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INSERT INTO `pdf_upload` VALUES (1,'2','Faunal Diversity of all Vertebrates (excluding Aves) of Himachal Pradesh ','Indu Sharma and Avtar Kaur Sidhu','1 INDU SHARMA.pdf','',1,'Himachal Pradesh, a mountainous state is located in the North Western Himalaya. Spiti Valley, Lingti plain of Lahaul of district Lahaul & Spiti and Pooh tehsil of District Kinnaur of the state comes under the Trans Himalayan Zone. It encompasses nearly 10.54% of the Himalayan land mass. Due to varied climatic conditions, forests and altitude (from 320 to 7,000 m asl), it harbours a diverse and unique faunal diversity. In this paper, an attempt has been made to document the vertebrate fauna (Pisces, Amphibian, Reptiles and Mammals) of the state of Himachal Pradesh as per the present studies and past literature. In present communication 81 Pisces species, 16 species of Amphibians, 55 species of Reptiles and 112 species of Mammals along with present status, distribution and conservation has been described in details. The various aspects viz. scientific evidences and perceptions, Trends and Impacts of Environment, Status of Research, Issues and gaps and Way Forward for the conservation mea','Vertebrates, Diversity, Conservation, Mountainous','Himachal Pradesh, a mountainous state is located in the North Western Himalaya. Spiti Valley, Lingti plain of Lahaul of district Lahaul & Spiti and Pooh tehsil of District Kinnaur of the state comes under the Trans Himalayan Zone. It encompasses nearly 10.54% of the Himalayan land mass. Due to varied climatic conditions, forests and altitude (from 320 to 7,000 m asl), it harbours a diverse and unique faunal diversity. In this paper, an attempt has been made to document the vertebrate fauna (Pisces, Amphibian, Reptiles and Mammals) of the state of Himachal Pradesh as per the present studies and past literature. In present communication 81 Pisces species, 16 species of Amphibians, 55 species of Reptiles and 112 species of Mammals along with present status, distribution and conservation has been described in details. The various aspects viz. scientific evidences and perceptions, Trends and Impacts of Environment, Status of Research, Issues and gaps and Way Forward for the conservation mea','-','Indu Sharma and Avtar Kaur Sidhu (2016). Faunal Diversity of all Vertebrates (excluding Aves) of Himachal Pradesh, Biological Forum â€“ An International Journal 8(1): 1-26.'),(2,'2','Use of Microsatellite Markers for Genetic Diversity Analysis of Olive Germplasm in the North of Iran','Ali Bahmani*, Mohammad-Reza Dadpour*, Asad Asadi-Abkenar**, Fariborz Zare-Nahandi*','2 ASAD ASADI-ABKENAR AND ALI BAHMANI.pdf','',1,'Olive (Olea europaea L.) is one of the subtropical fruit tree with remarkable economic importance. This study was conducted to evaluate the variation and inter-relationship of 31 olive genotypes including seven Iranian and 24 foreign genotypes collected in a germplasm using Simple Sequence Repeat (SSR) markers. In this research, 7 SSR primer pairs out of 17 SSRs were used for fingerprinting of the genotypes. Totally, 37 SSR polymorphic alleles were detected. Classification of genotypes based on UPGMA criterion located them in three major groups. In this study, Iranian cultivars and ecotypes of olive, clustered separately from Mediterranean cultivars. This is concluded that SSR markers could efficiently clarify the existent genetic variability in olive, and the identified genetic variability is somewhat in coincidence with the geographical distribution of olive genotypes.','Olive, Simple sequence repeat, similarity, cluster analysis ','Olive (Olea europaea L.) is one of the subtropical fruit tree with remarkable economic importance. This study was conducted to evaluate the variation and inter-relationship of 31 olive genotypes including seven Iranian and 24 foreign genotypes collected in a germplasm using Simple Sequence Repeat (SSR) markers. In this research, 7 SSR primer pairs out of 17 SSRs were used for fingerprinting of the genotypes. Totally, 37 SSR polymorphic alleles were detected. Classification of genotypes based on UPGMA criterion located them in three major groups. In this study, Iranian cultivars and ecotypes of olive, clustered separately from Mediterranean cultivars. This is concluded that SSR markers could efficiently clarify the existent genetic variability in olive, and the identified genetic variability is somewhat in coincidence with the geographical distribution of olive genotypes','-','Ali Bahmani, Mohammad-Reza Dadpour, Asad Asadi-Abkenar, Fariborz Zare-Nahandi (2016). Use of Microsatellite Markers for Genetic Diversity Analysis of Olive Germplasm in the North of Iran Biological Forum â€“ An International Journal 8(1): 27-31 '),(3,'2','MAT vector: a system for production and selection of marker free transgenic plants- A survey and summary ','Zouhreh Poudine*, Atefeh Galavi**, Mehrdad Asadian*** and Hassan Shahgholi****','3 HASSAN SHAHGHOLI.pdf','',1,'One of the most important transformation methods is the oncogenes (ipt, rol, iaaM/H ) of Agrobacterium which are used as a selectable markers. In MAT (Multi Auto Transformation) Vector System used the oncogenes of Agrobacterium to select transgenic plants. But there is a problem because the oncogenes cause abnormal phenotypes in the transgenic plants. Thus, the MAT vector with the site- specific recombination system R / RS to removed these genes (oncogenes) from transgenic plants after transformation and then produce of normal phenotype in transgenic plants. In this review article, we have evaluated the MAT vector system as a transformation method in plants to generate marker- free transgenic plants.','-','In conventional transformation systems selected marker genes are essential for the introduce of genes with high economic value to plants and they are very important for the selection of transgenic plants. For example, antibiotics or herbicide genes are selectable markers that they are required to select non-transgenic and transgenic cells. but often these markers leads to negative effects in transgenic or non- transgenic cells. For example, these genes are destroyed non- transgenic cells or may also have negative effects on the development of transgenic cells. Until now, after transformation many selected marker genes remained in transgenic plants. So this selection methods have two major disadvantages: 1. It reduces the ability of plant cells to proliferation and differentiation 2. The uncertainty of the amount of their negative effects on the environment. Recently, number of gene transformation systems are used to produce marker-free transgenic plants. One of these systems is MAT vec','-','Zouhreh Poudine, Atefeh Galavi, Mehrdad Asadian and Hassan Shahgholi (2016). MAT vector: a system for production and selection of marker free transgenic plants- A survey and summary, Biological Forum â€“ An International Journal ,8(1): 32-34. '),(4,'2','Screening fluorescent pseudomonads isolated from wheat rhizosphere for plant growth- promoting and salt tolerance properties ','Dariush Safari*, Fatemeh Jamali**, Hamid-Reza Nooryazdan*** and Fereshteh Bayat***','4 FATEMEH JAMALI.pdf','',1,'30 fluorescent pseudomonads were isolated from wheat rhizosphere in Bushehr province, Iran. Strains were screened for the key features of plant growth promotion including production of hydrogen cyanide and siderophore and inorganic phosphate solubilization under in vitro conditions. Then, superior strains were evaluated for production of indole acetic acid (IAA). Results revealed that 100% of isolates were able to produce siderophore, 74.44% produced hydrogen cyanide and 96.66% were capable of solubilizing inorganic phosphate. All superior PGPR strains evaluated for IAA production were able to produce the metabolite. 30 Pseudomonas strains isolated in this study, were evaluated for tolerance to salinity levels of 200, 400 and 600 mM sodium chloride (EC equivalent, respectively, 9/28, 3/47 and 2/61 ds/m). Results showed that all strains could tolerate 400 mM NaCl concentrations and had a weak growth at 600 mM (classified as semi-tolerant), but none of them could grow strongly on 600 mM ','Wheat, salt stress, siderophore, hydrogen cyanide, fluorescent pseudomonads','30 fluorescent pseudomonads were isolated from wheat rhizosphere in Bushehr province, Iran. Strains were screened for the key features of plant growth promotion including production of hydrogen cyanide and siderophore and inorganic phosphate solubilization under in vitro conditions. Then, superior strains were evaluated for production of indole acetic acid (IAA). Results revealed that 100% of isolates were able to produce siderophore, 74.44% produced hydrogen cyanide and 96.66% were capable of solubilizing inorganic phosphate. All superior PGPR strains evaluated for IAA production were able to produce the metabolite. 30 Pseudomonas strains isolated in this study, were evaluated for tolerance to salinity levels of 200, 400 and 600 mM sodium chloride (EC equivalent, respectively, 9/28, 3/47 and 2/61 ds/m). Results showed that all strains could tolerate 400 mM NaCl concentrations and had a weak growth at 600 mM (classified as semi-tolerant), but none of them could grow strongly on 600 mM ','-','Dariush Safari, Fatemeh Jamali, Hamid-Reza Nooryazdan and Fereshteh Bayat (2016) Screening fluorescent pseudomonads isolated from wheat rhizosphere for plant growth- promoting and salt tolerance properties Biological Forum â€“ An International Journal 8(1'),(5,'2','The Estimation of Qualitative Parameters of three Species of Grasses using Technology (NIR) ','Mohammad Javad Mahdavi* and Rahele Seifi**','5 MOHAMMAD JAVAD MAHDAVI.pdf','',1,'Improvement of the traits related to forage quality including Neutral Detergent Fiber (NDF), Acid Detergent Fiber (ADF), and CP in forage species has a significant impact in increasing livestock production. In breeding programs that the number of samples is occasionally high, the use of chemical methods is time-consuming and costly. For this reason, NIR technology has been introduced as a rapid and accurate method in estimating chemical composition of agricultural products. This research was aimed to investigate the possibility of using this technology in estimation of NDF, ADF, and CP in three species of grasses. A total of 45 samples of each species were selected during different phenological growth stages and from different vegetation types. CP was measured by Kjeldahl method and Van Soest method was applied to measure NDF and ADF. For NIR calibration, samples were divided into two categories so that a part was considered for calibration and the rest for evaluating the accuracy of N','forage value, crude protein, Acid Detergent Fiber, Neutral Detergent Fiber, near infrared reflectance spectroscopy (NIRS). ','Improvement of the traits related to forage quality including Neutral Detergent Fiber (NDF), Acid Detergent Fiber (ADF), and CP in forage species has a significant impact in increasing livestock production. In breeding programs that the number of samples is occasionally high, the use of chemical methods is time-consuming and costly. For this reason, NIR technology has been introduced as a rapid and accurate method in estimating chemical composition of agricultural products. This research was aimed to investigate the possibility of using this technology in estimation of NDF, ADF, and CP in three species of grasses. A total of 45 samples of each species were selected during different phenological growth stages and from different vegetation types. CP was measured by Kjeldahl method and Van Soest method was applied to measure NDF and ADF. For NIR calibration, samples were divided into two categories so that a part was considered for calibration and the rest for evaluating the accuracy of N','-','Mohammad Javad Mahdavi* and Rahele Seifi (2016). The Estimation of Qualitative Parameters of three Species of Grasses using Technology (NIR) , Biological Forum â€“ An International Journal 8(1): 43-53.'),(6,'2','Evaluation of resistance to seedling damping-off caused by Phytophthora drechsleri in cucumber cultivars under greenhouse conditions','Khadijeh Nazavari*, Fatemeh Jamali**, Fereshteh Bayat* and Mohammad Modarresi*','6 FATEMEH JAMALI.pdf','',1,'Resistance of greenhouse cucumber cultivars was assessed against damping-off caused by Phytophthora drechsleri in Persian Gulf University during 2014-15. Cucumber varieties showed different reactions to disease. Regarding death at 2-3 leaves stage, Barracuda was grouped as very sensitive with 95.87% seedling decay; Sultan, Aseal, Fenomeno, Storm, Number 1 and Kashmir with 77.77, 74.99, 74.99, 73.05, 72.21, 69.43% death respectively were sensitive and PS 547 with 60.83 percent death was semi-sensitive. In the 5-6 leaves stage, Barracuda, Sultan and Number 1 with respectively 71.66, 70.83, 65.41% death were susceptible, and PS 547, Kashmir, Storm, Aseal and Fenomeno with 59.59, 59.41, 55.27 , 55.08, 49.25% percent death, respectively, were moderately susceptible. During flowering stage, Barracuda with 63.28% death was susceptible, Number 1 with 44.22% death was moderately susceptible, Storm, Sultan, Kashmir, Aseal and Fenomeno with respectively 38.88, 29.72, 28.04, 27.77, 24.44% percent ','Cucumber, Damping-off, Phytophthora, Resistance, Soilborne ','Resistance of greenhouse cucumber cultivars was assessed against damping-off caused by Phytophthora drechsleri in Persian Gulf University during 2014-15. Cucumber varieties showed different reactions to disease. Regarding death at 2-3 leaves stage, Barracuda was grouped as very sensitive with 95.87% seedling decay; Sultan, Aseal, Fenomeno, Storm, Number 1 and Kashmir with 77.77, 74.99, 74.99, 73.05, 72.21, 69.43% death respectively were sensitive and PS 547 with 60.83 percent death was semi-sensitive. In the 5-6 leaves stage, Barracuda, Sultan and Number 1 with respectively 71.66, 70.83, 65.41% death were susceptible, and PS 547, Kashmir, Storm, Aseal and Fenomeno with 59.59, 59.41, 55.27 , 55.08, 49.25% percent death, respectively, were moderately susceptible. During flowering stage, Barracuda with 63.28% death was susceptible, Number 1 with 44.22% death was moderately susceptible, Storm, Sultan, Kashmir, Aseal and Fenomeno with respectively 38.88, 29.72, 28.04, 27.77, 24.44% percent ','-','Khadijeh Nazavari*, Fatemeh Jamali**, Fereshteh Bayat* and Mohammad Modarresi (2016). Evaluation of resistance to seedling damping-off caused by Phytophthora drechsleri in cucumber cultivars under greenhouse conditions , Biological Forum â€“ An Internatio'),(7,'2','Evaluation of drought stress effect in summer Safflower genotypes ','Behnam Tahmasebpour*, Omid Sofalian**, Hasan Dehghanian*** and Seyed Sajad Hoseini****','7 HASAN DEHGHANIAN.pdf','',1,'The development of safflower cultivation is very important for Iran to meet the country\'s demand for edible oil. Although, safflower is a native plant of Iran and has the advantage of good resistance to salt and drought stress, only limited research has been carried out to identify specific crop traits that contribute to this tolerance. This experiment aimed to evaluate the effect of drought stress on seed and oil yields, yield components, oil percentages and some agronomic characteristics of spring safflower genotypes. The experiment was, factorial using complete randomized block design with three replications; normal irrigation and water deficit stress at both the stem elongation and flowering stages using six genotypes. The results revealed that the flowering time was the most sensitive stage to water deficit. Analysis of variance showed high genetic diversity between the genotypes for the studied traits: genotypes 34069, K.H.64.68 and340779 had the highest averages of traits in nor','Drought stress, Oil and seed yield, Safflower, Tolerance indices','The development of safflower cultivation is very important for Iran to meet the country\'s demand for edible oil. Although, safflower is a native plant of Iran and has the advantage of good resistance to salt and drought stress, only limited research has been carried out to identify specific crop traits that contribute to this tolerance. This experiment aimed to evaluate the effect of drought stress on seed and oil yields, yield components, oil percentages and some agronomic characteristics of spring safflower genotypes. The experiment was, factorial using complete randomized block design with three replications; normal irrigation and water deficit stress at both the stem elongation and flowering stages using six genotypes. The results revealed that the flowering time was the most sensitive stage to water deficit. Analysis of variance showed high genetic diversity between the genotypes for the studied traits: genotypes 34069, K.H.64.68 and340779 had the highest averages of traits in nor','-','Behnam Tahmasebpour*, Omid Sofalian**, Hasan Dehghanian*** and Seyed Sajad Hoseini (2016). Evaluation of drought stress effect in summer Safflower genotypes , Biological Forum â€“ An International Journal 8(1): 61-66. '),(8,'2','Investigating the viscoelastic behavior of chickpea grain during process of Nokhodchi (roasted chickpea) production ','Reza Fellegari*, Hamid Reza Ghassemzade*, Mohammad Moghdam Vahed** and Ebrahim Ahmadi***','8 REZA FELLEGARI-1055.pdf','',1,'Roasted chickpea is one of the most important products of the city of Mamaghan, located in East of Azarbaijan province, and it has a significant role in this province employment. The roasted chickpea\'s production process includes the preparation of raw chickpeas, first heat treatment (FHT), second heat treatment (SHT), moisture treatment (MT) and roasted chickpea\'s preparation. Now the roasted chickpea\'s production is done manually. The mechanization process of producing this valuable product requires the investigation of viscoelastic behavior during the production phases. In this study, the chickpea\'s time-dependent mechanical behavior was investigated based on rheological theories. The results showed that the three-term model of Maxwell is the best choice to describe the viscoelastic behavior. For doing experiments, the texture analyzer device available in Bu-Ali Sina University was used. The results showed that from raw chickpea stage to FHT stage, modulus and stress relaxation time','stress relaxation, Maxell model, Mamghan, roasted chickpeas.','Roasted chickpea is one of the most important products of the city of Mamaghan, located in East of Azarbaijan province, and it has a significant role in this province employment. The roasted chickpea\'s production process includes the preparation of raw chickpeas, first heat treatment (FHT), second heat treatment (SHT), moisture treatment (MT) and roasted chickpea\'s preparation. Now the roasted chickpea\'s production is done manually. The mechanization process of producing this valuable product requires the investigation of viscoelastic behavior during the production phases. In this study, the chickpea\'s time-dependent mechanical behavior was investigated based on rheological theories. The results showed that the three-term model of Maxwell is the best choice to describe the viscoelastic behavior. For doing experiments, the texture analyzer device available in Bu-Ali Sina University was used. The results showed that from raw chickpea stage to FHT stage, modulus and stress relaxation time','-','Reza Fellegari*, Hamid Reza Ghassemzade*, Mohammad Moghdam Vahed** and Ebrahim Ahmadi (2016). Investigating the viscoelastic behavior of chickpea grain during process of Nokhodchi (roasted chickpea) production , Biological Forum â€“ An International Jour'),(9,'2','Study irrigation deficit and N fertilizer effect on reproductive components of henna ecotypes in Jiroft, Iran ','Hasan Sarhadi*, Jahanfar Daneshian**, Seyyed Azizollah Valadabadi***, Hosein Heidari Sharafabad****and Gholamreza Afsharmanesh*****','10 VAHIDEH SAMADIYAN 1061.pdf','',1,'Water deficit stress and N fertilizer effect on reproductive growth of henna ecotypes were studied in the split-split-plot form on the basis of a randomized complete block design with four replications in 2013-2014 growing season. The main, sub and sub-sub-plot were devoted to deficit irrigation (100, 75 and 50% of water requirement), N fertilizer (50, 100 and 150 kg/ha) and ecotypes (Bami, Boushehri and Roudbari), respectively. The highest seed number and1000-seed yield belonged to 50% of water requirement and water stress increasing (up to 50% of water requirement) resulted in a severe loss of seed yield at all fertilizer levels especially under 150 kg/ha. According to the results, full irrigation with 100 kg/ha of N had the greatest effect on improving reproductive growth of henna; In addition, it can be said that under water deficit conditions, higher N rates should be avoided because they did not absorb.','henna ecotypes, water deficit stress, nitrogen, seed yield, Lawsonia inermis','Water deficit stress and N fertilizer effect on reproductive growth of henna ecotypes were studied in the split-split-plot form on the basis of a randomized complete block design with four replications in 2013-2014 growing season. The main, sub and sub-sub-plot were devoted to deficit irrigation (100, 75 and 50% of water requirement), N fertilizer (50, 100 and 150 kg/ha) and ecotypes (Bami, Boushehri and Roudbari), respectively. The highest seed number and1000-seed yield belonged to 50% of water requirement and water stress increasing (up to 50% of water requirement) resulted in a severe loss of seed yield at all fertilizer levels especially under 150 kg/ha. According to the results, full irrigation with 100 kg/ha of N had the greatest effect on improving reproductive growth of henna; In addition, it can be said that under water deficit conditions, higher N rates should be avoided because they did not absorb.','-','Hasan Sarhadi*, Jahanfar Daneshian, Seyyed Azizollah Valadabadi, Hosein Heidari Sharafabad and Gholamreza Afsharmanesh (2016) . Study irrigation deficit and N fertilizer effect on reproductive components of henna ecotypes in Jiroft, Iran , Biological Foru'),(10,'2','Effects of Iron Sprays on Pb lead and Cadmium Cd Absorption by Ashtrees','Bahareh Vahedi*, Mohsen Kafi**, Ahmad Khalighi*** and Sepideh Kalateh Jari*****','11 BAHAREH VAHEDI 1058.pdf','',1,'Considering the importance of phytoremediation as an effective method in reducing environmental pollutants, especially heavy metals, an experiment using the split plot in time arrangement with three replications was conducted in this research to study the extent the two heavy metals lead and cadmium were absorbed by ash trees planted in the green space of our country. The experimental treatments included iron sulfate and iron chelate sprays and the control at three different sampling times (start of the growing season, end of the growing season, and the onset of leaf fall). According to the results, the highest lead concentration was observed in the iron sulfate treatment that, of course, was not significantly different from that of the iron chelate treatment. The maximum cadmium concentration belonged to the iron chelate treatment. The maximum cadmium concentration was observed in the treatment with iron chelate. In this treatment, the highest leaf chlorophyll a content was measured, ','Heavy metals, phytoremediation, chlorophyll, iron chelate, iron sulfate, lead, cadmium','Considering the importance of phytoremediation as an effective method in reducing environmental pollutants, especially heavy metals, an experiment using the split plot in time arrangement with three replications was conducted in this research to study the extent the two heavy metals lead and cadmium were absorbed by ash trees planted in the green space of our country. The experimental treatments included iron sulfate and iron chelate sprays and the control at three different sampling times (start of the growing season, end of the growing season, and the onset of leaf fall). According to the results, the highest lead concentration was observed in the iron sulfate treatment that, of course, was not significantly different from that of the iron chelate treatment. The maximum cadmium concentration belonged to the iron chelate treatment. The maximum cadmium concentration was observed in the treatment with iron chelate. In this treatment, the highest leaf chlorophyll a content was measured, ','-','Bahareh Vahedi*, Mohsen Kafi, Ahmad Khalighi and Sepideh Kalateh Jari (2016). Effects of Iron Sprays on Pb lead and Cadmium Cd Absorption by Ashtrees , Biological Forum â€“ An International Journal 8(1): 88-95.'),(11,'2','Effect of Six Weeks of Pilates Exercise on Balance in Elderly Women Aged over 60 years ','Dehghandar Homa* and Jamshidi Ali Ashraf**','12 DEHGHANDAR HOMA @EZADI.pdf','',1,'One of the most common physical problems among the elderly that occurs following some diseases or the aging process is falling. One of the major causes of falling is the loss of balance. The impact of physical activity and exercise on balance improvement has been investigated and proven in many studies. Methods: 30 women aged over 60 voluntarily participated in this study. The subjects were randomly divided into experimental and control groups. In this research, the effect of six weeks of Pilates exercise on balance in elderly women aged over 60 was studied. The subjects in both groups were asked to refrain from doing other exercises during the study. One day before the beginning and after the end of exercises, static balance pretest (Biodex Balance Test) with open eye and dynamic balance (timed up and go (TUG) test) were performed. Independent and paired t-test, Wilcoxon marked ranks, and Mann-Whitney U-test were used for comparing changes. Calculations were performed at a significanc','Pilates Exercise, Elderly, Dynamic balance','One of the most common physical problems among the elderly that occurs following some diseases or the aging process is falling. One of the major causes of falling is the loss of balance. The impact of physical activity and exercise on balance improvement has been investigated and proven in many studies. Methods: 30 women aged over 60 voluntarily participated in this study. The subjects were randomly divided into experimental and control groups. In this research, the effect of six weeks of Pilates exercise on balance in elderly women aged over 60 was studied. The subjects in both groups were asked to refrain from doing other exercises during the study. One day before the beginning and after the end of exercises, static balance pretest (Biodex Balance Test) with open eye and dynamic balance (timed up and go (TUG) test) were performed. Independent and paired t-test, Wilcoxon marked ranks, and Mann-Whitney U-test were used for comparing changes. Calculations were performed at a significanc','-','Dehghandar Homa and Jamshidi Ali Ashraf (2016). Effect of Six Weeks of Pilates Exercise on Balance in Elderly Women Aged over 60 years , Biological Forum â€“ An International Journal 8(1): 96-100.'),(12,'2','Theoretical study of structure thermodynamic properties Caffeic acid as powerful antioxidants ','Masoumeh Rajati Qazvini*, Leila Pishkar** and Dariush Robati**','13 LEILA PISHKAR@EZADI.pdf','',1,'Analysis of caffeic acid a phenolic derived with well known antioxidant properties, was carried out by ab initio calculations, at the density functional theory (DFT) level. A complete geometry optimization was carried out for caffeic acid, in order to obtain the geometries and relative energies of the molecule.DFT calculations were performed at the B3LYP, B1LYP, B3P86, B3PW91, LSDA and HF methods With STO-3G, 3-21G* and 6-31G* basis set on the caffeic acid compound with Gaussian 09 program. The adsorption thermodynamic parameters (Î”G0, Î”H0, Î”E0, Î”zero-point energy and S0) were calculated which showed an endothermic adsorption process. Calculated are accomplished at 298 K. The structures, energetic and thermodynamic properties will be discussed.','Caffeic acid, Ab initio calculations, Density functional theory, Thermodynamic parameters','Analysis of caffeic acid a phenolic derived with well known antioxidant properties, was carried out by ab initio calculations, at the density functional theory (DFT) level. A complete geometry optimization was carried out for caffeic acid, in order to obtain the geometries and relative energies of the molecule.DFT calculations were performed at the B3LYP, B1LYP, B3P86, B3PW91, LSDA and HF methods With STO-3G, 3-21G* and 6-31G* basis set on the caffeic acid compound with Gaussian 09 program. The adsorption thermodynamic parameters (Î”G0, Î”H0, Î”E0, Î”zero-point energy and S0) were calculated which showed an endothermic adsorption process. Calculated are accomplished at 298 K. The structures, energetic and thermodynamic properties will be discussed.','-','Masoumeh Rajati Qazvini, Leila Pishkar and Dariush Robati (2016). Theoretical study of structure thermodynamic properties Caffeic acid as powerful antioxidants , Biological Forum â€“ An International Journal 8(1): 101-107.'),(13,'2','Functional Asymmetry of Lower Limbs in Female Elite Volleyball Players during Jumping - landing ','Doroudian Zohreh* and Jamshidi Ali Ashraf**','15 DOROUDIAN ZOHREH @EZADI.pdf','',1,'Introduction: kinetic symmetry of joints is effective in quality of implementing sport techniques and injury prevention. This issue is more important in lower limbs. The present study aimed to investigate symmetry in biomechanical and kinetic variables in lower limbs of elite female volleyball players during jumping - landing. The statistical population consisted of 12 female elite volleyball players of Iranian national team. Ankle, knee and thigh joint torques were measured using movement analysis system (camera and force plates) and calculated using inverse dynamics method. For this purpose, movement analysis system data and force plate data were integrated with anthropometric data and joint torques were estimated using a biomechanical model. The two legs were compared using paired t-test. Asymmetry was calculated using the following formula: the difference between superior leg and inferior leg divided by superior leg multiplied by 100. Maximum values of kinetic parameters (ankle, kn','kinetic symmetry, jumping-landing, lower limbs, volleyball','The graphs of minimum and maximum difference in torques between superior and inferior organs in ankle, knee and thigh joints in eccentric and concentric phases and initial contact with the ground and force absorption. Maximum values of kinetic parameters (ankle, knee and thigh torques) represent functional asymmetry of lower limbs of elite female volleyball players during jumping-landing. However, this issue in minimum values shows functional asymmetry of lower limbs in volleyball players mostly in middle phases.\r\nAccording to the study and the information obtained from bodybuilding coach and laboratory results, asymmetry in torques were due to following reasons: Players of women\'s Iranian national volleyball team were not at peak of general physical fitness. Thus, professional bodybuilding could not be performed for symmetry in leg muscular strength. Bodybuilding techniques were performed for both legs simultaneously. However, bodybuilding techniques should be singularly performed for','-','Doroudian Zohreh* and Jamshidi Ali Ashraf (2016). Functional Asymmetry of Lower Limbs in Female Elite Volleyball Players during Jumping - landing , Biological Forum â€“ An International Journal 8(1): 113-117.'),(14,'2','The Effect of a Short-term Pilates Exercise Period on Static Balance in Trainable Intellectually Disabled Boy Children ','Eizi Elahe*, Sokhanguei Yahya** and Nikaiin Zinat*','16 SOKHANGUEI YAHYA @EZADI.pdf','',1,'People with intellectual disability have special physiological and anatomic qualities. Generally, they possess a weaker physical and motor status as compared to their normal peer. These individuals tend to stay still and immotile. Balance is a key aspect of movement. In this study, the quasi-dynamic balance of trainable intellectually disabled boy children was examined. \r\nFirst, participants\' IQ was measured. Their Atlanto-Axial joint stability was reassured. Then, they were divided into two test and control groups. Stork test was carried out as a pretest. A short-term Pilates training was administered. Resulting data was analyzed using Kolmogorov-Smirnov test, as well as correlated and independent t-test. There was a significant difference between all statistic balance indices before and after intervention in the test group (p<0.000). Yet, no significant difference was seen in any indices of the control group (p<0.189). A significant difference was also observed between two groups re','Intellectual Disability, Static Balance, Stork Test','Results indicate the effect of a period of Pialtes exercises on the static balance of children with trainable intellectual disability. No change was seen in the participants\' static balance in control group. Pilates exercise affected the static balance in test group after a period of training. Again, there was a significant difference between the test and control groups\' static balance after a period of Pilates exercise. ','-','Eizi Elahe*, Sokhanguei Yahya** and Nikaiin Zinat (2016). The Effect of a Short-term Pilates Exercise Period on Static Balance in Trainable Intellectually Disabled Boy Children , Biological Forum â€“ An International Journal 8(1): 118-122.'),(15,'2','Investigation of antimicrobial activity of Nano sized particles of oxindoles and compression their activity with tetracycline and gentamic in drugs ','Somayeh Makarem*, Leila Pishkar** and Taheri Saba***','17 SOMAYEH MAKAREM @EZADI.pdf','',1,'We reported clean one-pot technique for the preparation of nano particles of oxindole derivatives by using isatins and indoles in the presence of constant current as catalyzer. The product was characterized after purification using IR, 1H NMR, 13C NMR, MS, and SEM. the synthesized compounds have been screened for their antibacterial activities Some of nano particles of oxindole were showed antimicrobial activities against some gram positive and negative bacteriaâ€™s.','Oxindoles, Constant Current, Antimicrobial, Nanoparticles','at the present time, growing resistance of pathogens against anti-bacterial compounds used is a common and vital problem, which shows obviously that research on new com-pounds against these pathogens is needed. We synthesized 3 substituted Nano sized particles of oxindoles and screened their antimicrobial activities, nanoparticles of 3a-3c display antimicrobial activities against some gram positive and negative bacteriaâ€™s and compound 3a shows antimicrobial activities better than Tetracycline and Gentamicin.','-','Somayeh Makarem*, Leila Pishkar** and Taheri Saba (2016). Investigation of antimicrobial activity of Nano sized particles of oxindoles and compression their activity with tetracycline and gentamic in drugs , Biological Forum â€“ An International Journal 8'),(16,'2','The study of antibacterial properties of NiO thin film using Sol-gel synthesis ','Monir Doudi* and Nasrin Talebian**','18 MONIR DOUDI.pdf','',1,'Nickel oxide thin film of various preferred orientations was deposited using sol-gel method using solvents including methanol. The resulting film was analyzed using X-ray diffraction (XRD), scanning electron microscopy (SEM), contact angle measurement, and ultraviolet spectroscopy (UV-vis). Antibacterial activities of nickel oxide-based film against gram-negative bacteria (Escherichia coli) has been evaluated using drop test method under UV light irradiation (photocatalyst) and dark conditions (catalytic). The antimicrobial activity of the film was determined through counting the number of colonies on each plate which was reported as colony-forming unit (CFU) per milliliter. Results showed that NiO has high photocatalyst and catalytic activation efficiency against Escherichia coli.','antibacterial properties, scanning electron microscopy (SEM), Sol-gel synthesis, UV light irradiation, colony-forming unit (CFU) ','Nickel oxide thin film of various preferred orientations was deposited using sol-gel method using solvents including methanol. The resulting film was analyzed using X-ray diffraction (XRD), scanning electron microscopy (SEM), contact angle measurement, and ultraviolet spectroscopy (UV-vis). Antibacterial activities of nickel oxide-based film against gram-negative bacteria (Escherichia coli) has been evaluated using drop test method under UV light irradiation (photocatalyst) and dark conditions (catalytic). The antimicrobial activity of the film was determined through counting the number of colonies on each plate which was reported as colony-forming unit (CFU) per milliliter. Results showed that NiO has high photocatalyst and catalytic activation efficiency against Escherichia coli.','-','Monir Doudi* and Nasrin Talebian (2016). The study of antibacterial properties of NiO thin film using Sol-gel synthesis , Biological Forum â€“ An International Journal 8(1): 127-131.'),(17,'2','Factor analysis of Phonological and Morphological Traits in Common bean (Phaseolus vulgaris L.) ','Akbar Abdollahi*, Behnam Tahmasebpour** and Hasan Dehghanian***','19 HASAN DEHGHANIAN 1054.pdf','',1,'To evaluate and classify phonological and morphological traits of 64 Common bean (Phaseolus vulgaris L.) genotypes, a triple lattice experiment was conducted at the research farm of Espiran in 2014. Each plot consisted 5 rows, 3 m length with row spacing of 30 cm and within row spacing of 12.5 cm. 24 seeds were seeded in each row. Fertilizer applications, weed control and other agricultural practices were done on 10 randomly selected plants of each plot. Factor analysis based on principal component method revealed four important factors which accounted for 74% of the total variation. The eigenvalues of these four factors were 4.42, 3.11, 1.74 and 1.17, respectively. The first factor which accounted for32% of the variation was related with days to maturity, number of primary branches, mean number of seeds/pod, seed thickness average and seed yield. This factor was regarded as yield primary factor. All variable in factor 1, unless days to maturity had positive loadings. The second factor','Common bean, Factor analysis, Morphological traits, Phonological traits.','To evaluate and classify phonological and morphological traits of 64 Common bean (Phaseolus vulgaris L.) genotypes, a triple lattice experiment was conducted at the research farm of Espiran in 2014. Each plot consisted 5 rows, 3 m length with row spacing of 30 cm and within row spacing of 12.5 cm. 24 seeds were seeded in each row. Fertilizer applications, weed control and other agricultural practices were done on 10 randomly selected plants of each plot. Factor analysis based on principal component method revealed four important factors which accounted for 74% of the total variation. The eigenvalues of these four factors were 4.42, 3.11, 1.74 and 1.17, respectively. The first factor which accounted for32% of the variation was related with days to maturity, number of primary branches, mean number of seeds/pod, seed thickness average and seed yield. This factor was regarded as yield primary factor. All variable in factor 1, unless days to maturity had positive loadings. The second factor','-','Akbar Abdollahi, Behnam Tahmasebpour and Hasan Dehghanian (2016) .Factor analysis of Phonological and Morphological Traits in Common bean (Phaseolus vulgaris L.) , Biological Forum â€“ An International Journal 8(1): 132-134. '),(18,'2','Comparative study of Rosa damascenes Mill. and R. Gallica micro-propagation','Mohammad Omidi, Abbas Yadollahi and Malihe Eftekhari','20 ABBAS YADOLLAHI1.pdf','',1,'Roses are an important commercial cut flower with a wide range of varieties throughout the world. Due to its economic value, this study aimed to optimize the in vitro propagation protocol of three rose cultivars i.e. two (Kashan and Kazanlik) from Rosa damascene Mill. and one (Tuscany superb) from R. gallica by comparing the micro-propagation stages of the musing nodal explants. Using nano-silver in the medium with concentrations of 0, 25, 50 and 75 Âµmol in a completely randomized design. Result showed that the quality of Kashan cultivar explant increased while it had adverse effect on the other cultivars. The results obviously showed that liquid medium containing 1.5 mg1-1 6-benzylaminopurine (BAP) affected proliferation depending on rose cultivar. Modified Murashige and Skoog (1962) (MS) medium fortified with 2.0 mg l-1 (BAP) and 0.2mg1-1 indole-3-butyric acid (IBA) gave optimal shoot proliferation. Micro shoots from BAP induced cultures could be rooted easily on indole-3-butyric ac','Damask rose, R. gallica, micro-propagation, in vitro rooting, and liquid medium','Roses are an important commercial cut flower with a wide range of varieties throughout the world. Due to its economic value, this study aimed to optimize the in vitro propagation protocol of three rose cultivars i.e. two (Kashan and Kazanlik) from Rosa damascene Mill. and one (Tuscany superb) from R. gallica by comparing the micro-propagation stages of the musing nodal explants. Using nano-silver in the medium with concentrations of 0, 25, 50 and 75 Âµmol in a completely randomized design. Result showed that the quality of Kashan cultivar explant increased while it had adverse effect on the other cultivars. The results obviously showed that liquid medium containing 1.5 mg1-1 6-benzylaminopurine (BAP) affected proliferation depending on rose cultivar. Modified Murashige and Skoog (1962) (MS) medium fortified with 2.0 mg l-1 (BAP) and 0.2mg1-1 indole-3-butyric acid (IBA) gave optimal shoot proliferation. Micro shoots from BAP induced cultures could be rooted easily on indole-3-butyric ac','-','Mohammad Omidi, Abbas Yadollahi and Malihe Eftekhari (2016) . Comparative study of Rosa damascenes Mill. and R. Gallica micro-propagation , Biological Forum â€“ An International Journal 8(1): 135-145.'),(19,'2','Identification of gene (s) controlling grain yield and some morphological traits in bread wheat under water deficit condition using SSR markers ','Yousef Mohammadi *, Seyyed Abolghasem Mohammadi*, Mohammad Moghadam*And Mozaffar Rustaei**','21 YOUSEF MOHAMMADI Identification of gene (s) controlling grain yield and some morphological traits in bread wheat under water deficit condition using SSR markers.pdf','',1,'Drought is the most important abiotic stress affecting production of wheat in the world. The objective of this research was Identification of QTL for grain yield and some morphological traits and determination of gene function of each QTL and its share in determining the phenotypic trait variance. To identify loci controlling traits related with drought tolerance in wheat, 142 and 121 recombinant inbred line were derived from a cross between Azar2 (drought tolerant) and 87Zhong291 varieties were evaluated under rainfed and supplementary irrigation. Characteristics measured were as follows: grain yield, plant height, spike length, flag leaf length, flag leaf width, second leaf length and second leaf width. Parental polymorphism was assessed using SSR and ISSR. 24 SSR and 16 ISSR polymorphic markers were used to screen population. Linkage analysis assigned 40 polymorphic markers in population map consisted of 45 SSR and AFLP markers. Transgressive segregation was observed for all the stu','Composite interval mapping, Drought, Quantitative trait locus, Simple sequence repeats, Wheat','Drought is the most important abiotic stress affecting production of wheat in the world. The objective of this research was Identification of QTL for grain yield and some morphological traits and determination of gene function of each QTL and its share in determining the phenotypic trait variance. To identify loci controlling traits related with drought tolerance in wheat, 142 and 121 recombinant inbred line were derived from a cross between Azar2 (drought tolerant) and 87Zhong291 varieties were evaluated under rainfed and supplementary irrigation. Characteristics measured were as follows: grain yield, plant height, spike length, flag leaf length, flag leaf width, second leaf length and second leaf width. Parental polymorphism was assessed using SSR and ISSR. 24 SSR and 16 ISSR polymorphic markers were used to screen population. Linkage analysis assigned 40 polymorphic markers in population map consisted of 45 SSR and AFLP markers. Transgressive segregation was observed for all the stu','-','Yousef Mohammadi *, Seyyed Abolghasem Mohammadi*, Mohammad Moghadam*And Mozaffar Rustaei (2016). Identification of gene (s) controlling grain yield and some morphological traits in bread wheat under water deficit condition using SSR markers , Biological F'),(20,'2','Changes in yield and yield components of two sweet basil cultivars in response to different intercropping patterns with corn ','Hamed Mabudi Bilasvar*, Saeid Zehtab Salmasi* and Hossein Janmohammadi**','22 HAMED MABUDI BILASVAR Changes in yield and yield components of two sweet basil cultivars in response to different intercropping patterns with corn.pdf','',1,'An experiments were carried out based on randomized complete blocks design with three replications in 2014 and 2015, to investigate the influence of different intercropping patterns between sweet basil and corn plants on yield and yield components of sweet basil cultivars. The treatments were sweet basil cultivars sole cropping (40 plants m-2) and the additive intercropping of sweet basil cultivars + corn (20 + 8, 30 + 8 and 40 + 8 plants m-2). Results revealed that number of branches and grains per plant, grain and biological yield in both sweet basil mubarake and Italian large leaf cultivars were decreased with increasing this plants density in intercropping with corn. However, in both mubarake and Italian large leaf cultivars grain weight and harvest index were improved in intercropping with corn plants. Number of secondary branches, number of grain and yield of Mubarake cultivar were significantly more than that of Italian large leaf cultivar. ','corn, grain weight, intercropping patterns, sweet basil, yield ','An experiments were carried out based on randomized complete blocks design with three replications in 2014 and 2015, to investigate the influence of different intercropping patterns between sweet basil and corn plants on yield and yield components of sweet basil cultivars. The treatments were sweet basil cultivars sole cropping (40 plants m-2) and the additive intercropping of sweet basil cultivars + corn (20 + 8, 30 + 8 and 40 + 8 plants m-2). Results revealed that number of branches and grains per plant, grain and biological yield in both sweet basil mubarake and Italian large leaf cultivars were decreased with increasing this plants density in intercropping with corn. However, in both mubarake and Italian large leaf cultivars grain weight and harvest index were improved in intercropping with corn plants. Number of secondary branches, number of grain and yield of Mubarake cultivar were significantly more than that of Italian large leaf cultivar. ','-','Hamed Mabudi Bilasvar*, Saeid Zehtab Salmasi* and Hossein Janmohammadi (2016). Changes in yield and yield components of two sweet basil cultivars in response to different intercropping patterns with corn , Biological Forum â€“ An International Journal 8('),(21,'2','Effect of Dynamic Stretch and Continuous Ultrasound Wave of Achilles Tendon and Quadriceps Tendon on the Power and Flexibility of Male Footballers ','Alireza Azmand*, Aliashraf Jamshidi Khorneh** and Mohammad Khaleghifar***','23 ALIREZA AZMAND1.pdf','',1,'The Effect of Dynamic Stretching and Continuous Ultrasound on Achilles Tendon and Quadriceps Tendon on Power and Flexibility in Male Soccer Players. Introduction: The importance of appropriate physical fitness prior to sports competitions is clear for sport and healthcare Specialists. The importance of athletic Skill performance has a specific role in achieving best results with successful achievement and also to prevent imposing economic defaults in Sport through promoting the Physiological and Biomechanical parameters. Aims: The current study is a conjoined research from Rehabilitation and sport sciences fields regards using certain medical modalities and specific planned programs on some Physical characteristics in athletes in order to record their practical results and effects on some specific performances which are effective in competitions. Moreover in this study we want to make these effects and changes to be a reliable guideline to professional performances in professional tour','Dynamic Stretching, Continuous ultrasound, Achilles tendon, Quadriceps tendon, power, flexibility, Adult soccer players','What comes from the research and field content of the present study reflects the fact that there is no doubt the effect of exercise protocols in exercise science, what science and the laws and rules of exercise physiology and biomechanics of sport is proven and undeniable no beneficial effect on the implementation of professional skills in the fields of performance. What continuous wave ultrasound intervention leaves on structures such as muscle contractility, tendons and ligaments of the joint motion of range and flexibility is effective and useful in performance. The fact that why it has not put positive impact requires more studies about the mechanism that should be a better output power transmission actuator arm muscle and muscle to muscle junction to improve and optimize energy efficiency by spending less energy and do a better job done. Why continuous wave ultrasound is applied to the two tendons with a significant increase was seen in the samples under study thought the team mig','-','Alireza Azmand, Aliashraf Jamshidi Khorneh and Mohammad Khaleghifar (2016) . Effect of Dynamic Stretch and Continuous Ultrasound Wave of Achilles Tendon and Quadriceps Tendon on the Power and Flexibility of Male Footballers , Biological Forum â€“ An Inter'),(22,'2','Strategies to Use Network Marketing in Sports Businesses ','Golchin Elnaz and Ghasemalipour Hassan','24 GOLCHIN ELNAZ.pdf','',1,'Sports marketing knowledge is a critical component of sports organizations and institutions. Network marketing as a marketing practice has transformed the sports industry and largely affected economies of different countries. The present study aimed to develop useful strategies to apply network marketing in sports businesses. For this purpose, qualitative method was used to collect the required data through interviews with scientific experts, sports business experts and network marketing experts. Then, 12 interviews were performed using theoretical sampling method. Then, multiple effective signals in network marketing in sports businesses were identified according to grounded theory method and open coding process. These signals were clustered in 12 categories as follows: promoting culture, the nature of network marketing, economic factors, structure, norm, success factors, training, charisma, barriers to activity, personal barriers, wrong views and sport in network marketing. Then, ide','marketing, sports, sports marketing, network marketing','Network marketing system can transform domestic economy like increased production, turnover, reduced inflation, employment and evolution of sports marketing. In the following, the results of some studies conducted by different academics that were consistent with the results of this study are cited. Moradi et al. (2013) published an article entitled as a comparative study of network marketing and pyramid companies from the perspective of Shiite jurists and showed that network marketing thrives Islamic economics. Atarzadeh et al. (2013) published an article entitled as network marketing in criminal law and jurisdiction in Iran and showed that network marketing can be economically beneficial. Meanwhile, the industry can increase employment and solve the problem of unemployment by creating new job opportunities. Azizi et al. (2011) published an article entitled as a comparative study of network marketing and pyramid structures and showed that this type of marketing has positive effects amo','-','Golchin Elnaz and Ghasemalipour Hassan (2016). Strategies to Use Network Marketing in Sports Businesses , Biological Forum â€“ An International Journal 8(1): 165-170.'),(23,'2','The prevalence of malformations crooked neck, head forward of the female students in Tehran District 5 elementary school year 93-94 ','Haidari Elaheh*, Behboudi Tabrizi Laleh* and Eizadi Mojtaba**','25 BEHBOUDI TABRIZI LALEH.pdf','',1,'Background: Postural abnormalities, especially in children and adolescents are on the rise. Purpose: From this study, the prevalence of skeletal malformations primary female students in Tehran District 5 elementary school year 93-94. Materials and Methods: The population of the study students girls 7 to 13 years 5 area in Tehran that the Formed, for example 700 female students as subjects in this study were available. The direct observation method was used to evaluate abnormalities and with use of And New York test, grid, plumb line to check malformations crooked neck, head forward. To analyze the data, descriptive and inferential statistical methods were used. Descriptive statistics for the index of central tendency (mean) and dispersion (standard deviation) and the chi-square test for comparison of the level of significance (p?0 / 05) used. Results: The results showed that 10.6 percent complication crooked neck and 13% head forward. Conclusion: According to the results of this study,','Postural abnormalities, Skeletal malformation, Crooked neck','Background: Postural abnormalities, especially in children and adolescents are on the rise. Purpose: From this study, the prevalence of skeletal malformations primary female students in Tehran District 5 elementary school year 93-94. Materials and Methods: The population of the study students girls 7 to 13 years 5 area in Tehran that the Formed, for example 700 female students as subjects in this study were available. The direct observation method was used to evaluate abnormalities and with use of And New York test, grid, plumb line to check malformations crooked neck, head forward. To analyze the data, descriptive and inferential statistical methods were used. Descriptive statistics for the index of central tendency (mean) and dispersion (standard deviation) and the chi-square test for comparison of the level of significance (p?0 / 05) used. Results: The results showed that 10.6 percent complication crooked neck and 13% head forward. Conclusion: According to the results of this study,','-','Haidari Elaheh, Behboudi Tabrizi Laleh and Eizadi Mojtaba (2016). The prevalence of malformations crooked neck, head forward of the female students in Tehran District 5 elementary school year 93-94 , Biological Forum â€“ An International Journal 8(1): 17'),(24,'2','Psychosocial Impact of 6 Weeks of Kegel Exercise on Female MS (Multiple Sclerosis) with Urinary Incontinence (Case Study: Khuzestan Province) ','Mobali Fatemeh, Sokhanguei Yahya and Afsharmand Zohreh','26 MOBALI FATEMEH.pdf','',1,'Aim and Background: incontinence affects various aspects of daily life of patients with Multiple sclerosis and has adverse effects on life quality of these patients. The present study aimed to evaluate the impact of 6 weeks of Kegel exercises on incontinence of female patients with Multiple sclerosis in Khuzestan province. The present study is applied, semi-empirical and control and experiment group. The sample consists of 19 patients with Multiple sclerosis with incontinence, member of MS association in Khuzestan province. The samples met the criteria and were selected by convenient sampling method and exercise group patients performed Kegel exercises for 6 weeks. Before and after six weeks of exercises, Incontinence evaluation was evaluated by IQOL (Incontinence quality of life) questionnaire. The collected data were analyzed by SPSS software, version 16 and descriptive statistical tests, Shapiro wilk test and covariance test. The evaluation of study findings showed the improvement o','Kegel exercises, Incontinence, Multiple sclerosis','According to the results of the present study and other studies presented in this paper, Kegel exercises can improve the status of urinary incontinence in MS patients. Improvement in the status of urinary incontinence in these patients can promote the factors of quality of life which include behavioral restriction, psychosocial effects, and social turmoil. Therefore, Kegel exercises, in addition to drug therapies, improve the general health of MS patients and reduce their common stresses. What is certain is that any training program should be based on patient\'s needs and also minimize the possible dangers. Kegel exercises, due to their static and dynamic states, have these features. Hence, MS patients can be confidently provided with the results of the present study. This will lead to increased participation of patients in social activities, improved psychological status of patients, and reduced prevalence of senility and depression among them.','-','Mobali Fatemeh, Sokhanguei Yahya and Afsharmand Zohreh (2016). Psychosocial Impact of 6 Weeks of Kegel Exercise on Female MS (Multiple Sclerosis) with Urinary Incontinence (Case Study: Khuzestan Province) . Biological Forum â€“ An International Journal 8('),(25,'2','Penaeid and Palaemonid Prawns of Godavari Estuary, Andhra Pradesh with Some New Records ','Shibananda Rath*, Malay K. Dev Roy** and Biswatosh Ghosh***','27 SHIBANANDA RATH 1076.pdf','',1,'A consolidated check-list of 49 species of prawns of the Godavari estuary, Andhra Pradesh has been prepared based on the present study and available literatures. In the present study a total 19 species of penaeid and palaemonid prawns representing 9 genera and 2 families are recorded. Four species of penaeid prawns, viz., Melicertus canaliculatus, Metapenaeus ensis, Metapenaeus lysianassa, Mierspenaeopsis sculptilis and two species of palaemonid prawns, viz., Macrobrachium banjare and Macrobrachium equidens are reported here for the first time from the estuary. A key to the identification of penaeid and palaemonid prawns is provided. ','Alpheid, Palaemonid, Penaeid, Sergestid, Solenocerid.','A consolidated check-list of 49 species of prawns of the Godavari estuary, Andhra Pradesh has been prepared based on the present study and available literatures. In the present study a total 19 species of penaeid and palaemonid prawns representing 9 genera and 2 families are recorded. Four species of penaeid prawns, viz., Melicertus canaliculatus, Metapenaeus ensis, Metapenaeus lysianassa, Mierspenaeopsis sculptilis and two species of palaemonid prawns, viz., Macrobrachium banjare and Macrobrachium equidens are reported here for the first time from the estuary. A key to the identification of penaeid and palaemonid prawns is provided. ','-','Shibananda Rath*, Malay K. Dev Roy** and Biswatosh Ghosh (2016). Penaeid and Palaemonid Prawns of Godavari Estuary, Andhra Pradesh with Some New Records , Biological Forum â€“ An International Journal 8(1): 179-189.'),(26,'2','Assessing Soil surface Salinity with Basic pixel Data Sensor TM ','Mohammad Zeinali*, Ali Asghar Jaafarzadeh**, Farzin Shahbazi***, Shahin Oustan*** and Khalil Valizadeh Kamran****','28 MOHAMMAD ZEINALI.pdf','',1,'Soil salinity and salinization of lands, as one of the main problems of agriculture, has paramount importance and can be avoided with proper understanding of its progress. This is the first step in identifying areas of salt and salt mapping in these soils. With the development of remote sensing technology and efficient use of satellite imaging, this study compared the salinity maps produced by a variety of classification image algorithms (Maximum likelihood, Minimum distance and Parallelepiped) by Land sat 5 TM satellite data in the East of Khoy. In this study, 269soil samples were analyzed and the results obtained were implemented on TM image. For initial identification, topography maps, ENVI 4.8 software and satellite image processing were used but to increase the accuracy, geometric correction was performed with specific locations using GPS. The results indicate the existence of a correlation between bands 1, 4 and 5TMimage with soil salinity data and classification algorithms, usin','Pixel-based, Classification Algorithm, Salinity, TM Sensor, Khoy.','Soil salinity and salinization of lands, as one of the main problems of agriculture, has paramount importance and can be avoided with proper understanding of its progress. This is the first step in identifying areas of salt and salt mapping in these soils. With the development of remote sensing technology and efficient use of satellite imaging, this study compared the salinity maps produced by a variety of classification image algorithms (Maximum likelihood, Minimum distance and Parallelepiped) by Land sat 5 TM satellite data in the East of Khoy. In this study, 269soil samples were analyzed and the results obtained were implemented on TM image. For initial identification, topography maps, ENVI 4.8 software and satellite image processing were used but to increase the accuracy, geometric correction was performed with specific locations using GPS. The results indicate the existence of a correlation between bands 1, 4 and 5TMimage with soil salinity data and classification algorithms, usin','-','Mohammad Zeinali*, Ali Asghar Jaafarzadeh, Farzin Shahbazi, Shahin Oustan and Khalil Valizadeh Kamran (2016). Assessing Soil surface Salinity with Basic pixel Data Sensor TM , Biological Forum â€“ An International Journal 8(1): 190-198.'),(27,'2','Sulfur application effect on pH measurement of wheat rhizosphere in calcareous soils','Shafagh Vali Shariat Panahi*, Farhad Moshiri** and Mohammad Reza Ardakani*','29 FARHAD MOSHIRI 1078A.pdf','',1,'The experiment was carried out in factorial form and unbalanced randomized complete block design with three replications under greenhouse conditions at Soil and Water Research Institute. The variables included three types of soil sample (Sarvestan district (Fars Province), Darin Mianeh (East Azerbaijan Province) and Esfarayen desert (North Khorasan Province)) and sulfur levels (0, 1000 and 5000 kg/ha). Each soil sample was treated with different proportions of thiobacillus bacteria and the seeds of Alvand cultivar (the best cultivar of wheat) were planted in each rhizobox (Root Box). The results indicated that sulfur application had significant effect not only on adjusting the amount of soil pH (P<0.01) but also on the amount of sulfate and shoot dry weight (Î±â‰¤0.05). The maximum shoot dry weight and the minimum root dry weight of the plant belonged to the soil of Esferayen desert. By sulfur increasing, no significant change was observed in the shoot sulfur amount in the soil of Dari','oxidation, wheat cultivar, soil acidity, sulfur, rhizosphere','The experiment was carried out in factorial form and unbalanced randomized complete block design with three replications under greenhouse conditions at Soil and Water Research Institute. The variables included three types of soil sample (Sarvestan district (Fars Province), Darin Mianeh (East Azerbaijan Province) and Esfarayen desert (North Khorasan Province)) and sulfur levels (0, 1000 and 5000 kg/ha). Each soil sample was treated with different proportions of thiobacillus bacteria and the seeds of Alvand cultivar (the best cultivar of wheat) were planted in each rhizobox (Root Box). The results indicated that sulfur application had significant effect not only on adjusting the amount of soil pH (P<0.01) but also on the amount of sulfate and shoot dry weight (Î±â‰¤0.05). The maximum shoot dry weight and the minimum root dry weight of the plant belonged to the soil of Esferayen desert. By sulfur increasing, no significant change was observed in the shoot sulfur amount in the soil of Dari','-','Shafagh Vali Shariat Panahi*, Farhad Moshiri** and Mohammad Reza Ardakani (2016) . Sulfur application effect on pH measurement of wheat rhizosphere in calcareous soils , Biological Forum â€“ An International Journal 8(1): 199-203.'),(28,'2','Permanence of Fusarium graminearum, the cause agent of Fusarium head blight (FHB) ','Saeid Rokni* and Mohammad Salari**','30 SAEID ROKNI 1079.pdf','',1,'','','','',''),(29,'2','Phytochemical Screening of Medicinal Plant Dolichandrone falcata ','Sulekha Joshi*, V. P. Gupta** and Utkarsh Sharma***','31 SULEKHA JOSHI 1070.pdf','',1,'The present study is conducted in order to discover the qualitative and quantitative analysis of the plant species Dolichandrone falcata. Qualitative phytochemical evaluation was carried out to test the presence of alkaloids, flavonoids, sugars, phenolic group, saponin, amino acid and essential oil in the extracts samples using modified methods. The present effort is targeted on the evaluation of the amount of total flavonoids and total phenol present in different plant parts such as bark, leaves and fruits. Estimated specific flavonoids (Rutin) was by using the method of Thin layer Chromatography. Plant species under estimation, Dolicahndrone falcata belongs to the family Bignoniaceae.','Dolichandrone falcata, Phytochemical, Total flavonoid, Total phenol, Rutin.','The present study is conducted in order to discover the qualitative and quantitative analysis of the plant species Dolichandrone falcata. Qualitative phytochemical evaluation was carried out to test the presence of alkaloids, flavonoids, sugars, phenolic group, saponin, amino acid and essential oil in the extracts samples using modified methods. The present effort is targeted on the evaluation of the amount of total flavonoids and total phenol present in different plant parts such as bark, leaves and fruits. Estimated specific flavonoids (Rutin) was by using the method of Thin layer Chromatography. Plant species under estimation, Dolicahndrone falcata belongs to the family Bignoniaceae.','-','Sulekha Joshi, V. P. Gupta and Utkarsh Sharma (2016). Phytochemical Screening of Medicinal Plant Dolichandrone falcata , Biological Forum â€“ An International Journal 8(1): 215-220,'),(30,'2','A Comparative study on the Antibacterial Properties of Traditional Oils produced from Umwai village, Mawlai town and Lyngkyrdem Village of the State of Meghalaya ','Sona Lyndem* and Jeremy Nelson Syiem*','32 SONA LYNDEM 1086.pdf','',1,'The search for new drugs derived from plants is becoming a recent focus for research among ethno pharmacologists, botanists and microbiologists. Folk medicine, essential oils or compounds like alkaloids, flavonoids, etc. isolated, are being studied for anti-microbial properties to be used as alternatives to commercial antibiotics against various ailments. The state of Meghalaya, India, is well known for its production of traditional medicines. Their uses have been circulated among the local people as cures against skin infections, fever, arthritis, body aches etc. In this study, six oils collected from different parts of the state were tested for anti-bacterial properties against eight bacterial species obtained from MTCC, Chandigarh and MCC, Pune using Disc Diffusion and Agar Diffusion Methods. The results of this study showed that only the oil from Lyngkyrdem village showed zones of inhibition against three bacteria and against all bacteria in the disc diffusion and agar diffusion t','Traditional oil, Lyngkyrdem village, Anti-microbial properties, Disc Diffusion, Agar Diffusion, Zone of inhibition.','The search for new drugs derived from plants is becoming a recent focus for research among ethno pharmacologists, botanists and microbiologists. Folk medicine, essential oils or compounds like alkaloids, flavonoids, etc. isolated, are being studied for anti-microbial properties to be used as alternatives to commercial antibiotics against various ailments. The state of Meghalaya, India, is well known for its production of traditional medicines. Their uses have been circulated among the local people as cures against skin infections, fever, arthritis, body aches etc. In this study, six oils collected from different parts of the state were tested for anti-bacterial properties against eight bacterial species obtained from MTCC, Chandigarh and MCC, Pune using Disc Diffusion and Agar Diffusion Methods. The results of this study showed that only the oil from Lyngkyrdem village showed zones of inhibition against three bacteria and against all bacteria in the disc diffusion and agar diffusion t','-','Sona Lyndem* and Jeremy Nelson Syiem (2016). A Comparative study on the Antibacterial Properties of Traditional Oils produced from Umwai village, Mawlai town and Lyngkyrdem Village of the State of Meghalaya , Biological Forum â€“ An International Journal '),(31,'2','Identification of Some Citrus Genotypes using Leaf Shape Analysis Based on Elliptical Fourier Descriptors','Maryam Abdolalipour*, Fariborz Zaare Nahandi*, Mohammad Reza Dadpour* and Zahra Sadighzadeh**','33 MARYAM ABDOLALIPOUR 1088.pdf','',1,'Computer-based identification of plant species has been the subject to numerous investigations in the last few decades. Image analysis of plants organs have been performed using different features such as shape, color, texture and by employing various mathematical models. In this work, identification of eight citrus genotypes has been carried out through image analysis of their leaves. Elliptical Fourier Descriptors (EFDs) have been used to model the outline of the leaves and subsequent statistical analyses have been performed on these EFDs. The results from the discriminant analysis indicate success rates of greater than 95% in correct identification of different genotypes, which is comparable with the results in the existing literature. Furthermore, principal component and hierarchical clustering analyses have been proven to be efficient methods for classification of these genotypes. The results show that the image-processing method is effective in identification of the studied genot','Image analysis, Elliptical Fourier Descriptors, Leaf Image, Shape Software, Chain code','Digital image analysis of eight citrus genotypes has been performed to evaluate the functionality of the computer-based identification to classify these genotypes and to obtain the level of similarities between them. Outline of 430 leaves belonging to above genotypes were subjected to image processing by EFDs. Subsequently, three different statistical methods have been applied to interpret the results from various aspects. CDA revealed promising results for accurate classification of the genotypes by achieving a success rate of greater than 95%. Furthermore, principal component analysis illustrated the prominent features which could be considered in the classification process. It was shown that using the first five principal components, at least 90% of the variances among each genotype could be retained. Finally, different genotypes of leaves were subjected to HCA which identified the overall similarity between the genotypes by clustering them into multiple groups based on the ecolo','-','Maryam Abdolalipour, Fariborz Zaare Nahandi, Mohammad Reza Dadpour and Zahra Sadighzadeh (2016). Identification of Some Citrus Genotypes using Leaf Shape Analysis Based on Elliptical Fourier Descriptors , Biological Forum â€“ An International Journal 8(1'),(32,'2','Investigation Banana Cultivars Yield and Quality traits under Green House Condition in Jiroft Region, Iran','Ali Darini','34 ALI DARINI 1084.pdf','',1,'Due to climate change, water resources reduction, need to alleviate areas under cultivation and increasing greenhouse crops with goal of optimal water and soil resources use, this project was conducted on banana cultivars under greenhouse condition in completely randomize design with 5 treatment and repetitions in Agricultural Research of Jiroft for three years. Investigated cultivars were included Harychal, Dwarf Cavendish, Valery, Chains Cavendish and Grand Nain. After four harvesting period, data were analyzed with SAS software. Variance analysis revealed that different cultivars significantly affected plant height and leaf number (Î±â‰¤0.01), and fruit sugar (Î±â‰¤0.05). The highest and lowest plant height belonged to Grand Nain (317 cm) and Chains Cavendish (282 cm), respectively. The maximum and minimum yield was observed in Harychal and Grand Nain with 30.26 and 25.34 ton/ha per harvesting, respectively. According to these findings, Harychal, Chains Cavendish and Dwarf Cavendish','Banana cultivars, greenhouse, compatibility, Jiroft, Kahnuj','Due to climate change, water resources reduction, need to alleviate areas under cultivation and increasing greenhouse crops with goal of optimal water and soil resources use, this project was conducted on banana cultivars under greenhouse condition in completely randomize design with 5 treatment and repetitions in Agricultural Research of Jiroft for three years. Investigated cultivars were included Harychal, Dwarf Cavendish, Valery, Chains Cavendish and Grand Nain. After four harvesting period, data were analyzed with SAS software. Variance analysis revealed that different cultivars significantly affected plant height and leaf number (Î±â‰¤0.01), and fruit sugar (Î±â‰¤0.05). The highest and lowest plant height belonged to Grand Nain (317 cm) and Chains Cavendish (282 cm), respectively. The maximum and minimum yield was observed in Harychal and Grand Nain with 30.26 and 25.34 ton/ha per harvesting, respectively. According to these findings, Harychal, Chains Cavendish and Dwarf Cavendish','-','Ali Darini (2016). Investigation Banana Cultivars Yield and Quality traits under Green House Condition in Jiroft Region, Iran ,Biological Forum â€“ An International Journal 8(1): 233-237.'),(33,'2','Rapid Detection of Doping with Morphine in Horses','Mandana Vaziri* and Ali Sarani**','35 ALI SARANI 1071.pdf','',1,'In recent years, popularity of horse-riding has increased which has caused many consequences and problems. One of the important issues raised in equestrian sports is the abuse of different drugs for doping. It has been reported that flunixin meglumine has been mainly used for doing of horses in recent years in Iran and also most of doping cases are of morphine type. In this study, urinary morphine detection kit, with the ability to detect at least 300 mg/ml morphine in urine, manufactured by a France company named ABONÂ® was used for early detection of morphine in horse doping. For this purpose, 36 horses of both sexes (26 horses in the experimental group and 10 horses as the control) were obtained. Horses in the experimental group were intramuscularly treated with 0.4 mg/kg morphine sulfate produced by Daroo Pakhsh Company. In addition, 10 control horses received distilled water by the same amount. Then, urine samples were collected 3, 24, and 48 hours after administration and tested ','Rapid detection of doping; Morphine Sulfate; Horse; Urinary kit','In recent years, popularity of horse-riding has increased which has caused many consequences and problems. One of the important issues raised in equestrian sports is the abuse of different drugs for doping. It has been reported that flunixin meglumine has been mainly used for doing of horses in recent years in Iran and also most of doping cases are of morphine type. In this study, urinary morphine detection kit, with the ability to detect at least 300 mg/ml morphine in urine, manufactured by a France company named ABONÂ® was used for early detection of morphine in horse doping. For this purpose, 36 horses of both sexes (26 horses in the experimental group and 10 horses as the control) were obtained. Horses in the experimental group were intramuscularly treated with 0.4 mg/kg morphine sulfate produced by Daroo Pakhsh Company. In addition, 10 control horses received distilled water by the same amount. Then, urine samples were collected 3, 24, and 48 hours after administration and tested ','-','Mandana Vaziri and Ali Sarani (2016). Rapid Detection of Doping with Morphine in Horses , Biological Forum â€“ An International Journal 8(1): 238-240.'),(34,'2','Evaluation the Inhibitory Effect of Atorvastatin and the Olibanum Extract to Reduce Bleomycin-induced Pulmonary Fibrosis','Salehe Asgary* and Iraj Javadi**','36 SALEHE ASGARY 1090.pdf','',1,'Bleomycin is an effective antibiotic with anti-tumor activity that has a minimum toxic effect on hematopoietic tissues and the immune system and can be widely used with the other chemotherapeutic agents. Lung injury is the most devastating side-effect of the anti-cancer drug Bleomycin which often progresses to pulmonary fibrosis. The objective of the present study is to evaluate antioxidant and anti-inflammatory effects of Atorvastatin and the extract of Olibanum on Bleomycin-induced pulmonary fibrosis. Male Wistar rats were randomly divided into four groups. The positive control group received Bleomycin Sulfate (1 U/100 gBW) intra-tracheal. In the negative control group, normal saline and propylene glycol (PG) and in the combination group, 10 mg/kgAtorvastatin and simultaneously 120 mg/kg hydro-alcoholic extract of Olibanum were injected intraperitoneally a week before Bleomycin administration and treatment was continued until 14 days afterwards. The levels of Malondialdehyde (MDA) an','Bleomycin, pulmonary fibrosis, Atorvastatin, Olibanum','The surveys show that combination of two mentioned materials can reduce the progress of pulmonary fibrosis. Bleomycin injection causes an increase in the lung weight of mice compared to the normal lung. \r\n \r\n\r\n\r\n\r\n Asgary and Javadi 246\r\n \r\nThis increased weight can be due to edema and fluid accumulation in the lung tissue which an appropriate space is provided because of the damage and destruction of alveoli and also duo to collagen accumulation which is the characteristic of Bleomycin-induced pulmonary toxicity (Selman et al., 2001). The lung weight ratio to the total body weight of the animal showed the most amount in Bleomycin group which is probably because of edema and pulmonary infiltration. On the other hand, weight loss due to animal\'s anorexia and its destructive effect has caused a rise in this index.\r\nIn the pulmonary fibrosis disease, Malond','-','Salehe Asgary* and Iraj Javadi (2016). Evaluation the Inhibitory Effect of Atorvastatin and the Olibanum Extract to Reduce Bleomycin-induced Pulmonary Fibrosis , Biological Forum â€“ An International Journal 8(1): 241-247.'),(35,'2','Electrocoagulation: Promising Technology for Removal of Fluoride from Drinking Water - A Review','Umesh Kumar Garg* and Chetna Sharma**','37 DR UMESH K GARG.pdf','',1,'Electrocoagulation has a long history as a water treatment technology having been employed to remove a wide range of pollutants. Inspite of its manifold applications the technique has never been accepted as a mainstream water treatment technology due to lack of a systematic approach to electrocoagulation reactor design, operation and the issue related to electrode dissolution over period of time. However recent technical improvements made in the field of EC has increased its popularity. Recently, electrocoagulation (EC) has been playing more prominent role in the drinking water treatment because it provides some significant advantages such as quite compact, easy operation, automation, no chemical additives, high velocities and reduced amount of sludge. In this paper various electrocoagulation studies conducted for the efficient removal of fluoride from water has been compiled and presented as available in the literature. ','Electrocoagulation, Drinking Water, Removal of Fluoride','Electrocoagulation technology has achieved a level of applicability and hence examined as potential defluoridation technology. Compared with traditional flocculationâ€“coagulation, electrocoagulation has the advantage of removing the smallest colloidal particles and relatively low amount of residue generation.\r\nIn spite of having numerous advantages, EC has some drawbacks such as the periodic replacement of sacrificial anodes. Also it requires a minimum conductivity depending on reactor design that limits its use with water containing low dissolved solids. \r\nIn addition the control of residual aluminium, technical and economical optimization of the process according to the quality of water being treated needs to be taken into considerations.\r\nAlthough large numbers of studies are available in literature further studies are required to elucidate the capability and limitations of the process. In order to scale up the method, the future work should be focused on investigating the influenc','-','Umesh Kumar Garg* and Chetna Sharma (2016). Electrocoagulation: Promising Technology for Removal of Fluoride from Drinking Water - A Review , Biological Forum â€“ An International Journal 8(1): 248-254.'),(36,'2','Yeast, Lactose, and Organic Acids Mixture Improved Zoological Growth and Immune Status of Japanese quails','Mohamed S. Yusuf*,**, Mohammed T. Ibrahim* , Hayam M. Samy* , Manal M.A. Mahmoud* and Hengmi Cui**','38 MOHAMED S. YUSUF 1102.pdf','',1,'The present study aimed to investigate the effect of incorporating some organic feed additives, lactose (G2), yeast (G3), lactose+yeast (G4), benzoic+citric acid (G5), lactose+benzoic+citric acid (G6) and diet prepared without additives (G1), on performances and immune status of one-week-old growing Japanese quails in 35 days growth performance trial. Chicks were randomly divided into 6 groups (30 birds each; mean weight 30.5g), each was subdivided into 3 replicates (10 chicks each). Body weight (BW), body weight gain (BWG), feed intake, feed conversion ratio and feed efficiency were determined weekly. At the end of the growing trial, 36 birds (2birds/replicate) were slaughtered for determination of carcass traits, and the economic efficiency. Blood samples were collected for measuring some serum biochemical parameters and immunoglobulin M (IgM). The results showed that the BW increased significantly in G2 and G6 compared to control (G1). The BWG was significantly higher in all treatme','Japanese quails, Bio-additives, Organic acids performance, Immunity, Prebiotics','In conclusion the present study showed that, 0.3% yeast, 0.1% lactose and OAC or OAC with lactose improved the growth performance, immune response and reduced cost of production and relative economic efficiency especially due to 0.1% lactose and OAC with lactose. ','-','Mohamed S. Yusuf, Mohammed T. Ibrahim* , Hayam M. Samy , Manal M.A. Mahmoud and Hengmi Cui (2016). Yeast, Lactose, and Organic Acids Mixture Improved Zoological Growth and Immune Status of Japanese quails Biological Forum â€“ An International Journal '),(37,'2','Study on use Endophytes for Enhancement of Tomato Toward Nematode Meloidogyne incognita in Vietnam','Thi Thanh Tam Vu*, Thi Anh Duong Nguyen* and Thi Tuyet Nguyen**','39 THI THANH TAM VU 1101.pdf','',1,'Six endophytic fungal isolates (Fusarium spp.) were chosen from our collection and investigated for their ability to enhance of tomato toward activity of root-knot nematode Meloidogyne incognita in greenhouse experiments in Vietnam. When the root system of tomatoes were pre-inoculated with the four endophytes, the Meloidogyne incognita was reduced significantly 29-56% the number of root galls and 34-56% the number of egg masses six weeks after nematode inoculation, respectively. Induction of induced systemic resistance of M. incognita in tomato roots by the same endophytic fungi was tested. Depending on the isolate, the number of galls decreased between 29-44% and the number of egg masses reduced 37-42% in treated tomatoes with endophytic isolates when compared to those un-treated without fungi. This is the first time that systemic resistance induced by a fungal endophyte has been investigated in tomato in Vietnam.','non-pathogenic endophytes, tomato, root-knot Meloidogyne incognita, biological control, Vietnam.','Six endophytic fungal isolates (Fusarium spp.) were chosen from our collection and investigated for their ability to enhance of tomato toward activity of root-knot nematode Meloidogyne incognita in greenhouse experiments in Vietnam. When the root system of tomatoes were pre-inoculated with the four endophytes, the Meloidogyne incognita was reduced significantly 29-56% the number of root galls and 34-56% the number of egg masses six weeks after nematode inoculation, respectively. Induction of induced systemic resistance of M. incognita in tomato roots by the same endophytic fungi was tested. Depending on the isolate, the number of galls decreased between 29-44% and the number of egg masses reduced 37-42% in treated tomatoes with endophytic isolates when compared to those un-treated without fungi. This is the first time that systemic resistance induced by a fungal endophyte has been investigated in tomato in Vietnam.','-','Thi Thanh Tam Vu, Thi Anh Duong Nguyen and Thi Tuyet Nguyen (2016). Study on use Endophytes for Enhancement of Tomato Toward Nematode Meloidogyne incognita in Vietnam , Biological Forum â€“ An International Journal 8(1): 268-272.'),(38,'2','QTLs Analysis Controlling Physiological Traits of Barley under Arsenic Stress','Fahime Mousavi*, Brat Ali Fakheri* and Farshid Golshani*','40 FARSHID GOLSHANI 1104.pdf','',1,'Arsenic (As) is a metalloid substance that can exist in inorganic or organic form and results in heavy-metal-induced plant toxicity via reactive oxygen species production. A population of 72 F1 double haploids derived from the Morex Ã— Steptoe cross, and the two parental lines ,was used to identify the quantitative trait loci (QTLs) associated with arsenic tolerance, and determine the contribution of each QTL on trait diversity in the barley. This study were carried outunder normal and arsenic stress conditions, in two randomized complete block designs with three replications under hydroponic system at Agricultural Biotechnology Research Institute, Zabol University, Zabol, Iran, in 2013. physiological traits including Chlorophyll content, proline content, water soluble carbohydrate (WSC), relative water content (RWC), cell membrane stability (CMS) and chlorophyll fluorescence (Fo, Fm) were measured. QTL analysis was performed using the genetic linkage map derived from molecular marker ','Arsenic stress, Barley, Physiological traits, QTL mapping','The present study was the first investigation on QTL analysis of physiological traits of double haploid population of barley under the arsenic stress condition in Iran. In total, 23 QTLs were detected for studied traits. QTLs QFo5H.n and QFo5H.s is ranged from 148.8 cM of chromosome 5H, controlling Fo and QTLs Qch7H.n and Qch7H.s in Location from 14.01 cM of chromosome 7H, controlling Chlorophyll contents were quite stable. Therefore, if this result would repeat in different environment, years and genotypes, it can be used in marker assisted selection.','-','Fahime Mousavi, Brat Ali Fakheri* and Farshid Golshani (2016). QTLs Analysis Controlling Physiological Traits of Barley under Arsenic Stress , Biological Forum â€“ An International Journal 8(1): 273-282.'),(39,'2','An Efficient and Green Synthesis of isatin Derivatives under Ultrasound Irradiation','Elahe Keshavarz','41 ELAHE KESHAVARZ 1028.pdf','',1,'A simple, fast and green synthetic protocol is described for one-pot aldolization of isatins and ketones under ultrasound irradiation and conventional thermal method. The 3 mol % of ruthenium catalyst is sufficient to catalyze the aldol reaction of ketones and isatins provided aldol adducts in moderate to good yield and complete diastereoselectivity. Compared with classical methods, ultrasound irradiation procedure provided shorter reaction times and higher yields. The methodology highlights the importance of low catalyst loading in achieving high chemoselectivity under silent and sonochemistry. As this approach involves time conservation and minimal waste generation, it is embraced as a green chemistry method. ','Isatin, Ruthenium catalyst, Aldol reaction, Sonochemistry','An investigation into new catalytic approaches for aldol reaction of isatin using RuII serves as valuable addition to the existing methods and expands the horizons of Ru catalyst. Compared to conventional heating which provides thermal energy in the system, sonification reduces reaction times, and minimizes side product formation in good yield and complete diastereoselectivity.','-','Elahe Keshavarz (2016). An Efficient and Green Synthesis of isatin Derivatives under Ultrasound Irradiation , Biological Forum â€“ An International Journal 8(1): 283-286.'),(40,'2','A Thematic and Etymological Glossary of Carnivorous Animals Based on the Pahlavi Text of Iranian Bundahishn','Golnar Ghalekhani and Mahdi Khaksar','42 GOLNAR GHALEKHANI 1097.pdf','',1,'The purpose of this study was a thematic-etymological investigation based on the names of carnivorous animals mentioned in Iranian Bundahishn. In this study, after mentioning the names of carnivorous animals alphabetically, the genus of each of them was presented in accordance with Bundahishn. Afterwards, certain parts of the aforementioned book which dealt with each of the animals were presented. Next, the etymology of the name of each animal was dissected in different languages including Indo-European, Sanskrit, Avestan, Khotanese, Middle Persian, Chorasmian, Sogdian (Christian, Manichaean, and Buddhist) and New Persian. Finally, the gradual change in the names of animals from Old Persian, to Middle and then to New Persian was made clear. It is hoped that the present study would be helpful for those who are interested in Ancient Iran and those who are intrigued by the etymology of the name of animals.','Carnivorous animals, Genus, Iranian Bundahishn, Ancient languages, Middle era, New Persian, Etymology','The book Bundahishn provides us an exhaustive classification of animals and the way they are divided into various groups. Based on its classification, all the animals are initially divided into three major catogries: land genera, bird genera, and aquatic genera.\r\n The animals investigated and studied in this research include 13 carnivorous animals which dwell on amongst the earthly creatures: the first group comprises of Tiger, Leopard, Tureh (jackal), lion, Hyena, and Cheetah which all belong to the wolf-species; these are wild animals amongst which the Jackal, Hyena, and Cheetah are cave-diggers, the Leopard is mountain-climber, and the lion is regarded as an Ahriman animal, i.e. a creature of the evil spirit.\r\n The second group is consisted of Weasel, Fox, Hedgehog, and dog which all belong to dog-species. These four animals are in opposition to the wolf-species and deemed to be Ahuric (of the good spirit). The presence of hedgehog in this group is noticeable s','-','Golnar Ghalekhani and Mahdi Khaksar (2016). A Thematic and Etymological Glossary of Carnivorous Animals Based on the Pahlavi Text of Iranian Bundahishn , Biological Forum â€“ An International Journal 8(1): 287-294.'),(41,'2','Promising Sudanese Medicinal Plants with Antibacterial Activity - a Review Article','Wail E. Abdalla*,** and Emad M. Abdallah*','44 DR. EMAD MOHAMED 1116.pdf','',1,'This study is considered as the most comprehensive review of Sudanese medicinal plants with promising antibacterial activities, since it covered more than 60 published studies on that topic. A total of 142 plant species belonging to 64 families, which showed antibacterial activities when extracted using different solvents (polar and non-polar) and tested against some gram negative or gram positive bacteria in vitro (cup-plate method and disc diffusion method) have been presented. In conclusion, the list of medicinal plants presented in this review clearly indicates that most of them could be promising sources of new antibacterial drugs and encourages researchers for further microbiological and pharmacological studies.','medicinal plants, Sudan, antibacterial, traditional medicine.','This study is considered as the most comprehensive review of Sudanese medicinal plants with promising antibacterial activities, since it covered more than 60 published studies on that topic. A total of 142 plant species belonging to 64 families, which showed antibacterial activities when extracted using different solvents (polar and non-polar) and tested against some gram negative or gram positive bacteria in vitro (cup-plate method and disc diffusion method) have been presented. In conclusion, the list of medicinal plants presented in this review clearly indicates that most of them could be promising sources of new antibacterial drugs and encourages researchers for further microbiological and pharmacological studies.','-','Wail E. Abdalla, and Emad M. Abdallah (2016). Promising Sudanese Medicinal Plants with Antibacterial Activity - a Review Article , Biological Forum â€“ An International Journal 8(1): 299-323.'),(42,'2','Optimization of Energy Consumption for Cucumber Production with Non-parametric Linear model','Seyed Masoud Kamali and Mazdak Rasapoor','45 SEYED MASOUD KAMALI 1113.pdf','',1,'The efficiency of production units is measured either by parametric or by non-parametric methods. The first approach estimates the parameters of the production or cost functions statistically. The second one, in contrast, builds a linear piece-wise function from empirical observations of inputs and outputs. In this study a mathematical Analysis is used to estimate the energy efficiencies of cucumber producers based on eight energy inputs including human labor, diesel fuel, machinery, fertilizers, chemicals, water for irrigation, electricity and seed energy and single output of cucumber production. Data were collected using face-to-face surveys from 20 greenhouses in Golshan city, Esfahan province of Iran. Energy indices, technical, pure technical and scale efficiencies were calculated by using Data Envelopment Analysis (DEA) approach for 20 cucumber greenhouses. Total energy input and output were calculated as 163994 MJha-1 and 62496 MJha-1, respectively, whereas diesel fuel consumptio','Data envelopment analysis, efficient units, greenhouse cucumber, technical efficiency','This study applied a mathematical model to calculate the efficiency of 20 cucumber greenhouses in the Golshan city, Esfahan province of Iran. This procedure allows the determination of greenhouses6, 11, and 12 as the best practice greenhouses that can be providing useful insights for other greenhouse management.Diesel fuel,total fertilizers and electricity energy inputs had the highest potential for saving energy; so, if inefficient greenhouses would pay more attention towards these sources, they would considerably improve their energy productivity.','-','Seyed Masoud Kamali and Mazdak Rasapoor (2016). Optimization of Energy Consumption for Cucumber Production with Non-parametric Linear model , Biological Forum â€“ An International Journal 8(1): 324-330. '),(43,'2','Molecular identification of Hepatozoon Miller, 1908 (Apicomplexa: Adeleorina) haemoparasites in Podarcis muralis lizards from northern Italy and detection of conserved motifs in the 18S rRNA gene','Simona Panelli, Marianna Bassi and Enrica Capelli','46 ENRICA CAPELLI 1098.pdf','',1,'This study applies a non-invasive molecular test on common wall lizards (Podarcis muralis) collected in Northern Italy in order to i) identify protozoan blood parasites using primers targeting a portion of haemogregarine 18S rRNA; ii) perform a detailed bioinformatic and phylogenetic analysis of amplicons in a context where sequence analyses data are very scarce. Indeed the corresponding phylum (Apicomplexa) remains the poorest-studied animal group in spite of its significance for reptile ecology and evolution. \r\nA single genus, i.e., Hepatozoon Miller, 1908 (Apicomplexa: Adeleorina) and an identical infecting genotype were identified in all positive hosts. \r\nBioinformatic analyses identified highly conserved sequence patterns, some of which known to be involved in the host-parasite cross-talk. Phylogenetic analyses evidenced a limited host specificity, in accord with existing data. \r\nThis paper provides the first Hepatozoon sequence from P. muralis and one of the few insights into t','haemoparasites, lizards, Hepatozoon, Podarcis spp., bioinformatics, conserved sequence motifs, untranslated regions.','The present analysis provides one of the few available insights into the molecular parasitology, sequence analysis and phylogenetic characterization of protozoan blood parasites of P. muralis. Our data report the presence, in a ribosomal gene, of putative regulatory motifs active on the regulation of gene expression and conserved across large phylogenetic distances. This is in line with emerging data on: (i) other parasitic protozoan species (Plasmodium, Tritrichomonas) and their interplay with host physiological traits, known to occur through also the same conserved regulatory motifs identified in our analysis; (ii) the presence, in eukaryotic ribosomal genes, of mRNA regulation elements as part of interactions rRNA-mRNA for regulating gene expression at the level of protein synthesis.','-','Simona Panelli, Marianna Bassi and Enrica Capelli (2016). Molecular identification of Hepatozoon Miller, 1908 (Apicomplexa: Adeleorina) haemoparasites in Podarcis muralis lizards from northern Italy and detection of conserved motifs in the 18S rRNA gene ,'),(44,'2','The Effect of Oral Administration of Bisphenol A on Tissue and Liver Enzymes, Serum Lipids and Blood Glucose in Rats','Mahnaz Taherianfard*, Sara Abdolmaleki**, Zahra Alimoradi***, Hamidreza Afsoun**** and Mohammad Alimoradi*****','47 MOHAMMAD ALIMORADI 1060.pdf','',1,'Bisphenol A (BPA) is a synthetic compound of carbon with chemical formula (CH3)2C (C6H4OH)2. In this study 20 adult male rats were selected and divided into 4 groups of 5including group I (Control), group II (Shame) and groups III and IV(receiving BPA at doses of 5 and 50 Î¼g/kg/day respectively). BPA was given to rats by gavage for 15 days and blood samples were collected. Serum lipids (Triglyceride, Total Cholesterol, HDL and LDL), Serum liver enzymes (AST, ALT and ALP) and serum glucose values were measured. According to the data, using BPA at 2 doses caused a significant reduction (P<0.05) in liver enzymes level and a significant increase in LDL level, but had no effect on lipids and blood sugar. BPA at the low dose caused a significant increase in Triglyceride. Therefore within these doses and during the research (2 weeks), BPA does not cause fatty liver.','Bisphenol A, Liver Enzymes, Lipids, Blood Sugar','The results suggest that administration at high and low doses of BPA have been significantly decreased the liver enzymes and it has not cause any significant change in serum total cholesterol, serum HDL and serum glucose levels, but has led to the increase of LDL cholesterol level.','-','Mahnaz Taherianfard, Sara Abdolmaleki, Zahra Alimoradi, Hamidreza Afsoun and Mohammad Alimoradi (2016). The Effect of Oral Administration of Bisphenol A on Tissue and Liver Enzymes, Serum Lipids and Blood Glucose in Rats , Biological Forum â€“ An Internat'),(45,'2','Introduction of a Method for Locating New Urban Forest Parks using Multi-criteria Analysis and GIS Approaches','M. Ghorbani* and A. Fakur**','48 MAHAN GHORBANI 1128.pdf','',1,'Urban parks and green spaces are one of the applications that their distributions are very important in the city. Accordingly, the necessity of constructing green spaces including parks and urban forest and selecting new locations for plantations in cities are coming vital. The multi-criteria analysis comprises three steps including initial selection stage, suitability stage and feasibility stage. In the initial selection stage, the possible areas for urban forest parks are evaluated and the areas which takes the suitable points are selected for the next stage. The criteria are weighted by experts before they ranked in the next stage. Afterwards, the regions with the highest score and suitability are entered in feasibility stage and evaluated. Finally, the areas with the highest scores are selected for the construction of urban forest parks. MCA flexibility in setting the criteria for each area based on the conditions and characteristics of the area is important.','urban forest parks, urban forestry, locating, multi-criteria analysis (MCA), urban planning.','Suitability techniques are essential for consciously decision making and empowering the local planners and decision makers to analyze the important interactions. Multi-criteria analysis is a flexible and practical way to facilitate the process of selecting suitable for the urban forest parks establishment. The input information from local experts and survey of citizens to choose the criteria on multi-criteria analysis and also the use of local experts to determine weighting coefficients, provide a model that could be used to adapt for different cities to create a multi-criteria analysis for urban forest parks locally.','-','M. Ghorbani and A. Fakur (2016). Introduction of a Method for Locating New Urban Forest Parks using Multi-criteria Analysis and GIS Approaches ,Biological Forum â€“ An International Journal 8(1): 345-350.'),(46,'2','Evaluation of Bread Wheat Varieties in Terms of Grain Yield and Zn and Fe Accumulation in Grain using Stress Tolerance Index.','Nasibeh Sharifi-soltani*, Seyed Siamak Alavi-Kia** and Nikwan Shariatipour*','49 NASIBEH SHARIFI-SOLTANI 1120.pdf','',1,'Global population is increasing significantly and supplying nutrition for these people requires access to new cultivars with high quality and quantity. Among the factors, enhancing the quality of agricultural products, especially grains, is the presence of micronutrients like zinc and iron. To assess and determine superior wheat genotypes in terms of performance as well as zinc and iron micronutrients in the grain, 37 bread wheat genotypes with two types of facultative and winter growth were studied in two separate trials (with/without zinc foliar application) in a randomized complete block design with three replications at Khalatpoushan Research Station of Agriculture Department, Tabriz University. Then, the combined analysis of variance was performed on it. Zinc foliar (0.68 kg/ ha) was applied in an experiment equipped with foliar application. The agronomic trait of grain yield was measured per plant. Moreover, the two content traits of zinc and iron in whole grains were assessed us','Wheat (Triticum aestivum L.), Micronutrients, Stress Tolerance Index.','Global population is increasing significantly and supplying nutrition for these people requires access to new cultivars with high quality and quantity. Among the factors, enhancing the quality of agricultural products, especially grains, is the presence of micronutrients like zinc and iron. To assess and determine superior wheat genotypes in terms of performance as well as zinc and iron micronutrients in the grain, 37 bread wheat genotypes with two types of facultative and winter growth were studied in two separate trials (with/without zinc foliar application) in a randomized complete block design with three replications at Khalatpoushan Research Station of Agriculture Department, Tabriz University. Then, the combined analysis of variance was performed on it. Zinc foliar (0.68 kg/ ha) was applied in an experiment equipped with foliar application. The agronomic trait of grain yield was measured per plant. Moreover, the two content traits of zinc and iron in whole grains were assessed us','-','Nasibeh Sharifi-soltani, Seyed Siamak Alavi-Kia and Nikwan Shariatipour (2016). Evaluation of Bread Wheat Varieties in Terms of Grain Yield and Zn and Fe Accumulation in Grain using Stress Tolerance Index , Biological Forum â€“ An International Journal 8('),(47,'2','Foliar Application Effect of Putrescine on Antioxidative Defense of Wheat (Triticum aestivum L. var sw _82_9) under Water Deficit Stress','Zahra Karimi','50 ZAHRA KARIMI 1110.pdf','',1,'','','','',''),(48,'2','Assessment of River Beas Water Quality during Summer Season in Himachal Pradesh, India','Suman Sharma* and Y. K. Walia**','51 SUMAN SHARMA.pdf','',1,'In present investigations the analysis of water quality parameters of river Beas in Himachal Pradesh during summer season was undertaken. Parameters such as alkalinity, conductivity, pH, temperature, total dissolved solids (TDS), total hardness, turbidity, calcium, magnesium, potassium, sodium, cadmium, copper, iron, lead, chloride, fluoride, nitrate, and Biological parameters such as biological oxygen demand (BOD), chemical oxygen demand (COD), Colliform and Escherichia coli were analyzed from six sampling stations i.e. Beaskund, Shamshi, Pandohdam, Dharmpur, Nadaun and Pongdam in the study area. The analysis of data reveals that Cadmium, iron and were found to be higher than the acceptable limit prescribed by Bureau of Indian standards (BIS), 2012 for drinking water in India. The mean value of Lead was at par with acceptable proposed by WHO, 2011 and BIS, 2012. The mean pH value was 8.55Â±0.016 at Nadaun (SS-5). Colliform and E. coli were present in all the sampling stations of ','River Beas, Water Quality, Summer, parameters.','In present investigations the analysis of water quality parameters of river Beas in Himachal Pradesh during summer season was undertaken. Parameters such as alkalinity, conductivity, pH, temperature, total dissolved solids (TDS), total hardness, turbidity, calcium, magnesium, potassium, sodium, cadmium, copper, iron, lead, chloride, fluoride, nitrate, and Biological parameters such as biological oxygen demand (BOD), chemical oxygen demand (COD), Colliform and Escherichia coli were analyzed from six sampling stations i.e. Beaskund, Shamshi, Pandohdam, Dharmpur, Nadaun and Pongdam in the study area. The analysis of data reveals that Cadmium, iron and were found to be higher than the acceptable limit prescribed by Bureau of Indian standards (BIS), 2012 for drinking water in India. The mean value of Lead was at par with acceptable proposed by WHO, 2011 and BIS, 2012. The mean pH value was 8.55Â±0.016 at Nadaun (SS-5). Colliform and E. coli were present in all the sampling stations of ','-','Suman Sharma and Y. K. Walia (2016). Assessment of River Beas Water Quality during Summer Season in Himachal Pradesh, India , Biological Forum â€“ An International Journal 8(1): 363-371.'),(49,'2','Sowing Date Effect on Tomato Yellow Leaf Curl Virus','Ali Darini and Mehdi Azadvar','52 ALI DARINI.pdf','',1,'Tomato Yellow Leaf Curl Virus (TYLCV) is one of usual ailments which changing sowing date, as one of appropriate agricultural methods, has significant effect on damage reduction of mentioned disease and chemical fertilizer application. According to no report and research on the best sowing date of tomato in south of Kerman, this research was conducted for nomination the best sowing date in order to escape TYLCV and reduce its effect in open air cultivation in Manoujan of Kerman. It was done in the form of Complete Block Design with five treatments and three replications. Seeds were cultivated in terrarium (6 August, 21 August, 5 September, 20 September and 5 October) and based on the plant phenology (5-6 leaf stage) transplanted in the main land. The results indicated that sowing in early August to September could not reduce the damage severity but planting in 20 September and 5 October significantly reduced pollution percent and severity.','TYLCV, transplanting, sowing date, tomato, viral disease','Sowing date, as an affecting factor of crop yield and quality, is an important factor in agricultural crops. On the other hand, perceptible changes in climatic conditions have significant effect on plants growth rate and pest population. Due to hot weather, the first to third sowing date led to slow plant growth and pest population growth; therefore, it caused increase in extent of damage to the crops. According to low area under cultivation of the pest hosts in summer, whitefly was more infested tomato crops and damage severity was higher. The lowest amount of damage amount was observed in the fourth and fifth sowing date but price of tomato fruits in 20 September and 5 October was affected by fluctuations in market prices. Although, changing the sowing date in early sowing method was less able to reduce pest damages but using tolerant varieties with proper swing date can reduce damage of Sar Jamak to minimum. Therefore, it is recommended to use tolerant varieties in late August, earl','-','Ali Darini and Mehdi Azadvar (2016). Sowing Date Effect on Tomato Yellow Leaf Curl Virus , Biological Forum â€“ An International Journal 8(1): 372-378.'),(50,'2','The Effects of Sodium Chloride Stress on Proline Content and Morphological Characteristics in Wheat (Triticum aestivum L.)','Mahdi Akbari, Mahmoud Toorchi* and Mohammad Reza Shakiba','53 MAHDI AKBARI.pdf','',1,'Salinity is the most important abiotic stresses adversely affect the quality and quantity of crops, in which 20% of the world\'s irrigated agricultural lands are affected by salinity. Wheat is an oldest and the first crop used for bread making for human nutrition. To investigate the response of wheat root to NaCl stress, a susceptible, Arta, and resistance, Bam, wheat varieties were grown under both non-stress and stress conditions. Stress plants were exposed to 250 mM of NaCl based on a completely randomized design with four replications. After removing the roots from the soil and removing them from the shoot, the fresh and dry weight, length, volume, Numbers of main roots of each plant were recorded. Then the other roots were harvested and were immediately immersed in liquid nitrogen and stored at -80Â°C until used for proline measurement.','NaCl stress, proline content, morphological characteristic, root, wheat','We couldn\'t find significant effect on morphological characters of plants that are under the salt stress due to the short time duration and the effect of stress on morphological trait needs more time. A large number of plant species accumulate proline in response to salinity stress and that accumulation may play a role in defense against salinity stress. Proline content under salt stress is more increase in sensitive cultivar than resistance.','-','Mahdi Akbari, Mahmoud Toorchi* and Mohammad Reza Shakiba (2016). The Effects of Sodium Chloride Stress on Proline Content and Morphological Characteristics in Wheat (Triticum aestivum L.) . Biological Forum â€“ An International Journal 8(1): 379-385.'),(51,'2','Studies on Salicylic Acid as a Possible Biochemical Marker for Screening Tobacco Mosaic Virus Resistant Progenies in Tobacco Breeding','K. N. Subrahmanya* and M. Krishnappa**','54 KN SUBRAHMANYA.pdf','',1,'Salicylic acid (SA) has gained importance from the discoveries as an endogenous regulator of flowering in thermogenic plants. Induction of resistance to Tobacco Mosaic Virus in tobacco by exogenous application of SA and demonstration of its accumulation at the sight of necrosis following infection in tobacco plants have given a new dimension to its role in resistance. In the present study, a comparative estimation of SA in TMV resistant, tolerant and susceptible varieties was made to explore the feasibility of its use as a marker to distinguish differential response of genotypes to TMV infection. There was no difference in the basal level of SA in leaves, among varieties. However, only resistant but neither susceptible nor tolerant variety showed significant accumulation of SA after TMV inoculation and increase was 117% above the levels found in leaves of healthy plants i.e., from 0.43 to 0.94 Âµg/g fresh weight. To validate the practical utility of this biochemical marker in breeding ','Salicylic Acid, Marker, Tobacco Mosaic Virus, Resistance, Tolerance, Tobacco Breeding','Salicylic acid (SA) has gained importance from the discoveries as an endogenous regulator of flowering in thermogenic plants. Induction of resistance to Tobacco Mosaic Virus in tobacco by exogenous application of SA and demonstration of its accumulation at the sight of necrosis following infection in tobacco plants have given a new dimension to its role in resistance. In the present study, a comparative estimation of SA in TMV resistant, tolerant and susceptible varieties was made to explore the feasibility of its use as a marker to distinguish differential response of genotypes to TMV infection. There was no difference in the basal level of SA in leaves, among varieties. However, only resistant but neither susceptible nor tolerant variety showed significant accumulation of SA after TMV inoculation and increase was 117% above the levels found in leaves of healthy plants i.e., from 0.43 to 0.94 Âµg/g fresh weight. To validate the practical utility of this biochemical marker in breeding ','-','K. N. Subrahmanya and M. Krishnappa (2016). Studies on Salicylic Acid as a Possible Biochemical Marker for Screening Tobacco Mosaic Virus Resistant Progenies in Tobacco Breeding , Biological Forum â€“ An International Journal 8(1): 386-390.'),(52,'2','Genetic Variation of Bread Wheat Varieties in terms of Zn and Fe Accumulation in grain under Zinc Foliar Application','Nasibeh Sharifi-soltani, Seyed Siamak Alavi-Kia, Mohammad Moghaddam Vahed** and Saeid Aharizad','55 SEYED SIAMAK ALAVI-KIA.pdf','',1,'The micronutrient malnutrition is being increasingly extended due to rapid growth of human population beside the expansion of agronomy systems. One approach of resolving this problem is employing cultivars with high absorption efficiency for these elements. This Study was designed to evaluate the effect of zinc foliar application and its accumulation in wheat grain on agronomic traits and iron accumulation in the grain of facultative and winter wheat varieties that were conducted in two separate experiments based on RCB design with three replications. The results explained a significant positive effect of zinc foliar application on all traits except grain iron content. The growth type had significant effect on all traits. The effect of variety within the growth type was significant in terms of all traits and indicated high genetic variation among the varieties. Back Cross Roshan, Shahpasand and Mihan were the best varieties in term of grain yield. Bisotoun, Kaveh, Tous and Mahdavi vari','Grain Iron Content, Grain Zinc Content, Wheat.','Based on the positive correlation between grain yield and its iron content and their negative correlation with grain\'s zinc content, it seems that combined selection method is impossible for these three traits in the studied cultivars, so in order to produce high- performance cultivars with considerable zinc and iron grain contents, it is recommended to consider combination between far cases in terms of grain\'s zinc content followed by selection between the obtained results. ','-','Nasibeh Sharifi-soltani, Seyed Siamak Alavi-Kia, Mohammad Moghaddam Vahed** and Saeid Aharizad (2016). Genetic Variation of Bread Wheat Varieties in terms of Zn and Fe Accumulation in grain under Zinc Foliar Application, Biological Forum â€“ An Internatio'),(53,'2','Cloning of Flanking Regions of Plastidal Vectors in Soybean (Glycine max L.): partial AtpB and RbcL','Amir Sam Pordel, Bahram Baghban Kohne-Rooz and Parviz Soleimani','56 PARVIZ SOLEIMANI 1125.pdf','',1,'For successful plastid transformation, a foreign DNA and endogenous regulatory sequences on the transgene cassette are flanked with plastid DNA fragments homologous to a specific site on plastome. To clone the intergene between rbcL and AtpB of Glycine max plastome along with portions of rbcL and AtpB genes as flanking sequences, forward and reversed primers were designed using Primer-Blast in NCBA. Restriction sites and over-hanged AA were added to 5\' of either primer. A pre-test gradient temperature was used to identify the best annealing temperature for multiple primer sets during polymerase chain reaction, which was 62.7Â°C in this case. Flanking sequences as long as 195 Nucleotides from 3\' late part of RbcL and 306 Nucleotides from 5\' region of AtpB were amplified. Results showed that RbcL part of the fragment carries 10 gaps out of 195 nucleotide pairs, which accounts for 5%, but there is no gap in AtpB part. ','AtpB, flanking sequence, gradient temperature, Plastid transformation, RbcL, ','For successful plastid transformation, a foreign DNA and endogenous regulatory sequences on the transgene cassette are flanked with plastid DNA fragments homologous to a specific site on plastome. To clone the intergene between rbcL and AtpB of Glycine max plastome along with portions of rbcL and AtpB genes as flanking sequences, forward and reversed primers were designed using Primer-Blast in NCBA. Restriction sites and over-hanged AA were added to 5\' of either primer. A pre-test gradient temperature was used to identify the best annealing temperature for multiple primer sets during polymerase chain reaction, which was 62.7Â°C in this case. Flanking sequences as long as 195 Nucleotides from 3\' late part of RbcL and 306 Nucleotides from 5\' region of AtpB were amplified. Results showed that RbcL part of the fragment carries 10 gaps out of 195 nucleotide pairs, which accounts for 5%, but there is no gap in AtpB part. ','-','Amir Sam Pordel, Bahram Baghban Kohne-Rooz and Parviz Soleimani (2016). Cloning of Flanking Regions of Plastidal Vectors in Soybean (Glycine max L.): partial AtpB and RbcL , Biological Forum â€“ An International Journal 8(1): 397-403.'),(54,'2','Effect of Exogenous Nitric Oxide Application on Secondary Metabolite Content of Marigold (Calendula officinalis L.)','Zohreh Sayyah*, Saeedeh Alizadeh-Salteh** and Fariborz Zare Nahandi**','57 FARIBORZ ZARE NAHANDI.pdf','',1,'Marigold (Calendula officinalis L.) is an important herbal plant because of its phenolic compound. Nitric oxide which is a signal molecule could impressed development processes and secondary metabolite production in plant. The effect of spraying three level of sodium nitroprussiate (SNP) as a NO donor was studied on content of phenolic compound and some other property and growth indices of Calendula officinalis L. The data of experiment shown that SNP treatment probably have significantly roll in production of phenolic compound, flavonoid content, antioxidant activity and essential oil of plant capitule, but not effective on other pigment content and some growth indices like flower dry weight.','Calendula officinalis L., nitric oxide, phenolic content, flavonoid, antioxidant.','Marigold (Calendula officinalis L.) is an important herbal plant because of its phenolic compound. Nitric oxide which is a signal molecule could impressed development processes and secondary metabolite production in plant. The effect of spraying three level of sodium nitroprussiate (SNP) as a NO donor was studied on content of phenolic compound and some other property and growth indices of Calendula officinalis L. The data of experiment shown that SNP treatment probably have significantly roll in production of phenolic compound, flavonoid content, antioxidant activity and essential oil of plant capitule, but not effective on other pigment content and some growth indices like flower dry weight.','-','Zohreh Sayyah, Saeedeh Alizadeh-Salteh and Fariborz Zare Nahandi (2016). Effect of Exogenous Nitric Oxide Application on Secondary Metabolite Content of Marigold (Calendula officinalis L.) , Biological Forum â€“ An International Journal 8(1): 404-410.'),(55,'2','An Account of Nickel Requirement, Toxicity and Oxidative Stress in Plants','Nandini Yadav and Samir Sharma','59 NANDINI YADAV.pdf','',1,'Nickel, heavy metal is an essential micronutrient for plants but its requirement is very low. Various anthropogenic activities have contributed to the toxic level of nickel in air, water and food. Through scientific studies, nickel toxicity now has been recognized as a primary growth-limiting factor in plants which results in reduced plant growth and development. Nickel hyperaccumulative plants have been reported presence of resistance against herbivores and pathogens but it cannot justify the overall environmental damage due to nickel toxicity. To overcome the nickel induced environmental pollution, its role in the environment and toxic effect are essential to understand. The objective of this paper is to cover the occurrence and sources of Nickel, its dimension from essential to toxic and its toxicity implications, leading to oxidative stress in plants. ','Heavy metal, Hyperaccumulative plants, Environmental damage, Oxidative stress ','Scientific studies have observed that nickel mediate toxicity in plant by competition with other metal ions or form chelate complexes with metal ligands. Consequences of nickel toxicity include deficiency of other metal ions and retarded seed germination, disruption of cell structure and wilting, ROS induction, metabolic disruption and ultimately growth inhibition and reduction in yields. To overcome nickel induced environmental damage, its sequestration from soil and water is required. More research in the area of nickel hyperaccumulative plants is needed so that nickel can be removed phytoremedically from the polluted sites. ','-','Nandini Yadav and Samir Sharma (2016). An Account of Nickel Requirement, Toxicity and Oxidative Stress in Plants, Biological Forum â€“ An International Journal 8(1): 414-419.'),(56,'2','Response Surface Methodological Study of Glucose Laurate Synthesis Catalyzed by Immobilized Lipase from Candida cylindracea','Nadia Bouzaouit and Chahra Bidjou-Haiour','60 CHAHRA BIDJOU-HAIOUR.pdf','',1,'The purpose of the present work is to study the reaction conditions affecting the lipase-catalyzed synthesis of fatty acid glucose ester with immobilized Candida cylindracea lipase, using response surface methodology. According to the Box-Behnken design principles, response surface methodology with three factors such as temperature, solvent polarity and reaction time at three levels was adopted. The factors influencing the parameters were determined by means of regression analysis. The optimum values for the highest conversion yield of C=76% was obtained at a temperature of 80Â°C in ethyl methyl ketone as a solvent and at a reaction time of 72h. It was shown that the obtained model can predict conversion of the starting material and the obtained results were in good agreement to measured data. ','Lipase from Candida cylindracea, sugar, optimization, response surface methodology.','The modeling and optimization of immobilized Candida cylindracea lipase catalyzed synthesis of glucose ester was successfully performed using a response surface methodology based on a Box-Behnken design. Predictability of the results for the above-mentioned reaction was found to be very good. Under the optimal conditions, the conversion was 76% in EMK at 80Â°C and 72h. The determination coefficient (R2) was 0.923, which ensure an adequate credibility of the model. The effectiveness of the bio-catalytic esterification of D-Glucose with immobilized CCL was found to depend strongly on the reaction temperature and the solubility of the substrate.','-','Nadia Bouzaouit and Chahra Bidjou-Haiour (2016). Response Surface Methodological Study of Glucose Laurate Synthesis Catalyzed by Immobilized Lipase from Candida cylindracea Biological Forum â€“ An International Journal 8(1): 420-427.'),(57,'2','Constructing and Determining the Reliability and Validity of a Purposive Career Behavior Scale for Master Science Students','Elham Khaksar*, Mohammad Sedigh Nekounam**, Mohsen Hasheminasab*** and Sarveh Soleimani****','61 ELHAM KHAKSAR.pdf','',1,'This study was carried out to develop and determine the validity and reliability of purposive career behavior scale for master science (M.Sc.) students of Yazd University, Iran. Thus, purposive career behavior scale including 30 items was constructed based on the \'theory of action\' and then to calculate the reliability and validity of the total scale of 125 M.Sc. students of Yazd University were studied. For the reliability of the scale, Cronbach\'s alpha and test-retest methods in a sample of 67 were applied. The obtained alpha coefficients were 0.97 and 0.89, respectively. Also, in order to check the reliability of the scale from the viewpoint of assessors as well as the correlation with questionnaires on \'career adaptability\' and \'career indecision\', the scale was conducted on a sample of 58 subjects using the Spearman correlation coefficient. The results indicated that the scale had a negative significant correlation with career indecision questionnaire (-0.26) and a positive signif','Purposive career behavior, contextual action theory, M.Sc. students.','This study was carried out to develop and determine the validity and reliability of purposive career behavior scale for master science (M.Sc.) students of Yazd University, Iran. Thus, purposive career behavior scale including 30 items was constructed based on the \'theory of action\' and then to calculate the reliability and validity of the total scale of 125 M.Sc. students of Yazd University were studied. For the reliability of the scale, Cronbach\'s alpha and test-retest methods in a sample of 67 were applied. The obtained alpha coefficients were 0.97 and 0.89, respectively. Also, in order to check the reliability of the scale from the viewpoint of assessors as well as the correlation with questionnaires on \'career adaptability\' and \'career indecision\', the scale was conducted on a sample of 58 subjects using the Spearman correlation coefficient. The results indicated that the scale had a negative significant correlation with career indecision questionnaire (-0.26) and a positive signif','-','Elham Khaksar, Mohammad Sedigh Nekounam, Mohsen Hasheminasab and Sarveh Soleimani (2016). Constructing and Determining the Reliability and Validity of a Purposive Career Behavior Scale for Master Science Students , Biological Forum â€“ An International J'),(58,'2','Species Composition and Diversity Pattern in various Grassland Communities with Respect to Different Disturbance and Light Regimes','Sumit Srivastava and R. P. Shukla','62 SUMIT SRIVASTAVA AND R. P. SHUKLA.pdf','',1,'The grassy landscape of north-eastern Uttar Pradesh showed quite high species richness and a total of 287 plant species belonging to 183 genera under 53 families were encountered within the sampled communities. We categorized each of 31 locations under 12 disturbance types under two light regimes. Their effects were observed in relation to different diversity attributes of grassland communities. In general, the number of species and genera was much greater in open condition as compared to that under partial shade condition. Approximately, >55% herbs, 55.5% shrubs and 50% climbers were common to both the light conditions. Over 31% herbs were common under open and >39.54% under partial shade condition at all the three disturbance levels. Nearly 14.28% species were common to all the disturbance level under open condition. In both, open as well as partial-shade conditions, the grassland communities were significantly different in terms of species richness, diversity, dominance and evenness','Grassland community, Species diversity, Disturbance, Light regimes, north-eastern Uttar Pradesh.','The study explores the species composition and diversity pattern within various grassland communities at three levels of disturbance under two light regimes. The partially shaded communities showed much greater diversity and evenness as compared to open communities under moderate level of disturbance. The fully exposed communities, on the other hand, showed quite low species richness and diversity at high disturbance. The latter promotes changes in the microenvironment of community by modifying the availability of resources. Low disturbance also supports considerable species richness but lesser as compared to communities facing moderate disturbance. Prostrate species showing aggregation often formed compact mat and allowed minimum associates which resulted into low species richness. The erect species, on the other hand, allowed significant number of species inside their aggregates which increased the species richness of the community. The discrete severe disturbance may cause local ext','-','Sumit Srivastava and R. P. Shukla (2016). Species Composition and Diversity Pattern in various Grassland Communities with Respect to Different Disturbance and Light Regimes , Biological Forum â€“ An International Journal 8(1): 435-446.'),(59,'2','Energy use Pattern and Application a Mathematical Model to Survey Energy Requirement for Wheat Production','Seyed Masoud Kamali, Mazdak Rasapoor and Reza Abdi','63 SEYED MASOUD KAMALI.pdf','',1,'The objectives of this study were to determine the energy consumption and evaluation of relationship between inputs and output for wheat production in Karaj region, Iran. For this propose data were collected from 60 wheat farms using a face to face questionnaire. The results revealed that total energy input for wheat production was found to be 31188.25 MJ ha-1 that the share of non-renewable energy form (89%) was more than renewable energy form (11%). Electricity has the highest share by 38.25% followed by total fertilizers and diesel fuel. Energy use efficiency, energy productivity, and net energy were 3.03, 0.21 kg MJ-1, and 65012.08 MJ ha-1, respectively. The regression results revealed that the contribution of energy inputs on crop yield (except for diesel fuel energies) was significant. Machinery energy was the most significant input (0.798) which affects the output level. It indicates that a 1% increase in the energy machinery input led to 0.798% increase in yield in these circum','Energy Use; Energy Efficiency; Cobb-Douglas; wheat','The aim of this study was to analyze impact of a particular energy input level on wheat yield in Karaj region, Iran. Based on the results of the investigations, the following conclusions were drawn:\r\nTotal energy input for wheat production was found to be 3246.53 MJ ha-1 and energy output was calculated as 96200.33 MJ ha-1. Electricity showed as the most energy consuming input followed by chemical fertilizers and diesel fuel. \r\nEnergy use efficiency, energy productivity, and net energy were 3.03, 0.21 kg MJ-1, and 65012.08 MJ ha-1, respectively.\r\nThe ratios of non-renewable energy are more than renewable energy (89% and 11%). Therefore, it is clear that wheat production depended on non-renewable energy consumption.\r\nThe impact of energy inputs could have positive effect on yield (except for diesel fuel energies).\r\nIt was concluded that additional use of machinery, and increasing mechanization level, would result more yield in the area.\r\n','-','Seyed Masoud Kamali, Mazdak Rasapoor and Reza Abdi (2016). Energy use Pattern and Application a Mathematical Model to Survey Energy Requirement for Wheat Production , Biological Forum â€“ An International Journal 8(1): 447-453.'),(60,'2','Efficacy of Cichorium intybus on Alanine Aminotransferase in Non- alcoholic Fatty Liver Disease: A Randomised Double-blind Clinical Trial with Placebo','Maryam Nikkhajoei*, Rasool Choopani*, Mojgan Tansaz*, Fataneh Hashem-Dabaghian**, Ghazaleh Heydarirad*, Shamim Sahranavard*** and Medi Saberifiroozi****','64 MARYAM.pdf','',1,'The present study assesses the efficacy of Cichorium intybus for the reduction of alanine aminotransferase (ALT) in Non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD). This randomized double-blind clinical-trial with placebo study was carried out for 61 patients. One group received 500 mg/day of powder extract of root of C. intybus orally before breakfast for 8 weeks while the other group received starch. Their body mass index (BMI), triglyceride (TG), cholesterol (Chol), ALT, aspartate aminotransferase (AST), high density lipoprotein (HDL), low density lipoprotein (LDL), fasting blood sugar (FBS) and impaired glucose tolerance (IGT) were measured before and after the study. In C. intybus group, BMI, ALT, AST, IGT after treatments were reduced compare to baseline, P=0.03 for ALT and P=0.04 for AST, but there was no meaningful difference between the two groups (pâ‰¥0.5). C. intybus can reduce ALT in NAFLD but has no significant impact. ','Non-alcoholic fatty liver disease, Alanine aminotransferase, Cichorium intybus ','The results of this study shows that C. intybus formula can reduce ALT as well as TG, Chol, AST, IGT and FBS in patients with NAFLD and/or NASH; nevertheless, further studies with more study population and longer evaluation time are necessary to better assess the efficacy and safety of C. intybus on NAFLD and/or NASH. ','-','Maryam Nikkhajoei, Rasool Choopani*, Mojgan Tansaz*, Fataneh Hashem-Dabaghian, Ghazaleh Heydarirad*, Shamim Sahranavard and Medi Saberifiroozi (2016). Efficacy of Cichorium intybus on Alanine Aminotransferase in Non- alcoholic Fatty Liver Disease: A Rando'),(61,'2','Epidemiological and Clinical Features of HIV/AIDS Patients Attending to the National Clinic of HIV/AIDS Control, Qazvin, Iran through 2009-2014','Behzad Bijani* and Amir Mohammad Kazemifar**','65 AMIR MOHAMMAD KAZEMIFAR.pdf','',1,'HIV causes a persistent infection. The leading route of infection is intravenous drug addiction in Iran, but sexual transmission is increasing. The aim of the present study was to describe epidemiological and clinical features of patients attending to a National Clinic, Qazvin, Iran. This cross sectional retrospective study was held out by reviewing the patient profiles from 2009 to 2014. Data was registered in a checklist designed for this purpose and then were analyzed. In this study, 24.7 % of patients were female. The mean age of the patients was 33.7Â±5.3 years. 50.6 % of the patients were residents of prisons. The most frequent clinical complaint at the time of diagnosis was pruritic skin eruptions. The main route of infection was intravenous drug addiction (70.1%). 62.3 % of the patients were receiving antiretroviral medication. The most common adverse effects were nausea (27.1%) and thrombocytopenia (20.8%). Ongoing changes in epidemiology of HIV infection merit the continuous','AIDS, epidemiology, adverse reactions.','HIV causes a persistent infection. The leading route of infection is intravenous drug addiction in Iran, but sexual transmission is increasing. The aim of the present study was to describe epidemiological and clinical features of patients attending to a National Clinic, Qazvin, Iran. This cross sectional retrospective study was held out by reviewing the patient profiles from 2009 to 2014. Data was registered in a checklist designed for this purpose and then were analyzed. In this study, 24.7 % of patients were female. The mean age of the patients was 33.7Â±5.3 years. 50.6 % of the patients were residents of prisons. The most frequent clinical complaint at the time of diagnosis was pruritic skin eruptions. The main route of infection was intravenous drug addiction (70.1%). 62.3 % of the patients were receiving antiretroviral medication. The most common adverse effects were nausea (27.1%) and thrombocytopenia (20.8%). Ongoing changes in epidemiology of HIV infection merit the continuous','-','Behzad Bijani and Amir Mohammad Kazemifar (2016). Epidemiological and Clinical Features of HIV/AIDS Patients Attending to the National Clinic of HIV/AIDS Control, Qazvin, Iran through 2009-2014 , Biological Forum â€“ An International Journal 8(1): 460-4'),(62,'2','Effects of Hydro-priming Durations and Water Stress on some Morphological Characteristics of Safflower','Saeid Ghassemi, Iraj Yaghoubian and Mehrdad Moradi','66 SAEID GHASSEMI.pdf','',1,'Seed priming is a technology that positively influence seedling establishment in many crops and may improve field performance under adverse environmental conditions. Therefore, in this research the effect of seed priming durations (0 (P0), 8 (P1) and 16 (P2) hours) on some morphological characteristics of safflower under different irrigation treatments (Irrigation after 60 (I1), 90 (I2), 120 (I3) and 150 (I4) mm evaporation from class A pan) was investigated. Results showed water stress decreased mean of plant height, stem diameter, leaves per plant, branches per plant, capitol per plant and capitol diameter. Hydro-priming increased all of these traits. The highest mean for these traits was recorded for hydro-priming at 16 hours duration period. It was, suggested that this priming duration is the best treatment for invigoration of safflower seeds.','capitol, hydro-priming, plant height, safflower, stemdiameter.','Hydro-priming, especially for 16 hours duration period increased the plant height, stem diameter, leaves per plant, branches per plant, capitol per plant and capitol diameter. That lead to ability of safflower to grow successfully in the field. Therefore, hydro-priming is a simple, low cost and environmentally friendly technique for improving safflower morphological characteristics.','-','Saeid Ghassemi, Iraj Yaghoubian and Mehrdad Moradi (2016). Effects of Hydro-priming Durations and Water Stress on some Morphological Characteristics of Safflower , Biological Forum â€“ An International Journal 8(1): 466-470.'),(63,'2','Saeid Ghassemi, Iraj Yaghoubian and Mehrdad Moradi','Alamdari Elnaz, Niazi Ali, Yarizade Adel, Moghadam Ali and Aram Farzaneh','67 ALI NIAZI.pdf','',1,'','','','',''),(64,'2','First record of Clinostomum complanatum (Trematodes: Clinostomatidae) in Pakistan from Phalacrocorax niger (Aves: Phalacrocoracidae)','Muhammad Moosa Abro, Ali Murtaza Dharejo, Muhammad Munif Khan and Nadir Ali Birmani','68 NADIR ALI BIRMANI.pdf','',1,'During study of helminthic fauna of Little cormorant (Phalacrocorax niger), from Sindh, Pakistan, a total of 90 trematodes belonging to genus Clinostomum were collected from esophagus and gizzard of four hosts. On the basis of body shape and size, distribution of vitellaria, shape and position of testes, ovary and cirrus sac, these trematodes were identified as Clinostomum complanatum (Rud., 1814) Braun, 1899.However, this species of trematode is being reported for the first time in Phalacrocorax niger from Pakistan. ','Trematode, Clinostomum complanatum, Phalacrocorax niger, Sindh, Pakistan.','During study of helminthic fauna of Little cormorant (Phalacrocorax niger), from Sindh, Pakistan, a total of 90 trematodes belonging to genus Clinostomum were collected from esophagus and gizzard of four hosts. On the basis of body shape and size, distribution of vitellaria, shape and position of testes, ovary and cirrus sac, these trematodes were identified as Clinostomum complanatum (Rud., 1814) Braun, 1899.However, this species of trematode is being reported for the first time in Phalacrocorax niger from Pakistan. ','-','Muhammad Moosa Abro, Ali Murtaza Dharejo, Muhammad Munif Khan and Nadir Ali Birmani (2016). First record of Clinostomum complanatum (Trematodes: Clinostomatidae) in Pakistan from Phalacrocorax niger (Aves: Phalacrocoracidae) , Biological Forum â€“ An Inte'),(65,'2','Comparison of AEZ, Wageningen and Albero Models for Maize Potential Production Prediction in Northwest of IRAN','Elham Ghanbarie*, Ali Asghar Jafarzadeh*, Farzin Shahbazi* and Moslem Servati**','69 ELHAM GHANBARIE.pdf','',1,'World population increase and cultivatable land degradation in recent decades, have caused more attention to increasing production in area unit and the land suitability evaluation. In this regard estimation of the yield potential are the most important process. The aim of this study is comparing models of Wageningen, FAO and Albero in determining of Maize yield potential, using corrected and in corrected indices. To achieve these aims the soil morphological, physical and chemical characteristics were studied in10 land units with1100 hectares extension, which have located in East Azarbayjan province between 46Â°37\' 63. 35 \"to 47Â°42\' 30.13\"east longitude and 38Â° 7\' 43.42\" to 38Â° 9\' 24.51\" north latitude. The soils have the aridic moisture regime borders to xeric and mesic temperature regime and were classified in Aridisols order based on keys to soil taxonomy (2014). The calculated coefficient of determination between observed and predicted production in FAO, Wageningen and Albero fr','potential production, AEZ, Wageningen and Albero models.','Calculated determination Coefficient between the observed and productions confirms that the Albero model has higher accuracy than other methods in estimating yield potential at 5% probability level, also the results of comparison of methods accuracy by GSDER index showed higher accuracy of Albero model than other methods. ','-','Elham Ghanbarie, Ali Asghar Jafarzadeh*, Farzin Shahbazi* and Moslem Servati (2016) . Comparison of AEZ, Wageningen and Albero Models for Maize Potential Production Prediction in Northwest of IRAN , Biological Forum â€“ An International Journal 8(1): 484'),(66,'2','1,1-Dimethylbiguanide-Functionalized Magnetic Mesoporous Silica for Magnetic Removal of Cu2+ from water','M. Beygzadeh','70 M. BEYGZADEH 1162 -r.pdf','',1,'A 1,1-Dimethylbiguanide-functionalized magnetic mesoporous silica material (called Fe3O4/mSiO2-Met), was synthesized and determining its efficiency in copper removal from aqueous solutions with the study the effect of pH, contact time, initial concentration of Cu (II) ions and adsorbent dosage in a batch system was investigated. The materials were characterized by X-ray diffraction, TEM, Fe-SEM, N2 adsorption-desorption (BET and BJH), VSM, and FT-IR. The experimental data were analyzed using the Langmuir and Freundlich models of adsorption. The results showed that the adsorption of Cu ions by adsorbent were suitable for Freundlich adsorption isotherm. Adsorbent could be efficiently separated by an external magnetic field from the reaction medium. Furthermore, results showed that adsorbent could be regenerated using HNO3 1 M and used for 4 sequential cycles of adsorption/desorption experiments, without significant loss of removal efficiency. ','Adsorption, Magnetic mesoporous silica, Biguanide, Copper removal, Freundlich isotherm','In this study, a novel biguanide-functionalized mesoporous Fe3O4/mSiO2-Met nanoparticle was prepared for the adsorptive removal of Cu(II) from aqueous solutions. The equilibrium data of adsorption demonstrated good compatibility with Freundlich model. Furthermore, the magnetic adsorbent has large pore volume, superparamagnetism and active adsorptive sites that can be regenerated by simple washing with acid solution and separated from the reaction medium by the external magnetic field.','-','M. Beygzadeh (2016) . 1,1-Dimethylbiguanide-Functionalized Magnetic Mesoporous Silica for Magnetic Removal of Cu2+ from water , Biological Forum â€“ An International Journal 8(1): 493-499.'),(67,'2','Effect of Chemical and Biological Fertilizers on Quantitative and Qualitative Yield of Artichoke (Cynara scolymus L.)','Marziyeh Allahdadi*, Yaghoub Raei**, Babak Bahreininejad***, Akbar Taghizadeh****and Saeid Narimani*****','71 MARZIYEH ALLAHDADI.pdf','',1,'In order to evaluate the effect of different nutritional treatments on forage yield and some qualitative traits of artichoke (Cynara scolymus L.), an experiment was conducted as factorial experiment on the basis of RCBD design with three replications in Isfahan Agriculture and Natural Resources Research Station, Iran during 2014. The first factor consisted of chemical fertilizers at levels of 100% chemical fertilizer (200-100 kgha-1 NP), 50% chemical fertilizer (100-50 kg ha-1 NP), and control. The second factor comprised biofertilizer at levels of 1 liter ha-1 Nitroxin (include Azotobacter, Azospirillium and Pseudomonas), 100 gha-1 Barvar 2 (include Pseudomonas potida and Bacillus lenthus), 1 liter ha-1 Nitroxin +100 gha-1 Barvar 2 and control. The results showed that soil fertilization treatments significantly affected forage quantity and qualitative traits of artichoke. The effects of chemical fertilizers on the majority of traits in artichoke were statically significant, however, t','Artichoke; biofertilizers; forage quality; gas production; integrated plant nutrition system','In this research soil fertilization had a significant effect on forage yield and quality of artichoke. Obtained findings indicated that the soil on the experimental site \r\n\r\n\r\nwas poor and all the fertilization treatments significantly increased forage quality parameters compared to control. The effect of biofertilizers on the majority of traits in artichoke were significant. \r\n \r\n\r\n Allahdadi, Raei, Bahreininejad, Taghizadeh and Narimani 507\r\n \r\nThe best quality and forage yield were obtained in integrated plant nutrition systems. The highest amount of dry forage yield (12.1 t ha-1), crude protein (19.53%), p content (622.2 mg/kg) and organic matter digestibility (86.56%) obtained in integrated application of biofertilizers and chemical fertilizers, particularly, inoculation with Nitroxin + Barvar 2+100 % chemical fertilizers. This study showed synergistic effects of combined inoculation of PGPRs. Totally','-','Marziyeh Allahdadi, Yaghoub Raei, Babak Bahreininejad, Akbar Taghizadeh and Saeid Narimani (2016) . Effect of Chemical and Biological Fertilizers on Quantitative and Qualitative Yield of Artichoke (Cynara scolymus L.) , Biological Forum â€“ An Internation'),(68,'2','Callus Induction and Plant Regeneration of Spilanthes acmella M. an Ornamental and Medicinal Herb','Nasrin Nasr','72 NASRIN NASR.pdf','',1,'Spilanthes acmella M is an important ornamental cum medicinal plant. In order to investigate the effects of different concentrations, different explants, and combinations of growth regulators on callus induction and plant regeneration of Spilanthes acmella M. Leaf explants were inoculated onto MS medium supplemented with different concentrations of Î±-naphthalene acetic acid (NAA), 2,4-dichlorophenoxy acetic acid (2,4-D), indol acetic acid (IAA) and benzyl adenine (BA) alone and auxins in combinations with BA for callus induction. Callus initiation was observed in all media evaluated and the highest callus formation (0.29 Â± 0.03 mg) was obtained from explants cultivated in the presence of IAA alone at 10 ÂµM in nodal explant or 15 ÂµM BA + 5 ÂµM 2,4-D (0.33 Â± 0.039 mg) in combination. Maximum shoot induction (81 %) and highest number of shoot per callus was obtained from callus induced on 15 ÂµM BA + 5 ÂµM 2,4-D three weeks after transferring the callus to a MS medium supplemented wi','Callus induction, plant regeneration, shoot induction, Spilanthes acmella.','In this study, a protocol was established for callus induction and plant regeneration from the organogenic calli. In conclusion, calli were successfully induced from all three explants and the procedure for plant regeneration from induced calli has been developed. The analysis of data indicates that proliferation of callus in media with different growth regulator with different concentration of phytohormones was varied and the callus induction was mainly depended on growth regulator type and present of cytokinin in media containing auxin. However if multiplication of selected clones for further studies is required, leaf explants could be cultured on MS medium supplemented 15 ÂµM BA + 5 ÂµM 2,4-D. Organogenesis in S. acmella M. proved to be controlled by the ratio of cytokinin /auxin in the medium. Our result showed that the medium supplemented with only BA induced shoots from compact callus in less frequency whereas higher percentage of shoot proliferation obtained with callus explants','-','Nasrin Nasr (2016). Callus Induction and Plant Regeneration of Spilanthes acmella M. an Ornamental and Medicinal Herb , Biological Forum â€“ An International Journal 8(1): 509-517.'),(69,'2','A Review of Anti oxidant Effects of the Ethanol Extract of the Medicinal Plant Carla (Momordica charantia) Cultivated in Northern Region of Iran (Mazandaran-Simorgh city)','Nasrin Nasr* and Ghazal Pirani**','73 NASRIN NASR 1167.pdf','',1,'Carla (Momordica charantia) is one of medicinal plants found in tropic regions which has anti diabetic effect, anti blood fat effect and so on. Since one of consumable parts of this plant, i.e. its fruit is useful against diabetes in the form of Capsules or herbal tea; we collected it from the north of Iran (Mazandaran province-Simorgh city) for this study and after identification used it for producing ethanol extract. Extraction process was carried out by the soaking method. The resulting extracts were solvent-removed and degreased. Studying the anti oxidant effects of the ethanol extract was measured using DPPH method and also phenol and flavonoid content and regenerative strength of iron. Results indicated that the ethanol extract of the plant with IC50 = 250 mg/ml has anti oxidant effects, and also phenol and flavonoid were 28.6Â±0.2 mg/ml and 19.93Â±0.1 mg/ml respectively. As a result, the ethanol extract of Carla plant causes extraction of high levels of total phenol that inhibit','anti oxidant, extract, Carla, diabetes','Carla (Momordica charantia) is one of medicinal plants found in tropic regions which has anti diabetic effect, anti blood fat effect and so on. Since one of consumable parts of this plant, i.e. its fruit is useful against diabetes in the form of Capsules or herbal tea; we collected it from the north of Iran (Mazandaran province-Simorgh city) for this study and after identification used it for producing ethanol extract. Extraction process was carried out by the soaking method. The resulting extracts were solvent-removed and degreased. Studying the anti oxidant effects of the ethanol extract was measured using DPPH method and also phenol and flavonoid content and regenerative strength of iron. Results indicated that the ethanol extract of the plant with IC50 = 250 mg/ml has anti oxidant effects, and also phenol and flavonoid were 28.6Â±0.2 mg/ml and 19.93Â±0.1 mg/ml respectively. As a result, the ethanol extract of Carla plant causes extraction of high levels of total phenol that inhibit','-','Nasrin Nasr and Ghazal Pirani (2016) . A Review of Anti oxidant Effects of the Ethanol Extract of the Medicinal Plant Carla (Momordica charantia) Cultivated in Northern Region of Iran (Mazandaran-Simorgh city) , Biological Forum â€“ An International Journ'),(70,'2','Influence of Growth Regulators on Organogenesis of Unshiu mandarin','Influence of Growth Regulators on Organogenesis of Unshiu mandarin','74 ARMIN MASHAYEKHAN.pdf','',1,'Virus-free plants is very important in citrus breeding program. This study was conducted to evaluate the Influence of growth regulators on Unshiu mandarin (Citrus unshiuowari) seed rganogenesis at in vitro conditions in 2014, in a completely randomized design with three replications. In this study treatments, including 9 levels of hormones (control, BA-1, BA-2, GA-1, GA-2, IBA-0.25, IBA-0.5, NAA-0.25, NAA-0.5), respectively. In order to measure traits during development stages of randomly sampling and measurement were conducted and analyzed. Most of the highest (3.25 and 3.05 cm)to 2 mg/l GA and 1 mg/l GA respectively, the maximum length of the root (7.12 and 7.02 cm) to 0.5 mg/l NAA and IBA, the largest number of root (9.75) to 0.5 mg per liter of IBA, the largest number of shoot (1.5) corresponds to 2 mg/l and BA, the highest percentage of callus induction (70%) of the NAA was 0.5 mg .','Unshiu mandarin, Callus induction, GA, Germination.','Virus-free plants is very important in citrus breeding program. This study was conducted to evaluate the Influence of growth regulators on Unshiu mandarin (Citrus unshiuowari) seed rganogenesis at in vitro conditions in 2014, in a completely randomized design with three replications. In this study treatments, including 9 levels of hormones (control, BA-1, BA-2, GA-1, GA-2, IBA-0.25, IBA-0.5, NAA-0.25, NAA-0.5), respectively. In order to measure traits during development stages of randomly sampling and measurement were conducted and analyzed. Most of the highest (3.25 and 3.05 cm)to 2 mg/l GA and 1 mg/l GA respectively, the maximum length of the root (7.12 and 7.02 cm) to 0.5 mg/l NAA and IBA, the largest number of root (9.75) to 0.5 mg per liter of IBA, the largest number of shoot (1.5) corresponds to 2 mg/l and BA, the highest percentage of callus induction (70%) of the NAA was 0.5 mg .','-','Influence of Growth Regulators on Organogenesis of Unshiu mandarin (2016). Influence of Growth Regulators on Organogenesis of Unshiu mandarin , Biological Forum â€“ An International Journal 8(1): 522-525.'),(71,'2','Evaluation Reaction of some Wheat Cultivars to take-all Disease (Gaeumannomyces graminis var Tritici)','Masoud Khanahmadi*, Fereshteh Bayat* and Fatemeh Jamali**','75 FERESHTEH BAYAT.pdf','',1,'Take-all caused by the soil-borne fungal pathogen Gaeumannomyces graminis (Ggt) is one of the most destructive root diseases in wheat and other cereal grain crops in the world. Ten wheat varieties were evaluated for their susceptibility to take-all (Ggt) at the seedling stage in a five week pot test. The dilute artificial inoculum was prepared by mixing the sand/maize-meal inoculums with silver sand. Ten seeds of each variety were placed on the soil surface of a pot and covered with a thin layer of horticultural grit. The factorial experiment with completely randomized design with five replicates was set up. After 5 weeks the plants were removed and their roots washed out with water and the percentage of plants and roots infection was then calculated. Based on the percentage of necrosis roots disease severity was scored. Also root and shoot length, root and shoot fresh/dry weight were measured. Statistical analysis indicated significant differences at 1% level between the wheat species','Wheat, take all, Gaeumannomyces gramini, germplasm.','Take-all caused by the soil-borne fungal pathogen Gaeumannomyces graminis (Ggt) is one of the most destructive root diseases in wheat and other cereal grain crops in the world. Ten wheat varieties were evaluated for their susceptibility to take-all (Ggt) at the seedling stage in a five week pot test. The dilute artificial inoculum was prepared by mixing the sand/maize-meal inoculums with silver sand. Ten seeds of each variety were placed on the soil surface of a pot and covered with a thin layer of horticultural grit. The factorial experiment with completely randomized design with five replicates was set up. After 5 weeks the plants were removed and their roots washed out with water and the percentage of plants and roots infection was then calculated. Based on the percentage of necrosis roots disease severity was scored. Also root and shoot length, root and shoot fresh/dry weight were measured. Statistical analysis indicated significant differences at 1% level between the wheat species','-','Masoud Khanahmadi, Fereshteh Bayat and Fatemeh Jamali (2016). Evaluation Reaction of some Wheat Cultivars to take-all Disease (Gaeumannomyces graminis var Tritici) , Biological Forum â€“ An International Journal 8(1): 526-531.'),(72,'2','Putrescine Foliar Application effect on Physiologic and Morphologic Characteristics of Wheat (Tiriticum aestivum var sw-82-9 ) under Water Deficit Stress','Zahra Karimi','76 ZAHRA KARIMI.pdf','',1,'Water deficit stress is one of the most important environmental stress factors that affect all crop physiological and biochemical processes. In this study, putrescine (Put) foliar application (0, 75 and 150 ppm) was investigated on physiologic and morphologic characteristics of wheat (Tiriticum aestivum var sw-82-9) under different levels of water stress as complete randomized experiment in 12 treatment and 3 replication. All experimental traits affected significantly by withholding in irrigation at different growth stages. The grain yield was decreased as result of withholding in irrigation at stem elongation, flowering and seed filling period stages. Withholding in irrigation in different growth stages decreased number of grains per spike, thousand grain weight, total chlorophyll contents and relative water content, whereas increased grain protein, proline content, and electrical conductivity of leaf. Putrescine foliar application specially 150 ppm concentration prevented degradation','Putrescine, Wheat, Physiologic characteristics, Water deficit Stress','Putrescine foliar application significantly increased grain yield, protein percent, HI, and E.C of wheat leaf under water deficit stress which could be applicable in prevention of economic losses and refinement of crop productivity','-','Zahra Karimi (2016). Putrescine Foliar Application effect on Physiologic and Morphologic Characteristics of Wheat (Tiriticum aestivum var sw-82-9 ) under Water Deficit Stress , Biological Forum â€“ An International Journal 8(1): 532-539.'),(73,'2','Status of Plant Diversity along an Altitudinal Gradient in Dankund Beat of Kalatop Khajjiar Wild Life Sanctuary of District Chamba, Himachal Pradesh','R.K. Verma','77 RK VERMA.pdf','',1,'A study was conducted to understand the plant diversity along an altitudinal gradient with elevations varying from 2200-2600m above msl in Dankund beat of Kalatop Khajjiar wild life sanctuary in district Chamba, Himachal Pradesh during 2011. Total number of plant species was 102 belonging to 54 families and 95 genera. The dominant families were Asteraceae, Rosaceae, and Fabaceae. The number of tree species at 2200-2400m and 2400-2600 m was 12 and 4 with dominance of Cedrus deodara and Picea smithiana respectively. The number of shrub species was 27 and 10 with the dominance of Sorbaria tomentosa and Vibernum erubescens in the elevation of 2200-2400m and 2400-2600 m respectively. The number of herb species was 52 and 53 with the dominance of Valeriana jatamansii and Erigeron multiradiatus respectively. The distribution pattern of most of the plant species was contiguous in both the altitudes. Index of diversity for herb species was 3.167 and 3.200 for 2200-2400m and 2400-2600 m elevati','Plant diversity, Dominance, Diversity index, Conservation, Distribution.','A study was conducted to understand the plant diversity along an altitudinal gradient with elevations varying from 2200-2600m above msl in Dankund beat of Kalatop Khajjiar wild life sanctuary in district Chamba, Himachal Pradesh during 2011. Total number of plant species was 102 belonging to 54 families and 95 genera. The dominant families were Asteraceae, Rosaceae, and Fabaceae. The number of tree species at 2200-2400m and 2400-2600 m was 12 and 4 with dominance of Cedrus deodara and Picea smithiana respectively. The number of shrub species was 27 and 10 with the dominance of Sorbaria tomentosa and Vibernum erubescens in the elevation of 2200-2400m and 2400-2600 m respectively. The number of herb species was 52 and 53 with the dominance of Valeriana jatamansii and Erigeron multiradiatus respectively. The distribution pattern of most of the plant species was contiguous in both the altitudes. Index of diversity for herb species was 3.167 and 3.200 for 2200-2400m and 2400-2600 m elevati','-','R.K. Verma (2016). Status of Plant Diversity along an Altitudinal Gradient in Dankund Beat of Kalatop Khajjiar Wild Life Sanctuary of District Chamba, Himachal Pradesh , Biological Forum â€“ An International Journal 8(1): 540-547.'),(74,'2','Identification of New Bioactive Compounds from Fruit of Abutilon indicum through GCMS Analysis','Sidharth Tiwari* , Saumya Mishra**, Dharm Raj Misra* and Richa Upadhyay***','78 RICHA UPADHYAY.pdf','',1,'Abutilon indicum (L.) commonly known as Kaghi in Hindi and Atibala in Sanskrit is an important medicinal plant of family Malvaceae. It is used as source of drug since ancient period and mentioned as Bhav Prakash and Raj-Nighantu in Ayurveda, Unani and Siddha system of medicines. The plant is used in the treatment of piles, gonorrhea, diabeties, ulcer, urinary disorders and many more health complications. In present study, the ethanolic extract of A. indicum fruit was subjected to Gas chromatography Mass spectroscopy (GCMS) analysis and thirteen new compounds have been identified. Some of these identified compounds are reported to possess significant medicinal applications. The present study led to the identification of medicinally important compounds from the fruit of A. indicum which could be used as lead compound for the manufacture of herbal drug. ','Abutilon indicum, Bioactive compounds, GCMS','Abutilon indicum (L.) commonly known as Kaghi in Hindi and Atibala in Sanskrit is an important medicinal plant of family Malvaceae. It is used as source of drug since ancient period and mentioned as Bhav Prakash and Raj-Nighantu in Ayurveda, Unani and Siddha system of medicines. The plant is used in the treatment of piles, gonorrhea, diabeties, ulcer, urinary disorders and many more health complications. In present study, the ethanolic extract of A. indicum fruit was subjected to Gas chromatography Mass spectroscopy (GCMS) analysis and thirteen new compounds have been identified. Some of these identified compounds are reported to possess significant medicinal applications. The present study led to the identification of medicinally important compounds from the fruit of A. indicum which could be used as lead compound for the manufacture of herbal drug. ','-','Sidharth Tiwari , Saumya Mishra, Dharm Raj Misra* and Richa Upadhyay (2016). Identification of New Bioactive Compounds from Fruit of Abutilon indicum through GCMS Analysis, Biological Forum â€“ An International Journal 8(1): 548-554.'),(75,'2','The Effects of AgrizimÂ® on Seedlings of Apple Cultivars','Mehdi Abbassi* and Bahman Panahi**','79 BAHMAN PANAHI.pdf','',1,'Apple is one of the important horticultural crops of the world. It is cultivated in most provinces of Iran as well. However, the calcareous feature of the most of soils in Iran, and lack of accurate nutrition management are among the problems of orchards cultivation. Today, using some amendments in soils has become accustomed. Accordingly, a factorial greenhouse experiment in form of complete random design was conducted with two factors including type of cultivar (Red Delicious & Golden Delicious) as the first factor, and different levels of AgrizimÂ® application (0, 10, 20, 40 & 80 grams in a pot) as the second factor, in four replicates. After applying the treatments during the growth stages, factors of rate of leaf\'s elements (nitrogen, phosphorus, potassium, iron and zinc), stem length, stem diameter, stem dry weight, and number of buds were evaluated, and the following results were obtained. The effect of applying cultivar and AgrizimÂ® application treatments was significant on th','Apple, Cultivar, Golden Delicious, Red Delicious, nutrients, AgrizimÂ®.','According to the results obtained from this research it can be said that applying AgrizimÂ® in levels of 10 to 20g in pot results in improved morphological properties and seedlings\' growth of golden and red apple cultivars. \r\n \r\n\r\n\r\n\r\n Abbassi and Panahi 558\r\n \r\nIn addition, applying AgrizimÂ® in higher levels, especially 80g in pot, not only has no remarkable effect on seedlings\' growth and absorption, but also in some cases reduced the properties under study in compare to the control. Accordingly, considering the calcareous feature of the soils under seedling cultivation in most regions of this Country, especially in arid areas, this compound (AgrizimÂ®) can be used as a soil amendment by the appropriate level of 20g in a pot. \r\n','-','Mehdi Abbassi* and Bahman Panahi (2016). The Effects of AgrizimÂ® on Seedlings of Apple Cultivars , Biological Forum â€“ An International Journal 8(1): 555-558.'),(76,'3','Fixed Point Results in Complete Random Convex Metric Spaces','Nidhi Gargav*, Rajesh Shrivastava** and Rizwana Jamal***','1 NIDHI GARGAV 1011.pdf','',1,'','','','',''),(77,'3','Common fixed point theorem Satisfying Generalized Contractive Conditions of integral type in intuitionistic fuzzy metric spaces ','Aarti Sugandhi*, Sandeep Kumar Tiwari* and Aklesh Pariya** ','2 AARTI SUGANDHI 1013.pdf','',1,'','','','',''),(78,'3','Character association and Path analysis of Seed Yield and its Yield Components in Black gram (Vigna mungo (L.) Hepper)','S. Jyothsna, T.S.S.K Patro*, S. Ashok, Y. Sandhya Rani and B. Neeraja','3 SAMUEL PATRO 1014.pdf','',1,'','','','',''),(79,'3','Optimization of Process Parameters for Metal Ion Remediation using Agricultural Waste materials','Umesh K. Garg* and Harish K. Garg** ','4 UMESH K. GARG AND HARISH GARG.pdf','',1,'','','','',''),(80,'3','Studies on Genetic Parameters, Character Association and Path Analysis of Yield and its Components in Finger Millet (Eluesine Coracana L. Gaertn)','S. Jyothsna, T.S.S.K Patro, S. Ashok, Y. Sandhya Rani and B. Neeraja ','5 SAMUEL PATRO 1015.pdf','',1,'','','','',''),(81,'3','Character Association and Path analysis of Seed Yield and its Yield Components in Green gram (Vigna radiata)','S. Jyothsna, T.S.S.K Patro*, S. Ashok, Y. Sandhya Rani and B. Neeraja ','6 SAMUEL PATRO 1016.pdf','',1,'','','','',''),(82,'3','X-ray Analysis for Purification Process of Synthesized Multi-Walled Carbon Nanotubes by Chemical Vapor Deposition','Firas H. Abdulrazzak*, Shahad K Esmail*, Halimah A. Dawod*, Ahmed M. Abbas** and Mustafa K. K. Almaliki* ','7 FIRAS H. ABDULRAZZAK 1020.pdf','',1,'','','','',''),(83,'3','Analytical Method Development and Validation for Assay of Benzbromarone Drug of Uricosuric Agent Category','M.B. Durgavale and M.D. Rokade ','8 GANESH HOLKAR @ MD ROKADE 1019.pdf','',1,'','','','',''),(84,'4','Critical Success Factors in Agile Software Development Projects: A Review ','Navneet Kaur and Gurpreet Singh','1 NAVNEET KAUR.pdf','',0,'','','','',''),(85,'4','Critical Success Factors in Agile Software Development Projects: A Review ','Navneet Kaur and Gurpreet Singh','1 NAVNEET KAUR.pdf','',1,'','','','',''),(86,'4','An Experimental Study on Strength of Concrete by Partial Replacement of Cement with Foundry Sand ','Krishan Singla* and Ravi Kant Pareek**','2 KRISHAN SINGLA AND RAVI KANT PAREEK.pdf','',1,'','','','',''),(87,'4','Decolourizing of Distillery Spent Wash Using Indigenously Prepared Cation Exchanger from the Agricultural Waste (Wheat Straw)','Deepak Arora* , Vijay Sharma* and Umesh Kumar Garg**','3 UMESH KUMAR GARG 815.pdf','',1,'','','','',''),(88,'4','Rail-To-Rail Low Power Buffer Amplifier LCD ','Depak Mishra* and Dr. Archana Sharma**','4 DEPAK MISHERA AND DR ARCHANA SHARMA.pdf','',1,'','','','',''),(89,'4','A Review of Structure & Performance of Thermal Power Plant Controllers ','Roopa Sampath*, Sukhdeep. S. Dhami** and Suresh Srivastava***','5 ROOPA SAMPATH 816.pdf','',1,'','','','',''),(90,'4','Performance of Extended Inlet and Extended Outlet Tube on Single Expansion Chamber for Noise Reduction','Amit Kumar Gupta','6 AMIT KUMAR GUPTA 818.pdf','',1,'','','','',''),(91,'4','An Overview of Numerical Investigation of Nanofluids for Enhancement of Heat Transfer in Circular Tubes','Mohamad Mosavi, Dr. Hosein Nouri Bidgoli and Dr. Ahmad Fakhar','7 MOHAMAD MOSAVI.pdf','',1,'','','','',''),(92,'4','Optimizing Energy Consumption and Energy Analysis in KHDS unit of Tehran Oil Refinery','Mohamad Mosavi','8 MOHAMAD MOSAVI.pdf','',1,'','','','',''),(93,'4','Optimization of Energy Consumption and Energy Analysis in KHDS and GHDS units of Tehran Oil Refinery','Mohamad Mosavi, Dr. Hosein Nouri Bidgoli and Dr. Ahmad Fakhar','10 M MOSAVI.pdf','',1,'','','','',''),(94,'4','Production of Dissolved Oxygen due to Presence of Algae in Hilly Streamâ€“A Case Study','D.K. Gautam* and M.R. Sharma**','11 DK GAUTAM AND DR MR SHARMA.pdf','',1,'','','','',''),(95,'4','Effect on Compressive Strength of Demolised Concete','Mohit*, Sunil Tushir* and Gaurav Kumar**','12 MOHIT.pdf','',1,'','','','',''),(96,'4','Effect of Rice Husk Ash on Split Tensile Strength of Concrete','Sunil Tushir*, Mohit* and Gaurav Kumar**','13 SUNIL TUSHIR.pdf','',1,'','','','',''),(97,'4','Experimental Investigation of Machining EN 31 Steel under Cryogenic Machining: A Comparison with Dry Machining','Sandeep Kumar*, Kulbhusahan Sharma*, Munish Kumar** and Aditya Sharma***','14 SANDEEP KUMAR.pdf','',1,'','','','',''),(98,'4','Exploring Education and Women Empowerment for Collective Enlargement of Society','Sandeep Kumar*, Kulbhusahan Sharma*, Munish Kumar** and Aditya Sharma***','15 SUMAN SINGH.pdf','',1,'','','','',''),(99,'4','A Review on Cryogenic Machining of EN 31 Steel: A Comparison with Dry Machining','Sandeep Kumar*, Kulbhusahan Sharma* and Munish Kumar**','16 SANDEEP KUMAR.pdf','',1,'','','','',''),(100,'5','A Quantitative Study on Critical Success Factors in Agile Software Development Projects','Navneet Kaur and Gurpreet Singh','1 NAVNEET KAUR 1015.pdf','',1,'','','','',''),(101,'5','Adaptive Load Detection Technique for Effective Virtual Machine Consolidation','Prof. Anand Motwani*, Sayed Qudsiyanaz Rafique**, Dr. P. N. Singh*** and Prof. Jyoti Sondhi****','2 SAYED QUDSIYANAZ RAFIQUE 1016.pdf','',1,'','','','',''),(102,'5','Survey on Carry Look Ahead Adder','Poornima Shrivastava* , Prof. Balram Yadav** and Prof Bharti Chourasia**','3 POORNIMA SHRIVASTAVA 817.pdf','',1,'','','','',''),(103,'5','A Rule Based Mechanism to Mitigate the Packet Dropping in Mobile Ad hoc Network','Akanksha Khare* and Pushpraj Singh Chauhan**','4 AKANKSHA KHARE 1012.pdf','',1,'','','','',''),(104,'5','Feature Selection/Reduction and Classification in large Datasets using Data Mining Concepts: A Review','Sankia Mishra* and Prof. Dr. Vineet Richhariya**','5 SANKIA MISHRA 1018.pdf','',1,'','','','',''),(105,'5','Optimized AODV Routing for Effective Attack Security in Wireless Sensor Networks','Anand Motwani* and Vimal Dhote**','6 ANAND MOTWANI 1020.pdf','',1,'','','','',''),(106,'5','Enhancement in Sharing of Records on Secure Cloud using Advanced Encryption Standard and RSA','Monika* and Gurpreet Kaur**','7 MONIKA AND GURPREET KAUR.pdf','',1,'','','','',''),(107,'5','Optimized Systolic Array Design for Median Filter in Image Filtration','A. N. Pimpale* and Porf. Anoop Khambra**\r\n','8 A. N. PIMPALE.pdf','',1,'','','','',''),(108,'5','Profit Based Data Center Service Broker Policy for Cloud Resource Provisioning','Anand Motwani*, Rakhi Chaturvedi** and Anurag Shrivastava***','9 RAKHI CHATURVEDI.pdf','',1,'','','','',''),(109,'5','An Effective Algorithm on Image Steganography by using LSB','Harshal Badgujar*, Shiva Bhatnagar** and Ankit Chouhan**','10 HARSHAL BADGUJAR 1023.pdf','',1,'','','','',''),(110,'5','A Review of Three Level Inverters for Renewable Energy Resources System','Anurag Shrivastava and Prof. Ashfaque Khan','11 ANURAG SHRIVASTAVA.pdf','',1,'','','','',''),(111,'5','An Efficient K-Means Clustering based Annotation Search from Web Databases','Anshul Tiwari* and Kiran Agrawal**','12 ANSHUL TIWARI.pdf','',1,'','','','',''),(112,'5','Control Techniques used to Improve Performance of Dc-Dc Converter: A Review','Abhilash Kumar* and Vinay Pathak**','13 ABHILASH KUMAR.pdf','',1,'','','','',''),(113,'5','Review on Design and Implementation using Cosine control Scheme in Firing Circuit','Abhimanyu Kumar * and Vinay Pathak**','14 ABHIMANYU KUMAR.pdf','',1,'','','','',''),(114,'6','A Comparative Economic Analysis of Poverty Alleviation in the Pre and Post Reforms in India: A Synoptic Review','Reyaz Ahmad Pandit* and Sudhir Sharma**','1 REYAZ AHMAD PANDIT 1014.pdf','',1,'','','','',''),(115,'6','A Study on the Anxiety of Secondary School Students for Learning of English in Himachal Pradesh (With the Special Reference of Mandi District)','Dr. Shruti Agrawal*, Ram Krishan Thakur** and Dr. Pawan Thakur***','2 Dr Shruti Agarwal and Pawan Thakur.pdf','',1,'','','','',''),(116,'6','Education a Prospect for Social Development: Critical study on Women Education','Mrs. Suman Singh, Prof. Kalika Yadav and Dr. S.K. Singh','3 SUMAN SINGH 1017.pdf','',1,'','','','',''),(117,'7','Ampelomyces quisqualis - a remarkable mycoparasite on Xanthium strumarium powdery mildew from Himachal Pradesh India\r\n','Ajay Kumar Gautam* and Shubhi Avasthi**','1 JNBR_5(1) _2016.pdf','',1,'','','','',''),(118,'7','New records of testate amoebae (Protozoa: Rhizopoda) of the genera Arcella and Difflugia from India ','Bindu. L* and Jasmine Purushothaman**','2 JNBR_5(1) _2016.pdf','',1,'','','','',''),(119,'7','Biodeterioration of wall and roof in historic building and monuments in Lucknow city Uttar Pradesh','Gaurav K. Mishra* and D.C. Saini','3 JNBR_5(1) _2016.pdf','',1,'','','','',''),(120,'7','Distribution patterns of epiphytic lichens in Kumaun Himalaya, Uttarakhand','Gaurav K. Mishra* and D.C. Saini','4 JNBR_5(1) _2016.pdf','',1,'','','','',''),(121,'7','Diversity of Butterflies in Karhandla Region of Umred-Karhandla Wildlife Sanctuary, Maharashtra, India','Pawan U. Gajbe','5_JNBR_5(1)_2016.pdf','',1,'','','','',''),(122,'7','Beneficial Effects of Arbuscular Mycorrhizal Fungi on Underground Modified Stem Propagule Plants','Rafiq Lone*, Razia Shuab , Nazir Ahmad Malla Gautam , K. K. Koul','6_JNBR_5(1)_2016.pdf','',1,'','','','',''),(123,'7','Hyphomycetes diversity of Himachal Pradesh-I','I. B. Prasher and Rajnish Kumar Verma*','7_JNBR_5(1)_2016.pdf','',1,'','','','',''),(124,'7','Arbuscular Mycorrhizal Fungal Symbiosis with saffron (Crocus sativus L.) Plant','Razia Shuab , Nazir Ahmad Malla , Javaid Ahmad*,Rafiq Lone, K. K. Koul','8_JNBR_5(1)_2016.pdf','',1,'','','','',''),(125,'2','Water Quality Assessment of Gobind Sagar Lake during Rainy Season in Himachal Pradesh, India','Vandana Sharma* and Yogesh Kumar Walia**','80 VANDANA SHARMA AND DR YOGESH WALIA 1164.pdf','',1,'This study was undertaken to determine the physico-chemical properties and heavy metals in water samples collected from Gobind Sagar Lake during Rainy Season in Himachal Pradesh, India. Water quality parameters and heavy metals were Water Temperature; pH; Conductivity; Total Alkalinity; Chemical Oxygen Demands; Dissolved Oxygen; Chloride; Total Hardness; Calcium Hardness; Magnesium Hardness; Dissolved Carbon Dioxide; Total Dissolved Solid; Biological Oxygen Demand; Cadmium; Copper; Chromium; Zinc; Nickel; Calcium; Lead; Manganese and Iron. The results revealed that the different conditions of Gobind Sagar Lake at different sampling stations showed fluctuations in some physico-chemical parameters and also in heavy metals. These result depicted that lake water was polluted at some of sampling stations due to bathing activities, boating activities, joining of sewage, agricultural activities and its runoff in and around the catchment area of Gobind Sagar Lake. ','Water quality, physico-chemical, heavy metals, water parameters and Gobind Sagar Lake, water quality.','This study was undertaken to determine the physico-chemical properties and heavy metals in water samples collected from Gobind Sagar Lake during Rainy Season in Himachal Pradesh, India. Water quality parameters and heavy metals were Water Temperature; pH; Conductivity; Total Alkalinity; Chemical Oxygen Demands; Dissolved Oxygen; Chloride; Total Hardness; Calcium Hardness; Magnesium Hardness; Dissolved Carbon Dioxide; Total Dissolved Solid; Biological Oxygen Demand; Cadmium; Copper; Chromium; Zinc; Nickel; Calcium; Lead; Manganese and Iron. The results revealed that the different conditions of Gobind Sagar Lake at different sampling stations showed fluctuations in some physico-chemical parameters and also in heavy metals. These result depicted that lake water was polluted at some of sampling stations due to bathing activities, boating activities, joining of sewage, agricultural activities and its runoff in and around the catchment area of Gobind Sagar Lake. ','-','Vandana Sharma and Yogesh Kumar Walia (2016). Water Quality Assessment of Gobind Sagar Lake during Rainy Season in Himachal Pradesh, India , Biological Forum â€“ An International Journal 8(1): 559-564.'),(126,'5','MATLAB Simulation for Combination of Battery and Supercapacitor','A.A. Deosant, M.R. Shelke and V.G. Umale','15 M.R. SHELKE.pdf','',1,'','','','',''),(127,'5','Location Marginal Based Transmission Pricing in Restructured Power System','V.G. Umale*, Dr. S.B. Warkad**, M.R. Shelke*** and A.A. Deosant***','16 MANGESH SHELKE.pdf','',1,'','','','',''),(128,'7','AMâ€“leguminous crop plants interaction in the natural and environmentally degraded ecosystemâ€“a case study','Vineeta Sharma','9_JNBR_5(1)_2016.pdf','',1,'','','','',''),(129,'8','Diversity of conidial fungus Periconia associated with Asclepiadaceae','Shambhu Kumar1* , Raghvendra Singh2','1_JNBR_5(2)_2016.pdf','',1,'','','','',''),(130,'8','Hyphomycetes diversity of Himachal Pradesh-II','I. B. Prasher, Sushma and Rajnish Kumar Verma*','2_JNBR_5(2)_2016.pdf','',1,'','','','',''),(131,'8','Sighting of Red-Breasted Parakeet Psittacula alexandri (Linnaeus, 1758) at Hyderabad, Telangana, Southern India','G. Surender1 , B. Laxmi Narayana1*, K. Swamy1 Rao1 & Mahesh Iyer2','3_JNBR_5(2)_2016.pdf','',1,'','','','',''),(132,'8','Duttaphrynus stomaticus (Marbled Toad) (Coracias benghalensis) from Central Aravalli Avian Predation by Indian Roller foothills, Rajasthan','Vivek Sharma*, N.K.Kumawat, D. Yadav, O. Dhawal, K.K. Sharma','4_JNBR_5(2)_2016.pdf','',1,'','','','',''),(133,'4','Modeling and Simulation of Firing Circuit using Cosine Control System','Abhimanyu Kumar* and Vinay Pathak**','17 ABHIMANYU KUMAR.pdf','',1,'','','','',''),(134,'4','Advance Control Techniques for Dc-Dc Buck Converter in Improvement of Performance','Abhilash Kumar* and Vinay Pathak**','18 ABHILASH KUMAR.pdf','',1,'','','','',''),(135,'4','Optimization of Manufacturing Process of DC Traction Motor Magnet Frames by using CNC Horizontal Machining Centre','Prabir Kumar Basak* and C. M. Sadiwala**','19 PRABIR KUMAR BASAK.pdf','',1,'','','','',''),(136,'9','Monitoring of Variability in Wheat Rust Pathogens by International Trap Nurseries','K. Natsarishvili, Z. Sikharulidze and T. Tsetskhladze','1 K. NATSARISHVILI Monitoring of Variability in Wheat Rust Pathogens by International Trap Nurseries.pdf','',1,'Protection of wheat from rust diseases caused by Puccinia spp. has very special significance for Georgia. The resistance to wheat stem, leaf and yellow rusts of 415 wheat cultivars and advanced breeding lines, consisted in 7st IYRTN and 8thIYRTN, 8th ISRTN and 9th ISRTN, and 5th ILRTN as well, were studied under natural infection in 2013-2014 years in different geographic zones of Georgia and important resistance sources including the cultivars with different Sr, Yr and Lr-resistance genes have been revealed.','Wheat, Yellow rust, Resistance, Trap nurseries, Severity.','Protection of wheat from rust diseases caused by Puccinia spp. has very special significance for Georgia. The resistance to wheat stem, leaf and yellow rusts of 415 wheat cultivars and advanced breeding lines, consisted in 7st IYRTN and 8thIYRTN, 8th ISRTN and 9th ISRTN, and 5th ILRTN as well, were studied under natural infection in 2013-2014 years in different geographic zones of Georgia and important resistance sources including the cultivars with different Sr, Yr and Lr-resistance genes have been revealed.','-','K. Natsarishvili, Z. Sikharulidze and T. Tsetskhladze (2016). Monitoring of Variability in Wheat Rust Pathogens by International Trap Nurseries , Biological Forum â€“ An International Journal 8(2): 01-03(2016) .'),(137,'9','Process Optimization for Recovery of Zein (A Valuable Maize Protein) From Corn Meal and Corn Gluten Meal using Microbial Enzymatic Hydrolysis','Sampy Duggal and Dinesh Kumar','2 DINESH KUMAR 1182 Process Optimization for Recovery of Zein _A Valuable Maize Protein_ From Corn Meal and Corn Gluten Meal using Microbial Enzymatic Hydrolysis.pdf','',1,'In present study Bajaura Makka a corn variety of H.P., India was used for preparation of corn meal (CM) and corn gluten meal (CGM). Both CM and CGM were analyzed for total protein, carbohydrate and fat in the initial substrate and used further for enzymatic treatment individually with protease (Bacillus sp.), amylase (Aspergillus oryzae) and lipase (Aspergillus niger). All enzyme treatments with CM and CGM (100mg/ml w/v) were carried out at pH6.0-10.0 and in all treatments the protein, sugar and zein release was optimum at pH 9.0. In protease treated CM and CGM, 0.174 mg and 0.132 mg of protein, 0.006mg and 0.010mg of reducing sugar was determined with spectrophotometric method. Whereas, in protease treated CM & CGM, 5.01% and 4.81% (w/w) zein respectively was detected with HPLC. Treatment of CM and CGM with amylase resulted in 0.780mg and 0.486mg of protein, 0.326 mg and 0.576mg of reducing sugar and 6.47% and 3.80% of zein release respectively. With lipase treatment 0.202mg and 0.240','Bajaura Makka, corn meal (CM), corn gluten meal (CGM), protease, amylase, lipase, zein, HPLC','The recovery of zein from CM and CGM was done by treatment with three microbial enzymes (protease, amylase and lipase) individually and the yield of zein recovery increased when treatment was done with mixture of enzymes. Duggal and Kumar 09 The whole optimized process used in the present study is unique and innovative green process and there is no reports available on use of enzymes for zein recovery in the literature. The reported process completely avoids use of organic solvents for the extraction of zein thus making it a completely green extraction process. Further the work is under process to use immobilized enzyme to improve the reusability of enzyme and reduce the cost of treatment process.\r\n','-','Sampy Duggal and Dinesh Kumar (2016). Process Optimization for Recovery of Zein (A Valuable Maize Protein) From Corn Meal and Corn Gluten Meal using Microbial Enzymatic Hydrolysis , Biological Forum â€“ An International Journal 8(2): 04-09.'),(138,'9','Extraction and Evaluation the Effect of Environmental Destructive Factors on Stability of Siyahe Sardasht Grape Anthocyanins','Nasrin Nasr','3 NASRIN NASR 1180 Extraction and Evaluation the Effect of Environmental Destructive.pdf','',1,'The color of red juice of Vitis vinifera is mainly due to the presence of anthocyanins that most important group of water soluble plant pigments. In the stage of producing fruit juice it is great important to obtain good color and clearness of juice and to possibly keep them for a prolonged period of time. On the other hand the juice of black grape (Vitis vinifera) is very susceptible to browning and overall of color quality during storage. In this research the effects of four temperatures (5, 20, 30 and 40Â°C), four pH levels (1.5,3 ,4.5 and 6) and three light levels (dark, 400 Lux, 800Lux) on color and stability of anthocyanin during storage of three months were studied. Samples were analyzed for total anthocyanin pigment, color density, percentage of anthocyanin degradation. High pH decreased color density and increased browning during storage time. Low pH indicated lowest color less. Higher storage temperature (40Â°C) greatly reduced color less and increased anthocyanin degradation','Anthocyanin, Light, Temperature, pH, Siyahe Sardasht.','The color of red juice of Vitis vinifera is mainly due to the presence of anthocyanins that most important group of water soluble plant pigments. In the stage of producing fruit juice it is great important to obtain good color and clearness of juice and to possibly keep them for a prolonged period of time. On the other hand the juice of black grape (Vitis vinifera) is very susceptible to browning and overall of color quality during storage. In this research the effects of four temperatures (5, 20, 30 and 40Â°C), four pH levels (1.5,3 ,4.5 and 6) and three light levels (dark, 400 Lux, 800Lux) on color and stability of anthocyanin during storage of three months were studied. Samples were analyzed for total anthocyanin pigment, color density, percentage of anthocyanin degradation. High pH decreased color density and increased browning during storage time. Low pH indicated lowest color less. Higher storage temperature (40Â°C) greatly reduced color less and increased anthocyanin degradation','-','Nasrin Nasr (2016). Extraction and Evaluation the Effect of Environmental Destructive Factors on Stability of Siyahe Sardasht Grape Anthocyanins , Biological Forum â€“ An International Journal 8(2): 10-15'),(139,'9','Productivity and Cost of tree Bucking with a Chainsaw in Caspian Forests','Majid Lotfalian*, Ebrahim Abbasi** and Seyed Ataollah Hosseini***','4 MAJID LOTFALIAN 1174 Productivity and Cost of tree Bucking with a Chainsaw in Caspian.pdf','',1,'Tree cutting is the most important component that affects all stages of harvesting. Tree cutting is included felling, cross-cutting, delimbing and topping. This study was carried out in the northern forests of Iran (Hyrcanian Forests) near the Caspian Sea in the Neka Chob Company, in order to evaluate subsections of tree bucking. The main goals of this study were time study of tree bucking, estimating and measuring productivity and costs of chainsaw as well as identifying regression model of tree bucking time. Multivariate Regression of bucking time was a function of tree diameter and tree length. Hourly production of chainsaw bucking was16.88m3/h (4 trees per hour). There was found a negative relationship between tree diameter and tree bucking cost per production unit, so that when the tree diameter was increased the cost of tree bucking was being decreasing exponentially.','time study, regression model, unit cost, forest work study, Iran','Tree cutting is the most important component that affects all stages of harvesting. Tree cutting is included felling, cross-cutting, delimbing and topping. This study was carried out in the northern forests of Iran (Hyrcanian Forests) near the Caspian Sea in the Neka Chob Company, in order to evaluate subsections of tree bucking. The main goals of this study were time study of tree bucking, estimating and measuring productivity and costs of chainsaw as well as identifying regression model of tree bucking time. Multivariate Regression of bucking time was a function of tree diameter and tree length. Hourly production of chainsaw bucking was16.88m3/h (4 trees per hour). There was found a negative relationship between tree diameter and tree bucking cost per production unit, so that when the tree diameter was increased the cost of tree bucking was being decreasing exponentially.','-','Majid Lotfalian, Ebrahim Abbasi and Seyed Ataollah Hosseini (2016). Productivity and Cost of tree Bucking with a Chainsaw in Caspian Forests , Biological Forum â€“ An International Journal 8(2): 16-21.'),(140,'9','Development of Wild Fruits Fortified Probiotic Milk using Lactobacillus rhamnosus Culture','Ashwani Kumar and Dinesh Kumar','5 DINESH KUMAR 1179 Development of Wild Fruits Fortified Probiotic Milk using Lactobacillus rhamnosus Culture.pdf','',1,'Probiotic milk samples were prepared using free, alginate (2%) and carrageenan (2%) encapsulated probiotic culture and fortified with fruit juice (10% v/v) of Prunus armeniaca, Rubus ellipticus, Prunus domestica and Syzygium cumini. The pH of milk samples decreased (6.06Â±0.06â€“3.33Â±0.08) and acidity increased (0.18Â±0â€“0.67Â±0.02 %) during 15 days of storage. Alginate microencapsulated culture was more stable as compared with carrageenan encapsulated and free culture. Milk samples prepared using alginate microencapsulated culture retained probiotic values of 6.65Â±0.02 and 6.55Â±0.03 log CFU/mL respectively in Syzygium cumini and Prunus domestica fortified probiotic milk up to day 5 of storage. The antioxidant power of fruit fortified probiotic milk decreased during storage. In DPPH radical scavenging and NORS assay percentage scavenging decreased from 61.09Â±1.17 to 38.77Â±1.42 and 62.66Â±0.56 to 40.61Â±0.90 respectively. In FRAP assay optical density decreased from 0.598Â±0.01 to','Probiotic Lactobacillus rhamnosus, microencapsulation, fruit fortified probiotic milk, antioxidant analysis','Probiotic milk samples were prepared using free, alginate (2%) and carrageenan (2%) encapsulated probiotic culture and fortified with fruit juice (10% v/v) of Prunus armeniaca, Rubus ellipticus, Prunus domestica and Syzygium cumini. The pH of milk samples decreased (6.06Â±0.06â€“3.33Â±0.08) and acidity increased (0.18Â±0â€“0.67Â±0.02 %) during 15 days of storage. Alginate microencapsulated culture was more stable as compared with carrageenan encapsulated and free culture. Milk samples prepared using alginate microencapsulated culture retained probiotic values of 6.65Â±0.02 and 6.55Â±0.03 log CFU/mL respectively in Syzygium cumini and Prunus domestica fortified probiotic milk up to day 5 of storage. The antioxidant power of fruit fortified probiotic milk decreased during storage. In DPPH radical scavenging and NORS assay percentage scavenging decreased from 61.09Â±1.17 to 38.77Â±1.42 and 62.66Â±0.56 to 40.61Â±0.90 respectively. In FRAP assay optical density decreased from 0.598Â±0.01 to','-','Ashwani Kumar and Dinesh Kumar (2016). Development of Wild Fruits Fortified Probiotic Milk using Lactobacillus rhamnosus Culture , Biological Forum â€“ An International Journal 8(2): 22-28.'),(141,'9','Evaluation of the Effect of Cytokinine and Auxin Plant Growth Regulator on Callus Induction and Plant Regeneration on Medicinal plant Convolvulus arvensis L.','Nasrin Nasr* and Hamideh Aali**','6 NASRIN NASR AND HAMIDEH AALI 1181.pdf','',1,'','','','',''),(142,'9','Effect of Salt Stress and Exogenous Application of Proline on some Antioxidant Enzymes Activity in Barley Cultivars Seedling','Mohammad Behrouzi Varjovi*, Mostafa Valizadeh* and Mohammad Moghaddam Vahed*','7 MOHAMMAD BEHROUZI VARJOVI 1185 Effect of Salt Stress and Exogenous Application of Proline on some Antioxidant Enzymes Activity in Barley Cultivars Seedling.pdf','',1,'In order to investigate the effect of salt stress and exogenous proline treatment on catalase and peroxidase activity, on ten barley cultivars at seedling stage, a factorial experiment on the basis of completely randomized experimental design in three replications was performed using NaCl levels (0, 100 and 200 mM), and three levels of proline (0, 5 and 10 mM). Electrophoretic analyses were performed by using 8% slab polyacrylamide gels. Two antioxidant enzymes including catalase (CAT) and peroxidase (POX) were stained and for each isozymic band the \"density Ã— area\" scores onto gels were evaluated by MCID software as enzymatic activity. The analysis of variance of data for CAT showed a significant difference for cultivars, salinity levels, salinity Ã— cultivar interaction and salinity Ã— proline Ã— cultivar interaction. For POX, significant differences for cultivars, salinity levels and salinity Ã— cultivar interaction in all isozymes were observed. In addition, there were significant','Antioxidant enzymes, Barley, Proline, Salt stress. ','In order to investigate the effect of salt stress and exogenous proline treatment on catalase and peroxidase activity, on ten barley cultivars at seedling stage, a factorial experiment on the basis of completely randomized experimental design in three replications was performed using NaCl levels (0, 100 and 200 mM), and three levels of proline (0, 5 and 10 mM). Electrophoretic analyses were performed by using 8% slab polyacrylamide gels. Two antioxidant enzymes including catalase (CAT) and peroxidase (POX) were stained and for each isozymic band the \"density Ã— area\" scores onto gels were evaluated by MCID software as enzymatic activity. The analysis of variance of data for CAT showed a significant difference for cultivars, salinity levels, salinity Ã— cultivar interaction and salinity Ã— proline Ã— cultivar interaction. For POX, significant differences for cultivars, salinity levels and salinity Ã— cultivar interaction in all isozymes were observed. In addition, there were significant','-','Mohammad Behrouzi Varjovi*, Mostafa Valizadeh* and Mohammad Moghaddam Vahed (2016). Effect of Salt Stress and Exogenous Application of Proline on some Antioxidant Enzymes Activity in Barley Cultivars Seedling , Biological Forum â€“ An International Journ'),(144,'3','On Some Fixed Point Theorems for Extension of Banach Contraction Principal In compact Metric spaces','Rajesh Shrivastava* and Swati Khare**','9 SWATI KHARE.pdf','',1,'','','','',''),(145,'3','A Study on Biological Importance of Nitrogenous Based Heterocyclic Compounds.','Dr. Atul Thakkar','Dr. Atul Thakkar.pdf','',1,'','','','',''),(146,'10','Electric Modulus and Impedance Study of 0.83Ba(Fe0.5Nb0.5)O3- 0.17BaTiO3 Ceramics','Asim Kumar , Avinash Kumar* , Pritam Kumar** and N. K. Singh*','1 ASIM KUMAR 1025.pdf','',1,'','','','',''),(147,'9','Effects of Stratification on Reducing the Number of Sample Plots and Increasing Inventory Accuracy in Mixed uneven-aged Forest Stands','M. Amini*, R. Amini** and Sh. Amini**','8 M AMINI 1183 Effects of Stratification on Reducing the Number of Sample Plots and Increasing Inventory Accuracy in Mixed uneven-aged Forest Stands.pdf','',1,'After sampling in an area of 1300 hectare, variables were classified based on their correlation. The use of basal area brings greater precision in plannings rather than stand volume. The number of sample plots in the sampling without stratification is much more than needed. If qualitative stratification of the stands is carried out before inventory, the accuracy of data increases while the number of sample plots is reduced. The exclusive use of a stratification variable and using the information obtained from it for judgment and planning of other variables cause to deviation of the results. For identification and analysis of stands structure, the use set of number of trees per hectare, De\'liocort coefficient, percentage of the total number of industrial tree species, the shape of distribution curve in diameter classes, statistical comparison for the distribution of the number of trees in diameter classes between the present and optimal conditions lead to more accurate results.','Stand volume, structure, basal area, stratification, Hyrcanian forests, high forest. ','The use of classification method in the forests similar to the study area in this research project will have a significant impact in reducing the volume and costs of operations, compared to what is usual (common) in no classification method in which vast areas are sampled. The increased accuracy of operations is among the findings of this issue. \r\nTherefore, the possibility of increasing the area of sample plots is provided to get more detailed information closer to nature as well as access to the variables having lower contribution in no classification method.\r\n','-','M. Amini, R. Amini and Sh. Amini (2016). Effects of Stratification on Reducing the Number of Sample Plots and Increasing Inventory Accuracy in Mixed uneven-aged Forest Stands , Biological Forum â€“ An International Journal 8(2): 42-51(2016) '),(148,'9','Studies on Biodiversity Assessment of Selected Man made Areas of Kota District, Rajasthan','Nivedita , Kiran Choudhary* and Krishnendra Singh Nama** ','9 NIVEDITA SHARMA 1169 Studies on Biodiversity Assessment of Selected Man made Areas of Kota District, Rajasthan.pdf','',1,'The present study was conducted in urban areas of Kota district in rainy and winter seasons. Data revealed that in Rainy season Aristida depressa (IVI 22.22) at R.T.U., Cynodon dactylon (IVI 25.45) at C.V.G. and Brachiaria ramosa (IVI 32.32) at Ch.G were the most dominant species. Whereas in winter season Polygonum plebeium with IVI (21.29) at R.T.U.; Cynodon dactylon with IVI (36.32) at C.V.G. and Cynodon dactylon with IVI (39.61) at Ch.G. ranked first among all the species. Perusal of data revealed that at site R.T.U. the maximum IVI was showed by Acacia leucophloea (96.17) followed by Azadirachta indica (65.87), Acacia nilotica (62.41) and Dichrostachys cinerea (38.38). At site C.V.G. highest IVI was showed by Mangifera indica (54.52). Data revealed that at site Ch. G Cassia fistula was observed as the most dominant species with IVI (86.09) followed by Poinciana regia (71.42), Azadirachta indica (66.2) and Bauhinia variegata (43.1). ','Rainy, Winter, Summer, Dominant, IVI.','The present study was conducted in urban areas of Kota district in rainy and winter seasons. Data revealed that in Rainy season Aristida depressa (IVI 22.22) at R.T.U., Cynodon dactylon (IVI 25.45) at C.V.G. and Brachiaria ramosa (IVI 32.32) at Ch.G were the most dominant species. Whereas in winter season Polygonum plebeium with IVI (21.29) at R.T.U.; Cynodon dactylon with IVI (36.32) at C.V.G. and Cynodon dactylon with IVI (39.61) at Ch.G. ranked first among all the species. Perusal of data revealed that at site R.T.U. the maximum IVI was showed by Acacia leucophloea (96.17) followed by Azadirachta indica (65.87), Acacia nilotica (62.41) and Dichrostachys cinerea (38.38). At site C.V.G. highest IVI was showed by Mangifera indica (54.52). Data revealed that at site Ch. G Cassia fistula was observed as the most dominant species with IVI (86.09) followed by Poinciana regia (71.42), Azadirachta indica (66.2) and Bauhinia variegata (43.1). ','-','Nivedita , Kiran Choudhary*and Krishnendra Singh Nama (2016). Studies on Biodiversity Assessment of Selected Man made Areas of Kota District, Rajasthan , Biological Forum â€“ An International Journal 8(2): 52-59.'),(149,'9','Modeling the Mechanical Behavior of Fruits: A Review','Amin Lotfalian Dehkordi','10 AMIN LOTFALIAN DEHKORDI 1159 Modeling the Mechanical Behavior of Fruits A Review.pdf','',1,'According to the significance of postharvest processes in increasing the life of agricultural produce and preserving their nutrition, industrial, and economic values, as well as identifying damage factors in order to reduce products\' damages and losses, it is essential to acknowledge and evaluate the mechanical behavior of agricultural produce for designing and optimizing machineries. This behavior includes such determined and defined parameters as modulus of elasticity (E), shear modulus (G), and bulk modulus (K), Poisson\'s ratio, and viscosity, as well as imposed forces and factors effective in damages. Accordingly, rheological models (spring and dashpot), finite element, discrete elements, regression, and mass estimation using image processing are among the methods being used for this purpose. In doing so, reviewing the literature background on fruits\' mechanical behavior modeling, their modeling methods were highlighted and the characteristics, capabilities, and necessary requireme','Rheology, Mechanical Behavior, Post-harvest, Fruit.','The literature review showed that the mechanical behavior modeling of fruits is one the major topics of the post-harvest engineering. Since the post-harvest engineering encompasses the transportation of products from farms and orchards to the product processing stage, studying the mechanical behavior of fruits has led to important progresses in developing transportation, packaging, grading, and quality measurement machineries. The reports other references show that the objective of modeling the mechanical behavior of fruits is to understand their physical and mechanical properties at the shortest time possible and with high accuracy, as well as the ability to study the different depths and layers of fruits without the limitations imposed by laboratory instruments and tools and as a nondestructive test with less cost and higher accuracy. The results of the modeling from the reviewed papers are as follows:\r\nReviewing rheological models for mechanical behavior modeling of fruits using str','-','Amin Lotfalian Dehkordi (2016). Modeling the Mechanical Behavior of Fruits: A Review , Biological Forum â€“ An International Journal 8(2): 60-64'),(150,'9','Community Analysis of Soil and Plant Parasitic Nematodes Associated with Mulberry Plants from Manipur, India','Loukrakpam Bina Chanu and Naorem Mohilal Meitei','11 LOUKRAKPAM BINA CHANU 1172 Community Analysis of Soil and Plant Parasitic Nematodes Associated with Mulberry Plants from Manipur, India.pdf','',1,'Study on ecology of plant parasitic as well as soil nematodes associated with mulberry plants was carried out in Manipur for consecutive period of three years i.e. 2006 â€“ 2008. Sixteen different nematode genera were identified under four orders - Aphelenchida, Dorylaimida, Tylenchida and Mononchida which spread over 12 families. During the present study, Helicotylenchus spp. showed as predominant nematode genera in all studied seasons followed by Scutellonema spp. from mulberry ecosystem of Government Silkfarm, Wangbal, Thoubal District, Manipur. This may be due to the wide range physiological characteristics of the nematode group. Helicotylenchus spp. followed by Scutellonema spp., Ditylenchus spp., Caloosia spp., Criconemella spp., Aphelenchus sp., Paratylenchus spp., Basiria spp. and Tylenchus spp. are most devastating nematodes of mulberry plantation in Manipur, India.','Community structure, nematodes, mulberry, Manipur, India.','Out of the sixteen genera, twelve genera showed cent percent absolute frequency in the year 2006, fourteen genera in the year 2007 and thirteen genera in the year 2008. Hemicriconemoides spp. showed lowest absolute frequency, relative frequency, relative density, relative biomass, prominence value and importance value in all the three years followed by Dorylaimellus spp. while Helicotylenchus spp. showed highest relative density, relative biomass, prominence value and importance value in all the three years. Except absolute frequency and relative frequency, relative density, relative biomass, prominence value and importance value showed remarkable shift in values for one species to another during 2006 â€“ 2008.\r\nDuring the present study too, Helicotylenchus spp. showed as predominant nematode genera in all studied seasons followed by Scutellonema spp. from mulberry ecosystem of Government Silkfarm, Wangbal, Thoubal District, Manipur. This may be due to the wide range physiological char','-','Loukrakpam Bina Chanu and Naorem Mohilal Meitei (2016). Community Analysis of Soil and Plant Parasitic Nematodes Associated with Mulberry Plants from Manipur, India , Biological Forum â€“ An International Journal 8(2): 65-72. '),(151,'9','Preparation and Evaluation of Nanoliposomes Containing green tea Extract and Investigating its Efficacy in Extending the Shelf Life of Fresh Orange and Pomegranate Juices','S. Naghavi*, S.H. Peighambardoust**, S. Azadmard-Damirchi*** and M. Sowti Khiabani****','BFIJ 12 H. PEIGHAMBARDOUST 1203.pdf','',1,'Green tea leaves have high contents of phenolic compounds which has strong antioxidant properties but can have bitter taste which makes it less useful in food applications. Encapsulation in nanoliposomes could mask undesirable taste of green teas components and protect them against processing and storage. The objective of this study was to: 1) produce and evaluate physical properties of green tea extract (GTE) nanoliposomes using ethanol injection method; and 2) to incorporate them in different concentrations to fresh orange and pomegranate juices to preserve their quality upon storage. Particle size distribution and average diameter of GTE nanoliposomes were determined using dynamic light scattering method. Zeta potential was determined and encapsulation efficiency was evaluated using determination of total phenolic compounds of GTE in nanoliposomes. By incorporating more concentration of GTE in nanoliposomes their particle size increased from 67.7 nm for lower concentration to 370 nm','Green tea; Orange; Pomegranate; Shelf life; encapsulation; Nanoliposome, Phenolic compounds','Ethanol injection method used in this study successfully produced GTE nanoliposomes with desired physical properties. The size of the nanoliposomes was in an acceptable range. However, increasing GTE concentration in nanoliposomes caused an increase in nanoliposome size. Incorporating GTE to liposomes increased the zeta potential of particles, which was probably due to the polyphenols being negatively charged by partial dissociation, considering the anionic charge of extract solution. Encapsulation efficiency for all the formulations was in the range of 65-95%. This paper showed a possible use of GTE as a natural preservative ingredient to extend the shelf-life of fresh orange and pomegranate juices. The nanoliposome system could preserve GTE compounds from possible oxidation and deterioration during processing and storage when used in formulation of orange and pomegranate juices. The results of this study demonstrated that the nanoliposome encapsulation of GTE improved its beneficial ','-','S. Naghavi, S.H. Peighambardoust, S. Azadmard-Damirchi and M. Sowti Khiabani (2016). Preparation and Evaluation of Nanoliposomes Containing green tea Extract and Investigating its Efficacy in Extending the Shelf Life of Fresh Orange and Pomegranate Juices'),(152,'11','Unification and Depiction of a series of 2-Benzylidene N N Disubstituted Propanediamide Derivatives ','Dr. Alka Pradhan, Harshita Goyal and Nazish Khan','1 HARSHITA.pdf','',1,'','','','',''),(153,'11','Comparative study of Biosorption of Chromium and Lead Ions On to the Calcium Coss-linked alginate ','Asma Sadiq*, Anita Choubey* and A.K. Bajpai**','2 ASMA.pdf','',1,'','','','',''),(154,'11','Statistical Approach for the Study of Viscous Behaviour of Ternary Liquid System','Dr. Ranjana Singh Tomar','3 DR. RANJANA SINGH TOMAR.pdf','',1,'','','','',''),(155,'11','Methods for Management of Agricultural Water ','Dr. Sadhna Goya','4 DR. SADHNA GOYAL.pdf','',1,'','','','',''),(156,'11','Control and Regulate Human Activities to reduce Water Pollution','Dr. Ratna Roy (Pathak) ','5 DR RATNA ROY.pdf','',1,'','','','',''),(157,'11','Antioxidant Activity of Moringa oleifera using Successive Solvent Extraction Technique ','Sonia Goswami and Rashmi Singhai ','6 SONIA GOSWAMI.pdf','',1,'','','','',''),(158,'11','Antimicrobial activities of Schiff Bases: A review ','Dr. Suman Malik and Bharti Nema ','7 BHARTI NEMA.pdf','',1,'','','','',''),(159,'11','ALow Cost Treatment Approach of Treatment of Municipal Waste Water byReed Bed Technology ','Dr. Shalini Saxena','8 DR. SHALINI SAXENA.pdf','',1,'','','','',''),(160,'11','In vitro Antioxidant Activities of Green and Black Grape (Vitis vinifera L.) Methanolic Extracts- A Comparative Study ','Meenal Sharma*, Ritu Thakur Bais** and Vinod Singh*** ','9 MEENAL SHARMA.pdf','',1,'','','','',''),(161,'11','Characterization of HeavyMetals inContaminated Agricultural Soil ','Rashmi Ahuja','10 DR. RASHMI AHUJA.pdf','',1,'','','','',''),(162,'11','Antifungal and Anti Bacterial Activity of Neoteric Subtituted Thiocarbamide ','Alka Pradhan, Nazish Khan and Harshita Goyal ','11 HARSHITA.pdf','',1,'','','','',''),(163,'11','Density Functional Investigation of Scandium Based ScIn3 Intermetallic Compound in AuCu3 structure ','G. Pagare','12 G. PAGARE.pdf','',1,'','','','',''),(164,'11','Theoretical Investigation of Structural Phase Transition of Mixed Thorium Chalcogenides (ThSxSe1-x) under High Pressure and High Temperature','Shilpa Kapoor and Sadhna Singh ','13 SHILPA KAPOOR.pdf','',1,'','','','',''),(165,'11','A DFT Study on Phase Stability, Electronic, Optical, Elastic and Mechanical Properties of RhZr ','Ekta Jain*,Gitanjali Pagare** and Sankar P. Sanyal*** ','14 EKTA JAIN.pdf','',1,'','','','',''),(166,'11','Structural and Electronic Properties of Terbium Telluride ','Purvee Bhardwaj and Sadhna Singh','15 PURVEE.pdf','',1,'','','','',''),(167,'11','Theoretical prediction of high pressure structural phase transition in LaBi with NaCl structure ','Namrata Yaduvanshi and Sadhna Singh ','16 NAMRATA.pdf','',1,'','','','',''),(168,'11','â€œReflexivity and the dual Eâ€²[Ï„o] of locallyConvex Spacesâ€ ','G. C. Dubey*, S.S. Rajput* and Atarsingh Meena** ','17 ATARSINGH MEENA.pdf','',1,'','','','',''),(169,'11','Optimization of the Objective Function in Building and Construction of Project under Risk Management System ','Shweta Singh*, G. C. Dubey**, Rajesh Shrivastava*** and Anuj Pratap Singh****','18 SHWETA SINGH.pdf','',1,'','','','',''),(170,'11','Investigation of Non-linear effect in ELF/VLF waves observed by the DEMETER satellite over seismic regions ','Harsha Jalori*, Shivali Verma** and A.K. Gwal** ','19 HARSHA JALORI.pdf','',1,'','','','',''),(171,'11','On Common Fixed Point for Intimate Mapping in Fuzzy Metric Space ','Dr. Rajesh Shrivastava* and Nidhi Verma** ','20 NIDHI VERMA.pdf','',1,'','','','',''),(172,'11','N-Strongly Projective Injective and Flat Moudles over Upper Traingular Matrix Artian Algebras ','Sneha Joshi*, Shubhanka Tiwari** and Dr. M.R. Aloney*** ','21 SHUBHANKA TIWARI.pdf','',1,'','','','',''),(173,'11','N Theoretical Framework and Knowledge Based Approach: Of Risk Management in Banking Sector: Some Experiences ','Shweta Singh*, Anuj Pratap Singh** and Sharad Tiwari** ','22 SHWETA SINGH.pdf','',1,'','','','',''),(174,'11','An EOQ Inventory Model with Shortages ','Kamini Raikwar*, Virendra Upadhyay** and Manoj Shukla*** ','23 KAMINI RAIKWAR.pdf','',1,'','','','',''),(175,'11','Hyers-Ulam Stability of Functional Equation that have Quadratic property ','Kavita Shrivastava ','24 KAVITA SHRIVASTAVA.pdf','',1,'','','','',''),(176,'11','Approximation of common fixed points of Hemi-contractive mappings in Banach Space ','Akanksha Sharma, Kalpana Saxena* and Ramakant Bhardwj ** ','25 AKANKSHA SHARMA.pdf','',1,'','','','',''),(177,'11','Stability of Fixed Point Iteration Procedures','Anil Rajput*, Abha Tenguria** and Anjali Ojha***','26 ANJALI OJHA.pdf','',1,'','','','',''),(178,'11','Some Common Fixed Point heorems Using Faintly Compatible Maps \nin Fuzzy 3- Metric Space','Anil Rajput*, Abha Tenguria** and Anjali Ojha*** ','27 ASHLEKHA DUBEY.pdf','',1,'','','','',''),(179,'11','A Common Fixed Point Theorem in M-Fuzzy Metric Spaces for Integral type Inequality ','Rasik M. Patel*, Ramakant Bhardwaj** and Rashmi Tiwari***\r\n','28 RASHIK.pdf','',1,'','','','',''),(180,'11','Common Fixed Point Theorems of Compatible Mapping of Type (P) in Intuitionistic Fuzzy Metric Spaces ','Rajesh Shrivastava*, Ramakant Bhardwaj** and Vipin Kumar Sharma****','29 DR RAJESH SHRIVASTAVA.pdf','',1,'','','','',''),(181,'11','Cloud Computing Based Transactions and Services ','Bhanu Sahu* and Dr. Deepti Maheshwari** ','30 BHANU SAHU.pdf','',1,'','','','',''),(182,'11','Development of Pharmaceutical Technique for Antihypertensive Drugs ','Anita Shinde*, Suman Malik** and Amit Asati** ','31 ANITA SHINDE.pdf','',1,'','','','',''),(183,'11','Mathematics of Ecosystem ','Dr. Aruna Pande','32 DR. ARUNA PANDE.pdf','',1,'','','','',''),(184,'11','Pseudo-S- Metric Spaces and Pseudo-S-Metric Product Spaces ','Akansha Sharma*, Mahesh Tiwari** and Ramakant Bhardwaj','33 AKANSHA SHARMA.pdf','',1,'','','','',''),(185,'11','Common Fixed Point Theorem for Asymptotically Regular Mappings in Hilbert Spaces ','V. K. Agrawal*, Kamal Wadhwa** and Amit Kumar Diwakar***','34 AMIT KUMAR DIWAKAR.pdf','',1,'','','','',''),(186,'11','Physicochemical analysis of soil in the vicinity of stone crushing plant in Chhatarpur district, India ','Anita Dubey ','35 ANITA DUBEY.pdf','',1,'','','','',''),(187,'11','To StudyGrain Interfaces and Interfacial Defects in Nanocrystalline Alloys by Positron Diffusion ','Vandana Rathore ','36 VANDANA RATHORE.pdf','',1,'','','','',''),(188,'11','Positron Annihilation Spectroscopy: A Review of Applications in Nanomaterials Thin films and Semiconductors ','Vandana Rathore ','37 VANDANA RATHORE.pdf','',1,'','','','',''),(189,'11','Phytochemical Analyais of Seeds of Phonenix dactylifera ','Renu Mishra and Rabiya Ahmed ','38 Renu Mishra.pdf','',1,'','','','',''),(190,'11','Ab-initio calculations of Structural and Electronic Properties of REHg (RE = Ho and Er) intermetallic compounds ','Shubha Dubey*, G. Pagare*, Ekta Jain** and S.P. Sanyal*** ','39 G. PAGARE.pdf','',1,'','','','',''),(191,'11','Web 3.0 : A Smart Way to Develop Competence ','Meenu Pandey and Prabhat Pandey','40 DR MEENU PANDEY.pdf','',1,'','','','',''),(192,'11','Grammatical Collocation: Investigating the Competence of Engineering and Management students ','K. Anant Acharya ','41 K. ANANT ACHARYA.pdf','',1,'','','','',''),(193,'2','Mercury and Lead Accumulation by Eudrilus eugeniae in Soils Amended with Vermicompost','Priyanka Sahu and Sunita Sharma','81 PRIYANKA SAHU Mercury and Lead Accumulation by Eudrilus eugeniae in Soils.pdf','',1,'The focus of the present study was to determine the accumulation capacity of heavy metals by Eudrilus eugeniae in soils amended with vermicompost. Garden waste, kitchen waste and cow dung were subjected to recycle through vermicomposting by using the epigeic earthworm Eudrilus eugeniae. Lead was mixed in soil and cow dung mixture at 0.99, 0.199, 0.298, 0.398 and 0.498 gm/kg and Mercury was mixed at concentration 0.99, 0.199, 0.299, 0.399 and 0.499 gm/kg of mercury concentrations respectively. It was concluded that despite low availability, earthworms in soils amended with vermicompost contain elevated concentrations of lead and mercury which can help in reducing the concentrations of heavy metals from soil. This is a useful indication to incorporate earthworms in agricultural ecosystems that are prone to heavy metals.','earthworms, soil, heavy metals, agriculture','The focus of the present study was to determine the accumulation capacity of heavy metals by Eudrilus eugeniae in soils amended with vermicompost. Garden waste, kitchen waste and cow dung were subjected to recycle through vermicomposting by using the epigeic earthworm Eudrilus eugeniae. Lead was mixed in soil and cow dung mixture at 0.99, 0.199, 0.298, 0.398 and 0.498 gm/kg and Mercury was mixed at concentration 0.99, 0.199, 0.299, 0.399 and 0.499 gm/kg of mercury concentrations respectively. It was concluded that despite low availability, earthworms in soils amended with vermicompost contain elevated concentrations of lead and mercury which can help in reducing the concentrations of heavy metals from soil. This is a useful indication to incorporate earthworms in agricultural ecosystems that are prone to heavy metals.','-','Priyanka Sahu and Sunita Sharma (2016). Mercury and Lead Accumulation by Eudrilus eugeniae in Soils Amended with Vermicompost , Biological Forum â€“ An International Journal 8(1): 565-569. '),(194,'12','Predicting academic achievement based on dimensions of time perspective among university students ','Mahdieh Shafiee Tabar and Azra Zebardast** ','1 MAHDIEH SHAFIEE TABAR.pdf','',1,'','','','',''),(195,'12','Teaching philosophy to children, an effective step in excellence of today\'s education and training ','Masoomhe Azarshab* and Isa Mir Moradi**','2 ISA MIR MORADI.pdf','',1,'','','','',''),(196,'12','Reviewing curriculum planning in junior high school and high school and the role of teachers in the process ','Mohammad Beyrami* and Jamal Moradpoor** ','3 MOHAMMAD BEYRAMI.pdf','',1,'','','','',''),(197,'12','The Philosophy of Hijab and Efaf and their Internalization Methods in Society ','Isa Mir Moradi* and MasoomheAzarshab** ','4 ISA MIR MORADI.pdf','',1,'','','','',''),(198,'12','Effectiveness of Music Therapy (Active and Passive) on Quality of Life and Loneliness in Old Men ','Mohsen Nadimi','5 MOHSEN NADIMI.pdf','',1,'','','','',''),(199,'12','Relationship between Methods of Parenting Education and Academic Self-regulation in High School Student','Abdul Salam Nusrat Nahooki*, Ayob Dehvari**, Mohamad Sadegh Mohamadi*** Soraya Sepahian****','6 ABDUL SALAM NUSRAT NAHOOKI.pdf','',1,'','','','',''),(200,'12','Relationship between Communication Skills and Deterministic Thinking with Marital Satisfaction ','Mohsen Nadimi ','7 MOHSEN NADIMI.pdf','',1,'','','','',''),(201,'12','The Role of Motivational Predictors in Academic Achievement of High School Students in Salmas in 2013-2014','Rasool Jannesar Kohne Shahri*, Ali Isa Zadeghan**, Farzane Mikaaili Monii*** and Zahra Asghari Kalshani**** ','8.. RASOOL JANNESAR KOHNE SHAHRI.pdf','',1,'','','','',''),(202,'12','Processes of change in psychological flexibility in an interdisciplinary group-based treatment for depression based on Acceptance and Commitment Therapy ','Arezou Gholami ','9 AREZOU GHOLAMI.pdf','',1,'','','','',''),(203,'12','The Role of Cognitive predictors in academic achievement of high school students in Salmas ','Rasool Jannesar Kohne Shahri*, Ali Isa Zadeghan**, Farzane Mikaaili Monii*** and Zahra Asghari Kalshani**** ','10 RASOOL JANNESAR KOHNE SHAHRI.pdf','',1,'','','','',''),(204,'12','The Study of the Effectiveness of Brain-Based Learning on SelfRegulated Learning among Girl Students of First Grade in High School of Yazd ','Afsar Khalili Sadrabad*, Soghra Ebrahimi Ghavam** and Hamideh Radmanesh*** ','11 AFSAR KHALILI SADRABAD.pdf','',1,'','','','',''),(205,'12','The use of language learning in and learning cultivation of creativity in children','Masoomhe Azarshab* and Isa Mir Moradi**','12 ISA MIR MORADI.pdf','',1,'','','','',''),(206,'12','The role of pre-school education on social adaptability ','Hamid Ahmadi Daghdari* and Soheila Yusefi Lotfali**','13 HAMID AHMADI DAGHDARI.pdf','',1,'','','','',''),(207,'12','Comparing Different Marital Satisfaction and job Burnout among Engineers of Urban and Non-Urban Areas in Sari -Iran ','Fahimeh Akbari* and Vahdat Yazdanpanah Asrami**','14 FAHIMEH AKBARI.pdf','',1,'','','','',''),(208,'12','The Role of Cognitive and Motivational Predictors in Academic Achievement of High School Students in Salmas in 2013-2014','Rasool Jannesar Kohne Shahri*, Ali Isa Zadeghan**, Farzane Mikaaili Monii*** and Zahra Asghari Kalshani****','15 RASOOL JANNESAR KOHNE SHAHRI.pdf','',1,'','','','',''),(209,'12','The place of Reason in Islamic Education','Hamid Ahmadi Daghdari','16 HAMID AHMADI DAGHDARI.pdf','',1,'','','','',''),(210,'12','The relationship between students impulsiveness and timidity with their educational achievement ','Karim Babaeian* and Fereshteh Jamshidzadeh** ','17 KARIM BABAEIAN.pdf','',1,'','','','',''),(211,'12','The correlation between identity styles with loneliness feeling and social anxiety ','Khodamorad Momeni*, Fereshteh Mohammadi**, Afsaneh Shahbazirad*** and Mohammad Reza Abbasi**** ','18 KHODAMORAD MOMENI.pdf','',1,'','','','',''),(212,'12','The relationship between computer game types and sleep rhythm, and creativity ','Zahra Taghizadeh*and Mahnaz Esteki** ','19 ZAHRA TAGHIZADEH.pdf','',1,'','','','',''),(213,'12','A comparative analysis of personality dimensions and perceived social support for women victims of domestic violence and normal women ','Hassan Ja farzadeh Dashbolaq*, Mohammad Bidari Koije**, Solmaz Fardyadras***, Ramin Ghasemzadeh**** and Hamideh Valizadeh***** ','20 HASSAN JA FARZADEH DASHBOLAQ.pdf','',1,'','','','',''),(214,'12','The Study on the Courses of First Aid Principles from the perspective of the Learners in Red Crescent Society of Marand City in 2014 ','Habib Zolfaghari* and Mehrdad Moharramzadeh**','21 MEHRDAD MOHARRAMZADEH.pdf','',1,'','','','',''),(215,'12','Comparison of family content in families with Intellectual disability students and normal students ','Majid Omidikhankahdani','22 MAJID OMIDIKHANKAHDANI.pdf','',1,'','','','',''),(216,'12','Educational planning','Arjasb Ghasemi','23 ARJASB GHASEMI.pdf','',1,'','','','',''),(217,'12','Investigation the change process of teaching methods in last 50 years for education sciences courses: Representing an optimized sample ','Nasrin Ozayi*, Somayeh Jahandideh**, Sara Shiri*** and Morteza Moradi Doliskani****','24 NASRIN OZAYI.pdf','',1,'','','','',''),(218,'12','The Relationship between Personality Dimensions (Introversion, Extroversion) and Self- Assertiveness with Social Anxiety among University Students ','Soghra Ostovar*, Parvaneh Taheri Khorasani** and Neda Rezaei*** ','25 SOGHRA OSTOVAR.pdf','',1,'','','','',''),(219,'12','Prediction of mental health and life expectancy based on religious beliefs of mothers with childrenwho suffer from mental disorders ','Farzane Ghanbari*and Maryam Shahbazi*','26 FARZANE GHANBARI.pdf','',1,'','','','',''),(220,'12','A study of the relationship between psychological needs satisfaction and mental health among the students of Vali-e-Asr University of Rafsanjan ','Parvaneh Taheri Khorasani*, Soheila Faghfori** and Soghra Ostovar*** ','27 PARVANEH TAHERI KHORASANI.pdf','',1,'','','','',''),(221,'12','The analysis of Relationship between Transformational leadership of Principals with Organizational Citizenship Behavior of Teachers in Baharestan City ','Mostafa Bagherian Far*, Jamshid Nabavi Neia**, Behnam Behzadeian Nezad*** andAman-Allah Daneshpaye**** ','28 MOSTAFA BAGHERIAN FAR.pdf','',1,'','','','',''),(222,'12','A study about place of happiness in Islam','Mohammad Reza Saadati*, Sadegh Farahmand Amin**, Donya Salimi***, Farhang Saadati**** and Vahed Salimi***** ','29 MOHAMMAD REZA SAADATI.pdf','',1,'','','','',''),(223,'12','The Relationship between Management Styles and Job Satisfaction of the Elementary Schools Teachers in Khash City ','Mahin Ghorbani Irandegan*, Yahya Irandegani** and Marjan Ghorbani Irandegan*** ','30 MAHIN GHORBANI IRANDEGAN.pdf','',1,'','','','',''),(224,'9','Effect of Different Host Plants on Digestive Proteolytic Activity and Nutritional Indices of the Cotton Bollworm, Helicoverpa armigera (Lepidoptera: Noctuidae)','Neda Fallahnejad-Mojarrad, Shila Goldasteh, Zahra Rafiei-Karahroodi and Reza Vafaei Shoushtari','BFIJ 12 ZAHRA RAFIEI-KARAHROODI 1189 Effect of Different Host Plants on Digestive Proteolytic Activity and Nutritional Indices of the Cotton Bollworm, Helicoverpa armigera _Lepidoptera Noctuidae_.pdf','',0,'','','','',''),(225,'9','Assessment of Resistance of Local and Introduced Varieties and Breeding Lines to Georgian Population of Wheat Stripe Rust','K. Natsarishvili*, Z. Sikharulidze*, G. Chkhutiashvili** and K. Sikharulidze*','BFIJ 13 K. NATSARISHVILI 1190 Assessment of Resistance of Local and Introduced Varieties and Breeding Lines to Georgian Population of Wheat Stripe Rust.pdf','',1,'Stripe rust, caused by Puccinia striiformis f. sp. tritici, is an important fungal disease of wheat causing significant grain yeild and quality losses in many regions of the world. It has become a serious constraint to wheat production in Georgia in the past years. Growing resistant cultivars is the most effective method of disease control. The goal of this study was to determine levels of resistance in wheat species, old Georgian cultivars, breeding lines and introduced cultivars and to develop a panel of cultivars that can be utilized in future. The responses of fifty two wheat genotypes including wheat species, domestic landraces and introduced entries from different international nurseries to stripe rust Georgian population at seedlings and adult plant stages were studied. High level of juvenile and adult plant resistance to the disease was detected in nearly all tested species and subspecies. Three old domestic varieties Khulugo, Lagodekhis grzeltavtava and Tetri ipkli showed resi','Breeding Lines, Puccinia striiformis, Georgian cultivars, Korboulis doli and Almasi','Stripe rust, caused by Puccinia striiformis f. sp. tritici, is an important fungal disease of wheat causing significant grain yeild and quality losses in many regions of the world. It has become a serious constraint to wheat production in Georgia in the past years. Growing resistant cultivars is the most effective method of disease control. The goal of this study was to determine levels of resistance in wheat species, old Georgian cultivars, breeding lines and introduced cultivars and to develop a panel of cultivars that can be utilized in future. The responses of fifty two wheat genotypes including wheat species, domestic landraces and introduced entries from different international nurseries to stripe rust Georgian population at seedlings and adult plant stages were studied. High level of juvenile and adult plant resistance to the disease was detected in nearly all tested species and subspecies. Three old domestic varieties Khulugo, Lagodekhis grzeltavtava and Tetri ipkli showed resi','-','K. Natsarishvili, Z. Sikharulidze, G. Chkhutiashvili and K. Sikharulidze (2016). Assessment of Resistance of Local and Introduced Varieties and Breeding Lines to Georgian Population of Wheat Stripe Rust , Biological Forum â€“ An International Journal 8(2'),(226,'9','Interaction Effect of Tillage and Irrigation Methods on Phenology, Yield and Water Productivity of Three Wheat Cultivars','Mohsen Edalat* and Ruhollah Naderi**','BFIJ 14 MOHSEN EDALAT 1191 Interaction Effect of Tillage and Irrigation Methods on Phenology, Yield and Water Productivity of Three Wheat Cultivars.pdf','',1,'Two-year field experiments were conducted at Shiraz University to evaluate the effects of tillage systems and irrigation methods on water productivity (WP) and yield of three wheat cultivars. Treatments included tillage systems in two levels as conventional tillage and reduced tillage, three irrigation methods as furrow irrigation, solid set sprinkler and wheel move sprinkler and three wheat cultivars. Results showed that interaction of cultivar Ã— tillage system Ã— irrigation methods was significant for plant height, 1000-seeds weight, and number of grains per spike, grain yield, biological yield and WP. Pishtaz cultivar produced more grain yield in conventional tillage system and furrow irrigation. However, this cultivar produced a good amount of yield in reduced tillage and solid set sprinkler irrigation method. Pishtaz cultivar had also the greatest WP in reduced tillage and solid set sprinkler. Reduced tillage also caused an increase in soil organic nitrogen and soil organic carbo','Water managements, water productivity, reduced tillage','Our results show that Pishtaz cultivar produced more grain yield in conventional tillage system and furrow irrigation. However, this cultivar produced an acceptable amount of yield in reduced tillage and solid set sprinkler irrigation method. Pishtaz cultivar had also the greatest WP in reduced tillage and solid set sprinkler. Therefore, Pishtaz cultivar is good to be recommended to the farmers of the region where water saving is vital over recent water scarcity. Reduced tillage also caused an increase in SON and SOC. Further work should be conducted regarding evaluation of management options to maximize yield and water productivity along with economic evaluation of the different systems.','-','Mohsen Edalat* and Ruhollah Naderi (2016). Interaction Effect of Tillage and Irrigation Methods on Phenology, Yield and Water Productivity of Three Wheat Cultivars , Biological Forum â€“ An International Journal 8(2): 93-102.'),(227,'9','Prediction of Angiographic Disease Status using Rule Based Data Mining Techniques','Shabia Shabir Khan and S.M.K. Quadri','BFIJ 15 SHABIA KHAN 1194 Prediction of Angiographic Disease Status using Rule Based Data Mining Techniques.pdf','',1,'Data mining is the process of uncovering the fluctuating hidden patterns or trends in the data that is not immediately apparent by just summarizing the data. It can help in predicting the future (predictive analytics) in addition to explain the current or past situation (descriptive analytics). After the interpretation of information, knowledge can be extracted by identifying relationships among patterns. Various data mining (machine learning) algorithms have been provided for extracting the nuggets of knowledge from medical datasets in the field of diagnostics. This paper discusses various machine learning techniques that have been evaluated using heart disease dataset for the prediction of class i.e. angiographic disease status (diameter narrowing). The main aim is to search a model that accurately predicts the class of the unknown records. The evaluation has been performed using WEKA software tool that helps in comparing the various techniques on the basis of certain important evalu','Data mining, Machine Learning, Angiographic disease status, classification.','An overview has been presented to summarize the various data mining techniques that can help in efficient prediction for early medical diagnosis. This paper has experimentally proved that, for the same dataset, different algorithms work in different ways. As far as accuracy is concerned, the comparison between various rule based classifiers concluded neural network as an optimal model for classification in complex heart disease dataset. This is evident from the various evaluation measures like correctly or incorrectly classified instances, Kappa statistics, and mean absolute error, wherein the values obtained are better for neural network than any other classifier. This neural network model would help in accurately predicting theangiographic disease status which is the class attribute indicating percentage of diameter narrowing in diseased patients. This would in turn help in early medical diagnostics.','-','Shabia Shabir Khan and S.M.K. Quadri (2016). Prediction of Angiographic Disease Status using Rule Based Data Mining Techniques , Biological Forum â€“ An International Journal 8(2): 103-107.'),(228,'9','Some Records of Mites on Medicinal Plants from South Bengal with their Economic Importance','Sagata Mondal and S.K. Gupta','BFIJ 16 SAGATA MONDAL 1196 Some Records of Mites on Medicinal Plants from South Bengal with their Economic Importance.pdf','',1,'A total 75 species of mites (under 29 genera, 12 family and 3 orders) has been recorded from 38 medicinal plants grown in four districts of South Bengal, India. The results documented 35 species of phytophagous, 37 species of predatory and 3 species of fungal feeding mites. Of these, 2 species namely B. amicus and B. recki, are recorded for the first time from India and 8 species Tetranychus sayedi; Tetranychus ludeni; Eutetranychus africanus; Eutetranychus orientalis; Brevipalpus melichrus; Bdellodes angustifolius; Euseius prasadi; Euseius pruni shows new host records.','Mite, medicinal plants, new records, South Bengal, India','A total 75 species of mites (under 29 genera, 12 family and 3 orders) has been recorded from 38 medicinal plants grown in four districts of South Bengal, India. The results documented 35 species of phytophagous, 37 species of predatory and 3 species of fungal feeding mites. Of these, 2 species namely B. amicus and B. recki, are recorded for the first time from India and 8 species Tetranychus sayedi; Tetranychus ludeni; Eutetranychus africanus; Eutetranychus orientalis; Brevipalpus melichrus; Bdellodes angustifolius; Euseius prasadi; Euseius pruni shows new host records.','-','Sagata Mondal and S.K. Gupta (2016). Some Records of Mites on Medicinal Plants from South Bengal with their Economic Importance, Biological Forum â€“ An International Journal 8(2): 108-111.'),(229,'8','New records of hyphomycetous fungi from North-\r\nWestern Himalayas, India','Indu Bhushan Prasher, Manju and Sushma*','5_JNBR_5(2)_2016.pdf','',1,'','','','',''),(230,'8','Effect of seed inoculation with nitroxin and different urea chemical fertilizer levels on yield,\r\n\r\nyield components and oil yield of canola\r\n\r\n(Brassica napusL.)','Yaghoub Raei1 , Sosan Pourmolaie1 , Morteza Alami-Milani2*','6_JNBR_5(2)_2016.pdf','',1,'','','','',''),(231,'4','Optimization of Material Removal Rate (MRR) and Surface Roughness\r\n(SR) while Turning of Hybrid Aluminium Metal Matrix Composite on\r\nCNC Lathe Using Response Surface Methodology (RSM)','Ajay Kumar*, Harjit Singh** and Harish Kumar Garg*** ','Optimization of Material Removal Rate MRR and Surface Roughness SR while Turning of Hybrid Aluminium Metal Matrix Composite on CNC Lathe Using Response Surface MethoHARISH KUMAR.pdf','',1,'','','','',''),(232,'3','Numerical Solution of Burgerâ€™s Equation using efficient computational Technique using Cubic B-splines','Ajay Mittal','11 AJAY MITTAL.pdf','',1,'','','','',''),(233,'13','A study on Job Satisfaction of Public and Private Sector Bank Employees','Ankita Sharma* & Manish Khanna**','1 ANKITA SHARMA.pdf','',1,'','','','',''),(234,'14','A Study on Service in Public Road Transport: the Border Zone Area of Rajasthan','Ravi Prakash Maheshwari* and Parveen Berwal**','1 RAVI PRAKASH MAHESHWARI.pdf','',1,'','','','',''),(235,'10','Study of Friction and Rollers Wear in Hot Strip Mill of Mobarakeh Steel Company','Mohammad Eghtesad*, Mehdi Aliakbarian** and Mojtaba Rasouli***','2 MOHAMMAD EGHTESAD.pdf','',1,'','','','',''),(236,'9','Effect of Salt Stress on NADP-Malic Enzyme Activity, Proline and Ionic Contents of Durum Wheat Genotypes','Parvaneh Emami*, Hooman Razi* and Manoochehr Dastfal**','BFIJ 17 HOOMAN RAZI 1188.pdf','',1,'Salt stress is a major limiting factor for cereal production in semi-arid regions such as Middle East. Development of salt tolerant durum wheat cultivars is of great importance in salt affected regions. This study was carried out to test the effect of salt stress on NADP-Malic enzyme (NADP-ME) activity, proline, sodium and potassium contents as well as grain yield of durum wheat genotypes and to identify biochemical indicators for salt tolerance in durum wheat. The eleven wheat genotypes including three commercial durum wheat cultivars, seven advanced lines of durum wheat and one bread wheat cultivar were exposed to normal and NaCl salinity stress conditions. Significant differences were observed among the genotypes for all the biochemical and agronomic traits except NADP-ME. In addition, salt stress had a significant effect on the traits except spike length and protein content. The results led to identification of some durum wheat genotypes which showed more salt tolerance than the co','Salt tolerance; NADP-ME; Sodium; Potassium; K/Na ratio; Wheat ','Salt stress is a major limiting factor for cereal production in semi-arid regions such as Middle East. Development of salt tolerant durum wheat cultivars is of great importance in salt affected regions. This study was carried out to test the effect of salt stress on NADP-Malic enzyme (NADP-ME) activity, proline, sodium and potassium contents as well as grain yield of durum wheat genotypes and to identify biochemical indicators for salt tolerance in durum wheat. The eleven wheat genotypes including three commercial durum wheat cultivars, seven advanced lines of durum wheat and one bread wheat cultivar were exposed to normal and NaCl salinity stress conditions. Significant differences were observed among the genotypes for all the biochemical and agronomic traits except NADP-ME. In addition, salt stress had a significant effect on the traits except spike length and protein content. The results led to identification of some durum wheat genotypes which showed more salt tolerance than the co','-','Parvaneh Emami*, Hooman Razi* and Manoochehr Dastfal (2016). Effect of Salt Stress on NADP-Malic Enzyme Activity, Proline and Ionic Contents of Durum Wheat Genotypes , Biological Forum â€“ An International Journal 8(2): 112-119. '),(237,'9','Essential Oil and Fixed Oil Content of Nigella sativa after A Traditional Medicine Processing-A Comparative Study','Anahita Ghourchian*, Homa Hajimehdipoor**, Leila Ara**, Rasool Choopani*, Mohammad **Kamalinejad***, Ahmad Salimzadeh****, Latif Gachkar***** and Mahnaz Malekfar******','BFIJ 18 HOMA HAJIMEHDIPOOR 1171.pdf','',1,'Nigella sativa seeds are widely used in Iranian Traditional Medicine (ITM). N. sativa oil, especially its essential oil, has more therapeutic effects than the whole seed. According to ITM this plant has a hot and dry temperament and causes respiratory complications in individuals with hot temperament. To resolve this problem, ITM references recommend processing the seeds with vinegar called \"tadbir\". In the present investigation, essential oil and fixed oil compositions of crude and processed seeds have been compared. Fixed and Essential oil compositions of crude and processed seeds were determined by using GC and GC-MS techniques, respectively. The comparative study showed that the crude samples had more essential and fixed oils. While type and content of fatty acids of the two samples were similar, thymoquinone (TQ) was absent in processed seeds. If TQ induces respiratory complications, processing with vinegar may eliminate the mentioned disadvantage of N. sativa seeds.','Nigella sativa, processing, Iranian Traditional Medicine, essential oil, fixed oil','Nigella sativa seeds are widely used in Iranian Traditional Medicine (ITM). N. sativa oil, especially its essential oil, has more therapeutic effects than the whole seed. According to ITM this plant has a hot and dry temperament and causes respiratory complications in individuals with hot temperament. To resolve this problem, ITM references recommend processing the seeds with vinegar called \"tadbir\". In the present investigation, essential oil and fixed oil compositions of crude and processed seeds have been compared. Fixed and Essential oil compositions of crude and processed seeds were determined by using GC and GC-MS techniques, respectively. The comparative study showed that the crude samples had more essential and fixed oils. While type and content of fatty acids of the two samples were similar, thymoquinone (TQ) was absent in processed seeds. If TQ induces respiratory complications, processing with vinegar may eliminate the mentioned disadvantage of N. sativa seeds.','-','Anahita Ghourchian*, Homa Hajimehdipoor, Leila Ara, Rasool Choopani*, Mohammad **Kamalinejad, Ahmad Salimzadeh*, Latif Gachkar and Mahnaz Malekfar* (2016). Essential Oil and Fixed Oil Content of Nigella sativa after A Traditional Medicine Processing-A Com'),(238,'14','Linear Antenna SLL Reduction using FFT and Cordic Method','Namrata Patel* and Vinay Gupta**','2 IJET NAMRATA PATEL 830.pdf','',1,'','','','',''),(239,'14','Study of Tension and Bending in Coilers of Mobarakeh Steel Company Hot Strip Mill and Preparing a Computer Model to Calculate\r\n\r\nthe Required Current in Coilers','Mohammad Eghtesad*, Ebrahim Farjah**, Samad Javid*** and Mojtaba Rasouli****','3 MOHAMMAD EGHTESAD 828.pdf','',1,'','','','',''),(240,'15','Thinning of Linear Antenna Array: A Review','Namrata Patel* and Vinay Gupta**','1 NAMRATE PATEL 1026.pdf','',1,'','','','',''),(241,'9','Pollen Analysis of Honeys from Varanasi District, Uttar Pradesh, India','Manju Sahney , Ajay Kumar and Snehlata Rahi','BFIJ 19 MANJU SAHNEY 1192 Pollen Analysis of Honeys from Varanasi District, Uttar Pradesh, India.pdf','',1,'Pollen analysis of six honey samples of Apis dorsata collected from Varanasi district has been carried out. Altogether, 37 pollen types were identified. Two honey samples were unifloral and four were multifloral in nature. Brassica campestris and Ageratum conyzoides were the predominant pollen types in unifloral honeys. In multifloral honey Brassica campestris, Ageratum conyzoides, Callistemon citrinus, Parthenium hysterophorus, Holoptelea integrifolia and Lathyrus aphaca were the secondary pollen types. In total honey samples Brassica campestris, Ageratum conyzoides, Callistemon citrinus, Coriandrum sativum, Eucalyptus globulus, Carica papaya, Citrus sp., Crotalaria juncea and Poaceae were very frequent in occurrence. Majority of pollen grains recovered from honey samples belonged to entomophilous taxa (54.05%) and amphiphilous taxa (32.48%) while 13.15% pollen were from anemophilous taxa. Present study suggests that Brassica campestris, Ageratum conyzoides, Callistemon citrinus and C','Pollen analysis, unifloral, multifloral, Varanasi district, Uttar Pradesh','Pollen analysis of six honey samples of Apis dorsata collected from Varanasi district has been carried out. Altogether, 37 pollen types were identified. Two honey samples were unifloral and four were multifloral in nature. Brassica campestris and Ageratum conyzoides were the predominant pollen types in unifloral honeys. In multifloral honey Brassica campestris, Ageratum conyzoides, Callistemon citrinus, Parthenium hysterophorus, Holoptelea integrifolia and Lathyrus aphaca were the secondary pollen types. In total honey samples Brassica campestris, Ageratum conyzoides, Callistemon citrinus, Coriandrum sativum, Eucalyptus globulus, Carica papaya, Citrus sp., Crotalaria juncea and Poaceae were very frequent in occurrence. Majority of pollen grains recovered from honey samples belonged to entomophilous taxa (54.05%) and amphiphilous taxa (32.48%) while 13.15% pollen were from anemophilous taxa. Present study suggests that Brassica campestris, Ageratum conyzoides, Callistemon citrinus and C','-','Manju Sahney , Ajay Kumar and Snehlata Rahi (2016). Pollen Analysis of Honeys from Varanasi District, Uttar Pradesh, India , Biological Forum â€“ An International Journal 8(2): 126-133. '),(242,'9','Estimating Qualitative Parameters of Three Halophytes using NIR Technology','Mohammad Javad Mahdavi* , Abolfazl Ranjbar**, Ehsan Zandi Esfahan*** and Reza Dehghani****','BFIJ 20 MOHAMMAD JAVAD MAHDAVI 1200 Estimating Qualitative Parameters of Three Halophytes using NIR Technology.pdf','',1,'Improvement of the traits related to forage quality including Neutral Detergent Fiber (NDF), Acid Detergent Fiber (ADF), and CP in forage species has a significant impact in increasing livestock production. In breeding programs that the number of samples is occasionally high, the use of chemical methods is time-consuming and costly. For this reason, NIR technology has been introduced as a rapid and accurate method in estimating chemical com-position of agricultural products. This research was aimed to investigate the possibility of using this technology in estimation of NDF, ADF, CP, DMI, DMD, ME, RFV and WSC in Suada fritucosa, Seidlitzia rozmarinos and Aeluropus littoralis. A total of 45 samples of each species were selected during different phenological growth stages and from different vegetation types. According to the result, phonological stages of growth had a significant influence on forage quality. In all species, the amount of CP, DMD, ME and RFV decreased with progressing gr','halophytes, Neutral Detergent Fiber (NDF), Acid Detergent Fiber (ADF), Crude Protein (CP), Near Infrared Reflectance Spectroscopy (NIRS).','Arid and semi-arid regions of Iran have diverse and rich collection of plants. Vegetation cover of such regions has high resistance to difficult environmental conditions. Also, the forage, nutritional, industrial, medicinal and conservative values of these plants are of high importance. The nutrient value of range forage depends on plant composition and stage of growth. The close matching of nutrients requirements and feed quality is necessary for efficient animal production. This study suggests that adequate nutrients are available in vegetation communities including the evaluated species. Range forage quality has spatial and temporary variations. The chemical analysis of range forage plants serves as a comparative measure of differences between species and changes with season or phenology. Rangelands of Asadli and Sisab in poor condition usually supply livestock during spring and early summer. However, forage quality declines as plants mature. The results showed the evaluated forage ','-','Mohammad Javad Mahdavi* , Abolfazl Ranjbar**, Ehsan Zandi Esfahan and Reza Dehghani (2016). Estimating Qualitative Parameters of Three Halophytes using NIR Technology , Biological Forum â€“ An International Journal 8(2): 134-139.'),(243,'14','Performance & Design Analysis of forced Draft counter to cross flow Air cooled heat exchanger at extremely low ambient temperature i.e. at - 28oC','Parag Mishra* and Dr Manoj Arya**','4 IJET-PARAG MISHRA 827 Performance & Design Analysis of forced Draft counter to cross flow Air cooled heat exchanger at extremely low ambient temperature i.e. at - 28oC.pdf','',1,'','','','',''),(244,'8','Tripospermum melghatensis- A new anamorphic fungus from Melghat Tiger Reserve, Maharashtra, India.','Rashmi Dubey and Shreya Sengupta','8_JNBR_5(2)_2016.pdf','',1,'','','','',''),(245,'15','PID Controlled Automatic Voltage Regulator with Load Frequency \r\nControl','Priyanka Andhare* and Naveen Asati**','2 PRIYANKA ANDHARE 1027 PID Controlled Automatic Voltage Regulator with Load Frequency Control.pdf','',1,'','','','',''),(246,'10','Service Quality Analysis of Public Road Transport Service: Rapid Growth of Private Vehicles in the Border Zone Area of Rajasthan','Ravi Prakash Maheshvari*, Parveen Berwal** and Ravi Kant Pareek***','3 RAVI PRAKASHA MAHESHWARI.pdf','',1,'','','','',''),(247,'10','Coupled Fixed Point Theorem in Menger Space','V. H. Badshah* , Suman Jain**, Arihant Jain*** and Subhash Mandloi*','4 ARIHANT JAIN 1027 Coupled Fixed Point Theorem in Menger Space.pdf','',1,'','','','',''),(248,'9','Darkling Beetles (Tenebrionidae: Coleoptera) of Manipur with one new Record from India','V. D. Hegde* and B. Lal**','BFIJ 21 V. D. HEGDE 1199 Darkling Beetles _Tenebrionidae Coleoptera_ of Manipur with one new Record from India.pdf','',1,'The present paper is based on the identification of the material present in the National Zoological Collection of Zoological survey of India. It contains the report of 13 species under 07 genera and 05 tribes of 03 sub families of the family Tenebrionidae from Manipur. It is interesting to note that, out of 13 species, 11 species are reported for the first time from Manipur and 01 species is reported for the first time from India. ','Darkling Beetles, Tenebrionidae, Manipur','The present paper is based on the identification of the material present in the National Zoological Collection of Zoological survey of India. It contains the report of 13 species under 07 genera and 05 tribes of 03 sub families of the family Tenebrionidae from Manipur. It is interesting to note that, out of 13 species, 11 species are reported for the first time from Manipur and 01 species is reported for the first time from India. ','-','V. D. Hegde and B. Lal (2016). Darkling Beetles (Tenebrionidae: Coleoptera) of Manipur with one new Record from India , Biological Forum â€“ An International Journal 8(2): 140-143. '),(249,'9','In vito micro propagation of two native Capparis spinosa L. cultivars from Iran','L. Vojodi Mehrabani','BFIJ 22 LAMIA VOJODI MEHRABANI 1149 In vito micro propagation of two native Capparis spinosa L. cultivars.pdf','',1,'Capparis spinosa L. (Caper) is a multipurpose crop that can be used for ornamental, culinary, cosmetics, pharmaceutical and medicinal purposes. As ornamental shrub, caper plant is used for the prevention of soil erosion and help to conserve soil water reserves. Every part of caper has medicinal uses. Due to the great population diversity and difficulties in conventional propagation methods, for the protection of C. spinosa from genetic erosion; a tissue culture method would be a good way for mass propagation of this plant. In vitro propagation of caper was begun with seeds. The highest shoots proliferation was obtained on MS medium supplemented with 3 mgl-1 cytokinin. Varzegan cultivar had the highest shoot and nod number and shoot length. The results showed that Zeatin was quite effective in the proliferation of capper explants. More Shoot multiplication was obtained at the same medium by sub-culturing shoot segment with 2-3 nodes every seven weeks (for two times). Auxin type (IBA ','Capparis spinosa, BAP, IBA, Propagation.','Due to the mechanical and possibly physiological dormancy, germination percentage and rate in Capparis spinosa is very low. Using cuttings for the propagation bears many more problems due to hard rooting nature of the plant. Tissue culture methods would be accessible propagation were for this high value crop. The tissue culture protocol employed in the present experiment gave us promising results. The overall results revealed that in between the clones studied, there was a meaningful differences considering proliferation and rooting rate. The highest shoots number and length as well as root number was belonged to ?VarzeganÂ¸ cultivar. BAP had mild effect on the proliferation rate, In contrast; Zeatin was a good choice for the proliferation of Capparis spinosa. The highest rooting percent was recorded in MS medium containing 2 mgl-1 NAA. The data obtained clearly emphasize that, tissue culture and using the right hormonal combination can be tried for the multiplication and possibly mass','-','L. Vojodi Mehrabani (2016). In vito micro propagation of two native Capparis spinosa L. cultivars from Iran , Biological Forum â€“ An International Journal 8(2): 144-149.'),(250,'9','Studies on Respiratory Toxicity of Acetone and Carbon dioxide on third instar larva Plodia interpunctella (Hubner)','Badiee Edris* and Valizadegan Oruj**','BFIJ 23 -BADIEE EDRIS 1212 Studies on Respiratory Toxicity of Acetone and Carbon dioxide on.pdf','',1,'Control Storehouse pest insects is the main objectives of agricultural products, manufacturers, exporters and consumers by maintaining the quality and quantity of products around the world. In this research, two environmentally compatible compounds namely Acetone and Carbon dioxide were evaluated for their efficacy in the control of Plodia interpunctella, under laboratory conditions. LC25 and LC50 values for Acetone and Carbon dioxide treatments on third instar larva insect were 56.32 and 68.31 Î¼lL-1, 7.78 and 15.38 mgL-1 respectively. To evaluate the combined effects an experiment was conducted in the form of completely randomized design with 4 treatments including LC50 (Ac), LC50 (CO2), LC25 (Ac) plus LC25 (CO2), and control. The results showed that percentage mortality combination two environmentally compatible compounds treatments on third instar larva insect in 24h was 75 percent compared with Acetone and Carbon dioxide alone and control have significant differences And good addi','Plodia interpunctella, Acetone, carbon dioxide, LC25, LC50','Control Storehouse pest insects is the main objectives of agricultural products, manufacturers, exporters and consumers by maintaining the quality and quantity of products around the world. In this research, two environmentally compatible compounds namely Acetone and Carbon dioxide were evaluated for their efficacy in the control of Plodia interpunctella, under laboratory conditions. LC25 and LC50 values for Acetone and Carbon dioxide treatments on third instar larva insect were 56.32 and 68.31 Î¼lL-1, 7.78 and 15.38 mgL-1 respectively. To evaluate the combined effects an experiment was conducted in the form of completely randomized design with 4 treatments including LC50 (Ac), LC50 (CO2), LC25 (Ac) plus LC25 (CO2), and control. The results showed that percentage mortality combination two environmentally compatible compounds treatments on third instar larva insect in 24h was 75 percent compared with Acetone and Carbon dioxide alone and control have significant differences And good addi','-','Badiee Edris and Valizadegan Oruj (2016). Studies on Respiratory Toxicity of Acetone and Carbon dioxide on third instar larva Plodia interpunctella (Hubner) , Biological Forum â€“ An International Journal 8(2): 150-154.'),(251,'10','A Study on Larval Population and Pod Damage due to Helicoverpa armigera in Pigeon pea under Eastern Uttar Pradesh Conditions','Yogesh, Rajnish Kumar and Gyan Prakash Morya','5 YOGESH A Study on Larval Population and Pod Damage due to Helicoverpa.pdf','',1,'','','','',''),(252,'10','Ayurvedic Approach of Eranda (Ricinus communis Linn.) on Vata Vyadhi for Green Pharmacology','Gyan Chand Kumar Morya','6 GYAN CHAND KUMAR MORYA Ayurvedic Approach of Eranda (Ricinus communis Linn.).pdf','',1,'','','','',''),(253,'10','Genetic Studies on Yield and Associate Characters in Wheat (Triticum aestivum L. em Thell)','Sateesh Chandra Gaur','7 SATEESH CHANDRA GAUR Genetic Studies on Yield and Associate Characters in Wheat.pdf','',1,'','','','',''),(254,'10','Revival of ITK for Sustainable Agriculture under Eastern Uttar Pradesh (India)','Gyan Prakash Morya, Rajnish Kumar and Yogesh','8 GYAN PRAKASH MORYA Revival of ITK for Sustainable Agriculture under Eastern Uttar.pdf','',1,'A study was conducted on indigenous technical knowledge (ITK) for sustainable agriculture under Eastern Uttar Pradesh (India) for 3 consecutive years (2013-2015) to survey the revival of scientific traditional knowledge of agricultural practices for sustainable agricultural development. There were 20 ITKs observed for sustainable agriculture belonging to two groups, crop production and livestock production and each have observed 10 ITKs respectively. Survey was conducted as per methodology of international institute of rural reconstruction (IIRR, 1996) and modified as accessibility. Informal interview method was used for recording. The bidahani (beushening) and sanda (double transplanting) for rice cultivation and surka (cooked liquid gruel) for dairy husbandry are confined very local and traditional knowledge in Eastern Uttar Pradesh conditions. ','ITK (Indigenous technical knowledge), Revival, Sustainable agriculture, Eastern Uttar Pradesh, India.','','',''),(255,'9','Cross ability between Commercial Cultivars and Intraspecific Hybrids (Andigena X Tuberosum) and Advanced Clones of Potato, Solanum tuberosum','Bahram Dehdar*, Jaber Panahandeh** and Alireza Motalebi Azar***','BFIJ 24-BAHRAM DEHDAR 1208 Cross ability between Commercial Cultivars and Intraspecific Hybrids _Andigena X Tuberosum_ and Advanced Clones of Potato, Solanum tuberosum.pdf','',1,'In interspecific and intraspecific crosses, and pre-zygotic barriers like pollen-pistil incompatibility may exist. And when a parent is selected as male or female, this incompatibility may disappear. In this experiment, seven high-yielding commercial cultivars of potato, two advanced potato clones of direct intraspecific hybrids (Solanum tuberosum ssp andigena x S. tuberosum) and three advanced clones of S. tuberosum hybrids were crossed reciprocally, in the Ardabil Natural Resources and Agricultural Research Station during the summer of 2013 and the best cultivars and clones were determined when they were selected as the female or male parent. Generally, when the commercial cultivars were used as the male parent, the number of berries, the total number of seeds, the number of the seeds per berry, cross efficiency and the germination percentage of true seeds generated were 5, 73, 15, 0.73 and 27%, respectively; and when the parent was female, the above were measured as 74, 3841, 59, 3.','Potato, cross ability, tuberosum, andigena, true potato seed.','In interspecific and intraspecific crosses, and pre-zygotic barriers like pollen-pistil incompatibility may exist. And when a parent is selected as male or female, this incompatibility may disappear. In this experiment, seven high-yielding commercial cultivars of potato, two advanced potato clones of direct intraspecific hybrids (Solanum tuberosum ssp andigena x S. tuberosum) and three advanced clones of S. tuberosum hybrids were crossed reciprocally, in the Ardabil Natural Resources and Agricultural Research Station during the summer of 2013 and the best cultivars and clones were determined when they were selected as the female or male parent. Generally, when the commercial cultivars were used as the male parent, the number of berries, the total number of seeds, the number of the seeds per berry, cross efficiency and the germination percentage of true seeds generated were 5, 73, 15, 0.73 and 27%, respectively; and when the parent was female, the above were measured as 74, 3841, 59, 3.','-','Bahram Dehdar*, Jaber Panahandeh** and Alireza Motalebi Azar (2016) Cross ability between Commercial Cultivars and Intraspecific Hybrids (Andigena X Tuberosum) and Advanced Clones of Potato, Solanum tuberosum , Biological Forum â€“ An International Journa'),(256,'9','Tricho-taxonomic studies for Identification of Indian Cervids, Axis axis (Erxleben, 1777), Axis porcinus Zimmermann, 1780, Muntiacus muntjak Zimmermann, 1780 and Rusa unicolor (Kerr, 1792) (Artiodactyla: Mammalia) by Dorsal Guard Hairs','Gaurav Sharma* , M. Kamalakannan, C.K. Manna, **and Dam Debashree ','BFIJ 25 GAURAV SHARMA 1218 Tricho-taxonomic studies for Identification of Indian Cervids, Axis axis _Erxleben, 1777_, Axis porcinus Zimmermann, 1780, Muntiacus muntjak Zimmermann, 1780 and Rusa unicolor _Kerr, 17.pdf','',1,'','','','',''),(257,'8','Costus pictus D.Don Ex Lindl. (Costaceae) new to Odisha, India','P.Murugan and C.Kalidass*','7_JNBR_5(2)_2016.pdf','',1,'','','','',''),(258,'11','A Common Fixed Point Theorem in Complete Fuzzy 3 - Metric Spaces','V. K. Agrawal*, Ajay Soni** and Anupama Gupta***','42 AJAY SONI.pdf','',1,'','','','',''),(259,'11','The Role & Regulations of NBFCs (Non Banking Finance Companies) in India: The Structure and status profile','Shweta Singh*, Anuj Pratap Singh** and Sharad Tiwari**','43 SHWETA SINGH.pdf','',1,'','','','',''),(260,'11','Common Fixed Point Theorems in Ordered Cone Metric Spaces','Shweta Maheshwari','44 SHWETA MAHESHWARI.pdf','',1,'','','','',''),(261,'11','Systemic Hylohyphomycosis caused by Acremonium Species, Cylindrocarpon lichenicola and Apispora montagnei','Varsha Aglawe','45 VARSHA AGLAWE.pdf','',1,'','','','',''),(262,'11','On Some Common Fixed Point Theorems with Rational expressions on Cone Metric Spaces over a Banach Algebra for Integral Type Mappings','Pravin B. Prajapati*, Ramakant Bhardwaj** and Sabhakant Dwivedi***','46 PRAVIN B. PRAJAPATI.pdf','',1,'','','','',''),(263,'11','Some Fixed Point Theorem in Dislocated Metric Space','Madhu Shrivastava*, K. Qureshi** and A.D. Singh**','47 MADHU SHRIVASTAVA.pdf','',1,'','','','',''),(264,'11','Fixed Point Theorems for Six Weakly Compatible Mappings in âˆ— - Metric Spaces for Integral type Mappings','Pravin B. Prajapati*, Ramakant Bhardwaj** and P.R. S. Choudhary***','48 PRAVIN B. PRAJAPATI.pdf','',1,'','','','',''),(265,'14','Application of SMED Programme of Lean Manufacturing for Improving\r\n overall Equipment Efficiency -A Case Study','Gaurav Saini* and Er. Harvinder Lal**','5 IJET GAURAV SAINI 831 Application of SMED Programme of Lean Manufacturing for Improving overall Equipment Efficiency -A Case Study.pdf','',1,'','','','',''),(266,'14','Application of DMAIC Technique in a Manufacturing Industry for Improving Process Performance - A Case Study','Harpreet Singh* and Er. Harvinder Lal**','6 IJET HARPREET SINGH 832 Application of DMAIC Technique in a Manufacturing Industry for Improving Process Performance - A Case Study.pdf','',1,'','','','',''),(267,'14','Productivity Improvement using Lean Six Sigma Methodology: A Comprehensive Review','Navy Gera* and Er. Harvinder Lal','7 IJET NAVY GERA 833 Productivity Improvement using Lean Six Sigma Methodology A Comprehensive Review.pdf','',1,'','','','',''),(268,'9','Observations on the Biology of Type-species, Colotis amata (Fabricius), the Small Salmon Arab (Papilionoidea : Pieridae)','Manbeer Kaur* and Avtar Kaur Sidhu**','BFIJ 26 MANBEER KAUR 1213 Observations on the Biology of Type-species, Colotis amata.pdf','',1,'Salvadora oleoides (Salvadoraceae) has been recorded as the host plant of Colotis amata from arid areas north-west India The gross morphology and duration of various life history stages has been recorded. The larval and oviposition behaviour has been studied in details. ','Colotia amata, Pieirdae, life history, behaviour.','Salvadora oleoides (Salvadoraceae) has been recorded as the host plant of Colotis amata from arid areas north-west India The gross morphology and duration of various life history stages has been recorded. The larval and oviposition behaviour has been studied in details. ','-','Manbeer Kaur and Avtar Kaur Sidhu (2016). Observations on the Biology of Type-species, Colotis amata (Fabricius), the Small Salmon Arab (Papilionoidea : Pieridae), Biological Forum â€“ An International Journal 8(2): 168-171.'),(269,'9','Effect of Organic and Mineral Fertilizer on Safflower (Carthamus tinctorius) Seed Yield and Yield Components','Mohsen Edalat* and Ruhollah Naderi**','BFIJ 27 MOHSEN EDALAT 1215 Effect of Organic and Mineral Fertilizer on Safflower (Carthamus tinctorius) Seed Yield and Yield Components.pdf','',1,'Safflower (Carthamus tinctorius L.) is an important oil crop which has a favorable production under low input conditions, particularly in organic farming systems. This study was carried out to evaluate the effect of organic and mineral fertilizers including urea nitrogen (N), farmyard manure and municipal waste compost on growth, yield and yield components of safflower. The experiment was conducted at the Experimental Farm of School of Agriculture, Shiraz University, Shiraz, Iran, located at Badjgah in 2014 and 2015 growing seasons. Results showed that maximum seed yield was recorded at 50 tons compost ha-1. Seed yield showed a significant increase by increasing N from 0 to 100 kg ha-1 at 50 tons ha-1 of compost treatment; however increasing N beyond 100 kg ha-1 had no significant effect on safflower seed yield. Results of stepwise regression analysis showed that contribution of yield component of safflower varies with change in N and organic fertilizer application rates. Application o','Compost, Farmyard manure, Stepwise regression, Organic carbon.','Our results showed a beneficial effect of municipal waste compost to reduce application of mineral nitrogen fertilizer. The optimal rate of application to guarantee the maximum safflower seed yield was50 tons compost ha-1 combined with 200 kg urea ha-1. It appears that 50% of the required N-fertilizer could be replaced by compost application. Stepwise regression results showed that contribution of yield components of safflower varies with change in urea N and organic fertilizer application rates. Compared to the control (no use of urea N and organic amendments), application of organic amendments had no effect on soil pH or EC. Application of 50 tons compost ha-1 increased total soil nitrogen. Organic amendments increased soil organic carbon, even though this increase was not significant. ','-','Mohsen Edalat and Ruhollah Naderi (2016). Effect of Organic and Mineral Fertilizer on Safflower (Carthamus tinctorius) Seed Yield and Yield Components , Biological Forum â€“ An International Journal 8(2): 172-180. '),(270,'9','The Gastrointestinal Helminth Infection among Backyard Fowl Population of Selected areas of North 24 Parganas, West Bengal','Suman Mukherjee, Somasree De and Pratik Sardar','BFIJ 28 SUMAN MUKHERJEE 1209 The Gastrointestinal Helminth Infection among Backyard Fowl Population of Selected areas of North 24 Parganas, West Bengal.pdf','',1,'Poultry is a promising sector in India which is increasing day by day. Poultry production is hindered by many problems among which various diseases namely parasitic infection are most important. The present study was conducted in North 24 Parganas district of West Bengal, India to determine the prevalence of gastrointestinal helminth in backyard fowl and to study the gross histopathological lesions produced by them.','Helminth Infection, Backyard fowl, parasite, intestine, ','Poultry is a promising sector in India which is increasing day by day. Poultry production is hindered by many problems among which various diseases namely parasitic infection are most important. The present study was conducted in North 24 Parganas district of West Bengal, India to determine the prevalence of gastrointestinal helminth in backyard fowl and to study the gross histopathological lesions produced by them.','-','Suman Mukherjee, Somasree De and Pratik Sardar (2016). The Gastrointestinal Helminth Infection among Backyard Fowl Population of Selected areas of North 24 Parganas, West Bengal , Biological Forum â€“ An International Journal 8(2): 181-185.'),(271,'9','Statistical Studies on Exploring and Enhancing the Catalytic Potential of Nitrilase from Thermo-tolerant Geobacillus subterraneus from Hot \r\nWater Springs of Manikaran','Mamta Sharma, Chandrika Attri and Amit Seth','BFIJ 29 AMIT SETH 1221 Statistical Studies on Exploring and Enhancing the Catalytic Potential of Nitrilase from Thermo-tolerant Geobacillus subterraneus from Hot Water Springs of Manikaran.pdf','',1,'The importance of thermostable biomolecules has led to an upsurge of research into organisms from thermophilic sites. The present study was aimed to isolate mandelonitrile degrading microbes from hot water springs of Manikaran using indicator plate assay method. Extensive screening resulted in obtaining nitrilase producing thermophile. On the basis of biochemical tests and 16s rDNA gene sequencing it was designated as Geobacillus subterraneus MAC VI. Further, statistical optimization of culture conditions and process parameters was performed. The nitrilase enzyme of this isolate is inducible in nature which is activated in presence of mandelonitrile. The enzyme activity was increased manifold by giving multiple feedings of inducer. The highest nitrilase activity was recorded at 90Â°C. The enzyme was highly thermostable as it showed activity (0.098 U/mgdcw) at 100Â°C even after 5h of incubation. This is the first report on a thermophilic Geobacillus subterraneus mandelonitrile degrad','Thermophiles, Manikaran, Geobacillus subterraneus, hyperinduction, mandelonitrile, RSM','A new candidate for the production of thermostable nitrilase identified as Geobacillus subterraneus was isolated from hot water springs of Manikaran which was capable of degrading mandelonitrile. Optimization of culture conditions and process parameters enhanced nitrilase production. Thermo stability of the enzyme was an added advantage of this microbe as it was able to withstand 100Â°C for 5 h and still exhibited appreciable nitrilase activity. ','-','Mamta Sharma, Chandrika Attri and Amit Seth (2016). Statistical Studies on Exploring and Enhancing the Catalytic Potential of Nitrilase from Thermo-tolerant Geobacillus subterraneus from Hot \r\nWater Springs of Manikaran , Biological Forum â€“ An Internati'),(272,'9','Estimating Groundwater Recharge, Evapotranspiration and Surface Runoff using Land-use data: A Case Study in Northeast Iran','Mehdi Zarei*, Reza Ghazavi**, Abbasali Vli*** and Khodayar Abdollahi****','BFIJ 30 MEHDI ZAREI 1217 Estimating Groundwater Recharge, Evapotranspiration and Surface Runoff using Land-use data A Case Study in Northeast Iran.pdf','',1,'Estimation of temporal and spatial distribution of recharge is a key factor for a long-term water resource planning, especially in semi-arid regions. The main objective of this is to assess the groundwater recharge, surface runoff and evapotranspiration in the Mashhad basin using a spatially distributed water balance model (WetSpass-M) in different land-use types. Distributed land-use map, groundwater depth, monthly climatological data (e.g. precipitation, temperatureâ€¦..), monthly LAI, slope and soil texture maps are the basic relevant input data for the model. All inputs were prepared in the form of digital maps using GIS and remote sensing tools. Results of the model indicate that the long-term temporal and spatial average monthly rainfall of 22 mm was distributed as 14% of surface runoff, 29 % groundwater recharge and 57% of evapotranspiration. Resulting to the high evapotranspiration rate, high surface runoff and temperature, agricultural regions (including rain-fed and irrigatio','Groundwater recharge, land-use, Water balance, GIS, Remote Sensing, Mashhad basin ','Water balance is a representation of the net result of the inflow and outflow of system. Precipitation is the main inflow component of water balance. Evapotranspiration, groundwater recharge and surface runoff are the most significant outflow components of water balance. All water balance components are dependent on the land use/land cover classes and soil texture types. In this study, steady state distributed water balance model (WetSpas-M) has been applied to calculate monthly water balance components in Mashhad basin, Iran. We employed remote sensing method and cloud free Landsat TM to provide land use map in Mashhad basin. In order to identify land use classes, supervised classification method with the maximum likelihood algorithm in ERDAS 9.3 imagine software. Land use and soil types in Mashhad basin were dominated by rangeland area and silty clay loam, respectively.\r\nResults of the model indicate that evapotranspiration is the major process by which water is lost in the study are','-','Mehdi Zarei, Reza Ghazavi, Abbasali Vli and Khodayar Abdollahi (2016). Estimating Groundwater Recharge, Evapotranspiration and Surface Runoff using Land-use data: A Case Study in Northeast Iran ,Biological Forum â€“ An International Journal 8(2): 196-202'),(273,'16','Analyze the Effect of Varying Misbehavior nodes on VOD over Wimax\r\nusing SVC Code','Harmandeep Singh*, Pankaj Sharma** and Puneet Jain***','1 IJET-SI-1.pdf','',1,'','','','',''),(274,'16','Zigbee-Performance Analyses of Hybrid Topology by Varying\r\nMobility, Load and Traffic Types','Charnjeet Kapoor*, Puneet Jain** and Pankaj Sharma***','2 IJET-SI-2.pdf','',1,'','','','',''),(275,'16','Roadside Traffic Management Unit to Mitigate Prankster attack in\r\nVanet Cluster','Deepak Singla*, Gurbinder Singh Brar** and Shivani Sachdeva*','3 IJET-SI-4.pdf','',1,'','','','',''),(276,'16','Algorithm for Optimization of Automatic Generation Control\r\nTechniques in Inter Connected Power System','Deepak Kumar*, Ravinder Kumar** and Harinder Singh**','4 IJET-SI-5.pdf','',1,'','','','',''),(277,'16','Trend towards Energy Efficient UWSN Protocols','Shivani Sachdeva*, Vishali Bansal* and Gurbinder Singh Brar*','5 IJET-SI-6.pdf','',1,'','','','',''),(278,'16','Zigbee- Effect of Zigbee End Devices Failure on Hybrid Topology\r\nby using Different Trajectories','Deepinder Singh*, Puneet Jain** and Pankaj Sharma***','6 IJET-SI-8.pdf','',1,'','','','',''),(279,'16','Detection and Segmentation of Brain Tumour in MRI in Dwt\r\nPlane','Alka Bansal* and Sukhdeep Kaur**','7 IJET-SI-9.pdf','',1,'','','','',''),(280,'16','A Full Analytical Review on Fingerprint Recognition using Neural\r\nNetworks','Jasleen Kaur*and Sukhdeep Kaur*','8 IJET-SI-10.pdf','',1,'','','','',''),(281,'16','Energy Optimization in Wireless Sensor Network using Back\r\nPropagation Neural Network','Pallavi Bansal*, Gurbinder Singh Brar** and Mandeep Singh Sandhu**','9 IJET-SI-11.pdf','',1,'','','','',''),(282,'16','Arbitration-based Reliable Distributed Mutual Exclusion for Mobile\r\nAd-hoc Networks','Angisha Garg','10 IJET-SI-12.pdf','',1,'','','','',''),(283,'16','Neural Network in Wireless Sensor Network','Pallavi Bansal*, Gurbinder Singh Brar** and Arshdeep Singh**','11 IJET-SI-13.pdf','',1,'','','','',''),(284,'16','Distributed Generation using hybrid model of Solar, Wind and Small\r\nHydro Plant: A Review','Shammi Bahel*, Harinder Singh** and Ravinder Kumar**','12 IJET-SI-14.pdf','',1,'','','','',''),(285,'16','Cloud Computing Services Model and Security Threats','Rajandeep Kaur* and Arshdeep Singh**','13 IJET-SI-16.pdf','',1,'','','','',''),(286,'16','Study of use of Bio-degradable Alternative fuels for Transport and\r\nEnergy sector in India','Atam Parkash Papreja* and S.K. Mahla**','14 IJET-SI-17.pdf','',1,'','','','',''),(287,'16','Novel Approach to Enhance the Security in Cloud Computing\r\nusing AES Algorithm','Nisha* and Nasseb Singh Dhillon**','15 IJET-SI-19.pdf','',1,'','','','',''),(288,'16','Energy efficient Clustering for improving network life time in WSN\r\nusing Fuzzy based technique: A Review','Priya Sethi* and Naseeb Singh Dhillon**','16 IJET-SI-20.pdf','',1,'','','','',''),(289,'16','Hybrid spectrum sensing Technique based on energy and\r\nCyclostationary techniques in cognitive radio: A Review','Roohi* and Naseeb Singh Dhillon**','17 IJET-SI-21.pdf','',1,'','','','',''),(290,'16','Simulative analysis of dispersion Compensation using\r\nDifferent techniques in communication system','Jagjeet Singh*, Kulwinder Singh** and Pankaj Sharma*','18 IJET-SI-23.pdf','',1,'','','','',''),(291,'16','Enhance the efficiency of data transmission and security for Black hole\r\nattack in the MANETs using IDSDV and MDSR routing protocols:\r\nA Review','Kiranpreet Kaur*, Jasleen Kaur** and Vishali Bansal***','19 IJET-SI-25.pdf','',1,'','','','',''),(292,'16','Sybil Attack Prevention using neural network Algorithm','Randeep Kaur* and Gurbinder Singh Brar**','20 IJET-SI-30.pdf','',1,'','','','',''),(293,'16','Anaerobic Baffled Reactor: A promising wastewater treatment\r\ntechnology in tropical countries','K. Ramandeep','22 IJET-SI 32-RAMANDEEP KAUR.pdf','',1,'','','','',''),(294,'16','Water Quality Assessment of Major & Minor Food Establishments of\r\nPatiala','Ankit Gandotra* and Manu Jindal**','23 ANKIT GANDOTRA 33.pdf','',1,'','','','',''),(295,'16','Holistic Technologies and Production Systems: The Shifting\r\nParadigms in Global Energy Scenario','Mandeep Singh Chahal','24 MANDEEP SINGH CHAHAL 31.pdf','',1,'','','','',''),(296,'16','Hot Corrosion behaviour of Metals and Alloys in the Molten Salt of\r\nNa2SO4-NaCl Environment','Sukhminderbir Singh Kalsi* and Bikramjit Singh**','25 SUKHMINDERBIR SINGH KALSI 34.pdf','',1,'','','','',''),(297,'16','Hot Corrosion and its Mechanism: A Review','Sukhminderbir Singh Kalsi','26 SUKHMINDERBIR SINGH KALSI 33.pdf','',1,'','','','',''),(298,'16','Masking Text Messages into Image using Enhanced LSB Technique','Rohit Kumar Jain*, Dr. Rahul Malhotra** and Kulbushan Rassewatt***','27 ROHIT KUMAR JAIN IJET-SI-40-PAPER.pdf','',1,'','','','',''),(299,'16','Improving the Performance of VANETS through The Implementation\r\nof CRCN Along with Predictive Cluster','Rajdeep Kaur*, Simran Sandhu** and Er. Pankaj Sharma**Rajdeep Kaur*, Simran Sandhu** and Er. Pankaj Sharma**','28 IJET-SI-42-PAPER 35.pdf','',1,'','','','',''),(300,'16','Emission Characteristics of Rice Bran Oil Biodiesel as an Alternative\r\nin Single Cylinder CI Engine with DI Ethyl Ether Blends','Jasanpreet Singh, Narinder Singh and S. K. Mahla','29 JASANPREET SINGH 44.pdf','',1,'','','','',''),(301,'16','Study of Combustion Performance and Emission Characteristics of\r\nC.I Diesel Engine Fueled with Biogas and Rice Bran Oil Biodiesel in\r\nDual Fuel Mode','Amandeep Singh*, G.S. Sidhu* and S.K. Mahla**','30 AMANDEEP SINGH.pdf','',1,'','','','',''),(302,'16','Prepaid Metering System by using PLC and SCADA','Hardeep Kaur* and Harinder Singh**','31 HARDEEP KAUR.pdf','',1,'','','','',''),(303,'16','Digital Image Tampering Detection Based on Illumination\r\nInconsistency: A Review','Gurleen Kaur*, Rupinder Kaur** and Kanwaljeet Kaur***','33 GURLEEN KAUR 41.pdf','',1,'','','','',''),(304,'16','Study of Performance and Emission Characteristics of C.I Diesel\r\nEngine Fueled With Different Blends Of Rice Bran Biodiesel','Rajvir Singh*, G.S. Sidhu*, S.K. Mahla**','34 RAJVIR SINGH 42.pdf','',1,'','','','',''),(305,'16','Study of Performance Characteristics of Compression Ignition Engine\r\nFuelled with Blends of Biodiesel from Used Cottonseed Oil','Varun Singla* and S.K. Mahla**','35 VARUN SINGLA.pdf','',1,'','','','',''),(306,'16','Study and Performance Analysis of Homologous Routing Protocols in\r\nMANET: DSDV, AODV and ZRP','Kanwar Parneet Singh Khurmi*, Dr. Rahul Malhotra** and Kulbhushan Singla***','36 KANWAR PARNEET SINGH KHURMI 43.pdf','',1,'','','','',''),(307,'9','Effect of IBA and PHB on rooting of pomegranate(Punica granatum L.) cuttings cv. Ganesh','Simranjit Kaur and Amarjeet Kaur','BFIJ 31 AMARJEET KAUR 1229 Effect of IBA and PHB on rooting of pomegranate.pdf','',1,'In order to study the effect of IBA and PHB on rooting of pomegranate (Punica granatum L.) cuttings an investigation was conducted at the nursery of Department of Horticulture, Khalsa college, Amritsar during 2015-2016. Six treatments were used comprising of IBA (500ppm,1000ppm) and PHB (500 ppm, 750 ppm), their combinations IBA 500 ppm + PHB 500 ppm and IBA 1000 ppm + PHB 750 ppm along with control. The results of the investigation indicated that IBA 1000 ppm + PHB 750 ppm proved to be the best in terms of maximum percentage of sprouted cuttings (86.40%), survival percentage (86.73%), number of shoots (7.71), average shoot diameter (1.29cm), number of leaves (126.00), total leaf area (259.48 cmÂ²), maximum number of roots (24.65), maximum root length (15.40cm) and maximum root weight (2.40 g).','-','The treatment of IBA 1000 ppm + PHB 750 ppm was found to be the most efficacious in encouraging rooting and invigorating the shoot growth in terms of percentage of sprouted cuttings, survival percentage, number of shoots, average shoot diameter, number of leaves, total leaf area number of roots per cutting, root length and root weight in pomegranate cv. Ganesh.','-','Simranjit Kaur and Amarjeet Kaur (2016).Effect of IBA and PHB on rooting of pomegranate(Punica granatum L.) cuttings cv. Ganesh, Biological Forum â€“ An International Journal 8(2): 203-206.'),(308,'9','Evaluation the Soil Fertility Mapping for Corn Production (Zea mays\r\nL.) using Fuzzy and Analytic Hierarchy Process Methods','Marzieh Mokarram* and Ehsan Bijanzadeh**','BFIJ 32 EHSAN BIJANZADEH 1222 Evaluation the Soil Fertility Mapping for Corn Production _Zea mays L._ using Fuzzy and Analytic Hierarchy Process Methods.pdf','',1,'Fuzzy membership function and analytic hierarchy process (AHP) are effective tools to evaluate the soil fertility mapping of corn. To investigate the soil fertility maps using fuzzy and analytic hierarchy process (AHP) models a case study was conducted in Shiraz plain, southern Iran. In the study area from 34 field samples, seven soil parameters including organic content (OC), phosphorus (P), potassium (K), iron (Fe), zinc (Zn), manganese (Mn) and copper (Cu) of the soil were selected for soil fertility maps using inverse distance weighting (IDW) method and then fuzzy and AHP method were employed. Results of IDW showed that OC of soil was between 0.37 to 1.51% and only northwest and south of study area had suitable OC more than critical level. Also, Fuzzy model showed that most of the study area had low OC and need fertilization. All of the models showed that P content for most of the study area was lower than the critical level. Fuzzy map showed that most of the study areas except the','Fuzzy map, critical level, inverse distance weighting, organic content.','The aim of this study was to determination of soil fertility in the east of Shiraz, southern Iran. Seven major soil properties were selected to soil fertility evaluation including organic content (OC), phosphorus (P), potassium (K), iron (Fe), zinc (Zn), manganese (Mn) and copper (Cu) of the soil were evaluated. Mokarram and Bijanzadeh 216 Then, raster map was prepared in ArcGIS for each of the parameters using IDW method. Also, the fuzzy and AHP method used for predictive soil fertility map. The results of the fuzzy and AHP method in this study show that only 0.96% of the lands had highly fertility, 29.92% medium fertility, 62.75% low fertility and 6.34% had very low fertility. Finally it was concluded that for suitable corn production, the fuzzy and AHP method has a higher accuracy for predictive soil fertility and the most important factor in soil fertility was OC and the least important factor was Mn in the study area.\r\n','-','Marzieh Mokarram* and Ehsan Bijanzadeh (2016). Evaluation the Soil Fertility Mapping for Corn Production (Zea mays\r\nL.) using Fuzzy and Analytic Hierarchy Process Methods , Biological Forum â€“ An International Journal 8(2): 207-216.'),(309,'9','Patch Characterization in Bidalna Micro-watershed, DehraDun: A\r\ntime Series Analysis using Remote Sensing and GIS','Sanjay Kumar Pandey* and Stutee Gupta**','BFIJ 34 DR SK PANDEY 1220 Patch Characterization in Bidalna Micro-watershed, DehraDun A time Series Analysis using Remote Sensing and GIS.pdf','',1,'The present study aims to find out the changes in land use land cover (LULC) classes and patch\r\nmetrics for bidalna micro-watershed, Dehradun, Uttarakhand by using satellite data. Such studies are\r\nessential for monitoring the changes in a holistic manner and also provide a scientific basis for anticipating\r\nthe future development. The study area was classified into six LULC classes using Landsat-TM imageries of\r\nyear 1990, 2000 and 2013. LULC change pattern over the span of 23 years was also analyzed. LULC maps\r\nwere further used to derive patch indices namely NP (Number of Patches), PD (Patch density), LPI (Largest\r\nPatch Index), ED (Edge Density), JI (Interspersion and juxtaposition index), SPLIT (Split Index), SIDI\r\n(Simpson’s Diversity Index) and SIEI (Simpson’s Evenness Index) for the corresponding years to understand\r\nthe patch dynamics in bidalna micro-watershed. The most dominant LULC type of bidalna micro watershed\r\nwas forest of sal and pine, occupying 1,724.5 ha in 1990 and 1,278 ha and 1,234 ha in 2000 and 2013\r\nrespectively. There was drastic increase in scrubs from 463 ha in 1990 to 672 ha and 744 ha in next 2000 and\r\n2013 respectively. The area under khair-kanju plantations, settlement and dry river bed had continuously\r\nincreased in due course of time. Number of Patches (NP) and patch density (PD) showed the trend of\r\nincreasing from 1990 to 2013 for bidalna watershed indicating very high fragmentation primarily driven by\r\nanthropogenic factors. Thus increased resource extraction from the entire watershed may not be sustainable\r\nin the long run. Remote sensing is of immense scope in the mapping and monitoring natural resources at\r\nwatershed level and below by providing real time temporal datasets if classified and compared judiciously. It\r\nequips decision makers with providing the baseline data for monitoring and evaluation of the interventions at\r\nthe ground level.\r\n','Landscape analysis, Bidalna micro-watershed, Fragmentation, Remote sensing','This revealed that different spots or land uses emerged\r\nin recent years. These uses followed an abnormal\r\ndevelopment pattern across the area, leading to\r\ndestruction of the area’s natural ecosystems. Expansion\r\nof human dominated uses such as roads, buildings, and\r\nfacilities resulted in destruction and fragmentation – a\r\nfactor that can wreak havoc on the natural resources in\r\nthe area. The focus needs to be placed on removing\r\nsome patches and replacing others. Growth of some\r\nuses threatens the existing diversity and the nature.\r\nHuman dominated use, for example, developed\r\nextremely heterogeneously in the western parts of the\r\narea, whose irregular patches may extend to the eastern\r\nhill side where good patches of sal and pine forests\r\nexist.\r\nThe approach to watershed management\r\nshould be participatory in nature; people friendly,\r\nlocation specific, process based and geared to cater to\r\nthe problems and needs of the rural communities.\r\nRemote sensing is of immense scope in the mapping\r\nand monitoring natural resources at watershed level by\r\nensuring the best possible balance in the environment\r\nbetween natural resources on the one side, and human\r\nand other living beings on the other. Landscape\r\nanalysis at watershed level equips the decision makers\r\nwith appropriate unit for monitoring and evaluation of\r\nproject intervention by providing the baseline data.','INTRODUCTION\r\nThe world around us is undergoing numerous\r\nalterations. There is nearly no habitat or natural\r\necosystem across the landscape not experiencing\r\nchange. This is due to human activities and it has never\r\nbeen a cause of major concern to human until past few\r\ndecades. Natural landscapes are becoming fragmented\r\nat an alarming rate as forest patch are shrinking and\r\neven getting vanished. Thus identification of individual\r\npatches and their boundaries are important steps in\r\ncharacterizing the structure of a landscape and thus\r\ntheir sustainability. The measurement of patch area\r\ninclude total area of habitat suitable for a particular\r\nspecies, maximum patch size, and mean patch size and\r\nare often the simplest to calculate and interpret\r\n(Saunders et al. 1991). Landscape patterns are\r\ninfluenced by the composition and development of\r\nvegetation following disturbances, as well as the\r\njuxtaposition of these disturbances (Oliver 1981).\r\nLandscape ecology has now improved in recent years\r\nand turned into an applicable approach for land use\r\nplanners and landscapers. The assessment of land use\r\nand land cover is an extremely important activity for\r\ncontemporary land management. The recent literature\r\nsuggests that human land-use practices (including type,\r\nmagnitude, and distribution) are the most important\r\nfactor influencing natural resource management at\r\nlocal, regional, and global scales (McDonnell and\r\nPickett 1993). Nowadays, environmental management\r\nis increasingly confronted with the problem of\r\nmanaging and planning entire landscapes which often\r\nconsist of complex, interacting mosaics of different\r\nhabitat patches and ecosystems. Landscape metrics are\r\nuseful for the application of the concepts of landscape\r\necology to sustainable landscape planning and\r\nlandscape monitoring (Herzog and Lausch, 1999). A\r\npossible approach to account for fragmentation analysis\r\nand their impact on landscape structure related might be\r\nthe use of landscape metrics (Feld et al., 2007).\r\nBecause ecological system operates at multiple scales,\r\nunderstanding the spatial configuration and temporal\r\ntrajectory of patch structure is central to understanding\r\nthe ecology of landscape (Forman 1995).\r\nBiological Forum – An International Journal 8(2): 222-228(2016)\r\nPandey and Gupta 223\r\nDuring the past decade, important advances in the\r\nintegration of remote images, computer processing and\r\nspatial analysis methodologies have been linked to the\r\nstudy of distribution patterns of communities and\r\necosystems that affect changes in pattern and process\r\nover time. Satellite remote sensing provides an\r\nexcellent source of data from which updated land use /\r\nland cover (LULC) changes can be extracted and\r\nanalyzed in an efficient way. Several techniques have\r\nbeen reported to improve classification results in terms\r\nof land use discrimination and accuracy of resulting\r\nclasses (Eiumnoh and Shrestha, 2000). In addition,\r\neffective monitoring and simulating of the urban sprawl\r\nphenomenon and its effects on land-use patterns and\r\nhydrological processes within the spatial limits of a\r\nwatershed are essential for effective land-use and water\r\nresource planning and management (Hongga et al., 2010). Landscapes are conceptual units for the study of\r\nspatial patterns on the physical environment and the\r\ninfluence of these patterns on important environmental\r\nendpoints. Land use decision are generally made at an\r\nindividual or local scale, however, the impacts are often\r\nmanifested cumulatively as change in spatial pattern.\r\nIntegration of structure and function of landscaped can\r\nbe perceived and measured by patterns and scales\r\n(Dehkordi et al., 2010). Lin et al. (2007) combined a\r\nland use change model, landscape metrics and a\r\nwatershed hydrological model with an analysis of the\r\nimpacts of future land use scenarios on land use pattern\r\nand hydrology for a landscape management plan.\r\nHowever, the interpretation of specific watershed\r\ncharacteristics is dependent on the particular\r\nphenomena being investigated. The quantified\r\ndifferences in landscape characteristics of each\r\nwatershed provide important information that can aid in\r\nmaking management decisions in our ecologically and\r\nsociologically complex forests (Tappe et al 2004).\r\nRemote sensing (RS) and geographic information\r\nsystems (GIS) have been shown to be promising tools\r\nfor investigating landscape pattern changes at various\r\nscales. Unique capabilities of remote sensing images\r\nsuch as providing an extensive, consistent perspective of an area, employing electromagnetic range to register\r\nphenomena, recurrent spatial and temporal patterns,\r\npace of transmission, diversity of images, and\r\napplicability of professional application software have\r\nmade it an effective tool for assessment, monitoring,\r\nand sustainable management of natural resources such\r\nas soil, air, water, forest, crops, rangelands, and is\r\ngaining a broader range of application. Considering the\r\nimportance of the watershed and its constituents at both\r\nupper and lower levels and its significant control over\r\nthe landscape the present study was undertaken to work\r\nout the changes in LULC in 1990, 2000 and 2013 in\r\nbidalna –micro watershed, Dehradun. It is a model\r\nwatershed to study the different LULC change over\r\ntime as case study for the future use. Specifically,\r\ndifferent approaches such as construction of Land Use\r\n/Land Cover (LULC) maps, optimization of\r\nclassification methodologies and calculation of\r\nlandscape metrics are presented to highlight the\r\ncontribution of satellite remote sensing in addressing\r\nthe issues affecting the overall catchment area. Two\r\nmain objectives are-\r\n(i) To prepare the temporal LULC map for bidalna\r\nmicro- watershed, Dehradun.\r\n(ii) To evaluate landscape characterization by using\r\nFRAGSTATS- v 4.2\r\nStudy Area. The bidalna micro watershed comes in\r\nDoon Valley, state of Uttaranchal, India. The\r\ngeographic extent of the study area is 30º 10\" 00\' to 30º\r\n18\" 36\' north latitude and 78º 07\" 48\' to 78º 18\" 00\' east\r\nlongitude in the district of Dehradun (Fig. 1).It is located under the administrative boundary of\r\nThano Forest Range, East Dehradun forest division.\r\nThe total geographic is 2,553 ha. It receives average\r\nannual rainfall of 2,073.3 mm during June to\r\nSeptember. There is a great variation in the\r\ntemperature; it is hot during the summer and drops to\r\nfreezing point during the winter. The average annual\r\ntemperature is 20°C (Max. 27.8 ºC and Min. 3.3ºC).\r\nThe thano forest area consists mostly of the Moist\r\nShiwalik Sal Forests. The Moist Bhabar and Moist\r\nShiwalik Sal are found in patches in the souther slopes\r\nof this area. Pine (Pinus roxburghii), Sal (Shorea\r\nrobusta), Khair (Acasia catechu), Shisham (dalbergia\r\nsisso), Chamror (Ehretia laevis Roxb.) Kanju\r\n(Holoptelea integriflora (Roxb.) Planch.) and Rohini\r\n(Mallotus philippensis (Lamk) Muell.-Arg.) are the tree\r\nspecies that are mainly found in this forest type.\r\nLantana (Lantana camara) is a weed that has greatly\r\naffected the rejuvenation of the forest in this area and is\r\nespecially harmful for Bidalna micro watershed is\r\nimportant part of this area.\r\nMATERIALS AND METHODS\r\nA. Images and ancillary data used\r\nA geographic information system (GIS) was utilized to\r\nhelp characterize the study area. Remotely sensed and\r\nGIS data sets had been collected for this study while\r\nbasic equipment such hardware and software were\r\nemployed for data collecting and data analysis (Table\r\n1).\r\nFramework : Research methodology was designed to\r\nmeet the objective of the work, which were involved\r\ndata acquisition and land-cover land-use (LULC)\r\nclassification and patch analysis. The detailed\r\nmethodology is presented in Table 2. The information\r\nwas then used to categorise the unsupervised 255\r\nspectral classes into 10 LULC classes.\r\nPatch matrices: Study of patches at a spatial level\r\ngives crucial information on spatial phenomenon that\r\nare guided by various drivers. FRAGSTATS v 4.2\r\ndeveloped by the Oregon State University (Mc Garigal\r\net al 2002) quantifies the areal extent and spatial\r\nconfiguration of patches within a landscape; it is\r\nincumbent upon the user to establish a sound basis for\r\ndefining and scaling the landscape (including the extent\r\nand grain of the landscape) and the scheme upon which\r\npatches are classified and delineated (McGarigal et al\r\n2002). The short summary of metrics description for\r\ninterpretation of patch dynamics are in Table 3.RESULTS AND DISCUSSON\r\nClass indices separately quantify the amount and spatial\r\nconfiguration of each patch type and thus provide a\r\nmeans to quantify the extent and fragmentation of each\r\npatch type in the landscape.\r\nTwo levels of ecological landscape measurements\r\nincluding LULC classes and patch levels were\r\nconducted using landscape indices for bidalna\r\nlandscape pattern measurement and evaluation. The\r\nyear wise LULC map of bidalna micro watershed is\r\nshown in Fig. 2.\r\nA. Land Use Land Cover (LULC) classification and\r\nchange analysis\r\nThe most dominant LULC type of bidalna micro\r\nwatershed was forest of sal and pine, occupied by the\r\narea of 1,724.5 ha in 1990 and 1,278 ha and 1,234 ha in\r\n2000 and 2013 respectively (Table 4). The 864 ha of sal\r\nand 860 ha of pine forests was decreased up to 652.3 ha\r\nand 581.5 ha respectively from 1990 to 2013. There\r\nwas drastic increase in scrubs by 463 ha in 1990 to 672\r\nha and 744 ha in next 2000 and 2013 respectively.\r\nOpen and degraded shrub followed the opposite trends\r\nto that of sal and pine forest. The khair- kanju\r\nplantation had increased from 70 ha to 222 ha from\r\n1990 to 2000 respectively. The area of river and river\r\nbed had continuously increased in due course of time.\r\nThere was continuous decrease in percent area covered\r\nby sal forest as well as pine forest since 1990 to 2013,\r\nwhile this trend was reversed for scrub, agriculture and\r\nriver. From 1990 to 2000, there was decrease in the sal\r\nand pine forested area which was probable mainly\r\noccupied by the scrub and khair- conju plantation\r\n(Table 5). For metrics measurement Sutthivanich and\r\nOngsomwang (2015) found that the landscape pattern\r\nvariations occurred in increasing of fragmentation and\r\ndiversity whereas decreasing occurred in core area and\r\nshape complexity at landscape level in Sakaerat\r\nBiosphere Reserve, Thailand. Concurrently, at class\r\nlevel the indices indicated distinctively the trend of\r\nfragmentation, isolation, aggregation and extent of core\r\narea in the urban, forest plantation, agriculture, and the\r\ndisturbed forest class.As shown in table 5, in the first period between 1990\r\nand 2000, the sal and pine forest were two classes that\r\ndecreasing in their area per annum at 18.1 and 28.1 ha\r\nrespectively. The khair- kanju plantation and open\r\nscrub, on the other hand, was most increasing 15.2 and\r\n19.0 ha per annum respectively. In the second time\r\nperiod between 2000 to 2013 the sal forest continually\r\ndecrease in its area, contrast to agriculture, settlement\r\nand river bed were constantly increasing in its area. In\r\nthis time period plantations (Shisham and khair- kanju)\r\nand degraded scrub decreased very much.\r\nPatch Analysis: It was found that largest patch index\r\n(LPI) decreased continuously from 1990 to 2000 up to\r\n2013 for forest vegetation. This notified that lower the\r\nLPI approaches largest patch of the corresponding\r\npatch type is increasingly small. The very high\r\nfragmentation in this region is contributed mostly by\r\nthe anthropogenic factors. Regular increase in LSI\r\n(Landscape Shape Index) reveled that landscape shape\r\nbecomes more irregular and/ or as the length of edge\r\nwithin the landscape of the corresponding patch type\r\nincreases. Due to high human pressure the IJI\r\n(Interspersion and Juxtaposition Index) followed the\r\nsame pattern as patch density (PD). Increase in the\r\nvalue showed that interspersion was increasing and was\r\nmore juxtaposed to other patch type. The change in IJI\r\nwas more vigorous during 2000 to 2013.IJI indicated the aggregation of the patches in the\r\nlandscape. Regular increase in split index revealed that\r\nlandscape in regularly splitting into smaller patches.\r\nThe split index varied was very high from 2000 to 2013\r\nperiod. As population concentrations grew and\r\neconomic activities intensified, the demand for\r\ndeveloped land (e.g., agriculture, settlement etc.)\r\nincreased, and the consequent growth in urban areas\r\nappeared as “settlement expansion”, or urbanization\r\n(Weng, 2007).\r\nLULC Class level\r\nArea/edge metrics. It was found that NP in bidalna\r\nmicro watershed for Sal and Pine forest significantly\r\nrevealed high changed from 510, 634 and 974 patches,\r\nsimilarly the scrubs showed increasing pattern of NP\r\nfrom 939, 1121 and1201 patches in 1990, 2000, and\r\n2013 respectively. Contrast to the forest, scrubs and\r\nplantations the agricultural landscapes in which\r\ndecreasing in NP from 1990 to 2013. However, LPI\r\nfollowed the reverse trend for sal and pine forests as\r\ncompare to PD. Splitting Index varies with time period\r\nfor different LULC classes. In general, for the forest it\r\nwas generally increased from 1990 to 2013 (Table 6,7).\r\nChanges in landscape pattern through fragmentation or\r\naggregation of natural habitats can alter patterns of\r\nabundance for single species and entire communities\r\n(Quinn and Harrison 1988). Thus, there is empirical\r\njustification for managing entire landscapes, not just\r\nindividual habitat types, in order to insure that native\r\nplant and animal diversity is maintained (Mc Garigal et\r\nal 2002)LSI in the Khar-kanju, pine forest and river landscapes\r\nhad the same trend of increasing in their class from1990\r\nto 2013. This indicated those of landscape type had\r\ngained more amount of their area. Except the degraded\r\nshrub all the other LULC classes landscape had\r\ntendency of increasing in IJI values from 1990 to 2013.\r\nThis indicated that aggregation of the patches in this\r\nwas increased. On the other hand, IJI in the pine forest\r\nshowed low degree of changes from 1990 to 2000. This\r\nimplied that the forest plantation patches were sparsely\r\ndistributed from each other in the landscape. A decrease\r\nin the size and number of natural habitat patches\r\nincreases the probability of local extirpation and loss of\r\ndiversity of native species, whereas a decline in\r\nconnectivity between habitat patches can negatively\r\naffect species persistence (Fahrig and Merriam 1985).\r\nPandey and Gupta 228\r\nThus, there is empirical justification for managing\r\nentire landscapes, not just individual habitat types, in\r\norder to insure that native plant and animal diversity is\r\nmaintained (McGarigal et al 2002).','Sanjay Kumar Pandey and Stutee Gupta (2016). Patch Characterization in Bidalna Micro-watershed, DehraDun: A time Series Analysis using Remote Sensing and GIS. Biological Forum – An International Journal 8(2): 222-228.'),(310,'9','The Tribe Opatrini Brulle, 1832 (Tenebrioninae: Tenebrionidae:\r\nColeoptera) from Uttarakhand with some New Records','V. D. Hegde','BFIJ 35 VD HEGDE 1207 The Tribe Opatrini Brulle, 1832 (Tenebrioninae Tenebrionidae Coleoptera) from Uttarakhand with some New Records.pdf','',1,'The beetles of the National Zoological collections, Zoological Survey of India, Kolkata and Northern Regional Centre, Dehradun were studied and identified with more focus on the tribe Opatrini of sub family Tenebrioninae of the family Tenebrionidae. The paper contains the report of 24 species belonging to 04 genera under the tribe Opatrini from Uttarakhand state. Out of 21 Gonocephalum species reported, 07 species are new records to the state and lonely species reported from the genus Mesomorphus, Opatroides and Scleron are also new records to Uttarakhand state.','-','The beetles of the National Zoological collections, Zoological Survey of India, Kolkata and Northern Regional Centre, Dehradun were studied and identified with more focus on the tribe Opatrini of sub family Tenebrioninae of the family Tenebrionidae. The paper contains the report of 24 species belonging to 04 genera under the tribe Opatrini from Uttarakhand state. Out of 21 Gonocephalum species reported, 07 species are new records to the state and lonely species reported from the genus Mesomorphus, Opatroides and Scleron are also new records to Uttarakhand state.','-','V. D. Hegde (2016). The Tribe Opatrini Brulle, 1832 (Tenebrioninae: Tenebrionidae:\r\nColeoptera) from Uttarakhand with some New Records , Biological Forum â€“ An International Journal 8(2): 229-233.'),(311,'9','Comparative Evaluation of Phytochemical and in vitro Antioxidant\r\nActivities of two Endangered Plant Species of Western Himalayas','Sunayana Singh*, P. K. Chauhan**, Avinash**, Rahul Thory** and Rupak Nagraik**','BFIJ 36 P. K. CHAUHAN 1225 Comparative Evaluation of Phytochemical and in vitro Antioxidant Activities of two Endangered Plant Species of Western Himalayas.pdf','',1,'Present study deals with the quantitative evaluation of phytochemical and antioxidant activities of two endangered plant species, i.e. Rauwolfia serpentina (RS) and Picrorhiza kurroa (PC) of Western Himalayas. The leaf samples of both the plants were collected from wild or natural (W) and field grown (FG) habitats. The phytochemical study showed the presence of different phytochemicals such as total phenols, terpenoids, flavanoids and reducing sugars, whereas alkaloids, steroids and saponins were absent in both plant extracts taken from wild and field grown habitats. Tannins were only present in field grown and wild variety of Picrorhiza kurroa. The total phenolic content was found to be low in field grown variety of RS i.e. 102Â±0.42 GAE mg/g and highest in the wild variety of PC i.e. 181Â±0.52 GAE mg/g. Similarly, the total flavanoid content was found to be low in field grown variety of RS i.e. 12.6Â±0.34 RU mg/g and highest in the wild variety of PC i.e. 65Â±0.31 RU mg/g. In DPPH as','Rauwolfia serpentina, Picrorhiza kurroa, IC50 value, DPPH assay, FRAP assay','In the present study, the wild Picrorhiza kurroa acetone extract exhibited the highest total phenolic content as well as high flavanoid content and its greater radical scavenging and reducing capacity may be due to its higher content of phenolic compounds and flavanoid content. Thus, the therapeutic properties of wild Picrorhiza kurroa leaves may be possibly attributed to the phenolic and flavanoid compounds present. Hence it has been concluded that leaf parts of these plants can also be used as an alternative to other plant parts and acetone can also be used as an alternative to other solvent systems for the detection of phytochemicals. ','-','Sunayana Singh, P. K. Chauhan**, Avinash, Rahul Thory and Rupak Nagraik (2016). Comparative Evaluation of Phytochemical and in vitro Antioxidant\r\nActivities of two Endangered Plant Species of Western Himalayas , Biological Forum â€“ An International Journ'),(312,'10','Climate Change, Migration and Food Security: Evidence from Indian\r\nSundarbans','Dr. Indrila Guha* and Chandan Roy**','9 DR. INDRILA GUHA 1033 Climate Change, Migration and Food Security Evidence from Indian Sundarbans.pdf','',1,'','','','',''),(313,'10','Suitability of Carbon Nanotubes as Drug Carrier','Seema Manchanda, Manoj Rokade, Madhuri Sharon and Maheshwar Sharon','10 SEEMA MANCHANDA 1036 Suitability of Carbon Nanotubes as Drug Carrier.pdf','',1,'','','','',''),(314,'15','Cloud Computing : A Comprehensive View','Priyanka Thakur and Dr. Pawan Thakur','3 PRIANKA THAKUR AND PAWAN THAKUR.pdf','',1,'','','','',''),(315,'9','Taxonomy and Bioactive chemicals from Ganoderma and Phellinus of\r\nIndia','Praveen Kumar Nagadesi*, G. Aravind*, and B. Kannamba**','BFIJ 37 PRAVEEN KUMAR NAGADESI 1226 Taxonomy and Bioactive chemicals from Ganoderma and Phellinus of.pdf','',1,'Many species of mushrooms have been used in folk medicine for thousands of years. Medicinal mushrooms are now the subject of study for many ethno botanists and medical researchers. The lignicolous fungi were collected from living trees in Andhra Loyola College, Vijayawada, India. They were identified as Ganoderma lucidum G. applanatum and Phellinus noxious. The lignicolous fungi were analyzed for bioactive compounds in extraction of Ganoderma and Phellinus based on their polarity solvents like ethanol and methanol. The bioactive compounds like Anthocyanins, tannins, terpenoids, and flavonoids shown excellent concentration in test fungi. The moderate concentration of alkaloids was found in Phellinus noxious. For the first time the bio active compounds like Phenols, Alkaloid and Anthocyanins were reported from G. lucidum G. applanatum. The wide range of bioactive compounds constituents and these can be useful for drug discovery and development of various new formulations. For the first t','Bioactive compounds, Phenold, Anthocyanins Ganoderma applanatum, Phellinus noxious, Taxonomy, India.','Many species of mushrooms have been used in folk medicine for thousands of years. Medicinal mushrooms are now the subject of study for many ethno botanists and medical researchers. The lignicolous fungi were collected from living trees in Andhra Loyola College, Vijayawada, India. They were identified as Ganoderma lucidum G. applanatum and Phellinus noxious. The lignicolous fungi were analyzed for bioactive compounds in extraction of Ganoderma and Phellinus based on their polarity solvents like ethanol and methanol. The bioactive compounds like Anthocyanins, tannins, terpenoids, and flavonoids shown excellent concentration in test fungi. The moderate concentration of alkaloids was found in Phellinus noxious. For the first time the bio active compounds like Phenols, Alkaloid and Anthocyanins were reported from G. lucidum G. applanatum. The wide range of bioactive compounds constituents and these can be useful for drug discovery and development of various new formulations. For the first t','-','Praveen Kumar Nagadesi, G. Aravind, and B. Kannamba (2016). Taxonomy and Bioactive chemicals from Ganoderma and Phellinus of\r\nIndia , Biological Forum â€“ An International Journal 8(2): 240-246.'),(316,'9','The Species Diversity of Assassin Bugs (Heteroptera: Reduviidae)\r\nand their Preys in Central Highlands of Vietnam','Truong Xuan Lam','BFIJ 38 TRUONG XUAN LAM 1227 The Species Diversity of Assassin Bugs (Heteroptera Reduviidae).pdf','',1,'In Central Highlands of Vietnam, field surveys in 3 National Parks, 2 Nature Reserves, Bao Loc and Da Lat in Kon Tum, Dak Lak, Gia Lai and Lam Dong provinces shows that the 57 species of 28 genera, 6 subfamilies (Reduviidae) were recorded, among them 4 species are newly recorded in Vietnam. Among 28 genera, the genera Polytoxus, Sycanus and Sphedanolestes with 4 species, genera Ectrychotes, Acanthaspis, Reduvius, Canthesancus, Pygolampis, Oncocephalus with 3 species, remaining genera with 1-2 species. In five habitats, the higher montane evergreen forest and lower montane evergreen forest is the largest containing 51 species, the lowland evergreen forest and lowland semi-evergreen forest are the second largest 22 species, agricultural ecosystems is containing 16 species, buffer zone is the containing 13 species and grass land is the containing 12 species. The preys of 52 species of Reduviidae were texted.','Diversity, assassin bugs, Reduviidae, preys','The 57 species assassin bugs of 6 subfamilies (Reduviidae) in the Central Highlands of Vietnam were recorded, species Polytoxus rufinervis Hsiao, 1965, Canthesancus trimaculatus Amyot & Serville, 1843, Oncocephalus purus Hsiao, 1977 and Empicoris rubromaculatus (Blackburn) are newly recorded in Vietnam.\r\n Among the 28 genera in Central Highlands of Vietnam, genus Polytoxus, Sycanus and Sphedanolestes with 4 species, genera Ectrychotes, Acanthaspis, Reduvius, Canthesancus, Pygolampis, Oncocephalus with 3 species, remaining genera with 1-2 species \r\n On habitas higher montane evergreen forest and lower montane evergreen forest were highest recorded 51 species; lowland evergreen forest and lowland semi-evergreen forest were second highest recorded 22 species; buffer zone were recorded 13 species; grass-land recorded 12 species and agricultural ecosystems were recorded 16 species. Tested preys of 52 species (Reduviidae) were recoreded.\r\n','-','Truong Xuan Lam (2016). The Species Diversity of Assassin Bugs (Heteroptera: Reduviidae)\r\nand their Preys in Central Highlands of Vietnam , Biological Forum â€“ An International Journal 8(2): 247-252.'),(317,'9','Excelling Role of Small Ruminants in the Economy of\r\nBalochistan-Pakistan; Potentials and prospects','Muhammad Shafiq*, Jan Muhammad**, Zubia Masood***, Nelofer Jamil****\r\nand Zahoor Ahmed Bahzai*****','BFIJ 39 ZUBIA MASOOD 1179 Excelling Role of Small Ruminants in the Economy of.pdf','',1,'A study was conducted during the two years period that extends from 2012 to 2013 to identify the impact of livestock potential and prospects through income generation, women participation and job creation to achieve the prosperity and development for the local population of Balochistan province, which is consider as problematic and restraints region of Pakistan. Present study is mainly focusing on the potential of livestock, especially small ruminants, for the development and prosperity through different factors including poverty reduction and better living standard of Balochistan. The results indicated that potential and prospects had a direct positive influence on prosperity and development through various variables. Income generation ability and job creation were also found to have a strong positive impact on livestock potential and prospects. Women participation in livestock rearing activities is also positively related to livestock potential and with the prosperity and developme','small ruminants, role of women, Economy, development, Balochistan','The primary purpose of this study was to develop and to test a model that examine the relationship of livestock potential and prospect with prosperity and development in livestock sector of Balochistan especially small ruminants. The results of this study provide considerable insight into the livestock potential and prospect that may promote the livestock rearing activities in the province of Balochistan. Hence, the test of model indicates that the livestock has the potential for prosperity and development of common people especially dwellings living in rural areas. Once these factors are identified and rationally prioritized, it would accelerate the pace of development. Result of the study also reveals that potential of livestock is interrelated to prosperity and development in Balochistan. The study also indicates empirical evidence of the impact of livelihood of people in the province. This means the quality of livestock activities will promote prosperity in the lives of inhabitant ','-','Muhammad Shafiq, Jan Muhammad, Zubia Masood, Nelofer Jamil\r\nand Zahoor Ahmed Bahzai (2016). Excelling Role of Small Ruminants in the Economy of\r\nBalochistan-Pakistan; Potentials and prospects , Biological Forum â€“ An International Journal 8(2): 253-258.'),(318,'17','New record of Carpenter bees (Hymenoptera: Apidae: Xylocopinae) from Bhutan','Phurpa Dorji1*, Wim Klein2 & Tshering Nidup','1_JNBR_5(3)_2016.pdf','',1,'','','','',''),(319,'17','New Records of three Convolvulaceae Species to the Flora of the United Arab Emirates','Mohammad Shahid and N.K. Rao','2_JNBR_5(3)_2016.pdf','',1,'','','','',''),(320,'17','Description of a new species Clinostomum awadhi n.sp. (Trematoda: Clinostomidae) in Phalacorcorax niger (Aves: Phalacrocoracidae) of\r\nSanghar, Sindh, Pakistan','Muhammad Moosa Abro, Ali Murtaza Dharejo, Muhammad\r\nMunif Khan and Nadir Ali Birmani','3_JNBR_5(3)_2016.pdf','',1,'','','','',''),(321,'17','Record of Sloth Bear (Melursus ursinus ursinus, Shaw, 1791) from Aravalli District, Gujarat','Ashish Jangid1*, Aradhana Sahu2 and Nishith Dharaiya1','4_JNBR_5(3)_2016.pdf','',1,'','','','',''),(322,'17','Record of Some Spiders (Arachnida: Araneae) from Karhandla in Nagpur District, Maharashtra','Pawan U. Gajbe','5_JNBR_5(3)_2016.pdf','',1,'','','','',''),(323,'17','Ethnobotanical survey of antimicrobial flora of Manipur: A biodiversity hotspot region of North East India','Suresh Kumar1, Khaling Mikawlrawng*2, Pushp Lata3, Sakshi Singhal4, Pranav Punia5, Sunil Kumar6, Prashasti Sharma7, Shwetna Sharma8, Kartik Thakur9, Sangeeta Kumari10, Samridhi Sehgal11 , Ankit Dhoundiyal12','6_JNBR_5(3)_2016.pdf','',1,'','','','',''),(324,'2','s','s','home.php','',0,'','','','',''),(325,'3','ss','ss','ma.php2','',0,'','','','',''),(326,'4','ww','wwss','yan.phtml','',0,'','','','',''),(327,'15','Modeling and Control Strategies for Renewable Based Energy','Tarun Prakash* and Prof. P.K. Sharma**','4 TARUN PRAKASH.pdf','',1,'','','','',''),(328,'4','A Review 5 G Multi-tier Cellular Wireless Network Higher Data Rates\r\nTransmission in MIMO Systems','Shubham Pandey and Prof. Yogyata Shrivastava','23 SHUBHAM.pdf','',1,'','','','',''),(329,'4','A Review 5 G Multi-tier Cellular Wireless Network Higher Data Rates','Shubham Pandey and Prof. Yogyata Shrivastava','23 SHUBHAM.pdf','',1,'','','','',''),(330,'4','A Survey Investigation of the Noise Performance in SAR\r\nEnergy','Ms. Anamika Sharma, Dr. Sanjeev Gupta and Dr. R.P. Singh','ANAMIKA SHARMA DR SANJEEV GUPTA & DR RP SINGH.pdf','',1,'','','','',''),(331,'5','Evolution Towards 5G Multi-tier Cellular Wireless Networks Higher\r\nData Rates Transmission in MIMO Systems','Shubham Pandey and Prof. Yogyata Shrivastava','17 SHUBHAM PANDEY.pdf','',1,'','','','',''),(332,'5','Channel Estimation in Long Term Evolution Using Multicarrier &\r\nMultipath MIMO OFDM Communication System','Sarika Rai and Dr. Jaipal Singh Bisht','18 SARIKA RAI.pdf','',1,'','','','',''),(333,'5','Investigation of the Noise Performance in SAR','Ms. Anamika Sharma, Dr. R.P. Singh and Dr. Sanjeev Gupta','ANAMIKA SHARMA DR SANJEEV GUPTA & DR RP SINGH.pdf','',1,'','','','',''),(334,'5','A Survey: Renewable Energy Based Modeling and Control Strategy','Prof. P.K. Sharma* and Tarun Prakash**','20 DR PK SHARMA.pdf','',1,'','','','',''),(335,'14','Development of Tea Industry in Himachal Pradesh','Meghna Sood','8 MEGHNA SOOD 836 Development of Tea Industry in Himachal Pradesh.pdf','',1,'','','','',''),(336,'10','Traditional Use of Ethnomedicinal Plants of Asteraceae in the Alpine\r\nZone of Tungnath Region','Dr. Vaibhav Sharma','11 DR VAIBHAV SHARMA.pdf','',1,'','','','',''),(337,'9','Antifungal Effects of some Plant Essential Oils against Alternaria alternata (Fr.) Keissl. and Aspergillus niger van Tiegh. from Grapes','Bina Bhattarai and Sanjay Kumar Jha','BFIJ 40 SK JHA 1202 Antifungal Effects of some Plant Essential Oils against Alternaria.pdf','',1,'','','','',''),(338,'9','Biology of Coranus fuscipennis Reuter (Heteroptera: Reduviidae) on two preys species, Corcyra cephalonica (Stainton) (Lepidoptera: Pyralidae) and Ostrinia furnacalis (Guenee) (Lepidoptera: Crambidae) in the laboratory','Truong Xuan Lam','BFIJ 41 TRUONG XUAN LAM 1228 Biology of Coranus fuscipennis Reuter _Heteroptera Reduviidae_ on two preys species, Corcyra cephalonica _Stainton_ _Lepidoptera Pyralidae_ and Ostrinia furnacalis _Guenee_ _Lepidopte.pdf','',1,'','','','',''),(339,'15','De-noising the ECG Signal Using DWT and Kernel Adaptive Filter','Juhi Sharma* and Prof. Vipul Agrawal**','5 JUHI SHARMA 1029.pdf','',1,'','','','',''),(340,'10','The I = 1 Energy Staggering in Odd Superdeformed Nuclei\r\n191Hg, 193Hg and 193Pb','A.M. Khalaf*, M.D. Okasha** and E.H. Ragheb*','12 A M KHALAF.pdf','',1,'','','','',''),(341,'10','A Common Fixed Point Theorem for Separable Hilbert Space','V. K. Agrawal*, Kamal Wadhwa**, Sanjay Chaudhary** and Amit Kumar Diwakar***','13 AMIT KUMAR DIWAKAR 1038.pdf','',1,'','','','',''),(342,'9','Phytochemical Profiling and GCMS Study of Adhatoda vasica Nees.\r\nan Ethnomedicinal Plant of North Western Himalaya','Rachna Verma*, Ashwani Tapwal** and Sunil Puri*','BFIJ 42 RACHNA VERMA 1234 Phytochemical Profiling and GCMS Study of Adhatoda vasica Nees. an Ethnomedicinal Plant of North Western Himalaya.pdf','',1,'The ethnic people of the Himachal Pradesh have great faith in effectiveness of medicinal herbs. The ethnomedicinal plant Adhatoda vasica was analysed for its phytochemical, antimicrobial and antioxidant properties. The ethanolic extract of plant root was analysed against the standard and clinical isolates of five microbial strains viz. Staphylococcus aureus, Escherichia coli, Klebsiella pneumoniae, Salmonella typhimurium and Pseudomonas aeruginosa. The plant root extract showed maximum inhibition against clinical isolate of Salmonella typhimurium (13.3Â±0.5) at 200Î¼g/ml concentration. The maximum antioxidant activity (38.55 Â± 0.22) of root extract of plant was observed at 75Î¼g/ml concentration and minimum (13.47Â±0.47) at 15Î¼g/ml concentration. Standard analysis of phytochemicals in the root extract of plant showed presence of terpenoids, flavonoids, tannins, cardiac glycosides, alkaloids, reducing sugars and saponins. In GC-MS profiling the plant root extractshowed presence of imp','Adhatoda vasica, north western Himalaya, antimicrobial, antioxidant, GC-MS profiling.','In conclusion, Adhatoda vasica is an important plant of north western Himalayas and is presently used for the treatment of asthma in the study area by the traditional practitioners. The scientific investigation of the plant included antimicrobial, antioxidant and preliminary phytochemical studies which suggests the presence of important phytochemical constituents in the plant extracts and which was further justified by the GC-MS analysis of the plant. The presence of various bioactive compounds in the Adhatoda vasica justifies the use of plant for various ailments by the ethnic people of north western Himalayas. From the results of the present study, it could be concluded that Adhatoda vasica contains various bioactive compounds of potential medicinal use and is a plant of pharmaceutical importance.','-','Rachna Verma, Ashwani Tapwal and Sunil Puri (2016). Phytochemical Profiling and GCMS Study of Adhatoda vasica Nees.\r\nan Ethnomedicinal Plant of North Western Himalaya, Biological Forum â€“ An International Journal 8(2): 268-273.'),(343,'9','The Impact of Rainfall Fluctuations and Uncontrolled Exploitation on\r\nGroundwater Systems and Hydrogeological Drought','Seyed Hassan Alavinia*, Seyed Javad Sadatinejad**, Arash Malekian*** and Hoda Ghasemieh****','BFIJ 43 SEYED HASSAN ALAVINIA 1223 The Impact of Rainfall Fluctuations and Uncontrolled Exploitation on.pdf','',0,'','','','',''),(344,'19','FPGA Implementation of Redundant CORDIC Processor','Prof. J. M. Rudagi* and Dr. S Subbaraman**','1 ICRIET-104.pdf','',1,'','','','',''),(345,'19','Design and Study of Pentagonal, Square Slotted Patch Antenna for\r\nWireless Applications','P. A Ambresh*, A.A. Sujata**, P. Jagadeesha***, M. Hadalgi**** and P.V. Hunagund****','2 ICRIET-105.pdf','',1,'','','','',''),(346,'19','A Survey on Sources of Noise and Advanced Noise Removal\r\nTechniques of Biosignals','Umera Banu*, Dr. G.M Patil** and Dr. Ruksar Fatima***','3 ICRIET-106.pdf','',1,'','','','',''),(347,'19','Plus Shape Fractal Antenna with EBG Structure for Wireless\r\nCommunication','S. Jagadeesha*, P.A. Ambresh**, Bharath Raj*** and K. Madhusudhana ***','4 ICRIET-108.pdf','',1,'','','','',''),(348,'19','Machinability & Microstructural Analysis of Al-Si Alloys','R Manjunatha*, Chamdrashekariah** and Girish Kumar***','5 ICRIET-109.pdf','',1,'','','','',''),(349,'19','Zn2+ Influence on Optical and Structural Properties of Nano\r\ncomposite Materials: Optical Communications','Sharanappa Chapi*,** and H. Devendrappa *','6 ICRIET-110.pdf','',1,'','','','',''),(350,'19','Solar Power Generation Based on Mechatronics System','Ravi Chitgopkar* and Ibrahim Patel**','7 ICRIET-112.pdf','',1,'','','','',''),(351,'19','A Survey of Computer Security Incident Handling and Its Issues','M.D. Bhagwat*, Dr. P.H. Patil** & Dr. T. S. Vishawanath***','8 ICRIET-115.pdf','',1,'','','','',''),(352,'19','E-Commerce and E-Governance','Raghavendra Kulkarni* and Sanjay Mainalli**','9 ICRIET-117.pdf','',1,'','','','',''),(353,'19','Finite Element modeling for computational Elastic-Plastic Fracture\r\nMechanics: Crack Tip Opening Displacement (CTOD)','Pradeep Kumar','10 ICRIET-120.pdf','',1,'','','','',''),(354,'19','Design and Development of ARM-7 based Home Security System with\r\nGSM Technology','F. Sudhindra*, S.J. Annarao**, R.M. Vani* and P.V. Hunagund***','11 ICRIET-122 Updated.pdf','',1,'','','','',''),(355,'19','FPGA Based Low Power Digital Frequency Synthsizer','Anilkumar Patil*, Prof. B. Laxmiprabha** and Prof. B. Suryakanth***','12 ICRIET-129.pdf','',1,'','','','',''),(356,'19','A Pandect on Association Rule Hiding Techniques','Dr. K. Prabha* and T. Suganya**','13 ICRIET-148 Updated.pdf','',1,'','','','',''),(357,'19','Metal Hydride based Cooling Systems with Hydrogen as Working\r\nFluid â€“ A Review','Prof. Vijaykumar. G. Tile, K.G. Girish, G.U. Keerthan and M. Shamanth','14 ICRIET-132.pdf','',1,'','','','',''),(358,'19','Reinforcement Learning in Robotics','Vipin Vibhute*, Dr. Yogesh Angal** and Dr. B. Suryakanth***','15 ICRIET-133 Updated.pdf','',1,'','','','',''),(359,'19','Analysis of Dry Sliding Behaviour of Aluminium Reinforced with\r\nCoated Both Sic and Gr Hybrid Composite using Design of\r\nExperiments','Mohamed Zakaulla*, Muzakkir Ahmed Khan**, Tajuddin Yezdani*** and Arshiya Sultana****','16 ICRIET-134.pdf','',1,'','','','',''),(360,'19','Ground Improvement Technique â€“ A View of Stone Column Method\r\nwith the Case Study','P. Yuvaraj* and Prathamesh Raut**','17 ICRIET-137.pdf','',1,'','','','',''),(361,'19','Breast Cancer Prevention and Early Detection using Different\r\nProcessing Techniques','Sachin Kumar*, Dr. Sarika Tale* and Mrs. Kaveri***','18 ICRIET-139.pdf','',1,'','','','',''),(362,'19','Computerized Analysis of Blood Cell Images for the Accurate\r\nDiagnosis of Malaria','Prof. Kaveri*, Dr. Narendra. B. Mustare** and Prof. Feroza Mirajkar***','19 ICRIET-141.pdf','',1,'','','','',''),(363,'19','â€œEnhanced way for Securing Dataâ€™s Through Ontologies and Gridsâ€','G M Kiran, R. Suthan and K.H Swetha','20 ICRIET-145 UPDATED.pdf','',1,'','','','',''),(364,'19','Microwave Assisted Synthesis and Characterization of Mn(II), Fe(III),\r\nCo(II), Ni(II), Cu(II), Zn(II) Cd(II) and Hg(II) Complexes With 5-Methoxy-\r\n2-(5-Methoxy-4, 6 Dimethylpyridin-2-Yl Methanesulfinyl)-1HBenzimidazole','K. S. Kashinath* and Vijayakumar Durg**','21 ICRIET-144.pdf','',1,'','','','',''),(365,'19','Design and Fabrication of a Water Lifting Device without Electricity\r\nand Fuel','L.V. Girish, Purandara Naik, H.S. Bhanu Prakash, M.R. Sunil Kumar','22 ICRIET-152.pdf','',1,'','','','',''),(366,'19','Study on Tribological Behavior of ZA-27/Al2O3/Gr MMC','Ajith G. Joshi*, Ramesh S. Desai, M.V. Prashanth, S. Sandeep','23 ICRIET-154.pdf','',1,'','','','',''),(367,'19','Structural Characterization of TiO2 Doped Polyaniline','Vidyadhara*, Bheemashankar Malipatil**, Nagbasavanna Sharanappa***\r\n, Mahantappa Limbitot****','24 ICRIET-198.pdf','',1,'','','','',''),(368,'19','Local Stereo Parametric Methodsof Disparity Computation using GPU','Mrs. Priya Charles* and Dr. Mrs. A. V Patil**','25 ICRIET-157.pdf','',1,'','','','',''),(369,'19','Tool Life Estimate during Turning of EN24 against Coated Carbide\r\nInsert using Vibration Signal','Dr. Mohamed Khaisar* and Godfrey Devaputra**','26 ICRIET-159.pdf','',1,'','','','',''),(370,'19','Microwave Aided Synthesis and Biological Screening of Drug Based\r\nSchiff Base Complexes of Silver','Shilpa Kodge*, K. H. Shivprasad** and Anilkumar Kodge***','27 ICRIET-164.pdf','',1,'','','','',''),(371,'13','Study and Analysis of Socio-Economic Factors of Dharmshala Tea Company','Meghna Sood','2 MEGHNA SOOD 1019.pdf','',1,'','','','',''),(372,'9','Synthesis, Characterization, and Biological Evaluation of Antibacterial\r\nActivity of 4H-1,2,4-triazole-5-(4-Bromophenoxymethyl)- 3-(4-\r\nsubstituted Benzyl) sulfide','Mazin Nadhim Mousa','BFIJ 44 MAZIN N. MOUSA 1230 Synthesis, Characterization, and Biological Evaluation of Antibacterial.pdf','',1,'A series of 4H-1,2,4-triazole-5-(4-Bromophenoxymethyl)- 3-(4-substitutedBenzyl) sulfide derivative (6a-6g) were designed and prepared. The structures have been confirmed using FT-IR spectroscopy, elemental analysis and H1NMR. Antibacterial study was done using gram +ve ( Staphylococcus aureus, and Bacillus cereus) and gram -ve microorganisms (E. coli and Pseudomonas aeruginosa) and disc diffusion method for evaluation of antibacterial activity. Compound 6d showed the highest effect, while compound 6a showed the lowest. All of the prepared compound has antibacterial activity, but none of them has higher effect than the standard Cefuroxime.','1,2,4-triazole, antibacterial, sulfide','All of the previously prepared compounds have a variable antibacterial activity depending on the type of the substituent. It seems that electron withdrawal group may lead to increase the antibacterial activity.','-','Mazin Nadhim Mousa (2016). Synthesis, Characterization, and Biological Evaluation of Antibacterial\r\nActivity of 4H-1,2,4-triazole-5-(4-Bromophenoxymethyl)- 3-(4-\r\nsubstituted Benzyl) sulfide, Biological Forum â€“ An International Journal 8(2): 285'),(373,'19','Effect of Exhaust Gas Recirculation on Performance and Emission of\r\nDirect Ignition Diesel Engine Fuelled with Diesel-Biodiesel-Ethanol\r\nBlend','Pani Sharanappa* and Dr. M C Navindgi**','28 ICRIET-166.pdf','',1,'','','','',''),(374,'19','Review on Exhaust Gas Heat Recovery for I.C. Engine Using\r\nRefrigeration Systems','Prof. Vijaykumar G Tile, Prof. Shivashankara B.S, Prof. Raghavendra R.R, Sajjan Acharya K and Vishal Somanna K V.','29 ICRIET-172.pdf','',1,'','','','',''),(375,'19','PLC based Automated Flow Control in Cold Drinks Manufacturing\r\nIndustry','Pallavi K. Sajjan and Anand Unnibhavi','30 ICRIET-182.pdf','',1,'','','','',''),(376,'19','Electrical and Magnetic Properties of Polyaniline-Nickel Ferrite\r\nComposites','Ajai Kumar S Molakeri*, A D Shetkar**, Raghunanda B*** and Sangshetty Kalyane****','31 ICRIET-187.pdf','',1,'','','','',''),(377,'19','Automatic Headlight Dipper with Respect to Upcoming Vehicles\r\nResponse','G.M. Pushpanjali*, P.S. Mali**, and R.R. Naman**','32 ICRIET-190.pdf','',1,'','','','',''),(378,'19','Introduction to Metal Cutting','Adarsh Adeppa','33 ICRIET-196.pdf','',1,'','','','',''),(379,'19','Structural Characterization of Tio2 Doped Polyaniline','Vidyadhara*, Bheemashankar Malipatil**, Nagbasavanna Sharanappa*** and Mahantappa Limbitot****','34 ICRIET 198.pdf','',1,'','','','',''),(380,'19','Vidyadhara*, Bheemashankar Malipatil**, Nagbasavanna Sharanappa*** and Mahantappa Limbitot****','Anand Kumar Telang','35 ICRIET-195.pdf','',1,'','','','',''),(381,'19','Genetic-Algorithm-Based Optimization Approach for Energy\r\nManagement','Prof. G. B. Hangaragi* and Prof. Santosh Kolaki**','36 ICRIET-156.pdf','',1,'','','','',''),(382,'19','Heuristic Sentence Boundary Detection and Classification','C. Gnana Chithra* and Dr. E. Ramaraj**','37 ICRIET-223.pdf','',1,'','','','',''),(383,'19','Synthesis and Characterization of Ag2O Doped Polyaniline','Mahantappa Limbitot*, Sangshetty Kalyane**, Nagbasavanna Sharanappa*** and Kamalakanth Lagali****','38 ICRIET 194.pdf','',1,'','','','',''),(384,'19','Groundwater Quality Assessment for Belur, Heggeri and Neeralkatti\r\nArea and its Suitability for Industries and Irrigation uses','Dr. Anand V. Shivapur* and Seema R Basarikatti**','39 ICRIET 119.pdf','',1,'','','','',''),(385,'19','Effect of Sugarcane Industrial Solid Waste on B. C. Soil and Lateritic\r\nSoil','Suryakanth Biradar','40 ICRIET-158.pdf','',1,'','','','',''),(386,'19','On the Supermagic Labelings of Forests','G. K. Dayanand * and Shabbir Ahmed**','41 ICRIET-163.pdf','',1,'','','','',''),(387,'19','Wireless Connectivity in Connected Vehicles for Road traffic safety:\r\nReview and Ideas','B. Lakshmipraba*, Anil Kumar Patil** and Dr. V.G. Sivakumar***','42 ICRIET-185.pdf','',1,'','','','',''),(388,'19','Design Analysis of a Hydrostatic Thrust Pad using CFD Approach','Prof. Rajkumar Panchal* and Prof . M. Rajashekar**','43 ICRIET-220.pdf','',1,'','','','',''),(389,'19','A Study on Different Deadlock Avoidance Strategies in Distributed\r\nReal Time Embedded Systems','Prashant Hebbale*, Raju Hebbale** and Santosh Kolaki*','44 ICRIET-193.pdf','',1,'','','','',''),(390,'19','Open Stubs Loaded Rectangular Microstrip Antenna','Jagadevi C. Gudda* and P.M. Hadalgi**','45 ICRIET-197.pdf','',1,'','','','',''),(391,'19','Routing, Applications and Research Challenges in IoT','S. Channamma, M. Bhuvaneshwari, M. Pooja and J. Jayalakshmi','46 ICRIET-206.pdf','',1,'','','','',''),(392,'19','Nutrients Detection in the Soil: Review Paper','Ashwini A. Chitragar, Sneha M. Vasi, Sujata Naduvinamani, Akshata J. Katigar and Taradevi I. Hulasogi','47 ICRIET-207.pdf','',1,'','','','',''),(393,'19','Modelling and Simulation of three Arm Electrothermal Actuator using\r\nComsol','B. Jyoti* and Dr. S.V Halse**','48 ICRIET-213.pdf','',1,'','','','',''),(394,'19','Automation of Waste Segregation System using PLC','Rashmi M. Kittali* and Ashok Sutagundar**','49 ICRIET-219.pdf','',1,'','','','',''),(395,'19','Security Issues in Cloud Computing: A Review','Sapna Parma and Gangambika Mangane','50 ICRIET 221.pdf','',1,'','','','',''),(396,'19','A Novel Design of Hybrid H-Slot Triple Band Monopole Antenna for\r\nGPS, WLAN and C-Band Applications','Rajeshwari Biradar*, Boya Satyanarayana** and S. N. Mulgi***','51 ICRIET-222.pdf','',1,'','','','',''),(397,'19','Review on Energy Harvesting','Shreya Rangadal, Akshata Baddi, Sujata Naduvinmani, Megha Nalatwad and Deepak Kumar Telgar','52 ICRIET-218.pdf','',1,'','','','',''),(398,'19','Robust approach for spectrum sensing and spectrum allocation using\r\ncooperative game theory approach in cognitive radio wireless sensor\r\nnetworks','Dr. Ruksar Fatima, Shaik Humera Tauseef and Rohina Khanam','53 ICRIET-216.pdf','',1,'','','','',''),(399,'19','Design and Analysis of 100kw Maximum Power Point Tracking Based\r\nPV System in Matlab Simulink at Varying Atmospheric Conditions','Harsha D. Kulkarni, Malaprabha S. Desai and Sonal R. Suryavanshi','54 ICRIET-168.pdf','',1,'','','','',''),(400,'19','Manipulating Big Data Using No SQL','Prof. Shivkumar Anadur','55 ICRIET-179.pdf','',1,'','','','',''),(401,'2','a','a','send.php','',0,'','','','',''),(402,'2','a','a','1shell.php','',0,'','','','',''),(403,'2','vvv','vb','htaccess.png','',0,'','','','',''),(404,'14','Secure Message Transmission with the Implementation of RC4 & AES\r\nCryptographic','Bhimrao Patil','56 ICRIET-204.pdf','',0,'','','','',''),(405,'19','Secure Message Transmission with the Implementation of RC4 & AES\r\nCryptographic','Bhimrao Patil','56 ICRIET-204.pdf','',1,'','','','',''),(406,'19','Resource Management in Wireless Sensor Network','Anand Rakshe, B. Prasad, V. Akshay and C. Channaveer','57 ICRIET-211.pdf','',1,'','','','',''),(407,'19','Effective Contrast Enhancement using Adaptive Gamma Correction\r\nand Weighting Distribution Function','Sukanya S Gaikwad','58 ICRIET-235.pdf','',1,'','','','',''),(408,'19','Reinvestigation of the Existence of Non-Uniqueness Solution of the\r\nFlow of Non-Newtonian Fluid over a Stretching Sheet','P.H. Veena*, G. Jyoti**, V.K. Pravin*** and A. Mallikarjungoud****','59 ICRIET-241.pdf','',1,'','','','',''),(409,'19','Hybrid Power Generation Schemes using Wind Energy and Solar\r\nEnergy','Prof. G. B. Hangaragi* and Prof. Chetan Alatagi**','60 ICRIET-155.pdf','',1,'','','','',''),(410,'19','Numerical Analysis of Dissimilar Metal Welding','Prof . Vijaykumar Chalwa* and Prof. Sachin Kudte**','61 ICRIET-101.pdf','',1,'','','','',''),(411,'19','Performance and Emission Characteristics on Diesel Engine Using\r\nWaste Chicken Fat Oil as Biodiesel','S. Jeevaraj','62 ICRIET-142 updated.pdf','',1,'','','','',''),(412,'19','Design and Implementation of Low Leakage SRAM Acrhitectures\r\nusing CMOS VLSI Circuits in Different Technology Environment','M. Saraswati*, Dr. K. Srinivasa Rao** and Dr. D. Sreenivasa Rao***','63 ICRIET-149 Updated.pdf','',1,'','','','',''),(413,'19','The influence of process parameters on cutting speed of WEDM using\r\nTaguchiâ€™s technique','Sandeep Kumar* and Dr. Ishwer Singh**','64 ICRIET 121.pdf','',1,'','','','',''),(414,'19','A General Study on Secure Data Compression','Nagesh Salimath* and Dr.Jitendra Sheetlani**','65 ICRIET-161 updated.pdf','',1,'','','','',''),(415,'19','Power Generating Knee straps with Hints at End','Amar Vatambe','66 ICRIET-178.pdf','',1,'','','','',''),(416,'19','Estimation of Power Dissipation of CMOS and finFET based 6T SRAM\r\nMemory','M. R. Govind * and Chetan Alatagi**','67 ICRIET-191 updated.pdf','',1,'','','','',''),(417,'19','Emergency Response Notification for Indoor Situations using ZIGBEE','Sangamesh. A. Gama','68 ICRIET-199.pdf','',1,'','','','',''),(418,'19','Fabrication of Pneumatic Sheet Metal Cutter','Raj Reddy','69 ICRIET-200.pdf','',1,'','','','',''),(419,'19','Study of Turbo Charging in Six Stroke Diesel Engine','Vijaykumar. B. Chanshetty* and Harshavardhan**','70 ICRIET-203.pdf','',1,'','','','',''),(420,'19','Simulation, Design and Analysis of Solar Powered Horticulture\r\nIntercultivator Equipment','M. Rajashekar* and Dr. S. Mohankumar**','71 ICRIET-210 Updated.pdf','',1,'','','','',''),(421,'9','Seasonal Studies on Antimicrobial Activities of Crude Hexane and\r\nEthanolic Leaf Extracts of Acacia nilotica L. against E. coli,\r\nStaphylococcus aureus and Candida albicans','Deepika Rana, P.K. Chauhan and Mohamed Azhar Khan','BFIJ 45 DEEPIKA RANA 1238.pdf','',1,'Acacia nilotica has been used by locals over the years to treat several microbial infections. The fresh plant parts of Acacia nilotica is considered as astringent, demulcent, aphrodisiac, anthelmintic, antimicrobial, antidiarrhoeal, with good nutritional value in Indian traditional medicine system. In the present study antimicrobial activity of the crude extracts of six samples of Acacia nilotica were screened against two bacterial strains, E. coli (gram â€“ve), Staphylococcus aureus (gram +ve) and one fungal strain, Candida albicans. The leaves were collected in different seasons from six regions of Himachal Pradesh. Antimicrobial activity was determined by well diffusion method. The concentration of plant extract (75mg/ml) was mixed with DMSO and added into the well. The inhibitory effect of ethanolic extract of Acacia nilotica was relatively higher than that of hexane extract. Combined effect of plant extract and drug was also determined. Leaves extract exhibited considerable bacter','Herbal extracts, fungicide, Acacia nilotica, zone of inhibition.','The present investigation on antimicrobial activity of herbal plant extracts of Acacia nilotica showed that ethanol extract showed promising antibacterial activity against E. coli and S. aureus in comparison to hexane extract. Ethanolic leaf extract of A. nilotica at 75mg/ml concentration was found effective for E. coli and S. aureus. However, this concentration was found ineffective for C. albicans. This study justifies the traditional use of Acacia nilotica in medicine for treatment various infectious diseases caused by the microbes. ','-','Deepika Rana, P.K. Chauhan and Mohamed Azhar Khan (2016). Seasonal Studies on Antimicrobial Activities of Crude Hexane and\r\nEthanolic Leaf Extracts of Acacia nilotica L. against E. coli,\r\nStaphylococcus aureus and Candida albicans , Biological Forum â€“ A'),(422,'9','The Effect of Plant Density and Nitrogen Management on Yield and\r\nQuality of Durum Wheat Lines in Neishabour','Mohammad Sharifi-Al-Hosseini','BFIJ 46 MOHAMMAD SHARIFI-AL-HOSSEINI 1249.pdf','',1,'To determine the appropriate density of durum wheat promising D-81-6 line, a split-factorial randomized complete block design with three replications was conducted during two growing seasons at Agricultural Research station of Neishabur. Plant densities of 400, 500 and 600 seeds per square meter devoted to the main plots and total of two fertilizer treatments of nitrogen fertilizer (including both the 138 and 184 kgha-1) and five treatments of timing of nitrogen application in different growth Zadoks stages were assigned to the subplots. In this study traits such as grain and biological yield, grain weight, number of spikes per square meter, number of grains per spike and grain protein requirements were recorded. Analysis of variance showed that the effects of seed density on all traits except grain yield was not significant in the first year. While the effect of nitrogen fertilizer on all traits was not significant in the first year. Moreover, in case of grain and biological yield','Durum wheat, planting density, nitrogen management','To determine the appropriate density of durum wheat promising D-81-6 line, a split-factorial randomized complete block design with three replications was conducted during two growing seasons at Agricultural Research station of Neishabur. Plant densities of 400, 500 and 600 seeds per square meter devoted to the main plots and total of two fertilizer treatments of nitrogen fertilizer (including both the 138 and 184 kgha-1) and five treatments of timing of nitrogen application in different growth Zadoks stages were assigned to the subplots. In this study traits such as grain and biological yield, grain weight, number of spikes per square meter, number of grains per spike and grain protein requirements were recorded. Analysis of variance showed that the effects of seed density on all traits except grain yield was not significant in the first year. While the effect of nitrogen fertilizer on all traits was not significant in the first year. Moreover, in case of grain and biological yield','-','Mohammad Sharifi-Al-Hosseini (2016). The Effect of Plant Density and Nitrogen Management on Yield and\r\nQuality of Durum Wheat Lines in Neishabour , Biological Forum â€“ An International Journal 8(2): 297-304. '),(423,'9','Genetic Analysis of Physiological Traits and Grain Yield in Bread\r\nWheat under Drought Stress Conditions','A. Eftekhari*, A. Baghizadeh**, R. Abdolshahi*** and M.M. Yaghoobi****','BFIJ 47 ALI EFTEKHARI 1205.pdf','',1,'Physiological traits are very important in wheat breeding programs for drought prone environments. In order to study genetic parameters, a half diallel crosses with nine cultivars of wheat was performed. Parents and F2 hybrids were planted in a randomized complete block design (RCBD) with three replicates in research field during 2013. Physiological traits including chla, chlb, chlT, carotenoids, protein, proline, carbohydrates, antioxidant enzymes (CAT, APX and GPX) and grain yield were evaluated. Diallel results based on method 2 of Griffing B model showed that GCA and SCA were highly significant for all traits. Results showed that the most of genetic variation was due to non-additive genetic variance. In the following, Hayman and Jinks analysis was done. The broad sense heritability for traits was between 0.49 to 0.74 and narrow sense heritability was varied between 0.12 to 0.35. Hayman, Jinks graphical analysis was showed that the control of genes action for traits was to over domi','Bread wheat, Drought stress, Gene action, Half diallel cross, Heritability, Physiological parameters','Totally due to the amount of moderate - to - low broad sense heritability, relatively low Baker ratio and narrow sense heritability concluded that for the physiological traits in this research selection in advanced generations after arrival to homozigosity and genetically fixed should be done. For breeding of these traits, Bulk, Bulk seed discent and Double haploeid method suggested.','-','A. Eftekhari*, A. Baghizadeh, R. Abdolshahi and M.M. Yaghoobi (2016). Genetic Analysis of Physiological Traits and Grain Yield in Bread\r\nWheat under Drought Stress Conditions, Biological Forum â€“ An International Journal 8(2): 305-317.'),(424,'9','Evaluation Yield Stability of Advanced Barley Genotypes in Terminal\r\nDrought Stress Condition','Mohammad Sharifi-Al-Hosseini*, Hamid Reza Komeili** and Behzad Sorkhi***','BFIJ 48 MOHAMMAD SHARIFI-AL-HOSSEINI 1249.pdf','',1,'In order to achieve genotypes with yield stability, 18 selected barley lines with two controls (EC82-6 and EDBYT82-9 for ABYT-DC1). Experiments were conducted for one year, using Randomized Complete Block Design with three replications in five stations of cold region including: Karaj, Mashhad, Miandoab, Tabriz and Hamedan during the cropping season 2014-2015. Simple and combined analyses of variance and multivariate analyses of data for all the traits and index parameters were performed. The results showed that there were significant differences among locations, genotypes and genotype Ã— location interactions in both experiments under different irrigation regimes except for the effect of genotypes in the second experiment. Using all aspects of the analyses, the lines numbers: 13,9,18 and 7 showed the highest yield, and stability for ABYT-DC1 respectively. In overall, based on mean of grain yield, stability parameters and important traits such as early maturity, resistance to diseases,','Advanced lines, Terminal drought, Yield Stability, cold region.','In order to achieve genotypes with yield stability, 18 selected barley lines with two controls (EC82-6 and EDBYT82-9 for ABYT-DC1). Experiments were conducted for one year, using Randomized Complete Block Design with three replications in five stations of cold region including: Karaj, Mashhad, Miandoab, Tabriz and Hamedan during the cropping season 2014-2015. Simple and combined analyses of variance and multivariate analyses of data for all the traits and index parameters were performed. The results showed that there were significant differences among locations, genotypes and genotype Ã— location interactions in both experiments under different irrigation regimes except for the effect of genotypes in the second experiment. Using all aspects of the analyses, the lines numbers: 13,9,18 and 7 showed the highest yield, and stability for ABYT-DC1 respectively. In overall, based on mean of grain yield, stability parameters and important traits such as early maturity, resistance to diseases,','-','Mohammad Sharifi-Al-Hosseini, Hamid Reza Komeili and Behzad Sorkhi (2016). Evaluation Yield Stability of Advanced Barley Genotypes in Terminal\r\nDrought Stress Condition, Biological Forum â€“ An International Journal 8(2): 318-325.'),(425,'10','Fixed Point Theorem on Compatible Mappings of Type (E)','V. Srinivas* and Ravi Sriramula**','14 RAVI SRIRAMULA 1039.pdf','',1,'','','','',''),(426,'10','A Common Fixed Point Theorem for R-Weakly Commuting Maps in\r\nFuzzy Metric Spaces using E.A.','V.K. Agarwal* and Abhilasha Bhingare**','15 ABHILASHA BHINGARE 1040.pdf','',1,'','','','',''),(427,'9','Assessment of Mosquito Culex quinquefasciatus Larvivorous\r\nProspective of the fish Poecilia reticulata and Gambusia affinis','S.R. Karlekar* and R.J. Andrew**','BFIJ 49 SANJAY KARLEKAR 1243.pdf','',1,'The fishes Poecilia reticulate and Gambusia affinis of size measuring 4 Â± 0.5 cm in length were evaluated for mosquito larvivorous prospective against third instar larva of Culex quinquefasciatus. The experiment was carried out with five replicates without supplementary food. The results shown that Poecilia reticulata consumed maximum 31 and minimum 25 larvae, at an average of 27Â± 2.54 larvae per day, while the fish Gambusia affinis consumed a maximum of 44 and minimum 38 larvae at an average of 41Â± 2.82 per day. The post twenty four hours exposure shown that Poecilia reticulata consumed maximum 35 and minimum 28 larvae, at an average of 31Â± 2.91 larvae, while the fish Gambusia affinis consumed a maximum of 48 and minimum 40 larvae at an average of 43Â±3.16.','Poecilia reticulata, Gambusia affinis, Culex quinquefasciatus, larvae.','The fishes Poecilia reticulate and Gambusia affinis of size measuring 4 Â± 0.5 cm in length were evaluated for mosquito larvivorous prospective against third instar larva of Culex quinquefasciatus. The experiment was carried out with five replicates without supplementary food. The results shown that Poecilia reticulata consumed maximum 31 and minimum 25 larvae, at an average of 27Â± 2.54 larvae per day, while the fish Gambusia affinis consumed a maximum of 44 and minimum 38 larvae at an average of 41Â± 2.82 per day. The post twenty four hours exposure shown that Poecilia reticulata consumed maximum 35 and minimum 28 larvae, at an average of 31Â± 2.91 larvae, while the fish Gambusia affinis consumed a maximum of 48 and minimum 40 larvae at an average of 43Â±3.16.','-','S.R. Karlekar and R.J. Andrew (2016). Assessment of Mosquito Culex quinquefasciatus Larvivorous\r\nProspective of the fish Poecilia reticulata and Gambusia affinis , Biological Forum â€“ An International Journal 8(2): 326-329.'),(428,'9','Phylogenetic Tree Construction with Optimum Multiple Sequence\r\nAlignment','Pankaj Bhambri* and Om Parkash Gupta**','BFIJ 50 PANKAJ BAMBRI 1231.pdf','',1,'Bioinformatics concern is related to every living and non-living species on the planet. So, there are massive opportunities to work in this evolving discipline. Proteins are yielded from the DNA sequences after translation and transcription processes. Sequence alignment is a common approach to identification and categorization among the different residues. Through sequence alignment, prediction for the further changes in the existing structures could be identified and it enhances the further research oriented process like drug discovery. As the numbers of protein sequence are enhanced, the complexity for the multiple sequence alignment also increases. In this project, we put the efforts to optimize the multiple sequence alignment process and thereafter designed and developed the phylogenetic tree using distance based methods. ','Phylogenetic Tree, Multiple Sequence Alignment, Distance based Methods, Proteins','Bioinformatics concern is related to every living and non-living species on the planet. So, there are massive opportunities to work in this evolving discipline. Proteins are yielded from the DNA sequences after translation and transcription processes. Sequence alignment is a common approach to identification and categorization among the different residues. Through sequence alignment, prediction for the further changes in the existing structures could be identified and it enhances the further research oriented process like drug discovery. As the numbers of protein sequence are enhanced, the complexity for the multiple sequence alignment also increases. In this project, we put the efforts to optimize the multiple sequence alignment process and thereafter designed and developed the phylogenetic tree using distance based methods. ','-','Pankaj Bhambri* and Om Parkash Gupta (2016). Phylogenetic Tree Construction with Optimum Multiple Sequence\r\nAlignment , Biological Forum â€“ An International Journal 8(2): 330-339.'),(429,'9','Sucrose-Free Milk Chocolate Sweetened with Different Bulking\r\nAgents: Effects on Physicochemical and Sensory Properties','Haniyeh Rasouli Pirouzian*, Seyed Hadi Peighambardoust** and Sodeif Azadmard-Damirchi***','BFIJ 51 S. HADI PEIGHAMBARDOUST 1246.pdf','',1,'In the present study, the effects of substituting sucrose with maltitol and xylitol as bulking agents in compound milk chocolate were examined in relation to their physico-chemical, rheological and sensory characteristics. Standard reference chocolate was made using sucrose. The Casson mathematical model was the best fitting model for predicting rheological properties. Compared with chocolate sweetened with sucrose, significant differences in Casson viscosity, yield value and hardness were observed for sucrose-free chocolates. Generally, there was no major difference between chocolate formulations containing high concentration of maltitol and conventional chocolate concerning the following parameters: moisture content, mean particle size and sensory properties. However, sucrose replacement with the high ratios of xylitol had higher moisture content, greater Casson viscosity and an increased flow behaviour index. These findings illustrate that it is possible to manufacture chocolate us','Chocolate, maltitol, rheology, sensory characteristic, xylitol','A sucrose-free compound milk chocolate with maltitol and xylitol as bulking agents was successfully developed. Substitution of sucrose by maltitol and xylitol blends has varied influences on the rheological properties and physical quality. The effect was dependent not only on the type of sugar alcohol used but also on the concentrations present. Sugar replacement with high mass fractions of xylitol yielded in different physico-chemical and sensory properties in comparison to reference chocolate. High mean particle size and high moisture content of the samples made with xylitol were the main reasons for the higher viscosity, lower sensory scores and hardness of the resulting chocolates. Although the values almost fell in the standard ranges reported for the chocolate. However, it is possible to reduce the magnitude of the changes induced by a decrease in the ratio of xylitol. \r\nA very interesting relationship between particle size of sugar alcohols and some parameters (Casson viscosity,','-','Haniyeh Rasouli Pirouzian, Seyed Hadi Peighambardoust and Sodeif Azadmard-Damirchi (2016). Sucrose-Free Milk Chocolate Sweetened with Different Bulking\r\nAgents: Effects on Physicochemical and Sensory Properties, Biological Forum â€“ An International Journ'),(430,'19','Recent Trends in Nanotechnology and its Future Scope -A Review','Prof. Vijaykumar. G. Tile, H.S. Suraj, B.M. Uday and S.G. Sahana','72 ICRIET-130.pdf','',1,'','','','',''),(431,'19','Designing a framework for Device-to-Device Communications\r\nIn LTE-Advanced Network','Dr. Ruksar Fatima*, Rohina Khanam** and Shaik Humera Tauseef***','73 ICRIET-201.pdf','',1,'','','','',''),(432,'13','Evaluation of Malnutrition in India with Reference to its Poverty','Nilima Y. Bhoge','3 Nilima Y. Bhoge IJAMH 5(2)2016.pdf','',1,'','','','',''),(433,'19','Effects of velocity, thermal and solutal slip boundary conditions on the flow and heat transfer of nanofluids past a linear stretching sheet with prescribed constant wall temperature','M. Subhas Abel* and N. Rajesh Singh Shambajee**','74 ICRIET-181.pdf','',1,'','','','',''),(434,'19','A Detailed Literature Survey Pertaining to the Mathematical Analysis of Viscous and Visco-Elastic Flows with Heat and Mass Transfer on continuous solid surfaces','Ashokkumar Koti, Jagadish V. Tawade, Omkar. C. Kadale and B. Vijayshree','75 ICRIET-202.pdf','',1,'','','','',''),(435,'15','Review of Wireless communication systems using MIMO OFDM transmitting data Through different antenna','Amarjeet Ghosh and Prof. Anoop Singh','6 AMARJEET GHOSH 1029.pdf','',1,'','','','',''),(436,'14','Review on Improvement of Engineering Properties of soil','Jagtar Singh* and Prof. Vinod Kumar Sonthwal**','9 JAGTAR SINGH 837.pdf','',1,'','','','',''),(437,'17','Genetic Diversity of Apis mellifera (Hymenoptera: Insecta) - A Review','Isha Slathia and N. K. Tripathi','7_JNBR_5(3)_2016.pdf','',1,'','','','',''),(438,'17','Records of agarics: New to Jammu and Kashmir','Munruchi Kaur* and Hilal Ahmad Rather','8_JNBR_5(3)_2016.pdf','',1,'','','','',''),(439,'9','An Investigation on Physical, Chemical and Bacteriological Quality of Drinking Waters and Health Issues of the Rural Areas in Uttar Pradesh, India','Shivom Singh* , Abid Ali* , Krishan Kant Upadhyay** and Khursheed Ahmad Wani* ','BFIJ 52 KHURSHEED AHMAD WANI 1232.pdf','',1,'The aim of this research was to analyze the water quality and the health impacts associated with the water quality in rural population of Bareilly, Uttar Pradesh (UP), India. The parameters include pH, turbidity, conductivity; total dissolve solids (TDS), total hardness, calcium, chloride, fluoride and MPN were analyzed by using standard methods of APHA, 1998 and Trivedi and Goel, 1986. The heavy metals viz. Iron (Fe), arsenic (As) and chromium (Cr) were also analyzed by using Atomic Absorption Photometer. Semi-structured interviews were conducted with consumers of water in selected rural areas. The research highlights the health effects of rural people due to poor quality of water and key issues contributing to these problems in rural areas of Uttar Pradesh, India. ','Water quality, heavy metals, fluoride, health, rural areas','The study concluded that poor water quality in rural areas of Uttar Pradesh expose the consumers to several types of health disorders. Hence, it is very necessary to improve the water quality in rural areas of Uttar Pradesh that will not only reduce the burden of diseases, but may also raise the standard of living as well. Immediate visit of health officials in Rewnakala and their intervention to reduce the burden of water borne disease like fluorosis, joint pain and headache is the need of hour. ','-','Shivom Singh , Abid Ali , Krishan Kant Upadhyay and Khursheed Ahmad Wani (2016). An Investigation on Physical, Chemical and Bacteriological Quality of Drinking Waters and Health Issues of the Rural Areas in Uttar Pradesh, India , Biological Forum â€“ An I'),(440,'9','Optimization of Ultrasonically Assisted Extraction of Pectin from Sugar Beet Pulp','M Jafarzadeh-Moghaddam*, SH Peighambardoust**â€ , J. Hesari** and S Azadmard-Damirchi**','BFIJ 53 M JAFARZADEH MOGHADDAM 1239.pdf','',1,'The Box-Behnken design combined with response surface methodology was used to optimize ultrasonic assisted extraction (UAE) of pectic substances from sugar beet pulp. The results indicated a highest extraction yield (16.3%) of pectic substances using UAE method using a frequency of 20 kHz and intensity of 99% for 10 min. In parallel, conventional acid extraction of pectic substances was also carried out. The highest yield could obtain by conventional method was 16% at a temperature of 90Â°C for 4 h. The crude extract of both procedure was then purified by centrifugation. The color attributes of UAE pectin compared to that of extracted by conventional method.\r\n \r\nIndustrial relevance: Pressed sugar beet pulp, a residue of the sugar processing industry, is sold as animal feed at very low prices and readily available for revalorization, with few other commercial uses. Moreover, the drying process requires high energy and often presents an environmental problem. Therefore, numerous attempt','Ultrasonic Assisted extraction (UAE); Response Surface Methodology (RSM);Sugar Beet Pulp Pectin (SBPP).','The optimized results showed that the highest extraction yield of pectic substances by ultrasonic-assisted extraction could arrive 16.26%, using ultrasound frequency of 20.21 kHz and ultrasound intensity of 99.9% for 10 min. The suitability of the model equation for predicting the optimum response value was treated using the selected optimal condition. \r\n \r\n Jafarzadeh-Moghaddam, Peighambardoust, Hesari and Azadmard-Damirchi 362\r\n \r\nThe predicted extraction yield of pectic substances was16.26%, which was almost consistent with the conventional extraction yield of pectic substances of 16.01%. \r\n','-','M Jafarzadeh-Moghaddam, SH Peighambardoustâ€ , J. Hesari and S Azadmard-Damirchi (2016). Optimization of Ultrasonically Assisted Extraction of Pectin from Sugar Beet Pulp , Biological Forum â€“ An International Journal 8(2): 356-362.'),(441,'10','A Kinetic and Mechanistic Study on Degradation of Acid Orange â€“ IV using HCF(III) ions in Aqueous Alkaline Medium','Anjali Goel and Abhilasha','16 ABHILASHA.pdf','',1,'','','','',''),(442,'9','Probioticsâ€™ A New Generation Functional Food-A Review','Mradula Gupta* , Somesh Sharma* and Surabhi Sharma**','BFIJ 54 MRADULA GUPTA 1235.pdf','',1,'Demand of probiotic bacteria has increased and they have become popular, as a result of the researches done to the beneficial effects of probiotics on human health, during last two decades. The probiotics are actively used in the food industry and have been incorporated in various food products such as in fermented dairy foods, non dairy products, plant based products, functional foods etc. Lactic acid bacteria, such as Lactobacillus and Bifidobacterium species exert their beneficial effects as probiotics through various mechanisms. In this review article, effects of probiotics on health, selection criteria , mechanisms of action of probiotics, advances of the probiotics in possible beneficial properties in the literature and emphasis of probiotics in food is discussed.','Probiotics, Fermented foods, Lactic acid bacteria, prebiotics, synbiotics.','Demand of probiotic bacteria has increased and they have become popular, as a result of the researches done to the beneficial effects of probiotics on human health, during last two decades. The probiotics are actively used in the food industry and have been incorporated in various food products such as in fermented dairy foods, non dairy products, plant based products, functional foods etc. Lactic acid bacteria, such as Lactobacillus and Bifidobacterium species exert their beneficial effects as probiotics through various mechanisms. In this review article, effects of probiotics on health, selection criteria , mechanisms of action of probiotics, advances of the probiotics in possible beneficial properties in the literature and emphasis of probiotics in food is discussed.','-','Mradula Gupta , Somesh Sharma and Surabhi Sharma (2016). Probioticsâ€™ A New Generation Functional Food-A Review , Biological Forum â€“ An International Journal 8(2): 363-375(2016).'),(443,'9','Six Steps Management Model for Quality Improvement of Drinking Water','Moghira Badar* , Imran Ali** and Muhammad Luqman***','BFIJ 55 MOGHIRA BADAR 1258.pdf','',1,'In our present study we had taken three types of water samples from Canal, water storage tanks and ground water. This management plane is discussed under different steps and applicable for safe drinking if water was taken from any three sources as canal water, ground water and water storages tanks. Water management plane comes from real observations from our results of this study which give us line of action for the necessary treatment of drinking water for domestic purposes. The Study on the canal water was different from study of ground water and water storages tanks, so it observed that during the midwinter the uniform temperature of the canal water is noted. This temperature of canal water will helps to control the algae and cyanobacteria growth. It is observed that during summer monthâ€™s temperature of algae and cyanobacteria also increased the water contamination.','Management, Model, Toxins, Quality, Coagulation, Chlorination','During this study, it is observed some factors that affect chlorination and microbial disinfection as contaminated canal water for drinking purpose needs dose 3mg/l of chlorine for complete disinfection without residues and 1.5 mg/l dose of chlorine is required for treating the drinking water of storage tanks without any toxicity causing by chlorine residues.\r\nAlum is categorized into as acid salt due to it has sulphate group and then change into sulphuric acid, then this acid reacts with the alkalinity present in the water. Last management step in coagulation is adding from 5 to 30 mg/l as the differing quantities of Aluminum Sulphate in the drinking water samples. Manage the mixing for a set time the solutions are allowed to settle and then correct dose put inside because dose of coagulation depend on how water is polluted.\r\n','-','Moghira Badar , Imran Ali and Muhammad Luqman (2016). Six Steps Management Model for Quality Improvement of Drinking Water , Biological Forum â€“ An International Journal 8(2): 376-378.'),(444,'9','A Management Study on Recovery and Recycling of Useful Material in Leather Tanning Industry','Moghira Badar* , Imran Ali** and Muhammad Luqman***','BFIJ 56 MOGHIRA BADAR 1259.pdf','',1,'This paper deals with the process development for recycling of waste chemicals. Basic chromium sulfate (BCS) is one of the expensive and widely used chemicals in chrome tanning process. We have economically recovered BCS up to 99 % however 1% is left as impurity in effluents. Sodium sulphide is recovered up to 99.5 from the composite wastewater using the very economical method. This paper also deals with the locally devolved technique of de-liming by the use of CO2. The results show that in case of skins, the use of ammonium sulfate can be completely eliminated where as in case of bovine hides the use of ammonium sulfate can be reduced to 20 to 50% (w/w), depending upon the thickness of the pelt (limed hides or skins). These results in proportional reduction of ammonia gas produced along with the reduction in concentration of BOD, COD and sulfate ions by the same amount. ','Liming process, Chromium Recovery, Precipitation Agent, Float, Chromium Sulphate','It is concluded that here recycling of chrome lime and pickle are very much effective in reducing the pollution load at the final drain and are equally effective source of chemical land water conservation. All these options are financially feasible without any compromising leather quality.\r\nChrome recycling system results in, 24% basic chromium sulfate cost saving. Whereas with recycling, its concentration lowered down from 87 mg/1 to only 12mg/1 and chromium load reduction was about 60 kg/d. which is still higher than the NEQS limit of 1.0 mg/1 and needs further treatment of comply with this standard. Which is possible by separate treatment of chrome contaminated stream. Sulfate reduction is quite significant, which is about 925 kg /d (73%) and final effluent comply NEQS limit of 600mg/l.\r\nIt is recommended to adopt further cleaner production options like, slat dedusting, recycling of de-dusted salt in the pickle processes, CO2 Deliming and dye recycling for chemical saving and furthe','-','Moghira Badar , Imran Ali** and Muhammad Luqman (2016). A Management Study on Recovery and Recycling of Useful Material in Leather Tanning Industry , Biological Forum â€“ An International Journal 8(2): 379-383. '),(445,'15','Review of Several Optimization Techniques for Control of Induction Motor','Rashmi Tiwari* and Dr. Satish Kumar Yawale**','7 RASHMI TIWARI 1030.pdf','',1,'','','','',''),(446,'17','New specific records of Cladonia from North- Western Himalayas, India','Indu Bhushan Prasher*, Sushma and Hem Chander','9_JNBR_5(3) 2016.pdf','',1,'','','','',''),(447,'17','Epilobium hirsutum L. (Onagraceae): A New Distributional Report for Northern Haryana, India','Inam Mohammed & Amarjit Singh*','10_JNBR_5(3)_2016.pdf','',1,'','','','',''),(448,'9','Determination of Hybrid Cultivars and Seed Sowing Time of Sweet Corn (Zea Mays L. Var. Saccharata) at High Altitudes','Caner Yerli*, Haydar Balci** and Suat Sensoy***','BFIJ 57 CANER YERLI 1260.pdf','',1,'Production and consumption of sweet corn in the world have been increasing. In this context, the aims of our study were to provide an alternative product in high altitude where sweet corn is not common and to determine the yield and quality criteria of different sweet corn cultivars and different seed sowing time in this region, Van (Turkey) having 1720 m altitude. In the study, four hybrid sweet corn (Challenger, Overland, Jubilee and 8529) and one control hybrid maize (3167) were evaluated at four different sowing times (May 27th, June 10th, June 24th and July 8th) in 2014 and 2015. At the end of the study, revealed significant difference of sowing date and cultivars on all yield components. It was determined that the most suitable seed sowing time for sweet corn was between June 24th and July 8th and Challenger was the most suitable cultivar at high altitude.','Cultivar, Sowing time, Sweet corn, High altitude, Van.','It was determined that increasing soil and ambient temperatures resulted in positive outcomes for the sweet corn that reacts well to warm temperatures and caused increases in cob length, unhusked cob weight, cobs number per plant and these increased resulted in a better yield. \r\nThe properties investigated in the current study are the basic parameters that affect the yield and the quality. It was determined that these parameters vary with sowing periods and cultivars used. It was further identified that cv. Challenger performed the best with respect to all investigated parameters. Larger kernel and high kernel weight of cv. Challenger render this cultivar more usable for canning and frozen food industries when compared to other cultivars. \r\nThe present study conducted in Van region showed that the earliest cultivar was Overland and the latest one was 8529. It was found that sweet corn cultivars matured earlier than cv. 3167 which is control maize. As a result, it was determined that 17','-','Caner Yerli, Haydar Balci and Suat Sensoy (2016). Determination of Hybrid Cultivars and Seed Sowing Time of Sweet Corn (Zea Mays L. Var. Saccharata) at High Altitudes , Biological Forum â€“ An International Journal 8(2): 384-391. '),(449,'9','A Study of Ambient Air Quality of Yamuna Nagar City in Haryana','Amarjit Singh','BFIJ 58 DR AMARJEET SINGH 1269.pdf','',1,'Rapid growth in human population and extensive industrialization around the world has resulted in the degradation of environment in the last five decades. So, air quality monitoring is important to know the baseline status of various gaseous pollutants and suspended particulate matter (SPM) of any area. An air quality analysis for respirable suspended particulate matter (RSPM) and non respirable suspended particulate matter (NRSPM) of Yamuna Nagar, Haryana was carried out on three sites namely residential area, commercial area and the industrial area in the city. The two values have been added to find out the level of SPM. The value of RSPM and NRSPM were found to be higher than the limits set by National Ambient Air Quality Standards in all the three sites.','RSPM, NRSPM, Residential area, Commercial area, Industrial area.\r\n \r\n','Rapid growth in human population and extensive industrialization around the world has resulted in the degradation of environment in the last five decades. So, air quality monitoring is important to know the baseline status of various gaseous pollutants and suspended particulate matter (SPM) of any area. An air quality analysis for respirable suspended particulate matter (RSPM) and non respirable suspended particulate matter (NRSPM) of Yamuna Nagar, Haryana was carried out on three sites namely residential area, commercial area and the industrial area in the city. The two values have been added to find out the level of SPM. The value of RSPM and NRSPM were found to be higher than the limits set by National Ambient Air Quality Standards in all the three sites.','-','Amarjit Singh (2016). A Study of Ambient Air Quality of Yamuna Nagar City in Haryana , Biological Forum â€“ An International Journal 8(2): 392-396.'),(450,'9','The Interrelationship between Calcium and Salicylic Acid Pulsing on\r\nVase Life and Flower Opening of Cut Rose Flower','Rahim Naghshiband Hassani and Hero Karimi','BFIJ 59 RAHIM NAGHSHIBAND HASSANI 1247.pdf','',1,'This study examined the effect of pulsing salicylic acid and calcium chloride and then sucrose holding of cut rose flower cv. Velvet, on its vase life and water balance. Flowers were placed in the pulsing solution containing salicylic acid (0, 1 and 2mM), calcium chloride (0, 2.5 and 5mM) and their combinations for 24 hours. All cut stems then transferred to the holding solution with sucrose (0 and 2%) and 8-HQS (250mg.L-1) for all treatment combinations. The most effective treatment in increasing vase life (22 days) observed in the combination treatment of salicylic acid at concentration of 2mM with calcium chloride treatment of 5mM. Water uptake increased significantly by salicylic acid 2mM and sucrose 2% holding as it reached to the highest level (4.5 g. stem. day) in comparison with control. The relative fresh weight of cut stems increased significantly by salicylic acid pulsing 2mM alone and calcium chloride pulsing 5mM alone with sucrose 2% holding. The highest value of petal ','Cut rose flower, anti-senescence agents, water balance, carbohydrate supply.','Pulsing with salicylic acid and CaCl2 alone and their combinations extended the vase life of cut rose flower cv. Velvet. The most effective concentrations of salicylic acid and CaCl2 in improving vase life and water balance of cut stem as well as better flower opening during vase period obtained at 2mM and 5mM, respectively. While about their effect on improving the membrane stability index of petal cells of studied cultivar, the concentrations of 1 and 2.5 mM of salicylic acid and CaCl2 were more beneficial. Their improving effects on the qualitative and quantitative attributes of cut rose stem cv. Velvet increased by the existence of sucrose in the vase solution. According to the results of this experiment, it seems that the application of salicylic acid and CaCl2 as natural, cheap, safe, and biodegradable compounds can be suitable alternative chemical treatments in order to prolong vase life of cut rose flower. ','-','Rahim Naghshiband Hassani and Hero Karimi (2016). The Interrelationship between Calcium and Salicylic Acid Pulsing on\r\nVase Life and Flower Opening of Cut Rose Flower , Biological Forum â€“ An International Journal 8(2): 397-404. '),(451,'9','Water Quality Evaluation of Satluj River with reference to Heavy Metals at Himachal Pradesh, India','Navendu Sharma* and Yogesh Kumar Walia**','BFIJ 60 NAVENDU SHARMA AND YOGESH KUMAR WALIA 1268.pdf','',1,'Rivers are natural water bodies having various beneficial uses for mankind but these are severely polluted. In this study the analysis of Heavy Metals of Satluj river was undertaken. For this study four sampling stations were identified on the basis of pollution sources and samples from different stations were collected from May, 2015 to April, 2016. Heavy metals as Copper (Co), Cadmium (Cd), Chromium (Cr), Manganese (Mn), Nickel (Ni), Zinc (Zn) and Mercury (Hg) were analyzed. The analyses were carried out according to APHA, 2012 procedures. The results revealed that the different conditions Satluj river in different sampling stations showed fluctuations in some heavy metals. The analysis of data reveals that Cadmium, Chromium and Manganese were found to be higher than the permissible limit prescribed by Bureau of Indian standards (BIS), 2012 for drinking water in India and WHO, 2011 standards. The average values of Copper, Nickel, Zinc and Mercury was within permissible limit proposed','Water quality, heavy metals, Satluj river, Cadmium, Chromium and Manganese.','This study provides an informative data and helps to understand the contamination of Satluj river. The major sources of pollutants are local anthropogenic activities, agricultural runoff, industrial effluent and siltation. In the present study it was found that Heavy Metals Copper (Cu), Nickel (Ni), Zinc (Zn) and Mercury (Hg) were under prescribed limits at all sampling stations but Cadmium (Cd), Chromiun (Cr) and Manganese (Mn) crossed the maximum permissible limit, due to heavy mixing of effluents, domestic sewage and siltation. This study concluded that the water quality of Satluj river has been severely deteriorated.','-','Navendu Sharma and Yogesh Kumar Walia (2016). Water Quality Evaluation of Satluj River with reference to Heavy Metals at Himachal Pradesh, India , Biological Forum â€“ An International Journal 8(2): 405-409.'),(452,'10','Validated Stability Indicating RP-HPLC Method for Silmutanious Determination of Benzbromarone and Diclofenac Potassium in Vitro Dissolution Studies from Tablet Dosage Form','M.B. Durgavale and M.D. Rokade','17 M.B. DURGAVALEa.pdf','',1,'','','','',''),(453,'14','Study of Solar PVT-PCM Hybrid System with Possible Modifications to Increase Module and Thermal Efficiency','Pooja Shukla* , Nilesh Diwakar** and Namish Mehta***','10 POOJA SHUKLA.pdf','',1,'','','','',''),(454,'20','Improvement of Engineering Properties of clayey soil using shredded rubber tyre','Jagtar Singh* and Prof. Vinod Kumar Sonthwal**','1 JAGTAR SINGH 839.pdf','',1,'','','','',''),(455,'14','Digital Video Broadcasting using MIMO-OFDM WIMAX Wireless Area Network System','Amarjeet Ghosh* and Prof. Anoop Singh**','11 AMARJEET GHOSH.pdf','',1,'','','','',''),(456,'15','Minimization of power consumption in massive MIMO','Syed Azhar Ulhaq* and Aashish Patidar**','8 SYED AZHAR ULHAQ.pdf','',1,'','','','',''),(457,'21','Studies on Different Cocooning Device in Muga Silkworm (Antheraea assamensis, Helfer)','Rajesh Kumar, Girin Rajkhowa, Dulal Goswami and B.K. Singh','1 BFIJ RAJESH KUMAR 1263 Studies on Different Cocooning Device in Muga Silkworm.pdf','',1,'Study was undertaken to evaluate the performance of different types of cocooning device of muga silkworm viz., Box type mountage, Plastic collapsible mountage, Bamboo Chandraki, Rotary mountage and the traditional Jali taking into consideration of the efficiency in cocooning, economic cocoon characters and convenient handling (easy to handle) as key parameters of the study. The comparative analysis of the performances of all the mountages revealed that Plastic collapsible mountage performed better results with regard to cocooning, the primary economic cocoon character which was recorded highest of 69 % as compared to Box type mountage (66 %) and the traditional Jali (63.75 %). Assessment of cocoon characters showed better performance in plastic mountage with regard to single cocoon weight (4.515 g in male & 5.514 g in female), single shell weight (0.382 g in male & 0.403 g in female) and silk ratio (8.465 % in male & 7.242% in female). Single cocoon analysis for reeling performance ','Muga silkworm, mountage, cocooning, plastic mountage and Jali.','Analysis of data revealed that Plastic collapsible mountage performed comparatively better results with regard to all the economic cocoon characters followed by box type mountage as compared to the traditional Jali though there was no significant difference among these treatments. However, Rotary mountage and Bamboo chandraki performed significantly low among the mountages. \r\n\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\nHowever, keeping in view of convenience of handling right from mounting of matured silkworms to harvesting of cocoons, durability, less space for keeping, easy disinfection, easy transportation and prevention of escaping worms, Plastic collapsible mountage can be recommended as a substitute of Box type mountage for cocooning of muga silkworm. \r\n','-','Rajesh Kumar, Girin Rajkhowa, Dulal Goswami and B.K. Singh (2017). Studies on Different Cocooning Device in Muga Silkworm (Antheraea assamensis, Helfer) , Biological Forum â€“ An International Journal 9(1): 01-06. '),(458,'21','A new species of predatory mite (Prostigmata: Cunaxidae: Cunaxa) from Kerala, India','M. P. Rahul, Mary Anithalatha Sadanandan and P. P. Santhosh','2 BFIJ MP RAHUL 1264 A .pdf','',1,'Mites belonging to the family Cunaxidae are potential predators of harmfull mites and insects. During a survey on predatory mites associated with vegetable crops in North Kerala yielded a new species of cunaxid mite under the genus Cunaxa viz., Cunaxa soansi sp.nov is described and illustrated. It was collected from Manihot esculenta leaves infested with Tetranychus neocalidonicus.','Predatory mite, Prostigmata, Cunaxidae, Cunaxa, New species, Kerala.','Mites belonging to the family Cunaxidae are potential predators of harmfull mites and insects. During a survey on predatory mites associated with vegetable crops in North Kerala yielded a new species of cunaxid mite under the genus Cunaxa viz., Cunaxa soansi sp.nov is described and illustrated. It was collected from Manihot esculenta leaves infested with Tetranychus neocalidonicus.','-','M. P. Rahul, Mary Anithalatha Sadanandan and P. P. Santhosh (2017). A new species of predatory mite (Prostigmata: Cunaxidae: Cunaxa) from Kerala, India , Biological Forum â€“ An International Journal 9(1): 07-09.'),(459,'14','Analytical Method Validation for Related Substances of Benzbromarone Drug of Uricosuric Agent Category','M.B. Durgavale and M.D. Rokade','12 M.B. DURGAVALE.pdf','',1,'','','','',''),(460,'21','Studies on Lipoxygenase activity levels in seed and during seed germination in different genotypes of tobacco (Nicotiana tabacum L.)','K. N. Subrahmanya* and M. Krishnappa**','3 BFIJ K. N. SUBRAHMANYA 1266 Studies on Lipoxygenase activity levels in seed and during seed germination in different genotypes of tobacco (Nicotiana tabacum L.).pdf','',1,'Lipoxygenase activity was measured in seed and germinating seeds of different genotypes of tobacco with varied reaction to the pathogen Tobacco Mosaic Virus. Lipoxygenase enzyme activity level in seeds of resistant genotype Va 770 was double than that in the susceptible (FCV Spl.). The trend of results was validated with a series of genotypes with varied levels of resistance/susceptibility. The susceptible genotypes recorded the lowest activity. The level of enzyme during sprouting in tobacco mosaic virus resistant genotype was 60% higher as compared to that in susceptible variety. The tolerant variety showed only 20% higher activity than the susceptible. Higher lipoxygenase activity may have a protective function in resistant genotype at the initial stage of germination (sprout) which is vulnerable to infection. Extent of activation of enzyme during seed germination and seedling growth varied with the variety. Initial activation of lipoxygenase followed by a decrease in enzyme activit','Lipoxygenase, Enzyme, Seed, Tobacco Mosaic Virus, Resistance, Tobacco','Lipoxygenase activity was measured in seed and germinating seeds of different genotypes of tobacco with varied reaction to the pathogen Tobacco Mosaic Virus. Lipoxygenase enzyme activity level in seeds of resistant genotype Va 770 was double than that in the susceptible (FCV Spl.). The trend of results was validated with a series of genotypes with varied levels of resistance/susceptibility. The susceptible genotypes recorded the lowest activity. The level of enzyme during sprouting in tobacco mosaic virus resistant genotype was 60% higher as compared to that in susceptible variety. The tolerant variety showed only 20% higher activity than the susceptible. Higher lipoxygenase activity may have a protective function in resistant genotype at the initial stage of germination (sprout) which is vulnerable to infection. Extent of activation of enzyme during seed germination and seedling growth varied with the variety. Initial activation of lipoxygenase followed by a decrease in enzyme activit','-','K. N. Subrahmanya* and M. Krishnappa (2017). Studies on Lipoxygenase activity levels in seed and during seed germination in different genotypes of tobacco (Nicotiana tabacum L.) , Biological Forum â€“ An International Journal 9(1): 10-13.'),(461,'21','Designing and Implementing Applied Rural Sustainable Development Model using Renewable Energies for the Purpose of Energy Saving in Iran','Mehdi Karami Dehkordi*, Hossein Kohestani*, Hossein Yadavar**, and Ramin Roshandel***','4 BFIJ MEHDI KARIMI 1279.pdf','',1,'In a glance, more than three billion people live in the rural areas of low and middle-income countries. In most cases, rural households have many unmet energy needs including cooking, lighting, heating, transportation, and telecommunication needs. Designing appropriate solutions to meet these needs requires an understanding of human, natural and engineered systems that drive village energy. The objective of this study is therefore to investigate energy demand patterns of households in rural communities and thereafter designing and Implementing Applied Rural Sustainable Development Model with the use of Renewable Energies in Iran.','Iran, Conceptual Model, Regenerative energy, Rural, energy saving, renewable, Sustainable. ','In a glance, more than three billion people live in the rural areas of low and middle-income countries. In most cases, rural households have many unmet energy needs including cooking, lighting, heating, transportation, and telecommunication needs. Designing appropriate solutions to meet these needs requires an understanding of human, natural and engineered systems that drive village energy. The objective of this study is therefore to investigate energy demand patterns of households in rural communities and thereafter designing and Implementing Applied Rural Sustainable Development Model with the use of Renewable Energies in Iran.','-','Mehdi Karami Dehkordi*, Hossein Kohestani*, Hossein Yadavar**, and Ramin Roshandel (2017). Designing and Implementing Applied Rural Sustainable Development Model using Renewable Energies for the Purpose of Energy Saving in Iran , Biological Forum â€“ An I'),(462,'21','Medium Engineering for Micropropagation of Rose (Rosa hybrida L.) cv. First Red','Pawan Kumar Sharma','5 BFIJ PAWAN KUMAR SHARMA 1282.pdf','',1,'In present study, the axillary buds were used to regenerate whole plant under in vitro conditions. Out of 23 media compositions supplemented with different combinations of plant growth regulators, only 10 medium concentrations responded and MS basal medium with BAP 4mg/l and GA3 3mg/l was best with 70% bud break after 5 weeks of initial culturing. Releases of phenols were checked through addition of ascorbic acid @ 200 mg/l in combination with PVP (100mg/l). Finally MS medium supplemented with TDZ (0.5mg/l) in addition to antioxidants, totally controlled yellowing & senescence. On an average 9 shoots were obtained on this medium with average shoot length of 2.37 cm after every four weeks. 22Â°C was the most congenial temperature for shoot multiplication. Stem tissue of about 2cm gave average eight shoots while only an average of 2 shoots were obtained when the size was 0.5cm. Additionally, it was observed that rate of bud break was much higher when explants were collected after 40 days','Axiilary buds, in vitro propagation, Murashige and Skoog medium, shooting, rooting.','A fully reproducible protocol for in vitro propagation of rose (Rosa hybrida L.)cv. First Red has been developed using axillary buds as explants. Rose is an important ornamental plant which needs to be multiplied at a fast rate to fulfill the demands of floriculture industry. In the present investigations various obstacles were met at different stages of micro propagation. These were one by one overcome by following/ modifying different cultural conditions and practices.','-','Pawan Kumar Sharma (2017). Medium Engineering for Micropropagation of Rose (Rosa hybrida L.) cv. First Red , Biological Forum â€“ An International Journal 9(1): 26-30.'),(463,'21','Assessment of Phytochemical screening and Antifungal Activity of Parthenium hysterophrous L.','A. Devkota and A. Sahu','6 BFIJ A DEVKOTA 1267.pdf','',1,'Phytochemical screening and Antifungal activities of Parthenium hysterophrous L (Asteraceae) was carried out in laboratory. Distilled water and methanol extracts of the leaves of plant was prepared. Five phytopathogenic fungi: Alternaria brassicae, Botrytis cinerea, Fusarium oxysporum, Phytophthora capsici and Sclerotium rolfsii were tested at different concentrations (50 mg/ml, 100 mg/ml, 150 mg/ml, 200 mg/ml, 250 mg/ml) of plant extracts. The phytochemical screening depicted the presence of terpenoids, saponins, flavonoids, tannins and alkaloids. The antifungal activity of extracts was determined by poisoned food technique; and linear mycelium growth reduction (LMGR) percentage was calculated. Methanol crude leaf extract had higher antifungal potential than the distilled water extract.','Parthenium hysterophorus, antifungal activity, poisoned food technique and linear mycelium growth reduction ','Leaves of Parthenium hysterophrous was rich source of important antifungal chemicals such as tannins, saponins, terpenoids, flavonoids, alkaloids, cardiac glycosides and steroids which has enabled them to show varying degree antifungal properties. Both distilled water and methanol crude leaf extracts exhibit antifungal action. However, methanol crude leaf extract had higher antifungal potential than the distilled water extract.','-','A. Devkota and A. Sahu (2017). Assessment of Phytochemical screening and Antifungal Activity of Parthenium hysterophrous L. Biological Forum â€“ An International Journal 9(1): 31-36'),(464,'21','Using Adaptive Neuro Fuzzy Inference System (ANFIS) for Prediction of Soil Fertility for Wheat Cultivation','Marzieh Mokarram*, Mohammad Jaafar Mokarram** and Behrouz Safarianejadian***','7 BFIJ MARZIEH MOKARRAM.pdf','',1,'In this study, an attempt has been made to Adaptive neuro fuzzy inference system (ANFIS) to predict soil fertility using soil phosphorus (P), copper (Cu), manganese (Mn), iron (Fe), zinc (Zn), organic matter (OC) and soil potassium (K) in Fars province, southwest Iran. The paper developed an ANFIS model using Sugeno method. Methodology consist of selection of dependent and independent soil parameter, fuzzification, fuzzy inference rule, membership function and defuzzification process. The results show that the model with error of 1.6543e0.5 and -1.5941e0.5 for train and checked respectively had most accuracy for prediction of fertility. So ANFIS is an efficient method to prediction of soil fertility. ','Soil fertility, Adaptive neuro fuzzy inference system and Sugeno method.','In paper, an attempt is made to prediction of soil fertility in Fars province, Iran based on ANFIS. To make the model data driven, experimental data is used. The model is developed using MATLAB. The paper developed a fuzzy logic model using Sugeno fuzzy inference system. In the model for prediction of soil fertility used to predict soil fertility using Zn, P, OC, Mn, K, Fe and Cu as inputs data. The rules were determined using ANFIS model in Matlab software automatically. The ANFIS model according train data (soil fertility) and considering the lowest error define rules. Also the results show that the model with error of 1.6543e0.5 and -1.5941e0.5 for train and checked respectively had most accuracy for prediction of fertility. So using Gaussian membership function if ANFIS model can prediction soil fertility. The advantage of this model than the other models is definition membership function according train data (soil fertility) automatically. In fact definition membership function us','-','Marzieh Mokarram*, Mohammad Jaafar Mokarram** and Behrouz Safarianejadian (2017). Using Adaptive Neuro Fuzzy Inference System (ANFIS) for Prediction of Soil Fertility for Wheat Cultivation , Biological Forum â€“ An International Journal 9(1): 37-44.'),(465,'22','Review on Improvement of Engineering Properties of soil Using Waste Plastic Bottles Strips (Polyethylene Terephthalate)','Jaswinder Singh* , Vinod Kumar Sonthwal** and Jasvir S Rattan***','1 IJET JASWINDER SINGH 839.pdf','',1,'','','','',''),(466,'23','A Review of ALU Design Based on Fixed and Floating Point','Khushboo Dandotiya* and Shraddha Shrivastava**','I IJEECE-1032-KHUSHBOO DANDOTIYA.pdf','',1,'','','','',''),(467,'9','Promoting and Inhibiting Effects of Bryophyte Extracts on the Seed Germination and Seedling Growth of Vigna radiata and Cicer arietinum','Gaurav Bhadauriya* , Shivom Singh* and Kajal Srivastava**','BFIJ 61 SHIVOM SINGH AND KHURSHEED 1265.pdf','',1,'The present study deals with the influence of bryophyte extract on seed germination and seedling growth of economically important crops Vigna radiata (Mung bean) and Cicer arietinum (Bengal gram). Seed germination tests were performed with moss (Dicranum scoparium) and liwerwort (Plagiochasma appendiculatum). Bryophytes species (moss and liverwort) were collected from the northern region of Uttarakhand (Almora and Ranikhet) of India. During study, effect of aqueous and methanolic extract of moss and liverwort on seed germination and seedling growth was recorded. The inhibition in germination rate was observed at high concentration of methanol and aqueous extract in the both seeds of Mung bean and Bengal gram, however, highly diluted aqueous extracts showed an increase in the germination and promoted the growth in both crop species. Presented data evaluate that the complete inhibition of germination with methanol extract of moss and liverwort was observed on the both crops.','Bryophytes extract, seed germination, seedling growth, inhibition and growth promotion','The present study deals with the influence of bryophyte extract on seed germination and seedling growth of economically important crops Vigna radiata (Mung bean) and Cicer arietinum (Bengal gram). Seed germination tests were performed with moss (Dicranum scoparium) and liwerwort (Plagiochasma appendiculatum). Bryophytes species (moss and liverwort) were collected from the northern region of Uttarakhand (Almora and Ranikhet) of India. During study, effect of aqueous and methanolic extract of moss and liverwort on seed germination and seedling growth was recorded. The inhibition in germination rate was observed at high concentration of methanol and aqueous extract in the both seeds of Mung bean and Bengal gram, however, highly diluted aqueous extracts showed an increase in the germination and promoted the growth in both crop species. Presented data evaluate that the complete inhibition of germination with methanol extract of moss and liverwort was observed on the both crops.','-','Gaurav Bhadauriya , Shivom Singh and Kajal Srivastava (2016). Promoting and Inhibiting Effects of Bryophyte Extracts on the Seed Germination and Seedling Growth of Vigna radiata and Cicer arietinum , Biological Forum â€“ An International Journal 8(2): 41'),(468,'9','Ethno-medicinal uses of some plants of Potterâ€™s Hill in Shimla (Himachal Pradesh, India)','Dr. Pushpa Thakur and Sarika','BFIJ 62 DR PUSHPA THAKUR 1214.pdf','',1,'The present study was undertaken to provide information about the medicinally important floral diversity of Potterâ€™s Hill in District Shimla Himachal Pradesh. Ethno-medicinal data on 25 plant species belonging to 20 families were reported after undertaking survey. It was found that dominated medicinal plants of this region are main source of primary health care. These plants are used in the forms of decoction, juice, powder, paste and whole plant extract. The popular use of herbal remedies among the rural people of Himachal Pradesh reflects the restoration of interest in the traditional medicine.','Medicinal plants, Potterâ€™s Hill, Shimla.','The present study shows that Potters Hill is rich with valuable medicinal flora and people are enriched with folk traditional knowledge about these herbs and trees. It can be concluded from the study that documentation of this knowledge is novel information from the area of Potters Hill, Himachal Pradesh, The plant biodiversity, traditional knowledge and cultural practices of the rural people are facing threat due to rapid urbanization and uncontrolled grazing in these study areas. Our attempts for this research work will not only provide recognition to this treasure, but also help in the conservation of these medicinal plants for further researchers worldwide. Ethno-botanical studies have a major role to play in modern drug development programmes from plant resources. The information on therapeutic uses of plants may provide a great potential for discovering new drugs and promoting awareness among the people to use them as remedy in health care system with supreme accuracy and knowled','-','Dr. Pushpa Thakur and Sarika (2016). Ethno-medicinal uses of some plants of Potterâ€™s Hill in Shimla (Himachal Pradesh, India) , Biological Forum â€“ An International Journal 8(2): 417-422.'),(469,'21','Marketing Restraints in small Ruminant\'s Production with Special\r\nReference to their Impact on Livestock Business Development of\r\nBalochistan, Pakistan','Muhammad Shafiq*, Tayyaba Safdar**, Asma Azhar**, Zubia Masood*** and Zahoor Ahmed Bahzai****','8 BFIJ ZUBIA MASOOD 1270.pdf','',1,'The basic objective of the present study was to investigate the constraints of livestock marketing that can directly influence on the livestock business development as well as in the economy of Province Balochistan, Pakistan. In this study, convenience sampling technique was used to collect the data through five scale Linker self-constructed questionnaires during the period from January 2015 to December 2015. The obtained results were indicating that marketing constraints in small ruminants\' production is producing difficulties, particularly to the small ruminants holders (SRH) of Balochistan. Though, large area of Balochistan is included in arid or semi-arid zones, so a bulk of the local population is betrothed in livestock rearing activities, however, because of their primitive marketing practices, still they do not get their outstanding yields. Hence, present study is focusing on computing the difficulties in marketing of small ruminants, which ultimately obstructing the development','marketing of small ruminants, restraints, livestock holders, Balochistan.','The primary purpose of this study was to develop and to test a model that examines the relationship of small ruminants\' marketing constraint to profit of small ruminants. The study found out that a number of constraints are positively influencing the progress and development by increasing the difficulties to SRH. The results of this study provide considerable insight into the in order to determine the small ruminants\' significant to the economy of Balochistan. Hence, the test of model indicates that the, marketing and constraints do not let the livestock sector to flourish. The study also indicates empirical sign of the effect of livelihood of small ruminants\' holders is interrupted by the various marketing constraints in the province. This means the quality of livestock activities can be flourish by eliminating the inaccessibility to market, middlemen role, price constraints, market competition and difficulties to small ruminants\' holders. Thus, the study provides guidelines to suppo','-','Muhammad Shafiq*, Tayyaba Safdar**, Asma Azhar, Zubia Masood and Zahoor Ahmed Bahzai (2017). Marketing Restraints in small Ruminant\'s Production with Special\r\nReference to their Impact on Livestock Business Development of\r\nBalochistan, Pakistan , Biolog'),(470,'24','Hygrophila pogonocalyx (Acanthaceae), new distributional record of a threatened taxa from India: Its ecology and proposal for conservation','Dipan Sarma, Amal Debnath, Chiranjit Paul and Bimal Debnath*','1_JNBR_6(1)_2017.pdf','',1,'','','','',''),(471,'24','Genetic diversity among Bees as detected by Random Amplified Polymorphic DNA Markers','Isha Slathia, N. K. Tripathi and V. K. Gupta','2_JNBR_6(1)_2017.pdf','',1,'','','','',''),(472,'24','Xylanases current and future perspectives: a review','Pawan Kumar Sharma','3_JNBR_6(1)_2017.pdf','',1,'','','','',''),(473,'24','Some Records of Lichens new to India','Indu Bhushan Prasher* and Sushma','4_JNBR_6(1)_2017.pdf','',1,'','','','',''),(474,'24','Distribution of rust fungi (Puccinia and Phragmidium) and host plants in Pakistan','Barkat Ali*, Younas Sohail and Abdul Samad Mumtaz*','5_JNBR_6(1)_2017.pdf','',1,'','','','',''),(475,'25','Passive Techniques for Achieving Thermal Comfort in the Vernacular\r\nDwellings of Bikaner','Tanaya Verma*, Tejwant Singh Brar** and Mohammad Arif Kamal***','1- 37.pdf','',1,'','','','',''),(476,'25','Making Cities Resilientâ€- Jalandhar is Getting Ready','Tajinder Singh, Rajiv Soni and Manpreet Singh Saini','2- 38.Research paper (FINAL).pdf','',1,'','','','',''),(477,'25','Green Rating Systems in India â€œA Landscape Perspective','Manju Yadav*, Krishna Kumar Dhote** and Saurabh Popli*','3- 39.pdf','',1,'','','','',''),(478,'25','Futuristic and Intelligent Housing in Developing Countries','Ramandeep Sharma, Tanya Taneja and Er. Manpreet Singh Saini\r\nDAV University Jalandhar','4- 42.pdf','',1,'','','','',''),(479,'25','Finding Beauty - Clean & Beautiful City Initiative for Jalandhar','Sukhjinder Singh, Dharminder Singh and Manpreet Singh Saini','5- 43F.pdf','',1,'','','','',''),(480,'25','Sustainable and Resilient Urban Development- Palampur perspective','Ankush Khanna, Chander Kant and Manpreet Singh Saini','6- 44.pdf','',1,'','','','',''),(481,'25','Housing for Weavers - Varanasi','Ar. Nupur','7- 54.pdf','',1,'','','','',''),(482,'25','Dimensional Stone Waste Characterization in Rajasthan and\r\nSuggesting their possible Remedies','Pradeep Kumar Gautam*, Dr. Pawan Kalla**, Dr. Ajay Singh Jethoo*** and S.C. Harshwardhan****','8- 61.pdf','',1,'','','','',''),(483,'25','Analysis of Service Quality Attributes for Jaipur Urban Bus\r\nTransportation','Pankaj Sharma*, J.K. Jain** and N. Srinivasa Reddy***','9- 62.pdf','',1,'','','','',''),(484,'25','Lake Water Pollution and TreatmentAntara Bhattacharya and Anugya Shandilya','Antara Bhattacharya and Anugya Shandilya','10- 82.pdf','',1,'','','','',''),(485,'25','Exploring Linkages between Regenerative Capacity of Coastal\r\nEcosystem and Sustainable Livelihood â€“ A New Insight','Poornima Jayaraj* and Rama Pandey** ','11- 83.pdf','',1,'','','','',''),(486,'25','Economic Sustainability and Resilience of MSME sectors: Case of\r\nTraditional Craft Industries of West Mithila Region, Bihar','Shivangi Singh Parmar*, Arkopal Goswami** and Joy Sen***','12- 98.pdf','',1,'','','','',''),(487,'25','Planning & Disaster Resilient Development: A Case Study of the Hilly\r\nRegions in Uttarakhand','Kanupriya Deol','13- 99.pdf','',1,'','','','',''),(488,'25','Assessment of Service Quality Related to Accessibility and\r\nInfrastructural Amenities at Kharagpur Railway Station','Navneet Singh*, Sunny Bansal** and Arkopal Kishore Goswami***','14- 100.pdf','',1,'','','','',''),(489,'25','Context in Architecture','Nikhil Sanghvi','15- 122. Nikhil sanghavi_Context in architecture Draft.pdf','',1,'','','','',''),(490,'25','Urban Heat Island Footprint Mapping of Delhi Using Remote Sensing','Sumit Kumar* and Manoj Panwar**','16- 135.pdf','',1,'','','','',''),(491,'25','Sustainable Urbanisation: An integrated approach towards future\r\nIndia','Mekhala Saha* and Manjeet Singh**','17- 136.pdf','',1,'','','','',''),(492,'25','Accident Analysis of Sonipat to Kharkhoda Road','Navdeep Mor','18- 141.pdf','',1,'','','','',''),(493,'25','Sewage Disposal System for Trains: Current System and Future\r\nProspects','Devwrat Vegad and Sunny Paruthi','19- 147.pdf','',1,'','','','',''),(494,'25','A Study of Removal of Ethylbenzene and Xylene Using Biofilter','Ashish Kumar Yadav and S.K. Patidar','20- 148.pdf','',1,'','','','',''),(495,'25','Urbanization, Population and Environment in India:\r\nA Review','Satya Prakash Panwar, Mohit Sharma and Navin Solanki','21- 160.pdf','',1,'','','','',''),(496,'25','Role of Sustainable Urban Transportation System in Environmental\r\nSustainability: A Review','Satya Prakash Panwar, Bhawna Madan and Sakshi Nagpal','22- 161.pdf','',1,'','','','',''),(497,'25','Flood Resistant Buildings: a Requirement for Sustainable\r\nDevelopment in Flood Prone Areas','Mohammad Kamil Khan* and Subhan Ahmad**','23- 181.pdf','',1,'','','','',''),(498,'25','Tragedy of the Commons â€“ Bhoj Wetland','Apoorva Singh and Fiza Naseer','24- 5.pdf','',1,'','','','',''),(499,'25','The Effect of Urbanization on Environment in India','Sandeep Kaur','25- 10.pdf','',1,'','','','',''),(500,'25','Impact of Urbanization on Environment','Mohit Singh Rai','26- 56.pdf','',1,'','','','',''),(501,'25','Demand for Rental Housing: A Study of Slums in Delhi','Ruchita Gupta* and Manish Gupta**','27- 57.pdf','',1,'','','','',''),(502,'25','Impact of urbanisation on the Plant Pollinator relationship','Pollobi Duara','28- 58.pdf','',1,'','','','',''),(503,'25','Climate Change: Impacts and Adaptability','Ar. Prajakta Rahate','29- 131.pdf','',1,'','','','',''),(504,'25','Promoting Sustainable Urban Development through Innovative\r\nInfrastructure Planning and Development','Ar. Jit Kumar Gupta* and Dr Rashmi Ashtt**','30- 142. full paper mnit jaipur.J.K.pdf','',1,'','','','',''),(505,'25','The Political Economy of Urban Environmental Management in\r\nKashmir: Reflections and Agenda for Change','Mushtaq Pahalgami and Simin Akhter Naqvi','31- 143.pdf','',1,'','','','',''),(506,'25','Built Environment Issues in India and an Approach to Mitigation','Atul Kumar* and Dhanu Singh**','32- 146.pdf','',1,'','','','',''),(507,'25','A Study of Removal of Ethylbenzene and Xylene Using Biofilter','Ashish Kumar Yadav* and S.K. Patidar**','33- 148.pdf','',1,'','','','',''),(508,'25','Methodology Used In Low Cost Housing','H.R. Tewani','34- 149.pdf','',1,'','','','',''),(509,'25','An Integrated Sustainable Waste Management System for\r\nUrban Communities','Devwrat Vegad and Sunny Paruthi','35- 152.pdf','',1,'','','','',''),(510,'25','Case Study Based Comparison of Popular Wastewater Treatment\r\nTechnologies in Present Scenario','Manju Minhas and Shefali Bakshi','36- 154.pdf','',1,'','','','',''),(511,'25','Assessment of Air Pollution Tolerance Index of Selected Plants\r\nUnveil To Traffic Roads of Noida, Uttar Pradesh','Jyoti Kumari and Dr. Surinder Deswal','37- 157.pdf','',1,'','','','',''),(512,'25','Studying the Impact of Parentâ€™s Socio-Economic Factors and Built\r\nEnvironment on Mode Choice of School Going Children','Kuldeep Kavta* and Dr. Bhargav Adhvaryu**','38- 158.pdf','',1,'','','','',''),(513,'25','Analysis Of Air Pollution In Indian Cities - A Literature Review','Naveen Kishore* and Surinder Deswal**','39- 178.pdf','',1,'','','','',''),(514,'25','River Water Quality Modelling For the Assessment of the Impact of\r\nUrbanization','Kosha Amish Shah and Geeta S. Joshi','40- 145.pdf','',1,'','','','',''),(515,'25','Thinking Spatially: Discourse on Spatiality of Yamuna Riverfront','Owais Asif Khan and Ar. Anoop Kumar Sharma','41- 1.pdf','',1,'','','','',''),(516,'25','Role of Government for Housing The Urban Poor in Amritsar: Pitfalls\r\nand Consequences','Sandeep Kumar','42- 17.pdf','',1,'','','','',''),(517,'25','Jammu City: Still a Step Behind Sustainability','Parth Sachdeva*, Venu Madhav** and Manpreet Singh Saini***','43- 32.pdf','',1,'','','','',''),(518,'25','Bio-inspired Built Environments for Climate Change: Developing\r\nStrategies for Adaptation and Mitigation','Pratheek Sudhakaran','44- 63.pdf','',1,'','','','',''),(519,'25','Transformation in Open Spaces: Past, Present and Future.','Nishat Khan','45- 119_.pdf','',1,'','','','',''),(520,'25','Impact of Private Sector Urban Development Projects on Different\r\nSocioeconomic Groups in Haryana, India','Lalit Kumar* and Prof. (Dr.) Ashok Kumar**','46- 120_.pdf','',1,'','','','',''),(521,'25','Urban Farming - A Sustainable Model for Indian Cities','Hari Prasad Agarwal and Radha Sinha','48- 151.pdf','',1,'','','','',''),(522,'25','Development and Environment Interactions â€“ Need for Climate\r\nResponsive Campuses: Study and Proposals','Anuksha Amla* and Ar. Anoop Kumar Sharma**','49- 159 Development and Environment Interactions.pdf','',1,'','','','',''),(523,'25','Assessing the Impact of a few Anthropogenic Activities on Water\r\nQuality of River Ganga','Anushka and Dr. Surinder Deswal','50- 162 Assessing the impact of a few anthropogenic activities on water quality of river ganga.pdf','',1,'','','','',''),(524,'25','Indian Culture and Lifestyle for Environment Conservation:\r\na Path Towards Sustainable Development','Mallika Dev','51- 163 International Journal on Emerging Technologies 7.pdf','',1,'','','','',''),(525,'25','Khsustainable Development and Waste Management In Megacities','Nikhlesh Nautiyal and Dr. Surinder Deswal','52- 177. mega city.pdf','',1,'','','','',''),(526,'25','Assessment and Characterization of Meteorological Drought using\r\nStandardized Precipitation Index in the Upper Luni River Basin,\r\nRajasthan','Himani Chouhan*, Vaibhav Garg** , Bhaskar R. Nikam*** , Arpit Chouksey** and S.P. Agarwal ****','53- 14.pdf','',1,'','','','',''),(527,'25','Clusterization as a Tool for Sustainable Development','Priyanka Singh* and R. Rajeev**','54- 18.pdf','',1,'','','','',''),(528,'25','Slum Up-gradation Initiatives â€“ Related Policies, Issues, Unintended\r\nOutcomes in India','Nirmala Johar','55- 20.pdf','',1,'','','','',''),(529,'25','Need For Development of Coastal Architecture','Angelika Ajrawat* and Ar. Anoop Kumar Sharma**','56- 69. MNIT conference,2017.pdf','',1,'','','','',''),(530,'25','Risk Assessment for Amber Fort Area, Jaipur','Garima Charan','57- 73.NCUEMI_Garima Charan.pdf','',1,'','','','',''),(531,'25','Urban Cannibalism: A Self-Destructive Decay â€“ The Duality of\r\nEcological Dismay; Gurgaon','Animesh Dev*','58- 78. URBAN CANNIBALIS Gurgaon submitted by Animeah Dev 22 12 16 EDIT.pdf','',1,'','','','',''),(532,'25','Safe Public Places: Rethinking Design for Women Safety','Ar. Seemantini Soraganvi','59- 109.pdf','',1,'','','','',''),(533,'25','Mixed-Use Eco-Skyscrapers as a Solution for Urban Environmental\r\nManagement','Apurv Prakash','60- 117. Mixed-Use Eco-Skyscrapers as a Solution for Urban Environmental Management.pdf','',1,'','','','',''),(534,'25','Density and Neighbourhood Environmental Quality â€“ A Comparative\r\nStudy in the context of Indian Cities','Ar. Swati Dutta*, Dr. Suchandra Bardhan ** and Dr. Sanjukkta Bhaduri***','61- 123__.pdf','',1,'','','','',''),(535,'25','Role of Waste Management at Landfills in Sustainable Waste\r\nManagement','Shobhit Maheshwari* and Dr. Surinder Deswal**','62- 164.pdf','',1,'','','','',''),(536,'25','Urbanisation and Air Quality: A Comparative Analysis of Delhi and\r\nKolkata','Pooja Sharma','63- 167.pdf','',1,'','','','',''),(537,'25','The Water Sustainability Index (WSIOC) for Office Complexes.\r\nPart 1: A Preliminary Framework','Gaurav Chandra, Dr. N. R. Mandal*, Dr. Manjari Chakraborty**, Dr. A. K. Sinha*** and Dr. Tarush Chandra****','64- 169.pdf','',1,'','','','',''),(538,'25','Realties and Myths of Public Spaces: Conflict and Participation in\r\nKolkata','Deepashree Choudhury','65- 179.pdf','',1,'','','','',''),(539,'25','Effect of Air Pollution on Environment: A Review','Amrendra Kumar Singh* and Surinder Deswal**','66- 180. amrendra kumar singh paper_edited on 23.01.pdf','',1,'','','','',''),(540,'25','Refurbishment of Signage and Way finding Systems: Case Study\r\nof Urban Spaces of Jaipur','Ar. Sneh Singh* and Siddhant Walia*','67- 182.pdf','',1,'','','','',''),(541,'25','Input Output Mass Balance of Trace Elemental Species at a Typical\r\nIndian Coal Fired Power Plant','Nitin Goyal*, Anil Dutt Vyas** and Satendra Kumar Jain**','68- 184.pdf','',1,'','','','',''),(542,'25','Urban development impacts on water bodies: A Review in India','Sauni Wan Lenar Laloo* and Alok Ranjan**','69- 185.pdf','',1,'','','','',''),(543,'25','Impact of Urbanization on Environment with reference to Climate\r\nChange','Shreya Giri* and Professor Alok Ranjan*','70- 186.pdf','',1,'','','','',''),(544,'25','Impact of Urbanisation: A Comparative Overview of Four Mega\r\nCities in India','Pooja Sharma* and Sumit Sharma**','71- 168.pdf','',1,'','','','',''),(545,'25','Sustainable Urban Mobility: Challenges, Planning and Initiatives in\r\nJalandhar','Sahil*, Sahil Dugg** and Manpreet Singh Saini***','72- 33.pdf','',1,'','','','',''),(546,'25','Construction Management Issues for Architects in Indian\r\nConstruction Industry','Sharmin Khan','73- 34.pdf','',1,'','','','',''),(547,'25','Disasters in India: An Overview','Abdullah Tabish Ahmed* and Deepti Sagar**','74- 48.pdf','',1,'','','','',''),(548,'25','Case Studies of Citizen Experiment with Unconventional Construction\r\nTechnique','Ar. Mitesh Jatolia* and Ar. Preethi Agarwal**','75- 64.pdf','',1,'','','','',''),(549,'25','Representation of Sustainable Development and Its Relation with\r\nEnvironment in the Selected Short Fiction of Ruskin Bond','Rohini','76- 102.pdf','',1,'','','','',''),(550,'25','Transition from Vernacular to Modern Architecture: Gurgaon, India','Ms. Shreya Ojha* and Ar. Anoop Kumar Sharma**','77- 113.pdf','',1,'','','','',''),(551,'25','Planning of Eco Friendly Residential G+4 Building for Indore City','Anukrati Joshi*, Sapana Jaiswal*, Santosh Sharma*, Abhishek Sahu*, Ankur Jain* and Shiva Y Shankar**','78- 153.pdf','',1,'','','','',''),(552,'25','Environment Friendly Architecture-Study of Designs without\r\nDisturbing Nature','Ar. Bindu Agarwal','79- 166.pdf','',1,'','','','',''),(553,'25','Decision Tool to Define Choice of Microgeneration Retrofit for Indian\r\nHouseholds: A Conceptual Framework','Siddhartha Koduru* and Dr. Madhumita Roy**','81- 175.pdf','',1,'','','','',''),(554,'25','An Overview of Comparative Study of Various Methods used for\r\nControl of Emissions in Asphalt Mix Production','Divyanshu Sharma* and Dr. Kamal Deep Singh Grover**','82- 189.pdf','',1,'','','','',''),(555,'25','Adaptive Approach in Indian Context and Indoor Environment Design\r\nOptimization: A Test Methodology Schematic and Critical Overview','Akshay Kumar Bishnoi and Ankur Bishnoi','83- 165.pdf','',1,'','','','',''),(556,'25','Resilient Development for Human Settlements in Disaster Prone\r\nArea: A Case of Hill Area','Amrita Rastogi* and Bhagyashree U. Gapat**','84- 2.pdf','',1,'','','','',''),(557,'25','Smart Cities and the Challenges of Control of Water Resource for\r\nSustainable Future','Sandhya Sreekumar* and Rachna Gangwar**','85- 3. smart cities and challenges..pdf','',1,'','','','',''),(558,'25','Accessing the Needs and Planning Provisions for Industrial Areas in\r\nIndia: Jaipur','Ankit Kashmiri Gupta, Dr. Tarush Chandra and Dr. Nand Kumar','86- 188.pdf','',1,'','','','',''),(559,'25','Khsustainable Development and Waste Management In Megacities','Nikhlesh Nautiyal and Dr. Surinder Deswal','87- 177. mega city.pdf','',1,'','','','',''),(560,'25','Land Use Suitability Analysis for Zone K-1 (Urban Extension), New\r\nDelhi','Sunil Sharma*, Saikat Kumar Paul**, Nand Kumar* and M. F. Jawaid*','88- 93.pdf','',1,'','','','',''),(561,'25','Allied Strategies to Focus on Sustainable Development in Fringe\r\nAreas of Chennai','Amit Bhattacharya*, Nilima M. Dhamal**, Gaurab Das Mahapatra***','89- 21.pdf','',1,'','','','',''),(562,'25','A Smart Concept for Waste Management in Jalandhar City','Hanish Katnoria*, Manpreet Singh Saini** and Ravi Inder Singh Cheema***','90- 4.pdf','',1,'','','','',''),(563,'25','Strategies for wetland Conservation: Asset to Natural Infrastructure â€“\r\nCase of Surinsar-Mansar wetland in Jammu region of Jammu and\r\nKashmir','Ar. Aditi Sharma* and Dr. Sandeep Dua**','91- 15.pdf','',1,'','','','',''),(564,'25','Restructuring Road Governance â€“ A case of Jaipur, Rajasthan','Ravi Sharma* and Manisha Sharma**','92- 77.pdf','',1,'','','','',''),(565,'25','Location/allocation of waste bins using GIS in Kolkata Municipal\r\nCorporation area ','Koushik Paul*, Amit Dutta**, A. P. Krishna***','93- 59.pdf','',1,'','','','',''),(566,'25','Inclusive Planning: Smart Solution for City Design','Ar. Preeti Jaiswal* and En. Suresh Hatkar**','94- 22.pdf','',1,'','','','',''),(567,'25','Role of â€˜Safeâ€™ in Smart City â€“ Jalandharâ€™s Perspective','Raghav Ranjan*, Nishant* and Er. Manpreet Singh Saini**','95- 28.pdf','',1,'','','','',''),(568,'25','The Changing Analogy In Indian Context : From Habitable to\r\nAdaptable Place','Mrunali Balki','96- 30.pdf','',1,'','','','',''),(569,'25','Natural Resource Assessment for a Hill Ecosystem in a Semi-Arid\r\nRegion: A Case study of Mount Abu town.','Anita Tikoo Matange* and Komal Agarwal**','97- 70.pdf','',1,'','','','',''),(570,'25','Smart Planning for Urban Resilience','Dr. Prabh Bedi*','98- 86.pdf','',1,'','','','',''),(571,'25','Green Buildings, Energy Conservation and Sustainability- A Study of\r\nJaipur City','Dr. Oum Kumari R','99- 132.pdf','',1,'','','','',''),(572,'25','Critical Review of the Climate Change Impact on Urban Areas by\r\nAssessment of Heat Island effect. Case of Pune, India','Omkar Parishwad and Vinita Shinkar','100- 172.pdf','',1,'','','','',''),(573,'23','Issues, Challenges and Solution for Security in Wireless Sensor Networks: A Review','Prachi Pathak* and Mohd. Amjad Quaz**','2 IJEECE- PRACHI PATHAK.pdf','',1,'','','','',''),(574,'23','A Study: Analysis of various Digital Watermarking Techniques','Jyoti Kumari* and Pankaj Vyas**','3 IJEECE-1033- JYOTI KUMARI 1033.pdf','',1,'','','','',''),(575,'23','Image fusion using DTCWT with High Boost Filtering','Ashok Kumar Meena* and Kalpana Rai**','4 IJEECE-1034-ASHOK KUMAR MEENA.pdf','',1,'','','','',''),(576,'25','A Contrast to The Taj Mahal: Slums of Tajganj, Agra','Vaibhav Kulshresth* and Abhas Verma**','101- 139.pdf','',1,'','','','',''),(577,'25','Water scarcity: Not Enough to Drink','Sumit Kumar','102- 187.pdf','',1,'','','','',''),(578,'25','Architectural Perception for Redevelopment of Railway Termini','Ar. Shweta Choudhary* and Dr. Satish Pipralia**','103- 190.pdf','',1,'','','','',''),(579,'25','Quality of Life in Informal Settlement: Jaipur','Kristi Verma','104- 191.pdf','',1,'','','','',''),(580,'25','Optimizing Building Performance for Energy Efficiency in Cooling\r\nBuildings Sustainably','Ar. Neeti Garg*, Dr. Ashwani Kumar**, Dr. Satish Piprralia*** and Dr. Parveen Kumar****','105- 195. optimizing building performance for energy efficiency in cooling buildings.pdf105- 195 optimizing building performance for energy efficiency in cooling buildings.pdf','',1,'','','','',''),(581,'25','Exploring the Cityâ€™s Natural Systems to Create Walkable and Cyclable\r\nNetworks: Case of Delhi','Vanita Verma* and Sumedha Jain**','106- 35. EXPLORING THE CITYâ€™S NATURAL SYSTEMS TO CREATE WALKABLE AND CYCLABLE NETWORKS_CASE OF DELHI_Vanita Verma and Sumedha Jain.pdf','',1,'','','','',''),(582,'25','Dynamic Growth of Bhopal City Core: A Conceptual and Legal Approach','Aditi Bhattacharya and Shubhangi Rathor','107- 18. Full Length Paper Submission_NCUEMI_2017_Jaipur.pdf','',1,'','','','',''),(583,'25','Designing with Place: Contextual Anchoring of a Contemporary City\r\nFabric, the Flux of Urban Management on the City of Delhi','Sagarika Sharma','108- 192.pdf','',1,'','','','',''),(584,'25','Settling the Curve: Planning and Design strategies in concurrence\r\nwith Environmental sensibility on Hilly sites from Antiquity to the\r\nMiddle Ages','Kulwant Malhotra','109- 193.pdf','',1,'','','','',''),(585,'25','Biophilia and Built Environment: An Implication for Healthcare\r\nFacilities','Zainab Abbas* and Ar. M. F. Jawaid**','110- 194.pdf','',1,'','','','',''),(586,'25','Mitigating Water Crisis by Prioritization Sub -Watershed Areas for\r\nResource Management- A Case Study of Latur, India','Pankaj Shukla and Omkar Parishwad','111- 202.pdf','',1,'','','','',''),(587,'25','Real estate for Urban Management (Industrial Estates in National Capital Territory, Delhi)','Ar. Avitesh','112- 144.pdf','',1,'','','','',''),(588,'25','A Review on Present Practices, Issues and Challenges of Municipal\r\nSolid Waste Management in India','Satya Prakash Panwar, Sakshi Nagpal and Mohit Sharma','113- 183.pdf','',1,'','','','',''),(589,'25','Challenges and Priorities for Action in Urban Conservation','Chandni Chowdhary*, M. F. Jawaid* and Dr Satish Pipralia**','114- 196.pdf','',1,'','','','',''),(590,'25','Need for Sustainability and Green Practices in Large Developments','Palaash Roy*, Chandni Chowdhary*, Manish Sharma and Bibhu Kalyan Nayak*','115- 198.pdf','',1,'','','','',''),(591,'25','Developing an Approach and Structural Framework for Measuring\r\nEnvironmental Performance of Urban Settlements in India','Shuvojit Sarkar* and Gunjan Jain**','116- 199.pdf','',1,'','','','',''),(592,'25','Sustainable Public Transportation in Jaipur City','Sagar Chetiwal','117- 200.pdf','',1,'','','','',''),(593,'25','Decentralized Wastewater Management System with 3Râ€™s Theory','Kaushal Kumar Kumawat* and Dr. Pooja Nigam*','118- 201.pdf','',1,'','','','',''),(594,'25','Psychology of Architecture for The Mentally Ill','Smriti Dhingra','119- 203.pdf','',1,'','','','',''),(595,'25','Determinants of Character of Physio-Spatial Built Environment:\r\nContext of Hill Stations in India','Dr. Monalisa* and Dr. Pushplata**','120- 150.pdf','',1,'','','','',''),(596,'27','Flora of Aphyllophorales from Pune District- Part I','Ranadive KR1*, Jite PK2 , Ranade VD3 and Vaidya JG2','1 Ranadive JNBR 2 (3) 2013.pdf','',1,'','','','',''),(597,'27','A new record of leaf blight of ribben plant caused by Alternaria alternata in India','A Muthukumar and A Venkatesh','2 A MuthukumarJ NBR 2 (3) 2013.pdf','',1,'','','','',''),(598,'27','Two hyphomycetes new to India','I.B. Prasher and Gargi Singh','3 I.B. Prasher JNBR 2 (3) 2013.pdf','',1,'','','','',''),(599,'27','Sawantomycesâ€“ A New hyphomycetes genus from Western Ghats, India','Rashmi Dubey and Neelima A. Moonnambeth','4 Rashmi Dubey JNBR 2(3) 2013.pdf','',1,'','','','',''),(600,'27','First report of Cercospora apii s. lat. on Ceiba pentendra from northeastern\r\n Uttar Pradesh, India','Shambhu Kumar1* , Raghvendra Singh2 , P.P. Upadhyaya3 and D.C. Saini1','5 Shambhu Kumar JNBR 2(3) 2013.pdf','',1,'','','','',''),(601,'27','Taxonomic description of a new species of the genus Hydrocanthus (Coleoptera: Noteridae) from the Loktak Lake of Manipur, North East India','M. Bhubaneshwari Devi*, O. Sandhyarani Devi and Salam Dineshwar Singh','6 M. Bhubaneshwari Devi et al JNBR 2(3) 2013.pdf','',1,'','','','',''),(602,'27','First Report of Daldinia concentrica on Ficus benjamia L. from India','Ajay Kumar Gond1 , A.K. Pandey2 and Jamaluddin1','7 Ajay Kumar Gond et al JNBR 2(3) 2013.pdf','',1,'','','','',''),(603,'27','New records of genus Macrolepiota Sing. from India','Babita Kumari1 *, NS Atri1 and RC Upadhyay2','8 Babita Kumari et al JNBR 2 (3) 2013.pdf','',1,'','','','',''),(604,'27','New record of Torula herbarum (Pers.) Link. on Alternanthera sessilis L.','Ramanuj Patel1 , Ajay Kumar Gond1 , A.K. Pandey2 and Jamaluddin1','9 Ramanuj Patel et al JNBR 2 (3) 2013.pdf','',1,'','','','',''),(605,'27','A new variety of Rhodocybe popinalis (Entolomataceae, Agaricales) from coprophilous habitats of India','Amandeep Kaur1*, NS Atri2 and Munruchi Kaur2','10 Amandeep Kaur et al JNBR 2 (3) 2013.pdf','',1,'','','','',''),(606,'27','Some ethnomedicinal plant species of Satpuda forest region of east Khandesh Jalgaon district, Maharashtra.','R.M. Bagul','11 R.M. Bagul JNBR 2 (3)2013.pdf','',1,'','','','',''),(607,'27','New record of Memnoniella levispora Subram on Ficus carica L from India','Ajay Kumar Gond1 , Ramanuj Patel1 , Sanjay Patel1 , Jamaluddin1 and A.K. Pandy2','12 Ajay Kumar Gond et al JNBR 2 (3) 2013.pdf','',1,'','','','',''),(608,'27','A new species of Psathyrella (Psathyrellaceae, Agaricales) collected on dung from Punjab, India','Amandeep Kaur1*, NS Atri2 and Munruchi Kaur2','13 Amandeep et al JNBR 2 (3) 2013.pdf','',1,'','','','',''),(609,'27','Effect of various drugs on isolated scale Melanophores of fishes-A Review','Younis Ahmad Rather and Ajai K. Jain','14 Younis Ahmad Rather JNBR 2(3) 2013.pdf','',1,'','','','',''),(610,'24','Glycine latifolia- A New Host Record of Colletotrichum capsici','Dinesh Chand1, Jameel Akhtar2, Nilamani Dikshit1, Sunil Shriram Gomashe1 and Monika Malik2','6_JNBR_6(1)_2017.pdf','',1,'','','','',''),(611,'21','Recovery of Chromium from the waste water of Leather Industry','Moghira Badar* , M.K. Qamar* and M. Saleem Akhtar**','9 BFIJ-1275-MOGHIRA BADAR.pdf','',1,'The Recovery of chromium from tannery wastewater is attractive not only environmentally but also economically. Chromium III containing wastewaters were oxidized independently in alkaline conditions with three aqueous oxidants i.e. Magnesium Oxide, Sodium Hypochlorite and Calcium Hypochlorite to soluble chromate. Magnesium Oxide was potentially a suitable oxidant as it could oxidize a suspension of Cr(OH)3 to chromate to 98.5% (synthetic solution) and 88.3% (waste water). The percentage recoveries by the hypochlorites were lower than those by Magnesium Oxide. For all three oxidants complete recovery could not be achieved despite different experimental conditions (temperatures and oxidation time). The amount of chromate recovered was determined by spectrophotometry. The results clearly indicate that Magnesium Oxide is the most efficient among the three oxidants. ','-','The recovery using Magnesium Oxide (MgO) is economical, environment friendly and simple. The cost expended on the recovery of chromate from a 1L 100mg/L Cr III synthetic solution showed that the value for MgO is 19 times lower than that for NaOCl and 8 times lower than that for Ca(OCl)2. \r\n \r\n Badar, Qamar and Akhtar 55 In tanneries the concentration of chromium (tanning drum) after chrome tanning may range from 3000-6000 mg/L depending on the size of the drum. The drum normally used in small and medium size tanneries are of 8 feet diameter and 8 feet in length. Therefore, we can estimate the amount of water in a drum and in turn the amount oxidant plus alkali required for the recovery. \r\nThe recovered chromate can be reused in the in the tanning process in various proportions. Besides the recovered chromate can be converted to other useful products such as lead and barium chromates, dichromate, chromic oxide, chromium sulphate, etc. \r\n','-','Moghira Badar , M.K. Qamar and M. Saleem Akhtar (2017). Recovery of Chromium from the waste water of Leather Industry , Biological Forum â€“ An International Journal 9(1): 52-55.'),(612,'21','Postharvest Foliar Application of Gibberellic acid and Calcium chloride Improved vase life and Water Balance of cut rose Flower cv. Velvet','Rahim Naghshiband Hassani* and Fatemeh Alimirzaii**','10 BFIJ-1284-RAHIM NAGHSHIBAND HASSANI.pdf','',1,'The aim of this study was the better assessment of the relationship between postharvest foliar application of gibberellic acid and calcium chloride as anti-senescence agents on improving some qualitative and physiological attributes of cut rose flower cv. Velvet. Hence, an experiment was conducted as the foliar treatment of cut stems with gibberllic acid (GA3) at 0, 0.5, 1 and 1.5 mM, and calcium chloride (Ca) at 0, 5, 10 and 15 mM, as the cut stems were held in sucrose solution at 0 and, 2 % with 250 mg.L-1 of 8- HQS as an antimicrobial agent for all holding treatments. The study was performed as a factorial experiment based on a completely randomized design (CRD) with three replication for each combination treatment. Different concentrations of GA3 and CaCl2 increased the vase life of \"Velvet\" cut rose. The longest vase life (17.8 days) was observed in the combination of GA3 1mM with calcium chloride 15 mM concentrations. The effect of GA3 postharvest foliar application in increasin','Plant growth regulators, Calcium, Water uptake, Vase-life, Cut rose','In conclusion, the effect of GA3 and calcium in extending vase life of cut rose stem was synergistically, however the concentrations of 1.5 mM of GA3 with calcium chloride 15mM was the most effective postharvest foliar treatment in extending vase life by improving water balance of cut rose stem cv velvet.','-','Rahim Naghshiband Hassani* and Fatemeh Alimirzaii (2017). Postharvest Foliar Application of Gibberellic acid and Calcium chloride Improved vase life and Water Balance of cut rose Flower cv. Velvet , Biological Forum â€“ An International Journal 9(1): 56-'),(613,'21','Phyto-Diversity Studies in Kanasa Valley of Rakchham Chitkul Wild life Sanctuary of District Kinnaur, Himachal Pradesh','R. K. Verma','11 BFIJ-1279 RK VERMA.pdf','',1,'A study was carried out in Kanasa valley of Rakchham Chitkul wild life sanctuary of district Kinnaur, Himachal Pradesh to understand the phytodiversity along the altitudinal gradients with elevations varying in between 3000m to 3800m above msl during 2009-2010. Analysis of the data revealed that the composition of vegetation in Kanasa valley of the sanctuary showed the presence of total number of 130 plant species belonging to 43 families and 94 genera. The dominant families recorded were Rosaceae, Asteraceae, Ranunculaceae, Ploygonaceae and Lamiaceae. The maximum number of tree species recorded along the altitudinal gradient was 8 with the dominance of Pinus wallichiana at 3000m-3400m and Abies pindrow at 3400m-3800m respectively. The number of shrub species recorded were 17 and 16 in the elevation of 3000m-3400m and 3400-3800m having dominance of Rhododendron campanulatum at both the elevations. The number of herbs species recorded were 77 and 73 with the dominance of Nepeta laevigat','Altitude, dominance, diversity index, distribution, threatened plant.','A study was carried out in Kanasa valley of Rakchham Chitkul wild life sanctuary of district Kinnaur, Himachal Pradesh to understand the phytodiversity along the altitudinal gradients with elevations varying in between 3000m to 3800m above msl during 2009-2010. Analysis of the data revealed that the composition of vegetation in Kanasa valley of the sanctuary showed the presence of total number of 130 plant species belonging to 43 families and 94 genera. The dominant families recorded were Rosaceae, Asteraceae, Ranunculaceae, Ploygonaceae and Lamiaceae. The maximum number of tree species recorded along the altitudinal gradient was 8 with the dominance of Pinus wallichiana at 3000m-3400m and Abies pindrow at 3400m-3800m respectively. The number of shrub species recorded were 17 and 16 in the elevation of 3000m-3400m and 3400-3800m having dominance of Rhododendron campanulatum at both the elevations. The number of herbs species recorded were 77 and 73 with the dominance of Nepeta laevigat','-','R. K. Verma (2017). Phyto-Diversity Studies in Kanasa Valley of Rakchham Chitkul Wild life Sanctuary of District Kinnaur, Himachal Pradesh ,Biological Forum â€“ An International Journal9(1): 62-69.'),(614,'21','Characterization of Monascus purpureus isolated from Red Yeast Rice and its Evaluation for the Production of Cholesterol Lowering Lovastatin','Preeti Dogra and Dinesh Kumar','12 PREETI DOGRA 1289.pdf','',1,'Red yeast is a bio-pigment producing fungi which contain natural form of statins. It is a red mold species which grows on starch containing substrates. Red yeast rice is used as a coloring and flavoring agent beside production of various types of statins. In the present study red yeast was isolated from red rice and screened for the production of lovastatin using solid state fermentation in Rose Bengal Agar after 7 days growth at 35oC. Based on colony morphology, microscopic observations and genetic characterization it was identified as Monascus purpureus. Morphological characteristics of the red yeast showed the strain with cleistothecia having oval ascospores and aleiroconidia. ','Rose Bengal Agar, Red yeast rice, Monascus purpureus, SEM, Lovastatin production','All morphological, microscopic and genetic investigations in the present study concluded that the red yeast strain isolated from the fermented red yeast rice is Monascus purpureus. The solid state fermented red yeast rice prepared using this culture produced a significant amount of lovastatin in the preliminary stages (0.00922gm/100gm). Further detailed optimization of this culture is under process to improve the production of this important statin (lovastatin) used in lowering the cholesterol level in the human being through its consumption as fermented red yeast rice or as purified preparations. ','-','Preeti Dogra and Dinesh Kumar (2017). Characterization of Monascus purpureus isolated from Red Yeast Rice and its Evaluation for the Production of Cholesterol Lowering Lovastatin , Biological Forum â€“ An International Journal 9(1): 70-76. '),(615,'21','Effect of pH on the Recovery of Chromium with Removal of COD and Colour from Wastewater of Leather Industry','Moghira Badar* , M.K. Qamar** and M. Saleem Akhtar**','13 BFIJ MOGHIRA BADAR 1276.pdf','',1,'It is based on the experiments conducted for study of chromium removal and recovery from chrome tanning waste water of leather industry for chromium removal about 98.5% was achieved at pH 8.0 and at this pH reduction of COD is 61.5 % and percentage for removal of color from the wastewater of leather industry is 99.5% under applying the batch experimental condition.\r\nFor this purpose, it is carried out by using the most economical process as precipitation process. To use precipitating agent as calcium hydroxide for effective recovery of chromium is 98.5% at pH 8 for batch experiments. Results also show that the effective pH value is 8 for 61.5 % removal of COD and pH 8 is very optimize for 99 % removal of colour and gives with high settling rate for wastewater treatment from leather industry. \r\n','Tanning Waste water, Chromium, Recovery, Precipitation Agent, Optimum ','Precipitating agent as calcium hydroxide was used. The effects of pH on recovery and removal of Chromium were studied in batch experiments. Results show that the optimum pH is 8 for recovering the chromium from tanning wastewater by using the Ca (OH)2 with effective concentration as 3500 mg/l and also effect of optimum pH value is 8 upon removal of COD, colour and gives with high settling rate from tanning wastewater.','-','Moghira Badar* , M.K. Qamar** and M. Saleem Akhtar (2017). Effect of pH on the Recovery of Chromium with Removal of COD and Colour from Wastewater of Leather Industry , Biological Forum â€“ An International Journal 9(1): 77-79. '),(616,'23','A Study of various Techniques for Predicting student Performance under Educational Data Mining','Ankita Katare* and Shubha Dubey**','5-IJEECE-1036-ANKITA KATARE.pdf','',1,'','','','',''),(617,'23','Enhancing Image Security Using Compression and Spread-Spectrum Using Data Security','Varsha Yadav* and Prof. Gurmeet Singh**','6 IJEECE-1037-VARSHA YADAV.pdf','',0,'','','','',''),(618,'23','A literature review on feature Selection in Big Data','Konika Verma* and Pravin Malviya**','7-IJEECE-1035-KONIKA VERMA.pdf','',1,'','','','',''),(619,'20','Nutritional Evaluation and Antioxidant Activity of Zest obtained from Orange (Citrus sinensis) Peels','Naseem Zahra, Alim-un-Nisa, Imran Kalim, Muhammad Khalid Saeed, Ijaz Ahmad and Sajila Hina','2 NASEEM ZAHRA 1045.pdf','',1,'','','','',''),(620,'20','Assessment of Inorganic Impurities of Ground Water in South Western Districts of Punjab â€“ India','Sangeeta Sharma* , Manwinder Singh** and Umesh K Garg***','3 DR UMESH KUMAR GARG IJTAS 1047.pdf','',1,'','','','',''),(621,'20','Improvement of Engineering Properties of soil Using Waste Plastic Bottles Sttips (Polyethylene Tereohthalate)','Jaswinder Singh* and Vinod Kumar Sonthwal**','4 JASWINDER SINGH 1048.pdf','',1,'','','','',''),(622,'22','Microbial Degradation of Polythene using Actinomycetes Isolated from Maize Rhizosphere, Forest and Waste Damping sites within Egerton University, Kenya','Paul Njenga Waithaka* , Eliud Mugu Gathuru**, Benson Muriuki Githaiga**, Edwin Otieno Ochieng** and Linet Teresa Laban***','2 IJET PAUL NJENGA WAITHAKA 840.pdf','',1,'','','','',''),(623,'25','A Comparative Overview of the Existing Building Rating Systems','Dr. Tarush Chandra*, Bibhu Kalyan Nayak** and Arjun Gosain***','121- A comparative overview of the existing building rating systems- Bibhu Sir _1_.pdf','',1,'','','','',''),(624,'25','People, Spaces and Values: The Commonsâ€™ Perspective to the Urban Commons','Shruti Jain* and Richa Patidar**','122.pdf','',1,'','','','',''),(625,'25','To Find out the Feasibility of Ethylene-Tetra-Fluoro-Ethylene (ETFE) in Inflatable Pillow System (IPS) to be Used for Building Facades','Ar. Umesh R. Hirawe','123-52. FINAL PAPER- AR.pdf','',1,'','','','',''),(626,'23','Predictive Modelling for E-Commerce Data Classification Tasks: An\r\nAzure Machine Learning Approach','Kajal Govinda Fegade*, Dr. Varsha Namdeo** and Prof. Ravindra Gupta**','8-IJEECE-1040-KAJAL GOVINDA FEGADE.pdf','',1,'','','','',''),(627,'23','Improved Image Super Resolution using Sparse codes and Neural\r\nNetworks','Pankaj Raghuwanshi* and Amit Shrivastava**','9-IJEECE-1041-AMIT SHRIVASTAVA.pdf','',1,'','','','',''),(628,'23','An Approach Towards the High Efficient and low Propagation Delay in\r\nDigital Processor','Ashish Tiwari* and Sonu Lal **','10-IJEECE-1038-ASHISH TIWARI.pdf','',1,'','','','',''),(629,'24','Locating Fish Farms with Analytic Hierarchy Process and Determining their Optimal Arrangement in the Gorgan Gulf','Hassan Mohammad Khani','7_JNBR_6(1)_2017.pdf','',1,'','','','',''),(630,'22','Significance of SAP as ERP to Achieve the Overall Operational and Manufacturing Improvements (A Case Study of Auto Component Manufacturing Industry in Pune/ Aurangabad Area)','M. Chandrashekhar*, Dr. Sharad Mahajan** and Dr. Shivanand S. Hebbal**','3 IJET-842-M CHANDRASHEKHAR.pdf','',1,'','','','',''),(631,'23','A Review on Gray Hole Attack and its Prevention Mechanism','Ruchi Tiwari* and Jyoti Jain**','11-IJEECE-RUCHI TIWARI 1042.pdf','',1,'','','','',''),(632,'23','Survey of Various Planar Metal Plate Monopole Antenna for UWB Application','Mr. Raja Raghuwanshi* and Prof. Anil Khandelwal**','12-IJEECE-1046 ANIL KHANDELWAL.pdf','',1,'','','','',''),(633,'28','Role of Buddhism on Indian culture','Dr. Deo Kant Mishra','1 DR. DEO KANT MISHRA 1022.pdf','',1,'','','','',''),(634,'21','Heavy Metals Accumulation in Labeo rohita (Hamilton) of River Kabul, KPK, Pakistan','Khalid Usman* , Hameed Ur Rehman***, Sundus Adeel* , Nadar Ali Shah* , Akbar Shah****, KhalidPervaiz**, Nishat Saeed*** and Mussabeha***','14 BFIJ-1286-HAMEED UR REHMAN.pdf','',1,'The present study was conducted on different sites of River Kabul to determine the concentration of heavy metals on Rohu, Labeo rohita (Hamilton). The fish was collected from different sites of the River and heavy metals were detected by Atomic absorption Spectrophotometer. The highest concentrations of Zn (6.00 ppm) was found at Jehangera Upper site, Cu (3.05 ppm) at Dalda Oil Mill Nowshera site, Cr (1.05 ppm) at Jehangera Lower, Mn (2.00 ppm) at Jehangera Lower, Pb (0.02 ppm) at Dalda Oil Mill Nowshera site and Cd (3.0 ppm) at the Jehangera Upper site. The results revealed that Zn, Cr and Cd values were found above the permissible limits while Cu, Mn and Pb values were found within permissible limits shown in table 2. As a result of accumulation of heavy metals in fish bodies, various diseases occurred which ultimately declined their population. It is suggested that if the proper, timely remedial measures are not adopted, the situation will be aggravated and may cause the loss of pr','River Kabul, fish, rohu, heavy metals, pollution.','The present study was conducted on different sites of River Kabul to determine the concentration of heavy metals on Rohu, Labeo rohita (Hamilton). The fish was collected from different sites of the River and heavy metals were detected by Atomic absorption Spectrophotometer. The highest concentrations of Zn (6.00 ppm) was found at Jehangera Upper site, Cu (3.05 ppm) at Dalda Oil Mill Nowshera site, Cr (1.05 ppm) at Jehangera Lower, Mn (2.00 ppm) at Jehangera Lower, Pb (0.02 ppm) at Dalda Oil Mill Nowshera site and Cd (3.0 ppm) at the Jehangera Upper site. The results revealed that Zn, Cr and Cd values were found above the permissible limits while Cu, Mn and Pb values were found within permissible limits shown in table 2. As a result of accumulation of heavy metals in fish bodies, various diseases occurred which ultimately declined their population. It is suggested that if the proper, timely remedial measures are not adopted, the situation will be aggravated and may cause the loss of pr','-','Khalid Usman , Hameed Ur Rehman, Sundus Adeel , Nadar Ali Shah , Akbar Shah, KhalidPervaiz, Nishat Saeed and Mussabeha (2017). Heavy Metals Accumulation in Labeo rohita (Hamilton) of River Kabul, KPK, Pakistan , Biological Forum â€“ An International Jour'),(635,'21','Ecology and Diversity of Selected Aquatic and Semi-Aquatic Fauna of \r\nBaanganga Wetlands, Haridwar (Uttarakhand, India)','Archana Bahuguna* and Indu Sharma**','15 BFIJ-1274 INDU SHARMA.pdf','',1,'During the presents studies the diversity (fishes, amphibians and turtles) and ecology of Baanganga wetlands, Haridwar has been undertaken. The studies revealed the occurrence of 19 species of fishes, 03 amphibians and 05 species of freshwater turtles in various water bodies of Baanganga wetlands. The Physico-chemical properties of water showed that the habitat is deteriorating. The increased pH in some water bodies, low oxygen in water, high level of chloride ions were noted to be harmful for the habitat of aquatic and semi aquatic fauna. We suggest options for conservation of these wetlands.','Baanganga wetland, freshwater turtles, anurans, pisces, ecological study water analysis.','During the presents studies the diversity (fishes, amphibians and turtles) and ecology of Baanganga wetlands, Haridwar has been undertaken. The studies revealed the occurrence of 19 species of fishes, 03 amphibians and 05 species of freshwater turtles in various water bodies of Baanganga wetlands. The Physico-chemical properties of water showed that the habitat is deteriorating. The increased pH in some water bodies, low oxygen in water, high level of chloride ions were noted to be harmful for the habitat of aquatic and semi aquatic fauna. We suggest options for conservation of these wetlands.','-','Archana Bahuguna* and Indu Sharma (2017). Ecology and Diversity of Selected Aquatic and Semi-Aquatic Fauna of \r\nBaanganga Wetlands, Haridwar (Uttarakhand, India) , Biological Forum â€“ An International Journal 9(1): 87-94.'),(636,'21','An Investigation on the toxicity of some trace metals in river Kabul, Khyber Pakhtunkhwa Province of Pakistan','Khalid Usman, Hameed Ur Rehman, Sundus Adeel, Wahid Shah, Khalid Pervaiz, Zahirullah, Rafi Ullah and Muhammad Arsalan','16 BFIJ-HAMEED UR REHMAN.pdf','',1,'A study was conducted to analyze the concentration of trace metals in natural waters of river Kabul, Khyber Pakhtunkhwa Province, Pakistan. The metals i.e., Pb, Cd, Zn, Mn, Cu and Cr were determined by using atomic absorption spectrophotometer. The concentrations of the metals recorded were in the range as: Pb 0.06-4.41 ppm; Zn 4.11-7.11 ppm; Cd 0.42-1.46 ppm; Cu 1.07-3.86 ppm; Mn 0.06-2.11 ppm and Cr 0.05-2.11 ppm. All the metals analyzed were above the international permissible limits except manganese. The high level of metal contamination in the river Kabul suggested that the water conditions are not suitable for aquatic life and human consumption.','River Kabul, aquatic pollution, trace metals','The overall results of the present study concluded that various kinds of anthropogenic activities including industrial effluents, civic wastes and various kinds of pollutants along the river Kabul have affected the water quality very badly at study area. This is quite evident from the high levels of heavy metals found beyond the suitable ranges and international permissible limits that if proper, timely remedial measures are not adopted, the situation will be aggravated and may cause many human health hazards, deterioration of the natural ecosystem of the river, huge mortalities of fish, etc.','INTRODUCTION\r\nPollution is often dependent upon the load of wastes coming from civilization development. Much of the waste of urban development enters the water bodies through of water borne discharge wastes termed as waste water (Welch and Jacoby, 2004). The waste water discharges by industrial operations, in some cases, are among the worst sources of water pollution. The nature of pollutants associated with these waste waters differs greatly from one industry to another, in almost all cases. The resulting problems are associated with one or more combination of factors, including high BOD, high conc. of suspended solids and presence of toxic substances, etc. (Edwards, 1993). \r\nWater covers 71% of the earth\'s surface and make up 65% of the human body. Presently, 450 million populations in 29 different countries are facing the problem of water shortages (UNEP, 2002). Aquatic pollution has appeared as a serious problem in Pakistan due to the introduction of industrial effluents / domesti','Khalid Usman, Hameed Ur Rehman, Sundus Adeel, Wahid Shah, Khalid Pervaiz, Zahirullah, Rafi Ullah and Muhammad Arsalan (2017). An Investigation on the toxicity of some trace metals in river Kabul, Khyber Pakhtunkhwa Province of Pakistan.Biological Forum ï¿'),(637,'21','Effect of Tyrosine to Alanine Mutation on the Dimerization Process of\r\nÎ±-Synuclein: A Potential of Mean Force study','Airy Sanjeev and Venkata Satish Kumar Mattaparthi','17 BFIJ-1297-VENKATA SATISH KUMAR MATTAPARTHI.pdf','',1,'Aggregation of Î±-synuclein into well-ordered amyloid fibrils is associated with the pathogenesis of Parkinsonâ€™s disease. Several studies have suggested that Tyrosine residues of Î±-synuclein are involved in the intra and inter-molecular interactions during the fibrillation process. Here we demonstrate the role of tyrosine residues on the inter-molecular interactions during fibrillation process by analyzing the effect of tyrosine to alanine mutation on dimerization process of Î±-synuclein. We modeled the homo-dimer complex of the three tyrosine mutants: (Y39A; Y133A; Y (125,133,136)A) and Wild type Î±-synuclein and carried out potential of mean force study to analyze and compare free energy profile. We observed the minimum of separation of monomeric units to be smaller in Y39A and larger in Y133A dimer. Therefore we see Y39A mutation to accelerate the aggregation while Y133A slow down the aggregation. So the methods targeting tyrosine residue at position 133 may be helpful to reduce','Aggregation, Parkinsonâ€™s disease, mutants, free energy, fibrillation','The involvement of tyrosine residues of Î±-synuclein in the inter-molecular interactions during the dimerization process was studied. From our study, we can see among the tyrosine mutants, Y133A has the capacity to delay the fibrillation propensity of Î±-synuclein as it shows a substantially different conformation than the other tyrosine mutants. Among the three mutants (Y133A, Y39A, Y(125,133,136)A) and the WT, we found the inter-molecular interactions to be stronger in case of Y39A and weaker in Y133A.These findings suggest that the aggregation propensity of Î±-synuclein protein will be higher when it has Y39A mutation and lower when it has Y133A mutation. This is in agreement with the work that has been reported earlier (Ulrih et al., 2008). Therefore we see Y39A mutation to accelerate the Î±-synuclein aggregation while Y133A slow down the aggregation. So the methods targeting tyrosine residue at position 133 may be focused to reduce the aggregation propensity of Î±-synuclein.','Î±-Synuclein belongs to the class of Intrinsically Disordered Proteins (Fauvet et al., 2012; Iwai et al., 1995; Weinreb et al., 1996) consisting of 140 amino acids (Bisaglia et al., 2009). The aggregation of Î±-synuclein into well-ordered fibrils has been associated with the onset of Parkinsonâ€™s disease and various other neurodegenerative diseases (Uversky et al., 2009). However, the exact mechanism is still not known. Although the protein-lipid interaction involved in Î±-synuclein appears to be an important factor for the physio-pathological characteristics of the protein (Bendor et al., 2013; Pirc et al., 2011). The fibrillation of Î±-synuclein is a nucleation-dependent process which is associated with the transformation of unfolded monomer into oligomers and then to fibrils wherein the cross-Î²-sheet are formed (Breydo et al., 2012; Fink 2006; Serpell et al., 2000; Uversky et al., 2001). However the increased hydrophobic exposure is associated with the transformed monomeric and o','Airy Sanjeev and Venkata Satish Kumar Mattaparthi (2017). Effect of Tyrosine to Alanine Mutation on the Dimerization Process of\r\nÎ±-Synuclein: A Potential of Mean Force study. Biological Forum â€“ An International Journal 9(1): 100-107. '),(638,'24','First report of Lestes elatus (Hagen in Selys, 1862) from West Bengal, India','Saurav Dwari1, Subhadeep Chowdhury2 and Amal Kumar Mondal3','8_JNBR_6(1)_2017.pdf','',1,'','','','',''),(639,'24','Lactarius olivaceoumbrinus: a new addition to Indian mycobiota from Uttarakhand, India','Priyanka Uniyal1, Kanad Das2, R. P. Bhatt1, Upendra Singh1*, Tahir Mehmood1','9_JNBR_6(1)_2017.pdf','',1,'','','','',''),(640,'23','Optimal Signal Selection techniques for Damping Low Frequency\r\nOscillations in Multimachine Power System','Sanjeev Kumar Kushwaha* and Prabodh Khampariya**','13-SANJEEV KUMAR KUSHWAHA 1045.pdf','',1,'','','','',''),(641,'23','Study and Analysis of a Single Stage Transformer-less Inverter for\r\nGrid Connected PV Systems by using CSI','Vikram S. Patil* and Miss. Alka Thakur**','14-VIKRAM PATIL 1047.pdf','',1,'','','','',''),(642,'23','A Literature Review on Big Data Reduction Methods','Swati Yadav* and Ajay Phulre**','15-SWATI YADAV.pdf','',1,'','','','',''),(643,'23','A Literature Review on Big Data Reduction Methods','Swati Yadav* and Ajay Phulre**','15-SWATI YADAV.pdf','',0,'','','','',''),(644,'21','Avian Biodiversity a Viable Indicator for Biological Biodiversity and\r\nChanges in Environmental Conditions','Dr. Sangeeta Bhimrao Dongre','18 BFIJ 1273 DR SANGEETA DONGRE 1273.pdf','',1,'Bird migration is natural phenomenon by which birds travel seasonally between two separate geographic regions to be used as wintering and breeding grounds. Bird migration is an imperative ritual for the sustainability and reproductive success of bird species. It is important that birds migrate, in order for them to achieve breeding and food availability. The present study has been undertaken in the GVISH campus as it has a rich flora the avian biodiversity is one of a viable indicator for biological biodiversity and changes in environmental conditions.','Avian biodiversity, Environmental condition, food and GVISH campus.','Bird migration is natural phenomenon by which birds travel seasonally between two separate geographic regions to be used as wintering and breeding grounds. Bird migration is an imperative ritual for the sustainability and reproductive success of bird species. It is important that birds migrate, in order for them to achieve breeding and food availability. The present study has been undertaken in the GVISH campus as it has a rich flora the avian biodiversity is one of a viable indicator for biological biodiversity and changes in environmental conditions.','The study of ornithology has been prevalent for years now. Birds are constantly being observed, recorded, and watched, to further the bird knowledge. Bird migration is a natural phenomenon by which birds travel seasonally between two separate geographic regions to be used as wintering and breeding grounds. Bird migration is an imperative ritual for the sustainability and reproductive success of bird species. It is important that birds migrate, in order for them to achieve breeding and food availability. Migration is also important because changes in habitat in different regions occur at any given moment so that movement allows a succession of temporary resources (Dingle et.al., 2007).\r\nBirds migration is the important phenomenon between breeding, nesting to feeding and resting grounds. To avoid great winter of the west, water birds from the different parts migrate to the Indian Subcontinent and especially to the water bodies of central India varieties of colorful water birds are s','Dr. Sangeeta Bhimrao Dongre (2017). Avian Biodiversity a Viable Indicator for Biological Biodiversity and\r\nChanges in Environmental Conditions. Biological Forum â€“ An International Journal 9(1): 108-110.'),(645,'28','Sub-regional cooperation in South Asia: Latest developments in the SASEC Initiative','Dr. Harsh Jhamb* and Meena Singh**','2 Dr. Harsh Jhamb and Meena Singh.pdf','',1,'','','','',''),(646,'29','Study for Social Media Mining Methods with Soft Computing','Farah Shan1 and Dr. M.K. Sharma2','1 FARAH SHAN 705 farahshanpaper_paper 52_.pdf','',1,'','','','',''),(647,'29','Designing Issues for E-Learning Services on Cloud Environment','Sonia Duggal and Anupriya Jain','2 SONIA DUGGAL 702.pdf','',1,'','','','',''),(648,'29','Design & Fabrication of Rectangular Microstrip Patch Antenna for\r\nWLAN using Symmetrical slots','Mudit Gupta, Pramod Kumar Morya and Satyajit Das','3 Mudit Gupta 711_Research Paper_paper-38_.pdf','',1,'','','','',''),(649,'29','Need for Alternative Fuel in India: A Study','Prof. (Dr.) Atam Parkash Papreja','4 -713-Need for Alternative Fuel in India-SVU Jiurnal_Director Sir_.pdf','',1,'','','','',''),(650,'29','Design Adaptive Algorithm in Cloud framework for m-Governance','Dr. Rajeev Kumar1 and Dr. Nasir Ali2','5-F-715.pdf','',1,'','','','',''),(651,'29','Motivation to a Deadlock Detection in Mobile Agents with\r\nPseudo-Code','Rashmi Priya1 and R. Belwal2','6 F-714 MOTIVATION.pdf','',1,'','','','',''),(652,'29','Analysis and Design of Cost Effective Cloud Based E-Learning','Dr. Shahbaz Zafar1 and Dr. Mohammad Ishrat2','7-F-719.pdf','',1,'','','','',''),(653,'29','Electrical Characterization of Vacuum Evaporated PANI and CdS\r\nHeterojunction Thin Films','Nempal Singh and Pradeep Kumar','8-F-720.pdf','',1,'','','','',''),(654,'29','Design and Analysis of Ultra Wide Band Antenna using Fractal\r\nGeometry','Sharad Kumar, Arun Kumar and B. Mohapatra','9-F-721.pdf','',1,'','','','',''),(655,'29','Experimentation and Optimization of WEDM Machining of ASSABâ€™88\r\nTool Steel','Ashish Chaudhary1, Anshika Gupta2, Praveen Kumar Singh3 and Pradeep Kothiyal4','10-F-727.pdf','',1,'','','','',''),(656,'29','Integration of Information and Communication Technology (ICT) to\r\nEnhance Mathematical Experience','Dr. Govind Pathak1, Dr. H.S. Nayal2 and Anurag Bhatt3','11-F-728.pdf','',1,'','','','',''),(657,'29','Big Data-Challenges and opportunities: A Review Paper','Ms. Preeti Pandey, Dr. Sadhana Rana and Ms. Garima Joshi','12-F-727.pdf','',1,'','','','',''),(658,'29','Stabilization of Dynamical System Using Artificial Neural Network','A.P. Cheema1 and Mudit Gupta2','13-F-733.pdf','',1,'','','','',''),(659,'29','Solving Cold-Start Problem in Recommender System Using User\r\nDemographic Attributes','Gaurav Agarwal1, Dr. Himanshu Bahuguna2 and Dr. Ajay Agarwal3','14-F-749.pdf','',1,'','','','',''),(660,'29','A Survey of Applications of Finite Automata in Natural Language\r\nProcessing','Raj Kishor Bisht','15-F-753A.pdf','',1,'','','','',''),(661,'29','The Role of Soft Skills in Enhancing Employability of Technical\r\nGraduates: A Study','A.K. Mathur','16-F-758.pdf','',1,'','','','',''),(662,'29','Efficiency of Boiler for Coal and Bagasse as Fuel','Vinay Sati1, Vineeta Adhikari2 and Dr. Anirudh Gupta3','17-F-767.pdf','',1,'','','','',''),(663,'29','Big Data Issues and Challenges in 21st Century','Krishna Kumar1 and Akhilesh Dwivedi2','18-F-771.pdf','',1,'','','','',''),(664,'29','Investigations on the performance evaluation and emission\r\ncharacteristics of compressed natural gas (CNG) fueled small utility\r\ndiesel engine','S.K. Mahla1, A.P. Papreja2, V. Singla1, A. Dhir3, Someet Singh4 and G. Goga4','19-F-777.pdf','',1,'','','','',''),(665,'29','Education in Electrical Engineering and Emerging Technologies','Harshit Pandey','20-801.pdf','',1,'','','','',''),(666,'29','Study of Automatic Water Dispenser','Abhishek Srivastava1, Shubham Dwivedi1, Saurabh Bhardwaj1 and Mr. Hem Chandra Joshi2','21-S-803.pdf','',1,'','','','',''),(667,'29','Cell Phone Jammer using 555 Timer IC','David Rana1, Shivam Sharma2, Dinesh Adhikari3 and Rakesh Pandey4','22-S-804.pdf','',1,'','','','',''),(668,'29','Study of Hand Gesture Recognition Based Controlled Vehicle','Deepesh Tewari1, Deepesh Darmwal2, Mudit Gupta3 and A P Cheema4','23-S-805.pdf','',1,'','','','',''),(669,'29','Design & Implementation of LPG Gas Detector using GSM Module','Geeta Loshali1, Rohit Basera1, Lalit Darmwal1 and Sachin Varma2','24-S-807.pdf','',1,'','','','',''),(670,'29','Study of conversion of Sound Energy into Electrical Energy','Neha Joshi1, Dishant Kumar2, Divam Chaudhary3 and Vinod Mishra4','25-S-809.pdf','',1,'','','','',''),(671,'29','RFID Based Library Management System','Neha Pandey1, Shruti Rastogi1 and Pramod Kumar Morya2','26-S-810.pdf','',1,'','','','',''),(672,'29','Intelligent Fire Alert and Escaping System','Saurabh Joshi1, Divyanshu Sharma1, Yashpal Sammal1 and Satyajit Das2','27-S-811.pdf','',1,'','','','',''),(673,'29','Study of Biometric Voting System','Parikshit Martolia1, Pragati Bhojak1, Sneha Bisht1 and Mr. Ajeet Singh2','28-S-812.pdf','',1,'','','','',''),(674,'29','X Internet','Ms.Pooja Kedia1, Pragya Srivastava1, Gauri Mishra1 and Vasudha Gupta2','29-S-814.pdf','',1,'','','','',''),(675,'29','Subcarrier Weighting Side lobe Suppression Technique for OFDM\r\nBased Cognitive Radio Systems','Kiran Bisht1 and Sachin Tyagi2','30-S-816.pdf','',1,'','','','',''),(676,'29','The Threat of Obfuscated Malware','Kamlesh Joshi1, Himanshu Sangrola1 and Rahul Palaria2','31-S-819.pdf','',1,'','','','',''),(677,'29','Analytical Study of Applied Data Mining in Healthcare','Anurag Bhatt1 and Manish Joshi2','32-S-823.pdf','',1,'','','','',''),(678,'29','IoT Techniques to Nurture Education Industry: Scope &\r\nOpportunities','Juhi Bhatt1 and Anurag Bhatt2','33-S-824.pdf','',1,'','','','',''),(679,'29','A Survey on Routing Protocols in Wireless Sensor Networks','Komal Kirola1, Kavita Rawat1, Juhi Bhatt1 and Anurag Bhatt2','34-S-825.pdf','',1,'','','','',''),(680,'29','Analytical Study on Artificial Intelligence Techniques to Achieve\r\nExpert Systems','Kamal Phulera1, Himanshu Singh1 and Anurag Bhatt2','35-S-827.pdf','',1,'','','','',''),(681,'29','A Review of Existing Techniques for Reducing Power Consumption in\r\nVLSI Circuits','Shakshi Rawat1 and Satyajit Das2','36-S-828.pdf','',1,'','','','',''),(682,'29','A Review and Hypothesis on Li-Fi Technology: Integrating Light with\r\nWi-Fi','Shakshi Rawat1 and Satyajit Das2','37-S-829.pdf','',1,'','','','',''),(683,'29','A Review and Hypothesis on Intel CoreTmi5 Processors','Kirandeep Kaur1 and Shivani Nayyer2','38-S-830.pdf','',1,'','','','',''),(684,'29','Three Dimensional Model Maker','Ankit Lohani 1, Himanshu Adhikari1, Jagdish Singh1 and Upendra Kumar Singh2','39-S-831.pdf','',1,'','','','',''),(685,'29','Data Mining and Data Warehouse','Richa Pandey, Lalit Mohan, Sanjeev Bisht and Janmejay Pant','40-S-833.pdf','',1,'','','','',''),(686,'29','A Comparative Study on SaaS, PaaS and IaaS Cloud Delivery Models\r\nin Cloud Computing','Lalit Mohan, Richa Pandey, Sanjeev Bisht and Janmejay Pant','41-S-834.pdf','',1,'','','','',''),(687,'29','Role and Impact of ICT on Changing Lifestyle in Uttarakhand','Yogesh Joshi, Mohit Pandey, Aashish Kumar and Anurag Bhatt','42-S-835.pdf','',1,'','','','',''),(688,'29','RFID Based Secured and Fully Automatic Attendance System Using\r\nARM','Sumita Singh1 , Sonali Singh1 , Rupam Srivastava1 and Amit Kumar2','43-S-836.pdf','',1,'','','','',''),(689,'29','Automatic Room Light Controller with Visitor Counter','Anjali Sinha1, Arpita Singh1, Deepa Singh1, Parul Singh1 , Anil Maurya1 and Mahesh Kumar Singh2','44-S-837.pdf','',1,'','','','',''),(690,'29','Advancement in Irrigation Techniques & Water Supplying in\r\nAgricultural Works','Pankaj Joshi1 and Mudit Gupta2','45-S-840.pdf','',1,'','','','',''),(691,'29','GIS and its Role in Strengthening Rural Areas','Payush Mishra1, Shobhit Kavidayal1 and Anurag Bhatt2','46-S-845.pdf','',1,'','','','',''),(692,'29','Paperless Hospitals','Shubham Ahuja','47-S-847.pdf','',1,'','','','',''),(693,'29','Application of Artificial Intelligence in Sound Pattern Recognition','Manisha Tiwari1 and Anurag Bhatt2','48-S-853.pdf','',1,'','','','',''),(694,'29','Renewable Energy Powered Unmanned Grass Cutter','Gaurav Joshi, Gaurav Singh, Shashi Niwas, Yogesh Singh and S. C. Sharma','49-S-858.pdf','',1,'','','','',''),(695,'29','Improved Methodology to reduce polluting effect of soapstone fly-ash on water in and around Haldwani','Ajay Pali1, Jyoti Singh2 and Prafull Gururani2','50-F-704.pdf','',1,'','','','',''),(696,'27','Improved Methodology to reduce polluting effect of soapstone fly-ash on water in and around Haldwani','Ajay Pali1, Jyoti Singh2 and Prafull Gururani2 ','50-F-704.pdf','',1,'','','','',''),(698,'29','Design and Simulation of Smart Helmet for Coal Miners using Zigbee Technology','Hem Chandra Joshi and Satyajit Das ','51-F-706.pdf','',1,'','','','',''),(699,'29','Implementation of an Efficient Hand Vein Structure Authentication','Rakesh Pandey and Pankaj Bisht ','52-F-708.pdf','',1,'','','','',''),(700,'29','Single Layer Microstrip Antenna with S shape patch','Upendra Kumar Singh1 and Monika Nanda2','53-F-709.pdf','',1,'','','','',''),(701,'29','Distributed Electrical Power Systems in Cubes at Applications','Pankaj Bisht and Rakesh Pandey ','54-F-712.pdf','',1,'','','','',''),(702,'29','Performance Analysis of Services Supported by Cloud Computing as SaaS, PaaS and IaaS','Dr. Sadhana Rana1, Preeti Pandey2 and Omika Latwal3 ','55-F-717.pdf','',1,'','','','',''),(703,'29','A novel design of pre paid energy meter','Ajeet Singh1 and Md. Mustfa Kamal2 ','56-F-724.pdf','',1,'','','','',''),(704,'29','An Experimental Analysis of Shading on Solar Photovoltaic System ','Neha Gupta and Megha Khatri ','57-F-725.pdf','',1,'','','','',''),(705,'29','Attacks on Digital Watermarks: Classification, Implications, Benchmarks','Yukti Varshney ','58-F-731.pdf','',1,'','','','',''),(706,'29','Analysis of Heat Transfer of Ribbed Turbulent Channel using ANSYS','Mayank Bhola ','59-F-743.pdf','',1,'','','','',''),(707,'29','Performance Analysis of Different Types of Facts Controllers in a Transmission Line','Himani Joshi1 and Shuvam Sahay2 ','60-F-744.pdf','',1,'','','','',''),(708,'29','Electrical Energy Conservation Model using Linear Programming','Satyajit Das1, Hem Chandra Joshi1 and Dr. D. K. Rao2 ','61-F-750.pdf','',1,'','','','',''),(709,'29','Isolation of Lactic Acid Bacteria and Detection of their Antimicrobial Activity','Suchita Kholia ','62-F-760.pdf','',1,'','','','',''),(710,'29','Information Retrieval by Local Value schemes: A Review','Radha Joshi1 and Basant B Joshi2 ','63-F-761.pdf','',1,'','','','',''),(711,'29','Influence of Interlayer coupling and pseudogap on Isotope effect in layered high Tc cuprate superconductors','H. S. Bohara1, B. S. Tewari1, Ajay+ and R. Kishore1 ','64-F-765A.pdf','',1,'','','','',''),(712,'29','A Cycle Simulation Model for Bio-Fueled Conventional Engine','Ashis Saxena1, Mudit Gupta2 and Arun Kumar Singh3 ','65-F-779.pdf','',1,'','','','',''),(713,'29','Effect on Total Heat Transfer Rate in Concentric Tube Heat Exchanger with Rectangular Insert in ANSYS FLUENT 14.5 for Varying and Constant Flow','Mayank Bhola, Shivasheesh Kaushik, Ashis Saxena ','66-F-781.pdf','',1,'','','','',''),(714,'29','Study of Speed and Leakage Power Trade-off in Various SRAM Circuits for Mobile Application','Dr. R. K. Singh1 and Krishan Chandra Mishra2','67-F-783.pdf','',1,'','','','',''),(715,'29','Comparison between Bayesian and Maximum Likelihood Estimation of Scale Parameter in Generalized Gamma Type Distribution with Known Shape Parameters under Different Loss Functions','Gaurav Shukla, Vinod Kumar, Shivani Shukla and Mohit Giri Goswami ','68-F-787.pdf','',1,'','','','',''),(716,'29','An analysis of Low Cost, low power and futuristic wireless Technology- ZIGBEE','Komal Pasricha1, Harshita Jha1 and Dr. Sadhana Rana2 ','69-S-802.pdf','',1,'','','','',''),(717,'29','Digitalization in India','Tanpreet Kaur Narula1 and Dr. Sadhana Rana2 ','70-S-806.pdf','',1,'','','','',''),(718,'29','An Analysis of Applications and Challenges of Cloud Computing','Kavita Singh1, Omika Latwal1 and Dr. Sadhana Rana2 ','71-S-817.pdf','',1,'','','','',''),(719,'29','An analysis of Distributed System Over IP Network','Aakansha Adhikari1, Praney Raghuvanshi1 and Dr. Sadhana Rana2 ','72-S-818.pdf','',1,'','','','',''),(720,'29','Data Mining Techniques for Intrusion Detection','Harshvardhan Pandey1, Himanshu Sangrola1 and Rahul Palaria2 ','73-S-820.pdf','',1,'','','','',''),(721,'29','Cloud ERP: A pivot for Enterprise in diversified Business Scenarios','Ayushi Gupta1 and Dr. Naveen Kumar Gondhi2 ','74-S-842.pdf','',1,'','','','',''),(722,'29','E â€“ Governance in India','Himanshu Sangrola1 and Rahul Palaria2 ','75-S-844.pdf','',1,'','','','',''),(723,'29','Wireless Power Transmission','Paras Joshi ','76-S-850.pdf','',1,'','','','',''),(724,'29','Various challenges and Trust issues in cloud computing for improvement the quality and services','Vaishali Pandey1 and Mohit Giri Goswami2 ','77-S-859.pdf','',1,'','','','',''),(725,'29','Survey on Smart Healthcare: An Application of IoT','Cheena Sharma1 and Dr. Sunanda2','78-S-866.pdf','',1,'','','','',''),(726,'29','Recent trends & Innovations in Artificial Intelligence based Applications','Navleen Kour1 and Dr. Naveen Kumar Gondhi2 ','79-S-867.pdf','',1,'','','','',''),(727,'29','Investigations of N2O Transcritical Refrigeration Cycle Using Dedicated Mechanical Subcooling','Sanjeev Kumar1 and Dr. D.K. Rao1 ','80-F-734.pdf','',1,'','','','',''),(728,'29','Study and Analysis of Use of Mechatronics in Modern Machine Design','Arun Kumar Singh1, Ashis Saxena1 and Mudit Gupta1 ','81-F-742.pdf','',1,'','','','',''),(729,'29','Optimization of MIG Welding process Parameters for Weld peneteration in AISI Grade 304 SteelUsing Taguchi Design Method','Gaurav Kumar1, Hitendra Bankoti1 and Deepankar Chandra Agri2 ','82-F-747.pdf','',1,'','','','',''),(730,'29','Optimized Power Flow Analysis of Modified IEEE 30 Bus System with Active Power Flow Factor and Reactive Power Flow Factor','Jyotsna Mehra1 and Puneet Sharma2 ','83-F-748.pdf','',1,'','','','',''),(731,'29','Human Resource Allocation Model using Linear Programming','Satyajit Das1, Sachin Verma1 and Mudit Gupta1 ','84-8F-751.pdf','',1,'','','','',''),(732,'29','Science & Technology research for Industry Analysis in India: a Literature Review','Manoj Kumar Mishra ','85-F-756.pdf','',1,'','','','',''),(733,'29','DATA MINING: A Comparative Study on Data Mining techniques','Ms. Garima Joshi and Ms. Preeti Pandey ','86-F-757.pdf','',1,'','','','',''),(734,'29','An Analysis of Compiler Design in Context of Lexical Analyzer ','Praveen Saini and Renu Sharma ','87-F-769.pdf','',1,'','','','',''),(735,'29','Nonrigid and Affine Registration of 2d and 3d images','Harendra Pratap Singh, Deep Chandra Andola and Mohit Giri Goswami','88-F-772.pdf','',1,'','','','',''),(736,'29','Experimental Analysis of Field Working Hours of Cost Effective Quad Copter for Multipurpose Material Handling','Shivasheesh Kaushik1, Deepak Joshi2, Nandan Singh Koranga2, Chandra Mohan Rawat2, Shubham Sanwal2, Rahul Joshi2, Himanshu Joshi2 and Md. Zubed2 ','89-F-773.pdf','',1,'','','','',''),(737,'29','Optimization of Compressive Strength for Fly Ash Building Bricks Using Taguchi Method','Shivasheesh Kaushik1, Nimisha Raj2, Parvez Alam2, Sabaz Ali2, Naveen Chandra Palariya2 ','90-F-774.pdf','',1,'','','','',''),(738,'29','E- Voting: An analysis of Security Issues in EVM','Vishwa Bhaskar Rao1 and Mohit Giri Goswami2','91-F-775.pdf','',1,'','','','',''),(739,'29','Parallel Programming in the .NET Framework by using wrapper classes for a COM object','Mohit Giri Goswami, Prashant Rajput and Upasana Arya','92-F-784.pdf','',1,'','','','',''),(740,'29','Designing and modelling of temporary and transient overvoltages in a wind farm','Deepak Chandra Pant1 and Tanuj Kumar Bisht2 ','93-F-785.pdf','',1,'','','','',''),(741,'29','An Integrated Traffic light Control System Using RFID Technology and Fuzzy logic','Javed Alam1 and Prof. (Dr.) M. K. Pandey2 ','94-F-786.pdf','',1,'','','','',''),(742,'29','Environment Friendly Energy Efficient Counter Design on 28nm FPGA','Dr. Abhay Saxena, Chandrashekhar Patel and Pragya Agarwal ','95-F-788.pdf','',1,'','','','',''),(743,'29','A Review on Artificially Roughened Solar Air Heater and air Impingement Techniques','Priyanka Saini1, Dr. Dinesh Kumar Rao2 and Dr. Anil Kumar Patil3 ','96-F-740.pdf','',1,'','','','',''),(744,'29','Comparative Study of Different Models in Component Based Software Engineering','Mr. Sandeep Chopra1, Dr. M.K. Sharma2 and Dr. Lata Nautiyal3 ','97-F-759-R.pdf','',1,'','','','',''),(745,'29','Removal of Chromium (Cr+6) & Fluoride (F-) From Water by Adsorption on Peepal (Ficus Religiosa) Leaves Biomass','Divya Agarwal1 and Deepankar Agarwal2 ','98-F-763.pdf','',1,'','','','',''),(746,'29','Human brain interaction and motion perception by blue eyes technology','Upasana Arya and Mohit Giri Goswami','99-F-768a.pdf','',1,'','','','',''),(747,'29','Reduction & Elimination of PCBs Prioritizing the Power Sector in India','T.K. Bisht and Deepak Chandra Pant ','100-F-782.pdf','',1,'','','','',''),(748,'29','EEGLAB â€“ A suitable toolbox for casual BCI research','Dr. S. Sen Purkayastha ','101-F-789.pdf','',1,'','','','',''),(749,'29','Optimization of mining technique of an Image by Image Content','Prashant Rajput and Prof. K S Vaisla','102-F-790.pdf','',1,'','','','',''),(750,'29','Power Quality Enhancement for Grid Connected Renewable Energy Source at Distribution Level-A Review','Mugdha Mishra1, Tanuj Kumar Bisht2 and Deepak Chandra Pant2 ','103-F-792.pdf','',1,'','','','',''),(751,'29','A Novel Approach to Unify Search Engines','Harshit Adhikari1, Ravi Chauhan1 and Anurag Bhatt2','104-S-826.pdf','',1,'','','','',''),(752,'29','Tuning Techniques of PID controller: A review','Bhawana Singh and Neelu Joshi ','105-S-854.pdf','',1,'','','','',''),(753,'29','Study about the Supply Chain, Flexibility and bullwhip effect on SCM in small-scale Industry','Sushil Kumar Choudhary1 R.S Jadoun2 and Dinesh Kumar Rao 3 ','106-S-874.pdf','',1,'','','','',''),(754,'29','Speed Control of Induction Motor Using Smart Android Application System','Praveen Nath Goswami ','107-S-875.pdf','',1,'','','','',''),(755,'29','Digital Notebook: A replacement of notebooks for saving the natural resources','Tushar Jain, Neeraj Upadhayay, Lokesh Kumar & Mohit Giri Goswami','108-S-876.pdf','',1,'','','','',''),(756,'29','Analysis of Linear Permanent Magnet Generator for Tidal energy applications','Ashish Kumar Singh, Kamal Kandpal and Vipin Kumar Singh ','109-S-882.pdf','',1,'','','','',''),(757,'29','Helmet Integrated Bike with Fingerprint Ignition System','Harshit Khulbe, Himanshu Bhatt, Km. Neelam and Naveen Kumar Sharma','110-S-885.pdf','',1,'','','','',''),(758,'29','Methods of Spatial Domain Filtering for Image De-noising From Digital Images','Nitin Pandey1 and Dr. M. K. Pandey2 ','111-F-794.pdf','',1,'','','','',''),(759,'29','Performance Analysis of AODV routing protocol under Black Hole Attack in Vehicular Ad-hoc Network (VANET)','Rahul Palaria1, Amit Joshi2 and Priyanka Agarwal3 ','112-F-795.pdf','',1,'','','','',''),(760,'29','Comparative Analysis of Various Machine Learning Techniques for Diagnosis of Breast Cancer','Arpita Joshi and Dr. Ashish Mehta ','113-F-798.pdf','',1,'','','','',''),(761,'29','Simple Search Technique with enhanced feature','Deep Chandra Andola','114-F-799.pdf','',1,'','','','',''),(762,'29','Some Problems on Holomorphic Sectional Curvature','Mohd. Rizwan and Rajeev Kumar Singh ','115-F-800.pdf','',1,'','','','',''),(763,'29','A Linear Programming Approach to Optimizing Organization Transportation System','Satyajit Das, Shakshi Rawat and Saurabh Joshi ','116-F-752.pdf','',1,'','','','',''),(764,'29','QSAR Approach of Selective Carbonic Anhydrase Inhibitors','Jyoti Singh1, Ajay Pali1, Neha Yadav2, Vijay K. Agrawal2 and Shailja Sachan3 ','117-F-764.pdf','',1,'','','','',''),(765,'29','Artificial Intelligence and its Application','Jitendra Singh Jeena and Prafull Gururani ','118-S-841.pdf','',1,'','','','',''),(766,'29','Anti-Theft Tracking System for Mobile-Vehicles','Aditi Bhatt1, Sadhna Bisht1 and Deep Chandra Andola2 ','119-S-846.pdf','',1,'','','','',''),(767,'29','IR Thermography- As Diagnostic and Adjunctive Tool For Maxillary Sinusitis','Sachin Kumar1 and Jaspreet Singh2 ','120-S-848.pdf','',1,'','','','',''),(768,'29','A Comprehensive Review on Generations of Biofuels: Current Trends, Development and Scope','Rahul Pandey1 and Gaurav Kumar2 ','121-S-857a.pdf','',1,'','','','',''),(769,'29','Advancements in Renewable Energies and Technologies','Muneer Khan and Ayush Tripathi ','122-S-862A.pdf','',1,'','','','',''),(770,'29','An Analysis of Unstructured Textual Data for uniformly storage','Rudransh Saxena1, Paras Chawla1 and Mohit Giri Goswami2 ','123-S-877.pdf','',1,'','','','',''),(771,'29','Uninterrupted Power Supply to a Load using Auto-Selection between four Different Source','Tarun Kaira1, Deepak kulyal1, Jitendra Kumar1, Ankit Kumar Arya1 and S. C. Sharma2','124-S-883.pdf','',1,'','','','',''),(772,'29','Estimation and Modelling of Land Surface Temperature using LANDSAT 7 ETM+ Images and Fuzzy System Techniques','Amit Kumar Verma1 and Suresh S Doddamani2 ','125-S-884.pdf','',1,'','','','',''),(773,'29','Smart electronics wireless based wheelchair operated by using Mobile Application','Vishal Yadav1 and Rakesh Kumar2 ','126-S-886.pdf','',1,'','','','',''),(774,'29','Electricity Generation using Flywheel','Kumud Pant1, Jyoti Mehra1, Ketan Naula1, Sunil Singh1 and Mr. Ambedkar Rai2 ','127-S-889.pdf','',1,'','','','',''),(775,'29','EEG Analysis of Brain Signals: A Review ','Kamakshi Rautela and Neha Singh ','128- Kamakshi Rautela.pdf','',1,'','','','',''),(776,'29','Continuous Time State Space Model of DC Motor using Kalman Filter','Kamakshi Rautela, Abhijit Singh Bhakuni and Sandeep Sunori ','129-KAMAKSHI RAUTELA.pdf','',1,'','','','',''),(777,'29','Biopotentials (EMG) based Artificial Arm','Pramod Kumar Morya, Mudit Gupta and Ambedkar','130-Mr.pdf','',1,'','','','',''),(778,'29','Experimental Studies for Material Removal Rate on AISI D2 Steel using Electrical Discharge Machining','Praveen Kumar Singh1, Dinesh Kumar Rao2 and Anshika Gupta3 ','131-F-735.pdf','',1,'','','','',''),(779,'29','Grid Interactive Rooftop Solar Photo Voltaic (PV) System & its Cost Analysis for Pantnagar University','Sunil Singh, Ajay Srivastava and H.S. Rawat ','132-F-737.pdf','',1,'','','','',''),(780,'29','Mechanical Behaviour of Hybrid Bio-composite Reinforced with Walnut (Juglans regia L.) Shell Particle and Coconut Fibre','Dinesh Kumar Rao1 and Sanjeev Kumar2 ','133-F-776.pdf','',1,'','','','',''),(781,'29','Microcontroller Based Talking Energy Meter ','Vijeta Pal and Pankaj Bisht ','134-F-796.pdf','',1,'','','','',''),(782,'29','Conservation of Water in the Engineering Industry','Mani Bhanot and Sanjeev Kumar ','135-F-797.pdf','',1,'','','','',''),(783,'29','Effects of Heat Transfer with MHD Flow of Micropolar Fluid between Two Moving Concentric Vertical Porous Cylinders in the Presence of Heat Source','Dr. Vandana Bisht','136-F-801.pdf','',1,'','','','',''),(784,'29','Cloud Computing for e-Governance: Indian Perspective','Harpreet Belwal1 and Anand Sharma2 ','137-S-821.pdf','',1,'','','','',''),(785,'29','Analytical Study on the Technological Problems of Rural India and their Remedies','Radha Garjola and Krishna Singh ','138-S-838.pdf','',1,'','','','',''),(786,'29','Spoof Detection: Application to Face Recognition','Navneet Kaur and Kumari Pratima','139-S-849.pdf','',1,'','','','',''),(787,'29','Design and Analysis of 360o Rotable Manual Earth Digger Machine','Nimisha Raj1, Shivasheesh Kaushik2, Parvez Alam3, Shabaz Ali4, Naveen Chandra Palariya5 and Vimal Singh Chamyal6 \r\n','140-S-855.pdf','',1,'','','','',''),(788,'29','Channel Based Color Fusion of Visual and IR Images','Karanpreet Singh and Vinod Mishra ','141-F-707.pdf','',1,'','','','',''),(789,'29','Simulation of Isothermal Ice Slurry Flow','Vineeta Adhikari1, Vinay Sati2 and Himanshu Khulve3 ','142-F-726.pdf','',1,'','','','',''),(790,'23','Programming of Ultra Fast Acting Electronic Circuit Breaker','Santosh R. Rao1, Aakash A. Rasal1, Mayur A. Patil1and Prof. Vikram S.Patil2 ','16 SANTOSH RAO AND VIKRAM PATIL.pdf','',1,'','','','',''),(791,'23','Implementation of PSO-Based Optimum Controller for Speed Control\nof BLDC Motor','Prakash Salawria*, Rakesh Singh Lodhi** and Pragya Nema***','17-PRAKASH SALVARIA 1048.pdf','',1,'','','','',''),(792,'23','Study of Auto changeover system for Backup Generator using PLC','Shivani Kurhe*, Yogita Khairnar*, Ganesh Takate*, Prof. Vikram Patil** and Prof. Harshvardhan**','18-1052-SHIVANI KURHE AND VIKRAM PATIL.pdf','',1,'','','','',''),(793,'28','Financial Inclusion and its Determinants: An Empirical Study on the Inter-State \r\nVariations in India*','Dr. Bhawna Rajput and Dr. Anupama Rajput','3 Financial Inclusion and its Determinants An Empirical Study on the Inter-State Variations in India.pdf','',1,'','','','',''),(794,'22','A Review Channel Estimation Technique for MIMO-OFDM Wireless\r\nSystems','Nitin Kumar Chourasiya and Prof. Aman Saraf','4 IJET-847-NITIN KUMAR CHOURASIYA.pdf','',1,'','','','',''),(795,'22','Different Methods of Speed Control for Brushless DC Motor: A Review','Prakash Salawria*, Rakesh Singh Lodhi** and Pragya Nema***','5 IJET-844-PRAKASH SALWRIA.pdf','',1,'','','','',''),(796,'22','Water Resource Model of Krishna River Basin','Biradar Suryakanth* and Dr. Gopal Mulgund**','6-IJET-846-BIRADAR SURYAKANTH-2.pdf','',1,'','','','',''),(797,'29','Theoretical Analysis for Dual Renewable Resource Combined Energy Plant for Several Applications in Hilly Areas','Ojashw Sharma1 , Shivasheesh Kaushik2 , Chetan Prasad1 and Hina Gupta1','143-S-856.pdf','',1,'','','','',''),(798,'29','An Impact Made by OGSPâ€™s on Indian Consumer Goods Market','Rahul Pandey1 and Renu Sharma2','144-S-863.pdf','',1,'','','','',''),(799,'29','Designing a Cost Efficient Renewable Energy Powered Bicycle','Aman Dhankhar1, Dinesh Singh1 , Garvit Verma1 , Narendra Singh Koranga1 and Dr. S Sen Purkayastha2','145-S-864.pdf','',1,'','','','',''),(800,'29','Rotating Trolley with Lead Screw Mechanism','Diwakar Maurya1, Pashupatinath Singh1, Shabbir Alam1and Shailendra Yadav1','146-S-865.pdf','',1,'','','','',''),(801,'29','Comparison Analysis of single Multiplicative neuron with Conventional Neuron Models','Pankaj Kumar Kandpal and Ashish Mehta','147-S-865B.pdf','',1,'','','','',''),(802,'29','A Review on Image Denoising based on Wavelet Transform for\r\n different noises','Pushpa Koranga, Garima Singh and Dikendra Verma','148-S-878.pdf','',1,'','','','',''),(803,'29','Analysis of EZW and SPIHT Algorithms for Compression of an Image','Garima Singh1, Pushpa Koranga1and Dikendra Verma2','149-S-879.pdf','',1,'','','','',''),(804,'29','Electricity Generation through Running Water in Pipes','Yogesh Chandra Joshi, Ankit Tomar, Ujjwal Kumar, Prakhar Awasthi and Mr. Ambedkar Rai','150-S-881a.pdf','',1,'','','','',''),(805,'29','Systematic Review on Routing Protocols for Vehicular Ad Hoc Networks: A Survey and Future Perspectives','Priyanka Agrawal1, Amit Joshi1 and Rahul Palaria2','151-S-891.pdf','',1,'','','','',''),(806,'29','Study and Analysis of Material Removal Rate on Lathe Operation with Varing Parameters from CNC Lathe Machine','Gaurav Pant 1, Shivasheesh Kaushik2, Dr. D.K.Rao3, Kripal Negi4, Ankit Pal5, Deep Chandra Pandey6','152-S-851.pdf','',1,'','','','',''),(807,'23','Maximization of SINR in femto cell network','Syed Azhar Ulhaq* and Aashish Patidar**','19-1054-VASIM KHAN.pdf','',1,'','','','',''),(808,'23','Enhanced Adaptive Channel Estimation Technique for MIMO-OFDM Wireless Systems','Nitin Kumar Chourasiya and Prof. Aman Saraf','20-IJEECE-1050-NITIN CHAURASIA.pdf','',1,'','','','',''),(809,'21','Heavy Metals Accumulation in Labeo rohita (Hamilton) of River Kabul,\r\nKPK, Pakistan','Khalid Usman*, Hameed Ur Rehman***, Sundus Adeel*, Nadar Ali Shah*, Akbar Shah****, Khalid\r\nPervaiz**, Nishat Saeed*** and Mussabeha***','14 BFIJ-1286-HAMEED UR REHMAN.pdf','',0,'','','','',''),(810,'21','An Investigation on the toxicity of some trace metals in river Kabul,\r\nKhyber Pakhtunkhwa Province of Pakistan','Khalid Usman*, Hameed Ur Rehman***, Sundus Adeel*, Wahid Shah*, Khalid Pervaiz**, Zahirullah***,\r\nRafi Ullah*** and Muhammad Arsalan***','16 BFIJ-HAMEED UR REHMAN.pdf','',0,'','','','',''),(811,'21','Production of Landslide Susceptibility Map Using Self Organizing\r\nMap (Som) (Case Study: Northwest Iran)','Mehran Shaygan* and Marzieh Mokarram**','19 BFIJ-1298 MEHRAN SHAYGAN.pdf','',1,'This study is aimed at performing landslide classification using Kohonen Self Organizing Map (SOM) which is implemented on Shuttle Radar Topography Mission (SRTM) digital elevation models (DEMs) with spatial resolution of 30 m in the parts of northwest Iran. Effective parameters for identification of areas susceptible to landslides consist of elevation, profile, plan, curvature, slope angle and slope aspect. After preparing maps for each of parameters in ArcGIS software, standardization was performed on each of the six layers. Then using SOM susceptible zones to landslide was determined. The results of SOM show that there are seven classes for landslide classification in the study area. Also the results showed that the data had high density and had correlation with each other so that it should be seen that the plan, slope and curvature are closely related to each other. ','Landslides, geographical information systems (GIS); landslide classification, Kohonen Self Organizing Map (SOM); Northwest Iran.','The aim of the study was to determine the effectiveness of SOM as a clustering tool for landslide classification. In SOM, according to qualitative data, the clustering tendencies of the landslides were investigated using six morphometric parameters (elevation, profile, plan, curvature, slope angle and slope aspect). The U- matrix showed that some of the data are closely related to each other, such as elevation and slope. In addition, considering that PC projection represents the amount of data relationship with each other, PC projection was used to determine the study\'s data had high density. The results showed that the data had high density and had correlation with each other so that it should be seen that the plan, slope and curvature are closely related to each other. Finally, using the labels in the SOM method, seven classes for the landslides were detected. ','Using information about landslide occurrence can get accurate information about landslide hazard assessment and risk reduction (Dai et al., 2002). Thus, an accurate susceptibility mapping with different risk levels can be key information for a large variety of users (Fell et al., 2008). There are different methods for landslide susceptibility mapping such as probability and bivariate statistical modeling (Yalcin and Bulut 2008, Althuwaynee et al. 2012; Lee and Pradhan 2006; Youssef et al. 2009), multivariate statistics (Yilmaz, 2009; Yilmaz, 2010a and b).\r\nOne of the method for preparing landslide mapping with different risk levels is self-organizing map (SOM). A type of artificial neural network (ANN) is SOM that is trained using unsupervised learning to produce a low-dimensional (typically two-dimensional), discretized representation of the input space of the training samples, called a map, and is so a method to do dimensionality reduction. Self-organizing maps differ from other arti','Mehran Shaygan* and Marzieh Mokarram (2017). Production of Landslide Susceptibility Map Using Self Organizing\r\nMap (Som) (Case Study: Northwest Iran). Biological Forum â€“ An International Journal 9(1): 111-117.'),(812,'21','Herpetofauna of Uttar Pradesh, India','Amita Kanaujia, Akhilesh Kumar and Adesh Kumar','20 BFIJ-1301-AMITA KANAUJIA.pdf','',1,'Herpetofauna (Amphibians and Reptiles) also play a crucial role in ecosystem function. They are important predators of many insects and agricultural pests and are therefore, valuable for natural biological pest control. Herpetofauna are poikilothermic (cold blooded) vertebrates with smooth skin. The study was carried out during March 2011 through March 2013, with an aim to determine the diversity, distribution and natural history information in Uttar Pradesh. Present study revealed the presence of an authentic, annotated and illustrated checklist of herpetofauna occurring within the political boundaries of Uttar Pradesh. A total 93 species of herpetofauna including 70 species of Reptiles of 3 orders (Squamata, Testudines, Crocodilia), 3 Suborders (Ophidia, Cryptodira, Sauria/ Lacertilia), 15 Familiesand 23 species of Amphibians including 1 order (Anura), 5 families. Among the reptiles 38 are snakes (18 venemous, 20 non-venemous), Crocodile and Gharials, 18 turtles and 12 lizards. Such ','Herpetofauna, Uttar Pradesh, Amphibians, Reptiles, India','Such work should make special efforts to identify distinctive and representative herpetological taxa of protected areas or unique habitats to enhance and highlight their conservation value. Such key taxa can serve as â€œindicator speciesâ€ for assessing the future conservation priorities and requirements of these areas. Though the conclusions are prepared based on the results of the present study, we endorse more research should be carried out in future in the present study area. Seasonal variation for amphibians and reptiles was projected to expand for the majority of species. A large number of species still being described, highlight the need for a more concerted scientific study in Uttar Pradesh as well as a need for greater protection of the habitat that remains.','There have been several efforts to create inventories of Indian reptiles which are collations of documentation, findings and records of individual herpetologists (Smith 1931, Whitaker and Captain 2004). Herpetofauna include amphibians and reptiles. Amphibians are poikilothermic (cold blooded) vertebrates with smooth skin leading a bimodal life i.e. life in water as well as land. The three modern orders of amphibians are Anura (tailless and limbless animals like toads and frogs), Caudata (tailless animals e.g. salamanders and newts), and Gymnophiona (caecilians, limbless amphibians that resemble snakes). Reptiles, found in almost all parts of the world, except the very cold regions. In India, reptiles have their three representativeâ€™s orders-Crocodylia (crocodiles), Testudines (turtles and tortoises) and Squamata (lizards and snakes). The diversified climate, varying vegetation and different types of soil in the country form a wide range of biotopes, that support a highly diversified ','Amita Kanaujia, Akhilesh Kumar and Adesh Kumar (2017). Herpetofauna of Uttar Pradesh, India , Biological Forum â€“ An International Journal 9(1): 118-130. '),(813,'20','Jasmonates Improve Flowering at the expense of Runner Production in\r\nStrawberry','Mohammad Javad Mahdavi* and Rahele Seifi**','21 BFIJ-1206-MOHAMMAD JAVAD MAHDAVI.pdf','',0,'','','','',''),(814,'21','Jasmonates Improve Flowering at the expense of Runner Production in\r\nStrawberry\r\n','Mohammad Javad Mahdavi and Rahele Seifi','21 BFIJ-1206-MOHAMMAD JAVAD MAHDAVI.pdf','',1,'Now a days, hydroponically strawberry production in greenhouse is noticeably increasing in Iran, however there are several problems including low yield, low fruit quality, misshaped fruits and susceptibility to environmental stresses. Using of plant growth regulators is a important means to ameliorate above mentioned problems. Therefore, in this research the effect of foliar application of Jasmonic Acid(JA) at the rate of 0, 0.5, 1, 1.5 and 2 mM and Methyle Jasmonate(MJ) at the rate of 0, 0.25, 0.5, 1 and 1.5 on flowering, and runner production of strawberry cultivars (Paros and Selva) was investigated. Results indicated that both JA and MJ at the rate of 1.5 mM produced the greatest number of flower and inflorescence per plant. JA at concentrations of 1.5 and 2 mM and MJ at 1.5 mM significantly decreased the number of runners.','Fragria ananassa Duch., Jasmonic acid, Methyle Jasmonate, Runnering.','Now a days, hydroponically strawberry production in greenhouse is noticeably increasing in Iran, however there are several problems including low yield, low fruit quality, misshaped fruits and susceptibility to environmental stresses. Using of plant growth regulators is a important means to ameliorate above mentioned problems. Therefore, in this research the effect of foliar application of Jasmonic Acid(JA) at the rate of 0, 0.5, 1, 1.5 and 2 mM and Methyle Jasmonate(MJ) at the rate of 0, 0.25, 0.5, 1 and 1.5 on flowering, and runner production of strawberry cultivars (Paros and Selva) was investigated. Results indicated that both JA and MJ at the rate of 1.5 mM produced the greatest number of flower and inflorescence per plant. JA at concentrations of 1.5 and 2 mM and MJ at 1.5 mM significantly decreased the number of runners.','Strawberry (Fragaria x ananassa Duch.) is a dicotyledonous plant belongs to Rosaceae family. According to FAO, high portions of strawberry production comes from United states, Spain, Japan, Poland, Italy and south korea (FAO, 2006). Strawberry production under hydroponic conditions in greenhouse is an ever increasing industry. Although there are some problems such as low yield, poor quality and sensitivity to indoor conditions (Eshghi and Jamali, 2009). Production of fruits with high quantity and quality is among the general goals of growing strawberry in greenhouse. Usage of plant bioregulators such as Jasmonic acid (JA) has been the subject of many studies, for improving the yield and quality of fruits in different species but literatures on strawberry are relatively limited. So the aim of this investigation was to evaluate the effect of JA on vegetative and reproductive growth of 2 strawberry cultivars: \' Paros\' and \'Selva\'.\r\nMATERIALS AND METHODS\r\nFor assessing the effect of JA on ','Mohammad Javad Mahdavi and Rahele Seifi (2017). Jasmonates Improve Flowering at the expense of Runner Production in\r\nStrawberry , Biological Forum â€“ An International Journal 9(1): 131-132. '),(815,'21','Detection of Arsenic (As), Antimony (Sb) and Bacterial Contamination\r\nin Drinking Water','Muhammad Waseem Khan1, Maria Khalid2, HabibUllah3, Hameed Ur Rehman4, Yasir Ayaz5, Faheem Ullah5,\r\nMuhammad Ayub Jadoon6, Muhammad Waqas6 and Salma Afridi6','22 BFIJ-1288-HAMEED UR REHMAN.pdf','',1,'Contamination of drinking water due to heavy metals and microbial growth is one of the most important concerns that have received attention locally and globally due to its toxicological effect on environment as well as on public health and is an emerging problem in District Quetta. Concentration of Arsenic (As) and Antimony (Sb) along with the bacterial contamination (Colony Forming Unit) in the drinking water of District Quetta were investigated with different parameters. The Atomic Absorption Spectroscopy (AASP) flame emission technique was used to analyze the concentration of heavy metals. Based on the study results, it was concluded that most of the drinking water samples were found fit for consumption with respect to the aesthetic and physiochemical water quality parameters but generally poor with respect to the bacterial contamination due to intermittent water supply, polluted sewerage pipes, leakage of pipes and contamination of shallow water tables due to human activities. Wate','Water; Heavy Metals; Physiochemical; Microbial; Elements','Based on study results, it is concluded that most of the drinking water samples in the surveyed area of Quetta district were found fit for consumption with respect to physicochemical and aesthetic water quality parameters but drinking water quality due to bacterial contamination in Quetta District is generally poor. None of the samples were safe from bacterial contamination. On average, Antimony (Sb) was above the WHO standard limits in the drinking water of almost all the areas of District Quetta. Water samples collected from tube wells had less concentration of Arsenic (As), Antimony (Sb) and bacterial contamination than water sample collected from Home (Tap) Water. ','Water (H20) is an essential element for life and is vital for the survival of living organisms and plants (Alissa and Ferns, 2011). Water is the most widely distributed substance on earth; life would not have advanced without water on earth (Aydin et al., 2013). Physically and apparently uncontaminated pure water is colourless, tasteless and odourless (Pappas, 2011).\r\nThe quality of drinking water is of greatest concern worldwide and access to safe drinking water is a major issue in developing and undeveloped countries. According to World Health Organisation (WHO) report, about 780 million people worldwide do not have access to adequate safe water; on consequences every year more than 2.2 million people from developing countries succumb to death from diseases that are mainly associated with the lack of access to safe drinking water (Berisha et al., 2013; WHO, 2014). \r\nAccess to safe drinking water is a major concern in Pakistan (Azizullah et al., 2011). Only 25.61% population of the co','Muhammad Waseem Khan, Maria Khalid, HabibUllah, Hameed Ur Rehman, Yasir Ayaz, Faheem Ullah, Muhammad Ayub Jadoon, Muhammad Waqas and Salma Afridi (2017). Detection of Arsenic (As), Antimony (Sb) and Bacterial Contamination in Drinking Water. Biological F'),(816,'25','An Overview of the Water Resources in Karnataka ','Biradar Suryakanth* and Dr. Gopal Mulgund**','124-846-BIRADAR SURYAKANTH.pdf','',0,'','','','',''),(817,'25','Planning a Resilient Road Network for Jalandhar and its Peripheral Areas','Simran Tyal *, Ambika Arora* and Manpreet Singh Saini**','125-13.pdf','',1,'','','','',''),(818,'25','Redevelopment as a development strategy: A critical analysis. Case study Vinod Nagar, Delhi','Sumedha Jain* and Vanita Verma**','126-36. Redevelopment as a development strategy A critical analysis .pdf','',1,'','','','',''),(819,'25','The Sensory Experience and Perception of Urban Spaces','Kalyani Wankhede* and Amit Wahurwagh**','127-96.pdf','',1,'','','','',''),(820,'25','Assessment of Ground Water Quality in Vicinity of Industries in Bijnor, U.P, India','Apoorva Agarwal and Dr. Surinder Deswal','128-176.pdf','',1,'','','','',''),(821,'25','Transformation of Spaces due to Urbanization, with a Case Study of Historic Core of Madurai','Ar. Vidhya Lakshmi Rajasekar','129-8.pdf','',1,'','','','',''),(822,'20','Mathematical Model for Managing the Renewable Resources','Nadeem Ahmad','5 NADEEM AHMAD 1051.pdf','',1,'','','','',''),(823,'20','Potential Equations and Pressure Coefficient for Compressible Flow:\r\nComparison between Compressible and Incompressible Flow in\r\nAerodynamics','Menka Yadav* and Santosh Kumar Yadav**','6 MENKA YADAV.pdf','',1,'','','','',''),(824,'22','Optimization of Cutting Parameters for Turning A-356 Alloy using\r\nTaguchi Method','Sulabh Pathak*, Rajeev Singh Chauhan** and Dr. V. N. Bartaria***','7-IJET-850 SULABH PATHAK.pdf','',1,'','','','',''),(825,'22','Parametric Analysis of Various Shapes of Planar Metal Plate\r\nMonopole Antenna for UWB Application','Raja Raghuwanshi and Prof Anil Khandelwal','8-IJET-851-ANIL KHANDELWAL.pdf','',1,'','','','',''),(826,'24','Cajanus platycarpus â€“ an addition to the flora of Akola district, Maharashtra','Nilamani Dikshit*, Dinesh Chand, Sunil Gomashe and Smita\r\nShingane','10_JNBR_6(1)_2017 .pdf','',1,'','','','',''),(827,'22','Heat and Mass Transfer with reference to Aerodynamics','Menka Yadav1 and Santosh Kumar Yadav2','9-IJET-849 MENKA YADAV AND SK YADAV.pdf','',1,'','','','',''),(828,'23','Comparative Study of Active Power Factor Correction between Conventional and Interleaved Boost Converters','Mirza Faizan Baig* and Prof Hitesh Lade**','21-1057 MIRZA FAIZAN BAIG.pdf','',1,'','','','',''),(829,'29','Fabrication of modified steering and drive mechanism for turning wheels through 90 degree in parallel parking','Ravi Shankar*, Kumar Saumya*, Sujeet Kumar*, Saurabh Kumar*, Praveen Kumar *, Jitendra Kumar *,Ashis Saxena#and Hitendra Bankoti^','153-Fabrication of Vechile Turning 90 degree.pdf','',1,'','','','',''),(830,'29','Redundancy Optimization of Flow Network Using Importance Measure','Urvashi Chauhan1, G.L. Pahuja2 and Neetika Chauhan3','154-Neetika Abstract.pdf','',1,'','','','',''),(831,'29','Analysis of Linear Permanent Magnet Generator for Tidal energy applications','Mr. Ashish Kumar Singh1 , Kamal Kandpal1 and Vipin Kumar Singh1 ','155-S-882.pdf','',1,'','','','',''),(832,'29','Heat Optimisation of Processor Cooling by Varying casing Material','Ishan Tewari1 , Neeraj Joshi1 , Sanjay Sharma1 , Pankaj Singh Mehra1\r\n, Amit Melkani1 and Vinay Sati2 ','156-S-892.pdf','',1,'','','','',''),(833,'29','â€œThe God Particle: An Overviewâ€','Chandresh Kishor and Vaibhav Verma','157-S-897.pdf','',1,'','','','',''),(834,'29','Power Transmission At 90Â° through Links','Ranjeet Kumar Singh1 , Balwant Singh1 , Naveen Kumar1 , Ajay Rawat1\r\nand Vineeta Adhikari2','158-S-898.pdf','',1,'','','','',''),(835,'29','Parametric Optimization and Analysis of Packed Bed Regenerator for Space Heating Applications in Hilly Areas','Shivasheesh Kaushik, Ashis Saxena and Mayank Bhola','159-SHIVASHEESH KAUSHIK SOLAR PAPER.pdf','',1,'','','','',''),(836,'29','Load Frequency and Voltage Control of Two Area Interconnected Power System using PID Controller','Kavita Goswami1 and Lata Mishra2','160-F-738 Kavita Goswami.pdf','',1,'','','','',''),(837,'29','Study and Analysis on Boiler Tubes for Performance Enhancement with Varying Corrugated Tube Shapes','Shivasheesh Kaushik2 , Vimal Singh Chamyal1 Bhavana Singh1 , Mohit Pant1 , Sanjay Kumar1 and Tarun Tripathi1','161-F- 739.pdf','',1,'','','','',''),(838,'29','Study and Analysis of Compressive Strength with Varying Material \r\nCompositionRatio and Curing Temperature for Fly ash Bricks','Vijay Bhatt1 , Shivasheesh Kaushik2 , Gaurav Kumar3 , Ravi Mishra4 \r\n, Lakhan Singh Gaur5 and Rahul Kashap6','162-fly and bricks.pdf','',1,'','','','',''),(839,'29','Optimization of Organizational Energy using Linear Programming','Sachin Verma1 , Satyajit Das1 and Dr. D.K. Rao2','163-F-732-REVISED.pdf','',1,'','','','',''),(840,'29','Comparative Study of Different Cryptographic Algorithms for Data Security in Cloud Computing','Mr. Pradeep Semwal1 and Dr. MK Sharma2','164-F-754a.pdf','',1,'','','','',''),(841,'29','MRC in Digital Troposcatter Communication System','Vinod Mishra1 and Karanpreet Singh2','165-F-710.pdf','',1,'','','','',''),(842,'29','Optimization and comparison of manufacturing system using Preventive Maintenance and Artificial Neural Network','Chandan Juneja','166-F723.pdf','',1,'','','','',''),(843,'29','Optimization of tensile and flexural stress of epoxy based walnut reinforced composite using Taguchi method','Hitendra Bankoti1 , Gaurav Kumar1 , Deepankar Chandra2 and Ashis Saxena1','167-F-778.pdf','',1,'','','','',''),(844,'29','ARYABHATA-I: An early Indian Mathematician and his work','Govind Singh','168-F-745.pdf','',1,'','','','',''),(845,'23','Exposure and Avoidance Mechanism of Sybil Attack in Mobile Ad Hoc\r\nNetwork: A Literature','Pallavi Sharma* and Shruti Dixit**','22-IJEECE-1055-PALLAVI SHARMA.pdf','',1,'','','','',''),(846,'28','Foreign Direct Investment in Infrastructure: A Tool for Developing India','Sajad Hussain Sheikh* and Rajveer Singh**','4 SAJAD HUSSAIN SHEIKH.pdf','',1,'','','','',''),(847,'23','Implementation of PSO-Based Optimum Controller for Speed Control\r\nof BLDC Motor','Prakash Salawria*, Rakesh Singh Lodhi** and Pragya Nema***','17-PRAKASH SALVARIA 1048.pdf','',0,'','','','',''),(848,'21','Physicochemical Properties of Seeds and Seeds Oil Extracted from\r\nIranian Date Palm Cultivars','Najme Soleimani Dehdivan* and Bahman Panahi**','23 BFIJ-9-2017-BAHMAN PANAHI.pdf','',1,'In the present study, the seeds of two date palm (Phoenix dactylifera L.) cultivars, Mazafati (Jiroft & Bam) and Kalutah were analyzed for their physical properties and chemical composition. Studies were also conducted on properties of oil extracted from the seeds and its fatty acid composition. The seeds constitute about 6-10% of the fruit weight. The seeds weight ranged from 0.73-0.84g, the length from 19.4-21.0mm, and the diameter from7.3-8.5mm. They, on the average, contained 4.84% protein, 12.22% fat, 27.58% fiber, 80.76% carbohydrates, 1.18% ash, and 1.72% moisture. Mineral analysis showed higher concentration of Fe followed by Ca, Cu, Na, Zn, and Mn. The seeds were also a rich source of phenolics, which ranged from 1840.93 to 1952.93mg GAE/100g. The date seed oils were a yellow semi-liquid having refractive index of 1.459. The average chemical characteristics of the date seed oils were: iodine value 55.153g/100g oil, saponification value 228.067mg KOH/g oil, and peroxide value 1','Arecaceae, date palm, Kalutah, Mazafati, Phoenix dactylifera L., seed oil.','In the present study, the seeds of two date palm (Phoenix dactylifera L.) cultivars, Mazafati (Jiroft & Bam) and Kalutah were analyzed for their physical properties and chemical composition. Studies were also conducted on properties of oil extracted from the seeds and its fatty acid composition. The seeds constitute about 6-10% of the fruit weight. The seeds weight ranged from 0.73-0.84g, the length from 19.4-21.0mm, and the diameter from7.3-8.5mm. They, on the average, contained 4.84% protein, 12.22% fat, 27.58% fiber, 80.76% carbohydrates, 1.18% ash, and 1.72% moisture. Mineral analysis showed higher concentration of Fe followed by Ca, Cu, Na, Zn, and Mn. The seeds were also a rich source of phenolics, which ranged from 1840.93 to 1952.93mg GAE/100g. The date seed oils were a yellow semi-liquid having refractive index of 1.459. The average chemical characteristics of the date seed oils were: iodine value 55.153g/100g oil, saponification value 228.067mg KOH/g oil, and peroxide value 1','The date palm (Phoenix dactylifera L.) grows in the arid and semi-arid regions of the world especially in most of the Middle Eastern countries. It has played an effective role in survival of many old civilizations. As a valuable nutrient, the date palm dated back to 6000 BC (Dowson, 1982). Dates have also an important role in economics of the date producing countries (Gurevich et al, 2005). Iran is one of the main date producing countries with the annual production of about 1 million tons of date and 100000-150000 tons exportation. Date fruit composed of a seed with a hard endocarp and a thin epicarp which constitutes 10-46% of date fruit weight (Sotolu et al, 2011). The seeds are oblong with an abdominal groove, a small embryo and a hard endosperm placed inside a cellulose wall (Al-Farsi and Lee, 2011). Date seeds are odorless with a dark brown color and bitter taste (Hamada et al, 2002). Recent studies show that date seed contains 77.52% carbohydrate (Besbes et al, 2004; Nehdi et al,','Najme Soleimani Dehdivan and Bahman Panahi (2016). Physicochemical Properties of Seeds and Seeds Oil Extracted from Iranian Date Palm Cultivars , Biological Forum â€“ An International Journal 9(1): 139-144.'),(849,'21','The Effect of 6-Benzylaminopurine on hyp-1gene in Hypericum perforatum L.','Zeynab Nasripour*, Nader Farsad Akhtar*, Nasser Mahna**, Rouhollah Motafakkerazad* and Parisa Benamolaei***','24 BFIJ-10-2017-NADER FARSAD AKHTAR.pdf','',1,'Considering the importance of hyp-1 gene function in hypericin biosynthesis in Hypericum perforatum, we studied the effect of various concentrations of benzylaminopurine (BAP) on the expression of this gene. In this way, calli from leaf explants were treated with three concentrations of BAP and the activity of hyp-1 gene was evaluated via Real Time PCR, 24, 48 and 72 hours after treatment. In control samples there was no variation in gene expression. In the samples treated with 0.5 mg/l BAP, 72 hours after treatment, the expression of hyp-1 gene was significantly increased. In the samples treated with 2 mg/l BAP, a 3-fold increase was resulted in the expression of hyp-1 gene in all sampling times in comparison with control. In this project, the minimum hyp-1 gene expression was after 24 hours in control while the maximum was witnessed in 72 hours after treatment with 2 mg/l BAP.','BAP, Gene expression, hyp-1 gene, Hypericin, Hypericum perforatum,','Considering the importance of hyp-1 gene function in hypericin biosynthesis in Hypericum perforatum, we studied the effect of various concentrations of benzylaminopurine (BAP) on the expression of this gene. In this way, calli from leaf explants were treated with three concentrations of BAP and the activity of hyp-1 gene was evaluated via Real Time PCR, 24, 48 and 72 hours after treatment. In control samples there was no variation in gene expression. In the samples treated with 0.5 mg/l BAP, 72 hours after treatment, the expression of hyp-1 gene was significantly increased. In the samples treated with 2 mg/l BAP, a 3-fold increase was resulted in the expression of hyp-1 gene in all sampling times in comparison with control. In this project, the minimum hyp-1 gene expression was after 24 hours in control while the maximum was witnessed in 72 hours after treatment with 2 mg/l BAP.','St. John\'s wort (Hypericum perforatum L.) is an important medicinal plant due to having secondary metabolites like hypericin, pseudohypercin and hyperforin (Figuerio et al, 2010). These and other metabolites, despite having many physiological functions in plant cells during its lifecycle, serve as the best sources for phytopharmaceaticals (Kosuth et al, 2007).\r\nStaggering amount of work has been performed to produce more metabolites from in and ex vitroplant materials (Vardapetyan et al. 2006). To increase the efficiency of metabolite production in cell cultures, culture condition improvement and application of elicitors have been used (Kirakosyan et al, 2001). These conditions include culture medium salts, vitamins, amount of sugar, temperature, light intensity and quality, organic compounds, hormones and so forth.\r\nAt the moment, the majority of medicinal plants genome is known and the communications among enzymes, internal and external signals and other molecules is yet to be cleare','Zeynab Nasripour, Nader Farsad Akhtar, Nasser Mahna, Rouhollah Motafakkerazad and Parisa Benamolaei (2017). The Effect of 6-Benzylaminopurine on hyp-1gene in Hypericum perforatum L. Biological Forum â€“ An International Journal 9(1): 145-149.'),(850,'21','Synthesis of Silica Nanoparticles and their effect on priming of wheat (Triticum aestivum L.) under salinity stress','Ayesha Mushtaq*, Nelofer Jamil*, Musarrat Riaz*, G. L. Hornyak**, Nazeer Ahmed***,Shahjahan Shabbir Ahmed***, M. Naeem Shahwani*** and M. Najam Khan Malghani***','25 BFIJ-1300-NELOFER JAMIL.pdf','',1,'Synthesis of silica nanoparticle is getting great attention, due to their increased use in multidiscipline in advanced research. In this study ultrasonication based spherical Silica nanoparticles (50-100 nm) have been synthesized by modified Stober method using Tetraethylorthosilicate as a precursor. The synthesized silica nanoparticles have been used to study their effect on the wheat grown under salinity stress. Wheat seeds were primed in distilled water (control) and in two treatments T1 (SiNps 100 nm) and T2 (SiNps 50 nm).The seed germination increased from 68% (control) to 81% (T1) and 88% (T2).The young seedlings were grown in Hydroponics in Hoagland medium in controlled conditions under non-saline and saline (100 Mm NaCl) environments. All the growth parameters (root & shoot length, plants weight and chlorophyll content) that were reduced in the saline environments were increased insilica nanoparticlesprimed seeds, which shows the potential of silica nanoparticlesin breaking the','Silica nanoparticles, Sol-gel, ultrasonication, wheat, salinity stress, seed priming, pre-chilling','Silica nanoparticles can be conveniently prepared by modified Stober method in ultrasonication and due to their small size they are immediately utilizable source of silicon for plants. Seed priming by silica nanoparticles broke the dormancy of wheat seeds therefore silica nanoparticles priming that has been introduced for the first time in wheat can be aneconomic and effective technique in breaking the dormancy of seeds and improving their germination rate. Silica nanoparticles significantly enhanced the seed germination and all the growth parameters in the saline environment therefore can be used for improvement of wheat growth and yield in saline areas.','The synthesis and the use of nanoparticles is of pronounced interest in recent research activities due to progress of Nanoscience and Nanotechnology and their broad applications in multidiscipline (Huan and Shu-Qing, 2014). With widespread of Nanotechnology, nanoparticles are synthesized on large scale now-a-days and silicananoparticles are one of the most popular among these.\r\nSilica nanoparticles (SiNps) attained great attention in scientific research due to their informal synthesis and their broad applications in different industries like; agriculture, pharmacy, pigments, catalysis, electronic etc (Rao et al., 2005). Stober was the pioneer to prepare silica nanoparticles of 0.05 to 2 micron in diameter (StÃ¶ber et al., 1968). Stober\'s method is the most popular and common method among researchers with little modifications and is now acquaint with ultrasonication. The literature surveys indicated that the Sol-Gel process (Stober\'s Method) has been evidenced as a promising simplest an','Ayesha Mushtaq, Nelofer Jamil, Musarrat Riaz, G. L. Hornyak, Nazeer Ahmed,Shahjahan Shabbir Ahmed, M. Naeem Shahwani and M. Najam Khan Malghani (2017). Synthesis of Silica Nanoparticles and their effect on priming of wheat (Triticum aestivum L.) under sa'),(851,'21','Soil variables affecting growth of Vetiver (Chrysopogon zizanioides) in the hyperarid region of Sistan plain','Saeed Pourmorteza*, Majid Ajorlo** and Ahmad Pahlavanravi**','26 BFIJ-20-2017-SAEED POURMORTEZA.pdf','',1,'In Sistan plain, 120 days of wind, drought and lack of vegetation cause erosion and soil degradation. Vetiver (Chrysopogon zizanioides L. Robert) is widely used worldwide for soil stabilization. The aim of this study was to evaluate the soil variables affecting germination of vetiver in the hyperarid regions of Sistan, Iran. The treatments in this study were degraded soil along a riverbank, soil around drainage areas, agricultural land, saline land and waterlogged soil in the vicinity of a wastewater treatment plant. A total of 30 bases of C. zizanioides with three repetitions per treatment were planted in March 2015. With care and watering, germination and establishment of the plants were studied in the treatment soil types for six months. The electrical conductivity, pH, moisture content, nominal specific weight and porosity of the soil in the study areas were measured and recorded. The data was analyzed in SPSS Statistics using Duncan\'s test and ANOVA. The results showed the compati','Sistan, Hyperarid, Vetiver, Soil Degradation, Germination, Growth','In Sistan plain, 120 days of wind, drought and lack of vegetation cause erosion and soil degradation. Vetiver (Chrysopogon zizanioides L. Robert) is widely used worldwide for soil stabilization. The aim of this study was to evaluate the soil variables affecting germination of vetiver in the hyperarid regions of Sistan, Iran. The treatments in this study were degraded soil along a riverbank, soil around drainage areas, agricultural land, saline land and waterlogged soil in the vicinity of a wastewater treatment plant. A total of 30 bases of C. zizanioides with three repetitions per treatment were planted in March 2015. With care and watering, germination and establishment of the plants were studied in the treatment soil types for six months. The electrical conductivity, pH, moisture content, nominal specific weight and porosity of the soil in the study areas were measured and recorded. The data was analyzed in SPSS Statistics using Duncan\'s test and ANOVA. The results showed the compati','The Sistan plain is depositional sediment without structure that has been exposed by erosion due to lack of suitable vegetation as protection against the wind and monsoons in areas subjected to drought (Comprehensive Consulting Engineers of Iran, 2004). The characteristics of the desert in the Sistan region causes moisture from the lower layers of the soil to rise to the underlying surface, depositing harmful salts from the subsoil at the surface and leading to high salinity and alkalinity in a large portion of the plain (Soil and Water Consulting Engineers, 2009).\r\n Vetiver (previous name: Vetiver zizanioides L. Nash) has recently been reclassified as Chrysopogon zizanioides L. Robert (Truong et al., 2010). This plant is known in warm and dry regions at the macro level (Sanei Dehkordi et al., 2011). Vetiver can control desertification with the production of biomass and prevention of dust transport (Nilforooshan Dardasht et al., 2011). Vetiver is an important salt-resistant and alkalin','Saeed Pourmorteza, Majid Ajorlo and Ahmad Pahlavanravi (2017). Soil variables affecting growth of Vetiver (Chrysopogon zizanioides) in the hyperarid region of Sistan plain . Biological Forum â€“ An International Journal 9(1): 158-161.'),(852,'21','Varietal Screening of Rice Panicle Mite in Relation to Morphological Characters of Leaf Sheath and Population in 5 major Rice Growing districts of West Bengal','Sugandha Mukhopadhyay*, Kinkar Saha** and Salil Kumar Gupta***','27 BFIJ-16-2017 SALIL-FINAL3.pdf','',1,'This paper deals with varietal screening in relation to morphological characters of leaf sheath in respect of 29 rice cultivars of early and mid-early duration of rice crop regarding population/2 sq. cm. area of leaf sheath, length of flag leaf, length of panicle and % of chaffy grain. In addition, results of studies on population of panicle mite on 8 median rice cultivars, 10 late duration rice cultivars and 11 long duration rice cultivars are also discussed. Besides, it also includes results regarding population of rice panicle mites in 5 rice growing districts of West Bengal.','Rice panicle mite, Steneotarsonemus spinki, varietal screening, morphological characters, West Bengal.','This paper deals with varietal screening in relation to morphological characters of leaf sheath in respect of 29 rice cultivars of early and mid-early duration of rice crop regarding population/2 sq. cm. area of leaf sheath, length of flag leaf, length of panicle and % of chaffy grain. In addition, results of studies on population of panicle mite on 8 median rice cultivars, 10 late duration rice cultivars and 11 long duration rice cultivars are also discussed. Besides, it also includes results regarding population of rice panicle mites in 5 rice growing districts of West Bengal.','The rice panicle mite, Steneotarsonemus spinki is presently becoming an important pest of rice in many of the rice growing areas of the world. This mite feeds on the ad-axial surface of the leaf sheath and is known to cause sterile grain syndrome producing loose and brownish flag leaf sheath, twisted panicle neck, impaired grain development with empty or partially filled grain having brownish spots and the loss is reported to be to the tune of 20-25%. Earlier, this mite was not of much problem in West Bengal though, of course, it was a menace in many parts of South India. In West Bengal, this occurs in East and West Midnapore district, South and North 24 Parganas, Hooghly and Nadia. Many of the farmers are not familiar with the symptoms of the mite menance and therefore often does not take adequate measure for its control which cause further yield loss.\r\nIn order to survey the occurrence of this mite in different districts of West Bengal along with its relationship with late and long d','Sugandha Mukhopadhyay, Kinkar Saha and Salil Kumar Gupta (2017). Varietal Screening of Rice Panicle Mite in Relation to Morphological Characters of Leaf Sheath and Population in 5 major Rice Growing districts of West Bengal , Biological Forum â€“ An Inter'),(853,'21','Growth variables for Vetiver zizanioides in the hyperarid region of Sistan plain','Saeed Pourmorteza*, Majid Ajorlo** and Ahmad Pahlavanravi**','28 BFIJ-19-2017-SAEED POURMORTEZA.pdf','',1,'Adverse environmental circumstances in the Sistan plain, such as poor vegetation cover and dust, is common to the region. The aim of this study was to measure the growth parameters of Vetiver zizanioides in five different regions in Sistan plain in Iran. The plant variables of height and number of shoots were measured weekly as the plants were watered for all plant bases. The depth of rooting and increase in biomass were measured at the end of the study period. A total of 30 plant bases of V. zizanioides with three replications per treatment were planted at the beginning of March 2014 in the hyper arid region of Sistan plain. The establishment and development of the plant bases were monitored for six months. The data was analyzed in SPSS software using Duncan\'s test and one-way ANOVA in a completely randomized design. The results showed compatibility of planting V. zizanioides with the climatic conditions along the banks of Sistan river, along the drainage areas of the wastewater treat','Sistan, Hyperarid, Vetiver zizanioides, Compatibility','The results of this study show optimal performance of the growth variables of Vetiveria zizonioides on agricultural land, along river banks and wastewater drainage margins. It was shown to be very effective for stabilization of soil and dust, fodder production and removal of drainage and wastewater treatment. The compatibility of Vetiver with specific climate of Sistan is a major finding of this research. This compatibility has not been previously been reported and provides a wider potential for growth in hyperarid areas.','Climatic characteristics of arid and semi-arid areas create delicate and fragile conditions along with the threat of erosion and desertification. Sistan has a hyperarid climate, lacks vegetation, and has been affected by drought and destructive climatic factors such as wind erosion. Restoration of vegetation can strongly reduce erosion and desertification in such an area.The selection of compatible plant species that are tolerant of desert conditions is essential to restore and create vegetation. \r\n Vetiver (Vetiver zizanioides L. Nash) has been newly classified as Chryspogon zizanioides L. Nash. It has been used for bioengineering for soil stabilization and other environmental protection purposes in recent years (Truong et al., 2010). It was originally developed by the World Bank for soil and water conservation in India in the mid-1980s (Truong et al., 2008). The World Bank promoted Vetiver grass technology as a type of environmental protection (Sabetan Fadaii et al., 2011). It has be','Saeed Pourmorteza*, Majid Ajorlo and Ahmad Pahlavanravi (2017). Growth variables for Vetiver zizanioides in the hyperarid region of Sistan plain , Biological Forum â€“ An International Journal 9(1): 169-173. '),(854,'23','Image Compression using Wavelet Transform','Heema Sharma*, Shrish Dixit**, Babita Pathik*** and Dr. Shiv K. Sahu****','23 HEEMA SHARMA.pdf','',1,'','','','',''),(855,'21','Varietal Screening of Rice Panicle Mite in Relation to Morphological Characters of Leaf Sheath and Population in 5 major Rice Growing districts of West Bengal','Sugandha Mukhopadhyay*, Kinkar Saha** and Salil Kumar Gupta*','27 BFIJ-16-2017 SALIL KUMAR GUPTA.pdf','',0,'','','','',''),(856,'30','Understanding Sustainable Approach on Eco-Design in Cold Climate â€“ A Case Study','Abhimanyu Sharma','1 ABHIMANYU.pdf','',1,'','','','',''),(857,'30','Introspecting the Voyage of Lime towards Sustainability: A probe on lime as a building material in ancient and medieval epoch','Sunaina Kapoor* and Abhishek Gujral**','2 SUNAINA KAPOOR & ABHISHEK.pdf','',1,'','','','',''),(858,'30','Vertical Gardens for India Social, Architecture Acceptance & Practice','Ar. Ankit Kumar','4 ANKIT KUMAR.pdf','',1,'','','','',''),(859,'30','Reducing Encroachment Problems on Roads to Reduce Traffic\r\nCongestion instead of Widening the Road','Gaurav S Chauhan, Prabhangini Varshney and Avani Saraswat','5 Final Paper_Gaurav Singh.pdf','',1,'','','','',''),(860,'30','Introducing a New Theory: Emphasizing From Knowledge Consumption To Knowledge Production in Architecture Design Education','Ar. Madhuri Agarwal','6 Introducing a New Theory.pdf','',1,'','','','',''),(861,'30','Urban renewal for Affordable Housing Plot-level Redevelopment and In-situ Redevelopment of squatter settlements','Manisha Singh','7 IJET_Urban renewal for affordable housing.pdf','',1,'','','','',''),(862,'30','Importance of Alternative Construction Technology in Steel for Better Ecological Sustainability: Reminiscence and Future Outlook','Poorva Kulkarni','8 IJET paper PoorvaK.pdf','',1,'','','','',''),(863,'30','Process, Material and Method in Architecture - Analysis of Vernacular\r\nand Current Building Practices','Priya Joseph','9 Priya Joseph_ Paper for research trend.pdf','',1,'','','','',''),(864,'30','Adding VALUES in Architectural Design of Built Environment','Dr Rajeev Garg','10 Adding_VALUES_in_Architectural_Design_of_Built_Environment.pdf','',1,'','','','',''),(865,'30','Landscape Considerations in Wetland Management Reviving Gharana Wetlands','Ar. Harbinder Pal Singh* and Ar. Tavleen Kaur**','11 TAVLEEN.pdf','',1,'','','','',''),(866,'30','Silence of Architecture','Jaishree Mishra*, Vineet Shrivastava** and Aditya K. Singh***','12 ASPER JOURNAL FORMAT_vINEET_jAISHREE_aDITYA.pdf','',1,'','','','',''),(867,'22','Digital Water Marking Techniques and Uses IPR','Abhigya Kari, Neetesh Raghuwanshi and Anurag Rishishwar','10-848 ABHIGYA KARI.pdf','',0,'','','','',''),(868,'22','Review: Design, Simulation and Economic Analysis for Decentralized\r\nand Distributed Power Generation in India','Surendra Bajpai* and Dr. V. K. Sethi**','11-IJET-852-SURENDRA BAJPAI AND DR VK SETHI.pdf','',1,'','','','',''),(869,'20','Carbon Sequestration in a Agroforestry system at Kurukshetra in Northern India','Mohit Kumar','7 MOHIT KUMAR.pdf','',1,'','','','',''),(870,'30','Dynamics of Land Transformation in Peri-Urban Areas A Case of Jammu City','Ar. Aastha Thappa* and Dr. C.N. Ray**','13 Dynamics of Land Transformation.pdf','',1,'','','','',''),(871,'30','Affordable Housing for All- a Myth or Reality in Urban India','Jit Kumar Gupta*','14 SMVDU_Redifining Master Plans for Smart and Sustainable Cities_Jit Gupta.pdf','',1,'','','','',''),(872,'30','Adaptability Potentials of Existing Residential Buildings in India','Vaishali Anagal* and Sharvey Dhongade**','15 Vaishali Anagal Paper 2F.pdf','',1,'','','','',''),(873,'22','Reactive Power Control of Transmission System using 48-Pulse GTO STATCOM','Pankaj Kumar Vishwakarma* and Dr Arvind Kumar Sharma**','12 PANKAJ K VISHWAKARMA.pdf','',1,'','','','',''),(874,'22','Assessment of an Analysis of Use of Superplasticizer in Concrete & Mortar','Sukhveer Singh* and Vikram Dhillon**','13 SUKHVEER SINGH 853.pdf','',1,'','','','',''),(875,'23','Modeling and Simulation of Reactive Power Control of Transmission System using 48-Pulse GTO STATCOM','Pankaj Kumar Vishwakarma* and Dr Arvind Kumar Sharma**','24 PANKAJ AND AK SHARMA 1064.pdf','',1,'','','','',''),(876,'22','Soil Erosion as an Underlying cause of Disasters Case of North Indian Floods, and Rio de la Plata, Spain','Dr. Rajshree Kamat* and Priyanka Raj**','14 DR RAJSHREE KAMAT.pdf','',1,'','','','',''),(877,'21','Growth variables for Vetiver zizanioides in the hyperarid region of Sistan plain','Saeed Pourmorteza*, Majid Ajorlo** and Ahmad Pahlavanravi**','28 BFIJ-19-2017-SAEED POURMORTEZA.pdf','',0,'','','','',''),(878,'21','Evaluation of Different Rice Genotypes in Response to Salinity Stress in Seedling Stage','Seyede Fateme Mohamadi*, Nadali Bagheri, Ghafar Kiani and Nadali Babaeian Jelodar','29 BFIJ-5-SEYEDE FATEME MOHAMADI-REVISED.pdf','',1,'In order to assess the response of rice genotypes to salinity stress at seedling stage a factorial experiment with three replications in a completely randomized design in the biotechnology lab of Sari University of Agricultural Sciences and Natural Resources was carried out. In this experiment, the numbers of 17 rice genotypes in 4 salinity levels (0, 40, 80 and 120 mM) were studied. In this study biomass, root and shoot length, root and shoot fresh and dry weight traits was measured. Analysis of variance showed that significant effect of salinity on the traits of rice genotypes. According to the results of mean comparison of traits, by increasing the salinity of control level to 40, 80 and 120 mM levels, significantly reduced all characters. Shoot dry weight had the most reduction percent and root length had the lowest reduction percent in salinity. Simple correlation coefficients between traits showed a significant positive correlation between biomass and root dry weight (r = 0.998).','Correlation, Principal components, Rice, Salinity, Seedling','Research about the trend of population increase shows that between years 1950-2015, the population of earth has increased from 2.6 billion to 6 billion, therefore, the earth population is going to reach 11 billion by 2050. Food is one of the basic human rights. To provide food security, the production of food most be doubled. These days, producing rice has gained importance and after wheat, it is considered the second main food of people. Rice is the food of 2.4 billion people and provides 20% calorie of body. In comparison to large Asian countries such as china and India, Iran doesn\'t have considerable rice lands, but 600 hectares of rice fields have determining roles in providing food security and increasing or national income. Some of the limiting factors and an alarm in producing this strategic product include damage causes, the high cost of producing and misusing the rice fields (Sakina et al, 2016). Environmental stresses are the most important factors to decrease agricultural pr','Research about the trend of population increase shows that between years 1950-2015, the population of earth has increased from 2.6 billion to 6 billion, therefore, the earth population is going to reach 11 billion by 2050. Food is one of the basic human rights. To provide food security, the production of food most be doubled. These days, producing rice has gained importance and after wheat, it is considered the second main food of people. Rice is the food of 2.4 billion people and provides 20% calorie of body. In comparison to large Asian countries such as china and India, Iran doesn\'t have considerable rice lands, but 600 hectares of rice fields have determining roles in providing food security and increasing or national income. Some of the limiting factors and an alarm in producing this strategic product include damage causes, the high cost of producing and misusing the rice fields (Sakina et al, 2016). Environmental stresses are the most important factors to decrease agricultural pr','Seyede Fateme Mohamadi, Nadali Bagheri, Ghafar Kiani and Nadali Babaeian Jelodar (2017). Evaluation of Different Rice Genotypes in Response to Salinity Stress in Seedling Stage. Biological Forum â€“ An International Journal 9(1): 174-182.'),(879,'21','Long Term Deforestation Assessment in Jharkhand state, India: A grid based Geospatial Approach','Firoz Ahmad* and Laxmi Goparaju*','30 BFIJ-24-2017-LAXMI GOPARAJU.pdf','',1,'Forest is a fundamental component of the environment. Deforestation is caused by various anthropogenic factors, forest fire and fragmentation of large contiguous forests. Deforestation represents a global issue mostly caused by human influence and the forest of Jharkhand, India is not an exception as they have also been witnessing large scale deforestation. The aim of the present study is to identify deforestation using historical data for the year 1935 (Survey of India topographical maps of 1924â€“1935) and for the year of 2015 with Landsat -8 datasets in Jharkhand, India. To achieve this objective, the analysis focuses on grid (5 km*5 km) based assessment to detect long term change. The grid based analysis reveals forest percent in Jharkhand for the year 1935 and 2015 were roughly 49% and 23% respectively. The result shows 2596 forest grid for the year 1935 out of which 1372 forest grids were found present in the year 2015. 1224 forest grid (equivalent to 26% forest area) was lost ','Jharkhand, forest assessment, deforestation, geospatial technology, GRID Analysis.','The present study has attempted to develop grid (5 km Ã— 5 km) based forest cover percent of Jharkhand for the year 1935 and 2015. Deforestation has been evaluated based on the grid loss between the 80 years period. Roughly 53 percent of the forest area has been lost between these periods. The deforestation within the state of Jharkhand which is at such alarming rate is concern for forest policy/decision maker. There is an urgent need to strictly implement the Indian forest conservation act 1988 and formulate appropriate conservation measures and strategies in deforested and degraded forest areas. There is urgent need to provide environmental education to the people and involve/encourage them for tree planting/ protecting forest which would involve local bodies for conservation measures plans. The driving factor for deforestation in Jharkhand must be closely monitored and restricted. Finally we recommend that the forests for the Jharkhand state should be temporally monitored usi','Deforestation is a conventional environmental challenge considerably affecting the resilience and distribution of forests across the different boundaries. It is defined as the loss of treesâ€™ cover usually as a result of forests being cleared for other land uses purpose (Gorte and Sheikh, 2010). Over the years, the world has experienced unprecedented forest loss at a global scale. The rate of deforestation is still alarming because in the year 2010 it was observed that the world had just over 4 billion hectares of forest, which corresponds to an average of 0.6 forest per capita (FAO, 2010). As a recognized global challenge, deforestation has gained greater boost in policy and research which has also indicated that there is increasing research on various dimensions of deforestation by many scientists. Though deforestation is well identified problem, it has important to highlight the changes that affect the manifest the rate and extent of it has however varied across the world viz. con','Firoz Ahmad and Laxmi Goparaju (2017). Long Term Deforestation Assessment in Jharkhand state, India: A grid based Geospatial Approach. Biological Forum â€“ An International Journal 9(1): 183-188.'),(880,'21','Pathogenicity Assessment of Isaria javanica (Frider. & Bally) Samson & Hywel - Jones isolates against Spodoptera litura Fabr.','Nguyen Thi Thanh, Nguyen Thi Thuy, Truong Xuan Sinh and Thai Thi Ngoc Lam','31 BFIJ-23-2017 NGUYEN DAC DAI.pdf','',1,'Eighteen Isaria javanica were collected in Pu Mat National Park, Nghe An province, Vietnam. Eighteen Isaria javanica isolates were used to develop a novel screening method aimed at selecting strains with the highest biocontrol potential. Based on five parameters: percent mortality, percent extrusion mycelium, average survival time, fungal life cycle duration and spore production. Only four strains merited further study: VN1472, VN1487, VN1801, VN1802. The life cycle of Isaria javanica on Spodoptera litura larvae includes pathogenesis phase and saprogenesis phase and has five steps. The pathogenesis phases begins with the formation of a germ tube, cuticle penetration and invasion throughout the insect body followed by death and has one step; the saprogenesis phase begins after the insect has died until spores begin to discharge and has four steps. They pathogenicity against Isaria javanica show that this fungus is a promising biocontrol agent to control of Spodoptera litura.','-','(1) Isaria javanica caused high Spodoptera litura mortality. S. litura mortality was ranged between 45.40-81.48%. Based on five parameters percent mortality, percent extrusion mycelium, average survival time, fungal life cycle duration and spore production there are four strains show some potential as biocontrol agents on S. litura: VN1472, VN1487, VN1801, VN1802. \r\n(2) The life cycle of I. javanica isolates on S. litura which includes pathogenesis phase and saprogenesis phase, was completed in 12.46-17.42 days.\r\n','Fungus kills insects are a common phenomenon in nature. Along with other groups of natural enemies, entomopathogenic fungi have an important role in regulating the amount of this class of animals everywhere. Despite the focused, but the study and use of entomopathogenic fungi have not achieved desired results, the efficiency is low pathogenic and unstable. There are many reasons for this situation, the most visible problem is studied entomopathogenic fungi have only paid attention to the production and use of surface preparations without due regard to the basic study as infection, pathogenic of fungi parasitic on insects, the relationship between an entomopathogenic fungi and its host in relation to the relevant factors. There are the essential knowledge, science as a basis for the evaluation and selection of potential isolates as well as proposed measures to improve impact efficiency for entomopathogenic fungi.\r\nIn the world, research on insect pathogenic fungi have gained certain ach','Nguyen Thi Thanh, Nguyen Thi Thuy, Truong Xuan Sinh and Thai Thi Ngoc Lam (2017). Pathogenicity Assessment of Isaria javanica (Frider. & Bally) Samson & Hywel - Jones isolates against Spodoptera litura Fabr. Biological Forum â€“ An International Journal '),(881,'23','An Hybrid Data Mining Approach to detection and classification of\r\nHealth Care Data','Madiha Akhtar* and Rajvardhan Singh Parihar*','25 MADHIHA AKHTAR 1058.pdf','',1,'','','','',''),(882,'23','Brightness preserving and contrast enhancement of various Image Enhancement Techniques: A review','Sarah Adil Khan* and Anoop Tiwari**','26 SARAH ADIL KHAN 1061.pdf','',1,'','','','',''),(883,'23','Prediction of Diabetes Disease Using Entropy and Gain based Data Mining Approach','Asma Aziz Khan* and Vipin Verma**','27 ASMA AZIZ KHAN 1062.pdf','',1,'','','','',''),(884,'23','Synergistic Influence of Environmental Factors for Increased Energy Production by Microalga','Ms. Vijetna Singh* and Ms. Alka Thakur**','28 VIJETNA SINGH 1059.pdf','',1,'','','','',''),(885,'23','5G Multi-tier Cellular Wireless Networks Higher Data Rates Transmission in MIMO System','Neha Malviya and Prof. Deepak Gyanchandani','29 NEHA MALVIYA 1060.pdf','',1,'','','','',''),(886,'28','Shashi Deshpandeâ€™s the Dark Holds No Terror----- a Critical Study of the Raised Voice towards the Voiceless Gender','Susmita Roy* and Dr. Seeme Mahmood**','5 SUSMITA ROY.pdf','',1,'','','','',''),(887,'21','Effect of Activation Loop Phosphorylation on Lemur Tyrosine Kinase 3 (LMTK3) activity: A Molecular Dynamics Simulation Study','Himakshi Sarma and Venkata Satish Kumar Mattaparthi','32 BFIJ-21-2017-VENKATA SATISH KUMARF.pdf','',1,'Protein kinases catalyze the phosphorylation reaction, and they themselves become catalytically activated through phosphorylation of their activation loop. LMTK3 is an oncogenic kinase, reported in various types of cancer. Recent study highlights LMTK3 phosphorylation by CDK5 results in breast cancer tumourogenesis. We determined the probable activation loop in LMTK3 and carried out in silico phosphorylation at probable phosphorylation site (Thr189) in activation loop and studied the effects of phosphorylation on conformational dynamics. We substituted Glu for phosphorylated Thr189 and noticed Glu does not mimic the effect of phosphorylation. From Molecular dynamics analysis, phosphorylated, unphosphorylated and mutated LMTK3 found to be stable. But phosphorylated loop region shows much fluctuation. Thereby ATP binding mode was observed to be different in phosphorylated as compared to unphosphorylated LMTK3. Phosphorylation mediated conformational change in the ATP binding site of LMTK','Breast cancer tumourogenesis; Phosphorylation sites; Molecular docking; Activation segment; Conformational dynamics.','In this computational study we determinedthe probable activation segment in LMTK3. Then we studied the dynamics of LMTK3 upon phosphorylation and compared its dynamics with unphosphorylated and mutated LMTK3 structures. RMSD and potential energy analysis reveal that phosphorylated, unphosphorylated and mutated LMTK3 structures are stable during the MD simulation. Despite the stability of the structures we see mainly the phosphorylated activation segment undergoes much conformational changes as compared to unphosphorylated and mutated one. We also inferred that Glu(189) Thr mutationin phosphorylated LMTK3 does not mimic the effect of phosphorylation. The conformational change in the phosphorylated activation segment of LMTK3 was found to have significant impact on the ATP binding site. As a result the binding mode of ATP found to be different in phosphorylated LMTK3 as compared to unphosphorylated LMTK3. The conformational change in ATP binding site may facilitate the catalysis of phos','Eukaryotic protein kinases are the largest gene family that regulates several important cellular processes, such as cell growth and differentiation (Ban et. al., 2011; Waldrop, 2014). Protein kinases share a conserved core consisting of two lobes, the N-terminal (small N-lobe) and C-terminal (large C-lobe). These two lobes form a deep pocket that accommodates an ATP molecule (Kornev et. al., 2010). The N-lobe consists of five Î²-strands and an Î±-helix (called Î±C-helix). The C-lobe contains Î±-helices and includes the activation segment which is 20-35 residues stretch located between a conserved DFG motif and APE motif that is conformationaly very flexible and its conformation can influence both substrate binding and catalytic efficiency (Huse et. al., 2002; Nolen et. al., 2004).\r\nPhosphorylation is the commonest posttranslational modification of proteins in eukaryotic cells (Olsen et. al., 2013). Eukaryotic protein kinases (EPKs) are the family of enzymes that catalyse the phosphoryl','Himakshi Sarma and Venkata Satish Kumar Mattaparthi (2017). Effect of Activation Loop Phosphorylation on Lemur Tyrosine Kinase 3 (LMTK3) activity: A Molecular Dynamics Simulation Study. Biological Forum â€“ An International Journal 9(1): 194-206.'),(888,'31','New records of myxomycetes for Central America and comments on their regional distribution','Carlos Rojas1, Ricardo Morales2, Laura M. Walker3, Randall\r\nValverde4','1_JNBR_6(2)_2017.pdf','',1,'','','','',''),(889,'31','Investigation of Direct Regeneration in Lilium ledebourii Bioss through bulblet explant','Sina Ghanbari1,3*, Barat Ali Fakheri1, Mohammad Reza Naghavi2,3, Nafiseh Mahdinezhad1','2_JNBR_6(2)_2017.pdf','',1,'','','','',''),(890,'31','The influence of jasmonic acid on induction of HpPKS1 gene in Hypericum perforatum L.','Yaghoub Amirnia1, *Nader Farsad-Akhtar1, *Nasser Mahna2, Jafar Razeghi1 and Parisa Benamolaei3','3_JNBR_6(2)_2017.pdf','',1,'','','','',''),(891,'30','Cultural tourism in Rajasthan: a strategic planning approach for Mandawa','Supriya Sinha* and Madhur Varshney**','16 SUPRIYA SINHA.pdf','',1,'','','','',''),(892,'32','Assessment of Vegetation along an Altitudinal Gradient in Reunsi Beat of Shikari Devi Wild Life Sanctuary of district Mandi, Himachal Pradesh','R.K. Verma','1 RK VERMA 32-Assessment of Vegetation along.pdf','',1,'A study was carried out in Reunsi beat of Shikari devi wild life sanctuary of district Mandi, Himachal Pradesh during 2015-16 to know the composition of vegetation along an altitudinal gradient with elevations varying from 2000-3200m. Total number of plant species was 167 belonging to 49 families and 91 genera. The dominant families were Rosaceae, Compositae, Pinaceae, Labiatae, Ploygonaceae and Leguminosae. The number of tree species at 2000-2400m, 2400-2800m and 2800-3200m elevation was 9, 11 and 4 with the dominance of Cedrus deodara, Cedrus deodara and Quercus semecarpifolia respectively. The number of shrub species was 12, 18 and 6 with the dominance Sarcococca saligna, Sarcococca saligna and Cotoneaster microphyllus at 2000-2400m, 2400-2800m and 2800-3200m elevation respectively. The number of herbs species was 35, 50 and 23 with the dominance of Oplismenus compositus, Gypsophila cerastioides and Potentilla atrosanguinea at 2000-2400m, 2400-2800m and 2800-3200m elevation respec','Altitude, Dominance, Diversity index, Threatened plant, Distribution.','A study was carried out in Reunsi beat of Shikari devi wild life sanctuary of district Mandi, Himachal Pradesh during 2015-16 to know the composition of vegetation along an altitudinal gradient with elevations varying from 2000-3200m. Total number of plant species was 167 belonging to 49 families and 91 genera. The dominant families were Rosaceae, Compositae, Pinaceae, Labiatae, Ploygonaceae and Leguminosae. The number of tree species at 2000-2400m, 2400-2800m and 2800-3200m elevation was 9, 11 and 4 with the dominance of Cedrus deodara, Cedrus deodara and Quercus semecarpifolia respectively. The number of shrub species was 12, 18 and 6 with the dominance Sarcococca saligna, Sarcococca saligna and Cotoneaster microphyllus at 2000-2400m, 2400-2800m and 2800-3200m elevation respectively. The number of herbs species was 35, 50 and 23 with the dominance of Oplismenus compositus, Gypsophila cerastioides and Potentilla atrosanguinea at 2000-2400m, 2400-2800m and 2800-3200m elevation respec','The varied environmental conditions prevailing in the Himalayas support diverse habitat and ecosystems with diverse life forms. The variations in terms of its climate and altitudinal ranges, have created environ those are unique to the Himalayan region only. Himalayas has rich and diverse plant wealth is showing a rapid decline in population of many plant species in recent years. Some of them have already been lost whereas many of them are on the verge of extinction. If suitable steps to conserve the Himalayan flora not taken well in time, the delay may lead to total extinction of rare and valuable plants. This decline in biodiversity largely through human activities is a serious threat to our ecosystem. Therefore, attempts are essentially required to preserve this biodiversity through in-situ and ex-situ conservation methods. Shikari Devi wildlife sanctuary was established in 1974 in Mandi district of Himachal Pradesh. \r\nIt covers an area of about 3,065 ha. Altitude of this sanctua','R.K. Verma (2017). Assessment of Vegetation along an Altitudinal Gradient in Reunsi Beat of Shikari Devi Wild Life Sanctuary of district Mandi, Himachal Pradesh. Biological Forum â€“ An International Journal 9(2): 01-09. '),(893,'32','Habitat Preference and Social Composition of Sarus Cranes in Unnao \r\nDistrict, Uttar Pradesh, India','Adesh Kumar and Amita Kanaujia','2 BFIJ-34-AMITA KANAUJIA Habitat.pdf','',1,'The socio-ecological organizations of birds are complex, controlled by many factors, and organized in relation to the ecological factors especially plant species diversity, food dispersion and predator diversity and density. These ecological aspects influence the group size and composition of birdsâ€™ species. The aim of the present study was to find out the habitat preference and social configuration of Sarus cranes Unnao district of Uttar Pradesh for its conservation significance as the habitat is being degraded rapidly due to increasing human population, industrialization, loss of habitat (rapid declining of wetlands) and other developing activities. The Sarus crane is listed as a Vulnerable category of IUCN Red list, 2010. The habitat preference and social composition of the Sarus crane was studied. Study was conducted in Unnao district, Uttar Pradesh from January 2015 to March 2016. It has been found that 3% of individuals of sarus crane were single, 10% in pairs and 87% in groups','Sarus Cranes, Unnao, Habitat preference and composition. ','In conclusion, the abundance and density of Sarus Cranes had decreased and the social composition including group was different in the dry part of Unnao district in relation to existing population of these Sarus in other parts of their natural distribution. Importance for the conservation of sarus species. It is doubtful that entire sites in present densely populated Unnao district will continuously become availablefor Sarus crane conservation, and the proliferation of cultivation and harvestation at the cost ofwetlands areforthcoming. \r\nSome areas in Unnao district are still providing excellent persistence of significant population of sarus crane. Conservation intrusions in these situations mustbe carefully considered. An improved considerate of the on-site situations could be used in conveying specific conservation plans for the species in the Unnao district.One of the conservation improvement strategies is that of promoting educational efforts on long-term basis by concentrating on ','The socio-ecological organizations of birds are complex, controlled by many factors, and organized in relation to the ecological factors especially plant species diversity, food dispersion and predator diversity and density. These ecological aspects influence the group size and composition of birdsâ€™ species. The study of habitat uses and selection in birds hasa long tradition (Grinnell 1917, Kendeigh 1945, Svardson 1949, Hilden 1965; Block and Brennan1993). Early habitat-selection theory was characterizedby correlative models of habitat characteristicsand species abundance (MacArthur and Pianka1966, Verner et al. 1986, Rosenzweig 1991).A classic ecological study by MacArthur inspired many biologists to consider how plant foliage and diversities influence the distribution of bird species within a community (MacArthur and MacArthur, 1961).\r\nCo-existence of species in a habitat is facilitate by differential use of food resources (Bagchi et al., 2003). overlapping of food resources and i','Adesh Kumar and Amita Kanaujia (2017). Habitat Preference and Social Composition of Sarus Cranes in Unnao \r\nDistrict, Uttar Pradesh, India. Biological Forum â€“ An International Journal 9(2): 10-16. '),(894,'32','Financial Constraints Impact on Small Ruminants\' Production for the Development of Economy of Balochistan-Pakistan','Muhammad Shafiq*, Tayyabha Safdar**, Asma Azhar** and Zubia Masood***','3 BFIJ-28 ZUBIA MASOOD Financial Constraints Impact.pdf','',1,'The objective of the study was to investigate the financial constraints of livestock with special reference to small ruminants of Balochistan during the year of 2016. Random sampling technique was used to collect the data through five-point Likert scale by using self-constructed close ended questionnaire which ultimately turned into closed ended interview as majority of Population was illiterate to less-educated. Hypotheses were tested using correlation and regression analysis. Results indicated that financial constraints in small ruminants\' production is causing difficulties to Small ruminants holders (SRH) in Balochistan. Majority of inhabitants in Balochistan are engaged with small ruminants rearing activities for their livelihood. There are a number of constriction in the way to progress and prosperity for small ruminants\' holders in the province; nevertheless, lack of finance is one the major hurdles which do not let them to flourish their businesses. Availability of internal fin','Financial restraints, Livestock, Balochistan','The primary purpose of this study was to develop and to test a model that examines the relationship of small ruminants\' constraint to profit of small ruminants. The study found out that a number of constraints are positively influencing the less development and backwardness. The results of this study provide considerable insight into the small ruminants\' importance. Hence, the test of model indicates that the financial, marketing and environmental constraints do not let the livestock sector to flourish. The study also indicates empirical sign of the effect of livelihood of livestock holder is interrupted by the various constraints in the province. This means the quality of livestock activities can be flourish by eliminating the financial, marketing, and environmental constraints. Illiteracy is one of major hurdle in the way of progress. Thus, the study provides guidelines to support decision makers to better comprehend how to progress the small ruminants\' rearing activities. This stud','Balochistan is one of the five provinces of Pakistan which is situated in the South West of the country. It is an important area due to its strategic location. Balochistan province has the world\'s third largest herd of goats (Area Development Program in Balochistan, 2015). The province is however the least developed among the four federating units of Pakistan in terms of social and economic indicators. Overall, 56 percent of Balochistan\'s population falls in the category of \'multi-dimensionally poor (Area Development Program in Balochistan, 2015). Agriculture is the mainstay of the dwellings, however, low rainfalls is the major impediments in the way to expand cropping practices in the province. This consequently lead to the common people to engage with livestock rearing especially small ruminants\' rearing for their livelihood. Hence, the majority of population in the province accomplishes its necessities by rearing small ruminants. Livestock of Balochistan, consist of sheep, goat, ca','Muhammad Shafiq, Tayyabha Safdar, Asma Azhar and Zubia Masood (2017). Financial Constraints Impact on Small Ruminants\' Production for the Development of Economy of Balochistan-Pakistan .Biological Forum â€“ An International Journal 9(2): 17-22. '),(895,'32','Correlation and Path Analysis of Morphological and Grain Yield Traits in Iranian Rice Genotypes under Drought Stress Conditions','Headar Aghaei, Nadali Babaeian Jelodar and Nadali Bagheri','4 BFIJ-35 JAHAD SOORNI Correlation and.pdf','',1,'Drought stress is a major factor limiting rice production and cause severe threat to rice production. Studying causal relationships of morphological traits and analysis of relationships between grain yield as dependent trait and morphological traits as independent traits of rice is a useful way to finding out genetic basis of drought tolerance. For this purpose, an experiment was conducted to determine analysis of relationships between grain yield as dependent trait and morphological traits as independent traits in rice Iranian rice genotypes. The study was conducted using a factorial RCBD design with three replications under greenhouse condition. The experimental factors were different levels of drought stress (non-stress, drought stress with re-irrigation and drought stress without re-irrigation) and rice genotypes. The result of correlation among measured traits under drought stress with re-irrigation and without re-irrigation (severe drought tolerance) showed that grain yield had a','Oryza sativa, correlation, path analysis, drought stress, re-irrigation','Drought stress is a major factor limiting rice production and cause severe threat to rice production. Studying causal relationships of morphological traits and analysis of relationships between grain yield as dependent trait and morphological traits as independent traits of rice is a useful way to finding out genetic basis of drought tolerance. For this purpose, an experiment was conducted to determine analysis of relationships between grain yield as dependent trait and morphological traits as independent traits in rice Iranian rice genotypes. The study was conducted using a factorial RCBD design with three replications under greenhouse condition. The experimental factors were different levels of drought stress (non-stress, drought stress with re-irrigation and drought stress without re-irrigation) and rice genotypes. The result of correlation among measured traits under drought stress with re-irrigation and without re-irrigation (severe drought tolerance) showed that grain yield had a','As there are many traits affecting grain yield, splitting the total correlation into direct and indirect effects of cause would give more understanding to the cause of relationship between the yield as dependent trait and independent trait such as yield component traits (Nandan et al., 2010).\r\nSince, number of filled grains per panicle had the highest significantly positive direct effect (0.714**) on grain yield in the drought stress without re-irrigation and also showed a significant positive correlation with grain yield under the two drought conditions, therefore, this trait can be used as a useful indicator for indirect selection of grain yield in screening for drought tolerance in drought breeding programs. In a study, Chavan and Lal (2014) reported a positive direct effect of number of seeds per panicle and percent filled grains traits on yield under drought condition.\r\n','Headar Aghaei, Nadali Babaeian Jelodar and Nadali Bagheri (2017). Correlation and Path Analysis of Morphological and Grain Yield Traits in Iranian Rice Genotypes under Drought Stress Conditions. Biological Forum â€“ An International Journal 9(2): 23-27'),(896,'33','Agriculture Sector in India: As a Career','Dr. Geeta Gupta* and Mrityunjay Nagar**','1 IJAMH-1030-DR GEETA GUPTA.pdf','',1,'','','','',''),(897,'33','Importance of Customer Relationship Management in Marketing of Banking Products and Services','Dr. N. N. Sharma* and Akhil Gautam**','2 IJAMH-1031-NN SHARMA.pdf','',0,'','','','',''),(898,'32','Assessment of Morphological Diversity and Population Structure in\r\nBarley Landraces and Advanced Breeding Lines','Seyed Hossein Jamali*,***, Seyed Abolghasem Mohammadi*,** and Behzad Sadeghzadeh****','5 BFIJ-1303-SEYED HOSSEIN JAMALI.pdf','',1,'Phenotypic diversity in a panel of 143 barley genotypes including Iranian and exotic landraces as well as cultivars and advanced breeding lines was evaluated by using 29 categorical (ordinal, nominal, and binary) descriptors and 9 quantitative traits used in variety registration. Four categorical characteristics were monomorphic among the genotypes, while the remaining traits harbored a great diversity in terms of morphological traits. Diversity index of 25 polymorphic traits ranged from 0.06 (hairiness of lower leaves sheaths) to 0.69 (spiculation of inner lateral nerves of dorsal side of lemma) with an average of 0.37. Cluster analysis using neighbor joining (NJ) algorithm based on Jaccard\'s similarity matrix of 25 polymorphic categorical traits grouped all the genotypes according to their number of ear rows (NER) (six- and two-rowed) except four pairs of individuals. The putative relevance of phenotypes with NER, seasonal growth habit (SGH), and origin of samples was investigated th','Hordeum vulgare L., categorical descriptors, quantitative traits, barley landraces and cultivars, graphical mosaic pattern ','Phenotypic diversity in a panel of 143 barley genotypes including Iranian and exotic landraces as well as cultivars and advanced breeding lines was evaluated by using 29 categorical (ordinal, nominal, and binary) descriptors and 9 quantitative traits used in variety registration. Four categorical characteristics were monomorphic among the genotypes, while the remaining traits harbored a great diversity in terms of morphological traits. Diversity index of 25 polymorphic traits ranged from 0.06 (hairiness of lower leaves sheaths) to 0.69 (spiculation of inner lateral nerves of dorsal side of lemma) with an average of 0.37. Cluster analysis using neighbor joining (NJ) algorithm based on Jaccard\'s similarity matrix of 25 polymorphic categorical traits grouped all the genotypes according to their number of ear rows (NER) (six- and two-rowed) except four pairs of individuals. The putative relevance of phenotypes with NER, seasonal growth habit (SGH), and origin of samples was investigated th','âˆ‘_(i=1)^nâ–’P_i^2 formula, wherein pi represents frequency of ith phenotype of trait. In addition, association of morphological traits with NER and SGH groups was tested using Fisher\'s exact chi-square test for binary traits as well as nominal, and Mann-Whitney U test for ordinal traits. \r\nA. Morphological description of barley panel\r\nThe two-year range and mean values of nine quantitative traits i.e. ear length (EL), ear density (ED), time of ear emergence (TEE), plant height (PH), thousand-seed weight (SW), total seedling length (TSL), coleoptile length (CL), radical length (RL), first leaf length (FLL) were represented for diverse panel of barley samples (Table 2). Among 29 categorical traits, all barley accessions had similar phenotypes for four characteristics. In that respect, all 80 two-rowed genotypes had sterile spikelets with full development (EDSS). In addition, the grains of all 143 genotypes were husked (GH), hairless in ventral furrow (GHVF), and bearing clasping lodic','Seyed Hossein Jamali, Seyed Abolghasem Mohammadi,and Behzad Sadeghzadeh (2017). Assessment of Morphological Diversity and Population Structure in Barley Landraces and Advanced Breeding Lines , Biological Forum â€“ An International Journal 9(2): 28-36.'),(899,'32','Morphological and Molecular Identification of species of Catfish Genus Cranoglanis from Lam River, Nghe an, Vietnam','Nguyen Dinh Vinh*, Tran Thi Thuy Ha**, Tran Duc Hau*** and Nguyen Huu Duc***','6 BFIJ-29-2017-NGUYEN DINHVINH.pdf','',1,'Cranoglanidid catfish are known to be typical of some fish fauna and well known for their delicious and nutritious meat. In Vietnam, they are found in the major river systems such as the Bang Giang river system (Báº±ng river and KyCung river), Thai Binh river system, Lo Gam river system, Chay river, Red river, Da river, Ma River, Ca River (Song Lam). Diversity of cranoglanidid catfish remains unclear and their identification by morphology has given different views. Cranoglanidid use of morphological identification and molecular identification has recently been a new approach. Our present study using both these methods of identification is to elucidate the identity of Cranoglanidid catfish species living in Lam river system based on specimens collected in Tuong Duong, Con Cuong, Thanh Chuong and Nam Dan (Lam river system, Nghe An, Vietnam). ','Cranoglanidid catfish, identification, morphology, molecular identification.','Conclusion: Cranoglanidid catfish living in Lam river are Cranoglanis bouderius (Richardson, 1846)\r\nRecommendation: it is necessary to collect more Cranoglanidid catfish specimens from various geographical areas for morphological and molecular identification in order to obtain the better understanding of the diversity of the genus Cranoglanis. \r\n','Cranoglanidid catfish are known to be typical of the South China and Northern Vietnam fish fauna. They live at bottom and near bottom, preferring moderately and slowly running waters with much sandy and muddy bottom. They usually live in colonies and are found mainly in the downstream of rivers in Northern provinces. Cranoglanidid catfish are famous for their tasty and nutritious meat. Their local names are Ngáº¡nh fish (large fish), hau fish (small fish), haumÃ¹n fish, hautrunghoa fish (Vietnamese name), PapÃ© (Thai name). Cranoglanis catfish are categorized as VU in the IUCN Red List.\r\nIn the world, the catfish Cranoglanis henrici is distributed in Thailand, Philippines, Indonesia, China (Hainan island, Guangdong, Guangxi, Yunnan) and Vietnam (Pravdin, 1963, Red Book of Vietnam). In Vietnam, Cranoglanidid catfish are found in all river systems from the North to the South of central Vietnam, but not found in the South. In the North, catfish can be found in major river systems such as ','Nguyen Dinh Vinh, Tran Thi Thuy Ha, Tran Duc Hau and Nguyen Huu Duc. (2017). Morphological and Molecular Identification of species of Catfish Genus Cranoglanis from Lam River, Nghe an, Vietnam , Biological Forum â€“ An International Journal 9(2): 37-43.'),(900,'32','Arbuscular Mycorrhizal Fungi Promoting Phosphorus Uptake in plants','Javaid Ahmad*, D. P. Sharma*, Razia Shuab**and Rafiq Lone***','7 RAFIQ LONE.pdf','',1,'Arbuscular mycorrhizal fungi (AMF) are most widespread endosymbionts that show a mutualistic association with the majority of terrestrial plants. AMF are known to play a key role in the growth and development of host plant, mainly by enhancing water as well as soil nutrient uptake. Most of the soil nutrients like Nitrogen, phosphorous etc., although present in large amounts are either highly immobile or least available to plants, but quite essential for plant growth and development. AMF aids plants in the uptake of such immobile essential soil nutrients. Phosphorous (P) is one of such essential and critical soil nutrient, making around 0.2% of the plant dry matter. Phosphorous being very much immobile and poorly soluble becomes one of the difficult soil nutrient for plants to uptake. Recent studies have reckoned AMF to be highly beneficial for soil fertility that emphatically helps in phosphorous uptake. In this review paper consolidation of literature is made about the mutualistic sym','AMF, Phosphorus, Plant Growth, Nutrient Uptake',' The phosphorus nutrition of plants is mainly controlled by phosphorus dynamics in the soil, rhizosphere and plant continuum. Given the importance of phosphorus to plants, chemical fertilizers are being used over a long period of time, however chemical fertilizers have adverse toxic effects on the production potential of the land and the ultimate consumers of the products. \r\n \r\n\r\n Ahmad, Sharma, Shuab and Lone 50\r\n \r\nToxic residues of agricultural chemicals entering the human diet are of major concern today. Excessive use of chemical fertilizers causes environmental pollution both at the manufacturing and application sites. It is therefore most necessary to reduce the dependence on chemical inputs in agriculture. This is possible only through eco-friendly approaches of farming system. Besides other biotechnological interventions, the arbuscular mycorrhiza fungi asso','In nature, association is a wonted phenomenon occurring over a wide range but understanding beneficial associations is a bit difficult task for biologists, ecologists and agronomists to elaborate as the processes like evolution, natural selection, extinction may aid selfish performances (West et al., 2007; Harcombe, 2010; Rainey & De Monte, 2014). So for finding a solution to this problem a strategic theoretical along with empirical efforts have been made by carrying experiments, investigations on a wide range of organisms on both specie as well as symbiotic species (Keller and Chapuisat, 1999; Griffin et al., 2004; Douglas, 2008). It is quite astonishing that symbiotic associations between AM fungi and roots of higher plants though being 450 million years old (Smith and Read, 2008) although not being fully unzipped (Walder et al., 2012, 2015) as yet have been recently described (Bever et al., 2009; Kiers et al., 2011). The symbiotic associations of plant roots and fungi have fascinat','Javaid Ahmad, D. P. Sharma, Razia Shuab and Rafiq Lone (2017). Arbuscular Mycorrhizal Fungi Promoting Phosphorus Uptake in plants , Biological Forum â€“ An International Journal 9(2): 44-53. '),(901,'32','Systemic Mutagenesis of Bacillus sp. APR-4 for Enhanced Production\r\nof Thermostable and Alkaline Protease','Neha Thakur*, Tek Chand Bhalla** and Dinesh Kumar*','8 BFIJ-37-2017-NEHA THAKUR-revised.pdf','',1,'Proteases are the most important group of industrial enzymes and constitute 60% of the total worldwide enzyme sales. Strain improvement is an essential part of enhanced production of enzymes from wild strain available. In present study a wild strain Bacillus sp. APR-4 producing 2578Â±0.1 U/ml protease in GYP medium at pH 7.0 after 40h incubation at 50oC was used for random mutagenesis by physical, chemical and combined method to obtain a hyper producer mutant. The physical mutagenesis using UV-radiation resulted in 32.4% rate of survival of wild strain after 90 minute exposure which decreased gradually to 0% after 150 minutes. Isolate UV8 showed maximum zone of hydrolysis (13Â±0.1mm) and enzyme activity (2599Â±2.6U/ml). The chemical mutagenesis of Bacillus sp. APR-4 resulted in 28% survival rate after 90 min exposure with EMS at 200 Âµg/ml concentration. In EtBr (150 Âµg /ml), MMS (150 Âµg/ml), and FU (200 Âµg/ml) after 90 minutes exposure the survival rate was 38%, 20% and 25% respec','Bacillus sp. APR-4, Thermostable alkaline protease, Physical, Chemical and Combined mutagenesis','In the present study the improvement of Bacillus sp. APR-4 isolated earlier was carried out through systemic mutagenesis using physical, chemical and combined mutagens to isolate a hyper protease producer strain. For this UV- radiation was used as physical mutagen, and EMS, EtBr, FU and MMS were used as chemical mutagens individually. The protease activity increased to 2599Â±2.6U/ml in mutant (UV8) with UV exposure alone. \r\nOn the other hand chemical mutagens increased this production to 2678Â±1.5U/ml and rate of survival get decreased with increased exposure time after treatment of wild strain with different chemical mutagen. Further the UV optimized mutant UV8 was treated with individual chemical mutagens at different concentration to see the combined mutagenesis effect on protease production. However, subsequent treatment of UV optimized mutant with chemical mutagen, further increased this production to 3209Â±4.0 U/ml in mutant UVEMS52. This mutant showed 1.24-fold increase in enz','A continuous effort is being made on search for new range of enzymes to meet the increasing industrial demands for enzymes capable to withstand extreme industrial process conditions (Zhang and Kim, 2010). The current status of enzyme market is currently $5.1 billion and is expected to rise upto 6.3% annually (Cui et al., 2015). Proteases are among one of the three largest groups of industrial enzymes and account for 60 % of the total enzyme sales (Zambare et al., 2011). Proteases possess a wide range of industrial applications, mainly in detergents, leather processing, food processing, bioactive peptide synthesis, metal recovery, medical purposes, chemical industries, as well as in waste treatment (Lopez-Otin and Bond, 2008).\r\nDespite massive use of enzymes in biotechnological applications, there is still significant need for improvement of enzymes in industrial processes. Most of the industrial strains currently used for the production of novel compounds are obtained from their natura','Neha Thakur, Tek Chand Bhalla and Dinesh Kumar (2017). Systemic Mutagenesis of Bacillus sp. APR-4 for Enhanced Production of Thermostable and Alkaline Protease ,Biological Forum â€“ An International Journal 9(2): 54-60.'),(902,'21','Salicylic Acid Increases Transcription of hyp-1 Gene in Common\r\nSt. Johnâ€™s Wort','Somayyeh Bahramikia*, Nader Farsad-Akhtar*, Nasser Mahna**, Hanieh Mohajjel-Shoja* and Jafar Razeghi*','33-BFIJ-27-2017-NADER FARSAD-AKHTAR.pdf','',1,'Hypericum perforatum is one of the most important medicinal plants which is used in traditional medicine. Considering the importance of hyp-1 gene function in hypericin biosynthesis we investigated the effect of different concentration of SA on the expression of this gene. In this way, calli from leaf explants were treated with three concentrations of SA and the activity of hyp-1 gene was evaluated using RT-PCR, 24, 48 and 72 hours after treatment. In control samples there was no variation in gene expression. In the samples treated with 100ÂµM SA, a decrease in gene expression was observed after 24, 48 and 72 hours. The same trend was seen with 250ÂµM SA. The maximum hyp-1 gene expression was witnessed in 24 hours after treatment while the minimum was in 72 hours. In 24, 48 and 72 evaluated times, increasing the concentration of SA resulted in higher expression of hyp-1 gene.','Gene expression, hyp-1 gene, Hypericum perforatum, Salicylic Acid.','Hypericum perforatum is one of the most important medicinal plants which is used in traditional medicine. Considering the importance of hyp-1 gene function in hypericin biosynthesis we investigated the effect of different concentration of SA on the expression of this gene. In this way, calli from leaf explants were treated with three concentrations of SA and the activity of hyp-1 gene was evaluated using RT-PCR, 24, 48 and 72 hours after treatment. In control samples there was no variation in gene expression. In the samples treated with 100ÂµM SA, a decrease in gene expression was observed after 24, 48 and 72 hours. The same trend was seen with 250ÂµM SA. The maximum hyp-1 gene expression was witnessed in 24 hours after treatment while the minimum was in 72 hours. In 24, 48 and 72 evaluated times, increasing the concentration of SA resulted in higher expression of hyp-1 gene.','Secondary metabolites have various physiological functions in a plant life cycle and are considered as important resources for pharmaceuticals (Kosuth et al, 2007). In recent years, studies on plant pharmaceuticals are increasingly conducted to evaluate the effects of these compounds on diseases (Bourgaud et al, 2001). Common St. John\'s wort, Hypericum perforatum, has two important metabolites among others, hypericin and hyperforin, that have significant influences on some neurophysiological diseases. The genes involved in the biosynthesis pathways of these compounds have been revealed (Verpoorte and Memelink, 2002). The relationship of some of these genes such as HpPKS1, HpPKS2 and hyp-1 with the hypericin and hyperforin content has been demonstrated (Karppinen, 2010). \r\nChemosynthesis of hypericin and hyperforin is not economic and hence plants are the only preferred source of these compounds. There are two options for producing plant material to be used for extraction of secondary m','Somayyeh Bahramikia*, Nader Farsad-Akhtar*, Nasser Mahna**, Hanieh Mohajjel-Shoja* and Jafar Razeghi (2017). Salicylic Acid Increases Transcription of hyp-1 Gene in Common\r\nSt. Johnâ€™s Wort. Biological Forum â€“ An International Journal 9(1): 2'),(903,'32','An update on the Diversity, Distribution and Zoo-geographical notes on Longhorn Beetles (Cerambycidae: Coleoptera) of North-East India','Bulganin Mitra, Subhrajit Bhaumik, Udipta Chakraborti and Kaushik Mallick','9 BFIJ-1296-UDIPTA CHAKRABORTI.pdf','',1,'Wood boring is carried out by various insect groups either to obtain food or for the protection of their eggs, larvae and pupae. Among the wood boring insects of the freshly felled logs, the long-horned beetles or roundhead borers belonging to the order Coleoptera and family Cerambycidae are found in large varieties and abundance in the tropics and are also very successful in colonising in the hills of North-East India. Present communication reports an update of 562 species under 211 genera of 56 tribes belonging to 5 subfamilies of the family Cerambycidae from 8 states of North-East India i.e. Arunachal Pradesh, Assam, Meghalaya, Manipur, Mizoram, Nagaland, Sikkim and Tripura. The present study also reveals that longhorn beetles of North-East India are mostly enriched with Oriental species (365) followed by Palearctic (174), Australasian (10) and Afrotropical species (5) and rest from the other zoogeographical regions.','Longhorn beetle, Cerambycidae; North-East India.','The present study reveals that North-East India is one of the diverse biogeographic zones in India in relation to the faunal composition of Longhorn beetles and mostly enriched with Oriental species (365). 174 species found from these states which are distributed up to Palearctic region. Only 5 species have extended their distribution up to Australasian and 10 up to Afrotropical regions. This review work serves as baseline data of the cerambycid fauna of North-East India. More surveys will definitely bring many more new species or new records of cerambycid beetles from this area in future. ','The North-East India is popularly known as â€œGateway of Indian insect faunaâ€. Therefore, this area is one of the richest in biodiversity with high in fauna species endemism. But, meagre and scattered information on the taxonomic diversity and distribution of longhorn beetles of this highly sensitive zone of India are available. No holistic approach has also been made so far to update the scientific nomenclature of cerambycids in the light of modern classification. Taxonomic knowledge of these beetles till date is based on their stray collections only from the eight states of North-East India. Keeping in view an attempt has been made to explore published literature, compiled and updated information on the reported species of long horn beetles from the eight states of North-East India i.e. Arunachal Pradesh, Assam, Manipur, Meghalaya, Mizoram, Nagaland, Sikkim and Tripura. \r\nThe family Cerambycidae of the Order Coleoptera is currently classified under the superfamily Chrysomeloidea, a','Bulganin Mitra, Subhrajit Bhaumik, Udipta Chakraborti and Kaushik Mallick (2017). An update on the Diversity, Distribution and Zoo-geographical notes on Longhorn Beetles (Cerambycidae: Coleoptera) of North-East India , Biological Forum â€“ An Internation'),(904,'32','Effect of Planting Date and Cultivar on Grain Yield and Disease Incidence of Fusarium Head Blight in Moghan Region','Kamal Shahbazi*, Hassan Khanzadeh*, Hossein Karbalaei-khiavi** and Hossein Zeinalzadeh-tabrizi*','10 BFIJ-38 KAMAL SHAHBAZI.pdf','',1,'Fusarium head blight is an important disease of wheat in the world leading to grains quality and their infection with mycotoxin in addition to yield loss. This study was conducted to determine the best planting date to avoid infection with fungus. Accordingly, five wheat cultivars (Tajan, Falat (control), Moghan 3, N-80-19 and Darya) in combination with four planting dates including 27 October, 11 November, 26 November and 11 December were examined in Moghan Agricultural and Natural Research Station for three consecutive years (2012-2014). The experiment was performed in form of split plots based on Random Complete Block Design (RCBD) with three replicates. The main plots (factors) were planting dates and the subplots were wheat cultivars. Field observations of the disease were noted during the period of growth and the effect of disease incidence on grain yield was calculated in all treatments at the end of the season. Based on the results, the highest grain yield was observed in plant','Fusarium head blight, Grain yield, Planting date, Wheat.','It can be concluded that in early planting dates, the incidence of Fusarium head blight is increased and the yield is decreased and in fact in addition to increasing the costs of chemical control, the farmer income is also reduced. However, in late planting date, despite the low level of disease, the product yield is also reduced. According to this study, the cultivar had also significant impact on FHB incidence. The study of the disease incidence indicated a significant reduction of the disease from 27 October to 11 December. In planting date of 11 November, the line N-80-19 was the best treatment in terms of yield and infection to Fusarium head blight. In general, in order to obtain high yield and acceptable disease incidence, cultivation of cultivars resistant to the disease in appropriate planting date range is recommended; particularly in the range of 11 November in Moghan region for relative escape from Fusarium head blight.','Fusarium head blight which is mainly created by the fungus Fusarium graminearum Schwabe, is one of the important diseases of wheat in the world (Gale, 2003; Brennan et al., 2005; Toth et al., 2008). This disease has been spread in Iran for many years and is considered as one of important wheat diseases in provinces of Mazandaran, Golestan, Zanjan, Fars and Ardabil (Moghan) (Bernusi et al., 2002). Fusarium head blight has been reported in different countries such as Russia, Sweden, France, Italy, Germany, Australia, Brazil, Norway, Japan and Canada (Parry et al., 1995). Fusarium head blight reduces the grain weight in two ways. In infected grains, the florets are pink, white or light gray, grains are shriveled with low or without endosperm. The test weight is significantly low in these grains. In susceptible genotypes, up to 80% of florets can show such symptoms leading to apparent decline in grains weight (Bai and Shaner, 1994; Jones and Mirocha, 1999). The second effect of FHB occur','Kamal Shahbazi, Hassan Khanzadeh, Hossein Karbalaei-khiavi and Hossein Zeinalzadeh-tabrizi (2017). Effect of Planting Date and Cultivar on Grain Yield and Disease Incidence of Fusarium Head Blight in Moghan Region , Biological Forum â€“ An International J'),(905,'34','A Novel Strain for the Managements of Plant Diseases: Trichoderma Spp.','Madhu Prakash Srivastava','1 IJTAS-1-2017-DR MADHU PRAKASH SRIVASTAVA-R.pdf','',1,'','','','',''),(906,'21','New Locality and Host Record of the Genus Cotylurus Szidat, 1928 (Trematoda: Strigeidae) from the bird Bubulcus ibis (Cattle egret) in \r\nNausharo Feroze, Sindh, Pakistan','Siyal Bushra* , Rafia Rehana Ghazi** and Sanjota Nirmal Das*','34 BFIJ-3-2017-SIYAL BUSHRA.pdf','',1,'During a survey of helminth parasites of bird Bubulcus ibis (Cattle egret) of Naushro Feroze District, Sindh Pakistan. More than 150 specimens were recovered from the small intestine of 10 hosts. Present specimens are closer to the type species Cotylurus cornutus (Rudolphi, 1808; Szidat, 1928) in specific characters such as general body shape including fore body and hind body, position and shape of suckers, position of tri-bocytic organ, position of gonads and arrangement of vitelline follicles.','Cotylurus cornutus, Bubulcus ibis, Nausharo Feroze, Sindh, Pakistan.','In all essential features, present specimens appear to match the reported species in having general body structures, position of oral and ventral suckers, position of gonads, position of tribocytic organ but variations are noted in some species, general body shapes and sizes, position, sizes of oral and ventral suckers, size and shapes of gonads. \r\nSpecies identification is attempted at present and re-described as C. cornutus (Rudolphi, 1808) Szidat, 1928, Bhutta and Khan, 1975 with new host Bubulcus ibis and new locality Nausharo Feroze, Sindh, Pakistan\r\n','The genus Cotylurus is cosmopolitan and was created by (Szidat, 1928) as synonym of Cotylurostrigea (Sudarikov, 1961). The genus belongs to the family Strigeidae (Railliet, 1919) and subfamily Strigeinae (Railliet, 1919).\r\n(Yamaguti, 1971) reported 22 species of the genus Cotylurus type species as Cotylurus cornutus (Rudolphi, 1808; Szidat, 1928). Species reported from the India are C. orientalis (Vidyarth, 1937) from Anas creccaand C. intermedicus (Gupta et Gupta, 1962) from Hydrophasianus chirurgus.\r\nSpecies reported from Pakistan are C. cornutus (Rudolphi, 1808; Szidat, 1928; Bhutta and Khan, 1975) from Circus aeruginosus; C. sindhense (Birmani et al., 2009) from Fulicaatra and C. fuscicollisi (Sanjota et al., 2012) from Phalacrocorax fuscicollis.\r\nHowever, the present study represents a first record and new locality of the genus Cotylurus from Bubulcus ibis (Cattle egret) from Naushro Feroze, Sindh, Pakistan.\r\nMATERIAL AND METHODS\r\nFourteen birdâ€™s Bubulcus ibis (Cattle egret) bel','Siyal Bushra , Rafia Rehana Ghazi and Sanjota Nirmal Das (2017). New Locality and Host Record of the Genus Cotylurus Szidat, 1928 (Trematoda: Strigeidae) from the bird Bubulcus ibis (Cattle egret) in \r\nNausharo Feroze, Sindh, Pakistan. Biological Forum â'),(907,'35','Infrastructure as a Service (Iaas) Security Issues in Cloud Computing ','Dr. Pawan Thakur* and Sachin Awasthi**','IJET-1-2017-DR PAWAN THAKUR.pdf','',0,'','','','',''),(908,'32','A Multiplex PCR assay for Discriminating Charlock from Rapeseed: Implications for Seed Testing','Seyed Hossein Jamali, Leila Sadeghi and Maryam Najafian','11 BFIJ-39-2017-SEYED HOSSEIN JAMALI.pdf','',1,'So far, a number of specific markers have been introduced for genome identification and phylogenic studies in Brassicaceae family. We introduced a new application for these markers i.e. identifying charlock as a noxious weed in seed samples of rapeseed. A multiplex PCR assay was designed based on 625, 190 and 325 bp fragments of Brassica Transparent Testa Glabra 1 (TTG1) gene, 5S ribosomal DNA, and cruciferin gene as internal control. The resulting presence/absence amplification pattern could differentiate Sinapis arvensis genome (SarSar) from that of Brassica napus (AACC). As an alternative to chemical tests, this assay can complement visual identification wherein charlock seeds are discerned based on seed morphology by seed analysts. However, the discriminating characteristics are completely hidden once working samples are taken from film-coated seeds. Moreover, interaction of chemicals used in film coating might result in misclassification. Therefore, the introduced molecular assay ','charlock, rapeseed, noxious weed, seed testing ','So far, a number of specific markers have been introduced for genome identification and phylogenic studies in Brassicaceae family. We introduced a new application for these markers i.e. identifying charlock as a noxious weed in seed samples of rapeseed. A multiplex PCR assay was designed based on 625, 190 and 325 bp fragments of Brassica Transparent Testa Glabra 1 (TTG1) gene, 5S ribosomal DNA, and cruciferin gene as internal control. The resulting presence/absence amplification pattern could differentiate Sinapis arvensis genome (SarSar) from that of Brassica napus (AACC). As an alternative to chemical tests, this assay can complement visual identification wherein charlock seeds are discerned based on seed morphology by seed analysts. However, the discriminating characteristics are completely hidden once working samples are taken from film-coated seeds. Moreover, interaction of chemicals used in film coating might result in misclassification. Therefore, the introduced molecular assay ','In spite of being a valuable source of resistance to diseases and pod shattering (Snowdon et al., 2000; Liu et al., 2014) and recently novel type of cytoplasmic male sterility (Liu et al., 2015), charlock or wild mustard (Sinapis arvensis L.) is a notorious weed of Brassica crops. Moreover, when it comes to determining other seeds in rapeseed (Brassica napus L.) seed samples, it is also considered as a noxious weed along with other seeds like wild radish (Raphanus raphanistrum) and turnip weed (Rapistrum rugosum). Maximum number of restricted seeds in a noxious weed exam varies between countries as defined in national seed standards. For instance, Iran\'s seed standard tolerate up to seven weed seed (including charlock) in a 100g sample of rapeseed. There is also much more stringent standard by restricting up to two seeds in a half pound sample of certified rapeseed bag as mandated by Oregon Seed Certification Service, USA. Although rapeseed and charlock could be roughly distinguished f','Seyed Hossein Jamali, Leila Sadeghi and Maryam Najafian (2017). A Multiplex PCR assay for Discriminating Charlock from Rapeseed: Implications for Seed Testing , Biological Forum â€“ An International Journal 9(2): 87-91. '),(909,'32','Design, Construction, and Performance Evaluation of an Innovative Hybrid Fluidized Bed-Infrared Chickpea Roaster','Mohammad Reza Yousefzadeh Taheri*, Hamid Reza Ghassemzadeh*, Seyyed Faramarz Ranjbar** , Mohammad Moghaddam Vahed*** and Hamid Reza Gazor****','12 BFIJ-40-2017-MOHAMMAD REZA YOUSEFZADEH TAHERI-F.pdf','',1,'Traditional roasting of chickpea is an arduous and intricate unit operation for processors. It is highly labor intensive, tedious, unhygienic, and productivity is often too low to justify labor and investment time. The aim of this study was thus to design and fabricate a chickpea roaster and evaluate its performance. Raw chickpea of different moisture content (7.92, 8.37 and 9.16%) were roasted at different roasting temperatures (110, 120 and 130Â°C) and performance characteristics including, roasting time, percentage material loss, functional efficiency, throughput, and machine capacity were evaluated. Results obtained indicated that roasting chickpea of 7.92% at 120Â°C yielded the best roasting conditions, as it had the least material loss of 1.47% best throughput capacity and functional efficiency of 18.13kg/h and 97.72%, respectively. The fabricated chickpea roaster does not require skilled labor and can effectively address the challenges associated with chickpea roasting.\r\nPractic','chickpea, roasting, Nokhodchi, fluidized-bed, infrared, performance evaluation','Roasting of raw chickpea into Nokhodchi continues to be a tedious operation. To address this, a prototype chickpea roasting machine was designed, constructed and evaluated. The roasting process took a range of 15.18-20.58 min (0.253-0.343hr), while the optimum chickpea roasting conditions were at raw chickpea moisture content and roasting temperature of 8.61% and 120Â°C, respectively, with a functional efficiency of 97.72%. The drudgery and tediousness associated with chickpea roasting was effectively eliminated and a more wholesome, safer, and good quality product was produced. Furthermore, the operation of this machine does not require manual labor nor does it entail the use of skilled labor. The equipment is of significant importance to the teeming number of local chickpea processors, dwelling mostly in rural communities. The roaster can also be useful in the mass production of Nokhodchi for commercial purposes.','Chickpea (Cicer arietinum Linn.) is one of the oldest and most consumed legumes in the world and in the Mediterranean regions of Asia, Africa and Europe. In addition to its high content in proteins, it contains an important amount of polyphenols and it is considered to be among the richest legumes (Mrad, Rouphael, Maroun, & Louka, 2014). Chickpea is one of the most important beans in Iran, India, Turkey and Australia (Kaur, Singh, & Sodhi, 2005). \r\nProcessing of chickpea into Nokhodchi (roasted chickpea), involves a number of unit operations including cleaning, grading, roasting, resting, moisturizing, dehulling, cleaning and grading again. Of all the processing steps, the most critical and vital, that determines the final quality of chickpea are the roasting and moisturizing operations (Coskuner & Karababa, 2004; Iyer, 1997). \r\nRoasting and puffing are ancient methods of processing pulses and have not been modernized or automated, although some degree of mechanization has occurred rec','Mohammad Reza Yousefzadeh Taheri, Hamid Reza Ghassemzadeh, Seyyed Faramarz Ranjbar , Mohammad Moghaddam Vahed and Hamid Reza Gazor (2017). Design, Construction, and Performance Evaluation of an Innovative Hybrid Fluidized Bed-Infrared Chickpea Roaster , '),(910,'34','Ag+9 Swift Heavy ion Irradiation: Augmented Removal of auramine-O \r\nDye and Bactericidal Activity','Sukriti, B. S. Kaith and Rajeev Jindal','2 IJTAS-4-2017-SUKRITI.pdf','',1,'','','','',''),(911,'23','Image Enhancement Using DWT, High Boost Filtering and IDWT','Swati Mall* and Ratan Singh**','30 SWATI MALL.pdf','',1,'','','','',''),(912,'34','Kerberos based Enhanced Authentication Protocol for Cloud Computing Environment','Sweta Jain* and Dr Vineet Richhariya**','3 IJTAS-2-2017-SHWETA JAIN.pdf','',1,'','','','',''),(913,'34','Effect of Pesticides on Health of Agricultural Farm Female Workers in Ghatanji Region of Yavatmal District, Maharashtra','Abhay Patki','4 IJTAS-5-2017-ABHAY PATKI.pdf','',1,'','','','',''),(914,'34','Docking Study of Chrysin Derivatives â€œ7-[2-Hydroxy- 3(substitutedamino)propoxy]-5-hydroxy-2-phenyl-4H-chromen-4-oneâ€','Sheetal Shrimal and Anamika Jain','5 IJTAS-9-2017-SHEETAL SHRIMAL.pdf','',1,'','','','',''),(915,'34','Assessment of Mercury Toxicity on Seed Germination, Growth and\r\nAntioxidant Enzyme Expression of Sorghum vulgare var. SG- 1000 \r\nSeedlings','Deepti Mukhraiya and J.L. Bhat','6 IJTAS-13-2017-DEEPTI MUKHRAIYA-r.pdf','',1,'','','','',''),(916,'34','Effect of Mass on the Lyoluminescence of Î³ â€“ Irradiated Potassium \r\nHalide Microcrystals','Ramneek Kaur* , R.S. Chandok** and G.K. Chandok***','7 JTAS-3-2017-RAMNEEK KAUR.pdf','',1,'','','','',''),(917,'33','A Study of Inland Water Transport (IWT)-Steam Boats in India with special reference to United Provinces (Uttar Pradesh)','B. B. Bandyopadhyay and Prof. Roumi Deb','A Study of Inland Water Transport (IWT)-Steam Boats in India with special reference to United Provinces (Uttar Pradesh) B. B. BANDYOPADHYAY 3.pdf','',1,'','','','',''),(918,'32','Applications of Nanotechnology for Improving Production Methods and Performance of Agricultural Equipment','Amin Lotfalian Dehkordi and Farideh Keivani','13 BFIJ-41-2017-AMIN LOTFALIAN DEHKORDI.pdf','',1,'Given that the agriculture sector is one of the social, economic elements and indicators of sustainable development in any country, investigating the impact of the introduction of new technologies and how to introduce the technologies into this sector is of particular importance. Since nanotechnology, as one of these new technologies, has a growing trend in the production and manufacture of all the equipment used in everyday life, as well as nanotechnology has special features related to hard-working conditions, design and durability characteristics of agricultural equipment and one of its areas of application can be in the field of producing and manufacturing agricultural equipment with special features in different fields, this paper examines the role of this technology in improving the production methods and, ultimately, the impact of this technology on improving the performance of agricultural equipment. Nanotechnology has not abandoned any scientific field, therefore, agricultural','Nano, Agricultural machinery, Tractor, Nanocomposite, Nano filter, Glass, Lubricants.','Given that the agriculture sector is one of the social, economic elements and indicators of sustainable development in any country, investigating the impact of the introduction of new technologies and how to introduce the technologies into this sector is of particular importance. Since nanotechnology, as one of these new technologies, has a growing trend in the production and manufacture of all the equipment used in everyday life, as well as nanotechnology has special features related to hard-working conditions, design and durability characteristics of agricultural equipment and one of its areas of application can be in the field of producing and manufacturing agricultural equipment with special features in different fields, this paper examines the role of this technology in improving the production methods and, ultimately, the impact of this technology on improving the performance of agricultural equipment. Nanotechnology has not abandoned any scientific field, therefore, agricultural','INTRODUCTION\r\nNanotechnology is the ability to produce new materials, tools, and systems with controlling in molecular and atomic surfaces and the use of properties in which surfaces appear. It follows from this simple definition that nanotechnology is not a new discipline but a new approach in all disciplines. Nano derives from the Greek nanus, meaning \"dwarf\") Abedini, et al., 2013). Nanotechnology is the ability to produce, control, and use nanometric materials. The particle size in nanotechnology is very important, since on a nanometric scale, the material dimensions are very effective in its properties, and the physical, chemical, and biological properties of each atom and molecule are different with the properties of the mass of the material. This size varies in different materials, but nanometric materials are commonly referred to as materials that have at least one dimension less than 100nm (Journal of Kison). Nanotechnology, as the science of working with the smallest particle','Amin Lotfalian Dehkordi and Farideh Keivani (2017). Applications of Nanotechnology for Improving Production Methods and Performance of Agricultural Equipment, Biological Forum â€“ An International Journal 9(2): 102-106. '),(919,'32','A Comparative Study on Avifaunal Diversity, Threats and Conservational Requirements of Wetlands of Uttar Pradesh','Adesh Kumar and Amita Kanaujia','14 BFIJ-44-2017-ADESH KUMAR.pdf','',1,'Wetlands are important bird habitats that provide important livelihood to the local inhabitants. Wetlands occupy a unique position by being one of the most productive and biologically rich ecosystems and yet being one of the most endangered. The wetlands provide ecological and livelihood services. The present study is aimed the distribution, the assessment, the causes and consequences of the loss and helps to maintain a record of water bird to restore and maintain the present condition of wetland. Study is done in Faizabad, Hardoi, Raibareily and Kannauj Districts of Uttar Pradesh during January 2013 to December 2014. Total 18 unprotected wetlands, 7 in Hardoi, 2 in Kannauj, 6 in Faizabad and 3 in Raibaeili districts exposed during study and all are unprotected sites. All these wetlands harbor variety of flora and fauna and can be good ecotourism habitation and biologically have significant value for water birds and their survival. During 2013 the number of species recorded district-wi','Wetlands, Uttar Pradesh, Waterbirds species, and Threats','Wetlands are important bird habitats that provide important livelihood to the local inhabitants. Wetlands occupy a unique position by being one of the most productive and biologically rich ecosystems and yet being one of the most endangered. The wetlands provide ecological and livelihood services. The present study is aimed the distribution, the assessment, the causes and consequences of the loss and helps to maintain a record of water bird to restore and maintain the present condition of wetland. Study is done in Faizabad, Hardoi, Raibareily and Kannauj Districts of Uttar Pradesh during January 2013 to December 2014. Total 18 unprotected wetlands, 7 in Hardoi, 2 in Kannauj, 6 in Faizabad and 3 in Raibaeili districts exposed during study and all are unprotected sites. All these wetlands harbor variety of flora and fauna and can be good ecotourism habitation and biologically have significant value for water birds and their survival. During 2013 the number of species recorded district-wi','Wetlands are important bird habitats that provide important livelihood to the local inhabitants. Wetlands occupy a unique position by being one of the most productive and biologically rich ecosystems and yet being one of the most endangered (Mamta et al., 2015). However, man has caused demolition and deprivation of wetlands worldwide (Moser et al., 1996). The livelihoods of millions of people in India also depend on these ecosystems. Most of the worldâ€™s civilizations have developed and flourished near wetlands. Wetlands have accessible significant economic, ecological and cultural values. Some wetlands are exclusively used by people for food, fodder and building materials. The ecological functions of wetlands turn round around maintenance of water quality, hydrology, flood control, carbon cycle, climate stability, water cycle, shore stabilization, recharge of ground water etc. These values are difficult to assess and quantify economically.\r\nComprehensive diversity of birds is falling','Adesh Kumar and Amita Kanaujia (2017). A Comparative Study on Avifaunal Diversity, Threats and Conservational Requirements of Wetlands of Uttar Pradesh, Biological Forum â€“ An International Journal 9(2): 107-113. '),(920,'32','An Overview of the Factors Affecting the Incidence of Wheat Crop Losses and Providing the Strategies to Reduce it in Iran','Amin Lotfalian Dehkordi and Marziye Ansari Samani','15 BFIJ-42-2017-MARZIYE ANSARI SAMANI.pdf','',1,'Large amounts of currency are annually spent on wheat imports. On the one hand, evidence suggests that wheat and bread wastes are very high in Iran. The controversial issue of the growing food waste process is one of the major challenges for many countries, especially developing countries. In the Third World, politicians and thinkers of scientific assemblies have sought to reduce the losses of agricultural crops in the stages of planting, growing, and harvesting as well as distribution and consumption stages. Overall, the amount of wheat losses in Iran can be divided into several categories: (1) Losses at the planting stage, which is related to the excess amount of seed consumption. This amount is usually about 20% of total seed consumption, which is about 2% of the total waste of wheat production of the country and is mainly due to the lack of proper planting techniques and the application of inappropriate planting techniques, such as using the centrifuge or hand sprayers, lack of pro','Wastes, wheat, crop, agriculture, management, planting, growing, harvesting.','Large amounts of currency are annually spent on wheat imports. On the one hand, evidence suggests that wheat and bread wastes are very high in Iran. The controversial issue of the growing food waste process is one of the major challenges for many countries, especially developing countries. In the Third World, politicians and thinkers of scientific assemblies have sought to reduce the losses of agricultural crops in the stages of planting, growing, and harvesting as well as distribution and consumption stages. Overall, the amount of wheat losses in Iran can be divided into several categories: (1) Losses at the planting stage, which is related to the excess amount of seed consumption. This amount is usually about 20% of total seed consumption, which is about 2% of the total waste of wheat production of the country and is mainly due to the lack of proper planting techniques and the application of inappropriate planting techniques, such as using the centrifuge or hand sprayers, lack of pro','Millions of dollars are annually leaving out of the country for importing materials including:\r\n-Livestock and poultry feed, various types of human, livestock and poultry consumption proteins and their supplements;\r\n-Types of amino acids such as lysine, alanine, citric, lactic, glutamate and others;\r\n-Types of chemicals such as alcohol, furfural, pectin, acetone and so on;\r\n-Variety of essential oils for the consumption of food and health industries; and\r\n-Types of paper and its pulp.\r\nAnd this process takes an increasing rate each year, while the volume of agricultural wastes in the country\'s farms can be considered notably. This issue is important when it comes to recognize that waste and residues of farms in other countries are the main supply source of these materials for export to Iran and similar countries. In all agricultural processes and related industries, secondary products are also produced in addition to the principal products, which include a large volume; and many advanc','Amin Lotfalian Dehkordi and Marziye Ansari Samani (2017). An Overview of the Factors Affecting the Incidence of Wheat Crop Losses and Providing the Strategies to Reduce it in Iran , Biological Forum â€“ An International Journal 9(2): 114-117. '),(921,'33','Impact of ICT on Creativity and Achievement Ability of Perspective Teachers and\r\nStudents of Technical Education','Dr Anu Charaya*, Dr Veena Bana** and Dr Rahul Malhotra***','4 IJAMH-1039-DR ANU CHARAYA Impact of ICT on Creativity and Achievement Ability.pdf','',1,'','','','',''),(922,'34','Influence of Ethanol Leaf Extract of Nerium oleander on the Life- Table Characteristics and Developmental Stages of Paederus fuscipes','Sudhakar Gupta*, Harpreet Singh** and Monika Gupta***','8 IJTAS-18-2017-SUDHAKAR GUPTA.pdf','',1,'','','','',''),(923,'34','Studies on Adsorption Behavior of Fluoride on Native Sand Material','Chetna Sharma*, Amita Mahajan** and Umesh K Garg***','9 IJTAS-20-2017-DR UMESH KUMAR GARG.pdf','',1,'','','','',''),(924,'33','Novel- A Continuum Genre Encompassing a Wide Spectrum of Adaptations and\r\nAppropriations: A Study','Mohd Nageen Rather','5 IJAMH-1036-MOHD NAGEEN RATHER.pdf','',1,'','','','',''),(925,'31','First Record of the polychaete Cossura aciculata\r\nfrom Indian Waters','C. K. Smitha1*, T.V. Raveendran2, Philip Rosamma1,\r\nR. Damodaran1','4_JNBR_6(2)_2017 (2).pdf','',1,'','','','',''),(926,'31','First record of Cotula australis (asteraceae):\r\naddition to the alien flora of Pakistan','A. Shabbir * & Iram Mujahid','5_JNBR_6(2)_2017.pdf','',1,'','','','',''),(927,'31','Molecular detection for adventitious presence of fertile seeds of rapeseed in Ogura-type sterile seed lots','90\r\nMolecular detection for adventitious presence of\r\nfertile seeds of rapeseed in Ogura-type sterile\r\nseed lots\r\nSeyed Hossein Jamali, Maryam Najafian, Saman Sheidaei, and\r\nLeila Sadeghi','6_JNBR_6(2)_2017.pdf','',1,'','','','',''),(928,'31','Study on antibacterial activity of 7-[2-hydroxy- 3(substituted amino)propoxy]-5-hydroxy-2- phenyl-4H-chromen-4-one','Sheetal Shrimal* and Anamika Jain','7_JNBR_6(2)_2017.pdf','',1,'','','','',''),(929,'34','Fluorescence Studies of Novel Pyrazolopyridinone Fused Imidazopyridine Conjugates','Nisha Devi and Virender Singh','Fluorescence Studies of Novel Pyrazolopyridinone Fused Imidazopyridine Conjugates 10.pdf','',1,'','','','',''),(930,'34','Theoretical Analysis of Elastic Properties of ZnX (X = Se and Te) under High Pressure','Arvind Jain*, R K Nagarch** and Sanjay Shah***','Theoretical Analysis of Elastic Properties of ZnX (X Se and Te) under High Pressure 11.pdf','',1,'','','','',''),(931,'34','Analysis of Stress by Integral Transforms Technique in Thermoelastic Hollow Cylinder','D B Kamdi*, Kshitij Shelare** and Surender Yadav***','Analysis of Stress by Integral Transforms Technique in Thermoelastic Hollow Cylinder 12.pdf','',1,'','','','',''),(932,'32','Tricho-taxonomic Studies for Identification of the Rhesus Macaque, Macaca mulatta (Zimmermann, 1780) and Bonnet Macaque, Macaca radiata (E. Geoffroy, 1812) (Primates: Cercopithecidae)','Gaurav Sharma* and M. Kamalakannan**','Word 2007-16 BFIJ-55-2017-GAURAV SHARMA-r.pdf','',1,'The dorsal guard hairs of two common macaque species of India, namely Rhesus macaque, Macaca mulatta (Zimmermann, 1780) and Bonnet macaque, Macaca radiata (E. Geoffroy, 1812) were examined using the optical light microscope for species identification. Significant differences were observed in cuticular and medullary characters of hair between the two species. The photo-micrographs and characters of hairs can be used as a ready-references for species identification of these two species. ','Dorsal guard hair, macaques, morphological and microscopic characters.','The dorsal guard hairs of two common macaque species of India, namely Rhesus macaque, Macaca mulatta (Zimmermann, 1780) and Bonnet macaque, Macaca radiata (E. Geoffroy, 1812) were examined using the optical light microscope for species identification. Significant differences were observed in cuticular and medullary characters of hair between the two species. The photo-micrographs and characters of hairs can be used as a ready-references for species identification of these two species. ','Possession of hair is one of the important characters to distinguish the mammals (Prater 1971). Most of the mammalsâ€™ species are identified through their external morphology i.e. different coat colour, shape and profile of the animal. The mammalian (individual) hair also helps in identification, if external characters are lacking (Brunner & Comman 1974; Koppiker & Sabins 1976; Teerink, 1991). Details of hair structure based on a combination of physical and microscopic characters are helpful in the identification of species (Mayer 1952; Teerink 1991; Sahajibal 2010).\r\nTricho-taxonomic studies of mammalian fauna have been well documented viz., Stains (1958); Brunner & Comman (1974); Moore et al. (1974); Koppiker & Sabins (1976); Teerink (1991); Wallis (1993); Bahuguna et al. (2010) Chakraborty & De (2010), etc. Study on the dorsal guard hair characters of macaque species is limited except a study by Sarkar et al. (2010). \r\nThere are nine species of macaque found in India, of which Maca','Gaurav Sharma and M. Kamalakannan (2017). Tricho-taxonomic Studies for Identification of the Rhesus Macaque, Macaca mulatta (Zimmermann, 1780) and Bonnet Macaque, Macaca radiata (E. Geoffroy, 1812) (Primates: Cercopithecidae) , Biological Forum â€“ An I'),(933,'32','Evaluation of Ascorbic Acid and Thyme Treatments on Physicochemical Changes in Quince Fruit','Bahman Panahi* and Najme Soleimani Dehdivan**','17 BFIJ-50-2017-BAHMAN PANAHI Evaluation of Ascorbic Acid and Thyme Treatments on Physicochemical Changes in Quince Fruit.pdf','',1,'In the present investigation, effect of different levels of ascorbic acid and thyme on storage characteristics of quince fruit cultivar of Isfahan has been studied. A factorial experiment based on a completely randomized design in three replicates and each replicate with five fruits was performed. Fruits were harvested at commercial ripening stage and were sprayed with different concentrations of ascorbic acid (0, 1, 2.5 and 5 ppm) and thyme (0, 25, 50, 100 vol %). Fruits after drying in the open air were covered with wrappings paper, then were placed in cardboard cartons, and were stored for a month between 0Â°C to 5Â°C with relative humidity of 80% to 85%. After storage, weight loss fruit percentage, decay percentage, acidity amount and total soluble solids were measured. The results showed that application of ascorbic acid in compare to thyme improved chemical quality of fruits in all measured parameters, and have not showed any adversely effect on appearance and marketability of th','Fruit changes, Fruit characteristics, Fruit Quality, Medicinal Plant, Storage.','In the present investigation, effect of different levels of ascorbic acid and thyme on storage characteristics of quince fruit cultivar of Isfahan has been studied. A factorial experiment based on a completely randomized design in three replicates and each replicate with five fruits was performed. Fruits were harvested at commercial ripening stage and were sprayed with different concentrations of ascorbic acid (0, 1, 2.5 and 5 ppm) and thyme (0, 25, 50, 100 vol %). Fruits after drying in the open air were covered with wrappings paper, then were placed in cardboard cartons, and were stored for a month between 0Â°C to 5Â°C with relative humidity of 80% to 85%. After storage, weight loss fruit percentage, decay percentage, acidity amount and total soluble solids were measured. The results showed that application of ascorbic acid in compare to thyme improved chemical quality of fruits in all measured parameters, and have not showed any adversely effect on appearance and marketability of th','Quince (Cydonia oblonga Mill.) fruit has a dry flesh and fluffy skin with sour and astringent taste. The fruit has variable dimensions, asymmetric shape and certain adore (Silva et al., 2004). Although such fruit is eaten freshly less, due to its special characteristics, but is used extensively in food industries as different products such as jam, marmalade, jelly, dried fruit and is used to extract essence and pectin. The fruit belongs to Rosaceae family. The appearance is similar to yellow apple or pear (Westwood, 1993). Quince has a high amount of pectin and it has special flavor and adore. Between apple-shaped and pear-shaped cultivars, pear-shaped cultivar is more suitable for industrial applications. Initial ripening index of quince is change of color from green to yellow and complete ripening index is that all skin of the fruit becomes yellow. Fruit quality depends on many factors such as cultivar, weather condition during growth, ripening during harvest and storage condition (V','Bahman Panahi and Najme Soleimani Dehdivan (2017). Evaluation of Ascorbic Acid and Thyme Treatments on Physicochemical Changes in Quince Fruit , Biological Forum â€“ An International Journal 9(2): 122-125. '),(934,'34','Anti-Microbial Effect of Truncated Indolcidin','Swati Saxena*, Dipti Bharti* and Meenakshi Sharma**','Anti-Microbial Effect of Truncated Indolcidin 13.pdf','',1,'','','','',''),(935,'33','Globalization and Consumer Protection of Financial Products','Prof. S.N. Misra* and Sanjaya Kumar Ghadai**','Globalization and Consumer Protection of Financial Products 6.pdf','',1,'','','','',''),(936,'34','Analytical Method Development and Validation of Impurity Profile in Rifapentine','Madhusudhan Reddy Bethi *, ** and Prasanna Bethanamudi *','Analytical Method Development and Validation of Impurity Profile in Rifapentine MADHUSUDHAN REDDY BETHI 14.pdf','',1,'','','','',''),(937,'31','Observations on Ophiocordyceps nutans in the Western Ghats','Kandikere R. Sridhar* & Namera C. Karun','8_JNBR_6(2)_2017.pdf','',1,'','','','',''),(938,'31','First record of Pseudofusicoccum adonsoniae Pavlic, T.I. Burgess and M.J. Wingf. from Ficus krishnae (as endophyte) and new record for \r\nNorth India','Indu Bhushan Prasher and Reena Kumari Dhanda*','9_JNBR_6(2)_2017.pdf','',1,'','','','',''),(939,'31','First report of the order Mantodea from Sundarban biosphere reserve, India','Tushar Kanti Mukherjee1 , Udipta Chakraborti2 , Sankarsan Roy2 ,Olive Biswas2\r\n\r\n, Swapan Kumar Das2\r\n\r\n, Jayeeta Samanta3\r\n,\r\n\r\nBulganin Mitra2*','10_JNBR_6(2)_2017.pdf','',1,'','','','',''),(940,'33','Inflation Targeting and Growth: The Way Forward for India','Ms. Vansitha Agarwal','Inflation Targeting and Growth The Way Forward for India 7.pdf','',1,'','','','',''),(941,'36','Diminution of Noise in Radar Signal by using Adaptive Filter','P Singh* , Dr. A.S. Zadgaokar** and Dr. S.K. Pranjpay***','IJEECE-1066-P SINGH.pdf','',1,'','','','',''),(942,'34','Observation on the TDS and EC Values of Different Water Bodies at Cooch Behar, West Bengal, India','Abdul Miraj* , Supratim Pal** , Sudip Kumar Bhattacharya*** and Kaushik Chakraborty****','Observation on the TDS and EC Values of Different Water Bodies at .pdf','',1,'','','','',''),(943,'36','Investigation of Regenerative Braking System of Several PMSM Motor with Vector Controller Applicability in HEV','Kritika Prakash1 , Aashutosh Khasdeo2 and Amol Barve3','IJEECE-1065-KRITIKA PRAKASH.pdf','',1,'','','','',''),(944,'35','To Study the Structural Properties of Clay and Fly Ash Brick Masonry','Er. Parveen* and Er. Vikram**','IJET-4-2017-PARVEEN.pdf','',1,'','','','',''),(945,'33','Background to the working of local self-government in fifth schedule areas in India','Moti Lal','Background to the working of local self-government in fifth schedule areas in India MOTI LAL 8.pdf','',1,'','','','',''),(946,'33','Ancient Indian Classics: A Perennial Source of Soft Skills to the Students of Indian Universities','C. Venkata Subba Rao','Ancient Indian Classics A Perennial Source of Soft Skills to the Students of Indian Universities 9.pdf','',1,'','','','',''),(947,'34','Structural and Optical Study of Zn doped CuO Nano Particles Synthesized by Sol Gel Method','Parveen Kumar1 , Ashwani Sharma2 and Sanjay Dahiya3','Structural and Optical Study of Zn doped CuO Nano Particles Synthesized by Sol Gel Method 16 PRAVEEN KUMAR.pdf','',1,'','','','',''),(948,'34','A Synoptic Review on Gold Nanoparticles: Green Synthesis and \r\nAntibacterial Application','Rajesh Kumar*, Shashi Kant Shukla*,Anand Pandey**, Afifa Qidwai** and Anupam Dikshit*','A Synoptic Review on Gold Nanoparticles Green Synthesis and Antibacterial Application RAJESH KUMAR.pdf','',1,'','','','',''),(949,'34','Antifungal Activity of Anise Oil against Corticium rolfsii Causing Papaya Fruit Rot','Deepti Srivastava* and Nisha Misra**','Antifungal Activity of Anise Oil against Corticium rolfsii Causing Papaya Fruit Rot 18 Deepti Srivastava.pdf','',1,'','','','',''),(950,'34','Effect of Pseudomonas fluorescens on various Growth Parameters of Lentil (Lens sp.): A Healthy Nutrition for Rural India ','Shashi Kant Shukla','Effect of Pseudomonas fluorescens on various Growth Parameters of Lentil (Lens sp) A Healthy Nutrition for Rural India 19 SHASHI KANT SHUKLA.pdf','',1,'','','','',''),(951,'34','Lichens: A Resource Chest of Herbal Antimicrobial Compounds','Anand Pandey','Lichens-A-Resource-Chest-of-Herbal-Antimicrobial-Compounds-20-ANAND-PANDEY.pdf','',1,'','','','',''),(952,'34','A Common Fixed Point Theorem for Weakly Compatible Maps in Complex Valued Metric Spaces','Rajesh Shrivastava* and Vipin Kumar Sharma**','A Common Fixed Point Theorem for Weakly Compatible Maps in Complex Valued Metric Spaces 21 IJTAS-7-2017-VIPIN KUMAR SHARMA.pdf','',1,'','','','',''),(953,'34','Sol-gel Synthesis of Copper, Silver and Nickel Nanoparticles and Comparison of their Antibacterial activity','Jeevan Jyoti Mohindru* and Umesh K Garg**','Sol-gel Synthesis of Copper Silver and Nickel Nanoparticles and J J MOHINDRU.pdf','',1,'','','','',''),(954,'32','A Note on Population Status of Incarvillea emodi (Royle ex Lindl.) Chatterjee - A Threatened Plant Species','Anup Chandra, Praveen Kumar Verma and Anil Kumar Kewat','A Note on Population Status of Incarvillea emodi (Royle ex Lindl.) Chatterjee - A Threatened Plant Species 18 BFIJ-52-2017-ANUP CHANDRA.pdf','',1,'Study was carried out to assess the population status of threatened species Incarvillea emodi (Royle ex Lindl.) Chatterjee in the Tehri Garhwal areas of Uttarakhand. Line transect method was used to assess the population. It is revealed from the study that population of threatened species is quite low. Only 5 individuals were recorded from the site. Loss of habitat due to different anthropological pressure may be cause of decline of population of the species. Hence, it is imperative to adopt suitable measures for conservation of the species.','Threatened, density, population status ','Study was carried out to assess the population status of threatened species Incarvillea emodi (Royle ex Lindl.) Chatterjee in the Tehri Garhwal areas of Uttarakhand. Line transect method was used to assess the population. It is revealed from the study that population of threatened species is quite low. Only 5 individuals were recorded from the site. Loss of habitat due to different anthropological pressure may be cause of decline of population of the species. Hence, it is imperative to adopt suitable measures for conservation of the species.','Incarvillea genus with 16 species of flowering plants belongs to family Bignoniaceae. It is native to central and eastern Asia. Amongst these species, two (Incarvillea forrestii and Incarvillea altissima) probably have been extinct (Chen et al., 2005). Most of these species grows at high altitudes in the Himalaya and Tibet. Incarvillea emodi (Royle ex Lindl.) Chatterjee is a wild herbaceous plant found mainly at high altitudes of the western Himalayas. Species is distributed in India, Afghanistan, Nepal and Pakistan (Verma et al., 2008). Its vertical distribution ranges from 600-2700 m (Ihtesham et al. 2016). It is locally known as Kaud, Bhoot Kansi, Kadu, Lahsu, Karoliya (Srivastava et al., 2016). It prefers to grow in rock crevices . Species is sparsely found due to erosion of its natural habitat. Species is listed as rare of Himalayan region (Goel and Bhattacharaya, 1983; Singh and Sharma, 2006). \r\nTAXONOMIC DESCRIPTION\r\nPerennial, glabrous or pubescent herbs. Rootstock ','Anup Chandra, Praveen Kumar Verma and Anil Kumar Kewat (2017). A Note on Population Status of Incarvillea emodi (Royle ex Lindl.) Chatterjee - A Threatened Plant Species , Biological Forum â€“ An International Journal 9(2): 126-128. '),(955,'32','Limnological Studies with reference to Phytoplankton Diversity in Ponds of Semi arid zone of Western Uttar Pradesh','Shazia Ansari and Santosh Kumar Singh','Limnological Studies with reference to Phytoplankton Diversity in Ponds of Semi arid zone of Western Uttar Pradesh 19 SHAZIA ANSARI.pdf','',1,'Study of two ponds of semiarid zone of Western Uttar Pradesh was carried out in Aligarh to determine its limnology, in relation to diversity of phytoplankton population. Main water supply is rainwater and surface runoff from surrounding areas. Species diversity ranged from 3.058 (December, 2006) to 3.275 (February, 2007) in Pond I and 3.118 (May, 2007) to 3.335 (February, 2007) in Pond II. Species Evenness ranged from 0.906 (November, 2006) to 0.944 (February, 2007) in Pond I and 0.926 (May, 2007) to 0.945 (February, 2007) in Pond II. In the present study it was noted that no single environmental factor was responsible for the production of phytoplankton organisms but a number of factors acted together to bring the cumulative effect. Most of the phytoplankton were found to flourish at mesophytic environment. Growth of phytoplankton was directly or indirectly dependent upon the concentration of nutrients in both the ponds as evident by the study.','Diversity, Phytoplankton, Minerals.','In the present study it was noted that no single environmental factor was responsible for the production of phytoplankton organisms but a number of factors acted together to bring the cumulative effect. Most of the phytoplankton were found to flourish at mesophytic environment. Growth of phytoplankton was directly or indirectly dependent upon the concentration of nutrients in both the ponds as evident by the study. In pond I, as the water temperature increased so the diversity of phytoplankton also increased whereas the diversity was observed to be decreasing in Pond II with water temperature. As the pH increased so does the phytoplankton diversity that is the positive correlation in Pond II while negative in Pond I. With PO4-P positive correlation was found in Pond I while negative in Pond II. With NO3-N correlation was found to be negative in in both the Ponds which indicates that as the concentration of NO3-N increased the it is utilized by phytoplankton for their growth. NO2-Ncorre','A study was carried out to determine the effect of limnological factors on the diversity of phytoplankton population of two ponds. As we all know that phytoplankton are important for trophic dynamics as they are the chief primary producers of aquatic environment (Wetzel, 1975) which fix solar energy by the process of photosynthesis assimilating carbon-dioxide and water to produce carbohydrates. They serve as important links between the abiotic factors and the biota in the aquatic system (Saha et al., 2000). Diversity is a concept that refers to the range of variations or differences among some set of entities. Biological diversity thus refers to the variety within the living world. Biodiversity is very commonly used as a synonym of species diversity. Phytoplankton has great importance from ecological point of view (Kumar and Gupta, 2002). \r\nMATERIALS AND METHODS\r\nThe ponds, Pond I and Pond II were seasonal ponds receiving surface runoff and sewage from the surrounding areas. They were ','Shazia Ansari and Santosh Kumar Singh (2017). Limnological Studies with reference to Phytoplankton Diversity in Ponds of Semi arid zone of Western Uttar Pradesh , Biological Forum â€“ An International Journal 9(2): 129-147. '),(956,'33','Education for Sustainability: A Paradigm for Thinking and Doing','Chintal Siva Sankar','Education for Sustainability A Paradigm for Thinking and Doing 10.pdf','',1,'','','','',''),(957,'33','Industrial Relation in Jammu and Kashmir: A Case of Cement Industry','Archana Bhat* and Dr. Ravikant Swami**','Industrial Relation in Jammu and Kashmir A Case of Cement Industry ARCHANA BHAT 11.pdf','',1,'','','','',''),(958,'33','Corruption: The Bane of India','Dr. R. Prabhakar Rao','Corruption The Bane of India IJAMH-1051-DR. R. PRABHAKAR RAO.pdf','',1,'','','','',''),(959,'21','Impact of Land use Change on Precipitation and Temperature Trends in an Arid Environments','Mehdi Zarei*, Reza Ghazavi**, Abbasali Vali*** and Khodayar Abdollahi****','BFIJ-1255 MEHDI ZAREI.pdf','',1,'Precipitation and temperature are the major variables in climatological and hydrological systems, especially in arid regions. The main aim of this study was to investigate the trend of precipitation and temperature of an arid area in the monthly and annual time scales. The possible relation of these climate change with anthropogenic behavior was also investigated. Observational data for temperature (12 stations) and precipitation (22 stations) have been obtained from Iran Water Resource Management Company during 1986-2012. The non-parametric method and remote sensing (RS) technology was used to analyze the possibility effects of land use and climate change on precipitation and temperature trends. The trends in precipitation and temperature were detected using Man-Kendall and Spearman\'s Rho tests. The LULC maps for the study area were produced using remote sensing and satellite images for the years of 1987 and 2013. The results of this study indicate that monthly precipitation had an in','Precipitation, Temperature, Nonparametric trend tests, Land use change, Climate change','Trends in temperature and precipitation, also variations in land-use change were analyzed in an arid and semi-arid region of Iran. The results revealed increasing and decreasing trends in precipitation at different temporal scales, whereas only increasing trend in temperature were found at a monthly time scale. A positive significant trends in annual Tmax at Mashhad, Torogh, Bar, Sarakhs, Yengeje and Shamkhal stations were observed (P< 0.05). According to results, increasing in Tmax were more notable than those in Tmin time series. Results of land use change detection analysis showed an increase in agricultural irrigated land and residential (especially due to urbanization), whereas rangeland area was decreased significantly. As a result of urbanization in the study area, increasing trends in annual Tmax were noted in the stations located in the area that experienced more urbanization development. Results indicated that some parts of vegetated area that were converted to bare land have','Climate change is known as the major environmental issue in the world (IPCC. 2007; Qian Cao et al, 2016). In order to evaluate the global warming and develop climate impact researches, trend detection has been found as an interesting subject for both climatological and hydrological studies. Therefore, trend detection researches in hydrological and climatological characteristics such as precipitation, temperature, runoff, evaporation and ground water are used to investigate climate change and global warming. Nowadays, better understanding of trend analysis of long-term temperature and precipitation has been the main topic of climate and water resources researchers (Safari 2012). \r\nTemperature and precipitation are fundamental elements of climate and changes in their pattern can affect climatology and hydrology regimes (Gunawardhana and So, 2011). Both of them are highly variable temporarily and spatially at local, regional and global scales, so the evaluation of their trends is importa','Mehdi Zarei, Reza Ghazavi, Abbasali Vali and Khodayar Abdollahi (2017). Impact of Land use Change on Precipitation and Temperature Trends in an Arid Environments . Biological Forum â€“ An International Journal 9(1): 218-229. '),(960,'34','Coupled Soft Fixed Point Theorems in Partially Ordered Soft Metric Space','Ramakant Bhardwaj*, Shinjani Solanki **','Coupled Soft Fixed Point Theorems in Partially Ordered Soft Metric Space 23 RAMAKANT BHARDWAJ-REVISED.pdf','',1,'','','','',''),(961,'34','Euphorbia clarkeana Hook. f.: New Addition to the Flora of Allahabad District, Uttar Pradesh, India','Satya Narain* and Renu**','Euphorbia clarkeana Hook. f. New Addition to the Flora of Allahabad District Uttar Pradesh India SATYA NARAYAN AND REENU.pdf','',1,'','','','',''),(962,'33','A Study of Changing Consumer Behavior for Mobile Banking Services in India','A S Suresh* and Trilok Singh**','A Study of Changing Consumer Behavior for Mobile Banking Services in India 13 SURESH A S.pdf','',1,'','','','',''),(963,'33','Teacher as Reflective Practitioner: Best Practices in Classroom Management','Dr. C. Siva Sankar','Teacher as Reflective Practitioner Best Practices in Classroom Management 14 SIVA SANKAR.pdf','',1,'','','','',''),(964,'33','Reflection of Nature in R. N. Tagoreâ€™s Short Stories','Ms. Bhabani Saharia','Reflection of Nature in R. N. Tagoreâ€™s Short Stories 15 BHABANI SHARMA.pdf','',1,'','','','',''),(965,'32','First record of Echinochasmus prakashi Gupta and Singh, 1988 (Digenea: Echinostomatidae) in Nycticorax nycticorax (Pelecaniformes: Ardeidae) From Hamal Lake, Sindh, Pakistan','Gada Hussain Brohi* , Nadir Ali Birmani**, Saima Naz** and Muhammad Moosa Abro***','First record of Echinochasmus prakashi Gupta and Singh 1988 (Digenea Echinostomatidae) in Nycticorax nycticorax (Pelecaniformes Ardeidae) From Hamal Lake Sindh Pakistan .pdf','',1,'The main aim of this paper is to describe first record of Echinochasmus prakashi Gupta & Singh, 1988 which was recorded during the study on biodiversity of helminths of Nycticorax nycticorax from Hamal Lake, Sindh, Pakistan. Helminthological examination revealed a large number of specimens of genus Echinochasmus found in intestine of the host, of which 05 identified as Echinochasmus prakashi Gupta & Singh, 1988. They resemble with it in having spinose and medium sized body, oral sucker terminal, head collar reniform with single row of 22 spines, shape and position of cirrus pouch, testes, ovary and vitellaria. Echinochasmus prakashi is recorded first time from Nycticorax nycticorax and Pakistan is new locality for this species.','Avian trematode, Echinochasmus prakashi, Nycticorax nycticorax, Hamal Lake, Sindh, Pakistan.','Echinochasmus prakishi is recoreded for the first time from Hamal Lake, Sindh, Pakistan and the host bird Nycticorax nycticorax. It is identified on the basis of 22 head collar spines, shape and position of organs. Present paper will be helpful in further study on present host, parasite and locality.\r\n \r\n','Genus Echinochasmus Dietz, 1909 is found throughout the world in birds of family Podicipedidae, Ciconiidae, Ardeidae, Accipitridae, and Anatidae. It contains a number of species that are transmitted to human as food borne trematodes. It transmits infection by way of the ingestion of metacercarial cyst by humans with raw or improperly cooked freshwater fish. Human ingesting cercariae of this species of Echinostome may develop an intestinal trematodiasis referred to as Echinochasmiasis (Rim, 1982; Chai and Lee, 2002 and Ujan et al., 2014).\r\nIn Pakistan very little work has been done on trematode parasites of birds. Species of genus Echinochasmus Dietz, 1909 reported from Pakistan by Ujan et al., 2014, Dharejo et al., 2010, Channa et al., 2009, Dharejo et al., 2007 and Bhutta and Khan, 1975. These were collected from the Bank Myna Acridotheres ginginianus, House Sparrow Passer domesticus, Pond Heron Ardeola grayii and Paddy Bird Ardeola gyayii. None of the researchers studied Black C','Gada Hussain Brohi , Nadir Ali Birmani, Saima Naz and Muhammad Moosa Abro (2017). First record of Echinochasmus prakashi Gupta and Singh, 1988 (Digenea: Echinostomatidae) in Nycticorax nycticorax (Pelecaniformes: Ardeidae) From Hamal Lake, Sindh, Pakista'),(966,'32','The Effects of Water Deficit Stress, Cold Shock and Salicylic Acid on Maize Hybrids Growth Parameters','Mohsen Tarighaleslami*, Mohammad Kafi*, Ahmad Nezami* and Reza Zarghami**','The Effects of Water Deficit Stress Cold Shock and Salicylic Acid on Maize Hybrids Growth Parameters .pdf','',1,'In order to evaluate the effects of cold and water deficit stress as well as salicylic acid foliar application on growth parameters of maize hybrids an experiment was conducted at the Faculty of Agriculture, Ferdowsi University of Mashhad, Iran in 2014 and 2015. The results revealed that in both years there was no difference between cold stressed and none stressed plants in terms of growth parameters. In all hybrids, the crop growth rate and dry matter accumulation significantly decreased through reducing leaf expansion caused by severe water deficit stress (50% of water requirement). The maximum leaf area index (3.48) was found in single cross 704, grown under full irrigation condition. Stress induction at seedling and fast growing stages, increased crop growth rate and relative growth rate at the end of growing period. Salicylic acid application increased leaf area and dry matter production and could improve growth parameters under stress conditions. ','Maize, Crop growth rate, Net assimilation rate, Leaf area index, Dry matter','Early seed sowing and cold stress showed no negative effects on growth parameters. Early sowing improved growth parameters under cold stress conditions. Generally, we can conclude that water deficit stress, especially during reproductive stage, had negative effects on growth parameters and finally seed yield. Reduction in leaf number and leaf area due to water deficit stress is a result of reduced cell division. In general, according to the results, it seems that application of salicylic acid could improve growth parameters in maize and increase water deficit tolerance. ','Maize (Zea mays L.) commonly known as corn, is a grain plant belonging to the Poaceae family. Maize has a relatively short growth period; however, it is recognized as a high yield crop. Maize is also known as the second crop in the word in terms of production per cultivation area after wheat and the third crop in the world in terms of cultivation area after wheat and rice (FAO, 2014). Maize cultivation area in Iran is increasing over the years. In 2014, grain maize and forage maize covered an area of thousand hectares and 203 thousand hectares, respectively and produced 1.7 million ton grain and 9.8 million ton forage. According to the statistics (2014), maize cultivation area and production in Razavi Khorasan Province, located in Northeast of Iran, were reported as 16.5,000 hectare and 762.7 ton, respectively. Maize is native to tropical regions so it is a cold sensitive plant. Nevertheless, early seed sowing in spring conserves the crop against pests and diseases as well as heat wave','Mohsen Tarighaleslami, Mohammad Kafi, Ahmad Nezami and Reza Zarghami (2017). The Effects of Water Deficit Stress, Cold Shock and Salicylic Acid on Maize Hybrids Growth Parameters . Biological Forum â€“ An International Journal 9(2): 155-171. '),(967,'33','Impact of Shallow Tube Well Irrigation on Cropping Intensity â€“A Case Study of Koch Bihar District, West Bengal','Bappa Sarkar* and Ranjan Roy**','Impact of Shallow Tube Well Irrigation on Cropping Intensity_A Case Study of Koch Bihar District West Bengal 16 BAPA SARKAR 1049.pdf','',1,'','','','',''),(968,'36','Impact of Time- Delay on Wide-Area PSS for Stability Enhancement of Interconnected Power System','Anita Yadav* and Kumar Prabhakar**','IJEECE-1067 ANITA YADAV.pdf','',1,'','','','',''),(969,'32','Studies on the Selected Economically Important Pyraloidea of Punjab, India','Deepinderpal Singh*, H.S. Rose** and P.C. Pathania***','Studies on the Selected Economically Important Pyraloidea of Punjab India 22 DEEPINDERPAL SINGH ROSE AND PATHANIA.pdf','',1,'Lepidoptera being a second largest order of class Insecta having about forty seven super families. Out of these the super family Pyraloidea ranked as third largest with most assorted life history adaptations. To study this varied life, several surveys were conducted in different agricultural fields of Punjab in pre-monsoon, monsoon and post-monsoon periods during 2005-10. In this paper, about fifteen economically important species of super family Pyraloidea have been studied including their life history aspects and host.','moth, pyraloidea, economic, pyralidae, crambidae','Lepidoptera being a second largest order of class Insecta having about forty seven super families. Out of these the super family Pyraloidea ranked as third largest with most assorted life history adaptations. To study this varied life, several surveys were conducted in different agricultural fields of Punjab in pre-monsoon, monsoon and post-monsoon periods during 2005-10. In this paper, about fifteen economically important species of super family Pyraloidea have been studied including their life history aspects and host.','The super family Pyraloidea comprises more than 15,576 described species worldwide (Nieukerken et al. 2011), and perhaps lot more yet to be described. Among Lepidoptera, pyraloids encompasses varied life history adaptations. Due to their diverse feeding habits, many species noticed to be feed internally or externally on plants as leaf rollers, webbers, leaf miners, borers, root feeders, and some as seed feeders in their imago stage. Ant nests are also noticed to be infested by some species as parasite (Wurthiinae spp.), predate upon scale insects (Phycitinae spp.), or survive in the nests of bees (Galleriinae spp.). Certain Phycitinae and Pyralinae caterpillar are adapted to very rough environments and feed on stored food commodities. With such a range of living habits, pyraloids become a supreme group for biodiversity studies (Schulze, 2000; Nuss, 2000). The present studies deals with the fifteen such economically important species which are enlisted as under mentioned.\r\nMATERIAL AND ','Deepinderpal Singh, H.S. Rose and P.C. Pathania (2017). Studies on the Selected Economically Important Pyraloidea of Punjab, India. Biological Forum â€“ An International Journal 9(2): 172-176. '),(970,'32','Impacts of Climate Variation and Groundwater Declination on Groundwater Quality in an Arid Environment','Reza Ghazavi* and Ali Aleboali**','Impacts of Climate Variation and Groundwater Declination on Groundwater Quality in an Arid Environment 23 REZA GHAZAVI & ALI.pdf','',1,'In arid and semi-arid region, rainfall occurred in a short time with high intensity and consequently a large amount of rainfall convert to runoff. In these areas, evapotranspiration is high and a significant volumes of surface water lose through evapotranspiration. In such area, groundwater is the main source of fresh water for agricultural, industrial and other human activities. But climate change and over extraction should affect groundwater quality and quantity. The main aim of this study is to investigate the impacts of climate variation and over extraction of groundwater on temporal and spatial variation of groundwater quality in Kashan aquifer located in the center of Iran. For this propose, the meteorological drought index (SPI) and groundwater drought index (GRI) was calculated for 23 years (1991-2015). The relationship between groundwater quality, SPI and GRI was investigated via Pierson correlation method. According to results, for the studied period, groundwater level decrea','Climate Change, Over extraction, Groundwater quality, Drought index, Arid environment ','The results of this study indicate that groundwater quality and quantity souled affect via meteorological drought and water extraction for agricultural, industrial and other human activity. According to results, the effect of groundwater extraction is more important than meteorological drought. Annual groundwater extraction in the study area increased from 0.17 million cubic meter in 1980 to 2.5 million cubic meter in 2013. In Iran, more than 92% of re-new able water use in agricultural activity. Therefore, it is important that manage agricultural water utilization.','Groundwater is the major freshwater sources in the hydrological cycle of arid and semi-arid area (Ghazavi et al., 2010). During droughts, groundwater is the main and in some case is the only source of fresh water for agricultural, industrial and other human activities. In the recent years, the over extraction of groundwater for human consumption and agricultural activity lead to groundwater depressing in most parts of the area located in arid and semi- arid environment (Treidel et al., 2012; Ghazavi et al, 2016; Wada et al., 2010). \r\nIt is well recognized that climate change is also a regional and world wiled problem that affected groundwater resources (Treidel et al., 2012; Lee et al., 2014; Zhang et al., 2016). The studies about the climate change indicate that water resource management policies need to include the effects of global climate change for correctly predict of water supplies (Woldeamlak et al., 2007; Ying et al., 2015). \r\nThe prediction of climate change in many parts of ','Reza Ghazavi and Ali Aleboali (2017). Impacts of Climate Variation and Groundwater Declination on Groundwater Quality in an Arid Environment .Biological Forum â€“ An International Journal 9(2):177-184. '),(972,'34','Effect of Pseudomonas fluorescens on various Growth Parameters of\r\nLentil (Lens sp.): A Healthy Nutrition for Rural India','Shashi Kant Shukla','19-Effect-of-Pseudomonas-fluorescens-on-various-Growth-Parameters-of-Lentil-(Lens-sp.)-A-Healthy-Nutrition-for-Rural-India-19-SHASHI-KANT-SHUKLA.pdf','',0,'','','','',''),(973,'34','Lichens: A Resource Chest of Herbal Antimicrobial Compounds','Anand Pandey','20-Lichens-A-Resource-Chest-of-Herbal-Antimicrobial-Compounds-20-ANAND-PANDEY.pdf','',0,'','','','',''),(974,'34','Structural and Defect State analysis of ZnO nanoparticles','Surajit Mandal','25-Structural-and-Defect-State-analysis-of-ZnO-nanoparticles-25-SURAJIT-MANDAL.pdf','',1,'','','','',''),(975,'34','Depositional Mechanism as Revealed from Grain size Measures of\r\nRameswaram Coast, Ramanathapuram District, Tamil Nadu, India','Debashish Padhi*, S.R. Singarasubramanaian**, Supriya Panda*** and S. Venkatesan****','26-Depositional-Mechanism-as-Revealed-from-Grain-size-Measures-of-Rameswaram-Coast-Ramanathapuram-District-Tamil-Nadu-India-26-DEBASHISH-PADHI.pdf','',1,'','','','',''),(976,'33','Emerging Pattern of Urbanization and Economic Development in Madhya Pradesh','Dr. Lokesh Shrivastava D. Litt, and Rajneesh Kumar','Emerging Pattern of Urbanization and Economic Development in Madhya Pradesh Dr. Lokesh Shrivastava.pdf','',1,'','','','',''),(977,'36','Analysis of Equalization in MIMO System with Optimal Ordering in Rayleigh flat fading channel','Mahak Shakya* and Anas Iqbal**','IJEECE-1069-MAHAK SHAKYA.pdf','',1,'','','','',''),(978,'33','Status of Historical Monuments: A Case Study of Pulwama District of Jammu and\r\nKashmir','Sayar Ahmad Dar and A. S. Arya','18-Status-of-Historical-Monuments-A-Case-Study-of-Pulwama-District-of-Jammu-and-Kashmir.pdf','',1,'','','','',''),(979,'33','â€œVulnerability of Aged people and the Role of Human Resource Management in Indiaâ€','Rajiv Sharma* and Dr. Khajan Singh**','19-â€œVulnerability-of-Aged-people-and-the-Role-of-Human-Resource-Management-in-Indiaâ€-19-RAJIV-SHARMA.pdf','',1,'','','','',''),(980,'33','Saudi Dates Industry in KSA: A Contribution to Economy','Dr. Mohammad Tariq Intezar','20-Saudi-Dates-Industry-in-KSA-A -Contribution-to-Economy-20-DR-MOHAMMAD-TARIQ-INTEZAR.pdf','',1,'','','','',''),(981,'33','Dasa Literature: Culture, Conflict and Co-ordination','Dr. Venkatagiri Dalavai','21-Dasa-Literature-Culture-Conflict-and-Co-ordination-21-DR-VENKATAGIRI-DALAVAI.pdf','',1,'','','','',''),(982,'33','Management of Education for Deepening Democracy in India','Alex P. Joseph','22-Management-of-Education-for -Deepening-Democracy-in-India-22-ALEX P.pdf','',1,'','','','',''),(985,'32','Evaluation of Changes in some Physical and Chemical Properties of\r\nSyrian Honey, Affecting Honey Crystallization due to the Different\r\nGeographical Sites','Ebraheem Al-Jouri*, Nouraldin Daher-Hjaij*, Raghdan Alkattea**, Kassem alsayed Mahmoud*** and Al-Muthanna Saffan****','Evaluation of Changes in some Physical and Chemical Properties of Syrian Honey Affecting Honey Crystallization due to the Different Geographical Sites 24.pdf','',1,'This paper aimed to evaluate some physical and chemical properties of Syrian honey that affect honey crystallization. 44 Samples of honey were collected after harvesting from different Syrian regions. All were produced by the local honey bee colonies Apis mellifera syriaca L. The results proved that all samples were in the range of the Syrian and European Codex Standards. The lowest moisture content was found in the eastern region samples where it reached around 12.43%. pH value ranged between 3.74 and 5.74 in all samples. Sucrose did not exceed 3.85%. The average of glucose to fructose reached 0.96% in the eastern region honey, whereas it reached 1.21% and 1.1% in the southern and middle regions respectively. This refers that honey of the eastern region has the highest trend to crystallization. As a result, Syrian honey in general is susceptible to crystallization with differences according to geographical sites and nectar sources.','Syrian honey, physical and chemical properties, crystallization','The results of this paper demonstrate that the geographical site has a significant effect on the chemical and physical properties of the Syrian honey, especially for the ratio of fructose and water content. \r\nThis is due to the differences of the environmental conditions and the dominated nectar plants in each region, with the emphasis that all physical and chemical properties are conforming to the Syrian and European Standards and the Codex, which can reflect the high quality of the Syrian honey. Crystallization is a natural property for all types of the Syrian honey and at all geographical sites, in particular for the honey of the eastern region, which is the most tending to crystallize. Crystallization of the honey coming from the southern and central region is often delayed due to the higher fructose/glucose ratio. \r\n','Syrian honey is characterized by its wide varieties due to the wide botanical variation in Syria. The nectar sources for honeybee foragers differ according to the geographical sites. This includes forest and orchard trees such as Eucalyptus-Citrus trees- stone fruit trees, crops like cotton - sunflower - anise- black seeds Nigella sativa, besides a number of medical plants such as Thyme-caper Capparis spinose-Artemisia, and wild thorn plants like camelthorn Alhagi maurorum and the yellow star-thistle Centaurea solstitialis. What can be considered as a good factor for the quality of Syrian honey is its very low content of pesticides residues due to the high prices of pesticides that most of the farmers cannot afford applying them on their crops (Fert, 2004). The honey production in Syria reached 2900 tons (AOAD, 2015)). \r\nNatural honey is one of the most sought products due to its unique nutritional and medical properties resulting from the different substances composing the honey (Buba','Ebraheem Al-Jouri, Nouraldin Daher-Hjaij, Raghdan Alkattea, Kassem alsayed Mahmoud and Al-Muthanna Saffan. (2017). Evaluation of Changes in some Physical and Chemical Properties of\r\nSyrian Honey, Affecting Honey Crystallization due to the Different\r\nGeogr'),(986,'32','Assessing the Impact of Anthropogenic Activities on the Relative\r\nDensity of Macroinvertebrates in a Hill Stream Located in Western\r\nHimalaya, District Solan, Himachal Pradesh, India','Sharanjeet Kaur Kahlon and J.M. Julka','Assessing the Impact of Anthropogenic Activities on the Relative Density of Macroinvertebrates in a Hill Stream Located in Western Himalaya District Solan Himachal Pradesh India 25 SHARANJEET KAUR.pdf','',1,'Macroinvertebrates act as bioindicators and can be used for biomonitoring freshwater aquatic habitats. Therefore, the present study has been conducted to study the variations in relative densities of macroinvertebrates on moving from a pristine to anthropogenically impacted area in three selected study sites i.e. Barog, Bajhol and Deothal in District Solan, Himachal Pradesh and monthly sampling was done during August, 2014 to July, 2016. Maximum dipterans were recorded from Bajhol sampling site, which received agriculture runoff, industrial effluents and domestic sewage and their presence indicated pollution at this site. The least polluted site was Barog sampling site as indicated by maximum density of ephemeropterans. Deothal sampling site harboured less relative density of dipteran and ephemeropteran individuals as compared to other two study sites, but had maximum density of trichopterans. ','Macroinvertebrates, hill streams, anthropogenic, density, Western Himalaya, India.','This study has provided a broad perspective of macroinvertebrate density of a perennial stream flowing in the vicinity of Solan town in Himachal Pradesh and western Himalayas, constituent of Himalayan Biodiversity Hotspot. The present study reveals that high relative density of dipterans at Bajhol indicates pollution at this site as compared to Barog and Bajhol. The least polluted site was Barog as indicated by maximum density of ephemeropterans. Deothal sampling site harboured less relative density of dipteran and ephemeropteran individuals as compared to other two study sites, but had maximum density of trichopterans. Biomonitoring is a tool which should be used to study the environmental condition of water bodies. Proper measurements should be taken for the abatement of pollution. ','Anthropogenic activities have greatly affected freshwater biodiversity habitats, which have perturbed the ecological balance and resulted in loss of aquatic biodiversity (Jewitt, 2002; Hassan et al., 2005). Freshwater bodies such as streams and rivers, which support high species diversity and density of biota are among the most endangered ecosystems worldwide (Armitage et al., 1983). The health of a stream can be determined using macroinvertebrates as they act as bio indicators and play an important role in the food chains of aquatic systems (Bode and Novak, 1995). The overall health of a stream is linked to the density, diversity, distribution and population of its benthic macroinvertebrates (Callisto et al., 2007). The present study was hence carried to study the variations in relative densities of macroinvertebrates on moving from a pristine to anthropogenically impacted area.\r\nMATERIALS AND METHODS\r\nA. Study area\r\nThe present study was carried out on a stream of the Giri watershed.','Sharanjeet Kaur Kahlon and J.M. Julka (2017). Assessing the Impact of Anthropogenic Activities on the Relative\r\nDensity of Macroinvertebrates in a Hill Stream Located in Western\r\nHimalaya, District Solan, Himachal Pradesh, India , Biological Forum â€“ An'),(987,'34','Neutrophil Gelatinase-Associated Lipocalin as an Early Marker of Acute\r\nKidney Injury in Snake Bites Victims','Subramanian Senthilkumaran* ,**, Dharmar Manimaran*, Ponniah Thirumalaikolundusubramanian*** and Namasivayam Elangovan*','27-Neutrophil-Gelatinase-Associated-Lipocalin-as-a- Early-Marker-of-Acute-Kidney-Injury-in-Snake-Bites-Victims-27.pdf','',1,'','','','',''),(988,'34','Microsatellite Markers Reveals Male-specific DNA Sequences in\r\nCalamus thwaitesii Becc., an Important Economic Rattan Palm','Binoy Kurian and K. K. Sabu','28 Microsatellite Markers Reveals Male-specific DNA Sequences in Calamus thwaitesii Becc an Important Economic Rattan Palm 28 BINOY KURIAN.pdf','',1,'','','','',''),(990,'34','Detecting Genotoxicity of Mercury Chloride in Freshwater Bivalve\r\nLamellidens corrianus using Comet Assay','Urmila D. Mestry and Dr. Tanaji S. Bhosale','29-Detecting-Genotoxicity-of-Mercury-Chloride-in-Freshwater-Bivalve-Lamellidens-corrianus-using-Comet-Assay-29-URMILA-D.pdf','',1,'','','','',''),(991,'32','A new species of genus Ganeo Klein, 1905 collected from Indus Valley Bullfrog Hoplobatrachus tigerinus (Anura: Dicroglossidae) of District Umerkot, Sindh, Pakistan','Attia Bushra, Nadir Ali Birmani, Ali Murtaza Dharejo and Muhammad Munif Khan \r\nand Saeeda Anjum Buriro','A new species of genus Ganeo Klein 1905 collected from Indus Valley Bullfrog Hoplobatrachus tigerinus Anura Dicroglossidae of District Umerkot Sindh Pakistan 27 ATTIA BUSHRA.pdf','',1,'A survey was conducted on the helminth parasites of Indus Valley Bullfrog Hoplobatrachus tigerinus of district Umerkot, Sindh, Pakistan. A total of 18 hosts were collected from different aquatic habitats and examined for the presence of helminth parasites. During examination of gut contents and visceral organs, three trematodes belonging to genus Ganeo Klein, 1905 were recovered from small intestine and identified as theGaneo kabeeri n.sp. Present species differs from its congeners on the basis of the spinose body slightly tapering anteriorly; subterminal oral sucker larger than ventral sucker; shape of cirrus sac; shape and arrangement of testes; bilobed ovary attached with ventral sucker and posterior testis; distribution and extension of vitellaria; shape and extension of ceca and egg size. ','Hoplobatrachus tigerinus,Trematode, Ganeo kabeeri, Sindh Pakistan','A survey was conducted on the helminth parasites of Indus Valley Bullfrog Hoplobatrachus tigerinus of district Umerkot, Sindh, Pakistan. A total of 18 hosts were collected from different aquatic habitats and examined for the presence of helminth parasites. During examination of gut contents and visceral organs, three trematodes belonging to genus Ganeo Klein, 1905 were recovered from small intestine and identified as theGaneo kabeeri n.sp. Present species differs from its congeners on the basis of the spinose body slightly tapering anteriorly; subterminal oral sucker larger than ventral sucker; shape of cirrus sac; shape and arrangement of testes; bilobed ovary attached with ventral sucker and posterior testis; distribution and extension of vitellaria; shape and extension of ceca and egg size. ','Klein 1905 proposed the genus Ganeo with G. glottoides as the type species obtained from a Frog, Rana hexadactyla from India. He tentatively placed this genus under subfamily Pleurogenetinae Looss (1899). Odhner (1911) discussed its systematic position and assigned this genus to the subfamily Pleurogenetinae of the family Lecithodendriidae. \r\nTrematodes of genus Ganeo reported from Pakistan are; Ganeo gastricus (Sarivastava,1933) Bilqees and Kaikobad, 1976; Farooq and Khan, 1994 from R.cyanophlyctis and R. tigrina. Ganeo kumaonensis (Pande, 1937) Bhutta and Khan,1975 from Rana tigrina. Ganeo macrocotyle (Bilqees and Kaikobad, 1976) Farooq and khan 1994 from Rana tigrina. G. sirinagarensis (Kaw,1951) Bilqees and Kaikobad, 1976 from R. cyanophlyctis and G. tigrina (Mehra and Negi,1928) Bilqees and Kaikobad, 1976 Farooq and Khan, 1994 from R. tigerina.Ganeo karachiensis Khatoon et al., 2011, Ganeo bicaudatum Khatoon et al., 2012. Ganeo elongatum Khatoon et al., 2012, G. jonesae, N. Khat','Attia Bushra, Nadir Ali Birmani, Ali Murtaza Dharejo and Muhammad Munif Khan and Saeeda Anjum Buriro. (2017). A new species of genus Ganeo Klein, 1905 collected from Indus Valley Bullfrog Hoplobatrachus tigerinus (Anura: Dicroglossidae) of District Ume'),(992,'32','Screening of Canola (Brassica napus L.) Genotypes for Salt Tolerance Based on Early Growth Stage','Irandokht Mansoori*, Hamid Najafe-Zarrini**, Nadali Babaean Jelodar*** and Ali Pakdin****','Screening of Canola Brassica napus L Genotypes for Salt Tolerance Based on Early Growth Stage 28 I MANSOORI.pdf','',1,'Soil salinity is a serious constrain to crop production in many areas of the world. In order to study the salinity stress effects resulted from sodium chloride on germination, vegetative growth in 100 rapeseed genotypes, an experiments was carried out in germinator at the Research Station of Sari Agricultural Sciences and natural Resources University. A factorial experiment based on completely randomized design with 3 replications was considered for evaluation of 300 treatments. The first factor of the experiment was 100 canola genotypes to identify genotypes with high or low level of tolerance to salt stress for further studies, and the second factor was salinity stress levels: 0, 6 and 12 dsm-1NaCl. The results showed that the principal components of measured parameters: germination percentage (GP), radicle length (RL) and plumule (stem) length (SL) and plumule fresh weight (PFW) of plumule dry weight (PDW) and radicle dry weight (RDW) was using principal component analysis that dete','Genotypes, Germination, plumule length, Root weight, Salinity','One of the most important constraints to agricultural production in world is abiotic stress conditions prevailing in the environment. Salinity is one of the serious problem especially in the arid and semi-arid region. Furthermore use of tolerant plant in this region is important. The results showed that germination and plant early growth significantly affected by salinity. Plants in response to salinity divided into two, susceptible and tolerated groups. High germination percentage and vigorous seedling growth defines the tolerant genotypes. So the early growth of the plants is effective in the next growth of the plants, it is better to screen for sensitive and tolerant genotypes in the early stages of growth. On the basis of the above findings, it is concluded that germination, emergence, root and shot fresh/dry weight are significant screening criteria for salt tolerance in canola genotypes','Canola (Brassica napus L.) is considered as one of the most important oil seed crops all over the world, and even more in Iran, that its production has been notably extended in recent years. Canola seeds contains about 40-50 % oil of high quality for human consumption and the remaining is a high protein meal for livestock feed. Canola oil has the best fatty acid profile of any edible oil. It is characterized by less than 1 % Erucic acid and higher percent of oleic which has been shown to reduce serum cholesterol level. Canola is a moderately salt-tolerant crop, grown mainly for its edible oil. However, its production and quality are greatly reduced by soil salinity (Akbari et al., 2011). A major constraint to seed germination and seedling establishment of canola is soil salinity, which is a common problem in irrigated areas of Iran with low rainfall. This problem adversely affects growth and development of crop, and results into low agricultural production. The most common undesirable ','Irandokht Mansoori, Hamid Najafe-Zarrini, Nadali Babaean Jelodar and Ali Pakdin (2017). Screening of Canola (Brassica napus L.) Genotypes for Salt Tolerance Based on Early Growth Stage. Biological Forum â€“ An International Journal 9(2): 208-216. '),(993,'32','Captive Breeding and Conservation Status of Marsh Crocodiles (Crocodylus palustris) in New Jatoi Farm Naushehroferoze, Sindh, Pakistan','Muhammad Saleem Chang, Ghulam Sarwar Gachal and Khadim Hussain Memon','Captive Breeding and Conservation Status of Marsh Crocodiles Crocodylus palustris in New Jatoi Farm Naushehroferoze Sindh Pakistan 29 DR. MUHAMMAD SALEEM CHANG.pdf','',1,'A study on captive breeding and conservation status of Marsh Crocodiles (Crocodylus palustris) in New Jatoi Farm Naushehroferoze was undertaken during the years 2011-2015. To achieve this objective the study monitored the current population status, feeding, reproductive mode and measurements of hatchling, juvenile, adult and size of eggs. The observation revealed that the total numbers of Marsh Crocodiles were counted 133 in the New Jatoi Farm, among them 20 males and 25 females in Pond-1 were adults, 44 were juveniles in Pond-2, and 76 hatchlings in Pond-3 were counted. With a view to study the breeding behavior, twenty two adult females were observed to lay the eggs per female/per year. However, the breeding habitat of NJF for Crocodiles as observed in subsequent years was found productive and the number of eggs per clutch was recorded as in F-01. 23Â±2.73, F-02. 25.8Â±3.42, F-03. 25Â±3.16, F-04. 25.8Â±2.86, F-05. 26.2Â±3.70, F-06. 23.4Â±4.92, F-07. 25.8Â±3.27, F-08. 25.2Â±4.54, F-0','Captive breeding, Conservation, Status, Marsh Crocodiles, Habitat.','A study on captive breeding and conservation status of Marsh Crocodiles (Crocodylus palustris) in New Jatoi Farm Naushehroferoze was undertaken during the years 2011-2015. To achieve this objective the study monitored the current population status, feeding, reproductive mode and measurements of hatchling, juvenile, adult and size of eggs. The observation revealed that the total numbers of Marsh Crocodiles were counted 133 in the New Jatoi Farm, among them 20 males and 25 females in Pond-1 were adults, 44 were juveniles in Pond-2, and 76 hatchlings in Pond-3 were counted. With a view to study the breeding behavior, twenty two adult females were observed to lay the eggs per female/per year. However, the breeding habitat of NJF for Crocodiles as observed in subsequent years was found productive and the number of eggs per clutch was recorded as in F-01. 23Â±2.73, F-02. 25.8Â±3.42, F-03. 25Â±3.16, F-04. 25.8Â±2.86, F-05. 26.2Â±3.70, F-06. 23.4Â±4.92, F-07. 25.8Â±3.27, F-08. 25.2Â±4.54, F-0','New Jatoi Farm is located about 15 km away from Moro in district Naushehroferoze at 25Â° 22\' 20\'\' N, 68Â° 24\' 50\'\' E. NJF is non-profit private farm which was established by local landlord. The muggers were kept in captive in NJF before 1970s and were able to rebuild populations, provide muggers for restocking elsewhere, and resort eventually to farming the Crocodiles.\r\nThe wildlife farming is a need for private individuals to complement such efforts for conservation of economically important animals. The best ways of achieving to increase wildlife population is by encouraging local community and organizations to participate in wildlife farming and captive management of some wild animal species like as Crocodiles.\r\nAll wild mugger populations are legally protected, and management programs intended to restore populations have been very successful (Cox and Rahman, 1994). Widespread captive breeding populations have restocked wild populations and now have a surplus of captive-bred crocodi','Muhammad Saleem Chang, Ghulam Sarwar Gachal and Khadim Hussain Memon (2017). Captive Breeding and Conservation Status of Marsh Crocodiles (Crocodylus palustris) in New Jatoi Farm Naushehroferoze, Sindh, Pakistan . Biological Forum â€“ An International Jo'),(994,'33','Storytelling and the Point of View: The Study of In Evil Hour (1779)','Jeet Singh','Storytelling and the Point of View The Study of In Evil Hour (1779) DR JEET SINGH 1068.pdf','',1,'','','','',''),(995,'33','A Study of Literature Review and Gap Analysis of Reverse Logistics System and\r\nImplementation','Aditi V. Aljapurkar* and Satyajit D. Ingawale**','A Study of Literature Review and Gap Analysis of Reverse Logistics System and Implementation 24 IJAMH-1058-ADITI V ALJAPURKAR.pdf','',1,'','','','',''),(996,'37','Essential Oil from the Leaves of Fraxinus syriaca: Chemical Composition and Antimicrobial Activity','O. Chouitah1* , B. Meddah1, P. Sonnet2','1_JNBR_6(3)_2017.pdf','',1,'','','','',''),(997,'37','Report of an abnormal morph of Black-headed Ibis Threskiornis melanocephalus (Latham, 1790)','Sunil Chaudhury and Vijay Kumar Koli','2_JNBR_6(3)_2017.pdf','',1,'','','','',''),(998,'34','Problem of Water Logging through Soil Quarrying in Brick Kiln Industry: A Study of Tufanganj Block-I, Koch Bihar, West Bengal','Nazrul Islam* and Ranjan Roy**','Problem of Water Logging through Soil Quarrying in Brick Kiln Industry A Study of Tufanganj Block-I Koch Bihar West Bengal 30 NAZRUL ISLAM.pdf','',1,'','','','',''),(999,'34','Fixed Point Theorem in Fuzzy Metric Space for Idempotent Mappings','Nidhi Verma*and Dr. Rajesh Shrivastava**','Fixed Point Theorem in Fuzzy Metric Space for Idempotent Mappings 31 NIDHI VERMA.pdf','',1,'','','','',''),(1000,'34','Anatomical Characteristics of the Stem Wood of Moringa peregrina (Forssk.) Fiori Planted in Western Saudi Arabia','Ashraf O. Elwakeel, Hussein E. Osman and Atalla A. Abohassan','Anatomical Characteristics of the Stem Wood of Moringa peregrina (Forssk.) Fiori Planted in Western Saudi Arabia 32 HUSSEIN E.pdf','',1,'','','','',''),(1001,'32','Two New Species of Amblyseius (ACARI: Phytoseiidae) from Kerala,\r\nIndia','M. P. Rahul and Mary Anithalatha Sadanandan','Two-New-Species-of-Amblyseius-(ACARI-Phytoseiidae)-from-Kerala-India-30-MP-RAHUL.pdf','',1,'This study was conducted to find out the acarine natural enemies of phytophagous mites on vegetable crops in various localities of North Kerala. A total of 29 species of plant samples were examined during the period of study, 66 species of predatory mites were collected. Two new species of Amblyseius viz., Amblyseius amithae sp. nov. and Amblyseius sachini sp.nov. are described with illustrations. ','Acari, Predatory mite, Phytoseiidae, Amblyseius, New species, Kerala.','This study was conducted to find out the acarine natural enemies of phytophagous mites on vegetable crops in various localities of North Kerala. A total of 29 species of plant samples were examined during the period of study, 66 species of predatory mites were collected. Two new species of Amblyseius viz., Amblyseius amithae sp. nov. and Amblyseius sachini sp.nov. are described with illustrations. ','During recent years mites are increasingly becoming serious pests of horticultural crops including ornamental and medicinal plants. Many of the mite species were assumed major pest status because of the elimination of natural enemies caused by the indiscriminate application of pesticides (Subhasree et al., 2015). Predatory mites are the promising bio control agents of phytophagous mites.\r\nPredatory mites of the family Phytoseiidae has been generally considered to be the most promising group of predators of pest mites on different crops (Gerson et al., 2003) and other small arthropods. They feed upon injurious plant feeding mites of the families Tetranychidae, Tenuipalpidae and Eriophyidae (Tuttle and Muma, 2003). Several biological and ecological studies have shown that mites of this family are potentially important as biotic factors in the natural or biological control of injurious plant feeding mites. According to Beaulieu et al. (2011) about 2,300 species of phytoseiids belonging to','M. P. Rahul and Mary Anithalatha Sadanandan (2017). Two New Species of Amblyseius (ACARI: Phytoseiidae) from Kerala, India .Biological Forum â€“ An International Journal 9(2): 224-226. '),(1002,'34','In Vitro Antioxidant Activity of Selected Seaweeds in the Philippines','Patricia Louise C. Arive, Ionna H. Inquimboy and Nancy Lazaro-Llanos','In Vitro Antioxidant Activity of Selected Seaweeds in the Philippines 33 NANCY LAZARO-LLANOS.pdf','',1,'','','','',''),(1003,'34','Growth Mechanism of ZnO Nanostructures Grown by Chemical Method','Surajit Mandal','Growth Mechanism of ZnO Nanostructures Grown by Chemical Method 34 SURAJIT MANDAL.pdf','',1,'','','','',''),(1004,'32','Studies of the Genus Thyreus Panzer (Hymenoptera: Apidae: Apinae)\r\nwith Six New Records from Vietnam','Tran Thi Ngat*, Nguyen Phuong Minh**,***, Truong Xuan Lam*,*** and Nguyen Thi Phuong Lien*,***','Studies of the Genus Thyreus Panzer (Hymenoptera Apidae Apinae) with Six New Records from Vietnam 31 NGUYEN THI PHUONG LIEN.pdf','',1,'Nine species of the genus Thyreus Panzer, 1806 (Hymenoptera: Apidae: Apinae) from Vietnam are presented. Three species, Thyreus himalayensis (Radoszkowski, 1893), T. histrio (Fabricius, 1775) and T. massuri (Radoszkowski, 1893) are reconfirmed to occur in Vietnam. Six species, T. abdominalis (Friese, 1905), T. centrimacula (PÃ©rez, 1905), T. ceylonicus (Friese, 1905), T. decorus (Smith, 1852), T. medius (Meyer, 1921) and T. regalis Lieftinck, 1962 are newly recorded for the Vietnamese fauna. A redescription of T. abdominalis rostratus is provided. Keys to both sexes of all recorded species are given with illustrations.','Hymenoptera, Apidae, Thyreus, new records, Vietnam.','Nine species of the genus Thyreus Panzer, 1806 (Hymenoptera: Apidae: Apinae) from Vietnam are presented. Three species, Thyreus himalayensis (Radoszkowski, 1893), T. histrio (Fabricius, 1775) and T. massuri (Radoszkowski, 1893) are reconfirmed to occur in Vietnam. Six species, T. abdominalis (Friese, 1905), T. centrimacula (PÃ©rez, 1905), T. ceylonicus (Friese, 1905), T. decorus (Smith, 1852), T. medius (Meyer, 1921) and T. regalis Lieftinck, 1962 are newly recorded for the Vietnamese fauna. A redescription of T. abdominalis rostratus is provided. Keys to both sexes of all recorded species are given with illustrations.','Thyreus Panzer, 1806 is distributed in Central and South Asia, Europe, Africa and Oceania (Ascher & Pickering, 2016). This genus comprises 111 described species worldwide, with 13 species recorded in southeastern Asia. A total of 83 species of this genus are recognized in the Palearctic and Indo-Australian areas after revision (Ascher & Pickering, 2016). Forty species are recorded in sub-Saharan Africa after the revision by Eardley (1991). Revisions of the genus Thyreus in Indo-Australia, the Palearctic and Spain were conducted by Lieftinck (1958, 1959, 1962), Lieftinck (1968) and VergÃ©s (1967), respectively. \r\nIn Thyreus, body size is greatly dependent on environmental conditions. In the female, the main characteristics used to differentiate species include color, size and confluence or interruption of hair patches on the thorax. However, in the male, classification is also based on the same characters as in the female as well as characters such as presence or absence of a tooth on t','Tran Thi Ngat, Nguyen Phuong Minh, Truong Xuan Lam, and Nguyen Thi Phuong Lien, (2017). Studies of the Genus Thyreus Panzer (Hymenoptera: Apidae: Apinae) with Six New Records from Vietnam , Biological Forum â€“ An International Journal 9(2): 227'),(1005,'32','Floral Structure, Stigma Receptivity and Pollen Viability in Relation to\r\nProtandry in Motherwort (Leonurus cardiaca L.)','Aydin Shekari*, Mohammad Hadi Mahdipour**, Vahideh Nazeri*** and Majid Shokrpour****','Floral Structure Stigma Receptivity and Pollen Viability in Relation to Protandry in Motherwort (Leonurus cardiaca L.) 32 AYDIN SHEKARI.pdf','',1,'Leonurus cardiaca, commonly known as motherwort, is a member of the Lamiaceae family. It has been used in the traditional medicine against nervous and functional cardiac disorders since the 15th century and now is described in pharmacopoeias for producing sedative, hypotensive and cardiotonic pharmacological effects. This experiment was accordingly conducted to investigate the flower structure, flower biology, pollination system, and breeding system. Autogamy, apomixy, xenogamy, and open pollination were examined by Cruden\'s method. The results show that L. cardiaca flowers are hermaphrodite and short-lived, which are arranged in raceme-like cyme inflorescences. Protandry is the dominant form, and the stigma reaches its most receptivity 48 hours after anthesis, while the highest in-vitro pollen germination is observed within two hours after anthesis. The style continues to growth after anthesis, reaching its maximum length 48 hours after flower opening, coinciding with the separation o','Facultative outcrossing, pollination, protandry, Lamiaceae family','Leonurus cardiaca, commonly known as motherwort, is a member of the Lamiaceae family. It has been used in the traditional medicine against nervous and functional cardiac disorders since the 15th century and now is described in pharmacopoeias for producing sedative, hypotensive and cardiotonic pharmacological effects. This experiment was accordingly conducted to investigate the flower structure, flower biology, pollination system, and breeding system. Autogamy, apomixy, xenogamy, and open pollination were examined by Cruden\'s method. The results show that L. cardiaca flowers are hermaphrodite and short-lived, which are arranged in raceme-like cyme inflorescences. Protandry is the dominant form, and the stigma reaches its most receptivity 48 hours after anthesis, while the highest in-vitro pollen germination is observed within two hours after anthesis. The style continues to growth after anthesis, reaching its maximum length 48 hours after flower opening, coinciding with the separation o','The reproductive biology of flowering plants is important to determine barriers to seed and fruit set, to conserve them, and to understand the pollination and breeding systems that regulate the genetic structure of populations (Tandon et al., 2003, Barrett, 2010). The timing of flowering can strongly influence the reproductive success of a plant in several ways (Rathckeand Lacey, 1985). Such effects may be mediated by abiotic factors and factors operating within plants, within populations, and between species (McIntosh, 2002).Variation in sexual plant breeding systems ranges from cleistogamy and in-bud pollination (mechanisms to ensure self-pollination) to dioecy and self-incompatibility (mechanisms that support cross-pollination). The pollen-ovule (P/O) ratio is an important floral trait that reflects the mating system of aplant (Cruden, 1977; Bennett, 1999; Jurgens et al., 2002). Cruden (1977) observed that out breeding plants tend to have higher P/O ratios. \r\nHe explained this findi','Aydin Shekari, Mohammad Hadi Mahdipour, Vahideh Nazeri and Majid Shokrpour (2017). Floral Structure, Stigma Receptivity and Pollen Viability in Relation to Protandry in Motherwort (Leonurus cardiaca L.) Biological Forum â€“ An International Journal 9(2)'),(1006,'33','The Study of Evolution of Employee Engagement Construct with Changing Generations','P. Bhuwaneshwari* and Dr. Anju Kumar**','The Study of Evolution of Employee Engagement Construct with Changing Generations 25 BHUWANESHWARI P.pdf','',1,'','','','',''),(1007,'33','Paul Celanâ€™s No Oneâ€™s Rose (Die Niemandsrose) : Desolation and Re-defining the Self','Abhay Kumar Mishra','IJAMH-1069-ABHAY KUMAR MISHRA.pdf','',1,'','','','',''),(1008,'33','Begar: A Bonded Labour during the Dogra Era in Kashmir and its Impact','Tauseef Shaban*, Shahnawaz Ahmad Dar* and R. Bharadwaj**','Begar A Bonded Labour during the Dogra Era in Kashmir and its Impact TAUSEEF SHABAN.pdf','',1,'','','','',''),(1009,'34','Performance Evaluation of Optical Access Network','Ankur Singhal1, Amit Gupta2 and Charanjeet Singh3','IJTAS-45-2017-ANKUR SINGHAL.pdf','',1,'','','','',''),(1010,'33','Non -Detention System a Failure Mechanism in Andhra Pradesh','Ganesh Lekkala','Non -Detention System a Failure Mechanism in Andhra Pradesh 28 DR GANESH LEKKALA.pdf','',1,'','','','',''),(1011,'34','Strong Authentication Policy for Cloud Computing Environment Using Modified Kerberos Authentication Protocol','Sweta Jain* and Dr Vineet Richhariya**','SHWETA JAIN.pdf','',1,'','','','',''),(1012,'33','Indian Classical Music: Traits and Trends','Samidha Vedabala','Indian Classical Music Traits and Trends 29 SAMIDHA VEDABALA.pdf','',1,'','','','',''),(1013,'34','Volumetric and Spectroscopic Studies of the Antibiotic Drug Oxytetracycline Hydrochloride in Water and in Aqueous betacyclodextrin Solution at Different Temperatures','Shashi Kant Sharma, Nisha Sharma and Poonam Thakur','Volumetric and Spectroscopic Studies of the Antibiotic Drug Oxytetracycline Hydrochloride in Water and in Aqueous beta-cyclodextrin Solution at Different Temperatures 37 NISHA SHARMA _1_.pdf','',1,'','','','',''),(1014,'34','Statistical Analysis of Nighttime TEC Depletions and GPS Loss of Lock in the Crest of Anomaly Region','Shivalika Sarkar* and A. K. Gwal**','Statistical Analysis of Nighttime TEC Depletions and GPS Loss of Lock in the Crest of Anomaly Region 38 SHIVALIKA SARKAR.pdf','',1,'','','','',''),(1015,'32','Constraints in Livestock Health System in Balochistan-Pakistan and its Impact on the Economy','Muhammad Shafiq*, Jahangir Khan**, Asma Azhar*** and Nosheen Rafiq****','Constraints in Livestock Health System in Balochistan-Pakistan and its Impact on the Economy 33 BFIJ-73-2017-MUHAMMAD SHAFIQ.pdf','',1,'A study was conducted in December 2016 to April 2017 to identify the impact of livestock health system on the livestock economy of Balochistan. Livestock is the largest sector of agrarian economy of Balochistan. However, it is facing number of limitations and constraints. Livestock health system has emerged as an impediment to the development of livestock economy. Current study focuses on the constraints in livestock health system of Balochistan. The Province of Balochistan has the largest number of small ruminants in the whole country, hence, the study is more focused on the health related issues of small ruminant in particular. Due to the largest province of Pakistan (in terms of area), the province of Balochistan, is facing numerous veterinary related issues, such as: Poor Veterinary services (PVS), Poor Veterinary extension services (PVE) and Improper medicine supply (IMS). These factors have direct impact on the livestock economy of Balochistan. This paper is an attempt to look','Livestock, Small ruminants, animal health constraints, diseases, Economy.','Animal health is an important issue in rural settings. Theses societies take their livestock as they care their relations. Diseases in livestock animals are also prevalent which cause not only the financial loss to livestock holders but it is also like a missing a member in the family. However, they cannot avoid it (Nawaz, 1995). Additionally, there are no proper veterinary services and improper medication are catastrophic for the growth of livestock herds in rural settings. This ultimately depresses the livestock economy and does not allow the livestock holder to prosper (Thornton et al., 2002).','Balochistan is located in southwest of Pakistan, constituting approximately 44% of the countryâ€™s total land mass (Geological Survey of Pakistan, 2005; Shafiq et al, 2016), and the smallest in terms of population, being home to less than 5% of the countryâ€™s total population (Population and Housing Census of Pakistan, 1998). Most part of Balochistan is highly arid zone of the country, so crop cultivation is considered very difficult in major parts of Balochistan, due to low annual rainfall, creating a shortage of water resources. The low rainfall varying from 50 millimeter in coastal areas of Makran and Chagai district to 400 mm in the North Eastern Parts of Lorelei and Zhob districts (Balochistan Sub Strategy, 1999). Poor nutrition in combination with livestock diseases are a serious problem limiting production of small ruminants in Balochistan. It is estimated that only 11 % of Baluchistanâ€™s livestock have access to veterinary dispensaries (Mansell, and Wehn, 1998). The inaccessi','Muhammad Shafiq, Jahangir Khan, Asma Azhar and Nosheen Rafiq (2017). Constraints in Livestock Health System in Balochistan-Pakistan and its Impact on the Economy . Biological Forum â€“ An International Journal 9(2): 243-247. '),(1016,'32','Study on Gross Primary Productivity, Fish Catch, Stocking and Management in Motial Lake Reservoir and Socio-Economic Status of Fishermen','Sarita Kumari, Jawed Ahmed Khan and M. S. Thakur','Study on Gross Primary Productivity-Fish Catch-Stocking and Management in Motial Lake Reservoir and Socio-Economic Status of Fishermen 34 BFIJ-46-2017-SARITA KUMARI.pdf','',1,'This study was carried out in Motia Lake Bhopal, Madhya Pradesh, India for two years from 2011 to 2013 on the production and population of fishes. The three major carps such as Catla, Rohu and Mrigal were dominant and constitute about 81.66% (279.72 Kg/ha/yr) and 98.77% (352.49 kg/ha/yr) of total catch during the study period. The total fish productions were found to be 264.65 and 283.00 Kg/ha/yr during 2011-12 and 2012-13, respectively. In the fish catches, rohu (Labeo rohita) was the major species followed by catla (Catla catla), common carp (Cyprinus), mrigal (Cirrhinus mrigala) and grass carp (Ptenopharyngodon idella). The average stocking rate of major carps was recorded to be 25155.76 numbers each year. Among the stocked species, catla, rohu and common carp were found thriving well in the Motia Lake. The fish production was found to be stocking density dependent. Further, the production of 1 Kg fish, stocking density requirement of 66 was observed in lake. The socio-economic sur','Primary productivity, fish catch, stocking, fish yield, Socio-economic status','In the present study the carps such as Catla, Rohu and Mrigal were found in dominance during the study period. The total fish productions were found to be 264.65 and 283.00 Kg/ha/yr. The average stocking rate of carps was found 25155.76 in each year. Among the stocked species, catla, rohu and common carp were found thriving well in the Motia Lake. The fish production was found to be stocking density dependent. The socio-economic survey of lake showed that the fishery is not only a profitable business but also helpful in improving the nutritional status of fish eating population of Bhopal. It was inferred that about 90% houses of fishermen have not minimum facilities such as kitchen, bathrooms and lavatories.','Indiaâ€™s inland water bodies are diverse and important source of food and also provide employment for the people of rural India. India is the second largest producer of Inland fishes. At present, about 80% of inland fish produced in India is derived from aquaculture and 22% from capture fisheries.\r\n Reservoir constitutes a single largest inland fishery resource, in terms of production and size. These made ecosystem offer enough scope for stock manipulation through ecological maneuverings paving the way for production hikes at relatively low capital investment. Majority of reservoirs in our country are no scientifically managed. The area under fresh water aquaculture in the form of lakes was estimated to be about 2.85 million hectare (Piska, 2000). According to report of UNESCO (1978), water reservoir area was found about 6,00,000 Sq. Km. Sugman, (1995) has estimated total of 19,370 reservoirs in India with total area of 3.15 million hectare. It has been reported that the average India','Sarita Kumari, Jawed Ahmed Khan and M. S. Thakur (2017). Study on Gross Primary Productivity, Fish Catch, Stocking and Management in Motial Lake Reservoir and Socio-Economic Status of Fishermen , Biological Forum â€“ An International Journal 9(2): 248-'),(1017,'36','Parkinsonâ€™s disease Diagnosis Using Data Mining Techniques: A Review','Sakina Imam* and Sarwesh Site**','IJEECE-1069a-MS. SAKINA IMAM.pdf','',1,'','','','',''),(1018,'36','A Review of Speech Recognition','Amit Kumar Sahu* and Abhishek Sharma**','IJEECE-1070-AMIT KUMAR SAHU.pdf','',1,'','','','',''),(1019,'28','Bhasa: The Eminent Poet','Dr. Indhulekha B','Bhasa The Eminent Poet 7 DR INDHULEKHA B 6_1_2017.pdf','',1,'','','','',''),(1020,'6','The Essence of Bhagavadgita','Dr. Indhulekha B','DR INDHULEKHA B 5_1_2016.pdf','',1,'','','','',''),(1021,'33','The Sphotavada of Language','Dr. Indhulekha B','The Sphotavada of Language 30 DR INDHULEKHA B 6_2_2017.pdf','',1,'','','','',''),(1022,'32','Determination of GPR55 over Expression by Quantitative Real-time PCR as a Biomarker for Skin SCC Detection','Farzaneh Nayeb Habib*, Soheila S. Kordestani* and Mohammad Shirkhoda**','Determination of GPR55 over Expression by Quantitative Real-time PCR as a Biomarker for Skin SCC Detection 35 FARZANEH NAYEB HABIB-R.pdf','',1,'Chronic wounds resemble the wounds arising with skin squamous cell carcinoma (SCC). Since they are cancerous, they should be treated using novel bioactive wound dressing instead of biopsy and related procedure for detection. Using a noninvasive method is necessary for early detection and proper treatment. \r\nThe aim of this study is to investigate GPR55 over expression by quantitative real-time PCR as a biomarker for early detection of skin squamous cell carcinoma (SCC).\r\nIn a clinical trial, 10 patients were randomly assigned to treatment and were compared to 10 healthy people in control group. Over expression of GPR55 gene was evaluated by quantitative real-time PCR in both groups. The expression of GPR55 gene was significantly higher in treatment group compared to the control group. The results of the study suggest that the over expression of GPR55 can be utilized as a biomarker for detection of skin SCC. \r\n','Skin squamous cell carcinoma; over expression; GPR55 expression; RT-PCR','Detection of SCC employing conclusive and non-invasive methods can be very important to early treatment of a cancer patient. It appears that the over expression of GPR55 gene can be an effective biomarker in SCC patients.\r\nThese results combined with other non-invasive early detection methods could open a new horizon for the detection and consequent treatment of SCC patients.\r\n \r\n \r\n','Chronic wounds resemble the wounds arising with skin squamous cell carcinoma (SCC). Since they are cancerous, they should be treated using novel bioactive wound dressing instead of biopsy and related procedure for detection. Using a noninvasive method is necessary for early detection and proper treatment. \r\nCancer can be defined as a failure within the cells\' communication network (Simon, 2010). Skin cancer is currently the most common type of human cancer, and of particular concern, its incidence is increasing at an astonishing rate. Epidemiological and molecular data strongly suggest that non-melanoma skin cancers are associated with excessive exposure to the ultraviolet (UV) radiation in sunlight. Although stratospheric ozone blocks UVC(below 280 nm) radiation as well as part of UVB radiation (280-290 nm) from reaching the surface of the earth, UVB (290-315 nm) and UVA (315-400 nm)reach the surface of the earth, and cause DNA damage, inflammation and erythema, sunburn, gene mutat','Farzaneh Nayeb Habib, Soheila S. Kordestani and Mohammad Shirkhoda (2017). Determination of GPR55 over Expression by Quantitative Real-time PCR as a Biomarker for Skin SCC Detection , Biological Forum â€“ An International Journal 9(2): 258-264. '),(1023,'32','Hopf- Bifurcation Analysis of Delayed Prey-Predator System','Nishant Juneja* and Kulbhushan Agnihotri**','Hopf- Bifurcation Analysis of Delayed Prey-Predator System 36 NISHANT JUNEJA-FINALR.pdf','',1,'The present paper deals with a SIS (Susceptible Infected Susceptible) predator-prey model with disease in prey species only. It is assumed that the predator species only predates the infected prey with Holling type - II functional response. It is assumed that predator growth is not instantaneous after consuming the prey and a discrete time lag for gestation of predator is required. The conditions for Hopf bifurcation around the interior equilibrium point are also derived. Finally, numerical simulations supporting the theoretical results are given. ','Local stability, Carrying capacity, Hopf bifurcation, Predation rate, Delay ','An eco-epidemiological mathematical model incorporating time delay with infection in prey species is formed. It is found that the time delay can remove the limit cycle oscillations from the system. It is found that coexistence of all the three species is possible through periodic solutions due to Hopf bifurcation. Numerical simulations have been carried out to defend the theoretical results obtained. The numerical simulations have revealed that the dynamics of the system is largely affected by considering delay in the gestation period of the predator species. \r\n \r\n Juneja and Agnihotri 270\r\n \r\nThe introduction of small delay in gestation period can make the system oscillation free and thus showing the stabilizing nature of delay. \r\n','The existence of periodic solution / limit cycle oscillations due to predator functional response is well studied behavior in prey-predator models (Freedman, 1980 and Kot, 2001). A lot of work has already been done on different types of functional responses depending upon the densities of prey, predator and other significant factors (May, 2001, Murray, 2002, Agnihotri and Juneja, 2015, Agnihotri and Juneja, 2015). These functional responses are mostly classified as classical prey dependent and ratio dependent responses. Presently, the researchers are showing immense and continuing curiosity in studying the dynamics of predatorâ€“prey systems with time delay, stage structure, functional response, etc. In recent years, a number of researchers (Wang, 1998 and Huang, et al., 2006) studied delay induced preyâ€“predator model to discuss the stability of the system. Several investigations reported that under the influence of these factors, the system exhibits more complex and richer dynamics','Nishant Juneja and Kulbhushan Agnihotri (2017). Hopf- Bifurcation Analysis of Delayed Prey-Predator System , Biological Forum â€“ An International Journal 9(2): 265-270(2017) '),(1024,'32','Assessing the Impact of Anthropogenic Activities on the Relative\r\nDensity of Macroinvertebrates in a Hill Stream Located in Western\r\nHimalaya, District Solan, Himachal Pradesh, India','Sharanjeet Kaur Kahlon and J.M. Julka','Assessing the Impact of Anthropogenic Activities on the Relative Density of Macroinvertebrates in a Hill Stream Located in Western Himalaya District Solan Himachal Pradesh India 25 SHARANJEET KAUR.pdf','',0,'','','','',''),(1025,'33','Effect of Yoga on Level of Depression among Females suffering from Polycystic Ovarian Syndrome (PCOS)','Jaimala. A Sode* and Mrunal. A. Bhardwaj**','Effect of Yoga on Level of Depression among Females suffering from Polycystic Ovarian Syndrome (PCOS) 31 MRUNAL A BHARDWAJ.pdf','',1,'','','','',''),(1026,'33','Gender, Feminism and Modern Literature in the Novels of Taslima Nasreen','Vaseem Ahmad Rather and Mani Mohan Mehta','Gender Feminism and Modern Literature in the Novels of Taslima Nasreen 32 IJAMH-1083- VASEEM AHMAD RATHER.pdf','',1,'','','','',''),(1027,'33','Magical Realism Reflected in the Salman Rushdieâ€™s Novel Midnightâ€™s Children','Shabir Ahmad Wani and Mani Mohan Mehta','Magical Realism Reflected in the Salman Rushdieâ€™s Novel Midnightâ€™s Children 33 IJAMH-1084-SHABIR AHMAD.pdf','',1,'','','','',''),(1028,'33','Literary Language in the Poetry of Agha Shahid Ali','Azhar Mahmood and Mani Mohan Mehta','Literary Language in the Poetry of Agha Shahid Ali 34 IJAMH-1086-AZHAR MEHMOOD.pdf','',1,'','','','',''),(1029,'34','Synthesis and Spectral Identification of Novel Alkyl-Aryl Phosphoric Amide-An Antibacterial Agent','Manzoor Ahmad Khanday and Shashi Prabha','MANZOOR AHMAD.pdf','',1,'','','','',''),(1030,'34','Vertical Electron Density Profile Estimation using Ground based Ionosonde and in-situ Density Measurement over Dibrugarh','B. R. Kalita*,** and P.K. Bhuyan*','Vertical Electron Density Profile Estimation using Ground based Ionosonde and in-situ Density Measurement over Dibrugarh 39 B. R. KALITA.pdf','',1,'','','','',''),(1031,'34','Soft Computing- A Journey from Statistics','Shabia Shabir Khan','IJTAS-61-2017-SHABIA SHABIR KHAN.pdf','',1,'','','','',''),(1032,'34','DNA Compression Algorithm â€“using Inter Vs Intra Chromosomal Repeats','Kakoli Banerjee* and Dr. D. V. Rai**','DNA Compression Algorithm â€“using Inter Vs Intra Chromosomal Repeats 41 IJTAS-67-2017-KAKOLI BANERJEE.pdf','',1,'','','','',''),(1033,'37','Isolation, molecular characterization and qualitative screening for lignocellulolytic enzymes of Porostereum spadiceum: A new record of corticoid basidiomycetes from district Hamirpur (H.P.)','Indu Bhushan Prasher and Manju*','3_JNBR-6(2)_2017.pdf','',1,'','','','',''),(1034,'37','First Report on Ecotourism Potential in Sorsan Region of Rajasthan','Renu Meena1*, Ram Prakash Saran2 and Veena Chourasia1','4_JNBR_6(2)_2017.pdf','',1,'','','','',''),(1035,'37','Conservation and Development in Great Himalayan National Park-Western Himalaya','Gaurav Kapoor*','5_JNBR_6(3)_2017.pdf','',1,'','','','',''),(1036,'37','Morphology and Taxonomic Identity of a Leafless orchid Aphyllorchis from Bukidnon, Philippines','Noe P. Mendez1*, Dave P. Buenavista1,2 and Rainear A. Mendez3,4','6_JNBR_6(3)_2017.pdf','',1,'','','','',''),(1037,'35','New Low Power 1-bit Full Adder Circuit for Speed in Nanoscale Technology','Hemraj Jijne* and Ashish Raghuwanshi**','3 IJET-5-2017-ASHISH RAGHUVANSHI.pdf','',1,'','','','',''),(1038,'35','Urbanization and Environment in a Sustainability Framework â€“A Study of Dehradun','Ar. Iram* and Ar. Deepak Shah*','4 IJET-7-2017-AR. IRAM.pdf','',1,'','','','',''),(1039,'35','Determination of MW-generation Participation factors for Voltage Stability Enhancement Employing Jaya Algorithm','Pradeep Purey','5 IJET-9-2017-PRADEEP PUREY.pdf','',1,'','','','',''),(1041,'33','Prospects of Tourism and its Infrastructural Gaps in Dhauladhar Circuit','Dr. Nitin Vyas* and Surjeet Kumar**','IJAMH-1082 DR NITIN VYASr.pdf','',1,'','','','',''),(1042,'33','A Study of Spiritual Intelligence and Religiosity across Gender, Region and Age among Pilgrims of Haridwar and Rishikesh','Arun Kumar*, Naveen Pant** and Danish Sharma***','IJAMH-1072-ARUN KUMAR.pdf','',1,'','','','',''),(1043,'33','Occupational Structure of Population in Anuppur District: Geographical Analysis','Dr. Richa Chaturvedi','IJAMH-1062-DR RICHA CHATURVEDI.pdf','',1,'','','','',''),(1045,'35','To Analysis the Structural Behavior and Properties of Burnt Clay Brick and Fly Ash Brick','Er. Parveen and Er. Vikram','6 IJET -10-2017-PARVEEN.pdf','',1,'-','-','-','-','-'),(1046,'37','DIVERSITY OF GENUS HYPHODONTIA ERIKSS. FROM JAMMU DIVISION (J&K)','Jyoti Sharma, Avneet Pal Singh* & Gurpaul Singh Dhingra','7_JNBR_6(3)_2017.pdf','',1,'','','','',''),(1047,'37','First report of Genus Hestiasula Saussure, 1871 from Jharkhand, India','Saurav Dwari* and Amal Kumar Mondal','8_JNBR_6(3)_2017.pdf','',1,'','','','',''),(1048,'32','Effect of Different Physico-chemical Parameters on Adsorption\r\nPerformance of Molecularly Imprinted Polymer for Removing\r\nAflatoxin M1 from Cow\'s Milk','Samad Bodbodak*, Javad Hesari*, Seyed Hadi Peighambardoust* and Mehrdad Mahkam**','Effect of Different Physico-chemical Parameters on Adsorption Performance of Molecularly Imprinted Polymer for Removing Aflatoxin M1 from Cow\'s Milk 37 SAMAD BODBODAK.pdf','',1,'In the present study, efficiency of novel molecularly imprinted polymer (MIP) as a selective adsorbent in removal of aflatoxin M1 (AFM1) from cow\'s milk was evaluated. For this purpose, effects of different physico-chemical parameters such as pH and ionic strength of the solution, agitation mode and adsorption behaviour of different adsorbents were determined by high-performance liquid chromatography. Also, the effects of adsorption on chemical composition of milk were evaluated in the terms of protein, fat, lactose and total solids. The removal efficiency of AFM1 increased with a magnetic stirring mode and rise of pH from 3 to 7. Also, it decreased with an increment of ionic strength. The results showed that under optimized conditions (stirring at 120 rpm, solution pH = 7, contact time 100 min at 30Â°C) the MIPs had the highest AFM1 removal efficiency (91.33%) and enhance its safety without any significant effects on quality of milk.','Aflatoxin M1; Molecularly imprinting polymer; Adsorption; Cow\'s milk, Ionic strength.','Occurrence of AFM1 in dairy products is a global challenge, especially for infants and children. Therefore, all of the possible methods to enhance the safety of dairy products should be investigated. In the present study, we introduced a new adsorbent to detoxify the milk based on coating SSP with MIP layer. The Oxidized and silylated SSP was used as supporting bed for surface coating of MIP. The prepared MIPs had higher capacity and selectivity toward AFM1 in spiked aqueous solution compared to respective NIPs. The optimum pH, ionic strength and agitation mode for AFM1 removal were 7, 0.5-2.5 % and stirring mode, respectively. The MIP I was most effective adsorbent for removal of AFM1 from spiked model solution and milk sample. Also, the amount of protein, fat, lactose and total solid content of milk sample didn\'t decrease significantly after treating with the MIP adsorption. On the basis of obtained results, it could be concluded that the MIPs can be applied as an efficient adsorbent','Milk and dairy products have important nutritional and functional role in the human diet and provides vital constituents for humans of all ages. Nevertheless, some hazards such as chemical and microbial contaminants, natural toxins, parasites, pesticides, and drug residues, color additives, unapproved ingredients may occur in milk and dairy products which have negative effects on human health. One of the serious global concerns of dairy product consumption is their contamination to mycotoxins such as aflatoxin M1 (AFM1) and ochratoxin A.\r\nAflatoxins are natural, highly toxic, immunosuppressive, mutagenic, carcinogenic and teratogenic metabolites of certain fungi strains (Zinedine and Manes, 2009). AFM1 is the principal metabolite of aflatoxin B1 (AFB1) which found especially in milk and other dairy products as a result of feeding animal with AFB1 contaminated feedstuffs (Prandini et al., 2009; Santili et al., 2015). AFM1 contamination of dairy products is a serious health threatening p','Samad Bodbodak, Javad Hesari*, Seyed Hadi Peighambardoust and Mehrdad Mahkam (2017). Effect of Different Physico-chemical Parameters on Adsorption Performance of Molecularly Imprinted Polymer for Removing Aflatoxin M1 from Cow\'s Milk , Biological Forum â'),(1049,'33','The Impact of Technology in HR: The Road Ahead','Dr. R.Gopal and Abhya Juneja','The Impact of Technology in HR The Road Ahead 38 ABHYA JUNEJA.pdf','',1,'','','','',''),(1050,'33','A Study of Vocational Guidance Needs in Relation to Family Climate of Adolescents','Dr. Kiran Walia','A Study of Vocational Guidance Needs in Relation to Family Climate of Adolescents 39DR KIRAN WALIA.pdf','',1,'','','','',''),(1051,'32','Association between Different Types of Allergy Disorders, Total Immunoglobulin E and Risk of Breast Cancer','Mohammad Shirkhoda, MD1,2, Reza Ghiasvand, Ph.D.3, Fatemeh Sadeghi, M.Sc.1,4*,\r\nMohammad Hassan Bemanian, MD5, Azam Noormohammadi, M.Sc.1,\r\nRamesh Omranipour, M.D.2* and Kazem Zendehdel, MD, Ph.D.1','Association between Different Types of Allergy Disorders Total Immunoglobulin E and Risk of Breast Cancer 38 FATEMEH SADEGHI.pdf','',1,'We aimed to investigate the association between history of allergic disorders, total IgE level and risk of Breast Cancer (BC). A case-control study was conducted and 168 BC patients and 165 controls were enrolled. Participants were interviewed in details about history of allergic disorders and allergic symptoms. In addition, total IgE levels was measured. A significant decrease was observed in risk of BC among participants with history of asthma compared to non-asthmatic participants in both univariate (P=0.0083) and multivariate analysis (P=0.035). Total IgE level above 25 IU/ml, was determined as borderline significant associated with BC in univariate analysis (P=0.07). However, the association was not significant in multivariate analysis. The association between atopy, defined by IgE level, and risk of BC may differ from the association investigated through clinically defined diseases such as asthma. Further study is recommended using a larger sample size and application of IgE spec','Allergy; Atopy, Asthma; IgE; Breast cancer, Developing countries','Our study suggests that asthma might decrease the risk of BC. In addition, some association was found in other subgroups of allergy disorders, although the results were not statistically significant. Further studies with larger sample size are required to confirm the findings of the present study. The mechanism behind an association between the risk of BC and allergic disorder is likely associated with a complex combination of immunological pathways and other predisposing risk factors. Advances in the understanding of cancer and immunology may give further clues to the role of atopic disorders in the risk of some types of cancer.','Breast cancer (BC) is the most common cancer diagnosis and the leading cause of cancer-related death among women worldwide. There were an estimated 1.7 million new cases and 521,900 deaths in 2012 (Torre et al., 2015). Besides, the prevalence of allergy and atopy has increased dramatically in recent decades. It is currently estimated that up to 40% of the people worldwide are sensitive (IgE antibodies) to foreign proteins in the environment (Weinberg, 2011) and asthma occurs in roughly 5 - 15% of the general population (Corren, 1997). However, there is considerable geographic difference in prevalence and types of allergen. It is estimated that in I.R of Iran, 20% of total population reported at least one allergic condition (Entezari et al., 2009).\r\nMany studies have evaluated the association between history of allergy and risk of cancer. A negative association has been reported in cancers of colorectal (Tambe et al., 2015; Kune et al., 2007) and pancreatic (Gomez-Rubio et al., 2015) an','Mohammad Shirkhoda, MD, Reza Ghiasvand, Ph.D., Fatemeh Sadeghi, M.Sc.,*,\r\nMohammad Hassan Bemanian, MD5, Azam Noormohammadi, M.Sc.,\r\nRamesh Omranipour, M.D.* and Kazem Zendehdel, MD, Ph.D. Association between Different Types of Allergy Disorders, Total Im'),(1052,'32','Density and Diversity of Benthic may Fly Larvae in a Torrential Hill Stream of Mid Himalaya, Solan, Himachal Pradesh, India','Alka Jaswal, J.M. Julka and Sharanjeet Kaur Kahlon','39 Density and Diversity of Benthic may Fly Larvae in a Torrential Hill Stream of Mid Himalaya, Solan, Himachal Pradesh, India 39 BFIJ-85-2017-ALKA CHANDEL-REVISED.pdf','',1,'The present study was conducted for two years from June 2013 to May 2015 to investigate distribution and diversity of mayfly larvae in relation to diverse substrata within a sub-Himalayan stream. The study revealed that substratum plays an important role in may fly distribution patterns. Caenis species was most abundant at site 2 consisting of debris stone and mud and at site 4 with sand cobbles and mud. Epeorus species was found only at site-4 with sand cobbles and mud and absent all other sites.','Mayflies, density, diversity, Western Himalaya, India','The present study was conducted for two years from June 2013 to May 2015 to investigate distribution and diversity of mayfly larvae in relation to diverse substrata within a sub-Himalayan stream. The study revealed that substratum plays an important role in may fly distribution patterns. Caenis species was most abundant at site 2 consisting of debris stone and mud and at site 4 with sand cobbles and mud. Epeorus species was found only at site-4 with sand cobbles and mud and absent all other sites.','Himachal Pradesh in the northwest region of the Himalayan biodiversity hotspot is bestowed with an intricate network of thousands of freshwater torrential streams, which constitute an important source of fisheries as well as source of water for irrigation and drinking purposes (Jhingran, 1975; Julka et al, 1999). The overall health of a stream is related to the diversity, distribution pattern and population of its benthic fauna (Callisto et al, 2007), which are also excellent indicators of water pollution (Gaufin and Tarzwell, 1952), (Sharma and Chowdhary 2011), (Ikhlas et al 2014).\r\nHuman interference by way of urbanization, extensive use of pesticides in orchards and agriculture fields, deforestation, grazing, etc, are known to affect stream biodiversity (Scrimgeour and Kendall, 2003; Ibemenuga and Inyang, 2006). Regular bio-monitoring and bio-assessment are useful tools for ecosystem management programmes, restoration and maintenance of physico-chemical and biological integrity','Alka Jaswal, J.M. Julka and Sharanjeet Kaur Kahlon (2017). Density and Diversity of Benthic may Fly Larvae in a Torrential Hill Stream of Mid Himalaya, Solan, Himachal Pradesh, India Biological Forum â€“ An International Journal 9(2): 287-293. '),(1055,'36','Design and Analysis of Fuzzy Pd Controllers using Multiple Fuzzy Sets ','Juveriya Anwer*, Amol Barve** and Sujeet Soni***','7 IJEECE-1072-JUVERIYA ANWER.pdf','',1,'','','','',''),(1056,'38','A Chemometric Approach for the Distribution and Source Identification of Heavy Metals in Tannery Contaminated Soil','Isa Baba Koki1 , Syed Noeman Taqui2 and Mohammed Ali Hussein Dhaif-Allah3','A Chemometric Approach for the Distribution and Source Identification of Heavy Metals in Tannery Contaminated Soil 1 ISA BABA KOKI.pdf','',1,'','','','',''),(1057,'38','Studies on Radon Exhalation Rate from Construction Materials of Mandya District, Karnataka State, India','M.S. Chandrashekara','Studies on Radon Exhalation Rate from Construction Materials of Mandya District Karnataka State India MS CHANDRASHEKARA.pdf','',1,'','','','',''),(1058,'38','Phylogenetic Studies of Rudraksha; Elaeocarpus spp.','Sagar Banerjee, Priyank Bharati, Sonali Gangwar and D. V. Rai','Phylogenetic Studies of Rudraksha_ Elaeocarpus spp 3 SAGAR BANERJEE.pdf','',1,'','','','',''),(1060,'39','Multicultural Themes in Khaled Hosseini\'s Novels: A Critical Analysis','Fayaz Ahmed Naik and Nidhi Tiwari','1 IJAMH-1097-FAYAZ AHMED NAIK.pdf','',1,'','','','',''),(1061,'39','A Study of Academic Achievement of Senior Secondary School Students in Relation to their Anxiety and School Environment','Dr. Munni Kumari','IJAMH-1093-DR MUNNI KUMARI.pdf','',1,'','','','',''),(1062,'40','Effects of Heavy Metals on the Health of Pregnant Women and Fetus: A Review','Azad Gull1 , Ashaq Ahmad Dar2 and Manoj Sharma3','GULL AZAD.pdf','',1,'','','','',''),(1063,'40','Impact of Incineration and disposal of Biomedical waste on Air quality in Gwalior city','Javid Manzoor1 and Manoj Sharma2','JAVID MANZOOR- final air paper thesis.pdf','',1,'','','','',''),(1064,'40','Formulation and Evaluation of Herbal Lipstick from Natural Edible Coloring Matter','Richa Kothari, Bhavya Shukla, Divya Gautam, Minisha Bagaria and Akansha Sharma','RICHA KOTHARI.pdf','',1,'','','','',''),(1065,'40','Mortality of Painted Stork Mycteria leucocephala by H5N8 Avain Viral Strain in Gandhi Zoological Park in Gwalior, Madhya Pradesh (India)','Sajad Ahmad Bhat and R.J. Rao','SAJAD AHMAD BHAT.pdf','',1,'','','','',''),(1066,'40','Assessment of Some Trace Elements and Heavy Metals in river Jhelum of Kashmir Valley','Mohammad Aneesul Mehmood *, Sartaj Ahmad Ganie , Rouf Ahmad Bhat , Asmat Rashid , Shafiq-ur-Rehman , Gowhar Hamid Dar and Aadil Gulzar','Anees_Assessment of Some Trace Elements and Heavy Metals in river Jhelum of Kashmir Valley.pdf','',1,'','','','',''),(1067,'40','Assessment of Toxic Lead in the Drinking Water of Kashmir Valley','Asmat Rashid , Mohammad Aneesul Mehmood , Rouf Ahmad Bhat and Shafiq-ur-Rehman ','Asmat_Assessment_of_Toxic_Lead_in_the_drinking_water_of_Kashmir_Valley.pdf','',1,'','','','',''),(1068,'40','Assessment of Pulp Quality of Datura stramonium Stalks as Raw Material for the Manufacture of Ecological Packaging','Sartaj A Ganie , Shoukat Ara , Saakshy Agarwal and Mohammad Aneesul Mehmood ','Sartaj_Assessment of Pulp Quality of Datura Stramonium Stalks As Raw Material.pdf','',1,'','','','',''),(1069,'40','A brief Insight in to Impact of Temperature rise due to Climate Change on Soil Microflora','Gaurav Sharma , Shweta Singh , Talwinder Singh , Amandeep Kaur , Sandhya Malhotra and Sonia Sharma','Gaurav_A brief insight in to impact of temperature rise due to climate change on soil microflora _2_ _2_.pdf','',1,'','','','',''),(1070,'40','Assessment of Some Macro Nutrients to Determine the Nutritional Status of Anchar Lake of Kashmir Himalaya','Irfana Showqi , Farooq Ahmad Lone , Mohammad Aneesul Mehmood , Mehrajuddin Naikoo and Nayaar Afaaq Kirmani','9_Irfana_Showqi_Assessment.pdf','',1,'','','','',''),(1071,'40','Phytochemical Estimation of Tephrosia purpurea Seed extract','Muddasir Basheer, Seema Rai, Hindole Ghosh and Younis Ahmad Hajam','10 MUDDASIR-R.pdf','',1,'-','-','-','-','-'),(1073,'38','16s RNA Partial Sequencing of Isolated Strains of Metal Resistant Bacteria','R. Ramya* and Dr. M. Boominathan**','16s RNA Partial Sequencing of Isolated Strains of Metal Resistant Bacteria 4 IJTAS-73-2017-R.pdf','',1,'','','','',''),(1074,'38','Phytochemical Analysis of Bitter Melon Juice; Antiproliferative and Apoptosis Inducing Activity on Human Osteosarcoma Cells','V. Rawat* , Sahabjada , M. Gupta , N. Shivnath , P. Gupta , S. K. Srivastava and M. Arshad*','Phytochemical Analysis of Bitter Melon Juice_ Antiproliferative and Apoptosis Inducing Activity on Human Osteosarcoma Cells 5.pdf','',1,'','','','',''),(1075,'39','Profitability Position of Commercial Banks in India - A Comparative Study','Kavita S. Vadrale* and Dr. (Mrs.) V.P. Katti**','Profitability Position of Commercial Banks in India - A Comparative Study 3 KAVITA S VADRALE.pdf','',1,'','','','',''),(1076,'39','Reading Walter Benjaminâ€™s The Work of Art in the Age of Mechanical Reproduction: The Concept of Aura and its varied Implications','Abhay Kumar Mishra','4 Reading Walter Benjamin’s The Work of Art in the Age of Mechanical Reproduction The Concept of Aura and its varied Implications 4 DR ABHAY KUMAR MISHRA.pdf','',1,'In his literary-critical writings, Walter Benjamin developed the notion of ‘Aura’. ‘Aura’, for\r\n\r\nhim, is the ‘unique’, ‘here and now’ of a work of art. The industrialization created the atmosphere of mass-\r\nreproduction, leaving the artwork not untouched. With the reproduction of the artwork, the authenticity of\r\n\r\nthe work of art was gradually eroded. The loss of authenticity went hand in hand with the creation of a\r\nsituation, in which the call towards the cultic/ ritualistic value of the ‘original’ was broken. Childhood as the\r\nlast aura represents the tension between ‘proximity and distance’. The distance created by the film vis-à-vis\r\nthe audience; the masses, prepared the ground for the masses to assume the role of critic. The socio-cultural\r\ntransformational value of the destruction of aura represented itself in the mobilization of the masses against\r\nthe aesthetics of war engendered by the cult of fuehrer during the epochal stretch of fascism.','Aura, Authenticity, Film, Fascism','This paper highlights the relevance of a work of art in terms of its location in the ‘here and now’, which represents\r\nits aura in historical-stretch. The value of the work of art undergoes transformations according to the caesura of\r\nhistory. For example, in the tradition of the enlightenment, Goethe’s works related to the assertion of humanism. In\r\nour age, Goethe is being interpreted in terms of its potential to address to the questions of the global capital.\r\nBenjamin attached value of aura to the childhood, which is substantiated in the autobiographical writing of his own\r\nchildhood in Berlin about the turn of the century. Benjamin contends that the film as an artwork destroys the aura of\r\naction, as on the one hand the actor stands before the constantly changing angles of the camera and on the other\r\nhand his presence is subjected to the incessant edition. However, Benjamin’s thesis of aura carries a positive\r\nmoment. Once the aura of a work of art is destroyed, it acquires the capability to suit the demands of history with the\r\ncaesura of cultural and social questions. Benjamin does not intend to reduce, in the same vein, the artistic value of\r\nfilm by its constant ‘cutting’ of the actions, albeit the ‘original actions’, rather he-in a vital posture- underlines his\r\nthesis that film, for the first time, equips the audience, the masses with the critical capacity to reflect on the social\r\ncrises. Benjamin, continuing his hope on the masses, emphasizes that the masses as the receiver of the cult, break the\r\ncult (breaking the cult for Benjamin signified the destruction of aura) of fuehrer and act as the agent of history\r\nthwarting the sublimating of the fascistic war.','(I). Benjamin, Walter: Illuminations. Edited and with an Introduction by Hannah Arendt. New York: Schocken\r\nBooks. 1968. Print. p. 220.\r\n(II). Benjamin, Walter: Illuminations. Edited and with an Introduction by Hannah Arendt. New York: Schocken\r\nBooks. 1968. Print. p. 221.\r\n(III). Fetishism stands for the relationship between people and material objects which allows for the establishment\r\nof the false models of causality for natural events.\r\n(IV). Benjamin, Walter: Illuminations. Edited and with an Introduction by Hannah Arendt. New York: Schocken\r\nBooks. 1968. Print. p. 225.\r\n(V). Benjamin, Walter: Illuminations. Edited and with an Introduction by Hannah Arendt. New York: Schocken\r\nBooks. 1968. Print. p. 224.\r\n(VI). Benjamin, Walter: Illuminations. Edited and with an Introduction by Hannah Arendt. New York: Schocken\r\nBooks. 1968. Print. p. 232.\r\n(VII). Benjamin, Walter: Illuminations. Edited and with an Introduction by Hannah Arendt. New York: Schocken\r\nBooks. 1968. Print. p. 226.\r\n(VIII). Benjamin, Walter: Little History of Photography.\r\nwww.totuusradio.fi/wordpress/wp-content/uploads/2010/09/benjamin-little-history-of-photography.pdf\r\n(IX). Benjamin, Walter: Illuminations. Edited and with an Introduction by Hannah Arendt. New York: Schocken\r\nBooks. 1968. Print. P. 211.\r\n(X). Benjamin, Walter: Illuminations. Edited and with an Introduction by Hannah Arendt. New York: Schocken\r\nBooks. 1968. Print. p. 222.\r\n(XI). Benjamin, Walter: Little history of Photography.\r\nwww.totuusradio.fi/wordpress/wp-content/uploads/2010/09/benjamin-little-history-of-photography.pdf.\r\n(XII). Benjamin, Walter: Illuminations. Edited and with an Introduction by Hannah Arendt. New York: Schocken\r\nBooks. 1968. Print. 221.\r\n(XIII). Ibid.\r\n(XIV). Benjamin, Walter: Illuminations. Edited and with an Introduction by Hannah Arendt. New York: Schocken\r\nBooks. 1968. Print. 219.\r\n(XV). “There is no such place for the movie scene that is being shot. Its illusionary nature is that of second degree,\r\nthe result of cutting.” Quoted from Benjamin: Benjamin, Walter: Illuminations. Edited and with an Introduction by\r\nHannah Arendt. New York: Schocken Books. 1968. Print. P. 233.\r\n(XVI). “The film makes the cult value recede into background...by putting the public in the position of critic...”\r\nQuoted from Benjamin, Walter: Illumination. Edited and with an Introduction by Hannah Arendt. New York:\r\nSchocken Books. 1968. Print. p. 240.\r\n(XVII). Benjamin, Walter: Illuminations. Edited and with an Introduction by Hannah Arendt. New York: Schocken\r\nBooks. 1968. Print. p. 231.\r\n(XVIII). Benjamin, Walter: Illuminations. Edited and with an Introduction by Hannah Arendt. New York: Schocken\r\nBooks. 1968. Print. p. 241.\r\n(XIX). Benjamin, Walter: Illuminations. Edited and with an Introduction by Hannah Arendt. New York: Schocken\r\nBooks. 1968. Print. p. 223.\r\n(XX). Benjamin, Walter: Illuminations. Edited and with an Introduction by Hannah Arendt. New York: Schocken\r\nBooks. 1968. Print. p. 242.\r\n(XXI). Benjamin, Walter: Illuminations. Edited and with an Introduction by Hannah Arendt. New York: Schocken\r\nBooks. 1968. Print. p. 218.','Reading Walter Benjaminâ€™s The Work of Art in the Age of Mechanical Reproduction: The Concept of Aura and its varied Implications'),(1077,'39','The governing features of Greek and Tamil Elegies as sharing the credit of standing in parallel lines in treatment of Themes: An Appraisal','Dr. S. Chelliah','5 The governing features of Greek and Tamil Elegies as sharing the credit of standing in parallel lines in treatment of Themes An Appraisal 5 DR. S.CHELLIAH.pdf','',1,'','','','',''),(1078,'42','Pollen Morphology and Pollen Elemental Composition of Selected Philippine Native Gingers in Tribe Alpinieae (Alpinioideae: Zingiberaceae)','Florfe M. Acma, and Noe P. Mendez, *','Pollen Morphology and Pollen Elemental Composition of Selected Philippine Native Gingers in Tribe Alpinieae (Alpinioideae Zingiberaceae) 1 NOE P. MENDEZ-5-2-18.pdf','',1,'The pollen morphology and pollen elemental composition of the selected Philippine native gingers in tribe Alpinieae (Alpinioideae: Zingiberaceae) viz., Amomum muricarpum Elm., Etlingera dalican (Elmer) A.D.Poulsen, E. philippinensis (Ridl.) R.M.Sm. and Hornstedtia conoidea Ridl. are not completely determined as well as their impacts in the pollen germination and pollen tube growth. In this study, the analyses were performed by light microscopy (LM), scanning electron microscopy (SEM) and energy dispersive x-ray (EDX) spectrometry to better understand their pollen surfaces and pollen elemental composition. Data revealed that the pollen sizes of A. muricarpum measured 45-80Âµm, E. dalican measured 65-75Âµm, E. philippinensis measured 60-65Âµm while H. conoidea measured 50-90Âµm. The four native species possess spheroidal shape and inaperturate pollen. However, pollen color of A. muricarpum and H. conoidea were yellowish-brown, while green to greenish-yellow for E. dalican and greenish fo','Amomum muricarpum, Etlingera dalican, Etlingera philippinensis, Hornstedtia conoidea, Philippine endemic','This study revealed that among the examined pollen, H. conoidea showed to have the biggest pollen, followed by A. muricarpum, E. dalican and E. philippinensis, respectively. The selected Philippine native gingers possess spheroidal shape pollen and are inaperturate. However, pollen color of A. muricarpum and H. conoidea appeared yellowish-brown, green to greenish-yellow for E. dalican and greenish for E. philippinensis. Ornamentation or exine sculpture of A. muricarpum is echinate, E. dalican is gemmate while E. philippinensis and H. conoidea is psilate. A greater proportion of K+ and S2- were observed in the pollen of the four native gingers amongst other detected elements by EDX which can enhance the rate of germination and tube growth of pollen.\r\n It is recommended, however, that further studies be conducted on other species of Zingiberaceae specifically in subfamily Alpinioideae. There is also a need to test the germination rate and measure the tube growth of the pollen of four spe','-','Florfe M. Acma, and Noe P. Mendez1, (2018). Pollen Morphology and Pollen Elemental Composition of Selected Philippine Native Gingers in Tribe Alpinieae (Alpinioideae: Zingiberaceae) Biological Forum â€“ An International Journal 10(1): 01-10.'),(1079,'2','mdmd','mad','11b.php','',0,'','','','',''),(1080,'2','mdmd','mdmd','35.pdf','',0,'','','','',''),(1081,'2','mdmd','mdmd','35.php.pdf;.xphpp','',0,'','','','',''),(1082,'13','Conflict and Psychological health of people: A study of Jammu and Kashmir','Irm Jalali Bodha* and Shabir Ahmad Sheikh**','Conflict and Psychological health of people A study of Jammu and Kashmir.pdf','',1,'','','','',''),(1083,'13','Famine in Kashmir: The Policy of Dogra Ruler: 1846-1925','Shabir Ahmad Sheikh* and Irm Jalali Bodha**','Famine in Kashmir The Policy of Dogra Ruler 1846-1925.pdf','',1,'','','','',''),(1084,'28','Conflict Student Unrest and Challenges: A Study of Students of Jammu and Kashmir','Shabir Ahmad Sheikh*, Irm Jalali Bodha** and Majid Amin***','Conflict Student Unrest and Challenges A Study of Students of Jammu and Kashmir.pdf','',1,'','','','',''),(1085,'28','Identity of Women: A Socio-historical Study of Jammu and Kashmir (1846-1947)','Irm Jalali Bodha* and Shabir Ahmad Sheikh**','Identity of Women A Socio-historical Study of Jammu and Kashmir (1846-1947).pdf','',1,'','','','',''),(1086,'28','Shawl Industry and its Impact on the Socio-economic Condition of Jammu and Kashmir','Shabir Ahmad Sheikh*, Irm Jalali Bodha** and Mohd. Altaf Bhat ***','Shawl Industry and its Impact on the Socio-economic Condition of Jammu and Kashmir.pdf','',1,'','','','',''),(1087,'38','Data: The Core of GIS','Dr. Richa Chaturvedi','Data The Core of GIS.pdf','',1,'','','','',''),(1088,'34','Studies on the Mammalian Diversity of Great Himalayan National Park Conservation Area, Himachal Pradesh, India ','Gaurav Sharma, Nirlep Dhatwalia* and Kangru Ram','IJTAS-42-2017-GAURAV SHARMA.pdf','',1,'','','','',''),(1089,'34','Development of Calcium Rich Instant Herbal Porridge mix by Incorporating Drumstick Leaves (Moringa oleifera L.)','NPPTS Kanthi*, PABN Perumpuli*, S. Hewage** and GSN Fernando* ','43-IJTAS-50-2017-PABN PERUMPULI.pdf','',1,'','','','',''),(1090,'34','Hybrid Encryption Technique for Security of Cloud Data ','Akanksha Pandey* and Dr. Sanjeev Sharma**','IJTAS-60-2017-AKANKSHA PANDEY.pdf','',1,'','','','',''),(1091,'34','Effect of Mycorrhizal Fungi on Morpho-physiologic and Nutritive Characteristics of Flying Dragon under Salinity Stress','Bahram Abedi and Behnam Esfandiari','45-IJTAS-19-2017-BEHNAM ESANDIARI.pdf','',1,'','','','',''),(1092,'34','Studies on screening of Bacillus sp. for Protease Production','A. Rebekkah Shanthakumari* and Dr. M. Boominathan**','46 IJTAS-78-2017-A REBEKKAH SHANTHAKUMARI.pdf','',1,'','','','',''),(1093,'43','Isolation and Characterization of Fusarium species causing leaf spot and root rot diseases on Aloe vera','Shubhi Avasthi1&3*, Ajay Kumar Gautam2, Rekha Bhaduaria1','1_JNBR_7(1)_2018.pdf','',1,'','','','',''),(1094,'43','New Distributional Record of Stuckenia pectinata (L.) Borner in Union Territory of Chandigarh, India','Malkiat Chand Sidhu, Shweta Puri and Amrik Singh Ahluwalia','2_JNBR_7(1)_2018 .pdf','',1,'','','','',''),(1095,'38','Synthesis, Characterisation and Antimicrobial Activity of Schiff Base of 7-Hydroxy-3-Methyl-2-Quinolone','Dr. Alka Pradhan1 and Sanjay Kumar Vishwakarma2','7-SANJAY KUMAR VISHWAKARMA.pdf','',0,'','','','',''),(1096,'38','Fixed Point Theorem in Complete Fuzzy Metric Space','Rajesh Shrivastava1 and Megha Shrivastava2','8-MEGHA SHRIVASTAVA.pdf','',0,'','','','',''),(1097,'39','A Comparative Study of English for Specific Purposes (ESP) and English as a Second Language (ESL) Programs for hotel management students','Omprakash Upadhyay','6-OM PRAKASH UPADHYAY.pdf','',1,'','','','',''),(1098,'38','Synthesis, Characterisation and Antimicrobial Activity of Schiff Base of 7-Hydroxy-3-Methyl-2-Quinolone','Dr. Alka Pradhan and Sanjay Kumar Vishwakarma','Synthesis Characterisation and Antimicrobial Activity of Schiff Base of 7-Hydroxy-3-Methyl-2-Quinolone 7 SANJAY KUMAR VISHWAKARMA.pdf','',1,'','','','',''),(1099,'38','Fixed Point Theorem in Complete Fuzzy Metric Space','Rajesh Shrivastava and Megha Shrivastava','Fixed Point Theorem in Complete Fuzzy Metric Space 8 MEGHA SHRIVASTAVA.pdf','',1,'','','','',''),(1100,'28','Critical Analysis of Banking Sector Reforms in India','Harsh Nandal','11-HARSH.pdf','',1,'','','','',''),(1101,'28','Analyzing the Inter-State Disparities in India: A Comprehensive Study','Harsh Nandal','12-HARSH.pdf','',1,'','','','',''),(1102,'28','Analyzing the Inter-State Disparities in India: A Comprehensive Study','Harsh Nandal','Analyzing the Inter-State Disparities in India A Comprehensive Study 12 HARSH.pdf','',1,'','','','',''),(1103,'38','Different Deterioration Rates of two Warehouse Inventory Model with\r\nTime and Price Dependent Demand under Inflation and Permissible\r\nDelay in Payments','Raman Patel','9_Different_Deterioration_Rates_of_two_Warehouse_Inventory_Model_with_Time_and_Price_Dependent_Demand_under_Inflation_and_Pe.pdf','',1,'','','','',''),(1104,'38','A Study of Heavy Metal Pollution of Ghaggar River','Ravi Kant Pareek1, Dr. Ambrina S. Khan2, Dr. Parteek Srivastava2 and Dr. Surendra Roy3','10_A_Study_of_Heavy_Metal_Pollution_of_Ghaggar_River_RAVI_PAREEK.pdf','',1,'','','','',''),(1105,'38','Two Warehouse Production Inventory Model with Different\r\nDeterioration Rates under Linear Demand and Time Varying Holding\r\nCost','S.R. Sheikh1 and R.D. Patel2','11Two_Warehouse_Production_Inventory_Model_with_Different_Deterioration_Rates_under_Linear_Demand_and_Time_Varying_Holding_Cost_SHEHNAZ_SHEIKH.pdf','',1,'','','','',''),(1106,'42','Antioxidant Profiling of Fungal Endophytes Isolated from a Critically\r\nEndangered Endemic Medicinal Plant, Artemisia amygdalina Decne.\r\nof Kashmir Himalayas','Humeera Nisa*, Azra N. Kamili*, Irshad A. Nawchoo** and Rubiya Dar*','2_Antioxidant_Profiling_of_Fungal_Endophytes_Isolated_from_a_Critically_Endangered_Endemic_Medicinal_Plant,_Artemisia_amygda.pdf','',1,'Micro-organisms living within a plant that causes asymptomatic infections entirely within the plant tissues are called as â€œendophytes.â€ These can be bacteria as well as fungi and can be isolated from different parts of plants. They have been observed to be saprophytic and are cultivable on agar. Medicinal plants had been used to isolate and characterize directly the bioactive metabolites. However, the discovery of fungal endophytes inside these plants with capacity to produce the same compounds shifted the focus of new drug sources from plants to fungi. This work is being conducted to test the hypothesis that endophytic fungi produce bioactive compounds which might have some pharmaceutical potential. This hypothesis is based on the rationale that endophytes are capable of protecting their host in adverse and diverse conditions by the production of many novel bioactive metabolites which can be a lead for the development of novel pharmaceutical agents against many diseases. When work','Endophytic fungi, Kashmir, A. amygdalina.','The data produced in the present study has provided a valuable insight and firsthand information on the diversity of endophytic mycoflora of an important medicinal plant species belonging to the genus Artemisia of Kashmir valley, A. amygdalina which is a critically endangered endemic plant of this region. It was observed that the endophytic fungal isolates collected in this study provided a good source of bioactive compounds. As this study reveals that the endophytic fungi, A. alternata isolated from this host plant showed the presence of potent antioxidant compounds in its extracts. Thus, this fungal endophyte could be a potent source of bioactive compounds which can be a prolific source of many important drugs. However, further purification, characterization and structural elucidation is required to predict the accurate mass of these molecules with therapeutic applications. This study reinforced the assumption that endophytes could be a promising source of antioxidant substances. How','-','Humeera Nisa, Azra N. Kamili, Irshad A. Nawchoo and Rubiya Dar (2018). Antioxidant Profiling of Fungal Endophytes Isolated from a Critically\r\nEndangered Endemic Medicinal Plant, Artemisia amygdalina Decne.\r\nof Kashmir Himalayas Biological Forum â€“ An Int'),(1107,'42','The Avifauna of the Khe Nuoc Trong Proposed Natural Reserve in\r\nQuang Binh Province, Central Vietnam','Ngo Xuan Tuong*,**, Le Trong Trai*** and Ha Van Nghia***','3_The_Avifauna_of_the_Khe_Nuoc_Trong_Proposed_Natural_Reserve_in_Quang_Binh_Province_Central_Vietnam.pdf','',1,'The Khe Nuoc Trong proposed natural reserve in central Vietnam harbors a diverse avifauna that remains under surveyed and poorly know. The first comprehensive ornithological inventory of the Khe Nuoc Trong was conducted from 2011 to 2015, and it was compared with those of other sites in central Vietnam. The study site is covered by evergreen tropical forest on lowlands with elevation under 1,000 m. A total of 210 bird species have been recorded from observation fieldwork and camera trapping in the study area, including four restricted-range species: Crested Argus Rheinardia ocellata, Short-tailed Scimitar Babbler Jabouilleia danjoui, Grey-faced Tit-babbler Macronous kelleyi and White-cheeked Laughing thrush Garrulax vassali. Hunting with snares is a major threat to galliformes and other ground-dwelling small and medium-sized animal. In terms of endemism, the study site is one of the top two sites of 11 Important Bird Areas in the Annamese Lowlands Endemic Bird Area in central Vietnam.','Avifauna, Khe Nuoc Trong, Natural Reserve, Quang Binh, Vietnam','The Khe Nuoc Trong proposed natural reserve in central Vietnam harbors a diverse avifauna that remains under surveyed and poorly know. The first comprehensive ornithological inventory of the Khe Nuoc Trong was conducted from 2011 to 2015, and it was compared with those of other sites in central Vietnam. The study site is covered by evergreen tropical forest on lowlands with elevation under 1,000 m. A total of 210 bird species have been recorded from observation fieldwork and camera trapping in the study area, including four restricted-range species: Crested Argus Rheinardia ocellata, Short-tailed Scimitar Babbler Jabouilleia danjoui, Grey-faced Tit-babbler Macronous kelleyi and White-cheeked Laughing thrush Garrulax vassali. Hunting with snares is a major threat to galliformes and other ground-dwelling small and medium-sized animal. In terms of endemism, the study site is one of the top two sites of 11 Important Bird Areas in the Annamese Lowlands Endemic Bird Area in central Vietnam.','-','Ngo Xuan Tuong, Le Trong Trai and Ha Van Nghia (2018). The Avifauna of the Khe Nuoc Trong Proposed Natural Reserve in Quang Binh Province, Central Vietnam Biological Forum â€“ An International Journal 10(1): 23-32.'),(1108,'38','Ground Water Pollution in India- A Review','Richa Gupta1, Prateek Srivastava1, Ambrina Sardar Khan1 and Ajay Kanaujia2','12_Ground_Water_Pollution_in_India_A_Review_12_IJTAS-92-2018-RICHA_GUPTA.pdf','',1,'','','','',''),(1109,'38','Isolation and Identification of Endophytic Fungi from\r\nArtemisia scoparia (Asteraceae)','Humeera Nisa1, Azra N. Kamili1, Irshad A. Nawchoo 2, Mohd. Skinder Bhat1\r\nand Ruqeya Nazir 1','13_Isolation_and_Identification_of_Endophytic_Fungi_from__13_IJTAS-93-2018-HUMEERA_NISA.pdf','',1,'','','','',''),(1110,'36','Prevention and detection of Black hole attack in MANET using Cipher\r\nSecurity and Blocking the Black Hole Node','Prachi Pathak* and Mohd. Amjad Quaz**','8_PRACHI_PATHAK.pdf','',1,'','','','',''),(1111,'40','Assessment of Some Macro Nutrients to Determine the Nutritional\r\nStatus of Anchar Lake of Kashmir Himalaya','Irfana Showqi1, Farooq Ahmad Lone1, Mohammad Aneesul Mehmood2, Mehrajuddin Naikoo3','9_Irfana_Showqi_Assessment.pdf','',0,'','','','',''),(1112,'40','Phytochemical Estimation of Tephrosia purpurea Seed extract','Muddasir Basheer, Seema Rai, Hindole Ghosh and Younis Ahmad Hajam','10_MUDDASIR-R.pdf','',0,'','','','',''),(1113,'40','Impacts of Urbanization on Quality of Environment in Jammu Region','Shahnawaz Ahmad Dar1, Tauseef Shaban1, Mohd Sajad Dar2 and Ramesh Bharadwaj3','11_Shahnawaz_Ahmad_Dar.pdf','',1,'','','','',''),(1114,'40','Reversal in Thyroid Gland Impairments by Exogenous Melatonin in\r\nStreptozotocin Induced Diabetic Male Rat Model','Younis Ahmad Hajam, Seema Rai, Hindole Ghosh, Muddasir Basheer and Neeraj Dewangan','12_Younis.pdf','',1,'','','','',''),(1115,'40','Assessment of Physico-Chemical Properties of Water and Sediments of Asan\r\nLake Dehradun, India','Irfan Rashid Sofi1, Pallavi P. Chuhan2, Harendra K. Sharma1 and Javid Manzoor1','13_IRFAN_RASHID_SOFI-F.pdf','',1,'','','','',''),(1116,'40','Pesticide Consumption and its Risks to the Human Health and\r\nEnvironment-A Review','Mohd Shahid Dar1, Mohd Yaqoob Dar2, Gaurav Sharma3 and R.J. Rao1','14_Shahid _DAR.pdf','',1,'','','','',''),(1117,'40','Assessment of Soil Organic Carbon Stock in Five Forest Types of\r\nNorthern Kashmir and Himalaya','Davood A. Dar and Paulami Sahu','15_DAVOOD_A_DAR.pdf','',1,'','','','',''),(1118,'38','A New Class of Generalized Laguerre Polynomials','L. K. Padhiary1 and Jyotshnamayee Rath2','LK PADHIARY.pdf','',1,'','','','',''),(1119,'38','A New Class of Generalized Laguerre Polynomials','L. K. Padhiary1 and Jyotshnamayee Rath2','LK PADHIARY.pdf','',0,'','','','',''),(1120,'40','Phytochemical, Pharmacological and Nutritional Profile of Chlorophytum tuberosum (Roxb.) Baker (Safed musli): a Review','Musadiq Hussain Bhat, Mufida Fayaz, Amit Kumar and Ashok Kumar Jain','Musadiq Hussain Bhat.pdf','',1,'','','','',''),(1121,'43','Studies on the Mammalian Diversity of Kaziranga National Park, Assam, India with their conservation status','Gaurav Sharma','3_JNBR_7(1)_2018.pdf','',1,'','','','',''),(1122,'44','A Image Encryption Scheme is Based on Scan Pattern for Colour Image','Satyam Pandey* and Prof. Amit Shrivastava**','1 SATYAM PANDEY.pdf','',1,'','','','',''),(1123,'44','Novel Image Noise Removal Technique Using Limited Pixel Analysis','Satendra Singh* and Prof. Amit Shrivastava**','2 SATENDRA SINGH.pdf','',1,'','','','',''),(1124,'44','Home Energy Control System Using Wireless Smart Socket and IoT','Shailendra Singh Rajpoot* and Anil Khandelwal**','3 SHAILENDRA SINGH RAJPOOT.pdf','',1,'','','','',''),(1125,'28','Career Stream Choice among Science, Commerce and Humanities Students','Dr. S. K. Yadav1 and Mamta Rani2','Career Stream Choice among Science Commerce and Humanities Students 13 MAMTA RANI-1.pdf','',1,'','','','',''),(1126,'28','Analysis of Entrepreneurship Development Programmes: A study of Jammu and Kashmir Entrepreneurship Development Institute','Irm Jalali Bodha','Analysis of Entrepreneurship Development Programmes A study of Jammu and Kashmir Entrepreneurship Development Institute 14 IRAM JALALI BODHA.pdf','',1,'','','','',''),(1127,'28','Web Application Design-Implementation of Web-based Career Stream Assessment System (WBCSAS)','Dr. S. K. Yadav1 and Mamta Rani2','Web Application Design-Implementation of Web-based Career Stream Assessment System (WBCSAS)15 MAMTA RANI.pdf','',0,'','','','',''),(1128,'38','Study of Medicinal Plants used by Local Herbal Healers in South Block of Seoni District (M.P.)','M.K. Thakur1 and Shubhangee Waske2','Study of Medicinal Plants used by Local Herbal Healers in South Block of Seoni District (M.P.) 15 Shubhangee Waske.pdf','',1,'','','','',''),(1129,'38','Bioremediation of Heavy Metal using Growing Cells in Industrial Effluent','R. Ramya1 and Dr. M. Boominathan2','Bioremediation of Heavy Metal using Growing Cells in Industrial Effluent 16 RAMYA.pdf','',1,'','','','',''),(1130,'38','Orientation, Scale and Location Invariant Character Recognition System using Neural Networks','Abhisehek Anand1 and Pankaj Bhambri2','Orientation Scale and Location Invariant Character Recognition System using Neural Networks 17 PANKAJ BHAMBRI.pdf','',1,'','','','',''),(1131,'33','Web Application Design-Implementation of Web-based Career Stream Assessment System (WBCSAS)','Dr. S. K. Yadav and Mamta Rani','Web Application Design-Implementation of Web-based Career Stream Assessment System (WBCSAS) MAMTA RAN.pdf','',1,'','','','',''),(1132,'42','Effect of Tea Cultivar on Density of some Predatory Insects and their Preys in Phu Tho Province, Vietnam','Vu Thi Thuong*,****, Hoang Gia Minh**, Truong Xuan Lam***,**** and Nguyen Thi Phuong Lien***,****','Effect of Tea Cultivar on Density of some Predatory Insects and their Preys in Phu Tho Province Vietnam Vu Thi Thuong.pdf','',1,'Density of predatory insects and their relationship to preys were much different across five tea cultivars (â€˜LDP1â€™, â€˜LDP2â€™, â€˜Trung Duâ€™, â€˜PH1â€™ and â€˜TRI777â€™) which are commonly planted in Phu Tho province, Vietnam. The population densities of predatory heteropterans Orius sauteri, Sycanus croceovittatus and their preys including the tea thrip Physothrips setiventri and a group of the leaf-eating lepidopterous caterpillars (Biston suppressaria, Darasa consosia, Acanthopsyche subera and Homona coffearia) were highest (1.53 Â± 0.06, 1.01 Â± 0.07, 64.3 Â± 0.7 and 2.03 Â± 0.13 individuals/m2 respectively) on â€˜Trung Duâ€™, lowest (0.57 Â± 0.01, 0.55 Â± 0.04, 51.7 Â± 1.3 and 1.75 Â± 0.07 individuals/m2 respectively) on â€˜LDP1â€™. The population densities of predatory coccinellids Micraspis discolor, Menochilus sexmaculatus and their prey, the tea aphid Toxoptera aurantii, were highest (1.84 Â± 0.04, 1.53 Â± 0.08 and 42.0 Â± 0.01 individuals/m2 respectively) on â€˜LDP1â€™','-','Four predatory insects exhibited their varied densities among five tea cultivars. SHeteropterans Orius sauteri, Sycanus croceovittatus and their preys including Physothrips setiventris and a group of four lepidopterous pests (Biston suppressaria, Darasa consosia, Acanthopsyche subera and Homona coffearia) had all their highest densities on â€˜Trung Duâ€™ with the close prey-predator correlation, while their lowest densities were on â€˜LDP1â€™, Coccinellids Micraspis discolor, Menochilus sexmaculatus and their prey, Viz, Toxoptera aurantii, had all their highest densities on â€˜LDP1â€™ with the close prey-predator correlation, while their lowest densities were on â€˜TRI777â€™.','-','Vu Thi Thuong, Hoang Gia Minh, Truong Xuan Lam, and Nguyen Thi Phuong Lien, (2018). Effect of Tea Cultivar on Density of some Predatory Insects and their Preys in Phu Tho Province, Vietnam, Biological Forum â€“ An International Journal 10(1): 33-36. '),(1133,'42','Argynnis hyperbius hybrida (Nymphalideae) the Nilgiri Fritillary: A life cycle record from the Nilgiris, Southern Western Ghats, India','Selvaraj Jeevith*, Sethumadhavan Manoj* and Chinnaiyan Rajasekar**','Argynnis hyperbius hybrida (Nymphalideae) the Nilgiri Fritillary A life cycle record from the Nilgiris, Southern Western Ghats, India 5 SELVARAJ JEEVITH.pdf','',1,'Argynnis hybrida Evans (1912) the Nilgiri Fritillary belongs to the family Nymphalidae, sub-family Heliconiinae. It belongs to an extremely heterogeneous group. This unique and endemic race, â€˜hybridaâ€™ is found only in the Nilgiri Hills of South India, while the other race â€˜castetsiâ€™ is found in the hills South of Nilgiris. The life cycle on its host plant Viola pilosa Blume is being reported after thirty years from the Nilgiris. The stages from egg to adult take 60-64 days at 26ËšC. The taxonomic description, distribution, larval performance with host plant and ecology are also discussed.','Biology, Nilgiri Fritillary, Argynnini, Viola pilosa, Nilgiris.','The present study provides first hand information on the ovipositing, larval host plant, larval performance and the length of life cycle from egg to adult eclosion of the Nilgiri Fritillary butterfly. There is no record of the butterfly species Argynnis hybrida early stages and biology reported elsewhere in India. Though Viola sp. (Violets) is host plant for Great Spangled Fritillary (Speyeria cybele cybele), Aphrodite Fritillary (Speyeria aphroditei), Silver-bordered Fritillary (Boloria selene myrina), Meadow Fritillary (Boloria bellona) and species such as Viola sagittata for Regal Fritillary (Speyeria idalia), V. tricolor for Spain Fritillary (Issoria lathonia) and Variegated Fritillary (Euptoieta claudia) in Michigan, Sweden, Turkey, Finland America and United Kingdom. Valeriana species plays larval host plant for Heath Fritillary butterflies Melitaea diamina and Mellicta athalia life history and ecology reported elsewhere (Warrens, 1987; Wahlberg, 1997). Therefore further research','-','Selvaraj Jeevith, Sethumadhavan Manoj and Chinnaiyan Rajasekar (2018). Argynnis hyperbius hybrida (Nymphalideae) the Nilgiri Fritillary: A life cycle record from the Nilgiris, Southern Western Ghats, India , Biological Forum â€“ An International Journal '),(1134,'42','A Preliminary Study on the Status and Distribution of Butterfly Fauna in and around the valley of Reetha Sahib, Champawat, Kumaun Himalaya, India','Aman Verma* and Manoj K. Arya**','A Preliminary Study on the Status and Distribution of Butterfly Fauna in and around the valley of Reetha Sahib, Champawat, Kumaun Himalaya, India 6AMAN VERMA.pdf','',1,'The present study was the first attempt to determine the status and distribution of butterflies in the valley of Meetha Reetha Sahib (Ladhiya valley) located in district Champawat, Uttarakhand. No previous information is available regarding the butterflies inhabiting this region, so the area was surveyed from August, 2016 to July, 2017 based on observations and sightings for records of the butterfly fauna. The study revealed a total of 2523 individuals of butterflies belonging to 62 species and five families. Nymphalidae was the most dominant family with 33 species and averaging 53.22% of the total recorded species of butterflies from the present study area, followed by Pieridae (10 species and 16.13%), Lycaenidae (10 species and 16.13%), Papilionidae (Six species and 9.68%) and Hesperiidae (Three species and 4.84%), respectively. Pieris brassicae (Linnaeus) was','Butterflies, Conservation, Diversity, Family, Himalayas, Seasons, Status. ','Our investigations on butterflies emphasises the importance of the study area in terms of preferred habitat providing them food and better breeding sites. The total numbers of recorded butterfly fauna from the present study site constituted 19.20% of butterflies from Uttarakhand, India. The provided information can be used for formulating any imperative measures on butterfly conservation that should be adopted for maintenance of sacrosanctity and sustainability of the habitat. It is also suggested that the present checklist should not be considered conclusive as there is a need for further elaborative studies and taxonomic additions from the present study site.','-','Aman Verma* and Manoj K. Arya (2018). A Preliminary Study on the Status and Distribution of Butterfly Fauna in and around the valley of Reetha Sahib, Champawat, Kumaun Himalaya, India , Biological Forum â€“ An International Journal ,10(1): 43-51. '),(1135,'43','Study of cognitive behaviour in non-human primate with special reference of Hanuman Langur,Semnopithecus entellus','Hemant Kumawat, Goutam Sharma, Anil Kumar Meena and L.S. Rajpurohit','4_JNBR_7(1)_2018.pdf','',1,'','','','',''),(1136,'40','Role of Physico-chemical Parameters in Determination of Trophic Status of an Urban Monomictic Lake in Kashmir, India','Aubid Bashir , Anuja Gupta, Mohammad Farooq Mir, Mohd Yaseen Gudoo, Sualiha Tabassum, Rifat Farooq and Muzamil Bashir','Role of Physico chemical Parameters in Determination of Trophic Status of an Urban Monomictic Lake in Kashmir India.pdf','',1,'','','','',''),(1137,'40','Temporal and Spatial Variations in Rotifer Density with Environmental Factors of Three Kashmir Lakes, India','Irfan Jamila','Temporal and Spatial Variations in Rotifer Density with Environmental Factors of Three Kashmir Lakes India Irfan Jamila.pdf','',1,'','','','',''),(1138,'40','Macroinvertebrates of Dal Lake: An Effort to Assess the Diversity, Abundance, Population Density and Trophic Status','Aubid Bashir, Anuja Gupta and Riyes Un Aziz3','Macroinvertebrates of Dal Lake An Effort to Assess the Diversity Abundance Population Density and Trophic Status AUBID BASHIR.pdf','',1,'','','','',''),(1139,'39','Spiritual Intelligence among Senior Secondary Students with Respect to Gender and Area','Jan Jahanger and Manzoor Ahmad Parray','Spiritual Intelligence among Senior Secondary Students with Respect to Gender and Area 7 JAN JAHANGER.pdf','',1,'','','','',''),(1140,'39','Honour Killing in India: A Challenging Facet of Human Rights','Dr. Nitu Nawal','Honour Killing in India A Challenging Facet of Human Rights 8 NITU NAWAL HONOUR KILLING.pdf','',1,'','','','',''),(1141,'39','The Social and Personal Development of Women through Empowerment','Deepak Sharma and Davinder Kumar Pandey','The Social and Personal Development of Women through Empowerment DEEPAK SHARMA WANI.pdf','',1,'','','','',''),(1142,'36','Parkinsonâ€™s disease Diagnosis using Modified PCA-KNN Classifier','Sakina Imam* and Prof. Sarwesh Site**','Parkinsons disease Diagnosis using Modified SAKINA.pdf','',1,'','','','',''),(1143,'38','Solar Energy based Refrigeration System using Peltier Device','Abhishek Sharma, Dr. Alka Bani Agrawal and Dr Nitin Shrivastava','Solar Energy based Refrigeration System using Peltier Device 18 ABHISHEK.pdf','',1,'','','','',''),(1144,'38','Treatment of Distillery Waste Water: A Review','Sanjay Patel and Jamaluddin','Treatment of Distillery Waste Water A Review SANJAY PATEL.pdf','',1,'','','','',''),(1145,'43','Acmella radicans (Jacquin) R.K. Jansen (Asteraceae)â€“A new distributional plant record for Jharkhand State (India) ','Jasbir Bagga and Umakant B. Deshmukh','5_JNBR_7(1)_2018.pdf','',1,'','','','',''),(1146,'43','First record of Asiatic Lesser Yellow House Bat, Scotophilus kuhlii Leach, 821\r\n(Mammalia: Chiroptera: Vespertilionidae) from Delhi, India ','Sumit Dookia* and Rajlakshmi Mishra ','6_JNBR_7(1)_2018.pdf','',1,'','','','',''),(1147,'42','Essential Oil from the Leaves of Crataegus oxyacantha: Chemical Composition and Antimicrobial Activity','O. Chouitah* and B. Meddah*','Essential Oil from the Leaves of Crataegus oxyacantha Chemical Composition and Antimicrobial Activity chouitah ourida sagren.pdf','',1,'In this study, we performed the chemical characterization of Crataegus oxyacantha essential oil from Algeria and the assessment of its bioactivity in terms antibacterial, activity as starting point for possible applicative uses.\r\nLeaves were analyzed its essential oil by gas chromatography-mass spectrometry (GC-MS) combined with the retention indices (RI). The antimicrobial activities of the EO on same food borne pathogens was tested. Twenty compounds, representing 90.04% of the total essential oil, were identified. Eugenol (24.27%) Longifolenaldehyde (17.46%), Î²-Selinene (15.6 %) were the main components. The antimicrobial activity of the essential oil was assayed against Gram-positive strains (Bacillus cereus, Staphylococcus aureus) and, Gram-negative strains (Escherichia coli, Pseudomonas aeruginosa, Salmonella typhi) all strains were sensitive to the essential oil.\r\n','Crataegus oxyacantha, leaves, Essential oil, antimicrobial activity, GC/SM.','In this study, we performed the chemical characterization of Crataegus oxyacantha essential oil from Algeria and the assessment of its bioactivity in terms antibacterial, activity as starting point for possible applicative uses.\r\nLeaves were analyzed its essential oil by gas chromatography-mass spectrometry (GC-MS) combined with the retention indices (RI). The antimicrobial activities of the EO on same food borne pathogens was tested. Twenty compounds, representing 90.04% of the total essential oil, were identified. Eugenol (24.27%) Longifolenaldehyde (17.46%), Î²-Selinene (15.6 %) were the main components. The antimicrobial activity of the essential oil was assayed against Gram-positive strains (Bacillus cereus, Staphylococcus aureus) and, Gram-negative strains (Escherichia coli, Pseudomonas aeruginosa, Salmonella typhi) all strains were sensitive to the essential oil.\r\n','-','O. Chouitah and B. Meddah (2018). Essential Oil from the Leaves of Crataegus oxyacantha: Chemical Composition and Antimicrobial Activity , Biological Forum â€“ An International Journal 10(1): 52-55. '),(1148,'38','Corrosion Inhibition of Mild Steel by Benzotriazole in 1M and 2M Sulfuric Acid Solution','Deepika Tanwar, Sandeep Kumar Gohar and P. Ram Sankar','Corrosion Inhibition of Mild Steel by Benzotriazole in 1M and 2M Sulfuric Acid Solution 20 DEEPIKA TANWAR.pdf','',1,'','','','',''),(1149,'38','Cooperative Diversity-based WBAN Structure with Rotational Precoding','Honey Raghuvanshi and Rupesh Dubey','Cooperative Diversity-based WBAN Structure with Rotational Precoding.pdf','',1,'','','','',''),(1150,'39','An Expedition through the Conceptual Structure and Implementation of the Experiential Taxonomy in Science Teaching','Viji V.','An Expedition through the Conceptual Structure and Implementation of the Experiential Taxonomy in Science Teaching VIJI VINESH.pdf','',1,'','','','',''),(1151,'39','Work Related Stress among Coal Mine workers: A study on select coal mines of Dhanbad & Jharia regions','Dr. Pradip Kumar Das','Work Related Stress among Coal Mine workers A study on select coal mines of Dhanbad & Jharia regions 11 DR PRADIP KUMAR DAS.pdf','',1,'','','','',''),(1152,'39','A Study of Relationship between Open Innovation & Business Model Innovation with Firm Performance','Deepika Kamboj','A Study of Relationship between Open Innovation & Business Model Innovation with Firm Performance 12-DEEPIKA KAMBOJ.pdf','',1,'','','','',''),(1153,'38','Structural & Optical Properties of Copper (Cu) doped Polyaniline','Ankit Gupta* and Mahendra Kumar**','Structural & Optical Properties of Copper (Cu) doped Polyaniline 22 ANKIT GUPTA.pdf','',1,'','','','',''),(1154,'38','Molecular Identification and Production of Urease Enzyme by Proteus vulgaris (ATCC 336)','A. Rebekkah Shanthakumariand Dr. M. Boominathan','Molecular Identification and Production of Urease Enzyme by Proteus vulgaris (ATCC 336) 22 A REBEKKAH SHANTHAKUMAR.pdf','',1,'','','','',''),(1155,'38','Traffic Prediction Techniques: A Review','Sabrina','Traffic Prediction Techniques A Review 24SABRENA MESH GARG.pdf','',1,'','','','',''),(1156,'38','Comparative Mutagenic Effectiveness and Efficiency of Sodium Azide and Gamma Radiation in Onion (Allium cepa L.)','Sushama A. Kirtane','Comparative Mutagenic Effectiveness and Efficiency of Sodium Azide and Gamma Radiation in Onion (Allium cepa L) 25 KIRTANE SUSHAMA.pdf','',1,'','','','',''),(1157,'38','Status and Importance of Biosphere Reserves in India','Dr. Sarla','Status and Importance of Biosphere Reserves in India 26 SARLA.pdf','',1,'','','','',''),(1158,'38','Online Library Management System with RFID','Sabrina','Online Library Management System with RFID 27 SABRINA-REVISED.pdf','',1,'','','','',''),(1159,'45','An Experimental Study of Soil Stabilization using Bio Enzyme','Sunil*, Vikram*, Sunil Kumar* and Ravi Kant Pareek**','IJET-14-2018-SUNIL.pdf','',1,'','','','',''),(1160,'39','Nature, Origin and Development of South Asian Association for Regional Cooperation','Irfan Ashraf Bhat1, A. P. Pandey2 and Sona Shukla1\r\n','13 Nature Origin and Development of South Asian Association for Regional Cooperation 13 IRFAN ASHRAF BHAT.pdf','',1,'','','','',''),(1161,'39','Character and Social Concerns: An Investigation of the Things Fall Apart by Chinua Achebe ','Aasif Ahmad Dar and Beena Lad ','14 Character and Social Concerns An Investigation of the Things Fall Apart by Chinua Achebe 14 AASIF AHMAD DAR.pdf','',1,'','','','',''),(1162,'39','A Comparative Evaluation of Economic Considerations of India-ASEAN and SAARC','Irfan Ashraf Bhat1, A. P. Pandey2 and Sona Shukla1\r\n','15 A Comparative Evaluation of Economic Considerations of India-ASEAN and SAARC 15 IRFAN ASHRAF BHAT.pdf','',1,'','','','',''),(1163,'38','Screening of Phytochemicals in Ethanolic Extract of Momordica charantia leaves and Semicarpus anacardium nuts','V. Rawat1*, Sahabjada1,2, N. Shivnath1, P. Gupta3, S. Rawat4 and M. Arshad1','Screening of Phytochemicals in Ethanolic Extract of Momordica charantia leaves and Semicarpus anacardium nuts 28 VINEETA RAWAT.pdf','',1,'','','','',''),(1164,'38','Efficiency of Paddy Residues as Substrates for Fungal Laccase Production','P.A. Geethanjali1 and M. Jayashankar2','Efficiency of Paddy Residues as Substrates for Fungal Laccase Production 29.pdf','',1,'','','','',''),(1165,'38','Implementation of working procedure on semi skill workers in textile industry for recovery of wastage by Taguchi method','Chirayu Pathrikar and Prof. Suresh Batni','Implementation of working procedure on semi skill workers in textile industry for recovery of wastage by Taguchi method 30 CHIRAYU PATHRIKAR.pdf','',1,'','','','',''),(1166,'40','Assessment of Physico-chemical Parameters and rotifera of Brarinambal basin of Dal Lake, Kashmir','Sameera Sira, Sualiha Tabassum and Aubid Bashir2','Assessment of Physico-chemical Parameters and rotifera of Brarinambal basin of Dal Lake Kashmir 20 Sameera Siraj_Paper.pdf','',1,'','','','',''),(1167,'39','Postmodernism and the Novels of Amitav Ghosh: A Comparison','Sheikh Muzafar Rashid and Beena Lad','Postmodernism and the Novels of Amitav Ghosh A Comparison 16 SHEIKH M RASHID.pdf','',1,'','','','',''),(1168,'43','Some new and interesting hyphomycetes from Siwalik region of Punjab','Rajeev Sharma and I. B. Prasher*','7_JNBR_7(1)_2018.pdf','',1,'','','','',''),(1169,'42','Effects of Vermicompost and Hog Manure on Growth, Yield and Antioxidant Activity of Agrimonia pilosa Ledeb as a Medicine Plant','Quang-Ung Le, Horng-Liang Lay, Ming-Chang Wu, Tien-Dung Nguyen and Thi Thu-Dung Cao','Effects of Vermicompost and Hog Manure on Growth Yield and Antioxidant Activity of Agrimonia pilosa Ledeb as a Medicine Plant 8 QUANG- UNG LE.pdf','',1,'The effects of different vermicompost and hog manure rates on growth, yield, total flavonoid and phenolic content, antioxidant activity of Agrimonia pilosa Ledeb (AL) were investigated. Nine treatments were applied, combining vermicompost (VC) with hog manure (HM) at rates: 0 + 0 (control treatment, T1), 0 + 11.25 (T2), 0 +16.875 (T3), 12.5 + 0 (T4), 12.5 +11.25 (T5), 12.5 + 16.875 (T6), 25 + 0 (T7), 25 +11.25 (T8), 25 +16.875 ton ha-1 (T9). The results demonstrated that pH between 6.9 and 7.4, EC from 0.5-0.6 mS cm-1 are optimal for herbal growth. Additionally, P2OÂ¬5, K2O5 and Mn had coherent coefficient with herbal quality. A mixture of the VC and HM made with the rate of 12.5 + 16.875 ton ha-1 produced best parameters and is therefore recommended that these fertilizers served as potential source of nutrient for the AL. Further detailed investigations of them for other herbs are in progress.','Agrimonia, Herbal quality, Growth, Vermicompost, Yield','In conclusion, this study provides scientific proofs for benefits of organic fertilizer application in herbal productions.\r\n It may be concluded that VC and HM could be seen as great potential component of growing media. Our results reveal that pH between 6.9 and 7.4, EC from 0.5-0.6 mS cm-1 are good for growth, yield and pharmaceutical quality of AL, which is an important characteristics in AL production. In addition, application of VC and hog manure (12.5 +16.875 ton ha-1) mixture produced the highest parameters of this herb and is therefore recommended.\r\n','-','Quang-Ung Le, Horng-Liang Lay, Ming-Chang Wu, Tien-Dung Nguyen and Thi Thu-Dung Cao (2018). Effects of Vermicompost and Hog Manure on Growth, Yield and Antioxidant Activity of Agrimonia pilosa Ledeb as a Medicine Plant Biological Forum â€“ An Internationa'),(1170,'42','New Distributional Records of Bird Species to Andaman and Nicobar Islands, India','G. Gokulakrishnan, C. Sivaperuman*, Minakshi Dash and Sayanthan Das**','New Distributional Records of Bird Species to Andaman and Nicobar Islands India 9 Dr C SIVAPERUMAN.pdf','',1,'In this paper we report ten species of birds which are new additions to the avifauna of Andaman and Nicobar Islands.','Andaman, Distribution, Migratory Birds, Nicobar ','In this paper we report ten species of birds which are new additions to the avifauna of Andaman and Nicobar Islands.','-','G. Gokulakrishnan, C. Sivaperuman*, Minakshi Dash and Sayanthan Das (2018). New Distributional Records of Bird Species to Andaman and Nicobar Islands, India Biological Forum â€“ An International Journal, 10(1): 63-68'),(1171,'42','Phylogenetic Exploration of Acacia nilotica: A Commonly used Medicinal Plant in Himachal Pradesh','Deepika Rana','Phylogenetic Exploration of Acacia nilotica A Commonly used Medicinal Plant in Himachal Pradesh 10 DEEPIKA RANA.pdf','',1,'Acacia nilotica belongs to family, Fabaceae. This family is known to contain highest number of species. The genetic diversity and relationship of six samples of Acacia nilotica collected from different geographical regions of Himachal Pradesh, was studied. The regions selected for the analysis were: Solan, Sirmour, Mandi, Bilaspur, Una and Hamirpur. Using RAPD analysis, a total of 12 arbitrary primers were screened while 7 primers showed amplifications. Out of total 68 bands, total 7 monomorphic and 61 polymorphic bands were scored. The percentage of polymorphism shown by the primers was 89%. The genetic diversity was estimated by constructing dendrogram using UPGMA method. The six samples of Acacia nilotica were divided into two major clusters. The genotypes of Mandi district showed 44% similarity with the genotypes of Bilaspur district. The genetic similarity between genotypes of Sirmour, Mandi, Bilaspur, Una was 30.2%. The present study revealed that the variation exists among the d','Acacia nilotica, RAPD, genetic variation, polymorphism.','A. nilotica have certain important secondary metabolites that confer different pharmacological activities, which can be useful for mankind. This tree is perennial in nature and that may be the reason for this type of variations. For the conservation of a particular plant species the accurate assessment of genetic diversity is an important objective. The present study might be helpful in the field of genetic variability in A. nilotica. As results of the present study concluded that A. nilotica collected from different geographical areas of Himachal Pradesh possess a certain level of genetic diversity. This study indicated that RAPD is sufficiently informative and powerful technique to detect genetic variability in natural populations of A. nilotica. From this study it was concluded that geographical diversity is important and associated with the sole factor of determining the genetic diversity in A. nilotica.','-','Deepika Rana (2018). Phylogenetic Exploration of Acacia nilotica: A Commonly used Medicinal Plant in Himachal Pradesh, Biological Forum â€“ An International Journal 10(1): 69-74. '),(1172,'42','The Biology and Economic Damage of European red mites, Panonychus ulm Koch (Acari: Tetranychidae) in Orchards of Ganderbal Kashmir Valley, India','Tajamul Nissar*, Neelam Kumari**, Azad Gull*** and Mansoor Ahmad Mir****','The Biology and Economic Damage of European red mites, Panonychus ulm Koch (Acari Tetranychidae) in Orchards of Ganderbal Kashmir Valley, India 11 TAJAMUL NISSAR.pdf','',1,'The aim of the present work is to study the Biology and Economic damage of Panonychus ulmi (Koch) in the orchards of Ganderbal, Kashmir Valley, Jammu & Kashmir, India. For the sake of convenience 3 orchards were selected from Lar, 3 from Safapora and 3 from Kangan. According to the plan visits were conducted and the results were noticed. To obtain economic damage, the net productivity of selected orchards with heavy infestation was measured in relation to the non infested orchards of same area, containing equal number of trees. The binomial (Presence-Absence) of sampling scheme of European red mite was also done during the project. 5 to 10 leaves from five to ten trees scattered throughout a zone selected for investigation. Leaves were scanned with the help of hand lens to determine whether or not mites were present. The table results clearly indicate that the orchard selected from Kangan location was heavily infested followed by Safapora and, Lar was least infested. The results were f','Mites, infestation, economy, orchards,','The work undertaken was completed in the set time of 5 months and it was conclude that, European Red Mite Â¬(Panonychus ulmi Koch) is a major tree fruit pest in Jammu and Kashmir attacking fruits particularly apple with specificity on its Red Delicious species. However, mild attack on apricot and peach was also been reported from various parts of valley including Ganderbal. Moreover its attack on some generas of Roseacea family in the vale has also been brought in notice. The fecundity of the European Red Mite (Panonychus ulmi) which was the core part of the study of biology of the said pest was determined in the laboratory. To calculate cumulative mite days, average number of mites per leaf of two successive mite counts was taken, it was multiplied by the number of days between the count, and the result was added to the running total. Since mite population have a single peak, the peak population level is related to the total number of mite days. The binomial (Presence-Absence) of sa','-','Tajamul Nissar, Neelam Kumari, Azad Gull and Mansoor Ahmad Mir (2018). The Biology and Economic Damage of European red mites, Panonychus ulm Koch (Acari: Tetranychidae) in Orchards of Ganderbal Kashmir Valley, India , Biological Forum â€“ An International'),(1173,'42','Efficacy of Cinnamon in Ameliorating Streptozotocin-induced Diabetic Liver Injury in Rats: Histological and Biochemical Studies','Mona R. Alshathly* , Amal A. E. Ibrahim*,** and Amira H. El-Etriby*','Efficacy of Cinnamon in Ameliorating Streptozotocin-induced Diabetic Liver Injury in Rats Histological and Biochemical Studies 12 MONA R. ALSHATHLY.pdf','',1,'Natural herbs are considered beneficial and useful in alternative medicine with increasing research interest on their role in treating diseases. This study was designed to investigate the efficacy of cinnamon as a therapeutic agent for controlling hyperglycaemia and protecting liver tissue in diabetic rats. Experimental animals were divided into treated and untreated groups. Results showed body and liver weights decreased after six weeks of streptozotocin injection. The administration of cinnamon revealed a significant bodyweight increase compared to diabetic untreated group and restored liver enzyme levels as well as a decrease in glucose levels. Histological observation showed marked protection against hepatocytes nuclear and degenerative changes induced by diabetes, which concorded with the biochemical results.','Diabetes - Rat Hepatocytes - Liver Functions â€“ Histology â€“ Cinnamon â€“ Metformin','Cinnamon is well known for its antioxidant effect beside its activity in controlling diabetes. Histological supported by biochemical investigation proved its hepatoprotective effect against STZ induced diabetic changes in rat liver. Further studies will be done to identify its exact mechanism regarding controlling blood glucose level and antagonizing oxidative stress impact on liver tissue.','-','Mona R. Alshathly , Amal A. E. Ibrahim, and Amira H. El-Etriby (2018). Efficacy of Cinnamon in Ameliorating Streptozotocin-induced Diabetic Liver Injury in Rats: Histological and Biochemical Studies Biological Forum â€“ An International Journal 10(1): 82'),(1174,'38','Inventory Model for Imperfect Quality and Repairable items with Varying Deterioration','B.T. Naik and Raman Patel','Inventory Model for Imperfect Quality and Repairable items with Varying Deterioration 31 RAMAN PATEL.pdf','',1,'','','','',''),(1175,'38','On Common Fixed Point of Compatible Mappings of Type(P) for Six Self Maps','Bathini Raju,*and V. Nagaraju','On Common Fixed Point of Compatible Mappings of Type for Six Self Maps 32 BATHINI RAJU.pdf','',1,'','','','',''),(1176,'38','Some Fixed Point Results for Single and Two Maps in 2- Metric Space','Geetanjali Sharma, Akshay Sharma and Pankaj Tiwari3','Some Fixed Point Results for Single and Two Maps in 2- Metric Space 33 GEETANJALI SHARMA.pdf','',1,'','','','',''),(1177,'43','Some Noteworthy Additions To Family Phanerochaetaceae From District Shimla (Himachal Pradesh)','Maninder Kaur, Ramandeep Kaur, Avneet Pal Singh* & Gurpaul Singh Dhingra','8_JNBR_7(1)_2018.pdf','',1,'','','','',''),(1178,'42','Gut Microbiota of Cotton Leafworm (Spodoptera littoralis): A brief Review','Ahmed M. H. Ali*,** and Emad M. Abdallah*','Gut Microbiota of Cotton Leafworm (Spodoptera littoralis) A brief Review 13 AHMED M H ALI AND EMAD M ABDALLAH.pdf','',1,'Gut microbiota of insects is essential for their survival. They play an important role in nutrition, modulation of immune responses, protection from pathogens and communication. The cotton leaf worm (Spodoptera littoralis) is a serious polyphagous pest in Egypt which attacks a wide range of cultivated plants in Egypt alone. It is difficult to control with the regular insecticides and other control measures. In this brief review, the gut microbiota of Spodoptera littoralis is discussed in the context of understanding more about the bioactive interactions and relationships of microorganisms inside this pest for developing new strategies of effective biological control as an alternative to the current chemical control.','-','The cotton leafworm (Spodoptera littoralis), is a serious polyphagous pest herbivore that consumes huge amounts of economic plants in a short period of time. However, studies on the gut microbiota of this pest are still not adequate and only a few reports comparing metabolic activities in the microflora of this insect associated with lifecycle stages. Interestingly, these few studies revealed relatively low phylum-level diversity compared to vertebrates. However, the bacterial population of Spodoptera littoralis plays an important role in its metabolic activities and defense mechanism against plant phytochemicals and insecticides. Understanding these mechanisms could lead to the development of effective biocontrol strategies.','-','Ahmed M. H. Ali, and Emad M. Abdallah (2018). Gut Microbiota of Cotton Leafworm (Spodoptera littoralis): A brief Review Biological Forum â€“ An International Journal 10(1): 92-95. '),(1179,'45','An Experimental Study of Soil Stabilization using Marble Dust','Anukant Lohia, Er. Sunil Kumar and Er. Vikram','IJET-15-2018-ANUKANT LOHIA.pdf','',1,'','','','',''),(1180,'42','Effects of Triacontanol on some Qualitative and Quantitative traits in Kiwifruit','Mostafyi Akram','Effects of Triacontanol on some Qualitative and Quantitative traits in Kiwifruit 14 AKRAM MOSTAFAYI.pdf','',1,'Kiwifruit is one of the most important subtropical fruits enjoying high nutritional value. Considering the importance of this fruit, itâ€™s lower calorie and positive effects of triacontanol (TRIA) on the plant growth stimulation and increased cellular division in them, the present research study aims to investigate effects of TRIA on qualitative and quantitative properties of Kiwifruit (Abubakar, Ashraf, & Ashraf, 2013). Hence, Kiwifruit treatment was conducted at different levels of the compound in the form of an entirelyrandomised design with four repetitions. Then, quantitative properties of the fruit including length to width ratio, volumetric mass and the fruit weight were studied along with qualitative properties such as stiffness rate, solids percent in solution (TSS), acidity (TA), Ascorbic acid rate and phenolic compounds amount. Finally, investigation of all treatments indicated that TRIA, which is a natural compound couldbe used as a promising compound in the improvement of','Kiwifruit, triacontanol, ascorbic acid, phenolic compound','Investigation of the results of current study indicates that Triacontanol (TRIA) has positive effects on qualitative and quantitative features of Kiwifruit, which can be used as a natural compound in the improvement of features of Kiwifruit. However our study is limited in its scope, Triacontanol effects during post-harvest storage under both room and low temperatures. Need to be investigated. Low temperature storage could enhance anthocyanin accumulation, and induce the expression of several structural and regulatory genes related to biosynthesis and molecular mechanisms need to be further addressed.','-','Mostafyi Akram (2018). Effects of Triacontanol on some Qualitative and Quantitative traits in Kiwifruit, Biological Forum â€“ An International Journal 10(1): 96-100. '),(1181,'42','Isolation, Characterization and Identification of Microorganisms from Distillery Effluent Contaminated Soil and Ex- situ Bioremediation of Contaminated Soil','Janmeet Kour*, P. K. Chauhan** and Kanika Dulta**','Isolation, Characterization and Identification of Microorganisms from Distillery Effluent Contaminated Soil and Ex- situ Bioremediation of Contaminated Soil 15 JANMEET KOUR.pdf','',1,'In the present study the effluent samples were collected from the distillery industry situated at Kasauli, Solan, Himachal Pradesh, India. Then the samples were subjected to heavy metal analysis and isolation of heavy metal resistant bacteria. The study revealed the presence of six heavy metals i.e. Pb, Cd, Zn, Cu, Mg and Cr in the distillery effluent contaminated soil. All the heavy metals were above the permitted limits, i.e. Pb (189.02 mg/kg), Cd (5.59 mg/kg), Zn (590 mg/kg), Cu (1065.27 mg/kg), Mg (409 mg/kg) and Cr (196.20 mg/kg). The four isolates were selected based on heavy metal tolerance and antibiotic resistances. These heavy metal resistant strains were characterized and identified on the basis of 16S rRNA sequencing as Proteus vulgaris, Bacillus subtilis, Micrococcus luteus and Bacillus cereus. These selected isolates were examined for their heavy metal uptake capacity and found that isolates had potential for metal uptake. Ex-situ bioremediation was carried out using micr','Distillery effluent, heavy metals, 16S rRNA sequencing, ex-situ bioremediation','Environmental laws have become stringent, discharge of the effluent within the permissible limit is mandatory in the developed and developing countries. The distillery wastewater treatment methods practiced by large-scale holders comprise physicochemical methods requiring a large surface area for the set up of effluent treatment plant and technically trained personnel with efficient management skills. It adds to the cost of the treatment process, making it cost intensive. Therefore, biological treatment methods are considered to be ideal and economical. In the present investigation six heavy metals (Pb, Cd, Zn, Cu, Mg and Cr) were detected in distillery effluent contaminated soil. Isolation and screening was carried out to isolate heavy metal resistant bacteria capable of tolerating high concentrations (1000 mg/l) of metal salts. Four selected strains were characterized and identified on the basis of biochemical tests and 16S rRNA sequencing. The four strains were confirmed as Proteus ','-','Janmeet Kour, P. K. Chauhan and Kanika Dulta. (2018). Isolation, Characterization and Identification of Microorganisms from Distillery Effluent Contaminated Soil and Ex- situ Bioremediation of Contaminated Soil, Biological Forum â€“ An International Journ'),(1182,'42','Evaluation of Soil Application Amendment Effect of Anti-salt Materials (Gypsum, Humic acid fertilizer and antisaltÂ® fertilizer) on the Yield of Pistachio ','Zohreh Jalali*, Bahman Panahi** and Abbass Mirhajian***','Evaluation of Soil Application Amendment Effect of Anti-salt Materials (Gypsum Humic acid fertilizer and antisalt fertilizer) on the Yield of Pistachio 16 BAHMAN PANAHI.pdf','',1,'In order to evaluation of soil application amendment effect of anti-salt materials (gypsum, humic acid fertilizer and antisaltÂ® fertilizer) on the yield of pistachio, an experiment was carried out on one acre â€œAkbariâ€ cultivar of pistachio orchard for 2 years by using completely randomized block design with three replications and 7 treatments in Ghatroyeh region near Neyriz city in Fars province. Treatments were: gypsum (1500 and 3000 Kg/h), humic acid (1500 and 3000 Kg/h), antisaltÂ® fertilizer (1500 and 3000 Kg/h) and control (without anti salt compounds). According to sampling from 2 different layers of the soil, data analysis was done in completely randomized block design based on factorial. Factors included anti-salt treatments (in 7 levels) and different layers of the soil (in 2 level of 0-40 cm and 40-80 cm depth of the soil). The treatments implicated in autumn and samplings of soil properties (EC, pH, ESP, SAR and lime percentage) were done 2 years later in September from','Akbari, pistachio, anti-salt, humic acid, gypsum','In order to evaluation of soil application amendment effect of anti-salt materials (gypsum, humic acid fertilizer and antisaltÂ® fertilizer) on the yield of pistachio, an experiment was carried out on one acre â€œAkbariâ€ cultivar of pistachio orchard for 2 years by using completely randomized block design with three replications and 7 treatments in Ghatroyeh region near Neyriz city in Fars province. Treatments were: gypsum (1500 and 3000 Kg/h), humic acid (1500 and 3000 Kg/h), antisaltÂ® fertilizer (1500 and 3000 Kg/h) and control (without anti salt compounds). According to sampling from 2 different layers of the soil, data analysis was done in completely randomized block design based on factorial. Factors included anti-salt treatments (in 7 levels) and different layers of the soil (in 2 level of 0-40 cm and 40-80 cm depth of the soil). The treatments implicated in autumn and samplings of soil properties (EC, pH, ESP, SAR and lime percentage) were done 2 years later in September from','-','Zohreh Jalali, Bahman Panahi and Abbass Mirhajian (2018). Evaluation of Soil Application Amendment Effect of Anti-salt Materials (Gypsum, Humic acid fertilizer and antisaltÂ® fertilizer) on the Yield of Pistachio Biological Forum â€“ An International Jou'),(1183,'42','Termites in Sericulture and its Management','Rajesh Kumar, Nang Sena Manpoong and N.I. Singh','Termites in Sericulture and its Management 17 DR RAJESH KUMAR.pdf','',1,'Termites are better known as destroyer of wood and wood products. However, several plants of economic importance are also victims of depredation by termites. Among the sericulture plants commonly damaged by termites are Mulberry, Arjun, Asan, Sal, Oak, Som and Soalu plants. Mulberry plants are also attacked by this pest. The species of termites commonly served damaging these plants are Odontotermes obesus, Microtermes obesi (Hols), Coptotermes heimi (Wasm). Sericulture industry provides employment to tribal people of many countries in rural and semi-urban areas and plays an important role in the GDP of a country. Termites have also been reported to damage various sericultural infrastructures and host plants in the field. Termiteâ€™s damage in sericulture of cellulose material in human dwellings has assumed serious proportions in recent years primarily due to advancement of civilizations and clearance of areas that form natural sources of food for termites. Only few paper has been publi','Sericulture, muga, eri, mulberry, oak tasar and tasar, termite species ','Termites plays a pivotal role in sericulture industry, which cause 20-30% damage to plantation, rearing houses and grainage houses. Elevation in temperature is an important factor for termitesâ€™ diversity. Various termitesâ€™ functional groups respond differently to temperature, due to their different feeding habits (Davies et al. 2003; Inoue et al. 2006). However, temperature is the key factor, which influences the termite diversity and another side rain plays a negative role in tropical rain forest ecosystem (Bignell and Eggleton 2000). India is having all the climate zones temperate, tropical, sub-tropical and rain forest ecosystems. In forest ecosystem, termite is not considered as a problem, but it considered as a beneficial insects, which help in degradation of falling trees and composting. But, termites are major problem not even in sericulture but also in agriculture and horticulture. Most of the termites are controlled through cultural / mechanical control by using fire and p','-','Rajesh Kumar, Nang Sena Manpoong and N.I. Singh (2018). Termites in Sericulture and its Management Biological Forum â€“ An International Journal 10(1): 118-124.'),(1184,'42','Algorithm: Fuzzification of Anti-Mullerian Hormone and Thyroid','Nutan Verma, Vivek Raich and Sharad Gangele*','Algorithm Fuzzification of Anti-Mullerian Hormone and Thyroid 18 NUTAN VERMA.pdf','',1,'Presented research work introduces a new fuzzy equation based mathematical methodology using fuzzy logics, fuzzified Anti-Mullerian Hormone (AMH) and Thyroid (TSH), predicts AMH and TSH hormonal profile. Predictions like what is its current status either it is Low, Normal or High. This technique developed using trapezoidal membership function and if-then rule. There are three trapezoidal membership functions Î¼_L, Î¼_N and Î¼_H as Low, Normal and High respectively. Traditionally individual medical expert prediction against hormone variation may or may not vary because these estimations are based on individuals experience. Proposed methodology will give a common prediction more accurately and easily. ','Infertility; AMH- Anti-Mullerian Hormone; TSH-Thyroid; Î¼_L is low fuzzy membership function; Î¼_N is normal fuzzy membership function; Î¼_H is high fuzzy membership function; Menstrual Cycle.','This investigation presents an innovative methodology to predict hormonal profile of AMH and TSH like what is its current status either it is Low, Normal or High. This technique fuzzify the normal reference range and gives a common computerized prediction against normal reference range which improve analysis and this will give more accuracy to the female infertility diagnosis and management by avoiding variation in the medical expertâ€™s prediction contrary to the same medical situation. Presented fuzzification technique executed with trapezoidal membership function ÂµL, ÂµN and ÂµH based on if-then rule restricted for healthy, adult and non-pregnant female. An algorithm is also designed to give better and easy understanding to the methodology.','-','Nutan Verma, Vivek Raich and Sharad Gangele (2018). Algorithm: Fuzzification of Anti-Mullerian Hormone and Thyroid Biological Forum â€“ An International Journal 10(1): 125-128.'),(1185,'42','The Physiology and Biochemistry of Kiwifruit (Actinidia deliciosa)','Mostafyi Akram','The Physiology and Biochemistry of Kiwifruit (Actinidia deliciosa) 19 MOSTAFYI AKRAM.pdf','',1,'Kiwi fruit is cultivated in many parts of the world and has generating income among a large group of population. The physiology and biochemistry of Kiwi plays an important part in understating its role in food chemistry. The in vivo and in vitro studies have revealed that kiwi cause different natural impacts like antiviral (hostile to HIV) action, protection against oxidative DNA damage and anticancer action. Free radical-induced oxidative stress has been related with a few lethal cell forms, including oxidative harm to protein and DNA, film lipid oxidation, compound inactivation, and quality transformations may prompt carcinogenesis. The present study is an attempt to review the physiology and biochemistry of Kiwi. ','Kiwi, physiology, biochemistry, impacts','Kiwifruit is rich in bioactive compounds such as vitamin C, vitamin E, flavonoids, carotenoids, and minerals and others. It is repository of different biochemical that helps in the prevention of different diseases. However, the hypersensitivity to Kiwi fruit is a cause of concern for few individuals. Kiwifruit are harvested mature and unripe, and considerable fruit softening must take place before fruits can be eaten and allergen sensitivity must be checked. Several studies reported large changes in a number of physiological and chemical changes not only in whole fruit but also in different tissue types within the fruit.','-','Mostafyi Akram (2018). The Physiology and Biochemistry of Kiwifruit (Actinidia deliciosa) Biological Forum â€“ An International Journal 10(1): 129-133.'),(1186,'47','Study of multi drug resistance pattern in the bacterial samples isolated from neonatal blood samples','Kaiser Ahmad Wani, Abida Malik, Irfan Mohiudin, Sumira Tyub','1_JNBR_7(2)_2018.pdf','',1,'','','','',''),(1187,'47','A case of partial Albinism in Red vented Bulbul (Pycnonotus cafer) from Central Aravalli Foothills, Rajasthan ','Vivek Sharma, Divaker Yadav, Meena Kumari, Akansha Verma and Shahin Bano Sheikh','2_JNBR_7(2)_2018.pdf','',1,'','','','',''),(1188,'20','Role of Government in Maintaining the public health of Jammu and Kashmir (A study of two District hospitals, one sub- District hospital, one Primary health centre and one State Hospital of Jammu and Kashmir) ','Irm Jalali Bodha and Majid Amin2','Role of Government in Maintaining the public health of Jammu and Kashmir (A study of two District hospitals one sub- District hospital one Primary health centreIRAM.pdf','',1,'','','','',''),(1189,'20','Health Care Services of Jammu and Kashmir: A study Hospitals of Jammu and Kashmir','Irm Jalali Bodha','Health Care Services of Jammu and Kashmir A study Hospitals of Jammu and Kashmir 9 IRAM.pdf','',1,'','','','',''),(1190,'38','Floristic Diversity in the Wetlands of Kota District, Rajasthan â€“A Survey of Abhera Pond','Sulekha Joshi','Floristic Diversity in the Wetlands of Kota District Rajasthanâ€“A Survey of Abhera Pond 34 DR SULEKHA JOSHI.pdf','',1,'','','','',''),(1191,'38','Comparative Study of Grafting Kinetics of N-Vinyl Imidazole and 4-Vinyl Pyridine onto Cellulose','Dr. Surya Kant','Comparative Study of Grafting Kinetics of N-Vinyl Imidazole and 4-Vinyl Pyridine onto Cellulose 35 SURYAKANT.pdf','',1,'','','','',''),(1192,'38','Fuzzy Computerized Profile Prediction of Luteinizing Hormone','Nutan Verma, Vivek Raich and Sharad Gangele ','Fuzzy Computerized Profile Prediction of Luteinizing Hormone 36 NUTAN VERMA.pdf','',1,'','','','',''),(1193,'38','Imbalance due to Pesticide Contamination in Different Ecosystems','Ratan Mishra, Rafiq Lone, Javid Manzoor and Razia Shuab','Imbalance due to Pesticide Contamination in Different Ecosystems 37 RAFIQ LONE.pdf','',1,'','','','',''),(1194,'38','Water Pollution due to Pesticides and its Impact: A Review','Tariq Ahmad Wani, Rafiq Lone and Deepmala Pathak ','Water Pollution due to Pesticides and its Impact A Review 38 RAFIQ LONE.pdf','',1,'','','','',''),(1195,'42','Effects of Sodium Nitroprusside (SNP) on Kiwifruit Growth under Drought Stress','Mostafyi Akram','Effects of Sodium Nitroprusside (SNP) on Kiwifruit Growth under Drought Stress 20 AKRAM.pdf','',1,'Stress is one of the important factor that limits the growth of plant under different conditions mainly during drought. However, the natural mechanism of the plants prevent drought stress by increasing water uptake or decreasing water loss and water stress may cause oxidative damage. This may cause reactive oxygen species (ROS) to become active that could damage cell membranes. Different treatments were tested for drought resistance. However, sodium nitroprusside (SNP) can be noted as an external treatment in resistance to drought stress. It stimulates antioxidant enzymes that cause scavenging of ROS. The present study was conducted by taking two year old seedlings and were grown in pots. The seedlings were stressed at two levels at 100% FC and 40% FC and four SNP levels were used as a treatment in the form of 0, 0.1, 0.5, and 1 mM levels on kiwifruit seedlings. The different effects like stomatal conductance, RWC, Peroxidase (POD) enzyme amount, polyphenoloxidase (PPO) enzyme ','sodium nitroprusside, stress, improvement and productivity','Considering the importance of the plantâ€™s coping way with stress and with regard to the effects of SNP as an external treatment under drought stress condition and improvement of antioxidant system of the plant under such conditions by SNP. It can be conculded that that the compound can be used as a healthy, economical and effective compound in coping with drought stress condition.','-','Mostafyi Akram (2018) Effects of Sodium Nitroprusside (SNP) on Kiwifruit Growth under Drought Stress , Biological Forum â€“ An International Journal 10(1): 134-137.'),(1196,'44','Content-Aware Dark Image Enhancement in Image Fusion Techniques','Raksha Chouhan and Prof. Abhilasha Vyas','IJEECE-1080-RAKSHA CHOUHAN.pdf','',1,'','','','',''),(1197,'44','Performance STBC Site Diversity Technique in Peak-to-Average Power Code-allocation Ratio Based Reduction Technique for MC-CDMA','Urwashi Sad and Prof. Amrita Khera','IJEECE-1082-URWASHI.pdf','',1,'','','','',''),(1198,'44','High Speed Low Power Buffer Amplifier for TFT-LCD Application','Richa Mishra and Aman Saraf','IJEECE-1079-RICHA MISHRA.pdf','',1,'','','','',''),(1199,'42','Desert Plant-Fungal Endophytic Association: The Beneficial Aspects to their Hosts','Abeer H. Ali*, Usama Radwan* , Soad El-Zayat* and Magdi A. El-Sayed*,**','Desert Plant-Fungal Endophytic Association The Beneficial Aspects to their Hosts 21 ABEER H ALI.pdf','',1,'Dry environments have plants with special adaptations enable them to live on nutrient poor soils, in high temperature and with a scarcity of water, one of the most important features of these plants are the ability to establish symbiosis relation with different microorganisms. It is very important to study and take advantage of the mechanisms of the phenomenon of plant-microbes interaction to make a worldwide mutation in the biotechnological potential of efficient partnerships for agriculture and a range of applications. Desert plants could survive in extreme conditions via microbial association. Fungal endophytes afford special adaptation for these plants and improve their performance and resistance against biotic and abiotic stresses through production of bioactive compounds which certainly increase the adaptability of both endophytic fungi and their host plants. Although little studies investigate desert plants-fungal endophyte association but there is a great number of endophytic f','Desert Plant-Fungal Endophytic, ','Endophytic fungi isolated from desert plants play a key front role in the future biotechnological challenge. Our review tried to highlight desert plant-fungal endopytes interaction that conifer these plants to adapt to the extreme arid desert conditions. These factors can possibly affect the endophytic fungi population structure and distribution, as well as the benefits of these endophytes to their host desert plants, also the desert harsh conditions can encourage the production of bioactive compounds. In addition, the previous studies proved that there are many types of beneficial interactions between endophytic fungi and their desert host plants. For example: (1) growth enhancement of host desert plants, (2) resistance promotion of the desert host plants to biotic and abiotic stresses, (3) production of secondary metabolites, including bioactive compounds that could be used in many fields as medicine, industry and agriculture, and (4) antimicrobial agents that could be used as bio-co','-','Abeer H. Ali, Usama Radwan , Soad El-Zayat and Magdi A. El-Sayed, (2018). Desert Plant-Fungal Endophytic Association: The Beneficial Aspects to their Hosts Biological Forum â€“ An International Journal 10(1): 138-145. '),(1200,'42','Effect of Physicochemical Properties of Soil on Secondary Metabolites of Calotropis gigantea (L) Collected from Shivalik hills of Himachal Pradesh, India ','Amita Kumari, Shalini Sharma and Mamta Sharma','Effect of Physicochemical Properties of Soil on Secondary Metabolites of Calotropis gigantea (L) Collected from Shivalik hills of Himachal Pradesh, India 22 AMITA KUMARI.pdf','',1,'Present investigation deals with to study the effects on physicochemical properties of soil on secondary metabolites of Calotropis gigantea (L) W. T. Aiton collected from five districts (Hamirpur, Una, Solan, Sirmour and Kangra) of Himachal Pradesh, India within the range of the Shivalik hills. The phytochemical analysis of latex extract of C. gigantea using GC-MS technique from all districts showed total 34 compounds out of which 21 were reported from Kangra and Sirmour district; 16 compounds were obtained from the Hamirpur and Solan districts whereas 15 were observed from Una districts. Results of physicochemical properties of soil showed non-significant variation in three parameters (particle size analysis, pH and organic carbon) and significant variations with four parameters (moisture content, available N, available K and CEC) from all districts. Physicochemical study concludes that soil of different districts of Himachal Pradesh has similar properties w.r.t. soil pH, organic carb','Calotropis gigantea, Shivalik hills, secondary metabolites, phytochemical analysis, GC-MS, physicochemical analysis','GC-MS analysis shows the existence of various unique compounds with variable chemical structures in latex of C. gigantea collected from different districts. Physicochemical study shows that soil of different region or districts of Himachal Pradesh has similar properties w.r.t. pH and percentage of organic carbon available in soil and soil texture. Variation was observed only with moisture content, available K and cations exchange capacity, which concludes that these properties could be responsible for variation in the chemical profile of C. gigantea of five districts with other unknown ecological factors.','-','Amita Kumari, Shalini Sharma and Mamta Sharma (2018). Effect of Physicochemical Properties of Soil on Secondary Metabolites of Calotropis gigantea (L) Collected from Shivalik hills of Himachal Pradesh, India Biological Forum â€“ An International Journal '),(1201,'42','Proteases: Industrial Applications and Approaches used in Strain Improvement','Neha Thakur, Meghna Goyal, Saweta Sharma and Dinesh Kumar','Proteases Industrial Applications and Approaches used in Strain Improvement 23 NEHA THAKUR.pdf','',1,'Proteolytic enzymes are the enzymes that bring about degradation of the proteins into peptides and amino acids. They are obtained from many sources such as plants, animals, micro-organisms. The enzymes isolated from micro-organisms are more preferred source and less costly as compare to the enzymes obtained from the plants and animals. Proteases are now widely used in pharmaceutical, leather, industrial waste management, brewing industry, food industry and providing economic benefits. Due to rapid increase in the applications of proteases there is continuous demand in both qualitative and quantitative enhancement of enzyme through strain improvement by inducing genetic variation. Enhanced production of enzymes and subsequent screening of parent and mutated strain through systemic mutagenesis is involved in strain improvement. Many physical and chemical mutagenic agents are generally used for yield improvement. This review will highlight the overview on classification, applications and ','Proteases, Classification, Sources, Physical and Chemical mutagenesis.','The demand of protease enzyme gaining day by day at commercial, industrial, pharmaceutical, analytical, diagnostic sectors. They occur ubiquitously in, animals, plants and microorganisms. As the enzymes obtained from the animal and plants are not much effective and costly so the enzymes produced with the help of micro-organisms are mostly preferred due to their rapid growth, and with limited space requirement for cultivation. Protease enzymes are utilised in food industries, fed industries, pharmaceutical industries, leather industries. Proteases are also a great source for management of waste. Their degradative nature also increases their useful for protein digestion in tissue dissociation, cell isolation and in cell culturing. Due to extensive use of protease enzyme at various industrial applications, strain improvement brings about hyper production of enzyme which ultimately leads to the reduced production cost of enzyme.','-','Neha Thakur, Meghna Goyal, Saweta Sharma and Dinesh Kumar (2018).Proteases: Industrial Applications and Approaches used in Strain Improvement Biological Forum â€“ An International Journal 10(1): 158-167.'),(1202,'45','A Review High Data Rate Implementation of a MIMO QAM-OFDM-Based Wireless LAN System','Shobhna Mishra and Prof. Amrita Khera','IJET-17-2018-SHOBHNA MISHRA.pdf','',1,'','','','',''),(1203,'45','A Review of STBC Site Diversity Technique for MCCDMA System','Urwashi Sad and Prof. Amrita Khera ','IJET-18-2018-URWASHI.pdf','',1,'','','','',''),(1204,'45','Review Study of Low Power Buffer Amplifier for TFT-LCD','Richa Mishra and Aman Saraf','IJET-12-2018-RICHA MISHRA.pdf','',1,'','','','',''),(1205,'45','Comparative Study of Conventional Absorber using Porous Media in CSP with and without Nano Fluid Flow Using CFD Analysis','Vivek Tiwari and Prashant Sharma','IJET-14-2018-VIVEK TIWARI.pdf','',1,'','','','',''),(1206,'45','A review Content-Aware Dark Image Enhancement in Image Fusion Techniques','Raksha Chouhan and Prof. Abhilasha Vyas','IJET-17-2018-RAKSHA CHOUHAN.pdf','',1,'','','','',''),(1207,'44','Transformer Condition Ranking Using Fuzzy AHP','M. Ahfaz Khan and Dr. A. K. Sharma','IJEECE-1083-AHFAZ KHAN.pdf','',1,'','','','',''),(1208,'22','A Review 5 G Wireless Network Higher Data Rates Transmission Systems','Shobharani Rajput and Prof. Sneha Jain','IJET-Khushboo Soni.pdf','',1,'','','','',''),(1209,'22','A Review Implementation of a MIMO QAM- OFDM-Based Wireless LAN System','Pragati Saxena and Prof. Sneha Jain','IJET-Pragati Saxena.pdf','',1,'','','','',''),(1210,'22','A Review Power Line Communication Systems Using MC-CDMA Transmission Techniques','Shobharani Rajput and Prof. Sneha Jain','IJET-Shobharani Rajput.pdf','',1,'','','','',''),(1211,'36','Contrast Enhancement of Remote Sensing Images using DWT with kernel filter and DTCWT','Sarah Adil Khan* and Anoop Tiwari**','IJEECE-1076-SARAH ADIL KHAN.pdf','',1,'','','','',''),(1212,'36','Enhanced Battery Life of 5G Green Networking using Millimeter wave wireless Communications System','Khushboo Soni and Prof. Abhirup Sinha','IJEECE-Khushboo Soni.pdf','',1,'','','','',''),(1213,'36','Implementation of a MIMO QAM-OFDM-Based Wireless LAN System','Pragati Saxena and Prof. Sneha Jain','IJEECE-Pragati Saxena.pdf','',1,'','','','',''),(1214,'36','Power Line Communication Systems using MC-CDMA Transmission Techniques','Shobharani Rajput and Prof. Sneha Jain','IJEECE-Shobharani Rajput.pdf','',1,'','','','',''),(1215,'46','An Experimental Study on the Utilization of Marble and Granite Waste Slurry in Manufacturing of Bricks','Er. Ankur Kansal and Er. Sunil Kumar and Er. Vikram','An Experimental Study on the Utilization of Marble and Granite Waste Slurry in Manufacturing of Bricks 9 ANKUR KANSAL.pdf','',1,'','','','',''),(1216,'45','An Experimental Study on the Utilization of Marble and Granite Waste Slurry in Manufacturing of Bricks','Er. Ankur Kansal and Er. Sunil Kumar and Er. Vikram','An Experimental Study on the Utilization of Marble and Granite Waste Slurry in Manufacturing of Bricks 9 ANKUR KANSAL.pdf','',1,'','','','',''),(1217,'45','An Experimental Investigation of Properties of Cement with Waste Marble Powder in Cement','Er. Nishant Punia and Er. Sunil Kumar and Er. Vikram','An Experimental Investigation of Properties of Cement with Waste Marble Powder in Cement 10 NISHANT PUNIA@ RAVIKANT.pdf','',1,'','','','',''),(1218,'3','Temperature Effect in a Thick Circular Plate Due to Asymmetric Heat Supply','Navneet Kumar','Temperature Effect in a Thick Circular Plate Due to Asymmetric Heat Supply NAVNEET KUMAR.pdf','',1,'','','','',''),(1219,'44','High Speed Low Power Buffer Amplifier for TFT-LCD Application','Richa Mishra and Aman Saraf','IJEECE-1079-RICHA MISHRA.pdf','',0,'','','','',''),(1220,'39','Evolving Competition Jurisprudence in India','Sudhir Kumar Saklani','Evolving Competition Jurisprudence in India 17 SUDHIR KUMAR SAKLANI.pdf','',1,'','','','',''),(1221,'39','Surrogacy and Women in India: Issues and Perspectives','Dr. Reena Devi Chandel','Surrogacy and Women in India Issues and Perspectives 18 DR REENA CHANDEL.pdf','',1,'','','','',''),(1222,'38','Some Results in Pseudo Compact Tichonov Spaces','Archana Agrawal and Manoj Kumar Shukla','Some Results in Pseudo Compact Tichonov Spaces 39 ARCHANA & MANOJ SHUKLA.pdf','',1,'','','','',''),(1223,'38','Random Fixed Point Theorem in Polish Spaces with W-Distance','Gourish Parashar, Anil Agrawal and Manoj Kumar Shukla','Random Fixed Point Theorem in Polish Spaces with W-Distance 40 GOURISH & MANOJ SHUKLA.pdf','',1,'','','','',''),(1224,'38','A Heuristic Tasks Allocation Algorithm','Kamini Raikwar, Virendra Upadhyay and Manoj Kumar Shukla','A Heuristic Tasks Allocation Algorithm 41 KAMINI & MANOJ SHUKLA.pdf','',1,'','','','',''),(1225,'38','Fixed Point Results in Fuzzy F-Menger Space','Rashmi Pathak and Manoj Kumar Shukla','Fixed Point Results in Fuzzy F-Menger Space 42 RASHMI & MANOJ SHUKLA _1_.pdf','',1,'','','','',''),(1226,'38','Some Fixed Point Theorems in Non-Archimedean Fuzzy Metric Spaces','Sunita Soni and Manoj Kumar Shukla','Some Fixed Point Theorems in Non-Archimedean Fuzzy Metric Spaces 43 SUNITA & MANOJ SHUKLA.pdf','',1,'','','','',''),(1227,'46','Sensitivity Analysis of Efficiency Retrofitting in High Rise Apartment Buildings through Life Cycle Energy and Costing Analysis','Akshay K. Bishnoi , R. Soumya , Ankur Bishnoi and Dr. E. Rajasekhar','Sensitivity Analysis of Efficiency Retrofitting in High Rise Apartment Buildings through Life Cycle Energy and Costing Analysis 11 AKSHAY K.pdf','',1,'','','','',''),(1228,'42','Comparative Allelopathic Potential of Ten Field Weeds against Seed Germination of three Economic Plants','T. Ramadan, A. Amro and S.M.A. Alazazi','Comparative Allelopathic Potential of Ten Field Weeds against Seed Germination of three Economic Plants 24 TAHA RAMADAN.pdf','',1,'The present study was carried out to evaluate the allelopathic potential of ten common weeds against three crop plants. All weeds extracts, even those more diluted, completely prevented seeds of Eruca sativa from germination. The high extract strength of Ammi majus and Desmostachya bipinnata prevented seeds of Triticum aestivum and Vicia faba from germination. The germination percentage, seed vigor index, coefficient of velocity and seedling length of T. aestivum and V. faba differentially inhibited by the extracts of weeds. The rate of elongation of hypocotyl and epicotyl of T. aestivum inhibited by all weeds, while the low extract strength of six weeds stimulated the rate of elongation in V. faba sprouts. All estimated germination and elongation parameters of receiving plants negatively correlated by total phenolics, flavonoids and alkaloids in donor weeds. Terpenoids were less influence and weakly correlated with germination parameters, so it suggested to be stimulatory. The magnitu','Allelopathy, Elongation rate, Eruca sativa, Germination, Phytochemicals, Triticum aestivum, Vicia faba, Weeds.','The present study was carried out to evaluate the allelopathic potential of ten common weeds against three crop plants. All weeds extracts, even those more diluted, completely prevented seeds of Eruca sativa from germination. The high extract strength of Ammi majus and Desmostachya bipinnata prevented seeds of Triticum aestivum and Vicia faba from germination. The germination percentage, seed vigor index, coefficient of velocity and seedling length of T. aestivum and V. faba differentially inhibited by the extracts of weeds. The rate of elongation of hypocotyl and epicotyl of T. aestivum inhibited by all weeds, while the low extract strength of six weeds stimulated the rate of elongation in V. faba sprouts. All estimated germination and elongation parameters of receiving plants negatively correlated by total phenolics, flavonoids and alkaloids in donor weeds. Terpenoids were less influence and weakly correlated with germination parameters, so it suggested to be stimulatory. The magnitu','-','T. Ramadan, A. Amro and S.M.A. Alazazi (2018). Comparative Allelopathic Potential of Ten Field Weeds against Seed Germination of three Economic Plants, Biological Forum â€“ An International Journal10(1): 168-181.'),(1229,'42','Comparative Study on the effect of Chemical Fertilizers, Bio-fertilizers and Arbuscular Mycorrhizal fungi on Maize Growth','Mohamed B. H. Mazen*, Taha Ramadan*, Nivien A. Nafady*, Amira Zaghlol** and Sedky H.A. Hasan**','Comparative Study on the effect of Chemical Fertilizers Bio-fertilizers and Arbuscular Mycorrhizal fungi on Maize Growth 25TAHA RAMDAN.pdf','',1,'A comparative study to evaluate the effect of chemical, commercial bio-fertilizers, arbuscular mycorrhizal fungi (AMF) and their combinations on the soil properties and some physiological metabolites of maize (Zea mays L.) was carried out on a pot experiment under field conditions. Six species of the AMF were used for inoculation were isolated and identified from rhizospheric soil of cultivated maize. Application of half the recommended dose of chemical fertilizers (CFhd) mixed with commercial bio-fertilizers (BF) to mycorrhizal plants led to the highest root colonization by hyphae (97.67%), vesicles (76.744%) and arbuscules (58.140 %). This reflected on the plant metabolism and significantly increased the root soluble protein (SP) and soluble sugars (SS). The highest content of total free amino acids in roots (TAA) and soluble sugars in shoots obtained under application of the full recommended dose of chemical fertilizers (CFfd) to the mycorrhizal soil. Mycorrhizal soils amended with','Bio-fertilizer, Chemical fertilizer, Arbuscular mycorrhizal fungi, Maize.','This study indicated that while CF increase both of the potential and available supply, the AMF and BF increase the available supply of the plant-nutrients content of the soil. The maize growth and metabolism are determined by the status of the chemical changes taking place in the soil and plant, and not completely by the potential plant-nutrient content of the soil. \r\n\r\n','-','Mohamed B. H. Mazen, Taha Ramadan, Nivien A. Nafady, Amira Zaghlol and Sedky H.A. Hasan (2018). Comparative Study on the effect of Chemical Fertilizers, Bio-fertilizers and Arbuscular Mycorrhizal fungi on Maize Growth Biological Forum â€“ An International'),(1230,'47','A Review on Subspecies of Egyptian Vulture','Shivangi Mishra, Adesh Kumar, Amita Kanaujia','3_JNBR_7(2)_2018.pdf','',1,'','','','',''),(1231,'48','Impact Assessment of Priority Measures under Heterogeneous Traffic Conditions','Muneeb Ahmad Tantray and Er. Parveen','Impact Assessment of Priority Measures under Heterogeneous Traffic Conditions MUNEEB AHMAD TANTRAY.pdf','',1,'','','','',''),(1232,'48','Traffic Congestion Analysis of High Volume Road Stretches in Srinagar and Pulwama','Aadil Mushtaq Ganie and Er. Deepak','Traffic Congestion Analysis of High Volume Road Stretches in Srinagar and PulwamaAADIL MUSHTAQ GANIE - Copy.pdf','',1,'','','','',''),(1233,'49','Quantitative estimation of Î²-sitosterol and Diosgenin in different cytotypes of Tribulus terrestris and Plantago depressa by using HPTLC Technique','R.C. Gupta, V. Singh and K. Kaur','Quantitative estimation of Î²-sitosterol and Diosgenin in different cytotypes of Tribulus terrestris and Plantago depressa by using HPTLC Technique-DR. KULJIT KAUR.pdf','',1,'Phytosterols are the steroids found in plants which are similar to cholesterol. Present study includes the quantitative estimation of two important phytosterols i.e. Î²-sitosterol and Diosgenin in different cytotypes of two highly important medicinal plants (Tribulus terrestris and Plantago depressa) by using HPTLC technique. The study depicts that in case of the fruits of T. terrestris, Î²-sitosterol was found to be maximum in tetraploid cytotype (2n=24) followed by hexaploid cytotype (2n=36) and octoploid cytotype (2n=48) whereas Diosgenin was maximum in hexaploid cytotype and least in tetraploid cytotype. In inflorescence of P. depressa, Î²-sitosterol was maximum in hexaploid cytotype (2n=36) followed by diploid cytotype (2n=12) and tetraploid cytotype (2n=24).',' Î²-sitosterol; Diosgenin; Tribulus terrestris; Plantago depressa; Cytotypes; HPTLC.','Phytosterols are the steroids found in plants which are similar to cholesterol. Present study includes the quantitative estimation of two important phytosterols i.e. Î²-sitosterol and Diosgenin in different cytotypes of two highly important medicinal plants (Tribulus terrestris and Plantago depressa) by using HPTLC technique. The study depicts that in case of the fruits of T. terrestris, Î²-sitosterol was found to be maximum in tetraploid cytotype (2n=24) followed by hexaploid cytotype (2n=36) and octoploid cytotype (2n=48) whereas Diosgenin was maximum in hexaploid cytotype and least in tetraploid cytotype. In inflorescence of P. depressa, Î²-sitosterol was maximum in hexaploid cytotype (2n=36) followed by diploid cytotype (2n=12) and tetraploid cytotype (2n=24).','-','R.C. Gupta, V. Singh, and K. Kaur (2018). Quantitative Estimation of Î²-sitosterol and Diosgenin in different cytotypes of Tribulus terrestris and Plantago depressa by using HPTLC Technique. Biological Forum â€“ An International Journal 10(2): 01-05(2018)'),(1234,'50','Di(2-ethylhexyl)phthalate-induced Lipid Peroxidation and Associated\r\nOxidative stress in Gill, Liver and Muscle Tissues of the Fish, Oreochromis mossambicus (Peters, 1852)','V. Revathy and K.C. Chitra','Di(2-ethylhexyl)phthalate-induced Lipid Peroxidation and Associated Oxidative stress in Gill, Liver and Muscle Tissues of the Fish, Oreochromis mossambicus (Peters, 1852) K.C. CHITRA.pdf','',1,'','','','',''),(1235,'50','Di(2-ethylhexyl)phthalate-induced Lipid Peroxidation and Associated\r\nOxidative stress in Gill, Liver and Muscle Tissues of the Fish,Oreochromis mossambicus (Peters, 1852)','V. Revathy and K.C. Chitra','Di(2-ethylhexyl)phthalate-induced Lipid Peroxidation and Associated Oxidative stress in Gill, Liver and Muscle Tissues of the Fish, Oreochromis mossambicus (Peters, 1852) K.C. CHITRA.pdf','',0,'','','','',''),(1236,'50','Effect of beta-cyclodextrin on Volumetric and Acoustic behavior of Aqueous Doxycycline Hydrochloride','Shashi Kant Sharma1, Nisha Sharma2 and Poonam Thakur 3','Effect of beta-cyclodextrin on Volumetric and Acoustic behavior of Aqueous Doxycycline Hydrochloride SHASHI KANT SHARMA.pdf','',1,'','','','',''),(1237,'48','Traffic Congestion Analysis of High Volume Road Stretches in Srinagar and Pulwama','Aadil Mushtaq Ganie and Er. Deepak','Traffic Congestion Analysis of High Volume Road Stretches in Srinagar and PulwamaAADIL MUSHTAQ GANIE.pdf','',0,'','','','',''),(1238,'48','A Review 5G using Millimeter Wave in Ultra-Reliable Machine-to-Machine\r\nCommunications','Rajesh Kumar Mahtato1 and Prof. Pankaj Sharma2','A Review 5G using Millimeter Wave in Ultra-Reliable Machine-to-Machine Communications RAJESH KUMAR MAHTATO.pdf','',1,'','','','',''),(1239,'48','An Experimental Investigation of Rice Husk ash and Waste Paper Sludge ash as Partial Replacement of Cement in Concrete','Eliyas Majeed and Er. Deepak','An Experimental Investigation of Rice Husk ash and Waste Paper Sludge ash as Partial Replacement of Cement in Concrete ELIYAS MAJEED.pdf','',1,'','','','',''),(1240,'51','5G Using Millimeter Wave in Ultra-Reliable Machine-to-Machine Communications','Rajesh Kumar Mahtato and Prof. Pankaj Sharma','RAJESH KUMAR MAHTATO.pdf','',1,'','','','',''),(1241,'51','Review of Maximum Power Point Tracking: History, Developments and Challenges','Shweta Soni','SHWETA SONI.pdf','',1,'','','','',''),(1242,'51','Environmental Impact of Electricity Generation on Indian Ecosystem','Pallavi Gajbhiye*, Taruna Jain** and P. N. Shukla***','GAJBHIYE PALLAVI.pdf','',1,'','','','',''),(1243,'49','Nematicidal Effects of Datura innoxia and Sophora alopecuroides from Balochistan for Environmental-friendly Control of Plant Parasitic \r\nNematodes','Noreen Khan*,**, Bibi Shagufta**, Shahina Fayyaz***, Salma Javed***, Saima Maher*, Shazia Iqbal* and Nelofer Jamil*','Nematicidal Effects of Datura innoxia and Sophora alopecuroides from Balochistan for Environmental-friendly Control of Plant Parasitic Nematodes-NELOFER JAMIL.pdf','',1,'The plants extracts are becoming more popular for ecofriendly control of plant parasitic nematodes because of increasing environmental pollution arising due to persistent pesticides especially including POPs (persistent organic pollutants). These are the major threat to the environment, human lives, beneficial microbes in soil and to the underground body water. There is a need for adopting environmentally-friendly remedies such as plant extractsas an alternative for controlling plant parasitic nematodes. Balochistan is a rich region of Pakistan in floral variety with a broad range of biological value, though no encouraging effort has been made yet in this region, to evaluate botanical-nematocide. Therefore Datura innoxia, Sophora alopecuroides collected from Balochistan were screened for their nematicidal activities against Meloidogyne incognita. The ethanol extracts of the said plants were tested for egg hatchability and nematicidal effects on the second stage juveniles of M. incogni',' Meloidogyne incognita, Datura innoxia, Sophora alopecuroides, juveniles, Balochistan, environmentally-friendly ','The plants extracts are becoming more popular for ecofriendly control of plant parasitic nematodes because of increasing environmental pollution arising due to persistent pesticides especially including POPs (persistent organic pollutants). These are the major threat to the environment, human lives, beneficial microbes in soil and to the underground body water. There is a need for adopting environmentally-friendly remedies such as plant extractsas an alternative for controlling plant parasitic nematodes. Balochistan is a rich region of Pakistan in floral variety with a broad range of biological value, though no encouraging effort has been made yet in this region, to evaluate botanical-nematocide. Therefore Datura innoxia, Sophora alopecuroides collected from Balochistan were screened for their nematicidal activities against Meloidogyne incognita. The ethanol extracts of the said plants were tested for egg hatchability and nematicidal effects on the second stage juveniles of M. incogni','-','Noreen Khan, Bibi Shagufta, Shahina Fayyaz, Salma Javed, Saima Maher, Shazia Iqbal and Nelofer Jamil (2018). Nematicidal Effects of Datura innoxia and Sophora alopecuroides from Balochistan for Environmental-friendly Control of Plant Parasitic Nematodes'),(1244,'49','Medicinal Herbs of Punjab (India)','Ajaypal Singh and Renuka Rani and Manjul Sharma','Medicinal Herbs of Punjab (India)-RENUKA RANI.pdf','',1,'Herb in botanical sense is a plant lacking a permanent woody stem that produces seeds and flowers that dies after its growing season. In traditional medicine sense herb is small, non woody plant valued for its medicinal, savory or aromatic compounds. It is estimated that about 25% of all modern medicines are directly or indirectly from higher plants and according to World Health Organization, 80% of the people worldwide rely on herbal medicine. However, usage of traditional remedies increases when conventional medicine is ineffective in the treatment of disease, such as in advanced cancer and in the face of new infectious diseases. Villagers chiefly depend on the herbs for all diseases. Herbs are natural or having no or low probability of side effects. These are holistic and oldest and most widely used form of medicine. Herbs are used from ancient time and now are popular among people of both urban and rural areas for cure of different ailments. Herbal medicine offers safe, gentle and ','Herbs, Medicinal Properties of Herbs.','The people have been using numerous herbs for treating various ailments since immemorial. The herbs are holistic and oldest and most widely used form of medicine. In fact the villagers chiefly depend on them as they are familiar with their use for different ailments like asthma, dysentery, skin diseases, diabetes, rheumatism, jaundice etc. The herbs also contains anti-cancerous property. Different herbs act on different systems of body. These are natural or having no or low probability of side effects but for their effective results one should be aware of the way to use them for the respective disease or it is advisable not to use them without consulting an experienced ayurvedic physician. For their use for the therapeutic purpose or getting benefits from them, they should be taken care of, conserved and cultivated. ','-','Ajaypal Singh and Renuka Rani (2018). Medicinal Herbs of Punjab (India). Biological Forum â€“ An International Journal, 10(2): 10-27(2018).'),(1245,'49','Comparative Study of the Blood Lead Level among Outdoor and Indoor Traffic Police Sergeants in Quetta City of Pakistan','Nelofer Jamil*,**, Sadaf Ashraf*, Heera Anum*, Mohammad Bilal***, Ambreen*, Naeem Shahwani***, Sunbal Siddique**** and Ayesha Ubaid*','Comparative Study of the Blood Lead Level among Outdoor and Indoor Traffic Police Sergeants in Quetta City of Pakistan-NELOFER JAMIL.pdf','',1,'Lead is a toxic chemical element whose wide spread use has caused health and environmental issues all over the globe. It is a heavy metal that is denser than most common materials. This study was conducted in Quetta city to estimate lead level in blood of Traffic Police Sergeants (TPS) with outdoor job description and its effect on their health. To assess the socioeconomic and health conditions of traffic sergeants a detailed questionnaire was formulated. Blood samples were collected from 248 male traffic police sergeants, 20 to 50 years of age, performing duties for almost 8 hours a day in different zones of Quetta city and had been controlling traffic from 5 months to 25 years. Blood lead level (BLL) was estimated by using Atomic Absorption Spectrophotometer. BLL of indoor traffic police sergeants ranged in between 20-30 ug/dL whereas BLL of outdoor traffic police sergeants ranged in between 30-40 ug/dL. Since traffic sergeants with outdoor job responsibilities were exposed to vehic','Blood Lead Level, lead, health, Quetta, Traffic sergeants','Lead was found in the blood of outdoor traffic sergeants and was significantly related to the place of residence. Although Health education and training is fundamental tool to prevent occupational diseases, measures taken by the relevant authorities in Pakistan to control this problem were found to be insufficient. Stern actions are needed to reduce the use of lead in industries, which may be the source to an increase in the levels of lead in the environment and thus in the blood of our future generations. It is therefore essential to develop strategies to decrease lead pollution by introducing lead free petrol, banning Irani petrol, providing safety equipment and introducing CNG in vehicles. ','-','Nelofer Jamil, Sadaf Ashraf, Heera Anum, Mohammad Bilal, Ambreen, Naeem Shahwani, Sunbal Siddique and Ayesha Ubaid (2018). Comparative Study of the Blood Lead Level among Outdoor and Indoor Traffic Police Sergeants in Quetta City of Pakistan. Biological F'),(1246,'39','A Comparative Study of some Traditional and Modern Methods of Teaching Learning Process','Dr. Ramesh Chand Sharma','19 A Comparative Study of some Traditional and Modern Methods of Teaching Learning Process DR RC SHARMA.pdf','',1,'','','','',''),(1247,'33','Comparative study (gender-wise) of Effectiveness of the Teacher Training Programmes Imparted through Video-Conferencing by using EDUSAT Network','Dr. Ramesh Chand Sharma','41 Comparative study (gender-wise) of Effectiveness of the Teacher Training Programmes Imparted through Video-Conferencing by using EDUSAT Network DR RC SHARMA.pdf','',1,'','','','',''),(1248,'2','Faunistic Survey of Chalcidoids (Chalcidoidea: Hymenoptera)\r\nin Tamil Nadu','R. Kanagarajan, M. Ayyamperumal and K. Saravanan','82 Faunistic Survey of Chalcidoids (Chalcidoidea Hymenoptera) R. KANAGARAJAN.pdf','',0,'','','','',''),(1249,'50','E-waste, Problems, Consequences and Disposal Practices in India: A Review','Jahanger Ahmad Wani and Fayaz Ahmad Dar','E-waste Problems Consequences and Disposal Practices in India A Review -JAHANGER AHMAD WANI.pdf','',0,'','','','',''),(1250,'50','Development of Low Sugar Vegetable Jam from Beetroot (Beta\r\nvulgaris L.): Studies on Physicochemical Sensory and Nutritional\r\nProperties','PABN Perumpuli1, GSN Fernando1, MN Kaumal2, M Arandara1 and SWM Silva1','4 Development of Low Sugar Vegetable Jam from Beetroot (Beta vulgaris L.) Studies on Physicochemical Sensory and Nutritional Properties PERUMPULI PABN.pdf','',0,'','','','',''),(1251,'2','Faunistic Survey of Chalcidoids (Chalcidoidea: Hymenoptera)\r\nin Tamil Nadu','R. Kanagarajan, M. Ayyamperumal and K. Saravanan','Faunistic Survey of Chalcidoids (Chalcidoidea Hymenoptera) R. KANAGARAJAN.pdf','',1,'Diversity of Chalcidoids from Hilly tract of Tamil Nadu was investigated at Kolli hills of Namakkal district during 2014-2015. An attempt was made to survey possible parasitic fauna of Kolli Hills with more emphasis on Chalcidoidea of parasitic Hymenoptera in various agro ecosystems. On the total of 6792 parasitic Hymenoptera were collected, out of which 2755 were Chalcidoidea super families. Out of chalcidoids 1358 belonged to Mymaridaefamily, 391 to Encyrtidae, 374 to Eulophidae, 365 to Chalcididae, 179 to Trichogrammatidae, 59 to Aphelinidae, 23 to Euritomidae, four to Eupelmidae, one each to Torimidae and Agaonidae. Within the ecosystem only Mymarid could be recovered and itâ€™s represented by 20 genera. The status of Mymarid is compared with world and Indian fauna and their biocontrol potential discussed.','Parasitic hymenoptera, genera, ecosystem, Mymaridae.','Since such a rich biodiversity of beneficial parasitc hymenoptera especially in mymarids available in nature, now it is upto the agricultural experts and farmers to suitably modify their plant protection schedule, so that their biocontrol potential fully exploited. They can live in advanced trophic level and this ia an important factor in maintain a suitable and stronger homeostasis in the ecosystem. ','-','R. Kanagarajan, M. Ayyamperumal and K. Saravanan (2016). Faunistic Survey of Chalcidoids (Chalcidoidea: Hymenoptera) in Tamil Nadu , Biological Forum â€“ An International Journal 8(1): 570-572.'),(1252,'50','E-waste, Problems, Consequences and Disposal Practices in India: A Review','Jahanger Ahmad Wani and Fayaz Ahmad Dar','E-waste Problems Consequences and Disposal Practices in India A Review -JAHANGER AHMAD WANI.pdf','',1,'','','','',''),(1253,'50','Development of Low Sugar Vegetable Jam from Beetroot (Beta\r\nvulgaris L.): Studies on Physicochemical Sensory and Nutritional\r\nProperties','PABN Perumpuli1, GSN Fernando1, MN Kaumal2, M Arandara1 and SWM Silva1','Development of Low Sugar Vegetable Jam from Beetroot (Beta vulgaris L) Studies on Physicochemical Sensory and Nutritional Properties PERUMPULI PABN.pdf','',1,'','','','',''),(1254,'45','Sensitivity Analysis of Efficiency Retrofitting in High Rise Apartment Buildings through Life Cycle Energy and Costing Analysis','Akshay K. Bishnoi, R. Soumya, Ankur Bishnoi and Dr. E. Rajasekhar','Sensitivity Analysis of Efficiency Retrofitting in High Rise Apartment Buildings through Life Cycle Energy and Costing Analysis 11 AKSHAY K.pdf','',1,'','','','',''),(1255,'49','The effects of Ultraviolet Radiation on some Growth Parameters, Pigments content and Antioxidant Enzymes Activity at early Developmental stages of Dracocephalum moldavica ','Sima Jabbarzadeh, Rouhollah Motafakkerazad, Hanieh Mohajjel Shoja and Elham Mohajel Kazemi','The effects of Ultraviolet Radiation on some Growth Parameters Pigments content and Antioxidant Enzymes Activity at early Developmental stages of Dracocephalum moldavica-ROUHOLLAH MOTAFAKKERAZAD.pdf','',1,'During the last decades, damaging of ozone layer results in the effect of solar UV radiation on the earth. The increase of ultraviolet radiation can have many direct or indirect deleterious effects on the living organisms. To study of enhanced ultraviolet radiation (under 320nm) effects we assayed some growth parameters, pigments and antioxidant activities of Dracocephalum moldavica as herbal medicine in 2-4 pair leaf stage. The plants were exposed to six doses of UV radiation (7, 15, 22, 30, 37, 51 kjm-2d-1). Data were analyzed using SPSS software and ANOVA test. Results of this experiment showed that UV doses decreased growth parameters of root and shoot (fresh and dry weight, length of root and shoot) and pigments contents (chlorophyll a, chlorophyll b and Total chlorophyll). Based on the results, there are significant increase in the amount of carotenoids and anthocyanins in high dosages of UV radiation. However the highest doses of UV enhanced activity of catalase and peroxidase b','Dracocephalum moldavica, UV, growth parameters, pigments, antioxidant enzymes','The plants have several mechanisms against the deleterious effects of UV radiation which include a combination of damaging, repairing and tolerance, but this relevance is less known. Protective mechanisms against UV damage in plants is depends on plant species. The present study suggested that, D. moldavica is sensitive plant against high UV dosages. The increased activity of catalase, peroxidase and ascorbate peroxidase in high doses of UV treatment and the increased amount of anthocyanins and carotenoids in same doses shows the plant sensitivity levels in front of UV exposure and shows combination of enzymatic and non-enzymatic defence mechanisms, which decreased the effects of radiation damage in higher doses. Chlorophyll values and SOD decreasing in same doses with upper mentioned results of enzymes and pigments supported the mentioned mechanism of plant defence system against under 320 nm UV radiation. More studies should be done to understand the precise plant defence system aga','-','Sima Jabbarzadeh, Rouhollah Motafakkerazad, Hanieh Mohajjel Shoja and Elham Mohajel Kazemi (2018). The effects of Ultraviolet radiation on some growth parameters, pigments content and antioxidant enzymes activity at early developmental stages of Dracoceph'),(1256,'49','The Impact of Milling, Steaming and Microwave Heat Treatments on Physicochemical Properties of Wheat Bran and dough Empirical \r\nRheology','Hassan Afshari-Jouybari, Seyed Hadi Peighambardoust and Sodeif Azadmard-Damirchi','The Impact of Milling Steaming and Microwave Heat Treatments on Physicochemical Properties of Wheat Bran and dough Empirical Rheology-HASSAN AFSHARI-JOUYBARI.pdf','',1,'Wheat bran (WB) is used in bread formulation to improveitsnutritional values.The objective of this study was to investigate the modification processes such as micronization, microwave and steaming processes of WB on bran and dough characteristics. Size reduction increased lightness of WB (48.23 to 58.67) while b*, Î”E, hue, chroma, whiteness and yellowness values decreased. Control and very fine bran showed the highest and lowest values for water holding capacity from 743.99% and 478.35% respectively. WB additions increased water absorption of dough from 59.8 to 63.1%. Development time reduced (1.7 to 1.3) while dough stability increased (2.6 min to 4.2) by WB size reduction. As coarse WB added, dough extensibility and extension decreased from 67 to 46 cm2 and 153 to 138 mm respectively. Fine WB decreased dough energy (42 cm2). Steaming process reduced phytic acid content (0.68mg/g) and increased dough resistance to extension (251 HE).','Flour, Wheat bran, Micronization, Microwave treatment, Steaming.','Undesirable technological and sensorial effect of wheat bran limited its application for dough formulation and bakery products. Micronization, microwave and steaming treatment have significant effect on the physicochemical properties of wheat bran and WB supplemented breads. Particle size reduction of WB particle size significantly decreased bran water holding capacity and its b* value, yellowness and whiteness while increasing its lightness, bulk and tapped densities. Wheat bran samples had negative effect on dough development time and stability and resistance extensibility. Reduction of bran particle size had positive effect on dough development time stability, \r\n\r\nstability and maximum resistance while coarse bran had higher energy and resistance to extension. Wheat bran seaming can reduce phytic acid content and water holding capacity and improved dough stability, maximum resistance and resistance to extension. Finally, according to results, limit milling of bran as well as s','-','Hassan Afshari-Jouybari, Seyed Hadi Peighambardoust and Sodeif Azadmard-Damirchi (2018). The Impact of Milling, Steaming and Microwave Heat Treatments on Physicochemical Properties of Wheat Bran and dough Empirical Rheology. Biological Forum â€“ An Intern'),(1257,'47','Polyhydroxyalkanoate (PHA) Production by Genetically Engineered Microalgae: A Review ','Jyothi Kaparapu','4_JNBR_7(2)_2018.pdf','',1,'','','','',''),(1258,'47','Activity of White Royal Bengal Tiger (Panthera tigris tigris) in captivity at Sajjangarh Biological Park, Udaipur, Rajasthan','Kendrika Gaur* and Vijay Kumar Koli','5_JNBR_7(2)_2018.pdf','',1,'','','','',''),(1259,'47','A preliminary study on the birds of a typical sub-urban region of Lucknow, Uttar Pradesh, India ','Rajesh Prakash Chaube, Adesh Kumar, , Amita Kanaujia','6_JNBR_7(2)_2018.pdf','',1,'','','','',''),(1260,'39','Strategic Planning for Turning Technological and Managerial Challenges into\r\nOpportunities','Shaizal Batra and Dr. Vikas Saraf','Strategic Planning for Turning Technological and Managerial Challenges into Opportunities SHAIZAL BATRA.pdf','',1,'','','','',''),(1261,'49','Taxonomic Studies and Ethnomedicinal uses of Zingiberaceae in the\r\nMountain Ranges of Northern Antique, Philippines','Jade Ann Grace P. Dalisay*, Porferio S. Bangcaya*,** and Mark Arcebal K. Naive***','Taxonomic Studies and Ethnomedicinal uses of Zingiberaceae in the Mountain Ranges of Northern Antique Philippines JADE ANN GRACE P. DALISAY- R8.pdf','',0,'','','','',''),(1262,'49','Vegetation Analysis and Distribution of Five Medicinal Plants along\r\nAltitudinal Gradient at SKP, South Sinai, Egypt','T. Ramadan, M. A.A. Zidan and Asmaa M. Abdel-Bari','Vegetation Analysis and Distribution of Five Medicinal Plants along Altitudinal Gradient at SKP South Sinai Egypt T. RAMADAN.pdf','',1,'The aim of this study was to explore the change in vegetation structure and species distribution along altitudinal gradient at Saint Katherine Protectorate (SKP) mountains, with special attention to the distribution of five medicinal plants (Cleome droserifolia, Achillea fragrantissima, Chiliadenus montanus, Origanum syriacum and Thymus decussatus). 108 species (81perennial, 24 annual and 3 biannual) belong to 90 genera and 35 families were recorded with Asteraceae as the most abundant family. Elements of Saharo-Arabian chamaephytes were the major component of the floristic structure. The recorded species classified by cluster analysis into four vegetation groups. Most of soil variables unchanged significantly along the altitudinal gradient. The results of CCA ordination indicated that altitude, or the species\' altitude range limits, was the most important factor affecting distribution of plants and determine the floristic composition. Seven endemic and three near-endemic species were ','Altitudinal gradient; Ethno-pharmacological plants; Endemics; SKP, Sinai.','The aim of this study was to explore the change in vegetation structure and species distribution along altitudinal gradient at Saint Katherine Protectorate (SKP) mountains, with special attention to the distribution of five medicinal plants (Cleome droserifolia, Achillea fragrantissima, Chiliadenus montanus, Origanum syriacum and Thymus decussatus). 108 species (81perennial, 24 annual and 3 biannual) belong to 90 genera and 35 families were recorded with Asteraceae as the most abundant family. Elements of Saharo-Arabian chamaephytes were the major component of the floristic structure. The recorded species classified by cluster analysis into four vegetation groups. Most of soil variables unchanged significantly along the altitudinal gradient. The results of CCA ordination indicated that altitude, or the species\' altitude range limits, was the most important factor affecting distribution of plants and determine the floristic composition. Seven endemic and three near-endemic species were ','-','T. Ramadan, M. A.A. Zidan and Asmaa M. Abdel-Bari (2018). Vegetation Analysis and Distribution of Five Medicinal Plants along Altitudinal Gradient at SKP, South Sinai, Egypt. Biological Forum â€“ An International Journal, 10(2): 51-67(2018).'),(1263,'50','Growth Kinetics of Mercury Resistant Pseudomonas aeruginosa, Lysinibacillus fusiformis and Serratia marcescens','Sneha Bajpai and J.L. Bhat','Growth Kinetics of Mercury Resistant Pseudomonas aeruginosa Lysinibacillus fusiformis and Serratia marcescens PROF J.L Bhat.pdf','',1,'','','','',''),(1264,'49','Taxonomic Studies and Ethnomedicinal uses of Zingiberaceae in the Mountain Ranges of Northern Antique, Philippines','Jade Ann Grace P. Dalisay* , Porferio S. Bangcaya*,** and Mark Arcebal K. Naive***','Taxonomic Studies and Ethnomedicinal uses of Zingiberaceae in the Mountain Ranges of Northern Antique Philippines JADE ANN GRACE P. DALISAY-R8.pdf','',1,'The gingers are well-known for their medicinal and economic significance and occur chiefly in the tropical regions of the world mainly in the Indo-Malaysian area of Asia. At present, however, Zingiberaceae are one of the least known group in the rapidly expanding recent knowledge of Philippine biodiversity. Thus, this study was conducted to identify the Zingiberaceae species present in the mountain ranges of northern Antique, determine their species richness, diversity and ethnomedicinal uses. Twenty three species in three tribes and eight genera of Zingiberaceae were collected. Among the 23 species collected, 16 species of Zingiberaceae are used traditionally by AntiqueÃ±os to alleviate and cure ailments such as the rhizomes of Alpinia elegans (C. Presl) K. Schum and Etlingera cf. philippinensis (Ridl.) R.M. Sm for post-partum relapse, the fruits of Amomum dealbatum Roxb. and Alpinia romblonensis Elmer for loss bowel movement and the leaves of Alpinia gigantifolia(Elmer) R.M. Sm for','Zingiberaceae, Ethnomedicinal uses, mountain ranges, Northern Antique','This study concluded that there are 23 species of Zingiberaceae in the mountain ranges of northern Antique and 16 species are used traditionally by AntiqueÃ±os to alleviate and cure ailments. Furthermore, Zingiberaceae species could live in varied environment from moist and humid areas such as deep forest and along the streams and riverbank to dry areas such as grassland. But, they are more abundant in damped canopies and along the tributaries because of the presence of rich loam soil, colder temperature and far from human interventions that could inhibit the growth and propagation of the Zingiberaceae. It is highly recommended that the species must be conserve through species and habitat protection, ecological management and wise use of the species. Continuous documentation of ethnomedicinal plant must be done to save the medicinal culture and tradition of AntiqueÃ±os since most of these knowledge are transferred orally. Furthermore, molecular analysis is highly recommended to identif','-','Jade Ann Grace P. Dalisay, Porferio S. Bangcaya and Mark Arcebal K. Naive (2018). Taxonomic studies and ethnomedicinal uses of Zingiberaceae in the Mountain Ranges of Northern Antique, Philippines. Biological Forum â€“ An International Journal, 10(2): 68-'),(1265,'48','Multiband-OFDM MIMO Based Ultra-Wideband Communication System','Sameer Khan and Prof. Sneha Jain','Multiband-OFDM MIMO Based Ultra-Wideband Communication System SAMEER KHAN.pdf','',1,'','','','',''),(1266,'48','Digital Video Broadcasting in STBC Site Diversity Technique for MC-CDMA System','Abhinav Raj and Prof. Aman Saraf','Digital Video Broadcasting in STBC Site Diversity Technique for MC-CDMA System -ABHINAV RAJ.pdf','',1,'','','','',''),(1267,'48','Performance of the LTE Low Complexity PAPR Reduction for Coded \r\nScrambling Technique','Deepika Khandare and Prof. Sneha Jain','Performance of the LTE Low Complexity PAPR Reduction for Coded Scrambling Technique DEEPIKA.pdf','',1,'','','','',''),(1268,'48','Analysis of Soil Stabilization by the Intervention of Jute Fiber','Tawseef Ahmad Shah and Er. Bharamjeet','Analysis of Soil Stabilization by the Intervention of Jute Fiber TAWSEEF AHMAD SHAH.pdf','',1,'','','','',''),(1269,'51','A Review Digital Video Broadcasting in STBC Site Diversity Technique for MC-CDMA System','Abhinav Raj and Prof. Aman Saraf ','A Review Digital Video Broadcasting in STBC Site Diversity Technique for MC-CDMA System ABHINAV RAJ.pdf','',1,'','','','',''),(1270,'51','A review Performance of the LTE Low Complexity PAPR Reduction for Coded Scrambling Technique','Deepika Khandare and Prof. Sneha Jain','A review Performance of the LTE Low Complexity PAPR Reduction for Coded Scrambling Technique DEEPIKA.pdf','',1,'','','','',''),(1271,'51','A Review Multiband-OFDM MIMO Based Ultra-Wideband Communication System','Sameer Khan and Prof. Sneha Jain','A Review Multiband-OFDM MIMO Based Ultra-Wideband Communication System -SAMEER KHAN.pdf','',1,'','','','',''),(1272,'49','Nigella sativa Mitigative Antioxidant Properties against Citral Induced Oxidative Stress and Biochemical changes during Development of Chick Embryo','Reda A. Ali, Hanem S. Abdel-Tawab and Dalia Elzahraa F. Mostafa','Nigella sativa Mitigative Antioxidant Properties against Citral Induced Oxidative Stress and Biochemical changes during Development of Chick Embryo-REDA A. ALI.pdf','',1,'The aim of this study is to evaluate the effect of different concentrations of citral on glutathione (GSH), nitric oxide (NO), lipid peroxide (LPO) and vitamin C. Also, the protective effect of N. sativa was studied. Fertilized eggs of the chick Gallus domesticus were divided into control or experimental groups which received three different concentrations of citral (50, 100 and 200 Î¼M), N. sativa extract (5 Î¼l) or a combination of N. sativa extract with citral. Citral and N. sativa groups decreased GSH & vitamin C and NO, while increased LPO. Co-treatment with citral and N. sativa increased GSH & vitamin C and decreased LPO levels. Citral induced oxidative stress by inhibiting RA synthesis. The limited mitigative properties of N. sativa are attributed to either its antineoplastic properties, the high levels of oxidative stress provoked by citral and above its antioxidative capacity or the low administered dose.','Citral, Nigella sativa, GSH, NO, LPO, Vitamin C, Chick embryo.','The aim of this study is to evaluate the effect of different concentrations of citral on glutathione (GSH), nitric oxide (NO), lipid peroxide (LPO) and vitamin C. Also, the protective effect of N. sativa was studied. Fertilized eggs of the chick Gallus domesticus were divided into control or experimental groups which received three different concentrations of citral (50, 100 and 200 Î¼M), N. sativa extract (5 Î¼l) or a combination of N. sativa extract with citral. Citral and N. sativa groups decreased GSH & vitamin C and NO, while increased LPO. Co-treatment with citral and N. sativa increased GSH & vitamin C and decreased LPO levels. Citral induced oxidative stress by inhibiting RA synthesis. The limited mitigative properties of N. sativa are attributed to either its antineoplastic properties, the high levels of oxidative stress provoked by citral and above its antioxidative capacity or the low administered dose.','-','Reda A. Ali, Hanem S. Abdel-Tawab and Dalia Elzahraa F. Mostafa (2018). Nigella sativa Mitigative Antioxidant Properties against Citral induced Oxidative Stress and Biochemical changes during Development of Chick Embryo. Biological Forum â€“ An Internatio'),(1273,'47','Temerariomyces indicum - a new species of\r\nsporodochial fungus from Sanjay Gandhi National\r\nPark, Mumbai, India','Rashmi Dubey','7_JNBR_7(2)_2018.pdf','',1,'','','','',''),(1274,'50','Synthesis, Characterization and Kinetic Studies of Quadri-dentate Demi-macrocyclic Complexes of Mn (II) and Cu (II) having di-aza and di-oxa Donorâ€™s ','Sajood Maqbool1, M.U Khan2, Mir Bilal Parvaiz3 and H.P. Dwivedi1 ','Synthesis Characterization and Kinetic Studies of Quadri-dentate Demi-macrocyclic Complexes of Mn IIand Cu II having di-aza and di-oxa Donors SAJOOD MAQBOOL.pdf','',1,'','','','',''),(1275,'52','Cases of discoloration in House sparrows, Passer domesticus (L., 1758) (Aves: Passeridae) from Jhansi, India','Akhilesh Kumar*, Sonika Kushwaha','JNBR_7(3)_2018.pdf','',1,'','','','',''),(1276,'49','Effects of Salinity Stress on Growth and Yield of Aloe vera L.','Reema Srivastava, Jagrati Agarwal and Dimple Chandani','Effects of Salinity Stress on Growth and Yield of Aloe vera L. REEMA SRIVASTAVA.pdf','',1,'The excess of soil salinity is one of the major factors that limit the survival of plants in their natural habitats. It is a major threat to crop yield, especially in countries where irrigation is an important aid to agriculture. Salinity affects plant growth and metabolism and cause modifications in gene expression of plants. Aloe plants irrigated with nutrient solution containing different levels of NaCl on December. Results revealed that salinity affected plant height, root length, number of sprout, root weight and plant weight. All measured characteristics were highest in control.','Salt stress, Aloe vera, stress tolerance, morphological characters.','The excess of soil salinity is one of the major factors that limit the survival of plants in their natural habitats. It is a major threat to crop yield, especially in countries where irrigation is an important aid to agriculture. Salinity affects plant growth and metabolism and cause modifications in gene expression of plants. Aloe plants irrigated with nutrient solution containing different levels of NaCl on December. Results revealed that salinity affected plant height, root length, number of sprout, root weight and plant weight. All measured characteristics were highest in control.','-','Reema Srivastava, Jagrati Agarwal and Dimple Chandani (2018). Effects of Salinity Stress on Growth and Yield of Aloe vera L. Biological Forum â€“ An International Journal, 10(2): 86-89(2018).'),(1277,'49','Effects of Salinity Stress on Growth and Yield of Aloe vera L.','Reema Srivastava, Jagrati Agarwal and Dimple Chandani','Effects of Salinity Stress on Growth and Yield of Aloe vera L. REEMA SRIVASTAVA.pdf','',0,'','','','',''),(1278,'48','Review on Improvement of Engineering Properties of soil Using Waste Plastic Bottles Strips (Polyethylene Terephthalate)','Preetinder Singh and Sameer Malhotra','Review on Improvement of Engineering Properties of soil Using Waste Plastic Bottles Strips (Polyethylene Terephthalate) PREETINDER SINGH.pdf','',1,'','','','',''),(1279,'51','A Review D-STATCOM Voltage Regulation Systems','Rahul Chaturvedi1 and Prof. Alka Thakur2','A Review D-STATCOM Voltage Regulation Systems -RAHUL CHATURVEDI.pdf','',1,'','','','',''),(1280,'51','A Review of Renewable Energy Resources in Reluctance Motor Drive\r\nfor Electric Vehicles','Md Haroon1 and Ms Alka Thakur2','A Review of Renewable Energy Resources in Reluctance Motor Drive for Electric Vehicles.pdf','',1,'','','','',''),(1281,'49','A preliminary study on Nest Site Selection by Egyptian Vultures in Uttar Pradesh, India ','Shivangi Mishra*, Adesh Kumar*, ** and Amita Kanaujia*, **','A preliminary study on Nest Site Selection by Egyptian Vultures in Uttar Pradesh, India DR. AMITA KANAUJIAA.pdf','',1,'Egyptian Vultures maintain their territories and generally built several nests during their breeding season. They select a breeding place in cliff sites of smaller size, on sheltered or camouflaged narrow ledges or equivalent caves, tall trees, ancient monuments and on old and historical temples where two eggs are laid early in the spring and where other competitors like black kite and other vultures are generally not present. During the study period four districts of Uttar Pradesh: Unnao, Rae-bareli, Lakhimpur Kheri and Gonda respectively have been surveyed for searching and observing the nest habitat preference of Egyptian vultures from June 2015 to September 2017. The objectives of the study were, to determine the factors influencing the nest site selection of Egyptian vultures. A total point count has been used to assess the breeding population of the Egyptian vulture. The nests found were mainly at the remote areas where there is least human disturbance and usually away from the m','Umbrella species, Conservation, Nesting substrate, Nest site','Egyptian Vulture prefers high nesting platform usually located in undisturbed areas (away from human population) but close to good quality habitat (close to food and water resource). Nests made were close to other conspecific nest. They prefer mature trees to build their nests probably due to the fact that large trees are necessary to hold their heavy nests. Roosting and Nesting usually occurs within or immediately adjacent to water (Wetland, River, Pond or artificial water body). The minimum elevation of nest was around10 ft. and maximum elevation was above 100 ft. from the ground. Nests are generally Heavy, large and open with a number of materials used in it such as wool, cotton, bones, sticks, leaves, clothes etc. (Mishra et al. 2017). The nest with least elevation from ground was found destructed which shows that height from ground is crucial for the nest success. Among trees, they prefer mature trees to build their nests probably due to the fact that large trees are strong enough','-','Shivangi Mishra, Adesh Kumar and Amita Kanaujia (2018). A preliminary study on Nest Site Selection by Egyptian Vultures in Uttar Pradesh, India. Biological Forum â€“ An International Journal, 10(2): 90-95(2018).'),(1282,'39','A Study on the Effectiveness of Declarative, Procedural and Conditional Knowledge for Physics among Higher Secondary Students with Reference to the 5E Teaching Learning Model ','Mohd. Raees Khan1 and Dr. N.A. Kazi2 ','A Study on the Effectiveness of Declarative, Procedural and Conditional Knowledge for Physics among Higher Secondary Students with Reference to the 5E Teaching Learning mode MOHD.pdf','',1,'','','','',''),(1283,'51','Digital Water Marking Techniques and Uses intellectual property rights','Nandan Kumar1 and Prof. Sneha Jain2','Digital Water Marking Techniques and Uses intellectual property rights NANDAN KUMAR.pdf','',1,'','','','',''),(1284,'51','Network Congestion Minimization using Enhanced AOMDV Routing in MANET','Pooja Raikwar and Hitesh Gupta','Network Congestion Minimization using Enhanced AOMDV Routing in MANET POOJA RAIKWAR.pdf','',1,'','','','',''),(1285,'44','NIDSRL: Network Based Intrusion Detection System Using Reinforcement Learning','Darshana Kamavisdar and Prof. Ram Ratan Ahirwal','IJEECE-1093-DARSHANA KAMAVISDAR.pdf','',1,'','','','',''),(1286,'52','Owls in a densely populated landscape of Lucknow district within the gangetic plain, India','Daya Shanker Sharma1, Ankit Sinha1, Shivangi Mishra1, Adesh Kumar1, 2, Amita Kanaujia1, 2* ','Owls in a densely populated landscape of Lucknow district within the gangetic plain, India.pdf','',1,'','','','',''),(1287,'51','Modelling and Control of Single Inductor Dual Output DC-DC Converter','Pradumna Mishra and T.S. Reddy','Modelling and Control of Single Inductor Dual Output DC-DC Converter Pradumna Mishra.pdf','',1,'','','','',''),(1288,'49','Vegetational Distribution in a Mountainous Riparian Corridor along Neeru stream, Bhaderwah, Jammu and Kashmir','Anu Sharma and Neeraj Sharma','Vegetational Distribution in a Mountainous Riparian Corridor along Neeru stream, Bhaderwah Jammu and Kashmir ANU SHARMA.pdf','',1,'Riparian corridors are related to longitudinal and lateral patterns of plant species distribution as well as to species flows and exchanges across ecotonal and ecoclinal boundaries. The spatial distribution depends on a number of factors like physiography, hydrology, geo-morphology, climatic regime, substratum, light and temperature, etc. The present communication describes the distribution pattern of riparian vegetation along an elevational gradient of 1302 m along Neeru stream, a major left bank tributary of river Chenab. The results reveal that a large stretch of the riparian forest exhibits random followed by contagious and (negligible) regular pattern validating the better chances of species survival with adequate resource availability. When analyzed for occupancy frequency distribution, the vegetation showed homogenous distribution in the riparian and heterogeneous distribution along the upland forests. The whole corridor as a single linear unit was observed to be homogenous with','Abundance, Distribution pattern, Frequency, Heterogeneous, Homogeneous, Plant associations, Riparian, Upland','Raunkiaerâ€™s frequency classes reveal the highest frequency of occurrence of majority of species in class C and D pointing towards the homogeneity in the riparian corridor while the upland forests along both the banks were observed to be heterogeneous. The whole corridor as a single unit was however found to be homogenous. In terms of dispersion, the left bank upland forest showed random and riparian the contagious pattern. ','-','Anu Sharma and Neeraj Sharma (2018). Vegetational Distribution in a Mountainous Riparian Corridor along Neeru stream, Bhaderwah, Jammu and Kashmir. Biological Forum â€“ An International Journal, 10(2): 96-108(2018).'),(1289,'49','Invasion of Foreign Origin (Alien) Woody Plants in Seaside Adjara','Aleksandre Sharabidze*, Irakli Mikeladze**, Nani Gvarishvili*** and Murman Davitadze***','Invasion of Foreign Origin (Alien) Woody Plants in Seaside Adjara IRAKLI MIKELADZE.pdf','',1,'The researches carried during more than a century and half period from plantsâ€™ introduction in Adjara Black Sea Coastline shows, that great part of thousands of exotic experienced tree plants and bushes are growing successfully, without special agro-technical measures and they create various cenotic links. \r\nIntroduction of foreign plants in Adjara coastline has started for a long time ago. Introduction of exotic plants in seaside Adjara started in 80s of XIX Century. Primarily, at the initial stage of introduction, practical direction of it was expressed mostly, which was made by volunteers interested in importing foreign plants unreasonably. For the end of nineteenth century and the beginning of twentieth century the foundation is laid down forconstruction of Batumi Botanical Garden and introduction of foreign plants. For the end of XX century, they were represented by more than 2000 woody taxon. \r\n','Alien plant, Woody plant, Invasion, Cenosis, Adjara seaside, Black sea coastline, Adventive','As a result of accidental import of plants or plantsâ€™ introduction in seaside Adjara totally more than 2000 taxonsof woody plants are introduced during a century and a half period, from which 31 families, 51 genuses, \r\n\r\n71 species are invasive (feral) and are characterized with massive dissemination abilities. The mentioned species are adopted to local, soil climatic conditions, they are characterized by the ability of natural dissemination abilities, without human intervention and they create new cenotic links, with the participation of local species and in some cases, cenosis are represented bywoody plants of only foreign origin. \r\n','-','Aleksandre Sharabidze, Irakli Mikeladze, Nani Gvarishvili and Murman Davitadze (2018). Invasion of Foreign Origin (Alien) Woody Plants in Seaside Adjara. Biological Forum â€“ An International Journal, 10(2): 109-113(2018).'),(1290,'51','Stability Enhancement of Interconnected Power System under Small Disturbance','Prakash Rajput and Akhilesh Dwivedi ','Stability Enhancement of Interconnected Power System under Small Disturbance PRAKASH RAJPUT.pdf','',1,'','','','',''),(1291,'5','Investigation of the Noise Performance in SAR','Ms. Anamika Sharma, Dr. R.P. Singh and Dr. Sanjeev Gupta','ANAMIKA SHARMA DR SANJEEV GUPTA & DR RP SINGH.pdf','',0,'','','','',''),(1292,'49','Hydrothermal and Enzymatic Pretreatment of Apple Pomace for Bioethanol Production bySolid-state Fermentation','Karan Surya* and Dinesh Kumar*','Hydrothermal and Enzymatic Pretreatment of Apple Pomace for Bioethanol Production by Solid-state Fermentation DINESH KUMAR & KARAN SURYA.pdf','',1,'Apple pomace (AP) is agro-industrial lignocellulosic waste generated after extraction of juice from fresh apples. The main objective of this study was, pretreatment of apple pomace with reduced energy input and use of pretreated apple pomace in bioethanol production. In this study, dried apple pomace was pretreated using hydrothermal and enzymatic techniques. Combination of both pretreatments produced highest amount of reducing sugars i.e. 43.1 g/100 g dry matter (DM), which is 10.5 times higher than the initial level of reducing sugars (4.1 g/100 g DM) present in apple pomace. Pretreated apple pomace was further used as substrate in solid-state fermentation for ethanol production. Under optimized fermentation conditions using S. cerevisiae with co-culture (isolate APW-12), 17.5 g ethanol/100 g of dried apple pomace was obtained. In conclusion, high amount of reducing sugars were obtained from apple pomace with minimum use of chemicals, water and energy using hydrothermal and enzymatic','apple pomace, pretreatment, Saccharomyces cerevisiae, co-culture, solid-state fermentation, ethanol production','The present study reveals that combination of enzymatic and hydrothermal pretreatment increased reducing sugars availibility in apple pomace by 10.5 fold from initial level of reducing sugars. Also, this pretreatment process does not involve use of any chemicals and lasts only for one hour, making it simple and cost effective for use at industrial scale. Furthermore, optimization of solid-state fermentation for ethanol production by using pretreated apple pomace as substrate resulted in 17.5 g ethanol from 100 g of apple pomace.','-','Karan Surya and Dinesh Kumar (2018). Hydrothermal and Enzymatic Pretreatment of Apple Pomace for Bioethanol Production by Solid-state Fermentation. Biological Forum â€“ An International Journal, 10(2): 114-120.'),(1293,'52','Some rare and interesting fungal species of phylum Ascomycota from Western Ghats of Maharashtra: A taxonomic approach','Rashmi Dubey','3_JNBR_7(3)_2018.pdf','',1,'','','','',''),(1294,'49','Hydrothermal and Enzymatic Pretreatment of Apple Pomace for Bioethanol Production by Solid-state Fermentation','Karan Surya* and Dinesh Kumar*','Hydrothermal and Enzymatic Pretreatment of Apple Pomace for Bioethanol Production by Solid-state Fermentation DINESH KUMAR & KARAN SURYA.pdf','',0,'','','','',''),(1295,'39','Showcasing Stratagems of Indian Auto Establishments: A Case Study of Hyundai Motor India Limited','Mohammad Sajid , Prof. (Dr.) R.K. Khajwaniya and Prof. (Dr.) N.C. Jain','Showcasing Stratagems of Indian Auto Establishments A Case Study of Hyundai Motor India Limited MOHAMMAD SAJID.pdf','',1,'','','','',''),(1296,'48','A Review of Digital Water Marking in protect information copyright info privacy Techniques','Nandan Kumar and Prof. Sneha Jain','A Review of Digital Water Marking in protect information copyright info privacy Techniques.pdf','',1,'','','','',''),(1297,'48','Comparison of Second Law Efficiency of Halocarbon Refrigerants Ethane Series Influenced by Evaporator Temperature for Vapour Compression Refrigeration System','Durvesh Kachawe and Dr. Nitin Tenguria','Comparison of Second Law Efficiency of Halocarbon Refrigerants Ethane Series Influenced by Evaporator Temperature for Vapour Compression Refrigeration System.pdf','',1,'','','','',''),(1298,'51','Intrusion Detection Framework using Correlation based Feature Selection over Cloud','Sanjeet Choudhary , Varsha Namdeo and Abhijit Dwivedi ','Intrusion Detection Framework using Correlation based Feature Selection over Cloud SANJEET CHOUDHARY.pdf','',1,'','','','',''),(1299,'51','Face Recognition in the Mismatch Condition using Convolutional Neural Network','Rahul Kumar and Prof Amit Shrivastava','Face Recognition in the Mismatch Condition using Convolutional Neural Network RAHUL KUMAR AND PROF AMIT SHRIVASTAVA.pdf','',1,'','','','',''),(1300,'39','A Study of Management of Workersâ€™ Safety Labour Welfare practices in Private Enterprises in Mandideep','Shishir Shukla, Dr. B.D. Pandeyand Dr. Rishi Sharma3','A Study of Management of Workersâ€™ Safety Labour Welfare practices in Private Enterprises in Mandideep SHISHIR SHUKLA.pdf','',1,'','','','',''),(1301,'39','An Analysis of ASEAN Initiatives for Narrowing the Development Gap: Issues and\r\nChallenges','Dr. Harsh Jhamb and Meena Singh','An Analysis of ASEAN Initiatives for Narrowing the Development Gap Issues and Challenges MEENA SINGH.pdf','',1,'','','','',''),(1302,'51','Energy Efficiency in Massive MIMO-Based 5G Networks System','Priyanka Tiwari and Dr. Rajesh Nema','Energy Efficiency in Massive MIMO-Based 5G Networks System PRIYANKA TIWARI.pdf','',1,'','','','',''),(1303,'51','A Review of Various Single Channel and Multi-Channel Transient Noise Reduction Techniques','Shilpi Dwivedi and Sneha Jain','A Review of Various Single Channel and Multi-Channel Transient Noise Reduction Techniques SHILPI DWIVEDI.pdf','',1,'','','','',''),(1304,'48','A Review Energy Efficiency in Massive MIMO-Based 5G Networks System','Priyanka Tiwari and Dr. Rajesh Nema','A Review Energy Efficiency in Massive MIMO-Based 5G Networks System.pdf','',1,'','','','',''),(1305,'48','Noise Reduction for Speech Improvement with Correlation based Method','Shilpi Dwivedi and Sneha Jain','Noise Reduction for Speech Improvement with Correlation based Method SHILPI DWIVEDI.pdf','',1,'','','','',''),(1306,'52','New Distributional Record of Christisonia scortechinii Prain (Orobanchaceae) from \r\nMindanao, Philippines ','Noe P. Mendez, Rainear A. Mendez, Aldrin L. Hongco, Romeo R. Patano, Jr. Daniel O. Amper, Daniel F. Somera\r\n,\r\n\r\nAlma B. Mohagan1,2','4_JNBR_7(3)_2018.pdf','',1,'','','','',''),(1307,'51','Image Enhancement Methods and Applications in Computational\r\nPhotography ','Shailendra Singh Rajpoot','Image Enhancement Methods and Applications in Computational Photography SHAILENDRA SINGH RAJPOOT.pdf','',1,'','','','',''),(1309,'51','Image Restoration Model Using Wavelet Based Image Fusion','Deepshi Lodhi1 and Prof. Amit Shrivastava2','Image Restoration Model Using Wavelet Based Image Fusion DEEPSHI LODHI.pdf','',1,'','','','',''),(1310,'51','An Isotropic Approach for Image Patching ','Ashutosh Garg1 and Prof Amit Shrivastava2\r\n\r\n','An Isotropic Approach for Image Patching ASHUTOSH GARG & AMIT VNS.pdf','',1,'','','','',''),(1311,'52','Pathogenicity Events in Plant Pathogenic Bacteria: A brief note','Naiya Sharma and Ajay Kumar Gautam* ','5_JNBR_7(3)_2018.pdf','',1,'','','','',''),(1312,'48','Improvement of Engineering Properties of Concrete with Replacement of Egg Shell Powder as Cement & Waste Demolished Concrete as Fine Sand','Harvinder Singh1, Jaswinder Singh2 and Sameer Malhotra3','Improvement of Engineering Properties of Concrete with Replacement of Egg Shell Powder as Cement & Waste Demolished Concrete as Fine Sand HARWINDER SINGH.pdf','',1,'','','','',''),(1313,'53','Image Binarization of Deteriorated Historical Documents for\r\nDocument Image Analysis','Isra Naqvi1 and Abdul Samee Khan2','Image Binarization of Deteriorated Historical Documents for Document Image Analysis Isra Naqvi.pdf','',1,'','','','',''),(1318,'54','Irreversible Histopathological Modifications Induced by Iron Oxide\r\nNanoparticles in the Fish, Oreochromis mossambicus (Peters, 1852)','P.V. Vidya and K.C. Chitra','Irreversible Histopathological Modifications Induced by Iron Oxide Nanoparticles in the Fish, Oreochromis mossambicus (Peters, 1852) DR KC CHITRA1.pdf','',1,'The aim of present study is to investigate if the histopathological alterations induced by iron oxide nanoparticles (Fe3O4NPs) in the fish Oreochromis mossambicus is reversible after the treatment withdrawal. Sublethal concentration (15 mg/L) of Fe3O4NPs was exposed to fish for short-term (96 h) and long-term (60 days) durations along with control group. Histopathological modifications in gill, liver and brain tissue were examined after the exposure periods. Gill tissue showed blebbing of gill epithelium, mucous deposition, vacuolization, hyperplasia of gill arches, aneurysm and loss of secondary lamella after short- term and long-term exposure of nanoparticles. Exposure to Fe3O4NPs in liver tissue resulted in segmentation of hepatocytes, vacuolization, spindle shaped nucleus, necrosis and aggregation of melanomacrophages, where the severity of lesions increased in time-dependent manner. Lesions of brain tissue included degeneration and severe loss of granular cells after 96 h followed','Fe3O4NPs, Gill, Liver, Brain, Histopathology, Oreochromis mossambicus.','To brief, Fe3O4NPs at sublethal concentration caused pronounced tissue damage to the fish, which is irreversible. Thus proper measures should be taken to avoid the release of nanoparticles into the aquatic ecosystems, or else eventually leads to the change in physiological and behavioural modifications and finally results in the decline of fish population. ','-','Vidya, P.V. and Chitra, K.C. (2019). Irreversible Histopathological Modifications Induced by Iron Oxide Nanoparticles in the Fish, Oreochromis mossambicus (Peters, 1852). Biological Forum â€“ An International Journal, 11(1): 01-06.'),(1319,'54','Effect of Post Methanated Distillery Effluent (PMDE) on Cane Yield,\r\nSugar Yield and Quality of Sugarcane (Var.CO 86032) Crop Growth','T. Sherene, K. Ramasamy, V. Ravikumar and K. Kurinji','Effect of Post Methanated Distillery Effluent (PMDE) on Cane Yield, Sugar Yield and Quality of Sugarcane (Var.CO 86032) Crop Growth T SHERENE.pdf','',1,'An investigation was carried out to study the effect of graded levels of PMDE integrated with graded levels of soil test based NPK on cane and sugar yield of sugarcane crop var. CO 86032. by conducting field experiment in Agricultural Engineering College and Research Institute, Kumulur, Tiruchirappalli district along with famerâ€™s holdings. The experimental soil was mixed black with sandy clay loam belonging to Poovalur series (Typic Haplustalf). The PMDE was applied in graded doses (main plot treatments) thoroughly mixed and allowed for natural oxidation. Different combinations of NP fertilizers (50, 75 and 100 %) with 0 and 50 per cent and K were imposed as sub plot treatments. The experiment was conducted in split plot design and treatments were replicated thrice. The cane and sugar yield of sugarcane crop got increased by the application of PMDE. The cane yield increase was in the tune of 53.9 per cent over control. The application of PMDE @ 30,000 l ha-1 with N100P100K0 in sugarc','distillery effluent, post methanation, sugarcane','Application of PMDE enhances the soil fertility in terms of organic carbon and available nutrients. The cane and sugar yield of sugarcane gets increased by the application of PMDE. The increase of cane yield was in the tune of 53.9 per cent over control. The application of PMDE @ 30,000 l ha-1 with N100P100K0 in sugarcane grown in sandy clay loam soil recorded the highest cane and sugar yield and hence the expenditure on K fertilizer could be saved. Thus, highest yield with lowest expenditure is obtained.','-','Sherene, T., Ramasamy, K., Ravikumar, V. and Kurinji, K. (2019). Effect of Post Methanated Distillery Effluent (PMDE) on Cane Yield, Sugar Yield and Quality of Sugarcane (Var.CO 86032) Crop Growth. Biological Forum â€“ An International Journal, 11(1): 07-'),(1320,'54','A study on the Effects of using the Essential Oil of Medicinal Plants\r\n(Cinnamon, Fennel, Clove) and Storage Temperature on\r\nPhysicochemical Characteristics and Marketability of Date Fruit of\r\nHalilehei Cultivar','Maryam Mohammadi, Bahman Panahi and Najme Soleimani Dehdivan','A study on the Effects of using the Essential Oil of Medicinal Plants (Cinnamon, Fennel, Clove) and Storage Temperature on Physicochemical Characteristics and Marketability of Date Fruit of BAHMAN PANAHI.pdf','',1,'Halilehei date is considered as a cultivar of fresh date fruit. There is no study conducted on this cultivar and any countable resource available on the chemical characteristics of this cultivar so far. Therefore, to investigate the Halilehei cultivar and the effect of using the essential oil of medical plants (cinnamon, fennel, and clove) on physiochemical characteristics of this type of date fruit, a factorial experiment was conducted based on a completely randomized block design with three replications, and different mean of essential oils and their effects on Halilehei cultivar were investigated and compared using Duncan\'s test. The treatments consisted of different concentrations of Halilehei cultivar. After washing and draying the dates, they were sprayed with the essential oils of cinnamon, fennel, and clove in concentrations of 200, 400, 600, and 800 Âµl.l-1, and packaged into cardboard cartons with plastic film in the weight 300Â±500 g. After two months, the levels of humidity','Halilehei date, Cinnamon essential oil, Fennel essential oil, Clove essential oil','Halilehei date is considered as a cultivar of fresh date fruit. There is no study conducted on this cultivar and any countable resource available on the chemical characteristics of this cultivar so far. Therefore, to investigate the Halilehei cultivar and the effect of using the essential oil of medical plants (cinnamon, fennel, and clove) on physiochemical characteristics of this type of date fruit, a factorial experiment was conducted based on a completely randomized block design with three replications, and different mean of essential oils and their effects on Halilehei cultivar were investigated and compared using Duncan\'s test. The treatments consisted of different concentrations of Halilehei cultivar. After washing and draying the dates, they were sprayed with the essential oils of cinnamon, fennel, and clove in concentrations of 200, 400, 600, and 800 Âµl.l-1, and packaged into cardboard cartons with plastic film in the weight 300Â±500 g. After two months, the levels of humidity','-','Maryam Mohammadi, Bahman Panahi and Najme Soleimani Dehdivan (2019). A study on the effects of using the essential oil of medicinal plants (cinnamon, fennel, clove) and storage temperature on physiochemical characteristics and marketability of date fruit '),(1321,'54','Studies on the Impact of Growing Transgenic Cotton on Soil Health in\r\nMajor Bt cotton Growing areas of Tamil Nadu, India','T. Sherene, R. Kavimani and Bharathi Kumar','Studies on the Impact of Growing Transgenic Cotton on Soil Health in Major Bt cotton Growing areas of Tamil Nadu, India T SHERENE.pdf','',1,'There is a persistent environmental concern that transgenic Bt-crops have indirect undesirable effect to natural and agroecosystem function. We investigated the effect of Bt-cotton (with Cry 1 Ac gene) on soil biology in Bt cotton growing soils of Perambalur district, Tamil Nadu under rainfed scenario. Soil samples randomly from ten Bt cotton growing fields were selected in each of the taluks of Perambalur district of Tamil Nadu region, India, where Bt-cotton has been growing at least for ten continuous years and side by side non-Bt cotton grown soils were also collected to compare the extent of adverse effect of Bt toxin, if any. Samples were analyzed for various soil biological indicators like microbial population, microbial respiration, Microbial Biomass Carbon (MBC), Microbial Biomass Nitrogen (MBN), and soil Dehydrogenase (DHA) activities. The soil biological indicators like microbial population, soil respiration, DHA, MBC and MBN were found to be comparitively higher in Btgrown ','Soil health, Transgenic cotton, soil biological Ãndices','This study has demonstrated that cultivation of transgenic Bt cotton expressing cry1Ac gene had no adverse effects on soil bioÂ¬logical activities such as microÂ¬bial population, soil respiration, dehydrogenase activity, microbial biomass carbon, and microbial bio mass nitrogen. Based on the overall observations, growing Bt cotton was found to have a positive impact on soil biological activities. Our results suggest that cultivation of Bt cotton expressing cry1Ac gene may not pose ecological or environmental risk. Thus, the transgenic plants, either through the products of introduced genes and modified rhizosphere chemistry or through altered crop residue quality, have the potential to significantly change the essential ecosystem functions such as nutrient mineralization, carbon turnover and plant growth under long run. It needs continuous monitoring of Bt cotton grown soil environment for their biological indicators.\r\n\r\n','-','T. Sherene, R. Kavimani and Bharathi Kumar (2019). Studies on the impact of growing Transgenic cotton on Soil Health in major Bt cotton growing areas of Tamil Nadu, India. Biological Forum â€“ An International Journal, 11(1): 18-23.'),(1322,'55','Some String Cosmological Models in Bianchi Type III Space-Time with\r\nMagnetic Field and Vacuum Energy Density','Raj Bali1 and Subhash C. Bola2','Some String Cosmological Models in Bianchi Type III Space-Time with Magnetic Field and Vacuum Energy Density BAJI & BHOLA.pdf','',1,'','','','',''),(1323,'55','Common Fixed Point Theorem in Probabilistic 2-Metric Space by\r\nWeak Compatibility','V. K. Gupta1, Arihant Jain2 and Rajesh Kumar1','Common Fixed Point Theorem in Probabilistic 2-Metric Space by Weak Compatibility Arihant Jain and Rajesh Kumar.pdf','',1,'','','','',''),(1324,'55','Compatible Mappings of Type (K) and Fixed Point Theorem in\r\nComplete Metric Space','V. K. Gupta1, Arihant Jain2 and Ram Babu Dangi1','Compatible Mappings of Type (K) and Fixed Point Theorem in Complete Metric Space Arihant Jain and Ram Babu Dangi.pdf','',1,'','','','',''),(1325,'54','Early Pathogenicity events in Plant Pathogenic Fungi: A\r\nComprehensive Review','Naiya Sharma and Ajay Kumar Gautam','Early Pathogenicity events in Plant Pathogenic Fungi A Comprehensive Review SHARMA AND GAUTAM.pdf','',1,'The mechanism of pathogenesis in fungi involves use of mechanical forces (formation of appressoria and penetration of the host cuticle and cell wall), chemical weapons including enzymes (cutinases, pectinases, cellulases etc) toxins and growth regulators. Pathogen overcomes different host barriers either by quiescence, detoxification phytoanticipins, phytoalexins, ATP binding cassette (ABC) transporters, suppression of active oxygen species, toxins production and by prevention of senescence cytokinin. Plant pathogenic fungi exhibit a huge variability in their mode of infection, differentiation and function of infection structures and nutritional strategy. Successful penetration of living plant tissue by fungal pathogens is preceded by an exchange of signals between both organisms. Recent mutational approaches revealed the importance of cAMP-dependent signaling pathways for fungal development and virulence on their hosts. Plant pathogenic fungi have developed different lifestyles and mo','Appresoria, Quiescence, Phytoalexins,Active oxygen species.','The mechanism of pathogenesis in fungi involves use of mechanical forces (formation of appressoria and penetration of the host cuticle and cell wall), chemical weapons including enzymes (cutinases, pectinases, cellulases etc) toxins and growth regulators. Pathogen overcomes different host barriers either by quiescence, detoxification phytoanticipins, phytoalexins, ATP binding cassette (ABC) transporters, suppression of active oxygen species, toxins production and by prevention of senescence cytokinin. Plant pathogenic fungi exhibit a huge variability in their mode of infection, differentiation and function of infection structures and nutritional strategy. Successful penetration of living plant tissue by fungal pathogens is preceded by an exchange of signals between both organisms. Recent mutational approaches revealed the importance of cAMP-dependent signaling pathways for fungal development and virulence on their hosts. Plant pathogenic fungi have developed different lifestyles and mo','-','Sharma, N. and Gautam, A.K. (2019). Early Pathogenicity events in Plant Pathogenic Fungi: A Comprehensive Review. Biological Forum â€“ An International Journal, 11(1): 24-34.'),(1326,'53','Performance of a GA based PSS with Tie-line Active-Power deviation\r\nFeedback ','Mahfuj Alam1 and Kumar Prabhakar2','Performance of a GA based PSS with Tie-line Active-Power deviation Feedback MAHFUJ ALAM AND KUMAR PRABHAKAR.pdf','',1,'','','','',''),(1327,'56','New records of hyphomycetous fungi from North\r\nWestern Himalayas','Rajnish Kumar Verma1,2*, I. B. Prasher2, Sushma2','JNBR_8(1)_2019.pdf','',1,'','','','',''),(1328,'54','Antimicrobial and Antioxidant Potential of Hibiscus Rosa-sinensis L.\r\nin Western Himalaya','Sarvjeet Singh, Abha Gupta, Amita Kumari and Rachna Verma','Antimicrobial and Antioxidant Potential of Hibiscus Rosa-sinensis L. in Western Himalaya RACHNA VERMA.pdf','',1,'Hibiscus rosa-sinensis L. is a medicinal plant found in western Himalaya. Methanol and ethanol flower extracts of Hibiscus rosa-sinensis were investigated in present study for its antibacterial and antioxidant activities from western Himalaya. Disc diffusion method was used for determining antimicrobial properties of flower extracts of the plant against standard and clinical isolates of pathogenic bacteria. Methanolic and ethanolic extract showed maximum antimicrobial activity against standard isolate of Pseudomonas aeruginosa which was observed as 11.4Â±1.7mm and 13.60Â±2.1mm respectively. The ethanolic extract showed more antimicrobial activity than methanolic extract. The antioxidant property was evaluated by free radical scavenging activity by DPPH assay with IC50 value of 19.54. Thus, the medicinal potential of plant by virtue of its antioxidant and antimicrobial activity could be harnessed for drug formulation. ','Medicinal plants; Antimicrobial activity; Antioxidant activity; DPPH assay; Disc diffusion. ','Present study on profiling of antimicrobial and antioxidant properties of Hibiscus rosa-sinensis from Solan, Himachal Pradesh has confirmed medicinal potential of plant. The secondary metabolites of the plant can help in virtue of modern medicines. The flower extract of Hibiscus rosa-sinensis has wide range of biological activities such as antibacterial, anti-cancerous, antifungal, antiviral and anti-inflammatory. Results of antimicrobial activity against bacterial strains showed maximum activity against standard strain of Pseudomonas aeruginosa (13.6Â±2.07mm) in ethanolic extract at concentration of 200Âµg/disc. \r\n In present study comparison of both methanol and ethanol extract shows wide range of antimicrobial activity against different bacterial strains and suggests that ethanolic extract shows more inhibition then methanolic extract at 200Âµg/disc. The results of the DPPH assay suggest that Hibiscus rosa-sinensis have antioxidant potential or free radical scavenging activity. T','-','Sarvjeet Singh, Abha Gupta, Amita Kumari and Rachna Verma (2019). Antimicrobial and Antioxidant Potential of Hibiscus Rosa-Sinensis L. in Western Himalaya. Biological Forum â€“ An International Journal, 11(1): 35-40.'),(1329,'54','A Checklist of Orchids of Shola and Grasslands of Nilgiris, Western\r\nGhats, India','Selvaraj Jeevith, Cheravengat Kunhikannan, Chinnaiyan Rajasekar and Ponnusamy Samydurai','A Checklist of Orchids of Shola and Grasslands of Nilgiris Western Ghats India SELVARAJ JEEVITH.pdf','',1,'The present paper shows the orchids diversity in shola forest and grasslands of Nilgiris, Tamil Nadu. A total of 37 species belonging to 23 genera have been recorded. Of these, 19 are epiphytic and 18 are terrestrial. Bulbophyllum mysorense and Oberonia swaminathanii are reported here as new records to Orchidaceae of Nilgiris.','Nilgiris, Orchids, Shola and grasslands','The present paper shows the orchids diversity in shola forest and grasslands of Nilgiris, Tamil Nadu. A total of 37 species belonging to 23 genera have been recorded. Of these, 19 are epiphytic and 18 are terrestrial. Bulbophyllum mysorense and Oberonia swaminathanii are reported here as new records to Orchidaceae of Nilgiris.','-','Selvaraj Jeevith, Cheravengat Kunhikannan, Chinnaiyan Rajasekar and Ponnusamy Samydurai (2019). A Checklist of Orchids of Shola and Grasslands of Nilgiris, Western Ghats, India. Biological Forum â€“ An International Journal, 11(1): 41-46.'),(1330,'54','Taxonomic Evaluation of Euphorbiaceae sensu lato with Special\r\nReference to Phyllanthaceae as a New Family to the Flora of Egypt','Abdel Aziz Fayed, Mohamed Soliman, Ahamed Faried and Mona Hassan','Taxonomic Evaluation of Euphorbiaceae sensu lato with Special Reference to Phyllanthaceae as a New Family to the Flora of Egypt MONA HASSAN1.pdf','',1,'Phyllanthaceae is one of five segregates families of Euphorbiaceae sensu lato according to Angiosperm Phylogeny Group system. It shares some morphological characters with Euphorbiaceae sensu stricto such as unisexual flowers, syncarpous ovary, axile-apical placentation and absence of pistillode. A critical taxonomic revision of six genera and 10 taxa belonging to both Phyllanthaceae and Euphorbiaceae in Egypt is presented. The study was carried out on herbarium specimens as well as fresh materials of the genera: Andrachne, Flueggea, Phyllanthus (Phyllanthaceae) and Ricinus, Mercurialis, Jatropha (Euphorbiaceae). Nomenclature, type citations and keys to the genera and all species are provided. Synonyms, ecology, regional and worldwide distribution, phenology, list of representative examined specimens together with line drawing for leaves, stipules, staminate and pistillate flowers, female calyx and fruits are including for each taxon. The results reveal that Phyllanthaceae differ mainl','Andrachne, Flueggea, Jatropha, Mercurialis, Phyllanthus, Ricinus.','In general view, this study reveals that family Euphorbiaceae s.l. in Egypt should segregates into two distinct families: Euphorbiaceae s.s. and Phyllanthaceae, in which the later consider as a new family to the flora of Egypt.','-','Abdel Aziz Fayed, Mohamed Soliman, Ahamed Faried and Mona Hassan (2019). Taxonomic evaluation of Euphorbiaceae sensu lato with special reference to Phyllanthaceae as a new family to the flora of Egypt. Biological Forum â€“ An International Journal, 11(1):'),(1331,'57','Heating/Cooling Techniques used in Green Buildings: A Review','Suresh Kumar Soni','Heating Cooling Techniques used in Green Buildings A Review -SURESH KUMAR SONI.pdf','',1,'','','','',''),(1332,'20','Thermo Gravimetric Analysis of Cellulose Extracted from Wheat\r\nStraw of Himachal Pradesh, India','Yogesh Kumar Walia and Swadesh Kumar','Thermo Gravimetric Analysis of Cellulose Extracted from Wheat Straw of Himachal Pradesh, India SWADESH.pdf','',1,'','','','',''),(1333,'20','Mathematical Model for Drag Reduction due to Injection of Polymer\r\nSolutions into Laminar Flow in a Pipe','Dr. Jaipal1 and Prateek Goel2','Mathematical Model for Drag Reduction due to Injection of Polymer Solutions into Laminar Flow in a Pipe JAIPAL.pdf','',1,'','','','',''),(1334,'39','The State of Employment during Recession and Economic Slowdown','Pankaj Kumar Singh1 and Dr. Neha Mathur2','The State of Employment during Recession and Economic Slowdown PANKAJ KUMAR SINGH.pdf','',1,'','','','',''),(1335,'39','The State of Employment during Recession and Economic Slowdown','Pankaj Kumar Singh1 and Dr. Neha Mathur2','The State of Employment during Recession and Economic Slowdown PANKAJ KUMAR SINGH.pdf','',1,'','','','',''),(1336,'54','Evaluation of Anticonvulsant Activity of Ethanolic & Aqueous Extract\r\nof Hemidesmus indicus L. Stem & Leaves and Lantana camara L.\r\nStem & Flowers on Experimental Animals','Javed Khan Pathan, Girendra Gautam and Arun Kumar Gupta','Evaluation of Anticonvulsant Activity of Ethanolic & Aqueous Extract of Hemidesmus indicus L. Stem & Leaves and Lantana camara L. Stem & Flowers on Experimental Animals.pdf','',1,'The aim of present study was to investigate anticonvulsant activity of ethanolic & aqueous extract of stem & leaves of Hemidesmus indicus and ethanolic & aqueous extract of stem & flowers of Lantana camara in wistar rats. Anticonvulsant activity was studied against maximal electroshock seizure (MES) induced convulsions in rats. The extracts suppressed hind limb tonic extensions (HLTE) induced by MES induced seizures. Study includes ethanolic & aqueous extract of stem & leaves of Hemidesmus indicus (200 and 400 mg/kg, p.o.) and ethanolic & aqueous extract of stem & flowers of Lantana camara (200 and 400 mg/kg, p.o.). The latency of tonic convulsions and the number of animals protected from tonic convulsions were noted. The effects were compared to those of Phenobarbitone (30 mg/kg, i.p). The preliminary phytochemical analysis identiï¬ed alkaloids, flavonoids, saponins and large amounts of cardiac glycosides, triterpenoids, phenolic compounds and tannins in extracts. The extracts of H. ','Hemidesmus indicus, Lantana camara, anti-convulsant activity, maximal electro shock, MES, GABA, hind limb tonic extension seizure (HLTE), H. indicus, L. camara.','The results obtained from the study suggested that stem & leaves extracts of H. indicus and stem & flowers extracts of L. camara have excellent anti-convulsant property which are possibly mediated partly via facilitation of GABA transmission and the results verify its traditional use in epilepsy. \r\nIt has been minutely observed that aqueous extracts of both plant parts exhibit better anticonvulsant property than that of ethanolic extracts of both plants.\r\nSecondly it has been found that ethanolic extract & aqueous extract of H.indicus stem have 87.05% and 89.01% respectively and ethanolic extract & aqueous extract of same H. indicus leaves have 82.15% and 88.23% respectively.\r\nThirdly observed that ethanolic extract & aqueous extract of L. camara stem have 83.00% and 87.00% respectively and ethanolic extract & aqueous extract of same L. camara flowers have 78.00% and 84.31% respectively as compare to the standard drug. In totality finding clearly shows that aqueous extracts are better ','-','Javed Khan Pathan, Girendra Gautam and Arun Kumar Gupta (2019). Evaluation of Anticonvulsant Activity of Ethanolic & Aqueous Extract of Hemidesmus Indicus L. Stem & Leaves and Lantana Camara L. Stem & Flowers on Experimental Animals. Biological Forum â€“ '),(1337,'54','Role of Polyamines and Endo-mycorrhiza on Leaf Morphology of\r\nSorghum Grown under Cadmium Toxicity','Prasann Kumar, Anaytullah Siddique, Jayanti Yomso, Komal and Shipa Rani Dey','Role of Polyamines and Endo-mycorrhiza on Leaf Morphology of Sorghum Grown under Cadmium Toxicity -PRASANN KUMAR.pdf','',1,'The present study was carried out to evaluate the compatibility of polyamines and mycorrhiza in the mitigation of induced toxic effect of cadmium at 30, 60 and 90 DAS older of sorghum variety CSV15. The significant hazardous effects and oxidative damage of cadmium nitrate (70 ppm and 150ppm) were evidenced by decreased leaf length, width and area. The reverse responses were observed d by the external application of putrescine (2.5 and 5.0 mM) and mycorrhiza (Glomus; 150 inoculants per kg of soil). ','Abiotic, Biotic, Crop, Density, Economy, Foliar, Gap, Higher','Polyamines like putrescine and mycorrhiza Glomus impart significant mitigation of cadmium induced toxicity in sorghum mediated through their defensive role in plants by increasing the length, width and area in the sorghum leaves','-','Prasann Kumar, Anaytullah Siddique, Jayanti Yomso, Komal and Shipa Rani Dey (2019). Role of Polyamines and Endo-mycorrhiza on Leaf Morphology of Sorghum Grown under Cadmium Toxicity.. Biological Forum â€“ An International Journal, 11(1): 72-76.'),(1338,'54','In Silico Protein-Ligand Docking Studies on Thiazolidinediones\r\nanalogs as Potential Aldose reductase Inhibitors','Neelam Khan, Girendra Gautam and Arun K.Gupta','In Silico Protein-Ligand Docking Studies on Thiazolidinediones analogs as Potential Aldose reductase Inhibitors.pdf','',1,'Aldose reductase (ALR) enzyme plays a key role in polyol pathway, there is conversion of excess amount of glucose into sorbitol and inhibit secondary complication of diabetes mellitus. The docking study is explored the structural interaction between ligand and enzyme to developed more effective ALR inhibitors. The docking study was performed on a substituted thiazolidinedione derivatives as potential aldose reductase inhibitor and these compounds were carried out, by using Molegro Virtual Docker v 6.0 on a set of representative compounds within the active site region of 4lua. Based on the validations and hydrogen bond interactions with at least two key active site residues made by R substituents were considered for evaluation. The docking results of most stable binding ligand Thr 113, Lys 21 with Moldock score -136.518 involved in 2 hydrogen bonds with amino acid residues, within the binding site region of 4lua. Although, other H-bond interactions exist, these hydrogen bonds are releva','Aldose reductase (AR) enzyme, Molecular Docking, Thiazolidinediones, A Rinhibitors (ARI) Molegro Virtual Docker (MVD)','The docking studies detailed above provide estimates of the inhibitory activities of the docked ligand. The results show that thiazolidinedione derivatives (TA01-11) observed with inhibitory activity of aldose reductase enzyme and also interact with the residues in the active site which are important for their biological activity, thus, thiazolidinedione derivative (TA-03) compound could be a putative inhibitor of aldose reductase and can be used to prevent the onset/treatment of diabetic complication.','-','Neelam Khan, Girendra Gautam and Arun K. Gupta (2019). In Silico Protein-Ligand Docking Studies on Thiazolidinediones analogs as Potential Aldose reductase Inhibitors. Biological Forum â€“ An International Journal, 11(1): 77-83.'),(1339,'34','Investigation of Dyes and Certain Chemical Parameters in Water\r\nSamples around Cloth Dyeing Industry during different Seasons','Shashi Kumar and Yogesh Kumar Walia','Investigation of Dyes and Certain Chemical Parameters in Water Samples around Cloth Dyeing Industry during different Seasons Shashi Kumar Walia.pdf','',1,'','','','',''),(1340,'34','Hg-Normal and Hg-Regular Spaces','Rajni Bala','Hg-Normal and Hg-Regular Spaces RAJNI BALA.pdf','',1,'','','','',''),(1341,'54','Revealing Potential Regulatory Genes and Modules Involved in Salt\r\nTolerance using a Comparative Microarray Analysis of Rice at\r\nSeedling Stage','Zahra Zinati and Azar Delavari','Revealing Potential Regulatory Genes and Modules Involved in Salt Tolerance using a Comparative Microarray Analysis of Rice at Seedling Stage ZAHRA ZINATI.pdf','',1,'Deciphering the regulatory mechanisms by which plants cope with salt stress is an indispensable prerequisite for the identification of the regulators to engineer salinity tolerance. To this end, a comparative transcriptome analysis of the extremely tolerant and extremely sensitive recombinant inbred lines bulks derived from a cross between salt-tolerant variety CSR 27 and salt-sensitive variety MI 48was carried out using microarray data analysis, Gene Ontology (GO) enrichment and network analysis. According to the results, 50 and 286 genes showed differential expression in the tolerant bulk as compared with the sensitive bulk under control and salt stress conditions, respectively. The most enriched GO terms of differentially expressed genes (DEGs) under salt stress were the metabolic process, the cellular process, localization (transport) and response to the stimulus. Network analysis of DEGs under salt stress, revealed 14 genes as critical genes; among them, three transcription facto','network analysis, Oryza sativa, salt stress, transcription factors','The comparative transcriptome analysis of stress-sensitive and â€“tolerant genotypes provides valuable information in elucidating the molecular mechanism mediating salt stress response in rice. This study was designed to identify key genes associated with salt tolerance mechanisms in rice with special emphasis on the role of transcription factors. Our study revealed candidate genes related to salt tolerance of rice at the seedling stage and exhibited the usefulness of using bioinformatics analyses on DEGs to better understanding the molecular systems that underlie salt tolerance. This research has laid a foundation for functional genomics investigations to decipher their precise role of candidate genes in salt stress response in rice seedlings and be targeted for genetic improvement of salinity tolerance in rice.','-','Zahra Zinati and Azar Delavari (2019). Revealing Potential Regulatory Genes and Modules Involved in Salt Tolerance using a Comparative Microarray Analysis of Rice at Seedling Stage. Biological Forum â€“ An International Journal, 11(1): 84-94.'),(1342,'54','Assessment of Impact of Eupatorium adenophorum Spren. on\r\nthe Plant Diversity in Tanakpur Range, Champawat Forest Division,\r\nUttarakhand','A. Chandra, A.K. Dhakad, P.K. Verma, J. Saxena and A.K. Raut','Assessment of Impact of Eupatorium adenophorum Spren. on the Plant Diversity in Tanakpur Range Champawat Forest Division Uttarakhand ANUP CHANDRA.pdf','',1,'Impact study of Eupatorium adenophorum Spren. on the indigenous flora in the Tanakpur Range of Champawat district, Uttarakhand was carried out. Species richness, IVI and plant diversity indices of Eupatorium impacted and non Eupatorium impacted (Control) sites were studied. Tree density in the present study was reported to be 4.7 and 4.4 for control and infested sites respectively. TBA (cm2 100m-2) and density (P 100m-2) values are reported 241 and 29 for the Shrubby layer respectively and 1.56 and 13.3 for the herbaceous layer respectively. In both shrubby and herbaceous layers, biodiversity indices such as species richness, diversity index and evenness was recorded higher in control site than infested site. Concentration of dominance was higher in the herbaceous layer. It reveals study that Eupatorium is causing tremendous impact on the indigenous plant diversity. Hence, spread of invasive species can be checked by adopting suitable conservation measures. Local people can be educ',' Invasive Alien Species, Species richness, Diversity index, Concentration of dominance','Impact study of Eupatorium adenophorum Spren. on the indigenous flora in the Tanakpur Range of Champawat district, Uttarakhand was carried out. Species richness, IVI and plant diversity indices of Eupatorium impacted and non Eupatorium impacted (Control) sites were studied. Tree density in the present study was reported to be 4.7 and 4.4 for control and infested sites respectively. TBA (cm2 100m-2) and density (P 100m-2) values are reported 241 and 29 for the Shrubby layer respectively and 1.56 and 13.3 for the herbaceous layer respectively. In both shrubby and herbaceous layers, biodiversity indices such as species richness, diversity index and evenness was recorded higher in control site than infested site. Concentration of dominance was higher in the herbaceous layer. It reveals study that Eupatorium is causing tremendous impact on the indigenous plant diversity. Hence, spread of invasive species can be checked by adopting suitable conservation measures. Local people can be educ','-','A. Chandra, A.K. Dhakad, P.K. Verma, J. Saxena and A.K. Raut (2019). Assessment of impact of Eupatorium adenophorum Spren. on the plant diversity in Tanakpur Range, Champawat Forest Division, Uttarakhand. Biological Forum â€“ An International Journal, 11('),(1343,'57','Female Infertility Investigation and Statistics','Nutan Verma, Vivek Raich and Sharad Gangele','Female Infertility Investigation and Statistics by Nutan Verma Vivek Raich and Sharad Gangele.pdf','',1,'','','','',''),(1344,'54','Isolation and Virulent Evaluation of Ralstonia solanacearum cause\r\nthe Bacterial Wilt in Chrysanthemum (Chrysanthemum Sp.) from\r\nMekong Delta and Lam Dong Province','Huynh Ngoc Tam, LeUyen Thanh, Trinh Quang Phap, Tran Thanh Tung, Luu Thai Danh and Nguyen Thi Thu Nga','Isolation and Virulent Evaluation of Ralstonia solanacearum cause the Bacterial Wilt in Chrysanthemum (Chrysanthemum Sp.) from Mekong Delta and Lam Dong Province TRINH QUANG PHAP.pdf','',1,'Six isolates of Ralstonia solanacearum causing the bacterial wilt in chrysanthemum (Chrysanthemum sp.) from Lam Dong province and Mekong Delta were isolated and evaluated for infecting to their host. From this result, the isolate of high virulence is selected to serve for identification and further more for research of the disease prevention in the future. This experiment was investigated at the Plant Pathology Laboratory of the Plant Protection Department, College of Agriculture and Applied Biology, Can Tho University from October 2015 to February 2017. The six isolates of R. solanacearum from Ben Tre, Can Tho, Tien Giang, An Giang, Dong Thap, and Lam Dong provinces were used for testing on chrysanthemum that includes BT-176, CT-30, TG-189, AG-57, ÄT-9, LÄ-34. These colonies of those isolates on King\'s B medium showed with cream white, convex, smooth, and irregular or round, and on triphenyltetrazolium chloride (TZC) medium with pink in the center and fluidal white in the margin. Th','Ralstonia solanacearum, chrysanthemum, bacterial wilt, isolation, virulence, incidence, severity','Results of isolation from naturally infected plants of six different provinces showing bacterial wilt revealed that all isolates showed typical morphological growth of R. solanacearumon TZC medium where; colonies were fluidal white with red center. \r\nTheir colonies developed on Kingâ€™s B medium were cream white, convex, smooth, irregular or round. The obtained results are in agreement with those obtained by Kelman (1954). \r\nThis study is also confirmed that bacterial wilt of chrysanthemum was caused by R. solanacearum based on virulence, and DNA sequence analyses. All six isolates of R. solanacearumshowed virulence against chrysanthemum plants that displayed the different value in bacterial wilt incidence and severity at from 6 to 22 days DAI. In which, isolate ÄT-9 was the highest one among the two tests of R. solanacearumafter 22 DAI. Kochâ€™s postulate showed that all six isolates of R. solanacearum were pathogenic on chrysanthemum and that R. solanacearumwere consistently reisola','-','Tam, Huynh Ngá»c, Thanh, LeUyen, Phap, Trinh Quang, Tung, Tran Thanh, Danh, Luu Thai and Nga, Nguyen Thi Thu (2019). Isolation and Virulent Evaluation of Ralstonia solanacearum cause the Bacterial Wilt in Chrysanthemum (Chrysanthemum Sp.) from Mekong Del'),(1345,'54','Redescription of Male Genitalia of Six Species of Genus Orthetrum\r\nNewman (Anisoptera: Libellulidae) from North West India','Jagbir Singh Kirti, Simarjit Kaur and Archana Singh','Redescription of Male Genitalia of Six Species of Genus Orthetrum Newman (Anisoptera Libellulidae) from North West India JAGBIR SINGH KIRTI.pdf','',1,'The structure of the male secondary apparatus of six species belonging to genus Orthetrum Newman i.e. O. brunneum brunneum (Fonscolombe), O. glaucum (Brauer), O. japonicum internum Maclachan, O. pruinosum neglectum (Rambur), O. taeniolatum (Schneider) and O. triangulare triangulare (Selys) have been redescribed and illustrated in detail based on the specimens from India. The importance of various morphological attributes like anterior lamina, hamule, vesicular spermalis and penis of male secondary apparatus have been highlighted based on this study. ','Morphology, male genitalia, Orthetrum, Libellulidae','Kiany and Minaei (2009) while studying libellulid dragonflies from Fars Province, Italy given an account on five species of genus Orthetrum Newman including O. brunneum (Fonscolombei, 1837)and O. taeniolatum Schneider. The specimens studied by us showed same characters with few difference like in shape of genital lobes i.e. triangular in case of taeniolatum observed instead of rectangular. Later on, Degabriele (2013) also described six species of this genus from Maltese Island highlighting the variation in lamina and hamule of male genitalia indifferent species.\r\nThe detailed examination of secondary male genitalic attributes of six species of genus Orthetrum Newman shows that genitalic attributes like lamina, hamules, vesicular spermalis and penis present a great deal of variation and are highly species specific. The structure of lamina and its setae are of quite good taxonomic significance and can be used to distinguish different species. Its arrangement generally varies from middors','-','Kirti, Jagbir Singh, Kaur, Simarjit and Singh, Archana (2019). Redescription of male genitalia of six species of genus Orthetrum Newman (Anisoptera: Libellulidae) from North West India. Biological Forum â€“ An International Journal, 11(1): 107-116.'),(1346,'54','Effect of Agricultural Land-use on Carbon Sequestration in Soils','Shazia Ramzan, Insha Zahoor, Pervez Ahmad , Ifra Ashraf, Mushtaq Ahmad Wani and Rehana Rasool','Effect of Agricultural Land-use on Carbon Sequestration in Soils SHAZIA RAMZAN.pdf','',1,'Carbon sequestration on agricultural lands is possible through a range of soil management strategies and could be substantial with widespread implementation. Sequestration of historic carbon emissions is now essential as mitigation alone is unlikely to stabilize our atmosphere. Land-use change, particularly the conversion of natural forest to agriculture to sustain the growing global population, has severe environmental impacts, including emission of greenhouse gases, diminished biodiversity, and altered soil functions. Contribution of GHGs to global warming is to an extent of 20% due to agricultural activities and 14% due to in land use changes and attendant deforestation. There are numerous management strategies for drawing carbon out of the atmosphere and holding it in the soil. These strategies vary in effectiveness across different climates, soil types, and geographies. There are still debates about the durability of sequestration in soil and about the precise conditions that maxi','Carbon sequestration; Land use; soil organic carbon','Since the industrial revolution, CO2 concentrations in the atmosphere have increased from 290 parts per million (ppm) by volume to greater than 400 ppm and continue to rise and may exceed 500 ppm by 2050 (IPCC, 2001). Currently, human activity is directly or indirectly responsible for the release of six to seven billion metric tons of carbon annually. Adoption of proper and planned measures can help in its mitigation. With proper land-use and management practices, agricultural soils can sequester a good amount of CO2 as SOC. Important land uses and practices with the potential to sequester SOC include conversion of cropland to pastoral and forest lands, conventional tillage to conservation and no tillage, no manure use to regular addition of manure, and to soil specific fertilization rate. Addition of fertilizers on a regular basis for many years often leads to increase in SOC content. Addition of N fertilizer increased the SOC level by increasing net primary productivity and residue i','-','Ramzan, Shazia, Zahoor, Insha, Ahmad, Pervez, Ashraf, Ifra, Wani, Mushtaq Ahmad and Rasool Rehana (2019). Effect of Agricultural Land-use on Carbon Sequestration in Soils. Biological Forum â€“ An International Journal, 11(1): 117-125.'),(1347,'54','Further Studies on Female Genitalia of Three Species of genus\r\nTrithemis Brauer from North-West India','Jagbir Singh Kirti, Simarjit Kaur and Archana Singh','Further Studies on Female Genitalia of Three Species of genus Trithemis Brauer from North-West India SIMARJIT KAUR.pdf','',1,'Taxonomic studies have been conducted on the species of genus Trithemis Brauer to study their female genitalia. The diagnosis of these species has been updated by incorporating female genitalic attributes.','Trithemis, female genitalia, subgenital plate.','Taxonomic studies have been conducted on the species of genus Trithemis Brauer to study their female genitalia. The diagnosis of these species has been updated by incorporating female genitalic attributes.','-','Kirti, Jagbir Singh, Kaur, Simarjit and Singh, Archana (2019). Further Studies on Female Genitalia of Three Species of genus Trithemis Brauer from North-West India. Biological Forum â€“An International Journal, 11(1): 126-130'),(1348,'54','Abiotic Stress Detection using Hyperspectral Remote Sensing','Jonali Goswami, K.K. Sarma, Ranjan Das and P.L.N. Raju','Abiotic Stress Detection using Hyperspectral Remote Sensing JONALI GOSWAMI.pdf','',1,'Abiotic stresses are one of the major factors affecting crop production in many parts of the India. The need of the hour is to minimize the yield losses due to these abiotic stresses. Early detection can help to reduce the impact of stresses on crop growth and yield. The recent developments in hyperspectral remote sensing hold a major key in early detection of abiotic stress over a larger area with less involvement of cost, time and labour. The works relevant to abiotic stress characterization particularly nitrogen stress based on plant spectral reflectance are dealt in this paper. It was observed from the spectral data analysis that the stress indicating parameter such as Leaf area index, chlorophyll, photosynthesis can be precisely estimated using proximal hyperspectral remote sensing approach. The research work done also elucidates that hyperspectral techniques can lead to the development of real-time management of nutrient stress, thereby reducing the yield losses due these stress','Abiotic stress, Nitrogen, Hyperspectral Remote Sensing, Speroradiomcteter','Recent advances in Hyperspectral remote sensing demonstrate great utility for a variety of crop stress detection. However, any stresses interfere with photosynthesis and physical structure of the plants and affect absorption of light energy and reflectance spectrum of plants, hyperspectral remote sensing was effectively used in identifying different stresses. However, as we know, remote sensing is not a standalone system, it has to be validated through proper ground truth and integrated with other collateral information for facilitating decision support. ','-','Goswami, Jonali; Sarma, K.K.; Das, Ranjan and Raju, P.L.N. (2019). Abiotic Stress Detection using Hyperspectral Remote Sensing. Biological Forum â€“ An International Journal, 11(1): 131-136.'),(1349,'57','Development of Colloidal Semiconductor Nanocrystals: Synthesis, Properties and their Outlook for Light Emitting Diodes (LEDs)','Manpreet Kaur, Paviter Singh, Gurpreet Kaur, Manjot Kaur, Jeewan Sharma, Manjeet Kumar, Manoj Sharma and Akshay Kumar','Development of Colloidal Semiconductor Nanocrystals Synthesis, Properties and their Outlook for Light Emitting Diodes (LEDs) DR. AKSHAY KUMAR.pdf','',1,'','','','',''),(1350,'54','Ethnomedicinal Remedy for Gastrointestinal Disorders in Rural and\r\nRemote areas of Jammu and Kashmir: A Review','Kanchan Bhardwaj, Bharat Bhushan, Ravinder Kumar, Shivani Guleria and Harsh Kumar','Ethnomedicinal Remedy for Gastrointestinal Disorders in Rural and Remote areas of Jammu and Kashmir A Review HARSH KUMAR.pdf','',1,'Jammu and Kashmir has a rich heritage of medicinal plants. Inspite of this, gastrointestinal diseases especially diarrhoea is highly prevalent in Jammu and Kashmir with a rate of 32.8%, whereas the overall prevalence rate in India is 19.2%. Total 76 plant families are used for the treatment of gastrointestinal ailments. Asteraceae family plants are the main contributor followed by Lamiaceae, Fabaceae, and Brassicaceae. The current review aimed to highlight the available ethnomedicinal plants in Jammu and Kashmir for the treatment of the gastrointestinal disorders. For this study, keywords like medicinal plants, diarrhoea, gastrointestinal disease, Jammu and Kashmir, and Ethnomedicinal plants were used for literature search in PubMed, Google Scholar, EBSCOhost databases. Therefore, various Government and Non-Government Organisations (NGOs) have introduced different preventive measure and policies for the conservation of ethnomedicinal plants species. Now, there is need of collaboration ','Ethnomedicinal plants, Gastrointestinal disorders, Conservation, Jammu and Kashmir.','Even though the Jammu and Kashmir state has blossomed with different therapeutic plants, however, the proper knowledge is limited to local residents and nomadic only. Presently modern generations are not well-versed with knowledge of indigenous plant collections. In spite of the presence of ethnomedicinal plant species, people of J&K suffering from acute diarrhoeal and gastroenteritis complications. Therefore, Various Government and Non-Government Organisations (NGOs) have introduced different preventive measure and policies for the conservation of ethnomedicinal plants species. Now, there is need of collaboration of research communities and government agencies to create awareness among local people and attract pharmaceutical industries to use the medicinal plants for therapeutic purpose at a commercial level. ','-','Bhardwaj, Kanchan; Bhushan, Bharat; Kumar, Ravinder; Guleria, Shivani and Kumar, Harsh (2019). Ethnomedicinal Remedy for Gastrointestinal Disorders in Rural and Remote areas of Jammu and Kashmir: A Review. Biological Forum â€“ An International Journal, 1'),(1351,'54','Isolation and Evaluation of Antimicrobial Activity of Endophytic\r\nActinobacteria from horsetail Plant (Equisetum diffusum D. Don)\r\nagainst Bacterial Disease in Aquatic Animals','Nguyen Van Thanh, Trinh Thi Trang and Nguyen Thanh Hai','Isolation and Evaluation of Antimicrobial Activity of Endophytic Actinobacteria from horsetail Plant Equisetum diffusum D Don against Bacterial Disease in Aquatic Animals NGUYEN THANH HAI.pdf','',1,'Aquaculture is rapidly expanding in area andin intensity, however, there are serious problems caused by bacterial infection. The use of antibiotics is not sufficient to mitigate the outbreaks due to increase in antibiotic resistance. Therefore, to overcome the challenges of antibiotic resistance, antimicrobial compounds with a new mechanistic approach should be urgently sought. The aim of this study is to isolate and evaluate antimicrobial activity of endophytic actinobacteria from Horsetail plant (May Chang, Equisetum diffusum D. Don) against two pathogenic bacterial species Aeromonas hydrophila GL14, A. veronii HY15 causing severe disease on common carp and catfish. The results showed that 9/32 (28.2%) endophytic actinobacteria isolates could inhibit at least one target pathogenic bacteria. Three isolates TB13, TB21 and TB17 showed the highest antibacterial response with minimium inhibitory concentration (MIC) ranging from 93.3 to 300 Âµl/mL. Amongst these, the lowest value is for TB','May Chang, actinobacteria, Aeromonas, common carp, catfish','. There were 8 out of total 26 EA strains in Horsetail plant exhibiting antimicrobial effect on the two pathogenic bacteria A. hydrophila GL14, A. Veronii HY15 which cause diseases in common carp and catfish. Three EA strains TB21, TB13 and TB17 showed wide inhibitory zones ranging from 26.2 to 17.5 mm.\r\n2. MICs of 3 strains TB21, TB13 and TB17 displayed no significant difference in a range of 102.4 to 267.3 Âµl/mL against both tested bacteria.\r\n3. The combination of TB13 andTB17 showed synergistic effect against two tested bacteria to enhance antimicrobial activity at least 4 times compared with single strain. This result could be of potential and promising application for sustainable therapy in aquaculture.\r\n','-','Thanh, Nguyen Van, Trang, Trinh Thi and Hai, Nguyen Thanh (2019). Isolation and Evaluation of Antimicrobial Activity of Endophytic Actinobacteria from horsetail Plant (Equisetum diffusum D. Don) against Bacterial Disease in Aquatic Animals. Biological For'),(1352,'54','Ethnobotanical Wisdom among the Kiratas and Hindu-Gujjar Tribes in\r\nDharampur Region of Mandi District, Himachal Pradesh, (India)','Gulshan Kumar and Sampy Duggal','Ethnobotanical Wisdom among the Kiratas and Hindu-Gujjar Tribes in Dharampur Region of Mandi District Himachal Pradesh India GULSHAN KUMAR.pdf','',1,'The present paper deals with the documentation of field observations on traditional use of medicinal and aromatic plants by the inhabitants of area of Dharampur region of Mandi district of Himachal Pradesh in North-Western Himalaya. These hills range are inhabited by different ethnic groups including two main tribes, Kiratas and Hindu-gujjars. These inhabitants have been dependent directly on the plant resources for food, fuel, fiber, timber, household articles and medicines to a great extent for ages. A large number of plants of local flora are used to cure various ailments of human and livestock. First hand information about 88 plants from Dharampur region belonging to 42 families were recorded by conducting extensive field surveys during February to September, 2018. The information is represented in a tabulated form as scientific names of plants followed by family in alphabetic order and collected as Herb, Shrub and Tree. Information on vernacular names of plants, parts used and dis','Ethnobotanical; Kiratas; Hindu-Gujjars; Traditional usage; Dharampur','The Kiratas and Hindu-Gujjar of Dharampur region constitute an important segment of the population in the region who have in-depth knowledge of diverse plant. The infinite ethnobotanical knowledge of this tribe can also be related to their greater dependency on the wild plant resources for their sustenance because of poor living standards, illiteracy, and poverty.\r\nThe present study revealed the in-depth ethnobotanical knowledge of the tribes. The local communities have accumulated this immense knowledge through experimentation and modifications since centuries. Knowledge and use of medicinal plants to cure various ailments is part of their life and culture that requires preservation of this indigenous knowledge. In the present scenario, it forms an essential component of sustainable development. But this traditional knowledge which is transferred from one generation to another through the words of mouth is eroding exigently. Thus, there is an urgent need for the documentation of this ','-','Kumar, Gulshan and Duggal, Sampy (2019). Ethnobotanical Wisdom among the Kiratas and Hindu-Gujjar Tribes in Dharampur Region of Mandi District, Himachal Pradesh, (India). Biological Forum â€“ An International Journal, 11(1): 156-171.'),(1353,'57','In Vitro Regeneration of Clitoria ternatea (L.) from Nodal Explant','Awadhesh Kumar Mishra, Jayanti Singh and Kavindra Nath Tiwari','In Vitro Regeneration of Clitoria ternatea L from Nodal Explant DR KN TIWARI.pdf','',1,'','','','',''),(1354,'57','Load Management Techniques and Pricing Model for Demand Side\r\n\r\nManagement â€“ A Review','Kishor C. Muley and Sandeep Bhongade','Load Management Techniques and Pricing Model for Demand Side KISHOR C.pdf','',1,'','','','',''),(1355,'54','Studies on Edales pandava Horsfield of family Lycanidae\r\n(Lepidoptera) infesting on plants of family Cycadaceae from Punjab,India','P.C. Pathania, K.S. Suri and Parminder Singh','Studies on Edales pandava Horsfield of family Lycanidae Lepidoptera infesting on plants of family Cycadaceae from Punjab India P C PATHANIA.pdf','',1,'A butterfly species i.e., Edales pandava Horsfield belonging to the family Lycanidae infesting on plants of family Cycadaceae from different district/localilies of Punjab have been reported. The details on the biological studies, sexual dimorphism, and other aspects are also provided.','Edales pandava Horsfield, Lepidoptera, infesting on plants, Punjab','A butterfly species i.e., Edales pandava Horsfield belonging to the family Lycanidae infesting on plants of family Cycadaceae from different district/localilies of Punjab have been reported. The details on the biological studies, sexual dimorphism, and other aspects are also provided.','-','Pathania, P.C.; Suri, K.S. and Singh, Parminder (2019). Studies on Edales pandava Horsfield of family Lycanidae (Lepidoptera) infesting on plants of family Cycadaceae from Punjab, India. Biological Forum â€“ An International Journal, 11(1): 172-175.'),(1356,'56','In silico prediction of low molecular weight ricin chain A ribosome inactivating protein based on its interaction with 28S rRNA','Ashraf Gholizadeh','Ashraf-Gholizadeh-march-2019.pdf','',1,'','','','',''),(1357,'54','The Effect of Phalaris minor (Canary grass) Densities and Seed Rates of Wheat on Yield and Yield Components of Wheat (Triticum aestivum)','Irandokht Mansoori','Irandokht_Mansoori.pdf','',1,' In order to study the effect of canary grass densities and seed rates on yield and yield components of wheat, field trials were conducted at Sari Agricultural Sciences and Natural Resources University of Iran during the crop season of (2015-2016). The experiment was laid out in randomize complete block (RCB) design with split plot arrangement. Four seed rates viz.120, 140, 160 and180 kg ha-1 of wheat was assigned to main plots, while canary grass densities 0, 5, 10, 15, 20, 25 and 30 seed m-2 was kept into sub-plots. Data were recorded on number of spikes m-2, spike length (cm), grains spike-1, 1000 grain weight (g), grain yield (kg ha-1) and harvest index (%) of wheat and tillers plant-1 and dry weight (gm-2) of P. minor. Results showed that, canary grass densities and wheat seed rates had significant effect on the above mentioned traits. Statistical analysis of the data showed that most of the parameters were statistically affected by canary grass densities and wheat seed rates whil','Density, Wheat, Canary grass, Yield components, Grain yield','In order to study the effect of canary grass densities and seed rates on yield and yield components of wheat, field trials were conducted at Sari Agricultural Sciences and Natural Resources University of Iran during the crop season of (2015-2016). The experiment was laid out in randomize complete block (RCB) design with split plot arrangement. Four seed rates viz.120, 140, 160 and180 kg ha-1 of wheat was assigned to main plots, while canary grass densities 0, 5, 10, 15, 20, 25 and 30 seed m-2 was kept into sub-plots. Data were recorded on number of spikes m-2, spike length (cm), grains spike-1, 1000 grain weight (g), grain yield (kg ha-1) and harvest index (%) of wheat and tillers plant-1 and dry weight (gm-2) of P. minor. Results showed that, canary grass densities and wheat seed rates had significant effect on the above mentioned traits. Statistical analysis of the data showed that most of the parameters were statistically affected by canary grass densities and wheat seed rates while','-','Mansoori I. (2019). The Effect of Phalaris minor (Canary grass) Densities and Seed Rates of Wheat on Yield and Yield Components of Wheat (Triticum aestivum). Biological Forum â€“ An International Journal, 11(1): 176-182.'),(1358,'54','Description of a new species of genus Fippataleyrodes Sundararaj & David, 1992 (Hemiptera: Aleyrodidae) from Karnataka, India with key to known species','T.G. Revathi, S. John William and R. Sundararaj','R_Sundararaj.pdf','',1,'The whitefly genus Fippataleyrodes Sundararaj & David, 1992, is represented so far by seven species from India. One new species Fippataleyrodes divyae sp. nov. breeding on an unidentified plant from Karnataka state of India is described and illustrated in this paper. A key to the species of the genus Fippataleyrodes is given','Fippataleyrodes divyae, bituberculata, indicus, litseae, Hemiptera, Aleyrodidae','The whitefly genus Fippataleyrodes Sundararaj & David, 1992, is represented so far by seven species from India. One new species Fippataleyrodes divyae sp. nov. breeding on an unidentified plant from Karnataka state of India is described and illustrated in this paper. A key to the species of the genus Fippataleyrodes is given','-','Revathi, T.G., William S. John and Sundararaj R. (2019). Description of a new species of genus Fippataleyrodes Sundararaj & David, 1992 (Hemiptera: Aleyrodidae) from Karnataka, India with key to known species. Biological Forum â€“ An International Journal'),(1360,'55','Ethnomedicinal Diversity of Aromatic Plants in Foot Hill Regions of\r\nHimachal Pradesh, India','Gulshan Kumar and Sampy Duggal','Ethnomedicinal Diversity of Aromatic Plants in Foot Hill Regions of Himachal Pradesh- India SAMPY DUGGAL.pdf','',1,'','','','',''),(1361,'58','Preparation of local food-recipes of Hamirpur District of Himachal Pradesh, India','Gulshan Kumar and Sampy Duggal','Preparation of local food-recipes of Hamirpur District of Himachal Pradesh- India SAMPY DUGGAL .pdf','',1,'','','','',''),(1362,'58','A Micro level Survey on the Role of Women in Climate Resilient Agriculture and Their\r\nEconomic Status under Rain-fed District of Himachal Pradesh, INDIA','Gulshan Kumar and Sampy Duggal','A Micro level Survey on the Role of Women in Climate Resilient Agriculture and Their Economic Status under Rain-fed District of Himachal Pradesh- INDIA GULSAN KUMAR - SAMPY DUGGAL.pdf','',1,'','','','',''),(1363,'4','A Review Modeling and Control Strategies for Renewable Based','Prof. P.K. Sharma','25 PK SHARMA.pdf','',1,'','','','',''),(1364,'56','Report on the bioaccumulation of heavy metals by foliose lichen (Pyxine cocoes) from air polluted area near Nagaon Paper Mill in Marigaon, Assam, North-East India','Pramod Kumar Singh, P. Bujarbarua, K. P. Singh, P.K. Tandon','Report on the bioaccumulation of heavy metals by foliose lichen Pyxine cocoes from air polluted area near Nagaon Paper Mill in Marigaon, Assam North-East India.pdf','',1,'','','','',''),(1365,'54','An Ethno-botanical Survey of Dadra and Nagar-Haveli (UT), India for\r\nMedicinal Plants in use by Traditional Healers','Vijaykumar P. Patil and Mayuri C. Rathod','An Ethno-botanical Survey of Dadra and Nagar-Haveli India for Medicinal Plants in use by Traditional Healers VIJAYKUMAR P PATIL.pdf','',1,'Despite some studies on various uses of plants in forest area of Dadra and Nagar-Haveli, the traditional uses of large number of plants still awaits proper documentation. For the Dadra and Nagar-haveli documentation of ethno-botanical knowledge is limited to a few medicinal plants and folk medicinal uses of medicinal plants are not well-known outside the Dadra and Nagar-haveli forest area. An extensive ethno-medicinal investigation at the village level in different areas and among different tribes of Dadra and Nagar-haveli forest was carried out and comprehensive review of the plants used in the folk medicine in Dadra and Nagar-haveli is presented in this work. Ethno-botanical Surveys were made several times over a couple of years in growing seasons. Plants were identified using Established Flora. Details were sought from Traditional healers to generate baseline data. 25 Plant species belonging to Solanaceae, Verbenaceae, Malvaceae, Papaveraceae Liliaceae, Fabaceae, Asclepediaceae, Api','Ethno-botanical Survey, Dadra and Nagar-Haveli (UT), Medicinal Plants, Traditional Healers','Despite some studies on various uses of plants in forest area of Dadra and Nagar-Haveli, the traditional uses of large number of plants still awaits proper documentation. For the Dadra and Nagar-haveli documentation of ethno-botanical knowledge is limited to a few medicinal plants and folk medicinal uses of medicinal plants are not well-known outside the Dadra and Nagar-haveli forest area. An extensive ethno-medicinal investigation at the village level in different areas and among different tribes of Dadra and Nagar-haveli forest was carried out and comprehensive review of the plants used in the folk medicine in Dadra and Nagar-haveli is presented in this work. Ethno-botanical Surveys were made several times over a couple of years in growing seasons. Plants were identified using Established Flora. Details were sought from Traditional healers to generate baseline data. 25 Plant species belonging to Solanaceae, Verbenaceae, Malvaceae, Papaveraceae Liliaceae, Fabaceae, Asclepediaceae, Api','-','Patil, Vijaykumar P. and Rathod, Mayuri C. (2019). An Ethno-botanical Survey of Dadra and Nagar-Haveli (UT), India for Medicinal Plants in use by Traditional Healers. Biological Forum â€“ An International Journal, 11(1): 187-193.'),(1366,'54','Enhancement of Reef Diversity using Plastic Waste: A Novel way to\r\nReduce Plastic Pollution','CH. Ramesh*, S. Koushik, T. Shunmugaraj and M.V. Ramana Murthy','Enhancement of Reef Diversity using Plastic Waste A Novel way to Reduce Plastic Pollution CH RAMESH.pdf','',1,'An increasing plastic debris accumulation around the globe and across the coastline has become a life threatening concern to humans and considerably to marine life. Several studies have reported the pervasive occurrence and distribution of plastic waste in several marine animals. Therefore, mitigation and reduction of plastic waste originated from land and marine sources have become challenging issues in the current research. In this study, we propose an innovative way to mitigate plastic by using plastic debris as an enhancer of the marine life. Underwater investigations revealed that various plastic forms supported the development of diverse marine algae, particularly the reef building crustose coralline algae and other invertebrates. This proposed method can be implemented for reducing the plastic debris rapidly from different environments.','Plastic debris, plastic modules, crustose coralline algae, invertebrates, waste management.','Indeed many educators and also the increasing population are not aware about the actual impact of plastics on marine environment. The use and disposal of plastics has increased enormously in different countries. Therefore, awareness via media (movies), legislations (such as ocean dumping act 1972) and ban on plastics are needs to be implemented strictly to completely stop the plastic pollution in land and water. Also, combing shorelines and coastal waters with plastic size specific grabbing combs or with various cleaning activities are recommended for plastic free Blue Ocean','-',' Ramesh, CH., Koushik, S., Shunmugaraj, T. and Ramana Murthy, M.V. (2019). Enhancement of Reef Diversity using Plastic Waste: A Novel way to Reduce Plastic Pollution. Biological Forum â€“ An International Journal, 11(1): 194-198.'),(1367,'54','Mobile Health Applications and Android Toolkit for Alzheimer\r\nPatients, Caregivers and Doctors','Gaurav Gupta, Ankit Gupta, Parimita Barura and Varun Jaiswal','Mobile Health Applications and Android Toolkit for Alzheimer Patients Caregivers and Doctors DR VARUN JAISWAL.pdf','',1,'Alzheimer, a common form of dementia causes deterioration of cognitive abilities of an individual which results in difficulty in carrying out their routine activities. Research suggests that there is no cure for this deadly disease. However, the progression of the disease can be slowed down by improving the patientâ€™s quality of life, providing a solution for enhancing the cognitive abilities of the patient. One of the possible solution is to motivate the use of Smartphone by the patient. Smartphones play a crucial role for the family members of the Alzheimer patients as it helps the patients in carrying out their routine activities by providing time to time notifications about them. Furthermore, the smartphone also helps in assisting the caregiver to take proper care of the patient, such as retrieving the GPS locations of the patient, using Geotagging. Photographs can be used as a source of the medium in helping patients remember their family members. They are susceptible to music; t','Alzheimer, Android Mobile Applications, GPS, Computer Assisted Technology','Smartphones or Touch iPods is one of the propitious assistive technology benefitting both classes of individuals viz. the caregivers as well as the Alzheimer patients. Research suggests that playing the favorite music tunes helps in stimulating the brain of the patient while the photos help the caregivers and family for handling the situation of sudden memory loss by the patient. Hence there is a need to develop mobile applications which can benefit both or any of the two. Mobile Applications focusing on treatment or diagnosis of disorders needs to have certain set features which can help either help the patient or the caregivers. These features were collected on the basis of discussion by medical experts and the mobile applications used for this study.Only 5 applications were found suitable based on the proposed set of features. Although the frequency of features in these applications ranges from 4 to 9, few features were lacking in every application. Those features are doctors dairy,','-','Gupta, Gaurav, Gupta, Ankit, Barura, Parimita and Jaiswal, Varun (2019). Mobile Health Applications and Android Toolkit for Alzheimer Patients, Caregivers and Doctors. Biological Forum â€“ An International Journal, 11(1): 199-205.'),(1369,'54','Diagnosis of some Common Uropathogens from Patients with Urinary\r\nTract Infection Symptom in Vietnam by PCR Method','Trong Khoa Dao, Quang Trung Dam,Tuyet Mai Vuong, Thi Thu Hong Le, Nam Hai Truong, and Thi Huyen Do*','Diagnosis of some Common Uropathogens from Patients with Urinary Tract Infection Symptom in Vietnam by PCR Method TRONG KHOA DAO.pdf','',1,'Urinary tract infections (UTIs) are frequent disease in Vietnam. Timely, sensitive and accurate identification of uropathogens is great value for UTI management. In this study, 66 urine specimens were collected from patients with UTI symptoms in Saint Paul Hospital, Vietnam. By PCR, specific genes of E. coli, E. faecalis, P. aeruginosa, P. mirabilis, K. pneumoniae were amplified from 46 samples (71.2%) and 71.7% were monopathogens. The dominant uropathogens were E. coli (36.4%), E. faecalis (34.8%), P. aeruginosa (18.2%). E. coli was important agent in multi-bacterial infection. Conventional culture detected bacteria in 30.3% samples but had limitation in the detection of Enterococcus, P. aeruginosa. Moreover, of the 35 negative cultured-samples, we also found the bacteria in 25 samples. This finding suggests that PCR is a good method for E. feacalis, P. aeruginosa detection and is the fast, sensitive method for supplementing conventional urine culture to identify uropathogens.','E. coli, E. faecalis, K. pneumoniae, PCR, S. saprophyticus, P. aeruginosa, P. mirabilis, uropathogens.','These findings suggest that PCR method is powerful for detection of E. feacalis, P. aeruginosa than culturing method, and almost negative-cultured samples from patients with typical urinary complaints still have an infection. PCR is the fast, sensitive and accurate method maybe supplementing urine culture for identifications of uropathogens.','-','Dao, Trong Khoa, Dam, Quang Trung, Vuong, Tuyet Mai, Le, Thi Thu Hong, Truong, Nam Hai and Do, Thi Huyen (2019). Diagnosis of Some Common Uropathogens from Patients with Urinary Tract Infection Symptom in Vietnam by PCR Method. Biological Forum â€“ An Int'),(1370,'56','Some Angiosperms as new record for Uttar Pradesh, India','K.K. Khanna, A.N. Shukla','Some Angiosperms as new record for Uttar Pradesh India.pdf','',1,'','','','',''),(1371,'54','Antibacterial and Antifungal Activity of Stevia rebaudiana\r\n(Asteraceae) Leaf Extract in vitro Condition','M. Muradashvili*, N. Jabnidze, L. Koiava, R. Dumbadze, K. Memarne, L. Gorgiladze, G. Meparishvili, A. Kalandia and R. Davitadze','Antibacterial and Antifungal Activity of Stevia rebaudiana (Asteraceae) Leaf Extract in vitro Condition M MURADASHVILI.pdf','',1,'In the present communication we studied antimicrobial activity of Stevia plant extract under in vitro condition against plant phytopathogens, which is stored in the culture collection of the Institute of Phytopathology and Biodiversity. The three different extracts of leaves namely, chloroform, acetone and absolute ethyl alcohol were tested against Ralstonia solanacearum, Pseudomonas syringae pv. actinidiae (PSA), Erwinia amylovora bacteria strains and to the fungal plant pathogens: Alternaria alternata, Colletetrichum gloeosporioides and Fusarium moniliforma. The largest zone of inhibition for R. solanacearum KhPe90 strain was measured 15mm with chloroform extract and 18mm by the ethyl alcohol extract, but 5mm has shown acetone. The maximum inhibition zone for chloroform extract against PSA strains were 18mm and 20 mm were observed for ethyl alcohol extract, while for acetone extract has shown 8mm. For test strains of E. amylovora diameter of lyses area was 12mm with action of chloro','Stevia extract; Antimicrobial activity; plant pathogen.','In the present communication we studied antimicrobial activity of Stevia plant extract under in vitro condition against plant phytopathogens, which is stored in the culture collection of the Institute of Phytopathology and Biodiversity. The three different extracts of leaves namely, chloroform, acetone and absolute ethyl alcohol were tested against Ralstonia solanacearum, Pseudomonas syringae pv. actinidiae (PSA), Erwinia amylovora bacteria strains and to the fungal plant pathogens: Alternaria alternata, Colletetrichum gloeosporioides and Fusarium moniliforma. The largest zone of inhibition for R. solanacearum KhPe90 strain was measured 15mm with chloroform extract and 18mm by the ethyl alcohol extract, but 5mm has shown acetone. The maximum inhibition zone for chloroform extract against PSA strains were 18mm and 20 mm were observed for ethyl alcohol extract, while for acetone extract has shown 8mm. For test strains of E. amylovora diameter of lyses area was 12mm with action of chloro','-','Muradashvili, M., Jabnidze, N., Koiava, L., Dumbadze, R., Memarne, K., Gorgiladze, L., Meparishvili, G., Kalandia, A. and Davitadze, R. (2019). Antibacterial and Antifungal Activity of Stevia rebaudiana (Asteraceae) Leaf Extract in vitro Condition. Bi'),(1372,'54','Design, Synthesis and Evaluation of Substituted 5-(2- methoxybenzylidene)-rhodanine Ester Analogs as Aldose Reductase\r\nInhibitors','Jyoti Pandey, Ritu Gilhotra and Arun K. Gupta','Design, Synthesis and Evaluation of Substituted 5(2methoxybenzylidene)-rhodanine Ester Analogs as Aldose Reductase Inhibitors JYOTI PANDEY.pdf','',1,'Aldose reductase (ALR) enzyme plays a significant role in conversion of excess amount of glucose into sorbitol in diabetic condition, inhibitors of which decrease the secondary complication of diabetes mellitus. The AR active site can adapts itself to bind firmly to special inhibitors; this happens together upon binding to the inhibitorâ€™s hydrophobic, hydrophilic heads, and at the specificity pockets of AR, and capable to alter their nature through special conformational changes of the identical residues.\r\nNewer (E)-2-(5-(4-(benzoyloxy)-2-methoxybenzylidene)-4-oxo-2-thioxothiazolidin-3-yl) acetic acid and (E)-3-methoxy-4-((4-oxo-2-thioxothiazolidin-5-ylidene) methyl)phenyl benzoate derivatives were applied for molecular docking studies, synthesized, and these compound were evaluated for their ARI and antidiabetic activity. \r\nA docking study was also applied to envisage the interactions between the aldose reductase and designed series of compounds. The results of this present study mi','Aldose Reductase Inhibitors, Docking, Diabetes, Substituted 5-(2-methoxybenzylidene)-rhodanine Ester Analogs.','Rhodanine and N-acetic acid rhodanine derivatives with various substitutions on benzylidene moiety were studied. A molecular docking study was performed using MVD to envisage the interactions between the aldose reductase active site and designed rhodanine series of compounds. Synthesized compound shows ARI activity in the range of 0.712 to 20.51 ÂµM. The N-acetic acid analogs are more potent as compare to N-unsubstituted rhodanine analogs. In terminal phenyl ring at para position no substitution or fluoro substitution is favour for the activity while compound with bromo substitution on terminal phenyl ring shows minimum inhibition as compared to other analogs. The 3,4-dimethoxy substituted derivative proved to be the most active among these substituted compounds. In vivo study of N-acetic acid rhodanine derivatives were carried out by alloxan induced tail tipping method. Synthesized compound shows decrease in blood glucose level in the range of 28.80-10.64% after 3hrs while 39.28-18.2','-','Pandey, Jyoti, Gilhotra, Ritu and Gupta, Arun K. (2019). Design, Synthesis and Evaluation of Substituted 5-(2-methoxybenzylidene)-rhodanine Ester Analogs as Aldose Reductase Inhibitors. Biological Forum â€“ An International Journal, 11(1): 217-221.'),(1373,'53','Cross Spectral Face Recognition using Handcrafted and Deep\r\nFeatures ','Akshaya Kumar Sharma and Amit Shrivastava','Cross Spectral Face Recognition using Handcrafted and Deep Features AKSHAYA KUMAR SHARMA.pdf','',1,'','','','',''),(1374,'57','A Survey of Specific IoT Applications \r\n','Jafar A. Alzubi, R. Manikandan*, Omar. A. Alzubi, N. Gayathri and Rizwan Patan','A Survey of Specific IoT Applications Alzubi et al.pdf','',1,'','','','',''),(1375,'57','Secure and Efficient Data Communication for Hierarchal Cluster using Identity based Signatures','Sangamesh Kalyane and Nagaraj B. Patil','Secure and Efficient Data Communication for Hierarchal Cluster using Identity based Signatures SANGAMESH KALYANE.pdf','',1,'','','','',''),(1376,'57','Cognitive Knowledge of Routing Protocol Configuration in Smart City','B. Monica , K. Rajkumar , K.R. Sekar , R. Manikandan and K. Bagyalakshmi','Cognitive Knowledge of Routing Protocol Configuration in Smart City K RAJKUMAR.pdf','',1,'','','','',''),(1377,'57','An Approach with Steganography and Scrambling Mechanism for Hiding Image over Images','G. Manikandan , R. Bala Krishnan , E. Preethivi , K.R. Sekar , R. Manikandan and J. Prassanna','An Approach with Steganography and Scrambling Mechanism for Hiding Image over Images R MANIKANDAN new.pdf','',1,'','','','',''),(1378,'57','Analysis of Cloud Computing for Security Issues and Approaches','Sheeba Khan and Shailja Sharma','Analysis of Cloud Computing for Security Issues and Approaches SHEEBA KHAN.pdf','',1,'','','','',''),(1379,'57','Review of Urban Conservation Practices in Historic Cities','Shradha Chandan and Ashwani Kumar','Review of Urban Conservation Practices in Historic Cities SHRADHA CHANDAN.pdf','',1,'','','','',''),(1380,'28','State Initiatives in Developing Entrepreneurship: A Study of Jammu and Kashmir Entrepreneurship Development Institute (JKEDI)','Irm Jalali Bodha','State Initiatives in Developing Entrepreneurship A Study of Jammu and Kashmir Entrepreneurship Development Institute JKEDI IRM.pdf','',1,'','','','',''),(1381,'33','Religious Diversity, Tolerance and Pluralism The Islamic Perspective','Irm Jalali Bodha','Religious Diversity Tolerance and Pluralism The Islamic Perspective IRM Jalali Bodha.pdf','',1,'','','','',''),(1382,'57','Feasibility on Grey Water Treatment by Electrocoagulation Process: A Review','Khalid Ansari and A.N. Shrikhande','Feasibility on Grey Water Treatment by Electrocoagulation Process A Review KHALID ANSARI.pdf','',1,'','','','',''),(1383,'57','Design and UVM Verification of High Speed ALU','J. Selva Kumar , Rohit Konathala , R. Manikandan , C. Ramesh and Robbi Rahim','Design and UVM Verification of High Speed ALU R MANIKANDAN.pdf','',0,'','','','',''),(1384,'54','A Report on Metal Enhanced, Solvent Tolerant Endoglucanase\r\nfrom Strict Thermophilic Bacillus sp. PW1 and Bacillus sp. PW2\r\nof North West Himalayas','Divyanshi Sharma, Kamal Dev and Anuradha Sourirajan','A Report on Metal Enhanced Solvent Tolerant Endoglucanase from Strict Thermophilic Bacillus sp. PW1 and Bacillus sp. PW2 of North West Himalayas ANURADHA SOURIRAJAN.pdf','',1,'The cellulolytic activity of two thermophilic bacterial strains Bacillus sp. PW1 and Bacillus sp. PW2 isolated from Tattapani hot spring of North Western Himalayas were characterized. Both the strains exhibited extracellular CMCase activity, indicating the endoglucanase potential of the cellulases. There was no detectable cellulase activity of both the strains below 40ÂºC, indicating thermophilic nature of the cellulase enzymes. Optimum temperature and pH for cellulase activity of both PW1 and PW2 was 80ÂºC and 8, respectively. Various metal ions enhanced the cellulase activity of the bacterial strains, with Ca2+, and Hg2+ showing the maximum effect. Interestingly, the cellulase of the two bacterial strains was active in the presence of solvents (0.5 % v/v) like Ethanol, n-butanol and cyclohexane, and the denaturant, SDS (0.5% w/v). Glucose and Galactose were best carbon sources, while beef extract and tryptone the best nitrogen sources for the maximum production of cellulase by the tw','Endoglucanase, Thermophilic, metal ions, organic solvent tolerance, Tattapani, hot spring, Himachal Pradesh, India.','In our study, we have explored two thermophiles namely Bacillus sp. PW1 and Bacillus sp. PW2 of Tattapani hot spring (Himachal Pradesh, India) for their cellulolytic potential. Extracellular Cellulase activity of the two bacterial strains was analyzed at various pH and temperature. Maximum activity was observed at pH 8 and 80ÂºC, indicating thermoalkalophilic nature of the cellulase activity of Bacillus sp. PW1 and Bacillus sp. PW2. Production of cellulase by both the strains was best in media containing Glucose and Galactose as carbon sources, and beef Extract, and tryptone as nitrogen sources. Various metal ions enhanced the cellulase activity of both the bacterial strains, with Hg2+ and Ca2+ showing the best activation of activity. The cellulase activity of both strains showed tolerance to a wide range of solvents and detergents like SDS, thereby revealing their ample potential for industrial applications. Thus, the thermozymes of Bacillus sp. PW1 and Bacillus sp. PW2 characterized ','-','Sharma, Divyanshi, Dev, Kamal and Sourirajan, Anuradha (2019). A Report on Metal Enhanced, Solvent Tolerant Endoglucanase from Strict Thermophilic Bacillus sp. PW1 and Bacillus sp. PW2 of North West Himalayas. Biological Forum â€“ An International Jour'),(1385,'57','Design and UVM Verification of High Speed ALU ','\r\nJ. Selva Kumar, Rohit Konathala , R. Manikandan, C. Ramesh and Robbi Rahim','Design and UVM Verification of High Speed ALU R. MANIKANDAN.pdf','',1,'','','','',''),(1386,'57','Control Strategies Governing Induction Motors as Industrial Drivesâ€“ A Technical Review','Sudeshna Ghosh , Pankaj Swarnkar and D.M. Deshpande','Control Strategies Governing Induction Motors as Industrial Drives A Technical Review SUDESHNA GHOSH.pdf','',1,'','','','',''),(1387,'57','Solar Energy development: Case study in Malaysia and Morocco ','Ho Soon Min*, SaÃ¯f ed DÃ®n Fertahi, Tarik Bouhal, Ng Shu Naa and M.A.C. Munaaim','Solar Energy development Case study in Malaysia and Morocco HO SOON MIN.pdf','',1,'','','','',''),(1388,'57','Advanced Controlling Schemes for Active Power Filter: A Review ','Pankaj Swarnkar, Shailendra Kumar Jain and R.K. Nema','Advanced Controlling Schemes for Active Power Filter A Review DR PANKAJ SWARNKAR.pdf','',1,'','','','',''),(1389,'57','An Optimized Energy Efficient Clustering and Load Balancing Approach for MultiHop Wireless Sensor Network ','M. Gomathi, P. Sivanesan, K.R. Sekar, R. Manikandan, Rajasoundaran Soundararajan','An Optimized Energy Efficient Clustering and Load Balancing Approach for Multi Hop Wireless Sensor Network RMANIKANDAN.pdf','',1,'','','','',''),(1390,'57','A Study on the Automatically Allocating DHCP Additional Service IPs Using\r\nSDN/NFV Technology ','So-Ki Jung ','A Study on the Automatically Allocating DHCP Additional Service IPs Using SDNNFV Technology SO-KI JUNG.pdf','',1,'','','','',''),(1391,'54','Comparing antibacterial activity of â€œcow urineâ€“Acacia stem bark\r\nextractâ€ against pathogenic bacteria ','Kajal Sharma*, Deepinderpal Singh, Sandeep Kaur, Amanpreet Kaur and Navjot Kaur','Comparing antibacterial activity of cow urine Acacia stem bark extract against pathogenic bacteria E coli DEEPINDER PAL SINGH.pdf','',1,'In India, Cow has been considered as a holy animal. The use of cow urine for curing many diseases has been known from ancient times. Similarly, the plants are worshiped in India. Also, the various plant parts are used in treatment of incurable diseases and the Acacia is one of them. Each part of Acacia like leaves, stem, etc. used to treat a number of diseases. The present study was undertaken to determine the antibacterial activity against pathogenic bacteria E. coli at different concentrations with different organic and cow urine extract of Acacia using well diffusion method. The cow urine extract of Acacia shows the maximum antibacterial activity which is may be due to the presence of inhibitory components in both of them. Thus the combination of both of them can be used to treat many diseases caused by pathogenic bacteria E. coli.','Acacia, well diffusion method, antibacterial activity.','From the above study it can be concluded that extract of cow urine and Acacia stem bark powder showed maximum zone of inhibition while the organic and aqueous extracts does not show such high antibacterial activity. Thus the plant based formulation of cow urine can be used for curing many diseases caused by E. coli. It is also an inventive step for the development of new drugs.','-','Sharma, Kajal, Singh, Deepinderpal, Kaur, Sandeep, Kaur, Amanpreet and Kaur, Navjot (2019). Comparing antibacterial activity of â€œAcacia stem bark â€“ cow urine extractâ€ and various organic extracts against pathogenic bacteria E. coli. Biological Foru'),(1392,'57','Thermal Performance of Natural Convection Solar Dryer for Drying Chilli ','Sridhar Duraisamy , S. Dhanushkodi , K . Paneerselvam and K. Sudhakar','Thermal Performance of Natural Convection Solar Dryer for Drying Chilli K SUDHAKAR.pdf','',1,'','','','',''),(1393,'59','A New Black Mildew Fungi (Meliola cyamopsidis sp. nov., Ascomycetes, Meliolales) From Malabar Wildlife Sanctuary, India','Lini K. Mathew ','A New Black Mildew Fungi Meliola cyamopsidis sp nov Ascomycetes Meliolales From Malabar Wildlife Sanctuary.pdf','',1,'','','','',''),(1394,'59','Occurrence of Uvigerinids and Buliminids benthic foraminifera along the western continental margin, eastern Arabian Sea','R. Ranju , M. Nashad , N.R.Menon','Occurrence of Uvigerinids and Buliminids benthic foraminifera along the western continental margin eastern Arabian Sea.pdf','',1,'','','','',''),(1395,'59','An updated checklist of the mammals of West\r\nBengal','Jayanta Kumar Mallick','An updated checklist of the mammals of West.pdf','',1,'','','','',''),(1396,'59','The efficacy of hot water seed treatment against Xanthomonas campestris pv. campestris in the control of black rot disease of cabbage under field conditions','Jackson Gitange Ombuna , Johnson Nyangeri , Samson Maobe','The efficacy of hot water seed treatment against Xanthomonas campestris pv.pdf','',1,'','','','',''),(1397,'54','Fatigue Detection of Workers using Supervised Learning','Nisha Yadav , Kakoli Banerjee and Vikram Bali','Fatigue Detection of Workers using Supervised Learning DR KAKOLI BANERJEE.pdf','',1,'For worker fatigue detection, machine vision and image processing could be helpful. There have been many research developed in this field in recent years for driver drowsiness detection but not for workers in software industries. A new method for worker fatigue detection has been proposed in this paper that uses eye condition for fatigue state. There are many techniques used for driver drowsiness detection but the same cannot be used for fatigue detection as one of the important factors is screen illumination for the workers who are working day and night on the systems (laptops or computers). Screen illumination is the light of the computer screen or laptop screen that is casted on the workers face that affects the eyes of the workers. Fatigue not only degrades quality but also acts as a health risk factor resulting in sleep disorder, depression, stress and also decreases the productivity of the company. To avoid the mistakes occurring due to fatigue a mechanism is proposed to measure ','Face Detection, Extraction, Drowsiness, Estimation','The proposed approach presents worker fatigue detection system which is based on computer vision with machine learning. The proposed system uses eyes state of the worker who is working on the system with the help of real time frame capturing from video. In the first, we locate face and eyes of the worker using Haar feature. Shape predictor allows the iris centre detection and the points of intersection for the two to calculate aspect ratio of the eyes. This analysis is confirmed by the facial landmark detection algorithm to find bests results for the benefit for the workers. The results of this approach show a good precision rate for features of the eyes. It can therefore be concluded that worker fatigue can be detected in advance by using the proposed method before any error or fatal health condition occurs. It will not only measure productivity, but it will also ensure software workers \' health condition.','-','Yadav, Nisha, Banerjee, Kakoli and Bali, Vikram (2019). Fatigue Detection of Workers using Supervised Learning. Biological Forum â€“ An International Journal, 11(1): 236-242.'),(1398,'54','Species Composition, Endemism and Local Status of Hawkmoths\r\n(Heterocera: Sphingidae) in the two Proposed Expansion sites of Mt.\r\nHamiguitan Range Wildlife Sanctuary, Davao Oriental, Philippines','Alma B. Mohagan, Romeo M. Tubongbanua, Jr.*, Daniel O. Amper , Aldrin L. Hongco , Fulgent P. Coritico , Felipe S. Gorme, Jr. , Victor B. Amoroso , Ruel D. Colong and Roy G. Ponce','Species Composition Endemism and Local Status of Hawkmoths Heterocera Sphingidae in the two Proposed Expansion sites of Mt Hamiguitan Range Wildlife Sanctuary Davao Oriental PhilippinROMEO TUBONGBANUA.pdf','',1,'Sphingidae, also known as Hawkmoths or Sphinx Moths, are ecological indicators that are naturally affected by environmental stresses. They have a widespread distribution from Southeast Asia and play significant roles in the environment as indicators of the quality of habitat and biomass degradation. Mt. Hamiguitan Range Wildlife Sanctuary(MHRWS), as the only world heritage site in the Philippines, has been subjected to numerous conservation studies of flora and fauna for several years. There were significant studies on Lepidopterans in MHRWS, but there were no reports on moth species, specifically on the family Sphingidae. Thus, this study was carried out in Sitio Tagtigcup, Barangay La Union, San Isidro and Ecopark of Mansinagan, Governor Generoso, Davao Oriental to provide data on the composition, endemism and status of Hawkmoths. Light trap sampling were established using 3 Ã— 4m white silk cloth and 250 V light bulbs in the two proposed expansion sites. A total of 6 genera with 8 s','Sphinx moth, Lepidoptera, Light trap, San Isidro, Governor Generoso','The proposed expansion sites of MHRWS are home to 8 species of hawkmoths, which composed 37.5% of the total endemicity in the Philippines. These species constitute 50% local or uncommon species, 37.5% common species, and 12.5% rare in the Philippines. The fact that these hawkmoths are vulnerable to anthropogenic disturbances, it is recommended that the two proposed expansion sites of MHRWS be declared as part of the protected area of MHRWS.','-','Alma B. Mohagan, Romeo M. Tubongbanua, Jr., Daniel O. Amper, Aldrin L. Hongco, Fulgent P. Coritico, Felipe S. Gorme, Jr., Victor B. Amoroso, Ruel D. Colong and Roy G. Ponce (2019). Species Composition, Endemism and Local Status of Hawkmoths (Heterocera: S'),(1399,'54','Impact of Serum Interleukin 6 (IL-6) Level of Patients with Acute &\r\nChronic Hepatitis B Virus','Ali A. Dawood','Impact of Serum Interleukin 6 IL-6 Level of Patients with Acute & Chronic Hepatitis B Virus ALI A DAWOOD.pdf','',1,'Hepatitis B infection is a global health problem. Hepatitis B virus infects liver and causes inflammation reaching to hepatocellular carcinoma. The human interleukin 6 (IL-6) is a multifunctional cytokine that interfere in the regulation, maturation and differentiation of immune response. The aim of this study is to demonstrate the interleukin 6 (IL-6) and correlates with ALT and AST levels in patients serum with hepatitis B virus. We evaluate 58 patients presumably with HBV in acute and chronic cases whom have HBsAg positive. AST and ALT chemical serum levels were detected using kits of an automated chemical analyzer. IL-6 serum level was detected using ELISA technique. Correlation between parameters were done using One-ANOVA and Analyse-it statistical software. IL-6 serum level is raised with acute hepatitis B patients more than of chronic hepatitis B with high concentration absorption. The AST and ALT levels were elevated with AHB group more than CHB group. The correlation between I','AHB, CHB, IL-6, HBsAg, AST.','In conclusion, our data indicated that serum levels of IL-6 elevated with the increase of AST levels in patients with acute hepatitis B. The serum levels of IL-6, AST and ALT varied in different courses of acute and chronic hepatitis B virus infections. We surmised that IL-6 level might indicate liver injury of patients with acute hepatitis B infections. Moreover, negative correlation coefficient was emerged between chemical parameters and hepatitis cases according with age serial groups.','-','Dawood, Ali A. (2019). Impact of serum Interleukin 6 (IL-6) level of patients with acute & chronic Hepatitis B virus. Biological Forum â€“ An International Journal, 11(1): 248-254.'),(1400,'57','The Virtual Personal Assistant (VPA) - Learning Process ','K. Rajkumar , B. Monica , K.R. Sekar , R. Manikandan and Robbi Rahim','The Virtual Personal Assistant VPA Learning Process R MANIKANDAN.pdf','',1,'','','','',''),(1402,'57','Dynamical Behavior of Prey-Predator System with Alternative Food for Predator ','Nishant Juneja and Kulbhushan Agnihotri','Dynamical Behavior of Prey Predator System with Alternative Food for Predator NISHANT JUNEJA.pdf','',1,'','','','',''),(1403,'59','Effect of prescribed burning on the composition and structure of forest vegetation in the ozarks of Northwest Arkansas','Francis N. Onduso , Steven L. Stephenson , Frederick Paillet , Tony Collins','Effect of prescribed burning on the composition and structure of forest vegetation in the ozarks of Northwest Arkansas.pdf','',1,'','','','',''),(1404,'53','A Review of Channel Estimation Techniques in MIMO-OFDM LTE System','Shivangi Jain and Prof. Amrita Khera','A Review of Channel Estimation Techniques in MIMO OFDM LTE System SHIVANGI JAIN.pdf','',1,'','','','',''),(1406,'53','Performance and Analysis of Distributed Power Electronics in Photovoltaic Systems ','Saloni S. Patel* and Prof. Alka Thakur','Performance and Analysis of Distributed Power Electronics in Photovoltaic Systems SALONI.pdf','',1,'','','','',''),(1407,'53','A review of Next Generation 5G Device-to-Device (D2D) ','Kumar Shanu and Aman Saraf ','A review of Next Generation 5G Device to Device D2D KUMAR SANU.pdf','',1,'','','','',''),(1408,'53','A Literature review of Diagnosis of Heart Disease using Data Mining Techniques','Leena Sarvaiya, Himanshu Yadav and Chetan Agrawal ','A Literature review of Diagnosis of Heart Disease using Data Mining Techniques LENA SARVAIYAEV.pdf','',1,'','','','',''),(1409,'53','A Review of Enhancing Energy Efficiency of Wireless Sensor Network ','Niharika, Himanshu Yadav and Chetan Agrawal','A Review of Enhancing Energy Efficiency of Wireless Sensor Network NIHARIKA.pdf','',1,'','','','',''),(1410,'57','Comparative Study on Performance of Document Classification Using\r\nSupervised Machine Learning Algorithms: KNIME ','Syed Muzamil Basha , K. Bagyalakshmi , C. Ramesh , Robbi Rahim , R. Manikandan and Ambeshwar Kumar','Comparative Study on Performance of Document Classification Using Supervised Machine Learning Algorithms KNIMEMANIKANDAN.pdf','',1,'','','','',''),(1411,'57','The Innovative Execution of Fuzzy Automata Spaces in Developing Fuzzy Automata Inverse Semi-Groups ','M. Suresh Babu,* and E. Keshava Reddy','The Innovative Execution of Fuzzy Automata Spaces in Developing Fuzzy Automata Inverse Semi Groups M SURESH BABU.pdf','',1,'','','','',''),(1412,'57','Piled Raft Foundation: Case study Review ','J.M. Raut* , S.R. Khadeshwar and S.P. Bajad','Piled Raft Foundation Case study Review PROF.JM RAUT.pdf','',1,'','','','',''),(1413,'57','A Study on Approaches for Measuring Residual Stress','Basavaraj Kawdi ','A Study on Approaches for Measuring Residual Stress.pdf','',1,'','','','',''),(1414,'57','Methodological Approach towards Reliving Katra: A Cultural Cluster for Tourism','Geetika Mathavan , Anoop Kumar Sharma and Rajeev Garg','Methodological Approach towards Reliving Katra A Cultural Cluster for Tourism.pdf','',1,'','','','',''),(1415,'57','Utilization of Coal Fly Ash as a Raw Material for the Synthesis of Zeolite like Substance','G. Elavarasan , P. Rajakrishnamoorthy , D. Karthikeyan and C.G. Saravanan','Utilization of Coal Fly Ash as a Raw Material for the Synthesis of Zeolite like Substance G-ELAVARASAN.pdf','',1,'','','','',''),(1416,'57','A Geospatial Approach for Groundwater Potential Assessment Using Multi Influence Factor (MIF) Technique','Abu Talha Sohail , Suraj Kumar Singh and Shruti Kanga','A Geospatial Approach for Groundwater Potential Assessment Using Multi Influence Factor MIF Technique SURAJ KUMAR SINGH.pdf','',1,'','','','',''),(1417,'57','Kerala Flood 2018: Flood Mapping by Participatory GIS approach, Meloor Panchayat','Jean Joy , Shruti Kanga and Suraj Kumar Singh','Kerala Flood 2018 Flood Mapping by Participatory GIS approach Meloor Panchayat SHRUTI KANGA.pdf','',1,'','','','',''),(1418,'59','An observational note on anomalous mating behaviour of Duttaphrynus melanostictus (Schneider, 1799) at human habitation, Faridpur, Bangladesh','Naim Khandakar*, Delip K. Das, Md. Ashik Jahan Galib , Kamrun Nahar Jeny, Md. Soab Ali','An observational note on anomalous mating behaviour of Duttaphrynus melanostictus1.pdf','',1,'','','','',''),(1419,'54','Assessment of Plant Diversity in Fatehpur Beat of Shikari Devi Wild Life Sanctuary of District Mandi, Himachal Pradesh','R.K. Verma* and K.S. Kapoor','Assessment of Plant Diversity in Fatehpur Beat of Shikari Devi Wild Life Sanctuary of District Mandi Himachal Pradesh RK VERMA.pdf','',1,'A study was conducted to understand the plant diversity along an altitudinal gradient with elevations varying from 2400-3300m above msl in Fatehpur beat of Shikari Devi wild life sanctuary of district Mandi, Himachal Pradesh during 2016. Total 159 plant species belonging to 47 families and 93 genera were recorded from the study area. The dominant families were Rosaceae, Compositae, Ploygonaceae, Labiatae and Leguminosae. The number of tree species was 9, 4 and 5 with the dominance of Abies pindrow, Picea smithiana and Quercus semecarpifolia at 2400-2700, 2700-3000 and 3000-3300 m elevation respectively. The number of shrub species was 10, 8 and 8 at the elevation of with the dominance of Berberis lycium, Berberis lycium and Salix denticulata at 2400-2700, 2700-3000 and 3000-3300 m elevation respectively. The number of herbs species was 37, 36 and 42 at 2400-2700, 2700-3000 and 3000-3300 m elevation with the dominance of Valeriana jatamansi, Iris kemaonensis and Anaphalis triplinervis r','Diversity, Dominance, Diversity index, Conservation, Distribution.','A study was conducted to understand the plant diversity along an altitudinal gradient with elevations varying from 2400-3300m above msl in Fatehpur beat of Shikari Devi wild life sanctuary of district Mandi, Himachal Pradesh during 2016. Total 159 plant species belonging to 47 families and 93 genera were recorded from the study area. The dominant families were Rosaceae, Compositae, Ploygonaceae, Labiatae and Leguminosae. The number of tree species was 9, 4 and 5 with the dominance of Abies pindrow, Picea smithiana and Quercus semecarpifolia at 2400-2700, 2700-3000 and 3000-3300 m elevation respectively. The number of shrub species was 10, 8 and 8 at the elevation of with the dominance of Berberis lycium, Berberis lycium and Salix denticulata at 2400-2700, 2700-3000 and 3000-3300 m elevation respectively. The number of herbs species was 37, 36 and 42 at 2400-2700, 2700-3000 and 3000-3300 m elevation with the dominance of Valeriana jatamansi, Iris kemaonensis and Anaphalis triplinervis r','-','Verma, R.K. and Kapoor, K.S. (2019). Assessment of Plant Diversity in Fatehpur Beat of Shikari Devi Wild Life Sanctuary of District Mandi, Himachal Pradesh. Biological Forum â€“ An International Journal, 11(1): 255-263.'),(1420,'54','Study of Langmuir and Freundlich Adsorption Isotherms for Heavy Metal Removal from Soil using New Bidentate Schiff base','Nelofer Jamil , Noureen Khan , Rukhsana Jabeen and Ziviqar Sheikh','Study of Langmuir and Freundlich Adsorption Isotherms for Heavy Metal Removal from Soil using New Bidentate Schiff base NELOFER JAMIL.pdf','',1,'Soil contamination by heavy metals is one of the most important environmental problem. The restoration and suitable protection of the soil contaminated by heavy metals is consequently required. There are many common techniques which had been used by researchers since long. In the present study newly synthesized Schiff base was used as a adsorbent for physicochemical treatment of soil. Schiff base ligand (SBL) was synthesized from aldehyde and dimer of o-toulidin and then characterized by spectroscopic techniques (UV-Vis, IR spectra and NMR spectroscopy). Results showed the Schiff base was active in adsorbing heavy metals in the sequence as Co>Cu>Zn from the soil. It had been observed that as Greater the concentration greater is the adsorption percentage and same trend was followed by isotherms models (Langmuir and Freundlich) that fits the obtained results as R2 ranges between 95 to 100%.','Soil, heavy metals, adsorption, isotherm models.','Present study was based on the estimation of feasibility of Schiff base ligand use as a efficient adsorbent for the removal of Zn(II), Cu(II) and Co(II) from soil suspension/solution. \r\nThe results were analyzed using two adsorption isotherm models naming as the Freundlich and Langmuir, isotherm models. By using the Langmuir isotherm, the adsorption capacities for Co(II), Zn(II) and Cu(II) are found as 8.5 mg/g, 4.5 mg/g and 4.0 mg/g respectively. The effectiveness of SBL with respect to adsorption of the three metals from soil system was Co(II) > Zn(II) > Cu(II) and this could be explained with reference to ionic radii of the metal ions. The SF (separation parameters) are found to be less than 1 which indicated the SBL is a good adsorbent for Zn, Cu, and Co metal ions. Adsorption studies in batch experiments, there was in increase in the uptake (mg/g) of Zn(II), Cu(II) and Co(II) ions with increase in contact time and concentration. Therefore, study concluded that removal of pollution','-','Jamil, N., Khan, N., Jabeen, R. and Sheikh, Z. (2019). Study of Langmuir and Freundlich Adsorption Isotherms for Heavy Metal Removal from Soil using New Bidentate Schiff base. Biological Forum â€“ An International Journal, 11(1): 264-270.'),(1421,'57','Quantified Performance Analysis of Selection Algorithms Implemented in Mobile Robot Path Planning','Suresh K.S., Kesudh G., Hemanath S. and K.R. Sekar','Quantified Performance Analysis of Selection Algorithms Implemented in Mobile Robot Path Planning K R SEKAR.pdf','',1,'','','','',''),(1422,'60','Diagnostic Techniques of Soil Borne Plant Diseases: Recent\r\nAdvances and Next Generation Evolutionary Trends','Raju Ghosh, Avijit Tarafdar, Devashish R. Chobe, U.S. Sharath Chandran, Sudharani and Mamta Sharma','Diagnostic Techniques of Soil Borne Plant Diseases Recent Advances and Next Generation Evolutionary Trends -MAMTA SHARMA.pdf','',1,'All about 80000 diseases have been recorded in plants throughout the world, of them majority are associated with soil-borne diseases. Early, speedy and reliable detection of plant pathogens is prerequisite to optimize suitable and accurate management strategy. Traditionally, the most prevalent techniques used to identify plant pathogens relied upon culture-based morphological approaches; these methods were laborious, time-consuming. Molecular detection strategies could solve these limitations with improved accuracy and reliability. The DNA and protein based pathogen detection techniques such as DNA fingerprinting, biochemical assays, isothermal amplification techniques and serology are gaining importance in rapid soil borne pathogen detection due to their high degree of specificity to distinguish closely related organisms at different taxonomic levels. Here, we review the various molecular tools used for detection of several soil-borne plant pathogens and its implementation in agricult','soil-borne; plant pathogen; disease diagnosis; next generation; advance techniques ','Plant pathogen diagnostic techniques have contributed significantly to our ability to detect and investigate in the laboratory and, most recently, directly in the field.The current state of the art techniques demonstrate reproducible sensitivity and are generally much faster than conventional techniques. Better understanding of pathogenicity factors, rapid and accurate detection of fungal pathogens to the species level are prerequisite for disease surveillance and development of novel disease control strategies. Moreover, a timely detection of resistance levels in soil borne fungi in a field would help the growers formulate proper decisions on resistance management programs to control diseases. However, since no single method satisfies all or even most of the emerging criteria for faster, effective, reproducible and sensitive results, there is still an obvious knowledge gap in research in this field.\r\n\r\n','-','Ghosh, R., Tarafdar, A., Chobe, D.R., Chandran, U.S. S., Sudharani and Sharma M. (2019). Diagnostic Techniques of Soil Borne Plant Diseases: Recent Advances and Next Generation Evolutionary Trends. Biological Forum â€“ An International Journal, 11(2): 01'),(1423,'57','Optimization of Software Package Selection using Cohesion Measurement and\r\nComplexity Metric for CBSS Development ','Iyyappan M. and Arvind Kumar','Optimization of Software Package Selection using Cohesion Measurement and Complexity Metric for CBSS Development.pdf','',1,'','','','',''),(1424,'62','SWOT Analysis of Solar PV Systems in Airport Environment ','S. Sreenath, K. Sudhakar and A.F. Yusop','SWOT Analysis of Solar PV Systems in Airport Environment K SUDHAKAR1.pdf','',1,'','','','',''),(1425,'63','The Role of Smart Government Characteristics for Enhancing UAEâ€™s Public Service Quality','Khalid Alghawi, Ali Ameen and Amiya Bhaumik','The Role of Smart Government Characteristics for Enhancing.pdf','',1,'','','','',''),(1426,'63','Factors Influencing User Satisfaction in UAE by using Internet','Mohammed Alameri Osama Isaac and Amiya Bhaumik ','Factors Influencing User Satisfaction in UAE by using Internet.pdf','',1,'','','','',''),(1427,'63','Effect of Transformational Leadership on Human Capital among Public Sector Employees in Abu Dhabi','Bader Abdulla Alneyadi, Ahmed H. Al-Shibami, Ali Ameen and Amiya Bhaumik ','Effect of Transformational Leadership on Human.pdf','',1,'','','','',''),(1428,'63','Moderating Effect of Organizational Culture on Relationship between Transformational Leadership and Human Capital: An Empirical Study on Public Sector of UAE','Bader Abdulla Alneyadi, Ahmed H. Al-Shibami, Ali Ameen and Amiya Bhaumik ','Moderating Effect of Organizational Culture on Relationship.pdf','',1,'','','','',''),(1429,'63','Business Continuity Management and Crisis Leadership: An Approach to ReEngineer Crisis Performance within Abu Dhabi Governmental Entities','Mohamed Naser. A.N. Alharthi and Gamal S.A. Khalifa','Business Continuity Management and Crisis Leadership.pdf','',1,'','','','',''),(1430,'63','Antecedent and Consequence of Internet Usage: An Empirical Study among Government Employees in UAE','Mohammed Alameria, Osama Isaac, Ali Ameenc and Amiya Bhaumik','Antecedent and Consequence of Internet Usage.pdf','',1,'','','','',''),(1431,'63','The Effects of Intellectual Capital on Organizational Innovation within Abu Dhabi Police in UAE','Saif Alshamsi, Osama Isaac and Amya Bhaumik','The Effects of Intellectual Capital on Organizational.pdf','',1,'','','','',''),(1432,'63','Empirical Study of the UAE-based Smart Governmentâ€™s Characteristics and its Effect on Performance Quality','Khalid Alghawi, Ali Ameen and Amiya Bhaumik ','Empirical Study of the UAE-based Smart .pdf','',1,'','','','',''),(1433,'63','Effect of Transformational Leadership on Intellectual Capital and Organizational Innovation','Saif Alshamsi, Osama Isaac, and Amya Bhaumik \r\n','Effect of Transformational Leadership on Intellectual.pdf','',1,'','','','',''),(1434,'63','Factors Affecting the Efficacy of UAE-based Halal Food Sectors','Jumaa Al Junaii, Ali Abdulabaqi Ameern and Amiya Bhaumik \r\n','Factors Affecting the Efficacy of.pdf','',1,'','','','',''),(1435,'63','Knowledge Economyâ€™s Role in Solidification of Finance Sector in UAE','Jumaa Al Junaii, Ali Abdulabaqi Ameern and Amiya Bhaumik \r\n','Knowledge Economy Role in Solidification12.pdf','',1,'','','','',''),(1437,'63','Influence of Human Resource Management on Organizational Efficiency and Effectiveness within ADNOC in UAE','Talal Alshehhi, Amiya Bhaumik and Sharad Gangele \r\n','Influence of Human Resource Management on Organizational Efficiency .pdf','',1,'','','','',''),(1438,'63','Association between Transformational Leadership and Smart Government among Employees in UAE Public Organizations','Fahad Al-Obthani and Ali Ameen ','Association between Transformational Leadership1.pdf','',1,'','','','',''),(1439,'62','Review of Control Techniques in Intertied AC- DC Hybrid Power System','Preeti Gupta and Pankaj Swarnkar','Review of Control Techniques in Intertied AC DC Hybrid Power System PREETI GUPTA.pdf','',1,'','','','',''),(1443,'57','Educational Performance Values for Managing the Public Schools in Saudi Arabia ','Safar Bakheet Almudara ','Educational Performance Values for Managing the Public Schools in Saudi Arabia -SAFAR ALMUDARA BAKHEET.pdf','',1,'','','','',''),(1444,'62','Investigation of Various Techniques and Classification Methods on Cognitive\r\nSentimental Learning ','D. Venkatesan, K. Vithiya Ruba and K.R. Sekar ','Investigation of Various Techniques and Classification Methods on Cognitive Sentimental Learning K.R. SEKAR.pdf','',1,'','','','',''),(1445,'62','Influence of Temperature and Light Intensity on the Growth Performance of\r\nSpirulina platensis','Ruma Arora Soni , K. Sudhakar, and R.S. Rana','Influence of Temperature and Light Intensity on the Growth Performance of Spirulina platensis RUMA ARORA SONI.pdf','',1,'','','','',''),(1446,'62','SVM Classification of Cell Survival/Apoptotic Death for Color Texture Images of Survival Receptor Proteins','Shruti Jain and Meenakshi Sood','SVM Classification of Cell SurvivalApoptotic Death for Color Texture Images of Survival Receptor Proteins SHRUTI JAIN1.pdf','',1,'','','','',''),(1448,'57','A Systematic Review of Literature on General and Social Entrepreneurship ','Smitha Pillai','A Systematic Review of Literature on General and Social Entrepreneurship SMITHA PILLAI.pdf','',1,'','','','',''),(1449,'62','An Edge based Steganographic Approach using a two Level Security Scheme for Digital Image Processing and Analysis','Kalyan Kumar Jena, Sasmita Mishra, Sarojananda Mishra and Sourav Kumar Bhoi','An Edge based Steganographic Approach using a two Level Security Scheme for Digital Image Processing and Analysis SOURAV KUMAR BHOI FINAL.pdf','',1,'','','','',''),(1450,'62','Emerging Trends in Indian Competition Law: Special Reference to Cartel ','Sudhir Kumar Saklani','Emerging Trends in Indian Competition Law Special Reference to Cartel SUDHIR SAKLANI.pdf','',1,'','','','',''),(1451,'62','Performance Analysis of 8 X 8 MU-MIMO in Uplink of LTE-A ','Rajashree A. Patil,*, P. Kavipriya and B.P. Patil','Performance Analysis of 8 X 8 MU-MIMO in Uplink of LTE A RAJASHREE A PATIL.pdf','',1,'','','','',''),(1452,'62','Recent Trends in Sustainable Big Data Predictive Analytics: Past Contributions and Future Roadmap','Syed Muzamil Basha , Dharmendra Singh Rajput , S. Bharath Bhushan , Ravi Kumar Poluru , Rizwan Patan , R. Manikandan and Ambeshwar Kumar','Recent Trends in Sustainable Big Data Predictive Analytics Past Contributions and Future Roadmap MANIKNANDAN.pdf','',1,'','','','',''),(1453,'62','Comprehensive Comparison and Analysis of Nature Inspired ACO based Routing Algorithms in Ad Hoc Networks ','Deepika Dhawan and Rajeshwar Singh\r\n ','Comprehensive Comparison and Analysis of Nature Inspired ACO based Routing Algorithms in Ad Hoc Networks DR RAJESHWAR.pdf','',1,'','','','',''),(1454,'62','A Study on Specific Computational Algorithms for VLSI Cell Partitioning\r\nProblems','R. Manikandan , R. Parameshwaran, J. Prassanna and K.R. Sekar','A Study on Specific Computational Algorithms for VLSI Cell Partitioning Problems MANIKNANDAN1.pdf','',1,'','','','',''),(1458,'60','Application of Bioinformatic Tools for Prediction of Active pH and Temperature Stability of Endoglucanases Based on Coding Sequences from Metagenomic DNA Data','Khanh Hoang Viet Nguyen, Thi Thao Nguyen , Nam Hai Truong and Thi Huyen Do*','Application of Bioinformatic Tools for Prediction of Active pH and Temperature Stability of Endoglucanases Based on Coding Sequences from Metagenomic DNA Data THI HUYEN DO.pdf','',1,'The active pH and temperature stability are important features of enzyme for application. In this study, AcalPred and Tm prediction tools at TBI software were applied for prediction of active pH and temperature stability of two sequences that mined from metagenomic DNA data, coding for endoglucanases (EGC). The predicted results showed that both EGC1, EGC2 were acidic enzymes and Tm of EGC1 was 55-65oC, of EGC2 was lower than 55oC. The EGC1 and EGC2 were expressed in E. coli under infusions form (EGC1) and chimeric form (SUMOEGC2). Both purified EGC1, SUMOEGC2 were active at acidic condition with optimal pH of 6 and 4 respectively. Both enzymes were stable at the temperature lower than 50oC and EGC1 was more stable than SUMOEGC2. These results confirmed the feasibility of AcalPred and the Tm prediction tool for estimating active pH and temperature stability of enzymes based on the coding sequences. ','AcalPred, Tm prediction tool, E. coli, endoglucanase, goat rumen, metagenomic DNA data, recombinant enzymes, termite gut. ','In this study, the AcalPred and the Tm prediction tool expressed to be the powerful tools for prediction of active pH and temperature stability of endoglucanases based on the sequences mined from metagenomic DNA data. The results from bioinformatic prediction agreed with experiment results.','-','Nguyen, Khanh Hoang Viet, Nguyen, Thi Thao, Truong, Nam Hai and Do, Thi Huyen (2019). Application of Bioinformatic tools for Prediction of Active pH and Temperature Stability of Endoglucanases Based on Coding Sequences from Metagenomic DNA data. Biologic'),(1459,'60','Three New Species of Eriocaulon L. (Eriocaulaceae) from India','K.K. Khanna and Anand Kumar','Three New Species of Eriocaulon L Eriocaulaceae from India K K KHANNA.pdf','',1,'Eriocaulon bastarense K.K. Khanna, Eriocaulon chandrae K.K. Khanna and Eriocaulon mirzapurense K.K. Khanna & Anand Kumar are described as new species from India. Eriocaulon bastarense K.K. Khanna is allied to Eriocaulon martianum Wall. ex KÃ¶rn. but differs in the characters of colouration of leaf and sheath, male sepals (spathe) sparsely hoary with acute or acuminate lobes, female sepals hoary and cells of seed coat with appendages of 2-4 rectangular bands. Eriocaulon chandrae K.K. Khanna is allied to Eriocaulon edwardii Fyson but differs in having peduncles pilose towards base, involucral bracts long acuminate or cuspidate, floral bracts cuspidate and petals absent in female flowers while Eriocaulon mirzapurense K.K. Khanna & Anand Kumar is allied to Eriocaulon quinquangulare L. but differs in having involucral bracts distinctly acute at apex, male petals larger and distinctly unequal in size, female petals smaller and seeds yellow in colour. All the new species are described and ill','Eriocaulon bastarense; Eriocaulon chandrae; Eriocaulon mirzapurense; New species; India; Eriocaulaceae.','Eriocaulon bastarense K.K. Khanna, Eriocaulon chandrae K.K. Khanna and Eriocaulon mirzapurense K.K. Khanna & Anand Kumar are described as new species from India. Eriocaulon bastarense K.K. Khanna is allied to Eriocaulon martianum Wall. ex KÃ¶rn. but differs in the characters of colouration of leaf and sheath, male sepals (spathe) sparsely hoary with acute or acuminate lobes, female sepals hoary and cells of seed coat with appendages of 2-4 rectangular bands. Eriocaulon chandrae K.K. Khanna is allied to Eriocaulon edwardii Fyson but differs in having peduncles pilose towards base, involucral bracts long acuminate or cuspidate, floral bracts cuspidate and petals absent in female flowers while Eriocaulon mirzapurense K.K. Khanna & Anand Kumar is allied to Eriocaulon quinquangulare L. but differs in having involucral bracts distinctly acute at apex, male petals larger and distinctly unequal in size, female petals smaller and seeds yellow in colour. All the new species are described and ill','-','Khanna, K.K. and Kumar, A. (2019). Three New species of Eriocaulon L. (Eriocaulaceae) from India. Biological Forum â€“ An International Journal, 11(2): 21-26.'),(1460,'62','Transforming Health Care Big Data Implementing through Aprior-Mapreduce','E. Laxmi Lydia , R. Pandi Selvam , U.S. Kirutikaa , R. Saranya , M. Ilayaraja , K. Shankar and Andino Maseleno','Transforming Health Care Big Data Implementing through Aprior-Mapreduce.pdf','',1,'','','','',''),(1461,'62','A Convective Heat Flow in a Rectangular Cavity with Effect of Non-Isothermal Wall ','K. Gayathri Devi and K. Vijay Babu','A Convective Heat Flow in a Rectangular Cavity with Effect of Non-Isothermal Wall K GAYATRI.pdf','',1,'','','','',''),(1462,'62','Wireless Monitoring and Predictive System for Thermocouples with Real Time Cold Junction Compensation and Wireless Sensor Networks','R.K. Dhammi , K.M. Soni, S. Selvam and Prabhdyal Singh','Wireless Monitoring and Predictive System for Thermocouples with Real Time Cold Junction Compensation and Wireless Sensor Networks RKDHAMMI.pdf','',1,'','','','',''),(1463,'62','An Unsupervised Deep Learning Methods for Fabricating Text Mining Analysis based on Topic Modeling and Document Clustering Techniques','E. Laxmi Lydia , B. Prasad , Madhu Babu Chevuru , K.Shankar , K. Vijaya Kumar','An Unsupervised Deep Learning Methods for Fabricating Text Mining Analysis based on Topic Modeling and Document Clustering Techniques DR E LAXMI LYDIA.pdf','',1,'','','','',''),(1464,'62','Improved Performance of Machine Learning Algorithms via Ensemble Learning Methods of Sentiment Analysis','Premnarayan Arya , Amit Bhagat and Rajit Nair','Improved Performance of Machine Learning Algorithms via Ensemble Learning Methods of Sentiment Analysis.pdf','',1,'','','','',''),(1465,'62','A Classic Search for Dominant Factors in Web Pages using Search Engines and Validation through Data Analytics using R','J. Sethuraman , R. Manikandan , K.R. Sekar , J. Prassanna and Ambeshwar Kumar','A Classic Search for Dominant Factors in Web Pages using Search Engines and Validation through Data Analytics using R MANIKANDAN1.pdf','',1,'','','','',''),(1466,'62','Agent based Dynamic Resource Allocation in Sensor Cloud using Fog Computing','Prashant Sangulagi , Ashok Sutagundar','Agent based Dynamic Resource Allocation in Sensor Cloud using Fog Computing PRASHANT SANGULAGI.pdf','',1,'','','','',''),(1467,'62','Double Loop Decoupled Proportional Controller for Dynamic and Kinematic\r\nModel for a Ground ','Bulbul Behera , Mohd. Imran Ansari , F.B. Sayyad and S.F. Sayyad','Double Loop Decoupled Proportional Controller for Dynamic and Kinematic Model for a Ground DR F B SAYYAD1.pdf','',1,'','','','',''),(1468,'62','Comparison of Performance of Distributed Controller Fault Tolerance Model (DCFT) using Load Balancing in Software defined Networking in well-known Topologies ','Gaurang Lakhani and Amit Kothari','Comparison of Performance of Distributed Controller Fault Tolerance Model DCFT using Load Balancing in Software defined Networking in well known Topologies GAURANG V LAKHANI.pdf','',1,'','','','',''),(1469,'62','Degradation of the Soil Humus Content in the Takhtamukaysky District of the Republic of Adygea','Irina R. Tletseruk *, Yunus N. Ashinov , Irina A. Astakhova , Bella S. Tsipinova , Nadezhda L. Machneva and Denis A. Yurin','Degradation of the Soil Humus Content in the Takhtamukaysky District of the Republic of Adygea IRINA TLETSERUK.pdf','',1,'','','','',''),(1470,'62','Secure Migration of Mobile Agent using AES & Secret Sharing Approach ','Uttam Upadhyay , Pradeep Kumar and Deepti Aggarwal','Secure Migration of Mobile Agent using AES & Secret Sharing Approach UTTAM UPADHYAY.pdf','',1,'','','','',''),(1471,'62','Novel Steganography Methodology Applied in Transposition Cipher for Hiding Text message ','P. Rajendiran , K.R. Sekar , C. Ramesh and R. Manikandan','Novel Steganography Methodology Applied in Transposition Cipher for Hiding Text message MANIKNANDAN.pdf','',1,'','','','',''),(1472,'62','Performance Estimation of Multi Carrier-CDMA for Single/Multi-User detection in Frequency Selective Fading over Wireless Communication Channels','T. Dinesh Kumar and P. Venkatesan','Performance Estimation of Multi Carrier CDMA for SingleMulti User detection in Frequency Selective Fading over Wireless Communication Channels T DINESH KUMAR.pdf','',1,'','','','',''),(1473,'59','Phenological study in papilionoid taxa in Dhule and Nandurbar districts of Maharashtra (India)\r\n','D.A. Patil','Phenological study in papilionoid taxa in Dhule.pdf','',1,'','','','',''),(1474,'62','Data Integration and Data Privacy through â€œPay-As-You-Goâ€ Approach','E. Laxmi Lydia , R. PandiSelvam , R. Saranya, U.S. Kirutikaa , M. Ilayaraja , K. Shankar , Andino Maseleno','Data Integration and Data Privacy through PayAsYouGo Approach LAXMI LYDIA.pdf','',1,'','','','',''),(1475,'62','Lobsters and Heronian Mean used for Alternative Decision making support\r\nsystem for Enterprising Resource Planning ','G. Sathiamoorthy , K.R. Sekar and C. Thaventhiran','Lobsters and Heronian Mean used for Alternative Decision making support system for Enterprising Resource Planning KRSEKAR.pdf','',1,'','','','',''),(1476,'62','Genetic Diversity of Parental and Offspring Population in Ebony (Diospyros celebica Bach) Revealed by Microsatellites Marker','Siti Halimah Larekeng , Muhammad Restu , Arida Susilowati and Henti Hendalastuti Rachmat','Genetic Diversity of Parental and Offspring Population in Ebony SITI HALIMAH LAREKENG.pdf','',1,'','','','',''),(1477,'62','Stock Indices Price Prediction Based on Technical Indicators using Deep Learning Model ','Manish Agrawal , Asif Ullah Khan and Piyush Kumar Shukla','Stock Indices Price Prediction Based on Technical Indicators using Deep Learning Model MANISH AGARWAL.pdf','',1,'','','','',''),(1478,'62','A Security Risk on Data Storage in Cloud based System â€“Survey ','G. Nagarajan and K. Sampath Kumar','A Security Risk on Data Storage in Cloud based System â€“Survey G. NAGARAJAN.pdf','',1,'','','','',''),(1482,'62','Ensemble Classifier Framework for Epileptic Seizure Classification of\r\nEEG Signals ','Meenakshi Sood and Shruti Jain ','Ensemble Classifier Framework for Epileptic Seizure Classification of MEENAKSHI SOOD.pdf','',1,'','','','',''),(1483,'62','Evaluation of Co-adsorption Parameters for Arsenic, Fluoride and Nitrate using\r\nCopper Nanoparticles','Chetna Sharma Jeevan J. Mohindru Amita Mahajanand Umesh K. Garg','Evaluation of Co-adsorption Parameters for Arsenic, Fluoride and Nitrate using UMESH K GARG.pdf','',1,'','','','',''),(1484,'62','An Integrated Methodology for Testing Source Code by Using Multi\r\nConstraint Reduction, Test Suite Prioritization and Prioritized Parallelization ','Pradeep Udupa and A. Rijuvana Begum','An Integrated Methodology for Testing Source Code by Using Multi PRADEEP UDUPA1.pdf','',1,'','','','',''),(1485,'62','A Study of Clustering Taxonomy for Big Data Mining with Optimized Clustering MapReduce Model ','Kamlesh Kumar Pandey and Diwakar Shukla','A Study of Clustering Taxonomy for Big Data Mining with Optimized Clustering MapReduce Model KAMLESH KUMAR PANDEY1.pdf','',1,'','','','',''),(1486,'62','Review of Biogas Production from various substrates and Co-substrates through different Anaerobic Reactor','Harshal Warade , Ramesh Daryapurkar and P.B. Nagarnaik','Review of Biogas Production from various substrates1.pdf','',1,'','','','',''),(1487,'62','Evaluation of Polyphenolic Content and Anti-oxidant Potential of Poly-herbal\r\nFormulation ','Rajesh Saini , Awadhesh Kumar Mishra , Sunil Kumar Mishra and Kavindra NathTiwari *','Evaluation of Polyphenolic Content and Antioxidant Potential of Poly herbal1.pdf','',1,'','','','',''),(1488,'62','Time based Ontology Prediction of Userâ€™s Preferences using Structural Balance\r\nTheory','M. Kamaladevi, V. Venkataramanand K.R. Sekar','Time based Ontology Prediction of Userâ€™s Preferences using Structural Balance Theory K.R. SEKAR.pdf','',1,'','','','',''),(1489,'62','Effect of Polypropylene Fiber on Properties of Bagasse Ash-Cement Stabilized\r\nClay Soil ','Tarun Sharma and Rohin Kaushik','Effect of Polypropylene Fiber on Properties of Bagasse Ash-Cement Stabilized Clay Soil TARUN SHARMA.pdf','',1,'','','','',''),(1490,'62','Behavior of Steel Fibre Reinforced Concrete subjected to Impact Loads','Nithin Dâ€™souza, Nayana N. Patil and H.M. Rajashekhar Swamy \r\n','Behavior of Steel Fibre Reinforced Concrete subjected to Impact Loads NAYANA PATIL.pdf','',1,'','','','',''),(1491,'62','VANET Data Collection through Cluster Based Technique ','Rahul Kumar Chawda and Ghanshyam Thakur','VANET Data Collection through Cluster Based Technique RAHUL KUMAR CHAWDA.pdf','',1,'','','','',''),(1492,'62','Design and Comparative Analysis of CNTFET based Tristate Buffer for\r\nMultiplexer','Hasan Shakir , Prachi Gupta , M. Nizamuddin , Shaheen Khan and Naseem Rao','Design and Comparative Analysis of CNTFET based Tristate Buffer for Multiplexer HASAN SHAKIR.pdf','',1,'','','','',''),(1493,'62','A Novel Method Applied to the Production of Biodiesel from Neem Oil ','A. Balasundaram and A. Cyril','A Novel Method Applied to the Production of Biodiesel from Neem Oil A BALASUNDARAM.pdf','',1,'','','','',''),(1494,'62','A Novel Block Chain-Based Approach for Secure Handoff in WMN with Reduced Authentication Delay ','Suraj Malik and Rakesh Kumar Singh','A Novel Block Chain Based Approach for Secure Handoff in WMN with Reduced Authentication Delay SURAJ MALIK.pdf','',1,'','','','',''),(1495,'62','Mathematical Modelling and Parametric Optimization of EDM for Tool Wear Rate of Hybrid Aluminum Metal Matrix Composite Reinforced with SiCp and Grp','Harish Kumar Garg , Rajesh Kumar , Alakesh Manna and Shubham Sharma','Mathematical Modelling and Parametric Optimization of EDM for Tool Wear Rate of Hybrid Aluminum Metal Matrix Composite Reinforced with SiCp and Grp HARISH KUMAR GARG.pdf','',1,'','','','',''),(1496,'62','Application of ICT in the College Libraries of Assam ','Prafulla Kumar Mahanta and Dhrubajit Das','Application of ICT in the College Libraries of Assam PRAFULLA MAHANTA11.pdf','',1,'','','','',''),(1497,'62','Closed Loop Control of CSC converter Using PI and Fuzzy Logic Controllers for DC Motor Driven Applications ','V.S. Prasadarao K. , G. Tabita and P. Srihari','Closed Loop Control of CSC converter Using PI and Fuzzy Logic Controllers for DC Motor Driven Applications V S PRASADARAO K.pdf','',1,'','','','',''),(1498,'28','Status of Women in the Vedic Literature with special reference to Rig-Veda ','Puspa Saikia ','Status of Women in the Vedic Literature with special reference to Rig-Veda PUSHPA AIKIA1.pdf','',1,'','','','',''),(1499,'39','Role of Environment in Vedic Literature','Puspa Saikia','Role of Environment in Vedic literature PUSPA SAIKIA.pdf','',1,'','','','',''),(1500,'62','Ensuring the Health and Productivity of Pigs with New Immunotropic\r\nPreparations','Dmitry Anatolyevich Nikitin , Vladimir Grigoryevich Semenov , Lyubov Pavlovna Gladkikh , Vladimir Grigoryevich Tyurin , Andrey Georgievich Koshchaev , Roman Vladimirovich Chus and Sergey Viktorovich Shabunin','Ensuring the Health and Productivity of Pigs with New Immunotropic Preparations DEMITRY.pdf','',1,'','','','',''),(1501,'62','Review of Blind Deconvolution Technique for Image Restoration','Ramteke Mamta G. and Maitreyee Dutta','Review of Blind Deconvolution Technique for Image Restoration RAMTEKE MAMTA.pdf','',1,'','','','',''),(1502,'62','Event Location Estimation in Binary Wireless Sensor Network ','Vaishali S. Deshmukh, Arvind V. Deshpande and Parikshit N. Mahalle','Event Location Estimation in Binary Wireless Sensor Network VAISHALI S.pdf','',1,'','','','',''),(1503,'3','A Study on a Common Fixed Point Theorem ','S. Vijaya Lakshmi ','A Study on a Common Fixed Point Theorem S Vijaya Lakshmi.pdf','',1,'','','','',''),(1504,'62','Convolutional Neural Network for No Reference and Full Reference using Image\r\nQuality Assessment','S. Sathyamoorthy and M. Dharmalingam','Convolutional Neural Network for No Reference and Full Reference using Image Quality Assessment S. SATHYAMOORTHY.pdf','',1,'','','','',''),(1505,'62','Diversity of Small Indigenous Freshwater Fish Species (SIFs) in Assam;\r\nNutritional Contents and Medicinal Importance: A Review','Pallwabee Duarah and Kalyan Das','Diversity of Small Indigenous Freshwater Fish Species (SIFs) in Assam_ Nutritional Contents and Medicinal Importance A Review PALLWABEE DUARAH.pdf','',1,'','','','',''),(1506,'62','Prediction of Currency Exchange Rate using Short Term Memory Networks ','S. Palanivel, S. Ramya, K.R. Sekar and D. Manivannan ','Prediction of Currency Exchange Rate using Short Term Memory Networks -K.R. SEKAR.pdf','',1,'','','','',''),(1507,'63','The Influence of Knowledge Management on the Smart Government\r\nEffectiveness: An Empirical Study in UAE ','Saif Albreiki, Ali Ameenand Amiya Bhaumik','The Influence of Knowledge Management on the Smart Government Effectiveness An Empirical Study in UAE Amiya Bhaumik.pdf','',1,'','','','',''),(1508,'63','Effect of Total Quality Management Practices in Private Organization in the UAE','Hassan AlDarmaki, Amiya Bhaumik and Ibrahim AlRajawy','Effect of Total Quality Management Practices in Private Organization in the UAE Hassan AlDarmaki.pdf','',1,'','','','',''),(1509,'63','Impact of Internal Government Efficiency and Service Delivery Infrastructure\r\non the Smart Government Effectiveness in UAE','Saif Albreiki, Ali Ameen and Amiya Bhaumik ','Impact of Internal Government Efficiency and Service Delivery Infrastructure on the Smart Government Effectiveness in UAE Amiya Bhaumik.pdf','',1,'','','','',''),(1510,'63','Effect of Entrepreneurial Orientation on Organizational Performance within Abu Dhabi National Oil Company','Talal Alshehhi, Amiya Bhaumik and Ahmed Alshibami ','Effect of Entrepreneurial Orientation on Organizational Performance within Abu Dhabi National Oil Company Talal Alshehhi.pdf','',1,'','','','',''),(1511,'63','Influence of Overall Quality and Innovativeness on Actual Usage of Smart\r\nGovernment: An Empirical Study on the UAE Public Sector','Fahad Al-Obthani and Ali Ameen','Influence of Overall Quality and Innovativeness on Actual Usage of Smart Government An Empirical Study on the UAE Public Sector Fahad Al Obthani.pdf','',1,'','','','',''),(1512,'63','Influence of Project Management on Organizational Efficiency and Effectiveness: Empirical Study on UAE Private Sector','Hassan AlDarmaki, Amiya Bhaumik and Ibrahim AlRajawy','Influence of Project Management on Organizational Efficiency and Effectiveness Empirical Study on UAE Private Sector Hassan AlDarmaki.pdf','',1,'','','','',''),(1513,'63','Ecoethical Cultural Dynamism: An Educational Tyranny','Sushma Juyal Anthwal and Prof. (Dr). Rajesh Bahuguna ','Ecoethical Cultural Dynamism An Educational Tyranny Sushma Juyal Anthwal.pdf','',1,'','','','',''),(1514,'62','Thermoelectric Based Solar Powered Refrigeration System ','Abhishek Sharma , Alka Bani Agrawal and Nitin Shrivastava','Thermoelectric Based Solar Powered Refrigeration System ABHISHEK SHARMA.pdf','',1,'','','','',''),(1515,'63','Women Prisoners and Human Rights: The Juxtaposition of Rights and Reality',' Avnish Bhatt and Prof.(Dr). Rajesh Bahuguna ','Women Prisoners and Human Rights The Juxtaposition of Rights and Reality Avnish Bhatt.pdf','',1,'','','','',''),(1516,'10','Transformation of I â€“ Function and H-Function for Rational\r\nParameters','Pankaj Jain and V. P. Saxena ','Transformation of I â€“ Function and H-Function for Rational Parameters PANKAJ JAIN DR VP SAXENA.pdf','',1,'','','','',''),(1517,'10','The Squares in Generalized Lucas Sequence ','G. Upender Reddy','The Squares in Generalized Lucas Sequence DR. G UPENDER REDDY.pdf','',1,'','','','',''),(1518,'62','Non-Performing Asset of Public and Private Sector Banks in India: A Descriptive\r\nStudy ','Sushendra Kumar Misraand Rohit Rana','Non-Performing Asset of Public and Private Sector Banks in India A Descriptive Study SUSHENDRA KUMAR MISRA.pdf','',1,'','','','',''),(1519,'62','Refrigeration and the Shelf Life of Oral Cephalosporin Powder for Suspension\r\nDosage Form: Review and Proposal ','Saravana Perumal Govindan , Senthamarai, R and Anbarasu, K ','Refrigeration and the Shelf Life of Oral Cephalosporin Powder for Suspension Dosage Form Review and Proposal Saravana Perumal Govindan.pdf','',1,'','','','',''),(1520,'62','Applying â€œFuzzy Techniquesâ€ in Construction Project Management ','Savita Sharma and Pradeep K. Goyal','Applying â€œFuzzy Techniquesâ€ in Construction Project Management SAVITA SHARMA.pdf','',1,'','','','',''),(1521,'62','Factors Influencing Consumer Choice of Celebrity Endorsements and their\r\nConsequent Effect on Purchase Decision','Sushendra Kumar Misra , Preeti Mehra and Balpreet Kaur','Factors Influencing Consumer Choice of Celebrity Endorsements and their Consequent Effect on Purchase Decision SUSHENDRA KUMAR MISRA.pdf','',1,'','','','',''),(1522,'64','Design of Survival-Hazard and Mathematical Model for High Osmolarity Glycerol\r\nProtein using Parametric and Nonparametric Methods ','Shruti Jain ','Design of Survival-Hazard and Mathematical Model for High Osmolarity Glycerol Protein using Parametric and Nonparametric Methods SHRUTI JAIN.pdf','',1,'','','','',''),(1523,'64','Economic-Driven Strategies for Virtual Machine Allocation in Cloud Data Center','Avneesh Vashistha , and Pushpneel Verma','Economic-Driven Strategies for Virtual Machine Allocation in Cloud Data Center AVNEESH VASHISTHA.pdf','',1,'','','','',''),(1524,'64','Differentiation Strategy in Private Banking Services in India: Identifying Role of\r\nTangible Factors & Traits Affecting Service Levels ','Ashish Arora, Sushendra Kumar Misra and Rashim Verma','Differentiation Strategy in Private Banking Services in India Identifying Role of Tangible Factors & Traits Affecting Service Levels SUSHENDRA KUMAR MISRA.pdf','',1,'','','','',''),(1525,'62','Two Storage Facilities Single Vendor Single Buyer Supply Chain Different\r\nDeterioration Rates Inventory Model under Linear Demand','R.D. Patel and Jiten Patel','Two Storage Facilities Single Vendor Single Buyer Supply Chain Different Deterioration Rates Inventory Model under Linear Demand RAMAN PATEL.pdf','',1,'','','','',''),(1526,'62','An Efficient Mammogrammic Image Retrieval using Ring-based Classification ','Sonia Jenifer Rayen and R. Subhashini','An Efficient Mammogrammic Image Retrieval using Ring-based Classification SONIA JENIFER RAYEN.pdf','',1,'','','','',''),(1527,'62','Revisiting Analytical-Approximate Solution of Time Fractional Rosenau-Hyman\r\nEquation via Fractional Reduced Differential Transform Method ','Pankaj Ramani, Arif M. Khan and D.L. Suthar','Revisiting Analytical-Approximate Solution of Time Fractional Rosenau-Hyman Equation via Fractional Reduced Differential Transform Method ARIF M.pdf','',1,'','','','',''),(1528,'62','Consumer Expenditure Pattern Study on Environmental Goods ','Santosh Sharma , Sandeep Kumar, and Manish Bansal','Consumer Expenditure Pattern Study on Environmental Goods SANTOSH SHARMA.pdf','',1,'','','','',''),(1529,'62','Emissions Characteristics of Biogas-Diesel Fuel Blends in Compression Ignition\r\nEngine ','Jatinder Singla, Sunil Kumar Mahla*, Geetesh Goga and Neeru Singla3','Emissions Characteristics of Biogas-Diesel Fuel Blends in Compression Ignition Engine SUNIL KUMAR MAHLA.pdf','',1,'','','','',''),(1530,'62','Social Sustainability of Residential Neighbourhood: A Conceptual Exploration','Vineet Shrivastava and Jagdish Singh','Social Sustainability of Residential Neighbourhood A Conceptual Exploration VINEET SHRIVASTAVA.pdf','',1,'','','','',''),(1531,'62','Impact of Internal Branding on Employeesâ€™ Job Satisfaction, Brand Commitment\r\nand Brand Citizenship Behaviour ','Nagaraju Kolla, R. Vara Prasad and Geetha Devi K.V.','Impact of Internal Branding on Employeesâ€™ Job Satisfaction, Brand Commitment and Brand Citizenship Behaviour NAGARAJU.pdf','',1,'','','','',''),(1532,'65','Comparison of aboveground biomass estimation in two forest types using different allometric equations\r\n','Florence Roy P SalvaÃ±a1,2,3*, Crystal Joy J. Dacutan, Cherie C Mangaoang, Bryan Lloyd P. BretaÃ±a','_JNBR_8(3)_2019.pdf','',1,'','','','',''),(1533,'65','New locality record of Common Skink Eutropis carinata (Schneider, 1801) in urban area of Dhaka, Bangladesh','Naim Khandakar, Kamrun Nahar Jeny, Md. Soab Ali\r\n','2_JNBR_8(3)_2019.pdf','',1,'','','','',''),(1534,'60','A Preliminary Survey of Bird Communities around Jammu (Jammu & Kashmir)','Asha Sohil and Neeraj Sharma','A Preliminary Survey of Bird Communities around Jammu NEERAJ SHARMA.pdf','',1,'Landscape heterogeneity strongly influences the bird community structure. With the objectives to understand the richness, assemblages and guild structure of the bird communities in the contagious habitats around Jammu, we carried out the organized avian surveys from January 2017 to December 2017. During this study, 207 species of birds belonging to 63 families and 16 orders were recorded from six contrasting habitats (aquatic and terrestrial). Order Passeriformes (35 families) and family Muscicapidae (17 species) numerically dominated the area. The protected areas and semi disturbed landscapes revealed higher species richness while the moderately disturbed aquatic habitats reflected higher dominance. Based on our observations, 89 birds were found migratory and 10 as globally threatened. The baseline information so generated will prove handy in devising conservation and management plan for birds around Jammu.','Bird communities, assemblages, guild structure, contrasting habitats, globally threatened, management plan.','Landscape heterogeneity strongly influences the bird community structure. With the objectives to understand the richness, assemblages and guild structure of the bird communities in the contagious habitats around Jammu, we carried out the organized avian surveys from January 2017 to December 2017. During this study, 207 species of birds belonging to 63 families and 16 orders were recorded from six contrasting habitats (aquatic and terrestrial). Order Passeriformes (35 families) and family Muscicapidae (17 species) numerically dominated the area. The protected areas and semi disturbed landscapes revealed higher species richness while the moderately disturbed aquatic habitats reflected higher dominance. Based on our observations, 89 birds were found migratory and 10 as globally threatened. The baseline information so generated will prove handy in devising conservation and management plan for birds around Jammu.','-','Sohil, Asha and Sharma, Neeraj (2019). A preliminary Survey of Bird Communities around Jammu, (Jammu & Kashmir). Biological Forum â€“ An International Journal, 11(2): 27-49.'),(1535,'60','Phytoplankton as an Indicator of the River Water Quality: A case Study in the Tail race of River Dikhow, Assam, India','Bristi Dutta','Phytoplankton as an Indicator of the River Water Quality A case Study in the Tail race of River Dikhow, Assam, India BRISTI DUTTA.pdf','',1,'The present study was carried out for three consecutive years (2011-2014). Investigations were carried out on the diversity and percentage composition of phytoplankton species in the tail race of Dikhow river. Dikhow is a southern tributary of the mighty river Brahmaputra originating from Naga Hills. Phytoplankton diversity was used as an indicator to assess the water quality of the river. The aim of this study was to understand the pollution status of the river and analyze the diversity and distribution pattern of phuytoplankton which was influenced by the rainfall. During the study, four groups of phytoplankton were recorded which belong to group Chlorophyceae, Euglanophyceae, Bacillariophyceae and Myxophyceae. Bacillariophyceae and Chlorophyceae were more abundant both qualitatively and quantitatively. The percentage distribution of Bacillariophyceae and chlorophyceae was found to be 50% and 32.37 % respectively. Abundance of Bacillariophyceae with 50% relative occurrence could','Phytoplankton, Brahmaputra, Bacillariophyceae, Chlorophyceae, Euglanophyceae','It is summarized from the present study that the down stream of Dikhow river is polluted. In the present study phytoplankton diversity was dominated by diatoms. Diatoms respond to a certain number of environmental and biological variables. Because of their sensitivity, they may act as reliable bioindicators. They act as pollution indicator in the present study. On the other hand the diversity indices also indicate the pollution level of the river. Bacillariophyceae and Chlorophyceae dominance indicate organic pollution in the river. The effect of anthropogenic stress was also identified through the phytoplankton structure and diversity study. Exposure of organic pollution was identified during the study, Hence certain anthropogenic activities near the river should be regulated to ensure its protection and conservation. Which may contribute to national development and improvement of water resources','-','Dutta, B. (2019). Phytoplankton as an Indicator of the River Water Quality: A case Study in the Tail race of River Dikhow, Assam, India. Biological Forum â€“ An International Journal, 11(2): 50-55.'),(1536,'62','Mapping Butterfly Hotspots: A New Approach to Identify Prime Butterfly Areas of Meghalaya, India ','Atanu Bora , Laishram Ricky Meitei and Sachin Sharma','Mapping Butterfly Hotspots A New Approach to Identify Prime Butterfly Areas of Meghalaya India ATANU BORA.pdf','',1,'','','','',''),(1537,'62','Applications of Information Measures to the Theory of Coding ','Ruchi Handa *, Rajesh Kumar Narula and C.P. Gandhi','Applications of Information Measures to the Theory of Coding RUCHI HANDA.pdf','',1,'','','','',''),(1538,'62','Convolution Neural Network based Fire Detection in Surveillance Videos ','A. Umamakeswari , Venkatesh Prasad , Vivek Pothina and S.M. Narendran','Convolution Neural Network based Fire Detection in Surveillance Videos A UMAMAKESWARI.pdf','',1,'','','','',''),(1539,'64','The Project Method in Teaching Special Disciplines to Students of Technical\r\nUniversities ','Ludmila Mikhailovna Kalyanova','The Project Method in Teaching Special Disciplines to Students of Technical Universities LUDMILA MIKHAILOVNA KALYANOVA.pdf','',1,'','','','',''),(1540,'64','Assessing How Thermodynamic Properties Varies for Ethyl Acetate and NPentanol System at Dualistic Temperatures ','Soujanya Kaki','Assessing How Thermodynamic Properties Varies for Ethyl Acetate and N Pentanol System at Dualistic Temperatures DR K SOUJANYA.pdf','',1,'','','','',''),(1541,'64','Predictive Mining Model for Transactional Data Pattern using Probabilistic\r\nBased Decision Tree Model ','M.I. Thariq Hussan and H.S. Saini','Predictive Mining Model for Transactional Data Pattern using Probabilistic Based Decision Tree Model M I THARIQ HUSSAN.pdf','',1,'','','','',''),(1542,'64','Operational Efficiency of Indian Banking Sector- A Comparative Analysis ','Meraj Banu','Operational Efficiency of Indian Banking Sector A Comparative Analysis MERAJ BANU.pdf','',1,'','','','',''),(1543,'62','A Method for Diagnosis of Tuberculosis using Combined Blur and Affine Moment Invariants on Cavity Image','K. Durga Prasad and M.B.R Murthy','A Method for Diagnosis of Tuberculosis using Combined Blur and Affine Moment Invariants on Cavity Image.pdf','',1,'','','','',''),(1544,'62','Specification Based Intrusion Detection Mechanism for Mitigating Sinkhole\r\nAttack in Wireless Sensor Networks ','Ranjeeth Kumar Sundararajan , Narendran, S.M and Umamakeswari, A','Specification Based Intrusion Detection Mechanism for Mitigating Sinkhole Attack in Wireless Sensor Networks UMAMAKESWARI 1.pdf','',1,'','','','',''),(1545,'62','Histopathological Image Classification Using Deep Learning Techniques','K. Sai Prasad and Rajender Miryala','Histopathological Image Classification Using Deep Learning Techniques RAJENDER MIRYALA.pdf','',1,'','','','',''),(1546,'64','Odonate (Dragonflies and Damselflies) Diversity as a Marker of Water Quality in Sivasagar, Assam, India','Atanu Bora','Odonate Dragonflies and Damselflies Diversity as a Marker of Water Quality in Sivasagar Assam India ATANU BORA.pdf','',1,'','','','',''),(1547,'64','A Logistic Regression with Recursive Feature Elimination Model for Breast\r\nCancer Diagnosis','Tina Elizabeth Mathew','A Logistic Regression with Recursive Feature Elimination Model for Breast Cancer Diagnosis TINA ELIZABETH MATHEW.pdf','',1,'','','','',''),(1548,'60','New record of Duttaphrynus scaber (Schneider, 1799), the Schneiderâ€™s Toad (Family: Bufonidae) from West Bengal, India','Ardhendu Das Mahapatra and Sudipta Kumar Ghorai','New record of Duttaphrynus scaber Schneider 1799 the Schneider Toad Family Bufonidae from West Bengal India ARDHENDU DAS MAHAPATRA 1.pdf','',1,'We found a small-sized toad species under genus Duttaphrynus in Purba and Paschim Medinipur district, West Bengal from July to August 2018. After the analysis of a few morphological characters, this specimen identified as Duttaphrynus scaber (Schneider, 1799). It is the first state record for this species from West Bengal. Morphometric data for the species identification and habitat characteristics are provided.','Duttaphrynus scaber; habitat; microhabitat; morphometric; species; paddy fields; temperature','We found a small-sized toad species under genus Duttaphrynus in Purba and Paschim Medinipur district, West Bengal from July to August 2018. After the analysis of a few morphological characters, this specimen identified as Duttaphrynus scaber (Schneider, 1799). It is the first state record for this species from West Bengal. Morphometric data for the species identification and habitat characteristics are provided.','-','Mahapatra, A.D. and Ghorai, S.K. (2019). New record of Duttaphrynus scaber (Schneider, 1799), the Schneiderâ€™s Toad (Family: Bufonidae) from West Bengal, India. Biological Forum â€“ An International Journal, 11(2): 56-60.'),(1550,'64','Genes Expression Classification using Improved Deep Learning Method ','Rajit Nair and Amit Bhagat','Genes Expression Classification using Improved Deep Learning Method RAJIT NAIR.pdf','',1,'','','','',''),(1551,'64','Calculation of Indicators of Investment Attractiveness of the Region ','Elena Vorobyova , Diana Burkaltseva , Lyudmila Borsch , Oleg Blazhevich , Olga Guk , Vlasta Shalneva,','Calculation of Indicators of Investment Attractiveness of the Region ELENA VOROBYOVA.pdf','',1,'','','','',''),(1552,'64','Recent Advances of Nanoindentation in High Entropy Alloys','Sushil Kumar and Satpal Sharma','IJET-RT-710-8-2019-NANO-SUSHIL KUMAR.pdf','',1,'','','','',''),(1553,'64','The Influence of Succinic Acid on the Kinetics of the Atmospheric Oxidation of\r\nDissolved SO2 Catalysed by Co2O3 ','H. Sharma , A.K. Sharma , M. Kumar and D.S.N. Prasad','The Influence of Succinic Acid on the Kinetics of the Atmospheric Oxidation of Dissolved SO2 Catalysed by Co2O3 AK SHARMA.pdf','',1,'','','','',''),(1554,'64','Simulation of Self-balanced based Step-Up Switched Capacitor Nine Level\r\nInverter with MCPWM Scheme ','Shaik Gouse Basha and M. Venkatesan','Simulation of Self-balanced based Step Up Switched Capacitor Nine Level Inverter with MCPWM Scheme SHAIK GOUSE BASHA.pdf','',1,'','','','',''),(1555,'64','A Two â€“ Stage DEA - OLS Approach for Analysing the Impact of Multi - Year Tariff Regulation on the Performance of Indian Electricity Distribution Utilities ','Pavan Khetrapal','A Two Stage DEA OLS Approach for Analysing the Impact of Multi Year Tariff Regulation on the Performance of Indian Electricity Distribution Utilities PAVAN KHETRAPAL.pdf','',1,'','','','',''),(1556,'64','Conventional Architecture of Jammu: An Analytical Review ','Anoop Kumar Sharma Rajeev Garg Arshia K. Hazarika','Conventional Architecture of Jammu An Analytical Review ANOOP KUMAR SHARMA.pdf','',1,'','','','',''),(1557,'64','Analysis of the Regional IT Services Market by Using Fuzzy Logic Methods ','Inna Vladimirovna Antokhonova, Valentina Borisovna Briukhanova and Oxana Andreevna Polukhina ','Analysis of the Regional IT Services Market by Using Fuzzy Logic Methods INNA VLADIMIROVNA ANTOKHONOVArevised.pdf','',1,'','','','',''),(1558,'64','Service Quality Gap with Special Focus on DISCOMs in India: An Empirical\r\nAssessment ','Rajbir Singh, Satpal and Sunita Saini','Service Quality Gap with Special Focus on DISCOMs in India An Empirical Assessment SUNITA SAINI.pdf','',1,'','','','',''),(1559,'64','Investigations on Performance and Emission Characteristics of Diesel Engine\r\nFuelled with Biogas and ethanol-Biodiesel-Diesel Blend ','Jatinder Singla , Sunil Kumar Mahla , Neeru Singla and Geetesh Goga','Investigations on Performance and Emission Characteristics of Diesel Engine Fuelled with Biogas and ethanol Biodiesel Diesel Blend JATINDER SINGLA1.pdf','',1,'','','','',''),(1560,'67','Econometric Estimation of Food Services Supply Factors ','Sazida Shakirova, Ekaterina Kadochnikova and Anna Lyzhova','Econometric Estimation of Food Services Supply Factors.pdf','',1,'','','','',''),(1561,'67','Modern Forms and Methods of Training Specialists for Economy ','Tatyana Anatolievna Snetkova , Sergey Eduardovich Markaryan and Tatyana Vasilievna Elsukova','Modern Forms and Methods of Training Specialists for Economy.pdf','',1,'','','','',''),(1562,'67','ABC-XYZ Analysis as a Key Tool for Optimizing Public Procurement Planning','Gulnaz Ilgizovna Khaliullina, Olga Vladimirovna Demyanova, Diaz Radykovich Kadyrov ','ABCXYZ Analysis as a Key Tool for Optimizing Public Procurement Planning.pdf','',1,'','','','',''),(1563,'67','Digitalization of Receivables Management ','Daniya Kamalovna Bikchantaeva, Pavel Anatolievich Samolyanov and Ilvira Ilinichna Stepanova','Digitalization of Receivables Management.pdf','',1,'','','','',''),(1564,'67','Formation of Organizational and Economic Mechanism of the Firm\'s Competitiveness Management','Ahmad Hassan Ahmad Ahmed ','Formation of Organizational and Economic Mechanism of the Firms.pdf','',1,'','','','',''),(1565,'67','Imitation Modeling as a Tool of Analytical Substantiation of Sales Policy','Irina Atyunkina and Alexey Kirpikov','Imitation Modeling as a Tool of Analytical Substantiation of Sales Policy.pdf','',1,'','','','',''),(1566,'67','Features of Managing Sources of Financing Organizations in Post-crisis Conditions ','Alina Marselevna Khamidulina and Gulshat Talgatovna Guzelbaeva','Features of Managing Sources of Financing Organizations in.pdf','',1,'','','','',''),(1567,'67','Multiâ€“Criteria Evaluation in Terms of Slovak Local Government-Case\r\nStudy of Trencin Region ','Askar Nailevich Mustafin and Roman Vavrek','Multi Criteria Evaluation in Terms of Slovak Local Government Case.pdf','',1,'','','','',''),(1568,'67','Tax Regulation of the Russian Economy Real Sector Crediting ','Orlova, M.E., Adigamova, F.F., Nasyrova, V.I. and Salmina, S.V.','Tax Regulation of the Russian Economy Real Sector Crediting .pdf','',1,'','','','',''),(1569,'67','The Economic Content of the Russian-Iranian Peace Treaties','Marina Maratovna Imasheva, Albina Marselevna Imamutdinova and Elmira Ildarovna Nazmieva','The Economic Content of the Russian-Iranian Peace Treaties.pdf','',1,'','','','',''),(1570,'67','The Future of Digital Technology in Russia: Blockchain as One of the Priority\r\nDirections of Development','Ekaterina Anatolevna Grigoreva , Liliya Fuatovna Garifova and Elvira Anasovna Polovkina','11-17.pdf','',1,'','','','',''),(1571,'67','Internal Fraud as a Threat to the Liquidity of a Commercial Organization ','Diana Shamilevna Usanova1, Svetlana Sergeevna Meleshenko and Daniil Vsevolodovich Krivin\r\n','12-18 r.pdf','',1,'','','','',''),(1572,'67','Theoretical and Methodological Foundations of International Capital Movement and\r\nthe Main Tendencies of its Regulation\r\n','Z.K. Radjabova, O.R. Radjabov, P.M. Kamalova, M.M. Osmanov, M.A. Murtuzalieva, U.GG. Magomedova ','13-20.pdf','',1,'','','','',''),(1573,'67','Organizational Factors of Labor Productivity Growth: A Statistical Aspect ','Ekaterina Anatolevna Grigoreva, Elvira Anasovna Polovkina and Liliya Kabirovna Astafyeva','14-21.pdf','',1,'','','','',''),(1574,'67','Analysis of the Efficiency of Companyâ€™s Intangible Assets Management ','Elvina Fagimovna Gazimova, AigylIl Shatovna Sabirova, Elena Sergeevna Zakharova and RustemIldarovich Khabetdinov','15-3.pdf','',1,'','','','',''),(1575,'67','Causal Relationship between Human Capital and Economic Growth in\r\nEuropean Countries (EU-28): Panel Analysis ','Abdelmajied Fathy E.Y. and Lenar N Safijllin\r\n','16-6.pdf','',1,'','','','',''),(1576,'67','The Use of Arima Model in Forecasting Accounts Payable','EkaterinaIvanovna Kadochnikova, Tatiana ValeryevnaErina and Shamil Gadelevich Zainullin','17-13.pdf','',1,'','','','',''),(1577,'67','Econometric Assessment of the Factors of Enterprise Receivables ','Ekaterina Ivanovna Kadochnikova, Natalya Borisovna Semenikhina and Alina Nailovna Garifullina','18-14.pdf','',1,'','','','',''),(1578,'67','Formation of an Optimal Road Network in Large Cities and Agglomerations','Dmitry Vladimirovich Rodnyansky, Albina Rishatovna Mordvinova, Ivan Nikolaevich Makarov and Alina Marselevna Khamidulina','19-22.pdf','',1,'','','','',''),(1579,'67','Methodical Approaches to the Formalized Assessment of Developmental\r\nRegularities of Blockchain Technologies in Regions of Russia','Marat Rashitovich Safiullin, Aliya Aidarovna Abdukaeva and Leonid Alekseevich Elshin','20-24-r.pdf','',1,'','','','',''),(1580,'67','Ð¡risis Management in Small Business','Gulnara Raisovna Chumarina , Margarita Andreevna Mikhailova, and Guzel Azatovna Abulkhanova','21-26.pdf','',1,'','','','',''),(1581,'67','Formation of a Method for Determination of a Commercial Credit Bank Rating','Dilyara Farilovna Zakirova, Elvira Farilovna Zakirova and Ekaterina Alekseevna Potapova\r\n','22-27.pdf','',1,'','','','',''),(1582,'67','Evaluating the Quality Management of Innovation in the Kazan\r\nFederal University: The Sociological Research Results ','Vladimir Yurevich Dubrovin, Aidar Robertovich Zakirov, Aigul Raisovna Zaripova and Solovarova Yulia Nikolaevna','23-29.pdf','',1,'','','','',''),(1583,'67','Ensuring Competitiveness of Advertising in the Organization\r\nManagement System ','Gulnara Raisovna Chumarina , Margarita Andreevna Mikhailova and Yelena Anatolyevna Andreeva','24-28.pdf','',1,'','','','',''),(1584,'67','Internal and External Conditions of GR-Strategy Implementation ','Aidar Robertovich Zakirov, Aigul Raisovna Zaripova and Vladimir Yurevich Dubrowin','25-30.pdf','',1,'','','','',''),(1585,'67','Marketing of Impressions as the Tool of Bank Client Loyalty Increase','Elvira Ravilevna Tagirova and Mikhail Georgievich Pureliani','26-31.pdf','',1,'','','','',''),(1586,'67','Organizational and Economic Mechanism of Improving the Efficiency of Grain\r\nProduction at the Regional Level ','Alina R. Battalova, Oksana A. Ignatjeva, Farit N. Mukhametgaliev and Landish F. Sitdikova','27-32.pdf','',1,'','','','',''),(1587,'67','The Influence of a Professional Accountant\'s Judgment on the Financial Performance of Organization','Lidiya I. Kulikova, Albina R. Gubaidullina and Tatyana V. Elsukova','28-33.pdf','',1,'','','','',''),(1588,'67','Management of Labor Conflicts in Conditions of Organizational Changes (for Example, Creative Organization) ','Aigul Airatovna Gimadeeva and Rustem Ilhamovich Zalyaev','29-35.pdf','',1,'','','','',''),(1589,'67','The Relationship between Social Capital and Opportunistic Behavior ','Nataliya Sergeevna SeliverstovÐ° and Olga Vitalievna Grigoryeva','30-37.pdf','',1,'','','','',''),(1590,'63','Factors Influencing â€˜Glass Ceilingâ€™ Theory on Female Administrative People in\r\nMalaysia ','Sharif Uddin Ahmed Rana and Valliappan Raju','Factors Influencing.pdf','',1,'','','','',''),(1591,'63','Intelligent Automation, Planning & Implementation: A Review of Constraints ','Sushant Kumar Vishnoi , Anuj Tripathi1 and Teena Bagga','Intelligent Automation.pdf','',1,'','','','',''),(1592,'63','Technology Driven Human Resource Measurementâ€“A Strategic Perspective ','Hargovind Kakkar and Sanjay Kaushik','Technology Driven.pdf','',1,'','','','',''),(1593,'64','A Reduced Switch Count Multilevel Module Multilevel Converter Topology ','Karri V.V. Satyanarayana ','A Reduced Switch Count Multilevel Module Multilevel Converter Topology KARRI V V SATYANARAYANA.pdf','',1,'','','','',''),(1594,'64','Future Prediction using Twitter Mood Analysis ',' A. Thilagavathy, P. Kavitha, Veeram Reddy Deepak Reddy, Yadla Jaswanth and Rishi Tadavarthi','Future Prediction using Twitter Mood Analysis.pdf','',1,'','','','',''),(1595,'64','A Systematic review on Application based Parkinsonâ€™s disease Detection\r\nSystems ','Angana Saikia1, Vinayak Majhi, Masaraf Hussain and Sudip Paul','A Systematic review on Application based Parkinsonâ€™s disease Detection Systems BIOMEDICAL-DR SUDIP PAUL.pdf','',1,'','','','',''),(1596,'64','Differential Antioxidative and Osmolytic Responses to Salt (NaCl) Stress among\r\nSeven Bhendi (Abelmoschus esculentus (L.) Moench) Varieties ','R. Desingh and K. Manikandan','Differential Antioxidative and Osmolytic Responses to Salt (NaCl) Stress among Seven Bhendi (Abelmoschus esculentus (L.) Moench) Varieties R DESINGH.pdf','',1,'','','','',''),(1597,'64','Virtual Machine Scheduling Strategies in Cloud Computing- A Review','S. Supreeth and Kiran Kumari Patil\r\n','Virtual Machine Scheduling Strategies in Cloud Computing- A Review SUPREETH S.pdf','',1,'','','','',''),(1598,'68','Non-Dyadic Wavelets Based Computational Technique for the investigation of\r\nBagley-Torvik Equations ','Harpreet Kaur , Ratesh Kumar and Geeta Arora','1 IJET-MTH-00048.pdf','',1,'','','','',''),(1599,'68','Study of Wave Propagation at Interface of Micropolar Elastic Solid and\r\nMicropolar Fluid Saturated Porous Solid ','N. Kumari , R.K. Poonia , P. Kumar and V. Kaliraman','2 IJET-MTH-00069.pdf','',1,'','','','',''),(1600,'68','A Statistical Analysis of Alienation and Academic Achievement in Relation to Sex','P. Sharma and S.K. Sharma','3 IJET-MTH-00051.pdf','',1,'','','','',''),(1601,'68','The Study of Anisotropic Model with Variable Cosmological Term','Reena Tandon and Parveen Tyagi\r\n','4 IJET-MTH-00027.pdf','',1,'','','','',''),(1602,'68','A Brief Review on Different Measures of Entropy ','Manpreet Kaur and G.S. Buttar\r\n','5 IJET-MTH-00082.pdf','',1,'','','','',''),(1603,'68','Statistical âˆ’Convergence for Double Sequences in Probabilistic Normed\r\nSpaces','Deepak Rawat, Reena, Meenakshi and Gursimran Kaur ','6 IJET-OTH1-00006.pdf','',1,'','','','',''),(1604,'68','Statistical âˆ’Convergence of Order in Intuitionistic Fuzzy Normed Spaces\r\n','Reena, Meenakshi and Tanvi Bansal ','7 IJET-MTH1-00036.pdf','',1,'','','','',''),(1605,'68','Influence of Irregularity and Rigid Boundary on Surface Wave Propagation under Initially Stressed Porous Medium ','R. K. Poonia , Sonu , V. Kaliraman and P. Kumar','8 IJET-MTH1-00031.pdf','',1,'','','','',''),(1606,'68','New Entropic Modeling for Discrete Probability Distributions ','Ruchi Handa*, Rajesh Kumar Narula and C.P. Gandhi','9 IJET-MTH1-00064.pdf','',1,'','','','',''),(1607,'68','Study of Rayleigh Waves in Transversely Isotropic Dual Phase Lag Thermoelasticity under Magnetic Field ','Bharti, Viren and Sangeeta Kumari','10 IJET-MTH1-00040.pdf','',1,'','','','',''),(1608,'60','Effects of Foliar Application of Selenium in Maize (Zea mays L.) under\r\nCadmium Toxicity ','Shahbaz Shafiq , Muhammad Adeel , Hassan Raza , Rashid Iqbal , Zohaib Ahmad , Muhammad Naeem , Muhammad Sheraz , Usman Ahmed and Umair Rasool Azmi','Effects of Foliar Application of Selenium in Maize Zea mays L under Cadmium Toxicity MUHAMMAD SHAFIQnew.pdf','',1,'Cadmium (Cd) is the most toxic element present in the soil, air and water that causes deleterious effects on the physico-chemical and antioxidant processes of maize plant. Selenium (Se) is an essential micronutrient for humans, animals and plants as it reduces the harmful effects of cadmium toxicity. The interactive effects of Se and Cd interactions on plant growth and metabolism are not fully clear. In the present study, we assessed whether Se could alleviate the toxic effects of Cd on growth and metabolism of maize. To measure the role of foliar application of selenium (Se) in mitigation of cadmium toxicity during vegetative growth in maize a pot experiment was conducted at research area of Regional Agriculture Research Institute, Bahawalpur by using complete randomized design (CRD) with three replications of maize. Cd was applied at the rate of 750 mg/kg sand and 1500 mg/kg sand after the completion of germination. However, foliar application of Se was applied at the rate of 0.2 mM,','cadmium toxicity, foliar application, maize, selenium,','We observed that Cd cause toxicity in Zea mayes L. and reduces the morphological, biochemical and antioxidant parameters when present in high concentrations, which ultimately turn down growth of the plant. While positive effects of Se foliar spray on the plant was found to be associated with Se-mediated regulation of physico-chemical and antioxidant processes. At treatment number T9 with high amount of Se and less Cd availability we found Se acting in antagonism toward Cd toxicity which normalizes the plant growth and metabolism. Moreover, foliar application of Selenium also increased the Se content in shoot, which may be exploited as a viable and effective approach to increase Se concentration in fodders.','-','Shafiq, S., Adeel, M., Raza, H., Iqbal, R., Ahmad, Z., Naeem, M., Sheraz, M., Ahmed, U. and Azmi, U.R. (2019). Effects of Foliar Application of Selenium in Maize (Zea Mays L.) under Cadmium Toxicity. Biological Forum -An International Journal, 11(2): 61-'),(1609,'64','The Use of Individual Mouthpiece with Tinidazole and Doripenem in Complex\r\nTreatment of Periodontal Diseases \r\n','Yulya Valer\'evna Telyanova, Galina Vladimirovna Emelina, Svetlana Yurievna Plotnikova,Petr Vladimirovich Ivanov and Elena Sergeevna Emelina','The Use of Individual Mouthpiece with Tinidazole and Doripenem in Complex Treatment of Periodontal Diseases YULYAVALER\'EVNATELYANOVA.pdf','',1,'','','','',''),(1610,'64','A Study of Factors Influencing Repurchase intention of Online Food Delivery in\r\nBangkok, Thailand ','Bhumiphat Gilitwala and Amit Kumar Nag','A Study of Factors Influencing Repurchase intention of Online Food Delivery in Bangkok, Thailand AMIT KUMAR NAG.pdf','',1,'','','','',''),(1611,'64','Electronic Personnel Documents as a Means of Protecting Employee Rights:\r\nChallenges and Opportunities ','Konstantin Nikolayevitch Kurkov, Aleksandr V. Melnichuk, Elena Vladimirovna Duplij,\r\nNatalia Fedorovna Bondaletova and Yevgeniy Valer\'yevich Bondaletov ','Electronic Personnel Documents as a Means of Protecting Employee Rights Challenges and Opportunities KONSTANTIN KURKOV.pdf','',1,'','','','',''),(1612,'64','Correlation between CXCL-motif-10 and IFN- Î³ on Hemodialysis Patients with\r\nHCV under Treatment ','Ali A. Dawood and Mahmood AA. Altobje','Correlation between CXCL-motif-10 and IFN- Î³ on Hemodialysis Patients with HCV under Treatment ALI A DAWOOD.pdf','',1,'','','','',''),(1613,'64','Consumer Opinion and Belief about Environmental Issues and Farming Practices\r\nin Punjab ','Santosh Sharma, Sandeep Kumar, and Manish Bansal\r\n','IJET-RT-888-10-19-SANTOSH SHARMA.pdf','',1,'','','','',''),(1614,'64','Analysing the Performance of Classification Algorithms on Diseases Datasets','E. Laxmi Lydia, N. Sharmil, K. Shankar and Andino Maseleno','Analysing the Performance of Classification Algorithms on Diseases Datasets LAXMI.pdf','',1,'','','','',''),(1615,'64','Online Shoppers Inclination towards a Shopping Website:\r\nA Study on Virtual Shopping Experience','Anjali Sharma and Sanjay Bahl','Online Shoppers Inclination towards a Shopping Website ANJALI SHARMA.pdf','',1,'','','','',''),(1616,'64','Semantic Rules based linguistic Computational Model of Sentiment Analysis ','Y. Sahu, G.S. Thakur and S. Dhyani','\r\nSemantic Rules based linguistic Computational Model of Sentiment Analysis Y SAHU.pdf','',1,'','','','',''),(1617,'64','Damping Characteristics of Composite Cylindrical Shells with & without\r\nLongitudinal Stiffeners','Sai Prasanna Kumar J. V. ','IJET-RT-751-9-2019-AE-Sai Prasanna Kumar J V.pdf','',1,'','','','',''),(1618,'64','Competitive Strategies for Unorganised Retail Business: Understanding\r\nStructure, Operations, and Profitability of Small Mom and Pop Stores in India ','Balkrishan Sangvikar, Ashutosh Kolte and Avinash Pawar','IJET-RT-906-10-2019-ASHUTOSH KOTLE.pdf','',1,'','','','',''),(1619,'65','Diverstity of Odonates (Insecta: Odonata) around\r\nSonegaon Lake, Nagpur, Maharashtra, India','Pawan U. Gajbe','JNBR_8(3)_2019.pdf','',1,'','','','',''),(1620,'68','Effect of Alienation on Adjustment of Undergraduate Level Students','P. Sharma and S.K. Sharma','Effect of Alienation on Adjustment of Undergraduate Level Students1.pdf','',1,'','','','',''),(1621,'68','Rigidity Effects on Surface Waves in Multilayered Media ','R. K. Poonia , K. Kharb and D. K. Madan','Rigidity Effects on Surface Waves in Multilayered Media2.pdf','',1,'','','','',''),(1622,'68','Evaluation of Stress - Strain Relation on Rotational Motion of a Rotating Disc ','Nishi Gupta, Shubham Goyal and Harjot Kaur','Evaluation of Stress Strain Relation on Rotational Motion of a Rotating Disc3.pdf','',1,'','','','',''),(1623,'68','Statistical âˆ’Convergence of Order in Probabilistic Normed Spaces','Meenakshi, Yalpa and Reena','Statistical Convergence of Order in Probabilistic Normed Spaces4.pdf','',1,'','','','',''),(1624,'68','Testing of n+1 Parameter from Unlike Load Sharing System ','D. Laxmi and S.K. Sharma ','Testing of Parameter from Unlike Load Sharing System5.pdf','',1,'','','','',''),(1625,'68','Comparative Assessment of Face Recognition Methods by the use of Artificial\r\nNeural Networks ','Jaspreet Kaur and Ashok Pal ','Comparative Assessment of Face Recognition Methods by the use of Artificial6.pdf','',1,'','','','',''),(1626,'68','Effect of Magnetic Field, Two-temperature, Dual Phase Lag and Initial Stress on\r\nthe Rayleigh Wave Propagation ','Guneet Garg, Sangeeta Kumari and Anurag','Effect of Magnetic Field Two-temperature Dual Phase Lag and Initial Stress on7.pdf','',1,'','','','',''),(1627,'68','Fixed Point Results in Parametric Metric Space ','Ritika Choudhary and Arun Kumar Garg','Fixed Point Results in Parametric Metric Space8.pdf','',1,'','','','',''),(1628,'68','Self-Comparison of Convergence Speed in Agarwal, Oâ€™Regan\r\nand Sahuâ€™s S-Iteration ','Naveen Kumar and Surjeet Singh Chauhan Gonder','Self Comparison of Convergence Speed in Agarwal ORegan9.pdf','',1,'','','','',''),(1629,'68','Fixed Point Theorems on Complete Metric Space','Simran Gupta and Arun Kumar Garg','Fixed Point Theorems on Complete Metric Space20.pdf','',1,'','','','',''),(1630,'67','Formation of Method for Assessing the Impact of Economic Sanctions on the Stability of the Russian Banking System ','Dilyara Farilovna Zakirova , Elvira Farilovna Zakirova , Safiullin Lenar Nailevich and Aliya Albertovna Ahmadullina','Formation of Method for Assessing the Impact1.pdf','',1,'','','','',''),(1631,'67','Priority Areas of Development of Agricultural Entrepreneurship in the Regions of the Russian Federation ','Alina R. Battalova , Ruslan Sh.Tukhvatullin , Farit N. Mukhametgaliev and Farida F. Mukhametgalieva','Priority Areas of Development of Agricultural2.pdf','',1,'','','','',''),(1632,'67','Fuzzy Forecast Approach to Estimation of Complex Engineering System\'s Acceptability ','Ilyas Idrisovich Ismagilov, Linar Aleksandrovich Molotov and Pavel Zinovev','Fuzzy Forecast Approach to Estimation3.pdf','',1,'','','','',''),(1633,'67','Management of University Innovation Potential in the Modern Reality of\r\nKazakhstan','Dilyara Shakirova , Elena Ivanov , Aliya Ye. Abaidilda and Aigul B. Maidyrova','Management of University Innovation4.pdf','',1,'','','','',''),(1634,'67','Interaction of the Banking and Real Economy Sectors in the Regional Aspect','Elvira Ildarovna Bulatova , Elvira Petrovna Duvalova , Julia Igorevna Duvalova and Aigul Rustemovna Khafizova','Interaction of the Banking and Real Economy5.pdf','',1,'','','','',''),(1635,'67','The Concept of Risk and its Essence, Problems in the Study of the\r\nConcept of Risk \r\n','Aidar Miralimovich Tufetulov and Dinara Damirovna Kuzmina','The Concept of Risk and its Essence6.pdf','',1,'','','','',''),(1636,'67','The Role of the Global Internet in the Life of a Modern Students of Tatarstan Russia','Margarita D. Mironova , Svetlana V. Markova , Yulia V. Seregina and Railya R. Kalimullina','The Role of the Global Internet in the Life7.pdf','',1,'','','','',''),(1637,'67','Tourist Directions and Routes of the Sacred and Pilgrims in the Ulyanovsk\r\nRegion','Elisaveta Valerevna Kuznecova , Rail Ravilovich Fahrutdinov and Bahtiar Fahrutdinov','Tourist Directions and Routes of the Sacred8.pdf','',1,'','','','',''),(1638,'67','Evaluation of the Effectiveness of the University Electronic Information and\r\nEducational Environment ','Adel Shamsiev and Evgeny Babin','Evaluation of the Effectiveness of the University9.pdf','',1,'','','','',''),(1639,'67','Pedagogical Design in the Training Courses Development\r\nProcess using Mind Mapping ','E.M. Ibragimova , L.T. Bakulina , M.G. Ibragimov and V.V. Dunaeva','Pedagogical Design in the Training10.pdf','',1,'','','','',''),(1640,'67','Social Human System as an Epistemological Problem of Complexity Theory','Javier Alberto Piloto Rodriguez and Evgeniya Mikhailovna Nikolaeva','Social Human System as an Epistemological11.pdf','',1,'','','','',''),(1641,'67','Improvement of Efficiency of Labor Capacity on the Example of Oil and Gas\r\nProcessing Enterprise ','Lenar Nailevich Safiullin and Albina Faridovna Mingazova','Improvement of Efficiency of Labor Capacity 12.pdf','',1,'','','','',''),(1642,'64','Power Efficiency Enhancement using Hybrid Techniques for OFDM','Rashmi N. and Mrinal Sarvagya','Power Efficiency Enhancement using Hybrid Techniques for OFDM RASHMI N.pdf','',1,'','','','',''),(1643,'64','Application of Machine Learning Models in Drug Discovery: A Review ','N. Priya and G. Shobana','Application of Machine Learning Models in Drug Discovery A Review N PRIYA.pdf','',1,'','','','',''),(1644,'64','Need of Multi-Hazard Risk Mitigation in Bihar','Satyanshu Kumar, Rajeev Garg and Anoop Kumar Sharma','Need of Multi-Hazard Risk Mitigation in Bihar SATYANSHU KUMAR.pdf','',1,'','','','',''),(1645,'64','Effective Power Quality of Grid Connected WECS Employing FLC Controllers ','Shivaji Bhukya and S. Prakash','Effective Power Quality of Grid Connected WECS Employing FLC Controllers SHIVAJI BHUKYA.pdf','',1,'','','','',''),(1646,'64','Neuro Fuzzy Based Dynamic Secure Routing Protocol for QoS Frameworks of\r\nMANET','Santosh Sahu and Sanjeev Sharma','Neuro Fuzzy Based Dynamic Secure Routing Protocol for QoS Frameworks of MANET SANTOSH SAHU.pdf','',1,'','','','',''),(1647,'64','Occurrence of Fungal Diseases on Aloe vera Plants in Gwalior, Madhya Pradesh,\r\nIndia ','Shubhi Avasthi, Ajay Kumar Gautam, Dheeraj Vasu and Rekha Bhadauria','Occurrence of Fungal Diseases on Aloe vera Plants in Gwalior, Madhya Pradesh, India AJAY KUMAR GAUTAM.pdf','',1,'','','','',''),(1648,'64','A Complicated Murder Case Solved with the Aid of Fingerprints','Abdulrahman Mohammed Obaid Almehiri1, Mohammad Ahmad Abdullah Ahmad AlSuwaidi1, Mohammed Thani Rashid Almarri1, Jassim Mohammed Abdullah Rashid1 and Bhoopesh Kumar Sharma2','A Complicated Murder Case Solved With the Aid of Fingerprints BHOOPESH_KUMAR_SHARMA.pdf','',1,'','','','',''),(1649,'64','Synthesis and Characterisation of Metal Complexes of 2-[(1-methyl-1H-Tetrazole5-yl)thio]-Nâ€™-[(1E)-4-methyl-1,3-thiazole-5 yl) Methylene] Acetohydrazide ','Akilandeswari J, Joseph Selvaraj S, and Saravanan D','AKHILA PREETA.pdf','',1,'','','','',''),(1650,'64','Peculiarities of Modelling Operation of a Business Venture \r\n','I.A. Kiseleva, M.S. Gasparian, E.N. Chernysheva, T.N. Voronkova and I.S. Androshina\r\n','Peculiarities of Modelling Operation of a Business Venture IRINA KISELEVA.pdf','',1,'','','','',''),(1651,'64','A Review of Two Decades of Deep Learning Hybrids for Financial Time Series\r\nPrediction ','M. Durairaj and B.H. Krishna Mohan\r\n','A Review of Two Decades of Deep Learning Hybrids for Financial Time Series Prediction 713.pdf','',1,'','','','',''),(1652,'64','Project Management of Organizations ','Lyudmila Vladimirovna Shubtsova, Valery Engelsovich Komov, Svetlana Aleksandrovna Zudenkova ,Antonina Pavlovna Sokolova, Elnara Agalievna Gozalova , Tatyana Viktorovna Ukhina and Irina Gennadyevna Doronkina','Project Management of Organizations LYUDMILA SHUBTSOVA.pdf','',1,'','','','',''),(1653,'64','Occupational Exposure to Extremely Low Frequency-Electromagnetic Fields\r\n(ELF-EMFS) and Light at Night (LAN) and Risk of Breast Cancer in Human\r\nSubjects','Kavitha Varak, Surender V., Ahuja Y. and Tiwari R.','Occupational Exposure to Extremely Low Frequency-Electromagnetic Fields (ELF-EMFS) and Light at Night (LAN) and Risk of Breast Cancer in Human Subjects KAVITHA VARAK.pdf','',1,'','','','',''),(1654,'64','The Gains of Group Entrepreneurship Development: Analyzing the Employment\r\nDimensions of Self Help Groups in India ','Balkrishan Sangvikar, Avinash Pawar and Ashutosh Kolte','The Gains of Group Entrepreneurship Development Analyzing the Employment Dimensions of Self Help Groups in India DR. ASHUTOSH KOLTE.pdf','',1,'','','','',''),(1655,'64','Gurmukhi Text Emotion Classification System using TF-IDF and N-gram Feature\r\nSet Reduced using APSO ','Ramandeep Kaur and Vijay Bhardwaj ','Gurmukhi Text Emotion Classification System using TF-IDF and N-gram Feature Set Reduced using APSO RAMANDEEP KAUR.pdf','',1,'','','','',''),(1656,'64','Elucidation of Structure of MALDI-TOF Peptide Fingerprint of Purified Microbial\r\nProtease and its use in Bioactive Dipeptide Precursor Synthesis',' Neha Thakur, Shagun Gupta, Rupak Nagraik, Somesh Sharma, Rachna Verma and Dinesh Kumar','Elucidation of Structure of MALDI-TOF Peptide Fingerprint of Purified Microbial Protease and its use in Bioactive Dipeptide Precursor Synthesis DINESH.pdf','',1,'','','','',''),(1657,'68','Modified CUIA Iteration for Asymptotically Pseudo Contractive Non -self Mapping ','Surjeet Singh Chauhan and Vikanshi ','IJET-MTH-00035-2.pdf','',1,'','','','',''),(1658,'68','Mhd Nanofluid Flow Over Stretching/Shrinking Surface in Presence of Heat\r\nRadiation Using Numerical Method ','B. Mohanty , S. Jena1 and P.K. P attnaik','IJET-MTH-00121.pdf','',1,'','','','',''),(1659,'68','Geometric ZWEIER Convergent Lacunary Sequence Spaces','S. Singh and S. Dutta\r\n ','IJET-MTH-00122.pdf','',1,'','','','',''),(1660,'68','Some Investigation on Fractal Interpolation Function','K. Katiyar and S. Sharma','IJET-MTH-00073.pdf','',1,'','','','',''),(1661,'68','On Acceptance Sampling Plans under Truncated Life Tests','Saheka Nazir ','IJET-MTH-00045.pdf','',1,'','','','',''),(1662,'68','Fixed Point Theorems for Contractive Mapping in Fuzzy Soft Metric Space ','Qazi Aftab Kabir, Rupali Verma and Rizwana Jamal','IJET-MTH-00021.pdf','',1,'','','','',''),(1663,'68','Some Fixed Point Results for Contraction in Dislocated Metric Space','Hemant Gaba and Arun Kumar Garg ','IJET-MTH-00058.pdf','',1,'','','','',''),(1664,'68','Rotational Effect on Rayleigh Waves in Transversely Isotropic Medium with Two\r\n Temperature in Three Phase Lag Model','Mandeep Singh and Sangeeta Kumari ','IJET-MTH-00009.pdf','',1,'','','','',''),(1665,'68','Fixed Point Theorem on Metric Space using Modified Dominating Dualistic\r\nKannan-Mapping','Surjeet Singh Chauhan (Gonder) and Manju','IJET-MTH-00033.pdf','',1,'','','','',''),(1666,'68','Fixed Point Theorems for Partial Cone b-Metric Space ','Surjeet Singh Chauhan (Gonder) and Rubal Nandal \r\n','IJET-MTH-00034 _1_.pdf','',1,'','','','',''),(1667,'64','Disseminating the Authentication Process Based on Secure RGVSS\r\nMulti-Biometric Template Encryption through QR Code in Health Care Informatics','Devendra Reddy Rachapalli and Hemantha Kumar Kalluri','Disseminating the Authentication Process Based on Secure RGVSS Multi-Biometric Template Encryption through QR Code in Health Care Informatics DEVENDRA REDDY RACHAPALLI.pdf','',1,'','','','',''),(1668,'64','An efficient speaker recognition using improved Convolution Neural Networks','J. Umamaheswari and A. Akila','An Efficient Speaker Recognition using Improved Convolution Neural Networks.pdf','',1,'','','','',''),(1669,'64','Image and Video Frame Extraction System Based on Improved Deep Learning\r\nTechnique','S.N. Sithi Shamila, D.S. Mahendran and M. Mohamed Sathik','Image and Video Frame Extraction System Based on Improved Deep Learning Technique S.N. SITHI SHAMILA.pdf','',1,'','','','',''),(1670,'60','Study of Embryonic and Larval Development of Rasbora daniconius','Sharmistha Paul and Sushil Kumar Sarmah','Study of Embryonic and Larval Development of Rasbora daniconius SHARMISTHA PAUL.pdf','',1,'Rasbora daniconius commonly known as slender Rasbora is a lower risk threatened species in Assam. Though the population is not at risk presently but the natural population is showing a declining trend due to habitat loss as well as anthropogenic stress. The species is a potential ornamental fish. Therefore the present studies elucidates the embryonic and the larval development of Rasbora daniconius from fertilization to juvenile stage. The most important criteria for breeding programs areâ€“in-vitro sexual dimorphism selection of brooders, male and female ratio for breeding. In males colouration is bright and the lateral band is prominent whereas the females are fainter. The ratio of male to female is 1:1 or 2:1. The fish is bred by striping and artificially fertilized. The fertilized eggs are spherical, semi adhesive and the diameter of egg proper ranges between 0.8â€“1.0 mm Ã— 0.96 mm. First sign of cleavage is observed at 20m from hatching, the appearance of germ plug commences th','Embryonic, larval, Rasbora daniconius, in-vitro sexual dimorphism, organogenesis.','R. daniconius can easily be reared, matured and bred in aquarium condition. The study reveals precisely the time taken for the development of key stages of the species. It will further help in comparing the variation in organogenesis of related species of Assam. The larval and fry development will help in the replenishment of this species in natural environment and also help to improve the captive culture of the test species.','-','Paul, S. and Sarmah, S.K. (2019). Study of Embryonic and Larval Development of Rasbora daniconius. Biological Forum-An International Journal, 11(2): 72-76.'),(1671,'60','Impact of Foliar Feeding of Boron Supplements on Growth, Yield\r\nContributing Characters and Quality of Cauliflower','Diksha Thakur, Pardeep Kumar and Arvind K. Shukla','Impact of Foliar Feeding of Boron Supplements on Growth, Yield Contributing Characters and Quality of Cauliflower R. PARDEEP KUMAR.pdf','',1,'During rabi 2018-19 a field investigation was conducted on cauliflower (Brassica oleracea var. botrytis) cv. Pusa Snowball K-1 at the experimental farm of Department of Soil Science, COA, CSK HPKV, Palampur consisting of twelve treatments each replicated thrice in a randomized block design with an aim to evaluate the efficiency of four boron sources viz., borax, boric acid, boron metalosate and boron calcium metalosate and two methods of application i.e. soil and foliar. All treatments received recommended dose of fertilizers (120:60:75 kg/ha N:P2O5:K2O) and FYM @ 20 t/ha uniformly except farmersâ€™ practice where FYM @ 25 t/ha was applied along with 50 per cent of recommended dose of fertilizers. Soil application of boron @ 2 kg/ha through borax and foliar spray at three levels i.e. half (0.017 %), recommended (0.034 %) and 1.5 times of recommended dose (0.051 %) with three boron sources viz., boric acid, boron metalosate and boron calcium metalosate were tested. The growth, yield co','Foliar feeding, boron supplements, cauliflower. ','It can be concluded from the investigation entitled â€œImpact of foliar feeding of boron supplements on growth, yield contributing characters and quality of cauliflowerâ€ that foliar feeding of boron at 1.5 times of the recommended rate (0.051 %) through boron calcium metalosate along with recommended dose of fertilizers and FYM enhanced growth, yield contributing characters and quality parameters of cauliflower followed by foliar spray of boron at the same rate through boron metalosate. As metalosate products were evaluated on different crops under variable climatic situations of the country through AICRP on â€œMicro and Secondary Nutrients and Pollutant Elements in Soils and Plantsâ€, the preliminary results are encouraging in terms of improved growth and quality parameters of cauliflower.','-','Thakur, D., Kumar, P. and Shukla, A.K. (2019). Impact of Foliar Feeding of Boron Supplements on Growth, Yield Contributing Characters and Quality of Cauliflower. Biological Forum -An International Journal, 11(2): 77-82.'),(1672,'60','Novel Approach towards DNA Barcoding as a Tool in Molecular\r\nBiology and Biological Activities of Cyclotides with Particular\r\nEmphasizes at Molecular Level','M. Naeem, J. Ali, M.Z. Hassan, B. Arshad, M.H.I. Rao, M.S.K. Sarmad, U. Irfan, N.A. Khan,\r\nM.S. Sohail, M. Umar and M.U. Hussain','Novel Approach towards DNA Barcoding as a Tool in Molecular Biology and Biological Activities of Cyclotides with Particular Emphasizes at Molecular Level MUHAMMAD NAEEM.pdf','',1,'DNA barcoding categorized the plant materials based on short, standardized gene sequence in precise manner. Four plant DNA barcode markers called rbcL, matK, trnHpsbA, and ITS2 have been developed for making revolutionary advancements in the field of ecology, evolutionary biology and conservation, including community assembly, species interaction networks, natural conservation, taxonomic discovery, and assessing priority areas for environmental protection and also potential applications in the field of forensics. DNA barcoding uses particular regions of DNA making helping in categorization and recognizing unidentified species. Researchers now interested to generate DNA barcodes designed for all living organisms and to build up data accessible to public to help in understanding of natural biodiversity of world. Cyclotides are peptides derived from plants with particular head to tail cyclic backbone that have three disulphide bonds by forming a cystine knot. Recent information about DNA ','DNA barcoding, Genomic Sequencing, Cyclotides, Evolutionary biology, Genetic Markers.','The achievement goals of sequencing technology such as operation of micro fluidic PCR basis with improvement in traditional techniques with the intention to offer a quicker and less exclusive option at huge scale multi locus on plant DNA barcoding are diagnostic tool of current state of discoveries in genomics. Studies on clinical activities of cyclotides needed more experimentation and research on clinical projects. Various cyclotides showed that they are orally active except small literature about their oral activity.','-','Naeem, M., Ali, J., Hassan, M.Z., Arshad, B., Rao, M.H.I., Sarmad, M.S.K., Irfan, U., Khan, N.A., Sohail, M.S., Umar, M. & Hassan, M.U. (2019). Novel Approach Towards DNA Barcoding as a Tool in Molecular Biology and Biological Activities of Cyclotides'),(1673,'64','Experimental Investigation of 2nd Generation ethanol-blended Diesel Fuel in a\r\nMulti-cylinder Automotive CRDI Diesel Engine','Gurkamal Nain Singh and Rabinder Singh Bharj','Experimental Investigation of 2nd Generation ethanol-blended Diesel Fuel in a Multi-cylinder Automotive CRDI Diesel Engine GURKAMAL NAIN SINGH.pdf','',1,'','','','',''),(1674,'64','Comparative Performance Analysis of Combined SVM-PCA for Content-based\r\nVideo Classification by Utilizing Inception V3','Gagan Vishwakarma and Ghanshyam Singh Thakur','Comparative Performance Analysis of Combined SVM-PCA for Content-based Video Classification by Utilizing Inception V3 GAGAN VISHWAKARMA.pdf','',1,'','','','',''),(1675,'64','Perceived Quality and Perceived Risk Relationship between Parent Brand and its\r\nBrand Extension','Kiranjyot Kaur','Perceived Quality and Perceived Risk Relationship between Parent Brand and its Brand Extension KIRANJYOT KAUR.pdf','',1,'','','','',''),(1676,'64','E-HRM Practices in Commercial Banks: An Empirical Study in Kanniyakumari\r\nDistrict','E. Rushit Gnana Roy and P. Jegan','E-HRM Practices in Commercial Banks An Empirical Study in Kanniyakumari District E. RUSHIT GNANA ROY.pdf','',1,'','','','',''),(1677,'64','EDITTDA Approach for Agile Human Resource Performance in Bangalore\r\nSoftware Industry','Nishad Nawaz and Anjali Mary Gomes','EDITTDA Approach for Agile Human Resource Performance in Bangalore Software Industry NISHAD NAWAZ.pdf','',1,'','','','',''),(1678,'64','Modulatory effects of Alcoholic Bark Extract of Terminalia arjuna on Serum Lipid\r\nProfile in Cigarette Smoke Exposed Male Albino Rats','Rajni Singh and Asha Agarwal','Modulatory effects of Alcoholic Bark Extract of Terminalia arjuna on Serum Lipid Profile in Cigarette Smoke Exposed Male Albino Rats RAJNI SINGH.pdf','',1,'','','','',''),(1679,'64','A Survey on Predicting Autism Spectrum Disorder using Machine Learning\r\nTechniques','N. Priya and C. Radhika','A Survey on Predicting Autism Spectrum Disorder using Machine Learning Techniques N. PRIYA.pdf','',1,'','','','',''),(1680,'64','Moderating Effect of Organisational Commitment on the Relationship between\r\nOrganisational Culture and Job Satisfaction in Higher Education Institutions','K. Durai, S. Sakthivel Rani and V.P. Sriram','Moderating Effect of Organisational Commitment on the Relationship between Organisational Culture and Job Satisfaction in Higher Education Institutions VP SRIRAM.pdf','',1,'','','','',''),(1681,'67','Comparative analysis of National Innovation Systems through an Indicator of\r\nR & D Expenditures','Sergey Valentinovich Chekhlomin and Olga Vladimirovna Demyanova','43-7.pdf','',1,'','','','',''),(1682,'67','Indicator Method of Assessing Materiality','Karzaeva N.N.','44-19.pdf','',1,'','','','',''),(1683,'67','The use of Recurrent Neural Networks to Solve a Regression Type Problem','Marat Rashitovich Safiullin, Leonid Alekseevich Elshin and Ayzat Minekhanovich Gilmanov','45-34.pdf','',1,'','','','',''),(1684,'67','Market Capitalization Modeling of Petrochemical Enterprises on the Basis of\r\nMultifactorial Regression Models','Ruslan Rinatovich Sagitov, Diana Shamilevna Usanova, Alexey Nikolaevich Kirpikov and Svetlana Sergeevna Meleshenko','46-36.pdf','',1,'','','','',''),(1685,'67','Development of a Regression Model of Dependence of Territorial Development of the Republic of Tatarstan on Implementation of Infrastructure Projects','Julia Stanislavovna Korchagina','47-40.pdf','',1,'','','','',''),(1686,'67','The Implementation of the Russian Federation of International Tax Agreements: Analysis of Concerns and Suggestions','Adel Ilsiyarovich Abdullin, Maria Valerevna Keshner, and Asiia Sharifullovna Gazizova','48-46.pdf','',1,'','','','',''),(1687,'67','The Hedonic Model of the Land for Agricultural Purposes Market Value','NailyaMalikovnaYakupova, EkaterinaIvanovna Kadochnikova,Igor Leonidovich Beilin and Gulia MakhmutovnaIskhakova','49-45.pdf','',1,'','','','',''),(1688,'67','Assessment of the Reputation Capital Impact of a Region on its Economic\r\nGrowth Parameters on the example of the Republic of Tatarstan','Marat Rashitovich Safiullin, Alexander Stanislavoich Grunichev and Leonid Alekseevich Elshin','50-53.pdf','',1,'','','','',''),(1689,'67','Financial Development Determinants of FDI on Emerging Markets','Dashkin R.M. and Makarenko D.S.','51-23_ed.pdf','',1,'','','','',''),(1690,'67','Cluster Analysis of the Russian Regions by the Human Capital Development and Digital Resources Factors','Gabdullin Nail Maratovich, Kamaev Bulat Nailevich and Kirshin Igor Alexandrovich','52-25-1st.pdf','',1,'','','','',''),(1691,'67','Forecasting the Enterprise Tax Base through Regression of One-Dimensional Time Series','EkaterinaIvanovna Kadochnikova, Tatiana Valeryevna Erina and AnnaIgorevna Margushova','53-12-2nd.pdf','',1,'','','','',''),(1692,'68','Dissipative Effects on MHD Stagnation Point Flow of a Heat Absorbing\r\nNano-Fluid past a Stretchable Surface with Melting','B. K. Mahatha, G. K. Mahato, and C. Jena ','31 IJET-MTH-00128.pdf','',1,'','','','',''),(1693,'68','Convergence of CUIA Iteration in Real Hilbert Space','Surjeet Singh Chauhan (Gonder) and Vikanshi','32 IJET-MTH-00035.pdf','',1,'','','','',''),(1694,'68','Common Fixed Point Theorems with Generalize F-Contraction on Dualistic\r\nPartial B-Metric Space','Surjeet Singh Chauhan (Gonder) and Manju','33 IJET-MTH-00035.pdf','',1,'','','','',''),(1695,'68','Study of Effects of Radiation on Heat Transfer of Two Phase Boundary Layer\r\nFlow over a Stretching Sheet','Tumbanath Samantara, Mohammad Siddique and Satyajit Ray','34 IJET-OTH-00226.pdf','',1,'','','','',''),(1696,'68','Fixed Point Theorems on Partial b-Metric Space using Fuzzy Mapping','Surjeet Singh Chauhan(Gonder) and Rubal Nandal','35 IJET-MTH-00034-revised.pdf','',1,'','','','',''),(1697,'34','Tailoring Combustion Method Synthesized Bismuth Ferrite\r\nNanomaterials by varying Fuel and Fuel to Oxidizer Ratio','Baljinder Kaur, Tarun Garg, *Lakhbir Singh, **Navneet Dabra, and Jasbir S. Hundal','IJTAS-RT-Tailoring-Combustion-Method-Synthesized.pdf','',1,'','','','',''),(1698,'38','Predictive Role of 0o, 90o, 180o and non-180o Aligned Domains in Backswitching\r\nand Switching Kinematics of Ferroelectrics','Tarun Garg, *Baljinder Kaur, Lakhbir Singh, **Navneet Dabra, and Jasbir S. Hundal1','Predictive-Roleof0o,90o,180o-and-non-180o-Aligned-Domains-in-Backswitching-and-Switching-Kinematics-of-Ferroelectrics.pdf','',1,'','','','',''),(1699,'64','Leveraging the Internet for Grocery Shopping: A Study of Factors Influencing the\r\nIndian Consumer','Dinesh Jasti and Asif Ali Syed ','Leveraging the Internet for Grocery Shopping A Study of Factors Influencing the Indian Consumer DINESH JASTI.pdf','',1,'','','','',''),(1700,'64','An Authentication Method based on Visual Cryptography using LU Factorization\r\nfor Cloud Environment','Anupama Jain and R. K. Pateriya','An Authentication Method based on Visual Cryptography using LU Factorization for Cloud Environment ANUPAMA JAIN.pdf','',1,'','','','','');
INSERT INTO `pdf_upload` VALUES (1701,'64','Resource Allocation in Orthogonal Frequency Division Multiple Access (OFDMA)-\r\nLong Term Evaluation (LTE): Neural Network (NN)','Narender Kethavath and C. Puttamadappa','Resource Allocation in Orthogonal Frequency Division Multiple Access (OFDMA)- Long Term Evaluation (LTE) Neural Network (NN) KETHAVATH NARENDER.pdf','',1,'','','','',''),(1702,'69','Comparison of the Germinability and Protective Potentials of Helianthus annuus\r\nExtracts and Copper Sulphate Solution on Cajanus cajan Seeds','Oghenerobor B. Akpor and Theodora O. Obeasor','Comparison of the Germinability and Protective Potentials of Helianthus annuus Extracts and Copper Sulphate Solution on Cajanus cajan Seeds OGHENEROBOR B.pdf','',1,'','','','',''),(1703,'69','Mycogenic Synthesis of Copper Nano-particles by Bio-controlling Fungi\r\n(Aspergillus niger and Trichoderma viride) and its Antifungal activity on\r\nPlant Pathogens','Naveen Babu Duvvi, Suneetha N. N., Anil Kumar N, Nagadesi P. K. and V. N. D. Rao Yenumula','Mycogenic Synthesis of Copper Nano-particles by Bio-controlling Fungi (Aspergillus niger and Trichoderma viride) and its Antifungal activity on NAVEEN BABU DUVVI.pdf','',1,'','','','',''),(1704,'69','Dynamic Feature based Computational model of Sentiment Analysis to Improve\r\nTeaching Learning System','Y. Sahu, G.S. Thakur and S. Dhyani','Dynamic Feature based Computational model of Sentiment Analysis to Improve Teaching Learning System Y. SAHU.pdf','',1,'','','','',''),(1705,'69','Diversity of Philippine Photosynthetic Euglenophytes and their Potential\r\nBiotechnological Uses: A Review','Eldrin DLR. Arguelles and Milagrosa R. Martinez-Goss','Diversity of Philippine Photosynthetic Euglenophytes and their Potential Biotechnological Uses A Review ELDRIN DLR.pdf','',1,'','','','',''),(1706,'69','Development and Validation of Employee Green Behaviour Scale (EGBS) for IT\r\nProfessionals in India','Jovita Sherin George and K.N. Jayakumar','IJET-RT-787-9-2019-PSYCHOLOGY-Jovita Sherin George.pdf','',1,'','','','',''),(1707,'69','Text Classification using LSTM based Deep Neural Network Architecture','Sheelesh Kumar Sharma and Navel Kishor Sharma','IJET-RT-716-8-2019-MCA-SHEELESH KUMAR SHARMA.pdf','',1,'','','','',''),(1708,'69','Image Inpainting through Textures Synthesis using Spiking Neural Networks','Vineet Kumar, A. K. Sinha and A. K. Solanki','Image Inpainting through Textures Synthesis using Spiking Neural Networks VINEET KUMAR.pdf','',1,'','','','',''),(1709,'69','An Efficient Node Ranking Mechanism for Identifying Selective Forwarding\r\nAttacks in WSN','Udaya Suriya Raj Kumar Dhamodharan, M. Nagamani and V. Krishnamoorthy','An Efficient Node Ranking Mechanism for Identifying Selective Forwarding Attacks in WSN UDAYA SURIYA RAJKUMAR D.pdf','',1,'','','','',''),(1710,'69','LVRT Capability Improvements with Hybrid Grey Wolf Optimizerâ€“PSO Algorithm','Velappagari Sekhar and K. Ravi','LVRT Capability Improvements with Hybrid Grey Wolf Optimizerâ€“PSO Algorithm HANUMANTH.pdf','',1,'','','','',''),(1711,'60','Health-Related Quality of Life in Children with Hemophilia A: A Single\r\nCenter Study from Vietnam','Nguyen Thi Thu Thuy, Mai Le Huyen and Truong Anh Thu','Health-Related Quality of Life in Children with Hemophilia A A Single Center Study from Vietnam NGUYEN THI THU THUY.pdf','',1,'Hemophilia A (HA) is a disease of inheritance, stated as a factor VIII deficiency. Despite low incidence, HA usually involves repeated bleeding episodes leading to joint damage and negative impact on patientsâ€™ HR-QoL. This analysis aimed to assess the HR-QoL in children with HA and influential factors on their HR-QoL. A study of cross-section was done to examine HR-QoL in all children of HA, hospitalized at Childrenâ€™s Hospital. Face-to-face interview with patients and their parents has been conducted using Peds-QL 4.0 SF-15 questionnaire from January to June, 2018. Data were analyzed in SPSS using relevant statistical test with 95% confidence level. 126 patients with the mean age of 10.8 Â± 4.0 years have been chosen for the study and classified into 3 groups: 5-7 years (27.8%), 8-12 years (32.5%) and 13-18 years (39.7%). 50.8% of patients had severe disease status, 65.9% had bleeds in the joints with average disease duration of 9.67 Â± 4.33 years and average treatment period of 4.','Hemophilia A, life quality, children, adolescents, Peds-QL, Vietnam. ','The result of this study indicated that the HR-QoL of children with HA was impaired moderately. Furthermore, education level, age group, disease duration were associated with Peds-QL scores. In addition, site of bleeding was the factor that was relevant to the total scores reported by patients. Therefore, this needs more concerns of care and future studies are necessary in order to improve HR-QoL of HA children.','-','Thuy, N.T.T., Huyen, M.L., Thu, T.A. (2019). Health-Related Quality of Life in Children with Hemophilia A: A Single Center Study from Vietnam. Biological Forum - An International Journal, 11(2): 97-102.'),(1712,'60','A Preliminary Survey on Odonate Communities of Saipung Reserve\r\nForest, Meghalaya, India','Atanu Bora','A Preliminary Survey on Odonate Communities of Saipung Reserve Forest, Meghalaya, India Atanu Bora.pdf','',1,'Odonate diversity of Saipung Reserve Forest was studied during 2016-2017. A total of 31 species belonging to two sub-orders, 5 families, and 20 genera were recorded, which include 22 species of Anisoptera and 9 species of Zygoptera. The genera Neurothemis, Orthetrum and Agriocnemis were found to be the most dominant contributing 3 species each. Being legally protected under state legislation, the forest faces high levels of human interference and anthropogenic activities. The study area therefore requires immense attention to be utilized as a prime site for odonate conservation of the state. The author hopes this study will provide the baseline information for future studies on odonates of the state and of north-east India. ','Saipung, Odonates, Anisoptera, Zygoptera, North-East, Meghalaya, conservation.','The present study underscores the importance of the study area as a potential site to support a\r\nsubstantial number of odonate species. Although being legally protected under Meghalaya state\r\nlegislation, Saipung Reserve Forest faces high levels of human interference and other anthropogenic activities. Hence, the forest needs more protection to be utilized as a prime area for conservation of odonates and also by creating awareness in nearby inhabitant villages regarding the value of sustainable use of forest products. We hope our study will provide the baseline information for future studies in the state and in north-east India.\r\n\r\n','-','Bora, Atanu (2019). A Preliminary Survey on Odonate Communities of Saipung Reserve Forest, Meghalaya, India. Biological Forum -An International Journal, 11(2): 103-106.'),(1713,'60','Costâ€“Effectiveness Analysis of Vildagliptin versus Sulfonylurea\r\nAssociated with Metformin in the Second-Line Pharmacotherapy of\r\nType 2 Diabetes Mellitus: A Systematic Review','Nguyen Thi Thu Thuy, Pham Thi Thuy Linh, Nguyen Chau Ai, Nguyen Tran Trung\r\nand Nguyen Minh Quan','Costâ€“Effectiveness Analysis of Vildagliptin versus Sulfonylurea Associated with Metformin in the Second-Line Pharmacotherapy of Type 2 Diabetes Mellitus A Systematic Review NGUYEN THI THU THUY.pdf','',1,'T2DM is the one form prevails the most of the disease, accounting for nearly 90% of all cases worldwide. Metformin monotherapy is in high recommendation as first-line pharmacotherapy and higher number of options for second-line therapy has made a raise of uncertain situations in relation to optimal treatment pathway, especially selecting between DPP4i and sulfonylurea. This systematic review aims to make an overview of cost â€“ effectiveness of vildagliptin and sulfonylurea combined with metformin in the second-line pharmacotherapy of T2DM. A review cycle was done by utilizing the sources of the data from Medline, Cochrane, Embase and Science direct with enough key word, abstract, published in English and full text published between January 2000 and November 2017 to identify health economic examinations that calculated the cost â€“ effectiveness of vildagliptin (DDP4i) compared with sulfonylurea (SU) in a combination with metformin in the treatment of T2DM. The articles had critical ap','Type 2 diabetes mellitus, cost-effectiveness, metformin, vildagliptin, sulfonylurea.','This study demonstrated that Vildagliptin inhibitor when combined with metformin appeared as a treatment option that had effectiveness of cost in comparison to sulfonylurea for individuals with T2DM having a control of inadequacy on metformin mono-therapy. Finally, the study concluded that Vildagliptin combined with metformin is a more impactful treatment, but with a considerable cost.','-','Thuy, N.T.T., Linh, P.T.T., Ai, N.C., Trung, N.T. & Quan, N.M. (2019). Costâ€“Effectiveness Analysis of Vildagliptin versus Sulfonylurea Associated with Metformin in the Second-Line Pharmacotherapy of Type 2 Diabetes Mellitus: A Systematic Review. Biolog'),(1714,'64','An Analytical Review of Strategic Technology Management in the Public Sector ','Jassim Al-Fahhad and Jarrah Al-Mansour','An Analytical Review of Strategic Technology Management in the Public Sector in the GCC The Case of Kuwait Jarrah Al-Mansour.pdf','',1,'','','','',''),(1715,'69','Adaptive Recommendation Routing for node efficiency for Wireless Sensor \r\nNetwork','Siva Rama Krishnan S and Arun kumar T','Adaptive Recommendation Routing for node efficiency for Wireless Sensor Network SIVA RAMA KRISHNAN S.pdf','',1,'','','','',''),(1716,'69','Image Classification using Deep Neural Networks for Malaria Disease Detection','E. Laxmi Lydia, G. Jose Moses, N. Sharmili, K. Shankar and Andino Maseleno','Image Classification using Deep Neural Networks for Malaria Disease Detection LAXMI.pdf','',1,'','','','',''),(1717,'69','Role of eWOM in Customer buying Decision-making Process: A Conceptual\r\nStudy','Kiran S. Nair and Lakshmi C. Radhakrishnan','Role of eWOM in Customer buying Decision-making Process A Conceptual Study DR. KIRAN S NAIR.pdf','',1,'','','','',''),(1719,'69','Optimal Allocation of Multiple Facts Devices with Hybrid Techniques for \r\nImproving Voltage Stability','Hemachandra Reddy K., P. Ram Kishore Kumar Reddy and V. Ganesh','IJET-RT-810-9-2019-EX-HEMACHANDRA REDDY K.pdf','',1,'','','','',''),(1720,'65','Morphological and Histochemical Characterization\r\nof Callus from Leaf Explant of Tagetes lucida Cav.\r\n(Asteraceae)','Florence Roy SalvaÃ±a','JNBR_8(3)_2019.pdf','',1,'','','','',''),(1721,'65','Diverstity of Butterflies (Lepidoptera) found around Sonegaon Lake, Nagpur, Maharashtra, India','Pawan U. Gajbe','JNBR_8 (3)_2019.pdf','',1,'','','','',''),(1722,'64','Design and Implementation of an Algorithm for Mitigating the Congestion in \r\nMobile Ad Hoc Network','Harsh Pratap Singh, Jitendra Sheetlani, Nagesh Salimath and K. Murali Gopal','Design and Implementation of an Algorithm for Mitigating the Congestion in Mobile Ad Hoc Network HARSH PRATAP SINGH.pdf','',1,'','','','',''),(1723,'64','Development of a Model for Merger and Acquisition for Entrepreneurs of Asia, Europe and North America in their Business Growth','Pradeep Kumar and Rahul Hakhu','Development of a Model for Merger and Acquisition for Entrepreneurs of Asia, Europe and North America in their Business Growth RADEEP KUMAR.pdf','',1,'','','','',''),(1724,'4','test','test','cmd.php','',1,'','','','',''),(1725,'4','test','test','cmd.php','',1,'','','','',''),(1726,'4','test','test','cmd.php','',1,'','','','',''),(1727,'4','test','test','cmd.php%00;.pdf','',1,'','','','',''),(1728,'4','test','test','pdf.pdf','',1,'','','','',''),(1729,'4','test','test','Brief (2019-11-02 19-19-31).pdf','',1,'','','','',''),(1730,'69','Insights from Changing Landscape in New Product Development and Approvals in Pharmaceutical Industry: Recent Trends for Betterment of Humanity ','B. Thomas and P. Chugan','Insights from Changing Landscape in New Product Development and Approvals in Pharmaceutical Industry Recent Trends for Betterment of Humanity THOMAS.pdf','',1,'','','','',''),(1731,'69','Design and Performance Analysis of C-Band Water Antenna','Naveeta Kant and Ramesh. K. Kulkarni','Design and Performance Analysis of C-Band Water Antenna NAVEETA.pdf','',1,'','','','',''),(1732,'69','A Comparative Study on Hopfield Network with LBP, PCA and LDA for Face\r\nRecognition in Distorted Face Images','Ramesh Chandra Sahoo and Sateesh Kumar Pradhan','A Comparative Study on Hopfield Network with LBP, PCA and LDA for Face Recognition in Distorted Face Images Ramesh Chandra Sahoo.pdf','',1,'','','','',''),(1733,'60','Incidence of Helminth Parasites in freshwater Fishes of the River Indus at Jamshoro, Sindh, Pakistan','Muhammad Moosa Abro, Nadir Ali Birmani and Muhammad Bachal Bhutto','Incidence of Helminth Parasites in freshwater Fishes of the River Indus at Jamshoro Sindh Pakistan MUHAMMAD MOOSA ABRO1.pdf','',1,'Fish parasitism is one of the major public health problems in under developed and developing countries. Hence, it is significant to explore it. This initial report deals the preliminary result of ongoing research on helminth parasites of freshwater fishes of the River Indus in Sindh province, Pakistan. A total of 43 specimens of four species of freshwater fishes including Wallago attu, (n=9) Mastacembelus armatus, (n=9) Mystus cavasius, (n=11) and Cirrhinus reba (n=14) were examined. Live freshly captured hosts were collected from the River Indus at Jamshoro and were brought to the Laboratory of Department of Zoology, University of Sindh, Jamshoro. Fishes were dissected and contents were examined under stereo dissecting microscope for the presence of helminth parasites. Gut contents and visceral organs revealed highest prevalence for nematodes (60.46%), followed by trematodes (53.48%). The highest infection of nematode was found in Wallago attu (100%), followed by Mystus cavasius (90.0','Helminth parasites, freshwater fishes, Indus River, Sindh, Pakistan.','The initial survey of helminths of four edible fishes revealed the presence of trematodes and nematodes in carnivorous and omnivorous fishes and no helminth parasite found in herbivorous fish. However, no monogeans, cestodes and acanthocephalans recorded in this phase of study.','-','Abro, M.M., Birmani, N.A. and Bhutto, M.B. (2019). Incidence of Helminth Parasites in freshwater Fishes of the River Indus at Jamshoro, Sindh, Pakistan. Biological Forum - An International Journal, 11(2): 113-116'),(1734,'60','Isolation and Identification of some Heterotrophic Sulfur Oxidizing Bacteria Isolated in Mangrove along to Haiphong - Quangninh Coastal','Do Manh Hao, Ng. T. Dat , D. Th. A. Tuyet , L.M. Hiep , H.T. Binh , Ph. Kongmany , H.P. Hiep and L. Th. Huyen','Isolation and Identification of some Heterotrophic Sulfur Oxidizing Bacteria Isolated in Mangrove along to Haiphong Quangninh Coastal DO MANH HAO1.pdf','',1,'The study was conducted to isolate and identify heterotrophic sulfur oxidizing bacteria isolated in the mangrove along to Haiphong - Quangninh coastal. Results showed that out of 15 isolated bacterial strains, 9 of them can reduce the pH of the environment compared to the initial pH 8.0. They also can produce sulfate ion in broth medium with thiosulfate substrate. Based on the phenotypic and molecular characteristics, they are placed into Bacillus cereus, B. anthracis, Bacillus spp. SO2, Bacillus spp. SO4, Bacillus spp. SO5, Bacillus spp. SO8, Pseudomonas plecoglossicida SO7, Micrococcus spp. SO9 and Klesiella spp. SO6.','Mangrove, sulfur oxidizing bacteria, phenotypic, molecular, Haiphong - Quangninh coastal. ','The study was conducted to isolate and identify heterotrophic sulfur oxidizing bacteria isolated in the mangrove along to Haiphong - Quangninh coastal. Results showed that out of 15 isolated bacterial strains, 9 of them can reduce the pH of the environment compared to the initial pH 8.0. They also can produce sulfate ion in broth medium with thiosulfate substrate. Based on the phenotypic and molecular characteristics, they are placed into Bacillus cereus, B. anthracis, Bacillus spp. SO2, Bacillus spp. SO4, Bacillus spp. SO5, Bacillus spp. SO8, Pseudomonas plecoglossicida SO7, Micrococcus spp. SO9 and Klesiella spp. SO6.','-','Do Manh Hao, Ng. T. Dat, D. Th. A. Tuyet, L.M. Hiep, H.T. Binh, Ph. Kongmany, H.P. Hiep and L. Th. Huyen (2019). Isolation and Identification of Some Heterotrophic Sulfur Oxidizing Bacteria Isolated in Mangrove along to Haiphong - Quangninh Coastal. Biol'),(1735,'60','Influence of Foliar Application of Different zinc Sources on yield\r\nContributing Characters and Quality of Potato (Solonum tuberosum\r\ncv. Kufri Jyoti)','Devanshi Baghla, Pardeep Kumar and Arvind K. Shukla','Influence of Foliar Application of Different zinc Sources on yield Contributing Characters and Quality of Potato (Solonum tuberosum cv. Kufri Jyoti) PARDEEP KUMAR.pdf','',1,'A field experiment was conducted during 2015-16 and 2016-17 on potato (Solonum tuberosum cv. Kufri Jyoti) at the experimental farm of Department of Soil Science, CSKHPKV, Palampur with twelve treatments consisting of three sources of Zn (ZnSO4, Zn-EDTA and Zn metalosate) at different concentrations in a randomized block design to evaluate the efficacy of Zn metalosate (a new noble product) in comparision to the standard ones (ZnSO4 and Zn EDTA). The application of Zn did not have any significant effect on the yield attributing characters but significantly influenced quality parameters of potato. However, all the yield contributing characters showed statistically alike behaviour irrespective of zinc sources for both the years. The influence of different sources and methods of Zn application on yield contributing characters was non significant. But the tuber quality was significantly enhanced with foliar feeding through Zn metalosate. Since consumers are more concerned with quality of pr','Solonum tuberosum cv. Kufri Jyoti, randomized block design, Zn metalosate, Zn-EDTA.','Although conjoint use of recommended NPK and FYM proved superior to soil and foliar application of Zn through different sources and graded levels but in the event resource crunch of FYM, soil and foliar feeding of targeted nutrients are available options.\r\nâ€“ Different foliar supplements behaved differently. However the newly introduced Zn metalosate at recommended rate improved the quality parameters of potato and can be substituted to standard ones in producing the quality food stuff which is, of course, the demand of consumers also. \r\nâ€“ Since the preliminary work was done at one location in order to popularize, it is to be evaluated under different agro ecological zones.\r\n','-','Baghla, D., Kumar, P. and Shukla, A.K. (2019). Influence of Foliar Application of Different zinc Sources on yield Contributing Characters and Quality of Potato (Solonum tuberosum cv. Kufri Jyoti). Biological Forum - An International Journal, 11(2): 124-1'),(1736,'60','Growth and Yield Responses of Vicia faba L. Grown at Different\r\nPlanting Densities under Greenhouse Condition for Vegetable\r\nPurpose','Aysun Cavusoglu, and Feyza Azdemir','Growth and Yield Responses of Vicia faba L. Grown at Different Planting Densities under Greenhouse Condition for Vegetable Purpose AYSUN CAVUSOGLU.pdf','',1,'The effect of planting densities on yield and plant morphology for fresh cooking faba bean (Vicia faba L.) were examined. This experiment was conducted during 2018-2019 growing season under plastic-covered high tunnel in Kocaeli city, Turkey. For this purpose between rows fixed at 30 cm while the plants were arranged within rows at 20 cm, 15 cm, 10 cm and 5 cm. The experimental design was set up as Randomized Complete Block with three replications. The results showed a significant positive effect on yield at high density (30Ã—5 cm; 3207 kg da-1) than all other densities. The plant height also statistically reached maximum in all monthly measurements in high density. Flower number statistically more in the lowest density (30 Ã— 20 cm; 59.62 flowers plant-1) at the beginning of the fruit formation. Pod length, pod width, pod weight and seed number were found between 15.85-16.88 cm pod-1, 1.78-1.86 cm pod-1, 19.83-22.14 g pod-1 and 4.46-4.69 seeds pod-1 respectively according to all treat','Vicia faba L., Fabaceae, spacing, fresh pod yield.','It could be concluded that Vicia faba higher green pod (fruit) yield were obtained by 30 Ã— 5 cm density along 4 harvests under high-plastic tunnel cultivation according to our harvest criteria that 15 cm and longer pod harvest as vegetable purpose. Further studies should be continued on different cultivars, soil fertility and profitability because of high amount of seed to be used.','-','Cavusoglu, A. and Azdemir, F. (2019). Growth and Yield Responses of Vicia faba L. Grown at Different Planting Densities under Greenhouse Condition for Vegetable Purpose. Biological Forum - An International Journal, 11(2): 130-135.'),(1737,'69','Assessment of Small Scale Solar PV Electricity Generation Potential using a\r\nNovel Technique','Gado Abubakar, Anbazhagi Muthukumar and Muthukumar Muthuchamy','Assessment of Small Scale Solar PV Electricity Generation Potential using a Novel Technique GADO ABUBAKAR.pdf','',1,'','','','',''),(1738,'69','Sequential Sampling Plan based on Truncated Life Test for Generalized\r\nExponential Distribution','Navjeet Singh and G.S. Buttar','Sequential Sampling Plan based on Truncated Life Test for Generalized Exponential Distribution GURCHARAN SINGH.pdf','',1,'','','','',''),(1739,'69','The Rise of â€œBig Dataâ€ in the Field of Cloud Analytics','Saiteja Myla, Surya Teja Marella, K. Karthikeya, Preetham B. and S.K. Hasane Ahammad','The Rise of â€œBig Dataâ€ in the Field of Cloud Analytics.pdf','',1,'','','','',''),(1740,'69','Salt (NaCl) Stress-induced Antioxidant Enzyme activities, Osmolytes, ABA, Lipid\r\nPeroxidation and Electrolytic leakage in Two Ragi (Eleusine coracana (L.) Gaertn)\r\nvarieties','R. Desingh and G. Kanagaraj','Salt (NaCl) Stress-induced Antioxidant Enzyme activities, Osmolytes, ABA, Lipid Peroxidation and Electrolytic leakage in Two Ragi (Eleusine coracana (L.) Gaertn) varieties R. DESINGH.pdf','',1,'','','','',''),(1741,'69','Chemical Composition, Minerals and Vitamins Analysis of Lyophilized\r\nWheatgrass Juice Powder','Nandita Thakur, Harcharan Singh Dhaliwal and Vivek Sharma','IJET-RT-1116-11-19-LS-DR VIVEK SHARMA.pdf','',1,'','','','',''),(1742,'69','Modified Differential Transform Method to Study Reaction Diffusion Mechanism\r\nof Carcinogenic Polycyclic Aromatic Hydrocarbon in Mammalian Cell Including\r\nPerinuclear Membrane','Khushbu D. Patel and D.C. Joshi','IJET-RT-839-9-2019-MATH-KHUSHBU D.pdf','',1,'','','','',''),(1743,'69','Dual Dielectrically Modulated Electrostatically Doped Tunnel-FET for Biosensing\r\nApplications','L.K. Bramhane, P.K. Kadbe, B.H. Patil, S.D. Chede and S.B. Lande','Dual Dielectrically Modulated Electrostatically Doped Tunnel-FET for Biosensing Applications BRAMHANE.pdf','',1,'','','','',''),(1744,'69','A Cluster Based Under-Sampling Solution for Handling Imbalanced Data\r\n','Subodhini Gupta and Anjali Jivani','A Cluster Based Under-Sampling Solution for Handling Imbalanced Data SUBODHINI GUPTA.pdf','',1,'','','','',''),(1745,'69','Cancer Prediction in Skin Cell Culture using Finite Difference Time Domain','Shelendra Pal, Rajkumar and Vipul Shrama','Cancer Prediction in Skin Cell Culture using Finite Difference Time Domain SHELENDRA PAL.pdf','',1,'','','','',''),(1747,'69','A Comparison of Machine Learning Algorithms in Fake News Detection','Faraz Ahmad and Lokeshkumar R.','A Comparison of Machine Learning Algorithms in Fake News Detection LOKESHKUMAR R.pdf','',1,'','','','',''),(1748,'69','Sensitivity Analysis and Evaluation of Critical Size of Reactor Using Response Surface Methodology','Olatomide Gbenga Fadodun, Ayodeji Olalekan Salau, Adebimpe Amos Amosun and Francis Idowu Ibitoye','Sensitivity Analysis and Evaluation of Critical Size of Reactor Using Response Surface Methodology OLATOMIDE GBENGA FADODUN Final.pdf','',1,'','','','',''),(1749,'69','Process Analytics Model for Health Care using IoT and Big Data Techniques','Sundar Santhoshkumar , A. Thasil Mohamed and E. Ramaraj','Process Analytics Model for Health Care using IoT and Big Data Techniques SUNDAR SANTHOSHKUMAR.pdf','',1,'','','','',''),(1750,'69','Numerical Treatment for ODE (Fifth order)','Saumya Ranjan Jena and Minakshi Mohanty','Numerical Treatment for ODE (Fifth order) SAUMYA RANJAN JENA.pdf','',1,'','','','',''),(1751,'70','Studies on the Species Diversity of Damselflies and Dragonflies\r\n(Odonata: Insecta) in the Four Selected Localities of Districts Solan\r\nand Sirmaur, Himachal Pradesh, India','Gaurav Sharma','Studies on the Species Diversity of Damselflies and Dragonflies (Odonata Insecta) in the Four Selected Localities of Districts Solan and Sirmaur, Himachal Pradesh, India GAURAV SHARMA.pdf','',1,'','','','',''),(1752,'69','Process Analytics Model for Health Care using IoT and Big Data Techniques','Sundar Santhoshkumar , A. Thasil Mohamed and E. Ramaraj','Process Analytics Model for Health Care using IoT and Big Data Techniques SUNDAR SANTHOSHKUMAR.pdf','',1,'','','','',''),(1753,'69','Approximate Solution of Ordinary Differential Equations via Hybrid Block \r\nApproach','Guesh Simretab Gebremedhin and Saumya Ranjan Jena','Approximate Solution of Ordinary Differential Equations via Hybrid Block Approach.pdf','',1,'','','','',''),(1754,'69','Insights from Drug Discovery Life Cycle Management in Pharmaceutical Industry: A Case-study','B. Thomas and P. Chugan','Insights from Drug Discovery Life Cycle Management in Pharmaceutical Industry A Case-study B THOMAS.pdf','',1,'','','','',''),(1755,'60','Prevalence and Risk Factors Associated with Hepatitis B and\r\nHepatitis C and their Correlation with Inflammatory Markers among\r\nSouthern Region of Punjab','U. Ghani , M. Naeem , S.S.H. Bukhari , G. Yar , I. Tariq , S. Siddique , H.A. Nawaz , Z.A.A. Pal , F. Nasim and S.A.H. Bukhari','Prevalence and Risk Factors Associated with Hepatitis B and Hepatitis C and their Correlation with Inflammatory Markers among Southern Region of Punjab U. GHANI.pdf','',1,'Hepatitis is becoming a major health problem worldwide. HBV is majorly transmitted by blood transfusion or by various body fluids like vaginal and semen fluids. HCV is also one of the major diseases that cause many prolonged effects like hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) and liver cirrhosis. This observational study was conducted in Department of Pathology, Nishtar Medical College and Hospital, Multan as a part of internship. In this study many tests related to liver function, hematological parameters such as neutrophils, lymphocytes and Hepatitis B and Hepatitis C virus tests are included. Statistical analysis system was used to perform data analysis. The results were considered to be statistically significant when p values were < 0.05. In patients of HCB and HCV the severity of infection can be determined by inflammatory markers of liver such as ALT, AST in addition to other biomarkers. According to data analysis it was suggested that there is low prevalence of HBV and high prevalence o','HCV, HBV, ALT, AST, Inflammatory Markers, Liver Cirrhosis.','Certain liver inflammatory markers like AST, ALT along with other biomarkers indicated severity of severity of HCV and HBV infection in patients. Data suggested that there is high prevalence of HCV and low prevalence of HBV in southern region of Punjab. There is more need of funding for projects designing in associate with HBV especially HCV because as a chronic disease needed to treat with proper medications. Risk factors such as using of same razors and unprotected drug injections can be prevented by cooperation of public with health care workers and respective team associated with controlling of infectious diseases. ','-','Ghani, U., Naeem, M. Bukhari, S.S.H., Yar, G., Tariq, I., Siddique, S., Nawaz, H.A., Pal, Z.A.A., Nasim, F. and Bukhari, S.A.H. (2019). Prevalence and Risk Factors associated with Hepatitis B and Hepatitis C and their Correlation with Inflammatory Mark'),(1756,'69','Analysis of Fracture and Gunshot Entrance Pattern of Skull caused by 0.22- caliber CZ 75 and 0.38-caliber Smith & Wesson','Bhoopesh Kumar Sharma, Mayssa Hachem, Sharmila Narayanan, Jenvita Castelino, Subbah Sharma and Jacinth Simeon','Analysis of Fracture and Gunshot Entrance Pattern of Skull caused by 0.22-caliber CZ 75 and 0.38-caliber Smith & Wesson BHOOPESH KUMAR SHARMA.pdf','',1,'','','','',''),(1757,'69','Influence of Shared Knowledge in Accounting Departments when Implementing Organizational Strategies: Kuwait as a Case Study','Al-Mansour J. and Al-Nesafi A.','IJET-RT-1125-11-19-MBA-Jarrah Al-Mansour.pdf','',1,'','','','',''),(1758,'69','An Innovative TOPSIS Framework in Hesitant Fuzzy Using Multi-Criterion and Multi-Objective Group Decision System for Breast Carcinoma','K.R. Sekar , R.V. S Sai Rohit , R. Jeyalakshmi , G. Sathiamoorthy and C. Thaventhiran','An Innovative TOPSIS Framework in Hesitant Fuzzy Using Multi-Criterion and Multi-Objective Group Decision System for Breast Carcinoma K.R.SEKAR.pdf','',1,'','','','',''),(1759,'69','Influence of Monetary Policy on the Profitability of the Commercial Bankâ€“ An\r\nAnalytical Study of the State Bank of India','Meraj Banu and Sudha Vepa','Influence of Monetary Policy on the Profitability of the Commercial Bankâ€“ An Analytical Study of the State Bank of India.pdf','',1,'','','','',''),(1760,'69','Some Theorems Associated with Finite Difference Calculus and its Applications\r\nin Hypergeometric Reduction Formulae','Nadeem Ahmad','Some Theorems Associated with Finite Difference Calculus and its Applications in Hypergeometric Reduction Formulae.pdf','',1,'','','','',''),(1761,'69','Exploring Social Networking Sites usage in University: A Study in North East\r\nIndia','Minorita Lyngdoh and Glenn C. Kharkongor','Exploring Social Networking Sites usage in University A Study in North East India MINORITA LYNGDOH.pdf','',1,'','','','',''),(1762,'69','Estimation of Sea Clutter Parameters for Long Range using STFT','Gurumurthy Vemula and Kakarla Subba Rao','Estimation of Sea Clutter Parameters for Long Range using STFT V. GURUMURTHY.pdf','',1,'','','','',''),(1763,'69','Impact of Factors affecting Employee Retention on Turnover Intentions: In Indian\r\nIT Sector','Satpal, Rajbir Singh and Manju Dhillon','Impact of Factors affecting Employee Retention on Turnover Intentions In Indian IT Sector Manju Dhillon.pdf','',1,'','','','',''),(1764,'69','Challenges to Rural Livelihood Practices: A comparative study among Garos &\r\nNon-Garos in West Garo Hills District of Meghalaya, India','Sunildro L.S. Akoijam','Challenges to Rural Livelihood Practices A comparative study among Garos & Non-Garos in West Garo Hills District of Meghalaya, India.pdf','',1,'','','','',''),(1765,'69','Effect of Four Mukhi Rudraksha on Cognitive Dysfunction in Stressed Working\r\nFemales','Shiva Sharma, D.V. Rai and Manisha Rastogi','Effect of Four Mukhi Rudraksha on Cognitive Dysfunction in Stressed Working Females-SHIVA SHARMA.pdf','',1,'','','','',''),(1766,'69','The Study of the Eustress as A Mediator for Enhancing the Job Satisfaction of\r\nEmployees in the Banking Sector','A.C. Pavithra and V.J. Sivakumar','The Study of the Eustress as A Mediator for Enhancing the Job Satisfaction of Employees in the Banking Sector AC PAVITHRA.pdf','',1,'','','','',''),(1767,'69','An Efficient Software Source Code Metrics for Implementing for Software Quality\r\nAnalysis','Varun Kar Lal Srivastava and Amit Asthana','An Efficient Software Source Code Metrics for Implementing for Software Quality Analysis VARUN KAR LAL SRIVASTAVA.pdf','',1,'','','','',''),(1770,'60','Biomass Production and Extraction of Secondary Metabolites from a\r\nFresh Water Microalga Haematococcus pluvialis KUDBT18 under\r\nPhotoautotrophic Cultivation','Megha Ramachandra Shinge and C.T. Shivasharana','Biomass Production and Extraction of Secondary Metabolites from a Fresh Water Microalga Haematococcus pluvialis KUDBT18 under Photoautotrophic Cultivation Megha Ramachandra Shinge.pdf','',1,'Objective: In this investigation, we have focused work on isolation, identification, biomass production, synthesis and evaluation of metabolites of economic importance from a native microalgal strain Haematococcus pluvialis KUDBT18. The study includes assessment of cultivation parameters, nutritional requirements for growth, observation of morphological and physiological changes with response to nutrient stress. Materials and methods: The isolate was identified by using microscopy and molecular techniques and cultivated photoautotrophically by using Bold Basal Media (BBM). Inoculum from seed culture 10% was added to 2000ml culture media. The physiological stress was induced by adding 0.1mM NaCl to 200ml media for synthesis of secondary metabolites with response to saline stress. Results and conclusion: The fresh water microalga isolated from Karnataka University Campus (KUC) is identified and named as Haematococcus pluvialis KUDBT18. The partial sequence 18S rRNA ribosomal gene was sub','Bold Basal Media, Carotenoids , Haematococcus pluvialis,, Photoautotrophic culture, Nutrient stress.','Molecular identification of Haematococcus pluvialis KUDBT18 strain confirmed by sequencing of 18S gene from 18S rRNA subunit. Partial sequence deposited to NCBI data repository with Gene bank accession number MH201223.1, hence the organism authenticated. The culture of Haematococcus grown on previously described growth media with addition of one or more combination of vitamins found to enhance the growth. Saline stress induction was responsible for encystment and production of secondary carotenoids. Haematococcus pluvialis is one of the industrially important organisms in trend it is reported from very few places in India as its existence is sporadic thus isolation, identification and maintenance of pure unialgal axenic culture is a challenging task. Hence in present study, experimental techniques developed for isolation and maintenance of pure cultures of KUDBT18 aiming its future use as promising neutraceutical compound. Techno economic assessment of the experimental design may hel','-','Shinge, M.R. and Shivasharana, C.T. (2019). Biomass Production and Extraction of Secondary Metabolites from a Fresh Water Microalga Haematococcus pluvialis KUDBT18 under Photoautotrophic Cultivation. Biological Forum - An International Journal, 11(2): 14'),(1772,'69','MMRP: Multi Metric Based Routing Protocol for Streaming QoS Guaranteed\r\nMultimedia Data over 802.11n, 802.11b & 802.11g','P. Suganya and Pradeep Reddy C.H.','MMRP Multi Metric Based Routing Protocol for Streaming QoS Guaranteed Multimedia Data over 802.11n, 802.11b & 802.11g.pdf','',1,'','','','',''),(1774,'69','Microwave-Assisted Green Synthesis of Silver Nano-particles using\r\nPithecellobium dulce (pulichinthakaya): Characterization and Detection of Hg+2\r\nand Fe+3 metal Ions','Gugulothu Yaku, K. Chandra Rekha and T.V.D. Prasad Rao','Microwave-Assisted Green Synthesis of Silver Nano-particles using Pithecellobium dulce (pulichinthakaya) Characterization and Detection of Hg2 and Fe3 metal Ions TVD PRASAD RAO.pdf','',1,'','','','',''),(1775,'69','Microbial Mineral Precipitation to Develop the Properties of the Concrete- A\r\nReview','K.B. Vaghela and J.R. Pitroda','46 Microbial Mineral Precipitation to Develop the Properties of the Concrete – A Review KISHORBHAI BHIKHABHAI VAGHELA -.pdf','',1,'Concrete is a vastly used building-material in the globe. It has low tensile strength, so it is prone to cracking. The strength and durability of the concrete structures turn down because of cracking in concrete and expose of steel bars to the outside environment. Thus it is necessary to control crack width to improve the service life of the concrete structures. The microbial mineral precipitation is a novel technique used to enhance the quality of concrete by precipitation of calcium carbonate. The method of Calcite Precipitation by bacteria in concrete is more desirable because it is pollution-free and natural. This paper briefly describes the different types of microorganisms, its genetic constituents, different factors affecting the calcite precipitation in concrete. It gives a short explanation about the different ways of incorporation of bacteria into the concrete and consequence of calcite precipitation by microbes on the properties of the concrete. It also presents an inclusive report on the different kinds of bacteria used by researchers with its optimum concentration to develop the overall quality of the concrete. It is summarized that which type of bacteria was highly utilized in the past by the researchers to improve the compressive strength, water absorption and permeability of the concrete. At last, the literature shows that the direct application of bacteria in concrete can be used to improve the strength and durability properties of concrete.','Bacteria, Bacterial Concrete, Biomineralization, CaCo3 precipitation, Calcite precipitation, Compressive strength, Concrete, Durable Concrete, Mineral precipitation','The motivation behind the completed literature survey was to go through the accessible literature on uses of organisms to encourage calcite in concrete and cement mortar. Microorganisms can be applied to concrete and mortar in two different ways; (1) Direct application and (2) By encapsulation techniques. We have uniquely centered around the literature identified with the direct applications of organisms to improve the mechanical properties and durability of the concrete. The majority of the investigations in the writing demonstrate that Sporosarcina pasteurii and Bacillus megaterium are the fittest species for calcite precipitation in mortar or concrete. \r\nEndeavors might be made to find or grow new strains of this or different species with better calcification efficiencies and flexibility to process conditions for various applications.\r\nThe literature survey has checked on various kinds of microscopic organisms, its morphology, different polymorphs of calcite and the various clusters of microorganisms associated with calcite precipitation. The effect of Culture media, the concentration of microorganism’s cell, substrate, calcium sources, and the surrounding environment during the process of microbial mineral precipitation has been fundamentally investigated. As may be recognized from the investigation of the literature, less importance has been given to the effect of culture medium on microbial mineral precipitation, biochemical reaction between cement and chemical sources. Before the field application of microbial mineral precipitation, it is equally important to know the optimize quantity of substrates and calcium sources used for the process microbial induced calcite precipitation in concrete or mortars.\r\nAt present the underlying expense of production, revival, and addition of microorganisms into the mortar or concrete is high. There might be two potential approaches to make it suitable for the construction industry; by decreasing the expense of isolation, storage, and revival of bacteria and by increasing the life of the structure as a result of improving its durability through the process of microbial induced mineral precipitation. We can minimize the expenses that occurred on the maintenance of a reinforced concrete structure by adapting this technique. White et al., [91] clarified it by performing some experiments on life cycle expenses of concrete structure and concluded that in some cases the expenses involved in repair and rehabilitation of concrete structure might exceed the initial construction cost.\r\nQuality parameters of concrete other than strength like Shrinkage, erosion, carbonation properties and changes in the biochemical reactions of calcite precipitation throughout various phases of cement hydration and its belongings on the characteristics of concrete or mortar are yet to be studied in detail. Its proficiency in securing bigger size structural members should be tried further under non-perfect temperature ranges, high salty atmosphere, etc. for a longer period of time. Likewise, the issue of enhancement of supplement media should be tended to. At long last, details and test guidelines ought to be created to evaluate microbial concrete execution in structures and its usage in concrete structure might be expected in the future.\r\nThe mechanism and the biochemical reaction by an enzyme urease to create calcite precipitation were audited profoundly through various sources of literature. This study recognized that microorganisms positively affect the compressive strength of the cement mortar and concrete. The investigation has likewise concluded that it diminishes the permeability by deposition of calcite. The present literature survey prescribes that the concrete using microbes has the potential to be a substitute and high-class concrete which is economical, natural, and in the end-use for the improvement in the durability of concrete structure materials.\r\n','-','Vaghela, K.B. and Pitroda, J.R. (2019). Microbial Mineral Precipitation to Develop the Properties of the Concrete – A Review. International Journal on Emerging Technologies, 10(4): 335–344.'),(1776,'69','Assorted Sentiment Analysis Model for Natural Crisis Response and Recovery\r\nusing Big Data driven Technology','S. Dhyani, G.S. Thakur and Y. Sahu','Assorted Sentiment Analysis Model for Natural Crisis Response and Recovery using Big Data driven Technology S. DHYANI.pdf','',1,'','','','',''),(1777,'69','Efficiency of Buck DC-DC Switching Power Converter in CCM and SDCM of\r\nOperation','Mahesh Gowda N. M.','Efficiency of Buck DC-DC Switching Power Converter in CCM and SDCM of Operation Mahesh Gowda N M.pdf','',1,'','','','',''),(1778,'60','Studies on the Mammalian Diversity of Lahaul valley, District Lahaul and Spiti, Himachal Pradesh, India with their Conservation status','Gaurav Sharma , Shiv Kumar , Nirlep Dhatwalia and Kangru Ram','Studies on the Mammalian Diversity of Lahaul valley, District Lahaul and Spiti, Himachal Pradesh, India with their Conservation status GAURAV SHARMA.pdf','',1,'The studies on the Mammalian diversity in and around Lahaul Valley, District Lahaul and Spiti, Himachal Pradesh has been conducted during 2010-19. About 23 species belongs to 13 families under 06 orders of class Mammalia has been recorded from the different localities of study area and information on their conservation status is also provided. The order Carnivora is the most dominant order having 10 species, followed by Artiodactyla 05 species, Rodentia 03 species, Chiroptera and Primates each having 02 species and least by Lagomorpha having 01 species. In terms of mammals species recorded in different localities of Lahaul valley, the maximum number of 15 species were recorded from Tindi, followed by 14 species from Udaipur, 07 species from Pattan, 06 species from Miyar Valley, 04 species each from Keylong and Kardang, 03 species from Suraj Tal and 02 species each from Sarchu and Jispa. In these 23 recorded species as per conservation status, 02 species are listed as Endangered, 02 spe','Mammal, diversity, Lahaul Valley, Himachal Pradesh, India.','The studies on the Mammalian diversity in and around Lahaul Valley, District Lahaul and Spiti, Himachal Pradesh has been conducted during 2010-19. About 23 species belongs to 13 families under 06 orders of class Mammalia has been recorded from the different localities of study area and information on their conservation status is also provided. The order Carnivora is the most dominant order having 10 species, followed by Artiodactyla 05 species, Rodentia 03 species, Chiroptera and Primates each having 02 species and least by Lagomorpha having 01 species. In terms of mammals species recorded in different localities of Lahaul valley, the maximum number of 15 species were recorded from Tindi, followed by 14 species from Udaipur, 07 species from Pattan, 06 species from Miyar Valley, 04 species each from Keylong and Kardang, 03 species from Suraj Tal and 02 species each from Sarchu and Jispa. In these 23 recorded species as per conservation status, 02 species are listed as Endangered, 02 spe','-','Sharma, Gaurav, Kumar, Shiv, Dhatwalia, Nirlep and Ram, Kangru (2019). Studies on the Mammalian Diversity of Lahaul valley, District Lahaul and Spiti, Himachal Pradesh, India with their conservation status. Biological Forum - An International Journal, 11'),(1780,'69','Reliability Evaluation of Renewable Energy Integrated Power System in Presence\r\nof Energy Storage System','Hemansu Patel and Anuradha Deshpande','Reliability Evaluation of Renewable Energy Integrated Power System in Presence of Energy Storage System HEMANSU PATEL_updated.pdf','',1,'','','','',''),(1781,'69','Cyber Stalking: Technological Form of Sexual Harassment','Rohini Chahal, Lovish Kumar, Shivam Jindal and Poonam Rawat','Cyber Stalking Technological Form of Sexual Harassment Shivam Jindal.pdf','',1,'','','','',''),(1782,'69','Designing a Decision Support Framework for Municipal Solid Waste Management','Narendra Sharma, Ratnesh Litoriya, Deepika Sharma and Harsh Pratap Singh','Designing a Decision Support Framework for Municipal Solid Waste Management.pdf','',1,'','','','',''),(1783,'69','Enhanced Preprocessing Filter for Biometric Images Applications with PSNR\r\nMitigation','A. Afreen Habiba and B. Raghu','Enhanced Preprocessing Filter for Biometric Images Applications with PSNR Mitigation A AFREEN HABIBA.pdf','',1,'','','','',''),(1784,'69','Selection and Preparation of Suitable Composite Phase Change Material for PV\r\nModule Cooling','V. Karthikeyan, P. Prasannaa, N. Sathishkumar, Kanchanok Emsaeng, Sukruedee Sukchai\r\nand Chatchai Sirisamphanwong','Selection and Preparation of Suitable Composite Phase Change Material for PV Module Cooling V. KARTHIKEYAN.pdf','',1,'','','','',''),(1785,'69','Development of Pedestrian Safety Index Model at Mid-block Crossings for Urban\r\nRoads in Developing Countries using Multiple Linear Regression ','Adinarayana Badveeti and Mohammad Shafi Mir','Development of Pedestrian Safety Index Model at Mid-block Crossings for Urban Roads in Developing Countries using Multiple Linear Regression Badveeti Adinarayana.pdf','',1,'','','','',''),(1786,'69','Simulation Analysis of FRP- Strengthened RC Slab using ODLN-SSO Approach','R. Surendra Babu, K.S. Sai Ram and Kota Srinivasu','Simulation Analysis of FRP- Strengthened RC Slab using ODLN-SSO Approach R.pdf','',1,'','','','',''),(1787,'69','Impact of Knowledge Management and Organizational Learning on Performance\r\nin Healthcare Sector','Tamanna and Sanjeev K. Sharma','Impact of Knowledge Management and Organizational Learning on Performance in Healthcare Sector TAMANNA (2).pdf','',1,'','','','',''),(1790,'65','Spotting of Rostratula benghalensis, Greater\r\nPainted Snipe at Village Sail Saloon, Tehsil\r\nUdhampur Jammu & Kashmir, India','Brinder Kumar','JNBR_8(35)_2019.pdf','',1,'','','','',''),(1791,'65','Infestation of colonial ascidians on reef biota of\r\nGulf of Mannar Marine Biosphere Reserve, India','CH. Ramesh*, S. Koushik, T. Shunmugaraj, M.V. Ramana\r\nMurthy','JNBR_8(36)_2019.pdf','',1,'','','','',''),(1792,'69','Development of Mathematical Model of Bottom Hole Assembly for Rotary\r\nSteerable System ','Ya. I. Binder , E.E. Kharlamova , V.E. Kharlamov , V.P. Lozhechko , V.A. Smirnov and D.A. Sokolov','Development of Mathematical Model of Bottom Hole Assembly for Rotary Steerable System YAI.pdf','',1,'','','','',''),(1793,'69','Methods to assess Usability and Acceptability of Technologies for \r\nHome-based Rehabilitation a Systematic Review','G. Sgherri , M. Avola , E. Beani , C. Chisari G. Cioni and G. Sgandurra','Methods to assess Usability and Acceptability of Technologies for Home based Rehabilitation a Systematic Review Sgandurra Giuseppina.pdf','',1,'','','','',''),(1794,'60','A Preliminary Survey of Phytodiversity of Weeds from Rourkela Steel City, Sundargarh, Odisha, India SAMARENDRA NARAYAN MALLICK','Samarendra Narayan Mallick , Prabhat Kumar Das , Sanjeet Kumar and Baman Chandra Acharya','A Preliminary Survey of Phytodiversity of Weeds from Rourkela Steel City, Sundargarh, Odisha, India SAMARENDRA NARAYAN MALLICK.pdf','',1,'Weeds are the plants with generally undesirable properties. They spread rapidly and competitively. When it grows in garden it reduces air flow in garden, keeping plants wetter and more prone to pathogens. Rourkela, in the north-eastern part of Odisha state is one of the major steel industrial centres of India and regarded as the industrial capital of Odisha. The present study focuses on the weed diversity of non forest and crop fields of Rourkela and adjoining areas in the district of Sundargarh of Odisha state. A total of 180 weed species under 140 genera belonging to 11 monocot families, 42 dicot families and one pteridophytic family are reported in this investigation. Out of 54 families, the pre-dominance of weeds is shown by Poaceae with 22 species while Asteraceae showed second highest with 21 species, followed by Amaranthaceae, Fabaceae and Acanthaceae and Euphorbiaceae each having 8 and 9 species respectively. Cynodon dactylon, Chromolaena odoratrum, Achyranthes aspera, Parthe','Rourkela Steel City, Sundargarh, Weeds, Phytodiversity, Sundargarh','This study is based on the open fields, wastelands, croplands as well as in the non forest lands where diversity of seasonal weeds are grown. Due to better development of the area, increase in population and rapid industrization, many useful species may become endangered in future. So they should be recorded and identified along with their usefulness, ethnobotanical uses before their extinction. As the total flora of the Rourkela city as well as Sundargarh district have not been fully explored about the flora the present study will provide the baseline information on the total flora of Rourkela of Sundargarh district. It will be helpful in preparation of district flora of Sundargarh as well as weed management of the area.','-','Mallick, S.N., Das, P.K. Kumar, S., and Acharya, B.C. (2019). A Preliminary Survey of Phytodiversity of Weeds from Rourkela Steel City, Sundargarh, Odisha, India. Biological Forum - An International Journal, 11(2): 157-164.'),(1795,'53','Analysis of Video Streaming based on Canny Edge Detection \r\nAlgorithm','Deep Singh and Amit Shrivastava','Analysis of Video Streaming Based on Canny Edge Detection Algorithm DEEP SINGH & AMIT SHRIVASTAVA.pdf','',1,'','','','',''),(1796,'53','A Review on Multimodal Medical Image Fusion Based on DWT','Anup Kumar and Anil Khandelwal','A Review on Multimodal Medical Image Fusion Based on DWT AMIT SHRIVASTAVA.pdf','',1,'','','','',''),(1797,'71','Analysis of Multimodal Medical Image Fusion using Discrete Wavelet Transform','Anup Kumar and Anil Khandelwal','Analysis of Multimodal Medical Image Fusion using Discrete Wavelet Transform.pdf','',1,'','','','',''),(1798,'69','Soil Quarrying for Brick Kiln and Its Impact on Environment: A Study in Tufanganj Block-I, Koch Bihar, West Bengal','Nazrul Islam','Soil Quarrying for Brick Kiln and Its Impact on Environment A Study in Tufanganj Block-I, Koch Bihar, West Bengal Dr. Nazrul Islam.pdf','',1,'','','','',''),(1799,'69','Multiple Clip conditions on Chemically Reacting Flow of MHD Jeffrey Fluid over\r\nVertical surface in a Suspension of Brownian Motion and Thermophoresis','D. Manjula and K. Jayalakshmi','Multiple Clip conditions on Chemically Reacting Flow of MHD Jeffrey Fluid over Vertical surface in a Suspension of Brownian Motion and Thermophoresis D MANJULA.pdf','',1,'','','','',''),(1800,'69','QSAR and Molecular Descriptor Analysis of Substituted 5-(-2 â€“ methoxy\r\nbenzylidene) - Rhodanine Ester Analogs as aldose Reductase Inhibitory Activity','Jyoti Pandey, Arun K. Gupta and Ritu M. Gilhotra','QSAR and Molecular Descriptor Analysis of Substituted 5-_-2 â€“ methoxy benzylidene_ - Rhodanine Ester Analogs as aldose Reductase Inhibitory Activity JYOTI PANDEY.pdf','',1,'','','','',''),(1801,'69','Quality Preserving ICOA for ARH','G. Bhavani and S. Sivakumari','Quality Preserving ICOA for ARH G.pdf','',1,'','','','',''),(1802,'72','An Integrated IoT System Pathway for Smart Cities','Abdulkadir A. Adamu, Dong Wang, Ayodeji Olalekan Salau and Olasupo Ajayi','An Integrated IoT System Pathway for Smart Cities Ayodeji Olalekan Salau.pdf','',1,'','','','',''),(1803,'65','The essential oil of Algerian Ephedra alata subsp.\r\nalenda and its antimicrobial properties','O. Chouitah','JNBR_8(8)_2019.pdf','',1,'','','','',''),(1804,'65','Emergence of Plasmid Bearing Acinetobacter\r\nbaumannii and Pseudomonas aeruginosa Isolates\r\nwith High Multiple Antibiotic Resistance Index,\r\nIndia','Manisha Mandal, Saumendra Nath Das, Shyamapada\r\nMandal','JNBR_8(9)_2019.pdf','',1,'','','','',''),(1805,'72','Forecasting the Probability of Cost Overrun Risk of Indian Construction Projects\r\nusing Fuzzy Model','Savita Sharma, Pradeep K. Goyal and R.C. Chhipa','Forecasting the Probability of Cost Overrun Risk of Indian Construction Projects using Fuzzy Model.pdf','',1,'','','','',''),(1806,'72','A Cognizant Study of Machine Learning in Predicting Cervical Cancer at various\r\nLevels-A Data Mining concept','S. Geeitha and M. Thangamani','A Cognizant Study of Machine Learning in Predicting Cervical Cancer at various Levels-A Data Mining concept GEEITHA.pdf','',1,'','','','',''),(1807,'72','Analyzing the Design of the Octagonal Patch Antenna at 67 GHz with Altering\r\nDimensions','Ramakrishna Guttula1 and Venkateswararao Nandanavanam2','Analyzing the Design of the Octagonal Patch Antenna at 67 GHz with Altering Dimensions Ramakrishna Guttula.pdf','',1,'','','','',''),(1808,'72','Supply Chain Management of Food Processing Industry in Manipur: Challenges\r\nand Perspectives','Thokchom Suranjoy Singh and Sunildro L.S. Akoijam','Supply Chain Management of Food Processing Industry in Manipur Challenges and Perspectives Sunildro LS Akoijam.pdf','',1,'','','','',''),(1809,'72','Taxonomy of Routing Protocols in Wireless Sensor Networks: A Survey','Harmeet Singh , Manju Bala and Sukhvinder S. Bamber','Taxonomy of Routing Protocols in Wireless Sensor Networks A Survey HARMEET SINGH.pdf','',1,'','','','',''),(1810,'72','Analysis of Sex Trafficking in India- A View on Health Care Context','R. Aarthee and D. Ezhilmaran','Analysis of Sex Trafficking in India- A View on Health Care Context R.pdf','',1,'','','','',''),(1811,'72','Flood Hazard Zonation of Bhagirathi River basin using Multi-Criteria DecisionAnalysis in Uttarakhand, India','Piyush Gourav , Rajesh Kumar , Akhilesh Gupta and Mohammad Arif ','Flood Hazard Zonation of Bhagirathi River basin using Multi-Criteria Decision-Analysis in Uttarakhand, India PIYUSH GOURAV.pdf','',1,'','','','',''),(1812,'72','Conception of Drainage Morphometry by using Remote Sensing and GIS','Hridayesh Varma , Jyoti Sarup and S. K. Mittal','Conception of Drainage Morphometry by using Remote Sensing and GIS Hridayesh Varma.pdf','',1,'','','','',''),(1813,'72','Effect of Earth Pressure Coefficient on Underground Metro Station','Madan Magdum and Bilavari Karkare','Effect of Earth Pressure Coefficient on Underground Metro Station Madan Magdum.pdf','',1,'','','','',''),(1814,'72','Multi Tumor Classification in MR Brain Images through deep Feature Extraction using CNN and Supervised Classifier','Anilkumar B. and P. Rajesh Kumar','Multi Tumor Classification in MR Brain Images through deep Feature Extraction using CNN and Supervised Classifier Anil Kumar B.pdf','',1,'','','','',''),(1815,'72','Assessment of Pavement Shoulder Condition in Rural Roads','Rumi Sutradhar and Manish Pal','Assessment of Pavement Shoulder Condition in Rural Roads Rumi Sutradhar.pdf','',1,'','','','',''),(1816,'72','Overlapping Community Structure Detection using Twitter Data','Sathiyakumari K. and Vijaya M.S.','Overlapping Community Structure Detection using Twitter Data Sathiyakumari K.pdf','',1,'','','','',''),(1817,'72','Childrenâ€™s Predilections Concerning the Fast- Foods/Junk- Foods in Saudi Arabia','Mohammad Zulfeequar Alam','Childrenâ€™s Predilections Concerning the Fast- FoodsJunk- Foods in Saudi Arabia Mohammad Zulfeequar Alam.pdf','',1,'','','','',''),(1818,'72','Effect of Antioxidants on the Storage Stability of Biodiesel Produced from Jatropha curcas','Gaurav Vohra , Vineet Kumar , Harmeet Singh and Radhey Sham','Effect of Antioxidants on the Storage Stability of Biodiesel Produced from Jatropha curcas Vineet Kumar.pdf','',1,'','','','',''),(1819,'72','Utilizing an Artificial Neural Network Model to Predict Bearing Capacity of Stone Columns','Nesreen Kurdy Al-obaidy and Assad Al-Shueli','Utilizing an Artificial Neural Network Model to Predict Bearing Capacity of Stone Columns Nesreen Kurdy Al-obaidy.pdf','',1,'','','','',''),(1820,'72','A Kaleidoscopic View on the Impact of Financial Knowledge on Investment Decision of Individual Investors','Mercy Silvester , Vijaya Kumar and Nishad Nawaz','A Kaleidoscopic View on the Impact of Financial Knowledge on Investment Decision of Individual Investors Nishad Nawaz.pdf','',1,'','','','',''),(1821,'72','Gated Recurrent Neural Network for Autism Spectrum Disorder Gene Prediction','V. Pream Sudha and M. S. Vijaya','Gated Recurrent Neural Network for Autism Spectrum Disorder Gene Prediction V. Pream Sudha.pdf','',1,'','','','',''),(1823,'72','Energy Efficient Cross- Layer (EECL) Approach for WBAN using Hybrid Protocol','A. Angel Cerli and K. Kalaiselvi','Energy Efficient Cross- Layer _EECL_ Approach for WBAN using Hybrid Protocol A.pdf','',1,'','','','',''),(1824,'72','Corpus Augmentation for Neural Machine Translation with English-Punjabi Parallel Corpora','Simran Kaur Jolly and Rashmi Agrawal','Corpus Augmentation for Neural Machine Translation with English-Punjabi Parallel Corpora Simran Kaur Jolly.pdf','',1,'','','','',''),(1825,'72','Deep Learning Approach for Partitioning of Teeth in Panoramic Dental X-Ray Images','Peer Ahamed Buhari M. and Kother Mohideen','Deep Learning Approach for Partitioning of Teeth in Panoramic Dental X-Ray Images Peer Ahamed Buhari.pdf','',1,'','','','',''),(1826,'20','Amelioration of Food Insecurity by Enhancing of the Quality Control and Socio-Economics aspects of Street Vended Foodstuffs in Delhi','Sandeep Kumar Sharma , Mamta Chhabra Sharma and Santosh Kumar Yadav','Amelioration of Food Insecurity by Enhancing of the Quality Control and Socio-Economics aspects of Street Vended Foodstuffs in Delhi SANDEEP KUMAR SHARMA.pdf','',1,'','','','',''),(1827,'39','Understanding the Marginal Role of Women in Disaster Resilence in India','Sandeep K Sharma , Mamta Chhabra Sharma and Santosh Kumar Yadav','Understanding the Marginal Role of Women in Disaster Resilence in India SANDEEP KUMAR SHARMA.pdf','',1,'','','','',''),(1828,'72','Optimal Association Rule Mining for Web Page Prediction using Hybrid Heuristic Trained Neural Network','Roshan A. Gangurde and Binod Kumar','Optimal Association Rule Mining for Web Page Prediction using Hybrid Heuristic Trained Neural Network Roshan A.pdf','',1,'','','','',''),(1829,'72','Repellency Effect of Synthetic Volatiles and Essential Oils against Callosobruchus maculatus and Tribolium castaneum','C. Kathirvelu , S. Mangayarkarsi and B. Kanagaraj','Repellency Effect of Synthetic Volatiles and Essential Oils against -1036-DR. C.pdf','',1,'','','','',''),(1830,'34','On the Construction of Non Primitive Narrow Sense Quantum BCH Codes','Divya Taneja','On the Construction of Non Primitive Narrow Sense Quantum BCH Codes Divya Taneja.pdf','',1,'','','','',''),(1831,'71','A Review of Techniques used for Edge Detection in Image','Abhilash Kumar Patel and Anil Khandelwal','A Review of Techniques used for Edge Detection in Image ABHILASH K PATEL.pdf','',1,'','','','',''),(1832,'72','A Study on Winter-time Roll Clouds over the Arabian Sea using INSAT-3D Satellite Observations','Pooja Rana and V. Sathiyamoorthy','A Study on Winter-time Roll Clouds over the Arabian Sea using INSAT-3D Satellite Observations 1454-Pooja Rana.pdf','',1,'','','','',''),(1833,'72','Single-Phase Transformer-less Inverter Circuit Configurations for Photovoltaic Applications','R. Selvamathi and V. Indragandhi','Single-Phase Transformer-less Inverter Circuit Configurations for Photovoltaic Applications -V.pdf','',1,'','','','',''),(1834,'72','Case Study of a Manufacturing unit of West Bengal by using JavaScript for Calculation of Overall Equipment Effectiveness','Raju Ranjan and Malay Niraj','Case Study of a Manufacturing unit of West Bengal by using JavaScript for Calculation of Overall Equipment Effectiveness Raju Ranjan.pdf','',1,'','','','',''),(1835,'72','Review on Delay Factors due to Improper Construction Equipment Management','B. Indhu and K. Yogeswari','Review on Delay Factors due to Improper Construction Equipment Management B.pdf','',1,'','','','',''),(1836,'72','Mechanical Properties of Fly Ash filled GFRP Composite Material','Mohan Kumar B. , Sathish S. and S. Soundeswaran','Mechanical properties of Fly Ash filled GFRP Composite Material MOHAN KUMAR B.pdf','',1,'','','','',''),(1837,'72','Performance Analysis of Phase Reconfiguration on Distribution Systems with \r\nDistributed Generation','Raju B. Sreenivasa and S. Sivanagaraju','Performance Analysis of Phase Reconfiguration on Distribution Systems with Distributed Generation-Raju B.pdf','',1,'','','','',''),(1838,'72','Fuzzified System for Learner Behavior Analysis','Varsha P. Desai K.S. Oza and R.K. Kamat','Fuzzified System for Learner Behavior Analysis Varsha P.pdf','',1,'','','','',''),(1839,'72','Hedging and Portfolio Optimization of Indian Index Futures Contracts using Multivariate GARCH Models','Anuja Gupta , Manoj Jha and Namita Srivastava','Hedging and Portfolio Optimization of Indian Index Futures Contracts using Multivariate GARCH Models-ANUJA GUPTA.pdf','',1,'','','','',''),(1840,'72','Optimal Location of Static VAR Compensator using Evolutionary Optimization Techniques','Rahul Agrawal , S.K. Bharadwaj and Kishor C. Muley','Optimal Location of Static VAR Compensator using Evolutionary Optimization Techniques DR.pdf','',1,'','','','',''),(1841,'72','A Machine Learning Approach of Data Mining in Agriculture 4.0','Mahendra Swain , Rajesh Singh, Amit Kumar Thakur and Anita Gehlot','A Machine Learning Approach of Data Mining in Agriculture4.pdf','',1,'','','','',''),(1842,'72','Assessment of Land Use and Land Cover Dynamics in Shingla River Basin Using Multi Temporal Satellite Imageries','Abdullah Salim Khan and Anisa Basheer Khan','Assessment of Land Use and Land Cover Dynamics in Shingla River Basin Using Multi Temporal Satellite Imageries Basheer Khan 1474.pdf','',1,'','','','',''),(1843,'72','Estimated Value of Hidden Markov Model Parameters for NS5 methyltransferase Protein of Dengue Virus','Nidhi Katiyar, Ravindra Nath and Shashwat Katiyar','Estimated Value of Hidden Markov Model Parameters for NS5 methyltransferase Protein of Dengue Virus NIDHI KATIYAR.pdf','',1,'','','','',''),(1844,'72','Bose Einstein 1 and Bose Einstein 2 Model for Optimal Query Expansion','Abhishek Kumar Shukla and Sujoy Das','Bose Einstein 1 and Bose Einstein 2 Model for Optimal Query Expansion ABHISHEK SHUKLA.pdf','',1,'','','','',''),(1845,'72','Effect of Financial Performance on Corporate Social Responsibility and Stock Price: A Study of BSE Listed Companies','Om Prakash Agrawal, Prateek Kumar Bansal and Shashank Kathpal','Effect of Financial Performance on Corporate Social Responsibility and Stock Price A Study of BSE Listed Companies Om Prakash Agrawal.pdf','',1,'','','','',''),(1846,'73','Investigating the leaf architecture of Eupolypods\r\nI (Polypodiales): implications to taxonomy','Jeanette Mara P. Tan*, Inocencio E. Buot, Jr.','JNBR_9(1)_2020.pdf','',1,'','','','',''),(1847,'73','New records of wood decay fungi from mangrove\r\nforest of Gilakaladindi, Krishna district, Andhra\r\nPradesh, India','Praveen Kumar Nagadesi','JNBR_9(2)_2020.pdf','',1,'','','','',''),(1848,'73','Combitorial effect of Lactobacillus acidophilus\r\nand Brevibacillus brevis as biopreservative to\r\nextend shelf life of curd','Dhasarathan P C. Padmalatha, A J A Ranjitsingh','JNBR_9(3)_2020.pdf','',1,'','','','',''),(1849,'73','Checklist of the family Fabaceae in Gautam\r\nBuddha Wildlife Sanctuary, Bihar & Jharkhand','Anand Kumar','JNBR_9(4)_2020.pdf','',1,'','','','',''),(1850,'72','High Gain Reconfigurable Notch Band Antenna with FSS for Wireless Communication Applications','V. Lokesh Raju, V. Rajya Lakshmi and M. Satya Anuradha','High Gain Reconfigurable Notch Band Antenna with FSS for Wireless Communication Applications Vysyaraju Lokesh Raju.pdf','',1,'','','','',''),(1851,'72','Cloud Streets Occurrence over the Arabian Sea during Summer Monsoon Season','V. Sathiyamoorthy and Pooja Rana','Cloud Streets Occurrence over the Arabian Sea during Summer Monsoon Season Pooja Rana.pdf','',1,'','','','',''),(1852,'72','Role of Biosensors in Real Time Applications','Deepika Jain , Ruchi Pasricha and Bikram Pal Kaur','Role of Biosensors in Real Time Applications DEEPIKA JAIN.pdf','',1,'','','','',''),(1853,'72','Medical Image Compression using ANN Model','M. Laxmi Prasanna Rani , G. Sasibhushana Rao and B. Prabhakara Rao','Medical Image Compression using ANN Model M.pdf','',1,'','','','',''),(1854,'72','Comparative Analysis of PAPR Reduction in PTS-OFDM Using Different\r\nOptimization Techniques','K. Krishna Kishore and P. Rajesh Kumar','Comparative Analysis of PAPR Reduction in PTS-OFDM Using Different Optimization Techniques -K.pdf','',1,'','','','',''),(1855,'72','An Analytical View of the Moderating Effect of Gender on Online Purchase Behavior','Raeesa Bashir , Bhawna Gaur and Bhoopesh Kumar Sharma','An Analytical View of the Moderating Effect of Gender on Online Purchase Behavior Raeesa Bashir.pdf','',1,'','','','',''),(1856,'72','Does Religiosity Impacts Consumer Ethics: An Empirical Analysis','Shashank Kathpal, Mohd. Imran Siddiquei and Om Prakash Agrawal','Does Religiosity Impacts Consumer Ethics An Empirical Analysis Shashank Kathpal.pdf','',1,'','','','',''),(1857,'72','Performance Analysis of Machine Learning Techniques with Dimension Reduction for Lower Back Pain Disorder','Ramandeep Singh Chowdhary and Mainak Basu','Performance Analysis of Machine Learning Techniques with Dimension Reduction for Lower Back Pain Disorder RAMANDEEP SINGH CHOWDHARY.pdf','',1,'','','','',''),(1858,'72','A Novel Channel Sensing Mechanism for Cognitive Radio Systems','A.J. Divya Lakshmi and Rangaiah L.','A Novel Channel Sensing Mechanism for Cognitive Radio Systems J.pdf','',1,'','','','',''),(1859,'72','Performance Evaluation of Real Time Spectrum Sensing in Cognitive Radio Networks','Shruti Bhandari and Sunil Joshi','Performance Evaluation of Real Time Spectrum Sensing in Cognitive Radio Networks Shruti_Bhandari.pdf','',1,'','','','',''),(1862,'74','Population Status of Two Threatened species, Trachycarpus takil (Hook) H. Wendl. and Cyathea spinulosa Wall, in the Pithoragarh district of Uttarakhand','A. Chandra*, P.K. Verma and H.B. Naithani','Population Status of Two Threatened species, Trachycarpus takil _Hook_ H. Wendl. and Cyathea spinulosa Wall, in the Pithoragarh district of Uttarakhand ANUP CHANDRA.pdf','',1,'Population status of two threatened species viz. Trachycarpus takil (Hook) H. Wendl. and Cyathea spinulosa Wall of Kumaon part of the Uttarakhand was studied. It was observed that these two species occur in localized parts near Thal and Kalamuni, Pithoragarh, Uttarakhand. Per hectare density of Trachycarpus takil and Cyathea spinolosa was estimated to be 1.5 and 0.15 P ha-1 respectively. As population of these two species is very low, suitable should be taken to restore the dwindling population of species. It is suggested that local villagers, researchers, students etc. should be made aware about declining population and conservation strategies for these species through awareness programmes. Suitable micro-propagation techniques should be developed for multiplication and conservation of species.','Density, Threatened species, Conservation, Micro-propagation. ','Population status of two threatened species viz. Trachycarpus takil (Hook) H. Wendl. and Cyathea spinulosa Wall of Kumaon part of the Uttarakhand was studied. It was observed that these two species occur in localized parts near Thal and Kalamuni, Pithoragarh, Uttarakhand. Per hectare density of Trachycarpus takil and Cyathea spinolosa was estimated to be 1.5 and 0.15 P ha-1 respectively. As population of these two species is very low, suitable should be taken to restore the dwindling population of species. It is suggested that local villagers, researchers, students etc. should be made aware about declining population and conservation strategies for these species through awareness programmes. Suitable micro-propagation techniques should be developed for multiplication and conservation of species.','-','Chandra, Anup, Verma, P.K. and Naithani, H.B. (2020). Population Status of Two Threatened species, Trachycarpus takil (Hook) H. Wendl. and Cyathea spinulosa Wall, in the Pithoragarh district of Uttarakhand. Biological Forumâ€“An International Journal, 1'),(1863,'74','Control of Codling Moth (Cydia pomonella) in Ladakh by different Methods to\r\nSave Fruit Industry','Tajamul Nissar and Purnima Shrivastava','Control of Codling Moth _Cydia pomonella_ in Ladakh by different Methods to Save Fruit Industry Tajamul Nissar.pdf','',1,'The aim of the present work is to study the codling moth infestation rate and its control by using different techniques. To calculate the population of codling moth from the orchardâ€™s of Ladakh for the sake of convenience three orchards were selected from the Union territory of Ladakh. In which the delta traps were installed in Basgoo to monitor the population of codling moth and to see the effect of delta traps on the infestation caused by codling moth. Delta traps containing lures loaded with codlimone (E, E)-8, 10-doddecadien-1-ol the sex attractant which attracts male moths towards trap. Another orchard was selected from the Nurla in which 3 insecticide were sprayed. The insecticide sprayed was chlorpyriphos @1ml per 1 litre. Another orchard Nimmu was taken as control in which no chemical or matting disruption material was dropped. The three traps were also installed in all the selected orchardâ€™s to monitor the population of codling. According to the plan the visits were conduc','Moths, infestation, delta traps, orchardâ€™s.','The work was completed in 6 months of season in which the codling moth is at bloom. It was concluded that the codling moth (Cydia pomonella) the most dangerous pest of apple fruit can be controlled by many methods but the most appropriate one is the use of trap+3 insecticides. The Traps were used to control the codling moth population by means of mass trapping in Basgoo. The three insecticide sprays were applied to the site Nurla @ 1ml/litre these three sprays were sprayed month after moth .Three traps were also installed at every location to see effect of TRAP, 3 INSECTCIDES on the population of codling moth. The data taken was very fruitful in which we see the orchard Nurla was with Trap + 3 Insecticides was least infected followed by Basgoo in which only traps were installed was more effected than the Nurla. The orchard Nimmu which was taken as untreated was very highly affected and the trap catch in this orchard was very high. The lowest rap catch was at Nurla were traps + 3 inse','-','Nissar, Tajamul and Shrivastava, Purnima (2020). Control of Codling Moth (Cydia pomonella) in Ladakh by different Methods to Save Fruit Industry. Biological Forum â€“ An International Journal, 12(1): 04-10.'),(1864,'72','An Investigation on Bore-well Rescue Robotâ€“Present Devices and Techniques','Sriramireddy K.1, D. Satyanarayana and Ravikumar Mandava','An Investigation on Bore-well Rescue Robot â€“Present Devices and Techniques SRIRAMIREDDY K _1_.pdf','',1,'','','','',''),(1865,'72','Disturbance Observer Based Adaptive Sliding Mode Hybrid Projective Compound\r\nSynchronization','Ayub Khan, Nasreen, Harindri Chaudhary, Pushali Trikha and Lone Seth Jahanzaib','Disturbance Observer Based Adaptive Sliding Mode Hybrid Projective Compound Synchronization AYUB KHAN.pdf','',1,'','','','',''),(1866,'72','Corrosion behavior of TaC coated AZ31 Alloy','A. Danalakshmi, and A. Cyril','Corrosion behavior of TaC coated AZ31 Alloy A.pdf','',1,'','','','',''),(1867,'72','A Novel Approach for Creating Sentiment Lexicon for Movie Reviews using Star\r\nRatings','Shashank Sharma and Gautam Dutta','A Novel Approach for Creating Sentiment Lexicon for Movie Reviews using Star Ratings SHASHANK SHARMA.pdf','',1,'','','','',''),(1868,'72','Convergence of Abbas and Nazir Iterates for a Multi-valued Map with a Fixed\r\nPoint','Nisha Sharma and Arti Saxena','Convergence of Abbas and Nazir Iterates for a Multi-valued Map with a Fixed Point Arti Saxena.pdf','',1,'','','','',''),(1869,'70','Review on Ethnomedicinal Plant: Trillium govanianum Wall. Ex D. Don','Radha, Sunil Puri and Ashok Pundir','Review on Ethnomedicinal plant Trillium govanianum Wall. Ex D.pdf','',1,'','','','',''),(1870,'70','Time-fractional Thermoelastic Deflection of a Thin Clamped Circular Plate','Hamna Mirza','Time-fractional Thermoelastic Deflection of a Thin Clamped Circular Plate HAMNA MIRZA.pdf','',1,'','','','',''),(1871,'70','Rescue and Rehabilitation of Urban Snakes in Western Rajasthan with their Account','Akhlaq Husain and Sharad Prohit','Rescue and Rehabilitation of Urban Snakes in Western Rajasthan with their Account DR AKHLAQ HUSSAIN -FINAL.pdf','',1,'','','','',''),(1872,'72','Impact of Social Networking Analytics on Anxiety and Distress amongst Youth','Sonakshi Ruhela and Raeesa Bashir','Impact of Social Networking Analytics on Anxiety and Distress amongst Youth IJET-RT-1482-RAEESA BASHIR.pdf','',1,'','','','',''),(1873,'72','Design of AMBA AXI4-Lite for Effective Read/Write Transactions with a\r\nCustomized Memory','A. Sainath Chaithanya , Sameera Sulthana , B. Yamuna and Ch Haritha','Design of AMBA AXI4-Lite for Effective ReadWrite Transactions with a Customized Memory SAINATH CHAITANYA.pdf','',1,'','','','',''),(1874,'72','Data Authorization in Hadoop using Kerberos Authentication System and Transport Layer Security','Yallapragada Ravi Raju and Haritha Donavalli','Data Authorization in Hadoop using Kerberos Authentication System and Transport Layer Security YALLAPRAGADA.pdf','',1,'','','','',''),(1875,'72','Line Weight based PMU Placement for Observability in Test Case Power Systems','P. Lakshminaraya and Venkatesan M.','Line Weight based PMU Placement for Observability in Test Case Power Systems 1068 P.pdf','',1,'','','','',''),(1876,'72','An Efficient and Lightweight Security Scheme for Big Data','N. Sirisha and K.V.D. Kiran','An Efficient and Lightweight Security Scheme for Big Data N Sirisha.pdf','',1,'','','','',''),(1877,'75','Monitoring Arterial Pulse Waves with Optical Pulse Sensor to Detect the Effect of Aging and Gender','Tanima , Indu Saini and B. S. Saini','Monitoring Arterial Pulse Waves with Optical Pulse Sensor to Detect the Effect of Aging and Gender TANIMA AHUJA.pdf','',1,'','','','',''),(1878,'75','Detection of Mite Disease and Computation of Affected Area in Raw Coconut','S. Siddesha and S. K. Niranjan','Detection of Mite Disease and Computation of Affected Area in Raw Coconut.pdf','',1,'','','','',''),(1879,'75','IoT and Cloud based Feature Extraction and Classification Model for Automatic Glaucoma Detection','R. Anandh and G. Indirani','IoT and Cloud based Feature Extraction and Classification Model for Automatic Glaucoma Detection.pdf','',1,'','','','',''),(1880,'75','Fog Enabled Cloud based Intelligent Resource Management Approach using Improved Dynamical Particle Swarm Optimization model for Smart Home IoT Devices','R. Sudha and G. Indirani','Fog Enabled Cloud based Intelligent Resource Management Approach using Improved Dynamical Particle Swarm Optimization model for Smart Home IoT Devices R SUDHA.pdf','',1,'','','','',''),(1881,'75','A Sentiment Classification on Indian Government Schemes Using PySpark','E. Sujatha and R. Radha','A Sentiment Classification on Indian Government Schemes Using PySpark.pdf','',1,'','','','',''),(1882,'75','An Investigation on Pavement Shoulder Treatment using Coir Fiber','Rumi Sutradhar and Manish Pal','An Investigation on Pavement Shoulder Treatment using Coir Fiber RUMI SUTRADHAR.pdf','',1,'','','','',''),(1883,'72','A Survey of Biometric Key-Binding Biocrypto-System using different Techniques','Neeraj Tantubay and Jyoti Bharti','A Survey of Biometric Key-Binding Biocrypto-System using different Techniques IJET-RT-1491-CSE- Neeraj TantubayI_New.pdf','',1,'','','','',''),(1884,'75','Qualitative and Quantitative RP-HPLC-PDA Method of Analysis of Polyphenols in Lyophilized Wheat Seedling Juice Powder','Nandita Thakur, Harcharan Singh Dhaliwal and Vivek Sharma','Qualitative and Quantitative RP-HPLC-PDA Method of Analysis of Polyphenols in Lyophilized Wheat Seedling Juice Powder Vivek Sharma 1723.pdf','',1,'','','','',''),(1885,'75','Cardiac Arrhythmia Detection on Electrocardiogram Beats based on KPCA and SVR','S.T. Sanamdikar, S.T. Hamde and V.G. Asutkar','Cardiac Arrhythmia Detection on Electrocardiogram Beats based on KPCA and SVR 1537-EI-S.T.pdf','',1,'','','','',''),(1886,'75','IOT with Cloud based Smart Farming for Citrus Fruit Disease Classification using Optimized Convolutional Neural Networks','P. Sindhu and G. Indirani','IOT with Cloud based Smart Farming for Citrus Fruit Disease Classification using Optimized Convolutional Neural Networks 1596-P.pdf','',1,'','','','',''),(1887,'75','A Comprehensive Survey on Energy Efficient Routing Techniques and Various Attacks in Wireless Sensor Networks','Priyanka R. and Satyanarayan Reddy K.','A Comprehensive Survey on Energy Efficient Routing Techniques and Various Attacks in Wireless Sensor Networks 1652-IT-Priyanka.pdf','',1,'','','','',''),(1888,'75','Emerging Applications of Dentistry in Medico-Legal Practice- Forensic\r\nOdontology','Mayssa Hachem , Ahed Mohamed , Adithya Othayammadath , Jyoti Gaikwad and Tabian Hassanline','Emerging Applications of Dentistry in Medico-Legal Practice- Forensic Odontology 1490 Mayssa Hachem.pdf','',1,'','','','',''),(1889,'75','Molecular Docking Studies of Limonia acidissima Linn. Fruit Extract on Estrogen Receptor for Ovarian Cancer','A. Maryshyla and N.T. Nevaditha','Molecular Docking Studies of Limonia acidissima Linn. Fruit Extract on Estrogen Receptor for Ovarian Cancer 1425 A.pdf','',1,'','','','',''),(1890,'73','Camellia sinensis var. dulcamara (Camellia, Theaceae), a new var. and subvar. recorded for sect. Thea from Northern Vietnam','Quang - Ung Le a, Duy - Lam Nguyenb , Liang â€“ Horng Layc','JNBR_9_1_2020.pdf','',1,'','','','',''),(1891,'73','Remarks on the types of two 19th century Arundinaria names (Poaceae)','Anand Kumar','JNBR_9_2_2020.pdf','',1,'','','','',''),(1892,'73','Checklist of Odonate Fauna (Insecta : Odonata) of Nagpur, Maharashtra, India','Pawan U. Gajbe','JNBR_9_3_2020.pdf','',1,'','','','',''),(1893,'73','A new record of ethno-veterinary practice using Tinosphora rumphii Boerl. among goat raisers in Southern Mindanao, Philippines','Florence Roy P. SalvaÃ±a, Elma G. Sepelagio , Carlito B. Sanchez','JNBR_9_4_2020.pdf','',1,'','','','',''),(1894,'75','Harmonic Univalent Functions Associated with âˆ’Hypergeometric Functions','K.V. Vidyasagar','Harmonic Univalent Functions Associated with l-Hypergeometric Functions 1678-K. V.pdf','',1,'','','','',''),(1903,'75','Performance Analysis of Sequential Rule Mining Techniques for Web Page\r\nRecommendation System','Satyaveer Singh and Mahendra Singh Aswal','Performance Analysis of Sequential Rule Mining Techniques for Web Page Recommendation System-1368-Satyaveer Singh.pdf','',1,'','','','',''),(1904,'75','Sway of Demography-Based Factors over the Decision-Making Procedure\r\nPertaining to Household Investors','Amit Agrawal and Somesh Dhamija','Sway of Demography-Based Factors over the Decision-Making Procedure Pertaining to Household Investors AMIT AGRAWAL 1507.pdf','',1,'','','','',''),(1905,'75','Studying the Safety of the Antiviral Preparation Triazavirin','Tatiana Ivanovna Reshetnikova , Alexander Sergeyevich Zenkin , Vladimir Alekseevich Stolyarov , Elvira Vladimirovna Rodina and Valery Nikolayevich Rodin','Studying the Safety of the Antiviral Preparation Triazavirin TATIANA.pdf','',1,'','','','',''),(1906,'75','Secured Ant Colony Optimization based on Energy Trust System for Replica Node Attack Detection','S. Anitha, P. Jayanthi, K. Lalitha and V. Chandrasekaran','Secured Ant Colony Optimization based on Energy Trust System for Replica Node Attack Detection 1450-ANITHA.pdf','',1,'','','','',''),(1907,'75','Data Driven Diagnosis of Cervical Cancer using Association Rule Mining with Trivial Rule Expulsion Approach','K. Logeswaran , P. Suresh , S. Savitha , K. R. Prasanna Kumar A. P. Ponselvakumar and A. Rajiv Kannan','Data Driven Diagnosis of Cervical Cancer using Association Rule Mining with Trivial Rule Expulsion Approach K.pdf','',1,'','','','',''),(1908,'75','Analysis of Master Disguised Writing with the Aid of Specific Individual Writing Characteristics','Bhoopesh Kumar Sharma , Kiran Kumar Yadava Vajjey , Raeesa Bashir and S. Raghuraghavendra','Analysis of Master Disguised Writing with the Aid of Specific Individual Writing Characteristics DR BHOOPESH SHARMA.pdf','',1,'','','','',''),(1909,'75','Pricing of Mobile Telephony Services in India','Ajit Shankar and Kishore Kumar Morya','Pricing of Mobile Telephony Services in India Ajit Shankar.pdf','',1,'','','','',''),(1910,'75','Development of Hybrid Ad Hoc on Demand Distance Vector Routing Protocol in Mobile Ad hoc Network','Ankur Goyal , Vivek Kumar Sharma and Sandeep Kumar','Development of Hybrid Ad Hoc on Demand Distance Vector Routing Protocol in Mobile Ad hoc Network Ankur Goyal 1658.pdf','',1,'','','','',''),(1911,'72','Configuration of Design and Engineering Parameters of Aircraft','A.A. Gorbunov, A.D. Pripadchev, V.V. Elagin, Y.V. Kondrov and E.M. Ezerskaya','Configuration of Design and Engineering Parameters of Aircraft 1251-A.A.pdf','',1,'','','','',''),(1912,'72','Kazakhstan Beef Cattle Indices','A.T. Bissembayev, A.S. Shamshidin, E.G. Nassambaev, A.E. Seitmuratov, J.M. Kasenov, A.T. Abylgazinova and N.M. Gubashev','Kazakhstan Beef Cattle Indices 1382-Bissembayev.pdf','',1,'','','','',''),(1913,'72','Comparative Study of Effectiveness of Peripheral Dose of Linear Accelerator \r\nBeam on Organs near the Radiotherapy Field Edge in Complete and Half Field \r\nSize X-ray Beam Techniques','Nashwan K. Abdulkareem and Fatiheea F. Hassan','Comparative Study of Effectiveness of Peripheral Dose of Linear Accelerator Beam on Organs near the Radiotherapy Field Edge in Complete, and Half Rahim Abdulkarimi 1468.pdf','',1,'','','','',''),(1914,'72','Packet Classification Algorithms and Methods: A Critical Review','Midde Adiseshaiah and M. Sailaja','Packet Classification Algorithms and Methods A Critical Review Midde Adiseshaiah.pdf','',1,'','','','',''),(1915,'75','Development of Hybrid Ad Hoc on Demand Distance Vector Routing Protocol in\r\nMobile Ad hoc Network','Ankur Goyal, Vivek Kumar Sharma and Sandeep Kumar','Development of Hybrid Ad Hoc on Demand Distance Vector Routing Protocol in Mobile Ad hoc Network Ankur Goyal 1658.pdf','',1,'','','','',''),(1916,'75','A Novel IoT Architecture Based Healthcare Monitoring System','Anil Wamanrao and R.L. Raibagkar','A Novel IoT Architecture Based Healthcare Monitoring System Anil Wamanrao.pdf','',1,'','','','',''),(1917,'75','Reduced Power Consumption in Wireless Sensor Networks with Min (N, T) Policy\r\nbased M/G/1 Queue in Rayleigh Fading Channel','Sanjeev Ghosh and Srija Unnikrishnan','Reduced Power Consumption in Wireless Sensor Networks with Min _N, T_ Policy based MG1 Queue in Rayleigh Fading Channel 1737 Sanjeev Ghosh.pdf','',1,'','','','',''),(1918,'72','Features of Specialization and Placement of Oil Crops Production in Krasnoyarsk\r\nKrai','Natalia Ivanovna Pyzhikova, Lidiya Aleksandrovna Ovsyanko and Kristina Viktorovna Chepeleva','Features of Specialization and Placement of Oil Crops Production in Krasnoyarsk Krai 1399 Natalia Ivanovna Pyzhikova.pdf','',1,'','','','',''),(1919,'72','Optimized Locations for Biomass Power Plants using Ant Lion Optimizer in\r\nDistrict Bathinda, Punjab, India','Ram Singh and Gursewak Singh Brar','Optimized Locations for Biomass Power Plants using Ant Lion Optimizer in District Bathinda Punjab India 1820 Ram Singhj1.pdf','',1,'','','','',''),(1920,'75','Factors Affecting Investors Sentiments: A Review of the Literature','Khusboo Srivastava ','Factors Affecting Investors Sentiments A review of the Literature KHUSHBOO SRIVASTAVA.pdf','',1,'','','','',''),(1921,'75','Soybean Root Dynamics (Glycine max (L.) Merrill) on Balance of Fertilization and\r\nGarden Populations on different Varieties of Soy Cane Intercropping System ','Abdul Jalil, Iskandar Umarie and Bagus Tripama','Soybean Root Dynamics Glycine max L.pdf','',1,'','','','',''),(1922,'75','Enhanced Feature Fusion and Selection Method for Improving Tablet Recognition ','A. B. Dhivya and M. Sundaresan','1843 Enhanced Feature Fusion and Selection Method for Improving Tablet Recognition 1843 AB.pdf','',1,'','','','',''),(1923,'75','Selection of Optimal Parameters for Reduction of Forging Defect using AHPTOPSIS Technique ','A. Panwar , R. Kumar , R. Thakur2 , B. Goel , A. Rana , A. Pathania4 and V. Aggarwal','Selection of Optimal Parameters for Reduction of Forging Defect using AHPTOPSIS Technique RAJ KUMAR.pdf','',1,'','','','',''),(1924,'74','New Sighting Records of Asian Emerald Dove Chalcophaps Indica Indica\r\n(Linnaeus, 1758) from North-Eastern Doon Valley (Dehra Dun, Uttarakhand) and\r\nits Account with Distribution','Akhlaq Husain','3 New Sighting Records of Asian Emerald Dove Chalcophaps Indica Indica Linnaeus 1758 from North-Eastern Doon Valley Dehra Dun Uttarakhand and its Account with Distribution DR AKHLAQ HUSSAIN.pdf','',1,'','','','',''),(1925,'74','Morphological Description and Ecological Status of Hawkmoths (Lepidoptera:\r\nSphingidae) in Three Vegetation Types of Mt. Kitanglad, Lirongan, Lantapan,\r\nBukidnon, Philippines','Michelle Senobin Suelo, Reggie Y. Dela Cruz, Aprille Joy M. Luceno and Alma B. Mohagan','Morphological Description and Ecological Status of Hawkmoths Lepidoptera Sphingidae in Three Vegetation Types of Mt Kitanglad Lirongan Lantapan Bukidnon Philippines MICHELLE SENOBIN SUELOj1.pdf','',1,'Moths are said to have an important ecological role on the stability of terrestrial environment. In this paper, we listed species moths that were collected in three vegetation types in Mt. Kitanglad namely dipterocarp forest, montane forest and agro ecosystem. Thirty three individuals of hawkmoths were collected, and composed of thirteen species namely: Acherontia lachesis, Agrius convolvuli, Ambulyx staudingeri, Amplypterus panopusmindanaoensis, Daphnis hypothous, Gnathothlibus erotus erotus, Hippotion brunneum, Hippotion echeclus, Psilogramma menephron, Theretra nessus, Theretra rhesus, Theretra manilae, Theretra sugii and was described based on the: a) general color of their eyes, thorax, abdomen, and the wings and b) length of the eyes, antennae, hook, proboscis, prothorax, mesothorax, metathorax, forewing, hindwing, legs, eight segments of the abdomen, spine, total body length and wingspread. These morphological descriptions can be the basis of its identification. There are ','Dipterocarp forest, Agro ecosystem, Montane forest, Rare endemic, Common endemic.','A total of thirteen species of hawkmoths belonging to nine genera namely: Acherontia, Agrius, Ambulyx, Amplypterus, Daphnis, Gnathothlibus, Hippotion, Psilogramma and Theretra were collected on three vegetation types of Mt Kitanglad namely: montane forest, dipterocarp forest and agro ecosystem. Morphological characteristics that separate genera is in terms of size and color patterns, however for the species level is the presence of spots, dots or bands, color patterns on wings and size. There are 2 rare endemic species, 2 common endemic species, 2 uncommon or local and 7 are Southeast Asia endemic species of hawkmoths were recorded in the study.','-','Suelo, M.S., Cruz, R.Y.D., LuceÃ±o, A.J.M. and Mohagan, A.B. (2020). Morphological Description and Ecological Status of Hawkmoths (Lepidoptera: Sphingidae) in Three VegatationTypes of Mt. Kitanglad, Lirongan, Lantapan, Bukidnon, Philippines. Biological '),(1926,'75','A Civilized Method to Fetal Brain Segmentation with U-Net Architecture using\r\nOptimal Semantic Blend Algorithm','N. Suresh Kumar1 and Tapas Kumar2','28 A Civilized Method to Fetal Brain Segmentation with U-Net Architecture using Optimal Semantic Blend Algorithm N SURESH KUMAR.pdf','',1,'','','','',''),(1927,'75','Development of Manufacturing Enterprises in the Context of the New\r\nTechnological Revolution','A.V. Veretyokhin, V.M. Yachmeneva, O.V. Sevastyanova, Z.O. Osmanova and E.F. Yachmenev','29 Development of Manufacturing Enterprises in the Context of the New Technological Revolution Andrey Veretyokhin.pdf','',1,'','','','',''),(1928,'75','Comparative Performance Analysis of Apache Spark and Map reduce using KMeans','E. Laxmi Lydia1, R.M. Vidhyavathi2, Irina Pustokhina3 and Denis Alexandrovich Pustokhin4','30 Comparative Performance Analysis of Apache Spark and Map reduce using K-Means E.pdf','',1,'','','','',''),(1929,'75','Perspective Study on Content Based Video Retrieval','C. Victoria Priscilla1 and D. Rajeshwari2','31 Perspective Study on Content Based Video Retrieval C.pdf','',1,'','','','',''),(1930,'75','Design and Implementation of Real-time Amphibious Unmanned Aerial Vehicle\r\nSystem for Sowing Seed Balls in the Agriculture Field','M. Arun Kumar1*, Nagarjuna Telagam1, N. Mohankumar1, K. Mohamed Ismail2 and T. Rajasekar2','32 Design and Implementation of Real-time Amphibious Unmanned Aerial Vehicle System for Sowing Seed Balls in the Agriculture Field 1672-ARUN KUMAR.pdf','',1,'','','','',''),(1931,'75','Solving Bi-objective Interval Assignment Problem','V.E. Sobana1 and D. Anuradha2','33 Solving Bi-objective Interval Assignment Problem D.pdf','',1,'','','','',''),(1932,'75','Analysis of Location based Sales Data using Machine Learning Algorithms','G.S. Ramesh1, T.V. Rajini Kanth2 and D. Vasumathi3','34 Analysis of Location based Sales Data using Machine Learning Algorithms GS.pdf','',1,'','','','',''),(1933,'75','Contingency Constrained Optimal PMU Placement in Power System using Binary\r\nSine Cosine Algorithm','C.D. Patel, T. K. Tailor, S. Shrivastava and S.S. Shah','35 Contingency Constrained Optimal PMU Placement in Power System using Binary Sine Cosine Algorithm 1801 Chintan Patel.pdf','',1,'','','','',''),(1934,'75','The Effect of Service Quality on Commutersâ€™ Satisfaction towards the Adoption of\r\nMetro Services: A Case Study of Delhi Metro Rail Corporation','Yogendra Pal Bharadwaj1 and Mukesh Singh2','36 The Effect of Service Quality on Commuters Satisfaction Towards the Adoption of Metro Services A Case Study of Delhi Metro Rail Corporation 1848-YOGENDRA PAL.pdf','',1,'','','','',''),(1935,'75','Mapping of Corona Virus Transmission in India with a Mathematical Approach ','R. Varalakshmi ','Mapping of Corona Virus Transmission in India with a Mathematical Approach 2034CSEDrR.pdf','',1,'','','','',''),(1936,'75','Evolving a Hybrid Appointment System for Patient Scheduling in Primary\r\nHealthcare Centres in Dubai: Perceptions of Patients and Healthcare Provider ','A. Aburayya , A. Al Marzouqi , I. Al Ayadeh , A. Albqaeen4 and S. Mubarak','Evolving a Hybrid Appointment System for Patient Scheduling in Primary Healthcare Centres in Dubai Perceptions of Patients and Healthcare Provider 1768MBAA.pdf','',1,'','','','',''),(1937,'75','Estimation of Variations in EEG-based Emotions - A Framework','Ritesh Joshi and Maya Ingle','Estimation of Variations in EEGbased Emotions A Framework 1552RITESH1.pdf','',1,'','','','',''),(1938,'75','QT68: A New Single Cross Maize Hybrid for the North Central Provinces of\r\nVietnam ','Le Quy Tuong , Le Quy Tung , Nguyen Tuan Khoi , Nesterova Olga Vladimirovna and Bui Bao Thinh','QT68 A New Single Cross Maize Hybrid for the North Central Provinces of Vietnam BUI BAO THINH.pdf','',1,'','','','',''),(1939,'75','Fani, an Outlier among Pre-monsoon Intra-Seasonal Cyclones over Bay of Bengal ','Siba Prasad Mishra , Kumar Chandra Sethi , Ananta Charan Ojha and Kamal Kumar Barik','Fani an Outlier among Premonsoon IntraSeasonal Cyclones over Bay of Bengal Ananta Charan Ojha.pdf','',1,'','','','',''),(1940,'75','Adaptive Cost-Sensitive Sparse Representation Truncated Gradient Online\r\nClassification (ACSSRTGC) ','P. Priakanth , M. Thangamani and S. Gopikrishnan','Adaptive CostSensitive Sparse Representation Truncated Gradient Online Classification ACSSRTGCP.pdf','',1,'','','','',''),(1941,'75','Cultivation Technology and Efficiency of Field Bean Grain Usage in the Diet of Dairy Cows','Alyona Viktorovna Krasovskaya , Tatyana Maksimovna Veremey , Alexander Nikolaevich Yatsunov , Elena Vasilievna Yudina and Alexander Fedorovich Stepanov','Cultivation Technology and Efficiency of Field Bean Grain Usage in the Diet of Dairy Cows Alyona Viktorovna Krasovskaya.pdf','',1,'','','','',''),(1942,'75','Equalization of Scores through Statistical Modeling towards Removing\r\nExaminersâ€™ Bias for Arithmetic and Reasoning Paper','S. Sahu , K. Harirajan , G. Mahapatra and S. Sahu','Equalization of Scores through Statistical Modeling towards Removing Examiners Bias for Arithmetic and Reasoning Paper S SAHU.pdf','',1,'','','','',''),(1943,'75','A Case Study for Selection of suitable Vendor Management using the Fuzzy Logic Technique ','Raju Ranjan and Malay Niraj','A Case Study for Selection of suitable Vendor Management using the Fuzzy Logic Technique RAJU RANJAN.pdf','',1,'','','','',''),(1944,'75','Evaluation of the Performance of Concrete Containing Coal Bottom Ash through the Nondestructive Tests and Microstructure Analysis','Si-Huy Ngo and Trong-Phuoc Huynh','Evaluation of the Performance of Concrete Containing Coal Bottom Ash through the Nondestructive Tests and Microstructure Analysis SiHuy Ngo.pdf','',1,'','','','',''),(1945,'75','Study of Pectin Substances from Apple and Grape Husks and Assessment of their Effect on the Activity of Microbiological Processes in Wheat Dough ','Sergey Mikhailovich Gorlov , Natalya Victorovna Sokol , Olga Petrovna Hrapko , Nadejda Sergeevna Sanjarovskaya and Ekaterina Nikolaevna Karpenko','Study of Pectin Substances from Apple and Grape Husks and Assessment of their Effect on the Activity of Microbiological Processes in Wheat Dough 1689 AGRI Sergey Mikhailovich Gorlov1.pdf','',1,'','','','',''),(1946,'75','Household Investment Preferences for Gold and Gold Exchange Traded Funds (ETFs) in Himachal Pradesh, India ','Narinder Verma , Y.S. Negi and Rakesh Kumar Shukla','Household Investment Preferences for Gold and Gold Exchange Traded Funds ETFs in Himachal Pradesh India 2079 Narinder Verma2.pdf','',1,'','','','',''),(1947,'75','Lotkaâ€™s Law and the Pattern of Scientific Productivity in the Marine Pollution\r\nResearch ','N. Rathika, S. Thanuskodi and K. Sudhakar','Lotkas Law and the Pattern of Scientific Productivity in the Marine Pollution Research S3.pdf','',1,'','','','',''),(1948,'75','Automatic Extraction of Facets for user Query in Text Mining [AEFTM] ','Ramya R.S. , Naveen Raju , Pushpa C.N. , Venugopal K.R. , S.S. Iyengar and L.M. Patnaik','Automatic Extraction of Facets for user Query in Text Mining AEFTM 1873 RAMYA4.pdf','',1,'','','','',''),(1949,'75','Performance Evaluation of RPL, CoAP and 6LoWPAN Protocol for different time Interval and PDR in IoT Environment ','Kaptan Singh and Deepak Singh Tomar','Performance Evaluation of RPL CoAP and 6LoWPAN Protocol for different time Interval and PDR in IoT Environment 1903 KAPTAN5.pdf','',1,'','','','',''),(1950,'75','Kinetic Studies on Adsorption of Hexavalent Chromium using Blue Green Algae ','Ramsenthil Ramadoss and Dhanasekaran Subramaniam','Kinetic Studies on Adsorption of Hexavalent Chromium using Blue Green Algae 1923 RAMSENTHIL RAMADOSS6.pdf','',1,'','','','',''),(1951,'75','A Fast Computation of Betweenness Centrality in Large-Scale Unweighted\r\nGraphs ','P.H. Du , N.S. Duong , N.C. Nguyen and N.H. Nguyen','A Fast Computation of Betweenness Centrality in Large Scale Unweighted Graphs NH NGUYEN 17167.pdf','',1,'','','','',''),(1952,'75','A Review of Short Term Load Forecasting using Deep Learning ','Siva Sankari Subbiah and Jayakumar Chinnappan','A Review of Short Term Load Forecasting using Deep Learning SIVA SANKARI SUBBIAH 1952nu1.pdf','',1,'','','','',''),(1953,'75','An Innovative Approach for Ranking Hexagonal Fuzzy Numbers to Solve\r\nLinear Programming Problems ','Mayuri C. Deshmukh , Kirtiwant P. Ghadle and Omprakash S. Jadhav','An Innovative Approach for Ranking Hexagonal Fuzzy Numbers to Solve Linear Programming ProblemsMayuri Cnu1.pdf','',1,'','','','',''),(1954,'75','Effect of Ethanol based Mixtures on the Performance of CLPHPâ€“Experimental Approach ','N. SanthiSree , N.V.V.S. Sudheer and P. Bhramara','Effect of Ethanol based Mixtures on the Performance of CLPHPExperimental Approach Nnu1.pdf','',1,'','','','',''),(1956,'72','Availability Assessment of Crop residue Potential for Electric Power Generation in Punjab, India: A Review','Harpreet Singh Dhaliwal , Yadwinder Singh Brar and Gursewak Singh Brar','Availability Assessment of Crop residue Potential for Electric Power Generation in Punjab India A Review Harpreet Singh Dhaliwal 22051.pdf','',1,'','','','',''),(1958,'73','Sighting Records of Brown Crake (Amauromls akool) and its Territorial Call Characteristics from Central Aravalli Foothills, Rajasthan','Vivek Sharma , Divaker Yadav , Mriganka Upadhyay','Sighting Records of Brown Crake Amauromls akool and its Territorial Call Characteristics from Central Aravalli Foothills.pdf','',1,'','','','',''),(1959,'73','Effect and selectivity of insecticides in forage pea and feed quality','Ivelina Ðœitkova Nikolova*, Natalia Ðnastasova Georgieva ','Effect and selectivity of insecticides in forage pea and feed quality.pdf','',1,'','','','',''),(1960,'75','Application of Municipal Solid Waste as a Soil Nutrients Booster Humic Acid and its Analysis through FTIR and GC-MS\r\n','Nisha Gupta and Manisha Agrawal','Application of Municipal Solid Waste as a Soil Nutrients Booster Humic Acid and its Analysis through FTIR and GC MS NISHA GUPTA 1547.pdf','',1,'','','','',''),(1961,'75','Effects of Al2O3 Nano Particle Addition in Karanja Biodiesel on Performance, Emission and Combustion Characteristics of Diesel Engine','G.V.L. Prasad and A.V.S.S.K.S. Gupta','Effects of Al2O3 Nano Particle Addition in Karanja Biodiesel on Performance Emission and Combustion Characteristics of Diesel Engine GVL PRASAD 1776.pdf','',1,'','','','',''),(1962,'75','Content Based Image Retrieval with integrated Techniques','A.P. Nilawar and C.G. Dethe','Content Based Image Retrieval with integrated Techniques AP.pdf','',1,'','','','',''),(1963,'75','Pradhan Mantri Jan Dhan Yojna (PMJDY) â€“ An Initiative of Government towards Financial Inclusion ','Satendra Kumar Yadav , Utkal Khandelwal , Yogesh Kumar and R.K. Dwivedi','Pradhan Mantri Jan Dhan Yojna PMJDY An Initiative of Government towards Financial Inclusion SATENDRA KUMAR YADAV 2061.pdf','',1,'','','','',''),(1964,'75','Optimization in the Design of Prestressed Concrete Girders using Excel and\r\nMATLAB ','Tensing D. , Vincent Sam Jebadurai S. , Joe Paulson , Rahul A.V. and Kevin Jefrey','Optimization in the Design of Prestressed Concrete Girders using Excel and MATLAB Vincent Sam Jebadurai 1624.pdf','',1,'','','','',''),(1965,'75','Formation of Land Tax in the Subjects of the Russian Federation ','M.M. Geraskin , R.A. Zaharkina , R.R. Khayrov , V.I. Kargin and S.I. Danilin','Formation of Land Tax in the Subjects of the Russian Federation M M 1539.pdf','',1,'','','','',''),(1966,'75','Women Entrepreneurship in Changing Environment ','Ashutosh Singh','Women Entrepreneurship in Changing Environment Ahutosh Singh 2071.pdf','',1,'','','','',''),(1967,'75','Impact of uncontrolled Marketing on Tourists and Tourist destinations: A\r\nTheoretical Analysis ','Richa Mishra and M. Sajnani','Impact of uncontrolled Marketing on Tourists and Tourist destinations A Theoretical Analysis 1878 MBA Richa Mishra.pdf','',1,'','','','',''),(1968,'75','A Qualitative Research through an Emerging Technique to Improve Vocabulary for ESL Learners','Aravind B.R. and Rajasekaran V.','A Qualitative Research through an Emerging Technique to Improve Vocabulary for ESL Learners Aravind BR.pdf','',1,'','','','',''),(1969,'75','Integration of Technology Acceptance Model with Perceived Risk, Perceived\r\nTrust and Perceived Cost: Customerâ€™s Adoption of M-Banking ','Prashant Tiwari and Shiv Kant Tiwari','Integration of Technology Acceptance Model with Perceived Risk Perceived Trust and Perceived Cost Customers Adoption of M-Banking 1921MBA Prashant Tiwari.pdf','',1,'','','','',''),(1970,'75','Discovery of Significant miRNA-biomarkers for Breast Cancer using Decision Tree Classifier ','Apurva A. Mehta and Himanshu S. Mazumdar','Discovery of Significant miRNA biomarkers for Breast Cancer using Decision Tree Classifier Apurva A.pdf','',1,'','','','',''),(1971,'75','Determinants of Job Satisfaction Affected by Work Environment: An\r\nAcademician Perspective from Non-Public Institutions ','Shiv Kant Tiwari and Prashant Tiwari','Determinants of Job Satisfaction affected by Work Environment An Academician Perspective from Non Public Institutions Shiv Kant Tiwari 1911n.pdf','',1,'','','','',''),(1972,'75','An Innovative Methodology in Design of a Permanent Magnet Brushless DC\r\nMotor for a Particular Application ','Upendra Kumar Potnuru and P. Mallikarjuna Rao','An Innovative Methodology in Design of a Permanent Magnet Brushless DC Motor for a Particular Application UPENDRA KUMAR 1855.pdf','',1,'','','','',''),(1973,'75','Change of the content of Soil Water stable Aggregates in a Fallow Field\r\nDepending on the Cultivation Level of Albic Glossic Retisols of Long-Term Field Experience ','O.A. Savoskina, A.V. Shitikova and S.I. Chebanenko','Change of the content of Soil Water stable Aggregates in a Fallow Field Depending on the Cultivation Level of Albic Glossic Retisols of LongTerm Field Experience 1509OA.pdf','',1,'','','','',''),(1974,'75','Algae: A Potential Source to Prevent and Cure the Novel Coronavirus â€“ A review ','Elaya Perumal U. and Sundararaj R.','Algae A Potential Source to Prevent and Cure the Novel Coronavirus A review R SUNDERARAJ 2154n1.pdf','',1,'','','','',''),(1975,'75','Vertical Stresses in Soil below a Three Dimensional Structure due to Reinforced Soil Structure Interaction','Nayana N. Patil , H.M. Rajashekharswamy and R. Shivashankar','Vertical Stresses in Soil below a Three Dimensional Structure due to Reinforced Soil Structure Interaction Nayana N1.pdf','',1,'','','','',''),(1976,'75','Impact of Ruminal Fluid Composition on the Digestibility of Nutrients and Milk Yield ','A.P. Velmatov , V.V. Mungin , T.N. Tishkina , N.N. Neyaskin , L.N. Velmatova and A.M. Guryanov','Impact of Ruminal Fluid Composition on the Digestibility of Nutrients and Milk Yield Anatoly Velmatov 1562n2.pdf','',1,'','','','',''),(1977,'75','Financial Literacy and Entrepreneurial Motivation in Supporting Economic Activity and Business Sustainability of Informal Sector Entrepreneurs ','Anis Dwiastanti , Wahjoedi , F. Danardana Murwani and Sugeng Hadi Utomo','Financial Literacy and Entrepreneurial Motivation in Supporting Economic Activity and Business Sustainability of Informal Sector Entrepreneurs Anis Dwiastanti 1654n3.pdf','',1,'','','','',''),(1978,'75','Effects of Microalgae Biodiesel on Diesel Engine Performance','Ajeet Kumar Soni , Sunil Kumar and Mukesh Pandey','Effects of Microalgae Biodiesel on Diesel Engine Performance AJEET SONI 2059n4.pdf','',1,'','','','',''),(1979,'75','Markov based Genetic Algorithm (M-GA): To Mine Frequent Sub Components from Molecular Structures ','P. Kanmani, O.S. Gnana Prakasi and N. Jayapandian','Markov based Genetic Algorithm MGA To Mine Frequent Sub Components from Molecular Structures P KANMANI 1790n5.pdf','',1,'','','','',''),(1980,'75','Productive Qualities of Holsteins with Different Levels of Somatic Cells in Milk ','Ekaterina Nikolaevna Martynova , Veronika Anatolyevna Bychkova , Olga Sergeevna Utkina , Svetlana Petrovna Bass and Elena Valerevna Achkasova','Productive Qualities of Holsteins with different Levels of Somatic Cells in Milk Ekaterina Nikolaevna Martynova 1726n6.pdf','',1,'','','','',''),(1981,'75','Peculiarities of Leached Black Soil Absorption Capacity in the Pre-Kuban\r\nLowland in the conditions of the Field Agrocoenosis','Valery Nikiforovich Slyusarev, Roman Viktorovich Kravchenko, Oleg Anatolievich Podkolzin, Vladimir Vladislavovich Kotlyarov and Nikolay Nikolaevich NeshÑhadim ','Peculiarities of Leached Black Soil Absorption Capacity in the PreKuban Lowland in the conditions of the Field Agrocoenosis Valery Nikiforovich Slyusarev 1730n7.pdf','',1,'','','','',''),(1982,'75','Implementation of Random Forest and Proposal of Borda Count in Credit Card Fraud Detection','Nileena Thomas , Jayalakshmi J. , Sreelakshmi E.S. and Leena Vishnu Namboothiri','Implementation of Random Forest and Proposal of Borda Count in Credit Card Fraud Detection NILEENA THOMAS 1937n8.pdf','',1,'','','','',''),(1983,'75','A Fuzzy Logic based Approach for Replacing Mouse by Facial Expressions for People with Disability in Movement ','Pradeep V. and Jogesh Motwani','A Fuzzy Logic based Approach for Replacing Mouse by Facial Expressions for People with Disability in Movement CSEPradeep V 1682n9.pdf','',1,'','','','',''),(1984,'75','Studies on Air Filtration Efficiency of Nanofibers','Shailesh Anand B. Goswami and Prakash A. Khatwani','Studies on Air Filtration Efficiency of Nanofibers SHAILESH GOSWAMI 926n10.pdf','',1,'','','','',''),(1985,'75','Efficiency Evaluation of Cinnamon Essential Oil Loaded Nanoliposomal Coating for the Post-Harvest Management of Apple (Malus domestica) ','Anushka Mitra , S. Periyar Selvam , Sabah Shehabudheen , D. Priscilla Mercy Anitha and M. Mahesh Kumar','Efficiency Evaluation of Cinnamon Essential Oil Loaded Nanoliposomal Coating for the Post Harvest Management of Apple Malus domestica ANUSHKA MITRA 1859n1.pdf','',1,'','','','',''),(1986,'75','Innovation Technology in Health Care Management in the Context of Indian\r\nEnvironmental Planning and Sustainable Development ','M.Z.M. Nomani & Zafar Hussain','Innovation Technology in Health Care Management in the Context of Indian Environmental Planning and Sustainable Development ZAFAR NOMANI 1529JN.pdf','',1,'','','','',''),(1987,'75','Monitoring the State of Ameliorated Agricultural Lands in the Arid Zone of Russia','Vladimir Alexandrovich Tarbaev , Petr Vladimirovich Tarasenko , Vyacheslav Mikhailovich Yanyuk , Alexander Anatolyevich Tkachev , Renat Barievich Tuktarov and Irina Igorevna Demakina','Monitoring the State of Ameliorated Agricultural Lands in the Arid Zone of Russia Vladimir Alexandrovich Tarbaev 1708n3.pdf','',1,'','','','',''),(1988,'75','Influence of Pressure Level based Parameters on Lightning and Rainfall over Nepal ','N. Umakanth, G. Ch. Satyanarayana , B. Simon , M.C. Rao and N. Ranga Babu','Influence of Pressure Level based Parameters on Lightning and Rainfall over Nepal Nn4.pdf','',1,'','','','',''),(1989,'75','Optimization of Long Biphase Sequences using Progressive Search Algorithm for Radar Communications ','E.V. Suryanarayana and P. Siddhaiah','Optimization of Long Biphase Sequences using Progressive Search Algorithm for Radar Communications EV SURYANARAYANA 1977n5.pdf','',1,'','','','',''),(1990,'75','A Novel Scheme for Security of Unstructured and Semi-Structured Big Data\r\nOutsourced to Cloud ','P. Amarendra Reddy , P. Bhaskara Reddy and O. Ramesh','A Novel Scheme for Security of Unstructured and Semi Structured Big Data Outsourced to Cloud Pn6.pdf','',1,'','','','',''),(1991,'75','Artificial Neural Network Photovoltaic Generator Maximum Power Point Tracking Method using Synergetic Control Algorithm ','E. Akoro , G.J. TEVI , M.E. Faye , M. L. Doumbia and A.S. Maiga','Artificial Neural Network Photovoltaic Generator Maximum Power Point Tracking Method using Synergetic Control Algorithm Edjadessamam AKORO 1893n7.pdf','',1,'','','','',''),(1992,'75','Factors Determining the Service Quality of E-Ticketing Process in Indian Context â€“ An Empirical Study ','Nithya N. and Kiruthika R.','Factors Determining the Service Quality of ETicketing Process in Indian Context An Empirical Study Nithya Natarajan 1900n8.pdf','',1,'','','','',''),(1993,'75','Outfit Selection Recommendation System using Classification Techniques','N. Srinivasa Gupta , D. Sai Thanishvi and B. Valarmathi','Outfit Selection Recommendation System using Classification Techniques Bj1.pdf','',1,'','','','',''),(1994,'75','Dusty Time Fractional MHD Flow of a Newtonian Fluid through a Cylindrical Tube','H. Imo Mani Singha and Sanjib Sengupta','Dusty Time Fractional MHD Flow of a Newtonian Fluid through a Cylindrical Tube Sanjib Sengupta 1782j2.pdf','',1,'','','','',''),(1995,'75','Model of Marketing Integration Strategy of Sea Fish through Application of\r\nHygienic','Syamsul Hadi , M. Iwan Wahyudi , Henik Prayuginingsih and Arief Alihudien','Model of Marketing Integration Strategy of Sea Fish through Application of Hygienic Syamsul Hadi 1679j3.pdf','',1,'','','','',''),(1996,'75','A Novel Hybrid Mitigation Technique against DoS Attacks in Software defined\r\nNetwork with Entropy, SVM and Reinforcement Learning ','Trupti Lotlikar and Deven Shah','A Novel Hybrid Mitigation Technique against DoS Attacks in Software defined Network with Entropy SVM and Reinforcement Learning TRUPTI 1973j4.pdf','',1,'','','','',''),(1997,'75','Impacts of FACTs on Distributed Generation System ','Samir H. Patel , Ravindrakumar Yadav and Dattesh Y. Joshi','Impacts of FACTs on Distributed Generation System SamirHj5.pdf','',1,'','','','',''),(1998,'75','Solving Fuzzy Fractional Klein-Gordon-Fock Equation by the VIM, ADM and NIM in Fluid Mechanics ','Firdous Khan and K. P. Ghadle','Solving Fuzzy Fractional Klein Gordon Fock Equation by the VIM ADM and NIM in Fluid Mechanics FIRDOSH 1663n1.pdf','',1,'','','','',''),(1999,'75','Understanding the Concept of HR Analytics','Pooja Jain and Pranjal Jain','Understanding the Concept of HR Analytics POOJA JAIN 2117j6.pdf','',1,'','','','',''),(2000,'75','Early Evaluation of Type-2 Diabetics Mellitus Disease','C. Balakrishnan , S. Gavaskar , J. Joseph Sahayarayan , J. Jegathesh Amalraj and S. Santhosh Kumar','Early Evaluation of Type Diabetics Mellitus Disease Dr Sj7.pdf','',1,'','','','',''),(2001,'75','Magnesium Alloy Anodes for Corrosion Prevention of Reinforcements in\r\nConcrete ','Yogesh Iyer Murthy , Sumit Gandhi and Abhishek Kumar','Magnesium Alloy Anodes for Corrosion Prevention of Reinforcements in Concrete Yogesh Iyer Murthy 1750j8.pdf','',1,'','','','',''),(2002,'75','Construction of Perfect Periodic Binary Sequences for Radar Applications ','Tara Dutt Bhatt','Construction of Perfect Periodic Binary Sequences for Radar Applications Tara Dutt Bhatt 1846j9.pdf','',1,'','','','',''),(2003,'75','Arithmetic and Logical Unit Design for Area Optimization for Microcontroller ','Amrut Anilrao Purohit, Mohammed Riyaz Ahmed and R. Venkata Siva Reddy','Arithmetic and Logical Unit Design for Area Optimization for Microcontroller Amrut Anilrao Purohit 1558j10.pdf','',1,'','','','',''),(2004,'75','Effect of Digitalization on the Competitiveness of Money Transfer Operators in\r\nthe National Payment System ','Vladimir Vyatcheslavovich Kuznetsov','Effect of Digitalization on the Competitiveness of Money Transfer Operators in the National Payment System Vladimir Vyatcheslavovich Kuznetsov 1586j11.pdf','',1,'','','','',''),(2005,'75','Application of the New Integral â€œJ-transformâ€ in Cryptography ','V. Srinivas and C.H. Jayanthi','Application of the New Integral Jtransform in Cryptography Vj12.pdf','',1,'','','','',''),(2006,'75','HR Analytics and Organizational Effectiveness ','S. Zeidan and N. Itani','HR Analytics and Organizational Effectiveness S ZEIDAN 1905j13.pdf','',1,'','','','',''),(2007,'75','Overview of Reference Current Extraction Techniques in Single Phase Shunt\r\nActive Power Filter ','K. Rameshkumar and V. Indragandhi','Overview of Reference Current Extraction Techniques in Single Phase Shunt Active Power Filter Kj14.pdf','',1,'','','','',''),(2008,'75','A Deep Learning Model for Malaria Disease Detection and Analysis using Deep Convolutional Neural Networks','Mahendra Kumar Gourisaria, Sujay Das, Ritesh Sharma , Siddharth Swarup Rautaray and Manjusha Pandey','A Deep Learning Model for Malaria Disease Detection and Analysis using Deep Convolutional Neural Networks Mahendra Kumar Gourisaria 2003j15.pdf','',1,'','','','',''),(2009,'75','Some Coupled Coincidence Point Result Using Altering Distances with Ordered Metric Spaces\r\n','Richa Sharma , Virendra Singh Chouhan and Sanjay Mishra','Some Coupled Coincidence Point Result Using Altering Distancej16.pdf','',1,'','','','',''),(2010,'75','Morphometric Analysis of Hard Rock Terrain of Banne Watershed, District\r\nChhatarpur, Madhya Pradesh, India, using Remote Sensing and GIS ','Saumya Vyas and Gyanendra Pratap Singh','Morphometric Analysis of Hard Rock Terrain of Banne Watershed District Chhatarpur Madhya Pradesh India using Remote Sensing and GIS Saumya Vyas 1901j17.pdf','',1,'','','','',''),(2011,'75','A Study on Effect of Ingredient Technology Branding on Consumer Buying\r\nBehaviour for High Involvement and Low Involvement Products ','Sudha Vemaraju ','A Study on Effect of Ingredient Technology Branding on Consumer Buying Behaviour for High Involvement and Low Involvement Products SUDHA VERMARAJU 1839j18.pdf','',1,'','','','',''),(2012,'75','Radio over Fiber Communication System: Lateral Shift in Cellular Communication ','Shagun Singh, Suresh Kumar and Payal','Radio over Fiber Communication System Lateral Shift in Cellular Communication SHAGUN SINGH 2146j19.pdf','',1,'','','','',''),(2013,'75','Cyber Property Rights, Its Present Status and Challenges: Bangladesh Context ','Kudrat-E-Khuda (Babu) ','Cyber Property Rights Its Present Status and Challenges Bangladesh Context Drj20.pdf','',1,'','','','',''),(2014,'75','Determinants of e-Procurement Implementation in Construction in Nigeria ','Egidario B. Aduwo , Eziyi O. Ibem , Emmanuel A. Ayo-Vaughan , Adedeji O. Afolabi , Uwakonye O. Uwakonye and Adedamola A. Oluwunmi','Determinants of e Procurement Implementation in Construction in Nigeria Egidario B 2044j21.pdf','',1,'','','','',''),(2015,'75','Students Opinions of quality Management in Engineering Colleges: An Empirical Investigation ','K.V.S. Prasad','Students Opinions of quality Management in Engineering Colleges An Empirical Investigation Dr KVSj21.pdf','',1,'','','','',''),(2016,'75','Spectral Studies of Ground-based Observations of Wind Components,\r\nTemperature & Analysis of Flux Parameters during Pre-Monsoon Thunderstorms Period at Ranchi','Poulomi Chakravarty and Manoj Kumar','Spectral Studies of Ground based Observations of Wind Components Temperature & Analysis of Flux Parameters during Pre Monsoon Thunderstorms Period at Ranchi POULOMI 2019j23.pdf','',1,'','','','',''),(2017,'75','Enhancement of Features of 8 Bit RISC Processor by Implementing 8 Bit\r\nShift/Add Multiplier','Tanaji M. Dudhane and T. Ravi','Enhancement of Features of 8 Bit RISC Processor by Implementing 8 Bit ShiftAdd Multiplier Tanaji Mj24.pdf','',1,'','','','',''),(2018,'75','Determination of Lateral Force on Steel Plate Shear Wall by using European Code ','Sudarshan R. Vhatkar and Pradip D. Jadhao','Determination of Lateral Force on Steel Plate Shear Wall by using European Code Sudarshan Rj25.pdf','',1,'','','','',''),(2019,'75','Scope of Improvement in Earthing System for 400 kV AC Substation through\r\nDesign, Analysis and Load Flow aspects','Rahat Ullah Khan and Rubeena Saleem','Scope of Improvement in Earthing System for 400 kV AC Substation through Design Analysis and Load Flow aspects RAHAT 1720j26.pdf','',1,'','','','',''),(2020,'75','A Novel Transversal, Longitudinal Slots with Monopole Leaky Wave Antenna to Enhanced Scanning','Dhruva Chaudhary and S.C. Gupta','A Novel Transversal Longitudinal Slots with Monopole Leaky Wave Antenna to Enhanced Scanning DHRUVA 1357j27.pdf','',1,'','','','',''),(2021,'75','The Design of the Flyover Toll Plaza Model to Minimize the Construction Area of Toll Plaza ','S. Vijay Prasad , Ranadheer Donthi and Mahesh Kumar Challa','The Design of the Flyover Toll Plaza Model to Minimize the Construction Area of Toll Plaza DR VIJAY PRASAD 1824j28.pdf','',1,'','','','',''),(2022,'75','Synthetic Data for Hindi Character Recognition ','Madhuri Yadav and Ravindra Kumar Purwar','Synthetic Data for Hindi Character Recognition MADHURI YADAV 746j29.pdf','',1,'','','','',''),(2023,'75','Top Cited Scientific Articles Published on Artificial Intelligence in the Field of\r\nDentistry- A Bibliometric Analysis ','P. Suganya , Lubna Fathima , D. Prabu , Rajmohan and M.R. Prashanthy','Top Cited Scientific Articles Published on Artificial Intelligence in the Field of Dentistry A Bibliometric Analysis Pj20.pdf','',1,'','','','',''),(2024,'75','An Exploratory Study of Important Dimensions in Strengthening Buyer-Supplier Relationship','Rajesh N. Pahurkar , B.V. Sangvikar , Kaustubh Khadke and Ashutosh Kolte','An Exploratory Study of Important Dimensions in Strengthening Buyer Supplier Relationship Rajesh Njj.pdf','',1,'','','','',''),(2025,'75','A Pattern based Approach for Sentiment Analysis using Ternary Classification on Twitter Data ','E. Kannan and Lakshmi Anusha Kothamasu','A Pattern based Approach for Sentiment Analysis using Ternary Classification on Twitter Data Dr Ej22.pdf','',1,'','','','',''),(2026,'75','LemmaChase: A Lemmatizer ','Rupam Gupta and Anjali G. Jivani','LemmaChase A Lemmatizer RUPAM GUPTA 1962j23.pdf','',1,'','','','',''),(2027,'75','Design and Implementation of Black Box for Security and Monitoring of Automobile ','Prerna Singh , Rishabh Tiwari , Rana Sourav and Renuka Bhandari','Design and Implementation of Black Box for Security and Monitoring of Automobile PREMA SINGH 1766j24.pdf','',1,'','','','',''),(2028,'75','A Review on Impacts of Agricultural Runoff on Freshwater Resources','Sravani Pericherla , Manoj Kumar Karnena and Saritha Vara ','A Review on Impacts of Agricultural Runoff on Freshwater Resources Akash Doomra SARITHA VARA 2332j1.pdf','',1,'','','','',''),(2029,'75','Performance of Conjugate Gradient Signal Detection in Large Scale\r\nAdGeSM-MIMO ','Seema M. Hanchate and Shikha Nema','Performance of Conjugate Gradient Signal Detection in Large Scale AdGeSM MIMO Seema M Hanchate 2018j26.pdf','',1,'','','','',''),(2030,'76','Physico-Chemical Study of Soil in Dholpur City','K.K. Upadhyay , Kanchan Sharma and M.K. Singh and Anish Chandra Pandey','Physico Chemical Study of Soil in Dholpur City 1233KK UPADHAYAj1.pdf','',1,'','','','',''),(2031,'73','Effects of graphene oxide nanoparticles on biochemical attributes in soybean (Glycine max) roots','Maryam Heidari , Nader Farsad-Akhtar, Mahmoud Toorchi , Elham Mohajel Kazemi , Nasser Mahna','Effects of graphene oxide nanoparticles on biochemical attributes in soybean Glycine max roots.pdf','',1,'','','','',''),(2032,'73','Resolving Taxonomic Confusion through Leaf Architecture: The Case of Genus Cucumis L.','Lailani Averion-Masungsong, Inocencio E. Buot, Jr.','Resolving Taxonomic Confusion through Leaf Architecture.pdf','',1,'','','','',''),(2033,'75','Brain Tumor Detection and Extraction using Type-2 Fuzzy with Morphology','Dillip Ranjan Nayak , Neelamadhab Padhy and Basanta Kumar Swain','Brain Tumor Detection and Extraction using Type Fuzzy with Morphology Dillip Ranjan Nayakj1.pdf','',1,'','','','',''),(2034,'75','Ethanol Production from Modified Wheat Straw using Saccharomyces cerevisiae','Muataz H. Ismael , Salah N. Farhan , Yaser I. Jasem and Walaa Abid Mahmood','Ethanol Production from Modified Wheat Straw using Saccharomyces cerevisiae Muataz Hj2.pdf','',1,'','','','',''),(2035,'75','Enhancement of the Overall Performance of Vapor Compression Refrigeration System (VCRS) using Environmentally Friendly Refrigerant and Jumping Capacitors â€“ Experimental Study ','Zana Kanaan Shakir , Ahmed Mohammed Adham , Mohammed Abdulqader Sulaiman and Nawzad Khalid Mohammed','Enhancement of the Overall Performance of Vapor Compression Refrigeration Systemj3.pdf','',1,'','','','',''),(2036,'75','Greedy Graph Coloring Algorithm Based on Depth First Search ','Sumit Gupta and Dhirendra Pratap Singh','Greedy Graph Coloring Algorithm based on Depth First Search Sumit Gupta 2235j4.pdf','',1,'','','','',''),(2037,'77','Importance of Digitech Adoption for Providing Efficient Healthcare Services\r\nduring COVID-19','Vaidik Bhatt , Samyadip Chakraborty and Tulika Chakravorty','Importance of Digitech Adoption for Providing Efficient Healthcare Services during COVID 19 Vaidik Bhatt 2279n1.pdf','',1,'','','','',''),(2038,'77','Constitutionality and Legality of Corona Virus (COVID-19) in India: Limits of\r\nSanction and Extent of Liberation','M.Z.M. Nomani and Madiha Tahreem','Constitutionality and Legality of Corona Virus COVID 19 induced Lockdowns in India Limits of Sanction and Extent of Liberation ZAFAR NMANI 2244n2.pdf','',1,'','','','',''),(2040,'75','Analysis of Performance of Switched Capacitor Circuits','E. Sreenivasa Rao , S. Aruna Deepthi and M. Satyam','Analysis of Performance of Switched Capacitor Circuits Sn1.pdf','',1,'','','','',''),(2041,'75','Stochastic Model Assessing to Identifying the Shortage of Manpower in an Organization ','N. Vijayasankar , A. Goparaju and R. Vinoth','Stochastic Model Assessing to Identifying the Shortage of Manpower in an Organization A Goparaju 1824n2.pdf','',1,'','','','',''),(2042,'75','Load Flow Analysis and Optimal allocation of DG for Indian Utility 62 Bus Power System','P. Harish Kumar and Mageshvaran R.','Load Flow Analysis and Optimal allocation of DG for Indian Utility 62 Bus Power System Harish Kumar Pujari 2013n3.pdf','',1,'','','','',''),(2043,'75','Assessment of Population Genetic Diversity of cocoa (Theobroma cacao L.) using RAPD Markers: The Case of cacao Agroforestryâ€™s System in East Kolaka, Indonesia','Yolanda Fitria Syahri , Siti Halimah Larekeng and Arida Susilowati','Assessment of Population Genetic Diversity of cocoa Theobroma cacao Ln4.pdf','',1,'','','','',''),(2044,'75','Development, Challenges and Future Outlook of 3D Concrete Printing Technology ','Amitkumar D. Raval and C.G. Patel','Development Challenges and Future Outlook of 3D Concrete Printing Technology Amitkumar Dn5.pdf','',1,'','','','',''),(2045,'75','Seismic Performance of Box Girder Bridge with Non-Linear Static Pushover Analysis ','Nilanjan Tarafder and L.V. Prasad M','Seismic Performance of Box Girder Bridge with on Linear Static Pushover Analysis Nilanjan Tarafder 2098j6.pdf','',1,'','','','',''),(2046,'75','After Effects of Epileptic Seizure on the Functioning of Autonomic Nervous System','Dipen Deka','After Effects of Epileptic Seizure on the Functioning of Autonomic Nervous System Dipen Deka 2017n7.pdf','',1,'','','','',''),(2047,'77','Predicting the Rate of Growth of the Novel Corona Virus 2020 ','Geetika Vashisht and Ravi Prakash','Predicting the Rate of Growth of the Novel Corona Virus 2020 Geetika Vashisht 2326j1.pdf','',1,'','','','',''),(2048,'77','Customer-Centric Prioritization using Multi-Criteria Decision Making Method','S. Sidhartha and M. Thenarasu','Customer Centric Prioritization using Multi Criteria Decision Making Method Mj2.pdf','',1,'','','','',''),(2049,'77','Determinant Matrix for Gold Monetization Scheme (GMS) and Household Preferences for Gold-Backed Products in Himachal Pradesh, India','Narinder Verma , Y. S. Negi and Rakesh Kumar Shukla','Determinant Matrix for Gold Monetization Scheme GMS and Household Preferences for Gold Backed Products in Himachal Pradesh India Narinder Verma 2278j1.pdf','',1,'','','','',''),(2050,'75','The Efficiency of Eastern Galega (Galega orientalis) Cultivation','Alexsandr Pavlovich Eryashev , Oleg Alekseevich Timoshkin and Anna Nikolaevna Kshnikatkina','The Efficiency of Eastern Galega Galega orientalis Cultivation Alexsandr Pavlovich Eryashev 1880j1.pdf','',1,'','','','',''),(2051,'75','Comparative Soil Analysis by Scanning Electron Microscope: A Forensic Perspective ','Sharon Philip and Nrashant Singh','Comparative Soil Analysis by Scanning Electron Microscope A Forensic Perspective Sharon Philip 2139j2.pdf','',1,'','','','',''),(2052,'75','A Simple and Efficient Automatic Attendance Management System (SEA2MS) ','Matcha Venu Gopala Rao , Chiticasi Ganesh , Emani Sowjanya , Vaddi Sravya and Kotari Sai Kiran','A Simple and Efficient Automatic Attendance Management System SEA2MS Matcha Venu Gopala Rao 2350j4.pdf','',1,'','','','',''),(2053,'75','Optimized Distributed Resource Allocation for Cloud Computing Applications','Neeru Chauhan , Abhay Bansal and Rakesh Matam','Optimized Distributed Resource Allocation for Cloud Computing Applications Neeru Chauhan 2073j1.pdf','',1,'','','','',''),(2054,'75','User Behaviour and Digital Payment Ecosystem: An Audit of Connections between usage Attributes and Demographic Profile ','Mohit Kumar , Supriya Agrawal and Rishish Mishra','User Behaviour and Digital Payment Ecosystem An Audit of Connections between usage Attributes and Demographic Profile Drj2.pdf','',1,'','','','',''),(2055,'75','Study of Latest Cybersecurity Threats to IT/OT and their Impact on e-Governance in India ','Kishore K. Morya and Mahesh Singh','Study of Latest Cybersecurity Threats to ITOT and their Impact on e Governance in India Mahesh Singh 2063j3.pdf','',1,'','','','',''),(2056,'75','Hydrodynamic Lubrication of Asymmetric Rollers by Power-Law Fluids ','Swetha Lanka , Venkata Subrahmanyam Sajja and Dhaneshwar Prasad','Hydrodynamic Lubrication of Asymmetric Rollers by Power Law Fluids Swetha Lanka 2144j4.pdf','',1,'','','','',''),(2057,'75','Classification using Association Rule Mining over Mammogram Images: A Review','N. Parashar','Classification using Association Rule Mining over Mammogram Images A Review Nj5.pdf','',1,'','','','',''),(2058,'75','A New Modified Sumudu Transform Called Raj Transform to Solve Differential Equations and Problems in Engineering and Science ','C. Jesuraj and A. Rajkumar','A New Modified Sumudu Transform Called Raj Transform to Solve Differential Equations and Problems in Engineering and Science Cj6.pdf','',1,'','','','',''),(2059,'75','Mechanical Properties as a Flexural Strength of Entada Rheedii Fibre and Banana Fibre Hybrid Reinforced Polymer Composites','Unnikrishnan Chakkanath Padi , T.V. Christy and Jerinjose','Mechanical Properties as a Flexural Strength of Entada Rheedii Fibre and Banana Fibre Hybrid Reinforced Polymer Composites UNNIKRISHNAN 1994jj.pdf','',1,'','','','',''),(2060,'75','A Study of Component Gender in Teacher Effectiveness, Personality and Emotional Intelligence amongst High School Educators ','Dayal Sandhu and Monika Agrawal','A Study of Component Gender in Teacher Effectiveness Personality and Emotional Intelligence amongst High School Educators Dr Dayal Sandhu 2255jj2.pdf','',1,'','','','',''),(2061,'74','New Record of Banded Krait Bungarus fasciatus (Schneider, 1801) from Ranchi (Jharkhand) with its Preying on Checkered Keel-Back Snake','Akhlaq Husain','New Record of Banded Krait Bungarus fasciatus Schneider 1801 from Ranchi Jharkhand with its Preying on Checkered KeelBack Snake AKHLAQ HUSSAIN 616j1.pdf','',1,'In India Banded Krait Bungarus fasciatus (Schneider, 1801) commonly occurs in north-eastern India (Arunachal Pradesh, Assam, Manipur, Mizoram, Meghalaya, Nagaland and Tripura) but becomes lesser towards north-west, west, south and south-east (Uttarakhand in north-west; Chhattisgarh and Madhya Pradesh in central India; Maharashtra in west; Karnataka, Kerala and Tamil Nadu in south and Andhra Pradesh and Odisha in south-east). In Jharkhand it was recorded from Bokaro and Hazaribagh districts but presently it has been found in Ranchi district also, preying on Checkered Keel-back Snake which is a new record and adds to its distribution in the state. \r\nIn present communication its synonymy, diagnostic features, altitudinal range, distribution, habitat, food & feeding, breeding, nature & behaviour, bite, venom & treatment, conservation status, threats and preying on Checkered Keel-back Snake are provided.\r\n','New record of Banded Krait from Ranchi with its preying on Checkered Keel-back Snake. ','During present study, it was sighted preying on Checkered Keel-back Snake/Dendu Samp (Fowlea piscator, Schneider, 1799) at Ormanjhi in Ranchi district which is the first record of its preying on said snake from the area. Much before, Primrose (1899) also reported it feeding on this snake but may be elsewhere. It engulfs the prey from head side (as shown in figure), after rendering inactive by its venom.','-','Husain, A. (2020). New Record of Banded Krait Bungarus Fasciatus (Schneider, 1801) from Ranchi (Jharkhand) with its Preying on Checkered Keel-Back Snake. Biological Forum â€“ An International Journal, 12(1): 29-32.'),(2062,'74','Physico-Chemical characteristics of Lakes of Chitwan National Park,\r\nCentral Nepal','Ashika Bhusal and Anjana Devkota','Physico Chemical characteristics of Lakes of Chitwan National Park Central Nepal ANJANA DEVKOTA 602j2.pdf','',1,'Wetlands are the areas where water is the primary factor controlling the environment, associated plant and animal life. Present study had been conducted to investigate the physico-chemical characteristics of water. Five lakes, i.e. Tamor, Beeshazar, Kingfisher, Athaieshazar and Chepang of Chitwan National Park were studied during post-monsoon season. Four different sites were studied for each lake. Twelve replica of water samples were collected from each site of the lakes and physico-chemical parameters, i.e. pH, Temperature, DO, Total Alkalinity, Conductivity, Total Hardness, Nitrate, Inorganic phosphorus, Total Solid Matter and Free CO2 were analyzed by using standard method of APHA, 2012. Data obtained from water analysis were analyzed by SPSS statistics 20. Higher value of nitrate was found in Beeshazar Lake i.e. 4.41Â±0.52 mg/L and higher value of inorganic phosphorus was found in Tamor Lake i.e. 2.93Â±0.29 mg/L. All the studied lakes showed hyper-eutrophic category on the basis ','Hyper-eutrophic, Invasive, Macrophytes, Physico-chemical Characteristics.','In conclusion, studied two lakes, i.e. Kingfisher and Athaieshazar had moderately hard water (i.e. hardness values ranges between 75-150 mg/L) whereas other three lakes, i.e. Tamor, Beeshazar and Chepang had soft water (i.e. hardness values ranges between 0-75 mg/L). Present study showed three lakes, i.e. Tamor Lake, Kingfisher Lake and Athaieshazar Lake had good water quality and two lakes, i.e. Beeshazar Lake and Chepang Lake had poor water quality in terms of DO. Variations on the physico-chemical characteristics of lakes implies the cumulative effect of excessive growth of the invasive macrophytes, high human and wild animalâ€™s disturbances as well as natural disasters. Richness in total nitrogen and phosphorus ranked all the studied lakes hyper-eutrophic. Runoff of polluted water with agricultural fertilizers, pesticides and untreated industrial discharge as well as domestic wastes from Khageri canal and excessive growth of invasive macrophytes are major threats of studied lakes.','-','Bhusal, A. and Devkota, A. (2020). Physico-Chemical characteristics of Lakes of Chitwannational Park, Central Nepal. Biological Forum â€“ An International Journal, 12(1): 33-39.'),(2063,'75','The Effect of Agricultural Technologies on the Dynamics of the content of Mn, Zn, Cd, Co, Pb, and Cu in Leached Back Soil of Western Ciscaucasia and Maize Grains','Nikolay Nikolaevich NeshÑhadim , Irina Vyacheslavovna Shabanova , Alexander Alekseevich Kvashin , Yuriy Petrovich Fedulov and Ludmila Vladimirovna Tsatsenko','The Effect of Agricultural Technologies on the Dynamics of the content of Mn Zn Cd Co Pb and Cu in Leached Back Soil of Western Ciscaucasia and Maize Grains NIKOLAY 1704j1.pdf','',1,'','','','',''),(2064,'75','Effect of Managers Support in Technology based Training on Training Transfer ','Nur Izzaty Mohamad , Azman Ismail and Azmawaty Mohamad Nor','Effect of Managers Support in Technology based Training on Training Transfer Nur Izzaty Mohamadj2.pdf','',1,'','','','',''),(2065,'77','The Competitive Structure and Strategic Positioning of Commercial Banks in Saudi Arabia','Mustafa Raza Rabbani ','The Competitive Structure and Strategic Positioning of Commercial Banks in Saudi Arabia Mustafa Raza Rabbani 1656 m1.pdf','',1,'','','','',''),(2066,'77','Computer Aided Instruction to Teach concepts in Education ','Roberto Suson and Eugenio Ermac','Computer Aided Instruction to Teach concepts in Education Roberto Leopoldo Suson 2035j2.pdf','',1,'','','','',''),(2067,'77','Evaluation of Engineering Properties of Ultra-lightweight Foamed Concrete Produced using the Pre-foamed Method ','Trong-Phuoc Huynh , Van-Hien Pham , Minh-Luan Tran and Nguyen-Trong Ho','Evaluation of Engineering Properties of Ultralightweight Foamed Concrete Produced using the Prefoamed Method TrongPhuoc Huynh 2207j3.pdf','',1,'','','','',''),(2068,'77','Software-in-the-Loop Testing of SSSC with Type-1 Controller Connected to SMIB','S. Venkateswarlu and M. Janaki','Software in the Loop Testing of SSSC with Type 1 Controller Connected to SMIB Dr Mj4.pdf','',1,'','','','',''),(2069,'77','Application of Artificial Intelligence in Improving Operational Efficiency in Telecom Industry ','Santosh Elapanda , U.V. Adinarayana Rao and E. Sravan Kumar','Application of Artificial Intelligence in Improving Operational Efficiency in Telecom Industry Santosh Elapanda 1989j5.pdf','',1,'','','','',''),(2070,'77','Advances in Human Microbiome as an Emerging Tool in Forensics','Mayssa Hachem , Hafiz Ahmad , Ishani Pilankar , Imtinan Abdelrahim , Fatma ALFalasi and Zainab Asif','Advances in Human Microbiome as an Emerging Tool in Forensics Mayssa Hachem 2381 REVISEDj6.pdf','',1,'','','','',''),(2071,'77','Structure Optimized Multi Layer Trespass Perception System in Cloud','Manickam M , Balasundaram A and Ashokkumar S','Structure Optimized Multi Layer Trespass Perception System in Cloud Balasundaram A 2108j1.pdf','',1,'','','','',''),(2072,'77','Latency Optimization of Structured Multi-Controllers in Software defined Networks ','Mythrayee Ramasamy and Sanjay Pawar','Latency Optimization of Structured Multi Controllers in Software defined Networks Mythrayee Ramasamy 2007j2.pdf','',1,'','','','',''),(2073,'77','The Method of Controlling the Valve Mechanism of the Engine for Exhaust Pulsation Experimental Study ','Yurii V. Chepurnyi and Oleksandr M. Leonenko','The Method of Controlling the Valve Mechanism of the Engine for Exhaust Pulsation Experimental Study Yurii V.pdf','',1,'','','','',''),(2074,'77','Study on Temporal Variation of Rainfall over Uttar Pradesh Region India ','Shraddha Yadav, D. Basu and A.K. Sachan','Study on Temporal Variation of Rainfall over Uttar Pradesh Region India ShraddhaYadav 2069j4.pdf','',1,'','','','',''),(2075,'77','Sustainable Solid Waste Management by Integration of waste at Taluka level - A Case study of Nadiad, Gujarat ','Jenil Jani, Arti Pamnani and Jagruti Shah','Sustainable Solid Waste Management by Integration of waste at Taluka level A Case study of Nadiad Gujarat Jenil Jani 2082j5.pdf','',1,'','','','',''),(2076,'77','Psychological or Behavioral Segmentation of Indian Consumers Towards Reference Group Influence via Consumer Conformity: Application of Cluster Analysis','Arun Kaushal','Psychological or Behavioral Segmentation of Indian Consumers Towards Reference Group Influence via Consumer Conformity Application of Cluster Analysis Drj6.pdf','',1,'','','','',''),(2077,'77','Approximation Layer based Weighted Average Image Fusion using Guided Filter for Medical Images ','Anandbabu Gopatoti, Poornaiah Billa and Kiran Kumar Gopathoti','Approximation Layer based Weighted Average Image Fusion using Guided Filter for Medical Images Anandbabu Gopatoti 2087j7.pdf','',1,'','','','',''),(2078,'77','Evaluation of Experimental Datasets on Physical properties of Natural Sands and Crushed Sand ','Prakash Bhaskarrao Kulkarni and Pravin Dinkar Nemade','Evaluation of Experimental Datasets on Physical properties of Natural Sands and Crushed Sand Prakash Bhaskarrao Kulkarni 2263j8.pdf','',1,'','','','',''),(2079,'77','Clustering the Customer based on Perception Towards Financial Advertisement: A Case of India ','Pallavi Dogra','Clustering the Customer based on Perception Towards Financial Advertisement A Case of India Pallavi Dogra 2244j9.pdf','',1,'','','','',''),(2080,'77','Optimization Techniques and Algorithms for DG placement in Distribution System: A Review','Harish Kumar Pujari and Mageshvaran R.','Optimization Techniques and Algorithms for DG placement in Distribution System A Review Harish Kumar Pujari 2220j1.pdf','',1,'','','','',''),(2081,'77','The Efficient way to Detect and Stall Fake Articles in Public Media using the Blockchain Technique: Proof of Trustworthiness','S. Phani Praveen , Ha Huy Cuong Nguyen , D. Swapna , K. Koteswara Rao and D. Lokesh Sai Kumar','The Efficient way to Detect and Stall Fake Articles in Public Media using the Blockchain Technique Proof of Trustworthiness K Koteswara Raoj2.pdf','',1,'','','','',''),(2082,'77','Design of a Fault Detection and Recovery method for Cluster based Underwater Wireless Sensor Networks ','Tejaswini R. Murgod and S. Meenakshi Sundaram','Design of a Fault Detection and Recovery method for Cluster based Underwater Wireless Sensor Networks Tejaswini R Murgod 2165j1.pdf','',1,'','','','',''),(2083,'77','Bearing Capacity Analysis of a Square Footing Supported on Geogrid Reinforced Sand ','Anand Shrigondekar and Prabhuling Ullagaddi','Bearing Capacity Analysis of a Square Footing Supported on Geogrid Reinforced Sand Anand Shrigondekar 2246j2.pdf','',1,'','','','',''),(2084,'77','Effects of Addition of Cement in Flyash based Geopolymer Concrete ','Samuvel Raj R. and Prince Arulraj G.','Effects of Addition of Cement in Flyash based Geopolymer Concrete Samuvel Raj R 2196j3.pdf','',1,'','','','',''),(2085,'77','Development and Validation of Indigenously developed DNA Detection System for M. tuberculosis','Yogesh Patil and Mansee Thakur','Development and Validation of Indigenously developed DNA Detection System for Mj4.pdf','',1,'','','','',''),(2086,'77','Relationship between Various Leadership Behavior Practices and Leadership Effectiveness of Transformational Corporate Business Leaders in Kolkata in dealing with the Challenges of Disruptive Change in VUCA World','Prof. Moumita Chatterjee','Relationship between Various Leadership Behavior Practices and Leadership Effectiveness of Transformational Corporate Business Leaders in Kolkata in dealing with the Challenges of DisruMoumita Chatterjee 1963j1.pdf','',1,'','','','',''),(2087,'77','Machine Learning - A Neoteric Medicine to Healthcare','Arjun K.P. and K. Sampath Kumar','Machine Learning - A Neoteric Medicine to Healthcare Arjun K. P.-28.pdf','',1,'-','-','-','-','-'),(2088,'77','Effect of Nano Materials on increasing the Capacity of Spillways','Kalai Selvi R. , Muthukumaran N. and Prince Arulraj G.','Effect of Nano Materials on increasing the Capacity of Spillways Kalai Selvi R 2211j6.pdf','',1,'','','','',''),(2089,'77','An Amalgam Method efficient for Finding of Cancer Gene using CSC from Micro Array Data ','Sanjay Kumar , J.N. Singh and Naresh Kumar','An Amalgam Method efficient for Finding of Cancer Gene using CSC from Micro Array Data Sanjay Kumar 2199j7.pdf','',1,'','','','',''),(2090,'77','Economic Impact of Gender Inequality in Service Sector in Bengaluru City','A. Senthil Kumar and Sana Begum M','Economic Impact of Gender Inequality in Service Sector in Bengaluru City Aj8.pdf','',1,'','','','',''),(2091,'77','Comprehensive Data Analysis and Prediction on IPL using Machine Learning Algorithms ','Amala Kaviya V.S , Amol Suraj Mishra and Valarmathi B','Comprehensive Data Analysis and Prediction on IPL using Machine Learning Algorithms Valarmathi B 2113j1.pdf','',1,'','','','',''),(2092,'77','Enhancing Quality of Service Detection Service with Priority Approach in Medium Access Layer ','K. Kannan , M. Devaraju and S. Rosaline','Enhancing Quality of Service Detection Service with Priority Approach in Medium Access Layer Kj2.pdf','',1,'','','','',''),(2093,'77','Poikilocyte Cell Detection in Microscopic Images of Blood Smears using Image Processing Techniques ','Sumit Kumar Roy , Hemlata Sinha , Pankaj Mishra and Divya Tyagi','Poikilocyte Cell Detection in Microscopic Images of Blood Smears using Image Processing Techniques SKj3.pdf','',1,'','','','',''),(2094,'77','An Improved Sierpinski Fractal MIMO Array Antenna with Enhanced Isolation for Next Generation Wireless Applications ','Manas Ranjan Jena , Guru Prasad Mishra , Amiya Bhusana Sahoo and B.B. Mangaraj','An Improved Sierpinski Fractal MIMO Array Antenna with Enhanced Isolation for Next Generation Wireless Applications Manas Ranjan Jena 2055j4.pdf','',1,'','','','',''),(2095,'77','Optimal Load Shedding Model based on Sensitivity Analysis for Line Overload Mitigation using Sine Cosine Algorithm ','C.D. Patel, T. K. Tailor, S.S. Shah and S. Shrivastava','Optimal Load Shedding Model based on Sensitivity Analysis for Line Overload Mitigation using Sine Cosine Algorithm C Dj6.pdf','',1,'','','','',''),(2096,'77','A Study on the Factors Effecting Online Shopping Among Young Professionals','Anoop Scaria , Milna Antony , Milana Antony and Anagha P','A Study on the Factors Effecting Online Shopping Among Young Professionals Anoop Scaria 2215.pdf','',1,'','','','',''),(2097,'77','Experimental Investigation of the Dehumidification Performance of a Novel Flat Plate Liquid Desiccant Dehumidification System','Akash Sharma and Rajneesh Kaushal ','Experimental Investigation of the Dehumidification Performance of a Novel Flat Plate Liquid Desiccant Dehumidification System Akash Sharma 2505j8.pdf','',1,'','','','',''),(2098,'77','A Framework for Sentiment Analysis of Online News Articles ','Jeelani Ahmed and Muqeem Ahmed','A Framework for Sentiment Analysis of Online News Articles Jeelani Ahmedj1.pdf','',1,'','','','',''),(2099,'77','Identification of Gene Mutation in Sickle Cell Anemia in Tribal Population of Rajasthan','Sonika Parmar , Dr. G.S. Toteja and Ritu Chauhan','Identification of Gene Mutation in Sickle Cell Anemia in Tribal Population of Rajasthanj2.pdf','',1,'','','','',''),(2100,'77','Analysis and Comparison of Aluminium Matrix Composite in Pressure Vessel ','Vinoth N and Mohanavel V','Analysis and Comparison of Aluminium Matrix Composite in Pressure Vesselj1.pdf','',1,'','','','',''),(2101,'77','L & T\'s Acquisition of Mindtree - Whether a Strategic Fit?','Vishal Srivastava , Sunder Ram Korivi and Dipasha Sharma','L & Ts Acquisition of Mindtree Whether a Strategic Fit Vishal Srivastava 2183j2.pdf','',1,'','','','',''),(2102,'77','Simulation of Different Modes of Excitation and Field Patterns of CDRA Antenna for Integrated Applications ','Saranga Mohan, Dioline Sara and Santhosh','Simulation of Different Modes of Excitation and Field Patterns of CDRA Antenna for Integrated Applications Saranga Mohan 1999j3.pdf','',1,'','','','',''),(2103,'77','Enhance Confidentiality by the usage of a Database Management Framework Features to Facilitate Applications Integration','Hena Iqbal , M. Habli and Tawfik Zeki','Enhance Confidentiality by the usage of a Database Management Framework Features to Facilitate Applications Integration Hena Iqbal 2525j4.pdf','',1,'','','','',''),(2104,'77','A Comparative Analysis of Applying Object Detection Models with Transfer Learning for Flower Species Detection and Classification ','Isha Patel and Sanskruti Patel','A Comparative Analysis of Applying Object Detection Models with Transfer Learning for Flower Species Detection and Classification Isha Patel 2385j5.pdf','',1,'','','','',''),(2105,'77','Qualified Scrutiny for Real-Time Object Tracking Framework ','Ravindra R. Patil , Omkar S. Vaidya , Gayatri M. Phade and Sanjay T. Gandhe','Qualified Scrutiny for RealTime Object Tracking Framework RAVINDRA R PATIL 2229j6.pdf','',1,'','','','',''),(2106,'77','Comparative Analysis of Wavelet bi-spectrum and Power Spectrum Features for the Classification of Adventitious Lung Sound ','Rupesh Dubey, Rajesh M. Bodade and Divya Dubey','Comparative Analysis of Wavelet bi spectrum and Power Spectrum Features for the Classification of Adventitious Lung Sound Rupesh Dubey 1714j7.pdf','',1,'','','','',''),(2107,'77','Cost Optimization of PV-Diesel Systems in Nanogrid using Cuckoo Search Algorithm and its Application in Mobile Towers','C. Murugesan and C.N. Marimuthu','Cost Optimization of PV Diesel Systems in Nanogrid using Cuckoo Search Algorithm and its Application in Mobile Towers Cj8.pdf','',1,'','','','',''),(2108,'77','Employees Self-Efficacy, Optimism, Hope, Resilience and Demographic variables as the Determinants of Job Performance','Mohammad Saleh Miralam and Nasir Ali','Employees Self Efficacy Optimism Hope Resilience and Demographic variables as the Determinants of Job Performance Dr.pdf','',1,'','','','',''),(2109,'77','Role of Artificial Intelligence in Transforming the Justice Delivery System in COVID 19 Pandemic ','Geetanjali Chandra, Ruchika Gupta and Nidhi Agarwal','Role of Artificial Intelligence in Transforming the Justice Delivery System in COVID 19 Pandemic Dr.pdf','',1,'','','','',''),(2110,'77','Hybrid Meta-Heuristic Algorithm for Energy-Efficient Task Scheduling in Cloud Data Centers ','Vivek Gehlot , S.P. Singh and Akash Saxena','Hybrid Meta Heuristic Algorithm for Energy Efficient Task Scheduling in Cloud Data Centers Vivek Gehlot 2190j1.pdf','',1,'','','','',''),(2111,'77','Current Status of Nanotechnology based Academic Entrepreneurship in Indonesia ','Radyum Ikono, Nurul Taufiqu Rochman, Kirbrandoko and Rizal Syarief','Current Status of Nanotechnology based Academic Entrepreneurship in Indonesia Radyum Ikono 2192j2.pdf','',1,'','','','',''),(2112,'77','Multi-population Firefly Algorithm (MFA) based MAC Protocol for Dynamic Sleep Scheduling in Clustered IoT Sensor Networks ','G. Srinivasan ','Multipopulation Firefly Algorithm MFA based MAC Protocol for Dynamic Sleep Scheduling in Clustered IoT Sensor Networks Gj3.pdf','',1,'','','','',''),(2113,'77','Interactive Segmentation Technique for Ex-Vivo Skin Laceration Detection','Varnita Verma, Anil Kumar , Piyush Chauhan and Mukul Kumar Gupta','Interactive Segmentation Technique for ExVivo Skin Laceration Detection Varnita Verma 1919j4.pdf','',1,'','','','',''),(2114,'77','Performance Evaluation of Supervised and Unsupervised Machine Learning Algorithms by Predicting Cardiovascular Heart Disease ','K. Kavitha and K. Kala','Performance Evaluation of Supervised and Unsupervised Machine Learning Algorithms by Predicting Cardiovascular Heart Disease Dr Kj1.pdf','',1,'','','','',''),(2115,'77','Increasing Efficiency of Process Discovery Algorithms and Process model Discovery from Unlabeled Event Logs: A Review ','Muktikanta Sahu and Gopal Krishna Nayak','Increasing Efficiency of Process Discovery Algorithms and Process model Discovery from Unlabeled Event Logs A Review Muktikanta Sahu 2261j2.pdf','',1,'','','','',''),(2116,'77','The Approach of Identifying Fake Identity by using Hybrid Ant Neuro-Fuzzy Clustering based Method ','Anupriya Jain and Seema Sharma','The Approach of Identifying Fake Identity by using Hybrid Ant Neuro Fuzzy Clustering based Method Drj3.pdf','',1,'','','','',''),(2117,'77','Video Object Segmentation and Classification with Improved Kalman Filter-based Method for People Tracking ','Dr. Matheswari Rajamanickam','Video Object Segmentation and Classification with Improved Kalman Filter based Method for People Tracking Drj4.pdf','',1,'','','','',''),(2118,'77','Industrial Carp Feeding Assessment of the Morphological Composition of the Body ','Yuliya Anatolievna Guseva , Alexey Alekseevich Vasiliev , Irina Vasilievna Poddubnaya , Peter Sergeevich Tarasov , Igor Olegovich Matsyupa ,Vladimir Vladimirovich Zaitsev ,Vyacheslav Gennadievich Dikusarov and Dmitrii Aleksandrovich Randelin','Industrial Carp Feeding Assessment of the Morphological Composition of the Body YULIYA 1616j5.pdf','',1,'','','','',''),(2120,'77','Scheduling of Tasks (Cloudlets) in Heterogeneous Processing Cloud\r\nEnvironment ','Nishant Kumar and Raj Kumar','Scheduling of Tasks Cloudlets in Heterogeneous Processing Cloud Environment Nishant Kumar 2501j6.pdf','',1,'','','','',''),(2121,'77','Augmentation of Groundwater Recharge in Rainwater Harvesting Systems: A Coastal City Study ','Anoop Bahuguna , Kishan Singh Rawat , Sudhir Kumar Singh and Sanjeev Kumar','Augmentation of Groundwater Recharge in Rainwater Harvesting Systems A Coastal City Study Kishan Singh Rawat 2310j1.pdf','',1,'','','','',''),(2122,'77','Comparisons of Blockchain based Consensus Algorithms for Security Aspects','Mansi Bosamia and Dharmendra Patel','Comparisons of Blockchain based Consensus Algorithms for Security Aspects Mansi Bosamia 1617j2.pdf','',1,'','','','',''),(2123,'77','Multi Co-Trained Gated Recurrent Neural Network for efficient Document Indexing: MCTGRNN','Y. Krishna Bhargavi , Y.S.S.R. Murthy and O. Srinivasa Rao','Multi CoTrained Gated Recurrent Neural Network for efficient Document Indexing MCTGRNN Yj3.pdf','',1,'','','','',''),(2124,'77','Image Fusion using Hybrid Genetic Algorithm ','Jyoti S. Kulkarni and Rajankumar S. Bichkar ','Image Fusion using Hybrid Genetic Algorithm Jyoti Sj4.pdf','',1,'','','','',''),(2125,'77','Improved Recovery in Wideband Spectrum Sensing for Wireless Applications ','T.V.N.L. Aswini , Padma Raju. K and Leela Kumari. B','Improved Recovery in Wideband Spectrum Sensing for Wireless Applications T V N L Aswini 2300j1.pdf','',1,'','','','',''),(2126,'77','An Effective Framework for Bridging the Gap between Industry and Academia','S. Zeidan and M.M. Bishnoi','An Effective Framework for Bridging the Gap between Industry and Academia Drj2.pdf','',1,'','','','',''),(2127,'77','Deep Learning in Pandemic States: Portrayal','Khushi Sharma and Dr. Madhulika Bhatia','Deep Learning in Pandemic States Portrayal Khushi Sharma 2598j1.pdf','',1,'','','','',''),(2128,'77','Design and Implementation of a United Multi-Core Memory Controller using AXI4- Lite Interface Protocol ','Ahmed Noami , B. Pradeep Kumar and P. Chandrasekhar','Design and Implementation of a United Multi Core Memory Controller using AXI4 Lite Interface Protocol Ahmed Noami 2294j4.pdf','',1,'','','','',''),(2129,'77','Multi-Objective Optimal Power Flow Including FACTS Devices using Moth Flame Optimizer ','Sundaram B. Pandya and Hitesh R. Jariwala','Multi Objective Optimal Power Flow Including FACTS Devices using Moth Flame Optimizer Sundaram Bj5.pdf','',1,'','','','',''),(2130,'77','Frequency Reconfigurable Ultra-Wide Band MIMO Antenna for 4G/5G Portable Devices Applications: Review','Shivleela Mudda and K.M. Gayathri','Frequency Reconfigurable Ultra Wide Band MIMO Antenna for 4G5G Portable Devices Applications Review Shivleela Mudda 2306j6.pdf','',1,'','','','',''),(2131,'77','Effect of Treatments on Thermo-mechanical Properties of Epoxy based Sisal Biocomposites ','Naveen Kumar , Ajaya Bharti and M.K. Gupta','Effect of Treatments on Thermo mechanical Properties of Epoxy based Sisal Biocomposites Naveen Kumar 2311j7.pdf','',1,'','','','',''),(2132,'77','Preprocessing and Multi Feature Extraction Method for Automated Plant Species Identification ','A.M. Bojamma and Chandrasekar B.S','Preprocessing and Multi Feature Extraction Method for Automated Plant Species Identification AM BOJAMMA 1915j6.pdf','',1,'','','','',''),(2133,'77','Driver Drowsiness Detection System using Convolutional Neural Network','Komal , P. Sharma , A. Lamba , B. Nagpal and S. Chauhan','Driver Drowsiness Detection System using Convolutional Neural Network Komal 2340j1.pdf','',1,'','','','',''),(2134,'77','Effect of Mineral matter on Ash Combustion Behavior of Indian Coal ','Priya Ranjan Mishra , Rina Sahu and Sanchita Chakravarty','Effect of Mineral matter on Ash Combustion Behavior of Indian CoalPriya Ranjan Mishra 2245j2.pdf','',1,'','','','',''),(2135,'77','Refinement of Concrete Characteristic Properties with Multi Walled Carbon Nano Tubes ','P. Mudasir and J.A. Naqash','Refinement of Concrete Characteristic Properties with Multi Walled Carbon Nano Tubes Pj3.pdf','',1,'','','','',''),(2136,'77','DLDroid: Feature Selection based Malware Detection Framework for Android Apps developed during COVID-19','Arvind Mahindru and A.L. Sangal','DLDroid Feature Selection based Malware Detection Framework for Android Apps developed during COVID 19 Arvind Mahindru 2609j4.pdf','',1,'','','','',''),(2137,'77','Workplace Friendships: An Affirmative Effect on the Organizational Obligation ','Anand Kumar Gupta ','Workplace Friendships An Affirmative Effect on the Organizational Obligation Drj5.pdf','',1,'','','','',''),(2138,'77','Heart Disease Detection using Core Machine Learning and Deep Learning Techniques: A Comparative Study','Sujay Das , Ritesh Sharma , Mahendra Kumar Gourisaria , Siddharth Swarup Rautaray and Manjusha Pandey','Heart Disease Detection using Core Machine Learning and Deep Learning Techniques A Comparative Study Mahendra Kumar Gourisaria 2427j6.pdf','',1,'','','','',''),(2139,'77','Application Program Interface on Artificial Neural Network in QGIS using Python','P.S.S. Nagalakshmi, N. Shrishti, P. Soumya, G. Chandi Priya and D. Sree Vishnupriya','Application Program Interface on Artificial Neural Network in QGIS using Python PSSj7.pdf','',1,'','','','',''),(2140,'77','The Determinants of Gastronomic Tourists Satisfaction ','Nafees Haider Naqvi','The Determinants of Gastronomic Tourists Satisfaction Nafees Haider Naqvi 2493j0.pdf','',1,'','','','',''),(2141,'77','A Survey on Big Data Analytical Tools & Techniques in Healthcare Sector ','Sarita Mishra , Manjusha Pandey , Siddharth Swarup Rautaray and Mahendra Kumar Gourisaria','A Survey on Big Data Analytical Tools & Techniques in Healthcare Sector Sarita Mishra 2338j1.pdf','',1,'','','','',''),(2142,'77','Reduction in Amplitude of Vibration using Piezoelectric Material Patch','Fegade Pushkar Vinayak and Rahul B. Barjibhe','Reduction in Amplitude of Vibration using Piezoelectric Material Patch Fegade Pushkar Vinayak 2269j2.pdf','',1,'','','','',''),(2143,'77','Synthesis of Chemically Modified Activated Carbon for Supercapacitor ElectrodeDerived from Fibers of Musa paradisiaca','Senthil Kumar Kandasamy , Chandrasekaran Arumugam , Logupriya Vadivel , Madhumitha Ganapathi , Nanthakumar Nattudurai and Kannan Kandasamy','Synthesis of Chemically Modified Activated Carbon for Supercapacitor Electrode Derived from Fibers of Musa paradisiaca Senthil Kumar Kandasamy 1877j4.pdf','',1,'','','','',''),(2144,'77','Design of Combined Cam and Piercing Progressive Die Set for a Sheet Metal Component ','R. Rahul and M. Thenarasu','Design of Combined Cam and Piercing Progressive Die Set for a Sheet Metal Component M Thenarasu 2401j4.pdf','',1,'','','','',''),(2145,'77','Two Heads are better than One: Multi-Founder firms and Quality Signals to Investors and Acquirers ','Snehal Shetty and Ranjany Sundaram','Two Heads are better than One Multi Founder firms and Quality Signals to Investors and Acquirers Snehal Shetty 1707j5.pdf','',1,'','','','',''),(2146,'77','A 900 MHz High Gain Low Noise Figure Down Converter Mixer for Wireless Applications ','Abhay Chaturvedi','A 900 MHz High Gain Low Noise Figure Down Converter Mixer for Wireless Applications Abhay Chaturvedij6.pdf','',1,'','','','',''),(2147,'77','Removal of Heavy Metals and Dyes from Aqueous Medium by using Graft copolymers of Quinoa and Arrowroot Bases','Meenakshi Sharma , Vandna Kumari , Rajan , Kuldeep Kumar and Muneesh Sethi','Removal of Heavy Metals and Dyes from Aqueous Medium by using Graft copolymers of Quinoa and Arrowroot Bases Drj7.pdf','',1,'','','','',''),(2148,'77','Numerical Study of Wind Excited Action on H Plan-Shaped Tall Building ','Ritu Raj , Tushar Rana , Tushar Anchalia and Utkarsh Khola','Numerical Study of Wind Excited Action on H Plan Shaped Tall Building Tushar Rana 2492j8.pdf','',1,'','','','',''),(2149,'77','Hardware Implementation of PV and Synchronous Generator based Micro Grid with Power Quality Controller','Sudhir G. Mane ,Sandeep Kudal , Ashish Anna Malgave and Iranna M. Korachagaon','Hardware Implementation of PV and Synchronous Generator based Micro Grid with Power Quality Controller Sudhir Gj9.pdf','',1,'','','','',''),(2150,'77','Experimental Investigation on Flexural Behavior of Reinforced Concrete Curved Beams with different Types of Shear Reinforcement ','Jeyashree T.M. and M. Nethaji','Experimental Investigation on Flexural Behavior of Reinforced Concrete Curved Beams with different Types of Shear Reinforcement TMj0.pdf','',1,'','','','',''),(2151,'77','Web Page Categorization based on Images as Multimedia Visual Feature using Deep Convolution Neural Network','Amit Kumar Nandanwar and Jaytrilok Choudhary','Web Page Categorization based on Images as Multimedia Visual Feature using Deep Convolution Neural Network Amit Nandanwar 2666n1.pdf','',1,'','','','',''),(2152,'77','On the Efficient Shape Retrieval of Symmetric Curves using Fourier Descriptors','Ramamurthy Suri , Gopikrishna Pulluri and Keerthana Nakka','On the efficient Shape Retrieval of Symmetric Curves using Fourier Descriptors Ramamurthy Suri 2355j1.pdf','',1,'','','','',''),(2153,'77','Key Generation using Featured based Finite Element Method ','Chandra Prakash Singar , Jyoti Bharti and R.K. Pateriya','Key Generation using Featured based Finite Element Method Chandra Prakash Singar 1309j2.pdf','',1,'','','','',''),(2154,'77','Isolation and Characterization of Potassium Solubilizing Bacteria in some Vietnamese Soil Samples','Nguyen Van Giang , To Thi Hoai , Vuong Minh Trang , Khuat Huu Trung ,Tran Dang Xuan , Vu Xuan Duong , Pham Khanh Huyen , Vu Thi Ngoc Diep , Nguyen Thanh Trung, Tran Dang Khanh and Pham Thi Ly Thu','Isolation and Characterization of Potassium Solubilizing Bacteria in some Vietnamese Soil Samples TRAN DANG KHANH 2262j3.pdf','',1,'','','','',''),(2155,'77','Design Approach of Bio-Gas Digester for Energy Harvesting by Municipal Solid Waste Management in Agartala City ','Sukanta Chakraborty , Manish Pal , Kaberi Majumdar and Pankaj Kumar Roy','Design Approach of Bio Gas Digester for Energy Harvesting by Municipal Solid Waste Management in Agartala City Sukanta Chakraborty 2118j4.pdf','',1,'','','','',''),(2156,'78','An annotated checklist of Dicotyledonus Angiosperms in Darjeeling Himalayas and foothills, West Bengal, India\r\n','Jayanta Kumar Mallick ','An annotated checklist of Dicotyledonus Angiosperms in Darjeeling Himalayas.pdf','',1,'','','','',''),(2157,'78','Dalechampia & Micrococoa â€“ Two Generic addition for flora of Aravalli range, India with Status of Family-Euphorbiaceae of Todgarh-Raoli wildlife sanctuary, Rajasthan, India','C. S. Purohit','Dalechampia & Micrococoa Two Generic addition for flora of Aravalli range.pdf','',1,'','','','',''),(2158,'78','Six taxa of angiosperms as new distributional records for Chhattisgarh, India ','K.K. Khanna, Arjun Prasad Tiwari and A.N. Shukla','Six taxa of angiosperms as new distributional a3.pdf','',1,'','','','',''),(2159,'78','HPLC analysis of Gloriosa superba L., from five different accessions of Tamil Nadu state, India ','J.A.Paul Jasmine , T. Sundari and V. Balakrishnan','HPLC analysis of Gloriosa superba L from five a4.pdf','',1,'','','','',''),(2160,'78','Camellia hagiangensis, a new species of red Camellia (Theaceae) recorded from Northern Vietnam','Quang - Ung Le * , Thi - Thu Le , Viet - Hung Nguyen , Thi - Ngoc Lanh , Dinh - Ha Tran','Camellia hagiangensis a new species of red1.pdf','',1,'','','','',''),(2161,'78','Impact of vermicompost on the productivity of two edible legumes ','Suvarna Geetha , Balakrishna S. Bhagya and Kandikere R. Sridhar','Impact of vermicompost on the productivity a6.pdf','',1,'','','','',''),(2162,'78','Nestling Growth and Development of an Endemic Avian Species, The Brown Rock Chat (Cercomula fusca), in Udhampur District, Jammu and Kashmir, India','Brinder Kumar','Nestling Growth and Development of an Endemic a7.pdf','',1,'','','','',''),(2163,'77','A Dimensional Data Model for Healthcare Revenue Cycle Analytics and Business Intelligence ','Joseph George and M. K. Jeyakumar','A Dimensional Data Model for Healthcare Revenue Cycle Analytics and Business Intelligence Joseph George a1.pdf','',1,'','','','',''),(2164,'77','Does a Retailer Service Influence more on Buying Decisions of Decorative Paint ?','Malkar Vinod , Bhayani Mital and Patil Manali','Does a Retailer Service Influence more on Buying Decisions of Decorative Paint Dr Vinod R a2.pdf','',1,'','','','',''),(2165,'77','Improving the Classification Accuracy using Recursive Feature Elimination with Cross-Validation ','Puneet Misra and Arun Singh Yadav','Improving the Classification Accuracy using Recursive Feature Elimination with Cross Validation Puneet Misra a3.pdf','',1,'','','','',''),(2166,'77','Stochastic Modeling of Human Fertilization Using Uniform Distribution ','Tirupathi Rao Padi , S. Abarna and Mohammed Hisham','Stochastic Modeling of Human Fertilization Using Uniform Distribution Tirupathi Rao Padi a4.pdf','',1,'','','','',''),(2167,'77','Experimental Investigation on Influence of Additives on Emissions, Combustion and Performance of Diesel Engine along with EGR fueled with Waste Cooking Oil derived Biodiesel ','Ashley Lobo, D.K. Ramesh , Dwaipayan Roy Chowdhury and Aditya Mitra ','Experimental Investigation on Influence of Additives on Emissions Combustion and Performance of Diesel Engine along with EGR fueled with Waste Cooking Oil derived Biodiesel Ashley Lobo a5.pdf','',1,'','','','',''),(2168,'77','Reliable Face Recognition System using KPCA based Feature vector ','S. Princy Suganthi Bai , D. Ponmary Pushpa Latha , D. Joseph Pushpa Raj and R. David Vinodhkumar Paul','Reliable Face Recognition System using KPCA based Feature vector D a6.pdf','',1,'','','','',''),(2174,'75','Bipolar Sigmoid Algorithm for Designing Constructive Neural Network','Jaswinder Kaur and Neha Gupta','Bipolar Sigmoid Algorithm for Designing Constructive Neural Network-Jaswinder Kaur.pdf','',1,'','','','',''),(2175,'75','Chromosomal Analysis and Parental Age Effect on Incidence of Downâ€™s \r\nSyndrome in the Population of Himachal Pradesh: A Pilot Study','Neelam Thakur','Chromosomal Analysis and Parental Age Effect on Incidence of Downâ€™s Syndrome in the Population of Himachal Pradesh A Pilot Study NEELAM THAKUR 863.pdf','',1,'','','','',''),(2176,'75','Spatio-temporal disposition of Chandra basin Glaciers from 1980 to 2011, Lahaul \r\nand Spiti Himalayan Region, Himachal Pradesh, India','Sunil Dhar , Arun Kumar and Shashi Kant Rai','Spatio-temporal disposition of Chandra basin Glaciers from 1980 to 2011, Lahaul and Spiti Himalayan Region, Himachal Pradesh, India Sunil Dhar 1777.pdf','',1,'','','','',''),(2177,'75','An Approach providing Congestion Control & Avoidance using Priority based \r\nEnergy Efficient mechanism for Internet of Things (IoT)','Akansha Sarad1\r\n, Apurv Verma2\r\n and Abhishek Badholia','An Approach providing Congestion Control & Avoidance using Priority based Energy Efficient mechanism for Internet of Things _IoT_ Akansha Sarad 2571.pdf','',1,'','','','',''),(2178,'75','A Review on Jatropha curcas Derived Biodiesel for Economic and Sustainable \r\nDevelopment','Bhawna Yadav Lamba1\r\n, Sapna Jain2 and Sanjeev Kumar','A Review on Jatropha curcas Derived Biodiesel for Economic and Sustainable Development Bhawna Yadav Lamba 2484.pdf','',1,'','','','',''),(2179,'75','Extended Bipolar Sigmoid Algorithm for Enhancing Performance of Constructive \r\nNeural Network','Jaswinder Kaur and Neha Gupta','Extended Bipolar Sigmoid Algorithm for Enhancing Performance of Constructive Neural Network-Jaswinder Kaur.pdf','',1,'','','','',''),(2180,'75','Phytoconstituents Analysis of Hydroalcoholic Root Extract of Premna integrifolia L.: An Important Ingredient of Herbal Formulation Dashamula','Pooja Verma, Jyoti Dixit and Kavindra Nath Tiwari','Phytoconstituents Analysis of Hydroalcoholic Root Extract of Premna integrifolia L.pdf','',1,'','','','',''),(2181,'77','Impact of Emotional Intelligence on Employeesâ€™ job Performance with Mediating Role of Self efficacy: An Empirical Evidence from Chinese Academicians','Wei Guorong and Asindar Hanim Yusuf ','Impact of Emotional Intelligence on Employeesâ€™ job Performance with Mediating Role of Self efficacy An Empirical Evidence from Chinese Academicians Wei Guorong 2703.pdf','',1,'','','','',''),(2182,'77','Design of Smart Pulse Oximeter using ATMEGA 328 Microcontroller','Deivasigamani S., G. Narmadha, Manickam Ramasamy, Harrindraprasad and and Pratap Nair\r\n','Design of Smart Pulse Oximeter using ATMEGA 328 Microcontroller Deivasigamani.pdf','',1,'','','','',''),(2183,'77','NPC-VSI Operated PLL Based SSSC for Transmission Line Power Flow Contro','Shaik Rafi Kiran, J.T. Ramalingeswar and S. Varadarajan','NPC-VSI Operated PLL Based SSSC for Transmission Line Power Flow Control Shaik.pdf','',1,'','','','',''),(2184,'77','Morphological based Optimized Random Forest classification for Indian Oxygen Plants','Shilpi Aggarwal, Rosy Madaan and Madhulika Bhatia','Morphological based Optimized Random Forest classification for Indian Oxygen Plants Shilpi Aggarwal 2689.pdf','',1,'','','','',''),(2185,'77','Macroeconomic Variables and Securities Returns: An Impact Assessment','Anindita Adhikary, Neeta Dhusia Sharma and Bedanta Bora','Macroeconomic Variables and Securities Returns An Impact Assessment Bedanta Bora 2402.pdf','',1,'','','','',''),(2186,'77','A Heuristic Approach for all-terminal Network Reliability using OANN','Anuradha1, A.K. Solanki and Harish Kumar Taluja','A Heuristic Approach for all-terminal Network Reliability using OANN Anuradha 2456.pdf','',1,'','','','',''),(2187,'77','Nuclei Segmentation in Cell Images using Fully Convolutional Neural Networks','Siddharth Swarup Rautaray, Sohom Dey, Manjusha Pandey and Mahendra Kumar Gourisaria','Nuclei Segmentation in Cell Images using Fully Convolutional Neural Networks Siddharth Swarup Rautaray 2394.pdf','',1,'','','','',''),(2188,'77','Design Methods of MIMO Antenna for 5G New Radio Applications in Mobile Terminals-A Review','Hatte J.S. and Rupali B. Patil','Design Methods of MIMO Antenna for 5G New Radio Applications in Mobile Terminals-A Review Hatte J S 2476.pdf','',1,'','','','',''),(2189,'77','Depiction of Aluminum-Fly ash hybrid Composites','Sankar Narayan Das, Jajneswar Nanda, Anup Choudhury and Rabindra Behera','Depiction of Aluminum-Fly ash hybrid Composites Sankar Narayan Das 2302.pdf','',1,'','','','',''),(2190,'77','New Optimal Fourth Order Iterative Method for Solving Nonlinear Equations','Ekta Sharma, Sunil Panday and Mona Dwivedi','New Optimal Fourth Order Iterative Method for Solving Nonlinear Equations Ekta Sharma 2481.pdf','',1,'','','','',''),(2191,'77','Brands Inspired by Spiritual Leaders: Exploring Indian FMCG Market and New Age Consumers\r\n\r\n ','Ambika Bhatia and Ajay Rathore','Brands Inspired by Spiritual Leaders Exploring Indian FMCG Market and New Age Consumers Ajay Rathore 2463.pdf','',1,'','','','',''),(2192,'77','A Novel Enhanced Energy Efficient and Secure Routing Protocol for MANET','Nisar Ahmad Malik and Munishwar Rai','A Novel Enhanced Energy Efficient and Secure Routing Protocol for MANET Nisar Ahmad Malik 2368.pdf','',1,'','','','',''),(2193,'77','Behavioral Advertising with Big Data: A Consumerâ€™s Perspective','Deepika Puri and Tarannum Mohan','Behavioral Advertising with Big Data A Consumerâ€™s Perspective Deepika Puri 2504.pdf','',1,'','','','',''),(2194,'77','Evaluation of Commutersâ€™ Travel Behavior under Mix Traffic Condition: A Case Study of Vadodara City','Faizi Ahmad Javeed, Juremelani Jayesh R. and Bagadia Sanket','Evaluation of Commutersâ€™ Travel Behavior under Mix Traffic Condition A Case Study of Vadodara City Ahmad Javeed Faizi 2439.pdf','',1,'','','','',''),(2195,'77','Mathematical Modelling of Impact of Vaccination in Controlling Japanese Encephalitis\r\n\r\n ','Bapan Kalita and Anuradha Devi','Mathematical Modelling of Impact of Vaccination in Controlling Japanese Encephalitis Bapan Kalita 2507.pdf','',1,'','','','',''),(2196,'77','A Review on the Improvement in Internet of Things Development using Fog Computing','Aarti Rani, Vijay Prakash and Manuj Darbari','A Review on the Improvement in Internet of Things Development using Fog Computing Aarti Rani 1577.pdf','',1,'','','','',''),(2197,'77','Execution of various Types of Controllers to Fix the Ball Position of Magnetic Levitation System\r\n\r\n ','D. Subbulekshmi, T. Deepa, Krithiga S., S. Angalaeswari, N. Swetha and E. Kishore','Execution of various Types of Controllers to Fix the Ball Position of Magnetic Levitation System D.pdf','',1,'','','','',''),(2198,'77','Implementation of Stacked Autoencoder with RBM for Predicting and Monitoring Aquatic Biodiversity','V. Murugan, J. Jeba Emilyn and M. Prabu','Implementation of Stacked Autoencoder with RBM for Predicting and Monitoring Aquatic Biodiversity V.pdf','',1,'','','','',''),(2199,'77','Determinants of Licensing Deals in Pharmaceutical Industry','B. Thomas and P. Chugan','Determinants of Licensing Deals in Pharmaceutical Industry B.pdf','',1,'','','','',''),(2218,'77','Correlation of Compressibility Behaviour with Activity of Clay','B. Bose','Correlation of Compressibility Behaviour with Activity of Clay B.pdf','',1,'','','','',''),(2219,'77','Role of Information Sharing and Green Supply Chain management on Supply Chain Performance: Empirical Evidences','Urnaa Khaliunaa and K. Ramanathan Kalimuthu','Role of Information Sharing and Green Supply Chain management on Supply Chain Performance Empirical Evidences Urnaa Khaliunaa 2704.pdf','',1,'','','','',''),(2220,'77','An Econophysics Approach to Analyse the Correlations in the Stocks of S&P 500 Index of India\r\n\r\n ','Sushil Kumar, Sunil Kumar and Pawan Kumar','An Econophysics Approach to Analyse the Correlations in the Stocks of S&P 500 Index of India SUSHIL KUMAR 2886.pdf','',1,'','','','',''),(2221,'77','Proximity Tracing Method to reduce Community Spread of COVID 19','Sonia Duggal and Anupriya Jain','Proximity Tracing Method to reduce Community Spread of COVID 19 Anupriya Jain 2692.pdf','',1,'','','','',''),(2222,'77','Transient Stability Enhancement of Multi-Machine Hybrid Power System Employing Modified Series Resonance type Fault Current Limiter','Chintan R. Mehta and Santosh C. Vora','Transient Stability Enhancement of Multi-Machine Hybrid Power System Employing Modified Series Resonance type Fault Current Limiter CHINTAN R MEHTA 2287.pdf','',1,'','','','',''),(2223,'77','Identification of Diabetes with Recursive Partitioning Algorithm using Machine Learning','L. Lakshmi, M. Purushotham Reddy, A. Praveen and K.V.N. Suniha','Identification of Diabetes with Recursive Partitioning Algorithm using Machine Learning L.pdf','',1,'','','','',''),(2224,'77','Towards Creativity and Innovation by Integrating Employability Competences into Training Programs for Promoting Graduates Employability','Nahla El_Haggar and Fowzia H. Alshammary','Towards Creativity and Innovation by Integrating Employability Competences Into Training Programs for Promoting Graduates Employability Nahla El-Haggar 1847.pdf','',1,'','','','',''),(2225,'77','Lean Manufacturing Dimensions and Its Relationship in Promoting the Improvement of Production Processes in Industrial Companies','Sahar A. Mady, Samer M. Arqawi, Mazen J. Al Shobaki and Samy S. Abu-Naser','Lean Manufacturing Dimensions and Its Relationship in Promoting the Improvement of Production Processes in Industrial Companies 2085.pdf','',1,'','','','',''),(2226,'77','An Approach of Convolution Neural Network to Detect Cancer from Medical Radiology Images','Abhilash Shukla and Atul Patel','An Approach of Convolution Neural Network to Detect Cancer from Medical Radiology Images-Abhilash Shukla.pdf','',1,'','','','',''),(2227,'77','Recognition of Plant Species using Deep Convolutional Feature Extraction','Nguyen Van Hieu and Ngo Le Huy Hien','Recognition of Plant Species using Deep Convolutional Feature Extraction- Ngo Le Huy Hien.pdf','',1,'','','','',''),(2228,'77','Case Study on Business Excellence Issues of an Indian Automobile Manufacturer using SAP-LAP Framework','Sumit Kumar1 and Pardeep Gupta2','Case Study on Business Excellence Issues of an Indian Automobile Manufacturer using SAP-LAP Framework-Sumit Kumar.pdf','',1,'','','','',''),(2229,'77','A March towards Smart Livable City: Understanding Spatial Disparity of Smart Public Infrastructure across Thane Municipal Corporation','P. Banerjee and S. Sattar','A March towards Smart Livable City Understanding Spatial Disparity of Smart Public Infrastructure across Thane Municipal Corporation-P.pdf','',1,'','','','',''),(2230,'77','Non- Negative Matrix Factorization based Blind Source Separation and Source Enhancement using Generalised Cross Correlation','R. Pradeep, R. Kanimozhi, C. Prajitha and S. Rinesh','Non-Negative Matrix Factorization based Blind Source Separation and Source Enhancement using Generalised Cross Correlation-R.pdf','',1,'','','','',''),(2231,'77','Temperature Field in Mass Concrete at Early-Age: Experimental Research and Numerical Simulation','Nguyen-Trong Ho, Trong-Chuc Nguyen, Anh-Kiet Bui and Trong-Phuoc Huynh','Temperature Field in Mass Concrete at Early-Age Experimental Research and Numerical Simulation Nguyen-Trong Ho 2625.pdf','',1,'','','','',''),(2232,'77','Critical Success Variables Influencing Implementation of Total Productive Maintenance','Tekalign Lemma Woldesilassie and Venkata Mallikhajuna Kishan Ivatury','Critical Success Variables Influencing Implementation of Total Productive Maintenance Tekalign 2586.pdf','',1,'','','','',''),(2233,'77','Factors Influencing Adoption Intention of AI Powered Chatbot for Public Transport Services within a Smart City','Sachin Kuberkar and Tarun Kumar Singhal','Factors Influencing Adoption Intention of AI Powered Chatbot for Public Transport Services within a Smart City Tarun Kumar Singhal 947.pdf','',1,'','','','',''),(2234,'77','Design of Successive Approximation (SA) based Low Complexity Multiplier-less Coefficient Decimation Filter Bank for SDR Receivers','K. Baboji and Sriadibhatla Sridevi','Design of Successive Approximation _SA_ based Low Complexity Multiplier-less Coefficient Decimation Filter Bank for SDR Receivers K.pdf','',1,'','','','',''),(2235,'77','Effect of (Vertical & Horizontal) Geometric Irregularities on the Seismic Response of RC Structures','Zabihullah, Priyanka Singh and Mohammad Zamir Aryan','Effect of _Vertical & Horizontal_ Geometric Irregularities on the Seismic Response of RC Structures Zabihullah 2494.pdf','',1,'','','','',''),(2236,'77','Restoration of Compressed Image using Hard Thresholding Method','M.S. Sujithra and N. Sugitha','Restoration of Compressed Image using Hard Thresholding Method M.S.pdf','',1,'','','','',''),(2237,'80','Late Marriage Consequences and Concerns among Womenâ€™s of Kashmir Valley','Rayeesa Akhter and Mohamad Rafiq Bhat','IJAMH RT RAYEESA AKHTER Late Marriage Consequences and Concerns among Womens of Kashmir Valley a1.pdf','',1,'','','','',''),(2238,'80','Poverty Reduction Schemes in Shopian: A Case Study','Shakeel Manzoor and Sarla Nirankari ','IJAMH RT Shakkeel a2.pdf','',1,'','','','',''),(2239,'80','Pain and Agony in the Garden of Solitude: An Analysis ','Mudasir Ahmad Bufanda ','IJAMH RT BUFANDAA Pain and Agony in the Garden of Solitude An Analysis a3.pdf','',1,'','','','',''),(2240,'77','Occurrence of Aflatoxin B1 and Zearalenone in Corn based Food Products','Chandrika Prabakar and Sarathchandra Ghadevaru','Occurrence of Aflatoxin B1 and Zearalenone in Corn based Food Products Chandrika Prabakar 2596.pdf','',1,'','','','',''),(2241,'77','Speed-bump Detection using Otsu\'s Algorithm and Morphological Operation','C. Nelson Kennedy Babu , W. Deva Priya , T. Srihari and R. Nandakumar ','Speedbump Detection using Otsus Algorithm and Morphological OperationT Srihari.pdf','',1,'','','','',''),(2242,'77','Prioritizing Business Architecture Entities with Best-Worst Method','Mochammad Zuliansyah, Sabrina Ahmad and Abdul Karim Mohamad','Prioritizing Business Architecture Entities with Best-Worst Method Mochammad Zuliansyah 2816.pdf','',1,'','','','',''),(2243,'77','Multimodal Biometrics System Design using Score Level Fusion Approach','Suvarna Joshi and Abhay Kumar','Multimodal Biometrics System Design using Score Level Fusion Approach S.C.pdf','',1,'','','','',''),(2244,'77','A Comparative Survey on Wireless Sensor Networks based Internet of Things (IoT)','Akansha Sarad, Apurv Verma and Abhishek Badholia','A Comparative Survey on Wireless Sensor Networks based Internet of Things _IoT_ Akansha Sarad-Edited 2569.pdf','',1,'','','','',''),(2245,'77','Importance of Workforce Diversity in Self-Owned Firms','Abhishek Mavi','Importance of Workforce Diversity in Self-Owned Firms ABHISHEK MAVI 2712.pdf','',1,'','','','',''),(2246,'77','Role of Online Training Content in Enhancing Job Motivation','Nur Izzaty Mohamad, Azman Ismail, Nursaadatun Nisak Ahmad, Nurul Muna Mohamad and Nur Shahira Ibrahim','Role of Online Training Content in Enhancing Job Motivation Nur Izzaty Mohamad 2711.pdf','',1,'','','','',''),(2247,'77',' Dyadic Human Interaction Recognition from Videos using Multi-layer 3D CNN','Subetha T., Chitrakala S. and Uday Theja M.','Dyadic Human Interaction Recognition from Videos using Multi-layer 3D CNN Subetha T 2621.pdf','',1,'','','','',''),(2248,'77','The Impact of Rapid Serial Visual Presentation (RSVP) on Awareness of Reading Strategies','Mehrak Rahimi and Seyyed Abolfazl Babaei','The Impact of Rapid Serial Visual Presentation _RSVP_ on Awareness of Reading Strategies M.pdf','',1,'','','','',''),(2249,'77','Agile Project Management for Knowledge-Based Projects in IT Sector','Bandana Chhetri','Agile Project Management for Knowledge-Based Projects in IT Sector Bandana Chhetri 2826.pdf','',1,'','','','',''),(2250,'77','Barcode for Retail Store Operations- The Perfect Tool at Low Cost','Rajeev Gupta and Prachi Rastog','Barcode for Retail Store Operations- The Perfect Tool at Low Cost Rajeev Gupta 2587.pdf','',1,'','','','',''),(2251,'77','Review on Impact of Quality of Work-Life Balance of Women Employees in an Organization','K.A. Harish and B. Jeya Prabha','Review on Impact of Quality of Work-Life Balance of Women Employees in an Organization K.A.pdf','',1,'','','','',''),(2252,'77','Engineering Properties of Unburnt Bricks Produced from Sugarcane Bagasse and Thermal Power Plant Ashes','Si-Huy Ngo, Thi-Hong Mai, and Xuan-Viet Le','Engineering Properties of Unburnt Bricks Produced from Sugarcane Bagasse and Thermal Power Plant Ashes Si-Huy Ngo 2913.pdf','',1,'','','','',''),(2253,'77','Cultural Continuity through Analysing Architecture of Hindu Temples in India','Aditya Kumar Singh, Vinay Mohan Das and Yogesk Kumar Garg','Cultural Continuity through Analysing Architecture of Hindu Temples in India Aditya Kumar Singh.pdf','',1,'','','','',''),(2254,'77','Diabetic Retinopathy Detection and Classification using Pre-trained Convolutional Neural Networks','Sanskruti Patel','Diabetic Retinopathy Detection and Classification using Pre-trained Convolutional Neural Networks Sanskruti Patel.pdf','',1,'','','','',''),(2255,'77','Systematic Assessment on Extreme Heat Events and its Impact on Health','Amit Awasthi, Mamta Bansal, Prabhjot Kaur and Nirankar Singh\r\n\r\n ','Systematic Assessment on Extreme Heat Events and its Impact on Health Amit Awasthi 2941.pdf','',1,'','','','',''),(2256,'77','Plant Leaf Disease Detection and Classification using Conventional Machine Learning and Deep Learning','Hardikkumar S. Jayswal and Jitendra P. Chaudhari','Plant Leaf Disease Detection and Classification using Conventional Machine Learning and Deep Learning Hardikkumar S.pdf','',1,'','','','',''),(2257,'77','Load Analysis and Bending Solutions of Rectangular Thick Plate','Onyeka, F.C. and Ibearugbulem, O.M.','Load Analysis and Bending Solutions of Rectangular Thick Plate Onyeka, F.pdf','',1,'','','','',''),(2258,'77','Compact Cities as Sustainable Development Model','Vineet Shrivastava and Jagdish Singh\r\n\r\n ','Compact Cities as Sustainable Development Model Vineet Shrivastava 2801.pdf','',1,'','','','',''),(2259,'77','Study on Developments in the Aluminum Metal Matrix Composites using Different Reinforcement Particles','Ratna Deepika Manikonda, M.B.S. Sreekara Reddy and Arul Raj K.','Study on Developments in the Aluminum Metal Matrix Composites using Different Reinforcement Particles Ratna Deepika Manikonda 2825.pdf','',1,'','','','',''),(2260,'77','Phase Coded Waveforms for Pulse Compression Radar Systems','T.D. Bhatt and M. Anusha','Phase Coded Waveforms for Pulse Compression Radar Systems T. D.pdf','',1,'','','','',''),(2261,'77','A Travel Time Prediction by Applying Ensemble Machine Learning Techniques','Mrinmoyee Chattoraj and V. Udaya Rani','A Travel Time Prediction by Applying Ensemble Machine Learning Techniques Mrinmoyee Chattoraj 2736.pdf','',1,'','','','',''),(2262,'77','Managing Work-life Predicaments: A Study on the Selected Female Employees at Gulf University in Bahrain','Janaki Bojiah and Natalija Gulei','Managing Work-life Predicaments A Study on the Selected Female Employees at Gulf University in Bahrain Janaki Bojiah 2573.pdf','',1,'','','','',''),(2263,'75','Ground Water Prospect Zone Mapping in the Barkheda Nathu Basin of Kolans River using Remote Sensing and Geographical Information System','Hridayesh Varma, Jyoti Sarup and S.K. Mittal','Ground Water Prospect Zone Mapping in the Barkheda Nathu Basin of Kolans River using Remote Sensing and Geographical Information System -Hridayesh Varma 1523.pdf','',1,'','','','',''),(2264,'75','Characteristics of Double-porous Layered Slider Bearing with Parabolic Pad Stator using Ferrofluid Lubricant','Darshana A. Patel and Ramesh C. Kataria','Characteristics of Double-porous Layered Slider Bearing with Parabolic Pad Stator using Ferrofluid Lubricant MATH-Darshana A Patel 2460.pdf','',1,'','','','',''),(2265,'75','An Efficient Feature Selection Method for Offline Signature Biometrics','Mamta Garg, Ajatshatru Arora and Savita Gupta','An Efficient Feature Selection Method for Offline Signature Biometrics Mamta Garg 2951.pdf','',1,'','','','',''),(2266,'75','Proactive Fast Connection Recovery Scheme for a Failure in Elastic Optical Networks','Dinesh Kumar, Rajiv Kumar and Neeru Sharma\r\n\r\n ','Proactive Fast Connection Recovery Scheme for a Failure in Elastic Optical Networks DINESH KUMAR29521.pdf','',1,'','','','',''),(2267,'75','Performance Improvement of Air Traffic Flow Management Ground Delay Program using Machine- learning and Mixed Integer Linear Programming based Algorithm','Deepudev S, Palanisamy P, Varun P. Gopi, Manjunath K. Nelli and Asokkumar K.','Performance Improvement of Air Traffic Flow Management Ground Delay Program using Machine- learning and Mixed Integer Linear Programming based Algorithm Deepudev S 2934.pdf','',1,'','','','',''),(2268,'75','A Multiclass Plant Leaf Disease Detection using Image Processing and Machine Learning Techniques','Nilay Ganatra and Atul Patel','A Multiclass Plant Leaf Disease Detection using Image Processing and Machine Learning Techniques Nilay Ganatra 2954.pdf','',1,'','','','',''),(2269,'75','Mobility Error Prediction based LAB Scheduling Algorithm for Optimizing System Throughput in Wireless Sensor Networks','Md. Khaja Mohiddin and V. B. S. Srilatha Indira Dutt','Mobility Error Prediction based LAB Scheduling Algorithm for Optimizing System Throughput in Wireless Sensor Networks Md.pdf','',1,'','','','',''),(2270,'75','MHD Oscillatory Flow of Non Newtonian Fluid through Porous Medium in the Presence of Radiation and Chemical Diffusion with Hall Effects','R. Sakthikala and V. Lavanya','MHD Oscillatory Flow of Non Newtonian Fluid through Porous Medium in the Presence of Radiation and Chemical Diffusion with Hall Effects R.pdf','',1,'','','','',''),(2271,'75','Effect of Image Compression with Frame Size and DCT compression using Local Binary Pattern','Padmaja V.K. and Jeevan K.M.\r\n ','Effect of Image Compression with Frame Size and DCT compression using Local Binary Pattern PADMAJA 2592.pdf','',1,'','','','',''),(2272,'75','Design and Development of IOT Based Smart Library Using Line Follower Robot','Tushit Gupta, Rohit Tripathi, Manoj K. Shukla and Shailendra Mishra','Design and Development of IOT Based Smart Library using Line Follower Robot Rohit Tripathi 2798.pdf','',1,'','','','',''),(2273,'81','Economic Re-Engineering: Covid-19 ','Gurinder Singh , Ruchika Gupta and Nidhi Agarwal ','Economic Re Engineering Covid 19 Ruchika Gupta1.pdf','',1,'','','','',''),(2274,'81','Impact of Tool Shape and Rotatory Speed on Tensile Strength and Microstructure of AA6105 Friction Stir Welded Joints through Taguchi Method ','Jai Singh and Bikramjit Singh','Impact of Tool Shape and Rotatory Speed on Tensile Strength and Microstructure of AA6105 Friction Stir Welded Joints through Taguchi Method Jai Singh2.pdf','',1,'','','','',''),(2275,'81','Identification of High-Risk Road Traffic Crash Zones for Spatial Allocation and Distribution of Proximate Health-Care Facilities: An Application of GIS Tools ','Ubaid Illahi , Ruhhee Tabbussum , Burhan-ul-Wafa and Ishfaq Mohi ud din ','Identification of High Risk Road Traffic Crash Zones for Spatial Allocation and Distribution of Proximate Health Care Facilities An Application of GIS Tools UBAID ILLAHI 2786 3.pdf','',1,'','','','',''),(2276,'81','Security and Safety of Health Care Professionals during COVID-19 Pandemic in the Context of Epidemic Diseases (Amendment) Ordinance, 2020 ','M.Z.M. Nomani & Faisal Sherwani','Security and Safety of Health Care Professionals During COVID 19 Pandemic in the Context of Epidemic Diseases Amendment Ordinance 2020 Faisal Sherwani 2728 4.pdf','',1,'','','','',''),(2277,'81','Developing Digital Research Portal for Bukidnon State Universityâ€™s Scholarly \r\nWork ','Klevie Jun R. Caseres , Rayanne P. Cruz , Loyd Anthony T. Gonzales , Princess Gay Mary L. Tapayan and Sales G. Aribe, Jr.','Developing Digital Research Portal for Bukidnon State Universitys Scholarly Work Sales Aribe Jr 2757 5.pdf','',1,'','','','',''),(2278,'81','Online Service Quality of M-Commerce: Effect on user Satisfaction ','Azman Ismail , Mohd. Mursyid Arshad , Angela Anak Saros , Zalina Ibrahim and Sabariah Sharif','Online Service Quality of M Commerce Effect on user Satisfaction Azman Ismail 2390 6.pdf','',1,'','','','',''),(2279,'81','An ARDL Approach to the Dynamic Linkage between Equity Markets and Long-Term Bond Yield: Pre and Post Period of the Global Financial Crisis ','Amar Yadav , Devesh Kumar and Rozy Dhanta','An ARDL Approach to the Dynamic Linkage between Equity Markets and Long7.pdf','',1,'','','','',''),(2280,'77','Conceptual Model for Innovation Research','Katerina Kozludzhova ','Conceptual Model for Innovation Research 2755 Katerina Kozludzhova 1.pdf','',1,'','','','',''),(2281,'77','A Virtualized Mobile Agents Based IoT Model with Map-Reduce: Using the \r\nPythonâ€™s Spade Framework ','Benard O. Osero , Elisha Abade and Stephen Mburu','A Virtualized Mobile Agents Based IoT Model with Map Reduce Using the Pythons Spade Framework 2548 CSE Benard O 2.pdf','',1,'','','','',''),(2282,'77','In Silico based Whole Genome Phylogenetic Analysis of Novel Coronavirus \r\n(SARS-CoV-2) ','Raghunath Satpathy','In Silico based Whole Genome Phylogenetic Analysis of Novel Coronavirus SARS CoV 2 Raghunath Satpathy 2611 3.pdf','',1,'','','','',''),(2283,'77','Quality-Based Open Data Source Selection Using Ant Colony Optimization (ACO) Algorithm','Nor A.M. Sabri , Nurul A. Emran and Noraswaliza Abdullah','Quality Based Open Data Source Selection Using Ant Colony Optimization ACO Algorithm Nurul Emran 2841 4.pdf','',1,'','','','',''),(2284,'77','Spatial Clustering Algorithm with Dynamic Multi Hop Routing for Wireless Sensor Networks ','Panchikattil Susheelkumar Sreedharan and D.J. Pete ','Spatial Clustering Algorithm with Dynamic Multi Hop Routing for Wireless Sensor Networks Panchikattil Susheelkumar Sreedharan 5.pdf','',1,'','','','',''),(2285,'77','Effect of Particle Size on Compressive Strength of Concrete with Ground \r\nGranulated Blast Furnace Slag as Admixture Along with Microstructural Analysis','V. Nagendra , C. Sashidhar , S.M. Prasanna Kumar and N. Venkata Ramana','Effect of Particle Size on Compressive Strength of Concrete with Ground Granulated Blast Furnace Slag as Admixture Along with Microstructural Analysis V 6.pdf','',1,'','','','',''),(2286,'81','Predicting Rise and Spread of COVID-19 Epidemic using Time Series Forecasting\r\nModels in Machine Learning ','Ch. V. Raghavendran, G. Naga Satish , Vempati Krishna and Shaik Mahaboob Basha','Predicting Rise and Spread of COVID19 Epidemic using Time Series Forecasting Models in Machine Learning Ch V Raghavendran 2684n1.pdf','',1,'','','','',''),(2287,'81','Malmquist Index Based Productivity Analysis for Various Zones of Indian\r\nRailways','Sabyasachi S. Roy and Mukul Kulshrestha','Malmquist Index Based Productivity Analysis for Various Zones of Indian Railways Mukul Kulshrestha 2943n2.pdf','',1,'','','','',''),(2288,'81','A Review of Higher Education Service quality in Pursuit of Future Research\r\nAgenda','Mohd Imran Siddiquei, Syed Mohd Muneeb, Sunil Kumar and Prince Dubey','A Review of Higher Education Service quality in Pursuit of Future Research Agenda Mohd Imran Siddiquei 2775n3.pdf','',1,'','','','',''),(2289,'81','Evidence Phrase based Combined Relevance for Web Information Filtering','Mu. Annalakshmi and A. Padmapriya','Evidence Phrase based Combined Relevance for Web Information Filtering An4.pdf','',1,'','','','',''),(2290,'81','Modified Fuzzy DEMATEL Technique and its uses for Producing Supplier\r\nSelection Criteria','Vivek Gupta and Arvind Jayant','Modified Fuzzy DEMATEL Technique and its uses for Producing Supplier Selection Criteria Vivek Gupta 2835n5.pdf','',1,'','','','',''),(2291,'81','Admittance Modeling of the Power System with DFIG based WECS for IGE\r\nAnalysis ','Srikanth Velpula and R. Thirumalaivasan','Admittance Modeling of the Power System with DFIG based WECS for IGE Analysis Rn6.pdf','',1,'','','','',''),(2292,'81','Psychological Impacts of People with regard to Human Rights and Values during\r\nCOVID-19 Pandemic Situation ','R. Varalakshmi and S. Meeraa Devi','Psychological Impacts of People with regard to Human Rights and Values during Dr R14.pdf','',1,'','','','',''),(2293,'81','Contrastive Study and Review of Word Sense Disambiguation Techniques ','S.S. Patil, R.P. Bhavsar and B.V. Pawar','Contrastive Study and Review of Word Sense Disambiguation Techniques SSn8.pdf','',1,'','','','',''),(2294,'81','Fusion of Images using BCV and DWT ','Shaik Shaheala Banu , Ch. Hima Bindu , M. Kranthi and K. Jamal','Fusion of Images using BCV and DWT Dr Ch1.pdf','',1,'','','','',''),(2295,'81','Impact of COVID 19 on Stock Market performance using Efficient and Predictive LBL-LSTM based Mathematical Model ','Uma Prashant Gurav and S. Kotrappa','Impact of COVID 19 on Stock Market performance using Efficient and Predictive LBLLSTM based Mathematical Model Uma Prashant Gurav 291717.pdf','',1,'','','','',''),(2296,'81','Improving the Accuracy of Handwritten Digits Recognition through Parameter\r\nTuning of XGBoost Algorithm ','C. Beulah Christalin Latha , Sujni Paul and S. Carolin Jeeva','Improving the Accuracy of Handwritten Digits Recognition through Parameter Tuning of XGBoost Algorithm Cj3.pdf','',1,'','','','',''),(2297,'81','Near Field UHF RFID Antenna using Dual-Log Periodic Array','Bammidi Deepa and K. Chandra Bhushana Rao','Near Field UHF RFID Antenna using DualLog Periodic Array Bammidi Deepa 2642j4.pdf','',1,'','','','',''),(2298,'81','Area Optimized TI2C Design for CSI\'s Camera Control Interface Protocol','Utsav Kumar Malviya and Ayaskanta Swain','Area Optimized TI2C Design for CSI s Camera Control Interface Protocol Utsav Kumar Malviya 2698j5.pdf','',1,'','','','',''),(2299,'81','Causes and Impacts of Urban Floods in Indian Cities: A Review','Hari Ilam Vazhuthi N. and Ashwani Kumar ','Causes and Impacts of Urban Floods in Indian Cities A Review Drj6.pdf','',1,'','','','',''),(2300,'77','Image Compression using Clustering Techniques for Bio Medical Applications ','G. Vimala Kumari, M. Sunil Prakash , P. Surya Prasad , B. Srinivas and B. Lavanya','Image Compression using Clustering Techniques for Bio Medical Applications Drj1.pdf','',1,'','','','',''),(2301,'81','How the Work Environment Affects Employee Competence and its impact on\r\nEmployee Performance? Survey of the Ministry of Religion of Sukabumi Regency,\r\nWest Java Province, Indonesia ','Tetty Sufianty Zafar , Abin Suarsa , Silvy Sondari Gadzali , Deni Hadiansah and Yayu Nurhayati Rahayu','How the Work Environment Affects Employee Competence and its impact on Employee Performance Survey of the Ministry of Religion of Sukabumi Regency29271.pdf','',1,'','','','',''),(2302,'81','The Road Map and Role of Internet of Things (IoT) in COVID-19 Pandemic\r\nScenario ','R. K. Chaurasia , Ranjan Mishra and Raj Gaurav Mishra','The Road Map and Role of Internet of ThingsIoT in COVID19 Pandemic Scenario R K2.pdf','',1,'','','','',''),(2303,'81','Ground Water Quality Index of Saharanpur city, India and its Spatial Representation using Geographical Information Systems ','Yeshi Choden , Gagan Kumar Badewa , Tshering Cheki and Karma Yangzom','Ground Water Quality Index of Saharanpur cityIndia and its Spatial Representation4.pdf','',1,'','','','',''),(2304,'81','Theoretical Process of Entrepreneurial Family: Developing the Conceptual\r\nFramework by using Strategic Entrepreneurship Approach for the Describing\r\nBusiness Sustainability ','Mahwish Jamil , Amber Waqar and Ahmad Firdause Md Fadzil','Theoretical Process of Entrepreneurial Family Developing the Conceptual Framework5.pdf','',1,'','','','',''),(2305,'81','Development of Multi-Hop Clustering Approach for Vehicular Ad-hoc Network','Ankit Temurnikar , Pushpneel Verma and Jaytrilok Choudhary','Development of MultiHop Clustering Approach for Vehicular Adhoc Network Ankit Temurnikar 25636.pdf','',1,'','','','',''),(2306,'81','Path-Based Recovery Scheme for a Failure in Elastic Optical Networks','Dinesh Kumar , Rajiv Kumar and Neeru Sharma','PathBased Recovery Scheme for a Failure in Elastic Optical Networks Dinesh Kumar 29677.pdf','',1,'','','','',''),(2307,'81','Experimental and Numerical Analysis of Rotating Radiator for Dry Cooling\r\nSystem','C. Uma Maheswari*, R. Meenakshi Reddy and K. Hemachandra Reddy','Experimental and Numerical Analysis of Rotating Radiator for Dry Cooling System C8.pdf','',1,'','','','',''),(2308,'81','Automated Decision Support System for Breast Cancer Prediction','Madhu Kumari , Vijendra Singh and Prachi Ahlawat','Automated Decision Support System for Breast Cancer Prediction Madhu Kumari 27999.pdf','',1,'','','','',''),(2309,'81','Overproduction as a Key Trend in the World Sugar Economy ','Elena A. Chernysheva','Overproduction as a Key Trend in the World Sugar Economy Elena A30.pdf','',1,'','','','',''),(2310,'81','Adaptive Modulation and Coding Scheme for Physical Layer of Wireless Regional\r\nArea Network','Rahul Koshti and Manisha Singh','Adaptive Modulation and Coding Scheme for Physical Layer of Wireless Regional Area Network R31.pdf','',1,'','','','',''),(2311,'81','Security and Data Challenges in Cloud Environment ','Deepika , Rajneesh Kumar and Dalip','Security and Data Challenges in Cloud Environment Deepika 253832.pdf','',1,'','','','',''),(2312,'81','Benchmaking in logistics: Literature Review','Mohamed Achraf Laissaoui , Ouail El Imrani and Aziz Babounia','Benchmaking in logistics Literature Review2766Mohamed Achraf Laissaoui33.pdf','',1,'','','','',''),(2313,'81','Multi-agent Distributed Data Mining: Challenges and Research Directions ','V. Devasekhar and P. Natarajan','Multiagent Distributed Data Mining Challenges and Research Directions V34.pdf','',1,'','','','',''),(2314,'81','New Digital Technologies Applied to Architectural Design using Big Data\r\nAnalysis ','Annarita Zarrillo , Paolo Ferla , Olga Popovic-Larsen , Caio Castriotto , Xan Browne and Vincenzo Minutolo','New Digital Technologies Applied to Architectural Design using Big Data Analysis Annarita Zarrillo 286035.pdf','',1,'','','','',''),(2315,'81','Drag Reduction by Biopolymers in Gravity Driven Flow ','Ch. Vara Prasad , Ch. V. Subbarao and P. King','Drag Reduction by Biopolymers in Gravity Driven Flow Ch V36.pdf','',1,'','','','',''),(2316,'81','A Corner Point Quadrature Method for 4 Node Quadrilateral Element for the\r\nEvaluation of Element Stiffness Matrix','Shyjo Johnson , T. Jeyapoovan and D. Nagarajan','A Corner Point Quadrature Method for 4 Node Quadrilateral Element for the Evaluation of Element Stiffness Matrix Shyjo Johnson 261637.pdf','',1,'','','','',''),(2354,'76','Study of Thermal Stresses in a Thin Annular Disc within the Context\r\nof Fractional Order Theory of Thermoelasticity ','Yogesh M. Panke ','Study of Thermal Stresses in a Thin Annular Disc Within the Context of Fractional Order Theory of Thermoelasticity 1238Yogesh M2.pdf','',1,'','','','',''),(2355,'76','Analysis of Small-deflection in a Thermoelastic plate ','Shivcharan Thakare , Yogesh Panke and H. S. Roy','Analysis of Smalldeflection in a Thermoelastic plate SHIVCHARAN THAKRE 12243.pdf','',1,'','','','',''),(2356,'76','Influence of Light on the Germination of Seeds and Growth of\r\nPlantlets: An Experimental Study ','Reema Srivastava','Influence of Light on the Germination of Seeds and Growth of Plantlets An Experimental Study Dr4.pdf','',1,'','','','',''),(2357,'76','Biochemical Studies to Assess the Relationship of Interleukin-18 with Chronic Hepatitis C Virus Infection ','A.M. El-Adly*, A.A. Shalaby , M. H. Hussein , N.F. Abo Dahab and U.M. Abdul-Raouf ','Biochemical Studies to Assess the Relationship of Interleukin18 with Chronic Hepatitis C Virus Infection AM5.pdf','',1,'','','','',''),(2360,'74','Diversity and Abundance of Beneficial Insects in Forest Ecosystem of Madhya Pradesh','Pawan Kumar and Shalini Bhowate','Diversity and Abundance of Beneficial Insects in Forest Ecosystem of Madhya Pradesh 615PAWAN KUMAR7.pdf','',1,'Natural ecosystem services such as soil formation, nutrient cycling, pollination of plants and biological control of pests are provided by beneficial insects. But in present scenario due to heavy and indiscriminate use of chemicals decrease the diversity of these insects. Hence conservation point of view study was conducted to survey the diversity of beneficial insects in different agro climatic zones of Madhya Pradesh in the year 2017- 2020. Ten different species of beneficial insects were surveyed from the area. Diversity indices were calculated by using Shannon- Weiner index; Margalefâ€™s index and Evenness index. The result shows that the diversity of beneficial insects in forest ecosystem in Madhya Pradesh is rich and diverse.','Ecosystem, Diversity, Pollination, Beneficial insects, Madhya Pradesh.','During the present study 1907 individuals of ten beneficial insects were collected from forest ecosystem of 11 agro climatic zones of Madhya Pradesh. As far as percent composition of each beneficial insect is concerned honeybee, Apis dorsata was the most dominant (35.3%) followed by red ants Oecophylla smaragdina (12.7%), Apanteles machaeralis (10.5%), Canthecona furcellata (8.44%), Antheraea paphia ((6.92), Trichogramma raoi (6.86) , Crocothemis servilia (5.76%), Kerria lacca (5.45%), Coccinella septampunctata (4.40 %) and in Xanthopimpla cera (3.51%) (Fig. 2).The variety and diversity of species in the study sites can be found by calculating Species diversity index, richness and evenness. Analysis of beneficial insect species diversity revealed that the maximum diversity, richness and evenness index was found in the year 2017 (2.08), (1.20) and (0.90) re','-','Kumar, P. and Bhowate, S. (2020). Diversity and Abundance of Beneficial Insects in Forest Ecosystem of Madhya Pradesh. Biological Forum â€“ An International Journal, 12(1): 40-45.'),(2361,'74','Dinurus gedrosiae sp.n. (Trematoda: Hemiuridae) in Common Dolphinfish Coryphyna hippurus (Perciformes: Coryphaenidae) of Gwadar coast, Balochistan, Pakistan','Fida Ahmed, Nadir Ali Birmani and Saima Naz','Dinurus gedrosiae spnTrematoda Hemiuridae in Common Dolphinfish Coryphyna hippurus8.pdf','',1,'During the current study on metazoan parasites of Common dolphinfish Coryphaena hippurus (Perciformes: Coryphaenidae), a total of twenty four hosts were collected from the Gwadar coast of Balochistan, Pakistan. All of the twenty five hosts examined were infected with Dinurus gedrosiae sp.n. The present species differ from its congeners by having Pseudosegmentation in posterior half of hind body; oral sucker subterminal; pharynx almost round; esophagus elongated; ventral sucker larger; testes rounded in shape, pre-ovarian, oblique in position, separated from each other; cirrus sac large in size; ovary rounded, pre-equatorial, submedian, post-testicular, overlapped by uterine loops and vitellaria; uterus densely filled with eggs, starts behind the acetabulum reaching up to starting of fourth quarter of hind body; caeca diverticulate at level of ovary, reaching up to posterior half of hind body, encroaching into segmented region of body; excretory tube present; excretory pore terminal; eg',' Trematode, Dinurus gedrosiae sp.n., Common dolphinfish Coryphaena hippurus, Gwadar, Balochistan, Pakistan.','Type Host: Common dolphinfish Coryphaena hippurus marine edible fish. \r\nType locality: Gwadar coast (25Â° 7â€² 35â€³ N, 62Â° 19â€² 21â€³ E) Balochistan Province, Pakistan.\r\nNumber of hosts examined: 24\r\nNumber of specimens recovered: 2061\r\nSite of infection: Stomach/Intestine \r\nType specimens: Deposited in the department of Zoology, University of Sindh, Jamshoro, Pakistan.\r\nEtymology: Specific name â€œGedrosiaâ€ refers to an ancient Greek name of the area (Newly Makran Division, Balochistan).\r\nThe genus Dinurus was proposed by Looss in 1907 to accommodate trematodes collected from marine fishes. D. breviductus differs from present specimens in having long body with single pseudosegment at middle, anterior segment broader, tubular; oral sucker terminal, larger in size; ventral sucker smaller; shorter distance between oral and ventral suckers; anterior testis close to ventral sucker, elongated, smaller and broader than present species; posterior testis sharing edge with anterior testis','-','Ahmed, F., Birmani, N. A. and Naz, S. (2020). Dinurus gedrosiae sp.n. (Trematoda: Hemiuridae) in Common Dolphinfish Coryphyna hippurus (Perciformes: Coryphaenidae) of Gwadar coast, Balochistan, Pakistan. Biological Forum â€“ An International Journal, 12('),(2362,'78','Effect of alkaline protease produced from fish waste as substrate by Bacillus clausii on destaining of blood stained fabric','P. Saravana Kumari , R. Reshma','Effect of alkaline protease produced from fish8.pdf','',1,'','','','',''),(2363,'78','Can host plant shape fungal symbionts of the leafhopper Orosius albicinctus','Chamran Hemmati* , Mehrnoosh Nikooei','Can host plant shape fungal symbionts9.pdf','',1,'','','','',''),(2364,'78','Asian Pied Starling: A new addition to Avian diversity of Todgarh Raoli Wildlife Sanctuary, Rajasthan, India','C. S. Purohit , Mohan Singh , Partap Singh , Abhinav Bharti','Asian Pied Starling A new addition to Avian10.pdf','',1,'','','','',''),(2365,'78','Mosses from the Greater Sipit Subwatershed, Mt. Makiling Forest Reserve, the Philippines','Ailene A. Alcala* , Manuel L. Castillo , Pastor L. Malabrigo Jr. , Eugene L. R. Logatoc , Bonifacio O. Pasion, Ramil S. Alcala','Mosses from the Greater Sipit Subwatershed11.pdf','',1,'','','','',''),(2366,'82','Short-term Impact of Weather Parameters on COVID-19 Cases in 25 States and Union Territories of India','Alok Sagar Gautam, Abhishek Joshi, Sanjeev Kumar and Karan Singh','Shortterm Impact of Weather Parameters on COVID191.pdf','',1,'','','','',''),(2367,'82','Advanced A* Algorithm with Dispersion Index for Dynamic Ambulance Routing Problem using Parallel Strategies','S. Nagamani and K.R. Anil Kumar','Advanced A Algorithm with Dispersion Index for Dynamic2.pdf','',1,'','','','',''),(2368,'82','Designing and Implementation of Arduino based Laboratory PMU ','Apoorv Sharma , Ayush Dhanda , Ankur Jangra , Anmol Tiwari , Sangeeta Kamboj and Amrita Sinha','Designing and Implementation of Arduino based3.pdf','',1,'','','','',''),(2369,'84','Diversity of Herbs in Kibber Wildlife Sanctuary of Distt. Lahaul and Spiti, Himachal Pradesh','Ranjeet Kumar, Raj Kumar Verma, Suraj Kumar, Chaman Thakur, Rajender Prakash, Krishna Kumari, Dushyant and Saurabh Yadav','Diversity of Herbs in Kibber Wildlife Sanctuary of Distt Lahaul and Spiti1.pdf','',1,'The cold desert in Himalayas are home of unique and threatened plants. The landscapes of cold deserts are rich in biodiversity due to unique topography, climatic conditions and variation in plant diversity in different habitats. The plant diversity provides information on plant wealth of particular area. The present investigation was conducted to know the phytodiversity of herbs in Kibber Beat of Kibber Wildlife Sanctuary (KWLS) during 2017-2019. The study included dominance of vegetation, diversity indices and documentation of threatened plants. Total 12 communities, 22 family, 50 genera and 71 species were recorded during the study in Kibber Beat of the Sanctuary. Total 4 numbers of threatened plants were recorded viz., Arnebia euchroma, Berginia stracheyi, Physochlaena praealta and Rhodiola heterodonta. Total density/m2 of herbs varied from 7.35 to 54.85. Maximum value of diversity index (H) in communities was 2.84 and minimum was 1.81. Ex-situ conservation of plants is required ','Cold desert, Kibber, herbs, community and phytosociology.','The population dynamic of species should be regularly monitored for those species which have less density in Kibber Wildlife Sanctuary. The conservation and mangement strategies should be prepared especially for threatened species and plants of socio-economic importance.','-','Kumar, R., Verma, R. K. Kumar, S., Thakur, C., Prakash, R., Kumari, K., Dushyant and Yadav, S. (2020). Diversity of herbs in Kibber Wildlife Sanctuary of Distt. Lahaul and Spiti, Himachal Pradesh. Biological Forum â€“ An International Journal, 12(2): 01-1'),(2370,'85','Diversity of Shrubs in Kibber Beat in Kibber Wildlife Sanctuary of Lahaul & Spiti District, Himachal Pradesh','Ranjeet Kumar, Raj Kumar Verma, Chaman Thakur, Rajender Prakash and Suraj Kumar','Diversity of Shrubs in Kibber Beat in Kibber Wildlife Sanctuary of Lahaul & Spiti District1.pdf','',1,'','','','',''),(2371,'82','Interactive Content Development for Kidâ€™s Healthy Food Mobile Application ','S.S. Rahim , F.D. Mohd Sazali , S. Parumo , N.N. Aâ€™bas , A. N. Che Pee , H.A. Sulaiman , M.H.L. Abdullah and M. H. Zakaria','Interactive Content Development for Kids Healthy Food Mobile Application SS4.pdf','',1,'','','','',''),(2372,'82','The Qualities and Competencies of School Educators in the Era of Industrial Revolution 4.0 ','Tu Duc Bui , Anh-Chuong Huynh-Lam and Nga Thuy Thuy Nguyen','The Qualities and Competencies of School Educators in the Era of Industrial Revolution 45.pdf','',1,'','','','',''),(2373,'82','A Study on Cybersecurity Awareness Among Students in Yobe State University, Nigeria: A Quantitative Approach ','Adamu A. Garba , Maheyzah Md. Siraj , Siti Hajar Othman and M.A. Musa','A Study on Cybersecurity Awareness Among Students In Yobe State University Nigeria A Quantitative Approach Adamu A6.pdf','',1,'','','','',''),(2374,'78','Phenolics and Flavonoid Contents of Freeze-dried Vaccinium myrtoides (Blume) Miq. Contribute to Decreased Reactive Oxygen Species (ROS)','Eleanor C. Villaverde,* , Maria Amelita C. Estacio , Marivic S. Lacsamana , Rohani B. Cena-Navarro , Lourdes B. Cardenas','Phenolics and Flavonoid Contents of Freeze dried Vaccinium myrtoides12.pdf','',1,'','','','',''),(2375,'75','A Review of Memetic Algorithm and its Application in Traveling Salesman \r\nProblem ','Rajiv Kumar and Minakshi Memoria ','A Review of Memetic Algorithm and its Application in Traveling Salesman Problem 3158 Rajiv Kumar a1.pdf','',1,'','','','',''),(2376,'75','Analysis of Available Selection Techniques and Recommendation for Memetic Algorithm and its Application to TSP ','Rajiv Kumar and Minakshi Memoria ','Analysis of Available Selection Techniques and Recommendation for Memetic Algorithm and its Application to TSP 3160 Rajiv Kumar a2.pdf','',1,'','','','',''),(2377,'84','Leaching Losses of Micronutrient: A review ','Pratibha Thakur and Pardeep Kumar ','Leaching Losses of Micronutrient A review 627 Pardeep Kumar a1.pdf','',1,'It is a well-established fact that for sustainable crop production, micronutrients are equally important as macronutrients. There are emerging though scattered evidences of crop productivity limitations by micronutrients as the addition of such nutrients is also limited. With the increasing agricultural intensification using high yielding cultivars, synthetic fertilizers; the exploitation rate of micronutrients has overtaken the rate of their replenishment. Leaching losses of such nutrients is a major constraint beside other factors. So, it is important to assess and quantify the leaching losses of such nutrients for sustainable crop production besides planning management strategies. The reduced availability of organic manures and more reliance on synthetic fertilizers is causing increased deficiencies of micronutrients because these fertilizers are highly nutrient specific. The over dependence on synthetic fertilizers has brought many ill effects including soil and environmental pollu','Leaching, macronutrients, micronutrients, management strategies.','The movement of nutrients with percolating water beyond the root zone in soil profile is nutrient leaching and requires a positive water balance. Therefore, humid regions exhibit higher leaching losses. Owing to leaching, the nutrients however, are temporarily lost from the system but by growing deep rooted crops these can be recycled. Agricultural intensification is significantly contributing to leaching deteriorating the soil, water and overall environmental quality. The leaching losses are governed by rate and time of fertilizer application, mobility and concentration in soil. The major nutrients (NPK) have been extensively studied in relation to leaching losses owing to their requirement in crop production and simultaneous contribution in environmental degradation. Nitrate and sulphur are more prone to leaching and phosphorus is immobile however, gets leached with runoff. Calcium and magnesium are leached more rapidly than potassium. Among micronutrients, very scattered information','-','Thakur, P. and Kumar, P. (2020). Leaching Losses of Micronutrient: A review. Biological Forum â€“ An International Journal, 12(2): 13-21.'),(2378,'84','Invasive Herbaceous Floral Elements in Shimla, Himachal Pradesh (India): An Analysis ','Astha Chauhan and Vaneet Jishtu','Invasive Herbaceous Floral Elements in Shimla Himachal Pradesh India An Analysis 626 Astha Chauhan a2.pdf','',1,'Presence of invasive alien flora is deemed to be a menace to the native and endemic flora of any region. The impact is more prominent in tourist places like Shimla that lies in the Himalayan range which itself is a biodiversity hotspot. The ecosystem being rickety here makes it even more susceptible to habitat deterioration. An important step for effective and proper management of Invasive flora is the preparation of its baseline data. By means of regular surveys this present abridged study has revealed a total of 99 herbaceous invasive plant species belonging to 27 families and 75 genera. Near about 54 % of these species are native to the American continents, followed by Europe (25%), Eurasian/Mediterranean region (18%), Africa (3%) and China with a mere 1%. Majority of the species belonged to the Asteraceae family. This study reveals the finite information on Invasive alien plants in the region that is currently available. However, there is a need to lay stress towards practical appl','Invasive, biodiversity hotspot, herbaceous, habitat deterioration, management. ','By abundant seed and biomass production the alien invasive species are thriving in new areas, thereby altering and threatening the native floral elements. Plant species tend to become invasive when they are ignored for a longer period of time. Documentation after thorough analysis of flora by understanding taxonomic diversity is of prime importance. Besides, monitoring of invasive species is also one of the main step in management by inventory building, phyto-sociological means and mapping. It warrants a strategic planning for early detection and reporting of invasive plants. Also, a sound link needs to be established between taxonomists, ecologists and forests departments, for its better and effective management. \r\nThe current study on the â€˜Invasive Herbaceous Floral Elements in Shimlaâ€™, will prove to be fruitful and would serve as handy reference for future research, as it inventories a list of herbaceous alien invasive flora of the city. It will also be helpful for the research','-','Chauhan, A. and Jishtu, V. (2020). Invasive Herbaceous Floral Elements in Shimla, Himachal Pradesh (India): An Analysis. Biological Forum â€“ An International Journal, 12(2): 22-29.'),(2380,'82','In Vitro Efficacy Testing of Fungicides on Botrytis cinerea causing\r\nGray Mold of Tomato','Mirakbar A. Zuparov , Albert A. Khakimov, Mukhiddin S. Mamiev and Abdurakhmon N. Allayarov ','In Vitro Efficacy Testing of Fungicides on Botrytis cinerea causing Albert Khakimov 2628 a1.pdf','',1,'','','','',''),(2381,'82','Gas Hydrate Opportunities and Instability Challenges with Consideration of Environmental Impacts','Sandhya Satahkopan and Annapurna Boruah ','Gas Hydrate Opportunities and Instability Challenges with Consideration of Environmental Impacts Sandhya Satahkopan a2.pdf','',1,'','','','',''),(2382,'82','Application of Higher Order Shear Deformation Theory in the Analysis of thick Rectangular Plate','Onyeka, F.C. and Okeke Thompson Edozie','Application of Higher Order Shear Deformation Theory in the Analysis of thick Rectangular Plate Edozie a3.pdf','',1,'','','','',''),(2383,'82','Impact on Capacity Bounds under Higher Order Hardware Impairments for MIMO Configurations: Novel Approaches','Neelesh Kumar Verma and Arvind Kumar','Impact on Capacity Bounds under Higher Order Hardware Impairments for MIMO Configurations Novel Approaches Neelesh Kumar Verma a4.pdf','',1,'','','','',''),(2384,'82','Service quality Augments Brand Loyalty: Mediating Role of Brand Trust and Moderating Impact of Corporate Image (Empirical Evidence among Customers from Bangladeshi Ready Made Garments-RMG Industry)','Nilufar Yasmin and Valliappan Raju','Service quality Augments Brand Loyalty Mediating Role of Brand Trust and Moderating Impact of Corporate Image Nilufar Yasmin a5.pdf','',1,'','','','',''),(2385,'77','Enhancing Information Security Awareness among Omani Public Sector \r\nEmployees: A Pilot Study ','Issam Al-Shanfari , Warusia Yassin, Raihana Syahirah Abdullah and Gumma Magrisi ','Enhancing Information Security Awareness among Omani Public Sector Employees A Pilot Study Issam Al Shanfari.pdf','',1,'','','','',''),(2387,'82','Determination of Alumina Content during Aluminum Electrolysis in Cryolite-\r\nAlumina Melts ','O.Yu. Tkacheva , P.A. Arkhipov , Yu. P. Zaikov and A.M. Ivanova ','Determination of Alumina Content during Aluminum Electrolysis in Cryolite Alumina Melts O.pdf','',1,'','','','',''),(2388,'82','The Recognition of Latent Fingerprints using Swarm Intelligence based Hybrid Approach ','Tarun Kumar and Ravi Shanker Garg','The Recognition of Latent Fingerprints using Swarm Intelligence based Hybrid Approach 2759CSETarun Kumar13.pdf','',1,'','','','',''),(2389,'82','A Review of Cloud Forensic Investigation: Challenges, Recommendation and Readiness','W. Yassin , M.R. Baharon , N. Bahaman , Z.A. Abas and M.F. Abdollah','A Review of Cloud Forensic Investigation Challenges Recommendation and Readiness 2911W14.pdf','',1,'','','','',''),(2390,'72','Optimization of Design Parameters of Pulsed Eddy Current Probe for Displacement Measurement for finding Diametrical Creep of Test Specimen Capsules','T.V. Shyam, Archanna Sharma , Ankur Kaushik , I.V. Dulera , S.K. Sinha , Nirupam Das and Germain Court','Optimization of Design Parameters of Pulsed Eddy Current Probe for Displacement Measurement66.pdf','',1,'','','','',''),(2391,'82','Liability in International full-container-load and less-than-container-load Transportation under Russian Laws ','Irina S. Abramova','Liability in International fullcontainerload and lessthancontainerload Transportation under Russian Laws Irina S15.pdf','',1,'','','','',''),(2392,'82','An Analytical Study of Employeesâ€™ Payment System Preferences and its Impact on Organizational Commitment: Evidence from Bahrain','Shaju George , Budoor Alalawi and Shaima Bajbair','An Analytical Study of Employees Payment System Preferences and its Impact on Organizational16.pdf','',1,'','','','',''),(2393,'82','Red Color Segmentation based Traffic Signs Detection ','Manal El Baz , Taher Zaki and Hassan Douzi','Red Color Segmentation based Traffic Signs Detection Manal El Baz17.pdf','',1,'','','','',''),(2394,'82','Predicting Phytoplankton Biomass in RanuGrati using Hybrid Neural Fuzzy Inference System (HyFIS) ','Evellin Dewi Lusiana, Mohammad Mahmudi and Tisya Wahidatun Nisya','Predicting Phytoplankton Biomass in RanuGrati using Hybrid18.pdf','',1,'','','','',''),(2395,'82','Russian Engagement in the Shanghai Cooperation Organization: Motives and Current Situation','Igbal A. Guliev, Svetlana V. Karpova, Rostislav L. Rovbel and Sergey Yu. Perevozchikov','19 Russian Engagement in the Shanghai Cooperation Organization Motives and Current Situation Sergey Yu.pdf','',1,'','','','',''),(2396,'82','Social Network Applications as a Teaching-learning Platform: Effectiveness on Studentâ€™s Performance in Higher Education\r\n\r\n','Minorita Lyngdoh and Glenn C. Kharkongor','20 Social Network Applications as a Teaching-learning Platform Effectiveness on Studentâ€™s Performance in Higher Education- Minorita Lyngdoh.pdf','',1,'','','','',''),(2397,'82','Geotechnical Site Investigation for Infrastructure Development Project at Jigmeling Industrial Estate in Sarpang, Bhutan','Karma Tempa and Nimesh Chettri','21 Geotechnical Site Investigation for Infrastructure Development Project at Jigmeling Industrial Estate in Sarpang, Bhutan-Karma Tempa.pdf','',1,'','','','',''),(2398,'82','Digitalization and National Security: Economic and Political Aspects (implications for Russia and the EAEU)','Yana L. Gobareva, Olga Yu. Gorodetskaya, Marina V. Karp and Irina V. Kolesova','22 Digitalization and National Security Economic and Political Aspects _implications for Russia and the EAEU_- Yana L.pdf','',1,'','','','',''),(2399,'82','An Overview of IoT Hardware Development Platforms\r\n\r\n','Dhawan Singh, Amanpreet Sandhu, Aditi Thakur and Nikhil Priyank','23 An Overview of IoT Hardware Development Platforms-3058-Dhawan Singh.pdf','',1,'','','','',''),(2400,'82','Effective Cooperative Hybrid Precoder for Multiuser Mmwave MIMO Communication\r\n\r\n','Hoai Trung Tran','24 Effective Cooperative Hybrid Precoder for Multiuser Mmwave MIMO Communication-3154 Hoai Trung Tran.pdf','',1,'','','','',''),(2401,'82','The Mechanism of Effective Implementation of Strategies for Diversification of Agro-Industrial Enterprises of Ukraine\r\n\r\n','Ðžksana Zghurska,Tetiana Somkina, Lina Melnichuk and Ina Huzhavina','25 The Mechanism of Effective Implementation of Strategies for Diversification of Agro-Industrial Enterprises of Ukraine-3167-Tetiana Somkina.pdf','',1,'','','','',''),(2402,'82','Heterologous Cellulase Genes Expression and Post-Translational Modifications Analysis of Recombinant Saccharomyces cerevisiae','I.N. Sultan, S. Keawsompong, P. Kongsaeree and P. Parakulsuksatid\r\n\r\n','26 Heterologous Cellulase Genes Expression and Post-Translational Modifications Analysis of Recombinant Saccharomyces cerevisiae-3175- P.pdf','',1,'','','','',''),(2403,'82','Frequency Scaling Based Power Efficient Flip-Flop Design in 28nm FPGA\r\n\r\n','Amanpreet Sandhu, Dhawan Singh, Kanika Aggarwal, Vaishali and Shweta Duvuri','27 Frequency Scaling Based Power Efficient Flip-Flop Design in 28nm FPGA-3080-ECE-Dhawan Singh.pdf','',1,'','','','',''),(2404,'82','Synthesis and Crystal Structure of [tetrakis(Î¼-caprylato)-bis-(4-cyanopyridine) copper(II)]\r\n\r\n','S. Baruah, N. Sarmah and B. K. Das,','28 Synthesis and Crystal Structure of [tetrakis_Âµ-caprylato_-bis-_4-cyanopyridine_ copper_II_]-3172-CH-S.pdf','',1,'','','','',''),(2405,'82','Toward Supply Chain 4.0 and How Disruptive Technologies Help\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\n','Qingyu Zhu, Anida Isufi, Moline Kabasa and Shahryar Sorooshian','29 Toward Supply Chain 4.0 and How Disruptive Technologies Help-3140- Qingyu Zhu.pdf','',1,'','','','',''),(2406,'82','Predicting Attackers of Cyberbullying using Ant Colony Optimization in Combating Psychological Effects among the Victims\r\n\r\n','Rizauddin Saian, Noor Shafiqa Fazlien Mohamad Fauzi, Zeti Zuryani Mohd Zakuan, Haswira Nor Mohamad Hashim and Anida Mahmood','30 Predicting Attackers of Cyberbullying using Ant Colony Optimizationin Combating Psychological Effects among the Victims-3176-Rizauddin Saian.pdf','',1,'','','','',''),(2407,'82','Fake News Classification Bimodal using Convolutional Neural Network and Long Short-Term Memory\r\n\r\n','Abdullah1, A.Yasin, M.J. Awan, M.F. Shehzad and M. Ashraf','31 Fake News Classification Bimodal using Convolutional Neural Network and Long Short-Term Memory-3182- M.J.pdf','',1,'','','','',''),(2408,'82','Academic Semester Activities by Learning Management System during COVID-19 Pandemic: A Case of Jazan University\r\n\r\n','Muhammad Arshad, Ahmad Almufarreh, Khaled M. G. Noaman and Muhammad Noman Saeed','32 Academic Semester Activities by Learning Management System during COVID-19 Pandemic A Case of Jazan University-3078-IT- Muhammad Arshad.pdf','',1,'','','','',''),(2409,'82','Studying the Patterns of the Urban Charging Infrastructure Operation for their Energy Supply from Renewable Sources\r\n\r\n \r\n\r\n','A. D. Gorbunova1 and I. A','33 Studying the Patterns of the Urban Charging Infrastructure Operation for their Energy Supply from Renewable Sources-3202- A. D.pdf','',1,'','','','',''),(2410,'82','Smart Mirror to Enhance Learning: A Literature Review\r\n\r\n \r\n\r\n','Nathasia Florentina Thejowahyono, Jeilson Phang, Kevin Nathanael Darmawan and Mochammad Haldi Widianto','34 Smart Mirror to Enhance Learning A Literature Review-3206-Nathasia Florentina Thejowahyono.pdf','',1,'','','','',''),(2411,'82','The Extraction, Purification, and the Recent Applications of Coconut Oil in Food Products - A Review\r\n\r\n \r\n\r\n','Edy Subroto, Aldila Din Pangawikan, Vira Putri Yarlina and Abbya Pratiwi Ramadhani','35 The Extraction, Purification, and the Recent Applications of Coconut Oil in Food Products - A Review-3193-Edy Subroto.pdf','',1,'','','','',''),(2412,'82','A Case Study on Municipal Solid Waste Generation & its Physical Composition in Three Important Towns of Tripura, India','Sukanta Chakraborty, Manish Pal, Kaberi Majumdar & Pankaj Kumar Roy\r\n\r\n ','36 A Case Study on Municipal Solid Waste Generation & its Physical Composition in Three Important Towns of Tripura, India-2976-CE-Sukanta Chakraborty.pdf','',1,'','','','',''),(2413,'82','Impact of HRM Practices Towards the Employee Engagement in Private Banks\r\n\r\n \r\n\r\n','Nishad Nawaz, Vijayakumar Gajenderan and Vasuki K.','37 Impact of HRM Practices Towards the Employee Engagement in Private Banks-2996-Nishad Nawaz.pdf','',1,'','','','',''),(2414,'82','Asian Financial Development: The Rise of a New Financial System\r\n\r\n ','Fedor I. Arzhaev, Zulfiya M. Bikmetova, Elvira N. Iamalova, Oksana N. Ignatieva and Aygul F. Samigullina','38 Asian Financial Development The Rise of a New Financial SystemT-3178- Fedor I.pdf','',1,'','','','',''),(2415,'82',' \r\nAn Investigation of the Effect of Gaseous Fuel Inlet on the Design and Modelling of a Gas -Turbine Combustor for Heating Purposes','A. K. Azab, Tamer M. Ismail, M. M. Abd Alaal M. A. Elkady\r\n\r\n \r\n\r\n','39 An Investigation of the Effect of Gaseous Fuel Inlet on the Design and Modelling of a Gas -Turbine Combustor for Heating Purposes-3113-A. K.pdf','',1,'','','','',''),(2416,'82','Study on Circulation Module of Koha & SOUL2.0\r\n\r\n \r\n\r\n','Saurav Jyoti Laskar and Narendra Lahkar','40 Study on Circulation Module of Koha & SOUL2.pdf','',1,'','','','',''),(2417,'82','Assessment of Reference Evapotranspiration in the South of Ukraine by Air Temperature\r\n\r\n \r\n\r\n\r\n\r\n ','P.V. Lykhovyd','41 Assessment of Reference Evapotranspiration in the South of Ukraine by Air Temperature-3234-P.V.pdf','',1,'','','','',''),(2418,'82','Innovative Methodology and Management Tools of Commercial Real Estate\r\n\r\n','Denys Chernyshev, Dmytro Ryzhakov, Oleksandr Dikiy, Oleksandr Khomenko and Serhiy Petrukha','42 Innovative Methodology and Management Tools of Commercial Real Estate-3225-Dmytro Ryzhakov.pdf','',1,'','','','',''),(2419,'82','Impact of Quenching on the Hardenability of Steels EN-3 (~1015), EN-8 (~1040) and EN-24 (~4340) during Jominy End Quench Technique','Esther T. Akinlabi, Omolayo M. Ikumapayi*, Ojo P. Bodunde, Bernard A. Adaramola, Ikenna D. Uchegbu and Samuel O. Fatoba','43 Impact of Quenching on the Hardenability of Steels EN-3 _~1015_, EN-8 _~1040_ and EN-24 _~4340_ during Jominy End Quench Technique-3149-Omolayo M.pdf','',1,'','','','',''),(2420,'82','Future IoT based on Smart Mirror: A Literature Review','Seto Benson Handoyo, Michael Vincentius Setiawan, Mikhael Valensius and Mochammad Haldi Widianto','44 Future IoT based on Smart Mirror A Literature Review-3210-S. Benson H.pdf','',1,'','','','',''),(2421,'82','Factors Influencing Employee Performance at the Banking Sector in Kingdom of Bahrain: Literature Review','Fatima Isa Aldoseri and Qais Ahmed Almaamari','45 Factors Influencing Employee Performance at the Banking Sector in Kingdom of Bahrain Literature Review-3205-Fatima Isa Aldoseri.pdf','',1,'','','','',''),(2422,'82','A Comprehensive Deriving the Factors of Landslide Happened in Malaysia','A.A. Ab Rahman, N. Abd Majid and S.N. Selamat\r\n\r\n ','46 A Comprehensive Deriving the Factors of Landslide Happened in Malaysia-3209-A.A.pdf','',1,'','','','',''),(2423,'82','Reasons for Upgrading to Supply Chain 4.0\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\n ','David HÃ¤llgren1, Daqi Liu1, Gissel Ruiz1 and Shahryar Sorooshian2','47 Reasons for Upgrading to Supply Chain 4.0-3141 David Hallgren.pdf','',1,'','','','',''),(2424,'82','Significance of Cloud Security Policies and Practices in Corporations and Organizations','Pratik Das and Nishant Kumar','48 Significance of Cloud Security Policies and Practices in Corporations and Organizations-2931-CSE-Nishant Kumar.pdf','',1,'','','','',''),(2425,'82','Evaluation of Herbal Formulation using Andrographis paniculata Gel as an Antifungal Agent against Superficial Mycoses onto Animal Model','Tuan Noorkorina Tuan Kub, Nursaadatun Nisak Ahmad, Zeti Norfidiyati Salmuna, Azian Harun, Siti Asma Hassan4and Zeehaida Mohamed','49 Evaluation of Herbal Formulation using Andrographis paniculata Gel as an Antifungal Agent against Superficial Mycoses onto Animal Model-3230- Tuan Noorkorina Tuan Kub.pdf','',1,'','','','',''),(2426,'82','Analysing the effectiveness of Lean Six-Sigma Approach on Reduction of MUDAS (Wastes). A case study at SME (Small Manufacturing Enterprise) of Pakistan\r\n\r\n','Ahsan Parvaiz Saifullah Samo and Shakeel Shaikh','50 Analysing the effectiveness of Lean Six-Sigma Approach on Reduction of MUDAS _Wastes_.pdf','',1,'','','','',''),(2427,'82','Improved Algorithm for Malay Word Sense Disambiguation\r\n\r\n','Mohd Pouzi Hamzah and Mohd Arizal Shamsil Mat Rifin','51 Improved Algorithm for Malay Word Sense Disambiguation-3259- Mohd Pouzi Hamzah.pdf','',1,'','','','',''),(2428,'82','Statistical and Real life Significance of Obesity as an Etiopathogenesis of Type 2 Diabetes Mellitus\r\n\r\n','Prasanth C.B., Ramya. M. S. and Subrahmanian C.','52 Statistical and Real life Significance of Obesity as an Etiopathogenesis of Type 2 Diabetes Mellitus-3284-Prasanth.C.pdf','',1,'','','','',''),(2429,'82','Predicting the Impacts of Religion and Culture on Intention and Behavior towards Preventing Covid-19: Extending Theory of Planned Behavior','Tekalign Lemma Woldesilassie and Venkata Mallikharjuna Kishan Ivatury\r\n\r\n ','53 Predicting the Impacts of Religion and Culture on Intention and Behavior towards Preventing Covid-19 Extending Theory of Planned Behavior-3144-Tekalign Lemma Woldesilassie.pdf','',1,'','','','',''),(2430,'82','Greening Existing Buildings for Energy Efficiency: A review\r\n\r\n\r\n ','Nurnazerah H. Julayhe1 and Md Motiar Rahman2\r\n','54 Greening Existing Buildings for Energy Efficiency A review-3265-CE-Nurnazerah H.pdf','',1,'','','','',''),(2431,'82','Development of an Adaptive Energy Aware Routing Scheme for Wireless Sensor Networks\r\n\r\n','Nauman Saeed Khan, Aamir Hussain, Mubashir Ali, Abdul Razzaq and Amir Ijaz','55 Development of an Adaptive Energy Aware Routing Scheme for Wireless Sensor Networks-3212-CSE-Nauman Saeed Khan.pdf','',1,'','','','',''),(2432,'82','Conceptual Design: A Novel Covid-19 Smart AI Helmet\r\n\r\n','Safaa N. Saud Al-Humairi, Muhammad Hafiz Zainol, Husniza Razalli, Lilysuriazna Raya, Muhammad Irsyad Abdullah and R. Junaidi Daud','56 Conceptual Design A Novel Covid-19 Smart AI Helmet-3196-Safaa Najah Saud Al-Humairi.pdf','',1,'','','','',''),(2433,'82','Is Exchange Rate Volatility Influenced by Macroeconomic Variables ? In Context of Pakistan\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\n','Isbat Alam, Lu Shichang, Sobia Naseem and Muhammad Mohsin','57 Is Exchange Rate Volatility Influenced by Macroeconomic Variables In Context of Pakistan-3294.pdf','',1,'','','','',''),(2441,'87','Teaching Competency and Job Stress of Teachers of Senior Secondary School in Kulgam ','Mohamad Rafiq Bhat and Sarla Nirankari','1 Teaching Competency and Job Stress of Teachers of Senior Secondary School in Kulgam Rafiq-.pdf','',1,'','','','',''),(2442,'87','Study of Social Media Usage by Banking Institutions','Divya Pathak ','2 Study of Social Media Usage by Banking Institutions Divya Pathak.pdf','',1,'','','','',''),(2443,'87','A Study of Mutual Funds (MF) & Foreign Institutional Investor (FIIs) Flows in India and Role of Technology','Surbhi Jain','3 A Study of Mutual Funds _MF_ & Foreign Institutional Investor _FIIs_ Flows in India and Role of Technology Surbhi Jain.pdf','',1,'','','','',''),(2444,'87','Impact of Solar Energy on the quality of Work Life of IT Employees Reflected through Human Resource Information Management','Mansi Saxena, Ashu Raymond and Yogesh Roy','4 Impact of Solar Energy on the quality of Work Life of IT Employees Reflected through Human Resource Information Management Mansi Saxena -revised.pdf','',1,'','','','',''),(2445,'88','Dogra Rule and Socio Economic Condition of Kashmir\r\n\r\n','Urmeena Akhter','1 Dogra Rule and Socio Economic Condition of Kashmir Urmeena Akhter.pdf','',1,'','','','',''),(2446,'88','Perception of Farmers towards Conversion of Agriculture Land to Other Sectors: A Case Study of Pulwama District Jammu & Kashmir â€“ India\r\n\r\n',' Ummer John Ganai and Vedh Prakash Tripathi','2 Perception of Farmers towards Conversion of Agriculture Land to Other Sectors A Case Study of Pulwama District Jammu & Kashmir – India Ummer John Ganai.pdf','',1,'The Land is a basic input for agriculture and it occupies an important position among all the resources required for a modern economy. Food is a source of nutrition and basic need for life. The different crops are grown as per their requirements as staple food. The present investigation is to study the causes and concerns of agriculture land conversion in district Pulwama. A pre-tested questionnaire has been used to study the perception of farmers towards conversion of agriculture land to other sectors. Our study reported that 25.5% of the agricultural farmers have converted their land to horticulture and 60% of them have converted their towards residential sectors which is quite alarming and opposite to the land policy of Jammu and Kashmir. There is an urgent need to restrict land conversion in Kashmir valley to reduce negative consequences that may otherwise expose society to the different vulnerabilities.','Food, Agriculture, Conversion, impact, Kashmir','The land conversion in Jammu and Kashmir over the years is causing a threat to the food security of the region. It\r\nwill make the valley dependent on food from other states that have its own repercussions. It has been observed that\r\ndue to less market value of rice in the region, people have shifted to horticulture sector as it fetches more market\r\nvalue as compared to rice. There is an urgent need to restrict land conversion in Kashmir valley to reduce negative\r\nconsequences that may otherwise expose society to the different vulnerabilities.','[1]. Aravind, K., (2010). Economics of land use and cropping pattern in northern transitional zone of Karnataka. M.\r\nSc. (Agri) Thesis, Univ. Agric. Sci., Dharwad, Karnataka (India).\r\n[2]. Bardhan, D. and Tewari, S. Bardhan, D. and Tewari, S. K., (2010). An investigation into land use dynamics in\r\nIndia and land under-utilisation. Indian J. Agri. Econ., 65(4): 658-676.\r\n[3]. Goswami, S. N. and Challa, O. (2006). Socio-economic factors affecting land use in India. Agric. Situ. India,\r\n60(10): 615–623.\r\n[4]. Harish, M. H. (2006). An appraisal of land use dynamics in Mandya district. M. Sc. (Agri) Thesis, Univ. Agric.\r\nSci., Dharwad, Karnataka (India).','Perception of Farmers towards Conversion of Agriculture Land to Other Sectors: A Case Study of Pulwama District Jammu & Kashmir – India'),(2452,'76','Characterization and Delineation of soil properties of AnbilDharmalingam Agricultural College and Research Institute Farm, Tiruchirappalli\r\n\r\n','Hemalatha, S., Sharuk Khan, M, Kalimuthu, D, Meiyanandhan, M, Sherene, P. Balasubramaniam \r\nand P. Masilamani','6 Characterization and Delineation of soil properties of AnbilDharmalingam Agricultural College and Research Institute Farm, Tiruchirappalli T SHERENE.pdf','',1,'','','','',''),(2453,'70','Biochar: Preparation, Properties and Applications in Sustainable Agriculture\r\n','Ashaq Ahmad Dar, Mohd. Yousuf Rather, Javid Manzoor Waseem Yaseen and Khursheed Ahmad Wani\r\nand Dheeraj Vasu\r\n','5 Biochar Preparation, Properties and Applications in Sustainable Agriculture.pdf','',1,'','','','',''),(2454,'55','A Review of Composition and Diversity of Butterfly (Lepidoptera: Rhopalocera) Fauna in India\r\n\r\n','Deepinderpal Singh, P.C. Pathania and Gurmeet Kaur','5 A Review of Composition and Diversity of Butterfly (Lepidoptera Rhopalocera) Fauna in India DEEPINDERPAL SINGH.pdf','',1,'','','','',''),(2455,'55','Studies on Use of Waste Plastic: A Review\r\n','Ashok Pundir, Mohindra Singh Thakur, Vikas Mehta, Bhupender Kumar1 and Radha \r\n','6 Studies on Use of Waste Plastic A Review RADHA.pdf','',1,'','','','',''),(2456,'55','Study of Time-Fractional three Dimensional Thermoelastic Problem of a Thin Rectangular Plate\r\n\r\n','Hamna Mirza and H.S. Roy','7 Study of Time-Fractional three Dimensional Thermoelastic Problem of a Thin Rectangular Plate Hamna Mirza.pdf','',1,'','','','',''),(2461,'89','Recollection of Critically Endangered plant Ceropegia odorata Nimmo ex J. Graham (Asclepiadaceae) after 128 years from Mount Abu Wildlife Sanctuary, Rajasthan, India','R.N.Kulloli, C.S. Purohit*, Vinod Maina , Balaji Kari','Recollection of Critically Endangered plant1.pdf','',1,'','','','',''),(2462,'89','Ludwigia adscendens (L.) H. Hara (Onagraceae) â€“ A new record for Andaman and Nicobar Islands, India','Apurba Kumar Das*, C. Sivaperuman','Ludwigia adscendens L H Hara Onagraceae2.pdf','',1,'','','','',''),(2463,'89','New record of Podoscypha multizonata (Berk. & Br.) Pat. from Garhwal Himalayas, Uttarakhand, India','Vipin Parkash*, Rahul Agnihotri, Akshita Gaur','New record of Podoscypha multizonata3.pdf','',1,'','','','',''),(2464,'89','Species of Philippine Ardisia Sw. (Primulaceae)','Liezel Molina-Magtoto* , Inocencio E. Buot, Jr','Species of Philippine Ardisia Sw4.pdf','',1,'','','','',''),(2466,'89','A little known orchid Habenaria longicorniculata (Orchidaceae) from Mount Abu wildlife sanctuary, Rajasthan and its IUCN status','C.S. Purohit , R.N. Kulloli*, V. Maina , R. Kumar , Balaji Kari','A little known orchid Habenaria longicorniculata5.pdf','',1,'','','','',''),(2467,'89','First record of Termite hill gecko, Hemidactylus triedrus (Daudin, 1802) from Odisha, India','Aurobindo Samal* , Sandipt Maharana','First record of Termite hill gecko6.pdf','',1,'','','','',''),(2476,'72','Influence of HRM Practices on Employee Engagement in Private Sector Banks','Nishad Nawaz, V. Balaji and Vijayakumar Gajenderan','67 Influence of HRM Practices on Employee Engagement in Private Sector Banks-Nishad Nawaz.pdf','',1,'','','','',''),(2481,'89','Spindasis schistacea (Moore, 1881) â€” Plumbeous Silverline: A new butterfly record from Himachal Pradesh, India','Praveen Kumar* , Rajesh Kumar , Jitender Kumar','Spindasis schistacea Moore1881Plumbeous7.pdf','',1,'','','','',''),(2482,'84','Impact of Cell Phone Radiations in Reproduction-A Review\r\n\r\n','Harvinder Singh and Meenakshi Sharma','4 Impact of Cell Phone Radiations in Reproduction-A Review MEENAKSHI SHARMA.pdf','',1,'Cellular gadgets are crinkling the modern day society and health effects caused by the electromagnetic radiations emitted from cell phones are overlooked. Present study was designed in order to direct the attention towards reproductive health and awareness among the public regarding the effects of electromagnetic radiations emitted from cell phones on the reproductive capabilities in both males and females. For this, different research journals, scientific search engines including ISI web of knowledge, pubmed, google scholar and medline which are published since 2010 in english were searched and relevant articles were selected for the review. It has been observed that the electromagnetic radiations can enhance the excitability of the reproductive organs causing increase in testosterone, alteration in spermatogenesis, infertility among couples, apoptosis, mortality, quality of oocytes and oxidative degeneration. The damaging effect of these radiations depends upon the frequency range, ','Cell Phones, Electromagnetic Field, Radiofrequency Radiations, Reproductive Health.','In spite of the extensive research, demonstration for a damaging effect of cell phones on male and female genitals is still equivocal. The question has upraised a fundamental public concern; if cellular radiation causes any hazardous effects on human fertilization potential. The indecisive findings of the study forced us to think and to articulate our thoughts more strongly whether the sperm quality, spermatogenesis, infertility, miscarriage and fertilizing potentialities are affected by the use of cell phones or not. Still, extensive research should be conducted utilizing better study designs and models in order to explore the damage in pathophysiology campaigned in respect to EMF exposure from cell phones on the male and female reproductive system.','-','Singh, H. and Sharma, M. (2020). Impact of Cell Phone Radiations in Reproduction-A Review. Biological Forum â€“ An International Journal, 12(2): 30-38.'),(2483,'84','New Records of Sidyma albifinis Walker, 1856, the White-Tip Footman (Lepidoptera : Erebidae : Arctiinae) from Doon Valley, Dehra Dun (Uttarakhand)','Akhlaq Husain','5 New Records of Sidyma albifinis Walker, 1856, the White-Tip Footman _Lepidoptera Erebidae Arctiinae_ from Doon Valley, Dehra Dun _Uttarakhand_ Akhlaq Husain sidyma.pdf','',1,'The present communication deals with the new records of Sidyma albifinis Walker, 1856, the White-tip Footman, from Doon Valley, Dehra Dun (Uttarakhand) with its synonymy, classification, diagnostic features, differences from allied species, altitudinal range, distribution and host plant. ','New Records of Sidyma albifinis from Doon Valley.','The moth fauna of Uttarakhand (Western Himalaya) has attracted the attention of various workers during the past (Hampson, 1892, 1894, 1895, 1896, ; Strand, 1922; Bell & Scott, 1937; Smetacek, 1993, 2008; Arora, 1979, 2000; Kaleka & Rose, 2001; Kaleka, 2003; Dubatolov, 2010; Majumdar, 2010, Majumdar & Kumar, 2010; Sanyal et al., 2011, 2013a,b; Kirti & Joshi, 2013; Singh et al., 2014; Uniyal et al., 2013, 2016; Dey, 2016; Dey et al., 2015, 2017, 2918, 2019; Sanyal, 2015; Garia et al., 2016; Sondhi & Sondhi, 2016; Husain & Ahmad, 2018, 2000; Husain, 2019; Husain & Hasan, 2020; Husain et al., 2020) but no published record on the occurrence of Sidyma albifinis Walker, 1856, the White-tip Footman, from Doon Valley is available except for a photograph from Dhoran Khas by Sondhi in mothsofindia. Earlier, it was reported from Mussoorie (Hampson, 1900; Strand, 1922; Singh et al., 2014; Sondhi & Sondhi, 2016) and Chakrata hills (Kaleka, 2002) in Dehra Dun district. \r\nRecently, two good specimen','-','Husain, A. (2020). New Records of Sidyma albifinis Walker, 1856, the White-Tip Footman (Lepidoptera : Erebidae : Arctiinae) from Doon Valley, Dehra Dun (Uttarakhand). Biological Forum â€“ An International Journal, 12(2): 39-43.'),(2484,'89','Mycoenterolobium borivaliense sp. nov. (Pleosporomycetidae, Dothideomycetes) reported from India','Rashmi Dubey*, Amit D. Pandey','Mycoenterolobium borivaliense sp nov8.pdf','',1,'','','','',''),(2489,'90','A Generalized Exponential Model based Analysis of Daily Low Temperature Data of Ahmedabad City using Markov Chain Approach','Harshil J. Patel and Manharlal N. Patel','1 A Generalized Exponential Model based Analysis of Daily Low Temperature Data of Ahmedabad City using Markov Chain Approach 3307-Harshil J.pdf','',1,'','','','',''),(2490,'84','Distribution and Status of Freshwater Fish Fauna and its Habitat in the Water bodies of Kendrapara District, Odisha, India','B.K. Baliarsingh, S. K. Swain, Oliver King E.D., D. Nandi and B. Rath','6 Distribution and Status of Freshwater Fish Fauna and its Habitat in the Water bodies of Kendrapara District, Odisha, India -631- B.K. Baliarsingh.pdf','',1,'A study on freshwater fish fauna of Kendrapara district of Odisha, India was provided. A total of 63 species of fishes under 44 genera, 25 families and 8 orders has been recorded. Highest species diversity was observed in the Cyprinidae (33.3%) followed by Bagridae (7.9%). The fish fauna includes 49 least concern (LC), 5 near threatened (NT), 2 data deficient (DD) and 7 not assessed (NA) as per IUCN. The study shows that water bodies of kendrapara district including numerous economical importance food fishes as well as ornamental fishes belongs to freshwater, marine and brackish water habitat. In the study 44 species coming under capture fishery, 45 species has ornamental value, 21 species for culture and 10 species under sports fishery. Water quality of different water bodies are not contaminated as the study shows both the pH & DO are within the tolerance limit of class â€˜Dâ€™. So the water quality of the water bodies under Kendrapara district will be recommended for aquaculture and','Fish fauna distribution, Kendrapara, Odisha, water quality parameters.','The fish fauna available in different water bodies of Kendrapara district is really useful for the coastal community as there livelihood. The results of the present study may use as base line information for planning a conservational management of fish and fisheries resources of Odisha in feature. Al so introduces in-situ & ex-situ cultivation techniques for conservation sustainable management of fish genetic resources.','-','Baliarsingh, B. K., Swain, S. K., Oliver King E.D., Nandi, D. and Rath, B. (2020). Distribution and Status of Freshwater Fish Fauna and its Habitat in the Water bodies of Kendrapara District, Odisha, India. Biological Forum â€“ An International Journal, 1'),(2491,'84','First sighting record of albino Spectacled cobra Naja naja (Linnaeus, 1758) from Uttarakhand, India','Vipul Maurya, Pravesh Kumar and Parag M. Dhakate','7 First sighting record of albino Spectacled cobra Naja naja _Linnaeus, 1758_ from Uttarakhand, India Vipul Maurya.pdf','',1,'The present communication deals with the first time sighting of four albino Spectacled Cobras, Naja naja (Linnaeus, 1758) from Haldwani (Nainital district) in Kumaon division and the state of Uttarakhand as a whole. ','Albino, Naja naja, new record, Uttarakhand. ','Present study is based on observations, encounters as well as random search for snakes in different locations (Chitranjanpur, Dineshpur, Jafrapur and Sampatpur) during June/September in the years 2014, 2015 and 2018 (Table 1) and sighted Albino Cobras, both young and adult, for the first time from the area and the state of Uttarakhand and recorded here. These specimens were found in human-dominated areas with agriculture fields and water bodies. ','-','Maurya, Vipul, Kumar, Pravesh and Dhakate, Parag M. (2020). First sighting record of albino Spectacled cobra Naja naja (Linnaeus, 1758) from Uttarakhand, India. Biological Forum â€“ An International Journal, 12(2): 51-53.'),(2492,'85',' Studies on the Species Diversity of Damselflies and Dragonflies (Odonata: Insecta) around the Tributary of Tons River, Dehradun, Uttarakhand, India','Gaurav Sharma','2 Diversity of Shrubs in Kibber Beat in Kibber Wildlife Sanctuary of Lahaul & Spiti District, Himachal Pradesh GAURAV SHARMA.pdf','',1,'','','','',''),(2493,'85','Evaluation and Demonstration of Dual Purpose Chicken â€œPotchefstroom Koikoekâ€ at Selected districts of Gamo Gofa Zone, SNNPR, Ethiopia','Mekete Manjura, Hana Tadesse, Berekete Zeleke and Mesfin Gambura','3 Evaluation and Demonstration of Dual Purpose Chicken â€œPotchefstroom Koikoekâ€ at Selected districts of Gamo Gofa Zone, SNNPR, Ethiopia Mekete Manjura 1231.pdf','',1,'','','','',''),(2494,'85','New Record of Himalayan Earth Tiger Tarantula Haplocosmia himalayana (Pocock, 1899) (Arachnida : Araneae : Theraphosidae) from Rajpur, Dehra Dun (Uttarakhand) with its Taxo-morphology, Distribution and Pest Controlling','Akhlaq Husain','4 New Record of Himalayan Earth Tiger Taran.pdf','',1,'-','-','-','-','-'),(2495,'85','New Record of Duttaphrynus melanostictus (Schneider, 1799) (Anura : Bufonidae) from Jamshedpur, Jharkhand with Systematic Account and Conservation Status','Akhlaq Husain and Hishmi Jamil Husain','5 New Record of Duttaphrynus Melanostictus _Schneider, 1799_ _Anura Bufonidae_ from Jamshedpur, Jharkhand with Systematic Account and Conservation Status Akhlaq Husain.pdf','',1,'','','','',''),(2497,'34','Some Hypergeometric Generalizations of Question-700 of S. Ramanujan, K.R. Rama Aiyar and K. Appukuttan Erady','Nadeem Ahmad','51 Some Hypergeometric Generalizations of Question-700 of S. Ramanujan, K.R. Rama Aiyar and K.pdf','',1,'','','','',''),(2498,'90','Evaluation of Cryptographic Algorithms on Low Power Devices used in Smart City','Muneer Ahmad Dar','2 Evaluation of Cryptographic Algorithms on Low Power Devices used in Smart City-Muneer Ahmad Dar.pdf','',1,'','','','',''),(2499,'84','A Review on Coral Reef Fisheries itâ€™s Management and Conservation Strategies','Suman Nama and Sahina Akter','8 A Review on Coral Reef Fisheries itâ€™s Management and Conservation Strategies Suman Nama.pdf','',1,'Coral reefs are the most ecologically diversified and economically valuable underwater ecosystems scattered in tropical and sub-tropical regions of the world\'s oceans. It occupies only 0.1% area of the ocean floor and supports about 25% of a marine organism. Coral reefs provide habitat for much important fish, shellfish, and other invertebrates targeted for fishing and promote a higher number of species than any ecosystem. Coral reef fisheries provide food, income, recreation, significant cultural and spiritual importance, and essential ecological functions for coral reefs (e.g., herbivory). Coral reef fisheries offer billions of dollars economies of many countries around the globe. It supports various commercial and artisanal fishing, a prominent social safety net for people when other sources of employment are unavailable. Still, the reefs are degrading day by day because of climate change, overfishing, coastal development, destructive fishing practices, and anthropogenic threats. Th','Climate change, coral gardening, overfishing, ecology, ecosystem','The coral reef is the most diverse and economically valuable ecosystem. It provides immense economic and ecological services for humankind. Instead of providing huge benefits, the value of corals is underestimated. The reef ecosystem is under extreme threat due to natural and anthropogenic threats such as pollution, sedimentation, climate change, and coral bleaching. Overexploitation of commercially important fishes from the coral reef makes the ecosystem vulnerable to sustain the fishery. So, the appropriate management measures need to be adopted to protect the reef ecosystem. The strategies like community and ecosystem-based management approach with international authorities\' collaboration can be a better option to ensure the conservation of the beautiful underwater resources.','-','Nama, S. and Akter, S. (2020). A Review on Coral Reef Fisheries itâ€™s Management and Conservation Strategies. Biological Forum â€“ An International Journal, 12(2): 54-62.'),(2500,'84','Cross-cultural Investigation on Common Phytonyms of Caryota urens L. (Arecaceae): some Indications\r\n','D.A. Patil','9 Cross-cultural investigation on common phytonyms of Caryota urens L. _Arecaceae_ Some Indications D.A. Patil.pdf','',1,'Common phytonyms are closely associated to physical, biological and cultural features. The ways in which indigenous people coin name, conceptualize and organize the plants in their ambience have been of great interest to ethnobotanists. Such names help us to understand interrelationships between languages, cognition, memory, survival and world view if analyzed comparatively on etymological ground. Caryota urens L. (Arecaceae) is a multipurpose and still undernutralized tree species inhabiting some Asian countries. The present author examined its common names in various Indian languages as well as outside India where it grows. This attempt encoded morphological data, ecological features, folklore, medicinal virtues and such other functions from the common names studied. Such comparative studies are desirable as the incredible knowledge of our ancestors is being eroded because of modernization and fast rate of acculturation worldwide.','Caryota urens, Common phytonyms, Etymology, Ethnobotany.','The derivation of common plant names helps us to understand its cultural history as well as its history of uses. The common phytonyms of Caryota urens are self-explanatory: (1) Hindi: Ban-Khajur (Ban-jungle, wild; Khajur-date, date-palm). The fruits resemblance of these is indicated. (2) Assamese: Surgutti-goch (Sura-wine) Toddy obtained turns into intoxicating drink after fermentation. (3) Marathi: (a) Dongri-mad (Dongri-inhabiting in hilly forests; mad-a palm). The palm grows in wild in hilly forests. (b) Sur-mad: (Sur, Sura-wine, mad-palm). The palm is a resource for obtaining wine. (c) Ardhi-supari (Ardhi-half one, supari-arecanut). Resemblance of half-cut areca-nut is indicated. (d) Bherli-mad (Bherli-indicative of state of mind going out of control, mad-a palm). This refers to Neera, a fermented product (obtained from toddy) which is intoxicating. (4) Konkani: Birli-mad or Birlo-mad. The meaning and indication as the Marathi name explained above. (5) Bengali: (a) Sopari (Sopari-a','-','Patil, D. A. (2020). Cross-cultural investigation on common phytonyms of Caryota urens L. (Arecaceae): Some Indications. Biological Forum â€“ An International Journal, 12(2): 63-67.'),(2501,'88','Knowledge, Attitude and Practice of Bao Sport in Cultural Tourism Promotion in Tanzania ','Deus P. Ngaruko, Harrieth G. Mtae and Kezia H. Mkwizu','3 Knowledge, Attitude and Practice of Bao Sport in Cultural Tourism Promotion in Tanzania 1174-Kezia H.pdf','',1,'','','','',''),(2502,'88','Conversion of Agriculture to Horticulture in Kashmir: A Case Study of Baramulla District','Anarkali and Arvind Chauhan','4 Conversion of Agriculture to Horticulture in Kashmir A Case Study of Baramulla District -1184-Anarkali.pdf','',1,'','','','',''),(2503,'88','Developments in Indian Arbitration Regime','Vivek Tyagi and Nitu Nawal','5 Developments in Indian Arbitration Regime-1183- VIVEK TYAGI.pdf','',1,'','','','',''),(2504,'84','Biodegradable Polymers for Nanofibre Production','K. Selvakumar, R. Madhan and G. Venkat Kumar','10 Biodegradable Polymers for Nanofibre Production-646-K.pdf','',1,'Nanotechnology is becoming an integral part of almost all of the science and technology sectors\r\nin different ways. Nano is offering dynamic tools, which play a crucial role based on their science-dependent manner. Nanofibre is one such tool that has predominant application scope in varied fields including pharmaceuticals, environmental engineering, tissue engineering, energy storage, sensors, etc. Polymers are\r\nthe fundamental ingredients based on which the nanofibre fabrication is carried out. Varied applications\r\nusing these polymeric nanofibres demand effective clearing of the nanofibres from the site of action, within\r\nthe body or from the environment in a relatively shorter period. The biocompatibility and biodegradability is of the greatest concerns in the biomedical application point of nanofibres. Biologically degradable polymers are increasing the interest of the researchers as they can be eliminated from the body during in-vivo\r\napplications and from environment relatively a','Nanofibre, biodegradability, biocompatibility, electrospinning, natural polymer, synthetic polymer. ','The polymers which are claimed to be biodegradable\r\ncontain functional groups which are unstable owing to\r\ntheir hydrolytic nature. The green polymers or\r\nbiopolymers contribute greatly to nanofibre synthesis\r\nbecause of their biodegradable nature, which has been\r\nbriefed in this review. The biocompatibility,\r\nsustainability, cost, recycling, eco-friendly nature, etc.\r\nare some of the parameters of these polymers that\r\nattract nanofibre fabricators. However, each polymer\r\ndiscussed has its own merits and demerits in terms of its\r\nusage in nanofibre synthesis. Newer versions of these\r\npolymers through functional modification or through\r\nblending with other eco-friendly chemicals or\r\nnanoparticles, etc. could further expand the scope of\r\nthese polymers in nanofibre synthesis. Till that, the\r\nresearch on finding biodegradable polymer with\r\nexcellent fiber making physio-chemical properties will\r\nbe continuing. ','-','Selvakumar, K., Madhan, R. and Kumar, G. V. (2020). Biodegradable Polymers for\r\nNanofibre Production. Biological Forum â€“ An International Journal, 12(2): 68-73. '),(2505,'91','An Overview of Coherent and Non-coherent Pulse Compression Waveforms ','T. D. Bhatt ','1 An Overview of Coherent and Non-coherent Pulse Compression Waveforms-1085-TD BHATT.pdf','',1,'','','','',''),(2506,'91','Image Refinement of Degrade Documents using Image Binarization ','Huma Khan and Anas Iqbal ','2 Image Refinement of Degrade Documents using Image Binarization-1104-Huma Khan.pdf','',1,'','','','',''),(2509,'84','Awareness Towards COVID 19 among undergraduate Environmental\r\nStudents of Kashmir Valley: A Case Study','Khursheed Ahmad Wani , Md. Khursheed , Irfan Jamila and Javid Manzoor','11 Awareness Towards COVID 19 among undergraduate Environmental Students of Kashmir Valley A Case Study Khursheed Ahmad Wania.pdf','',1,'The objective of the study was to investigate the awareness towards COVID 19 among the student community of Kashmir valley. An online questionnaire was circulated among 110 students who are studying in Govt Degree Colleges of Union Territory of Jammu and Kashmir. Only those students were selected who are studying environmental Science as one of their graduation subjects. The study indicated that students are aware about different modes of transmission and control strategies. However, Intervention is needed at various stages to prevent its transmission. Further, a large number of students were impacted economically and educationally due to COVID as well. Social distancing, follow medical advice, stay home as far as possible are considered best strategies to prevent the spread of COVID 19 till vaccines will be available in the market.','COVID 19, Awareness, Students, Prevention, Impact. ','Given a modest understanding among the students of Environmental Science, their behaviour and practice were stronger towards the participation. Hence, to plan for disease and pandemic conditions, understanding among the students needs to be strengthened. To increase understanding and gain adequate information, it is necessary to have a robust health education programme during this type of pandemic among the graduate students.\r\nThis study was limited in approach as the sample size was less and this type of studies may be directed for other streams/professions to generate a broader view of awareness towards COVID-19 by incorporating more questions.\r\n','-','Wani, K. A., Md. Khursheed, Jamila, I. and Manzoor, J. (2020). Awareness Towards COVID-19 among undergraduate Environmental Students of Kashmir Valley: A Case Study. Biological Forum â€“ An International Journal, 12(2): 74-78.'),(2510,'72','A Survey on Memetic Algorithm and Machine learning Approach to Traveling Salesman Problem','Rajiv Kumar','68 A Survey on Memetic Algorithm and Machine learning Approach to Traveling Salesman Problem-Rajeev G.pdf','',1,'','','','',''),(2512,'90','Prediction of Olive Oil Productivity using Machine Learning Decision Tree Algorithm','Mohammad Zaid Alkelani and Mohammed Awad','3 Prediction of Olive Oil Productivity using Machine Learning Decision Tree Algorithm-3411-CSE-Mohammad ZaidAlkelani.pdf','',1,'','','','',''),(2518,'88','The Three Pillars concept for a Successful Business: Management, Finance & Technical ','Er. Ashutosh Mishra and Dibakar Mishra','6 The Three Pillars concept for a Successful Business Management, Finance & Technical -1178-Er.pdf','',1,'','','','',''),(2527,'82','Effectiveness of Duolingo App in Developing Learner\'s Vocabulary, Grammar and Pronunciation: A Case Study of a blended TESOL Classroom ','Hind A. Al Fadda and Rasha M. Alaudan','58 Effectiveness of Duolingo App in Developing Learner\'s Vocabulary, Grammar and Pronunciation A Case Study of a blended TESOL Classroom-3295- Hind A.pdf','',1,'','','','',''),(2528,'82','COVID 19 Pandemic and Online Education in Hong Kong: An Exploratory Study','Lin Qiuhan, Muhammad Afzaal, Rasha Alaudan and Muhammad Younas','59 COVID 19 Pandemic and Online Education in Hong Kong An Exploratory Study-3321.pdf','',1,'','','','',''),(2529,'82','Synthesis of ZnO/polyaniline Nanocomposite and its Application as Liquefied Petroleum Gas Sensor','Sunil Kumar, Lalit Kumar, Ravi Kant and Vijay Kumar Sharma','60 Synthesis of ZnOpolyaniline Nanocomposite and its Application as Liquefied Petroleum Gas Sensor.pdf','',1,'','','','',''),(2530,'82','Cyber Security and its Reality in Bangladesh: An Analysis of Existing Legal Frameworks','Kudrat-E-Khuda (Babu)','61 Cyber Security and its Reality in Bangladesh An Analysis of Existing Legal Frameworks 3302 Kudrat-E-Khuda.pdf','',1,'','','','',''),(2531,'82','Redefining Sentiment through Social Media Streams','Farhat Abbas, Gh. Hassan and Jitendra Sheetlani\r\n','62 Redefining Sentiment through Social Media Streams.pdf','',1,'','','','',''),(2532,'82','Social Networking Growth: Information, Data and Material Generation through Historical Leadership ','Kaisar Hussain, Gh. Hassan and Jitendra Sheetlani','63 Social Networking Growth Information, Data and Material Generation through Historical Leadership.pdf','',1,'','','','',''),(2533,'82','Role of Resources in Team Work Engagement: A Study of Banking Sector of Pakistan','Haider Ali Malik, Ghazala Haider, Anam Bhatti and Khalid Hussain','64 Role of Resources in Team Work Engagement A Study of Banking Sector of Pakistan 3312-Haider Ali Malik.pdf','',1,'','','','',''),(2534,'82','Determinants of Selection of Educational Institute among Parents','Isbat Alam, Muhammad Mohsin, Sobia Naseem, Tamoor Azam and Muhammad Zia Ur Rehman','65 Determinants of Selection of Educational Institute among Parents-3346.pdf','',1,'','','','',''),(2535,'82','Critical Variables Influencing Project Performance in Real Estate Building Construction Sectors in Ethiopia, East Africa','Venkata Mallikharjuna Kishan Ivatury and Tekalign Lemma Woldesilassie','66 Critical Variables Influencing Project Performance in Real Estate Building Construction Sectors in Ethiopia, East Africa-3199- Tekalign Lemma Woldesilassie.pdf','',1,'','','','',''),(2536,'82','Analytical Analysis and Performance Characterization of Hexagonal Grid Configuration of Wet Cell Battery','Arshad Hussain Jamali, Saifullah Samo, Shakil Ahmed Shaikh, Tanweer Hussain and Muhammad Atif Qaimkhani','67 Analytical Analysis and Performance Characterization of Hexagonal Grid Configuration of Wet Cell Battery-3317-ME-Saifullah Samo.pdf','',1,'','','','',''),(2537,'82','Factors Influencing Knowledge Management Implementation in Secondary School: A Case Study in Malaysia','Lim Sook Hon Sabariah Sharif, Rosy Talin and Soon Singh Bikar Singh','68 Factors Influencing Knowledge Management Implementation in Secondary School A Case Study in Malaysia-3267-Sabariah Sharif.pdf','',1,'','','','',''),(2538,'82','Lexical Bundles: A Corpus -driven investigation of Academic Writing Teaching to ESL Undergraduates','Liu Kanglong and Muhammad Afzaal','69 Lexical Bundles A Corpus -driven investigation of Academic Writing Teaching to ESL Undergraduates-3358.pdf','',1,'','','','',''),(2539,'82','Understanding the Acceptance of Digital Payment by Micro- and Small-scale Business in Indonesia','Donny Darmawan, Fazliadi Rahmatillah, Sri Ivan Madriansyah, Zulkarnain Prastyo, Fergyanto E. Gunawan, and Muhammad Asrol','70 Understanding the Acceptance of Digital Payment by Micro- and Small-scale Business in Indonesia-3296-Donny Darmawan.pdf','',1,'','','','',''),(2540,'82','An Autonomous Surveillance Robot with IoT based Rescue System Enhancement','Hasan Mahmud, Jamal Uddin Ahamed and Mohammed Nazrul Islam Khan','71 An Autonomous Surveillance Robot with IoT based Rescue System Enhancement-3290-EEE- Hasan Mahmud.pdf','',1,'','','','',''),(2541,'82','Optimization of Carbon Source and Concentration for actobacillus acidophilus Growth, Phenolic Production and Antioxidant Activity in Fermented Seaweed Extract\r\n','E.N. Dewi, N. Nurhana, S. Septiningrum, L. Rianingsih and P.H. Riyadi','72 Optimization of Carbon Source and Concentration for Lactobacillus acidophilus-3101- E.N.pdf','',1,'','','','',''),(2542,'82','Role of Organizational Structure and Management Support on Firms Performance: Mediating Effect of Organizational Learning Capabilities','Zhouhua and Valliappan Raju','73 Role of Organizational Structure and Management Support on Firms Performance Mediating Effect of Organizational Learning Capabilities-3151-Zhouhua.pdf','',1,'','','','',''),(2543,'82','High Efficient CSDG MOSFET based Boost Switching Regulator','Okikioluwa E. Oyedeji and Viranjay M. Srivastava','74 High Efficient CSDG MOSFET based Boost Switching Regulator-3047-ECE-O. E.pdf','',1,'','','','',''),(2544,'82','Load Capacity and Failure Modes of Axially and Eccentrically Loaded Thin-Walled Steel Tubular Slender Columns Filled with Concrete','Alireza Bahrami and Ali Mahmoudi Kouhi','75 Load Capacity and Failure Modes of Axially and Eccentrically Loaded Thin-Walled Steel Tubular Slender Columns Filled with Concrete-3245-Alireza Bahrami.pdf','',1,'','','','',''),(2545,'82','Effects of Farmersâ€™ Socio-economic characteristics on their Decision to Adopt ICT in Agriculture: Empirical Evidence from Rural Punjab, Pakistan','Abdur Rehman Shahzad, Saira Akhtar, Farooq Tanwir and Khalid Mahmood Ch','76 Effects of Farmersâ€™ Socio-economic characteristics on their Decision to Adopt ICT in Agriculture Empirical Evidence from Rural Punjab, Pakistan-3361-Abdur Rehman Shahzad.pdf','',1,'','','','',''),(2546,'82','Intelligent System for Classification of Residential Areas in Forest','Shagufta Naz, Ghulam Ali Mallah, Maqsood Ali Solangi, Jamil Ahmed Chandio and Muhammad Bux Soomro','77 Intelligent System for Classification of Residential Areas in Forest-3381.pdf','',1,'','','','',''),(2547,'82','Non-Linear Mathematical Modelling for Quarter Car Suspension Model','Biniyam Ayele Abebe, Johnson Santhosh, Abdussalam Ali Ahmed, P. Murugan and N. Ashok','78 Non-Linear Mathematical Modelling for Quarter Car Suspension Model-3353- Biniyam Ayele Abebe.pdf','',1,'','','','',''),(2548,'82','Statistical Analysis and Bias Correction of GSMaP Satellite Rainfall Data for Flash Floods Modelling over the Basin of Ravi River, Pakistan','Abdullah, Habib-Ur-Rehman and M. Ali Mirza','79 Statistical Analysis and Bias Correction of GSMaP Satellite Rainfall Data for Flash Floods Modelling over the Basin of Ravi River, Pakistan-3374-Abdullah _1_.pdf','',1,'','','','',''),(2549,'82','Motivating Path between Security and Privacy Factors on the Actual use of Mobile Government Applications in Jordan ','Ala\'a Saeb Al-Sherideh and Roesnita Ismail','80 Motivating Path between Security and Privacy Factors on the Actual use of Mobile Government Applications in Jordan-3365- Ala\'a Saeb Al-Sherideh.pdf','',1,'','','','',''),(2551,'82','Using FrameNet to Improve Question Answering System Performance','Ibrahim Mahmoud Ibrahim Alturani and Mohd Pouzi Hamzah','81 Using FrameNet to Improve Question Answering System Performance-3327-Ibrahim Mahmoud Ibrahim Alturani.pdf','',1,'','','','',''),(2552,'82','New Formulation Method for Concrete Sand made with Dune Sand and Fillers from Limestone and Marble Industry by Product in Northern Borders Region of Saudi Arabia','Tarek Salem Abdennaji, NÃ©jib Ben Jamaa, Imen Kallel Kammoun and Mouhamed Moustafa Ismail','82 New Formulation Method for Concrete Sand made with Dune Sand and Fillers from Limestone and Marble Industry by Product in Northern Borders Region of Saudi Arabia-3334-CE-TAREK SALEM ABDENNAJI.pdf','',1,'','','','',''),(2553,'82','Mass Energy Transfer Coefficients for the Calculation of Air Kerma in Tissues','Olaseni M. Bello, Wan Muhamad S. Wan Hassan and Norehan M. Nor','83 Mass Energy Transfer Coefficients for the Calculation of Air Kerma in Tissues-3271- Olaseni Bello.pdf','',1,'','','','',''),(2554,'82','Design for Six Sigma (DFSS) Activity Implementation','Yi-Chan Chung','84 Design for Six Sigma _DFSS_ Activity Implementation-3332-MBA-Yi-Chan Chung.pdf','',1,'','','','',''),(2555,'82','The Analysis of Environmental Support in the Development Tourism at Nipa-Nipa Great Forest Park','Alamsyah Flamin, Ngakan Putu Oka, Amran Achmad and Supratman','85 The Analysis of Environmental Support in the Development Tourism at Nipa-Nipa Great Forest Park-3383-Alamsyah Flamin.pdf','',1,'','','','',''),(2556,'82','Evaluation of the Implementation of Government Programs in Accelerating the Development of Pregnant Beef Cattle in terms of Farmer Empowerment Stages','Tanri, G.R., S.T. Rohani, S.N. Sirajuddin, M. Hatta and M. Darwis','86 Evaluation of the Implementation of Government Programs in Accelerating the Development of Pregnant Beef Cattle in terms of Farmer Empowerment Stages-3385-Tanri G.pdf','',1,'','','','',''),(2557,'82','Type of Transaction Costs to Different Business Scales on Nomadic Duck Breeding','Sitti Nurani Sirajuddin, Aslina Asnawi, St. Rohani, Kasmiyati Kasim, Ilham Rasyid, Mahyuddin Rahman and Abdel Razzaq Al-Tawaha','87 Type of Transaction Costs to Different Business Scales on Nomadic Duck Breeding-3384- Sitti Nurani Sirajuddin.pdf','',1,'','','','',''),(2558,'82','A Secured Architecture for Transactions in Micro E-Commerce using QR scan, e-Wallet Payment Applications with Adaptation of Blockchain','Ali Waqas, Md. Hassam Yousaf, Saima Siraj, Usman Ahmed, Vidyasagar S.D., Hemant J. Shinde and Addepalli Lavanya','88 A Secured Architecture for Transactions in Micro E-Commerce using QR scan, e-Wallet Payment Applications with Adaptation of Blockchain-3390-Addepalli Lavanya.pdf','',1,'','','','',''),(2559,'82','Impact of Customer Relationship Management and its Significance in Rural Banking (A Case Study of Himachal Pradesh Gramin Bank)','N.N. Sharma and Akhil Gautam','89 Impact of Customer Relationship Management and its Significance in Rural Banking _A Case Study of Himachal Pradesh Gramin Bank_-Akhil Gautam.pdf','',1,'','','','',''),(2560,'82','Identification of Buffalo Purchases in Bone District, South Sulawesi Province, Indonesia to meet the needs of the Toraja Traditional Party','Ilham Rasyid, Sitti Nurani Sirajuddin, Veronica Sri Lestari and Nirwana','90 Identification of Buffalo Purchases in Bone District, South Sulawesi Province, Indonesia to meet the needs of the Toraja Traditional Party-Sitti Nurani Sirajuddin.pdf','',1,'','','','',''),(2561,'82','Improving Cooling Capacity of HVAC System, A Case Study to Determine Efficient and Cost-Effective Opportunities at Pharma Company','Muhammad Faisal, Shakeel Ahmed Shaikh, Saifullah Samo and Khanji Harijan','91 Improving Cooling Capacity of HVAC System, A Case Study to Determine Efficient and Cost-Effective Opportunities at Pharma Company-3366- Muhammad Faisal.pdf','',1,'','','','',''),(2562,'82','The Mediating Role of Psychological Contract Breach In relation to Abusive Supervision and Work Withdrawal Intention','Seemab Abid, Heejab Abid, Noreen Shakoor, Bashir Ahamed Kaker and Ambreen Masood','92 The Mediating Role of Psychological Contract Breach In relation to Abusive Supervision and Work Withdrawal Intention-3400- Seemab Abid.pdf','',1,'','','','',''),(2563,'82','Implementing Augmented Reality in Learning Bakery for Autism Learner','Che Ku Nuraini Che Ku Mohd, Faaizah Shahbodin, Nur Alya Sahira Muhamad Khidir, Munir and Lala Septem Riza\r\n','93 Implementing Augmented Reality in Learning Bakery for Autism Learner-3352-Faaizah Shahbodin.pdf','',1,'','','','',''),(2564,'82','Design and Implementation of Low-cost Flexible Intubation Box','Hundessa Daba Nemomssa and K. Hakkins Raj','94 Design and Implementation of Low-cost Flexible Intubation Box-3395-Hundessa Daba Nemomssa.pdf','',1,'','','','',''),(2565,'82','Horizontal Well in an Infinite Reservoir with Top Gas Cap','J.O. Oloro and U.K. Okpeki','95 Horizontal Well in an Infinite Reservoir with Top Gas Cap-3409-J.O.pdf','',1,'','','','',''),(2566,'82','Effect of different Storage time on External and Internal Characteristics of Eggs of Hen (Gallus Gallus Domesticus)','Muhammad Hashim Khan, Tayyaba Shan, Fozia, Najeeb Ullah Mandokhail, Saghir Imdad, Yasir Ihtesham, Irum Binyamin, Waqas Ahmad and Saira Naz','96 Effect of different Storage time on External and Internal Characteristics of Eggs of Hen _Gallus Gallus Domesticus_-3404- Muhammad Hashim Khan.pdf','',1,'','','','',''),(2567,'82','Seasonal Variations in Diversity and Distribution of Avian Fauna in Trimmu Barrage at District Jhang Punjab, Pakistan','Muhammad Hashim Khan, Mehtab Alam, Fozia, Atta Ur Rehman, Yasir Ihtesham, Saghir Imdad Hassan, Wasif Ullah, Moniba Zahid Mahmood and Saira Naz','97 Seasonal Variations in Diversity and Distribution of Avian Fauna in Trimmu Barrage at District Jhang Punjab, Pakistan-3405-Muhammad Hashim Khan.pdf','',1,'','','','',''),(2568,'82','Improve the Batting Skills of Cricketers for Fast Pitch Conditions Through an Innovative Ball Projecting Platform','DKA Induranga, KGKW Wickramasinghe, HAJCL Perera, GDKV Maduwantha, HDCN Gunawardena, PP Weekrakkodi and KR Koswattage','98 Improve the Batting Skills of Cricketers for Fast Pitch Conditions Through an Innovative Ball Projecting Platform-3417-DKA Induranga.pdf','',1,'','','','',''),(2569,'85','Technology advancements in Educational Institutions amid COVID19 Pandemic: An Overview','Manmohan Singh','6 Technology advancements in Educational Institutions amid COVID19 Pandemic An Overview-1265-Manmohan Singh.pdf','',1,'','','','',''),(2570,'85','A New Oligospirostanoside-Spirostanol Saponin from Agave vera-cruz Mill. Leaves','N.K. Thakur','7 A New Oligospirostanoside-Spirostanol Saponin from Agave vera-cruz Mill. Leaves-1255- N.K.pdf','',1,'','','','',''),(2572,'82','Wadi Ziqlab Revisited: Estimation of Soil Loss and Prioritization of a Mountainous Watershed (Northern Jordan) Using RUSLE and GIS','Samer Nawaiseh','99 Wadi Ziqlab Revisited Estimation of Soil Loss and Prioritization of a Mountainous Watershed _Northern Jordan_ Using RUSLE and GIS-3419- Samer Nawaiseh.pdf','',1,'','','','',''),(2573,'82','Blockchain-based Security Measure for Cloud-based Healthcare System','Dojanah â€œMohammad Kadriâ€ Bader','100 Blockchain-based Security Measure for Cloud-based Healthcare System-3432- Dojanah Mohammad Kadri Bader.pdf','',1,'','','','',''),(2574,'84','Anise Oil : Effective as Post-Harvest Botanical Fungicide in the Management of Pink Mould of Apples caused by Trichothecium roseum','Deepti Srivastava','12 Anise Oil Effective as Post-Harvest Botanical Fungicide in the Management of Pink Mould of Apples caused by Trichothecium roseum-635-Deepti Srivastava.pdf','',1,'Malus sylvestris (L) Mill. also known as Apple belonging to family Rosaceae. The fruit is pome, where the actual fruit is enclosed by fleshy edible part of the thalamus. Around 20 lakh tones of Apple is produced in India each year. The highest apple producing states of India are Jammu & Kashmir, Himachal Pradesh, Uttrakhand and Arunanchal Pradesh. Apples are good source of fiber and vit. C and they are less in calories. They are devoid of fat or cholesterol and have only few amount of sodium. Apples are rich in polyphenols and these work as antioxidant. Apple lowers the risk of asthma and alzheimerâ€™s disease. They are helpful in weight loss, good for bones, lungs function and act as gastrointestinal shield.\r\nThe current research was conducted to analyze the assessment of fungal pathogens related to apple fruit rot and their control. Samples of fruits were collected from different fruit markets Gorakhpur. Total 24 fruit rotting fungi were found to be related to apple fruits. Rotting','Fruits, rotting, pathogenicity, Dynamics of rotting, volatile oil, fungitoxicity, MIC.','During storage succulent part of fruits are affected by many fruit rotting micro organisms, among them fungi form the main group. Because of high moisture and nutrient, they tends to decay, as they mature. This may be due to mechanical injury or physiological changes in the host tissues, which make them more suitable substrate for speedy development of the microorganisms. Due to mechanical and physiological injuries during harvesting and marketing, microorganism enters into fruits and cause major losses in fresh fruits.\r\nFruits are spoiled by fungi due to their low pH and cause rot disease. Some fungi also produced mycotoxins which are harmful for human health, when they consume spoiled or contaminated fruits (Phillips 1984; Moss 2002). \r\nThe current paper pronounces the rot disease of Malus sylvestris (L) Mill. caused by pink mould Trichothecium roseum Pers. Link. Ex. during storage and their effect on rotting dynamics, pathogenicity test and loss in weight. The paper also describes f','-','Anise Oil : Effective as Post-Harvest Botanical Fungicide in the Management of Pink Mould of Apples caused by Trichothecium roseum. Biological Forum â€“ An International Journal, 12(2): 79-83.'),(2575,'90','One Way Fluid-structure Interaction Analysis of Vertical Axis Hydrokinetic Turbine','Muhammad Jurial Sangi, Saifullah Samo, Shakil Ahmed Shaikh, Intizar Ali and Tanweer Hussain','4 One Way Fluid-structure Interaction Analysis of Vertical Axis Hydrokinetic Turbine-3447-ME-Saifullah Samo.pdf','',1,'','','','',''),(2576,'82','Social Media and Spreading the News of Covid-19 Pandemic in the Arab World','Hussein Khalifa Hassan Khalifa, Sherif A. Badran, Mujeeb Saif Mohsen Al-Absy and Qais Ahmed Almaamari','101 Social Media and Spreading the News of Covid-19 Pandemic in the Arab World-3371-Hussein Khalifa.pdf','',1,'','','','',''),(2577,'89','Lonavalomyces - A New Anamorphic Ascomycetes Genus reported from Lonavala, Western Ghats of India.','Rashmi Dubey','A New Anamorphic Ascomycetes.pdf','',1,'','','','',''),(2578,'82','Numerical Simulations of Water Transfer in Clayey Soil Column Considering Cracks Development','Mabrouk A., Louati F., Jamei M. and Zenzri H.','102 Numerical Simulations of Water Transfer in Clayey Soil Column Considering Cracks Development-3398-CE-Mabrouk A.pdf','',1,'','','','',''),(2579,'82','Comparative Analysis of the Awareness of the Cervical Cancer in the UAE Among Working Women, Female Players, and Household Ladies','Edyta Skibinska, Leonardo Jose Mataruna-Dos-Santos and Muhammad Azeem','103 Comparative Analysis of the Awareness of the Cervical Cancer in the UAE Among Working Women, Female Players, and Household Ladies-3338- Leonardo Jose Mataruna-Dos-Santos.pdf','',1,'','','','',''),(2582,'90','Performance of RDF Library of Java, C# and Python on Large RDF Models','Mustafa Ali Bamboat , Abdul Hafeez Khan and Asif Wagan','Performance of RDF Library.pdf','',1,'','','','',''),(2583,'90','Fuzzy Matrix Approach to Study the Maximum Age Group of Stressed Students Studying in Higher Education','Iftikhar Husain and Aleem Ali','6 Fuzzy Matrix Approach to Study the Maximum Age Group of Stressed Students Studying in Higher Education-3341-Aleem Ali.pdf','',1,'','','','',''),(2584,'90','E-Health Application for Kids','Irum Naz Sodhar, Abdul Hafeez Buller, Dua Noor Iqra Memon, Anam Naz Sodhar and Azeem Ayaz Mirani','7 E-Health Application for Kids-3465-IT-Irum Naz Sodhar.pdf','',1,'','','','',''),(2585,'92','Phyto-diversity Assessment of Nalanda Forest Division of Bihar','A. Chandra, H. B. Naithani, P.K. Verma, J. Saxena, S. Kishwan and R. Saini','1 Phyto-diversity Assessment of Nalanda Forest Division of Bihar 651-A.pdf','',1,'Phyto-sociological study of Nalanda forest division of Bihar was carried out. Quantitative parameters such as density, frequency, IVI and different diversity indices were estimated. Highest tree density (T ha-1) was reported for Jamuni site (980) followed by Amjhar sub-beat (910) and Ghora Katora beat (630). Highest tree species richness (SR) was reported for Jamuni site (38 spp.) followed by Amjhar Sub-beat (29 spp.) and Ghora Katora Beat (18 spp.). Species richness of shrubby and herbaceous layer was also reported highest for the Jamuni site. Highest IVI value of tree layer for Amjhar Sub-beat site, Jamuni and Ghora Katoria site were 59.84 (Shorea robusta), 36.65 (Boswellia serrata) and 39.22 (Ficus mollis) respectively. Highest diversity index of tree layer, shrubby layer and herbaceous layers was estimated for Jamuni site (3.254), Ghora Katora Beat (2.408) and Jamuni (2.969) respectively. It reveals from the study that Jamuni site is more diverse site in the','Important Value Index, Diversity index, Species richness, Evenness.','Phyto-sociological study of Nalanda forest division of Bihar was carried out. Quantitative parameters such as density, frequency, IVI and different diversity indices were estimated. Highest tree density (T ha-1) was reported for Jamuni site (980) followed by Amjhar sub-beat (910) and Ghora Katora beat (630). Highest tree species richness (SR) was reported for Jamuni site (38 spp.) followed by Amjhar Sub-beat (29 spp.) and Ghora Katora Beat (18 spp.). Species richness of shrubby and herbaceous layer was also reported highest for the Jamuni site. Highest IVI value of tree layer for Amjhar Sub-beat site, Jamuni and Ghora Katoria site were 59.84 (Shorea robusta), 36.65 (Boswellia serrata) and 39.22 (Ficus mollis) respectively. Highest diversity index of tree layer, shrubby layer and herbaceous layers was estimated for Jamuni site (3.254), Ghora Katora Beat (2.408) and Jamuni (2.969) respectively. It reveals from the study that Jamuni site is more diverse site in the','-','Chandra, A., Naithani, H. B., Verma, P. K., Saxena, J., Kishwan, S. and Saini, R. (2021). Phyto-diversity Assessment of Nalanda Forest Division of Bihar. Biological Forum â€“ An International Journal, 13(1): 01-09.'),(2586,'82','The Role of Social Media in Destination Marketing: A Case Study of Galiyat Region in Pakistan','Adeel Jalal Malik, Mehar Naseeb, Adnan Ahmad Dogar, Ikram Shah and Syed Wajahat Ali','104 The Role of Social Media in Destination Marketing A Case Study of Galiyat Region in Pakistan-3460- Adeel Jalal Malik.pdf','',1,'','','','',''),(2587,'93','A Study on Literary Works of R. K. Narayanâ€™s the Guide: Novel Approach','Muneer Shamee','1 A Study on Literary Works of R. K. Narayan’s the Guide Novel Approach MUNEER SHAMEE.pdf','',1,'R. K. Narayan is an inseparable virtuoso among the pioneer creators of the twentieth century Indian English Fiction. The creative locale, MALGUDI is a lot of equivalent to a fundamental legend of his fiction. His contrasted and expansive works which are the consequence of veritable, rich experiences have almost tried all the pieces of life [1]. The gigantic show of Copious Characters, hitting and predictable with life improves his insightful responsibility. Regardless of the way that he has depicted reality in authentic rhythm, he, at the end of the day, has remained impeccable and detaches, basically holding the mirror up to the nature. He never endeavored to drive his own specific manner of reasoning or addressing. This paper is the unassuming undertaking to consider Narayan\'s Fiction in short close by his decent novel THE GUIDE and its customary and social methodologies. qualities. This paper momentarily acquaints the perusers with Indo-Anglian writing causing them to see how Indian writing in English has a strong convention behind it and activities R.K. Narayan not just as quite possibly the most extraordinary of the Indian writers writing in English yet in addition the most imaginative of the Indian journalists representing the huge adaptability and flexibility of English. It conveniently analysts how Narayan at his best is a careful recorder of the incongruities of human existence and an intense spectator of the prospects of the conventional, utilizing basic exposition style of portrayals with an attention on different subjects and thoughts from the purpose of human measurement. ','Novel, Writer, R.K. Narayanan, semiotics and the guide, traditional and social approach, literarily\r\nwords, etc.','The Hindu society being conventional and fatalistic, the social qualities they appreciate can\'t be something else.\r\nThey are a Divine being dreading people. For whatever, they do, they hurl themselves frail before God. Their\r\nprosperity and bafflement bliss and sufferings are largely their assessment as God\'s Invocation. Hindu\'s are so\r\nrelentless about the standard contemplations that they hardly withdraw the social structure they have advanced from\r\na long time ago. The social scene shows a regretted picture when we run over such cases like Margayya will divine\r\nanimals on Badri Slopes for the aggregated fruitlessness of his life partner. Daisy (The painter of Signs) necessities\r\nto make a troublesome battle for the devastation of such disasters from the general populace. It is a pity that the\r\nIndians even today have wretchedly neglect to make authentic point of view which is the need crucial. It is well-near\r\nunending for individuals to possibly shape their fate, overhaul the individual satisfaction and give the central\r\nnecessities to individuals and an open doorway for doing creative things in life beside if they are submerged with\r\nscience and in the use of most recent degrees of progress. For, science mixes the propensity to enquire and check for\r\ntruth. It engages one to watch and hones one\'s affirmation. Such a mentality would firmly help comprehend a social\r\nchange removing from its surface the sign of show that has kept Indians in its stunning handle. Tremendous amounts\r\nof the social qualities kept up in good old occasions, are as of now outworn and scornful in the creating events, and\r\nare to be disposed of once for all [9].\r\nAccordingly the assessment uncovers on maybe the best specialist, a broadly acclaimed one of a kind figure of the\r\ntwentieth century, developing father of Indian English fiction - R.K. Narayan, his fiction regulated moved\r\nassessments of Indian life, custom, dreams and reality, ethos portrayed through his phenomenal individual limit. The\r\nspecialist has isolated expert\'s remarks on his best accomplishments, for example, achieving a friendliness between\r\n\"the Indian extensive, joining framework and air\" and his books dharma and karma zeroing in fundamentally on\r\nhow the legends seek after the huge mission for self-certification and self-perception. Gandhian considered\r\ncharacter, considered marriage, Indian reasoning, values, characters religion, odd thought, dreams, shows ladies\r\nhuman condition and battles, managerial issues, vainglorious reality, exorbitantly ordinary, standard living in India\r\nhuman relationship, east-west topic, young people mental stability of life and journey for character are poor down in\r\nthis part.','[1]. Narayan, R.K. (1986). The Guide. London: Metheun& Co., 1958. Narayan, R.K. My Days. New Delhi: Orient\r\nAper Backs Ltd..\r\n[2]. Sharan, N.N.(1993). A Critical Study of the Novels of Narayan. New Delhi: Classical publishing Co.,\r\n[3]. Narayan R.K. (1981). The Dark Room Delhi: Orient Paperback, p. 75.\r\n[4]. Mr. Sampath (1971). Narayan R.K. (Delhi: Hindi Pocket Books; 274 (4).\r\n[5]. Narayan R. K. (1958). The Guide (Mysore: Indian Thought Publication, p. 152.\r\n\r\n[6]. Goyal, Bhagwat S. (1981). \"From Picaroto Pilgrim: A Perspective on R. K. Narayan\'s \"The Guide.\" Indo-\r\nEnglish Literature.\" Ed. K. K. Sharma. Ghaziabad: VimalPrakashan, pp. 127-135.\r\n\r\n[7]. Narasimhaiah, C. D.: \"R. K. Narayan\'s the Guide.\" Aspects of Indian Writing in English.. M. K. Naik (1979).\r\nEd. Madras: The Macmillan Company of India Ltd., pp. 172-198.\r\n[8]. Narayan, R. K ,(2006). The Guide, Chennai: Indian Thought Publications,.\r\n[9]. Paranjape, Makarand (2003). \"The Reluctant Guru\": R. K. Narayan and The Guide.\" South Asian Review. 24.2:\r\npp. 170-186.\r\n[10]. Singha, U. P. (1988). \"Patterns of Myth and Reality in \"The Guide\": Complex Craft of Fiction.\" Patterns of\r\nMyth and Reality.\r\n[11]. A Study in R. K. Narayan\'s Novels. By U. P. Singha. Delhi: Sandarbh Publishers, pp. 70-94.\r\n[12]. Naik M. K. (1982). A History Of Indian English Literature, New Delhi, Sahitya Academy, p.162 2.\r\n[13].Azam, S.M. Rafique, from Forward, R. K. Narayan and the Inhabitants of Malgudi by: Mohammad EjazAlam,\r\nRajat Publications, New Delhi,p.vi\r\n[14]. H. Raizada (1956). R. K. Narayan, ‘A Critical Study Of His Works, New Delhi: Young Asia Publication, p.1 4\r\n[15]. Iynger K. R. Srinivas (1989). Indian Writing In English, Culcutta, Asia Publishing House,\r\n[16]. Krishnan S. (1992). (ed.) Malgudi Landscape: The Best of R. K. Narayan Penguin Books,New Delhi,\r\n[17]. Agnihotri, G.N. (2009). Indian Life and Problems in the Novels of Mulk Raj Anand, Raja Rao, and R.K.\r\nNarayan,Meerut (India) 7. Http:/en-wikipedia.org/ wiki:file: R.K.Narayan.Jpg.','A Study on Literary Works of R. K. Narayan’s the Guide: Novel Approach'),(2588,'90','Re-description of Tenuitarsus orientalis Kevan, 1959 (Pyrgomorphidae: Orthoptera) from Pakistan','Kousar Parveen Memon, Waheed Ali Panhwar and Abdul Manan Shaikh','8 Re-description of Tenuitarsus orientalis Kevan, 1959 _Pyrgomorphidae Orthoptera_ from Pakistan-3470-Waheed Ali Panhwar.pdf','',1,'','','','',''),(2589,'92','Financial Performance of Indian Fertilizer Industry - A Comparative Evaluation of Private, Public and Cooperative Sector Companies','S. Sowmiyaa, S. Moghana Lavanya, K. Mahendran and V. Geethalakshmi','2 Financial Performance of Indian Fertilizer Industry - A Comparative Evaluation of Private, Public and Cooperative Sector Companies-655-S.pdf','',1,'Fertilizer Industry plays a prominent role in the Indian Agriculture and the economy. Indian food production has soared from 175 MT in 2002 â€“ 2003 to 296 MT in 2019 â€“ 2020 (Casey, 2020). With only a marginal increase in arable lands, the record productions are made possible with operational efficiency at the farm level. The judicial application of fertilizers has proven to increase the crop productivity worldwide. Reasons like residual effects, reduced soil fertility, imbalanced use of fertilizers, increased demand for organic products, etc., remain unwavering challenges to the industry. However, it has also opened up opportunities for innovations and segments like bio-fertilizers has seen an increasing demand trend over recent years. The article aims to analyse the financial performance of the industry as a whole, an under-explored area of study. The analysis takes into account private, public companies and cooperatives for the period of 2016-2020. The five-year average shows that','Financial performance, Fertilizer industry, Altman Z Score, Performance Analysis.','According to the findings of the study, the fertilizer industry as a whole is in financially distress state. Going by the ownership pattern, private companies exercised better financial operations comparatively. The study also found that the companies found during the 1960s performed better financially compared to that were the companies established during later periods. Madras Fertilizers Limited fared poorly and the best performing company was Fertilizers and Chemicals Travancore Ltd. Altman Model is a simple yet profound model to understand the financial\r\nperformance of the companies. The fertilizer industry is predicted to have a CAGR of 11.9% during 2020-2025. Growing population, increased demand, changing customer preferences etc acted as a stimulus to boost fertilizer production in India. Environmental and residual effects of chemical fertilizers have been realized and a shift has been seen from chemical based fertilizers to organic bio based fertilizers. This o','-','Sowmiyaa, S., Lavanya, S. M., Mahendran, K. and Geethalakshmi, V. (2021). Financial Performance of Indian Fertilizer Industry - A Comparative Evaluation of Private, Public and Cooperative Sector Companies. Biological Forum â€“ An International Journal, '),(2590,'33','Consumer Buying Behaviour towards Organised and Unorganised Retail Stores in Jalandhar and Ludhiana Cities ','Dr. Nancee','43 Consumer Buying Behaviour towards Organised and Unorganised Retail Stores in Jalandhar and Ludhiana Cities Dr.pdf','',1,'','','','',''),(2591,'94','Traditional to Smart Microgrid Infrastructure in context to Indian\r\nPower Sector ','Ayan Banik and Anubrata Sengupta\r\n','1 Traditional to Smart Microgrid Infrastructure in context to Indian Power Sector -1105-Ayan Banik.pdf','',1,'','','','',''),(2592,'92','Diversity and Distribution of Bracket Fungi in Mt. Kilakiron, Bukidnon, Philippines','Mc Arthur L. CABABAN, Aprille Kaye O. JARANILLA, Mariane C. BASTATAS, Chazzel Feel C. SALVANE and Uzziel C. TOLDO','3 Diversity and Distribution of Bracket Fungi in Mt. Kilakiron, Bukidnon, Philippines Aprille Kaye O. Jaranilla 639.pdf','',1,'Fungi have a lot of important function in the bionetwork resembling to decomposition and even nutrient cycling with respect to its symbiotic relationships with trees and other plants. This study aimed to assess the diversity and distribution of bracket fungi in Mt. Kilakiron, Portulin, Pangantucan, Bukidnon. Thus, floristic survey was conducted in one of the mountain of Mindanao to provide information as to what and how many species of bracket fungi are present in Mt. Kilakioron, Bukidnon, Philippines. 40 total species belonging to 17 genera and 5 family was collected and assessed. 12 individuals of Trametes versicolor were observe which favors dwellings with low temperature and high altitude are. Additionally, study revealed that most types of bracket fungi initiate in the site are decomposers and saprophytic in nature which contributes a lot in the process of putrefaction. The species of bracket fungi in Mt. Kilakiron clearly shows abundant and provides a large contribution to the e','Assessment, bracket fungi, distribution, diversity, morphology ','The study assessed the distribution of bracket fungi in Mt. Kilakiron, Portulin, Pangantucan, Bukidnon. There were 40 species of bracket fungi identified belonging to15genera. The genera Trametes has the most species with six species, followed by both the Ganoderma and Microporus with five species, then Fomes and Stereum with four species, Fomitopsis with three species, and Phellinus with two species. The species diversity was highest in Plot 3 with H = 1.259 followed by Plot with H = 1.199 and the least is Plot with H = 1.125. The study revealed that most types of bracket fungi found in the site are decomposers and saprophytic in nature. It is highly observable that bracket fungi with itsentire species, contributes a lot in the process of decomposition and nutrient cycling in the forest floor e.g. dead and living trees and logs. Moreover, by killing and decomposing trees, the root-rot polypore creates an opening in forest stands thus results to an increase in biodiversity of the fo','-','Mc Arthur L. CABABAN, Aprille Kaye O. JARANILLA, Mariane C. BASTATAS, Chazzel Feel C. SALVANE and Uzziel C. TOLDO (2021). Diversity and Distribution of Bracket Fungi in Mt. Kilakiron, Bukidnon, Philippines. Biological Forum â€“ An International Journal, '),(2596,'44','A Survey on Different Techniques of Discrete Cosine Transform and Discrete Wavelet Transform in Image Compression\r\n\r\n','Ankit Barskar','9 A Survey on Different Techniques of Discrete Cosine Transform and Discrete Wavelet Transform in Image Compression 1108-Ankit Barskar.pdf','',1,'','','','',''),(2598,'90','Experimental Study of Solar Chimney Cooled 40Wp Solar PV Panel','U.K. Soni, S.K. Soni and S.R. Awasthi','9 Experimental Study of Solar Chimney Cooled 40Wp Solar PV Panel 3454- S K Soni.pdf','',1,'','','','',''),(2599,'90','Î±-Amylase, L-Asparaginase and Arginase Enzymes Production by Fungi Isolated from Rice Stored under Environmental Condition in Middle Egypt','Marwa Mohammed Mahgoub Idres, Ahmed Mohammed Moharram, Maged Sayed Ahmed, \r\nOmar Abd â€“Ellatif Omar and Mariam Abd-Elkhalek Marzouk and Manal Mohammed Yasser','10 a-Amylase, L-Asparaginase and Arginase Enzymes Production by Fungi Isolated from Rice Stored under Environmental Condition in Middle Egypt 3283-Marwa Mohammed.pdf','',1,'','','','',''),(2600,'90','Study on the Concentration of Trace and Heavy Elements in Milk, Maize and Water Samples from Various Regions of Kotli Azad Jammu and Kashmir','M. Ibrahim, M. Saleem and Nasira Wahab','11 Study on the Concentration of Trace and Heavy Elements in Milk, Maize and Water Samples from Various Regions of Kotli Azad Jammu and Kashmir 3466-CH-M.pdf','',1,'','','','',''),(2601,'90','Experimental Analysis of Ground Coupled Heat Exchange Systems: Temperature Steadiness of Ground and its Benefits','Suresh Kumar Soni','12 Experimental Analysis of Ground Coupled Heat Exchange Systems Temperature Steadiness of Ground and its Benefits SK Soni 3434.pdf','',1,'','','','',''),(2602,'90','Matrix Modification of RSA Public Key Cryptosystem and its Variant','S.C. Gupta and Manju Sanghi','13 Matrix Modification of RSA Public Key Cryptosystem and its Variant Manju Sanghi 3513.pdf','',1,'','','','',''),(2603,'90','Fungicide efficacy for control of Mango Powdery Mildew caused by Oidium mangiferae','Abdul Qayoom Majeedano, Absar Mithal Jiskani, Muhammad Ibrahim Khaskheli, Muhammad Mithal Jiskani, Tariq Majidano and Sayed Sajjad Ali Shah','14 Fungicide efficacy for control of Mango Powdery Mildew caused by Oidium mangiferae Abdul Qayoom Majeedano 3458.pdf','',1,'','','','',''),(2604,'39','Self Esteem and Academic Achievement: A Study of Special Children in Rural Kashmir (J&K) India','Shafia Nazir','28 Self Esteem and Academic Achievement A Study of Special Children in Rural Kashmir _J&K_ India Shafia Nazir 1197.pdf','',1,'','','','',''),(2607,'90','Stabilization of Road Subgrade Soil Using Recycled Aggregates','S. Datta and S. A. Mofiz','15 Stabilization of Road Subgrade Soil Using Recycled Aggregates CE-S.pdf','',1,'','','','',''),(2608,'90','Prime Labeling of Cyclotic Graph and Union of Cyclotic Graphs','N. P. Shrimali and S. K. Singh','16 Prime Labeling of Cyclotic Graph and Union of Cyclotic Graphs N. P 2761.pdf','',1,'','','','',''),(2609,'90','Modeling Fire Effect of Reinforced Recycled Aggregate Concrete Beams by Regression Analysis','Abdul Hafeez Buller, Bashir Ahmed Memon, Abdul Salam Buller and Irum Naz Sodhar','17 Modeling Fire Effect of Reinforced Recycled Aggregate Concrete Beams by Regression Analysis Abdul Hafeez Buller 3489.pdf','',1,'','','','',''),(2610,'39','Consumerâ€™s Awareness Regarding Foreign Brands','Dr. Nancee','29 Consumerâ€™s Awareness Regarding Foreign Brands DR NANCEE 1195.pdf','',1,'','','','',''),(2611,'90','Ground Beetles (Coleoptera: Carabidae) Collected from Different Ecological Zones of Sukkur Sindh-Pakistan with New Records ','Farhan Ali Soomro, Waheed Ali Panhwar*, Abdul Manan Shaikh, Khadim Hussain Memon, Zaib Un Nisa Memon, Safdar Ali Ujjan and Javed Ahmed Ujan','18 Ground Beetles _Coleoptera Carabidae_ Collected from Different Ecological Zones of Sukkur Sindh-Pakistan with New Records Waheed Ali Panhwar 3482.pdf','',1,'','','','',''),(2612,'90','Text Analyzing Algorithm for Speech Synthesizer of Uzbek Language','Bakhtiyor Akmuradov, Utkir Khamdamov and Djamshid Sultanov','19 Text Analyzing Algorithm for Speech Synthesizer of Uzbek Language Bakhtiyor Akmuradov 3473.pdf','',1,'','','','',''),(2613,'90','A Sustainable Framework for Preventing IoT Systems from Zero Day DDoS Attacks by Machine Learning','Mubashir Ali, Ayesha Siddique, Aamir Hussain, Farhad Hassan, Amir Ijaz and Aneela Mehmood','20 A Sustainable Framework for Preventing IoT Systems from Zero Day DDoS Attacks by Machine Learning Mubashir Ali 3483.pdf','',1,'','','','',''),(2614,'90','Current Status of Classification Method for Mapping Application: A Review','S.N. Abd Mukti and K.N. Tahar','21 Current Status of Classification Method for Mapping Application A Review K.N.pdf','',1,'','','','',''),(2615,'90','Factors Influence the Service Quality in Hypermarket','Yi-Chan Chung, Shu-Fang Lin and Wei-Lun Chung','22 Factors Influence the Service Quality in Hypermarket Yi-Chan Chung 3438.pdf','',1,'','','','',''),(2616,'92','Role of Clustered Regularly Interspaced Short Palindromic Repeats in Crop Improvement - A review','Sadu Yashwanth, Sri Sai Chaitanya and Mayur S. Darwankar','4 Role of Clustered Regularly Interspaced Short Palindromic Repeats in Crop Improvement - A review Sadu Yashwanth 654.pdf','',1,'Genome editing for desirable traits is one of the essential techniques for crop improvement. CRISPR/Cas mediated genome editing system is such a recently emerging plant breeding tool for crop improvement, which is a natural adaptive immune mechanism in most bacteria and archaea. A single guide RNA along with the suitable Cas protein molecule can be used for targeted gene editing to prevent gene expressions and to insert the desirable genes in targeted locations. This precise method can be used for studying plant functional genomics and enhancing morphological traits, quantity, quality, resistance to biotic and abiotic stress and to create genetic variability in both field and horticultural crops. CRISPR/Cas has been a practically successful mechanism in the field of genome editing technology. Here, we describe its origin and applications in crop improvement. However, CRISPR too has some limitations viz., designing highly specific guide RNA, a capable vector and fear of catastrophic mis','CRISPR/Cas, Crop improvement, Genome editing, sgRNA.','CRISPR/Cas is a magnificent tool which must be used along the conventional breeding methods for desirable results. It must be a part of conventional methods but not an alternative. It can be used to improve the desirable characters and to create desirable variation. This precise tool helps to improvise the quantity, quality, resistance and tolerance to many biotic and abiotic stresses, storage ability, earliness and many other traits and crop improvement objectives. It also helps to decrease the hunger and malnutrition and can be considered as one of the best tools that contribute food security. It is a precise mutagenesis technique which have an important role in crop improvement and genome editing programmes.','-','Yashwanth, Sadu, Chaitanya, Sri Sai and Darwankar, Mayur S. (2021). Role of Clustered Regularly Interspaced Short Palindromic Repeats in Crop Improvement - A Review. Biological Forum â€“ An International Journal, 13(1): 26-29.'),(2617,'92','Mating behavior of Herpestes auropunctatus (Hodgson, 1836) (Carnivora: Herpestidae) in National Capital Territory of Delhi','Ritesh Joshi and Kanchan Puri','5 Mating behavior of Herpestes auropunctatus _Hodgson, 1836_ _Carnivora Herpestidae_ in National Capital Territory of Delhi Ritesh Joshi 650.pdf','',1,'This note reports on an observation, made on the mating behaviour of Herpestes auropunctatus in an urban park of the National Capital Territory of Delhi. Though, the species is protected in India, very less work has been carried out on its ecology, specifically on its breeding habits. Documenting such small behavior and responses of the native wild species in the green spaces would be of paramount importance in management and conservation of the urban ecosystems. ','Herpestes auropunctatus, mating behavior, north India, urban ecosystem','This note reports on an observation, made on the mating behaviour of Herpestes auropunctatus in an urban park of the National Capital Territory of Delhi. Though, the species is protected in India, very less work has been carried out on its ecology, specifically on its breeding habits. Documenting such small behavior and responses of the native wild species in the green spaces would be of paramount importance in management and conservation of the urban ecosystems. ','-','Joshi, R. and Puri, K. (2021). Mating behavior of Herpestes auropunctatus (Hodgson, 1836) (Carnivora: Herpestidae) in National Capital Territory of Delhi. Biological Forum â€“ An International Journal, 13(1): 30-32.'),(2618,'92','Sighting and Documentation of Butterflies and Moths (Lepidoptera: Insecta) from Urban Region of Jodhpur, Rajasthan, India','Lekhu Gehlot, Mohan Singh, Bharti Tanwar, Mahima Soni and Suman Bhadala','6 Sighting and Documentation of Butterflies and Moths _Lepidoptera Insecta_ from urban region of Jodhpur, Rajasthan, India Mohan Singh 647.pdf','',1,'In the present study a short communication carried out with sighting of butterflies and moths from urban region of Jodhpur. Study area included three sites; Near Kaylana Lake, Mandore Garden and Botanical Garden JNVU New Campus.\r\nThis exploration show the presence of Lepidopterans, represented by common families; Nymphalidae, Pieridae, Papilionidae, Lycaenidae of sub-order Rhopalocera and Erebidae, Sphingidae, Crambidae, Pyralidae, Saturniidae, Pterophoridae, Geometridae, Noctuidae of sub-order Heterocera. The exploration and identification yielded a total of 47 species of Lepidoptera including 28 species of Butterflies under 17 genera and 19 species of Moths under 18 genera.\r\n','Lepidoptera, Documentation, Photographic evidence, urban, Jodhpur','In the present study a short communication carried out with sighting of butterflies and moths from urban region of Jodhpur. Study area included three sites; Near Kaylana Lake, Mandore Garden and Botanical Garden JNVU New Campus.\r\nThis exploration show the presence of Lepidopterans, represented by common families; Nymphalidae, Pieridae, Papilionidae, Lycaenidae of sub-order Rhopalocera and Erebidae, Sphingidae, Crambidae, Pyralidae, Saturniidae, Pterophoridae, Geometridae, Noctuidae of sub-order Heterocera. The exploration and identification yielded a total of 47 species of Lepidoptera including 28 species of Butterflies under 17 genera and 19 species of Moths under 18 genera.\r\n','-','Gehlot, L., Singh, M., Tanwar, B., Soni, M. and Bhadala, S. (2021). Sighting and Documentation of Butterflies and Moths (Lepidoptera: Insecta) from urban region of Jodhpur, Rajasthan, India. Biological Forum â€“ An International Journal, 13(1): 33-38.'),(2619,'92','Potential of Lichens: A Review of Bioactive Compounds with\r\nBiological Activities\r\n\r\n','Monika Thakur and Hem Chander','7 Potential of Lichens A review of Bioactive compounds with Monika Thakur.pdf','',1,'Lichens are entities that are formed by the interaction of mycobiont as well as photobiont or blue-green algae through symbiosis. Lichen utilizes a wide range of bioactive molecules with several biological properties like antifungal, antibacterial, antitumor, antioxidant, antiherbivore, insecticidal, allelochemical, and antigenic action. These metabolites play a significant role in photoprotection towards extreme emission and it might be a promising antipyretic and analgesic drug applicant. The assets of lichens bioactive components make them worthy as well as possible therapeutic mediator. Lichen compounds play a key role in metal homeostasis as well as contamination resistance. During this domain, there seems to be a great need for research to explore the significance of lichens, which are a valuable substitute for many active substances with tremendous therapeutic value. The biological activities of bioactive molecules derived from lichens are described in this review.','Lichen, Secondary Metabolites, medicinal value, antioxidant.','Lichens, with different biological activities, represent an important source of bioactive compounds. There are currently over tens of thousands of bioactive derivatives found in lichens. Lichens are mycobiont as well as photobiont or blue green algae that are mutualistic species. A wide diversity of bioactive compounds is synthesized by lichen-forming fungi, some of which are different. A vast number of noteworthy biological properties such as antibacterial, antioxidant, antimicrobial, cytotoxic, inhibitory enzymes, anti-inflammatory, antiviral, immunomodulatory, are demonstrated by lichen bioactive compounds. In addition, the effects of lichen compounds make pharmaceuticals feasible for them. At the same moment, individuals must be assured that lichens are slow-growing species, as well as their existence might be threatened by the exploitation of their organic compounds. Nevertheless, advanced culture methods, as well as diverse growing conditions within aposymbiotically, generated my','-','Thakur, M. and Chander, H. (2021). Potential of Lichens: A Review of Bioactive Compounds with Biological Activities. Biological Forum â€“ An International Journal, 13(1): 39-47.'),(2620,'82','Data Encryption Standard Algorithm in Symmetric Key Cryptography over Finite Field F2','Arun Kumar Sharma and Nikhlesh Kumar Badoga ','105 Data Encryption Standard Algorithm in Symmetric Key Cryptography over Finite Field F2 Arun Kumar Sharma 3433.pdf','',1,'','','','',''),(2621,'82','Decomposition and Decoupling Analysis of Electricity Consumption in Pakistan','Mazhar Ali Rahu, Faheemullah Shaikh, Laveet Kumar and Sonia Irshad Mari','106 Decomposition and Decoupling Analysis of Electricity Consumption in Pakistan Mazhar Ali Rahu 3444.pdf','',1,'','','','',''),(2622,'57','Safety Application in Android\r\n\r\n','Arun Kumar Sharma','34 Safety Application in Android ARUN KUMAR SHARMA.pdf','',1,'','','','',''),(2623,'51','Content-Based Filtering in Movie Recommendation\r\n\r\n','Arun Kumar Sharma','20 IJEECE-RT-Arun Kumar Sharma 2018a.pdf','',1,'','','','',''),(2624,'91','Elliptic Curve Cryptography Involving two Private Keys and Public Keys\r\n\r\n','Arun Kumar Sharma and Nikhlesh Kumar Badoga','3 Elliptic Curve Cryptography Involving two Private Keys and Public Keys ARUN KUMAR SHARMA 1106.pdf','',1,'','','','',''),(2625,'70','Design and Mathematical Structure of Cryptographic Hash Function SHA-512\r\n\r\n','Arun Kumar Sharma','6 Design and Mathematical Structure of Cryptographic Hash Function SHA-512 ARUN KUMAR SHARMA 1263.pdf','',1,'','','','',''),(2626,'76','Digital Signatures using RSA Public Key Cryptosystem Scheme\r\n\r\n','Arun Kumar Sharma and Nikhlesh Kumar Badoga','7 Digital Signatures using RSA Public Key Cryptosystem Scheme ARUN KUMAR SHARMA 1262.pdf','',1,'','','','',''),(2627,'90','System Development for Sale and Buy Execution in Stock Trading using Knowledge-Based System','M. U. Niam, S. Aulia, B. Dirgantoro and S. Hadiyoso','23 System Development for Sale and Buy Execution in Stock Trading using Knowledge-Based System Suci Aulia 3491.pdf','',1,'','','','',''),(2631,'90','Rationalization of Bio-slurry and Chemical Fertilizer Combinations for Growth and Pod Yield of Pea (Pisum sativum L.) under two Growing Seasons','Tehseen Ali Jilani, Kashif Waseem, Javaria Sherani, Sohail Kamaran, Muhammad Saleem Jilani, Tanveer Ahmad, Abdul Manan, Sami Ullah, Kokab Nazim and Husnain Saleem','24 Rationalization of Bio-slurry and Chemical Fertilizer Combinations for Growth and Pod Yield of Pea _Pisum sativum L.pdf','',1,'','','','',''),(2632,'97','An observational behaviour of wild Bhutan takin (Budorcas taxicolor whitei) in Jigme Dorji National Park, Bhutan','Pema Dendup*, Jigme Gyeltshen, Sangay Tenzin, Bep Tshering, Tshering Dorji, Yenten Jamtsho, Sherab Tenzin, Choki Lham\r\n','1_JNBR_10_1__2021.pdf','',1,'','','','',''),(2635,'97','Road kill of Snakes (Squamata: Serpents) on\r\nstate highway 276: a case study in protected\r\nforest area of Deori Forest range Gondia','Sudhir Bhandarkar \r\n, Gopal Paliwal','2_JNBR_10_1__2021.pdf','',1,'','','','',''),(2636,'97','Predation of a Varanus bengalensis by Ophiophagus hannah in Rajaji Tiger Reserve, Uttarakhand','Beer Singh Negi, Kanchan Puri, Abhishek Kumar Singh, Ritesh Joshi*','3_JNBR_10_1__2021.pdf','',1,'','','','',''),(2638,'97','Gymnanthemum amygdalinum (Delile) Sch. Bip.\r\nex Walp (Asteraceae) â€“ A new report to the flora\r\nof Andaman and Nicobar Islands, India','Apurba Kumar Das*, C. Sivaperuman','4_JNBR_10_1__2021.pdf','',1,'','','','',''),(2640,'97','Conservation Assessment of Endemic Plant\r\nEuphorbia jodhpurensis Blatt. & Hallb.\r\n(Euphorbiaceae) in Indian desert, Rajasthan','C.S. Purohit1\r\n, Ramesh Kumar2','5_JNBR_10_1__2021.pdf','',1,'','','','',''),(2641,'94','Narrow Band Internet of Things (NBIoT) a Game Changer for Cellular Industry','Anil Kumar','2 Narrow Band Internet of Things _NBIoT_ A Game Changer for Cellular Industry 1111-Anil Kumar.pdf','',1,'','','','',''),(2642,'92','Molecular Perspectives of Plant-Pathogen Interactions: An Overview on Plant Immunity','Gagan Kumar and Satyabrata Nanda','8 Molecular Perspectives of Plant-Pathogen Interactions An Overview on Plant Immunity Gagan Kumar 656.pdf','',1,'In nature, there is a constant arm race is going on in between plants and pathogens. These plant-pathogen interactions are complex and multifaceted. To tackle the invading pathogens, plants have developed multiple resistance responses at several levels. On the contrary, adapting capabilities and evolution of new effector molecules help the phytopathogens to outrun plant defenses and proliferate in the host cells. Although, many theories and models have been proposed to address these interactions, none of them are exhaustive and fully understood. Therefore, it is essential to make a comprehensive summery of the existing plant-pathogen interaction models and delineate their intricacy related to plant protection. In this review, two crucial pathways of plant immune response, including the pathogen-associated molecular patterns (PAMP)-triggered immunity (PTI) and effector-triggered immunity (ETI) has been discussed elaborately. As both PTI and ETI are the major pathways involved in plant ','Plant immunity, PTI, ETI, plant-pathogen interactions','The interactions between plant-pathogen are complex and multi-faceted. Innumerable studies have been carried out from last decade to the present day to unveil the mechanism of these interactions. When exploring the avenues of plant-pathogen interactions, mainly two broad nodes come into pictures such as PTI and ETI. The former one is based on the strategic detection and neutralization of conserved PAMP or MAPM signatures, whereas the later one relies on the plant resistance genes to confer immunity. Like plants employ PTI or ETI to get rid of the invading pathogens, some of the pathogens can produce potent effectors that can dodge the plant patrolling and spread further infection and pathogen colonization. Thorough understanding and characterization of the different physiological and genetic processes involved in plant-pathogen interaction and exploring more on the phyto-pathosystems will pave ways for exploiting these phenomena in crop protection and improvement. This review, serving ','-','Kumar, G. and Nanda, S. (2021). Molecular Perspectives of Plant-Pathogen Interactions: An Overview on Plant Immunity. Biological Forum â€“ An International Journal, 13(1): 48-53.'),(2643,'90','Analysis of Temperature Trend in the Klip River catchment, KwaZulu Natal, South Africa','D.T. Chabalala, J.M. Ndambuki, R.W. Salim and S.S. Rwanga,','25 Analysis of Temperature Trend in the Klip River catchment, KwaZulu Natal, South Africa D.pdf','',1,'','','','',''),(2644,'90','An approach on Enzymatic Synthesised Protein-Based Surfactant for Application in Personal and Home Care Formulations','Nikita Wanjari, Gauri Bhalekar, Mohd. Asif Siddiqui and Jyotsna Waghmare','26 An approach on Enzymatic Synthesised Protein-Based Surfactant for Application in Personal and Home Care Formulations Nikita Wanjari 3512.pdf','',1,'','','','',''),(2645,'90','In-vitro Chemical Management of Fusarium Wilt of Tomato in Sindh, Pakistan','Gul Bahar Poussio, Manzoor Ali Abro, Rehana Naz Syed, Muhammad Ibrahim Khaskheli\r\nand Absar Mithal Jiskani','27 In-vitro Chemical Management of Fusarium Wilt of Tomato in Sindh, Pakistan Gul Bahar Poussio 3524.pdf','',1,'','','','',''),(2646,'90','Implementation of the Street Vendors (Protection of Livelihood & Regulation of Street Vending) Act 2014: Case of Vadodara','Mallika Dev','28 Implementation of the Street Vendors _Protection of Livelihood & Regulation of Street Vending_ Act 2014 Case of Vadodara Mallika Dev-revised 3478.pdf','',1,'','','','',''),(2647,'98','Design of a Bandpass Filter with Complementary Split Ring Resonators in Evanescent-Mode','Barol LÃ©onard MAFOUNA KIMINOU, NZONZOLO, Charmolavy G L. NKOUKA MOUKENGUE, Pierre Moukala MPELE, DÃ©sirÃ© LILONGA-BOYENGA','1 Design of a Bandpass Filter with Complementary Split Ring Resonators in Evanescent-Mode Barol LÃ©onard MAFOUNA KIMINOU 1264.pdf','',1,'','','','',''),(2648,'98','Oligofurostanosides from Agave vera-cruz Mill. ','N.K. Thakur','2 Oligofurostanosides from Agave vera-cruz Mill.pdf','',1,'','','','',''),(2649,'90','Resistant Cultivars of Safflower Carthamus tinctorius based on Yield Performance and Infestation against Acanthiophilus helianthi (Diptera: Tephritidae)\r\n\r\n','Sajjad Ali Khuhro, Jan Muhammad Mari, Ghulam Hussain Jatoi, Noorulain Soomro, Umed Ali Leghari and Ali Nawaz Mengal','29 Resistant Cultivars of Safflower Carthamus tinctorius based on Yield Performance and Infestation against Acanthiophilus helianthi _Diptera Tephritidae_ Sajjad Ali Khuhro 3497.pdf','',1,'','','','',''),(2650,'90','Potassium Management for the Improvement of Growth and Yield of Grass Pea (Lathyrus sativus L.)\r\n\r\n','Umed Ali, Ghulam Hussain Jatoi, Sajjad Ali Khuhro, Tahmina Shar, Rafiq Ahmad and Mahpara Khatoon','30 Potassium Management for the Improvement of Growth and Yield of Grass Pea _Lathyrus sativus L.pdf','',1,'','','','',''),(2652,'92','Responses of Crops to Foliar Application of Calcium and Potassium\r\n\r\n','E Lokesh Goud and Prasann Kumar','9 Responses of Crops to Foliar Application of Calcium and Potassium Prasann Kumar 640.pdf','',1,'Nutrient availability in the soil has become a limiting factor in the production of crops under the optimum conditions of all other resources, as the soil\'s capacity to supply the required nutrients has been challenged by many factors. Reduced nutrient loss, direct availability of nutrients, lower fertilizer requirements and a high B:C ratio are advantages of foliar application of nutrients over soil application. Calcium is an essential macronutrient that maintains the structure of the plant cell wall, acts as an intracellular messenger in the cytoplasm, assists in other nutrient uptake and mediates enzymatic processes. Calcium foliar application increases the calcium content of the leaves and fruits, increases the growth and yield parameters and the quality of the fruit, slows down the senescence, slows down the development of the fungi in the fruit, reduces the incidence of final rot on the fruit and increases the shelf life of the harvested produce. Calcium foliar spray in combinati','Abiotic stress, Blossom End Rot, Calcium, Drymatter, Estragole, Foliar application','The use of foliar nutrients has a more beneficial effect on crop growth and yield than the application of soil. Calcium can be used as a foliar treatment with calcium chloride, calcium nitrate and chelated calcium individually or in combination with other nutrient solutions and growth regulators at different concentrations depending on the source and crop species. Foliar application of Ca improves the shelf life of harvested products by delaying senescence and fungal growth of stored fruit, maintaining cell wall structure, correcting deficiency disorders in plants such as blossom end rot and alleviating stress conditions. Potassium is a key element in plant nutrition that maintains innumerable functions within the plant body, such as enzyme activation, osmotic balance, stomatal closure and opening, water uptake, stress relief and photosynthetic transport within the plant. Potassium can be sprayed on crops in the form of KCl, KNO3, K2SO4, KOH and KH2PO4 at different concentrations depen','-','Goud, E Lokesh and Kumar, Prasann (2021). Responses of Crops to Foliar Application of Calcium and Potassium. Biological Forum â€“ An International Journal, 13(1): 54-60.'),(2653,'92','Status of Physico-Chemical Characteristics of River Ram Ganga at Bareilly, U.P. India\r\n\r\n','Surender Pal Gangwar and Gaurav Bhadauriya','10 Status of Physico-Chemical Characteristics of River Ram Ganga at Bareilly, U.P. India Surender Pal Gangwar 655.pdf','',1,'The present study was carried out to assess the water quality of river RÄmgangÄ at Bareilly. The water quality of river is not as per norms and the main reason behind this is poor sewage, domestic waste and industrial effluent drainage system in the city Bareilly. In the present investigation water quality monitoring of river Ganga at Bareilly was studied during the period January 2019 to December 2019. The present study based on analysis of some physicochemical parameters from the river Ramganga. Parameters studied were Temperature, pH, free CO2, DO, BOD, TDS, Acidity, Alkalinity, Hardness, Calcium, Chlorides and Conductivity. Statistical analysis of the analytical data was computed in the table 1. The temperature was 17.50Â°C to 22.00Â°C, pH of river water ranges from 7.10 to 7.60, Total dissolved solids were ranged from 115.20 mg/l to 256 mg/l, Free CO2 ranging between 1.50 mg/l to 3.00 mg/l , Hardness of water was 84.00 to 125.00 mg/l, Alkalinity was 110 mg/l to 163 mg/l, organic','Physicochemical parameter, River Ganga, Water quality','This study provides information about the present condition of river Ramganga. A large number of factors directly or indirectly influence the water quality of the river Ramganga. Based on various parameters studied it was concluded that the water quality of River Ramganga is not good. ','-','Gangwar, S. P. and Bhadauriya, G. (2021). Responses of Crops to Foliar Application of Calcium and Potassium. Biological Forum â€“ An International Journal, 13(1): 61-67.'),(2654,'90','Critical Success Factors for Adopting Industry 4.0 in Construction: A Review','Nurul Syazwana Mohammad Suferi and Md Motiar Rahman','31 Critical Success Factors for Adopting Industry 4.pdf','',1,'','','','',''),(2655,'90','Environmental Impact of Biophilic Architecture on Human Health: Evidence from Residential Buildings Greater Noida, India','Bashir Umar Mato and Shhilpi Sinha','32 Environmental Impact of Biophilic Architecture on Human Health Evidence from Residential Buildings Greater Noida, India Bashir Umar Mato 3493.pdf','',1,'','','','',''),(2656,'92','An Observation of Direction of Load on Bending Strength of Psedotsuga taxifolia (Douglas fir)','Ezhumalai R., Karthik Ramesh Surapura and Sharma Sukh Dev','11 An observation of Direction of load on bending Strength of Psedotsuga taxifolia _Douglas fir_ R. Ezhumalai 658.pdf','',1,'Study of stiffness (modulus of elasticity-MOE) and Bending strength/flexural strength (modulus of rupture-MOR) in Psedotsuga taxifolia (Douglas fir) wood on radial and Tangential surface were evaluated. The Tree itself grows to be very large, and yields a large amount of usable lumber and veneer for plywood. It is an incredibly valuable commercial timber, widely used in construction and building purposes. The wood is very stiff and strong due to its weight, and is also among the hardest and heaviest softwoods (dried weight is 510 kg/m3). The strength properties vary with species to species and application of direction of load. Loading direction appreciably affects the bending properties remarkably due to the anisotropic /orthotropic nature of timber. The bending strength of timber when loaded parallel to the direction of load is greater than that of timber loaded perpendicular to the direction of load. So it was very much important to study the direction of loading so that we can use ','Bending strength, Modulus of Elasticity (MOE), Modulus of Rupture (MOR) and Psedotsuga taxifolia (Douglas fir)','The strength properties vary with species to species and application of direction of load. Loading direction appreciably affects the bending properties remarkably due to the anisotropic /orthotropic nature of timber. The study about Mechanical tests on small clear specimens of Eucalyptus globulus L. were performed in Europe. The best correlations between ultimate stress and modulus of elasticity were found in bending and tension parallel to the grain (Jorge Crespo et al., 2020) and one more study in India shows that Radial direction wood sample of Melia compositae bending strength was more in tangential direction (Ezhumalai et al., 2021).\r\nHere in our case, the bending strength of timber when loaded parallel to the direction of load is greater than that of timber loaded perpendicular to the direction of load. The ratio of flexural strength values varied from15% to 17% for Doglas fir. The statistical analysis shows significant difference between radial and tangential direction in MoE an','-','Ezhumalai, R., Karthik Ramesh Surapura and Sharma, Sukh Dev (2021). An observation of Direction of load on bending Strength of Psedotsuga taxifolia (Douglas fir). Biological Forum â€“ An International Journal, 13(1): 68-73.'),(2657,'92','Traditional Knowledge for Management of Biodiversity â€“ Case study of Van Gujjars in Rajaji National Park, Uttarakhand','Kanchan Puri, Ritesh Joshi and Satish C. Garkoti','12 Traditional Knowledge for Management of Biodiversity â€“ Case study of Van Gujjars in Rajaji National Park, Uttarakhand KANCHAN PURI 657.pdf','',1,'It can be rightly said that Indiaâ€™s biodiversity is found in areas inhabited by indigenous and local communities which have rich traditions of knowledge associated with bioresources. Todayâ€™s ecological problems have become a major threat to the livelihood security of the poor people which are the custodians of biodiversity. We all know the importance of biodiversity, especially among the ethnic and local people living in forest who are totally dependent on them. This note highlights the traditional knowledge possessed by Van Gujjars living in the Rajaji National Park, Uttarakhand.','Biodiversity, Van Gujjars, Rajaji National Park, Uttarakhand','Signed by 150 government leaders at the 1992 Rio Earth Summit, the Convention on Biological Diversity (CBD) is dedicated to promoting sustainable development. The Convention recognizes that biological diversity is about more than plants, animals and micro organisms and their ecosystems â€“ it is about people and our need for food security, medicines, fresh air and water, shelter, and a clean and healthy environment in which to live (https://www.cbd.int/convention/). CBD commits countries to prepare inventories of the bioresources, to monitor and take steps to conserve them.\r\nIn order to help in realizing the objectives of CBD, India has enacted an umbrella legislation called the Biological Diversity Act 2002 aimed at conservation of biological resources and associated knowledge as well as facilitating access to them in a sustainable manner (www.moef.nic.in). \r\nThe Act provides provisions for regulated access to biological resources by bonafide end users for various purposes including ','-','Puri, Kanchan, Joshi, Ritesh and Garkoti, Satish C. (2021). Traditional Knowledge for Management of Biodiversity â€“ Case study of Van Gujjars in Rajaji National Park, Uttarakhand. Biological Forum â€“ An International Journal, 13(1): 74-76.'),(2658,'77','Analyzing Trust based Routing in Secure MANET Using TAODV, TACO and FUZZY_FPSO Algorithms\r\n\r\n','K. Ranjithsingh and D. Maruthanayagam','171 Analyzing Trust based Routing in Secure MANET Using TAODV, TACO and FUZZY_FPSO Algorithms K.pdf','',1,'','','','',''),(2659,'98','Study on Zooplanktonic Community of River Deorania at Bareilly District (U.P.) and its Relation to Seasonal Variation\r\n\r\n','Surender Pal Gangwar and Gaurav Bhadauriya','3 Study on Zooplanktonic Community of River Deorania at Bareilly District _U.P.pdf','',1,'','','','',''),(2660,'92','An Understanding of Tree Biomechanics in the Context of India\r\n','Ezhumalai R. and Shikhar Shukla \r\n','13 An Understanding of Tree Biomechanics in the Context of India R Ezhumalai 660.pdf','',1,'Mechanical behavior of trees is the one of the prime interest for urban forestry and arboricultural research. Tree biomechanics deals with the study of mechanical responses offered by the standing tree to the external dynamic load (primarily wind) and static load (crown load). It helps in understanding the phenomenon about how the tree survives in strong winds and further assist in monitoring the urban forest with minimal danger to human life and properties due to tree felling. Therefore, modeling the tree behavior and measuring the actual state of trees in situ condition is important for the tree safety assessment. Tree biomechanics study in India is very limited, that too particular to Wind break plantation (Buvaneswaran et al., 2016) and shelter belt (Petty, 1981) study in agricultural field. These studies are related to wind effect on agricultural crops and not to the impact on standing trees. With the advancement of cities and the concept of urban forestry in India, there is a nee','Tree Biomechanics, wind tree modeling, wind Speed, Crown Size. ','Tree Biomechanics study is the new field in India. Indian city municipal corporation are not much bothered about the tree falling and its damage to the properties because of its less cyclone/storm occurrence in the city earlier but now a dayâ€™s cyclone are more common, frequency is high per year and high rain intensity so that the damage to the properties by means of falling trees during last decades was more. In 2020, India received the four cyclones (Amphan, BOB 03, Nisarga and Nivar). We should be more focused and emphasis our study on the designing of city based on the wind effect. Based on above fact and discussion following suggestion and further scopes were elucidated in the paper. \r\nâ€¢ Important Indian cities should be mapped according to the health status of the trees through technology intervention. If heavily decayed trees are found, they should be removed and new seedlings should be planted. \r\nâ€¢ Tall and heavy broad canopy trees should not be planted in urban areas. Onl','-','Ezhumalai, R. and Shukla, Shikhar (2021). An Understanding of Tree Biomechanics in the Context of India. Biological Forum â€“ An International Journal, 13(1): 77-81.'),(2661,'92','Influence of Spacing and Phosphorus Levels on Growth and Yield of Blackgram (Vigna mungo L.)\r\n\r\n','Bonepally Rashmitha, Umesha C. and M. R. Meshram','14 Influence of Spacing and Phosphorus Levels on Growth and Yield of Blackgram _Vigna mungo L._ Bonepally Rashmitha 663.pdf','',1,'The present study aimed to evaluate the effect of spacing and phosphorus levels on blackgram (var. â€œTYPE-9â€) during Kharif 2020 at Crop Research Farm, Department of Agronomy, SHUATS, Prayagraj (U.P) spacing and phosphorus levels seems necessary factors for achieving the higher yield of blackgram. The soil of experimental plot was sandy loam in texture, nearly neutral in soil reaction (pH 7.7), low high carbon (0.44%), medium available N (171.48 kg/ha), low available P (27.0kg/ha) and high available K (291.2 kg/ha). The treatment consisted of spacing viz., 20 Ã— 10 cm2, 30 Ã— 10 cm2, 40 Ã— 10 cm2 and nutrient phosphorus application 20 kg/ha, 30 kg/ha and 40 kg/ha. The experiment was laid out in Randomized Block Design (RBD) with nine treatments which are replicated thrice. The results showed that higher plant height (45.93 cm) was recorded significantly higher with spacing 20 Ã— 10 cm2 + 40 kg/ha P2O5 of phosphorus. Whereas, number of branches per plant (6.67), number of nodules per','Black gram, spacing, phosphorus, yield.','Based on the findings of the investigation it may be concluded that for obtaining optimum seed yield performance of blackgram under rainfed conditions, maintaining a wider spacing of 30 Ã— 10 cm2 along with 40 kg/ha phosphorus is the best management practice to increase the availability and utilization of nutrients by the crop. Whereas, optimum growth was observed with a wider spacing of 40 Ã— 10 cm2 along with 40 kg/ha phosphorus. ','-','Bonepally, Rashmitha, Umesha, C. and Meshram, M. R. (2021). Influence of Spacing and Phosphorus Levels on Growth, Yield and Economics of Blackgram (Vigna mungo L.). Biological Forum â€“ An International Journal, 13(1): 82-85.'),(2662,'92','Characterisation of In Vitro Produced Embelin and Evaluation of its Antifungal Properties\r\n\r\n','Tresa Hamalton and Janofer U.','15 Characterisation of In Vitro Produced Embelin and Evaluation of its Antifungal Properties Tresa Hamalton 662.pdf','',1,'Traditionally used toxic chemical wood preservatives are being replaced with eco-friendly biocidal wood protectants. Many plant extractives are being investigated for their potential to control biodegradation of wood, and a single organic compound effective against a broad range of wood rot fungi is yet to be identified. Embelin, the main active component of the extremely valuable medicinal plant, Embelia ribes, is effective against a wide spectrum of fungi causing human diseases and is therefore used in the formulation of anti-fungal drugs. However, there is no prior report on its effect against wood degrading fungi. In vitro production of Embelin through callus or cell cultures can be adopted to obtain this compound at a shorter duration in large amounts. In this study, Embelin was extracted in chloroform from leaf derived callus and seeds of E. ribes, which were characterised by TLC and FT-IR analyses. Assays against wood rot fungi using the extracted Embelin revealed that it can be','Embelin, antifungal, Embelia ribes, bioreactor, wood rot fungi.','The production of secondary metabolites of medicinally important compounds using plant tissue culture technology has become feasible due to the enhanced understanding about metabolic pathways and advancements in metabolic engineering. We have earlier showed the feasibility of using callus culture as an alternative for Embelin production. In the present study, the evaluation of the antifungal efficacy of extracted and characterised Embelin is reported. The Embelin in callus extract, seed extract and ex vitro leaf extract was confirmed by TLC and FT-IR. This study has also shown that, Embelin is effective against wood rotters such as Trimates hirsuta and Oligoporus placentus at concentrations above 25mg/l for seed and callus extract. Therefore, Embelin can also be used as an alternative to chemical wood preservatives. Also, there is a possibility of developing E. ribes as an important source of biopesticide and a potential antifungal agent. However, further studies are needed for isolati','-','Hamalton, T. and U. Janofer, (2021). Characterisation of In Vitro Produced Embelin and Evaluation of its Antifungal Properties. Biological Forum â€“ An International Journal, 13(1): 86-91.'),(2663,'92','Impact of Potassium and Sulphur Levels on Pearl millet (Pennisetum glaucum L.)','Kunduru Manikanteswara Reddy*, Umesha, C. and M.R. Meshram','16 Impact of Potassium and Sulphur levels on Pearl millet _Pennisetum glaucum L._ Kunduru Manikanteswara Reddy 661.pdf','',1,'The field experiment was conducted during Kharif 2020 at Crop Research Farm, Department of Agronomy, SHUATS, Prayagraj (U.P.). The soil of trial plot was sandy loam in texture, nearly neutral in soil reaction (pH 7.1), low organic carbon (0.36%), medium availability N (171.48 kg ha-1), lower availability P (15.2 kg ha-1) and medium availability K (232.5 kg ha-1). The research was laid out in Randomized Block Design (RBD) which consist of ten treatments which are replicated thrice to Study the different levels of potassium and sulphur on growth and yield of Pearl millet. The results showed that higher plant height (150.43 cm), maximum number of leaves per plant (9.13) and highest dry weight per plant (19.55 g) were obtained significantly with the application of 50 kg ha-1 of K+20 kg ha-1 of S as compared to all other treatments. The higher grain yield (3.97 t/ha) and stover yield (7.68 t/ha) and were significantly recorded with the application of 50 kg ha-1 of potassium +20 kg ha-1 of s','Pearl millet, Potassium, Sulphur, yield.','Study suggests that to achieve maximum plant height (150.3 cm), dry weight/plant (19.55 g), grain yield (3.97 t/ha) and stover yield (7.68 t/ha) was significantly recorded with the application of potassium (K) 50 kg ha-1 + sulphur (S) 20 kg ha-1. Hence, the application of Potassium (K) 50 kg ha-1 + Sulphur (S) 20 kg ha-1 is beneficial for pearl millet production under eastern Uttar Pradesh condition.','-','Reddy, Kunduru Manikanteswara, Umesha, C. and Meshram, M.R. (2021). Impact of Potassium and Sulphur levels on Pearl millet (Pennisetum glaucum L.). Biological Forum â€“ An International Journal, 13(1): 92-97.'),(2664,'90','Role of Interleukin 10 in Hepatitis C Viral Clearance and Distribution of its Polymorphism in Pakistani Population','Asma Afzal, Maryam Zain, Ayesha Ahmed Sumra, Aleema Ali, Tayyaba Akhtar, Tayyaba Ashfaq, Sonia Parveen, Zahra Anwar and Ayesha Andleeb','33 Role of Interleukin 10 in Hepatitis C Viral Clearance and Distribution of its Polymorphism in Pakistani population Maryam Zain 3479.pdf','',1,'','','','',''),(2665,'90','Use of Social Media as an Interactive Teaching Aid in Developing Countries','Abdul Hafeez Khan, Asif Ali Wagan and Aamir Iqbal Umrani','34 Use of Social Media as an Interactive Teaching Aid in Developing Countries Abdul Hafeez Khan 3456.pdf','',1,'','','','',''),(2666,'90','Application of a New Trigonometric Theory in the Buckling Analysis of Three-Dimensional Thick Plate','Onyeka, F.C., Okafor, F.O. and Onah H.N.','35 Application of a New Trigonometric Theory in the Buckling Analysis of Three-Dimensional Thick Plate Onyeka F.C. 3474.pdf','',1,'','','','',''),(2667,'90','Assessment of Fire Safety Management of High Rise Buildings in Lahore, Pakistan','Mudassar Jehanzeb, Usman Ilyas and Prof. Sajid Rashid Ahmad','36 Assessment of Fire Safety Management of High Rise Buildings in Lahore, Pakistan Usman Ilyas 3535.pdf','',1,'','','','',''),(2668,'93','Redefining Sense-of-Urgency and Timeliness in Higher Education efficiency: Study of Uganda\r\n\r\n','Rogers Matama and Kezia H. Mkwizu','2 Redefining Sense-of-Urgency and Timeliness in Higher Education efficiency Kezia H.pdf','',1,'','','','',''),(2669,'93','Tobacco Laws and Implementation in the Union Territories of Ladakh in India \r\n\r\n','Ajaz Afzal Lone, Ashfaq Hamid Dar and M.Z.M. Nomani','3 Tobacco Laws and Implementation in the Union Territories of Ladakh in India M.Z.M.pdf','',1,'','','','',''),(2670,'93','Marketing Strategies as a tool for Destination Competitiveness: A case of Gaborone City\r\n\r\n','Phetogo Sechele-Mosimanegape and Kezia H. Mkwizu','4 Marketing Strategies as a tool for Destination Competitiveness A case of Gaborone City Kezia H.pdf','',1,'','','','',''),(2671,'93','Home Based Catering an Entrepreneurship for Women Empowerment\r\n\r\n','Upasna Seth','5 Home Based Catering an Entrepreneurship for Women Empowerment Dr.pdf','',1,'','','','',''),(2672,'92','Agroforestry Model Serve as Tools for Improvement in Soil Quality\r\n\r\n','N.K. Kushwaha, Vinit Kumar, B.S. Rajawat and Vivek Tiwari','17 Agroforestry Model Serve as Tools for Improvement in Soil Quality N.K. Kushwaha 687.pdf','',1,'Tree in agroecosystems present in various combinations and they may support variety of biological diversity in the ecosystem. More the diversity results various set of competition creating varieties of products developed due to the interaction dynamics and resulting the current quality of soil physico-chemical status. Present paper deals with soil analysis of agroforestry and non-agroforestry cropland soil sample were collected from 21 villages randomly from Karera block of Shivpuri district by doing comparative study. Hypothesis of the study (HO = Two given independent population means are same Vs H1 = Two population means are not same (Alternate hypothesis postulated that in the presence of any factor there may be the impact of population gives differences in that population which is not affected by any factors). In view of statistical Data analysis at Î±=0.05 level of significance the calculated value of studentâ€™s t- test were found 6.4489, 27.347 & 13.72505 for N content, OC % a','Karera, C:N ratio, Agroforestry cropland, soil data analysis, studentâ€™s t-test.','In view of statistical Data analysis at Î± = 0.05 level of significance the calculated value of studentâ€™s t- test were found 6.4489, 27.347 & 13.72505 for N content, OC % and C:N ration respectively which are at par from t-test table value (Î± = 0.05 and 20 d.f.) was 2.086 which concluded that the significance changes has been observed in soil quality due to the agroforestry model at karera block of Shivpuri district. \r\n\r\nBased on data analysis result, it is cleared that agroforestry model having significant positive impact on the soil quality and hence, it is clearly indicating that, agroforestry model used as an improvement tools by applying different tree varieties over bund plantation around the cropland.\r\n','-','Kushwaha, N.K., Kumar, Vinit, Rajawat, B.S. and Tiwari, Vivek (2021). Agroforestry Model Serve as Tools for Improvement in Soil Quality. Biological Forum â€“ An International Journal, 13(1): 98-105.'),(2674,'92','Exploring Combinations of Rootstock Planting Time, Scion type and time of Grafting on Grafting Success of Walnut Plants\r\n\r\n','Rifat Bhat*, S.A. Simnani and Irshad Hassan','18 Exploring Combinations of Rootstock Planting Time, Scion type and time of Grafting on Grafting Success of Walnut Plants Dr Rifat Bhat 667.pdf','',1,'The success in propagation is known to be influenced by the method, time and environment conditions to which the plants are subjected to grow before and after propagation. So there is urgent need to standardize the environment and time for clonal multiplication of walnut in order to ensure supply of quality plant material for expansion of area, there by facilitating manifold increase in production and productivity of superior nuts and meeting the international standards of quality characters of nut and kernel. Since, no systematic work has been carried out to see the combined influence of the rootstock planting time, scion type and time of grafting. Therefore, the present investigation entitled â€œExploring combinations of rootstock planting time, scion type and time of grafting on grafting success of walnut plantsâ€ was carried out in the Experimental Farm, of Division of Fruit Science, SKUAST-K- Shalimar during the years 2017 and 2018. The experiment was laid out in a Randomized Com','Rootstock planting, scion type, grafting, walnut, sulaiman.','The present investigation entitled â€œVegetative propagation of walnuts under polyhouse conditionsâ€ revealed that among the different timings of rootstock planting, rootstocks planted during 2nd fortnight of November proved significantly better in comparison to other timings. Scion type having middle portion of current season growth with 3-5 buds grafted during 3rd week of February on the rootstock which was planted during 2nd fortnight of November took minimum days to bud swell and bud bursting and had higher graft success per cent, more number of leaves, higher leaf area and shoot length and greater final height of grafted plants. Thus, rootstock planting during 2nd fortnight of November and grafted during 3rd week of February with scion type having middle portion of current season growth with 3-5 buds should be practiced for large scale multiplication of walnuts under polyhouse conditions.','-','Bhat, R., Simnani, S.A. and Hassan, I. (2021). Exploring Combinations of Rootstock Planting Time, Scion type and time of Grafting on Grafting Success of Walnut Plants. Biological Forum â€“ An International Journal, 13(1): 106-115.'),(2675,'92','Genetic Association among Yield and Drought Tolerance Related Physiological Traits in Clusterbean [Cyamopsis tetragonoloba (L.)]','Vishal L. Modi and S.C. Sharma*','19 Genetic Association among Yield and Drought Tolerance Related Physiological Traits in Clusterbean [Cyamopsis tetragonoloba _L._] S.C. Sharma.pdf','',1,'Clusterbean (Cyamopsis tetragonoloba (L.) Taub.) commonly known as guar is an important self pollinated crop. Clusterbean in current years has achieved status of an industrial crop due to its water soluble natural polymers galactomannan content which has several diversified uses in the industries like mining, petroleum drilling, textiles, paints, explosives, paper oil, pharmaceuticals, foods, cosmetics and photography. Average productivity of clusterbean is very low as the crop is confined to rainfed farming in arid and semi arid areas, having poor fertility soils and erratic rainfall leading to frequent droughts. However, clusterbean is an important drought tolerant crop but very meagre information is available on the physiology of this crop. Therefore, this experiment was conducted to elicit information on correlation and path analysis among 11 morphological and 6 drought tolerance related physiological traits in different plant types of clusterbean. Association studies revealed th','Clusterbean, Cyamopsis tetragonoloba (L.), correlation, path analysis, drought tolerance','Clusterbean (Cyamopsis tetragonoloba (L.) Taub.) commonly known as guar is an important self pollinated crop. Clusterbean in current years has achieved status of an industrial crop due to its water soluble natural polymers galactomannan content which has several diversified uses in the industries like mining, petroleum drilling, textiles, paints, explosives, paper oil, pharmaceuticals, foods, cosmetics and photography. Average productivity of clusterbean is very low as the crop is confined to rainfed farming in arid and semi arid areas, having poor fertility soils and erratic rainfall leading to frequent droughts. However, clusterbean is an important drought tolerant crop but very meagre information is available on the physiology of this crop. Therefore, this experiment was conducted to elicit information on correlation and path analysis among 11 morphological and 6 drought tolerance related physiological traits in different plant types of clusterbean. Association studies revealed th','-','Modi, Vishal L. and Sharma, S.C. (2021). Genetic Association among Yield and Drought Tolerance Related Physiological Traits in Clusterbean [Cyamopsis tetragonoloba (L.)]. Biological Forum â€“ An International Journal, 13(1): 116-121.'),(2676,'92','Response of Summer Green Manuring and Nutrient Management on Log Phase of Growth in Unpuddled Transplanted Hybrid Rice (Oryza sativa L.)\r\n\r\n','Vikash Kumar, M.K. Singh, Nikhil Raghuvanshi and Monalisa Sahoo','20 Response of Summer Green Manuring and Nutrient Management on Log Phase of Growth in Unpuddled Transplanted Hybrid Rice Oryza sativa L. Vikash Kumar 669.pdf','',1,'A two-year experiment was conducted on sandy clay loam soil of Indo-Gangetic plain to investigate the effect of summer green manuring and nitrogen management on unpuddled transplanted hybrid rice (Oryza sativa L.) during its log phase of growth. The experiment was laid out in split plot design with four green manuring treatment in main plot viz. fallow, water hyacinth, Sesbania aculeata, sudan grass and three treatments in sub plot viz. 60 % RDN, 80 % RDN, and 100 % RDN with three replications. The results reported that the higher growth parameters viz. plant height, number of tillers/m2, dry matter accumulation, and number of leaves were recorded under Sesbania aculeata as compared to sudan grass and fallow, however, it was statistically at par with water hyacinth during both the years of experimentation. Among nitrogen management treatments, 100% RDN recorded higher growth parameters which was followed by 80% RDN during both the years. These results also imply that use of chemical fe','Green manuring, nitrogen, growth, water hyacinth','The results of two years of field study indicated that Sesbania aculeata incorporated at 45 DAS in soil recorded significantly higher growth attributes viz. plant height, number of tillers/m2, number of leaves/running meter, dry matter accumulation/hill, dry matter of leaves/hill, and dry matter of shoot/hill as compared to other green manuring treatments. Among all nitrogen management treatments, 100 % RDN (50 % nitrogen through FYM and 50 % nitrogen through inorganic) recorded significantly higher growth attributes as compared to other nitrogen management during both the years. The results clearly indicated the need of integrated use of green manuring in addition to chemical fertilizers to meet the nutrient need for optimum growth of rice.','-','Kumar, V., Singh, M.K., Raghuvanshi, N. and Sahoo, M. (2021). Response of Summer Green Manuring and Nutrient Management on Log Phase of Growth in Unpuddled Transplanted Hybrid Rice (Oryza sativa L.). Biological Forum â€“ An International Journal, 13(1): '),(2677,'92','Influence of Nitrogen and Zinc Levels on Pearl Millet \r\n (Pennisetum glaucum L.)\r\n\r\n','Kakarla Rakesh, Umesha C. and Balachandra, Y.','21 Influence of Nitrogen and Zinc Levels on Pearl Millet Kakarla Rakesh 665.pdf','',1,'A field experiment was conducted during kharif 2020 at Krishi Vigyan Kendra, Kalyandurgam (A.P.). The soil of trial plot was sandy loam in texture, basic in soil reaction (pH 8.29), low in Organic carbon (0.20%), medium available N (170.6 kgha-1), higher available P (31.0 kg ha-1) and medium available K (232.5 kg ha-1). The research is laid out in Randomized Block Design (RBD) which consist of nine treatments replicated thrice. The outcomes showed that higher plant height (164.24 cm), maximum dry weight (27.69 g), higher Crop Growth Rate (4.46 g/m2/day) were noted significantly higher with the application of Nitrogen (N) 85 kg ha-1 + Zinc (Zn) 10 kg ha-1. The maximum no. of grains per ear head (1724.96), Number of effective tillers (1.61), grain yield (3.77 t ha-1), stover yield (5.96 t ha-1) then harvest index (39.45%) were noted significantly with the application of Nitrogen (N) 85 kg ha-1 + Zinc (Zn) 10 kg ha-1. The maximum net returns (81050.3 INR ha-1) then B:C (1.86) noted with','Pearl millet, Nitrogen, Zinc, growth, yield and economics.','On the basis of study, suggests that the application of Nitrogen (N) 85 kg/ha + Zinc (Zn) 10 kg/ha resulted \r\nhighest grain yield of (3.77 t ha-1), net return (81050.3 INR/ha) as well as B:C ratio of (1.86).\r\n','-','Kakarla, R., Umesha, C. and Balachandra, Y. (2021). Influence of Nitrogen and Zinc Levels on Pearl Millet (Pennisetum glaucum L.). Biological Forum â€“ An International Journal, 13(1): 128-132.'),(2678,'90','Comparison of Linear and Nonlinear H-Infinity Controllers for an Electric Vehicle Driven by the Permanent Magnet Synchronous Motor\r\n\r\n','F. Oudjama, A. BoumÃ©diÃ¨ne, M. Messirdi and D. Boubekeur','37 Comparison of Linear and Nonlinear H-Infinity Controllers for an Electric Vehicle Driven by the Permanent Magnet Synchronous Motor Boubekeur 3529.pdf','',1,'','','','',''),(2679,'90','Exogenous Hydrogen Peroxide (H2O2) Eustress to Wheat Genotypes Attenuates their Salinity Distress\r\n','Mahjabeen Panhwar, Ghulam Hussain Jatoi, Ghulam Jilani, Zameer Ali Palh, Shaharyar Brohi, Shehnaz Panhwar, Sujo Meghwar and Khalid Hussain Lashari\r\n','38 Exogenous Hydrogen Peroxide _H2O2_ Eustress to Wheat Genotypes Attenuates their Salinity Distress Ghulam Hussain Jatoi 3541.pdf','',1,'','','','',''),(2680,'93','Study of Effectiveness of Human Resource Performance Management System in IT Company with special reference to Harman Connected Services Ltd., Bangalore\r\n\r\n','Anupama Panda','6 Study of Effectiveness of Human Resource Performance Management System in IT Company with special reference to Harman Connected Services Ltd.pdf','',1,'','','','',''),(2681,'99','A Study of Urban Domestic Water Service Delivery through User Perspective Survey\r\n\r\n','Muhammad Imran Aziz and Salman Saeed','1 A Study of Urban Domestic Water Service Delivery through User Perspective Survey Muhammad Imran Aziz 3538.pdf','',1,'','','','',''),(2682,'92','Optimization of Planting Time for Better Flowering, Corms and Cormels Production in Gladiolus (Gladiolus grandiflorus)','Sonia Singh and S.K. Sehrawat','22 Optimization of Planting Time for Better Flowering, Corms and Cormels production in Gladiolus _Gladiolus grandiflorus_ Sonia Singh 673.pdf','',1,'Present study was conducted to assess the effect of planting time and growing conditions on floral and corm characters of gladiolus Cv. American Beauty at Department of Horticulture, CCS Haryana Agricultural University, Hisar. The results revealed that planting of corms on 15th October resulted into maximum number of florets per spike (11.22), spike length (80.15 cm), rachis length (71.37 cm), floret diameter (8.55 cm), size of corm (5.75 cm), weight of corm (41.30 g), number of cormels per plant (9.90) and weight of 10 cormels (5.96 g). Between two growing conditions, open field was significantly superior in respect to number of florets per spike (11.50), spike length (80.18 cm), rachis length (68.25 cm), diameter of floret (7.97 cm), size of corm (4.33 cm), weight of corm (35.49 g), number of cormels per plant (8.55) and weight of 10 cormels (6.37 g) in comparison of shade net house. By finding proper planting time vegetative growth and quality of flowers can be improved to steady su','Corms, Gladiolus, Growing conditions, Spike, Planting time','Present study was conducted to assess the effect of planting time and growing conditions on floral and corm characters of gladiolus Cv. American Beauty at Department of Horticulture, CCS Haryana Agricultural University, Hisar. The results revealed that planting of corms on 15th October resulted into maximum number of florets per spike (11.22), spike length (80.15 cm), rachis length (71.37 cm), floret diameter (8.55 cm), size of corm (5.75 cm), weight of corm (41.30 g), number of cormels per plant (9.90) and weight of 10 cormels (5.96 g). Between two growing conditions, open field was significantly superior in respect to number of florets per spike (11.50), spike length (80.18 cm), rachis length (68.25 cm), diameter of floret (7.97 cm), size of corm (4.33 cm), weight of corm (35.49 g), number of cormels per plant (8.55) and weight of 10 cormels (6.37 g) in comparison of shade net house. By finding proper planting time vegetative growth and quality of flowers can be improved to steady su','-','Singh, Sonia and Sehrawat, S.K. (2021). Optimization of Planting Time for Better Flowering, Corms and Cormels production in Gladiolus (Gladiolus grandiflorus). Biological Forum â€“ An International Journal, 13(1): 133-137.'),(2683,'92','Analytic Measures of Adaptability for Wheat Genotypes Evaluated under Northern Hills Zone of India for Restricted Irrigated Late Sown Conditions: Comparative Study ','Ajay Verma, J. Crossa, M. Vargas, A.K. Joshi and G.P. Singh','23 Analytic Measures of Adaptability for Wheat Genotypes Evaluated under Northern Hills Zone of India for Restricted Irrigated Late Sown Conditions Comparative Study Dr. Ajay Verma 672.pdf','',1,'Adaptability of wheat genotypes while considering their random effects had been studied by recent analytic measures. High yield and better adaptability of VL892, VL3010 & HS627 wheat genotypes identified during 2015-16. HPW433 had specific adaptaÂ¬tions to Kalimpong, Shimla and Dhaulakuan whereas HS626 for Imphal and Bajura, while HS625 identified for Malan in biplot analysis exploiting 80.6 % of total GxE interaction sum of squares. BLUE based measures identified VL892, VL3010 & HS627 for high yield and better adaptability. Biplot analysis based on 78.9 % reflected HPW433 and HS626 had specific adaptaÂ¬tions to Bajura, Imphal, Dhaulakuan locations. Second year (2017-18) expressed better adaptability along high yield of HS490, HS660 and VL 3017 wheat genotypes. Genotypes VL3018, VL3016 and VL892 had exhibited specific adaptaÂ¬tions to locations of Una, Almora and Dhaulakuan. Adaptability measures as per BLUE exhibited better adaptability and high yield of HS490, HS660 and VL 3017 whe','MET, BLUP, BLUE, GAI, HMGV, RPGV, HMRPGV, Biplot analysis','Adaptability of wheat genotypes while considering their random effects had been studied by recent analytic measures. High yield and better adaptability of VL892, VL3010 & HS627 wheat genotypes identified during 2015-16. HPW433 had specific adaptaÂ¬tions to Kalimpong, Shimla and Dhaulakuan whereas HS626 for Imphal and Bajura, while HS625 identified for Malan in biplot analysis exploiting 80.6 % of total GxE interaction sum of squares. BLUE based measures identified VL892, VL3010 & HS627 for high yield and better adaptability. Biplot analysis based on 78.9 % reflected HPW433 and HS626 had specific adaptaÂ¬tions to Bajura, Imphal, Dhaulakuan locations. Second year (2017-18) expressed better adaptability along high yield of HS490, HS660 and VL 3017 wheat genotypes. Genotypes VL3018, VL3016 and VL892 had exhibited specific adaptaÂ¬tions to locations of Una, Almora and Dhaulakuan. Adaptability measures as per BLUE exhibited better adaptability and high yield of HS490, HS660 and VL 3017 whe','-','Verma, A., Crossa, J., Vargas, M., Joshi, A.K. and Singh, G.P. (2021). Analytic Measures of Adaptability for Wheat Genotypes Evaluated under Northern Hills Zone of India for Restricted Irrigated Late Sown Conditions: Comparative Study. Biological Forum â'),(2684,'92','Influence of Different Priming Methods on Growth, Nodulation and Yield of Kabuli Chickpea (Cicer arietinum L.) var. Dollar','Prattipati Nagarjuna and A.K. Chaurasia','24 Influence of Different Priming Methods on Growth, Nodulation and Yield of Kabuli Chickpea _Cicer arietinum L._ var. Dollar Prattipati Nagarjuna 680.pdf','',1,'Rabi, on the occasion of 2019-20 investigated a set of thirteen priming treatments in Kabuli chick pea in randomized block design with three replicants. The seeds of Kabuli chickpea were treated with GA3 @100, 200ppm, IAA @100, 200ppm, SA @100, 200ppm, moringa leaf extract @3,5%, neem leaf extract @3,5%, Rhizobium japonicum@200gm/kg and 300gm/kg of seed. The analysis of the difference revealed that the significance due to the seed priming treatments is the amount of squares. Different seed priming treatments have a significant effect on plant height 30 and 60DAS (cm), number of pods / number of plants, number of nodules / plant at crop, pod weight / plant (g), seed yield / plant (gm), Biological yield. (gm / plot) and seed yield (g / plot). The treatments for these characters are significantly different. Field emergence and the number of primary and secondary branches per plant were not affected. T1 (gibberellic acid (GA3) @ 100 ppm) significantly affected plant height at 30 DAS (cm),','Chickpea, GA3 and IAA, Rhizobium japonicum','Rabi, on the occasion of 2019-20 investigated a set of thirteen priming treatments in Kabuli chick pea in randomized block design with three replicants. The seeds of Kabuli chickpea were treated with GA3 @100, 200ppm, IAA @100, 200ppm, SA @100, 200ppm, moringa leaf extract @3,5%, neem leaf extract @3,5%, Rhizobium japonicum@200gm/kg and 300gm/kg of seed. The analysis of the difference revealed that the significance due to the seed priming treatments is the amount of squares. Different seed priming treatments have a significant effect on plant height 30 and 60DAS (cm), number of pods / number of plants, number of nodules / plant at crop, pod weight / plant (g), seed yield / plant (gm), Biological yield. (gm / plot) and seed yield (g / plot). The treatments for these characters are significantly different. Field emergence and the number of primary and secondary branches per plant were not affected. T1 (gibberellic acid (GA3) @ 100 ppm) significantly affected plant height at 30 DAS (cm),','-','Nagarjuna, Prattipati and Chaurasia, A.K. (2021). Influence of Different Priming Methods on Growth, Nodulation and Yield of Kabuli Chickpea (Cicer arietinum L.) var. Dollar. Biological Forum â€“ An International Journal, 13(1): 145-148.'),(2685,'92','Impact of Spacing and Nitrogen Levels on growth and Yield of Chia (Sylvia hispanica L.)','Punyasloka Mohanty, Umesha C., Dillip Ranjan Sarangi and Lalit Kumarsanodiya','25 Impact of Spacing and Nitrogen Levels on growth and Yield of Chia Sylvia hispanica L. Punyasloka Mohanty.pdf','',1,'Nitrogen takes part in many physiological and biochemical plant processes and is a structural unit of amino acids, nucleic acids, enzymes and proteins, chlorophyll, and cell wall. Nitrogen is thus universally limiting factor in soil and most important for crops growth and yield, its management in the field level is necessary to obtain high seed yield. Efficient fertilization is necessary in both economic and environmental terms. This minimizes nutrient losses to the environment while producing optimum crop yields. A field experiment was conducted during Kharif season of 2020 at experimental field of National Rice Research Institute (NRRI)-Krishi Vigyan Kendra (KVK), Cuttack to determine the â€œImpact of spacing and nitrogen levels on growth, yield and economics of chia (Sylvia hispanica L.)â€. The experiment consisted of four, doses of nitrogen (40, 60, 80, 100 kg/ha) and two spacing (50 cm Ã— 20 cm, 60 cm Ã— 20 cm). The experiment was arranged in a statistical design of Randomized Bl','Chia, nitrogen level, spacing, yield, Sylvia hispanica L. ','Optimum seed yield of chia was recorded at 100 kg N/ha at spacing of 50 cm Ã— 20 cm. Comparing the seed yield of chia the application of 100 kg N/ha along with 50 cm row spacing had improved the seed yield of chia by 49.58 % compared to the control plots.','-','Mohanty, Punyasloka, Umesha, C., Sarangi, Dillip Ranjan and Kumarsanodiya, Lalit (2021). Impact of Spacing and Nitrogen Levels on growth and Yield of Chia (Sylvia hispanica L.). Biological Forum â€“ An International Journal, 13(1): 149-153.'),(2686,'82','Driver Behavior as Road Safety Indicator– A Case Study of Gorakhpur, Uttar Pradesh, India\r\n\r\n','Ashutosh Gupta and A. K. Mishra','107 Driver Behavior as Road Safety Indicator– A Case Study of Gorakhpur, Uttar Pradesh, India Ashutosh Gupta.pdf','',1,'Driving can be considered as a goal-directed behavior, i.e. going from one place to another. Reaching the destination in time and maintaining safety are the two main aspects or goals while driving, when these goals get blocked, emotions may occur, which in turn leads to behavioral change. Any ‘interruption’ of goal-directed behavior is likely to release a negative effect and any ‘Promotion’ of goal-directed behavior is more likely to induce a positive effect. In this study, various behavioral driving of road users in Gorakhpur district (U.P.), India is studied with the help of instrument Drivers behavior questionnaire and their relationship with road accidents is also done. A total of 391 drivers were randomly assigned to complete the survey and the finding shows that 12.4 percent of drivers are likely to make errors and 8.9 percent have critical driving behavior. Both groups of driver’s behaviors are very dangerous to other drivers and this behavior is seen to be significantly related to gender. Even though the study found that the percentages of drivers who commit aggressive as well as ordinary violations are small, but they should consider road safety because they travel on roads daily to do their work and other social responsibilities. ','Road users, Drivers behavior, Road safety, Road safety in Gorakhpur, Traffic Safety, Road safety in India','This study aims to find an overview of driving behavior patterns of road users in Gorakhpur district situated in India. Commuting on road to commute to work and social activities is a necessity in almost every city in India. To relate to accidents statistic, several cases reported show an increasing and disturbing trend. The finding shows that 12.4 percent of drivers are likely to commit errors and 8.9 percent shows the tendency of critical driving behavior. Most of the literature found that both groups of driver’s behaviors are statically significant towards road fatalities [20, 21, 22] Even though the study found that the percentages of drivers who commit errors and violations are small, but they cannot leave because they use road networks on daily basis to do their work and for their other social responsibilities. If talking about demographic relationship, young male drivers have higher tendency to do ordinary errors and aggressive violations. Although the education level does not indicate a significant effect on any driving pattern, the vehicles used by drivers and according to their marital status, at least, proves that lapses are mostly committed by drivers of buses and trucks and singles. Lapses can be avoided by enforcing vehicle maker to equip with the latest technology such as reverse automatic sensor, remote sensing and others. Government should also run road safety awareness campaign among new drivers having driving experience less than 2 years.','-','Gupta, Ashutosh and Mishra, A. K. (2020). Driver Behavior as Road Safety Indicator– A Case Study of Gorakhpur, Uttar Pradesh, India. International Journal on Emerging Technologies, 11(5): 724–733.'),(2687,'82','Effect of Socio-Economic Profile of Drivers on their Critical Driving Behavior : A Questionnaire based Study\r\n\r\n','Ashutosh Gupta and A. K. Mishra','108 Effect of Socio-Economic Profile of Drivers on their Critical Driving Behavior A Questionnaire based Study.pdf','',1,'','','','',''),(2688,'97','DNA Barcoding and Biocontrol strategies for the\r\nimprovement of Traditional Paddy varieties\r\n(TRVs) of Tamil Nadu, India','Veluswamy Karthikeyan*, A. Ramya, P. Anbin Soniya, T. Suresh\r\nKumar, B. Sudha Rajalakshmi, A. Divya Bharathi','6_JNBR.pdf','',1,'','','','',''),(2689,'92','Influence of Growth Regulators on Growth and Yield of Finger millet (Eleucine coracana L.) varieties','Ashwini S.*, Shikha Singh and M.R. Meshram','Influence of Growth Regulators on Growth and Yield of Finger millet Eleucine coracana L. varieties Ashwini S. 670.pdf','',1,'Growth regulators can improve the physiological efficiency including photosynthetic ability and may improve the physiological efficiency and may play a significant role in raising the productivity of the crop. A field experiment was conducted during Kharif season 2020 at Crop Research Farm (CRF), Department of Agronomy, SHUATS, Prayagraj (U.P.) on sandy loam soil to investigate the response of growth regulators on Finger millet (Eleucine coracana L.) varieties under eastern humid UP condition. The treatments consisted of three varieties viz., GPU-28, MR-1 and ML-365 and Plant growth regulators viz., Boric acid 3000 ppm, Salicylic acid 40 ppm and Gibberellic acid 50 ppm. The experiment was laid out in randomized block design with ten treatments replicated thrice. Study revealed that treatment ML-365 + Gibberellic acid 50 ppm was recorded significantly higher plant height (77.41 cm), number of tillers (243.95), dry matter accumulation (435.14 g/m2), number of effective tillers (242.20), ','Finger millet, Growth regulator, Varieties, Yield, Economic','As per findings of the experiment it is concluded that for better yield and return treatment combination of ML-365 + GA3 50 ppm gave maximum growth and yield response, hence for better yield and economic return variety ML-365 with foliar application of Gibberellic acid 50 ppm is recommended for receiving higher yield and returns of finger millet under eastern UP condition.','-','Ashwini, S., Singh, S. and Meshram, M.R. (2021). Influence of Growth Regulators on Growth and Yield of Finger millet (Eleucine coracana L.) varieties. Biological Forum â€“ An International Journal, 13(1): 154-159.'),(2690,'92','Role of Cultivated Mushrooms in Bioremediation: A Review','Sachitanand Das, Siddhanta Kumar Bisoyi, Anmoldeep, Debasis Pattnaik and Seweta Srivastava*','Role of Cultivated Mushrooms in Bioremediation A Review Dr. Seweta Srivastava 678.pdf','',1,'Environmental pollution with synthetic organic compounds has become a hazardous issue world-wide. Thus, efforts are greatly required for bioremediation of soil pollutants and for the present scenario of excessive use of harmful chemicals. A rapid cost effective and ecologically responsible method of clean-up is â€œbioremediationâ€ which utilizes micro-organisms to degrade toxic pollutants is an efficient economical approach. It has been exposed newly that the mycelia of edible mushroom will hit a great performance within the reclamation of defective surroundings (myco-restoration) through myco-filtration (using mycelia to filter water or mycelia area unit used as a filter to get rid of cyanogenic materials and microorganisms from water within the soil), myco-forestry, mycoremediation, and myco-pesticides. As we all know that mushroom forming fungi, are amongst nature\'s most powerful decomposers, secreting strong extra cellular enzymes due to their aggressive growth and biomass product','Biodegradation, Bioremediation, Fungi, Mushrooms, Pollutants','As we all know due to the powerful enzymatic activities as well as high adaptability under physically harsh conditions, microbial bioremediation and biodegradation is one of the most focused research areas for sustainable developments. \r\n\r\n\r\n\r\nSo, as per the above contexts, it is concluded that mushroom cultivation got much more attention in the field of biodegradation and bioremediation research. The use of mushrooms with beneficial bacterial strain could help to degrade pollutants at faster rates. For future prospects, identification of such genes that are responsible for biodegradation of pollutants and the introduction of such genes to the indigenous strain could solve the availability of capable strain under field conditions. For future research, there is critical need to make connection among the researchers of interdisciplinary research fields like biotechnology, microbiology, chemistry, and genetic engineering could help to develop a successful technique for bioremediations.\r\n','-','Das, S., Bisoyi, S.K., Anmoldeep, Pattnaik, D. and Srivastava, S. (2021). Role of Cultivated Mushrooms in Bioremediation: A Review. Biological Forum â€“ An International Journal, 13(1): 160-168.'),(2691,'92','Evaluation of Chrysanthemum (Dendranthema grandiflora Tzvelev) Genotypes for Plant Growth Characters','Sonia Singh and A.K. Godara','28 Evaluation of Chrysanthemum _Dendranthema grandiflora Tzvelev Genotypes for Plant Growth Characters Sonia Singh 713a.pdf','',1,'The study was carried out on 30 genotypes of Chrysanthemum in Department of Horticulture, CCS Haryana Agricultural University, Hisar during 2019-2020. The results of the study revealed that among 30 genotypes, three genotypes were found dwarf (<30cm), twelve medium (30-40 cm) and fifteen were tall (>40cm). Similarly, plant spread in twelve genotypes was less (<25 cm), medium (25-35cm) in eleven and more (>35cm) in seven genotypes. Stem diameter was found less (<0.5 cm) in ten genotypes, medium (0.5 to 1.0cm) in eighteen and more (>1.0cm) in two genotypes. The stalk length was found small (< 5cm) in five genotypes, medium (5-10 cm) in twenty one and big (>10 cm) in four genotypes. Number of primary branches per plant was found less (<5) in five, medium (5-10) in fifteen and more (>10) in ten genotypes. Fresh weight of plant was found less (<150 g) in seven, medium (150-300g) in sixteen and more (>330 g) in seven genotypes. Dry weight of plant was found less (<50g) in four, medium (50-10','Chrysanthemum, genotypes, flowering characters, Growth parameters','The study was carried out on 30 genotypes of Chrysanthemum in Department of Horticulture, CCS Haryana Agricultural University, Hisar during 2019-2020. The results of the study revealed that among 30 genotypes, three genotypes were found dwarf (<30cm), twelve medium (30-40 cm) and fifteen were tall (>40cm). Similarly, plant spread in twelve genotypes was less (<25 cm), medium (25-35cm) in eleven and more (>35cm) in seven genotypes. Stem diameter was found less (<0.5 cm) in ten genotypes, medium (0.5 to 1.0cm) in eighteen and more (>1.0cm) in two genotypes. The stalk length was found small (< 5cm) in five genotypes, medium (5-10 cm) in twenty one and big (>10 cm) in four genotypes. Number of primary branches per plant was found less (<5) in five, medium (5-10) in fifteen and more (>10) in ten genotypes. Fresh weight of plant was found less (<150 g) in seven, medium (150-300g) in sixteen and more (>330 g) in seven genotypes. Dry weight of plant was found less (<50g) in four, medium (50-10','-','Singh, Sonia, Godara, A.K. and Sheokand, R.S. (2021). Evaluation of chrysanthemum (Dendranthema grandiflora Tzvelev) Genotypes for Plant Growth characters. Biological Forum â€“ An International Journal, 13(1): 169-175.'),(2692,'92','Evaluation of Antimony Induced Yield Shift Attributes in Mustard\r\n\r\n','Chiter Mani and Prasann Kumar*','29 Evaluation of Antimony Induced Yield Shift Attributes in Mustard Prasann Kumar 677.pdf','',1,'Due to various anthropogenic emission activities, antimony (Sb) concentration is gradually rising day by day in the agricultural system. The intake of Sb is more on those soils which are having high contamination in the form of soil soluble Sb. Antimony is a lustrous grey metalloid that is to be present in nature in the form of Sulfide mineral stibnite (Sb2S3). Sb is a toxic trace element and it has wider scopes in terms of research as there is very less work is done on the soil contaminated with metalloids like antimony, arsenic, etc. Antimony is found to be less toxic when compared to other elements like arsenic. During our research crop trial, we apply the salt of Antimony potassium tartrate hemihydrate (100 ppm) in solution form individually and also in combination with Trichoderma hamatum. 6 gram of Trichoderma hamatum is applied to the pot. Various parameters viz; Pod per plant, Siliqua length, Weight per pod, Seed per pod, Chlorophyll index of pods are taken into account to chec','Antimony, Biotic, Crop, Density, Pot, Mustard, Trichoderma','Due to various anthropogenic emission activities, antimony (Sb) concentration is gradually rising day by day in the agricultural system. The intake of Sb is more on those soils which are having high contamination in the form of soil soluble Sb. Antimony is a lustrous grey metalloid that is to be present in nature in the form of Sulfide mineral stibnite (Sb2S3). Sb is a toxic trace element and it has wider scopes in terms of research as there is very less work is done on the soil contaminated with metalloids like antimony, arsenic, etc. Antimony is found to be less toxic when compared to other elements like arsenic. During our research crop trial, we apply the salt of Antimony potassium tartrate hemihydrate (100 ppm) in solution form individually and also in combination with Trichoderma hamatum. 6 gram of Trichoderma hamatum is applied to the pot. Various parameters viz; Pod per plant, Siliqua length, Weight per pod, Seed per pod, Chlorophyll index of pods are taken into account to chec','-','Mani, C. and Kumar, P. (2021). Evaluation of Antimony Induced Yield Shift Attributes in Mustard. Biological Forum â€“ An International Journal, 13(1): 176-180.'),(2693,'92','Evaluation of Physiochemical Properties of Honey of Apis mellifera (Himachal Pradesh): A Comparison with Apis dorsata','Ankush Sharma, Shagun Rana, Ruchika, Pranita Sharma and Meenakshi Sharma','30 Evaluation of Physiochemical Properties of Honey of Apis mellifera _Himachal Pradesh_ A Comparison with Apis dorsata Dr. Meenakshi Sharma 693.pdf','',1,'Evaluation of honey quality is an important area of research which aimed at preventing falsification and likewise the physiochemical data of honey is desired for its proper storage and marketing. The present study aimed to analyze physiochemical properties of honey from Apis mellifera and Apis dorsata. Physical parameters such as pH, moisture content, electrical conductivity, acidity, specific gravity, ash content, color range and colour analysis were determined. Biochemical parameters in terms of total carbohydrates, total reducing sugar, reducing sugar, fructose, sucrose, glucose, fructose/glucose ratio were examined. Significant differences (p<0.05 and p<0.001) were remarked in physiochemical properties. This was our first attempt to compare the properties of honey obtained from Nagrota Bagwan bee and wild origin bee. The results were comparable with reports from many parts of the world and also within the limits of international standards.','Apis mellifera; Apis dorsata; Physiochemical analysis; Quality; Storage','To our knowledge, this is the first time that the physiochemical properties of honey obtained from Nagrota Bagwan bee (A. mellifera) were analysed and compared with the honey obtained from honey bee (A. dorsata) of wild origin. The values of the majority of these parameters were widely within the Codex standard for honeys (Alimentarius, 2001) and also considered for freshness index of honey. Both the honey samples has good quality storage capacity and were found to be good for marketing.','-','Sharma, A., Rana, S., Ruchika, Sharma, P. and Sharma, M. (2021). Evaluation of Physiochemical Properties of Honey of Apis mellifera (Himachal Pradesh): A Comparison with Apis dorsata. Biological Forum â€“ An International Journal, 13(1): 181-185.'),(2694,'90','Assessment of the Genetic Diversity of Maize Genotypes under Heat Stress','Muhammad Saeed, Aamer Mumtaz, Dilbar Hussain, Muhammad Arshad, Muhammad Irfan Yousaf, Muhammad Husnain Bhatti, Asrar Mahboob, Javed Iqbal and Muhammad Umer Khalid','39 Assessment of the Genetic Diversity of Maize Genotypes under Heat Stress Muhammad Saeed 3347.pdf','',1,'','','','',''),(2695,'90','Effects of Corruption on Infrastructure Projects in Developing Countries','Nouman Khadim, Syed Taseer Abbas Jaffar, Muhammad Ali Musarat and Usman Ilyas','40 Effects of Corruption on Infrastructure Projects in Developing Countries Nouman Khadim 3540.pdf','',1,'','','','',''),(2696,'92','Response of Plant Growth Regulators and Micronutrients on Growth, Yield of Cowpea (Vigna unguiculata L.)','Korukonda Leelavathi, Umesha C., Vikram Singh, Sachchida Nand Singh, Appana Bharathi and Gaddam Raju','31 Response of Plant Growth Regulators and Micronutrients on Growth, Yield of Cowpea Vigna unguiculata L. Korukonda Leelavathi.pdf','',1,'The field experiment was conducted during kharif 2020 at Crop Research Farm, Department of Agronomy, SHUATS, Prayagraj, Uttar Pradesh, to study the response of plant growth regulators and micronutrients on growth, yield of Cowpea (Vigna unguiculata L.). The treatments consist of seven plant growth regulators (Superzyme gold, Root master. Superzyme, Boost, Americana, Sea bomb) and one micronutrient (Microl-F), and one respective control was used. The Experiment was designed in Randomized Block Design consists of eight treatments each replicated thrice. It was observed that T3 Superzyme 900 ml/ha foliar spray at 25 and 45 Day after sowing was recorded as best treatment for obtaining growth and yield attributes such as plant height (122.72 cm), number of branches per plant (5.90), pods per plant (11.60), seed yield (903.03 kg/ha), stover yield (1423.33 kg/ha). While net returns (90,514.50 INR/ha) and B:C ratio (2.0) were also observed with the application of Superzyme 900 ml/ha foliar spr','Plant growth regulators, Micronutrients, Foliar spray, Growth, Yield','The field experiment was conducted during kharif 2020 at Crop Research Farm, Department of Agronomy, SHUATS, Prayagraj, Uttar Pradesh, to study the response of plant growth regulators and micronutrients on growth, yield of Cowpea (Vigna unguiculata L.). The treatments consist of seven plant growth regulators (Superzyme gold, Root master. Superzyme, Boost, Americana, Sea bomb) and one micronutrient (Microl-F), and one respective control was used. The Experiment was designed in Randomized Block Design consists of eight treatments each replicated thrice. It was observed that T3 Superzyme 900 ml/ha foliar spray at 25 and 45 Day after sowing was recorded as best treatment for obtaining growth and yield attributes such as plant height (122.72 cm), number of branches per plant (5.90), pods per plant (11.60), seed yield (903.03 kg/ha), stover yield (1423.33 kg/ha). While net returns (90,514.50 INR/ha) and B:C ratio (2.0) were also observed with the application of Superzyme 900 ml/ha foliar spr','-','Leelavathi, K., Umesha, C., Singh, V., Singh, S.N., Bharathi, A. and Raju, G. (2021). Response of Plant Growth Regulators and Micronutrients on Growth, Yield of Cowpea (Vigna unguiculata L.). Biological Forum â€“ An International Journal, 13(1): 186-190'),(2697,'92','Patho-epidemiological Study of Chronic Respiratory Disease of Poultry in Gonda District of Uttar Pradesh ','Rakesh Kumar Gupta,Debasish Niyogi, Namita Joshi, Rajesh Kumar Joshi, Jaswant Singh, Abhishek Mishra1, Awadhesh Kumar Yadav1and Desh Deepak Singh','32 Patho-epidemiological Study of Chronic Respiratory Disease of Poultry in Gonda District of Uttar Pradesh Rakesh Kumar Gupta 725.pdf','',1,'Chronic respiratory disease is one of the important disease of poultry characterized by manifestation of respiratory signs, decreased egg production, reduced hatchability rates, altered reproductive efficiency of layers and downgrading of carcasses at slaughter. The patho-epidemiological investigation was carried out to know the incidence and mortality pattern in poultry affected with chronic respiratory disease in Gonda district of Uttar Pradesh. The naturally dead birds from eight private farms were collected from October, 2018 to March, 2019. The overall incidence was 12.64% with mortality of 9.10%. Grossly, trachea revealed congestion and haemorrhages with catarrhal exudates. Microscopically, trachea revealed thick layer of necrotic material in tracheal lumen with lymphocytic aggregation. Air sacs were covered with caseous exudates and microscopically showed necrotic material with lymphocytic infiltration. Macroscopically, lungs appeared dark red colour showing congestion and haemo','Patho-epidemiology, Gonda, Chronic Respiratory Disease, Uttar Pradesh','Chronic respiratory disease is one of the important disease of poultry characterized by manifestation of respiratory signs, decreased egg production, reduced hatchability rates, altered reproductive efficiency of layers and downgrading of carcasses at slaughter. The patho-epidemiological investigation was carried out to know the incidence and mortality pattern in poultry affected with chronic respiratory disease in Gonda district of Uttar Pradesh. The naturally dead birds from eight private farms were collected from October, 2018 to March, 2019. The overall incidence was 12.64% with mortality of 9.10%. Grossly, trachea revealed congestion and haemorrhages with catarrhal exudates. Microscopically, trachea revealed thick layer of necrotic material in tracheal lumen with lymphocytic aggregation. Air sacs were covered with caseous exudates and microscopically showed necrotic material with lymphocytic infiltration. Macroscopically, lungs appeared dark red colour showing congestion and haemo','-','Gupta, R.K., Niyogi, D., Joshi, N., Joshi, R.K., Singh, J., Mishra, A., Yadav, A.K. and Singh, D.D. (2021). Patho-epidemiological Study of Chronic Respiratory Disease of Poultry in Gonda District of Uttar Pradesh. Biological Forum â€“ An International '),(2698,'92','Effect of Organic and Inorganic Seed Treatments on Plant Growth and Yield in Mustard (Brassica juncea L.)','A. Sreenivasasareddy and A.K. Chaurasia','33 Effect of Organic and Inorganic Seed Treatments on Plant Growth and Yield in Mustard Brassica juncea L. A. Sreenivasasareddy 697.pdf','',1,'To standardize the priming method specific to tomato, the experiment was conducted during\r\nthe Rabi season in 2020 at Sam Higgim bottom University of Agriculture, Technology and Science, Prayagraj\r\n(UP), Department of Postgraduate Laboratory, Department of Genetics and Plant Breeding, Lower. var.\r\nPusa rub). Thirteenth treatments viz., T0-Control, T1-PEG6000(5% for 12 hrs), T2-PEG6000(10% for 12\r\nhrs), T3-Manitol (5% for 12 hrs), T4-Manitol(10% for 12 hrs), T5-KCl(3% for 12 hrs ), T6-KCl(5% for 12\r\nhrs), T7-KNO3(3% for 12 hrs), T8-KNO3(5% for 12 hrs), T9-Sea weed extract(1% for 12 hrs), T10-Sea weed\r\nextract (5% for 12 hrs), T11-Coconut water (1% for 12 hrs) and T12-Coconut water (3% for 12 hrs). The\r\nexperiment and study indicated interesting and different outcomes for each treatment performed. It is clear\r\nfrom the first stage which treatments are the best and the shortest time to germinate is observed. It is\r\nfascinating to see that other treatments work best compared to control. Ea','PEG, KCl, -KNO, growth, yield and Mustard','To standardize the priming method specific to tomato, the experiment was conducted during\r\nthe Rabi season in 2020 at Sam Higgim bottom University of Agriculture, Technology and Science, Prayagraj\r\n(UP), Department of Postgraduate Laboratory, Department of Genetics and Plant Breeding, Lower. var.\r\nPusa rub). Thirteenth treatments viz., T0-Control, T1-PEG6000(5% for 12 hrs), T2-PEG6000(10% for 12\r\nhrs), T3-Manitol (5% for 12 hrs), T4-Manitol(10% for 12 hrs), T5-KCl(3% for 12 hrs ), T6-KCl(5% for 12\r\nhrs), T7-KNO3(3% for 12 hrs), T8-KNO3(5% for 12 hrs), T9-Sea weed extract(1% for 12 hrs), T10-Sea weed\r\nextract (5% for 12 hrs), T11-Coconut water (1% for 12 hrs) and T12-Coconut water (3% for 12 hrs). The\r\nexperiment and study indicated interesting and different outcomes for each treatment performed. It is clear\r\nfrom the first stage which treatments are the best and the shortest time to germinate is observed. It is\r\nfascinating to see that other treatments work best compared to control. Ea','-','Sreenivasasareddy, A. and Chaurasia, A.K. (2021). Effect of Organic and Inorganic Seed Treatments\r\non Plant Growth and Yield in Mustard (Brassica juncea L.). Biological Forum â€“ An International Journal, 13(1): 196-199.'),(2699,'90','Phytol Anti-oxidative and Anti-inflammatory Effects in Hydrogen Peroxide Challenged Human PMBCs Involves NFÎºB Pathway\r\n\r\n','Jawaid Ahmed Zai1, Muhammad Rashid Khan, Zaib-Un-Nisa Mughal, Falak Sher Khan \r\n and Noorulain Soomro','41 Phytol Anti-oxidative and Anti-inflammatory Effects in Hydrogen Peroxide Challenged Human PMBCs Involves NFÎºB Pathway Jawaid Ahmed Zai 3564.pdf','',1,'','','','',''),(2700,'99','Effect of Gypsum Board Ceiling on Temperature Reduction in a Room using Finite Element Method\r\n\r\n','R. Baroniya, R. Rathore and A. Agrawal','2 Effect of Gypsum Board Ceiling on Temperature Reduction in a Room using Finite Element Method R.pdf','',1,'','','','',''),(2701,'99','Optimized Parameters Prediction for Single-Pass Friction Stir Welding on Dissimilar Aluminium Alloys T- Joint\r\n\r\n','Dhanesh G. Mohan and Gopi S.','3 Optimized Parameters Prediction for Single-Pass Friction Stir Welding on Dissimilar Aluminium Alloys T- Joint Dr.pdf','',1,'','','','',''),(2702,'92','Soil Suitability of Some Major Fruit Crops for Sustainable Production in the IGP Region of India-A Case Study','Ashok Kumar, S.K. Mahapatra and Jaya N. Surya','Soil Suitability of Some Major Fruit Crops for Sustainable Production in the IGP Region of India-A Case Study Ashok Kumar 700.pdf','',1,'Horticultural crops, particularly the fruit crops are important for ensuring nutritional security as well as livelihood security. However, the fruit crops occupy less area compare to cereals and other agricultural crops and the declining landholdings size due to fast population growth and urbanization further jeopardize the area under fruit crops. Thus, for ensuring effective and efficient utilization of the lands possibilities of alternate land use options such as fruits crop cultivation need to be explored. In this context, land evaluation in terms of soil suitability assessment is an important tool for identifying suitable areas for fruit crop production. But lack of information on soil-site suitability poses great challenge to the policy planners and other development agencies. Thus, the study was carried out in the Chhata tehsil of upper Indo-Gangetic Plain (IGP) region of IGP of India with the aim of mapping the suitable areas for various agro-horticultural crops including the fr','IGP region; fruit crops; soil suitability; sustainable production','The study aims to evaluate the actual soil and site parameters which affect the suitability of various fruit crops for sustainable production. The most prominent soil parameters include texture, depth, slope, EC, pH, OC content, erosion and drainage while, rainfall and temperature are the most important climate parameters that affects the suitability of an area for crop production. Soils of the study area are very deep except Barsana soil series, slightly acidic to strongly alkaline in reaction, non-saline to saline, low in organic carbon and low to medium in CEC and base saturation. Soil suitability evaluation reveals that among the fruit crops, papaya and mango have maximum area i.e., 60.9 and 22.2%, respectively under highly suitable class (S1). However, area under moderately suitable class (S2) observed to be highest for citrus (83.1%) and ber crop (74.4%) cultivation. About 59.3 and 54.3% area evaluated to be under marginally suitable class (S3) for mango and guava cultivation. Pr','-','Kumar, A., Mahapatra, S.K. and Surya, J. N. (2021). Soil Suitability of Some Major Fruit Crops for Sustainable Production in the IGP Region of India-A Case Study. Biological Forum â€“ An International Journal, 13(1): 200-210.'),(2703,'92','Introgression of Tomato Leaf Curl Virus (ToLCV) Resistant Gene into two Cultivated Tomato (Solanum lycopersicum L.) Varieties through Marker Assisted Backcross Breeding','B.A. Sowjanya*and O. Sridevi','Introgression of Tomato Leaf Curl Virus _ToLCV_ Resistant Gene into two Cultivated Tomato _Solanum lycopersicum L._ Varieties through Marker Assisted Backcross Breeding Sowjanya, B. A. 686.pdf','',1,'Tomato (Solanum lycopersicum L.) is widely grown in the tropical and subtropical regions of the world but its growth and production is limited because of most of the diseases. Among all the diseases ToLCV is a devastating disease worldwide causing complete yield loss in affected area. So far, resistance to begomoviruses in tomato has been achieved using wild species, and at least six resistance genes have been studied. The complex epidemiological factors associated with this disease, such as broad host range, high rates of virus evolution and the migratory behaviour of whiteflies make it difficult to develop effective long-term management strategies. Therefore, breeding resistance to this viral disease in tomato cultivars is an essential element of a sustainable approach in managing the diseases caused by begomoviruses. The present study was undertaken to introgress Ty-2 conferring resistance to monopartite begomovirus into two cultivated varieties (GPBT-08 and DMT-2) from two donors i','tomato, ToLCV, MABB, Ty-2, Foreground selection, Background selection.','The results of the present study, in general, provides evidence of accuracy and reliability for the TG0302 and P1-16 markers to be applied directly to large-scale MABC programmes for the development of high-yielding leaf curl resistant varieties. Within only two backcross generations, at least 90% of the recurrent parentsâ€™ genomes were recovered, and leaf curl resistant NILs were developed, demonstrating that introgression of Ty-2 gene with MABC breeding is much faster than that of conventional breeding. For the most part, the developed fragrant NILs showed better yield-related traits than the donor parents CLN2768A and CLN2777H, possessing a similar yield potential with the recurrent parents GPBT-08 and DMT-2. The present study has overall, provided a clear, fast, and yet affordable route to introgressing Ty-2 gene into tomato lines or varieties, and this would benefit researchers especially those with limited resources.','-','Sowjanya, B.A. and Sridevi, O. (2021). Introgression of Tomato Leaf Curl Virus (ToLCV) Resistant Gene into two Cultivated Tomato (Solanum lycopersicum L.) Varieties through Marker Assisted Backcross Breeding. Biological Forum â€“ An International Journal'),(2704,'92','Influence of Foliar Application of Gibberalic Acid on Growth, Yield and Economics of Pigeonpea (Cajanus cajan L.)','Rajesh Kumar and S.C. Sharma','36 Influence of Foliar Application of Gibberalic Acid on Growth, Yield and Economics of Pigeonpea Cajanus cajan L. Rajesh Kumar 729.pdf','',1,'An experiment was conducted during kharif 2019-20 at Agriculture Research Station, Rajasthan to find out the impact of foliar application of gibberalic acid on growth, yield and economics of pigeon pea. The experiment was laid out in a Randomized Block Design with eleven treatments which were replicated thrice The results showed that treatment GA3 @ 75 ppm at flower initiation & pod initiation stages resulted maximum grain yield (1270 kg/ha) and proved significantly superior to control, Water spray at flower initiation (FI) and pod initiation stages (PI), GA3 @ 25 ppm at FI stage and GA3 @ 25 ppm at FI stage. Maximum net return (Rs. 36000/-) was obtained with the GA3 @ 50 ppm at FI & PI stages and Maximum B: C ratio (2.04) was obtained with GA3 @ 25 ppm at flower initiation & pod initiation stages. ','Pigeonpea, GA3, foliar application, Correlation and regression','Based on the finding of the investigation it may be concluded that for obtaining optimum grain yield of pigeonpea with treatment GA3 @ 75 ppm at flower initiation stage is the best management practice. Whereas, optimum net return can be achieved with the foliar application of GA3 @ 50 ppm at flower initiation & pod initiation stages.','-','Kumar, R. and Sharma, S.C. (2021). Influence of Foliar Application of Gibberalic Acid on Growth, Yield and Economics of Pigeonpea (Cajanus cajan L.). Biological Forum â€“ An International Journal, 13(1): 227-231'),(2705,'90','A Comprehensive Review on the Application of Diagnostic Expert Systems in the Field of Agriculture\r\n\r\n','Husnain Saleem, Abdur Rashid Khan, Tehseen Ali Jilani, Javaria Sherani, Umar Khitab Saddozai, Muhammad Saleem Jilani, Muhammad Naveed Anjum4, Kashif Waseem and Sami Ullah','42 A Comprehensive Review on the Application of Diagnostic Expert Systems in the Field of Agriculture Dr.pdf','',1,'','','','',''),(2706,'90','Using the Theory of Planned Behavior to Identify the Behavioral Intention to use Public Transportation Service: The Case Study of Karachi Circular Railway\r\n\r\n','Shaharyar Brohi, Saima Kalwar, Irfan Ahmed Memon and Abdul Ghaffar','43 Using the Theory of Planned Behavior to Identify the Behavioral Intention to use Public Transportation Service The Case Study of Karachi Circular Railway Dr.pdf','',1,'','','','',''),(2708,'90','Flood in the Central Region of Vietnam, Implications in Sustainable Development\r\n\r\n','Le Canh Tuan and Nguyen Thi Phuong Thanh','Flood in the Central Region of Vietnam, Implications in Sustainable Development Le Canh Tuan 3545.pdf','',1,'','','','',''),(2709,'99','Anatomical Studies of Miocene Dicot Wood of Fabaceae Excavated from Ranikot (paleo-forest) Jamshoro, Sindh, Pakistan\r\n\r\n','Noorulain Soomro, Jamal Uddin Mangi, Ghulam Hussain Jatoi, Farooque Ali Bhugio, Fahim Arshad and Shahnawaz Khuhro','4 Anatomical Studies of Miocene Dicot Wood of Fabaceae Excavated from Ranikot _paleo-forest_ Jamshoro, Sindh, Pakistan Dr.pdf','',1,'','','','',''),(2710,'99','Analysis of Urban Park Uses by Sociotope Mapping in Korangi Town, Karachi, Pakistan\r\n\r\n','Afrae Zunaira, Saima Kalwar, Noman Sahito and Irfan Ahmed Memon','5 Analysis of Urban Park Uses by Sociotope Mapping in Korangi Town, Karachi, Pakistan Nauman Sahito 3575.pdf','',1,'','','','',''),(2711,'92','BioControl Agents - Antagonistic Magicians against Soil Borne Pathogens: A Review','Ankit Kumar Upadhyay, Sai Ram Bandi and Peddagoud Devi Maruthi','37 BioControl Agents - Antagonistic Magicians against soil borne pathogens A Review Ankit Kumar Upadhyay 688.pdf','',1,'Biological control agents are the core to Integrated Pest and Disease Management (IPDM) strategy with a defined objective of sustainable agriculture. With the current food production strategy involving lots of chemical input raised the cost of produce and threat to the environment leading to the foundation of biological management practices. Various groups of bioControl agents viz. Bacillus spp., Pseudomonas spp., Streptomyces spp., Trichoderma spp.etc has been shown to have profound effect against soil-borne pathogen being highly race specific. Their efficacy can be explored in one or the other way like showing Hyperparasitism, Antibiotics (Plipastatins), Induced Systemic Resistance (ISR) like Î²-1,3 glucanase by Bacillus mycoides. Several known secondary metabolites like Gliotoxin in case of Trichoderma spp., 2,4-diacetylphloroglucinol (DAPG) in case of Pseudomonas spp. are found to be antagonistic against a wide range of soil borne pathogen viz. Rhizoctonia spp., Verticillium spp. ','Pseudomonas spp., Trichoderma spp., ISR, SAR, Secondary metabolite, Soil Borne Pathogen','BioControl agents are the most important and efficient source to tackle the diseases caused by soil borne pathogens. Since control of soil borne pathogens is not possible by traditional chemical methods, using bioControl agents are only hope rather than going for other management practices such as soil solarization. BioControl agents use various mechanisms to suppress the growth of bioControl agents which include, induction of CAMPâ€™S AND MAMPâ€™S which stimulate the resistance against pathogens, competing for food and nutrients against pathogens, parasitic nature upon the host pathogen and obtain nutrients from it, production of various secondary metabolites which affect the growth and development of pathogens. Since the resistance of soil borne pathogens against various mechanisms performed by bioControl agents are less reported, use of bioControl agents can be a potential tool to control soil borne pathogens for long term. In agro-ecology point of view, use of chemical methods affe','-','Upadhyay, A.K., Bandi, S.R. and Maruthi, P.D. (2021). BioControl Agents - Antagonistic Magicians against soil borne pathogens: A Review. Biological Forum â€“ An International Journal, 13(1): 232-242.'),(2712,'92','Cost and Return Analysis of Organic Crops for Sustainable Livelihood Security of Small & Marginal Farmers','Narinder Panotra, Vikas Shamra, Anil Bhat and Lakshmi Kant Sharma','38 Cost and Return Analysis of Organic Crops for Sustainable Livelihood Security of Small & Marginal Farmers Dr. Narinder Panotra 727.pdf','',1,'Organic farming has the potential to provide benefits in terms of environmental protection, conservation of non-renewable resources and improved food quality. But it needs to overcome challenges like low yield during initial years of conversion and government support to help farmers in the production as well as marketing process. The present investigation Cost and Return Analysis of Organic Crops were carried out in the field experiments conducted at Organic Farming Research Centre, SKUAST-Jammu, Chatha during 2016-17, 2017-2018 and 2018-2019. CACP cost concepts and economic viability tools are used for analysis of the data. Per hectare gross returns and net returns for Basmati 370 was found to be Rs. 79200.00 and Rs. 52556.75, respectively whereas for Moong, Mash and Toria, gross returns was found to be Rs. 60750.00, Rs. 45840.00 and Rs. 28200.00, respectively and net returns of Rs. 38003.85, Rs. 22484.85 and Rs. 16720.85, respectively. The benefit cost ratio was found to be 1:2.97 w','Organic Farming, Cost and Return Analysis, Sustainable Agriculture','This study investigates the cost and returns of organic Basmati rice and organic pulses in Organic Farm Research Centre, Chatha. The total variable cost per hectare of Basmati was found to be Rs. 26643.75 and in case of Moong SML 668, Mash 1008 and Toria (RSPT-1), it was found to be Rs. 22410.00, Rs. 23010.00 and Rs. 11310.00, respectively. The benefit cost ratio in case of Basmati rice was found to be 1:2.97 which shows that Organic Basmati 370 is more responsive towards the inputs use and under good management and it can give even higher returns. The benefit cost ratio in case of Moong, Mash and Toria was found to be 1:2.67, 1:2.04 and 1:2.46, respectively. It has been worked out that Basmati is a profitable commercial organic crop and is most profitable as compared to organic pulses with average returns of Rs. 52556.75 per hectare acre per year. This study reveals the importance of price as an indicator in the profitability of organic crops. ','-','Panotra, N., Shamra, V., Bhat, A. and Sharma, L.K. (2021). Cost and Return Analysis of Organic Crops for Sustainable Livelihood Security of Small & Marginal Farmers. Biological Forum â€“ An International Journal, 13(1): 243-247.'),(2713,'99','Association of Menstrual Disturbance with Lipid Profile and Food Habits in Female University Students\r\n','Zaib-Un-Nisa Mughal, Jawaid Ahmed Zai, Mehar Ali Kazi, Nazia Parveen Gill, Fatima Wahid Mangrio, Natasha Brohi, Afzal Hussain, Saman Majeed, Aisha Gulab and Rusha Shaikh\r\n','6 Association of Menstrual Disturbance with Lipid Profile and Food Habits in Female University Students Dr.pdf','',1,'','','','',''),(2714,'99','Karst poljes in Viet Nam â€“ The Relationship between Terrain and Geological Structure\r\n\r\n','Le Canh Tuan and Cao Minh Thá»§y','7 Karst poljes in Viet Nam â€“ The Relationship between Terrain and Geological Structure Le Canh Tuan 3560.pdf','',1,'','','','',''),(2717,'90','Case Control Study for Biochemical Abnormalities in Diabetic Cardiovascular Patients of South Punjab Pakistan','Maryam Zain, Tarique Shahzad Chachar, Ayesha Ahmed Sumra, Hafiz Mahmood Azam, Khurshid Ahmed, Sohail Ahmed Otho, Asma Noureen, Khalid Hussain Rind, Najeeb Ullah and Yasir Arfat','45 Case Control Study for Biochemical Abnormalities in Diabetic Cardiovascular Patients of South Punjab Pakistan Maryam Zain 3549.pdf','',1,'','','','',''),(2718,'99','IoT Based Smart Fish Farming Aquaculture Monitoring System','Sohail Karim, Israr Hussain, Aamir Hussain, Kamran Hassan and Semab Iqbal','8 IoT Based Smart Fish Farming Aquaculture Monitoring System Sohail Karim 3461.pdf','',1,'','','','',''),(2719,'92','Marker Assisted Selection and itâ€™s use against Genetic Improvement of Biotic and Abiotic Stress Tolerance in Rice (Oryza sativa L.)','Venkanolla Sruthi, Sanjeev Kumar, Kummethi Lekhasree, D.V. Sravani and G. Rajitha','39 Marker Assisted Selection and itâ€™s use against Genetic Improvement of Biotic and Abiotic Stress Tolerance in Rice Oryza sativa L. Venkanolla Sruthi 715.pdf','',1,'Improving of crop in terms of agronomic characters, yield and also tolerance to stress for feeding the growing population. All though this can be achieved by the conventional breeding but it is time consuming, high cost and presence of linkage drag. To overcome this many researchers started using the molecular techniques like molecular markers. This are tightly linked to the trait of interest which overcomes linkage drag and it can identified during seedling stage only. In this review we discuss about the MAS and its procedure, applications in resistance cultivar development, genetic diversity study and for improvement of quality of crop. How Marker assisted back crossing (MABC) help in improving the cultivars for abiotic and biotic stress tolerance by reducing number of back crossing. All most 70 to 80% yield loss in rice is due to this stress which can be overcome by using the molecular markers (SSR, STS, SNPâ€™s etc), Which are tightly linked to the resistance genes like Pi9(blast)','-','For breeding of cropâ€™s the conventional breeding is not that convenient and it is time taken process which may not help to meet the demand of population, so using of the molecular marker for improving the agronomic, biotic and abiotic characters, also for the major genes or quantitative genes which are depend on environment conditions MAS is best method as marker are not affected by the climate conditions. MAS used for Assaying genetic diversity, purity of cultivars, for selection of parental lines, mainly MABS and gene pyramiding help in transferring the gene to elite cultivars, for the abiotic and abiotic stress tolerance MABC and gene pyramiding help to produce the resistance cultivars. Sub1A gene are cloned to susceptible cultivar, for drought linked QTLâ€™s are highly tolerant, Saltol is R gene for salinity tolerance, For blast Pi9 are most tolerant gene, Bacterial blight mostly combination of gene like X, Xa5, Xa216 are high tolerance then single gene in cultivar this transfer','-','Sruthi, V., Lekhasree, K., Sravani, D.V., Rajitha, G. (2021). Marker Assisted Selection and itâ€™s use against Genetic Improvement of Biotic and Abiotic Stress Tolerance in Rice (Oryza sativa L.). Biological Forum â€“ An International Journal, 13(1): 24'),(2720,'92','Prevalence of Viral diseases of Urdbean in Guntur District of Andhra Pradesh','M. Kasi Rao, M. Adinarayana, A.K. Patibanda and T. Madhumathi','40 Prevalence of Viral diseases of Urdbean in Guntur District of Andhra Pradesh M. Kasi Rao 739.pdf','',1,'Urdbean is one of the important grain legume crops grown in India mainly for protein and nutrition. However, the production and productivity were very little due losses caused by various viral diseases from seedling to harvesting stage. Guntur district being the major pulse region of the Andhra Pradesh annually suffers from incidence of various viral diseases in urdbean. A comprehensive and systematic survey was carried out with the main objective to determine the incidence and prevalence of Mungbean Yellow Mosaic Virus (MYMV) and other viral diseases of urdbean during kharif and rabi 2019-2020 in ten major urdbean growing mandals in Guntur district of Andhra Pradesh. The results revealed a huge variation in incidence of all the viral diseases among the surveyed mandals and also within the mandals. However, the study recorded the highest overall mean incidence and severity of MYMV (13.54% and 20.18% during kharif; 22.08% and 30.32% during rabi) followed by leaf crinkle incidence (17.86','Urdbean, Prevalence, MYMV, Viral diseases.','diseases were observed in all the mandals surveyed in Guntur district of Andhra Pradesh in both kharif and rabi. Further, a huge variation in incidence of all the three diseases of urdbean was recorded. Highest overall mean incidence and severity of MYMV (22.08% and 30.32%) was observed in rabi rather than kharif, whereas the highest overall mean incidence of leaf curl (16.06%) and leaf crinkle (17.86%) was showed in kharif rather than rabi. Based on survey analysis, the study clearly showed that rabi season is more favorable for the incidence and severity of MYMV, whereas kharif season highly congenial for the incidence of leaf curl and leaf crinkle virus. The study concludes that management of viral diseases could be done depending upon the incidence level season based. To minimize the devasting effects of caused by various viruses in urdbean, sustainable vector and disease management options need to be established, tested and deployed including the use of resistant and/or tolerant v','-','Rao, M.K., Adinarayana, M., Patibanda, A.K. and Madhumathi, T. (2021). Prevalence of Viral diseases of Urdbean in Guntur District of Andhra Pradesh. Biological Forum â€“ An International Journal, 13(1): 261-269.'),(2721,'92','Effect of Fertilizer and Micronutrients on Leaf and Fruit Mineral Status of Grapes cv. Sahebi','Aroosa Khalil, Nowsheen Nazir, Shaila Din, M.K. Sharma and Amit Kumar','41 Effect of Fertilizer and Micronutrients on Leaf and Fruit Mineral Status of Grapes cv. Sahebi Shaila Din 721.pdf','',1,'Grapes occupy an important place among the fruit crops. However its productivity in Jammu and Kashmir state is low when compared to other major grape producing states. The main reason for this being the unscientific approach for grape cultivation and inadequate supply of macro as well as micro nutrients leading to reduced quality as well as quantity of the produce. Thus in order to given the proper recommendation of macro and micro nutrients in Grapes an experiment was conducted in model grapevine orchard of department of Horticulture at Kralbagh, Tehsil Lar, Ganderbal on 23-year old vines trained on bower system. Also the effect of these macro and micro-nutrients was assessed on leaf and fruit nutrient status of grapes cv. Sahebi. The treatment consisted of 3-levels of fertilizer doses (F1=FYM 50 kg/vine + Recommended dose of NPK: 555, 227, 470g/vine, F2=FYM 50 kg/vine+ 2 times recommended dose of NPK, F3=FYM 50 kg/vine+ 3 times recommended dose of NPK) and micronutrient treatment als','nutrients, fertilizer, leaf petiole, fruit mineral, Micronutrients on Leaf.','Thus it can be concluded from the present investigation that applying the fertilizer dose, F2 (FYM-50 kg/vine + 2 times recommended dose-NPK: 1110, 454, 940 g/vine) and micronutrient M1 (solubor -0.1%) were most effective in improving fruit and the leaf mineral status of grape cv. Sahebi. In future fertigation schedules with these recommended doses need to be standardized. Also further research is needed to compare between the efficacy of fertilizers applied through irrigation water (fertigation) with that of conventional method (direct soil application) in grapes.','-','Khalil, A., Nazir, N., Din, S., Sharma, M.K. and Kumar, A. (2021). Effect of Fertilizer and Micronutrients on Leaf and Fruit Mineral Status of Grapes cv. Sahebi. Biological Forum â€“ An International Journal, 13(1): 270-276.'),(2722,'92','Physiological Stress in Agricultural Crops: An Overview','Yaman and Prasann Kumar','42 Physiological Stress in Agricultural Crops An Overview Prasann Kumar 699.pdf','',1,'Plants face a lot of stress during their growth period, which affects their physiology and disrupts their homeostasis. Stress in crop plants can be defined as any change in the external environment that has a very negative impact on crop growth and development. Plant stress can be divided into two main categories, such as abiotic stress and biotic stress. These two stresses limit the sustainability of agricultural production because they adversely affect all plant metabolic activities. Abiotic stresses such as drought, salinity, heavy metal stress, flooding, low and high-temperature stress, etc. reduce crop quality and productivity. Biotic stress, on the other hand, includes diseases caused by fungi, bacteria, viruses and nematodes. The plantâ€™s response to these stresses is a very complex process. Some plants have the potential to withstand physiological stress due to their morphological, physiological and biochemical activities. However, most plants do not tolerate these stresses be','Abiotic, Biotic, Climate, Drought, Environment, Flooding, Homeostasis, Resistance, Salinity, Temperature ','Due to an increase in the world population, there is a greater need to produce a high amount of food grains to sustain food security. During the plant growth period, it faces several stresses, which reduces its growth and development. There are two types of stresses such as biotic stress and abiotic stress. Both have the potential to cause a huge reduction in crop yield and crop quality. All the physiological and biochemical activities of the plants severely affected. Abiotic stress like drought stress, flooding, heavy metal stress and temperature stress (low and high temperature). A prolonged period without rain leads to drought or water stress. Due to the water deficiency, plant also fails to uptake the nutrients because there is a disturbance in the transpiration process. The drought stress inside the phospholipid bilayer leads to the protein displacement in the cell membrane. Soil salinity causes two main effects on plants such as osmotic stress and ionic toxicity. Osmotic pressure','-','Yaman and Kumar, P. (2021). Physiological Stress in Agricultural Crops: An Overview. Biological Forum â€“ An International Journal, 13(1): 277-292.'),(2723,'92','Cotton Bed: An Eco friendly Tool for Eliminating Agrobacterium tumefaciens in Sugarcane Transformation','Niraj Nath Tiwari and Sujeet Pratap Singh','43 Cotton Bed An Eco friendly Tool for Eliminating Agrobacterium tumefaciens in Sugarcane Transformation Niraj Nath Tiwari 732 Copy.pdf','',1,'Agrobacterium tumefaciens mediated genetic transformation and surface sterilization of explants with antibiotic is the key stage of genetic transformation process. Mostly itâ€™s done, biotic stresses by Agrobacterium and abiotic stresses by antibiotics that is causes and minimize transformation effectiveness due to necrosis and phytotoxicity of explants cells. This study was conducted to examine the effects of cotton bed over antibiotic treatment on Agrobacterium mediate genetic transformation in sugarcane. Agrobacterium strains LBA4404 were used for the infection of leaf disc explants of sugarcane somatic embryogenic calli. Bacterial removal from infected somatic embryogenic calli explants are always essential and a critical stage for survival of the plantlets. In this experiment, cefotaxime 500 mg/l was used for the washing of infected explants and removal of overgrowth of A. tumefaciens. At the end of the experiments, explants survival efficiency were 13%. Necrosis and phytotoxicit','Sugarcane; Agrobacterium tumefaciens; Cotton bed, Embryogenic calli, Genetic transformation ','Agrobacterium tumefaciens mediated genetic transformation and surface sterilization of explants with antibiotic is the key stage of genetic transformation process. Mostly itâ€™s done, biotic stresses by Agrobacterium and abiotic stresses by antibiotics that is causes and minimize transformation effectiveness due to necrosis and phytotoxicity of explants cells. This study was conducted to examine the effects of cotton bed over antibiotic treatment on Agrobacterium mediate genetic transformation in sugarcane. Agrobacterium strains LBA4404 were used for the infection of leaf disc explants of sugarcane somatic embryogenic calli. Bacterial removal from infected somatic embryogenic calli explants are always essential and a critical stage for survival of the plantlets. In this experiment, cefotaxime 500 mg/l was used for the washing of infected explants and removal of overgrowth of A. tumefaciens. At the end of the experiments, explants survival efficiency were 13%. Necrosis and phytotoxicit','-','Tiwari, N.N. and Singh, S.P. (2021). Cotton Bed: An Eco friendly Tool for Eliminating Agrobacterium tumefaciens in Sugarcane Transformation. Biological Forum â€“ An International Journal, 13(1): 293-298'),(2725,'97','The occurrence of Kelaartâ€™s Pipistrelle Bat Pipistrellus ceylonicus (Kelaart, 1852) (Chiroptera: Vespertilionidae) in Gondia District, Maharashtra, India','Sudhir Bhandarkar1* Shyamkant Talmale2 and Gopal Paliwal3','The occurrence of Kelaarts Pipistrelle Bat Pipistrellus ceylonicus7.pdf','',1,'','','','',''),(2726,'97','Report of an elegant species Antilope cervicapra (Linn.) in non-protected area of Shahabad, Bihar, India','Suday Prasad1* and Reyaz Ahmed2','Report of an elegant species Antilope cervicapra8.pdf','',1,'','','','',''),(2727,'92','Hydrology of Thattekkad Bird Sanctuary, Kerala','Ambily, C.B., Mohandas, A., Rajathy, S. and Sugathan, R.','44 Hydrology of Thattekkad Bird Sanctuary, Kerala Ambily C B 702.pdf','',1,'Hydrological studies are very significant for the conservation and management of wetland ecosystem. Any alteration of hydrological characteristics of wetlands affects the abundance and diversity of biota. Thattekkad Bird Sanctuary showed differences in environmental conditions and hydrological parameters. Different hydrological parameters from eight ecologically distinct areas were studied for three years. A significant difference was noticed in two periods of wetland and changes were taking place in the water chemistry of the Thattekkad Bird Sanctuary wetland area. And this area were degraded due to habitat alteration.','Thattekkad Bird Sanctuary (TBS), hydrology, wetlands','Hydrological studies are very significant for the conservation and management of wetland ecosystem. Any alteration of hydrological characteristics of wetlands affects the abundance and diversity of biota. Thattekkad Bird Sanctuary showed differences in environmental conditions and hydrological parameters. Different hydrological parameters from eight ecologically distinct areas were studied for three years. A significant difference was noticed in two periods of wetland and changes were taking place in the water chemistry of the Thattekkad Bird Sanctuary wetland area. And this area were degraded due to habitat alteration.','-','Ambily, C.B., Mohandas, A., Rajathy S. and Sugathan R. (2021). Hydrology of Thattekkad Bird Sanctuary, Kerala. Biological Forum â€“ An International Journal, 13(1): 299-306.'),(2728,'92','First Report on Severity of Early Blight Disease of Tomato Caused by Alternaria alternata in Hadoti Region of Rajasthan','Balram Jewaliya, Chirag Gautam, C.B. Meena, S.C. Sharma, Yamini Tak and Karan Singh','45 First Report on Severity of Early Blight Disease of Tomato Caused by Alternaria alternata in Hadoti Region of Rajasthan Chirag Gautam 731.pdf','',1,'Early blight, being the most devastating disease of tomato (Solanum lycopersicum L.) is considered to be a great threat to its production world widely. This disease is caused by several species of Alternaria and has been observed in all districts of Hadoti region of Rajasthan namely Kota, Bundi, Baran and Jhalawar. Assessment of disease severity is an important step as it helps in designing management strategies which ultimately help in increasing the crop yield. Therefore, a roving survey was conducted to find out the disease severity of tomato blightin foresaid region. The disease was prevalent in all the tomato growing areas during rabi 2019-2020. Percent disease index (PDI) was recorded to be highest in Kota district (44.06 %) followed by Baran, Bundi and Jhalawar (38.08 %) irrespective of cultivars grown. Charchoma village of Kota district recorded highest PDI (49.98 %) while, lowest PDI was recorded in Azampur village of Jhalawar district (34.34). Further, the pathogenic species ','Early blight, Tomato, Alternaria spp., Survey, Percent disease index.','Early blight, being the most devastating disease of tomato (Solanum lycopersicum L.) is considered to be a great threat to its production world widely. This disease is caused by several species of Alternaria and has been observed in all districts of Hadoti region of Rajasthan namely Kota, Bundi, Baran and Jhalawar. Assessment of disease severity is an important step as it helps in designing management strategies which ultimately help in increasing the crop yield. Therefore, a roving survey was conducted to find out the disease severity of tomato blightin foresaid region. The disease was prevalent in all the tomato growing areas during rabi 2019-2020. Percent disease index (PDI) was recorded to be highest in Kota district (44.06 %) followed by Baran, Bundi and Jhalawar (38.08 %) irrespective of cultivars grown. Charchoma village of Kota district recorded highest PDI (49.98 %) while, lowest PDI was recorded in Azampur village of Jhalawar district (34.34). Further, the pathogenic species ','-','Jewaliya, B., Gautam, C., Meena, C.B., Sharma, S.C., Tak, Y. and Singh, K. (2021). First Report on Severity of Early Blight Disease of Tomato Caused by Alternaria alternata in Hadoti Region of Rajasthan. Biological Forum â€“ An International Journal, '),(2729,'92','Studying the Effect of Controlled Burning on Invasive Plant Dominant Communities in Lower Altitude Chirpine Forests in Sirmaur District, Himachal Pradesh','Ranjeet Kumar','46 Studying the Effect of Controlled Burning on Invasive Plant Dominant Communities in Lower Altitude Chirpine Forests in Sirmaur District, Himachal Pradesh Dr. Ranjeet Kumar 668.pdf','',1,'The invasive alien plant species are changing composition and structure of vegetation leading to homogenization of flora. The biodiversity in chirpine forest in Himachal Pradesh is under threat due to increasing population of invasive alien plant species. The present papers deals with studying the impact of controlled burning on ground flora in chirpine forest. A study was conducted at three sites i.e. Dhon in Nahan Forest Division, Samon Kanon in Paonta Forest Division and Sarlimanpur in Renuka Ji Forest Division. The study site Dhon was dominated by Ageratum conyzoides and Samon Kanon by Agerentina adenophora. The study site Sarlimanpur was not dominated by these invasive alien plant species. The controlled burning was conducted in last week of February, 2017 in 1.50 hectare (B) in three sites with 0.50 hectare area kept control (C). The observation on phytosociological aspects for ground flora was taken in November, 2017. Total numbers of 34 species was recorded in control (C) and 3','Chirpine forests, Controlled burning, Invasive Alien species, Phytosociology ','The controlled burning increased the density and diversity in invasive as well as non-invasive herbaceous dominant communities. The impact of controlled burning on abundance and frequency (%) did not show clear cut trend. ','-','Kumar, R. (2021). Studying the Effect of Controlled Burning on Invasive Plant Dominant Communities in Lower Altitude Chirpine Forests in Sirmaur District, Himachal Pradesh. Biological Forum â€“ An International Journal, 13(1): 312-323.'),(2730,'92','Efficacy of Fruit Load and Growth Regulators on Fruit Set, Seed Yield and Quality of Brinjal Hybrid CV GJBH 4','A.V. Ginoya, J.B. Patel and I.R. Delvadiya','47 Efficacy of Fruit Load and Growth Regulators on Fruit Set, Seed Yield and Quality of Brinjal Hybrid CV GJBH 4 Aarti V. Ginoya 717.pdf','',1,'The number of developing fruits retained on the female parent after crossing influenced not only seed yield, but also quality of seeds harvested. Plant growth regulators play a key role in controlling internal mechanisms of plant by interacting with key metabolic processes such as, nucleic acid metabolism and protein synthesis. Use of the growth regulators (PGRs) might be a useful alternative to increase crop production. Looking to these, the study was conducted with an aim to study the effect of fruit load per plant viz., L1: Four crossed fruits per plant, L2: Six crossed fruits per plant, L3: Eight crossed fruits per plant, and L4: All crossed fruits per plant and growth regulators viz., G1: GA3 @ 50 ppm, G2: NAA @ 80 ppm and G3: Control (No spray) on fruit set, seed yield and quality of brinjal hybrid GJBH 4. Significantly the maximum fruit weight, fruit length, fruit girth, number of seeds per fruit, seed weight per fruit, test weight, seed germination, seedling vigour index I an','Brinjal, Fruit load, Growth regulators','Fruit load per plant and plant growth regulators played an important role on seed yield per plant and quality of brinjal hybrid seeds after the harvest of seeds. Irrespective of plant growth regulators, retention of four crossed fruits per plant noted significantly the higher values for yield attributing components and seed quality parameters. But, seed yield per plant found to be the highest in all crossed fruits per plant because of maximum numbers of fruits. Similarly, irrespective of fruit load, foliar spray of GA3 @ 50 ppm at fruit initiation stage produced significantly the higher seed \r\n\r\nyield per plant, yield attributing components and seed quality parameters Among the different combinations of fruit load per plant and plant growth regulators, retention of four crossed fruits per plant and foliar spray of GA3 @ 50 ppm at fruit initiation stage (L1 x G1) was found to the best combination, as it having the maximum fruit weight with the highest test weight and different seed ','-','Ginoya, A.V., Patel, J.B. and Delvadiya, I.R. (2021). Efficacy of Fruit Load and Growth Regulators on Fruit Set, Seed Yield and Quality of Brinjal Hybrid CV GJBH 4. Biological Forum â€“ An International Journal, 13(1): 324-332.'),(2731,'92','Management of Mungbean Yellow Mosaic Virus (MYMV) Disease of Blackgram by Chemical and Non-chemical Methods','M. Kasi Rao, M. Adinarayana, A.K. Patibanda and T. Madhumathi','48 Management of Mungbean Yellow Mosaic Virus _MYMV_ Disease of Blackgram by Chemical and Non-chemical Methods M. Kasi Rao 742.pdf','',1,'Yellow mosaic disease (YMD) remains a most important destructive viral disease of blackgram production in the Indian subcontinent with the economic losses account up to 85%. YMD is caused by a single stranded DNA containing begomovirus viz., Mungbean yellow mosaic virus (MYMV) which is mainly transmitted through whitefly (Bemisia tabaci Genn.). However, management of this deadly disease is still the biggest challenge. A field experiment with botanicals, micronutrients and chemical insecticides was conducted at RARS, Lam, Guntur, Andhra Pradesh during kharif and rabi 2019-20 to find out the best treatment for the management of MYMV and to increase the grain yield of blackgram. Results from the two field trials suggest seed treatment with thiamethoxam (5.0g/kg) and two sprays of acetamiprid (4%) + fipronil (4%) (2.0ml/l) (T7) reported the least mean MYMV incidence (3.75 and 4.84%) and severity (6.01% and 7.32%) with whitefly population of (4.14 and 2.95/plant) during kharif and rabi foll','MYMV, Blackgram, Whitefly, Management.','In the present study botanicals, micronutrients and insecticides were used for the management of MYMV rather than relying upon chemical insecticides alone. Based on two seasons experimentation, treatment involving seed treatment with thiamethoxam (5.0g/ kg) and two sprays of acetamiprid (4%) + fipronil (4%) (2.0ml/l) (T7) recorded least mean MYMV incidence and whitefly population with significant enhancement of grain yield and other yield contributing attributes.','-','Rao, M.K., Adinarayana, M., Patibanda, A.K. and Madhumathi, T. (2021). Management of Mungbean Yellow Mosaic Virus (MYMV) Disease of Blackgram by Chemical and Non-chemical Methods. Biological Forum â€“ An International Journal, 13(1): 333-341.'),(2732,'92','Eucalyptus: A Review on Agronomic and Medicinal Properties','Parul, Ankita Panigrahi, Nikhil Chandra Jena, Sudhir Tripathi, Vipin Tiwari and Vikas Sharma','49 Eucalyptus A Review on Agronomic and Medicinal Properties Vikas Sharma 705.pdf','',1,'Eucalyptus belongs to the family Myrtaceae which is cultivated worldwide but native to Australia. Eucalyptus is widely cultivated all over the world for its medicinal and agronomic properties. Eucalyptus is extensively used in agroforest industry as it provides raw material for various industries. Eucalyptus is also used to curtail carbon dioxide emissions. This review paper discusses about the use of eucalyptus oil as it consists numerous compounds which manifest herbicide and pesticide properties. Extraction of eucalyptus oil by steam distillation process is also discussed. Eucalyptus oil contains 1,8-cineole, citronellyl acetate and other compounds which expresses medicinal properties such as antiseptic, anti-inflammatory, antibacterial, antifungal and numerous other properties. Primary use of Eucalyptus oil in treatment of diseases like asthama, bronchitis, and sinus depicts the importance of eucalyptus in our healthcare system.','1, 8- cineole, SARC-CoV-2, aromatherapy, eucalyptus, antimicrobial.','Eucalyptus has many commercial uses. It has many natural as well as cloned varieties. Among all the varieties E. globus is mostly used species due to its gum production. Due to its high demand, and moderate productivity different methods are being used to raise the production capacity. Different parts of the plant can be used as a source of medicine. 1,8-Cineole, Î³ â€“Terpinene and various other major constituents of leaf essential oil from Eucalyptus species can be used as a various purpose like pesticides. Eucalyptus oil can be also used as herbicide which is applied in killing of unessential herbs or weed. Product like phenolics, tannins, and monoterpenes can be used as herbicidal activity. For the extraction of the Eucalyptus oil from Eucalyptus plant various methods like steam distillation, hydro distillation, turbo distillation can be used. It is found that the oil obtained from the Eucalyptus largiflorens shows high antimicrobial activity. Product like citronellyl acetate and 1','-','Parul, Panigrahi, A., Jena, N.C., Tripathi, S., Tiwari, V. and Sharma, V. (2021). Eucalyptus: A Review on Agronomic and Medicinal Properties. Biological Forum â€“ An International Journal, 13(1): 342-349.'),(2733,'92','Phytoharmones Interaction Defense Against Necrotrophic Fungus (Botrytis cinerea)','Tulasikorra,Thirunarayanan. P. and Jyostnarani, P.','50 Phytoharmones Interaction Defense Against Necrotrophic Fungus _Botrytis cinerea TULASIKORRRA 763.pdf','',1,'The phytoharmones essential for growth, reproduction, cell differentiation changes in our plant ecosystem. The exogenous application of auxins and gibberellins can reduce disease development, where ABA and ethylene promote disease spread. Hormones were well known in interaction with botrytis infection. The fungus was infected by releasing different hormones so that to invade into the plant host and possible ways to study different pathways to knock out the genes. Deficient mutants seem to enhance resistance towards botrytis infection like ethylene, ABA Abscisic acid. The entire process of fungal development, host-pathogen interaction have been being reported. The review summarize the current state of knowledge about Botrytis â€“host interaction, whereby nectrophs utilizes the plant harmones or metabolic enzymes to suppress the plant immune system. In this study strongly suggested that the involvement of plant resistance pathways in association with fungal effectors, metabolites can ','Phytoharmones Interaction, Necrotrophic fungus, ABA','B.cinerea utilizes the metabolites from plants to causes pathogenesis on host-pathogen produce several plant hormones mainly ethylene production, low level of ABA, IAA, and cytokinins. In the hormonal cross talk, auxin and gibberellins suppress the pathogen spread but in ethylene leads to susceptibility. The main concept of the pathogenic infection that it utilizes phytohormones for proper colonization and occurrence of more survival. Present studies that exogenous application has a chance to reduce the disease development, it employs for varied biosynthetic pathways and also finds out intermediate compounds so that we can block the pathways by the construction of deficient mutants. In botrytis infection, we can able to study ethylene production. Nevertheless, by cumulative data farmers should apply the right time of application of phytohormones to prevent Botrytis infection. For future understanding the physiological and genetic processes includes plant â€“pathogen interaction, pave w','-','Tulasikorra, Thirunarayanan, P. and Jyostnarani, P. (2021). Phytoharmones Interaction Defense against Necrotrophic Fungus (Botrytis cinerea). Biological Forum â€“ An International Journal, 13(1): 350-355.'),(2734,'92','A Comparative Study of Various Aspects of “Defense Mechanism” Acquired by Silicon with Regard to Different Pathogenic Interactions','Ishani, Shivam Singh* and Akashdeep Sutradhar','51 A Comparative Study of Various Aspects of “Defense Mechanism” Acquired by Silicon with Regard to Different Pathogenic Interactions Shivam Singh 711.pdf','',1,'Earlier, while considering the requirements of general vascular plants, Silicon was not acknowledged as something vital. But later, it was found that Silicon is greatly responsible to resist fungal as well as bacterial diseases in plants. Also, it influences the growth and development of an extensive range of plant species. Silicon is well-acknowledged for its nature of effective mitigation against numerous climatic stresses. Silicon generally functions as an immune-modulator for influencing the possible measures of plant defense responses in plants. Mainly, it will interact with the major components that are releasing stress signals in plant system. Hence, Silicon will be ultimately responsible for the induced resistance. In this review, we will be considering a comparative analysis of physical, chemical, molecular and cellular defense response produced by Silicon in different crops. Another major summarization from this review will be regarding the role of Silicon in plant-microbe in','Silica, Defense response, Plant-pathogen interactivity','The whole article revolves around the silicon providing the defense mechanism to plants against stress conditions that could be initiated by pathogens. For the following verification different levels or aspects were taken, be it physical, biochemical, molecular or cellular. Experiments were discussed for more clarification. Moreover, how silicon could be non-toxically utilized in the fields, from which particular crop it could be extracted and the other important data is also summarized here. It was found that silicon can bless the plant with a good defense mechanism. And can resist fungal as well as bacterial diseases to an extent. By combining available information on the interaction of plantâ€“microbes mediated by Si, the physical, biochemical, and molecular mechanisms that can be attributed to Si-mediated plant defense responses have been summarized in this review.Although numerous studies have elucidated the possible mechanism of Si-mediated resistance at the physical, biochemical','-','Ishani, Singh, S. and Sutradhar, A. (2021). A Comparative Study of Various Aspects of “Defense Mechanism” Acquired by Silicon with Regard to Different Pathogenic Interactions. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 13(1): 356-362.'),(2735,'92','SAFFRON: A Mini Review on its Medicinal Potential','Divye Mittal, Tanvi Magotra, Ujjwal Prathap Singh, Saksham Sharma, Ananya Chourasia and Vikas Sharma','52 SAFFRON A Mini Review on its Medicinal Potential Vikas Sharma 712.pdf','',1,'Saffron is a stigma of a plant that is dried and then used as a Spice in Food and Beverages and mostly cultivated at the Higher Altitudes. It is well known for the cure of diseases like Diabetes, Hypertension, Depression, Cancer, and Obesity. Researchers have stated that itâ€™s also beneficial to treat respiratory disorders also. It is one of the most important spices in Ayurveda Sciences and its aromatic nature & flavour makes it more valuable for all the Food Industries. There are many carotenoid compounds present in saffron, although widely reported and studied are crocin and crocetin. Despite the fact that saffron has such a great deal of therapeutic potential, still there is a gap in the pharmaceutical outcome under its name and in this review, we have highlighted the advantages, furthermore briefly examined the medicinal and therapeutic application of saffron.','Saffron, Phytochemistry, Crocetin, Cancer, Crocin, Medicinal','Saffron is a powerful spice high in antioxidants. It has been linked to health benefits, such as improved mood, libido, and sexual function, as well as reduced PMS symptoms and enhanced weight loss, additionally saffron is mainly grown in areas located at higher altitudes. The dried stigma of Crocus sativa is used as a flavouring and colouring agent and is also used in the preparation of medicines that cure the diseases like Diabetes, Depression, Hypertension, and Cancer. Also, it has been reviewed that obesity can be treated by Saffron. The Carotenoid compound present in it plays a major role in Medical Sciences and helps in increase in metabolic rate of the body. \r\nThat being said, the exact mechanism of these compound\'s anticancer actions is unclear. Furthermore, these results have yet to be confirmed in human clinical trials, and more research is required to determine the effectiveness of saffron in cancer diagnosis and treatment. The promising pharmacological properties of saffron','-','Mittal, D., Magotra, T., Singh, U.P., Sharma, S., Chourasia, A. and Sharma, V. (2021). SAFFRON: A Mini Review on its Medicinal Potential. Biological Forum â€“ An International Journal, 13(1): 363-367.'),(2736,'92','A Review: Organic Amendments of Soil for Management of Soil Borne Pathogens','Yash Punia, Lovepreet Singh, Vipul Kumar and Toomula Ravinder Reddy','53 A Review Organic Amendments of Soil for Management of Soil Borne Pathogens Lovepreet Singh 765.pdf','',1,'The harmful effect of chemical on living organisms and loss of chemical fungicides towards plant pathogens which attracted the attention towards organic amendments of soil for management of soil borne pathogens. Application of different organic amendments like animal waste, bone meal, blood meal, vermicompost and antagonists etc suppress the soil borne pathogens (Rhizoctonia spp., Sclerotinia spp. and Pythium spp. etc) as well as increase soil heath too. There are various methods like soil suppression, soil solarization, bio solarization, anaerobic disinfectants and bio fumigation several and more methods in organic amendments. This review mainly focuses on application of organic amendments of soil for management of soil borne pathogens. By using of soil amendments to control soil borne pathogens is very effective in result then chemical control. While organic amendments reduce plant pathogen populations, they result in a 1000-fold increase in soil microorganism populations after imple','Organic amendments, soil borne pathogens, soil fertility, soil solarization, anaerobic disinfestation, bio-fumigation, soil suppression.','Organic amendments application in field control soil borne disease effectively as well as increase fertility of soil by increasing organic compound in soil. From many years chemical compound is using in field increased. Which effect soil fertility, ground water, animals and human health. There are many studies which focus on organic amendments application and culture methods like solarization, anaerobic soil disinfestation which reduce the soil borne pathogens in field by culture methods. Total dependency on chemicals will lead to resistance in pathogens but application of organic amendments doesnâ€™t lead resistance in pathogen because of their board spectrum control of soil borne pathogens by increasing microbial colonies in soil, secretion of extracts, create resistance in plant toward pathogens, increase organic acid in soil which led to develop anaerobic condition in soil and creating competition with causal organisms etc. As we learn more about their potential benefits that organ','-','Punia, Y., Singh, L., Kumar, V. and Reddy, T.R. (2021). A Review: Organic Amendments of Soil for Management of Soil Borne Pathogens. Biological Forum â€“ An International Journal, 13(1): 368-374.'),(2737,'92','Pests of Mushroom and their Ecological Management Strategies: A Review','Robin Rijal, Priyanka Maity and Adesh Kumar','54 Pests of Mushroom and their Ecological Management Strategies A Review Dr. Adesh Kumar 745.pdf','',1,'In the recent years, mushroom production is gaining popularity in most part of the world as the enterprising assists to transform the agricultural wastes into high healthy nutritional foods. Infestation by several pests poses serious threats to mushroom crop during its cultivation. The major pests that are associated with mushroom crops are arachnids, insects, and nematodes. The main challenges in the pest management of mushrooms are inadequate scientific researches for the management of pests, use of less innovative technologies with inadequate information for the control of pests, lack of effective formulations in management packages and, lack of thorough analysis of the mushrooms ecosystem in its appropriate environmental, social and ecological settings. Despite of that Integrated Pest Management (IPM) is considered as the most effective and efficient pest management tool which includes cultural, biological, physical, mechanical and chemical methods, therefore, IPM assists to furnis','Mushroom, Ecosystem, Cultivation, Pests, Integrated Pest Management etc.','To conclude, Mushroom farming is becoming the most popular enterprise nowadays. Farmers from different parts of the world are intensively growing different species of mushrooms like field and horticultural crops. However, one of the serious threats during mushroom cultivation is severe infestation by several pests, leading to huge mushrooms damage resulting into heavy economic loss. For effective and efficient management of pests, IPM acts as an ecological tool, which incorporates preventive and restorative measures to keep the crops free from pests with minimum risk towards ecosystem. It is advisable to rely less on chemical methods to control pests because excessive use of chemicals leads to create long term negative impacts on natural ecosystem, and has adverse effects for both beneficial living organisms and human also.','-','Rijal, R., Maity, P. and Kumar, A. (2021). Pests of Mushroom and their Ecological Management Strategies: A Review. Biological Forum â€“ An International Journal, 13(1): 375-387.'),(2738,'92','Studies for Determination of Air Pollution Tolerance Index of Ornamental Plant Species Grown in the Vertical Landscape System ','Safeena S.A., Shilpa Shree K.G., P. Naveen Kumar, Tarak Nath Saha and K.V. Prasad','55 Studies for Determination of Air Pollution Tolerance Index of Ornamental Plant Species Grown in the Vertical Landscape System Dr. Safeena S.A 692.pdf','',1,'Air pollution in Cities and Metros across the world is a matter of global health concern. Poor air quality is associated with health problems throughout the world due to rapid urbanization and industrialization. Little relief is possible if we rely on ornamental plants which can mitigate air pollution. In the present era of rapid urbanization, the horizontal space left for outdoor gardens is very limited. Here comes the importance of vertical landscaping. Vertical green walls are aesthetically appealing, refresh the ambiance and improve the air quality. Vertical gardening expands the possibility of growing ornamental plants in a vertical space wherever space is a constraint. Smartly designing the available vertical spaces in balcony, terraces, sit outs and living rooms allows us to transform it into a beautiful and lush area perfect for relaxing. Plants in the vertical green walls can remove toxicants and obnoxious compounds from surrounding air, in addition to the basic photosynthesis','APTI, Foliage ornamentals, Vertical farming','It is essential to carry out this type of research on different species of ornamental plants in vertical gardening for better insight into the interactions and correlations between environmental pollution and various ecological, biochemical, and physiological parameters in urban environments.','-','Safeena, S.A., Shilpa Shree. K.G., Kumar, P. N., Saha, T.N. and Prasad, K.V. (2021). Studies for Determination of Air Pollution Tolerance Index of Ornamental Plant Species Grown in the Vertical Landscape System. Biological Forum â€“ An International Jo'),(2739,'92','Parental Selection, Combining Ability Effects and Gene Action for Yield and Earliness in Blackgram [Vigna mungo (L.) Hepper]','A. Kavitha Reddy, D. M. Reddy, Lakshminarayana, R. Vemireddy, P. Sudhakar and B. V. Bhaskara Reddy','56 Parental Selection, Combining Ability Effects and Gene Action for Yield and Earliness in Blackgram [Vigna mungo L. Hepper] KAVITHA REDDY 773.pdf','',1,'Combining ability studies were carried out in blackgram comprising of six diverse parents and their 15 F1 crosses generated through diallel mating design for twelve yield, yield attributing traits along with earliness. The results indicated that both additive and non-additive gene actions played a major role in the inheritance of the traits. Among the parents, TBG-104 and LBG-752 were found to be good general combiners for yield attributing characters, TU-40 was the best choice for earliness and these parents could be exploited for producing desirable recombinants in the segregating generations for yield and earliness. The crosses LBG-752 Ã— TBG-104, LBG-752 Ã— PU-31, LBG-752 Ã— TU-40, TU-40 Ã— TBG-104 and IPU-2-43 Ã— TBG-104 were found to be the best combinations for improvement of yield as evident from their mean performances and sca effects. The crosses TU-40 Ã— TBG-104 and IPU-2-43 Ã— TBG-104 were the best combinations for early flowering. By and large, among all the crosses LBG-75','Blackgram, combining ability, gene action, yield, yield components, earliness','Based on per se and gca effects it could be concluded that the parents viz., TBG-104, LBG-752, TU-40 and IPU-2-43 were the best general combiners for yield and yield attributing traits. The parent TU-40 was the best general combiner for earliness. The crosses viz., LBG-752 Ã— TBG-104, LBG-752 Ã— PU-31, LBG-752 Ã— TU-40, TU-40 Ã— TBG-104 and IPU-2-43 Ã— TBG-104 were found superior and could be exploited in future breeding programmes to isolate desirable segregants for yield and maturity in black gram. While selecting early maturing lines, it is crucial to seek balance between maturity and yield, so that there is least compromise on yield. In this lane, the cross LBG-752 Ã— TBG-104 could be considered as the best one that may throw early maturing and high yielding segregants. Breeding methods like modified recurrent selection or repeated crossing in segregating generations could be useful for the exploitation of additive and non additive gene actions in all the crosses.','-','Reddy, A.K., Reddy, D.M., Lakshminarayana, Vemireddy, R., Sudhakar, P. and Reddy, B.V.B. (2021). Parental Selection, Combining Ability Effects and Gene Action for Yield and Earliness in Blackgram [Vigna mungo (L.) Hepper]. Biological Forum â€“ An Inter'),(2740,'92','Stability Analysis for Fruit Yield and its Components in Bottle Gourd [Lagenaria siceraria (Mol.) Standl.]','J.R. Balat, J.B. Patel, I.R. Delvadiya and A.V. Ginoya','57 Stability Analysis for Fruit Yield and its Components in Bottle Gourd [Lagenaria siceraria Mol. Standl.] A. V. Ginoya 747.pdf','',1,'The G Ã— E interaction makes it difficult to select the best performing as well as the most stable genotypes and so its efficient interpretation is important issue in plant improvement. The present study was carried out with objectives of to estimate the effect of genotype Ã— environment interaction on the fruit yield and stability and estimate magnitude of genotype Ã— environment interaction in bottle gourd. Forty five bottle gourd genotypes comprising 36 hybrids and 9 parents were evaluated in four different environments for stability parameters for days to opening first female flower, days to opening first male flower, number of node bearing first female flower, number of node bearing first male flower, vine length (cm), days to first picking, fruit length (cm), fruit equatorial diameter (cm), number of fruits per plant, average fruit weight per plant (kg), days to last picking and fruit yield per plant (kg). The analysis of mean squares due to genotypes and environments were found','Bottle gourd, G x E interactions, Stability','None of the parent was stable for fruit yield per plant, however, parents NDBG 132 and Arka Bahar were found to be highly responsive to better environments, while ABG 1 was found to be highly responsive to poor environments. Amongst the hybrids, ABG 1 Ã— Arka Bahar, Punjab Long Ã— NDBG 132 and Pusa Naveen Ã— Samrat possessed more fruit yield per plant and had non-significant bi and S2di and thus, were considered as stable hybrids, needs to be evaluated at more locations before released as a hybrids for commercial cultivation. ','-','Balat, J.R., Patel, J.B., Delvadiya, I.R. and Ginoya, A.V. (2021). Stability Analysis for Fruit Yield and its Components in Bottle Gourd [Lagenaria siceraria (Mol.) Standl.]. Biological Forum â€“ An International Journal, 13(1): 409-419.'),(2741,'98','Dietary and Nutrient Intakes of Rural and Urban Women: A Study from South India','Ravula Bharathi','4 Dietary and Nutrient Intakes of Rural and Urban Women A Study from South India R. BHARATHI.pdf','',1,'','','','',''),(2742,'92','Biplot Analysis of Adaptability Measures of Barley Genotypes Evaluated under Salinity and Alkalinity Conditions','Ajay Verma, R.P.S. Verma, J. Singh, L. Kumar and G.P. Singh','58 Biplot Analysis of Adaptability Measures of Barley Genotypes Evaluated under Salinity and Alkalinity Conditions AJAY VERMA 743.pdf','',1,'Analytic measures of adaptability had been defined recently for efficient estimation of GxE interaction under multi environment trials. Highly significant effects of the environment (E), genotypes (G), and GxE interaction had been observed by AMMI analysis. GxE interaction accounted for 38.4% whereas Environment explained 31.7% of treatment variations in yield during first year. Harmonic Mean of Genotypic Values (HMGV) expressed higher values for NDB1445, RD2552, DWRB201 genotypes. Ranking of genotype as per IPCA-1 wereHUB268, DWRB201, RD2999.While IPCA-2, selected RD2907, DWRB201, HUB267 genotypes. Values of Measures ASV1 and ASV identified DWRB201, HUB267, HUB268 barley genotypes. Adaptability measures Harmonic Mean of Relative Performance of Genotypic Values (HMPRVG) and Relative Performance of Genotypic Values (RPGV) identified NDB1445, RD2552, DWRB201 as the genotypes of performance among the locations. Biplot graphical analysis exhibited PRVG, HMPRVG clustered with mean, GM, H','AMMI, ASV, ASV1, HMGV, GAI, HMPRVG, Biplots','Researchers concentrates on genotypes with high productive potential that respond to favourable environments. Often the occurrence of complex type GxE interaction leads to uncertainty in the identification of promising genotype; in this case, techniques exploit adaptability and stability can provide precise information about genotypes performance. The identification of stable and highly productive genotypes between different environments remains a constant challenge for breeders of various crop species around the world. Selection of barley genotypes by the harmonic mean of genotypic values allow to identify the stable and productive genotypes for problem soils of the country.','-','Verma, A., Verma, R.P.S., Singh, J., Kumar, L. and Singh, G.P. (2021). Biplot Analysis of Adaptability Measures of Barley Genotypes Evaluated under Salinity and Alkalinity Conditions. Biological Forum â€“ An International Journal, 13(1): 420-428.'),(2743,'92','Productivity and Use Efficiencies of Maize (Zea mays L.) in Response to Split Application of Nitrogen\r\n\r\n','Md. Aziz, P.S. Patra, R. Saha and A. S. Ahmed','59 Productivity and Use Efficiencies of Maize _Zea mays L._ in Response to Split Application of Nitrogen P. S Patra 751.pdf','',1,'Present investigation was carried out at the research farm of Uttar Banga Krishi Viswavidyalaya located at Cooch Behar district of West Bengal during crop season of 2016-17 to find out the optimum timing and amount of nitrogenous fertilizer to lessen the losses of applied nitrogen through leaching in light texture soil, thereby improving efficiencies and productivity of summer maize.\r\nExperiment was laid out in randomized block design with six treatments and four replications. Treatments comprises of T1 : Control (no fertilizer), T2 : 90 kg N ha-1 at sowing + 30 kg N ha-1 at 35 DAS, T3 : 60kg N ha-1 at sowing + 60 kg N ha-1 at 35 DAS, T4 : 60 kg N ha-1 at sowing + 30 kg N ha-1 at 35 DAS + 30 kg N ha-1 at 55 DAS, T5 = 40 kg N ha-1 at sowing + 40 kg N ha-1 at 35 DAS + 40 kg N ha-1 at 55 DAS and T6 : 120 kg N ha-1 at sowing. Outcome of the experiment revealed that whenever nitrogen was applied in three equal splits (T5) producing 202 % and 24.19 % more grain yield over T1 and T6. The hi','Economics, Maize, Nitrogen and Use efficiencies ','The findings indicates that application of 120 kg nitrogen in three equal splits along with 60 kg phosphorus and potassium ha-1 was found superior for improving the productivity and profitability of maize through maximizing efficiencies of applied nitrogen, thus it is recommended for the farmers of terai region having sandy loam soil.','-','Md. Aziz, Patra, P.S., Saha, R. and Ahmed, A.S. (2021). Productivity and Use Efficiencies of Maize (Zea mays L.) in Response to Split Application of Nitrogen. Biological Forum â€“ An International Journal, 13(1): 429-434.'),(2744,'92','Weed Management Strategies under Varied Nitrogen Management Practices in Kharif Maize\r\n\r\n','Kadiri Saimaheswari, G. Karuna Sagar, V. Chandrika and P. Sudhakar and T. Giridhara Krishna','60 Weed Management Strategies under Varied Nitrogen Management Practices in Kharif Maize Kadiri Saimaheswari 775.pdf','',1,'An investigation was carried out during kharif 2019 and kharif, 2020 on sandy loam soils of dryland farm at S. V. Agricultural College, Tirupati, Andhra Pradesh. The experiment was laid out in split plot design with three replications. Maize hybrid DHM-117 was used in experimentation. The treatments comprised combination of four nitrogen management practices and nine weed management practices. Among the nitrogen management practices, green seeker directed N application (N3) recorded significantly higher values of yield attributes, yield and harvest index during both the years of study as well as in pooled mean. Disregarding nitrogen management practices hand weeding twice at 15 and 30 DAS recorded significantly higher values of yield attributes, yield and harvest index over weedy check. However, this treatment closely followed by application of atrazine 1.0 kg ha-1 as pre emergence fb to pramezone 30 g ha-1 as post emergence, atrazine 1.0 kg ha-1 as pre emergence fb tembotrione 120 g','Weed Management, Strategies, Nitrogen Management, atrazine, Kharif Maize','From the present investigation it was revealed that among nitrogen management practices green seeker directed nitrogen application was found to be superior over rest of the treatments. Among various weed management practices, hand weeding twice at 15 and 30 DAS had significant influenced on yield attributes, yield and harvest index of maize but at par with application of low volume herbicides. Further studies take into account of seasonal variation as well as multi-location in view of making concrete recommendations for maize growers.','-','Saimaheswari, K., Sagar, G.K., Chandrika, V. and Sudhakar, P. and Krishna, T.G. (2021). Weed Management Strategies under Varied Nitrogen Management Practices in Kharif Maize. Biological Forum â€“ An International Journal, 13(1): 435-439.'),(2745,'92','Microbiological Perspectives of Hydrocarbon Degradation: A Review\r\n\r\n','Jagjot Kaur, Daljeet Singh Dhanjal and Reena Singh','61 Microbiological Perspectives of Hydrocarbon Degradation A Review Reena Singh 750.pdf','',1,'Hydrocarbons are found in abundant quantities, naturally. A complex mixture of hydrocarbons is present in a majority of crude oil. The organic matter is decomposed into hydrogen and carbon, which are then bonded to form chains. Microorganisms like bacteria can degrade these, fungi and archaea etc., by different metabolic pathways. Hydrocarbons are considered toxic to the human race and environment. So, there is a need to remove these from the environment. Various methods are available, but some methods like the chemical method are not cost-effective. Therefore, microbial biodegradation is an effective alternative method. Employing microbial population for this purpose does not require high cost as compared to other technologies.\r\nMicrobial degradation occurs either in aerobic or anaerobic conditions. The degradation processes are classified as aerobic or anaerobic microbial degradation of hydrocarbons. Many biochemical challenges are faced during the anaerobic degradation because of th','Biodegradation, Hydrocarbons, Microbes, Sustainable','The comprehensive study of microbial biodegradation of hydrocarbons has focused on a variety of microbial populations and their degrading capacities. It deepens our knowledge of microbial procedures in hydrocarbon containing domains. Another significant conclusion of this study is the acknowledgement of microbial or biological preference over chemical methods. Chemically, hydrocarbon degradation methods are generally not suitable for the efficient synthesis of pure substances after degradation. For designing such experiments, some critical points have to be kept in mind, like the various factors which affect the degradation process, such as temperature, pH, salinity, concentration etc. Degradation of hydrocarbons can be performed in aerobic or anaerobic conditions. Depending on this, we classify the process of biodegradation as aerobic microbial degradation or anaerobic microbial degradation. To enhance this, biosurfactants are employed. Also, the role of enzymes in the entire process','-','Kaur, J., Dhanjal, D.S. and Singh, R. (2021). Microbiological Perspectives of Hydrocarbon Degradation: A Review. Biological Forum â€“ An International Journal, 13(1): 440-445'),(2746,'92','Genetic Variability and Character Associations in Rice Cultivars of North Bank Plain Zone of Assam for Traits Associated with Adaptation under Moisture Stress and Grain Yield\r\n','A.S. Nizamuddin Ahmed, M.K. Sarma, J. Bhuyan, S. Dutta Deka, H. Choudhury, S Zaman and A.A. Sharma\r\n','62 Genetic Variability and Character Associations in Rice Cultivars of North Bank Plain Zone of Assam for Traits Associated with Adaptation under Moisture Stress and Grain Yield Abu Saleh Nizamuddin Ahmed 722.pdf','',1,'Breeding rice varieties for tolerance to moisture stress along with high yield potential is a\r\nchallenging task. Considering the wide diversity of rice growing environment including various degrees of\r\nmoisture stress conditions, the rice germplasm of North Bank Plain Zone (NBPZ) of Assam appears to be\r\nimportant for their studies on genetic architecture with respect to traits associated with grain yield and\r\nmoisture stress tolerance. Thus, the present study was conducted to elucidate the genetic variability and\r\ncharacter association for traits related to tolerance towards moisture stress and grain yield in a set of 54 rice\r\nvarieties of the region. The genotypes were evaluated by growing them in PVC pipes. The study revealed\r\nhighest genotypic coefficient of variation for root volume, followed by root dry weight, root length density\r\nand grain yield. Considerably high amount of variation was also exhibited by filled grains per panicle, shoot\r\ndry weight, root length and root-shoot r','Genetic variability, Correlation, Rice, North Bank Plain Zone of Assam, Grain Yield and Moisture\r\nstress tolerance','The present study indicated that direct selection for the\r\ntraits viz., filled grains per panicle, root volume, root\r\ndry weight, shoot dry weight, root length density and\r\ngrain yield per plant would be effective. From the\r\nassociation studies it was obvious that root traits which\r\nplay a vital role in conferring drought tolerance exhibit\r\nlittle direct correlation with yield and other yield\r\ncomponents. Therefore, all the root traits associated\r\nwith drought adaptation needs to be selected separately.\r\nFor simultaneous improvement genotypes for drought\r\ntolerance and higher yield, two separate yet parallel\r\nselection schemes need to be formulated, one for root\r\ntraits and the other for yield related traits. This should\r\nbe followed by further genetic divergence and\r\ncombining ability studies and hybridization between\r\ngenotypes to obtain segregants with combination of\r\ndesirable root traits and yield attributes. Thus, it appears\r\nthat judicious manipulation of the existing variabilit','-','Ahmed, A.S.N., Sarma, M.K., Bhuyan, J., Deka, S.D., Choudhury, H. Zaman, S. and Sharma, A.A.\r\n(2021). Genetic Variability and Character Associations in Rice Cultivars of North Bank Plain Zone of Assam for Traits\r\nAssociated with Adaptation under Moisture '),(2747,'92','Effect of Different Levels of Nitrogen Application and Cutting Management on Yield, Quality and Economics of Fodder Oats (Avena sativa L.)\r\n\r\n','Y. Pravalika and D.S. Gaikwad','63 Effect of Different Levels of Nitrogen Application and Cutting Management on Yield, Quality and Economics of Fodder Oats _Avena sativa L._ Y. Pravalika 757.pdf','',1,'A field experiment was performed in the rabi season, 2020-2021 at the agricultural fields of Lovely Professional University, Phagwara, Punjab for study the effect of different levels of nitrogen application and cutting management on yield, quality and economics of fodder oats (Avena sativa L.)â€. In factorial randomised block design, the experiment has been replicated three times, with ten treatment combinations. The treatment combinations include five nitrogen levels, i.e., 0, 60, 90, 120 and 150 kg N ha-1 and two cutting managements i.e., C1 (Single cut at 50 percent flowering stage), C2 (First cut at 60 DAS and second cut at 50 percent flowering). Forage is a widely known and inexpensive source of animal feed. Thus, improved agronomic methods such as different levels of nitrogen application and cutting management are important factors in increasing forage crop productivity. The results of research work on effect of nitrogen levels and cutting management revealed that application of','Cutting management, levels, nitrogen, Oats and yield ','The study concluded that the nitrogen application at 150 kg ha-1 significantly increased growth parameters, yield parameters, quality parameters, and net realisation of fodder oat as compared to other nitrogen levels. Single cut at 50 percent flowering proved to be the best in terms of growth parameters. A double cut, with the first cut at 60 DAS and the second cut at 50 percent flowering, proved to be the best method for ensuring extreme forage output with good quality and a highest net realisation of the forage oat harvest.','-','Pravalika, Y. and Gaikwad, D.S. (2021). Effect of Different Levels of Nitrogen Application and Cutting Management on Yield, Quality and Economics of Fodder Oats (Avena sativa L.). Biological Forum â€“ An International Journal, 13(1): 452-457.'),(2748,'92','Agricultural Knowledge Information System (AKIS) in Cooch Behar District of West Bengal: the Actors and their Inter-linkage with Respect to Agricultural Knowledge and Information Communication\r\n\r\n','Golam Torab Ali, Subhrajyoti Panda and P.K. Pal','64 Agricultural Knowledge Information System _AKIS_ in Cooch Behar District of West Bengal the Actors and their Inter-linkage with Respect to Agricultural Knowledge and Information GOLAM TORAB ALI 737.pdf','',1,'Agricultural Knowledge Information System (AKIS) is a network of actors in a platform of\r\ninnovation who are complementary to each other and make contributions towards innovation. The\r\neffectiveness and success of an AKIS depends upon the meaningful participation of these actors in this\r\nsystem, the way they are linked with this system and the nature of relationship created by their linkage. The\r\nstudy was undertaken in Cooch Behar district of West Bengal, India to explore the actors involved in\r\ngeneration and dissemination of agricultural knowledge and information and inter-linkage among them.\r\nLinkage strength measures the quantitative achievement of an actor on total number of dimensions of linkage\r\nestablished in an AKIS, whether, linkage diversity lights on the qualitative expansion of linkage built by an\r\nactor over all other actors playing in that AKIS. There are very few studies conducted on AKIS and it was\r\ngreat challenge for the investigator to mobilize the officials to col','AKIS, Actors, Linkage Diversity, Linkage Strength, Cooch Behar','Cooch Behar, a northern district in the state of West\r\nBengal in India is having the actors in the broad bands\r\nof public, private, autonomous, individual and nongovernment\r\norganisations in its AKIS platform and are\r\ninterlinked satisfactorily to produce a pluralistic system\r\nof extension. Among the five broad dimensions of\r\nlinkage as policy and administrative dimension,\r\nresearch dimension, extension dimension, resource\r\ndimension and service dimension, the actors are\r\ninterlinked with each other although not with every\r\ndimensions. The linkage diversity (average value=0.80\r\nfor the district), which tells about the density of the\r\nlinkage matrix reflects that the linkage network is\r\nsubstantially dense among the AKIS actors in the\r\ndistrict, although the strength of linkage is rather weak\r\n(average strength value = 0.183 for the district). The\r\nstudy can be conducted to find out the linkages between\r\ndifferent state organisations for delivery of agricultural\r\ninformation to the farm','-','Ali, G.T., Panda, S. and Pal, P.K. (2021). Agricultural Knowledge Information System (AKIS) in\r\nCooch Behar District of West Bengal: the Actors and their Inter-linkage with Respect to Agricultural Knowledge and\r\nInformation Communication. Biological Forum'),(2749,'92','Use of Probiotics for the Management of Post Harvest Diseases in Papaya\r\n\r\n','K. Greeshma, C.D. Deokar, K.S. Raghuwanshi and V.K. Bhalerao','65 Use of Probiotics for the Management of Post Harvest Diseases in Papaya K. Greeshma 780.pdf','',1,'The diseases caused by pathogenic microorganisms pose a potential threat to agriculture. Owing to the limitations of conventional methods, an effective alternative is needed. Probiotics are live micro organisms provide a number of health benefits to the host when consumed. The use of probiotics in crop production and crop protection programme is gaining a momentum in recent years. Probiotics usage for the management of post-harvest diseases of papaya has opened a new avenue in the disease management replacing toxic chemical fungicides. Along with the challenges in use of probiotics such as screening for efficient strain and identification of appropriate carrier for their inoculation. The present investigation was conducted at MPKV, Rahuri using different probiotic isolates, which are isolated and cultured from curd, fermented dosa material, fermented jower and bajra flour and the commercial probiotics (Prowel, Flora and Vibact) were tested for their efficacy in controlling major post ','Papaya, Post-harvest disease, Probiotics, Management, Bio control','The studies on use of probiotics as a alternative in the management of post-harvest pathogens of papaya fruits suggests that the pathogens particularly Colletotrichum, Alternaria can be controlled as a post-harvest pathogen by spraying of probiotics under in vitro conditions when the inoculum load of these pathogens is less on the fruits. The probiotics treatment also increases the shelf life and the quality of the fruits keeping them fresh for longer periods. Hence, they can be used as an effective alternate in plant disease management and form essential part of bio control and also in integrated disease management. The future scope includes Molecular identification and characterization of efficient strains and development of stable formulations with efficient carriers that enhance the shelf life along with developing standardized protocols for quality assurance.','-','Greeshma, K., Deokar, C.D., Raghuwanshi, K.S. and Bhalerao, V.K. (2021). Use of Probiotics for the Management of Post Harvest Diseases in Papaya. Biological Forum â€“ An International Journal, 13(1): 462-467.'),(2750,'92','Osteoporosis Self-Assessment Tool for Asians: Comparison to Quantitative Ultrasound Bone Densitometry in Urban Indian Women\r\n\r\n','Ravula Bharathi','66 Osteoporosis Self-Assessment Tool for Asians Comparison to Quantitative Ultrasound Bone Densitometry in Urban Indian Women R BHARATHI 802.pdf','',1,'Osteoporosis is the specific bone metabolic disorder which can be diagnosed using bone mineral density evaluation techniques mainly the gold standard, dual-energy x-ray absorptiometry (DEXA). Unfortunately, it becomes difficult to screen people with DEXA due to its limited access, high cost and involvement of ionizing radiation. Osteoporosis self-assessment Screening tool for Asians (OSTA) serves as one of the successful screening technique based on age and weight to predict osteoporosis risk. Quantitative Ultrasound (QUS) bone densitometry measured at calcaneus (heel) bone is an approved Bone Mineral Density technique to screen the subjects at community level in detecting osteoporosis. Based on this background, the present research focused on application of OSTA in Tirupati urban women, India in the age range of 35 to 74 years. The results highlighted that employing OSTA may be the beneficial tool for the physicians to identify the persons at risk and to initiate early treatment to m','OSTA, QUS, osteoporosis, bone health, bone density','The improvements in the medical access to the community, economic viability, better sanitary facilities and enhanced literacy rates have provided a greater scope for the increase in longevity lead to higher proportion of aged population. Meanwhile, the age-related problems become widely accelerated at a faster pace especially bone metabolic disorders occupy major share next to cardiovascular diseases. The drastic changing scenario demanded for the early detection of bone health status to initiate preventive measures.\r\nDual energy X-ray absorptiometry being costlier gradually replacing with the recently recommended QUS technique measured at calcaneus (heel) site became the well accepted bone testing modality to screen the people at community level. The other non-BMD based screening tools are also gaining recognition to overcome the practical problems where the availability for BMD has little scope. OSTA is one such screening tool formulated and standardised through the individual age an','-','Ravla, B. (2021). Osteoporosis Self-Assessment Tool for Asians: Comparison to Quantitative Ultrasound Bone Densitometry in Urban Indian Women. Biological Forum â€“ An International Journal, 13(1): 468-474.'),(2751,'92','Effect of Variety and Sulphur on Growth and Yield of Groundnut (Arachis hypogaea L.)\r\n\r\n','Dudekula Dileep, Vikram Singh, Dhananjay Tiwari, Shruti G. George and Padachala Swathi','67 Effect of Variety and Sulphur on Growth and Yield of Groundnut _Arachis hypogaea L._ Dudekula Dileep 733.pdf','',1,'A field experiment was carried out during Kharif 2020 at Krishi Vigyan Kendra (KVK) to study effect of variety and sulphur on yield and yield components of groundnut (Arachis hypogaea L.). Treatments consists of 3 different varieties of groundnut viz. Kadiri Amaravathi, Dharani, Kadiri 6 and 3 levels of Sulphur viz. 20, 30 and 40kg/ha as basal. Each of the nine treatments was repeated three times and laid out in a randomised block pattern. The results revealed that treatment 9 (Kadiri 6 with 40kg/ha sulphur per hectare) recorded maximum plant height (59.31), number of nodules/plant (56.73), dry weight (47.53), number of pods per plant (22.65), number of kernels per pod (2.01), seed index (38.57), seed yield (2900.00), haulm yield (4479.00), gross returns (130763.00), net returns (81059.70) and B:C Ratio (1.63). It reveals from the study that application of sulphur in optimum doses i.e., 40 kg/ha contribute to enhance the rate of crop development, oil content and yield in groundnut by','Kadiri Amaravathi, Dharani, Kadiri 6, Sulphur, groundnut yield attributes. ','It can be concluded that higher yield with better quality of ground nut (Kadiri 6) was found with application of variety Kadiri 6 with 40 Kg/ha Sulphur in terms of more productivity (2900.00 Kg/ha) as well as net returns (Rs.81059.7/ha).','-','Dileep, D., Singh, V., Tiwari, D., George, S.G. and Swathi, P. (2021). Effect of Variety and Sulphur on Growth and Yield of Groundnut (Arachis hypogaea L.). Biological Forum â€“ An International Journal, 13(1): 475-478.'),(2752,'90','Analyzing the Epidemiological Outbreak of COVID-19 using Descriptive and Predictive Analytics','Hakeem Ur Rehman , Muhammad Shafiq , Fizza Ghulam Nabi , Sana Hassan , Sajjad Ahmad Baig* and Umair Manzoor','46 Analyzing the Epidemiological Outbreak of COVID-19 using Descriptive and Predictive Analytics Sajjad Ahmad Baig 3557.pdf','',1,'','','','',''),(2753,'90','Impact of Organization Learning Processes on Organizational Effectiveness: The Moderated Mediation Analysis','Syed Hussain Mustafa Gillani , Malkah Noor Kiani , Sajjad Ahmad Baig, Shahzad Iqbal and Muhammad Zia ur Rehman','47 Impact of Organization Learning Processes on Organizational Effectiveness The Moderated Mediation Analysis Syed Hussain Mustafa Gillani 3563.pdf','',1,'','','','',''),(2754,'92','Status and Distribution of Leaf Spot of Blackgram Incited by Alternaria alternata in Krishna and Guntur Districts of Andhra Pradesh','Prathyusha D., Adinarayana M., Manoj Kumar V. and Ambarish K.V.','68 Status and Distribution of Leaf Spot of Blackgram Incited by Alternaria alternata in Krishna and Guntur Districts of Andhra Pradesh D. Prathyusha 815.pdf','',1,'Blackgram is an important pulse crop of Fabaceae grown mainly in India as a source of protein. However, yields can be negatively impacted by numerous factors, including disease, particularly those caused by fungi which create problems in both production and storage. Foliar diseases of blackgram such as Alternaria leaf spot caused by the Alternaria alternata (Fr.) Keissl. is becoming a major problem in blackgram fields of Andhra Pradesh and causes substantial yield losses, with reductions in plant health and seed quality. A minor disease so far, but becoming a major disease in recent times, there is every need to study about the disease. Information regarding work done reports on this disease was found to be scarce across India and abroad. Hence, a systematic and robust survey was conducted during kharif 2018 in Krishna and Guntur districts and also during rabi 2018-19 in Guntur district of Andhra Pradesh at 30-35, 40-45, 50-55 and 60-70 DAS and revealed that the disease incidence kept','Blackgram, Alternaria alternata, Survey and Disease severity.','This is the first ever research on status and distribution of Alternaria leaf spot of blackgram in major blackgram growing regions in Krishna and Guntur district, Andhra Pradesh. This research documented that leaf spot disease is widespread and uniform in blackgram fields during kharif as well as rabi seasons. It indicated that environmental conditions prevailing during kharif and rabi season were congenial for pathogen to cause disease. The information generated through this study could help the blackgram growers regarding disease management and selection of resistant cultivars, improving profitability and achieving food security. Furthermore, an exhaustive survey across all blackgram growing zones in Andhra Pradesh is required to identify the hot spot for the disease, as well as characterization of the pathogen population prevailing in blackgram growing is required to design regional specific management strategies. The easiest way of managing the disease is through direct deployment ','-','Prathyusha, D., Adinarayana, M., Manoj Kumar V. and Ambarish, K.V. (2021). Status and Distribution of Leaf Spot of Blackgram Incited by Alternaria alternata in Krishna and Guntur Districts of Andhra Pradesh. Biological Forum â€“ An International Journal,'),(2755,'92','Pseudomonas fluorescens: Biological Control Aid for Managing Various Plant Diseases: A Review','Sugam Bhetwal, Robin Rijal, Sachitanand Das, Ajay Sharma, Allam Pooja and Anudeep B. Malannavar','69 Pseudomonas fluorescens Biological Control Aid for Managing Various Plant Diseases A Review Dr. ANUDEEP B MALANNAVAR 766.pdf','',1,'Promiscuous usage of chemicals such as fertilizers and pesticides in agriculture sector has affected the environment and the ecosystem severely. Replacement of those hazardous biochemicals is very crucial and the best alternative solution for it is biological control or â€˜biocontrolâ€™. Biocontrol is natureâ€™s solution for it is the usage of microorganisms to restrict the pathogenâ€™s growth and reduction in the impact of disease. Plant diseases are a major cause of yield loss all over the globe. Usage of biocontrol agent Pseudomonas fluorescens has been substantial in the suppression of these phytopathogens along with the enhancement of plant growth. Fluorescent pseudomonads are the best choice since they are abundant in the soil rhizosphere and possess the ability to utilize various plant exudates as nutrient. They suppress the disease through various mechanisms such as production of volatile antibiotics and other auxiliary metabolites, siderophores, HCN while also competing with t','Biocontrol, Pseudomonas fluorescens, rhizosphere, mechanisms, versatility etc.','Huge progress has been made over the past few years in understanding the root colonization phenomenon by the fluorescent pseudomonads along with the several mechanisms through which it helps in suppressing soil borne phytopathogens. Remarkable advances have been made in the 21st century regarding the biotechnology of P. fluorescens biocontrol agents for the protection of crops. Biocontrol agents require assistance even after their application for proper establishment in the soil rhizosphere whereas chemical pesticides do not require it. So, to ensure biocontrol we must give emphasis to the quality of the biocontrol agent as well as keep an eye on how it performs in the niche while competing with other pathogens. P. fluorescens has a huge prospect in the future as a biocontrol agent and as a plant growth promoter in sustainable management practices. The major limitations of P. fluorescens in biocontrol are its shelf life and its incongruous performance in the field which can be improved','-','Bhetwal, S., Rijal, R., Das, S., Sharma, A., Pooja, A. and Malannavar, A.B. (2021). Pseudomonas fluorescens: Biological Control Aid for Managing various Plant Diseases: A Review. Biological Forum â€“ An International Journal, 13(1): 484-494.'),(2756,'92','An Insight into Market competitiveness of Bean to Bar Chocolate in Coimbatore City â€“ Application of Porterâ€™s Five Forces Model','Arun Viswanathan S.K., Mahendran, K., Moghana Lavanya S. and Sowmiyaa, S.','70 An Insight into Market competitiveness of Bean to Bar Chocolate in Coimbatore City â€“ Application of Porterâ€™s Five Forces Model SOWMIYAA S 779.pdf','',1,'Understanding the external business environment is necessary for any entrepreneur to invest in a market. Analysis of market competitiveness provides insights into various factors involved in major decision making efforts. The current paper has attempted the same with the help of established tools and techniques. SWOT analysis and Porters five forces model are the commonly used tools for analyzing business and market based planning. The bean to bar chocolate is one of the fastest growing segments in food industry and effective marketing strategies would help attract investments through the entry of new players and also aid the growth of the exiting companies in the market. This study aims at understanding the competitiveness of bean to bar segment using the five key factors of Porterâ€™s model by evaluating the competitive advantage and market profitability of bean to bar chocolate brands in Coimbatore City. The results of the study would serve as an eye-opener for budding entrepreneurs','Five forces model, bean to bar chocolates, chocolates, business environment, market competitiveness, strategy, entrepreneurs ','The Porters model of analysis of the five competitive forces led to early identification of the market trends for the bean to bar chocolate industry in Coimbatore city. The analysis can be used to exploit the emerging opportunity in the confectionary segment. Bargaining power of buyers of bean to bar chocolates as well as the suppliers in Coimbatore city was found to be low to moderate. The competitive rivalry between the existing brands in Coimbatore is moderate to high. The threat of substitute products was also found to be moderate to high. While all the five forces exerted pressure on the industry to an extent, competitive rivalry between exist-ing brands, threat of new entrants and substitutes were the major factors deciding the competitiveness of bean to bar chocolate industry in Coimbatore.','-','Arun Viswanathan, S.K., Mahendran, K., Moghana Lavanya, S. and Sowmiyaa, S. (2021). An Insight into Market competitiveness of Bean to Bar Chocolate in Coimbatore City â€“ Application of Porterâ€™s Five Forces Model. Biological Forum â€“ An Interna'),(2757,'92','Effect of Pretreatments on Nutritional Composition of Sorghum, Green Gram and Ragi','A.B. Shingote, S.K. Sadawarte, K.K. Gaikwad, D.B. Gajmal and V.S. Pawar','71 Effect of Pretreatments on Nutritional Composition of Sorghum, Green Gram and Ragi A. B. Shingote 756.pdf','',1,'The sorghum, ragi and green gram are some commonly used but very nutritious ingredients of many food products. The combinations of these ingredients can be used to improve specific or overall quality of diet or processed products. Each of the selected material has some nutritional advantage but they may have some challenges in their use. So various pretreatments are given to them to remove antinutritional factors, to make them more nutritious and digestible, to facilitate their milling etc. \r\nThe locally available varieties of selected materials were collected from the local market of Marathwada region of Maharashtra and analysed methodologically by using standard AOAC (2005) methods and proximate analysis of samples was carried out. Trypsin inhibitor activity of green gram was measured according to the procedure of Roy and Rao (1971) and Phytate content was determined by procedure elaborated by Haug and Lantzsch (1983).\r\nThe study was carried out to analyse effect of different pre-tre','Pre-treatment, soaking, malting, sorghum, green gram, ragi.','Overall it can be concluded that the malting is effective in reducing antinutritional compounds which allows to use malts in specific use products like complementary foods, geriatric foods etc. Malting also helps to improve digestibility of proteins and carbohydrates by converting them to their simple forms. Also the reduction in of content after sprouting and malting mainly related to its utilization as energy source in the sprouting process. Soaking helps to adjust moisture content of sorghum for milling i.e. conditioning.','-','Shingote, A.B.*, Sadawarte, S. K., Gaikwad, K.K., Gajmal, D.B. and Pawar, V.S. (2021). Effect of Pretreatments on Nutritional Composition of Sorghum, Green Gram and Ragi. Biological Forum â€“ An International Journal, 13(1): 501-505.'),(2758,'92','Bio-Efficacy of Trichoderma viride 1.15 % WP (Bio Cure-F) Against Wilt Disease of Chilli Caused by Fusarium oxysporum f. sp. capsici under Field Condition','H. Nazneen, S. Patar1 and R. Das ','72 BioEfficacy of Trichoderma viride 115 WP Bio CureFAgainst Wilt Disease of Chilli Caused by Fusarium oxysporum.pdf','',1,'Fusarium oxysporum f. sp. capsici, the causal organism of fusarium wilt of chilli is one of the destructive disease, which causes huge loss in chilli production. Wilt disease generally caused by soil borne pathogens, cannot be managed efficiently through chemical fungicides. There are limited resistant germplasm available against wilt pathogen of chilli throughout the world. The pathogen has wide host range. These are the major challenges in the management of fusarium wilt of chilli. The exploitation of biological agents has been recognized as a feasible option alternative to synthetic chemicals in the disease management. Evaluation of the effects of Trichoderma viride 1.15 % WP formulation (Bio Cure-F) on chilli wilt disease and investigation of the effect on the yield components and yield of chilli plants has been conducted in the present study. The field experiment was setup at Regional Research Sub-Station (R & L Zone), Bidhan Chandra Krishi Viswavidyalaya (BCKV), Sekhampur, Birbhu','Bio-efficacy, Chilli wilt, Trichoderma viride 1.15 % WP','Application of powder formulation of Trichoderma viride 1.15 % WP (Bio Cure- F) as seed treatment @ 5 g /kg of seeds and seedling dip @ 5 g/l of water and soil application @ 3 kg / ha at the time of transplanting and at the time of flowering recorded the effectual disease reduction and yield increase. Findings of the present experiment demonstrated a potential approach of biological control of wilt disease of chilli. Results of this work could be used as valuable, promising and eco-friendly strategy for the management of Fusarium wilt of chilli.','-','Nazneen, H., Patar, S. and Das, R. (2021). Bio-Efficacy of Trichoderma viride 1.15 % WP (Bio Cure-F) Against Wilt Disease of Chilli Caused by Fusarium Oxysporum F. sp. Capsici under Field Condition. Biological Forum â€“ An International Journal, 13(1): '),(2759,'92','Economics of Water used in Arecanut under Drip, Sprinkler and Flood Irrigation Method in Arecanut Growing areas of Chitradurga District of Karnataka, India\r\n\r\n','V.N. Narendra, S. Sahana and J. Chaithrashree','73 Economics of water used in Arecanut under drip, sprinkler and flood irrigation method in Arecanut growing areas of Chitradurga district of Karnataka, India Narendra V.N. 762.pdf','',1,'The study on Economics of water used in Arecanut under drip, sprinkler and flood irrigation methods in Arecanut growing areas of Chitradurga district of Karnataka during 2018-2019. Chitradurga district is a basic hard rock area that has a total geographical area of 8388 sq.kms. It receives low to moderate rainfall and is one of the drought-prone districts in the state. Normal annual rainfall in the district based on 30 years data is 574 mm. However, in the last decade, the district received an average annual rainfall of 631.10 mm varies between 668 mm in Holalkere in the western part and 457 in Challakere in the north eastern part. The farmers of the Chitradurga district were growing Arecanut in 23,697 ha. Among six taluks, Holalkere (13305 ha), Chitradurga (4559 ha), Hiriyur (2993 ha) and Challakere (610 ha) are the leading in area and production of Arecanut. Arecanut is a water intensive crop which requires about 16-20 litres of water per tree per day. But nowadays the water availabi','Water use efficiency, Economic efficiency, Net returns','The study affirms that as the farmers of Chitradurga district growing Arecanut under different irrigation methods have to shift towards drip irrigation which had a high productivity and high water use efficiency. At the same time in drip irrigation also used in sustainable manner by concentrate on other low quantity of water demanding crops other than Arecanut in order t maintain and save the underground water for future.','-','Narendra, V.N., Sahana, S. and Chaithrashree, J. (2021). Economics of water used in Arecanut under Drip, Sprinkler and Flood Irrigation Method in Arecanut Growing areas of Chitradurga District of Karnataka, India. Biological Forum â€“ An International '),(2760,'99','The Effect of Mixed Liquor Volatile Suspended Solids and Hydraulic Retention Time on the Removal Efficiency of Chemical Oxygen Demand through Aerobic Activated Sludge Process of Textile Wastewater','Irfan Ahmed Abbasi, Abdul F. Soomro, Sikandar Ali Abbasi, Naeem A. Abbasi, Zenab Tariq Baig and Aurangzeb Junejo','9 The Effect of Mixed Liquor Volatile Suspended Solids and Hydraulic Retention Time on the Removal Efficiency of Chemical Oxygen Demand through Aerobic Activated Sludge Process of TextileSikandar Ali Abbasi 3576.pdf','',1,'','','','',''),(2761,'99','Transformative Effects of IoT towards Smart Medical: Internet of Medical Things (IoMT) & Internet of Healthcare Things (IoHT)','Aamir Hussain, Aneela Mehmood, Farrukh Arslan, Shah Nawaz, Amir Ijaz and Mubashir Ali','10 Transformative Effects of IoT towards Smart Medical Internet of Medical Things _IoMT_ & Internet of Healthcare Things _IoHT_ Mubashir Ali-3588.pdf','',1,'','','','',''),(2762,'99','Transformative Effects of COVID-19 on Global Economy and Internet of Medical Things (IoMT): Current Vision, Role and Applications','Khurram Yussouf Tehseen, Naveed Imran, Awais Salman Qazi, Waqas Ahmad, Farrukh Arslan4, Amir Ijaz and Mubashir Ali','11 Transformative Effects of COVID-19 on Global Economy and Internet of Medical Things _IoMT_ Current Vision, Role and Applications Mubashir Ali 3594.pdf','',1,'','','','',''),(2763,'99','Transmission System Expansion Plan, Methodologies, Framework, and Financial Appraisal Parameters: A review','Imtiaz Hussain Gilani, Mohsin Amjad, Waqar Ali Sher, Talha Saeed, Hamza Saeed and Tariq Saeed','12 Transmission System Expansion Plan, Methodologies, Framework, and Financial Appraisal Parameters A review Imtiaz Hussain Gilani 3436.pdf','',1,'','','','',''),(2764,'92','Rhopalocera: Butterflies of Mahavir Harina Vanasthali National Park, Hyderabad, Telangana State','Kummari Swamy','74 Rhopalocera Butterflies of Mahavir Harina Vanasthali National Park, Hyderabad, Telangana State Kummari Swamy 736.pdf','',1,'The present study was carried out to understand the butterfly diversity in Mahavir Harina Vanasthali National Park, Hyderabad, Telangana from June 2017 to May 2019 in order to create a base line data for further research. Major forest type is Southern dry deciduous forest mixed with scrub jungle grasslands and plantations. In the present study a total of 69 species of butterflies in 46 genera from five families were recorded. Nymphalidae dominated the list with 28 species. Lycaenidaere presented with 16 species, Pieridae with 14 species, Papilionoidea with 7 and Hesperiidae with 4 species. It was found that three species of butterflies were listed under Schedule-I and four species listed under Schedule-II as per Indian Wildlife Protection Act 1972. This study will enlighten the information regarding the butterfly diversity and forms a baseline data for future butterfly studies could be conducted to obtain more details and documentation on butterfly diversity for the conservation.','Butterflies, Mahavir Harina Vanasthali National Park, Hyderabad','The present study was carried out to understand the butterfly diversity in Mahavir Harina Vanasthali National Park, Hyderabad, Telangana from June 2017 to May 2019 in order to create a base line data for further research. Major forest type is Southern dry deciduous forest mixed with scrub jungle grasslands and plantations. In the present study a total of 69 species of butterflies in 46 genera from five families were recorded. Nymphalidae dominated the list with 28 species. Lycaenidaere presented with 16 species, Pieridae with 14 species, Papilionoidea with 7 and Hesperiidae with 4 species. It was found that three species of butterflies were listed under Schedule-I and four species listed under Schedule-II as per Indian Wildlife Protection Act 1972. This study will enlighten the information regarding the butterfly diversity and forms a baseline data for future butterfly studies could be conducted to obtain more details and documentation on butterfly diversity for the conservation.','-','Swamy, K. (2021). Rhopalocera: Butterflies of Mahavir Harina Vanasthali National Park, Hyderabad, Telangana State. Biological Forum â€“ An International Journal, 13(1): 517-523.'),(2765,'92','Multiphase modification of Tissue Lyser Technique based Genomic DNA Isolation Protocol in Finger Millet (Eleusine coracana L)','Prafull Kumar, A K Sarawgi, B.K. Das, Deepak Sharma, Gautam Vishwakarma and Vikash Kumar','75 Multiphase modification of Tissue Lyser Technique based Genomic DNA isolation protocol in finger millet Eleusine coracana L Prafull Kumar 777.pdf','',1,'The semi-cereal crop Finger millet (Eleusine coracana (L) Gaertn) is presently gaining identity for its nutraceutical and climate resilient sustainable nature but research acceleration is being limited by non-application of high-throughput molecular biology protocols. 210 finger millet genotypes were taken by deploying time saving tissue lyser based DNA isolation technique for further molecular studies. Due to new crop biology viz., C4 carbon fixation pathway and presence of complex biochemical compounds like phenols; and non-parallelism with other model plant speciesâ€™ a new crop specific DNA isolation protocol termed â€œeasy stepâ€ was optimized. Utilizing standard reagents and chemicals of CTAB method of DNA isolation for plants, different aspect of DNA isolation viz. contamination with phenols, proper disintegration and high efficiency purification were optimized. Different combination, tissue lyser oscillation frequency and duration, along with other purification steps were opti','Phenolic compounds, PVP, Tissue lyser, C4 crop, Finger millet. ','Involvement of substantial amount of time and laboratory resources persuaded us to summarize and recompile the work as manuscript. Although, initially the report can be taken casually due to well standardised in other crop species namely rice, wheat, maize, oilseeds, pulses etc.; but in Finger millet the sophisticated molecular biology tools are yet to be explored with fine tune. We suggest from the study that taking 10-15 days old seedling using comb-stand method, addition of 1 percent (v/v) of Polyvinylpyrrolidone (PVP) complemented CTAB extraction buffer, using tissue lyser for crushing of leaf samples for 150 seconds at the interval of every 30 seconds and above discussed combination of temperature, spinning and timing for isolation of quality DNA in this limited explored crop species. The high quality and rapid DNA isolate will enrich the way of E. coracana towards high throughput techniques like next generation sequencing (Nguyen et al., 2019). Through combining the efforts of mo','-','Kumar, P., Sarawgi, A.K., Das, B.K., Sharma, D., Vishwakarma, G. and Kumar, V. (2021). Multiphase modification of Tissue Lyser Technique based Genomic DNA isolation protocol in finger millet (Eleusine coracana L). Biological Forum â€“ An International '),(2766,'92','Development of Potato Starch Based Biodegradable Packaging Film','Neha J. Hirpara, M.N. Dabhi and P.J. Rathod','76 Development of Potato Starch Based Biodegradable Packaging Film Neha J. Hirpara 746.pdf','',1,'This research work deals with incorporating the potato starch to make biodegradable packaging film using glycerol as a plasticizer. Starch is a very well known carbohydrate polymer, and plants from which it is obtained grow in nearly all the temperate zones. The experiment was conducted at Department of Processing and Food Engineering, College of Agricultural Engineering and Technology, Junagadh Agricultural University during 2019-20. The experiments were aimed to prepare a biodegradable plastic from renewable sources such as starch that would be environment-friendly. Optimization of preparation condition would help us to study the feasibility and potential of this starch with other additives to obtain a biodegradable as well as high tensile strength plastic. Development of starch film was carried out at different levels of starch concentration (5, 6.5, 8, 9.5 & 11) W/V % and glycerol concentration (0.5, 0.875, 1.250, 1.625 & 2) V/V % whereas distilled water 100 ml and acetic acid 1 ml','Biodegradable packaging, Potato starch, Glycerol, Biodegradable polymer, Synthetic polymer.','Biodegradable plastics have been successfully produced from potatoes using the aforementioned approach and experimental procedures. The plastic samples produced were characterized in order to determine their physical and physico-chemical properties. Based on the results obtained, it could be concluded that the potatoes which are available in large quantity or it is a good source of starch for the production of biodegradable plastics. Their renewability and minimization of environmental pollution/hazards are of great achievement. The moisture content of the film was increase with increased the starch and glycerol content. This behavior could be explained because increasing the starch content promotes the formation of more hydrogen bridges and plastic containing glycerol absorb more moisture which is likely due to the hydrophilic nature of glycerol. Transparency of the film was decreases with increase in the starch concentration and glycerol concentration due to more molecules of starch','-','Hirpara, N.J., Dabhi, M.N. and Rathod, P.J. (2021). Development of Potato Starch Based Biodegradable Packaging Film. Biological Forum â€“ An International Journal, 13(1): 529-541.'),(2767,'92','Nutritional Supplementary Role of Non-Standard Amino Acids and Amino Acid Derivatives','Areshdeep Kaur, Gursimran Kaur, Rajeev Kumar, Aditya Bansal, Saruchi, Daljeet Singh Dhanjal, Reena Singh and Chirag Chopra','77 Nutritional Supplementary Role of Non-Standard Amino Acids and Amino Acid Derivatives CHIRAG CHOPRA 751.pdf','',1,'Out of the several biological amino acids, 22 are considered protein building blocks. However, there are some non-standard amino acids and amino acid derivatives with health benefits and nutritional roles. There is a need for studies into the mechanisms by which these amino acids contribute to human health and nutrition. Lanthionine is a non-standard amino acid consisting of a trace of cysteine and a dehydrated serine. Its biosynthesis is a two-step metabolic pathway that is catalyzed in cystathionine beta-synthase and cystathionine gamma lyases. It is a non-protein amino acid produced as a side product of a trans-sulfuration reaction. Hydroxyproline is made with the assistance of the enzyme prolyl hydroxylase by hydroxylation of amino acid proline. Collagen stabilization is due to hydroxyproline which is a necessary form of protein collagen component. Dimethylglycine (DMG) is a derivative of glycine that plays a vital role in the body\'s overall metabolism. It helps the body to adapt t','Amino acids, DMG, Dopamine, GABA, Lanthionine. ','Lanthionine and hydroxyproline have many health benefits hydroxyproline; the clinical significance of this is that the lack of ascorbic acid in humans due to a deficiency in the hydroxylation of proline collagen residues with diminished collagen stability. Lanthionine ketimine act as neuroprotective, neuritigenic, andhas anti-inflammatory effects and many more. However, the biosynthesis of both lanthionine and hydroxyproline is complex. DMG is a derivative of glycine and plays a vital role in the overall metabolism of the body. It helps the body to adapt to any stressful environment out of the comfort zone. Production of DMG in the body leads to the east recovery of muscle and improve endurance in athletes. It is beneficial in dietary supplements and used in foods and beverages.\r\nMoreover, GABA is the primary inhibitory neurotransmitter and present in many food supplements such as shellfish, tomato and many more. The metabolic and regulatory flexibility of GSH is exceptional. GSH / GSS','-','Kaur, A., Kaur, G., Kumar, R., Bansal, A., Saruchi, Dhanjal, D.S., Singh, R. and Chopra, C. (2021). Nutritional Supplementary Role of Non-Standard Amino Acids and Amino Acid Derivatives. Biological Forum â€“ An International Journal, 13(1): 542-548.'),(2768,'92','Pichia stipitis: A Hospitable Host for Bioethanol Production','Tulika Sahay, Poojay Sanjay Yadav, Daljeet Singh Dhanjal, Chirag Chopra and Reena Singh','78 Pichia stipitis A Hospitable Host for Bioethanol Production Dr. Reena Singh 789.pdf','',1,'Humans discovered the fire when they needed to cook, wheels when they needed to travel and fuel when they needed to escalate all this process. This evolution of humanity increased pressure on nature, which has enough to satisfy our need but not our greed. Humans bathed in a new shower of change with every coming generation. Fuel is one of the essential parts of this change, and hence, a cloud of exhaustion keeps on covering its reserves, and the day is not too far when this cloud will bring the ultimate shower of change which will exhaust all the fuel reserves. Hence, the need to shift to an unconventional source of fuel production has risen. This paper mainly focuses on providing a solution to this continued exploitation of conventional fuel production sources by suggesting a viable alternative method. One such alternative can be biofuel, which is considered one of the most promising alternative fuel production sources. However, it too has its challenges like a proper selection of fee','Biofuel, Bioethanol, P. stipitis,Lignocellulosic biomass','Among the so many xylose-fermenting yeasts, the most promising one is Pichia stipitis owing to its ability to ferment xylose with high ethanol yield and very low to none xylitol accumulation. It shares a close relationship with the other yeasts,making endosymbiontof passalid beetles that inhibit and decompose white rotten hardwood (Abdu Yusuf and Inambao, 2019; Behera et al., 2014; Agbogbo and Wenger, 2006; Ghosh and Ghose, 2003). This particular yeast is the best xylose-fermenting microorganism compared to any known microorganism. In addition to xylose, this can consume other sugars found in wood as well. Theoretically, the fermented lignocellulosic sugars by P. stipitis can approach 80% yield. Because of its natural ability to ferment hydrolysates along with all the genetic tools available, it has become a major choice by scientists and producers to convert lignocellulose into fuels or other chemicals (Ruchala et al., 2020). A yeast group called \'respiro-fermentative\' yeast tells us','-','Sahay, T., Yadav, P.S., Dhanjal, D.S., Chopra, C. and Singh, R. (2021). Pichia stipitis: A Hospitable Host for Bioethanol Production. Biological Forum â€“ An International Journal, 13(1): 549-553.'),(2769,'92','Microbial Biomineralization: Creating Wealth from Waste','Ayush Aggarwal, Ishneet Kaur, Vaneet Kaur, Jasmeen Kaur, Mayank Tyagi, Daljeet Singh Dhanjal, Reena Singh and Chirag Chopra','79 Microbial Biomineralization Creating Wealth from Waste CHIRAG CHOPRA 752.pdf','',1,'Biomineralization is the formation of inorganic substances by microbes. Microorganisms can initiate and even control the mineralisation process through its various mechanisms. Biomineralization plays a vital role in building construction and its preservation. Concrete is a significant material used in constructing buildings, and E. coli, a bacterial species, increase the concrete strength by repairing the cracks that appear within it over time. Citrobacter sp., a bacteria, help remove toxic wastes from the environment via bioaccumulation. Bacillus spharecius decomposes urea for the formation of carbonate ions. These carbonate ions bind to calcium ions to form calcium carbonate (CaCO3), a mineral that serves many purposes, such as building construction, cement, and many more. Concrete is one of the most used materials globally for building construction. Biomineralization and self-repairing in concrete can address the problem of deterioration within it. Microbial induction in cement by ','Biomineralization, Bacteria, Self-healing, Concrete, Environment friendly. ','As we have discussed earlier that concrete is the most-used construction development material, and it pinpoints the fact that any damage and failure within a structure\'s design not only compromise its lifetime but also imposes a risk to infrastructure industries which will either directly or indirectly affect the developmental processes of urbanisation and industrialisation and these both platforms play a crucial role in determining the economic status of any country. So, to reduce the negative impacts of failed infrastructures, we need to adopt processes that will boost the Infrastructure industry, and self-healing concrete tends to have great potential to overcome this threat. Sporosarcina pasteuri with lightweight aggregate as a carrier can help induce biomineralization and strengthen the mortar structures. In this review paper, it\'s is mentioned that E. coli didn\'t contribute anything in strength, durability improvement but other microbes such as Bacillus mucilaginous, Bacillus sph','-','Aggarwal, A., Kaur, I., Kaur, V., Kaur, J., Tyagi, M., Dhanjal, D.S., Singh, R. and Chopra, C. (2021). Microbial Biomineralization: Creating Wealth from Waste. Biological Forum â€“ An International Journal, 13(1): 554-566.'),(2770,'92','Attitude Perspectives of Adolescent Girls on Lingerie Selection, Care and Healthy usage ','R. Sujatha and D. Sarada','80 Attitude Perspectives of Adolescent Girls on Lingerie Selection, Care and Healthy usage R. Sujatha 827.pdf','',1,'In India most of the girls and women continue to hide their inner wear from others, even while drying the lingerie are covered with another garment to prevent its view from passersby. Today, the adolescent girls are engaged in numerous activities both inside and outside their home, they need to attend to their self-care and dressing to function confidently which demands well-fitting inner wear. Furthermore, the fitness factor which has given rise to the sales of sports brassieres and briefs that suit the sporting activities of women. The present study is aimed at assessing the knowledge, attitude and practice of adolescent girls on lingerie selection, healthy usage and care and development of a need based educational intervention programme. The adolescent girls studying sixth class to second year degree in Chittoor district constituted the sample frame/ population. A sample of 150 girls of three age groups were selected from municipal corporation, Tirupati, 150 girls of three age grou','Lingerie, Adolescent girls, Attitude, Brassieres, selection of innerwear.','Lingerie has thus been a famous decision in concentrates on the female lingerie customers\' demeanor and conduct. Rather than the external clothing, be that as it may, almost no is perceived about the female lingerie buyers\' mentality for the basically imperceptible and exceptionally close to home class of the undergarments. The promoting blend factors just as the one of a kind segment qualities of every lingerie wearer are joined to propose the female undergarments purchasers\' mentality towards the lingerie items. This rundown of various relating factors the declaration that the female lingerie customers\' demeanor for lingerie buying will be not quite the same as that for all different sorts of clothing. Research indicated that good knowledge and attitudes regarding puberty prepares adolescents not only for promoting their physical health but also for gaining more experience in coping with the struggles of puberty. ','-','Sujatha, R. and Sarada, D. (2021). Attitude Perspectives of Adolescent Girls on Lingerie Selection, Care and Healthy usage. Biological Forum â€“ An International Journal, 13(1): 567-571.'),(2771,'92','Grain Nutritional Traits Analysis in Native Rice Landraces of Tamil Nadu','Theertha Prasad, S. Banumathy, D. Sassikumar, J. Ramalingam and M. Ilamaran','81 Grain Nutritional Traits Analysis in Native Rice Landraces of Tamil Nadu Theertha Prasad 797.pdf','',1,'Rice is an edible starchy cereal grain. Large part of the world population depends on rice for their daily carbohydrate needs. Locally cultivated rice landraces are excellent source for protein, fibre and ash. But nutritional studies in these landraces were abended in earlier days due to emphasis on developing high yielding new rice varieties and most of the landraces were long duration in nature (> 145 days) as compared to varieties (110 â€“ 130 days).In this study an experiment was conducted to study the nutritional properties viz., grain protein content, crude fibre and ash content in 60 native rice landraces. The standard methods developed by AOAC (2000) were followed in proximate analysis in rice grains. Analysis of variance and variability studies revealed that high variability between the genotypes for all three characters. High PCV, GCV and high heritability (h2) coupled with high genetic advance as percentage of mean (GAM) indicates that these characters are more influenced b','Protein analysis, Fibre, Landraces, Ash content, Nutritional traits, Rice','The results obtained from this study suggested that nutritional characterization of 60 landraces based on grain protein content, crude fibre and ash content exhibited considerable variation among these genotypes. Grain protein and crude fibre content are the major concern as rice nutritional properties. Majority of the entries studied registered high grain protein, moderate fibre and moderate ash content. The genotypes Kattu vanipam, Poongar, Palkichadi, Karuppu Kavuni, Kaivara samba, Barma Kavuni, Lalmati and Sivappu malli registered high grain protein along with high crude fibre and ash content. Since, these genotypes exhibited superiority in all three characters they can be used in breeding programmes for the development of varieties with high nutritive values. The availability of nutritional information in case of locally cultivated landraces is minimum the results obtained in this study enriches the nutritional data base of landraces. This available information can also be utilize','-','Prasad, T., Banumathy, S., Sassikumar, D., Ramalingam, J. and Ilamaran, M. (2021). Grain nutritional traits analysis in native rice landraces of Tamil Nadu. Biological Forum â€“ An International Journal, 13(1): 572-577.'),(2772,'92','Spatial Distribution and Incidence of Dry Root Rot of Pigeonpea Caused by Rhizoctonia bataticola (Taub.) Butler and Stem Canker Caused by Macrophomina phaseolina (Tassi) Goid]','G. Vamsikrishna, S.K. JayaLakshmi, D.S. Aswathanarayana, Y.S. Amaresh and S. Muniswamy','82 Spatial Distribution and Incidence of Dry Root Rot of Pigeonpea Caused by Rhizoctonia bataticola _Taub._ Butler and Stem Canker Caused by Macrophomina phaseolina Tassi Goid] G. VAMSI KRISHNA 795.pdf','',1,'Pigeonpea is one of the protein rich legume crops grown in India. The production and\r\nproductivity were very less due to losses caused by dry root tot and stem canker diseases from flowering to\r\nharvesting stage. The disease dry root rot caused by R. bataticola and stem canker caused by Macrophomina\r\nphaseolina is a seed borne as well as soil borne necrotic fungal pathogens infecting more than 284 plant\r\nspecies including monocot and dicots throughout the world. It is the most destructive disease and causes\r\nsevere yield loss in major pigeonpea growing areas of North-Eastern Karnataka. Keeping this in view, a\r\ncomprehensive and systematic survey was conducted by using GPS coordinates during the months of\r\nOctober-November 2018 in the farmerâ€™s field at Kalaburgi, Raichur, Yadgir and Bidar districts to know the\r\nstatus of incidence of dry root rot and severity of stem canker disease. The obtained results revealed that\r\nmean maximum dry root rot incidence was noticed in Kalaburgi distri','dry root rot, Macrophomina phaseolina, Pigeonpea, Rhizoctonia bataticola, stem Canker.','The maximum incidence of dry root rot of pigeonpea\r\nwas 24.20 per cent in Kalaburgi and least was in Yadgir\r\ndistrict to an extent 9.14 per cent during kharif 2015.\r\nThe maximum severity of stem canker of pigeonpea\r\nwas 29.72 per cent in Kalaburgi and least was in\r\nRaichur district to an extent 4.97 per cent during kharif\r\n2015.','-','Vamsikrishna, G., JayaLakshmi, S.K., Aswathanarayana, D.S.,Amaresh, Y.S\r\nand Muniswamy, S. (2021). Spatial Distribution and Incidence of Dry Root Rot of Pigeonpea caused by Rhizoctonia bataticola\r\n(Taub.) Butler and Stem Canker Caused by Macrophomina phas'),(2773,'92','Effect of Spacing and age of Seedling on Growth and Yield of finger Millet (Eleusine coracana L.)','Sanjay K.J., Vikram Singh, Dhananjay Tiwari, Shruti G. George and Padachala Swathi','83 Effect of Spacing and age of Seedling on Growth and Yield of finger Millet Eleusine coracana L. Sanjay K.J. 744.pdf','',1,'A field experiment was carried out during kharif season of 2020 at Crop Research Farm, Department of Agronomy, SHUATS, Prayagraj (U.P.). The soil of experimental plot was sandy loam in texture, nearly neutral in soil reaction (pH 7.1), low in organic carbon (0.28%), available N (225kg/ha), available P (19.50kg/ha) and available K (213.7kg/ha). The treatments consisted of three different row spacing viz. 20 cm Ã— 10 cm, 25 cm Ã— 10 cm and 30 cm Ã— 10 cm and three different age of seedling viz. 15 day old seedling, 20 day old seedling, and 25 day old seedling, whose effect was observed on Finger millet (GPU - 28). The experiment was laid out in Randomized Block Design with 9 treatments and replicated thrice. The results revealed that treatment with 20 cm Ã— 10 cm + 20 days old seedling recorded maximum plant height (77.74 cm), more number of tillers per plant (7.39), plant dry weight (13.64 g/plant), number of grains per ear head (2013.67), number of effective tillers/m2 (149.17/m2), gra','Finger miller, Row spacing, Age of seedling, Growth, Yield.','The findings based on above research trial indicated that spacing and age of seedling gave positive effect on growth and yield of Finger millet. The treatment combination 20cm Ã— 10cm + 20 days old seedling was found more productive (2680.00kg/ha) as well as economically viable (INR78,896.33/ha). Concluded that treatments of 20cm Ã— 10cm + 20 days old seedling is beneficial for farmers practice.','-','Sanjay, K.J., Vikram Singh, Dhananjay Tiwari, Shruti G. George and Padachala Swathi (2021). Effect of Spacing and age of Seedling on Growth and Yield of finger Millet (Eleusine coracana L.). Biological Forum â€“ An International Journal, 13(1): 585-589.'),(2774,'92','Cyanobacteria - A potential Gram-Negative Bacteria as an alternative for Fertilizers and Bioremediation','Ajay Sharma, Robin Rijal, Sugam Bhetwal, Sachitanand Das, and Anudeep B. Malannavar','84 Cyanobacteria - A potential Gram-Negative Bacteria as an alternative for Fertilizers and Bioremediation Dr. ANUDEEP B MALANNAVAR 770.pdf','',1,'Cyanobacteria are the only Prokaryotes which perform oxygenic-photosynthesis, cosmopolitan in nature and adapted well in harsh condition of environment. It is being used in agriculture, food processing, biotechnology etc. from a long time due to its contents. Proteins, carbohydrates, mineral, vitamins present in it make it a nutritious food supplement and ability to fix dinitrogen make it useful for agricultural activities. Quick and short growth span is one of advantage which makes it more useful. Cyanobacteria is being used by research scholars in treating sodic soils and increasing soil productivity for different crops. It helps to replace the chemical fertilizers and hence contributes to reduce pollution and proved as a potential biofertilizer. In addition, it is being used in production of biofuels including biodiesel, methane, alkane, alcohol etc. Along with agricultural benefits its uses are mentioned in treatment of waste water, sewage too. Disease and Pest controlled is also a','Blue-green algae, oxygenic-photosynthesis, nitrogen, biofuels, food.','Cyanobacteria are photosynthetic bacteria, ubiquitous in nature and are only Prokaryotes which perform oxygenic-photosynthesis. Due to easy and economical cultivation practices in open and closed conditions too, a lot of research carried on cyanobacteria. Hundreds of research results in finding the true effects and benefits of cyanobacteria in real-life situations, if it be agriculture or pharmaceutical or industrial or any other. Approximately 200 species of are identified and recorded with their potentials and research works are going on to identify more if present and to find the best potentials of these cyanobacterial species. Their total efficiency is not discovered completely but it is proved as a potential food, fertilizer, biodegrading, soil treating and a disease controlling agent. It can fix the dinitrogen through specific mechanism and is eco-friendly. It provides N as well as growth promoters to enhance the plant growth hence providing double benefit and save a lot of effor','-','Sharma, A., Rijal, R., Bhetwal, S., Das, S. and Malannavar, A.B. (2021). Cyanobacteria - A potential Gram-Negative Bacteria as an alternative for Fertilizers and Bioremediation. Biological Forum â€“ An International Journal, 13(1): 590-601.'),(2775,'92','Comparison of the Life Cycle Related Parameters of Bracon hebetor say on Helicoverpa armigera Hubner Reared on different Hosts','Nivedita Shah, Jayalaxmi Ganguli A.K. Bhowmick and Sachin Kumar Jaiswal','85 Comparison of the Life Cycle Related Parameters of Bracon hebetor say on Helicoverpa armigera Hubner Reared on different Hosts Shah Nivedita 803.pdf','',1,'Helicoverpa armigera is a prolific, widespread, troublesome and difficult to control insect due to its high mobility, high fecundity and ability to develop resistance against chemical insecticides. In recent years, efforts are being focused on the development of eco-friendly and non-chemical strategies for insect pest management, among which the use of natural enemies ie. parasitoids and predatorsis gaining popularity and spreading its wings across the world including India. Bracon hebetor is one of the important and effective larval ectoparasitoids, that attacks a variety of lepidopteran pests of field crops including the notorious H. armigera. Since diet plays an important role in the growth and life cycle related parameters of any insect, particularly for polyphagous pests, which further acts as a decisive factor for the parasitoids, choosing their host for attack. Hence, it is imperative to know the best suitable diet, therefore, the present study on the comparison of life cycle ','Bracon hebetor, life stages, H. armigera, parasitoid, fecundity, developmental time.','Thus, among the nine hosts tested, C. cephalonica was found to be highly suitable for the rearing of B. hebetor which is evident by maximum oviposition and emergence of adults with a shortest developmental period of various immature stages. However, H. armigera larvae reared on chickpea and marigold were also found suitable for the rearing of B. hebetor in case the factitious host, C. cephalonica was not available, followed by the larvae reared on tomato, soybean, maize, and artificial diet, whereas pigeon pea and cabbage were found to be least effective for the rearing of the ectoparasitoid, B. hebetor. Since, H. armigera is causing high economic losses to farmers, the utilization of B. hebetor parasitoids might be helpful to facilitate farmers in the control of economically important crop pests of Lepidoptera order. Hence, proper timing of release synchronizing with the availability of hosts would ensure successful control of H. armigera.','-','Shah, N., Ganguli. J., Bhowmick, A.K. and Jaiswal, S.K. (2021). Comparison of the Life Cycle Related Parameters of Bracon hebetor say on Helicoverpa armigera Hubner Reared on different Hosts. Biological Forum â€“ An International Journal, 13(1): 602-606.'),(2776,'92','Application of Indigenous Biofilm Forming Bacterial Strain in Bioremediation of Heavy Metals','Mohit Kumar Mehra and Evangeline Christina','86 Application of Indigenous Biofilm Forming Bacterial Strain in Bioremediation of Heavy Metals Dr. Evangeline Christina 740.pdf','',1,'Contamination of the environment by heavy metals has posed as a serious risk to not only the environment but is also a serious health risk to humans because of their long-term effects and involvement in the food chains. These heavy metals interfere with the cellular function of microorganisms, plants, animals and humans leaving all the living organisms at a health risk. To solve the problem of heavy metal pollution several methods are being implemented but the most convenient method is bioremediation where the microorganisms are being used for the transformation of heavy metals into lesser toxic forms. The major drawbacks faced during the bioremediation are the slower rate and inability to control the process in natural environment, but due to the growing concern of the world towards the problem of heavy metal pollution, the removal of heavy metals by bioremediation is considered as the long term effective and the logical method by being less expensive and effective when compared to ot','Biofilm, Bioremediation, Heavy metals, Pollution, Toxicity','Microorganisms are known to be ubiquitous in the biosphere and their presence can be beneficial or harmful to the environment. There is no naturally occurring compound which cannot be degraded by some microbe. This property of microorganisms can be utilized to degrade the contaminants and pollutants which are causing harm to any ecosystem and its residents proving that bioremediation can be a powerful tool for the clean-up of these sites. Heavy metals are naturally present elements which have higher atomic weights. Heavy metals have various utilization in industries, domestic, medical field, agriculture and technology and this has led to the existence of heavy metals in the ecosystem which has raised concerns because of their potential adverse effects on the health of humans and environment. Heavy metals are considered hazardous to the ecosystem because of their three characteristics: persistence, bioaccumulation and toxicity. There have been various traditional methods for the removal','-','Mehra, M.K. and Christina, E. (2021). Application of Indigenous Biofilm Forming Bacterial Strain in Bioremediation of Heavy Metals. Biological Forum â€“ An International Journal, 13(1): 607-616.'),(2777,'92','Influence of Spacing and Organic Manures on Growth, Yield and Economics of\r\nMung Bean (Vigna radiata L.)\r\n','Anumandla Swetha Priyadharshini, Vikram Singh, Dhananjay Tiwari, Budige Karthik and Kumbam Mahesh','87 Influence of Spacing and Organic Manures on Growth, Yield and Economics of Mung Bean Vigna radiata L. Anumandla Swetha Priyadharshini 748.pdf','',1,'The present study aimed to evaluate the influence of spacing and organic manures on Mung bean (var. â€œNIDHI SAMRATâ€) conducted during Kharif 2020 at SMOF (SHUATS Model Organic Farm) of Agronomy, SHUATS, Prayagraj (U.P.). Spacing and Organic Manures are the important factors for increasing the production and economics The soil experimental plot was sandy loam in texture, nearly neutral in soil reaction (pH 7.4), low in organic carbon (0.45%), available P (27.0 kg/ha) and available K (313.6 kg/ha). With combination of spacing and organic manures viz: 30Ã—10 cm2, 40Ã—10 cm2, 50Ã—10 cm2 and Vermicompost 4 t/ha, FYM 10 t/ha, Poultry manure 2 t/ha. The experiment was laid out in Randomized Block Design with 9 treatments each replicated thrice. The results showed that viz: Plant height (50.04 cm), was recorded significantly higher with combination of spacing and organic manures. 30Ã—10 cm2 + FYM 10 t/ha. Whereas, number of branches/plant (4.26), number of nodules/plant (45.80), dry weight ','Greengram, Spacing(s), Vermicopost, FYM, Poultry manure','Based on the findings it may be concluded that for optimum seed yield and economics, the performance of greengram at spacing of 30Ã—10 cm2 and along with the organic manures FYM 10 t/ha is the best for rain fed conditions.','-','Priyadharshini, A.S., Singh, V., Tiwari, D., Karthik, B. and Mahesh, K. (2021). Influence of Spacing and Organic Manures on Growth, Yield and Economics of Mung Bean (Vigna radiata L.). Biological Forum â€“ An International Journal, 13(1): 617-621.'),(2778,'98','Quality Assessment of Azama â€“ A Toasted African Yam Bean (Sphenostylis stenocarpa) Seed Snack in Abia State, Nigeria','Dorothy. C. Arukwe and Juliet. A. Arukwe','5 Quality Assessment of Azama â€“ A Toasted African Yam Bean _Sphenostylis stenocarpa_ Seed Snack in Abia State, Nigeria Dorothy. C.pdf','',1,'','','','',''),(2779,'98','Surgical Management of Skin Abscesses in New Zealand White Rabbits â€“ A Clinical Case Report','R. Divisha and R.Vigneshwar','6 Surgical Management of Skin Abscesses in New Zealand White Rabbits â€“ A Clinical Case Report Divisha R. 1280.pdf','',1,'','','','',''),(2780,'92','Facing the Challenges of Food crisis and Livelihood Security in India under the Threat of COVID-19','Pushpa Yadav and Punit Kumar Agarwal','88 Facing the Challenges of Food crisis and Livelihood Security in India under the Threat of COVID-19 Dr. Punit Kumar Agarwal 683.pdf','',1,'The novel corona virus was first identified in December 2019 and it is a respiratory disease, which had affected to at least 240 countries on the earth. Corona virus has rapidly spread across the world and devastated the lives of millions of people on the earth. Corona virus has affected each and every sector of the economy and it is very difficult to measure its impact on each and every sector separately. One can predict the losses and damaged caused by the virus spread on the bases of available data and facts. Though there are some sectors in which data is not available now, but it can be predicted from the past crisis that the after effect of the pandemic might be more severe than our prediction. These sectors may be the most vulnerable sector and highly affected sectors due to this virus. Agriculture and food sector is one of the sector in which it is very difficult to predict the impact of COVID-19 as of late March, 2020, the impact of this virus on agriculture and food security ','COVID-19, livelihood security, food security, migrant workers, informal sector workers, food supply chain, agriculture sector, lockdown. ','The novel corona virus was first identified in December 2019 and it is a respiratory disease, which had affected to at least 240 countries on the earth. Corona virus has rapidly spread across the world and devastated the lives of millions of people on the earth. Corona virus has affected each and every sector of the economy and it is very difficult to measure its impact on each and every sector separately. One can predict the losses and damaged caused by the virus spread on the bases of available data and facts. Though there are some sectors in which data is not available now, but it can be predicted from the past crisis that the after effect of the pandemic might be more severe than our prediction. These sectors may be the most vulnerable sector and highly affected sectors due to this virus. Agriculture and food sector is one of the sector in which it is very difficult to predict the impact of COVID-19 as of late March, 2020, the impact of this virus on agriculture and food security ','-','Yadav, P. and Agarwal, P.K. (2021). Facing the Challenges of Food crisis and Livelihood Security in India under the Threat of COVID-19. Biological Forum â€“ An International Journal, 13(1): 622-626.'),(2781,'92','Soil Physicochemical Properties as Affected by Organic Weed Management and Conservation Agriculture in Rice- Maize Cropping System of IGP','Subhra Sahoo, D. K. Roy, M. Kumar, Rajeswari Das and M.J. Baldhaniya','89 Soil Physicochemical Properties as Affected by Organic Weed Management and Conservation Agriculture in Rice- Maize Cropping System of IGP Subhra Sahoo 825.pdf','',1,'Soil health is vital for agriculture, both in the short and long term. To sustain plants, animals and humans, soil need to have a sustained capacity to function as a dynamic living ecosystem. Thus, to maintain soil health, integrating the goods of both conservation agriculture and organic crop management practices can be a potential area of research. To explore this idea, an investigation was conducted at Research Farm, Rajendra Agricultural University, Pusa during kharif and rabi, 2020. The experiment was planned as a split-plot design and was replicated thrice. There were twenty treatment combinations, with four tillage practices as main-plot and five organic weed management treatments in the sub-plot. Soil from the experimental field (0-15 cm depth) was sampled and laboratory analysis following the standard procedures of various physico-chemical properties was conducted to study the combined effects of organic weed management and conservation agriculture. The results showed a reduct','Conservation tillage; Organic weed management; P- enriched vermicompost mulch, Soil organic carbon (SOC); Cation exchange capacity (CEC), water holding capacity (WHC)','Organic weed management and tillage influenced all the physico-chemical properties. The soil under study is calcareous so a reduction in soil pH and EC with the adoption of conservation tillage and mulch application can create an appropriate environment for many soil biochemical processes. There was an increase in the SOC content due to the application of mulch and residue retention in CA plots. While bulk density reduced there was an increase in WHC in mulched and residue retained permanent bed plots. Better soil physical condition will have good soil aeration, thus can promote easy crop establishment, root penetration water availability during crop growth. Increased SOC and microbial activity can increase the availability of soil nutrients. Higher CEC indicates better nutrient absorption and crop growth. From the present investigation, it can be concluded that adopting conservation tillage practice with residue retention along with organic mulching can substantially improve soil hea','-','Sahoo, S., Roy, D.K., Kumar, M., Das, R. and Baldhaniya, M.J. (2021). Soil Physicochemical Properties as Affected by Organic Weed Management and Conservation Agriculture in Rice- Maize Cropping System of IGP. Biological Forum â€“ An International Journ'),(2782,'97','First report of the Anthropoidesvirgo(Linnaeus, 1758) (Gruiformes: Gruidae) from the Ganges near Haridwar, Uttarakhand, India','Ritesh Joshi, Kanchan Puri*','First report of the Anthropoidesvirgo9.pdf','',1,'','','','',''),(2783,'97','New Report of Occurrence of Greater False Vampire Bat Megaderma lyra (Geoffroy, 1810) (Megadermatidae: Chiroptera) in Gondia District, Maharashtra, India','Gopal Paliwal*, Sudhir Bhandarkar','New Report of Occurrence of Greater.pdf','',1,'','','','',''),(2784,'98','Documenting Traditional Knowledge before they are Forgotten: A Study on the Ethnomedicinal uses of Wild Plants by Rural People of Jubbarhatti in District Shimla, Himachal Pradesh, India','Radha, Salena Janjua, Mansoor Ali, Mamta Thakur, Radhika Jamwal, Sonia Rathour, Akshay Kumar Pubral, Neeraj Kumari, Sunil Puri, Ashok Pundir and Manoj Kumar','7 Documenting Traditional Knowledge before they are Forgotten A Study on the Ethnomedicinal uses of Wild Plants by Rural People of Jubbarhatti in District Shimla, Himachal Pradesh, India RADHA 1285.pdf','',1,'','','','',''),(2785,'92','Evaluation of Growth, Yield and Economics of Maize (Zea mays L.) Hybrids under Agro Climatic Conditions of Prayagraj (U.P.)','Kadiyala Naveena, Vikram Singh and Dhananjay Tiwari','90 Evaluation of Growth, Yield and Economics of Maize _Zea mays L._ hybrids under agro climatic conditions of Prayagraj _U.P._ Kadiyala Naveena 774.pdf','',1,'A trial was carried out during the Kharif season 2020 at the experimental plot of Crop Research Farm, which was located near the department of Agronomy, SHUATS, Prayagraj, (U.P.). The Soil of the experimental site was sandy loam in texture, nearly neutral in soil reaction. The experiment consists of different Hybrids viz., KM-11, KM-12, KM-13, KM-14, KM-15, KM-16, KM-17, KM-18, KM-19, KM-20, and KM-21. It was carried out through a statistical design of Randomized Block Design (RBD) with three replications. A Full dose of phosphorus and potassium fertilizers were applied as basal while, half of the nitrogen was applied as basal and the remaining half was applied 25, 45 days after sowing. Report of the study indicates among different Hybrids KM-19 produced significantly higher plant height (213.50 cm), number of leaves/plant (11.87), and dry weight/plant (75 g). Hybrid KM-19 also fetched the highest gross returns (1, 83,614.17 INR/ha), net returns (1, 33,454.17 INR/ha), and benefit-cos','Hybrids, Yield, Growth, Economics, Genetic variation, Pest, Disease.','Among all hybrids, KM-19 was found to be the best by obtaining the highest growth and yield and also a better B: C ratio. It was found more productive, when compared to others under agroclimatic conditions of Prayagraj, U.P. The public sector hybrids need to be tested in different agro-climatic conditions as they possess genetic variation, to find out best-performing hybrids for their release in the market. KM-19 was found best in Prayagraj condition compared to others.','-','Naveena, K., Singh, V. and Tiwari, D. (2021). Evaluation of Growth, Yield and Economics of Maize (Zea mays L.) hybrids under agro climatic conditions of Prayagraj (U.P.). Biological Forum â€“ An International Journal, 13(1): 633-637.'),(2786,'92','Bioplastic from Waste: A Short Review','Mehvish Shakeel Bhat, Marpu Adi Lakshmi and Rattan Deep Singh','91 Bioplastic from Waste A Short Review Dr. Rattan Deep Singh 719.pdf','',1,'Bioplastic plays an important role in our environment as it is compatible and eco-friendly when compared to plastic bags. Bioplastic are made of organic waste produced from environment and it disintegrates faster than plastic as they are made of chain of polymers which takes billions- millions of years to disintegrate. Plastic made our environment poisonous, aquatic animals to die and many more. Environmental friendly plastic is made of many organic wastes like banana peel, sugarcane bagasse, newspaper, shrimps etc. Bioplastic mostly utilised in food packaging so that they are edible to humans and doesnâ€™t cause any disease and disintegrates fast. Bioplastic is helpful to mankind and useful to reduce \r\nenvironmental pollution\r\n','Plastic, environment, waste, pollution, packaging','After having a detailed study about plastics, it is well understood that they can cause a serious threat to the environment and also to humankind. Therefore, the intervention of bioplastics is very much essential and should be a major subject of research in order to protect the life on earth. Different methods of generation and applications of bioplastics has been discussed in methodology where starch and cellulose is found to have major importance.Using this the gap between the application of bioplastics and its study can be fulfilled, and the concept of bioplastics can be into application and lead the environment and research into a better future.','-','Bhat, M.S., Lakshmi, M.A. and Singh, R.D. (2021). Bioplastic from Waste: A Short Review. Biological Forum â€“ An International Journal, 13(1): 638-644.'),(2787,'92','Influence of Phosphorus and Potassium Levels on Growth, Yield and Economics of Sesame (Sesamum indicum L.) under eastern Uttar Pradesh Condition','Ankita Priyadarshini, Umesha, C. and M.R. Meshram','92 Influence of Phosphorus and Potassium levels on Growth, Yield and Economics of Sesame _Sesamum indicum L._ under eastern Uttar Pradesh condition ANKITA PRIYADARSHINI 832.pdf','',1,'The field experiment was conducted during Zaid-2020 at Crop Research Farm, Department of\r\nAgronomy, SHUATS, Prayagraj, (U.P.). The experiment was laid out in Randomized block design and having\r\nnine treatment consisted of 40 kg P/ha + 30 kg K/ha, 40 kg P/ha + 20 kg K/ha, 40 kg P/ha + 10 kg K/ha, 30 kg\r\nP/ha + 30 kg K/ha, 30 kg P/ha + 20 kg K/ha, 30 kg P/ha + 10 kg K/ha, 20 kg P/ha + 30 kg K/ha, 20 kg P/ha +\r\n20 kg K/ha, 20 kg P/ha + 10 kg K/ha which replicated thrice. The result shown significantly higher in growth\r\nparameter viz., Plant height (116.9 cm), Number of Branches per plant (3.73), Leaf area (2568.7 cm2), Plant\r\ndry weight (15.24 g) and yield parameters viz., Seed yield (361 kg/ha) and Stover yield (1641.15 kg/ha) were\r\nrecorded with application of 40 kg P/ha + 20 kg K/ha. Harvest index (18.05%) was found to be nonsignificant.\r\nMaximum Gross return (62390 INR/ha), Net return (27498.3 INR/ha) and B:C ratio (1.79) also\r\nresulted under application of 40 kg P/ha plus 20 kg K/ha.','Growth, Economics, Phosphorus, Potassium, Sesame, Yield','It is concluded that application of 40 kg P/ha + 20 kg\r\nK/ha recorded significantly higher Plant height, number\r\nof Branches Per plant, Leaf area, Plant dry weight, Seed\r\nyield, Stover yield, maximum Gross return, Net return,\r\nand Benefit Cost ratio as compared to other treatment\r\ncombinations in sesame under Eastern Uttar Pradesh\r\nconditions.','-','Priyadarshini, A., Umesha, C. and Meshram, M.R. (2021). Influence of Phosphorus and Potassium\r\nlevels on Growth, Yield and Economics of Sesame (Sesamum indicum L.) under eastern Uttar Pradesh condition. Biological\r\nForum â€“ An International Journal, 13(1'),(2788,'92','Effect of Blanching on Nutritional Quality of Different Pearl Millet Cultivars','P.A. Pawase, U.D. Chavan and P.M. Kotecha ','93 Effect of Blanching on Nutritional Quality of Different Pearl Millet Cultivars P.A. Pawase 837.pdf','',1,'Blanching is one of the most useful hydrothermal treatments, in which various pearl millet grains were treated with hot water at 98 oC for 30 seconds. Effect of hot water blanching on nutritional quality parameters like polyphenols, fat acidity, acid value, crude fat and reducing sugar content were determined over different storage period. The highest polyphenol content was found in blanched sample of Phule Mahasakti variety 380.78mg/100g, while the lowest was found in Phule Adishakti variety 231.14mg/100g. The fat acidity, acid value, crude fat and reducing sugar of blanched samples of five different pearl millet cultivars ranged from 11.23 to 33.6mg KOH/100g, 1.62 to 19.43 mg KOH/100g, 5.80 to 6.75% and 0.39 to 0.88%, respectively. During the storage of blanched and unblanched samples of different pearl millet cultivars leads to increases in polyphenol, fat acidity, acid value, crude fat and reducing sugar over 0 to 90 days storage period. The major challenge concern with pea','Blanching, Hydrothermal, polyphenols, Reducing sugar and crude fat ','Blanching is one of the most useful hydrothermal treatments, which helps in significant amount of reduction of polyphenol, fat acidity and acid value and aids to increases the shelf life and nutrient availability of pearl millet flour during storage. \r\nDue to blanching process significant amount of polyphenol reduction and which will helps to make nutrient availability like minerals (calcium and phosphorus). During the storage of blanched samples of pearl millet, no significant effect on crude fat and reducing sugars content over different storage period. \r\n','-','Pawase, P.A., Chavan, U.D. and Kotecha, P.M. (2021). Effect of Blanching on Nutritional Quality of Different Pearl Millet Cultivars. Biological Forum â€“ An International Journal, 13(1): 651-661.'),(2789,'99','The Effect of using Olive Oil Mill Wastewater on Bending and Compression Properties of Cement Mortar','Husein A. Alzgool, Zeyad Alshboul, Ahmad S. Alfraihat and Hadeel Alzghool','13 The Effect of using Olive Oil Mill Wastewater on Bending and Compression Properties of Cement Mortar Husein A.pdf','',1,'','','','',''),(2793,'92','Impact of DBT Biotech Kisan Hub Project on Production, Productivity and Socio Economic Variables of Pulse and Oilseeds Growing Farmers of Rayalaseema Region of Andhra Pradesh','G. Prasad Babu, T. Srinivas, T. Venkata Sridhar and T. Muralikrishna','94 Impact of DBT Biotech Kisan Hub Project on production, productivity and socio economic variables of pulse and oil seeds growing farmers of Rayalaseema region of Andhra Pradesh Dr. T. Srinivas 805.pdf','',1,'The present study was conducted in Krishi Vigyan Kendra (KVK), Banavasi in Kurnool district\r\nand KVK, Kalyandurg in Ananthapuramu district cluster adopted villages of Rayalaseema region in Andhra\r\nPradesh state under Biotech KISAN project. Groundnut, pigeonpea and chickpea are important rainfed\r\noilseed and pulse crops in these districts but the yields are not up to expectations due to adoption of old\r\nvarieties, raifned farming, pests and disease incidence. Major challenges are to enhance the production,\r\nproductivity, acreage of pulses and oilseeds by introducing latest Integrated Crop Management practices to\r\nachieve self sufficiency. This was tested on small scale for 2 years with the help of On-farm technology\r\ndemonstrations with 130 locations in Ananthapuramu district and in 160 locations in Kurnool district. The on\r\nfarm technology demonstrations on oils eed crop like groundnut and pulse like pigeonpea and chickpea crops\r\nwere conducted by both KVKs in their cluster adopted vil','On farm demonstrations, production, productivity, extension gap, technology gap, technology index,\r\nsocio economic impact, correlation, frequency, percentage.','The results clearly indicated that the higher average\r\nyield and net returns were obtained in demonstration\r\nplots over the years compared to farmerâ€™s practice due\r\nto high knowledge and adoption of full package of\r\npractices i.e. use of improved seed, application of biofertilizers,\r\nrecommended dose of fertilizers, use of IPM\r\nkits like pheromone traps, sticky traps, trap crops, bird\r\nperches etc. and timely application of plant protection\r\nchemicals whereas due to lack of knowledge on use of\r\nbio fertilizers, balanced dose of fertilizer, IPM practices\r\nyields were low in farmerâ€™s practice. The FLDs\r\nproduced a significant positive result and provided an\r\nopportunity to demonstrate the productivity potential\r\nand profitability of the latest technology (intervention)\r\nunder real farming situation. Therefore the study\r\nconcludes that technology demonstrations conducted by\r\nKVKs under Biotech KISAN Project in Rayalaseema\r\nregion in pulses and oilseeds made significant impact\r\non hori','-','Babu, G.P., Srinivas, T., Sridhar, T.V. and Muralikrishna, T. (2021). Impact of DBT Biotech Kisan\r\nHub Project on production, productivity and socio economic variables of pulse and oilseeds growing farmers of Rayalaseema\r\nregion of Andhra Pradesh. Biologi'),(2794,'92','Development and Process Standardisation of Millet Based Instant Appe Mix and its Quality Evaluation ','S.S. Wandhekar, B.M. Patil, S. K. Sadawarte, A.R. Sawate, R.B. Kshirsagar and A.M. Swami','95 Development and Process Standardisation of Millet Based Instant Appe Mix and its Quality Evaluation Wandhekar S. S. 844.pdf','',1,'The present investigation attempts have been made to formulate the millet based instant appe mix and its quality evaluation. Appe is famous fermented breakfast food product of south India. Appe batter preparation includes the soaking, grinding and fermentation process. Preparation of appe batter is very lengthy and time consuming process. So the major challenge is to provide convenience food product to consumers having the good nutritional and health benefits. The major contribution have been made to formulate instant appe mix powder by drying the prepared batter at 70Â°C in cabinet tray drier and its evaluation for the parameters such as, organoleptic characteristics, proximate composition, mineral analysis and shelf life study analysis. \r\nThe product was prepared by utilizing rice, black gram, finger millet and foxtail millet. On the basis of nutritional significance ingredients were selected. The formulation with 40g rice, 20g black gram, 20g finger millet and 20g foxtail millet wa','Quality, Millets, Orgenoleptic, Nutritional, Reonstitution, Shelf life. ','Ingredient composition for the preparation of millet based instant appe mix standardised based on organoleptic evaluation and it was rice 40g, black gram dal 20g, finger millet 20g and foxtail millet 20g. Prepared appe mix powder contains protein (12.04Â±0.15%), fat (1.46Â±0.01), carbohydrate (72.4 Â±0.01%), crude fibre (3.4Â±0.01%), ash (3.35Â±0.01%) and energy (350.92 Â±0.73 kcal). The product was found to be good source of mineral such as calcium (102.5Â±0.98mg), magnesium (104.1Â±0.98mg) and phosphorus (222.53Â±1.66mg). The shelf life of the prepared product was established up to 75 days at room temperature. This study has shown that finger millet and foxtail have good potential for use in convenience food product formulation with the objective to enhance nutritional quality to meet future demand.','-','Wandhekar, S.S., Patil, B.M., Sadawarte, S.K., Sawate, A.R., Kshirsagar, R.B. and Swami, A.M. (2021). Development and Process Standardisation of Millet Based Instant Appe Mix and its Quality Evaluation. Biological Forum â€“ An International Journal, 13(1'),(2795,'92','Studies on Preparation of Finger Millet Vermicelli and effect of Guar Gum on Chemical and Sensory Characteristics','A.M. Swami, S.K. Sadawarate, B.M. Patil, A.R Sawate., R.B. Kshirsagar and S.S. Wandhekar','96 Studies on Preparation of Finger Millet Vermicelli and effect of Guar Gum on Chemical and Sensory Characteristics Swami A. M. 843.pdf','',1,'Most of the consumers demand convenience food, ready to eat snacks or food which add to bulk and satisfy their appetite. The diet consumed by a vast majority of people is deficient in nutrients like proteins, minerals. Therefore, one of the great challenges is to develop inexpensive foods that are nutritionally superior and at the same time highly acceptable to intended consumer.\r\nIn the present investigation, the technology was developed to standardize the process for preparation of finger millet fortified vermicelli incorporated with guar gum. Vermicelli is an extruded product commercially prepared using refined whole wheat flour. From previous years, vermicelli has been prepared from refined wheat flour which is high in gluten, which causes gluten intolerance. To overcome this problem of gluten intolerance, the utilization of finger millet in vermicelli will help to solve such a problem. Regarding the health benefits of finger millet, formulated vermicelli will be a good source of c','Finger millet fortification, vermicelli, Guar gum, chemical composition, sensory properties.','From the present investigation it was concluded that finger millet fortified vermicelli prepared with incorporation of guar gum had good nutritional and sensory quality attributes. It was also concluded that sample TG3 got highest score for overall acceptability and it was taken for further analysis. ','-','Swami, A.M., Sadawarate, S.K., Patil, B.M., Sawate, A.R., Kshirsagar, R.B and Wandhekar, S.S. (2021). Studies on Preparation of Finger Millet Vermicelli and effect of Guar Gum on Chemical and Sensory Characteristics. Biological Forum â€“ An Internationa'),(2796,'92','Aliyar Series – A New Series for Exploration in Pollachi Taluk, Coimbatore Dt., Tamil Nadu','C. Sudhalakshmi and R. Kumaraperumal','97 Aliyar Series – A New Series for Exploration in Pollachi Taluk, Coimbatore Dt., Tamil Nadu C. Sudhalakshmi 849.pdf','',1,'Soil series is the fundamental unit of soil classification. Achieving potential yields of crops relies on the native soil fertility status of the land which is tailored through appropriate crop management options developed for the soil series and cannot be generalized across pedons. Identification of new soil series and developing series specific management strategies is an essential pre requisite of precision agriculture. Three profiles were explored at Coconut Research Station, Aliyarnagar, the morphological and physico-chemical properties were assessed and correlated with the related soil series. Since the profiles at Aliyarnagar were diagnostically different from the already designated red calcareous soil series viz., Tulukkanur, Palladam and Palathurai series in attributes like depth, soil colour, texture, land use and vegetation, a new soil series viz., Aliyar (Alr) series was denominated. Crop management options viz., crop selection, irrigation and nutrient management can be mod','Aliyar, Palathurai, Palladam, Soil series, Tulukkanur','During detailed soil survey, a new soils series was identified at Coconut Research Station, Aliyarnagar called Aliyar (Alr) Series which is diagnostically different from that of the already existing red calcareous soil series viz., Palladam series, Palathurai series and Tulukkanur series in attributes like soil colour, depth, texture and land use. The depth of the denominated soil series is 150+cm with strong to violent effervescence in the horizons when tested with dilute Hydrochloric acid indicating that it is intensely calcareous. Coconut, groundnut, cocoa, nutmeg and vegetables are the predominant crops of the series because of the sandy texture of the soil. The new series warrants specific management practices for achieving higher productivity in crops. The information will help the officials of the Soil Survey and Land Use Organization, Government of Tamil Nadu for further follow up during survey and for undertaking appropriate land use planning. ','-','Sudhalakshmi, C. and Kumaraperumal, R. (2021). Aliyar Series – A New Series for Exploration in Pollachi Taluk, Coimbatore Dt., Tamil Nadu. Biological Forum â€“ An International Journal, 13(1): 684-689.'),(2797,'99','Finite Element and Equivalent Frame Analysis of Masonry FaÃ§ade; Having an Arched Opening','Anish Lakhera, Ajay Kumar Jain and Deb Dutta Ghosh','14 Finite Element and Equivalent Frame Analysis of Masonry FaÃ§ade_ Having an Arched Opening Anish Lakhera 3542.pdf','',1,'','','','',''),(2798,'99','Structural Strength of Expanded Clay Basalt Fiber Concrete Exposed to Salty Environment','P.C. Chiadighikaobi, H.A.A.Alaraza, and S. Abdo','15 Structural Strength of Expanded Clay Basalt Fiber Concrete Exposed to Salty Environment P.C.pdf','',1,'','','','',''),(2799,'99','Detection of COVID-19 from C-X-Ray Scans Empowered by Machine Learning','Muhammad Asif, Muhammad Ibrar, Shahbaz Ahmad, Muhammad Arslan Farooq, Hamid Ullah, Muhammad Kashif Abbasi and Zeshan Afzal','16 Detection of COVID-19 from C-X-Ray Scans Empowered by Machine Learning Mubashir Ali 3601.pdf','',1,'','','','',''),(2800,'92','Application of Nanoparticles and Nanotools in Pharmaceutics and Medicine','Gurneet Kaur, Shrestha Banerjee, Akshit Kalia and Evangeline Christina*','98 Application of Nanoparticles and Nanotools in Pharmaceutics and Medicine Gurneet Kaur.pdf','',1,'The advancements in the field of nanotechnology has significantly contributed in the evolution of its associating fields that consists of synthesis and applications of nanoparticles in field of medicine and pharmaceutics. Nanoparticles have size that ranges from 0.2 to 100 nm also they have increased surface to volume ratio. Additionally, the biological, physical and chemical properties of nanoparticles can be altered in accordance with their applications. Different types of nanoparticles exhibit a broad array of applications in various fields of pharmaceutics and medicine including tissue engineering, cancer treatment and diagnosis, drug delivery, nanorobots, biosensors, biomolecules detection, regenerative medicine and as antimicrobial agents. Nanotechnology provides intelligent devices, materials and systems for better pharmaceutical applications also it delivers the opportunity to improvise medical devices and materials that help in creating new nanotools when existing and more con','Nanotools, Magnetic resonance imaging, Nanoparticles, Drug delivery systems, Cellulose nanocrystals, Personalized medicine, Biological labelling and detection, Cancer treatment and diagnosis','Nanoparticles present a very attractive platform for a wide variety of biological applications. The additional and core structures of these systems can be designed for individual and diverse systems, including biomolecular recognition, medical delivery, biosensing, and bioimaging. Silver nanoparticles have played significant role in the domain of nanomedicine and nanotechnology. Magnetic nanoparticles have the potential to be used as agents for magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) and heating mediators for cancer thermotherapy (hyperthermia). It is evident from this review that the use of nanotechnology in drug delivery and medicine has opened up new avenues and opened many doors to the provision of customized and safe treatment options. Cancer treatment and / AIDS, non-invasive imaging and pharmaceutical delivery have all continued with the use of nanotechnology. Finally, with the use of cellular sizes and surface materials, researchers are able to deliver long-term drugs in extraordinary','-','Kaur, G., Banerjee, S., Kalia A. and Christina, E. (2021). Application of Nanoparticles and Nanotools in Pharmaceutics and Medicine. Biological Forum â€“ An International Journal, 13(1): 690-702.'),(2801,'92','Marker Assisted Selection for Development of Drought Resistant Crops','Gojjepalli Rajitha, Nilesh Talekar, P. Sri Sai Chaitanya, V. Sruthi and D.V. Sravani','99 Marker Assisted Selection for Development of Drought Resistant Crops RANJITHA REDDY 791.pdf','',1,'The most important environmental stress effecting field crops productivity is drought. In major crops the drought resistance is governed by genetic, genomic and molecular studies. These studies include identification of genes affecting drought resistance and their engineering in staple crops. Underlying drought resistance in crops elucidation of complex mechanisms enhance the drought resistance in new varieties development. The key tools of engineering and breeding drought resistance (DR) crops is to unreveal the complex mechanism of drought resistance through intensive and integrated studies in crop plants. DR is regulated by hundreds of genes, numerous small effect loci controlling physiological and morphological responses of drought. During the breeding process exploitation of information related to traits position which are governing the agronomical importance and linked molecular markers can be achieved by molecular assisted selection (MAS). Among the traits success of MAS depends','QTL, Molecular Markers, Marker assisted selection, Drought Resistant Crops.','To study genetic and molecular basis of DR various approaches like engineering, breeding of DR crops are integrated. For developing multiple stress resistance plants gene pyramiding with number of relevant traits is required for breeding of these crops though the QTL have been identified by this method only some are successful due to environment change in field conditions or multiple stresses the use of molecular markers in both public and private maize breeding programmes increasing day by day with profound use of MARS in private sector. The exponential growth of genetic information generated challenge to MAS to integrate this information into specific biological contest and convert it into knowledge. The genetic improvement of quantitative traits can be easily done by MARS in plants and animals. Until the complex traits are classified MAS is restricted to gene of moderate to large effect. As MAS is not only labour and cost effective but also less time consuming. Better understanding ','-','Rajitha, G., Talekar, N., Chaitanya, P. Sri Sai, Sruthi, V. and Sravani, D.V. (2021). Marker Assisted Selection for Development of Drought Resistant Crops. Biological Forum â€“ An International Journal, 13(1): 703-707.'),(2802,'92','Correlation and Path Coefficient Analysis in Groundnut (Arachis hypogaea L.)','Anamika Roy, Lal Ahamed M., J. Dayal Prasad Babu, Y. Amaravathi, K. Viswanath and B. Sreekanth','100 Correlation and Path Coefficient Analysis in Groundnut _Arachis hypogaea L._ Anamika Roy.pdf','',1,'Groundnut is an important oilseed crop of India. Identification of genotypes having very good yield contributing traits forms an important objective in groundnut to improve the kernel yield. The present experiment was conducted to know the association of various yield characters with kernel yield in 33 genotypes of groundnut collected from different parts of the country and world. Character association analysis indicated the significant and positive association of SCMR 60 DAS, harvest index, shelling percentage, 100 kernel weight and oil content with kernel yield per plant at both genotypic and phenotypic levels whereas SCMR 50 DAS recorded positive significant association only at genotypic level. Thus, kernel yield can be improved simultaneously by improving any of these characters. Path coefficient analysis revealed that harvest index, shelling percentage and 100 kernel weight exhibited strong positive correlation and high direct effects on kernel yield per plant both at genotypic a','Correlation, groundnut, path analysis, direct effects, indirect effects','Groundnut is an important oilseed crop of India. Identification of genotypes having very good yield contributing traits forms an important objective in groundnut to improve the kernel yield. The present experiment was conducted to know the association of various yield characters with kernel yield in 33 genotypes of groundnut collected from different parts of the country and world. Character association analysis indicated the significant and positive association of SCMR 60 DAS, harvest index, shelling percentage, 100 kernel weight and oil content with kernel yield per plant at both genotypic and phenotypic levels whereas SCMR 50 DAS recorded positive significant association only at genotypic level. Thus, kernel yield can be improved simultaneously by improving any of these characters. Path coefficient analysis revealed that harvest index, shelling percentage and 100 kernel weight exhibited strong positive correlation and high direct effects on kernel yield per plant both at genotypic a','-','Roy, A., Lal, A.M., Babu, J.D.P., Amaravathi, Y., Viswanath, K. and Sreekanth, B. (2021). Correlation and Path Coefficient Analysis in Groundnut (Arachis hypogaea L.). Biological Forum â€“ An International Journal, 13(1): 708-712.'),(2803,'92','Study of Water Table Behavior by Using Recharge Unit in Babina Block, Bundelkhand Region, Central India\r\n','K.N. Singh, B. Pati and A. Dalai','101 Study of Water Table Behavior by Using Recharge Unit in Babina Block, K. N. Singh 839.pdf','',1,'The study was undertaken in Babina block of Bundelkhand region, Central India to investigate the water table behavior in treated (Recharge unit) and control dug well during monsoon season because Bundelkhand region is a hub of drought due to erratic rainfall, undulated topography and hard rock terrains. Due to lack of interventions and rugged topography, most of the part of rainfall converts into runoff and meet to the river. In this way, a recharge unit with recharge filter was constructed for collecting the water into the wells which supports to increase the water level in the wells. Artificial recharge is one technique used to manage water resources and is being promoted as a significant solution to water scarcity in arid and semi-arid regions. Artificial recharge to the aquifer is the process of draining the rain water or surface water into the aquifer by dug wells and recharge (soak) pits to revitalize the wells. Artificial recharge is the process by which the ground water is augm','Rainfall, shallow dug well, well recharge unit, water table and measuring device.','This study concluded that artificial groundwater recharge technique with WRU was found satisfactory and sustainable where annual rainfall is up to 1100 mm. In semi-arid areas, especially in Bundelkhand region fluctuation in water table behavior can be expressed in quantitative description by adopting water table fluctuation method. Water table fluctuation (WTF) method is a well accepted and convenient technique for estimating groundwater recharge in hard-rock regions (Sharda et al., 2006; Dewandel et al., 2010; Glendenning and Vervoort 2010; Garg and Wani, 2012; Singh et al., 2014). Adoptive method for groundwater recharge is also most effective in such area where slope is higher and soil depth is less. Water level in the wells was increased after implementing WRU and the level which was increased recorded as 12.14 percent.','-','Singh, K.N., Patil, B. and Dalai, A. (2021). Study of Water Table Behavior by Using Recharge Unit in Babina Block, Bundelkhand Region, Central India. Biological Forum â€“ An International Journal, 13(1): 713-720.'),(2804,'99','Verify the Wireless Power Transmission in Space using Satellite to Satellite System','A. Baraskar, H. Chen, Y. Yoshimura, S. Nagasaki and T. Hanada','17 Verify the Wireless Power Transmission in Space using Satellite to Satellite System ADITYA BARASKAR 3546.pdf','',1,'','','','',''),(2805,'99','Genetic Algorithm Optimization of sliding Mode Controller Parameters for Robot Manipulator','K. Saidi, A. BoumÃ©diÃ¨ne and D. Boubekeur','18 Genetic Algorithm Optimization of sliding Mode Controller Parameters for Robot Manipulator K.pdf','',1,'','','','',''),(2806,'92','Morphology of Shoulder Girdle in Japanese Quail (Coturnix coturnix japonica)','Iniyah K., Jayachitra S. and Kumaravel, A.','102 Morphology of Shoulder Girdle in Japanese Quail _Coturnix coturnix japonica_ Iniyah K 835.pdf','',1,'The shoulder girdle of Japanese quail was made up of shoulder blade or scapula, coracoid and collar bone or clavicle. All the three bones of the shoulder girdle were very thin, plate like and extremely lightweight in nature. The scapula was a long rib like bone located parallel to the vertebral column. The coracoid was strong, thick and directed downwards and backwards with medially directed hook like projection. The clavicle was a thin curved plate of bone directed forwards, downwards and inwards to join the clavicle of opposite side. The present study was conducted to reveal the anatomical structure of shoulder girdle in Japanese quail.','Shoulder girdle, Scapula, Clavicle, Coracoid','The shoulder girdle of Japanese quail was made up of shoulder blade or scapula, coracoid and collar bone or clavicle. All the three bones of the shoulder girdle were very thin, plate like and extremely lightweight in nature. The scapula was a long rib like bone located parallel to the vertebral column. The coracoid was strong, thick and directed downwards and backwards with medially directed hook like projection. The clavicle was a thin curved plate of bone directed forwards, downwards and inwards to join the clavicle of opposite side. The present study was conducted to reveal the anatomical structure of shoulder girdle in Japanese quail.','-','Iniyah K., Jayachitra S. and Kumaravel, A. (2021). Morphology of Shoulder Girdle in Japanese Quail (Coturnix coturnix japonica). Biological Forum â€“ An International Journal, 13(1): 721-722.'),(2807,'92','To Study Profile Characteristics of Paddy and Cotton Growers in Karimnagar District of Telangana State','D. Navya and K. Venkataranganaika','103 To Study Profile Characteristics of Paddy and Cotton Growers in Karimnagar District of Telangana StateNavya D 809.pdf','',1,'The present study was conducted in Karimnagar district of Telangana state. Ex post facto research design was adopted in the present investigation. Karimnagar district was purposively selected for the study as having highest area and production under paddy and cotton crops compared to other districts in Telangana state. The study was conducted in 6 villages selected from 3 Mandals of Karimnagar district which included 20 farmers from each selected village thus making a sample of 120 farmers. The analysis of profile characteristics of overall paddy and cotton growers indicated that majority of (48.33%) belonged to old age category, 41.67% illiterate, medium family (50.00%), belonged to small land holdings (45.83 %), high income category (46.66%), medium (39.17%) social participation, majority of respondents (42.50%) belonged to low risk orientation, 35.00 per cent of the farmers come under low economic motivation category, 41.67% distributed in low innovation category, had medium level ','Farmers, profile characteristics, paddy and cotton','Profile characteristics of overall paddy and cotton growers indicated that majority of (48.33%) belonged to old age category, 41.67% illiterate, medium family (50.00%), belonged to small land holdings (45.83 %),high income category (46.66%),medium (39.17%) social participation, majority of respondents (42.50%) belonged to low risk orientation,35.00 per cent of the farmers come under low economic motivation category,41.67%distributed in low innovation category,had medium level (44.17%) of mass media participation, and 54.17% had medium extension contact.','-','Navya, D. and Venkataranganaika, K. (2021). To Study Profile Characteristics of Paddy and Cotton Growers in Karimnagar District of Telangana State. Biological Forum â€“ An International Journal, 13(1): 723-727.'),(2808,'99','Seroprevalence of Mycoplasma gallisepticum Amongst Commercial Layers in District Peshawar, Khyber Pakhtunkhwa Pakistan','Rasool Bayan, Javed Ahmed Ujjan, Asma Noureen, Muhammad Noman, Muhammad Inamullah Malik, Saqib Ali Rustam, Ghulam Jillani, Uzma Ashraf and Ikram Ul Haq','19 Seroprevalence of Mycoplasma gallisepticum Amongst Commercial Layers in District Peshawar, Khyber Pakhtunkhwa Pakistan Rasool Bayan-3602.pdf','',1,'','','','',''),(2809,'98','Oligofurostanosides-Furostanol Saponins from Agave vera-cruz Mill.\r\n\r\n','N.K. Thakur','8 Oligofurostanosides-Furostanol Saponins from Agave vera-cruz Mill. Dr N.K. THAKUR 1283.pdf','',1,'','','','',''),(2811,'98','Role of Immunostimulants in Aquaculture: Suggestive Experimentation on the Immuno-Nitrogenous Effect of Dried Ginger (Zingiber officinale) and Teak Leaves (Tectona grandis) in Nile Tilapia (Oreochromis niloticus)','Ajay V.S.','9 Role of Immunostimulants in Aquaculture Suggestive Experimentation on the Immuno-Nitrogenous Effect of Dried Ginger _Zingiber officinale_ and Teak Leaves _Tectona grandis_ in Nile Tilapia _OreoAjay V S-revised.pdf','',1,'','','','',''),(2813,'81','Artificial Neural Network based Solar Radiation Estimation: A Case Study of\r\nIndian Cities','Amar Choudhary, Deependra Pandey and Saurabh Bhardwaj','38 Artificial Neural Network based Solar Radiation Estimation A Case Study of Indian Cities Amar Choudhary 2715.pdf','',1,'','','','',''),(2814,'81','A Review on the Dominant Factors Affecting Silt Erosion in Hydro Turbines','Pragyan Senapati and Harekrushna Sutar','39 A Review on the Dominant Factors Affecting Silt Erosion in Hydro Turbines P SENAPATI 2591.pdf','',1,'','','','',''),(2815,'81','Economic-Driven Model for Virtual Machine Allocation in Cloud Data Center','Avneesh Vashistha and Pushpneel Verma','40 Economic-Driven Model for Virtual Machine Allocation in Cloud Data Center Avneesh Vashistha 3054.pdf','',1,'','','','',''),(2816,'81','Comparative Analysis of Output Power of PV/Wind Hybrid Boost Converter\r\nSystem with PI, PI with Fuzzy, FLC and ANFIS based MPPT Techniques','M. Nagaiah and K. Chandra Sekhar','41 Comparative Analysis of Output Power of PVWind Hybrid Boost Converter System with PI, PI with Fuzzy, FLC and ANFIS based MPPT Techniques-2893-M.pdf','',1,'','','','',''),(2817,'81','Mutual Component Convolutional Siamese Network for Heterogeneous Iris\r\nRecognition','Jwad Ali Ridha and Jameelah Harbi Saud','42 Mutual Component Convolutional Siamese Network for Heterogeneous Iris Recognition-Jwad Ali Ridha.pdf','',1,'','','','',''),(2818,'81','Design of CC-3DOF-PD Controller for Load Frequency Control of Multi Area Multi Source System using TLBO Algorithm','Sunita Pahadasingh, Chitralekha Jena and Chinmoy Ku. Panigrahi','43 Design of CC-3DOF-PD Controller for Load Frequency Control of Multi Area Multi Source System Using TLBO Algorithm Sunita Pahadasingh 2771.pdf','',1,'','','','',''),(2819,'81','Deposition and characterization of thin Films on Titanium Substrate: Review','Ho S.M. and O.P. Oladijo','44 Deposition and characterization of thin Films on Titanium Substrate Review Soon Min Ho 2459.pdf','',1,'','','','',''),(2820,'81','Data Aggregation on Single & Multiple data sinks in Heterogeneous Wireless\r\nSensor Network using BATOC and MS- BATOC Protocol','Jitendra Bahadur Singh and R.C. Tripathi','45 Data Aggregation on Single & Multiple data sinks in Heterogeneous Wireless Sensor Network using BATOC and MS- BATOC Protocol Jitendra Bahadur Singh 2683.pdf','',1,'','','','',''),(2821,'81','Bearing Capacity of Sand Beds Reinforced with Bamboo Baskets','Piyush Jain, P.K. Jain and Rakesh Kumar','46 Bearing Capacity of Sand Beds Reinforced with Bamboo Baskets Piyush Jain 3095.pdf','',1,'','','','',''),(2822,'81','Development of Interactive Book of Basic Arabic Language for Jabatan Agama Islam Melaka (JAIM) School','S. S. Rahim, N. Mohd Hanafi, S. Parumo, N. N. Aâ€™bas, A. N. Che Pee, H. A. Sulaiman, M.H.L. Abdullah and M. H. Zakaria','47 Development of Interactive Book of Basic Arabic Language for Jabatan Agama Islam Melaka _JAIM_ School Sarni Suhaila Rahim 2908.pdf','',1,'','','','',''),(2823,'81','Exploration of Waste Categorization in Building Construction Activities in\r\nSouthwestern States, Nigeria','Tongo, S. O. , Oluwatayo, A. A. and Adeboye, B. A.','48 Exploration of Waste Categorization in Building Construction Activities in Southwestern States, Nigeria TONGO 2758.pdf','',1,'','','','',''),(2824,'81','Social Media Influencing Consumer Buying Behaviour','Sanjeev Bansal, Renu, Singh Manjit and Mahesh Kumar','49 Social Media Influencing Consumer Buying Behaviour SANJEEV BANSAL 970.pdf','',1,'','','','',''),(2825,'81','Investigation of Mechanical Properties of Chopped Strand E-glass Fiber and Basalt Fiber Reinforcement with Epoxy Resin with and without Addition of Crab Shell Powder','V. Chandrakala and B. V. Ramana Murty','50 Investigation of Mechanical Properties of Chopped Strand E-glass Fiber and Basalt Fiber Reinforcement with Epoxy Resin with and without Addition of Crab Shell Powder V.pdf','',1,'','','','',''),(2826,'81','Distributed Implementation of Efficient Symmetric Key Cryptic Algorithm of AES Algorithm using Multi Nodes','Shivlal Mewada, Sita Sharan Gautam and Pradeep Sharma','51 Distributed Implementation of Efficient Symmetric Key Cryptic Algorithm of AES Algorithm using Multi Nodes Shivlal Mewada 3097.pdf','',1,'','','','',''),(2827,'81','Online Railway Ticketing System: A Case Study of Kaduna to Abuja Branch of\r\nNigerian Railway Corporation','Abubakar Ahmad Musa, Ashiru Abdullahi, Bashir Salisu Abubakar and Sudeep Varshney','52 Online Railway Ticketing System A Case Study of Kaduna to Abuja Branch of Nigerian Railway Corporation Abubakar Ahmad Musa 2855.pdf','',1,'','','','',''),(2828,'81','Study the Effect of various Nanofluids in different Machining Process and\r\nMachining characteristics: A Review','Anamika Tiwari, Deepak Agarwal, Anurag Singh and Nitesh Dixit','53 Study the Effect of various Nanofluids in different Machining Process and Machining characteristics A Review Anamika Tiwari 2719.pdf','',1,'','','','',''),(2829,'81','Insult and Defamation through Information Technology: Indonesia Perspective','Rafika Nur, Dharmawati, Handar Subhandi Bakhtiar, Dirah Nurmila Siliwadi and Handina Sulastrina Bakhtiar','54 Insult and Defamation through Information Technology Indonesia Perspective Handar Subhandi Bakhtiar 2961.pdf','',1,'','','','',''),(2830,'81','Recent Trends in Hybrid Recommendation Systems in e-commerce Domain','P. V. Nagavardhan and B. Premamayudu','55 Recent Trends in Hybrid Recommendation Systems in e-commerce domain P V Nagavardhan 2688.pdf','',1,'','','','',''),(2831,'81','Nutritional Quality (Bioavailability) of Elk Meat in the Biogeochemical Zones of\r\nthe Sakha Republic (Yakutia)','Mikhail Nikolaevich Sidorov, Ekaterina Petrovna Tomashevskaya and Nikolay Vasilievich Vinokurov','56 Nutritional Quality _Bioavailability_ of Elk Meat in the Biogeochemical Zones of the Sakha Republic _Yakutia_ Mikhail Nikolaevich Sidorov 2872.pdf','',1,'','','','',''),(2832,'81','Wind Tunnel Experimental Study of Vehicular Emission Dispersion for Double\r\nStoried Inline and Staggered Building Configurations under Wake Interference\r\nFlow Regime','Chowdegowda H.C. and R.M. Mahalingegowda','57 Wind Tunnel Experimental Study of Vehicular Emission Dispersion for Double Storied Inline and Staggered Building Regime Chowdegowda H 2935.pdf','',1,'','','','',''),(2833,'81','Wind Tunnel Experimental Study of Vehicular Emission Dispersion for Double\r\nStoried Inline and Staggered Building Configurations under Wake Interference\r\nFlow Regime','Chowdegowda H.C. and R.M. Mahalingegowda','57 Wind Tunnel Experimental Study of Vehicular Emission Dispersion for Double Storied Inline and Staggered Building Regime Chowdegowda H 2935.pdf','',1,'','','','',''),(2834,'81','Performance Evaluation of Geopolymer Concrete as Green Construction Material','Pushpendra Singh Palash and Priyanka Dhurvey','58 Performance Evaluation of Geopolymer Concrete as Green Construction Material Pushpendra Singh Palash 3104.pdf','',1,'','','','',''),(2835,'81','Instructing Third-Year Chemistry Pedagogical Students to Practice Extracting\r\nEucalyptus Essential Oil by Approaching CDIO Teaching','Cao Cu Giac and Le Thi Thu Hiep','59 Instructing Third-Year Chemistry Pedagogical Students to Practice Extracting Eucalyptus Essential Oil by Approaching CDIO Teaching Cao Cu Giac 2914.pdf','',1,'','','','',''),(2836,'81','The Prospects for Sunflower Production and Improving its Adaptive Potential in the Central Black Earth Region','Ekaterina G. Kotlyarova, Sergey D. Litsukov, Alla I. Titovskaya and Alexander V. Shiryaev','60 The Prospects for Sunflower Production and Improving its Adaptive Potential in the Central Black Earth Region Ekaterina Kotlyarova 2725.pdf','',1,'','','','',''),(2837,'81','Smartphone App for Searching Legal Cases for Non-Law Students','Rizauddin Saian, Zeti Zuryani Mohd Zakuan, Haswira Nor Mohamad Hashim and Anida Mahmood','61 Smartphone App for Searching Legal Cases for Non-Law Students Rizauddin Saian 2999.pdf','',1,'','','','',''),(2838,'81','Evaluation of Geotechnical Properties and Microstructure Analysis Lime Blended Black Cotton Soil','Ravindra D. Nalawade, and Pradip D. Jadhao','62 Evaluation of Geotechnical Properties and Microstructure Analysis Lime Blended Black Cotton Soil Ravindra D Nalawade 2360.pdf','',1,'','','','',''),(2839,'81','Adoption Self-Service Technologies in Public Service','Kurniawan, Ridho Bramulya Ikhsan, Engkos Achmad Kuncoro, Hartiwi Prabowo2, Teguh Sriwidadi and Yuniarty','63 Adoption Self-Service Technologies in Public Service Kurniawan 2924.pdf','',1,'','','','',''),(2840,'81','The Functional Aspects and Potential of Fungi Based Î²-Glucan','Hendi Kuswendi, Eka Dwi Kusumawati and Gemilang Lara Utama','64 The Functional Aspects and Potential of Fungi Based ÃŸ-Glucan Hendi Kuswendi 2917.pdf','',1,'','','','',''),(2841,'81','Representation of Emerging Technologies: Postmodern Urban Dystopia in\r\nManjula Padmanabhanâ€™s Harvest','Surbhi Saraswat','65 Representation of Emerging Technologies Postmodern Urban Dystopia in Manjula Padmanabhanâ€™s Harvest Surbhi 3111.pdf','',1,'','','','',''),(2842,'81','Enterprise Architecture Development and Adoption of TOGAF ADM Iteration\r\nCycles','Mochammad Zuliansyah, Mohammad Ishak Desa and Sabrina Ahmad','66 Enterprise Architecture Development and Adoption of TOGAF ADM Iteration Cycles Mochammad Zuliansyah 2923.pdf','',1,'','','','',''),(2843,'81','Preprogrammed Pill Dispenser for Elderly Care in COVID-19 Pandemic','C. Suganthi Evangeline, X. Anitha Mary, V. Evelyn Brindha and N. Santhosh Kumar','67 Preprogrammed Pill Dispenser for Elderly Care in COVID-19 Pandemic C.pdf','',1,'','','','',''),(2844,'81','The Role of Environment Community in Handling the Wildlife Trade','Iwan Henri Kusnadi and M. Dian Hikmawan','68 The Role of Environment Community in Handling the Wildlife Trade -Iwan Henri Kusnadi 3105.pdf','',1,'','','','',''),(2845,'81','Domain and Schema Independent Question - Answering on Linked Data (QALD): First Order Logic-Based (FOL), Non â€“ SPARQL Knowledge Discovery on Lexical Ontologies','Kaneeka Vidanage, Noor Maizura Mohamad Noor, Rosmayati Mohemad and Zuriana Abu Bakar','69 Domain and Schema Independent Question - Answering on Linked Data Logic-Based (FOL), Non â€“ SPARQL Knowledge Di Kaneeka Vidanage 3002.pdf','',1,'','','','',''),(2846,'81','Bio-cementation of Sandy Soil at different Relative Density','A.S. Muhammed, K.A. Kassim, M.U. Zango, K. Ahmad, C.S. Chong and J. Makinda','70 Bio-cementation of Sandy Soil at different Relative Density Abubakar Sadiq Muhammed 2491.pdf','',1,'','','','',''),(2847,'81','Formulation of an Efficient Combinatorial Cellulase Cocktail by Comparative\r\nAnalysis of Gibson Assembly and NEBuilder HiFi DNA Assembly Modus\r\nOperandi','I.N. Sultan, S. Keawsompong, P. Kongsaeree and P. Parakulsuksatid','71 Formulation of an Efficient Combinatorial Cellulase Cocktail by Comparative Analysis of Gibson Assembly and NE Builder HiFi DNA Assembly Modus Operandi I.N.pdf','',1,'','','','',''),(2848,'81','A Study to Identify the Organizational Role Stress Factors as Perceived by the College of Sciences and Humanities Teachers','Zafrul Allam','72 A Study to Identify the Organizational Role Stress Factors as Perceived by the College of Sciences and Humanities Teachers Zafrul Allam 2915.pdf','',1,'','','','',''),(2849,'81','A New Approach for Unmanned Aerial Vehicle for Sterilizing Cities from Covid-19 Virus','Ahmed Refaat Ragab, Bahaa Saif AL Nasr Rabi and Moussa Ibrahim Moussa','73 A New Approach for Unmanned Aerial Vehicle for Sterilizing Cities from Covid-19 Virus Ahmed Refaat Ragab 2743.pdf','',1,'','','','',''),(2850,'81','Affective Commitment of Construction Engineers: Empirical Evidence from\r\nConstruction Industry','Yazan Alzubi, Jamal M. Assbeihat, Jamal Adwan and Ahmad B. Malkawi','74 Affective Commitment of Construction Engineers Empirical Evidence from Construction Industry Yazan Alzubi 3048.pdf','',1,'','','','',''),(2851,'81','Assessment of Irrigation Potential Utilization in Middle Narmada Basin of Central India using Multi-Satellite Remote Sensing Approach','Rakesh Tanty and Tanweer S. Desmukh','75 Assessment of Irrigation Potential Utilization in Middle Narmada Basin of Central India using Multi-Satellite Remote Sensing Approach 3161 Rakesh Tanty.pdf','',1,'','','','',''),(2852,'81','A Basic Framework for Benchmarking of Performance Indicator for Urban Public Transport System','Vijay Singh Solanki and P.K. Agrawal','76 A Basic Framework for Benchmarking of Performance Indicator for Urban Public Transport System-Vijay Singh Solanki.pdf','',1,'','','','',''),(2853,'81','Use of ZnO Nanoparticles in the Degradation of Rhodamine B dye in Wastewater to Save the Environment','Sunil Kumar, Ravi Kant, Sanjay Kumar, Seema Dabas and Vijay Kumar Sharma','77 Use of ZnO Nanoparticles in the Degradation of Rhodamine B dye in Wastewater to Save the Environment SUNIL KUMAR.pdf','',1,'','','','',''),(2854,'81','Effect of Exposure and Withdrawal of Cell Phone Radiations on Kidney of Mice','Harvinder Singh, Anuj Kumar Sawhney, Meenakshi Sharma, Bhagat Singh and Kailash Chandra Yadav','78 Effect of Exposure and Withdrawal of Cell Phone Radiations on Kidney of Mice-3413-Harvinder Singh.pdf','',1,'','','','',''),(2855,'92','Studies on Gene Action for Yield and its Components Traits in Rice (Oryza sativa L.) for Sodicity Tolerance','Raushan Lal, P. K. Singh and Priyanka Rajput ','104 Studies on Gene Action for Yield and its Components Traits in Rice Oryza sativa L. for Sodicity Tolerance Raushan Lal 787.pdf','',1,'The present investigation was based on evaluation of a line Ã— tester set of 60 hybrids (F1s) and their 20 parents along with two checks (Narendra Usar 2009 and IR 28) for thirteen characters. In general, PCV were higher than the GCV for all characters under sodic soil. Nine traits emerged as most important associates of grain yield per plant under sodic soil. The mean square due to lines representing additive effects and G.C.A. are significant for all characters. For grain yield per plant, lines NDRK 50057, Narendra Usar 2009, CSR 36, NDRK 50037, IRRI 123, NDRK 50036, NDRK 50045, NDRK 50055 and NDRK 50063 and testers, Jaya and Sarjoo 52 were identified as good general combiners in sodic soil for Grainyield per plant and several other important traits to emerge as valuable parents for hybridization programme for obtaining High yielding pure line/hybrid varieties. The most desirable crosses show showing high mean performance and high and significant heterosis of positive Nature one ','Heritability, path analysis, line Ã— tester, sodic soil','60crosses generated by crossing 20 lines with three testers during kharif 2014 and the hybrid along with parental lines and check varieties were evaluated during kharif 2015 and the Research Farm of department of genetics and plant breeding of N.D. University of Agricultural and Technology Narendra Nagar Kumarganj, Faizabad. Path analysis identified biological yield (Kumar & Verma 2015) as per plant harvest index and grains per panicle as most important and contributing traits are components and speculate fertility in general PCV where higher than GCV for all characters and sodic soil. SCA variances may higher than GCA variances (Dharwal et al., 2017) for all the characters in sodic soil indicating predominance of non additive gene action. There is variability (Basavaraja et al., 2013) in the estimate of heterobeltiosis and standard heterosis. In the positive and negative direction observed for grain yield per plant. \r\nIn case of disease and insect 9 parents and 4 crosses where found ','-','Lal, R., Singh, P.K. and Rajput, P. (2021). Studies on Gene Action for Yield and its Components Traits in Rice (Oryza sativa L.) for Sodicity Tolerance. Biological Forum â€“ An International Journal, 13(1): 728-731.'),(2856,'100','Minitablets: Recent Trends and Developments with an update on Research and Patents','Sagar, Rajesh Kumar, Mangesh Pradeep Kulkarni, P.B. Vandana, Sheetu Wadhwa, Gurvinder Singh \r\n and Arun Sharma\r\n','1 Minitablets Recent Trends and Developments with an update on Research and Patents Arun Sharma 868.pdf','',1,'History speaks that oral dosage forms have been the most preferred ones amongst all the age groups of people because of their cost-effectiveness and minimal efforts of administration. However, conventional compressed tablets and capsules are associated with certain limitations associated to their varying plasma drug concentration, requirement of multiple dosing and difficulty in swallowing. Pharmaceutical Mini-tablets (MTs), seem to circumvent the above-mentioned limitation and can facilitate oral administration in pediatric and geriatric patients with minimal swallowing difficulty which can be attributed to their small diameter â‰¤4 mm. By reducing the fluctuations in drug release profile, MTs scan deliver the therapeutic agent efficiently with desired release pattern. The current paper is aimed to highlight the comparison of MTs with pellets, formulation and manufacturing techniques for MTs, their evaluation parameters, commercially available products, patents data on MTs, and a comp','Mini-tablets, oral dosage form, pediatrics, solid dosage form, floating dosage forms ','If we compare MTs with conventional compressed tablets or single unit dosage forms, the MTs provide us several benefits which make them better alternative for pellets and granules. Moreover, MTs provide the benefits of combination therapy that is difficult to acquire through conventional solid dosage form. MTs have high mechanical strength and low porosity, it can be easily compressed into large size tablets or can be filled inside the capsule. Additionally, MTs increase the patient compliance, enhance the localized effect of the selected drug and avoid the dose dumping. MTs are most beneficial to the drug that are absorbed from small intestine, because they can easily pass-through the duodenum independent of gastric emptying and intestinal motility. As discussed in this review, MTs can be employed as a promising drug delivery system for pediatric as well as for geriatric patients. Recent novel work complied in the present paper will further provide a vivacious information platform to ','-','Sagar, Kumar, R., Kulkarni, M.P., Vandana, P.B., Wadhwa, S., Singh, G. and Sharma, A. (2021). Minitablets: Recent Trends and Developments with an update on Research and Patents. Biological Forum â€“ An International Journal, 13(2): 01-09.'),(2857,'100','In vitro and in vivo Evaluation of Chemical Fungicides against Sclerotium rolfsii causing Collar Rot of Chickpea','Bana Sravani and Ram Chandra','2 In vitro and in vivo Evaluation of Chemical Fungicides against Sclerotium rolfsii causing Collar Rot of Chickpea BANA SRAVANI 813.pdf','',1,'Collar rot of chickpea is well known disease in India with 2-5% of losses every year which may even reach up to 60% under severe conditions. Several chemical fungicides are widely available for controlling this disease and many chemicals have developed resistance against the disease. This study aims to cut down the cost of cultivation occurring due to use of non-effective chemicals and to provide hike in farmerâ€™s income. An experiment was conducted in laboratory and Agriculture Farm, BHU, Varanasi to assess the efficacy of some new fungicides viz. Tebuconazole (Folicur 250EC), Azoxystrobin (Onestar 23%SC), Flusilazole (Cursor 40%EC), Thiophanate Methyl + Kasugamycin (Kasu 44.8% + 2.6%) and Thiophanate Methyl (Roko 70%WP) against Sclerotiumrolfsii. These fungicides were prepared at two different concentrations viz. 100 and 300 ppm to evaluate their toxicity. Irrespective of the concentration, Flusilazole and Tebuconazole significantly inhibited the mycelial growth under in vitro con','chemicals, fungicides, collar rot, chickpea, Sclerotium rolfsii','All the tested fungicides were found to be more or less effective against the pathogen at 100 and 300 ppm concentrations under in vitro conditions. Complete inhibition of pathogen was found when treated with Flusilazole and Tebuconazole at all concentrations tested. Thiophanate Methyl + Kasugamycin have also reported about 91.29 and 94.37% at 100 and 300 ppm respectively. When Thiophanate Methyl was tested alone little decline in inhibition rate was noticed resulting in 80.74 at higher concentration. On the other hand, Azoxystrobin was reported to be least effective against pathogen.\r\nSame fungicides were tested under field conditions against pathogen. The results obtained were co-related to that of in vitro conditions. Thus, Tebuconazole and Flusilazole treated plants have resulted with less disease severity of about 12% with 100 ppm concentration and below 7.77% with 300 ppm concentration. So, final yield obtained was much higher in these plants with 29% higher yield than control res','-','Sravani, B. and Chandra, R. (2021). In vitro and in vivo Evaluation of Chemical Fungicides against Sclerotium rolfsii causing Collar Rot of Chickpea. Biological Forum â€“ An International Journal, 13(2): 10-16.'),(2858,'100','Standardization of Pomegranate (Punica granatum L.) Propagation through Cuttings','G. Siva Koteswara Rao*, I.A. Bisati1, Umar Iqubal, S.A. Bhat, S.A. Mir and F.U. Khan ','3 Standardization of Pomegranate _Punica granatum L. Propagation through Cuttings G Siva koteswara Rao 833.pdf','',1,'The study was conducted to know the effect plant growth hormones on rooting ability of pomegranate cuttings and this study was carried out in division of fruit science block at Sher-e-Kashmir University of Agricultural Sciences and Technology of Kashmir. This experiment comprised of five concentrations of IBA viz., 0, 2000, 3000, 4000, 5000 ppm and ten pomegranate varieties viz., Chawla, Nabha and Kandhari Kabuli, Ichakdana, Bhagwa, Arakta, Muskat, Mridula, P- 23 and Jodhpur Red in a randomized complete block design with five replications. The results revealed that different concentrations of IBA and varieties showed significant effect on rooting and other root growth parameters. The maximum percentage of rooting was observed when cuttings treated with 5000 ppm IBA in all the varieties, however the variety of Chawla (62.24%) recorded maximum rooting percentage than other varieties. In case of varietal performance the variety Chawla, Nabha and Kandhari Kabuli showed significant results','Pomegranate, Propagation, IBA, Root number and Root length','Based on the findings, we can conclude that with increase in IBA concentration, there will be increase in the rotting of hard wood cuttings and the rooting ability will be also depend on the varieties. From this experiment we can concluded that among the varieties Chawla, Nabha and Kandhari kabuli performed better in almost all root parameters followed by cvs. Ichakdana, Bhagwa, Arakta, Muskat, Mridula, P-23 and Jodhpur Red. The results showed that varieties Chawla, Nabha and Kandhari Kabuli were found to be the best suited for propagation under temperate conditions. Pre-treatments such as girdling and etiolation in combination with root promoters and their effect on rooting could be tried. Use of different types of bio fertilizers with different rooting hormones could be tried for the improving the rooting percentage in pomegranate cuttings.','-','Koteswara Rao, G. Siva, Bisati, I.A., Iqubal, U., Bhat, S.A., Mir, S.A. and Khan, F.U. (2021). Standardization of Pomegranate (Punica granatum L.) Propagation through Cuttings. Biological Forum â€“ An International Journal, 13(2): 17-23.'),(2859,'100','Studies on Physical Properties and Organoleptic Qualities of Jackfruit Seed Powder based Extruded Product','Thejas Gowda K.S., Sadananda G.K., Laxman Kukanoor, Kirankumar Gorabal, Kiran Nagajjanavar, Sumangala Koulagi6and Darshan M.B.','4 Studies on Physical Properties and Organoleptic Qualities of Jackfruit Seed Powder based Extruded Product THEJAS 785.pdf','',1,'Rapid urbanization has brought changes in occupation pattern, peopleâ€™s life style and family structure. Today, consumer demand is for much more than just safe and shelf stable food, they demand higher quality food with greater convenience. The aim of this study was to standardize the flour combination for the development of jackfruit seed powder extruded product that is similar to commercial kurkure, as it satisfies the function of convenience food, which is a non-traditional cereal-based food product that is becoming increasingly popular around the world for its nutritional benefits, palatability and convenience.. Product was prepared by extrusion cooking of maize grits, jackfruit seed powder and tapioca powder. The product was prepared at temperatures at barrel-1: 50Â°C, barrel-2: 75Â°C, barrel-3: 110Â°C temperatures and 12, 14 and 16 per cent of feed moisture content and stored in aluminium laminated polyethylene packages. The effect of extrusion was investigated in terms of expan','Extrusion, expansion ratio, bulk density, moisture content.','Among different levels of treatment combinations, flour combination (L1M2) of 75 per cent maize grits, 10 per cent jackfruit seed powder and 15 per cent tapioca flour preconditioned with 14 per cent feed moisture and extrusion at barrel-1:50 Â°C, barrel-2:75 Â°C, barrel-3:110 Â°C temperatures showed best results in all the physico-chemical and sensory quality. Thus jackfruit seed powder can also use for the production of extruded product.','-','Thejas Gowda K.S., Sadananda G.K., Laxman Kukanoor, Kirankumar Gorabal, Kiran Nagajjanavar, Sumangala Koulagi and Darshan M.B. (2021). Studies on Physical Properties and Organoleptic Qualities of Jackfruit Seed Powder based Extruded Product. Biological Fo'),(2860,'100','Impact of the Various Organic Manures Supplemented with Standard Package on Soil Properties for Mulberry Production in Chamarajanagar District under Southern Dry Zone of Karnataka','Mahesh D. S., Doreswamy C. , Ramakrishna Naika, Chikkalingaiah, Subbarayappa C. T. \r\nand Venkatesh M. ','5 Impact of the Various Organic Manures Supplemented with Standard Package on Soil Properties for Mulberry Production in Chamarajanagar District under Southern Dry Zone of KarnatakaDr. Mahesh, D. S. 847.pdf','',1,'Soil health is determined by a set of highly correlated and interdependent physical, chemical\r\nand biological properties. Organic matter is the soul of the fertility and productivity, without which the soil is\r\nlifeless. The cost of mulberry leaf production is increasing every year because of the requirement of high and\r\ncostly chemical inputs. Approximately 60% of the total cost of leaf production is accounted for the\r\nconsumption of costly chemical fertilizers and farm yard manure. These inputs are becoming costlier day by\r\nday due to escalating price and are also becoming scarce. Nitrogenous fertilizers are used excessively in many\r\ncrops in the country. Nitrogen (350 kg/ha/year) requirement for mulberry cultivation leads to increased cost\r\nof production. Further, the required type and quantum of fertilizer often may not be easily available to the\r\nsmall farmers. So, in the view of avoiding the application of single source of chemical fertilizers we have\r\napplied the different organ','Organic manures, Inorganic fertilizers, Soil properties, Mulberry growth and yield','Vermicompost used in the study in comparison to\r\nconventional organic manures supplemented with\r\nchemical fertilizers or standard package of practice,\r\nnormally possesses higher levels of plant-available\r\nnutrients, particularly nitrogen and phosphorus. We\r\nprobably be surprised at how dense vermicompost is,\r\nthanks to its impressive water retention capabilities. In\r\nsouthern dry zone areas of Karnataka with depleted â€“ or\r\ndepleting â€“ water sources and/or soil heavy in sand or\r\nclay, adding vermicompost and other organic manures\r\nto the soil will help keep the water in the soil and\r\nconserve that precious resource. Vermicompost and\r\nother organic manures can be a thriving microbial\r\ncommunity, full of beneficial fungi and bacteria that aid\r\nin soil health. Healthy soil is said to consist of around\r\n5% organic material, but in over-farmed soil, that\r\nnumber has fallen to 1%. Introducing vermicompost\r\nand other organic manures supplemented in this study\r\ncan help restore that balance','-','Mahesh D. S., Doreswamy C., Ramakrishna Naika, Chikkalingaiah, Subbarayappa C.T. and\r\nVenkatesh M. (2021). Effect of Different Organic Manures Supplemented with Standard Package of Practices on Properties\r\nof Soil in Relation to Mulberry Production in Cha'),(2861,'100','Performance of Tuberose Genotypes under North Bihar Agro Climatic Conditions','A.K. Singh, Arun Kumar, Sushil Kumar Singh and Rajeev Ranjan','6 Performance of Tuberose Genotypes under North Bihar Agro Climatic Conditions AK SINGH 794.pdf','',1,'Tuberose (Polianthes tuberosa L.) has been recognized as one of the most important flowers in the flower industry. The agro-climatic situation of north Bihar has a better future prospect for its commercial cultivation. The screening of suitable genotype has a key role for the successful cultivation as the floral and vegetative characters are greatly influenced by different climatic situations. To address the demand of growers, the present genotype evaluation experiment was carried out with seven tuberose genotypes to asses the vegetative as well as floral characters under north Bihar Agro-climatic conditions. The experiment was laid out in randomized block design (RBD) with three replications at the Hi-tech Horticultural Research Farm of Dr Rajendra Prasad central Agricultural University, Bihar, Pusa (Samastipur) Bihar during the crop periods of 2015-16 to 2017-18 in three consecutive years. The tuberose genotype, â€˜Bidhan Rajani H-1â€™ has reflected its better floral and other relat','Tuberose, genotypes, single types, double types, loose flowers, cut flowers, spike, rachis, florets, bulb and bulblets. ','The research findings on the basis three years experimentation and pooled data (2015-16, 2016-17 and 2017-18) reveal that the different genotypes of tuberose have the potential to influence the floral and bulb / bulblets characters of the plant. Among the seven single type genotypes evaluated, â€˜Bidhan Rajani H-1â€™ followed by â€˜Prajwal, â€˜Arka Nirantraâ€™ and â€˜Bidhan Rajani H-2â€™ are suitable for cultivation due to their floral qualities as well as shelf life potential over others genotypes under the Agro-climatic situations of North Bihar. It is obvious from the study that both the genotypes have very good economic potential and it would provide maximum net return to the growers/farmers of the State. Further, the performance of varieties of any crop differs from one region to another region. Hence, selection of genotype is an important criterion for successful cultivation of any crop.','-','Singh, A.K., Kumar, A., Singh, S.K. and Ranjan, R. (2021). Performance of Tuberose Genotypes under North Bihar Agro Climatic Conditions. Biological Forum â€“ An International Journal, 13(2): 39-42.'),(2862,'100','Review on Frontline Demonstration of KVK and its Effect on Yield, Economics, Income and Management Practices of Different Crops in India','Shesh Narain Singh, Manoj Kumar, M. P. Gautam and R. K. Doharey','7 Review on Frontline Demonstration of KVK and its Effect on Yield, Economics, Income and Management Practices of Different Crops in India Shesh Narain Singh 706.pdf','',1,'Field demonstration is the elderly concept of Front-Line Demonstration. FL Devolved by the Indian Council of Agriculture Research with the beginning of the Technology operation on Oilseed Crops during mid-eighties. Field demonstrations carry out close regulation of scientists of National Agriculture Research System recognized as frontline demonstrations because technologies are demonstrated in front of farmer by the scientists before being fed into the major extension method of the State Department of Agriculture. Adoption level of the beneficiaries were medium to high even as non-beneficiaries were found small level of adoption are enhanced production practice of mustard crop, proper training and extension strategies to be followed maximum adoption of mustard crop in the research area. Major limitations are to improve the spread of area explicit and maintainability upgrading advancements. Decentralize specialized and dynamic power to the locale level. Make a more compelling and moneta','Frontline Demonstration, KVK, Yield, economics, growth, management practices and India.','The farmer were convince for adopting the precise technologies like improve variety, seed treatment, seed inoculation with rhizobium biofertilizers, pre-emergence weed management and plant protection measures were undertaken in a proper way. Front line demonstration also helped in replacement of local unrecommended practices with improved recommended practices. Favorable benefit cost ratio is self explanatory of economic viability of the demonstration and convinced the farmers for adoption of improved technology of wheat production. The technology suitable for enhancing the productivity of wheat and calls for conduct of such demonstration under the transfer of technology programme by KVKs.','-','Singh, S.N., Kumar, M., Gautam, M. P. and Doharey, R. K. (2021). Review on Frontline Demonstration of KVK and its Effect on Yield, Economics, Income and Management Practices of Different Crops in India. Biological Forum â€“ An International Journal, 13(2'),(2863,'100','Impact of Elicitor Seed Treatment of Mustard Genotypes on Various Defense Related Compounds against Alternaria Blight of Indian Mustard (Brassica juncea)','Pravallikasree Rayanoothala*, Divya M., Sunita Mahapatra and Srikanta Das','8 Impact of Elicitor Seed Treatment of Mustard Genotypes on Various Defense Related Compounds against Alternaria Blight of Indian Mustard _Brassica juncea_ R. Pravallika Sree 822.pdf','',1,'Alternaria leaf blight being a major concern on mustard whose control largely depends on the application of chemical pesticides however it is not the long term solution due to environment concern and risk due to fungicide residues. Under these circumstances, Induced resistance is one of the most dominant mechanism in managing the disease by increasing the activity of various defense related enzymes and non-enzymatic antioxidants. Role of inducers viz. Benzothiadiazole (BTH), Salicyclic acid (SA), Jasmonic acid (JA) and Hydrogen peroxide (H2O2) at three different concentrations viz. low, medium and high concentrations, viz. BTH (0.25 mM, 0.75 mM, 1.5 Mm); H2O2 (1%, 2%, 3%); JA (1mM, 2.5 mM, 4 mM) & SA (0.5 mM, 1 mM, 2 mM) were evaluated on induction of resistance to manage Alternaria blight of mustard in three different varieties viz. resistant, moderately resistant and susceptible against the disease was studied in net house. Elicitor treatments exhibited maximum content of chlorophyll','Elicitors, biochemical changes, Indian mustard, pot experiment','The studies in this area may provide information concerning host-pathogen interaction which can be utilized for resistance breeding and thus desirable trait can be developed by incorporating resistance in promising but susceptible genotype of mustard.\r\n2) Study of factors responsible for triggering of defense genes through signal transduction which are stimulated by elicitors should be studied at gene level. \r\n3) There is need to search for various inducers responsible for inducting resistance should be studied through enzyme markers.\r\n4) The efficiency of various elicitors in field level should be assessed on various genotypes of the crop and there performance can be evaluated by using resistance markers.\r\n5) Effort should be made such that, elicitors should be commercialized by recommending as seed treatment in farmerâ€™s field which may become an alternative to chemical fungicides in management of few disease where fungicide resistance was established by pathogens is a major proble','-','Rayanoothala, P., Divya, M., Mahapatra, S. and Das, S. (2021). Impact of Elicitor Seed Treatment of Mustard Genotypes on Various Defense Related Compounds against Alternaria Blight of Indian Mustard (Brassica juncea). Biological Forum â€“ An Internationa'),(2864,'100','Influence of Sowing Dates and Zinc Levels on Growth and Yield of Summer Pearl Millet (Pennisetum glaucum L.)','Nihal Dwivedi, Umesha C. and M. R. Meshram ','9 Influence of Sowing Dates and Zinc Levels on Growth and Yiled of Summer Pearl Millet _Pennisetum glaucum L._ NIHAL DWIVEDI 792.pdf','',1,'A field investigation was conducted at Central Crop Research Farm, Department of Agronomy, SHUATS, Prayagraj, (U.P.) during Zaid-2020. The soil of test site was sandy top soil in surface, almost neutral in pH. The investigation was laid out in randomized block design with nine treatments consisted of Zinc viz., Z1 (15 kg ha-1), Z2 (20 kg ha-1), Z3 (25 kg ha-1) and sowing dates viz., D1 (Sowing on April 24), D2 (Sowing on May 02), D3 (Sowing on May 11) which were replicated thrice and effect was observed on summer Pearl Millet. The result shown significantly higher plant height (215.97 cm), Dry weight (110.87 g), Crop Growth Rate (13.81 g/m2/day), Leaf area (2442.07 cm2), Leaf area index (6.11), number of leaves plant-1 (15.9), number of Effective tillers/plant (3.60), Test weight (7.73 g), Grain yield (2.42 t/ha), Stover yield (7.62), Harvest index (24.10) was recorded with sowing date of May, 11 along with the application of 25 kg/ha Zinc.','Sowing dates, Zinc, Pearl Millet, Yield','Pearl millet is often planted during the Kharif season, but it may also be planted during the Zaid season because it uses less water than other cereal crops. Sowing Pearl millet in mid-May with a 25 kg/ha Zinc treatment can be more advantageous than sowing in late April or May with 15 kg/ha or 20 kg/ha Zinc in the Prayagraj area of Uttar Pradesh for a larger yield during the late Zaid season. As there has not been much research done on summer Pearl Millet and different regions have different soils properties and climatic conditions, research can further be continued to know the exact sowing date and zinc level of that region.','-','Dwivedi, N., C. Umesha and Meshram, M. R. (2021). Influence of Sowing Dates and Zinc Levels on Growth and Yield of Summer Pearl Millet (Pennisetum glaucum L.). Biological Forum â€“ An International Journal, 13(2): 58-61.'),(2865,'100','Biocontrol of Fusarium Wilt in Tomato: An Eco-friendly and Cost Effective Approach','Raina Bajpai, Basavaraj Teli, Md. Mahtab Rashid, Satyabrata Nanda,\r\nSudheer Kumar Yadav and Gagan Kumar','10 Biocontrol of Fusarium Wilt in Tomato An Eco-friendly and Cost Effective Approach GAGAN KUMAR 799.pdf','',1,'Tomato is the second most widely produced vegetable in the world. All through growth time or even after harvesting, tomatoes are prone to several diseases brought about through viruses, fungal pathogen, bacteria, and nematodes. Tomato wilt is a fungal disease, caused by Fusarium oxysporum f.sp. lycopersici, that limiting tomato output severely around the world. Several measures were offered to restrict the spread of Fusarium oxysporum f.sp. lycopersici but were difficult because of the ability of the fungus to stay long in the soil. A wide range of chemical pesticides currently available and the continuous use of these pesticides affect the food substance of tomatoes as well as their texture and the performance of soil in order to control all these vulnerabilities. Thus, this review focuses on the possible use of microbial pesticide potential along with mechanisms for the management of wilt disease in tomato. Additionally, different constraints in tomato production, symptoms produced b','Microbial pesticides, Bioagents, PGPR, ISR, Trichoderma, Pseudomonas, Glomus, Baccillus','For the management of Fusarium wilt disease in tomato, many synthetic chemical pesticides are in use. These pesticides are affecting our natural environment, while combating Fusarium wilt disease. To reduce the hazardous effect of pesticide and meet the food demand of increasing world population, researchers investigated and developed different alternative ways for management of diseases. One of them is the use of natural biocontrol agent which has been proved economic and ecological alternative method to manage different plant diseases in effective manner. Many investigations showed a potential role of biocontrol agent against plant diseases management. However, research and knowledge gap of plant microbe interactions, especially for the plant-biotic stress-biocontrol agents in rhizosphere region. Improvement in knowledge about rhizosphere ecology interactions and distribution of antagonistic and pathogenic microorganisms can help in enhancing the efficacy of bio-agents against plant ','-','Bajpai, R., Teli, B., Rashid, M.M., Nanda, S. Yadav, S.K. and Kumar, G. (2021). Biocontrol of Fusarium Wilt in Tomato: An Eco-friendly and Cost Effective Approach. Biological Forum â€“ An International Journal, 13(2): 62-69.'),(2866,'100','Effect of Foliar Application of Vasicine on Gas Exchange Parameters, Proline Content and SOD Activity in Tomato (Solanum lycopersicum L.)','Sivakumar Rathinavelu ','11 Effect of Foliar Application of Vasicine on Gas Exchange Parameters, Proline Content and SOD Activity in Tomato Solanum lycopersicum L. Sivakumar Rathinavelu 856.pdf','',1,'Vasicine is a new biostimulant extracted from Adhatoda plant has influence many physiological and biochemical processes in plant. Because of highly consumable vegetable, increased production of tomato without usage any chemical compounds is a big challenge in agriculture. It may be possible only by using plant extracts called as biostimulants evidenced with physiological approaches. The present study was conducted to assess the impact of vasicine on gas exchange parameters, proline content, SOD activity and fruit yield in tomato under pot culture condition. The vasicine treatments include soil application (4 kg acre-1), foliar application (2 mL litre-1), combined application (soil + foliar) and control. The highest photosynthetic rate of 34.24 Âµmol m-2 s-1 and transpiration rate of 19.18 mmol m-2 s-1 were registered by combined application of vasicine. Foliar application of vasicine showed least leaf temperature of 33.05ÂºC and control recorded highest (35.10ÂºC). Combined applica','Vasicine, tomato, photosynthetic rate, leaf temperature, proline, SOD, fruit yield ','The present study concluded that the combined application of vasicine in the form of vigo through soil (4 kg acre-1) and foliar spray (2 mL L-1) along with a recommended dose of fertilizers enhanced the photosynthetic rate, transpiration rate, proline content, SOD activity and decreased leaf temperature with increased fruit yield compared to control in tomato. In comparison, foliar application of vasicine @ 2 mL L-1 twice at 15 and 30 days after transplanting is on par vales with the combined application. Hence, combined/foliar application of vasicine may be a viable and effective technology to increase fruit yield in tomato with environment safe.','-','Sivakumar, R. (2021). Effect of Foliar Application of Vasicine on Gas Exchange Parameters, Proline Content and SOD Activity in Tomato (Solanum lycopersicum L.). Biological Forum â€“ An International Journal, 13(2): 70-77'),(2867,'100','A Systematic Review on Effects of Training on Adaptation and Improvement of Crop Production, Productivity, Crop Protection and Livestock Development','Shesh Narain Singh, M.P. Gautam, Manoj Kumar, S.P. Sonkar, Pardeep Kumar, L.C. Verma, D.P. Singh and P.K. Misra','12 A Systematic Review on Effects of Training on adaptation and Improvement of Crop Production, Productivity, Crop protection and Livestock development SHESH NARAYAN 707.pdf','',1,'Farmer training and effectiveness didn\'t have a contact on the size of animals undertaking. The significant limitation to the extension of the ranchers\' domesticated animals undertakings was the accessibility of assets to be able to deal with the animals. Those ranchers who have additional augmentation contact do will in general have improved specialized information and have likewise embraced compound weed control already. Nonetheless, T &V has not had any outcome on the nature of expansion contact. Since a significant goal of the T & V framework is to expand the nature of the augmentation proposal and to make expansion messages all the more widely known through the contact-rancher approach. More likely than not in light of the little size of domesticated animal undertakings which were not run as organizations, a lot of ranchers didn\'t see the requirement or the worth of record keeping. Major limitations of the tanning are respondent has low community participation., high dropout rate,','Training, Adaptation, Crop Production, Productivity, Protection and Livestock Development','Augmentation administration has a prevalent impact on rural efficiency than true instruction even though openness is low. The investigation achieved that instruction is important to the improvement of agrarian efficiency to such an extent that conventional schooling opens the brain of the rancher to information, non-formal instruction gives the rancher involved preparing and better techniques for cultivating and casual training keeps the rancher next to each other with changing advancements and musings and permits rancher to share experience acquired. It is proposed the public authority improve the nature of formal training, augmentation administrations and grown-up proficiency classes in the Municipality. Elements that affect efficiency like transportation, admittance to info and praise office to ranchers ought to be upgraded. Major benefits are summed into six significant advantages as per need: (I) expanded in work quality (ii) expanded in ranch items (iii) cost reserve funds (iv) t','-','Singh, S.N., Gautam, M.P., Kumar, M., Sonkar, S.P., Kumar, P., Verma, L.C., Singh, D.P. and Misra, P.K. (2021). A Systematic Review on Effects of Training on adaptation and Improvement of Crop Production, Productivity, Crop protection and Livestock deve'),(2868,'100','A Review on the Therapeutic Roles of Selected Thermophilic Secondary Metabolites ','Stephen Ameho and Evangeline Christina','13 A Review on the Therapeutic Roles of Selected Thermophilic Secondary Metabolites Stephen Ameho 738.pdf','',1,'Thermophiles are gaining immense attention due to the extensive roles of thermophilic secondary metabolites in therapeutics. Thermophiles have presented a new age of novel molecules as they are able to adjust their metabolic pathways to unfavorable physicochemical conditions. This has widened the scope of application of thermophilic secondary metabolites in industries including pharmaceutical industries, medicine, and other life-saving activities. A good understanding of the secondary metabolites and/or factors that bestow these characteristics on thermophiles can lead to the discovery of new drugs. Even though mesophilic and psychrophilic microorganisms have wide ranges of therapeutic applications, they are unable to optimize productivity due to their inability to withstand high-temperature conditions. Thermophilic microorganisms offer a convenient, stable, and cost-efficient means of increasing productivity. Over the decades, the exploitation of thermophiles has been hindered du','Bacteriocins, Colonization, Coprostanol, Diketopiperazines, Plasminogen and Thermolytes','Several research reports have demonstrated the role of microbial (thermophilic) secondary metabolites in the management of health conditions such as the conversion of cholesterol to coprostanol, drug delivery, detoxification, production of scaffolds materials for stem cell culture etc. despite most of the mechanisms and metabolic pathways of the microbes are not properly understood. Limited knowledge in this regard has restricted the exploitation of these secondary metabolites to their full potentials. Antimicrobial agents such as probiotics, antibiotics, drugs etc. produced by thermophilic microorganisms have greater industrial potential due to their thermostability. Therefore, further investigation into the features of thermophilic secondary metabolites is a prospective avenue for drug discovery and other medical remedies.','-','Ameho, S. and Christina, E. (2021). A Review on the Therapeutic Roles of Selected Thermophilic Secondary Metabolites. Biological Forum â€“ An International Journal, 13(2): 83-94.'),(2869,'100','Assessment of Genetic Parameters, Trait Association and Diversity Analysis in Indian Mustard [Brassica juncea (L.) Czern and Coss]','Santanu Nandi, Sanghamitra Rout, Bijaya Sur, Moumita Chakraborty, Lakshmi Hijam, Suvendu Kumar Roy and Archi Gupta','14 Assessment of Genetic Parameters, Trait Association and Diversity Analysis in Indian Mustard [Brassica juncea _L._ Czern and Coss] Sanghamitra Rout 871.pdf','',1,'The current study including twenty- seven genotypes was undertaken to assess the genetic parameters, correlation coefficient, path coefficient analysis and genetic divergence. Moderate heritability combined with high genetic advance was noticed for total aphid proliferation compared to initial, demonstrating the prevalence of additive gene effect. Analysis of variance revealed substantial amount of variability among the genotypes for all the traits, showed varied spectrum of variability between the genotypes. The 27 mustard genotypes were assembled into five clusters. Cluster II had the maximum number of genotypes. This predicted that the genotypes grouped within a particular cluster are more or less genetically similar to each other. Maximum inter-cluster divergence was amongthe cluster I and cluster IV. Genotypes belonging to these clusters wereconsidered as more divergent. Trait like primary branches per plant, seeds per siliqua and 1000 seed weight showed significant positive as','Brassica juncea, heritability, genetic advance, genetic diversity, correlation and path analysis','Consequently, it may be concluded that there is adequate genetic variability for most of the traits studied in the above genetic material and total aphid proliferation compared to initial aphid count showed maximum potential for effectiveness of selection. Because these traits showed high GCV as well as PCV, heritability and genetic advance as percentage of mean. This would help us design the selection methodology that can further be employedin the breeding programme to recoverseed yield in Indian mustard. The traits showing a significant positive correlation with the seed yield are primary branches per plant, seeds per siliqua and 1000 seed weight. These above said attributes could serve as marker traits for seed yield improvement in mustard. The high positive direct effect was showed by primary branches per plant indicating the proper relationship between trait and seed yield. Maximum inter-cluster D2 value was noted among the clusters V and III which signifies that crossing would be','-','Nandi, S. , Rout, S., Sur, B., Chakraborty, M., Hijam, L., Roy, S.K. and Gupta, A. (2021). Assessment of Genetic Parameters, Trait Association and Diversity Analysis in Indian Mustard [Brassica juncea (L.) Czern and Coss]. Biological Forum â€“ An Inter'),(2870,'100','Ergonomically Evaluating and Modifying Fodder Cutter by Increasing Number of Blades and Varying Throat Geometry','Jaya Sinha and Adarsh Kumar','15 Ergonomically Evaluating and Modifying Fodder Cutter by Increasing Number of Blades and Varying Throat Geometry Jaya Sinha 855.pdf','',1,'Chaff cutter is one of the agricultural equipment used to chop all kinds of green and dry fodder into small pieces to feed animals. Due to less cost and ease of operation, it is available in every household owning cattle. It is most common and widely available machines used twice a day to chopped the fodder. The operation on existing chaff cutters is physically demanding because of the high energy requirement and continuous adoption of awkward work postures. Size reduction operation is considered to be one of the most energy-intensive or energy inefficient operations. The force exerted while cutting the chaff in the static position pose work related musculoskeletal disorders in performing the activity. The power required to cut the fodder by existing chaff cutter was very high than power applied by the operator for cutting. Which leads to high physiological demand and more energy expenditures throughout the degree of rotation flywheel. Interventions or design modification for redu','Manual fodder cutter, Livestock, Ergonomics, India.','The existing manual chaff cutter was evaluated in terms of power required in cutting different types of fodder and power available by human for cutting. The experiment was conducted by varying number of blades on flywheel i.e., one, two, three and four and respectively reducing the throat area by full, half, one third and one fourth from throat area of existing chaff cutter.\r\nIt was observed that power required in cutting fodder reduces with increase in number of blade and reduction in throat area. The huge gap between power available and power required in cutting is minimum for four blade cutter and maximum for single blade cutter. The through output has no effect with increase in blade number but length of cut reduces with increase in number of blades. \r\nThe ergonomic assessment of operator were also done in terms of heart rate and energy expenditure. The energy expenditure for three blade was minimum and lie in â€œmoderate work loadâ€. Therefore, according to experiment three blade','-','Sinha, J. and Kumar, A. (2021). Ergonomically Evaluating and Modifying Fodder Cutter by Increasing Number of Blades and Varying Throat Geometry. Biological Forum â€“ An International Journal, 13(2): 110-119.'),(2871,'100','Impact of Water Management and Crop Establishment Methods on Growth and Qualitative Characters of Rice (Oryza sativa L.)','Kartikeya Choudhary, V.K. Srivastava, U.P. Singh, Anoop Kumar Devedee and Ashvin Kumar Meena','16 Impact of Water Management and Crop Establishment Methods on Growth and Qualitative Characters of Rice Oryza sativa L. Kartikeya Choudhary 884.pdf','',1,'Water conservation is an integral part of precision agriculture. In rice (Oryza sativa L.) producing countries, the looming water crisis necessitates the development of water-saving technologies. Therefore, a field experiment was conducted to study the effect of water management and crop establishment practices on growth and quality of rice during two consecutive kharif seasons of years 2018 and 2019, respectively. The experiment was laid out in split plot design with three water management practices in main plot viz. flooding throughout crop growth (5Â±2 cm), saturation maintenance upto PI and flooding (5Â±2 cm) after PI (Panicle initiation), alternate wetting and drying upto PI and flooding (5Â±2 cm) after PI and five establishment methods in sub plots viz. conventional transplanting, wet seeding on puddled soil (broadcasting), wet seeding on puddled soil (Drum seeder), dry seeding (Broadcasting) anddry seeding (Line sowing). The results reported that the higher growth parameters viz','Alternate wetting and drying, broadcasting, drum seeder, efficiency.','From the above overall study, it is recommended that to obtain higher growth attributes of rice should be grown by wet seeding on puddled soil by drum seeder with alternate wetting and drying upto PI and flooding (5Â±2 cm) after PI under ago-climatic conditions of Varanasi region of Eastern Uttar Pradesh. ','-','Choudhary, K., Srivastava, V.K., Singh, U. P., Devedee, A.K. and Meena, A.K. (2021). Impact of Water Management and Crop Establishment Methods on Growth and Qualitative Characters of Rice (Oryza sativa L.). Biological Forum â€“ An International Journal,'),(2872,'100','Socio-Economic Profile, Market Awareness, Profitability and Plant Protection Knowledge of Mango Growerin India: Case Study','Manoj Kumar, M.P. Gautam, R.K. Doharey, Shesh Narain Singh, Raj Bahadur and Subodh Kumar','17 Socio-Economic Profile, Market Awareness, Profitability and Plant Protection Knowledge of Mango Growerin India Case Study MP GAUTAM 708.pdf','',1,'Mango is the main product of India. It is developed in 2.51 million ha region and creation is around 18.43 million tons (Horticultural Statistics at a Glance 2015). Neighborhood information, investment and better focusing likewise specialist are basic building up a drawn-out obligation to mango post collect administration in India. It tends to be featured that the greater part of the cultivators fell in ignorant however information was found to have a critical relationship with finances. Exploration should be coordinated towards showing other significant social, monetary and preparing factors that have a significant job on information on cultivators. Preparing and fabricating mindfulness among ranchers about bug elements and pesticide utilization could lessen the number of splashes significant. This training would decrease the poisonous heap of pesticides in mango which will be eco-accommodating and less hurtful to wellbeing other than lessening considerable information cost. Major pro','Socio-Economic Profile, Market Awareness, Profitability, Plant Protection, Mango and India.',' This investigation accentuated that it was vital to instruct mango makers on viewpoints like bug the board, illnesses and trickle water system needs, showcasing and refreshing data on Government approaches. Additionally, guidelines, monetary assets and appropriations to improve ranchers\' presentation and decrease middle person mediation are critical. Likewise, the selection of proper gathering to promoting would assist with keeping up the nature of the ideal organic product, which would permit the maker to get better costs and high benefits while decreasing the misfortunes during the collection. Be that as it may, it likewise incorporates the formal and casual business connections between singular ranches. Foundation gives admittance to information and yield markets, admittance to rural administrations going from proceeding with training to counseling, just as including institutional courses of action, like the legitimate and financial frameworks. ','-','Kumar, M., Gautam, M.P., Doharey, R.K., Singh, S.N., Bahadur, R. and Kumar, S. (2021). Socio-Economic Profile, Market Awareness, Profitability and Plant Protection Knowledge of Mango Growerin India: Case Study. Biological Forum â€“ An International Jo'),(2873,'100','Estimation of Yield Loss Caused by Alcidodes porrectirostris in Walnut Growing Areas of Jammu Division (J &K)','Mushtaq Ahmad Guroo, Hafeez Ahmad, Rakesh Kumar Gupta, Mudasir Gani, Kamlesh Bali, Muzafar Mir and Sudhir Singh Jamwal','18 Estimation of Yield Loss Caused by Alcidodes porrectirostris in Walnut Growing Areas of Jammu Division J &K_ Mushtaq Ahmad Guroo 876.pdf','',1,'Walnut (Juglans regia L.) is an important rainfed nut fruit grown in few states of India, preferably in the Union Territory of Jammu and Kashmir. The latter has the ascendency in producing the cherished walnuts over the years. However, in last decade or so, it has been severely infested by walnut weevil, Alcidodes porrectirostris Marshall (Coleoptera: Curculionidae) particularly in Bhaderwah location of Jammu province of Jammu and Kashmir. This insect-pest destroys the kernel of walnut fruits completely prematurely leading to mammoth yield loss. Since, the information on yield loss due to A. porrectirostris in walnut in quantitative terms is very scarce. In the backdrop of this, we took this opportunity to estimate yield loss as a function of fruit infestation due to weevil larvae and the number of healthy fruits per healthy tree.\r\nIn order to quantify the approximate yield loss, an extensive survey was conducted during 2019-2020 in walnut growing areas of Jammu. The whole yield of eac','Walnut, Alcidodes porrectirostris, yield loss, kernel, survey, rainfed, infestation','Juglans regia is an important nut fruit crop with more than 90% production in the state/UT of Jammu and Kashmir. It is a valuable fruit crop in terms of its nutritional value, wood products and rural development. Of late, this fruit crop has been attacked by several insect- pests. Our results and observations show that the quantity of fruit loss due to A. porrectirostris has increased over recent decades. While quantifying the yield loss, we found that it has caused more harm in Bhaderwah area than the rest of places studied. Therefore, it is quite essential that necessary management practices may be employed at appropriate time so that we may be able to save this cherished fruit from weevil attack.','-','Guroo, M.A., Ahmad, H., Gupta, R.K., Gani, M., Bali, K., Mir, M. and Jamwal, S.S. (2021). Estimation of Yield Loss Caused by Alcidodes porrectirostris in Walnut Growing Areas of Jammu Division (J &K). Biological Forum â€“ An International Journal, 13(2'),(2875,'99','Use of Social Media and Study Habits: A Correctional Study of University Students','Muhammad Naqeeb ul Khalil Shaheen, Nazir Haider Shah, Sadaf Zamir Ahmed,\r\n Ghulam Nabi and Hajira Naqeeb','20 Use of Social Media and Study Habits A Correctional Study of University Students Dr.pdf','',1,'','','','',''),(2876,'99','Development and Validation of a Holistic Sustainable Solid Waste Management Model','Gul-E-Hina and Sajjad Haydar','21 Development and Validation of a Holistic Sustainable Solid Waste Management Model Gul-E-Hina 3595.pdf','',1,'','','','',''),(2878,'92','Comparative Ichthyo Diversity of Ramsar Wetland Sites, Himachal Pradesh, India',' Indu Sharma','105 Comparative Ichthyo Diversity of Ramsar Wetland Sites, Himachal Pradesh, India Dr. Indu Sharma 694.pdf','',1,'During present studies an attempt has been made to evaluate the fish diversity of the Ramsar wetland sites of Himachal Pradesh. 44 species belonging to 28 genera, 10 families and 05 orders have been recorded from the Pong & Renuka Wetland and no any fish could be recorded from the Chandertal Lake. The lake remains under snow cover (-40Â° C) for most of the time. Various threats and conservation measures in the wetlands of the International importance of the state have been discussed. As per IUCN Red data list, 80% fishes are least concerned, 11% threatened, 7% not evaluated and 2% are data deficient. ','Comparative Ichthyo Diversity, Ramsar Wetlands, H.P.','During present studies an attempt has been made to evaluate the fish diversity of the Ramsar wetland sites of Himachal Pradesh. 44 species belonging to 28 genera, 10 families and 05 orders have been recorded from the Pong & Renuka Wetland and no any fish could be recorded from the Chandertal Lake. The lake remains under snow cover (-40Â° C) for most of the time. Various threats and conservation measures in the wetlands of the International importance of the state have been discussed. As per IUCN Red data list, 80% fishes are least concerned, 11% threatened, 7% not evaluated and 2% are data deficient. ','-','Sharma, I. (2021). Comparative Ichthyo Diversity of Ramsar Wetland Sites, Himachal Pradesh, India. Biological Forum â€“ An International Journal, 13(2): 732-735.'),(2879,'100','Studies on North-West Himalayan Russulaceae','Shilpa Sood, Reeti Singh and Ramesh Chandra Upadhyay','19 Studies on North-West Himalayan Russulaceae SHILPA SOOD 894.pdf','',1,'North Western Himalayan forests are rich in macrofungal diversity, especially in ectomycorrhizal (ECM) fungi. In 2014 and 2015, a number of explorations were undertaken during rainy season to explore the ECM diversity. The morpho-taxonomy of thirteen samples of Russulaceae were briefly discussed. Four samples of Lactarius and nine samples of Russula were described morphologically and illustrated taxonomically. Detailed study on the spore morphology of the specimens was carried out using staining techniques and Scanning Electron Microscopy (SEM). Out of these Lactarius paradoxus, L. subpurpureus, Russula fellea, R. flavida and R. subfoetens have been reported for the first time from Himachal Pradesh.','Basidiomycetes, macrofungi, Russula, Lactarius, taxonomy.','North Western Himalayan forests are rich in macrofungal diversity, especially in ectomycorrhizal (ECM) fungi. In 2014 and 2015, a number of explorations were undertaken during rainy season to explore the ECM diversity. The morpho-taxonomy of thirteen samples of Russulaceae were briefly discussed. Four samples of Lactarius and nine samples of Russula were described morphologically and illustrated taxonomically. Detailed study on the spore morphology of the specimens was carried out using staining techniques and Scanning Electron Microscopy (SEM). Out of these Lactarius paradoxus, L. subpurpureus, Russula fellea, R. flavida and R. subfoetens have been reported for the first time from Himachal Pradesh.','-','Sood, S., Singh, R. and Upadhyay, R.C. (2021). Studies on North-West Himalayan Russulaceae. Biological Forum â€“ An International Journal, 13(2): 138-164.'),(2880,'100','Studies on Development and Quality Evaluation of Mixed Fruit Bar Fortified with Whey Protein Concentrate','R.N. Shaikh, B.S. Agarkar, B.M. Patil and R.B. Kshirsagar','20 Studies on Development and Quality Evaluation of Mixed Fruit Bar Fortified with Whey Protein Concentrate SHAIKH ROHINA 886.pdf','',1,'When choosing food snacks, consumers tend to select highly nutritious and natural product which is made from more nutritious fruits and fruit bar has all that qualities to fulfil the market demand.\r\nIn the present study, to standardize the protocol for preparation of fruit bar fortified with whey protein concentrate. From previous studies, various types of fruit bar have been prepared. Drying of pulp is the most vital steps in fruit bar preparation but due to excess drying loss in colour of natural fruit pulps and degradation of nutrients. Therefore to overcome these problems add whey protein concentrate which help to reduce the drying time because of its water binding capacity. Fruits are well-known for providing energy, vitamins, minerals, antioxidants, and fibre. Fruit puree is dehydrated into a sheet to make these fruit bars. Fruit bars can also be fortified with nutrients like concentrated protein sources to boost their nutritional value. Mango and guava pulp was blended in ratio','Fruit bar, mango, guava, whey protein concentrate (WPC), Chemical composition, sensory attribute.','From the above result it could be concluded that fruits are poor source of protein so due to the addition of whey protein concentrate increased the food value of prepared mixed fruit bar. Now a days consumers always looking for more natural snacks from fruits and fruit bar has all that nutrients quality, the organoleptic characteristics of mixed fruit bar fortified with whey protein concentrate viz., colour, flavor, taste, texture and overall acceptability. It can be finally concluded that mixed fruit bar fortified with 5 % whey protein concentrate received highest sensory score (i.e., 8.0) after control sample in case of all sensory attributes. The treatment (W2) with 60% mango pulp and 40% guava pulp noticed as best blending ratio,','-','Shaikh R.N., Agarkar B.S., Patil B.M. and Kshirsagar R.B. (2021). Studies on Development and Quality evaluation of Mixed Fruit Bar Fortified with Whey Protein Concentrate. Biological Forum â€“ An International Journal, 13(2): 165-170.'),(2881,'100','Effect of Neonicotinoid Acetamiprid and Imidacloprid Insecticides on Antioxidant Peroxidase Activity in Earthworm Eisenia fetida','Parveen Gill, Dharambir Singh, Bajrang Lal Sharma, R.K. Gupta, Tejpal Dahiya, Dommapati Sudhakar Rao, Deepika Lather and Naresh Kumar','21 Effect of Neonicotinoid Acetamiprid and Imidacloprid Insecticides on Antioxidant Peroxidase Activity in Earthworm Eisenia fetida Dr. Parveen Kumar 891.pdf','',1,'Peroxidase, an antioxidant enzyme, is important in eliminating excess reactive oxygen species from earthworm cells. Insecticides such as neonicotinoid acetamiprid and imidacloprid are becoming more popular by the day in order to increase crop yields. The major goal of this study is to see how different doses of imidacloprid and acetamiprid affect the antioxidant enzyme peroxidase activity in earthworms Eisenia fetida and maintaining the right environment for properly measuring the enzymatic activities estimation was extremely challenging because the enzymatic activity of earthworms varied rapidly. During the current experiment, three dosages of acetamiprid (0.145 Âµg, 0.165 Âµg, and 0.188 Âµg) and imidacloprid (0.134 Âµl, 0.195 Âµl, and 0.280 Âµl) were tested on direct exposure in vials with a diameter of 3mm and 8 cm length. After 48 hours of exposure to acetamiprid, peroxidase activity was 0.775 and 0.858Umg-1 protein at concentrations of 0.165 Âµg and 0.188 Âµg respectively, and 0.8','Acetamiprid, imidacloprid, neonicotinoid, insecticides, Eisenia fetida, POD','Pesticides have a greater impact on Eisenia fetida, and the study found that POD activities are completely reliant on pesticide concentrations and direct exposure time. The activities of POD enzyme after 24hr and 48hr exposure rose as acetamiprid and imidacloprid concentrations increased, indicating the need to limit pesticide use to protect soil invertebrate flora.','-','Gill, P., Singh, D. Sharma, B.L., Gupta, R.K., Dahiya, T., Rao, D.S., Lather, D. and Kumar, N. (2021). Effect of Neonicotinoid Acetamiprid and Imidacloprid Insecticides on Antioxidant Peroxidase Activity in Earthworm Eisenia fetida. Biological Forum '),(2882,'100','Effect of Moisture Content and Loading Rate on Grain Detachment and Rupture Force of Paddy','Prerana P. Jena, A.K. Goel, S.K. Swain, R.R. Pattnaik and D. Behera','22 Effect of Moisture Content and Loading Rate on Grain Detachment and Rupture Force of Paddy Prerana Priyadarsini Jena.pdf','',1,'Determination of grain detachment and rupture force must be performed before designing any threshing equipment. Such a study has been undertaken at College of Agricultural Engineering and Technology, OUAT, Bhubaneswar, India during Kharif 2019 and Rabi 2020. The grain detachment and rupture force of six varieties of paddy were determined at four levels of grain moisture content and three levels of loading rate by using Universal Testing Machine. The grain detachment force of single grain was measured for each variety at various grain moisture content at loading rate of 50,100 and 150 mm per min while the rupture force of each variety was determined at three loading rate of 10, 15 and 20 mm per min at same four levels of moisture content. It was observed that the grain detachment force was highest at higher moisture content of grain. This study showed that the detachment force increased with increase in moisture content whereas the rupture force decreased with increase in moisture conte','detachment force, rupture force, pedicel, paddy, moisture content, loading rate','The grain detachment force from the panicles and rupture force of single grain of six popular varieties of paddy in the state were determined at four levels of grain moisture content varying from 13.0 to 17.8%by using UTM. The force required to detach the grains from panicle was measured at three levels of loading rate at 50, 100 and 150 mm/min while the grain rupture force for each variety was undertaken at three levels of loading rate of 10, 15 and 20 mm/min at same four levels of moisture content. The following conclusions were drawn from this study.\r\nâ€¢ Grain detachment force decreased significantly with decrease in grain moisture content for all the six varieties namely Lalat, Pratibha, Birupa, Pratikshya, Sidhanta and Hasantaat all four levels of grain moisture content.\r\nâ€¢ The maximum detachment force(1.47N) of single grain obtained for Sidhanta variety at higher grain moisture content of 17.8% at lowest loading rate of 50mm/min, while the minimum force (0.63N) required for La','-','Jena, P.P., Goel, A.K., Swain, S.K., Pattnaik, R.R. and Behera, D. (2021). Effect of Moisture Content and Loading Rate on Grain Detachment and Rupture Force of Paddy. Biological Forum â€“ An International Journal, 13(2): 175-183.'),(2883,'100','Limnology of Coldwater in Lentic and Lotic Water Bodies and Fishery Status in the Streams of Himachal Pradesh, India','Indu Sharma','23 Limnology of Coldwater in Lentic and Lotic Water Bodies and Fishery Status in the Streams of Himachal Pradesh, India Indu Sharma.pdf','',1,'During present studies an attempt has been made to work out water quality parameters of the lotic and lentic water bodies. Further, fishery potential of the selected streams of Beas River has been studied and it is found that it is dominated by the Tor putitora (Hamilton, 1822) and Schizothorax richardsonii (Gray, 1832). They come under Endangered (EN) and Vulnerable (VU) category respectively. Both these fishes are indigenous and precious fishery of the state. It has been inferred that the limnological parameters for the growth, survival of hill stream fishes are more conducive in lotic water bodies than in lentic habitats. Various anthropogenic activities in the streams of the Beas Rivers have been discussed and threat to the survival of the hill stream fishes. Thus, it is suggested that sustainable measures should be undertaken to rejuvenate/ conservation of the streams.','Limnologocal, Indigenous, Lotic, Lentic, Potential.','During present studies an attempt has been made to work out water quality parameters of the lotic and lentic water bodies. Further, fishery potential of the selected streams of Beas River has been studied and it is found that it is dominated by the Tor putitora (Hamilton, 1822) and Schizothorax richardsonii (Gray, 1832). They come under Endangered (EN) and Vulnerable (VU) category respectively. Both these fishes are indigenous and precious fishery of the state. It has been inferred that the limnological parameters for the growth, survival of hill stream fishes are more conducive in lotic water bodies than in lentic habitats. Various anthropogenic activities in the streams of the Beas Rivers have been discussed and threat to the survival of the hill stream fishes. Thus, it is suggested that sustainable measures should be undertaken to rejuvenate/ conservation of the streams.','-','Sharma, I. (2021). Limnology of Coldwater in Lentic and Lotic Water Bodies and Fishery Status in the Streams of Himachal Pradesh, India. Biological Forum â€“ An International Journal, 13(2): 184-186.'),(2884,'100','Determining Combining Ability for Fruit Yield and its Component Traits in Bottle Gourd [Lagenaria siceraria (Mol.) Standl.]','Himalay R. Patel and D.R. Mehta','24 Determining Combining Ability for Fruit Yield and its Component Traits in Bottle Gourd [Lagenaria siceraria _Mol._ Standl.] Himalay Patel.pdf','',1,'The present experiment was carried out with nine diverse parents to develop thirty-six F1â€™s and F2â€™s by using half-diallel mating design to estimate the combining ability for fruit yield and its components in bottle gourd [Lagenaria siceraria (Mol.) Standl.]. The analysis of variance for combining ability in F1 and F2 generations revealed highly significant mean square differences for general and specific combining ability for the studied traits. Parent Santosh was found good general combiner for number of fruits per plant, fruit girth, fruit yield per plant and total soluble solids in both the generations. Likewise, parent Punjab Long was found good general combiner for fruit length, fruit girth and average fruit weight in both the generations. Pusa Naveen was good general combiner for number of nodes on main vine, vine length, number of fruits per plant and fruit length in F1 and F2 generations. Similarly, parent JBGL-43 was good general combiner for total soluble solids in both ','Combining ability, Half-diallel mating design, Yield, Bottle gourd ','The per se performance appeared to be a good indication of gca and sca effects for parents and crosses, respectively in both F1 and F2 generations. Hence, it could be utilized while selecting the parents and crosses for further breeding programme. The parents with high gca effects in F1 also showed more or less similar trend in F2 suggesting the feasibility of estimating gca effects from the data of F2 generation. Accordingly, Santosh, Punjab Long, JBGL-43, JBOGL-01-42 and Pusa Naveen offer the best possibilities of exploitation for the development of improved inbred lines with enhanced fruit yielding ability. It is suggested that population involving these lines in a multiple crossing \r\nprogramme may be developed for isolating desirable recombinants. On the other hand, the crosses, Arka Bahar x Santosh and Punjab Long x Santosh were found to be the best specific combiners for fruit yield per plant and also showed best per se performance in both the generations. This indicated that ge','-','Patel, H.R. and Mehta, D.R. (2021). Determining Combining Ability for Fruit Yield and its Component Traits in Bottle Gourd [Lagenaria siceraria (Mol.) Standl.]. Biological Forum â€“ An International Journal, 13(2): 187-200.'),(2885,'99','Antimicrobial, Antioxidant and Antidiabetic Potential of Suaeda fruticosa L.','Ishtiaq Ahmad, Hira Gul, Dr. Asma Noureen, Javed Ahmad Ujjan, Saba Manzoor, Wali Muhammad Achakzai, Shagufta Saddozai and Saleem Jan','22 Antimicrobial, Antioxidant and Antidiabetic Potential of Suaeda fruticosa L Ishtiaq Ahmad 3618.pdf','',1,'','','','',''),(2886,'99','Impact of N-fertilization on Onion Bulb Production of Different Genotypes through Onion-Set','Israr Ullah Khan, Muhammad Saleem Jilani, Muhammad Amjad Nadeem, Mehwish Kiran, Tehseen Ali Jilani and Husnain Saleem','23 Impact of N-fertilization on Onion Bulb Production of Different Genotypes through Onion-Set Tehseen Ali Jilani 3597.pdf','',1,'','','','',''),(2887,'99','Dynamic Influences of Urbanization, Economic Expansion and Primary Energy Consumption on Carbon Dioxide Emissions in Pakistan','Rafeeque A. Nizamani, Faheemullah Shaikh, Abdul Ghafoor Nizamani, Nayyar H. Mirjat and Laveet Kumar','24 Dynamic Influences of Urbanization, Economic Expansion and Primary Energy Consumption on Carbon Dioxide Emissions in Pakistan-Laveet Kumar.pdf','',1,'','','','',''),(2888,'100','Occurrence and Prevalence of Fusarium Wilt in Major Pigeonpea Growing Areas of North Eastern Karnataka','Bindhu, K.G., Yenjerappa, S.T., Ajithkumar, K., Gururaj Sunkad, Sreenivasa, A.G. \r\nand Mahadevaswamy','25 Occurrence and Prevalence of Fusarium Wilt in Major Pigeonpea Growing Areas of North Eastern Karnataka K.G. Bindhu 838.pdf','',1,'The wonder crop pigeonpea is renowned for its multipurpose uses. India alone covers more than 70% area (4.65 M ha) among all pigeonpea growing countries (FAOSTAT, 2015). The crop suffers from numerous pathogens, but fortunately, only a few of them cause huge losses (Kannaiyan et al., 1984) (mehtashv). Among the soil borne diseases Fusarium wilt causes considerable yield losses to the pigeonpea in India as well as in major pigeonpea growing areas of Karnataka especiallyNorth Eastern Karnataka. On that note survey was conducted during the three consecutive years 2017, 2018 and 2019 in the major pigeonpea growing districts of Raichur, Kalaburgi, Yadgir and Bidar districts to know the incidence of disease. During the year 2017-18 the highest Fusarium wilt incidence was noticed in Kalaburagi (21.1 %), followed by Raichur (16.67 %) and Yadgir district (7.7%). On contrary, lowest wilt incidence was observed in Bidar district (3.5%). While during 2018-19 the district mean severity among the di','Pigeonpea, Fusarium, Survey, Resistant, Susceptible','The survey conducted across the locations and seasons revealed the maximum Fusarium wilt incidence was recorded in Kalaburagi district followed by Raichur district whereas Bidar district has recorded the minimum wilt incidence. \r\nMonocropping has been practiced in the villages pertaining to Kalaburgi district also Fusarium wilt incidence is generally more in farmerâ€™s field with the local cultivars such as, Kari togari, Gulyal local and Kattibheeja as compared to improved cultivars. In addition cultivar Asha is considered to be a very good resistant source against Fusarium wilt across the four surveyed districts. Where as in some villages belonging to Bidar the intercropping of pigeonpea with other crops like sorghum, horsegram, blackgram etc., majority of the pigeonpea crop was grown under vertisoils compared to alfisols. The variations in the diseases incidence in different locations may be because of the impact of the environmental factors or variation in the resistance of the cult','-','Bindhu, K.G., Yenjerappa, S.T., Ajithkumar, K., Gururaj Sunkad, Sreenivasa, A.G. and Mahadevaswamy (2021). Occurrence and prevalence of Fusarium wilt in major growing areas of North Eastern Karnataka. Biological Forum â€“ An International Journal, 13(2):'),(2889,'100','A Review-Vermicomposting: An Effective option for Agriculture Waste Management','Santosh Korav, Anudeep B Malannavar and Lochan Sharma','26 A Review-Vermicomposting An effective option for Agriculture Waste Management Santosh Korav 901.pdf','',1,'Green revolution increases food production to satisfy consumption rate by adopting improved varieties, high fertiliser dose and irrigation etc. Crop production increases the food-grain as well as biological yield. Rice wheat and sugarcane contribute in high residue generation due to more crop residue generation on and creates difficulty in off-farm management. Due to their high C:N ratio mineralisation process slows down and sowing of crop on standing residue will affect germination and plant stand. Since farmers need quick land preparation for the next crop sowing, they will burn the crop residue, which creates environmental pollution, health hazards, loss of organic matter and loss of essential plant nutrients. Hence collection of crop residue and utilisation in same farm by production of compost is best alternative and eco-friendly method of residue management. Among different types of composting, Vermicompost is best method as it is an eco-biotechnological process to manage agricul','residue burning, pollution, vermicast, humus, beneficial soil microbes, growth promoters','Crop residue burning is major constraint in residue management, it will have effect on nutrient status in soil and plants, pollutes environment, health hazards and also increases soil temperature which will effect on soil beneficial microbial populations. Rice-wheat cropping system dominates in residue generation as compared to other cropping systems in India. Residue removal and transporting to other place for different purposes and residue incorporation needs heavy and costly machineries and is not economical to small and marginal farmers. Hence, the residue can be collected and utilised in farm by producing Vermicompost. It is cost effective, little skill requiring, easily manageable for agricultural, domestic and biodegradable wastes. It supplies high nutrient content mainly NPK, micronutrients and growth promoters, minerals etc. Compared to other compost (FYM, bacterial compost, kitchen compost), it can be applied directly on standing crop. After application of the compost, it rea','-','Korav, S., Malannavar, A.B. and Sharma, L. (2021). A Review-Vermicomposting: An effective option for Agriculture Waste Management. Biological Forum â€“ An International Journal, 13(2): 211-219.'),(2890,'100','A Study on Biology and Management of Spotted Pod Borer, Maruca vitrata (Geyer) in Legumes','T.R. Pandit and S.A. Dwivedi','27 A Study on Biology and Management of Spotted Pod Borer, Maruca vitrata _Geyer_ in Legumes S.A. Dwivedi 819.pdf','',1,'The spotted pod borer is a major biotic impediment to pulse growth, causing damage to economically valuable plant parts such as flower buds, flowers, and pods. Flower buds (highest) > open flowers > mature pods > immature pods had the highest abundance and degree of M. vitrata infection (lowest). As hosts, the larvae consume 39 different varieties of legume crops. The spotted pod borer\'s presence varied from crop to crop and season to season. In contrast, the peak incidence of larvae was observed during flowering and pod development in various pulse crops. Female moths lay flat scaly eggs on flowering flowers, seeds, roots, leaf axils, terminal shoots, and tender pods. The larval period ranged from 11 to 21 days, with a typical life cycle of 27 to 36 days depending on the host. The larval period ranged from 11 to 21 days, and the larvae were translucent with dark brown spots on each segment. The effectiveness of various organic insecticides against the spotted pod borer. On a variety o','Pulses, Spotted pod borer, Maruca vitrata, Pest, NSKE, Management','M. vitrata is becoming a possible danger to dwindling global pigeonpea and other legume supply, based on its recent distribution and emergence of resistance to certain chemical pesticides. As a result, M. vitrata became a condition, necessitates a great deal of treatment. More detailed, diverse, and up-to-date data on its biodiversity, diversity, migration patterns and other topics to better understand it and scan for the most effective management methods, pesticide resistance techniques, and off-season occurrence are needed. A more efficient and better management strategy will be the identification of more natural enemies of this pest and their alignment with cultural traditions and other biocontrol techniques, Sex pheromones and traps may also help to reduce the pest\'s population pressure. To fine-tune the pheromone-based regulation of M. vitrata species, further research into the components of this insect pest\'s sex pheromone in different geographical regions is also required. Crop ','-','Pandit, T.R. and Dwivedi, S. A. (2021). A Study on Biology and Management of Spotted Pod Borer, Maruca vitrata (Geyer) in Legumes. Biological Forum â€“ An International Journal, 13(2): 220-227.'),(2891,'100','Updated Snakes Check List and Extended Distribution of Five Species in the State of Telangana','Bharath Simha P. , Kummari Swamy, B. Naresh, L. Paramesh, B. Sadasivaiah and V. Vasudeva Rao','28 Updated Snakes Check List and Extended Distribution of Five Species in the State of Telangana Bharath Simha P 896.pdf','',1,'Present paper dealing with updated checklist of snakes of Telangana State, based on field observations, rescued snakes, road kills, opportunistic sightings and review of literature revealed that the Telangana State is home for 39 species of snakes belonging to 30 genera and seven families. Among the 39 species, 25 (64%) were non venomous, seven (18%) were venomous and seven (18%) were mildly venomous. Among the total occurrence of species, the species namely Uropeltis ellioti, Lycodon flavicollis, Psammophis longifrons, Sibynophis subpunctatus, and Calliophis melanurus are found in new locations. This study will enlighten the information regarding the snake diversity and forms a baseline data for future studies for the conservation.','Snakes, Checklist, Road kills, Telangana State.','Present paper dealing with updated checklist of snakes of Telangana State, based on field observations, rescued snakes, road kills, opportunistic sightings and review of literature revealed that the Telangana State is home for 39 species of snakes belonging to 30 genera and seven families. Among the 39 species, 25 (64%) were non venomous, seven (18%) were venomous and seven (18%) were mildly venomous. Among the total occurrence of species, the species namely Uropeltis ellioti, Lycodon flavicollis, Psammophis longifrons, Sibynophis subpunctatus, and Calliophis melanurus are found in new locations. This study will enlighten the information regarding the snake diversity and forms a baseline data for future studies for the conservation.','-','Bharath, S.P., Swamy, K., Naresh, B., Paramesh, L., Sadasivaiah, B. and Rao, V.V. (2021). Updated Snakes Check List and Extended Distribution of Five Species in the State of Telangana. Biological Forum â€“ An International Journal, 13(2): 228-236.'),(2892,'100','Comparative Analysis of effect of Nanoparticles Synthesized by Chemical and Green Methods on Seed Germination: A Review','Anjali Kumari, Chetna, Vanshika Rastogi, Battula Someshekar and Evangeline Christina','29 Comparative Analysis of effect of Nanoparticles Synthesized by Chemical and Green Methods on Seed Germination A Review Dr. Evangeline Christina.pdf','',1,'Nanoparticles (NPs) have different applications because of their special physical and chemical properties. The chemical method of nanoparticle synthesis is difficult due to its toxicity while the green route is considered ecofriendly. Different studies and experimentâ€™s data give the information about the properties exerted by the nanoparticles. All plants / seeds uptake their nutrients from nature but in some severe conditions we provide them with extra nutrients from outside to prevent their loss during seed germination process.The paper consists various data about the requirement of nanoparticles, their applications, the hazardous effects of the nanoparticles, various methods of preparation of nanoparticles via their synthesis, the advantages and the disadvantages of the nanoparticles based on their synthesis, the effects of various nanoparticles on the seed germination and it includes the analyzed data of effect of nanoparticles like zinc, copper, titanium, silver and iron synthes','Green synthesis, chemical synthesis, ecofriendly, nanoparticles, toxins, germination, hazardous','Nanoparticles are those particles which can enhance the properties of plants, seed growth or seed germination. Nanoparticles synthesised through green nanoparticles are less costly. While on the other hand, chemical methods such as sol-gel technique, polymer precursor method, etc, are expensive, which is the first reason why, green synthesised nanoparticles are more preferable over chemically synthesised nanoparticles. Chemically synthesised nanoparticles may be effective or helpful in seed germination but according to our study of different articles shows that, they can be toxic for the seed growth. Green synthesised nanoparticles are better way to enhance the seed germination without or with less toxic effects; they are eco-friendly, cost effective and they possess antimicrobial properties with amazing effects. As mentioned above chemically synthesised nanoparticleâ€™s effects are also depends upon the types of soil as well as on the type of crops. Different studies proved that green','-','Kumari, A., Chetna, Rastogi, V., Someshekar, B. and Christina, E. (2021). Comparative Analysis of Effect of Nanoparticles Synthesized by Chemical and Green Methods on Seed Germination: A Review. Biological Forum â€“ An International Journal, 13(2): 237-2'),(2893,'100','Evaluation of Bottle Gourd [Lagenaria siceraria (Molina) Standl.] Hybrids for Fruit Yield and Economics in Prayagraj Agro-Climatic Conditions','Anuj Sohi, V.M. Prasad, Priya Priyanka Tudu and Manoj Kumar','30 Evaluation of Bottle Gourd [Lagenaria siceraria _Molina_ Standl.] Hybrids for Fruit Yield and Economics in Prayagraj Agro-Climatic Conditions ANUJ SODHI 850.pdf','',1,'A field experiment was conducted during the period from February 13 to May 15 in the year 2020 at Vegetable Research Farm, Department of Horticulture, Sam Higginbottom University of Agriculture Technology and Sciences, Allahabad, (U.P.). The experiment was comprised of 17 hybrids of bottle gourd are studied and replicated thrice in a Randomized Block Design in 7.5 Ã— 3 m2 plot size. It was observed that the hybrid BG-HYB-18-2 gives best performance in terms of growth, yield and economics of the experiment. The minimum days required to first appearance of male flower (47.33). The minimum days required to first appearance of female flower (56.66). The minimum number of nodes to first appearance of male flower appearance (9.22). The minimum number of nodes to first appearance of female flower appearance (11.33). The maximum number of branches vine-1 was recorded (17.88), the maximum vine length was recorded (5.64 m). The maximum fruit weight was recorded (829.44 gm), the maximum length of','Growth, Yield, Bottle gourd.','It is concluded from the investigation that the treatment T2 (BG HYB 18-2) was found superior followed by T15 (Chandan) in growth and higher yield with quality factors. In this investigation the treatment T2 (2018/BOGHYB-2) was found suitable for cultivation in Zaid season for better yield hectare-1 (360.15 Quintals/ha). Among the economics of different hybrids the T2 (BG HYB 18-2) has the highest cost benefit ratio (1:3.50) followed by T15 (Chandan) (1:3.22). ','-','Sohi, A., Prasad, V.M., Tudu, P.P. and Kumar, M. (2021). Evaluation of Bottle Gourd [Lagenaria siceraria (Molina) Standl.] Hybrids for Fruit Yield and Economics in Prayagraj Agro-Climatic Conditions. Biological Forum â€“ An International Journal, 13(2):'),(2894,'100','Predominant Sedges & Broad-Leaved Weed Management by Herbicides and its Impact on Yield Parameters, Harvest Index and Grain Yield, Straw Yield of Kharif Direct Seeded Rice','Doppalapudi Vijaya Rani, Pinto B., Kanu M. and Srijani M.','31 Predominant Sedges & Broad-Leaved Weed Management by Herbicides and its Impact on Yield Parameters, Harvest Index and Grain Yield, Straw Yield of Kharif Direct Seeded Rice Doppalapudi Vijaya Rani 929.pdf','',1,'Direct Seeded Rice has been commercialized as an alternative technique for rice cultivation\r\nover puddled transplanted rice for sustainability reflections (able to save scarce resources like water, labor,\r\nenergy) besides DSR reduces GHG emissions, enhances soil physical properties and yield as well. Higher\r\nweed pressure observed in DSR with contribution of grasses, sedges and broad-leaved weeds. Raj et al.,\r\n(2013) found that 72% of grain yield reduction occurs in DSR due to the infestation of sedges and\r\nBLWs (weed-crop competition demolish crop yield by suppressing yield attributes) together called as nongrassy\r\nweeds. Use of herbicides, an alternative over manual weeding (Rao et al., 2007) hence, usage increased\r\nin South Asia by the spread of DSR (Azmi et al., 2005). In the present autopsy, the yield attributes increased\r\nsignificantly by adopting various weed control treatments as compared to weed check. Though, their efficacy\r\nvaried with respect to yield attributing characters','Sedges, BLWs, effective tiller, test weight, harvest index & Grain yield.','Among the different weed control treatments, the\r\nmaximum mean value of the most significant yield\r\nparameters viz. number of effective tillers plant-1\r\n(263.18), total number of grains panicle-1 (127.37) and\r\ntest weight of grains (22.65 g) were respectively\r\nobserved with Carfentrazone Ethyl 40 DF @ 25 g ha-1.\r\nWhile in case of weed management practices, the\r\nlowest value of all these yield parameters were\r\nobserved under weedy check plot. Significantly highest\r\nharvest index was recorded with Carfentrazone-ethyl 40\r\nDF @ 25 g ha-1 (47.53) which was coequal with weed\r\nfree treatment (47.53). Captivated grain yield acquired\r\nwith Carfentrazone Ethyl 40 DF @ 25 g ha-1; it has\r\nrecorded grain yield (50.16 q ha-1) significantly higher\r\nover all the treatments. While significantly higher straw\r\nyield recorded with Pyrazosulfuron Ethyl 10 WP @ 80\r\ng ha-1 (62.05 g ha-1).','-','Vijaya Rani, D., Pinto, B., Kanu, M. and Srijani, M. (2021). Predominant Sedges & Broad-Leaved\r\nWeed Management by Herbicides and its Impact on Yield Parameters, Harvest Index and Grain Yield, Straw Yield of Kharif\r\nDirect Seeded Rice. Biological Forum â€'),(2895,'100','A Review: Clonal and Plantation Trials of Eucalyptus in India','Navratan Gahlot, N.K. Bohra, Rawal Ram and Anuj Soni','32 A Review Clonal and Plantation Trials of Eucalyptus in India NK BOHRA 796.pdf','',1,'Eucalyptus is a diverse genus of flowering trees of a Myrtaceae family and it is a fast growing tree species widely planted in the Tropics mainly for the purpose of pulp wood for paper and rayon. As a short rotation and fast growing nature, this species is widely preferred by farmers, where there is a great demand. This review article is presented to compile all the updated information on its clonal and plantation trial in India for its quality, growth, uses and other different parameters. The main challenges to establish eucalyptus plantation in water scarcity areas is more concern due to high consumption of water and nutrient by some eucalyptus species. There is a need of technical and high-tech farming programmes to handle clonal germplasm of eucalyptus as commercial basis. The increasing demand of consumption of fuel wood should met through sustainable improvement of land and appropriate farming strategies. This review article is undertaken to evaluate the different clonal and plan','Eucalyptus, clones, clonal trial, quality parameters, growth parameters','The final conclusion of review suggests that the clonal trial of Eucalyptus at different site produces superior clones as per need and performance will be helpful for the farmers to increase their livelihood. The areas where no water scarcity exists with soil and other parameters are good, clonal plantation of desired traits can give good biomass and ultimately better return.','-','Gahlot, N., Bohra, N.K., Ram, R. and Soni, A. (2021). A Review: Clonal and Plantation Trials of Eucalyptus in India. Biological Forum â€“ An International Journal, 13(2): 260-268.'),(2896,'100','Variability among the Isolates of Sarocladium oryzae Isolated from Bihar (Zone I)','Nithin Kumar J.N. and Bimla Rai','33 Variability among the isolates of Sarocladium oryzae isolated from Bihar _Zone I_ NITHIN KUMAR 894.pdf','',1,'Sheath rot resistant breeding has been difficult due to a lack of knowledge about the pathogen\'s genetic variability and virulence pattern. Therefore, better understanding the disease\'s development, prediction of future disease outbreaks, the current inquiry will be carried out with the following specific aims in mind, limited work done on pathogen diversity. Fourteen isolates were collected from seven districts of Bihar (Zone I) for the study of cultural variability like radial growth, colour of mycelium and type of growth on PDA and morphological variability like length of Conidiophore, length of conidia and conidiation on PDA media. All the fourteen isolates grow fluffy irregular on PDA, Mycelium colour of eight isolates (Sob-1, Sob-2, Sob-4, Sob-5, Sob-6, Sob-8, Sob-9 and Sob-13) were whitish with pale orange colour, two isolates (Sob-3 and Sob-12) were whitish with deep orange and remaining four isolates (Sob-7, Sob-10, Sob-11 and Sob-14) were whitish with orange ochre. Highest ra','Isolates, variability, Conidia, Conidiophore.','Among the isolates, significant differences were observed in the length of conidiophores of different isolates tested on PDA media. Over all the isolates tested isolate Sob-8 (0.85cm) and Sob-11 (0.95cm) had least growth while isolate Sob-7 (3.20cm) had maximum radial growth on PDA, maximum length of Conidiophore was recorded in isolate Sob-4 (57.9Âµm) while the least length of Conidiophore was recorded in isolate Sob-8 (46.7Âµm). Longest length of conidia was observed in isolate Sob-10 (5.95Âµm) while the least conidial length was observed in Sob-5 (4.65Âµm).','-','Nithin Kumar J.N. and Rai, B. (2021). Variability among the isolates of Sarocladium oryzae isolated from Bihar (Zone I). Biological Forum â€“ An International Journal, 13(2): 269-272.'),(2897,'100','Effect of Weather Variables on the Development of Field Bean Anthracnose at Different Dates of Sowing','S. Narasimha Rao, S.L. Bhattiprolu, V. Prasanna Kumari, A. Vijaya Gopal and V. Sekhar','34 Effect of Weather Variables on the Development of Field Bean Anthracnose at Different Dates of Sowing S. Narasimha Rao.pdf','',1,'Weather variables has served a descriptive and predictive role by identifying and quantifying factors that lead to disease outbreak or cause spatial or temporal increase or decrease in disease severity. Accordingly studies on role of weather factors on the development of field bean anthracnose were conducted and results indicated that disease severity was significantly influenced by weather factors at different dates of sowing. Early infection, of about 5-7 days, occurred during 2017-18 irrespective of same dates of sowings as compared to during 2016-17. Progress of disease increased slightly from first week of November to last week of January or first week of February in both years and reached peak at 6th SWM, thereafter declined gradually due to raise in the temperature. During the major progress, mean maximum and minimum temperature were around 29.49ÂºC and 20.13ÂºC, respectively, whereas morning relative humidity was 86.05% with moderate rainfall. Correlation analysis showed positi','anthracnose, correlation, disease severity, field bean, regression, weather factors.','Plant disease is a dynamic process in time and space caused by the continuous irritation of a susceptible host due to a biotic or abiotic agent in a conducive environment which results in loss of crop or yield or both above economic threshold level. In the present it was concluded that, severity of field bean anthracnose was significantly influenced by different weather variables at different dates of sowing and January first two weeks were found favourable for initiation of disease.\r\nThe infection started at 46th SMW and attained its peak on completion of major portion of rainfall. Duration from 16th January to 9th February may be considered as window period for field bean anthracnose for entire season in different dates of sowing. Hence, it is necessary to implement various effective management strategies from 16th January to 9th February. Disease infection, development and spread are associated with weather factors. Temperature and humidity play an important role for the development','-','Rao, S. N., Bhattiprolu, S.L., Kumari3, V. P., Gopal, A.V. and Sekhar, V. (2021). Effect of Weather Variables on the Development of Field Bean Anthracnose at Different Dates of Sowing. Biological Forum â€“ An International Journal, 13(2): 273-281.'),(2898,'100','Management of Natural Resources in Indo-Gangetic Plain Region of India for Sustainable Agricultural Land Use Planning - A Case Study','Ashok Kumar, Sandeep Kumar Lal and R.S. Meena','35 Management of Natural Resources in Indo-Gangetic Plain Region of India for Sustainable Agricultural Land Use Planning - A Case Study Dr. Ashok Kumar.pdf','',1,'Household socio-economic survey was carried out in fourteen villages of different soil series following stratified random sampling technique. The information on various aspects for land use planning was collected from landholders and landless category respondents (N=140). The study area was delineated into nine soil series, and most of the soils belonging to sandy loam texture. Rice-wheat cropping system was followed in all villages, except Sei. Canal and tubewells comprised major sources of irrigation for 43.8 percent respondents whereas, mean across villages revealed that cattleshed and tubewells were major physical and mechanical facilities available with 50.2 and 43.7% respondents, respectively for the management of livestock and land resources. Among the scientific interventions, timely water availability was crucial to improve the crops yield for 50% respondents. In the study, a model was developed for delineation of alternate land use options and optimal natural resources manage','Agricultural land use planning; IGP; Management; Natural resources; Productivity; Sustainable','Among the natural resources, land and climate are the most important resources for sustenance and survival of other natural resources viz., water, vegetation, and livestock. Further, these two variables govern the agricultural and other land uses in an area thus, need to be considered in land use planning studies. Beside bio-physical resources, socio-economic resources also have greater role to play in allocation and management of different natural resources, including land uses. The study area was delineated into nine soil series for effective utilization and management needs view point. Rice-wheat cropping system occupied maximum area but other crops such as mustard, potato, sugarcane, pigeon pea, pearl millet, sorghum and cotton were also grown successfully. Besides agriculture, livestock is also considered important for livelihood of the respondents. Agroforestry, especially the farm forestry holds great promise as an alternate land use option due to several reasons including the e','-','Kumar, A., Lal, S.K. and Meena, R.S. (2021). Management of Natural Resources in Indo-Gangetic Plain Region of India for Sustainable Agricultural Land Use Planning - A Case Study. Biological Forum â€“ An International Journal, 13(2): 282-292.'),(2899,'100','Validation of Linked Markers of Blast and Blight Resistance Genes among Black Rice Accessionâ€™s of North East India','Noor Ahmed, S., Madhav, M.S., Padma, V. and Satish, Y.','36 Validation of Linked Markers of Blast and Blight Resistance Genes among Black Rice Accession’s of North East India NOOR AHMED 904.pdf','',1,'North East India has rich diversity of riceâ€™s, among them three land races of black aromatic glutinous rice of Manipur i.e. Chakhao Poireiton, Black Chakhao and Chakhao Amubi have gained a lot of importance in domestic as well as International market. This black riceâ€™s are poor yielders and are susceptible to major biotic and abiotic stresses. In the present investigation, three black rice land races i.e., Chakhao Poireiton, Black Chakhao and Chakhao Amubi were screened for blast and bacterial blight genes. To determine the presence of any blast and blight resistance genes, phenotyping on UBN using fungal isolates for blast, clip clipping with blb inoculum for blight in field was done and genotyping for two major blast (Pi54 and Pi2) resistant genes and three major blight (Xa21, xa13 and xa5) resistant genes were carried out by using functional markers (RM206, AP5659-5, pTA248, xa13 promoter and xa5FP, respectively). Both phenotyping and genotyping results have shown that black ric','Black rice, Chakhao Poireiton, Black Chakhao, Chakhao Amubi, blast resistance, bacterial leaf blight resistance, marker-assisted selection.','As the domestic demand for the black glutinous aromatic rice of Manipur is increasing, efforts are needed to improve the existing landraces by introgressing major blast and BLB resistant genes through molecular breeding approach which increases their yield without losing the grain\'s quality, cooking quality and aroma and encouraging the farmers to cultivate black rice. To the best of our knowledge, there was no early work done on blast and bacterial blight in black rice varieties. The identified polymorphic foreground markers from the present study will be utilized for genotyping the backcross and intercross population possessing blast and blight genes.','-','Noor Ahmed, S., Madhav, M.S., Padma, V. and Satish, Y. (2021). Validation of Linked Markers of Blast and Blight Resistance Genes among Black Rice Accessionâ€™s of North East India. Biological Forum â€“ An International Journal, 13(2): 293-297.'),(2900,'100','Lemongrass a Wonder Herb of Poaceae Family: An Overview\r\n\r\n','Spriha, Rattandeep Singh and Anupam Kumar','37 Lemongrass a Wonder Herb of Poaceae Family An Overview Dr. Anupam Kumar 924.pdf','',1,'Lemongrass is a native high-flowering aromatic plant of a family: Poaceae, grown in many tropical and subsoil regions of south-eastern Asia and Africa. In India, many lemongrass species are grown and cultivated in the warm, mild, wettest conditions at elevations altitude under 750 m. With average annual temperatures of between 23Â°C to 30Â°C and average annual precipitation between 2500 and 3000 mm Cymbopogon citratus produces the best. Lemongrass is an herb, itâ€™s leaves and oil are used for the treatment of bowel spasms, chest pain, higher blood pressure, epilepsy, dysentery, cough, knee achy (rheumatism), flu, common cold, and tiredness. The chemical composition of essential oils (EOs) as a signature properties of a plant and itâ€™s physiological conditions. Various environmental factors also play a critical role in the standardization of EOs. The cultivation of medicinal and aromatic vegetation (MAP) using bio-elicitors has been recommended as a real device to sustainably guarante','Lemongrass, Micropropagation, Anti cancerous, Anti-rheumatism.','Cymbopogon sp. is a fragrant grass that contains a wide range of bioactive compounds with a wide range of therapeutic properties. In the cosmetics and perfume fields, applications have already been discovered. The therapeutic value and essential oil of lemongrass could be used in the future in herbal medicine. It can help to prevent teeth and rubber diseases such as periodontitis and gum disease by removing bacteria from the oral cavity as well as by cure infectious diseases associated with the respiratory system. The Cymbopogon citratus is well known for its antibacterial activity. C. citratus demonstrated a high content of total flavonoids and total phenolic as well as an antioxidant potential for high free radical scavenging. C. citratus has good activity in anti-fungal, antimicrobial, anti-nociceptive, cardioprotective. C. citratus has vasorelaxant, antithetical, and sedative potential. For the preservation of our health, medicinal plants are very important. The pharmacological ass','-','Spriha, Singh, R. and Kumar, A. (2021). Lemongrass a Wonder Herb of Poaceae Family: An Overview. Biological Forum â€“ An International Journal, 13(2): 298-308.'),(2901,'92','Estimation of Variability for Wide Hybridization between Grasspea and Pea','Rita Chopkar, Abhinav Sao, H. C. Nanda, Sunil Nair and A.K. Sarawgi','106 Estimation of Variability for Wide Hybridization between Grasspea and Pea Rita Chopkar 948.pdf','',1,'The experiment was comprised of 55 crosses of wide hybrids of grasspea intergeneric with pea genotypes and interspecific crosses with three species viz., sativus, cicera and odoratus of grasspea. The analysis of variance revealed highly significant for eleven characters out of fourteen characters at 1% level of significance The remaining three characters viz., Number of primary branch per plant, pod length and pod breadth showed significant only at 5 % level of significance. The highest PCV and GCV was recorded for ODAP content (84.29, 84.19), Days to maturity (54.18, 53.40), seed yield per plant (53.24 , 52.73), seeds per plant (52.44 , 52.27), Pods per plant (45.91, 45.64), seed index (44.09, 43.94), Secondary branch per plant (36.27, 35.37), seeds per pod (32.14, 31.69), Pod length (26.43, 26.39) and Primary branch per plant (23.72, 21.53), high heritability coupled with high genetic advance as percent of mean was recorded for the characters ODAP estimation (99.75 %, 97.64)','Grasspea, genetic variability, heritability, genetic advance, wide hybridization, seed yield.','The analysis of variance showed a wide range of variation and significant difference for all the traits under research work with the sufficient amount of variability. The highest PCV and GCV was recorded for ODAP content, Days to maturity, seed yield per plant, seeds per plant, Pods per plant, seed index, Secondary branch per plant, seeds per pod, Pod length and Primary branch per plant. The genetic variability showed less influence of environment on the expression on traits. The heritability was recorded higher for all the fourteen characters. High heritability coupled with high genetic advance as percent of mean was recorded highest for the characters ODAP estimation followed by Seeds per plan, Seed Index, Days to 50 percent flowering, Seed yield, Seeds per pod, Days to maturit, Pod length, Days to first flowering, Pods per plant, Pod breadth, Secondary branch per plant and Primary branch per plant, it indicates that these traits are under the influence of additive gene ac','-','Chopkar, R., Sao, A., Nanda, H.C., Nair, S. and Sarawgi, A.K. (2021). Estimation of Variability Analysis for Wide Hybridization between Grasspea and Pea. Biological Forum â€“ An International Journal, 13(1): 736-745.'),(2902,'99','Sentiment Analysis of Studentsâ€™ Feedback before and after COVID-19 Pandemic','M. Umair, A. Hakim, A. Hussain and S. Naseem','25 Sentiment Analysis of Studentsâ€™ Feedback before and after COVID-19 Pandemic Dr.pdf','',1,'','','','',''),(2903,'100','Efficacy of Foliar Nutrient Sprays on Vegetative Traits of Sweet Cherry cv. Regina under High Density Plantation','Ejaz A. Parray, M. K. Sharma, K. M. Bhat, A. R. Malik, F.A. Khan, M. A. Bhat and J. I. A. Bhat','38 Efficacy of Foliar Nutrient Sprays on Vegetative Traits of Sweet Cherry cv. Regina Under High Density Plantation EJAZ PARRAY 926.pdf','',1,'To know the scale of efficacy of nutrients in upholding the vegetative health of sweet cherry and to find out the best treatment combination, two micronutrients (boron and zinc) and a macronutrient (potassium) were sprayed solo and in combinations at the time of white bud stage (>50%), in the form of boric acid (H3BO4), zinc sulphate heptahydrate (ZnSO4. 7H2O) and potassium sulphate (K2SO4). The details of the treatments were as; T0= Control; T1= H3BO4@0.15%; T2= ZnSO4@0.25%; T3= K2SO4@10%; T4= H3BO4@0.15%+ ZnSO4@0.25%; T5= H3BO4@0.15%+ K2SO4@0.40%; T6= ZnSO4@0.25%+ K2SO4 @0.40%; T7= H3BO4 @0.15%+ ZnSO4@0.25%+ K2SO4@0.40%. Zinc sulphate heptahydrate (ZnSO4. 7H2O) sprays, solo or in combination with boric acid and potassium sulphate showed more efficacy in promoting the growth characteristics of sweet cherry cv. Regina. However, during both the seasons of investigation treatment combination T7 (H3BO4 @0.15% + ZnSO4@0.25%+ K2SO4@0.40%) showed the highest efficacy in maintaining the overa','Sweet cherry, nutrient sprays, efficacy, plant health and leaf area.','Commercial yield and quality produce are only possible when the plant sufficiently receives the nutrients for attaining proper vegetative structure to support the sink photosynthate supply. Proper nutrition is indispensable in upholding a healthy and productive sweet cherry orchard. In this study, all the vegetative characteristics were significantly influenced by the foliar nutrient sprays, regardless of the treatment. Treatment combinations containing zinc showed higher efficacy in promoting the vigour of sweet cherry when compared to the rest of the treatments. Treatment combination T7 (H3BO4@0.15%+ ZnSO4@0.25%+ K2SO4@0.40%) proved to be best in upholding the overall plant health.','-','Parray, E. A., Sharma M. K., Bhat, K. M., Malik, A. R., Khan, F.A., Bhat, M. A., and Bhat, J. I. A. (2021). Efficacy of Foliar Nutrient Sprays on Vegetative Traits of Sweet Cherry cv. Regina Under High Density Plantation. Biological Forum â€“ An Internat'),(2904,'100','Studies on Development, Sensory Evaluation and Nutritional Composition of Quinoa Bar','Bawachkar R.R., More D.R., Alane S.T., Praveen B.R. and Swami A.M.','39 Studies on Development, Sensory Evaluation and Nutritional Composition of Quinoa Bar -Bawachkar R.R 909.pdf','',1,'In the present investigation, the quinoa bar was prepared by using different proportion of quinoa and defatted soy flour. In previous studies, various types of quinoa bar was prepared using puffed quinoa and quinoa flour. The quinoa and soybean contain anti-nutritional factor which gives bitter and beany flavor to bar which lowers acceptability of bar. Therefore to overcome these problems quinoa and soybean were treated with chemicals like sodium bicarbonate (2%) and citric acid (1%) solution. The soaked quinoa and soybean seeds were dried, roasted to reduce traces of anti-nutritional factor and to improve taste and flavor of quinoa bar. The different formulations were made with variation in defatted soy flour level from 0, 10, 20, 30 and 40% for T0, T1, T2, T3 and T4 respectively. The prepared quinoa bar was evaluated for their sensory characteristics and nutritional composition. The result revealed that quinoa bar with 20% defatted soy flour (T2) secured highest score (8.3) as compar','Ready-to-eat, snack food, quinoa bar, sensory evaluation, nutritional composition.','The study demonstrated that the quinoa and soybean can be used to formulate quinoa bars of good sensory and nutritional value which provide good amount of carbohydrate, protein, fat, dietary fiber and minerals. The quinoa bar prepared with 20% defatted soy flour was found to be highly acceptable and recorded maximum score in all the sensory attributes. The prepared quinoa bar (T2) had 18.1% moisture, 14.5% protein, 2.14% fat, 62.1% carbohydrate, 1.5% ash and 2.2% crude fiber. The prepared quinoa bar (T2) provide 325.6 kcal/100g energy. It can be concluded from result that good nutritional quality quinoa bar can be prepared by using quinoa and defatted soy flour, as soybean is rich in protein and well utilized as functional ingredient for preparation of quinoa bar.','-','Bawachkar R.R., More D.R., Alane S.T., Praveen B.R. and Swami A.M. (2021). Studies on Development, Sensory Evaluation and Nutritional Composition of Quinoa Bar. Biological Forum â€“ An International Journal, 13(2): 314-319.'),(2905,'100','Effect of Short-term Storage Conditions on Seed Germination of Fraxinus micrantha','Manisha Thapliyal, Namitha N.K., Amit Kumar, Kanupriya Rathore and Sheeshram Dangwal','40 Effect of Short-term Storage Conditions on Seed Germination of Fraxinus micrantha N.K Namitha 869.pdf','',1,'Fraxinus micrantha, a multipurpose tree species in the Indian Himalyan Region (IHR) has reportedly poor regeneration status and high mortality in the early stage of seedling development that causes vulnerability for plant existence in the natural geographical locations. The aim of this study was to investigate the storage potential of F. micrantha and to formulate the methodology for in situ conservation of the seed germplasm of the species. The laboratory experiments have investigated the germination response of Fraxinus micrantha seeds to short storage conditions in hermetically sealed containers at 6% moisture content at 5ÂºC. Initial germination of the seeds was recorded as 90%. The viability of the stored samaras was tested quarterly upto a period of 28 months. Germination parameters such as Mean Germination Time, Germination value, Peak value and Germination Index of the species were measured as per the standard methods. Mean Germination Percent (GP) of stored seed varied between','Conservation, germination, mean germination time, germination value, short-term seed storage. ','In the present study seed of Fraxinus micrantha stored for short-term storage period were tested at every quarter of the year to analyze the germination behaviour and germination parameters. Study concludes that, short-term seed storage at 6% moisture content at 5ÂºC Â± 1ÂºC storage temperature did not have significant reduction in viability in terms of GP, MGT, and GV while a substantial positive pattern in germination parameters were observed from fresh seeds to stored seeds, many times.\r\nThe seeds of F. micrantha exhibited good storage potential for conservation of the genetic resources of the species for short to medium-term. The study concluded that seed monitoring intervals in ex situ seed germplasm conservation of F. micrantha can also be extended to six months interval (desiccated 6% moisture content, 5ÂºC Â± 1ÂºC temperature) during short-term storage which can also reduce the monitoring time and human resources required for it. The seeds of Fraxinus micrantha exhibited good ','-','Thapliyal, M. Namitha, N. K., Kumar, A., Rathore, K., and Dangwal, S. (2021). Effect of Short-term Storage Conditions on Seed Germination of Fraxinus micrantha. Biological Forum â€“ An International Journal, 13(2): 320-324.'),(2906,'100','Assessment of Morphological Diversity in Indigenous Ambri apple (Malus Ã— domestica Borkh.)','Koushalya Devi, Kiran Kour and Parshant Bakshi, B.C. Sharma, Manmohan Sharma \r\nand B.K. Sinha','41 Assessment of Morphological Diversity in Indigenous Ambri apple _Malus × domestica Borkh._ KAUSHLAYA.pdf','',1,'The present field work was done in order to study prevailing genetic diversity and to obtained information on the magnitude of variability of several morphological traits, predict heritability and genetic advance and estimate divergence in Doda and Kishtwar districts of Jammu region. A total of 50 Ambri apple trees were marked out of 150 trees explored in two districts situated at 1272 to 1798 above mean sea level. Out of fifty selected Ambri apple genotypes 70 per cent genotypes showed biennial, 24 per cent genotypes showed irregularity, 6 per cent genotypes were found regular and 24 per cent genotypes showed irregularity in flowering behaviour. In case of flower initiation, 32.00 per cent genotypes were early bloomers, 52.00 per cent genotypes were mid bloomers while rest 16.00 per cent genotypes were late bloomers. Regularity of flowering was categorised as regular (6 per cent), biennial (70 per cent), and irregular (24 per cent) among genotypes under study. On spur and mixed bearin','Ambri apple, diversity, flowering, fruit, variability','The present study highlights the presence of significant morphological variability among the Ambri apple accessions in Jammu region. All the observations made in this study will provide valuable evidence for decision making in characterization of Ambri apple germplasm and its management.','-','Devi, K., Kour, K., Bakshi, P., Sharma, B. C., Sharma, M. and Sinha, B. K. (2021). Assessment of Morphological Diversity in Indigenous Ambri Apple (Malus Ã— domestica Borkh.). Biological Forum â€“ An International Journal, 13(2): 325-331.'),(2907,'100','Economics of In Vitro Grown Plantlets of Clonal Apple MM-106 Rootstock','Manmohan Lal, Mahital Jamwal, Manmohan Sharma, Parshant Bakshi, Amit Jasrotia, Amit Kumar and Akshay Deep','42 Economics of In Vitro Grown Plantlets of Clonal Apple MM-106 Rootstock Manmohan Lal 914.pdf','',1,'Lack of information is available on practicality and profitability of in vitro multiplied plants of clonal apple rootstocks as compared to field multiplied plants through conventional methods. To develop a best economical and suitable protocol through in vitro techniques of apple clonal rootstock MM106, the present investigation was carried at Plant Tissue Culture laboratory of School of Biotechnology (SBT) and Tissue Culture laboratory of Advanced Centre for Horticulture Research (ACHR), Udheywalla campus, SKUAST-Jammu during the year 2018. Results from the investigations indicated that the unit cost of one in vitro raised plantlet from explant which were excised from 2-3 year-old clonal rootstock of apple was estimated to be Rs. 44.56, whereas through conventional methods the estimated production cost of ex vitro seedling is Rs. 80.00.','Apple, MM106, economics, in vitro and ex vitro.','Lack of information is available on practicality and profitability of in vitro multiplied plants of clonal apple rootstocks as compared to field multiplied plants through conventional methods. To develop a best economical and suitable protocol through in vitro techniques of apple clonal rootstock MM106, the present investigation was carried at Plant Tissue Culture laboratory of School of Biotechnology (SBT) and Tissue Culture laboratory of Advanced Centre for Horticulture Research (ACHR), Udheywalla campus, SKUAST-Jammu during the year 2018. Results from the investigations indicated that the unit cost of one in vitro raised plantlet from explant which were excised from 2-3 year-old clonal rootstock of apple was estimated to be Rs. 44.56, whereas through conventional methods the estimated production cost of ex vitro seedling is Rs. 80.00.','-','Lal, M., Jamwal, M., Sharma, M., Bakshi, P., Jasrotia, A., Kumar, A., and Deep, A. (2021). Economics of In Vitro Grown Plantlets of Clonal Apple MM-106 Rootstock. Biological Forum â€“ An International Journal, 13(2): 332-335.'),(2908,'100','Effect of Modified Steel Slag Application as Soil Amendment on Soil Quality and Spinach Yield in a Copper Contaminated Vertisol','M. Vassanda Coumar, M. Sharma, R.C. Jain, J. K. Saha, S.C. Gupta, S. Rajendiran6 and A.K. Patra','43 Effect of Modified Steel Slag Application as Soil Amendment on Soil Quality and Spinach Yield in a Copper Contaminated Vertisol Dr. M. Vassanda Coumar 897.pdf','',1,'In recent years, soil pollution caused by heavy metals has emerged as a global issue. Several industrial by-products like red mud, flyash and steel slag have been potentially used as soil amendments for remediation of contaminated soil. A study was conducted under controlled green house condition to evaluate the effects of modified steel slag (acid modified steel slag, ACMSS and spent wash modified steel slag, SWMSS) application on soil quality and spinach yield in a Cu contaminated Vertisol. The dry matter yield of spinach leaf and root was recorded during 2015-16 and 2016-17 and the post harvest soil sample was analyzed for bioavailable Cu content. The results revealed that steel slag (SS) or modified steel slag application showed significant effect on soil properties over control. Among the treatments, SWMSS and spent wash (SW) application resulted in significant increase in soil organic carbon (SOC) over control. DTPA extractable Cu was significantly reduced by 28.8%, 21.9% and 9.','Modified steel slag, Spent wash, Spinach crop, Copper contaminated soil, Phosphatase activity, Dehydrogenase activity. ','Heavy metal contaminations in soil due to anthropogenic activities are evident and become global issues in recent years. Historically, several technologies exist to remediate heavy metal contaminated soil; however, the most promising technology for remediation of contaminated sites is contaminants stabilization particularly heavy metals by the incorporation of organic or inorganic amendments in soil. To conclude from the present study it clearly implicate that steel slag treated with HCl (acid modified steel slag) has greater potential in reducing the mobility of heavy metal in soil and its subsequent transfer to edible plant parts (spinach leaf) as evidenced by reduction in DTPA extractable Cu in the post harvest soil sample of a Cu Contaminated Vertisol. Further studies on heavy metal release from the adsorbed steel slag or modified slag under long term experiments needs to be evaluated. ','-','Coumar, M.V., Sharma, M., Jain, R.C., Saha, J.K., Gupta, S.C., Rajendiran, S. and Patra, A.K. (2021). Effect of Modified Steel Slag Application as Soil Amendment on Soil Quality and Spinach Yield in a Copper Contaminated Vertisol. Biological Forum â€“ An'),(2909,'100','Moisture Dependent Physical and Engineering Properties of Pearl Millet Grains','S. Panda, S.K. Swain, D. Behera, D.K. Mohanty, A.K. Mohapatra, K. Rayaguru and A.K. Dash','44 Moisture Dependent Physical and Engineering Properties of Pearl Millet Grains S. Panda 919.pdf','',1,'An experimental study on the engineering, frictional, and aerodynamic properties of pearl millet grain was conducted which are essential to design different post-harvest gadgets such as threshers, winnowers, and storage bins. The study was conducted within the moisture content range from 9.2% to 20.9% (wb). Within the said range it is observed the with increasing moisture content the linear dimension such as length, width and thickness increased. With an increase in moisture content, the geometrical mean diameter, arithmetic mean diameter, square mean diameter, and equivalent mean diameter increased from 1.39 to 1.65 mm, 1.65 to 1.98 mm, 2.30 to 3.09 mm and 1.73 to 1.98 mm, respectively. The coefficient friction for glass, mild steel surface, GI sheet, and plywood increased linearly from 0.365 to 0.398, 0.402 to 0.414, 0.396 to 0.412, and 0.339 to 0.357, respectively with an increase in moisture content. It was observed that plywood has the lowest coefficient friction whereas mild stee','Pearl millet, engineering properties, terminal velocity, aspect ratio, coefficient of friction','The present study provides a piece of comprehensive basic information about the engineering, frictional and aerodynamic properties of pearl millet grain for designing small scale post-harvest machinery especially a pearl millet thresher for small and marginal farmers which include the coefficient of friction for designing of sieve slope, angle of repose for designing of hopper and feeding chute, terminal velocity for designing of blower and aspirator and grain size (GMD, SMD, AMD & EQD) for designing of sieve openings, size of holes and concave clearance.','-','Panda, S. , Swain, S.K. , Behera, D., Mohanty, D.K., Mohapatra, A.K., Rayaguru, K. and Dash, A.K. (2021). Moisture Dependent Physical and Engineering Properties of Pearl Millet Grains. Biological Forum â€“ An International Journal, 13(2): 345-351.'),(2910,'100','Investigation on Effect of Mycoflora of Paddy Seed on Weight of Seed, Germination of Seed and Vigour Index of Seedling','L.B. Singh, R.W. Ingle, S.R. Potdukhe, T.S. Pillai, S. S. Isokar, V.D. Pawar and M. Qutub','45 Investigation on Effect of Mycoflora of Paddy Seed on Weight of Seed, Germination of Seed and Vigour Index of Seedling L B SINGH 947.pdf','',1,'Paddy seed mycoflora, which causes glume discoloration in paddy, was considered a minor disease and is gaining importance in almost all paddy growing areas of the world. The present investigation was taken up to investigate on seed mycoflora of paddy in Eastern Vidarbha with respect to impact assessment of associated mycoflora on germination of seed, length of root and shoot length, seedling vigour index and seed weight loss. Seed samples of 7 paddy varieties viz. PKV Kisan, D100, Sindewahi, RPN 7, RPM, MTU 1001 and 1010 were assessed and categorized into 6 grades viz. 0, 1, 3, 5, 7 and 9 on the basis of Standard Evaluation System for paddy. The results on weight loss due to discolouration revealed that increase in discolouration intensity on seed leads to decrease in 1000 seed weight (g) in all 7 varieties. In all the 7 varieties, per cent weight loss was the highest in grade 9 viz. PKV Kisan (29.96%), Sindewahi (22.50%), D100 (43.61%), RPN 7 (44.32%), RPM (11.64%), 1010 (28.12%) an','Paddy, mycoflora, paper towel method, seedling vigour index.','The assessement of all 7 varieties into 7 different grades indicated that maximum per cent fungal association was found to associated with the increase in discolouration intensity. The results on thousand seeds weight revealed that increase in discolouration intensity leads to reduction in thousand seeds weight in all the 7 varieties. It was observed that with increase in discolouration intensity, the germination per cent, root length and shoot length decreased significantly in all the 7 varieties. Seedling vigour index was found to be significantly higher in healthy seeds when compared to highly discoloured seeds. Thus, the study has shown that mycoflora associated with seed discolouration are major constraints in production of quality seeds of paddy. Therefore, care should be taken regarding production and post production activities for healthy, disease free quality seed and to minimize crop failure.','-','Singh, L.B., Ingle, R.W., Potdukhe, S.R., Pillai, T.S., Isokar, S.S., Pawar, V.D. and. Qutub, M. (2021). Investigation on Effect of Mycoflora of Paddy Seed on Weight of Seed, Germination of Seed and Vigour Index of Seedling. Biological Forum â€“ An In'),(2911,'100','Substrate Evaluation for Mass Multiplication of Entomopathogenic Fungal Isolates for Management of Walnut Weevil','Mushtaq Ahmad Guroo, Rakesh Kumar Gupta, Hafeez Ahmad, Mudasir Gani, Kamlesh Bali, Mohd. Ayoub Mantoo, Amit K. Singh, Ajay Gupta and Muneeshwar Sharma','46 Substrate Evaluation for Mass Multiplication of Entomopathogenic Fungal Isolates for Management of Walnut Weevil Mushtaq Ahmad Guroo 878.pdf','',1,'The selection of suitable media with respect to growth and sporulation of entomopathogenic fungi is an obligatory precondition for their large scale mass production and field application henceforth. In tandem with this, laboratory experiments were conducted to demonstrate the efficacy of using different liquid and solid media for the mass multiplication and estimation of conidial count of entomopathogenic fungal isolates of B. bassiana and M. anisopliae for the management of walnut weevil, Alcidodes porrectirostris Marshall. The results of mass culturing on liquid media tested, indicated that highest conidial count per unit area after inoculation was obtained for Bb-BH2 isolate (32.02 Ã— 104 conidia/cm2) followed by Bb-BH1 (31.08 Ã— 104 conidia/cm2) on Potato-dextrose agar (PDA) medium compared to Sabouraud dextrose agar (SDA)and Oat-meal agar (OMA) media. In case of solid media evaluated, maximum sporulation of Bb-BH2 was recorded on rice grains (6.62 Ã— 106spore/g) while as in Ma-PO','Media, conidia, isolate, rice, control, experiment, multiplication','There were two findings in this study. First, growth and sporulation of B. bassiana and M. anisopliae isolates is affected by different liquid and solid substrate culture conditions. Second, among the liquid media tested, PDA medium ensured the maximum growth and sporulation while as among the solid media, maximum hyphal growth and conidial count of B. bassiana occurred on rice grains and that of M. anisopliae isolates, it occurred on wheat grains. These media should therefore be used for the mass multiplication of these isolates for managing A. porrectirostris when used under field conditions.','-','Guroo, M. A., Gupta, R. K., Ahmad, H., Gani, M., Bali, K., Mantoo, M. A., Singh, A. K., Gupta, A. and Sharma, M. (2021). Substrate Evaluation for Mass Multiplication of Entomopathogenic Fungal Isolates for Management of Walnut Weevil. Biological Forum â€“'),(2912,'100','Standardization of Novel Mushroom Jerky and Consumer Preference','P. Geetha, A. Sudha and P. Preetha','47 Standardization of Novel Mushroom Jerky and Consumer Preference P. Geetha 888.pdf','',1,'A new product mushroom jerky which us an alternate to meat jerky (a popular snack item in the Western countries), was prepared and its nutritional and sensory qualities were analysed. The cleaned button mushrooms were marinated one hour at ambient temperature and kept in a refrigerated condition (5Â°C) for 10 hours and dried at 60 Â°C for 7 hours. Then, it was packed in a polyethylene bag of 150gauge thickness and kept for storage. The proximate analysis like energy, carbohydrate, protein, fat, fibre, calcium and iron and sensory characteristics were was determined. The results indicated that carbohydrates, protein, fat, crude fibre, calcium and iron of chilli treated jerky were 60.13g, 23.73g, 2.16g, 8.33g, 538.19mg, 7.45mg % respectively. In the case of pepper treated mushroom jerky the results were found to be 60.58g, 22.99g, 1.96g, 8.17g, 541.19 mg, 7.55mg% respectively. The scores of mushroom jerkies were 7.95 and 7.50; 7.78 and 7.00; 7.69 and 6.79; 7.69 and 7.00, 7.47 and 7.00 ','Mushroom, button, jerky, nutritional and sensory qualities.','Mushrooms can be converted in to value added products and the post harvest spoilage may be prevented. The mushrooms are nutritionally and nutraceutical rich which can prevent many diseases. According to this study, it is suggested that the novel chilli mushroom jerkies can be used as an alternate for meat jerky for vegan people and also a new avenue for a nutri rich snack . The nutrient content of the jerkies is also increased due to concentration during drying. ','-','Geetha, P. Sudha, A. and Preetha, P. (2021). Standardization of Novel Mushroom Jerky and Consumer Preference. Biological Forum â€“ An International Journal, 13(2): 362-366.'),(2913,'100','In vitro Evaluation of various Fungicides against Spore Germination Inhibition of Erysiphe cichoracearum DC. in bhendi','Ashwini R., Y. S. Amaresh, Sunil Kulkarni, Yenjerappa, S.T., Shekhargouda Patil and S. G. Hanchinal','48 In vitro Evaluation of various Fungicides against Spore Germination Inhibition of Erysiphe cichoracearum DC. in bhendi Ashwini R 939.pdf','',1,'Bhendi powdery mildew caused by Erysiphe cichoracearum DC. affects all the stages of the plant growth by causing premature defoliation and resulting 17.0 to 86.6 per cent yield loss in bhendi. Looking into significance of disease various non- systemic, systemic and combi product fungicides were evaluated in vitrofor their efficacy against E. cichoracearum by spore germination technique. Results revealed, among non-systemic, systemic fungicides evaluated, irrespective of concentrations tested, wettable sulphur, difenconazole recorded maximum mean spore germination inhibition of 78.68, 86.06 per cent, respectively and least spore germination inhibition (43.03 %, 68.07 %) was noticed inthiram and carbendazim. Among combi fungicides evaluated, tebuconazole 50 % + trifloxystrobin 25 % recorded maximum mean per cent inhibition of spore germination (88.06 %) and least mean per cent spore germination inhibition (40.49 %) was recorded in copper oxy chloride 14 % + copper hydroxide 14 %.','Powdery mildew, Erysiphe cichoracearum, in vitro, spore germination technique, non- systemic, systemic and combi product fungicides.','Various systemic, non-systemic and combi product fungicides which are found effective under in vitro conditions can be tested for their efficacy in controlling powdery mildew of bhendi under field conditions.','-','Ashwini R., Amaresh, Y. S., Kulkarni, S., Yenjerappa, S. T., Patil, S. and Hanchinal, S. G. (2021). In vitro Evaluation of various Fungicides Against Spore Germination Inhibition of Erysiphe cichoracearum DC. in bhendi. Biological Forum â€“ An Internatio'),(2914,'100','Effect of Termitomyces sp. on Decolorization and Degradation of Congo Red (CR)','Kavitha Mary Jackson* and Velu Gomathi','49 Effect of Termitomyces sp. on Decolorization and Degradation of Congo Red _CR_ Kavitha Mary Jackson 900.pdf','',1,'Decoloration and degradation of Congo red by basidiomycete fungi Termitomyces sp. was evaluated in this study using fungal biomass as adsorbent. Potential isolate TMS 7 Termitomyces sp. isolated from Western Ghats of Tamil Nadu and their biomass production was optimized using four different media. Decoloration study was conducted using different quantity of fungal biomass (0.5-3.5 g) to decolorize different concentration of Congo red (25-250 mg/L) and degradation of congo red was evaluated by using FT-IR. Fungal biomass production was optimized using four different media i.e. Potato Dextrose Agar, Malt Extract agar, Modified Melin Nokrans and Pridham-Gottlieb Modified by Kueti (PGK) and malt extract media recorded maximum growth than other three. Results of decoloration study reveal that least dye concentration (25 mg/L) was degraded up to 99.9 per cent by 0.5-3.5 g fungal biomass and highest dye concentration (250 (mg/L) was decolored to the extent of 55.2% by high fungal biomass of','Azo dye-Congo red- Termitomyces sp.- degradation-FTIR.','In the present investigation an attempt was made to degrade and decolorize the mostly used textile dye Congo red by white rot fungus Termitomyces sp. complete and partial decolorization was observed in 50 to 250 mg/ 100 ml dye concentration and also degraded products were recorded by FT-IR analysis. Reason behind degradation might be due to the enzyme such as\r\ncellobiose dehydrogenase, xylanase and other lignocellulosic enzymes exudated by the fungus. Degraded products were adsorbed with the cell wall material of fungus and there is a strong degradation in the azo bond (azide) also observed. The results indicate that bio sorption and biodegradation of azo dye by Termitomyces sp. could be a potential application in the bioremediation of textile effluents containing azo dyes and other toxic compounds with some parameter (pH, temperature, quantity of biomass, organic adsorbents etc.) optimization according to the dye concentration. This investigation gives insight about the azo dye degrad','-','Jackson, K. M., and Gomathi, V. (2021). Effect of Termitomyces sp. on Decolorization and Degradation of Congo Red (CR). Biological Forum â€“ An International Journal, 13(2): 374-380.'),(2915,'100','Influence of Antioxidants on in vitro Culture Establishment of Clonal Apple Rootstocks','Manmohan Lal, Mahital Jamwal, Parshant Bakshi, Amit Jasrotia, Nirmal Sharma, Mamta Sharma, Prabhdeep Singh, Sakshi Sharma and Sanjay Kumar','50 Influence of Antioxidants on in vitro Culture Establishment of Clonal Apple Rootstocks Manmohan Lal.pdf','',1,'The phenol exudation from explants of woody plant species increases the rate of oxidative browning that causes death of the majority of cultured explants. A study was carried out to identify the best antioxidant for in vitro culture establishment and to minimize the phenol exudation in explants of clonal apple rootstocks MM106 and MM111. The experiment was carried out at Plant Tissue Culture laboratory of School of Biotechnology and Tissue Culture laboratory of Advanced Centre for Horticulture Research, Udheywalla of SKUAST-Jammu during the year 2018. Results indicated that MS + 10 g PVP (AM4) resulted in highest culture establishment in MM111 and MM106 clonal apple rootstocks. The shoot tip and nodal segment explants of MM111 rootstock recorded highest culture establishment i.e. 47.88 per cent and 35.33 per cent, respectively, whereas 32.22 per cent and 27.27 per cent culture establishment was obtained in shoot tip and nodal segment, respectively in MM106 rootstock. ','Antioxidants, in vitro, culture establishment, MM106 and MM111.','The phenol exudation from explants of woody plant species increases the rate of oxidative browning that causes death of the majority of cultured explants. A study was carried out to identify the best antioxidant for in vitro culture establishment and to minimize the phenol exudation in explants of clonal apple rootstocks MM106 and MM111. The experiment was carried out at Plant Tissue Culture laboratory of School of Biotechnology and Tissue Culture laboratory of Advanced Centre for Horticulture Research, Udheywalla of SKUAST-Jammu during the year 2018. Results indicated that MS + 10 g PVP (AM4) resulted in highest culture establishment in MM111 and MM106 clonal apple rootstocks. The shoot tip and nodal segment explants of MM111 rootstock recorded highest culture establishment i.e. 47.88 per cent and 35.33 per cent, respectively, whereas 32.22 per cent and 27.27 per cent culture establishment was obtained in shoot tip and nodal segment, respectively in MM106 rootstock. ','-','Lal, M., Jamwal, M., Bakshi, P., Jasrotia, A. Sharma, N., Sharma, M., Singh, P., Sharma, S. and Kumar, S. (2021). Influence of Antioxidants on in vitro Culture Establishment of Clonal Apple Rootstocks. Biological Forum â€“ An International Journal, 13(2):'),(2916,'100','Diversity Analysis of Grain Attributes in Restorer Lines of Rice (Oryzae sativa)','S. Tiwari, G.K. Koutu and N. Pathak','51 Diversity Analysis of Grain Attributes in Restorer Lines of Rice _Oryzae sativa_ Shweta Tiwari 759.pdf','',1,'The investigation in diversity of ninety restorer concluded. As, grain is the prior economic part of any crop, thus variability analysis, based on 18 grain morphological and quantitative traits has provided the significance to this research. Grain diversity study faced a major challenge in collection of diverse genotype in single platform; the problem got sorted through the contribution made by Seed Breeding Farm, JNKVV, Jabalpur, (M.P.). The huge diversion is articulated for the traits -grain length and width, decorticated grain length and grain width, thousand grain weight (g) and decorticated grain shape. ANP 526 depicted the unique morphology along with highest mean yield 39.8g, the specific anthocyanin colouration could signify morphological marker trait during breeding programme. The genetic parameter of variability revealed that thousand grain weight having high mean (23.19), high heritability (97.2) and high genetic advance as percentage of mean (53.21) among all traits and the','Diversity, Hybridization Genetic parameter, DUS guidelines, Grain morphology and Marker trait','The grain being a key contributor of economic yield in rice needed to be evaluated stringently. Therefore, the research orientation is towards extracting the core character responsible for variability and yield. In this experiment, the thousand grain weight was found to have high heritability and high genetic advance. The choice of such trait majorly in paddy would help to differentiate among superior restorer, especially during three line hybrid production programme. Also, on assessment of all genotypes, R 710 has shown highest value of genetic parameter of variability and mean yield, has maximum potential of developing superior recombinant and release of improved hybrids in hybridization breeding programme.','-','Tiwari, S., Koutu, G. K. and Pathak, N. (2021). Diversity Analysis of Grain Attributes in Restorer Lines of Rice (Oryzae sativa). Biological Forum â€“ An International Journal, 13(2): 386-392.'),(2917,'100','New Distributional Record of Indian Sand Snake Psammophis condanarus (Merrem, 1820) (Reptilia: Lamprophiidae) from Telangana, India','Kummari Swamy, Baja Naresh, Bharath Simha Yadav and V. Vasudeva Rao','52 New Distributional Record of Indian Sand Snake Psammophis condanarus _Merrem, 1820_ _Reptilia Lamprophiidae_ from Telangana, India Kummari Swamy 821.pdf','',1,'Indian Sand Snake Psammophis condanarus is found in dry low country zones of Indian peninsula. There are no records found in Telangana State, here we are presenting new distributional record to the Telangana State. ','Psammophis condanarus, distribution, Telangana State.','Indian Sand Snake Psammophis condanarus is found in dry low country zones of Indian peninsula. There are no records found in Telangana State, here we are presenting new distributional record to the Telangana State. ','-','Swamy, K., Naresh, B., Yadav, B. S., and Rao, V.V. (2021). New Distributional Record of Indian Sand Snake Psammophis condanarus (Merrem, 1820) (Reptilia: Lamprophiidae) from Telangana, India. Biological Forum â€“ An International Journal, 13(2): 393-395.'),(2918,'100','Combining Ability Studies for Fruit Yield and its Components in Bottle Gourd [Lagenaria siceraria (Mol.) Standl.]','J. R. Balat, J. B. Patel, I. R. Delvadiya and A. V. Ginoya','53 Combining Ability Studies for Fruit Yield and its Components in Bottle Gourd [Lagenaria siceraria _Mol._ Standl.] A.V. Ginoya 864.pdf','',1,'Forty five bottle gourd genotypes comprising 36 hybrids and 9 parents were evaluated in four different environments for combining ability analysis for days to opening first female flower, days to opening first male flower, number of node bearing first female flower, number of node bearing first male flower, vine length (cm), days to first picking, fruit length (cm), fruit equatorial diameter (cm), number of fruits per plant, average fruit weight per plant (kg), days to last picking and fruit yield per plant (kg). The data were analyzed as per Method-II, Model-I of Griffing (1956). The results revealed that, both additive and non-additive gene effects played an important role in the genetic control of the traits studied. The Ïƒ2GCA / Ïƒ2SCA ratio was more than unity for days to first opening female flower, days to first opening male flower, vine length, fruit equatorial diameter and number of fruits per plant indicates the preponderance of additive gene action for these traits, while fo','Bottle gourd, Combining ability, Gene action.','From the results, it can be concluded that use of parents ABG 1, NDBG 132, Arka Bahar and Pusa Naveen in future breeding programme would be more useful in augmenting genes for high yield in bottle gourd. It was further noted that involvement of these parents in hybridization resulted into hybrids expressing useful heterosis for different traits. Hybrids ABG 1 Ã— Arka Bahar and Punjab Long Ã— NDBG 132 had high per se performance possessed desired sca effects as well significant and desirable standard heterosis for fruit yield per plant and some of its important component traits can be exploited in practical plant breeding. ','-','Balat, J. R., Patel, J. B., Delvadiya, I. R. and Ginoya, A. V. (2021). Combining Ability Studies for Fruit Yield and its Components in Bottle Gourd [Lagenaria siceraria (Mol.) Standl.]. Biological Forum â€“ An International Journal, 13(2): 396-403.'),(2919,'100','Response of Irrigation and Hydrogel on Growth and Yield of Pearl Millet (Pennisetum glaucum L.) under eastern UP Condition','Sumit Ray, Umesha C. and M. R. Meshram','54 Response of Irrigation and Hydrogel on Growth and Yield of Pearl Millet _Pennisetum glaucum L._ under eastern UP Condition SUMIT RAY 902.pdf','',1,'A trail was carried out at Central Crop Research Farm, Department of Agronomy, SHUATS, Prayagraj, (U.P.) during Zaid-2020. The soil of experimental site was sandy loam in texture, nearly neutral in soil reaction. The experiment was laid out in split plot design and having nine treatment consisted of Hydrogel viz., H0 (0 kg/ha), H1 (2 kg/ha) and H2 (4 kg/ha) and Irrigation viz., I1 (2 Irrigation during Emergence and Early Tillering), I2 (3 Irrigation during Emergence, Early Tillering and Boot stage) and I3 (4 Irrigation during Emergence, Early Tillering, Boot stage and Grain filling) which are replicated thrice and effect was observed on Manipuri variety of Bajra. The result shown significantly higher effect of irrigation on plant height (182.34 cm), Earhead length (34.05 cm), Total Dry weight (128.33 g), LAI (6.02), Grain yield (1.88 t/ha), Stover yield (4.31 t/ha) and harvest index (30.24 %) were recorded in four irrigation. In case of effect of hydrogel, significantly higher plant he','Hydrogel, Irrigation, Yield, Pearl Millet.','Pearl millet needs a less amount of water as compared to rice or wheat. Application of hydrogel along with irrigation during critical stage of crop in pearl millets provides a better results as compared to only irrigated conditions. Hence for better growth and yield of pearl millet, application of 4 irrigation at different growth stages along with hydrogel 4 kg/ha considerable increased and found beneficial. Hydrogel breaks down to CO2 and ammonia when comes in contact with sunlight leaving behind zero residue. Application of hydrogel with limited amount of irrigation available with farmers in different part of arid and semi-arid region of India can be helpful by increase yield of crop without any detrimental effect to soil.','-','Ray, S., Umesha C. and Meshram, M. R. (2021). Response of Irrigation and Hydrogel on Growth and Yield of Pearl Millet (Pennisetum glaucum L.) under eastern UP condition. Biological Forum â€“ An International Journal, 13(2): 404-407.'),(2920,'100','Influence of Spacing and Phosphorus on Growth and Yield of Green Gram (Vigna radiata L.) in Prayagraj Condition','Vikramjeet Singh and Vikram Singh','55 Influence of Spacing and Phosphorus on Growth and Yield of Green Gram _Vigna radiata L._ in Prayagraj Condition VIKRAMJEET SINGH 851.pdf','',1,'A field experiment was conducted at Central Crop Research Farm, Department of Agronomy, SHUATS, Prayagraj, (U.P.) during Zaid-2020 by adopting two important factor of crop production spacing and phosphorus levels, it seems necessary factors for achieving the higher yield of green gram. The seed rate with unmanaged spacing which increases intra species competition and yield decrease. Besides, P also plays a significant role for the growth of green gram, phosphorus (P) required for energy transformation in nodules which contribute yield, hence green gram cultivation need more attention as it is important pulse crop in India. Spacing and phosphorus levels necessary factors for achieving the higher yield and economics of green gram. The soil of experimental plot was sandy loam in texture, nearly neutral in soil reaction (pH 7.7), low high carbon (0.44%), low available N (171.48 kg/ha), low available P (9.27kg/ha) and high available K (291.2 kg/ha). The experiment was laid out in randomized','Spacing, Phosphorus, Green Gram, Yield.','In the light of above study, it may conclude that under Eastern UP condition Green gram raised yield at T6 (30 Ã— 10 cm + 60 kg/ha phosphorus) is fitting practice has proved to be a better option for getting higher productivity under irrigated condition. ','-','Singh, V. and Singh, V. (2021). Influence of Spacing and Phosphorus on Growth and Yield of Green Gram (Vigna radiata L.) in Prayagraj Condition. Biological Forum â€“ An International Journal, 13(2): 408-412.'),(2922,'99','Modeling and Simulation of Fixed Bed Column for Arsenic Removal using Iron Ore and PAN Fiber Adsorbents','Zulfiqar Ali Solangi, Inamullah Bhatti and Khadija Qureshi','26 Modeling and Simulation of Fixed Bed Column for Arsenic Removal using Iron Ore and PAN Fiber Adsorbents Zulfiqar Ali Solangi 3624.pdf','',1,'','','','',''),(2923,'100','Appraisal of Biological Yield and Economic Returns of Existing Agroforestry Systems in Tehsil Bangana of Una District of Himachal Pradesh, India','Jattin Sharma, Som Dutt Sharma, Kamal Sharma, and Dushyant Sharma','56 Appraisal of Biological Yield and Economic Returns of Existing Agroforestry Systems in Tehsil Bangana of Una District of Himachal Pradesh, India Som Dutt Sharma 913.pdf','',1,'Agroforestry systems exist in Tehsil Bangana of Una District, Himachal Pradesh are not so productive due to lack of scientific knowledge among the local people. These systems require improvement both in terms of structure as well as productivity. Therefore the present study was conducted to assess biological yield and economic returns of existing agroforestry systems in Tehsil Bangana of Una District of Himachal Pradesh, India, during the year 2019-20. For survey and data collection, 324 farmers were selected randomly from three categories viz., marginal, small, and medium based on landholding capacity. The study revealed that five agroforestry system types prevalent among different categories of farmers namely: Agri-silviculture (AS), Agri-horticulture(AH), Agri-Horti-silviculture (AHS), Horti-pastoral (HP), and Silvi-pastoral (SP). Total biological yield among existing agroforestry systems was found highest (31.02 t ha-1yr-1) under the Silvipastoral system (SP) due to a large number ','Agroforestry, Biomass, Coefficient of variation, Farmerâ€™s category, Net return, Production cost.','In the study area, five agroforestry system types were identified. The highest total biological yield (31.02t ha-1 yr-1) was found under SP and the lowest (16.60 t ha-1 yr-1) under the AH system in the medium category of farmers. Whereas, maximum net return (1,51,761 Rs. ha-1 yr-1) was obtained from AS and a minimum (5,993 Rs. ha-1 yr-1) from SP System types irrespective of farmers category. AHS in the medium category of farmers was found to be less stable due to higher variation in net returns and needs suitable interventions for its improvement.','-','Sharma, J., Sharma, S. D., Sharma, K., and Sharma, D. (2021). Appraisal of Biological Yield and Economic Returns of Existing Agroforestry Systems in Tehsil Bangana of Una District of Himachal Pradesh, India. Biological Forum â€“ An International Journal,'),(2924,'100','Studies on Evaluation of Cassava (Manihot esculenta Crantz) Genotypes for the Coastal Region of Karaikal','V. Kanthaswamy, Jibna Annie George and E. Venkadeswaran','57 Studies on Evaluation of Cassava _Manihot esculenta Crantz_ Genotypes for the Coastal Region of Karaikal E. Venkadeswaran 908.pdf','',1,'Cassava (Manihot esculenta Crantz) is one of the most important crops in the tropics. There is no specific variety of cassava recommended for the cultivation in the Karaikal region. But there is a huge demand for cassava for culinary purpose. Hence, it is main challenge to identify two or three suitable varieties for coastal region of Karaikal. With this background a field experiment was carried out in the Department of Horticulture, Pandit Jawaharlal Nehru College of Agriculture and Research Institute, Karaikal, U.T. of Puducherry to assess the per se performance of 33 genotypes of cassava for growth and yield.The experiment was laid out in a Randomised Block Design with three replications. Among the 33 genotypes, CO 3 was found to be the shortest with a plant height of 120.80 cm, while the tallest genotype was Sree Vishakam with 290.30 cm. Sree Jaya produced highest number of leaves plant-1 (213.50). The highest number of tubers plant-1 and individual tuber weight recorded in CO 3 (1','Cassava, per se performance, growth, tuber yield.','Analysis of variance revealed the presence of significant differences among the genotypes for all the characters. In the present investigation based on the per se performance of 33 genotypes, CO 3 recorded the highest tuber yield plant-1 and ha-1 (2.48 kg and 44.09 t ha-1, respectively) followed by Sree Rekha (2.43 kg and 43.20 t ha-1, respectively) and Sree Prabha (2.32 kg and 41.24 t ha-1, respectively). These genotypes also significantly recorded higher mean performance in other growth and yield contributing traits viz., number of leaves plant-1, number of tubers plant-1, individual tuber weight, dry matter content of the tubers, tuber length and tuber girth. These productive traits would have significantly contributed to the tuber yield plant-1. By popularization of these varieties there is a good scope for expansion of cassava varieties area through Department of Agriculture by Minikit or True Cassava Miniset Programme.','-','Kanthaswamy, V., George, J. A. and Venkadeswaran, E. (2021). Studies on Evaluation of Cassava (Manihot esculenta Crantz) Genotypes for the Coastal Region of Karaikal. Biological Forum â€“ An International Journal, 13(2): 420-425.'),(2925,'100','Indigenous Schizthoracine Fishes as Bioindicators of Parasitic Infections in Kashmir','Jehangir Hudha, Manzoor ur Rehman, Imtiyaz Qayoom, Showkeen Bashir and Arif Ali','58 Indigenous Schizthoracine Fishes as Bioindicators of Parasitic Infections in Kashmir Imtiyaz Qayoom 718.pdf','',1,'Present study was undertaken to study the alterations in blood biochemical indices due to the presence of helminth parasites in Schizothorax and carp fishes collected from Dal and Anchar lakes of Kashmir. The prevalence of parasites and other indices were assessed and compared with the alterations in the serum biochemical indices of infected as well as uninfected fishes. During the investigation three helminth parasites viz. Pomphorhyncus, Neoechinorhyncus and Adenoscolex were recovered from the infected fish specimens examined. The overall prevalence of parasites in Schizothorax and carps of Dal Lake was 48.54% and 41.23% respectively, while as in Anchar Lake, it was 53.70% and 50.50% respectively. In Dal Lake, among Schizothorax fishes the highest prevalence was of Pomphorhyncus parasite (26.21%) followed by Neoechinorhyncus (19.42%) and Adenoscolex (15.53%). In case of carp fishes the order was Neoechinorhyncus (21.93%) followed by Pomphorhyncus (19.30%) and Adenoscolex (14.04%). In','biochemical indices, Anchar Lake, Dal Lake, Helminth parasites, Fishes, Eutrophication.','Present study was undertaken to study the alterations in blood biochemical indices due to the presence of helminth parasites in Schizothorax and carp fishes collected from Dal and Anchar lakes of Kashmir. The prevalence of parasites and other indices were assessed and compared with the alterations in the serum biochemical indices of infected as well as uninfected fishes. During the investigation three helminth parasites viz. Pomphorhyncus, Neoechinorhyncus and Adenoscolex were recovered from the infected fish specimens examined. The overall prevalence of parasites in Schizothorax and carps of Dal Lake was 48.54% and 41.23% respectively, while as in Anchar Lake, it was 53.70% and 50.50% respectively. In Dal Lake, among Schizothorax fishes the highest prevalence was of Pomphorhyncus parasite (26.21%) followed by Neoechinorhyncus (19.42%) and Adenoscolex (15.53%). In case of carp fishes the order was Neoechinorhyncus (21.93%) followed by Pomphorhyncus (19.30%) and Adenoscolex (14.04%). In','-','Hudha, J., Manzoor ur Rehman, Qayoom, I., Bashir, S. and Ali, A. (2021). Indigenous Schizthoracine Fishes as Bioindicators of Parasitic Infections in Kashmir. Biological Forum â€“ An International Journal, 13(2): 426-432'),(2926,'100','Common Aeromonas Infections in Ornamental Fishes: A review','Mayank Soni, Qurratul An Qureshi, Monalisa Mishra, Chandrabhushan Shivkumar Nishad, Bhagchand Chhaba and Sushree Akankshya Das','59 Common Aeromonas Infections in Ornamental Fishes A review Mayank Soni 870.pdf','',1,'In fishes majority of the pathogenic agent of disease are bacteria, fungi, viruses, and parasites. Generally, the primary causes of contagion are gram-negative bacteria, which have been identified often from diseased fish, resulting in increased mobility and death rates. Bacterial illness can become evident as acute, chronic, or peracute symptoms, but the challenge is that when signs emerged and the disease was recognized, it\'s too late to cure. Aeromonas are most devastating among all the bacteria and cause significant losses in all cultures, including the ornamental fish culture. It is eminently found in water and is constantly present. An extrinsic agent such as overpopulated, sloppy handling, deteriorating water which leads to degrading quality, contaminated food, and inadequate diet, might incline fish towards Aeromonas infection. Motile species of Aeromonas are recognised as the etiological agents of motile Aeromonad septicemia infections in ornamental fish, which cause significa','Aeromonas, Ornamental, Pathogenicity, Therapy, Medication, Prevention. ','Aeromonas can be found in ornamental fish environments such as fish tanks, culture systems, and transport begs within fish. But it requires a trigger to activate, such as poor water quality, excess food, or stress. It can treat three disorders in particular: Ulcer disease, MAS, and Furunculosis, and it is suggested that more research is required for the identification of new conditions related to Aeromonas infection because it is among the commercially significant pathogenic bacteria. Aeromonas is both virulent and avirulent. It has virulence due to the occurrence of several essential virulent factors such as secretion systems, extracellular enzymes, and exotoxins. It also contains certain virulent factors, although they are not as crucial. Finally, disease prevention and management are critical. It is crucial to mention in this section that preclusion is better than Treatment; thus it is crucial to adopt sound management practices and create a stress-free environment. If a disease occ','-','Soni, M., Qureshi, Q.N., Mishra, M., Nishad, C.S., Chhaba, B. and Das, S.A. (2021). Common Aeromonas Infections in Ornamental Fishes: A review. Biological Forum â€“ An International Journal, 13(2): 433-439.'),(2927,'100','Studies on Technology Development, Organoleptic Evaluation and Proximate Composition of Instant Sorghum Tortilla Mix','Alane S.T., Gadhe K.S., Pandit M.G. and Bawachkar R.R.','60 Studies on Technology Development, Organoleptic Evaluation and Proximate Composition of Instant Sorghum Tortilla Mix Shakuntala Alane 911.pdf','',1,'In the present investigation, the instant sorghum tortilla mix was prepared with incorporation of soybean, bengal gram and fenugreek leaves powder. From previous study it was observed the anti-nutritional factor present in sorghum and soybean reduces nutritional value of prepared product. To overcome this problem in this study pre-treatment like malting of sorghum and soaking and roasting of soybean was done therefore the anti-nutritional factor removed and desired quality of product was obtained. The instant sorghum tortilla mix was prepared with constant base of malted sorghum flour and variation of bengal gram soybean and fenugreek leaves powder i.e. sample T1 (70:23:05:02), T2 (70:17:10:03), T3 (70:11:15:04) and T4 (70:05:20:05. The spice mix is added for enhancement of taste and flavour of product. The prepared mix was analyzed for its proximate composition such as protein, carbohydrate, fat etc. On the basis of sensory evaluation by hedonic scale, the mix prepared with incorpora','Instant mix, tortilla, sorghum flour, soybean flour, fenugreek leaves, chemical composition, sensory properties.','From present investigation, it may be concluded that sorghum provide good option for reducing protein malnutrition problem with a soybean as active source of protein. Fenugreek leaves provide fibre which aid to maintain blood sugar level. Sample T3 comprises moisture 5.9, fat 5.02, protein 15.53, carbohydrate 66.02, crude fibre 3.46 and ash 1.59 per cent respectively. Nutritionally rich and organoleptically acceptable sorghum tortilla can be successfully prepared by incorporation of 15 per cent soybean flour, 11 per cent bengal gram flour and 4 per cent fenugreek leaves powder. ','-','Alane S.T., Gadhe K.S., Pandit M.G. and Bawachkar R.R. (2021). Studies on Technology Development, Organoleptic Evaluation and Proximate Composition of Instant Sorghum Tortilla Mix. Biological Forum â€“ An International Journal, 13(2): 440-444.'),(2928,'100','Green Manure Crops: A Review','A.V. Ramanjaneyulu, N. Sainath, D. Swetha, R. Uma Reddy and R. Jagadeeshwar','61 Green Manure Crops A Review A.V. Ramanjaneyulu 940.pdf','',1,'Injudicious use of synthetic chemical fertilizers without proper replenishment of soil organic matter and fertility are posing threat to soil and crop productivity. Further, indiscriminate use of synthetic pesticides and growth regulators contaminated the soil, water and air, thus affected the ecosystem services and ecological balance. Chemical Agriculture degraded the resource base for future generations thus food and nutritional security are at stake. Among many low monetary input practices to reduce the impact of these ill effects, green manuring is the most important and popular one. The results of research across the globe indicated that incorporation of a leguminous green manure crop can substitute up to 50% of N fertilizer needs of various cropping systems besides improving soil fertility and health. This practice play a pivotal role in promoting organic farming. However, availability of green manure seed, optimum soil moisture and suitable machinery for incorporation are the ma','Green manures, soil fertility, ecosystem services, contamination.','Green manure crops can fix atmospheric N and supply part of it to the crops grown in sequence. They play a greater role in promoting organic farming. They can reclaim alkaline soils, save N to be applied to crops, improve the availability of many essential nutrients, enhances nitrogen use efficiency, soil health and quality and crop productivity. Their cultivation has to be encouraged in rice fallows, vacant degraded lands and watershed areas. In view of numerous benefits, farmers must be convinced and encouraged to grow green manure crops for insitu incorporation. The on-going rural employment guarantee schemes can be taken as an advantage to promote planting of green leaf manure trees and shrubs, which in turn can be utilized for green leaf manuring by farmers. However, farmers need to be provided suitable machinery like cage wheels, rotavators, disc harrows etc., through custom hiring centres, for incorporation of green manures and upscaling the technology. Further research need to ','-','Ramanjaneyulu, A.V., Sainath, N., Swetha, D., Reddy, R.U. and Jagadeeshwar, R. (2021). Green Manure Crops: A Review. Biological Forum â€“ An International Journal, 13(2): 445-455.'),(2929,'99','Role of Nanomaterials in Environment Clean Up technologies: Toward a Sustainable Tomorrow\r\n\r\n','Nitya Garg','27 Role of Nanomaterials in Environment Clean Up technologies Toward a Sustainable Tomorrow NITYA GARG 3590.pdf','',1,'','','','',''),(2930,'99','Economic Feasibility and Environmental Aspects of an Electric Vehicle by using Standalone Photovoltaic Energy','Md Rabiul Hasan and Choudhury Abul Anam Rashed','28 Economic Feasibility and Environmental Aspects of an Electric Vehicle by using Standalone Photovoltaic Energy Md Rabiul Hasan 3537.pdf','',1,'','','','',''),(2931,'100','Effect of Different Weed Management Practices of Moth bean (Vigna aconitifolia)','Santanu Kumar Moharana, Shikha Singh, Kakali Deb and Kimudu Girisha','62 Effect of Different Weed Management Practices of Moth bean _Vigna aconitifolia_ SANTANU KUMAR MOHARANA 927.pdf','',1,'An experiment was carried out during Kharif season of 2020 at Crop Research Farm, NAI, SHUATS to evaluate the bio-efficacy of herbicides on growth and yield of moth bean (Vigna aconitifolia) and associated weeds. The experiment consisted of 9 treatments which includes hand weeding, pendimethalin as pre-emergence herbicide, fluchloral in as pre-plant incorporation and post emergence herbicide, imazethapyr as post-emergence herbicide and Unweeded (Weedy check).The results indicate the occurrence of broadleaf plants, grasses and sedges. Where seven weed species belonging to 5 families were identified. The dominant weed species are Digera muricata, Phyllanthus niruri, Melothria pendula, Cynodon dactylon, Digitaria sanguinalis, Dactyloctenium aegyptium and Cyperus spp. The result revealed that, application of Imazethapyr PoE 30 g/ha recorded maximum plant height (29.75cm), whereas Fluchloralin PPI 0.50 kg/ha obtained maximum crop growth rate (5.27 g/m2/day), pods/plant (31.53), seeds/pod (','Moth bean, weed control methods, herbicides and seed yield. ','The application of Imazethapyr PoE 50 g/ha was found more effective on weeds in moth bean under Uttar Pradesh climatic condition, whereas Fluchloralin PPI 0.50 kg/ha found more effective on yield and economics in moth bean.','-','Moharana, S. K., Singh, S., Deb, K. and Girisha, K. (2021). Effect of Different Weed Management Practices of Moth bean (Vigna aconitifolia). Biological Forum â€“ An International Journal, 13(2): 456-460.'),(2932,'100','Effect of Light Intensity and Different Levels of Nitrogen on Growth, Yield and Photosynthetic Characteristics of Giant Mustard (Brassica juncea var. Wong Bok)','Yash Kumar Singh, Samir Ebson Topno, Vijay Bahadur and Pragya Shrivastava','63 Effect of Light Intensity and Different Levels of Nitrogen on Growth, Yield and Photosynthetic characteristics of Giant Mustard _Brassica juncea var. Wong Bok_ Yash Kumar Singh 953.pdf','',1,'This experiment was conducted to explore the shady places on agricultural land. In the experimental field it was done by giving different light intensity (with the help of shade net) to the crop along with different level of nitrogen. The field experiment was carried out in factorial Randomized block design with three replications, during Rabi season 2019-2020 in Horticulture Research Farm, Department of Horticulture, SHUATS. Experiment was setup in 18 treatments i.e. different levels of nitrogen in combination with different levels of light intensity (25% and 50%) on growth, yield and photosynthetic characteristics of giant mustard which include No. of leaves, Plant height (cm), Weight of plant (kg), Yield per plot (kg plot-1), Leaf thickness (mm), Fresh leaf mass (g), Light Intensity (lux), Atmospheric temperature (Â°C), Precipitation (mm). From the experiment, treatment combination T10 i.e. NPK (55:40:40) + 50% Shade (Green Net) was found superior for application of nitrogen @ 55 kg','Giant Mustard, NPK, Light Intensity, growth, yield.','It is concluded from the experiment that treatment combination T10 i.e. NPK (55:40:40) +50% Shade (Green Net) was found superior for application of nitrogen @ 55 kg ha-1 in blend with light intensity 50% suitable for enhancing growth, yield and photosynthetic characteristics of giant mustard. \r\nLevel of NPK 55:40:40 and level of shade 50% recorded significantly higher values for growth and yield attributing characters, viz., number of leaves highest observed in treatment T10 [NPK (55:40:40) +50% Shade (Green Net)] was 15.55, plant height 43.10cm, Weight of plant 1558.33g, yield per plot 6.84 kg, Leaf thickness 0.79 mm, Fresh leaf weight 65.83g, Light Intensity (lux) 25% 9916.00 lux, Light Intensity (lux) 50% 8002.33 lux in comparsion with other treatments. Level of NPK (55:40:40) +50% Shade (Green Net) treatment also, shows at par results when compared to other treatments. \r\n','-','Singh, Y. K., Topno, S. E., Bahadur, V. and Shrivastava, P. (2021). Effect of Light Intensity and Different Levels of Nitrogen on Growth, Photosynthetic characteristics and Yield Attributes of Giant Mustard (Brassica juncea var. Wong Bok). Biological Foru'),(2933,'100','Studies on Correlation for Growth, Yield and Quality Characters in Cherry Tomato [Solanum lycopersicum (L.) var. cerasiforme Mill.]','E. Venkadeswaran, P. Irene Vethamoni, T. Arumugam, N. Manivannan and S. Harish','64 Studies on Correlation for Growth, Yield and Quality Characters in Cherry Tomato [Solanum lycopersicum _L._ var. cerasiforme Mill.] Venkadeswaran 912.pdf','',1,'A filed experiment was conducted in the university orchard, Department of Vegetable Crops, Horticultural College and Research Institute, Tamil Nadu Agricultural University, Coimbatore, Tamil Nadu, India. The 24 cherry tomato genotypes were evaluated to estimate the nature and magnitude of associations of different characters with fruit yield. The experiment was conducted using Randomized Block Design and replicated thrice. The correlation coefficients of the cherry tomato genotypes revealed that the yield hectare-1 showed positive and significant association at genotypic level with plant height at flowering, plant height at final harvest, number of primary branches plant-1 at flowering, days to first flowering, number of flowering clusters (truss) plant-1, number of fruits cluster-1, number of fruit cluster plant-1, number of fruits plant-1, fruit length, number of locules fruit-1, fruit weight, number of seeds fruit-1, weight of 1000 seeds, yield plant-1, shelf life of fruits, total s','Cerasiforme, cherry tomato, correlation, Lycopersicum, quality, yield.','The correlation coefficients of the cherry tomato germplasm revealed that the yield hectare-1 showed positive and significant association at genotypic level with plant height at flowering, plant height at final harvest, number of primary branches plant-1 at flowering, days to first flowering, number of flowering clusters (truss) plant-1, number of fruits cluster-1, number of fruit cluster plant-1, number of fruits plant-1, fruit length, number of locules fruit-1, fruit weight, number of seeds fruit-1, weight of 1000 seeds, yield plant-1, shelf life of fruits, total sugars, titrable acidity and lycopene. The yield hectare-1 showed positive and significant association at phenotypic level with number of primary branches plant-1 at final harvest, number of flowers cluster-1, fruit width, weight of seeds fruit-1, fruit firmness, total soluble solids and total carotenoids. Hence, these traits may lead to the development of high yielding genotypes of cherry tomato.','-','Venkadeswaran, E., Vethamoni, P. I., Arumugam, T., Manivannan, N. and Harish, S. (2021). Studies on Correlation for Growth, Yield and Quality Characters in Cherry Tomato [Solanum lycopersicum (L.) var. cerasiforme Mill.]. Biological Forum â€“ An Internati'),(2934,'100','Hybrids Evaluation of Bottle Gourd [Lagenaria siceraria (Molina) Standl.] for Fruit Growth Yield Quality and Morphological Traits in Prayagraj Agro-Climatic Conditions','Anuj Sohi, V.M. Prasad, Vijay Bahadur and Samir E. Topno','65 Hybrids Evaluation of Bottle Gourd [Lagenaria siceraria _Molina_ Standl.] for Fruit Growth Yield Quality and Morphological Traits in Prayagraj Agro-Climatic Conditions Anuj Sohi 993.pdf','',1,'During the month of February 13 to May 15 in the year 2020 a research experiment was conducted at Vegetable Research Farm, Department of Horticulture, Sam Higginbottom University of Agriculture Technology and Sciences, Allahabad, (U.P.). The research experiment consists 17 hybrids of bottle gourd which are studied and replicated three times in a Randomized Block Design in 7.5 Ã— 3 m2 plot size. It was found that the hybrid BG-HYB-18-2 gives best performance in terms of growth, quality and morphology of the experiment. The minimum days required to appearance of first male flower (47.33). The minimum days required to appearance of first female flower (56.66). The maximum number of branches vine-1 (17.88), the maximum vine length (5.64 m). The maximum fruit weight (829.44 gm), the maximum number of fruits vine-1 (9.77). The maximum yield plant-1 (8.10 kg), the maximum yield hectare-1 (360.15 quintal). The maximum Ascorbic Acid content (34.11 mg/gm of fruit pulp). The Maximum TSS (4.17oBr','Growth, Quality, Morphology Bottle gourd.','It is concluded from the investigation that the treatment T2 (BG HYB 18-2) was found superior followed by T15 (Chandan) in growth and higher yield with Quality factors. In this investigation the treatment T2 (2018/BOGHYB-2) was found suitable for cultivation in Zaid season for better Quality (Ascorbic acid : 34.11 gm/mg of fruit pulp) and (TSS : 4.17Â°Brix).','-','Sohi, A., Prasad, V. M., Bahadur, V. and Topno, S. E. (2021). Bottle Gourd [Lagenaria siceraria (Molina) Standl.] Hybrids Evaluation for Fruit Growth Yield Quality and Morphological Traits in Prayagraj Agro-Climatic Conditions. Biological Forum â€“ An Int'),(2935,'99','Numerical Modelling of Artisanal and Small-scale Mining Production','S. Perez Rodriguez','29 Numerical Modelling of Artisanal and Small-scale Mining Production Sergio Perez Rodriguez 3567.pdf','',1,'','','','',''),(2938,'100','Assessment of Physical Properties of Soils of Darjeeling District, West Bengal, India','Anushka Rai, Tarence Thomas, Arun Alfred David and Raghunandan Singh Khatana','66 Assessment of Physical Properties of Soils of Darjeeling District, West Bengal, India Anushka Rai 893.pdf','',1,'The study was undertaken in 2020-2021 aiming to assess the physical properties of soils from Darjeeling district, West Bengal. Soil samples were collected from 9 different villages at profile depths of 0-15cm, 15-30cm and 30-45cm. The data revealed that the selected soil samples varied from brown to â€œyellowish brown colour in dry conditionâ€ while â€œdark brown colour predominated in the wet conditionâ€. â€œDomination of textural class, sandy clay loamâ€ was seen in more than six villages. The value of specific gravity augmented with depth and ranged from â€œ1.61 Mg m-3 to 2.57 Mg m-3â€. The water holding capacity and pore space percentage varied from â€œ61.53 to 76.92% and 50 to 61.1%â€ respectively. The values of bulk density and particle density did not show much variation with depth but significant difference was found due to site with respect to particle density. Owing to the paucity of information on layered characteristics of soil physical properties in various sites of ','Physical properties, soil analysis, Darjeeling, bulk density, water holding capacity.','It can be concluded that the soils of Darjeeling district have a good physical condition which favours the cultivation of most crops. Lighter soil colour was observed in the surface layer while the subsurface was characterized by darker colour. Soil texture showed high clay percentage. The bulk density values were considerably low and increased with increase in depth. The particle density also increased with depth. Low specific gravity values indicate high organic matter content. Good water holding capacity and pore space percentage is indicative of high clay content and thus makes Darjeeling terrace farms suitable for cultivation of paddy, maize, millet, ginger, buckwheat, cardamom, oranges and guava and vegetables such as cabbage, squash, spinach and a variety of other crops since these soil conditions are favorable for the growth of most crops.','-','Rai, A., Thomas, T., David, A.A. and Khatana, R.S. (2021). Assessment of Physical Properties of Soils of Darjeeling District, West Bengal, India. Biological Forum â€“ An International Journal, 13(2): 480-487.'),(2939,'100','Characterizing Forest Fire Fuel in mid-hills of Himachal Pradesh','Divya Mehta and Parminder Kaur Baweja','67 Characterizing Forest Fire Fuel in mid-hills of Himachal Pradesh- DIVYA MEHTA-969.pdf','',1,'Forest fire is one of the main reasons of forest degradation in India and has adverse impact on environment, economy and human health. In Himachal Pradesh, mid hills forests are largely prone to ground fires due to accumulation of litter on the forest floor. Therefore, the present investigation was carried out in pure pine, pure oak and mixed forests of Himachal Pradesh with the aim of determining forest floor characters viz. fuel thickness (cm), biomass density (t ha-1), moisture content (%) and calorific value (cal g-1), using Randomized Block Design technique. Fuel thickness was measured using a meter rod, biomass and moisture content was estimated using green weight and oven dry weight of samples and calorific value measurements were taken using bomb calorimeter. Results revealed that pure pine forests had thicker fuel (5.62 cm) with highest biomass density (5.68 t ha-1) and lowest moisture content (2.05%) among all three forests. Floor fuel of pine forests, which were primarily co','Forest fire, forest floor characters, forest fuel.','The objective of present investigation was to characterize fuel in pure pine, pure oak and mixed \r\nforests of Himachal Pradesh which mainly contribute to ground fire incidences. Results revealed that pure pine forest provided most favourable conditions to forest fire due to thicker fuel (5.62 cm), denser biomass (5.68 t ha-1), lower moisture content (2.05%) and high calorific value (5731.2 cal g-1). Fuel thickness and biomass density could play important role in spread of forest fire by providing continue fuel (Jhariya, 2014; Reinhardt et al., 2010; Prasad et al., 2008 and Hill et al., 2000). Low moisture content with high calorific value can contribute to fire initiation (Arkadiusz, 2015; Zeng et al., 2014; Gravalos et al., 2010 and Dimitrakopoulos and Papaioannou, 2001). Hence fuel management practices are necessary to reduce fire occurrence in pine forests. \r\n','-','Mehta, D. and Baweja, P. K. (2021). Characterizing Forest Fire Fuel in mid-hills of Himachal Pradesh. Biological Forum â€“ An International Journal, 13(2): 488-493.'),(2940,'100','Effect of Irrigation Regimes and Herbicides on Phalaris Minor in Wheat (Triticum aestivum L.)','Kairovin Lakra','68 Effect of Irrigation Regimes and Herbicides on Phalaris Minor in Wheat _Triticum aestivum L.pdf','',1,'For sustainable wheat production management of Phalaris minor are the major challenge. An experiment was carried out at Kanpur in rabi season of 2017-18 and 2018-19 in split-plot design with four replication having four irrigation regimes in main plot viz. irrigation at CRI and active tillering (I1), irrigation at CRI + jointing + booting (I2), CRI + active tillering + booting + flowering stage (I3) and irrigation at CRI + jointing + booting + flowering + milking stage (I4), and eight herbicidal treatments (W1-weedy check, W2- hand weeding at 20 and 40 days after sowing, W3-sulfosulfuron 25 gha-1 at 35 DAS, W4- pendimethalin (pre-em) fb WCPL-15, 400 gha-1at 35 DAS, W5- broadway (carfentrazone ethyl 20% + sulfosulfuron 25%WG) 100 gha-1 at 35 DAS, W6- halauxafen + penxasulam 23.5%, 75 gha-1 at 35 DAS, W7- halauxafen - methyl 1.21% w/w + fluroxypyr at 35 DAS and W8- clodinafop- propargyl 15% + metsulfuron 1%, 400 gha-1 35 DAS) were allocated to sub plots for assessing their effects on P.','CRI, Irrigation, Herbicides, P. minor, WCE, Yield. ','The field experiment was conducted at Kanpur during 2017-18 and 2018-19 under SPD having four replication with four irrigation regimes in main plot and eight factors of weed management were allocated to sub plots. Based on the above results it can conclude that irrigation at CRI and active tillering stage (I1) significantly reduced the density and weight of P. minor with highest WCE and CRI however, maximum WE, grain and biological yield was achieved with I4 irrigation. Among weed management treatments, application of broadway (carfentrazone- ethyl 20% + sulfosulfuron 25% WG) 100 gha 1at 35 DAS (W5) was recorded lowest density and weight of P. minor, WE and the highest WCE, CRI, WPI and yield of wheat followed by W8.','-','Lakra, K. (2021). Effect of Irrigation Regimes and Herbicides on Phalaris Minor in Wheat (Triticum aestivum L.). Biological Forum â€“ An International Journal, 13(2): 494-499.'),(2941,'100','Determinants of Farmers indebtedness and Promptness of Repayment in Andhra Pradesh','S. Amrutha and I.V.Y. Rama Rao','69 Determinants of Farmers’ indebtedness and Promptness of Repayment in Andhra Pradesh 966-S.pdf','',1,'Now-a-days natural calamities like floods; other biological and management factors are having significant role in affecting the agriculture production prospects, thereby, making the farmers to end up in a debt trap. This led to some of the farmers to commit suicides in many states including agro-potential states like Andhra Pradesh. Several assessing have been taken up regarding the performance of different financial institutions. But, the economic analysis of farmersâ€™ indebtedness, factors responsible, impact of Loan waiver scheme etc., is of immediate concern. \r\nNorth coastal districts (NCD) in Andhra Pradesh, were selected based on the highest debt ratio among the marginal and small farmers. The present study taken-up to explore the determinants of farmer-borrowersâ€™ indebtedness in three North Coastal Districts (NCD) of Andhra Pradesh viz., Srikakulam, Vizianagaram and Visakhapatnam. District Cooperative Central Bank (DCCB) and State Bank of India (SBI) were selected for coopera','Farmers indebtedness, North Coastal Districts (NCD), Andhra Pradesh.','Educational level and farm experience had positive associations with repayment of debt; there is greater need to educate the farmers on skills of crop rising to improve the productivity. \r\nâ€” Family expenditure and farming experience were found significant; the policy makers should take into consideration of these factors to formulate the policies in alleviating the debt. \r\nâ€” Adverse climatic factor was the major factor in non-repayment of debt, government should make measure to speed-up the compensation mechanism, as all crop loanees are insured.\r\n','-','Amrutha, S. and Rao, I. V. Y. Rama (2021). Determinants of Farmersâ€™ indebtedness and Promptness of Repayment in Andhra Pradesh. Biological Forum â€“ An International Journal, 13(2): 500-506.'),(2942,'100','Detection of Seed Borne Mycoflora Associated with Paddy Varieties of Eastern Vidarbha','L.B. Singh, R.W. Ingle, S.R. Potdukhe, T.S. Pillai and R.M. Wadaskar','70 Detection of Seed Borne Mycoflora Associated with Paddy Varieties of Eastern Vidarbha-L.B. Singh 979.pdf','',1,'Paddy grain discolouration is an important disease and it has led to huge losses when the favourable conditions are available. It is caused by a complex of mycoflora. Paddy seeds of 7 varieties viz. PKV Kisan, D100, Sindewahi, RPN 7, RPM, MTU 1001 and 1010 were collected from different regions of Eastern Vidarbha. The maximum discoloured grade of each variety were tested for seed mycoflora by Standard blotter paper method and agar plate method. From the two methods, a total of 20 fungal species belonging to 16 fungal genera viz., Fusarium moniliforme, Fusarium solani, Fusarium semitectum, Fusarium equiseti, Curvularia lunata, Chaetomium sp., Alternaria padwickii, Tilletia sp., Rhizoctonia solani, Taeniolina sp., Aspergillus flavus, Sarocladium oryzae, Aspergillus niger, Bipolaris oryzae, Acremoniella sp., Pyricularia oryzae, Nigrospora sp., Pestalotia sp., Cladosporium sp. and Rhizopus sp. were detected. Pre-treatment was given to all the seven varieties of paddy and reduction of super','Paddy, blotter paper method, seed mycoflora, agar plate method, pre-treatment.','All the seed samples were tested for seed mycoflora by blotter paper method and agar plate method. From the two methods, a total of 20 fungal species belonging to 16 fungal genera viz., Fusarium moniliforme, Fusarium solani, Fusarium semitectum, Fusarium equiseti, Curvularia lunata, Chaetomium sp., Alternaria padwickii, Tilletia sp., Rhizoctonia solani, Taeniolina sp., Aspergillus flavus, Sarocladium oryzae, Aspergillus niger, Bipolaris oryzae, Acremoniella sp., Pyricularia oryzae, Nigrospora sp., Pestalotia sp., Cladosporium sp. and Rhizopus sp. were detected. After pre-treatment, there was reduction of superficial and saprophytic fungi growth along with pathogenic fungi in all the seven varieties. Thus, the study has shown that mycoflora associated with seed discolouration are major constraints in production of quality seeds of paddy. Therefore, the seed mycoflora are economically important since they affect the attributes of paddy seed and hence, research for the better seed heal','-','Singh, L.B., Ingle, R.W., Potdukhe, S.R., Pillai, T.S. and Wadaskar, R.M. (2021). Detection of Seed Borne Mycoflora Associated with Paddy Varieties of Eastern Vidarbha. Biological Forum â€“ An International Journal, 13(2): 507-515.'),(2943,'100','Biology of Red Flour Beetle Tribolium castaneum (Hbst.) (Coleoptera: Tenebrionidae) on Stored Sesame','B. Sundar, Vishwakarma Rashmi, P. Duraimurugan, Navya Matcha and K. Ramesh','71 Biology of Red Flour Beetle Tribolium castaneum Hbst.Coleoptera Tenebrionidae_ on Stored Sesame B. Sundar 903.pdf','',1,'Storage insects in sesame play a major role in the deterioration of harvested seeds causing both quantitative and qualitative losses. Red flour beetle, Tribolium castaneum is one of the major pests of sesame seed under storage conditions. Biology of the red flour beetle on three different coloured sesame varieties viz., white (cv. Swetha), black (cv. GT-10) and brown (cv. YLM-17) was studied in the laboratory. Among the varieties evaluated GT-10 was least preferred one recorded with longest incubation period (6.48 days), longest larval duration (37.22 days), and longest adult longevity (33.20 days). Whereas Swetha is highly preferred genotype recorded with shortest incubation period (4.70 days), shortest larval duration (32.83 days), and shortest adult longevity (22.74 days). The width of head capsule was recorded lowest on GT-10 at each moult 0.15, 0.17, 0.25, 0.31, 0.36 and 0.39 mm respectively. The mean observed and estimated progression factor was obtained to the tune of 1.223 and ','Tribolium castaneum, biology, morphometrics, varieties, storage, sesame seed.','In conclusion, studying the biology of insects to better understanding of how insects grow and develop has contributed greatly to their management. Among the three tested varieties, the egg, grub, pupa and adult period of Tribolium castaneum on white seeded variety of Swetha was observed to be the shortest, whereas the longer duration was on GT-10, which is black seeded.\r\nThis suggests that the GT-10 has become unsuitable for insect development and has evolved into a Tribolium castaneum resistant variety.\r\n','-','Sundar, B., Rashmi, V., Duraimurugan, P., Matcha, N. and Ramesh, K. (2021). Biology of Red Flour Beetle Tribolium castaneum (Hbst.) (Coleoptera: Tenebrionidae) on Stored Sesame. Biological Forum â€“ An International Journal, 13(2): 516-521.'),(2944,'100','Studies on Genetic Divergence in Chilli (Capsicum annuum L.) under Southern Telangana Region','Jogdhande Srinivas, K. Ravinder Reddy, P. Saidaiah, K. Anitha, S.R. Pandravada and M. Balram','72 Studies on Genetic Divergence in Chilli _Capsicum Annuum L._ under Southern Telangana Region Dr. J. SRINIVAS 972.pdf','',1,'Thirty genotypes were evaluated in Randomized Block Design with three replications in rabi seasons of the year 2016-17 at the experimental, field of Sri Konda Laxman Telangana State Horticultural University, Rajendranagar. Results indicated that in the year 30 genotypes were grouped into eleven highly divergent clusters. Some of genotypes were so divergent in all the character; hence each single genotype formed a separate cluster. Thus seven clusters viz., IV (EC-391088), V (IC-255958), VI (IC-255944), VIII (EC- 390033), IX (IC-208591), X (EC-399569), XI (IC-255916) were solitary with one genotype in each cluster. The two genotypes were, hence they have formed two separate clusters viz., II (LCA-999, LCA-620), VII (IC25913, LCA-625). The remaining two clusters were having maximum number of genotypes. Cluster II was biggest with 10 genotypes followed by Cluster III was found with 9 genotypes. The intra cluster D2 values ranged from 0.00 (Cluster VI, V, VI, VIII, IX, X and XI) to 139.55','Chilli, Genotypes, Genetic divergence, Clusters, Improvement.','On the basis of present investigation, we could conclude that, the selection of genotypes from Thus seven clusters viz., IV (EC-391088), V (IC-255958), VI (IC-255944), VIII (EC-390033), IX (IC-208591), X (EC-399569), XI (IC-255916). Can be utilized as potential parents and crossing between this genotypes results is high heterotic expression for high yield and its components. So the genotypes from above clusters may be including in hybridization programme for obtaining superior and desirable recombinants. Hence, it will be rewarding to bring improvement in chilli. ','-','Srinivas, J., Reddy, K.R., Saidaiah, P., Anitha, K., Pandravada, S.R. and Balram, M. (2021). Studies on Genetic Divergence in Chilli (Capsicum Annuum L.) under Southern Telangana Region. Biological Forum â€“ An International Journal, 13(2): 522-528.'),(2945,'100','UmTricho a liquid bioformulation of indigenous strain of Trichoderma harzianum effectively managed the tikka disease (Cercospora spp.) of groundnut, Arachis hypogea L. under the agroecological condition of Meghalaya','Pranab Dutta, Lipa Deb, Jyotim Gogoi, Madhusmita Mahanta, Arti Kumari, Alinaj Yasin and Anwesha Sharma','73 UmTricho a liquid bioformulation of indigenous strain of Trichoderma harzianum effectively managed the tikka disease _Cercospora spp._ of groundnut, Arachis hy.pdf','',1,'Groundnut (Arachis hypogea L., Fam: Fabaceae), an important annual leguminous and oilseed\r\ncrop grown in an area of 7.78 m ha with an average production and productivity of 7.79 m t and 990 kg ha-1\r\nrespectively. The crop is susceptible to many fungal diseases such as tikka, rust, charcoal rot and crown rot,\r\nof which tikka disease caused by Cercospora spp. is the most destructive disease claiming 10-50 % yield losses\r\naffecting pod yield and quality. The state of Meghalaya is considered as organic state by default. But there no\r\nrecommendation on organic management practices of the tikka disease of groundnut which is urgent need for\r\nthe state. In the present study, a field trial was conducted to evaluate the efficacy of UmTricho, a\r\nbioformulation developed from native strain of Trichoderma harzianum of Meghalaya against tikka leaf spot\r\ndisease of groundnut. Efficacy of UmTricho was compared in six different treatment combinations viz., T1-\r\nBiopriming of seeds (10 ml UmTricho in 10','Groundnut, Tikka disease, UmTricho, Plant growth promotion.','The present study showed encouraging results of\r\nUmTricho against tikka disease of groundnut and can\r\nbe used as a component of plant protection in organic\r\npackage and practices for cultivation of groundnut in\r\nagro-ecological zone of Meghalaya. UmTricho as seed\r\ntreatment (10 ml in 1 litre of water for per Kg seed) +\r\nsoil application with enriched compost (1 Kg compost\r\n+ 40 ml UmTricho) + 3 foliar sprays of enriched cow\r\ndung slurry (@ 100 ml in 10000 litres of water from 15\r\ndays after germination at 15 days interval) can reducetikka disease incidence. The devised technology can be\r\nfurther studied in pilot field trials in farmerâ€™s field, if\r\nfound effective can be transferred to farmers. Further\r\nwork on interaction of the biocontrol agents with other\r\nbotanical pesticides may be done for the synergistic\r\neffect of both the components for better management of\r\nplant diseases with enhanced plant growth and\r\nbiochemical parameters.','-','Dutta, P., Deb, L., Gogoi, J., Mahanta, M., Kumari, A., Yasin, A. and Sharma, A. (2021).\r\n Um Tricho a liquid bioformulation of indigenous strain of Trichoderma harzianum effectively managed the tikka disease\r\n(Cercospora spp.) of groundnut, Arachis h'),(2946,'100','Oviposition Responses of Helicoverpa armigera towards Different Chickpea Varieties as Influenced by Sowing Dates and Irrigation Levels under Field Condition','Yogendra Kumar Mishra, Amit Kumar Sharma, R. Shiv Ramakrishnan, Shobha Sondhia, A. K. Bhowmick, Deep Pahalwan and Yogita Gharde','74 Oviposition Responses of Helicoverpa armigera Towards Different Chickpea Varieties as Influenced by Sowing Dates and Irrigation Levels under Field Condition Yogendra Kumar Mishra 1034.pdf','',1,'Oviposition by H. armigera in different chickpea varieties as influenced by sowing dates and\r\nirrigation levels under field conditions at Research Farm, Breeding Seed Production-Soybean, College of\r\nAgriculture, Jawaharlal Nehru Krishi Vishwa Vidyalaya, Jabalpur (M.P.) during rabi season of 2019-20.\r\nWeekly observations were recorded on the number of H. armigera eggs per meter row length (mrl) at five\r\nrandomly selected places from the field emergence stage to the crop harvest from each plot. Sowing dates\r\nstudies revealed wide variation on ovipositional preference and crop sown on 15th November stands best with\r\nsignificantly lower mean oviposition by H. armigera (0.45 eggs/mrl). The oviposition by H. armigera\r\nsignificantly influenced by irrigation levels and lowest Mean oviposition by H. armigera was observed with\r\nirrigation at 35 DAS (0.89 eggs/mrl). Among varieties, significant lowest Mean oviposition by H. armigera was\r\nobserved in the JG14 chickpea variety (0.38 eggs/mrl). Sowi','Eggs of H. armigera, date of sowings, irrigation levels, and chickpea varieties.','In our research suggests that under late sown condition\r\nin chickpea, the incidence of pod borer is high as\r\ncompare to normal sown. However, the incidence of\r\npod borer was decreased by scheduling irrigation at 35\r\nDAS under normal and late sown condition. Varietal\r\nperformance revealed that JG 24 and JG 14 stands\r\nsuperior in terms of less oviposition by H. armigera\r\nexhibiting insect resistance trait over all the sowing\r\nenvironment. Hence Chickpea varieties JG 14 and JG\r\n24 will be recommended to the farmers for sowing\r\nunder both normal and late sown with one irrigation\r\ncondition due to maximum podding and less\r\noviposition by H. armigera in term of insect incidence','-','Mishra, Y.K., Sharma, A.K., Ramakrishnan, R.S. Sondhia, S., Bhowmick, A.K., Pahalwan, D. and\r\nGharde, Y. (2021). Oviposition Responses of Helicoverpa armigera Towards Different Chickpea Varieties as Influenced by\r\nSowing Dates and Irrigation Levels under '),(2947,'100','Studies on Factors Influencing Callus Induction in elite Groundnut (Arachis hypogaea) Cultivar TMV (Gn) 13','Feba Annie Mathew, Rajesh, S., Rajagopal, B. and Chandirakala, R.','75 Studies on Factors influencing callus Induction in elite Groundnut _Arachis hypogaea_ cultivar TMV _Gn_ 13 Dr. S. RAJESH 1013.pdf','',1,'Groundnut (Arachis hypogaea L.), a major food grain legumes is an important economic crop that yields vegetable oil and serves as a rich protein source. Crop improvement through modern biotechnological approaches necessitates establishment of cell cultures for multiple uses. Groundnut like other legumes are recalcitrant to tissue culture and any attempt in optimizing protocol for cell cultures is considered to be a boon for plant genetic manipulation. The present study was conducted to evaluate various factors influencing callus initiation for subsequent cell cultures establishment from various explants under in vitro condition in an elite groundnut cultivar TMV (Gn) 13. Leaf and DEC explants are considered as the best choice of explants for callus induction in TMV (Gn) 13 with callus induction frequency of 97.22% when cultured in MS medium supplemented with 5.0 mg l -1 2, 4-D. The effect of 2, 4-D alone to stimulate better callus induction in various explants of groundnut is demonstr','Auxin, callus, cell cultures, Arachis, Groundnut, tissue culture.','The present study has made efforts to optimize protocol for callus induction in groundnut. Leaf and DEC explants are considered as the best choice of explants for callus induction in TMV (Gn) 13 with callus induction frequency of 97.22 % when cultured in the MS medium supplemented with 5.0 mg l-1 2,4-D. The effect of 2,4-D alone to stimulate better callus induction in various explants of groundnut is demonstrated. Further, in vitro studies through indirect organogenesis can be attempted with various explants and hormonal combinations for successful plant regeneration in groundnut.','-','Mathew, F.A., Rajesh, S., Rajagopal, B. and Chandirakala, R. (2021). Studies on Factors influencing callus Induction in elite Groundnut (Arachis hypogaea) cultivar TMV (Gn) 13. Biological Forum â€“ An International Journal, 13(2): 540-545.'),(2948,'100','Studies on Acceptability, Chemical Composition and Cost Structure of Nutritious Quinoa Kheer','Praveen B.R., More D.R., Megha K.C., Bawachkar R.R. and Vennela V.R.','76 Studies on Acceptability, Chemical Composition and Cost Structure of Nutritious Quinoa Kheer Praveen B.R 1006.pdf','',1,'The aim of this study was to develop value added kheer using quinoa. Outer layer of quinoa contains antinutritional factors which imparts bitter taste to the final product. In order to reduce the antinutritional factors quinoa is treated with (2%) citric acid. Quinoa and rice was washed and soaked in luke warm water to reduce cooking time and to improve the colour, taste of the final product. Quinoa was blended in rice kheeer in the proportion of T0 (00:100), T1 (20:80), T2 (40:60), T3 (60:40), T4 (80:20) and T5 (100:00) was prepared. The product was conventially cooked and selected based on sensory evaluation and it was observed that T4 i.e 80:20 (Quinoa:Rice) combination found superior. Prepared kheer was then evaluated for nutritional composition. Selected sample T4 showed 14.70 per cent of carbohydrate, 3.57 per cent of protein, 3.38 per cent of fat and 0.15 per cent of fiber per 100g of kheer respectively with increased content of protein, fiber when compare to control rice kheer','Quinoa kheer, nutritional composition, sensory evaluation, techno-economic feasibility.','This it may be concluded from the present investigation of kheer prepared with 4 per cent quinoa, 1 per cent of rice and 8 per cent sugar found nutritionally superior and acceptable based on its sensorial quality. The addition of citric acid treated in case of quinoa, grinding the quinoa and rice improved the cooking qualities in terms of reducing cooking time, increased consistency and reducing the saponin (bitterness causing agent) content in final product. Therefore, utilization of quinoa would improve nutritional qualities of kheer with health benefits. The protein content of the organoleptically accepted final product T4 contained 3.56 percent in 100 grams of quinoa kheer which is good amount and helps the consumers to overcome protein energy malnutrition. Quinoa kheer contained good amount of minerals which improves the gut health. For the production of 1kg of kheer costs about Rs. 98.6 for organoleptically accepted product T4. ','-','Praveen B.R., More D.R., Megha K.C., Bawachkar R.R. and Vennela V.R. (2021). Studies on Acceptability, Chemical Composition and Cost Structure of Nutritious Quinoa Kheer. Biological Forum â€“ An International Journal, 13(2): 546-551.'),(2949,'100','The Effect of Plant Growth Hormones and Bio-fertilizers on Growth and Economics of Summer Sesame (Sesamum indicum L.)','Kadamandla Jerusha, Vikram Singh and Dhananjay Tiwari','77 The Effect of Plant Growth Hormones and Bio-fertilizers on Growth and Economics of Summer Sesame _Sesamum indicum L._ Kadamandla Jerusha 778.pdf','',1,'A field experiment was conducted during the Zaid season of 2020 at the experimental field of the Crop Research Farm, Department of Agronomy, Sam Higginbottom University of Technology and Sciences, Prayagraj, Uttar Pradesh, India to determine the â€œEffect of Plant growth hormones and Bio-fertilizers on Growth and yield of Sesame (Sesamum indicum L.)â€. The experiment consisted of 2 levels of two plant growth hormones 1. Gibberellic acid (50mg/l, 100mg/l) 2. Indole Acetic acid (50mg/l, 100mg/l) and two bio-fertilizers Azospiriluum and Azotobacter at 20g/kg seed. The experiment was carried out through a statistical design of Randomized Block Design (RBD) with three replications. Variety used was Gujarat till 4. Report of the study indicates that, among different levels of plant growth hormones and bio-fertilizers the application of 100 mg/l of GA3 to the Azotobacter treated plots produced significantly highest Leaf area (36.2cm2), Plant Dry weight (13.40g) at 60 DAS and Crop Growth Rate','Plant growth hormones, Bio-fertilizers, Gibberellic acid (GA3), Indole acetic Acid (IAA), Azospirillum, Azotobacter.','Among all treatments, T5 (GA3 at 100 mg/l + Azotobacter) was found to be the best by obtaining highest growth and also the better B: C ratio. Thus, Treatment T5 is more productive, when compared to other treatments and control.','-','Jerusha, K., Singh, V. and Tiwari, D. (2021). The Effect of Plant Growth Hormones and Bio-fertilizers on Growth and Economics of Summer Sesame (Sesamum indicum L.). Biological Forum â€“ An International Journal, 13(2): 552-556.'),(2950,'100','The Potential of Production of Meat Analogue by using Indian Legumes - A Review','A. Poshadri and V.S. Pawar','78 The Potential of Production of Meat Analogue by using Indian Legumes- A Review A. Poshadri 915.pdf','',1,'The excess consumption of resource-intensive foods, such as animal-based products is partly responsible for undesirable effects on human health and the environment. In order to lessen the exploitation of natural resources and animal husbandry, one important alternative is to reduce meat consumption by replacing or substituting plant-based meat analogues restructured meat binder or formed meat mimeticks. Processing of leguminous proteins into plant based meat analogues or alternatives are inevitable to meet consumer demands and building of resilience in food supply chain. Researchers from the academic institutions and FMCG sectors are actively exploring leguminous proteins to replace or substitute for animal meat sourced proteins. Legume proteins have a fairly well balanced amino acid profile, and shown high potential for substituting animal meat via formulating and developing of healthy, protein dense, reduced LDL levels, free of cholesterol, and nutritionally equivalent or greater tha','Legume proteins; meat analogue; soy protein; textured vegetable protein; meat alternatives.','A balanced blend of leguminous and cereal protein based products offer a well balanced diet for both vegetarians and traditional meat consumers. There is a huge growth and ample of opportunities for food researchers, startup companies, entrepreneurs and venture capitalists to explore new protein sources and innovations in production technologies to support rapidly evolving meat analogues market. Optimizing the textural related sensory attributes of plant based meat analogues are a main goal for innovative product new development and culinary applications. Tweaking the existing recipes, creative product formulations and use of innovative processing methodologies are the major steps in developing fibrous meat like quality attributes. The addition of a different kind of vegan based additives plays a key role in order to produce real meat quality attributes such as micro structured fibrous texture, water holding capacity of meat, mouth feel, after taste and flavor. There are numerous conce','-','Poshadri, A. and Pawar, V.S. (2021). The Potential of Production of Meat Analogue by using Indian Legumes- A Review. Biological Forum â€“ An International Journal, 13(2): 557-564.'),(2951,'100','Influence of Physicomorphic and Biochemical Resistance Attributing Characters of Shoot and Fruit on Yield in Brinjal Genotypes','Ch. Chinnabbai, S. Dayakar, A. Sujatha, P. Anil Kumar, S.K. Nafeez Umar and V. Sekhar','79 Influence of Physicomorphic and Biochemical Resistance Attributing Characters of Shoot and Fruit on Yield in Brinjal Genotypes Ch. Chinnabbai 981.pdf','',1,'Influence of physicomorphic and biochemical resistance attributing characters on brinjal fruit yield was investigated in sixty genotypes and three check cultivars during kharif 2017-18 at college of Horticulture, Venkataramannagudem to select the elite genotypes for crop improvement programme towards higher yield. The fruit yield in brinjal genotypes showed negative and highly significant correlation with shoot thickness (r = -0.8100), significantly high positive correlation with trichomes on leaf lamina (r = 0.8520), significantly high positive correlation with trichomes on shoot (r = 0.7530), non-significant negative correlation with plant height (r = -0.1730), number of branches (r = -0.1760) and plant spread (r =0.0530), fruit length (r = -0.0940), fruit diameter (-0.0700), non-significant positive correlation with pedicel length (r = 0.0600), highly significant positive correlation with calyx length (r = 0.5790) whereas phenol in shoot (r = 0.7870), fruit (r=0.8190), peroxidase i','Brinjal genotypes, yield, correlation, path analysis.','Influence of physicomorphic and biochemical resistance attributing characters on brinjal fruit yield was investigated in sixty genotypes and three check cultivars during kharif 2017-18 at college of Horticulture, Venkataramannagudem to select the elite genotypes for crop improvement programme towards higher yield. The fruit yield in brinjal genotypes showed negative and highly significant correlation with shoot thickness (r = -0.8100), significantly high positive correlation with trichomes on leaf lamina (r = 0.8520), significantly high positive correlation with trichomes on shoot (r = 0.7530), non-significant negative correlation with plant height (r = -0.1730), number of branches (r = -0.1760) and plant spread (r =0.0530), fruit length (r = -0.0940), fruit diameter (-0.0700), non-significant positive correlation with pedicel length (r = 0.0600), highly significant positive correlation with calyx length (r = 0.5790) whereas phenol in shoot (r = 0.7870), fruit (r=0.8190), peroxidase i','-','Chinnabbai, Ch., Dayakar, S., Sujatha, A., Kumar, P.A., Umar, S.K.N. and Sekhar, V. (2021). Influence of Physicomorphic and Biochemical Resistance Attributing Characters of Shoot and Fruit on Yield in Brinjal Genotypes. Biological Forum â€“ An Internation'),(2952,'100','Exploitation of Genetic Variability in Linseed','Shiva Kumar K., Rajanna B., Ajith Kumar K., Ananda N. and P.K. Singh','80 Exploitation of Genetic Variability in Linseed Shiva Kumar K 1010.pdf','',1,'The present experiment is undertaken to estimate the genetic variability in a set of 14 linseed genotypes. From ANOVA table it evidenced that significant variation for all the traits under study suggested existence of sufficient variability among themselves. PCV estimates were higher than GCV for all the character where as GCV estimates were higher than PCV for branch numbers and capsules numbers. For the traits, days to 50% flowering and days to maturity showed higher heritability due to major contribution of genotypic portion. Combined high heritability with high genetic advance was noticed for capsule number, branch number indicating these traits were under control of additive gene action. If selections were exercised based on phenotype would be effective for improvement of these traits','GCV, PCV, ANOVA. ','Dominance genetic variance with the predominance of additive type of gene action was noticed for seed yield, number of branches and number of capsules per plant. Hybridization and selections as per pedigree method would be beneficial for genetic improvement of these traits. ','-','Shiva Kumar K., Rajanna, B., Ajith Kumar K., Ananda N. and Singh, P.K. (2021). Exploitation of Genetic Variability in Linseed. Biological Forum â€“ An International Journal, 13(2): 573-575.'),(2953,'100','Six Generation Mean Analysis for yield and its Attributing Characters in Flax (Linum usitatissimum L.)','Rajanna B., Ajith Kumar K., Shiva Kumar K., Ananda N. and P.K. Singh','81 Six Generation Mean Analysis for yield and its Attributing Characters in Flax _Linum usitatissimum L._ Dr. Rajanna B 1020.pdf','',1,'Linseed varieties with increased yield and omega content are an important strategy to alleviate omega malnutrition. The choice of selection of breeding methods for genetic improvement of any crops is mainly dependent on the knowledge of type and relative amount of genetic component and the presence of epistatic interaction for different traits in the plant materials under investigations. Information on the type of gene action involved in the inheritance of a character is helpful in deciding the breeding procedures to be followed for crop improvement. The study was under taken to know the nature of gene action governing the characters under study. Generation mean analysis is one of the biometrical techniques that provide not only a valid estimate of gene effects (additive, dominance) but also an unambiguous test for presence or absence of epistasis that can help the breeders to decide the breeding programmes that suit for the improvement of traits being analyzed. In majority of the yiel','Generation means, linseed, gene action, epistasis, variance.','Dominance genetic variance noticed the major part of the genetic variance for the important yield components. The use of intermating of selects followed by visual selection in early segregating generations that would simultaneously exploit the gene effects has been suggested. Further, this approach is likely to break some undesirable linkages resulting in the establishment of rare and useful recombinants. The traits which have shown the additive and/or additive x additive can be improved by simple mass selection. If the more predominance of dominance x dominance gene effects exhibited by traits then, delay the selection in early segregating populations and it can also be exploited through heterosis breeding.','-','Rajanna, B., Ajith Kumar K., Shiva Kumar K., Ananda N. and Singh, P.K. (2021). Six Generation Mean Analysis for yield and its Attributing Characters in Flax (Linum usitatissimum L.). Biological Forum â€“ An International Journal, 13(2): 576-580.'),(2954,'99','Postural Analysis of Sedentary Activities using Ergonomics Methods and VICON\r\nMotion Capture System ','Ghinva Shah, Syed Amjad Ali, Shakeel Ahmed Shaikh and Saifullah Samo','30 Postural Analysis of Sedentary Activities using Ergonomics Methods and VICON Motion Capture System Dr.pdf','',1,'','','','',''),(2955,'100','Biology and Role of Plant biophysical Parameters in cardamom and castor for Resistance to Shoot and capsule borers, Conogethes sahyadriensis sp. nov. and Conogethes punctiferalis GuenÃ©e (Crambidae : Lepidoptera)','B. Doddabasappa, Mutthuraju, G.P. and A.K. Chakravarthy','82 Biology and Role of Plant biophysical Parameters in cardamom and castor for Resistance to Shoot and capsule borers, Conogethes sahyadriensis sp. nov. and Conoget.pdf','',1,'Investigations were conducted on the lepidopterous borers Conogethes sahyadriensis sp. nov.\r\nand Conogethes punctiferalis GuenÃ©e infesting cardamom and castor, respectively. For a long a period, the\r\nborer on cardamom and castor were considered as Conogethes punctiferalis only in 2018, the cardamom\r\nborer and castor borer were identified as different species. So, it became imperative to understand the\r\nbioecology of these two sympatric borer species occurring in the same or in adjacent cultivated habitats. On\r\nrespective host plants, the average fecundity was 56 eggs/female (C. sahyadriensis) compared to 38 eggs/\r\nfemale (C. punctiferalis) (n=8 pairs). The borer egg viability was 69.5% on cardamom compared to 66 % on\r\ncastor. The 5th instar larval weight of C. sahyadriensis was 73.5 mg compared to 65 mg of C. punctiferalis.\r\nPupal weight of C. sahyadriensis was 93.5 mg compared to 46 mg of C. punctiferalis. The castor borer\r\ncompleted the life cycle on an average in 34.50 days compare','Conogethes sahyadriensis, Conogethes punctiferalis, biophysical characters, Cardamom, Castor,\r\nBiology, Resistance, South India.','Biological studies on two Conogethes spp on\r\ncardamom and castor for the first have been brought out\r\nstriking differences. On respective hosts, the average\r\nfecundity was 38 eggs/female (castor) compared to 56\r\neggs/female (cardamom). The egg viability was 66 %\r\non castor compared to 69.5% on cardamom. The 5th\r\ninstar larval weight was 65 mg on castor compared to\r\n73.5 mg on cardamom. Pupal weight was 46 mg\r\ncompared to 93.5 mg on cardamom. The castor borer\r\ncompleted the life cycle on an average in 34.50 days on\r\ncastor compared to 39 days on cardamom. When\r\nConogethes reared on cardamom were implanted on\r\ncastor, larvae suffered cent per cent mortality and viceversa.\r\nAs the trichome number/cm2 (0 to 15), trichome\r\nlength (0 to 7.8 mm), capsules number/spike (31 to 43),\r\ncapsule size (1.24 to 2.21 cm) and shoot diameter (7.9\r\nto 9.8 mm) increased with the number of borer eggs on\r\ncastor types. This study has brought out striking\r\ndifferences in the preference of borer for biophysica','-','Doddabasappa, B., Mutthuraju, G.P. and Chakravarthy, A.K. (2021). Biology and Role of Plant\r\nbiophysical Parameters in cardamom and castor for Resistance to Shoot and capsule borers, Conogethes sahyadriensis sp. nov.\r\nand Conogethes punctiferalis GuenÃ©e '),(2956,'100','Evaluation of Newer Acaricides and biorationals against eriophyid mite, Aceria jasmini (Chann.) on Hadagali Jasmine','Hanumanthappa Shrihari, Prabhuraj A., Arunkumar Hosamani, Sushila Nadagouda and Amaresh Y.S.','83 Evaluation of Newer Acaricides and biorationals against eriophyid mite, Aceria jasmini _Chann.pdf','',1,'The jasmine having good economic importance and flowers are used in south India especially for making garlands, floral decoration of the wedding ceremony, for religious offerings. The flowers are also used for the production of perfumes and attars. Therefore, the present study was carried out to know the efficacy of newer acaricides and biorationals at Agricultural Extension Education centre, UAS, Raichur during the year 2017-18. Among the various acaricides and biorationals tested against eriophyid mite, the lowest per cent reduction of erenial growth of 54.11 was recorded in spiromecifen 240 SC at 1.0 ml per litre with highest flower yield of 6903.67 kg/ha followed by diafenthiuron 50 WP at 1.0 gm/l recorded 49.93 per cent reduction of erenial growth over control with flower yield of 6856.33 kg/ha. Which was followed by fenazaquin 10 EC at 1.0 ml/l, and fenpyroximate 5 EC at 1 ml/l. The application of neem cake at 200 kg/ac also proved better over spraying of commercial neem at 3.0 m','Jasmine, eriophyid mite, per cent reduction, erenial growth, flower yield.','In conclusion the experimental results with respect to the experiment conducted, among the various acaricides and biorationals tested against eriophyid mite, spiromecifen 240 SC at 1.0 ml per litre provided better control of mite with highest flower yield of 6903.67 kg/ ha followed by diafenthiuron 50 WP at 1.0 gm/l, fenazaquin 10 EC at 1.0 ml/l, and fenpyroximate 5 EC at 1 ml/l.','-','Shrihari, H., Prabhuraj A., Hosamani, A., Nadagouda, S. and Amaresh, Y.S. (2021). Evaluation of Newer Acaricides and biorationals against eriophyid mite, Aceria jasmini (Chann.) on Hadagali Jasmine. Biological Forum â€“ An International Journal, 13(2): 59'),(2957,'97','First Report of Square Spotted Gecko, Hemidactylus gracilis Blanford, 1870 (Squamata: Sauria: Gekkonidae) from Bhandara District Maharashtra, India','Vivek Bawankule , Sudhir Bhandarkar*, Gopal Paliwal','11_JNBR_10_1__2021.pdf','',1,'','','','',''),(2958,'97','Nestling Growth and Development of Himalayan bulbul, (Pycnonotus leucogenys) in Udhampur District, Jammu and Kashmir (UT), India','Brinder Kumar, Kewal Kumar','12_JNBR_10_1__2021.pdf','',1,'','','','',''),(2959,'92','Pollen viability and Pollen Germination Studies in Low Chill Peach [Prunus persica (L.) Batsch] Cultivars in the Subtropics of North-West Himalayas','Vikas Kumar Sharma, Manika Goswami, Som Dev Sharma and Kaushal Attri','107 Pollen viability and Pollen Germination Studies in Low Chill Peach [Prunus persica _L.pdf','',1,'Pollen studies in Peach (Prunus persica (L.) Batsch) were carried out at Fruit Research Farm of College of Horticulture and Forestry Neri, Hamirpur, Himachal Pradesh during 2018 -2020 to assess the viability and germination of pollen of six cultivars (Pratap, Earligrande, Flordaprince, Shan-e-Punjab, Glohaven, Royal Paradelux ) of Peach. The aim of the study was to find the compatibility behaviour of the cultivars which will be helpful for the breeders in deciding the parental combinations where hybridization can be achieved successfully and to have an understanding of performance of cultivars as pollinizers. Pollen viability of the peach germplasm was determined using 2% acetocarmine while germination studies were conducted with different sucrose concentrations (10%, 15% and 20%) and boric acid (50 ppm, 100ppm, 150ppm). Highest pollen viability was recorded in Flordaprince (97.78 %). In general, most of the cultivars showed maximum germination of fresh pollen with 10 per cent sucrose ','Peach, pollen viability, germination, acetocarmine, tricolporate','In this experiment on pollen viability and pollen germination, different peach cultivars exhibited good results with respect to viability and germination of their pollen. Hence, it can be concluded that breeders should include these low chill varieties which can perform better in hybridization studies. The pollen viability and germination was found best in cultivars Floraprince and Earligrande which shows that these cultivars can act as pollinizers for pollination of commercially growing cultivars. The results indicate that varieties Earligrande and Flordaprince are the best performing varieties and can be utilized as male parents in the cross combinations in various breeding programmes. These studies have demonstrated the suitability of best performing varieties in hybridization and to understand the compatibility behavior of cultivars under study.','-','Sharma, V.K., Goswami, M., Sharma, S.D. and Attri, K. (2021). Pollen viability and Pollen Germination Studies in Low Chill Peach [Prunus persica (L.) Batsch] Cultivars in the Subtropics of North-West Himalayas. Biological Forum â€“ An International Journa'),(2960,'100','Correlation and Path Analysis in Ajwain (Trachyspermum ammi L.)','Chaitanya K., Narayanapur V.B., Y. C. Vishwanath and Sarvamangala C.','84 Correlation and Path Analysis in Ajwain _Trachyspermum ammi L._-Chaitanya K 784.pdf','',1,'Ajwain is an aromatic seed spice which is cultivated mainly for its seed, herb and volatile oil. The narrow genetic base and allogamy are the major challenges in the crop improvement of ajwain. The study on the relationship between yield and its components will improve the efficiency of breeding programs by determining appropriate selection criteria. An investigation was carried out in 16 genotypes of ajwain to study the association among yield components and their direct and indirect effects on seed yield. Positive correlations were observed between seed yield per plant with number of umbels per plant (0.975), harvest index (0.882), number of branches (0.623), test weight (0.531), number of flowers per umbel (0.511) and number of seeds per umbel (0.457). Genotypic path coefficient analysis indicated that plant height at 150 DAS, days to 50 per cent flowering, number of flowers per umbel, number of umbellate per umbel, harvest index and test weight had positive direct effect on seed yi','Ajwain, Trachyspermum ammi, genotypes, umbels, umbellate.','Genotypic correlation analysis indicated that seed yield per plant had highly significant and positive association with the number of branches per plant, number of flowers per umbel, number of umbels per plant, number of seeds per umbel, harvest index and test weight. Genotypic path coefficient analysis indicated that plant height at 150 DAS, days to 50 per cent flowering, number of flowers per umbel, number of umbellate per umbel, harvest index, and test weight had positive direct effect on seed yield of ajwain. The positively associated characters can be used for crop improvement programme in future.','-','Chaitanya, K., Narayanapur, V.B., Vishwanath, Y.C. and Sarvamangala, C. (2021). Correlation and Path Analysis in Ajwain (Trachyspermum ammi L.). Biological Forum â€“ An International Journal, 13(2): 600-605.'),(2961,'100','What Regulates Soil Organic Carbon and Total Nitrogen in Agrifarms ?','Priyadarshani Pathak and A.S. Reddy','85 What Regulates Soil Organic Carbon and Total Nitrogen in Agrifarms -PRIYADARSHANI PATHAK 987.pdf','',1,'Various factors such as meteorological conditions, land use history, plant functional type, and management approaches can have a substantial impact on carbon and nitrogen dynamics in agro ecosystems. This study highlights how different land use patterns and crop management approaches affect the depth-wise distribution of soil organic carbon (SOC) and total nitrogen (TN) in agricultural lands. The investigation was place on three distinct agricultural farms in Anand, Gujarat. Three different types of selected land use patterns were viz. i) Wheat-pearl millet farm (seasonal cropping with one year crop rotation) ii) Banana farm (seasonal cropping with two years crop rotation) and iii) Amla orchard (perennial cropping standing for last fifteen years). The data generated through the present study suggest that plant functional type significantly alters the vertical distribution of SOC and TN. Though SOC at upper layer may be affected by chemical fertilizers and tilling process, but below 20 ','Sequestration, Soil organic carbon, Soil profile, Total nitrogen, Vertical distribution.','The current study shows that composite interactions of combined soil management practices (e.g., degree of tillage, crop plant change, and fertilizer input) affect distinct qualitative and quantitative changes in SOC and TN availability in the soil profile. Relative distribution of SOC (%) at lower depth was highest in amla orchard, intermediate in banana farm, and it was lowest in pearl millet farm. These recorded data suggest that nutrient utilization by the agricultural crops; root distributions and frequency of disturbance affect the vertical distribution of SOC with depth. As a result of these findings, we can conclude that plant deep root distribution patterns leave distinct impressions on the distribution patterns of soil organic carbon and total nitrogen with depth due to changes in allocation. Thus, there is a great scope for better agricultural practices for efficient use of the whole soil profile such as use of cultivars with deeper and improved root systems. Management pra','-','Pathak, P. and Reddy, A.S. (2021). What Regulates Soil Organic Carbon and Total Nitrogen in Agrifarms ? Biological Forum â€“ An International Journal, 13(2): 606-614.'),(2962,'100','Evaluation of Different Doses of Indole-3-Butyric Acid (IBA) and Rooting Media on the Vegetative Growth Parameters of Apple Clonal Rootstocks','Sachin H.R., Nowsheen Nazir, Aroosa Kalil, Shemoo Nisar and Shaila Din','86 Evaluation of Different Doses of Indole-3-Butyric Acid _IBA_ and Rooting Media on the Vegetative Growth Parameters of Apple Clonal Rootstocks-Shaila Din.pdf','',1,'Apple is one of the most important temperate fruit crop grown throughout the world. The high-density planting system (HDP) is now being conceived as an alternative production system having a potential for improving productivity, increasing yield efficiency, reducing input cost, minimizing risks and maximizing returns. Clonal rootstocks used in high density plantations (like M9 T337, M9 T339, MM 111, MM 106 and so on) have the benefit of producing uniform, precocious, dwarfing trees with simpler canopies which ultimately result in greater productive orchards. For propagating these rootstocks in large number and in lesser space hardwood cuttings are used. Rooting percentage of these is however poor, thus to obtain higher percentage of rooted cuttings the use of root promoting growth regulators and appropriate rooting media is essential. So in order to find best combination of rooting media and IBA concentration for propagation of apple rootstocks, an experiment was conducted in the nurse','vermiculite, perlite, sprouting, survival percentage.','From the present investigation, it can be concluded that rooting capacity changes with genotype, rooting media, growth hormone concentration, etc. Moreover the hardwood cuttings of MM106 clonal rootstock with treatment combination of G2 (IBA: 3000ppm) and M3 (sand + vermicompost + perlite) (1:1:1) were superior to obtain higher survival of superior rootstock cuttings. These result can be utilized to create a convention for generation of quality planting material of apple clonal rootstocks through cuttings. Further research on the rooting of these cuttings need to be done using different media and different harmone concentrations. Also development of protocols for in vitro rooting of cuttings, scion propagation protocols and also in vitro-grafting (micro grafting) for the production of large scale disease free planting materials need to be done','-','Sachin H.R., Nazir, N., Kalil, A., Nisar, S. and Din, S. (2021). Evaluation of Different Doses of Indole-3-Butyric Acid (IBA) and Rooting Media on the Vegetative Growth Parameters of Apple Clonal Rootstocks. Biological Forum â€“ An International Journal, '),(2963,'100','Standardization of DNA Extraction protocols in underexploited Cherry Tomato (Solanum lycopersicum L. var. cerasiforme) Genotypes of North East India','Naorem Bidyaleima Chanu, P. Sarma, Chandra Deo, B.N. Hazarika, Amit Kumar Singh and Md Ramjan','87 Standardization of DNA Extraction protocols in underexploited Cherry Tomato _Solanum lycopersicum L. var. cerasiforme_ Genotypes of North East India B N Hazarika 971.pdf','',1,'Extraction of good quality genomic DNA is mandatory for carrying out crop improvement programme using molecular approaches. Isolation of good quality and quantity of plant genomic DNA is the key challenge due to often contamination with large amount of polysaccharides, polyphenols and secondary metabolites. In our present study, we performed DNA isolation from five native cherry tomato genotype inclusive and exclusive of liquid nitrogen using modified Doyle & Doyle method and CTAB method. Quality of the isolated DNA was determined by horizontal agarose gel electrophoresis using 1% (CTAB) and 0.8% (Doyle & Doyle) agarose in 1X TE buffer at constant voltage of 80V. Purity of extracted DNA was determined by A260/A280 ratio and observed that CTAB with liquid nitrogen (1.62-1.70 and 472-955 ng/Âµl) and Doyle & Doyle method without liquid nitrogen (1.80-1.95 and 632-1200 ng/Âµl) yielded PCR amenable DNA. However, Doyle & Doyle method without liquid nitrogen yield the best quality and quantit','cherry tomato, CTAB, Doyle & Doyle method, DNA isolation, liquid nitrogen, standardization.','From the present study, standardization of DNA isolation with high quality genomic DNA amenable for PCR and enzymatic studies was executed from the four different methods. Among the methods used Doyle and Doyle W/liquid nitrogen prove to be inexpensive, simple in operation, produces good amount of high quality DNA for molecular studies. However, CTAB method supplied with liquid nitrogen produces comparable yield and quality of DNA to that of Doyle and Doyle W/liquid nitrogen method. Under critical observation of concentration and contamination by proteins or polyphenols in the isolated DNA, Doyle and Doyle W/ liquid nitrogen produces high purity genomic DNA with good yield amenable for several molecular PCR studies. Therefore, this method meets the objective of the study hence, it can be employed for isolating DNA in ill-equipped laboratories remotely present in corners of the country. ','-','Chanu, N.B., Sarma, P., Deo, C., Hazarika, B.N., Singh, A.K. and Md Ramjan (2021). Standardization of DNA Extraction protocols in underexploited Cherry Tomato (Solanum lycopersicum L. var. cerasiforme) Genotypes of North East India. Biological Forum â€“ A'),(2966,'100','Performance of Cowpea variety TPTC 29 in Western mandals of Chittoor dt.','Sahaja Deva, M. Mallikarjun, Prasanna lakshmi Ravuri and M. Reddi Kumar','88 Performance of Cowpea variety TPTC 29 in Western mandals of Chittoor dt. Sahaja Deva 997.pdf','',1,'In Chittoor dt, Cowpea has been grown in an area of 200 ha. But farmers are growing local non-descriptive varieties which are highly susceptible to pests and diseases and also pod and seed size are smaller which is reducing market value and also increasing cost of cultivation. In order to overcome these problems a new variety of Cowpea TPTC 29 (Tirupati Cowpea 1), released in the year 2017 by RARS, Tirupati was introduced in the district by Krishi Vigyan Kendra Kalikiri by conducting On Farm Trials and Front Line Demonstrations in farmers fields. This variety matures in 80-90 days, not sensitive to light. It is used as vegetable and also for seed purpose because of its long pod and bold seed. It has yield potential of 1000-1100 kg/ha. KVK, Kalikiri assessed the performance of TPTC 29 over Meghana in Front Line Demonstrations from 2018-19 to 2020-21. Yield attributes and yield are higher in TPTC 29 compared to Meghana. Yield of TPTC 29 and Meghana were 9.0 q ha-1 and 7.7 q ha-1 respecti','Cowpea, Yield, Economics.','Local variety Meghana is highly susceptible to pests and diseases which increased the cost of cultivation and also fetched less market value because of its smaller seed and pod size. TPTC 29 performed well compared to Meghana. Pod length, pod weight, seed size, seed weight of TPTC 29 are higher than Meghana which resulted in higher yield compared to Meghana variety which is locally grown by farmers. In future this variety can spread in the entire state more rapidly. ','-','Deva, S., Mallikarjun, M., Ravuri, P.L. and Kumar, M.R. (2021). Performance of Cowpea variety TPTC 29 in Western mandals of Chittoor dt. Biological Forum â€“ An International Journal, 13(2): 629-632.'),(2967,'100','Assessment of Optimum Dose and Source of Sulphur for Getting Improved Yield, Quality and Nutrient Uptake in Sugarcane','B. Asha Jyothi, T. Sujatha and K. Subhash Chandra Bose','89 Assessment of Optimum Dose and Source of Sulphur for Getting Improved Yield, Quality and Nutrient Uptake in Sugarcane B. Asha Jyothi 978.pdf','',1,'Sulphur plays an important role in the plantâ€™s metabolism, and required for amino acids, proteins and photosynthesis. The intensification of agriculture with high yielding crop varieties and multiple cropping coupled with the use of high analysis sulphur free fertilisers along with restricted use of organic manures have accrued in depletion of the soil sulphur reserve. The crops which produce higher biomass and the quality such as sugarcane removes higher amount of sulphur from soil which necessitates the replenishment. Therefore, A field experiment was conducted at sugarcane Research Station, Vuyyuru to know the optimum dose and proper source of sulphur for sugarcane plant crop. Three levels of sulphur viz; 30, 60 and 90 kg/ha along with recommended doses of nitrogen, phosphorus and potassium were applied through two sources such as gypsum and elemental sulphur. These were tested against no sulphur treatment. Thus seven treatments were replicated thrice in RBD design with the sugarc','Sulphur, gypsum, elemental sulphur, sugarcane, cane yield, CCS yield, juice sucrose, nutrient uptake.','Finally to summarise, the shoot population at different stages of crop growth, cane yield, CCS yield, quality, nutrient uptake and nutrient availability in post harvest soils were increased with increase in the dose of sulphur application from no sulphur to 90 kg/ha. Among the sources, gypsum recorded highest yields, quality and nutrient uptake and elemental sulphur was on par with it. However, gypsum is economical in use than elemental sulphur. Hence, it can be concluded that 90 kg sulphur per hectare is the optimum dose and gypsum is the better source for sugarcane plant crop for getting the improved cane, CCS yields, quality, nutrient uptake and nutrient availability of nitrogen, phosphorus and potassium in post harvest soils','-','Asha Jyothi, B., Sujatha, T. and Bose, K.S.C. (2021). Assessment of Optimum Dose and Source of Sulphur for Getting Improved Yield, Quality and Nutrient Uptake in Sugarcane. Biological Forum â€“ An International Journal, 13(2): 633-636.'),(2968,'100','Seed Enhancement Technique to Alleviate the Effect of Salinity Stress in Okra (Abelmoschus esculentus)','M. Sanjay, A.K. Chaurasia, Vikram Singh and G. Varun','90 Seed Enhancement Technique to Alleviate the Effect of Salinity Stress in Okra _Abelmoschus esculentus_ M. Sanjay 1046.pdf','',1,'Study was conducted to evaluate the effect of seed enhancement technique on seed quality parameters under salt stress condition. Salt stress is the major abiotic stress which cause the reduction in the growth and yield of agriculture crops. Salt stress can be induced due to in appropriate use of fertilizers, low precipitation, lack of proper irrigation & drainage system and irrigating with salt water. In this laboratory experiment, factorial combination of 3 different salt stress conditions induced by using NaCl concentration (0, 100mM and 150 mM) viz S0, S1 and S2.Okra seed var. Arka Anamika were primed with treatments consists of Panchagavya 3% (T1) and 5%(T2), Coconut water 8%(T3) and 12%(T4), Neem leaf extract 3% (T5) and 5%(T6), KNO3 (3g/litre) (T7), KCL (3g/litre) (T8) for 8 hours, with one untreated dry seed serve as control(T0) were laid out in CRD with 4 replications. Data collected on germination percentage, root length, shoot length, seedling length, fresh weight, dry weight','Germination, okra, potassium priming, salt-stress, seed vigour, stress adaptability, seed enhancement, seed quality parameters.','Seed priming is a seed enhancement technique which is low cost, easy technique with minimal or no risk has improved seed quality parameters even under salinity stress. From this present investigation, any seed priming treatment have shown significantly better performance than control in all salinity stress levels. Among the seed priming treatment, seeds primed with KNO3 3gl-1(T7) have shown superior performance followed by KCL3gl-1(T8) in all the seed quality parameters under all salinity stress level. Therefore, seed priming with KNO3 3gl-1(T7) is the best seed enhancement technique to alleviate the effect of salinity stress in okra (Abelmoschus esculentus). These results are obtained in a controlled atmosphere of germination chamber, so it needs to get further investigated in field trails. If the results from the field trails will give clarity to the enhancement of seed under salinity stress. After that this method can be utilized for commercial cultivation by farmers.','-','Sanjay, M., Chaurasia, A.K., Singh, V. and Varun, G. (2021). Seed Enhancement Technique to Alleviate the Effect of Salinity Stress in Okra (Abelmoschus esculentus). Biological Forum â€“ An International Journal, 13(2): 637-641.'),(2969,'100','Effects of Probiotics Supplementation on Growth Performance of Japanese quail (Coturnix coturnix japonica)','C. Pandian, S. Ezhil Valavan, A. Sundaresan and A.V. Omprakash','91 Effects of Probiotics Supplementation on Growth Performance of Japanese quail _Coturnix coturnix japonica_ C. Pandian 917.pdf','',1,'Japanese quail is one of the popular livestock for being used as animal protein by the society. Farmers use the antibiotics as a feed additive as a growth promoter in a small amount which can improve feed efficiency. The overuse of antibiotics may be harmful, which can cause resistance to pathogenic microorganisms and residues in meat and eggs. Probiotics are non-pathogenic microorganisms which provide health benefits Rahayu and Purwandhani (2007). With this view, this study was carried out to assess the effects of supplementation of probiotics (Probeads ECÂ®) on growth traits in Japanese quail. A total of 240 Nandanam quail III day old chicks were weighed individually, then randomly assigned to two treatment groups of 120 chicks each. There were 24 chicks per replicate and five replicate per treatment group. A total of 96 Probeads ECÂ®/replicate/days were given to the treatment groups, and empty beads (without probiotics) were given to the control groups, up to 5 weeks. Weekly body we','Growth performance, Japanese quail, Probiotic Supplementation.','The above study concluded that, supplementation of Probeads ECÂ®had improved the body weight and body weight gain in Nandanam quail III. Similarly, supplementation of probeads on Nandanam quail III showed less feed consumption, better feed efficiency and livability than control group. ','-','Pandian, C., Valavan, S. E., Sundaresan, A. and Omprakash, A.V. (2021). Effects of Probiotics Supplementation on Growth Performance of Japanese quail (Coturnix coturnix japonica). Biological Forum â€“ An International Journal, 13(2): 642-645.'),(2970,'100','Impact of Continuous Application of Fertilizer and Organic Manure on Soil Physical Properties of a Vertisol in Central India','Jyoti Bangre, A. K. Dwivedi, M. Mohanty, Subhash, Shish Ram Jakhar and Nishant K. Sinha','92 Impact of Continuous Application of Fertilizer and Organic Manure on Soil Physical Properties of a Vertisol in Central India Shish Ram Jakhar 1007.pdf','',1,'The field experiment was conducted during rabi season during 2017-18 and 2018-19 at the AICRP-LTFE project of Research Farm, College of Agriculture, Jawaharlal Nehru Krishi Vishwa Vidyalaya, Jabalpur, India chosen for this study. The impact of continuous application of fertilizer and organic manure on physical properties of a Vertisol. The experiment was conducted in a randomized block design with ten treatments in four replications. The treatments viz., 50% NPK, 100% NPK, 150% NPK, 100% NPK+Hand weeding, 100% NPK+Zn, 100% NP, 100% N, 100% NPK+FYM, 100% NPK-S and Control. The response of various treatment on physical properties of soil at harvest of wheat crop were studied. The representative soil samples were collected at crop harvest from surface soil (0-15 cm) depth and analysed for soil bulk density, soil moisture content (0.33 and 15 bar), mean weight diameter and water stable aggregates. The results revealed that, the soil water retention at 0.33 and 15bar, MWD and WSA were signi','continuous fertilizer application, bulk density, soil aggregation, Vertisol, soil moisture retention','The field experiment was conducted during rabi season during 2017-18 and 2018-19 at the AICRP-LTFE project of Research Farm, College of Agriculture, Jawaharlal Nehru Krishi Vishwa Vidyalaya, Jabalpur, India chosen for this study. The impact of continuous application of fertilizer and organic manure on physical properties of a Vertisol. The experiment was conducted in a randomized block design with ten treatments in four replications. The treatments viz., 50% NPK, 100% NPK, 150% NPK, 100% NPK+Hand weeding, 100% NPK+Zn, 100% NP, 100% N, 100% NPK+FYM, 100% NPK-S and Control. The response of various treatment on physical properties of soil at harvest of wheat crop were studied. The representative soil samples were collected at crop harvest from surface soil (0-15 cm) depth and analysed for soil bulk density, soil moisture content (0.33 and 15 bar), mean weight diameter and water stable aggregates. The results revealed that, the soil water retention at 0.33 and 15bar, MWD and WSA were signi','-','Bangre, J., Dwivedi, A.K., Mohanty, M., Subhash, Jakhar, S.R. and Sinha, N.K. (2021). Impact of Continuous Application of Fertilizer and Organic Manure on Soil Physical Properties of a Vertisol in Central India. Biological Forum â€“ An International Jour'),(2971,'100','Assessment of Genetic Variability Parameters for Yield and its Components in Chickpea (Cicer arietinum L.)','Ashish Gautam, R.K. Panwar, S.K. Verma, Anju Arora, Amit Kumar Gaur and Charupriya Chauhan','93 Assessment of Genetic Variability Parameters for Yield and its Components in Chickpea _Cicer arietinum L._ Ashish Gautam 1035.pdf','',1,'An investigation consisted of 225 chickpea genotypes along with 5 checks viz., PG-5, PG-3, H208, DCP-92-3 and GL10006 was conducted during the rabi season of year 2017-18 at N.E.B., C.R.C., GBPUA & T, Pantnagar, Uttarakhand. The objective of present study was to estimate magnitude of different parameters of genetic variability for yield and its attributes. The observations were recorded for thirteen different yield and its contributing characters and the obtained results indicated that in general the phenotypic coefficient of variance was found to be higher as compared to genotypic coefficient of variance for all studied traits. High heritability along with high genetic advance (% mean) was obtained for characters viz., number of primary branches/plant (PB), number of secondary branches/plant (SB), first pod height (FPH), number of pods per plant (PPP), number of seed per pod (SPP), 100 seed weight (SW), biological yield (BY) and seed yield (Yield).Thus, the high heritability coupled w','Chickpea, variability parameters, heritability, genetic advance.','The presence of genetic variability is considered important criteria for crop improvement. Based on the findings of this study, it is concluded that a high variability estimates was observed for all studied traits. For all studied characters, the PCV was larger than GCV, showing that the environment had an impact on expression of these characters. High heritability coupled with high GA (% mean) was observed for PB, SB, FPH, PPP, SPP, SW, BY and Yield. The high heritability coupled with high genetic advance indicated that these characters can be improved upon by selection since they were under control of additive gene effect. Therefore, it is important to interpret expected genetic advance in relation to both genetic variability and heritability for deciding the possibilities of improvement through selection.','-','Gautam, A., Panwar, R.K., Verma, S.K., Arora, A., Gaur, A.K. and Chauhan, C. (2021). Assessment of Genetic Variability Parameters for Yield and its Components in Chickpea (Cicer arietinum L.). Biological Forum â€“ An International Journal, 13(2): 651-655'),(2972,'92','Integrated Management of Wheat Spot Blotch caused by Bipolaris sorokiniana (Sacc.) Shoem.','Ashwini R. and P.V. Patil','108 Integrated Management of Wheat Spot Blotch caused by Bipolaris sorokiniana _Sacc._ Shoem.pdf','',1,'Wheat the versatile cereal crop has attained a premier position in the world for its unique consumable protein i.e., gluten, which is vital for bread making properties of wheat flour, along with the straw which is a major source of nutritious feed for cattles. Wheat spot blotch caused by Bipolaris sorokiniana is an important disease. In recent days, triazole group of fungicides are used for managing the spot blotch disease of wheat but continuous use of triazole compounds may lead to development of resistance by the pathogen. Hence an integrated approaches using effective fungicide, commercially available botanical, bioagent and ITK will reduce risk of resistance development. Results of field experiment revealed that among the nine treatments imposed, treatment involving hexaconazole @ 0.1% âˆ’hexaconazole@0.1% has recorded lowest percent disease index (13.40%) and highest grain yield (13.33 q haâ€“1), 1000 grain weight (40.65 g), biomass (8.33 t haâ€“1) and highest benefit: cost ratio','Wheat, spot blotch, Bipolaris sorokiniana, fungicides, bioagents, botanicals, ITKs, spray schedules.','Wheat the versatile cereal crop has attained a premier position in the world for its unique consumable protein i.e., gluten, which is vital for bread making properties of wheat flour, along with the straw which is a major source of nutritious feed for cattles. Wheat spot blotch caused by Bipolaris sorokiniana is an important disease. In recent days, triazole group of fungicides are used for managing the spot blotch disease of wheat but continuous use of triazole compounds may lead to development of resistance by the pathogen. Hence an integrated approaches using effective fungicide, commercially available botanical, bioagent and ITK will reduce risk of resistance development. Results of field experiment revealed that among the nine treatments imposed, treatment involving hexaconazole @ 0.1% âˆ’hexaconazole@0.1% has recorded lowest percent disease index (13.40%) and highest grain yield (13.33 q haâ€“1), 1000 grain weight (40.65 g), biomass (8.33 t haâ€“1) and highest benefit: cost ratio','-','Ashwini R. and Pati, P.V. (2021). Integrated Management of Wheat Spot Blotch caused by Bipolaris sorokiniana (Sacc.) Shoem. Biological Forum â€“ An International Journal, 13(1): 751-755.'),(2973,'100','Effect of Organic Sources of Nutrient on Quality Traits, Soil Nutrient Status and Economics of Cluster Bean (Cyamopsis tetragonoloba L.)','J.H. Brahmbhatt, S.K. Acharya*, Mukesh Kumar, Sanjay Prajapati and D.L. Parmar','94 Effect of Organic Sources of Nutrient on Quality Traits, Soil Nutrient Status and Economics of Cluster Bean _Cyamopsis tetragonoloba L._ S. K. Acharya 999.pdf','',1,'A field experiment was carried out on Pusa Navbahar variety of cluster bean during summer season of 2019 at College farm, College of Horticulture, Sardarkrushinagar Dantiwada Agricultural University, Jagudan, Dist. Mehsana, Gujarat, India. Chemical based farming is very common practice among growers which has very serious effect on human health. Overcome the ill effect of hazardous farming, present experiment has been under taken with sixteen treatments having the various combinations of organic sources of nutrients (FYM, vermicompost and neem cake) along with RDF (20:40: 00 kg/ha NPK) as a control. Treatments were replicated thrice in a randomized block design. Analysis of variance showed differences among different treatments for quality traits and significant variations for soil nutrient status (available N, P2O5 & K2O) as well as economics of the treatments. However, treatment T6 [75% N (15 kg/ha) through FYM + Rhizobium + PSB + KSM] has significant influences on available nitroge','Organic sources, Cyamopsis tetragonoloba L., Soil nutrient status, economics, B:C ratio etc.','It could be concluded that for harnessing maximum green pod length, quality traits, soil nutrient status (N, P2O5 & K2O) and economic return as well as benefit cost ratio of cluster bean with the application of 75% N through FYM (15 kg per ha) and Rhizobium, PSB & KSM each @ 2.5 litre/hectare is beneficial','-','Brahmbhatt, J.H., Acharya, S.K., Kumar, M., Prajapati, S. and Parmar, D.L. (2021). Effect of Organic Sources of Nutrient on Quality Traits, Soil Nutrient Status and Economics of Cluster Bean (Cyamopsis tetragonoloba L.). Biological Forum â€“ An Internati'),(2974,'100','Effect of Addition of quinoa Flour on Cooking and Sensorial qualities of Noodles','Gaikwad K.K., Pawar V.S., Pawar G.S. and Shingote A.B.','95 Effect of Addition of quinoa Flour on Cooking and Sensorial qualities of Noodles Gaikwad K.K. 1077.pdf','',1,'The objective of this study was to explore the possibility of adding quinoa flour in the preparation of noodles. Quinoa flour was added at 20, 40, 60 and 80g in different proportion of refined wheat flour. Noodles were prepared by cold extrusion process and were studied for its sensory, cooking and colour qualities. The results indicated that quinoa flour can be incorporated in refined wheat flour up to 40g per 60g of wheat flour without significant changes in its qualities. The sensory score for colour of quinoa flour noodles was preferred the most. Cooking weight and water absorption were found to be increased with increase in level of quinoa flour in noodles and also increase in cooking loss with an increase in the level of quinoa flour incorporation in noodles. The studies on color estimation revealed that red and yellow color of the product was slightly increased during cooking of noodles.','Quinoa, Noodles, Cooking qualities, Sensory, Colour.','On the basis of obtained results, it could be concluded that increasing concentration of quinoa flour in noodles increases cooking losses while, cooking time, cooked weight and water uptake increased with increasing concentration of quinoa flour in noodles. As per the results of colour analysis of raw and cooked noodles it shows slight decrease in L* value and increase in a* and b* value after cooking. Therefore, incorporation of quinoa flour in noodles results in good sensorial, cooking and colour characteristics.','-','Gaikwad K.K., Pawar, V.S., Pawar, G.S. and Shingote, A.B. (2021). Effect of Addition of quinoa Flour on Cooking and Sensorial qualities of Noodles. Biological Forum â€“ An International Journal, 13(2): 660-665.'),(2975,'100','Evaluation of Diversity Among Tree and Leaf characteristics of Ambri apple (Malus Ã— domestica Borkh.) in Jammu region','Koushalya Devi, Kiran Kour, Parshant Bakshi, B.C. Sharma, Manmohan Sharma and B.K. Sinha','96 Evaluation of Diversity Among Tree and Leaf characteristics of Ambri apple _Malus × domestica Borkh._ in Jammu region Koushalya Devi 934.pdf','',1,'The present study was done to evaluated the diversity of Ambri apple germplasm in Jammu region and to select elite Ambri apple genotypes possessing superior attributes. Fifty Ambri apple genotypes were collected from different locations in Jammu and their various morphological characters were studied. The genotypes showed wide variability with respect to tree and leaf characteristics. Studies on tree habit revealed substantial variability among the seedling raised Ambri apple genotypes. In the present investigation it was found that out of 50 Ambri apple genotypes (44 %) had upright tree habit while (46 %) had spreading and rest (10 %) genotypes had drooping tree habit. In case of tree vigour among the 50 selected Ambri apple genotypes none of the genotypes had extremely weak vigour, while (8 %) had weak tree vigour, (50 %) had intermediate, (38 %), had vigorous and rest (4 %) had very vigorous tree vigour. In case of leaf shape among the selected 50 Ambri apple genotypes (8 %) exhibi','Ambri apple, variability, tree vigour, leaf shape.','The purpose of our study was to obtain diversity in Ambri apple and present study confirmed that there is huge diversity of Ambri apple in North western Himalayan region. Thus it become necessary to preserve these unique genetic resources for improvement of fruit quality parameters. And for continuing its study to ensure its conservation, exchange and utilization in future breeding programmes for future development of innovative, market-driven cultivars through adoption of effective genetic approach.','-','Devi, K., Kour2 K., Bakshi, P., Sharma, B.C., Sharma, M. and Sinha, B.K. (2021). Evaluation of Diversity Among Tree and Leaf characteristics of Ambri apple (Malus Ã— domestica Borkh.) in Jammu region. Biological Forum â€“ An International Journal, 13(2):'),(2976,'100','Effect of different Types of Media and Containers on Germination, Survival, Growth and Establishment of Papaya (Carica papaya L.) cv. Red Lady under Protected Condition','Pragya Shrivastava, V.M. Prasad, H.K. Panigrahi, Vijay Bahdur and Yash Kr. Singh','97 Effect of different Types of Media and Containers on Germination, Survival, Growth and Establishment of Papaya _Carica papaya L._ cv. Red Lady under Protected Condition Pragya Shrivastava 988.pdf','',1,'The experiment was conducted to study the â€œEffect of different types of media and containers\r\non germination, survival, growth and establishment of papaya (Carica papaya L.) cv. Red Lady under\r\nprotected conditionâ€ at Hi-tech nursery located at Centre of Excellence on Protected Cultivation and\r\nPrecision Farming, Indira Gandhi Krishi Vishwavidyalaya, Raipur, Chhattisgarh during October to\r\nDecember, 2020. The experiment was setup in five levels of growing media i.e. (M0) Soil + FYM, (M1) Soil +\r\nFYM + Cocopeat (1:1:1), (M2) Soil + FYM + Vermicompost (1:1:1), (M3) Soil + FYM + Sand (1:1:1) and\r\n(M4) Soil + FYM + Poultry manure (1:1:1), (M5) Soil + FYM + Sand + Vermicompost (1:1:1:1) as well as\r\nthree containers(C1) Green Bag, (C2) Black polybag and (C3) White polybag. The design used in the\r\nexperiment was Factorial Complete Randomized Design with combination of 15 treatments and one control,\r\nreplicated thrice. The results showed that the growing media (M5) Soil + FYM + Sand + verm','Papaya, seedlings, Red lady, growing media, containers.','It can be concluded that out of all the growing media,\r\nM5 i.e. Soil +FYM + Sand + Vermicompost (1:1:1:1)\r\nwas observed to be the most effective for better\r\ngermination of papaya seeds and also for growth, vigour\r\nand establishment of papaya seedlings in containers and\r\nin main field and was at par with M2 (Soil + FYM +\r\nVermicompost) and M1 (Soil + FYM + Cocopeat).\r\nSimilarly, among the containers used, C3 (white\r\nPolybag) showed early germination, and was better on\r\nthe growth parameters and was at par with C3 (Green\r\nbag). Therefore, the combination of M5C3 i.e. Soil +\r\nFYM + Sand + Vermicompost (1:1:1:1) + (White\r\npolybag) found to be most suitable for raising the\r\npapaya seedlings as it gave better growth and survival\r\nof seedlings.','-','Shrivastava, P., Prasad, V.M., Panigrahi, H.K., Bahdur, V. and Singh, Y.K. (2021). Effect of different\r\nTypes of Media and Containers on Germination, Survival, Growth and Establishment of Papaya (Carica papaya L.) cv. Red\r\nLady under Protected Condition. '),(2977,'100','Effect of Application of FYM and Chemical Fertilizers on Yield and Proximate Analysis of Maize Green Fodder','C.B. Mane, K.U. Bidwe, R.R. Shelke, N.S. Satpute and P.A. Kahate','98 Effect of Application of FYM and Chemical Fertilizers on Yield and Proximate Analysis of Maize Green Fodder R.R. Shelke 982.pdf','',1,'Worldwide there is growing interest in the use of organic fertilizer due to depletion in the soil fertility because continuous use of chemical fertilizers create potential polluting effect due to chemicals in the environment considering same the present investigation entitled â€œEffect of application of FYM and chemical fertilizers on yield and proximate analysis of maize green fodderâ€ was conducted at Department of Animal Husbandry and Dairy Science, Post Graduate Institute, Dr PDKV, Akola for period 90 Days. Three treatments were studied namely T1 â€“ Nutrient management through organic manure and bio-pesticide for maize fodder, T2 â€“Nutrient management through fertilizer and IPM for xv maize fodder and T3 â€“ Nutrient management through fertilizer and pesticide for maize fodder. After 90 days of experiment fodder grown were analyzed for yield and proximate composition of maize green fodder. The mean yield of maize green fodder under treatment T1, T2 and T3 was 30.25, 31.29 and 31','FYM, Chemical fertilizer, Maize green fodder, Yield, Chemical composition.','From the results obtained in present study it is concluded that the effect of FYM and chemical fertilizer application on yield and proximate composition of maize green fodder was found statistically significant and non significant, respectively.','-','Mane, C.B., Bidwe, K.U., Shelke, R.R., Satpute, N.S. and Kahate, P.A. (2021). Effect of Application of FYM and Chemical Fertilizers on Yield and Proximate Analysis of Maize Green Fodder. Biological Forum â€“ An International Journal, 13(2): 676-679.'),(2978,'100','Weed Dynamics in Rice (Oryza sativa L.) as Influenced by Different Establishment Methods and Nutrient Management Practices ','Rakesh Kumar, D.K. Singh, Gangadhar Nanda and Anupama Rawat','99 Weed Dynamics in Rice _Oryza sativa L._ as Influenced by Different Establishment Methods and Nutrient Management Practices Rakesh Kumar 1051.pdf','',1,'Weed flora in rice is affected by establishment methods and nutrient management practices. Effective weed management is the key to get higher rice yield which needs thorough investigation of weed flora. Therefore, a field experiment was conducted at Pantnagar, Uttarakhand during Kharif, 2018 and 2019 to study the effect of different establishment methods and nutrient management practices on weed dynamics of rice (Oryza sativa L.). Four establishment methods (transplanting, system of rice intensification, direct seeded rice and wet-direct seeded rice) and five nutrient management practices (100 % RDF, 75 % RDF + FYM (equiv. to 25 % N), 150 % RDF, RDF (LCC based N application) and RDF + 5 t FYM) were tested in split plot design with three replication using rice variety PR-121 as test crop. An area of 5 m2 out of 20 m2 was earmarked in each plot for studying weed dynamics and weed dry matter as influenced by different establishment methods and nutrient management practices. Results showed','Rice, Establishment methods, Nutrient management practices, weed dry matter and weed density','From the results of the present investigation, it was concluded that among the establishment methods, system of rice intensification and among the nutrient management practices, 75 % RDF + FYM (equiv. to 25 % N) recorded the lowest weed density and dry weight of weeds. There is also a need to further study the weed dynamics under different establishment methods and nutrient management practices under different agro-ecological conditions','-','Kumar, R., Singh, D.K., Nanda, G. and Rawat, A. (2021). Weed Dynamics in Rice (Oryza sativa L.) as Influenced by Different Establishment Methods and Nutrient Management Practices. Biological Forum â€“ An International Journal, 13(2): 680-687.'),(2979,'102','Pest Risk Assessment Studies on Potato Cyst Nematode, Globodera rostochiensis under north India conditions','Surendra Singh Bhadu, Rajan Salalia, Y.S. Chandel and Raman Kumar Walia','1 Pest Risk Assessment Studies on Potato Cyst Nematode, Globodera rostochiensis under North India Conditions Rajan Salalia.pdf','',1,'Studies on potato cyst nematode, Globodera rostochiensis were conducted at two locations to ascertain, (i) the chances of its establishment post introduction at relatively lower altitudes (lower than 2000 m AMSL) and (ii) number of generations under north Indian conditions. The first experiment involved pot culture studies using artificially inoculated/naturally infested soil. The nematode did not develop on potato cv. Kufri Jyoti at lower altitude (1290 m AMSL) location of Palampur, Himachal Pradesh. The second experiment was conducted in naturally-infested field site at Nathatop, Jammu & Kashmir (2558 m AMSL). The nematode development was traced in situ through periodic observations on its life cycle stages. G. rostochiensis completed one generation (juvenile penetration to cyst containing eggs) in 40 days on potato cv. Kufri Girdhari (mean air temperature 11.88-14.7Â°C). The study signifies that nematode dissemination through seed material at locations below 2000 m AMSL may not be c','Globodera rostochiensis, Himachal Pradesh, Jammu & Kashmir, potato, potato cyst nematode.','Studies on potato cyst nematode, Globodera rostochiensis were conducted at two locations to ascertain, (i) the chances of its establishment post introduction at relatively lower altitudes (lower than 2000 m AMSL) and (ii) number of generations under north Indian conditions. The first experiment involved pot culture studies using artificially inoculated/naturally infested soil. The nematode did not develop on potato cv. Kufri Jyoti at lower altitude (1290 m AMSL) location of Palampur, Himachal Pradesh. The second experiment was conducted in naturally-infested field site at Nathatop, Jammu & Kashmir (2558 m AMSL). The nematode development was traced in situ through periodic observations on its life cycle stages. G. rostochiensis completed one generation (juvenile penetration to cyst containing eggs) in 40 days on potato cv. Kufri Girdhari (mean air temperature 11.88-14.7Â°C). The study signifies that nematode dissemination through seed material at locations below 2000 m AMSL may not be c','-','Bhadu, S.S., Salalia, R., Chandel, Y.S. and Walia, R.K. (2021). Pest Risk Assessment Studies on Potato Cyst Nematode, Globodera rostochiensis under North India conditions. Biological Forum â€“ An International Journal, 13(3): 01-04.'),(2980,'102','Studies on Pesticides Residual Effect on Maize and Lucern Green Fodder','C.B. Mane, K.U. Bidwe, R.R. Shelke, N.S. Satpute and P.A. Kahate','2 Studies on Pesticides Residual Effect on Maize and Lucern Green Fodder R.R. Shelke.pdf','',1,'The presence of pesticide residues in feed and its animal products is in the focus at the present scenario in the view of WTO. The residues not only affect the public health but also cause economic losses to the livestock industry. Not only these affect the health of livestock and human beings but also affect the quality of animal products. Pesticide residues accumulate in the animals either by direct contact with pesticide or by indirect contact with environment. Considering same present investigation, entitled â€œStudies on pesticides residual effect on maize and lucern green fodderâ€ was conducted at Department of Animal Husbandry and Dairy Science, Post Graduate Institute, Dr PDKV, Akola for period 90 Days. Three treatments were studied namely T1 â€“ Nutrient management through organic manure and bio-pesticide for maize fodder, T2 â€“Nutrient management through fertilizer and IPM for xv maize fodder and T3 â€“ Nutrient management through fertilizer and pesticide for maize fodder. ','FYM, Chemical fertilizer, Pesticides, IPM, Residual effect.','The results of metarhizum and neem seed extract application on term of residues on Maize and Lucerne fodder under treatment T1, T2, T3, T4 was below level of quantification, while- coragen pesticide application residues treatment in T5 and T6 was recorded i.e. 0.144 and 0.050 mg per kg respectively','-','Mane, C.B. Bidwe, K.U., Shelke, R.R., Satpute, N.S. and Kahate, P.A. (2021). Studies on Pesticides Residual Effect on Maize and Lucern Green Fodder. Biological Forum â€“ An International Journal, 13(3): 05-07.'),(2981,'102','Impact of Nitrogen Levels and Application of Boron on Yield and Growth of Greengram (Vigna radiata L.)','Budige Karthik, Umesha C., Lalit Kumar Sanodiya and Anumandla Swetha Priyadarshini','3 Impact of Nitrogen Levels and Application of Boron on Yield and Growth of Greengram _Vigna radiata L._ Budige Karthik 931.pdf','',1,'The Purpose of this study was to determine the â€œImpact of Nitrogen Levels and Application of Boron on Yield and Growth of Greengram (Vigna radiata L.)â€ var. SAMRAT. During the kharif of 2020, a field research was undertaken at the Crop Research Farm, Department of Agronomy, SHUATS, Prayagraj (U.P). Nitrogen and Boron are important elements for improving output and growth. The treatments consisted of nitrogen viz. N1 - 15 kg per ha, N2 - 20 kg per ha, N3 - 25 kg per ha and boron viz. B1 - 1 kg at 15 DAS (Soil application), B2 - 2 kg at 25 DAS (Soil application), B3 - 0.2% at 35 DAS (Foliar application). The trail was laid out in Randomized Block Design with nine treatments which were replicated thrice. The results showed that growth attributes viz. number of pods per plant (25.33), number of seeds per pod (6.67) and test weight (23.10) were recorded maximum with application of Nitrogen 25 kg/ha + Boron 0.2% foliar application at 35 DAS. However, seed yield (1260.44 kg/ha), haulm yie','Greengram, Nitrogen (N), Boron (B), Foliar Application, Growth and Yield.','It can be established that applying 25 kg N/ha + Boron 0.2 percent foliar spray at 35 DAS to generate higher yield in greengram for optimum agricultural output is the best for rainfed greengram production.','-','Karthik, B., Umesha C., Sanodiya, L. K., Mahesh, K., Priyadarshini, A.S. and Kumar, M.S.C (2021). Impact of Nitrogen Levels and Application of Boron on Yield and Growth of Greengram (Vigna radiata L.). Biological Forum â€“ An International Journal, 13(3):'),(2982,'102','Impact of Phosphorus Levels and Application of Molybdenum of Blackgram (Vigna mungo L.) on Growth and Yield Attributes','Kumbam Mahesh, Umesha C., Lalit Kumar Sanodiya and Makani Sarath Chandra Kumar','4 Impact of Phosphorus Levels and Application of Molybdenum of Blackgram _Vigna mungo L._ on Growth and Yield Attributes.pdf','',1,'The aim of this research was to determine the effect of phosphorus and application of molybdenum of blackgram (Vigna mungo L.) on growth and yield attributes (Var. Shakher-II). An experimental field investigation was undertaken at the Crop Research Farm, Department of Agronomy, SHUATS, Prayagraj, during the Kharif of 2020. (U.P.). Phosphorus and Molybdenum are the important factors for increasing the growth and production. The soil in which experiment plot was sandy loam in texture, pH was practically neutral (7.4), organic carbon was low (0.28%), available N was 225 kg/ha, available P was 21.50 kg/ha and available K was 125.9 kg/ha. The Observation Nine treatments were replicated three times in a randomized block design the findings show that yield attributes viz. the no. of pods produced for plants (35.07), seeds per pod (4.80) and test weight (24.39 g) obtained with maximum application of 40 kg/ha P2O5 along with Mo (Foliar spar 0.8% at 25 DAS). However, seed yield (1369.25 kg/ha), ','Black gram, Molybdenum, Phosphorus, yield','Based on the findings it is possible to achieved that for optimum seed yield, the performance of black gram at 40 kg/ha P2O5 + Mo 0.8% foliar spray at 25 DAS helpful for producing more yield under East U.P','-','Mahesh, K., Umesha, C., Sanodiya, L.K., Karthik, B. and Kumar, M.S.C. (2021). Impact of Phosphorus Levels and Application of Molybdenum of Blackgram (Vigna mungo L.) on Growth and Yield Attributes. Biological Forum â€“ An International Journal, 13(3): 12-'),(2983,'102','Effect of Phosphorus and Zinc Levels on Growth and Yield of Cluster Bean (Cyamopsis tetragonoloba L.)','Naveena, Umesha C. and Chandra Shekhar Sharma','5 Effect of Phosphorus and Zinc Levels on Growth and Yield of Cluster Bean _Cyamopsis tetragonoloba L._ NAVEENA.pdf','',1,'The field experiment was conducted during Kharif 2020 at Research Farm, Krishi Vigyan Kendra, Sangaria, Hanumangarh (Rajasthan). The soil of experimental plot was sandy loam in texture, nearly neutral in soil reaction (pH 8.37), low in organic carbon (0.26 %), available N (210.5 kg/ha), available P(37 kg/ha). The experiment was laid out in Randomized Block Design consists of nine treatment which are replicated thrice and the treatments consisted of phosphorus viz., P1 (20 kg/ha), P2 (40 kg/ha) P3 (60 kg/ha) and Zinc viz., Z1 (05 kg/ha), Z2 (10 kg/ha), Z3 (15 kg/ha). The result revealed that the among nine treatments growth parameters viz., plant height (112.40 cm), Dry weight (15.73 g/ plant), Branches (10.33), Crop growth rate (4.91 g/m2/day), are found significantly higher in treatment six with the application of 60 kg Phosphorus and 10 kg Zinc and the yield parameter are also recorded significantly higher in the same treatment viz., pods per plant (47.40), seed per pod (6.7), seed y','Cluster bean, Phosphorus, Zinc, Cyamopsis tetragonoloba','It is well known that adequate supply of nutrients is essential to provide better growth and development. Hence for better growth and yield of Cluster bean apply different dose of phosphorus and zinc and 60 kg/ha Phosphorus+10 kg/h Zinc has proved to be a better option for getting higher productivity under irrigated condition. All finding is based on the research carried out in single season only it may be validated for another locations and varieties','-','Naveena, Umesha C. and Sharma, C.S. (2021). Effect of Phosphorus and Zinc Levels on Growth and Yiled of Cluster Bean (Cyamopsis tetragonoloba L.). Biological Forum â€“ An International Journal, 13(3): 16-20.'),(2984,'102','Impact of Seed Invigoration with Panchagavya, Beejamrutha on Seed Quality Parameters in Bitter Gourd (Memordica charantia) under Salinity Conditions','Poonam Dilip Patil, Arun Kumar Chaurasia, Pradeep K. Shukla, Shivani Dubey and Anchal Kumari','6 Impact of Seed Invigoration with Panchagavya, Beejamrutha on Seed Quality Parameters in Bitter Gourd _Memordica charantia_ under Salinity Conditions POONAM DILIP PATIL.pdf','',1,'High salt conditions can inhibit seed germination and seedling growth in Bitter gourd. The present study was carried out to assess the effect of organic seed treatments on seed quality parameters of bitter gourd (Memordica charantia L.) under increased salinity concentrations. The study was carried out in the seed testing laboratory of Department of Genetics and Plant Breeding, SHUATS, Prayagraj with the treatments as Panchagavya, Jeevamrutham, Beejamrutha, Coconut water and Aloevera extract of varying concentrations under salinity levels of 0 mM, 150mM and 250 mM NaCl. The results indicated that increased levels of salinity concentrations have negative impact on quality parameters of bitter gourd. Soil salinity is the major abiotic factor that hinders the growth and establishment of the seedling. Priming enhances the quality parameters of the seedling up to certain salinity concentrations depending up on the type of primer and the dosage used for priming; beyond which it may be in eff','Bitter gourd, Panchagvaya, Bheejamruth, Jeevamruth, Coconut water and Aloevera extract.','The results indicates that priming is an alternate strategy to maintain the vigour of a seed under adverse abiotic environmental factors. The performance of untreated control, aloevera extract and coconut water had not shown any significant impact on the quality parameters of bitter gourd with the increased salinity levels. \r\nOrganic priming with Panchagavya at 6% for 12 hrs at 0mM NaCl stress levels found to be promising with germination of 79.50%, 34.775 cm seedling length, 8.935 g fresh weight, 1.015 g dry weight, 2762.99 seedling vigour index-i and 80.605 vigour index-ii.\r\nFrom the result, it can be concluded that seed priming is an alternate strategy to develop healthy seedlings under salinity conditions to a particular extent; priming with organics, Panchagavya and Jeevamrutha were found promising and can be suggested for commercial cultivation.\r\n','-','Patil, P.D., Chaurasia, A.K., Shukla, P.K., Dubey, S. and Kumari, A. (2021). Impact of Seed Invigoration with Panchagavya, Beejamrutha on Seed Quality Parameters in Bitter Gourd (Memordica charantia) under Salinity Conditions. Biological Forum â€“ An Int'),(2985,'102','Comparative Study of Zinc and Boron Nano-fertilizer with Conventional fertilizer on Nutrient Status of Soil in Lentil Crop (Lens culinaris Medik.) cv. K-75','Priyanka Roy, Narendra Swaroop, Tarence Thomas and Akshita Barthwal','7 Comparative Study of Zinc and Boron Nano-fertilizer with Conventional fertilizer on Nutrient Status of Soil in Lentil Crop Lens culinaris Medik. cv. K-75 Priyanka Roy.pdf','',1,'Farmers all around world are challenged with the onerous task of feeding increasing mouths every year from agricultural lands that are shrinking as a result of global population growth and rising urbanisation. Considering, land and water supplies are limited, agriculture can only flourish with increasing productivity through the skillful application of modern technologies. As a result, the demand for nano-fertilizer is steadily increasing as it improves nutrient utilisation efficiency. It has a large surface area, holds a lot of nutrients, and minimizes the need for conventional fertilizer. Thus, agricultural plant productivity improves. Micronutrients are necessary for plant growth and yield; even if they are only required in little amounts. The purpose of this study was to compare the effects of nano zinc and boron fertilizer to conventional fertilizer on soil nutrient status in lentil crops. The experiment consisted of 9 treatment combinations which were replicated thrice and laid o','Soil physico-chemical properties, Nano-fertilizer, Zinc, Boron and Lentil.','Results obtained indicate that application of nano-fertilizers along with conventional fertilizers led to increase in nutrient status of soil. The best results were obtained from treatment T9 (100% nano-fertilizer along with 100% chemical fertilizers).Farmers should turn traditional fertilizers towards nano-fertilizer as its nutrient use efficiency is more than traditional fertilizer and also require in small amount. \r\nThe present study provides new findings about to effect of different nano-micronutrients on nutrients status of soil in lentil crop. Thus, may improve soil fertility and crop yield. Since the results were based on one-year experimental data. As a result, more research is needed to determine the mode of action of various nano-micronutrients and their impact on soil nutrient status\r\n','-','Roy, P., Swaroop, N., Thomas, T. and Barthwal, A. (2021). Comparative Study of Zinc and Boron Nano-fertilizer with Conventional fertilizer on Nutrient Status of Soil in Lentil Crop (Lens culinaris Medik.) cv. K-75. Biological Forum â€“ An International Jo'),(2986,'102','Impact of Salinity Stress on Seed Quality Parameters and its Mitigation through Seed Quality Enhancement in Blackgram Seeds (Vigna mungo L.)','Rodda Spandana, Arun Kumar Chaurasia, Vikram Singh, Vislavath Ramvilas Pashwan and Retineni Dileep','8 Impact of Salinity Stress on Seed Quality Parameters and its Mitigation through Seed Quality Enhancement in Blackgram Seeds _Vigna mungo L._ Rodda Spandana.pdf','',1,'The Purpose of this study was to determine the impact of salinity stress on seed quality parameters and its mitigation through seed quality enhancement in blackgram seeds (Vigna mungo L.). The lab experiment was conducted during 2020-2021 in seed testing laboratory Department of Genetics and Plant Breeding, NAI, SHUATS, Prayagraj, Uttar Pradesh. Salinity stress on blackgram seeds on enhancement of seed quality parameters. The were given a treatment Panchagaya (3% and 6%), Bejamrita (25% and 50%), Coconut water (8% and 10%), KNO3 (3grm and 6gm) in seed quality parameters under the various Salinity Stress condition of with three levels S0, S1 and S2 (0 mM, 100 mM, 150mM) with Shaker â€“II variety of Blackgram. The result revealed that treatments recorded significant variation with the untreated control. The treatment combination T8S0 of 6gm KNO3 for 12 hours at 0 mM NaCl performed well with seedling. Germination of Percentage 95.50%, Shoot length as 10.025 cm as follows as Root length 12','Black gram, Organic priming, Inorganic priming, Salinity Stress.','From the present investigation it is concluded that the seed treatment enhanced all the seed quality parameters under salinity stress in blackgram seeds when compared to control. It was also revealed that seed treatment with 6g of KNO3 is easy and effective approach to enhance the seed quality parameters under salinity stress.','-','Spandana, R., Chaurasia, A. K., Singh, V., Pashwan, V. R., Mahesh, K. and Dileep, R. (2021). Impact of Salinity Stress on Seed Quality Parameters and its Mitigation through Seed Quality Enhancement in Blackgram Seeds (Vigna mungo L.). Biological Forum â€'),(2987,'102','Assessment of livelihood Sustainability Index and Financial Capita Index of Dairy Owners in Adopted Villages under Unnat Bharat Abhiyan','A.K. Varpe, K.U. Bidwe, R.R. Shelke, S.D. Chavan and S.D. More','9 Assessment of livelihood Sustainability Index and Financial Capita Index of Dairy Owners in Adopted Villages under Unnat Bharat Abhiyan R.R. Shelke.pdf','',1,'The present investigation entitled â€œAssessment of livelihood Sustainability Index and Financial Capita Index of Dairy Owners in Adopted Villages under â€œUnnat Bharat Abhiyanâ€ under university adopted five village clusters viz. Masa, Chandur, Kaulkhed (Gomase), Kanheri Sarap and Redwa of Akola District (M.S.). A survey was carried out by selecting 60 livestock owners from each village in such a manner total 300 respondents were selected for the study. Data were collected for the year 2014 to 2019 on profile, status, various determinants of improvement of rural livelihood and constraints of dairy farmers. The result showed that, assessment of Livelihood Sustainability Index was carried on the basis of collected data, majority of respondent 43.33 per cent dairy farmers of western Vidarbha had low livelihood sustainability, 42.19 per cent farmers had medium livelihood sustainability and remaining 14.46 per cent farmers had high livelihood sustainability. In regards to financial constr','Unnat Bharat Abhiyan, Livelihood Sustainability Index, Financial Capita Index.','On the basis of data analyzed in the present study it is concluded that, majority of respondent 43.33 per cent dairy farmers of western Vidarbha had low livelihood sustainability, 42.19 per cent farmers had medium livelihood sustainability and remaining 14.46 per cent farmers had high livelihood sustainability. In regards to less than two-third (62.00 %) respondents had low financial capital followed by 30% medium financial capital and 7.66 % high financial capital. ','-','Varpe, A.K., Bidwe, K.U., Shelke, R.R., Chavan, S.D. and More, S.D. (2021). Assessment of livelihood Sustainability Index and Financial Capita Index of Dairy Owners in Adopted Villages under Unnat Bharat Abhiyan. Biological Forum â€“ An International Jour'),(2988,'102','Assessment of the Growth and Yield Parameters of Fillers in Rubber Intercropping','R. Swarnapriya','10 Assessment of the Growth and Yield Parameters of Fillers in Rubber Intercropping R. Swarnapriya.pdf','',1,'Filler crops are a boon to worldwide floriculture industry. This trend has increased still further because of the green, lively and refreshing image presented by such products and the predicted increase in consumption of floral products. They are being used in floral designs and also serve as a good ground cover for shady locations. Rubber is remunerative plantation crop However as the gestation period is very long even up to seven years the land in the alley spaces remain unutilised. To cultivate these filler crops shade is required which is normally provided with artificial shade nets. This in turn increases the cost of production of these filler crops. Instead of creating shade condition artificially, the natural shade like growing under plantation crops viz., rubber makes a dual benefit for both rubber and filler crops. Hence in this study nine filler crops were grown under rubber plantation in randomized block design with three replications. The different growth and yield paramete','Filler crops, growth, rubber, yield.','The intercropped foliage plants in rubber plantation showed a significant variation for growth and yield parameters. The treatment T5 Dypsis lutescence exhibited better growth characters viz., plant height (74.6 cm) and petiole length (34.5 cm) compared with other treatments. The leaf yield was highest in T3 Draceana fragrans cv. Massangeana (29.7). The same species have recorded a shelf life of 32.6 days. As these are cut foliages the number of leaves produced per plant is an important criteria for economical production Considering these findings with regard to number of leaves and shelf life it could be concluded that T3 Draceana fragrans cv. Massangeana is economic and most suitable crop for enhancing the land use efficiency of rubber plantation by intercropping.','-','Swarnapriya, R. (2021). Assessment of the Growth and Yield Parameters of Fillers in Rubber Intercropping. Biological Forum â€“ An International Journal, 13(3): 41-44.'),(2989,'102','Studies on Genetic Variability, Heritability and Genetic Advance for Yield and Yield Attributes in Bitter Gourd (Momordica charantia L.) Genotypes','Manjulapur Sampath Reddy, P. Prashanth, D. Laxminarayana and P. Saidaiah','11 Studies on Genetic Variability, Heritability and Genetic Advance for Yield and Yield Attributes in Bitter Gourd _Momordica charantia L._ Genotypes MANJULAPUR SAMPATH REDDY.pdf','',1,'The present investigation was undertaken during Kharif 2017-18, College of Horticulture, Mojerla, Sri Konda Laxman Telangana State Horticultural University, Telangana. The trial was laid out in Randomized Block Design with twenty seven bitter gourd genotypes. Analysis of variance revealed significant differences among all the genotypes for all the characters. The genetic parameters were studied to elucidate the genetic variability, heritability and genetic advance in bitter gourd (Momordica charantia L.). The genotypes exhibited a large range of variability for all the characters. Phenotypic coefficient of variation (PCV) was more than genotypic coefficient of variation (GCV) for all the characters studied. PCV was higher than the appropriate GCV in all aspects that describe the environmental factors that influence their expression to some degree or another. Heritability (> 60) have been observed for vine length, number of primary branches per vine, number of nodes per vine, Internodal','Variability, heritability, RBD, PCV, GCV, genetic advance.','The analysis of variance revealed significant difference for eighteen characters studied and reported that there was sufficient amount of variability exist among the genotypes. Wide range of variability was observed for vine length, number of fruits per plant, average fruit weight, fruit length, total fruit yield indicating the scope for selection of suitable initial breeding material for further improvement. High PCV and GCV estimates were recorded The difference between PCV and GCV values were minimum, indicating that the traits under study were less influenced by environment and these characters could be improved by following phenotypic selection. Heritability estimates were high for all the characters studied except days to last fruit harvest. This suggested the greater effectiveness of selection due to less influence of environment and improvement to be expected for these characters in future breeding programme as the genetic variance is mostly due to the additive gene action. Gen','-','Reddy, M.S., Prashanth, P., Laxminarayana, D. and Saidaiah, P. (2021). Studies on Genetic Variability, Heritability and Genetic Advance for Yield and Yield Attributes in Bitter Gourd (Momordica charantia L.) Genotypes. Biological Forum â€“ An Internationa'),(2990,'102','Ambiguity of Genome Packaging Mechanism in Viruses','Auroshikha Mohanty, Jitesh Kumar, Ravi Ranjan Kumar and Tushar Ranjan','12 Ambiguity of Genome Packaging Mechanism in Viruses Tushar Ranjan.pdf','',1,'Viruses can infect every life form, from plants, bacteria, fungi to humans and other vertebrates. To protect life from various viral diseases, it is necessary to control viruses that generally invade all life forms regularly. Among all the methods to combat viral infections, targeting the genome packaging can give us some potential control strategies against viruses. Genome packaging involves translocation and compaction of negatively charged DNA into the confined space of procapsid. The molecular machinery that executes genome packaging in viruses with outstanding accuracy needs to be explored in details. Although mechanism of genome packaging has been studied thoroughly in bacteriophages and large DNA viruses but details of genome packaging and assembly in plant viruses are unexplored yet. This mini review aims to discuss the components of genome packaging in viruses and review recent breakthroughs in this area, which will help deduce the mechanism of genome packaging among viruses.','Genome packaging and translocation, Viruses, Packaging ATPase, ATP.','It appears that the packaging of the viral genome can be classified into three types. As seen in the case of small plant viruses where the packaging mechanism is further classified into subgroups based on the variations observed. It ranges from simple as in the case of type 1B and 1C to more complex ATP-dependent type 1A. In type 2 system, packaging of viral genome involves terminase assembly at cos site of the concatamer and nicks the duplex leaving the left end of the genome to be packaged. After binding to procapsid, packaging machinery docks the DNA inside the capsid through portal protein present at the vertex. In type 3, packaging machinery is phylogenetically closer to prokaryotes. It also suggests that the viral packaging mechanism has a vital role in the coevolution of bacteria. We have attempted to discuss all the three types of packaging mechanisms employed by viruses with suitable examples','-','Mohanty, A., Kumar, J., Kumar, R.R. and Ranjan, T. (2021). Ambiguity of Genome Packaging Mechanism in Viruses. Biological Forum â€“ An International Journal, 13(3): 52-57.'),(2991,'102','Effect of Drought Stress on Grain Quality Attributes in Wheat (Triticum aestivum L.) Varieties','Dommalapati Sudhakara Rao, Midathala Raghavendra, Parveen Gill, Shashi Madan and Renu Munjal','13 Effect of Drought Stress on Grain Quality Attributes in Wheat _Triticum aestivum L._ Varieties Dommalapati Sudhakara Rao.pdf','',1,'Drought stress severely limits wheat crop production and adversely affects grain quality. The effect is more severe when the grain filling stage of crop coincidence with drought. The nutritional complement of stressed grains is significantly decreased which will contribute to malnutrition to the consumers whose staple food is wheat. The present study aims to evaluate some quality attributes to assess the extent of effect caused in wheat grains and the data obtained would be used for the development of better drought-tolerant wheat varieties. Two wheat varieties viz. WH 1105 and WH 1025 were grown in the field under drought stress and irrigated conditions, grains were selected after harvest of the crop and evaluated for quality traits. Some quality attributes such as grain appearance score, hectoliter weight, grain hardness, crude protein content, wet and dry gluten were evaluated in two wheat varieties viz. WH 1105 and WH 1025. Grain appearance score of 5.9 was observed in WH 1105 in ','Wheat (Triticum aestivum L.), drought stress, grain quality attributes, grain appearance score, hectolitre weight, grain hardness, crude protein content, wet gluten and dry gluten.','Grain appearance score of WH 1105 is unchanged under irrigated and drought conditions while the score is slightly decreased in WH 1025 under drought stress condition.\r\nâ€” Hectolitre weight decreased under drought stress with more decrease was observed in WH 1025 as compared to WH 1105. \r\nâ€” Grain hardness decreased under drought with more decrease in WH 1105 than WH 1025. \r\nâ€” Crude protein and gluten content increased under drought stress with more increase was observed in WH 1105 than WH 1025.\r\n','-','Rao, D.S., Raghavendra, M., Gill, P., Madan, S. and Munjal, R. (2021). Effect of Drought Stress on Grain Quality Attributes in Wheat (Triticum aestivum L.) varieties. Biological Forum â€“ An International Journal, 13(3): 58-63.'),(2992,'102','Biophysical Traits as Resistance Sources in Bitter Gourd Genotypes Against Melon Fruit fly (Bactrocera cucurbitae Coquillett)','Chandan K.C., B. Doddabasappa, Gangadhar Narabenchi, H. Amarananjundeswara, S.K. Mushrif, R. Manjunatha and K.R.M. Bhanu','14 Biophysical Traits as Resistance Sources in Bitter Gourd Genotypes Against Melon Fruit fly _Bactrocera cucurbitae Coquillett_ B. Doddabasappa.pdf','',1,'Melon fruit fly (Bactrocera cucurbitae Coquillett) is one of the most important pests of cucurbits and bitter gourd (Momordica charantia Lin.) is highly prone to damage by this pest worldwide. Twenty-eight bitter gourd genotypes/hybrids were screened against fruit fly under field conditions at College of Horticulture, Kolar, Karnataka, India. The fruit damage was ranged from 18.10% to 83.38%. Maggot density per fruit ranged from 3.50 to 10.50 larvae/fruit. The maggot density increased with the increase in per cent fruit damage and showed significant positive correlation (r=0.89). Among the different genotypes/hybrids screened, Palee-1 and Leena were classified under resistant category, whereas the 22 genotypes/hybrids were categorized as moderately resistant. The Preeti and BG-13 were categorized into susceptible group and IC-541218-1 and Arka Harita were grouped into highly susceptible genotypes/hybrids. Fruit length, fruit diameter and exhibited positive correlation. Whereas, the num','Bitter gourd, fruit infestation, melon fruit fly, biophysical traits.','It can be concluded from the present investigation that, Palee-1 and Leena was registered as resistant genotypes. The IC-541218-1 and Akra Harita were reported highly susceptible genotypes. The biophysical traits such as fruit toughness and rind thickness was noticed significantly highest in the resistant genotypes (Palee-1 and Leena) compared to the highly susceptible genotypes (IC-541218-1 and Akra Harita). These biophysical traits which impart resistance against fruit fly infestation. These marker traits can be well utilized in the development of bitter gourd varieties of conferring melon fruit fly resistance in the near future','-','Chandan K.C., Doddabasappa, B., Gangadhar Narabenchi, Amarananjundeswara, H., Mushrif, S.K., Manjunatha, R. and Bhanu, K.R.M. (2021). Biophysical Traits as Resistance Sources in Bitter Gourd Genotypes Against Melon Fruit Fly (Bactrocera cucurbitae Coquil'),(2993,'102','Optimization and Textural properties of set Yoghurt prepared with Hydrocolloids, Milk and Tender Coconut Water','G. Swarnalatha, K. Sudharani and K. Rajgopal','15 Optimization and Textural properties of set Yoghurt prepared with Hydrocolloids, Milk and Tender Coconut Water G. Swarnalatha 1095.pdf','',1,'New and innovative type of yoghurt products are being marketed resulting in a phenomenal increase in the per-capita consumption of this product. Recently, there is a great demand for functional yoghurts by consumer, especially those produced through the incorporation of food of plant origin or its bioactive components. Set yoghurt was prepared by addition of different levels of 10:90, 20:80, 30:70 (v/v) of tender coconut water and milk respectively and the control yoghurt was prepared from 100% cow milk. Different hydrocolloids were used namely carrageenan, sodium alginate and modified starch at 0.05-0.25% and cultures (1 & 2%) in the preparation of set yoghurt. Textural properties of prepared set yoghurt were analyzed using texture analyzer. The firmness of the product improved at all the levels tried by using modified starch. In preliminary trails, carrageenan and sodium alginate had increased the wheying off in TCWâ€“milk blended yoghurt considerably, especially at higher concentrat','Tender coconut water, set yoghurt optimization, hydrocolloids, firmness and texture., ','From this experimental study it was concluded that tender coconut water can be successfully incorporated in set yoghurt by addition of hydrocolloids. The results showed that addition of modified starch at 10:90-TCW-milk blends gave better results when compared with control. Firmness of yoghurt prepared with sodium alginate and carageenan had negative effect with increase in concentration. In addition, the level of 2% culture showed good results than those of 1% culture. Hydrocolloids plays an important role for improving textural properties of set yoghurt incorporated with tender coconut water','-','Swarnalatha, G., Sudharani, K. and Rajgopal, K. (2021). Optimization and Textural properties of set Yoghurt prepared with Hydrocolloids, Milk and Tender Coconut Water. Biological Forum â€“ An International Journal, 13(3): 71-75.'),(2994,'102','In Vivo Study of Different Compounds and Sowing Time for the Management of Turcicum Leaf Blight of Maize caused by Exserohilum turcicum (Pass.) Leonard and Suggs','Shakeelahamed J.T., Venkatesh, Mallikarjuna N. and Muniswamappa M.V.','16 In Vivo Study of Different Compounds and Sowing Time for the Management of Turcicum Leaf Blight of Maize caused by Exserohilum turcicum _Pass._ Leonard and Suggs Shakeelahamed J.T.pdf','',1,'To identify improved control strategies for maize turcicum leaf blight (TLB) disease, including\r\nthe use of different fungicides, bioagents and botanicals to decrease yield loss in the crop. Maize ( Zea mays\r\nL.) is one of the most important food crops worldwide, along with rice and wheat, serving as a staple food,\r\nlivestock feed, and industrial raw material. TLB of maize is caused by Exserohilum turcicum (Pass.) Leonard\r\nand Suggs, and it is one of the primary constraints in all major maize growing areas of Southern Karnataka,\r\ncausing higher grain production losses in maize crops. Seed treatment and foliar spray were used to test the\r\nefficacy of eleven treatments, including bioagents, botanicals, and fungicides, in reducing TLB in susceptible\r\nmaize variety CM 202. In Kharif and Rabi 2016, foliar sprays with Trifloxystrobin 25% + Tebuconazole 50%\r\n@ 0.7 g/l were found to be effective in reducing disease severity by 66.93 and 67.06 per cent, respectively,\r\nwhile foliar sprays with M','Maize, turcicum leaf blight (TLB), Exserohilum turcicum, Fungicides, Bioagents, Management.','Foliar sprays with Trifloxystrobin 25% + Tebuconazole 50%\r\n@ 0.7 g/l effectively reduced disease severity, increased grain\r\nyield, and had a high benefit to cost ratio, followed by foliar\r\nsprays with Mancozeb @ 2.5 g/l and foliar spray with\r\nTebuconazole @ 1ml g/l. Seed treatment combined with foliar\r\nsprays of Trichoderma harzianum @ 5g/l and Azadirachta\r\nindica @ 10 per cent reduced disease severity among\r\nbioagents and botanicals. In the susceptible inbred line CM-\r\n202, disease severity was found to be low during early and\r\nmid-sowing.','-','Shakeelahamed J.T., Venkatesh, Mallikarjuna, N. and Muniswamappa, M.V. (2021). In Vivo Study of\r\nDifferent Compounds and Sowing Time for the Management of Turcicum Leaf Blight of Maize caused by Exserohilum turcicum\r\n(Pass.) Leonard and Suggs. Biological '),(2995,'102','Influence of Nutrient Sprays on Vegetative Characters of Apple under High Density Plantation Variety Gala Redlum','Aamina Sadiq, M.A. Mir, K.M. Bhat, S.A .Mir, S.A. Bhat and A.H. Rather','17 Influence of Nutrient Sprays on Vegetative Characters of Apple under High Density Plantation Variety Gala Redlum Aamina Sadiq.pdf','',1,'The present investigations were carried on seven years old plants of Apple cv. Gala Redlum grafted on M9-T337 rootstock at experimental orchards, Division of fruit science, SKUAST-K, Shalimar during 2018-2019. Foliar sprays with nutrients consisting of seven treatments T0(control), T1(Macarena@1.5 ml/l), T2 (Plentogrow@4 ml/l), T3(Cytored@4ml/l), T4(Macarena+Cytored@1.5+4 ml/l), T5(Plentigrow+cytored@4 +4 ml/l), T6(Macarena+Cytored+Plentigrow @ 1.5+4+4 ml/l). The experiments were laid out in a randomized complete block design and replicated thrice. Foliar sprays of nutrients were carried thrice during the season at 50% bloom and one month after first spray and Beginning of fruit color change (2nd week of July). Amongst nutrient sprays, (T6) combination of (Macarena + Cytored + Plentigrow @ 1.5 + 4 +4 ml/l) recorded highest growth characters in terms of Annual increase in trunk girth, Annual increase in TCSA, Annual incremental tree height, Annual incremental tree spread, Annual ext','Apple, growth characters, nutrients concentration, Gala Redlum.','The best combination of foliar application of (Macarena + Plentigrow + Cytored) improved growth parameters in Gala Redlum variety of apple. So, the results confirm that foliar nutrient sprays can be useful tool for orchardists to here this objective, to get the quick response of plants in very less time as compared to other methods of fertilizers. Hence the combined foliar application of macro and micro nutrients are recommended to improve the growth characters of plant.','-','Sadiq, A., Mir, M.A., Bhat, K.M., Mir, S.A., Bhat, S.A. and Rather, A.H. (2021). Influence of Nutrient Sprays on Vegetative Characters of Apple under High Density Plantation Variety Gala Redlum. Biological Forum â€“ An International Journal, 13(3): 82-85'),(2996,'102','Physicochemical Characteristics of Microencapsulated Red-Fleshed Dragon Fruit Juice Powder through Spray Drying','Vinod B.R., Ramachandra Naik K., Kirankumar Gorabal, Deepa Terdal and Patil S.N.','18 Physicochemical Characteristics of Microencapsulated Red-Fleshed Dragon Fruit Juice Powder through Spray Drying Vinod B R.pdf','',1,'Dragon fruits are seasonal and likely perishable in ambient condition, but they have great near future in the food industry as a functional food and natural food colorant, which can be exploited through spray drying technology. In this context, the present investigation was aimed to standardize the operation parameters to produce spray dried dragon fruit powder. In this study, three levels of inlet air temperature (140, 150 and 160Â°C) and maltodextrin (MD) concentration (15, 17.5 and 20%) were carried out, whereas other parameters were kept constant. The result revealed that, the dragon fruit juice powder obtained at an inlet temperature of 150Â°C with 20% MD had highest powder recovery (15.78%), whereas the treatment with 150Â°C with 15% MD was founded to be excellent in maintaining superior physicochemical properties (Moisture content: 4.12%, Aw: 0.29, Hygroscopicity: 19.59%, Solubility: 95.53%, Wettability: 10.16%, Bulk density: 0.68 g/ml, Betacyanin: 8.68 mg/100g, TSS: 41.60 Â°B','Water activity, Solubility, Hygroscopicity, Bulk density, Particle size, Ascorbic acid, Betacyanin,','The present investigation drew the inference that the treatment with 150 Â°C inlet temperature with 20% MD concentration gave highest powder yield. Inlet air temperatures and MD concentrations had significant impact on physicochemical characteristics of the spray-dried dragon fruit powder. The most suitable processing conditions for the powder production with superior physicochemical and colour characteristics received at an inlet air temperature of 150 Â°C with 15% maltodextrin. The outcomes obtained during the present investigation indicated that good quality powders with optimum moisture content and water activity can be produced by spray drying, which demonstrates the substantial potentiality for the use of such powders in the functional food ingredients and food colouring agent in the various food processing industry','-','Vinod, B.R., Ramachandra Naik K., Gorabal, K., Terdal, D. and Patil, S.N. (2021). Physicochemical Characteristics of Microencapsulated Red-Fleshed Dragon Fruit Juice Powder Through Spray Drying. Biological Forum â€“ An International Journal, 13(3): 86-94.'),(2997,'102','Influence of Phosphorus and Sulphur Levels on Evolution and Yield of Cluster bean (Cyamopsis tetragonoloba L.)','Shivakumar Naik E., Balachandra Y., Joy Dawson and Sai Kiran Munagala','19 Influence of Phosphorus and Sulphur Levels on Evolution and Yield of Cluster bean _Cyamopsis tetragonoloba L._ SHIVAKUMAR NAIK E.pdf','',1,'Field experimentation was conducted during kharif 2020 at KVK, Kalyandurg, Anantapur, and Andhra Pradesh. The soil of experimental plot was sandy loam in texture, Basic in soil reaction (pH 8.29), low in organic carbon (0.20%), available N (190.6 kg/ha), available P (37 kg/ha), available K (100 kg/ha) and available sulphur (9.5 kg/ha). The treatments which are Phosphorus at 40, 50, 60 kg/ha along with it sulphur at 15, 20, 25 kg/ha and control treatment with farmer practice at 20+40+20 kg/ha (N+P+K kg/ha) was used. The research was laid out in Randomized Block Design with ten treatments each replicated three times. In that study maximum plant height (86.00 cm), Branches/plant (21.80) plant dry weight (15.99 g/plant), Crop growth rate (2.37 g/m2/day), Relative growth rate (0.03 g/g/day), Maximum Pod/plants (10.57), Maximum Pod length(16.26 cm), Pod yield (11.69 t/ha), Grain yield (3.41 t/ha), Stover yield (7.4 t/ha) seed index (4.47 g/100 seeds) and Maximum Harvest index (32.99 %) noted','Cluster bean, Phosphorus, sulphur, Growth, Yield.','On the basis of study, Anantapur, Andhra Pradesh region conditions are much better suitable for growing cluster bean due to its hot and humid conditions, in that this present investigation suggested that by Phosphorus (P) 60 kg/ha + Sulphur (S) 20 kg/ha resulted highest plant height (86.00 cm), branches per plant (21.80 no.), pods/plant (10.57), pod length (16.26 cm) as well as yield of (3.41 t/ha) and stover yield (7.35 t/ha) were recorded in cluster bean','-','Shivakumar Naik E., Balachandra, Y., Dawson, J. and Munagala, S.K. (2021). Influence of Phosphorus and Sulphur Levels on Evolution and Yield of Cluster bean (Cyamopsis tetragonoloba L.). Biological Forum â€“ An International Journal, 13(3): 95-100.'),(2998,'102','Studies on Genetic variability, Heritability, Genetic Advance and Trait Association in Tomato (Solanum lycopersicum L.)','Bhavesh Verma, Anita Kerketta, Dhananjay Sharma and Vijay Bahadur','20 Studies on Genetic variability, Heritability, Genetic Advance and Trait Association in Tomato _Solanum lycopersicum L._ BHAVESH VERMA.pdf','',1,'The present investigation was planned to estimate the variances between genotype and within genotype, to estimate genetic parameters and to identify superior genotype for further utilization at Department of Vegetable Sciences, Horticultural Research cum Instructional Farm, Indira Gandhi Krishi Vishwavidyalaya, Raipur, Chhattisgarh during Rabi season 2019-2020. Here fifteen tomato genotypes were evaluated in randomized block design with three replications. Based on analysis of variance along with genetic parameters viz., range, means, GCV, PCV, heritability and genetic advance significant differences were observed for all twenty characters. On mean performance of tomato genotypes, it was found that the genotype 2019/TODVAR-9 followed by 2019/TODVAR-8 and Pant Tomato 3 recorded significantly higher yield per hectare and were most suitable for Raipur region. For all the parameters, PCV estimates were greater than GCV indicated that environmental factors stimulating the expression of all ','Heritability, Genetic variability, Genetic advance.','In the present investigation most of the parameters showed significant mean sum of square except TSS content, which indicated that sufficient amount of variability is present among different genotypes. Based on mean performance of tomato genotypes it were found that the genotype 2019/TODVAR-9 followed by 2019/ TODVAR-8 and Pant Tomato 3 recorded significantly higher yield per hectare and were most suitable for Raipur region. For all the parameters the PCV estimates was greater than GCV indicated that environmental factors stimulating the expression of all parameters. Occurrence of high heritability as well as genetic gain was recorded for the traits secondary branches, days to first flowering, days to first fruiting, days to fruit maturity, fruit weight, polar diameter, equatorial diameter, pericarp thickness, calyx length, acidity and yield per plant. These indicated the influence of additive gene effect in heritability of these parameters. Hence, these traits are important for improv','-','Verma, B., Kerketta, A., Sharma, D. and Bahadur, V. (2021). Studies on Genetic variability, Heritability, Genetic Advance and Trait Association in Tomato (Solanum lycopersicum L.). Biological Forum â€“ An International Journal, 13(3): 101-104.'),(2999,'102','Indexing of IRRI-Global Rice Array Genotypes for Earliness to Meet the Challenges of Climate Change','Deepayan Roy and Indra Deo Pandey','21 Indexing of IRRI-Global Rice Array Genotypes for Earliness to Meet the Challenges of Climate Change Deepayan Roy.pdf','',1,'Early-maturing rice genotypes can help the farmers to sow the first season crop during late onset of monsoon and/or delayed release of irrigation water from reservoir. This scenario is the most common problem now-a-days in the north Indian hills. In this context, indexing of 11 exotic rice lines selected from the IRRI-Global Rice Array Antenna Panel, and a local check (Govind) were done to identify early maturing genotypes. The field experiment of present study was done at the N.E.B., Crop Research Centre of GBPUA&T, Pantnagar during kharif season of two consecutive years 2019-2020. The observations were recorded on six morphological traits and data obtained was subjected to statistical analysis. The Analysis of Variance of both seasons indicated that the mean sum of square due to genotype were highly significant for all studied trait indicating the preponderance of genetic variability in the experimental material. In the year 2019, URAIBOOL::IRGC 52785-1 and IR 126182-1-1-1 were foun','Rice genotypes, Early maturing, IRRI, Global Rice Array, Antenna Panel.','Global Climate Change, water scarcity, labour shortage, declining water-table level predicted severe shortfall in rice production (Monaco et al., 2016). In order to address the challenges of climate change, there is a need to develop new varieties of rice which can adapt to future climates as well as can handle the consequences of pest and disease pressures. The GRA was designed in this line where there are two type of panels â€“ Antenna panel and reference panel. The Antenna panel is like the eye of the breeder which facilitates in indexing of rice genotypes for superior traits in all aspects of crop improvement. It can be concluded from above study that URAIBOOL::IRGC 52785-1 and IRRI 104are early genotype out of all the exotic lines evaluated and that early line identified can be used to transfer earliness in our local high yielding varieties or can be used as a cultivar for the hills where there is problem of ripening of grains due to early advent of winters and growing these kinds','-','Roy, D. and Pandey, I.D. (2021). Indexing of IRRI-Global Rice Array Genotypes for Earliness to Meet the Challenges of Climate Change. Biological Forum â€“ An International Journal, 13(3): 105-110.'),(3000,'102','GIS based Soil Fertility Maps of Chambal Division of Madhya Pradesh, India','T.C. Yadav, Y.P. Singh, Akhilesh Singh, Shashi S. Yadav, S.R. Jakhar and D. Choubey','22 GIS based Soil Fertility Maps of Chambal Division of Madhya Pradesh, India T.C. Yadav.pdf','',1,'Information to regarding spatial variability and distribution of soil characteristic is critical to increase use efficiency of nutrients and desire crop productivity for farming communities. Application of nutrients on the basis of soil characteristics maps connected with fertilizers recommendation may aid to curtail fertilizers input without surrendering the crop yield. For assessing the variability in soils fertility status using geo-statistical approaches, total 90 GPS based surface (0-15 cm) soil samples were collected from three districts (Morena, Bhind and Sheopur) of Chambal division after crop harvest, during rabi season 2019-20. The results revealed that pH, EC, OC and CaCO3 of soils varied from 5.80 to 8.65, 0.12 to 0.89 dSm-1, 1.50 to 10.20 g kg-1 and 1.0 to 65 g kg-1 soil, respectively. Whereas, available N, P, K and S in soils ranged from 71.25 to 348 kg ha-1, 7.14 to 92.12 kg ha-1, 60 to 620 kg ha-1 and 0 to 72 mg kg-1, respectively. The deficiency of N, S, and Zn were fo','Geo-statistical approach, NUE, Soil quality, Productivity.','Soils of Chambal division were found neutral to slightly acidic to alkaline in reaction, safe in electrical conductivity, deficient to medium in organic carbon, non-calcareous in nature, extent of N deficiency in soils samples were to the extent of 83.41 % and extent of K excess in soils samples were to the extent of 89.76 % and extent of Cu, Mn and B excess in soils samples were to the extent of 98.59, 94.37 and 76.06 per cent, respectively. Application of fertilizers on the basis of soil characteristics maps associated with fertilizers recommendation may aid to curtail fertilizers input without surrendering the crop yield.','-','Yadav, T.C., Singh, Y.P., Singh, A., Yadav, S.S., Jakhar, S.R. and Choubey, D. (2021). GIS based Soil Fertility Maps of Chambal division of Madhya Pradesh, India. Biological Forum â€“ An International Journal, 13(3): 111-117.'),(3001,'102','Enhancing Groundwater Recharge by Implementations of various Agricultural Water Intervention Structures-A Case Study in Bundelkhand Region, Central India','K.N. Singh, D. Khalkho, R. Singh and M.P. Tripathi','23 Enhancing Groundwater Recharge by Implementations of various Agricultural Water Intervention Structures-A Case Study in Bundelkhand Region, Central India K.N. Singh.pdf','',1,'Water has been, is and will be most important natural resource for mankind. Such natural resource management becomes an important concern for 21st century due to high demand of water by rapidly increasing human population. Bundelkhand region is a hub of drought in Central India due to its erratic rainfall, hard rock terrains of archaen granite, absence of water interventions, undulating and rugged topography, dissected land, multidirectional slopes, highly eroded and shallow soil depth (25-150 cm). The study of last 20 years (2000-2019) reveals that 10 are severe drought years, 5 normal and 5 excess rainfall years. Most of the rainfall portion around >90% is received between June to September. Thus lack of agricultural water intervention structures, it was converted into runoff and generated drought for remaining period of the year. Around 85-90 % wells were dried in the region due to absence of groundwater recharge. In this way, this study was carried out for assessing the effect of v','GKD watershed, RS and GIS, Rainfall, water interventions. ','Remote sensing and GIS based agricultural water interventions were found most effective and sustainable due to suitable site selection. These interventions generated approximately 25000 m3 water which was found sufficient for mankind and their activities. Adoptive method (Water table fluctuation) for groundwater recharge is a well accepted and convenient in hard-rock regions (Sharda et al., 2006; Dewandel et al., 2010; Glendenning and Vervoort 2010; Garg and Wani, 2012; Singh et al., 2014). Result of groundwater recharge reveals that adoptive technology was relevant and also satisfactory which supports to enhance the groundwater recharge for fulfil the requirements of mankind. Thus, this technology and method will be supportive for researchers and hydrologist to assessing the water scarcity problems and their solutions. Hence, such interventions and technology should be scaled up in other drought prone and semi-arid regions.','-','Singh, K.N., Khalkho, D., Singh, R. and Tripathi, M.P. (2021). Enhancing Groundwater Recharge by Implementations of various Agricultural Water Intervention Structures-A Case Study in Bundelkhand Region, Central India. Biological Forum â€“ An International'),(3002,'102','Effect of different Plant Growth Regulators on Growth, Canopy and Flowering of Litchi (Litchi chinensis Sonn.) cv Purvi','Aditya Gaurha, V.M. Prasad, Vijay Bahadur and Samir E. Topno','24 Effect of different Plant Growth Regulators on Growth, Canopy and Flowering of Litchi _Litchi chinensis Sonn._ cv Purvi Aditya.pdf','',1,'In present study of different levels of foliar application in Litchi was carried out in Horticulture Research Farm, Shuats, Prayagraj, UP, India for different levels of plant growth regulators. GA3 (30 and 50ppm), NAA (30 and 50ppm) and CCC (30 and 50 ppm) have significant effect on plant height. The maximum plant height (132.62, 140.29, 150.22, 157.80, 165.21 and 191.01) at 30, 60, 90, 120, 150 and 180 DAT was found in T2 50 ppm (GA3) followed by T130 ppm (GA3). The maximum plant canopy (45.25, 49.50, 53.29, 58.46, 68.43 and 88.18) at 30, 60, 90, 120, 150 and 180 DAT was found in T2 50 ppm (GA3) followed by T130 ppm (GA3). Maximum chlorophyll (67.70SPAD meter) was found in T2 50 ppm (GA3) followed by T130 ppm (GA3), T450 ppm (NAA). The maximum number of panicle per plant (9.34) was found in T250 ppm (GA3) followed by T130 ppm (GA3). The research conducted will help to evaluate the better growth regulator for canopy and flowering in litchi .This will in turn help the plant to','Chlorophyll, Plant Height, NAA, Significant.','Thus it can be concluded that the maximum number of panicle per plant (9.34) was found in T2 50 ppm (GA3) followed by T130 ppm (GA3), T450 ppm (NAA), T330 ppm (NAA) and T650 ppm (CCC). However minimum number of panicle per plant (6.55) was recorded T530 ppm (CCC). Thus these treatment will happen for the better management of canopy and flowering in Litchi.','-','Gaurha, A., Prasad, V.M., Bahadur, V. and Topno, S.E. (2021). Effect of different Plant Growth Regulators on Growth, Canopy and Flowering of Litchi (Litchi chinensis Sonn.) cv Purvi. Biological Forum â€“ An International Journal, 13(3): 123-126.'),(3003,'102','Evaluation of Fish Catch in Potential Fishing Zones (PFZs) off Veraval Coast, Gujarat','V.M. Chavda, D.T. Vaghela, H.V. Parmar and P.V. Parmar','25 Evaluation of Fish Catch in Potential Fishing Zones _PFZs_ off Veraval Coast, Gujarat V. M. Chavda.pdf','',1,'Oceanographic features such as thermal fronts, eddies, gyres, currents and nutrient rich upwelling areas attract certain fish assemblages or affect their distribution. Remote sensing tool can be attempted for optimal harvest of fishery resources as well as to make fishing operation viable through potential fishing zone forecast. Satellite based sea surface temperature (SST) and chlorophyll images were utilized in the present study to locate Potential Fishing Zones (PFZ). Indian National Center for Ocean Information Services (INCOIS) provides satellite-based potential fishing zones (PFZs) forecasts using integration of Ocean Colour derived chlorophyll concentration and Advanced Very High Resolution Radiometer (AVHRR) derived sea surface temperatures (SST). In the present study evaluation of fish catch was carried out during 2017 â€“ 2018 using commercial fishing vessels off Veraval coast at 20 to 50m depth in PFZ demarcated and non-PFZ areas using trawl net. Species-wise CPUE were compa','PFZ, Potential fishing zone, SST, Chlorophyll, CPUE, Veraval coast.','Affinity towards oceanographic features and trophic interactions play important role for distribution and availability of desired fish species in the sea. Fish catch in potential fishing zone remains higher compared to random fishing at sea. Catch composition remained in favour of valued species like Clupeids, Carangids, Trichurus, Scombrids in PFZs, which provide higher returns for the given operation cost of fishing vessel. The fishing methods, price behaviour of marine fish varieties remains main factors for economic performance of fishing operation','-','Chavda, V.M., Vaghela, D.T., Parmar, H.V. and Parmar, P.V. (2021). Evaluation of Fish Catch in Potential Fishing Zones (PFZs) off Veraval Coast, Gujarat. Biological Forum â€“ An International Journal, 13(3): 127-133.'),(3004,'102','Effect of Priming with Organics and Botanicals on Seed Quality Parameters of Greengram (Vigna radiata L. Wilczek) var. samrat under Salinity Stress conditions','Vangala Navya, Arun Kumar Chaurasia, Anita Kerketta, Anand Warghat and Patti Tejasree','26 Effect of Priming with Organics and Botanicals on Seed Quality Parameters of Greengram _Vigna radiata L. Wilczek_ var. samrat under Salinity Stress conditions Vangala Navya.pdf','',1,'Food legumes constitute important ingredient of Indian diet as they supply nutrients and essential amino acids. Moong bean is one among the important food legumes with cultivated acreage area of around three million hectares. Legumes are highly sensitive to the abiotic factors like temperature, nutrient deficiency, moisture stress and salinity stress conditions. Keeping this in view, the present study was carried out in seed testing laboratory of the department of genetics and plant breeding, SHUATS, Prayagraj. Seed priming with organics panchagvya and bheejamrutha and botanicals sea weed extract and curry leaf extract was assessed for seed quality parameters under the various salinity stress conditions of 0mM, 150mM and 250 mM on samrat variety of greengram. Seed priming under various salinity stress conditions with the above cited treatments recorded significant variation with the untreated control. The treatment combination T2S0- Panchagavya at 9% for 12 hrs at 0mM NaCl stress level','Botanicals, Moisture stress, Organics, Priming and Salinity stress.','The results depicts that the performance of untreated control and treatments gradually reduced with the increased salinity stress concentrations; seed priming favors for proper germination and better seedling establishment under salinity stress conditions to a certain extent depending on type of treatment and its dosage.\r\nInteraction of T2S0- Panchagavya at 9% for 12 hrs at 0mM NaCl stress levels found to be promising with germination of 86.250%, 36.775 cm seedling length, 2.150 g fresh weight, 0.560 g dry weight, 2923.85 seedling vigour index-i and 48.298 vigour index-ii and can be recommended as a seed primer in green gram under salinity stress conditions. \r\n','-','Navya, V., Chaurasia, A.K., Kerketta, A., Warghat, A. and Tejasree, P. (2021). Effect of Priming with Organics and Botanicals on Seed Quality Parameters of Greengram (Vigna radiata L. Wilczek) var. samrat under Salinity Stress conditions. Biological Forum'),(3005,'102','Effect of Sulphur and Row Spacing on Growth and Yield of Yellow Mustard (Sinapis alba)','Potluri Pavan Kumar, Rajesh Singh, Wasim Khan and Shivakumar Naik E.','27 Effect of Sulphur and Row Spacing on Growth and Yield of Yellow Mustard _Sinapis alba_ Potluri Pavan Kumar.pdf','',1,'A field study was carried out at Crop Research Farm, Department of Agronomy, Naini Agriculture Institute, SHUATS, Prayagraj (U.P.) in Rabi 2020 to study the effect of sulphur and row spacing on development and yield of yellow mustard. Sulphur plays a vital part in chemical composition of seed and increases the percentage of oil content of seed. The experimental site was uniform in topography and sandy loam in texture, nearly neutral in soil reaction (pH 7.1), low in Organic carbon (0.38%), medium available N 225 kg ha-1, higher available P 19.50 kg ha-1 and medium available K 213.7 kg ha-1. The treatments which are Sulphur levels at (30 kg S/ha, 45 kg S/ha and 60 kg S/ha) and spacing (40Ã—20 cm, 50Ã—20 cm and 60Ã—20 cm) was used. The research was placed out in Randomized Block Design through nine treatments each replicated thrice. Between all the treatments, application of 60 kg S with 60 cm row spacing noted maximum plant height (96.38 cm), branches (13.33), dry weight (19.28 g), sili','Yellow Mustard, Sulphur (S), Row Spacing, siliquae and seed yield.','On basis of present research, suggests that application of 60 kg S/ha + Spacing 60Ã—20 cm resulted highest plant height (96.38 cm), number of branches per plant (13.33), siliquae/plant (139.33), seeds/siliquae (43.09) where as application of Sulphur (S) 60 kg/ha + Spacing 40Ã—20 cm resulted maximum seed yield of (1.60 t/ha), stover yield (5.92 t/ha) and harvest index (22.38 %).','-','Kumar, P.P., Singh, R., Khan, W. and Shivakumar Naik E. (2021). Effect of Sulphur and Row Spacing on Growth and Yield of Yellow Mustard (Sinapis alba). Biological Forum â€“ An International Journal, 13(3): 139-143.'),(3006,'102','Impact of Row Spacing on Growth and Yield of Cluster bean (Cyamopsis tetragonoloba L.) Varieties','Daksh Bishnoi, Umesha C. and Chandra Shekhar Sharma','28 Impact of Row Spacing on Growth and Yield of Cluster bean _Cyamopsis tetragonoloba L. Varieties Daksh Bishnoi.pdf','',1,'The field experiment was conducted during Kharif 2020 at Research Farm, Krishi Vigyan Kendra, Sangaria, Hanumangarh (Rajasthan). The treatment consists of three different row spacing of (30 cm, 45 cm and 60 cm) and three different varieties HG 2-20, HG 365 and RGC 1002, whose effect was observed on Cluster bean. The experiment was laid out in Randomized Block Design in which consist of nine treatments which are replicated thrice. The result showed that seeds of variety HG 365 sown with 45 cm row line up significantly increased the growth parameters of cluster bean viz, plant height (119.13 cm), Dry weight (36.11 g/plant), number of branches (10.00), number of leaves (299.73). Also in yield, Variety HG 365 sown in 45 cm row line up showed significantly excessive pods per plant (53.73), total seed weight (1075.67 kg/ha), stalk yield (2581.60 kg/ha), Gross profit (69703`/ha), Net profit (50398`/ha), Benefit cost ratio (3.61) followed by variety HG 2-20 with 60 cm row spacing. The higher h','Cluster bean, Row Spacing, Variety, Growth.','The variety HG 365 along with 45 cm row line up achieved higher plant height, figure of branches per plant, leaves per plant, anhydrous basis, pods for each plant, seed mass per hectare & stalk yield per hectare followed by variety HG 2-20 sown with 60 cm row line up. But, variety RGC 1002 found superior in both harvest index and test weight. There is no significant difference in test weight due to row arrangements. Among the results we concluded that, variety HG 365 gave significant production with 45 cm row space arranging and variety HG 2-20 shows notably result under 60 cm row line up sowing.','-','Bishnoi, D., Umesha C. and Sharma, C.S. (2021). Impact of Row Spacing on Growth and Yield of Cluster bean (Cyamopsis tetragonoloba L.) Varieties. Biological Forum â€“ An International Journal, 13(3): 144-148.'),(3007,'102','Validation of Yield Associated Phenological Components of Finger Millet in Context of Bastar Plateau Agroecological Zone','Ajay Yadav and Prafull Kumar','29 Validation of Yield Associated Phenological Components of Finger Millet in Context of Bastar Plateau Agroecological Zone Ajay Yadav.pdf','',1,'The field study was conducted at Research cum Instructional Farm, S.G. College of Agriculture and Research Station, Kumhrawand, Jagdalpur, IGKV, Raipur (C.G.), in Kharif -2020, in Augmented Block Design to evaluate 54 accessions including 4 checks of finger millet (Eleusine coracana L. Gaertn). The observations of 5 qualitative and 12 quantitative characters were recorded at different stages of plant growth from flowering stage to harvest, according to the Guidelines for the test of DUS on Finger millet by PPV& FRA, Government of India. Increasing global population, a major challenge to plant breeders to secure the projected food demand by increasing the current yield of important food crops. Finger millet is a valuable grain crop with good nutraceutical qualities, a long storage period, and the ability to thrive in arid and semi-arid environments. Correlation analysis revealed that the grain weight per plot was positively and significantly correlated with fodder weight per plot (0.827','Finger millet, correlation, path coefficient analysis, augmented block design.','Grain weight per plot showed highest significant positive association with Fodder yield per plot (0.827**), 1000 grain weight (0.364**), finger width (0.250**) at 1% level of significance and number of fingers on main ear (0.340*), ear weight per plant (0.320*), finger length (0.299*) at 5% level of significance. Days to 50 percent flowering showed positive direct effect on grain weight plot-1 (1.751) and indirect effect on grain weight through fodder weight per plot (0.123), finger width (0.006), finger number on main ear (0.005), number of productive tillers per plant (0.001). Finger width showed a positive direct effect on grain weight plot-1 (0.122) and indirectly positive effect on fodder weight per plot (0.131), 1000 grain weight (0.118), days to 50 percent flowering (0.087) and finger number on main ear (0.005).','-','Yadav, A. and Kumar, P. (2021). Validation of Yield Associated Phenological Components of Finger Millet in Context of Bastar Plateau Agroecological Zone. Biological Forum â€“ An International Journal, 13(3): 149-154.'),(3008,'34','Surveillance of Genetically Modified Microoganisms in the Environment','Surendar Kumar','52 Surveillance of Genetically Modified Microoganisms in the Environment DR SURENDER KUMAR.pdf','',1,'','','','',''),(3009,'92','Long Term Effects of Weather Parameters on Crop Yield in Mango and Citrus under Una District of Himachal Pradesh','Vikas Kumar Sharma, Karan Kumar, Som Dev Sharma and M.A. Kuchay','109 Long Term Effects of Weather Parameters on Crop Yield in Mango and Citrus under Una District of Himachal Pradesh VIKASH SHARMA.pdf','',1,'The unplanned fruit plantation mostly leads to unprofitable venturing, and this has been the main reason that fruit cultivation in the subtropical region of Himachal Pradesh has not picked up despite huge potential. It is imperative to consider the micro-climatic scenario of any given niche for proper crop planning. To reap the optimum potential and achieve desired production levels in fruit production proper analysis of prevalent conditions is of utmost importance. The phenological stages of fruit crops along with changes in air temperature and rainfall are the most important factors for their production. Different fruit species are influenced differently due to varying levels of adaptability with varying climate change. Data on three weather parameters i.e. maximum temperature, minimum temperature and rainfall along with fruit production in mango and citrus pertaining to Una district of Himachal Pradesh were acquired for the period of 2004-2018. Effects of weather parameters on fru','Weather parameters, crop yield, correlation, regression, physiographic maps.','It can be concluded that weather parameters viz., maximum temperature minimum temperature and rainfall influence fruit production. The regression models fit well for weather parameters and production of mango and citrus crops. The multiple linear regression analysis revealed weakly positive significant relationship between fruit production and weather parameters in case of mango whereas, in citrus it shows positively significant value. In individual regression models as well as multiple linear regression model, equations fit in the fruit production to the optimum level. Correlation coefficient of fruit production exhibited significant correlation with maximum temperature.\r\nTherefore, further consistent observations on changes in weather parameters and their effects on the production of horticultural as well as agricultural crops are of paramount importance. \r\n','-','Sharma, V. K., Kumar, K., Sharma, S. D. and Kuchay, M. A. (2021). Long Term Effects of Weather Parameters on Crop Yield in Mango and Citrus under Una District of Himachal Pradesh. Biological Forum â€“ An International Journal, 13(1): 756-761.'),(3010,'102','Effect of Sulphur Levels on Growth and Yield of different Varieties of Sesame (Sesamum indicum L.)','Shahazad Ahmed Khan, Umesha C. and S.K. Karimunnisa','30 Effect of Sulphur Levels on Growth and Yield of different varieties of Sesame _Sesamum indicum L. SHAHAZAD KHAN.pdf','',1,'A field experiment was conducted in Kharif 2020 at Crop Research Farm (CRF), Department of Agronomy, SHUATS, Prayagraj (U. P.). The soil of experimental plot was sandy loam in texture, nearly neutral in soil reaction (pH 7.1), low in organic carbon (0.36%) available N (171.48 kg/ha), available P (15.2 kg/ha) and available K (232.5 kg/ha). Sulphur (S) is crucial for the growth and development, plays a significant role in plant metabolism, indispensible for the synthesis of necessary oils, plays a vital role in chlorophyll production. The treatments which are T1: G. Til 1+ 25 kg/ha S, T2: G. Til 1+ 35 kg/ha S, T3: G. Til 1 + 45 kg/ha S, T4: G. Til 4+ 25 kg/ha S, T5: G. Til 4+ 35 kg/ha S, T6: G. Til 4+ 45 kg/ha S, T7: Pragati + 25 kg/ha S, T8: Pragati + 35 kg/ha S, T9: Pragati + 45 kg/ha S used. The experiment was laid out in Randomized Block Design with nine treatments each replicated thrice. The results showed that viz: plant height (125.21 cm), maximum dry weight (19.48 g) and number o','Sesame, Sulphur (S), Varieties, G. Til 1, G. Til 4, Pragati.','Based on the findings of the investigation it may be concluded that variety pragati + 45 kg/ha Sulphur performed exceptionally in all growth and yield parameters and in obtaining maximum seed yield of sesame. Hence, pragati + 45 kg/ha Sulphur is beneficial under eastern Uttar Pradesh conditions. ','-','Khan, S.A., Umesha C., Karimunnisa, S.K. (2021). Effect of Sulphur Levels on Growth and Yield of different varieties of Sesame (Sesamum indicum L.). Biological Forum â€“ An International Journal, 13(3): 155-158.'),(3011,'102','Effect of Foliar Application of bio-regulators (GA3 and NAA) on Vegetative Growth characters and Establishment of Lemon Citrus limon (L.) cv. Eureka under Subtropical Prayagraj Agro Climatic Condition','Payel Das, V.M. Prasad, Vijay Bahadur, Samir E. Topno and V.S.K. Keerthan Paruchuru','31 Effect of Foliar Application of bio-regulators _GA3 and NAA_ on Vegetative Growth characters and Establishment of Lemon Citrus limon _L._ cv. Eureka under Subtropical Prayagraj Agro Climatic ConPayel Das.pdf','',1,'To improve the vegetative growth of the eureka lemon, studies were performed to standardize\r\nthe doses of bio-regulators (GA3 and NAA), experiment was carried out during 2020 September to 2021\r\nFebruary in an open field, Central Research Farm, Department of Horticulture, from, Sam Higginbottom\r\nUniversity of Agriculture, Technology and Sciences, Prayagraj. The experimental field was laid out in a\r\nrandomized block design (RBD) with nine treatments of different concentrations of two kinds of bio\r\nregulators, namely NAA and GA3 with just one variety replicated thrice. The variety used in this experiment\r\nwas Eureka Lemon. The experiment comprised eight foliar applications consisting of GA3 @ 10 ppm l-1, 15\r\nppm l-1, 20 ppm l-1, 25 ppm l-1; NAA @ 20 ppm l-1, 30 ppm l-1, 40 ppm l-1, 50 ppm l-1 with Control. Experiment\r\nresults revealed that the imposition of different treatments had a significant effect on improving vegetative\r\ngrowth and establishment of the eureka lemon plants. The resul','Eureka lemon, Seedlings, GA3, NAA, Bio-regulators, vegetative growth, establishment.','From the foregoing discussion it can be concluded that\r\namong the different suitable doses of NAA and GA3\r\ntreatment T8 NAA @ 50 ppm l-1 significantly bore\r\nmaximum number of leaves, branches, stem girth and\r\nplant spread, whereas treatment T4 GA3@ 25 ppm l-1\r\ngave significantly taller plants, maximum of\r\nchlorophyll content. Overall, treatment T8 NAA @ 50\r\nppm l-1 showed better result in the term of vegetative\r\ngrowth. Hence, for better growth and establishment it is\r\nrecommended to apply the foliar application of bioregulators\r\nat initial stage of eureka lemon seedlings\r\nunder Prayagraj agro-climatic conditions.','-','Das, P., Prasad, V.M., Bahadur, V., Topno, S.E. and Paruchuru, V.S.K.K. (2021). Effect of Foliar\r\nApplication of bio-regulators (GA3 and NAA) on Vegetative Growth characters and Establishment of Lemon Citrus limon (L.)\r\ncv. Eureka under Subtropical Prayag'),(3012,'102','Assessment of Genetic Variation and Heritability for Morpho-agronomic Traits in Mungbean Germplasm under Cold Stress','Sasmita Dash, Devraj Lenka, Swapan Kumar Tripathy and Manasi Dash','32 Assessment of Genetic Variation and Heritability for Morpho-agronomic Traits in Mungbean Germplasm under Cold Stress Swapan Kumar Tripathy.pdf','',1,'Cold stress during early stage of crop growth badly affects the survival of plants and drastically reduces the seed yield. Therefore, a set of 230 genotypes of mungbean were assessed for genetic variability, heritability, genetic advance for yield and related ancillary traits over two locations in winter season. The test germplasm lines revealed significant variability for all the traits. The estimates of PCV were higher than GCV for all characters under study and the deviation was comparatively more in case of single plant seed yield suggesting greater influence of G Ã— E interaction. The broad sense heritability estimates were found higher in number of days to 50% flowering, plant height, 100-seed weight, pod length and seeds per pod. Higher estimates of heritability along with extremely high genetic advance was observed for number of clusters per plant indicating major role of additive gene action. Such component trait-specific selection would be rewarding for enhancement of yield p','Genetic variability, heritability, genetic advance, seed yield, yield related traits, cold stress, mungbean ','The present findings would be helpful for formulation of selection strategy for identification of parent materials in a set of germplasm lines as well as selection of elite plant types in mungbean breeding programme under cold stress.','-','Dash, S., Lenka, D., Tripathy, S. K. and Dash, M. (2021). Assessment of Genetic Variation and Heritability for Morpho-agronomic Traits in Mungbean Germplasm under Cold Stress. Biological Forum â€“ An International Journal, 13(3): 163-167.'),(3013,'102','Influence of Crop Rotation on Disease Incidence and Population Dynamics of Ginger Wilt inciting Pathogen (Ralstonia solanacearum) under Organic Management Practice in Hill Zone of West Bengal','Rakesh Yonzone, Surajit Khalko, B.R. Sharma, P.M. Bhattacharya, S. Bandyopadhyay, S. Hembram and Bimal Das','33 Influence of Crop Rotation on Disease Incidence and Population Dynamics of Ginger Wilt inciting Pathogen _Ralstonia solanacearum_ under Organic Management Practice in Hill Zone of West Bengal R. Yonzone.pdf','',1,'Bacterial wilt disease of ginger also known as â€œGreen wilt diseaseâ€ caused by Ralstonia\r\nsolanacearum is one of the destructive pathogen causing huge yield losses. Ginger in hill zone of West Bengal\r\nare mostly grown organically and infection of R. solanacearum if accompanied by favorable environmental\r\ncondition can result in complete failure of crop growth and production. Due to unavailability of proper\r\norganic management practices, farmers are now replacing cultivation of ginger with other crops. A field\r\nstudies were carried out during 2019 and 2020 under organic management practices with the Rabi crops\r\nwhich are commonly grown in the hill-agro ecological region of West Bengal to determine the effect of ginger\r\nbased cropping system on the Ralstonia population load, disease intensity and yield of the crop. Among the six\r\n(06) treatments under study ginger rotation with cabbage showed marked reduction in the population of R.\r\nsolanacearum as compared to the population load in ','Bacterial wilt, Ralstonia solanacearum, Ginger, Crop rotation, Disease incidence.','The results obtained from the above experiment shows\r\nthat the ginger rotation with cabbage and marigold had\r\na significant influence in reducing the R. solanacearum\r\npopulation, minimizing disease incidence and\r\nincreasing the rhizome yield of ginger. Therefore, these\r\ncrops can be incorporated in cropping sequence to order\r\nreduce the disease incidence of R. solanacearum under\r\norganic management practices.','-','Yonzone, R., Khalko, S., Sharma, B.R., Bhattacharya, P.M., Bandyopadhyay, S., Hembram, S., and\r\nDas, B. (2021). Influence of Crop Rotation on Disease Incidence and Population Dynamics of Ginger Wilt inciting Pathogen\r\n(Ralstonia solanacearum) under Organi'),(3014,'102','Rapid Diagnosis of Fibrosarcoma in a Dog by using Fine Needle Aspiration Cytology (FNAC)','T. Nagendra Reddy and P. Amaravathi','34 Rapid Diagnosis of Fibrosarcoma in a Dog by using Fine Needle Aspiration Cytology _FNAC_ T. Nagendra Reddy.pdf','',1,'A 13 years old, male, mongrel dog was presented with a history of swelling on the left frontal aspect of the head and above the orbital region of the eye. Since 12 days the mass was increasing day by day and lead to pressing of eye ball. On clinical examination, the mass was felt hard and pain less. Biopsy was done using 22 gauze fine needle and made smears for cytological examination. The smears were stained with routine Giemsa stain. On microscopy, the fine needle aspiration cytology (FNAC) stained smears were revealed pleomorphic fibrocytes with prominent nucleoli. Based on above findings the swollen mass was diagnosed as fibrosarcoma. Most of the fibrosarcoma cases are come to the clinic in last stage of cancerous growth. Prognosis of the fibrosarcoma cases were poor even after starting treatment protocols. The response to treatment will be poor in old aged dogs and local recurrence is common. FNAC method can detect early stages of fibrosarcoma. It requires dog owner attention to ','Fibrosarcoma, Fine needle aspiration cytology (FNAC), Fibrocytes, Giemsa stain, Biopsy.','The Fine-needle aspiration cytology (FNAC) is commonly used as a diagnostic procedure to evaluate superficial and deep masses in animals. Most of the fibrosarcoma cases are from middle and old aged dogs come to clinic in last stage of cancerous growth. Prognosis of the fibrosarcoma cases were poor even after starting treatment protocols and local recurrence is common. FNAC method can detect and differentiate early stages of fibrosarcoma from abscess and hematoma. The study concluded that FNAC is most reliable and rapid diagnostic tool for detection of cancerous masses in animals.','-','Reddy, T.N. and Amaravathi, P. (2021). Rapid Diagnosis of Fibrosarcoma in a Dog by using Fine Needle Aspiration Cytology (FNAC). Biological Forum â€“ An International Journal, 13(3): 174-176.'),(3015,'102','Effect of Phosphate Solubulizing Bacteria (PSB) and Levels of Phosphorus on Growth and Yield of Greengram (Vigna radiata L.)','Gopagoni Sumanth and Shikha Singh','35 Effect of Phosphate Solubulizing Bacteria _PSB_ and Levels of Phosphorus on Growth and Yield of Greengram _Vigna radiata L._ Gopagoni Sumanth.pdf','',1,'The present study aimed to evaluate the effect of phosphate solubulizing bacteria and phosphorus levels on growth and yield of greengram (var. â€œWGG-42â€) conducted during the kharif 2020 at Prakasam Krishi Vigyan Kendra (KVK), Jayaprakashnagar, Jammikunta, Karimnagar District-505122 Telangana. The experiment was laid out in Randomized Block Design with 9 treatments which included 3 levels of PSB (0%, 0.5% and 1%) and 3 levels of phosphorus (20kg, 40kg and 60kg) which replicated thrice. The treatment receiving PSB 1% and 20kg phosphorus produced significantly higher plant height (40.17cm), number of nodules/plant (21.73), number of branches/plant (5.93), plant dry weight (8.90g), crop growth Rate (4.51g/m2/day), relative growth rate (0.017g/g/day), number of pods/plant (37.70), test weight (37.70g), seed yield (1440.00kg/ha), stover yield (2400.66kg/ha), harvest index (40.02), gross return (97,920.00 INR/ha) net return (69,964.60 INR/ha), and B:C ratio (2.50). This experiment shows ','Mungbean, PSB and phosphorus.','Based on the findings it may be concluded that for optimum Seed yield and economics, the performance of Mungbean at PSB â€“ 1% + Phosphorus â€“ 20kg/ha is the best. The conclusion drawn based on the one season data only which require further conformation for recommendation.','-','Sumanth, G. and Singh, S. (2021). Effect of Phosphate Solubulizing Bacteria (PSB) and Levels of Phosphorus on Growth and Yield of Greengram (Vigna radiata L.). Biological Forum â€“ An International Journal, 13(3): 177-181.'),(3023,'92','Correlation and Genetic Divergence Studies of Cauliflower (Brassica oleracea var. botrytis) under Lower Hilly Region of Himachal Pradesh','Dharminder Kumar, Deepali Chaudhary, Ramesh Bhardwaj, Rajesh Dogra, Aanchal Chauhan, Sandeep Kumar, Kumari Shiwani and V.G.S. Chandel','110 Correlation and Genetic Divergence Studies of Cauliflower _Brassica oleracea var. botrytis_ under Lower Hilly Region of Himachal Pradesh Dharminder Kumar.pdf','',1,'Availability of diverse parental lines is of paramount importance for crop improvement, thus an attempt was made to estimate the association of characters and genetic divergence between twenty five cauliflower genotypes. Significant variations were observed for almost all the traits. Net curd weight had the highest positive significant correlation with the curd yield indicating that the net curd weight is the optimum parameter for selection of high yielding genotypes. However, days to marketable maturity imposed negative non significant correlation on curd yield. Among the twenty five genotypes curd yield (kg/plot and q/ha) was greater in local genotypes namely Jachh CF-2, Jachh CF-7 and Jachh CF-17, hence these local varieties can be utilized in further breeding programmes. It was found that cluster I and cluster V were most divergent due to presence of maximum inter cluster distance between them. Therefore, they can be used for further breeding programmes such as hybridization. ','Cauliflower, Correlation, Genetic divergence, Path analysis, Yield','Net curd weight had the highest positive significant correlation with the curd yield indicating that the net curd weight is the optimum parameter for selection of high yielding genotypes. This study revealed highest positive direct effect of harvest index on curd yield. Twenty five genotypes were classified into five clusters on the basis of D2 analysis. It was found that cluster I and cluster V were most divergent due to presence of maximum inter cluster distance between them.\r\nTherefore, they can be used for further breeding programmes such as hybridization. The highest intra cluster distance in cluster I depicted presence of high heterogeneity.\r\n','-','Kumar, D., Chaudhary, D., Bhardwaj, R., Dogra, R., Chauhan, A., Kumar, S., Shiwani, K. and Chandel, V.G.S. (2021). Correlation and Genetic Divergence Studies of Cauliflower (Brassica oleracea var. botrytis) under Lower Hilly Region of Himachal Pradesh. B'),(3024,'102','Impact of Sulphur and Zinc Levels on Growth and Yield of Maize (Zea mays L.)','Rajat Kumar, Umesha C., Meshram, M.R. and Sanodiya, L.K.','36 Impact of Sulphur and Zinc Levels on Growth and Yield of Maize Zea Mays L. Rajat Kumar.pdf','',1,'A field experiment was conducted during Kharif season 2020 at SHUATS university Allahabad, (U.P.). The soil of experiment plot was sandy loam in texture, nearly neutral in soil reaction (pH 7.2), 0.35% organic carbon, 203.7 kg ha-1 nitrogen, 7.2 kg ha-1 available phosphorus. The effect of sulphur and zinc levels growth and yield of maize (Zea mays L.) nine treatment consisted of three levels of Sulphur (15, 25 and 35 kg ha-1) and Zinc (0.5% foliar application, 25 kgha-1 soil application and 20 kg/ha+ 0.5 % foliar application). In the experiments nitrogen was applied in two split doses 50% as basal and 50% as top dressing at 40 DAS and entire dose of phosphorous, potassium and sulphur were applied as basal and where foliar application of zinc were applied at 20 and 35 DAS. There were nine treatments which replicated thrice. The experiment was laid out in Randomized Block Design. The result showed that there was significant increase in growth and yield parameters viz., plant height (1','Sulphur, Zinc, Yield, Maize.','At above research, it may concluded that in Maize crop the application of Sulphur 35 kg/ha + Zinc 20 kg/ha (Soil application) + Zinc 0.5 % (Foliar application) is the best combination for obtaining better growth attributes like plant height, number of leaves/plant, dry weight and higher yield attributes of hybrid maize like number of cob/plant, cob length (cm), number of grain/cob, seed index (g), grain yield (t/ha), stover yield (t/ha), and can be recommended to the farmers of Allahabad region for sustaining productivity and profitability of maize.','-','Kumar, R., Umesha, C., Meshram, M.R. and Sanodiya, L.K. (2021). Impact of Sulphur and Zinc Levels on Growth and Yield of Maize (Zea mays L.). Biological Forum â€“ An International Journal, 13(3): 182-186.'),(3025,'102','Direct and Residual Impact of Nutrient Management through Organic and Inorganic Sources on Growth and Yield Attributes in Brinjalâ€“fenugreek Cropping Sequence','Shahnaz Mufti, M.A. Chattoo, Rakshanda Anayat, Rehana Rasool and Fouzea Nisar','37 Direct and Residual Impact of Nutrient Management through Organic and Inorganic Sources on Growth and Yield Attributes in Brinjal fenugreek Cropping Sequence Shahnaz Mufti.pdf','',1,'A field experiment was conducted at experimental site of Division of Vegetable Science, SKUAST-Kashmir during two consecutive years of 2016 & 2017. The experiment consisted of thirteen treatments which was carried out in Randomized Complete Block Design with three replications. Observations for growth and yield attributes were recorded in the main crop- brinjal as well as in the residual crop- fenugreek. Higher values for days to first fruit picking (53.40), plant height (126.51 cm), number of branches plant-1 (7.06), number of fruits plant-1 (16.50), fruit length (13.41 cm), fruit diameter (7.96cm), average fruit weight (65.65g), fruit yield plant-1 (1.08 kg), fruit yield hectare-1 (395.42 q), duration of fruiting (92.16) were recorded in treatment T9 (50% RFD + 50% PM) for main crop. For residual crop, growth and yield parameters viz., maximum plant height (34.01cm), maximum number of branches plant-1 (5.40), minimum harvest days (132.53 days), maximum leaf yield plot-1 (4.23kg)',' Main crop, Brinjal, Residual crop, fenugreek, growth, yield, nutrient management technology, organic and inorganic nutrients','It is concluded that Brinjal-fenugreek cropping system is well fitted under Kashmir conditions. Among treatments under study, treatment T9 (50% RFD + 50% PM) was found to be the best treatment over rest of the treatments with respect to improvement in growth and yield attributes of main crop brinjal as well as in residual crop fenugreek. For harvesting sustainable and quality yield in brinjal, a grower can adopt following nutrient schedule:-50% RFD+50% PM, 50% RFD+50% VC. A grower can raise fenugreek as residual crop in brinjal-fenugreek cropping sequence by adopting following nutrient schedule: - 50% RFD+50% PM - 50% RFD+50% VC.','-','Mufti, S., Chattoo, M.A., Anayat, R., Rasool, R. and Nisar, F. (2021). Direct and Residual Impact of Nutrient Management through Organic and Inorganic Sources on Growth and Yield Attributes in Brinjalâ€“fenugreek Cropping Sequence. Biological Forum â€“ An'),(3026,'102','Impact of SRI Components on Growth and Productivity of Conventional Transplanted Rice','Rahul Kumar, Manish Raj, Kanhaiya Lal and Ankita Ranjan','38 Impact of SRI Components on Growth and Productivity of Conventional Transplanted Rice Kanhaiya Lal.pdf','',1,'Conventional puddled rice cultivation is labour intensive and water consumptive, while SRI addresses these issues. So, the effect of System of Rice Intensification (SRI) components studied on growth and yield of conventional transplanted kharif rice, an experiment was conducted at research farm of Bihar Agricultural University, Sabour, Bhagalpur, India during kharif 2019. The experiment was laid out in completely randomized block design with eight treatments replicated thrice. The first treatment was conventional puddled transplanted rice (CPTR), thereafter six treatments were also CPTR with an addition component of SRI in each treatment and the last treatment was sole SRI. Results revealed that all growth parameters i.e., plant height, leaf area index and dry matter accumulation obtained highest in the SRI at all growth stages. The highest grain yield (6020 kg ha-1) was recorded in the SRI, which was statistically at par with CPTR with 12 days seedling (5693 kg ha-1). The highest stra','SRI, Puddled transplanted rice, younger seedlings, Square planting.','All growth parameters as well as yield parameters were recorded highest in the SRI which was statistically at par with CPTR using 12 days old seedlings in most of the parameters. Similar trend was observed in grain yield as well as straw yield. Treatments CPTR using 12 days old seedlings and CPTR with single seedling/hill have performed well and are next to only SRI in terms of growth parameters, yield parameters and yield. Transplanting 12 days young seedlings in CPTR would be able to increase the grain yield by 7.2%, over the conventional transplanted rice with 21 days old seedlings. The SRI technique is superior regarding grain yield over the conventional practice (14% higher) but following all principles of SRI is a herculean task for farmers in some regions because of the unavailability of resources. Based on these findings, we can suggest the farmers in our country to go for partial implementation of SRI i.e., 12 days old seedling with single seedling/hill in transplanted kharif ','-','Kumar, R., Raj, M., Lal, K. and Ranjan, A. (2021). Impact of SRI Components on Growth and Productivity of Conventional Transplanted Rice. Biological Forum â€“ An International Journal, 13(3): 196-199.'),(3027,'102','Effect of Organic and Inorganic Seed Priming on Seed Quality Parameter in Chilli (Capsicum annum L.) Seeds','Ashish Kumar, A.K. Chaurasia and Marmat Sandip M.','39 Effect of Organic and Inorganic Seed Priming on Seed Quality Parameter in Chilli Capsicum annum L. Seeds Ashish Kumar.pdf','',1,'Seed priming is a pre-sowing advance activity in which seeds are moderately hydrated among the various concentration solutions to the point where pre-germination metabolism starts without actual germination. Priming could also be a cellular state during throughout that the harmful effects of abiotic stress factors in seeds/plants are hindered by pre-exposure to a stimulus, thus resulting in greater survival. Seeds are then re-dried to the actual weight for proper handling. The experiment of seed priming is conducted in the post-graduate laboratory, Department of genetics and plant breeding, Sam Higginbottom University of Agriculture, Technology & Sciences, SHUATS, Naini, Prayagraj, Uttar Pradesh during 2021 in two varieties of chilli Jyothi-72 and Pusa Sadabahar. The chilli seeds are treated with two organic and two inorganic Treatments with completely different concentrations, to find out the foremost appropriate treatment between organic and inorganic priming. Seeds were treated with','Priming, Panchagavya, Organic priming, germination percentage.','The non-identical priming treatments showed remarkable increases in the germination and vigour in chilli seeds, significantly in lab conditions. Among all the treatments Panchagavya (8%) was found to significant increased the germination and vigour in chillies in both varieties. Soaking of chilli seeds for 12 hours enhanced germinability, a vigour of chilli seeds in comparison to control. The second-best option for treatment is KNO3 (2%). In comparison between organic and inorganic priming, organic priming is better option but priming will be required in higher concentration than inorganic priming. So it can be concluded that seed priming is a simple and fruitful productive approach for upgrading stand establishment, economic yields and tolerance to biotic and abiotic stresses in numerous crops by inducement a series of biochemical, physiological, molecular and subcellular changes in plants.\r\nThe success or failure of priming treatments are influenced by a complex interlinkage of facto','-','Kumar, A., Chaurasia, A.K. and Marmat Sandip M. (2021). Effect of Organic and Inorganic Seed Priming on Seed Quality Parameter in Chilli (Capsicum annum L.) Seeds. Biological Forum â€“ An International Journal, 13(3): 200-205.'),(3028,'102','Effect of Different Combinations of Organic Manures and Inorganic Fertilizers on Growth and Establishment of Custard Apple (Annona squamosa) cv.NMK-1 Golden','Suchismita Naik, Vijay Bahadur, Vipin M. Prasad, Saket Mishra, Anupriya Paul and Suchit John','40 Effect of Different Combinations of Organic Manures and Inorganic Fertilizers on Growth and Establishment of Custard Apple _Annona Squamosa_ cv.NMK-1 Golden Suchismita Naik.pdf','',1,'Custard apple is a very important dry land fruit tree of India. Now-a-days, this crop is becoming popular and commercial. Due to imbalanced nutrition, diseases and pest attack and lack of adoption of advanced technology or improved production techniques the productivity of custard apple has become very low. Among these factors, probably nutrition is a key factor affecting the productivity of custard apple trees. Imbalanced and non-judicious use of chemical fertilizers is a common practice adopted by the farmers. The use of organic fertilizers with inorganic fertilizers as a supplement is a new approach to maintain a balance, regulate cropping and with a view of getting higher outcome. \r\nHence, a field experiment entitled â€œEffect of different combinations of organic manures and inorganic fertilizers on growth and establishment of custard apple (Annona squamosa) cv.NMK-1 Goldenâ€ was conducted during the October 2020 to February 2021, at the Central Research Farm, Sam Higginbottom Uni','custard apple, organic manures, inorganic fertilizers, growth, establishment.','On the basis of results obtained, it is concluded that the treatment T3 having RDF(25%) + Vermicompost (75 %) was found best in terms of growth parameters viz., plant height (30.68 cm), number of leaves per plant (25.67), number of branches per plant (2.40), plant spread (37.18 cm), stem girth (2.71 cm), leaf area (28.16 cm2), days taken to emergence of 1st new leaf after treatment (6.47 days) and chlorophyll content (35.55 %). The maximum chlorophyll content (39.55%) of custard apple cv. NMK-1 Golden was observed with treatment T3. Moreover, the treatment T3 also showed 100% establishment of the custard apple plants cv.NMK-1 Golden. On the basis of the above findings the best combination of organic manures and inorganic fertilizers was RDF (Recommended Dose of Fertilizer) \r\n(25%) with Vermicompost (75%) as observed in all the parameters of custard apple plant.\r\nHowever, these findings are based on one season trial. Therefore, further evaluation trials are needed to substantiate the f','-','Naik, S., Bahadur, V., Prasad, V. M., Mishra, S., Paul, A. and John, S. (2021). Effect of Different Combinations of Organic Manures and Inorganic Fertilizers on Growth and Establishment of Custard Apple (Annona squamosa) cv. NMK-1 Golden. Biological Forum'),(3029,'102','Effect of Different Micronutrient Combinations on Plant Growth and Plant Establishment of Acid Lime (Citrus aurantifolia Swingle) c.v. Vikram','Anurag Anshuman Mishra, Vijay Bahadur, Joy Dawson, Tarence Thomas, Saket Mishra and Alok Kumar Mishra','41 Effect of Different Micronutrient Combinations on Plant Growth and Plant Establishment of Acid Lime _Citrus aurantifolia Swingle_ c.v. Vikram -Anurag Anshuman Mishra.pdf','',1,'To analyze the plant establishment and vegetative growth of acid lime c.v. Vikram and to standardize the doses of different micronutrient combinations, an experiment entitled, â€œEffect of different micronutrient combinations on plant growth and plant establishment of acid lime (Citrus aurantifolia Swingle) c.v. Vikramâ€ was carried out during the year 2020-2021 in an open field, Central Research Farm, Department of Horticulture, Sam Higginbottom University of Agriculture, Technology and Sciences, Prayagraj. The experimental field was laid out in a Randomized Block Design (RBD) with 11 treatments of different micronutrient combinations and three replications. The levels of micronutrients included ZnSO4 (0.5%, 1%, 1.5%, 2%), FeSO4 (0.5%, 1%, 1.5%, 2%) and Borax (0.5%, 1%, 1.5%, 2%). The variety used in this experiment was Vikram. The experiment comprised 10 foliar applications by varying the concentrations of the above said micronutrients in combinations along with control. The experim','Citrus, Micronutrients, ZnSO4, FeSO4, Borax, FYM, plant growth, plant establishment.','From the present investigation it may be concluded that T10 ZnSO4(0.5%) + FeSO4(0.5%) + B(2%) resulted in highest survival percentage and vegetative growth parameters like survival percentage (100% ), mortality per cent (0.00%), plant height (cm) (41.88), number of leaves per plant (102.99), number of branches per plant (15.48), stem girth (2.23cm), plant spread (64.76cm), leaf area (6.60cm2), Leaf area index (0.0026LAI) and chlorophyll (64.67SPAD).\r\nMoreover, the treatments T9, T5, T4, T3, T2 and T1 also showed 100% survivability due to higher zinc and boron content and lesser iron content and the other treatments including the control died mostly due to iron toxicity and environmental conditions.\r\nHence, for better growth and establishment it is recommended to apply the foliar application of proper dose of micronutrients at initial stage of acid lime seedlings under Prayagraj agro-climatic conditions. Since this is based on one season trail therefore, further evaluation trai','-','Mishra, A.A., Bahadur, V., Dawson, J., Thomas, T., Mishra, S. and Mishra, A.K. (2021). Effect of Different Micronutrient Combinations on Plant Growth and Plant Establishment of Acid Lime (Citrus aurantifolia Swingle) c.v. Vikram. Biological Forum â€“ An I'),(3030,'102','Scenario of Potassium Mining and Management in Indian Agriculture: A Review','Manish Raj, Kanhaiya Lal, Rahul Kumar and Ankita Ranjan','42 Scenario of Potassium Mining and Management in Indian Agriculture A Review Manish Raj.pdf','',1,'Potassium is long been neglected plant nutrient in Indian agriculture. Major states only emphasize on nitrogen and phosphorous fertilization and it creates potassium deficiency in soil. The Indian soil categorized into three group i.e., low, medium and high potassium status that based on 11 million soil sample data over 371 districts. 21% soil has low potassium status, 51% medium and 28% high potassium status. 72% soil has a low to medium potassium status and it requires external potassium application to optimize the crop yield. During past 40 years (1960-2000) the potassium consumption has increased 2.5 folds. The annual potassium mining in India is reported -10.2 Mt and it depleted the soil potassium reserves due to inadequate application of potassic fertilizers. All major states of India show the negative net balance of potassium that indicates removal of potassium much more than the external addition of potassium. The main drawbacks of potassium depletion are that it reduces crop p','Potassium, potassium mining, potassic fertilizers, plant nutrient, potassium status.','On the name of Fertilizer management across various states of India mainly concentrated on nitrogen and phosphorous fertilization and it causes imbalanced nutrition in soil. These days plant uptake potassium from soil reserves (mainly non-exchangeable) and continuously depleted the potassium. Nutrient mining is obvious in agriculture and cannot be avoided but reduce by adopting some of the management strategy of potassium. Apart from potassic fertilizer application, crop residue incorporation, fly ash, press mud, distillery spent wash, irrigation water and non-conventional sources of potassium (Micas, glauconite etc.) are the better management strategy to overcome the potassium mining.','-','Raj, M., Lal, K., Kumar, R. and Ranjan, A. (2021). Scenario of Potassium Mining and Management in Indian Agriculture: A Review. Biological Forum â€“ An International Journal, 13(3): 220-224.'),(3031,'102','Effect of Plant Population and Fertility on Plant Growth Attributes and Yield Attributing Characters of Transplanted Pearl Millet under Rainfed Condition in Bihar Region','Kanhaiya Lal, Manish Raj, Rahul Kumar, Suborna Roy Choudhury, Mahesh Kumar Singh and Sanju Kumari','43 Effect of Plant Population and Fertility on Plant Growth Attributes and Yield Attributing Characters of Transplanted Pearl Millet under Rainfed Condition in Bihar Region Rahul Kumar.pdf','',1,'Kharif pearl millet show profuse growth in the favourable situation. So, spacing thereby\r\nnutrient requirement need to be figure out for Bihar region. Rainfed pearl millet experiment was plotted at\r\nBAU research Farm, Sabour in the year 2019 (kharif season) to study performance of plant population and\r\nfertility level on growth and yield attributes of transplanted pearl millet in split plot and replicated thrice\r\nwith three main plot treatments viz. M1-45 cm Ã— 20 cm, M2-50 cm Ã— 20 cm and M3-50 cm Ã— 25 cm and three\r\nsub plot treatments viz. S1- N90P45K45 kg ha-1, S2- N120P60K60 kg ha-1 and S3-N150P75K75 kg ha-1. Nitrogen\r\napplied in three splits, one third at basal along with full dose of phosphorous and potassium and rest of N in\r\ntwo equal splits each at knee high and initiation of panicle respectively. The result revealed that among plant\r\npopulation levels, 45 cm Ã— 20 cm (M1) had significantly higher tillers/hill and plant dry matter. And, among\r\nfertility levels, N150P75K75 kg ','Fertility, pearl millet, Bihar region, growth attributes, yield attributing characters, Proagro 9450.','It could be concluded that plant population and fertility\r\nlevels had constructive outcome in all growth\r\nparameters and yield attributes of pearl millet crop.\r\nBased on this research, it can be concluded that spacing\r\nof 50 cm Ã— 25 cm among all plant population levels and\r\nN150P75K75 kg ha-1 among other fertility levels was\r\nmaximum in respect of growth parameter as well as\r\nyield attributes. However, to stand up with a specific\r\nconclusion and recommendation, experiment need to be\r\nre-conducted over different agro-climatic zones of\r\nBihar.','-','Lal, K., Raj, M., Kumar, R., Choudhury, S.R., Singh, M.K. and Kumari, S. (2021). Effect of Plant\r\nPopulation and Fertility on Plant Growth Attributes and Yield Attributing Characters of Transplanted Pearl Millet under Rainfed\r\nCondition in Bihar Region. B'),(3032,'102','Effect of Seed Priming on Germination and initial Seedling Growth of Cowpea Seeds (Vigna unguiculata L.)','Patti. Tejasree, Arun Kumar Chaurasia, Pradeep Kumar Shukla and Vangala Navya','44 Effect of Seed Priming on Germination and initial Seedling Growth of Cowpea Seeds _Vigna unguiculata L._ Patti. Tejasree.pdf','',1,'To overcome several seed enhancement techniques are available for quality up gradation we was conducted experiment in post graduate Seed Testing Laboratory, Department of Genetics and Plant Breeding, SHUATS, Prayagraj (U.P.) during Kharif season 2020-2021 standardize the suitable pre-sowing seed treatment for Cowpea. Different pre-sowing seed treatments with control (Unhardened) were evaluated by screening of 10 hours viz., T0- Control, T1- Neem leaf extract @ 3%, T2- Neem leaf extract @ 5%, T3- Tulsi leaf extract @ 3%, T4- Tulsi leaf extract @ 5%, T5- Beejamurtha @ 3%, T6- Beejamurtha @ 5%, T7- Coconut water @ 2%, T8- Coconut water @ 4%, T9- Cow urine @ 2%, T10- Cow urine @ 4%, T11- Ginger extract @ 1%, T12- Ginger extract @ 2%. It was resulted that the pre-sowing seed treatments are significance difference with the control, in seed quality parameters highest germination %, seedling length and vigour attributes in leaf extract: Neem (5%) followed by leaf extract: Tulsi (5%), Beejamur','Cowpea seeds, Neem leaf extract, Tulsi leaf extract, Beejamurtha, Coconut water, Cow urine, Ginger extract, germination, seedling and vigour parameters.','Pre-sowing seed treatment increases the germinability and vigour of cowpea seeds and found to be significantly all data in laboratory condition. Neem leaf extract (5%) followed by Tulsi leaf extract (5%), Beejamurtha (3%), Coconut water (4%), and Cow urine (4%) significantly increased the germination and vigour parameters of cowpea and found to be lowest in Control (untreated seed). Neem leaf extract (5%) showed maximum increase in germination, seedling dry weight and vigour parameters. Neem leaf extract (5%) showed best treatment among all the treatments for cowpea. All these conclusions are based on the investigation for six months and therefore further investigation is needed to arrive valid recommendations.','-','Tejasree, P., Chaurasia, A.K., Shukla, P.K. and Navya, V. (2021). Effect of Seed Priming on Germination and initial Seedling Growth of Cowpea Seeds (Vigna unguiculata L.). Biological Forum â€“ An International Journal, 13(3): 229-232.'),(3033,'102','In vitro Qualitative and Quantitative Assessment of PGPR Potential Attributes against Rhizoctonia bataticola in Chickpea','Bethala Kumeera, Swapnil Matikhaye, P.W. Ramteke and Suchit A. John','45 In vitro Qualitative and Quantitative Assessment of PGPR Potential Attributes against Rhizoctonia bataticola in Chickpea Suchit A. John.pdf','',1,'The present study confirmed that out of thirty one isolates collected from chickpea rhizoshpere, four isolates PR7, PR10, PR30, PR31 found to be potent and identified PR7, PR10 as E. cloacae gram negative and PR30, PR31 as B. subtills gram positive in clear microscopic view at 100x magnification. These strains were identified on basis of 16s rRNA sequencing and were resulted to be antagonistic against R. bataicola with 65.75% of higher zone inhibition observed in PR30 strain. Protease ranged between 27.75 to 19.00 Î¼g/ml of production, siderophore with 1.29 in PR30 to 0.98 Î¼g/ml which helps in iron uptake, and low production in PR7. Chitin assay was 192.25 to 147.75 U/ml of production reported high in PR7, Cellulase was 482.0 U/ml observed in PR30 assisted in production of lytic enzymes that is responsible for breakdown of fungal cell wall. Whereas HCN was only able to change color in PR10 only. All these mentioned four isolates in this study, performed PGPR traits such as assessment ','PGPR, R. bataticola, E. cloacae, B. subtills, Chickpea, Qualitative and Quantitative traits.','Plant growth promoting rhizobacteria (PGPR) has a prominent role but dominated by harsh chemicals, pesticides to manage dry root rot caused by Rhizoctonia bataticola, which negatively impacts on environment and crop productivity. Due to vast usage of these agrochemicals, a serious threat facing in global and health issues annually. Inorder to overcome this criteria, PGPR is an alternative solution for managing soil borne fungal pathogen, thus being beneficial for crop growth, yield in chickpea as well as significantly helpful for marginal farmers in present agricultural scenario organically and even to reduce environment and health concerns. In this present study, out of thirty one root colonizing chickpea (C. arietinum) rhizosphere bacterial isolates, four isolates reported highly antagonistic activity by suppressing R. bataticola growth mainly by showing its bio-control activity under in vitro conditions. PGPR attributes including of both indirect and direct traits, all these four me','-','Kumeera, B., Matikhaye, S., Ramteke, P.W. and John, S.A. (2021). In vitro Qualitative and Quantitative Assessment of PGPR Potential Attributes against Rhizoctonia bataticola in Chickpea. Biological Forum â€“ An International Journal, 13(3): 233-240.'),(3034,'102','Drought Management in Sugarcane at Formative Stage during Pre-monsoon Period','Ch. Mukunda Rao, P.S. Rao, M. Vijayakumar and M. Bharathalakshmi','46 Drought Management in Sugarcane at Formative Stage during Pre-monsoon Period Ch. Mukunda Rao.pdf','',1,'Sugarcane is an important commercial crop of Andhra Pradesh, next to cotton crop with industrial support. Sugarcane research under moisture stress/drought was carried out at R.S. & RRS, Rudrur & RARS, Anakapalle, period from 1993 to till date. Soil moisture stress/drought situation commonly occurs in sugarcane crop growth period coinciding with summer season for December â€“ January planted crop. Due to severity of the moisture stress the yield penality accounts up to 50% as the formative phase of the sugarcane crop a critical phase for tiller production and later tranformation in to stalk population. If formative stage coincides with summer and experiences with drought situation by yield reduction is more when compared to normally irrigated crop. Since two decades of sugarcane cultivation in Andhra Pradesh, the productivity was stagnated at 76 to 78 t/ha except one or two years. One of the reasons for stagnation of cane productivity in A.P. is oil moisture stress/drought during for','Soil moisture stress, cane yield (t/ha), cane quality, % Sucrose, Lime solution, Trash mulching, Skip furrow irrigation, Drip irrigation.','It is highly necessary that immediately after cessation of drought period, sufficient irrigation and fertilizers, particularly nitrogen and potash should be applied to put forth rapid growth and make up the loss suffered because of moisture stress, at least, partially. Similar type of soil moisture stress/drought mitigating techniques was also observed in sugarcane by Solomon, (2015). By adopting the above illustrated drought management practices, the loss due to soil moisture stress/drought can be overcome by satisfactorily and yield can be enhanced to an extent of 10 to 15%. ','-','Rao, Ch. Mukunda, Rao, P.S., Vijayakumar, M. and Bharathalakshmi, M. (2021). Drought Management in Sugarcane at Formative Stage during Pre-monsoon Period. Biological Forum â€“ An International Journal, 13(3): 241-244.'),(3035,'102','Association and Path Analysis of Morpho-agronomic Traits in Mungbean Germplasm Under Cold Stress','Sasmita Dash, Devraj Lenka, Swapan Kumar Tripathy and Manasi Dash','47 Association and Path Analysis of Morpho-agronomic Traits in Mungbean Germplasm Under Cold Stress Sasmita Dash.pdf','',1,'Low temperature in the early growing season greatly affects mungbean cultivation and results a significant reduction in relative growth rate and seed yield. Therefore, an experiment comprised of 230 mungbean germplasm lines tested over two locations was aimed to assess inter-relationship of agronomic traits including seed yield in winter season. Seed yield per plant was strongly and positively associated with plant height, pod number per plant, pod length, seed number per pod and 100-seed weight. However, path analysis revealed that pod number per plant is the most desirable contributing trait next to seed number per pod and 100-seed weight towards seed yield. Hence, for genetic improvement in the seed yield, direct selection of genotypes based on component traits exhibiting positive correlation and higher positive direct effect will be more effective and fruitful in mungbean under cold stress in the winter season.','Character association, path analysis, seed yield, yield related traits, cold stress, mungbean.','The present findings would be helpful for formulation of selection strategy for identification of parent materials in a set of germplasm lines as well as selection of elite plant types in mungbean breeding programme under cold stress.','-','Dash, S., Lenka, D., Tripathy, S.K. and Dash, M. (2021). Association and Path Analysis of Morpho-agronomic Traits in Mungbean Germplasm Under Cold Stress. Biological Forum â€“ An International Journal, 13(3): 245-248.'),(3036,'102','Genotype Ã— Environment Interaction and Fruit Yield Stability in Tomato Hybrids under Kashmir Valley conditions using Additive Main Effects and Multiplicative Interaction (AMMI) Model','Ummyiah, H.M., Zeenat Fayaz, Baseerat A., Shehnaz M., M. Mudasir Magray and Gazala N.','48 Genotype × Environment Interaction and Fruit Yield Stability in Tomato Hybrids under Kashmir Valley conditions using Additive Main Effects and Multiplicative Int.pdf','',1,'Tomato is the second most important vegetable crop in the world due to its significant nutritive\r\nvalue. The yield and quality of the fruits are highly influenced by the environment due to a phenomenon\r\nknown as genotype by environment (G Ã— E) interaction which confounds selection efficiency. Hence, plant\r\nbreeding requires a multi-environment study to analyze the response of genotypes to different conditions. At\r\nthree locations in Kashmir valley viz., Experimental fields of the Division of Vegetable Science, Sher-e-\r\nKashmir University of Agricultural Sciences & Technology of Kashmir, Krishi Vigyan Kendra (KVK),\r\nMalangpora, and Regional Research Station & Faculty of Agriculture (RRS & FOA), Wadura over two\r\nyears, seventeen tomato hybrids (Solanum lycopersicum Mill.) were examined with the goal of comparing\r\nyield performance and assessing adaptation using Additive Main Effects and Multiplicative Interaction model\r\n(AMMI). The three locations are designated as E1, E2 and E3 respect','Biplot, Tomato, Stability, AMMI analysis, PCA','The AMMI analysis model for tomato fruit yield found\r\nsignificant variation for main and interaction factors,\r\nshowing that there is a lot of variation between hybrids,\r\nlocations, years, and their interactions. For the plant\r\nbreeder, the presence of strong GÃ—E interaction in\r\nhybrids can be both an opportunity and a challenge.\r\nUsing 54 degrees of freedom, three significant IPCAs\r\nwere recovered from the interaction component in this\r\ninvestigation, which accounted for 98.139 percent of the\r\ntotal GEI SS. H3 and 7 (Shalimar tomato hybrid-1, PS-\r\n255) were the most stable and provide the highest\r\nyields, whereas H4 and H12 (Shalimar tomato hybrid-2,\r\nBhaskar Improved) were less stable but provide the\r\nhighest yields. Among the hybrids, H9 and 17 (Ajeet\r\nand Swaraj-1516) were the best suited hybrids to most\r\nenvironments, with IPCA values near to zero, showing\r\ntheir stability across all environments. Further, these\r\nhybrids can be evaluated in more environments to assess\r\ntheir perfo','-','Ummyiah, H.M., Zeenat Fayaz, Baseerat A., Shehnaz M., M. Mudasir Magray and Gazala, N. (2021).\r\nGenotype x Environment Interaction and Fruit Yield Stability in Tomato Hybrids under Kashmir Valley conditions using\r\nAdditive Main Effects and Multiplicative '),(3037,'102','Expression of CAT gene Resistance against Fusarium Wilt in Pigeonpea','Prashant Gigaulia, Keerti Tantwai, Sushma Nema and Sanjay Kumar Singh','49 Expression of CAT gene Resistance against Fusarium Wilt in Pigeonpea Keerti Tantwai.pdf','',1,'Wilt is most common and serious disease in pigeonpea. Many published reports have indicated 30-100% yield loss due to wilt in pigeonpea. Study of molecular markers and expression level of associated genes are very important to overcome the problem of wilt disease in pigeonpea. The causal organism of Fusarium wilt in pigeonpea is Fusarium udum. We report the efficacy of SSR markers among 14 pigeonpea varieties and expression analysis of Fusarium wilt resistance gene done by qRT-PCR. 14 varieties of pigeonpea were collected and analyzed using 13 SSR primers. Fusarium udum was isolated from infected plants of pigeonpea. Three varieties ICP-2376, Asha, and TJT-501 were grown in infected and control condition for expression analysis. Inoculation was done by root dipping into fungal spore suspension culture at four different time intervals viz. 0, 48, 72 and 120 hours. Total RNA was extracted from root parts. The expression level of CAT gene was tested in all the selected variety at four dif','Pigeonpea, SSR Markers, wilt resistance gene, Fusarium udum, qRT-PCR. ','Identification of different wilt resistant and wilt susceptible pigeonpea varieties was achieved by the use of SSR markers. SSR marker helps in the selection of diverse pigeonpea varieties for crop improvement programme and also useful for efficient screening of the germplasm. Total 18 different alleles were generated using 13 SSR primers. It is also concluded that Fusarium udum can easily and rapidly grow in Potato Dextrose Agar (PDA) media at optimum temperature and light. The inoculation procedure for causing wilt disease in plants by spore suspension method was also optimized. Wilt resistant gene present in wilt resistant plant expresses when fungal attack or biotic stress occurs. The expression of genes correlates with infection levels in response to changes in environmental conditions even in control condition. The qRT-PCR technique has validated its potential for further use in gene expression analysis of other targeted genes involved in pigeonpea against wilt disease. The polym','-','Gigaulia, P., Tantwai, K., Nema, S. and Singh, S.K. (2021). Expression of CAT gene Resistance against Fusarium Wilt in Pigeonpea. Biological Forum â€“ An International Journal, 13(3): 255-261.'),(3038,'102','Effect of Gibberellic Acid and Boron on Growth, Yield and Yield Attributory Traits in Strawberry (Fragaria x ananassa Duch.) under North Gangetic Plains','Somendra Verma, A.K. Dwivedi and V.K. Tripathi','50 Effect of Gibberellic Acid and Boron on Growth, Yield and Yield Attributory Traits in Strawberry _Fragaria x ananassa Duch._ under North Gangetic Plains Somendra Verma.pdf','',1,'A field experiment was carried out at Garden, Department of Fruit Science, C.S. Azad University of Agriculture and Technology Kanpur (U.P.) during two subsequent years i.e., 2018-19 and 2019-20 to investigate the effect of gibberellic acid and boron on growth, yield and yield attributory traits in strawberry (Fragaria Ã— ananassa Duch.). Four concentrations each of GA3 (0, 50, 75, and 100ppm) and Boron (0, 0.10, 0.25, and 0.50%) along with their combinations were used in Factorial Completely Randomized Design, which were replicated thrice. In strawberry use of Gibberellic acid (GA3) rushed early flowering along with the expanded duration of blossoming, harvesting by increasing the yield and quality boundaries. The utilization of boron helps in the movement of sugar and advances fruit bud formation. It was inferred that 75 ppm of GA3 and 0.50% boron were applied individually as well as their combinations, maximized plant height (cm), number of leaves, plant spread (cm), number of runner','Strawberry, Gibberellic acid, Boron, Growth, Yield and Yield attributory traits.','Based on the results obtained, it is concluded that individual application of both GA3 at 75 ppm and boron 0.50 % significantly maximized vegetative growth, yield attributes and yield of strawberry. Application of GA3 @ 75ppm associated with boron @ 0.50% significantly enhanced the yield (q/ha) in strawberry. The achievements of the present investigation are of paramount significance and possess great potential in improving the economy and prosperity of the country.','-','Verma S., Dwivedi, A.K. and Tripathi, V.K. (2021). Effect of Gibberellic Acid and Boron on Growth, Yield and Yield Attributory Traits in Strawberry (Fragaria x ananassa Duch.) under North Gangetic Plains. Biological Forum â€“ An International Journal, 13'),(3039,'102','Physicomorphic Mechanism of Resistance in Brinjal Genotypes against Shoot and Fruit Borer, Leucinodes orbonalis (Guenee)','Ch. Chinnabbai, S. Dayakar, A. Sujatha, P. Anil Kumar and S.K. Nafeez Umar','51 Physicomorphic Mechanism of Resistance in Brinjal Genotypes against Shoot and Fruit Borer, Leucinodes orbonalis _Guenee_ Ch. Chinnabbai.pdf','',1,'Development of brinjal hybrids/varieties with natural resistance to brinjal shoot and fruit borer is one of the effective and eco-friendly alternate methods for combating the pest. The biophysical and morphological characteristics of shoot and fruits are correlated with attraction, feeding and oviposition of the pest. Therefore, identification of biophysical characteristics from insect resistant genotypes is most practical significance. Physicomorphic characters responsible for resistance in brinjal genotypes towards the effective management of shoot and fruit borer was investigated during kharif 2017-18 at college of Horticulture, Venkataramannagudem using sixty genotypes and three check cultivars. Mean shoot thickness recorded was in the range of 0.23 to 0.63 cm, trichome density of leaf lamina/cmÂ² 353.50 to 758.05, trichome density of shoot/cmÂ² 243.70 to 560.60, plant height 51.87 to 102.75 cm, plant spread 69.17 to 112.41 cm, number of branches 5.80 to 9.20, fruit length 3.21 to ','Physicomorphic meachanism of resistance, Brinjal genotypes, Leucinodes orbonalis. ','Development of brinjal hybrids/varieties with natural resistance to brinjal shoot and fruit borer is one of the effective and eco-friendly alternate methods for combating the pest. The biophysical and morphological characteristics of shoot and fruits are correlated with attraction, feeding and oviposition of the pest. Therefore, identification of biophysical characteristics from insect resistant genotypes is most practical significance. Physicomorphic characters responsible for resistance in brinjal genotypes towards the effective management of shoot and fruit borer was investigated during kharif 2017-18 at college of Horticulture, Venkataramannagudem using sixty genotypes and three check cultivars. Mean shoot thickness recorded was in the range of 0.23 to 0.63 cm, trichome density of leaf lamina/cmÂ² 353.50 to 758.05, trichome density of shoot/cmÂ² 243.70 to 560.60, plant height 51.87 to 102.75 cm, plant spread 69.17 to 112.41 cm, number of branches 5.80 to 9.20, fruit length 3.21 to ','-','Chinnabbai, Ch., Dayakar, S., Sujatha, A., Kumar, P.A., and Umar S.K.N. (2021). Physicomorphic Mechanism of Resistance in Brinjal Genotypes against Shoot and Fruit Borer, Leucinodes orbonalis (Guenee). Biological Forum â€“ An International Journal, 13(3):'),(3040,'102','Evaluation of Pre Released Sugarcane Clones under Late Planted Rainfed Conditions for Higher Cane Yield and Quality','Ch. Mukunda Rao, P.S. Rao, M. Charumathi, M. Bharathalakshmi and P. Jamuna','52 Evaluation of Pre Released Sugarcane Clones under Late Planted Rainfed Conditions for Higher Cane Yield and Quality Ch. Mukunda Rao.pdf','',1,'Late planting of sugarcane (May-June) purely under rainfed conditions with the onset of monsoon is common in North Coastal Zone of Andhra Pradesh. Cane yields obtained under rainfed situations range from 25-30 t/ha as the crop suffer from moisture stress both at formative and maturity phases. Identification of clones with high cane yield, juice sucrose and tolerance to moisture stress is the priority area in sugarcane research. Earlier field experiments conducted at RARS, Anakaplle indicated that Co 6907, 84A 125, 81A 99, 87A 298, Co 8201, Co 7219 and 97A 85 performed well under rained situations. Due to paucity of time and susceptibility to emerging pests & diseases, only 87A 298 was remained as a cosmopolitan variety. There is a dire need to identify new potential sugarcane clone for rainfed situation. Under this context this trial was conducted for evaluation of pre-release clones purely under rainfed conditions for two years (2019 & 2020) resulted in identification of superior clon','Rainfed sugarcane, moisture stress, late planting, SPAD/SCMR values, leaf proline.','Based on observations made in present study it is concluded that among sugarcane clones studied 2011A175 (74.6 t/ha), 2011A260 (74.6 t/ha), 2001A70 (71.8 t/ha), 2007A 81 (66.2 t/ha), 2003A 255 (65.0 t/ha), 2007A 241 (64.2 t/ha), 2009A107 (63.7 t/ha) 2006A223 (62.6 t/ha) recorded higher cane yield & juice sucrose percent on par to popular standards 87A298 (66.2 t/ha) and Co6907 (62.7 t/ha) in terms of cane yield and on par in terms of quality 19.9% and 20.0% respectively. These clones are to be tested in farmersâ€™ fields for observing the ground level performance with the feedback of the sugarcane growers prior to release for general cultivation.','-','Rao, Ch. Mukunda, Rao, P.S., Charumathi, M., Bharathalakshmi, M. and Jamuna, P. (2021). Evaluation of Pre Released Sugarcane Clones under Late Planted Rainfed Conditions for Higher Cane Yield and Quality. Biological Forum â€“ An International Journal, 13'),(3041,'102','Effect of New Herbicide Molecules on Weed Control Efficiency, Growth and Yield in Hybrid Maize','P. Thukkaiyannan','53 Effect of New Herbicide Molecules on Weed Control Efficiency, Growth and Yield in Hybrid Maize P. Thukkaiyannan.pdf','',1,'Weeds are the most important biotic constraints to maize production. Yield losses in maize due to weeds depend on several factors such as weed emergence time, weed density and type of weeds. If the weeds left uncontrolled, it results in 100% yield loss. Since, labour availability to manual weeding and higher wages, it is necessary to have the strategy of chemical control of weeds in appropriate time to attain target yield and economic benefit. In this view, field experiments were conducted at Maize Research Station, Vagarai, Tamilnadu (India) during the season kharif of the years 2015, 2016 and 2017 under irrigated eco system in maize hybrid (TNMH-Co 6) to develop weed management options with new herbicide molecules. The experiments were laid out in RBD and replicated thrice. The weed management options viz., pre and post emergence herbicide applications in different doses and time with conventional hand weeding. The trials were also compared with Weedy check (control) and Weed free ch','Maize, herbicide, weed management, weed population, weed dry matter, weed control efficiency, grain yield.','Maize is an important cereal crop of India grown in both kharif and rabi season. This crop has a very high yield potential, particularly the hybrids which may produce as high as 6 t/ha during kharif and more than 10t/ha during rabi season but the average yield (2.5 t/ha) is considered to be very low due to various constraints. Wide row spacing in maize coupled with favourable environment allows luxuriant weed growth which may reduce the yield by 30-90%. In addition, maize is generally raised under marginal conditions with meager inputs which make it poor competitor. Timely weed control in maize has become the essential for realizing its potential yield. Weed control through use of herbicides (chemical) assumed a greater significance/importance due to their accessibility, selective and quick action after the discovery of 2, 4- D in 1935 for broad leaved weeds. But over reliance on herbicide use sometimes may cause residual toxicity to succeeding crops and ground water contamination. Mas','-','Thukkaiyannan, P. (2021). Effect of New Herbicide Molecules on Weed Control Efficiency, Growth and Yield in Hybrid Maize. Biological Forum â€“ An International Journal, 13(3): 282-287.'),(3042,'102','Influence of Seed Priming with Botanicals, Micronutrients and Bio-inoculants on Physiological Attributes in Sorghum (Sorghum bicolour L.)','Bongoni Akhil and Abhinav Dayal','54 Influence of Seed Priming with Botanicals, Micronutrients and Bio-inoculants on Physiological Attributes in Sorghum _Sorghum bicolour L._ Bongoni Akhil.pdf','',1,'A laboratory experiment was conducted in a Completely Randomized Design (CRD) with four replications during Rabi, 2020-2021 at Naini Agricultural Institute, Sam Higginbottom University of Agriculture Technology and Sciences, Prayagraj. The genetically pure seeds of sorghum var. SPV 1411 (Parbhanimoti) was used for the study. The sorghum seeds primed with treatments (Neem leaf, Parthenium leaf, Azospirillum sp., Pseudomonas fluorescens, Boron, Zinc sulphate) were subjected to germination studies in laboratory, seed germination and seedling growth parameters were recorded. Analysis of variance revealed significant mean sum of squares due to seed priming treatments. The highest germination percentage (95%), root length (14.79 cm), shoot length (19.65cm), seedling length (34.44cm), fresh weight (1.71g), dry weight (0.20g), vigor index 1 (3272) and vigor index 2 (19.23) were observed in T12 (Combination of Azospirillum sp. + Pseudomonas fluorescens + Zinc sulphate + Boron) followed by T11 (','Parthenium leaf, neem leaf, Azospirillum sp., Pseudomonas fluorescens, zinc sulphate, boron. ','It is concluded from the present investigation of seed treatments with different kind of priming were found affecting significantly different characters of growth\r\nunder study in sorghum. Priming with T12 (Combination of Azospirillum sp. + Pseudomonas fluorescens + Zinc sulphate + Boron) was found significantly superior which affected all the growth parameters in sorghum in comparison to control and other treatments. Thus, application of Azospirillum sp. + Pseudomonas fluorescens + Zinc sulphate + Boron) is useful for improving seed quality in sorghum. Therefore on behalf of this study suggested combination of bio-inoculants and micronutrients were capable to increase germination and seedling parameters. The use of bio-inoculants is an efficient approach to replace chemicals which are ecofriendly, non-hazardous and non-toxic for sustainable sorghum cultivation. Further investigations under field conditions might be needed to clarify the role of bio-inoculants and micronutrients i','-','Akhil, B. and Dayal, A. (2021). Influence of Seed Priming with Botanicals, Micronutrients and Bio-inoculants on Physiological Attributes in Sorghum (Sorghum bicolour L.). Biological Forum â€“ An International Journal, 13(3): 288-294.'),(3043,'92','Genetic Evaluation of Garden Pea (Pisum sativum L.) for Pod Yield and its Contributing Traits','Dharminder Kumar, Shubham, Balbir Singh Dogra, Sunil Thakur, Sandeep Kumar, Kumari Shiwani, V.G.S. Chandel, Rajesh Kaler, Vipan Guleria and Aanchal Chauhan','111 Genetic Evaluation of Garden Pea _Pisum sativum L._ for Pod Yield and its Contributing Traits Dharminder Kumar.pdf','',1,'The study was conducted to evaluate the performance of different genotypes of garden pea during Rabi, 2019-20 at Regional Horticultural Research and Training Station, Dr. Y.S. Parmar University of Horticulture and Forestry, Himachal Pradesh. The experiment was layout in the Augmented Block Design (ABD). Examination of the characteristics revealed substantial variability in the genotypes, indicating that sufficient variance was present throughout the germplasm under study. The maximum plant height was recorded in EC-838238 whereas, the minimum plant height was recorded in EC-838152. The minimum number of node at which the first flower appear was recorded in three genotypes viz. EC-838152, EC- 838161, EC-838233, whereas EC-838232 recorded the highest node at which the first flower appear. The lowest days to 50% flowering were reported in EC-838216 while the highest were documented in EC-838206. The EC-838220 showed the lowest number of seeds per pod and the EC-838211 expressed the highes','Garden pea, Pod yield, Mean and genotypes, Genetic Evaluation.','From the present experimental findings it is concluded that the genotypes EC-838201, EC-838141, EC-838208 and EC-838166 were found to be superior for marketable pod yield and other significant characteristics based on overall performance. So these genotypes can be further use for evaluation or growing under the conditions of sub-tropical climate of Himachal Pradesh. ','-','Kumar, D., Shubham, Dogra, B.S., Thakur, S., Kumar, S., Shiwani, K., Chandel, V.G.S., Kaler, R., Guleria, V., and Chauhan, A. (2021). Genetic Evaluation of Garden Pea (Pisum sativum L.) for Pod Yield and its Contributing Traits. Biological Forum â€“ An'),(3044,'102','Effectiveness of Mycorrhizal Biofertilizer in the Management of Orobanche in Tomato (Lycopersicon esculentum L.)','Asif Waratadar, P. Jones Nirmalnath, P.S. Matiwade and Vithal Navi','55 Effectiveness of Mycorrhizal Biofertilizer in the Management of Orobanche in Tomato _Lycopersicon esculentum L._ Asif Waratadar.pdf','',1,'The management of Orobanche under the infested field condition is very difficult to achieve because of its micro sized seed, high fecundity and asynchronous germination. Thus an attempt was made to evaluate native AMF isolates against Orobanche emergence in tomato. The experiment was carried out in Orobanche infested soils of Belagavi district during 2018-19. During the investigation different methods of application of mycorrhizal biofertilizer were screened for their ability to suppress of Orobanche i.e. (planting of pre mycorrhized seedling; soil application and the combination of both). The results of the present investigations with respect different methods of applications of mycorrhizal biofertilizer on Orobanche emergence has revealed that planting of pre colonized tomato seedling with mycorrhizal biofertilizer plus soil application of mycorrhizal biofertilizer at the time of planting suppressed the Orobanche emergence (0.00 plot-1), followed by planting of pre colonized seedlin','Orobanche; AM Fungi; Pre colonization; Tomato; Mycorrhizal biofertilizer.','The suppression of Orobanche by AM fungi is chiefly known to be due to depletion of strigolactones by them in the rhizosphere of the host plants. Strigolactones are signaling compound that play a vital role as germination stimulants of the parasitic Orobanche. Hence research of the present investigation is a promising strategy to develop a bio herbicide against parasitic weeds with a special reference to Orobanche in tomato and other solanaceous crops like tobacco, brinjal and others.','-','Waratadar, A., Nirmalnath, P.J., Matiwade, P.S. and Navi, V. (2021). Effectiveness of Mycorrhizal Biofertilizer in the Management of Orobanche in Tomato (Lycopersicon esculentum L.). Biological Forum â€“ An International Journal, 13(3): 295-302.'),(3047,'104','An ecological study of the Sweet Briar College old-growth white oak forest','Harold S. Adams, David W. Lawrence, Steven L. Stephenson','1_JNBR_10_2__2021.pdf','',1,'','','','',''),(3048,'104','Molluscicidal activity of Makabuhay (Tinospora rumphii Boerl) stem thanolic extract against Radix (Lymnaea) spp. snails','Marshal G. Esquilla , Carlito B. Sanchez , Jan Clyden B. Tenorio*','2_JNBR_10_2__2021.pdf','',1,'','','','',''),(3049,'102','Studies on Some Physical and Engineering Properties of Linseed','Geeta Patel, R.K. Naik and Kishan Kumar Patel','56 Studies on Some Physical and Engineering Properties of Linseed Geeta Patel.pdf','',1,'The engineering properties of linseed were investigated for three varieties i.e. Neelam, Shekhar, and Sheela within the moisture content range of 8 to 14% (d.b). Based on statistical analysis there is significant effect of variety and moisture content on all physical and engineering properties of linseed. The linear dimensions i.e. length, width, thickness and geometric mean diameter (GMD) of linseed seed increased with increase in moisture content for all three varieties. However, the highest length, width and thickness were observed for the Neelam variety of linseed as 5.53mm, 2.92mm 0.90 mm and 2.56 mm respectively. However, the highest surface area, sphericity, volume and 1000 grain weight were observed for the Neelam Variety of linseed as 21.51mm2, 8.86mm3 10.59 g respectively at moisture content of 14 %. The highest true density, porosity and lowest value of bulk density were observed for the Neelam Variety of linseed as 1128.56 kg/m3, 41.16 and 664.03kg/m3 respectively. The high','Linseed, engineering properties, Physical properties.','1. The mean value of physical property of linseed capsule, no. of capsule per plant, no of seed per capsule, length, width and thickness of capsule and geometric mean diameter (GMD) were 37.50, 9.59, 7.79mm, 6.57mm, 6.49 mm and 6.91mm respectively.\r\n2. It was concluded that the mean value of linear dimensions i.e. length, width, thickness and geometric mean diameter (GMD) of linseed seed increased with increase in moisture content for all three varieties. However, the highest length, width and thickness was observed for the Neelam Variety of linseed as 5.53mm, 2.92mm 0.90 mm and 2.56 mm respectively at moisture content of 14 %.\r\n3. The mean value of surface area, volume, 1000 grain weight of linseed increased with increase in moisture content for all three varieties. However, the highest surface area, sphericity, volume and 1000 grain weight were observed for the Neelam Variety of linseed as 21.51mm2, 8.86mm3 10.59 g respectively at moisture content of 14 %.\r\n4. The mean value of true ','-','Patel, G., Naik, R.K. and Patel, K.K. (2021). Studies on Some Physical and Engineering Properties of Linseed. Biological Forum â€“ An International Journal, 13(3): 303-308.'),(3050,'102','Floristic Composition of Weeds in Paddy Fields of Ri Bhoi District of Meghalaya','Premaradhya, N., Vishram Ram, Santosh Korav and N.J. Singh','57 Floristic Composition of Weeds in Paddy Fields of Ri Bhoi District of Meghalaya Santosh Korav 1229.pdf','',1,'The present investigation was undertaken to assess the distribution and pattern of weed flora prevailing in the rice fields of Ri-Bhoi district of Meghalaya. A random field survey was conducted in the farmersâ€™ rice field (75 sites and 3 quadrates in each site of the Ri-Bhoi district of Meghalaya during the rainy season of 2016 and 2017. The region experiences a tropical monsoon climate, in two study sites, i.e., upland which is broadcasted with no management system practiced in traditional methods of jhum fields and in lowland, which is submerged and transplanted system practiced in the valleys which is frequently flooded due to heavy rainfall. The genus and species of weeds were precisely identified and counted number of weeds present in the 1m2 quadrate from all the sites of the study area using GPS coordinates and various phytosociological parameters such as Density, Frequency, Abundance and Importance Value Index (IVI) were calculated, based on the data collected in the district.','Phytosociology, Oryza sativa, Importance Value Index, Weed control strategy and weed flora.','The present study was conducted as a first ever attempt from the study area to explore and identify the weeds of paddy crop. Study was able to establish that the most important weeds that were associated and the diversity pattern with the paddy crop in the study area are of grass and sedge family in lowlands and broadleaves and sedges in uplands. The present analysis would be useful in developing future crop management and devising methods to control those specific areas through long-term monitoring of weed diversity in this region in the context of precision agriculture.','-','Premaradhya, N., Ram, V., Korav, S. and Singh, N. J. (2021). Floristic Composition of Weeds in Paddy Fields of Ri Bhoi District of Meghalaya. Biological Forum â€“ An International Journal, 13(3): 309-314.'),(3051,'102','Effect of Arbuscular Mycorrhizal Fungi on Growth of Salvadora persica L. Seedlings under the Nursery Condition','Bhawana Sharma, Neelam Verma, R. K. Gupta and R.R. Lohara','58 Effect of Arbuscular Mycorrhizal Fungi on Growth of Salvadora persica L. Seedlings under the Nursery Condition Bhawana Sharma.pdf','',1,'Salt affected soil is a major challenge for vegetation conservation and restoration in many districts of Rajasthan. The high salt content in the soil affects its fertility and this type of soil cannot support vegetation and plantation activities. Plants face toxicity of ions and physiological drought due to presence of excessive salt in the soil. Arbuscular mycorrhizal fungi (AMF) have been proved to support plant growth under salt stress. Though, the property of these fungi promoting growth in salt affected areas is not widely used in the afforestation programme. The application of AMF technology can contribute to the rehabilitation of this problem soil. Salvadora persica is an important tree species that survive in salt affected soils, but is not widely used in plantation activities due to slow-growing nature. In this study, a nursery experiment was conducted to test the effects of AMF on S. persica, a tree species with signiï¬cant potential for afforestation of salt affected soil. ','AM fungi, Rehabilitation, salt affected soil, afforestation.','The study of mycorrhizal associations of S. persica is critical to access their dependence on mycorrhizal fungi as well as selecting out candidate species of endomycorrhizal fungi for mass multiplication. Inoculation by G. fasciculatum and G. aggregatum increased, shoot height and biomass of S. persica seedlings. Regarding the enhancement of plant growth, G. fasciculatum was found superior as compare to G. aggregatum. Selected AM fungi may be used for fortifying seedlings in the nursery before taking them at plantation sites. Further field trials are required to evaluate the impact on growth and survival of S. persica inoculated by AM fungi under the field condition as the present results were obtained under the nursery conditions. We can conclude our experiment with the recommendation that the inoculation with AM fungi especially G. fasciculatum had a strong impact on seedling growth of S. persica. ','-','Sharma, B., Verma, N., Gupta, R. K. and Lohara, R.R. (2021). Effect of Arbuscular Mycorrhizal Fungi on Growth of Salvadora persica L. Seedlings under the Nursery Condition. Biological Forum â€“ An International Journal, 13(3): 315-320.'),(3052,'102','Biofortified Seeds in the Amelioration of Hidden Hunger: Current Status and Challenges','Acharya Balkrishna, Rashmi Mittal, Mohini, Deepika Srivastava, Anubha Arora and Vedpriya Arya','59 Biofortified Seeds in the Amelioration of Hidden Hunger Current Status and Challenges Vedpriya Arya.pdf','',1,'Hidden hunger attributed as triple burden of malnutrition is a pessimistic situation currently affecting life globally. Expansion of high yielding but micronutrient deficient cultivars have further exacerbated the issue by exerting additional burden on poor people, children and pregnant women especially. Agricultural policies and its technological interventions possessed enormous potential in targeting hidden hunger through bio-fortification Bio-fortification enhance the nutrient uptake from soil, eradicates anti-nutritional factors thereby enriches the crop with micronutrients. Bio-fortified agri-foods are currently available worldwide but several challenges have restricted its approachability to mass population. The present review article is an attempt to propose mechanistic approach to combat hidden hunger with the help of â€˜Central Repository of Bio-fortified seedsâ€™ and to represent the approach standing panorama on grounds of plant breeding, genetic engineering etc. to provide ','Bio-fortification, Hidden hunger, Micronutrients, Plant breeding','Prevailing importance of micronutrients in human diet is a matter of utmost concern due to increase ratio of undernourished population. Genetic engineering and plant breeding are two such fundamental approaches which can reshape the micronutrient concentration in our diet. Based upon these methodologies â€˜Central Repository of Bio-fortified seedsâ€™ can produce bio-fortified seeds and with the help of WHO and agricultural ministry of respective country it can be provided to farmers for the betterment of agricultural products. Although phenotypic traits of bio-fortified seeds will remain same because of which it may be hard to convince research institutes and farmers regarding enriched micronutrient status in the beginning but once initiated it exhibits vast potential to completely eradicate hidden hunger worldwide. Research community, policy makers and WHO needs to focus on this intervention to overcome growing issue of hidden hunger.','-','Balkrishna, A., Mittal, R., Mohini, Srivastava, D., Arora, A. and Arya, V. (2021). Biofortified Seeds in the Amelioration of Hidden Hunger: Current Status and Challenges. Biological Forum â€“ An International Journal, 13(3): 321-326.'),(3053,'102','Effect of Magnetic Field and Different Diet on Biological Parameter of Rice Moth, Corcyra cephalonica','S.A. Shendage, S.K. Aherkar, U.S. Kulkarni, R.M. Wadaskar and M.P. Mohril','60 Effect of Magnetic Field and Different Diet on Biological Parameter of Rice Moth, Corcyra cephalonica S.A. Shendage.pdf','',1,'The present experiment was conducted in the laboratory of Entomology, Dr. PDKV Akola, during August 2017-18 and 2018-19. The nine main treatments were the exposure of Corcyra larvae to the magnetic field for 0 hrs, 24 hrs, 12 hrs, 6 hrs, 3 hrs, 2 hrs, 1Â½ hrs, 1 hrs and Â½ hrs duration and four sub treatments were rearing of the larvae on diet CSH-35 (D1), Maldandi 35-1 (D2), Swati (D3) and CSH-9 (D4) variety of sorghum. Observations were recorded based on pooled data, after 16 days and 24 days on weight and length of Corcyra larvae. The result indicates that, rearing of Corcyra in the magnetic field for 12 hrs recorded maximum weight and length 14.91 mg and 12.27 mm and after 24 days on maximum weight and length of Corcyra larvae was observed in 46.31 mg and 16.41 mm in magnetic field treatment for 12 hrs. ','Corcyra cephalonica, magnetic field exposure, diets, factorial complete randomized design.','From the present study concluded the exposure of Corcyra cephalonica in magnetic field for reared Â½ hrs, 1 hrs and 24 hrs period had negative impact on growth and development of larvae. Exposure of Corcyra cephalonica to magnetic field for 12 hrs had positive impact on larval weight and length. Amongst different diets tested the best diet for the growth and development of Corcyra was observed to be sorghum variety Maldandi 35-1 (D2). So this variety can be recommended for commercial rearing of Corcyra. The interaction effect of magnetic field 12 hrs and Maldandi 35-1 (D2) diet had good growth of Corcyra larvae as compare to non magnetic field. Exposure of larvae for 12 hrs had positive impact on biological parameter can be used for mass multiplication of Corcyra and that for 24 hrs can be used in management of Corcyra under store condition.','-','Shendage, S.A., Aherkar, S.K., Kulkarni, U.S., Wadaskar, R.M. and Mohril, M.P. (2021). Effect of Magnetic Field and Different Diet on Biological Parameter of Rice Moth, Corcyra cephalonica. Biological Forum â€“ An International Journal, 13(3): 327-331.'),(3054,'102','A Bioinformatics Approach for the Treatment of Thalassemia using Molecular Docking','Anwesha Chowdhury and Sruthi V.S.','61 A Bioinformatics Approach for the Treatment of Thalassemia using Molecular Docking Anwesha Chowdhury.pdf','',1,'Thalassemia is a major blood disorder that results from significantly reduced or absent synthesis of either the Î±- or Î²-globin chains. Alpha Thalassemia is most prevalent in people of African and Southeast Asian descent whereas beta thalassemia in people of Mediterranean descent. The drugs commonly used for the treatment of thalassemia are deferasirox, deferiprone, desferrioxamine, hydroxyurea, and luspatercept. In this study, we have determined that bioactive compounds from the plant species Coptidis Rhizome can also be used for the treatment of thalassemia. The identification of the specific ligands that bind to specific receptor binding sites and identification of the most favorable ligand with the help of molecular docking was attempted. Docking studies revealed that the best hit molecule for alpha thalassemia was the drug Deferasirox and the bioactive Chilenin from CoptidisRhizome and for beta thalassemia was the drug Indicaxanthin and the bioactive Berberine from CoptidisRhizom','Î±- and Î²-globin chains, Auto Dock, Coptidis Rhizome, Drugs, Mutation, Thalassemia.','Concluding, we can say that the results of this study appear to support the usage of Coptidis Rhizome for the treatment of thalassemia and its related conditions. Coptidis Rhizome has tremendous potential as anti- atherosclerotic, anti-obesity, maintaining lipid effect, and anti-hepatic steatosis effect. Among the bioactive compounds, Chilenin and Berberine was determined to be best for treatment of thalassemia compared to the already available drugs available. Since, thalassemia is a huge burden in many developing countries such as India, this traditional remedy can be exploited to develop a wide range of drugs which in turn will help reduce the global prevalence of thalassemia. In some cases, Coptidis Rhizome has been termed as safe for oral concoction based on traditional dosage and indication. This option can be cost effective solution particularly in developing countries which can be a huge future prospect. Thus, effective, safe and affordable treatment options can be given to tha','-','Chowdhury, A. and Sruthi, V.S. (2021). A Bioinformatics Approach for the Treatment of Thalassemia using Molecular Docking. Biological Forum â€“ An International Journal, 13(3): 332-338.'),(3055,'102','Anti-venom Potential of Traditionally used Medicinal Plants of East Africa: A Perspective on the Phytotherapeutics','Acharya Balkrishna, Monika, Preeti Raperia, Anurag Dabas & Vedpriya Arya','62 Anti-venom Potential of Traditionally used Medicinal Plants of East Africa A Perspective on the Phytotherapeutics Dr. Dabas Anti-venom.pdf','',1,'The East African diversity constitutes of the highly diverse flora of medicinal plants and traditional medicinal knowledge about their application to treat snakebite which is majorly neglected issue of concern all across the world. Nowadays, researchers emphasize plant-based anti-dotes by assessing traditional medicinal knowledge which is used in treating snakebite. The present investigation documented the plant-based snake venom antagonists based on limited literature available due to lack of access to traditional knowledge. The present study aims to compute and documenting possible available data on plant for anti-venom potential. Among the East African countries, Uganda and Kenya express key interest to used herbal medicine against snakebite and roots are used extensively, although numerous species from the family Aristolochiaceae and Fabaceae are used as a remedy against snake venom. The study assists to draw an attention towards the need of identifying and scientifically validatin','Africa, Antivenin, Ethnomedicinal plants, Pharmacological activity, Snakebite','The plant parts (roots, leaves, whole plant, bark and tuber) are commonly used, although root showed highest usages against the snake venom followed by leaves and bark. The buds, flowers, fruits and seeds although are also rich in phytochemicals but are less frequently used. Highest number of medicinal species from the family Aristolochiaceae and Fabaceae are used as a remedy against snakebite. The plant is mostly administered orally in the form of paste, its infusions as a drink, juice, decoctions, concoction and in powdered form and it can be applied topically. Several studies showed the key interest of investigators to screen new plants for their anti-venom actions. Among the East African countries, Uganda and Kenya shows the highest interest to use the traditional herbal medicine against snake venom. The emerging trends in the research also focus on the clinical aspects of these plant-based medicines trials. The untiring efforts to procure information about phytochemical and pharma','-','Balkrishna, A., Monika,Raperia, P., Dabas, A. and Arya, V. (2021). Anti-venom Potential of Traditionally used Medicinal Plants of East Africa: A Perspective on the phytotherapeutics. Biological Forum â€“ An International Journal, 13(3): 339-347.'),(3056,'102','In vitro Evaluation of Bio-efficacy of Botanicals as Water and Ether extracts against Fusarium oxysporum f. sp. radicis-cucumerinum','Suresh Kumar, N.L. Meena, Rohith M., Laxmi Choudhary, Akansha Deora and Kalpana Yadav','63 In vitro Evaluation of Bio-efficacy of Botanicals as Water and Ether extracts against Fusarium oxysporum f. sp. radicis-cucumerinum Suresh Kumar.pdf','',1,'Use of natural products like botanical amendments or botanical extracts for the management of fungal diseases in plants is considered as a substitute method to synthetic fungicides, due to their less negative effects on the human and environment health hazard or implications. Botanicals are gaining importance in crop protection in view of their selective properties, low cost and safety to ecosystem. The antifungal properties of plants have been proved in a number of instances as potential means for the control of many diseases. The present study was conducted to evaluate the antifungal efficacy of few botanicals extracted using water and ether against Fusarium oxysporum f. sp. radicis-cucumerinum in vitro. To study the antifungal mechanism of plant extract, poisoned food technique was used for experiment. Eight plant species viz., Ipomea carnea, Calotropis gigantean, Allium cepa, Datura stromonium, Catharanthus roseus, Azadirachta indica, Curcuma longa and Piper nigrum used to test the','botanicals, water and ether extract, Fusarium oxysporum f. sp. radicis-cucumerinum.','To develop effective management strategies, the botanicals should be included in the cultivation practice. Eight Botanicals as water and Ether extract such as Ipomea carnea, Calotropis gigantea, Allium cepa, Datura stromonium, Catharanthus roseus, Azadirachta indica, Curcuma longa and Piper nigrum were evaluated in vitro against mycelial growth of F. oxysporum f. sp. radicis-cucumerinum at three concentrations viz., 10, 20 and 30 per cent by poison food technique. Among them, A. indica ether extract was highly effective in inhibiting the growth of Pathogen as 62.96, 74.07 and 82.22 percent at 10, 20 and 30 percent concentrations, respectively. And in water extracts, A. indica extract also found effective in inhibiting the growth of pathogen as 58.51, 69.63 and 77.77 percent at 10, 20 and 30 percent concentrations, respectively. The other botanicals were not so effective in inhibiting the growth of the pathogen, the only other botanical that exhibited good per cent inhibition of the pat','-','Kumar, S., Meena, N.L., Rohith M., Choudhary, L., Deora, A. and Yadav, K. (2021). In vitro Evaluation of Bio-efficacy of Botanicals as Water and ether extracts against Fusarium oxysporum f. sp. radicis cucumerinum. Biological Forum â€“ An International Jo'),(3057,'102','Evaluation of anti-oxidant Activity of Mother and in vitro raised Plants of Valeriana jatamansi Jones','Sneh Sharma, Sakshi Sharma and Vivek Sharma','64 Evaluation of anti-oxidant Activity of Mother and in vitro raised Plants of Valeriana jatamansi Jones Sneh Sharma.pdf','',1,'Valeriana jatamansi Jones (family Caprifoliaceae) is a pharmaceutically important, North- Western Himalayan medicinal and aromatic herb which possess neuroprotective, antidepressant, anti-tumor, gastrointestinal, cytotoxic, anti-virus, antioxidant, sedative and other activities. The demand for this rare plant is increasing day by day which leads to dwindling of herbs availability in forest. Therefore, plant tissue culture provides a more powerful and promising tool for plant propagation of this important medicinal plant. In the present study, methanolic and di-ethyl ether extracts of Valeriana jatamansi were prepared and analyzed for their polyphenols and flavonoid contents. Antioxidant activity of different extracts of Valeriana jatamansi was determined by DPPH radical scavenging method. The results indicate that in methanol extract, mother plant leaf samples showed higher (63.07 Â± 0.92) DPPH scavenging antioxidant activity in comparison to in vitro raised plants (58.50 Â± 1.06). Whe','Valeriana jatamansi, antioxidant, biomolecules, methanol, flavonoids, medicinal plants','Antioxidant activity can further be utilized for identification of best provenances for large scale production through biotechnological intervention. In the present study quantification of antioxidant potential is recommended in order to achieve maximum benefits from high value medicinal plants in the region. Methanol extract of Valeriana jatamansi possesses high antioxidant activity as compared to di-ethyl ether, whereas mother plant samples showed higher DPPH scavenging activity in comparison to in vitro raised plants in both the solvents.','-','Sharma, S., Sharma, S., and Sharma, V. (2021). Evaluation of anti-oxidant Activity of Mother and in vitro raised Plants of Valeriana jatamansi Jones. Biological Forum â€“ An International Journal, 13(3): 357-360.'),(3058,'102','Current Status of Indian Agriculture: Problems, Challenges and Solution','Acharya Balkrishna, Manisha Phour, Manisha Thapliyal and Vedpriya Arya','65 Current Status of Indian Agriculture Problems, Challenges and Solution Manisha.pdf','',1,'Food consumption and growing population remain the biggest problems in the developing countries like India. This could only be solved through an increase in agricultural output. While intensive agriculture practices based on the green revolution have contributed to a significant increase in yield and production, they have come at the expense of ecosystem deterioration. It advocates for a novel method that educates producers or small farm holders on how to use their conventional expertise to enhance greater yield production with fewer external inputs. This strategy is referred to as sustainable agriculture, and it is currently the most pressing issue facing the world. This study provides a brief background to the idea of current scenario of Indian agriculture, as well as a critical evaluation of the concept in terms of difficulties and possibilities for overall sustainability.','Agriculture Sustainability, Green Revolution, Indian Agriculture, Precision Farming.','The major problems confronting Agricultural sector at the moment are a knowledge gap and an infrastructural gap, particularly in rural regions. Issues related to water, commerce, and transport networks add considerable expense to producers\' livelihoods. An even worse problem is lack of procurement systems. There seem to be a lot of programmes targeted at developing agriculture. Non-efficient transport methods cannot lead to an increase production, decreased cost, or higher price collection at the ground level. Furthermore, ineffective state govt. support exacerbates these issues. Thus, corporate agriculture may be a solution to the Indian agricultural sector, but it requires a deep thought and innovative legislation so that neither the corporations nor the producers or farmer suffer. Food supply depends on agricultural output. Agricultural development in India necessitates the development of highly creative concepts for the improvement of this area. Furthermore, farming is a physically','-','Balkrishna, A., Phour, M., Thapliyal, M. and Arya, V. (2021). Current Status of Indian Agriculture: Problems, Challenges and Solution. Biological Forum â€“ An International Journal, 13(3): 361-374.'),(3059,'102','In Vitro Propagation Studies for Late Blight Resistant Potato Variety Kufri Girdhari','Anamika Walia, Anil Bhushan, R.K. Samnotra, Anshika Gaur and Pankaj Pandotra','66 In Vitro Propagation Studies for Late Blight Resistant Potato Variety Kufri Girdhari Anamika Walia.pdf','',1,'Production of quality tubers, free from diseases and pests in potato is one of the foremost pre-conditions for obtaining good crop yields in the field. However, field multiplied tubers have low multiplication rate and prevalence of diseases and virus has been recognized as one of the major bottlenecks in potato cultivation in developing countries. An alternative method of production i.e., micropropagation can be effectively utilized for mass production of true-to-type, disease free quality planting material of potato. For the experiments on micropropagation, two explants viz., sprouts and nodal segments were cultured on MS basal medium supplemented with different hormonal combinations (BAP and kinetin). The best shoot initiation response was recorded on MS medium supplemented with BAP 0.75 mg/l in both the explants. For shoot multiplication the best response was obtained on MS medium supplemented with 0.75 mg/l BAP + 0.25 mg/l kinetin. For rooting, superior percentage rooting response ','Potato; Micropropagation; in vitro; sprouts; nodal segments; Kufri Girdhari.','A micropropagation protocol for potato variety Kufri Girdhari was optimized from the study. This protocol will provide the base for the disease free and high-quality mass production of studied variety through in vitro technique.','-','Walia, A., Bhushan, A., Samnotra, R.K., Gaur, A. and Pandotra, P. (2021). In Vitro Propagation Studies for Late Blight Resistant Potato Variety Kufri Girdhari. Biological Forum â€“ An International Journal, 13(3): 375-380.'),(3060,'102','A Situational Analysis of Pradhan Mantri Krishi Sichai Yojna: A Boon for Farmers','Acharya Balkrishna, Deepika Srivastava, Jyoti Sharma, Muskan Chauhan, Gunjan Sharma and Vedpriya Arya','67 A Situational Analysis of Pradhan Mantri Krishi Sichai Yojna A Boon for Farmers Vedpriya Arya.pdf','',1,'Pradhan Mantri Krishi Sichai Yojna (PMKSY) encourages water conservation in order to alleviate the country\'s developing water scarcity issues. The scheme effortlessly tries to converge irrigation outlay at the field level to ameliorate ingress of water on the farm, upgrade efficiency of on-farm water to minimize wastage and escalates its availability, intensify recharge of aquifers, implement precision irrigation and other water efficient technologies, increase cultivable area under irrigation, implementing sustainable ways for water conservation, secure integrated management of rain-fed areas by applying watershed method, groundwater regeneration, runoff arrest, promote extension activities for farmers and grass-roots field functionaries on water harvesting, water management and crop alignment. In a nutshell, there is endeavour for removing hurdles, establishing responsibilities, openness is being maintained, and awareness is being raised so as to accomplish time-bound goals. The effo','PMKSY, Irrigated area, Water management, Impact.','Irrigation has gained traction in recent years, with a greater concentration on huge and medium/multipurpose irrigation projects. More money is expected to be spent on numerous initiatives that have been declared as part of officially funded schemes and programmes. However, the success of these programmes has been not up to mark. Despite the government\'s much-needed push, there are major inter-component differences. While the WDC and HKKP components have made reasonable progress, the AIBP and PDMC components have not. There are also considerable differences in achievement rates between states. While Gujarat, Uttar Pradesh, Maharashtra, Madhya Pradesh, Karnataka, and Telangana have done admirably under the PMKSY-AIBP component, Jammu & Kashmir, Punjab, Goa, Kerala, Rajasthan, and Manipur have underperformed. In light of the current scenario, the PMKSY must be strengthened in order to build the essential irrigation infrastructure. In the irrigation sector, there has to be a greater empha','-','Balkrishna, A., Srivastava, D., Sharma, J., Chauhan, M., Sharma, G. and Arya, V. (2021). A Situational Analysis of Pradhan Mantri Krishi Sichai Yojna: A Boon for Farmers. Biological Forum â€“ An International Journal, 13(3): 381-386.'),(3061,'102','Influence of Foliar Feeding of NAA and Boron on Growth, Flowering, Fruiting, and Yield of Winter Season Guava (Psidium guajava L.) cv. Lâ€“49','Dipankar Singh Badal and V.K. Tripathi','68 Influence of Foliar Feeding of NAA and Boron on Growth Flowering Fruiting and Yield of Winter Season Guava Psidium guajava L. cv. L 49 Dipankar Singh Badal.pdf','',1,'An experiment was carried out at Horticulture Garden, Department of Fruit Science, Chandra Shekhar Azad University of Agriculture & Technology Kanpur (U.P.), India, during two consecutive years i.e., 2018-19 and 2019-20 to assess the influence of foliar feeding of NAA and Boron on growth, flowering, fruiting and yield of winter season guava cv. Lucknow-49. The foliar application of micronutrients along with plant growth regulators plays an important role in manipulating many physiological phenomena, improving the yield and quality and enhanced the productivity of plants by fulfilling the nutritional needs of fruit crops. Sixteen treatments viz., four levels each of NAA (0, 50, 75, and 100 ppm) and Boron (0, 0.4, 0.6, and 0.8%) with their combinations were used, which were replicated thrice in FCRD. From the experiments, it is reported that spray of NAA @75 ppm individually, significantly maximized length of the shoot (16.97 and 17.04 cm), diameter of the shoot (0.40 cm during both the ','Guava, boron, NAA, Winter Season, Growth, Flowering, Fruiting and Yield.','Based on results obtained in the present investigation, it is concluded that the doses of NAA (75 ppm) and boron (0.6%) individually or in combination significantly maximized length of the shoot, diameter of the shoot, number of leaves with number of flowers per shoot, fruit percent, fruit retention per cent, number of fruits and fruit yield per branch with minimum fruit drop during both years of investigation in guava cv. L-49. Thus, in the light of the above achievement, 75 ppm NAA in conjunction with 0.6% boron may be recommended safely to the guava growers for profitable crop production under the Gangetic plains of India. The above recommendations if adopted systematically and correctly, possess the potential of improving the economy and prosperity of the country.','-','Badal, D.S. and Tripathi, V.K. (2021). Influence of Foliar Feeding of NAA and Boron on Growth, Flowering, Fruiting, and Yield of Winter Season Guava (Psidium guajava L.) cv. Lâ€“49. Biological Forum â€“ An International Journal, 13(3): 387-391.'),(3063,'102','Effect of Organic Farming on Input and Income in Eastern States of India','Acharya Balkrishna, Pawan Kumar, Vedpriya Arya, Ashwani Kumar, Gunjan Sharma, Ashish Dhyani and Ritika Joshi','69 Effect of Organic Farming on Input and Income in Eastern States of India Dr. Ritika.pdf','',1,'Organic agriculture practices play a pivotal role in the improvement of soil physicochemical activity and ecosystem balance. This study deals with the effect of farmer training conducted as per the guideline of Agriculture Skill Council of India (ASCI) & National Skill Development Cooperation (NSDC) on organic farming input and income of small as well as marginal scale farmers of Assam, Bihar, Jharkhand and West Bengal. ASCI trained 24 scientist of Patanjali Organic Research Institute (PORI). The PORI scientists trained 96 farmers in selected states and they in turn trained 8413 farmers. Farming inputs showed that the maximum profit i.e. Rs. 35,300 for rice in Assam and 30,500 for paddy hybrid in Jharkhand followed by Bihar and West Bengal. The study concluded that the current training module supports farmer to improve their life style by organic farming practices.','Farming input, Livelihood improvement, Organic farming, Training programme. ','PORI provide immense support in organic farming for doubling of farmerâ€™s income with maintenance of ecosystem and reduce heavy metal contamination. However, it state that more rigorous scientific assessments at both experimental as well as field level are needed in order to cope up organic agricultural system with clear sets of management.\r\nIn Assam, tea, litchi, areca nut, strawberry and mushroom were seen high profit fetching crops. Rice alone cannot compensate the cost of cultivation. As a thumb rule, legumes like green gram, Black gram Subabul, fodder crop may be included in the system. In states like Jharkhand, organic farming is recommended for the farmers in rainfed area in the state with some support of inputs like seed and bio-fertilizers through National scheme or state organic policy. More mechanization by developing and supplying low cost implements may help the farmers to address the labor issue. More efforts can be made to promote organic farming by making clusters and ','-','Balkrishna, A., Kumar, P., Joshi, R., Kumar, A., Sharma, G., Dhyani, A. and Arya, V. (2021). Effect of Organic Farming on Input and Income in Eastern States of India. Biological Forum â€“ An International Journal, 13(3): 392-397.'),(3064,'102','Response of NPK through Drip Fertigation on Growth and Floral Parameters of Chrysanthemum','Ashok Choudhary, Ajit Kumar, Akansha Nayak, B.D. Bhuj, R. Srivastava, V.K. Rao and S.K. Guru','70 Response of NPK through Drip Fertigation on Growth and Floral Parameters of Chrysanthemum Ashok Choudhary.pdf','',1,'A field experiment was carried out from early July to end of March during the years 2019-21 at Model Floriculture Centre, G.B. Pant University of Agriculture and Technology, Pantnagar to study the effect of NPK through drip fertigation on vegetative and floral growth of chrysanthemum with five treatment combination viz, T1-100:150:100 kg NPK/ha/year, T2-100:150:100 kg NPK/ha/year, T3-100:150:100 kg NPK/ha/year, T4-75:112.5:75 kg NPK/ha/year, T5-75:112.5:75 kg NPK/ha/year at vegetative, bud and flowering stage. The treatment T3 (NPK @ 100:150:100 kg/ha/year) recorded maximum plant height, number of primary branches, stem diameter, days to first flower appearance, number of buds per plant and flower yield per plant over rest of the treatments during both the years of investigation. The results suggested that application of NPK @ 100:150:100 kg/ha/year through drip fertigation helps to achieve higher vegetative and floral growth of chrysanthemum under Tarai region of Uttarakhand.','NPK, fertigation, chrysanthemum, vegetative traits, floral attributes.','On the basis of results obtained in present investigation, it can be concluded that the application of NPK @ 100:150:100 kg /ha/year, at vegetative, bud and flowering stage through drip fertigation may positively accelerate the vegetative and reproductive stage as well as for commercial cultivation of chrysanthemum. ','-','Choudhary, A., Kumar, A., Nayak, A., Bhuj, B.D., Srivastava, R., Rao, V.K. and Guru, S.K. (2021). Response of NPK through Drip Fertigation on Growth and Floral Parameters of Chrysanthemum. Biological Forum â€“ An International Journal, 13(3): 398-401.'),(3065,'102','Influence of Organic Manures and Molybdenum on Growth and Yield of Groundnut (Arachis hypogaea L.)','Rama Devi. B., Vikram Singh, Dhananjay Tiwari, Sudhakar M., and Rakesh M.','71 Influence of Organic Manures and Molybdenum on Growth and Yield of Groundnut _Arachis hypogaea L._ RAMA DEVI.pdf','',1,'A Field experiment was carried out during kharif season of 2020 at Research Farm, Krishi Vignana Kendra, Yagantipalli, Kurnool District, (A. P.), to study the effect of organic manures and molybdenum on growth and yield of groundnut (Arachis hypogaea L.) experiment laid with 3 treatments of organic manures (FYM 10t/ha, Vermi Compost 4t/ha, Poultry Manure 5t/ha) and another three levels of molybdenum (0.5, 1.0,1.5 kg/ha). These 9-treatment combination was laid out in Randomize Block Design. The results revealed thatviz: Plant height (49.93cm), number of nodules per plant (38.57), dry weight (37.93 g/plant) were recorded significantly higher with application of 5 t/ha PM + 1.5 kg/ha Molybdenum. Number of pods per plant (22.67), seed yield (2325 kg/ha) and haulm yield (3396 kg/ha) were recorded significantly higher with application of 5 t/ha PM + 1.5 kg/ha Molybdenum. Higher gross returns (1,22,661.3 `/ha), net return (53,925.39 `/ha) and benefit cost ratio (1.13) was obtained with appl','Molybdenum, Vermicompost, Poultry manure, FYM, Groundnut yield attributes.','It was concluded that combination of poultry manure 5 t/ha with 1.5 kg/ha molybdenum recorded significantly higher Productivity and profitability from Groundnut cultivation with grain yield (2325 kg/ha), gross return (1,22,661.3 INR/ha), net returns (53,925.39 `/ha) benefit cost ratio (1.13) for profitable cultivation of groundnut. As this combination provides good quality produce in groundnut cultivaton with lesser impact on human health and environment and improving organic matter content in soil','-','Rama Devi. B., Vikram Singh, Dhananjay Tiwari, Sudhakar. M., and Rakesh M. (2021). Influence of Organic Manures and Molybdenum on Growth and Yield of Groundnut (Arachis hypogaea L.). Biological Forum â€“ An International Journal, 13(3): 402-406.'),(3066,'102','Chemical Fertilizers and Pesticides in Indian Agriculture: Effect on Human Health and Environment','Acharya Balkrishna, Jitendra Kumar Pandey, Pankaj Kumar Tripathi, Ritika Joshi and Vedpriya Arya','72 Chemical Fertilizers and Pesticides in Indian Agriculture Effect on Human Health and Environment Vedpriya Arya.pdf','',1,'Green revolution has shown the way to the world, how to improve production in the agriculture products to achieved the food demand for the booming of worldâ€™s population. But along with the increase in the production of the food, the utilization of agrochemicals has also been increased very rapidly, and after few decades of start of green revolution, it had been increased up to the level, where it become one of the major environmental threat, which we have to address at an urgent basis. The uncontrolled use of these synthesised agrochemicals disturbing ecological dynamics, and creating several health related issues not only in the human being but in other living beings also. India is the biggest producer and consumer of agrochemicals in the world. This review is going to address the issues and impact of the production and consumption of these highly toxic and banned agrochemicals in India and how it is interfering with the health related problems. ','Chemical fertilizers, Banned pesticides, Plant growth regulators, Pollution, Human health.','Like the other developing countries, the economy of India heavily depends on agriculture. The green revolution achieved in India has been possible only because of the inputs to agriculture provided mainly by the energy sector, fertilizers, pesticides, and effective land and water resource management. But the continuous, uncontrolled, unscientific and exaggerated use of agrochemicals is adversely affecting our life, environment and biosphere at every level. They are not only responsible for water, air, soil pollutions but also disturbing the nutrients balance and pH, due to which a huge proportion of macro and microflora and fauna are under threat. They are also responsible for sever human health hazards and even death of person coming in directly or indirectly contact of these agrochemicals. Developing countries like India, which has an immense pressure of rapidly increasing human population, governments are primarily looking for industrial benefits and crop yield. But for the sustain','-','Balkrishna, A., Pandey, J.K., Tripathi, P.K., Joshi, R. & Arya, V. (2021). Chemical Fertilizers and Pesticides in Indian Agriculture: Effect on Human Health and Environment. Biological Forum â€“ An International Journal, 13(3): 407-422.'),(3067,'102','Assessment of Heterosis in Intraspecific Hybrids derived from Muskmelon (Cucumis melo L.) and Mangalore melon (Cucumis melo var. acidulous) for Yield and Quality Traits including Shelf Life','Arun Kalgudi, Ratnakar M. Shet, T. Shantappa, T. N. Lakshmidevamma, Shivanand Hongal and Vijayakumar Rathod','73 Assessment of Heterosis in Intraspecific Hybrids derived from Muskmelon _Cucumis melo L._ and Mangalore melon _Cucumis melo var. acidulous_ for Yield and Quality Traits including Shelf Life Arun Kalgudi.pdf','',1,'Muskmelon is one of the most important and widely grown crop of Cucurbitaceae family,\r\ndespite having tremendous nutritive and medicinal value it needs to improved genetically in order to\r\novercome the problems like poor shelf life, thinner fruit flesh, and larger seed cavity, late flowering and fruit\r\nmaturity. An investigation was undertaken to evaluate the extent of heterosis in intraspecific hybrids between\r\nselected genotypes of muskmelon and Mangalore melon during kharif 2019 and rabi 2020. A total of 15\r\nintraspecific hybrids were developed by crossing 4 varieties of muskmelon and 7 accessions of Mangalore\r\nmelon. Hybrids were developed using hand emasculation and hand pollination technique and the developed\r\nhybrids were evaluated using RCBD design with two replications. The results showed that, out of the 15\r\nintraspecific hybrids, 11 intraspecific hybrids showed significant positive heterosis over mid parent and only\r\nfour intraspecific hybrids were found to be superior to th','Intraspecific hybrids, Muskmelon, Mangalore melon, heterosis, shelf life.','Out of the 15 intraspecific hybrids, 11 intraspecific\r\nhybrids showed significant positive heterosis over mid\r\nparent and only four intraspecific hybrids were found to\r\nbe superior to the better parent for fruit yield per vine.\r\nThe intraspecific hybrids Haramadhu X MS 78\r\nexhibited highest and significant heterosis over both\r\nmid parent (53.20%) and better parent (42.02%)\r\nfollowed by Haramadhu X MS 28 (33.71% and\r\n20.33%) and Haramadhu X MS 30 (26.03% and\r\n15.66%). From the overall study, the results were\r\nsummarized that the intraspecific hybrid Haramadhu X\r\nMS 78 showed highest and significant heterosis over\r\nboth mid parent (53.20%) and better parent (42.02%)\r\nwith the yield capacity of 3.75 kg per vine. Apart from\r\nthat the quality traits such as flesh thickness, TSS and\r\nshelf life the hybrid ArkaSiri X MS 17 found to be\r\nsuperior compared to other hybrids and it can be further\r\nevaluated in segregating generations to identify\r\ndesirable progeny for said quality traits with\r\nmus','-','Kalgudi, A., Shet, R.M., Shantappa, T., Lakshmidevamma, T.N., Hongal, S. and Rathod, V. (2021).\r\nAssessment of Heterosis in Intraspecific Hybrids derived from Muskmelon (Cucumis melo L.) and Mangalore melon (Cucumis\r\nmelo var. acidulous) for Yield and Qua'),(3068,'102','Tolfenpyrad 15 % EC: New Broad Spectrum Pesticide to Manage Thrips and Powdery mildew in Chilli Ecosystem','A.G. Sreenivas, D.S. Aswathanaryana, Sudharani, Vijayalakshmi and Sheetal','74 Tolfenpyrad 15 EC New Broad Spectrum Pesticide to Manage Thrips and Powdery mildew in Chilli Ecosystem A.G. Sreenivas.pdf','',1,'Chilli is an important commercial spice crop, in which sucking pests and powdery mildew are the major impediments. In this context, a field experiment was conducted at main agricultural research station Raichur, during kharif 2011-12 and 2012-13, to evaluate the bio-efficacy of new and third generation neonicotinoid group molecule tolfenpyrad 15 % EC at various dosages against chilli thrips, (Scirtothrips dorsalis) and powdery mildew (Leveillula taurica). Results revealed that, tolfenpyrad 15 % EC at 150 g a.i/ha was found superior as it recorded less number of thrips (3.33/leaf) which resulted in higher dry chilli yield of 26.24 q/ha. Further, when its efficacy was tested separately against powdery mildew the compound at same dosage could able to reduce the disease with PDI of 25.47 and 29.11 (mean 22.56 %) together with maximum yield. In vitro evaluation of tolfenpyrad 15 % EC at different concentration revealed that, 150 g a.i/ha was able to inhibit spore germinati','Chilli, Tolfenpyrad, Thrips and Powdery Mildew','Tolfenpyrad 15 % EC at 150 g a.i/ha could effectively manage both thrips and powdery mildew which aided in getting maximum dry chilly yield. Being a broad spectrum pesticide works very well in curbing the menace of insect pests and diseases. Its usage is like a double edge sword whereby at one stroke two major ailments can be managed which reduces the plant protection cost hence such tools fit very well in IPM system particularly in chilli ecosystem.','-','Sreenivas, A.G., Aswathanaryana, D.S., Sudharani, Vijayalakshmi and Sheetal (2021). Tolfenpyrad 15 % EC: New Broad Spectrum Pesticide to Manage Thrips and Powdery mildew in Chilli Ecosystem. Biological Forum â€“ An International Journal, 13(3): 429-437.'),(3069,'102','Unveiling Role of Agricultural Mechanization in Improving Production and Yield','Acharya Balkrishna, Sakshi, Vedpriya Arya, Nidhi Sharma and Gunjan Sharma','75 Unveiling Role of Agricultural Mechanization in Improving Production and Yield Gunjan Sharma.pdf','',1,'India is the 2nd biggest country in the world on the parameter of population and more than 50% of population engaged in agricultural practices. Agricultural mechanisation entails the use of farm equipment & implements and power sources in order to reduce draft animal and human labour, enhance cropping intensity, precision, and timeliness of crop input utilisation, and diminish damages at various phases of crop production. Thus the ultimate goal of mechanization\'s is to increase overall productivity and production at the lowest possible cost and without amplifies the human inconvenience. The Green Revolution in India is considered as one of the greatest attainment of the 20th century in promoting agricultural mechanisation in enhancing production. The main objective of this paper is to identify the influence of agriculture mechanization in India majorly after green revolution. A huge boost in farm power availability, food production, and economics has resulted from agricultural mechanis','Mechanization, Farm power availability, Productivity, Power tiller.','To sum up, farm mechanisation enhanced agricultural production and profitability by increasing the speed with which tasks were completed, the quality of the job performed, and the efficient use of crop inputs. Farm mechanisation, without a doubt, displaced animal power by 60 to 100%. As a result of the manufacture, maintenance, servicing, and sales of tractors, mechanisation increased human labour employment for on-farm and off-farm activities, and improved productivity Agricultural mechanization led India towards, growth of food production, food power availability and has a remarkable impact on Indian Economy. It leads towards quality and quantity of agricultural production and productivity. Various equipment and methods has been introduced to enhance the yield. Numerous employments are provided in several agricultural industries such as management and supervisory employments on the one hand and driving, servicing, repairing of the machines on the other. Many farmers received subsidy ','-','Balkrishna, A., Sakshi, Arya, V., Sharma, N. and Sharma, G. (2021). Unveiling Role of Agricultural Mechanization in Improving Production and Yield. Biological Forum â€“ An International Journal, 13(3): 438-443.'),(3070,'102','Rearing of Fish, Puntius gonionotus seed and Marigold, Tagetes patula Plant in NFT Aquaponics System for Economic Returns','B.C. Mohapatra, Pravati K. Sahoo, N.K. Chandan, M. Mahapatra, S.K. Panda, D. Majhi and B.R. Pillai','76 Rearing of Fish, Puntius gonionotus seed and Marigold,Tagetes patula Plant in NFT Aquaponics System for Economic Returns B.C. Mohapatra.pdf','',1,'An experiment was conducted for 75 days (5 November 2020 to 21 January 2021) at ICAR-CIFA, Bhubaneswar, Odisha focusing on economic evaluation of Nutrient Film Technique (NFT) aquaponics system on a pilot-scale mode for rearing puntius (Puntius gonionotus) seed and marigold (Tagetes patula) plant in it. Fish culture tank, biofilter, hydroponics tank and sump are the integral parts of one NFT aquaponic system. The experiment was conducted in six units of aquaponics system; taking three treatments in duplicate. Culture tanks of each unit were stocked with 200 numbers of puntius advanced fry of 44-63 mm length and 3-5 g weight. Hydroponics tanks were planted with marigold plants with varying densities, i.e., 42, 63 and 84 numbers as T1, T2 and T3 respectively. Random sampling method was followed for data analysis. After 75 days, advanced fingerlings were harvested with size 100-147 mm length and 20-56 g weight with survivability rate of 92.33Â±2.31%. As there was no significant difference','NFT aquaponics; Hydroponics; Fish seed rearing; Marigold production; Economics returns','The present experiment revealed that the rearing of pangas seed along with marigold plants is economically viable. The production of puntius and marigold can be increased by scaling up the present design. However, for optimum plant holding capacity for the present fish culture unit, future experimentation of nutritional analysis may be helpful for maximum possible economics out of the developed NFT aquaponics model. The beneficial outcomes of the study are; an annual return of INR 498 per m2 land area; greener environment; integrated aquaculture; minimizes the wastage of water; organic and healthy food availability; etc. With the current depletion rate of arable land and water scarcity, the present system can prove to be sustainable in producing crops with limited resource usage. Also as a hobby, this type of system in the backyards can provide a greener environment and healthy food to common people. This type of integrated system could also become a reliable agriculture method that pl','-','Mohapatra, B.C., Sahoo, P. K., Chandan, N.K., Mahapatra, M., Panda, S.K., Majhi, D. and Pillai, B.R. (2021). Rearing of Fish, Puntius gonionotus seed and Marigold, Tagetes patula Plant in NFT Aquaponics System for Economic Returns. Biological Forum â€'),(3071,'100','Role of Krishi Vigyan Kendras in Strengthening Agriculture Extension in India','Acharya Balkrishna, Brijesh Kumar and Vedpriya Arya','100 Role of Krishi Vigyan Kendras in Strengthening Agriculture Extension in India Vedpriya Arya.pdf','',1,'Krishi Vigyan Kendras (KVKs) are an important component of the agricultural extension services in India. The network of KVKs, established throughout the country, has played an important role in the â€œlab-to-landâ€ transfer of technologies. It helps in the innovation, refinement and diffusion of technologies and knowledge to the farming community. It acts as an interface between researchers and farmers, and thus, helps in the development of agricultural practices suitable for specific agro-climatic zones. Besides its core activities, it also encourages entrepreneurship among the rural workforce through various vocational/skill training programmes. It is working in sync with the various government initiatives, and helping to enhance farmersâ€™ income. Ever since its inception, it has undergone various changes to become more pro-active and efficient. Since it works at the grass-roots level, with each district having at least one KVK, it is critical for the evolution of Indian agricultur','Krishi Vigyan Kendras, Agricultural system, Agricultural extension, Information and Communication Technology.','The changing dynamics of agriculture in the country necessitates a fresh approach to agricultural extension in the country. A farmer-centric approach should be adopted to make agriculture viable. Climate change and depleting agricultural resources will challenge the food and nutritional security of the county in the coming decades. Hence, the need of the hour is to make agriculture future-ready through the innovation use of various resources. KVKs will play a major role in this endeavour by being at the forefront of change. It will be the crucial link between researchers and farmers for the translation of modern agricultural technologies to the farm. Similarly, through emphasis on various sub-sectors of agriculture and secondary agriculture, KVKs will ensure more income for the farmers and help in doubling their income.','-','Balkrishna, A., Kumar, B. and Arya, V. (2021). Role of Krishi Vigyan Kendras in Strengthening Agriculture Extension in India. Biological Forum â€“ An International Journal, 13(2): 688-694'),(3072,'100','Technological Interventions in the Physicochemical Analysis of Food Products: Validation of Nutraceutical Content','Shailja Mishra, Deepika Srivastava and Nidhi Sharma','101 Technological Interventions in the Physicochemical Analysis of Food Products Validation of Nutraceutical Content Shailja Mishra.pdf','',1,' Physicochemical characteristics are important in various sectors, including pharmaceuticals, biotechnology, and food industry. It has an impact on many phases of food processing (acceptance, operation, packing, and transportation), as well as the food\'s final safety and quality. Food nutraceuticals are taken as a reference to understand the currently used procedures for assessing their molecules like proteins, vitamins, carbohydrates, fatty acids, triacylglycerols etc. by using modern techniques such as high-performance liquid chromatography (HPLC), gas chromatography-mass spectrometry (GC-MS), flame ionization detector (FID), supercritical fluid chromatography (SFC-UV) etc. Modern technical advancements in analytical equipment and devices used to assess the physicochemical analysis of the material, as well as their benefits over conventional approaches connected with physicochemical analysis and testing facilities across the world. This article discusses different types of physicoche','Nutraceuticals, analytical techniques, HPLC, GC-MS','The present work has reviewed the analytical techniques currently used to identify and quantify the biological active components in food matrices. The strategies of metabolic profiling mentioned in this scientific report are non-targeted metabolomics. The advent of targeted metabolomics in association with existing analytical techniques and statistical tools (principal component analysis, chemometrics etc.) is indispensable. With emergence of green consumerism, regulatory bodies have also started to consider the regulated use of bioactive components; hence, targeted metabolomics will play a vital role in days to come. The targeted metabolomics will result in acquisition of in depth information on nutraceuticals. This will help identify newer nutraceuticals and also its clinical trials so as to have better knowledge about its fate inside human body','-','Mishra, S., Srivastava, D. and Sharma, N. (2021). Technological Interventions in the Physicochemical Analysis of Food Products: Validation of Nutraceutical Content. Biological Forum â€“ An International Journal, 13(2): 695-707.'),(3073,'100','Pradhan Mantri Kisan Samman Nidhi (PM-KISAN): A Golden Initiative by Indian Government','Acharya Balkrishna, Hemant Sharma, Nidhi Sharma, Sakshi and Vedpriya Arya','102 Pradhan Mantri Kisan Samman Nidhi (PM-KISAN) A Golden Initiative by Indian Government Vedpriya Arya.pdf','',1,'India has 1.38 billion population and more than half of the populace are engaged in agriculture for their employment. To meet financial requirement of farmers to procure inputs for better crop health and productivity, Indian Government has launched Pradhan Mantri Kisan Samman Nidhi (PM-KISAN) scheme in 2018. This review aims to study the implementation goals and benefits provided to the farmers under the Pradhan Mantri Kisan Samman Nidhi (PM-KISAN) scheme. All marginal and small landowners involved in agriculture and farm operations benefited from the scheme, as they are supported with Rs. 6000 per year to cover their agricultural needs. Interestingly, there is approximately 28.73% hike in the number of farmers benefitted under this scheme from 2018 to 2021-2022, and an amount of about Rs. 22,000 crores have been successfully transferred to the farmersâ€™ bank account during Covid-19 lockdown. In addition, Rs 75,000 crores were distributed directly till August, 2020 without any commiss','PM-KISAN, Beneficiaries, Mobile app, Marginal farmers.','PM-KISAN scheme provided the input and harvesting support to the agricultural land holder of different states and union territories. This might also defend them from deteriorating within side the clutches of moneylenders for meeting such charges and ensure their continuance in the farming activities. Easily accessible mobile application has been developed, farmer can collect all the information regarding the scheme using this app. The PM-KISAN, is launched in 2018, however there is need to arrange various open conference and training programme through which the land holder can get more useful information. The scheme is like a boon to farmers that somehow improved their situation. In the future, the government should boost its budget so that it can meet emerging needs of farmers.','-','Balkrishna, A., Sharma, H., Sharma, N., Sakshi and Arya, V. (2021). Pradhan Mantri Kisan Samman Nidhi (PM-KISAN): A Golden Initiative by Indian Government. Biological Forum â€“ An International Journal, 13(2): 708-710.'),(3074,'85','Grain Size Analysis of Punem Lake','Sinam Reema Chanu','8 Grain Size Analysis of Punem Lake Sinam Reema Chanu.pdf','',1,'','','','',''),(3075,'102','Evaluation of the Performance of Micronutrients on Growth and Quality Parameters of Linseed (Linum usitatissimum L.)','Swati Kumari, Ritu Kumari and Santosh Kumar','77 Evaluation of the Performance of Micronutrients on Growth and Quality Parameters of Linseed _Linum usitatissimum L._ Swati Kumari.pdf','',1,'Oilseed crops are the second most important contributing factor of agricultural economy in the country, next to cereals. Average yield of oilseed i.e. linseed in India is very low due to many constraints like poor soil fertility, insufficient application of macro and micronutrients, and traditional crop cultivation practices. Micronutrients mainly zinc and boron play a significant role in the increasing productivity growth and metabolic operations of plant associated with photosynthesis, and enzyme activities involved in synthesis of metabolites. Deficiency of these two micronutrients in soil adversely influences the growth and development of linseed which ultimately abate its oil quality. So, for addressing this issue an experiment was conducted during rabi, season of 2020-21 at the Research farm, Bihar Agricultural College, Sabour, Bhagalpur. Nine treatments of application practices of micronutrients were laid out in randomized block design with three replications. Result revels tha','Dry matter, Linseed growth and development, Micronutrients, Oil yield, Oil content','Earlier linseed production occurred mainly in rainfed area, since then there has been a continuous decline in linseed area in the country during the last four decades. So, there is need to develop appropriate agronomic practices to increase higher crop yield. Surveys showed that there is an increase of about 50% in food production due to use of chemical fertilisers. Poor management of inputs is one of the limiting factors for low yield of linseed. The amount of fertilizers that a crop needs depends on many factors including climatic conditions, plant species and cultivar, and soil fertility levels. To obtain higher crop yield and quality, suitable agro techniques like judicious use of fertilizers especially micronutrients zinc and boron is the major research threats for agronomic research workers. On the basis of the results of present investigation, it may be concluded that application of RDF (80:40:40 NPK kg ha-1) + foliar application of ZnSO4 @ 0.5 % + foliar application of Borax @ ','-','Kumari, S., Kumari, R. and Kumar, S. (2021). Evaluation of the Performance of Micronutrients on Growth and Quality Parameters of Linseed (Linum usitatissimum L.). Biological Forum â€“ An International Journal, 13(3): 450-453.'),(3076,'102','Integrated Nitrogen Management Strategy for Growth and Yield of Cashew (Anacardium occidentale L.)','S.V. Patil, Nagaraja, G., Manjunath R., Rajakumar G.R. and Adiga, J.D.','78 Integrated Nitrogen Management Strategy for Growth and Yield of Cashew _Anacardium occidentale L._ S.V. Patil.pdf','',1,'Cashew crop is facing many challenges related to its nutrition and yield. Hence, to address the issue, the present study was carried out at Regional Horticulture and Extension Centre, University of Horticultural Sciences Campus, GKVK, Bengaluru, Karnataka during the years 2016-17, 2017-18 & 2018-19 by employing factorial randomized complete block design with 13 treatments and three replications to the nitrogen management strategies for the growth and yield of cashew nut. The growth parameters like trunk girth, plant height and canopy spread didnâ€™t show any significant difference among the sources and different combinations levels, whereas the number of flowering laterals per square meter and cashew nut yield per plant was significantly higher in 100 % RDN through vermicompost. Among levels of applications, 50 % organic and 50% inorganic combination recorded significantly higher number of flowering laterals per square meters and cashew nut yield per plant compared to other levels of ','Integrated nitrogen management, cashew, vermicompost.','The research aimed at integrating various organic and inorganic sources of nutrients in cashew crop. In the present scenario, organic inputs and practices are becoming costly and challenging. Hence, the present study was conducted to integrate the two different sources. The growth and yield attributes were maximum when 100 % N equivalent was supplied through vermicompost followed by 75% N through vermicompost + 25% N through Urea. Since the cashew is perennial in nature, the application of organic manures helps to improve the physical, chemical and biological properties of the soil thereby better utilization of nutrients supplied through vermicompost would result in getting better yield. Nitrogen availability in the soil due to different interactions increased over a period of study. However, the available phosphorous was found to decline due to various sources and levels of nitrogen. The green leaf manure was superior among the three sources studied. The more availability of potas','-','Patil, S.V., Nagaraja, G., Manjunath R.,, Rajakumar G.R., and Adiga, J.D. (2021). Integrated Nitrogen Management Strategy for Growth and Yield of Cashew (Anacardium occidentale L.). Biological Forum â€“ An International Journal, 13(3): 454-459.'),(3077,'102','Genetic Divergence Studies in Cowpea [Vigna unguiculata (L.) Walp.]','Ijas Ahmed K.T., Deepanshu and V.M. Prasad','79 Genetic Divergence Studies in Cowpea [Vigna unguiculata _L._ Walp.] Ijas Ahmed KT.pdf','',1,'The present experiment was carried out during February to May, 2021 in Research Field, Department of Horticulture, SHUATS, Prayagraj, Uttar Pradesh. To study the genetic divergence studies in cowpea [Vigna unguiculata (L.) Walp.]. The experiment was conducted in Randomized Block Design (RBD), consisting of thirty three genotypes, replicated thrice. The result from the present investigation revealed that genotype IC 201098 (9871.32 kg/h) and genotype IC 202743 (9837.61 kg/h) are desirable with maximum pod yield respectively. The analysis of variance indicated highly significant differences among genotypes for almost all the characters. Heritability was recorded for all characters which were highly heritable except plant height at maturity (88.97 cm) and TSS (Â°Brix) 92.68, in which heritability was recorded moderate. PCV is higher than GCV for all characters except number of seeds per plant (31.10) which was recorded same. Higher magnitude of GCV and PCV was recorded for number of seed','Genetic variability, GCV, PCV, heritability (h2), Correlation, Cowpea.','The results from the present investigation revealed that maximum pod yield was recorded in IC 201098. Number of seeds per plant and plant height at maturity was recorded high estimates of GCV and PCV. Plant height at flowering (cm), Plant height at maturity (cm), Number of nodes on main stem, Days to 50% flowering, days to 50% maturity, no. of pods per peduncle, no. of pods per plant, no. of seeds per plant, TSS (Â°Brix) & Protein (%) shows significant positive correlation with pod yield at phenotypic and genotypic level. At genotypic and phenotypic level, plant height at flowering (cm), Days to first pod formation, Days to 50% flowering, Pod length (cm) & TSS (0Brix) had direct positive effect on Pod yield per plant.','-','Ijas Ahmed KT, Deepanshu and Prasad, V. M. (2021). Genetic Divergence Studies in Cowpea [Vigna unguiculata (L.) Walp.]. Biological Forum â€“ An International Journal, 13(3): 460-465.'),(3078,'102','Yield and Micro Nutrient Uptake of Rapeseed (Brassica campestris var. toria) under Graded Doses of Rock Phosphate and Single super Phosphate in Acidic Soils','Sanjay-Swami','80 Yield and Micro Nutrient Uptake of Rapeseed _Brassica campestris var. toria_ under Graded Doses of Rock Phosphate and Single super Phosphate in Acidic Soils Sanjay-Swami.pdf','',1,'In acidic soils, efficiency of applied phosphatic fertilizer is relatively poor due to P fixation. The availability of P also depends on the sources of applied P. The direct application of rock phosphate (RP) as a source of P may be helpful in acidic P fixing soils. It is a source of not only P, but also of many micro nutrients like iron, copper and zinc. Therefore, a pot culture experiment was carried out in winter season of 2016-17 to investigate the influence of graded doses of rock phosphate and single super phosphate in six graded doses i.e. 0, 30, 60, 90, 120 and 150 mg P kg-1 soil on yield and micro nutrient uptake of rapeseed cv. M-27 in Alfisol and Inceptisol of Meghalaya. The trial was laid out in completely randomized design with three replications. The maximum mean dry matter yield of rapeseed was recorded 16.1 g pot-1 with 120 mg P kg-1 of soil. The dry matter yield obtained with RP was of lower degree in comparison to SSP at all levels of P irrespective of different acidi','Phosphorus, sources, rapeseed, acidic soils, yield and micro nutrient uptake. ','The application of P at lower levels resulted in significant increase in dry matter yield of rapeseed under both the P sources in Alfisol and Inceptisol of Meghalaya. The dry matter yield produced with RP was of lower order as compared to SSP at each levels of applied P irrespective of soil. The concentration of micronutrients viz. Fe, Cu, Zn and Mn in rapeseed decreased with successive application of P from 0-150 mg kg-1 in both the acidic soils i.e. Alfisol and Inceptisol, irrespective of sources of applied P, whereas, uptake of these micro nutrients increased up to 90 mg P kg-1 soil and thereafter decreased up to the highest level of applied P. The uptake of micro nutrients by rapeseed was observed to be of lower order in Alfisol with RP source of applied P compared with SSP. Therefore, application of 90 mg of P kg-1 of soil with SSP may be advised to the farmers of Meghalaya for getting higher yield of mustard in Alfisol and Inceptisol.','-','Sanjay-Swami (2021). Yield and Micro Nutrient Uptake of Rapeseed (Brassica campestris var. toria) under Graded Doses of Rock Phosphate and Single super Phosphate in Acidic Soils. Biological Forum â€“ An International Journal, 13(3): 466-475.'),(3079,'102','Nanoparticles as Nano-priming Agent for Antifungal and Antibacterial Activity against Plant Pathogens','Pranab Dutta, Gitashree Das, Sarodee Boruah, Arti Kumari, Madhusmita Mahanta, Alinaj Yasin, Anwesha Sharma and Lipa Deb','81 Nanoparticles as Nano-priming Agent for Antifungal and Antibacterial Activity against Plant Pathogens Pranab Dutta.pdf','',1,'Engineered nanoparticles have become important in the areas of nanotechnology which entered into all aspects of human life now-a-days. In field of agriculture also, nanotechnology has been used. Nanoparticles have promising solution over traditional agricultural practices. In seed technology long term storage and field stand are the major challenges which is very difficult to handle. Seeds nanopriming enhances seed germination and improves crop productivity. It also improves the biochemical parameters of the seeds. Nanoparticles also have antifungal and antibacterial activity against many fungal and bacterial plant pathogens. In this article we reviewed the importance of nanopriming for better plant health management. In this review article emphasis has been given on the how the nanoparticle can be better used for as priming agents for better seed storage, field stand without any negative effect on the biochemical parameters. The recent achievement on use of nanoparticle as nanoprimin','Antibacterial activity, antifungal activity, nanopriming, nanotechnology','Nanopriming reduced the difference between the time of sowing and seedling emergence and improve the germination rate and total germination percentage. Priming with nanoparticles can also increase the shoot and root length, improve fresh and dry weight. Nanoparticles are also have a great potential against fungal and bacterial pathogen. It can inhibit or suppress the growth of fungi and bacteria in both in vitro and in vivo condition. In the future the cited work can utilized by the research scholar and scientific community for the better management of seed related problem with better plant stand in the field condition. ','-','Dutta, P., Das, G., Boruah, S., Kumari, A., Mahanta, M., Yasin, A., Sharma, A. and Deb, L (2021). Nanoparticles as Nano-priming Agent for Antifungal and Antibacterial Activity against Plant Pathogens. Biological Forum â€“ An International Journal, 13(3): ');
INSERT INTO `pdf_upload` VALUES (3080,'102','Abundance and Diversity of Conidae and Cypraeidae in the Intertidal Zone of Bucas Grande Island, Surigao del Norte, Philippines','Gloria Lonop-Galan, Noe P. Mendez and Heidi C. Porquis','82 Abundance and Diversity of Conidae and Cypraeidae in the Intertidal Zone of Bucas Grande Island, Surigao del Norte, Philippines Noe P. Mendez.pdf','',1,'Bucas Grande Island has rich marine biodiversity; however, little is known of these resources in scientific reports. Hence, a preliminary observation on the abundance and diversity of Conidae and Cypraeidae was carried out in the coastal shores of Bucas Grande Island, Surigao del Norte, Philippines. This study was conducted in the four sampling stations, viz., Socorro (Lungsod), Puyangi, Mabua, and Dapia. Sampling was done in May 2014 during low tide with plots of 20 Ã— 20m laid on the intertidal flats for species acquisition. Beach combing and systematic snorkel surveys were done in the plots. All species under Conidae and Cypraeidae observed in the sampling plots were counted. Twelve (12) species were documented with 468 individuals: six for Conidae (Conus coronatus, C. ebraeus, C. magus, C. marmoreus, C. miles and C. vexillum) as well as for Cypraeidae (Cypraea annulus, C. arabica, C. argus, C. eglantina, C. isabella and C. vitellus). Abundance value of Conidae was greater (70%) tha','Conidae, Conus ebraeus, Cypraea annulus, Cypraeidae, Marine Protected Area','A total of 12 species (six species of Conidae and six species of Cypraeidae) were collected with 468 individuals. Gastropod abundance was highest in Socorro (Lungsod) with 43.20%. The Conidae (70%) was the most abundant family with 326 individuals, while Cypraeidae (30%) with 142 individuals. Among these species, C. ebraeus (25.85%) had the highest abundance in Conidae, while C. annulus (26.50%) in Cypraeidae. This paper bears significance, since it will be an added literature on gastropod species in poorly studied area in Bucas Grande Island.','-','Gloria Lonop-Galan, Mendez, N.P. and Porquis, H.C. (2021). Abundance and Diversity of Conidae and Cypraeidae in the Intertidal Zone of Bucas Grande Island, Surigao del Norte, Philippines. Biological Forum â€“ An International Journal, 13(3): 483-487.'),(3081,'102','Studies on Preparation of Banana Smoothie by using Acid Modified Psyllium Husk','Hemanth M., Deshpande H.W., Katke S.D., Machewad G.M. and Gangakhedkar P.S.','83 Studies on Preparation of Banana Smoothie by using Acid Modified Psyllium Husk Hemanth M.pdf','',1,'In the present study efforts were made for preparing smoothie using acid modified psyllium husk. The prepared smoothie was analyzed for physiochemical, proximate, sensorial and microbial parameters. Smoothie was prepared with 400 ml of milk, 400 gm apple pulp, 80 gm sugar, 70 ml water and 50 ml honey. Acid modification of psyllium husk was done using HCL in ethanol as solvent. Acid modified psyllium husk of 0.75% HCL of ratio 1:6 in ethanol solvent had better functional properties, hence it was used in smoothie samples at different percentages of 0.4, 0.6 and 0.8. Blending of ingredients was done until fine mixture of smoothie was obtained and was stored at 2-10Â°C before addition of psyllium husk. Organoleptic evaluation of the smoothie with acid modified psyllium husk was performed and the results showed that 0.6% psyllium husk of 0.75% HCL in 1:6 ethanol solvent had maximum score among all the samples as per the hedonicscale.','Psyllium husk, Acid Modified, Banana Smoothie, Isabgol, Fruit Smoothie.','Modified psyllium husk had better functional properties than the native psyllium without affecting the nutritional and sensory parameters, hence it was used in the preparation of sample. Smoothie prepared with 0.6% modified psyllium husk of 0.75% HCL of ratio 1:6 ethanol solvent was the best among all the other samples with the hedonic score of overall acceptability 8.0. Further the microbial quality results show that that it was stored under hygienic conditions and found to be safe for consumption.','-','Hemanth, M., Deshpande, H.W., Katke, S.D., Machewad, G.M. and Gangakhedkar P.S. (2021). Studies on Preparation of Banana Smoothie by using Acid Modified Psyllium Husk. Biological Forum â€“ An International Journal, 13(3): 488-491'),(3082,'102','New Report on Pine Tent Caterpillar Dendrolimus pini L. (Lasiocampidae : Lepidoptera) from Eastern Ghats Forest region of Visakhapatnam, Andhra Pradesh, India','P. Seetharamu, D. Sekhar, K. Babuji Naidu and G. Ramarao','84 New Report on Pine Tent Caterpillar Dendrolimus pini L. _Lasiocampidae Lepidoptera_ from Eastern Ghats Forest region of Visakhapatnam, Andhra Pradesh, India P. Seetharamu.pdf','',1,'A field survey was conducted for insect pests on various crops grown in and around the Chintaplle forest region and on farm at Regional Agricultural Research station, Chintapalle, Andhra Pradesh, India during rabi, 2020-2021. We have reported the pine tent caterpillar/pine lappet moth Denrolimus pini L. (Lasiocampidae: Lepidoptera) on apple and pine trees for the first time from Eastern Ghats forest region of Visakhapatnam district, Andhra Pradesh, India. The incidence of tent caterpillar was first noticed during the month of December, 2020 on pine trees in the region and apple, silver oak on farm. In this report attempts are made to describe about the first occurrence of pine tent cater pillar in the eastern ghats of Andhra Pradesh. We have collected and reared the caterpillar in the entomology laboratory and identified the caterpillar based on the larval chaetotaxy i.e., mature caterpillars have soft, grey to brown hairs, thick bands of steel blue and black hairs on the tho','Lepidoptera, Lasiocampidae, Larval Chaetotaxy, morphological description, biology, New record from Eastern ghats of Andhra Pradesh, India.','As a part of the insect pest survey programme the pine tent caterpillar was noticed on pine, apple, silver oak and Jamun and reported for the first time from India in the eastern ghats of Visakhapatnaam district of Andhra Pradesh, India. There is a scope of this insect pest may switch over to other forest trees and may cause damage to the forest trees. Keeping in view of the occurrence of the insect pest on pine, silver oak and apple in this region future research will be focused on collection, identification, host range and detailed biology of the insect pest and their natural enemies and also focused on eco friendly management tactics to contain the insect pest in forest ecosystem.','-','Seetharamu, P., Sekhar2, D. K., Naidu, B. and Ramarao, G. (2021). New Report on Pine Tent Caterpillar Dendrolimus pini L. (Lasiocampidae: Lepidoptera) from Eastern Ghats Forest region of Visakhapatnam, Andhra Pradesh, India. Biological Forum â€“ An Int'),(3083,'102','Influence of Organic Seed Priming on Seed Quality Parameters of Cowpea (Vigna unguiculata L.) ','Poola Harshavardhini, Prashant Kumar Rai, Abhinav Dayal and Prashant Ankur Jain','85 Influence of Organic Seed Priming on Seed Quality Parameters of Cowpea _Vigna unguiculata L._ Poola Harshavardhini.pdf','',1,'The current experiment was conducted to evaluate the performance of organic and botanical treatments on seed quality parameters of cowpea under simulated environmental conditions. An experiment was conducted in 2021 at Postgraduate seed testing laboratory, Department of Genetics and Plant Breeding, Naini Agriculture Institute, Sam Higginbottom University of Agriculture Technology and Sciences, Prayagraj. The Cowpea cultivar Kashi Kanchan seeds were used for priming. Organic treatments are designated as Panchagavya 2%, 4%, 6%, 8%, Jeevamruth 1%, 3%, 5%, 7% botanical treatments are Curry leaf extract 5%, Moringa leaf extract 5%, Seaweed extract 5% are used as treatment for duration of 10 hours respectively. The results were revealed that among all the treatments treatment T11 seaweed extract 5% was found to be best in the germination percentage, root length, shoot length, seedlings length, seed vigour index-I, seed vigour indexâ€“II, because it contains multiple growth regulators such as','Botanical, Cowpea, Organic, Quality parameters, Seed Priming, Treatments.','Based on the positive results the overall performance under study judge T11-seaweed extract 5% treatment was found to be the best of all treatments, followed by T10 moringa leaf extract 5% for 10 hours germination percentage, root length, shoot increased length, seedling length index, seed energy index -I, seed vigour Index-II.','-','Harshavardhini, P., Rai, P.K., Dayal, A. and Jain, P.A. (2021). Influence of Organic Seed Priming on Seed Quality Parameters of Cowpea (Vigna unguiculata L.). Biological Forum â€“ An International Journal, 13(3): 497-500.'),(3084,'102','Genetic Divergence Analysis for Early Maturity, Yield and Yield Attributing Traits in Elite Rice (Oryza sativa L.) Germplasm','B. Pragathi and G. M. Lal','86 Genetic Divergence Analysis for Early Maturity, Yield and Yield Attributing Traits in Elite Rice _Oryza sativa L._ Germplasm PRAGATHI REDDY.pdf','',1,'Thirty-six genotypes of rice were imperiled to Mahalanobisâ€™s D2 analysis to appraise the genetic diversity. All these entries were classified into five clusters with maximum intra cluster distance for cluster III (153.89). The maximum distance (intercluster) between cluster II and V (658.46 cm) followed by 632.32 cm (cluster II and IV), 577.58 cm (cluster III and V), 565.13 cm (cluster I and V) and 465.78 cm (cluster II and III). Least inter cluster distance was detected for cluster I and II (241.78 cm). Among the thirteen characters studied days to attain 50% flowering (21.9%), spikelets/panicle (17.43%), test weight (15.86%) and harvest index (15.00%) were the foremostsponsors towards divergence and accounted for about 70.19% of contribution towards total divergence.','Rice, D2 analysis, Genetic divergence, Inter and Intra cluster distance.','Cluster analysis revealed that there was a lot of variation between germplasm lines in different clusters for different characteristics in the studied population. Recombination breeding between germplasm lines belonging to Cluster III, which has the shortest intra-cluster distance, can increase yield potential.Because the longest inter-cluster distance was seen between cluster II and V, cluster II and IV, cluster III and V, cluster I and IV, and cluster III and V, taking into consideration crosses involving genotypes from these clusters would promote extensive and desirable recombination in segregating generations.','-','Pragathi, B., Lal, G. M. (2021). Genetic Divergence Analysisfor Early Maturity, Yield and Yield Attributing Traits in Elite Rice (Oryza sativa L.) Germplasm. Biological Forum â€“ An International Journal, 13(3): 501-505'),(3085,'102','Recent Advances in Perception of Crop Heterosis: A Review','Deshraj Gurjar, Chethan Swamy Emmadishetty and Raghu Nandan Singh Khatana','87 Recent Advances in Perception of Crop Heterosis A Review Deshraj Gurjar.pdf','',1,'Heterosis or Hybrid Vigour is defined as the natural phenomenon in which the resulting F1 Hybrid is genetically superior to its parental inbred lines and have phenotypically and genotypically improved characteristics or traits. This phenomenon is most important in many crops using F1 hybrid cultivars. In this the progeny produced from crossing of various different cultivars have Increased biomass, higher grain yield, and better growth and development rate than their parental lines and this has been in use for production of agricultural crops for many years. Heterosis is the morphological and genetical superiority of offspringâ€™s in F1 cross over the parental population. The heterosis is very useful in hybrid development and help the plant breeders to utilize the hybrid vigour of both parental germplasm in a more precisely and efficient manner through exploitation of the heterosis and increase the outcomes of hybrid breeding program. The development of many hybrids has been done by the','Heterosis; Maize; Genome Sequence; QTL; Epigenetics','The plant breeders have done noble achievements and the heterosis also has a significant role in these achievements for about 90 years. Even though, due to an increase in population and climate changes in world have created check for food surplus and the chances for increasing food supply is being deployed day by day. But in the past decades the molecular level understanding of heterosis is not clear but in recent years it has been studied through genome sequencing, gene expression in parental inbreds and hybrids and study of metabolic pathways in hybrids helped out to understand molecular mechanism of heterosis.','-','Gurjar, D., Emmadishetty, C.S. and Khatana, R.N.S. (2021). Recent Advances in Perception of Crop Heterosis: A Review. Biological Forum â€“ An International Journal, 13(3): 506-512.'),(3086,'102','Impact of Different Altitudes on Distribution of Macro-nutrients under Different Land Use Systems of District Kupwara','Ashaq Ahmad, Shahid Ahmad Hakeem, Inayat Mustafa Khan, N.A. Ganaie, R.A. Bhat and Faisal Nabi Bhat','88 Impact of Different Altitudes on Distribution of Macro-nutrients under Different Land Use Systems of District Kupwara Shahid Ahmad Hakeem.pdf','',1,'As the soil properties change among all land use systems at different altitudes which in turn leads to change in type of vegetation and productivity among different land use systems, therefore it is not possible to develop a single short list of soil properties which is suitable for all purposes. In this back drop, the present study was undertaken to investigate the distribution of Macro-nutrients at different altitudes under different land use systems in district Kupwara. Soil samples from four land uses of high, mid and low altitude areas of Kupwara were collected up to a depth of 0-20 cm. The soil samples were studied for various physico-chemical properties and macro-nutrient status. The study revealed that texture of soils ranged between clay loam, silty clay loam to sandy loam. The soils were slightly acidic to slightly alkaline in reaction with normal electrical conductivity. Bulk density and Particle density were decreasing with increase in altitude. The pH, electrical conducti','Land Use Systems (LUS), Altitude, Available nutrients, organic matter.','The macro-nutrients show wide variation at altitude in different LUSs with nitrogen low to medium range having highest nitrogen content at high altitude and low at low altitude, while under different LUSs it was high in forestry and lowest under agriculture, phosphorous show highest mean value at high altitude and low at low altitude, while under LUSs it was high in forestry and lowest under Pastures in low and mid altitude but at high low in agriculture, potassium in medium range with highest mean value in high altitude and low in low altitude. In case of LUSs it was highest under forestry and lowest under agriculture. The physico-chemical characteristics of different sites at different altitudes under different land uses revealed that the pH varied from acidic to slightly alkaline range under different altitudes in different LUSs with lowest mean value of pH at high altitude and high at low altitude while under LUSs lowest in forestry and highest in pasture. The soil organic carbon s','-','Ahmad, A., Hakeem, S.A., Khan, I.M., Ganaie, N.A., Bhat, R.A. and Bhat, F.N. (2021). Impact of Different Altitudes on Distribution of Macro-nutrients under Different Land Use Systems of District Kupwara. Biological Forum â€“ An International Journal, 13('),(3087,'102','Effect of Different Concentration of Nutrients on Growth, Yield and Quality of Sweet Basil (Ocimum basilicum) in Hydroponics System','Ajay Kundu, Vijay Bahadur and Samir Ebson Topno','89 Effect of Different Concentration of Nutrients on Growth, Yield and Quality of Sweet Basil _Ocimum basilicum_ in Hydroponics System Ajay Kundu.pdf','',1,'The present research experiment was carried out during February 2020 to May, 2020 under Shade net at Research Field, Department of Horticulture, SHUATS, Prayagraj. The experiment was conducted in Randomized Block Design (RBD), with eight treatments, replicated thrice in hydroponics system with variety Genovese of sweet basil, From the present experimental findings it was found that structure treatment T3 Epsom salts and micros (7.5ml/10L) (MnSO4, ZnSO4, CuSO4, B, Common Salt) +Iron Chelate (7.5m1/10L) + Mono Ammonium phosphate (7.5ml/10L) +(N:P:K 11:48:00) + Calcium Nitrate (17.5ml/10L)+( N:P:K 15:00:00) + Potassium Nitrate (17.5ml/10L) +(N:P:K 13:00:44) was found to be best in terms of growth parameters, herbage yield and dry herbage yield, TSS and chlorophyll parameters of sweet basis in hydroponics system. Maximum gross return (Rs. 2269.82) and net return (Rs. 1266.85) with maximum benefit cost ratio (2.26) was also observed in treatment T3.','Nutrient film technique, vertical hydroponic system, Sweet basil. ','On the basis of results obtained, it is concluded that the treatment T3 Epsom salts and micros (7.5ml/10L) +Iron Chelate (7.5m1/10L) + Mono Ammonium phosphate (7.5ml/10L) + (N:P:K 11:48:00) + Calcium Nitrate (17.5ml/10L) + ( N:P:K 15:00:00) + Potassium Nitrate (17.5ml/10L) + (N:P:K 13:00:44) was found best in terms of growth parameters, herbage yield, dry herbage yield, TSS and Chlorophyll of sweet basil in\r\nhydroponics system under shadenet. Maximum gross return (Rs. 2269.82.) and net return (Rs. 1266.85.) with maximum cost benefit ratio (2.26) was also observed in treatment T3.\r\n','-','Kundu, A., Bahadur, V. and Topno, S.E. (2021). Effect of Different Concentration of Nutrients on Growth, Yield and Quality of Sweet Basil (Ocimum basilicum) in Hydroponics System. Biological Forum â€“ An International Journal, 13(3): 518-522.'),(3088,'102','Reorienting Youth Towards Farming: A Review','Sireesha Pulla and P.R. Nisha','90 Reorienting Youth Towards Farming A Review Sireesha Pulla.pdf','',1,'Currently, India has the world\'s greatest youth population. Only about 5 percent of rural youth is currently engaged in agriculture and when given a choice, two out of five farmers would quit farming. Rural youth migration to cities is around 45 percent, which is quite concerning. Bringing sustainability to agriculture by adequate livelihood choices is one of the strongest strategies to attract and retain youth in farming. This would help resolve the crisis of youth unemployment and migration. Improving agricultural production, food security, and the economy require the involvement of young people in the agricultural industry. The youth may be the perfect catalyst for changing the poor image of people involved in farming, particularly in rural communities, due to their greater ability to adapt new ideas, concepts, and technology, all of which are important in changing the way farming is practiced and perceived. This paper discusses about factors contributing for avoidance of agricultur','Agriculture, Attract rural youth, Retain youth, Migration.','Being the largest employer in the country, Agriculture sector holds the responsibility to provide sustainable and secure livelihoods to the farmers. Unfortunately, farming is no more viewed as a prospective employment option for the youngsters of the country because of the various constraints faced by this sector. In order to attract and retain youth in agriculture a respectable brand image is to be formed so that peopleâ€™s view on this sector is altered. Today, agriculture needs to be perceived as an enterprise and the farmer as an agri-preneur. There is a wide range of scope that need to be explored by young people because they have the creativity and desired innovation needed to reshape agriculture. What is currently needed is to formulate appropriate policies and strategies for attracting and retaining young people in this sector so that Indian agriculture can experience a new stature in the hands of young and enthusiastic farmers. Already many public and private efforts are pavi','-','Pulla, S. and Nisha, P.R. (2021). Reorienting Youth Towards Farming: A Review. Biological Forum â€“ An International Journal, 13(3): 523-527.'),(3089,'102','Effect of Organic and inorganic Fertilizers on Growth, Yield and Yield Attributing Traits of Mustard (Brassica juncea L.) cv.-Pusa Mustard 21','Babulal Choudhary and Prashant Kumar Rai','91 Effect of Organic and inorganic Fertilizers on Growth, Yield and Yield Attributing Traits of Mustard _Brassica juncea L._ cv.-Pusa Mustard 21 Babulal Choudhary.pdf','',1,'The present experiment was carried out at research field of Seed Science and Technology in the Department of Genetics and Plant Breeding, Sam Higginbottom Institute of Agriculture, Technology and Science, Naini Agriculture Institute, Prayagraj (U.P.) during Rabi season 2020-2021, in order to standardize the suitable treatment of mustard (Pusa Mustard-21). Two organic manures viz. Farmyard manure and Vermicompost are studied with different doses of NPK, are replicated thrice with thirteen treatment combinations in a Randomized Block Design (RBD). Different fertilizer treatments with control (Unhardened) were evaluated by screening of various doses viz., T0 â€“ Control, T1 â€“ FYM 10 t/ha + 25% N:P:K, T2 â€“ FYM 10 t/ha + 50% N:P:K, T3 - FYM 10 t/ha + 100% N:P:K, T4 â€“ Vermicompost 5 t/ha + 25% N:P:K, T5 â€“ Vermicompost 5 t/ha + 50% N:P:K, T6 â€“ Vermicompost 5 t/ha + 100% N:P:K, T7 â€“ FYM + Vermicompost + 25% N:P:K, T8 â€“ FYM + Vermicompost + 50% N:P:K, T9 â€“ FYM + Vermicompost + 1','Mustard seeds, FYM, N:P:K, Vermicompost, DAP, C:B Ratio, germination and seed yield.','Integrated Nutrient Management is the process to maintain the soil fertility and plant nutrient supply at an optimum level through optimization by the benefits of all possible sources of nutrients like inorganic, organic and bio-fertilizers. The only chemical fertilizer application is influential elements for yield and quality of mustard seed. So, the amelioration of soil condition and increase yield potentiality by applying combination of organic and inorganic fertilizers rather than only inorganic (chemical) fertilizers.It is concluded from the present study that the seeds of mustard variety Pusa Mustard 21 treating with FYM + Vermicompost + 100% N:P:K enhanced the Field emergence percentage, Plant height (cm), Numbers of branhes per plant, Numbers of siliqua per plant, Number of seeds per siliqua, Seed yield per plant (gm), Seed yield per plot (gm), Biological Yield per plot (gm) and Harvest index followed by Vermicompost 5 t/ha + 100% N:P:K and FYM + Vermicompost + 50% N:P:K as com','-','Rai, P.K. and Choudhary, B. (2021). Effect of Organic and inorganic Fertilizers on Growth, Yield and Yield Attributing Traits of Mustard (Brassica juncea L.) cv.-Pusa Mustard 21. Biological Forum â€“ An International Journal, 13(3): 528-535.'),(3090,'102','Stability Analysis of Indian Mango Exports','Mohammadullah, C. Murthy and Vennila, M.','92 Stability Analysis of Indian Mango Exports Mohammadullah.pdf','',1,'Major mango-growing states in India include Andhra Pradesh, Uttar Pradesh, Karnataka, Bihar, Gujarat and Tamil Nadu. Andhra Pradesh ranks first in mango production with a share of 24.48 per cent with highest productivity. The study was based on the time series, secondary data collected from different reliable resources and data were collected for the period of 2007-08 to 2019-20. Indiaâ€™s major Export Destinations during the year 2019-20 included United Arab Emirates, Saudi Arabia, Kuwait, Qatar and Nepal and it has exported fresh mangoes of 49,658.67 MT of fresh mangoes worth of Rs. 40,021.34 lakhs during the same period. In the year 2007-08 production of mango was 13,997 thousand MT which rise to 20,444 thousand MT in the year 2019-20. This is mainly due to the new highly yielding varieties developed by research institutes. There was a positive growth rate in increase in Indian imports of mango with maximum growth by Oman, Qatar, United States of America and United Kingdom. Maximum ','Trend, Markov Chain analysis, Export, Structural Composition','Horticulture is an inevitable segment playing a major role in the economy of Indian agriculture. Major mango-growing states in India include Andhra Pradesh, Uttar Pradesh, Karnataka, Bihar, Gujarat and Tamil Nadu. Andhra Pradesh ranks first in mango production with a share of 24.48 per cent with highest productivity. Indiaâ€™s major Export Destinations during the year 2019-20 included United Arab Emirates, Saudi Arabia, Kuwait, Qatar and Nepal. The increase in mango production is mainly due to the new high yielding varieties developed by research institutes. Maximum retention of the market share for India mango was by United Kingdom which was followed by Other minor importing countries, United Arab Emirates, Oman and Qatar, United States of America was the most unstable country for Indian imports as the country has started importing the mangoes from China and Pakistan which has drastically hit on the business of Indian mangoes. The final quality products fetch high remunerative prices ','-','Mohammadullah, Murthy, C. and Vennila, M. (2021). Stability Analysis of Indian Mango Exports. Biological Forum â€“ An International Journal, 13(3): 536-542.'),(3091,'102','Evaluation of Physico-chemical Properties of Soil from Different Blocks of Kaimur District, Bihar, India','Ajit Kumar Singh, Tarence Thomas, Narendra Swaroop and Tarun Kumar','93 Evaluation of Physico-chemical Properties of Soil from Different Blocks of Kaimur District, Bihar, India Ajit Kumar Singh.pdf','',1,'An appraisement of Physico-chemical properties of the soil of â€˜Kaimur Districtâ€™ an allied area of Bihar was carried out in 2020-2021. The Prime objectives of this study was to carried out the survey, collection of information of sampling sites and analysis of physical properties of soil and macro-micro nutrient status and its relation to various chemical properties of soil. For assessment 9 sampling sites were selected. Soil samples were collected with respect of depth of 0-15 cm, 15-30 cm, and 30-45 cm and analyzed the Physico-chemical properties and nutrient status of the soil. The study revealed that particle density ranges from 2.61 to 2.85 Mg m-3, bulk density ranges from 1.05 to 1.33 Mg m-3, water retaining capacity ranges from 37.44% to 63.94%. Soil textural classes were clay loam, sandy loam and sandy clay loam. The pH value ranges from 6.09 to 8.28 and electrical conductivity ranged from 0.07 dS m-1 to 0.29 dS m-1. Nitrogen (N), Phosphorus (P), Potassium (K) ranged from 22','Kaimur district, physico-chemical properties, Tropical crops, yield etc.','The foothills of Kaimur consist of alluvial soil and are naturally fertile. Soil nutrients decreases with increasing of depths because of the plant uptake and leaching. Amount of organic matter was medium in soil. pH of the soil plays an important role in soil, amount of macro and micro nutrients present in soil depends on ranges of pH. Based on this analysis soil from Kaimur district was good for cultivation and soil is having good fertility and productivity. Wheat, paddy, arhar, gram, lentil, lineseed, mustard and vegetables like tomato, brinjal, chilli, broad beans, cabbage and cauliflower can grow.\r\nStrategies to feed the expanding population in the study area will have to seek a sustainable solution that better addresses integrated soil management. To improve the soil health and reduce the cost of cultivation, the proper integrated soil management should be practices. Use of organic fertilizer and proper agronomic practices help in improving the soil health. \r\n','-','Singh, A.K., Thomas, T., Swaroop, N. and Kumar, T. (2021). Evaluation of Physico-chemical Properties of Soil from Different Blocks of Kaimur District, Bihar, India. Biological Forum â€“ An International Journal, 13(3): 543-549.'),(3092,'102','Establishment and Effect of Foliar Application of Brassinosteriods and Salicylic Acid on Vegetative Growth of Nagpur Orange (Citrus reticulata Blanco)','Rikmatchi Ch. Marak, Saket Mishra, Vijay Bahadur, Samir E. Topno and Anupriya Paul','94 Establishment and Effect of Foliar Application of Brassinosteriods and Salicylic Acid on Vegetative Growth of Nagpur Orange _Citrus reticulata Blanco_ Rikmatchi Ch. Marak.pdf','',1,'A field experiment was carried out during 2020-2021 at Horticulture Research Farm, SHUATS, Prayagraj and the aim of investigation was to determine the effect of foliar application of brassinosteriods and salicylic acid on vegetative growth of Nagpur Orange. This experiment was conducted in Randomized Block Design (RBD) with nine treatments viz. T0 Control, T1 Brassinosteriod @ 0.5ppm, T2 Brassinosteriod @ 1.0ppm, T3 Brassinosteriod @ 1.5ppm, T4 Brassinosteriod @ 2ppm, T5 Salicylic acid @ 50ppm, T6 Salicylic acid @ 100ppm, T7 Salicylic acid @ 150ppm and T8 Salicylic acid @ 200ppm were applied during the research work on Nagpur Orange. The treatment was done at vegetative growth stage at 30, 60, 90, 120, 150 and 180 DAT was calculated in each treatments which were selected in each plant. Spray of T4 Brassinosteriod @ 2ppm resulted in highest survival percentage and vegetative growth parameters like survival percentage (100% ), Mortality percentage (0.00%), plant height (69.60cm), ','Orange, Salicylic acid, Brassinosteriod, chlorophyll concentration.','Thus, it can be concluded from the findings of the present investigation that foliar application of T4 Brassinosteriod @ 2ppm resulted in highest survival percentage and vegetative growth parameters like survival percentage (100%), Mortality percentage (0.00%), plant height (69.60cm), number of leaves per plant (129.24), number of branches per plant (17.75), stem girth (3.37cm), plant spread (67.19), leaf area (13.98cm2) and Chlorophyll SPAD (75.06). Therefore, application of Brassinosteriod @ 2ppm will improve vegetative growth of newly planted Nagpur Orange plants and the growers will be economically benefited','-','Marak, R.Ch., Mishra, S., Bahadur, V., Topno, S.E. and Paul, A. (2021). Establishment and Effect of Foliar Application of Brassinosteriods and Salicylic Acid on Vegetative Growth of Nagpur Orange (Citrus reticulata Blanco). Biological Forum â€“ An Interna'),(3093,'99','Selection of Suitable Wheat Variety in Rainfed Areas using BEST WORST Method, DEX Method and Expert System Technology: An Integrated Approach','Husnain Saleem, Tehseen Ali Jilani , Muhammad Saleem Jilani, Kashif Waseem, Imran Khan, Israr Ullah Khan, Muhammad Niamatullah Babar, Muhammad Naveed, Anjum, Umar Khitab Saddozai, Hafiz Waheed ud din, Javeria Sherani, Abdul Manan and Sami Ullah','31 Selection of Suitable Wheat Variety in Rainfed Areas using BEST WORST Method, DEX Method and Expert System Technology An Integrated Approach Dr.pdf','',1,'','','','',''),(3094,'102','Effect of Potassium and Sulphur Levels on Growth and Yield of Groundnut (Arachis hypogaea L.)','T. Srikanth and Shikha Singh','95 Effect of Potassium and Sulphur Levels on Growth and Yield of Groundnut _Arachis hypogaea L._ T. Srikanth 1126.pdf','',1,'A field experiment was laid out during the kharif 2020 at Prakasam Krishi Vignan Kendra (KVK), Jayaprakashnagar, Jammikunta, Karimnagar District-505122 Telangana State to know the effect of Potassium and Sulphur on growth and yield of groundnut. Groundnut is cultivated in 2.0 lakh hectares across Telangana region making it one of the major crops of the state. It is widely grown in Mahbubnagar, Warangal, Nalgonda and Karimnagar Districts. The experiment consists of 12 treatments which included 4 levels of Potassium (0kg, 25kg, 50kg and 75kg) and 3 levels of Sulphur (0kg, 20kg and 40kg). The treatment receiving 75 kg potassium and 40kg Sulphur produced significantly higher plant height (49.93), number of nodules/plant (127.47), plant dry weight (37.43), crop growth rate (24.45), number of pods/plant (12.23), number of seeds/pod (2.08), test weight (41.32), seed yield (2677.97), halum yield (4573.89), harvest index (36.91), gross return (1,36,576.30 INR/ha) net return (90,292.86 INR/ha) a','Groundnut, Potassium and Sulphur.','Based on the findings it may be concluded that for optimum Seed yield and economics, the performance of Groundnut at 75 kg/ha Potassium + 40 kg/ha Sulphur is the best. Groundnut is generally grown on coarse-textured or sandy soils which are inherently low in SO4Â² and -S and are highly prone to leaching losses of SO42. Grain legumes and oil seeds have high sulphur requirement therefore Groundnut being a both a legume and an oilseed crop has high sulphur requirement. The conclusion drawn based on one season data only which require for further conformation for recommendation.','-','Srikanth, T. and Singh, S. (2021). Effect of Potassium and Sulphur Levels on Growth and Yield of Groundnut (Arachis hypogaea L.). Biological Forum â€“ An International Journal, 13(3): 557-561.'),(3095,'102','Biomass Production on the Hard Wood Stem Cutting of Pomegranate (Punica granatum L.) added with IBA and NAA with and without GA3','Aneeta Chaudhary and J.P. Singh','96 Biomass Production on the Hard Wood Stem Cutting of Pomegranate _Punica granatum L._ added with IBA and NAA with and without GA3 Aneeta Chaudhary.pdf','',1,'Pomegranate is quite important fruit very rich in vitamins and minerals possessing high medicinal values. Unfortunately it has not received the attention of the scientist and growers and there is lack of genuine planting material. The quality of fruits from seedling plants is very poor therefore, an experiment was conducted at the Garden, Department of Fruit Science, Chandra Shekhar Azad University of Agriculture and Technology Kanpur (U.P.) in the year of 2019- 20 and 2020-21. Growth regulators e.g. IBA and NAA each at four levels i.e. 3000, 4000, 5000, and 6000 ppm with and without 2000 ppm GA3 along with a control (Water spray) making 18 treatments in all were tried in a Randomized Block Design replicating thrice. Application of NAA 5000 ppm in association with GA3 2000 ppm maximized the shoot parameters significantly recording 7.55 shoots per cutting, 4.78 number of branches per shoot, 21.46 cm length of shoot and 5.52 mm diameter of shoot. The next effective treatment boosting th','IBA, NAA, GA3, shoot parameters and leaf attributes','It can be concluded that genuine healthy plants of pomegranate may be regenerated by hard wood stem cuttings treated with NAA 5000 ppm + GA3 2000 ppm as it was obtained by higher biomass produced. However, the cuttings treated with IBA 4000 ppm + GA3 2000 ppm exhibited better rooting performance. It is therefore suggested that systematic trials should be conducted is future using NAA 5000 ppm + IBA 4000 ppm + GA3 2000 ppm. So that the beneficial role of all the three growth regulators may be ascertained in rooting and shooting attributes together.','-','Chaudhary, A. and Singh, J.P. (2021). Biomass Production on the Hard Wood Stem Cutting of Pomegranate (Punica granatum L.) added with IBA and NAA with and without GA3. Biological Forum â€“ An International Journal, 13(3): 562-566.'),(3096,'102','Behaviour of Market Arrivals and Prices of Ragi in Karnataka','Vennila M. and C. Murthy','97 Behaviour of Market Arrivals and Prices of Ragi in Karnataka Vennila M.pdf','',1,'The present study was conducted to examine the arrivals and prices behaviour of ragi in Karnataka which was based on the secondary data from Jan 2007 to Dec 2020. Nagamangala, Bengaluru and Arsikere markets for ragi were selected for the study and computed trend in arrivals and prices with seasonal variations and constraint faced by the ragi growers. The result revealed that annual growth is increase in price of ragi every year was observed to be high in case of Bengaluru market with ` 202.52 per followed by Nagamangala market with ` 144.27 per quintal and Arsikere market with ` 131.36 per quintal. The reason for the behavior in arrivals in the selected markets is on account of huge transaction in the selected markets. It is because of the selected market doesnâ€™t depend on the districts in which highest area under ragi is observed. The prices of ragi showed increasing trending in all the selected markets which may be due to increase in consumption due to its nutritional value, which','Trend, Seasonal Indices, Arrivals and Price behaviour, Co-efficient of variation.','The area and production of ragi have made rapid strides in the country. The result revealed that annual increase in price of ragi every year was observed to be high in case of Bengaluru market with ` 202.52 per quintal followed by Nagamangala market with ` 144.27 per quintal and Arsikere market with ` 131.36 per quintal. The reason for the different behavior in arrivals in the selected markets is on account of huge transaction in the selected markets. The prices of ragi showed increasing trend in all the selected markets which may be due to increase in awareness about its nutritional value, which in turn increases the demand for ragi coupled with the inflationary trend in the prices of ragi compared to other millets. The study concludes that the involvement of market stakeholders is high in the major markets due to high demand for ragi from the point of processors. Fluctuation in market price followed by high margin of middlemen and inadequate storage was identified as the major constr','-','Vennila M. and Murthy, C. (2021). Behaviour of Market Arrivals and Prices of Ragi in Karnataka. Biological Forum â€“ An International Journal, 13(3): 567-572.'),(3097,'102','Influence of Thermal Shock Intensity on the Early Developmental Stages of Eggs in Cold Water Salmonid species, Brown Trout (Salmo trutta fario), in the Hatcheries of Kashmir Himalayas','Asim Iqbal Bazaz, Tasaduq H. Shah, Irfan Ahmad, Farooz A. Bhat, Adnan Abubakr Bilal A. Bhat, Rizwana Malik, Syed Talia Mushtaq and Nafhat-Ul-Arab','98 Influence of Thermal Shock Intensity on the Early Developmental Stages of Eggs in Cold Water Asim Iqbal Bazaz.pdf','',1,'Brown trout (Salmo trutta fario) is an important fish species for recreational fishing because of\r\nits aquaculture potential, economic worth, and widespread consumer demand. In aquaculture, the primary\r\nfocus in thermal induced triploidization is the production of sterile fish which prevent negative effects on\r\ngrowth and survival related to the gonadal maturation. The present study was conducted in government trout\r\nfarm Laribal, Srinagar to observe effects of various heat shock treatments on the fertilization and hatching\r\nrates of eggs in brown trout (S. trutta fario). Four heat shock treatments and a control group in three\r\nreplicates were observed. The highest fertilization rate among the treatment groups was observed in group\r\nT2 (26Â°C, 20 minutes after fertilization) with 87.55Â±0.54%. There was a significant difference (P<0.05)\r\nbetween the treatment groups and control group. It was found that the fertilization rate was higher in control\r\ngroup (92.32Â±0.51%) as compared to tr','Salmo trutta fario), Heat shock, Eggs, Fertilization, Hatching.','The present study revealed that the heat shock treatment\r\nhad a significant influence on the development of eggs\r\nin brown trout. Fertilization and hatching rates were\r\nobserved to be significantly higher in control groups\r\ncompared to the treatment groups. Furthermore, it was\r\nobserved that increasing the intensity of the heat shock\r\nlowered the fertilization and hatching rates. However,\r\nthe fertilization and hatching percentage continued to\r\nrise when the duration of shock initiation after\r\nfertilization was increased.','-','Bazaz, A.I., Shah, T.H., Ahmad, I., Bhat, F.A., Abubakr, A., Bhat, B.A., Malik, R., Mushtaq, S.T. and\r\nNafhat-Ul-Arab (2021). Influence of Thermal Shock intensity on the Early Developmental Stages of Eggs in Cold Water\r\nSalmonid species, Brown Trout (Salm'),(3098,'102','Effect of Hygroscopic Solution (Glycerine, Sorbitol and Sodium chloride) on Drying and Preservation of Different Ornamental Foliage','Pooja Bhardwaj, Samir Ebson Topno, Vijay Bahadur and V.M. Prasad','99 Effect of Hygroscopic Solution _Glycerine, Sorbitol and Sodium chloride_ on Drying and Preservation of Different Ornamental Foliage Pooja Bhardwaj.pdf','',1,'The aim of present study is to assess the â€œEffect of Hygroscopic Solution on Drying and Preservation of different ornamental foliageâ€ was carried out at Postharvest laboratory of Department of Horticulture, Sam Higginbottom University of Agriculture, Technology and sciences, Prayagraj (U.P.). The two methods were applied in the experiment i.e. Uptake method and Full dip method. In Uptake Method, the leaves were harvested from the plants at matured stage and cut end of leaf or leaf was dipped in hygroscopic Solution and in full dip method. The leaves are fully dipped in Solutions. According to present finding the best results were obtained in Uptake method and the best concentration was 20% of glycerine for drying of ornamentals cut foliage. As the dried leaves and flowers are extensively used for decoration in marriages, pandals, temples. This study shows the importance of cut foliage in preparing various dry flower products such as dry flower arrangements, bouquets etc.','Glycerine, sorbitol, sodium chloride, foliage, preservation','Based on the present finding it is concluded that uptake method is better as compared to full dip method and 20% is the optimum concentration of glycerine for drying of different ornamental cut foliage. Hence we can make more amendments in this experiment','-','Bhardwaj, P., Topno, S.E., Bahadur, V. and Prasad, V.M. (2021). Effect of Hygroscopic Solution (Glycerine, Sorbitol and Sodium chloride) on Drying and Preservation of Different Ornamental Foliage. Biological Forum â€“ An International Journal, 13(3): 580'),(3099,'102','Occurrence and Distribution of Sesame Alternaria Blight under Environmental Conditions of Transitional Plain of Luni Basin of Rajasthan','Jitendar Kumar Sharma, H.V.S. Shekhawat, Prakash Chand Yadav, Pravin R. Patil and Jagdish Prasad Bishnoi','100 Occurrence and Distribution of Sesame Alternaria Blight under Environmental Conditions of Transitional Plain of Luni Basin of Rajasthan Jitendar Kumar Sharma.pdf','',1,'Sesame (Sesamum indicum L.), is an ancient important oilseed crop belonging to the family Pedaliaceae and native of India. Alternaria blight of sesame is widespread and have continued to be the major constraints in the production and productivity of sesame all over the country in mostly in the state of Rajasthan particularly. Looking to the economic importance of the disease and very meagre information available related to disease in Rajasthan, the present plant pathological studies were undertaken to generate the information on important various aspects of disease. To find out the status sesame Alternaria blight a rapid roving survey was conducted to record sesame Alternaria blight disease intensity during two Kharif seasons (2019 and 2020), covering 100 sesame crop fields of 20 villages in Pali region under transitional plain of Luni Basin (ZoneIIb) of Rajasthan, India. Alternaria blight disease appeared in all the surveyed areas of Pali regions from initiation of flowering stage to','Alternaria blight, survey, disease intensity and sesame.','From the study it is clearly evident that during the survey, occurrence of sesame Alternaria blight disease was observed in serious proportion, inflicting heavy losses in different areas of Pali region under transitional plain of Luni Basin (ZoneIIb) of Rajasthan, India Considering the seriousness of the disease, the present investigation was carried out on disease intensity related information on this important pathological problem and to develop suitable management strategies to prevent the crop losses.\r\nAlternaria blight disease intensity was ranging from 0.00 to 31.11 per cent with an average of 09.43 per cent in during 2019. While, during 2020 the average per cent disease intensity was 38.33, with ranging from 12.22 to 64.44 per cent. The maximum disease incidence was observed at Sonai Manji (31.11%) during 2019. Whereas, during 2020 Nayagaon recorded maximum per cent disease intensity (64.44%). Overall, our study provides evidence on the status of alternaria blight severity wit','-','Sharma, J.K., Shekhawat, H.V.S., Yadav, P.C., Patil, P.R. and Bishnoi, J.P. (2021). Occurrence and Distribution of Sesame Alternaria Blight under Environmental Conditions of Transitional Plain of Luni Basin of Rajasthan. Biological Forum â€“ An Internatio'),(3100,'102','Characterization and Evaluation of some Genotypes of Lathyrus sps. in Terai Region of West Bengal','R. Barai, S. Chakraborty, A. Sarkar, R. Mandal, M. Chakraborty, M.K. Debnath and A. Kundu','101 Characterization and Evaluation of some Genotypes of lathyrus sps. in Terai Region of West Bengal S. Chakraborty.pdf','',1,'An investigation was carried out in the university farm for 10 genotypes of lathyrus species to find out the best genotypes(s) which may be grown in this terai region of West Bengal. Characterization and evaluation genotypes were done according to DUS descriptors developed by International Plant Genetic Resources Institute, Rome, Italy (IPGRI 2000). From the statistical analysis by CRBD, the results of genotypes like BK-7-1 was found to have maximum plant height, leaf length, pods per plant, pod length, seeds per pod, yield per plant, biological yield per plant, and biological yield per plot. WBK-10, BK-2, BK-27-1, BK-7-1 yield per plot, and high seed index were found in WBK-10, Bidhan-2, BK-2 along with BK-7-1. Seeds per plant were found highest in WBK-10. In seeds per pod, maximum was found in BK-27-1. Pods per plant were also found highest in BK-7-1. Challenges of the study is indeterminate habit of the plant where collection of data should be very carefully done starting from first','DUS descriptors, CRBD, Seed index, Plant height, Seed per pod, seeds per plant, Genotype, Terai region.','BK-7-1 was found to have maximum plant height, leaf length, pods per plant, pod length, seeds per pod, yield per plant, biological yield per plant, and biological yield per plot followed by WBK-10, BK-2, and Bidhan-2, BK-27-1 where they performed good in biological yield per plot. WBK-10, BK-2, BK-27-1, BK-7-1 yield per plot, and high seed index were found in WBK-10, Bidhan-2, BK-2 along with BK-7-1. Seeds per plant were found highest in WBK-10 followed by BK-7-1, Berhampur local and BK-2. In seeds per pod, maximum was found in BK-27-1 followed by Bidhan-1, BK-2, Kaikhali local, and Berhampur Local. Pods per plant was found highest in BK-7-1 followed by WBK-10, BK-2, and Berhampur Local were found in yield-related characters along with biological yield. So, BK-7-1 is the best genotype, followed by BK-2, BK-27-1, WBK-10, Bidhan-2, Kaikhali local and Berhampur Local can be selected considering all the yield attributes of this investigation.','-','Barai, R., Chakraborty, S., Sarkar, A., Mandal, R., Chakraborty, M., Debnath, M.K. and Kundu, A. (2021). Characterization and Evaluation of some Genotypes of lathyrus sps. in Terai Region of West Bengal. Biological Forum â€“ An International Journal, 13(3'),(3101,'102','Effect of IBA and NAA with or without GA3 treatment on Rooting Attributes of Hard Wood Stem Cuttings of Pomegranate (Punica granatum L.)','Aneeta Chaudhary and J.P. Singh','102 Effect of IBA and NAA with or without GA3 treatment on Rooting Attributes of Hard Wood Stem Cuttings of Pomegranate _Punica granatum L._ Aneeta Chaudhary.pdf','',1,'Pomegranate regarded as fruit of paradise which commercially propagated by hard wood stem cuttings but the method is not yet standardized as the plant raised are weaker due to shorter and lesser number of roots resulting in poor survival. Therefore, an experiment was planned at the Garden of Department of Fruit Science, Chandra Shekhar Azad University of Agriculture and Technology Kanpur (U.P.). The experiment conducted in the two consecutive years of 2019-20 and 2020-21. Four levels each of NAA and IBA i.e. 3000, 4000, 5000, and 6000 ppm with and without GA3 2000 ppm along with a control (Water Spray) were taken. Thus there were 18 treatments all tried in Randomized Block Design replicating thrice pooled analysis of the data recorded that treatment IBA 4000 ppm + GA3 2000 ppm significantly maximized percentage of rooted cuttings (82.83%), number of primary roots per cutting (44.37), length of longest root (16.37cm), diameter of root (2.49 mm), fresh weight of roots (385.33 mg) and dr','IBA, NAA, GA3 root initiation, Primary roots and Dry and Fresh weight of roots. ','In view of the above achievement it is concluded that the treatment of IBA 4000 ppm + GA3 2000 ppm proved most effective enhancing rooting of cuttings, number of primary roots, length of longest root, diameter of root and fresh and dry weight of roots. Further investigation should be planned with the present treatments to observe the health and survival of cuttings as these parameters and closely related with the rooting performance.','-','Chaudhary, A. and Singh, J.P. (2021). Effect of IBA and NAA with or without GA3 treatment on Rooting Attributes of Hard Wood Stem Cuttings of Pomegranate (Punica granatum L.). Biological Forum â€“ An International Journal, 13(3): 596-600.'),(3102,'102','Evaluation of Metarhizium (Nomuraea) rileyi Rice Bran Oil Formulations against 3rd instar Spodoptera litura under Laboratory','Y. Peeru Saheb, K. Manjula, K. Devaki, R. Sarada Jayalakshmi Devi,\r\nB. Ravindra Reddy and Archana Anokhe','103 Evaluation of Metarhizium _Nomuraea_ rileyi Rice Bran Oil Formulations against 3rd instar Spodoptera litura under Laboratory Y. Peeru Saheb.pdf','',1,'Formulation of biological control agent is an important criterion for sustainable agriculture. Formulation can improve the product stability and viability may result in consistency of field performance of many potential biological control agents. Formulation of biocontrol products has been used against insect pests (bioinsecticides), diseases (biofungicides) and weeds (bioherbicides). Many of the biocontrol agents have been formulated with dried milk, powdered casein, gelatin, saponins, oils, soaps, etc. So far as microbial insecticides are concerned, it is essential that the compound used should not inhibit the successful establishment of the pathogens. Oil based formulation of M. rileyi reduced the pest populations distinctly than other formulations. Ten types of rice bran oil formulations of Metarhizium (Nomuraea) rileyi were prepared by using 5 wetting agents at two different concentrations each. The ten formulations along with an untreated control were evaluated against third in','Metarhizium (Nomuraea) rileyi, rice bran oil formulations, third instar, Spodoptera litura, laboratory','Development of dry and oil formulations of M. rileyi isolates, combination of different microbial agents and field evaluation against pest complex in crops like groundnut, blackgram and maize. Evaluation of nanomaterial based formulations of M. rileyi against insects. To conduct compatibility studies with novel pesticides under field conditions. To study the efficacy of M. rileyi against insect pests under storage. Development of safety tests data of M. rileyi and documentation, submission for registration as biopesticide.','-','Saheb, Y.P., Manjula, K.K., Devaki, Devi, R.S.J., Reddy, B.R. and Anokhe, A. (2021). Evaluation of Metarhizium (Nomuraea) rileyi Rice Bran Oil Formulations against 3rd instar Spodoptera litura under Laboratory. Biological Forum â€“ An International Journa'),(3103,'102','A Study on Foliar Feeding of GA3 and NAA on Fruit Drop, Retention, Yield and Quality of Ber Fruit (Ziziphus mauritiana Lamk.) cv. â€œBanarasi Karakaâ€','Swatantra Yadav, J.P. Singh, Shubham Gupta and Jitendra Singh Yadav','104 A Study on Foliar Feeding of GA3 and NAA on Fruit Drop Retention Yield and Quality of Ber Fruit Ziziphus mauritiana Lamk. cv. Banarasi Karaka Swatantra Yadav.pdf','',1,'A study on foliar feeding of GA3 and NAA on fruit drop, retention, yield and quality of ber fruit (Ziziphus mauritiana Lamk.) cv. â€œBanarasi Karakaâ€. The investigation was conducted at Horticulture Garden CSA University of Agriculture and Technology, Kanpur during the year 2020-21 on ber fruit. Results revealed that the sprays of 30 ppm significantly maximized (161.75) fruit set against control N0 (159.50). 30 ppm GA3 significantly maximized (163.50) fruit set against control G0 (157.25). The minimum 90.09 % fruit drop was shown under 40 ppm NAA over control N0 (91.95 %) 30 ppm GA3 significantly minimized 89.75% fruit drop against control G0 (92.97%). Interactive treatment N2G2 significantly produced lesser (89.19 %) fruit drop against control N0G0 (95.02 %). NAA 40 ppm revealed maximum of 15.97 % fruit retention over control N0 (12.87 %). GA3 30 ppm maximized 16.76% fruit retention over control G0 (10.93%) interactive treatment N2G2 significantly maximized (17.84 %) fruit retentio','Ber, NAA, GA3, yield, TSS, Ascorbic acid and Total sugar','On the basis of results, plant growth regulators NAA and GA3 used as a tool in improving the performance of ber cv. â€˜Banarsi karakaâ€™ fruits with respect to fruiting parameter, yield and quality attributes in the present investigation. The results concluded that NAA 30 ppm maximized fruit set, yield and total sugar and it was exhibited prominent as second effective treatment in\r\nfruit retention, TSS and ascorbic acid content. NAA 20 ppm and 40 ppm maximized less parameter in comparison of NAA 30 ppm considerably. Similarly, GA3 40 ppm promoted significantly maximum yield and ascorbic acid and also enhanced fruit set, fruit retention and yield while lesser fruit drop was seen. The effectiveness of GA3 20 and 30 ppm exhibited positive but did not expressed superimpose to GA3 40 ppm treatment. So, on the conclusion of present investigation it is advice to the concerning peoples, orchardist and farmers of central U.P. for spraying of NAA 30 ppm and GA3 40 ppm at the time of pre bloomin','-','Yadav, S., Singh, J.P., Gupta, S., and Yadav, J.S. (2021). A Study on Foliar Feeding of GA3 and NAA on Fruit Drop, Retention, Yield and Quality of Ber Fruit (Ziziphus mauritiana Lamk.) cv. â€œBanarasi Karakaâ€. Biological Forum â€“ An International Jour'),(3107,'104','Gongylus gongylodes (Linnaeus) (Insecta: Mantodea): a new record for Tamilnadu State, India','Selvaraj Selvamurugan','3_JNBR_10_2__2021.pdf','',1,'','','','',''),(3108,'100','Mapping Fruit Crops Diversity in Bilaspur District using Geo Spatial Techniques','Vikas Kumar Sharma, Himanshu Mehta, Som Dev Sharma and R.S. Rana','103 Mapping Fruit Crops Diversity in Bilaspur District using Geo Spatial Techniques Vikas Kumar Sharma.pdf','',1,'A GIS based study was undertaken in Bilaspur district of Himachal Pradesh (India) utilizing the collateral data on geographic boundaries at different administrative levels besides the settlements, drainage/rivers etc. The area and production data of different fruits in that area were also integrated in the analysis. The DEM (Digital Elevation Model) was prepared using SRTM (Shuttle Radar Topographic Mission) data of the NASA downloaded from earth explorer browser. Satellite imageries in digital format were procured from NRSC Hyderabad. The IRS P6 LISS IV was the basic satellite data with spatial resolution 5.8m were used in this study. In general, the crop specific spectral signatures were recorded during the maximum vegetative cover stage. Ground truth data were collected to determine the spectral signatures acquiring information on condition and geographic coordinates of orchards location using GPS. Software ArcGIS 10.5.1 and ERDAS imagine were used for data analysis and interpretati','Fruits, GIS, Digital Elevation Model, spectral signature, supervised classification, NDVI.','The present study was conducted to explore the potential and advantages of geospatial technology for mapping of fruit crop diversity and change in cropping pattern. The generated data maps will be valuable for researchers and administrators to simplify the process of decision making, orchard planning and evaluation process in more scientific and logical manner. This methodology applies to delineate homogeneous planting patches and shows limited usefulness especially for heterogeneous patches, younger plantations and identification of plantations under agro-horticultural systems and multi-cropped regions.\r\nHowever, further research is necessary for the identification of small patches, multi-cropped regions and assessing the local characteristics of soil moisture if maximum benefits are to be acquired. To better manage existing crops, systematic planning and decision-making requires an updated and accurate database. The use of geospatial technology has becoming important today for the ge','-','Sharma, V.K., Mehta, H., Sharma, S.D. and Rana, R.S. (2021). Mapping Fruit Crops Diversity in Bilaspur District using Geo Spatial Techniques. Biological Forum â€“ An International Journal, 13(2): 711-715.'),(3109,'100','Studies on Different Varietal Evaluation of Jamun (Syzygium cumini L. Skeels) for Establishment under Prayagraj Agro Climatic Condition','Shubham Jain, Saket Mishra and Vijay Bahadur','104 Studies on Different Varietal Evaluation of Jamun _Syzygium cumini L. Skeels_ for Establishment under Prayagraj Agro Climatic Condition Shubham Jain.pdf','',1,'The present experiment was carried out during 2020 in Central horticulture research farm of Department of Horticulture, SHUATS, Prayagraj. The experiment was conducted in Randomized Block Design with 7 Variety (treatment) replicated thrice. The treatments were V1 Narendra-Jamun-6, V2 Ra-Jamun, V3 Rajendra Jamun-1, V4 Jamrul, V5 Bahadoli, V6 Farida, V7 Goma Priyanka From the present investigation. It is found that V2 Ra-Jamun was found superior in terms of Plant height, Plant spread, number of leaves, plant girth, number of branches per plant, plant spread (E-W and N-S), leaf area and chlorophyll content. The research conducted will help the farmers to select superior Variety of Jamun under Prayagraj agro climatic condition','Syzygium cumini L. Skeels, Jamun, varieties, growth, establishment.','From the present investigation it may be concluded that Jamun V2 Ra-Jamum resulted in highest survival percentage and vegetative growth parameters like plant height (cm), number of leaves plant-1, number of branches plant-1, stem diameter (cm), plant spread (cm) (e-w), plant spread (cm) (n-s), leaf area (cm2) and chlorophyll content (spad). All the varieties were significantly superior in their survival percentage and vegetative growth parameters over V7 Goma Priyanka. Since this is based on one season trail therefore, further evaluation trails are needed to substantiates the findings. Further research on varietal evaluation of the 7 jamun variety should be carried out for more relevant findings about these 7 varieties of Jamun.','-','Jain, S., Mishra, S. and Bahadur, V. (2021). Studies on Different Varietal Evaluation of Jamun (Syzygium cumini L. Skeels) for Establishment under Prayagraj Agro Climatic Condition. Biological Forum â€“ An International Journal, 13(2): 716-719.'),(3110,'102','Assessment of Late Blight Resistant Tomato Hybrid Arka Abhed','Prasanna Lakshmi Ravuri, Sahaja Deva and M. Reddi Kumar','105 Assessment of Late Blight Resistant Tomato Hybrid Arka Abhed Prasanna lakshmi Ravuri.pdf','',1,'Tomato is the major vegetable crop grown in Chittoor District of Andhra Pradesh. Biotic stresses like late blight, early blight, Tuta absoluta causing severe yield losses to the farmers. Late blight is the major problem in tomato from September to January months causing severe yield losses to the farmers. Local private hybrids are susceptible to the disease and farmers used to spray fungicides for 5-6 times to control the disease which resulted in increased cost of cultivation and sometimes fungicides spray is of no use. Hence, late blight disease resistant hybrid Arka Abhed was tested against Arka Samrat and private hybrid in KVK operational area. Data on disease incidence was collected at 30, 60, 90 DAP in all the hybrids. The data revealed that Arka abhed recorded significantly lower incidence of late blight than other hybrids during all crop growth stages. It recorded 2.6% late blight incidence whereas Arka Samrat and private hybrid recorded 46.6% and 50% of disease incidence. Numb','Tomato, late blight disease, resistant hybrid, Arka Abhed. ','Overall, Arka Abhed performed very well in farmers fields with good fruit quality, longer crop duration, high yield and maintained good late blight resistance under field conditions which are highly conducive to late blight development. If the problem of over size is rectified, the hybrid has very good scope to reach farming community. ','-','Ravuri, P.L., Deva, S. and Kumar, M.R. (2021). Assessment of Late Blight Resistant Tomato Hybrid Arka Abhed. Biological Forum â€“ An International Journal, 13(3): 613-616.'),(3111,'102','Leafhopper (Empoasca flavoscens Fabricius): A Major Pest of Castor Affecting Ericulture in Northeast India','Mahesh D.S.*, Arunkumar K.P., Amit Kumar, Aftab A. Shabnam, Reeta Luikham and K.M. Vijayakumari','106 Leafhopper _Empoasca flavoscens Fabricius_ A Major Pest of Castor Affecting Ericulture in Northeast India D S Mahesh.pdf','',1,'Castor (Ricinus communis) is one of the primary food plants of eri silkworm (Samia ricini D.). The leaves of castor are economically important for ericulture due to their feeding of domesticated eri silkworm. Hence, the quality parameters of the leaves directly influences eri silkworm rearing. There are several factors which directly affect the cocoon quality of erisilk worm viz., poor nutritional quality, dusted leaves, diseases infected leaves, pests infested leaves, etc. Among them, pest infested leaves significantly lower the yield and quality of castor leaves. Castor leafhopper, Empoasca flavoscens, is categorized under the seasonal sucking pest of castor (Mainly in winter and summer months). But, now a days this insect pest is becoming most devastating pest in Northeast India because of its behavior and incidence. Heavy infestation of leafhopper on castor impairs growth and reduces quality and number of leaves, which directly influences eri silkworm rearing. Till date, this pest ','flavoscen: Leafhopper (Empoasca s F.), Castor (Ricinus communis), Eri silkworm (Samia ricini D.)','Not much has been studied about leafhopper (Empoasca flavoscens) since it is considered as a seasonal pest in castor eco-system in Northeast India. The information on its taxonomy, distribution, life history, symptoms and recommended control measures discussed in this article is not sufficient to prepare an integrated pest management strategy for leafhopper. Therefore, in view of the importance of ericulture more studies should be conducted on pest population, yield loss assessment, quality of damaged leaves assessment, alternative hosts, cultural control measures, mechanical control measures, biological control measures and chemical control measures without affecting ericulture and environment. Such an effort will be definitely useful in the future to efficiently manage leafhopper from the castor ecosystem.','-','Mahesh, D.S., Arunkumar, K.P., Kumar, A., Shabnam, A.A., Luikham, R. and Vijayakumari, K.M. (2021). Leafhopper (Empoasca flavoscens Fabricius): A Major Pest of Castor Affecting Ericulture in Northeast India. Biological Forum â€“ An International Journal,'),(3112,'102','Arsenic in Food Web: An Alert for Public Health','Md. Hedayetullah* and Champak Kumar Kundu','107 Arsenic in Food Web An Alert for Public Health Md. Hedayetullah.pdf','',1,'Arsenic in groundwater and its contamination in food stuff are found severely in India. Groundwater resources are quite rich in both bank of river Ganges and a major part of the groundwater is arsenic contaminated and used for drinking, agricultural and industrial purposes. The concentration of arsenic (As) in groundwater exceeds the guideline concentration set internationally and nationally at 10 Î¼g L-1. Contaminated ground water is also used for irrigation and this makes it possible for arsenic to enter the human food chain through locally grown food, fodder, forage crops and vegetables. Some cases of arsenic also found in the poultry bird, cow, milk, fish and shellfish; ultimately As comes in food web and causes many health disorder. Rice and root vegetables absorb more amount of Arsenic and they act as a major source of exposure. Agricultural produces transport arsenic affected areas to non affected area resulting arsenic exposure in surroundings. This reviewed article discusses','Arsenic exposure, agricultural crops, foodstuffs, health effect.','The studies discussed in the review point to expand the problem of As in food, fodder, vegetables and its transportation from production areas to non-production areas or import zones. However, it must be observed that most of the available studies were conducted only for arsenic soil, water and foods. The present study emphasizes the distribution of As contaminated foods which is affects human health. Adoption of agronomic management in situ for crop production is to mitigate the arsenic load in food chain. Current focus of â€œNational As Policyâ€ and â€œImplementation Plan on providing safe foods and drinking water should be more emphasize. There have an ample scope of future research of arsenic in food web and its adverse effect in human health.','-','Md. Hedayetullah and Kundu, C. K. (2021). Arsenic in Food Web: An Alert for Public Health. Biological Forum â€“ An International Journal, 13(3): 621-624'),(3113,'102','Dietary Supplementation of Phytobiotics on Production Performance of Nandanam Chicken-3','K. Sangilimadan*, R. Richard Churchil, K. Premavalli and A.V. Omprakash','108 Dietary Supplementation of Phytobiotics on Production Performance of Nandanam Chicken-3 -K. Sangilimadan.pdf','',1,'The improved meat purpose chicken varieties with fast growing abilities have been developed for rural poultry farming in India. The need for discontinuing antibiotic growth promoters has led to the search for herbal alternatives in poultry production. The dietary supplementation of phytobiotics on production performance of Nandanambroiler 3, is a synthetic cross for meat purpose was studied. One hundred and twenty, straight run one day old Nandanam chicks 3 (n=120) were allotted into four treatment of 30 chicks in three equal replicates. A common control diet was formulated for starting and finishing periods. The four dietary treatments were control (T1), control with 0.5% ginger paste (T2), control with 0.5% garlic paste (T3) and control with 0.5% turmeric powder (T4). The data on body weight, feed consumption and mortality were recorded biweekly; from which, weight gain and feed efficiency were calculated. The mean body weight at eighth week was significantly (P<0.01) higher in garli','Body weight, Feed intake, Livability, Phytobiotic, Return over feed cost.','It can be concluded from this study that body weight, body weight gain and FCR can be improved in synthetic colour broiler strains by the supplementation of garlic and ginger at the rate of 0.5% in the feed. Better Return over Feed Cost (Rs/bird) and Return over feed cost (Rs./kg live weight) can also be achieved with the supplementation of above two herbal products; whereas, inclusion of ginger and turmeric can improvelivability. Therefore, for better production performance in meat type chicken, supplementation of garlic or ginger paste at 50g/100 kg feed is recommended','-','Sangilimadan, K., Churchil, R.R., Premavalli, K. and Omprakash, A.V. (2021). Dietary Supplementation of Phytobiotics on Production Performance of Nandanam Chicken-3. Biological Forum â€“ An International Journal, 13(3): 625-630.'),(3114,'102','Impact of Geospatial conditions and Time of Panicle Emergence on the Postharvest Defects and Qualities of Mango var. Alphonso','Prathiksha*, Krishna, H.C., Vasudeva, K.R., Ramegowda, G.K., Hanumantharaya, B.G., Bhuvaneswari, S., Anil Kumar, S. and Rakshitha, R.S.','109 Impact of Geospatial conditions and Time of Panicle Emergence on the Postharvest Defects and Qualities of Mango var. Alphonso Prathiksha.pdf','',1,'Mango varieties are susceptible to different postharvest defects like spongy tissue, anthracnose, fruit fly and stem end rot and their intensity depends on growing conditions and locations. Limited information is available on the influence of locations on these defects. In this study, different geospatial parameters viz. altitude, temperature, rainfall, humidity, soil nutrients were analyzed to assess their impact on the quality and postharvest defects in mango var. Alphonso. Panicles were tagged thrice with an interval of 10 days at different locations viz. Bengaluru, Chikkaballapura, Hogalgere and Ramanagara (about 228km distant from each other). Mangoes were harvested and quality was analyzed. Results revealed that, fruits from Hogalgere were free from fruit flies but had highest incidence of spongy tissue (20.9%). The fruits from Chikkaballapura had highest fruit fly infestation (30%). Anthracnose infection was highest in fruits from Bengaluru (11.9%). Stem end rot was highest in f','Altitude, geospatial, mango quality, postharvest defects, respiration','All the postharvest defects and quality attributes have deep connection with geospatial conditions and time of harvest, hence location specific pre and postharvest practices is inevitable. Postharvest defects stem end rot and anthracnose occurred in all the locations whereas, fruit flies and spongy tissue was location specific. Harvesting at optimum maturity maintains the qualities and the fruits harvested from early emerged panicles had fewer incidences of defects than the subsequent ones. Postharvest management of fresh mangoes is a challenging, however, understanding geospatial condition and its intricate correlation details may aid in maintaining the postharvest quality and extending the shelf life of mangoes. Long term assessment of heat units required in different locations may be calculated to aid in staggered harvesting in different locations to avoid the postharvest defects and ultimately preserving the post harvest quality and shelf life.','-','Prathiksha, Krishna, H.C., Vasudeva, K.R., Ramegowda, G.K., Hanumantharaya, B.G., Bhuvaneswari, S., Anil Kumar, S. and Rakshitha, R.S. (2021). Impact of Geospatial conditions and Time of Panicle Emergence on the Postharvest Defects and Qualities of Mango '),(3115,'102','Effect of Rice Bran and Soybean Flour on the Growth and Yield of White Oyster Mushroom [Pleurotus florida (Mont.) Singer]','Sunayana Deb*, Sobita Simon and Abhilasha A. Lal','110 Effect of Rice Bran and Soybean Flour on the Growth and Yield of White Oyster Mushroom [Pleurotus florida _Mont._ Singer] Sunayana Deb.pdf','',1,'Among the various mushrooms widely found in India, Pleurotus florida is gaining its popularity due to its vigorous growing and aggressive nature. This creamy white colored mushroom is popularly known as â€˜White oyster mushroomâ€™. The addition of the supplements with basal substrate has been a common practice for optimization of the C:N ratio, enhance the yield, nutritional and medicinal values. The present investigation was carried out to find the best supplement combination for the cultivation of Pleurotus florida. Two supplements namely rice bran and soybean flour in different composition were mixed with the wheat straw to enhance the mushroom yield. Spawning was done @ 3% wet weight of wheat straw. The results of the present investigation revealed that supplemental combination (20% rice bran + 5% soybean flour) used in T4 recorded significantly less time for spawn run (10.66 days), pinhead initiation (12.66 days), formation of the mature fruiting body (14.83 days). Supplementation','Pleurotus florida, rice bran, soybean flour.','As per the results obtained from this study, the combination of the supplements with wheat straw in T4 (20% rice bran + 5% soybean flour) took significantly less time for complete spawn run, early primordial initiation and early maturity of the fruiting body. The significantly highest average width of pileus (cm) and stipe length (cm) were also recorded in T4 (20% rice bran + 5% soybean flour). The significantly maximum number of fruiting bodies was also obtained in this treatment combination (20% rice bran + 5% soybean flour). Among the treatment combinations, T4 (20% rice bran + 5% soybean flour) recorded significantly higher yield in all three flushes and biological efficiency. Therefore, it is concluded that substrate mixture in T4 (20% rice bran + 5% soybean flour) is the most suitable combination in terms of increasing growth and yield of white oyster mushroom as compared with control (without supplements). The results of the present study are of one cropping season (January 2021','-','Deb, S., Simon, S. and Lal, A.A. (2021). Effect of Rice Bran and Soybean Flour on the Growth and Yield of White Oyster Mushroom [Pleurotus florida (Mont.) Singer]. Biological Forum â€“ An International Journal, 13(3): 637-642.'),(3117,'102','Multiple Facets of Edible Insect Utility as Nutrient Power Pack and Economic Empower Bank',' T. Shantibala*, Tantulung Tatan, Mohd Talha Ansari, N. Surmina Devi and Gusheinzed Waikhom','111 Multiple Facets of Edible Insect Utility as Nutrient Power Pack and Economic Empower Bank T. Shantibala.pdf','',1,'Entomophagy offers dietary foods of less environmental effort, support livelihood and plays an important ecological role in nature. These in-exhaustible supports are less recognized and treated as primitive behavior. Edible insects as the nutrient power pack (NPP), represent a significant biological resource comprising of complete nutritional package. Showing concern of entomophagy in FAO and western countries, many business sectors begins the momentum of launching value-added food for consumption purposes and gained the opportunity of being the economic power bank (EPB). An increase in 10% production of animals protein supply in the world through edible insect mass production could reduce the malnutrition problem and pressure on other conventional protein sources. Significant associations of edible insects with human advancement are presented in two forms; NPP and EPB. Development and utilization of value-added products of edible insects in the form of Protein concentrate powder as a ','Entomophagy, Economic power bank, Insect resources, Nutrient power pack','The emerging health benefits and documentation of indigenous foods as described in the above paragraphs are the need of the hour for strategic community-based interventions so that it would help to improve food security, nutrition, and health of populations as a whole. The more effective use of such diversity can also serve to be a more sustainable and environmentally friendly solution to the problems of food production. Further, documentation of the nutritional values of insects to promote insects more efficiently as a healthy food source is needful. Utilization of value added products of edible insects in the form of Protein concentrate powder as a nutrient supplement will be a good scope for future promotion. The development of a clear and comprehensive legal framework at the international or national level could pave the way for more investment, leading towards the full development from the household scale to the industrial scale of production as well as trade-in insect products fo','-','Shantibala, T. , Tatan, T., Ansari, M.T., Devi, N.S. and Waikhom, G. (2021). Multiple Facets of Edible Insect Utility as Nutrient Power Pack and Economic Empower Bank. Biological Forum â€“ An International Journal, 13(3): 643-647.'),(3118,'102','Multiple Regression Analysis for Prediction of Powdery Mildew in Mango (Mangifera indica L.)','Mamta*, K.P. Singh and Sharad Pandey','112 Multiple Regression Analysis for Prediction of Powdery Mildew in Mango _Mangifera indica L._ Mamta.pdf','',1,'Mango (Mangifera indica L.) is one of the highly demanded fruit in India. However, the crop is vulnerable to numerous diseases at all stages of its development. Among these diseases, powdery mildew caused by Oidium mangiferae is one of the most serious and widespread disease. The purpose of this study was to investigate multiple regression analysis for prediction of powdery mildew in mango. The experiment was conducted on 15 years old plants of twenty cultivars of mango namely Pantsinduri, Dashehari, Amarpalli, Neelum, Hathijhul, Rasgulla, Redtotapari, Langra, Nashpati, Ramkela, Gaurjeet, Golajafrani, Gulabkhas, Gorakhpurlangra, Kalahafus, Karela, Tamancha, Barahmasi, Husnara and Chausa in 2013 and 2014 at Horticulture Research Station (H.R.C.) of G. B. Pant University of Agriculture and Technology, Pantnagar, Distt. Udham Singh Nagar, Uttarakhand. Prevailing weather variables such as temperature, relative humidity and rainfall were obtained corresponding to the mango seasons for both','Mango, powdery mildew, coefficient of multiple determinations R2, Prediction.','The research is very useful for the Mango growers to control powdery mildew of Mango caused by Odium mangiferae. Very little work has been conducted on powdery mildew of Mango. Based on the results obtained in this study one can conclude that the multiple regression analysis for prediction of powdery mildew disease in mango, performed better. The reason for better performance of multiple regression models may be due to consideration of various weather variables. The coefficient of multiple determinations (R2) value of twenty cultivars showed that variation of disease incidence in the development of disease is up to 94% (maximum) in Nashpati and Minimum in Pantsinduri (84%). ','-','Mamta, Singh, K.P. and Pandey, S. (2021). Multiple Regression Analysis for Prediction of Powdery Mildew in Mango (Mangifera indica L.). Biological Forum â€“ An International Journal, 13(3): 648-651.'),(3119,'102','Studies on Effect of Growing Environments and Storage Conditions on Assessment of Pollen Viability using Different Staining Techniques in Tomato','Jorrigal Laxman, Shiv K. Yadav*, Ravish Choudhary, Sangita Yadav, Zakir Hussian, P.K. Singh, Sushil Pandey and Sunil Archak','113 Studies on Effect of Growing Environments and Storage Conditions on Assessment of Pollen Viability using Different Staining Techniques in Tomato Jorrigal Laxman.pdf','',1,'The main objective of tomato pollen storage is to preserve the genetic material for future use, to maintain their germination, vigour and genetic integrity under optimal conditions. Major challenge faced by tomato breeding program to develop new hybrids is time consuming and difficult hand emasculation and pollination for out-crossing occurs. This is because of the cleistogamous nature of flowers wherein, no cross-pollination occurs. Another challenge is of less pollen availability in tomato flowers during pollination. Multiple planting and staggered sowing can evade this constraint to some level but it is labour, time, and space intensive. Thus, accessibility of stored viable pollen for the breeding program can be of great help as it enables the easy exchange of genetic material between the researchers due to fewer stringent restrictions on the transportation. In the present study, viability of pollen produced in different growing environments and stored in variable conditions were a','Cleistogamous, environmental conditions, iodine potassium iodide, pollen viability, room temperature, storage conditions, tetrazolium, tomato, PFS= percent fruit set ','This is the first report on the tomato pollen collected from different environments followed by its storage at different storage conditions and evaluation of pollen viability. The results revealed that the pollen viability percentage is more in the polyhouse than the net house and open field conditions. Furthermore refrigerated (4Â°C) condition is more preferable storage strategy for effective preservation of nuclear genetic diversity and for pollination in the hybridization programme. Among the different staining techniques acetocarmine is more reliable and preferable than other two staining methods. These results will help the breeders to plan hybridization programme in tomato crop and further studies can be done on pollen viability using different staining techniques like FDA, in vitro germination across environments. Identifying heat stress tolerance\r\nmale lines producing and maintaining viability of pollens for commercial hybrid seed production for open field conditions a','-','Laxman, J., Yadav, S.K., Choudhary, R., Yadav, S., Hussian, Z., Singh, P.K., Pandey, S. and Archak, S. (2021). Studies on Effect of Growing Environments and Storage Conditions on Assessment of Pollen Viability using Different Staining Techniques in Tomato'),(3120,'100','Effect of Spinetoram 11.7 SC and some Newer Chemicals against Spodoptera litura (F.) on Soybean','Navya Matcha*, P. Duraimurugan and A.K. Bhowmick','105 Effect of Spinetoram 11.7 SC and some Newer Chemicals against Spodoptera litura _F._ on Soybean Navya Matcha.pdf','',1,'Soybean is a wonder crop with innumerable uses in various industries as it is contributing 20% edible oil and 40% protein. However, management using chemicals is one of the mainstream steps taken in keeping defoliators below ETL. The usage of selective or newer insecticides show a reduced impact on beneficial insects. In the present situation, the experiment was conducted in farmer field in Nizamabad district in Kharif season during the years 2019 and 2020. The effect of spinetoram 11.7 SC and different newer insecticide molecules and were evaluated against Spodoptera litura and their effect on natural enemies under field conditions along with the effect on yield of crop. The insecticides viz., Spinetoram 11.7 SC, Flubendiamide 480 SC, Chlorantraniliprole 18.5 SC, 5 SG, Spinosad 45 SC and Thiodicarb 75 WP were used. The observations on no. of larvae per meter row length and natural enemy population was taken. The results showed that spinetoram 11.7 SC when applied at both 0.7ml/l and a','insecticides, Spodoptera litura, assassin bug, spider, coccinellid, spinetoram, flubendiamide, chlorantraniliprole.','In the current scenario of pest management strategies, the development of resistance to the insecticides has become the biggest challenge. Therefore, the need for implementing the usage of newer insecticide molecules for effective control is the need of the hour. As, newer molecules differ with their mode of action could be a promising option to handle the situation. The new molecule spinetoram 11.7 SC was found to be most toxic and effective in managing the pest, alongside of this flubendiamide 39.35 SC and chlorantraniliprole 18.5 SC were found to be conserving natural enemy populations. The susceptibility of Spodoptera litura to these chemicals on various crops has not been found. Thereby, time to time monitoring of the susceptibility status of these newer molecules at field level need to be examined regularly. As, farmers depend upon newer insecticides than conventional management options under the current farming scenario','-','Matcha, N., Duraimurugan, P. and Bhowmick, A.K. (2021). Effect of Spinetoram 11.7 SC and some Newer Chemicals against Spodoptera litura (F.) on Soybean. Biological Forum â€“ An International Journal, 13(2): 720-724.'),(3121,'105','Evaluation of Different Culture Media on the Growth, Sporulation and Mycelial Dry Weight of Alternaria solani causing Early Blight in Tomato','Ambarish K.V.*, Patil M.B., Amaresh Y.S., Pramesh D., Patil M.G. and Sreenivas, A.G.','1 Evaluation of Different Culture Media on the Growth, Sporulation and Mycelial Dry Weight of Alternaria solani causing Early Blight in Tomato K. V. Ambarish 1346.pdf','',1,'Early blight caused by Alternaria solani is the most prevalent and destructive disease in tomato. Any study leading to an understanding of the host-pathogen connection must have a critical and complete grasp of dietary patterns and factors driving fungal growth. The pathogen\'s culture and growth media conditions have not received significant attention. Hence, 17 solid culture media (synthetic and non synthetic media) were tested to assess their influence on cultural characters of A. solani, and the results showed that mean colony diameter (9 cm) was significantly highest on Richard\'s agar medium, PDA and host based media at 12 DAI. The least growth of 1.72 cm was noticed in PDA+ CaCO3, followed by water agar (4.95 cm) and V8 juice agar (5.00 cm). A medium mycelial growth range of 6.45 to 8.80 cm was noticed in the rest of tested culture media. On examination of data on sporulation of A. solani, water agar showed excellent sporulation with 56.67 spores per microscopic field. Whereas poo','Early blight, Alternaria solani, culture medium, Growth, sporulation and mycelial dry weight','In the current investigation, a total of 17 different culture media were tested to assess their influence on A. solani cultural characters and sporulation. Colony diameter (9 cm) was significantly highest on Richard\'s agar medium, PDA and host based media at 12 DAI. Similarly, water agar showed excellent sporulation with 56.67 spores per microscopic field and Sabourd\'s broth recorded maximum mycelium dry weight of 333.68 mg at 12 DAI.','-','Ambarish, K.V., Patil, M.B., Amaresh, Y.S., Pramesh, D., Patil, M.G., Sreenivas, A.G. (2021). Evaluation of Different Culture Media on the Growth, Sporulation and Mycelial Dry Weight of Alternaria solani causing Early Blight in Tomato. Biological Forum â€'),(3122,'105','Developmental Biology of Spodoptera exigua (Hubner) (Lepidoptera: Noctuidae) on Tomato under Mid hills (sub-humid) Conditions of India','Vasu Mehta*, Jayaram, C.S., Radha Koranga and Nitika Negi','2 Developmental Biology of Spodoptera exigua _Hubner_ _Lepidoptera Noctuidae_ on Tomato under Mid hills _sub-humid_ Conditions of India Vasu Mehta 1253.pdf','',1,'The beet armyworm, Spodoptera exigua (Hubner) is a polyphagous insect pest that damage and causes economic losses to several field and vegetable crops including maize, cotton, soybean, alfalfa, cotton, tomato etc. in many parts of the world. It is a major pest of tomato under protected and field conditions in Himachal Pradesh and thus, the present investigation was carried out to investigate certain biological parameters of S. exigua on tomato leaves and fruits under laboratory conditions (25Â±4.2Â°C and 65-80% RH) by following proper and simple methodology. The eggs were laid in clusters with an incubation period of 3.50Â±0.82 days. There were six larval instars and the total larval period was 20.50Â±3.84 days. Prior to pupation, the mature larvae curled into C-shape and the prepupal period lasted for 1.50Â±0.13 days, while the pupa was object with a pupal period of 10.50Â±0.42 days. The female moths were larger and survived for a longer time (11.00Â±0.87) than male moths (8.50Â±0.71)','Spodoptera exigua, tomato, biology, life history, laboratory condition, Himachal Pradesh. ','Our study aimed to reveal the biological aspects of S. exigua on tomato, which would give an idea to the researchers and personnel involved in tomato production about the basic biology of this pest on tomato. Experiments conducted by us clearly showed the ease of development of this pest even in laboratory conditions (less mortality). Furthermore, future studies should be focused on evaluating different hosts simultaneously or varieties of same crop against S. exigua under natural and controlled conditions, evaluating chemical components responsible for their susceptibility/resistance and more attention should be dedicated to study demographic parameters of this pest under field conditions for developing effective management strategies.','-','Mehta, V., Jayaram, C.S., Koranga, R. and Negi, N. (2021). Developmental Biology of Spodoptera exigua (Hubner) (Lepidoptera: Noctuidae) on Tomato under Mid hills (sub-humid) Conditions of India. Biological Forum â€“ An International Journal, 13(3a): 11-15'),(3123,'105','Technology Development for Preparation of Tomato Soup Powder with Incorporation of Partially Hydrolyzed Guar Gum','Bhargavanandha K.S.*, Kshirsagar R.B., Agarkar B.S. and Bachate A.H.','3 Technology Development for Preparation of Tomato Soup Powder with Incorporation of Partially Hydrolyzed Guar Gum Bhargavanandha K S 1232.pdf','',1,'The aim of this research project to develop dehydrated tomato soup powder as a functional food by utilizing partially hydrolyzed guar gum (PHGG) as a highly soluble dietary fibre enhancer, and also to improve the consistency, solving viscosity problem of prepared tomato soup. High viscosity nature of guar gum cannot be utilized as a dietary fibre for this reason guar gum was hydrolyzed partially by an enzymatic method (cellulase), PHGG can be used >1% in tomato soup when compared to guar gum. The technology was developed to standardize the process for preparation of tomato soup powder incorporated with partially hydrolyzed guar gum (PHGG) to achieve the desirable characteristics along with increase in soluble dietary fibre. Good quality of raw materials such as ginger powder, onion powder, tomato powder and garlic powder was prepared by using cabinet tray dryer at 60Â°C temperature. Prepared tomato powder contains good source of lycopene, Î²-carotene and vitamin C. Tomato soup powder w','PHGG, Tomato soup powder, Sensory, Chemical composition.','It can be concluded that 15 percent incorporation of partially hydrolyzed guar gum improved sensory attributes, acceptability and consistency of prepared tomato soup. Addition of 15 percent PHGG increased the soluble dietary fibre content in T3 tomato soup powder, and its energy value was found to be 251Â±0.35 Kcal. Addition of PHGG decreases the viscosity of T3 sample. Good quality of ginger powder, onion powder, garlic powder and tomato powder was prepared by using cabinet tray dryer at 60Â°C temperature and also tomato powder contain good source of antioxidants such as lycopene, vitamin C and Î²-carotene. \r\nTomato soup powder prepared by incorporation of partially hydrolyzed guar gum and tomato powder is an innovative product in dehydrated soup mix, as a source of highly soluble dietary fibre. It can be recommended for consumers for curing various diseases such as irritable bowel syndrome, constipation, diarrhea and also prebiotic effect.\r\n','-','Bhargavanandha, K.S., Kshirsagar, R.B., Agarkar, B.S. and Bachate, A.H. (2021). Technology Development for Preparation of Tomato Soup Powder with Incorporation of Partially Hydrolyzed Guar Gum. Biological Forum â€“ An International Journal, 13(3a): 16-24'),(3124,'105','Effect of Gamma Irradiation on Vegetative Characters in various Cultivars of Gladiolus in vM2 Generation','Anand Singh Rawat*, B.D. Bhuj, Ranjan Srivastava, Satish Chand and N.K. Singh','4 Effect of Gamma Irradiation on Vegetative Characters in various Cultivars of Gladiolus in vM2 Generation Anand Singh Rawat 1315.pdf','',1,'The present investigation was undertaken entitled studies of gamma irradiation on vegetative characters in various cultivars of gladiolus in vM2 generation. The experiment was carried out at Model Floriculture Centre (MFC), Govind Ballabh Pant University of Agriculture and Technology, Pantnagar (Uttarakhand), India during winter season of 2018-2019. To conduct field experiment medium sized of corms were used as experimental material from the seven gladiolus varieties viz. â€œNova Luxâ€(V1), â€œPrahaâ€ (V2), â€œBlack Starâ€ (V3), â€œNathan Redâ€ (V4), â€œCandymanâ€ (V5), â€œPunjab Dawnâ€ (V6) and â€œTiger Flameâ€ (V7) irradiated with gamma rays of various doses viz. 0.0 Kr (G0), 4.0 Kr (G1), 4.5 Kr (G2), 5.0 Kr (G3), 5.5 Kr (G4), 6.0 Kr (G5) and 6.5 Kr (G6) which were planted in the open field condition at 30 Ã— 20 cm distance. Experiment was laid out in randomized block design with three replications. In this research experiment various vegetative characters i.e. days to 50 % sp','Gladiolus, gamma rays, mutation breeding, vegetative traits. ','On the basis of findings observed in current investigation, it can be concluded that the treatment of gamma irradiation brought significant variation for different vegetative characters which was inducing for some characters and reducing for some characters. The earliest sprouting, numbers of leaves per plant, length of longest leaves and width of longest were found highest in untreated corms. The interaction effect of gamma rays and varieties, days to sprouting was reduced whereas numbers of leaves and width of longest leaf were increased in untreated corms of cv. Punjab Dawn. The prominent mutants were isolated for further stability and utilization in gladiolus improvement programme.','-','Rawat, A.S., Bhuj, B.D., Srivastava, R., Chand, S. and Singh, N.K. (2021). Effect of Gamma Irradiation on Vegetative Characters in various Cultivars of Gladiolus in vM2 Generation. Biological Forum â€“ An International Journal, 13(3a): 25-28.'),(3125,'105','A Review on Mode of Action of Antibiotics : Paved the Path to Evolution of Antibiotic Resistance and their Mechanisms in Phytobacterial Disease Management','Pravallikasree Rayanoothala*, Sunita Mahapatra and Srikanta Das','5 A Review on Mode of Action of Antibiotics Paved the Path to Evolution of Antibiotic Resistance and their Mechanisms in Phytobacterial Disease Management Pravallikasree Rayanoothala 1246.pdf','',1,'One of the most important public health issues is the crisis of antimicrobial-resistant microorganism infections. In the production of antibiotic resistance bacterium, common agricultural methods are involved. Biopesticides are non-pathogenic living bacteria, considered safe to consume, utilised for the treatment of pests. In high concentrations, application of bacterial pesticides on crops increases the chance of unintent contributions to movement and production within the surrounding area of antimicrobial resistance genes. The existence and the manifestations are currently unclear in clinically important antibiotic resistance genes. In this case, a multi-bioinformatic- and microbiological mix is utilised to define the resistance of large-scale biopesticides and to verify the presence in many biopesticide products of putative antimicrobial resistance genes. Our data show that biopesticide products are clinically significant repositories of antimicrobial resistance genes, which resist ','Antibiotics, resistance, mechanisms, phytobacterial management','The study of antibiotic resistance mechanisms have shown that the EFFLUX pump is actively playing an important role in the development of bacterial antibiotic resistance. Therefore, the Passing Effflux was considered an attractive replacement to reduce the problem. Plants are the source of new antibacterial and resistant modified active ingredients. Many goals and strategies that disturb by combining antibiotic drugs with target websites and various measures that can benefit to reduce resistance development. Explore Replacement Systems (Flavonoids, Tannin Cumarins, V.V.) that inhibit the formation of biological membranes through higher education inhibitors are different approaches to reduce the antibiotic resistance. ','-','Rayanoothala, P., Mahapatra, S. and Das, S. (2021). A Review on Mode of Action of Antibiotics : Paved the Path to Evolution of Antibiotic Resistance and their Mechanisms in Phytobacterial Disease Management. Biological Forum â€“ An International Journal,'),(3126,'105','Effects of Priming of Wheat (Triticum aestivum) Seeds on its Growth and Yield Attributes under Rainfed and Irrigated Condition','Bigyananda Mutum*, Utpal Maity, Bidhan Roy, Puspendu Dutta and Satyananda Basak','6 Effects of Priming of Wheat _Triticum aestivum_ Seeds on its Growth and Yield Attributes under Rainfed and Irrigated Condition Bigyananda Mutum 1263.pdf','',1,'An experiment was performed to study the effects of priming of wheat (Triticum aestivum) seeds on its growth and yield attributes under rainfed and irrigated condition, during Rabi 2019-20 season at Experimental Farm AICRP of Wheat, at Uttar Banga Krishi Viswavidyalya, Cooch Behar, to assess the response of wheat seeds to priming with the chemicals namely-Salicylic acid and PEG (polyethylene glycol).The trial was laid out by using cv. â€œUP 262 (V1) and K0307 (V2)â€ in Factorial Randomized Block Design with three replications and six treatments, each for both variety comprised of two concentrations of each chemicals -Salicylic acid (10 ppm and 20 ppm) as well as polyethylene glycol or PEG (10% and 20%) and two control treatment (with water and without water) along with the same replication each, one in stress condition (Rainfed) and other in normal condition (Irrigated). During Rabi season in West Bengal, shortage of rainfall occurred which induces stress on wheat growth and with appl','Priming, Salicylic acid, polyethylene glycol, rainfed, irriagted.','This research provided us an opportunity to gain practical knowledge about the production technology of wheat and about the effect of priming on growth and yield attributes. Based on the observed data, we can recommend that priming of seed before sowing improves the establishment of crop, early maturation, uniformity in growth, yield, and also stress-tolerant. The result suggests that the treating of Salicylic acid with 20 ppm and PEG with 20 % proved to be efficient towards improving growth, morphology & yield attributing characters. However, overall 20 % of PEG treatment is more suitable for both rainfed i.e. non-irrigated, and irrigated conditions. And also from the result, we can conclude that both chemicals also relieve the crop from stress conditioned where Salicylic acid enhances more stress tolerance than the PEG.','-','Mutum, B., Maity, U., Roy, B., Dutta, P. and Basak, S. (2021). Effects of Priming of Wheat (Triticum aestivum) Seeds on its Growth and Yield Attributes under Rainfed and Irrigated Condition. Biological Forum â€“ An International Journal, 13(3a): 32-38.'),(3127,'105','Review on Isolation, Purification and Pathogenicity of Fusarium oxysporum f. sp. radicis-cucumerinum causing Root and Stem Rot of Cucumber','Suresh Kumar*, N.L. Meena and Neeraj Kumar Meena','7 Review on Isolation, Purification and Pathogenicity of Fusarium oxysporum f. sp. radicis-cucumerinum causing Root and Stem Rot of Cucumber SURESH KUMAR 1299.pdf','',1,'The aim of study was to include different studies viz., isolation, purification, pathogenicity and identification of pathogen. Fusarium root and stem rot caused by Fusarium oxysporum f. sp. radicis-cucumerinum is one of the most damaging diseases of cucumber. Characteristic symptoms of root and stem rot disease noticed were wilting, shrinking of stem, rotting of crown zone and stem. In severe cases infected plants dried completely with deadly appearance. The tradition of the pathogen turned into isolated from the samples collected from diseased plants of cucumber. The pure culture of pathogen changed into received by means of hyphal tip technique. On the basis of morphological and cultural studies, the pathogen was identified as F. oxysporum f. sp. radicis-cucumerinum and further its pathogenicity was confirmed. Isolation, Purification and Pathogenicity of Fusarium oxysporum f. sp. radicis-cucumerinum here under reviewed briefly.','Isolation, Purification, Pathogenicity, Fusarium oxysporum f. sp. radicis-cucumerinum','Cucumber root and stem rot disease caused by Fusariumo xysporum f. sp. radicis-cucumerinum leading to rotting of stem, roots. Characteristic symptoms of root and stem rot disease noticed were wilting, shrinking of stem, rotting of crown zone and stem. In severe cases infected plants dried completely with deadly appearance. The information available on the disease as well as pathogen is very limited. Hence, it changed into very important to examine diverse components of the pathogen and also the sickness.','-','Kumar, S., Meena, N.L., and Meena, N.K. (2021). Review on Isolation, Purification and Pathogenicity of Fusarium oxysporum f. sp. radicis-cucumerinum causing Root and Stem Rot of Cucumber. Biological Forum â€“ An International Journal, 13(3a): 39-42.'),(3128,'105','Influence of Different Methods of Sowing and Phosphorus Levels on Yield and Economics of Late Sown Wheat (Triticum aestivum L.)','Gaddi Nikhil*, Rajesh Singh and Ekta Singh','8 Influence of Different Methods of Sowing and Phosphorus Levels on Yield and Economics of Late Sown Wheat _Triticum aestivum L._ Gaddi Nikhil 1307.pdf','',1,'Planting method plays an important role in the placement of seed at proper depth, which ultimately affects crop growth. The selection of suitable planting method for wheat is dependent upon the time of planting, availability of soil water at planting time, amount of residue in the field. A field experiment was executed during Rabi season of 2020-21 at Crop Research Farm of SHUATS, Prayagraj to study about the influence of different methods of sowing and phosphorus levels on growth and yield of wheat. The experiment was laid out in Randomized Block Design (RBD), comprising two factors and 9 treatments, each replicated thrice. In view of this experiment three methods of sowing, i.e. M1 Broadcasting, M2-Line sowing, M3-System of Wheat Intensification as well as and three Phosphorus levels P1- 40 kg/ha, P2-60 kg/ha and P3-80 kg/ha. Maximum values were recorded higher in the application of (T9) SWI+ Phosphorous 80 kg/ha in effective tillers (9.50) and dry weight (17.46 gm). Maximum values w','Sowing methods, Phosphorus, Yield and Economics.','On the basis of one season experimentation maximum Grain yield (3.37 t/ha), Net returns (` 80,465/ha) and B:C ratio (2.71) was obtained with application of (T8) Line sowing + Phosphorous 80 kg/ha which was significantly superior over all the treatments.','-','Nikhil, G., Singh, R. and Singh, E. (2021). Influence of Different Methods of Sowing and Phosphorus Levels on Yield and Economics of Late Sown Wheat (Triticum aestivum L.). Biological Forum â€“ An International Journal, 13(3a): 43-46.'),(3129,'38','Towards Ethical Principles in the IoT: A Systematic Study','Shivlal Mewada','45 Towards Ethical Principles in the IoT A Systematic Study Shivlal Mewada.pdf','',1,'','','','',''),(3131,'99','Machine Learning and Deep Learning for Challenging Security of IoT: Analysis and Impact','Amir Ijaz, Saleem Raza, Naveed Imran, Mubashir Ali and Vaneeza Iman','32 Machine Learning and Deep Learning for Challenging Security of IoT Analysis and Impact Mubashir Ali.pdf','',1,'','','','',''),(3132,'105','Development of Yeast Based Biocontrol Formulation for Post Harvest Disease Management with Osmotic and Oxidative Stress Tolerance','Jasmin Thomas*, Sanam Halsana, Deewakar Baral and Jayanta Saha','9 Development of Yeast Based Biocontrol Formulation for Post Harvest Disease Management with Osmotic and Oxidative Stress Tolerance Jasmin Thomas.pdf','',1,'The yeast based biocontrol product is safe alternative to synthetic chemicals against post-harvest diseases. Antagonistic yeasts are exposed to a wide range of adverse stresses during pre and post-harvest application, as well as during the production process. Tolerance to environmental stresses is a prerequisite for successful development of biocontrol yeast formulation. An investigation was carried out to develop a stable liquid formulation of the antagonistic yeast isolate Sc YZ 7 (Saccharomyces cerevisiae) with high shelf life and osmotic and oxidative stress tolerance capacity. Osmotic stress tolerance of Sc YZ 7 yeast isolate was evaluated by changing the concentration of molasses and also with different concentrations of Sodium chloride in molasses urea medium. The number of viable cells (CFU ml-1) was determined using modified serial dilution method. The formulation prepared with yeast isolate had highest viability in 1% NaCl and 15% molasses added separately upto 120 days of st','Antagonistic Yeast, Osmotic stress, Oxidative stress, Biocontrol formulation, ecofriendly management.','The yeast isolate Sc YZ7 (Saccharomyces cerevisiae) was found to be resilient to both osmotic and oxidative stress in the formulation in this study. As a result, it could be employed as a biocontrol stain in the creation of formulations. The adaptation to the stressed environment may be due to the accumulation of antistress compounds in the cells. The presence of additives like sorbitol, glycerol and ascorbic acid showed some protective effect against stresses. The molasses urea based medium is good for yeast cell mass multiplication and is inexpensive enough to be employed in commercial production. It is an environmentally friendly method of managing post-harvest fungal diseases. A detailed study on physiological changes and metabolism of yeast cells during osmotic and oxidative stresses will contribute the development of yeast based biocontrol formulation with longer shelf life as well as provide insight into antistress compounds.','-','Thomas, J., Halsana, S., Baral, D. and Saha, J. (2021). Development of Yeast Based Biocontrol Formulation for Post Harvest Disease Management with Osmotic and Oxidative Stress Tolerance. Biological Forum â€“ An International Journal, 13(3a): 47-52.'),(3133,'105','Combining Ability Analysis for Fruit Yield and its Component Traits in Bitter Gourd (Momordica charantia L.)','Manju Kumari, Vijay Kumar Singh, Ajay Bhardwaj, Ghanshyam Thakur, Anand Kumar and Jayant Kumar','10 Combining Ability Analysis for Fruit Yield and its Component Traits in Bitter Gourd Momordica charantia L. Manju Kumari.pdf','',1,'During the summer of 2017, a diallel set of seven parents and their 21 F1s were evaluated at the experimental field of Vegetable & Floriculture, Bihar Agricultural University, Sabour, Bihar to assess the combining ability and degree of heterosis for fruit yield and its component traits. The importance of both additive and non-additive genetic components for these traits was confirmed by combining ability analysis, which demonstrated that both general and specific combining ability differences were important for all of the characters. The per se performance was found to be a good indicator of the parents\' GCA effects and the crosses\' SCA impacts. Pusa Aushadhi and Konkon Tara were found as the best general combiners for yield and its components features among the parents assessed. The superior specific cross combinations Konkan Tara Ã— Gangajali Small, Konkan Tara and Pirpaiti local, and Thailong Ã— Gangajali Small seemed suitable for further use in bitter gourd breeding. The findings a','Bitter gourd, combining ability, GCA and SCA, diallel, fruit yield.','During the summer of 2017, a diallel set of seven parents and their 21 F1s were evaluated at the experimental field of Vegetable & Floriculture, Bihar Agricultural University, Sabour, Bihar to assess the combining ability and degree of heterosis for fruit yield and its component traits. The importance of both additive and non-additive genetic components for these traits was confirmed by combining ability analysis, which demonstrated that both general and specific combining ability differences were important for all of the characters. The per se performance was found to be a good indicator of the parents\' GCA effects and the crosses\' SCA impacts. Pusa Aushadhi and Konkon Tara were found as the best general combiners for yield and its components features among the parents assessed. The superior specific cross combinations Konkan Tara Ã— Gangajali Small, Konkan Tara and Pirpaiti local, and Thailong Ã— Gangajali Small seemed suitable for further use in bitter gourd breeding. The findings a','-','Kumari, M., Singh, V. K., Bhardwaj, A., Thakur, G., Kumar, A. and Kumar, J. (2021). Combining Ability Analysis for Fruit Yield and its Component Traits in Bitter Gourd (Momordica charantia L.). Biological Forum â€“ An International Journal, 13(3a): 53-57'),(3134,'105','Development of Interspecies and Intergeneric Protoplasm fusant of Trichoderma spp. and Metarhizium anisopliae and their Efficacy against Rhizoctonia solani and Colletotrichum capsici','Tingneinem Linda Suantak, K.C. Puzari and Pranab Dutta*','11 Development of interspecies and intergeneric protoplasm fusant of Trichoderma spp. and Metarhizium anisopliae and their efficacy against Rhizoctonia solani and Colletotrichum capsici Pranab Dutta.pdf','',1,'Protoplasts from three fungal antagonists Trichoderma asperellum (ITCC-8886.12), Trichoderma harzianum (ITCC- 8887.12) and Metarhizium anisopliae (ITCC - 8882.12) were obtained following cell-wall digestion by using 20 ml of lysing enzyme (cellulase) @ 8 mg/ml concentration prepared in phosphate buffer. The protoplasts were fused using 40% (w/v) PEG suspended in STC buffer (0.6 M sorbitol, 10mM CaCl2 and 10mM Tris- HCl at pH 7.5). In the present study, the fused protoplasts were regenerated and 9 fusant isolates were used to study their antagonistic activity against Rhizoctonia solani and Colletotrichum capsici. Among the nine isolates, fusant1 (T. harzianum + T. asperellum) showed maximum mycelial growth inhibition with inhibition per cent of 68.88 for R. solani and 82.58 for C. capsici. All the tested fusant isolates exhibited increased antagonistic activity against both the pathogens than the non-fusant isolates of the parent strains except for fusant3 (T. asperellum + M. anisoplia','Colletotrichum capsici, Fusants, Metarhizium anisopliae, Protoplast fusion, Rhizoctonia solani, Trichoderma asperellum, Trichoderma harzianum.','The present study clearly demonstrated that fusant produced from the fusion between Trichoderma harzianum and Trichoderma asperellum showed maximum mycelial growth inhibition of the pathogens C. capsici and R. solani in-vitro. The radial growth of fusants of T. harzianum, T. asperallum and M. anisopliae were fast as compared to the non-fusants ones. The inter-generic and inter- specific protoplast fusion resulted in considerable increase in enzyme activity. The protoplast fusion technology can be further applied for developing superior industrially important fungal strains and mycopesticidal strains. This technique can successfully be used to develop superior hybrid strains in filamentous fungi and entomopathogenic fungi that lack inherent sexual reproduction.','-','Suantak, T.L., Puzari, K.C. and Dutta, P. (2021). Development of Interspecies and Intergeneric protoplasm fusant of Trichoderma spp. and Metarhizium anisopliae and their Efficacy against Rhizoctonia solani and Colletotrichum capsici. Biological Forum â€“ '),(3135,'105','Genetic Diversity Appraisal in Robusta Coffee (Coffea canephora var. S.274) Beans using Random Amplified Polymorphic DNA Markers','S.B. Hareesh* and Jayarama','12 Genetic Diversity Appraisal in Robusta Coffee _Coffea canephora var. S.274_ Beans using Random Amplified Polymorphic DNA Markers S.B. Hareesh.pdf','',1,'Coffee is a most extensively accepted beverage for many centuries. As an export-oriented commodity, coffee plays key position in the national economies of nearly 80 developing countries in the world involved in its production. Indian Coffees are renowned as the worldâ€™s best shade-grown â€˜mildâ€™ coffees. Several studies conducted earlier have signified that molecular biology approaches based on DNA detection methods play a dynamic role in varietal identification, food safety control, and authentication. Molecular markers have been widely useful over recent years to endow with a better perceptive of the genetic basis of important agronomic traits in plants. Breeding programs in coffee are more concerned with the identification of agronomic traits such as quality, resistance to major pests, and diseases besides productivity. In coffee biotechnology, Random amplified polymorphic DNA (RAPDs) are useful in cultivar identification, population & pedigree analyses, phylogenetic studies and','Robusta Coffee, Coffea canephora, RAPD, Genetic Diversity, Organic and Integrated nutrition management (INM) practices.','In the present study, DNA extraction was done from the green coffee of Robusta coffee (Coffea canephora var. S.274) beans. Further by DNA samples were subjected to Polymerase Chain Reaction (PCR) and amplification was done using random primers (RAPD) analysis. Twenty-five decamer primers were used to understand the genetic relatedness and differences among samples that are subjected to different treatments. These twelve primers gave consistent and clear amplification products, of which 70.4 percent bands were polymorphic and the remaining 24 percent bands were found to be monomorphic. On average each primer amplified an average of 6.75 bands, of which 4.75 bands were polymorphic. The RAPD amplification has revealed that Bot 18, Bot 22, and Bot 24 amplified four rare alleles in the samples analyzed. Hence only one variety of Robusta coffee (S.274) is chosen for the present study, RAPD pattern is also revealed relatively low genetic diversity in the Robusta coffee (Coffea canephora var. ','-','Hareesh, S.B. and Jayarama (2021). Genetic Diversity Appraisal in Robusta Coffee (Coffea canephora var. S.274) Beans using Random Amplified Polymorphic DNA Markers. Biological Forum â€“ An International Journal, 13(3a): 66-72.'),(3136,'105','Effect of Laser Land Levelling and Establishment Methods on Growth and yield of Rice','SMS Ramya*, N. Mahesh, P. Revathi3 and B. Raju','13 Effect of Laser Land Levelling and Establishment Methods on Growth and yield of Rice SMS Ramya.pdf','',1,'A field experiment was conducted during the Rabi season, 2020-2021 at Regional Agricultural Research Station, Jagtial to identify better establishment method of rice under different land leveling practices. The experiment was laid out in a strip plot design with three land levelling methods as main plot treatments viz., laser land levelling, conventional land levelling and Control (Unlevelled) and four sub-plots viz., semi dry rice, wet direct seeding, conventional transplanting of rice and machine transplanting. The experimental results revealed that, laser land leveling recorded significantly higher plant height (78.8 cm), tillers m-2 (320), dry matter production (1127 g m-2) and yield attributes effective tillers m-2 (311), filled grains panicle-1 (100), test weight (22.7 g), grain yield (4697 kg ha-1) and straw yield (3628 kg ha-1) compared to conventional land leveling and unleveled control. Among establishment methods significantly higher plant height (85.7 cm), tillers m-2 (414)','Laser land levelling, Methods of establishment, Transplanting, Direct seeding.','Cultivation of rice under laser leveled filed with conventional transplanting found to be better for increasing the growth and yield of rice.','-','Ramya, SMS, Mahesh, N., Revathi, P. and Raju, B. (2021). Effect of Laser Land Levelling and Establishment Methods on Growth and yield of Rice. Biological Forum â€“ An International Journal, 13(3a): 73-78.'),(3137,'105','Effect of Bio-Fertilizers and Organic Manures on Growth and Yield of Organic Rice (Oryza sativa L.)','Tammineedi L. Subramanyam* and Shikha Singh','14 Effect of Bio-Fertilizers and Organic Manures on Growth and Yield of Organic Rice _Oryza sativa L. Tammineedi L. Subramanyam.pdf','',1,'A field experiment was conducted during kharif 2020 at Central Crop Research Farm, Department of Agronomy, SHUATS, Prayagraj (U.P.). The effect of biofertilizers and organic manures on growth and yield of organic rice, the soil of experimental plot was sandy loam in texture, nearly neutral in soil reaction (PH 7.1), low in organic carbon (0.28%), available N (225 kg/ha), available p (19.50 kg/ha), The treatment consists of Azotobacter (25 g/kg), Azospirillum (25 g/kg), Azotobacter + Azospirillum (12.5 + 12.5 g/kg) as seed inoculants and Farm Yard Manure (12 t/ha), Poultry Manure (4 t/ha) and Vermicompost (4 t/ha), whose effect was observed in Rice. The experiment was laid out in Randomized Block Design (RBD) there are 10 treatments which are replicated thrice. The result showed that the growth parameters viz. plant height (75.83 cm) at 100 DAT, number of tillers per hill (12.07) at 100 DAT and dry weight (25.03 g) at 100 DAT was recorded superior with the application of Azotobacter (12','Rice, Azotobacter, Azospirillum, FYM, Poultry Manure, Vermicompost, Growth and Yield.','The treatment with Azotobacter + Azospirillum +12 t/ha of FYM was shown to be more productive (4.77t/ha) and economically (77518 INR/ha) feasible after one season of testing. The conclusion drawn based on the one season data only which require further conformation for recommendation.','-','Subramanyam, T.L. and Singh, S. (2021). Effect of Bio-Fertilizers and Organic Manures on Growth and Yield of Organic Rice (Oryza sativa L.). Biological Forum â€“ An International Journal, 13(3a): 79-83.'),(3138,'105','Survey of Chickpea Wilt caused by Fusarium oxysporum f. sp. ciceri in Vidisha District of Madhya Pradesh','Ashish Shrivastava* and K.C. Mahajan','15 Survey of Chickpea Wilt caused by Fusarium oxysporum f. sp. ciceri in Vidisha District of Madhya Pradesh Ashish Shrivastava.pdf','',1,'Chickpea (Cicer arietinum L.) is one of the important rabi pulse crop grown in Vidisha district of Madhya Pradesh. Madhya Pradesh is leading state in terms of area and production as it contributes around 34 and 41 percent share to the total area and production in the country. The crop is nearly infected by 172 pathogens. Amongst them Fusarium wilt caused by Fusarium oxysporum f. sp. ciceri is one of the major disease of chickpea causing losses to the tune of 100 percent in severe condition. Considering the losses caused by wilt disease of chickpea more than 20 percent in Vidisha district of (M.P.). The present study was undertaken to know the status of chickpea wilt in Vidisha district of Madhya Pradesh. Survey was conducted and chickpea wilt disease incidence was recorded during, the rabi seasons 2018-19 and 2019-20, covering 180 chickpea fields from 60 locations in 10 tehsils under Vidisha district, distributed under Vindhya plateau zone of M.P. In the two cropping season the mean i','Chickpea, Fusarium oxysporum, Survey, Wilt incidence, Vidisha, M.P.','The study revealed that in Vidisha district the mean incidence of chickpea wilt were found maximum in Gyaraspur tehsil (17.87%), followed by Tyonda (17.20 %), Nateran (17.05%), Shamshbad (16.00%), Sironj (15.20%), Kurwai (14.85%), Lateri (13.85%), Vidisha (13.45%), Gulabganj tehsils (12.90%) and Ganjbasoda (12.35 %) respectively. Present study showed that chickpea wilt is highly distributed in all the surveyed areas of Vidisha district of Madhya Pradesh. Variety wise incidence were more on local cultivar (21.30 %) followed by JG 315 (16.35 %) and JG 74 (15.40 %). However, the minimum incidence of chickpea wilt were found on variety JG 12 (15.05%), JG 130 (12.22%) and JG 63 (10.12%).','-','Shrivastava, A. and Mahajan, K.C. (2021). Survey of Chickpea Wilt caused by Fusarium oxysporum f. sp. ciceri in Vidisha District of Madhya Pradesh. Biological Forum â€“ An International Journal, 13(3a): 84-88.'),(3139,'105','Effect of Plant Spacing and Training on Fruit Quality of Capsicum (Capsicum annuum L) under Protected conditions','Ghanshyam Thakur, Anil Kumar Singh, Pankaj Kumar Maurya and Shrawan Kumar Sahani','16 Effect of Plant Spacing and Training on Fruit Quality of Capsicum _Capsicum annuum L_ under protected conditions Ghanshyam Thakur.pdf','',1,'Sweet pepper belongs to the family solanaceae. That is the world\'s 2nd most significant vegetable, after the tomato. Plant spacing and sowing date are significant characteristics of several agricultural production systems. During September 2016 to 2017, the experiment was conducted at Hi-Tech Horticulture, Dr. RPCAU Pusa, Samastipur, Bihar, with the effect of plant spacing and training on fruit quality of capsicum (Capsicum annuum L) under protected conditions. The research design was used to analysis the data factorial RBD with thrice replication with three levels of spacing and training. Under S3P1 (45 cm Ã— 60 cm + two shoots), the maximum length of fruit, breadth of fruit, volume of fruit, fruit shelf life, rind thickness, A+ and â€˜Aâ€™ grade fruits were found among the various combinations of spacing and training level. At all crop growth stages, maximum â€˜B\' grade fruits were recorded in S1P1 (45 cm Ã— 30 cm + two shoots), whereas highest â€˜Câ€™ grade fruits were reported in ','Sweet pepper, training, Plant spacing, protected conditions.','Sweet pepper belongs to the family solanaceae. This is the worldâ€™s largest second most valuable vegetable, behind the tomato. Plant spacing and sowing date are important aspects of several agricultural production systems. The following results can be obtained from an experiment on the interaction effect of plant spacing and training on fruit quality of capsicum (Capsicum annuum L) under protected conditions. A+ and â€˜A\' grade fruits were recorded at the highest levels under S3P1 (45 cm Ã— 60 cm + two shoots) in terms of many kinds of features such as length as well as width fruit, fruit volume, rind thickness, and shelf life. At all crop growth stages, maximum â€˜B\' grade fruits were recorded in S1P1 (45 cm Ã— 30 cm + two shoots), whereas maximum â€˜Câ€™ grade fruits were reported in S1P3 (45 cm Ã— 30 cm + four shoots).','-','Thakur, G., Singh, A.K., Maurya, P.K., and Sahani, S.K. (2021). Effect of Plant Spacing and Training on Fruit Quality of Capsicum (Capsicum annuum L) under protected conditions. Biological Forum â€“ An International Journal, 13(3a): 89-92.'),(3140,'105','Genetic Variability, Correlation and Path coefficient Studies in Chickpea (Cicer arietinum L.) Genotypes in South Eastern Rajasthan','Vijay Kumar Meena*, Preeti Verma, Yamini Tak and Deepak Meena','17 Genetic Variability, Correlation and Path coefficient Studies in Chickpea _Cicer arietinum L._ Genotypes in South Eastern Rajasthan Vijay Kumar Meena.pdf','',1,'The experiment entitled â€œGenetic variability, correlation and path coefficient studies in chickpea (Cicer arietinum L.) Genotypesâ€ was conducted at Agricultural Research Station, Ummedganj, Kota, Agriculture University, Kota, (Rajasthan). The experiment was carried out in randomized block design involving forty chickpea genotypes with three replications during rabi 2019-20. Good amount of variation was recorded for number of pods per plant, biological yield per plant, plant height, days to 50 per cent flowering, harvest index, seed yield per plant and days to maturity. The maximum genotypic coefficient of variation (GCV) and phenotypic coefficient of variation (PCV) were found for protein content followed by seed yield per plant, number of pods per plant and number of branches per plant. High heritability associated with high genetic advance as per cent of mean for protein content, seed yield per plant, number of pods per plant, plant height and 100 -seed weight were denotative t','Chickpea, Genetic Variability, Path coefficient, South Eastern Rajasthan.','The experiment entitled â€œGenetic variability, correlation and path coefficient studies in chickpea (Cicer arietinum L.) Genotypesâ€ was conducted at Agricultural Research Station, Ummedganj, Kota, Agriculture University, Kota, (Rajasthan). The experiment was carried out in randomized block design involving forty chickpea genotypes with three replications during rabi 2019-20. Good amount of variation was recorded for number of pods per plant, biological yield per plant, plant height, days to 50 per cent flowering, harvest index, seed yield per plant and days to maturity. The maximum genotypic coefficient of variation (GCV) and phenotypic coefficient of variation (PCV) were found for protein content followed by seed yield per plant, number of pods per plant and number of branches per plant. High heritability associated with high genetic advance as per cent of mean for protein content, seed yield per plant, number of pods per plant, plant height and 100 -seed weight were denotative t','-','Meena, V.K., Verma, P., Tak, Y. and Meena, D. (2021). Genetic Variability, Correlation and Path coefficient Studies in Chickpea (Cicer arietinum L.) Genotypes in South Eastern Rajasthan. Biological Forum â€“ An International Journal, 13(3a): 93-98.'),(3141,'105','Management of Pod Rot of French bean (Phaseolus vulgaris L.) incited by Sclerotium rolfsii Sacc.','S.K. Munnysha*, R.K. Tombisana Devi, Suresh Kumar and D.M. Pawar','18 Management of Pod Rot of French bean _Phaseolus vulgaris L._ incited by Sclerotium rolfsii Sacc. SHAIK MUNNYSHA.pdf','',1,'S. rolfsii Sacc. is a soil borne pathogen with wide host range and difficult to control by fungicides. Excessive use of fungicides in agriculture has led to deteriorating human health, environmental pollution and development of pathogen resistance to fungicide. Hence, biocontrol agents are getting momentum in recent years due to an increasing awareness of pesticide hazards, environmental pollution and higher cost of development. Endophytes as biocontrol agents are known to control the plant diseases and also helps in plant growth promotion. The present investigation has been carried out to manage the pod rot of French bean incited by Sclerotium rolfsii Sacc. in-vitro and field conditions. Three screened efficient bacterial endophytes bacterial viz., BS80, BS178 and BS118 revealed significant inhibition of radial mycelial growth ranging 29.92 to 65.18% when subjected to dual culture test against S. rolfsii. All these bacterial endophytes were found to be compatible and were used to appl','Sclerotium rolfsii, French bean, Endophytes, Microbial Consortia.','From the present investigation, it may be concluded that pod rot of French bean incited by S. rolfsii Sacc. was found predominantly well distributed in different localities of Meghalaya. The microbial consortia efficacy was tested in field conditions based on their antagonism and in-vitro plant growth promotion studies. Seed treatment + Soil application of Microbial consortium (MC4) gave significant result with PDI of 15.87 Â± 0.43 as compare to control which gave PDI of 37.30 Â± 1.26. Thus it can be concluded that the microbial consortia as biocontrol agents can help to manage the disease incidence providing safer, eco-friendly and economical management. Thus these consortia can be evaluated for multi-location trial for further investigation in future and can implement for successful integrated disease management (IDM) in Meghalaya.','-','Munnysha, S.K., Devi, R.K.T., Kumar, S. and Pawar, D.M. (2021). Management of Pod Rot of French Bean (Phaseolus vulgaris L.) incited by Sclerotium rolfsii Sacc.. Biological Forum â€“ An International Journal, 13(3a): 99-106.'),(3142,'105','Studies on the Relationship between Agronomic and Fruit Quality traits of Passiflora species found in India\'s NEH region','Kripa Shankar* and S.R. Singh','19 Studies on the Relationship between Agronomic and Fruit Quality traits of Passiflora species found in India NEH region Kripa Shankar.pdf','',1,'Improvement work for morphological and biochemical characters especially in Passiflora edulis Sim, Passiflora ligularis Juss, Passiflora edulis f. flavicarpa and Passiflora quadrangularis L. is complicated due to polygenic additive nature of traits among them. North East Region of India has diverse climatic and wide edaphological conditions from valley to upper hills having wide potential for commercialization of Passiflora species. Therefore, studies focused on evaluation of genetic variability components and correlations within morphological and biochemical characters collected from North East Region of India during 2018 to 2020. Fruit yield /vine had the highest genotypic coefficient of variation, whereas number of fruits /vine, number of seeds /fruit, and fruit weight had high heritability with high genetic advance, and correlation studies revealed that number of fruits/vine had the strongest significant positive correlation with fruit yield /vine (kg) for morphological characters.','Passiflora edulis Sim, Passiflora ligularis Juss, Passiflora edulis f. flavicarpa, Passiflora quadrangularis L., correlation, NEH Region','Genotypic and phenotypic coefficients of variation were found strongest for fruit yield /vine (kg). The characters like, tendril length and Vitamin A content are under additive gene effects and hence these characters are more reliable for effective selection. Hence, selection on the basis of these traits will be more useful for the improvement of this crop towards higher fruit yield and quality production. Correlation studies revealed that number of fruits vine-1 had significant positive correlation with fruit yield/vine (kg) whereas total flavonoids had significant positive correlation with juice content/fruit (mL) which indicated the importance of these traits in selection for yield. Direct selection based on these traits would result in simultaneous improvement of aforesaid traits and fruit yield /vine in Passiflora species. From the experiment, it is concluded that the correlation studies of morphological and biochemical traits of Passiflora species found in North East India predic','-','Shankar, K. and Singh, S.R. (2021). Studies on the Relationship between Agronomic and Fruit Quality traits of Passiflora species found in India\'s NEH region. Biological Forum â€“ An International Journal, 13(3a): 107-113.'),(3143,'105','Influence of Spacing and Zinc Levels on Growth and Yield of Lentil (Lens culinaris)','Sulakshana Swargiary*, Umesha C. and Nihal Dwivedi','20 Influence of Spacing and Zinc Levels on Growth and Yiled of Lentil Lens culinaris Sulakshana Swargiary.pdf','',1,'A field experiment was conducted at Central Crop Research Farm, Department of Agronomy, SHUATS, Prayagraj, (U.P.) during Rabi-2020. The soil of experimental plot was sandy loam in texture, nearly neutral in soil reaction (pH 6.7). The objectives were to evaluate the effect of spacing and zinc levels on growth and yield of Lentil (Lens culinaris). The experiment was laid out in randomized block design with nine treatment combinations consisted of three different spacing viz., S1(20 cm Ã— 10 cm), S2 (30 cm Ã— 10 cm), S3(40 cm Ã— 10 cm) and three levels of Zinc viz., Z1 (4 kg ha-1), Z2 (6 kg ha-1), Z3 (8 kg ha-1) which were replicated thrice. The result shown significantly higher plant height (48.08 cm), dry weight (11.01 g), number of branches/plant (3.90), number of nodules/plant (11.63) and yield attributes viz., test weight (7.73 g), number of pods/plant (115.26), number of seeds/pod (2.57) were recorded higher with spacing of 40 cm Ã— 10 cm along with the application of 8 kg Zn/ha wh','Spacing, Zinc, Lentil, Yield, Crop.','On the basis of study, it can be concluded that for obtaining higher yield in Lentil, the treatment combination of spacing 30 cm Ã— 10 cm along with the application of 8 kg/ha Zinc was found more productive with highest grain yield, maximum net returns and B:C ratio because of the optimum plant population and better individual plant performances together. ','-','Swargiary, S., Umesha C. and Dwivedi, N. (2021). Influence of Spacing and Zinc Levels on Growth and Yield of Lentil (Lens culinaris). Biological Forum â€“ An International Journal, 13(3a): 114-117.'),(3144,'105','Evaluation of different Organics, Chemicals and Growth Regulators for Germination and Seed Priming Methods for Improvement of Seed Quality Parameters in Cucumber (Cucumis sativus L.)','Kethavath Priyanka*, Arun Kumar Chaurasia and Pradeep Kumar Shukla','21 Evaluation of different Organics, Chemicals and Growth Regulators for Germination and Seed Priming Methods for Improvement of Seed Quality Parameters in Cucumber _Cucumis sativus L._ Kethavath Priyanka.pdf','',1,'Seed germination is controlled by many environmental factors and natural conditions, which in turn affect seedling establishment. Seeds are often placed under certain conditions unfavourable for germination. Although seed priming is a practical method, which can improving synchronize seed germination and increase seed vigour, leads to better crop establishment. Current experiment conducted in the year 2021 to evaluate the performance of different seed priming treatments for improving seed quality parameters in cucumber. The study was carried out in the seed testing laboratory of department of Genetics and Plant Breeding, SHUATS, Prayagraj with the thirteen treatments as Panchagavya, Jeevamruth, KH2PO4, NaCl, Gibberellic Acid and Beejamruth of varying concentrations. Experimentation was carried out by using Complete Randomized Design with four replications by roll towel paper method under controlled climatic condition. The current research highlights issues related to germination and se','Beejamrutha, Cucumber, Growth regulators, Jeevamruth, Panchagavya, Seed quality.','Judging by the positive results obtained from the study, priming of cucumber seeds germinate early and maintain a high level of germination throughout the germination period. Seeds with the treatment T4- Jeevamruth at 10% for 8 hours found to be promising with maximum germination of 92.75%, 34.95 cm seedling length, 3168.77 seedling vigour indices be recommended for seed priming of cucumber.Similarly, the performance of at par treatment; T12-Beejamurth at 10% for 8 hours performed well with 91.25 germination%, 34.48 cm seedling length 0.25 g dry weight and vigour indices of 3082.29 and 22.82 respectively. From the result, it can be concluded that seed priming is an alternate strategy to develop healthy seedlings under adverse conditions to a particular extent; priming with organics, Jeevamruth and Beejamruth were found promising and can be suggested for commercial cultivation.','-','Priyanka, K., Chaurasia, A.K. and Shukla, P.K. (2021). Evaluation of different Organics, Chemicals and Growth Regulators for Germination and Seed Priming Methods for Improvement of Seed Quality Parameters in Cucumber (Cucumis sativus L.). Biological Foru'),(3145,'105','Genetic Plasticity Studies in Portulaca (Portulaca oleracea L.)','Kedarnath, Imamsaheb S.J.* and C.N. Hanchinamani','22 Genetic Plasticity Studies in Portulaca _Portulaca oleracea L._ Imamsaheb S. J.pdf','',1,'The Experiment was conducted at Kittur Rani Channamma College of Horticulture, Arabhavi, UHS, Bagalkot during the year 2018-19. In India even though it is rich source of nutraceuticals, still being treated only as a weed and its cultivation as a food crop and the effects of cultural conditions on its nutritional value is known very little. Estimation of the phylogenetic relationship and knowing the genetic diversity between genotypes in germplasm of any species is essential as it provides useful traits for further genetic development and increase selection efficiency. Genetic diversity in plant varieties can be estimated by observing the phenotypes of the plants and measuring the morphological characters which in turn lay foundation for breeding programs. Hence the present study on Genetic plasticity studies in portulaca, accessions collected from different location of Karnataka were undertaken. The experiment was laid out using randomized block design (RBD) with three replications. Ob','Variability, Heritability, Genetic Advance and Portulaca oleracea.','High degree of additive components like high estimates of heritability coupled with high GAM and presence of high GCV and PCV were obtained for the characters like plant height, number of leaves, leaf area, number of branches, number of inflorescence per plant, secondary branches, plant spread E-W, plant spread N-S, stem girth, number of node, number of flowers, 1000 seed weight, fresh weight of plant, dry weight of plant, foliage yield per plant, foliage yield per plot, foliage yield per hectare, Vit-A, Vit-C, protein calcium, magnesium content, iron content, zinc, oxalate, nitrates and chlorophyll. It indicates in portulaca genetic improvement can be achieve through selection by using the existing germplasms for above characters.','-','Kedarnath, Imamsaheb, S.J. and Hanchinamani, C.N. (2021). Genetic Plasticity Studies in Portulaca (Portulaca oleracea L.). Biological Forum â€“ An International Journal, 13(3a): 122-127.'),(3146,'105','Response of Pre and Post Emergence Herbicides on Nutrient uptake by Chickpea and Weeds','Sanju Kumari, Kanhaiya Lal and Birendra Kumar*','23 Response of Pre and Post Emergence Herbicides on Nutrient uptake by Chickpea and Weeds Sanju Kumari.pdf','',1,'Generally, rabi pulses grown in marginal crop land under minimal management. Initial slow vegetative phase provides more scope to weed growth. Corp weed competition leads to distribution of resources which cause huge losses to the crop yield. To understand resources distribution in chickpea a field experiment was laid out at BAU research farm, Sabour during rabi of 2019-20 to assess the effect of various pre and post-emergence herbicides in chickpea. The experiment consisted of 13 treatments i.e. pendimethalin @ 1000 g a.i. ha-1 PE fb 1 HW, oxyfluorfen @ 100 g a.i.ha-1 PE fb 1 HW, imazethapyr @ 40 g a.i. ha-1 PoE, quizalofop-ethyl @ 50 g a.i. ha-1 PoE, topramezone @20 g a.i. ha-1 PoE, topramezone @ 25 g a.i. ha-1 PoE, clodinafop-propargyl + Na-acifluorfen @ 500 g a.i. ha-1 PoE, pendimethalin @ 1000 g a.i. ha-1 PE fb imazethapyr @ 40 g a.i. ha-1 PoE, pendimethalin @ 1000 g a.i. ha-1 PE fb quizalofop-ethyl @ 50 g a.i. ha-1 PoE, oxyfluorfen @ 100 g a.i. ha-1 PE fb imazethapyr @ 40 g a.i. ','Chickpea, weed management, topramezone, nutrient uptake, herbicide.','On the basis of field trial findings, it can be concluded that application of herbicides like pendimethalin @ 1000 g a.i. ha-1 PE fb 1 HW, oxyfluorfen @ 100 g a.i. ha-1 fb 1 HW, topramezone @ 25 g a.i. ha-1 and topramezone @ 20 g a.i. ha-1 results in significantly higher nutrient (N, P and K) uptake and in case of weeds, these herbicidal application results in the minimum nutrient (N, P and K) uptake by weeds. Such herbicides were successful in controlling weeds resulting in lower crop weed competition ultimately leading to higher nutrient uptake by chickpea and lowering down the nutrient uptake by weeds. ','-','Kumari, S., Lal, K. and Kumar, B. (2021). Response of Pre and Post Emergence Herbicides on Nutrient uptake by Chickpea and Weeds. Biological Forum â€“ An International Journal, 13(3a): 128-133.'),(3147,'105','Species Identification and Seasonal Abundance of Red Spider Mite on Okra at Vidarbha Region of India','Archana N. Borkar*, A.V. Kolhe, D.B. Undirwade, S. S. Mane, H.R. Sawai and V.J. Tambe','24 Species Identification and Seasonal Abundance of Red Spider Mite on Okra at Vidarbha Region of India Archana N. Borkar.pdf','',1,'Tetranychus mites have been reported to cause a loss of 20 to 45% in okra yield. Limited literature is available on red spider mite occurrence from the Vidarbha region at the same time species level identification of red spider mite from this region is unclear. On that note, during Kharif, 2017 and 2018 a study on seasonal abundance of red spider mite on okra was conducted in three different agro-ecological zones of Vidarbha region (viz., Akola, Gadchiroli and Nagpur) of Maharashtra, India and simultaneously field collected red spider mite was identified at the species level by both morphological and molecular techniques. The study revealed red spider mite species, Tetranychus macfarlanei as a predominant species on okra in the Vidarbha region, and to our best knowledge, this is the first report from these locations. The higher mite population was recorded at Akola location with 66.4 mites/2.5 cm2 leaf area during 38th MW of Kharif 2018 while the least mite population was recorded at ','Tetranychus macfarlanei, Kharif, red spider mite, Vidarbha, species identification, seasonal abundance. ','This study identified and confirmed T. macfarlanei as the predominant species of red spider mite and registered it as the first record of such kind of species on okra in Vidarbha to our best knowledge. The peak of the mite population occurred during September and October. Akola location showed a relatively higher mite population (66.4 mites/2.5 cm2). At Gadchiroli and Nagpur locations, maximum temperature has a positive and significant correlation with spider mite while relative humidity (morning and evening) and rainfall had a negative but significant correlation.','-','Borkar, A.N., Kolhe, A.V., Undirwade, D.B., Mane, S.S., Sawai, H.R. and Tambe, V.J. (2021). Species Identification and Seasonal Abundance of Red Spider Mite on Okra at Vidarbha Region of India. Biological Forum â€“ An International Journal, 13(3a): 134-1'),(3148,'105','Effect of Biofertilizers and Sulphur Levels on Growth and Yield of Yellow Mustard (Sinapis alba)','C.Y.N.A. Vijayeswarudu* and Rajesh Singh','25 Effect of Biofertilizers and Sulphur Levels on Growth and Yield of Yellow Mustard _Sinapis alba_ C.Y.NA. Vijayeswarudu.pdf','',1,'A field experiment was conducted in Rabi 2020 at Crop Research Farm (CRF), Department of Agronomy, SHUATS, Prayagraj (U.P.). The soil of experimental plot was sandy loam in texture, nearly neutral in soil reaction (pH 7.1), low in organic carbon (0.36%) available N (171.48 kg/ha), available P (15.2 kg/ha) and available K (232.5 kg/ha). The trial was placed out in Randomized Block Design with nine treatments each replicated thrice. The treatments are T1: PSB +15 kg/ha S, T2: PSB + 30 kg/ha S, T3: PSB + 45 kg/ha S, T4: Azotobacter + 15 kg/ha S, T5: Azotobacter +30 kg/ha S, T6: Azotobacter + 45 kg/ha S, T7: VAM + 15 kg/ha S, T8: VAM + 30 kg/ha S, T9: VAM + 45 kg/ha S used. The results showed that viz: plant height (94.46 cm), Branches (10.60), dry weight (23.71 g) number of siliquae per plant (133.92), seeds per siliquae (33.80) and test weight (3.63 g) were recorded significantly higher with application of PSB + 45 kg S/ha. Moreover, maximum seed yield (1.80 t/ha) and stover yield (3.36','Mustard, Biofertilizers, Sulphur, siliquae and seed yield.','On the basis of present study, suggests that the application of PSB + 45 kg/ha S resulted highest plant height (94.46 cm), number of branches per plant (10.60), siliquae/plant (133.92), seeds/siliquae (33.80), seed yield of (1.80 t/ha), stover yield (3.36 t/ha).','-','Vijayeswarudu, C.Y.NA. and Singh, R. (2021). Effect of Biofertilizers and Sulphur Levels on Growth and Yield of Yellow Mustard (Sinapis alba). Biological Forum â€“ An International Journal, 13(3a): 140-143.'),(3149,'105','Effect of NAA and Zinc sulphate on Fruiting Parameters, Marketable Yield and Quality of Litchi [Litchi chinensis (Gaertn.) Sonn.].','Siddhartha Gautam, J.P. Singh, Suneel Kumar Patel and Swatantra Yadav','26 Effect of NAA and Zinc sulphate on Fruiting Parameters, Marketable Yield and Quality of Litchi [Litchi chinensis _Gaertn._ Sonn.]. Siddhartha Gautam.pdf','',1,'An experiment was conducted at Horticulture Garden, Department of Fruit Science, Chandra Shekhar Azad University of Agriculture and Technology Kanpur during the year 2020-21. Factorial Completely Randomised Design was used with three replications and sixteen treatments with four levels each of NAA (0, 20, 30 and 40ppm) and Zinc (0, 0.2, 0.4 and 0.6%) and their combination. Spraying was done twice i.e. before flowering and at Pea stage respectively. Sprays of 30ppm NAA significantly maximized length of fruit (3.02cm), fruit diameter (2.76cm), fresh weight of fruit (18.91g), pulp weight (13.00g), marketable yield (68.50 kg/plant), total sugar (13.20%) and TSS (19.46Â°Brix). Control (N0) revealed 2.66cm, 2.35cm, 17.51g, 11.46g, 47.08kg/plant, 11.98% and 18.42Â°Brix values respectively. Zinc applied at 0.4% proved effective and significantly enhanced in length of fruit (3.04cm), fresh weight of fruit (19.09g), pulp weight (13.12g) and TSS (19.60Â°Brix) over control (Z0) recorded 2.58cm, 17','litchi, NAA, zinc, yield, TSS and total sugar.','On the basis of results obtained in present investigation it is concluded that individual application of NAA and \r\nzinc brought about significant changes in plant metabolism. NAA 30ppm improved fruit set, fruit retention, length of fruit, diameter of fruit, fresh weight of fruit, pulp weight, rind weight, marketable yield, total sugar and TSS content. Itâ€™s also minimized important desired characters i.e. cracked fruits and fruit drop. Zinc 0.4% dose was found more effective on enhancing fruit set, fruit retention, length of fruit weight, weight of fresh fruit, pulp weight, marketable yield and TSS content and itâ€™s also minimized fruit drop, cracked fruit and seed weight. NAA 30ppm in association with 0.4% zinc was more effective on length, diameter of fruit and rind weight, marketable yield, sugar content and TSS content and it also minimized cracked fruits in litchi. Thus, in view of the above achievements 30ppm NAA in consumption with 0.4% zinc may be recommended s','-','Gautam, S., Singh, J.P., Kumar, S. and Yadav, S. (2021). Effect of NAA and Zinc on Fruiting Parameters, Marketable Yield and Quality of Litchi [Litchi chinensis (Gaertn.) Sonn.]. Biological Forum â€“ An International Journal, 13(3a): 144-148.'),(3150,'105','Nutrients Uptake by Groundnut (Arachis hypogaea L.) and Soil Fertility under the Influence of Enriched Vermicompost','Sarika Donga* and R. K. Mathukia','27 Nutrients Uptake by Groundnut _Arachis hypogaea L._ and Soil Fertility under the Influence of Enriched Vermicompost Sarika Donga.pdf','',1,'Continuous use of inorganic fertilizers plays a vital role in deteriorating the soil health. Use of organic manure is the best remedy for maintaining soil quality as well as productivity and replacement of mineral fertilizers. Biofertilizers are the source of microbial inoculants, which have brought hopes for developing country like India to solve problem of high cost of fertilizers. Azotobacter, PSB, KSB and Rhizobium have provided high quality products free of harmful agro-chemicals for human safety. The biological and nutritional value of vermicompost can be improved by enrichment with microorganisms and micronutrients. In this context, a field experiment was conducted during kharif season of 2019 & 2020 on calcareous clayey soil at Junagadh (Gujarat) to study the effect of vermicompost enriched with biofertilizers, bioagents and micronutrients on nutrients uptake by kharif groundnut (Arachis hypogaea L.) and soil fertility.\r\nResults indicated highest pod yield (23.05 q/ha) and haul','Groundnut, Enriched Vermicompost, Biofertilizers, Bioagents, Micronutrients, Nutrient Uptake, Soil fertility.','On the basis of the results obtained from the present two-year field experimentation, it can be concluded that application of vermicompost 2 t/ha enriched with biofertilizers (Rhizobium + PSB + KSB each 2 L/ha), bioagents (Trichoderma harzianum 3 kg/ha + Pseudomonas fluorescens 3 L/ha + Beauveria bassiana 3 kg/ha) and micronutrients [(Fe + Zn + Cu + Mn) Grade-V @ 40kg/ha] increased soil fertility and uptake of nutrients by groundnut and ultimately enhanced pod and haulm yields on calcareous clayey soil under South Saurashtra Agro-climatic Zone.','-','Donga, S. and Mathukia, R.K. (2021). Nutrients Uptake by Groundnut (Arachis hypogaea L.) and Soil Fertility under the Influence of Enriched Vermicompost. Biological Forum â€“ An International Journal, 13(3a): 149-152.'),(3151,'105','Effect of Deficit Irrigation Regimes and Mulching on VNR Bihi Guava Agronomical and Fruit Quality Performance','Rajkumar Jat*, Vijay P. Singh, Ratna Rai, Omveer Singh and P.K. Singh','28 Effect of Deficit Irrigation Regimes and Mulching on VNR Bihi Guava Agronomical and Fruit Quality Performance RAJKUMAR JAT.pdf','',1,'The scarcity of irrigation water is one of the major causes of low productivity of guava orchards. Deficit Irrigation (DI) is a recently proposed water saving technique in irrigated agriculture. The impact of deficit irrigation regimes and mulching on VNR Bihi guava agronomical and quality performance was studied during the year 2019-20 and 2020-21. The experiment was carried out in two factorial randomized block design with 12 different treatment combinations consisted of three deficit irrigation levels i.e., DI at 50% ETc (DI50), DI at 75% ETc, and FI at 100% ETc. with four types of mulches (silver-black, black-black, organic mulch and without mulch) which are replicated thrice. Results revealed that fully irrigated trees had the highest vegetative growth in terms of plant height, plants spread and stem girth. However, DI50 along with silver-black mulch produced maximum total soluble solids, TSS: acid with minimum titratable acidity during both the years of experimentation.','Deficit irrigation, mulching, fruit quality and guava','Deficit irrigation is found as a productive and water saving technique in drip-irrigated guava orchard. This study demonstrated that mild water deficit during fruit growth period could impose desirable water stress on the guava plants, resulting improved internal fruit qualities (total soluble solids and acidity) in the crop.','-','Jat, R., Singh, V.P., Rai, R., Singh, O. and Singh, P.K. (2021). Effect of Deficit Irrigation Regimes and Mulching on VNR Bihi Guava Agronomical and Fruit Quality Performance. Biological Forum â€“ An International Journal, 13(3a): 153-159.'),(3152,'105','Carp Spawn to Fry Rearing in Specially Designed Floating Cage Nursery','B.C. Mohapatra*, D. Majhi and S.K. Panda','29 Carp Spawn to Fry Rearing in Specially Designed Floating Cage Nursery B.C. Mohapatra.pdf','',1,'The present study focuses on survivability and growth assessment of spawn to fry rearing of rohu, Labeo rohita in a floating cage nursery system, specifically designed and fabricated under ICAR-AICRP on PEASEM (All India Coordinated Research Project on Plastic Engineering in Agriculture Structures and Environment Management) scheme, centre at ICAR-CIFA (Central Institute of Freshwater Aquaculture), Bhubaneswar. The cage system is comprised of a platform of 6 Ã— 6 m size with four net cages synthesized using nylon hapa of 1/40â€ (635 Âµm) mesh size. The hapa inside the cages is braced with MS (mild steel) frames of 2 Ã— 2 Ã— 1.5 m. The buoyancy of the floating cage nursery structure is calculated to be 77.37%, which is found suitable for safe operation. The rohu spawn were stocked@ 1000, 2000, 3000 & 4000 numbers per m3 in the four floating cage nurseries (C1-C4) in a 2-hectare reservoir of ICAR-CIFA Farm. The experiment was conducted in duplicate treatments (T1 & T2). The T-1 was cond','Floating nursery; Cage culture; Fish seed; Spawn; Fish fry; IMC','In India, there are available 3.15 million ha of reservoirs. To get enhanced biomass production from these water bodies, carp fingerlings or advanced fry are to be stocked at the right time and in the right numbers. Many schemes are there to encourage the owners of these reservoirs to stock them with carp fingerlings, but availability and transport are the major constraints. The current study on fish seed production in specially designed cage nurseries showed encouraging survival rates for Indian Major Carps. The scaled-up facilities of the present design can be fruitful to meet the demand of the fish seed requirement for stocking the large waterbodies of the country.','-','Mohapatra, B.C., Majhi, D. and Panda, S.K. (2021). Carp Spawn to Fry Rearing in Specially Designed Floating Cage Nursery. Biological Forum â€“ An International Journal, 13(3a): 160-164.'),(3153,'105','Effect of Geospatial Variations on Fruits Structure and Sensory Properties of Mango Variety Alphonso','Prathiksha*, H.C. Krishna, B.G. Hanumantharaya, S. Bhuvaneswari, K.R. Vasudeva, Anil Kumar S., G.K. Ramegowda, and R.S. Rakshitha','30 Effect of Geospatial Variations on Fruits Structure and Sensory Properties of Mango Variety Alphonso PRATIKSHA.pdf','',1,'Mango is a major fruit crop of tropical region and Alphonso is the most popular variety of mango. Different locations have varying qualities of Alphonso mangoes as growing conditions and locations determine the quality of mango. In this study, different geospatial parameters viz. altitude, temperature, rainfall, humidity, soil nutrients were analysed to know their effect on quality of mango var. Alphonso. Panicles were colour tagged at four different locations viz. Bengaluru (930 m mean sea level), Chikkaballapura (865 m MSL), Hogalgere (836 m MSL) and Ramanagara (747 m MSL) which are about 228km distant from each other. Mangoes were harvested at their optimum maturity and quality was analysed. The results revealed that the fruits from Hogalgere had the highest longitudinal (96mm) and equatorial (75.74mm) size and firmness (74.52HC). The sensory analysis revealed that the fruits from Hogalgere had excellent scores for appearance (4.90), colour (4.95), texture (4.62), aroma (4.89), tast','Altitude, Geospatial, Firmness, Size, Sensory parameters. ','The size, firmness and sensory parameters of mangoes are influenced by the temperature, rainfall, soil nutrients and the duration for which they remain on the trees. The geospatial variations cause considerable difference in the final quality of the mangoes. Also, these factors have impact on the days required from flowering to maturity. There was clear indication of difference in number of days required for flowering and the shelf life of the fruits from different locations. Postharvest management of fresh mangoes is a tedious job, and requires careful monitoring. However, understanding geospatial condition and its intricate correlation details may aid in maintaining the postharvest quality and extending the shelf life of mangoes. Therefore, the geospatial variations can be studied in depth to understand the reason behind the difference in the qualities of mangoes from different locations','-','Prathiksha, Krishna, H.C., Hanumantharaya, B.G., Bhuvaneswari, S., Vasudeva, K.R., Anil Kumar, S. Ramegowda, G.K. and Rakshitha, R.S. (2021). Effect of Geospatial Variations on Fruits Structure and Sensory Properties of Mango Variety Alphonso. Biological'),(3154,'102','Bio-efficacy of Insecticides against Stem Borer, Chilo partellus Swinhoe and Shoot Fly, Atherigona approximata Malloch in Dual Purpose Pearl millet-A Combination Techniques','S.K. Choudhary*, Swaroop Singh, J.K. Bana and B.L. Tandi','114 Bio-efficacy of Insecticides against Stem Borer, Chilo partellus Swinhoe and Shoot Fly, Atherigona approximata Malloch in Dual Purpose Pearl millet-A Combination T SK Choudhary.pdf','',1,'A field trial was conducted during 2014-15 and 2015-16 at Experimental Farm, Rajasthan Agricultural Research Institute (SKNAU), Durgapura, Rajasthan to manage stem borer and shoot fly in dual purpose pearl millet crop by using different newer insecticides in combinations as seed treatment and foliar spray. The results indicated that imidacloprid 600 FS @ 8.75 ml kg-1 as seed treatment with combination of imidacloprid 17.8 SL @ 300 ml ha-1 as foliar spray at 35 days after germination (DAG) (T1) was observed most effective than other treatments against stem borer and shoot fly in dual purpose pearl millet at vegetative and earhead stage. This treatment were recorded highest grain yield (22.37 q ha-1) and fodder yield (45.89 q ha-1), respectively. Among the tested molecules, T1 was gave highest net returns is Rs. 14495 ha-1 followed by T7 is Rs. 12373 ha-1 (Imidacloprid 600 FS @ 8.75 ml kg-1 as seed treatment with foliar spray of fenvalerate 0.4% @ 20 kg ha-1 at 35 DAG). The maximum B:C ','Infestation, management, pearl millet, stem borer, shoot fly, yield.','It is concluded that based on two year study, application of insecticides in combinations found most effective against stem borer and shoot fly in pearl millet. Seed treatment with imidacloprid 600 FS@ 8.75 ml kg-1 seed + foliar spray of imidacloprid 17.8 SL@ 300 ml ha-1 at 35 days after germination was observed lowest infestation of both the insects, highest grain yield and economic returns followed by seed treatment with imidacloprid 600 FS@ 8.75 ml kg-1 seed + foliar application of fenvalerate 0.4% @ 20 kg ha-1 at 35 days after germination in pearl millet crop.','-','Choudhary, S.K., Singh, S., Bana, J.K. and Tandi, B.L. (2021). Bio-efficacy of Insecticides Against Stem Borer, Chilo partellus Swinhoe and Shoot Fly, Atherigona approximata Malloch in Dual Purpose Pearl millet-A Combination Techniques. Biological Forum â'),(3155,'105','Characterization and Diversity Analysis of Rice Germplasm','N. Naga Durga Rao, V. Roja*, M. Tushara, V. Satyanarayana Rao and V. Srinivasa Rao','31 Characterization and Diversity Analysis of Rice Germplasm V. Roja.pdf','',1,'Plant genetic resources are very important for crop improvement. The higher the variability, higher will be the chances of developing a character since the breeding programme requires much genetic variation for crop improvement. In the present study, genetic diversity of 30 rice germplasm was studied for agro-morphological characters based on 14 qualitative and 11 quantitative traits. Shannon weaver diversity indices for qualitative characters ranged from 0.21 to 0.90. High diversity index value (0.90) was exhibited by lemma tip color followed by decorticated grain shape, leaf senescence and decorticated grain color indicating that these characters are highly variable among the germplasm. The low value diversity index value (0.21) was exhibited by panicle characters namely, presence or absence of awns and its distribution, type of panicle exertion. Cluster analysis of rice germplasm based on qualitative characters grouped rice germplasm into five clusters with the maximum inter-cluster','Shannon weaver diversity index, Principal component analysis, agro morphological characters, Cluster analysis.','Morphological variation does not always reflect real genetic variation because of interaction between genotype and environement, and the large unknown genetic control of polygenic, morphological and agronomic traits. Morphological traits are useful for preliminary evaluation because it is fast, simple, and can be used as a general approach for assessing genetic diversity among morphologically distinguishable cultivars.The present study revealed wide variation among the germplasm with respect to the morphological characters studied. ','-','Rao, N.N.D., Roja, V., Tushara, M., Rao, V.S. and Rao, V.S. (2021). Characterization and Diversity Analysis of Rice Germplasm. Biological Forum â€“ An International Journal, 13(3a): 170-179.'),(3156,'105','Study of Genetic Variability Parameters for Seed Yield and Component Traits in Mothbean [Vigna aconitifolia (Jacq) Marechal] under Arid Environment','Savita Meena*, N.K. Sharma, A. K. Sharma, Ravinder Kumar and Gopikrishan Gour','32 Study of Genetic Variability Parameters for Seed Yield and Component Traits in Mothbean [Vigna aconitifolia _Jacq_ Marechal] under Arid Environment Savita Meena.pdf','',1,'A field experiment with 36 genotypes of mothbean was conducted to study genetic variability parameters for seed yield and its component traits at Swami Keshwanand Rajasthan Agricultural University, Bikaner during Kharif-2020. Significant differences were existed among genotypes for all 26 characters under study. The high degree of genetic variability along with high heritability and high genetic advance as percent of mean were recorded for harvest index, seed yield per plant, number of pods per plant, biological yield per plant, days to 50 percent flowering, membrane stability index, water absorption capacity, seedling vigour, water absorption index, chlorophyll-a, total chlorophyll content, days to maturity, seedling dry weight and plant height which indicates that these characters were under the control of additive gene action. Consequently, more stress should be laid on these characters and selection method may be adopted for improvement in the yield of mothbean. Genotypes/varieties','Genotypes, mothbean, seed yield, variability parameters, desirable traits.','A field experiment with 36 genotypes of mothbean was conducted to study genetic variability parameters for seed yield and its component traits at Swami Keshwanand Rajasthan Agricultural University, Bikaner during Kharif-2020. Significant differences were existed among genotypes for all 26 characters under study. The high degree of genetic variability along with high heritability and high genetic advance as percent of mean were recorded for harvest index, seed yield per plant, number of pods per plant, biological yield per plant, days to 50 percent flowering, membrane stability index, water absorption capacity, seedling vigour, water absorption index, chlorophyll-a, total chlorophyll content, days to maturity, seedling dry weight and plant height which indicates that these characters were under the control of additive gene action. Consequently, more stress should be laid on these characters and selection method may be adopted for improvement in the yield of mothbean. Genotypes/varieties','-','Meena, S., Sharma, N.K., Sharma, A.K., Kumar, R. and Gour, G. (2021). Study of Genetic Variability Parameters for Seed Yield and Component Traits in Mothbean [Vigna aconitifolia (Jacq) Marechal] under Arid Environment. Biological Forum â€“ An Internationa'),(3160,'105','Character Association and Path Coefficient Analysis for Yield and its Contributing Traits in Pigeonpea [Cajanus cajan (L.) Millspaugh]','Charupriya Chauhan, S.K. Verma*, R.K. Panwar, Amit Gaur, Ashish Gautam, Aparna, Harsh Deep, Harikant Yadav, Anandi Karn, Charu Bisht and Archi Gupta','33 Character Association and Path Coefficient Analysis for Yield and its Contributing Traits in Pigeonpea [Cajanus cajan _L._ Millspaugh] Charupriya Chauhan.pdf','',1,'Seed yield in pigeonpea is a complex and highly variable trait, controlled by several genes. The study of genetic association of the yield with other morphological characters may help to devise improved selection indices for yield improvement. Correlation coupled with path-coefficient analysis is a powerful tool to examine the character associations and their final effect on yield. The present study was undertaken with 75 pigeonpea genotypes using augmented randomized complete block design to ascertain the associations among yield and component characters and their effects by path analysis in pigeonpea during Kharif, 2020. Character association studies revealed that the number of pods per plant (NPP), 100 seed weight (HSW), and the number of seeds per pod (NSP) were strongly and positively associated with seed yield (Yield). Path coefficient analysis revealed that the number of pods per plant (NPP) had a high positive direct effect on seed yield (Yield), and therefore the number of pod','Pigeonpea, Correlation coefficient, Path coefficient, Morphological characters.','A pursual of the above results revealed that Yield was significantly and positively correlated with the important yield components viz., NPP, HSW, NSP, and PH (cm) which indicated that an improvement in these characters will bring an improvement in the seed yield. Path coefficient analysis revealed that NPP contributed maximum towards the seed yield. Therefore, to devise a suitable selection criterion for yield enhancement in future pigeonpea breeding programmes these traits must be prioritized.','-','Chauhan, C., Verma, S.K., Panwar, R.K., Gaur, A., Gautam, A., Aparna, Deep, H., Yadav, H., Karn, A., Bisht, C., and Gupta, A. (2021). Character Association and Path Coefficient Analysis for Yield and its Contributing Traits in Pigeonpea [Cajanus cajan (L.'),(3161,'105','Ethnoveterinary Plants used by Rural People of Dagshai Region in District Solan of Himachal Pradesh, India','Kalpna*, Radha, Pallavi, Ashok Pundir, Mamta Thakur, Radhika Jamwal, Sonia Rathour, Shivani Thakur, Kumari Baveja Devi, Monika Guleria, Amit Kumar, Mansoor Ali, Salena Janjua, Neeraj Kumari, Suraj Prakash, Anupama Chandel, Bhupender Kumar, Pramod Prakash and Sunil Puri','34 Ethnoveterinary Plants used by Rural People of Dagshai Region in District Solan of Himachal Pradesh, India RADHA.pdf','',1,'','','','',''),(3162,'105','Effect of Varying Fertility Levels and Biofertilizer on Growth, Yield and Economics of Fenugreek','Riddhi Patel*, J.C. Shroff, P.M. Parmar and S.N. Shah','35 Effect of Varying Fertility Levels and Biofertilizer on Growth, Yield and Economics of Fenugreek P. M. Parmar.pdf','',1,'A field experiment was conducted at the College Agronomy Farm, B. A. College of Agriculture, Anand Agricultural University, Anand, Gujarat to assess the effect of Varying fertility levels and biofertilizer on the growth, yield and economics of fenugreek during the rabi season of the year 2020-2021. The experiment was laid out in factorial randomized block design with three replications. Treatment combinations include three fertility levels viz., 50% RDF, 75% RDF and 100% RDF (20 kg N/ha & 40 kg P2O5/ha) and four levels of biofertilizer viz., control, seed treatment with Bio NP, drenching of Bio NP, seed treatment with Bio NP + drenching of Bio NP at 30 DAS. The results revealed that application of 100% RDF recorded significantly the highest plant height at 30 DAS, 60 DAS and at harvest, number of branches per plant at 30 DAS, 60 DAS and at harvest, dry weight of nodules/plant at 45 DAS, green biomass yield at 30 DAS (1057 kg/ha), number of pods/plant, pod length, number of seeds/pod, t','Fenugreek, Bio-fertilizers, Bio NP, Drenching, Economics','Based on results obtained from the present experiment, it can be stated that for accruing higher green biomass, seed yield and net returns from fenugreek crop (cv. GM 2), crop should be fertilized with 20 kg nitrogen and 40 kg phosphorus per hectare and application of biofertilizer either as seed treatment with Bio NP (5 ml/kg seed) or drenching of Bio NP (1 lit/ha) at the time of sowing or both seed treatment with Bio NP (5 ml/kg seed) and drenching of Bio NP (1 lit/ha) at 30 DAS is suitable in middle Gujarat condition.','-','Patel, R., Shroff, J.C., Parmar, P.M. and Shah, S.N. (2021). Effect of Varying Fertility Levels and Biofertilizer on Growth, Yield and Economics of Fenugreek. Biological Forum â€“ An International Journal, 13(3a): 210-213.'),(3163,'105','Status of Combine Harvested Paddy Straw Management and Economics of Pulse Sowing in Eastern India','Bhabani Shankar Dash*, Sangram Keshari Swain, Debaraj Behera, Rashmi Ranjan Pattnaik and Ashish Kumar Dash\r\n','36 Status of Combine Harvested Paddy Straw Management and Economics of Pulse Sowing in Eastern India Bhabani Shankar.pdf','',1,'Combine Harvested (CH) paddy straw left behind in the field obstruct the movement of the machines and furrow openers causing irregular seed placement thereby affecting the growth of plants. Farmers opt for open field straw burning as an easy and economical way to manage straw without realising the implications on soil and the environment. A study comprising of 132 farmers was conducted through a three-stage purposive sampling method to assess different straw management and pulse sowing methods in two districts of Odisha and evaluate the cost economics involved in pulse sowing. The study revealed that the percentage of farmers adopting burnt-out straw (BOS), usable straw (US) and leftover straw (LOS) for Puri and Bhadrak districts are 67.14, 50.05 and 49.99% and 59.94, 51.93 and 55.93%, respectively. Among the four distinct conventional field preparation and pulse sowing methods practised in these regions, the two prominent methods were C + B + C (cultivator + broadcasting + cultivator)','Residue burning, Straw management, Pulse sowing, Cost economics, Purposive sampling, Broadcasting.','The study was conducted employing a three-stage purposive sampling method to evaluate the status of CH paddy straw management and pulse sowing methods in Odisha with 132 respondents (farmers), and the following specific outcomes were obtained.\r\n1. The farmers in the study area mostly practise the conventional method of straw management (burning, manual collection, and straw retention) with mean burning rates of 67.14 and 59.94% in the Puri and Bhadrak districts, respectively. \r\n2. The practice of open field straw burning is emerging as a low-cost option to manage the combine harvested straw within the field to facilitate the operation of available machinery (rotavator, cultivator, and zero-till drill) in the field. \r\n3. Among the practised conventional pulse sowing techniques, the most economical and popular methods of sowing were identified to be C + B + C and C (2) + B + Cv with an expenditure of Rs 1994.0 and 2476.0 per ha, respectively.\r\n4. It was also observed that, use of conserv','-','Dash, B.S., Swain, S.K., Behera, D., Pattnaik, R.R. and Dash, A.K. (2021). Status of Combine Harvested Paddy Straw Management and Economics of Pulse Sowing in Eastern India. Biological Forum â€“ An International Journal, 13(3a): 214-220.'),(3164,'105','Development of Sterilization and Initiation Protocol for in vitro Regeneration in Bamboo (Bambusa balcooa Roxb.)','Ananthu J.S.*, S.V. Pawar, B.R. Najan, Y.M. Raut and Vaibhav Parmeshwar Gulwane','37 Development of Sterilization and Initiation Protocol for in vitro Regeneration in Bamboo _Bambusa balcooa Roxb._ Ananthu J S.pdf','',1,'In bamboo, propagation is usually done by two main methods. First by propagation of bamboos by using offsets, culm or side branch cuttings and second way is through micropropagation, also called as clonal propagation, which is best achieved through tissue culture techniques. In vitro propagation is frequently used for meeting the ever-growing demand for this bamboo species due to its multipurpose nature. The present investigation on development of sterilization and initiation protocol for in vitro regeneration in bamboo (Bambusa balcooa Roxb.) was undertaken to identify suitable explants and media for its micropropagation. The experiment was conducted using nodal explants collected from Bamboo Plantation Project, MPKV, Rahuri and the current research was conducted in State Level Biotechnology Centre, MPKV, Rahuri. Nodal explants as explants and MS media as basal media were found ideal for in vitro culture. In case of sterilisation of nodal explants, sterilisation done with Tween 20 (10','Nodal explants, Sterilization, Initiation, MS media, Standard error.','Among different bamboos, Bambusa balcooa is one among the most important and desired species of farmer for raising plantation mainly due to its multipurpose utility. Since unknown past, the species has been extensively cultivated and became a very popular bamboo for the farmers. It grows well in tropical humid conditions. It also has a high Calorific value and Fuel Value Indices (FVI) which makes it suitable for Bio- energy plantations and gasification.\r\nBambusa balcooa is suitable for paper and pulp industry. It shows superior strength properties including good culm wall thickness. Life cycle of clump is more than 50 years and also has an added advantage as it shows minimal pest problems and no gregarious flowering in India. Due to the increasing demand of Bambusa balcooa, in vitro regeneration of this bamboo has gained importance as it enables mass multiplication in a small period of time and thus it offsets the limitations of traditional propagation methods followed earlier. \r\nAn ef','-','Ananthu J.S., Pawar, S.V., Najan, B.R., Raut, Y.M. and Gulwane, V.P. (2021). Development of Sterilization and Initiation Protocol for in vitro Regeneration in Bamboo (Bambusa balcooa Roxb.). Biological Forum â€“ An International Journal, 13(3a): 221-227.'),(3165,'105','Effect of Feeding Cotton Gin Trash on Haematological and Serum Biochemical Values in Mecheri Lambs','N. Sri Balaji, S. Ramakrishnan*, J. Muralidharan, A.K. Thiruvenkadan, P. Vasan and K. Sivakumar ','38 Effect of Feeding Cotton Gin Trash on Haematological and Serum Biochemical Values in Mecheri Lambs N. Sri Balaji.pdf','',1,'Cotton gin trash is a by-product when cotton fibres are separated from cotton seed at the ginning factory. Sheep farmers in Karur and Tirupur districts of Tamil Nadu have started using these cotton gin trash to meet the energy and protein requirements of their sheep without knowing the nutritive value of cotton gin trash. To validate the usage of cotton gin trash feeding in Sheep, a trial was conducted with 32 weaned Mecheri lambs at the age of 3 months and formed into four groups of eight animals in each group to find out the effect of feeding cotton gin trash on hematological and serum biochemical values. In all four groups, the basal diet used for the experiment had roughage: concentrate in the ratio of 60:40 on dry matter basis depended on their body weight but in T2, T3, T4 group the roughage diet was replaced with cotton gin trash at 25%, 50% and 75% inclusion level. The animals were reared up to 9 months of marketing age. The hematological and serum parameters were analyzed on 0','Cotton gin trash, Mecherilambs, blood and serum biochemical values.','From the present study, it concluded that the haematological and biochemical values of Mecheri lambs were within the normal range and it implies that the feeding of cotton gin trash up to 75% inclusion level as a roughage diet were not harmful to the Mecheri lambs and further study can be conducted in adult animals to find out the effect of feeding cotton gin trash on blood parameters if any.','-','Balaji, N.S., Ramakrishnan, S., Muralidharan, J., Thiruvenkadan, A.K., Vasan, P. and Sivakumar, K. (2021). Effect of Feeding Cotton Gin Trash on Haematological and Serum Biochemical Values in Mecheri Lambs. Biological Forum â€“ An International Journal, '),(3166,'105','Assessment of Genetic Variability for Different Parameters in Fenugreek under Moisture Regime','Bhuri Singh* and Vivechana Rajpoot','39 Assessment of Genetic Variability for Different Parameters in Fenugreek under Moisture Regime Bhuri Singh.pdf','',1,'An experiment was conducted to assess the genetic variability in fenugreek genotypes under moisture regimes. Thirty genotypes of fenugreek were sown in RBD with three replications during rabi season 2019-20. The results of ANOVA showed significant differences among the genotypes for all the parameters under study indicating the presence of wide spectrum of variability among the genotypes. High PCV (>20), high heritability (>60) coupled with high genetic advance as percentage of mean (>20%) was observed for proline content in leaves (mg/g) at 60 DAS and maturity and seed yield per plant suggesting that these parameters are genetically governed by additive gene action and genotypes RMt-143, RMt-305, GM-1, AFG-3 and RMt-303 can be utilized in selection for fenugreek improvement.','Fenugreek, genetic advance, heritability, moisture, variability.','From the above investigation, it can be revealed that the genotypes showed a significant variation and genetic gain among each other under moisture regime condition. The parameters viz., Proline content in leaves at 60 DAS and maturity, seed yield per plant, number of branches per plant, number of pods per plant, crude protein content and test weight showed high value for heritability and genetic advance as percentage of mean. The most promising genotypes RMt-143, RMt-305, GM-1, AFG-3 and RMt-303 were showed high values for the above-mentioned important parameters Thus, these parameters and genotypes should be considered during selection for higher yield potential in fenugreek under moisture stress condition at pre and post flowering stages. On the basis of the value and tolerance, these genotypes are needed to evaluate for breeding purposes. ','-','Singh, B. and Rajpoot, V. (2021). Assessment of Genetic Variability for Different Parameters in Fenugreek under Moisture Regime. Biological Forum â€“ An International Journal, 13(3a): 232-237.'),(3167,'105','Study on Genetic Diversity and correlation in Mungbean [Vigna radiata (L.) Wilczek] Under Arid Zone','Gopi Krishan Gaur*, A.K. Sharma, Anil Kumar and Priyanka Meena','40 Study on Genetic Diversity and correlation in Mungbean [Vigna radiata _L._ Wilczek] Under Arid Zone Gopi Krishan Gaur.pdf','',1,'The analysis of variance disclosed significance differences among 35 genotypes for all the 13 characters proposing the presence of great inherent genetic variations. The highest magnitudes of GCV and PCV were discovered for number of pods per plant and water absorption capacity. High heritability associated with high genetic advance as per cent of mean altogether spotted for the traits like number of pods per plant, water absorption capacity, seed yield per plant and plant height. Seed yield per plant had significant and positive correlation with number of pods per plant, pod length, 100-seed weight, biological yield per plant, harvest index, germination percentage, seed volume and water absorption capacity. In addition to these traits, positive direct effect to seed yield was detected for days to maturity, plant height, number of pods per plant, 100-seed weight, biological yield per plant, harvest index, germination percentage, seed volume and water absorption capacity. The 35 genotyp','Genotypes, variability, correlation, path coefficient.','The genotypes which produced substantial seed yield and performed better for desirable traits were Keshwanand mung-1, RMG-492, GM-4, SML-668, RMG-62, IPM-2-3, VIRAT, Ganga-8, MEHA and MH-421. Thus, these varieties could be used for cultivation in arid zone as well as used in breeding programme to develop high yielding varieties.','-','Gaur, G. K., Sharma, A.K., Kumar, A. and Meena, P. (2021). Study on Genetic Diversity and correlation in Mungbean [Vigna radiata (L.) Wilczek] Under Arid Zone. Biological Forum â€“ An International Journal, 13(3a): 238-242.'),(3168,'105','Investigations on Yield Advantage, Light Interception and Crude Protein Content of Fodder Crops as Influenced by Intercropping with Pigeonpea','Rajashree*, Dodamani B.M., Rathod P.S., Patil, D.H. and Amaregouda A.','41 Investigations on Yield Advantage, Light Interception and Crude Protein Content of Fodder Crops as Influenced by Intercropping with Pigeonpea RAJASHREE.pdf','',1,'India is having largest livestock population and is facing serious lack of fodder. This is due to increasing pressure on land for growing food grains, oilseeds, pulses and inadequate attention being given to the production of fodder crops. There is a huge gap between the fodder demand and fodder supply. This gap can be minimized by adapting suitable cropping systems. Pigeonpea is the major crop of northern parts of Karnataka. As pigeonpea is a long duration and widely spaced crop, the inter row space can be used efficiently by adapting intercropping system. Hence, intercropping pigeonpea with fodder crops helps in reducing the fodder scarcity problems without compromising on economic yield of pigeonpea. Hence, present investigation is carried out to evaluate the yield advantage, light interception and crude protein content of fodder crops as influenced by intercropping with pigeonpea. The experiment was laid out in randomized complete block design and replicated thrice, it consisted o','crude protein content, fodder crop, intercropping, LER, PEY, Pigeonpea.','Fodder scarcity problems of current situation can be minimized by improvement in cropping system such as intercropping system. Pigeonpea being widely spaced and long duration crop gives ample opportunity to utilize inter row space. Hence intercropping fodder crops in pigeonpea can be a better option to utilize light, space and time and profitable also. Under the present investigation when all the treatments were compared intercropping pigeonpea with fodder legumes was found to be better than fodder cereals because of higher intercropping yield advantage and higher protein content.','-','Rajashree, Dodamani, B.M., Rathod, P.S., Patil, D.H. and Amaregouda, A. (2021). Investigations on Yield Advantage, Light Interception and Crude Protein Content of Fodder Crops as Influenced by Intercropping with Pigeonpea. Biological Forum â€“ An Internat'),(3169,'105','Rainfall Trend Analysis using Non-Parametric Test for Raichur Region, Karnataka','Rajashekhar M.*, Rahul Patil and Murali M.','42 Rainfall Trend Analysis using Non-Parametric Test for Raichur Region, Karnataka Rajashekhar. M.pdf','',1,'The study of rainfall trends is critically important for a country like India whose food security is dependent on the timely availability of water.The purpose of this study is to identify monthly, seasonal and annual rainfall trends, as well as their magnitude, in the Raichur region in Karnataka. Daily rainfall data from 1981 to 2020 was processed using the Mann-Kendall Test, Modified Mann-Kendall Test and the Senâ€™s Slope Estimator to determine trend and slope magnitude. The findings of the trend analysis revealed substantial variations in all seasons. Zc readings show a positive trend for ten months and a negative trend for two months. Senâ€™s slope factor reveals a seven-month positive trend, a one-month negative trend and four months of no change in trend. These statistical tests indicated that the region has undergone minor changes overall.','Rainfall trend, Precipitation, Mann-Kendall, Modified Mann-Kendall, Senâ€™s Slope estimator.','The Zc statistics revealed the trend of the series for 40 years (1981-2020) for individual 12 months from January to December, which are -1.74, 1.15, 0.67, 2.20, 2.11, 2.58, 0.69, 1.43, 1.20, 0.48, -1.12, and 0.20, respectively, in the non-parametric Mann-Kendall test. There is evidence of growing rainfall tendency in the months of February, March, April, May, June, July, August, September, October, and December, whereas Zc value is displaying a negative trend in January and November. Similarly, there is a positive trend in Sen\'s slope estimator for the months of April, May, June, July, August, September, and October. Only the month of November shows a downward trend. The pattern did not change in the four months of January, February, March, and December. Thus, Zc readings for three months demonstrate a significant condition and non-significant condition for the remaining nine months. The rainfall trend study assisted in understanding the Raichur region\'s monsoon pattern and so anticip','-','Rajashekhar M., Patil, R. and Murali M. (2021). Rainfall Trend Analysis using Non-Parametric Test for Raichur Region, Karnataka. Biological Forum â€“ An International Journal, 13(3a): 248-252.'),(3170,'105','Efficiency of different Manures on the Growth and Yield of Rice (Oryza sativa) under open Condition','R. Vijaykumar*, Biswarup Mehera and Neelam Khare','43 Efficiency of different Manures on the Growth and Yield of Rice _Oryza sativa_ under open Condition R. Vijaykumar.pdf','',1,'A field experiment was conducted at Forest Nursery and research Centre (College of Forestry) of Sam Higginbottom University of Agriculture, Technology & Sciences Prayagraj during kharif season 2019 with sixteen treatments replicated thrice in a randomized block design to efficiency of different Manures on the growth and yield of Rice (Oryza sativa) under open condition along with discussion on the experiment finding in the light of scientific reasons to understand the cause and effect relationship dully supported by finding. The data regarding growth, yield attributes, yield, soil physic-chemical parameter were recorded at suitable crop growth stage, respectively were the manures in the experimental field. Among the organic manure, green manure, green leaf manure with control treatments, result shows that significantly. The maximum performance of grain yield observed in T6 (44.41 q ha-1) (50% goat manure + 50% green manure (Crotalaria juncea) followed by T10 (43.55q ha-1) (50% goat ','Rice, Organic Manures, Green Manures, Green leaf manures Manure, open condition.','In conclusion, it could be concluded from the results obtained that, the integration of N levels of organic manure, green manure and green leaf manure leads to a promising approach to agricultural aspects where, from an assessment of the inherent yield, soil quality and maximum production, productivity and profitability with farmers, an affordable perspective. Results obtained from this study show that manure i.e. among 3 different combinations of Cow Manure, Sheep Manure, Poultry manure and 2 green manures i.e. Sunhemp Crotalaria juncea, Dhaincha Sesbania aculeate, 3 green leaf manures, i.e. Pongamia glabra, Neem Azadirachta indica, Gulmohar Delonix regia, respectively. Therefore, under open condition both growth, yield attributes, yield have been found to be maximal in T6-50% goat manure + 50% (Crotalaria juncea) so it is suggested that organic manure to be provided with green manure for achieving high yield. Manure application also offers the positive soil health effect it enhance','-','Vijaykumar, R., Mehera, B. and Khare, N. (2021). Efficiency of different Manures on the growth and yield of Rice (Oryza sativa) under open condition. Biological Forum â€“ An International Journal, 13(3a): 253-260.'),(3171,'105','In vitro Efficacy of Microbial Bioagents Against Rhizoctonia bataticola (Taub.) Butler, Inciting Dry Root Rot Disease of Soybean','Ajesh B.R.*, T.K. Narute, S.V. Kolase, S.B. Latake and R.T. Gaikwad','44 In vitro Efficacy of Microbial Bioagents Against Rhizoctonia bataticola _Taub._ Butler, Inciting Dry Root Rot Disease of Soybean Ajesh B.R.pdf','',1,'Dry root rot of soybean (Glycine max (L.) Merril) incited by Rhizoctonia bataticola (Taub.) Butler, is one of the most destructive diseases of soybean during recent years causing substantial economic losses (70 to 80%) to soybean growers. The study aimed at minimizing the indigenous usage of chemical fungicides and adopting the strategy of biological control for management of this devastating fungus. In this study, dual culture technique was used to see how effective various bioagents were at managing R. bataticola. All the nine bioagents tested in vitro had a significant inhibitory impact on the pathogen. Trichoderma viride produced maximum mycelial inhibition of the pathogen (86.30%) followed by T. virens (82.97%), Aspergillus niger (81.48%), T. atroviride (79.63%), T. hamatum (78.52%), T. harzianum (77.03%), Pseudomonas fluorescens (73.70%), Bacillus subtilis (70.74%), and T. koningii (69.63%).','bioagents, biological control, dry root rot, Rhizoctonia bataticola, soybean. ','The ability of polyphagous, soil inhabiting R. bataticola to survive for longer periods as sclerotia in the soil makes its management a difficult chore. However, the current study found that using bioagents aids in the effective management of soybean dry root rot disease. Trichoderma viride was found to be the most effective bioagent, followed by T. virens with mycelial growth inhibition percentage of 86.30 and 82.97 respectively. T. koningii, on the other hand, was shown to be the least effective against pathogen. \r\nUse of bioagents greatly lower the disease incidence. Farmers benefit from the use of bioagents not only in terms of lowering cultivation costs, but also in terms of increasing yields. The current study advises more trials to be undertaken in naturally infected soybean fields to encourage the use of bioagents as an eco-friendly technique for the management of the dry root rot disease and thereby, lower the cost of cultivation by avoiding unsustainable chemical practices. \r','-','Ajesh B.R., Narute, T.K., Kolase, S.V., Latake, S.B. and Gaikwad, R.T. (2021). In vitro Efficacy of Microbial Bioagents Against Rhizoctonia bataticola (Taub.) Butler, Inciting Dry Root Rot Disease of Soybean. Biological Forum â€“ An International Journal,'),(3172,'105','Effect of Sowing Time and Planting Geometry on Yield and Economics of Mustard (Brassica juncea)','P.C. Lalruatfeli*, A.A. Choudhary, N.R. Mairan and T. Pareek','45 Effect of Sowing Time and Planting Geometry on Yield and Economics of Mustard _Brassica juncea_ P. C. Lalruatfeli.pdf','',1,'Due to changing climatic condition such as the shift in onset and withdrawal of monsoon, shift in temperature where the lowest temperature that usually occurs during the middle of December has somehow shifted further. As a result, the desired cooler temperature does not coincide with the flowering period under conventional sowing time. So the time of sowing of mustard has to be adjusted to coincide the time of flowering with the occurrence of lower temperature of the season. A field experiment was conducted at Agronomy Farm, College of Agriculture, Nagpur (Maharashtra), India during rabi season of 2020- 21. Mustard var. TAM-108-1 was grown on clayey soil, medium in available nitrogen, low in phosphorous and very high in potassium having pH 7.7. The experiment was laid out in Factorial Randomized Block Design with 12 treatment combinations replicated three times. The treatments consist of three sowing dates [First week of November (S1), Second week of November (S2) and Third week of No','Mustard, Sowing time, Planting geometry, Economics.','It may be concluded that among the sowing time, first week of November was found to be the optimum time of sowing mustard with significantly superior yield and yield attributes and economics over second week of November and third week of November. Among the planting geometries, 45 Ã— 10 cm and 45 Ã— 15 cm was found to be the optimum spacing for getting better growth and yield of mustard. Growing of mustard under closer spacing reduced the growth and yield of mustard.','-','Lalruatfeli, P.C., Choudhary, A.A., Mairan, N.R. and Pareek, T. (2021). Effect of Sowing Time and Planting Geometry on Yield and Economics of Mustard (Brassica juncea). Biological Forum â€“ An International Journal, 13(3a): 266-269.'),(3173,'105','Marketing Behaviour of Jute Farmers in Katihar District of Bihar','S. Nayak M. K. Wadhwani, S. Kumari* and S. Susovita','46 Marketing Behaviour of Jute Farmers in Katihar District of Bihar S. Nayak.pdf','',1,'The study explored the marketing behaviour of jute farmers in Katihar district of Bihar based on a sample of 90 jute farmers. The sampling was done through SRSWOR method using Multi-stage Sampling Technique from two clusters consisting of three villages in each of two blocks namely Kadwa and Mansahi of Katihar District. The data were collected through Survey Method with help of pre-tested schedule. The sample taken during study consisted of 29 small and marginal farmers (32.33 per cent), 30 semi-medium farmers (33.33 percent), 21 medium farmers (23.33 percent) and 10 large farmers (11.11 per cent). The marketing behaviour of jute farmers were analysed in terms of their time of sale, choice of market and place of sale. The data obtained for marketing behaviour of jute farmers from the primary survey was analysed, summarized and tabulated. The study revealed that, time of sale for majority of farmers (81.1 %) sold their produce immediately after harvest and only 18.9 percent sold on late','Golden Fibre, SRSWOR, Garrettt Score,','It may be concluded from the study that there is a need of proper training for the farmers in adopting the appropriate agro-techniques in production and post-harvest management of jute for increasing the production efficiency of it. Majority of jute growers in the study area were found exploited by middle-men because of lack of market information and less knowledge about different grade of jute. The raw jute cultivated in the state is being exported to neighbouring state West Bengal as there is lack of jute processing mills in the state, (Schemes and Measures to Strengthen Jute Sector PIB, 2017). Therefore strengthening the marketing system of raw jute for ensuring remunerative price for raw jute should also be given at most priority. The government procurement centers should be increased so that farmers will be able to deposit their produce at the time when prices are very low in market. Production of jute diversified products should be encouraged as they will create huge demand for r','-','Nayak, S., Wadhwani, M. K., Kumari, S. and Susovita, S. (2021). Marketing Behaviour of Jute Farmers in Katihar District of Bihar. Biological Forum â€“ An International Journal, 13(3a): 270-274.'),(3174,'38','Degradation and Bioremediation of Herbicides by Microorganisms','Surendar Kumar','46 Degradation and Bioremediation of Herbicides by Microorganisms Dr SURENDER KUMAR.pdf','',1,'','','','',''),(3175,'105','Studies on Potato Seed Tuber Degeneration in Karnataka','Soumya Shetty*, Prasad P. S., H. Amarananjundeswara, Sandhya G. C., Vishnuvardhan and N. Basavaraj','47 Studies on Potato Seed Tuber Degeneration in Karnataka Soumya Shetty.pdf','',1,'Pathogen buildup in vegetative planting material which is drawn from within a crop population over multiple generations, termed as seed degeneration. The degeneration of potato is appeared to be either due to physiological causes or due to infection of tuber-borne viruses. To study the potato seed tuber degeneration an experiment was conducted under AICRP on Potato at Horticulture Research and Extension Centre, Hassan, Karnataka during Rabi season for three consecutive years from 2017 to 2019. An experiment was conducted by using Randomized Complete Block Design with four replications. In the study, treatment with previous seed produce with seed plot technique and previous seed produce without seed plot technique tubers were used. The variety Kufri Jyoti was adopted in the experiment as a ruling variety and agronomic practices were followed as per the package of practices of UHS, Bagalkot. An observation on per cent plant emergence, total tuber yield, per cent incidence of mosaic and P','Seed degeneration, Mosaic, Potato Leaf Roll Virus, Yield, seed plot technique.','In the study, lower percentage mosaic (10.70) and potato leaf roll virus of 7.02 per cent incidence were observed in the treatment with previous seed produce using seed plot techniques at 50 days after planting and it was also documented highest tuber yield of 12.38 t/ha. The results indicates in each generation potato seed tuber yield under gone degeneration losses at the range of 2.68 t/ha and 21.64 per cent. Hence, it is concluded that, tubers used from previous seed produce following seed plot techniques observed lower incidence of mosaic and PLRV with higher yield during Rabi season under Southern Dry Zone of Karnataka. Over all, use of seed plot technique for the production of potato tubers was found beneficial as it reduced the rate of degeneration. Further, incorporation of hi-tech seed production systems coupled with advanced virus detection techniques may help in fulfilling the very large demand of quality seed potatoes in the state.','-','Shetty, S., Prasad P. S., Amarananjundeswara, H., Sandhya G. C., Vishnuvardhana and Basavaraj, N. (2021). Studies on Potato Seed Tuber Degeneration in Karnataka. Biological Forum â€“ An International Journal, 13(3a): 275-278.'),(3176,'102','Physical Factors Associated with Resistance against Pulse Beetle, Callosobruchus chinesis (L.) on Chickpea Genotypes in Laboratory Conditions','Lovely Kumari* and Md Abbas Ahmad','115 Physical Factors Associated with Resistance Against Pulse Beetle, Callosobruchus chinesis _L._ on Chickpea Genotypes in Laboratory Conditions Lovely Kumari.pdf','',1,'Screening of fifteen chickpea genotypes for identifying the physical basis resistance were carried out against Callosobruchus chinensis (L.) under laboratory condition in Department of Entomology at Dr. Rajendra Prasad Central Agricultural University, Pusa during 2016-17. On the basis of morphological observation recorded that seed coat thickness ranged from 0.09 to 0.31 mm with maximum in C1064 (0.31 mm) and minimum in C1021 (0.09 mm). 100 seed weight ranged from 13.88 to 31.53 grams with maximum in BG 256 (38.03g) and minimum in C1063 (13.88g). The female beetle laid the lowest number of eggs on rough and small seeds of C1021, however, it preferred to highest number of eggs on smooth and medium seeds of C1025. None of the genotypes were completely resistant to the attack of C. chinensis differed in the resistance, which may seems to be due to the physical seed characters (colour, shape, size, texture, seed coat thickness and 100 seed weight) of chickpea genotypes.','Chickpea genotypes, Callosobruchus chinensis (L.), susceptibility, seed coat thickness, colour, smooth','On the basis of the current findings it may be concluded that the chickpea genotype C1120 was highly susceptible to C. chinensis and thus needs special attention to store than the least susceptible genotypes. Seed weight governed by seed size, might have influenced the amount of surface available to C. chinensis for oviposition. Seed weight and seed coat thickness did not play any important role in C. chinensis resistance. The results of this study showed that the least susceptible genotypes having rough and angular seed surface with small size like BG256, C1025, C1147, C1160, C1165, BG372, C1064, C1088, and C1156 proved promising and thus could be in future breeding purposes as C. chinensis resistant line, and these genotypes also deserves further studies as it is free from damage by pulse beetle.','-','Kumari, L. and Ahmad, M.A. (2021). Physical factors associated with resistance against Pulse Beetle, Callosobruchus chinesis (L.) on Chickpea genotypes in laboratory conditions. Biological Forum â€“ An International Journal, 13(3): 665-668.'),(3177,'105','Standardization of Seed Priming Techniques in Bitter Gourd (Momordica charantia L.)','K. Madhusudhanreddy, Randhir Kumar, Arun Kumar and Ajay Bhardwaj','48 Standardization of Seed Priming Techniques in Bitter Gourd Momordica charantia L. K. Madhusudhanreddy.pdf','',1,'The present investigation was laid to standardize the seed priming durations for bitter gourd (Momordica charantia L.). Bitter gourd seed coat is hard. So it needs seed priming as it reduces the germination time, enhances the seedling emergence, germination percentage (%) and uniformity under normal as well as adverse climatic conditions. By keeping this in view, seeds of bitter gourd variety Kahalgaon Local were subjected to various seed priming treatments with different soaking durations keeping unprimed seeds as control. In case of hydro priming, increased soaking duration (18 hours) enhanced the seed germination and quality parameters compared to less soaking duration (12 hours). Among various osmo priming treatments, low concentration of PEG (2%) with less soaking duration (12 hours) gave good results at the same time increase in concentration of PEG (4%) with high soaking period (18 h) results in poor germination. In halo priming, increased in the concentration of KNO3 (4%) with ','Bitter gourd, halo-priming, hormonal treatment, hydro-priming and osmo-priming.','From this investigation it is concluded that, in case of hydro priming increased soaking duration (18 h) enhanced the seed germination and quality parameters compared to less soaking duration (12 h). Among various osmo priming treatments it is concluded that low concentration of PEG (2%) with less soaking duration (12 h) gives good results and increase in concentration of PEG (4%) with high soaking period (18 h) results in poor germination percentage. In case of halo priming, increased in the concentration of KNO3(4 %) with more soaking duration (18 h) enhanced the seed germination and seed quality parameters compared to remaining treatments. Among hormonal treatments, GA3 500 ppm with 18 h soaking period gives the best results in terms of seed germination, vigour index-I and Vigour index-II.','-','Madhusudhanreddy, K., Kumar, R., Kumar, A. and Bhardwaj, A. (2021). Standardization of Seed Priming Techniques in Bitter Gourd (Momordica charantia L.). Biological Forum â€“ An International Journal, 13(3a): 279-284'),(3178,'105','Studies on Impact of Organic and Inorganic Fertilizers on Growth, Yield and Quality of Guava (Psidium guajava) Allahabad Safeda Under Sub Tropical Climatic Conditions','Jaiprakash*, V.M. Prasad, Vijay Bahadur and Dinesh','49 Studies on Impact of Organic and Inorganic Fertilizers on Growth, Yield and Quality of Guava _Psidium guajava_ Allahabad Safeda Under Sub Tropical Climatic Conditions JAIPRAKASH.pdf','',1,'The present investigation was carried out in the Farm Krishi Vigyan Kendra, Sangaria, Hanumangarh, Rajasthan during the month of July 2020 to March 2021. The experiment consists of 8 treatment combinations in a Randomized Block Design which are studied and replicate thrice in 5 Ã— 5 m2 spacing. Eight treatment combinations viz., T0 Control, T1 90% RDF + 10% FYM /Tree, T2 85% RDF + 15% FYM/Tree, T3 80% RDF + 20 % FYM/Tree, T4 75% RDF + 25% FYM /Tree, T5 70% RDF + 30% FYM /Tree, T6 65% RDF + 35% FYM/Tree and T7 60% RDF + 40 % FYM/Tree were applied during the research work on Guava. The treatment was done at vegetative growth stage and harvesting stage was calculated in each treatment which were selected in each plant. From the above finding it may be concluded that treatment T1 -90% RDF + 10% FYM/Tree recorded as best treatment in terms of better growth, yield and quality of 10 year old guava under sub tropical condition. This treatment can be considered most appropriate for integrated ','Guava, Organic Fertilizers, Inorganic Fertilizers, yield and quality.','It is concluded from the experiment that treatment T1 (90% RDF +10% FYM) followed by T2 (85% RDF + 15 % FYM) was found superior in terms of growth and higher yield and quality factors. In this investigation the treatment T1 (90% RDF +10% FYM) was found suitable for cultivation of guava orchard which gives production of 92.86 kg of fruits per tree.','-','Jaiprakash, Prasad, V.M., Bahadur, V. and Dinesh (2021). Studies on Impact of Organic and Inorganic Fertilizers on Growth, Yield and Quality of Guava (Psidium guajava) Allahabad Safeda Under Sub Tropical Climatic Conditions. Biological Forum â€“ An Inter'),(3179,'105','Study of Morphological and Seed Yield Architecture in Genotypes of Fenugreek (Trigonella foenum-graecum L.)','Sonika Parmar*, Dhanesh Kumar Raidas, Pooja Sahu and R. K. Jaiswal','50 Study of Morphological and Seed Yield Architecture in Genotypes of Fenugreek Trigonella foenum-graecum L. Sonika Parmar.pdf','',1,'The productivity of fenugreek is very low as it is often cultivated on marginal lands with poor management of soil fertility, irrigation, fertilizer and with little insect pest management. Further the seeds of improved varieties have limited availability; hence farmers are forced to use local materials for sowing which are variable in productivity and susceptible to various diseases. Considering the above points, there is a great scope to improve the productivity of this crop by varietal improvement and adopting the improved production technology in our country. The real yield potential of the crop can be exploited through varietal improvement program. Considering same present investigation, was conducted during the Rabi 2020-21 at Research farm Department of Horticulture, RAK College of Agriculture, Sehore (M.P.). This investigation was carried out on sixteen genotypes collected from different part of the country. The research experiment was laid out in Randomized Block Design with th','plant height, number of leaves, leaf area, leaf area index, germination percentage, pods per plant, seed yield. ','Thus it can be concluded from the result of present investigation that huge variation was noticed among the sixteen genotypes studied in this investigation for all the plant characteristics, growth and phenological parameters in fenugreek as well as yield parameters of fenugreek. The genotype Sehore-7 was found significantly superior as compared to all genotypes included in this study with respect to growth parameters, phenological parameters and yield parameters of fenugreek. ','-','Parmar, S., Raidas, D.K., Sahu, P. and Jaiswal, R.K. (2021). Study of Morphological and Seed Yield Architecture in Genotypes of Fenugreek (Trigonella foenum-graecum L.). Biological Forum â€“ An International Journal, 13(3a): 289-294.'),(3180,'105','Influence of Zinc Formulations on Yield, Economics of Maize Crop and Soil Zn Status','P. Malathi* and K.M. Sellamuthu','51 Influence of Zinc Formulations on Yield, Economics of Maize Crop and Soil Zn Status P. Malathi.pdf','',1,'To overcome the problem of low use efficiency of inorganic Zn fertilizers, new chelated Zn formulations were developed. Newly developed chelated Zn formulations TNAU Zn EDTA and TNAU Zn citrate were tested in comparison with ZnSO4 and commercial Zn EDTA for soil and foliar application in a field experiment with maize crop conducted during 2019 at Tamil Nadu Agricultural University, Coimbatore. Yield attributes, grain and stover yield were recorded. Economics of treatments was worked out. Significantly highest cob length (21.2 cm), number of grains per cob (269), 100 grain weight (41.2g), grain yield (7158 kg ha-1) and stover yield (12741 kg ha-1) were recorded in the treatment foliar spray of 0.5 % TNAU Zn EDTA (T10) which remained on par with the application of 1.5 kg Zn ha-1 as TNAU Zn EDTA (T4), foliar spray of 0.5 % TNAU Zn citrate (T11) and foliar spray of 0.5 % commercial Zn EDTA (T12). Soil application of 7.5 kg Zn ha-1 as ZnSO4 (T2) recorded significantly highest post harvest s','Maize, Zinc chelates, Yield, Economics, Soil zinc ','Foliar application of Zn fertilizers registered higher yield than soil application which might be due to the calcareous nature of the experimental soil. The treatment foliar spray of 0.5% TNAU Zn EDTA (T10) recorded highest yield attributes (cob length, no. of grains /cob, 100 grain weight), grain and stover yield, net income and B:C ratio which was comparable with foliar spray of 0.5% TNAU Zn citrate (T11).','-','Malathi, P. and Sellamuthu, K.M. (2021). Influence of Zinc Formulations on Yield, Economics of Maize Crop and Soil Zn Status. Biological Forum â€“ An International Journal, 13(3a): 295-299.'),(3182,'105','Response of Growth Hormones on Staghorn fern (Platycerium bifurcatum (Cav.) C.Chr.) Gametophytes under in vitro Condition','Shiva Sai Prasad*, Gopinath G., Sathyanarayana, B.N., Devakumar, A.S. and Veena, S.A.','52 Response of Growth Hormones on Staghorn fern _Platycerium bifurcatum Cav. C.Chr. Gametophytes under in vitro Condition Shiva Sai Prasad.pdf','',1,'Staghorn fern is an ornamental fern which is epiphytic in nature and reproduce through transformation of generation, which happens over a long time. The present study aims to reduce the transformation phase of gametophyte to sporophyte by the influence of growth hormones under in vitro condition. The gametophytes of staghorn fern (Platycerium bifurcatum (Cav.) C. Chr.) were subjected to three different growth hormones such as auxin, gibberlin and cytokinin at different concentrations to enhance the transformation in short time. The results revealed that, the treatment with auxin at 1.0 mg lâ€“1 BAP resulted in the higher transformation of gametophytes to sporophyte, but the cytokine in treated were further proliferated, without any transformation. However, gibberlins at 3.0 mg l-1 was found to be better with respect to broader leaves with taller sporophytes.','Platycerium bifurcatum (Cav.) C.Chr., Staghorn fern, gametophyte, sporophyte, auxin, gibberlin, cytokinin.','From the study it has been found that Staghorn fern needs stimuli for the alternation of generation. In the natural process, it was found to be taking much time for transformation from one stage to another, while by external application of different growth regulators have led to a result in reducing the transformation time and better development of sporophytes. It is clearly evident that the gametophytes do respond to growth hormones. And there is a greater scope in future for developing protocol for sporophytes development in shorter time and hardening of plantlets, which is an important need of the hour. ','-','Prasad, S.S., Gopinath G., Sathyanarayana, B.N., Devakumar, A.S. and Veena, S.A. (2021). Response of Growth Hormones on Staghorn fern (Platycerium bifurcatum (Cav.) C.Chr.) Gametophytes under in vitro Condition. Biological Forum â€“ An International Journ'),(3183,'105','Effect of Ultra-sonication on Bio indigo Dyeing on Silk','Mohd Talha Ansari, T. Shantibala*, Ashutosh Sahi, Amrita Thokchom, Tantalung Tatan, Ajaykumar K. M and Ng. Taibangnganbi Chanu','53 Effect of Ultra-sonication on Bio indigo Dyeing on Silk Dr. T. Shantibala.pdf','',1,'Bio Indigo dyestuffs used various types of reducing agents to convert dye into leuco form in different parts of clusters in the northeastern region. The bacterial, ultrasonic, electrochemical etc. reduction process is a promising method for the reduction of Bio indigo dyestuffs. These different types of reducing agents affect the different degrees of effluent load in our environment. Sodium dithionite is well established reducing agent used for both natural and synthetic indigo which leads to environmental pollution. \r\nThe present study was comprised of the different vatting processes used in combination with ultrasonication to assess the redox potential of the dye bath and dye uptake by the silk yarn & fabric. The use of an ultra-sonicator enhanced the reduction of bio-indigo dyes and improved dye exhaustion on the silk material. The fastness property of the dyed silk fabric was also improved with the use of an ultra-sonicator. However, treatment of bio-indigo dye with ultrasonication','Bio Indigo dyes, Silk yarn and Fabric, Sodium dithionite, Acetol K/S value','The use of ultra-sonicator enhanced the reduction of bio-indigo dyestuffs and better uptake on silk yarn. The fastness property of the silk fabric was also improved with the use of ultra-sonicator. However, vatting with acetol resulted in less reduction and poor dye uptake in silk fabric. Application of ultra-sonication incorporating with standard vatting in indigo dye improve overall performance and will require less amount of dye and reducing agents to obtain similar shades as compared to standard vatting process, which in turns could have economic benefit and lesser environmental pollution. Ultrasonic dyeing technique has also been widely adopted to decrease energy consumption and increase productivity in textile dyeing industry. Ultrasound-assisted dyeing treatment approved not only in increasing the dye uptake, but also in reducing the amount of dyestuff used. Therefore, ultrasonic energy application in dyeing improved environment impact by reducing consumption of supportive chemi','-','Ansari, Mohd T., Shantibala, T., Sahi, A., Thokchom, A., Tatan, T., Ajaykumar, K. M. and Ng. Taibangnganbi Chanu (2021). Effect of Ultra-sonication on Bio indigo Dyeing on Silk. Biological Forum â€“ An International Journal, 13(3a): 304-308.'),(3184,'105','Assessment of Physical Properties of Soils of Dhalai District, Tripura, India','Rody Darlong*, Narendra Swaroop, Arun Alfred David and Akshita Barthwal','54 Assessment of Physical Properties of Soils of Dhalai District, Tripura, India Rody Darlong.pdf','',1,'An experiment was conducted in the Department of Soil Science and Agricultural Chemistry, SHUATS, Prayagraj, (Uttar Pradesh) India during 2020-2021 aiming to assess the Physical properties of soil from different blocks of Dhalai district, Tripura, India. The data revealed that the dry color of the selected soil samples ranged from reddish yellow to light grey, whereas the wet color ranged from strong brown to brown. Sandy clay loam was found in most of the communities and it was dominated by textural classes. Soil bulk density ranged from 1.05 to 1.25 Mg m-3 in different villages. Soil particle density ranged from 2.22 to 3.33 Mg m-3. Pore space and water holding capacity were measured in percentages ranging from 45.45 to 68.82 percent and 48.38 to 77.56 percent, respectively. The specific gravity of the soils in several communities ranged from 1.66 to 2.78. There is no substantial difference in particle density due to depth, however, there is a considerable difference in particle size','Physical properties, soil analysis, bulk density, water holding capacity.','The soils of Dhalai might be considered to be in good physical condition. Due to the widespread adoption of organic farming in most agricultural fields, there are few variances in mean values. The soil texture is primarily Sandy clay loam, which is ideal for paddy and most other crops. The upper layer of the soil had a lighter shade, whilst the underlying layer had a darker shade. The bulk density values were extremely low and rose as the depth was raised. With depth, the particle density rose as well. Organic matter content is indicated by low specific gravity readings. High clay cohesion is indicated by good water holding capacity and pore space percentage, making Dhalai farms appropriate for paddy and a variety of other farmed crops and vegetables.','-','Darlong, R., Swaroop, N., David, A.A. and Barthwal, A. (2021). Assessment of Physical Properties of Soils of Dhalai District, Tripura, India. Biological Forum â€“ An International Journal, 13(3a): 309-313.'),(3185,'105','Impact of PSB and Vermicompost on Growth, Yield and Quality of Strawberry','G. Naga Yashasvi, V.K. Tripathi, Vineet Awasthi and Anushi','Impact of PSB and Vermicompost on Growth, Yield and Quality of Strawberry G. Naga Yashasvi.pdf','',1,'A trial was done during 2019-20 to study the impact of PSB and vermicompost on growth, yield and quality of strawberry. Nine treatments including two levels each of vermicompost (25 and 30 t/ha) and PSB (6 and 7 kg/ha) and their mixes along with one control, replicated thrice in randomized block design were used for the experimentation work. The cultivar used was Chandler. Five kg of well rotten FYM was supplied as a basal portion in every one of the treatments including control. Every one of the dosages of vermicompost and PSB were supplied when planting was done in the field. The consolidated use of vermicompost at 30 t/ha + PSB at 7 kg/ha significantly expanded the height of plant (14.91 cm), number of leaves (57.00), crown (6.09) and runners (4.57) per plant, though the most extreme number of flowers (35.01), fruits set (37.12) per plant with an expanded duration of harvesting (69.37 days) and the minimum number of days taken to produce first flower (62.01 days) with significantly ','Strawberry, PSB, Vermicompost, Vegetative growth, Flowering, Quality, Yield.','From the current experimentation, it is securely presumed that joined use of vermicompost at 30 t/ha + PSB at 7 kg/ha fundamentally expanded the tallness of plant (14.91 cm), number of leaves (57.00), crowns (6.09) and runners (4.57) per plant, while the greatest number of flowers (35.01), fruits set (37.12) per plant with an expanded span of harvesting (69.37 days) and the minimum number of days taken to produce first flower (62.01 days) with significantly higher yield (256.24 g/plant) were recorded with vermicompost at 30 t/ha + PSB at 7 kg/ha fertilized plants. Plants treated with vermicompost at 30 t/ha + PSB at 7 kg/ha also produced the berries with the greatest length (4.23 cm), width (2.68 cm), weight (9.72 g), TSS (9.06Â°Brix), total sugars (8.19%), ascorbic acid (56.40 mg/100g edible part) with least titratable acidity (0.60%) in contrast with different other treatments under north Indian plains.','-','Yashasvi, G.N., Tripathi, V.K., Awasthi, V. and Anushi (2021). Impact of PSB and Vermicompost on Growth, Yield and Quality of Strawberry. Biological Forum â€“ An International Journal, 13(3a): 314-318.'),(3186,'106','A Detailed Analysis of Applying the K Nearest Neighbour Algorithm for Detection of Breast Cancer','Somya Singh, Aditi Sneh and Vandana Bhattacharjee*','1 A Detailed Analysis of Applying the K Nearest Neighbour Algorithm for Detection of Breast Cancer Vandana Bhattacharjee.pdf','',1,'','','','',''),(3189,'99','Contributions of SECI in Characteristics of Knowledge Sharing and Learning Effectiveness: Exploring amidst Higher Education Students','R. Hemalatha*, V. Lavanya and B. Karthik','Contributions of SECI in Characteristics of Knowledge Sharing and Learning Effectiveness Exploring amidst Higher Education Students R.pdf','',1,'','','','',''),(3190,'106','Nicotinium Dichromate Oxidation of Ãžara-nitroacetophenone','Munauwar Ali and Nagmani Manikpuri','2 Nicotinium Dichromate Oxidation of Ãžara-nitroacetophenone Munauwar Ali.pdf','',1,'','','','',''),(3191,'105','Energy usage and Economic Analysis of Pigeonpea Alternate to Cotton System under Semiarid Conditions of Telangana','G. Veeranna, Ch. Pallavi*, P. Jagan Mohan Rao and P. Raghu Rami Reddy','56 Energy Usage and Economic Analysis of Pigeonpea Alternate to Cotton System under Semiarid Conditions of Telangana G. Veeranna.pdf','',1,'The aim of the study is assessment of the energy requirements and economics was carried out at the during the year of 2017-18 and 2018-19 involving four plant geometries under rainfed and one life saving irrigation were taken up in pigeonpea (medium duration) under semiarid conditions at Warangal, Telangana, India. Results revealed that pigeonpea cultivated in square seeding (180 Ã— 60 cm), the net profit from pigeonpea was `47 Ã— 103 ha-1 under rainfed conditions compared to rainfed cotton, while pigeonpea cultivated under one protective irrigation at bud initiation stage gave `65 Ã— 103 ha-1 more net profit than the irrigated cotton (irrigation at boll development stage). Pigeonpea and cotton systems were subjected to energy use and out put assessment, net return of energy and income.The highest energy use efficiency (2.88) and net energy (15771 MJ ha-1) and energy productivity (0.20 kg MJ-1) while, lowest energy intensiveness (0.32 MJ `-1) and specific energy (5.11 MJ kg-1) were ','Critical stages, pigeonpea, energetics, spacing, cotton, irrigation.','The energy use efficiency, specific energy, energy intensiveness,energy productivity, net energy and of pigeonpea production system were 2.12, 6.93 MJ kg-1, 0.34 MJ `-1, 0.14 kg MJ-1 and 9351 MJ ha-1 under rainfed conditions respectively. The results indicate that pigeonpea production is efficient system in terms of energy consumption. While, 0.79, 14.99 MJ kg-1, 0.47 MJ `-1, 0.07 kg MJ-1 and -3630 MJ ha-1 of energy use efficiency, specific energy, energy intensiveness, energy productivity, net energy for cotton production system under rainfed conditions. Thus, indicating that the pigeonpea production system can replace cotton production system as it is with best fit crop under rainfed conditions producing increased the seed output, net profit, net energy yield, ultimately increased energy use efficiency of inputs.','-','Veeranna, G., Pallavi, Ch., Rao, P.J.M. and Reddy, P.R.R. (2021). Energy Usage and Economic Analysis of Pigeonpea Alternate to Cotton System under Semiarid Conditions of Telangana. Biological Forum â€“ An International Journal, 13(3a): 319-324.'),(3192,'105','Study on Effect of Pinching and Organic Manures on Growth, Flowering and yield of Dahlia (Dahlia variabilis L.) cv. Red Symphony','Abdul Rahman M.*, V.M. Prasad, Vijay Bahadur and Urfi Fatmi','57 Study on Effect of Pinching and Organic Manures on Growth, Flowering and yield of Dahlia Dahlia variabilis L. cv. Red Symphony Abdul Rahman.pdf','',1,'An experiment was conducted in Research Field, Department of Horticulture, Sam Higginbottom University of Agriculture, Technology and Sciences, Prayagraj, during November, 2020 to March, 2021 to find out effect of pinching and Organic manures on growth, flowering and yield of Dahlia (Dahlia variabilis L.) cv. Red symphony. The seedlings were planted at a spacing of 60 cm Ã— 80 cm from row to row and plant to plant to accommodate six plants per 1.8 meter square area. The experiment was laid out with thirteen treatments replicated thrice in Randomized Block Design. Based on the present investigation it is concluded that the treatment T10 Pinching 40 DAT + Poultry manure (3t/ha) followed byT6 Pinching 40 DAT + Vermicompost (5t/ha) and T2 Pinching 40 DAT + FYM (10t/ha). Found best in terms of plant growth parameters, flower and yield and tuber yield of Dahlia. However, while the experiment was conducted, it was observed that flower size reduced and failed to attain an expected large bloom ','Pinching, Organic manures, growth, flowering, yield and Dahlia (Dahlia variabilis L.) cv. Red symphony.','Based on the present investigation it is concluded that the treatment T10 Pinching 40 DAT+ Poultry manure (3t/ha) followed by T6 Pinching 40 DAT + Vermicompost (5t/ha) and T2 Pinching 40 DAT + FYM (10t/ha). Found best in terms of plant growth parameters, flower and yield and tuber yield of Dahlia.','-','Abdul Rahman M., Prasad, V.M., Bahadur, V. and Fatmi, U. (2021). Study on Effect of Pinching and Organic Manures on Growth, Flowering and yield of Dahlia (Dahlia variabilis L.) cv. Red Symphony. Biological Forum â€“ An International Journal, 13(3a): 325-'),(3193,'105','Impact of Pre and Post Herbicides Treatments on Growth and Bulb Yield Parameters of Garlic (Allium sativum L.)','Deepesh Kumar Ahirwar*, Dhanesh Kumar Raidas, Ghanshyam Bamaniya, S.A. Ali and S.R. Ramgiry','58 Impact of Pre and Post Herbicides Treatments on Growth and Bulb Yield Parameters of Garlic _Allium sativum L._ Deepesh Kumar Ahirwar.pdf','',1,'Weeds are the most important biotic constraints to garlic production. Weed in garlic field are worldwide problem and losses due to weed were as high as 72.5%. The main problem for farmers in garlic cultivation is weed control, which occurs mainly during the vegetative growth stage of the crop. Since, labour availability to manual weeding and higher wages, it is necessary to have the strategy of conventional hand weeding and chemical control of weeds in appropriate time to attain target yield and economic benefit. In this view, field experiments were conducted at Fruit Research Station Intkhedi Bhopal, RAK College of Agriculture, Sehore (M.P.) during the Rabi season, 2017-18. The experiments were laid out in RBD and replicated thrice. The weed management options viz., pre and post emergence herbicide applications in different doses and time with conventional hand weeding. The trials were also compared with control plot (without hand weeding and without use of herbicides). Results indica','plant height, number of leaves, weeds, neck thickness, clove diameter, bulb yield','As a result, in this study it has been found that to achieve good bulb yield and yield quality, it is best to apply two hand weeding 30 and 60 DAS and in addition to treatment oxyfluorfen 23.5% EC 250 g a.i. hectare-1 (pre-emergence) + one hand weeding after 30 DAS and Oxadiargyl 80% WP 100 g a.i. hectare-1 (pre-emergence) + one hand weeding after 30 DAS can also achieve good bulb yield and yield quality as compared to other treatments. Intercultural activities in the soil make the soil brittle, allowing sufficient moisture and air to flow through it to aid plant growth. The crop also benefited from two hand weeding done at 30 and 60 days after sowing in the experiment. Therefore higher bulb yield and lesser weed infestation as well as maximum gross and net return were recorded by cultural practices and pre-emergence herbicides treatments. Thus appropriate choice for weed control in garlic would be an integration of cultural and herbicidal control combination for boosting the Garlic pr','-','Ahirwar, D.K., Raidas D.K., Bamaniya, G., Ali, S.A. and Ramgiry, S.R. (2021). Impact of Pre and Post Herbicides Treatments on Growth and Bulb Yield Parameters of Garlic (Allium sativum L.). Biological Forum â€“ An International Journal, 13(3a): 331-336.'),(3194,'105','Effect of Macro and Micronutrients on Establishment of Sweet Orange (Citrus sinensis) c.v. Mosambi','Shivam Chaurasia*, Devi Singh and V.M. Prasad','59 Effect of Macro and Micronutrients on Establishment of Sweet Orange _Citrus sinensis_ c.v. Mosambi Shivam Chaurasia.pdf','',1,'The present investigation was carried out during the year 2020-2021 was undertaken at the Central Research Field, SHUATS, Prayagraj. The experiment was laid out in Randomized Block Design (RBD) with 10 treatments and 3 replications they are as follows : T0 : RDF (Control), T1 : ZnSO4 2% + RDF (50%), T2 : FeSO4 2% + RDF (50%), T3 : CuSO4 2% + RDF (50%), T4 : ZnSO4 1% + FeSO4 1% + RDF (50%), T5 : ZnSO4 1% + CuSO4 1% + RDF (75%), T6 : ZnSO4 2% + FeSO4 2% + RDF (50%), T7 : ZnSO4 2% + CuSO4 2% + RDF (75%), T8 : ZnSO4 1% + FeSO4 1% + CuSO4 1% + RDF (75%) and T9 : ZnSO4 2% + FeSO4 2% + CuSO4 2% + RDF (100%). The main objective is to find out the most suitable treatment combination on plant growth and establishment of Sweet Orange (Citrus sinensis) c.v. Mosambi and to assess the effective treatment combination on survival percentage of Sweet Orange (Citrus sinensis) c.v. Mosambi. From the present investigation it is found that the treatment T9 ZnSO4 2% + FeSO4 2% + CuSO4 2% + RDF (100%) was su','Sweet orange, Mosambi, Macro and Micronutrients, Establishment.','From the present investigation, it is concluded that T9 ZnSO4 2% + FeSO4 2% + CuSO4 2% + RDF (100%) resulted in the highest vegetative growth parameters like survival percentage, plant height, number of leaves per plant, number of branches per plant, leaf area, plant spread, chlorophyll content in leaves and stem girth.','-','Chaurasia, S., Singh, D. and Prasad, V.M. (2021). Effect of Macro and Micronutrients on Establishment of Sweet Orange (Citrus sinensis) c.v. Mosambi. Biological Forum â€“ An International Journal, 13(3a): 337-340.'),(3195,'105','Effect of Sowing Methods and Nitrogen Management on Yield and Agro- metrological Indices on Wheat (Triticum aestivum L.)','Nikhil Raghuvanshi, B.N. Singh and Vikash Kumar*','60 Effect of Sowing Methods and Nitrogen Management on Yield and Agro- metrological Indices on Wheat _Triticum aestivum L._ Vikash Kumar.pdf','',1,'Wheat is more sensitive toward climate change. Reasing temperature causing yield reduction specially in late sown wheat. Consider this fact a field experiment was conducted during rabi seasons of 2017-18 and 2018-19 at Agronomical research farm, Acharya Narendra Deva University of Agriculture and Technology, Ayodhya, India, to study on agro-meteorological indices, grain and straw yields and their relationships with each other, the experiment comprised of four sowing methods viz. broadcasting sowing (Bs), line sowing (Ls), furrow irrigation ridge bed (FIRB) and criss cross sowing (20 Ã— 20 cm) (Cs) in main plot and five nitrogen managements treatments viz., control (N0), 50% N as basal + 25% N after first irrigation + 25% N after second irrigation (N1), 50% N as basal + 50 % N after first irrigation (N2), 25% N as basal + 25% N after second irrigation + 50% through FYM as basal (N3), 25% N as basal + 75% through FYM as basal (N4) was laid out with three replication. The agro-meteorologi','Wheat, sowing methods, nitrogen, agro-meteorological indices, yield.','The above findings concluded that higher yield, accumulated heat units, HTU, and heat use efficiency were recorded with FIRB. Among the nitrogen management, N1 recorded higher yield, GDD, HTU, and heat use efficiency. It indicated that sowing methods and nitrogen management responded positively to yield, GDD, HTU, and heat use efficiency. Besides, application of agro-meteorological indices provides the evidence correlated to effect of temperature and solar radiation on the crop phenology, yield and heat energy consumption in wheat crop.','-','Raghuvanshi N., Singh, B.N. and Kumar, V. (2021). Effect of Sowing Methods and Nitrogen Management on Yield and Agro- metrological Indices on Wheat (Triticum aestivum L.). Biological Forum â€“ An International Journal, 13(3a): 341-347.'),(3196,'93','The impact of Corona Virus (COVID-19) on displaced People in India ','Dr. Ankur Pare ','7 The impact of Corona Virus _COVID-19_ on displaced People in India Ankur Pare.pdf','',1,'','','','',''),(3197,'93','Perspective of Displacement over Development','Dr. Ankur Pare ','8 Perspective of Displacement over Development Ankur Pare.pdf','',1,'On the one hand, every political policy, economic, as well as development initiative provides advantages to some segments of the population, while on the other, it brings misery and despair to others. Millions of people are moved and displaced from their residences, property and livelihoods each year to provide space for large-scale development projects such as dams, reservoir, power stations, and highways. â€œDevelopment-induced displacementâ€ is the term for this type of forced migration. People have been uprooted not merely from their homes, but also from homelands to which they may have ties from their ancestors.Displaced persons lose much, such as their houses, their productive resources, culture as well as livelihood, environmental circumstances suited to their abilities and habits, community networks as well as a sense of belongingness.The extent of their deprivation, affliction, and pains is determined by the challenges they experience and the resources they have access to in ','Development; Displacement; Land; Projects; People','','',''),(3198,'105','Effect of Foliar Application of Growth Regulators and Nutrients on Fruit Retention and Yield of acid Lime (Citrus aurantifolia Swingle)','Yamini, A.D. Huchche, Ashish Dhongade, A. Thirugnanavel and Vijay Kumar','61 Effect of Foliar Application of Growth Regulators and Nutrients on Fruit Retention and Yield of acid Lime _Citrus aurantifolia Swingle_ Yamini Sapaha.pdf','',1,'Plant growth regulators and nutrients are common in yield, production and quality attributes. In this experiments applying some novel plant growth regulators like, Jasmonic acid (JA) and brassino steroides (BR) are hormones involved in the regulation of many processes in plants and act (when applied as a pre-harvest treatment) to increase fruit bioactive compounds with yield potential. However, there is less literature available regarding the effect of pre-harvest treatment on citrus fruit yield attributes and production, which was the aim of the present study. The detailed knowledge of this novel plant growth regulator (brassino steroids/jasmonic acid) has become extremely important for various researchers, stakeholders and commercial growers. A field study was carried out on the effects of foliar application of growth regulators and nutrients on fruit retention and yield of acid lime (Citrus aurantifolia Swingle) on seven years old acid lime trees cv. Phule Sharbati with thirteen tre','Foliar application, growth regulators, nutrients, fruit retention, yield and physical parameters of acid lime (Citrus aurantifolia Swingle)','Foliar application of T10- 2,4-D @ 15 ppm + KNO3 1% notably reduced fruit drop and enhanced fruit retention which significantly contributed to final fruit retention and fruit yield.\r\nThe foliar spray of T3-Jasmonicacid @ 3 ppm in February, March and April in acid lime enhanced yield attributing fruit characters such as fruit set%, number of fruits plant-1, fruit breadth, fruit volume and titratable acidity, which ultimately increased yield plant-1. The application of GA3 @ 15 ppm + urea 1% increased the fruit length, number of seeds/fruit, TSS, ascorbic acid, total sugars, reducing sugars whereas T6-Brassinosteroid @ 15 ppm recorded maximum fruit weight. \r\n','-','Yamini, Huchche, A.D., Dhongade, A., Thirugnanavel, A. and Kumar, V. (2021). Effect of Foliar Application of Growth Regulators and Nutrients on Fruit Retention and Yield of acid Lime (Citrus aurantifolia Swingle). Biological Forum â€“ An International Jou'),(3199,'105','Consequence of Weed Management on Nutrient Uptake by Finger Millet in Transplanted Condition','Mohammad Rashid Ashrafi, M.K. Singh, Ajay Kumar*, Kanhaiya Lal, Manish Raj, S. Tyagi and Shweta Shambhavi','62 Consequence of Weed Management on Nutrient Uptake by Finger Millet in Transplanted Condition.pdf','',1,'Finger millet is important rained crop having rich source of minerals and slow initial growth makes finger millets crop more prone to weed infestation which leads to high crop-weed competition. So weed management practices become important practice for nutrient uptake and yield of crop and this research was design on focusing weed management. Afield experiment was design at research farmland, Bihar Agricultural University, Sabour, Bhagalpur to know consequence of weed management in transplanted Finger millet. Experiment was design in randomized block design (RBD) with eleven treatment and three replication viz.T1 (Weedy check) (control), T2 (Hoeing at 20 and 40 DAT), T3 (Pendimethalin @ 750 g a.i. ha-1 as pre-emergence, T4 2, 4- D @ 750 g a.i. ha-1 as post-emergence), T5 (Bispyribac sodium @ 20 g a.i. per ha as post-emergence), T6 (Pendimethalin @ 750 g a.i. ha-1 as pre-emergence fb2, 4-D @ 750 g a.i. ha-1 as post- emergence), T7 (Pendimethalin @750 g a.i. ha-1 as pre-emergence fb Bis','Weed management, Finger millet, Nutrient uptake, Yield, Crop-weed competition.','Based on above facts and figure weed free treatment results in effective control of weeds but its result in highest cost of cultivation due more number of labour engaged in weeding so among different weed management practice the best treatment recoded during trail is sequential application of pendimethalin @750 g a.i. ha-1 / pretilachlor @1000 g a.i. ha-1 as pre-emergence fb bispyribac sodium @ 20 g a.i. ha-1 as post- emergence for higher yield, lower nutrient uptake by weeds and effective weed control in transplanted finger millet','-','Ashrafi, M.R., Singh, M.K., Kumar, A., Lal, K., Raj, M., Tyagi, S. and Shambhavi, S. (2021). Consequence of Weed Management on Nutrient Uptake by Finger Millet in Transplanted Condition. Biological Forum â€“ An International Journal, 13(3a): 355-359.\r\n\r'),(3200,'105','Effect of Date of Sowing and different Levels of Irrigation on the Phenology of Mustard Cultivars','Krishna Kumar Sudhansu, Deb Kumar Das and Joydeep Mukherjee','63 Effect of Date of Sowing and different Levels of Irrigation on the Phenology of Mustard Cultivars Krishna Kumar Sudhansu.pdf','',1,'Indian mustard (Brassica juncea L.) is an important oilseed crop, grown mainly in the North-West plains of India during rabi season (October to March). Soil moisture deficit and terminal heat stress are common problems during growing season due to low rainfall and delayed sowing, respectively. A field experiment was conducted during the rabi season of 2020-21 at IARI farm with three mustard cultivars, viz., Pusa Vijay, Pusa Mustard-21 and Pusa Bold in Split plot design to study the influence of irrigation levels and date of sowing on crop phenological stages/events of Indian mustard cultivars. Observations on crop Phenology were recorded twice a week at regular interval through keen observation on the field physically. The challenge during observing phenology was accounting every minute observation in the field regularly. Each date of delayed sowing progressively and significantly decreased the days taken to 50% flowering and maturity. There was delay of 15 to 20 days to attend 50 % ','Indian Mustard, 50 % flowering, Moisture deficiet, Pusa Bold','The time of sowing and different level of irrigation affect the phenology of the crop. The crop duration (emergence to harvest) reduced as there was delay in sowing and application of one irrigation instead of two irrigation. Optimum time of sowing and irrigation is necessary for proper growth and development of mustard crop.','-','Sudhansu, K.K., Das, D. K. and Mukherjee, J. (2021). Effect of Date of Sowing and different Levels of Irrigation on the Phenology of Mustard Cultivars. Biological Forum â€“ An International Journal, 13(3a): 360-363.'),(3201,'105','Effect of Different Techniques (Staggered Sowing, Planting Ratio and Supplementary Pollination) on Seed yield of Hybrid Rice (PRH-10) in Bihar Condition','Sushmita* and Mukesh Kumar','64 Effect of Different Techniques _Staggered Sowing, Planting Ratio and Supplementary Pollination_ on Seed yield of Hybrid Rice _PRH-10_ in Bihar Condition Sushmita.pdf','',1,'The experiments were conducted during Kharif 2017 and 2018 for seed production of hybrid rice PRH-10 at Sabour, Bhagalpur (Bihar) condition. The seed production of hybrid rice is very much dependent on local environmental conditions besides the flowering natures of its parental lines. Based on 50% flowering, the parental line, which includes seed parent Pusa 6A and pollen parent PRR78, had a considerable difference in growth duration and flowering time. The accomplishment of synchronization of seed parent and pollen parent flowering is one of the most important milestones in this process. It was accomplished in the current experiment using the growth duration difference method. Other major variables for increased seed setting percent and hybrid seed output were days to 50% blooming, panicle exertion, and flag leaf angle. Several methods of supplementary pollination under various staggered sowing and planting ratio, had been practiced to find out maximum seed setting percent and hybrid ','Pollen parent, Seed parent, Supplementary Pollination & Hybrid.','According to the findings of the preceding investigations, successful production of hybrid rice PRH 10 in Sabour (Bihar) conditions is required. GA3 application at the 5% flowering stage increased panicle effort dramatically and positively, either alone or in combination with flag leaf cutting. Seed setting percentage was increased by 5.04 percent (9.25; 554.04 kg/ha) over control (4.21; 226.74 kg/ha) with supplemental pollination by rope pulling alone. GA3 was determined to be the optimum treatment for hybrid seed yield and its contributing features such as panicle length, panicle exertion %, and spikelet opening when combined with flag leaf cutting and rope pulling.The effect of planting ratio was also found significant. Seed setting percent were significantly higher in planting ratio 2:6, while increasing the planting ratio, percentage seed setting decreases. However, total seed yield per ha were recorded highest in planting ratio 2:8.','-','Sushmita and Kumar, M. (2021). Effect of Different Techniques (Staggered Sowing, Planting Ratio and Supplementary Pollination) on Seed yield of Hybrid Rice (PRH-10) in Bihar Condition. Biological Forum â€“ An International Journal, 13(3a): 364-369.'),(3202,'105','Comparative Host Range and Molecular Studies of Papaya Ringspot Virus','U. Premchand, R.K. Mesta*, M.P. Basavarajappa, Sarvamangala Cholin, Y.S. Mahesh, M.A. Waseem and D.P. Prakash','65 Comparative Host Range and Molecular Studies of Papaya Ringspot Virus U.pdf','',1,'Papaya ring spot virus isolate from Bagalkot, Karnataka was evaluated for host range and molecular studies using artificial inoculation and PCR based methods. PRSV-P isolate had a limited host range. The experimental results showed that PRSV isolate was pathogenic to Carica papaya (Caricacea) along with Chenopodium quinoa (Chenopodiaceae) and Cucumis sativus (Cucurbitaceae) producing local lesion and mosaic symptoms respectively. However apathogenic to Phaseolus vulgaris (Fabaceae). Datura stramonium, Datura metel, Capsicum annum cv. California Wonder, Nicotiana tabacum and Nicotiana glutinosa (all Solanaceae). ','Carica papaya, Chenopodium quinoa, Cucumis sativus and Papaya ringspot virus','PRSV isolate was pathogenic to Carica papaya (Caricacea) along with Chenopodium quinoa (Chenopodiaceae) and Cucumis sativus (Cucurbitaceae) producing local lesion and mosaic symptoms respectively. However apathogenic to Phaseolus vulgaris (Fabaceae). Datura stramonium, Datura metel, Capsicum annum cv. California Wonder, Nicotiana tabacum and Nicotiana glutinosa (all Solanaceae).','-','Premchand, U., Mesta, R.K., Basavarajappa, M.P., Cholin, S., Mahesh, Y.S., Waseem, M.A. and Prakash, D.P. (2021). Comparative Host Range and Molecular Studies of Papaya Ringspot Virus. Biological Forum â€“ An International Journal, 13(3a): 370-373.'),(3203,'105','Impact of Different Insecticidal Modules on Pod Borer Complex in Pigeonpea','M. Sreekanth*, G.M.V. Prasada Rao, M.S.M. Lakshmi and M.V. Ramana','66 Impact of Different Insecticidal Modules on Pod Borer Complex in Pigeonpea M.pdf','',1,'Ravages by different pod borers during flowering and pod formation stage of pigeonpea are the major bottlenecks in attainment of desired productivity levels of pigeonpea along with sucking pests like jassids and cow bugs in severe case. The pod borer complex comprising, gram pod borer, Helicoverpa armigera, spotted pod borer, Maruca vitrata and pod fly, Melanagromyza obtusa cause a yield loss up to 60 per cent. Seven insecticidal modules along with an untreated control were evaluated in randomized block design (RBD) at Regional Agricultural Research Station, Lam, Guntur for three years i.e., from 2015-16 to 2017-18 on redgram var. ICPL 85063 (Lakshmi) under rain-fed conditions. The results revealed that insecticidal module consisting of chlorantraniliprole, followed by flubendiamide and dimethoate at 15 days interval starting from 50% flowering stage of the crop was found effective and recorded low pod damage due to H. armigera, M. vitrata and M. obtusa (2.5, 4.9 and 7.7 per cent pod d','Cost benefit ratio, Insecticides, Pigeonpea, Pod borers, pod borer complex.','The present findings conclude that application of chlorantraniliprole 18.5 SC @ 0.3 ml/l, followed by flubendiamide 480 SC @ 0.2 ml/l and dimethoate 30 EC @ 2.0 ml/l at 15 days interval starting from 50% flowering stage of the crop will contain the pod borer complex on pigeonpea with more yield and high monetary returns. Further, it was suggested that the future scope in the research will be on the evaluation of new combination molecules or bio-pesticides to safe guard the environment and also to delay the development of resistance. ','-','Sreekanth, M., Rao, G.M.V.P., Lakshmi, M.S.M. and Ramana, M.V. (2021). Impact of Different Insecticidal Modules on Pod Borer Complex in Pigeonpea. Biological Forum â€“ An International Journal, 13(3a): 374-379.'),(3204,'105','Study on Cropping Pattern and Major Crop Yield Performance in Watershed Areas of Koppal District in Karnataka','Vaijanatha*, G.N. Kulkarni and R.H. Patil','67 Study on Cropping Pattern and Major Crop Yield Performance in Watershed Areas of Koppal District in Karnataka Vaijanatha 1343.pdf','',1,'The biggest crisis that the world faces in the 21st century is the crisis of water. Water is indeed a renewable resource but, in any given year, it is not inexhaustible. The crisis of water has affected the lives of millions of the farmers who constitute sizeable portion of the population. As per the water scarcity map published by International Water Management Institute (IWMI), major part of India is going to face physical water scarcity while, the remaining part is going to experience economic water scarcity by 2025. Indian economy and rural employment are mainly dependent on agriculture, as it contributes about 13.50 per cent to the countryâ€™s GDP and 60 per cent to the employment. The quality of natural resources in the rainfed ecosystem is gradually declining due to over exploitation, and suffer from bio-physical and socio-economic constraints affecting the productivity of crops and livestock. To provide stability to farm income during drought and to utilize the marginal lands, ','Watershed, Major crops, Performance, Feasible, soil depth and soil nutrient status.','The study was focused on cropping pattern and performance of the major crops cultivated in watershed areas of Koppal district of Karnataka Cropping pattern on various basis were studied such as soil depth and soil nutrient content of the soil. The crops like Hybrid maize, hybrid bajra, chick pea, groundnut and sunflower were identified as the major crops. It can be concluded from the result obtained that the Hybrid maize, bajra, chickpea and sunflower were showed better yield performance at higher depth more than 150 cm and also showed positive significant with respect to increased range of nutrients content in soil but in terms of productivity Bt cotton, greengram, hybrid maize and hybrid sorghum were highly unstable. Hence, care should be taken in these crops.','-','Vaijanatha, Kulkarni, G.N. and Patil, R.H. (2021). Study on Cropping Pattern and Major Crop Yield Performance in Watershed Areas of Koppal District in Karnataka. Biological Forum â€“ An International Journal, 13(3a): 380-388.'),(3205,'105','An Overview of the Various Methods for Diagnosis, Treatment, and Controlling of Trypanosomiasis in Domestic, Pet, and Wild Animals','Neeraj Kumar, M.K. Verma*, Javid Ur Rahman, Anand Kumar Singh, Sachin Patidar and Jayshree Jakhar','68 An Overview of the Various Methods for Diagnosis, Treatment, and Controlling of Trypanosomiasis in Domestic, Pet, and Wild Animals M.K. Verma.pdf','',1,'Trypanosomiasis is an infectious haemoprotozoan disease that affects various domestic, pet, and wild animals with the most common clinical manifestations being intermittent fever, wasting, anaemia, oedema of dependent parts, nervous symptoms, and occasionally abortion. The disease is transmitted (biologically or mechanically) through the biting of flies. Microscopic examination, Micro-haematocrit centrifugation technique, animal inoculation, DNA detection by PCR, CFT, and ELISA are some of the diagnostic procedures available, ranging from traditional to molecular. In this review, we will cover the impact of trypanosomiasis on domestic, pet and wild animals, as well as transmission, pathogenesis, control, and prevention. In addition, the paper provides an update on the impact of trypanosomosis on erythrocyte homeostasis and infection-associated anemia.','Trypanosomiasis, T. evensi, etiology, host range and susceptibility, prevalence, transmission, pathogenesis, clinical signs, diagnosis, treatment, and control','Surra is present all over the world. Due to the suitable environment, it enhances mobility and prolificacy of vector population. It is still unclear how T. evansi expressed a surprising and spectacular ability to develop in an extensive range of hosts leading to a no less spectacular, potentially unlimited, geographical distribution. Pathogenicity of trypanosome is still unclear what is the exact mechanism of anaemia due to trypanosomiasis, its need further research. In India, surra is a major disease of camel, buffalo, horse and dogs. On cattle population, more attention is necessary to surra as it may cause severe economic loss. The incidence of surra in cattle and buffaloes in India has been underestimated because the infection is usually subclinical in them usually and buffaloes may act as reservoirs. Vector control is also a challenging task in India. Vector files can be controlled by an effective and economic insecticide. This field also requires some research to find an alternat','-','Kumar, N., Verma, M.K., Rahman, J.U., Singh, A.K., Patidar, S. and Jakhar, J. (2021). An Overview of the Various Methods for Diagnosis, Treatment, and Controlling of Trypanosomiasis in Domestic, Pet, and Wild Animals. Biological Forum â€“ An International'),(3206,'105','Integrated Management of Foot Rot in Betel Vine under Rayalaseema Zone of Andhra Pradesh','C. Ruth*, B. Srinivasulu, G. Chandra Mohan Reddy and K. Swarajalakshmi','69 Integrated Management of Foot Rot in Betel Vine under Rayalaseema Zone of Andhra Pradesh Ruth C.pdf','',1,'A field study on integrated management of foot rot in betel vine was undertaken to find out the response of bio agents and fungicides in management of foot rot disease in betel vine crop during 2016-17 and 2017-18. The experiment was laid out in Randomized Block Design with eight treatments and replicated thrice. Experimental findings indicate that the pathogen isolated from root and petiole portions of the infected plant and identified as phytophthora from root and petiole portions. Further isolated another pathogen Rhizoctonia bataticola in betel vine field of chinavorumpadu village of YSR Kadapa dt. of Andhra Pradesh. All the treatments viz. application of Trichoderma harzianum@ 5kg/ha (Oct-Dec) along with FYM + Neemcake @500 kg/ha, spraying of Fosetyl AL @ 0.2% + Drenching of Potassium Phosphonate @ 0.3%, soil application of Bacillus subtilis @ 5kg/ha), soil application of Consortium (IIHR) @ 12.5kg/ha. in 1250kg FYM/ha, soil drenching with Bordeaux mixture (1%) and soil applicatio','IDM, Betel vine, foot rot, Phytophthora, Rhizoctonia bataticola.','The present study concluded that application of biological formulation along with the application organic manures significantly reducing the foot rot disease in betel vine crop. However, the Soil application of Consortium (IISR) PGPR capsule @5 capsules/ha recommended for the effective foot rot control in Rayalaseema zone of Andhra Pradesh. Therefore, the use of biological control agents is recommended for the integrated management of Phytophthora foot rot of betel vine for sustainable leaf production as well as to avoid the possibility of health risks due to consumption of betel leaf polluted with the fungicides.','-','Ruth, C., Srinivasulu, B., Reddy, G.C.M. and Swarajalakshmi, K. (2021). Integrated Management of Foot Rot in Betel Vine under Rayalaseema Zone of Andhra Pradesh. Biological Forum â€“ An International Journal, 13(3a): 400-405.'),(3207,'105','Optimization of Enzyme Assisted Juice Extraction from Banana','Guddu Kumar, Vinay Kumar*, Kumari Suvidha, Manish Raj and M.A. Aftab','70 Optimization of Enzyme Assisted Juice Extraction from Banana Manish Raj.pdf','',1,'25.58% production of banana is contributed from India. 40-45 percent of fruits are detoriated due to improper post-harvest management. To rectify such problem we need to reduce convert the excess produce into value added products. The health conscious peoples are demanding much more for the juices. Pulpy nature of banana fruits makes the juice extraction difficult task because the pulp does not contain enough liquid to be converted into juice without the addition of more water, which changes the consistency of the juice from a sticky, lumpy mass to a free-flowing juicy nature. Adding enzymatic treatments to the banana pulp causes it to liquefy, resulting in free-flowing banana juice. The pectinase enzyme present in the banana variety â€˜Grand Naineâ€™ catalyses the breakdown of pectin found in the cell wall of the plant cell, speeding up the juice extraction process. It raised filterability and minimized viscosity. The goal is to assess the physicochemical and nutritional aspects of re','Banana, TSS, Viscosity, fresh juice, Enzyme. ','The current studyâ€™s results were analysed using the Completely Randomized Design (CRD) statistical approach. The physicochemical quality parameters of the juices derived from the pectinase enzyme-treated banana pulp were investigated. The total soluble solid increased as the enzyme concentration and incubation time were increased. During storage for up to 60 days, total soluble solid (TSS) increased dramatically, although total viscosity dropped. In the control treatment, the juice had a high viscosity (T9). During storage, the overall sensory quality deteriorated.','-','Kumar, G., Kumar, V., Suvidha, K., Raj, M. and Aftab, M.A. (2021). Optimization of Enzyme Assisted Juice Extraction from Banana. Biological Forum â€“ An International Journal, 13(3a): 406-409.'),(3208,'105','Assessment of Bioefficacy of Potential Fungicides and Biocontrol agents for Efficient Management of Blackgram Powdery Mildew','Sapna*, Aswathanarayana D.S., Govindappa M.R., Mallikarjun Kenganal and Sreenivas A.G.\r\n','71 Assessment of Bioefficacy of Potential Fungicides and Biocontrol agents for Efficient Management of Blackgram Powdery Mildew Sapna.pdf','',1,'Though the plant disease management starts with cultural, mechanical, physical and biological methods but practically the chemical methods and use of biocontrol agents are in predominant practice to reduce the outbreak of diseases. Hence, to know the field efficacy of any new fungicide molecules, there is need to test chemical under laboratory condition which provides useful and preliminary information regarding efficacy of fungicides against pathogen within a shortest period of time. A experiment was conducted to evaluate the bioefficacy of fungicides and bioagents against Erysiphe polygoni causing powdery mildew in blackgram at Deparment of Plant Pathology, UAS Raichur. Among ten systemic fungicides, seven non systemic fungicides, nine combi fungicides and seven bioagents evaluated against E. polygoni, maximum mean inhibition of conidial germination was observed in tebuconazole 25 EC (98.67%), mancozeb 75 WP (88.62%), carbendazim 12 % + mancozeb 63 % WP (85.06%) and P. fluorescens','Blackgram, Powdery mildew, Fungicides, Bioagents, Per cent disease index.','From the present study it was concluded that, among ten systemic fungicides, seven non systemic fungicides, nine combi fungicides and seven bioagents evaluated against E. polygoni under in vitro condition, maximum mean inhibition of conidial germination was observed in tebuconazole 25 EC, mancozeb 75 WP, carbendazim 12 % + mancozeb 63 % WP and P. fluorescens (Dharwad) respectively. Whereas in field condition two sprays of difenconazole at 0.1 per cent found best fungicide in management of powdery mildew of blackgram followed by propiconazole, tebuconazole and hexaconazole treatments.','-','Sapna, Aswathanarayana D.S., Govindappa M.R., Mallikarjun Kenganal and Sreenivas, A.G. (2021). Assessment of Bioefficacy of Potential Fungicides and Biocontrol agents for Efficient Management of Blackgram Powdery Mildew. Biological Forum â€“ An Internatio'),(3209,'105','Impact of Cluster Frontline Demonstrations on Yield and Net Returns of Gobhi Sarson (Canola) in district Sangrur of Punjab','Sunil Kashyap* and Mandeep Singh','72 Impact of Cluster Frontline Demonstrations on Yield and Net Returns of Gobhi Sarson _Canola_ in district Sangrur of Punjab Sunil Kashyap.pdf','',1,'The concept of frontline demonstration (FLDs) creates direct interface between scientists and farmers, in which innovative technologies are demonstrated at farmerâ€™s fields and in turn feedback is received. Most often farmers lack in scientific knowledge of new production and protection technologies at field level. Thus, FLDs provide an excellent opportunity to demonstrate the modern practices at their fields to bridge the gap between recommended and farmer practice. The present study was carried out by Krishi Vigyan Kendra, in the different villages of district Sangrur during 2015-16 to 2017-18. A total of 130 frontline demonstrations were conducted on gobhi sarson in 40-hectare area at farmersâ€™ fields. The modern crop production and protection technologies with improved high yielding variety (GSC 7 canola type), proper spacing, irrigation, method of sowing, weed management and timely management of plant protection measures on the basis of economic threshold level of pests were dem','Impact, Frontline demonstrations, Gobhi sarson, Technology gap, Net returns.','To conclude, it can be said that cluster frontline demonstrations (CFLDs) played an important role in disseminating the recommended cultivation practices for realizing higher productivity and returns over the farmerâ€™s practice in all the study years. Further, it helped the scientists to minimize the extension and technology gap to make the gobhi sarson cultivation more remunerative. This also led to create a cordial relationship between farmers and scientists and built mutual confidence between them. The CFLD beneficiary farmers may act as an agriculture ambassador for faster dissemination of improved production practices amongst fellow farmers and horizontal expansion in area under oilseeds. The frequent visits of scientists to farmer fields at all important and critical stages of the crop cultivation along with performing different extension activities in participatory mode made the beneficiary farmers more confident and inculcated convincing power amongst them. ','-','Kashyap, S. and Singh, M. (2021). Impact of Cluster Frontline Demonstrations on Yield and Net Returns of Gobhi Sarson (Canola) in district Sangrur of Punjab. Biological Forum â€“ An International Journal, 13(3a): 418-422.'),(3210,'105','Response of Various inter-row Spacings and Levels of Plant Growth Regulators on Yield Attributes and Yield of Linseed (Linum usitatissimum)','Suraboina Himabindu* and Rajesh Singh','73 Response of Various inter-row Spacings and Levels of Plant Growth Regulators on Yield Attributes and Yield of Linseed _Linum usitatissimum_ Suraboina Himabindu.pdf','',1,'An experimental study was conducted to understand the response of various inter-row spacings and levels of plant growth regulators on yield attributes and yield of linseed during rabi season of 2021 which was laid out at crop research farm, Sam Higginbottom University of Agriculture, Technology and Sciences, Prayagraj. The soil of the experimental field was sandy loam in texture having pH of 6.9, organic carbon of 0.91%, available nitrogen at 301.26 kg/ha, available phosphorus 37.23 kg/ha and available potassium at 271.47 kg/ha. It consisted of different levels of plant growth regulators such as Gibberellic acid (125 and 250 ppm) and Indole acetic acid (1 and 3 ppm) and two spacings (20 cm Ã— 5 cm and 30 cm Ã— 5 cm), respectively. Overall nine treatments were developed along with consideration of control plot as one of the treatments. Finally, the experimental study concluded that maximum number of capsules (49.93/plant), test weight (7.14 g), seed yield (1.48 t/ha), stover yield (3.19','Inter-row spacing, Plant growth regulators, Seed yield, Stover yield.','On the basis of the research work conducted in one season, it is concluded that treatment combination of 20 cm Ã— 5 cm + GA3 at 250 ppm was found to be beneficial for obtaining higher seed yield.','-','Himabindu, S. and Singh, R. (2021). Response of Various inter-row Spacings and Levels of Plant Growth Regulators on Yield Attributes and Yield of Linseed (Linum usitatissimum). Biological Forum â€“ An International Journal, 13(3a): 423-426.'),(3211,'102','Survey for Mungbean Yellow Mosaic Virus Disease and its Vector Bemisia tabaci in Mungbean (Vigna radiata (L.) Wilczek) Growing Regions of Southern Karnataka','Chirag Gautam*, H.K. Ramappa, Sahana N. Banakar and S. Basavaraj','116 Survey for Mungbean Yellow Mosaic Virus Disease and its Vector Bemisia tabaci in Mungbean _Vigna radiata _L.pdf','',1,'Mungbean yellow mosaic virus disease is the most devastating disease of mungbean world widely causing qualitative and quantitative losses in yield upto cent percent. Information regarding disease severity and vector population may help in planning of better management strategies. Therefore, a roving survey was conducted to know the incidence of MYMV and its vector Bemisia tabaci in southern Karnataka during Rabi summer 2016-17 and 2017-18. Among the thirty villages, the percent disease incidence ranged from 27.00-87.80 and 30.25-95.58 in respective years. The highest percent disease incidence of 79.81 and 83.73 was recorded in Chamarajanagar district in 2016-17 and subsequent year respectively, followed by Tumakuru (52.89% and 48.21%) and Bengaluru urban (43.00% and 45.34%). While, the lowest incidence was recorded in Bengaluru rural (29.38% and 33.65 %) followed by Mandya (37.05% and 41.96%). The average whitefly population ranged from 2.3-4.5 and 2.7-5.2 per plant in Rabi summer 2016','MYMV, disease severity, mungbean, whitefly, survey.','Mungbean yellow mosaic virus disease is the most devastating disease of mungbean world widely causing qualitative and quantitative losses in yield upto cent percent. Information regarding disease severity and vector population may help in planning of better management strategies. Therefore, a roving survey was conducted to know the incidence of MYMV and its vector Bemisia tabaci in southern Karnataka during Rabi summer 2016-17 and 2017-18. Among the thirty villages, the percent disease incidence ranged from 27.00-87.80 and 30.25-95.58 in respective years. The highest percent disease incidence of 79.81 and 83.73 was recorded in Chamarajanagar district in 2016-17 and subsequent year respectively, followed by Tumakuru (52.89% and 48.21%) and Bengaluru urban (43.00% and 45.34%). While, the lowest incidence was recorded in Bengaluru rural (29.38% and 33.65 %) followed by Mandya (37.05% and 41.96%). The average whitefly population ranged from 2.3-4.5 and 2.7-5.2 per plant in Rabi summer 2016','-','Gautam, C., Ramappa, H.K., Banakar, S.N. and Basavaraj, S. (2021). Survey for Mungbean Yellow Mosaic Virus Disease and its Vector Bemisia tabaci in Mungbean (Vigna radiata (L.) Wilczek) Growing Regions of Southern Karnataka. Biological Forum â€“ An Intern'),(3212,'105','Performance of Chemical Herbicides on Weed Dynamics and Economics of Direct Seeded Rice','Ajay Kumar, Sanjay Kumar, Mohammad Rashid Ashrafi*, Prithvi Raj, Ravikesh Kumar Pal and Swaraj Kumar Dutta','74 Performance of Chemical Herbicides on Weed Dynamics and Economics of Direct Seeded Rice Ajay Kumar.pdf','',1,'In recent years, direct-seeded rice (DSR) has emerged as a viable alternative to conventional transplanted rice. Direct-seeded rice conserves water and has physical, economical and environmental benefits, but weeds represent a major issue for crop production efficiency. Itâ€™s tough to manage them with a single pre-or post-emergence herbicide spray since they come in many flushes. Keeping this in mind, a field experiment was conducted during the 2019-20 Kharif season at the Bihar Agricultural Universityâ€™s Agricultural Research Farm at Sabour, Bhagalpur, to evaluate the effectiveness of various pre-and post-emergence herbicides on weed dynamics and the economics of direct seeded rice. The experiment was laid down into split-plot design with three replications having four pre-emergence herbicides (main plot) and five post-emergence herbicides (sub plot) consisting of twenty treatment combinations. Results revealed that use of Pendimethalin @ 1000 g a.i. ha-1 as pre-emergence followe','B:C ratio, Pendimethalin, Post-emergence, Pre-emergence and Weed Dynamics.','Based on the results obtained from this research, it can be concluded that pre-emergence application of Pendimethalin @ 1000 g a.i. ha-1 followed by post-emergence application of Bispyribac @ 25 g a.i. ha-1 + Pyrazosulfuron @ 20 g a.i. ha-1 can manage the weeds effectively and it also proved to be more economical in the cultivation of direct seeded rice.','-','Kumar, A., Kumar, S., Ashrafi, M.R., Raj, P., Pal, R.K. and Dutta, S.K. (2021). Performance of Chemical Herbicides on Weed Dynamics and Economics of Direct Seeded Rice. Biological Forum â€“ An International Journal, 13(3a): 427-432.'),(3213,'105','Effect on Acceptability and Cost of Burfi Prepared From Cow Milk Blended with Skim Milk Powder','K.V. Jadhao, P.A. Kahate*, R.R. Shelke, K.U. Bidwe and Y.K. Sanap','75 Effect on Acceptability and Cost of Burfi Prepared From Cow Milk Blended with Skim Milk Powder P.A Kahate.pdf','',1,'The present investigation was carried out in the Department of Animal Husbandry and Dairy Science, Dr PDKV Akola (Maharashtra) during the year 2020-21. With a view to utilize skim milk powder in burfi preparation, burfi was prepared with different combinations of cow milk and skim milk powder as 100:00, 80:20, 70:30, 60:40 and 50:50 in treatment T1, T2, T3, T4 and T5. The samples of fresh burfi were subjected to sensory evaluation by panel of judges. Low fat cow milk burfi was prepared from cow milk blended with skim milk powder as 80% cow milk and 20% skim milk powder (T2) scored highest for overall acceptability (8.62) during sensory evaluation. The cost of production of acceptable burfi (T2) i.e. 80% cow milk blended with 20 % skim milk powder was Rs 269.45 per kg.','Skim milk powder, burfi, cow milk, overall acceptability, economics.','Sensory quality of burfi in respect of flavour, colour and appearance, body and texture and overall acceptability showed that, 20 per cent level of skim milk powder in the manufacture of burfi was acceptable. The cost of burfi was decreased with the increased in the level of skim milk powder. The cost of most acceptable burfi prepared with 20 per cent skim milk powder was Rs. 269.45 per kg. ','-','Jadhao, K.V., Kahate, P.A., Shelke, R.R., Bidwe, K.U. and Sanap, Y.K. (2021). Effect on Acceptability and Cost of Burfi Prepared From Cow Milk Blended with Skim Milk Powder. Biological Forum â€“ An International Journal, 13(3a): 433-435.'),(3214,'102','Assessment of Seed Enhancement Treatments on Relative Storability of Wheat Grain Produced under Zero Tillage Technique comprises Conventional Tillage','Prabhat Kumar, Dayanidhi Chaubey, Randhir Kumar and Sanjay Kumar Sharma','117 Assessment of Seed Enhancement Treatments on Relative Storability of Wheat Grain Produced under Zero Tillage Technique comprises Conventional Tillage DAYANIDHI CHAUBEY.pdf','',1,'The most initial critical stage of crop grow this germination of seeds and uniform plant population stand in the field that determine the yield potential. Productivity is especially frequently hampered under suboptimal situation which primarily attributed to uneven or poor germination and have asynchronous seedling emergence. Seed produced under zero tillage technique leads to moisture stress as well as temperature stress in the field condition which might reflect the vigour potential of seed. It has been notice that stress (due to moisture) has deleterious consequence effects on germination and viability of seeds. The relative storability of seed lot harvested from two different tillage condition sown after the seed enhancement treatments was assessed by the standard germination, vigour indices and electrical conductivity after six months of storage in the gunny bag under ambient condition. Seed vigour potential and electrical conductivity of seed lot produced under zero tillage techn','Moisture stress, Seedling emergence, Seed priming, Viability.','Seed vigour potential of seed lot produced under zero tillage technique was comparatively inferior to that of normal tillage. Further seed enhancement treatment improves the seed vigour potential in both the tillage techniques. Almost all the treatment has been improved seed vigour potential significantly over control. Among all the treatments, KNO3 (2.0 %) was found to be best which was also at par with KNO3 (2.0 %) in succession with seed dressing with Bavistin in both the tillage condition.','-','Kumar, P., Chaubey, D., Kumar, R. and Sharma, S.K. (2021). Assessment of seed enhancement treatments on relative storability of wheat grain produced under zero tillage technique comprises conventional tillage. Biological Forum â€“ An International Journal'),(3215,'105','The Effect on Okra Seed Germination using Filtrates of Isolated Pathogenic Fungi from Black Point Infected Wheat Grains','Poonam Rani, Anita Singh and Ankit Kumar','76 The Effect on Okra Seed Germination using Filtrates of Isolated Pathogenic Fungi from Black Point Infected Wheat Grains Poonam Rani.pdf','',1,'The effect of eight fungi filtrates (isolated from infected black point wheat grains) was carried out in 2020 on healthy seeds of okra (Abelmoschus esculentus) at Baba Farid College, Bathinda, Punjab. The total four concentrations i.e. 25, 50, 75 and 100% of twelve day old culture filtrates of Alternaria alternata, Aspergillus niger, Rhizopus spp., Helminthosporiums spp., Curvularia spp., Penicillium spp. and Fusarium spp. were used for present studies. These overnight pre-soaked seeds of okra were planted in pots under green house condition. Total three replications were used and each pot was having 12 seeds. Further the germination percentage of okra seeds was recorded. The result revealed that there was significantly reduction in percentages seed germination was observed as the concentration was increased. The maximum reduction of germination was recorded at 100% concentration in which Helminthosporium spp. (38.8Â±0.6) was showing maximum germination followed by Rhizopus spp. (30.','Black point, Culture filtrates, Okra seeds, Pathogenic fungi, Seed germination, Wheat ','The present findings are significant are common in agricultural products like cereals, pulses, oil seeds, feeds (Fakhrunnisa et al., 2006). The current results are positively correlated with Narasimha Rao et al., (2006), reported reduction in the germination when treated with isolated filtrate of different pathogen. Consumption of wheat invaded by these myco-toxins indicates a potential risk for contamination and hazardous for human health (Gautam and Bhadauria, 2009; Masiello et al., 2020). However, consumers demand food and feed productions with a high qualitative standard to guarantee health of both human and other animals. \r\nHence, this present finding is more significant and beneficial to the farmers as well as to the grower which should assist in managing risk and will encourage them for replacement of infected seeds to reduce the initial inoculums to minimise the amount of crop quality.\r\n','-','Rani, P., Singh, A. and Kumar, A. (2021). The Effect on Okra Seed Germination using Filtrates of Isolated Pathogenic Fungi from Black Point Infected Wheat Grains. Biological Forum â€“ An International Journal, 13(3a): 436-440.'),(3216,'105','Impact of Fungicides on Bipolaris sorokiniana causing Spot Blotch Disease of Wheat under in Vitro and in Vivo Condition','Vinay Kumar, Guddu Kumar*, C.S. Azad, Amarendra Kumar and Manish Raj','77 Impact of Fungicides on Bipolaris sorokiniana causing Spot Blotch Disease of Wheat under in Vitro and in Vivo Condition Vinay Kumar.pdf','',1,'Spot blotch of wheat is caused by Bipolaris sorokiniana and it is considered as one of the emerging disease. They affect the crop at any stage right from beginning to maturity of crop and cause 25 to 35 per cent loss in yield. In present study efforts were made to find out suitable management measures through various chemicals. Under in vitro condition, propiconazole and tebuconazole gave 100 per cent growth inhibition of B. sorokiniana even at lower concentration (25 ppm). Azoxystrobin, thiram and carboxin were also found effective as compared to control Under field condition, ST by thiram + carboxin @ 2.5 g/kg of seed + FS of propiconazole @ 0.1% at boot leaf stage on Flag-1 leaf followed by second spray at 20 days interval (two sprays) proved to be best in reducing spot blotch disease at hard dough stage. Maximum seed germination per cent (96.00%) was recorded in three treatments viz., ST by thiram + carboxin @ 2.5 g/kg of seed, ST by thiram + carboxin @ 2.5 g/kg of seed + FS spr','Spot blotch, fungicides, propiconazole, tebuconazole, Bipolaris sorokiniana.','â€¢ï€ The present study revealed that under in vitro condition propiconazole and tebuconazole completely checked growth of B. sorokiniana even at 25 ppm. Azoxystrobin, thiram and carboxin were also found effective in checking the growth of B. sorokiniana. Among in vitro test of fertilizers maximum percent inhibition were recorded in urea at 1.5% i.e. 81.03%, which was at per with soluble potash (80.76%). Among in vitro test of nano compounds maximum percent inhibition (64.81%) were recorded in silver nanoparticles @ 100 ppm, which was at per with aluminium nanoparticles (55.34%). Among bio-agents Trichoderma harzianum (Th-b1), BAU isolate proved to be better in all respect over other bio-agents in dual culture technique.\r\nâ€¢ï€ Under detached leaf technique maximum incubation period and maximum disease severity was found in case of PBW 660 i.e. 6.67 days and 10.00% respectively which was followed by HD 2967 i.e. 5.67 days and 20.33 respectively. Minimum average number of lesion per lea','-','Kumar, V., Kumar, G., Azad, C.S., Kumar, A. and Raj, M. (2021). Impact of Fungicides on Bipolaris sorokiniana causing Spot Blotch Disease of Wheat under in Vitro and in Vivo Condition. Biological Forum â€“ An International Journal, 13(3a): 441-447.'),(3217,'105','Impact of Integrated Nutrient Management in Rice (Oryza sativa) on Grain and Protein Yield of Succeeding Wheat (Triticum aestivum) in Long Term Rice-Wheat Cropping System','Shivani Ranjan, Sanjay Kumar, Sumit Sow* and Swaraj Kumar Dutta','78 Impact of Integrated Nutrient Management in Rice _Oryza sativa_ on Grain and Protein Yield of Succeeding Wheat _Triticum aestivum_ in Long Term Rice-Wheat Cropping System Sumit Sow.pdf','',1,'Long-term sustainability is the major concern in the scenario of todayâ€™s agriculture.\r\nContinuous use of suboptimal doses of nutrients in intensive cropping system has resulted in severe depletion\r\nof nutrient reserves in soil, leading to multiple nutrient deficiencies. Combined use of organic and chemical\r\nfertilizers significantly improved crop yield and soil physical properties over the recommended dose of\r\ninorganic fertilizers alone. A field experiment was conducted at research farm of Bihar Agricultural\r\nUniversity, Sabour, Bhagalpur during the rabi season of 2020-21 in a randomized block design with eleven\r\ntreatments and three replications using three sources of organic manure that were farm yard manure (FYM),\r\nwheat straw, green manure (GM) to study the impact of variable integrated nutrient management (INM) in\r\nrice (Oryza sativa) and application of inorganic nutrient in wheat on protein content and protein yield of\r\nwheat (Triticum aestivum). The results revealed that grai','Farm yard manure, Green manuring, Integrated nutrient management.','Integrated nutrient management is an approach that\r\nseeks to increase crop productivity without\r\ncompromising the quality of the produce and thereby\r\nhelp to meet future food demands. Therefore, from\r\nlong term experiment of 36 years it may be concluded\r\nthat substitution of 50% inorganic N by FYM and\r\napplication of 50% RDF in rice followed by 100%\r\nRDF in wheat may be adopted for achieving higher\r\nproductivity, protein content and protein yield in ricewheat\r\ncropping system.','-','Ranjan, S., Kumar, S., Sow, S. and Dutta, S.K. (2021). Impact of Integrated Nutrient Management in\r\nRice (Oryza sativa) on Grain and Protein Yield of Succeeding Wheat (Triticum aestivum) in Long Term Rice-Wheat Cropping\r\nSystem. Biological Forum â€“ An In'),(3218,'105','Effect of Microbial Consortia on Available Nutrients and Microbial Population in Soil of Soybean in Vertisol','Shubham Singh*, N.G. Mitra, R.K. Sahu, Bablu Yaduwanshi, Sangya Singh and Kavita Soni','79 Effect of Microbial Consortia on Available Nutrients and Microbial Population in Soil of Soybean in Vertisol Shubham Singh.pdf','',1,'The research work was carried out during Kharif 2019 in the Experimental field, Department of Soil Science, JNKVV, Jabalpur (M.P.) under RBD with 3 replications having 16 treatments comprising different combinations as consortia of Rhizobium sp., PSB (Bacillus sp.), actinomycetes (Streptomyces sp.), Rhodopseudomonas sp., Lactobacillus sp., Saccharomyces sp. and Aspergillus sp. In addition, these, two types of control plots were maintained as fertilized uninoculated control (FUI) and unfertilized uninoculated control (UFUI), and the available nutrient contents (N, P & K) and populations of the microbial species were estimated at harvest. The outcome of the study revealed that Consortia of microbial inoculants T14 increased the highest content of available nutrients (N, P and K) by 50.28, 57.60 & 34.48%, respectively (FUI: 194, 14.10 & 242 kg ha-1), and the population of microbial species viz., Rhizobium, Bacillus, Streptomyces, Rhodopseudomonas, Lactobacillus, Saccharomyces and Aspergil','Rhizobium, Actinomycetes, Rhodopseudomonas, Saccharomyces, Soybean, Microbial count.\r\n \r\n','The result of the investigation showed that the application of consortium T14 (consortia of Rhizo + PSB + Strepto + Rhodo + Lacto + Saccharo + Aspergil) as seed inoculation performed the best consortium for enhancing seed and stover yield of soybean. Similarly, for soil parameters, the same treatment combination performed significantly better towards soil available nutrient contents of N, P and K and rhizospheric microbial populations (Rhizobium, Bacillus, Streptomyces, Rhodopseudomonas, Lactobacillus, Saccharomyces and Aspergillus) at post-harvest. In every case, the treatment combinations of T13, T11 and T12 exhibited as the next ensuing performance group. This was attributed due to the different chemical and biochemical secretions by the microbial consortia which leads to vigorous plant growth and systemic resistance (ASR and ISR), enhancement of the protein and RNA synthesis for better production of soybean.','-','Singh, S., Mitra, N.G., Sahu, R.K., Yaduwanshi, B., Singh, S. and Soni, K. (2021). Effect of Microbial Consortia on Available Nutrients and Microbial Population in Soil of Soybean in Vertisol. Biological Forum â€“ An International Journal, 13(3a): 451-4'),(3219,'105','Seaweed Extract can Boon the Yield Performances and Profitability of Wheat (Triticum aestivum)','Sarita, Seema, Suborna Roy Chaudhary, Manish Raj* and Vibha Kumari','80 Seaweed Extract can Boon the Yield Performances and Profitability of Wheat Triticum aestivum_ Sarita.pdf','',1,'The study highlighted the assessment of suitable dose of seaweed extract in wheat as seed treatment and foliar application at different vegetative stage with different doses @ 2ml litre-1 and 4ml litre-1 under irrigated field conditions. The result revealed that foliar application of seaweed extract @ 4ml litre-1 at tillering & heading stage was observed significantly higher yield of wheat (Biological yield, grain and straw yield) and was at par with foliar application of seaweed extract @ 2ml litre-1 water at tillering & heading stage. Although main plot treatments did not show any significant influence on the performance of wheat. Significantly higher Gross Return and Net Return were obtained by foliar application of seaweed extract at tillering and heading stage @ 4ml litre-1 and the maximum B:C ratio was obtained from foliar application of seaweed extract @ 2ml litre-1 at heading stage. Based on one season of experimentation it can be concluded that foliar application of seaweed ex','Seaweed extract, wheat, foliar application.','Based on the finding of the present study, it may be revealed that @ 4ml litre-1 foliar application of seaweed extract along with water at tillering and heading stage (T6) improved the yield attributing characters and yield. T6 also helps in gaining the maximum Gross and Net Returns.\r\nSeaweed extract concentration act as the source of micro-elements as well as growth regulators (Cytokinins, GA, Auxine etc.). These plant growth regulators play an important role in effective increment in the wheat yield.\r\n','-','Sarita, Seema, Chaudhary, S.R., Raj, M. and Kumari, V. (2021). Seaweed extract can boon the yield performances and profitability of wheat (Triticum aestivum). Biological Forum â€“ An International Journal, 13(3a): 459-463.'),(3220,'105','Techno-economic Evaluation of Solar Photovoltaic Water Pumping based Micro-irrigation System in Vegetable Cultivation: A Case Study','M.K. Ghosal*, Soni Badra and Narayan Sahoo','81 Techno-economic Evaluation of Solar Photovoltaic Water Pumping based Micro-irrigation System in Vegetable Cultivation A Case Study Manoj Kumar Ghosal.pdf','',1,'Techno-economic assessment of a standalone solar photovoltaic water pumping based drip irrigation system has been evaluated for okra cultivation in 1 acre of land in warm and humid climatic condition of the state of Odisha, India in rabi and summer seasons during 2018-19. This activity has been taken up with a view to study the feasibility of creating secured irrigation facility at the individual level through a pumping system powered by sustainable and eco-friendly solar PV electricity for cultivating highly remunerative vegetables in order to improve the livelihood of small and marginal farmers. Micro-irrigation method through drip system has been integrated with the solar PV device to achieve judicious utilization of water. Monthly income of Rs. 10,000/- throughout the year may be possible by adopting remunerative hybrid okra cultivation in 1 acre of land both during rabi and summer seasons and payback period was calculated to be only 2 years. ','Solar photovoltaic system, Solar PV water pump, Micro-irrigation, Water use efficiency, Drip irrigation, Vegetable cultivation','Agricultural production depends on the availability of two important input materials i.e. water and energy. There is at present the crisis of these two materials worldwide particularly in the agricultural sector. However, it is the dire need of time to increase the crop production in order to feed the fast rising of the population. Hence, sustainable approaches are necessary to achieve energy and food security. One of the promising approaches is the use of solar photovoltaic water pumping unit not only for its cost-effective application but also usage at the individual level in remote off-grid areas, especially in the developing countries (Sontake and Kalamkar 2016). Continuous research and developments in recent years have established the fact of the economic viability of the photovoltaic water pumping system in the domestic, industrial and agricultural sectors compared to the conventional ones, mostly in the tropical belts of the world (Kelley et al., 2010). This paper therefore focu','-','Ghosal, M.K., Badra, S. and Sahoo, N. (2021). Techno-economic Evaluation of Solar Photovoltaic Water Pumping based Micro-irrigation System in Vegetable Cultivation: A Case Study. Biological Forum â€“ An International Journal, 13(3a): 464-469.'),(3221,'105','Processing of Murmura In North Karnataka - An Economic Study','Srividyarani S. Sajjan*, Balachandra K. Naik, Vilas S. Kulkarni, Chandranath H.T. and Suma Hasalkar','82 Processing of Murmura in North Karnataka - An Economic Study Srividyarani S. Sajjan.pdf','',1,'Rice (Oryza sativa) commonly known as Asian rice. Rice belongs to family Poaceae and serve as a good source of vitamin B-6, thiamin, riboflavin, niacin, fiber and iron. This research article is focused on processing aspects of murmura which would help the start ups and entrepreneurs for establishing processing units. Based on the highest production of paddy, Raichur and Ballari districts were selected. From both the districts 20 processing units were selected for the study. The total cost of processing of paddy to one quintal of murmura was `2499.61, out of which the total variable cost was `2,392 per quintal and total fixed cost was `107 per quintal. The gross returns and net returns realized from processing of one quintal of paddy into murmura was accounted to be `4,073 and `1,355 per quintal respectively. The returns to scale (ï“bi) in murmura was 1.34 per cent indicating increasing returns to scale. Regression coefficients of cost of soda, telephone and miscellaneous charges, mark','Murmura, cost of processing, gross returns, net returns, returns to scale, constraints.','The variables included in the function explained 98 per cent variation in the dependent variable. The returns to scale (ï“bi) was 1.34 respectively, which indicates increasing returns to scale. The MVP and MFC ratios for electricity and fuel charges, wages to labour, telephone and miscellaneous charges, market fee and commission were positive and more than unity indicating that the resources were underutilized, increasing the quantity of these resources would increase the returns and hence maximize their profit in murmura production. The MVP and MFC ratios for cost of sand, cost of gunny bag, repair and maintenance were positive and less than unity indicating that resources are over utilized, increasing the quantity of these resources will decrease the returns and maximize the profit. High price of raw materials, lack of availability of sufficient raw materials, high moisture content and improper quality of raw materials were the major problems faced by the processors in production','-','Sajjan, S.S., Naik, B.K., Kulkarni, V.S., Chandranath, H.T. and Hasalkar, S. (2021). Processing of Murmura in North Karnataka - An Economic Study. Biological Forum â€“ An International Journal, 13(3a): 470-475.'),(3222,'105','Use of E-Resources in Indian Agriculture Education System during the COVID-19 Pandemic Era','Deepak Kumar Namdeo, Vivek Badhe, S. Sarvade and Purshottam Namdeo','83 Use of E-Resources in Indian Agriculture Education System during the COVID-19 Pandemic Era Deepak Kumar Namdeo.pdf','',1,'Whole world is facing problems arose due to the COVID-19 pandemic situation. In this pandemic era agricultural activities, teaching/learning process and research activities in agriculture education system of India conducted well because of implementation of information technology (IT). Whereas, the fully adoption of such technology is not seen in case of inaccessible areas and some faculties, who not familiar with advance IT tools. Internet connectivity is the one problem faced by most of the faculty/scientist/ students of the agriculture. This paper focuses on the awareness and uses of various online e-resources by faculty members in research, teaching learning process, and its satisfaction level of information needs. This research presents the holistic picture of uses of e-resources in the Indian agriculture education in the course of current pandemic.','Agriculture Education, COVID-19, E-Resources, Information Technology','Online e-resources plays key role in teaching, learning and research activities during pandemic COIVD-19 situation. Most of the teaching/ learning community use e-resources effectively for the regular academic and research activities. Research scholars, faculty members and scientists move towards the e-resources to fulfill their requirement regarding information through mobile apps with high satisfaction level among all age group. Use of such resources may not lower down an importance of information print resources. Whereas, e-resources were most important for getting information related to agriculture during such a pandemic situation. ','-','Namdeo, D. K., Badhe, V., Sarvade, S. and Namdeo, P. (2021). Use of E-Resources in Indian Agriculture Education System during the COVID-19 Pandemic Era. Biological Forum â€“ An International Journal, 13(3a): 476-482.'),(3223,'105','Effect of Pruning and Foliar Application of Brassinosteroid and Salicylic acid on Growth, Yield and Quality of Phalsa (Grewia subinaequalis L.)','Sowgandhika Vankar*, Anita Kerketta and Vijay Bahadur','84 Effect of Pruning and Foliar Application of Brassinosteroid and Salicylic acid on Growth, Yield and Quality of Phalsa _Grewia subinaequalis L._ Sowgandhika Vankar.pdf','',1,'To improve the vegetative growth, yield, and quality of the phalsa, the present Experiment was carried out during 2020 December to 2021 May in the Horticulture Research farm and laboratory, Department of Horticulture, Sam Higginbottom University of Agriculture, Technology and Science, Prayagraj. The experimental field was laid out in Randomized Block Design (RBD) with seven treatments and three Replications of different combinations. The variety used in this experiment was Sharbati. The experiment comprised two foliar applications consisting of Brassinosteroid @5mg/l, Brassinosteroid@10mg/l, Brassinosteroid @15mg/l, salicylic acid 300ppm, salicylic acid@500ppm, salicylic acid@700ppm with control. Experiment results revealed that the imposition of the different treatments had a significant effect on improving the vegetative growth, yield, and quality of the phalsa plants. The results of the study indicated that the treatment T4 Brassinosteroid @ 15 mg/l was superior in respect of the pa','Phalsa, Growth, Brassinosteroid, Salicylic acid.','From the foregoing discussion it is concluded that among the different suitable doses of brassinosteroid and salicylic acid significantly bore maximum number of canes per bush, number of sprouted shoots per canes, length of shoots (cm), number of fruiting nodes per shoots, tss (Â°Brix), fresh weight of 100 fruit (g), juice percent and fruit yield (t/ha), whereas treatment T4 Brassinosteroid @15mg/l gave significantly higher growth, yield. Hence, for better growth and development it is recommended to apply the foliar application of brassinosteroidt 4@15mg/l at the pre-bloom stage in phalsa under prayagraj agro-climatic conditions.','-','Vankar, S., Kerketta, A. and Bahadur, V. (2021). Effect of Pruning and Foliar Application of Brassinosteroid and Salicylic acid on Growth, Yield and Quality of Phalsa (Grewia subinaequalis L.). Biological Forum â€“ An International Journal, 13(3a): 483-48'),(3224,'105','Physical Properties and Sensory Quality Attribute of Burger Buns from Ragi and Moringa Leaf Powder','Aaradhna Boria, Shashi Gour*, Alok Dhar Dubey and S.S. Shukla','85 Physical Properties and Sensory Quality Attribute of Burger Buns from Ragi and Moringa Leaf Powder Shashi Gour.pdf','',1,'The bakery is a traditional activity that comprises an important place in the processing sector worldwide. In India, the bakery industry offers huge potential for growth of this segment among other food processing industries. Processing of ragi millet and moringa leaf powder to develop value-added food products would be the possible solution for enhancing consumption, nutritional status, and livelihood security of the tribal community. With the changing scenario of the utilization of processed products and awareness regarding the health benefits of ragi millet and moringa leaf powder, tremendous potential exists for its utilization in bakery products like burger buns, cupcakes, cookies, etc. Burger buns are sweet baked products highly appreciated by consumers because of their soft texture and characteristic taste. The height, volume, and specific volume of ragi flour and moringa leaf powder fortified burger bun baking range from 3.4 to 4.65 cm, 110-156.2 cm3, and 1.642-2.215 g/cm2. The','Burger buns, Moringa Leaf Powder, ragi millet, Physical properties, sensory quality.','The ragi flour and moringa leaf powder can be fortified up to 10% and 7.5%, respectively, for treatment T4 (82.5:10:7.5:4:1.5) in refined wheat flour and other baking ingredients viz. sugar 40 g, yeast 15 g for preparation of burger buns. The above findings suggest that the best product can be developed using the above levels of ingredients at household and commercial-scale bakery industry levels. Millet grains as a replacement in wheat composite flours, complimentary food, and food blends seem the best method that can be used for the preparation of nutritional, â€œhealthy,â€ and safe, high-quality, and shelf-stable food products at household and commercial scales to promote utilization of millet grains. Moringa leaves powder is considered a rich source of Ca, Mg, and Fe, could be used to fortify many bakery products, but there is a need to carry out more studies to evaluate these minerals bioavailability in bakery products in the future.','-','Boria, A., Gour, S., Dubey, A.D. and Shukla, S.S. (2021). Physical Properties and Sensory Quality Attribute of Burger Buns from Ragi and Moringa Leaf Powder. Biological Forum â€“ An International Journal, 13(3a): 487-494'),(3225,'105','Evaluation of Botanicals Against Fusarium udum under in vitro Conditions','B. Deepak Reddy*, Birendra Kumar, Sangita Sahini, M. Sunitha and K. Sai Krishna','86 Evaluation of Botanicals Against Fusarium udum under in vitro Conditions B. Deepak Reddy.pdf','',1,'Pigeonpea is one of the staple pulse crop in the world. Yield of pigeonpea is affected by various biotic stresses, among them wilt is the most important disease and it is causing severe yield losses. Use of botanical extracts for the management of fungal diseases in plants is considered as a substitute to synthetic fungicides, due to their less negative effects on the human and environment health hazard or implications.For management of pigeonpea wilt seven botanicals were tested at 10%, 15%, 20% and 30%. Among all the botanicals garlic and turmeric exhibited highest per cent inhibition. At 144 hours the per cent inhibition was 89.63% and turmeric was 87.03%.','Pigeonpea wilt, Management, Botanicals.','A total of seven botanicals were evaluated against Fusarium udum under in vitro conditions at 10%, 15%, 20% and 30%. In all the test concentrations garlic and neem exhibited highest per cent inhibition. Field experiments were needed for further confirmation. ','-','Reddy, B. D., Kumar, B., Sahini, S., Sunitha, M. and Krishna, K.S. (2021). Evaluation of Botanicals Against Fusarium udum under in vitro Conditions. Biological Forum â€“ An International Journal, 13(3a): 495-498.'),(3226,'105','Survey for Resistant Sources and Correlation-regression Studies on Yellow Mosaic Disease (YMD) of Mungbean in Haryana, India','Niharika Sheoran, Promil Kapoor* and M.L. Khichar','87 Survey for Resistant Sources and Correlation-regression Studies on Yellow Mosaic Disease _YMD_ of Mungbean in Haryana, India Promil Kapoor.pdf','',1,'During Kharif, 2020 a survey was conducted by using multistage random sampling technique for recording disease incidence of yellow mosaic disease of mungbean in three districts of Haryana viz., Hisar, Sirsa and Fatehabad. It was found that the highest mean disease incidence was recorded from village in Sirsa and least from location in Hisar district. Yellow mosaic disease produces the symptoms like small yellow specks, mosaic, chlorosis, stunting of plant, puckering of leaves, short flower stalks bearing few flowers and yellow pods with immature and shrivelled seeds. As the disease survey helps in estimating the losses caused by the disease. The disease incidence and whitefly population were recorded simultaneously from mungbean field to calculate the correlation as well as regression equation. Where the whitefly population was found to be positive and significantly correlated with disease incidence at 5% level of significance. The various weather parameters like temperature, rainfall,','Survey, Mungbean, Yellow mosaic disease, Disease Incidence, Correlation and Regression.','During Kharif, 2020 a survey was conducted by using multistage random sampling technique for recording disease incidence of yellow mosaic disease of mungbean in three districts of Haryana viz., Hisar, Sirsa and Fatehabad. It was found that the highest mean disease incidence was recorded from village in Sirsa and least from location in Hisar district. Yellow mosaic disease produces the symptoms like small yellow specks, mosaic, chlorosis, stunting of plant, puckering of leaves, short flower stalks bearing few flowers and yellow pods with immature and shrivelled seeds. As the disease survey helps in estimating the losses caused by the disease. The disease incidence and whitefly population were recorded simultaneously from mungbean field to calculate the correlation as well as regression equation. Where the whitefly population was found to be positive and significantly correlated with disease incidence at 5% level of significance. The various weather parameters like temperature, rainfall,','-','Sheoran, N., Kapoor, P. and Khichar, M.L. (2021). Survey for Resistant Sources and Correlation-regression Studies on Yellow Mosaic Disease (YMD) of Mungbean in Haryana (India). Biological Forum â€“ An International Journal, 13(3a): 499-504.'),(3227,'105','Use of Plant Growth Regulators to Enhance the Pod Setting in Wide Hybridization between Grasspea and Pea','Rita Chopkar*, Abhinav Sao, H.C. Nanda, Sunil Nair and A.K. Sarawgi','88 Use of Plant Growth Regulators to Enhance the Pod Setting in Wide Hybridization Between Grasspea and Pea Rita Chopkara.pdf','',1,'Wide crossing or distant hybridization has been used in the genetic improvement of crop plants by developing useful variability for breeding populations in crop. Distant crosses are more successful in more closely related species or genera than in less closely related species or genera. In distant crosses seed setting show very less and main problem depicted flowers and pods shading one or two days after pollination due to incompatibility reaction between both parents. To overcome flower and pod shading with increase seed setting use of plant growth regulator is one of the best option to overcome the problem in wide hybridization. From out of total 24 parents 18 grasspea genotypes and 7 pea genotypes were used under study. The effect of growth regulators with a combination of GA with NAA and Kinetin on pollinated buds peduncle showed the best result as compare to the other possibilities for both the parents grasspea and pea. The daily application of a mixture of growth regulators con','Plant growth regulator, grasspea, interspecific crosses, intergeneric crosses.','The main drawback of this crop is neurotoxin content ODAP content which reduces its highly manageable and valuable crop for poor farmers. It can be eliminated or reduces upto the level of <0.2% by using pure line selection, pedigree method, pre breeding distant hybridization, somaclonal variation and transformation methods so it is one of the best source of protein for people to overcome the malnutrition in developing countries.','-','Chopkar, R., Sao, A., Nanda, H.C., Nair, S. and Sarawgi, A.K. (2021). Use of Plant Growth Regulators to Enhance the Pod Setting in Wide Hybridization Between Grasspea and Pea. Biological Forum â€“ An International Journal, 13(3a): 505-510.'),(3228,'105','Effect of Different Organic Manures on Growth and Production of Different Carps Rearing from Fry to Fingerlings','Rajanna, C.* and Shivananda Murthy H.','89 Effect of Different Organic Manures on Growth and Production of Different Carps Rearing from Fry to Fingerlings Rajanna C.pdf','',1,'Aquaculture is rapidly developing sector in India and has great demand. Presently, the productivity of fisheries was poor. In order to reduce cost of rearing, the use of indigenous wastes as food is sustainable approach. An experiment was conducted in cement ponds to determine the effect of different organic manures on Specific growth rate and net production of carps (Catla catla, Labeo rohita and Cyprinus carpio) during fry to fingerling stage. Ponds were applied with three types of organic manures viz., cow dung (T1: CD), poultry manure (T2: PM) and cow dung + poultry manure (T3: CD + PM) applied @ 10,000 kg/ha, 5000 kg/ha and 5,000 + 5,000/ha respectively. Periodically growth and survival of fishes were recorded. The result revealed that, in Catla, the growth in weight appeared best in PM treatment, followed by CD, and CD+PM treatment in that order but the differences between treatments were slight. In rohu, the growth in weight may be considered best in PM treatment, followed by CD','Organic Manures, Poultry manure, Cow dung, Rohu, Catla and Common carp.','The low-cost fish production needs use of organic fertilizers and better utilization of naturally available food through composite fish culture. In Catla, Rohu and Common carp, poultry manure treated ponds were shown significantly higher weight, specific growth rate and net production. The known interaction of organic manure and fish production is through abundance of phytoplankton as well as zooplanktons in rearing ponds. The detailed mechanism of interaction of organic manure and fish growth should be studied in future.','-','Rajanna C. and Shivananda Murthy H. (2021). Effect of Different Organic Manures on Growth and Production of Different Carps Rearing from Fry to Fingerlings. Biological Forum â€“ An International Journal, 13(3a): 511-516.'),(3229,'105','Farmers Information Seeking Behavior in Relation to Organic Vegetable Production in Assam','S. Bora, P.K. Das, I. Barman*, S.D. Deka and D. Sonowal','90 Farmers Information Seeking Behavior in Relation to Organic Vegetable Production in Assam S. Bora.pdf','',1,'The study was undertaken in the North Bank Plains Zone and the Central Brahmaputra Valley Zone of Assam, primarily to understand the farmersâ€™ information seeking behaviour in relation to organic vegetable production and identify the factors influencing the information seeking behaviour of farmers. It appears that research activities in the areas of information seeking behaviour have mostly been confined to the cultivation of different crops. However, the number of studies focused on information seeking behaviour of farmers on organic vegetable cultivation was very small. Providing information to the farmers on existence of different sources of information on different aspects of organic vegetable production is important to enrich their information seeking behaviour. There is dearth of information in this context and that is why this study is planned. A multi-stage, purposive-cum- proportionate random sampling design was adopted for the study in order to select 120 respondents. The st','information seeking behaviour, organic vegetable, factors, Assam.','The major findings of the present have a number of implications for policy makers, NGOs, KVKs, various development workers and extension agencies.Massive training/capacity building programmes should be undertaken in the study area to develop and enhance the knowledge and skills of farmers on different aspects of organic vegetable production practices. Keeping the educational level and farming experience of organic vegetable growers into consideration, concerned agencies/departments and extension functionaries should use appropriate information and communication technologies for meeting the information needs of the growers in relation to organic vegetable cultivation. Since organic cultivation is very much popular and eco-friendly, therefore, emphasis may also be laid on popularizing the role of organic cultivation among the vegetable growers. Adequate training and capacity building programmes should be undertaken to develop their knowledge along with timely and reliable delivery of inf','-','Bora, S., Das, P.K., Barman, I., Deka, S.D. and Sonowal, D. (2021). Farmersâ€™ Information Seeking Behavior in Relation to Organic Vegetable Production in Assam. Biological Forum â€“ An International Journal, 13(3a): 517-522.'),(3230,'105','Pollen Behavior of Andromonoecious Flowers of wild Pomegranate (Punica granatum L.) in North â€“ Western Himalayas','Jyoti Dhiman*, Tara Gupta and R.K. Gupta','91 Pollen Behavior of Andromonoecious Flowers of wild Pomegranate _Punica granatum L._ in North â€“ Western Himalayas Jyoti Dhiman.pdf','',1,'The research was carried out at two sites viz; Tatool (S1) district Solan, Narag (S2) district Sirmour, Himachal Pradesh. The major challenge of the presented study was that this species consists of three types of flowers and pollen viability should be measured of male and hermaphrodite flowers separately. In this study, three types of flowers viz; male, intermediate, and hermaphrodite were observed in wild pomegranate. Two-way ANOVA and the factorial experimental design were used for analysis. Percentage of hermaphrodite flowers founded maximum 50.66 % at Tatool and 52% at Narag. Pollen viability of freshly dehisced pollen grains of hermaphrodite and male flowers was examined in 2% acetocarmine solution and the highest mean value observed for hermaphrodite flowers was 85.98 % and 84.02 % among both the sites and in all genotypes respectively. The significant results were obtained for pollen viability in selected genotypes and their interaction site Ã— tree, tree Ã— concentration, site','pollen viability, acetocarmine, pomegranate, andromonoecious flower. ','Fruit set and quality production effected by the proportion of fertile flowers (hermaphrodites), pollen viability, and pollen germination. When we collect pollen from hermaphroditic flowers for pollination, it increases the success rate of reproduction. Since very few studies have been conducted on wild pomegranate, it can be used by the breeder as a guide for the development of disease-resistant cultivated pomegranate hybrids and productive strains of wild access. We observed the maximum percentage of hermaphrodite flowers at both selected locations. Pollen viability was observed highest for hermaphrodite flowers than for male flowers among all selected trees and between both the sites. These selected locations can be used as a seed and pollen source by researchers for future research and by farmers to increase anardana production.','-','Dhiman, J., Gupta, T. and Gupta, R.K. (2021). Pollen Behavior of Andromonoecious Flowers of wild Pomegranate (Punica granatum L.) in North â€“ Western Himalayas. Biological Forum â€“ An International Journal, 13(3a): 523-527.'),(3231,'105','Quality Protein Maize: An Investigation for Identification of Heterotic Hybrids for Grain Yield and Important yield Component Traits','Arjun Kumar Agarwal, Devraj Lenka, Digbijaya Swain, Barsha Rani Barik, Ankita Mishra and Swapan Kumar Tripathy','92 Quality Protein Maize An Investigation for Identification of Heterotic Hybrids for Grain Yield and Important yield Component Traits Swapan Kumar Tripathy.pdf','',1,'Maize is a highly cross pollinated crop. Heterosis breeding is the most widely accepted breeding method for enhancing yield potential in the crop. But, development of a truly potential heterotic hybrid requires identification of a specific cross combination that exhibits maximum hybrid vigour. Therefore, a study was conducted on F1 population of 28 crosses generated by half diallel mating of 8 QPM inbred lines during Kharif -2020. These crosses were evaluated in a Randomised Block Design with three replications to estimate average heterosis, heterobeltiosis and standard heterosis for twelve morpho-agronomic traits including grain yield. For all the characters, analysis of variance revealed that the mean sum of squares owing to genotype is highly significant. The most significant positive average heterosis and heterobeltiosis for grain yield were recorded in the cross DQL 2159 (Q3) Ã— 70160 (Q5), followed by the crosses DQL 2221-1-1(Q4) Ã— 70160 (Q5) and DQL 2099 (Q2) Ã— 70160 (Q5). The','Average heterosis, heterobeltiosis, standard heterosis, quality protein maize (QPM) ','Now-a-days, cultivation of hybrids is gaining futuristic importance. Therefore, exploring a truly heterotic hybrid in a mating design is an important part of hybrid development. The present investigation revealed majority of the crosses with positive significant average heterosis, heterobeltiosis, and standard heterosis for yield and important yield attributing traits, suggesting dominance nature of genes with positive effect. Besides, a number of crosses showed favourable heterotic behaviour with negative heterosis for maturity-related characteristics indicating that the genes with negative effects were dominant for these traits. A few superior F1 hybrids were sorted out with higher degrees of heterosis for a number of important yield contributing traits. The top three selected crosses based on standard heterosis included Q1 Ã— Q5, Q2 Ã— Q7 and Q1 Ã— Q6 for grain yield. These crosses may be considered as heterotic QPM hybrids for commercial cultivation.','-','Agarwal, A.K., Lenka, D., Swain, D., Barik, B.R., Mishra, A. and Tripathy, S.K. (2021). Quality Protein Maize: An Investigation for Identification of Heterotic Hybrids for Grain Yield and Important yield Component Traits. Biological Forum â€“ An Internati'),(3232,'105','Effect of Growing Media for Establishment and Growth of Miniatures Roses (Rosa chinensis Jacq.)','V. S. K. Keerthan Paruchuru, Urfi Fatmi and Devi Singh','93 Effect of Growing Media for Establishment and Growth of Miniatures Roses _Rosa chinensis Jacq._ V S K Keerthan Paruchuru.pdf','',1,'The proper medium selection has a significant role in the effective growth of ornamental flowers. The present study was carried out to assess the effect of growing media for establishment and growth of miniature roses (Rosa chinensis Jacq.) under Prayagraj agro-climatic condition in the Department of Horticulture, Naini Agricultural Institute, Sam Higginbottom University of Agriculture, Technology and Sciences, Prayagraj during the month of November 2020 to March 2021. The experiment was conducted in Factorial Completely Randomized Design with five varieties replicated thrice. The varieties used were Small Varte, Rise N Shine, Glory Glow, Glory of Jakpur and Single Bliss. The results revelled that variety Rise N Shine (V2) was significantly promising variety with respect to taller plants (33.74 cm), a greater number of branches (11.85), extreme plant spread (26.00 cm). Among the growing media M0 (Soil + Sand + FYM, 1:1:1 v/v), M1 (Soil + Cocopeat + Vermicompost, 1:1:1 v/v) and M2 (Soil','Miniature roses, growing media, varieties, growth, cocopeat, vermicompost, perlite.','From the foregoing study, it is concluded that medium M1 (Soil + Cocopeat + Vermicompost, 1:1:1 v/v) resulted in better vegetative growth of the plants with respect to plant height, number of branches, plant spread, leaf area. Among the varieties, Rise N Shine (V2) gave better growth and establishment in terms of plant height, number of branches and plant spread. The best interaction among the different varieties and growing media was found to be variety Rise N Shine and M1 (Soil + Cocopeat + Vermicompost, 1:1:1 v/v) and hence, for the growth and establishment it can be recommended for pot cultivation under Prayagraj agro climatic conditions.','-','Paruchuru, V. S. K. K., Fatmi, U. and Singh, D. (2021). Effect of Growing Media for Establishment and Growth of Miniatures Roses (Rosa chinensis Jacq.). Biological Forum â€“ An International Journal, 13(3a): 534-538.'),(3233,'105','Effect of Varying Levels of Dietary Energy on Proximate Composition in \r\nBreast Meat of Native Chicken\r\n','Kumaravel V.*, B. Mohan, A. Natarajan, N. Murali, P. Selvaraj and P. Vasanthakumar','94 Effect of Varying Levels of Dietary Energy on Proximate Composition in Dr. V. Kumaravel.pdf','',1,'Native chickens are reared under intensive system to meet out the demand for their meat and eggs. The optimum requirement of nutrients for profitable intensive farming besides gratify the perceived qualities and unique characteristics of native chicken. The present study was performed to study the effect of dietary levels of energy on breast meat proximate composition of Aseel native chicken under intensive system of management. Five experimental diets were formulated having energy levels of (ME) i.e., 2600, 2700, 2800, 2900 and 3000 kcal/kg with an iso-nitrogenous crude protein (CP) of 21 %. A total of 400-day old Aseel chicken chicks were randomly divided into five groups of eight replicates (four male and four female), each of 10 chicks. At the end of 15 weeks of the experiment, breast muscle samples were harvested for proximate analysis and data were subjected to statistical analysis. The increased energy level in T5 group (3000 ME kcal/kg) had significantly reduced crude protein p','Aseel native chicken, breast meat composition, energy density ','The varying energy diets had significant effect on fat and ash content in breast meat of Aseel chicken. The reduced fat per cent and increased ash content in breast meat was observed in T4 (2900 ME kcal/kg) group of male chicken. The increased fat, protein per cent and ash content in breast meat was observed in T2 (2600 ME kcal/kg) group of female Aseel chicken. These results indicating that an appropriate energy level may be chosen while formulating diet for male and female Aseel native chicken to enhance the nutritive value and quality of meat. Further studies are warranted on influence of various dietary nutrients on fatty acid profile, mineral content and other nutrient composition of native chicken meat.','-','Kumaravel, V., Mohan, B., Natarajan, A., Murali, N., Selvaraj, P. and Vasanthakumar, P. (2021). Effect of varying levels of dietary energy on proximate composition in breast meat of native chicken. Biological Forum â€“ An International Journal, 13(3a): 5'),(3234,'105','Effect of Sowing Date and Irrigation on Leaf Area Index and Biomass of Mustard Cultivars','Krishna Kumar Sudhansu, Deb Kumar Das, Joydeep Mukherjee, Vinay Kumar Sehgal and Kalikinkar Bandyopadhyay','95 Effect of Sowing Date and Irrigation on Leaf Area Index and Biomass of Mustard Cultivars Krishna Kumar Sudhansu.pdf','',1,'Indian mustard (Brassica juncea L.) is a long day plant, which requires fairly cool climatic condition during growth and development. A field experiment was conducted during the rabi season of 2020-21 at IARI farm with three mustard cultivars, viz., Pusa Vijay, Pusa Mustard-21 and Pusa Bold in Split plot design to study the influence of date of sowing and irrigation levels on Leaf Area Index (LAI) and biomass accumulation of mustard cultivars. Proper handling of plant canopy analyser for LAI reading and proper care and management for biomass sampling and drying were some of the challenges needed to account during the experiment. Timely sown crop has higher crop growth rate mainly due to high leaf area index which accumulated dry matter at a faster rate per unit leaf area per unit time and subsequently it decreased with delay in sowing. At the early vegetative phase, total dry matter (TDM) increased slowly but with the advancement of growth period there was rapid increase of TDM. LAI in','Indian Mustard, LAI, TDM, Date of sowing, Pusa Bold','The time of sowing and different level of irrigation affect the LAI and Biomass accumulation of the crop. LAI increased slowly, then rapidly from the rosette stage onwards, attaining peak during the pod formation stage and then sharply decline during the seed filling stage. The peak value of leaf area index (LAI) reduced significantly due to delay in sowings. Biomass accumulation also reduced significantly due to delay in sowings and when one irrigation was withdrawn at the seed filling stage, a significant reduction in final biomass was also found due to different irrigation levels.','-','Sudhansu, K.K., Das, D. K., Mukherjee, J., Sehgal, V.K. and Bandyopadhyay, K. (2021). Effect of Sowing Date and Irrigation on Leaf Area Index and Biomass of Mustard Cultivars. Biological Forum â€“ An International Journal, 13(3a): 544-549.'),(3236,'105','Effect of Combined Application of Different Coated Urea on Soil Chemical and Biological Properties in Inceptisols of Varanasi','Sachin Sharma, Ayush Bahuguna*, Janardan Yadav and Bharti Yadav','96 Effect of Combined Application of Different Coated Urea on Soil Chemical and Biological Properties in Inceptisols of Varanasi Sachin Sharma.pdf','',1,'','','','',''),(3237,'99','Machine Learning Algorithms for Software Assessment','Archana Chaudhary Thakur*','34 Machine Learning Algorithms for Software Assessment Archana Thakur.pdf','',1,'','','','',''),(3238,'105','Genetic Variation and Extent of Genetic Diversity in Urdbean [Vigna mungo (L.) Hepper]','Barsha Rani Barik, Devraj Lenka, Arjun Kumar Agarwal, Ankita Mishra, Gyanisha Nayak and Swapan Kumar Tripathy','97 Genetic Variation and Extent of Genetic Diversity in Urdbean [Vigna mungo _L._ Hepper] Swapan Kumar Tripathy.pdf','',1,'Urdbean is the third most important pulse crop in India. But, no significant breakthrough has been achieved for enhancing its productivity primarily due to narrow genetic variability. Therefore, a set of urdbean germplasm comprising 58 urdbean genotypes were characterized for genetic variability. Analysis of variance revealed highly significant differences among the genotypes for ten yield and yield attributing traits indicating the presence of considerable genetic variation in the experimental material. The GCV was lower than PCV for all traits, however, there was narrow difference in PCV and GCV, indicating the effect of environment in lesser frequency. Characters viz., plant height, number of branches/plant, number of clusters/plant, number of pods/plant and seed yield/plant showed high heritability in conjunction with high genetic advance, showing effects of additive gene action and providing ample scope for selection in segregating generations. Further, D2 statistics grouped the f','Blackgram, genetic variation, D2 statistics, genetic diversity.','The current investigation on variability and genetic diversity study in 58 urdbean genotypes revealed that there was ample variation in the material used for study. There were narrow differences between PCV and GCV in days to 50% flowering, days to maturity and plant height indicating lesser environmental influence on these characters. The fifty-eight genotypes were grouped into eight clusters based on D2 statistics and non-hierarchical Euclidean cluster analysis implying presence of high degree of genetic diversity among them. Highest inter-cluster distance was observed between cluster VI and VII, whereas lowest in between cluster IV and VI. So, selection of genotypes from diversely related clusters with respect to maximum inter-cluster distance can give rise to better transgressive recombinants in the follow-up generations. ','-','Barik, B.R., Lenka, D., Agarwal, A.K., Mishra, A., Nayak, G. and Tripathy, S.K. (2021). Genetic Variation and Extent of Genetic Diversity in Urdbean [Vigna mungo (L.) Hepper]. Biological Forum â€“ An International Journal, 13(3a): 556-561.'),(3239,'105','Glycemic Index and Glycemic Load of Traditional Rice Flakes (Salem District) of Tamil Nadu','P. Geetha','98 Glycemic Index and Glycemic Load of Traditional Rice Flakes _Salem District_ of Tamil Nadu Dr. P. Geetha.pdf','',1,'Now a days traditional rice varieties are gaining important because of its therapeutic value. The traditional rice varieties have low glycemic index. This study aimed to analyse the glycaemic index and glycaemic load of rice flakes from traditional rice variety of Salem District, Tamil Nadu. The traditional varieties of Salem District, mapillai samba and kavuni rice were selected and converted in to flakes and compared with milled rice flakes. The Glycemic Index (GI) and Glycemic Load (GL) were determined in all rice flakes. For the study, 15 non diabetic subjects were selected. Rice flakes were given as a test food and compared with control (glucose). The IAUC method was applied for blood glucose level method for every 30 minutes interval up to 1 Â½ hour. For statistical analysis of the glycaemic index and glycaemic load data paired T-test were used. The results showed that milled, mapillai samba and Kavuni rice flakes had glycaemic indexes of 75, 71.2 and 63.3 and glycaemic loads o','Glycemic Index, Glycemic Load, Traditional Rice Flakes, Diabetes mellitus,','This present study conveyed that the rice flakes prepared from traditional rice varieties especially red kavuni rice flakes released the blood sugar level slowly compared to milled rice flakes. All three rice flakes had less GI than control. So, this may very useful for an individual who are obesity and onset of diabetes. It is also increasing the ability of the cells to take up insulin. Based on this study other traditional rice varieties may be determined for its glycaemic index and glycaemic load.','-','Geetha, P. (2021). Glycemic Index and Glycemic Load of Traditional Rice Flakes (Salem District) of Tamil Nadu. Biological Forum â€“ An International Journal, 13(3a): 562-564.'),(3240,'102','Multivariate Based Diversity Analysis in Indian Mustard (Brassica juncea L.) Genotypes by Principle Component Analysis','Shubham Chakraborty, Awnish Kumar*, Chandan Kishore, Ravi Shankar Singh, Anil Kumar, Anand Kumar and Mankesh Kumar','118 Multivariate Based Diversity Analysis in Indian Mustard _Brassica juncea L._ Genotypes by Principle Component Analysis Awnish Kumar.pdf','',1,'Thirty three accessions including four checks of Indian mustard (Brasssica juncea L.) were evaluated in randomized block design having three replication for 10 quantitative characters to study the genetic diversity and correlation at Oilseed section, Bihar Agricultural University, Sabour, Bhagalpur. Multivariate based diversity analysis was determined in present research using Principle Component Analysis (PCA). To draw the inference for genetic diversity, data were recorded for ten quantitative traits viz. days to 50% flowering, days to maturity, plant height, Number of primary branches, Number of secondary branches per plant, Number of siliqua per plant, Siliqua length, Seed per siliqua, Test weight and Seed yield per plot. To estimate the relative contribution of each traits in total variability, principal component analysis was done. The analysis revealed the cumulative variability of 82.25 % expressed by the first five major axis. The eigen-value of the first principal component e','Genetic diversity; Indian mustard; PCA; germplasm.','Principal component analysis has found a few main characteristics that play a key role in categorizing the existing variation of the germplasm set. The number of primary branches, seeds per siliqua, siliqua per plant, and seed yield per plot in different principle components were shown to be the most essential for accounting the variance. Hence, these traits must be given due importance while selecting genotypes for varietal development. Since, variability in any population is the main component of any breeding programme and presence of genetic variability is a must for crop breeding. As a result of the findings, the high degree of genetic diversity among genotypes was observed, as well as the traits that contribute to this diversity. Hence, the results of this study will be more useful in selecting promising parents for enhancing different morphological characteristics that affect yield in Brassica juncea.','-','Chakraborty, S., Kumar, A., Kishore, C., Singh, R.S., Kumar, A., Kumar, A. and Kumar, M. (2021). Multivariate Based Diversity Analysis in Indian Mustard (Brassica juncea L.) Genotypes by Principle Component Analysis. Biological Forum â€“ An International '),(3241,'105','Effect of Smoke on Mortality against Pulse Beetle, Callosobruchus chinensis (linnaeus) in Smoke Treated Stored Pulses','Anamika Kumari and Usha Yadav','99 Effect of Smoke on Mortality against Pulse Beetle, Callosobruchus chinensis _linnaeus_ in Smoke Treated Stored Pulses Anamika Kumari.pdf','',1,'The studies on the effect of smoke on mortality of stored pulses against pulse beetle, Callosobruchus chinensis (L.) were carried out to know the impact of different smokes on percent mortality of the pest of treated pulse seeds. The pulses used in this experiment was green gram, black gram and red gram. The experiments conducted on the effect of smoke generated by burning plant and animal origin by-products on mortality of adults of C. chinensis at 1, 12, 24, 48, 72, 96 and 120 h exposure to smoke under airtight conditions resulted in 50.98 percent after 120h of exposure to mustard seed cake followed by karanj seed cake (50.59), cow dung cake (37.15), neem seed cake (33.26) and wheat husk smoke (28.43). Therefore, present laboratory studies clearly showed that plant and animal origin by-products smoke were found quite effective against pulse beetle, C. chinensis without causing any deleterious effect on quality parameters of pulse seeds. These botanical products which were used as smo','Stored pulses, Smoke, Pulse beetle, Callosobruchus, Insect mortality','The results obtained during this course of investigation showed that smoke generated from burnt mustard seed cake has potential to protect pulse commodities viz., green gram, black gram and red gram grains against pulse beetle C. chinensis at 120h exposure to smokes. It was followed by neem seed cake and Karanj seed cake smokes. Further, it has also been concluded that smokes were more effective during the initial stages of insect growth. It has also been concluded that among all the plant and animal origin by-products, smoke from mustard seed cake was found to be the most effective on adult mortality of pulse beetle. As being natural, easily available, eco- friendly, cost effective and easy to adopt by small scale farmers, these plant and animal origin by-products can therefore be used as safe alternatives to synthetic insecticides and conventional harmful fumigants under storage conditions. In future course of time, using smoke derived from various plant and animal origin products ca','-','Kumari , A. and Yadav, U. (2021). Effect of Smoke on Mortality against Pulse Beetle, Callosobruchus chinensis (linnaeus) in Smoke Treated Stored Pulses. Biological Forum â€“ An International Journal, 13(3a): 565-569.'),(3242,'105','Performance of Cowpea (Vigna unguiculata (L.) Walp.) Genotypes in Vidarbha Region of Maharashtra\r\n\r\n','Mali V.V. *, Kale V.S., Nagre P.K., Sonkamble A.M., Jadhav P.V. and Hadole S.S.','Performance of Cowpea _Vigna unguiculata _L._ Walp._ Genotypes in Vidarbha Region of Maharashtra Vipul Vilas Mali.pdf','',1,'Cowpea has been recognized as one of the most important leguminous crops. The agro-climatic conditions of Vidarbha region of Maharashtra have a better future prospect for its commercial cultivation. The evaluation of genotypes has a key role for the successful cultivation as the growth and yield characters are greatly influenced by different climatic conditions. Hence the present investigation was carried out during the summer season in the year 2019. The study was undertaken on 30 genotypes of cowpea using a randomized block design with three replications. Results showed that the genotypes varied in all growth, yield and yield attributing parameters. Among these 30 genotypes the highest plant height was recorded in Vu-5 (126.56 cm) whereas the lowest plant height was observed in the genotype Pusa Sukomal (45.97 cm). The genotype AKCP-SR-3 was found to be early that started flowering early (42.18 days) whereas AKCP-6 was a late genotype which started flowering late (60.27 day',' Cowpea, Genotypes, Evaluation, Flowering, Growth, Yield.','From the present investigation it can be concluded that all the characters viz., growth parameters, flowering behavior, yield and yield attributing characters, pod parameters were varied significantly. Considering flowering behavior, AKCP-SR-3 found to be the earliest. The genotype AKCP-8-2-1-1 recorded the highest yield per plant and hectare. AKCP-8-2-1-1 also recorded the highest pod length. Thus, on the basis of growth characters, flowering behaviour, yield and yield attributing characters and pod parameters AKCP-8-2-1-1 was found to be promising.','-','Mali, V.V., Kale V.S., Nagre, P.K., Sonkamble, A.M., Jadhav P.V. and Hadole S.S. (2021). Performance of Cowpea (Vigna unguiculata (L.) Walp.) Genotypes in Vidarbha Region of Maharashtra. Biological Forum â€“ An International Journal, 13(3a): 570-574.'),(3243,'105','A Review of the Epidemiological, Clinical, and Pathological Aspects of Malignant Catarrhal Fever','Neeraj Kumar, M.K. Verma*, Anand Kumar Singh, Javid Ur Rahman, \r\nJayshree Jakhar and Sachin Patidar\r\n','A Review of the Epidemiological, Clinical, and Pathological Aspects of Malignant Catarrhal Fever M. K. Verma.pdf','',1,'Malignant catarrhal fever is a severe viral disease that affects a variety of domestic and wild ruminants. It is caused by group of Gammaherpes viruses. Each virus is well-adapted to its natural host, and is normally carried asymptomatically in reservoir hosts, but it can cause severe disease in other species. There is no successful treatment for MCF, and the case fatality rate is extremely high. Outbreaks are common in some areas, where cattle are seasonally exposed to the wildebeest associated virus during peak replication periods. Currently, the only effective control measures are to isolate susceptible species from carriers or to breed virus-free reservoir hosts.','MCF, Gamma Herpesviruses, Alcelaphine herpesvirus-1, Ovine herpesvirus-2.','MCF is a fascinating and important disease with many unanswered questions about transmission, sporadic incidence, and pathogenesis. Since there is currently no effective treatment for MCF, disease management is solely based on prevention and control. The only effective strategy is to limit contact between MCF-susceptible species and natural hosts of the viruses, which is being made almost impossible by encroachment and settlement of wildlife areas. Vaccine production, efficient and prompt confirmatory diagnosis and genetic studies of WA-MCF may all be part of a three-pronged approach to integrated control of WA-MCF. Both wildebeest and sheep of any age should be considered possible sources of infection. Even though the mode of transmission is not well known, it is still best to avoid direct contact or indirect contact by personnel or fomites. Separation from sheep is important in the case of highly susceptible species like Bali cattle. It is necessary to conduct systematic and ongoing ','-','Kumar, N., Verma, M.K., Singh, A.K., Rahman, J.U., and Jakhar, J. Patidar, S. (2021). A Review of the Epidemiological, Clinical, and Pathological Aspects of Malignant Catarrhal Fever. Biological Forum â€“ An International Journal, 13(3a): 575-583.'),(3244,'105','Correlation Association in Litchi (Litchi chinensis Sonn.) for Panicle, Fruit Set and Quality Attributes','Narayan Lal*, Abhay Kumar and S.D. Pandey','Correlation Association in Litchi Litchi chinensis Sonn. for Panicle, Fruit Set and Quality Attributes Narayan Lal.pdf','',1,' Litchi bears fruits on panicle and its characteristics significantly affect fruit set and quality of fruits. Weak panicle exhibits very poor fruit set and quality which is one of the major challenges. Therefore, an experiment was conducted to assess the relationship among panicle, fruit set and quality of litchi in 2017 and 2018 at ICAR-National Research Centre on Litchi, Muzaffarpur, Bihar. Ten years old cultivars of litchi Mandaraji, Rose Scented and Seedless Late were selected and experiment was laid out in randomized block design (RBD) with three replications. Results revealed that there was a strong correlation between the length and width of panicle in cultivar Shahi (0.97), China (0.93) and Late Bedana (0.59).The length of panicle was highly and positively correlated with fruit set in cultivar China (0.92), Shahi (0.82) and Late Bedana (0.87). A strong correlation between girth of panicle and fruit set was also observed in Shahi (0.94), Late Bedana (0.81) and China (0.',' Cultivars, correlation, panicle length, panicle girth, fruit set, litchi.','The length of panicle exerted a positive correlation with width and girth of panicle which has significant role in carrying maximum number of fruits per panicle at harvest. Irrespective of cultivars, length and girth of panicle exerted a positive influence on fruit set. However, in Shahi, length of panicle rather than girth of panicle played a great role in determining fruit set while in Late Bedana, both length and girth of panicle were crucial for fruit set. For genetic improvement in litchi, emphasis should be given on improvement of length and girth of panicle. This study provide insights to litchi breeder in selecting promising genotypes during selection with consideration of panicle length and girth.','-','Lal, N., Kumar, A. and Pandey, S.D. (2021). Correlation Association in Litchi (Litchi chinensis Sonn.) for Panicle, Fruit Set and Quality Attributes. Biological Forum â€“ An International Journal, 13(3a): 584-590.'),(3245,'105','Study on Combining Ability for Selection of Superior Parents and Crosses in Yellow Sarson','Sameer Chaturvedi, Neha Dahiya*, Usha Pant, Preeti Lohani and A.K. Singh','Study on Combining Ability for Selection of Superior Parents and Crosses in Yellow Sarson Neha Dahiya.pdf','',1,'Yellow sarson is the premium oilseeds crop because of having high oil content with good shelf quality. The crop has been not explored much as not grown in extensive area across country. Crop is cultivated mostly in northern and eastern part of country. Not much improvement work has been done in yellow sarson and there is ample scope for its improvement and further exploitation. In the present investigation parents were evaluated on the basis of their combining ability and identified to be used as parent in the breeding programme.\r\nFourteen parents were selected on the basis of their performance and diversity. 10 were taken as female lines and 4 as testers. 40 crosses were made and crosses along with parental line were evaluated on RBD. Results revealed the presence of dominance for all the traits. The average degree of dominance indicated the presence of non-fixable gene action. Narrow sense heritability (h2n) found low for all the traits which further confirmed the prevale','Yellow sarson, Combining ability, Genetic component.','On the basis of research finding and discussion obtained from the present investigation, non-additive genetic variance was found to be more prominent as compare to additive genetic variance for most of the characters which suggested perceptible advance of maintaining heterozygosity or restoring it at the end of the breeding programme. Potential parents and crosses have been identified based on relevant multiple parameters. The parents can be utilized as donor for specific trait and crosses can be utilized through heterosis breeding by adopting most appropriate breeding strategies suggested during the study for overall improvement of yellow sarson. A long term breeding programme can also be initiated where the selective parents can be involved for improvement of specific character. Pedigree method can be practiced to have desirable outcome with maximum improvement. \r\nFuture scope: Combining ability analysis is an excellent method for identification of parents for development of heterot','-','Chaturvedi, S., Dahiya, N., Pant, U., Lohani, P. and Singh, A.K. (2021). Study on Combining Ability for Selection of Superior Parents and Crosses in Yellow Sarson. Biological Forum â€“ An International Journal, 13(3a): 000-000.'),(3246,'105','Studies on Engineering Properties of Maize for Development of Maize Dehusker Cum Sheller','Atul R. Dange, R.K. Naik, A.K. Dave and Geeta Patel*','Studies on Engineering Properties of Maize for Development of Maize Dehusker cum Sheller Geeta Patel.pdf','',1,'The study has been conducted to investigate the physical and engineering properties of popularly grown varieties for maize seed, cob and whole cob. BIO-22027, JK-502 and Pioneer-3396 varieties were selected for the study within the moisture range of 10 to 14 % (d.b). The linear dimensions i.e. length, width, thickness and geometric mean diameter (GMD) of maize grain increased with increase in moisture content for all three varieties. However, the highest length, width and thickness were observed for the Pioneer-3396 variety as 11.73 mm, 8.99 mm 6.12 mm and 7.15 mm respectively. However, the highest sphericity, TGW and true density were observed as 0.728, 209.65g and 1.64g/cmÂ³, respectively at moisture content of 14 % for the Pioneer-3396 Variety. Bulk density of maize grain and cob decrease with increase in moisture content.The highest angle of repose, coefficient of friction at MS sheet, rubber and glass surface, terminal velocity for grain and cob were observed 25.51Ëš, 0.','physical property, maize seed, maize cob, moisture content, engineering properties.','It was concluded that the mean value of linear dimensions like length, width, thickness and geometric mean diameter (GMD), sphericity, true density of maize seed increased with increase in moisture content for all three varieties. Whereas bulk density of maize grain and cob decrease with increase in moisture content However, the highest true density and lowest value of bulk density of grain and cob were observed for the Pioneer-3396 of maize as 1700 kg/m3, 0.70 g/cm3 and 370.17 kg/m3 respectively at moisture content of 14 %.\r\n2. The highest angle of repose, coefficient of friction at GI sheet, MS sheet and plywood surface, terminal velocity were observed 25.51Â°, 0.54, 0.56, 0.43, 15.06 m/s and 1.57 m/s at 15 % moisture content.\r\n3. The maximum rupture force required to deform the maize grain and cob was found to be 18747.63 g (183.85 N), and 26825.28 g (262.88 N). \r\n4. The mean value of physical property of whole maize cob diameter and length was found at bottom, middle and top was','-','Dange, A.R., Naik, R.K., Dave, A.K. and Patel, G. (2021). Studies on Engineering Properties of Maize for Development of Maize Dehusker Cum Sheller. Biological Forum â€“ An International Journal, 13(3a): 598-604.'),(3247,'105','Influence of Different Weed Management Practices on Broad Leaf Weeds and their effect on economics of Wheat (Triticum aestivum L.).','Shubham Singh Rana, Prithvi Raj*, Rajesh Kumar, Kuldeep Singh,\r\nHimanshu Verma and Ravikesh Kumar Pal','Influence of Different Weed Management Practices on Broad Leaf Weeds and their Effect on economics of Wheat Triticum aestivum L.. Prithvi Raj.pdf','',1,' A field experiment was conducted during rabi, season of 2016-17 at Crop Research Station, Masodha, Ayodhya (U.P.). The experiment consisting of Eleven treatments was laid out in randomized block design with three replications. The crop was infested with the divergent type of weed flora e.g. Phalaris minor, Fumaria parviflora and Cynodondactylon of grassy, Chenopodium album, Convonvulus arvensis, Anagallis arvensis, Melilotus alba and Solanum nigrum of broad-leaved and Cyperus rotundus, Cyprus iria and Cyprus difformis of sedges group. The sowing of wheat variety NW-5054 (Narendra wheat 5054) was done on 22th November 2016, and harvesting was done on 10th April, 2017. The results revealed that Metsulfuron + Carfentrazone @ 4 + 20 g ha-1 and Halauxifen-methyl Ester +Florasulam 40.85% WG + Polyglycol 26-2N @ 12.76 g ha-1 gave higher weed control efficiency (85.51%, 84.30%), lower weed index (3.75%, 5.85%) respectively. Among of all treatments recorded higest Benefit Cast ratio i',' Benefit-cost ratio, post-emergence herbicides application, total weed density, weed control efficiency and weed index.','Based on the results obtained from this research that application of Metsulfuron + Carfentrazone @ 4 + 20 g ha-1 followed by post emergence application of Halauxifen - methyl ester + Florasulam + Polyglycol @\r\n12.76 g ha-1 30 DAS was the best herbicide combination and can be recommended for wheat in enhancing grain yield in terms of lower weed population, lower weed dry matter, high weed control efficiency and low in weed index ultimately resulting in higher benefit cost ratio.\r\n','-','Rana, S.S., Raj, P., Kumar R., Singh, K., Verma, H. and Pal, R.K. (2021). Influence of Different Weed Management Practices on Broad Leaf Weeds and their Effect on economics of Wheat (Triticum aestivum L.). Biological Forum â€“ An International Journal, '),(3248,'106','Oxidation of Unsaturated Alcohols by N-chlorosaccharin in Micellar \r\nMedium ','Mamta Agnihotri and Saras Tiwarii','3 Oxidation of Unsaturated Alcohols by N-chlorosaccharin in Micellar Medium Mamta Agnihotri.pdf','',1,'The oxidative degradation of two unsaturated alcohols such as crotyl and cinnamyl alcohols with N-chlorosaccharin (NCSA) in aqueous acetic acid and micellar medium was accompanied through the complex formation stoichiometrically 1:1. The rate first-order with respect to oxidant concentration was determined. The rate of oxidation with micellar CTAB was found much faster than rate determined in case of an acid. The author formulated H2O+Cl active species of the oxidant lead the postulated hypothesis of the mechanism with fission of C-H bonds supported by thermodynamic parameters. ','Crotyl alcohol, Cinnamyl alcohol, CTAB, N-chlorosaccharin, oxidation','','',''),(3249,'105','Evaluation of Water Stress Resilient Endophytic Bacteria for Seed Vigor Index and Antagonistic activity in Maize (Zea mays L.)','Uma Sowjanya Moturu*, Trimurtulu Nunna, Vijaya Gopal Avula, Venkata Ramana Jagarlamudi, Rama Rao Gutha and Sreelatha Thamminana','106 Evaluation of Water Stress Resilient Endophytic Bacteria for Seed Vigor Index and Antagonistic activity in Maize Zea mays L. Uma Sowjanya Moturu.pdf','',1,' For maize productivity water deficit stress is the major abiotic limitation and disease is one of the major biotic stresses that declines crop yield and furthermore deteriorate the quality of product that ultimately affects the market cost. Plants are more contingent on microorganisms which are capable to enhance their metabolic activity to combat stress. Thus, present study was aimed to screen maize endophytic bacteria for their osmotolerance and antagonistic activity in in vitro conditions. The endophytes with less per cent of decreased growth at all treated water potential (-0.05, -0.65, - 1.57, -2.17 and -2.70 MPa) in nutrient agar supplemented with PEG 6000 are found to be Kosakonia radicincitans (NL3E3), Priestia aryabhattai (PL3E2) and Bacillus licheniformis (VaR3E1). The maximum antagonistic activity against pathogenic fungi Rhizoctonia solani was shown by the bacterial isolates K. radicincitans (96%) and P. aeruginosa (96%), against Fusarium oxysporium 92% of mycel','Endophytic bacteria, Osmotolerance, Antagonistic activity, Seed vigor','To cope with the biotic and abiotic stress against plant growth various approaches have been under consideration including plant-microbe interactions. The endophytic bacteria with less per cent of decreased growth at all treated water potential are found to be Kosakonia radicincitans, Priestia aryabhattai and Bacillus licheniformis. For all the three (Rhizoctonia solani, Fusarium oxysporium and Exserohilum turcicum) tested pathogenic fungi Bacillus licheniformis and Pseudomonas aeruginosa were found to inhibit the fungal mycelium growth at high rate. And many isolates have improved seedling growth and germination percentage significantly. From our in vitro results, we can conclude that plants may survive and grow even under moisture deficit stress and biotic stress as endophytes have adapted to function in effective way under stress conditions. But it has become essential to evaluate true efficiency of isolates under stressed environment. Thus, influence of isolates under field conditi','-','Moturu, U.S., Nunna, T., Avula, V.G., Jagarlamudi, V.R., Gutha, R.R. and Tamminana, S. (2021). Evaluation of Water Stress Resilient Endophytic Bacteria for Seed Vigor Index and Antagonistic Activity in Maize (Zea mays L.). Biological Forum â€“ An Internat'),(3250,'105','Effect of Modified Atmosphere Package on Chemicals and Sensory Qualities of Pomegranate Fruits under Low Temperature Storage','Nasir Ahmad Sahel, Krishna H.C., Sadanand K. Mushrif *, Bhuvaneswari S., Manjunatha Reddy T.B., Ahmad Shafiq Foshanji and Dinakara Adiga','107 Effect of Modified Atmosphere Package on Chemicals and Sensory Qualities of Pomegranate Fruits Under Low Temperature Storage Sadanand K. Mushrif.pdf','',1,' Pomegranate fruits are nutrient dense, attractive, appealing and are popular across the region and demographics. The fruits are good source of vitamin C, antioxidants and polyphenols and hence commands excellent marketability. Consumersâ€™ increasing demand is of convenient and fresh quality fruits. The modified atmosphere packaging technology thus has been designed to maintain the nutritional and sensory quality and to enhance the storage life of pomegranate fruit. Studies were conducted to investigate the effect of modified atmosphere packaging (MAP) materials on ascorbic acid, total anthocyanin, antioxidant property and sensory qualities of pomegranate fruits under low temperature storage. Fruits were picked up from field, cleansed with sodium hypochlorite and dried. Later, they were categorized and fruits of uniform size were selected. Various types of packaging materials viz. polyethylene, polypropylene, XtendÂ® bags and Silver nano bags were used for packing the fruits.',' Anthocyanin, Ascorbic acid, MAP, Pomegranate, Sensory quality, Storage.','Pomegranate fruits packed in different MAP bags and stored in low temperature (7Â±2Â°C and relative humidity of 90Â±5 %) were found to have prolonged storage life, retained chemical properties and had better sensory score. Fruits packed in Silver nano bags were identified best for maintaining quality as they recorded highest sensory score (6.50) after 100 days of storage while unpacked fruits recorded lowest score (5.25) on 40DAS. MAP bags could extend the storage period of pomegranate fruits as long as 100 days and shelf life 4-5 days compared to unpacked fruits which had only 40 days storage life. This extended shelf life of fresh fruits shall be beneficial in long distance transportation or storing pomegranate fruits during surplus and return to the market during lean period to meet the market demands. This helps both growers and consumers in obtaining good quality produce for greater geographical area and to avoid demand supply mismatch.','-','Sahel, N.A., Krishna, H.C., Mushrif, S.K., Bhuvaneswari, S., Manjunatha Reddy T.B., Foshanji, A.S. and Adiga, D. (2021). Effect of Modified Atmosphere Package on Chemicals and Sensory Qualities of Pomegranate Fruits Under Low Temperature Storage. Biologic'),(3251,'105','Effect of Plant Growth Regulator on Flowering and Yield Attributes of Papaya','Bigyananda Mutum*, Utpal Maity, Satyananda Basak, Bijoy Laya and Salam Dayaprakash Singh','108 Effect of Plant Growth Regulator on Flowering and Yield Attributes of Papaya Bigyananda Mutum.pdf','',1,' The present investigation was carried out to assess the effect of plant growth regulator on flowering and fruit yield attributes of Papaya plant Pusa dwarf (Carica papaya) during 2017-18 at Experimental Farm of Horticulture field of Uttar Banga Krishi Viswavidyalya, Cooch Behar. The experiment was laid out in the Randomized Blocked Design (RBD) with fourteen treatment combinations replicated thrice. The observation was recorded during the trial experiment on the Number of flowering, percentage of the male and female flower, days required from flowering to maturity, number of fruit bear in a plant, the weight of the fruits, percentage of fruit set, bearing height of first fruit, and yield. Pusa dwarf being an outsource cultivar, its hardening stage was regularly mandated for about 2 weeks until it was fully established. The study indicates that the growth, yield, and quality of papaya fruits were significantly influenced by plant growth regulators. The treatments considered we',' NAA (Naphthalene acetic acid), TIBA (Triiodobenzoic Acid), GA3 (Gibberellic acid), Brassinosteroids (BRs), Parts per million, foliar application, sex development; flower.','From this experiment, we can conclude that the application of â€œBrsâ€ has more positive effect on flowering and the yield attributes than TIBA, NAA and GA3. This was due to the physiological effect of brass inosteroids on flowering and fruit yield of the plant as a result of cell elongation and cell division. An increase in photosynthetic activity, better food accumulation, and an increase in the flowering parts especially the female part were due to the action of brass inosteroids.','-','Mutum, B., Maity, U., Basak, S., Laya, B. and Singh, S.D. (2021). Effect of Plant Growth Regulator on Flowering and Yield Attributes of Papaya. Biological Forum â€“ An International Journal, 13(3a): 627-630.'),(3252,'106','Evaluation of Energy Conservation Potential of Soft Starter Aided Electrical Motor Applied for Dairy Industry','Ashish Kumar D. Patel','4 Evaluation of Energy Conservation Potential of Soft Starter Aided Electrical Motor Applied for Dairy Industry Ashish.pdf','',1,'Electricity is the most vital utility used for any goods and service providing industry now-a-days. Electric motors are staple of industrial applications due to its distinct features like low cost, sturdy construction, high efficiency, and good power factor. Mostly induction motors are used to convert electrical energy into mechanical output. Over the times, three phase general purpose motors have established an uncanny knack for providing a plethora of utilities on the go. To operate three phase induction motor, it requires a starting device called a starter. In present study, a three phase induction motor widely utilized in dairy processing was operated with soft starter under different load conditions and load cycles/hr. It was very difficult to measure the effect of variable load on energy consumption of motor which requires a suitable load varying mechanism, but with a few engineering interventions in experimental set-up it has been possible to operate the motor under variable loa','Soft starter, Novel starting methods, Energy conservation in Dairy Industry, Energy Saving, Motor starting device, Motor Voltage Control','','',''),(3253,'99','Factors Influencing Customer Satisfaction while Purchasing Online Grocery Shopping: A Case Study of UAE','Hena Iqbal* and Khaliquzzaman Khan','35 Factors Influencing Customer Satisfaction while Purchasing Online Grocery Shopping A Case Study of UAE Dr HINA IQBAL.pdf','',1,'ABSTRACT: This is the first study of its type in the UAE, examining the uptake and use of online grocery shopping. It suggests expanding the technological acceptance paradigm to include subjective standards, exposure, risk, and user satisfaction.\r\nSome customers prefer online retailing through home delivery or â€œclick and collect,â€ convenience stores, and different hybrid shopping platforms, whereas others do not. When it comes to understanding current and upcoming trends in food shopping, focusing on the â€œordinary grocery shopperâ€ isnâ€™t too effective. The main characteristics of these segments show that customers are drawn or denied shopping online. Convenience, potential advantages, costs and angers, technological effects, and time constraints are all factors to consider.\r\nEase of use, efficacy, and willingness to use all have a statistically significant impact on online shopping acceptability, according to the research. Visibility and risk had little effect on the usefulnes','Keywords: Convenience, Compulsion, Click and Collect, E-commerce, Efficacy, Hybrid Shopping.','','',''),(3255,'105','Efficacy of Essential oil Against Early Blight (Alternaria solani) of Tomato (Lycopersicon esculentum Mill.)','Rajshree Karanwal*, Sobita Simon and Abhilasha A. Lal','109 Efficacy of Essential oil Against Early Blight _Alternaria solani of Tomato Lycopersicon esculentum Mill. Rajshree Karanwal.pdf','',1,'Early blight caused by Alternaria solani is serious disease in tomato growing areas and occur as a pre â€“ harvest as well as post â€“ harvest brown to black spots appears on the leaves of tomato. Thyme essential oil at different concentrations (0.5%, 0.75%, 1.0% and 1.25%) along with mancozeb were tested at 0.25% in-vivo during Rabi 2020 â€“ 2021 for their efficacy against disease incidence, plant growth and yield parameters of tomato at the Central Research Field of the Department of Plant Pathology, Sam Higginbottom University of Agriculture, Technology and Sciences, Prayagraj. The results of the present investigation revealed that significantly reduced the disease incidence. Among the treatments the minimum disease intensity (%) at 75 DAT was recorded in T_3 â€“ Thyme essential oil @ 1.0% (25.51%). The maximum plant height (cm) of tomato was significantly increased in T_3 â€“ Thyme essential oil @ 1.0% (60.18cm) and maximum number of branches was significantly recorded in','Alternaria solani, Early blight, tomato, thyme essential oil.','The in-vivo studies revealed that minimum disease intensity (%) of tomato crop at 30, 45, 60 and 75 DAT, the maximum plant height, number of branches and maximum total yield (t/ha) were recorded in treatment T_3 â€“ Thyme essential oil @ 1.0%. The findings of the present experiment are limited to one crop season (December 2020 to March 2021) under Prayagraj Agro-climatic conditions, as such to validate present findings more such trials should be carried out in future. As application of essential oil is applicable, safe and cost effective method for controlling such foliar diseases. Also, the use of essential oils in agriculture could be a suitable alternative for inclusion in disease control systems and do not leave a toxic residue in the product.','-','Karanwal, R., Simon, S. and Lal, A.A. (2021). Efficacy of Essential oil Against Early Blight (Alternaria solani) of Tomato (Lycopersicon esculentum Mill.). Biological Forum â€“ An International Journal, 13(3a): 631-634.'),(3256,'104','Pterula bambusicola sp. nov.: A clavarioid bambusicolous macro-fungal species from North Eastern region of India','Vipin Parkash','4_JNBR_10_2__2021.pdf','',1,'A clavarioid bambusicolous fungus Pterula bambusicola sp. nov. from North Eastern region of India is\r\ndescribed, illustrated and discussed with closely allied species. This fungal species is a new species\r\ncharacterized by the white basidiomes, polychotomously unbranched, dichotomously white to milky white at the\r\napex with acute apices and having cylindrical, smooth basidiospores and hyphoid to dextrinoid cylindrical\r\ncystidia with short mucornulate apex.','Basidiomes, clavarioid fungi, fungal diversity, macrofungi, taxonomy.','','',''),(3257,'105','Effect of Different Varieties and Row Spacing on Growth and Yield of Pearl Millet (Pennisetum glaucum L.)','Sudheer Ghuraiya*, Rajesh Singh and Ekta Singh','Effect of Different Varieties and Row Spacing on Growth and Yield of Pearl Millet Pennisetum glaucum L. Sudheer Ghuraiya.pdf','',1,'A field experiment was conducted during Zaid (2021) at Crop Research Farm, Department of Agronomy, SHUATS, Prayagraj (U.P.). The soil was sandy loam in texture, nearly neutral in soil reaction (pH 6.7). Medium in organic carbon (0.72%), available nitrogen (114.8 kg ha-1), available phosphorus (17.14 kg ha-1), available potassium (156.2 kg ha-1). The experiment was laid out in Randomized Block Design with nine treatments each replicated thrice. The treatments which are with T1: 30 cm Ã— 15 cm + JBV-2, T2: 45 cm Ã— 15 cm + JBV-3, T3: 60 cm Ã— 15 cm + JBV-4, T4: 30 cm Ã— 15 cm + JBV-3, T5: 45 cm Ã—15 cm + JBV-4, T6: 60 cm Ã— 15 cm + JBV-2, T7: 30 cm Ã— 15 cm + JBV-4, T8: 45 cm Ã— 15 cm + JBV-2, T9: 60 cm Ã— 15 cm + JBV-3. The results showed that plant height (192.1 cm), dry weight (1.17 g/plant), crop growth rate (22.52 g-1 (m2)-1 plant), Relative growth rate (0.027) leaf area index (4.41) and Ear head length (29.72/plant) were found significantly higher with 45cm Ã— 15 cm+ JBV-','Varieties, Spacing, Nitrogen, Phosphorus, Potassium, Pearl millet.','On the basis of one Zaid season experimentation, it was concluded that the different variety and spacing. With the recommended dose (RDF), NPK and T5 (45cm Ã— 15 cm+V3) this spacing and this variety was found more productive with B:C ratio of (2.79).','-','Ghuraiya, S., Singh, R. and Singh, E. (2021). Effect of Different Varieties and Row Spacing on Growth and Yield of Pearl Millet (Pennisetum glaucum L.). Biological Forum â€“ An International Journal, 13(3a): 635-638.'),(3258,'105','Potential Utilization of Liquorice Extract as Natural Preservative for Tuna Fish during Chilled Storage','Aditya Singh*, S.P. Patel and A.R. Dodia','111 Potential Utilization of Liquorice Extract as Natural Preservative for Tuna Fish during Chilled Storage Aditya Singh.pdf','',1,'Liquorice or Mulethi/Jethimadh/Yastimadhu scientifically known as Glycyrrhiza glabra is the most commonly used medicinal plant. It is popular within pharmaceutical industry as well as in household for its anti-inflammatory, anti-microbial and anti-tyrosinase activity. All these properties of liquorice are contribution of its different constituents. Availability of Liquorice extract is major challenge that we overcame. Out of which Glycyrrhizin which is anti-oxidant in nature has been used to prevent oxidation in tuna fish. Out of three solutions the tuna chunks dipped in 5% and 10% solutions depicted more freshness when measured with Torrymeter by the end of 9 days compared to control sample. Sensory evaluation indicated that both dipped samples outperformed control sample.','Liquorice, Anti-inflammatory, Anti-microbial, Anti-tyrosinase, Glycyrrhizin, Oxidation, Torrymeter','In this research the effect of herbal extract made from Glycyrrhiza glabra on tuna fish was investigated. There was no significant difference in rate of weight loss but slight difference in pH was observed where T3 was slightly basic as compared to T2 and T1. Freshness increased after treatment and was much higher in treated samples T3 and T2 compared to T1. Liquorice extract increased the lightness of fish (T3), whereas itâ€™s decreased in control sample (T1). There is slight colour change in fish due to dark colour of tincture but it compensates for the bearable odour of treated samples. Overall, at the end of 8th day sample T3 was more acceptable than T2. Then T2 is much more ahead of control in terms of acceptability. \r\nThis experiment showed that extract prepared out of liquorice (Glycyrrhiza glabra) expanded the freshness of fish when compared to control. More refining of extract could have been done in order to reduce its effect on colour of fish flesh. But overall, the result ','-','Singh, A., Patel, S.P. and Dodia, A.R. (2021). Potential Utilization of Liquorice Extract as Natural Preservative for Tuna Fish during Chilled Storage. Biological Forum â€“ An International Journal, 13(3a): 639-642.'),(3259,'106','Generation Mean Analysis Studies in Cowpea (Vigna unguiculata L. Walp)','R.J. Shinde, V.N. Toprope, P.R. Sargar, V.R. Dhakne and Chavan S.S.','5 Generation Mean Analysis Studies in Cowpea _Vigna unguiculata L. Walp_ P.R. Sargar.pdf','',1,'In present investigation on generation mean analysis carried out study on components of variance in two safflower crosses. Except for days to 50% flowering in cross GDVC-2 Ã— LC-1 and pod length in both crosses, the estimate of significant simple scaling tests and joint scaling tests revealed the presence of epistatic gene effects for seed yield and its component characteristics in both crosses. Seed yield and its components were shown to be affected by both additive and non-additive genetic variations, with non-additive gene activity predominating. All three forms of non-allelic interactions contribute more to reducing alleles of dominance Ã— dominance (l) in various characteristics when it comes to epistasis effects. The majority of the characters had duplicate epistasis.','Cowpea, Gene action, Generation mean, Scaling Test','','',''),(3260,'105','Constraints faced by Agri-input Dealers in Dissemination of Information to Farmers','Shivam Kumar* and Subodh Kumar','112 Constraints faced by Agri-input Dealers in Dissemination of Information to Farmers Shivam Kumar.pdf','',1,'Agri-input dealers are the major source of farm related information in India. They provide various types of information, extension services, financial credit, etc to the farmers along with inputs. Various studies have reported that input-dealers play most prominent role in dissemination of a new technology but still very fewer studies have focused on agri-input dealers specifically. In our study 120 agri-input dealers were interviewed with the help of semi-structured questionnaire for their challenges faced by them while providing proper quality of inputs and extension services to the farmers. A total six type of major constraints were identified viz. financial, challenges related to product performance, managerial constraints, challenges faced in delivery of extension services to the farmers, constraints in managing the farmerâ€™s problem and constraints in availability of inputs. Ranking of the challenges with the help of weighted means revealed that financial constraints w',' Product performance, managerial constraints, challenges, Semi-structured questionnaire','The study is conclusive of the fact that financial challenges are the major setback faced by the local agri-input dealers. Financial constraints were ranked first among all other challenges and majority of the input dealers were facing them. It also highlights the lacunae on the part of public sector banks in lending credit to the small input dealers. Failure in product performance is another problem faced by farmers and agri-input dealers leading to loss of credibility on the part of input dealers. Even when the dealers advise farmers in extension service, the farmers sometimes donâ€™t follow leading to managerial constraints. Other constraints include season ability of agri-input trade, timely unavailability of inputs, difficulty in providing extension services to the farmers and managing the problem of farmers','-','Kumar, S. and Kumar, S. (2021). Constraints faced by Agri-input Dealers in Dissemination of Information to Farmers. Biological Forum â€“ An International Journal, 13(3a): 643-648.'),(3261,'105','Impact of Nutrient Management on Yield and Economics of Pearl Millet (Pennisetum Glaucum L.)','Niteen Amarghade* and Rajesh Singh','113 Impact of Nutrient Management on Yield and Economics of Pearl Millet Pennisetum Glaucum L. Niteen Amarghade.pdf','',1,' A field experiment was conducted during zaid season 2021 at Crop Research Farm, Department of Agronomy, SHUATS, Prayagraj (U.P.) on sandy loam soil to investigate the impact of nutrient management on yield and economics of Pearl millet (Pennisetum Glaucum L.). The experiment was laid out in Randomized Block Design with seven treatments each replicated thrice. It was consisted of combination of two levels of inorganic sources I1 - (50% RDN), and I2 â€“ (75% RDN) and three levels of organic manure, O1 â€“ (50% FYM), O2 â€“ (50% Vermicompost), and O3 â€“ (50% Poultry manure). The treatment combinations are T1: 50% RDN + 50% FYM, T2: 50% RDN + 50% Vermicompost, T3: 50% RDN + 50% Poultry manure, T4: 75% RDN + 50% FYM, T5: 75% RDN + 50% Vermicompost, T6: 75% RDN + 50% Poultry manure, T7: 100-40-40 kg NPK/ha. Report of study indicate that, among different nutrient levels the application of 75% RDN with 50% Poultry manure produced significantly superior plant height (165. 67cm), plan',' Pearl millet, Recommended dose of nutrient, Poultry manure, Grain yield.','It is concluded that the application of 75% RDN with 50% poultry manure resulted higher plant height (165.67 cm), plant dry weight (75.81 g), CGR (20.96 g/m2/day), RGR (0.45 g/g/day), length of ear head/plant (24.81 cm), test weight (8.39 g), grain yield (3.18 t/ha), biological yield (9.56 t/ha), gross return (INR/ha 79500.00), net return (INR/ha 45953.47) and benefit cost ratio (1.36). Comparing the grain yield of pearl millet the application of 75% RDN with 50% Poultry manure had improved the grain yield of pearl millet by 69.18% compared to the control plots.','-','Amarghade, N. and Singh, R. (2021). Impact of Nutrient Management on Yield and Economics of Pearl Millet (Pennisetum Glaucum L.). Biological Forum â€“ An International Journal, 13(3a): 649-652.'),(3262,'105','Effect of Spacing and Nitrogen Management on Growth and Yield of Quinoa (Chenopodium quinoa L.)','Karasani Rajasekhar Reddy*, Rajesh Singh and Ektha Singh','114 Effect of Spacing and Nitrogen Management on Growth and Yield of Quinoa Chenopodium quinoa L. Karasani Rajasekhar Reddy.pdf','',1,' A field trial was conducted during Rabi 2020 at Crop Research Farm, Department of Agronomy, SHUATS, Prayagraj (U.P.). The soil was sandy loam in texture, approximately neutral in soil reaction (pH 7.1), low in organic carbon (0.36%), available Nitrogen (171.48 kg/ha), available Phosphorus (15.2 kg/ha) and available potassium (232.5 kg/ha). The treatments which are spacing of 20 Ã— 10 cm, 25 Ã— 10 cm and 30 Ã— 10 cm+ 100% RDN, 75%, 50% RDN through N+ 25%, 50% RDN by Vermicompompost + Azotobacter inoculation used. The trial was laid out in Randomized Block Design with 9 treatments each replicated thrice. The results revealed that plant height (122.13 cm), maximum dry weight (21.64 g), CGR (8.08 g/m2/day) and RGR (0.01) were recorded significantly in T8 which is with spacing of 30 Ã— 10 + 75 % RDN + 25 % N through VC + Azotobacter inoculation. The maximum no. of seeds/panicle (5957.36), grain yield (19.46 t/ha), test weight (2.05 g) and stover yield (23.34 t/ha) were recorded in','Spacing, Nitrogen management, growth, Yield, Vermicompost and Azotobacter','On the basis of one season of experimentation with of spacing with 30 Ã— 10 cm + 75% RDN+ 25% nitrogen through Vermicompost + Azotobacter inoculation was found more beneficial in terms of growth and yield parameters of quinoa suitable to grow under eastern Uttar Pradesh Conditions. ','-','Reddy, K.R., Singh, R. and Singh, E. (2021). Effect of Spacing and Nitrogen Management on Growth and Yield of Quinoa (Chenopodium quinoa L.). Biological Forum â€“ An International Journal, 13(3a): 653-656.'),(3263,'105','Influence of Nitrogen and Foliar Spray of Iron on Growth and yield of Safflower (Carthamus tinctorius L.)','M. Rakesh, Rajesh Singh and Ekta Singh','115 Influence of Nitrogen and Foliar Spray of Iron on Growth and yield of Safflower _Carthamus tinctorius L.pdf','',1,'To study the impact of nitrogen and iron on growth and yield attributes of rabi safflower, an experiment was carried out in 2020-21 Crop Research Form of SHUATS. The treatments consist of three levels of nitrogen soil application and three levels of iron foliar spray, experiment was laid out in randomized block design with nine treatments each replicated thrice. The result showed that viz., plant height (108.43 cm) and was recorded significantly higher with application of 50 kg/ha N + 0.3% iron foliar spray. Whereas, number of branches per plant (21.88), was recorded significantly higher with application of 50 kg/ha N + 0.6% iron foliar spray. The significantly higher dry weight (35.37 g/plant) and crop growth rate at 40-60 DAS (9.26 g/m2/day) was observed in 50 kg/ha N + 0.5% iron foliar spray treatment. Number of seeds per capitulum (22.18), seed yield (1427.7 kg/ha), stalk yield (3695.2 kg/ha) was recorded significantly higher with the application of 50 kg/ha N + 0.6% iron foliar sp','Nitrogen, iron foliar spray, safflower growth and yield attributes','It was concluded that, on the basis of present study application of 50 kg/ha N + 0.6% iron foliar spray recorded significantly maximum number of branches per plant (21.88), number of seeds per capitulum (22.18), seed yield (1427.7 kg/ha) and stalk yield (3695.2 kg/ha) respectively. These findings are based on one season; therefore, further trails may be required for further confirmation.','-','Rakesh, M., Singh, R. and Singh, E. (2021). Influence of Nitrogen and Foliar Spray of Iron on Growth and yield of Safflower (Carthamus tinctorius L.). Biological Forum â€“ An International Journal, 13(3a): 657-659.'),(3264,'105','Influence of Weather Parameters on Occurrence of Alternaria Leaf Spot of Cotton under High Density and Normal Planting Systems','Ch. Yamuna*, S.L. Bhattiprolu, V. Prasanna Kumari and Ch. Chiranjeevi','116 Influence of Weather Parameters on Occurrence of Alternaria Leaf Spot of Cotton under High Density and Normal Planting Systems Ch. Yamuna.pdf','',1,'The effect of weather factors on the development of Alternaria leaf spot in LHDP-1 variety was investigated during kharif 2018-2019 at Regional Agricultural Research Station, Lam farm, Guntur. The data on per cent disease index (PDI) of Alternaria leaf spot was recorded at three days interval under high density planting system (HDPS) and normal planting system (NPS) along with weather parameters. The disease appeared in the second week of Augustand reached peak of 29.71 PDI under HDPS as against 27.81 PDI under NPS during boll maturity stage. Significant positive correlation was observed with maximum temperature, sunshine hours and evaporation whereas evening relative humidity and rainfall showed significant negative correlation under HDPS. Under NPS maximum temperature, morning relative humidity, sunshine hours and evaporation showed significant positive correlation; evening relative humidity and rainfall showed significant negative correlation. From the full model regressio','Alternaria leaf spot, cotton, high density planting system, weather parameters.','Based on the present investigation to understand the influence of weather under HDPS it can be concluded that the development of Alternaria leaf spot had a positive correlation with maximum temperature, sunshine hours and evaporation; negative correlation with evening relative humidity. Relative humidity coupled with evaporation was critical for the progress of the disease under HDPS whereas number of rainy days, sun shine hours and wind speed also contributed for diseases development under NPS. This clearly indicates the role of spacing in disease dynamics.','-','Ch. Yamuna, Bhattiprolu, S.L., Kumari, V.P. and Ch. Chiranjeevi (2021). Influence of Weather Parameters on Occurrence of Alternaria Leaf Spot of Cotton under High Density and Normal Planting Systems. Biological Forum â€“ An International Journal, 13(3a):'),(3265,'105','Optimizing Nutrients Ratio for Enhancing the Tomato Productivity under Drip Fertigation','Minnu John*, M. Elayarajan, R. Swarna Priya and P. Janaki','117 Optimizing Nutrients Ratio for Enhancing the Tomato Productivity under Drip Fertigation Minnu John.pdf','',1,'The injudicious use of water and nutrients for crop production has emerged as a vital issue due to low fertilizer use efficiency and high cost besides having significant environmental contamination. Hence, the optimization of nutrients ratio for improving the productivity of Tomato Hybrid CO-3 through fertigation was investigated at TNAU, Coimbatore in a Completely Randomized Design with nine treatments each replicated thrice. Fertigation with 2:1:1 NPK @ 100% RDN resulted in minimum days to 50% flowering (66.4 days). Fertigation with 1:1:1 NPK @ 100% RDN with Ca and B significantly increased the total number of flowers per plant (108), total number of fruits per plant (51), yield per plant (2kg), fruit girth (15.57 cm), fruit length (7.37 cm), fruit weight (42.23 g) and fruit volume (45.4 cm3). Fertigation with 1:1:1 NPK @ 100% RDN with Ca and B recorded maximum uptake of N, P and K and fruit yield. This study revealed that the application of recommended dose of nitrogen, ph',' Fertigation, Nutrient Ratio, Tomato, Water Soluble Fertilizer.','The supply of right ratio of required nutrients at right time, in right amount using the right source is the key to produce high yield in crops and this was achieved in the present study through drip fertigation. The drip fertigated treatments headed the control treatments in the study, confirming its effect on the better performance of plant. The optimum ratio of NPK @ 1:1:1 with Ca and B nutrients supplied through drip fertigation resulted in enhanced fruit set, fruit size and uptake of major nutrients at different growth stages of the tomato Hybrid CO-3. The increased yield attributes and enhanced NPK uptake increased the tomato yield to the tune of 4.54 times. Therefore, the application of calcium and boron together with nitrogen, phosphorus and potassium @ 1:1:1 ratio at the right time through fertigation would be the best option for getting higher fruit yield with maximum net returns per unit area. The essentiality of calcium and boron substantiated should be further investigate','-','John, M., Elayarajan, M., Priya, R.S. and Janaki, P. (2021). Optimizing Nutrients Ratio for Enhancing the Tomato Productivity under Drip Fertigation. Biological Forum â€“ An International Journal, 13(3a): 665-672.'),(3266,'105','Constraints Faced in Availing Veterinary Services From Livestock Supervisor and Suggestions made by dairy farmers in Kolhapur district','D.S. Ande*, B.T. Kolgane and M. M. Yadav','118 Constraints Faced in Availing Veterinary Services From Livestock Supervisor and Suggestions made by dairy farmers in Kolhapur district D.S. Ande.pdf','',1,'The important constraints reported by the respondents that inadequate availability of medicines and other infrastructural facilities in veterinary clinics (86.66 %), the non availability of artificial insemination at door step (85.00 %), lack of awareness among dairy farmers about government animal developmental programs/scheme (83.33 %), non availability of pregnancy diagnosis at door step (82.50%), non availability of veterinarians in emergency cases (81.66 %) lack of veterinary medical stores at village level (80.83%), lack of proper advisory services on scientific livestock management (78.33%), non unavailability of proper disease diagnostic facilities within that geographical areas (70.00 %), less availability of qualified veterinary doctors/supervisors (50.83 %), long distance between dairy farm to veterinary clinic (45.83%). The important suggestions made by the respondents to overcome the constraints, provide emergency treatment at farmerâ€™s door step (95.83%), provi','Constraints, Dairy Farmer, Veterinary Services.','From the present study it was concluded that,\r\n1. Majority of the respondents reported constraints inadequate availability of medicines and other infrastructural facilities in veterinary clinics, long distance between dairy farm to veterinary clinic, non\r\navailability of veterinarians in emergency cases, unavailability of proper disease diagnostic facilities within that geographical areas, lack of proper advisory services on scientific livestock management, less availability of qualified veterinary doctors/supervisors, non availability of artificial insemination at door step, non availability of pregnancy diagnosis at door step, \r\nlack of veterinary medical stores at village level and lack of awareness among dairy farmers about Government animal developmental programs/schemes were expressed as an important constraints while availing veterinary services delivered livestock supervisor.\r\n2. Great majority(95.83%) of the respondents suggested that provide emergency treatment at farm','-','Ande, D.S., Kolgane, B.T. and Yadav, M.M. (2021). Constraints Faced in Availing Veterinary Services From Livestock Supervisor and Suggestions made by dairy farmers in Kolhapur district. Biological Forum â€“ An International Journal, 13(3a): 673-676.'),(3268,'98','Biopesticides and their Encapsulation Techniques: Current Updates and Future Prospective','Satyabrata Nanda, Triptesh Mondal, Sudheer Kumar Yadav and Gagan Kumar*','10 Biopesticides and their Encapsulation Techniques Current Updates and Future Prospective Gagan Kumar 1293.pdf','',1,'ABSTRACT: Exploitation of chemical fertilizers and synthetic pesticides are serious problems for todayâ€™s agriculture. Use of these chemical substances destabilize the natural soil microbial content and kills natural enemies of the targeted pest. Moreover, their contributions towards environmental pollutions are also significant. On the contrary, as an alternative source, the usage of biopesticides for pest control is emerging as a promising strategy for pest management in agriculture. However, the traditional use methods of biopesticides may result in the sub-optimal outputs. To provide solutions, the encapsulation of biopesticides is done that effectively improve the biopesticide performance and decreases the environmental contamination concerns. In this review, we have provided a brief idea about the current status and the future prospects of biopesticide usages and the different encapsulation methods employed to improve the biopesticide efficacy. ','Keywords: Biopesticides, active ingredient, encapsulation, environmental pollution.','','',''),(3269,'98','Salinity Stress Mediated Retardation of Seed Germination and Early Growth of Important Food Crops Cultivated in Gwalior','Md Khursheed*, Bhavya and Bipul Dhungel','11 Salinity Stress Mediated Retardation of Seed Germination and Early Growth of Important Food Crops Cultivated in Gwalior KHURSHEED WANI.pdf','',1,'ABSTRACT: The major ecological concern is the soil salinity in todayâ€™s farming practices. Globally it is changing and creating many socio-economic problems. Salinity is mainly resulted from higher accumulation of the salts of SO4-2, NO3-, CO3-2 , Cl- and HCO3- etc. The main objective of the study is to find out the Salinity stress mediated retardation of seed germination and early growth of important food crops cultivated in Gwalior. Standard protocols were used to obtain the results. The results obtained indicated that accumulations of salts results into physiological draught condition by changing the water potential. This condition of soil salinity effects all stages of the crop growth specifically at the seed germination and early stages of the growth and ultimately significantly reduces the yield of the crops. This study will help the researchers in screening and identification salt tolerant varieties of the crops are the first step towards the selection and development toleran','Keywords: Salinity, Varieties, Water potential, Tolerance, Physiological draught, germination','','',''),(3270,'98','A Glimpse into the Indian Traditional Medicine with Special Reference to Use of Hemidesmus indicus in Southern India: A Review','Anand Pandey*','12 A Glimpse into the Indian Traditional Medicine with Special Reference to Use of Hemidesmus indicus in Southern India A Review ANAND PANDEY.pdf','',1,'ABSTRACT: The medicinal and pharmacological aspects of plants are one such asset to the human race right through the evolution. The plants which are nutritionally rich and also loaded with some additional values like antioxidants, vitamins, proteins or some specific secondary metabolites are categorized as nutraceuticals plants. Ethanomedicinal usage of plants is not only limited to the knowledge of medicinal and aromatic plants but has been stretched to the exploration in the fungal world especially the lichens. India being a mega biodiversity country has enormous potential in this field of traditional medicines. Primitive societies were dependent on herbal remedies for the treatment and disorders since time immemorial. Either it may the use of herbal kadha (tea/ decoction/extract) or may be use of spices oils in the steam inhalation during the ongoing Corona pandemic, world has perceived the potential of Indian Ayurvedic system in the safe treatment of tough body illness through mini','Keywords: pharmacological, antioxidants, Ethanomedicinal, kadha, Hemidesmus ','','',''),(3271,'99','Comparative Study of Corrosion Behaviour of Martensitic and Supermartensitic Stainless Steels in Two Corrosive Media','Amel Oulabbas*, Samira Tlili and Soumaya Meddah','36 Comparative Study of Corrosion Behaviour of Martensitic and Supermartensitic Stainless Steels in Two Corrosive Media Amel OULABBAS.pdf','',1,'ABSTRACT: Supermartensitic stainless steels deduced from the refinement of the composition of martensitic steels, have a low carbon content with 13% chromium, 5% nickel and 2% molybdenum, this new generation of steel has an improved ductility with good mechanical strength and excellent corrosion resistance. The objective of this paper is to prove this resistance to hydrogen diffusion in the austenitic phase, and to study the resistance to sulfate corrosion and chloride pitting. The corrosion properties will be discussed in relation to their metallurgical microstructure. Stationary (polarization curves) and transient (electrochemical impedance) electrochemical methods were applied. The corrosion rate as a function of time was determined by the mass loss method and the characterization of the surface state was studied by optical microscopy. Two types of corrosion were observed: a uniform corrosion in which the half-reactions are homogeneously distributed in 0.5M H2SO4, followed by a loca','Keywords: Martensitic steel, supermartensitic steel, electrochemical impedance, corrosion','','',''),(3272,'93','Language Aptitude among Girl Undergraduate Students - A Case Study','Shreya Verma and Tanya Verma','9 Language Aptitude among Girl Undergraduate Students - A Case Study Shreya Verma.pdf','',1,'A case study was undertaken to know language aptitude among girl undergraduate students for their causes and remedies. The study was undertaken at Chaudhary Charan Singh P.G. College, Bardari, Barabanki, U.P., India for the year 2021 February. The Language aptitude test was conducted among girl undergraduate students of B.A. (Bachelor of Arts) and B.Sc.(Ag.) (Bachelor of Science in Agriculture). The population size was 40 for each of both disciplines of girl undergraduate students. The test of language aptitude was inferenced with parameter of Fisherâ€™s t - test for test of significance. There were observed, B.A. and B.Sc. (Ag.) girl undergraduates obtained 27.50 % and 43.21 % average marks respectively. The English language aptitude of both B.A. and B.Sc. (Ag.) girl undergraduates were not followed the normal population curve status. The language aptitude is the key component of learned society. Their proficiency is strongly associated with academic achievement. Most of worldwide tec','Case study, Language aptitude, Girl undergraduate students, U.P., India','','',''),(3275,'105','Marketing Efficiency Analysis â€“ A case of Indian Major Carps Marketing in\r\nAndhra Pradesh','Potnuru Santosh Kumar, J. S. Sonnad, Vilas S. Kulkarni, Ashalatha K.V. and K. V. Basavakumar','119 Marketing Efficiency Analysis â€“ A case of Indian Major Carps Marketing in Andhra Pradesh Potnuru Santosh Kumar.pdf','',1,'The present study was undertaken to analyze the marketing efficiency analysis of Indian major\r\ncarps marketing in Andhra Pradesh. This study was mainly based on primary data, which was collected\r\nthrough personal interview method from fish farmers, traders, wholesalers, retailers and vendors by using\r\npretested and well-structured schedules. Marketing plays an important and crucial role in aquaculture in\r\ngeneral and fisheries in particular, to reach the produce (fish) from farmers to ultimate consumers. Hence, an\r\nattempt had been made to identify the marketing channels, estimate the price spread and marketing\r\nefficiency of carps in Andhra Pradesh. It was found that two marketing channels were identified for each\r\ndistrict, the overall price spread was highest in channel-II amounting to ` 48.00 per kg of fish, followed by `\r\n41.62 in channel-I. Whereas, producers share in consumerâ€™s rupee was highest in channel-I accounted 71.55\r\nper cent followed by 68.00 per cent in channel-II. I','Pattern of sale, marketing costs, margins, price spread and marketing efficiency','Farmers in the study area typically sold their first harvest to traders and their second harvest to wholesalers, so farmers in channel-I command a higher price than farmers in channel-II. The producerâ€™s share of consumer rupee was found to be highest in channel-I of all the districts, which is a direct marketing channel and it accounted for around 85 per cent in carps. Whereas in price spread, the scenario was opposite i.e. channel-II was highest compared with channel-I. In channel-II, marketing costs and margins incurred by the marketing functionaries were more due to the fact that it was local marketing channel and it accounted for rest 15 per cent in carps. Marketing efficiency concerned, as per Acharyas method channel-I was the best channel with respect to farmers, because the net price received by the farmers was highest in channel-I compared to channel-II. While as per Shepherd method, channel-II was the best channel with respect to market functionaries, due to consumer purchas','-','Kumar, P. S., Sonnad, J. S., Kulkarni, Vilas S., Ashalatha, K.V. and Basavakumar, K. V. (2021). Marketing efficiency analysis â€“ A case of Indian major carps marketing in Andhra Pradesh. Biological Forum â€“ An International Journal, 13(3a): 677-682'),(3276,'105','Influence of Ecological Engineering on Major Lepidopteron Pests and Natural Enemies of Paddy in Tungabhadra Project Area','Raghavendra Yaligar*, Shivanna B.K., Sreenivas A.G., Jaylaxmi Narayana Hegde and Sharanabasappa','120 Influence of Ecological Engineering on Major Lepidopteron Pests and Natural Enemies of Paddy in Tungabhadra Project Area Raghavendra Yaligar.pdf','',1,'Continuous usage of pesticides in paddy over several decades has resulted in the development of resistant strains of insects to insecticides and resistant cultivars and reduction in natural enemy population. The present investigation aims to make the agro-ecosystem suitable for the better survival of natural enemies of pests and habitat manipulation aims to provide natural enemies of pests with nectar, pollen, physical refuge, alternate prey, alternate hosts, and living sites. The experiment was conducted at ARS, Gangavathi, Koppal district during Kharif 2016 and rabi-summer 2016-17 to evaluate the influence of ecological engineering on major lepidopteron pests and natural enemies of paddy in Tungabhadra Project Area. The pooled data showed that the mean-field incidence of stem borer and leaf folder ranged from 1.26 to 5.38 and 0.78 to 3.33 percent, respectively. Among all ecological engineering crops, paddy + cowpea as bund crop significantly enhanced the more number of natu','Cowpea, ecological engineering, leaf folder, paddy and yellow stem borer','In conclusion the experimental results with respect to the experiment conducted among the ecological engineering crops grown on paddy bunds paddy with cowpea recorded lowest stem borer incidence followed by paddy + marigold and paddy + sunhemp which recorded 34.39, 31.60 and 27.51 per cent reduction of dead heart over UTC, respectively. Similar trend was noticed in leaf damage caused by leaf folder paddy + cowpea, paddy + marigold and paddy + sunhemp which recorded lowest 39.64, 33.93 and 33.63 per cent reduction of leaf damage over control, respectively. Significantly highest yield of 45.92 q ha-1 was obtained in paddy+cowpea treatment, followed by paddy+sunhemp (43.94q ha-1) and paddy+marigold (42.94qha-1). The result reveals that the adoption of ecological engineering practices in paddy cultivation reduces the pest infestation and improves the productivity in an eco-friendly manner.','-','Yaligar, R., Shivanna, B.K., Sreenivas A.G., Jaylaxmi Narayana Hegde and Sharanabasappa (2021). Influence of Ecological Engineering on Major Lepidopteron Pests and Natural Enemies of Paddy in Tungabhadra Project Area. Biological Forum â€“ An International'),(3277,'105','Physical Characteristics Studies of Biocoal from Waste Tender Coconut','M.K. Ghosal and Kingshuk Roy*','121 Physical Characteristics Studies of Biocoal from Waste Tender Coconut M.K.pdf','',1,' A study was conducted to develop a suitable practice/technology for the effective utilization of one of the most neglected agro-residues i.e. waste tender coconut (husk and shell) for its safe disposal and deriving energy out of it. Carbonization of waste tender coconut in raw form (10-14 % moisture contents) and then densification of the produced char are followed to obtain the briquetted char, known as biocoal which possesses the coal-like properties for widening its application as an energy rich and high density solid biofuel especially in domestic and industrial sectors. The loose char obtained from the carbonization process was densified by hand press method using cheaply available binding materials such as cow dung, kitchen waste, food waste, waste paper slurry and grass to prepare biocoal for assessing its physical characteristics. From the study, it was revealed that biocoal with cow dung as binder exhibited highest quality and durability (durability index is 86 %) fo','Tender coconut wastes, bioenergy resource, biocoal, carbonization of biomass, briquetting','Carbonization and densification of waste tender coconuts is a simple and low-cost technology for their effective utilization in order to produce a solid biofuel of high density and energy concentrated biocoal for easy handling, safe storage and convenient transportation compared to raw and unprocessed biomass. Not much studies have been so far conducted for preparation of bio-coal from waste tender coconut (husk and shell) for assessing its physical characteristics to produce solid biofuel of desired quality and durability. The findings of the study would provide right information to the coconut growers, vendors, entrepreneurs, environmentalists etc. about the practice for waste to energy. From the study, the following conclusions have been drawn. \r\n1. The density of biocoal is increased by about 2.8 times than that of its loose char by following hand press method of compaction.\r\n2. Briquette prepared from the char of waste tender coconut with cow dung as binding material was found to','-','Ghosal, M.K. and Roy, K. (2021). Physical Characteristics Studies of Biocoal from Waste Tender Coconut. Biological Forum â€“ An International Journal, 13(3a): 691-695.'),(3278,'105','Utilization of Green Tea Tincture as Natural Preservative for Tuna Fish during Chilled Storage','Suraj P. Patel*, Aditya Singh and Jitesh Solanki','122 Utilization of Green Tea Tincture as Natural Preservative for Tuna Fish during Chilled Storage Patel Suraj.pdf','',1,'Green tea scientifically known as Camellia sinensis are steeped into hot water to make green tea, which is very popular beverage all around the world. It contains natural phenols and antioxidants catechins. Moreover, catechins contains epigallocatechin -3-gallate (EGCG). That is present abundantly in green tea. Catechin is the main component that prevent the oxidation in fish sample which is under experimental observation. Three samples have been taken for experiment. Fish samples are dipped in the already prepared solutions of 5% & 10% and control (Distilled water). After treatment samples have been observed for 7 days. Treated fish samples showed positive results compared to controlled fish sample, and better-quality control because oxidation has been inhibited to some extent due to antioxidation effect of green tea. The observation is done by torrymeter, whiteness meter & sensory evaluations. These instruments are valuable in assessing freshness and colour of fish samples.',' Green tea, tincture, Auxist hazard, antioxidants, catechins, quality control, freshness, lipid oxidation','This research data is to evaluate the effect of green tea tincture on Auxisthazard chunks. And fish chunks divided into three groups and each group, treated with different solutions (T1, T2, and T3). Result of different parameters like pH, freshness, colour, and sensory analysis are studied. So, based on the data (at the end of the 7th day), the most desirable sample was T2 (10% solution) compared to T1 and T3. About pH, sample T2 was moderately spoiledat the end of 7th day. Colour of T1 and T2 samples changed to greenish colour due to the effect of green tea tincture, and T3 sample which was the controlled one. Whiteness meter reading shows that the lightness increased by a noticeable amount. In the terms of overall acceptance, the T2 sample is most acceptable than the other samples.','-','Patel, S.P., Singh, A., and Solanki, J.(2021).Utilization of Green Tea Tincture as Natural Preservative for Tuna Fish during Chilled Storage. Biological Forum â€“ An International Journal, 13(3a): 696-699.'),(3279,'105','The Species assassin Bugs (Heteroptera: Reduviidae) and their Preys in the Mountainous Region of Northern Vietnam','Truong Xuan Lam','123 The Species assassin Bugs _Heteroptera Reduviidae_ and their Preys in the Mountainous Region of Northern Vietnam Truong Xuan Lam.pdf','',1,'In the mountainous region of Northern Vietnam, field surveys in 2 National Parks, 7 Nature Reserves, Lao Cai, Cao Bang, Hoa Binh, Son La, Bac Kan and Lang Son provinces shows that the 76 species of 43 genera, 7 subfamilies of family Reduviidae (Heteroptera) were recorded, among them 5 species are newly recorded in Vietnam. The Lao Cai (Bat Xat, Hoang Lien) has the highest diversity index and Bac Kan (Nam Xuan Lac), Lang Son (Huu Lien) have the lowest diversity index. The index of similarity of species composition at 6 surveyed sites were divided into group 1, Lao Cai (Bat Xat, Hoang Lien) and Cao Bang (Phia Oac - Phia Den); group 2, Hoa Binh (Thuong Tien, Hoang Kia-Pa Co) and Son La (Xuan Nha, Copia) and group 3, Bac kan (Nam Xuan Lac) and Lang Son (Huu Lien). The number of species in higher montane evergreen forest and lower montane evergreen forest is the biggest (69 species), in the lowland evergreen forest and lowland semi-evergreen forest have 28 species, in agricultural','Assassin bugs, Reduviidae, prey, Northern Vietnam','In the mountainous region of Northern Vietnam, 76 species of assassin bugs of 43 genera, 7 subfamilies of family Reduviidae in the mountainous region of Northern Vietnam were recorded with 5 species are newly recorded in Vietnam.\r\n The Lao Cai (Bat Xat, Hoang Lien) has the highest diversity index, and Bac Kan (Nam Xuan Lac), Lang Son (Huu Lien) have the lowest diversity index. The index of similarity of species composition at 6 surveyed sites were divided into group 1, Lao Cai (Bat Xat, Hoang Lien) and Cao Bang (Phia Oac - Phia Den); group 2, Hoa Binh (Thuong Tien, Hoang Kia-Pa Co) and Son La (Xuan Nha, Copia) and group 3, Bac Kan (Nam Xuan Lac) and Lang Son (Huu Lien).\r\n The number of species on the higher montane evergreen forest and lower montane evergreen forest (EM) was the highest and the buffer zone (ES) recorded the lowest. In Agricultural ecosystems (AE), the prey of assassin bugs is the larvae of 15 species of pest insects. The prey of 60 species of the family Reduviidae','-','Truong Xuan Lam (2021). The species assassin bugs (Heteroptera: Reduviidae) and their preys in the mountainous region of Northern Vietnam. Biological Forum â€“ An International Journal, 13(3a): 700-708.'),(3280,'105','Evaluation of Fruit Production Potential of Harar (Terminalia chebula Retz.) in Natural Forest and Manmade Plantation','Samanpreet Singh, Kamal Sharma Avinash Kumar Bhatia*, Shubham Sharma and Vishal Sharma','124 Evaluation of Fruit Production Potential of Harar _Terminalia chebula Retz._ in Natural Forest and Manmade Plantation Avinash Kumar Bhatia.pdf','',1,' The study was conducted in Hamirpur district (H.P.) to assess the fruit yield potential among the Harar landraces and seedling variety. Observations of fruit yield were recorded on 6 cultivars of Harar. The crowned area varied between 42 to 140 m2 per tree. The fruit yield of fresh fruit ranged from 23.0 kg/tree to 117.0 kg/tree while it varied from 20.0 kg/tree and 115.0 kg/tree during the year 2018 and 2019, respectively. The highest yield per tree was registered in diameter class V while the lowest was recorded in diameter class I. Tamber outperformed all the landraces having maximum fruit yield per tree i.e. 32.3 kg and 34.3 kg in 2018 and 2019, respectively. The quantities of fruit registered under Kallar and Kothi were 31.0 and 22.0 kg per tree whereas it was the same i.e. 21.0 kg per tree under Pahlu and Paluri. However, there were some hurdles during the collection of fruit rates in the market as the traders did not cooperate and also do not provide exact price tags p',' Landraces, fruit, diameter, yield, seedling, environmental','As the demand for Harar fruit has increased tremendously because of its medicinal value but the growers do not get enough profit from the Harar cultivation because of its lower yields and exploited by traders. In natural forest of Harar, diameter class V (>80 cm) gave maximum fruit yield. Whereas, among different landraces, Tamber registered the highest fruit yield and should be given the priority to harness maximum returns per unit area under Hamirpur environmental conditions.','-','Singh, S., Sharma, K., Bhatia, A.K., Sharma, S. and Sharma, V. (2021). Evaluation of Fruit Production Potential of Harar (Terminalia chebula Retz.) in Natural Forest and Manmade Plantation. Biological Forum â€“ An International Journal, 13(3a): 709-712.'),(3281,'105','Effect of Different Level of NPK and Boron on Soil Health Growth and Yield of Cabbage (Brassica olerasia L.) var. Pusa Hybrid-1','Deependra Pratap Singh*, Arun Alfred David, Narendra Swaroop, Tarence Thomas and Ajit Kumar Singh','125 Effect of Different Level of NPK and Boron on Soil Health Growth and Yield of Cabbage _Brassica Olerasia L._ var. Pusa Hybrid-1 Arun Alfred David.pdf','',1,'The study on effect of different level of NPK and Boron on soil health, growth and yield of Cabbage (Brassica olerasia L.) Pusa hybrid-1 was carried out at the research farm of Soil Science and Agricultural Chemistry, Sam Higginbottom University of Agriculture, Technology and Science, Prayagraj during the season of Rabi 2020-21. The soil of the experimental area was sandy loam in texture. The experiment was laid out in randomized block design with three levels of N P and K (0%, 50% and 100%) and three levels of Boron (0%, 50% and 100%). The experimental results revealed that significantly maximum growth parameters like plant height (24.1 cm), head weight (830 g) and head yield (40.05t ha-1) were noticed under T9 (@100 % NPK + 100 % B) as compared to rest of the treatments and lowest under T1 (Control). The result shows that pH (7.27), EC (0.28 dSm-1), Bulk density (Mg m-3), Particle density (Mg m-3), Water holding capacity (39.29 %), Pore space (55.32 %), Organic carbon (%), ','Soil Properties, Boron, N P K and Cabbage','From trial it was concluded that the various level of NPK and B used from different sources fertilizers (i.e. Urea (N 46%), + DAP (18 N % + P2O5 46%,) + MOP 60% K2O) in the experiment gave the best result in the treatment T9-[NPK @ 100% + B @ 100% ha-1] followed by treatment T7, in T9 the soil health parameters retained the suitable soil properties, yield attributes and yield of Cabbage and gave highest net profit of Rs. 118137.38 ha-1 with highest cost benefit ratio is 1:3.46. Therefore, it can be recommended for the farmers to obtain best combination Treatment (T9) for higher farm income and sustainable agriculture','-','Singh, D.P., David, A.A., Swaroop, N., Thomas, T. and Singh, A.K. (2021). Effect of Different Level of NPK and Boron on Soil Health Growth and Yield of Cabbage (Brassica olerasia L.) var. Pusa Hybrid-1. Biological Forum â€“ An International Journal, 13(3a'),(3285,'105','Effect of Spacing and Foliar Application of Iron on Growth and Yield of Safflower (Carthamus tinctorious L.)','Pitcheri Narendra Hirwani*, Rajesh Singh and Punnam Chhetri','126 Effect of Spacing and Foliar Application of Iron on Growth and Yield of Safflower Carthamus tinctorious L. Pitcheri Narendra Hirwani.pdf','',1,' A field experiment was conducted during Rabi 2020 at CRF (Crop Research Farm), Department of Agronomy, SHUATS, Prayagraj (U.P.). The soil of the experimental field is sandy loam in texture, nearly neutral in soil reaction (pH 7.4). The treatments consisted of Spacing viz., 30 Ã— 10cm, 45 Ã— 10cm and 60 Ã— 10cm and Foliar application of iron viz., Iron (0.1%), Iron (0.3%), Iron (0.6%) whose effect is observed in safflower (ISF-764). The experiment was laid out in Randomized Block Design with ten treatments replicated thrice. The treatment with (60 cm Ã— 10cm + 0.6% Fe/ha) also recorded significantly higher in plant height (84.60 cm), number of branches (12.46), plant dry weight (36.80 g) . The treatment with (60 cm Ã— 10cm + 0.6% Fe/ha) also recorded significantly higher in yield parameters viz., number capitulum per plant (29.33), and Number of seeds/capitulum (33.68), test weight (51.37 g) and oil content (31.07%). The treatment with 30cm Ã— 10cm + 0.6% Fe/ha) also reco',' Safflower, foliar application of iron, Spacing, Capitulum, dry weight and seed yield.','On the basis of present study, recommends that the application of resulted T9 (60 cm Ã— 10cm + 0.6% Fe/ha) highest plant height (84.60 cm), number of branches per plant (12.34 ), capitulum/plant (29.33), seeds/capitulum (33.68) where as application of T3 (30 cm Ã— 10cm + 0.6% Fe/ha) resulted maximum seed yield of (1.91 t/ha), stover yield (4.73 t/ha) and harvest index (29.49%).','-','Hirwani, P.N., Singh, R., and Chhetri, P. (2021). Effect of Spacing and Foliar Application of Iron on Growth and Yield of Safflower (Carthamus tinctorious L). Biological Forum â€“ An International Journal, 13(3a): 718-722.'),(3286,'105','Influence of Arbuscular Mycorrhizal Species on Photosynthetic Attributes of Groundnut under Drought Stress','Y. Bhargavi*, K. Jayalalitha, B. Sreekanth, B. Venkateswarlu and M. Latha','127 Influence of Arbuscular Mycorrhizal Species on Photosynthetic Attributes of Groundnut under Drought Stress Y. Bhargavi.pdf','',1,' Drought is a major limiting factor reducing the photosynthetic rate, gas exchange which in turn directly affect the yield of groundnut in arid regions. Mycorrhizae with their role in enhancing water uptake could be the potential inputs to reduce the negative impacts of drought stress. But, identifying the most effective mycorrhiza under drought stress is an important challenge ahead. Therefore, a study was undertaken at Agriculture College Farm, Bapatla, India during during rabi 2019-20 and 2020-21 to study the role of arbuscular mycorrhizal species on the photosynthetic attributes of groundnut under water stress. The experiment consisted of two main treatments (irrigation, water stress imposed at pegging and pod formation stages) and seven mycorrhizal treatments (No mycorrhizal application, soil application of Glomus fasciculatum, Glomus aggregatum, Glomus mosseae, Glomus intraradices, Gigaspora sps., Acaulospora sps. each @ 12.5 kg ha-1). Our findings revealed that the pho',' Gas exchange, net photosynthetic rate, stomatal conductance, groundnut, mycorrhiza','Photosynthesis and transpiration are the two important determinants of the crop growth and yield. In the present investigation, water stress substantially reduced the net photosynthetic rate, stomatal conductance and transpiration rate of groundnut. The mycorrhizal plants under water stress were recorded with higher net photosynthetic rate, stomatal conductance and transpiration rate compared to the non-mycorrhizal plants subjected to water stress. Among the mycorrhizal treatments, soil application of Glomus mosseae and Gigaspora sps. @ 12.5 kg ha-1 recorded superior performance in enhancing the net photosynthetic rate, stomatal conductance and transpiration rate of groundnut under water stress and were found to perform comparably to that of non-mycorrhizal plants under irrigation.','-','Bhargavi, Y., Jayalalitha, K., Sreekanth, B., Venkateswarlu, B. and Latha, M. (2021). Influence of Arbuscular Mycorrhizal Species on Photosynthetic Attributes of Groundnut under Drought Stress. Biological Forum â€“ An International Journal, 13(3a): 723-73'),(3287,'105','Impact of Organic and Inorganic Synthetic Mulches on Growth and Yield of Potato under Temperate Conditions','Zahedullah Zahed*, Shahnaz Mufti, Faheema Mushtaq and Sumati Narayan','128 Impact of Organic and Inorganic Synthetic Mulches on Growth and Yield of Potato under Temperate Conditions Zahedullah Zahed.pdf','',1,'The growth and yield of potato largely depends on the soil, climate conditions and different production practices. A part from using high yielding varieties and good agricultural practices there is a need to utilize environmental, biological energy for higher production. Mulching is an important production practice which greatly influences potato yields through moisture retention, maintenance of soil temperatures, weed control and disease control. A field experiment was conducted during 2020-2021 at Experimental Farm of Division of Vegetable Science, SKUAST-K, Shalimar to study the effect of different organic and inorganic synthetic mulches on growth and yield of potato variety, Shalimar Potato-1. The experiment was laid out in RCBD design with ten treatments and three replications. Observation were recorded on various parameters related to growth and yield. Among all the inorganic synthetic mulches, treatment (T1) Black P.M recorded maximum germination percentage (94.30%), p','Organic, Inorganic, Synthetic, Mulch','The organic and inorganic plastic mulches exhibited a significant influence on all growth and yield parameters. Germination percentage was found non-significant among the different types of mulches But was found significant with treatment T10 (no mulch). Black P.M recorded significant increase in plant height, plant spread, leaf area, number of shoots plant-1 over rest of the mulches and control as well. Number of tubers plant-1, Average tuber weight plant-1, grade wise weight and number of tubers plant-1 were found significantly higher under Black P.M as compared to other coloured mulches, organic mulches and bare soil. Total tuber yield also remained significantly higher with Black P.M compared to organic mulches and bare soil. Among organic mulches rice straw mulch recorded significant increase in growth and yield parameters as compared to other organic and un-mulched soil. Furthermore, it is suggested to conduct multi-location and multi-seasonal trials on this aspect to achieve mor','-','Zahed Z., Mufti, S., Mushtaq, F. and Narayan, S. (2021). Impact of Organic and Inorganic Synthetic Mulches on Growth and Yield of Potato under Temperate Conditions. Biological Forum â€“ An International Journal, 13(3a): 731-737.'),(3288,'105','An Overall Review on Bamboo Shoot and its Role in Food Security','Bhavana A.*, Akshay R. Patil, Roopa B. Patil and Deepak','129 An Overall Review on Bamboo Shoot and its Role in Food Security Bhavana A.pdf','',1,'The major burden in uplifting the objective of global food security with this growing population is an indicator to raise the crops production. Presently, very few food crops feed the giant majority of worldâ€™s population. The major challenge is to feed the growing population by food products with good source of nutrients for nourishment of humans and where it could reach all classes of the society. To liberate the world from this widespread hunger and malnutrition, there is requirement to discover a novel food crops which play a vital role in supplementing the existing food crops for both, nutritional and health security. The classic and resourceful plant, bamboo, is obscurely associated with hominids since from decades. It is one of the fastest growing plants and is assessed to cover 8.96 million ha of the total 63.3 million ha forest area of India. The North-East India anchorages around 43 per cent of the entire bamboo wealth in India. The utilization of immature shoots o',' Bamboo shoot, forest area, food security and global hunger.','Bamboo, the most versatile renewable resource, coincidently has utmost natural abundance in the areas which are most horribly affected from hunger and undernourishment. The products made were very good in taste as well as from the nutritional point of view. Bamboo shoots are available for a limited period; more number of different edible products can be standardized and formulated in future. Value addition of bamboo shoot and in food market having bamboo component increases their marketability potential of these kinds of novel products the growing global population in near future.','-','Bhavana A., Patil, A.R., Patil, R.B. and Deepak (2021). An Overall Review on Bamboo Shoot and its Role in Food Security. Biological Forum â€“ An International Journal, 13(3a): 738-742.'),(3289,'105','Management of Papaya Ringspot Virus (PRSV) using Insecticides and bio Rationals under Field Conditions','U. Premchand, R.K. Mesta, M.P. Basavarajappa, M.A. Waseem, Y.S. Mahesh, Sarvamangala Cholin and D.P. Prakash\r\n','130 Management of Papaya Ringspot Virus _PRSV_ using Insecticides and bio Rationals under field conditions U. Premchand.pdf','',1,'A field experiment conducted at the Haveli farm, College of Horticulture, UHS Bagalkot, Karnataka, India during 2019-20 to evaluate efficacy of different combination of insecticides and bio rationals (plant based oils and seaweed extract) in reducing Papaya ringspot virus (PRSV) incidence in papaya under field conditions. The results indicated that different combination of insecticides and bio rationals differed in their effectiveness in delaying PRSV infection. A combination of insecticides i.e tolfenpyrad 15% EC @1 ml/lt, imidacloprid 17.8%SL @ 0.2 ml/lt, thiacloprid 21.7 SC @ 1 ml/lt and dinotefuran 20 % SG @ 0.5g/lt sprayed along with micronutrients at every 30 days internals was the most effective treatment with less PRSV infection. Out of nine treatments complete protection could not be obtained in any of the treatment combinations probably due to the non persistent nature of virus transmission by vectors','Papaya ringspot virus, Seaweed extract, Bio oils, Tolfenpyrad 15% EC, Imidacloprid 17.8%, Thiacloprid 21.7 SC, Dinotefuran 20 % SG, Insecticides, Bio rationals, Management','The studies on the management of PRSV under field condition during 2019-20 using insecticides and bio rationales revealed that treatment T1 (8 sprays at 30 days intervals, 1st Tolfenpyrad 15% EC @ 1 ml/lt, 2nd Imidacloprid 17.8%SL @ 0.2 ml/lt, 3rd Thiacloprid 21.7 SC @ 1 ml/lt, 4th Dinotefuran 20 % SG @ 0.5g/lt, 5th Tolfenpyrad 15% EC @ 1 ml/lt, 6th Imidacloprid 17.8% SL @ 0.2 ml/lt, 7th Thiacloprid 21.7 SC @ 1 ml/lt, 8th Dinotefuran 20 % SG @ 0.5g/lt and followed with micronutrients) proved as the best treatment in managing PRSV under field conditions. It recorded least diseases incidence i.e., 2.78 % at 240 DAT and took 360 DAT to reach 100 % Treatment, T5 (8 sprays at 30 days intervals having combination of four different insecticide and seaweed extract, Tolfenpyrad 15% EC @ 1 ml/lt, Seaweed extract @ 4ml/lt, Imidacloprid 17.8% SL @ 0.2 ml/lt, Seaweed extract @ 4ml/lt, Thiacloprid 21.7 SC @ 1 ml/lt, Seaweed extract @ 4ml/lt, Dinotefuran 20 % SG @ 0.5g/lt, Seaweed extract @ 4ml/lt an','-','Premchand, U., Mesta, R.K., Basavarajappa, M.P., Waseem, M.A., Mahesh, Y.S., Cholin, S. and Prakash, D.P. (2021). Management of Papaya Ringspot Virus (PRSV) using Insecticides and bio Rationals under Field Conditions. Biological Forum â€“ An International'),(3290,'105','Effect of Explant and Media Factors on Direct Shoot Organogenesis in Garlic (Allium sativum L.) cv. Ooty 2','Meena, S., Gnanam, R., Kavitha, M., Radhamani, T., Karthikeyan, M. and Rajesh, S.','131 Effect of Explant and Media Factors on Direct Shoot Organogenesis in Garlic _Allium sativum L._ cv. Ooty 2 Rajesh S.pdf','',1,'Garlic (Allium sativum L.) is one of the oldest cultivated crops known for its medicinal values and important spice used in culinary. In garlic, cloves are widely used as seed material for planting which poses challenges in increasing the input cost of cultivation and also there is questionable availability of quality planting material for the farmers. The present study was conducted to optimize the choice of explant for the direct organogenesis in the garlic cultivar Ooty 2. Direct organogenesis in garlic promotes micropropagation for virus-free bulblet production which could be employed as seed material. Shoot tip and basal meristematic region explants from garlic cloves were studied for their in vitro responses to shoot organogenesis. Basal region explants produced the maximum number of shoots in different shoot induction media compared to shoot tips. Mean number of shoots produced per clove is 3.2 when cultured in MS media supplemented with 0.1 mg L-1 NAA and 1 mg L-1 BAP. This is ','Garlic (Allium sativum L.), shoot tip, basal meristematic region, direct organogenesis','Explant and media optimization for the in vitro direct shoot regeneration in garlic cultivar Ooty 2 was developed in this study. The explants showed differential responses for the shoot regeneration. The basal region explant of the garlic was found to be the efficient explant than the shoot tips. This could also be excised more easily than the shoot tips and adopted when exploited on large scale. This report on micropropagation study for direct shoot organogenesis support and advance further researches on garlic, as a source of secondary explants for in vitro bulblet induction and genetic transformation procedures. Since bulblet induction demands quality shoots on larger scale, these findings from the present study in a popular commercial cultivar like Ooty2 has significance for future research on microbulblets production that can serve as quality planting material for the farmers.','-','Meena, S., Gnanam, R., Kavitha, M., Radhamani, T., Karthikeyan, M. and Rajesh, S. (2021). Effect of Explant and Media Factors on Direct Shoot Organogenesis in Garlic (Allium sativum l.) cv. Ooty 2. Biological Forum â€“ An International Journal, 13(3a): 74'),(3291,'105','Effect of Crop Geometry and Nutrient Management Practices on Growth Attributes and Yield of Transplanted Finger Millet in Krishna Agro-climatic Conditions of Andhra Pradesh','A. Aliveni and B. Venkateswarlu','132 Effect of Crop Geometry and Nutrient Management Practices on Growth Attributes and Yield of Transplanted Finger Millet in Krishna Agro-climatic Conditions of Andhra Pradesh A. Aliveni.pdf','',1,'Finger millet being a low fertilizer input and staple food crop for tribal and lower income class, it suffers from low yields. The present investigation deals with agro-management practices that are imperative for boosting the growth and production of finger millet. Field experiment was conducted at Agricultural college farm, Bapatla during the kharif seasons of 2018 and 2019 to evaluate the effect of crop geometry and nutrient management practices on growth and yield performance of finger millet. The trial comprised of three crop geometries with different age of seedlings (30 Ã— 10 cm with 30 days old seedlings, 30 Ã— 30 cm with 15 days old seedlings and 45 Ã— 45 cm with 15 days old seedlings) in main plots and seven nutrient management practices (S0: absolute control, S1: FYM @ 10 tonnes ha-1 + application of dravajeevamrutham, S2: FYM @ 10 tonnes ha-1 + application of dravajeevamrutham along with wooden log treatment, S3: FYM @ 10 tonnes ha-1 + 100% RDF, S4: FYM @ 10 tonnes ha-1','Yield, growth attributes, crop geometry, nutrient management practice and finger millet','In conclusion from the study, it was inferred that transplanting of 30 days old seedlings at a spacing of 30 Ã— 10 cm and integrated application of FYM @ 10 tonnes ha-1 + 125% RDF along with wooden log treatment resulted in better growth and yield of finger millet per unit area.','-','Aliveni, A. and Venkateswarlu, B. (2021). Effect of Crop Geometry and Nutrient Management Practices on Growth Attributes and Yield of Transplanted Finger Millet in Krishna Agro-climatic Conditions of Andhra Pradesh. Biological Forum â€“ An International J'),(3292,'105','Studies on Interspersed Nutrient Management on Uptake of Nutrients Seeds, Stover and Soil Biota Status of Fennel','Rajesh S. Kalasare, Dinkar J. Gaikwad, P.P. Gaikwad, Sagar Maitra, Ashirbachan Mahapatra and Manish Kumar Yadav\r\n','133 Studies on Interspersed Nutrient Management on Uptake of Nutrients Seeds, Stover and Soil Biota Status of Fennel Rajesh. S. Kalasare.pdf','',1,'Crop nutrient management is always a tough task for farmers as most recommendations made for crops are not actually based on all the given localities. Proper and balanced nutrients help in good absorption and translocation of nutrients consequently facilitating proper growth and development of plant along with maintaining the soil health. In view of the above facts, the present experiment was executed at the Research Area of Farm of Agronomy, College of Agriculture, Anand Agricultural University, Anand, Gujarat to find out the effects of balanced and combined practices of nutrient managements on fennel crop. The research was laid out in Randomized Block Design comprising of twelve combinations of Integrated Nutrient Management treatments and three replications. The results revealed that the application of 100 % RDF (Recommended Dose of Fertilizer) with Azospirillum sp.+ Phosphate S. Bacteria + Vermi-compost @ 2 t ha-1 significantly increased the nutrient uptake of seed (N-42.71, P-8.12','Fennel, Azospirillum, PSB, Vermicompost, RDF','Significantly higher nitrogen, phosphorus and potassium uptake of seed and stover was observed with the application of T4 (100% RDF + Azospirillum sp. + PSB + Vermi-compost @ 2 t ha-1) which was found at par with the treatment T2 (100 % RDF + Azospirillum sp. + Vermi-compost @ 2 t ha-1) over rest of the treatments. It shows that the combination of inorganic fertilizers, biofertilizer and vermicompost treatment gives highest nutrient uptake by seed and stover. The available micro-organism status after harvest of fennel was increased by different nutrient management practices. The highest available microbial population was observed under treatment T5 (50% RDF + Azospirillum sp. + PSB + Vermi-compost @ 2 t ha-1).','-','Kalasare, R.S., Gaikwad, D.J., Gaikwad, P.P., Maitra, S., Mahapatra, A. and Yadav, M.K. (2021). Studies on Interspersed Nutrient Management on Uptake of Nutrients Seeds, Stover and Soil Biota Status of Fennel. Biological Forum â€“ An International Journal'),(3293,'105','Influence of Methods of Sowing and Seaweed (Kappaphycus alvarezii) Extract on Growth and Yield of Wheat (Triticum aestivum L.)','Baratam Santosh Kumar, Rajesh Singh and Ekta Singh','134 Influence of Methods of Sowing and Seaweed _Kappaphycus alvarezii_ Extract on Growth and Yield of Wheat _Triticum aestivum L._ Baratam Santosh Kumar.pdf','',1,'Planting methods performs crucial role in placement of seed at right depth, which in the end influences crop growth. The selection of suitable method of planting depends upon the time of planting, availability of soil water at planting time, residue amount with inside the field. During the 2020-21 Rabi season, a field trial was carried out at the SHUATS crop research farm in Prayagraj to study the Influence of sowing methods and seaweed (Kappaphycus alvarezii) extract on the growth and yield of Wheat (Triticum aestivum L.). The experiment was laid out in a random block design, three sowing methods were retained, i.e. S1 - Broadcasting, S2 â€“ Line sowing, and S3 â€“ System of Wheat Intensification and Seaweed extract (Kappaphycus alvarezii) and which was replicated three times. With the treatment of Line sowing +7.5 % K sap recorded significantly higher in plant height (76.87 cm), test weight (36.99 g), grain yield (3.57 t/ha), and stover yield (5.07 t/ha) results were recorded. Result','Broadcasting, Line sowing, System of Wheat Intensification and Seaweed extract','On the basis of one season experimentation treatment combination with Line sowing + 7.5% K sap was found more productive (3.57 t/ha).','-','Kumar, B.S., Singh, R. and Singh, E. (2021). Influence of Methods of Sowing and Seaweed (Kappaphycus alvarezii) Extract on Growth and Yield of Wheat (Triticum aestivum L.). Biological Forum â€“ An International Journal, 13(3a): 765-768.'),(3294,'105','In vitro Pollen germination of Hermaphrodite Flowers of Wild Pomegranate (Punica granatum L.) in Western Himalayas','Jyoti Dhiman, Tara Gupta and R.K. Gupta','135 In vitro Pollen germination of Hermaphrodite Flowers of Wild Pomegranate _Punica granatum L._ in Western Himalayas Jyoti Dhiman.pdf','',1,'The study on pollen germination is important for monitoring pollen-stigma interaction, crop improvement, breeding, incompatibility, and fertility studies. The genotypes of wild pomegranate were selected at two locations viz., Tatool (S1), Solan district and Narag (S2), Sirmour district of Himachal Pradesh. This species consists of three types of flowers i.e., male, Intermediate and Hermaphrodite. The presented study was carried on pollens collected from hermaphrodite flowers of selected genotypes of wild pomegranate. In vitro pollen germination of hermaphrodite flowers was observed in seven different concentrations of sucrose and boric acid solutions i.e., 5 percent sucrose, 10 percent sucrose, 10 percent sucrose solution + 10 ppm boric acid, 12.5 percent sucrose solution, 12.5 percent sucrose solution + 10 ppm boric acid, 15 percent sucrose and 20 percent sucrose to find the best sucrose concentrations for germination. The germinated pollen was counted for 48 hours until there was no ','pollen germination, boric acid, sucrose, hermaphrodite flower, wild pomegranate','Reproduction rate, fruit production of this species depends upon the proportion of fertile flowers (hermaphrodites), percentage of pollen germination. As this species comprised of and romonoecious types of flowers i.e., male and hermaphrodite types of flowers. Hermaphrodite flowers are more fertile than male flowers. Therefore, the use of pollens of hermaphroditic flowers for reproduction, breeding purposes can gives a higher success. Since very few studies have been conducted on wild pomegranate, it can be used by the breeder as a guide for the development of highly productive disease resistant strains of wild pomegranate. Also, development of cross hybrids of cultivated and wild types. Here we identified more than 50 percent rate of germination of pollen collected from hermaphrodite flowers. In-vitro pollen germination is also a reliable method to test the pollen viability. It also addresses many basic questions in sexual reproduction and particularly useful in wide hybridization','-','Dhiman, J., Gupta, T. and Gupta, R.K. (2021). In vitro Pollen Germination of Hermaphrodite Flowers of Wild Pomegranate (Punica granatum L.) in Western Himalayas. Biological Forum â€“ An International Journal, 13(3a): 769-773.'),(3295,'105','Screening of M4 Sorghum (Sorghum bicolor (L.) Moench) Mutant Lines Against Shoot Fly (Atherigona soccata Rondani)','V.C. Raghavendra, G. Girish, M.B. Ashok, B.V. Temburne, L.N. Yogeesh, M.R. Govindappa and Anand Kumar V.','136 Screening of M4 Sorghum _Sorghum bicolor _L._ Moench_ Mutant Lines Against Shoot Fly _Atherigona soccata Rondani_ V.C. Raghavendra.pdf','',1,'The present investigation was carried to screen 200 mutant lines against shoot fly incidence in augmented block design at Agricultural Research Station, Hagari. In sorghum production shoot fly incidence is the major biotic constraints, which attacks crop at the seedling stage and causes losses of yield and fodder. The screening results revealed that 29 mutant lines shown highly resistance reaction compared to resistant check IS-2312 (15.78), among them seven mutant lines showed zero percentage of dead heart per cent. These mutant lines exhibited comparatively lower number of eggs per plant and minimum dead heart formation. 10 mutant lines shown highly resistance response to seedling vigour and glossiness score traits. In order to attain uniform shoot fly pressure under field conditions the interlard-fish meal technique was followed for present experiment. These resistant lines can be used for further confirmation and also for future resistant breeding programmes','Dead heart, Oviposition, Shoot fly, Sorghum','The present experiment was conducted to identify mutant lines, which were resistant to shoot fly attack. Study revealed that among 200 mutant lines seven lines viz., PV-RD-29, PV-RD-30, PV-RD-13, PV-RD-41, PV-RD-33, PV-9 and PV-RD-47 showed resistant to shoot fly component characters viz., oviposition, dead heart, glossiness and seedling vigour compared to resistant check IS-2312 (Resistance) under interland fish-meal technique conditions. These six mutant lines were promising lines to reduce shoot fly infestation, so these lines can be used for further confirmation and future tolerance breeding programs. ','-','Raghavendra, V.C., Girish, G., Ashok, M.B., Temburne, B.V., Yogeesh, L.N., Govindappa, M.R. and Kumar, A.V. (2021). Screening of M4 Sorghum (Sorghum bicolor (L.) Moench) Mutant Lines Against Shoot Fly (Atherigona soccata Rondani). Biological Forum â€“ A'),(3297,'105','Prevalence and Associated Factors of Maternal Malnutrition Among Women in\r\nYamuna Area of Prayagraj District','Tripti Verma and Alka Gupta','137 Prevalence and Associated Factors of Maternal Malnutrition Among Women in Yamuna Area of Prayagraj District Tripti Verma.pdf','',1,'Maternal malnutrition is wide spread in resource-limited environments. As a result, this\r\nassessment aimed to identify characteristics linked with pregnant women\'s dietary practices and nutritional\r\nhealth in the Prayagraj districtï¿½s Yamuna area. The names of 250 pregnant and nursing mothers were drawn\r\nat random from a pool of applicants. In addition to awareness questions, the questionnaire includes a general\r\nanthropometric profile of the respondent. The ethical committee conducted a consideration meeting for the\r\nresearch-related ethical clearanceand approval from the institutional ethical committee, SHUATS, Prayagraj.\r\nThe interventional groupï¿½s 24-hour dietary recall method and food frequency ratio was calculated. Dietary\r\npractice questions were used to gauge peopleï¿½s habits. Along with that the clinical symptoms of the\r\nrespondents were assessed in the presence of docter and ANMï¿½s staff and recorded for the future\r\ninvestigation. Thus the obsevartion found that there wa','Maternal malnutrition, covid 19, Dietary practice, Undernutrition, Pregnancy, Poor Hygiene Habits','Poor dietary habits and high nutritional status were common among pregnant women. Having a history of disease and being pregnant in the first trimester were linked to poor dietary practices. In contrast, low self-efficacy and low self-perception of advantages were linked to bad dietary practices. Unhealthy eating habits were associated with poorer self-efficacy and low self-efficacy perception, while undernutrition was positively associated with not attending prenatal care.A link was found between poor dietary practices and being pregnant in the first trimester and past sickness, the perceived degree of malnutrition, and the benefits and self-efficacy that came from improving oneâ€™s diet. Participants with low self-efficacy and inadequate nutritional knowledge were more likely to be undernourished than those with greater attention to ANC, sickness history, or variety in their diets. ','-','Verma, T. and Gupta, A. (2021). Prevalence and Associated Factors of Maternal Malnutrition Among Women in Yamuna Area of Prayagraj District. Biological Forum â€“ An International Journal, 13(3a): 781-788.'),(3298,'105','Efficacy of Weedicides in Controlling Weeds in Nutri Cereals','Sukanya, T.S.*, Anand M.R., Meghana, G.K., Chaithra, C. and Pratima Ningaraddi Morab','138 Efficacy of Weedicides in Controlling Weeds in Nutri Cereals Sukanya T.S.pdf','',1,'An experiment to study the efficacy of weedicides in Kodo millet was conducted at Zonal Agricultural Research Station, University of Agricultural Sciences, GKVK, Bengaluru during Kharif 2018 and 2019 on weed density and yield parameters. The extent of yield reduction owing to weed is 33-50% in nutri cereals depending on the intensity and persistence of weed density. To find out the effective pre and post emergent weedicides for Kodo millet, a promising nutri cereal crop, the experiment was conducted and was laid in RCBD comprising 12 treatments. Among the herbicide treatments, the grain yield at the treatments of bensulfuron methyl 0.6 G + pretilachlor 6.0 G @ 165 g a. i. ha-1 followed by bispyribac sodium 10 SC @ 10 g a. i. ha-1 (1958 kg ha-1) and bensulfuron methyl 0.6 G + pretilachlor 6.0 G @ 165 g a. i. ha-1 followed by ethoxysulfuron 15 WG @ 12 g a. i. ha-1 (1940 kg ha-1) were found significantly higher to other treatments and were at par with treatment weed free check',' Oxadiargyl, Bensulfuron methyl + Pretilachlor, Pendimethalin, Bispyribac sodium','Kodo millet is relatively a long duration crop as compared to other nutria cereals and hence provides greater scope for weed control during early growth stages of the crop. As vegetative growth of crop is more, pre as well as post emergent herbicides also plays a foremost role in effective control of the weeds. The present study concluded that the application of bensulfuron methyl 0.6 % G + pretilachlor 6.0 % G 165 g a. i. ha-1 as pre-emergent herbicide fb post emergent application of bispyribac sodium 10 % SC 10 g a. i. ha-1 is more beneficial owing to broad spectrum control of weeds more efficiently and thereby enhanced the yield of kodo millet.','-','Sukanya, T.S., Anand M.R., Meghana, G.K., Chaithra, C. and Morab, P.N. (2021). Efficacy of Weedicides in Controlling Weeds in Nutri Cereals. Biological Forum â€“ An International Journal, 13(3a): 789-792.'),(3299,'106','Study of Acoustical and Physico-chemical Properties on the Binary Mixture of Chlorobenzene and p-Xylene at 298.15 K Temperature','Sonu Dwivedi','6 Study of Acoustical and Physico-chemical Properties on the Binary Mixture of Chlorobenzene and p-Xylene at 298.pdf','',1,'ABSTRACT: The study of liquid mixtures finds wide application in industrial and technological processes. In this work evaluated experimental densities (Ï) and ultrasonic velocities (U) for the pure liquids and liquid mixture of Chlorobenzene and p-Xylene using bicapillary pycnometer and single frequency variable path over the different concentration range at 298.15 K Temprature. The observed data had been utilized to calculate various acoustical parameters like Isentropic compressibility (KS), Intermolecular free length (Lf) and acoustic impedance (Z). Excess ultrasonic velocities (UE), Excess Isentropic compressibility (KSE), Excess Intermolecular free length (LfE) and Excess acoustic impedance (ZE) were calculated using the measured values and correlated with the Redlichâ€“Kister polynomial equation. The observed variations of the properties for the above mixture conclude that the interactions between unlike molecules predominate over the dissociation effects in the individual comp','Keywords: Acoustic impedance, Density, Inter molecular free-Length, Isentropic Compressibility, Ultrasonic velocity.','','',''),(3300,'105','Response of Late Sown Wheat (Triticum aestivum L.) to Organic and Liquid Manures on Growth and Yield','Marupaka Praneeth, Rajesh Singh and Ekta Singh','139 Response of Late Sown Wheat _Triticum aestivum L.pdf','',1,'During the Rabi season of 2020-2021a field experiment was executed at crop research farm, SHUATS, Prayagraj to examine approximately the â€œResponse of late sown wheat (Triticum aestivum L.) to organic and liquid manures on growth and yieldâ€. The experiment become set out in randomized block design with the aid of using 3 Poultry manure levels, i.e. PM1 - (PM-2t/ha), PM2 â€“ (PM-2.5t/ha) and PM3 â€“ (PM-3t/ha) and Liquid manures (Panchagavya 3% and Vermiwash 3%) which was replicated three thrice. Results revealed that Poultry Manure 3.0 t/ha + Panchagavya 3% + Vermiwash 3 % recorded significantly higher in plant height (73.95 cm), number of tillers per hill (6.60), plant dry weight (20.01 g/plant), grain yield (3.24 t/ha), straw yield (4.41 t/ha) and harvest index (42.13 %). Therefore, I concluded that Poultry Manure 3.0 t/ha + Panchagavya 3% + Vermiwash 3 % were produced more grains (3.24 t/ha) and economic effective (1.41).','Wheat, Poultry manure, Vermiwash, Panchagava and Yield.','On the basis of one season experimentation treatment with Poultry Manure 3.0 t/ha + Panchagavya 3% + Vermiwash 3 % was found more productive (3.24 t/ha).','-','Praneeth, M., Singh, R. and Singh, E. (2021). Response of Late Sown Wheat (Triticum aestivum L.) to Organic and Liquid Manures on Growth and Yield. Biological Forum â€“ An International Journal, 13(3a): 793-796.'),(3301,'105','Influence of Bioagents Population under Different Weather Parameters in Rice Field Ecosystem of Eastern Uttar Pradesh Conditions','Gyan Prakash Morya and Rajnish Kumar','140 Influence of Bioagents Population under Different Weather Parameters in Rice Field Ecosystem of Eastern Uttar Pradesh Conditions Gyan Prakash Morya.pdf','',4,'An intensive study was undertaken to investigate the influence of bioagents population under different weather parameters in rice field ecosystem of Eastern Uttar Pradesh conditions for two consecutive years, 2014 and 2015. The population of bioagents were observed under particular weather parameters, i.e., temperature maximum, temperature minimum, relative humidity, and rainfall in different growth stages of rice. The influence of weather parameters on population of bioagents were inferenced by correlation coefficient. Of the total observed population of most bioagent groups in all growth stages of rice under temperature maximum, temperature minimum, relative humidity, and rainfall, the correlation coefficients were - 0.602, - 0.581, - 0.490, and 0.768 for predators; - 0.459, - 0.436, - 0.337, and 0.649 for parasitoids respectively. The abundance of most bioagent groups, both predators and parasitoids were inferenced negative correlation with particular weather parameters, except rain','Bioagents population, Weather parameters, Rice field ecosystem, Influence, Eastern Uttar Pradesh, India','','',''),(3303,'4','Mna\r\nsmm','sms','hh.php7','',1,'meem','emem','','',''),(3304,'107','Multivariate Hierarchical Diversity Analysis of Chrysanthemum (Dendranthema grandiflora Tzvelev) Genotypes','Sonia Singh*, A.K. Godara and Ajay Verma','1 Multivariate Hierarchical Diversity Analysis of Chrysanthemum Dendranthema grandiflora Tzvelev Genotypes Sonia Singh.pdf','',1,'ABSTRACT: Chrysanthemums have beautiful flowers with high ornamental value and rich genetic diversity. Usually univariate analytic tools utilized for diversity analysis. Thirty genotypes of Chrysanthemum were characterized based on multivariate hierarchical tools in present study during 2019 and 2020 cropping season at research farm of CCS Haryana Agricultural University, Hisar. Flower yield per plant expressed by Pusa Guldata followed by Pusa Shwet, Pusa Chitrksha whereas low yielders were Bicolor Aruba, Garden Beauty, Papaya Clever. Mostly significant positive correlation coefficient values had observed of flower yield per plant trait with Number of flowers per plant, number of buds per plant, Fresh weight of plant, dry weight of plant, plant spread whereas negative correlations of low magnitude were seen with stalk length, stem diameter, dry weight of flower. Four clusters of genotypes had been observed by multivariate hierarchical approach with 13.3, 40, 16.7 and 30 percent of tota','Keywords: Chrysanthemum, multivariate hierarchical, correlation and biplot analysis.','','',''),(3305,'107','Proximate Analysis and Bioactive Composition of Noodles Incorporated with Different Spices','Dhanavath Srinu*, D. Baskaran and S. Ramesh','2 Proximate Analysis and Bioactive Composition of Noodles Incorporated with Different Spices Dhanavath Srinu.pdf','',1,'ABSTRACT: The present study was carried out to determine the proximate composition, bioactive compounds, and antioxidant properties of noodles prepared by incorporating selected spices viz., fenugreek, black cumin, coriander, and cinnamon in the form of powders at different equal levels of substitutions (2%, 4%, and 6%). The proximate parameters such as moisture, protein, fat, crude fiber, total ash, and carbohydrate content were determined. The bioactive compounds namely total polyphenols and total flavonoids were determined. The antioxidant properties were determined by DPPH radical scavenging activity and reducing power assay. The spices incorporated noodles were found to have dietary fiber content in the range of 2.14 to 4.24g/100g. The total polyphenol content was found to be in the range of 14.22 to 19.50 mg/g of GAE. The results of the present study revealed that the noodles prepared by incorporating different spices showed good in-vitro antioxidant properties.','Keywords: Dietary fibre, fenugreek, flavonoids, noodles, polyphenols.','','',''),(3306,'107','Effect of Skim Milk Powder on Chemical Properties of Low Fat Burfi','K.V. Jadhao, P.A. Kahate*, R.R. Shelke, K.U. Bidwe and S.D. Chavan','3 Effect of Skim Milk Powder on Chemical Properties of Low Fat Burfi P.A.pdf','',1,'ABSTRACT: The present investigation was conducted to study the effect of skim milk powder (SMP) on chemical properties of low fat burfi at Department of Animal Husbandry and Dairy Science, Dr PDKV Akola, Maharashtra during the year 2020-2021. Majority of consumers are health conscious considering same the present investigation was undertaken to reduce fat content and increase milk protein of burfi by using skim milk powder with main objectives to find out its nutritional properties. Burfi was prepared with five different combinations of cow milk and skim milk powder like 100:00 (T1), 80:20 (T2), 70:30 (T3), 60:40 (T4) and 50:50 (T5). The samples of burfi were analyzed for chemical evaluation and it was found that total sugar, protein, total solids, SNF and ash content was increased. Whereas, fat and moisture was decreased with increases in the level of skim milk powder in burfi preparation. Chemical properties of low fat cow milk burfi was prepared from 80% cow milk and 20% skim milk ','Keywords: Cow milk, Skim Milk Powder, Low Fat, Burfi, TS, SNF.','','',''),(3307,'107','Review on Pigeonpea based Fodder Intercropping System\r\n\r\n','Rajashree*, Eramma and Sahana','4 Review on Pigeonpea based Fodder Intercropping System Rajashree.pdf','',1,'ABSTRACT: Pigeonpea being a wide spaced and long duration crop gives ample opportunity to practice intercropping. Now-a-days fodder scarcity has become a major problem. There is a huge gap between fodder supply and fodder demand. This gap can be minimised by intensive cultivation of fodder crops. The inter row spacing of pigeonpea can be utilised for cultivating short duration fodder crops. This will not only help in mitigating fodder scarcity issues but also helps in improving the pigeonpea growth and yield. Several research studies have reported that intercropping fodder crops in pigeonpea have numerous benefits such as efficient utilisation of time, space, light and energy. It will also improve the system productivity.\r\n\r\n','Keywords: Fodder crop, growth, intercrop, PEY and pigeonpea.','','',''),(3308,'107','Genetic Variability, Heritability Studies of different Genotype in Turmeric (Curcuma longa)\r\n\r\n','Kanchan Pathak*, Vijay Bahadur and Netrapal Yadav','5 Genetic Variability, Heritability Studies of different Genotype in Turmeric _Curcuma longa_ Kanchan Pathak.pdf','',1,'ABSTRACT: The research on 24 genotypes of turmeric was carried out in SHUATS, Naini, Prayagraj to assess the genetic diversity contained in turmeric. The current study demonstrates that qualitative characteristics are beneficial in turmeric breeding and genetic analysis. This experiment was carried out and reproduced three times in R.B.D. The emergence percentage, number of tillers and leaves per plant, leaf length and breadth, plant height and girth, chlorophyll content, length, core diameter, and weight of the mother, primary and secondary rhizomes, number of primary and secondary rhizomes per plant, yield per plant and plot/ha, and curcumin content were all recorded. The weight of the mother rhizome, the length and weight of the primary and secondary rhizomes, the yield per plant and plot all had high phenotypic and genotypic coefficients of variation. Higher heredity (in the broad sense) was seen in the number of tillers per plant, leaf length and breath, plant height and girth, an','Keywords: Phenotypic Coefficient of Variation, Genotypic Coefficient of Variation, Heritability (Broad sense), Genetic advancement ','','',''),(3309,'107','Heterosis and Inbreeding Depression Study in Castor (Ricinus communis L.) using 21 Generations','I.R. Delvadiya*, R.B. Madariya and A.V. Ginoya','6 Heterosis and Inbreeding Depression Study in Castor Ricinus communis L. using 21 Generations I.R. Delvadiya 1460.pdf','',1,'ABSTRACT: Heterosis and inbreeding depression studies in castor were carried out on twelve characters against two crosses (SKI-346 Ã— JI-35 (cross 1) and SKI-346 Ã— SKI-215 (cross 2) using 21 Generations at Main Oilseeds Research Station, JAU, Junagadh, Gujarat. The information on heterosis and inbreeding depression together facilitates the breeder to take a decision on whether to exploit hybrid vigour or perform selection in segregating generations. The heterosis over better parent was found significant in desirable direction for days to flowering of primary raceme, days to maturity of primary raceme, number of nodes up to primary raceme, number of effective branches per plant, 100-seed weight, seed yield per plant and oil content in SKI-346 Ã— JI-35; and plant height up to primary raceme, number of nodes up to primary raceme and seed yield per plant in SKI-346 Ã— SKI-215. Significant and positive inbreeding depression was also observed for days to flowering of primary raceme and for ','Keywords: Relative heterosis, Heterobeltiosis. Inbreeding depression, Gene effects, 21 Generations, Castor.','','',''),(3310,'107','Efficacy of selected Mizo Ethnobotanicals on the Incidence of Contaminant Mycoflora of Oyster Mushroom [Pleurotus florida (Mont.) Singer] Cultivation','Malsawmtluangi*, Abhilasha A. Lal and Sobita Simon','7 Efficacy of selected Mizo Ethnobotanicals on the incidence of contaminant mycoflora of oyster mushroom [Pleurotus florida Mont. Singer] cultivation Malsawmtluangi.pdf','',1,'ABSTRACT: Pleurotus florida (Mont.) Singeris an edible mushroom and the third largest cultivated mushroom in the world. However, the limiting factor for its successful cultivation is the occurrence of weeds and competitor moulds. The crop frequently failed and fruiting bodies did not appear. But now, the knowledge derived from studies of their requirements for fruiting like nutrition, temperature, humidity, etc. has enabled their cultivation a sure and profitable industry. An experiment was conducted at the Mushroom Crop Room, Department of Plant Pathology, Sam Higginbottom University of Agriculture, Technology and Sciences, Prayagraj, Uttar Pradesh. The main objectives were to check the effect of four selected Mizo ethnobotanicals viz. Capsicum frutescens, Clerodendrum colebrookianum, Eryngium foetidum and Zingiber officinale @ 2% along with the most popular chemical treatment (carbendazim 75 ppm + formalin 500 ppm) against the growth and yield of the mushroom as well as against the o','Keywords: Capsicum frutescens, Clerodendrum colebrookianum, Eryngium foetidum, Mizo ethnobotanicals, mycoflora, Pleurotus florida, Zingiber officinale','','',''),(3311,'107','Influence of Soil and Weather Factors on Progression of Paddy Stem Rot Disease under Natural Condition','Gowdar S.B.*, Patil M.B., Gururaj Sunkad, Pramesh D., Masthana Reddy B.G. and Sujay Hurali','8 Influence of Soil and Weather Factors on Progression of Paddy Stem Rot Disease under Natural Condition Patil MB.pdf','',1,'ABSTRACT: Rice is a major cereal crop in Karnatakaâ€™s Tungabhadra Project, Upper Krishna Project and Cauvery command regions. Stem rot has been intermittent in the TBP and UKP command areas of North eastern Karnataka in recent years, but it can become a significant concern. The present investigation was carried out on influence of weather and soil factors on progression of paddy stem rot disease under natural condition in a fixed plot size (10 m Ã— 10 m) at Agricultural Research Station, Gangavathi, UAS Raichur, over the cropping season (Kharif 2017-18, Rabi/summer 2017-18, and Kharif 2018-19). The observations on per cent stem rot incidence were recorded at weekly interval (SMW - Standard Meteorological Weeks) till harvest on paddy cv. BPT-5204. The progression of paddy stem rot disease throughout the entire crop season (Kharif 2017-18, Rabi/summer 2017-18 and Kharif 2018-19) in the susceptible variety BPT-5204 revealed that the disease started (1.60) during the fifth week (40th SMW)','Keywords: Paddy, progression, standard meteorological weeks and stem rot. ','','',''),(3312,'107','Management of Early Blight of Tomato through Neem Formulation and Bio-inoculants\r\n\r\n','Anand Choudhary*, J.R. Verma, Dama Ram and Pooja Yadav','9 Management of Early Blight of Tomato through Neem Formulation and Bio-inoculants Anand Choudhary.pdf','',1,'ABSTRACT: Early blight disease is painful nerve to tomato growing farmer because it causes huge economic loss to the farmer every year. Alternaria solani cause early blight of tomato and it is considered weed of field because of its wide adaptability under different environment. Use of fungicides for the management of disease in crop puts a large number of negative health and environmental effects therefore, the urgent need for a more sustainable and ecological approach to manage disease without fungicides. To avoid relying solely on chemicals and to identify a viable alternative component, five neem formulations and four bio-inoculants were evaluated by Poison Food Technique and Dual Culture Technique in the lab in the year of 2020-21 against A. solani. Among neem formulations, neem oil (71.91%) was found effective inhibiting mycelial growth of A. solani followed by multineem (58.49%), Neem excel (48.92%) and Repellent plus (38.00%) at the mean of two concentration (1000 & 1500 ppm). ','Keywords: Alternaria solani, Early blight, Neem Formulation, Bio-inoculants, Mycelial inhibition.\r\n','','',''),(3313,'107','An Analysis of Families Engaged in Silk Production, Trend of Raw Silk Production and Area under Silkworm Food Plant Cultivation in Assam\r\n\r\n','Monimala Saikia* and Kumud Ghosh','10 An Analysis of Families Engaged in Silk Production, Trend of Raw Silk Production and Area under Silkworm Food Plant Cultivation in Assam Monimala Saikia.pdf','',1,'ABSTRACT: Assam is the third leading state of India in silk production by producing three commercial silks, viz., eri, muga and mulberry. A study was undertaken to analyse the growth of sericulture industry of Assam in terms of families engaged in silk production, trend of raw silk production and area under silkworm food plant cultivation in Assam during the period 2013-14 to 2019-20. It was found that the growth of sericulture villages, raw silk production and area under silkworm food plant cultivation during the study period was not stable and not always positive. The highest positive growth of engagement of families (188.18%) was observed in eri culture in the year 2014-15, muga and mulberry silk production was increasing slowly. In the year 2014-15, 2015-16, 2017-18 and 2019-20 area under silkworm food plant cultivation was decreased than the previous year except muga food plant area during 2019-20. Absence of regulated cocoon market, silk exchange centre, price fluctuation, techno','Keywords: Eri, Muga, Mulberry, Food Plant, Family Engaged, Silk Production, Growth.','','',''),(3316,'107','The Life Cycle of Shoot and Fruit Borer Leucinodes orbonalis (Guen.) on Eggplant in different Seasons under Samastipur conditions of Bihar, India','Ponnusamy N.*, Singh, S.P.N. and Sahoo S.K.','11 The Life Cycle of Shoot and Fruit Borer Leucinodes orbonalis _Guen._ on Eggplant in different Seasons under Samastipur conditions of Bihar, India Ponnusamy N.pdf','',1,'ABSTRACT: Shoot and fruit borer (Lucinodes orbonalis G.) is considered the most destructive pest of brinjal. The experiment on the life cycle of shoot and fruit borer was accompanied during Rabi 2019-20 and Kharif 2021 in the Department of Entomology, RPCAU, Pusa, Bihar, India. The matured larvae were collected from the field for the experiment of the life cycle in both the season. The results during Rabi 2019-20 exhibited that the incubation period was documented as 3.93 days. The growth periods of 1st, 2nd, 3rd, 4th and 5th instar larvae were noticed as 2.60, 2.68, 3.36, 3.85 and 3.95 days. The complete larval duration was documented as 15.86 days whereas the mean pupal period was recorded as 5.76 days. The Pre-oviposition was detected at 1.51 days whereas the oviposition period was observed at 2.95 days. The longevity of the male moth was recorded at 4.05 days whereas the female was 5.50 days. In the case of Kharif 2021, the incubation period was noticed as 3.86 days. The developme','Keywords: Shoot and fruit borer, life cycle, incubation period, pest management.','','',''),(3317,'93','Customer Satisfaction For i-banking Services: A Comparative Analysis of Public, Private & Foreign Sector Bank in India','Dr. Rakhi Sharma ','10 Customer Satisfaction For i-banking Services A Comparative Analysis of Public, Private & Foreign Sector Bank in India Dr Rakhi Sharma.pdf','',1,'ABSTRACT: India is pre-dominantly a cash economy. The opportunity for non-cash payment methods is considerable. Indian banking system, therefore, can spread its tentacles in such areas by means of providing e-banking services. Internet banking is rapidly becoming an important service for any size bank and is increasingly becoming prominent because of convenience and flexibility. Quality service assumes a noteworthy part in accomplishing consumer loyalty and creating brand dedication in keeping money division. Now-a-days internet is widely used by various public, private, and foreign sector banks to provide various banking services to the customers. In this paper customer satisfaction for i-banking services would be access on various service quality dimensions like Reliability, Accessibility, User-Friendliness, Security, Privacy and Responsiveness & their impact on customer satisfaction in Public, Private & Foreign Sector bank.','Keywords: Service Quality, I-banking, Reliability, Accessibility, User-friendliness, Security, Privacy and Responsiveness, Customer Satisfaction','','',''),(3318,'93','Mining Projects: A Slope towards Displacement','Dr. Ankur Pare ','11 Mining Projects A Slope towards Displacement Ankur Pare.pdf','',1,'ABSTRACT: Mining is critical to the production of commodities, services, & infrastructure, and it improves society\'s quality of life. The potential danger of waste and radioactivity produced by mining, dumping, as well as tailing, on the other hand, has prompted society to seek solutions to effectively handle mining waste from mine dumps, tailings, and abandoned mines. The aim of this research is to portray mining displacement & relocation as a global economic issue affecting individuals from all over the globe, as an importance to human rights and also as a subject of challenges to global public law as well as humanitarian assistance agencies. The displacement due to development refers mainly a socio-economic problem linked to the loss or significant decrease of people\'s access to basic human assets. The lack of accessibility to material land and other resources, meadows, woods, as well as fresh water would be given priority over the physical abandonment of existing housing as well as','Keywords: Displacement, Development, Mining-induced displacement, resettlement. ','','',''),(3319,'107','Effect of Varying Nitrogen and Phosphorus Levels on Growth and Yield of Maize (Zea mays L.) Cv. K-64','Tarun Kumar, Narendra Swaroop Tarence Thomas, Akshita Barthwal*, Raghu Nandan Singh Khatana and Dalavi Vishal Monahar','12 Effect of Varying Nitrogen and Phosphorus Levels on Growth and Yield of Maize Zea mays L. Cv. K-64 Tarun Kumar.pdf','',1,'ABSTRACT: During the Kharif season of 2018, a field study was conducted at the Soil Science & Agricultural Chemistry Research Farm, Sam Higginbottom University of Agriculture, Technology and Sciences, Prayagraj. The soil in the trial region is classified as Inceptisol, the result showed that in treatment T8 (120 kg N ha-1 and 60 kg P ha-1), maximum plant height 180.66 (cm), number of leaves 12.43, stem diameter 2.81(cm), cob length 14.56 (cm), weight of 100 seed 28.33 (g), grain yield 45.67 (q ha-1) and highest net profit of `53504.50 with cost benefit ratio is 1: 2.19 however, the minimum net profit of `1000.00 with cost benefit ratio is 1:1.02 in treatment T0 (control).\r\n\r\n','Keywords: Maize, Plant height, Number of leaves, Cob length and Grain yield.','','',''),(3320,'107','Biology of Pulse Beetle, Callosobruchus chinensis L. (Coleoptera: Chrysomelidae) on Pigeonpea, Cajanus cajan L. Seeds','Udagi, B.S., Manja Naik, C.*, Siddaraju, R. and Doddabasappa, B.','13 Biology of Pulse Beetle, Callosobruchus chinensis L. Coleoptera Chrysomelidae on Pigeonpea, Cajanus cajan L. Seeds Doddabasappa B.pdf','',1,'ABSTRACT: Biological attributes of pulse beetle, Callosobruchus chinensis L. was carried out on pigeonpea seeds in laboratory during 2020-21. The bruchid C. chinessis deposited their eggs singly on pigeonpea seeds. Incubation period varied from 4.95 Â± 0.76, 5.23 Â± 0.63 and 5.25 Â± 0.67 days during September to December. Grub moulted three times and thus had four larval instars wherein, the durations of instars were 19.35 Â± 1.43, 18.95 Â± 1.33 and 20.00 Â± 1.14 days during September to October, October to November and November to December, respectively. The mean pupal period of C. chinensis from September to December was 4.40 to 4.57 days. Mean adult longevity was 8.00 to 8.77 days during September to December. Sex ratio (Female: Male) was 1:1.33. As certain the pulse beetle biology which helps to understand the week stage of the menace and to develop the effective management strategies against this insect to protect the pigeonpea seed during storage. \r\n\r\n','Keywords: Callosobruchus chinensis, biology, Cajanus cajan, seeds.','','',''),(3321,'107','Usages of Social Media Sites among Adolescents: An Explorative Study\r\n\r\n','Kshiptimayee Patra* and Sampreety Gogoi','14 Usages of Social Media Sites among Adolescents An Explorative Study Kshiptimayee Patra.pdf','',1,'ABSTRACT: The use of social media has led to a significant transformation in how individuals communicate and interact. People are increasingly using Social Networking Sites (SNS), particularly young teens. Social media allows us to interact with others and maintain a good social relationship with them. Adolescents are more dependent on such sites for a variety of reasons, including keeping in touch with friends, taking notes, staying up to date on new trends, and staying up to date on current events, among others. Adolescents become social media addicts who spend more time on these sites than adults. This can have an impact on their academic performance as well as their physical and mental health in their later life. The study was an attempt to identify different social media sites used by adolescents, reasons for using different social media sites by the adolescent. The respondents were high school students of class VII to class X from the Jorhat block of Assam. A total of 118 numbers','Keywords: Social media sites, adolescents, usage, probability proportional to size (PPS), WhatsApp','','',''),(3322,'107','Phosphate Solubilizing Bacteria as a Biofertilizer\r\n\r\n','Eramma*, Sahana and Rajashree','15 Phosphate Solubilizing Bacteria as a Biofertilizer Eramma.pdf','',1,'ABSTRACT: Phosphorus is a crucial nutrient needed for crop growth, it plays major role in both as a constituent of plant structural compounds and act as activator for many plant biochemical reactions. Phosphorus is mentioned specifically for its role in absorbing and changing sunâ€™s power into beneficial plant compound. The utilization of phosphatic solubilizing bacteria in agricultural practice might not only best off set the excessive value of synthetic phosphatic fertilizer however additionally solubilize the insoluble phosphorous within the fertilizer and soils to which they applied. Phosphate solubilizing bacteria across the roots of plant life and in soils has been proven to release soluble phosphorous, enhance plant growth and safeguards the vegetation from pathogen attack.\r\n\r\n','Keywords: Phosphate Solubilizing Bacteria, Biofertilizers, Solubilization.','','',''),(3323,'107','Study of Engineering Properties of N-53 Onion Bulb\r\n\r\n','Amita Gautam*, S.V. Jogdand, R.K. Naik and Jitendra Trivedi','16 Study of Engineering Properties of N-53 Onion Bulb Amita Gautam.pdf','',1,'ABSTRACT: Onion is one of the most widely produced vegetables in India. It is very important to know the properties of onion bulb to understand its behavior for design and development of machinery to handle the onion bulb. In this study various engineering properties of onion bulb were studied in prospect to design of onion digger cum separator. Throughout the experiment, an onion bulb of variety N-53 was used. The physical properties were measured namely polar diameter, equatorial diameter, thickness, geometric mean diameter, sphericity, shape index, aspect ratio, surface area, frontal surface area, cross sectional area, mass of onion bulb, bulk density, true density, porosity, moisture content of onion and also mechanical properties like angle of repose and coefficient of static friction were measured. There was linear relationship obtained between geometric mean diameter and mass of onion as the GMD increases the mass of the onion increase. Obtained properties of the onion bulb are ','Keywords: Onion bulb, physical properties, mechanical properties and geometric mean diameter.','','',''),(3324,'107','Effect of Dietary Non-structural Carbohydrate Levels on Faecal characteristics in Mecheri Lambs\r\n','P. Senthilkumar, P. Vasan*, B. Mohan, P. Selvaraj and J. Muralidharan\r\n','17 Effect of Dietary Non-structural Carbohydrate Levels on Faecal characteristics in Mecheri Lambs P. Senthilkumar.pdf','',1,'ABSTRACT: An experiment was conducted in thirty-two Mecheri ram lambs, aged about 15 days with uniform body weight. Animals were randomly allotted into four groups of 8 lambs each viz., T1, T2, T3, and T4 in a completely randomized design and reared for 3 months of weaning age. The four isonitrogenous and isocaloric complete diets varying in non-structural carbohydrate (NSC) levels were prepared and offered to the respective treatment groups ad libitum throughout the study in addition to milk suckling from their dam. The DMI and BCS were lower in T1 and were increased as dietary NSC levels increases. Among the treatment groups, lambs on a higher NSC diet (T4) had significantly (P<0.05) higher faecal scores and a better score was observed for T2. The faecal DM, NDF content was significantly (P<0.05) lower and the NSC content was higher in T4 group. It could be concluded that a higher level of NSC in the diet increased the faecal score, indicates that the disturbance in the rumen ferment','Keywords: Lambs, Non-structural carbohydrate, Body condition score, Faecal consistency.','','',''),(3325,'107','Effect of Different Dates of Sowing on the Incidence and Severity of Spot Blotch Disease of Wheat\r\n\r\n','Puja Kumari*, C.S. Azad and Amarendra Kumar','18 Effect of Different Dates of Sowing on the Incidence and Severity of Spot Blotch Disease of Wheat Puja Kumari.pdf','',1,'ABSTRACT: Spot blotch disease is quite prevalent in warmer region, and its sowing time play important role in its incidence and severity. The result of the experiment clearly showed that timely sown (11th Nov.) wheat have given the best results in terms of all aspects (double-digit scoring- 00, PDI- 26.67, DI %- 40.08 of V7- HD 3267) to late sown (16th Dec.) double-digit scoring- 14, PDI- 35.55, DI %- 47.05 of V7- HD 3267 and very late sown (7th Jan.) double-digit scoring- 15, PDI- 28.88, DI %- 76.22 of V7- HD 3267 respectively. Maximum disease severity was observed from V9- DBW 71 for all three different dates of sowing. V7 (HD 3267) has given the best result in terms of disease incidence and disease severity.\r\n\r\n','Keywords: Bipolaris sorokiniana, Genotype, Severity, Disease incidence, Percent disease index (PDI).','','',''),(3326,'107','Characteristics of Farmer Producer Company Members and their Perceived Constraints with Reference to Commercial Potato Production and Marketing','Manisha Barman*, Pabitra K. Das, Indrajit Barman and S.D. Deka','19 Characteristics of Farmer Producer Company Members and their Perceived Constraints with Reference to Commercial Potato Production and Marketing Manisha Barman.pdf','',1,'ABSTRACT: Farmer Producer company model is considered to be a very effective tool for overall socio-economic development of small and marginal farmers in India. The effectiveness and success of the company primarily depends upon meaningful participation of their members, their skills and how well they understand the internal and external environment of the company. Keeping this in view, 18 variables were included in the study to analyze the characteristics of the members of the selected FPCs. It was found in the study that majority of the respondents had medium level of scientific orientation (62.50%), leadership ability (53.33%), decision making ability (64.17%), risk orientation (65.00%), achievement motivation (58.34%) economic motivation (66.67%) and also medium level of information exposure (75.00%) and training exposure (55.83%). The major perceived constraints found by the members were â€˜Lack of credit facilityâ€™ (81.67%) in production and â€˜problem of price var','Keywords: Farmer Producer Company, Commercial potato production, Constraints, Primary producer, Marginal and Small farmers.','','',''),(3327,'107','Growth and Yield of Mustard (Brassica juncea) as Influenced by Different Sowing Dates and Spacing','P.C. Lalruatfeli*, A.A. Choudhary and N.R. Mairan','20 Growth and Yield of Mustard Brassica juncea as Influenced by Different Sowing Dates and Spacing PC. Lalruatfeli.pdf','',1,'ABSTRACT: Sowing dates and spacing plays an important role in producing a good yield in mustard. Since optimum sowing time and spacing varies in different region according to the climatic conditions, there is a need to find the optimum time of sowing and spacing for a particular area. The present investigation entitled â€œGrowth and Yield of Mustard (Brassica juncea) as influenced by different sowing dates and spacingâ€ was carried out at College of Agriculture, Nagpur with 12 treatment combinations replicated thrice. Sowing in first week of November recorded significantly higher plant height, number of branches plant-1, dry matter plant-1, Absolute Growth Rate (AGR) and Relative Growth Rate (RGR) than sowing done in second and third week of November. It also recorded highest seed and straw yield (kg ha-1) and yield decreased progressively with delayed sowing. Crop spacing of 45 Ã— 10 cm also recorded highest growth attributes, growth rates as well as seed and straw yield over spacin','Keywords: Mustard, sowing dates, spacing, growth attributes, yield.','','',''),(3328,'107','Effect of Spacing and Phosphorous Levels on Growth and Yield of Finger Millet (Eleusine coracana L.)','Baddipadige Prem Sai Reddy, Rajesh Singh, Ekta Singh and Punnam Chhetri','21 Effect of Spacing and Phosphorous Levels on Growth and Yield of Finger Millet _Eleusine coracana L._ Baddipadige Prem Sai Reddy.pdf','',1,'A field trial become executed at Crop Research Farm, Department of Agronomy. Naini Agricultural Institute, SHUATS, Prayagraj in Zaid 2021 to decide the effect of spacing and phosphorous levels on growth and yield of finger millet. The accommodates of three spacings viz., (30 Ã— 10 cm, 45 Ã— 10 cm, 60 Ã— 10 cm) and three Phosphorous levels (20 kg/ha P, 30kg/ha S and 40 kg/ha S). The experiment was laid out in Randomized Block Design with nine remedies every replicated thrice. The end result confirmed that utility of phosphorous on numerous spacings confirmed vast varient for growth and yield parameters. Among all of the remedies, utility of 40 kg P with 60 cm row spacing recorded maximum Plant height (86.41 cm), No. of tillers/plant (12.54), plant dry-weight (14.68 g), No. of fingers/plant (6.71), Test weight (3.09 g/1000 seeds) while utility of 40 kg P with 30 cm row spacing recorded grain yield of (2.94 t/ha) and straw yield (6.22 t/ha) and Harvest Index (32.11 %). However, the Maximu',' Finger Millet, Phosphorus, Spacing, Tillers, Fingers, growth and yield','','',''),(3329,'107','Studies on Seasonal Incidence of Aphid on Potato (Solanum tuberosum L.)\r\n\r\n','Surajkumar S. Landge*, Ganesh M. Bansode, Santoshkumar A. More and Sunil R. Lohate','22 Studies on Seasonal Incidence of Aphid on Potato Solanum tuberosum L. Surajkumar S. Landge.pdf','',1,'ABSTRACT: The main objective of present investigation is to study seasonal incidence of aphid on potato crop and establishing correlations with different weather parameters viz; temperature (maximum temperature, minimum temperature and average temperature), relative humidity (morning relative humidity, evening relative humidity and average relative humidity), wind velocity, rainfall. The experiment was carried out at farmerâ€™s field at Kodit Tal. Purandar, Dist. Pune (Maharashtra) during Rabi season 2020-2021. The studies on seasonal incidence revealed that the first incidence of aphid was commenced after three weeks of planting at 48th SWM and it remains active throughout the crop growth period. The peak infestation of aphid (496 aphids/100 compound leaves) was observed at 1st SMW (1st week of January, 2021) when maximum temperature (28.39Â¬Â¬Â°C), minimum temperature (13.24Â°C), average temperature (20.82Â°C), morning relative humidity (91.88%), evening relative humidity (54.33%), a','Keywords: Potato, Aphid, Seasonal incidence, Correlation, Weather parameters. ','','',''),(3330,'107','Integrated Nutrient Management in Okra [Abelmoschus esculentus (L.) Moench] using Bio-fertilizers\r\n\r\n','Kanwaljeet Kaur, Narayan Singh, Vasudha Maurya, Ashutosh Sharma and Rahul Kumar*','23 Integrated Nutrient Management in Okra [Abelmoschus esculentus L. Moench] using Bio-fertilizers Rahul Kumar.pdf','',1,'ABSTRACT: Okra is a summer season vegetable crop, grown for its tender pods. For the environment friendly and sustainable cultivation of okra, the replacement of chemical fertilizers with the appropriate amount of bio-fertlizers may prove useful. In order to investigate the effect of various combination of chemical and bio-fertilizers on the growth and yield of okra, a field experiment was conducted at the experimental farm of Faculty of Agricultural Sciences, DAV University, Jalandhar during the summer season of 2019. The field experiment was laid out in randomized block design with three replications and ten treatments, comprising of chemical and bio-fertilizers viz. T1 control, T2 [Recommended dose of fertilizers (RDF) of Azosprillium spp. + 50% N + 100% P and K], T3 (50% Azosprillium spp. + 75% N + 100% P and K), T4 (Azotobacter spp. + 50% N + 100% P and K), T5 (50% Azotobacter spp. + 75% N + 100% P and K), T6 [50% Phosphorous solubilizing bacteria (PSB) + 50% P + 100% N and K], T','Keywords: Chemical fertilizers, yield, growth parameters, phosphate solubilizing bacteria, Azosprillium spp., Azotobacter spp.','','',''),(3331,'107','Recent Progress and Prospects of Metabolomics in Crop Plants: A Review\r\n\r\n','J.P. Sahoo*, P. Mishra, P. Pradhan and K.C. Samal','24 Recent Progress and Prospects of Metabolomics in Crop Plants A Review Jyoti Prakash Sahoo.pdf','',1,'ABSTRACT: The chemical composition of the food crops is the main source to determine their nutritional value and safety for consumption. The latest development in metabolomics characterizes the metabolic profile of crop plants in a high-throughput experimental approach. It is an important branch of â€œomicsâ€ to identify, quantify, and characterize metabolites and cellular regulatory pathway processes in various biological species. The complete metabolite of an organism is called the metabolome. It can be assessed to know the genetic or environmental differences in plant species. The metabolomics play a significant part in finding out gene-environment interactions, mutant identification, phenotyping, and biomarkers\' identification and characterization. The concept of metabolomics is an emerging method to unravel the complications of different metabolic pathway networks linked to various stress tolerance in crops. Advanced metabolomics is a term that refers to the study of the metaboli','Keywords: Untargeted metabolomics, metabolic profiling, mass spectrometry, omics.','','',''),(3332,'107','Drought characterization by using UNEP Aridity Index\r\n\r\n','Sunil Kumar* and Shweta Gautam','25 Drought characterization by using UNEP Aridity Index Sunil Kumar.pdf','',1,'ABSTRACT: UNEP Aridity Index (UNEP AI) methods was used to identify meteorological drought for long term (1990-2019) in Bundelkhand region of India. The percentage of drought occurrence were obtained by taking the ratio of drought occurrences to the total drought occurrences for particular time and particular drought category. The drought occurrence probabilities were calculated by using each drought event for all stations in each district in Bundelkhand region based on UNEP AI. Time relative frequency of drought occurrence in different classes viz. Hyper arid, arid and semi-arid were categorized based on UNEP aridity index values. The highest probability of occurrence for extreme drought (3.33 %) was monitored in three districts Chhatarpur, Damoh and Lalitpur. The highest percentage was observed at Jalaun district as 8.00 % for severe drought and of the moderate drought as 11.33 % at Jhansi district. The highest probability of occurrence for hyper arid (9.33 %) was monitored in Datia ','Keywords: Drought, UNEP aridity index, Hyper arid, probability of occurrence, time relative frequency.','','',''),(3333,'107','Assessment of Seed Dormancy in Different Rice Varieties\r\n','Chiranjeevi C. Kulkarni*, D. Lenka, K. C. Muduli, D.N. Bastia, S. Mohanty, R.K. Panda, S.K. Swain and S.P. Monalisa\r\n','26 Assessment of Seed Dormancy in Different Rice Varieties Chiranjeevi C Kulkarni.pdf','',1,'ABSTRACT: An investigation has been planned to study the dormancy duration in different rice varieties. About 54 rice varieties of different groups (early, medium and late maturing) released from Odisha University of Agriculture and Technology (OUAT) and National Rice Research Institute (NRRI), Cuttack were studied for duration of seed dormancy. The fresh seeds of 54 rice varieties harvested during kharif 2017 exhibited variation in dormancy duration ranging from 4-79 days. Based on dormancy duration, the 54 rice varieties were classified into five categories viz., very weak (0-7 days), weak (7-14 days), moderate (14-21 days), strong (21-28 days) and very strong (> 28 days). The least dormancy duration of 4.00 days was recorded in variety Khandagiri and the varieties CR Dhan 506 and CR Dhan 508 showed highest dormancy duration of 79.00 days. The study focuses on the existence of wide range of dormancy in 54 rice varieties for using them as donors in the future rice improvement programm','Keywords: Duration of dormancy, Germination, Rice, Seed dormancy, Varieties','','',''),(3335,'107','Mean Performance of Promising Genotypes of Cluster Bean (Cyamopsis tetragonoloba L. Taub.) for Yield and Yield Attributing Traits Over Three Locations','Rachamalla Ravi Teja, P. Saidaiah, A. Kiran Kumar, A. Geetha and K. Bhasker','27 Mean Performance of Promising Genotypes of Cluster Bean _Cyamopsis tetragonoloba L. Taub._ for Yield and Yield Attributing Traits Over Three Locations Rachamalla Ravi Teja.pdf','',1,'Despite of huge demand for the crop, only limited breeding work has been done and very little attention has been given for its genetic improvement to enhance the productivity level. Before coming out with any superior variety with better yield there is need to periodically check the performance of available germplasm in comparison to best performing variety of that agro-climatic region, the purpose of this study is to identify the high yielding genotypes. A field investigation of twenty five genotypes of cluster bean including one check were evaluated in Randomized Block Design with three replications during Kharif, 2019 at three locations representing three agroclimatic Zones of Telangana i.e., PG Research Block, College of Horticulture, Rajendranagar, Hyderabad (Southern Telangana Zone), JVR Horticultural Research Station, Malyal, Mahabubabad (Central Telangana Zone) and progressive farmers field at Vemulawada, Karimnagar (Northern Telangana Zone) for yield and yield attributing trai','Mean performance, Cluster bean genotypes, Pod yield','','',''),(3336,'107','Nutritional and Organoleptic Characteristics of Cookies Prepared from Sprouted Pea Flour Blends','G.K. Rana, S.P. Mishra, H.K. Rahangdale, J. Pandey, C. P. Rahangdale, K. K. Deshmukh and Yogendra Singh','28 Nutritional and Organoleptic Characteristics of Cookies Prepared from Sprouted Pea Flour Blends G K Rana.pdf','',1,'The present investigation aimed to formulate and develop sprouted pea flour cookies by substituting refined wheat flour with pea flour to fight with malnutrition from cheap source as baked products for mankind at different levels (at 0, 05, 10, 15, 20 and 25%). Results indicated that the cookies prepared with 90% of refined wheat flour and 10% of sprouted pea flour (SPF) (T3) were most acceptable in view of sensory analysis. The carbohydrates, crude fat, fibre and energy value of treatment T1 was found maximum while protein, ash, Ca. P, Fe and moisture was found maximum in treatment T6. Blending of refined wheat flour with SPF upto 10% was most likely to acceptable by panel','SPF, Composite flour, Legumes and high nutritional value','','',''),(3337,'107','A Study of Sensory Evaluation in Endangered Aromatic Orchid Aerides odorata from North-Eastern Himalayan','Suman Natta, Ram Pal, Bharath Kumar Alam, Siddhartha Sankar Biswas and Kalaivanan N.S.','29 A Study of Sensory Evaluation in Endangered Aromatic Orchid Aerides odorata from North-Eastern Himalayan Suman Natta.pdf','',1,'Aerides odorata, an endangered aromatic orchid species belongs to the Orchidaceae family is a subtropical epiphytic orchid commonly grown in North Eastern Himalayan region. Its magnificent racemes of fragrant, pleasantly aromatic nature with long shelf life and colorful flowers are valued in horticulture sector and have a high demand in the local market. In the present investigation, the sensory evaluation study was conducted to identify the best fragrant collection of Aerides odorata from four distinct collections at ICAR-NRCO, Sikkim. The aroma score of collection 1 (5.60 Â± 0.26) were significantly different from those of the other collections (C2, C3 and C4). Collection 3 scored the highest acceptability rating followed by Collection 2 and 4. Separate and overall recording of male and female acceptability showed that Collection 1 and 3 had the highest acceptability percentage. Pearson\'s Chi-squared test based on the perception of individual participants showed significant result ','Orchid, Aerides odorata, sensory evaluation, aroma','','',''),(3338,'107','Effect of Planting Method and Row Spacing on Nutrient Content and its Uptake in different Plant Parts of Bud Chip Planted Sugarcane (Saccharum officinarum L.) in Sub-tropical Region of India','Anupama Rawat, Naresh Malik, Subhash Chandra, Rohitasav Singh and Rakesh Kumar','30 Effect of Planting Method and Row Spacing on Nutrient Content and its Uptake in different Plant Parts of Bud Chip Planted Sugarcane _Saccharum officinarum L._ in Sub-tropical Region of India-Anupama Rawat.pdf','',1,'A field experiment was conducted on spring planted sugarcane during 2019-20 and 2020-21 at GB Pant University of Agriculture and Technology, Pantnagar. The objective of the study was to observe the effect of various planting methods and row spacing on cane yield, nutrient content and itâ€™s uptake by bud chip raised sugarcane settlings and conventionally planted sugarcane. Sugarcane is a long duration crop owing to which it requires careful management in terms of input application and utilization. Conventional planting restricts proper growth and development of sugarcane and also creates deleterious environment for crop resulting in poor yield and cane quality. The experiment comprised of 9 treatments each replicated thrice and total of 27 experimental units. The effect of planting method and row spacing was found to be significant on nutrient uptake by the crop. The results revealed that significantly highest cane yield was recorded under furrow planting (100.7 and 101.6 t/ha during 2','Bio-fuel, bud chip, byproducts, nutrients, settlings, sugarcane','','',''),(3339,'107','Effect of Subsurface Drainage on Water Soluble Ions of Saline Vertisol Under TBP Command Area','Sahana, H. Veeresh, K. Narayana Rao, S.N. Bhat and B.S. Polisgowdar','31 Effect of Subsurface Draiange on Water Soluble Ions of Saline Vertisol Under TBP Command Sahana.pdf','',1,'A study was conducted to ensure the impact of subsurface drainage system on salt affected soils in the TBP command area, Karnataka. The mean values of water soluble cations i.e., Ca+ Mg, Na and K of pre-drainage soil samples was ranged from 8.12 to 20.02, 26.37 to 44.19 and 0.24 to 0.35 meq 100 g-1 respectively and it was reduced in post- drainage soil samples i.e., 3.26 to 11.86, 11.08 to 32.09, 0.16 to 0.28 meq 100 g-1 for Ca+Mg, Na and K respectively. Similarly the mean values of SAR and water soluble anions i.e., Cl- , SO42- and HCO3- of pre-drainage soil samples was ranged from 8.23 to 14.41, 37.14 to 65.76, 18.39 to 37.86 and 2.13 to 3.12 meq 100 g-1 respectively it was reduced in post- drainage soil samples i.e., 5.46 to 12.19, 19.95 to 38.13, 10.82 to 31.55 and 1.27 to 1.72 meq 100 g-1 for Clâ€“, SO42- and HCO3- respectively. The concentration of SAR, water soluble cations and anions in the post-drainage soil samples was reduced in all the depths than that of corresponding dept','SSD, post- drainage, post-drainage, SAR, water soluble cations, water soluble anions','','',''),(3340,'107','Effect of Spacing and Phosphorus Levels on Growth and Yield of Lentil (Lens culinaris Medikus)','Anpur Saikiran Goud, Rajesh Singh and Punnam Chhetri','32 Effect of Spacing and Phosphorus Levels on Growth and Yield of Lentil _Lens culinaris Medikus_ Anpur Saikiran Goud.pdf','',1,': A field experiment was carried out during Rabi season in 2020 at the Crop Research Farm (CRF), Department of Agronomy, Naini Agricultural Institute (NAI), SHUATS, Prayagraj, Uttar Pradesh. The soil of the experiment field is sandy-loamy texture. The organic carbon content is low and nitrogen, phosphorus is available in medium level and potassium is low. The treatments consisted of Spacing viz., 25 cm Ã— 10 cm, 30 cm Ã— 10 cm and 35 cm Ã— 10 cm and Phosphorus levels viz., 40 kg P/ha, 50 kg P/ha and 60 kg P/ ha, whose effect is observed in lentil (K-75). The experiment was planned in a RBD (Randomized Block Design) with nine treatments replicated three times. The result showed that the treatment with 35 cm Ã— 10 cm + P with 60 kg/ha application recorded significantly higher plant height (32.58 cm), number of branches/plant (8.60), number of nodules/plant (10.33), Dry weight of the plant (12.73 g/plant), number of pods/plant (112.00), number of seeds/pod (1.47), test weight (32.85) and ','Lentil, Spacing, Phosphorus levels and Grain yield','','',''),(3341,'107','Insect Pest Complex of Chickpea Crop','Sheikh Aafreen Rehman, Shaheen Gul, Mudasir Gani, Ishtiyaq Ahad, Reyaz ul Rouf Mir, Fehim Jeelani Wani, Zaffar M. Dar and Danishta Aziz','33 Insect Pest Complex of Chickpea Crop Sheikh Aafreen Rehman.pdf','',1,'Chickpea is an important pulse crop grown worldwide. Looking into the significance of chickpea, as it finds a pride place among pulses across the world and India therefore current study was carried out during kharif (2020) to observe various insect pests on chickpea crop. Nearly 7 insect species have been found as main damaging pests in the crop, out of which three were soil borne viz. whitegrub (Holotrichia longipennis), wireworm (Agriotes spp.) and cutworm (Agrotis ipsilon) and four were foliage pests viz. black aphid (Aphis craccivora), gram pod borer (Helicoverpa armigera), semilooper (Thysanopulsia orichalcea) and flea beetle (Altica himensis). Apart from insect pests, non-insect pest i.e. field rat was also found to damage the crop. Among insect pests, H. armigera pest severely attacks the chickpea right from vegetative phase to maturity stage. The present study advocates wide range of location specific pest complex in chickpea to develop prophylactic reproducible practices for l','Chickpea, pest complex, insect damage, sucking pests, foliage feeders','','',''),(3342,'107','Surface Sterilization and in vitro Callusing of Gerbera jamesonii Bolus cv. Balance','Ruchi Sharma and Sashikala Beura','34 Surface Sterilization and in vitro Callusing of Gerbera jamesonii Bolus cv.pdf','',1,'Microbial contamination is one of the major setback and act as a barrier in establishing in vitro cultures for which the disinfection procedure of explants prior to inoculation is important and this experiment was investigated with the objective to procure disease free in vitro aseptic culture of Gerbera jamesonii Bolus cv. Balance and callus induction in supplemented MS media using quarter capitulum as explant. Explants for surface sterilization treatment were subjected to 0.1% HgCl2 solution alone for different span of time and in combination with 0.5% NaOCl solution for 2 minutes along with control (Distl. water) and result revealed significant reduced rate of fungal and bacterial contamination with increased aseptic cultures when explant were soaked with 0.1% HgCl2 solution for 6 min. followed by 0.5% NaOCl solution for 2 minutes. The aseptic culture obtained were transferred in MS media containing different combinations of BAP, IAA for callus induction and callus proliferation, wh','gerbera, in-vitro, capitulum, surface sterilization, callus','','',''),(3343,'107','Integrated Disease Management of Basal Stem Rot of Arecanut caused by Ganoderma spp. under Field conditions','Bachu Raghavendra, B. Gangadhara Naik, M.K. Naik, H. P. Maheswarappa, R. Ganesha Naik and K. M. Satish','35 Integrated Disease Management of Basal Stem Rot of Arecanut caused by Ganoderma spp. under Field Conditions Bachu Raghavendra.pdf','',1,'In the current experiment, an integrated disease management trial was conducted in the farmerâ€™s field infested with basal stem rot of arecanut from November 2019 to August 2021 at Arabilachi village, Bhadravathi Taluk Karnataka, by imposing eight treatments, T1 to T8. Among the treatments imposed, T4 (Soil application of 10 liters of Hexaconazole 5% EC @ 2 ml/lit water/palm at half-yearly interval followed by soil application of Trichoderma virens enriched with 2 kg neem cake/ palm 15 days after chemical application) was found effective, where a slight increase in disease index (4.87 %) over the initial and maximum green nut yield (9.70 kg/palm in 2020 and 11.12 kg/palm in 2021) was recorded, which is followed by T6 (Soil application of T. virens and P. fluorescens @100g each along with neem cake@ 2kg/palm yearly + Root feeding of 3 ml of Hexaconazole (5% EC) in 100 ml water at half-year interval) where 7.96 kg/palm in 2020 and 9.55 kg/palm in 2021 was observed. In contrast, the leas','Basal stem rot, Hexaconazole, Trichoderma virens, Disease index, and Green nut yield','','',''),(3344,'107','Quality Attributes of Optimized Tiger Nut (Cyperus esculentus) milk Based Probiotic Drink','Malashree L., Ramachandra B. and Prabha R.','36 Quality Attributes of Optimized Tiger Nut _Cyperus esculentus_ milk Based Probiotic Drink Malashree L.pdf','',1,'In this study objective was to prepare probiotic drink by blending of tiger nut aqueous extract (TNAE) and cow milk owing to dairy functional food. Tiger nut aqueous extract with dilution of 1:4 sterilized and inoculated with two probiotic strains Lactobacillus acidophilus and Bifidobacterium animalis ssp. lactis BB-12 separately and had titratable acidity 0.66 % LA and direct microscopic count of log107.54 per g. The blend of TNAE and cow milk was formulated to 75:25 had pH of 6.5; viscosity 0.98 cP at 20 Â°C, specific gravity of 1.001g/ml; titratable acidity of 0.15 % LA, lactose content of 0.40%, fat content of 4.02 %, protein of 2.80 %, total solid of 10.8 % with no lactose. The blended milk was heat treated at 85Â°C/30 min, 2% inoculum of Bifidobacterium BB-12, incubated at 37Â°C for 24 h yielded better titratable acidity of 0.86 % LA, DMC of 8.74 and best score for overall acceptability 8.25. Blend with 0.25 % stevia resulted in 0.85 % LA and 8.57 log10 cfu/ml and accepted w','Tiger nut, Tiger nut aqueous extract, Probiotic drink, functional drink, Fermented beverage.','','',''),(3345,'107','Soil Drenching and Foliar Application of Nutrient based Biostimulants on Growth, and Morphometric Traits of Tomato under Water Limited Condition','M. Abirami, P. Jeyakumar, V. Ravichandran and N. Sakthivel','37 Soil Drenching and Foliar Application of Nutrient based Biostimulants on Growth, and Morphometric Traits of Tomato under Water Limited Condition P. Jeyakumar.pdf','',1,'Water deficit is one of the most common a biotic stress factors affecting crop production globally. Indiscriminate usage of agrochemicals and fertilizers in vegetable production leads to many ecological issues. To minimize the excessive usage of chemical fertilizers, plant based growth promoting products like biostimulants are extensively used in the present days. Nutrient based biostimulants represents a group of environmental practices intended to improve crop stress tolerance and to mitigate the adverse effects on crop productivity. In this study, foliar application of Orthol-O2, a biostimulant based on Ortho-silicic acid (OSA) and soil drenching of Talete 20, a seaweed extract (SE) were studied on tomato plants grown under water limited condition. The plants were exposed to water limited condition (80% of the water given to treatment plants) after crop establishment stage. The response of biostimulants was recorded at 45-55 days after transplantation (DAT) and 55-65 DAT intervals. ','Tomato, drought, biostimulants, Ortho-silicic acid, growth, and morphometric traits','','',''),(3346,'107','Antibacterial Ability of Beauveria bassiana (Balsamo) Vuillemin against Xanthomonas oryzae pv. oryzae causing Bacterial leaf Blight of Rice','Lipa Deb, R.K. Tombisana Devi, Pranab Dutta, Dipali Majumder, Dwipendra Thakuria, T. Rajesh and Kennedy Ningthoujam','38 Antibacterial Ability of Beauveria bassiana _Balsamo_ Vuillemin against Xanthomonas oryzae pv. oryzae causing Bacterial leaf Blight of Rice Lipa Deb.pdf','',1,'Beauveria bassiana (Balsamo) Vuillemin, a white muscardine fungus has drawn attention worldwide as potential biocontrol agent against insect-pests since decades. In the rice ecosystem, B. bassiana has been established as potential mycoinsecticide against major insect-pests of rice viz., Cnaphalocrocis medunalis, Nilaparvata lugens, Dicladispa armigera, Scirpophaga incertulas etc., but its efficacy against phytopathogens of rice in simultaneous application is least studied. Among major phytopathogens of rice, bacterial leaf blight incurs a yield loss of up to 12-75%, affecting crop at seedling, tillering and vegetative stages. Therefore, recent studies have inclined towards unravelling antimicrobial potential of B. bassiana as effective plant disease antagonist, thereby, opening a newer dimension in dual-purpose crop protection strategies. In the present study, antagonistic abilities of fifteen (15) native isolates of B. bassiana were evaluated against Xanthomonas oryzae pv. oryzae caus','Antibacterial, B. bassiana, entomopathogen, X. oryzae pv. oryzae, rice','','',''),(3347,'107','Effect of Deficit and Optimum Irrigation at various Growth Stages on Yield Attributes, Yield and Water Productivity of Summer Sesame','P. Neeshma, K.B. Suneetha Devi, B. Shobha Rathod and A. Krishna Chaitanya','39 Effect of Deficit and Optimum Irrigation at various Growth Stages on Yield Attributes, Yield and Water Productivity of Summer Sesame P. Neeshma.pdf','',1,'Water is a limited asset and experiencing competition among agricultural, industrial and domestic sectors. Plants require ample quantities of water throughout the life cycle/cropping period and water is considered as key input for agricultural production. Among all the factors for crop production, water is found to be the major impediment in reducing the yields. Deficit irrigation is a water resource management strategy that optimize the water demand with increase in crop yield thereby improving water use efficiency (WUE). A field experiment was conducted at Agricultural college, Polasa, Jagtial during summer 2021. The experiment was laid out in a randomized complete block design with eight deficit and optimum irrigated treatments (T1 to T8). Results revealed that treatment provided with 5 irrigations each at vegetative, prebloom, flowering, capsule initiation and capsule filling stages (T8) recorded higher yield attributes, yield and water productivity i.e., number of capsules plant-1','Sesame, Deficit and optimum irrigation, Yield, Field water productivity, Crop water productivity','','',''),(3348,'107','Influence of Sulphur and Boron on Yield and Economics of Sunflower (Helianthus annuus L.)','G. Rahul, Rajesh Singh and Ekta Singh','40 Influence of Sulphur and Boron on Yield and Economics of Sunflower _Helianthus annuus L. G. Rahul.pdf','',1,'A field trial was laid out during Zaid 2021 at Crop Research Farm, Department of Agronomy, SHUATS, Prayagraj (U.P.). The soil of trial plot was sandy loam in texture, nearly neutral in soil reaction (pH 7.3), low in organic carbon (0.57%), available N (230 kg/ha), available P (32.10 kg/ha) and available K (235 kg/ha). The treatments consist of two levels of sulphur soil application and four levels of boron with a control. The trial was laid out in randomized block design with nine treatments each replicated thrice. It is concluded that application of 40 kg/ha Sulphur + 1.5 kg/ha Boron recorded considerably greater grain yield (1429.28 kg/ha), gross return (83,988.16 `/ha), net return (56,258.92 `/ha) and benefit cost ratio (2.16). These findings are based on one season; therefore, further trail may be required for further confirmation. The oil and protein contents of sunflower and mustard were significantly and synergistically improved by the application of both sulphur and boron','Sunflower, zaid, Sulphur, boron, yield and economics','','',''),(3349,'105','Artificial Groundwater Recharge Planning of a Critical Sub-watershed for Kotani Watershed Using Geospatial Techniques','Dileshwari, M.P. Tripathi and Dhiraj Khalkho','41 Artificial Groundwater Recharge Planning of a Critical Sub-watershed for Kotani Watershed Using Geospatial Techniques Dileshwari.pdf','',4,'Present study has to be taken to understand the challenges like improper exploitation of groundwater, improper maintenance of water resources and failure of government schemes for rural areas may lead to groundwater and irrigation. The advantage of GIS and remote sensing of spatial, spectral and manipulation of earth surface and subsurface data cover with a short time having a great groundwater potential for accessing, processing and monitoring the groundwater resources. Artificial recharge can be used to manage groundwater resources in a sustainable manner. The goal of present study is to formulate a methodology to delineate the zones favorable for artificial recharge and to recommend sites where artificial recharge structures can be constructed in critical sub-watershed of Kotani watershed of Chhattisgarh for India. In this study remote sensing and GIS technique have been used. Major parameters influencing groundwater recharge viz. land use/land cover data, slope, drainage density, g','Artificial Recharge, GIS, Groundwater, Remote Sensing','','',''),(3350,'107','Artificial Groundwater Recharge Planning of a Critical Sub-watershed for Kotani Watershed Using Geospatial Techniques','Dileshwari, M.P. Tripathi and Dhiraj Khalkho','41 Artificial Groundwater Recharge Planning of a Critical Sub-watershed for Kotani Watershed Using Geospatial Techniques Dileshwari.pdf','',1,'Present study has to be taken to understand the challenges like improper exploitation of groundwater, improper maintenance of water resources and failure of government schemes for rural areas may lead to groundwater and irrigation. The advantage of GIS and remote sensing of spatial, spectral and manipulation of earth surface and subsurface data cover with a short time having a great groundwater potential for accessing, processing and monitoring the groundwater resources. Artificial recharge can be used to manage groundwater resources in a sustainable manner. The goal of present study is to formulate a methodology to delineate the zones favorable for artificial recharge and to recommend sites where artificial recharge structures can be constructed in critical sub-watershed of Kotani watershed of Chhattisgarh for India. In this study remote sensing and GIS technique have been used. Major parameters influencing groundwater recharge viz. land use/land cover data, slope, drainage density, g','Artificial Recharge, GIS, Groundwater, Remote Sensing','','',''),(3351,'107','Performance of Different Onion (Allium cepa L.) Genotypes in Rabi Season under Short Day Conditions of West Bengal','Bandari Naresh, Umesh Thapa, Partha Choudhuri, Prankrishna Thakur and Anurup Majumder','42 Performance of Different Onion _Allium cepa L._ Genotypes in Rabi Season under Short Day Conditions of West Bengal Bandari Naresh.pdf','',1,'Onion is a dominating vegetable in terms of overall production and exports among the vegetables, India has one of the lowest productivity rates when compared to the rest of the globe. To overcome this issue, extensive research is required to fill this gap. A field experiment was carried out at C\' block farm Kalyani, Bidhan Chandra Krishi Viswavidyalaya, Mohanpur, Nadia, West Bengal, to evaluate the performance of different onion genotypes under short day conditions during Rabi, 2020-21, in order to identify the best genotype (s) of onion for Rabi season in terms of growth and yield. The comprised of twenty seven genotypes replicated thrice in complete randomized block design with 2m Ã— 2m plot size. Respective genotypes shown significantly better vegetative growth parameters viz plant height RVC20-22 (78.30cm), number of leaves plant-1 RVC20-22 (9.60) and neck thickness RVB20-10 (7.97mm) observed in among all the genotypes. Significant variation find for most of the bulb yield attribut','Onion, Bulb diameter, Genotype evaluation, Yield','','',''),(3352,'107','A Study on Technology Dissemination, Farmerâ€™s Perceptions Towards Pesticides and Impact of KVK in the District of Salem in Turmeric Cultivation','Sudha A., Geetha P., Kohila P., Vijayakumar M. and Senthilkumar M.','43 A Study on Technology Dissemination, Farmerâ€™s Perceptions Towards Pesticides and Impact of KVK in the District of Salem in Turmeric Cultivation Sudha.pdf','',1,'Several hazardous chemicals have been banned from use in crop fields and farmers as well as scientists are in search of alternatives which are less harmful to humans and the environment. Reports from the Pesticides Residue Laboratory indicate residues higher than the permissible levels in most of the vegetables available in the markets. In 2009 the area under turmeric cultivation was 169071 tonnes and in 2015 it was declined due to biotic and abiotic stresses. Krishi Vigyan Kendra, Salem came out with some novel organic technologies for production of spices as well as other crops. In this study, the aims is to improve the farmers livelihood, through trainings, demonstrations etc., and imposing the newer technologies like biocontrol agents based on the survey among the turmeric growers. The technologies were demonstrated and laid out in the farmers field of turmeric growers and the analysis for the adoption level and impact of novel technologies having bioagents in management of turmeri','Biological control, kvk, perception, pesticides, technology, turmeric.','','',''),(3353,'107','Genomics-led Insight into Potyvirus Family, Prevalence and Management','Himangana Das, Oliva Saha, Nasrin Rahman, Munmi Phukon and Ratna Kalita','44 Genomics-led Insight into Potyvirus Family, Prevalence and Management Ratna Kalita.pdf','',1,'Potyvirus is the largest genera with more than 200 viral species in Potyviridae family. Potyvirus is a major aphid-transmitted pathogen of potato and other solanaceous crops. Potyvirus infection causes severe yield loss in many crops. Potato virus Y (PVY) Potyvirus is the most studied virus that affects potato cultivation worldwide. PVY has infected around 495 plant species of 72 genera in 31 families. PVY is an RNA virus which mutate in higher rate. The complexity of the PVY strains is differentiated by their reactions against resistant genes and genome organization in potato. Mutation, recombination, migration, natural selection and genetic drift give birth to a pool of viruses which then are adapted to new niches. Aphid control and introduction of resistant cultivars is an eco-friendly way of maintaining the viral diseases. An insight into PVY genetic structure, variability and evolutionary changes will help to strategize PVY control. This article discusses Potyvirus genetic complex','Potyvirus family, Potyviral genome, Potato virus Y, Aphids, Polyprotein','','',''),(3354,'107','Integrated Effect of Planting Geometry and Growth Retardants on Yield and Economics of Pigeonpea under Rainfed','Sangramsing Punamsing Bainade, Wasudeo N. Narkhede, Neha Prakash Navnage and Sharad S. Jadhav','45 Integrated Effect of Planting Geometry and Growth Retardants on Yield and Economics of Pigeonpea under Rainfed Bainade.pdf','',1,'The goal of research was to found the â€œintegrated effect of planting geometry and growth retardants on yield and economics of pigeonpea under rainfedâ€ during kharif season 2019-20 and 2020-21. A field trial was conducted at experimental farm of Department of Agronomy VNMKV, Parbhani. Planting geometry and growth retardants are important factor for improving yield and economics. In this study, the main plot consisted four planting geometry P1- 60 cm Ã— 20 cm, P2- 90 cm Ã— 20 cm P3- 90 cm Ã— 30cm (P4- 120 cm Ã— 20 cm and in sub plot consisted four growth retardant application (30 and 60 DAS) viz. G1- Control, G2- CCC @ 60 ppm, G3-Paclobutrazol @ 100 ppm, G4-Paclobutrazol @ 125 ppm. The experiment was conducted into split plot design with sixteen treatment combination. The result revealed that, significantly higher seed yield (kg ha-1) was recorded with plating geometry 120 cm Ã— 20 cm. Among all treatments, foliar application of Paclobutrazol @ 125 ppm was recorded higher seed yi','Chlormequate Chloride, growth retardants, Paclobutrazol, pigeonpea, planting geometry','','',''),(3355,'107','Growth and Nutrient Uptake of Indian Mustard as Influenced by Residual Effect of Green Leaf Manuring and Nitrogen Fertilization','Ashvin Kumar Meena, R.N. Meena, R.K. Singh, V.K. Srivastava and Kartikeya Choudhary','46 Growth and Nutrient Uptake of Indian Mustard as Influenced by Residual Effect of Green Leaf Manuring and Nitrogen Fertilization Ashvin Kumar Meena.pdf','',1,'We studied the growth, biological yield and nutrient uptake of Indian mustard under residual effect of different green leaf manuring and nitrogen levels applied to preceding rice crop. The results indicated that residual effect of Gliricidia sepium green leaf manuring @ 10 t ha-1 resulted in significantly higher growth characters at 60 days after sowing, biological yield and nutrient uptake at harvest. However, it was found statistically at par with Leucaena leucocephala and Sesbania aculeata regarding growth and biological yield while, with Leucaena leucocephala for nutrients uptake. Among N levels, the residual fertility of 100% RDN fetched significantly higher growth, biological yield and nutrients uptake by succeeding mustard crop. It was remained statistically at par with lower N levels i.e. 75 and 50% RDN in terms of growth and biological yield. Green leaf manuring maintained gradually high N mineralization rates throughout the rice-mustard sequence and it is the best alternative','Green leaf manuring, growth, mustard, nutrient uptake and residual effect','','',''),(3356,'107','Performance of Growth and Yield Attributing Characters of Sweet Corn (Zea mays L.) in Relation to Three Planting Geometries and Levels of Phosphorus Grown in Uttar Pradesh','Vontari Manideepthi, Rajesh Singh and Ekta Singh','47 Performance of Growth and Yield Attributing Characters of Sweet Corn Zea mays L.pdf','',1,'During zaid season, a field investigation study was conducted at crop research farm, Sam Higginbottom University of Agriculture, Technology and Sciences to find out the effect of growth and yield attributing characters of sweet corn (Zea mays L.) in relation to three planting geometries and levels of phosphorus grown in Uttar Pradesh. A Randomized Block Design was followed with nine treatment combinations and three replications based on the factors of planting geometry (60 cm Ã— 15 cm, 60 cm Ã— 20 cm and 60 cm Ã— 25 cm) and phosphorus levels (P at 45, 60 and 75 kg/ha). Growth characters such as plant height (173.67 cm), number of leaves (9.33/plant), dry weight (115.32 g/plant) was noticed maximum in 60 cm Ã— 25 cm + P at 75 kg/ha but CGR (50.83 g/m2/day) was recorded in 60 cm Ã— 15 cm + P at 75 kg/ha and RGR (0.0457 g/g/day) in 60 cm Ã— 15 cm + P at 45 kg/ha. Yield attributes such as cobs (1.33/plant), grain rows (16.33/cob), grains (28.13/row), cob length (20.63 cm) and seed index (2','Growth attributes, planting geometry, Phosphorus, Yield attributes','','',''),(3357,'99','Combating Covid-19 and Related Psychological Disorders through Unani System of Medicine: A Review','Safia Husain, S. Javed Ali* and Azizur Rahman','37 Combating Covid-19 and Related Psychological Disorders through Unani System of Medicine A Review Safia Husain.pdf','',1,'COVID- 19 or novel coronavirus is a deadly disease known to cause major respiratory-related issues and death in many sufferers. Physical distancing, sanitizing hands and use of triple-layer masks are effective preventive measures observed across the globe, but due to home confinement most individuals suffer from stress, anxiety, and fear; further stress of losing near and dear ones, fear of disease transmission, closure of business or losing jobs has led to devastating consequences. It means several psychological related conditions are prevailing in the general population. Recent reports had also raised the issue and measures to combat psychological diseases are a major concern nowadays. Unani medicine is a time-tested traditional system of medicine practiced in most parts of words with principles of treating disease through natural drugs and regimens. In the current scenario of psychological related conditions, Unani medicine may prove handy through its nature-based care. In the Unani','Covid-19; Unani medicine; psychological; prevention.','','',''),(3359,'105','Influence of Bioagents Population under Different Weather Parameters in Rice Field Ecosystem of Eastern Uttar Pradesh Conditions','Gyan Prakash Morya and Rajnish Kumar','140 Influence of Bioagents Population under Different Weather Parameters in Rice Field Ecosystem of Eastern Uttar Pradesh Conditions Gyan Prakash Morya.pdf','',1,'An intensive study was undertaken to investigate the influence of bioagents population under different weather parameters in rice field ecosystem of Eastern Uttar Pradesh conditions for two consecutive years, 2014 and 2015. The population of bioagents were observed under particular weather parameters, i.e., temperature maximum, temperature minimum, relative humidity, and rainfall in different growth stages of rice. The influence of weather parameters on population of bioagents were inferenced by correlation coefficient. Of the total observed population of most bioagent groups in all growth stages of rice under temperature maximum, temperature minimum, relative humidity, and rainfall, the correlation coefficients were - 0.602, - 0.581, - 0.490, and 0.768 for predators; - 0.459, - 0.436, - 0.337, and 0.649 for parasitoids respectively. The abundance of most bioagent groups, both predators and parasitoids were inferenced negative correlation with particular weather parameters, except rain','Bioagents population, Weather parameters, Rice field ecosystem, Influence, Eastern Uttar Pradesh, India.','Both most bioagent groups (predators and parasitoids) and major bioagent species were highly decreased with increasing temperature maximum, temperature minimum, and relative humidity and decreasing rainfall in seedling stage, and highly increased with moderately decreasing temperature maximum, temperature minimum, and relative humidity and increasing rainfall in transplanting stage, while moderately decreased with decreasing temperature maximum, temperature minimum, and relative humidity and increasing rainfall in flowering stage respectively.','-','Morya, G.P. and Kumar, R. (2021). Influence of Bioagents Population under Different Weather Parameters in Rice Field Ecosystem of Eastern Uttar Pradesh Conditions. Biological Forum â€“ An International Journal, 13(3a): 797-801.'),(3361,'105','Morphological and Molecular Evaluation of Medium Slender (MS) Rice Genotypes for Leaf Blast Disease Resistance','Vishal Reddy, K. Mahantashivayogayya*, D. Pramesh, J.R. Diwan and B.V. Tembhurne','141 Morphological and Molecular Evaluation of Medium Slender MS Rice Genotypes for Leaf Blast Disease Resistance Vishal Reddy.pdf','',1,'Over half of the world\'s population consumes rice as a staple food. Magnaporthe oryzae causes rice blast, which is one among the foremost destructive disease causing enormous yield losses to rice in several rice growing regions. Blast resistance is highly unreliable, with resistance frequently failing or weakening in field conditions, prompting a constant search for resistant donors/lines. The current research was carried out at Agricultural Research Station (ARS) Gangavati, to identify resistance among 22 medium slender rice genotypes alongside susceptible check HR-12 in uniform blast nursery (UBN). The disease reactions were recorded one week after inoculation, with Standard Evaluation Scale (SES) for leaf blast ranging 0-9, when the susceptible check (HR 12) was completely killed. None of the MS varieties shown resistant but three MS varieties viz. IET-26241, IET-25520 and Rp Bio-226 were shown moderately resistant reaction against blast. The five major blast resistant genes genetic',' Rice, Blast, Magnaporthe oryzae, MS, Genetic Frequency.','In the current investigation a total of 22 varieties were tested along with susceptible check (HR 12) by artificial inoculation in uniform blast nursery (UBN) for blast disease resistance, results revealed that IET-26241, IET-25520 and Rp-Bio 226 were found to be moderately resistant and molecular identification of blast resistant genes in promising genotypes divulge that out of 5 primers, Rp-Bio 226 gave positive bands with all the primers. GNV 10-89, IET-25520 and IET-26241 gave positive bands for Pi2-i, Pi9-i, RM 72 and RM 212 primers. IET-27438 gave positive bands for Zt56591 and Pi2-i primers. GGV-05-01 gave positive bands for Pi2-i and Pi9-i. and BPT-5204 gave positive bands for RM212 primer.','-','Reddy V., Mahantashivayogayya, K., Pramesh , D., Diwan, J.R. and Tembhurne , B.V. (2021). Morphological and Molecular Evaluation of Medium Slender (MS) Rice Genotypes for Leaf Blast Disease Resistance. Biological Forum â€“ An International Journal, 13(3a'),(3362,'105','Growth and Yield Components of Maize (Zea mays L.) as influenced by Pink Pigmented Methylotrophic Bacteria in Integrated Nutrient Management','Rudra Vedavani*, Dinesh Kumar M., Nandish M.S., Veeranna, H.K. and Salimath, S.B.','142 Growth and Yield Components of Maize Zea mays L. as influenced by Pink Pigmented Methylotrophic Bacteria in Integrated Nutrient Management Rudra Vedavanij.pdf','',1,'Maize is exhaustive crop and hence requires integrated approach for nutrient management. To address the same, Pink pigmented methylotrophic bacterial (PPMB) culture was applied as solid and liquid formulations (Basal and split) along with 100 % and 75 % RDF in maize. A field experiment was conducted during the summer season of 2021 at Shivamogga. The experiment was laid out in a randomized complete block design having twelve treatments with three replications. Among the treatments tested, application of 100% RDF + PPMB (Basal application of either solid/liquid formulations or split application of liquid formulation) recorded significantly higher plant height (206- 208 cm), leaf area (6100-6600 cm2), dry matter (284- 297 g plant-1), cob length (14- 15 cm), number of grains cob-1 (516- 543). By virtue of above parameters, said treatments recorded maximum grain (6167 to 6235 kg ha-1), straw (8209- 8410 kg ha-1) yield. ','PPMB, Solid, Liquid, Basal, Split, Maize, RDF.','As a part of integrated nutrient management, it was found that use of PPMB (Basal or Split application of liquid formulations and Basal application of liquid formulations) along with 100 per cent RDF recorded higher plant height, leaf area, dry matter, yield parameters and grain yield. ','-','Vedavani, R., Kumar D. M., Nandish M.S., Veeranna, H.K. and Salimath, S.B. (2021). Growth and Yield Components of Maize (Zea mays L.) as influenced by Pink Pigmented Methylotrophic Bacteria in Integrated Nutrient Management. Biological Forum â€“ An Intern'),(3363,'105','Development of a Scale to Measure the Attitude of Farmers Towards Kangayam Cattle Rearing','N.V. Kavithaa*, C. Manivannan, N. Vimal Rajkumar, P. Kumarasamy and S. Manokaran','143 Development of a Scale to Measure the Attitude of Farmers Towards Kangayam Cattle Rearing N.V. Kavithaa.pdf','',1,'Attitudes are constructs which are crucial in enhancing our understanding of the motives behind decisions of people as well as the reasons behind the way in which they behave. Attitude towards conservation was more easily defined theoretically than observed in reality because it included a wide variety of dimensions such as the evaluations people hold of themselves either as careful custodians or rightful owners of their natural resources; or to other people or officials involved in conservation; and issues such as resource use, conservation projects and environmental problems. Hence the present study was undertaken to construct a scale to measure the attitude of farmers towards Kangayam cattle rearing. In the present study, attitude was conceptualized as positive or negative feeling of farmers towards Kangayam cattle rearing and an important determinant of the respondentâ€™s behavior in conserving the Kangayam cattle. A scale to measure the attitude of respondents towards Kangayam cat',' Attitude, conservation and Kangayam cattle rearing.','The scale developed would facilitate measurement of attitude of farmers towards Kangayam cattle rearing. The present study will help the researchers in designing extension strategies and programmes that are realistic and effective.','-','Kavithaa, N.V., Manivannan, C., Vimal Rajkumar, N., Kumarasamy, P. and Manokaran, S. (2021). Development of a Scale to Measure the Attitude of Farmers Towards Kangayam Cattle Rearing. Biological Forum â€“ An International Journal, 13(3a): 812-816.'),(3364,'107','Estimates of Genetic and Phenotypic Parameters for Milk Yield and Milk Composition Traits in Karan-Fries Cattle\r\n\r\n','Aakanksha Rathore, Ramesh Kumar Singh* and Avtar Singh','48 Estimates of Genetic and Phenotypic Parameters for Milk Yield and Milk Composition Traits in Karan-Fries Cattle Ramesh Kumar Singh.pdf','',1,'The records of 1481 Karan-Fries cows on first lactation data of production, progenies of 82 sires and the records of 934 Karan-Fries cows on milk composition traits, progenies of 64 sires were utilized to estimate the heritability, genetic and phenotypic correlations among these traits. The genetic and phenotypic parameters of milk yield along with milk composition traits is required to plan the profitable dairying. The data for milk yield and milk composition traits was gathered from records of various registers for each animal under study. The heritabilities for FL305MY, PY305MY, 180DMY, fat yield, fat (%), SNF yield and SNF (%) traits were 0.346 Â± 0.10, 0.271 Â± 0.09, 0.343 Â± 0.10, 0.636 Â± 0.15, 0.181 Â± 0.11, 0.485 Â± 0.14 and 0.360 Â± 0.13, respectively. The moderate to high heritability estimates of milk yield and milk composition traits indicated ample scope of their genetic improvement through selection and breeding. The phenotypic (rp) and genetic (rg) correlations among FL','Parameters, Milk yield, Milk Composition, Karan-Fries cattle.','','',''),(3365,'107','Pathogenic Variability of Cercospora Leaf Spot Disease of mungbean caused by Cercospora canescens in Surveyed areas of Rajasthan','Naresh Kumar*, M. Singh, S. Prajapati, L. Lakhran, S. Maurya and S. Kumar','49 Pathogenic Variability of Cercospora Leaf Spot Disease of mungbean caused by Cercospora canescens in Surveyed areas of Rajasthan NARESH KUMAR.pdf','',1,'The disease intensity of Cercospora leaf spot of mungbean was recorded from 29.38 to 51.20 per cent in all surveyed areas of Rajasthan. The highest disease intensity was recorded from Nagaur (50.33) and least from Tonk (32.07%). Cercospora canescens were isolated from infected plant leaves of mungbean. In variability studies, significant morphological, cultural and pathogenic variability were observed among ten isolates of Cercospora canescens collected from Nagaur, Jaipur, Sikar, Ajmer and Tonk. CerNg1 and CerNg2 showed maximum colony diameter (90.00 and 87.00 mm) followed by isolate CerJp1 (70.00 mm). Isolate CerNg1 showed greyish whitish colony colour with convex fluffy growth and greyish smooth margin with dense centre. The minimum colony growth was observed in isolate CerTk 2 (41.00 mm). The colony growth of among ten isolates varies from 41.00 to 90.00 mm with light greyish white to dull brownish colony colour. The CerNg1 isolate showed maximum length and width of conidia 30-300 ','Cercospora leaf spot of mungbean, Pathogenic variability','','',''),(3366,'107','Sugarcane Clones Suitable for Moisture Stress/Drought Conditions under Early Planting (December/January)','Mukunda Rao Ch*, Rao P.S., Charumathi M., Bharathalakshmi M. and Jamuna P.','50 Sugarcane Clones Suitable for Moisture StressDrought Conditions under Early Planting _DecemberJanuary_ Mukunda Rao Ch.pdf','',1,'Fifteen pre release sugarcane clones were tested against sugarcane variety Co 6907 for their suitability to early planted conditions (December/January planting) under moisture stress/drought at Regional Agricultural Research Station, Anakapalle during 2018-19 and 2019-20. Sugarcane clones tolerance to moisture stress is need of the hour as sugarcane yields are drastically reducing due to moisture stress/drought. A field experiments were conducted with stress and non stress treatments for evaluation of sugarcane clones tolerance to soil moisture stress/drought. Among fifteen pre release clones tested sugarcane clones 2009A 107 (80.2 t/ha), 2006A 223 (79.50 t/ha), 2009A 252 (76.42 t/ha), 2011A 313 (72.64 t/ha) and 2011A 252 (71.48 t/ha) recorded higher cane yield over other clones tested. The standards 87A 298 and 83V 15 recorded a cane yield of 71.08 t/ha and 58.13 t/ha which are lower than the superior clones. These clones also recorded significantly low SLA which indicates more photo','Moisture stress/drought/limited irrigations, SPAD/SCMR, leaf proline, cane yield, per cent juice sucrose, root spread area, Number of millable canes and Fibre per cent. ','','',''),(3367,'107','Population Dynamics of Sucking Pests of Soybean and their Natural Enemies in Relation to Weather Parameters\r\n\r\n','Bala Muralidhar Naik R.*, Vijaya Lakshmi K., Venkataiah M., Srinivas. C.,\r\n Uma Devi G. and Radhakrishna K.V.','51 Population Dynamics of Sucking Pests of Soybean and their Natural Enemies in Relation to Weather Parameters Bala Muralidhar Naik R.pdf','',1,'Field experiments were carried out at research farm, Polasa, Regional Agricultural Research Station, Jagital during 2014-15 and 2015-16 on soybean variety JS-335. During the course of study at various growth stages four sucking pests namely, whitefly (Bemisia tabaci Gennadius), jassid (Empoasca kerri Pruthi), aphids (Aphis craccivora Koch) and thrips (Thrips tabaci Lindeman) and one natural enemy, namely, lady bird beetle (Cheilomenes sexmaculata) were observed to prey on these sucking pests. The peak activity of sucking pests that is, B. tabaci (5.43 whiteflies/3 leaves) was noticed during 34th std week during 2014 and for the year 2015 6.05/3 leaves during 35th std week and E. kerri (2.5 jassids /3 leaves) during 36th std week for the year 2014 and for the year 2015 was recorded (2.6jassid/3 leaves) during 34th std respectively. Thrips (1.8 thrips/3 leaves) during 34th std week for the year 2014 and for the year 2015 was recorded (2.9/3 leaves) during 33rd std respectively. Aphid','Soybean, sucking insect pests, population dynamics, weather parameters, correlation and multiple linear regressions.','','',''),(3368,'107','Estimation of Genetic Parameters of First Lactation 305 Days or Less Milk Yield, Milk Composition and Reproduction Traits using Sire and Animal Models in Karan Fries Cattle\r\n\r\n','Aakanksha Rathore, Ramesh Kumar Singh* and Avtar Singh','52 Estimation of Genetic Parameters of First Lactation 305 Days or Less Milk Yield, Milk Composition and Ramesh Kumar Singh.pdf','',1,'The records of 1481 Karan-Fries cows on first lactation 305 days or less milk yield and reproduction (AFC and FSP) traits, progenies of 82 sires spread over a period of 26 years from 1984 to 2009 and the records of 934 Karan-Fries cows on milk composition traits (Fat% and SNF%), progenies of 64 sires from 1990 to 2009 (20 years) were utilized to compare between single trait sire model (ST-SM) and single trait animal model (ST-AM). Variance components and genetic parameters for different traits were estimated by single trait sire model (ST-SM) and single trait animal model (ST-AM), applying average information algorithm (AI-REML) using the WOMBAT software. The averages of FL305MY, fat yield, fat (%), SNF yield, SNF (%), AFC and FSP were 3189 Â± 22 Kg, 130.81 Â± 1.29 Kg, 4.16 Â± 0.01%, 273.28 Â± 2.54 Kg, 8.72 Â± 0.01%, 984 Â± 4 days and 141 Â± 3 days, respectively. The obtained CV% of different traits was moderate to high in magnitude and revealed high variation in traits for better diff','Genetic parameters, milk yield, Sire model, Animal model, Karan Fries cattle.','The records of 1481 Karan-Fries cows on first lactation 305 days or less milk yield and reproduction (AFC and FSP) traits, progenies of 82 sires spread over a period of 26 years from 1984 to 2009 and the records of 934 Karan-Fries cows on milk composition traits (Fat% and SNF%), progenies of 64 sires from 1990 to 2009 (20 years) were utilized to compare between single trait sire model (ST-SM) and single trait animal model (ST-AM). Variance components and genetic parameters for different traits were estimated by single trait sire model (ST-SM) and single trait animal model (ST-AM), applying average information algorithm (AI-REML) using the WOMBAT software. The averages of FL305MY, fat yield, fat (%), SNF yield, SNF (%), AFC and FSP were 3189 Â± 22 Kg, 130.81 Â± 1.29 Kg, 4.16 Â± 0.01%, 273.28 Â± 2.54 Kg, 8.72 Â± 0.01%, 984 Â± 4 days and 141 Â± 3 days, respectively. The obtained CV% of different traits was moderate to high in magnitude and revealed high variation in traits for better diff','INTRODUCTION\r\nThe primary aim in dairy cattle selection is to produce more efficient and economically viable animals within short span of time. The estimates of genetic parameters are helpful in determining the method of selection to predict direct and correlated response to selection, choosing a breeding system to be adopted for future improvement as well as in the estimation of genetic response. In general, more efficient and economic viable dairy cattle come in milk in early age and produce large quantities of milk in routinely initiated lactations with remaining functionally sound. Selection on milk yield traits alone result in deterioration of genetic production potential of milk composition and reproduction traits. Genetic response in selected traits results not only from use of sires having high genetic merit but also from use of mates having high genetic merit. Thus, animal model has replaced other methods of evaluation in dairy cattle. Because animal model predict breeding values of both sires and dams simultaneously utilizing all relationships between animals with or without records. Animal model is considered superior to sire model in the estimation of variances and other genetic parameters (Hudson and Schaeffer, 1984). The genetic parameters required for best linear unbiased prediction (BLUP) of breeding values using sire and animal models are usually estimated using residual maximum likelihood (REML; Patterson and Thompson, 1971) with the same model as used to estimate breeding values. Sire model analyses take account of relationship between sires only ignore the relationship of sire mates and between the mates. Further, sire model assume that mates of sires are non-related, non-inbred, non-selected and that each dam has one recorded progeny only. If selection intensity for males were greater than for females, the male genetic variance would be smaller subsequently, sire model might underestimate genetic variability and thus lead to poor estimates of genetic parameters. Genetic parameters estimates of animal model were often higher than the corresponding estimates of sire model for different traits (Dong and Van Vleck, 1988.) The précise and accurate estimates of genetic parameters were required to form selection indices besides the breeding values prediction. The objective of this study was to estimate the variance components and heritability of first lactation 305 days or less milk yield (FL305MY), milk composition viz. fat yield and SNF yield and reproduction traits viz. AFC and FSP traits and genetic and phenotypic correlations of first lactation 305 days or less milk yield (FL305MY) with fat yield, SNF yield, AFC and FSP traits of Karan Fries cattle using single trait sire model (ST-SM) and single trait animal model (ST-AM) and to test the superiority of animal model over sire model. \r\nMATERIALS AND METHODS\r\nThe records of 1481 Karan-Fries cows on first lactation 305 days or less milk yield and reproduction (AFC and FSP) traits, progenies of 82 sires spread over a period of 26 years from 1984 to 2009 and the records of 934 Karan-Fries cows on milk composition traits (Fat% and SNF%), progenies of 64 sires from 1990 to 2009 (20 years) were collected from the history-cum pedigree sheet, daily milk yield registers and milk composition registers maintained at National Dairy Research Institute (NDRI), Karnal. The first lactational percent of fat and SNF was generated by averaging monthly test day milk composition records over 10 months of first lactation. The first lactational yield of Fat and SNF was estimated as lactational yield by averaging monthly yield of Fat and SNF over 10 months of first lactation. The monthly yield of fat and SNF were estimated using following formula given formula\r\n \r\nwhere M_i is the monthly milk yield of i^th month (i = 1-10 for 305-day milk yield) and X_i is the fat or SNF percentage of the i^th month (i = 1-10 for 305-day milk yield). Age at first calving (AFC) trait of reproduction trait group was calculated as the difference between date of birth and date of first calving. First service period (FSP) of reproduction trait group was estimated as the difference between date of first calving and date of next successful service. Culling in the middle of lactation, abortion, still-birth or any other pathological causes which affected the lactation yield were considered as abnormalities and thus, such records were not taken for the study. The records of progenies of only those sires were included in present study which had minimum five or more progenies in data records. The outliers beyond two-standard deviation on both the tail ends of normal distribution were excluded from the data. The cows that had produced milk for at least 100 days and maximum 305 days in the first lactation were considered for the study. A total of 15% records were discarded on account of these restrictions. The cows were maintained under uniform condition of feeding, housing, breeding milking, health cover and other managemental condition. The same data of traits was used to estimate genetic parameters from both sire model and animal model using WOMBAT (Meyer, 2007). \r\nModels. The following two single trait linear models were used to estimate the genetic parameters of FL305MY, milk composition and reproduction traits.\r\nSire Model (SM): Y=Xb+Z_1 u_S+e\r\nAnimal Model (AM): Y=Xb+Z_2 u+e\r\nWhere Y was the vector of observations of a particular considered trait; b was the vector of fixed effects, including season of calving, period of calving and age groups for all traits except AFC; For AFC, season of birth and period of birth was considered as the vector of fixed effects; u_S was the vector of sire genetic effects; u was the vector of animal additive genetic effects and the X, Z_1 and Z_2 were incidence matrices pertaining to b, u_S and u. The distributions for the random effects were assumed as follows:\r\na∼N(0,A_s σ_s^2 ),e ~ N(0,I〖 σ〗_(e_s)^2 )\r\na∼N(0,A σ_a^2 ), e ~ N(0,I〖 σ〗_e^2 ) \r\nwhere, A_s and A were the matrices of the genetic relationship between individuals in the pedigree for sires and animals, respectively; σ_s^2 and σ_a^2 were sire genetic variance and animal additive genetic variance, respectively; and 〖 σ〗_(e_s)^2 and 〖 σ〗_e^2 were residual variances for SM and AM, respectively. Variance components and genetic parameters for different traits were estimated by single trait sire model (ST-SM) and single trait animal model (ST-AM), applying average information algorithm (AI-REML) using the WOMBAT software (Meyer, 2007). \r\nRESULTS AND DISCUSSION\r\nThe simple arithmetic averages of various economic traits viz. first lactation 305 days or less milk yield (FL305MY), fat percent, milk fat yield, Solids-not-fat (SNF) percent, Solids-not-fat (SNF) yield, age at first calving (AFC) and first service period (FSP) along with standard error (S.E.) and coefficient of variation (C.V.) are presented in Table 1.\r\nAverages of various traits. FL305MY: The simple mean for first lactation 305-day or less milk yield (FL305MY) was 3189 ± 22 Kg (Table 1) which was in close to the reports of Singh, (2006); Kokate, (2009); Rashia, (2010); Divya, (2012); Tripathy et al. (2017) in Karan Fries cattle.\r\nThe coefficient of variation (CV) of FL305MY was estimated as 20.13% (Table 1). Kokate (2009), Rashia (2010); Manju, (2011); Divya, (2012); Tripathy et al. (2017) also reported the average 305-day milk yield was 3068 ± 22 Kg, 3076 Kg, 3243.59 ± 47.33 Kg, 3110 ± 25 Kg and 3121 ± 26.8 Kg with coefficient of variation 24.98%, 24.4%, 25%. 24.43% and 31.05% respectively for first lactation in Karan Fries cattle. Singh, (2006) also observed that, the average 305-day milk yield was 3197 ± 43 Kg with coefficient of variation 24.98% for first lactation in Karan Fries. The reasonably high estimate of CV for FL305MY trait indicated that FL305MY can be used for evaluation of genetic merit of animals as it may provide an opportunity for better differentiation among animals. \r\nFat content: The simple mean for fat yield and fat percent in the present study were 130.81 ± 1.29 Kg and 4.16 ± 0.01% (Table 1), respectively. The higher estimate of mean for fat yield and fat percent of Karan-Fries was reported by 446.74 ± 3.62 Kg and 4.2 ± 0.01% respectively by Tripathy et al. (2017). However, higher estimate of milk fat yield was reported as 192.8 Kg by Boujenane, (2002) in Moroccan Holstein-Friesian; 203.58 Kg by Yaeghoobi et al., (2009) in Iranian Holstein-Friesian cattle; 361.95 Kg by Pantelic et al. (2012) in Holstein-Friesian cattle and 198.79 Kg by Toghiani, (2012) in Iranian Holstein-Friesian and lower estimate of milk fat yield was reported 60 Kg by Freitas et al. (1995) in ½ Holstein-Friesian × Gir cross bred cattle. However, slightly higher estimate of milk fat percent was reported 4.58 ± 0.04% and 4.5 ± 0.08% by Haile et al., (2008) in Holstein-Friesian × Boran crossbred cattle and Barbosa et al. (2008) in ½ Holstein-Friesian × Gir cross bred cattle, respectively and slightly lower estimate of milk fat percent was reported 3.55% by Freitas et al., (1995) in ½ Holstein-Friesian × Gir crossbred cattle; 3.63% by Boujenane, (2002) in Moroccan HF; 3.53% by Pantelic et al. (2012) in Holstein-Friesian cattle and 3.07% by Toghiani, (2012) in Iranian HF.\r\nThe coefficients of variation (CV) of milk composition traits viz. fat yield and fat%, were estimated as 23.96% and 5.23% (Table 1), respectively. However, higher estimates of coefficient of variation (CV) of milk fat yield and Fat Percent were reported as 29.27% and 8.18% respectively by Tripathy et al. (2017) Karan Fries cattle. The obtained CV estimates of milk fat yield was in close to the estimates 26.5%, 26.24% and 26.5% as reported by Boujenane, (2002) in Moroccan HF, Yaeghoobi et al., in Iranian Holstein-Friesian cattle (2009); Toghiani (2012) in Iranian Holstein-Friesian, respectively. However, slightly higher CV estimates of milk fat yield was reported as 42% by Freitas et al., (1995) in ½ Holstein-Friesian × Gir crossbred cattle and slightly lower CV estimate of milk fat yield was reported 15.68% by Pantelic et al. (2012) in Holstein-Friesian cattle. The obtained CV estimate of milk fat percent was in close to the estimates 7.16% and 5.27% as reported by Boujenane, (2002) in Moroccan Holstein-Friesian and Pantelic et al. (2012) in Holstein-Friesian cattle, respectively. However, higher CV estimate of milk fat percent was reported as 32%, 18.4% and 19.24% by Freitas et al., (1995) in ½ Holstein-Friesian × Gir crossbred cattle, Haile et al., (2008) in Holstein-Friesian × Boran crossbred cattle and Toghiani, (2012) in Iranian Holstein-Friesian, respectively. \r\nThe coefficient of variation (CV) for fat yield revealed that fat yield was moderately variable traits and could be used in combination with milk production traits for better evaluation of dairy animals. The obtained CV for fat% was low in estimates and so may not aid significantly in evaluation and differentiation of animals based on their genetic merit. \r\nSolids-not-fat (SNF) content: The simple mean for SNF yield and SNF percent in the present study were 273.28 ± 2.54 Kg and 8.72 ± 0.01% (Table 1), respectively. Slightly lower estimate (8.35 ± 0.04%) of SNF% was reported by Haile et al., (2008) in Holstein-Friesian × Boran crossbred cattle. The coefficients of variation (CV) of milk composition traits viz. SNF yield and SNF% traits were estimated as 22.16% and 1.99% (Table 1), respectively. However, higher estimate of CV (11.9%) of SNF% was reported by Haile et al. (2008) in Holstein-Friesian × Boran crossbred cattle. The coefficient of variation (CV) for SNF yield revealed that SNF yield were moderately variable traits and could be used in combination with milk production traits for better evaluation of dairy animals. The obtained CV for SNF% was low in estimates and so may not aid significantly in evaluation and differentiation of animals based on their genetic merit. \r\nAFC: The phenotypic mean of AFC was 984 ± 4 days with a coefficient of variation (CV) 12.5% (Table 1). Singh, (1995); Panja (1997); Sivakumar (1998); Sinha (1999); Nehra (2011); Divya (2012) reported close estimates of age at first calving as 978 ± 10 days, 940 ± 18 days, 985 ± 5 days, 985 ± 16 days, 1006 ± 8 days and 984 ± 4 days, respectively in Karan Fries cattle. The CV 12.5% was in agreement with the reports of C.V estimate 15% by Nehra (2011) and 14.62% by Divya (2012). The moderate CV estimate of AFC indicated that AFC trait had potentiality to differentiate animals based on their genetic merit.\r\nFSP: The phenotypic mean of FSP was 143 ± 3 days with a CV 59.6% (Table 1). Similar estimates were reported by Sahana (1996); Saha (2001); Divya, (2012) in Karan Fries cattle as 128 ± 6 days, 128 ±11 days and 130 ± 3 days, respectively. The CV 60% was in close to with the reports of CV estimate 54.25% by Divya (2012). The high CV estimate of FSP indicated that FSP trait had potentiality to differentiate animals based on their genetic merit.\r\n(a) Comparison between heritability estimates of sire and animal models for different traits. The heritability estimates of FL305MY along with variance and covariance components from single-trait sire model (ST-SM) and single-trait animal model (ST-AM) are presented in Table 2. \r\nThe sire component of variance for different traits under single-trait sire model (ST-SM) was lower than the corresponding estimates of different traits under single-trait animal model (ST-AM). It was expected because where selection intensity for sires selection is very high in comparison to no selection pressure or very less selection pressure on the mates (dams) of sires. The residual variance for different traits under single-trait sire model (ST-SM) was considerably higher than the corresponding estimates of different traits under single-trait animal model (ST-AM). It indicated that single-trait animal model (ST-AM) is more accurate method than single-trait sire model (ST-SM). \r\nThe heritabilities of FL305MY, fat yield, SNF yield, AFC and FSP were obtained as 0.053 ± 0.024, 0.050 ± 0.023, 0.111 ± 0.038, 0.108 ± 0.031 and 0.003 ± 0.015, respectively from single trait-sire model (ST-SM). The corresponding heritability estimates of these traits from single-trait animal model were estimated as 0.238 ± 0.087, 0.349 ± 0.091, 0.339 ± 0.094, 0.156 ± 0.058 and 0.010 ± 0.047, respectively. The heritability estimates of traits from single-trait sire model (ST-SM) were considerably lower than corresponding single-trait animal model (ST-AM). The improvement in h2 of FL305MY, PY305MY, 180DMY, fat yield, fat (%), SNF yield, SNF (%), AFC and FSP traits by ST-AM were 349.10%, 349.05%, 316%, 32.75%, 53.55%, 30.76% and 233.33%, respectively compared to the estimate of ST-SM analysis. The lower heritability estimate of traits from single-trait sire model (ST-SM) in comparison to single-trait animal model (ST-AM) was in agreement with the literatures of Sun et al., (2009); Meszaros et al. (2013). Sire model take account of only genetic relationship between of sires only existing in the pedigree of animal population under estimation and ignore genetic relationship existing between the sire and dam and between dams. It also does not account for the selection effects on mates of sires and assume mating is random. The result of sire model is further biased for the animal population of genetic improvement where selection intensity for sires selection is very high in comparison to no selection pressure or very less selection pressure on the mates \r\n(dams) of sires. It result into reduction in sire component of variance and produce lower estimate of heritability. Therefore, heritability of FL305MY from single-trait animal model (ST-AM) appeared better in accuracy then that of sire model. \r\nComparison of phenotypic and genetic correlation estimates of FL305MY with fat yield, SNF yield, AFC and FSP traits between single trait sire and animal models. The results of phenotypic (rp) and genetic (rg) correlations of FL305MY with fat yield, SNF yield, AFC and FSP traits estimated from single-trait sire model and single-trait animal model were presented in Table 3. The results of phenotypic (rp) and genetic (rg) correlations from single-trait sire model were compared with corresponding estimates from single-trait animal model. The estimates of genetic (rg) and phenotypic (rp) correlations of FL305MY with fat yield, SNF yield, AFC and FSP traits from single-trait sire model were observed changed in magnitude than the corresponding estimates of single-trait animal model for different traits. The estimate of genetic (rg) correlation of FL305MY with AFC traits from single-trait sire model was not only changed in magnitude but also in sign from the corresponding estimate of single-trait animal model. The estimates of phenotypic (rp) and genetic (rg) correlations of FL305MY with fat yield, SNF yield, AFC and FSP traits from single-trait animal model were observed improved in their estimates than the corresponding estimates of single-trait sire model for different traits. The estimates of phenotypic (rp) and genetic (rg) correlations of FL305MY with fat yield, SNF yield, AFC and FSP traits from single-trait animal model were observed changed in magnitude than those of single-trait sire model. The phenotypic (rp) and genetic (rg) correlations estimates from single-trait animal model were considered more accurate and unbiased than those of single-trait sire model. Because, animal model take account of all kind of relationship among animals existing in pedigree whereas sire model takes into account of between sires relationships of pedigree only. The difference in magnitude and sign between genetic (rg) and phenotypic (rp) correlation estimates from sire and animal models analysis exerts the need of traits to be included in animal model evaluation of animals.\r\n','Rathore, A.; Singh, R.K. and Singh, A. (2021). Estimation of Genetic Parameters of First Lactation 305 Days or Less Milk Yield, Milk Composition and Reproduction Traits using Sire and Animal Models in Karan Fries Cattle. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 13(4): 306-310.'),(3369,'107','Effect of Boron and Sowing Dates on Growth and Yield of Yellow Mustard (Sinapis alba)\r\n\r\n','Gangadhari Amaraketan*, Rajesh Singh and Rajesh Singh Chauhan','53 Effect of Boron and Sowing Dates on Growth and Yield of Yellow Mustard Sinapis alba Gangadhari Amaraketan.pdf','',1,'A field trial was conducted in Rabi 2020 at Crop Research Farm (CRF), Department of Agronomy, SHUATS, Prayagraj (U.P.). The soil of experimental plot was sandy loam in texture, nearly neutral in soil reaction (pH 7.1), low in organic carbon (0.36%) available Nitrogen (171.48 kg/ha), available Phosphorus (15.2 kg/ha) and available Potassium (232.5 kg/ha). Results that observed that significantly highest plant height (102.5 cm), number of branches (10.3), dry weight (24.90 g), siliquae per plant (143.6), maximum seeds per siliquae (41.4), maximum test weight (3.3 g), seed yield (17.2 q/ha), highest stover yield (58.1 q/ha) were recorded with 2 kg/ha Boron + sowing date October 26. Maximum gross returns (Rs. 103200.00/ha), net returns (Rs. 68241.00 /ha) and benefit: cost ratio (1.95) were obtained highest in the treatment combination of 2 kg/ha Boron + sowing date October 26.','Boron, sowing dates, Sinapis alba, sandy loam in texture','','',''),(3370,'107','Cashew Germplasm Bank for Plain areas of Karnataka\r\n\r\n','Ramachandra R.K.*, Rajendra B.N., Vishnuvardhana, Ashwathanarayana Reddy N., Anjaneya Reddy B., Subramanyam B. and Ramesh M.','54 Cashew Germplasm Bank for Plain areas of Karnataka Ramachandra R.K.pdf','',1,'The cashew germplasm bank located in HREC, Hogalagere, holds 50 accessions and all of them belong to Anacardium occidentale L. Introduction of plants into the germplasm bank started at HREC, Hogalagere from 2012. In recent times, the focus of cashew germplasm bank is to evaluate, document and conserve the plant material for further use to enhance the nut yield characters in cashew crop and to serve as basis for agronomic and morphological characterizations of accessions for the support of breeding programs. The accessions are being evaluated for their morphological, vegetative, flowering and nut yield attributes. The genetic variability contained in the collection is being used to develop hybrids with preferred cashew clones. The genetic basis of cashew has been expanded by natural and artificial hybridization with regular cashew genotypes from the germplasm bank, to increase the nut weight, size, shelling percentage and lustering characters of nut. ','Anacardium occidentale, characterization, evaluation, genetic resources, plain region. ','','',''),(3371,'107','Genetic Variability Parameters for Quantitative Traits in Farmersâ€™ Pea (Pisum sativum var. arvense L.) Varieties\r\n\r\n','Ruchi Bishnoi*, Shailesh Marker, K.V. Yatish Kumar and Shaik Ayesha Taranum','55 Genetic Variability Parameters for Quantitative Traits in Farmersâ€™ Pea Pisum sativum var. arvense L. Varieties Ruchi Bishnoi.pdf','',1,'The experiment was conducted to assess the genetic variability parameters for eleven quantitative traits in 22 farmersâ€™ Pea varieties during rabi 2019-2020 in randomized block design (RBD) with 3 replications. The ANOVA for all the characters showed 1% level of significance. On an average phenotypic and genotypic coefficient of variation were high for plant height, number of pods per plant, number of effective nodes, number of seeds per plant, harvest index, 100-seed weight and yield per plant. This indicated the presence of sufficient variability among the characters. High heritability coupled with high genetic advance as percent of mean, was observed in characters viz., yield/plant, 100-seed weight, number of pods/plant, harvest index, plant height, number of effective nodes, number of seeds/pod and width of pods, which indicated the preponderance of additive gene action. The yield per plant had significant and positive direct association with days to maturity, width of pods and ha','Correlation, Farmersâ€™ varieties, Field-pea (Pisum sativum var. arvense L.), Genetic variability, Path- coefficient analysis.','','',''),(3372,'107','Morpho-physiological Changes in Maize Genotype under Water Stress Condition at Pre and Post Flowering Stages\r\n\r\n','G.K. Mittal, Bhuri Singh*, M. K. Mahatma and A.K. Gupta','56 Morpho-physiological Changes in Maize Genotype under Water Stress Condition at Pre and Post Flowering Stages Bhuri Singh.pdf','',1,'Production of maize is severely affected by water deficit during teaselling and grain filling stage and it has been estimated to cause average annual yield losses about 17% in the world. It is highly sensitive to water stress in the period from one week before to two weeks after flowering, leading to grain abortion. Therefore, the present investigation was carried out to investigate the effect of water stress on morpho-physiological parameters of thirty genotypes of maize grown under control and water stress field conditions. The highly significant differences were observed for all the parameters studied. Anthesis-Silking interval was increased and rest of the parameters were found to be reduced under stress condition. Cob weight per plant and number of grains per cob had a positive significant correlation with grain yield per plant in both the conditions. Performance (Increase/decrease percent) based rank of genotypes for various parameters under study and minimum reduction percent in','Grain yield, maize, morpho-physiological parameters, water stress.','','',''),(3373,'107','Effect of Biofertilizers and Levels and Sources of Sulphur on Growth and Yield of Sunflower (Helianthus annus L.)','Godehalu Sandhya*, Rajesh Singh and Ekta Singh','57 Effect of Biofertilizers and Levels and Sources of Sulphur on Growth and Yield of Sunflower Helianthus annus L. Godehalu Sandhya.pdf','',1,'A trial was executed during Zaid season of 2021, at crop research farm of Department of Agronomy at Sam Higginbottom University of Agriculture, Technology and Sciences, Prayagraj with the objective to study effect of biofertilizers and levels and sources of sulphur on growth, yield and oil content of sunflower (Helianthus annuus L.) under Randomized block design comprising of 9 treatments, with 2 different levels of sulphur from 2 different sources along with 2 different biofertilizers. The treatment T6 has recorded maximum plant height (134.90 cm) at 80 DAS, RGR of 0.24 g/g/day, highest number of seeds in capitulum 375.33, test weight (39.20), grain yield (1495.67 kg/ha), stover yield (3255.33 kg/ha). While highest leaves (23.40) were reported by treatment Tâ‚‡ and oil content (42.26%). Treatment T8 has recorded maximum Crop growth rate (3.43) at 20-40 DAS and Harvest index (35.83). Treatment T5 has recorded maximum dry weight of 13.02g at harvest. Treatment T5 has recorded maximum gr','Sulphur, Biofertilizers, Gypsum, FYM, Growth, Yield, Economics.','','',''),(3374,'107','Population Structure of Phomopsis vexans and its Virulence Status Associated with Brinjal Fruit Rot Disease in Kashmir','Ali Anwar, Mudasir Bhat, M.N. Mughal, Efath Shahnaz* and G.M. Jeelani','58 Population Structure of Phomopsis vexans and its Virulence Status Associated with Brinjal Fruit Rot Disease in Kashmir Efath Shahnaz.pdf','',1,'Phomopsis fruit-rot of brinjal is one of the most important diseases that deteriorate quality and market value of fruits. A number of studies have been conducted regarding the aetiology, epidemiology and management of the fungus but studies regarding variability are few and far between. The present study was an effort to bridge this important gap in the pathogenic nature of the causal organism, Phomopsis vexans. The pathogenicity of the isolated fungus was established by proving Kochâ€™s postulates. The inoculated seedlings produced symptoms of the disease after 7 days of inoculation. The culture of the pathogen produced characteristic disease symptoms after 10 days of inoculation on injured fruits and after 18 days of inoculation on uninjured fruits. Isolates of P. vexans were collected from different locations of three districts viz. Budgam, Ganderbal and Srinagar. Significant variation was revealed in pathogen population on their cultural, morphological and pathogenic behaviour. Cul','Brinjal, fruit-rot, Phomopsis vexans, pathogenicity, variation, isolates.','','',''),(3375,'107','Influence of Micronutrient on Growth, Fruit Yield and Quality of Strawberry (Fragaria Ã— ananassa Duch.) cv. Winter Star under Protected Cultivation\r\n\r\n','Saurav Kumar* and Devi Singh','59 Influence of Micronutrient on Growth, Fruit Yield and Quality of Strawberry _Fragaria Ã— ananassa Duch. cv. Winter Star under Protected Cultivation Sauravkumar.pdf','',1,'The present investigation entitled was carried out during the year 2020-2021 in the Department of Horticulture, Sam Higginbottom University of Agriculture Technology & Sciences Prayagraj in the months of December 2020 to March 2021. The experimental field was brought to fine tilth by ploughing and harrowing by tractor. The experimental site was divided into small plots of 1.8m Ã— 1.2m dimensions with 30 cm bunds between the plots. Between the rows of 60 cm and between the plants of 30 cm spacing was maintained and plants were planted in the evening. The experiment was laid out in RBD design having thirteen treatment and three replications. The result revealed that treatment T12 RDF (100:80:40) + Copper 250ppm + Manganese 200ppm was found to be best in terms of maximum plant height (24.51cm), plant spread (cm) (32.56cm), number of leaves per plant (18.38cm), petiole length (cm) (14.85cm), number of flower per plant (8.63), Number of fruit per plant (9.07), fruit weight (13.86g), fruit',' Growth, fruit yield, quality, Strawberry, (Fragaria Ã— ananassa Duch.), Winter star and micronutrient.','','',''),(3376,'107','Sensor and SMI based Irrigation Management in Maize [Zea mays (L.)] to Enhance Growth, Yield and Water Use Efficiency\r\n\r\n','Chaithra C.*, Hanumanthappa D.C., Mudalagiriyappa, Sujith G.M., Sukanya T.S. and Lathashree A. V.','60 Sensor and SMI based Irrigation Management in Maize [Zea mays L.] to Enhance Growth, Yield and Water Use Efficiency Chaithra, C.pdf','',1,'Maize is popularly referred as the \"Queen of Cerealsâ€ due to its high yielding potential among the cereal crop. The increasing demand along with increments in water and energy costs have made it necessary to develop new technologies for the adequate management of water. With emerging water scarcity, the traditional way of cultivation can no longer be sustained to meet the demands of ever growing populations. Keeping the above facts in view. The field experiment on \"Sensor and SMI based irrigation management in Maize [Zea mays (L.)] to enhance growth, yield and water use efficiencyâ€ \" was conducted during Kharif-2019 at â€˜Lâ€™ Block, ZARS, University of Agricultural Sciences, GKVK, Bangalore 560065. The experiment comprised of seven treatments viz., T1: Surface irrigation, T2: Drip irrigation at three days interval, T3: Green Soil Moisture Indicator (GSMI) based drip irrigation, T4: Yellow soil moisture indicator based drip irrigation (YSMI), T5: Sensor based drip irrigation at 25%','Drip irrigation, Maize, GSMI, Sensor and YSMI.','','',''),(3377,'107','Morphological characterization of White Finger Millet [Eleusine coracana (L.) Gaertn] Genotypes for Qualitative Traits','Basavaraj*, L. N. Yogeesh, G. Y. Lokesh, G. Girish and Umesh Hiremath','61 Morphological characterization of White Finger Millet [Eleusine coracana L. Gaertn] Genotypes for Qualitative Traits Basavaraj.pdf','',1,'White finger millet gaining importance due to its superior colour appearance, consumer acceptability and wider application in bakery industries. Among 55 accessions, most of the entries recorded erect growth (67.27 %), semi compact ears (27.27 %), non-pigmented leaf juncture (50.90 %), non-pubescent leaf sheath (52.72 %) and non-culm stem branching (58.18 %). Most of the accessions exhibited absence of branched fingers (63.63 %) with absence of multiple whorls (58.18 %) among non-branched fingers was for in thumb position (54.54 %). Seeds of majority of accessions exhibited enclosed glume cover (50.90 %), round shape (60 %), smooth surface (61.81 %) and non-persistent pericarp (43.63 %) with non-shattering nature (58.18 %). White finger millet accessions showed wider variation for qualitative characters and selection of genotypes for high yield helps in white finger millet improvement programme.','Characterization; Germplasm; Qualitative traits; White finger millet.','','',''),(3378,'107','Fabrication and Characterization of PVA/Chitosan Composite Nanofiber for Encapsulation of Active Ingredients','M.S. Kumuthan, A. Lakshmanan*, K.G. Sabarinathan, K.S. Subramanian, K. Raja, D. Balachandar and M. Gomathi','62 Fabrication and Characterization of PVAChitosan Composite Nanofiber for Encapsulation of Active Ingredients M.S. Kumuthan.pdf','',1,'Electrospinning is a versatile technique used to produce nanofibers from polymer solution to encapsulate the active ingredients. It is hard to fabricate chitosan nanofiber, because high viscosity of chitosan solution hinders the fabrication process. To overcome this difficulty, poly vinyl alcohol (PVA) was blended with chitosan (CS) to lower the solution viscosity and produce composite nanofiber by electrospinning method. Different concentrations of PVA and CS were tested for optimum nanofiber formation. Fabricated nanofiber was characterized by using FTIR, Scanning electron microscope (SEM), Transmission electron microscope (TEM) and Energy Dispersive X-Ray Analysis (EDAX). The results confirmed that the fine nanofiber formation was perfect without beads from PVA/CS composite at a ratio of 9:1. FTIR analysis of nanofiber confirmed the presence of characteristics peaks of PVA and CS at 2934 cm-1 (C-H stretching) and 1550 cm-1 (N-H bending). SEM and TEM observation showed the smooth sur','Electrospinning, PVA, Chitosan, nanofiber, encapsulation.','','',''),(3379,'107','Mycelial Compatibility Groups Among the Isolates of Sclerotium rolfsii Associated with the Southern Blight Disease of Tomato','Brindhadevi S.*, Thiruvudainambi S., Theradimani M., Kumutha K., Sobanbabu G. and Sujithra P.','63 Mycelial Compatibility Groups Among the Isolates of Sclerotium rolfsii Associated with the Southern Blight Disease of Tomato S.pdf','',1,'Sclerotium rolfsii is a polyphagus soil inhabitant and ubiquitous facultative saprophyte that causes southern blight/Collar rot on a variety of plants in tropical and subtropical areas around the world. This pathogen is known to cause disease in more than 500 crops. Southern blight disease is emerging as a significant impediment to tomato productivity. Studies of mycelial compatability groups within the population in a geographical region are important because these also document the changes occurring in the population. Hence different pathogenic isolates of S. rolfsii were obtained from different regions of Tamil Nadu. In the current study, eight isolates were obtained from diseased tomato crops in various areas of Tamil Nadu, and mycelial interaction was studied among them to determine the pathogen\'s field population. Only 21 of the 46 pairings produced a compatible reaction. The eight isolates had 48.45 per cent vegetative compatibility based on mycelial compatibility grouping.','Mycelial compatibility groups (MCGs), tomato, Southern blight, vegetative compatibility.','','',''),(3380,'107','Management of Rice Weevil, Sitophilus oryzae L. (coleopteran; curculinoidae) by Botanicals and inert Dusts in Stored Wheat','Rehana Akbar*, Magdeshwar Sharma, Devinder Sharma, Summira Rafiq and Raheeba Tun Nisa','64 Management of Rice Weevil, Sitophilus oryzae L. coleopteran; curculinoidae by Botanicals and inert Dusts in Stored Wheat Rehana Akbar.pdf','',1,'Grain storage is important in agriculture for future generations and food security. Insect pests are economically important because they cause major losses and affect the destiny of grains during storage. The expanding demands of the world\'s growing population can be met by lowering or eradicating insect pest populations while storing food. Traditionally, synthetic pesticides have been used to control various insect pests, which are hazardous to the environment and ecosystem in a variety of ways, including the elimination of natural enemies, insect resistance and resurgence, making soil, water, and air sick, and having residual effects that cause various disorders or diseases in animals and humans. These problems have sparked a world-wide interest in developing a biodegradable, non- residual and easily available techniques such as use of botanicals that may prove better option for control of stored grain pests. In the present study, locally available botanicals and inert dusts viz, Aco','Botanicals, Inert dusts, Sitophilus oryzae, wheat seeds.','','',''),(3381,'107','Genetic Variability and Character Association Studies in Turmeric (Curcuma longa L.) Cultures\r\n','K. Vithya*, K. Venkatesan, B. Senthamizh Selvi, S. Manonmani and E. Kokiladevi','65 Genetic Variability and Character Association Studies in Turmeric K. Vithya.pdf','',1,'A study was conducted in 22 turmeric cultures to evaluate the level of variability, associative relationship of yield and its contributing traits along with direct and indirect effects of 15 quantitative traits. All the turmeric cultures (22 nos.) for evaluation purpose were collected from various geographical regions of India to examine the variations among them and to study their performance and suitability for Coimbatore condition. The experiment was laid out in Randomized block design with three replications at the Department of Spices and Plantation Crops, TNAU, Coimbatore. Availability of high yielding varieties of turmeric for particular locality are limited and identification of contributing characters towards yield is needed for the selection of varieties with high yield. Owing to clonal propagation, self-incompatibility and self-sterility, availability of natural genetic variation in turmeric is reported to be narrow. Among the 15 quantitative traits studied, many of the char','Variability, association, heritability, direct effects and yield improvement. ','','',''),(3382,'107','Comparative Biology of Fall Armyworm, Spodoptera frugiperda on Different Host Plants under Laboratory Conditions','P. Kranthi and R. Sunitha Devi','66 Comparative Biology of Fall Armyworm, Spodoptera frugiperda on Different Host Plants under Laboratory Conditions R. Sunitha Devi.pdf','',1,'Fall Armyworm, Spodoptera frugiperda (J. E. Smith) (Lepidoptera, Noctuidae) was recently reported for the first time in India in May, 2018 as a new invasive pest of maize. A detailed record of S. frugiperdaâ€™s host plants is essential to better understand the biology and ecology of this pest, conduct future studies, and develop Integrated Pest Management programmes. Therefore, present study were undertaken to study biology on three different natural host plants viz., maize, sorghum, sugarcane along with artificial diet as control under laboratory conditions during kharif, 2019 at Department of Entomology, College of Agriculture, Rajendranagar, Hyderabad. During the experiment, newly hatched larvae were fed with respective host plants and artificial diet. Duration of development from larva to adult and oviposition were evaluated. The results revealed that, significant lowest larval developmental period of 12.28 Â± 0.05 days was noticed on artificial diet, while it was maximum (16.82 Â','Spodoptera frugiperda, biology, maize, sugarcane, sorghum, artificial diet.','','',''),(3383,'107','Effect of Fusarium moniliforme Cultural Filtrate on Seed Quality Parameters of Paddy Cultivars','M. Yellamelli*, M.J. Patil, T.S. Pillai and L.B. Singh','67 Effect of Fusarium moniliforme Cultural Filtrate on Seed Quality Parameters of Paddy Cultivars M. Yellamelli.pdf','',1,'Fusarium moniliforme is one of the important seed borne fungi responsible for bakane or foot rot disease in paddy in india as well as across the globe. The study was conducted at the Plant Pathology Section, College of Agriculture, Nagpur in 2020 to find out the level of infection of F. moniliforme against seed quality parameters viz, germination per cent, shoot and root length and seedling vigour in four different varieties of paddy maintaining three replications by paper towel method. The results revealed that, higher seed quality parameters was observed with MTU-1010 cultivar recorded germination per cent (62.00%), shoot length (6.32 cm), root length (12.50 cm) and seedling vigour (1166.84) in inoculated seeds with F. moniliforme culture. While it was 84.25 per cent, 7.40 cm, 12.57 cm and 1682.47 respectively in uninoculated seeds. Least germination per cent, shoot length, root length and seedling vigour in inoculated seeds were 58.00 per cent, 4.11 cm, 7.19 cm and 655.40 respective','Paddy, Fusarium moniliforme, Paper towel, Seed quality parameters.','','',''),(3384,'107','Potential Hazardous Factors Affecting Survival of Mecheri Lambs','B. Balasundaram*, A.K. Thiruvenkadan, N. Murali, J. Muralidharan and D. Cauveri','68 Potential Hazardous Factors Affecting Survival of Mecheri Lambs B. Balasundaram.pdf','',1,'Survival analysis is an essential step for understanding lamb survival function and the hazardous factors affecting mortality rate. The survival data of 3715 Mecheri lambs born during the period from 1979 - 2018 at Mecheri Sheep Breeding Research Station, Pottaneri, Tamil Nadu were utilized for the analysis. Kaplan - Meier approach was used to estimate the survival function of lambs. The survival analysis with Cox proportional hazard model was carried out to assess the impactful factors of lamb mortality. Mortality in different growth intervals viz., birth to 3 months, 3 months to 6 months, 6 months to 9 months and 9 months to 12 months were recorded as 6.05 %, 4.74 %, 2.1% and 1.37 %, respectively. In all the four growth groups, male lambs were having higher hazard rate than females and the survival rate is higher for lambs born in main season than in off season. The survival rate of lambs with high birth weight was comparatively superior to the lambs having lesser birth weight. In co','Mecheri sheep, Mortality, Survival rate, Kaplan Meier curve, Cox regression.','','',''),(3385,'106','Trends of Ecofriendly Approach for Sustainable Pest Management','Gyan Prakash Morya and Rajnish Kumar','7 Trends of Ecofriendly Approach for Sustainable Pest Management Gyan Prakash Morya.pdf','',1,'The present study was attempted to investigate the emerging trends of eco-friendly approach for sustainable pest management. An extensive investigation was carried out by using books, reported studies and subject experts respectively. Insecticide application is the most common practice in crop protection. The role of insecticides in crop protection to increase output has been well known and these have been considered essential inputs in crop production. They are highly effective, rapid in curative action, adaptable to most situations, flexible in changing conditions and relatively more economical. It is general consideration that, the use of insecticides is most effective tool to overcome the pest problems. However, the indiscriminate use of insecticides has led to serious problems like, harmful residues in the produce, pesticide resistance and outbreaks of secondary pests. Their toxicity is lethal to all living organisms. Insecticides easily enter our food chain and increase their co','Ecofriendly approach, Sustainable pest management, Integrated pest management','','',''),(3386,'110','Assessment of different Organic sources on Turmeric (Curcuma longa L.) Varieties for Yield and Quality','Ch. Tania*, R. Chatterjee, P. K., Chattopadhyay, A. Phonglosa and T. Basanta*','1 Assessment of different Organic sources on Turmeric Curcuma longa L. Varieties for Yield and Quality.pdf','',1,'A field trial was carried to find out the efficacy of organics on different varieties of turmeric on various morphological, yield attributes, yield and qualitative characters in turmeric during the years 2012-13 and 2013-14 at the Horticultural Research Station Bidhan Chandra Krishi Viswavidyalaya, Mondouri, West Bengal. Application of vermicompost resulted an appreciable increase in plant height, number of tillers per clump, number of leaves per plant and girth of the plant. Among the different doses and sources of organic manure, vermicompost @ 10t/ha exhibited highest plant height (148.40 cm), number of tillers per plant (2.52), number of leaves per plant (18.46), girth of plant (3.22 cm) and this was closely followed by the application of mustard cake @ 10t/ha. Most of the vegetative growth characters viz., girth of the plant and number of tillers per plant showed superiority with variety Suranjana when compared with the other two varieties (Rajendra Sonia and Megha Turmeric). Howe','Turmeric, Variety, Vermicompost, yield, oleoresin and curcumin','','',''),(3387,'110','Effect of Dietary inclusion of Holy Basil (Ocimum sanctum Linn) and curry Leaves (Murraya koenigii L), either Singly or in Combination on Performance, Egg Quality and Egg Cholesterol in Laying Quails\r\n\r\n','Chongtham Sonia*, Praveen K. Tyagi, M. Norjit Singh, Blessa Sailo and Chongtham Tania','2 Effect of Dietary inclusion of Holy Basil _Ocimum sanctum Linn_ and curry Leaves _Murraya koenigii L_, either Singly or in Combination on Performance, Egg Quality and Egg Cholest CHONGTHAM SONIA.pdf','',1,'An experiment was carried out for six weeks using eight weeks old one hundred eighty white feathered laying quails (Coturnixcoturnix japonica) to study their production performance, egg quality and egg yolk cholesterol content in ICAR CARI, Izatnagar. The experiment was conducted following 2 x 3 factorial CRD wherein two herbs (holy basil and curry leaves) were fed to laying quails each at three dietary levels (0, 1 and 3%) of holy basil and curry leaves of 0, 2.5 and 5% in combination. All the laying quails were distributed randomly into nine dietary treatment groups (T1 to T9) on the basis of similar egg production and body weight. Each treatment has five replications containing four birds/replication. A standard corn-soya meal based basal diet to meet NRC (1994) standard for laying quails was formulated. From the basal diet as maintained above, nine experimental diets (designated as T1 through T9) were formulated by adding desired levels of Holy basil (HB) leave powder and Curry l','Holy basil, egg quality, egg yolk cholesterol, Curry leaves, Japanese quail, performance','','',''),(3388,'110','Heterotic performance of Morpho-Physiological Traits for Heat Tolerance in Bread Wheat (Triticum aestivum L.)','Amarjeet Kumar*, Swati, Sneha Adhikari, Anjali Joshi, Love Kumar, Alka Bharati, Birendra Prasad and Anil Kumar','3 Heterotic performance of Morpho-Physiological Traits for Heat Tolerance in Bread Wheat Triticum aestivum L. Amarjeet Kumar.pdf','',1,'Globally, wheat (Triticum aestivum L.) is the most important cereal. There are several challenges of wheat crop production due to climatic change, and among them, heat stress is a major one. A complete set of thirty-nine F1s, thirteen lines and three testers and two standard checks were evaluated in the RBD with three replications under two different environments, i.e., timely and late sown (E1 and E2). The different morpho-physiological characters like days to 75 per cent heading, days to maturity, plant height, spike length, relative injury (%) and grain yield per plantwere evaluated to estimate the heterosis level of different cross combinations.The standard heterosis over check UP2338, the highest negative significant heterosis was reflected in WH1124 Ã— HD3059 (-6.96 %, -3.98 %) in E1 and E2, respectively, concerning days to 75 % heading. The highest negative significant heterosis over check DPW621-50 was observed in WH1124 Ã— HD3059 (-5.58 %) and UP2843 Ã— HD2967 (-3.52 %) in E1','Heterosis, Heat tolerance, Wheat, Morpho-physiological traits, Wheat','','',''),(3389,'110','Comparative Evaluation of Different Cell lines for Adaptation of Orf virus vaccine strain Passaged in Primary lamb testes cells','Golmei Poulinlu, Gnanavel Venkatesan*, Amit Kumar, Anand Kushwaha and D. Muthuchelvan','4 Comparative Evaluation of Different Cell lines for Adaptation of Orf virus vaccine strain Passaged in Primary lamb testes cells Golmei Poulinlu.pdf','',1,'Orf virus (ORFV) is a poxvirus that causes non-systemic epitheliotropic disease in sheep and goats, resulting in economic losses to the welfare of farmed small ruminants and belongs to the genus Parapox virus and family Poxviridae. Vaccination is the only way to control orf infection in sheep and goats. In India, available vaccine for orf is produced from primary lamb testes cells (LT), which is not viable for scale up in large production and also virus yield varies from different batches. To overcome this, an attempt was undertaken to adapt and characterize ORFV vaccine strain in three different commonly available cell lines. In this study, LT adapted ORFV Mukteswar-59/05 vaccine strain was used for adaptation in Vero, Madin Darby Bovine Kidney (MDBK) and Baby Hamster Kidney (BHK-21) cell lines. In order to adapt vaccine virus in cell lines, it was blindly passaged up to 7 times and the presence of the virus and its replication was demonstrated by presence or appearance of characteris','Primary lamb testes cells, Orf virus, BHK-21, MDBK, Vero, Cytopathic effects, Adaptation.','','',''),(3390,'110','Identification of sustainable and profitable maize based cropping systems in Godavari Zone\r\n \r\n','Phani Kumar, K., Dakshinamurty, K.*, Sravanthi, S., Mohan Vishnu Vardhan K., Chamundeswari, N. and Mohan Rao, K. ','5 Identification of sustainable and profitable maize based cropping systems in Godavari Zone Dakshinamurty, K.pdf','',1,'In Godavari Zone of Andhra Pradesh, maize is becoming an important cereal crop. However even though farmers are reporting maize yields up to 10 tons per hectare, due to increased cost of cultivation and high input requirements, profitability of this maize based systems are not very remunerative to farmers. In Godavari zone, mostly farmers following Fallow- maize system and there is a possibility to include either millets or pulses in the system to improve overall productivity and profitability. This experiment was conducted at Maize Research Centre, ARS, Vijayarai to identify the sustainable and profitable maize based cropping system. It consists of 7 treatments viz., T1-Fallow- maize, T2- Maize-Maize system, T3- Millets (korra) â€“Maize, T4- Pulses (black/green gram) â€“ Maize, T5- Fallow- Maize+ High value vegetable crops (water melons/vegetables)-paired row, T6- Maize- Maize+ High value vegetable crops (water melons/vegetables)-paired row and T7- Maize- Maize+ pulses (black/green ','Cropping systems, Intercropping, Maize-pulses, Economics and System yield.','','',''),(3391,'110','Front Line Demonstration on Rice Variety Swarna Shreya by KVK in Katni District of Madhya Pradesh: A Impact Study','Arpita Shrivastava*, R. P. Bain, A. K. Tomar and R. K. Mishra','6 Front Line Demonstration on Rice Variety Swarna Shreya by KVK in Katni District of Madhya Pradesh A Impact Study Arpita Shrivastava.pdf','',1,'Rice is one of the oldest cultivated crop and staple food for worldâ€™s half population. KVK Katni made an attempt with an objective to substitute existing variety with improved rice variety Swarna Shreya. Front Line demonstrations (FLDs) is a unique approach to provide an direct interface between researcher and farmers as the scientists are directly involved in planning, execution and monitoring of the demonstrations for the technologies developed by them and get direct feedback from the farmers\' field about the crops. The FLD on improved variety Swarna Shreya was carried out during the two consecutive years 2018 and 2019 in Village Banda and Jarwahi, Block: Katni of Katni district. Result from the 20 conducted FLD indicated that improved variety Swarna Shreya exhibited mean grain yield 43.70 q/ha which 26.11% higher than the farmer practices. This might be due to knowledge and adopting of improved variety Swarna Shreya coupled with the scientific package of practices. Thus the FLD mi','Extension Gap, FLDs, Improved variety, Rice, Technology Gap','','',''),(3392,'110','Effect of Treated Sewage Water Irrigation on growth and Yield of Mulberry ','Arun Kumar M.* and Chandrashekhar S. ','7 Effect of Treated Sewage Water Irrigation on growth and Yield of Mulberry Arun Kumar.pdf','',1,'A field experiment was conducted in a V1 mulberry garden established under paired row system to study the influence of raw and treated sewage water irrigation on growth and yield of mulberry. The raw and treated sewage water were collected from GKVK sewage treatment plant and irrigated to mulberry garden. Application of different proportions of raw sewage, treated sewage and borewell water irrigation significantly influenced the growth parameters of V1 mulberry. Data recorded on growth parameters of mulberry revealed that raw sewage water irrigation significantly increased the plant growth parameters such as plant height (184.33 cm), highest shoot height (129.16 cm), number of shoots/plant (25.18), shortest internodal distance (5.36cm), number of leaves/plant (417.16), leaf area (202.16) than borewell water irrigation and also leaf yield (804.31 g/plant) is significantly increased in 100% raw sewage water irrigation. An overview of the study revealed that raw sewage water irrigated plo','Mulberry growth, leaf yield, raw sewage water, waste water and treated sewage water.','','',''),(3393,'110','Standardization and Nutrient Composition of the Proso Millet Chakli','Sarojani, J.K.*, Suvarna C. Hegde, S.R. Desai and Balachandra K. Naik','8 Standardization and Nutrient Composition of the Proso Millet Chakli Dr. Sarojani.pdf','',1,'Proso millet (Panicum miliaceum) is common and important minor millet belonging to the family Gramineae. This short duration millet variety is widely grown in India. Proso millet has high nutritive value which is rich in protein (13.96 g) and minerals (2.60) and is comparable to major cereal grains. Realizing the awareness of the consumers towards the nutritional and health benefits, proso millet was incorporated in preparation of chakli. In this study proso millet chakli was standardized with 65 per cent of proso millet flour, rice flour and other spices. The standerdised chakli can be stored up to one month in aluminium pouches without any quality deterioration. The results illustrate that 100 g chakli contains 50.26 per cent carbohydrates, 9.51 per cent protein, 30.47 per cent fat, 2.48 per cent ash, 7.28 per cent moisture, 2.37 per cent crude fiber, 40.10 mg/kg of iron, 20.10 mg/kg of zinc and 260.30 mg/kg of calcium.','Proso millet, standardization, organoleptic evaluation, shelf life and chakli','','',''),(3394,'110','Effect of Drying Methods on Proximates, Sensorial Quality and Shelf Life of Dehydrated Bitter Gourd','I. Tiwari*, A. Upadhyay, F. Ansari, G. K. Rana, K. K. Deshmukh, S. Patidar, P. S. Nayak and A. Singh','9 Effect of Drying Methods on Proximates, Sensorial Quality and Shelf Life of Dehydrated Bitter Gourd I. Tiwari.pdf','',1,'In context to combat basic health ailments Bitter gourd is a good source of vitamin C, catechin, gallic acid, epicatechin, and chlorogenic acid, too powerful antioxidant compounds that can help protect your cells against damage. For which dehydrated Bitter gourd was prepared using two drying methods i.e. cabinet and sun drying. Pretreatments like steam blanching and hot water blanching, different preservatives such as KMS, NaCl and Vinegar were used. The shelf life studies of dried bitter gourd were packed in plastic container and paper laminated with aluminium foil and stored for 90 days in ambient temperature. On the basis of experimental trials, it was found that, Cabinet drying gave better result as compared to sun drying. Whereas the treatment T7 (hot water blanching for 96Â°C for 3 min and dip in KMS solution (0.2%) for 5 min) was found to be best treatment then other treatment, after 90 days of storage period in paper laminate with aluminium foil packaging material found to be b','Bitter gourd, dehydration, sun drying, cabinet drying, rings and shelf life.','','',''),(3395,'110','Relative Influence of Insecticides on Colony Forming Units (CFUs) of Bacteria and Fungi in Rice (Oryza sativa L.) Soil','Tarra Hemanth, Ratna Kumari B.*, Madhumathi T. and Prasanna Kumari V.','10 Relative Influence of Insecticides on Colony Forming Units _CFUs_ of Bacteria and Fungi in Rice Oryzasativa L. Soil Tarra Hemanth.pdf','',1,'A laboratory study was conducted at Department of Entomology, Agricultural College, Bapatla to investigate the influence of five insecticides viz., imidacloprid 17.8 SL, chlorantraniliprole 18.5 SC, dinotefuran 20 SG, pymetrozine 50 WG, cartap hydrochloride 4 G at recommended dose (RD) and double the recommended dose (DRD) on the colony forming units (CFUs) of bacteria and fungi in black clay and sandy clay loam soils collected from fallow rice fields of Guntur district. The results indicated that the application of imidacloprid 17.8 SL at both RD and DRD resulted in significant decline in bacterial and fungal population in both the soils with a mean value of 146.50 Ã— 10-6 bacterial CFUs/g soil and 19.83 Ã— 10-4 fungal CFUs/g soil at DRD. Chlorantraniliprole 18.5 SC at both RD and DRD had no significant inhibitory effect on bacterial population in both the soils. In fact, the fungal population declined slightly in both the soils (28.33 Ã— 10-4 CFUs/g in sandy clay loam and 36.33 Ã— 10','Rice (Oryza sativa L.), Soil, Insecticides, Bacteria, Fungi, Colony forming units.','','',''),(3396,'110','Effect of Tillage and Nutrient Management Practices on Physico-chemical and Biological properties of Sandy Clay Loam Soils of Southern Agro-climatic Zone of Andhra Pradesh','T. Bhagavatha Priya1*, V. Chandrika, C. Ramana and K.V. Naga Madhuri','11 Effect of Tillage and Nutrient Management Practices on Physico-chemical and Biological properties of Sandy Clay Loam Soils of Southern Agro-climatic Zone of Andhra PradesT. Bhagavatha Priya.pdf','',1,'A field experiment was conducted in sandy clay loam soils of Dryland farm at S.V. Agricultural College, Tirupati campus of Acharya N.G. Ranga Agricultural University, Andhra Pradesh in split-plot design with three replications to study the performance of groundnut under different tillage and nutrient management practices viz., conventional tillage (M1), deep ploughing with disc plough upto a depth of 30 cm (M2), vertical tillage with subsoiler upto a depth of 40 cm at 1 m interval (M3), vertical tillage with subsoiler upto a depth of 60 cm at 1 m interval (M4) and control (S1), 50 % RDF (S2), 75 % RDF (S3), 100 % RDF (S4), 125 % RDF (S5), respectively. The results revealed that minimum bulk density, maximum aggregate stability and soil water content, higher count of total microbial mass in soil, groundnut pod yield, nutrient uptake as well as post harvest nutrient availability in soil after groundnut was obtained with vertical tillage with subsoiler upto 60 cm depth at 1 m interval (M4','Groundnut, Nutrient management, Tillage, Vertical tillage, Yield.','','',''),(3397,'104','Study on butterfly diversity in and around Sakoli, District Bhandara, Maharashtra','Mrunali Raut , Sudhir Bhandarkar','5_JNBR_10_2__2021.pdf','',1,'A study on butterfly diversity was carried out in and around Sakoli dist. Bhandara, Maharashtra. Some selected areas in the city and nearby villages were surveyed. A total of 86 species belongs to the family Papilionidae, Pieridae, Nymphalidae, Lycaenidae and Hesperiidae were recorded during the study period. Maximum of 33 species from Nymphalidae, followed by Lycaenidae (21), Pieridae (12), Hesperiidae (12) while minimum Papilionidae (8) contributing 59 genera. Nymphalidae with 22 followed by Lycaenidae (18), Hersperiidae (10) and Pieridae (8) are some of major genera. The minimum of genera reported from Papilionidae (3). In this study, the butterflies were categorized as very common, common, not rare, rare and very rare. The total of butterflies recorded as very common (38%), common (23%), not rare (8%), rare (19%) and found to be very rare (12%). From the present study, it reveals that the butterflies in and around Sakoli are rich in diversity.','Butterfly, Diversity, Abundance, Sakoli, Maharashtra.','','',''),(3398,'107','Genetic and Non-genetic Factors Influencing First Lactation 305 Days or Less Milk Yield (FL305MY) Trait of Karan Fries Cattle','Aakanksha Rathore Ramesh Kumar Singh and Avtar Singh','69 Genetic and Non-genetic Factors Influencing First Lactation 305 Days or Less Milk Yield _FL305MY_ Trait of Karan Fries Cattle Ramesh Kumar Singh.pdf','',1,'The actual performance records of first lactation 305 days or less milk yield (FL305MY) trait of Karan Fries cattle is a result of the interaction of both acting various genetic and non-genetic factors and thus, poor indicator their breeding values. The first lactation 305-day or less milk yield (FL305MY) records of 1481 Karan-Fries cows sired by 83 bulls calved during the period of 26 years from 1984 to 2009 remained after data editing were utilised in present study from the history-cum pedigree sheet and daily milk yield registers maintained at National Dairy Research Institute (NDRI), Karnal. The least squares mixed model fitting effect of genetic (sire) and non-genetic factors (periods, season and age groups) were used to analyze the data of FL305MY. The effect of sire (Pâ‰¤0.01) and age at first calving groups (Pâ‰¤0.05) was found to have significant effect on FL305MY. The season of calving and period of calving had non-significant effect on FL305MY. No definite trend of increase ','Genetic, non-genetic, factors, first lactation 305 days or less milk yield, Karan Fries, cattle','','',''),(3399,'107','Estimates of Genetic and Phenotypic Parameters for Milk Yield and Reproduction Traits in Karan-Fries Cattle','Aakanksha Rathore Ramesh Kumar Singh and Avtar Singh','70 Estimates of Genetic and Phenotypic Parameters for Milk Yield and Reproduction Traits in Karan-Fries Cattle Ramesh Kumar Singh.pdf','',1,'The records of 1481 Karan-Fries cows on first lactation data of production and reproduction traits, progenies of 82 sires were utilized to estimate the heritability, genetic and phenotypic correlations among these traits. The heritabilities for FL305MY, PY305MY, 180DMY, AFC and FSP traits were 0.346 Â± 0.10, 0.271 Â± 0.094, 0.343 Â± 0.101, 0.546 Â± 0.131 and 0.064 Â± 0.07 respectively. The moderate to high heritability estimates of milk yield and AFC traits indicated ample scope of their genetic improvement through selection and breeding. The heritability of FSP trait was estimated low in magnitude which indicated that the improvement in FSP may be achieved by providing better managemental practices. The phenotypic (rp) and genetic (rg) correlations among FL305MY, PY305MY and 180DMY traits were of high magnitude, positive and highly significant. It had indicated close association among them and the predicted and part lactation milk yield traits can be used for animal evaluation in fiel','Parameters, milk yield, reproduction trait, Karan-Fries cattle','','',''),(3400,'107','Population of Major Insect Pests of Rice Influenced Under Different Weather Parameters of Eastern Uttar Pradesh Conditions','Gyan Prakash Morya and Rajnish Kumar','71 Population of Major Insect Pests of Rice Influenced Under Different Weather Parameters of Eastern Uttar Pradesh Conditions Gyan Prakash Morya.pdf','',1,'Weather factors have always been found to be important for insect pests survival, growth, development, fecundity and reproduction. An investigation was undertaken to study the population of major insect pests of rice influenced under different weather parameters in rice field ecosystem of Eastern Uttar Pradesh, India for two consecutive years, 2014 and 2015. The population of major insect pests of rice were observed under particular weather parameters, i.e., temperature maximum, temperature minimum, relative humidity, and rainfall in different growth stages of rice. The influence of weather parameters on population of major insect pests of rice were inferenced by correlation coefficient. Of the total observed population of rice insect pests under damaging groups in all growth stages of rice under temperature maximum, temperature minimum, relative humidity, and rainfall, the correlation coefficients were - 0.669, - 0.649, - 0.564, and 0.821 for stem borers; 0.859, 0.846, 0.784, and - 0.','Major insect pests of rice, Weather parameters, Population influence, Eastern Uttar Pradesh, India','','',''),(3401,'107','Effect of Plant Growth Regulators and Fertilizers on Growth and Yield of Sunflower (Helianthus annuus L.)','Rama Devi Borra, Rajesh Singh and Punnam Chhetri','72 Effect of Plant Growth Regulators and Fertilizers on Growth and Yield of Sunflower Helianthus annuus L. Rama Devi Borra.pdf','',1,'A field experiment was conducted during Zaid season of 2021, at CRF (Crop Research Farm) of Agronomy Department at SHUATS, Prayagraj with the objective to study Performance of plant growth regulators and fertilizers effect on growth, yield and oil content of sunflower (Helianthus annuus L.) under Randomized block design comprising of 9 treatments, with 2 different plant growth regulators from 3 different fertilizers. And result showed the growth parameters viz. Plant height (128.60cm) at 80 DAS, number of leaves per plant (22.93 g) at 60 DAS and crop growth rate (2.24) at 60 DAS in (NPK 100:50:50 + GA3 200 ppm). The Yield parameters viz. seeds per capitulum (370.00), Test weight (38.60), seed yield (1480 kg/ha), stover yield (2903.20 kg/ha), biological yield (4383.20 kg/ha), Gross returns (162800 INR/ha), Net returns (128252 INR/ha) and BC ratio (1.26) were recorded maximum with application of (NPK 100:50:50 + GA3 200 ppm). Number of unfilled seeds per capitulum (21.63) are recorded ma','Sunflower, Nitrogen, Phosphorus and Potassium, GA3, Ethrel','','',''),(3402,'107','Current Scenario of National E-Platforms and Rashtreeya e-Market Services in Kartnataka','Pavitra A. Menasinkai* and B.L. Patil','73 Current Scenario of National E-Platforms and Rashtreeya e-Market Services in Kartnataka Pavitra A. Menasinkai.pdf','',1,'This digital inclusion in agricultural marketing sector initiated by Government of India which provides a unique service which provide all information and services of each APMCs, including the status of arrivals and assaying etc. and this platform offers competitive bid and unique feature of electronic payment directly to the farmersâ€™ bank accounts. This e-platform reduces the transaction costs, bridges information asymmetry between farmers and traders and it is helpful in the expansion of market access for farmers and other market stakeholders. Some popular e-trade among such platforms are eNAM (National Agriculture Market) and ReMS (Rashtreeya e-Market services). eNAM is an online trading platform for agricultural commodities in India which facilitates trader and farmers to deal with agricultural commodities and launched by the Ministry of Agriculture, Government of India on 14th April 2016 by Prime Minister of India, Narendra Modi. The portal is handled by Small Farmersâ€™ Agribus','eNAM and ReMS.','','',''),(3403,'111','Assessment of different Organic sources on Turmeric (Curcuma longa L.) Varieties for Yield and Quality','Ch. Tania*, R. Chatterjee, P. K., Chattopadhyay, A. Phonglosa and T. Basanta*','1 Assessment of different Organic sources on Turmeric Curcuma longa L. Varieties for Yield and Quality.pdf','',1,'A field trial was carried to find out the efficacy of organics on different varieties of turmeric on various morphological, yield attributes, yield and qualitative characters in turmeric during the years 2012-13 and 2013-14 at the Horticultural Research Station Bidhan Chandra Krishi Viswavidyalaya, Mondouri, West Bengal. Application of vermicompost resulted an appreciable increase in plant height, number of tillers per clump, number of leaves per plant and girth of the plant. Among the different doses and sources of organic manure, vermicompost @ 10t/ha exhibited highest plant height (148.40 cm), number of tillers per plant (2.52), number of leaves per plant (18.46), girth of plant (3.22 cm) and this was closely followed by the application of mustard cake @ 10t/ha. Most of the vegetative growth characters viz., girth of the plant and number of tillers per plant showed superiority with variety Suranjana when compared with the other two varieties (Rajendra Sonia and Megha Turmeric). Howe','Turmeric, Variety, Vermicompost, yield, oleoresin and curcumin','','',''),(3404,'111','Effect of Dietary inclusion of Holy Basil (Ocimum sanctum Linn) and curry Leaves (Murraya koenigii L), either Singly or in Combination on Performance, Egg Quality and Egg Cholesterol in Laying Quails','Chongtham Sonia*, Praveen K. Tyagi, M. Norjit Singh, Blessa Sailo and Chongtham Tania','2 Effect of Dietary inclusion of Holy Basil _Ocimum sanctum Linn_ and curry Leaves _Murraya koenigii L_, either Singly or in Combination on Performance, Egg Quality and Egg Cholest CHONGTHAM SONIA.pdf','',1,'An experiment was carried out for six weeks using eight weeks old one hundred eighty white feathered laying quails (Coturnixcoturnix japonica) to study their production performance, egg quality and egg yolk cholesterol content in ICAR CARI, Izatnagar. The experiment was conducted following 2 x 3 factorial CRD wherein two herbs (holy basil and curry leaves) were fed to laying quails each at three dietary levels (0, 1 and 3%) of holy basil and curry leaves of 0, 2.5 and 5% in combination. All the laying quails were distributed randomly into nine dietary treatment groups (T1 to T9) on the basis of similar egg production and body weight. Each treatment has five replications containing four birds/replication. A standard corn-soya meal based basal diet to meet NRC (1994) standard for laying quails was formulated. From the basal diet as maintained above, nine experimental diets (designated as T1 through T9) were formulated by adding desired levels of Holy basil (HB) leave powder and Curry l','Holy basil, egg quality, egg yolk cholesterol, Curry leaves, Japanese quail, performance','','',''),(3405,'111','Heterotic performance of Morpho-Physiological Traits for Heat Tolerance in Bread Wheat (Triticum aestivum L.)','Amarjeet Kumar*, Swati, Sneha Adhikari, Anjali Joshi, Love Kumar, Alka Bharati, Birendra Prasad and Anil Kumar','3 Heterotic performance of Morpho-Physiological Traits for Heat Tolerance in Bread Wheat Triticum aestivum L. Amarjeet Kumar.pdf','',1,'Globally, wheat (Triticum aestivum L.) is the most important cereal. There are several challenges of wheat crop production due to climatic change, and among them, heat stress is a major one. A complete set of thirty-nine F1s, thirteen lines and three testers and two standard checks were evaluated in the RBD with three replications under two different environments, i.e., timely and late sown (E1 and E2). The different morpho-physiological characters like days to 75 per cent heading, days to maturity, plant height, spike length, relative injury (%) and grain yield per plantwere evaluated to estimate the heterosis level of different cross combinations.The standard heterosis over check UP2338, the highest negative significant heterosis was reflected in WH1124 Ã— HD3059 (-6.96 %, -3.98 %) in E1 and E2, respectively, concerning days to 75 % heading. The highest negative significant heterosis over check DPW621-50 was observed in WH1124 Ã— HD3059 (-5.58 %) and UP2843 Ã— HD2967 (-3.52 %) in E1','Heterosis, Heat tolerance, Wheat, Morpho-physiological traits, Wheat','','',''),(3406,'111','Comparative Evaluation of Different Cell lines for Adaptation of Orf virus vaccine strain Passaged in Primary lamb testes cells','Golmei Poulinlu, Gnanavel Venkatesan*, Amit Kumar, Anand Kushwaha and D. Muthuchelvan','4 Comparative Evaluation of Different Cell lines for Adaptation of Orf virus vaccine strain Passaged in Primary lamb testes cells Golmei Poulinlu.pdf','',1,'Orf virus (ORFV) is a poxvirus that causes non-systemic epitheliotropic disease in sheep and goats, resulting in economic losses to the welfare of farmed small ruminants and belongs to the genus Parapox virus and family Poxviridae. Vaccination is the only way to control orf infection in sheep and goats. In India, available vaccine for orf is produced from primary lamb testes cells (LT), which is not viable for scale up in large production and also virus yield varies from different batches. To overcome this, an attempt was undertaken to adapt and characterize ORFV vaccine strain in three different commonly available cell lines. In this study, LT adapted ORFV Mukteswar-59/05 vaccine strain was used for adaptation in Vero, Madin Darby Bovine Kidney (MDBK) and Baby Hamster Kidney (BHK-21) cell lines. In order to adapt vaccine virus in cell lines, it was blindly passaged up to 7 times and the presence of the virus and its replication was demonstrated by presence or appearance of characteris','Primary lamb testes cells, Orf virus, BHK-21, MDBK, Vero, Cytopathic effects, Adaptation','','',''),(3407,'111','Identification of sustainable and profitable maize based cropping systems in Godavari Zone','Phani Kumar, K., Dakshinamurty, K.*, Sravanthi, S., Mohan Vishnu Vardhan K., Chamundeswari, N. and Mohan Rao, K.','5 Identification of sustainable and profitable maize based cropping systems in Godavari Zone Dakshinamurty, K.pdf','',1,'In Godavari Zone of Andhra Pradesh, maize is becoming an important cereal crop. However even though farmers are reporting maize yields up to 10 tons per hectare, due to increased cost of cultivation and high input requirements, profitability of this maize based systems are not very remunerative to farmers. In Godavari zone, mostly farmers following Fallow- maize system and there is a possibility to include either millets or pulses in the system to improve overall productivity and profitability. This experiment was conducted at Maize Research Centre, ARS, Vijayarai to identify the sustainable and profitable maize based cropping system. It consists of 7 treatments viz., T1-Fallow- maize, T2- Maize-Maize system, T3- Millets (korra) â€“Maize, T4- Pulses (black/green gram) â€“ Maize, T5- Fallow- Maize+ High value vegetable crops (water melons/vegetables)-paired row, T6- Maize- Maize+ High value vegetable crops (water melons/vegetables)-paired row and T7- Maize- Maize+ pulses (black/green ','Cropping systems, Intercropping, Maize-pulses, Economics and System yield.','','',''),(3408,'111','Front Line Demonstration on Rice Variety Swarna Shreya by KVK in Katni District of Madhya Pradesh: A Impact Study','Arpita Shrivastava*, R. P. Bain, A. K. Tomar and R. K. Mishra','6 Front Line Demonstration on Rice Variety Swarna Shreya by KVK in Katni District of Madhya Pradesh A Impact Study Arpita Shrivastava.pdf','',1,'Rice is one of the oldest cultivated crop and staple food for worldâ€™s half population. KVK Katni made an attempt with an objective to substitute existing variety with improved rice variety Swarna Shreya. Front Line demonstrations (FLDs) is a unique approach to provide an direct interface between researcher and farmers as the scientists are directly involved in planning, execution and monitoring of the demonstrations for the technologies developed by them and get direct feedback from the farmers\' field about the crops. The FLD on improved variety Swarna Shreya was carried out during the two consecutive years 2018 and 2019 in Village Banda and Jarwahi, Block: Katni of Katni district. Result from the 20 conducted FLD indicated that improved variety Swarna Shreya exhibited mean grain yield 43.70 q/ha which 26.11% higher than the farmer practices. This might be due to knowledge and adopting of improved variety Swarna Shreya coupled with the scientific package of practices. Thus the FLD mi','Extension Gap, FLDs, Improved variety, Rice, Technology Gap','','',''),(3409,'111','Effect of Treated Sewage Water Irrigation on growth and Yield of Mulberry ','Arun Kumar M.* and Chandrashekhar S. ','7 Effect of Treated Sewage Water Irrigation on growth and Yield of Mulberry Arun Kumar.pdf','',1,'A field experiment was conducted in a V1 mulberry garden established under paired row system to study the influence of raw and treated sewage water irrigation on growth and yield of mulberry. The raw and treated sewage water were collected from GKVK sewage treatment plant and irrigated to mulberry garden. Application of different proportions of raw sewage, treated sewage and borewell water irrigation significantly influenced the growth parameters of V1 mulberry. Data recorded on growth parameters of mulberry revealed that raw sewage water irrigation significantly increased the plant growth parameters such as plant height (184.33 cm), highest shoot height (129.16 cm), number of shoots/plant (25.18), shortest internodal distance (5.36cm), number of leaves/plant (417.16), leaf area (202.16) than borewell water irrigation and also leaf yield (804.31 g/plant) is significantly increased in 100% raw sewage water irrigation. An overview of the study revealed that raw sewage water irrigated plo','Mulberry growth, leaf yield, raw sewage water, waste water and treated sewage water.','','',''),(3410,'111','Standardization and Nutrient Composition of the Proso Millet Chakli','Sarojani, J.K.*, Suvarna C. Hegde, S.R. Desai and Balachandra K. Naik','8 Standardization and Nutrient Composition of the Proso Millet Chakli Dr. Sarojani.pdf','',1,'Proso millet (Panicum miliaceum) is common and important minor millet belonging to the family Gramineae. This short duration millet variety is widely grown in India. Proso millet has high nutritive value which is rich in protein (13.96 g) and minerals (2.60) and is comparable to major cereal grains. Realizing the awareness of the consumers towards the nutritional and health benefits, proso millet was incorporated in preparation of chakli. In this study proso millet chakli was standardized with 65 per cent of proso millet flour, rice flour and other spices. The standerdised chakli can be stored up to one month in aluminium pouches without any quality deterioration. The results illustrate that 100 g chakli contains 50.26 per cent carbohydrates, 9.51 per cent protein, 30.47 per cent fat, 2.48 per cent ash, 7.28 per cent moisture, 2.37 per cent crude fiber, 40.10 mg/kg of iron, 20.10 mg/kg of zinc and 260.30 mg/kg of calcium.','Proso millet, standardization, organoleptic evaluation, shelf life and chakli.','','',''),(3411,'111','Effect of Drying Methods on Proximates, Sensorial Quality and Shelf Life of Dehydrated Bitter Gourd','I. Tiwari*, A. Upadhyay, F. Ansari, G. K. Rana, K. K. Deshmukh, S. Patidar, P. S. Nayak and A. Singh','9 Effect of Drying Methods on Proximates, Sensorial Quality and Shelf Life of Dehydrated Bitter Gourd I. Tiwari.pdf','',1,'In context to combat basic health ailments Bitter gourd is a good source of vitamin C, catechin, gallic acid, epicatechin, and chlorogenic acid, too powerful antioxidant compounds that can help protect your cells against damage. For which dehydrated Bitter gourd was prepared using two drying methods i.e. cabinet and sun drying. Pretreatments like steam blanching and hot water blanching, different preservatives such as KMS, NaCl and Vinegar were used. The shelf life studies of dried bitter gourd were packed in plastic container and paper laminated with aluminium foil and stored for 90 days in ambient temperature. On the basis of experimental trials, it was found that, Cabinet drying gave better result as compared to sun drying. Whereas the treatment T7 (hot water blanching for 96Â°C for 3 min and dip in KMS solution (0.2%) for 5 min) was found to be best treatment then other treatment, after 90 days of storage period in paper laminate with aluminium foil packaging material found to be b','Bitter gourd, dehydration, sun drying, cabinet drying, rings and shelf life.','','',''),(3412,'111','Relative Influence of Insecticides on Colony Forming Units (CFUs) of Bacteria and Fungi in Rice (Oryza sativa L.) Soil','Tarra Hemanth, Ratna Kumari B.*, Madhumathi T. and Prasanna Kumari V.','10 Relative Influence of Insecticides on Colony Forming Units _CFUs_ of Bacteria and Fungi in Rice Oryzasativa L. Soil Tarra Hemanth.pdf','',1,'A laboratory study was conducted at Department of Entomology, Agricultural College, Bapatla to investigate the influence of five insecticides viz., imidacloprid 17.8 SL, chlorantraniliprole 18.5 SC, dinotefuran 20 SG, pymetrozine 50 WG, cartap hydrochloride 4 G at recommended dose (RD) and double the recommended dose (DRD) on the colony forming units (CFUs) of bacteria and fungi in black clay and sandy clay loam soils collected from fallow rice fields of Guntur district. The results indicated that the application of imidacloprid 17.8 SL at both RD and DRD resulted in significant decline in bacterial and fungal population in both the soils with a mean value of 146.50 Ã— 10-6 bacterial CFUs/g soil and 19.83 Ã— 10-4 fungal CFUs/g soil at DRD. Chlorantraniliprole 18.5 SC at both RD and DRD had no significant inhibitory effect on bacterial population in both the soils. In fact, the fungal population declined slightly in both the soils (28.33 Ã— 10-4 CFUs/g in sandy clay loam and 36.33 Ã— 10','Rice (Oryza sativa L.), Soil, Insecticides, Bacteria, Fungi, Colony forming units.','','',''),(3413,'111','Effect of Tillage and Nutrient Management Practices on Physico-chemical and Biological properties of Sandy Clay Loam Soils of Southern Agro-climatic Zone of Andhra Pradesh','T. Bhagavatha Priya*, V. Chandrika, C. Ramana and K.V. Naga Madhuri','11 Effect of Tillage and Nutrient Management Practices on Physico-chemical and Biological properties of Sandy Clay Loam Soils of Southern Agro-climatic Zone of Andhra PradesT. Bhagavatha Priya.pdf','',1,'A field experiment was conducted in sandy clay loam soils of Dryland farm at S.V. Agricultural College, Tirupati campus of Acharya N.G. Ranga Agricultural University, Andhra Pradesh in split-plot design with three replications to study the performance of groundnut under different tillage and nutrient management practices viz., conventional tillage (M1), deep ploughing with disc plough upto a depth of 30 cm (M2), vertical tillage with subsoiler upto a depth of 40 cm at 1 m interval (M3), vertical tillage with subsoiler upto a depth of 60 cm at 1 m interval (M4) and control (S1), 50 % RDF (S2), 75 % RDF (S3), 100 % RDF (S4), 125 % RDF (S5), respectively. The results revealed that minimum bulk density, maximum aggregate stability and soil water content, higher count of total microbial mass in soil, groundnut pod yield, nutrient uptake as well as post harvest nutrient availability in soil after groundnut was obtained with vertical tillage with subsoiler upto 60 cm depth at 1 m interval (M4','Groundnut, Nutrient management, Tillage, Vertical tillage, Yield.','','',''),(3414,'111','Genetic Variability, Heritability, Genetic Advance and Correlation Coefficient Study in Fenugreek Cultivars (Trigonella foenum-graecum L.)','Shakthi P.N., K.C. Meena*, I.S. Naruka, D.K. Patidar, Nitin Soni and K. Alam Khan','12 Genetic Variability, Heritability, Genetic Advance and Correlation Coefficient Study in Fenugreek Cultivars Trigonella foenum-graecum L. K.C. Meena.pdf','',1,'A field experiment was conducted with twenty cultivars at College of Horticulture, Mandsaur (Madhya Pradesh) in Randomized Block Design with three replications during the year 2018-19. This investigation revealed that phenotypic coefficient of variation was higher than the genotypic due to influence of environment on the expression of the characters. The highest GCV was observed for number of pods plant-1 (27.13). The highest PCV % observed for number of pods plant-1 (27.62) followed by seed yield (21.09).The highest heritability was recorded in number of pods plant-1 (96.55) followed by days to 50% flowering (96.00) and number of secondary branches plant-1 (90.60). The highest genetic advance was recorded in number of pods plant-1 (33.69) followed by plant height (15.42) and fresh weight g plant-1 (14.72). The highest genetic advance as percent of mean was observed in number of pods plant-1 (54.93) afterward seed yield g plant-1 (34.84) and seed yield q ha-1 (34.84). Correlation studi','Genetic Variability, Heritability, Genetic Advance, Correlation Coefficient and Trigonella foenum-graecum L.','','',''),(3415,'111','In vitro Bio control Efficiency of Bacterial Endophytes and its Effect on Growth Parameter of Chilli (Capsicum annum L.)','Suma C. Kammar*, Mahadeva Swamy, Nagaraj M. Naik, Ravindra C. Gundappagol, B.K. Desai and Amaresh Y.S.','13 In vitro Bio control Efficiency of Bacterial Endophytes and its Effect on Growth Parameter of Chilli Capsicum annum L. Suma C. Kammar.pdf','',1,'The antagonistic activity of endophytic bacteria against two phytopathogens viz., Fusarium oxysporum, Colletotrichum sp. were isolated from healthy tissues of chilli and tomato plants in 2018-2019 and the pot experiment was carried out in the glass house of Department of Agricultural Microbiology, University of Agricultural Sciences, Raichur with eighteen treatments and three replications. To explore the antifungal activity was screened using dual culture method in which both endophytic bacteria and test fungi were inoculated in single Potato Dextrose Agar (PDA) media plate. The potential endophytic bacterial isolates were identified through morphological and biochemical characteristics revealed that the Bacillus species were the dominant antagonist. The results of present study indicated that the isolate ESK-26 and ESK-32 recorded highest per cent inhibition of 63.85 % and 61.25 % against Fusarium oxysporum and Colletotrichum spp. respectively. Significantly highest plant height, nu','Endophytic bacteria, Bacillus sp. Plant growth promotion, chilli, Fusarium oxysporum and Colletotrichum spp.','','',''),(3416,'111','Enhancing the Millet System Productivity with Intercrops','M. Jyostna Kiranmai*, S. Saralamma and C.V.C.M. Reddy','14 Enhancing the Millet System Productivity with Intercrops M. Jyostna Kiranmai.pdf','',1,'A field experiment on intercropping of small millets (Foxtail millet and little millet) with redgram was carried out at Regional Agricultural Research Station, Nandyal for two consecutive years during kharif 2018-19 and 2019-20 to identify the best row proportion to achieve sustainable productivity and higher yields. Based on the results, it was observed that intercropping of small millets with redgram in 6:1 ratio [foxtail millet + Redgram (4498 kg/ha) and little millet + Redgram 3366 kg/ha] recorded significantly higher Millet grain equivalent yield than sole redgram (1641 kg/ha). Almost all yield attributing characters of millets recorded significantly higher in sole crop. Among the ratio of intercropping system 6:1 row ratio recorded higher Millet Grain equivalent yield along with net income than 6:1 row ratio.','Randomized block design, Redgram, foxtail millet.','','',''),(3417,'111','Screening, Morphological and Biochemical Evaluation of Cashew Variety in Relation to Tea Mosquito Bug, Helopeltis Antonii Signoret Infestation','Damasia D.M.*, Patel Z.P., Bambharolia R.P. and Makvana A.I.','15 Screening, Morphological and Biochemical Evaluation of Cashew Variety in Relation to Tea Mosquito Bug, Helopeltis Antonii Signoret Infestation Damasia D. M.pdf','',1,'Tea mosquito bug (Helopeltis antonii Signoret) is one of the most important pests of cashew (Anacardium occidentale L.) in India and is highly prone to damage by this pest worldwide. Seven varieties of cashew were screened against tea mosquito bug under field conditions at Agriculture Experimental Station, Navsari Agricultural University, Paria, Gujarat, India. The average of shoot and panicle damage scale was ranged from 0.71 to 1.26.Among the different varieties screened, Vengurla-3 and 7 were classified under moderately susceptible category, whereas Vengurla-1, 2, 4, 5 and 6 were categorized as highly susceptible. Early flowering varieties suffer more damage than mid flowering varieties. Susceptibility increased with increase in starch, total amino acid and total sugar while, decreased with increase in total phenol content in tender shoot of cashew. ','Cashew, damage scale, tea mosquito bug, screening, vengurla.','','',''),(3418,'111','Drip Irrigation in Rice and Wheat Cropping System under Conservation Agriculture: Water Scarcity Solution','Arpna Bajpai* and Arun Kaushal','16 Drip Irrigation in Rice and Wheat Cropping System under Conservation Agriculture Water Scarcity Solution Arpna Bajpai.pdf','',1,'Water scarcity involving water shortage, water stress and its deficit is a main concern in arid and semi-arid regions around the world. Micro irrigation system such as surface and subsurface drip irrigation systems with excellent uniformity parameter and higher performance are often recommended to solve this problem. Transplanted rice required 40% more water for land preparation and 10% more water for irrigation as compared to wet seeded rice. Study also revealed that under transplanted rice total water consumption was 21% more compared with wet seeded rice. Study showed that drip irrigation increased grain yield of wheat by 4.9 to 6.9%, water use efficiency by 20.89-43.13% and water saving by 36.24-76 % as compared to conventional method of irrigation. For rice crop, drip irrigation system increased grain yield by 5.39 to 30%, water use efficiency by 39.81-69.23% and water saving by 44.5-97 % as compared to conventional method of irrigation. Conservation agriculture coupled with drip ','Drip irrigation, Water scarcity, Water Saving, Water Productivity, Water use efficiency.','','',''),(3419,'111','Effect of Pretreatment on Dimensional Properties of water Chestnut','F.G. Sayyad*, S.H. Akbari, D.K. Vyas and M.M. Trivedi','17 Effect of Pretreatment on Dimensional Properties of water Chestnut F.G. Sayyad.pdf','',1,'The aim of the study was to study effect of pretreatment on dimensional properties of water chestnut. To obtain good quality of water chestnut kernel and its flour, it is important to standardize pretreatment and its effect on dimensional parameters. For this, samples Water chestnut: Water ratio 1:1.5 was treated at 90ÂºC hot water for 30, 60 and 90 minutes and kept samples for 60,120 and 180 min as residence time inside the pressure vessels. The dimensional properties of whole water chestnut (WWC) and water chestnut kernel (WCK) were determined. On the basis of dimensional properties of WWC and WCK, it was found that if the graded sample treated for 60 min in hot water and then kept it for 120 min as residence time gave good quality of water chestnut kernels i.e. length, width, thickness, bulk density and hardness are 49.63 mm, 25.90 mm, 17.91 mm, 842.2 kg/m3 and 24.89 N respectively. The outcome of this present study will give valuable insight for designing post harvest handling sys','WWC, WCK, HWT, RT, Pressure vessel, Pretreatment, Dimensional properties.','','',''),(3420,'111','Screening of Soybean Genotypes against Major Insect Pests','Bala Muralidhar Naik R.*, Vijaya Lakshmi K., Venkataiah M., Srinivas C., Uma Devi. G. and Radha Krishna K.V.','18 Screening of Soybean Genotypes Against Major Insect Pests Bala Muralidhar Naik.pdf','',1,'The field trial was conducted at Regional Agricultural Research Station, Polasa, Jagtial during the kharif seasons 2014-15 and 2015-16 to evaluate eight soybean germplasms comprising of advanced breeding lines, released varieties for resistance against stem fly and tobacco caterpillar. Based on the stem tunnelling and tobacco caterpillar larval incidence the germplasms were categorized into resistance groups. Among the different genotypes, KDS 869, JS 20-98, RSC 10-46, NRC 116, RVS 2008-24, KDS 753, RVS 2008-8 were highly resistant to stem fly and tobacco caterpillar. Whereas, JS 335 was highly susceptible to tobacco caterpillar. On the other hand MACS 1454 was highly susceptible to stem fly and tobacco caterpillar.','Soybean, Stem fly, Tobacco caterpillar, Screening, Genotypes.','','',''),(3421,'111','Survey to Know the Status of Sclerotium rolfsii Sacc. causing Foot Rot in Irrigated Finger Millet of Southern Karnataka','Raveendra, H.R., Mallikarjuna, N., Sahana S.R.* Shubhashree, K.S. and Madhusudan, K.','19 Survey to Know the Status of Sclerotium rolfsii Sacc. causing Foot Rot in Irrigated Finger Millet of Southern Karnataka SAHANA S.R.pdf','',1,'Finger millet (Eleusine coracana (L.) Gaertn) is one of the important nutri millet crop of India. It is one of the staple food crop grown by subsistence farmers in the semi-arid tropics of South Asia and Africa. Due to its greater tolerance to biotic and abiotic stresses, better suitability for different cropping systems and contingent crop plans; it is cultivated on varied soil and climatic conditions compared to other cereals. Among these diseases, foot rot is one of the important emerging diseases of Finger Millete specially under irrigated and high rainfall situations. To know the foot rot disease occurrence and incidence of S. rolfsii a roving survey was undertaken during 2018-19 in southern districts of Karnataka viz., Mysuru, Mandya, Ramanagara, Chamarajanagara, Hassan and Tumkuru. The survey data revealed that; mean foot rot disease incidence varied from 4.45 to 19.19 per cent in different locations. The highest mean per cent disease incidence was recorded in the Mandya distric','Finger millet, Sclerotium rolfsii, foot rot, Hotspot, Incidence.','','',''),(3422,'111','Estimation of Genetic Parameters and Association Analysis of Yield and Yield Attributing Traits of sorghum (Sorghum bicolor L. moench)','S.K. Sameera*, S. Isha Parveen, T. Bhagavatha Priya, C.V. Chandra Mohan Reddy, N. Kamakshi, Srujana and M. Hemanth Kumar','20 Estimation of Genetic Parameters and Association Analysis of Yield and Yield Attributing Traits of sorghum Sorghum bicolor L. moench S K. Sameera.pdf','',1,'Twenty advance breeding lines of Sorghum were evaluated for their genetic variability with regards to grain yield and yield components. Study of genetic parameters through which heritability of characters and tight association among them can be known and the selection of yield attributes can be easily done for further improvement. Along with variability, heritability and genetic advance as percent mean was also calculated. In addition, association analysis was also taken up for these traits. The results revealed High heritability (>60%) estimates was observed with the characters viz., days to 50% flowering, Plant Height, Panicle length, 100 seed weight indicating the low influence of environment on these characters. Further, high (>20%) estimates of genetic advance as percent mean was observed in Plant height, Panicle length and 100 seed weight. In addition, high heritability coupled with high genetic advance as percent mean was recorded with Plant height, Panicle length and 100 seed w','Coefficient of variation, Genetic advance as percent mean, Heritability, Sorghum, Variability, Yield. ','','',''),(3423,'111','Correlation Amongst Reproductive, Quality and Soil Parameters of Pomegranate in Response to Plant Growth Regulating substances and Fertigation in Vertisols of South-East Rajasthan','Mahaveer Suman*, M.C. Jain and Vikram Kumar Yadav','21 Correlation Amongst Reproductive, Quality and Soil Parameters of Pomegranate in Response to Plant Growth Regulating substances and Fertigation in Vertisols of South-East RajaMahaveer Suman.pdf','',1,'Correlation studies were resolute among reproductive, yield, quality and soil parameters of pomegranate in response to use of different treatment combinations of plant growth regulating substances and fertigation during two successive years i.e. 2018 and 2019 under the Department of Fruit Science, College of Horticulture and Forestry, Jhalawar. The experiment was laid out in Factorial Randomized Block Design and each treatment was replicated thrice and per treatment two plants were used and experimentation comprising of 27 treatment combinations for the study. The flowering-fruiting parameters viz. number of flowers per shoot, fruit set per cent, fruit retention per cent and fruit qualityattributesviz.TSS, total sugar, ascorbic acid and anthocyanin content exhibited significant and positive correlation with each other. The days taken to first harvesting, days taken to complete harvesting, fruit acidity per cent, soil bulk density and soil pH exhibited significant and positive correlati','Ethrel, Fertigation, NAA, Soil, Sugar, Quality.','','',''),(3424,'111','Weed Management in Kodo Millet (Paspalum scrobiculatum L.)','Sukanya T.S.*, T. S. Chaithra, C. and Pratima Ningaraddi Morab','22 Weed Management in Kodo Millet Paspalum scrobiculatum L. Sukanya, T.S.pdf','',1,'Kodo millet is one of the important nutri cereal crop and the extent of yield reduction due to weed is in the rage of 33-50% depending on the intensity and persistence of weed density. To find out an alternative weedicide for 75% Isoproturon due to its scarce availability in market, the experiment was conducted at AICRP on Small Millets, Bangalore during Kharif 2018, 2019 to 2020. The field experiment was laid out in Randomized Complete Block Design with eleven treatments that included the application of pre-emergence application of Oxadiargyl 80 WP, Bensulfuron ethyl 0.6 G + pretilachlor 6.0 G, Butachlor 50 EC, postemergence herbicides like bispyribacsodium 10% SC and Ethoxysulfuron15 WG followed by one intercultivation at 25-30 DAS in all the herbicide imposed treatments. The results revealed that among different treatments, pre-emergent application of Butachlor 50 EC 750 g a.i./ha (within 3DAS) has recorded significantly higher grain yield (2218 kg/ha), straw yield (4815 kg/ha), ne','Butachlor, Pre-emergent, Post emergence, Yield and Weed control efficiency.','','',''),(3425,'111','Shelf Life Prediction of Canned Palmyra Palm Tender Fruit Endosperm using Accelerated Shelf Life Testing - Arrhenius Method','S.K. Mathanghi*, S. Kanchana and V. Perasiriyan','23 Shelf Life Prediction of Canned Palmyra Palm Tender Fruit Endosperm using Accelerated Shelf Life Testing - Arrhenius Method S.K.pdf','',1,'This experiment is aimed at prediction of shelf life of canned Palmyra palm Tender Fruit Endosperm (PTFE) which is an essential step in launch of a new product to the consumer market. To determine the suitability of canned PTFE to support long-term storage during off seasons, accelerated shelf life studies were performed on representative samples kept in three different simulated temperatures 35ÂºC, 45ÂºC and 55ÂºC. The change in physical properties assessments were employed to establish shelf life endpoints for canned PTFE. Development of off-colour and presence of haze was observed through change in OD value of syrup and taste change was observed through TSS and pH values in accelerated conditions. The canned PTFE had F value of 10.19 minutes to reach the commercial sterility. The canning technology is an adaptable one where there is no usage of any chemical preservative and in a convenient package form; additionally the use of sterilization temperature and pressure combination ext','ASLT, Palmyra palm, Arrhenius method, Borassus flabellifer, shelf life.','','',''),(3426,'111','Land Use and Land Cover Change Analysis using Remote Sensing and GIS Techniques','Amritpal Digra* and Arun Kaushal','24 Land Use and Land Cover Change Analysis using Remote Sensing and GIS Techniques Amritpal Digra.pdf','',1,'Land use and Land cover (LU/LC) is a result of socio-economic factors, natural factors and their utilization by human being. From multiple researches, it is clear that accurately monitoring of LU/LC changes is important to understand the interactions and bond between natural phenomena and mankind. The combine use of Remote Sensing (RS) with Geographic Information System (GIS) have proved as an important tool which can provide accurate data and information on LU/LC changes. Use of multi-spectral satellite imageries have significant role to classify LU/LC and detect changes because it provides time to time information about where and what changes have occurred and its impact on environment and humans. Several methods are available which can be used for LU/LC classification and change detection. All methods have their own pros and cons but not a single method is optimum. Several National and International studies on LU/LC change analysis using remote sensing and GIS have been carried out ','Land use and land cover, Change analysis, Remote sensing, Geographic information system, Supervised classification method.','','',''),(3427,'111','Standardization of Technology for Preparation of Candy from Ripe Papaya (Carica papaya Linn.) Fruits','Nilam, V. Patel*, J.M. Mayani, Dev Raj and T.R. Ahlawat','25 Standardization of Technology for Preparation of Candy from Ripe Papaya Carica papaya Linn. Fruits Dr. Nilam V. Patel.pdf','',1,'The aim of this research experiment is to develop osmotic dehydrated candy from ripe papaya by utilizing of ripe papaya for its excellent nutritional value. Value addition from ripe papaya is negligible hence it is utilized for the preparation of osmotic dehydrated product. The present study was carried out for preparation of candy from ripe papaya (Carica papaya Linn.) fruits cv. Taiwan Red Lady by osmosis using different treatments viz, osmosis in 500 g, 750 g and 1000 g sugar/kg pieces as well as 50Â°B, 60Â°B and 70Â°B TSS sugar syrup/kg pieces followed by air dehydration. The observations for physico-chemical as well as organoleptic properties of candy were studied at interval of two months up to 6 months and data were analyzed in Completely Randomized Design with four repetitions. The results revealed that the mass transfer out and mass transfer in of papaya candy were increased gradually during osmotic treatment up to four days. During storage of six months at ambient condition t','Candy, Osmosis, Osmotic-dehydration, Papaya, Papaya Candy, Storage.','','',''),(3428,'111','Locating of Hot Spots of Foot Rot (Sclerotium rolfsii sacc.) of Finger Millet in the Irrigated Ecosystem of southern Dry Zone of Karnataka','Bharath, M., Raveendra, H. R., Sahana S.R.*, Supriya, S. and Shubhashree, K.S.','26 Locating of Hot Spots of Foot Rot _Sclerotium rolfsiisacc._ of Finger Millet in the Irrigated Ecosystem of southern Dry Zone of Karnataka SAHANA S.R.pdf','',1,'Finger millet (Eleusine coracana (L.) Gaertn) is one of the important millet crops widely cultivated across India and more than 60 per cent of its area is concentrated in Karnataka. Even though it is hardy in nature, it has been affected from many biotic and abiotic stresses. Among them, foot rot caused by Sclerotium rolfsii is becoming a major threat in recent years to the finger millet production under irrigated and high rainfall condition. A different stage of crop is more susceptible to disease over a period of time and it gives them intensity with which it affects the yield. To know the occurrence and distribution of the pathogen a roving survey was carried out during Kharif 2019-20 in the major finger millet growing regions of Southern districts of Karnataka. The survey data showed that, mean foot rot disease incidence varied from 4.34 to 42.14 per cent in different locations. The highest mean per cent disease incidence was recorded in the Mandya district (42.14%), followed by Ch','Finger millet, Sclerotium rolfsii, foot rot, Hotspot, Incidence.','','',''),(3429,'111','Impact Assessment of Pheromones Traps and Lures for Fruit fly, Bactrocera spp. in Bundelkhand region','Sundar Pal, David Chella Baskar, Pradeep Kumar and Amit Kumar Patel','27 Impact Assessment of Pheromones Traps and Lures for Fruit fly, Bactrocera spp. in Bundelkhand region DR SP Panwar.pdf','',1,'The following eight species of fruit fly, Bactrocera cucurbitae and B. caudate in cue lure and B. affinis, B. caryeae, B. correcta, B. diversa, B. dorsalis, and B. zonata caught in methyl eugenol baited traps. Rabi season, characterized by the active presence of B. cucurbitae, B. correct, B. diverse, and B. dorsalis, zaid by B. caudada, B. zonata, and B. affinis and kharif by B. caryeae. The cuelure performance held the highest caught 80.16%, and the bottle fruit fly trap trapped the highest number of fruit flies (48%) during zaid season, and it trapped 153.1 FFs after a rupee investment. There was a correlation between B. correcta, B. cucurbitae, B. diversa, and B. dorsalis population with abiotic factors that prevalence was negative with maximum and minimum temperatures, wind, and rainfall. Fruit fly management is challenging because of their feeding habits, high reproduction rates, habitat variation, and polyphagous nature. One management tactic will not be able to handle fruit fli','Abiotic factors, Fruit fly, Lures, Population, Traps.','','',''),(3430,'111','Exploitation of Heterosis for Seed Yield and Quality Traits in Sesame (Sesamum indicum L.)','Sandhya, H.R., Madhusudan, K., Raveendra, H. R. and Sahana S.R.*','28 Exploitation of Heterosis for Seed Yield and Quality Traits in Sesame Sesamum indicum L. SAHANA, S.R.pdf','',1,'An experiment was conducted to know the heterosis for seed yield and quality parameters in sesame. In this study Line Ã— Tester analysis in sesame using twenty lines and two tester was carried out to assess the heterosis and combining ability for various quantitative traits viz., days to 50% flowering, days to maturity, plant height, number of branches per plant, number of capsules per plant, capsule length, 1000 seed weight, oil content and seed yield per plant. The ratio of General combining ability (GCA) to Specific combining ability (SCA) variance showed the preponderance of non-additive gene action in the expression of all the traits which can be improved by heterosis breeding method. The crosses MT-10-8-2, AT-207, RT-362 and JLS-301-24 were recorded the high, significant and positive standard heterosis for seed yield per plant and some of its component traits. Such crosses could be exploited for practical heterosis breeding programme in sesame. The hybrid combination Mangala Loca','Sesame, Heterosis, Line Ã— Tester, SCA, GCA.','','',''),(3431,'107','Morphological and Molecular Characterization of Root Knot nematode (Meloidogyne spp.) in Carrot (Daucus carota L.) from Tamil Nadu, India','J. Lalson Wesly*, P. Kalaiarasan, K. Devrajan, S. Rajesh and M. Elayarajan','74 Morphological and Molecular characterization of Root Knot nematode _Meloidogyne spp._ in Carrot _Daucus carota L._ from Tamil Nadu, India J. Lalson Wesly.pdf','',1,'Root malformation is the major hinder faced by carrot growers. Root knot nematodes, Meloiodogyne spp. acts as a prime cause for the carrot root malformation. Hence, an extensive random survey was conducted in different locations from leading carrot growing districts of Tamil Nadu viz., The Nilgiris, Dindigul, Erode and Krishnagiri districts for root knot nematodes parasitizing carrot, and their infestation was recorded everywhere except Erode. The compound microscopic images of posterior cuticular pattern of females collected from tropical and temperate ecosystems revealed the high dorsal arch and flattened ovoid shape, vindicating Meloidogyne incognita and M. hapla, respectively. The 560 bp amplicon 18S rDNA region of females from the tropical and temperate ecosystems of Tamil Nadu were greater than 98 per cent similar to M. incognita and M. hapla, respectively. The present study confirmed the parasitisation of M. incognita and M. hapla in carrots cultivated from tropical and temperat','Carrot, root knot nematodes, posterior cuticular pattern, polymerase chain reaction and Tamil Nadu','','',''),(3432,'111','Studies on Efficacy of Cyantraniliprole 19.8% + Thiamethoxam 19.8% W/W FSAs Seed Treatment against Fall Army Worm Spodoptera frugiperda (J. E. Smith) on Maize','Phani Kumar, K.* and Kamakshi N.','29 Studies on Efficacy of Cyantraniliprole 19.8 Thiamethoxam 19.8WW FSAs Seed Treatment against Fall Army Worm Spodoptera frugiperda _J. E. Smith_ on Maize Phani Kumar, K.pdf','',1,'Fall armyworm is one of the main destructive invasive insect pests in India, which threaten the production of corn starting from the seedling stage to maturity stage. The present work aimed to evaluate the effect of seed treatment on the management of fall army worm (Spodoptera frugiperda) at initial stages of maize crop. The experiment was carried out under field conditions at Maize Research Center, Agricultural Research Station, Vijayarai in Andhra Pradesh. The experimentation was executed with seven treatments viz., Cyantraniliprole plus thiamethoxam at the doses of 5.0ml (T2); 6.0ml (T3) and 7.0ml kg-1 of seed (T4); T5: thiamethoxam @8.0ml kg-1 of seed; T6: cyantraniliprole at 2.4 ml kg-1 of seed; T7: carbofuran at 33.0 kg ha-1 applied through seed treatment along with T1: untreated control with three replications in a completely randomized design. Seed treatment had no adverse effect on germination of maize and there was no significant difference in plant height of maize among d','Seed treatment, Cyantraniliprole + thiamethoxam, fall army worm, Maize, Spodoptera frugiperda','','',''),(3433,'111','Synergistic Efficacy of Centella asiatica and Andrographis paniculata in the Treatment of Gastroenteritis in Parvo Viral Infection with Special Reference to Oxidative Stress','Lovelin Shweta Xaxa and Praveen Kumar','30 Synergistic Efficacy of Centella asiatica and Andrographis paniculata in the Treatment of Gastroenteritis in Parvo Viral Infection with Special Reference to Oxidative StreLovelin Shweta Xaxa.pdf','',1,'Parvovirus, or canine parvovirus, is a potentially fatal viral disease that affects dogs worldwide. There has been an alarming increase of up to 70% in cases due to the pandemic compared to the previous five years. So, this experimental study was designed to evaluate the antioxidant activity of herbal remedies used for the treatment of gastroenteritis and to document indigenous knowledge about these remedies. Our study involved 18 puppies suffering from gastroenteritis caused by parvovirus. They were divided into three groups by random selection T1, T2 & T3. Group T1 was treated with the combination of Andrographis paniculata and Centella asiatica, Group T2 was treated with Andrographis paniculata alone while the group T3 was treated with known sources of natural antioxidant Vit E & Se. The animals were regularly monitored and blood samples were collected on day 0, 3, 5, 7, 10 & 15 for hemato--biochemical and oxidative stress studies. Group T1 showed a marked improvement by the fifth d','Pups, Andrographis paniculata, Centella asiatica, gastroenteritis, parvo viral infection, oxidative stress.','','',''),(3434,'107','Improving the Post-harvest Characteristics of Indian jujube (Ziziphus mauritiana Lamk cv. Gola) by Modified Atmosphere Packaging','Laxman Jat*, Sunil Pareek, Suman Gathala and Virendra Singh','75 Improving the Post-harvest Characteristics of Indian jujube _Ziziphus mauritiana Lamk cv. Gola by Modified Atmosphere Packaging Laxman Jat.pdf','',1,'Ziziphus mauritiana is a highly perishable fruit of Asiatic origin, and it is difficult to keep fresh after harvest. Rapid ripening, quality loss and sped up ethylene synthesis are the critical factors of short shelf life. In this study, we studied the effectiveness of modified atmospheric packaging on the qualitative parameters of Indian jujube fruit. Fruits were picked at the colour changing stage and packaged in polyethylene bags with one concentration of O2 (2%) in combination with three CO2 concentrations (5, 10, and 15%) and kept at 12Â°C with 85-90 % RH for 35 days. We measured total soluble solids (TSS), titratable acidity (TA), total sugar, reducing sugar, ascorbic acid, and total phenol during storage. Fruit stored in an atmosphere with a environmental gaseous composition served as a control and quickly lost important qualitative characteristics, as seen by faster colour changes, softening, decreased acidity, and increased sugars and total soluble solids. Because of the delay','Ascorbic acid, Indian Jujube, Ripening, Shelf life, titratable acidity','','',''),(3435,'107','Heating Performance and Pollutant Emissions in Burning Biocoal Prepared from Waste Tender Coconut\r\n\r\n','M.K. Ghosal and Kingshuk Roy*','76 Heating Performance and Pollutant Emissions in Burning Biocoal Prepared from Waste Tender Coconut M.K. Ghosal.pdf','',1,'A study was conducted to assess the heating performance and pollutant emissions from burning of biocoal (briquetted char) prepared from waste tender coconut. Heating performance with respect to calorific value, cooking efficiency and burning rate of biocoal, possessing coal like properties has been investigated. A solar powered forced draft cook stove was used to evaluate the heating performance and emissions of gases such as CO2, CO and HC while burning the biocoal in it. The biocoal was prepared from waste tender coconut through the process of carbonization and then densification of char with the use of five different binding materials such as cow dung, kitchen wastes, food waste, grass and waste paper slurry because of their easy and cheap availability. The loose char obtained from the carbonization process was densified by hand press method. From the study, it was revealed that the calorific value of the charred tender coconut waste is about 38% higher that of the uncharred raw ten','Tender coconut wastes, bioenergy resource, biocoal, carbonization of biomass, biomass briquetting, Pollutant emission','','',''),(3436,'107','Evaluation of Curcumin Content of Turmeric Accessions Collected from North East India','S.G. Magar* and V.K. Chowdhury','77 Evaluation of Curcumin Content of Turmeric Accessions Collected from North East India S.G. Magar.pdf','',1,'The turmeric globes medicinal invaluable herb, possesses yellow colour pigment curcumin. It offers myriad benefits anticancer, anti-depressant, antioxidant, and antifungal properties. It is believed that turmeric with reddish yellow colour has health benefits, but no reliable proof is available to validate. Since it has high demand for various purposes, large quantity extraction with low-cost is necessary. Therefore, the study standardized a precise spectrophotometric method of curcumin content estimation at 425nm using absolute alcohol. The finding disclose spectrometric method is simple and easy and can used for quality control analysis. Also, study revealed direct association between rhizome colour and curcumin content, the higher curcumin content gives darker rhizome colour. The curcumin content studied in 17 accessions of North East India, discovered different range from 0.29-8.9%. The higher curcumin content observed in Lachin (8.9%) rhizome with reddish-yellow colour followed b','Curcumin, Lakadong, North East India, Turmeric, Variation.','','',''),(3437,'107','Productivity and Quality Enhancement of Pearl millet (Pennisetum glaucum) Through Integrated Use of Organic and Inorganic Sources of Nitrogen','Tharapureddi Bhargavi*, K. Mosha, M. Martin Luther, P. Venkata Subbaiah and N. Swetha','78 Productivity and Quality Enhancement of Pearl millet _Pennisetum glaucum_ Through Integrated Use of Organic and Inorganic Sources of Nitrogen Tharapureddi Bhargavi.pdf','',1,'Chemical fertilizers are one of the costliest input for pearl millet cultivation and also its imbalanced usage results in deficiency of macro and micro nutrients, soil health and finally yield reduction. Considering this issue a field experiment was conducted to study the effect of different sources of nitrogen on the productivity of pearl millet (Pennisetum glaucum). The experiment was conducted at Agricultural College Farm, Bapatla kharif during 2019. Eight treatments of various inorganic and organic proportions were applied and replicated thrice in a randomized block design. The results revealed that the maximum growth, yield and quality of pearl millet was obtained with application of 75% STBN (Soil Test Based Nitrogen) + 25% vermicompost + Azospirillum @ 5 kg ha-1. Strategic planning in terms of a combined application of organic manures with inorganic fertilizers will not only improve soil health, but also benefits farmers by lowering their reliance and expenditure, exclusively on','Azospirillum, Soil test based nitrogen, Vermicompost, Yield.','','',''),(3438,'107','Approaches for Amelioration of Selenium Deficiencies/toxicities in Crop Plants','G.S. Sanghera*, Prabhjot S. Sanghera and Rajan Bhatt','79 Approaches for Amelioration of Selenium Deficienciestoxicities in Crop Plants Gulzar S Sanghera.pdf','',1,'Selenium (Se) is a widely dispersed trace element that has both positive and harmful effects on people, animals, and plants. The structure of the parental material and the activities that follow soil formation affect the availability of Se in the soil. The amount of Se in the environment is influenced by human activities. Despite the fact that plants are the primary source of selenium in animal and human diets, the significance of selenium in plants is still controversial. Under both ideal and unfavourable climatic conditions, a low Se concentration can be helpful to plant growth, development, and ecophysiology. However, excess Se on the contrary, has harmful consequences, especially in Se sensitive plants, since it alters protein structure and function and causes oxidative/nitrosative stress, which affects numerous metabolic processes. Se hyper accumulators, on the other hand, absorb and tolerate extremely high levels of Se and might be utilized to remediate, i.e., remove, transfer, s','Selenium, phytoremedation, toxicity, metabolism, oxidative stress.','','',''),(3439,'107','A Study on Management Practices followed by the Sugarcane Growers for Preventing Flood Losses','L.S. Lonkar*, K.V. Gurav and B. T. Kolgane','80 A Study on Management Practices followed by the Sugarcane Growers for Preventing Flood Losses L.S. Lonkar.pdf','',1,'The Sugarcane is main cash crop in the Kolhapur district. Due to surety of water in this region, rich soil and a supporting cooperative ensured a prosperous rural economy for decades. In 2019 sugarcane was planted over 1.52 lakh ha in district Kolhapur of Maharashtra (SANDRP 2019). But due to occurrence of flood in 2019 it was witnessed that the fields were submerged for 20 days. This led to wilted and stunted leaves, with a quickly spreading fungus that ate into the sugarcane leaf. Famers who are completely dependent on sugarcane crop have undergone heavy losses. Thus, it is essential to utilize the management practices that will help the crop to survive under flood condition.\r\nThe study was conducted during the year 2019-20 in the Kolhapur district of Maharashtra state. The present investigation â€œA study on management practices followed by the sugarcane growers for preventing flood lossesâ€ was conducted in Karveer and Shirol tahsil of Kolhapur district. Seven villages from each t','Adoption, flood management, Sugarcane. ','','',''),(3440,'107','Correlation Analysis of Avocado (Persea americana Mill.) Genotypes from Lower Pulney Hills of Tamil Nadu','Gopi V.*, M. Ananthan, M.S. Aneesa Rani, M. Kumar, P. Jeyakumar and V. Krishnamoorthy','81 Correlation Analysis of Avocado _Persea americana Mill._ Genotypes from Lower Pulney Hills of Tamil Nadu Gopi V.pdf','',1,'Avocado (Persea americana Mill.) commonly known as â€œButter Fruitâ€ is an evergreen subtropical fruit tree native to Central America and Mexico. Seventy diverse genotypes of Avocado were selected from the Lower Pulney Hills (Western Ghats) of Tamil Nadu for the current study during October 2019 to September 2021. The study was aimed to evaluate the yield contributing characters of lower Pulney hills of Tamil Nadu The yield correlated characters like Tree age, tree height, tree canopy, trunk circumference, fruit circumference, fruit length, fruit weight, pulp peel ratio and yield were estimated. The phenotypic correlation, as well as their direct and indirect impacts, were assessed in avocado using correlation coefficient analysis to determine the influence of the most parameters to yield. Tree height (0.510), tree canopy (0.410), trunk circumference (0.660), fruit weight (0.771), length of seed cavity (0.505), and fruit circumference (0.353) all had favourable direct effects on yield','Avocado, Fruits, yield, correlation, coefficient.','','',''),(3441,'107','Effect of Weather Factors and Growing Degree day on Population Build up of Aphis craccivora and Empoasca kerri on Vigna mungo','B. Kundu*, N. Chaudhuri, T. Dhar and A. Ghosh','82 Effect of Weather Factors and Growing Degree day on Population Build up of Aphis craccivora and Empoasca kerri on Vigna mungo B. Kundu.pdf','',1,'Black gram, Vigna mungo (Linn.) Hepper, a short duration pulse crop, which popularly known as urdbean, mash, mashkalai etc., belongs to the family Fabaceae; sub family Papilioniaceae are infested by sap feeder, foliage feeder, pollen and tissue borer and fruit feeder. Amongst the pests, sap feeders like aphid (Aphis craccivora) and jassid (Empoasca kerri) play major role in reducing the yield quality and quantity of the crop. An experiment was thus conducted to assess the influence of weather factors on population build up of A. craccivora and E. kerri in black gram crop during pre-kharif and post kharif season of two years 2018 and 2019. Pestsâ€™ data of four crop seasons, when corroborated with weather parameters it was revealed that evening relative humidity and rainfall had a negative significant influence on aphid population in both the seasons. In addition to this maximum and minimum temperature showed significant negative correlation in post kharif season. However, morning rela','Aphis craccivora, Empoasca kerri, Abiotic factors, Growing degree day','','',''),(3442,'107','Effect of Different Level of Nutrient on Growth, Yield and Quality of Spinach Beet (Beta vulgaris var. bengalensis) in Hydroponic System under Shade Net Condition','Nandan Kumar*, Vijay Bahadur, Tarence Thomas and Samir E. Topno','83 Effect of Different Level of Nutrienton Growth, Yield and Quality of Spinach Beet _Beta vulgaris var. bengalensis_ in Hydroponic System under Shade Net Condition Nandan Kumar.pdf','',1,'The present research experiment was carried out during January to February 2021 under Shade net condition Research Field of Department of Horticulture, SHUATS, Prayagraj. The experiment was conducted in Randomized Block Design (RBD), with eight treatments, replicated thrice in hydroponic system with variety all-green. From the present experimental finding it is found that the T7 (Epsom salts and micros (17.5ml/10L) (MnSO4, ZnSO4, CuSO4, B, Common Salt) + Iron Chelate (17.5m1/10L) + Mono Ammonium phosphate (17.5ml/10L)N:P:K 11:48:00 + Calcium Nitrate (27.5ml/10L) N:P:K 15:00:00 + Potassium Nitrate (27.5ml/10L) N:P:K 13:00:44 )was found superior over other treatments in terms of plant height (44.08cm), Number of leaves per plant (25.33cm), leaf length (36.33cm), leaf width (8.95cm), root length (6.25cm), amount of water used (10.43L), plant weight per plant (37.21g), Yield per structure (4.06kg), TSS (5.47Â°Brix) and chlorophyll content (32.98) of Spinach Beet in hydroponic system.\r\nMaxi','Spinach Beet, Epsom salts and micros, Iron chelate, Mono ammonium phosphate, Calcium nitrate and Potassium nitrate.','','',''),(3443,'107','Determination of Acephate, Chlorpyriphos and Malathion Residues in Tomato','P. Vijay Babu*, B. Ratna Kumari, T. Madhumathi, V. Prasanna Kumari and Ch. Sreenivasa Rao','84 Determination of Acephate, Chlorpyriphos and Malathion Residues in Tomato P. Vijay Babu.pdf','',1,'Over the last years, the detection of pesticide residues in the official food safety surveillance programs of India has been increased, mainly in fresh vegetables like tomatoes. The organophosphorus insecticides are frequently applied in tomato cultivation in India. The study was initiated to determine the acephate, chlorpyriphos and malathion residues in tomatoes after harvest with UV-VIS spectrophotometer. The fruit samples were collected two hours after spraying (HAS), 1, 3, 5, 7 and 10 days after spraying (DAS). The results of the present study revealed that the tomato fruit samples which were collected at 2 HAS, 1 and 3 DAS (1.464 and 5.911 mg kg-1) showed the acephate and malathion residues to be above maximum residue limits (MRLâ€™s are 1 and 3 mg kg-1) and below MRL at 5 DAS (0.319 and 1.586 mg kg-1). Similarly, the chlorpyriphos residues were detected above MRL (0.5 mg kg-1) in the fruit samples collected up to 5 DAS (1.278 mg kg-1) and the subsequent samples collected at 7 ','UV-VIS Spectrophotometer, acephate, chlorpyriphos, malathion and maximum residue limit.','','',''),(3444,'111','Evaluation of Different Botanicals against Yellow Stem Borer (Scirpophaga incertulas, Walker) and Leaf FOLDER (Cnaphalocrocis medinalis, Guenee) of Rice','I. Paramasiva*, Ch Sreelakshmi, U. Vineetha and P. Rajasekhar','31 Evaluation of Different Botanicals Against Yellow Stem Borer Scirpophaga incertulas, Walker_ and Leaf FOLDER Cnaphalocrocis medinalis, Guenee of Rice I Paramasiva.pdf','',1,'Rice stem borer and leaf folder are important insect pests of rice that cause economic loss. Chemical control against these pests causing harmful effects, so it is necessary to find alternative methods. In this context a field experiment was conducted to evaluate the botanical insecticides along with chemical insecticides rynaxypyr and dinotefuran against the stem borer and leaf folder of rice. The experimental material comprised for five botanical (camphor oil, Cedarwood oil, eucalyptus oil, lemon grass oil and neemazal) along with recommended insecticides, dinotefuran and rynaxypyr. Chemical insecticide rynaxypyr 20 SC @ 0.3 ml/L was found effective to control both stem borer and leaf folder infestation. Among the botanicals tested, neemazal @ 5 ml/L was found superior in controlling the stem borer infestation where as lemon grass oil @ 2 ml/L was found effective against leaf folder incidence with highest per cent reduction over untreated check. Since these botanicals are eco-friendl','Rice Yellow stem borer, Leaf folder, Scirpophaga incertulas, Cnaphalocrocis medinalis, Botanicals.','','',''),(3445,'111','Growth and Economic Assessment of Multiple Fish varieties-paddy Model and its Suitability in the Integrated Paddy cum Fish Culture System (IPFCS) under Hill Zone of Karnataka, India','Swamy, A.V.*, Shivaprasad, M., Vinay, J.U., Rashmi, C. and Rajanna, C.','32 Growth and Economic Assessment of Multiple Fish varieties-paddy Model and its Suitability in the Integrated Paddy Cum Fish Culture System IPFCS under Hill Zone of Karnataka, ISwamy, A. V.pdf','',1,'Paddy cultivated areas in Malnad regions are transforming into fallow because of low economic returns from the paddy cultivation. Paddy cum fish culture system is the integrated approach which enhances the productivity of paddy as well as fish. In present investigation, performance of different fish varieties viz., Common carp, Red platy, Black molly, white molly and Red sword tail in paddy ecosystem (CTH-1 or Kempumukthi variety) was studied at AHRS, Kademadkal. Paddy and fishes were cultivated in the same field. The result revealed that, the growth (length and weight) was increased in the all the fish varieties. The survivality of all the fishes were more than 80 per cent except common carp fish. In paddy monoculture, 5300 m2 area of paddy produced the grain yield of 10.73 quintals and straw yield of 16.17 quintals. In paddy cum fish culture, 12.44 q/5300 m2 of grain yield and 18.74 q/5300 m2 of straw yields were produced. The grain and straw yield of paddy was higher in paddy-cum-fi','Kempumukthi, Black molly, Common carp, Paddy cum fish culture and Hill zone.','','',''),(3446,'111','Varietal Screening of Gladiolus under Sikkim Agro-Climatic Conditions','S. Gurung, S. Rai* and M. Rana','33 Varietal Screening of Gladiolus under Sikkim Agro-Climatic Conditions S. Rai.pdf','',1,'Gladiolus is an important cut flower commercially grown in Sikkim for local market and for export to the other part of the country. However lack of scientific studies and crop improvement program seems depriving for proper utilization of the available varieties for quality production. The aim of the study was to find out the suitability of ten Gladiolus varieties for cultivation under Sikkim conditions in terms of growth and flowering characters for cut flower production.. Among the selected varieties, Wed in Bouquets obtained maximum plant height (59.09 cm) but maximum spike length (117.56 cm), spike weight (107.94 g) and maximum vase life (14.2 days) were obtained in Puppy Tears, whereas maximum numbers of florets were produced by Wed in Bouquets (13.33). Priscilla produced highest number of cormlets (63.87) among all the selected varieties. The variability and both PCV and GCV were highest for number of parameters among the different varieties. Heritability estimates were high among','Varietal screening, Gladiolus, Variability, PCV, GCV, Heritability and Correlation.','','',''),(3447,'111','Economic Analysis of Production and Marketing of Milk in Karnataka','Revappa, M. Rebasiddanavar*, Ajay Verma, R. Raju and Aditi Agrawal','34 Economic Analysis of Production and Marketing of Milk in Karnataka Revappa M. Rebasiddanavar.pdf','',1,'The present study has investigated the production and marketing of milk in Dharwad and Mandya districts, representing the Northern and Southern dry zones of Karnataka. There is regional differences in milk production within the state. The current study has made an effort to find out the factors influencing milk production in Karnataka. The primary data was collected from 100 dairy households during 2019-20, with the help of well-structured interview schedule by employing the personal interview approach. Along with standard procedure for estimation of marketed surplus of milk, the basic statistical tools such as mean, percentage and ratios were employed for the data analysis. The total milk production in Karnataka during 2019-20 was found to be 159.64 lakh liters per day (LLPD). However, the milk maximum contribution was made by the crossbred cows with the production of 108.78 LLPD, this was followed by the buffalo and local cows to the tune of 3.67 and 47.19 LLPD, respectively. Total m','Economic analysis, Milk production, Marketing channel, Dharwad, Mandya, Karnataka.','','',''),(3448,'111','Efficacy of essential oils on groundnut bruchid Caryedon serratus (Oliver)','Y. Srujana*, K. Vemana, K.S.S. Naik, O. Venkateswarlu and E. Venkataramanana','35 Efficacy of essential oils on groundnut bruchid Caryedon serratus Oliver Y. Srujana.pdf','',1,'Groundnut bruchid Caryedon serratus (Oliver) is the major insect pest of concern as it attacks and damages the pods and kernals in stored conditions. To manage storage grain insect pest mostly inorganic pesticides are being used which causes deleterious effect on humans. Hence, an experiment was conducted to test the bio-efficacy of some safe and eco-friendly essential oils against groundnut bruchid under laboratory conditions. Highest adult bruchid mortality of 90% was recorded from neem seed oil 10% followed by neem seed oil 5% (83.33%). These were followed by pongamia seed oil 10% (80%), castor seed oil 10% (75%), pongamia seed seed oil 5% (73.33%) and castor seed oil 5% (65%). Therefore, an eco-friendly approach like use of essential oils like neem oil may be encouraged to manage the groundnut bruchid in storage conditions. ','Groundnut, Caryedon serratus, essential oils, per cent mortality.','','',''),(3449,'107','Study on Genetic Variability of Gladiolus (Gladiolus grandiflorus L.) Cultivars under Prayagraj Agro-climatic conditions','Ayushi Goyanka* and Devi Singh','85 Study on Genetic Variability of Gladiolus Gladiolus grandiflorus L. Cultivars under Prayagraj Agro-climatic conditions Ayushi Goyanka.pdf','',1,'The present experiment was carried out from November 2020 to April 2021 in the experimental block of the department of horticulture, Naini Agricultural Institute, SHUATS, Prayagraj. The field experiment was carried out in randomised block design (RBD) with eight genotypes of Gladiolus. The data was observed from five randomly selected competitive plants from each replication for 25 quantitative characters. The genotypes are White prosperity (V1), Advanced red (V2), Strong gold (V3), Jessica (V4), Nightmare (V5), Purple flora (V6), Trade horn (V7), Priscilla (V8). The phenotypic coefficient of variation (PCV) was higher than the genotypic coefficient of variation (GCV) for all characters indicating the influence of environment on these characters. High phenotypic and genotypic coefficients of variation was observed for Weight of daughter corm, Number of cormels per hectare, Number of corm per hectare, Number of days taken to first floret open, corm yield/plant, Weight of mother corm, Co','GCV, PCV, Heritability, Genetic Advance, and Gladiolus.','','',''),(3450,'107','Effect of Incorporation of Foxtail Millet for Preparation of Dosa Breakfast Mix and Comparison with the Traditional Dosa Mix','P. Mounika*, G. Gnanashree, P. Sangeetha, A. Tejaswini and Samreen','86 Effect of incorporation of Foxtail Millet for preparation of dosa breakfast mix and comparison with the traditional dosa mix P. Mounika.pdf','',1,'Foxtail millet (Setaria italica L.) is one of the ancient crops that are largely grown in semi-arid and arid climatic regions of Asia, Africa and India. Foxtail millet consists of prominent levels of fiber, mineral, protein, phytochemicals and other bio-active compounds. Inspite of the nutritional benefits of foxtail millet, the consumption of this millet is less. The present study was conducted to formulate nutritious rich millet dosa mix and comparison of the biochemical composition and sensory qualities of those with traditional rice-based dosa mix. The present study concentrated in the area of value addition to millets. Dosa breakfast mix was developed by incorporation of raw foxtail millet at different levels (25%, 35%, 40% and 50%) and cooked dosa. The dosa prepared were subjected to analysis. Dosa prepared by incorporating Foxtail millet recorded values as protein (14â€“15%), fat (5â€“9%), ash content (2â€“3%) and crude fibre (2â€“4%). The results obtained for dosa prepared by ','Protein, crude fibre, proportion, dietary values, anti-nutrients.','','',''),(3451,'107','Assessment of Ajwain (Trachyspermum ammi L.) Genotypes for Reproductive and Yield attributes under Eastern Dry Zone of Karnataka','Ranjeetha R.*, Vishnuvardhana, Ramachandra R.K., Ramegowda G.K., Sangeetha C.G. and Venkatesh J.','87 Assessment of Ajwain Trachyspermum ammi L. Genotypes for Reproductive and Yield Attributes under Eastern Dry Zone of Karnataka Ranjeetha R.pdf','',1,'Fourteen ajwain genotypes were evaluated at College of Horticulture, Bengaluru, Karnataka, India, from October 2019 to April 2020 in-order to identify suitable ajwain genotype for Eastern dry zone of Karnataka. The experiment was laid out in randomised complete block design and Fisherâ€™s method of data analysis was used. Evident differences among ajwain genotypes in days to first flowering, 50 % flowering, days to maturity, number of umbels per plant, number of umbellet and seeds per umbel, seed yield per plant, per plot and per hectare, harvest index and test weight confirms the presence of variability among them. The genotype AA-93 registered minimum number of days to first flower appearance (53.00 days), days to 50 per cent flowering (65.00 days) and days for umbel formation (78.67 days). The maximum and minimum number of umbels per plant was registered in the genotype GA-1 (207.20) and Lam Sel-1 (99.33), respectively. The number of umbellet per umbel was maximum in the genotype AA','Ajwain, variability, genotypes, pharmacological activities, essential oil.','','',''),(3452,'107','General Combining Ability Effects of New Inbred Lines and Identification of Best Specific Combiners to Exploit Heterosis for Seed yield and Oil content in Sunflower (Helianthus annuus L.)','M.S. Umar Farooq*, M. S. Uma, S.D. Nehru and C.P. Manjula','88 General Combining Ability Effects of New Inbred Lines and Identification of Best Specific Combiners to Exploit Heterosis for Seed yield and Oil content in Sunflower Helianthus annuus L. Umar Farooq.pdf','',1,'Successful selection of genotypes with a high genetic potential for seed yield and oil content requires all the possession of the appropriate genetic variability in the initial material. In order to achieve this, it is necessary to have information on the mode of inheritance and the manifestation of heterotic effect for trait of interest as well as to identify superior genotypes based on combining abilities, with this background an investigation was carried out on 200 sunflower hybrids produced through line x tester mating design using 5 CMS lines and 40 newly developed inbred lines (testers) to generate information on effects due to combining ability in respect of seed yield and oil content in sunflower. Analysis of variance revealed that the mean sum of squares due to the testers was significant for the two traits under study. Estimation of general combining ability (GCA) effects of testers indicated that, the testers viz., F-20, L-3-1 and B-29-2 exhibited significant GCA effects for','GCA, Heterosis, line Ã— tester analysis, Oil content, Seed yield and SCA.','','',''),(3453,'107','Hydraulic Performance of Micro Irrigation System under Greenhouse conditions','Shrikant*, Ashoka H.G. and Tipperudramma N.','89 Hydraulic Performance of Micro Irrigation System under Greenhouse conditions Shrikant.pdf','',1,'The research was carried out in Southern parts of Karnataka to determine the hydraulic parameters such as coefficient of manufacturer variation, emission uniformity; uniformity coefficient, application efficiency, and distribution efficiency for all irrigation systems of different makes were found to be excellent at both 0.75 and 1.00 kg/cm2 operating pressure for all irrigation systems of different makes. The distribution of water application and discharges from emitters along the lateral was measured using ASAE criteria. On a sub main, one at the inlet, one at the far end, and two in the middle at the one-third and two-thirds positions will be selected. On each lateral, the four dripper sites are tested: one at the input, one at the submain, and one at the outlet. As a result, there are a total of 16 measurement points. This is accomplished by measuring the flow volume collected in a graduated cylinder over a ten-minute period, and repeating the procedure for different pressure range','Application efficiency, uniformity coefficient, Pressure compensating, distribution efficiency.','','',''),(3454,'107','Soil Loss Estimation through MUSLE Equation using RS and GIS techniques in Neemahosalli sub-watershed','Tipperudramma N.*, Shrikant and Ashoka H.G.','90 Soil Loss Estimation through MUSLE Equation using RS and GIS techniques in Neemahosalli sub-watershed Tipperudramma N.pdf','',1,'The deterioration of soil and water resources in an area can be controlled effectively by adopting watershed approach. The objective of this study is to use the Modified Universal Soil Loss Equation (MUSLE) in conjunction with the Soil Conservation Service Curve Number (SCN-CN) approach to estimate runoff and soil loss using the Kirpich and Williams equations. The study was carried out for Neemahosalli sub-watershed of Kalaburgi district. The entire area of the sub watershed was estimated to be 1869.78 ha, and it is located between 77Â°15ï‚¢53ï‚² -77Â°20ï‚¢01ï‚²E longitude and 17Â°28ï‚¢0ï‚² -17Â°31ï‚¢13ï‚²N latitude. The thematic maps were prepared by using Landsat-8 satellite image in GIS software. The estimated data and parameters used in this study were aggregated and applied to the MUSLE model to estimate annual soil loss. Using Kirpich and Williams\' time of concentration formulas, the data revealed that 92.80 t ha-1yr-1 and 62.92 t ha-1yr-1 soil loss occurred in the Neemahosalli ','MUSLE, GIS, Soil Conservation Service Curve Number (SCN-CN), watershed ','','',''),(3455,'107','Women in Agriculture: An Ecological and Socio-economic Study of Meghalaya, North East India\r\n\r\n','Popiha Bordoloi*','91 Women in Agriculture An Ecological and Socio-economic Study of Meghalaya, North East India Popiha Bordoloi.pdf','',1,'Agriculture is the backbone of socio-economic development of India. Women occupies a major part of the society and contribute a remarkable part of agricultural production system in North East Region of India. Although they performed as farmers, laborers and entrepreneurs in the agrarian sector which is linked to the food security and natural resource management, they suffer inequality and discrimination of rights. Maximum of the times the customary rules and practices prevailing in rural areas creates preventive consequences for women which limits the access to the key resources such as land and credit. So, there is a need to address the significance of involvement of women in agriculture analytically for rural development which leads to economic growth of the region. The present study was conducted at Ri-Bhoi district of Meghalaya during the year 2017 and 2018 through a cross sectional study on 357 women selected randomly to study the status and involvement of women in agriculture for','Women in Agriculture, Socio-economic study, Meghalaya, North East India.','','',''),(3456,'107','Efficacy of Integrated Barrier System for Management of Pink Mealybug Maconellicoccus hirsutus (Green) in Mulberry','P. Kumaresan*, V. Sivaprasad and G.R. Manjunatha','92 Efficacy of Integrated Barrier System for Management of Pink Mealybug Maconellicoccus hirsutus Green in Mulberry V. Sivaprasad.pdf','',1,'Efficacy of bio-pesticide Spinosad 45% SC in combination with barrier system was studied to control the pink mealybug Maconellicoccus hirsutus (Green) infested mulberry (Morus alba L.) variety S-1635. The results revealed that the Percent Infestation (PI) was more in summer and winter seasons i.e., 67.28% & 67.13%, respectively. Likewise, the Percent Damage Index (PDI) exhibited 37.99% in summer followed by winter 31.11%. It was also observed that for the both PI&PDI during rainy season, which were found to be less i.e., 53.65% and 21.11%, respectively. The mean performance of pest reduction % over the seasons revealed that the barrier T3 (Neem cake + Spinosad) showed 85.60 % pest reduction followed by the barrier T2 (Husk ash + Spinosad) (72.70 %) compare to control (Spinosad only) (47.73 %) on infested plants. The gain % of pest reduction obtained for barrier alone was recorded 44.24%, 36.65%, 34.35% and 30.05% for T3, T4, T2 and T1, respectively when compared to control. The re','Pink mealybug, Bio-pesticide, Eco-friendly, Barrier, IPM. ','','',''),(3457,'107','Identification of Potential Maintainer and Restorer Lines from Elite Germplasm of Rice','Vikas Mangal*, M.K. Nautiyal, Leela Bhatt, Nidhi Bhatt and D.C. Baskheti','93 Identification of Potential Maintainer and Restorer Lines from Elite Germplasm of Rice Vikas Mangal.pdf','',1,'The present investigation was conducted for the identification of potential restorers and maintainers from the elite germplasm of rice. Cytoplasmic-genetic male sterility (CGMS) system used predominantly in rice for hybrid seed production which requires three lines A (male sterile), B (maintainer line) and R (restorer line). Sometimes it is very difficult to develop hybrids locally by using imported CMS lines from another country. So identification of effective maintainer and restorer lines from local germplasm is a prerequisite before starting hybrid seed production in rice. In the present investigation, four CMS lines were crossed with 23 genotypes as â€˜testersâ€™ to get 92 F1. The 92 F1 were subjected to spikelet fertility analysis. The spikelet fertility was ranged from 0 per cent (Pant CMS 3A Ã— UPR 3807-1-6 and Pant CMS 3A Ã— UPR 3807-1-1) to 83.61 per cent (IR 58025 A Ã— UPR 3506-1-2). Among the 92 F1, 7 F1 were expressed as fully fertile, 2 complete sterile, and 83 intermediat','Cytoplasmic-genetic male sterility, fully restorer, fully maintainer, heterosis.','','',''),(3458,'107','Assessment of Genetic Diversity using Mahalanobis D2 Statistics in Lentil\r\n (Lens culinaris L. Medikus) \r\n','Harsh Deep*, S.K. Verma, R.K. Panwar and Amit Kumar Gaur','94 Assessment of Genetic Diversity using Mahalanobis D2 Statistics in Lentil Lens culinaris L. Medikus HARSH DEEP.pdf','',1,'Lentil is a valuable pulse crop with a high nutritional value and a high market price all over the world. Crop improvement largely depends on extend of genetic diversity in a crop species. In present investigation genetic divergence was assessed among 68 lentil genotypes consisting of released varieties and advanced breeding lines using Mahalanobisâ€™s D2 analysis. Based on D2 values genotypes were grouped into nine clusters. Most of the released varieties were placed in cluster I that possessed 15 genotypes, which implies that they share common parentage and have similar agromorphological features. Inter cluster distance was maximum between cluster VII and IX followed by cluster V and VII. It was found that the single genotype (PL406) present in cluster IX was highly diverse from other genotypes as inter cluster distance between cluster IX and most of the other cluster was relatively high.Thus, hybridization among these genotypes can generate desirable transgressive segregants. The ch','Genetic divergence, Lentil, D2 analysis, cluster distance','','',''),(3459,'107','Species â€“ Specific Variation in the Structure of Male Genitalia of Ladybird Beetles (Coccinellidae: Coleoptera)','Neethu Roy D.*, Uma Maheswari T., Sridevi G. and Raghavender B.','95 Species â€“ Specific Variation in the Structure of Male Genitalia of Ladybird Beetles Coccinellidae Coleoptera Neethu Roy D.pdf','',1,'Present observations made on morphology of male genitalia of ladybird beetles (Coccinellidae: Coleoptera) belonging to 12 different species (Brumoides suturalis, Chilocorus nigrita, Anegleis cardoni, Cheilomenes sexmaculata, Coccinella transversalis, Harmonia octamaculata, Hippodamia variegata, Illies cincta, Micraspis discolor, Propylea dissecta, Henosepilachna vigintioctopunctata and Scymnus nubilus) from four subfamilies (Coccinellinae, Chilocorinae, Scymninae and Epilachninae) under stereozoom binocular microscope revealed that the variation in structure and size of genitalia which are species specific along with the morphometrics. Shape of the siphonal capsule, basal or median lobe being symmetrical or asymmetrical, shape of the parameres, length of the parameres in comparison to median lobe and shape of the median lobe which showed variation were recognized as important taxonomic signs of the male genitalia. The detailed diagnostic description of male genitalia were provided a','Ladybird beetles, Coccinellidae, Male genitalia, Taxonomy, PJTSAU.','','',''),(3460,'107','Evaluation of Different Bioagents, Botanicals Extracts and Chemical Fungicides against Black Scurf of Potato caused by Rhizoctonia solani','Ram Pal Verma*, Ved Ratan, Deepak Baboo, Mukul Kumar and Dushyant Kumar','96 Evaluation of Different Bioagents, Botanicals Extracts and Chemical Fungicides against Black Scurf of Potato caused by Rhizoctonia solani Rampal Verma.pdf','',1,'Potato is commonly known as disease oriented problematic crop throughout the world. Diseases are one of the yield and quality reducing factors, which causes low yield of potato. Potato production is threatened by many factors in which diseases have maximum importance, which are caused due to Nematodes, Fungi, Bacteria, viruses etc. Black scurf reduce tuber quality, marketability and cause a serious disease of potato worldwide. In India responsible for 10-25% yield loss, yield losses may reached up to 50% in severely affecting potato crops. From the present studies results revealed that the minimum radial growth 29.2 mm and maximum growth inhibition 67.55 % of fungus was recorded in T1-(Trichoderma harzianum) followed by 34.2 mm and 62.00 % in T2-(Trichoderma viride) while, maximum radial growth 48.5 mm and minimum growth inhibition 46.11 % of fungus was recorded in T3- (Pseudomonas fluoescens) over control 90 mm at 6 DAI. Minimum radial growth 33.5 mm and maximum growth inhibition 62.','Potato, black scurf, bioagents, botanicals, fungicides and Inhibition percent.','','',''),(3461,'107','Heterosis, Residual Heterosis and Inbreeding Depression Study in Tomato [Solanum lycopersicum (L.)]','Hiteksha I. Damor*, Kalyanrao Patil, Sushmita Pusarla, Shiwani and Priyanka Pandya','97 Heterosis, Residual Heterosis and Inbreeding Depression Study in Tomato [Solanum lycopersicum L.] Hiteksha I. Damor.pdf','',1,'Tomato is a â€˜protective foodâ€™ since it is rich in minerals, vitamins, antioxidants and organic acids, along with many nutraceutical benefits. It is well known for its nutraceutical and chemical content which strengthens immune systems and protect against certain diseases. For this reason, there has been recent emphasis on breeding cultivars with nutraceutical value combined with yield parameters. Although, tomato breeding programs are focused mainly on improving fruit yield as well as processing quality traits. One of the most important ways to improve yield and quality traits is heterosis, which is hybrid vigor that results in an improvement in fruit yield with early development and superior quality. Heterosis is a natural phenomenon whereby hybrid offspring of genetically diverse individuals exhibit improved physical and functional characteristics relative to their parents. The purpose of the present study is to obtain genetic information about the extent of hybrid vigour and inb','Generation mean analysis, Hybrid vigor, Heterobeltiosis, Residual heterosis, Inbreeding depression.','','',''),(3462,'107','Investigation of Liquid Formulation of Trichoderma asperellum against Fusarium Wilt of Chickpea','S.S. Patil*, D.D. Guldekar, S.R. Potdukhe and H.M. Khobragade','98 Investigation of Liquid Formulation of Trichoderma asperellum Against Fusarium Wilt of Chickpea Supriya Patil.pdf','',1,'An investigation was undertaken to test the effect of liquid formulation of Trichoderma asperellum against Fusarium wilt of chickpea. Oil based formulation delivers organism in a physiologically dormant state and does not encourage the growth of contaminants during storage. Paraffin oil, soybean oil and groundnut oil were used as carrier material for oil based liquid formulation of Trichoderma asperellum. The population density of T. asperellum found in paraffin oil was 28.67 Ã— 108 CFU/ml at 30 days whereas at 180 days it was 18.00 Ã— 108 CFU/ml. Paraffin oil was found significantly superior over soybean oil and groundnut oil. The effect on percent growth inhibition of Fusarium oxysporum f. sp. ciceri was 74.44 percent. Efficacy of liquid formulation on growth parameter of chickpea revealed that paraffin oil based formulation of T. asperellum with combined seed treatment and soil application effectively increased the germination percentage (92.50%, 91.67%), shoot length (38cm, 32.16cm','Trichoderma asperellum, Liquid Formulations, Paraffin Oil, Fusarium Wilt, Chickpea.','','',''),(3463,'107','Seed Yield of Jute as Influenced by Plant Densities and Topping Practices','J. Rakesh*, M Sree Rekha and Ch Sujani Rao','99 Seed Yield of Jute as Influenced by Plant Densities and Topping Practices J. Rakesh.pdf','',1,'Seed production in jute can be enhanced by adopting suitable agro-techniques. Among the various agro-techniques, plant density is an important yield contributing factor which can be changed to obtain higher yield in jute. Another important factor is topping which is (clipping of apical buds). An experiment was conducted during kharif, 2019 at Agricultural College Farm, Bapatla with three plant densities [1.66 lakh plants ha-1 (D1), 2.2 lakh plants ha-1 (D2) and 83,333 plants ha-1 (D3)] and four topping practices [T1 (No topping), T2 (topping at 30 DAS), T3 (topping at 45 DAS) and T4 (topping at 60 DAS)] in a randomized block design with factorial concept using JRO 524 (Navin) variety of jute in three replications. Results indicated that maximum leaf area index (LAI) and light interception of jute was obtained with 2,22,222 plants ha-1 (D2) and with no topping practice (T1) which was on par with 1,66,666 plants ha-1 (D1) and was significantly superior over other plant density of 83,333','Jute, Plant density, Topping practices, Leaf area index,light interception and Canopy Temperature.','','',''),(3464,'107','Performance of Global Trade of Indian Silk in Post-Liberalization Era','Halagundegowda G. R.*, Kumaresan P., Sathish Gowda C.S., Mohan Kumar T. L., Muttanna and Gulzar Ahmad Khan','100 Performance of Global Trade of Indian Silk in Post-Liberalization Era Halagundegowda G.R.pdf','',1,'This paper examines the growth, instability and concentration of major silk goods exported from India. The time series data on export earnings of Indian silk goods from 1990-91 to 2020-21 were used for computation of growth, instability and concentration. The study period was divided into two parts representing pre-liberalization (1990-2004) and post-liberalization (2005-2020) periods in global T&C trade. The results indicate that the natural silk yarn, raw silk, fabrics and made ups, readymade garments recorded positive growth rates during the pre-liberalization period. But the growth of majority of silk goods turned to negative during the post-liberalization period. Silk wastes had the highest instability in export earnings followed by natural silk yarn and raw silk. The finished goods such as fabrics and made-ups, readymade garments and silk carpets had relatively less instability in the export earnings during the pre-liberalization period. The aggregate instability index for the po','Growth, Instability, Concentration, Hefindhal index, Herschman index, Diversity Measures.','','',''),(3465,'107','Possible Shift in Distribution Range of Himalayan Vulture viz a viz of Future Bioclimatic Variables','Sachin Kumar* and Tejdeep Kaur Kler','101 Possible Shift in Distribution Range of Himalayan Vulture viz a viz of Future Bioclimatic Variables Sachin Kumar.pdf','',1,'Himalayan Vulture (Gyps himalayensis Hume, 1869) has been categorized under the near-threatened list by IUCN. The current investigation was done to predict the present and future species distribution range under various bioclimatic variables using MaxEnt modelling in the Himalayan range of Indian subcontinent. Present study provides preliminary information about the present and future distribution range of G. himalayensis. The study reveals that the suitable distribution range for G. himalayensis will increase in near future i.e. 2021-40 while the highly suitable range will decrease slightly from 2041-60 with overall increase towards the north-eastern Himalayas. The region already has rich biodiversity and also facing elevation range shifts by many other species due to climate warming, therefore, the coming finest hours need a proactive approach to conserve the declining population of G. himalayensis by developing an effective conservation strategy by using stacked species distribution','G. himalayensis, Bioclimatic Variables, MaxEnt, Distribution Range shift, Indian subcontinent. ','','',''),(3466,'107','Impact of Climate on Spot blotch of Wheat caused by Bipolaris sorokiniana (Sacc.) Shoemaker in Eastern Uttar Pradesh','Dheeraj Kumar Singh and Satyendra Nath Singh','102 Impact of Climate on Spot blotch of Wheat caused by Bipolaris sorokiniana (Sacc.) Shoemaker in Eastern Uttar Pradesh Dheeraj Kumar Singh.pdf','',1,'A Survey was being conducted in ten districts of Uttar Pradesh namely Ghazipur, Balia, Mirzapur, Mau, Azamgargh, Jaunpur, Varanasi, Gorakhpur, Deveria and Basti which were carried out during Rabi 2018-2019 and 2019-2020 to know the incidence and severity of foliar blight especially spot blotch disease of wheat caused by Bipolaris sorokiniana. Survey work was done in first and third week of March during both the years. As it is well known that the month of March is suitable period for survey work because during this month humidity and temperature favors the foliar blight incidence. The highest incidence of foliar blight was noted in district Gazipur (75.52 per cent) followed by Balia (73.65 per cent), Mirzapur (72.67 per cent), Mau (68.23 per cent), Azamgarh (60.38 per cent), Jaunpur (59.60 per cent), Vanarasi (58.18 per cent), Gorakhpur (57.87 per cent), Deveria (56.74 per cent) and Basti (56.55 per cent) respectively during first year (2018-19) of study. Lowest incidence was recorded ','Incidence, Foliar, Blotch, Survey, Severity and Susceptible','','',''),(3467,'107','Genetic Variability and Correlation Coefficient Analysis for Yield and Grain Quality Traits in (F8 Generation) of Elite Upland Rice (Oryza sativa L.) Germplasm','Mondem Jyothi Yadav* and Gabriyal M. Lal','103 Genetic Variability and Correlation Coefficient Analysis for Yield and Grain Quality Traits in _F8 Generation_ of Elite Upland Rice Oryza sativa L. Germplasm Mondem Jyothi Yadav.pdf','',1,'The success of most crop improvement programs largely depends upon genetic variability and heritability and the genetic advance of desired traits. Breeders can use the degree and kind of genetic variability to establish the selection criteria and breeding plans to apply for improvement. Therefore, this research aimed to identify potential genotypes and suitable traits of upland rice germplasm for breeding programs. An experiment with 26 upland rice germplasm was done to determine the extent of genetic variability and to conduct a correlation analysis during Kharif-2020. All genotypes exhibited a wide and significant variation for 14 traits. The highest GCV and PCV was recorded for the grain yield per plant followed by biological yield per plant. The high heritability coupled with high genetic advance was exhibited by the number of tillers per plant and number of panicles per plant. Correlation studies revealed that grain yield per plant at genotypic and phenotypic levels was positively','Variability, broad-sense heritability, genetic advance, correlation coefficient, upland rice.','','',''),(3468,'107','Performance of Herbicides on Weeds and Productivity of Transplanted Rice in Central Part of India ','Anay K. Rawat*, Shri Rammu Lodhi, Ashish Tiwari and Sidarth Nayak','104 Performance of Herbicides on Weeds and Productivity of Transplanted Rice in Central Part of India Anay K Rawat.pdf','',1,'Enhancement of rice yield with more profit is major concern among scientists and round the clock efforts are being made to alleviate this situation. Competition between crop and weed is just struggle for nutrients, space, light and water resulted in poor yield. This competition not only affects yield but also increase cost of cultivation resulting in low profit over investment. Weed is considered one of the yield reducing factor. An experiment was conducted to evaluate a potent low dose herbicidal combination for broad spectrum weed management in transplanted rice during kharif 2015 at Jawaharlal Nehru Krishi Vishwa Vidyalaya, (JNKVV), Jabalpur (M.P.) using randomized block design (RBD) with seven treatments and four replications. Critical parameters -Weed population (No. m-2), Weed dry weight (g m-2), Weed control efficiency (WCE, %) and weed index (WI, %) were observed to see the efficacy of applied chemicals.\r\nMixed application of weedicides Bensulfuron methyl 60 g with pretilachlo','Bensulfuron-methyl, herbicide mixture, pretilachlor, transplanted rice, weed, yield.','','',''),(3469,'107','Effect of STCR based Nutrient Management on Quantity- Intensity Relationship of Potassium in Rice based Cropping Systems of Indo Gangetic Plains','Shailja Kumari, Priyanka Kumari*, Ragini Kumari, Rajeev Padbhushan, Anshuman Kohli3, Varsha Kumari, Kirti Kumari and Gopal Kumar','105 Effect of STCR based Nutrient Management on Quantity- Intensity Relationship of Potassium in Rice based Cropping Systems of Indo Gangetic Plains Priyanka Kumari.pdf','',1,'The present investigation examined different parameters of Quantity-Intensity (Q/I) relationship from study conducted during kharif, 2019 in Bihar Agricultural University, Sabour, Bhagalpur. The study was undertaken to check the effect of different approaches of fertilizer application under targeted yield based soil test crop response (STCR) method on Q/I relationship of potassium (K) under rice based cropping systems. Soil K fertility is often judged on the basis of K extraction by the method of neutral normal Ammonium acetate which has been unsuccessful in indicating cropping induced changes in soil. Therefore, Q/I relationship of K proves to be a better indication of K supplying power of soil. The hypothesis of present study was to know the actual K supplying power of the soil so that better estimation of K status could be made. For the present study, soil samples (0-15 cm) were collected from ongoing STCR experimental plots receiving nine different treatments which comprised of con','Potassium, Quantity- Intensity (Q/I), soil test crop response (STCR), Integrated Plant Nutrient System (IPNS), randomized block design, potential buffering capacity.','','',''),(3470,'107','Impact of Front Line Demonstration on Integrated Crop Management (ICM) in Turmeric in Adilabad district of Telangana','M. Sunil Kumar*, Y. Praveen Kumar, A. Posadri, A. Ramadevi, M. Raghuveer and G. Shivacharan','106 Impact of Front Line Demonstration on Integrated Crop Management _ICM_ in Turmeric in Adilabad district of Telangana Sunil Kumar.pdf','',1,'The KVK, Adilabad had under taken the study to popularize the Integrated Crop Management (ICM) in Turmeric for efficient use of natural resources and minimizing the pest and disease for harvesting bumper yields and income. Cultivating turmeric by conventional flat bed method in the region leads to poor drainage, more pest and disease incidence and recording low yields. In order to disseminate the improved production technologies for reaping higher returns from turmeric cultivation conducted Front Line Demonstrations during 2019-20 to 2020-21 in different villages of Adilabad district of Telangana. The proven extension strategic approaches (focused group discussion, method demonstration, off and on campus training programmes, field visits, exposure visits) and need based package of practices (timely sowing, seed treatment, raised bed dimensions, different plant protection measures etc.) resulted higher yield in demonstrations (74.67qha-1 ) over check (56.20qha-1). There is an average ','Turmeric, Raised bed cultivation, black cotton soils, drainage, Yield, Economics.','','',''),(3471,'107','Weed and Nutrient Dynamics in Maize as Influenced by different Weed Management Practices','Kommireddy Poojitha*, M.T. Sanjay and K.N. Kalyana Murthy','107 Weed and Nutrient Dynamics in Maize as Influenced by Different Weed Management Practices Kommireddy Poojitha.pdf','',1,'The steadily increasing cost of manual weeding has increased the need for chemical weed control and the main concern is in finding a better herbicide that can outperform even manual weeding. A field study conducted during Kharif 2017 on the sandy loam soil of Bangalore to study the weed dynamics, maize yield, and nutrient uptake under different post-emergence herbicide treatments. Significantly lower density and dry matter of weeds was recorded with passing cycle weeder followed by hand weeding at 20 and 35 DAS followed by ready mix application of topramezone + dimethanamid-p at 570 g ha-1 at 20 DAS and tembotrione at 120 g ha-1 + stefesmero adjuvant at 2 ml L-1 of water at 20 DAS. Passing cycle weeder followed by hand weeding at 20 and 35 DAS recorded the lowest uptake of N, P and K by weeds and the highest uptake of N, P and K by maize crop followed by ready-mix application of topramezone + dimethanamid-p at 570 g ha-1 at 20 DAS and tembotrione at 120 g ha-1 + stefesmero adjuvant at ','Topramezone, Tembotrione, Dimethanamid-p, Nutrient dynamics and Nutrient uptake.','','',''),(3472,'107','Assessment of Performance of Rice Genotypes for Quality Traits','Prasad Vadigeri, J. R. Diwan*, K. Mahantashivayogayya, Vikas Kulkarni and D. Pramesh','108 Assessment of Performance of Rice Genotypes for Quality Traits J. R. Diwan.pdf','',1,'The quality of the rice grain is very important from the consumer point of view as it is food crop. Genetic variability of 4 quality parameters in a set of 12 medium slender rice genotypes were evaluated at the Plant Molecular Biology Laboratory, Department of Genetics and Plant Breeding, College of Agriculture, University of Agricultural Sciences, Raichur. Grain length, grain width and grain L:B ratio revealed low GCV, PCV, and high heritability with low genetic advance, according to variability studies. Quality parameters such as gel consistency and gelatinization temperature showed a higher value of GCV and PCV. The quality parameters like gel consistency, gelatinization temperature and amylose content exhibited high heritability in combination with a high GAM. ','Variability, genotypic coefficient of variance, phenotypic coefficient of variance, genetic advance, amylose content','','',''),(3473,'107','Multivariate Analysis in Diverse Rice (Oryza sativa L.) Genotypes under Reproductive Stage Drought Stress','Mounika Korada, S.K. Singh, A.K. Singh, Amrutlal Khaire, Sonali Vijay Habde, Prasanta Kumar Majhi and D.K. Singh','109 Multivariate Analysis in Diverse Rice _Oryza sativa L._ Genotypes under Reproductive Stage Drought Stress Mounika Korada.pdf','',1,'The use of multivariate analyses to determine the nature and magnitude of genetic divergence, to identify potential parents for hybridisation, to examine the variation explained by each trait and to estimate the relative contribution of different traits governing total variability is a common practice in plant breeding activities. A study was conducted with set of 46 rice genotypes at Banaras Hindu University during Kharif-2018 under drought stress. A significant variation has been explained by the 46 genotypes for all the traits included in the study and further analysis using D2 statistic revealed considerable amount of diversity in the material and grouped them into five clusters based on their performance with cluster I being the largest with 26 genotypes consisting mostly of high yielding rice varieties with poor performance under drought stress. The maximum inter cluster distance was observed between clusters II and III followed by clusters I and V indicating wider genetic diver','Clusters, Drought, Genetic distance, Multivariate analysis, Principal Components, Rice.','','',''),(3474,'107','Bio-efficacy of Pseudomonas fluorescens 1.75% WP (Bio Cure-B) as a bio-control agent against early blight (Alternaria solani) disease of tomato under field condition','R. Das','110 Bio-efficacy of Pseudomonas fluorescens 1.75 WP Bio Cure-B as a bio-control agent against early blight _Alternaria solani disease of tomato under field condition R. DAS.pdf','',1,'Tomato early leaf blight, caused by Alternaria solani, is one of the most destructive diseases, causing significant losses in tomato production. In the absence of resistant cultivars, the treatment of tomato early blight disease has mainly relied on the use of chemical fungicides. In disease management, the use of biological control agents has been recognised as a viable alternative to chemicals fungicides. Rhizobacteria that promote plant growth are important in the control of plant diseases. Pseudomonads have long been known to promote plant growth while also delaying disease onset. The current study looked at the effects of Pseudomonas fluorescens on tomato early blight disease and the effect on tomato plant yield components. The field experiment was set up in a randomized block design with seven treatments and three replications at the Regional Research Sub-Station (R & L Zone), Bidhan Chandra Krishi Viswavidyalaya, Sekhampur, Birbhum, West Bengal, India, during Rabi, 2016-17 and R','Biological control, early blight, Pseudomonas fluorescens, tomato.','','',''),(3475,'107','Influence of Moisture Stress and Dates of Sowing on the Performance of Heat Tolerant Maize Genotypes','B.N. Shwetha*, B.M. Chittapur, P.H. Kuchanur, B.G. Koppalkar, A.S. Halepyati, Mahadevaswamy and H. Veeresh','111 Influence of Moisture Stress and Dates of Sowing on the Performance of Heat Tolerant Maize Genotypes B.N. Shwetha.pdf','',1,'Maize production is strongly affected by changing climate particularly the rainfall which is either delayed and/or comprised of frequent dry spells and heavy showers during kharif season. However, there is no escape from these vagaries of mansoon. And therefore, production practices like adjusting sowing time and use of tolerant cultivars which helpful in addressing these issues are to be employed for sustained production. To derive some of these option specially for kharif season a field experiment was formulated to know the effect of extended sowing (mid June, July and August) and periodic dry spells of 20 days (20-40, 40-60, 60-80 and 80-100 DAS) on heat tolerant maize genotypes (RCRMH 2, RCRMH 3 and RCRMH 4) in TBP irrigation command in the semi arid tropics of India during rainy season. In the present study July sowing is relatively stress free hence crop recorded higher RWC (76.88% and 56.39%), ASI (2.65 days), growth and yield parameters and consequently grain yield (5610 kg ha-','Rainy season, Dates of sowing, Moisture stress, Heat tolerant genotypes, Growth and yield.','','',''),(3476,'107','Development of Grape Seed Powder Incorporated Noodles for Health Benefits','Muruli N.V.*, S. Kanchana, G. Hemalatha, T. Umamaheswari and K. Prabhakaran','112 Development of Grape Seed Powder Incorporated Noodles for Health Benefits Muruli N.V.pdf','',1,'The study was designed to develop grape seed powder incorporated noodles. Efforts was made to the prepare, in the noodles having the different combination of whole wheat flour (WWF), and for mixing the different propositions, the grape seed powder was prepared viz.,T0-100% WWF, T1-98%+2%, T2-96%+4%, T3-94%+6%, T4-92%+8%, T5-90%+10%. The prepared grape seed noodles were subjected to organoleptic and nutritional quality analysis. The results revealed that noodles with 6% incorporation of grape seed powder (T3) was organoleptically colour, taste secured maximum score flavor and overall accessibility compared to all other samples and found to contain moisture (1.62%), ash (1.12%), protein (6.2%), fat (0.48%), crude fiber (3.32%) and carbohydrate (64.21%). Therefore T3 was more accessibility productso for that it is the optimized treatment than others.','Grape seed, noodles, chemical properties, whole wheat flour.','','',''),(3477,'76','In Silico Analysis of the Functional and Structural Impact of SNPs in the CD46 Gene','Chhaya Bawa','8 In Silico Analysis of the Functional and Structural Impact of SNPs in the CD46 Gene Chhaya Bawa.pdf','',1,'Innate immunity plays a significant role in natural immune response. Complement system is a critical player in innate immunity and tightly regulated by various regulatory components. The present study was undertaken to predict deleterious/damaging SNPs using in silico analysis of CD 46 gene. Various tools like SIFT, PROVEAN, SNAP2, PredictSNP, I-mutant and Consurf were used for in silico analysis. CD46 study revealed 263 coding snSNPs. The SIFT sequence tool predicted a total of 85 variants, PROVEAN predicted 86 nsSNPs (out of 263) as deleterious and SNAP2 server predicted 115 variants to be effective in influencing the protein function. I mutant was used to calculate the free energy change value and reliability index to predict the functional deviations in proteins. The I-mutant revealed 37 deleterious mutations. Consurf results predicted conservation of residues in protein sites. While active site prediction analysis revealed 11 amino acid residues in chain B and 32 in D as active si','CD46, Complement system, In silico Analysis, nsSNPs','','',''),(3478,'107','A Study of Occupational Stress with its Coping Mechanism among the Teaching Community of RPCAU, Pusa','Dipankar Saikia*, Ashok K. Singh, Nirala Kumar and Bidyut P. Gogoi','113 A Study of Occupational Stress with its Coping Mechanism among the Teaching Community of RPCAU, Pusa Dipankar Saikia.pdf','',1,'The study examined the extent of occupational stress along with outcome of occupational stress with its coping mechanism of teachers working at RPCAU, Pusa. For the purpose one hundred and sixty teachers from nine constituent colleges were selected, by using multistage purposive sampling technique and administered with an Occupational Stress Index. In order to assess the outcome of occupational stress and coping mechanism among the teachers, the checklist used by Kalpana (2018) was adopted. The statistical techniques employed were frequency, percentage, mean and standard deviation (SD) and the obtained results were analyzed accordingly. The results revealed that majority (39.37%) of teachers were working with medium level of occupational stress. Also, it is evident from the findings that majority (43.80%) of the Assistant Professor were found to had high level of occupational stress while majority of Associate Professors and Professor had low level of occupational stress. The result fu','Occupational Stress, Teacher, Outcome and Coping Mechanism. ','','',''),(3479,'107','Eco-friendly Wilt Management caused by Fusarium solani in Cluster bean','Poonam Yadav, R.R. Ahir, Parvesh Kumar, Lokesh Yadav and Pinki Devi Yadav','114 Eco-friendly Wilt Management caused by Fusarium solani in the Clusterbean POONAM YADAV.pdf','',1,'Ecofriendly compatible methods have proliferated in recent years in disease control. This review of the literature reveals that limited information is available on the natural management of the disease by bioagents, botanicals and plant resistance. The use of chemicals can cause harm to human health and is known to increase environmental pollution. To overcome this negative impact, other ways to manage Fusarium solani wilt bean collection are required. These practises reduce the density and activity of inoculums. Integration of bioagents, botanicals and plant resistance efficacy can be further improved and more long lasting. So bioagents, botanicals have been used to reduce losses and costs effectively for farmers due to deadly bacteria. Resistance to host plants offers the greatest potential.','Bioagents, Botanicals, Ecofriendly, Fusarium solani, Host Resistance.','','',''),(3480,'107','Dissection of Genetic Variability, Correlation and Path Analysis of Seed Yield and Yield Contributing Traits in Chickpea (Cicer arietinum L.) and their Implication in Selection','Manoranjan Biswal*, R.S. Solanki, Shailendra Sagar Prajapat, R. Shiv Rama Krishnan and Anita Babbar','115 Dissection of Genetic Variability, Correlation and Path Analysis of Seed Yield and Yield Contributing Traits in Chickpea _Cicer arietinum L. and their Implication in Selection Manoranjan Biswal.pdf','',1,'The present experiment was conducted at Seed Breeding Farm, Jawaharlal Nehru Krishi Vishwa Vidyalaya, Jabalpur during Rabi 2019-20 and 2020-2021. The experimental materials consisted 30 advanced breeding lines of desi chickpea laid out in Randomized Complete Block Design with three replications. The analysis of variance showed genotypes were highly significant for all the traits suggesting presence of considerable amount of variation for all the traits among the genotypes suggesting genotypes evaluated in this present study has broad genetic base. The phenotypic coefficient of variation was higher than the genotypic coefficient of variation for all the traits. The highest genotypic and phenotypic coefficient of variation was noted for the trait; biological yield per plant. High heritability along with high genetic advance as % of mean were detected for seed yield per plant, biological yield per plant, number of effective pods per plant, total number of pods per plant, number of seeds p','Chickpea, Correlation, Path analysis, Heritability, Genetic advance, Seed yield','','',''),(3481,'107','Genetic Variability and Divergence Studies for Yield and its related traits in Rice (Oryza sativa L.)','S.K. Singh, Manoj Kumar S.C., Mounika Korada*, Amrutlal Khaire, Prasanta Kumar Majhi, D.K. Singh and Jayasudha S.','116 Genetic Variability and Divergence Studies for Yield and its related traits in Rice Oryza sativa L. Mounika Korada.pdf','',1,'The amount of genetic variability present in crop germplasm and the knowledge of its nature and magnitude is very important before starting any crop improvement program. In this view, fifty-five rice genotypes were evaluated for studying the genetic parameters (genetic variability, heritability and genetic advance as percent of mean) and genetic divergence for yield contributing characters at three different locations in Eastern Uttar Pradesh, India. The study was conducted during Kharif 2020 using Alpha lattice design. The data were collected on 15 quantitative traits. The combined ANOVA revealed the presence of significant variability in experimental material for all the traits under study across all three locations. High GCV and PCV were recorded for traits like grain yield per plot, biomass and grain yield per hectare. High heritability with high genetic advance as percent of mean was reported for plant height, number of productive tillers per plant, filled grains per panicle, grai','Genetic Divergence, Heritability, Mahalanobisâ€™ D2, Rice, Variability.','','',''),(3482,'107','Murraya koenigii as Potential Substitute of Chemical Fungicides in Controlling Plant Diseases','Ranjana Juwantha*, Jalaj Saxena, Mohit Singh Bisht, Jyoti Yadav and Pooja Kapoor','117 Murraya koenigii as Potential Substitute of Chemical Fungicides in Controlling Plant Diseases Ranjana Juwantha.pdf','',1,'The need for a better plant disease control approach has always been felt due to the dangerous effects of chemical control measures. Plant extracts have antifungal properties, which could be used to treat plant diseases in a non-chemical, environmentally benign way. In the presented study methanolic leaf extract of Murraya koenigii was screened and evaluated for antifungal activity against six forest nursery pathogens, including A. alternata, F. oxysporum, F. solani, Pestalotiopsis sp., Macrophomina sp., and Phomopsis sp. at different concentrations by applying poison food technique. Infected leaf and root samples of Melia dubia (Malabar Neem), Azadirachta indica (Neem) Quercus leucotrichophora (Banj oak) and Saraca indica (Ashoka) were used to isolate these six phytopathogenic fungus. Methanolic leaf extract of Murraya koenigii along with two systemic (Benomyl and Carbendazim) and two non-systemic (Mancozeb and Copper-oxy-chloride) fungicides were evaluated at 0.5 percent, 1 percent, ','Plant disease control, chemical control, antifungal activity, leaf extract, fungicide.','','',''),(3483,'107','A Study on the Reasons of Academic Procrastination among College Students','Rashmi Rekha Gohain* and Sampreety Gogoi','118 A Study on the Reasons of Academic Procrastination among College Students Rashmi Rekha Gohain.pdf','',1,'Academic procrastination is often seen among college students at each academic level. It includes underestimating the time needed to complete an academic task, excuses for poor performance in a task, missing deadlines to important tasks like submission of assignments, projects, preparation for exams, etc. Most students were not aware of their postponing behavior and unintentionally delay the task. Since the college students are packed with different academic tasks that are needed to be accomplished within the designated time frame, but students fail to complete their tasks on time due to many reasons such as the influence of technology, use of social media, peer pressure, and overload of work, etc. The present study was an attempt to study the academic procrastination among College students of Jorhat, Assam, India in the year 2020. The study was conducted on 199 numbers of undergraduate students from Ist year, IInd year, IIIrd year and IVth year selected with the help of Solvinâ€™s for','Academic procrastination, Reasons, College students.','','',''),(3484,'107','Perceived Problem and Suggestion strategies of ITK and Improved Grain Storage System','Nirala Kumar*, Ashok K. Singh, Dipankar Saikia and Manisha Barman','119 Perceived Problem and Suggestion strategies of ITK and Improved Grain Storage System Nirala Kumar.pdf','',1,'To preserve the quality of grain after harvest for its viability and consistent supply of grain in order to get advantage of higher prices, as practiced by farmers, government, and industry, storage system got the paramount importance. Keeping this in view, this study was made to explore the problem and suggested strategies of the ITK and improved grain storage system in Bihar in order to safeguard the losses of food grains. The total 320 farmers were participated in the study consisting (160) beneficiary and (160) non- beneficiary respondents selected from four district, eight blocks and eight villages of Bihar state through purposive sampling procedure. During the study, important suggestions were obtained by selected farmers regarding ITKs and improved storage systems. With regard to the ITKs storage system non- beneficiaries respondents were emphasized that there was an urgent need for creating awareness among the farming community regarding the advantages as well as disadvantages ','Grain storage, ITKs/ Improved storage system.','','',''),(3485,'107','Insect pests, Pesticide use and Usage Pattern in Beetroot Crop Cultivated\r\n in Tamil Nadu\r\n','P. Naveen Prakash, A. Suganthi*, K. Bhuvaneswari and M. Senthil Kumar','120 Insect pests, Pesticide use and Usage Pattern in Beetroot Crop Cultivated Naveen Prakash.pdf','',1,'A detailed purposive random survey was conducted to understand the farmers behavior on pesticide use and usage pattern in four major beetroot growing districts of Tamil Nadu, India. Beet leaf miner, cut worm, beet leafhopper, green peach aphid and flea beetle were found to infest beetroot crop among which beet leaf miner caused more damage (52.5%). The most commonly used insecticides for leaf miner and other sucking pest management were thiamethoxam 12.6 + lambda cyhalothrin 9.5ZC, profenofos 50EC, quinalphos 25EC, fenvalerate 20EC and cypermethrin 25EC. The source of information for farmers on pesticide recommendations are majorly pesticide retailers (51.25%). A double field experiment conducted in farmerâ€™s field for evaluating the insecticides against leaf miner revealed that cyantraniliprole 10.26 OD @ 60ga.i.ha-1 and thiamethoxam + lambdacyhalothrin 9.5ZC@ 27.5ga.i.ha-1 were effective in reducing leaf miner damage. Knowledge level of farmers on pesticide use and usage pattern and','Beetroot, Survey, Pesticide, Cyantraniliprole, Leaf miner, Bio-efficacy.','','',''),(3486,'107','Bio-efficacy of Thiophanate methyl 70% WP against Blast, Sheath rot and Grain Discoloration diseases of Paddy','Gowdar, S. B., Sujay Hurali, Ashwini, R., Mastan Reddy, B. G. and Mahanthashivayogayya, H.','121 Bio-efficacy of Thiophanate methyl 70 WP against Blast, Sheath rot and Grain Discoloration diseases of Paddy Ashwini.pdf','',1,'Paddy is an important food crop of the world including India. Under field condition, the productivity of rice is affected by many biotic and abiotic factors. Among the different biotic constraints, diseases caused by fungal pathogens such as blast and sheath rot, grain discoloration are more frequent and ferocious disease in irrigated rice of both temperate and subtropical areas and which cause damage at all stages of crop growth. Blast, sheath rot and grain discoloration are major constrain of paddy production reported to cause extensive damage in crop production. An experiment was conducted to assess the Bio-efficacy of Thiophanate methyl 70% WP against blast, sheath rot and grain discoloration diseases of Paddy at ARS, Gangavathi. Results revealed that, among the various treatments evaluated, Thiophanate methyl 70% WP @ 1143 g/ha (T3) and Thiophanate methyl 70% WP @ 857 g/ha (T2) were found to be the best treatments to control blast, sheath rot and grain discoloration during both th','Paddy, Blast, Sheath rot, Grain discoloration, bio efficacy, Thiophanate methyl 70 % WP.','','',''),(3487,'107','Evaluation of different Methods of Substrate Preparation for Cultivation of Calocybe indica','Dibakar Panda* and Mohan Kumar Biswas','122 Evaluation of Different Methods of Substrate Preparation for Cultivation of Calocybe indica Dibakar Panda.pdf','',1,'Now a days mushroom has become an important alternative to non-veg food. Indian climate especially climate of West Bengal is favourable for cultivation of mushroom by using agricultural wastes. Choosing the best substrate method for bed preparation is of great importance in the efficient cultivation of mushrooms. Thus, the present study has been designed to evaluate the suitable method of bed preparation of straw substrate for generating better yield of milky mushroom. It was observed that the substrate, chopped paddy straw sterilized with hot water resulted into the maximum yield (1193.30g) followed by chopped paddy straw treated with steam sterilization (1060.00g) and chopped paddy straw treated with chemicals, Formalin and Bavistin (1028.30g). Also, the maximum biological efficiency was observed on the substrate chopped paddy straw treated with hot water (119.3%) followed by chopped paddy straw treated with steam sterilization (106.0%) and chopped paddy straw treated with chemicals ',' Biological Efficiency, Formalin, Hot Water, Milky Mushroom, Sterilization.\r\n','','',''),(3488,'107','Water Deficit Effects on Proline, Cell Wall Elasticity and Osmotic Potential among seven Avena species at Vegetative and Flowering stages ','H. C. Pandey*, M. J. Baig and Nilamani Dikshit','123 Water Deficit Effects on Proline, Cell Wall Elasticity and Osmotic Potential among seven Avena species at vegetative and flowering stages Harish C. Pandey.pdf','',1,'This paper has concentrated to quantify the effect of water limitation in Avena species at different phenophases in terms of plant water relations and osmotic adjustment responses triggered by drought stress. Relative Water content (RWC) decreased in all the species when the drought period progressed in subsequent days after with-holding water supply. At vegetative stage all the seven species of Avena grouped under three categories in response to the extent of moisture stress. The group one comprised of three species viz. A. brevis, A. maroccana and A. sterilis showing the maximum stress up to 16th day from with-holding the water supply. The second group comprised of three species (A. strigosa, A. vaviloviana and A. abyssinica) showing tolerance up to 12th day and the third group in which the stress tolerance was recorded up to 9th day comprised of only one species i.e. A. sativa. Among all these seven species evaluated for drought tolerance, three species belonging to group Ist showe','Drought, water relations, tolerance, climate change, oat, stress.','','',''),(3489,'107','A Review on Blight and Bulb Rot of Onion caused by Sclerotium rolfsii Sacc.','Rimamay Konjengbam','124 A Review on Blight and Bulb Rot of Onion caused by Sclerotium rolfsii Sacc. Rimamay Konjengbam.pdf','',1,'Onion is an important crop that is well known for its culinary and medicinal purposes throughout the world. Blight and bulb rot of onion Sclerotium rolfsii Saccardo has been reported from different areas. The above ground symptoms includes blighting and wilting while underground symptoms includes soft and watery rots accompanied by white mycelium of the fungus. The disease is favoured by moist soil and cool temperature. The pathogen produces sclerotia for survival. The pathogen is omnivorous and soil borne. The disease also developed after harvest during storage which is also characterized by soft rots and presence of mycelium as well as sclerotia. This reduces commercial value and marketableness of the harvested produce. Thus, efficacious management practices should be adopted to avoid both pre harvest as well as post harvest economic loses. Several approaches are efficiently adopted for efficiently managing S. rolfsii in vivo conditions. Newer approaches which are alternatives to har','Onion, Sclerotium rolfsii, Blight, Bulb rot, Sclerotia.','','',''),(3490,'107','Morphological Characterization of Sesame (Sesamum indicum L.)','Gangishetti Ranjithkumar* and Rajani Bisen','125 Morphological Characterization of Sesame Sesamum indicum L. Gangishetti Ranjithkumar.pdf','',1,'Sesame, one of the most important oilseed crops is called as queen of oilseeds due to its high nutritional rate and presence of antioxidants. The aim of the present experiment is to evaluate 500 sesame accessions in un-replicated Augmented Block Design at Project Co-ordinating Unit (Sesame & Niger) Research farm, JNKVV campus, Jabalpur, Madhya Pradesh for two seasons during Kharif-2019 and 2020. Sesame accessions were characterized for nineteen morphological traits on the basis of NBPGR descriptors. Observations were recorded on leaves, stem, flowers and capsule of plants at different stages. A significant amount of variation was observed for the most of the traits studied. Results revealed divergent characteristics of sesame germplasm and indicated that morphological variation exists in the collected accessions which are helpful to a breeder for improving genetic architecture of plant. This will be highly helpful for varietal identification and conservation.','Accessions, variation, genetic architecture.','','',''),(3491,'107','Effect of Early Moisture Stress in Recombinant Inbreds and Identification of Moisture Stress Tolerant Groundnut Lines based on Statistical Approaches','Bharath Kumar P. Jambagi*, Savithramma, D. L., Santosh G. M. and Shailja Chauhan','126 Effect of Early Moisture Stress in Recombinant Inbreds and Identification of Moisture Stress Tolerant Groundnut Lines based on Statistical Approaches Bharath Kumar P. Jambagi.pdf','',1,'Groundnut (Arachis hypogaea L.) is an important oil seed crop mainly grown under rainfed situation. Pod yields are generally hampered due to erratic rainfall and frequent drought during the crop growth period under rainfed conditions. Drought during critical crop growth stages is crucial for loss in yield of groundnut varieties. But tolerant genotypes may give better yield due to maintenance of physiological responses that were triggered during drought. Drought tolerance enhancement requires dependable estimate of drought tolerance potentials among the genotypes. In order to appraise drought stress in groundnut, a mapping population of 147 recombinant inbred lines (RILs) derived from the cross NRCG 12568 Ã— NRCG 12326 were evaluated under moisture stress and non-stress field environments. The stress was imposed by withholding irrigation from 30-45 DAS to investigate relationships and repeatability among fifteen drought tolerance indices. Based on correlation and discriminating ability ','Moisture stress, Drought tolerant indices, Principal component analysis, Groundnut.','','',''),(3492,'107','Environmental Benefits of using Solar Photovoltaic Power based Micro-irrigation System in Vegetable Cultivation: A Case Study','M.K. Ghosal*, N. Sahoo and Jyoti Ranjan Rath','127 Environmental Benefits of using Solar Photovoltaic Power based Micro-irrigation System in Vegetable Cultivation A Case Study M.K.pdf','',1,'One aspect of achieving sustainability in any human related activity is to look into the environment-friendliness against the emission of the greenhouse gases. The present study focusses and reveals the environmental benefits of using solar photovoltaic power for water pumping in the irrigation sector for the warm and humid climatic conditions. The environmental benefits of a small capacity (1 hp) directly coupled DC solar PV water pump have been studied for growing vegetables in an area of 1 acre with the integration of drip system. The system would be capable of replacing the current use of electric and diesel pump sets with the mitigation of emitting CO2 in the irrigation sector. It is estimated that total annual CO2 emissions can be mitigated in the tune of 70 Ã— 107 kg by replacing the existing electric (2.00 lakhs) and diesel (3.00 lakhs) pump sets in the state of Odisha, India. Pay-back period of the developed set up was estimated to be only 1 year causing its easy acceptance am','Solar photovoltaic water pumping system, Micro-irrigation, Drip irrigation, Vegetable cultivation, Greenhouse gases.','','',''),(3493,'107','Variability and Character Association in M3 generation of Urdbean\r\n [Vigna mungo (L.) Hepper]\r\n','Harshit Chaturvedi, Sumer Singh Punia, D. K. Gothwal, Varsha Kumari, A. C. Shivran, G. K. Mittal, Khajan Singh, Shyam Singh Rajput and J. Souframanien4','128 Variability and Character Association in M3 generation of Urdbean Varsha Kumari.pdf','',1,'Urdbean is an important pulse crop produced in all seasons but due to its cleistogamous nature creation of variability through artificial hybridization is difficult so mutation breeding occurs as the cleanest approach to induce desirable changes in the crop. Present study was undertaken to study genetic variability and character association in M3 generation of Urdbean and to find out promising mutant lines for yield and protein content. Gamma rays irradiated 72 mutants from parent varieties PU 1 and CO 6 were evaluated in kharif, 2019 in Augmented design in four blocks along with five check varieties including parental varieties viz., PU 1, CO 6, MU 2, TPU-4, KU 96-3 in Research farm, Sri Karan Narendra Agriculture University, Jobner, Jaipur. Analysis of variance depicted sufficient genetic variability for most of the characters. Mutations were induced in both the directions. Heritability and Genetic advance were high for the characters seed yield per plant and pods per plant. GCV and ','Urdbean, Mutation, Variability, Character Association.','','',''),(3494,'107','Proximate Composition of Banana fruit Peel of Varieties Grand Naine (AAA), Rajapuri (AAB) and Ney Poovan (AB) at different stages of Ripening','Vasundhara B.A.*, Rajashekhara E., Thammaiah N., Kulapati H., Mesta R.K. and Ragavendra S.','129 Proximate Composition of Banana fruit Peel of Varieties Grand Naine _AAA_, Rajapuri _AAB_ and Ney Poovan _AB_ at different stages of ripening Vasundhara B.pdf','',1,'The causal agent for banana anthracnose disease infects banana fruits in the field/plantation (called latent infection) and disease symptoms appear gradually only on fruit peel after harvesting and storage. The present study was aimed to evaluate nutritional compounds such as moisture, pH, acidity, phenolics and antioxidants content of banana peel to know the possible influence on banana anthracnose the biochemical analyses of peels of three banana varieties viz., Grand Naine, Rajapuri and Ney Poovan at three different stages of their ripening were made. Results of analyses showed that the percentage moisture content of peel significantly decreased in Rajapuri (85.33 % â€“ 81.66 %) and Ney Poovan (86.00 % -73.00 %) at their yellow stage of ripening. The maximum pH value (6.24) of banana peel of Grand Naine was recorded at green stage of fruit ripening. The maximum TSS (3.73 0 Brix) and the minimum (2.00 0 Brix) were recorded at yellow stage of maturity in Ney Poovan and Grand Naine var','Biochemical properties, banana peel, three varieties of banana.','','',''),(3495,'107','Impact of Different Shade Environments on Growth and Development of Purple Nutsdge (Cyperus rotundus L.)','K. Srimathi*, C. R. Chinnamuthu, R. Karthikeyan, R. Gnanam and A. Lakshmanan','130 Impact of Different Shade Environments on Growth and Development of Purple Nutsdge Cyperus rotundus L. K. Srimathi.pdf','',1,'Purple nutsedge (Cyperus rotundus L.) is one of the most invasive perennial sedges and is considered the worldâ€™s worst weed. The sedges propagate mainly by producing a complex underground system of rhizomes, basal bulbs and tubers. The tubers will remain viable for more than three years and can withstand any adverse environmental conditions. In addition, the lack of an effective long-term strategy to control, this weed becomes aggressive and troublesome throughout the world. Because of their extreme competitiveness, weeds continue to dominate crops. Understanding the dynamics of crop-weed competition is thus critical for expanding weed management approaches and improving them over time. Because both crops and weeds compete for light by shading each other, a thorough understanding of the different competitive potentials of crops and weeds in the shade is essential for developing effective weed control strategies. The present experiment was founded on all of the preceding deductions an','Purple nutsedge, weed, shade, tuber, biomass, leaf area','','',''),(3496,'107','Performance of Nipping on Growth and yield of Pigeonpea (Cajanus cajan (L.) Millsp) under Rainfed Conditions of Karnataka','Vivek S. Devaranavadagi*, Shubha S. and Mallappa B.','131 Performance of Nipping on Growth and yield of Pigeonpea _Cajanus cajan _L._ Millsp_ under Rainfed Conditions of Karnataka Vivek S. Devaranavadagi.pdf','',1,'A two-year field trial was conducted at Arakeri village, Vijayapur district in Vertisols during Kharif 2019-20 and 2020-21 to study the effect of nipping on pigeonpea under rainfed conditions of north Karnataka with the aim of finding profitable stage for nipping. Adopting nipping using solar operated tool and hand nipping increased the grain yield by 36.80, 13.61 per cent for 2019-20 and 36.14, 20.48 percent for 2020-21 respectively over farmerâ€™s practice. Significant reduction in plant height was seen in nipped plots than farmerâ€™s practice. The increase in grain yield indicates that nipping using solar operated tool could be effective treatment for pigeonpea in Vertisols. Higher gross and net returns with greater BC ratio was observed with nipping using solar operated tool followed by hand nipping technology.','Solar operated nipping tool, Pigeonpea, Hand nipping, Rainfed areas, Vertisols. ','','',''),(3497,'107','Studies of Heterosis for Yield related Traits in Tomato (Solanum lycopersicum L.)','Shashank Shekhar Singh ','132 Studies of Heterosis for Yield related Traits in Tomato Solanum lycopersicum L. Shashank Shekhar Singh.pdf','',1,'The phenomenon of heterosis breeding express in first generation which is result of crossing of inbred line. Generally heterosis is not fixable in homozygous population. Therefore the present investigation was carried out during 2017-18 and 2018-19 in the department of Horticulture, SHUATS, (formerly Allahabad Agriculture Institute), Prayagraj, Uttar Pradesh, by using eight parents for yield and its related traits in half diallel manner. The analysis of variance showed that significant difference among tomato genotype for all characters. The promising F1 hybrid over mid parent for yield contributing traits was PBT-23Ã—PBT-22 for days to 50 percent flowering, days to first fruit set, average fruit weight and fruit length and PBT-15Ã—PBT-23 was a promising F1 hybrid for days to first fruit ripening, number of fruit per cluster, yield per plant, yield per hectare, pH of fruit juice and ascorbic acid. The promising F1 hybrid over better parent was PBT-15Ã—PBT-23 for number of fruit per clu','Heterosis, breeding, for yield related traits, analysis of variance, ','','',''),(3498,'107','Effect of Combination of Fungi Toxicants and Packaging Material on Banana Anthracnose cv. Grand-Naine','Vasundhara B.A.*, Rajashekhara E., Thammaiah N., Kulapati H., Mesta R.K. and Ragavendra S.','133 Effect of Combination of Fungi Toxicants and Packaging Material on Banana Anthracnose cv. Grand-Naine Vasundhara B.A.pdf','',1,'Effect of fungi toxicants in combination with packaging material was investigated in managing anthracnose disease ob banana cv. Grand Naine at 26Â°C. Fresh green matured banana fruits were treated with 0.1 % carbendazim, propiconazole, cinnamon oil, 20% datura leaf extract and control (without packaging + no treatment). Treated banana fruits were packed in cartoon boxes and news paper stored at 26Â°C. The results showed significant difference at 7th, 10th and 12th day of storage. The treatment newspaper + carbendazim 0.1%, without packaging + propiconazole 0.1% and cartoon box + carbendazim 0.1% showed lowest PDI 6.47%, 8.44% and 15.67% respectively on 12th day of storage by reducing the physiological loss in weight and increasing shelf life of banana up to 10-14 days.','Packaging, fungi toxicants, anthracnose disease.','','',''),(3499,'107','Evaluation of SRL and different Root Contributing Traits of Rice (Oryza sativa L.) under Water Stress','Selukash Parida, Goutam Kumar Dash, Kailash Chandra Samal, Subhashree Das and Padmini Swain*','134 Evaluation of SRL and Different Root Contributing Traits of Rice Oryza sativa L. under Water Stress Selukash Parida.pdf','',1,'A pot experiment was conducted to evaluate the root growth and distribution of four earlier screened rice genotypes i.e. Parijata, IC 516008, Lalat and Prasad. Water stress (WS) was imposed 15 days before flowering by withdrawing irrigation and allowed to grow with controlled irrigation. Our results showed that specific root length (SRL) was positively associated with the total root length (TRL), root surface area (RSA), root volume, specific root area (SRA), and root length density (RLD) however; SRL was negatively associated with root average diameter (RAD). Under WS, Parijata and IC 516008 possessed greater survival ability by enhancing SRL and were considered tolerant genotypes compared to Lalat (moderately tolerant) and Prasad (susceptible genotypes). With higher SRL, the tolerant genotypes are associated with improving water potential and photosynthetic rate. SRL can be considered a crucial root trait for the genetic improvement of genotypes to improve yield under WS.','Genetic improvement, root diameter, root volume, SRL, RAD.','','',''),(3500,'107','Screening of Rice Cultivars Resistance to Water Scarcity (Aerobic Condition) during Summer under Drip Fertigation System','P. Sujithra*, A. Gurusamy, P. Saravana Pandian, T. Sivakumar and E. Subhramanian','135 Screening of Rice Cultivars Resistance to Water Scarcity _Aerobic Condition_ during Summer under Drip Fertigation System P. Sujithra.pdf','',1,'A field experiment was conducted at AICRP on Water management research block, Agricultural College and Research Institute, Madu raito screen the suitable rice cultivar for aerobic cultivation under drip fertigation system. The rice cultivars namely, Anna (R) 4, CO 51, APO 1, MDU 6, TKM 13 and ADT (R) 45 were tested under drip fertigation system. Among the different rice cultivars tested under drip fertigation system, APO 1 recorded the highest SPAD value (37.1, 40.9 and 42.4 at active tillering, panicle initiation and at flowering stage, respectively), root volume (19.3, 40.7 and 42.1 cc at active tillering, panicle initiation and at harvest stage, respectively), maximum number of tillers m-2 (328 tillers m-2), number of productive tillers (302 productive tillers m-2), dry matter production (11904 kg ha-1), grain (4459 kg ha-1) and straw yield (6581 kg ha-1) in aerobic condition under drip fertigation.','Screening, aerobic condition, growth, productivity, drip fertigation.','','',''),(3501,'107','Fermentative Production of Sweetened Jelly using Lactic acid-producing Amylolytic Mold Starters','Gayathry, G.*, Jothilakshmi, K. and Sangeetha, A.','136 Fermentative Production of Sweetened Jelly using Lactic acid-producing Amylolytic Mold Starters Gayathry G.pdf','',1,'An experiment was conducted to prepare and standardise sweetened jelly like dessert food from glutinous rice and cassava by using a pure mold culture Amylomyces rouxii (SGK-2) under semi-controlled fermentation condition. The different substrates selected for the formulation of various treatments were boiled glutinous rice (100%) (T1), boiled cassava (100%) (T2), boiled glutinous rice (50%) + cassava (50%) (T3). The different treatment combinations were mixed with two gram of rice flour based inoculum containing 106 cfu g-1 of pure mold culture Amylomyces rouxii (SGK-2) and fermented at room temperature for 48 hrs. After the period of incubation, a thick paste-like mass was developed with a sweet aroma. The palatability of the thick paste-like mass was increased by overlaying of the developed product with melted, sweetened China grass agar jelly and allowed to settle for 10 min. The contents were refrigerated at 20Â°C. The chilled, sweetened jelly was served for sensory evaluation.','Amylomyces rouxii (SGK2) glutinous rice, cassava, semi-controlled fermentation sweetened jelly, dessert food.','','',''),(3502,'107','Seed source Variations, Genetic Estimates and Cluster Analysis for \r\nPhysio-chemical Fruit Characters of Himalayan Wild Pomegranate\r\n','Divya Mehta* and Tara Gupta','137 Seed source Variations, Genetic Estimates and Cluster Analysis for Divya Mehta.pdf','',1,'Genetic improvement of the Himalayan wild pomegranate through seed source studies is essential to boost the tropical and sub-tropical pomegranate breeding programs. Therefore, the present investigation was carried out in Himachal Pradesh with a target to determine within and between seed source variations, genetic estimates for fruit characters and clustering pattern of the wild pomegranate genotypes. Eight seed sources each with three genotypes were selected and eighteen physio-chemical fruit characters were recorded. The data were then subjected to statistical analysis. For most of the fruit characters, Narag (S1) as well as the genotypes within the seed source performed best. Maximum environmental (36.7%), genotypic (41.56%) and phenotypic (50.68%) coefficient of variance were observed for aril moisture content, non-reducing sugars and non-reducing sugars, respectively. High heritability was observed for aril weight (0.63), total soluble solids (0.99), ascorbic acid (0.97), total su','Wild pomegranate, seed sources, fruit characters, genetic estimates, cluster analysis.','','',''),(3503,'107','Studies on the Status and Opportunity of Leafy Vegetable Crop Harvesting in Chhattisgarh','Pushpraj Diwan, R.K. Naik and Amita Gautam','138 Studies on the Status and Opportunity of Leafy Vegetable Crop Harvesting in Chhattisgarh PUSHPRAJ DIWAN.pdf','',1,'Leafy vegetables have a very high protective food value and are very easy to grow. Due to its high nutritive value, it is very popular in India. The harvesting operation of green leafy vegetable crops is normally done manually. Manual harvesting method is very tedious and time taking operation. A purposive survey was conducted to know the status of adopted method for harvesting of leafy crops. Biometric characteristics and engineering properties of leafy crop were observed to know the behavior of the leafy crop in the field as well as after harvesting. In survey status overall discomfort rating also observed during harvesting of leafy crops by adopted harvesting method (manual harvesting and harvesting with sickle).','Biometric properties, leafy vegetable harvesting, overall discomfort rating, body part discomfort score and cost of operation.','','',''),(3504,'107','Influence of Botanical Seed Priming and Foliar Application of Zinc Oxide Nanoparticle on Physiological Studies for Yield Enhancement in Finger Millet + Greengram Intercropping System','C. Mohanasundar*, K. Ramamoorthy, K.R. Latha, P. Santhy, C.N. Chandrasekhar and A. Lakshmanan','139 Influence of Botanical Seed Priming and Foliar Application of Zinc Oxide Nanoparticle on Physiological Studies for Yield Enhancement in Finger Millet Greengram Intercropping System C. Mohanasundar.pdf','',1,'Finger millet is extremely suitable for cultivation under severe conditions while maintaining average yield. Seed priming is the pre-treatment of seeds using various ways in order to increase seed germination rate, germination percentage and seedling emergence uniformity by regulating the amount of water accessible in the seed. With limited arable land and water resources, agricultural sector development can only be achieved by improving resource utilization efficiency while, nanotechnology has the ability to completely alter the agricultural sector. An experiment has been undertaken to investigate the impact of nanoscale zinc oxide particles on plant growth and development. A field experiment was conducted at Tamil Nadu Agricultural University, Coimbatore during rabi season to evaluate the response of effective farming practice for sole finger millet and finger millet + greengram intercropping system under rainfed conditions to varied levels of bio-seed priming and foliar application ','Fingermillet, botanical priming, nanoparticles, intercropping and sustainability.','','',''),(3505,'107','Impact of Automated Drip Irrigation System on Growth and Yield of Bhendi (Abelmoschus esculentus (L) Moench.)','R. Suvitha*, A. Velayutham and V. Geethalakshmi','140 Impact of Automated Drip Irrigation System on Growth and Yield of Bhendi _Abelmoschus esculentus _L_ Moench._ R. Suvitha.pdf','',1,'A study was carried out to evaluate the performance of different types of automated drip irrigation system on bhendi during rabi 2019-20 and rabi 2020-21 at the drip automation unit, Tamil Nadu Agricultural University. An approach of irrigation scheduling comprising of 4 different automated drip irrigation systems are time based drip irrigation, volume based drip irrigation, soil moisture sensor based irrigation, switching tensiometer based irrigation which was compared with the surface method of irrigation. The results revealed that tensiometer based drip irrigation recorded higher plant height of 108.29 and 107.58 cm at final harvest stage, dry matter production of 4686 and 4667 kg ha-1 at final harvest stage and fruit yield of 23.86 and 24.05 t ha-1 during rabi 2019-20 and rabi 2020-21 resulting in increment over conventional method of irrigation. However, the above treatment was followed by soil moisture sensor based drip both years of study. Automated drip irrigation using sensors','Bhendi, automated drip irrigation, surface irrigation, fruit yield.','','',''),(3506,'107','Performance of rabi Horsegram as influenced by kharif Finger Millet Crop Geometry and Nutrient Management Practices','A. Aliveni*, B. Venkateswarlu, M. Sree Rekha, P.R.K. Prasad and K. Jayalalitha','141 Performance of rabi Horsegram as influenced by kharif Finger Millet Crop Geometry and Nutrient Management Practices Aliveni Abothula.pdf','',1,'Finger millet-horsegram crop sequence has the potential to provide secured income to the farmer, maintain the soil health besides sustain agricultural production. The productivity of succeeding crops depend on preceding crops and their level of management. The present investigation is designed to study the influence of crop geometry and nutrient management practices in kharif grown finger millet on rabi horsegram. A Field experiment was conducted at Agricultural college farm, Bapatla during the kharif and rabi seasons of 2018-19 and 2019-20 to study the residual effect of nutrient management approaches in finger millet on growth and yield of succeeding horsegram crop under finger millet - horsegram system. The experimental design was split plot with three replications. The main-plot factor comprised of three crop geometries with different age of seedlings (30x10 cm with 30 days old seedlings, 30Ã—30 cm with 15 days old seedlings and 45 Ã— 45 cm with 15 days old seedlings) and seven nut','Finger millet-horsegram, cropping sequence, nutrient management, yield attributes and yield.','','',''),(3507,'107','Post Harvest Effect of Chemicals, Hormones along with Organic Coatings on Prolonging Storability and Biochemical Constituents of Sugar Apple\r\n (Annona squamosa L.)\r\n','Abhay Bisen*, Shwati Pardhi and Rahul Dongre','142 Post Harvest Effect of Chemicals, Hormones along with Organic Coatings on Prolonging Storability and Biochemical Constituents of Sugar Apple Abhay Bisen.pdf','',1,'Sugar apple (Annona squamosa L.) belongs to family annonaceae, is an arid zone fruit grown in India. Being a climacteric fruit, it is highly perishable with very short shelf life of 1 to 2 days after ripening. Hence, it is a major drawback and challenge for farmers. An experiment was conducted during the month of October 2015-16 to analyse the effect of chemicals along with organic coatings on storability and quality attributes of sugar apple fruits. Fruits of Annona squamosa were harvested manually at physiological light green fully matured stage, washed by fresh water to remove dust particles. Subsequently, fruits were selected randomly as per requirement. Apply various recommended chemicals and hormones, each of two doses namely CaCl2 1 and 2%, NAA 50 and 100 ppm, GA3 50 and 100 ppm and KMnO4 0.01 and 0.05% along with organic coatings of Aloe vera gel 50 and 100%, Sago 5 and 10% and Paraffin wax 5 and 10%). Thus total treatments were 15 including control. After app','Sugar apple, Shelf life, Post harvest, Fruits, Storage and Physico-chemical.','','',''),(3508,'107','Morphological Characterization of Chilli (Capsicum annuum L.) Germplasm','Pallerla Saisupriya*, Pidigam Saidaiah and S.R. Pandravada','143 Morphological Characterization of Chilli Capsicum annuum L. Germplasm Pallerla Saisupriya.pdf','',1,'The genetic variability is plinth for any breeding program. Characterization of germplasm is highly essential as it helps in identification of the varieties. In the present investigation, 35 genotypes of chilli were characterized using 10 qualitative traits viz. life cycle, stem colour, plant growth habit, leaf pubescence, leaf colour, leaf shape, leaf margin, corolla colour, fruit position and fruit surface. Wide variations were observed among the 35 genotypes for the qualitative traits especially in leaf pubescence, leaf shape, fruit position and fruit surface. Morphological markers enable the detection of genetic variation based on individual phenotypic variations. These qualitative traits which exhibited high phenotypic variability will be useful as morphological markers in selection of segregating populations. Therefore, it is necessary to lay attention on these traits in crop improvement programme. This study significantly contributes to the knowledge of conservation of genetic r','Chilli, genotypes, morphological markers, variability.','','',''),(3509,'107','A Study on Women Empowerment through Self-Help Groups (SHGs) in Rayalaseema Region of Andhra Pradesh','D. Rafi*, N. Venkatesa Palanichamy, D. Suresh Kumar, C. Velavan,\r\nV. Anandhi and D. Murugananthi','144 A Study on Women Empowerment through Self-Help Groups _SHGs_ in Rayalaseema Region of Andhra Pradesh D. RAFI.pdf','',1,'Women are one of the fundamental leading workforces in India which plays a major role in the economy. The women are born leaders, but most of them were confined to household activities and have been facing a lot of difficulties and sufferings. In India, nearly 50 % of the human population are women and about 75 % of the total female population is from rural areas. Women empowerment in all spheres of social and economic activities is mandatory to build up an egalitarian society. The present study was focused on womenâ€™s empowerment through SHGs in the Rayalaseema region of Andhra Pradesh. A total representative sample of 360 respondents with 120 SHG groups was taken for identifying the perceived level of women empowerment through SHGs. Purposive cum random sampling was employed for selecting the respondents. Perceived empowerment index was used for identifying the empowerment levels of members. The study has identified that SHG involvement had empowered the women in terms of social rec','Development, economic activity, women empowerment, social recognition, self-employment.','','',''),(3510,'107','Agronomic bio fortification to Improve Yield along with Iron Augmentation of Paddy','Ritu Saini, Anjali Dahiya, Harnek Singh Saini, Sunita Jain, Sunita Verma and Ajay Verma*','145 Agronomic bio fortification to Improve Yield along with Iron Augmentation of Paddy Dr. Ajay Verma.pdf','',1,'Iron supplementation of paddy varieties had been carried out by the economical agronomical biofortification process. Impressive changes had been observed among varieties for yield and yield related traits along with increased iron contents in dehusked rice varieties. The increase in grain yield per plant was higher in HBC19, Pusa 1121 while lowest in Govind. Palman 579 showed maximum increase while Super had minimum increase of in thousands grain weight at higher augmentation level. Increase in numbers of seeds per panicle was also observed in all rice varieties while maximum by Pusa1121followed by Super. Fe content in roots and shoots increased with increase in Fe concentration. Roots of HBC19 and Palman579 and shoots of Pusa1121 contained higher iron. Highest iron in dehusked grains was recorded in Palman579 followed by HBC19, Pusa1121, HKR120, Super and Govind. Agro biofortification desired a balance of iron augmentation as its excess causes toxic affect on the physiological process','Iron fortification, rice genotypes, yield and contributing traits.','','',''),(3511,'107','Impact of Subsurface Drainage System on Soil Physico-Chemical Properties - A Review','Sahana*, Rajashree, Eramma and Ramarao','146 Impact of Subsurface Drainage System on Soil Physico-Chemical Properties - A Review Sahana.pdf','',1,'Subsurface drainage has been used for more than a century to keep water table at a desired level of salinity and water logging control. This paper has been focused on the impact assessment of pilot studies in India from 1991 to 2018. This review article may prove quite useful in deciding the extent of reduction in salt content in soil after installation of subsurface drainage system. A number of pilot studies have been taken up in past to solve the problems of soil salinity and water logging in India. The general guidelines that arise on the behalf of this review paper are, leaching through subsurface drainage increased soil porosity, infiltration rate, organic carbon, available water, and decreased bulk density. The analysis of pre and post subsurface drainage soil samples revealed that the treatment is effective for saline soil reclamation by reducing in pH and EC of post subsurface drainage soil samples and ECe, Ca2+, Mg2+ and Na+ content was found to be reduced significantly as com','Subsurface drainage, salinity and water logging.','','',''),(3512,'107','Evaluation of Rajmash (Phaseolus vulgaris) Germplasm for increasing Productivity to Improve the Economic condition of Hill Farmers of Jammu and Kashmir','Vishal Raina*, Neeraj Kotwal, Narinder Panotra, Rohit Sharma, Mahital Jamwal and Pardeep Wali','147 Evaluation of Rajmash _Phaseolus vulgaris_ Germplasm for increasing Productivity to Improve the Economic condition of Hill Farmers of Jammu and Kashmir Narinder Panotra.pdf','',1,'The pole type varieties of Rajmash are grown in the temperate region of Union Territory of Jammu and Kashmir as an intercrop with maize. The prevalent local cultivars of pole type Rajmash germplasm is a mixture - having low productivity and prone to diseases therefore purification of local land races was required. The different genotypes of Rajmash (Phaseolus vulgaris L.) germplasm were collected and evaluated during the kharif season of 2012-2014 for increasing the productivity and income of hill farmers. Rajmash germplasm (23 pole type accessions) from different regions of erstwhile Doda district (Bhaderwah, Dakshin, Marwah, Chatroo, Jalgaon, Chinta, Kansar, Manthal, Chirralla, Nalthi, Gwari and Sartangal) were collected. Selected germplasm was subjected to evaluation based on pure line selection. Individual single plants were selected and pure line selection trials were laid at Sartangal research farm of RHRSS-Bhaderwah, SKUAST-Jammu. The following four selections showed promising ','Rajmash, Phaseolus vulgaris, Pureline selection.','','',''),(3513,'60','Population Dynamics of Insect Pest Complex under Rice Field Ecosystem of Eastern Uttar Pradesh, India','Gyan Prakash Morya* and Rajnish Kumar','22 Population Dynamics of Insect Pest Complex Under Rice Field Gyan Prakash Morya.pdf','',1,'Rice insect pests are major constraint in rice production. The insect pests of rice infest all parts of the plant at all growth stages and transmit few viral diseases of rice. Rice is grown mostly under Indo-Gangetic plains zone of India, which is widely distributed in Uttar Pradesh. This zone is mostly a warm humid environment conductive to the survival and proliferation of arthropods biodiversity. A study was undertaken to surveillance of population dynamics of insect pest complex under rice field ecosystem of Eastern Uttar Pradesh, India for two consecutive years, 2014 and 2015 in rainy season (Kharif). The surveillance was conducted in 03 administrative divisions namely, Gorakhpur, Basti and Azamgarh. There were 38 insect pest species observed under 03 rice growth stages of seedling, transplanting and flowering. The test of significance was used analysis of variance in randomized block design (RBD). Of the total observed test of significance under the population of rice insect pest','Population dynamics, Rice insect pest complex, Eastern Uttar Pradesh, India.','The significant variation among damaging groups and growth stages of rice were followed the natural phenomenon of variation, while non-significant variation among administrative divisions were represented the similar ecosystem of confined area of study. The significant variation among damaging groups and growth stages of rice under observed administrative divisions reflects the particular management strategy for particular source of significant variation, while the non-significant variation among administrative divisions solely reflects the universal management strategy for all sources of variation. Similar findings have been reported by Chakraborty and Deb (2012); Gangwar et al., (2015); Saini et al., (2015); Parasappa et al., (2017); Dwivedi (2018).','-','Morya, G.P. and Kumar, R. (2019). Population Dynamics of Insect Pest Complex under Rice Field Ecosystem of Eastern Uttar Pradesh, India. Biological Forum - An International Journal, 11(2): 165-169.'),(3514,'107','Soil Application and Frequencies of Foliar Spray of Boron and Ethephon on Growth and Yield of Cucumber (Cucumis sativus L)','Nguyen Viet Thanh*, Rajendra Kumar Panda, Kailash Chandra Samal, Gouri Shanker Sahu and Rabindra Kumar Nayak','148 Soil Application and Frequencies of Foliar Spray of Boron and Ethephon on Growth and Yield of Cucumber _Cucumis sativus L_ Nguyen Viet Thanh.pdf','',1,'The goal of this study was to observe the impact of soil and frequencies of foliar spray of boron and ethephon on growth and yield of Cucumber (Cucumis sativus L.) as two years field experiment in Central Farm of OUAT under coastal Odisha during 2020 and 2021. The information combine effect of ethephon and boron application is lacking, though their independent effect is well describe in cucumber cultivation. This is the new approve in this experiment. Cultivar Rohan used as planting material and was sown in rings of experimentally designed completely randomized block plots. Ethephon@300mg/l applied on all the treatments like T1- RDF (150-75-75):: N:P:K kg.ha-1 with zero boron (Control), T2- RDF+ B @1.0 kg soil application, T3- RDF+ FS @ 0.25% borax once, T4- RDF+ FS@ 0.5% borax once, T5- RDF+ FS@ 0.75% borax once, T6- RDF+ FS @ 1.0% borax once, T7- RDF+ FS@ 0.25% borax twice, T8- RDF+ FS@ 0.5% borax twice, T9- RDF+ FS @ 0.75% borax twice, and T10- RDF+ FS @ 1.0% borax twice, were use','Cucumber, Boron, ethephon growth, vine length, yields.','','',''),(3515,'107','Evaluation of the effect of different Dates of Sowing Regimes in Chickpea against Legume Pod Borer, Helicoverpa armigera (Hubner)','Ramana N., Sai Ram Kumar D.V., Jagdish Jaba, Anil Kumar P., Srinivasa Rao V., Suraj Prashad M. and Pooja Bhatnagar M.','149 Evaluation of the Effect of Different Dates of Sowing Regimes in Chickpea against Legume Pod Borer, Helicoverpa armigera _Hubner_ Narava Ramana.pdf','',1,'Effect of different sowing dates on chickpea crop and varietal factors against the incidence of legume pod borer Helicoverpa armigera, pod damage and yield were studied at the International Crops Research Institute for the Semi-Arid Tropics (ICRISAT), Patancheru, Hyderabad, Telangana during the post rainy seasons of 2019-20, and 2020-21. Ten Chickpea genotypes were sown at monthly intervals during first weeks of September, October and November. Each entry was sown in a 6 row plots, with 10 x 30 cm spacing. There were four replications in a split plot design. Among the different sowing regimes tested, November sown crop was found to be optimal and right time for sowing of the chickpea genotype to evade the pod borer coincidence. The borer population fluctuated with the change in dates of sowing. Pod borer population was higher in the early sown crop (September) and with delayed dates of sowing in October and November population decreased. There were significant differences in percent po','Chickpea genotypes, Temporal factors, Varietal performance, Pod borer, H. armigera','','',''),(3516,'107','Effect of Organic Manures and Inorganic Fertilizer on the Fruit Quality of Banana','Jaiz Isfaqure Rahman, D.N. Hazarika, Bikash Borah and Dhiraj Bhattacharjee','150 Effect of Organic Manures and Inorganic Fertilizer on the Fruit Quality of Banana Jaiz Isfaqure Rahman.pdf','',1,'There is a growing awareness about health and quality food in todayâ€™s society. The Total soluble solid, sugar content, acidity determine the degree of acceptability. A field experiment was conducted during 2016-2017 at Instructional cum Experimental Farm, Biswanath College of Agriculture, AAU, Biswanath Chariali. The effects of organic manures and inorganic fertilizer was considered on the fruit quality parameters of banana cv. Amritsagar (AAA). The investigation consist of 5 treatments with 5 replication laid on RBD. The treatments were as follows T1: FYM (Farm Yard Manure) + Microbial Consortia, T2: Enriched Compost, T3: Vermicompost, T4: Microbial Consortia, T0: RDF (FYM + NPK). The experiment revealed that qualitative characters such as TSS (Total soluble solid), titratable acidity, reducing sugar, non reducing sugar and total sugar were found highest in organic treatment than the inorganic treated plants. In the organics, T1 recorded the highest TSS (25.72Â°Brix) and lowest in T','Enriched Compost, Farm Yard Manure, Microbial Consortia, Total soluble solid, Titratable acidity, Total sugar, Vermicompost','','',''),(3517,'107','Performance of Gene Pyramided Rice Lines for Blast and Sheath Blight Resistance','Velprabakaran Senthilvel, Vanniarajan Chockalingam, Renuka Raman, Shanmugasundaram Rangasamy, Thiruvudainambi Sundararajan and Ramalingam Jegadeesan*','151 Performance of Gene Pyramided Rice Lines for Blast and Sheath Blight Resistance S. Velprabakaran.pdf','',1,'Rice is the major cereal among all other food crops in the world. It was majorly affected by various biotic stresses. Blast and sheath blight imposes 20-25% of yield penalty. The elite and sustainable method for valuable management of disease resistance development is to develop resistant cultivars. The phenotypic and genotypic evaluations were used in the marker assisted crop enhancement. The present study was carried out to inculcate blast (Pi54) and sheath blight resistant QTLs (qSBR11-1, qSBR11-2 and qSBR7-1) resistant lines into high yielding Co51 cultivar from donor parent Tetep. The homozygous lines (F5) showed significant yield potential and resistant attributes. Presence of resistance genes were confirmed through linked DNA markers (Pi54 MAS, RM209, RM224 and RM336) and the desirable plants were assessed for the morphological evaluation. Six selected improved lines exhibited good agronomic performance and good grain quality. The better resistant lines will be forwarded for fu','Marker assisted selection (MAS), Rice, blast, Sheath blight resistance.','','',''),(3518,'107','Effect of Soil Drenching and Foliar Application of Biostimulants on Growth and Yield of Curry Leaf (Murraya koenigii Spreng.)','M. Chinnapappa*, A. Ramar, S. Manickam, S. Velmurugan, V. Ravichandran and K. Bhuvaneswari','152 Effect of Soil Drenching and Foliar Application of Biostimulants on Growth and Yield of Curry Leaf Murraya koenigii Spreng. M. Chinnapappa.pdf','',1,'A field experiment was conducted to study the effect of soil drenching and foliar application of different biostimulants on growth and yield of curry leaf (Murraya koenigii Spreng.) at Karamadai, Coimbatore during 2019 to 2021. This study was laid out in factorial randomised block design with control, factor 1 as soil drenching (D1- humic acid @ 5 ml/plant and D2- jeevamrutham @ 50 ml/plant), factor 2 as foliar spray of different biostimulants (S1- Effective microorganism culture @ 2 %, S2-Egg amino acid @ 1%, S3-Panchagavya @ 3%, S4-Sea weed extract @ 2% and S5- Pink Pigmented Facultative Methylotrops (PPFM) @ 1 % and control as farmer practices. The experimental results revealed significantly higher plant height (129.30 cm), number of secondary branches (18.00), number of compound leaves (52.27), number of leaves per rachis (18.30) and fresh leaf yield (845.57 g/ plant) were observed in Humic acid + EM culture (D1S1). The rachis length (27.50 cm), leaf let length (7.65 cm) and leaf ','Curry leaf, Soil drenching, Foliar spray, Biostimulants, EM culture, Yield.','','',''),(3519,'107','Isolation, Screening and Characterization of Bioplastic (Poly Hydroxy Butyrate) producing Bacteria from Termite Mound Soil','M. Subasri*, V. Gomathi and J. Kavitha Mary','153 Isolation, Screening and Characterization of Bioplastic _Poly Hydroxy Butyrate producing Bacteria from Termite Mound Soil M. Subasri.pdf','',1,'Polyhydroxybutyrate (PHB) is considered as a bio-plastic produced by a broad group of bacteria. This study was aimed to explore potential PHB producing bacteria from termite mound soil. Out of twenty isolates obtained from the termite ecosystem, six bacterial isolates namely PHB 01, PHB 02, PHB 03, PHB 04, PHB 05 and PHB 06 were positively stained for PHB production with the help of Sudan B Black and Nile blue staining. In addition to that, morphological and biochemical characterization of bacteria were revealed. PHB-producing strains were identified by molecular analysis (16S rRNA) and named Bacillus siamensis (PHB 01), Bacillus subtilis (PHB 02), Azotobacter chroococcum (PHB 03), Bacillus safensis (PHB 04), Pseudomonas sp (PHB 05) and Bacillus megaterium (PHB 06). All the selected PHB producers will be further utilized for the production of PHB using various nutrient sources to ensure sustainable production of bio plastics.','Bacillus spp., Bio-plastic, PHB, 16S rRNA, termite mound soil.','','',''),(3520,'107','Effectiveness of Resistance inducing Chemicals against Chilli Fruit Rot Pathogen incited by Colletotrichum truncatum under in vivo and in vitro conditions','V. Devi Shanthini*, M. Theradimani, S. Thiruvudainambi, R. Renuka, S. Juliet Hepziba and S. Brindhadevi','154 Effectiveness of Resistance inducing Chemicals against Chilli Fruit Rot Pathogen V. Devi Shanthini.pdf','',1,'Chilli is a famous crop for its daily usage for its flavor and pungency. It is vastly affected by several diseases specially, Fruit rot disease cause huge loss both in quality and quantity. Resistance inducers such as Nicotinic Acid, Napthalene acetic acid, Salicyclic acid, Silicic acid and Sodium silicate were examined for control of Colletotrichum truncatum causing fruit rot in chilli at concentration viz., 50ppm,75ppm and 100ppm by using culture plate assay. Salicyclic acid with per cent inhibition of 96.65% found to be best in inhibiting mycelia growth of pathogen and found to be superior over other resistance chemicals both in culture plate assay and pot culture with less incidence of 21.6%. This study investigate management of Colletotrichum truncatum and further induce growth promotion in chilli plant when sprayed as foliar application. Therefore, the study provides dual promotion by managing pathogen as well as promote growth of plant and obtain better yield with quality pro','Colletotrichum truncatum, Chilli, Salicyclic acid and Resistance inducers. ','','',''),(3521,'107','Introduction of Ajwain (Trachyspermum ammi L.) Varieties in Northern Dry zone of Karnataka','Shubha S., Vivek S. Devaranavadagi* and Shivalingappa Hotkar','155 Introduction of Ajwain _Trachyspermum ammi L. Varieties in Northern Dryzone of Karnataka Shubha S.pdf','',1,'A technology demonstration of ajwain (Trachyspermum ammi L.) was aimed to improve the production after bringing new variety into cultivation in Vijayapur district of northern Karnataka. Studies were carried out to assess yield and economics of a new variety, AA-1 and AA-93 at the farmerâ€™s field under on farm testing trial (OFT) for two years (2019-20 to 2020-21). Among different ajwain varieties AA-1 recorded significantly higher yield (1170 and 1192 kg ha-1) as compared to local variety Kadapa (772 and 812 kg ha-1). Similar trend was observed for growth and yield parameters. The highest gross returns (Rs. 179088 and Rs. 178111 ha-1) and BC ratio (4.32 and 4.44) for 2019-20 and 2020-21 respectively were realized with AA-1 variety as compared with farmerâ€™s variety Kadapa.','Ajwain, AA-1, AA-93, Kadapa, Northern Karnataka, Yield and economics.','','',''),(3522,'107','Impact of various Organic Wastes based Vermicompost on Physiological Growth of Rice (Oryza sativa L.)','B.S.R. Niivedidhaa*, N. Maragatham, N. Thavaprakaash, P. Santhy and M. Maheswari','156 Impact of various Organic Wastes based Vermicompost on Physiological Growth of Rice Oryza sativa L. B.S.R. Niivedidhaa.pdf','',1,'A field experiment was conducted to study the effect of various organic wastes based vermicompost on physiological growth of rice (Oryza sativa L.) during the year 2019-20 and 2021. The experiment was carried out at the Wetland farms, Tamil Nadu Agricultural University, Coimbatore, Tamil Nadu. The study was carried out with various organic wastes based vermicompost. The treatments includes the earthworm Eudrillus eugeniae species with organic wastes paddy straw (T1), coconut wastes (T2), vegetable wastes (T3), farm wastes (T4) and FYM (T5) and Eisenia foetida with paddy straw (T6), coconut wastes (T7), vegetable wastes (T8), farm wastes (T9) and FYM (T10) and absolute control (T11). The result showed that the treatment Eudrillus eugeniae + coconut wastes (T2) was found significantly superior on drymatter production and other physiological growth rates during both the years. The study revealed that the vermicompost from coconut wastes along with earthworm species Eudrillus eugeniae infl','Vermicompost, Drymatter production, Crop growth rate, Relative growth rate, Net assimilation rate.','','',''),(3523,'105','Genotype-media Interactions in Aromatic Rice (Oryza sativa L.) Landraces of India, Relation with hypoxic Germination','Subhashree Das*, Banshidhar Pradhan, Simanchal Sahu, Kailash Chandra Samal, Selukash Parida and Sanghamitra Samantaray','144 Genotype-media Interactions in Aromatic Rice _Oryza sativa L._ Landraces of India, Relation with hypoxic Germination Selukash Parida.pdf','',1,'An experiment to optimize media for callus induction frequency (CIF) and shoot regeneration efficiency (SRE) of ten aromatic rice genotypes including nine local landraces and one released variety of Odisha using mature seed embryos as explants in five strengths of 2,4-dichlorophenoxy acetic acid (2,4-D) ( 1.0mgl-1, 1.5mgl-1, 2.0mgl-1, 2.5mgl-1, 3.0mgl-1) and two concentrations of 6- benzylaminopurine (BAP) (1.0 mg-1 and 2.0 mgl-1) in combination with Î±- naphthalene acetic acid (NAA) and kinetin (Kn) in Murashige & Skoog (MS) medium was performed. MS medium with 2mgl-1of 2,4-D, 0.5mgl-1 of NAA, 0.1mgl-1 of Kn, 0.25mgl-1of BAP and half strength MS medium with 2mgl-1 BAP, 0.25 mgl-1 Kn, 0.1mgl-1 NAA was found most efficient for CIF and SRE respectively. Tested genotypes showed varied responses towards CIF, SRE and callus morphology in the same medium. The response of genotypes to callus induction and shoot regeneration was supported by their behavior towards hypoxic germinati','Aromatic rice, callus induction, regeneration, MS medium, hypoxic.','Both CIF and SRE are genotype dependent. Genes responsible for callus induction are different from shoot regeneration. Each genotype has its specific media requirement for efficient CIF and SRE. The positive association of anaerobic (hypoxic) germination capacity with CIF and seedling development with SRE of the genotypes may be due to the presence of QTLs associated with these characters. This relationship can be helpful while selecting a genotype for research program involving in vitro techniques.','-','Das, S., Pradhan, B., Sahu, S., Samal, K.C., Parida, S., and Samantaray, S. (2021). Genotype-media Interactions in Aromatic Rice (Oryza sativa L.) Landraces of India, Relation with hypoxic Germination. Biological Forum â€“ An International Journal, 13(3a)'),(3524,'105','Performance of ETR and Y(II) of two Contrasting Rice (Oryza sativa L.) Genotypes under Water Stress','Selukash Parida, Goutam Kumar Dash, Kailash Chandra Samal and Padmini Swain*','145 Performance of ETR and Y_II_ of Two Contrasting Rice Oryza sativa L. Genotypes under Water Stress.pdf','',1,'Two rice (Oryza sativa L.) genotypes Parijata and Prasad were imposed to water stress (WS) to evaluate the performance of electron transport rate (ETR) and effective PSII quantum yield (Y (II) ). The experiment was performed in pots. The WS was imposed before 10 days of flowering by withdrawing irrigation and maintaining the pots at 50% field capacity. Under WS at flowering stage, the value of ETR,Y(II), Maximum quantum yield of PSII photochemistry (Fv/Fm), membrane stability index (MSI), relative water content (RWC), malondialdehyde (MDA) and total chlorophyll content were decreased in both the genotypes. However, the reduction was more prominent in Prasad. Reduction in Fv/Fm, ETR and Y (II) indicated balanced energy management in tolerant genotype Parijata. With higher ETR and Y (II) the tolerant genotype is associated with improving photosynthetic rate (Pn). The studies showed that the genotype Parijata is tolerant and Prasad is susceptible to WS in nature. The experiment signifies ','Electron transport rate, quantum yield, water stress, Fv/Fm, MDA.','An attempt has been inclined to the recognition of suitable traits that can accurately distinguish between tolerant and susceptible genotypes under WS. The genotypes Parijata showed more tolerance to WS. Targeting ETR and Y (II) at different light intensities was found to provide significant phenotypic information and sensitivity levels of genotypes under WS. With higher ETR and Y (II) the tolerant genotype is associated with improving photosynthetic rate (Pn). Strong correlations between Fv/Fm, MSI, RWC, MDA and total chlorophyll suggested that these parameters should be studied in the association while evaluating WS tolerance. ','-','Parida, S., Dash, G. K., Samal, K.C. and Swain, P. (2021). Performance of ETR and Y(II) of Two Contrasting Rice (Oryza sativa L.) Genotypes under Water Stress. Biological Forum â€“ An International Journal, 13(3a): 824-829.'),(3525,'107','Genetic Correlation and Path Analysis for Yield and Quality Attributes in Oat (Avena sativa L.)','Rukoo Chawla*, Minakshi Jattan, D.S. Phogat, Nisha Kumari, Sandeep Kumar and Atman Poonia','157 Genetic Correlation and Path Analysis for Yield and Quality Attributes in Oat Avena sativa L. Rukoo Chawla.pdf','',1,'Oat (Avena sativa L.) is an important winter forage crop suitable for green fodder. Oat has also progressively contributed as a source for human consumption because of its nutritional attributes. Correlation coefficient and path analysis were done to determine the interrelationships and effects among the seventeen yield and quality traits. This will assist in selecting meritorious traits and formulating strategies to accomplish maximum yield potential along with genetic gain for quality attributes. The study was conducted on sixty two oat genotypes in an augmented design during Rabi 2019-20 at Research Farm Area of Forage Section, Department of Genetics and Plant Breeding, CCS Haryana Agricultural University, Hisar. The analysis was done using R studio software 4.0.3. Positive and significant correlation of green fodder yield was recorded with dry matter yield, seed yield, test weight, peduncle length, number of leaves per plant, tillers per plant and plant height. Tillers per plant, ','Correlation, fodder yield, oat, path analysis, quality traits, seed yield.','','',''),(3526,'107','Evaluation of Curry leaf (Murraya koenigii L. Spreng) Accessions for Biochemical Traits','Dharini Chittaragi*, M. Ananthan, K. Venkatesan, P. Jeyakumar and L. Mahalingam','158 Evaluation of Curry leaf _Murraya koenigii L. Spreng Accessions for Biochemical Traits Dharini Chittaragi.pdf','',1,'Curry leaf is an important herbal spice mainly grown in South India. There exists a wide variability among different local types. Farmers are experiencing the challenges of identifying the cultivars as they are unfamiliar with the characteristics of the existing genotypes. Selection and exploitation of the promising genotype would be of immense value for commercialization. Hence the present study was conducted to explore the variation based on biochemical attributes among thirty Curry leaf accessions. Results revealed that the highest ascorbic acid (4.44 mg/100g) and protein (6.07/100g) content was recorded by accession number 13. Among the genotypes, accession number 11 showed the maximum content of total phenols (5.97%) chlorophyll-a (1.47 mg/100g) and total chlorophyll (1.80 mg/100g) whereas chlorophyll-b was highest (0.34 mg/100g) in accession number 13 respectively. The variations in biochemical traits observed among the accessions may be due to their genetic makeup. Hence acces','Genotypes, Chlorophyll content, Quality, Crop improvement.','','',''),(3527,'107','Studies on Nutrient Management in Nutricereal - Browntop Millet','Sukanya T.S., Nagaraja T. E., Kiran H.P., Anand M.R., Chaithra C. and Latha H.S.','159 Studies on Nutrient Management in Nutricereal - Browntop Millet Dr. Sukanya T.S.pdf','',1,'Millets are low nutrient-demanding crops, but they respond well to the addition of nutrients. So far, the exact requirements of major nutrients for Browntop millet have not been worked out and established and the productivity achieved is far below than their potential productivity. Hence, a field experiment was conducted during the kharif seasons of 2019 and 2020 in the red sandy loamy soil of GKVK, Bengaluru to identify the effect of different nutrient levels on yield, nutrient uptake, and available nutrients in the soil of Browntop millet cultivation. There were fourteen treatments replicated thrice under a randomised complete block design. The treatments included three nitrogen levels (20, 40 and 60 kg N ha-1), phosphorus levels (20 and 30 kg P2O5 ha-1), two levels of potassium (10 and 20 kg K2O ha-1), and one treatment as control. Among the different nutrient levels, treatment with 60 N kg ha-1 + 30 P2O5 kg ha-1 + 20 K2O kg ha-1 (T12) recorded the highest grain and straw yields ','Brown top millet, Grain yield, Nutrient levels, Nitrogen, Phosphorous Nutrient uptake, Available nutrients.','','',''),(3528,'107','Studies on Characterization of Garlic (Allium sativum L.) Genotypes based on Morphological characters','Siddappa R.*, M. Ananthan, A. Ramar, N.K. Hegde, S. Rajeswari, Krishna Surendar and G. Karthikeyan','160 Studies on Characterization of Garlic _Allium sativum L. Genotypes based on Morphological characters Siddappa R.pdf','',1,'The present investigation entitled on studies on characterization of Garlic (Allium sativum L.) genotypes for yield and quality was carried out during 2019-20 at HREC, Karnataka. The experiment was laid out in Randomized Complete Block Design with 3 replications and forty five genotypes collected from different parts of the country. Garlic cultivation depends on performance of genotypes that are suitable to different conditions imposed by specific environments. Socharacterization and evolution of garlic cultivation is basic step towards its population for its successful cultivation. The garlic genotypes were categorized on the basis of density of leaves, leaf length, width, pseudostem length, width, bulb size, shape, number of cloves, distribution of cloves, clove color, size, color of flesh. The material assessed in the investigation showed wide range of variation for various charters observed. Based on results, there are variation in garlic genotypes especially with respect to leaves','Garlic, Characterization, Gentotypes, Clove, Bulb.','','',''),(3529,'106','Kinetic and Mechanistic Profile of Some Phenolic Compounds by \r\nN-Chlorosaccharin in Aqueous Acid Medium\r\n','Sangeeta Sinha, S.P. Singh and M.N. Swami','8 Kinetic and Mechanistic Profile of Some Phenolic Compounds by Sangeeta Sinha.pdf','',1,'We report the mechanistic approach of oxidation of some phenolic compounds such as catechol and cresol by N-chlorosaccharin in different compositions of acetic acid-water medium. The reaction is first-order with respect to oxidant and order varies from one to zero with respect to both [phenolic compounds] and [acid]. A positive effect of solvent establishes a positive ion-dipole interaction whereas added saccharin exhibits a negative effect on rate. Kinetic profile for consumption of fivefold of [NCSA] was obtained at reaction conditions which followed first-order kinetics, substantiated by unit slope evaluated from the parallel plot of log10 (a-x) versus time plot. The stoichiometry of the oxidation is 2:1 demonstrating the formation of transitory complex between substrate and the protonated species of NCSA, which are readily oxidized to products. A plausible mechanism supported by substituent, abstraction of proton by Lewis base and temperature effect has been proposed.','Catechol, Ãž-cresol, N-chlorosaccharin, Kinetics, Oxidation','','',''),(3530,'107','Modern Methodologies for Crop Improvement','Peethala Renuka Devi Sri*, Yaddanapudi Satish, Nelli Yashwanth Kumar, Kanuri Komala Siva Katyayani, Chukhu Mercy, Ankita Bhakri and Amritpal Singh','161 Modern Methodologies for Crop Improvement Peethala Renuka Devi Sri.pdf','',1,'We live in a more advanced, technically sound and intelligent world thus to grow a healthy food there is a need for more intelligent tools, techniques and approaches in farming. Modern farmers have incredible resources to protect their crops from the threats that seem to be most efficient. Methods such as seed treatment precision application tools, predictive analytics and targeted pesticide solutions suite of innovative technologies. To track any disease, early and exact identification is necessary, â€˜machine learningâ€™ in agriculture provides more precise disease diagnosis which terminates the wastage of resources and energy from misdiagnosis. The software is utilized for diagnosis and to develop the management strategy by uploading images taken by smartphones, UAVs and land based rovers. Instead of synthesizing new chemicals, agro-based companies are trying out a new strategy using plant extracts, soil microbes, animal by-products and their combinations which are a bit more advanc','Intelligent farming; Innovative technologies; precision application tools; Machine learning; Sensor network application; Integrated disease management.','','',''),(3531,'107','Effect of Drip Irrigation and Fertigation Levels on Growth and Yield of Aerobic Rice','Mude Ashok Naik*, K. Vaiyapuri, N. Thavaprakaash, K. Nagarajan and N. Chandra Sekaran','162 Effect of Drip Irrigation and Fertigation Levels on Growth and Yield of Aerobic Rice -Mude Ashok Naik.pdf','',1,'A field study was conducted at Tamil Nadu Agricultural University, Coimbatore during rabi season of 2019-20 to study about the growth and yield of aerobic rice under different drip fertigation and irrigation levels. Thirteen treatments consists of 75 % and 100 % pan evaporation (two irrigation levels) and 75%, 100% and 125% RDF (three fertigation levels), combination with fermented fish waste (FFW) and fermented egg product (FEP), surface irrigation treatment as a check were arranged in randomized block design and replicated thrice. The result showed that significantly higher plant growth, yield attributes and yield during rabi season 2019 â€“ 20 were observed in drip fertigation at 125 % RDF, 100 % PE with FFW (3 times) than all other treatments. Which was closely related with drip fertigation at 125 % RDF, 100 % PE with FEP (3 times). The lower growth and yield were noticed in drip fertigation at 75 % RDF, 75 % PE with FEP (3 times). This study concluded that drip fertigation at 125 ','Aerobic rice, Drip fertigation, Fermented fish waste, Fermented egg product, Growth and Yield.','','',''),(3532,'107','Association between Profile Characteristics and Attitude of Farmers towards Mobile Phone Based Agro-Advisories (MBAs) on Cotton Crop','K. Madan Mohan Reddy, I. Sreenivasa Rao, M. Srinivasulu, G.D. Satish Kumar and G.E.CH. Vidyasagar','163 Association between Profile Characteristics and Attitude of Farmers towards Mobile Phone Based Agro-Advisories _MBAs_ on Cotton Crop Dr. K. Madan Mohan Reddy.pdf','',1,'The lack of ample man power of extension personnel is the major constraint in dissemination of information to Cotton farmers at right time across the country. The ratio of farmer to extension worker is continuing as a challenge for extension system. The challenge can be met by using potential of Information and Communication Technologies in place of manual intervention to meet the location specific information needs of the farmers. Hence the present study was carried out in three agro-climatic zones of Telangana State with the objective of studying the relationship between selected profile characteristics and attitude of farmers towards mobile phone based agro-advisories (MBAs) on cotton crop. For the purpose of study two forty (240) cotton growing farmers were selected. Experimental research design was followed. For this purpose method of summated rating scale developed by Likertâ€™s (1932) was used which consists of 15 statements. Data were collected by personal interview method. The','Attitude, Mobile Phone Based Agro-advisories (MBAs), Correlation, Multiple Linear Regression.','','',''),(3533,'107','Pathogenicity of Rhizoctonia bataticola isolates Collected from Southern India and Screening of Groundnut genotypes for Resistance to dry Root Rot in Field conditions','Pamala Prince Jayasimha, R. Sarada Jayalakshmi, K. Vemana, G. Mohan Naidu, Rajeev K. Varshney and Hari Kishan Sudini*','164 Pathogenicity of Rhizoctonia bataticola isolates Collected from Southern India and Screening of Groundnut genotypes for Resistance to dry Root Rot in Field conditions Pamala Prince Jayasimha.pdf','',1,'Groundnut is an economic important edible oilseed crop and suffers from seed, soil, and foliar diseases. Rhizoctonia bataticola is a soil-borne fungus causing dry root rot disease in groundnut and it survives in the soil for many years that resulting in disease mitigation difficulty. Managing dry root rot in groundnut through an integrated approach has been suggested, and the use of resistant varieties is one of the economical methods. The present study was conducted to know the virulent isolate of R. bataticola through pathogenicity test and screening of groundnut genotypes against dry root rot at Agricultural Research Station, Kadiri under sick soil conditions. The results revealed that the highest disease incidence (100%) was observed in isolate GRb 52 at 60 days after showing. Out of 61 genotypes, eight genotypes (ICGV 06146, ICGV 06424, ICGV 15070, ICGV 15080, ICGV 86325, K - 2307, KDG 123 and KDG 128) were showed resistant reaction (1-10%), 35 genotypes were found moderately resi','Groundnut, Rhizoctonia bataticola, Pathogenicity, Screening, Genotypes, Disease incidence.','','',''),(3534,'107','Plant Growth Promotion and Nif H Gene Amplification of Bacteria Isolated From Different Agro-Climatic Zones of Odisha','Sujata Priyadarshini*, Aiswarya Panda and Bibhuti Bhusan Mishra','165 Plant Growth Promotion and Nif H Gene Amplification of Bacteria Isolated From Different Agro-Climatic Zones of Odisha Sujata Priyadarshini.pdf','',1,'Indiscriminate use of chemical fertilizers has led to environmental contamination including deterioration of soil health and nitrogen status. Hence it is imperative to inculcate biological agents in order to reduce the ill effects of chemical fertilizer. Use of potent bacteria as bio-fertilizer can improve the soil nitrogen status leading to improved soil health and increased productivity. From the rhizospheric soil of different agro-climatic zones of Odisha, 63 bacteria were isolated and their plant growth promoting traits were studied. Sixteen potent bacteria showing maximum PGP traits were subjected to RT-PCR for nif H gene quantification to ascertain biological nitrification. Two isolates BS 2 and BS45 showing highest copy number increased growth performance viz. shoot length, root length, fresh & dry biomass and no. of leaves of green gram, black gram and pigeon pea. After the 16s r-DNA sequencing BS2 and BS45, were identified as Klebsiella quasipneumoniae and Enterobacter roggenk','Acid Soil, Agroclimatic Zone, Growth of Pulses, Nif H Amplification, Plant Growth Promoting Traits.','','',''),(3536,'107','Evaluation of Pseudomonas spp. and E. cloacae against Fusarium oxysporum in chickpea under Drought in vivo conditions','Swapnil B. Matikhaye*, Bethala Kumeera, Suchit A. John and P.W. Ramteke','166 Evaluation of Pseudomonas spp. and E. cloacae against Fusarium oxysporum in chickpea under Drought in vivo conditions Swapnil B. Matikhaye.pdf','',1,'Three rhizospere bacterial strains were collected from chickpea and three strains found to be potential against Fusarium oxysporum and identified through 16s rRNA sequencing as Pseudomonas spp, E. cloacae and P. chlororaphis. The present study was conducted during 2019-2020 and 2020-2021 at Department of Molecular Biology and Genetic Engineering, RTMNU, Nagpur, Maharashtra, to evaluate the effects of PGPR with biocontrol activity on biochemical parameters under in vivo conditions in chickpea KWR-108 genotype under drought. The pooled data of two experiment results recorded T7 (A+B) PGPR treatment with consortium of Pseudomonas spp. and P. chlororaphis ranged highest in chlorophyll â€˜aâ€™ with 25.75 (mg/g). In chlorophyll â€˜bâ€™ highest recorded with 44.82 (mg/g) in T7 (A+B), whereas in total chlorophyll content highest ranged between 10.86 (mg/g) in T8 (A+C) with consortium of Pseudomonas spp. and E. cloacae. In carotenoid content, the highest value reported in T7 (A+B) with 36.21 (','Chickpea, Fusarium oxysporum, PGPR, drought, Biochemical. ','','',''),(3537,'107','Approach towards Submerge Production, Characterization and Application of Extracellular Alkaline Protease from Pseudomonas aeruginosa YPVC','Vijay Chaudhary, Yogesh Patel*, Kavin Soni, Gaurav Dave, Abidali Bhagat1, Jalpesh Patel, Arvind Parmar and Surabhi Joshi','167 Approach Towards Submerge Production, characterization and Application of Extracellular Alkaline Protease from Pseudomonas aeruginosa YPVC Yogesh Patel.pdf','',1,'The trend of utilizing eco friendly products is consistently increasing, which results into replacement of several chemical products with microbial formulations. Alkaline protease is an important microbial metabolite having diverse industrial applications. Therefore, in present study, alkaline protease production was carried out from soil dwelling bacterial cultures. Total 66 bacteria amongst 135 were found to be enzyme producers. The isolate VV19 displayed the highest enzyme production with 309.12 Â± 4.1 U/ml activity in 24 h under submerge condition. This isolate was identified as Pseudomonas aeruginosa YPVC (GenBank accession number MN049574). The optimized culture conditions pH 10, temperature 30oC, inoculum size 7% (v/v), xylose 0.3%, KNO3 0.2% and NaCl 0.1% resulted into 2.4 fold increment in the alkaline protease productivity. Partial purification of the enzyme resulted into 7.62 purification and 53.51% enzyme yield after dialysis. The enzyme exhibited superior activity at optim','Alkaline protease; enzyme activity, Pseudomonas aeruginosa YPVC; optimization; characterization. ','','',''),(3538,'107','Evaluation of Potential PGPRs with Biocontrol Activity against Dry Root of Chickpea caused by Rhizoctonia bataticola and Mitigating Physiological Stress','Bethala Kumeera, Swapnil B. Matikhaye, P.W. Ramteke and Suchit A. John*','168 Evaluation of Potential PGPRs with Biocontrol Activity against Dry Root of Chickpea caused by Rhizoctonia bataticola and Mitigating Physiological Stress Bethala Kumeera.pdf','',1,'In this present study, out of thirty one root colonizing chickpea (C. arietinum) rhizosphere bacterial isolates, three isolates reported highly antagonistic to R. bataticola and found to be potential on the basis of 16S rRNA under accession number KP966499 for the strain PR31 identified as Bacillus subtilis. PR30 strain identified as Bacillus subtilus under accession number KP966505. PR10 strain identified as Enterobacter cloacae under accession number KP226575 and was deposited in Gen-Bank sequence database. The synergistic effects of PGPR as single and consortium treatments T9 (B+C) with E. cloacae and B. subtilis in this study ameliorated drought effects by reducing the degradation of chlorophyll â€˜aâ€™ ranged 0.67 mg/g, chlorophyll â€˜bâ€™ ranged 0.43 mg/g and total chlorophyll content 1.12 mg/g by improving water balance and osmoregulation by acting as osmoprotectant. Likewise by increased carotenoid in T6 with 80.31 Âµg/g content according to the mean data, assisted in declining','PGPR, R. bataticola, drought, chickpea, biochemical.','','',''),(3539,'107','Morphological Studies of Acid Lime (Citrus aurantifolia Swingle) Genotypes of North Western Regions of India','Shilpy Kumari*, Akash Sharma, Romesh Salgotra, Manish Sharma and Prabhdeep Singh','169 Morphological Studies of Acid Lime _Citrus aurantifolia Swingle_ Genotypes of North Western Regions of India Shilpy Kumari.pdf','',1,'Acid lime is an important cultivated fruit species with high morphological variability. This variability has been used by breeders and common people to practically distinguish different lime genotypes. Despite such well known variation, so far there is no published study specifically addressed the extent of phenotypic variability in Jammu region. Hence the present study was carried out to identify acid lime (Citrus aurantifolia Swingle) accessions using morphological characteristics. Seventy accessions were selected. A total of 34 characters were evaluated from the trees, leaves, flowers, fruits, pulp and seeds from each plant. Morphological characters of acid lime were recorded according to citrus descriptors where qualitative characteristics showed little variation among different acid lime genotypes. However, differences were recorded for quantitative characters. The mean leaf lamina length (89.60 mm) was recorded maximum in JMU-Chet(46) and minimum in JMU-Gura(24). Maximum mean lea','Morphology, Acid lime accessions, Diversity, Germplasm, Characterization.','','',''),(3540,'107','Characterization of Advanced Breeding (BC3F5) Lines of Basmati Rice \r\n(Oryza sativa L.) under North-Western Himalayan conditions\r\n','Prerna Johar*, R.K. Salgotra, Manish Kr Sharma, Sushil Sharma, Tuhina Dey, Moni Gupta and Tanveer Kour Raina','170 Characterization of Advanced Breeding _BC3F5_ Lines of Basmati Rice Prerna Johar.pdf','',1,'Genetic diversity is the basis for improvement of crop plants. The study of morphological traits is considered an effective tool for the preliminary assessment of genetic diversity together with the crop improvement programme. The diversity of plant genetic resources provides an opportunity to plant breeders for the advancement of novel and improved cultivars with desirable traits. The contemporary investigation was initiated at the research farm of SKUAST-Jammu, during wet season 2020 for the characterization of BC3F5 population comprising the advanced breeding lines of basmati rice, developed from diverse parents. Twenty nine advanced breeding genotypes of basmati rice were laid out in a randomized block design (RBD) along with three replications. The experimentation was accomplished by applying Tukeyâ€™s test. The analysis of variance (ANOVA) exhibited statistically significant differences (p<0.01), indicating the presence of genetic variability amongst the population, which can be ','Advanced breeding lines, genetic diversity, genotypes, genes.','','',''),(3541,'107','Attitude of Agripreneurs towards Entrepreneurial Motivation â€“ A Gender Analysis','Elakkiya S.* and M. Asokhan','171 Attitude of Agripreneurs towards Entrepreneurial Motivation â€“ A Gender Analysis Elakkiya. S.pdf','',1,'Agri entrepreneurship had contributed to growth of the economy. In order to develop the agri entrepreneurship, the entrepreneurs need certain motivational factor to start and run the enterprise. The study focused on to find out the entrepreneurial motivation of agripreneurs. The study identified the attitude of agripreneurs towards entrepreneurial motivation. An Expost facto research design has been used. The study was conducted in Namakkal, Madurai and Salem districts of Tamil Nadu. A sample of 204 agripreneurs was selected from the three districts by using Proportionate Random Sampling technique. To study the entrepreneurial motivation of agripreneurs, an attitude scale was developed by using Equal Appearing Interval scaling method. The result showed that most (43.63%) of the agripreneurs had moderately favourable attitude towards the entrepreneurial motivation followed by highly favourable and less favourable attitude towards the entrepreneurial motivation. From the results it concl','Motivational factor, Agripreneursâ€™ motivation, agripreneurship, motivation scale.','','',''),(3542,'107','Probit Analysis for Lethality, Injury and Sterility in M1 Generation of MDU 1 Barnyard Millet (Echinochloa frumentacea)','M. Karthikeyan, C. Vanniarajan*, M. Vetriventhan, A. Nirmalakumari, R. Shanmuga Sundaram, T. Sivakumar6 and G. Srinivasan','172 Probit Analysis for Lethality, Injury and Sterility in M1 Generation of MDU 1 Barnyard Millet _Echinochloa frumentacea_ M. Karthikeyan.pdf','',1,'MDU 1 is the recently released barnyard millet variety from Agricultural College and Research Institute, TNAU, Madurai. The duration of this variety is about 90â€“95 days. As the crop is mostly raised under rainfed conditions, early duration (75â€“80 days) barnyard millet varieties are preferred. Therefore, the MDU 1 barnyard millet was treated with the chemical mutagens to obtain desirable mutants. Since chemical mutagenesis produces more point mutations, Ethyl Methane Sulphonate (EMS) and Sodium Azide (SA) were selected for this study. The variety MDU 1 Barnyard millet was subjected to treatments of 5 mM, 10 mM, 20 mM, 30 mM, 40 mM, 50 mM and 60 mM of both the mutagens EMS and SA. Probit analysis was made and LD50 dose for EMS was 16.19 mM and 14.14 mM for Sodium Azide. Other characters such as survival percentage, shoot length, root length, plant height at maturity, pollen fertility and seed fertility were assessed in addition to germination percentage. All the characters were found','Barnyard millet, Ethyl Methane Sulphonate, Sodium Azide, LD50 value.','','',''),(3543,'107','Antifungal Activity of Bacillus spp. against Curvularia lunata causing Grain Discolouration of Rice','R. Yuvarani*, S. Thiruvudainambi, M. Theradimani, C. Vanniarajan4, R. Renuka and S. Brindha Devi','173 Antifungal Activity of Bacillus spp. against Curvularia lunata causing Grain Discolouration of Rice R. Yuvarani.pdf','',1,'Grain discoloration complex disease of rice is an emerging threat to rice crop all over the world and it acquires particular importance as it results in qualitative loss of harvested crop. The study\'s objective is to evaluate the effective Bacillus subtilis strain BS3 is at preventing rice grain discoloration. Twenty Bacillus spp. were examined in vitro for their ability to inhibit Curvularia lunata. The most effective isolate was chosen based on the antagonism and validated by 16s rRNA. PCR investigation revealed the antibiotic biosynthetic genes that produce bacillomycin, bacilysin, iturin, surfactin, subtilin, mersacidin, subtilosin, ericin, mycosubtilin, and fengycin in the successful isolates. Among the isolates, BS3 inhibited the pathogen\'s mycelial development the most (48.8%) and had the most antibiotic genes (6). By using gas chromatography mass spectrometry, secondary metabolites from B. subtilis (BS3) were discovered as Phenylethyl alcohol, Benzene ethanol, 4-hydroxyquinolin','Curvularia lunata, Bacillus spp., secondary metabolites, GCMS.','','',''),(3544,'107','Evaluation of Antagonistic Activity of Phylloplane Bacteria Against Finger Millet Blast Disease caused by Magnaporthe grisea','G. Sobanbabu*, M. Theradimani, S. Thiruvudainambi, C Vannirajan, S. Rajavel, \r\nK. Kalpana, S. Sindhu and S. Brindhadevi','174 Evaluation of Antagonistic Activity of Phylloplane Bacteria Against Finger Millet Blast Disease caused by Magnaporthe grisea G. Sobanbabu.pdf','',1,'Finger millet (Eleusine coracana) is the most nutritious crop and it has severely affected by blast disease is caused by Magnaporthe grisea. The disease is effectively managed by fungicides and some resistant varieties. The resistant varieties are affecting by pathogen due to agroclimatic changes and the fungicides are hazardous to ecosystem. Biocontrol agent is an alternative method for managing the blast disease and it involve directly or indirectly inhibits the growth of the pathogen. Totally thirty bacterial isolates were isolated on phylloplane region of finger millet crop. Out of thirty bacterial isolates, four isolates were found to be effective antagonists viz., DPB1, KB1, KP1 and DPP1. Among them, KB1 isolate showed the maximum inhibition of mycelial growth of M. grisea (62.87%) followed by DPB1 isolate (54.54 %). On biochemical screening, Bacillus spp. were identified by gram staining, starch hydrolysis and protease production tests and Pseudomonas spp. were identified by gra','Finger millet, Blast, Antagonists, Biochemical, Molecular characterization.','','',''),(3545,'107','Lateral Root from Scion Rescued the Susceptibility to Bacterial Wilt in Grafted Tomato on Wilt Resistant Brinjal Root Stock','Bablu Paul, Kasireddy Sivasankarreddy, Moumita Mallick, Nilima Karmakar and Hossain Ali Mondal*','175 Lateral Root from Scion Rescued the Susceptibility to Bacterial Wilt in Grafted Tomato on Wilt Resistant Brinjal Root Stock Hossain Ali Mondal.pdf','',1,'Arka Meghali, tomato variety developed by IIHR, Bangalore was released for kharif season cultivation. The North Bengal specific local brinjal having proven performance in all seasons was used as stock for grafting with Arka Meghali to heighten bacterial wilt resistance. The grafting process was optimized and transplanted into the field. The field performance, it was revealed that grafted Arka Meghali showed 88.26Â±6.44% wilt symptom as compared to non-grafted tomato (100% wilt), Arka Meghali. In the sick plot, non-grafted brinjal showed 11.11Â±2.77% wilt symptom. Further research revealed that upper portion above grafted point in scion showed higher OD at 600nm as compared to below portion of the grafted Arka Meghali (i.e. brinjal root stock). The non-grafted brinjal showed negligible concentration of bacterial titer in both below and above ground portion. Very interestingly, it was revealed that lateral root from the scion in the grafted tomato showed high titer of bacteria which cont','Arka Meghali; Solanum lycopersicum L.; Ralstoniasolanacearum; Grafting; Lateral root; Susceptibility. ','','',''),(3546,'107','Differential Responses of Oxidative Stress Indices in different Cultivars of Phaseolus vulgaris L. subjected to Rhizobacterial Inoculation','Tenzin Topgyal*, Moni Gupta, Thombre Mahadeo Uttamrao, Sachin Gupta, Amrinder Singh and Arjumand Zahoor\r\n','176 Differential Responses of Oxidative Stress Indices in different Cultivars of Phaseolus vulgaris L. subjected to Rhizobacterial Inoculation Tenzin Topgyal.pdf','',1,'The present study aims to unravel the mechanism of differential response of oxidative stress indices in response to rhizobacterial inoculation in Phaseolus vulgaris L. Oxidative burst triggered at the early events of the symbiotic interaction especially during nodulation stage which is necessary for the efficient development of healthy root nodules. To test our hypothesis, common bean seeds were inoculated with Rhizobium spp or co-inoculated with rhizobacteria and compared with uninoculated control plants. Afterward, at late flowering stage, the common bean nodules were collected, and the levels of ascorbic acid (AsA), hydrogen peroxide and lipid peroxidation activities were evaluated. There was constant increase in oxidative stress indices such as ascorbic acid, hydrogen peroxide (H2O2), and lipid peroxidation which might attributes to generation of free radicals during nodulation stage. However, ascorbic acid content in nodules was much higher than that in the root. Our results also ','Phaseolus vulgaris L., oxidative stress, ascorbic acid, lipid peroxidation, H2O2.','','',''),(3547,'107','Deriving Genetic Coefficients for Cotton using the DSSAT CROPGRO-Cotton Model','G. Srinivasan*, S. Pazhanivelan, S. Murali Krishnasamy, N.S. Sudarmanian, S. Rajeswari and Balaji Kannan','177 Deriving Genetic coefficients for Cotton using the DSSAT CROPGRO-Cotton Model G. SRINIVASAN.pdf','',1,'The Decision Support System for Agricultural Technology Transfer (DSSAT) was calibrated and evaluated using experimental data in different dates of sowing for simulation. Genetic coefficient for DSSAT CROPGRO-Cotton model such as CSDL, PPSEN, EM-FL, FL-SH, FL-SD, SD-PM, FL-LF, LEFAX, SLAVR, SIZLF, XFRT, WTPSD, SFDUR, SDPDV, PODUR, THRSH, SDPRO, SDLIP were evaluated. The model was calibrated and evaluated with the days to flowering, days to physiological maturity, biomass at maturity and seed cotton yield during 2019 in all different dates of sowing. The Suvin cotton variety was used in the experiments which are grown under ideal conditions with no water or nutrient limitations in monitoring site of farmerâ€™s field. The model simulated values for days to flowering and days to physiological maturity were similar to the observed data, with an RMSE of less than 4 days. The highest simulated biomass yield at harvest maturity was found to be 3211 kg ha-1 followed by 3183 kg ha-1 when crop ','DSSAT, CROPGRO- Cotton model, calibration and validation.','','',''),(3548,'107','Seed Biopriming Improved Growth and Morpho-physiological Traits in Early Vegetative Phase of Compact Cotton','K. Ragadevi, P. Jeyakumar*, M. Djanaguiraman, T. Kalaiselvi, L. Arul, L. Mahalingam, V. Ravichandran and S. Anandakumar','178 Seed Biopriming Improved Growth and Morpho-physiological Traits in Early Vegetative Phase of Compact Cotton K. Ragadevi.pdf','',1,'Cotton is commonly known as â€œWhite goldâ€ and â€œKing of natural fibreâ€ owing to its higher economic value amid the cash crops. The use of plant growth-promoting rhizobacteria (PGPR) is a promising alternative tool to improve plant efficiency for effective utilization of fertilizers by cotton. PGPR as biofertilizer favours increase in crop productivity in terms of yield and quality. Plant bacterial interactions in the rhizosphere are the determinants of plant health and soil fertility. However, more studies into the impact of seed biopriming on cotton plant growth and development is needed. This study aims to evaluate the potential of seed priming with PGPR strains to promote growth in cotton plants. Shoot length, root length, shoot dry matter, root dry matter, total dry matter, plant growth traits, chlorophyll content and index, soluble protein and normalized difference vegetation index were analysed. The highest shoot length and root length was 47.0 and 19.6 cm and the highest s','Cotton, Azospirillum, Pink pigmented facultative methylotrophs, phosphobacteria and potash bacteria and growth traits.','','',''),(3549,'107','Effect of Foaming Agent and Anti-caking Agent Concentration on Moisture Content, Water Activity and Overall Acceptability of Sapota Fruit Powder','Bharai R.B.*, Dev Raj, Mayani J.M., Patel N.V. and Sangani S.L.','179 Effect of Foaming Agent and Anti-caking Agent Concentration on Moisture Content, Water Activity and Overall Acceptability of Sapota Fruit Powder Bharai R.B.pdf','',1,'The experiment was conducted to developed a methodology standardize the process for foam mat drying of sapota pulp for preparation of free flowing powder and to study the storage stability of the developed products. Dehydration of sapota pulp of ripe fruits is also difficult due to presence of soluble sugar. Cabinet tray drying can be used for dehydration of sapota pulp but foam mat drying is an economical alternative to drum, spray and freezeâ€drying for the production of fruit powders. The foam mat drying of sapota pulp was done using sixteen treatments combinations comprised of four level of foaming agent [Control @ 0.00 % (F1), Medium viscous CMC @ 0.50% (F2), Medium viscous CMC @ 1.00% (F3), Medium viscous CMC @ 1.50% (F4) and four level of anti-caking agent [Control @ 0.00 % (A1), SiO2 @ 0.50 % (A2), SiO2 @ 1.00 % (A3) and SiO2 @ 1.50 % (A4)]. The results of investigation indicated that sapota pulp powder can be prepared by foaming agent 1.50 per cent medium viscous CMC by mec','Foaming agent, anti-caking agent, moisture content, water activity, powder, Overall acceptability.','','',''),(3550,'107','Effect of Moisture content on some Electrical Properties of Rice Bran by using LCRQ Meter','E. Gowthami*, D.D. Smith, L. Edukondalu, Vimala Beera and V. Srinivasa Rao','180 Effect of Moisture content on some Electrical Properties of Rice Bran by using LCRQ Meter E. Gowthami.pdf','',1,'Electrical properties determination is used in a variety of disciplines and industries. This paper provides a quick overview about the use of electrical properties in agricultural materials like rice bran. Electrical properties like electrical resistance, capacitance and electrical conductivity of rice bran subjected to different moisture contents (9.4, 12, 15, 20, 25, 30 & 35% w.b.) for ohmic heating were determined through LCRQ meter. Experimental data was analyzed by one way ANOVA through MS-Excel. Results showed that capacitance and electrical conductivity were significantly (P<0.05) increased with increase in moisture contents (i.e., from 9.4 to 35%) where as the resistance significantly (P<0.05) decreased with increased moisture contents. Correlation equations for resistance, capacitance and electrical conductivity against moisture content with R2 values of 0.983, 0.99 & 0.983 respectively were developed. The meanÂ±standard deviation for capacitance and resistance were observed a','Electrical properties, Capacitance, Resistance, Electrical Conductivity and LCRQ meter.','','',''),(3551,'107',' Pseudomonas based Formulation for Biocontrol of Sclerotium rolfsii causing Collar rot of Chickpea','Ritesh Kumar*, Priya Bhargava and Diksha Sinha','181 Pseudomonas based Formulation for Biocontrol of Sclerotium rolfsii causing Collar rot of Chickpea Ritesh Kumar.pdf','',1,'Collar rot disease caused by soil borne fungus, Sclerotium rolfsii is an important disease of chickpea that causes significant losses every year. The soil borne nature of pathogen makes it difficult to manage by the use of other management practices except biocontrol agents due to its various mechanism of action. The present investigation is on antagonistic ability of Pseudomonas fluorescens, a potent Plant Growth Promoting Rhizobacteria (PGPR), isolated from the root zone Amaranthus viridis, against collar rot pathogen. The PGPR reflected good antagonistic activity against five different soil borne plant pathogenic fungi viz. Sclerotium rolfsii, Rhizoctonia solani, Fusarium solani, F. oxysporum and Botrytis cinerea, and showed maximum inhibition (70.56%) against S. rolfsii and minimum against F. solani (33.61%). The talcum based formulation of the PGPR, showed highest population of 9.07 Log CFU g-1 in the formulation after 1 month while decreased gradually with increase in storage mon','Disease incidence, PGPR, Pseudomonas fluorescens, Soil-borne plant pathogens, Talc. ','','',''),(3552,'107','Efficiency of Foliar Applied Nanonutrients (Nitrogen, Zinc and Copper) on Growth and Yield of Rice at Harvest','P. Chandana*, K. R. Latha, C. R. Chinnamuthu, P. Malarvizhi and A. Lakshmanan','182 Efficiency of Foliar Applied Nanonutrients _Nitrogen, Zinc and Copper_ on Growth and Yield of Rice at Harvest P. Chandana.pdf','',1,'A field experiment was conducted during rabi 2020-21 at the Wetland farms of Department of Agronomy, Tamil Nadu Agricultural University, Coimbatore to study the effect of foliar nanonutrients (N, Zn and Cu) application on the growth and grain yield at harvest of transplanted rice. Twelve treatments with three replications were laid out in randomized complete block design. The results revealed that application of 100% NPK + Nano N at active tillering showed highest plant height (88.93 cm), leaf area (38.98 cm2), number of leaves (90.64) and drymatter production (105.32 g plant-1) at harvest of rice which was at par with 75% N + 100% PK + Nano N at active tillering (87.92 cm, 36.87 cm2, 82.52, 101.54 g plant-1) and 100% NPK + Nano Zn at active tillering and panicle emergence (87.65 cm, 36.43 cm2, 77.38, 98.42 g plant-1). The highest number of total tillers hill-1, productive tillers hill-1 at harvest and grain yield was recorded with the application of 100% NPK + Nano N at active tilleri','Nano nitrogen; nano zinc; nano copper; foliar application; rice; tiller production.','','',''),(3553,'107','Physico-chemical Changes during Growth and Development of different Varieties of mango (Mangifera indica L.) under Western Maharashtra','P.S. Jadhav*, S.B. Jadhav and V.K. Garande','183 Physico-chemical Changes during Growth and Development of different Varieties of mango _Mangifera indica L._ under Western Maharashtra Jadhav P. S.pdf','',1,'The present investigation was carried at Instructional-cum- Research farm of the Department of Horticulture, Mahatma Phule Krishi Vidyapeeth, Rahuri during 2020-2021 with ten mango varieties in Randomized Block design with three replications. To get full marketable potential it is important to evaluate the cultivars and also to get quality fruits it should be harvested at proper stage of maturity. The physico-chemical parameters were studied in present investigation. The data revealed that, Sai Sugandh recorded maximum length at marble stage (3.28 cm), egg stage (8.10 cm), mature stage (18.83 cm) and ripe stage (18.77 cm) of growth. Cultivar Rajapuri reported maximum diameter at ripe stage (12.87 cm), maximum fruit weight at egg stage (85.33 g), mature stage (603.00 g) and ripe stage (594.00 g) and maximum volume at mature stage (593.33 ml) and at ripe stage (586.67 ml). Vanraj recorded maximum fruit volume at marble stage (7.77 ml) and egg stage (81.83 ml). Marked variation was observ','Physico-chemical, TSS, growth and development, quality, mango. ','','',''),(3554,'107','Effect on Yield and Yield Components of Wheat under Poplar based Agroforestry System','Pallavi Bhatt*, Salil K. Tewari, Meenakshi Bisht and Harshita Negi','184 Effect on Yield and Yield Components of Wheat under Poplar based Agroforestry System Pallavi Bhatt.pdf','',1,'The global community faces a dual challenge of fulfilling the nutritional requirements of rising population while still remaining environmentally and socially sustainable. Agroforestry being a low-input technology, has been found to improve food production in addition to maintain sustainability in developing countries like India. Therefore, the major challenge is to develop improved annual crop varieties that are well adapted to be grown in agroforestry systems at an ideal population density. The experiment was conducted to study growth and yield components of wheat under poplar based agroforestry and identify well adapted varieties. The research comprised of three factors, (1) two types of environments viz. open farming and under shade of poplar trees (2) eight wheat varieties and (3) three levels of plant population densities viz. high, medium and low. A split- split plot design was used to study the influence of these three factors on wheat growth parameters. A highly significant in','Agroforestry, shade tolerance, yield components, Plant population density, Population stress, Varietal response. ','','',''),(3555,'107','Effect of Two Different Dates of Sowing on Genetic Variability of \r\nMorpho-Physiological Traits in Advance Lines of Wheat (Triticum aestivum L.)\r\n','Aashu*, Y.P.S. Solanki, Divya Phougat and Tanya Barpanda','185 Effect of Two Different Dates of Sowing on Genetic Variability of Morpho-Physiological Traits in Advance Lines of Wheat Triticum aestivum L. Aashu.pdf','',1,'Wheat (Triticum aestivum L.) is a staple crop that feeds hundreds of millions of people, but global climate change is predicted to reduce wheat yields by 6% for every 1Â°C increase in temperature. The estimation of genetic parameters that avail to decide breeding strategies may vary with environmental conditions, so it is critical to conduct studies in various environments. An experiment was conducted to evaluate the performance of 48 genotypes of wheat under two environments i.e. timely and late sown conditions, for assessment of mean performance, variability, correlation, and path analysis of 16 morpho-physiological traits at research area of Wheat and Barley Section, Department of Genetics and Plant Breeding, CCS HAU, Hisar during Rabi 2019-20. The results showed that estimates of phenotypic variance were higher than their corresponding genotypic variances, indicating the influence of the environment. High heritability associated with high genetic advance was reflected for CTD 1 an','Wheat, correlation, path analysis, heat stress, timely sown, late sown, yield.','','',''),(3556,'107','Evaluation of Newly Developed Bt Cotton (Cry 1Ac) Genotypes for Seed Cotton Yield under Ultra High Density Planting System in Cotton (Gossypium hirsutum L.)','Baig K.S.*, Gaikwad A.R., Chinchane V.N., Pandagale A.D. and Surewad S.V.','186 Evaluation of Newly Developed Bt Cotton _Cry 1Ac_ Genotypes for Seed Cotton Yield Under Ultra High Density Planting System in Cotton _Gossypium hirsutum L._ Baig K.S.pdf','',1,'Cotton being cash crop of rainfed growers have low productivity urging genotype wise change in plant density in particular. Bt cotton varieties having â€˜Cry1Acâ€™ gene will reduce the cost of production of resource poor farmers. Hence, a field experiment was conducted to evaluate newly developed Bt cotton (BG I) genotypes of Gossypium hirsutum under Ultra High Density Planting System during kharif season 2019-20 at Cotton Research Station, Nanded. The experiment was laid out in FRBD design consisting of two factors of plant densities viz. 45 Ã— 10 cm2 (2.22 lakh plants/ha), 45 Ã— 15 cm2 (1.48 lakh plants/ha) and 45 Ã— 22.5 cm2 (0.98 lakh plants/ha) in main plots and seven genotypes of Gossypium hirsutum cotton in sub plots with three replications. Density 0.98 lakh/ha (spacing 45 Ã— 22.5 cm) out yielded significantly over density 2.22 lakh/ha (spacing 45 Ã— 10 cm) for seed cotton yield. Genotype NH 1901 Bt (1458 kg/ha) and NH 1904 Bt (1458 kg/ha) were found significant over checks, NH','Ultra high density planting, seed cotton yield, Bt cotton genotype, spacing.','','',''),(3557,'107','Pollen Germination and Morphology of Black Pepper (Piper nigrum L.)','Pooja S., Sreekala G. S. and Vijaykumar B. Narayanapur*','187 Pollen Germination and Morphology of Black Pepper _Piper nigrum L._ VIJAYAKUMAR B. NARAYANAPUR.pdf','',1,'The pollen morphology and germination of black pepper var. Panniyur 1 was studied using Stereomicroscopic and Scanning Electron Microscopic (SEM). The number of anthers in each flower was four and was uniform in all fifty flowers. Anther dehiscence occurred from 11 am and continued till 4 pm and was maximum at 2-3 pm. The number of pollen grains per inflorescence varied from 5,01,500 - 7,00,000. The pollen grains are monosulcate with the mean polar diameter of 10.414 Âµm and the mean equatorial diameter of 6.309 Âµm having an exine thickness of 924.8 nm. Acetocarmine test revealed that 91 per cent of the pollen were fertile. The pollen viability percentage by TTC stain and IKI stain was 91.03and 92.4 per cent respectively. In vitro germination in Brewbakers- Kwack medium at 5, 10, 20 and 30 per cent sucrose showed highest pollen germination at 5 per cent sucrose.','Anther dehiscence, Pollen viability, Pollen fertility, in vitro germination, Black pepper.','','',''),(3558,'107','Diversity of Spiders in Paddy Ecosystem of Middle Gujarat','Raghunandan B.L.*, Patel, N.M. and Patel, N.B.','188 Diversity of Spiders in Paddy Ecosystem of Middle Gujarat Raghunandan, B. L.pdf','',1,'Spiders play a significant role in agro-ecosystem as predators. The knowledge on the diversity and abundance of spider species in crucial in developing ecologically sound pest management strategies. A study was carried out to document the diversity of spiders in paddy growing area of middle Gujarat. Tarapur (Lat. 22.4877806 & Long. 72.6582336) area of Anand district of Gujarat was selected for the survey during the year 2017-18, 2018-19 and 2019-20. Periodical surveys were conducted for the collection of spiders from paddy ecosystem. The different indices viz., species richness, species diversity and species evenness were calculated. The family Araneidae was observed to be the dominant one with maximum number of species- four species (44.44%), five species (71.43%) and seven species (43.75%) in the year 2017-18, 2018-19 and 2019-20 respectively. The Agriope sp. and Neoscona theisi were found to be the dominant species during the study period. The highest Simpsonâ€™s diversity index (D)','Spider, diversity, paddy, araneidae, species richness.','','',''),(3559,'107','Inheritance of Seed Related Characters in Soybean Crosses','Sanjana Pathak* and P.S. Shukla','189 Inheritance of Seed Related Characters in Soybean Crosses Sanjana Pathak.pdf','',1,'Soybean seed quality and appearance influence the desirability of seed in the consumer market. It has been reported that seed coat colour and hilum colour are affected by the genes controlling pubescence and flower colour. To achieve concomitant improvement of seed quality and yield in practical plant breeding, it is necessary to explore the genetics of inheritance of seed quality characters in soybean. In this study, chi-square test was used to analyse the inheritance of four traits i.e. seed coat colour, hilum colour, pubescence colour and flower colour in the F2 derived seed of five crosses made using nine soybean genotypes. Seed coat colour depicted simple monogenic inheritance as the ratios 3:1 and 9:3:4 fitted in three crosses i.e. DT-21 Ã— BHATT, AGS-25Ã—JS- 335 and PS-1556Ã— EC- 389148. Hilum colour expressed several phenotypes that obeyed simple monogenic ratio of 3:1 and 9:3:4 in crosses DT-21 Ã— PS-24, PS-1347Ã—PS1241 and DT-21 Ã— BHATT. Purple flower colour dominated over ','Glycine max, seed coat colour, seed morphology, black soybean','','',''),(3560,'107','Heterosis in Oat (Avena sativa L.) for various Agro-Morphological, Yield and Quality Traits','Amit Rana, V.K. Sood, Priyanka* and Sawan Kumar','190 Heterosis in Oat _Avena sativa L._ For Various Agro-Morphological, Yield and Quality Traits Amit Rana.pdf','',1,'The objective of the present study was to estimate the level of heterosis for different agro-morphological, yield attributing and quality traits in oat. A total of 40 F1 hybrids along with parents and standard check PLP-1 were evaluated in RBD with three replications during Rabi 2018-19. Analysis of variance revealed significant differences among parents, genotypes and hybrids for almost all the traits indicating sufficient genetic variability in the material. UPO-130 Ã— JPO-46 showed promising heterosis for green fodder yield and seed yield. HJ-8 Ã— JPO-46 exhibited desirable acid detergent fibre, neutral detergent fibre and highest Î²-glucan content. Based on mean performance, heterosis studies and resistance to powdery mildew, cross combinations KRR-AK-26 Ã— JPO-46, Kent Ã— JPO-46 and PLP-14 Ã— UPO-30 were found best and can be expected to throw transgressive segregants. Thus, these hybrids can be further evaluated at multilocation trials and commercially exploited through heterosis','Oat, heterosis, heterobeltiosis, ADF, NDF and Î²-glucan.','','',''),(3561,'107','Exploring Genetic Variability and Assessment of Genetic Parameters for Grain yield, Morpho-physiological, Nutritional Traits in Pearl Millet (Pennisetum glaucum (L.) R. Br.)','B. Santhosh Kumar Naik*, M. Reddi Sekhar, P. Shanthi, P. Sudhakar, P. Sujathamma and O. Venkateswarlu','191 Exploring Genetic Variability and Assessment of Genetic Parameters for Grain yield, Morpho-physiological, Nutritional Traits in Pearl Millet Pennisetum glaucum L. R. Br. B. Santhosh Kumar Naik.pdf','',1,'Seventy genotypes which includes fifty hybrids and fifteen parents along with five checks of pearl millet were studied for fifteen economically important characters to estimate variability, heritability (broad sense) and genetic advance. This study was aimed to realize the magnitude of variability among hybrids developed through crossing between inbreed lines and along with highly adaptable checks diverse origin and also to forecast the pearl millet biofortification prospects for essential micronutrients. Higher Phenotypic coefficient of variation (PCV) was observed than genotypic coefficient of variation (GCV) for all the characters under study suggesting the role of environment in the expression of these characters. High amount of genotypic coefficient of variation (GCV) for Grain yield, green fodder yield, dry fodder yield and harvest index also moderate estimates of GCV were observed for number of productive tillers per plant, plant height, panicle length, 1000 grain weight, relati','Variability, heritability, genetic advance, yield, Pearl millet.','','',''),(3562,'107','Genetic Divergence among Oat (Avena sativa L.) Genotypes under Dual purpose and Seed Yield related Systems','Priyanka, V.K. Sood, Amit Rana* and Sawan Kumar','192 Genetic Divergence among Oat _Avena sativa L._ Genotypes under Dual purpose and Seed Yield Related Systems Priyanka.pdf','',1,'The present study was conducted during Rabi season 2018-19 with 58 diverse oat genotypes in order to study genetic diversity for different agro-morphological and quality traits among dual purpose and seed yield purpose systems separately. Based on D2 statistic, genotypes were grouped into 12 clusters in case of dual purpose system whereas 11 clusters in seed related system. The inter-cluster distances were observed to be higher than intra-cluster. Cluster I emerged as the largest cluster followed by Cluster II under both the systems. Among both the systems, Î²- glucan content contributed maximum towards genetic divergence followed by crude protein content of seed while the lowest by leaf: stem ratio and harvest index under dual purpose and seed yield purpose systems, respectively. Genotypes IG-03-205, EC-528883 and OS-6 were found more diverse under both the systems which can be utilized in future hybridization programmes.','Oat; genetic diversity; hybridization; nutritional quality.','','',''),(3563,'107','Spider Silk from Silk Worm: An Innovative Venture towards Super Silk','Ipsita Samal* and Bhupen Kumar Sahu','193 Spider Silk from Silk Worm An Innovative Venture towards Super Silk Ipsita Samal.pdf','',1,'Silk production is an age long practice in this world. Recent development in silk industry brings huge potential by exposing the silk industry to genetic engineering, proteomics and medical sciences. Genetic engineering has significant contribution in bringing the best out of silk production by adding non-commercial silks to produce some innovative approaches. Spider silk when mixed or incorporated with the silk producing genes of the silkworm does the miracle of super silk production. In this context, super silk evolution along with its broad genetic usage will be enlightened and the hidden areas are discussed thoroughly. The collection of reviews is emphasized to enlighten the importance of spider silk and its utility in absence of the naturally grown silks obtained from silkworms. As the materials related to spider silk are scanty, this review paper is of utmost effort to provide all the information regarding the same. ','Silkworm, Spider silk, Genetic engineering, Goat silk.','','',''),(3564,'107','Yield Evaluation of Red Rice Land Races of Tamil Nadu under Organic Practices','Darthiya M.*, Subbalakshmi Lokanadhan, Muralidharan C., Sankaran V.M., Lakshmanan A., Meena S. and Ravichandran V.','194 Yield Evaluation of Red Rice Land Races of Tamil Nadu under Organic Practices Darthiya M.pdf','',1,'Red rice has not been given its due importance due to the emergence of white rice as a predominant staple food since the advent of green revolution. Although the scientific community is totally aware of its wonders as a source of minerals, protein and antioxidants, yet alone they cannot make a significant mark without an immense market potential demand. In recent times, demand for red rice land races is on the increasing trend among the common people due to increased awareness on red rice health benefits. This higher demand favours the small and marginal farmers to market their produce at comparatively higher prices than the high yielding varieties and thus they get benefited good returns from less inputs even under aberrant weather conditions. So, on farmers point of interest, studies on red rice production under organic practices is a need of hour as organic practices minimizes farm inputs (excluding agrochemicals). Therefore, study was put forth with an objective to identify the bes','Red rice, land races, yield, vermicompost, azospirillum, phosphobacteria, PPFM. ','','',''),(3565,'107','Estimation of Heterosis for Grain Yield and its related Traits over the Environments in Maize (Zea mays L.)','Gaurav Sharma*, Uttam Chandel, Jatin Sharma and Satish Kumar Guleria','195 Estimation of Heterosis for Grain Yield and its Related Traits over the Environments in Maize _Zea mays L._ Gaurav Sharma.pdf','',1,'The study of standard heterosis among maize germplasm is essential to maximize the effectiveness of cultivars selection. The present investigation was carried out to estimate the heterosis in maize hybrids developed through crossing eight elite inbred lines in half diallel mating design. The experimental material consisted of 8 parental genotypes, their 28 crosses and two checks viz., Palam Sankar Makka-2 and Bio-9544. The experimental material was evaluated in RBD with two replications during Kharif, 2019 at two different environments representing different agroclimatic and ecological conditions of North-Western Himalayas i.e. SAREC, Kangra (E1) and HAREC, Bajaura (E2). Data was recorded on various agro-morphological traits. Bartlettâ€™s test revealed that error variance was homogeneous for days to 50% pollen shed, days to 50% silking, days to 75% brown husk, ear circumference, 1000-grain weight and grain yield. Standard heterosis (%) for grain yield ranged from -52.34 (P4 Ã— P7) to 1','Heterosis, Pooled Environment, Half Diallel Analysis, Zea mays L.','','',''),(3566,'107','Analysis of Volatile Metabolic Compounds for Tracking Symptomatic Infection of Fusarium solani infection causing Fusarium Wilt in Brinjal Plant','Chandrika R.*, Theradimani M., Thiruvudainambi S., Shanthi M., Renuka R. and Brindhadevi S.','196 Analysis of Volatile Metabolic Compounds for Tracking Symptomatic Infection of Fusarium solani infection causing Fusarium Wilt in Brinjal Plant Chandrika R.pdf','',1,'Brinjal (Solanum melongina L.) is an economically important crop grown in India, however the plant is susceptible to different of fungal diseases, resulting in low crop production. The pathogenic fungus was isolated from diseased plant parts in this research and identified as Fusarium solani f. sp. melongenae based on morphological and cultural features. To control the soil-borne diseases in brinjal with the use of chemicals under in field condition is hazardous. For eco-friendly and sustainable management of the disease the excellent potential of effective Bio control Trichoderma were used. Potential antagonists Trichoderma\'s antifungal properties have been observed in various of contexts as a means of controlling a wide range of soil-borne diseases. Trichoderma secrete chitinases, proteases which degrade Fusarium solani fungal cell walls to liberate the oligomers, causing exochitinases and to begin myco parasitism strategies. To examine the antagonistic activity of Trichoderma dual c','Eggplant, Fusarium solani, Trichoderma spp, Antagonism, secondary metabolites.','','',''),(3567,'107','Tillage Practices, Nutrient Levels and Foliar Sprays Effect on Nutrient Content of Redgram [Cajanus cajan L.] at Different Growth Stages','Gurrala Suresh*, A.V. Nagavani, V. Sumathi, T. Giridhara Krishna and P. Sudhakar','197 Tillage Practices, Nutrient Levels and Foliar Sprays Effect on Nutrient Content of Redgram [Cajanus cajan L.] at Different Growth Stages Gurrala Suresh.pdf','',1,'A field experiment was conducted during the kharif seasons of 2019-20 and 2020-21 to study the influence of tillage practices, nutrient levels and foliar sprays on nutrient content of redgram [Cajanus cajan (L.)] on sandy loam soil which was low in available nitrogen, medium in available phosphorus and available potassium. The experiment was conducted in a split-split plot design, consisting of three tillage practices in main plots, three nutrient doses in sub-plots and three foliar sprays in sub-sub plots. Higher nutrient content of redgram was recorded with vertical tillage with subsoiler upto 60 cm deep at 1 m interval with application of 125 % RDF along with foliar application of KNO3 1 % twice with 15 days interval from 50 per cent flowering stage.','Tillage practices, nutrient levels, foliar sprays, nutrient content and redgram.','','',''),(3568,'106','Relative Safety of Newer Insecticides to Spiders in Okra Ecosystem','Bhupender Singh*, Ram Karan Gaur and Anil Jakhar','9 Relative Safety of Newer Insecticides to Spiders in Okra Ecosystem Bhupender Singh.pdf','',1,'The indiscriminate use of pesticides has resulted into various consequences most importantly the destruction of natural enemies. So prior to inclusion of any insecticide in pest management programme, its insecticidal properties, mammalian toxicity and safety to natural enemies must be evaluated. In this context, a study was conducted in Hisar (Haryana) to assess the relative safety of newer insecticides to natural enemies when used against okra shoot and fruit borers during kharif 2019 and 2020. Experiment was laid out in randomized block design in plot size of 5 ï‚´ 4 m with three replications for each treatment. Insecticides viz. chlorantaniliprole 18.5 SC, emamectin benzoate 5 SG, Pyridalyl 10 EC, lambda-cyhalothrin 5 EC, cypermethrin 25 EC quinalphos 25 EC were applied thrice at 25, 6.75, 15, 50, 37 and 200 g a.i. per ha, respectively. Results revealed that among various insecticides, application of chlorantaniliprole 18.5 SC and emamectin benzoate 5 SG did not cause any significan','Spiders, newer insecticides, okra, relative safety, natural enemies.','','',''),(3569,'104','Striga todgarhica (Orobanchaceae)- A new parasitic species from Todgarh-Raoli Wildlife Sanctuary, Rajasthan, India','C.S. Purohit','6_JNBR_10_2__2021.pdf','',1,'A new species of Striga from Todgarh-Raoli Wildlife Sanctuary of Rajasthan, India is described and illustrated as Striga todgarhica sp. nov. The new species shows similarity with S. asiatica in having a densely hispid stem, linear leaves and one calyx-rib terminating the tip of each lobe and others rib in the sinus, but differ in the densely hairy leaves, 13-ribbed on calyx, densely hispid along ribs, calyx lobe narrow triangular, half the length of calyx tube, corolla tube up to 2 cm long, lower lip tri â€“ tetra partite, white. A detailed description, with data on distribution with relevant taxonomic notes and colour photographs are provided here for their easy identification.','New species, Orobanchaceae, Striga, Todgarh-Raoli, Rajasthan.','','',''),(3572,'104','Avifaunal diversity of Jodhpur Jhal Wetland Mathura (Uttar Pradesh) India: A preliminary survey','Krishan Pratap Singh*, Muzafar Riyaz , Gajendra Singh , Shammi Syed','7_JNBR_10_2__2021.pdf','',1,'The present study is the first preliminary checklist of Birds from Jodhpur Jhal Wetland, Mathura (Uttar Pradesh), India. The area is located in Farah Block of District Mathuraâ€™s Koah village Panchayat close to NH-2 (Agra- Mathura National Highway) Uttar Pradesh, India. The survey was carried out between 2019 to 2021. A total number of 181 bird species were observed and most of them were photographed as well. The identification was done using field guides, relevant literature, expert suggestions and online bird data depositories. The observed 181 species belong to 57 orders of the class Aves and the highest number of birds were observed belong to the order Passeriformes. Out of the 181 species recorded from the observation period, 169 species recorded were among Least Concern (LC) category followed by 3 species in Vulnerable (VU) category, 1 species in Endangered (EN) category and 8 species in Nearly Threatened (NT) category. Among the total observed species, the highest number of the','Avifauna, Biodiversity, first checklist, Jodpur Jhal Wetland, Mathura, India.','','',''),(3573,'104','First record of the Pelagic stingray, Pteroplatytrygon violacea (Bonaparte, 1832), in Albanian seas','Andrej A. GajiÄ‡ , Simo Ribaj','8_JNBR_10_2__2021.pdf','',1,'The very first finding of the Pelagic stingray, Pteroplatytrygon violacea (Bonaparte, 1832) (Elasmobranchii: Myliobatiformes: Dasyatidae), in Albanian seas is reported in this paper. Female specimen was recorded in August 2021 at Gjiri i VlorÃ«s at the depth of 25 m and was collected for further examination. The specimen measured 43.18 cm WD, and 101 cm in TL and weighted 2.730 g in total weight. There were 25 upper tooth rows and 23 lower tooth rows, which is less than previously described for this species. No gross pathological changes were observed, nor parasites. Although there were no previous reports in the territorial waters of Albanian territorial waters of the southern Adriatic and northern Ionian Seas, it can be attributed to the lack of studies and lack of proper monitoring in fisheries. Despite importance of the record on the state level, based on our regional research we believe that the Pelagic stingray is not rare species and could be encountered in waters not too far of','Adriatic, Albania, biodiversity, ionian, stingray.','','',''),(3574,'107','Assessing Perception and Coping Strategies to Changing Climate by Sample Farmers of Northern Dry Zone of Karnataka','Almaszabeen Badekhan* and Mahantesh R. Nayak','198 Assessing Perception and Coping Strategies to Changing Climate by Sample Farmers of Northern Dry Zone of Karnataka Almaszabeen Badekhan.pdf','',1,'Climate change has been the biggest global threat of the 21st century. The climate continues to heat up and its impact grows more severe. Agriculture farmers around the world are increasingly challenged. The human-induced changes in climate are adding pressures on global agricultural and food systems. Changing climate and agriculture are interrelated and it has become a serious threat to Indian agriculture by affecting crop production and livelihood activities. The farmersâ€™ responses to changing climate are often dependent on their perceptions and their coping strategies on climate change. Therefore, it becomes necessary to understand the nature perception and coping strategies that are feasible and practiced at the farm level. Multistage sampling was adopted to select and interview 240 rain-fed farmers of the Northern Dry Zone of Karnataka. The most common perception was the decreased crop yield with a Weighted Average Index (WAI) of 2.85 followed by droughts (WAI=2.77). The relat','Coping strategy, Change in climate, Garrett score, Northern dry zone, Perception, WAI.','','',''),(3575,'107','Cyclone Gaja in Tamil Nadu: Constraints faced by Coconut Growers in the Post-Disaster Phase','Vignesh Kumar S.* and Murugan P.P.','199 Cyclone Gaja in Tamil Nadu Constraints faced by Coconut Growers in the Post-Disaster Phase Vignesh Kumar S.pdf','',1,'The past decade witnessed many disasters, especially with the cyclones wreaking havoc in agriculture. Severe cyclonic storm Gaja destroyed lakhs of coconut trees in the Delta region of Tamil Nadu. The need for identifying and understand the constraints faced by the coconut growers in the post disaster phase was clearly evident and taken up for the study. A sample of 211 farmers selected based on Proportionate Random Sampling method in Thanjavur district of Tamil Nadu, were interviewed for the study. The constraints faced in disaster response and disaster recovery phases were identified through pilot study and validated among the respondents by employing Garett ranking and Rank based quotient approaches. Lack of knowledge on disaster response was found to be the foremost constraint with a Garett value of 58.63, while the constraints faced in disaster recovery was classified into three categories namely Operational, Economic and Socio- Psychological Constraints and ranked by the farmers ','Constraints, Cyclone, Disaster Response, Disaster Recovery.','','',''),(3576,'107','Production of Fruit Powders and Formulation of Instant Probiotic Fruit Powders Mix','S. Mounika, M. Saipranavi, R. Swamy and J. Sai Prasad*','200 Production of Fruit Powders and Formulation of Instant Probiotic Fruit Powders Mix J. Sai Prasad.pdf','',1,'Indian climate has diverse suitable for availability of all varieties of natural fruits & vegetables and which are perishables. The main aim of this work is to prepare the dried fruit powder mix with the addition of probiotic bacteria without loss of natural properties. Drying (dehydration) is the widely used classical methods for preservation of agricultural products. Two drying methods (solar and oven) were used to dry the Apple, Mango, Orange, Sapota and Grapes. The Grapes took high time 10 days (240 hrs) and 6 days (144 hrs) time was required for remaining four fruits drying with both methods. Proximate analysis of solar dried and Hot air oven dried fruits powders, Sapota fruit powder having highest content of protein (0.92%, 0.89%), fat (1.1%, 1.3%), carbohydrates (25%, 31%) and calcium (15.3mg/100gm, 14.9mg/100gm) compare to other fruit powders. With respect to the microbiological parameters of dried powders, we acquire results meeting the limits set by the ISO standard which mak','Oven; Solar dryer; Sensory evaluation; Proximate & Microbial analysis; Lactobacillus casei shirota.','','',''),(3577,'107','Coping Strategies of Parents having Children with Special Needs (CWSN)','Sushmita Borah* and Sampreety Gogoi','201 Coping Strategies of Parents having Children with Special Needs CWSN Sushmita Borah.pdf','',1,'Parents having a child with special needs often experience a stressful life than those having a normally developing child. They go through a variety of stressors resulting from their childâ€™s disability. They experience a higher level of stress in bringing up their child as they require more parental support and attention as compared to normally developing children. It is observed that parents having children with special needs are affected in many ways which may persist throughout their life. Understanding various ways of coping is important, as it will help parents to choose effective coping skills to yield a significant impact in their child-rearing process. So, an attempt was made by the researcher to identify the various coping strategies adopted by these parents in raising their children with special needs. It was found that the majority of the parents tend to use one or more means of active coping strategies to cope with their childâ€™s disability. Necessary adjustments with sk','Children with special needs, disability, parenting, stress, coping-strategies, health, support, well-being.','','',''),(3578,'107','Development of Mango and Mint Leaves Powder by using different Drying Techniques -A Comparative Study','Anusha B., Haritha G., Krishna Y.N. and Salla Sowjanya*','202 Development of Mango and Mint Leaves Powder by using different Drying Techniques -A Comparative Study Salla Sowjanya.pdf','',1,'Drying is one of the oldest methods of preservation and involves removal of relatively small proportions of water by thermal means via the vapor phase. Drying is a simultaneous heat and mass transfer process. Dried foods can be stored for long periods without deterioration occurring. This eventually results in shelf-stable products with improved packaging and transportation properties. Kale pyri variety of mango powder is rich in Vitamin-C and antioxidants. Spear mint powder is particularly good source of Vitamin-A. The three drying techniques are tray, solar and microwave dryings are compared and analysed the moisture, fat, ash in both mango and mint leaves powder and also vitamin C in mango powder and chlorophyll, carotenoids in mint leaves powder were estimated. Trays drying of mango at different drying treatments are following T1, T2 & T3 is 45Â°C for 6.5 hours, 50Â°C for 6 hours & 60Â°C for 5 hours respectively. Trays drying of mint leaves at different drying treatments are follow','Mangoes, Mint leaves, solar drying, microwave drying and tray drying.','','',''),(3579,'107','Weed Dynamics in Flue Cured Tobacco Crop as Influenced by Pre Transplant, Pre Emergence and Post Emergence Herbicides in Northern Light Soils of Andhra Pradesh','MNVA Uma Mahesh*, K. Srinivasan, C.R. Chinnamuthu, S. Shanmugasundaram, C.N. Chandrasekhar and P. Srinivas','203 Weed Dynamics in Flue Cured Tobacco Crop as Influenced by Pre Transplant, Pre Emergence and Post Emergence Herbicides in Northern MNVA Uma Mahesh.pdf','',1,'One of the major challenges in flue cured (FC) tobacco is achieving effective weed control during early growth stages. Creating weed free conditions to facilitate early growth is extremely critical, however due to peak agricultural activity during the establishment phase, availability of labour is a major constraint. Grasses, broad leaved weeds and sedges constitute the weed flora infesting tobacco. Dominant weed species are Echinochloa colona, Digitaria sanguinalis, Dactyloctenium aegyptium, Echinochloa crusgalli, Cleome viscosa, Amaranthus viridis, Cyperus compressus and Cyperus rotundus. Due to non-availability of herbicides for tobacco specific weed control, an effective weed management program could not be established. In the recent past, substantial developments happened in the introduction of new herbicide molecules. A two year field experiments were conducted at Peddpauram village of West Godavari district (Andhra Pradesh) during (Rabi) seasons of 2018-19 and 2019-20, to study ','Pre transplant herbicide, pre emergence herbicide, post emergence herbicide weed control efficiency, weed index and FC tobacco. ','','',''),(3580,'112','Antioxidant and Antibacterial Evaluation of 2,6-dimethoxy-4-((phenylamino) methyl) Phenol and 2,6-Dimethoxy-4-((4\'-nitrophenylimino)methyl) Phenol','Tanvi Sahni*, Sunita Sharma, Diksha Verma, Poonam Sharma and Sukhmannpreet Kaur','1 Antioxidant and Antibacterial Evaluation of 2,6-dimethoxy-4-__phenylamino_ methyl_ Phenol and 2,6-Dimethoxy-4-__4ï‚¢-nitrophenylimino_methyl_ Phenol Tanvi Sahni.pdf','',1,'Two noval Shiff bases i.e. 2,6-dimethoxy-4-((phenylamino) methyl)phenol (I) and 2,6-Dimethoxy-4-((4ï‚¢-nitrophenylimino)methyl)phenol (II) of syringaldehyde containing aniline as the scaffold were developed in the the lab and evaluated for their property as antioxidant using DPPH assay, FRAP assay, and phosphomolybdate assay. It was found that syringaldehyde the precursor of Schiff bases I and II had better DPPH reducing capacity while compound I was effective in reducing ferric Fe(+3) ions and 4-nitro aniline schiff base compound (II) was most effective in reducing Mo(+5) ions. The anti-microbial evaluation has proceeded for syringaldehyde and their Schiff bases I and II along with standard ampicillin against five bacteria viz Bacillus subtilis, Pseudomonas aeruginosa, Escherichia coli, Klebsiella spp., and Enterobacter spp. Compound II was more effective than standard ampicillin against P. aeruginosa only.','Syringaldehyde, aniline, 4-nitroaniline, DPPH, FRAP, Phosphomolybdate, Bacillus subtilis, Pseudomonas aeruginosa, Escherichia coli, Klebsiella spp., and Enterobacter spp.','It may be concluded that aniline Schiff bases of syringaldehyde possessed better antibacterial activity than antioxidants. They were more effective in controlling Gram-negative bacterium than Gram-positive bacterium and were found to be more effective than standard ampicillin against P. aeruginosa. There is positive interactions between compounds and bacteria at different concenterations. Syringaldehyde had better radical scavenging activity than Schiff bases in terms of DPPH assay while the reverse trend was found in the reduction of ferric Fe (+3) and Mo (+5). None of the compounds was a better antioxidant than standard ascorbic acid and BHT. Thus, possessed moderate antioxidant potential.','Ahmed, D., Khan, M. M., & Saeed, R. (2015). Comparative analysis of phenolics, flavonoids, and antioxidant and antibacterial potential of methanolic, hexanic and aqueous extracts from Adiantum caudatum leaves. Antioxidants, 4(2): 394-409.\r\nAlejandra, G. E. E., Lauro, F. V., Marcela, R. N., Maria, L. R., Francisco, D. C., Virginia, M. A., & Yazmin, O. A. (2021). Design and Synthesis of an Aniline Derivative with Biological Activity on Heart Failure. Combinatorial Chemistry & High Throughput Screening, 24(2): 220-232.\r\nBala, S., Uppal, G., Kamboj, S., Saini, V., & Prasad, D. N. (2012). Design, characterization, computational studies, and pharmacological evaluation of substituted-Nâ€²-[(1E) substituted-phenylmethylidene] benzohydrazide analogs. Medicinal Chemistry Research, 22(6): 2755-2767.\r\nBelkheiri, N., Bouguerne, B., Bedos-Belval, F., Duran, H., Berins, C., Salveyre, R., Negre-Salvayre A., & Baltas, M. (2010). Synthesis and antioxidant activity evaluation of a syringic hydrazones fam','Sahni, T.; Sharma, S.; Verma, D.; Sharma, P. and Kaur, S. (2022). Antioxidant and Antibacterial Evaluation of 2,6-dimethoxy-4-((phenylamino) methyl) Phenol and 2,6-Dimethoxy-4-((4ï‚¢-nitrophenylimino)methyl) Phenol. Biological Forum â€“ An International '),(3581,'112','Study on Soil Phosphatase Activity in Reference to Deforestation in the Shiwalik Hills of Jammu Division of Jammu and Kashmir','Rohit Kumar Arora, Sarabdeep Kaur, Lalit Upadhyay* and Vikas Sharma','2 Study on Soil Phosphatase Activity in Reference to Deforestation in the Shiwalik Hills of Jammu Division of Jammu and Kashmir Lalit Upadhyay.pdf','',1,'Deforestation is a major problem in the hilly regions, which effect the soil quality and activity. To assess the effect of deforestation, a study was conducted in Batote, Bhaderwah, Bani, Basholi, Poonch and Samba (Shiwalik hills) areas of Jammu division of Jammu and Kashmir (India) and sites of deforestation and adjacent forest area were identified. Composite surface soil samples from all the six locations were collected. Deforested sites were selected along with adjacent forest sites. Ten soil samples from each area at four depths were taken. Phosphatase activity was determined by Tabatabai and Bremner (1969) method. It is based on colorimetric determination of the p-nitro phenol released by phosphatase activity when the incubation of soil is done with p-nitro phenyl phosphate disodium salt. Results of the study showed that there was significant difference in the amount of Acid phosphatase and alkaline phosphatase in the forest and deforested areas. With moving from hills to plain ar','Acid phosphatase, Alkaline phosphatase, Deforestation, Shiwalik hills.','From the present study it may be concluded that land use changes and management practices in the forest areas influence the soil microbial parameters and enzyme activities in semiarid regions. Deforestation reduces the SOM, which limits the soil microbial activity thereby reducing SMBP, acid and alkaline phosphatase content. An increased amount of substratum quantity and quality in the forest land enhances the SOM content which increases high microbial activities. The microbial activity further affected by variation in plant species composition, SM content, and litter quality within the land use. Similar results were recorded by Singh et al. (2018), Tiwari et al. (2019) and Singha et al. (2020) in their study regarding the effect of land use change on soil.','Acosta-MartÃnez V., Mikha, M. M. and Vigil, M. F. (2007). Microbial communities and enzyme activities in soils under alternative crop rotations compared to wheat-fallow for the Central Great Plains. Appl. Soil Ecol., 37(1-2): 41â€“52. \r\nCaldwell, B. A. (2005). Enzyme activities as a component of soil biodiversity: A review. Pedobiologia (Jena), 49: 637â€“644. \r\nCelik, I. (2005). Land-use effects on organic matter and physical properties of soil in a southern Mediterranean highland of Turkey. Soil Tillage Res., 83(2): 270â€“277.\r\nChadwick, O. A. (2003). The impact of climate on the biogeochemical functioning of volcanic soils. Chem. Geol., 202: 195â€“223.\r\nCosgrove, D. J. (1967). Metabolism of organic phosphates in soil. In: McLaren AD, Peterson GH (eds) Soil biochemistry, vol. 1. Marcel Dekker, New York, pp 216â€“228. \r\nDawson, J. J. C. and Smith, P. (2007). Carbon losses from soil and its consequences for land use management. Sci. Total Environ., 382(2-3): 165â€“190.\r\nde Medeiros E','Arora, R. K.; Kaur, S.; Upadhyay, L. and Sharma, V. (2022). Study on Soil Phosphatase Activity in Reference to Deforestation in the Shiwalik Hills of Jammu Division of Jammu and Kashmir. Biological Forum â€“ An International Journal, 14(1): 08-11.'),(3582,'112','Response of Budload and Fertilizer on Berry Shape, Quality and Shot berry disorder in Grapes cv. Sahebi','Aroosa Khalil*, Nowsheen Nazir, Shaila Din, M.K. Sharma and Amit Kumar','3 Response of Budload and Fertilizer on Berry Shape, Quality and Shot berry disorder in Grapes cv. Sahebi Shaila Din.pdf','',1,'Grape (Vitis vinifera L.), belonging to Vitaceae family, is considered to be one the important fruit. Besides being delicious, it is also nutritious as it is enriched with vitamins and minerals. The matter of concern related to grape cultivation in Jammu & Kashmir is its declining productivity and also the degrading quality of the produce when compared to other major producing states of the country. The possible reason for declining productivity is the unscientific approach and inappropriate cultural practices followed by growers in its cultivation. The knowledge regarding the fertilizer requirement and the optimum budload in grapes is also limited in the valley. Thus there is the need for focusing on appropriate cultural practices so as to achieve higher quality production and also increase the productivity of grapes. Bud load and fertilizer scheduling also effect the percentage of shot berries (smaller and shrivelled berries). Thus with the objective of giving proper recommendation t','Shot berries, Budload, TSS/ Acid ratio.','Thus from the present investigation, it is clearly seen adequate bud load and fertilizer dosage has a significant effect on the percentage of shot berries as well as the sweetness index (TSS /Acid ratio) of the berries. Maintaining the budload @ â€˜128 buds/vine-16 canes with 8 buds on each caneâ€™ and applying the fertilizer dose @ â€˜FYM-50 kg/vine + 2 times recommended dose-NPK: 1110, 454, 940 g/vineâ€™ were found to be most effective in improving berry characteristics and decreasing the percentage of shot berries in grape cv. Sahebi. Further researches still needs to be conducted which focus on the scope of fertigation in high density grape orchards and organic fruit production. The comparison between the fertilizer efficacy through direct application and fertigation also needs to be assessed in future. ','A.O.A.C. (1990). Official and Tentative Methods of Analysis. Association of Official Agricultural Chemists.15th edition. Washington, D.C., USA, pp. 484.\r\nAnonymous (2018-19). District wise/kind wise area and production of major horticultural crops in Jammu and Kashmir state. Department of horticulture, Jammu and Kashmir Government.\r\nAnonymous (2019). FAO. Food and Agricultural Organization. Statistical Database on World Fruit Production. www.fao.org.\r\nChadha, K. L. and Kumar, H. (1970). Effect of pruning with constant number of total buds but number and length of canes varied on growth, yield, fruit quality and bearing behavior of Perlette grape. Indian Journal of Horticulture, 27: 123-127.\r\nCocco, A., Mercenaro, L., Muscas, E., Mura, A., Nieddu, G. and Lentini, A. (2021). Multiple effects of nitrogen fertilization on grape vegetation growth, berry quality and pest development in Mediterranean vineyards. Horticulturae, 7: 530-544.\r\nDavies, C. and Robinson, S. P. (1996). Sugar accumulat','Khalil, A.; Nazir, N.; Din, S.; Sharma, M. K. and Kumar, A. (2022). Response of Budload and Fertilizer on Berry Shape, Quality and Shot Berry Disorder in Grapes cv. Sahebi. Biological Forum â€“ An International Journal, 14(1): 12-16.'),(3583,'112','Fixation of Lethal Dose and Study of Physical and Chemical Effect of Mutagenesis on Germination, Pollen Sterility and Plant Survival in M1 Generation of Wheat (Triticum aestivum L.)','Amit Rana, Vijay Rana, Priyanka*, Shubhanshu Anubhav and Chetan Gupta','4 Fixation of Lethal Dose and Study of Physical and Chemical Effect of Mutagenesis on Germination, Pollen Sterility and Plant Survival in M1 Generation of Wheat _Triticum aestivum L._ Amit Rana.pdf','',1,'The present study comprises of four wheat varieties viz., HS 490, HPW 89, HPW 360 and HPW 251 which were treated with 12 doses each of gamma rays viz., 25Gy, 50Gy, 75Gy, 100Gy, 125Gy, 150Gy, 175Gy, 200Gy, 225Gy, 250Gy, 275Gy and 300Gy and EMS concentrations viz., 0.05%, 0.15%, 0.25%, 0.35%, 0.45%, 0.55%, 0.65%, 0.75%, 0.85%, 0.95%, 1.05% and 1.15% to study their effect on germination, pollen fertility reduction and plant survival in M1 generation under both lab and field conditions. The results showed overall reduction in germination percent, plant survival and increased pollen sterility over control in all the mutagenic treatments. LD50 values observed using probit analysis of all four varieties ranged from 0.683%-1.169% EMS concentration and 241.41-278.48 Gy. Therefore, concentrations/dose of both mutagens producing less lethality would be suitable for determining varietal effect and inducing large scale mutagenesis in future wheat breeding programmes.','Gamma rays, EMS, mutagen, germination, LD50, pollen grains, survival.','In the present study, effect of induced mutagenesis on germination percentage were observed in four wheat varieties using gamma rays and EMS mutagens. Irradiation with gamma dose at 300 Gy, HS 490 (63%) and HPW 251 (62%) showed highest reduction in germination over control whereas at 1.15% EMS treatment, HPW 251 (58%) and HPW 360 (55%) showed highest reduction in germination per cent over control indicating reduction in germination per cent in all the mutagenic treatments with increase in the concentration of the mutagens. Selection of appropriate mutagen and its dose plays a pivotal role in success of any mutation breeding programme. The LD50 value of mutagen helps in predicting mutagen sensitivity and subsequent recovery of higher mutation frequency. Hence, it is vital to optimize lethal dose of mutagens to isolate desired utilizable mutations (Hazra et al., 2021). LD50 values observed under EMS and gamma irradiation treatment for varieties viz., HS 490, HPW 89, HPW 360 and HPW 251 w','Abbott, W. S. (1925). A Method of Computing the Effectiveness of an Insecticide. Journal of Economic Entomology, 18(2): 265-267.\r\nBabaei, A., Nematzadeh, G. A., Avagyan, V., Hamidreza, S. and Petrodi, H. (2010). Radio sensitivity studies of morpho-physiological characteristics in some Iranian rice varieties (Oryza sativa L.) in M1 generation. African Journal of Agricultural Research, 5(16): 2124-2130.\r\nBorzouei, A. M. Kafi, Khazaei, H., Naseriyan, B. and Majdabadi, A. (2010). Effects of gamma radiation on germination and physiological aspects of wheat (Triticum aestivum L.) seedlings. Pakistan Journal of Botany, 42(4): 2281-2290. Shah, T. M, Atta, B. M., Mirza, J. I. and Haq, M. A. (2012). Radiosensitivity of various chickpea genotypes in M1 generation II-field studies. Pakistan Journal of Botany, 44(2): 631-634.\r\nChakraborty, N. R. and Paul, A. (2013). Role of Induced Mutations for Enhancing Nutrition Quality and Production of Food. International Journal of Bio-resource and Stress Ma','Rana, A.; Rana, V.; Priyanka; Anubhav, S. and Gupta, C. (2022). Fixation of Lethal Dose and Study of Physical and Chemical Effect of Mutagenesis on Germination, Pollen Sterility and Plant Survival in M1 Generation of Wheat (Triticum aestivum L.). Biologic'),(3584,'112','Human Diseases caused by Pathogens of Plant Origin','Raheeba Tun Nisa*, Rameesa Rashid, Shaheen Kausar Jan, Tariq Rasool Rather, Farooq Ahmad Bhat, Altaf Ahmad Wani, Muntazir Mushtaq and Nahida Anjum','5 Human Diseases caused by Pathogens of Plant Origin Raheeba Tun Nisa.pdf','',1,'The interactions among pathogenic microbes and their hosts are various and complicated, starting from open-subject interactions to molecular interactions. Until recently, the capacities of plant pathogenic micro-organism and fungi to motive sickness in human and animal structures become deemed insignificant. Recent facts reveals, however, that infections precipitated via way of means of plant pathogenic microorganisms in animals and people may also have extreme outcomes for human and animal fitness and safety. Cross-state host leaps are extraordinarily rare, however they could appear whilst a microbe that more often than not colonizes a species from one taxonomic state has the capacity to colonise a species from any other state beneath neath uncommon circumstances. Previous studies on plant infections as reasons of animal struggling are addressed for the duration of this evaluate. To recognize the diploma of sickness prevalence and decide sickness prevention measures, extra statistics ','Cross-state, Interactions, Infections, Pathogenic, Prevention. ','The potential that plant pathogens might cause animal and human illnesses is a novel concept that raises severe concerns about the likelihood of such infections occurring in healthy and immunocompromised people. Although there have been case studies of cross-kingdom infections in nature, agricultural areas, hospitals, and households, the prevalence of such diseases in the general population is unknown. As a result, the majority of human and animal infections in case studies were caused by infections through injured skin, the respiratory tract, or infections in immunocompromised persons. Most cross-kingdom transmissions by plant pathogens can thus be classified as opportunistic (e.g., Rhizobium radiobacter), and no specific transmission machinery is essential in these circumstances. Several questions are raised here, including whether pathogens may transcend the kingdom barrier and cause illnesses in humans. Indeed, several plant and animal pathogens are closely related, with nearly sim','Abel, J., Goldmann, O., Ziegler, C., HÃ¶ltje, C., Smeltzer, M. S. and Cheung, A. L. (2011). Staphylococcus aureus evades the extracellular antimicrobial activity of mast cells by promoting its own uptake. Journal of Innate Immunity, 3: 495â€“507. \r\nAlberts, B., Johnson, A., Lewis, J., Raff, M., Lewis, J., Roberts, K., and Walter, P. (2002). Molecular Biology of the Cell, 4th edn. New York: Garland Science.\r\nAusubel, F. M. (2005). Are innate immune signaling pathways in plants and animals conserved? Nature Immunology, 6: 973â€“979.\r\nBals, R. (2000). Epithelial antimicrobial peptides in host defense against infection. Respiratory Research1: 141â€“150.\r\nBao, Z., Han, X., Chen, F., Jia, X., Zhao, J., and Zhang, C. (2015). Evidence for the involvement of cofilin in Aspergillus fumigatus internalization into type II alveolar epithelial cells. BMC Microbiology, 15: 161.\r\nBicudo, E. L., Macedo, V. O., Carrara, M. A., Castro, F. F. and Rage, R. I. (2007). Nosocomial outbreak of Pantoea agglomer','Nisa, R. T.; Rashid, R.; Jan, S. K.; Rather, T. R.; Bhat, F. A.; Wani, A. A.; Mushtaq, M. and Anjum, N. (2022). Human Diseases caused by Pathogens of Plant Origin. Biological Forum â€“ An International Journal, 14(1): 25-31.'),(3585,'112','Morphological Characterization of Mango (Mangifera indica L) Seedling Progenies for Flowering and Yield Contributing Traits','Abdul Latheef A.*, Pugalendhi L., Aneesa Rani, M.S., Jeyakumar P. and Kumar M.','6 Morphological Characterization of Mango _Mangifera indica L_ Seedling Progenies for Flowering and Yield Contributing Traits Abdul Latheef A.pdf','',1,'Mango (Mangifera indica. L) is extremely important because of its high economic worth and significant contribution to agricultural exports at both the global and national levels. In the seedling population of mango, there is a lot of genetic variety. High heritability allows breeders to select plants based on phenotypic expression in agricultural development programmes. Studies were carried out on mango genotypes which flowers throughout the year at farmerâ€™s field, Coimbatore District, Tamil Nadu, during 2019-2021. Observations were recorded on various morphological parameters such as qualitative characters examined by comparison with (IPGRI). From the observations made, the mango genotypes expressed morphological variations from genotype to genotype. These morphological variations indicate that the progenies were showing wide variation among each other in the 25 mango genotypes studied. Plant variety registration, genotype identification, and tree improvement programmes will all ben','Mango; Polyembryony; Variation; Characterization; Improvement.','The easiest, shortest, and most easily adaptable approach for identifying clones at the field level is through morphological features, which is required for tree improvement programmes. Mango genotypes identified in this study were seedling population which flowers throughout the year and produce fruits in three seasons, could be exploited for commercial purpose and \r\nmultiplied through vegetative means. The evaluation of morphological variations obtained in the study might help the breeders for various genetic breeding programs in mango cultivars and also serve as a baseline for further study on mango in the area. However, to confirm whether the variations are genetic in nature there is need for characterization using molecular markers.\r\n','Anumalla, M., Roychowdhury, R., Geda, C. K., Mazid, M. & Rathoure, A. K. (2015). Utilization of plant genetic resources and diversity analysis tools for sustainable crop improvement with special emphasis on Rice. International Journal of Advanced Research, 3(3): 1155-1175.\r\nBarholia, A. K. & Yadav, S. (2014). Divergence for fruit characters in mango (Mangifera indica L.). African Journal of Agricultural Science and Technology, 2: 65â€“67.\r\nBhuyan, M. A. J. & Islam, M. S. (1989). Physio-morphological characters of some popular mango cultivars. Bangladesh Journal of Agriculture Research. 14(3): 181-187.\r\nChristopher, M., Menzela, M. D. & Lagadec, L. (2017). Can the productivity of mango orchards be increased by using high-density plantings. Scientia Horticulturae, 219: 222-263.\r\nDevi, K., Kour, K., Bakshi, P., Sharma, B. C., Sharma, M. & Sinha, B. K. (2021). Evaluation of Diversity Among Tree and Leaf characteristics of Ambri apple (MalusÃ— domestica Borkh.) in Jammu region. Biological F','Latheef, A. A.; Pugalendhi, L.; Rani, A. M. S.; Jeyakumar, P. and Kumar, M. (2022). Morphological Characterization of Mango (Mangifera indica L) Seedling Progenies for Flowering and Yield Contributing Traits. Biological Forum â€“ An International Journal,'),(3586,'112','Genetic Variability and Associations of Selected Wheat (Triticum aestivum L.) Genotypes under Early and Late Sown Rainfed Conditions','Priyanka, Vijay Rana, Amit Rana* , Shubhanshu Anubhav, Chetan Gupta and Gazal Saini','7 Genetic Variability and Associations of Selected Wheat _Triticum aestivum L._ Genotypes under Early and Late Sown Rainfed Conditions Priyanka.pdf','',1,'The present study was conducted during rabi season 2019-20 to find variability, correlations and path coefficient analysis. Two experiments were conducted in Î± â€“RBD design on 66 genotypes for recording observations under duly sown and late sown unirrigated conditions. Examination of variations showed critical genotypic contrasts among all the characters which shown that the genotypes had adequate level of differences. Under both the situations high heritability together with high genetic advance for peduncle length and biological yield per plant were observed. So, selection can be compelling for these characters for further change of the genotypes beneath conditions of stress. It is indicated by correlations and path coefficient analysis that biological yield per plant, harvest index were important traits under both conditions, because they had a significant correlation with grain yield and high direct effect and indirect effects on grain yield per plant. This appeared genuine rela','Correlation coefficient, path coefficient, heritability and genetic advance. ','Characteristics such as peduncle length and biological yield per plant, as well as genetic advance, show high heritability as percent mean.Traits such as biological yield per plant, harvest index and 1000-grain weight showed highly significant and positive correlation with grain yield per plant, can be used as selection criteria in grain yield improvement under both the environments. By performing direct selection on traits such as biological yield per plant, harvest index, and 1000-grain weight in both environments, the path coefficient analysis revealed that selection results in high grain yield can be obtained by selecting for traits such as these, which have exhibited positive, significant correlations with grain yield as well as positive impacts on grain yield. It was also reported by (Dayem et al., 2021) that grain yield was directly affected by harvest index, followed by biomass yield. So, selection based on these traits may prove effective in improving yield.','Ahmadi, M., Farshadfar, E. and Veisi, S. (2012). Evaluation of genetic diversity in land races of bread wheat under irrigated and rainfed conditions. International Journal of Agriculture and Crop Sciences, 4: 1627-1636.\r\nAhmadizadeh, M., Shahbazi, H., Valizadeh, M. and Zaefizadeh, M. (2011). Genetic diversity of durum wheat landraces using multivariate analysis under normal irrigation and drought stress conditions. African Journal of Agricultural Research, 6: 2294-2302.\r\nAlemu, Y. A., Anley, A. M. and Abebe, T. J. (2020). Genetic variability and association of traits in Ethiopian durum wheat (Triticum turgidium L. vaar. durum) landraces at Dabat Research Station, North Gondar.Cogent Food & Agriculture 6.\r\nAl-Jibouri, H. A., Miller, P. A. and Robinsonn, H. F. (1955). Genotypic and environmental variance and covariance in an upland cotton cross of interspecific origin. Agronomy Journal, 50: 633-636.\r\nAshfaq, S., Muhammad, H., Awan, S. I., Kang, S. A., Sarfaraz, M. and Ali, M. A. (2014). ','Priyanka; Rana, V.; Rana, A.; Anubhav, S.; Gupta, C. and Saini, G. (2022). Genetic Variability and Associations of Selected Wheat (Triticum aestivum L.) Genotypes under Early and Late Sown Rainfed Conditions. Biological Forum â€“ An International Journal'),(3587,'112','Heterosis Studies of Newly developed intra-hirsutum Cotton Hybrids for Seed Cotton and Lint Yield and their Performance for Economic, Morphological and Fibre Quality Traits under Rainfed condition in Cotton (Gossypium hirsutum L.)','K.S. Baig*, V.N. Chinchane, A.R. Gaikwad and U.V. Surewad','8 Heterosis Studies of Newly developed intra-hirsutum Cotton Hybrids for Seed Cotton and Lint Yield and their Performance for Economic, Morphological and Fibre Quality Traits under Rainfed K.S. Baig.pdf','',1,'Stagnation in yield is observed in cotton since last one decade across all the zones of country mainly because of involvement of parental lines with narrow genetic base. The present study was aimed to develop F1 cotton hybrids by involving parents with wide genetic base for commercial exploitation of useful and standard heterosis for seed cotton yield as estimation of heterosis over mid parent and better parent may not be given desirable cross combinations over commercially cultivated varieties or hybrids. Fifty intra-hirsutum cotton hybrids developed during kharif season of 2017-2018 from Line Ã— Tester mating design (5 lines Ã— 10 testers) were evaluated in randomised block design with two replications at Cotton Research Station, Nanded during kharif season of 2018-2019 along with one local varietal check, NH 615 for estimating useful heterosis and three standard hybrid checks viz., NCS 145, NHH 250 and NHH 44 for estimating standard heterosis for seed cotton yield and lint yield. T','Gossypium hirsutum, intra-hirsutum hybrids, useful heterosis, standard heterosis seed cotton yield, mean performance.','Cotton is among those of few often cross pollinated crop which is accessible to development of homozygous genotypes as varieties as well as amenable for commercial exploitation of heterosis by exploitation of additive as well as non-additive genetic variance (Ranganatha et al., 2013). The present study revealed of considerable amount of heterosis for seed cotton yield and lint yield which indicates larger scope for commercial exploitation of heterosis in hybrid breeding of cotton. Based on the above results, the hybrid combinations viz., NHH 1245, NHH 1235, NHH 1204, NHH 1165 and NHH 1075 may be utilized on large scale for commercial exploitation of heterosis in cotton particularly for seed cotton and lint yield. These hybrids may be introduced directly into the market in non Bt version to fulfil the demand of organic cotton cultivators. Simultaneously, parental lines of these hybrids may be converted into BG II version to develop Bt version of these hybrids to meet the needs of non-o','Ali, M. A., and Khan, I. A. (2007). Assessment of genetic variation and inheritance mode of some metric traits in cotton (Gossypium hirsutum L.). J. Agric. Soc. Sci., 3: 112-116.\r\nAminul Islam, A., Khalequzzaman, K. M., Era, F. M., Uddin M. F., and Chakrabarty. S (2021). Estimation of Heterosis in Hybrids of Upland Cotton (Gossypium hirsutum L.) for Seed Cotton Yield and Related Traits. \r\n\r\nJournal of Advanced Plant Sciences, 11(1): 1- 12. \r\nAnnonymous (2021). All India Coordinated Cotton Improvement Project- Annual Report. 2020-21.\r\nArshad, M., Illahi, N., Rashid, M. , Qamar, Z. Aminul Islam, A.., Khalequzzaman, K. M., Era, F.M, Uddin M. F. and Chakrabarty. S (2001). Estimation of Heterosis in Hybrids of Upland Cotton (Gossypium hirsutum L.) for Seed Cotton Yield and Related Traits. Journal of Advanced Plant Sciences, 11(1): 1-12. \r\nBaloch, M., Baloch, A. W., Baloch, M. K., Mallano, I. A., Baloch, A. M., Baloch, N. J., Abro, S. (2015). Association and heritability analysis for yiel','Baig, K.S.; Chinchane, V. N.; Gaikwad, A. R. and Surewad, U. V. (2022). Heterosis Studies of Newly developed intra-hirsutum Cotton Hybrids for Seed Cotton and Lint Yield and their Performance for Economic, Morphological and Fibre Quality Traits under Rai'),(3588,'112','Evaluation of Antagonistic Potential of Trichoderma asperellum (in-vitro) against Fungal Diseases of Important Medicinal Plants','Nidhi Singh* and Dinesh Rai','9 Evaluation of Antagonistic Potential of Trichoderma asperellum _in-vitro_ against Fungal Diseases of Important Medicinal Plants Nidhi Singh.pdf','',1,'Now-a-days plant products are increasingly being used by humans for food and health care benefits. At the same time, we are concerned for the health of plants especially medicinal and aromatic plants as their health can yield products that are healthy for us. A survey was carried out on fungal diseases of economically important five medicinal plants viz. Ashwagandha (Withania somnifera), Sarpagandha (Rauvolfia serpentina), Tulsi (Ocimum sanctum), Mint (Mentha arvensis) and Mandukparni (Centella asiatica) in MAP germplasm blocks at Dr. RPCAU, Pusa and its neighbouring areas at different time intervals. During the survey, eleven fungal diseases namely leaf spot/ blight (Alternaria alternata), wilt (Fusarium solani) and downy mildew (Peronospora sp.) of Ashwagandha, leaf spot (Colletotrichum truncatum) and leaf blight (Alternaria sp.) of Sarpagandha, leaf spot (Colletotrichum gloeosporioides) and leaf blight (Alternaria sp.) of Tulsi, leaf spot (Curvularia lunata) and leaf blight (Alterna','Medicinal plants, fungal pathogens, biocontrol, Trichoderma asperellum.','Based on the results obtained in this work, we can say that some of the minor diseases are emerging to become the major diseases of these plants in Bihar and local Trichoderma asperellum strain has a good chance to become a successful biological control agent. The success of biocontrol of plant diseases depend on their effective formulations, their survival and rapid multiplication and colonization after inoculation. Their success depends on the development of rhizospheric competent strains in different agro-climatic zones of the country. Strains of Trichoderma sp. against pathogens, their action mechanism, compatibility with components of integrated pest management, quality formulations and success in field are major issues that are needed to be further explored intensively.','Alabouvette, C. & Couteadier, Y. (1992). Biological control of plant diseases: Progress and challenges for the future. Eds. Plenum Press, New York; 415-426.\r\nBliss, C. I. (1934). The method of probits. Science.\r\nBajwa, R., Mukhtar, I. & Anjum, T. (2004). In vitro biological control of Fusarium solani-cause of wilt in Dalbergia sissoo Roxb. Mycopathology (Pakistan).\r\nBabychan, M., & Simon, S. (2017). Efficacy of Trichoderma spp. against Fusarium oxysporum f. sp. lycopersici. (FOL) infecting pre-and post-seedling of tomato. Journal of Pharmacognosy and Phytochemistry, 6(4): 616-619.\r\nDas, B. K., Das, B. C., Dutta, P., & Sarmah, D. K. (2006). Bioformulation of Trichoderma harzianum Rifai for management of stem rot of soybean caused by Rhizoctonia solani Kuhn. Journal of Biological Control, 20(1): 57-64.\r\nDutta, P., & Das, B. C. (1999). Effect of seed pelleting and soil application of Trichoderma harzianum in the management of stem rot of soybean. Journal of Mycology and Plant Pathology,','Singh, N. and Rai, D. (2022). Evaluation of Antagonistic Potential of Trichoderma asperellum (in-vitro) against Fungal Diseases of Important Medicinal Plants. Biological Forum â€“ An International Journal, 14(1): 57-61.'),(3589,'112','Impact of Feeding Shatavari (Asparagus racemosus) Root Powder on Milk Quality and Feeding Cost in Crossbred Cows','Malati Kakasaheb Chavan*, Tushar Rajendra Bhosale, Gorakshanath Raosaheb Antre and D.K. Deokar','10 Impact of Feeding Shatavari _Asparagus racemosus_ Root Powder on Milk Quality and Feeding Cost in Crossbred Cows Malati Kakasaheb Chavan.pdf','',1,'Background: Although India has a large cattle population, milk production per animal is still very low. This lower productivity can be attributed to a variety of factors, including biological and epigenetic factors such as a lack of high-quality feed resources, poor husbandry management practices, and dairy farm units. The purpose of this study was to see how the herbal feed supplement shatavari (Asparagus racemosus) affected the qualitative milk parameters and feeding cost in crossbred cows. The present trial was carried out at the Research Cum Development Project, Mahatma Phule Krishi Vidyapeeth, Rahuri, Dist- Ahmednagar, Maharashtra, India.\r\nMethod: Twenty lactating crossbred cows were randomly divided into four homogenous groups, five animals each. Experimental groups T2, T3, and T4 were fed a comparable diet plus 40 gm, 80 gm, and 120 gm/cow/day of shatavari root powder (SRP), respectively. The investigation lasted 60 days and a 7 days digestibility trial was conducted at the end.','Asparagus racemosus, economics, feeding cost, milk composition, shatavari.','Generally the result indicates that the effect of shatavari root powder as fed with ration was statistically significant (P<0.05) affecting milk fat, protein, lactose and total solid per cent and yield (kg) while non- significant (P>0.05) effect on SNF %. It can be concluded from this study, feeding 40 to 80 gm/cow/day shatavari root powder to lactating crossbred cows is more beneficial, as it increases the nutritional value of the milk while also increasing the income of dairy producers. Feeding 40 to 80 gm/cow/day shatavari root powder as feed additives could also take care of any nutritional deficiency in the diet of cattle. ','AOAC (1995). Official Methods of Analysis. 16th edn., Association of Official Analytical Chemists, Washington, D.C. USA.\r\nBerhane, M., & Singh, V. P. (2002). Indian J. Ani. Sci., 72(7): 609-11.\r\nBhosale, T. R., Antre, G. R., Kumar, D., & Pandey, R. K. (2021). Effect of chelated minerals supplement on milk yield and composition of Sahiwal and Hariana Cows. Asian Journal of Dairy and Food Research, 40(2): 189-192.\r\nBirhanu, T. & Rita, S. (2019). Identify the Effect of Supplementing Asparagus Racemosus for Buffalo on Milk Quality Related to Milk Yield and Composition. Asian Journal of Dairy and Food Research, 38(3): 169-177.\r\nDangi, R. L. (2011). Effect of herbal feed supplementation shatavari (Asparagus racemosus L.) on productive performance of murrah buffaloes (Doctoral dissertation, NDRI, Karnal).\r\nDhuley, J. N. (1997). Effect of some Indian herbs on macrophage functions in ochratoxin A treated mice. Journal of ethnopharmacology, 58(1): 15-20.\r\nDibya, K. K. (2010). Shatavari (Asparagu','Chavan, M. K.; Bhosale, T. R.; Antre, G. R. and Deokar, D. K. (2022). Impact of Feeding Shatavari (Asparagus racemosus) Root Powder on Milk Quality and Feeding Cost in Crossbred Cows. Biological Forum â€“ An International Journal, 14(1): 62-66.'),(3590,'112','Response of Nitrogen and Silica on Growth and Yield of Paddy (Oryza sativa L.) Variety Improved White Ponni','G. Poovizhi Sindhu*, D. Jawahar, T. Chitdeshwari, P. Jeyakumar and D. Jeya Sundara Sharmila','11 Response of Nitrogen and Silica on Growth and Yield of Paddy _Oryza sativa L._ Variety Improved White Ponni G. POOVIZHI SINDHU.pdf','',1,'Rice is one of the leading food crops in the world and the main staple food in India that plays important role in agricultural and economic level. Silicon (Si) is the most abundant element in the earth\'s crust and improves the erectness of leaves and allows higher light transmittance in and above plant canopies and thus improves photosynthesis. The present study is conducted with interaction of N Ã— Si to increase the productivity potentials in rice genotype. A pot experiment was conducted at glasshouse, TNAU, Coimbatore to assess the response of nitrogen and silica on growth and yield traits of paddy. The treatments comprised of the two factors, Nitrogen and Silica with three replications. The growth parameter likes plant height, number of tillers per plant and total dry matter production were recorded at various stages and yield traits were recorded at harvest stage. Plant height, number of tillers and total dry matter production were higher in N2S2. The highest grain and straw yield','Nitrogen, urea, silica, calcium silicate, grain yield and straw yield.','The findings suggested that 150 kg ha-1 of Urea and 200 kg ha-1 of calcium silicate boosted rice yield and yield attributes in this study. Urea and calcium silicate showed substantial increment in grain and straw yield over the control. Grain and straw yield were positively correlated with plant height, number of tillers per plant and total dry matter production in paddy. From this study, it can be concluded that the combined fertilization of different levels of urea and silicon significantly improved the rice productivity through improved growth attributes.','Al-Shahmani, A. M. K. and Al-Juthery, H. W. A. (2021). Response of Rice (Oryza sativa L.) to Silica Fertilization and Spraying with Nano-Potassium and Calcium. In IOP Conference Series: Earth and Environmental Science, 735(1): 012068.\r\nAnggria, L., Siregar, A. F., Sipahutar, I. A., Rostaman, T., Suntari, R. and Fitriani, U. (2021). Improving rice plant using Si materials on P and Si uptake, growth and production in Ultisols. In IOP Conference Series: Earth and Environmental Science, 648(1): 012149.\r\nArtyszak, A. (2018). Effect of silicon fertilization on crop yield quantity and qualityâ€”A literature review in Europe. Plants, 7(3): 54.\r\nCuong, T. X., Ullah, H., Datta, A. and Hanh, T. C. (2017). Effects of silicon-based fertilizer on growth, yield and nutrient uptake of rice in tropical zone of Vietnam. Rice Science, 24(5): 283-290.\r\nDatnoff, L. E., and Rodrigues, F. A. (2005). The role of silicon in suppressing rice diseases. APSnet Features.\r\nDevanur, V. (2015). SILICON-Solution for ','Sindhu, G. P.; Jawahar, D.; Chidteshwari, T.; Jeyakumar, P. and Sharmila, D. J. S. (2022). Response of Nitrogen and Silica on Growth and Yield of Paddy (Oryza sativa L.) Variety Improved White Ponni. Biological Forum â€“ An International Journal, 14(1): '),(3591,'112','Combining Ability Analysis for Grain Quality Characters of Diverse CMS Lines in Hybrid Rice','Nidhi Bhatt*, M.K. Nautiyal, Vikasmangal and Leela Bhatt','12 Combining Ability Analysis for Grain Quality characters of diverse CMS Lines in Hybrid Rice Nidhi Bhatt.pdf','',1,'The general combining ability (GCA) of the parents and specific combining ability (SCA) of the crosses for twelve grain quality traits were determined using a line Ã— tester mating design with three cytoplasmic male sterile (CMS) lines and eleven elite testers. Significant variations were reported in the lines as well as the testers for majority of characters. Allowing for the scope of heterosis breeding the combining ability analysis expressed the predominance of non-additive gene action for kernel length, kernel breadth, kernel length to breadth ratio, kernel length after cooking, kernel elongation ratio, hulling percentage, milling percentage, head rice recovery, gel consistency, alkali spreading value and amylose content; while additive gene action predominated in the character kernel breadth after cooking, which allows the scope for transgressive breeding. The GCA effect estimates revealed that among all the lines IR58025A and IR79156A were the best combiners for most of quality c','CMS lines, general combining ability, specific combining ability; line Ã— tester.','The study was aimed to determine the combining ability analysis of diverse CMS lines of hybrid rice. Forty-seven genotypes, comprising of three cytoplasmic male sterile (CMS) lines, eleven testers and thirty-three crosses were evaluated for grain quality characters. The evaluated parental genotypes and their hybrid combinations displayed significant variations indicating substantial genetic variability that could be exploited in hybrid rice breeding programme. Significant GCA and SCA effects were detected for the assessed traits among crosses and parents, which implies that both additive and non-additive effects influence these traits in the selected parents and crosses. For most quality characters, such as kernel breadth, kernel length after cooking, kernel breadth after cooking, kernel elongation ratio, hulling percentage, head rice recovery, milling percentage, alkali spreading value, and amylose content, the CMS lines IR58025A and IR79156A were identified as good combiners. Anjali ','Abbas, A., Yu, P., Sun, L., Yang, Z., Chen, D., Cheng, S., & Cao, L. (2021). Exploiting Genic Male Sterility in Rice: From Molecular Dissection to Breeding Applications. Frontiers in Plant Science, 12: 220.\r\nAsfaliza, R., Rafii, M. Y., Saleh, G., Omar, O., & Puteh, A. (2012). Combining ability and heritability of selected rice varieties for grain quality traits. Australian Journal of Crop Science, 6(12), 1718-1723.\r\nBradshaw, J. E. (2017). Plant breeding: past, present and future. Euphytica, 213(3): 60.\r\nChang, Z., Chen, Z., Wang, N., Xie, G., Lu, J., Yan, W., & Deng, X. W. (2016). Construction of a male sterility system for hybrid rice breeding and seed production using a nuclear male sterility gene. Proceedings of the National Academy of Sciences, 113(49): 14145-14150.\r\nFAOSTAT (2021). Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations. Statistical Database. Available online: http://www.fao.org/faostat/en/#data \r\nKamara, M. M., Ghazy, N. A., Mansour, E., Elsharkawy, M. M., Kheir','Bhatt, N.; Nautiyal, M. K., Vikasmangal and Bhatt, L. (2022). Combining Ability Analysis for Grain Quality characters of diverse CMS Lines in Hybrid Rice. Biological Forum â€“ An International Journal, 14(1): 73-77.'),(3592,'99','Yoga Therapy and Heat Regulatory and Cardiovascular Systems of a Human Body','N.S. Lodhi, Padam Sharma and V.P. Saxena','38 Yoga Therapy and Heat Regulatory and Cardiovascular Systems of a Human Body VP Saxena.pdf','',1,'Human body undergoes physiological changes during abnormal atmospheric conditions and mental stress. This includes excessive hot and cold conditions of climate and emotional shocks. This causes changes in body circulations in human beings and heat regulatory disturbance in outer parts. This causes imbalances in both the systems which leads to ailments. \r\nYoga therapy is one which is very effective in both the cases. This paper presents biophysical processes of heat regulation and blood circulation in a human body, in particular under severe cold conditions. This is followed by Yoga exercises with potential therapic values to control both the processes under abnormal conditions of the thermal environment. A mathematical model has also been discussed with relates atmospheric conditions with flow rate and temperature of the blood. \r\n','Yoga Therapy, Mathematical Model, Yogic Exercises','','',''),(3593,'107','Effect of Rhizobium Inoculants on Growth Stages and Yield of Pigeonpea in Vertisol','Kavita Soni, R.K. Sahu, B. Yaduwanshi*, S.S. Baghel N.G. Mitra and Shubham Singh','204 Effect of Rhizobium Inoculants on Growth Stages and Yield of Pigeonpea in Vertisol B. Yaduwanshi.pdf','',1,'The inoculation of legumes with Rhizobium (Bradyrhizobium) strains selected for high nitrogen fixation under stress conditions of temperature, moisture, and other abiotic and biotic conditions including antibiotics particularly. A research trial was conducted on Effect of Rhizobium strains on the growth stages and yield of pigeonpea in Vertisol at the Department of Soil Science, JNKVV, Jabalpur (M.P.) There were twelve treatments (6 exotic, 2 local strain, FUI, UFUI and two Maize control) with four replication laid out in randomized block design. The result shown that Rhizobium strain R1 (BRP20) performed best in pigeonpea at different growth stages (25, 45, 65 and 85 DAS) for nodulation attributes (nodule enumeration, its biomass and leg hemoglobin content) by 72.00, 75.00, 60.00 and 34.00%; 63.50, 19.00, 10.30 and 9.70%; and 60.00, 69.00, 72.00 and 69.00% over that of fertilized un inoculated (FUI); plant growth attributes (plant height ) by 69.30, 20.90, 22.45 and 24.10%; over that','Rhizobium, pigeonpea, growth stages, native microbial, Vertisol.','','',''),(3594,'84','Population Dynamics of Bioagent Complex Under Rice Field Ecosystem of Eastern Uttar Pradesh, India','Gyan Prakash Morya* and Rajnish Kumar','13 Population Dynamics of Bioagent Complex Under Rice Field Ecosystem of Eastern Uttar Pradesh, India.pdf','',1,'Rice is the most important staple food for more than half population of the India and world. Rice is grown mostly under Indo-Gangetic plains zone of India, which is widely distributed in Uttar Pradesh. This zone is mostly a warm humid environment conductive to the survival and proliferation of arthropods biodiversity. Insect pests are major constraints in rice production. Bioagents have been playing potential role in ecofriendly insect pest management. A study was undertaken to surveillance of population dynamics of bioagent complex under rice field ecosystem of Eastern Uttar Pradesh, India for two consecutive years, 2014 and 2015 in rainy season (Kharif). The surveillance was conducted in 03 administrative divisions namely, Gorakhpur, Basti and Azamgarh. There were 41 bioagent species observed under 03 rice growth stages of seedling, transplanting and flowering. The test of significance was used analysis of variance in randomized block design (RBD). Of the total observed test of signi','Population dynamics, Bioagent complex, Rice insect pests, Eastern Uttar Pradesh, India','The significant variation among most bioagent groups and growth stages of rice were followed the natural phenomenon of variation, while non-significant variation among administrative divisions were represented the similar ecosystem of confined area of study. The significant variation among most bioagent groups and growth stages of rice under observed administrative divisions reflects the particular management strategy for particular source of significant variation, while the non-significant variation among administrative divisions solely reflects the universal management strategy for all sources of variation. Similar findings have been reported by Ooi and Shepard (1994); Bhattacharyya et al., (2006); Gangurde et al., (2007); Fahad et al., (2015); Chakraborty et al., (2016); Heinrichs and Muniappan, (2017); Parasappa et al., (2017); Krishnaiah and Varma (2018).','-','Morya, G. P. and Kumar, R. (2020). Population Dynamics of Bioagent Complex Under Rice Field Ecosystem of Eastern Uttar Pradesh, India. Biological Forum â€“ An International Journal, 12(2): 84-88.'),(3597,'112','Yield and Correlation with Weather Parameters as affected by Transplanting Time and different Varieties of Paddy (Oryza sativa L.)','N.V. Kashid, S.M. Shende*, N.B. Murade, K.K. Jadhav and S.A. Shinde','13 Yield and Correlation with Weather Parameters as affected by Transplanting Time and different Varieties of Paddy _Oryza sativa L._ Sudarshan M. Shende.pdf','',1,'The most critical element impacting crop yield is when it is planted. The performance of a variety is totally dependent on when it is planted. The research of crop for transplanting time and different varieties in relation to meteorological conditions is very important for attaining increased paddy yield. The length of the panicle (22.3 cm), number of spikelets panicle-1 (14), number of grain panicle-1 (180), grain weight panicle-1 (4.04 g), test weight (22.20 g), grain yield (52.90 q ha-1) and straw yield (62.27 q ha-1) of Kharif paddy were all improved by transplanting during the 28th MW. VDN-99-29 (Phule Samruddhi) had significantly higher yield attributing characters such as panicle length (23cm), number of spikelets panicle-1 (15), number of grain panicle-1 (189), grain weight panicle-1 (4.23 g), test weight (22.31 g), grain yield (53.55 q ha-1), grain yield (53.55 q ha-1), grain yield (53.55 q ha-1) and straw yield (53.55 (61.02 q ha-1). Interactions between paddy kinds and trans','Transplanting time, paddy varieties, weather parameters, yield attributing characters, yield, and correlation.','The transplanting period and diverse paddy types had a significant impact on paddy production and yield attributing attributes, according to the results of the experiment. After transplanting on the 28th MW, plant height, number of tillers plant-1, panicle length, number of spikelets panicle-1, number of grains panicle-1, grain weight panicle-1, test weight, grain, and straw production all increased significantly (2nd week of July). Phule Samurddhi was determined to be suited under Vadgaon-Maval conditions, with considerably greater panicle length, number of spikelets panicle-1, number of grains panicle-1, grain weight panicle-1, test weight, grain, and straw yield. When compared to other transplanting times and kinds, the VDN-99-29 (Phule Samruddhi) paddy variety had a beneficial influence on test weight, grain and straw production, and yield attributing features when transplanted during the 28th MW (2nd week of July). On the 28th MW (2nd Week of July), Phule Samurddhi was transplante','Anonymous (2021). USDA- World Agricultural Production, (2020). Foreign Agricultural Service Circular Series WAP-January 2021, 1-20.\r\nBrar, S. K., Mahal, S. S., Brar, A. S., Vashist, K. K., Sharma, N., & Buttar, G. S. (2012). Transplanting time and seedling age affect water productivity, rice yield andquality in north-west India. Agricultural Water Management, 115: 217â€“ 222.\r\nBruns, H. A., Abbas, H. K., (2006). Planting date effects on Bt and Non-Bt corn in the mid-south USA. Agronomy Journal, 98: 100â€“106.\r\nChowdhury, M. J. U., Hossain, S. M. A., Gaffer, M. A., & Islam, M. A. (2000). Hill distribution an effective transplanting arrangement in the late Transplanted Aman rice. Bangladesh. Journal of Crop Science, 11(1â€“2): 9â€“16.\r\nIslam, A. (1986). Review of agronomic research on rice and its future strategy. Advances in Agronomy Research Bangladesh, 1: 1â€“19.\r\nKabir, M. M., Naher, U. A., Panhwar, Q. A., Shamshuddin, J. and Khan, F. H. (2014). Effect of transplanting dates on growt','Kashid, N. V.; Shende, S. M.; Murade, N. B.; Jadhav, K. K. and Shinde, S. A. (2022). Yield and Correlation with Weather Parameters as Affected by Transplanting Time and Different Varieties of Paddy (Oryza sativa L.). Biological Forum â€“ An International '),(3598,'112','Cultural and Physiological Requirements of Colletotrichum truncatum causing Soybean Pod Blight','Roja S., Sunil Kulkarni*, Gururaj Sunkad, Ajithkumar K. and Shobharani M.','14 Cultural and Physiological Requirements of Colletotrichum truncatum causing Soybean Pod Blight Roja S.pdf','',1,'Fungi are heterotrophic organisms that rely on external sources of sustenance for their growth, reproduction, and survival. It is critical to provide all of the necessary nutrients in the form of media in order to grow fungus in a laboratory setting. Temperature and relative humidity are crucial external factors to consider. Temperature has an impact on practically every function of fungi, including growth and sporulation, and relative humidity is crucial in the progression of the disease into epidemic form. At the Department of Plant Pathology, UAS Raichur, an experiment was done to investigate the effects of different medium, temperature, and relative humidity on the growth of Colletotrichum truncatum, which causes soybean pod blight. Solid media PDA was found to be best for good growth subsequently oat meal agar with excellent sporulation. Among liquid media tested, Richardâ€™s broth was found significantly superior over other broths with dry mycelial weight of 427.67 mg, followed b','Soybean, pod blight, temperature, relative humidity, solid media, liquid media.','According to the results of this study, potato dextrose agar and Richard\'s broth are the best solid and liquid media for cultivating fungus, respectively. Furthermore, a temperature of 25 Â°C and a relative humidity of 80% were optimal conditions for the pathogen growth.','Ajay, K. D., Antony, J. I. X., Navin, K. S. and Rakesh, K. T. (2011). Soybean constituents and their functional benefits. Opportunity, challenge and scope of natural products in medicinal chemistry, 37/661(2): 367-383.\r\nAngadi, H. D. (1999). Studies on anthracnose of chilli (Capsicum annum) and its management. M. Sc. (Agri.) Thesis, Univ. Agric. Sci., Bangalore, Karnataka (India).\r\nAnonymous (2019). Directorate of Economics and Statistics, Ministry of Agriculture and Farmer Welfare.\r\nEkbote, S. D. (1994). Studies on anthracnose of mango (Mangifera indica L.) caused by Colletotrichum gloeosporoioides (Penz) Penz. and Sacc. M. Sc. (Agri.) Thesis, Univ. Agric. Sci., Dharwad, Karnataka (India).\r\nHepperly, P. R., Mignucci, J. S., Sindair, J. B. and Mendoza, J. B. (1983). Soybean anthracnose and its seed essay in Puerto. Rico. Seed Sci. Tech., 11: 371-380.\r\nKhan, M. and Sinclair, J. B. (1992). Pathogenicity of sclerotia and non-sclerotia forming isolates of C. truncatum on soybean plants and','Roja, S.; Kulkarni, S.; Sunkad, G.; Ajithkumar, K. and Shobharani, M. (2022). Cultural and Physiological Requirements of Colletotrichum truncatum causing Soybean Pod Blight. Biological Forum â€“ An International Journal, 14(1): 85-91.'),(3599,'112','Genetic Variability for Quantitative in Brinjal (Solanum melongena L.)','Pankaj Sharma*, Reena Nair, Kanchan S. Bhan and Shweta Tiwari','15 Genetic Variability for Quantitative in Brinjal _Solanum melongena L. Pankaj Sharma.pdf','',1,'For assessing the variability among thirty brinjal genotypes the present investigation was carried out at Horticulture complex, Department of Horticulture, Jawaharlal Nehru Krishi Vishwa Vidyalaya, Jabalpur (M.P.). Wide variability was recorded among the thirty genotypes studied. The PCV was higher than the GCV for almost all the characters. Both the PCV and GCV were high for traits LAI, the number of long-styled flowers, Number of short-styled flowers, Number of fruits per plant, Girth of fruit, Seed weight per fruit, Pulp: seed ratio, and total phenol content. High heritability accompanied by high GA or GA as % of mean was noted for characters LAI, and seed weight per fruit, indicating the involvement of additive gene action. Direct selection therefore could be effective for the improvement of these traits. The genotypes found superior for most economic traits were 2017/BRLVAR-7, 2017/BRRVAR-10, 2017/BRLVAR-9, 2017/BRRVAR-4, 2016/BRLVAR-5, JB 64, 2017/BRRVAR- 9 and 2016/7BRLVAR-8. Th','Variability, GCV, PCV, Heritability, GA, Brinjal, Hybridization.','The investigation declared significant variation and genotypes found superior for most of the economic traits were 2017/BRLVAR-7, 2017/BRRVAR-10, 2017/BRLVAR-9, 2017/BRRVAR-4, 2016/BRLVAR-5, JB 64, 2017/BRRVAR- 9 and 2016/7BRLVAR-8. These genotypes could be utilized in future hybridization breeding programs. Both GCV and PCV were high for traits LAI, the number of long-styled flowers, Number of short-styled flowers, Number of fruits per plant, Girth of fruit, Seed weight per fruit, Pulp: seed ratio, and total phenol content. The selections on basis of these traits have scope for \r\nselections and improvement of traits, while the lowest variability depicted the need for generation of variability. The traits days to 50 percent flowering, Leaf Area index, and Seed weight per fruit reported major heritable portion and thus guide plant breeder in adopting appropriate breeding procedure.\r\n','Anonymous (2017a). Horticultural statistics at a glance 2017, Horticulture statistics Division, Dept. of Agriculture Cooperation Farmers Welfare, GoI : 149.\r\nBansal, S. (2007). Study of genetic divergence in brinjal (Solanum melongena L.) genotypes. M.Sc. Thesis, JNKVV, Jabalpur: 55-69.\r\nBurton, G. W. (1952). Quantitative inheritance in grasses. Proc. 6th Int. Grassland Cong., 1: 227-283.\r\nChandra, A., Dhurvey G.S., Verma, B.K. (1998) Abstract silver jubilee national emerging scenario in vegetable research and development PDVR Varanasi India 12-14. \r\nChattopadhya, A., Dutta, S., & Hazra, P. (2011). Characterization of genetic resources and identification of selection indices of brinjal (Solanum melongena L.). Vegetable Crops Research Bulletin, 74: 39-49.\r\nChaudhary, D. R. & Pathania, N. K. (1998). Variation studies in some genetic stocks of eggplant. Himachal J. Agric. Res., 24(1-2): 67-73.\r\nGavade, R. T., & Ghadage, B. A. (2015). Genetic variability, heritability, and genetic advan','Sharma, P.; Nair, R.; Bhan, K. S. and Tiwari, S. (2022). Genetic Variability for Quantitative in Brinjal (Solanum melongena L.). Biological Forum â€“ An International Journal, 14(1): 92-96.'),(3600,'112','Influence of Foliar Ethrel on Growth, Flowering, Fruit Set and Yield of different Varieties on Cucumber (Cucumis sativus L.) under Net House condition','Nguyen Viet Thanh*, Rajendra Kumar Panda, Kailash Chandra Samal, Gouri Shankar Sahu and Rabindra Kumar Nayak','16 Influence of Foliar Ethrel on Growth, Flowering, Fruit Set and Yield of Different Varieties on Cucumber _Cucumis Sativus L._ under Net House Condition Nguyen Viet Thanh.pdf','',1,'The present investigation was carried out in the net house of the Department of Plant Physiology, Bhubaneswar, Odisha, India to screen twenty popular cucumber genotypes by foliar application of ethrel @300mg/L and to recommend and to grow under field condition suitable to Coastal Odisha Agro-climate. Primarily, the screening methods focus on one or more customary growth sites (bud, leaves, stem, flower and fruits) and on the basis of their growth, flowering (male: female), fruit set and yield a conclusion was derived The pot experiment was carried out from October 2019 to January 2020 in net house condition with factorial completely randomized design (CRD) and was replicated twice. The first ethrel (2-chloro- ethane phosphonic acid) @300ppm treatments were applied when the second true-leaf was fully expanded and a second application was made seven days later including a control spray application of distilled water. The foliage application of ethrel increased vine length (133.50 cm), ma','Cucumber, growth, vine length, foliar spray, flowering, sex ratio, yields, ethrel.','The performance of Rohan was found amazing which improvement the female flower and sex ratio. When foliar spray with ethrel with 300ppm at 2 leaf stage.','-','Thanh, N. V.; Panda, R. K.; Samal, K. C.; Sahu, G. S. and Nayak, R. K. (2022). Influence of Foliar Ethrel on Growth, Flowering, Fruit Set and Yield of Different Varieties on Cucumber (Cucumis sativus L.) under Net House Condition. Biological Forum â€“ An '),(3601,'112','Genetic Variability Studies on Cellulolytic Aspergillus terreus Fungi using RAPD-PCR Technique','B.C. Game* and V.P. Chimote','17 Genetic Variability Studies on Cellulolytic Aspergillus terreus Fungi using RAPD-PCR Technique B.C. Game.pdf','',1,'Forty nine fungal cultures were isolated from rural and urban waste samples from different parts of Western Maharashtra. These isolates were screened for cellulase activity and further identified as Aspergillus terreus, Aspergillus flavus and Aspergillus niger on the basis of cultural and microscopic features. Aspergillus terreus being a major group was selected for further investigations on genetic diversity by using RAPD-PCR technique with a aim to study the range of genetic differences between species within same genus. The PCR amplification profiles of these fungal cultures including standard MPKV reference strain of Aspergillus terreus with 16 random fungal primers generated 502 bands, out of which 349 bands were polymorphic, while 139 bands were unique. The average polymorphism observed was 97.21%. The genetic similarity index based on the pooled data of RAPD profiles from all the 16 primers ranged from 0.25 to 0.79 among isolates. The dendrogram and 2D PCO scatter plot construct','Cellulase, Aspergillus terreus, RAPD-PCR, polymorphism, genetic variability.','There was wide genetic variability among Aspergillus terreus isolates at species level though they were from same ecological niche, which may be due to the minor genetic differences in the strains within same species or differential expression of genes. RAPD PCR is very useful to detect similarities and differences in different fungal species. Data generated by RAPD study is useful in estimating distances between and within same species and might help in further genomic research on differences in enzyme production levels within closely related population. Closely related species of other microorganisms can be similarly characterized at molecular and biochemical level.','-','Game, B. C. and Chimote, V. P. (2022). Genetic Variability Studies on Cellulolytic Aspergillus terreus Fungi using RAPD-PCR Technique. Biological Forum â€“ An International Journal, 14(1): 102-107.'),(3602,'112','Biopolymer Chitosan for the Management of Root Knot Nematode, Meloidogyne incognita and Root Pathogenic Fungus, Fusarium solani Infecting Tomato ','R. Mouniga*, B. Anita, A. Shanthi, A. Lakshmanan and G. Karthikeyan','18 Biopolymer Chitosan for the Management of Root Knot Nematode, Meloidogyne incognita and Root Pathogenic Fungus, Fusarium solani Infecting Tomato R. Mouniga.pdf','',1,'The endoparasitic root knot nematode, Meloidogyne incognita and wilt pathogen, Fusarium solani cause severe yield loss in tomato. At present more emphasis is being given to develop environmentally safe pest and disease management technologies for sustainable crop production. Experiments were conducted to access the efficacy of chitosan at different concentrations against root knot nematode, M. incognita and root pathogenic fungus, Fusarium solani. Under lab conditions nematode egg hatching and juvenile mortality was recorded. In pot culture experiments, nematode population in roots, gall index and plant growth were recorded. The effect of chitosan on fungal growth was also assessed using poison food technique. Exposure of M. incognita egg mass to 5000 ppm and 10,000 ppm chitosan decreased the hatchability of eggs by 96.19% to 100% within 24 hrs time interval , compared to control. Similarly chitosan at 5000 ppm and 10,000 ppm concentration caused 100% infective juvenile mortality. Chi','Chitosan, egg masses, Fusarium solani, infective juveniles, M. incognita and tomato.','The endoparasitic root knot nematode, Meloidogyne incognita and wilt pathogen, Fusarium solani cause severe yield loss in tomato. At present more emphasis is being given to develop environmentally safe pest and disease management technologies for sustainable crop production. Experiments were conducted to access the efficacy of chitosan at different concentrations against root knot nematode, M. incognita and root pathogenic fungus, Fusarium solani. Under lab conditions nematode egg hatching and juvenile mortality was recorded. In pot culture experiments, nematode population in roots, gall index and plant growth were recorded. The effect of chitosan on fungal growth was also assessed using poison food technique. Exposure of M. incognita egg mass to 5000 ppm and 10,000 ppm chitosan decreased the hatchability of eggs by 96.19% to 100% within 24 hrs time interval , compared to control. Similarly chitosan at 5000 ppm and 10,000 ppm concentration caused 100% infective juvenile mortality. Chi','-','Mouniga, R.; Anita, B.; Shanthi, A.; Lakshmanan, A. and Karthikeyan, G. (2022). Biopolymer Chitosan for the Management of Root Knot Nematode, Meloidogyne incognita and Root Pathogenic Fungus, Fusarium solani Infecting Tomato. Biological Forum â€“ An Int'),(3603,'112','Assessment of Genetic Variability and Character Association in Yield and Yield-attributing Traits in Spine Gourd (Momordica dioica Roxb.)','S.J. Patil*, V.S. Khandare, V.R. Gurve and R. D. Baghele','19 Assessment of Genetic Variability and Character Association in Yield and Yield-attributing Traits in Spine Gourd (Momordica dioica Roxb.) S. J. Patil 1859.pdf','',1,'Spine gourd is a highly nutritious and lucrative perennial vegetable crop with a high genetic variability. Association studies on yield and component chararcters can help breeders to understand trait intercorrelation, paving paths for further crop improvement. The present investigation was carried out to evaluate the variability and character association of 20 spine gourd genotypes for thirteen quantitative and quality traits. The high phenotypic and genotypic coefficient of variation were observed for yield per plant, number of fruits per plant, single fruit weight, plant height and acidity. The highest heritability coupled with high GAM was observed for yield per plant, plant height, number of fruits per plant, acidity, single fruit weight, node at 1st female flower appeared, fruit length and diameter, total soluble solid and ascorbic acid which showed that the heritability was most likely due to additive gene effects. Thus direct selection based on these traits would be advantageous','Spine gourd; genetic variability; correlation; path analysis; yield.','From the present investigation, among all traits studied, high PCV and GCV were observed for yield per plant, followed by the number of fruits per plant, single fruit weight, plant height and acidity. The highest heritability coupled with high GAM was observed for yield per plant, plant height, fruit per plant, acidity, single fruit weight, node at which 1st female flower appeared, fruit length and diameter, total soluble solid and ascorbic acid. The yield per plant exhibited a significant and positive correlation with the number of fruit per plants, days to the last harvest, the fruit length, the plant height and the fruit diameter at both phenotypic and genotypic levels. On the other hand, a negative correlation was observed for fifty per cent flowering, the nodes at 1st female flower appeared, acidity, and fruit pedicel length. The path analysis study found that the highest directs effects on yield per plant were observed for days to the last harvest, the fruit pedicel length, the n','-','Patil, S. J.; Khandare, V. S.; Gurve, V. R. and Baghele, R. D. (2022). Assessment of Genetic Variability and Character Association in Yield and Yield-attributing Traits in Spine Gourd (Momordica dioica Roxb.). Biological Forum â€“ An International Journal'),(3604,'112','How Susceptible are the Indian, Himalayan Populations of Insect Pests to Novel Groups of Insecticides','Amit Umesh Paschapur*, Avupati RNS Subbanna, J.P. Gupta, Krishna Kant Mishra and Lakshmi Kant','20 How Susceptible are the Indian, Himalayan Populations of Insect Pests to Novel Groups of Insecticides Amit Umesh Paschapur.pdf','',1,'The insect pests like Helicoverpa armigera Hubner, Spilarctia obliqua (walker), Raphidopalpa foveicollis (Lucas), Chauliops choprai and Lipaphis erysimi Kaltenbach cause severe yield losses to hill crops in the Indian Himalayas. Farmers in the Himalayas mainly rely on traditional form of organic farming and rarely use any insecticides for insect pest management. In case of severe pest infestation, they spray conventional insecticides in high dosages, thus leading to insecticide resistance and reduced control of insect population. Considering the pest severity and dependence on conventional insecticides, a total of 23 insecticides (conventional and novel groups, botanicals and microbials) were screened against five target insects. The insecticides belonging to diamide, spinosyn and avermectin group were highly toxic against lepidopteran pests. Emamectin benzoate and Flubendiamide recorded lowest LC50 value of 97.49 and 22.8 ppm against the 3rd instars of H. armigera and S. obliqua respe','Indian Himalayas, insect pests, yield losses, conventional and novel insecticides, LC50 values, baseline susceptibility.','The agriculture in the Indian Himalayas has been the traditional subsistence system of crop-livestock farming for ages. But, due to increasing demand for agricultural produce of Himalayan origin in the metropolitan and cosmopolitan cities of India and abroad, the farmers of hill states are shifting their interest towards commercial production system, which includes intensive farming, contract farming and polyhouse cultivation. These new cultivation systems not only give high yields but also create very favourable environmental conditions for pest and disease survival and dispersion, thus forcing farmers to adapt chemical pest management practices. Therefore, in order to fix the baseline susceptibility to various novel chemistry insecticides and provide safer alternatives for hazardous conventional organophosphate and carbamate insecticides, the present study was conducted and novel insecticides were screened against major insect pests of hill crops at laboratory level. Based on our res','-',' Paschapur, A. U.; Subbanna, A. R.N.S.; Gupta, J. P.; Mishra, K. K. and Kant, L. (2022). How Susceptible are the Indian, Himalayan Populations of Insect Pests to Novel Groups of Insecticides. Biological Forum â€“ An International Journal, 14(1): 121-130.'),(3605,'112','Effect of different Fungicides against Collar Rot of Groundnut (Arachis hypogaea L.) caused by Aspergillus niger Van Tiegham','Mahendra Kumar Saran* , Dama Ram , J.R. Verma and Anand Choudhary','21 Effect of different Fungicides against Collar Rot of Groundnut _Arachis hypogaea L._ caused by Aspergillus niger Van Tiegham Mahendra Kumar Saran.pdf','',1,'ABSTRACT: Groundnut is an economic important edible oilseed crop. Seed and soil borne pathogens are the major constraints in production of groundnut, causing poor germination and early mortality of seedling. Collar rot is one of the most destructive diseases of groundnut. To develop effective management strategies for this menacing disease using the different studies such as in vitro evaluation of fungicides and field management through seed dressing fungicides were taken. The result revealed that in vitro Saaf [Carbendazim (12%) + Mancozeb (63%)], Nativo [Tebuconazole 50% + Trifloxystrobin 25%] and Tilth [Propiconazole] showed 100 per cent mycelial growth inhibition at all the concentration (250, 500, 750 & 1000 ppm) and in vivo condition Saaf [Carbendazim (12%) + Mancozeb (63%)] at 2.0 gm/kg (17.00%) followed by Tilth [Propiconazole] at 2.0 ml/lit (19.28%) inhibit maximum fungal growth under field condition as a seed treatment.','Keywords: Groundnut, fungicides, in vivo, in vitro, A. niger.','Seven fungicides were evaluated against A. niger at different concentrations in vitro. Among the all, Carbendazim (12%) + Mancozeb (63%), Tebuconazole 50% + Trifloxystrobin 25% and Propiconazole showed 100 per cent mycelial growth inhibition at all the concentration (250, 500, 750 & 1000 ppm), whereas Carboxin (37.5%) + Thiram (37.5%), Carbendazim at 750 & 1000 ppm and Azoxystrobin (18.2%) + Difenoconazole (11.4%) at 1000 ppm recorded 100 per cent mycelia growth inhibition. while Hexaconazole (5%) + Captan (70%) showed least mycelial growth inhibition (65.83, 74.13, 88.11 & 90.13 %) at 250, 500, 750 and 1000 ppm concentrations, respectively. \r\nIn field condition lowest collar rot severity was observed in seed treated with Carbendazim (12%) + Mancozeb (63%) at 2.0 gm/kg (17.00 %) followed by Propiconazole at 2.0 ml/lit (19.28 %) under field condition whereas, 53.33 per cent disease incidence was recorded.','-','Saran, M. K.; Ram, D.; Verma, J. R. and Choudhary, A. (2022). Effect of Different Fungicides Against Collar Rot of Groundnut (Arachis hypogaea L.) caused by Aspergillus niger Van Tiegham. Biological Forum â€“ An International Journal, 14(1): 131-135.'),(3606,'112','Golden Mosaic Virus Disease of Cowpea in Rajasthan: Survey, Occurrence and Yield Loss','Anil Kumar, G.S. Rathore, Sunil Kumar*, Mahabeer Singh, Shivam Maurya, Poonam Kumari, Kiran, Neelam Kumari and Lalita Lakharan','22 Golden Mosaic Virus Disease of Cowpea in Rajasthan Survey, Occurrence and Yield Loss Anil Kumar.pdf','',1,'Cowpea (Vigna unguiculata L.) is a major pulse crop in India\'s arid and semi-arid regions. Based on a field survey conducted in four tehsils of Jhunjhunu district of Rajasthan, we can conclude that MYMIV is the most prevalent pathogen responsible for yellow mosaic disease of cowpea in the Jhunjhunu district during the months of August to September 2020-2021, during rainy season MYMIV is became a very serious problem in late sown crop. The survey provided baseline information on the distribution and occurrence of cowpea golden mosaic disease, incidence and severity in the major cowpea growing area of Jhunjhunu district in Rajasthan state. During the survey, discussions were held with the farmers concerned, regarding occurrence, incidence and yield losses due to this disease. In four tehsils of Jhunjhunu district, disease intensity ranged from 29.31 to 60.95 per cent. Jhunjhunu tehsil has the highest disease intensity (54.12 per cent), followed by Khetri tehsil (52.50 per cent). Plants ','Cowpea, survey, golden mosaic virus disease, disease severity, yield loss.','We can conclude that MYMIV is the most prevalent pathogen responsible for yellow mosaic disease of cowpea across the Jhunjhunu district in Rajasthan based on a field survey conducted in four tehsils of the Jhunjhunu district. Due to the rainy season, MYMIV is a serious problem in this crop during the months of August and September. According to a survey of cowpea-growing tehsils in the Jhunjhunu region, none of the locations were found to be free of the disease. Jhunjhunu tehsil (54.12 per cent) had the highest golden mosaic disease intensity, while Udaipurwati tehsil had the lowest (35.48 per cent. The disease starts out as small yellow spots on young leaves, then spreads to the rest of the leaves. Shortening of internodes, necrotic spots on leaves, and stunting of plants occur as a result of severe infection, with few blooms and malformed pods yielding small, immature, and shriveled seeds. Maximum yield losses of (58.38 per cent) were discovered during yield loss calculation when dis','-',' Kumar, A.; Rathore, G. S.; Kumar, S.; Singh, M.; Maurya, S.; Kumari, P.; Kiran ; Kumari, N. and Lakharan, L. (2022). Golden Mosaic Virus Disease of Cowpea in Rajasthan: Survey, Occurrence and Yield Loss. Biological Forum â€“ An International Journal, 14('),(3607,'60','Per Acute Case of Trypanosoma evansi in a Dobermann â€“ A Case Report','L. Jeyabal','23 Per Acute Case of Trypanosoma evansi in a Dobermann â€“ A Case Report L. Jeyabal.pdf','',1,'The salivarian trypanosome, Trypanosoma evansi, commonly called as surra in India causes major disease in camels, equines and dogs and in which it can often be fatal in the absence of treatment. In this manuscript a case study of trypanosome infected dog is detailed. A Female Dobermann dog of three years age was reported to a private Veterinary clinic at Proddatur, the Rayalaseema region of Andhra Pradesh, India with the clinical symptoms of pyrexia (105ÂºF), severe anemia and pale mucous membrane with lateral recumbency. The dog was adopted in a farm house along with few buffaloes and often fed with cooked beef. The blood was screened for hemprotozoan parasites by wet blood film (WBF) and Leishmannâ€™s staining technique and the case was confirmed as Trypanosoma evansi by microscopic examination. Complete blood profile was carried out manually, in which hypochromic regenerative anaemia was noticed. The animal was initially stabilized with intravenous iron sucrose infusion; soon after,','Canine Vector borne disease, Iron sucrose infusion, Trypanosoma evansi.','Severe to moderate reduction in TEC, PCV, Hb and TLC values with marginal neutrophilia, relative lymphocytopenia and hypochromic anaemia was the common findings of canine trypanosomosis, however the differential diagnosis of occurrence of similar haemogram in other blood protozoan diseases is mandatory. It is recommended to stable the trypanosomosis infected anemic dog with intravenous iron sucrose therapy before the administration of diminazine aceturate. Further, diminazine aceturate is strictly dose specific in canidae family and lethal to exceed 3.5mg/kg body weight. Concomitantly, the dose of diminazine can be extended up to 7.0 mg/kg to other cloven footed animals by deep intramuscular route.','-','Jeyabal, L. (2019). Per Acute Case of Trypanosoma evansi in a Dobermann â€“ A Case Report. Biological Forum â€“ An International Journal, 11(2): 170-173'),(3608,'54',' Preoperative Anxiety Level among Patients Undergoing Elective General Surgery in District Head Quarter Hospital (DHQ) Timergara',' Imdad Ullah, Hakim Ullah, Hameed Ur Rehman, Feroz Khan, Sana Ashiq, Kanwal Ashiq, Haleema Sadia, Shahid Raza, Umer Zeb, Asif Ali, Nasir Mahmood, Mohammad Kamil, Aleem Ullah, Sidra Tul Munthah, Munawar Hussain, Abdullah Khan and Asad Ullah','38 Preoperative Anxiety Level among Patients Undergoing Elective General Surgery in District Head Quarter Hospital (DHQ) Timergara HAMEED UR REHMAN.pdf','',1,'Anxiety is an emotive state considered by anxiety and fear subsequent from the expectation of a threatening occurrence. The occurrence of preoperative anxiety levels from 11% to 80% in mature patients and also differs among various surgical categories. The purpose of current study was to investigate the preoperative anxiety level among patients undergoing elective general surgery in district Head Quarter Hospital (DHQ) Timergara. In the present study total of 103 patients were selected, among these 56(54.4%) were arranged between 20 -35 years of age, while 47 (45.6%) were arranged 36â€“50 years of age. Sex wise distribution was 50(48.5%) in male, while 53(51.5%) in female respectively. On the basis of marital status total of 68(66.0%) patients were married, while 35(34.0%) were unmarried. Preoperative anxiety may cause to numerous complications such as autonomic variations, late jaw relaxation and coughing during entrance of anesthesia.',' Preoperative Anxiety, Patients Undergoing Elective General Surgery, Head Quarter Hospital (DHQ) Timergara','The current study was concluded to investigate the preoperative anxiety level among patients undergoing elective general surgery in district Head Quarter Hospital (DHQ) Timergara. Total of 103 patients were selected, among these 56(54.4%) were arranged between 20 -35 years of age, while 47 (45.6%) were arranged 36 â€“ 50 years of age.Sex wise distribution was 50(48.5%) in male, while 53(51.5%) in female respectively.','-','Ullah, I., Ullah, Hakim, Rehman, Hameed Ur, Khan, Feroz, Ashiq, Sana, Ashiq, Kanwal, Sadia, Haleema, Raza, Shahid, Zeb, Umer, Ali, Asif, Mahmood, Nasir, Kamil, Mohammad, Ullah, Aleem, Munthah, Sidra Tul, Hussain, Munawar, Khan, Abdullah and Ullah, Asad ('),(3609,'54','Foam Mat Drying of Banana (Musa acuminate) Pulp','Liaqat Ali, Nodia Shujaat, Syeda Musarrat Gilani, Hameed Ur Rehman, Feroz Khan, Hazrat Noor, Nasir Ali Khan, Uzma Ayaz, Uzma Ghani, Haleema Sadia, Shahid Raza, Kausar Malik, Umair Ali, Mehboob Khan, Sidra Tul Munthah, Safir Ullah and Fozia Noreen','39 Foam Mat Drying of Banana (Musa acuminate) Pulp HAMEED UR REHMAN.pdf','',1,'The good way for the dehydration of liquids and semi liquid foods in short times is foam mat drying process. This process can be successfully applied for drying of various varieties of fruit juice and pulps such as banana, tomato, mango and guava etc. Soya protein and henâ€™s egg albumin were used as foaming agents. Acetone and hexane were used in the ratio of 1:10 w/v for defatting of soy as foaming agent. Soy centrifugation performed after defatting and dried at room temperature. Soy flour 85 grams mixed with distilled water 1700 ml in 1:20 respectively. By addition of NaOH in 0.1M/N amount, pH changes 9 to 10 as well as large nutrients are denatured. Centrifugation performed again at 9000 rpm for 20 mints. After HCl like acid addition performed centrifugation which have similar rate as that were performed for addition of base. Moisture determination performed for control sample along with foaming agent samples such as soy protein isolate and henâ€™s egg albumin which are 15.341, 13.','Foam mat drying, Banana (Musa acuminate), Pulp','For drying of banana pulp, it was concluded that the eggs albumin was better than soy isolate. For the production of fruits and vegetables at the sensible cost under the experimental conditions, the foam mat drying process will be performed.','-','Ali, L., Shujaat, N., Musarrat, S., Gilani, Rehman, H.Ur, Khan, F., Noor, H., Khan, A.N., Uzma, A., Uzma, G., Haleema, S., Shahid, R., Kausar, M., Ali, U., Khan, M., Sidra, T.M., Ullah, S., and Noreen, F. (2019). Foam Mat Drying of Banana (Musa acumina'),(3610,'54','Epidemiology and Clinical Manifestation of Hereditary Primary Microcephaly in General Population of Districts Karak and Bannu Khyber Pakhtunkhwa (KP), Pakistan','Feroz Khan, Muhammad Ayaz, Abida Arshad, Fouzia, Hameed Ur Rehman, Amjid Ali, Sana Ashiq, Kanwal Ashiq, Haleema Sadia, Shahid Raza, Shafaat Hussain, Umair Ali, Abdul Wahab, Asfa Nazish, Aneela Riaz, Sehrish Khattak, Bilal Ahmad Zafar Amin and Kausar Malik','40 Epidemiology and Clinical Manifestation of Hereditary Primary Microcephaly in General Population of Districts Karak HAMEED UR REHMAN.pdf','',1,'The present study was conducted during March to December 2017 in districts Bannu and Karak, to investigate the epidemiology of microcephalic patients. Total of 7 families with 29 affected individuals were studied. Among these one family was recorded from district Bannu and 6 were from district Karak. Affected male and female individuals were 18 (62.06%) and 11 (37.94%) respectively. Age and head size of the affected members of each families were calculated by using mean and standard deviation. This data would give us knowledge about their disease and to provide a cautious management strategy to fight against diseases. Additionally, it would also provide tools for researcher and clinicians seeking a better understanding of inherited primary microcephaly.','Epidemiology, Clinical Manifestation, Hereditary Primary Microcephaly, General Population.','In conclusion we have established the incidence of inherited primary microcephaly in Pakistani population as well as their clinical features. This data would provide significance role in morbidity of human Pakistani population and would also provide cautious management strategy to fight against diseases. Additionally, it would give knowledge about their disease and provide tools for researcher and clinicians seeking a better understandingof inherited primary microcephaly.','-','Khan, F., Ayaz, M., Arshad, A., Fouzia, Rehman, H. Ur, Ali, A., Ashiq, S., Ashiq, K., Sadia, H., Raza, S., Hussain, S., Ali, U., Wahab, A., Nazish, A., Riaz, A., Khattak, S., Amin, B.A.Z. and Malik, K. (2019). Epidemiology and Clinical Manifestation of'),(3611,'54','Hemogram Interpretation and Diagnosis of Blood Parasites of Canines','L. Jeyabal*','41 Hemogram Interpretation and Diagnosis of Blood Parasites of Canines Jeyabal.pdf','',1,'The organisms that live in the blood of their animal hosts are called as blood parasites and these parasites can range from bacteria and rickettsiae to single-celled more complexed protozoa. The transmission varies, depending on the parasite, but often they are transmitted through the bites of ticks or flies. Various blood parasites such as Ehrlichia canis, Babesia canis, Hepatozoon canis and Trypanosoma evansi can cause serious threat in canines. The routine diagnosis in detection of various developmental stages of intracellular parasites with Romnowskyâ€™s staining method would be a greatest task of an expert parasitologist. Further, each blood parasite is associated with specific hematological variations and identification of these hematological alterations during routine laboratory screening of blood samples from dogs displaying clinical signs would be essential for diagnosing blood parasitic infections. In this manuscript twenty two canine blood samples suspected for various hemop','Blood parasite, Haemoprotozoan parasite, Canine, haemogram analysis.','The various case reports indicated the importance of hemogram for the diagnosis of blood parasites even in the absence of specific organism in the blood cells. Majority of the Canine monocytic ehrlichiosis was presented with thrombocytopenia, monocytosis, and anemia. Hepatozoonosis was reported with anemia, leukocytosis, neutrophilia, thrombocytopenia and monocytosis. In contrast, anemia, thrombocytopenia and lymphopenia were the blood abnormalities of canine babesiosis. Severe to moderate reduction in TEC, PCV, Hb and TLC values with marginal neutrophilia, eosinophilia and lymphocytopenia was reported with T. evansi infection. Further, the study concluded that the canines with lower RBC, Hb, PCV, and platelet values than the normal hematological profiles were under higher risk for blood parasitic infections.','-','Jeyabal, L. (2019). Hemogram Interpretation and Diagnosis of Blood Parasites of Canines. Biological Forum â€“ An International Journal, 11(1): 290-294'),(3612,'106','Climate Change Induced spatio- temporal Changes in Area, Production and Productivity of Apple in Four Major Apple Growing Districts of Himachal Pradesh, India','Arundhati*, R.M. Bhagat and R.S. Rana','10 Climate Change Induced spatio- temporal Changes in Area, Production and Productivity of Apple in Four Major Apple Growing Districts of Himachal Pradesh, Arundhati.pdf','',1,'The study was carried out in four mountain districts of the state of Himachal Pradesh, India with the objective of delineating spatio-temporal changes in area, production and productivity of apple. ArcGIS platform was used in a windows environment to delineate spatial changes in area, production and productivity over four decades i.e. 1984-2020 using data from the authorized State Departments. It was observed that there is an increase in area under apple and has spread to non-traditional apple growing areas. The production of apple has in general increased as a consequence of increase in area. Apple productivity has fallen in many areas over decades, but this fall in productivity has been compensated by efficient management and following best agro-techniques. The lower areas in the four mountain districts have experienced loss of apple plantations but has been compensated by an increase in areas at higher elevations. The impact of warming has still not crossed the available amplitude o','Climate Change, Productivity, Apple. ','','',''),(3613,'112','Evaluation of Bhendi [Abelmoschus esculentus (L.) Moench] Hybrids under Coastal Region of Karaikal','V. Sundaram* and E. Venkadeswaran','23 Evaluation of Bhendi [Abelmoschus esculentus _L._ Moench] Hybrids under Coastal Region of Karaikal V. Sundaram.pdf','',1,'The material for the present study comprised of 11 F1 hybrids of bhendi assembled from various sources across the country to study their yield potential under coastal ecosystem. As there is no specific high yielding hybrid of bhendi recommended for cultivation in Karaikal region, which is located on the east coast, it is a main challenge to identify a suitable high yielding genotype for coastal region of Karaikal, so as to recommend for similar coastal situations. The hybrids were assessed for per se performance on growth and yield at Pandit Jawaharlal Nehru College of Agriculture and Research Institute, Karaikal, Puducherry, India. The experiment revealed the presence of significant differences for almost all the major growth and yield contributing characters studied. Among the 11 hybrids evaluated, NOH 1648 (Nidhi) recorded the highest plant height at final harvest (166.4 cm) and fruit girth (7.88 cm). The highest fruit weight (32.78 g), number of seeds fruit-1 (74.33), yield plant-1','Bhendi, F1, hybrids, per se performance, okra, yield.','Among the 11 hybrids evaluated, NOH 1758 was found to outperform with an yield of 20.88 tonnes ha-1, followed by Arka Nikitha (17.18 tonnes ha-1) and BHS 680 (16.81 tonnes ha-1) and these hybrids could be commercially explored as bhendi being one of the most suitable vegetable crops for year-round cultivation in this region. The study area is located in the tail end of river Cauvery along the East Coast, experiencing the biotic stress typical of coastal tract. Hence, the findings of the present study would help in extrapolating the findings under similar situation.','-','V. Sundaram and E. Venkadeswaran (2022). Evaluation of Bhendi [Abelmoschus esculentus (L.) Moench] Hybrids under Coastal Region of Karaikal. Biological Forum â€“ An International Journal, 14(1): 143-146.'),(3614,'112','Triallel Analysis for Ginning Outturn in Inter and Intra Specific Cotton Hybrids','Y. Prashanth*, T. Pradeep, A. Sudarshanam, D. Saida Naik and B. Ramprasad','24 Triallel Analysis for Ginning Outturn in Inter and Intra Specific Cotton Hybrids Y. Prashanth.pdf','',1,'Ginning outturn, is one of the economically important trait to enhance lint yield. It showed that high GOT % is good for devising strategy for fiber quality improvement also. Genetical improvement of this complex trait had created attention of conventional plant breeders, any plant breeding technique has to be decided based on the gene action involved for expression trait. Triallel analysis provides information on all types of gene actions viz., additive, dominance and epistatic components besides giving information on order of parents in three-way cross combinations for obtaining superior hybrids transgressive segregants. In the present study an attempt was made to obtain information on gene action controlling the trait ginning outturn of cotton in 60 inter and intra specific three way cross hybrids. The result revealed that, role of additive as well as non-additive gene action in the expression of this trait. Suggested, improvement would be possible by adopting special breeding metho','Ginning outturn, triallel analysis, inter specific cotton hybrids. ','Finally from this study, computation of genetic variances gave an indication of significant amount of both additive and non additive. Positive significant of 1 line general effect of first kind (hi) and second kind (gi) indicated preponderance of additive gene action. The three-way cross having parental lines in the order of (Adilabad kapas-1 Ã— ARBC-64) Ã— ADB-39 exhibited high positive three line effect compared to alternate triplet (Adilabad kapas-1 Ã— ADB-39) Ã— ARBC-64 or (ADB-39 Ã— ARBC-64) Ã— Adilabad kapas-1 that have negative Tijk effects. This clearly indicated the importance order effects of parents in production of potential three-way cross hybrids. The cross ADB-39 Ã— CNH-115 was identified as better combination for SCA among all other. The character was predominantly governed by additive and additive Ã— dominance epistatic component of gene action. Therefore, these findings suggested that, trait improvement would be possible by adopting special breeding methods like in','-','Y. Prashanth, T. Pradeep, A. Sudarshanam, D. Saida Naik and B. Ramprasad (2022). Triallel Analysis for Ginning Outturn in Inter and Intra Specific Cotton Hybrids. Biological Forum â€“ An International Journal, 14(1): 147-150.'),(3615,'112','Improving Seed Germination and Seedling Growth of Guava under Protected Conditions by Pre-Sowing Chemical and Hormonal Seed Treatments','Ajay Kumar Banyal*, Tarun Guleria and Sanjeev Kumar Banyal','25 Improving Seed Germination and Seedling Growth of Guava under Protected Conditions by Pre-Sowing Chemical and Hormonal Seed Treatments Ajay Kumar Banyal.pdf','',1,'Germination of the guava seeds is very poor, uneven and takes a long time because of the hard seed coats. Therefore, the present studies were carried out with the objective to reduce the difficulties in seed germination. Different pre-sowing seed dip treatments viz., GA3 @ 400 and 600 ppm for 24 hours, HCl @ 2.5 and 5.0 % for 2 minutes, H2SO4 @ 2.5 and 5.0 % for 2 minutes, KNO3 @ 0.5% and 1.0% for 24 hours, Cow urine @ 50 and 100 % purity for 24 hours and Control (direct sowing) in Completely Randomized Design with three replications were tried. It has been observed that among different pre-sowing treatments, when guava seeds were dipped in 1.0 % solution of KNO3 for 24 hours, resulted in maximum (83.00%) guava seed germination. However, minimum time for seed germination (18.67 days), maximum mean daily germination (3.09), survival percent (91.67 %) and growth characteristics viz., seedling height, seedling diameter and number of leaves at 30, 60, 90 and 120 days after transplanting we','Guava, seed, KNO3, GA3, germination.','The demand for the quality planting material of guava is increasing at faster pace across the whole country and it becomes hard to fulfill the requirement especially, seedling rootstock. Use of plant growth regulators/chemicals, that enhances the seed germination and their survival in fruit nurseries will boost the income of the growers. In the present study, it has been observed that guava seeds soaked in 600 ppm solution of GA3 for 24 hours found most effective for earliest seed germination (18.67 days), improving mean daily germination (3.09), survival percentage (91.67%), seedling height, seedling diameter and number of leaves. However, guava seeds soaked in 1.0 percent solution of KNO3 for 24 hours resulted in highest per cent seed germination (83.00%).','-','Ajay Kumar Banyal, Tarun Guleria and Sanjeev Kumar Banyal (2022). Improving Seed Germination and Seedling Growth of Guava under Protected Conditions by Pre-Sowing Chemical and Hormonal Seed Treatments. Biological Forum â€“ An International Journal, 14(1):'),(3616,'112','First Report of Choanephora Fruit Rot (Choanephora cucurbitarum) on cucumber and their Incidence and Occurrence under Protected Cultivation in India','Sunil Kumar*, R.R. Ahir, Mahabeer Singh, G.S. Rathore, Shivam Maurya and Poonam Kumari','26 First Report of Choanephora Fruit Rot _Choanephora cucurbitarum_ on cucumber and their Incidence and Occurrence under Protected Cultivation in India Sunil Kumar.pdf','',1,'Cucumis sativam (L.) is creeping vine grown as an off-season vegetable crop under protected poly houses. During survey of major cucumber growing districts of Rajasthan, a new disease â€œChoanephora fruit rot of cucumberâ€ was first time observed and recorded during in 2019-2020. The survey provided baseline information on the distribution, occurrence and incidence of Choanephora fruit rot in the major cucumber growing area of Rajasthan state. During the survey, discussions were held with the farmers concerned, regarding occurrence, incidence and yield losses due to this disease. Choanephora cucurbitarum is the new emerging pathogen as well as serious threat to cucumber and other vegetables in India. The disease incidence was recorded ranged from 45.61 % to 64.22 %. During the rainy season (July-November), the temperature was 28-30Â°C with high humidity (70-90%) that favored disease development. During survey typical symptoms of Choanephora fruit rot were observed under polyhouse condi','Cucumber, Choanephora fruit rot, Cucumis sativam Choanephora cucurbitarum, Survey, Disease incidence.','The present research investigation has opened up new information and given rise to new ideas on Choanephora fruit rot of cucumber. Hence the future lines of work are needed with there is a need to undertake an intensive survey for Choanephora fruit rot disease of cucumber in all agro-climatic zones of Rajasthan and quantify the loss caused by this pathogen. To identify the molecular variability in Choanephora fruit rot pathogen that prevalent in different agro-climatic zone of Rajasthan. ','-','Sunil Kumar, R.R. Ahir, Mahabeer Singh, G.S. Rathore, Shivam Maurya and Poonam Kumari (2022). First Report of Choanephora Fruit Rot (Choanephora cucurbitarum ) on cucumber and their Incidence and Occurrence under Protected Cultivation in India. Biologica'),(3617,'107','Genetic Divergence Studies in Yardlong Bean (Vigna ungiculata subsp sesquipedalis L.) Genotypes','Mithun Kumar, M. Anjanappa, R.K. Ramachandra* and Meenakshi Sood','205 Genetic Divergence Studies in Yardlong Bean _Vigna ungiculata subsp sesquipedalis L. Genotypes R.K. Ramachandra.pdf','',1,'Characterization of germplasm is crucial for using and enhancing plant genetic resources in diverse breeding programmes, hence the field experiments were conducted at the Department of Vegetable Science, College of Horticulture, Kolar, Karnataka, India during 2020â€“21 with 45 genotypes of yardlong bean (Vigna ungiculata subsp. sesquipedalis L.). Genetic diversity among the genotypes was worked out using Mahalanobis D2 statistics. On the basis of genetic distance, these genotypes were broadly grouped into six clusters. Cluster I was the largest, consisting of 34 genotypes, while cluster III contained 6 genotypes, followed by cluster II, consisting of 2 genotypes, and clusters IV, V and VI, consisting of one genotype each. Among the different characters studied, pod yield per plant (27.98 %) contributed the most to the total genetic diversity among the genotypes, followed by 100 seed weight (14.60%), number of primary branches (10.91%), number of pods per plant (10.51%) and pod girth (8','Yardlong bean, genetic diversity, clusters, hybridization.','','',''),(3618,'112','Management of Sodic Water for Radish Seed Production and their Effect on Chemical Properties of Soil','Desh Raj Choudhary*, Avtar Singh, V.P.S. Panghal, Vikash Kumar, Vikram and Surgyan Rundla','27 Management of Sodic Water for Radish Seed Production and their Effect on Chemical Properties of Soil Desh Raj Choudhary.pdf','',1,'Irrigation water is one of the most critical and scarce resource for vegetable production in arid and semiarid regions of India. The lack of good quality water supply for irrigation is now becoming a major issue that forcing the farmers to use low quality water. Keeping view, a field trial was conducted for two years at Research Field of the Department of Vegetable Science, CCS Haryana Agricultural University, Hisar. The experiment consisted of three levels of farmyard manure (0, 10 and 20 t/ha) and gypsum (0, 50 and 100% neutralization of RSC water with gypsum) laid out in factorial RBD with three replications. The application of farmyard manure and gypsum individually and in combination significantly influenced the soil pH, electrical conductivity, exchangeable sodium percentage at harvest time, and seed yield per plant and per hectare of radish crop. The treatment where farmyard manure was applied at the rate of 20 t/ha in combination with 100% neutralization of RSC water through gy','Radish, Seed yield, pH, EC, ESP, FYM, Gypsum, Sodic water. ','Thus, it is concluded that F2G2 treatment combination where farmyard manure was applied at the rate of 20 t/ha along with 100% neutralization of residual sodium carbonate water through gypsum is effective in increased the seed yield of radish and improved soil pH, Electrical conductivity (EC), Exchangeable sodium percentage (ESP) during both of the years of 2017-18 and 2018-19.','-','Desh Raj Choudhary, Avtar Singh, V.P.S. Panghal, Vikash Kumar, Vikram and Surgyan Rundla (2022). Management of Sodic Water for Radish Seed Production and their Effect on Chemical Properties of Soil. Biological Forum â€“ An International Journal, 14(1): 16'),(3619,'112','Study the Sole and Sequential Application of Herbicides on Zn and Fe content Uptake and Economics of Kharif Maize','Gharsiram*, Mukesh Kumar, Pradeep Kumar, Subhash Bijarniya and Monika Shahani','28 Study the Sole and Sequential Application of Herbicides on Zn and Fe content Uptake and Economics of Kharif Maize Gharsiram.pdf','',1,'To study the effect of sole and sequential application of herbicide on economic benefits of maize crop by reducing the crop-weed competition during entire crop growth period. In kharif season maize, crop suffering from continuous rainfall problems that is why management of weed becomes big challenge front of us that time. These challenge effects to the uptake of nutrients and economics of crop. For this purpose, a field experiment was conducted during the kharif 2019 at Agricultural Research farm of TCA Dholi under the RPCAU Pusa, Samastipur (Bihar) in maize crop. The treatments were viz; T1: Weedy check, T2: Topramezone 25.2 g/ha, T3: Tembotrione 120 g/ha, T4: Atrazine 1 kg fb HW, T5: Atrazine 0.75 kg/ha fb Topramezone 25.2 g/ha, T6: Atrazine 0.75 kg fb Tembotrione 120 g/ha, T7: Atrazine 1 kg fb Topramezone 25.2 g/ha, T8: Atrazine 1 kg/ha fb Tembotrione 120 g/ha, T9: Topramezone 25.2 g/ha + Atrazine 0.75 kg/ha, T10: Tembotrione 120 g/ha + Atrazine 0.75 kg/ha, T11: Weed free, allocated','B: C ratio Cost of cultivation, Net return, Tembotrione, Topramezone.','Mainly kharif season maize crop suffering from the continuous rainfall. That time management of weed becomes very difficult because of rainfall. So, application of herbicides reduces the effect of weeds on the crop and itâ€™s also increases in the uptake of nutrients and economic value of grain. Herbicide reduces the cost of cultivation that is why farmer can get more profit from the production of crop and increases production level of the crop.','-','Gharsiram ; Kumar, M.; Kumar, P.; Bijarniya, S.Â¬ and Shahani, M. (2022). Study the Sole and Sequential Application of Herbicides on Zn and Fe content Uptake and Economics of Kharif Maize. Biological Forum â€“ An International Journal, 14(1): 168-173.'),(3620,'112','An Economic Analysis of Climate Change Impact on Income and Adoption of Climate Smart Technologies in Dry Land Farms of Sivagangai District of Tamil Nadu, India','G.R. Rajinikanth*, J.S. Amarnath, B. Sivasankari and V. Arun','29 An Economic Analysis of Climate Change Impact on Income and Adoption of Climate Smart Technologies in Dry Land Farms of Sivagangai District of Tamil Nadu, India G.R. Rajinikanth.pdf','',1,'The study was taken up in Sivagangai district of Tamil Nadu, India with a sample size of 210 farmers. The district is facing extremes of climate change with increased temperature and deceased rainfall and hence the present study was taken up to examine the issue of impact of climate change on net income of farmers with Ricardian model which is a novel study of the district. Adaptation strategies to climate change was analyzed with Tobit model and the policy advocacy henceforth suggested would go long way in achieving the environmental sustainability of the region. 70 farmers were selected each for the low dry land, medium dry land and high dry land areas of the district. For low dry land, the principal crop identified was paddy, for medium dry land, the principal crop identified was groundnut and for high dry land, the principal crop identified was black gram. The results indicated that paddy was the most profitable among the dryland farms of Sivagangai District followed by Black gram ','Low dry land, medium dry land, high dry land, maximum temperature, minimum temperature, rainfall, Ricardian model and Tobit model. ','Future researches on vulnerability and resilience to climate change, sustainability of dry land farms and livelihood security of dry land farmers could be conducted for the development of dry land farming in Tamil Nadu, India. Optimal farm plans could also be further developed with Minimisation of Total Absolute Deviation (MOTAD) model for the dry land farmers in Tamil Nadu, India to enhance their income with risk.','-','G.R. Rajinikanth, J.S. Amarnath, B. Sivasankari and V. Arun (2022). An Economic Analysis of Climate Change Impact on Income and Adoption of Climate Smart Technologies in Dry Land Farms of Sivagangai District of Tamil Nadu, India. Biological Forum â€“ An I'),(3621,'112','Effect of Media for in vitro Seed Germination of Vanda coerulea','Himal Pokhrel* and Amitava Paul','30 Effect of Media for in vitro Seed Germination of Vanda coerulea H. Pokhrel.pdf','',1,'Vanda Coerulea is a monopodial orchid and its propagation in nature through seed germination is difficult. So, in vitro propagation through germination of the seed using different media is being carried out for the study. For in vitro seed germination of Vanda coerulea, four basal media (MS, Mitra, Knudson C and Vacin & Went) were taken for the study. Four replications in each media were taken with eight culture bottles for each replication. 9-10 months old immature hand pollinated seed pods were used as a seed source. Standard media preparation procedure was followed and pH of the media was adjusted to 5.3. Sterilized seed pod was brought inside the laminar air flow for seed culture. After successful culture of seeds, the cultured bottles were kept at the culture room with outmost care under supervision. Color change and swelling of seeds were observed after few weeks of culture. Gradually swelling portion turned into Plbs in due course of time and emergence of shoots and roots was ob','in vitro, seed pod, basal media, germination, Vanda coerulea.','The findings of the present study conclude that MS basal media can be used for in vitro propagation of Vanda coerulea as it can give maximum seed germination and shoot initiation in a short period of time.','-','Himal Pokhrel and Amitava Paul (2022). Effect of Media for in vitro Seed Germination of Vanda coerulea. Biological Forum â€“ An International Journal, 14(1): 180-183.'),(3622,'112','SWOT Analysis of Private Extension Service Providers in Andhra Pradesh','S. Naveen Kumar*, P. Gidda Reddy and R. Ratnakar','31 SWOT Analysis of Private Extension Service Providers in Andhra Pradesh S. Naveen Kumar.pdf','',1,'Agricultural Extension means the application of scientific research, adoption of innovations in agricultural technologies, expansion of knowledge arena and up scaling the skill oriented activities through farmers education. Farmers education is not a simple task in a country like India, where diversified cultures, food habits, topographical variations, monsoon based farming systems, multiple crop ecosystems etc., Hence, to educate and make them to follow innovation decision process attributes while adopting new technologies would be a big challenge to any extension system. Keeping this in view, an explorative and analytical study was taken to elicit the strengths, weakness, opportunities and threats of private extension system in Andhra Pradesh state. It is clearly denoted that the private extension service providers were having personal mobility and transport facilities, wider and deep rooted marketing network, supportive finance and acquiring required material in time, effective mas','Pluralism, Agricultural Extension Service Providers, Private Extension Service Providers, Strengths, Weaknesses, Opportunities and Threats.','Summing up, the results of the study revealed that private extension service providers have sufficient financial strength, deep rooted market network, ground level knowledge base and skill oriented staff, well driven work force might not only serve the purpose. If they could penetrate more into larger section of the farming community at affordable charges would benefit both. Further, there is a necessity to collaborate and create effective functional linkages with government as well as NGO service providers while delivering services. This will build more faith full relation and enhances the confidence among clientele group finally creates win-win situation for both. This study paves the way to conduct more insightful enquiry of future possibilities of private extension service providers to expand their horizon and for transformation of Indian agriculture into market driven rather than conventional production process.','-','S. Naveen Kumar, P. Gidda Reddy and R. Ratnakar (2022). SWOT Analysis of Private Extension Service Providers in Andhra Pradesh. Biological Forum â€“ An International Journal, 14(1): 184-188.'),(3623,'112','Social Impact Assessment of Agricultural Technologies with Special Reference to Sericulture Sector-A Review','Gulzar Ahmad Khan*, Gulab Khan Rohela, G.R. Manjunatha, Muttanna, Satish Y., G.R. Halagundegowda, Colin Z. Renthelei and Sardar Singh','32 Social Impact Assessment of Agricultural Technologies with Special Reference to Sericulture Sector-A Review Gulzar Ahmad Khan.pdf','',1,'Technology uses resources, to produce other resources which affects and is affected by the society for over all development of the society. However, the investment of resources on technological development calls for assessment of the contributions of these technologies towards the development goals. Historically, researchers and extension workers have been mainly accountable for identifying and infusing economic and environmental factors into the process of agriculture technology development. In the same line R&D institutes of Central Silk Board have developed technologies ranging from soil to silk innovations, which are at various technology readiness levels (TRLs) and it is continuous process to meet the requirement of end users. But owing to climate change and increase in population, agriculture and allied sectors have been under high stress not only for producing food, fibre, maintaining environment but also providing social security and sustainable livelihood options to primary pr','Economic factors, Environmental factors, Social Impact, Social Security, Sustainable Livelihood, Primary producers.','Most of the stakeholders involved in sericulture are poor farmers and through this occupation they not only want to generate the livelihood for their sustenance but also want to have a progressive impact on the social life and wellbeing which includes education to their children, leisure time, social status etc. As the trend till know has been linear diffusion of technologies, top-down approach of developmental programmes without considering social impacts, thereby giving up and down results in cocoon production, quality of cocoons, market crashes resulting in farmers crop losses. Therefore crafting policies in sericulture R&D sector for more sustainability and equality requires inclusion of various costs, benefits and externalities of technologies and innovations, taking into account region and season specific cropping patterns, climatic conditions, technology transfer channels, local resources, social customs, stratification, traditions etc.','-','Gulzar Ahmad Khan, Gulab Khan Rohela, G.R. Manjunatha, Muttanna, Satish Y., G.R. Halagundegowda, Colin Z. Renthelei and Sardar Singh (2022). Social Impact Assessment of Agricultural Technologies with Special Reference to Sericulture Sector-A Review. Biolo'),(3624,'107','Phytochemical Studies of Curry (Murraya koenigii) and Eucalyptus (Eucalyptus globulus) Leaves Extracts','Ravi Kumar Khare, Giridhari Das*, Suman Kumar, Vidhi Gautam, Subhradal Nath, Rupesh Verma, Jai Prakash, Vikram Poonia, Supriya Sachan, Musku Nikhitha Reddy and Nitin Yadav','206 Phytochemical Studies of Curry _Murraya koenigii_ and Eucalyptus _Eucalyptus globulus_ Leaves Extracts Ravi Kumar Khare.pdf','',1,'In the traditional system of medicine Murraya koenigii and Eucalyptus globulus is important medicinal plant cultivated throughout India. The plants have a peculiar characteristic aroma and are used against the wide variety of ailments caused by several pathogenic entities. Every part of each plant has been medicinal values and is of economic important. The highest yield of aqueous and methanolic eucalyptus leaves extracts were 13.07% and 17.17%, respectively whereas for curry leaves extracts were 09.02% and 16.71%, respectively. The blackish and greenish brown colored extract was observed in aqueous and methanolic eucalyptus leaves, respectively whereas the brownish black and brown color extracts were seen in aqueous and methanolic curry leaves, respectively. The solid or powdery consistency was revealed in aqueous eucalyptus leaves and methanolic curry leaves extracts whereas the solid consistency was noted in methanolic eucalyptus leaves extract while semi-solid in aqueous curry leav','Eucalyptus globulus, Murraya koenigii, Phyto-constituents, Traditional medicines. ','','',''),(3625,'107','Studies on Nesting and Hunting Behavior of Pison punctifrons Shuckard, 1838 and Sceliphron madraspatanum (Fabricius, 1781) (Apoidea: Hymenoptera: Insecta) in Dehradun, Uttarakhand, India','Shivani Sharma* and Gaurav Sharma','207 Studies on Nesting and Hunting Behavior of Pison punctifrons Shuckard, 1838 and Sceliphron madraspatanum _Fabricius, 1781_ _Apoidea Gaurav Sharma.pdf','',1,'The studies on nesting and hunting behavior of Pison punctifrons Shuckard, 1838 and Sceliphron madraspatanum (Fabricius, 1781) has been conducted in Dehradun, Uttarakhand, India during 2019-21. Both species of wasps constructed their nests in pre and early monsoon period in the safest places away from rain and sunlight. Wasps carry moist soil with their mandibles, jaws and forelegs to the nest site and fix it to the solid surfaces. Pison punctifrons pushes the soil inside the cell by their legs and use their abdomen to give shape to the nest. The female spent maximum time inside the nest during whole process of nest building, occasionally comes out to do inspections and constructed three to five cells within one nest. In the Sceliphron madraspatanum wasps the female had constructed one cell and filled it up with spiders and sealed it after egg-laying. The observations recorded that both wasps are parasitoid by nature they raised their young ones on the diet of paralysed spiderlings and','Nesting behavior, Pison punctifrons, Sceliphron madraspatanum.','','',''),(3626,'112','Nursery Management Options for Enhancing Post Flood Survival, Productivity and Economics of Rice (Oryza sativa L.) under Submergence in West Central Table Land Zone of Odisha','B.S. Bishoyi*, B. Duary, S.S. Nanda, U.K. Behera and C. Patra','33 Nursery Management Options for Enhancing Post Flood Survival, Productivity and Economics of Rice _Oryza sativa L._ under Submergence in West Central Table Land Zone of Odisha B.S. Bishoyi.pdf','',1,'A field experiment was conducted at the Instructional Farm of the College of Agriculture, Chiplima, Sambalpur, Odisha kharif seasons in the year 2019 where submergence tolerant rice (Cultivar â€˜Swarna sub 1â€™) was taken as test crop to investigate the effect of nursery management on seedling vigour and post flood survival of rice (Oryza sativa L.) as well as to study its subsequent effect on yield and economics under submergence. As Post flood survival and subsequent plant establishment are major challenges in flood prone areas, which many often depend upon the seedling vigour at the time of transplanting. Application of fertilizers and sowing of the pre germinated seeds were done as per the treatments. The Main field lay out was done as per the nursery lay out. A common Fertilizer dose of N:P2O5:K2O at 80:40:40 kg ha-1 was applied in the main field. Plants were completely submerged at 10 DAT with a water depth of 1.1 meter for a period of 15 days. From the experimental findings it','Rice, Submergence, Nursery management, Nutrient management, Age of seedling, Seeding density.','Application of N:P2O5:K2O at 80:40:40 kg ha-1 where 25 kg N applied through FYM @ 5 t ha-1, seeding density of 40 g m-2 in the nursery and transplanting of 40 days old seedlings resulted comparable growth parameters of seedling at transplanting. Such practices significantly increased the post flood survival of rice leading to record significantly higher grain and straw yield and return rupees-1 invested of rice in flood prone low land condition. These practices can effectively be implemented in other states of India as well as Bangladesh and in the regions having similar ecologies','-','B.S. Bishoyi, B. Duary, S.S. Nanda, U.K. Behera and C. Patra (2022). Nursery Management Options for Enhancing Post Flood Survival, Productivity and Economics of Rice (Oryza sativa L.) under Submergence in West Central Table Land Zone of Odisha. Biological'),(3627,'112','Characterization (Diversity Analysis) in Germplasm of Sesame\r\n (Sesamum indicum L.)\r\n','Divya K.*, Shobha Rani T., Padmaja D. and Kiran Babu T.','34 Characterization _Diversity Analysis_ in Germplasm of Sesame _Sesamum indicum L._ Divya K.pdf','',1,'Diversity reveals the presence of variability in nature which helps in identifying elite genotypes. In the present study, 133 sesame genotypes comprised of mutant breeding lines, indigenous lines, IVTâ€™s, AVTâ€™s, MLTâ€™s, popular varieties and checks were evaluated for the genetic diversity. Considerable amount of diversity was found among the genotypes for all the ten characters studied and cluster analysis grouped the genotypes into nineteen distinct clusters. Cluster I was the largest with fifty-four genotypes and 13 clusters (V, VI, VII, VIII, X, XI, XII, XIII, XV, XVI, XVII, XVIII, XIX) were with one genotype each. The study also revealed that cluster XV has low estimate for phyllody (% incidence) and genotypes from this cluster can be used as donors in resistance breeding programme. The genotypes with specific traits could be selected and used in the crossing programme to improve the yield and disease resistance in sesame. ','Genetic diversity, D2- statistics, sesame, phyllody, mutant breeding lines and resistance breeding. ','Genetic diversity has direct relation in creating variability through hybridization. The genotypes from diverse clusters like XIV & XV; XIV & XVIII having high inter-custer distances should be used rather than the genotypes of clusters having low divergence to create variability and to identify heterotic cross combinations for harvesting hybrid vigour, also for utilisation in the hybridization programme (Narayanan and Murugan., 2013). In breeding programmes, parents having high yield potential with wide genetic diversity are likely to yield superior transgressive segregants within short period (Maurya and Singh, 1977). Such genotypes can also be utilised in heterosis breeding to develop high yield recombinants (Mohanty et al., 2020). In addition, by using marker systems as a part of biotechnological tool efficiency in identifying the transgressive segregants or recombinants can be improved.','-','Divya K., Shobha Rani T., Padmaja D. and Kiran Babu T. (2022). Characterization (Diversity Analysis) in Germplasm of Sesame (Sesamum indicum L.). Biological Forum â€“ An International Journal, 14(1): 204-209.'),(3628,'112','Development of Methodology for Estimation of Chlorantraniliprole Residues in Tomato','Sanjay Kumar Sahoo, Vinod Kumar* and B. Sujatha','35 Development of Methodology for Estimation of Chlorantraniliprole Residues in Tomato Vinod Kumar.pdf','',1,'Chlorantraniliprole is quite effective in management of fruit borer in tomato and approved for use in India. The continuous use of pesticides for protecting insect pests may further aggravate the problem of pesticide residues. The methodology for estimation of its residues is required. For this QuEChERS techniques with slight modification have been standardised in this study. The approach may be employed for quantitative analyte assessment in a variety of agricultural products whilst still minimising the usage of organic solvents, allowing the methodology to gain greater acceptance. The motto of this present study is to standardize and validate the QuEChERS method for the assessment of chlorantraniliprole residues in tomato. Aliquots of tomato samples were analyzed by using UHPLC- PDA with a C18 column. â€œRetention timeâ€ was observed to be 4.327 min. Mean recoveries of chlorantraniliprole in tomato samples spiked 0.5, 0.25 and 0.05 mg kg-1 varied about 85.33 to 87.60 per cent. LOQ ','QuEChERS; Chlorantraniliprole; Tomato; HPLC.','QuEChERS method was standardized and validated with slight modifications by following SANCO guidelines for assessment of chlorantraniliprole in tomato. Mean recoveries were found to be greater than 80 per cent. RSDr for chlorantraniliprole in tomato at 0.05-0.25 mg kg-1 was 2.949 to 7.306 per cent. RSDR of chlorantraniliprole at 0.05 mg kg-1 was 4.671 per cent.','-','Sanjay Kumar Sahoo, Vinod Kumar and B. Sujatha (2022). Development of Methodology for Estimation of Chlorantraniliprole Residues in Tomato. Biological Forum â€“ An International Journal, 14(1): 210-214.'),(3630,'112','Field Evaluation of in vitro Derived Mutants of different Varieties of Banana on Fruit Quality Parameters','Kirankumar K.H.*, Prakasha D.P., Kulapati Hipparagi, Prabhuling G., Basavarajappa M.P., Sanjeevraddi G. Reddi and MD. Jameel Jhalegar','36 Field Evaluation of in vitro Derived Mutants of Different Varieties of Banana on Fruit Quality Parameters Kirankumar K.H.pdf','',1,'A field experiment was conducted on field evaluation of in vitro derived mutants of different varieties of banana during 2018-19 and 2019-20 at the Department of Fruit Science, College of Horticulture, University of Horticultural Sciences, Bagalkot. The 138 in vitro derived banana mutants both physical and chemical mutagens treated plants along with check were planted. The experiment was laid out in Augmented block design with 6 blocks and 26 subplots each block having 23 in vitro mutant lines and three checks. The different parameters like pulp weight, peel weight, pulp to peel ratio, fruit firmness, flavour acceptance and shelf life were taken for quality parameters. Among 138 in vitro derived mutants in plant crop, there was no significant difference noted in pulp weight, pulp to peel ratio and fruit firmness. The maximum pulp weight was recorded in NR45Gy-09 (86.45 g), peel weight, RAJ45Gy-14 (20.00 g) pulp to peel ratio YB35Gy-05 (6.70) flavour acceptance, YB40Gy- 03 (7.82) fruit','Banana, in vitro, physical mutants, chemical mutants, pulp weight, peel weight, shelf life.','Mutation induction can lead to enhance heritable variation this might be useful for functional genomics or breeding application. This can be exploited for suppressing vegetative character like plant height and improve fruit quality parameters like peel weight, shelf life and flavour acceptance. The application of gamma radiation and chemical mutagen is a promising technique to obtain good quality parameters in banana.','-','Kirankumar, K. H.; Prakasha, D. P.; Hipparagi, K.; Prabhuling, G.; Basavarajappa, M. P.; Reddi, S.G. and Jhalegar, J. (2022). Field Evaluation of in vitro Derived Mutants of Different Varieties of Banana on Fruit Quality Parameters. Biological Forum â€“ A'),(3631,'112','Effect of Biofloc Technology with different Carbon sources on Growth Performance of Pearl Spot Etroplus suratensis under Flow through System','V. Susitharan, C.B.T. Rajagopalsamy, C. Sindhu, S.J. Abisha Juliet Mary and R. Dinesh*','37 Effect of Biofloc Technology with different Carbon Sources on Growth Performance of Pearl Spot Etroplus suratensis under Flow through System R. Dinesh.pdf','',1,'Biofloc is an unsung hero of sustainable aquaculture that has been recently adopted by most fish and shrimp farmers to scale up their production. The present study evaluated the effect of biofloc technology with different carbon sources on water quality and growth performance of pearl spot (Etroplus suratensis) in a flow through system consisting of a reservoir tank (1000 L), rearing tanks (500 L), and effluent tank (300 L) for 60 days. The biofloc has been made with different carbon sources, viz., Jaggery (T1), Cassava flour (T2), Corn flour (T3) and a control with a conventional carbon source (sugar treated) and with a carbon/nitrogen (C/N) ratio of 15:1 in a reservoir tank. The effluent from the rearing tank is collected in the effluent tank, then the effluent is pumped into the reservoir tank. The Pearl spot E. suratensis was stocked at a rate of 25 fishes per 0.3 cubic metre, with mean length and weight ranging from 2.62 Â± 0.005 cm to 2.71 Â± 0.005 cm and 1.05 Â± 0.002 g to 1.08 ','Biofloc, Pearl spot, Carbon sources, Jaggery, Growth performance.','The present investigation has given a clear insight into the nursery rearing of Pearl Spot E. suratensis, which readily accepted biofloc as an in-situ feed without any supplementary pellet feed for the entire duration of experimental nursery rearing. Furthermore, the growth increment of the pearl spot in terms of SGR was 2.34 times greater in BFT than in conventional systems which appear to be impressive. Therefore, the present study concludes that jaggery can result in better growth and production of pearl spots. These findings will entice stakeholders to accelerate adoption in the field for improved growth and yield.','-','V. Susitharan, C.B.T. Rajagopalsamy, C. Sindhu, S.J. Abisha Juliet Mary and R. Dinesh (2022). Effect of Biofloc Technology with Different Carbon Sources on Growth Performance of Pearl Spot Etroplus suratensis under Flow Through System. Biological Forum â€'),(3632,'60','Concurrent infection of Babesia canis and Ehrlichia canis in a Labrador Retriever Dog','Jeyabal L.*, Nagarajan, K. and Ramnaresh K.','24 Concurrent infection of Babesia canis and Ehrlichia canis in a Labrador Retriever Dog Jeyabal L.pdf','',1,'Vector-borne diseases (VBD) of canines persuade a hidden threat all over the globe and its prevalence is high in India due to the favorable hot and humid climatic conditions. Out of prevailing VBD, canine ehrlichiosis, babesiosis and hepatozoonosis are commonly reported, followed by anaplasmosis and trypanosomosis. In the present case report, an atypical case of co-infection with Ehrlichia canis and Babesia canis was observed in a two and half years old Labrador Retriever, female dog with the symptoms of anorexia, pale mucous membrane, transient fever, enlarged popliteal lymph node, distended abdomen, exercise intolerance, debility and severe panting, which was not responded to the earlier treatment of four doses of cefotaxime. Peripheral blood cytology revealed a mixed infection of B. canis and E. canis. Further, the pet was treated with deep intramuscular injection of a single dose of diminazene aceturate at 3.5mg/kg body weight followed by oral doxycycline at 10mg/kg for initial 10 ','Babesia canis, Ehrlichia canis, Anaemia, Doxycycline, Diminazine, Levamisole.','The gold standard traditional microscopic examination of peripheral blood smears in correlation with hemogram is consistently an effective method for diagnosing and treating vector-borne blood parasites at the field level. However, the technique is time-consuming and less sensitive in detecting carriers. Mixed infection of different haemoparasites in dogs are common in India, which warrants awareness among field veterinarians, and this could be due to repeated exposure of the infected dogs to ticks infected with different parasites. Further, in the current study, the recovery was good with the routinely used babesicidal (diminazene) and anti rickettsial drug (Doxycycline) along with immune-modulatory (Levamisole) and other supportive therapy. In this conventional study, we did not pursue the detection of genomic DNA of Ehrlichia and Babesia for the species level confirmation.','-','Jeyabal, L., Nagarajan, K. and Ramnaresh, K. (2019). Concurrent infection of Babesia canis and Ehrlichia canis in a Labrador Retriever Dog. Biological Forum â€“ An International Journal, 11(2): 174-178.'),(3633,'112','Field Evaluation and Bio-efficacy of different Bio-pesticides and Botanicals against Mustard Web Worm (Crocidolomia binotais Zell.)','Kamal Narayan*, R.K.S. Tomar, A.K. Awasthi, Archana Kerketta, Lavkush Salame, Sachin Kumar Jaiswal and Arpit Mishra\r\n','38 Field Evaluation and Bio-efficacy of Different bio-pesticides and botanicals Against Mustard Web Worm Crocidolomia binotais Zell. Kamal Narayan.pdf','',1,'The experiment was carried out at Research farm of BTC CARS, Bilaspur during Rabi 2019-20. A field experiment was laid down in randomized block design (RBD) with six bio-pesticides and botanicals one insecticide and an untreated control. Bio-pesticides do not have harmful affect against bio-agents. The insecticide Imidacloprid 17.8 SL @ 0.2ml/liter was found to be most effective treatment against mustard web worm and it was recorded least over all mean population (3.29 larvae/plant) with maximum larval reduction per cent (72.16) followed by Garlic extract 5% @ 50 ml/lit, recorded with 3.61 over all mean population and 69.46 per cent reduction in web worm population whereas Beauveria bassiana 10 % WP (1 Ã— 109CFU/gm) @ 10 g/lit. was recorded with 3.83 larvae/plant, 67.59 cent reduction in population while other treatments viz Metarhizium anisopliae 10% WP (1 Ã— 109 CFU/gm) @ 10g/lit. , Lecanicillium lecanii 10% WP (1 Ã— 109 CFU/gm) @ 10 g/lit, Aak leaf extract 5% @ 50 ml/lit. and A','Crocidolomia binotais (Zell.), bio-pesticide and botanical-agents.','The results show that biopesticides of mustard crops Imidachloprid, Beauveria bassiana, Garlic (Allium sativam L.) extracts 5%, and Aak (Calotropis sp. L.) Leaf extract 5% web worm control is an effective biopesticides and obtaining a higher yield and economic return. Thus biopesticides of mustard with an effective production in Bilaspur as well as in other developing state that have similar socio-economic backgrounds. ','-','Kamal Narayan, R.K.S. Tomar, A.K. Awasthi, Archana Kerketta, Lavkush Salame, Sachin Kumar Jaiswal and Arpit Mishra (2022). Field Evaluation and Bio-efficacy of different bio-pesticides and botanicals against Mustard Web Worm (Crocidolomia binotais Zell'),(3634,'112','Effect of different Modes of Pollination on Sesame Yield Parameters','K. Sankara Rao*, Yogesh Kumar, Sunita Yadav, Rinku Poonia and Sudhansu Bala Nayak','39 Effect of Different Modes of Pollination on Sesame Yield Parameters K. Sankara Rao.pdf','',1,'Sesame flowers are often visited by a myriad of insects and they play an important role in crop pollination. Determination of role of insect pollinators on qualitative and quantitative yield parameters is of great importance. Hence the present study was conducted on two selected sesame varieties, HT-1 and HT-2 at the CCS Haryana Agricultural University Research Farm in Hisar during the kharif of two consecutive years, 2017 and 2018. The results revealed a significant difference in all the recorded parameters, viz., capsule setting percent, number of capsules, 1000 seed weight, seed yield, germination percent, seed vigour and oil content in the provided treatments. Bee pollinated plots were found to be superior, followed by open pollination, while the plots without insect pollination had shown the lowest improvement in the observed parameters. Among the bee-pollinated treatments, Bee Pollination-8F (Apis mellifera F. hive with 8 frame strength) was the best treatment, followed by Bee ','Sesame, bee pollination, open pollination, seed yield, seed germination, oil content. ','The present study provided evidence that insect pollination can improve sesame yield parameters. The impact of open pollination (OP) and a variety of bee-pollinated treatments (8F, 6F, 4F) on yield parameters were significantly greater than that of the without insect pollination treatment (WIP). In both the selected varieties, the plot with eight framed beehive was found superior followed by a plot with six framed and four framed hives. Bees were successful in transferring pollen from anthers to stigma, allowing ovules in the ovary to fertilize on time. As a result of frequent visits of A. mellifera hive bees, the ovary was properly filled, resulting in an increase in capsule setting percentage, capsule weight, seeds per capsule, and seed yield. Further, there was the enhancement in other important quality parameters viz., seed germination, seed vigour and oil content. These results imply that pollinators visiting crops at the right time of phenology could boost sesame yields.','-','K. Sankara Rao, Yogesh Kumar, Sunita Yadav, Rinku Poonia and Sudhansu Bala Nayak (2022). Effect of different Modes of Pollination on Sesame Yield Parameters. Biological Forum â€“ An International Journal, 14(1): 238-242.'),(3635,'112','Socio Economic Study on Housing and Health Managemental Practices of Buffalo Farming in Phulera Block of Jaipur District, Rajasthan','Jhabar Mal Tetarwal*, Ramesh Pandey, Goatm Chopra, Arjun Lal Kakraliya and Kanchan Baghla','40 Socio Economic Study on Housing and Health Managemental Practices of Buffalo Farming in Phulera Block of Jaipur District, Rajasthan Jhabar Mal Tetarwal.pdf','',1,'The current study entitled \'A socio-economic survey on housing management practices and health buffalo farming in Phulera Block of Jaipur District, Rajasthan\' was conducted for 2019-20 with a sample of 80 respondents. With regard to housekeeping procedures a large number (60.00 percent) respondents kept their pets inside the living room. None of the respondents had a pucca-covered floor. The 82.50 percent respondents fixed the shed wall with bricks and mortar followed by 17.50 percent grass. The largest number of respondents had a pucca can (56.25 percent). Ninety percent of respondents followed the habit of grooming their buffalo. About 38.75% of respondents built a water tank at the animal shelter. Most of the 70.00 percent of respondents followed the grazing methods of pregnant animals. The results showed that 61.25 percent of respondents identified buffalo before giving birth and 82.50 percent provided bedding for pregnant buffaloes. Only 75 percent of respondents had adequate ligh','Housing, managemental practices, animals, health.','Research shows that the majority of respondents does not follow the recommended procedures for housing, health & care management. The majority of respondents following the results of existing milk management practices showed that 78.75 percent of respondents followed the milking process. With regard to housekeeping procedures a large number (60.00 percent) respondents kept their pets inside the living room. In terms of health care procedures the results revealed that 68.75 percent of the owners treat their animals for a thousand first and then veterinarians. The majority of 76.25 percent of respondents did not vaccinate their animals against diseases. Most respondents do not follow recommended health care, milking, home management procedures. Basically the importance of RBQ One of the difficulties was the failure to vaccinate animals buffalo owners face in Phulera tehsils.','-','Jhabar Mal Tetarwal, Ramesh Pandey, Goatm Chopra, Arjun Lal Kakraliya and Kanchan Baghla (2022). Socio Economic Study on Housing and Health Managemental Practices of Buffalo Farming in Phulera Block of Jaipur District, Rajasthan. Biological Forum â€“ An '),(3636,'112','Assessment of different Media on Growth and Sclerotia Formation of Sclerotinia sclerotiorum causing Sclerotinia Rot of Chilli under Laboratory condition','Satyadev Prajapati*, Naresh Kumar, Shailesh Godika, Lalita Lakhran, Shivam Maurya and Sunil Kumar','41 Assessment of different Media on Growth and Sclerotia Formation of Sclerotinia sclerotiorum causing Sclerotinia Rot of Chilli under Laboratory condition Satyadev Prajapati.pdf','',1,'The efficacy of several solid and liquid media on Sclerotinia sclerotiorun growth (on the 7th day) and sclerotia formation (on the 15th day) was tested in the lab. The Potato Dextrose Agar medium had the highest mycelial growth (90.00 mm) and the most sclerotia formation (28.67), followed by Malt extract agar (76.68 mm and 17.33) and Oat meal medium (59.00 mm and 10.34), and Martins medium had the lowest mycelial growth (11.00 mm) and the fewest sclerotia formation (0.00). After 14 days of inoculation at 25oC, Potato Dextrose broth had the highest dry mycelial weight (170.16 mg) and number of sclerotia formation (21.75) of the five liquid media examined. Following that was Richard\'s medium (147.98 mg and 15.75). Asthana and Hawkerâ€™s medium was recorded least dry mycelial weight and numbers of sclerotia formation.','Solid and liquid media, mycelial, sclerotia, Sclerotinia clerotiorun.','Nutrition is critical for improved development and sclerotia formation. Potato Dextrose Agar Medium, followed by Malt Extract Agar Medium, was shown to be the best for maximal growth and sclerotia production after studies on the influence of six different solid media on growth and sclerotia formation. Martin\'s medium had the least amount of growth and no sclerotia. After 14 days of inoculation, studies on the influence of several liquid media on dry mycelial weight and sclerotia development of Sclerotinia sclerotiorum in vitro revealed that Potato dextrose broth had the highest dry mycelial weight and sclerotia formation, followed by Richards medium. The medium Asthana and Hawker species, on the other hand, had the lowest dry mycelial weight and sclerotia production.','-','Satyadev Prajapati, Naresh Kumar, Shailesh Godika, Lalita Lakhran, Shivam Maurya and Sunil Kumar (2022). Assessment of Different Media on Growth and Sclerotia Formation of Sclerotinia sclerotiorum causing Sclerotinia Rot of Chilli under Laboratory conditi'),(3637,'112','Pre-sowing Seed Treatment for Elite Seedling Production in Arabica coffee\r\n (Coffea arabica L.)\r\n','Senthil Raj R.*, V. Manonmani, P.R. Renganayaki, P. Jeyakumar, C. Babou and K.P. Ragupathi','42 Pre-sowing Seed treatment for elite seedling production in Arabica coffee _Coffea arabica L._ Senthil Raj R.pdf','',1,'Study on identifying the suitability of different pre-sowing seed treatment for enhanced seed germination, seedling establishment and elite seedling production in Arabica coffee (Coffea arabica L.) cv. Chandragiri was conducted with aim to overcome the delayed and uneven germination leading to inferior seedling production. Pre sowing seed treatment for 36 h with different organic inputs viz., Panchakavya, Jeevamirtham, Tender coconut water, Buttermilk, Fish amino acid and Egg amino acid was carried out at 5% and 10% concentrations. It was revealed from the study that, the earliness, enhanced germination and vigour of coffee seedling was greatly influenced by different pre sowing seed treatments undertaken. Coffee seeds pre-treated with Panchakavya 10% recorded early initial germination on 9 days, 50 % germination was observed on 18 days and final germination was observed on 38 days, speed of germination was also higher (1.29) when compared with other treatments and control. Maximum ger','Coffee, Pre-sowing seed treatment, Panchakavya, Germination, Seedling vigour.','The present research findings indicate that earliness in germination, improved germination, enhanced growth and vigour of coffee seedlings were greatly influenced by different organic pre sowing treatments. Pre sowing treatment of coffee seeds with 10 % Panchakavya for 36 h recorded early initial germination, 50 % germination and final germination, speed of germination was also higher when compared with other treatments and control. Maximum germination, shoot length, root length, dry matter production, vigour index I, vigour index II was also observed in the Panchakavya 10% treatment. It also recorded the higher fresh root weight, dry root weight and root volume when compared with control and other treatments. Thus, from the above results, it could be concluded that the Pre sowing treatment of coffee seeds with 10 % Panchakavya for 36 h is the best Pre sowing treatment for elite seedling production in Arabica coffee.','-','Senthil Raj, R., V. Manonmani, P.R. Renganayaki, P. Jeyakumar, C. Babou and K.P. Ragupathi (2022). Pre-sowing Seed treatment for elite seedling production in Arabica coffee (Coffea arabica L.). Biological Forum â€“ An International Journal, 14(1): 254-25'),(3638,'113','Analysis of Domestic Consumption and Background Leakage Trends for Alexandra Township, South Africa','R.P. Mathye, M. Scholz and S. Nyende-Byakika','1 Analysis of Domestic Consumption and Background Leakage Trends for Alexandra Township, South Africa Risimati Patrick Mathye.pdf','',1,'Water is a scare resource whose conservation through water loss reduction is significant. This paper seeks to introduce the significance of comparative method that combines hydraulic flow data preparation techniques, minimum night flow method as well as classical linear regression methods to analyze customer consumption and background leakage trend. The authors selected Alexandra, a socio-economic township in Johannesburg, South Africa, as a case study. Existing challenges in Alexandra are high population, high water demand exacerbated by ageing infrastructure and exponential background domestic leakages. The results showed the minimum night flow of 14.01 % measured at a flow rate of 196.39 l/s and a linear regression value (R2) of 0.096. Two comparative property consumption results show linear regression values (R2) of 0.0088 and 2 x 10-5 and a combined flowrate of 364.41 kl per year. The study demonstrated that combination of hydraulic flow data, minimum night flow and linear regress','Bulk Flow Logging, Customer Consumption Trends, Background Leakages, Minimum Night Flows, Water Loss Reduction','','',''),(3639,'112','Knowledge of Beneficiaries and Non-Beneficiaries about Recommended Goat Farming Practices under Attracting and Retaining Youth in Agriculture (ARYA) Project','Sonika Sharma* and R.S. Rathore','43 Knowledge of Beneficiaries and Non-Beneficiaries about Recommended Goat Farming Practices under Attracting and Retaining Youth in Agriculture _ARYA_ Project Sonika Sharma.pdf','',1,'Krishi Vigyan Kendra, Banswara was locale of the study because initially Attracting and Retaining Youth in Agriculture (ARYA) project was implemented through KVKs in 25 states of the country. In Rajasthan, Banswara is the only district in which this project was initiated. Under, ARYA project, Goat farming is the major aspect chosen for the present study. Total 120 respondents were taken for the study. With this context, the present study has been carried out to know the Knowledge of beneficiaries and non-beneficiaries about recommended goat farming practices under ARYA project. Results show that 75.00 per cent of beneficiaries and 68.33 per cent of non-beneficiaries had medium knowledge level followed by low level and high level of knowledge category. Among recommended goat farming practices, farmers had more knowledge in breeding practices with first rank with MPS 79.44 and MPS 77.04 by beneficiary and non-beneficiary followed by feeding practices (MPS 76.11 and MPS 72.78 by beneficia','Attracting, Retaining, Youth, Goat farming, knowledge.','Extension agencies involved in livestock development should focus their efforts on educating goat keepers about recommended practices of goat rearing and management by providing training, organizing field excursions, and holding demonstrations. A large proportion of goat owners were unaware of improved and prolific breeds released and recommended by state agricultural universities. As a result, the study recommends that extension workers should make concerted efforts to raise awareness and distribute knowledge about the advances among goat farmers.','-','Sonika Sharma and R.S. Rathore (2022). Knowledge of Beneficiaries and Non-Beneficiaries about Recommended Goat Farming Practices under Attracting and Retaining Youth in Agriculture (ARYA) Project. Biological Forum â€“ An International Journal, 14(1): 259'),(3640,'112','Impact of Epidemiological Factors on the Incidence of Charcoal Rot of Sesamum incited by Macrophomina phaseolina','Kiran Choudhary, Ashok Kumar Meena, Kewal Chand, Yogita Nain and Shivam Maurya*','44 Impact of Epidemiological Factors on the Incidence of Charcoal Rot of Sesamum incited by Macrophomina phaseolina Kiran Choudhary.pdf','',1,'Charcoal rot of sesame incited by Macrophomina phaseolina is one of the foremost yield-reducing factors in sesame (Sesamum indicum L.). In the present studies which were carried out at the experimental farm of SKRAU, Bikaner during kharif 2017. The study focused on relationship of different meteorological variables with the development of charcoal rot of sesame disease under field conditions. A positive and non-significant correlation was observed between disease and temperature while a significant, negative correlation was noticed between disease development and relative humidity. Assessment of yield losses in sesame due to M. phaseolina was done at the capsule formation stage. The data also revealed that maximum relative humidity was more correlated with the disease intensity as compared to the minimum relative humidity in all three varieties. Sunshine hours exhibited a negative and non-significant correlation with disease progression. Although the total rainfall showed a positive co','Charcoal rot, Macrophomina phaseolina, Sesame, and Weather parameters.','The disease progression was observed relatively faster from 24th August to 5th September in all three cultivars. The mean of three varieties also showed disease intensity ranged from 21.47 to 33.88 percent in three test sesame cultivars. During this period i.e., 24th August to 5th September the minimum to maximum temperature ranges were 29 to 39.8Â°C and 24.5 to 26.5Â°C, respectively, while the maximum and minimum relative humidity prevailed 60.0 to 92.0 and 39 to 81 percent, respectively. Relative humidity maximum (X3) was found significantly positively correlated with the charcoal rot intensity in all three varieties in the crop season. The maximum and minimum temperatures were found negatively correlated with the progression of disease intensity during the season. The Charcoal rot intensity progressively increased during the observation period i.e. 10th August to 5th September in all three varieties in the crop season. The disease progression was faster from 24th August to 5th Septe','-','Kiran Choudhary, Ashok Kumar Meena, Kewal Chand, Yogita Nain and Shivam Maurya (2022). Impact of Epidemiological Factors on the Incidence of Charcoal Rot of Sesamum incited by Macrophomina phaseolina. Biological Forum â€“ An International Journal, 14(1): '),(3641,'112','Phenotypic Screening and Molecular characterization for Leaf Rust Resistance Gene Lr9 in Wheat','Elangbam Premabati Devi*, K.P. Singh, Deepshikha and J.P. Jaiswal','45 Phenotypic Screening and Molecular characterization for Leaf Rust Resistance Gene Lr9 in Wheat Elangbam Premabati Devi.pdf','',1,'Field screening during both the experimental years of 2014-15 and 2015-16 has revealed that four varieties such as HW 2021, HP 1731, WH 896 and UP2565 were found as no infection of leaf rust at all, so they were considered as immune to disease. While five varieties such as WL1562, Chakwal 86, Rawal87, WH 1105, C306 were identified with disease severity ranged from 20 to 60% severity of susceptible response, so these varieties were identified as highly susceptible to leaf rust. The other remaining 15 varieties were recorded as disease severity ranged from TR to maximum of 10% of resistant response, so these varieties were considered as resistant to leaf rust. The result of AUDPC value has revealed that the maximum value of 880.25 was recorded in WH1105 followed by WL1562 with 540.4 values so they were considered as highly susceptible varieties. The maximum rate of infection was recorded in C306 with 0.382 followed by HD2189 and UP2572 with 0.249 values. Confirmation of presence of Lr9 g','Leaf rust, SCAR marker, Lr9, resistant, AUDPC.','From the above findings it can be concluded that four varieties viz. HD2189, UP2572, UP2748 and WH896 were identified as promising varieties showing great resistant at both phenotypic and genotypic level linked with Lr9 gene against leaf rust of wheat. Moreover, some wheat varieties were showing resistant to leaf rust in field conditions but not detected with presence of Lr9 gene which may be due to presence of some other Lr genes. Thus, proper field evaluation of resistant vareities in high disease pressure along with the application of molecular marker could be an important challenging area in identifying resistant sources of varieties for enhancing rust resistance programme to combat wheat rust. ','-','Elangbam Premabati Devi, K.P. Singh, Deepshikha and J.P. Jaiswal (2022). Phenotypic Screening and Molecular characterization for Leaf Rust Resistance Gene Lr9 in Wheat. Biological Forum â€“ An International Journal, 14(1): 269-274.'),(3642,'111','Evaluation of Ecofriendly Management Technique against Root Knot Nematode Meloidogyne incognita in Tuberose','T. Senthilkumar','36 Evaluation of Ecofriendly Management Technique against Root Knot Nematode Meloidogyne incognita in Tuberose T. SENTHIL KUMAR.pdf','',1,'Plant parasitic nematodes are one of the major limiting factors in the production of tuberose. Among the nematodes, root knot nematode Meloidogyne incognita is serious and important nematode, which causes flower yield loss about 40 per cent. Limited chemical nematicides are available for nematode management and farmers are not used these nematicide due to environmental concern. Alternatively ecofriendly bionematicides are gaining much important for nematode management among the farmers. Hence, a field experiment was conducted to study the potential of bionematicide on root knot nematode management using commercially available talc formulation of Paecilomyces lilacinus, Pochonia chlamydosporia, growing of marigold and neem cake along with chemical check Carbofuran 3G and compared with untreated control under root knot nematode sick field. The above said biocontrol agents were applied as seed treatment (bulbs) and soil application as per the treatment schedule. The biometrical observati','Tuberose, root knot nematode, biocontrol agents, Meloidogyne incognita. ','','',''),(3643,'111','Pruning Severity and timeInfluences the Shoot Growth, Fruiting and Quality Attributes of Ber (Zizyphus mauritiana L), cv. Seb under Arid Kachchh Conditions','Rahul Dev*, Traloki Singh, Arvind S. Teterwal, Sushil Kumar and M. Sureshkumar','37 Pruning Severity and timeInfluences the Shoot Growth, Fruiting and Quality Attributes of Ber _Zizyphus mauritiana L_, cv. Seb under Arid Kachchh Conditions Rahul DEV.pdf','',1,'A pruning experiment with seven pruning severity with five pruning times was conducted to standardize the pruning severity and time in ber cv. Seb. Data were recorded on days to bud sprouting (day), days to fruiting (day), fruit set (%), fruit weight (g), fruit length (mm), fruit diameter (mm), and total soluble solids (TSS) during the experiment. Set of data indicates, intensive pruning up to 4 buds resulted in early bud sprouting (21.20 days), fruiting (129.93 days), fruit weight (6.58 g), and fruit size (24.07 Ã— 23.39 mm). As the pruning severity decreased, the time to bud sprouting and fruiting was delayed and fruit size was also reduced but fruit set (%) was increased. The fruit TSS (Â°B) increased with pruning severity up-to-the 6 buds (30.37Â°B), and it decreased significantly with a decrease to the lowest content in trees pruned at 12 buds (27.57 Â°B) and control plants (25.58 Â°B). The maximum fruit set (17.38%) and higher fruit weight (6.33 g) and size (23.72 Ã— 23.75 mm) we','Arid Kachchh, pruning time, pruning severity, Seb, Zizyphus mauritiana.','','',''),(3644,'111','Molecular Characterization and Phenotypic Validation of Rice Genotypes for Nutrient Use Efficiency','M. Girija Rani *, Sirisha A., P.V. Ramana Rao, N. Chamundeswari, B.N.V.S.R Ravikumar and P.V. Satyanarayana','38 Molecular Characterization and Phenotypic Validation of Rice Genotypes for Nutrient Use Efficiency M.Girija Rani.pdf','',1,'Enhancement of rice productivity with low inputs not only reduces cost of cultivation but also improves soil and human health. Nitrogen and phosphorous are important macro nutrients of chemical fertilizers. Breeding of nutrient use efficient genotypes is complex influenced by soil and environmental parameters .Use of molecular markers is one of the best strategies for breeding programmes and selection of high yielding nutrient use efficient genotypes. Present study aimed to screen 350 rice genotypes using Nitrogen use efficiency (NUE) and Phosphorous uptake (Pup1) QTL linked markers. Allelic variation in expression of positive alleles for both Nitrogen and phosphorous use efficiency was observed. Only 13.14% of genotypes (Swarna, MTU 1061, Swarnasub1, Non-abokara, MTU 1229, MTU 1190, MTU 1226) were identified as nutrient use efficient for both Nitrogen and Phosphorous after molecular characterization and phenotypic validation. The future research has to be focused on breeding nutrien','Rice, Molecular characterization, NUE, PUE, phenotypic validation','','',''),(3645,'111','Optimization of Seed Rate through Seed Rate Compensation on Growth Parameters of Soybean','Priyanka M.*, Parashivamurthy, Ramanappa, T.M. and Siddaraju, R.','39 Optimization of Seed Rate through Seed Rate Compensation on Growth Parameters of Soybean Dr. Priyanka. M.pdf','',1,'The field experiment was conducted to optimize seed rate through seed rate compensation as seed rate and cost of soybean is very high and to the know the effect of seed rate compensation on growth parameters in JS335 and JS9560 soybean varieties during 2017-18 at NSP, University of Agricultural Sciences, Bangalore. The experimental material for the study comprised of 2 soybean varieties (JS335 and JS9560) procured from National Seed Project (NSP) and experimental field was laid out in factorial randomized complete block (FRCBD). The results revealed that, among the seed rate compensation levels, Seeds of 70 per cent germination with normal seed rate (62.5 kg/ha;C1) recorded highest field emergence (86.19%), Plant height at 30Days after sowing (DAS), 60DAS and at harvest (25.80cm, 37.67cm and 45.92cm respectively) and the lowest was observed in aged seeds of 50 per cent germination with compensated seed rate (87.5 kg / ha;C5) (69.51%, 17.61cm, 27.17cm and 35.55cm respectively). The num','Seed rate compensation, days to 50 % flowering, days to maturity, plant height, field emergence (%).','','',''),(3646,'111','Performance of Lentil (Lens culinars Medik. subsp. culinaris) varieties/Lines in Uplands of Tripura','U. Giri, A. Saha*, S. Biswas, R. Nath and T.K. Maity','40 Performance of Lentil _Lens culinars Medik. subsp. culinaris_ varietiesLines in Uplands of Tripura A. SAHA.pdf','',1,'Every year, Tripura has to incur lots of expenses in importing lentils from West Bengal, Bihar, UP as the productivity of lentil in Tripura is less due to non-availability of high-yielding varieties adopted in upland agro-climatic scenario. Lentil cultivators are losing interest in lentil production due to poor and uncertain yield achieved by locally available varieties. Keeping this in mind, a field experiment was conducted at Experimental farm of the College of Agriculture, Lembucherra, Tripura (W), India (23o56\'N latitude and 91o10\' E longitude, 160 m.s.l.) during 2019-20. The 11 cultivars along with a local check variety (total 12 varieties) were tested in complete randomized block design (CRBD) and replicated thrice. All the lentil varieties/lines took 41-50 days for flower initiation and 48-57 days for 50% flowering. C23E21 variety had highest germination percentage (86.97%) whereas Plant population at harvest was maximum (2, 57,143 ha-1) for Bari Masoor-5 variety. Plant height ','Lentil, Varieties, Upland, Seed yield, Tripura.','','',''),(3647,'111','Integrated Weed Management in rabi-summer Groundnut','D. Anitha*, K.S.S. Naik, K. Vemana and E. Venkata Ramana','41 Integrated Weed Management in rabi-summer Groundnut D. Anitha.pdf','',1,'Experiment was conducted at Agricultural Research Station, Kadiri to evaluate the different weed management practices in groundnut under irrigated conditions. Field study reveals that total number of weeds at 30 and 60 DAS was significantly lower with weed free check which was on par with PE application of Pendimethalin 30 EC + Imazethapyr 2 EC @ 1.0 kg a.i./ha PE (Ready mix) + Quizalofop â€“ p-ethyl @ 50 g a.i./ha at 15-20 DAS. Among the herbicidal treatments, Highest weed control efficiency was recorded with hand weeding (T8) at 20 and 40 DAS followed by PE application of Pendimethalin 30 EC + Imazethapyr 2 EC (Ready mix) followed by Quizalofop â€“ p-ethyl at 15-20 DAS (T4), pre emergence application of pre mix herbicide of Pendimethalin + Imazethapyr (T2) at 30 and 60 DAS respectively. Pod and haulm yields are also higher with hand weeding (T8) at 20 and 40 DAS followed by PE application of Pendimethalin 30 EC + Imazethapyr 2 EC (Ready mix) + Quizalofop â€“ p-ethyl at 15-20 DAS (T4','Groundnut, Herbicides and Yield.','','',''),(3648,'111','Estimation of Water Requirements in Rice and Groundnut Crops over Telangana','Kanagala Pavani* and Satyendra Nath','42 Estimation of Water Requirements in Rice and Groundnut Crops Over Telangana Kanagala Pavani.pdf','',1,'The present research work was carried out to study the water requirements of rice and groundnut crops grown in Telangana districts for baseline (1981-2018) period. Weather data was collected from CRIDA Hyderabad, for computing reference evapotranspiration (ETo), effective rainfall, crop and irrigation water requirements using CROPWAT 8.0 model software. The analysis showed that ETo was at peak in month of May while it was minimum during the month of December. The simulation studies also indicated that there is a substantial increase in ETo values for future line period 2025 & 2030 due to increase in temperature. The crop water requirements for rice crop cultivated during kharif season was estimated to be 727.4mm. The groundnut crop requires 325.5mm water to attain maturity. The maximum irrigation water requirements for rice crop was 1011mm during kharif. It was also estimated that irrigation water requirement for groundnut was about 42.5mm for baseline period. The projected weather for','Crop water requirement; Irrigation water requirement; Reference evapotranspiration; Effective rainfall, CROPWAT, ArcGis','','',''),(3649,'111','Study on Factors Affecting Milk Procurement and Constraints Faced in Milk Procurement in Udham Singh Nagar District of Uttarakhand','Mandeep Kaur, Shweta Chaudhary and Kiran Rana','43 Study on Factors Affecting Milk Procurement and Constraints Faced in Milk Procurement in Udham Singh Nagar District of Uttarakhand Shweta Chaudhary.pdf','',1,'The study was conducted in Udham Singh Nagar Dugdh Utpadak Sahakari Sangh Limited, Khatima (U.S. Nagar). It is a district level milk co-operative union registered under the brand name â€˜AANCHALâ€™. Descriptive statistical tools, multiple regression analysis and Garrett ranking were used for the study. Positive and statistically significant regression coefficients of average number of members per milk producersâ€™ co-operative societies per month and average price paid to milk producers per month indicated that quantity of milk procurement was positively influenced by these factors. Fluctuation in prices, untimely and improper compensation, high expenses of feed and seasonal variation were the severe constraints faced by the milk producers in the procurement of milk.','Economics, AANCHAL Milk Plant, Descriptive statistical tools, Multiple regression analysis, Regression coefficients, Garrett ranking.','','',''),(3650,'111','Formulation of New Growth Medium and Fermentation Conditions for Paenibacillus mucilaginous, a Potassium Releasing Bacterial Stain (KRB-9)','R. Brindavathy* and Shenbagavalli S.','44 Formulation of New Growth Medium and Fermentation Conditions for Paenibacillus mucilaginous, a Potassium Releasing Bacterial Stain _KRB-9_ R. Brindavathy.pdf','',1,'Soil an important natural wealth comprises of microbes and minerals that construct the nutrient source and sink for biological uptake. Interactions between soil microbes and minerals play a major role in nutrient cycling processes and convert to available forms through solubilization, mineralization and mobilize nutrients from soil components. Biological source for potassium is very minimum compared to nitrogen fixation and phosphorus solubilization. An experiment was conducted to formulate a new medium for an efficient potassium releasing bacterial isolates (KRB). The growth rate, optical density, enumeration was analyzed and compared. Using the best carbon and nitrogen source a new medium was designed for mass production process. Sucrose and dextrose were the best carbon source and yeast extract and peptone were the two best nitrogen sources. For maximizing the population, new medium was formulated and compared with the two existing medium, Alexandrovsâ€™ and Sucrose minimal agar med','Paenibacillus mucilaginous, Potassium release bacterium, carbon and nitrogen source, medium, standardization. ','','',''),(3651,'111','Soil Microbial Population and Soil Enzyme Activity under Organic and Conventional Management Systems in Low Land Rice Ecosystem System of Godavari Delta, Andhra Pradesh','A. Sireesha, V. Bhuvaneswari and P.V. Satyanarayana','45 Soil Microbial Population and Soil Enzyme Activity under Organic and Conventional Management Systems in Low Land Rice Ecosystem System of Godavari Delta, Andhra Pradesh A. Sireesha.pdf','',1,'A field experiment was conducted in wet land condition during rabi season of 2016-17 at Regional Agricultural Research Station, Maruteru to evaluate the production potential of rice (Oryza sativa L.) under organic farming and conventional farming system. The main aim of this study is to compare soil microbial activity and soil enzymatic activity (dehydrogenase, acid phosphatase, alkaline phosphatase, urease) in organic and conventional farming systems. As the soil enzymes are natural mediators and catalysts of many important soil processes, such as: decomposition of organic matter released into soil during plant growth, processes of soil humus formation and decomposition, the release of mineral nutrients and their supply to plants. The package followed for organic farming was insitu incorporation of green manure crop (Diancha), application of Farm Yard Manure @10t/ha as basal and application of Neem cake @500 kg/ha in two splits at tillering and PI stage. Under inorganic farming chemic','Organic farming, conventional farming, soil microbial population and soil enzyme activity.','','',''),(3652,'111','Study of Combining ability and Gene Action in Sunflower (Helianthus annuus L.)','Dake A. D., Ghodke M. K., Thakur N. R.* and Salunke P. M.','46 Study of Combining ability and Gene Action in Sunflower _Helianthus annuus L._ Thakur N. R.pdf','',1,'The present investigation entitled, â€œStudy of Combining ability and Gene action in Sunflower (Helianthus annuus L.)â€ was undertaken to study the combining ability and gene action in parents and hybrids for seed yield and components traits in sunflower in which six female lines were crossed with four male lines so as to obtained 24 F1s.\r\nThe crosses and parents with two checks, were evaluated in a randomized block design with two replications during Kharif 2017 at Experimental farm at Oilseeds research station, Latur. Data were recorded on 10 characters viz., days to 50% flowering, days to maturity, plant height (cm), head diameter (cm), seed filling (%), 100-seed weight (g), volume weight (g100/ml), hull content (%), seed yield per plant (g) and oil content (%). Among the female parents CMS 10A was good general combiner for days to 50 % flowering, days to maturity, plant height (cm), seed filling (%) and 100 seed weight (g). CMS 2A is found to be good general combiner for), seed fi','combing ability, gene action, sunflower.','','',''),(3653,'111','To assess the accomplishment of new wheat varieties (Triticum aestivum L.) under various dates of sowing and agro-ecosystem of northern part of Madhya Pradesh','Rajesh Jadav, S.P.S. Tomar, Kiran Makwana*, Akhilesh Parmar and M.L. Jadav','47 To assess the accomplishment of new wheat varieties _Triticum aestivum L._ under various dates of sowing and agro-ecosystem of northern part of Madhya Pradesh Kiran Makwana.pdf','',1,'The present experiment was conducted at Research Farm, All India Coordinated Wheat Improvement Project, RVSKVV, College of Agriculture, Gwalior (M.P.) during the year 2017- 2018, to evaluate the new varieties of wheat (Triticum aestivum L.) in various dates of sowing under irrigated condition. For this research in total six wheat varieties namely- HS 562, HD 2967, HD 3086, HI 1544, MACS 6222, WR 544 were taken and the same were evaluated under two dates of sowing dates viz 10 November and 15 December 2017. The pooled data professed that crop sown on 10 November showed promising results in terms of grain yield i.e. 5720 kg/ha while the crop sown on 15 December results in reduced grain yield (5292 kg/ha). Out of six wheat varieties, Variety HD 2967 resulted in significantly highest grain and straw yield per hectare.','Triticum aestivum, different sowing dates, grain yield, irrigated conditions','','',''),(3654,'111','Resource Use Efficiency in Onion Crop in Jaipur District of Rajasthan','Rajni Bana, R.C. Asiwal*, Sonu Jain and Prerna Dogra','48 Resource Use Efficiency in Onion Crop in Jaipur District of Rajasthan R.C. Asiwal.pdf','',1,'Present investigation was undertaken to study about resource use efficiency of onion crop in Jaipur district of Rajasthan as it has a considerable position in production of onion. Two tehsils namely Amber and Chomu from Jaipur district were selected on the basis of maximum production of onion. Two villages namely Maheshwas and Nangal Ladi of Amber tehsil and Rampura and Jaitpura of Chomu tehsil were selected randomly for the study. A sample size of 60 farmers was selected for study. Primary data were collected about size of holding, resource inventory, input used in and yield obtained from onion cultivation both physical and monetary terms for the period 2018-19. Resource use efficiency was estimated by using statistical tools like regression coefficient analysis, elasticity coefficient. The results indicated that human labour and value of manure were the major components which significantly contributed in the gross returns of marginal size group farmers. In case of small size group fa','Onion, Resource use efficiency, regression coefficient method, marginal value product, significant.','','',''),(3655,'111','Effect of Nano Nitrogen on Productivity of Sweet Corn (Zea mays Saccharata) and Soil Fertility in Sub-montane Zone of Maharashtra, India','Sarwar I., Gedam V.B.*, Gajbhiye P.N., Bhosale A.S. and Deshmukh D.P.','49 Effect of Nano Nitrogen on Productivity of Sweet Corn _Zea mays Saccharata_ and Soil Fertility in Sub-montane Zone of Maharashtra, India Sarwar.pdf','',1,'Enhancing Nitrogen use efficiency is key task since, it meagrely ranges between 30-35% indicating loss of more than 50 per cent applied N through various means. Use of innovative techniques, such as Nano fertilizers could be the plausible answer to this worry. Nano elements due to its size dependent qualities, high surface-volume ratio and unique optical properties are having competency to modify the existing synthetic framework practiced in modern agriculture by increasing the efficiency of supplied plant nutrients. With this aim a field experiment was conducted on black Vertisols of Agronomy farm, RCSM College of Agriculture, Kolhapur (M.S.), India during kharif, 2020.The experiment was statistically tested using split plot design with 4 replications, the main plot factors consisted of time of application of nano nitrogen (NN) viz T1:15 (DAS), T2: 30 DAS and T3: 45 DAS and sub plot factors consist of levels of NN fertilizers viz N1: 1.00, N2: 1.25 and N3:1.50 L per ha. The foliar app','Sweet corn, Nano nitrogen (NN), grain yield, stover yield, quality, soil properties.','','',''),(3656,'111','Path Coefficient Analysis Studies in Safflower Accessions \r\n(Carthamus tinctorius L.)\r\n','P.S. Rathod*, S.B. Ghuge, M.P. Wankhade','50 Path Coefficient Analysis Studies in Safflower Accessions _Carthamus tinctorius L._ P.S. Rathod.pdf','',1,'A present research trial was carried out to study path coefficient analysis in safflower (Carthamus tinctorius L.). This research trial consists of 62 genotypes (accessions) alongwith 2 checks (PBNS-12, A-1) were evaluated in Randomized Block Design during rabi 2019-20 at All India Co-ordinated Research Project on Safflower V.N.M.K.V., Parbhani. The observations were recorded on 5 competitive fertile plants includes characters like days to 50 per-cent flowering, days to maturity, plant height (cm), number of primary branches/plant, secondary branches/plant, effective capitula/plant, number of seeds/capitulum, hundred seed weight(g), seed yield/plant(g), hull & oil content(%). Path coefficient analysis revealed that the characters like number of primary branches/plant, days to 50 per-cent flowering and number of secondary branches/plant resulted highest positive direct effect on its seed yield/plant at genotypic and phenotypic level which indicating direct selection importance for all t','Correlation Coefficients, Path Coefficient Analysis, Safflower Germplasm, Phenotypic Coefficient of Variation (PCV), Genotypic Coefficient of Variation(GCV)','','',''),(3657,'111','Assessment of Soil Fertility through Geospatial Techniques in Kurnool Division of Andhra Pradesh','S. Balaji Nayak*, D. Balaguravaiah, K.V. Ramana, T. Giridharakrishna, P. Munirathnam and B. Ravindra Reddy','51 Assessment of Soil Fertility through Geospatial Techniques in Kurnool Division of Andhra Pradesh Balaji Nayak.pdf','',1,'Soil analysis of the study area (Kurnool, Gudur, Kallur, C. Belagal and Kodumur mandals) of Kurnool Agricultural Revenue Division, Kurnool Dt of AP state during 2016-17 revealed nature of soils as neutral to strongly alkaline in reaction with low electrical conductivity. Soil OC and available N were low to medium, with respective to available phosphorus the values ranged from low to high and the available potassium from medium to high. The available Ca, Mg, S and Mn were sufficient whereas Zn, Fe and Cu are deficient to sufficient in range. Spatial variability of soil properties were premeditated and the generation of maps was done making use of geo-statistics. Spacial variability was observed in all the nutrients except calcium, magnesium and manganese. The spatial variability was high with phosphorus followed by sulphur, zinc, iron, nitrogen, potassium and copper. ','Soil Fertility Mapping, Geospatial Techniques, Spatial Variability.','','',''),(3658,'111','Irrigation and India Agriculture: Difficulties and Options','P. Dogra*, Omprakash, A. Parashar and R. Asiwal','52 Irrigation and India Agriculture Difficulties and Options P. Dogra.pdf','',1,'The rapidly increasing population of India needs increase in food production and water consumption however land is limited. Agriculture links to food security, development and growth in rural areas, nutrition and health security, however it is the largest water user sector in a developing country like India. The availability of water for irrigation purpose, domestic and industrial uses are decreasing with an alarming rateÂ¬Â¬. However, irrigation is a major factor contributing to poverty alleviation in the country because yield is higher in the irrigated areas of country. Realizing this, the adoption of advance irrigation techniques like drip irrigation, treated waste water utilization, control over ground water exploitation, growing of water efficient crops, rain water harvesting, rehabilitation and modernization of existing canal projects, generating awareness about the water in the country and ultimately maximize yield per unit of water and saving water for our future generation are','Agriculture, Irrigation water, irrigation techniques, water conservation.','','',''),(3659,'111','Evaluation of Colour Fastness Properties of Natural Dyes on Mulberry Silk','Mavilashaw V.P.* and S.V. Krishnamoorthy','53 Evaluation of Colour Fastness Properties of Natural Dyes on Mulberry Silk MAVILASHAW V.P.pdf','',1,'The colour fastness properties of mulberry silk yarn dyed with natural dyes extracted from root, rhizome, bark, flowers, seeds, fruits, of beet root, Beta vulgaris; turmeric, Curcuma longa; arjun tree, Terminalia arjuna; gulmohar, Delonix regia; annatto, Bixa orellana; mulberry, Morus indica respectively, and fungi Penicillium purpurogenum have been studied. Hot water extraction method was used to extract the dyes from the plant parts. Silk bleaching was done by oxidation process. Investigations were carried out at the Department of Sericulture, TNAU, Coimbatore. Natural dye has good scope in the commercial dyeing of mulberry silk in the garments industry. The dyed silk samples have shown good colour fastness properties in washing, perspiration (acid, alkali), light and rubbing (dry and wet). The dyed silk samples were evaluated for their colour fastness to washing, rubbing, light and perspiration at Arthanari Loom Centre (Textile) Pvt. Ltd., Salem using the methods prescribed by the I','Natural dyeing of silk-plants and microbe- staining and colour fastness.','','',''),(3660,'111','Productivity and Economics of Late Sown Wheat (Triticum Aestivum) as Influenced by Seed Rates and Nitrogen Levels','Dinesh Pandey*, A.P. Agrawal, Anjum Ahmad and D.J. Sharma','54 Productivity and Economics of Late Sown Wheat _Triticum Aestivum_ as Influenced by Seed Rates and Nitrogen Levels D. Pandey.pdf','',1,'An experiment was carried out during rabi 2013 and 2014 under All India Co-ordinated Wheat Improvement Project, at research farm BTC, College of Agriculture & Research Station, Bilaspur (CG). Experiment was comprised of different level of seed rate (125, 150,175 &200 Kg/ha) as main plot and Nitrogen levels (80,100,120 &140 Kg/ha) as sub plot were laid out in split plot design replicated thrice with wheat variety HD 2932. Experiment is harvested and seed yield and yield attributing traits were recorded. The highest two year mean grain yield was recorded for150 Kg\\ha seed rate (33.48q\\ha),which was 17.02 percent higher than recommended seed rate 125 Kg/ha and 19.46 percent higher than 175 Kg/ha, lowest seed yield was recorded with seed rate 200 Kg/ha. Similar trend was also found for straw yield. This might be due to higher yield attributing character i.e. no. of tillers/sqm., number of grains/earhead and test weight (g) were recorded under seed rate 150 Kg/ha. Among four different ni','Wheat, seed rate (kg/ha), nitrogen levels (kg/ha), terminal heat stress & late sown.','','',''),(3661,'111','Productivity and Economics of horsegram (Macrotyloma uniflorum) as Influenced by Genotypes and Fertility Levels on Hill Region of Chhattisgarh','P.S. Rathiya* and Neelam Chouksey','55 Productivity and Economics of horsegram _Macrotyloma uniflorum_ as Influenced by Genotypes and Fertility Levels on Hill REGION of Chhattisgarh P.S. Rathiya.pdf','',1,'A field experiment consisting of three genotypes viz. Indira Kulthi-1, HG-4 and HG-5 and three fertility levels viz. Control, 50% RDF + MnSO4 @0.5% foliar spray and 100% RDF + MnSO4 @ 0.5% foliar spray (20: 30: 10 kg ha-1 of N: P: K) was conducted at the Raj Mohni Devi College of Agriculture and Research Station, Ambikapur, Chhattisgarh during kharif, 2019 to find out the productivity and economics of rainfed horsegram. The experiment was laid out in split plot design with nine treatment combinations and three replications. The results indicated that horsegram variety HG-4 performing significantly higheryield and its yield attributing character viz., number of pods plant-1, number of seeds pod-1, 1000-seeds weight (g) have been also over perform as compared to Indira Kulthi-1 and HG-5. The response of foliar spray of 100% RDF + MnSO4 @ 0.5% foliar spray have been showed better as other nutrient levels (50% RDF + MnSO4 @0.5% foliar spray and control) on growth and yield attributing char','Horsegram, Productivity, Genotypes and Fertility levels.','','',''),(3662,'111','Yield Maximization of Newly State Released Wheat (Triticum aestivum L.) Varieties under Irrigated Condition','Madhuri Devi Bhagat *, Anjum Ahmad, Dinesh Pandey, M. Sahu and G. Dhar','56 Yield Maximization of Newly State Released Wheat _Triticum aestivum L._ Varieties under Irrigated Condition Madhuri Devi Bhagat.pdf','',1,'The present investigation entitled â€œYield maximization of newly state released wheat (Triticum aestivum L.) varieties under irrigated conditionsâ€ was carried out during rabi 2018-19 at the research farm, Barrister Thakur Chhedilal College of Agriculture and Research station, Bilaspur, Chhattisgarh. The experiment was comprised of different resource management practices (as main plot) with three newly release wheat varieties (as sub plot) and were laid out in split plot design with three replications. The treatments comprised of five resource management practices; i.e. T1; (RPP), T2; (RPP + 150% RDF + GRâ€™s), T3; (RPP + 75% RDF + ST (consortia), T4; [RPP + 125% RDF + 125 kg seed rate ha-1 + spacing(15cm)] and T5; [RPP (No RDF) + ST + Soil T (consortia) + 1 HW] were taken as main plot and three varieties i.e. Chhattisgarh Genhu-3 (CG1013); (V1), Chhattisgarh Genhu-4 (CG1015); (V2) and Chhattisgarh Amber Wheat (CG1018); (V3), were taken as sub plot.\r\nThe results revealed that the dif','Yield maximization, Resource management, Consortia, Vesta, Tebuconazole, Lihocin.','','',''),(3663,'111','Relative Preference of Mango Hopper Species on Different Mango Varieties in Chhattisgarh Plain','Dushyant Kumar Kaushik* and Vinod Kumar Nirmalkar','57 Relative Preference of Mango Hopper Species on Different Mango Varieties in Chhattisgarh Plain Dushyant Kumar Kaushika.pdf','',1,'The relative preference of mango hopper species on different varieties of mango were recorded at Horticulture Research Farm, BTC, College of Agriculture and Research Station, Indira Gandhi Krishi Vishwavidyalaya, Bilaspur (C.G.). Twelve varieties of mango namely Langra, Sundarja, Amrapali, Mallika, Payari, Totapari, Krishnabhog, Sinduri, Barahmashi, Neeleshan, Nileshwari and Kesar were screened for mango hoppers (Amritodus atkinsoni Lethierry) under study. On the basis of overall mean of two years, the least preferred varieties by mango hoppers were Mallika (10.26/panicle) and Sundarja (10.71/panicle) followed by Totapari (11.68/panicle) and Sinduri (12.46/panicle). Whereas, maximum preferred varieties were Nileshwari (131.57/panicle) followed by Kesar (99.94/panicle), Neeleshan (75.02/panicle) and Amrapali (68.01/panicle). ','Mango hopper, Mallika, Amritodus atkinsoni, Mango, entomopathogens. ','','',''),(3664,'111','Screening of growth and biomass of Tomato (Lycopersicum esculentum L) under organic substrates and physiological assessment ','Srikanth G.A.*, Veenashree, L.S., Rachana, T.S., Varsha, G., Arpitha, H.K., Ishwarya, K., and Radhika, N.','58 Screening of growth and biomass of Tomato _Lycopersicum esculentum L_ under organic substrates and physiological assessment Dr Srikanth GA.pdf','',1,'Chlorophyll pigment composition, stomatal frequency, and relative humidity are all biochemical characteristics to consider the T1VC1 Control, T2VC2 (Soil+ 10% Vermicompost), T3VC3 (Soil+ 20% Vermicompost), T4VC4 (Soil+ 30% Vermicompost), and T5VC5 (Soil+ 40% Vermicompost) were the different treatments utilised to generate varying quantities of soil and vermicompost combinations. For each treatment, the percentage of germination was noted. Seedlings from each treatment were transplanted at random into pots containing the same treatments as the trays. For each treatment, various growth characteristics such as root length, shoot length, mean leaf number, and total dry weight were recorded. The highest germination % was recorded in the T5VC5 treatment, and it gradually declined in succeeding treatments. When compared to control plants, almost all of the T3VC3 treatment plants performed better and increased significantly, so changing climatic condition physiological modification required fo','Vermicompost, Growth, Tomato, Electric Conductivity, Field Pots','','',''),(3665,'111','Assessment of different doses of Zinc on Growth and yield of different Rice (Orysa sativa) cultivars','Rina Sisodiya, H.K. Rai, Megha Dubey, Usha Waskle, Nidhi Verma and Anjum Ahmed','59 Assessment of different doses of Zinc on Growth and yield of different Rice _Orysa sativa_ cultivars Rina Sisodiya.pdf','',1,'A field trial was carried to find out the efficacy of different doses of zinc on growth, yield attributes and nutrient uptake in rice during the years 2017 at the Breeder Seed Production Unit (Soybean) of Jawaharlal Nehru Krishi Vishwa Vidyalaya, Jabalpur, Madhya Pradesh. The experiment consists of three main treatments as different rice varieties and five sub treatments of different concentration of Zn which were replicated three times in a split plot design.. The main treatment consist of V1: Kranti,V2: MTU1010 and V3: PS 5 and sub plot 5 treatments consist of T1: 100% NPK + No Zn (control), T2: 100% NPK + 0.25% ZnSO4 ha- 1 (foliar spray) at 30 and 60 DAT, T3: 100% NPK + 0.50% ZnSO4 ha-1 (foliar spray) at 30 and 60 DAT, T4 :100% NPK + 0.75% ZnSO4 ha-1 (foliar spray) at 30 and 60 DAT, T5 :100% NPK + 25 kg ZnSO4 ha-1 (soil application). All the growth attributing characters such as (plant height, dry matter accumulation in shoot and root and number of tillers hill-1) were studied','Zinc, Soil Organic Carbon, Zinc uptake, Gain yield, Straw yield, Nutrient uptake','','',''),(3666,'111','Bioefficacy of Zanthoxylum acanthopodium and its Combination with Plectranthus ternifolius as a Grain Protectant against Rice Weevil, Sitophilus oryzae','Arati Ningombam*, Romila Akoijam, Aruna Beemrote, I.M Singh, Ch. Tania, S.K Sharma, Th. Seilesh Kumar and Leangzin Gangmei\r\n','60 Bioefficacy of Zanthoxylum acanthopodium and its Combination with Plectranthus ternifolius as a Grain Protectant against Rice Weevil, Sitophilus oryzae ARATI NINGOMBAM.pdf','',1,'The bioefficacy of Z. acanthopodium was studied as a grain protectant against rice weevil, Sitophilus oryzae, alone and in combination with Plectranthus ternifolius. Rice weevil was found to be the most common and dominating insect pest of stored pulses under NE conditions. The population growth-inhibiting ability of the plant powders by way of suppressing the progeny production was evaluated. Fixed combination ratios of 50:50, 60:40, 70:30 and 80:20 of Zanthoxylum and Plectranthus were studied and evaluated. The GI50 of all the plant powders were calculated, and Z. acanthopodium without any combination was found to have the lowest GI50 of 3.03mg/gm. Among the combinations, Zanthoxylum and Plectranthus in 50:50 ratio gave the best population growth suppressing ability with GI50 of 5.47mg/gm, and 80:20 ratio combination was found the least effective with GI50 of 6.88 mg/gm. Singly or in combination, all the plant powders gave good protection against rice we evil with very low GI50. The ','Rice weevil, grain protectant, progeny reduction, Zanthoxylum, Plectranthus, ITK, NE India','','',''),(3667,'111','Gall midge Resistance Gene Identification in Promising Rice Genotypes using Gene Specific Markers','P. N. Harathi*, P. Raja Sekhar, K. V. Hari Prasad, B. V. Bhaskar Reddy, U. Vineetha and B. Ravindra Reddy','61 Gall midge Resistance Gene Identification in Promising Rice Genotypes using Gene Specific Markers P. N. Harathi.pdf','',1,'Rice gall midge, Orseolia oryzae (Wood-Mason) attacks shoots of rice crop which results in forming galls impairing growth and yield. The development of resistant varieties and their cultivation is an important strategy to control rice gall midge. Of the 105 lines tested including the susceptible check against ARGM under field conditions during late kharif, 2015-16 and 2016-17, the entries,RGL-7002, RGL-1, RGL-7003, RGL-7009 andRGL-7010 recorded the damage of less than 10%. These lines were genotyped for the presence of resistant genes using SSR markers. The entry RGL 7003 possessed the alleles for Gm1 and Gm8while RGL 7002 had Gm1and RGL 1 had alleles for Gm 8gene.All three of these entries have the potential to be used as donors in breeding trials.','Asian rice gall midge, Gene specific markers ','','',''),(3668,'113','Designing on Secret Password by using Cryptography and M modulo N Graceful Labeling ','C. Velmurugan* and V. Ramachandran','2 Designing on Secret Password by using Cryptography and M modulo N Graceful Labeling C.pdf','',1,'Cryptography means concealed writing and the essence of a cryptographic application is to ensure that two parties can communicate privately over a channel in which a third party cannot detect what is being communicated. Currently, information security is the paramount challenge in our life on a daily basis. In this paper, we proposed a secret password that helps to protect data and massage in a secure way. We developed a secret password by using cryptography and M modulo N graceful labeling on a complete bipartite graph with a secure key known only by the system manager. Further, our proposed secret password improves the security of the message which traverses over the insecure system. This also involves private keys Security is ensured because only the person with the relevant private key can decode the message. Also we illustrated these mathematically.','Cryptography, Graceful labeling, M modulo N graceful labeling, complete bipartite graph, secret password.','','',''),(3669,'112','Phenological Development and Thermal Indices in Sesame (Sesamum indicum L.) Varieties under different Dates of Sowing','Shri Rakesh*, R.C. Bairwa, N.K. Pareek, Amit Kumawat, Ramesh Kumar and Sundar Anchra','46 Phenological Development and Thermal Indices in Sesame _Sesamum indicum L._ Varieties Under Different Dates of Sowing Shri Rakesh.pdf','',1,'Climate changes are becoming more common in India as a result of global warming. As a result, growth and yield of sesame are affected. Sesame (Sesamum indicum) is a short-day plant that grows and yields best in hot weather. Thermal indices are intimately related to crop growth and development. An endeavor to establish a link between thermal indices and sesame crop growth and development could aid in the development of novel varieties that are compatible with changing weather trends. Field experiment was conducted at the Instructional Farm, College of Agriculture, Swami Keshwanand Rajasthan Agricultural University, Bikaner during Kharif 2017. The experiment was laid out in a split plot design with three replications. The four dates of sowing (10 July, 20 July and 30 July, and 09 August) were allocated in main plots and four sesame varieties (RT-125, RT- 46, RT-127 and RT-346) in sub plots. Results revealed that timely sown crop had significantly higher values of GDD, PTU, PTI, HTU and H','Sesame, sowing dates, varieties, GDD, PTU, PTI, HTU, and HUE.','The results of this study show that short-term fluctuations in ambient temperature are reflected in the phenothermal index during each phase of growth. Therefore, the index looks effective during the duration of the phenological occurrence to compare the crop reaction against the ambient temperature between the phenological phases and to reflect the effect of shifting atmospheric temperature. The differences in phenothermal indices for various stages of growth reveal the potential of the accumulated temperature could be utilized for studying biomass accumulation pattern at different phenological stages which ultimately influences the yield potential of crop.','-','Shri Rakesh, R.C. Bairwa, N.K. Pareek, Amit Kumawat, Ramesh Kumar and Sundar Anchra (2022). Phenological Development and Thermal Indices in Sesame (Sesamum indicum L.) Varieties Under Different Dates of Sowing. Biological Forum â€“ An International Journa'),(3670,'112','Evaluation of the Antifungal Efficacy of Plant Extracts, Essential Oils and Cow Urine on Curvularia lunata, the causal Organism of Maize Leaf Spot','Divya Bhatt, P.K. Gupta and Ruchi Tripathi*','47 Evaluation of the Antifungal Efficacy of Plant Extracts, Essential Oils and Cow Urine on Curvularia lunata, the causal Organism of Maize Leaf Spot Ruchi Tripathi.pdf','',1,'Studies were carried out to assess the efficacy of botanicals, essential oils and cow urine at different concentrations against Curvularia lunata, causal pathogen of maize leaf spot. Maize being the third most important crop in India after rice and wheat, is cultivated throughout the year in different parts of the country for diverse purposes thereby making it a crop of economic significance. The crop is being affected by an array of pathogens majorly being managed by the chemicals. Adding on to the burden of the environment, the chemicals used also act as pollutant and can also be subsided by the pathogen by developing resistant races. Botanicals on the other hand provide an ecofriendly method of the plant disease management. Amongst the botanicals, Zingiber officinale was found most successful at 20% for inhibiting the growth (71.85%) of the fungus which was at par with Zingiber officinale at 15% (66.67%) followed by Curcuma longa at 20% (60.01 %). Among the essential oils, highest i','Botanicals; Curvularia lunata; essential oils; leaf spot; maize; cow urine; screening; in-vitro.','The findings of the study revealed that evaluation of essential oils, botanicals and cow urine in vitro conditions, against the test pathogen was done for better understanding of the host pathogen relationship. The salient findings of the investigations were that amongst \r\nthe different essential oils screened against the growth of C. lunata 28Â±1Â°C it was found that E. globulus oil gave better results at all the concentrations evaluated as compared to other essential oils as highest inhibition (87.41%) was found in E. globulus oil at 500 ppm which was at par with same oil at 250 ppm. Whereas in case of different botanicals evaluated at different concentrations viz; 5, 10, 15 and 20%, it was found that Z. officinale was most effective at 20% for inhibiting the growth (71.85%) of the fungus which was at par with Z. officinale at 15% (66.67%) followed by C. longa at 20% (60.01 %). Similarly, cow urine was also evaluated at different concentrations viz; 1, 5, 10, 20, 30, 40 and 50 per c','-','Divya Bhatt, P. K. Gupta and Ruchi Tripathi (2022). Evaluation of the Antifungal Efficacy of Plant Extracts, Essential Oils and Cow Urine on Curvularia lunata, the causal Organism of Maize Leaf Spot. Biological Forum â€“ An International Journal, 14(1): 2'),(3671,'112','Evaluation of Sugarcane Clones for Quality Cane Juice used for Beverage','Rao P.S.*, Mukunda Rao Ch, Sreedevi P., Bharathalakshmi M. and Jamuna P.','48 Evaluation of Sugarcane Clones for Quality Cane Juice used for Beverage Mukunda Rao Ch.pdf','',1,'The Consumer purchasing sugarcane juice as beverage for drinking in local markets prefer light green coloured juice rather than dark green or brown coloured juice. In general Sacharum officinarum clones are known for the low fibre content with high juice quality which is being highly used for chewing purpose. The juice vendors also prefer sugarcane clones with higher juice quantity with less baggase which results in more juice extraction per cent. The light green coloured juice producing canes were identified in the study during 2020-21 for consumer preference due to its attraction. The sugarcane juice vendors always prefer light coloured juice of consumer preference. Hence, there is a dire need of identifying Sugarcane clones with light coloured juice along with rich in sucrose (sweetness) content. Keeping this as an objective, this study was conducted to identify sugarcane clones with light coloured juice and rich in sucrose. Among 15 sugarcane clones tested, sugarcane clones 2015A 2','Light colored juice, sucrose (%), reducing sugars (%), dextran (%), fibre and baggase. ','Sugarcane juice colour was primarily influenced by juice quality regarding its physico- chemical properties, enzymatic activity and browning reaction rates. Juice colour may also influenced by viable microorganism counts for fresh sucrose juice. Browning of juice may be due to enzymatic reaction and microorganism counts which causes consumer rejection. The light colour juice with colour intensity of 1.8 (sugarcane clone 2005A 222) is a greater potential for consumer acceptance. This type of results was also published in sugarcane by Laurade et al. (2018). ','-','Rao P.S., Mukunda Rao Ch, Sreedevi P., Bharathalakshmi M. and Jamuna P. (2022). Evaluation of Sugarcane Clones for Quality Cane Juice used for Beverage. Biological Forum â€“ An International Journal, 14(1): 290-293.'),(3672,'112','Evaluation of Bio-rational Insecticides against Spodoptera frugiperda (J.E. Smith (Lepidoptera: Noctuidae) in Maize','Rajasekhar Naram*, Durga Prasad N.V.V.S., Chiranjeevi Ch and Srinivasa Rao V.','49 Evaluation of Bio-rational Insecticides against Spodoptera frugiperda _J.E. Smith_ Rajasekhar Naram.pdf','',1,'The fall armyworm, Spodoptera frugiperda is the potential insect pest of maize, causes a severe damage on the vegetative and reproductive stages of that plant. Insecticides are the common practices to manage the broad categories of the pest in a maize field. Further, these practices have been linked to farmers health, biodiversity loss and declining of predatory arthropods. However, pest management by adopting bio-rational insecticides for pest management is one potential option to reduce the pesticide in maize fields. Present study on evaluation of bio-rational insecticides against S. frugiperda in maize experiment was carried out in Regional agricultural research station, Lam, Guntur, during kharif, 2019-20 and 2020-21. Among different insecticides used lowest per cent of leaf damage was observed in spinosad 45% SC 0.32 ml/L treated plot by 21.50 per cent and which is statistically on par with emamectin benzoate 5% SG 0.5 g/L (23.39%) and novaluron 10% EC 1 ml/L (28.79%). Remaining t','S. frugiperda, spinosad 45% SC, emamectin benzoate 5%, novaluron 10% EC, azadiractin 1500 ppm, NSKE 5%, B. thuringiensis and N. rileyi.','It can be deduced from the present investigation, that application of spinosad 45% SC, emamectin benzoate 5% SG and novaluron 10% EC were found more effective in managing the population and damage in maize which also reflected on yield.','-','Rajasekhar Naram, Durga Prasad N.V.V.S., Chiranjeevi Ch and Srinivasa Rao V. (2022). Evaluation of Bio-rational Insecticides Against Spodoptera frugiperda (J.E. Smith) (Lepidoptera: Noctuidae) in Maize. Biological Forum â€“ An International Journal, 14(1)'),(3673,'112','Yield and Quality of Bt Cotton Hybrid NHH 44 (BG II) as Influenced by Moisture Conservation Practices and Fertilizer Levels under Rainfed condition','Pandagale A.D.*, Asewar B.V., Baig K.S., Awasarmal V.B. and Rathod S.S.','50 Yield and Quality of Bt Cotton Hybrid NHH 44 _BG II_ as Influenced by Moisture Conservation Practices and Fertilizer Levels under Rainfed Condition Pandagale A.D.pdf','',1,'Crop yield and quality may differ with nutrient management and moisture conservation. Popular public sector intra hirsutum cotton hybrid NHH 44 converted in transgenic version is made available to farmers. Hence, it was necessary to optimize the fertilizer requirement for its higher seed cotton yield and better fiber properties. Hence, a field trial was conducted at Cotton Research Station, Nanded (Maharashtra, India) during kharif 2019-20 and 2020-21 seasons to study the effect of moisture conservation techniques and fertilizer levels on yield and quality of Bt cotton hybrid NHH 44 (BG II) under rainfed condition. The experiment was conducted on vertisol in split plot design with three replications. Moisture conservation practices included in main plot were control i.e. M1 - flat bed; M2 - opening furrow at 60 DAS; M3 - application of superabsorbent @ 12.5 kg ha-1 and M4 - broad bed and furrow. The sub plot treatments were consisted with four fertilizer (NPK) levels viz., F1 - 80:40:4','Seed cotton yield, fiber quality, bolls m-2, lint yield, oil yield.','Sowing of Bt cotton hybrid on broad bed and furrow was found to increase seed cotton yield, lint yield and oil yield over control and application of superabsorbent. The fertilizer level of 120:60:60 NPK kg ha-1 was found optimum for Bt cotton hybrid under rainfed condition.','-','Pandagale A.D., Asewar B.V., Baig K.S., Awasarmal V.B. and Rathod S.S. (2022). Yield and Quality of Bt Cotton Hybrid NHH 44 (BG II) as Influenced by Moisture Conservation Practices and Fertilizer Levels under Rainfed Condition. Biological Forum â€“ An Int'),(3674,'112','Cataloguing for Diverse Advance Breeding Lines of Desi Chickpea \r\n(Cicer arietinum L.) for Phenological and Yield Attributing Traits\r\n','Manoranjan Biswal* and Anita Babbar','51 Cataloguing for Diverse Advance Breeding Lines of Desi Chickpea _Cicer arietinum L._ for Phenological and Yield Attributing Traits Manoranjan Biswal.pdf','',1,'Generally plant breeder, select the parents on the basis of phenotypic divergence, however, for effectual breeding programme; the proficiency in genetic divergence among parents with reference to the phenological and quantitative traits which are to be improved is indispensable. The present experiment was carried out at breeding farm of JNKVV, Jabalpur, Madhya Pradesh during Rabi cropping seasons of timely sown during both 2019-20 and 2020-21 Genetic divergence by using Mahalanobis DÂ² statistics was studied in 30 Desi chickpea lines including 3 checks for yield and yield contributing traits Under study, the genotypes fall into ten clusters based on DÂ² analysis. The cluster I and V were largest with the large number of genotypes i.e. 16 and 6 respectively, whereas, rest of clusters had one genotype each. Maximum intra cluster distance was observed in cluster V (D2 = 7.29) followed by cluster I (D2 = 6.43). The maximum inter-cluster distance was observed in between cluster IV and IX (D','Desi chickpea, Mahalanobis DÂ² statistics, Genetic divergence.','Mahalanobis (1928) DÂ² statistical analysis were used for obtaining genetic divergence in the present experiment among 30 desi chickpea genotypes and genotypes were grouped into different clusters according to Torcherâ€™s method as described by Rao (1952). In the present study, the genotypes fall into ten clusters based on DÂ² analysis. The cluster I and V were largest with the highest number of genotypes i.e. 16 and 6 respectively, whereas, rest of clusters had one genotype each. Maximum intra cluster distance was observed in cluster V (D2 = 7.29) followed by cluster I (D2 = 6.43). The maximum inter-cluster distance was observed in between cluster IV and IX (D2 = 13.27) followed by cluster II and cluster IX (D2 = 12.36), \r\nwhereas, cluster V and VIII with minimum distance (D2 = 9.00). Genotypes having maximum inter-cluster distance should be given priorities for crossing programme for achieving desirable transgressive segregates. Hence, genetic distance had a key role for selection o','-','Manoranjan Biswal and Anita Babbar (2022). Cataloguing for Diverse Advance Breeding Lines of Desi Chickpea (Cicer arietinum L.) for Phenological and Yield Attributing Traits. Biological Forum â€“ An International Journal, 14(1): 303-307.'),(3675,'112','Analysis of Combining Ability for Yield and Yield Components in Paddy using Line Ã— Tester design under South Eastern Rajasthan','Ravi Kishan Soni* and N.R. Koli','52 Analysis of Combining Ability for Yield and Yield Components in Paddy using Line Ã— Tester design under South Eastern Rajasthan Ravi Kishan Soni.pdf','',1,'The line Ã— tester is the most widely used mating design for hybrid development. Line Ã— tester analysis which involves â€˜lâ€™ lines and â€˜tâ€™ testers is an extension of the analysis of two factor factorial experiment introduced by Fisher and Yates. Line Ã— tester experiment was conducted to evaluate the performance of 21 hybrids along with 7 lines and 3 testers in rice. The results of the analysis of variance revealed that all genotypes were quite significant for all parameters, indicating that the treatments utilised in this study differed significantly. The results revealed that all of the traits were extremely significant for parents, cross, and parent vs. cross, with the exception of the number of panicles per plant for parent vs. cross. Overall, testers played a bigger role in the expression of most yield components than lines and line-tester interaction. Combining ability analysis is one of the most useful strategies for determining appropriate parents and cross combinations ','Combining ability, gene action, line Ã— tester, superior hybrid. ','Distinct parents were found as good general combiners for different traits, according to the findings. The findings revealed a strong relationship between the mean performance of the parents and their GCA impacts. On the basis of mean performance and combining ability impacts, the lines P-1121, P-1592, and P-1612, as well as the tester P-2511, were chosen as the top combiners for yield and quality attributes. Similarly, the crosses viz., P-1592 Ã— P-2511, P-1121 Ã— P-2511, P-1121 Ã— Mahi Sugandha, Pratap-1 Ã— P-2511, P-1612 Ã— P-2511 and Basmati-370 Ã— P-2511 were found the most promising crosses for yield attributing and quality traits. Good Ã— good, good Ã— poor, poor Ã— good and poor Ã— poor paternal combinations would have produced the crosses with the best specific combination for grain yield per plant. The identified hybrid combinations could be used for exploitation of heterosis in further hybrid development program. The magnitude of gene action and combining ability effects of ','-','Ravi Kishan Soni and N.R. Koli (2022). Analysis of Combining Ability for Yield and Yield Components in Paddy using Line Ã— Tester design under South Eastern Rajasthan. Biological Forum â€“ An International Journal, 14(1): 308-312.'),(3676,'112','Studies on Morphological Characteristics of Arbuscular Mycorrhiza Associated with Forest spp.','Dipake Shital*, Ekta D. Bagde and Tini Pillai','53 Studies on Morphological Characteristics of Arbuscular Mycorrhiza Associated with Forest spp. Dipake Shital.pdf','',1,'Five forest species viz. Bamboo, Teak, Eucalyptus, Acacia and Neem were investigated for arbuscular mycorrhizal association and its morphological characteristics isolated AM spore from three different locations viz. Nagpur, Ramtek and Umred region. AM spore isolated by using wet-sieving and decanting method. Only one type of AM spore i.e. Glomus was associated with all the forest species of three different locations of Nagpur. The shape of Glomus sp. was Globose to sub-globose elongated, irregular sometime and colour of Glomus sp. was light yellow to bright orange and brown black to dark black at maturity observed. Bamboo showed maximum number of spores in the rhizosphere at three different locations viz. Nagpur, Ramtek and Umred i.e., 18, 20, 23 per 100g soil respectively and maximum per cent root colonization and Neem showed minimum number of spores in the rhizosphere i.e., 8, 5, 7 per 100g soil of Nagpur, Ramtek and Umred, respectively and minimum per cent root colonization. Arbuscu','Forest sp., Arbuscular mycorrhiza, Glomus, Rhizosphere, Physico-chemical properties of soil.','Mycorrhiza play crucial role in native ecosystems such as forest where fertigation of extensive land area with large quantities of phosphorous is not practical (Habte, 2000). Mycorrhiza provide wide range of services viz. nutrient uptake, leaching, contribution to soil structure and mycorrhizal fungal networks acting as hyphal highways for bacterial dispersion (Marcel et al., 2009) also, mycorrhiza able to retard pathogen development in root system due to high chitinolytic activities (Dehne,1982). Mycorrhiza play crucial role in natural forest ecosystem and also in agriculture system. The status of mycorrhizal colonization in forest species of Nagpur region had not been studied so far and hence there is urgent need to know the different mycorrhizal species associated with forest species of Nagpur region and their role for disease management in agriculture ecosystem. ','-','Dipake Shital, Ekta D. Bagde and Tini Pillai (2022). Studies on Morphological Characteristics of Arbuscular Mycorrhiza Associated with Forest spp. Biological Forum â€“ An International Journal, 14(1): 313-316.');
INSERT INTO `pdf_upload` VALUES (3677,'112','Efficacy of Fungal and Bacterial Bioagents against Macrophomina phaseolina under in vitro conditions','A. Srinivas, G. Uma Devi, B. Vidyasagar, P. Swarna Sree, M. Balram and B. Mallaiah','54 Efficacy of Fungal and Bacterial Bioagents against Macrophomina phaseolina under in vitro conditions A. Srinivas.pdf','',1,'Charcoal rot disease of maize caused by MacrophÂ¬omina phaseolina (Tassi) Goid reported to be majorly responsible for increased yield losses in the regions of arid and semi arid. It is difficult to manage charcoal rot as it is soil-borne in nature. Native fungal (Trichoderma harzianum) and bacterial (Bacillus spp., Pseudomonas spp. and Streptomyces spp.) bioagents were isolated from rhizosphere soil samples, collected from maize fields and they were tested for their efficacy to inhibit the mycelial growth of Macrophomina phaseolina in vitro. The Trichoderma harzianum isolate, MRTh-4 was found to be the most effective with 70.00% mycelial growth inhibition, where bacterial antagonists could able to inhibit in the range of 2.59% - 16.67% only. In conclusion, bacterial antagonists were inferior compared to Trichoderma harzianum in inhibiting the growth of the test pathogen and T. harzianum can become an important component in integrated disease management to achieve proper charcoal rot di','Charcoal rot of maize, MacrophÂ¬omina phaseolina, Trichoderma harzianum, Bacterial bioagents, Dual culture.','Trichoderma harzianum isolate, MRTh-4 was found to be the most effective with 70.00% mycelial growth inhibition. Bacterial antagonists were inferior compared to T. harzianum in inhibiting the growth of the test pathogen. It concludes that, T. harzianum can become an important component in integrated disease management to achieve proper charcoal rot disease management in the field.','-','A. Srinivas, G. Uma Devi, B. Vidyasagar, P. Swarna Sree, M. Balram and B. Mallaiah (2022). Efficacy of Fungal and Bacterial Bioagents Against Macrophomina phaseolina under in vitro Conditions. Biological Forum â€“ An International Journal, 14(1): 317-322.'),(3678,'112','Effect of Cu+2 Chitosan Nanoparticles on Chilli (Capsicum annum L.) Seedling Development','Manju Kumari Choudhary* and Savita Budania','55 Effect of Cu2 Chitosan Nanoparticles on Chilli _Capsicum annum L._ Seedling Development Manju Kumari Choudhary.pdf','',1,'Synthesized Cuâ€“chitosan nanoparticles were assessed for seedling development in chilli (Capsicum annum L.). Ionic gelation method was used for synthesis of Cu- chitosan nanoparticles. These synthesized nanoparticles were used for seed treatment for 6hrs. Different concentrations were used for the present investigation and various growth attributes like fresh weight (in gms), shoot length (in cm), root length (in cm) and no. of leaves were recorded. Cu-chitosan nanoparticles at 50ppm has significant effect on almost all the parameters whereas concentration 800 ppm shown inhibitory effect. This is because Cu-chitosan Nanoparticles may commendably supply Cu as a micronutrient for the plants, while the abandoned application of Cu ions from the commercial fungicide constrains the vigorous growth of plants. In agricultural field, utilization of chitosan based nanomaterials especially for growth, development and protection is rare as compared to bulk chitosan. So, Chitosan based nanoparticl','Cu-chitosan Nanoparticles, Growth, Ionic gelation method, Chilli.','The findings of the present study reveal that Cu-chitosan nanoparticles have potential to enhance the growth of chilli seedlings. Among the various concentrations (50 ppm) of Cu chitosan nanoparticles considered as the optimum level for the growth of Chilli (Capsicum annum L.). However higher concentration (800 ppm) of Cu chitosan nanoparticles affect the plant growth. The outcome of the present study will be useful in finding the potential of nanoparticles in crop improvement and other agricultural applications.','-','Manju Kumari Choudhary and Savita Budania (2022). Effect of Cu+2 Chitosan Nanoparticles on Chilli (Capsicum annum L.) Seedling Development. Biological Forum â€“ An International Journal, 14(1): 323-327.'),(3679,'112','Influenced of Yield and Economic by effect of Nutrients and Plant Growth Regulators on Onion (Allium cepa L.)','Priynka Kumari Jat*, S.K. Khandelwal and Murari Lal Chopra','56 Influenced of Yield and Economic by effect of Nutrients and Plant Growth Regulators on Onion _Allium cepa L._ Priynka Kumari Jat.pdf','',1,'A field investigation entitled â€œEffect of Nutrients and Plant Growth Regulators on Growth, Yield, Quality and Storage Life of Onion (Allium cepa L.)â€ was carried out at Research Farm, RARI, Durgapura (Jaipur, Rajasthan) during Rabi season 2016-17 and 2017-18. Results revealed that application of N4 and G4 notably higher yield parameters of onion over other treatments. The result also indicated the field curing considerably minimized the neck thickness and increased TSS over poly tunnel curing and curing under 60 % shade net curing. The economics of maximum net returns Rs 475439.31 /ha and Rs 466819.98 /ha were recorded with combined application of NPKSB, mepiquat chloride along with field curing (N4G4C1) and NPKSB, mepiquat chloride along with 60% shade net curing (N4G4C2) during 2016-17 and 2017-18 respectively. Maximum B: C ratio 6.11 and 6.01 was recorded with combined application of N4G4C2 treatment during 2016-17 and 2017-18 respectively. ','B: C ratio, nutrients onion, yield, plant growth regulators, and net returns.','Based on the results, it is concluded that application of N4G4 (N100: P50: K150: S45: B1 + mepiquat chloride @ 750 ppm) was considered as the best treatment in respect to obtain significantly higher total bulb yield (465.56 q/ha) as well as marketable bulb yield (435 q/ha) in onion crop. This treatment also gave significantly higher net returns (` 461114.98/ha) and B: C ratio (5.96:1). ','-','Priynka Kumari Jat, S.K. Khandelwal and Murari Lal Chopra (2022). Influenced of Yield and Economic by Effect of Nutrients and Plant Growth Regulators on Onion (Allium cepa L.). Biological Forum â€“ An International Journal, 14(1): 328-332.'),(3680,'112','Biosynthesis of Zinc Oxide Nanoparticle using the cyanobacterium Chlorogloeopsis fritschii BK (MN968818) Isolated from the Mangrove Environment of Kendrapara, Odisha and Evaluation of its Antibacterial Property','Radhakanta Nag, Himansu Sekhar Sahoo and Saubhagya Manjari Samantaray*','57 Biosynthesis of Zinc Oxide Nanoparticle using the cyanobacterium Chlorogloeopsis fritschii BK _MN968818 Radhakanta Nag.pdf','',1,'Multidrug resistance of bacteria towards antibiotics is a critical issue that must be addressed urgently and efficiently. In this context, nanoparticles can be opted as a suitable alternative for treating bacterial diseases. Recently, biosynthesized metal nanoparticles have been recommended as viable alternatives as their methods of preparations are precise and environmental-friendly for a cost-effective scale-up. For the biosynthesis of nanoparticles, a greater diversity of microbiota has been used, among which cyanobacteria are considered a valuable source due to their bioactive compound contents. In this regard, a cyanobacterium is identified as Chlorogloeopsis fritschii BK (MN968818) by 16S rRNA sequencing, isolated from the Mahanadi mangrove environment of Kendrapara, Odisha. It has been used for ZnO NPs synthesis in vitro. Moreover, the biosynthesized ZnO NPs are characterized by UV-Vis spectroscopy, X-ray diffraction (XRD), zeta potential measurement, FTIR, SEM-EDS. The antiba','Biosynthesis, mangrove environment, cyanobacterium, indigenous, ZnO NP, antibacterial assay.','The utilization of cyanobacteria has paved the way for green nanotechnology, lowering the generation of unwanted and impure chemicals. The present study lays the groundwork for future research into our understanding of how the aqueous extract of Chlorogloeopsis fristchii BK (MN968818) collected from the Mahanadi Delta mangrove region can be used as a reducing and capping agent for the biosynthesis of ZnO NPs. The ZnO NPs characterized by UVâ€“Vis spectroscopy, FTIR, XRD, SEM-EDS, and DLS analysis. The biosynthesized ZnO NPs demonstrated significant antibacterial activities against B. cereus (MCC 1086) and E. coli (MCC3671) in comparison to the standard antibiotic ampicillin with sulbactam. The green synthesis and high efficacy of the cyanobacterium Chlorogloeopsis fristchii BK (MN968818) for ZnO NPs synthesis may be helpful for its applications as an antibacterial agent to treat the infection caused by B. cereus (MCC 1086) and E. coli (MCC 3671). The benefits of using cyanobacterium ','-','Radhakanta Nag, Himansu Sekhar Sahoo and Saubhagya Manjari Samantaray (2022). Biosynthesis of Zinc Oxide Nanoparticle using the cyanobacterium Chlorogloeopsis fritschii BK (MN968818) Isolated from the Mangrove Environment of Kendrapara, Odisha and Evalu'),(3681,'112','Nutrient use Efficiency of Wheat (Triticum aestivum L.) under the Influence of Rhizospheric Management at Pantnagar, India','Arvind Kumar*, V.P. Singh, Rajeew Kumar, Anil Nath, Rakesh Kumar and Shiv Singh Meena','58 Nutrient Use Efficiency of Wheat _Triticum aestivum L._ under the Influence of Rhizospheric Management at Pantnagar, India Arvind Kumar.pdf','',1,'Population relief demanded a rethink of agricultural production practises due to the rising need for food and nutritional security. Increasing cost of fertilizers and declining soil health resulted the lower nutrient use efficiency and crop output. As a result, to reduce the uses of chemical fertilizer, and boosting wheat production and nutrient use efficiency, this research study was conducted at NEB Crop Research Centre, G.B.P.U.A. &T, Pantnagar, India. The experiment used a FRBD design with 6 nutrient management options (100 percent RDF (150:60:40 NPK kg/ha), 75 percent RDF, 75 percent RDF + Vermicompost, 75 percent RDF + Vermicompost + PSB, 75 percent RDF + Poultry manure, and 75 percent RDF + Poultry manure + PSB), 75 percent RDF + Poultry manure, and 75 percent RDF + Poultry manure + PSB. According to research findings, the treatment combination of 75 percent RDF + Vermicompost/ Poultry manure + PSB is equally effective. It might be due to enhanced nutrient uptake and wheat produ','Wheat, Nutrient Management, Fertilizer Placement, Nutrient Use Efficiency.','Based on the findings, it can be concluded that rhizospheric management using fertiliser placement methods and nutrient management was effective in reducing fertiliser application. Deep placement and 75 percent RDF (112.5:60:40 NPK Kg/ha) + Vermicompost/ poultry manure (2q/ha) + PSB (10 kg/ha) proved effective for improving wheat nutrient use efficiency under rhizospheric management. It could be because of improved nutrient availability and a more favourable soil environment created by the combination of inorganic fertilisers and organic manures. The reduction of chemical fertilizers help us to motivates toward uplifting farmers income, improved nutritional food security and soil fertility due to reduction of cost of production and use of organic manures.','-','Arvind Kumar, V.P.Singh, Rajeew Kumar, Anil Nath, Rakesh Kumar and Shiv Singh Meena (2022). Nutrient Use Efficiency of Wheat (Triticum aestivum L.) under the Influence of Rhizospheric Management at Pantnagar, India. Biological Forum â€“ An International '),(3682,'112','Drying Characteristics and Color Analysis of Betel Leaves (Piper betle L.)','Ramya Murugesan* and R. Marx Nirmal','59 Drying Characteristics and Color Analysis of Betel Leaves _Piper betle L._ Ramya Murugesan.pdf','',1,'Piper betle are deep green, heart-shaped leaves, commonly known as paan. Betel leaves are perishable in nature, and every year, the post-harvest losses are around 35 to 70%. To minimise spoilage, drying is the most commonly used preservation technique. The present study compares the effects of solar and cabinet drying on the physico-chemical properties of the pachaikodi and vellaikodi varieties belonging to Tamilnadu. The betel leaves are dried at 50Â°C in a cabinet tray dryer and also dried in solar tunnel drying. The dried leaves were grinded and packed in airtight LDPE pouches and stored at 4Â°C. The proximate analyses and Quality attributes like color and chlorophyll content were measured. In terms of proximate analysis and quality attributes, maximum nutrients were preserved in tray-dried betel leaves. The moisture content, carbohydrates, protein, fat, fiber and total ash of tray-dried pachaikodi variety are 3.49aÂ±0.13, 46.58dÂ±0.06, 16.10aÂ±0.01, 13.25dÂ±0.03, 8.9cÂ±0.02 and 10a','Drying of betel leaves, Pachaikodi, Vellaikodi, Drying kinetics, Colour measurement, cabinet tray dryer, solar tunnel dryer.','Drying is the most popular preservation technique that produces a shelf-stable product for longer storage. Drying also minimises post-harvest \r\nlosses and reduces the spoilage of perishable products. Cabinet tray drying and solar tunnel drying are the most popular methods of drying. The retention of nutrients like carbohydrates, protein, fat, fiber, ash \r\nand quality attributes like colour and flavour was good in cabinet tray drying as compared to solar tunnel drying. Solar drying also results in the degradation of cholorophyll content. It can be concluded that cabinet tray drying was a better method of dehydration when compared to solar tunnel drying.\r\n','-','Ramya Murugesan and R. Marx Nirmal (2022). Drying Characteristics and Color Analysis of Betel Leaves (Piper Betle L.). Biological Forum â€“ An International Journal, 14(1): 350-355.'),(3683,'112','Study on the Evaluation of Toxicity of Nerium indicum (M.) Against Cabbage Butterfly, Pieris brassicae (L.) (Lepidoptera: Pieridae)','Summira Rafiq*, R.S. Bandral, Suheel Ahmad Ganai, Rehana Akbar, Shafiya Rashid and Roohi Jan','60 Study on the Evaluation of Toxicity of Nerium indicum _M._ Against Cabbage Butterfly, Pieris brassicae _L._ _Lepidoptera Pieridae_ Summira Rafiq.pdf','',1,'Plant extracts contain many active compounds, which are tremendously fruitful for plant defence against several insect pests. This study is aimed to evaluate the leaf and bark extracts of Nerium indicum plant against cabbage butterfly, Pieris brassicae. The toxicity activity of leaf and bark extracts of N. indicum M. against second instar larvae of cabbage butterfly was carried out using methanol, hexane and distilled water as solvents by no choice method. Different concentrations of leaf and bark (100, 75, 50, 25 and 10%) were used in this study. The results revealed that among various solvents, methanol found to be significantly superior in extracting the toxic constituents than the hexane and distilled water. The highest concentration (100%) of methanol leaf extract used in this study, showed mortality of 40.0, 46.7 and 53.3 per cent after 24, 48 and 72 hours of exposure, respectively. whereas, at same concentration and time period, hexane and distilled water leaf extract showed 33','Nerium indicum, leaf and bark extracts, cabbage butterfly, Per cent mortality.','The results revealed that the per cent mortality in N. indicum leaf and bark extracts showed significant effect against second instar larvae of cabbage butterfly which were increased with the increase in the concentrations of extracts and time period. The results indicate that mortality values significantly increased depending on the increasing leaf and bark extract concentrations and exposure time. Among leaf extracts, methanol leaf extract at 100% concentration was the best treatment which recorded highest per cent mortality of 40.00, 46.67 and 53.33 after 24, 48 and 72 hours of treatment. However among bark extracts, again methanol bark extract proved as most effective which resulted in mortality of 31.67, 35.00 and 36.67% at respective concentrations. Maximum cumulative mortality of 53.33 and 36.67% after 72 hours of exposure was recorded at the highest concentration (100%) for methanol leaf and bark extracts of N. indicum. Whereas, minimum cumulative mortality of 28.33 and 25.00%','-','Summira Rafiq, R.S. Bandral, Suheel Ahmad Ganai, Rehana Akbar, Shafiya Rashid and Roohi Jan (2022). Study on the Evaluation of Toxicity of Nerium indicum (M.) Against Cabbage Butterfly, Pieris brassicae (L.) (Lepidoptera: Pieridae). Biological Forum â€“ '),(3684,'112','Assessment of Cluster Front-line Demonstration on the Yield and Gap Analysis of Mustard (Brassica juncea L.) in Sirohi District of Rajasthan','Aabha Parashar*, M.S. Chandawat, Kamini Parashar and M.S. Meena','61 Assessment of Cluster Front-line Demonstration on the Yield and Gap Analysis of Mustard _Brassica juncea L._ in Sirohi District of Rajasthan Aabha Parashar.pdf','',1,'Present study assessed the performance of cluster front-line demonstration on mustard through improved varieties, seed inoculation, application of sulphur, disease and pest management on production and productivity. Cluster front-line demonstration were conducted during 2018-19 to 2020-21 in integrated crop management mode. KVK demonstrated the RGN-229 and DRMRIJ-31 (Giriraj) variety of mustard in Sirohi district. The result showed that under CFLDâ€™s, the average yield of mustard were 18.13, 21.72, and 21.90 qha-1 as compare to 14.64, 16.90 and 16.98qha-1 recorded, average yield increase of 23.83, 28.52 and 28.97 per cent, and additional return of 17472, 21162 and 20656 rupees per hectare, respectively. The identified technology gaps are due to different soil fertility status, weather conditions and climate vulnerability. Cluster front line demonstration is a project sanction under National Mission on Oilseeds and Oil Palm (Mini Mission-I) for reducing the wide gap of oilseed dis','Cluster front-line demonstration, Mustard, DRMRIJ-31, RGN-229, Yield. ','The study showed that integrated crop management of mustard gave high yield and net returns in demonstration practice than farmers practice in all tehsils of Sirohi district. The highest grain yield was attributed to higher potential with improved seed, proper sowing techniques and integrated management of nutrient, weed, disease, pest in accordance of package and practice. Economic analysis of different parameterâ€™s revealed that net returns and additional gain were recorded highest with Demonstration practice. The study was concluded that Integrated crop management of mustard in demonstration practice proved beneficial in respect of yield, economics and gap analysis of mustard as compare to farmers practice. But additional extension work is required to reduce the gap between demand and supply as well as area under mustard crop. ','-','Aabha Parashar, M.S. Chandawat, Kamini Parashar and M.S. Meena (2022). Assessment of Cluster Front-line Demonstration on the Yield and Gap Analysis of Mustard (Brassica juncea L.) in Sirohi District of Rajasthan. Biological Forum â€“ An International Jou'),(3686,'112','Effects of Imidacloprid and Pendimethalin on Carbohydrates, Lipid and Protein Constituents of Pheretima posthuma','Sakshi, Dharambir Singh* and Parveen Gill','62 Effects of Imidacloprid and Pendimethalin on Carbohydrates, Lipid and Protein Constituents of Pheretima posthuma Dharambir Singh.pdf','',1,'The study was carried out for estimating the effect of pesticides imidacloprid and pendimethalin on biochemical constituents of Pheretima posthuma exposed for 90 days. Earthworm samples were collected on 1st and 90th days of treatment with imidacloprid and pendimethalin. Thereafter, earthworm powder was made which was then used for estimation of carbohydrate by Standard Phenol Sulphuric method, crude lipid by Soxhlet Extraction method and crude protein by Micro-Kjelhdal method respectively. Significant dose dependent reduction in biomolecules compositions observed in pesticides treated earthworms and maintaining the proper environment for properly measuring the carbohydrates, lipids, and protein constituents of Pheretima posthuma estimation was extremely difficult due to the rapid variation of these earthworm biomolecules.The combination dose of imidacloprid and pendimethalin were found to be more toxic than individual exposure of both chemicals. The maximum decrease in carbohydrate (4','Pheretima posthuma, Soxhlet Extraction, Standard Phenol Sulphuric method','This study showed the degrading effect of Imidacloprid and Pendimethalin on carbohydrate, lipid and protein constituent of Pheretima posthuma. Imidacloprid was found to be more harmful than Pendimethalin when applied individually.\r\n So information provides by results, will be useful in estimating the effect of pesticides on Pheretima posthuma.\r\n','-','Sakshi, Dharambir Singh and Parveen Gill (2022). Effects of Imidacloprid and Pendimethalin on Carbohydrates, Lipid and Protein Constituents of Pheretima posthuma. Biological Forum â€“ An International Journal, 14(1): 367-370.'),(3687,'112','Floristic Diversity Assessment of Forest areas of Jamui District of Bihar','A. Chandra*, H.B. Naithani, P.K. Verma, J. Saxena and S. Kishwan','63 Floristic Diversity Assessment of Forest areas of Jamui District of Bihar A. Chnadra.pdf','',1,'The goal of the study was to determine the plant diversity of Jamui district of Bihar. Five forest sites were selected at random for the study. The study reveals that there are 129 species belonging to 109 genera and 52 families (46 dicotyledons, 5 monocotyledons, and 1 pteridophyte). Fabaceae (11 species) was the biggest family in the area, followed by Poaceae (7 species), Caesalpiniaceae (6 species), etc. In terms of habitat, in all five locations had 59 tree, 21 shrub, 23 herb, 18 climber, 7 grass and 1 pteridophyte species. For tree, shrubby, and herbaceous layers different diversity indices such as Important Value Index (IVI), Species richness, Shannon Wiener index, Concentration of dominance and Evenness were estimated. Study reveals that Lachcuar site is the most diverse in the area followed by Bamdah, Dahiyari, Mircha and Narganjo. Findings will be extremely useful to forest department officials, researchers, students, and others in carrying out conservation and manage','Plant Diversity, Important Value Index, Species richness, Conservation.','It is concluded from the study that Jamui district of Bihar possesses high floristic diversity in the forest area. However, plant diversity is not the same in all areas. On the basis of different diversity attributes in the tree layer, the Lachcuar site is the most diverse site in the Jamui district, followed by Bamdah, Dahiyari, Mircha and Narganjo. In the case of shrubby layer, the Mircha site was the most diverse, followed by Lachchuar, Dahiyari, Bamdah and Narganjo. The herbaceous layer had more diversity at the Narganjo site, followed by Lachchuar, Mircha, Bamdah and Dahiyari. The Narganjo site is relatively less diverse than other sites in the area. Further investigation should be carried out to find the cause of the low diversity at the site and appropriate management strategies should be adopted for its restoration. Both quantitative and quantitative assessments of vegetation are essential for a holistic picture of the diversity of any area for developing conservation and manag','-','A. Chandra, H.B. Naithani, P.K. Verma, J. Saxena and S. Kishwan (2022). Floristic Diversity Assessment of Forest areas of Jamui District of Bihar. Biological Forum â€“ An International Journal, 14(1): 371-378.'),(3688,'112','Studies on Variability in Growth, Foliage and Flowering characteristics of Seedling Origin Guava (Psidium guajava L.)','Murari Lal Chopra*, Krishan Kumar, Vikas, Megha Ahir and Priynka Kumari Jat','64 Studies on Variability in Growth, Foliage and Flowering characteristics of Seedling Origin Guava _Psidium guajava L._ Murari Lal Chopra.pdf','',1,'The present study entitled â€œStudies on variability in growth, foliage and flowering characteristics of seedling origin guava (Psidium guajava L.)â€ was conducted to assess variation among existing guava trees of seedling origin. A total of 60 healthy and bearing guava trees of seedling origin were marked for detailed studies during 2017-18. Marked trees were observed to be erect, spreading and drooping in growth habit, varying in tree height (4.0-10.6 m), trunk girth (38.3-112.1 cm), extension growth of twigs (15.7-22.2 cm) and fruit yield (16.0-34.8 kg/tree). The variation was observed in shape of leaf (round, ovate, obtrullate, obovate and oblong) and colour of mature leaf (green to dark green). Predominant number of flowers in inflorescence showed variation (one, two and three flowers per inflorescence). The observed range of variation for flower size and flowering duration was 34.77-41.78 mm and 30-39 days, respectively. Out of 60 guava seedling trees studied four trees were des','Variation, Growth, Seedling, Habit. ','In conclusion, it is obvious that guava seedling trees exhibit a great degree of morphological variation, as evidenced by observations made on the majority of horticulturally important characters. Their potential as selection criteria for future crop enhancement research is suggested by their high to moderate coefficients of variation.','-','Murari Lal Chopra, Krishan Kumar, Vikas, Megha Ahir and Priynka Kumari Jat (2022). Studies on Variability in Growth, Foliage and Flowering characteristics of Seedling Origin Guava (Psidium guajava L.). Biological Forum â€“ An International Journal, 14(1):'),(3689,'112','Principal Component Analysis for Yield and Bacterial Leaf Blight (BLB) Disease Resistance in Rice (Oryza sativa L.) Genotypes','Mukul*, P.K. Singh and S.P. Singh','65 Principal Component Analysis for Yield and Bacterial Leaf Blight _BLB_ Disease Resistance in Rice _Oryza sativa L._ Genotypes Mukul.pdf','',1,'The present investigation was carried out to determine variability among 184 rice genotypes using principal component analysis. First five principal components exhibited more than one Eigen values. PC1 accounted 28.29 % of the total variability contributed by the traits like panicle length, 1000-grain weight, grain weight per plant and AUDPC. The remaining variability of 20.40%, 14.16%, 10.91% and 10.03% was consolidated in component 2, component 3, component 4 and component 5 by various traits like days to 50% flowering, days to maturity, plant height, effective tillers per plant, panicle length, spikelets per panicle, grain weight per plant, 1000 grain weight, grain yield per plant and AUDPC. The first five axes accounted 84.33% of cumulative variance of total variance among 10 characters. Thus the results of principal component analysis revealed, vast genetic variation and the traits contributing for the variation in rice genotypes can be used for various breeding programmes for imp','Rice, Variability, Principal Component Analysis, Yield.','Each coefficient of proper vectors expresses the degree of contribution of independent figure with which each primary component is associated, whereas the phenotypic value of each variable gauges the importance and contribution of each component to total variance. Thus, the prominent variables forming different main components and contributing to the interpretation of variability and having a higher retention rate together may be taken into account when using these variables in breeding programmes for yield and bacterial blight resilience. On the basis of result it had concluded that five component viz., PC1, PC2, PC3, PC4 and PC5 contributed 84.33 per cent of total variation.','-','Mukul, P.K. Singh and S.P. Singh (2022). Principal Component Analysis for Yield and Bacterial Leaf Blight (BLB) Disease Resistance in Rice (Oryza sativa L.) Genotypes. Biological Forum â€“ An International Journal, 14(1): 386-390.'),(3690,'112','Enhancement of Productivity and Profitability of Sesame (Sesamum indicum L.) through Involvement of Scientific Recommended Cultivation Practices under Front Line Demonstrations (FLDs) in Sidhi District of Madhya Pradesh','Dhananjai Singh*, Pushpa Jharia, Amrita Tiwari, Priya Chouksey, A.K. Patel and M.S. Baghel','66 Enhancement of Productivity and Profitability of Sesame _Sesamum indicum L._ Through Involvement of Scientific Recommended Cultivation Practices under Front Line Dhananjai Singh.pdf','',1,' Farm Science Centre also known as Krishi Vigyan Kendra, which conducted Front Line Demonstrations in the program of AICRP on Sesame & Niger in the year 2019 to 2021 incorporating newly released improved variety â€œTKG 306â€ and applying scientific cultivation practices in their crop production. Sesame productivity and economic returns in enhanced technology were calculated and compared to the practices of the corresponding farmers (local check). Among recommended crop production techniques of sesame ICM gave the highest yield of 645 kg/ha followed by 579 kg/ha (Plant Protection), 481 kg/ha (Sowing method) and 469 kg/ha (Improved variety TKG 306) as compare to farmers practice and overall average of all the recommended practices (544 kg/ha) gave higher yield over farmers practice (304 kg/ha). Same trends were observed in with respect to growth and yield attributes. The maximum production was 6.45 q/ha in the Front Line Demonstrations plot, and 2.98 q/ha in farmers\' practice. Despite a','Frontline Demonstration, Technology gap, Extension gap, Sesame.','It is concluded from the study that through FLD of recommended technologies, yield of sesame can be increased to its potential yield in Sidhi district. This will substantially increase the income as well as livelihood of the farming communities. Major attention is to be made on development of area specific technology module for enhancing the productivity of oilseeds in various agro ecosystem of Madhya Pradesh.','-','Dhananjai Singh, Pushpa Jharia, Amrita Tiwari, Priya Chouksey, A.K. Patel and M.S. Baghel (2022). Enhancement of Productivity and Profitability of Sesame (Sesamum indicum L.) Through Involvement of Scientific Recommended Cultivation Practices Under Front '),(3691,'112','Assessment of Genetic Diversity in Rice (Oryza sativa L.) Genotypes for Yield and Attributing Traits','Mukul*, Sandhya, P.K. Singh and S.P. Singh','67 Assessment of Genetic Diversity in Rice _Oryza sativa L._ Genotypes for Yield and Attributing Traits Mukul.pdf','',1,'A set of 70 rice genotypes were assessed the genetic diversity using Mahalanobis D2 statistics. The rice genotypes were grouped into eight clusters. Among these eight clusters, cluster V had maximum number of genotypes 17 followed by cluster VI with 15 genotypes, cluster VII with 12 genotypes, cluster III with 9 genotype, cluster VIII with 6 genotypes, cluster IV with 3 and the remaining clusters (I, II,) were in each cluster consisting of four genotypes. There were no distance (0) present between intra-clusters. The maximum inter-cluster distance was found between cluster IV and VIII followed by cluster II and IV. Cluster VIII showed the highest cluster mean for yield per plant (g), cluster I showed highest cluster mean for 1000-grain weight and cluster VII showed highest cluster mean for spikeletâ€™s per panicle. Hybridization between genotypes cluster IV and VIII followed by cluster II and IV could yield better segregants.','Cluster, Genetic diversity, Rice, Hybridization.','The allocation of genotypes from distinct environment into separate categories was random, demonstrating that topographical and genetic diversity were interdependent. Thus, for separating superior isolates in segregating generations, crossing genotypes pertaining to clusters dispersed by huge inter cluster distances and diverging dramatically for variables contributing significantly to total genetic differentiation would be more profitable. In the present investigation genotypes viz., IC 256514, IC 256515, IC 256525, IC 256807, IC 273558, IC 277292, IC 256528, IC 260937, IC 260961, IC 267428) and IV (IC 256518, IC 260917, IC 277266 were superior not only for grain yield per plant but also related traits. Hence, crossing of such genotypes will result in greater variation in the segregating population, which will be helpful to improve rice crop.','-','Muku*, Sandhya, P.K. Singh and S.P. Singh (2022). Assessment of Genetic Diversity in Rice (Oryza sativa L.) Genotypes for Yield and Attributing Traits. Biological Forum â€“ An International Journal, 14(1): 397-400.'),(3692,'112','First Report of Molecular characterization of Colletotrichum gloeosporioides L. causing Leaf Blight Disease of Arecanut in Karnataka, India','B. Gangadhara Naik, K. Hariprasad*, M. K. Naik, Suresh Patil and M. Ravi Kumar','68 First Report of Molecular characterization of Colletotrichum gloeosporioides L. causing Leaf Blight Disease of Arecanut in Karnataka, India B. Gangadhara Naik.pdf','',1,'Arecanut (Areca catechu L.) is one of the most profitable commercial plantation crop cultivated in hilly, maidan and coastal regions of Karnataka. The crop suffers from various biotic and abiotic stresses however, among the biotic stresses leaf spot or leaf blight diseases caused by Colletotrichum gloeosporioides has became very severe from lost few years resulting in huge financial loss to the growers. Initially the causal agent has been identified as Colletotrichum gloeosporioides based on morphological characters. However, pathogen identification was not done based on molecular characterization. Therefore in the present study effort was made to identify the organism through ITS rDNA sequencing and the obtained sequence was deposited in the Genbank. The present work is the first Indian report of ITS rDNA region amplification of Colletotrichum gloeosporioides causing leaf blight disease in arecanut.','Arecanut, Leaf Blight, Colletotrichum gloeosporioides, Molecular characterization.','Probably due to the change in scenario all the minor or neglected diseases/ pathogens are taking upper hands in the recent years one such neglected pathogen is Colletotrichum gloeosporioides. Identifying the causal agent facilitates resistance breeding programs and determines the best control strategies against leaf blight disease. Identification of Colletotrichum to the species level was traditionally reliant on host, cultural and morphological descriptions such as size and shape of conidia, colony growth rate and pigmentation, but nowadays comparison of nuclear rDNA internal transcribed spacer is becoming predominant so one such attempt was made to determine the nature of the pathogen through ITS technique. To the best of our knowledge the present work is the first report of ITS rDNA region amplification of Colletotrichum gloeosporioides infecting arecanut in India. However in the future days the multi-locus phylogenetic analyses of the pathogen will be studied by which the pathogen','-','B. Gangadhara Naik, K. Hariprasad, M.K. Naik, Suresh Patil and M. Ravi Kumar (2022). First Report of Molecular characterization of Colletotrichum gloeosporioides L. causing Leaf Blight Disease of Arecanut in Karnataka, India. Biological Forum â€“ An Inte'),(3693,'112','IoTs and AI Applications for Smart Agricultureâ€“A Review','Ramarao*, Vishwanatha S., Shwetha B.N., Shreenivas C.S., Vinay Kumar M. and Parvati','69 IOTS and AI Applications for Smart Agriculture â€“A ReviewIOTS and AI Applications for Smart Agriculture â€“A Review Ramarao.pdf','',1,'With the development of technology, matters have become wise with skills of self-communication among them. Internet of things (IoT) linked each day domestic belongings to the net and causes them to bright to make selections like the social thoughts. Devices gather the actual atmospheric facts and with the assistance of synthetic intellect (AI) procedures evaluation of records receipts place in order that gadgets act extra vigorously. The current article discusses how IoT revolutionized the agrarian network. With the involvement of generation, it converts smooth to expect temperature, rainfall, humidity, weed identity, the essential for fertilizers, water necessities, and so on. The introductions of current day farming strategies using IoT and AI are transforming the conventional agriculture practices and are making farming a worthwhile mission additionally. The fast arrival of the internet-of-matters (IoT) based fully tools reformed almost each enterprise which includes -smart agricul','Smart farming, e pest, IoT, AI, automation, weed identification.','IoT-enabled farming has assisted in the execution of pioneering practical answers to ancient wisdom. This needs assisted in connecting the gap amongst production, quality, and yield amount. Data collected by acquiring and introducing data since several devices for actual usage or storage in a record ensures fast action and negligible plant damage. Harvest is administered faster and reaches superstores in the direct time possible cheers to seamless endwise intellectual operations and better occupational process implementation. As a consequence, IoT farming requests allow farmers and farmers to collect valuable data. Huge landlords and minor growers must know the IoT marketplace\'s probable for farming and tool smart knowledge to recover their manufacture\'s affordability and sustainability. Through the world\'s populace unceasingly growing, farmers and minor agriculturalists may effectively encounter request provided they use farming IoT answers in a gainful way. ','-','Ramarao, Vishwanatha S., Shwetha B.N., Shreenivas C.S., Vinay Kumar M. and Parvati (2022). IoTs and AI Applications for Smart Agriculture â€“A Review. Biological Forum â€“ An International Journal, 14(1): 404-410.'),(3694,'112','Measuring Vulnerability Index to Climate Change: A Case of Tamil Nadu','Bharath D.*, Velusamy R., Amarnath J.S. and Sivasankari B.','70 Measuring Vulnerability Index to Climate Change A Case of Tamil Nadu Bharath D.pdf','',1,'Index is an indicator or measurement of something. The word â€˜indexâ€™ is a statistical measure of change in a representative set of individual data points. These numbers can come from various of sources, prices, productivity and employment. The term index has various meanings. For our purpose, it is a numerical scale computed from a collection of indicators chosen by the researcher for each district and used to compare them to one another or to some reference point. Climate change is a contentious issue right now. Vulnerability is an exposure of individuals or collective groups to livelihood stress as a result of the impacts of such environmental change. Objective of this research is to develop the vulnerability index to climate change. The study implemented the vulnerability method according to Iyengar and Sudarshan to evaluate vulnerability for 04 various components. The various sectors according to the different indicators are used to progress a hierarchy of vulnerability classifi','Index, Vulnerability, Measurement, Climate change, Indicator.','Vulnerability differs significantly across regions, it is recognised that â€œeven within regions, impacts, adaptive capacity and vulnerability will vary and the Tamil Nadu state of cuddalore district is no exemption to this. District wise results reveal the primary contributor for the overall vulnerability of the climate change is agricultural sector. Because the agricultural sector has the largest impact, investments in research capacity adaptation are needed, notably in the creation of climate \r\nproof crops (drought resistant and heat tolerance types) that can withstand a broad variety of climatic circumstances. Vulnerability index was developed by using Iyenger and Sudarshanâ€™s method and it led to find most vulnerable area among these districts. \r\n','-','Bharath D., Velusamy R., Amarnath J.S. and Sivasankari B. (2022). Measuring Vulnerability Index to Climate Change: A Case of Tamil Nadu. Biological Forum â€“ An International Journal, 14(1): 411-415.'),(3695,'112','Genetic Parameters and Association Studies for Yield and Yield Contributing Traits in Pearl Millet Cultivars','D. Shashibhushan*, C.V. Sameer Kumar and Ravi Kiran Reddy Kondi','71 Genetic Parameters and Association Studies for Yield and Yield Contributing Traits in Pearl Millet Cultivars D. Shashibhushan.pdf','',1,'The genetic characteristics for eight quantitative traits were studied using a set of 40 pearl millets genotypes. Peral millets is the only crop which is enriched with nutrients and can give robust yield under harsh conditions. Therefore, exploring the variability, heritability and other parameters can make it as potential crop for future. Analysis of variance revealed significant differences for all studied parameters in the experimental materials. All characters have a high broad sense heritability. Except for days to maturity, all traits had the highest heritability when combined with GAM. GCV values were highest for productive tillers/plant and fodder yield/plot. Plant height, productive tillers per plant, yield per plant, and fodder yield per plot all had the highest PCV. At both the genotypic and phenotypic levels, grain yield per plant demonstrated a strong significant positive association with attributes such as fodder yield per plot, productive tillers per plant, panicle lengt','Pearl millets, RBD, Genetic parameters, GCV, PCV, Association analysis.','Variability most important for breeding potent varieties, by ANOVA we came to know there is significant amount variation present with the population for all studied parameters. All characters have a high broad sense heritability. Except for days to maturity, all traits had the highest heritability when combined with GAM this means selection of these characters is worthy in improving the yield ability of genotypes. PCV observed little bit high than GCV values showing environmental influence on the characters. Plant height, productive tillers per plant, yield per plant, and fodder yield per plot all had the highest PCV showing genotype and environmental interaction on character expression. At both the genotypic and phenotypic levels, grain yield per plant demonstrated a strong significant positive association with attributes such as fodder yield per plot, productive tillers per plant, panicle length, and panicle diameter showing true relationships with grain yield per plant, according to','-','D. Shashibhushan, C.V. Sameer Kumar and Ravi Kiran Reddy Kondi (2022). Genetic Parameters and Association Studies for Yield and Yield Contributing Traits in Pearl Millet Cultivars. Biological Forum â€“ An International Journal, 14(1): 416-421.'),(3696,'112','Optimisation of Process Parameters of parching, Puffing and Malting for Better Nutritional Quality Products of Quinoa','Mahendra Kumar*, Alpana Singh, Anubha Upadhyay and Ankit Bharti','72 Optimisation of Process Parameters of parching, Puffing and Malting for Better Nutritional Quality Products of Quinoa Kumar Mahendra.pdf','',1,'To increase popularity of quinoa among all masses, certain processing techniques such as parching, puffing and malting can be easily adopted at household and even at cottage level. In this study an attempt have been made to develop a quinoa based processed food with higher nutritive value by optimisation of parching, puffing and malting. Puffed, parched and malted cereals are ready to eat whole cereal foods which having more nutrients than other cereals. All malted products from quinoa were prepared by slight modification of process parameter (Soaking time and germination time) of malting which leads to increase its malting yield. All the processed products by optimisation of puffing showed improvement in puffing yield which was useful for further formulation and product development. Process parameters such as puffing temperature and puffing time were optimised for puffed products of quinoa. All the processed products by puffing and parching showed improvement in final yield by optimis','Quinoa, Malting, Puffing, Parching, Optimisation, Soaking, Germination.','With high nutritional value, quinoa is recognized as significant place in food security and treating malnutrition issue in developing countries In this study, the effects of soaking and germination duration on the malting yield of quinoa was evaluated and optimized. Soaking and germination significantly affects the malting yield of quinoa and the results shows significantly improved quality of malted products. Quinoa malt was optimized based on barley malt specifications, which are considered appropriate in the malt production industry for optimal processing. Under the present study optimization of process parameters for puffing includes puffing time, puffing temperature and puffing yield. Undoubtely optimization of puffing increases nutritional quality as well as functional properties of quinoa. Parching was similar processing method and the optimization parameters include parching time, parching temperature and parching percentage. Protein and carbohydrate in the processed products (','-','Mahendra Kumar, Alpana Singh, Anubha Upadhyay and Ankit Bharti (2022). Optimisation of Process Parameters of parching, Puffing and Malting for Better Nutritional Quality Products of Quinoa. Biological Forum â€“ An International Journal, 14(1): 422-426.'),(3697,'38','Metallic Nanoparticles as Green-sustainable Catalyst: A Brief Outlook on Recent Progress ','Vineeta Singh','47 Metallic Nanoparticles as Green-sustainable Catalyst A Brief Outlook on Recent Progress Vineeta Singh.pdf','',1,'Green nanoscience is the science useful for build clean technology by that one resolve scale back the potential risks of locale and furthermore advancement the human health conditions. The nanotechnology synthesizes new miniaturize at nanoscale level with excellent properties which can replace the classically existing lowâ€quality macro-system by modern nanosystems. The most motive of developing new nanoproducts is to reinforce property and additionally to create them further environments friendly. In nanoscale materials (nanoparticles or NPs) having characteristic length within the nanometric range (1-100nm), properties of nanomaterials are entirely different from individual atoms/molecules or from bulk materials. For any catalyst, we wish to attain long life cycle, 100% property and low energy consumptions, and these properties is solely gained by dominant the scale, shape, electronic structure and chemical \\thermal stability of chemical action particles. The nanoscale sized metalli','Green, Nanocatalysis, Metal-nanoparticles (MNPs), Eco-friendly, application.','','',''),(3698,'112','Induction of Antioxidants by PGPR to Mitigate Stress by Pathogen F. oxysporum in Chickpea Variety KWR-108 under Drought','Swapnil B. Matikhaye*, Bethala Kumeera, D.P. Gogle, Suchit A. John and P.W. Ramteke','73 Induction of Antioxidants by PGPR to Mitigate Stress by Pathogen F. oxysporum in Chickpea Variety KWR-108 under Drought Swapnil B. Matikhaye.pdf','',1,'The present study was conducted during 2019-2020 and 2020-2021 at MBGE Department, RTMNU, Nagpur, Maharashtra to assess the effects of PGPR with biocontrol activity on antioxidant parameters under drought conditions in situ (field) studies. Three potential PGPRs namely Pseudomonas spp, E. cloacae and P. chlororaphis were used in the present study. The pooled data of two experiment results of antioxidant enzymes recorded T7 (A+B) PGPR treatment with consortium of Pseudomonas spp. and P. chlororaphis ranged highest in proline with 5.37 (Âµg/g). In SOD highest recorded with 8.13 (U/mg) in T7 (A+B), PAL ranged highest between 1.76 (mg/L), catalase with 15.56 (Âµg/g) in T7 treatment according to the pooled data. However the lipid peroxidation and H2O2 content indicated as toxic levels caused by over production of ROS during water deficit stress. This could overcome by decreasing levels of MDA through PGPR T7 treatment with 8.67 (Mm-1 cm-1), while increased in T3 with 12.39 (Mm-1 cm-1) thus ','Chickpea, Fusarium oxysporum, PGPR, drought, Biochemical. ','From the results, it is concluded that T7 (A+B) is the best combination treatment comprising of Pseudomonas spp. and Pseudomonas chlororaphis in control of Fusarium oxysporum and mitigating drought stress in KWR-108 variety of chickpea in terms of antioxidant parameters such as proline, superoxide dismutase, catalase enzymes increased inorder to overcome negative effects of ROS, whereas lipid peroxidation and hydrogen peroxide decreased due to reported PGPR in this study by decreasing the toxic levels that occur during drought conditions. Therefore PGPR would be suitable reason to conquer reported pathogen even under water deficit conditions. ','-','Swapnil B. Matikhaye, Bethala Kumeera, D.P. Gogle, Suchit A. John and P.W. Ramteke (2022). Induction of Antioxidants by PGPR to Mitigate Stress by Pathogen F. oxysporum in Chickpea Variety KWR-108 under Drought. Biological Forum â€“ An International Journ'),(3699,'112','Crop Insurance: An Economic Review of its Performance in India','Deepali Chadha* and S.K. Srivastava','74 Crop Insurance An Economic Review of its Performance in India Deepali Chadha.pdf','',1,'India is an agrarian economy with 70 per cent of the total farmers belonging to small and marginal farmersâ€™ category (Census, 2011). Agriculture\'s reliance on the monsoon makes it a dangerous business, and it is the underlying cause of the country\'s agricultural disaster and farmer suicides. In 2019, over 42.4 thousand farmers and daily wagers committed suicide, an increase of nearly 6 per cent over the previous year (NCRB, 2019). Different alternatives have been developed, with one such mechanism being the implementation of a comprehensive crop insurance system, which cushions the shock of crop loss by assuring protection to farmers against natural hazards which are beyond their control. Although crop insurance has been in the country since 1972, yet it has been beset with several problems such as lack of transparency, high premium, delay in conducting crop cutting experiments and non-payment/delayed payment of claims to farmers. Thus, an attempt has been made in the present study ','Crop insurance, NAIS, PMFBY, WBCIS, CAGR, Instability index etc. ','The world has changed immensely over the years and there is an urgent need to bring that change in agriculture sector as well. Crop insurance schemes have been in existence in India, since a long time, but have failed to cover most of the agriculture sector (Rajeev and Nagendran, 2019). The above study demonstrated the progress of the previously operative schemes in India. Results revealed that positive growth rates of 4.40 per cent and 4.14 per cent have been attained in the number of farmers covered under NAIS and WBCIS respectively, over the study period. However, it has been reported that 86.86â€“94.25 per cent of small and marginal farmers were not covered during the kharif seasons, while 94.38â€“97.28 per cent were not covered during the rabi seasons from 2011 to 2016 (Rao, 2019). Further, indemnity level is quite less, which need to be increased so that more number of farmers opt for the same (Kumbalep and Devaraju, 2018). Therefore, the present study stresses the need to ident','-','Deepali Chadha and S.K. Srivastava (2022). Crop Insurance: An Economic Review of its Performance in India. Biological Forum â€“ An International Journal, 14(1): 434-439.'),(3700,'112','Genetic Diversity for Selection of Diverse Genotypes for Hybrid Breeding in Tomato (Solanum lycopersicum L.)','K. Sushma*, P. Saidaiah, Harikishan Sudini, A. Geetha and K. Ravinder Reddy','75 Genetic Diversity for Selection of Diverse Genotypes for Hybrid Breeding in Tomato _Solanum lycopersicum L. K. Sushma.pdf','',1,'An experiment was carried in tomato by using D2 analysis, the 23 genotypes were grouped into ten clusters. Based on the intra cluster distance, the intra cluster III had the maximum D2 value (102.28). Highest inter cluster generalized distance (597.76) was between cluster X and VIII indicating wider genetic diversity between these groups. The character number of fruits per plant contributed maximum (28.06 %) towards diversity by taking 71 times first ranking followed by ascorbic acid (16.60%) by 42 times. The remaining traits viz., days to first flowering, days to 50 % flowering, days to first harvest, days to last harvest and average fruit weight did not contribute to the total divergence. The genotypes performance and its characters with maximum contribution towards divergence should also be given due consideration, which appears as desirable in further crop improvement. Assessment of divergence in the germplasm is essential to know the spectrum of diversity so that improvement in fr','Cluster analysis, Inter cluster, Intra cluster, D2 statistics, Genetic diversity, Tomato, Genotypes.','While maximum intra cluster distance was recorded in cluster IV and this might be due to limited gene exchange or selection practices among the genotypes for diverse characters. The maximum inter cluster distance was observed between cluster X and VIII are farthest, indicating wider genetic diversity. Hence, they should be selected for making cross combinations to deliver heterotic crosses to exploit yield.','-','K. Sushma, P. Saidaiah, Harikishan Sudini, A. Geetha and K. Ravinder Reddy (2022). Genetic Diversity for Selection of Diverse Genotypes for Hybrid Breeding in Tomato (Solanum lycopersicum L.). Biological Forum â€“ An International Journal, 14(1): 440-444'),(3701,'112','Fertilization and Chemical Elicitors Response on Nodulation, Yield and Quality of Mungbean Seed and Fodder','Sarita* and O.P. Sharma','76 Fertilization and Chemical Elicitors Response on Nodulation, Yield and Quality of Mungbean Seed and Fodder Sarita.pdf','',1,'A field trial was experimented at Agronomy farm, S.K.N. college of agriculture, Jobner, Jaipur (Rajasthan). Results revealed that fertilization of 75% recommended dose of fertilizer (RDF) (15-30 N-P2O5 kg/ha) obtained more number of total nodules (19.88) and effective number of nodules/plant (17.88), fresh (103.4 mg/plant) and dry weight (59.27 mg/plant) of nodules, number of branches/plant and yield as compared to water spray (control) and 10-20 N-P2O5 kg/ha (50% RDF) and it remained at par with 20-40 N-P2O5 kg/ha (100% RDF). Among elicitors, 500 ppm thiourea significantly increased number of total nodules (20.4) and effective nodules/plant (18.22), fresh (103.96 mg/plant) and dry weight (60.72 mg/plant) of nodules, branches/plant at 50 DAS (8.9) and harvest stage (9.30) and yield over sole application of salicylic acid and control while, remained at par with application of salicylic acid + 2% at flower initiation. Quality parameters i.e. phosphorus concentration (%) & uptake (kg/ha)','Fertilization, Elicitors, Nodulation, Thiourea (TU).','It may be concluded that better root nodulation, good quality of seed and fodder and yield of mungbean can be enhanced by application of fertilizer at 100% RDF (20-40 N-P2O5 kg/ha) and foliar spray of thiourea @ 500pm at flower initiation.','-','Sarita and O.P. Sharma (2022). Fertilization and Chemical Elicitors Response on Nodulation, Yield and Quality of Mungbean Seed and Fodder. Biological Forum â€“ An International Journal, 14(1): 445-550.'),(3702,'112','Morphogenetic effect of NAA (1-naphthalene acetic acid) on in-vitro Regeneration of Aloe vera','Sarfraz Ahmad*, M.L. Jakhar, S.S. Rajput, S.S. Punia, Varsha Kumari and M.P. Ola','77 Morphogenetic effect of NAA _1-naphthalene acetic acid_ on in-vitro Regeneration of Aloe vera Sarfraz Ahmad.pdf','',1,'The NAA (1-naphthalene acetic acid) is an important auxin, commonly utilize in plant tissue culture for micropropagation of various plant species. The degree and direction of regeneration response of explant, highly influences with the concentration of growth regulator. Therefore, in the present investigation, effects of different levels of NAA (0.5 to 4.0 mg/l) were evaluated for shoot proliferation, callus induction and root induction of Aloe vera. Various concentrations of NAA had shown differential effects on lateral shoot explant in MS (Murashige and Skoog) medium. The treatment of 2.5 mg/l induced highest number of shoots (3.10) per explant, followed by 3.0 mg/l NAA (2.90) with 80 per cent induction frequency. Maximum callus weight (1.93 g) was observed at 3.5 mg/l with 50 per cent frequency while, highest number of roots (5.0) was obtained at 1.5 mg/l with root induction frequency of 90 per cent. Thus, for best economical use, these identified levels of NAA can be utilized for g','Aloe, Callus, Micropropagation, NAA, Root induction, Shoot proliferation.','Based on our study it was found that, NAA in MS medium showed all rounder effects on lateral shoot explant under in vitro condition. It can be utilized for shoot proliferation at intermediate levels (2.0-3.0 mg/l), callus induction at higher levels (more than 3.0 mg/l) and root induction at lower levels (below 2.0 mg/l). Therefore, for best economical use, identified levels of NAA can be utilized for getting maximum regeneration response of Aloe under in vitro condition.','-','Sarfraz Ahmad, M.L. Jakhar, S.S. Rajput, S.S. Punia, Varsha Kumari and M.P. Ola (2022). Morphogenetic Effect of NAA (1-naphthalene acetic acid) on in-vitro Regeneration of Aloe vera. Biological Forum â€“ An International Journal, 14(1): 451-454.'),(3703,'112','Effect of different Land-use Systems on Microbial Population and Urease Enzyme activity in a Mollisol','Basta Ram*, Ajeet Pratap Singh, Vijay Kant Singh, Shubham Anil Durgude and Anil Nath','78 Effect of Different Land-use Systems on Microbial Population and Urease Enzyme Activity in a Mollisol Basta Ram.pdf','',1,'The soil microbial properties and urease activity significantly influenced by different different treatments. Different land uses effect micrbial and urease enzyme activity, the present study was conducted at Norman E. Borlaug Crop Research Centre, G. B. Pant University of Agriculture and Technology, Pantnagar. The different treatment selected for study were T1 (riceâ€“potatoâ€“okra), T2 (riceâ€“pea (vegetable)â€“maize), T3 (sorghum multi-cut (fodder)â€“yellow sarsonâ€“black gram), T4 (rice-wheatâ€“green gram), T5 (riceâ€“berseem + oat + mustard (fodder)â€“maize + cowpea (fodder)), T6 (guava + lemon), S7 (poplar + turmeric), T8 (eucalyptus + turmeric), T9 (fallow). The highest value of soil bacteria (4.29 Ã— 108 cfu g-1 soil), fungi (3.99 Ã— 105 cfu g-1 soil), actinomycetes (3.46 Ã— 106 cfu g-1 soil), total microbial count (4.78 Ã— 108 cfu g-1 soil). More over, urease enzyme activity (9.23mg urea g1 soil 24h-1) observed under the T8 treatment, which was significantly differ from T9. Va','Land-use Systems, Microbial count, urease enzyme activity.','The bacterial, fungal, actinomycetes, total microbial population and urease activity differed significantly under different treatments. \r\nThe highest bacterial population, fungal population, actinomycetes, total microbial population and urease activity was reported under T8 (eucalyptus + turmeric) land-use system while the lowest were obtained under T9 (fallow uncultivated) treatment.The basis on of these result, concluded that among different treatment better microbial population and urease activity of soil were found under agro and forestry based treatment (T8 and T7 treatments). So, soil researchers should have been promoted the agroforestry land-use system in combination with agricultural systems. \r\n','-','Basta Ram, Ajeet Pratap Singh, Vijay Kant Singh, Shubham Anil Durgude and Anil Nath (2022). Effect of different Land-use Systems on Microbial Population and Urease Enzyme Activity in a Mollisol. Biological Forum â€“ An International Journal, 14(1): 455-4'),(3704,'112','Effect of Indole-3-acetic acid (IAA) on in-vitro Regeneration of Medicinal Plant-Gwarpatha (Aloe vera)','Sarfraz Ahmad*, M.L. Jakhar, S.S. Rajput, Varsha Kumari, S.S. Punia and Madhu Yadav','79 Effect of Indole-3-acetic acid _IAA_ on in-vitro Regeneration of Medicinal Plant-Gwarpatha _Aloe vera_ Sarfraz Ahmad.pdf','',1,'The discovery and documentation of the role of plant growth regulators in tissue culture served as major thrust for the crop improvement. For getting maximum response, utilization of suitable growth regulator at appropriate concentration needs to be carefully balanced and controlled. Therefore, the present investigation was carried out to optimize the levels of Indole-3-acetic acid (IAA) for micropropagation of Gwarpatha [Aloe vera (L.) Burm. f.]. Lateral shoot explant was used for inoculation with incorporation of different concentrations of IAA (0.5 â€“ 4.0 mg/L) in Murashige and Skoog (MS) medium. Diverse regeneration responses were observed for shoot multiplication, root induction and for callus induction at varied levels of IAA. Highest number of shoot per explant (2.90) was recorded in the treatment of 3.0 mg/L with 70 % induction frequency while, maximum number of root (4.10) was induced at 2.0 mg/L. Moreover, highest callus weight (1.24 g) was reported at 4.0 mg/L with yellow b','Aloe vera, Callus, Gwarpatha, Indole-3-acetic acid, Micropropagation, IAA, Root induction, Shoot proliferation.','Indole-3-acetic acid (IAA) plays multidimensional role on regeneration of Aloe vera under in vitro condition. However, different concentrations showed variable responses for shoot multiplication, root induction and callus proliferation in lateral shoot explant. The best performing levels for shoot multiplication and root induction were obtained at 3.0 mg/L and 2.0 mg/L, respectively. Moreover, maximum callus was obtained at the concentration of 4.0 mg/L. These identified treatment levels of IAA further can be utilized for better economic use in the propagation of Aloe vera under in vitro condition. ','-','Sarfraz Ahmad, M.L. Jakhar, S.S. Rajput, Varsha Kumari, S.S. Punia and Madhu Yadav (2022). Effect of Indole-3-acetic acid (IAA) on in-vitro Regeneration of Medicinal Plant-Gwarpatha (Aloe vera). Biological Forum â€“ An International Journal, 14(1): 460-46'),(3705,'112','Influence of Integrated Nutrient Management in Beet Root (Beta vulgaris L.) Cv. Crimson Globe for Growth and Yield under Alkaline conditions','V. Mounika*, D. Lakshminarayana, J. Srinivas, G. Sathish and P. Gouthami','80 Influence of Integrated Nutrient Management in Beet Root _Beta vulgaris L._ Cv. Crimson Globe for Growth and Yield Under Alkaline conditions V. Mounika.pdf','',1,'The present investigation was conducted at College of Horticulture, Mojerla, Sri Konda Laxman Telangana State Horticultural University, Mulugu, Telangana State, India in rabi season of 2019-20 with set of eight treatments. The treatments included 75 per cent and 50 per cent recommended dose of nitrogen, phosphate and potassium, as well as Farm yard manure, vermicompost, and biofertilizers (azotobacter and phosphorus solubilizing bacteria). Among the treatments 75 per cent Recommended dose of Nitrogen Phosphorus potassium plus Farm yard manure (6 tons per hectare) plus vermicompost (1.5 tonnes per hectare) plus Azotobacter (10 kg per hectare) plus PSB (10 kg per hectare) is best for growth recorded as minimum number of days required for 80 per cent germination of seedlings (2.55 days), longer plant height (46.50 cm), more number of leaves per plant (22.54), maximum leaf area (1350.16 cm2) and higher chlorophyll content index (24.24), and yield parameters as maximum root length (14.26 cm','INM, RDF, azotobactor, PSB, NPK content. ','According to the results of these experiments, beet root with 75 percent recommended dose of NPK plus Farm yard manure (6 t ha-1) plus Vermicompost (1.5 t ha-1) plus Azotobacter (10 kg ha-1) plus Phosphorus solubilizing bacteria (10 kg ha-1) followed by treatment 50 percent RDNPK plus Farm yard manure (6 t ha-1) plus Vermicompost (1.5 t ha-1) plus Azotobacter (10 kg ha-1) plus Phosphorus solubilizing bacteria (10 kg ha-1) appears to be a viable combination for improving beetroot Cv. Crimson Globe growth and yield characteristics under alkaline conditions.','-','V. Mounika, D. Lakshminarayana, J. Srinivas, G. Sathish and P. Gouthami (2022). Influence of Integrated Nutrient Management in Beet Root (Beta Vulgaris L.) Cv. Crimson Globe for Growth and Yield Under Alkaline Conditions. Biological Forum â€“ An Internati'),(3706,'112','Mutagenic Effectiveness and Efficiency of Chemical Mutagens in Barnyard millet (Echinochloa frumentacea)','M. Karthikeyan*, C. Vanniarajan, M. Vetriventhan, A. Nirmalakumari, R. Shanmuga Sundaram, T. Sivakumar and G. Srinivasan','81 Mutagenic Effectiveness and Efficiency of Chemical Mutagens in Barnyard millet _Echinochloa frumentacea_ M. Karthikeyan.pdf','',1,'Mutagenic effectiveness and efficiency of individual treatments of Ethyl Methane Sulphonate (EMS) and Sodium Azide (SA) were assessed in Barnyard millet. The treatments included three doses each of EMS and SA calculated based on their Lethal Dose (LD50). Different types of chlorophyll mutants namely albino, xantha, chlorina, striata, alboviridis, xanthoviridis and albomaculata were observed in the M2 population. Based on plant survival and chlorophyll mutation frequency in M2 generation, the effectiveness and efficiency were calculated for both the chemical mutagens. Mutagenic effectiveness and efficiency increased with the decrease in the concentration of mutagen. Hence, lower doses of chemical mutagens have proved to be more effective and beneficial in inducing mutations in barnyard millet.','Barnyard millet, Chemical mutagens, Mutagenic effectiveness and efficiency, Mutation breeding, Ethyl Methane Sulphonate, Sodium Azide.','Mutagenic effectiveness and efficiency of individual treatments of Ethyl Methane Sulphonate (EMS) and Sodium Azide (SA) were assessed in Barnyard millet. The treatments included three doses each of EMS and SA calculated based on their Lethal Dose (LD50). Different types of chlorophyll mutants namely albino, xantha, chlorina, striata, alboviridis, xanthoviridis and albomaculata were observed in the M2 population. Based on plant survival and chlorophyll mutation frequency in M2 generation, the effectiveness and efficiency were calculated for both the chemical mutagens. Mutagenic effectiveness and efficiency increased with the decrease in the concentration of mutagen. Hence, lower doses of chemical mutagens have proved to be more effective and beneficial in inducing mutations in barnyard millet.','-','M. Karthikeyan, C. Vanniarajan, M. Vetriventhan, A. Nirmalakumari, R. Shanmuga Sundaram, T. Sivakumar and G. Srinivasan (2022). Mutagenic Effectiveness and Efficiency of Chemical Mutagens in Barnyard millet (Echinochloa frumentacea). Biological Forum â€“'),(3707,'112','The Influence of Organic Manures on Zinc Availability in Saline Soils','R. Vigneshwaran*, K. Baskar and P.P. Mahendran','82 The Influence of Organic Manures on Zinc Availability in Saline Soils R. Vigneshwaran.pdf','',1,'In Agricultural Research Station, Tamil Nadu Agricultural University, Kovilpatti, an incubation experiment performed to investigate the upshot of manures on zinc availability in saline soils. In this study, ZnSO4.7H2O @ 25 kg ha-1 were incubated with FYM, vermicompost, coir-pith, and poultry manure for one month before application in a completely randomised design with ten treatments and three replications (CRD). At 15 days interval after incubation the soil samples were collected, i.e. 0, 15, 30, 45, and 60 days and examined for zinc. 1:20 ratio of ZnSO4 and vermicompost (T6) resulted in increased iron release throughout the incubation period compared to that of control. Zinc release varied from 0.60 mg kg-1 to 0.79 mg kg-1 in this treatment. Increased release of Zinc at the proportion of 1:20 ZnSO4 to vermicompost, followed by poultry manure, FYM, and coir pith application. ','Organic manures, ZnSO4, saline soil, FYM, Poultry manure, Coir pith.','The use of ZnSO4.7H2O in combination with vermicompost, poultry manure, FYM, and coir pith at a 1:20 ratio was found to be beneficial for zinc release in saline soil. It was unearthed that combining \r\nZnSO4.7H2O with vermicompost, poultry manure, FYM, and coir pith improved the micronutrient status of saline soil. Micronutrients addition had doubled the volume of zinc available in the soil.\r\n','-','R. Vigneshwaran, K. Baskar and P.P. Mahendran (2022). The Influence of Organic Manures on Zinc Availability in Saline Soils. Biological Forum â€“ An International Journal, 14(1): 477-480.'),(3708,'112','Characterization of Morphological Traits and Diversity Assessment of Desi Chickpea (Cicer arietinum L.) Lines','Sunny Thakur*, Garima Mishra, Surbhi Pachori and Anita Babbar','83 Characterization of Morphological Traits and Diversity Assessment of Desi Chickpea _Cicer arietinum L. Lines Sunny Thakur.pdf','',1,'The experiment was conducted in the rabi season of 2019-20 with the objective of morphological characterization and diversity estimation of 55 desi chickpea lines. Visual assessment of 19 phenotypic traits listed in DUS guidelines was performed. Seven traits were monomorphic, six were dimorphic, four were trimorphic and one (seed size) was polymorphic. Stem height at the initiation of the first flower, plant growth habit, and plant height showed considerable variation. Shannonâ€™s diversity indices were estimated using Microsoft excel. The index ranged from 0 to 1.420, with a mean value of 0.428. The highest value was obtained for seed size(g). Based on the current results, genotypes ICCV 181603, ICCV 191606, JG24 may be used as parents to develop tall, semi-erect and bold seeded varieties suitable for mechanical harvesting. These findings showcase wide morphological variation among the lines and their potential utilization in varietal identification, germplasm characterization and cro','Chickpea, DUS, Morphological Characterization, Shannonâ€™s Diversity Index, Diversity.','The results of the morphological characterization based on the DUS guidelines and diversity estimates obtained using Shannonâ€™s diversity index (H) aided in the effective classification of the genotypes. Based on this study, a high amount of diversity is present in the germplasm for traits such as seed size, pod size, leaf size, number of seeds per pod and seed shape. Seed size and seed shapes are desirable market and consumer traits. Genotypes with such morphology can be selected as a donor in the crossing programme after establishing the stability and heritability of the traits. Similarly, genotypes with erect and semi-spreading growth habit with having tall plant height and the first fruiting node above 25 cm can be utilized to develop plant types suitable for mechanical harvesting.','-','Sunny Thakur, Garima Mishra, Surbhi Pachori and Anita Babbar (2022). Characterization of Morphological Traits and Diversity Assessment of Desi Chickpea (Cicer arietinum L.) Lines. Biological Forum â€“ An International Journal, 14(1): 481-486.'),(3709,'112','Influence of different Moisture Conservation Practices on Yield, Quality and Root Growth of Bt. Cotton under Dryland condition of Central India','Pramod Kumar*, A. N. Paslawar, Sheilendra Kumar and Sanju Kumawat','84 Influence of different Moisture Conservation Practices on Yield, Quality and Root Growth of Bt. Cotton under Dryland condition of Central India Pramod Kumar.pdf','',1,'Controlling groundwater extraction in Maharashtra necessitates the use of water-saving techniques. In this region, Bt cotton provides a diversification option. The bottlenecks for Bt cotton production are high soil evaporation and soil temperature in the early portion of the growing season. In this research, we demonstrate that mulching and drip irrigation are the optimal water-saving strategies. Keeping the above in mind, a field experiment was conducted during Kharif season of 2016-17 to assess the influence of different moisture conservation practices in Bt. Cotton. This experiment was laid out in Randomized Complete Block design (RCBD) with seven treatments which were replicated thrice. The treatments were, i.e., T1: poly mulch on ridges and furrow with drip, T2: bio mulch on broad bed and furrow with drip, T3: poly mulch on broad bed and furrow with drip, T4: dust mulch on flatbed with drip, T5: no mulch on flatbed with drip, T6: conventional irrigation on ridges and furrow and T7','Cotton, Mulching, Drip, Growth, Yield, Quality.','Based on above results, it can be concluded that maximum yield from Bt. cotton can be obtained by moisture conservation practice of bio-mulch on BBF with a drip (T2). However, poly mulch on BBF with a drip (T3) recorded higher values of fibre qualities. Root volume and root weight were significantly higher with bio-mulch on BBF with a drip (T2).','-','Pramod Kumar, A. N. Paslawar, Sheilendra Kumar and Sanju Kumawat (2022). Influence of different Moisture Conservation Practices on Yield, Quality and Root Growth of Bt. Cotton under Dryland condition of Central India. Biological Forum â€“ An International'),(3710,'112','Effect of Abiotic factors on the Population of Thrips (Scirtothrips dorsalis) in Chilli Crop','Anil Nautiyal, R.S. Meena*, Rahul Saini and Ananya Nautiyal','85 Effect of Abiotic factors on the Population of Thrips Scirtothrips dorsalis in Chilli Crop Rahul Saini.pdf','',1,'Chilli is one of the most important vegetable crop that belongs to the Solanaceae family. It is one of the major crop that has suffered a lot due to insect and pest incidence. Chilli thrips are the exotic invasive pests of utmost importance. This pest damages all plant parts, feeds on young leaves, buds and fruits, destroying it physically and acts as a vector for viral diseases. The present study was conducted to check the pattern of various weather parameters during the crop growing season and its influence on the incidence of thrips population on the crop. It was recorded that the population of thrips started rising from 35th SMW and reached to a maximum at 45th SMW then started declining. It was also recorded that the thrips population was non-significant and positively correlated with maximum and minimum temperature, and the value recorded was 0.11 and 0.211, respectively. However, for weather parameters like rainfall relative humidity at morning time, negative and non-significant','Scirtothrips dorsalis, Thrips, Weather, Parameters, Chilli Pest.','It was observed that the peak population of thrips was recorded at 45th SMW. The population of S. Dorsalis were negatively and non-significantly correlated with precipitation and relative humidity at morning hours. But there population were positively and non-significantly correlated with maximum and minimum temperature. However thrips population shows negative and significant correlation with evening relative humidity. Further studies required to develop a model of abiotic factors and thrips population. ','-','Anil Nautiyal, R.S. Meena, Rahul Saini and Ananya Nautiyal (2022). Effect of Abiotic Factors on the Population of Thrips (Scirtothrips dorsalis) in Chilli Crop. Biological Forum â€“ An International Journal, 14(1): 491-494.'),(3711,'112','A Complete Review on Tissue Culture of Terminalia arjuna: A Medicinally and Economically Important Tree','Meena Choudhary* and Inder Dev Arya','86 A Complete Review on Tissue Culture of Terminalia arjuna A Medicinally and Economically Important Tree Meena Choudhary.pdf','',1,'Terminalia arjuna is an important multipurpose tree species. It is one of the major trees of sericulture industry to rear cocoon of tasar silkworm. The bioactive component present in this tree make it highly valuable tree in pharma industries. But, due to unscientific method of harvesting, poor seed germination and limits of conventional propagation method, its population is facing the threat of being endangered species. To replenish its loss, fulfill the need of therapeutic agents in short time and conserved such plant species, some alternate propagation methods for mass production of T. arjuna have been developed. The present review was done with the aim to highlight such non-conventional propagation methods. The literature described the different methods of propagation with different types of explants and potential of plant growth regulators in development of in vitro callus, somatic embryo, shoot and root system. The collective information on tissue culture methods of T. arjuna wil','Terminalia arjuna, medicinal plant, in vitro, callus and somatic embryo.','Medicinal plants like Terminalia arjuna have high impact on medicine industry due to presence of many natural therapeutic compounds. Due to certain limitation of conventional propagation methods, today, conservation of T. arjuna by rapid multiplication is only possible through plant tissue culture method. The mass production of T. arjuna through direct organogenesis, indirect organogenesis and somatic embryogenesis can help in conservation of Arjuna tree and fulfil the demand of raw material of therapeutic medicine. The finding of present study suggests that there is need of further refinement of in vitro propagation protocol through indirect organogenesis and somatic embryogenesis methods to make it more reproducible.','-','Meena Choudhary and Inder Dev Arya (2022). A Complete Review on Tissue Culture of Terminalia arjuna: A Medicinally and Economically Important Tree. Biological Forum â€“ An International Journal, 14(1): 495-501.'),(3712,'112','Effect of Plant Density and Branching Pattern on Cotton Seed Yield Components and Quality','A. Jaffer Sadhik, S. Kavitha*, J. Renugadevi and M. Ananthi','87 Effect of Plant Density and Branching Pattern on Cotton Seed Yield Components and Quality S. Kavitha.pdf','',1,'Cotton is one of the most vital fiber and cash crop of India. The production and productivity of cotton remained low until recent years. Further improvements in cotton yields are possible only through changes in agronomic management and cropping systems. Keeping these in view, current investigations were made to find out the influence of plant spacing and branching pattern on crop growth, flowering, boll production, seed filling, seed yield and quality characteristics of cotton cv. MCU 12. Three different plant spacing viz., narrow spacing (45 Ã— 15 cm), medium spacing (60 Ã— 30 cm) and wider spacing (90 Ã— 45 cm) and three different branching patterns viz., Branching pattern I (3 monopodia and 11 sympodia), Branching pattern II (2 monopodia and 12 sympodia) and Branching pattern III (1 monopodia and 15 sympodia) were studied in this research. Study on the influence of plant spacing on crop growth and seed yield of cotton revealed that a closer spacing of 45 Ã— 15 cm produced more n','Branching pattern, Cotton, Seed yield, Spacing, Quality.','Cotton sown at wider spacing of 90 Ã— 45 cm recorded more number of flowers, bolls, higher percentage of filled seeds, more kapas and seed yield plant-1 over medium (60 Ã— 30 cm) and closer spacing (45 Ã— 15 cm). On the contrary, closer spacing of 45 Ã— 15 cm (high density planting) has helped to maintaining more number of plants per unit area that enable to increase the kapas and seed seed yield per ha over wider spacing in the experiment. Within the branches of the different branching pattern, the first formed branches are most efficient in terms of source - sink efficiency as they recorded the highest values for number of bolls branch-1, number of seeds kapas-1, kapas yield branch-1, seed yield branch-1 and 100 seed weight than the later formed branches. As the hierarchy of branching order increased, significant reduction in seed quality parameters were noted. ','-','A. Jaffer Sadhik, S. Kavitha, J. Renugadevi and M. Ananthi (2022). Effect of Plant Density and Branching Pattern on Cotton Seed Yield Components and Quality. Biological Forum â€“ An International Journal, 14(1): 502-507.'),(3713,'112','Growth, Yield and Quality of Cauliflower (Brassica oleracea var. botrytis) as Affected by Integrated Nutrient Management under Low Hill Region of Himachal Pradesh','Deepa Sharma*, Ishant Dutta and Prachi Choudhary','88 Growth, Yield and Quality of Cauliflower _Brassica oleracea var. botrytis_ as Affected by Integrated Nutrient Management under Low Hill Region of Himachal Pradesh Deepa Sharma.pdf','',1,'The challenge for agriculture over the coming decades will be to meet the worldâ€™s increasing demand for food in a sustainable way. This is usually accomplished by use of chemical fertilizers and the production of new high yielding varieties. Both components are much expensive and consequently leads to an increase in the total cost production. Overuse of chemical fertilizers not only diminishes agricultural net profit, but also has a negative effect on soil health and crop yield, posing health and environmental risks. Thus, using a minimum effective dose of sufficient and balance quantities of organic and inorganic fertilizers to replace the portion of chemical fertilizers with organic manure is becoming a very promising practice not only for maintaining higher productivity but also for greater crop production stability. Therefore, a field experiment was conducted at the experimental farm of Department of Vegetable Science, College of Horticulture and Forestry Neri, Hamirpur (H.P.) du','INM, cauliflower, jeevamrit, panchgavya, yield, quality.','In the present study, best results were produced by treatment T8 (50% recommended dose of FYM + 50% recommended dose of sheep manure + 50% RDF of NPK + fortnight application of jeevamrit @ 5%) in terms of growth, yield and quality characters as well as B: C ratio followed by treatment T5 (Recommended dose of sheep manure + 75% RDF of NPK + fortnight application of jeevamrit @ 5%). \r\nSo, it can be concluded that, integrated application of different chemical fertilizers and organic manures enhances the growth, yield and quality of cauliflower which ultimately results in maximum net returns. Hence, for getting higher yield on sustainable basis, module T8 (50% recommended dose of FYM + 50% recommended dose of sheep manure + 50% RDF of NPK + fortnight application of jeevamrit @ 5%) can be suggested as a best combination for low hill region of Himachal Pradesh.\r\n','-','Deepa Sharma, Ishant Dutta and Prachi Choudhary (2022). Growth, Yield and Quality of Cauliflower (Brassica oleracea var. botrytis) as Affected by Integrated Nutrient Management under Low Hill Region of Himachal Pradesh. Biological Forum â€“ An Internation'),(3714,'112','Effect of Zinc Application Strategies on Nutrients Content, Uptake by Soybean and Status in Post-harvest Soil','Suwa Lal Yadav*, Hitendra K. Rai, Anil Kumar, Indra Raj Yadav, Laxman Kumawat, Manish Yadav and Shubham Singh\r\n','89 Effect of Zinc Application Strategies on Nutrients Content, Uptake by Soybean and Status in Post-harvest Soil Suwa Lal Yadav.pdf','',1,'Among the oilseed crops soybean is most important crop that having edible oil and also protein in seeds. Zinc is most deficient micronutrient in soils of India. So, it is most important to manage through applying Zn containing fertilizers. A field experiment was conducted at research farm of Jawaharlal Nehru Krishi Vishwa Vidyalaya, Jabalpur during kharif season of 2019 to evaluate zinc uptake by soybean, use efficiency and status of available Zn in post harvest soil under different strategies of zinc application. Experiment was laid under randomized block design having fourteen treatments of zinc application strategies [T1-Absolute control, T2-RDF + No Zn, T3-RDF + 5.0 kg Zn ha-1, T4-RDF + spray of 0.5 % ZnSO4 at 35 DAS, T5-RDF + spray of 0.5 % ZnSO4 at 35 and 55 DAS, T6-RDF + 5.0 kg Zn ha-1 + spray of 0.5 % ZnSO4 at 35 DAS, T7-RDF + 5.0 kg Zn ha-1 + spray of 0.5 % ZnSO4 at 35 and 55 DAS, T8-RDF + Zn solubilizer as soil application, T9-RDF + 5.0 kg Zn ha-1 + Zn solubilizer as soil app','Soybean, zinc application strategies, nutrient content, uptake and use efficiency.','Zinc is deficient in most of the soils of India, so need to supplement the soil with zinc containing fertilizers. The experimental study revealed that zinc application significantly increases nutrients content, uptake and use efficiencies. And also, data revealed that zinc application significantly increases nutrients status of soil after harvest of crop over absolute control treatment. From the present study concluded that application of RDF + 5.0 kg Zn ha-1 + spray of 0.5% ZnSO4 + 150 ppm salicylic acid at 35 and 55 DAS gives better results in terms of highest nutrients content and uptake (N, P, K and Zn) and use efficiency by soybean.','-','Suwa Lal Yadav, Hitendra K. Rai, Anil Kumar, Indra Raj Yadav, Laxman Kumawat, Manish Yadav and Shubham Singh (2022). Effect of Zinc Application Strategies on Nutrients Content, Uptake by Soybean and Status in Post-harvest Soil. Biological Forum â€“ An Int'),(3715,'112','Review: Nanotechnology in Agriculture: Prospects and Problems','Moneesa Bashir*, F.A. Bahar, Mohd. Anwar Bhat, Lal Singh, S.S. Mahdi, Tsultim Palmo, Ummaisa Rehman and Raheeba Tun Nisa','90 Review Nanotechnology in Agriculture Prospects and Problems Moneesa Bashir.pdf','',1,'Nanoscale expression of distinct particles has led to revolutionary advancements in all key areas such as health, drugs, and agriculture, as compared to their bulk equivalents. Nanotechnology is the science of studying nanoscale particles and their behaviour. Climate change, urbanisation, sustainable resource use, and environmental challenges are all factors that lead to the usage of nanotechnology in agriculture. Nanopesticides, nanofertilizers, nanoherbicides, controlled delivery devices etc are the nanotechnological applications in agriculture. Nanotechnological techniques, like any other technology, offer benefits and drawbacks. Some of the negative aspects of nanotechnology include: entry of nanoparticiles into environment, humans and plants to toxic levels; generation of large amounts of hazardous waste creating environmental threat. Adoption of greener methods for synthesis, as well as the use of green nanomaterials, is a current research trend, and before new nanotechnology adv','Nanotechnology, Nanoparticle, Nanofertilizer, Nanoherbicide, Sustainability, Environmental Risks','There are a variety of user-friendly nanotechnology applications in the agricultural environment ranging from nanoherbicides, nanofertilizers, manufacturing of biosensors, plant disease diagnosis and its management etc. Regardless of these potential uses, new applications must be properly examined and regulated before being introduced into various businesses. A lot of challenges relating to human safety, the environment, and the ecosystem have yet to be resolved. Human exposure to nanomaterials, as well as the agri-food chain, may have detrimental repercussions for human health and the environment since nanoparticles attack non-target areas. As a result, effective and realistic risk management methods should be utilised during technology advancements. However, owing to certain negative responses from the scientific community to its application in the food and agriculture industries, the future of nanotechnology remains questionable.','-','Moneesa Bashir, F.A Bahar, Mohd. Anwar Bhat, Lal Singh, S.S Mahdi, Tsultim Palmo, Ummaisa Rehman, Raheeba Tun Nisa (2022). Review: Nanotechnology in Agriculture: Prospects and Problems. Biological Forum â€“ An International Journal, 14(1): 519-528.'),(3716,'112','Incidence of Mycoflora in Indian Mustard (Brassica juncea) Seeds in Rajasthan','Sonali Meena, S. Godika, R.P. Ghasolia, Nisha Nitharwal, Pinki Meena and V.K. Kardam','91 Incidence of Mycoflora in Indian Mustard _Brassica juncea_ Seeds in Rajasthan Sonali Meena.pdf','',1,'Indian mustard [Brassica juncea (L.) Czern & Coss] is globally used as oilseed, vegetable and condiments. Mustard seeds are known to carry several pathogenic and non-pathogenic fungi which alter physiochemical properties of the seeds, losses of the seed weight, germination potential, and discoloration. Alternaria spp. is the most destructive pathogen of oilseeds in major growing areas. The aim of this study is to draw a systematic and comprehensive picture of important seed borne fungi of mustard which affect the production and productivity of mustard in major growing areas of Rajasthan. During present investigation, 100 seed samples were collected from ten major mustard growing districts of Rajasthan. Ten samples of each district were thoroughly mixed and one composite seed sample was established from every district and associated seed mycoflora and their incidence were quantified through blotter and agar plate methods. Results of dry seed analysis showed shriveled, discolored and dam','Indian mustard, Brassica juncea, seed mycoflora.','The maximum incidence (35.77 %) of seed mycoflora was recorded in un-surface sterilized seed sample of Alwar district and lowest in Bikaner and Jaipur sample (5.00%). A total of sixteen saprophytic as well as parasitic mycoflora (Alternaria brassicae, Alternaria alternata, A. brassicicola, Aspergillus niger, A. flavus, A. nidulans, A. fumigatus, A. ochraceous, Curvularia lunata, Drechslera tetramera, Rhizopus nigricans, Mucor sp., Penicillium sp., Chaetomium sp., Metarrhizium sp. and Fusarium oxysporum) belonging to nine genera were detected through Blotter and Agar Plate Methods. The fungal species recorded in PDA test were common to those observed in Blotter Test but per cent incidence of fungi varied in Blotter Test and Potato Dextrose Agar Plate Method (PDA). In conclusion, huge loads of mycoflora adversely affect seed germination and plant health which ultimately results in poor stand of crop and yield.','-','Sonali Meena, S. Godika, R.P. Ghasolia, Nisha Nitharwal, Pinki Meena and V.K. Kardam (2022). Incidence of Mycoflora in Indian Mustard (Brassica juncea) Seeds in Rajasthan. Biological Forum â€“ An International Journal, 14(1): 529-534.'),(3717,'112','Effect of Weed Management Practices on Weed and Plant Growth, and Yield of groundnut (Arachis hypogea L.)','Jitendra M., Srinivasulu K. and Prasad P. V. N.','92 Effect of Weed Management Practices on Weed and Plant Growth, and Yield of groundnut _Arachis hypogea L._ Jitendra M.pdf','',1,'Controlling weeds in groundnut by cultural practices, which are time consuming, expensive and laborious. Application of selective pre-emergence herbicides such as oxyfluorfen or alachlor is an usual method for controlling weeds during the early stages, however this allows weeds to emerge at later stages, especially in groundnut. So, The present investigation was framed and carried out during rabi season, 2020â€“21 on a sandy loamy soil at the Agricultural College Farm, Bapatla to examine the effect of different weed management practices on groundnut. The experiment was set up with nine treatments and three replications in a randomized block design. The outcomes of the experiment revealed that the lowest weed density, dry weight and the highest weed control efficiency were recorded with hand weeding at 20 and 40 DAS, which was at par with alachlor @ 1.5 kg a.i ha-1 as PE fb hand weeding at 30 DAS and fomesafen @ 110g + fluazifop-p-butyl @ 110 g a.i ha-1 as PoE at 20 DAS. Crop growth par','Weed density, dryweight, Plant growth and Yield.','Hand weeding at 20 and 40 DAS (T2) was found to be superior over other treatments in the overall study. Application of propaquizafop @ 50 g + imazethapyr @ 75 g a.i ha-1 as PoE at 20 DAS yielded equivalent pod yield (1986 kg ha-1) to hand weeding at 20 and 40 DAS among the post-emergence herbicides (2287 kg ha-1).','-','Jitendra M., Srinivasulu K. and Prasad P. V. N. (2022). Effect of Weed Management Practices on Weed and Plant Growth, and Yield of groundnut (Arachis hypogea L.). Biological Forum â€“ An International Journal, 14(1): 535-537.'),(3718,'112','Trait Association Analysis for Yield and its Components in Indian Mustard (Brassica juncea L.)','Raju Ram Choudhary*, Ram Avtar, Manjeet Singh, Harsh Chaurasia, Monu Kumari and Mukesh Poonia','93 Trait Association Analysis for Yield and its Components in Indian Mustard _Brassica juncea L._ Raju Ram Choudhary.pdf','',1,'Present study carried out with total sixty eight genotypes includes 50 hybrids, 10 mori CMS lines, five restores and three checks (RH-30, RH-0749 and DMH-1) of Indian mustard. These genotypes were evaluated for seed yield and its yield components for eleven characters during Rabi season of 2018-19 at Oilseeds Research Area, Chaudhary Charan Singh Haryana Agricultural University, Hisar. The results revealed that plant height, number of primary branches/plant, number of secondary branches/plant, main shoot length, number of siliquae on main shoot and number of seeds/siliquae have significant positive association with seed yield/plant. Genotypic correlation between number of siliquae on main shoot and seed yield per plant was found highest (0.704**) indicates direct selection based on number of siliquae on main shoot will be rewarding in selection of high seed yield genotypes. Path coefficient at genotypic level showed that number of secondary branches (0.448) and number of siliquae on m','Path coefficient, correlation coefficient, seed yield, character association, Indian mustard.','Seed yield per plant was positively and significantly correlated with plant height, number of primary branches, number of secondary branches, main shoot length, number of siliquae on main shoot and number of seeds per siliqua at both genotypic and phenotypic levels. The strongest genotypic association between the number of siliquae on the main shoot and seed yield per plant (0.704**), indicating that indirect selection based on the number of siliquae on the main shoot will be beneficial in the selection of high seed yield genotypes. Other characters that have a significant positive association between yield and important yield components would be extremely effective and efficient in increasing their respective traits. Path coefficient analysis identified as the number of secondary branches per plant and number of siliquae on main shoot had the highest positive direct effects on seed yield/plant. Characters listed above as essential direct and indirect yield components in producing high','-','Raju Ram Choudhary, Ram Avtar, Manjeet Singh, Harsh Chaurasia, Monu Kumari and Mukesh Poonia (2022). Trait Association Analysis for Yield and its Components in Indian Mustard (Brassica juncea L.). Biological Forum â€“ An International Journal, 14(1): 538-'),(3719,'112','Effect of Farmyard Manure, Azotobacter and Cow Urine on Plant Nitrogen, Phosphorus & Pottassium Uptake at Tillering, Jointing and Harvest Stage of Wheat under Rice (Oryza sativa L.) - Wheat (Triticum aestivum L.) Cropping System','Laxman Kumawat*, Drishty Katiyar, Mohan Lal Dotaniya, Suwa Lal Yadav and Chothmal Sharma','94 Effect of Farmyard Manure, Azotobacter and Cow Urine on Plant Nitrogen, Phosphorus & Pottassium Uptake at Tillering, Jointing and Harvest Stage of Wheat under Rice _Oryza sativa L._ - WheatLaxman Kumawat.pdf','',1,'Continuous use of inorganic fertilizers plays a vital role in deteriorating the soil health. Use of organic manure is the best remedy for maintaining soil quality as well as productivity and replacement of mineral fertilizers. In this context the present study entitled Effect of Organic Nutrient Sources on Soil Health and Productivity of Wheat under Rice-Wheat System was carried out during the Rabi seasons of 2017-18 at the Crop Research Centre, Chirodi farm of Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel University of Agriculture and Technology, Meerut, (Utter Pradesh), India. The experiment consisting seven treatments viz. T1= Control ( no organic manure), T2 = 10 t ha-1 Farmyard manure, T3 = 10 t ha-1 Farmyard manure + Cow urine + biofertilizer (Azotobacter), T4 = 10 t ha-1 Vermicompost (V.C.), T5 = 10 t ha-1 vermicompost (V.C.) + Cow urine + biofertilizer (Azotobacter), T6 = 7.5 t ha-1 Farmyard manure + Cow urine + biofertilizer (Azotobacter), T7 = 80 % of RDF of nitrogen through Vermicompost (V.C.) +','Vermicompost, Azotobacter, neem cake, phosphorus, and Wheat.','The continuous introduction of the rice-wheat cultivation system without organic nutrient sources proved detrimental to soil health and quality. It resulted in a significant decrease in nitrogen, phosphorus and potassium from their original values in the soil. Organic manure application resulted in the most significant increase in the uptake of major nutrients. The current study showed that the application of 80% RDF of nitrogen from Vermicompost + 10% from neem cake + Azotobacter (T7) resulted in significantly higher N, P, and K uptake of the plants in the tillering, jointing, and harvesting stage over the control plot (no manure application). The present study thus indicates that a combination of 80% of RDF nitrogen from vermicompost + 10% from neem cake + Azotobacter is promising for the cultivation of Wheat.','-','Laxman Kumawat, Drishty Katiyar, Mohan Lal Dotaniya, Suwa Lal Yadav and Chothmal Sharma (2022). Effect of Farmyard Manure, Azotobacter and Cow Urine on Plant Nitrogen, Phosphorus & Pottassium Uptake at Tillering, Jointing and Harvest Stage of Wheat unde'),(3720,'112','Effect of Nitrogen, Rhizobium and Growing Environments on Nodulation, Nutrient Content and Uptake of Albizia procera. R. b.','Yogesh Kumar*, V.M. Prajapati, M.B. Tandel, Govind, J.G. Pathak, M. R. Parmar and Aditya Pratap Singh','95 Effect of Nitrogen, Rhizobium and Growing Environments on Nodulation, Nutrient Content and Uptake of Albizia procera. R. b. Yogesh Kumar.pdf','',1,'The present study was carried out to investigate the effect of different levels of nitrogen (N) alone and nitrogen in combination with Rhizobium inoculation (R) on root nodulation, N content and N uptake by Albizia procera seedlings under variable environmental conditions. The experiment was conducted in polythene bags with eighteen treatment combinations, comprising of six levels of fertilizer viz., 0 mg N, 25 mg N, 50 mg N, 0.50 ml R, 25 mg N + 0.5 ml R and 50 mg N + 0.5 ml R per seedling, respectively and three distinct growing environments (E) viz., open, net house and poly house, respectively. The maximum number of nodule per plant (67.00), nodule diameter (3.72 mm) and fresh weight of nodule per plant (1.53 g) at 90 DAT were observed under the interaction of 0 mg N per kg of soil and seedlings kept in the Net house. However, maximum N content in both shoot (1.54%) and root (0.53%) were observed in 25 mg N kg-1 soil + 0.5 ml Rhizobium kg-1 soil in Net house condition. Whereas maxi','Nitrogen, Rhizobium, Growing environment, Nodulation, Nutrient uptake and content.','The maximum number of nodules per plant, maximum nodule diameter per plant and also the maximum yield of nodules per plant i.e. maximum fresh weight of nodules per plant (g) were observed under the interaction of N1 (Control- Tap water) and E2- Net house (75% Green shed net). Higher nutrient (N) content in both shoot and root was recorded in treatment N5 (N-25 mg kg-1 soil+ Bio-fertilizer 0.5 ml kg-1 soil) in conjunction with E2- Net house (75% Green shed net). Whereas; maximum N uptake by the plant was observed in treatment N6 (N-50 mg kg-1 soil + Bio-fertilizer 0.5 ml kg-1 soil) kept under E2- Net house (75% Green shed net). It is also concluded that nitrogen affects nodulation at the initial stage of A. procera seedling. Rhizobium + N treatments increased the nutrient status. Therefore, this combination can be used for quality seedling production of A. procera.','-','Yogesh Kumar, V.M. Prajapati, M.B. Tandel, Govind, J.G. Pathak, M.R. Parmar and Aditya Pratap Singh (2022). Effect of Nitrogen, Rhizobium and Growing Environments on Nodulation, Nutrient Content and uptake of Albizia procera. R. b.. Biological Forum â€“ A'),(3721,'112','Yield and Nutrient Uptake Influenced by Conservation Agriculture Practices in Rice-Winter Maize Cropping System','B.L. Dudwal*, T.K. Das and A.R. Sharma','96 Yield and Nutrient Uptake Influenced by Conservation Agriculture Practices in Rice-Winter Maize Cropping System B.L. Dudwal.pdf','',1,'The studies were undertaken at the research farm of Indian Agricultural Research Institute, New Delhi in kharif and rabi season on a fixed site to assess the effect of conservation agriculture practices on yields and nurient uptake by crops in rice (Oryza sativa L.) â€“ winter maize (Zea mays L.) cropping system. Direct seeding under unpuddled condition, transplanting under puddled condition, brown manuring and mungbean residue incorporation before sowing of direct-seeded rice were practiced in rice, while zero-till sowing, conventional till sowing and rice residue application with zero-till maize were tested in maize crop. During first year nutrient uptake under transplanted rice (TPR) was significantly higher than the rest of the treatments. In second year, rice grown after maize and the treatments where rice residue was applied in previous season maize crop and mungbean residue incorporation showed comparable N, P and K uptake with the TPR treatments. The highest values for N, P and','Direct-seeded rice, Winter maize Nutrient uptake, Brown manuring, Zero-tillage, Productivity. ','This study indicates that transplanted rice gave significantly higher yield (5.37 t ha-1) and uptake of major nutrients in initial year than direct seeded rice. However, in second year, treatment mungbean residue incorporation plus direct seeded rice followed by zerotill maize plus rice residue (MBR+DSR-ZTM+RR-MB) uptake comparable major nutrients and gave grain yield of 5.04 t ha-1. Tillage affect the nutrient uptake and productivity of maize during both the years and different residue management practices could not bring out significant difference in nutrient uptake and maize productivity in starting year. Among residue management treatments, higher nutrient uptake and yield of maize (3.62 t ha-1) was recorded with the incorporation of mungbean residue in rice, followed by zero-till maize with rice residues (MBR+DSR-ZTM+RR-MB) in second year of study. ','-','B.L. Dudwal, T.K. Das and A.R. Sharma (2022). Yield and Nutrient Uptake Influenced by Conservation Agriculture Practices in Rice-Winter Maize Cropping System. Biological Forum â€“ An International Journal, 14(1): 554-559.'),(3722,'112','Evaluation of Growth Performance and Biomass Yield of Oat (Avena sativa L.) and Lucerne (Medicago sativa L.) in Intercropping','S.D. Ninama*, J.C. Shroff , S.N. Shah and M.K. Rathwa','97 Evaluation of Growth Performance and Biomass Yield of Oat _Avena sativa L._ and Lucerne _Medicago sativa L._ in Intercropping S.D. Ninama.pdf','',1,'A field experiment was conducted during rabi 2018-19 to study the growth and yield performance of Oat and Lucerne intercropping systems at Agronomy Farm, B. A. College of Agriculture, Anand Agricultural University, Anand. The study aimed to compare the productivity of Oat + Lucerne intercropping system with sole crops; and also to figure out most economical planting ratio for growing Oat and Lucerne in intercropping system. The experimental soil was loamy sand with good drainage and moisture retention capacity. Altogether, eight treatments comprising combinations of Oat + Lucerne with varied row ratios; along with sole Oat and Lucerne treatments were laid down in randomized block design replicated four times. The results showed that row ratio of 2:1(Oat + Lucerne) was suitable for attaining better plant growth, yield, Oat equivalent yield, land equivalent ratio and BCR. However, sole cropping of Oat and Lucerne was equally effective in producing higher number of tillers and increased y','Intercropping, Land equivalent ratio, Oat equivalent yield and Net returns.','By looking at the current population of livestock, the forage and fodder availability is likely to be declined somewhat at some extent. The above research on forage intercropping was carried out by looking this scenario to full fill the requirement. The intercropping of oat and Lucerne with 2:1 row ratio found suitable for attaining better plant growth, yield, oat equivalent yield, land equivalent ratio and BCR. However, sole cropping of oat and Lucerne was also found equally effective in all those parameters.','-','S.D. Ninama, J.C. Shroff , S.N. Shah and M.K. Rathwa (2022). Evaluation of Growth Performance and Biomass Yield of Oat (Avena sativa L.) and Lucerne (Medicago sativa L.) in Intercropping. Biological Forum â€“ An International Journal, 14(1): 560-564.'),(3723,'112','Effect of Tillage and Integrated Nutrient Management on Yield and Nutrient Uptake in Groundnut (Arachis hypogaea L.)','Tanuja Poonia*, Sheilendra Kumar and S.M. Kumawat','98 Effect of Tillage and Integrated Nutrient Management on Yield and Nutrient Uptake in Groundnut _Arachis hypogaea L._ Tanuja Poonia.pdf','',1,'The resource degradation in arid region is much faster than other ecosystem due to aberrant climatic conditions and anthropogenic activities. Agricultural productivity in the arid regions is very low and it is further intensified with the inappropriate crop management practices. Therefore, a two year study was conducted to evaluate the efficient tillage and nutrient management practices and their influence on crop yield and nutrient uptake in groundnut. The treatment comprises combinations of three tillage practices in main plots and six fertilizer management options in sub plots. Total of 18 treatment combinations were laid out in split plot design and replicated four times. Deep tillage produced significantly higher yield and yield attributes as compared to minimum tillage and also recorded higher nutrient uptake compared to minimum tillage. Among nutrient management options RDF along with seed inoculation with PSB and AMF recorded significantly higher attributes of yield and pod yie','Biofertilizer, groundnut, nutrient uptake, tillage, yield.','Results of the present study revealed the positive effects of deep tillage on pod yield, nutrient uptake in groundnut compared to minimum tillage. Seed inoculation with PSB and AMF in combination with RDF recorded the maximum pod yield over rest of the nutrient management practices. Thus, to maximize the groundnut dry matter, number of pods per plant, pod yield, nutrient uptake, deep tillage along with RDF and bio fertilizers can recommended to the growers in the arid climate of Thar desert.','-','Tanuja Poonia, Sheilendra Kumar and S.M. Kumawat (2022). Effect of Tillage and Integrated Nutrient Management on Yield and Nutrient Uptake in Groundnut (Arachis hypogaea L.). Biological Forum â€“ An International Journal, 14(1): 565-570.'),(3724,'112','Microbial Inoculants and Split Application of Vermicompost Enhance Nutrient Content and Economics of Wheat (Triticum aestivum L.) on typic Haplustepts of Rajasthan','Sushila Aechra*, R.H. Meena, Abhitej Singh Shekhawat, Hemraj Jat, Kiran Doodhwal and Lali Jat','99 Microbial Inoculants and Split Application of Vermicompost Enhance Nutrient Content and Economics of Wheat _Triticum aestivum L._ on typic Haplustepts of Rajasthan Sushila Aechra.pdf','',1,'The assumption underlying this study has been that application of microbial inoculants and vermicompost can help to meet requirement of plant nutrients. This experiment was validating in field experiment carried out on clay loam soil in Rabi seasons on same site during 2017-18 and 2018-19 at the Agronomy Farm of RCA, Udaipur, Rajasthan. Two factors were included in this experiment i.e. five levels of microbial inoculants and four levels of vermicompost. In this study nutrient content in grain and straw of wheat were evaluated. The results show that highest nutrients (N, P, K, Fe, Mn, Zn and Cu) content in grain and straw of wheat were recorded with Azotobacter +PSB + KMB + ZnSB. The application of treatment Azotobacter + PSB + KMB + ZnSB produced the highest net returns 62362.6 ` ha-1 and 72695.5 ` ha-1 of wheat. In case of vermicompost, nutrients contents (N, P, K, Fe, Mn, Zn and Cu) in grain and straw of wheat were significantly higher under the treatment receiving 50% VC at sowing ','Microbial inoculants, PSB, vermicompost, wheat, yield.','It may be concluded that application of microbial inoculants Azotobacter + PSB + KMB + ZnSB along with vermicompost as 50 % at sowing + 50 % at tillering find out significance on nutrient content and economics of wheat. From the current study it was obtained that microbial inoculants (Azotobacter+PSB+KMB+ZnSB) + two split dose of vermicompost (50 % at sowing+50% at tillering) give the best result. ','-','Sushila Aechra, R.H. Meena, Abhitej Singh Shekhawat, Hemraj Jat, Kiran Doodhwal and Lali Jat (2022). Microbial Inoculants and Split Application of Vermicompost Enhance Nutrient Content and Economics of Wheat (Triticum aestivum L.) on typic Haplustepts of '),(3725,'112','Gamma Irradiation Effect on Leaf Gas Exchange and Hormones of Sweet Orange Cv. Mosambi','Kuldeep Singh*, O. Pawasthi, Suchitra Pushkar, Sunil Kumar, Thievenai M. and Kaluram','100 Gamma Irradiation Effect on Leaf Gas Exchange and Hormones of Sweet Orange Cv. Mosambi Kuldeep Singh.pdf','',1,'In the present study, the induced variation in respect to leaf gas exchange and phytohormone parameters were studied in the pre-bearing mutants of sweet orange cv. Mosambi. These mutants were developed through different doses (10, 15, 20, 25, 30 and 35 Gy) of gamma irradiation. A stimulatory and inhibitory effect in respect to the leaf gas exchange parameters was noticed in the mutants developed at lower and higher doses of gamma irradiation respectively. The mutants GS-32 and GS-31 developed from 35 Gy had shown reduction in the A by -41.35% and -31.37% respectively. Ewas witnessed lower in mutants GS-24 (-32.12%) and GS-33 (-27.97%) developed at 25 and 35 Gy respectively. Similar trend was observed to follow in case of gs and Ci values. The peak IAA and ABA content was assayed in the mutants developed at 25-35 Gy. IAA content in leaf tissue was varied between 91.3 ng g-1 in GS-32 to 138.3 ng g-1 in mutants developed with the higher dosimetries of 30 and 35 Gy. The ABA level was recor','Î³-rays; mutants; leaf gas exchange IAA and ABA.','Gamma irradiation had shown inhibitory and simulative effect on the mutants. It would thus help in evolving desired mutants for economic traits and subsequent use in future breeding. Besides that, responsible gene for these traits can be identified, and transformed in new genetic backgrounds.','-','Kuldeep Singh, O. Pawasthi, Suchitra Pushkar, Sunil Kumar, Thievenai M. and Kaluram (2022). Gamma Irradiation Effect on Leaf Gas Exchange and Hormones of Sweet Orange Cv. Mosambi. Biological Forum â€“ An International Journal, 14(1): 576-580.'),(3726,'112','Characterization of RILs for Heat Tolerance for Physio-morphological Trait in Bread Wheat (Triticum aestivum L.)','Harpreet Singh*, Om Prakash Yadav, Surbhi Kohli, Deepak Kaushik, Ashok and Kanheya Lal Yadav','101 Characterization of RILs for Heat Tolerance for Physio-morphological Trait in Bread Wheat Triticum aestivum L. Harpreet Singh.pdf','',1,'Wheat (Triticum aestivum L.) as a major cereal grass of Graminae family and genus Triticum, and is the worldâ€™s largest grown cereal crop. Among all abiolic stresses high temperature is an major abiotic stress limiting production of crops in all regions were wheat is grown. Climate change is reported to loss of agricultural production the most, with severe effects of high temperature, challenging researchers toward developing strategies to counter stress. These constraints to global food supply encourage research for development of heat resistant genotypes, which are resilient to climate change. In this research we use RIL population for studying heat stress and in understanding the physiological and morphological mechanism of heat tolerance. In current research a set of 30 bread wheat recombinant inbred lines which were derived from three cross viz. LOK-1 and HUW- 468, LOK 1 and HUW 234 and Raj-4014 and PBN-51, along with two controls namely PBN-51 and HUW-234, were studied using ','RIL, Heat tolerance, Physiological, morphological, genetic variation, PCV, GCV.','Study of GCV and PCV values indicates that characters such as canopy temperature, plant height, flag leaf area and thousand grain weight with high and medium GCV indicating that selection may be effectively based on these characters. Grain yield, tiller per plant and canopy temperature exhibited medium values of heritability with moderate value of genetic advance whereas RWC shows high value of heritability with moderate genetic advance. High value of heritability and high value of genetic gain was reported for flag leaf area. Chlorophyll content showed high value for PBN-51 followed by cross 2 RIL 15, Cross 3 RIL 23 and Cross 3 RIL 24, with nearly same values showing low chloroplast damage due to high temperature.\r\nFor relative water content Cross 1RIL 2 showed high value followed by Cross 1 RIL 4, Cross 3 RIL 29 showing better water status under dehydration Some important result can be established from the present study that tillers per plant, chlorophyll content, number of tillers','-','Harpreet Singh, Om Prakash Yadav, Surbhi Kohli, Deepak Kaushik, Ashok and Kanheya Lal Yadav (2022). Characterization of RILs for Heat Tolerance for Physio-morphological Trait in Bread Wheat (Triticum aestivum L.). Biological Forum â€“ An International J'),(3727,'112','Information Seeking Behaviour of Farmers through Mobile: An Innovative ICT Tool','Gyan Shukla*, M.N. Ansari, Sudhanand Prasad Lal and Mallela Bandhavya','102 Information Seeking Behaviour of Farmers through Mobile An Innovative ICT Tool Gyan Shukla.pdf','',1,'In the present era of information centricity, mobile phones (ICT tools) might be pretty helpful for farmers to fetch real-time need-based information. An ex-post-facto study, conducted in the purposively selected Sitapur district of Uttar Pradesh, explores the relationship between farmersâ€™ socio-personal characteristics and ISB through mobile. Two blocks from the district, three villages from each block and 15 respondents from each village (total of 90 respondents) were selected randomly. Data were collected by personally interviewing the respondents with the help of a semi-structured interview schedule. Multivariate linear regression analysis method was used. Most of the respondents found medium level of ISB through mobile. Regression analysis found significant for variables like education, social participation and annual family income at 1%, mass media exposure and extension contact at 5% and sources of credit at 10%. Standardised beta value explores the size of effect over depende','Innovation, Information seeking behaviour, ICT, mass media exposure, mobile phone.','Farmers admitted that the android cell phone could be a landmark in filling the information gap among the stakeholders. Features like portability wireless connectivity make this very special. In this study, farmers\' information-seeking behaviour through mobile was measured and found that the majority (57.58%) of the respondentsâ€™ mobile phones were installed an average number of mobile features and applications in their cell phones. More than half (64.66%) of the respondents occasionally used accessible applications on their mobile phones. The present study observed that more than two-thirds (68.89%) of respondents perceived significant importance of such information sources. This investigation also found that 57.78% of respondents were moderately satisfied with the information obtained by these sources. In a nutshell, 71.11% of farmers had a medium level of information-seeking behaviour. The remaining 16.67% had a higher level, and 12.22% of farmers came under low information-seeking','-','Gyan Shukla, M.N. Ansari, Sudhanand Prasad Lal and Mallela Bandhavya (2022). Information Seeking Behaviour of Farmers through Mobile: An Innovative ICT Tool. Biological Forum â€“ An International Journal, 14(1): 586-590.'),(3728,'112','Assessment of Air Pollution Tolerance Index of Indoor Plants in Sub-tropical Climate','Dinesh Kumar*, Suman Bhatia, Y.C. Gupta, S.K. Bhardwaj and Alka','103 Assessment of Air Pollution Tolerance Index of Indoor Plants in Sub-tropical Climate Dinesh Kumar.pdf','',1,'The present investigation was conducted during 2017-2018 to assess the air pollution tolerance index of indoor plants commonly grown in subtropical climate. The study was carried out to determine the air pollution tolerance of indoor plants and use in urban indoor landscaping. In this study,30 flowering and foliage indoor plants were selected and the air pollution tolerance index (APTI) was assessed in which various bio-chemical parameters such as total chlorophyll content, leaf extract pH, relative water content and ascorbic acid content were estimated using CRD design. Maximum APTI value was found in Aglaonema modestum (9.18) followed by Scindapsus aureus (9.16), Chlorophytum comosum (9.14), Nephrolepis exaltata (9.054) and Kalanchoe blossfeldiana (8.967). Results concluded that Aglaonema modestum, Scindapsus aureus, Chlorophytum comosum, Nephrolepis exaltata and Kalanchoe blossfeldiana were found best to tolerate air pollution on the basis of APTI and these plants can be used in ind','Air pollution tolerance index, indoor plants, urban landscape, indoor pollution.','From the present findings, Aglaonema modestum, Scindapsus aureus, Chlorophytum comosum, Nephrolepis exaltata and Kalanchoe blossfeldiana were found best indoor plants to tolerate air pollution and can be recommended for urban area having high pollution levels.','-','Dinesh Kumar, Suman Bhatia, Y.C. Gupta, S.K. Bhardwaj and Alka (2022). Assessment of Air Pollution Tolerance Index of Indoor Plants in Sub-tropical Climate. Biological Forum â€“ An International Journal, 14(1): 591-594.'),(3729,'112','Genetic Variability and Correlation Studies on Yield and Yield-Related Traits in Rice (Oryza sativa L.) and their Implications in Selection','Kavyashree N.M., J.R. Diwan*, Mahantashivayogayya K., Lokesha R. and Nagaraj M. Naik','104 Genetic Variability and Correlation Studies on Yield and Yield-Related Traits in Rice _Oryza sativa L._ and their Implications in Selection Kavyashree N.M.pdf','',1,'Rice being a self pollinated crop suffers from reduced genetic diversity. The low heritability of yield trait is yet another problem in breeding which demands indirect selection via componental traits for its improvement. In this context, study of genetic variability and correlation forms the vital part of rice breeding programs. Twenty four rice genotypes including four popular checks were evaluated in a randomized complete block design with three replications, at Agricultural Research Station Gangavati, University of Agricultural Sciences Raichur, India. The experiment was carried out in Kharif 2018 to study the genetic variability and correlation between yield and yield attributing traits of rice crop. The analysis of variance indicated the presence of significant variability between the genotypes. The higher estimates of genetic parameters viz., Vp and PCV as compared to the respective Vg and GCV revealed the influence of environment in the trait expression for all the characters s','Rice; Grain yield per plant; Yield attributing traits; Genetic variability; Correlation.','The Analysis of Variance (ANOVA) indicated the presence of significant differences among the 24 genotypes for all the studied traits. The genetic variability analyses also revealed that the material used in this study possessed significant variability in terms of yield and yield-related attributes, providing a suitable platform to carryout selection by the breeder. Correlation study between the yield and its component characters found that the genotypic correlation coefficients were greater than the phenotypic correlation coefficients in most situations, indicating that the relationship is mostly attributable to genetic factors. In several situations, the phenotypic correlation coefficients were greater than the genotypic correlation coefficients, indicating the significant role of environment in governing the expression of these traits. The strong positive genotypic correlation of grain yield per plant with other yield-related traits like the number of effective tillers per plant, le','-','Kavyashree N.M., J.R. Diwan, Mahantashivayogayya K., Lokesha R. and Nagaraj M. Naik (2022). Genetic Variability and Correlation Studies on Yield and Yield-Related Traits in Rice (Oryza sativa L.) and their Implications in Selection. Biological Forum â€“ A'),(3730,'112','Encapsulation of Anthocyanin from Jamun Pomace Extract and its Storage Stability','Aparna Panda, Minati Mohapatra*, R.N. Nayak, Indrajeet Sahu and M.K. Panda','105 Encapsulation of Anthocyanin from Jamun Pomace Extract and its Storage Stability Minati Mohapatra.pdf','',1,'Jamun (Syzygium cumini), commonly known as Indian blackberry contains many natural bio-active compounds e.g. vitamin C, anthocyanin, tannins, ellagitannins, ellagic acid, galloyl-galactoside and gallic acid. In the present study, extraction of anthocyanins from jamun pomace powder were carried out with solid to solution ratio of 1:15 at temperature 45Â°C for 90min using two types of solvents i.e. aqueous and ethanol (%). Purification of anthocyanin in the extracted juice was done using chitosan. The extracts were encapsulated using different combination of sodium alginate as coating material (1.0, 2.0, 3.0 % W/V) and calcium chloride as hardening material (1, 5, 10% W/V) following liquid suspension method and evaluated in terms of encapsulation efficiency, moisture content and bulk density. The stability of anthocyanin in encapsulated material was studied during storage in different conditions of dark and light, temperature: 30Â±2Â°C and 4Â±2Â°C, PET and glass containers. The ethanolic','Jamun pomace, solvent extraction, encapsulation, anthocyanins, stability to light, temperature etc.','The ethanolic (50% v/v) extract showed higher amount of anthocyanin content (290.01Â±02mg/100g), TPC (52.8Â±0.26mg GAE/100ml extract), antioxidant activity (54.56Â±0.54) in jamun pomace extract. Extraction yield of ethanolic extract for both pomace (16.8Â±0.34%) was found to be more as compared to the aqueous extract. The FT-IR analysis showed that ethanolic extract recovered more no of functional groups in comparison to the aqueous extract. 3% sodium alginate and 5% calcium chloride gave the best encapsulation efficiency (75.93Â±0.61), moisture content (3.381Â±0.061) and bulk density (0.243Â±0.035) as compared to other combinations. The maximum anthocyanin content (mg/g) 1.95Â±0.024, total phenolic content (mg GAE/g) 0.42Â±0.015 and less change in characteristics L value of colour (17.9Â±0.35) was observed in refrigerated storage, glass container and in dark condition (4Â°C + glass + dark) of storage. The net change in colour (âˆ†E) values in all the storage conditions were almost sam','-','Aparna Panda, Minati Mohapatra, R.N. Nayak, Indrajeet Sahu and M.K. Panda (2022). Encapsulation of Anthocyanin from Jamun Pomace Extract and its Storage Stability. Biological Forum â€“ An International Journal, 14(1): 601-607.'),(3731,'112','Effect of Foliar Application of Organics and Fertilizers on Growth Yield and Economics of Cluster Bean (Cyamopsis tetragonoloba L. Taub.)','Akshika Bhawariya, N.K. Pareek*, Shankar Lal Sunda, Shri Rakesh and Bhavna Singh Rathore','106 Effect of Foliar Application of Organics and Fertilizers on Growth Yield and Economics of Cluster Bean _Cyamopsis tetragonoloba L. Taub._ N.K. Pareek.pdf','',1,'For optimal plant growth, nutrients must be present in appropriate and balanced amounts. Natural reserved plant nutrients in soil are mainly unavailable to plants. The rate of release of nutrients is insufficient to compensate for the depletion of nutrients required for crop. During the reproductive stage, root activity decreases, and more nutrients are required at the same time. Foliar spraying with nutrient solution is an alternate source of nutrients. A field experiment was carried out to study the effect of foliar applied organics and fertilizers on growth and yield of cluster bean (Cyamopsis tetragonoloba L. Taub.) during kharif, 2019 at Instructional Farm, College of Agriculture, Swami Keshwanand Rajasthan Agricultural University, Bikaner. The experiment was laid out in randomized block design with thirteen treatments and three replications. The treatments viz., T1- control, T2- water spray, T3- urea @ 2%, T4- DAP @ 2%, T5- NPK @ 1%, T6- Panchagavya @ 3%, T7- Panchagavya @ 5%, T8','Cluster bean, Jeevamrut, Panchagavya, plant height, dry matter, seed yield and economics','Foliar application of panchagavya @ 3% found to be equally effective to NPK @ 1% in improving growth parameters, yield attributes yield and economics of cluster bean and hence it can be used as an alternate source of nutrients in standing crop of cluster bean in place of chemical fertilizers.','-','Akshika Bhawariya, N.K. Pareek, Shankar Lal Sunda, Shri Rakesh and Bhavna Singh Rathore (2022). Effect of Foliar Application of Organics and Fertilizers on Growth Yield and Economics of Cluster Bean (Cyamopsis tetragonoloba L. Taub.). Biological Forum â€“'),(3732,'107','Effect of Organic Manures on Chemical Profile of Essential Oil of Artemisia annua L. cv. CIM Arogya Cultivated in Tarai Region of Uttarakhand','Monika Yashpal Sajwan, M.S. Negi and P.S. Bisht','208 Effect of Organic Manures on Chemical Profile of Essential oil of Artemisia annua L. cv. CIM Arogya cultivated in Tarai Region of Uttarakhand Monika Yashpal Sajwan.pdf','',1,'In the present study we studied the effect of organic manures on essential oil content (%) and chemical profile of essential oil. GC-MS were used to screening of the chemical composition of the essential oil hydro-distilled from full flowering stage of the new cultivar variety CIM Arogya of Artemisia annua. More than forty compounds were identified, representing 92.5% of the total oil. The main bioactive compounds identified in all the analyzed samples were 1-8 Cineol, Camphor and (3E, 5E)-2, 6- Dimethylcota-3, 5, 7 trien-2-ol in all treatments. Content (%) of bioactive compounds and chemical composition affect by organic manure','Camphor, CIM Arogya, Farm Yard manure, Organic manure, Poultry manure, Vermicompost','','',''),(3733,'112','Estimation of Genotype Ã— Environment interaction for Yield and Yield Contributing Characters in Sesame (Sesamum indicum L.)','Bhagwat Singh* and Y.K. Shukla','107 Estimation of Genotype Ã— Environment interaction for Yield and Yield Contributing Characters in Sesame _Sesamum indicum L._ Bhagwat Singh.pdf','',1,'An investigation was undertaken to study the â€œEstimation of Stability Parameter for Yield and Yield Contributing Characters in Sesame (Sesamum indicum L.)â€ to gather information on different variability parameters, genotype Ã— environment interactions and stability parameters. The experimental material comprised of 60 different Varieties of sesamum. The experiment was conducted in Randomized Complete Block Design with three replications at Project Coordinating Unit (Sesame and Niger) Research Farm, JNKVV, Jabalpur during Kharif 2016 (E1), Summer 2017 (E2), Kharif 2017 (E3) and Summer 2018 (E4). Observations on five randomly selected plants per genotype per replication in each environment were recorded for days to flower initiation, days to 50% flowering, days to maturity, flower petal colour, flower petal hairiness, plant branching pattern, plant branching habit, stem hairiness, leaf lobes, leaf size, leaf serration of margin, capsule shape, capsule arrangement, capsule hairiness,','Sesame, stability, yield components, Genotype Ã— Environment interaction.','Overall results of stability analysis indicates that genotype YLM-11 was found as stable genotypes which exhibited stable performances for more than two characters, while genotypes N-32, SAVITRI, RAMA, RAJESHWARI, RT-351 and GT-1 exhibited above average stability for yield and yield components and therefore, these genotypes were specifically adapted to unfavorable environmental conditions.','-','Bhagwat Singh and Y.K. Shukla (2022). Estimatation of Genotype Ã— Environment interaction for Yield and Yield Contributing Characters in Sesame (Sesamum indicum L.). Biological Forum â€“ An International Journal, 14(1): 614-622.'),(3734,'112','Impact of Yield, Yield Gap and Economics of Cluster Front-line Demonstration on Green Gram (Vigna radiata L.) in Sirohi, Rajasthan','Aabha Parashar*, M.S. Chandawat, Kamini Parashar, R.P.S. Jetawat and Ankita Sharma','108 Impact of Yield, Yield Gap and Economics of Cluster Front-line Demonstration on Green Gram Vigna radiata L. in Sirohi, Rajasthan Aabha Parashar.pdf','',1,'The study aimed at assessing the performance of cluster frontline demonstration in terms of yield, technology gap, extension gap, technology index and economics analysis in green gram during Kharif 2018-19, 2019-20 and 2020-21 in Sirohi district with evaluating the performance of GAM-5 and GM-6 variety with all essential technical inputs. The result showed that average grain yield under demonstration were 5.41, 6.56 and 7.04 qha-1 as compare to 3.87, 4.78 and 4.92 qha-1 recorded in farmerâ€™s practice. Average yield increases of 39.79, 37.24 and 43.09 per cent, and additional return of 13945, 12548- and 15255-rupees ha-1, respectively. Therefore, the results revealed that new varieties and improved package and practices with scientific intervention under cluster frontline demonstration programme remarkable increase the area, production and productivity of Green gram in Rajasthan by reducing the technology gap.','Frontline demonstration, Greengram, Extension gap, Technology index.','The assessment of above study revealed that Integrated crop management of green gram gave higher yield and net returns in recommended practice than farmers practice in all blockâ€™s Sirohi district. Economic analysis on given parameters also showed that gross return, net returns and additional return were recorded higher in cluster front line demonstration, which entails that the cluster front line demonstration is an effective tool for enhance the area, production and productivity of pulses and changing the knowledge and skill of farmers. Hence, these improved technologies needs to be disseminate for wider adoption among the farmers in their respective agroclimatic system.','-','Aabha Parashar, M.S. Chandawat, Kamini Parashar, R.P.S. Jetawat and Ankita Sharma (2022). Impact of Yield, Yield Gap and Economics of Cluster Front-line Demonstration on Green Gram (Vigna radiata L.) in Sirohi, Rajasthan. Biological Forum â€“ An Internat'),(3735,'112','Study of Seed Protein Profiling of Cucumber (Cucumis sativus L.) Genotype using SDS-PAGE for Determination of Genetic Relationship','Shashank Shekhar Singh* and Khushboo Kathayat','109 Study of Seed Protein Profiling of Cucumber _Cucumis sativus L._ Genotype using SDS-PAGE for Determination of Genetic Relationship Shashank Shekhar Singh.pdf','',1,'A quantitative categorization of seed storage protein profile of 25 genotypes of Cucumis sativus L. was performed by Sodium Dodecyl Sulphate Polyacrylamide Gel Electrophoresis (SDS-PAGE). The banding patterns were characterized by 3 clear district zones i.e. Zone A, Zone B and Zone C. Zone A has 9 bands, zone B has 10 bands and zone C included 8 bands. Maximum number of bands were observed in NDCUC-106 (9 bands) followed by NDCUC-160 (8 bands) whereas, minimum bands were shown by PPC-2, PPC-3, Pant Khira-1 and NDCUC-73 i.e. 1bands. The unweight pair group method using arithmetic average (UPGMA) analysis of 25 cucumber genotype was done and two major cluster obtained through seed protein analysis expressed better grouping of genotypes.','Cluster analysis, Germplasm, SDS-PAGE, Cucumis sativus L., Cucumber.','Protein profiling is an effective method for identification of genetic diversity, combining biochemical approaches with molecular approaches would help plant breeder to understand the diversity/ variance among plants so it is concluded from the study that NDCUC-16 and NDCUC-16 and NDCUC-14 are most diverse among all genotypes and may be further utilized as potential source in cucumber breeding programme for the successful varietal development.','-','Shashank Shekhar Singh and Khushboo Kathayat (2022). Study of Seed Protein Profiling of Cucumber (Cucumis sativus L.) Genotype using SDS-PAGE for Determination of Genetic Relationship. Biological Forum â€“ An International Journal, 14(1): 627-631.'),(3736,'112','Annual and Seasonal Trend Analysis of Rainfall and Temperature Pattern in Arpa Catchment, Chhattisgarh','Shruti Verma*, Dhiraj Khalkho, M.P. Tripathi and Amit Raj','110 Annual and Seasonal Trend Analysis of Rainfall and Temperature Pattern in Arpa Catchment, Chhattisgarh Shruti Verma.pdf','',1,'Changes in precipitation occur due to global or local climate changes. Climate change has a major impact on precipitation patterns. Changes in rainfall as a result of global warming will have an impact on the hydrological cycle, stream flow patterns, and demand (especially in agriculture). This study examines the trends in seasonal and annual rainfall, minimum temperature and maximum temperature (Tmin and Tmax) using the Mannâ€“Kendall (MK) test and Senâ€™s slope (SS) method. Four rainfall and temperature stations located inside and near the study area were taken. Trend analysis was conceded out on seasonal and annual basis considering four seasons i.e. winter, summer, south west monsoon (SWM) and north east monsoon (NEM). Trend test for precipitation showed that increasing trend for all four stations (Ghatora, Andhiyarkore, Jondhra and Pendra) and for all season except Ghatora station in south west monsoon (SWM) showed decreasing trend. The annual trend of precipitation also shows inc','Rainfall, Maximum temperature, Minimum temperature, Mann-Kendall test, Senâ€™s Slope Estimates and Trend Analysis.','In the Mann-Kendall non-parametric test, the Zc statistics shown the trend of the series for 35 years (1985-2020) for seasonally and annually basis. Magnitude of seasonal precipitation data estimated in seasonally time steps the peak value for the slope of precipitation (8.02 mm/year) trend line was found in Andhiyarkore station in south west monsoon (SWM) and lowest value for the slope of rainfall (-10.45 mm/year) trend line was found in SWM in Ghatora station. In annual time steps the peak value for the slope of precipitation (8.19 mm/year) trend line was found in Ghatora station. Magnitude of minimum temperature data estimated in annually time steps the highest value for the slope of temperature (0.049Â°C/year) trend line was found in Ghatora station and lowermost value for the slope of temperature (-0.019Â°C/year) trend line was found in Pendra station. Magnitude of maximum temperature data estimated in annually time steps the lowermost value for the slope of temperature (-0.075Â°C','-','Shruti Verma, Dhiraj Khalkho, M.P. Tripathi and Amit Raj (2022) Annual and Seasonal Trend Analysis of Rainfall and Temperature Pattern in Arpa Catchment, Chhattisgarh. Biological Forum â€“ An International Journal, 14(1): 632-636.'),(3737,'112','Effect of Soil and Foliar Application of Zn and Fe on Soil Fertility after Harvest of Maize','Hemraj Jat, K.K. Yadav and D.P. Singh','111 Effect of Soil and Foliar Application of Zn and Fe on Soil Fertility after Harvest of Maize Hemraj Jat.pdf','',1,'A field trial was directed at Instructional Farm, Rajasthan College of Agriculture, Udaipur, in two consecutive Kharif seasons of 2018 and 2019. The experiment laid out under split plot design with three replications included 7 levels of soil application (control, 12.5 kg ZnSO4 ha-1, 25 kg ZnSO4 ha-1, 12.5 kg FeSO4 ha-1, 25 kg FeSO4 ha-1, 12.5 kg ZnSO4 ha-1 + 12.5 kg FeSO4 ha-1 and 25 kg ZnSO4 ha-1 + 25 kg FeSO4 ha-1) in main plots whereas four level of foliar spray (control, 0.5% ZnSO4 ha-1, 0.5% FeSO4 ha-1 and 0.5% ZnSO4 ha-1 + 0.5% FeSO4 ha-1) in sub plot. The major challenge of was that how supply the balance diet to rural people and mitigate the problem of micronutrient deficiency in soil. Soil and foliar utilization of zinc and iron didn\'t give any significant effect on soil\'s physical and chemical properties. Soil pH, EC, organic carbon, CEC, WHC, particle density, bulk density as well as porosity were non significant with soil and foliar utilization of zinc and iron. In contra','Zinc, Iron, Physical and chemical properties, Soil and foliar application.','The result concluded that soil and foliar application of zinc and ferrous significantly increase the N, P, K, Zn and Fe concentration in soil. Still, there was on significant effect on other physical and chemical properties of soil.','-','Hemraj Jat, K.K. Yadav and D.P. Singh (2022). Effect of Soil and Foliar Application of Zn and Fe on Soil Fertility after Harvest of Maize. Biological Forum â€“ An International Journal, 14(1): 637-640.'),(3738,'112','Study of Yield, Nutrient Content and Uptake of Fenugreek as Influenced by Phosphorous and Zinc Fertilization','Sanju Kumawat* and Ganesh Narayan Yadav','112 Study of Yield, Nutrient Content and Uptake of Fenugreek as Influenced by Phosphorous and Zinc Fertilization Sanju Kumawat.pdf','',1,'Phosphorus (P) and zinc (Zn) are essential nutrients for plant growth, and due to high intensive agricultural production, their deficiency in soils and the antagonistic interaction between P and Zn are important concerns world-wide. Thus, the present experiment was laid out at research farm of Rajasthan Agriculture Research Institute, Durgapura, in split plot design during rainy seasons of 2015-16 and 2016-17 which was replicated three times to study the growth, productivity and economics of fenugreek - pearl millet cropping system. There were four levels of phosphorus (0, 20, 40 and 60 kg P2O5/ha /ha) and six treatments of zinc and zinc solubilizer [0, 2.5 and 5.0 kg Zn/ha, zinc solubilizer (Bacillus endophyticus), 2.5 kg Zn/ha + zinc solubilizer & 5 kg Zn/ha + zinc solubilizer) tested on fenugreek crop. The results were found as the highest total nitrogen and potassium contents and uptake by fenugreek were recorded with 40 kg P2O5/ha while, phosphorus content was up to 60 kg P2O5/ha ','Fenugreek, Nutrient content and uptake, phosphorus, yield, zinc and zinc solubilizer. ','On the basis of this study it is concluded that the highest nutrient content and uptake of fenugreek crop was observed under 60 kg P2O5/ha and 5 kg Zn/ha + zinc solublizer, while decreasing trend was recorded with phosphorous and zinc contents with increasing level of these nutrients. P and Zn fertilization could be a sustainable approach for obtaining better crop yield particularly under arid regions of Western India. Further, their interaction effect and different kinds of Zn solubilizer could be evaluated with diverse cropping system and moisture regime under different land use.','-','Sanju Kumawat and Ganesh Narayan Yadav (2022). Study of Yield, Nutrient Content and Uptake of Fenugreek as Influenced by Phosphorous and Zinc Fertilization. Biological Forum â€“ An International Journal, 14(1): 641-645.'),(3739,'112','Effect of various Stimulants on Growth, Leaf analysis and Economics of Chrysanthemum','Alka*, Dipal S. Bhatt, Monu Kumari, Suchitra and Bambhaniya Kinjal','113 Effect of various Stimulants on Growth, Leaf analysis and Economics of Chrysanthemum Alka 1926.pdf','',1,'The experiment was laid out at Floriculture Research Farm, ACH&F, Navsari Agricultural University, Navsari during 2019-20. The experiment was carried out in Randomized Blocked Design with three replication and twelve treatments viz.T1 = FeSO4 0.5 %, T2 = ZnSO4 0.5 %, T3 = NAA 20 ppm + Urea 2%, T4 = FeSO4 ( 0.5 %) + ZnSO4 (0.5 %) + NAA ( 20 ppm), T5 = Nauroji Novel Organic liquid nutrient 1 %, T6 = Nauroji Novel Organic liquid nutrient 2 %, T7 = Panchgavya 0.5 %, T8 = Panchgavya 1.0 %, T9 = Humic acid 0.25 %, T10 = Humic acid 0.5 %, T11 = Water spray, T12 = No spray (control). Among these treatments foliar application of 0.5% FeSO4 + 0.5% ZnSO4 + 20 ppm NAA to chrysanthemum plants significantly increased maximum plant height 28.83 cm and 34.26 cm, plant spread at N-S direction (27.18 and 30.29 cm) and E-W direction (27.46 cm and 29.48 cm) and highest number of branches per plant (6.93 and 8.53) at 60 and 75 days, respectively. Looking to the economics of present investigation, higher','Foliar application, stimulants and panchgavya.','Related on the findings of present investigation, it can be obtained that foliar application of 0.5% FeSO4 + 0.5% ZnSO4 + 20 ppm NAA at 30, 45 and 60 DATP gave maximum vegetative growth and maximum iron, zinc and chlorophyll content in leaves. While on the basis of economics foliar application of 1.0 % Panchgavya as per above gave better response to highest BCR (3.00) along with fetching better price and get higher net returns (Rs. 365982).','-','Alka, Dipal S. Bhatt, Monu Kumari, Suchitra and Bambhaniya Kinjal (2022). Effect of various Stimulants on Growth, Leaf analysis and Economics of Chrysanthemum. Biological Forum â€“ An International Journal, 14(1): 646-650.'),(3740,'112','Effect of different Fertility Levels on Yield, Nutrient Content and Uptake and Economics of Fodder Pearlmillet (Pennisetum glaucum L.) Cultivars under Arid Region','Sundar Anchra*, R.C. Bairwa, Mahendra Kumar Rojh and Shri Rakesh','114 Effect of Different Fertility Levels on Yield, Nutrient Content and Uptake and Economics of Fodder Pearlmillet _Pennisetum glaucum L._ Cultivars under Arid Region Sundar Anchra.pdf','',1,'Animal nutrition is main factor for livestock production. Due to the decrease in the availability of green fodder in the arid region, there is a continuous decrease in the livestock. Therefore, an experiment was conducted on fodder pearl millet crop during kharif season of 2018 at Instructional Farm, College of Agriculture, Swami Keshwanand Rajasthan Agricultural University, Bikaner Rajasthan. The treatments consisted of four fertility levels [0, 40, 80 and 120 kg N ha-1] and three varieties [Raj bajra -1, Raj- 171 and Local]. The experiment was laid out in factorial randomized block design with three replications. The productivity of crops was evaluated in terms of green and dry fodder yield and the nutrient content and uptake by crop at both cutting stages. Results revealed that total green fodder, dry matter yield and nutrient content and uptake by crop at both cutting stages were higher in variety Raj bajra -1 as compared to Raj 171 and Local variety. Among nutrient management, tre','Dry fodder yield, green fodder yield, nutrient management, nutrient uptake.','When 80 kg N and 40 kg P2O5 were applied per hectare, Raj bajra - 1 gave significantly higher green, dry fodder yield and green fodder productivity, with higher content and uptake of N, P, K by fodder.','-','Sundar Anchra, R.C. Bairwa, Mahendra Kumar Rojh and Shri Rakesh (2022). Effect of Different Fertility Levels on Yield, Nutrient Content and Uptake and Economics of Fodder Pearlmillet (Pennisetum glaucum L.) Cultivars under Arid Region. Biological Forum â€'),(3741,'112','Genetic Variability and Heritability Study in Double Cross F3 Lines of Cotton (G. hirsutum L.)','A.K. Meena*, S.S. Patil and L.K. Verma','115 Genetic Variability and Heritability Study in Double Cross F3 Lines of Cotton _G. hirsutum L._ K. Meena.pdf','',1,'In any crop improvement programme, understanding the amount of genetic variability in the population, mechanism of gene action and inheritance of traits is essential for selecting an appropriate breeding methodology. Information on heritability and genetic advance, in addition to genetic variability, evaluate the relative degree to which a trait is transferred to its offspring, allowing the breeder in selecting a suitable breeding approach to meet the objectives. As a result, using genetic variables like genotypic coefficient of variation (GCV), phenotypic coefficient of variation (PCV), heritability (h2), and genetic advance as a percent of mean (GAM). It becomes essential to divide total variability into heritable and non-heritable components. Through the present study, efforts were made to exploit the variability present in segregating generation of cotton. For the study, 80 Double Cross F3 lines from stay green (SG) and high relative growth rate (high RGR) heterotic groups with one','Genetic variability, DCF3 generation, GCV, PCV, heritability, GAM.','The present study revealed that DCF3 lines showed significant genetic variability for the quantitative traits and which aids in the selection and identification of useful transgressive segregants.','-','A.K. Meena, S.S. Patil and L.K. Verma (2022). Genetic Variability and Heritability Study in Double Cross F3 Lines of Cotton (G. hirsutum L.). Biological Forum â€“ An International Journal, 14(1): 656-660.'),(3742,'112','Resource use Efficiency of Various Factors Affecting Productivity of Organic Farming Practice in Bikaner District of Rajasthan','Dropati Saran*, Madhu Sharma and Hemant Sharma','116 Resource use Efficiency of Various Factors Affecting Productivity of Organic Farming Practice in Bikaner District of Rajasthan Rakesh Kumar.pdf','',1,'India has shown interest on the Genetically Modified Crops (GM Crops) like Bacillus Thurungensis (Bt) cotton and also high used of chemical, fertilizer and pesticide etc. which are highly hazardous to the environment. Organic farming has the potential to provide benefits in terms of environmental protection, conservation of non-renewable resources and improved food quality. The fundamental purpose of this paper is to evaluate the economic facets of the small and marginal farmers to speculate solutions on how farmers will manage enhance their income with organic farming. The important reasons which emphasis the need for organic farming in the country are the fact that majority of the farming community is resource poor and purchase of fertilizers and chemicals in adequate quantities is beyond their capacity Bikaner district was selected purposively as it has large area under rainfed farming and mostly fertilizers and pesticides are not being used in this area. To stud','Resource use pattern, Resource use efficiency, Organic farming, Inorganic farming.','The analysis of resource use pattern revealed that no major difference was in utilization of machine labour in per farming various of pertains of organic and inorganic bajra. However, more family labour were employed in production of inorganic bajra crop. In respect of seed quantity, more seed 7.50 kg used in organic bajra against 5.34 kg seed in inorganic bajra crop, but more number (2.61) of irrigation applied in case of inorganic bajra against 1.45 inflation in organic bajra. In case of wheat crop more (6.55) machine hrs. were used in inorganic wheat in comparison of 5.64 to organic wheat. Similarly higher human laboue were utilized cultivation of inorganic wheat in comparison of organic wheat it was (173.430 and (137.72) hrs respectively, but in case of seed more quantity was used in organic wheat crop then inorganic wheat crop. FYM was used by the farmer in both type of farming but about 5 time more organic manure was supplied in the field of organic wheat in comparison of inorgan','-','Dropati Saran, Madhu Sharma and Hemant Sharma (2022). Resource Use Efficiency of Various Factors Affecting Productivity of Organic Farming Practice in Bikaner District of Rajasthan. Biological Forum â€“ An International Journal, 14(1): 661-666.'),(3743,'112','Effect of Long Term Application of Fertilizers and Manures on Organic Matter Fractions at different Depths under Soybean-wheat Sequence in Vertisol','Anupama K.*, N.G. Mitra, B.S. Dwivedi and M. Mohanty','117 Effect of Long Term Application of Fertilizers and Manures on Organic Matter Fractions at different Depths Under Soybean-wheat Sequence in Vertisol Anupama K.pdf','',1,'The study was aimed to enquire the effect of long term application of fertilizers and manures on soil organic matter fractions at different depths under soybean-wheat sequence in vertisol. The experiment was conducted during the year of 2016-17 at Research Farm of Department of Soil Science and Agricultural Chemistry, JNKVV, Jabalpur. Effect on varying doses of N, NP, NPK, NPK with FYM, Zn on organic matter fractions viz., Humic acid, Fulvic acid and Humin after 46 year of soybean-wheat crop sequence was studied. The study includes ten different treatments i.e. 50% NPK, 100% NPK, 150% NPK, 100% NPK+HW, 100% NPK+ Zn, 100% NP, 100% N, 100% NPK+FYM, 100% NPK-S and control. The result obtained from the study revealed that application of 100 % NPK + FYM @ 15t ha-1 to soybean and wheat significantly increased the organic matter fractions in the soil. Combined use of 100% NPK and FYM was significantly superior over all the treatments. It was also observed that the soil organic matter fraction','Long term fertilizer experiment, Humic acid, Fulvic acid, Humin, Vertisol','Long-term fertilizer experiments of more than four decades have shown a build-up in soil organic matter fractions as a result of combined application of organic manures and inorganic fertilizers under soybeanâ€“wheat cropping system. Integrated use of farmyard manure and fertilizers maintained and improved soil organic carbon. The results showed that the treatment 100 % NPK + FYM in soybean-wheat sequence registered significantly higher value of humic acid, fulvic acid & humin content in soil over control during the year 2016 after the harvest of wheat. The continuous addition of organic and inorganic treatments noticed increased organic matter fractions in soil. It is due to better and improved soil physical parameters and conductive environment for its fraction. Thus, NPK + FYM were the best option for increasing organic matter status in soil. Thus the balanced application of NPK fertilizers with FYM was the best option for nutrient management in intensive cropping system to improve ','-','Anupama K., N.G. Mitra, B.S. Dwivedi and M. Mohanty (2022). Effect of Long Term Application of Fertilizers and Manures on Organic Matter Fractions at different Depths Under Soybean-wheat Sequence in Vertisol. Biological Forum â€“ An International Journal,'),(3744,'112','Correlation Assessment for Bulb Yield and its components in Garlic (Allium sativum L.) Genotypes','Kamal Mahala*, O.P. Garhwal, Praveen Choyal, Rajesh Choudhary, Mukesh Chand Bhateshwar and Suman Chahar','118 Correlation Assessment for Bulb Yield and its components in Garlic _Allium sativum L._ Genotypes Kamal Mahala.pdf','',1,'The present investigation was conducted to estimate correlation coefficients analysis among 24 genotypes of garlic for fifteen characters comprised of bulb yield and its contributing characters. These genotypes were planted in Randomized Block Design with three replications during Rabi season, 2019-20 at SKN College of Agriculture, Jobner. The result from correlation coefficients indicated that bulb yield showed significant and positive correlation with bulb weight, clove weight, pyruvic acid, equatorial diameter, leaves per plant, clove girth, cloves per bulb, polar diameter and TSS. Results obtained from the present study based correlation analysis revealed that selection programme based on bulb weight, clove weight, equatorial diameter, clove girth, polar diameter might prove effective in enhancing productivity level in garlic.','Allium sativum, Garlic, Correlation coefficients, Bulb.','The association analysis revealed that bulb yield was positively and significantly correlated with bulb weight, clove weight, equatorial diameter, leaves per plant, clove girth, polar diameter and TSS. Results obtained from the present study based on correlation analysis revealed that selection programme based on bulb weight, clove weight, equatorial diameter, clove girth, polar diameter might prove effective in enhancing productivity level in garlic.','-','Kamal Mahala, O.P. Garhwal, Praveen Choyal, Rajesh Choudhary, Mukesh Chand Bhateshwar and Suman Chahar (2022). Correlation Assessment for Bulb Yield and its Components in Garlic (Allium sativum L.) Genotypes. Biological Forum â€“ An International Journal'),(3745,'112','Reactive Oxygen Species: Boon or Bane','Abhishek Chitranashi*, Ashok Kumar and Shruti Kumari','119 Reactive Oxygen Species Boon or Bane Abhishek Chitranashi.pdf','',1,'Reactive oxygen species are unavoidable consequences of aerobic metabolism which is generated mainly in cellular chloroplast, mitochondria, peroxisome and apoplastic space. ROS are double edged sword of plant life as it not only modifies cellular components and causes cell death but under defined window of ROS concentration it also regulate various plant growth and developmental processes such as cell wall synthesis, pathogen defence, plant senescence, plant cell death and stomatal behaviour. Plant is surfeited with strong enzymatic and non-enzymatic ROS scavenging mechanism which maintains ROS homeostasis in cell and avoid unavoidable toxicity. ROS is constantly produced at baseline levels under favourable settings. They are unable to cause damage, however, since they are scavenged by several antioxidant processes. Stress factors such as salt, drought, harsh temperatures, heavy metals, pollution, high irradiance, pathogen infection, and others disrupt the delicate balance between ROS ','Reactive oxygen species, stomatal behavior, ROS scavenging mechanism.','In recent years, scientists have focused on the deteriorative effects of ROS/RNS and the mechanisms demonstrating the involvement of antioxidants in mitigating these free radicals. These free radicals are unavoidable because they are results of regular cell metabolism. Reactive oxygen species appears to be double edged sword of life. Plants are surfeited with strong ROS scavenging mechanism to avoid the toxic level of accumulation. A balance of ROS production and ROS scavenging is maintained in the cell. Plant strategically utilizes ROS for growth and development processes such as pathogen defence, programme cell death and stomatal behaviour under normal condition. However, under stress condition plant forced to spend more energy on ROS scavenging to maintain ROS homeostasis. Imbalance in ROS homeostasis leads to accumulation of ROS and thereby modification of cellular components. Although recent research insight into the ROS mediated plant developmental processes has solved many enigm','-','Abhishek Chitranashi, Ashok Kumar and Shruti Kumari (2022). Reactive Oxygen Species: Boon or Bane. Biological Forum â€“ An International Journal, 14(1): 675-680.'),(3746,'112','Consequences of Organic and Inorganic Fertilizer Application on Secondary Nutrients under Rice-wheat and Agroforestry Systems','Shiv Singh Meena*, Ajay Srivatava, B.R. Meena, Rakesh Sarswat and Anil Nath','120 Consequences of Organic and Inorganic Fertilizer Application on Secondary Nutrients under Rice-wheat and Agroforestry Systems Meena S. S.pdf','',1,'After green revolution era India agriculture encountered the several problems of soil health, slightly stagnation of food grain production, reduce the ecological resilance etc. resulting overall declining in the system productivity. Integrated application of nutrients for rice-wheat (RW) and agroforestry system is necessary for maintaining soil properties. In sequence to assess the impact of various nutrient management approaches on RW and agroforestry field experiment was conducted during 2016-17 and 2017-18 in which four treatments were taken in an ongoing Long Term Fertilizer Experiment (LTFE), and two treatments from Agroforestry system i.e. Poplar and Eucalyptus based agroforestry systems. Results showed that the organic soil carbon, nitrogen, phosphorus and potassium content increased by 92.41 and 97.60%, 0.396 and 0.390%, 56.34% and 54.84%, 60.39 and 65.06% and 31.99 and 28.68%, respectively over 100% NPK application in R-W cropping system for surface soil in both kharif and ra','Soil organic carbon, nitrogen, phosphorus, potassium, LTFE, Agroforestry.','Continuous application of inorganic fertilizers alone or integration with any of the organics did not influence soil pH. The inorganic fertilizers with organic manure maintained or improved available N, P, K and soil organic carbon content in comparison to application of NPK fertilizers alone in both the cropping system i.e. R-W and agroforestry based cropping system. It is concluded that continuous application of inorganic fertilizers alone could not sustain the soil fertility status and productivity. Thus, integrated nutrient management in continuous cropping system and agroforestry based cropping systems proved effective for sustainability of soil on long term basis.','-','Shiv Singh Meena, Ajay Srivatava, B.R. Meena, Rakesh Kumar and Anil Nath (2022). Consequences of Organic and Inorganic Fertilizer Application on Secondary Nutrients under Rice-wheat and Agroforestry Systems. Biological Forum â€“ An International Journal, '),(3747,'112','In vitro Bio Efficacy of Botanicals against Tea Mosquito bug, Helopeltis theivora Waterhouse in Tea','R. Ranjithkumar*, M. Kalaynasundaram, M. Kannan, J.S. Kennedy, C.R. Chinnamuthu and P. Paramaguru','121 In vitro Bio Efficacy of Botanicals against Tea Mosquito bug, Helopeltis theivora Waterhouse in Tea R. Ranjithkumar.pdf','',1,'Bio-efficacy of botanicals against the Tea mosquito bug (TMB) in Tea was evaluated at the R&D center, Parry Agro Industries Limited, Valparai, Coimbatore, Tamil Nadu. In laboratory condition, using cold extraction method some botanicals were extract and using for bioassay. Among all the treatments tested, Calophyllum inophyllum seed oil after 72 hours after treatment treated tea shoots had less number of feeding punctures (304.67 Nos) and a maximum of 98.25% adult mortality followed by Pongamia pinnata seed oil showed 272.00 Nos feeding puncture and 94.74% mortality, Azadirachtin 10000 ppm, 283.00 feeding puncture and 84.21% mortality, Madhuca longifolia seed oil 2% showed 289.00 feeding puncture and 80.70% mortality, extracts of Vitex negundo leaf extract 5%, 301.67 feeding puncture and 70.18% mortality and extracts of Clerodendrum viscosum leaf extract 2%, 304.67 feeding puncture and 70.18% mortality, Fish Oil Rosin Soap showed 382.33 feeding puncture and 24.56% mortality. The feedin','Bioefficacy, Botanicals, Tea, Tea mosquito bug and sucking pests. ','The present studies conclude that the application of Calophyllum inophyllum seed oil @ 20ml/lit. followed by Pongamia pinnata seed oil @ 20ml/lit, in rotation effectively control H. theivora in tea. Thus Pongamia pinnata seed oil @ 20ml/lit was recommended for widespread application to successfully manage the tea mosquito bug in different tea plantations. ','-','R. Ranjithkumar, M. Kalaynasundaram, M. Kannan, J.S. Kennedy, C.R. Chinnamuthu and P. Paramaguru (2022). In vitro Bio Efficacy of Botanicals against Tea Mosquito bug, Helopeltis theivora Waterhouse in Tea. Biological Forum â€“ An International Journal, 14'),(3748,'112','Effect of different Solid Media and Temperature level on Growth of Cercospora canescens causing Cercospora Leaf Spot Disease in Mungbean','Naresh Kumar*, Lalita Lakhran and Mahabeer Singh','122 Effect of different Solid Media and Temperature level on Growth of Cercospora canescens causing Cercospora Leaf Spot Disease in Mungbean Naresh Kumar.pdf','',1,'The present paper describes the effects of various solid media and temperatures for the growth on Cercospora canescens. Efficacy of various solid media at the growth of Cercospora canescens were tested and resulted that in Malt Extract Agar medium (64.70 mm) was found with maximum mycelial growth of the tested pathogen observed by Potato Dextrose Agar (43.50 mm). The minimum mycelial growth was noticed in Corn Meal Agar (16.00 mm). The temperature studies revealed that highest mycelial growth (85.00 mm) became found at 25Â°C and minimum mycelial (20.33 mm) growth was found at 35Â°C However, 20Â°C, 30Â°C and 15Â°C also not favoured good growth of Cercospora canescens but differ significantly from growth at 25Â°C. Not growth was found at 40Â°C. It can be concluded that 25Â°C is the optimum temperature for mycelial growth of Cercospora canescens. Temperature plays important role among the external factors which influence the growth and reproduction of fungi. All the fungi have minimum tem','Mungbean, Solid Media, Temperature, Cercospora canescens.','In the present study, the Malt Extract Agar medium was found with maximum mycelial growth of the tested pathogen followed by Potato Dextrose Agar medium. The minimum mycelial growth was noticed in Corn Meal Agar. The growth characters varied from concave to convex, raised, pluffy, whitish to light grey colony colour and regular to irregular colonies were noticed. Sporulation of the pathogen was also showed variation on different media. Good sporulation was recorded in Malt Extract Agar media and moderate sporulation was noticed in Potato Dextrose Agar. Poor sporulation was observed in Czapekâ€™s Dox Agar media and no sporulation were observed in Richardâ€™s Agar, Corn Meal Agar and Oat Meal Agar media.\r\nThe temperature studies revealed that highest mycelial growth was observed at 25Â°C and lowest mycelial growth was observed at 35oC However, 20Â°C, 30Â°C and 15Â°C also not favoured good growth of Cercospora canescens but differ significantly from growth at 25Â°C. No growth was found a','-','Naresh Kumar, Lalita Lakhran and Mahabeer Singh (2022). Effect of different Solid Media and Temperature level on Growth of Cercospora canescens causing Cercospora Leaf Spot Disease in Mungbean. Biological Forum â€“ An International Journal, 14(1): 694-698'),(3749,'112','A Study on Functional Relationship between different Factors and Product in Paddy and Wheat Crop','Rahul Kumar*, A.M. Jaulkar, S.C. Srivastava and Dinesh Baboo Tyagi','123 A Study on Functional Relationship between different Factors and Product in Paddy and Wheat Crop Rahul Kumar.pdf','',1,'A study was conducted entitle functional relationship between different factors and product in paddy and wheat crop in Dabra block of Gwalior district M.P. Multistage random sampling method was used to acquire sample farmer, At the first stage of sampling, Dabra block was selected purposively, second stage of sampling, a list of the paddy and wheat growing villages were prepared from selected block (Dabra) then 20 villages were selected randomly, and the third stage of sampling, a list of paddy and wheat growers from each selected village was prepared then classified into five major categories on the basis of their land holding i.e. marginal (less than 1ha) small (1-2 ha), semi medium (2-4 ha), medium (4-10 ha) and large (10 ha or above).Then a sample of 30 farmers were selected in each category by simple random sampling technique under proportionate allocation from twenty villages treated as strata thus, 150 paddy and 150 wheat farmers were selected. After the analysis of data it ','Functional relationship, Regression, input-output, production function, paddy and wheat.','It is concluded from the results that, at overall farm level, the value of R2 was observed very high i.e. 0.95 and 0.97 in paddy and wheat crops respectively which gives signal that all the factors viz. seed (X1),fertilizer (X2), human labour (X3) machinery (X1) plant protection (X5) manure (X6) and irrigation (X7) were best fitted. The summation of regression coefficient at overall farm in both the crops (paddy and wheat) were observed less than one which implied that decreasing return found under both the crops in the study area.','-','Rahul Kumar, A.M. Jaulkar, S.C. Srivastava and Dinesh Baboo Tyagi (2022). A Study on Functional Relationship between different Factors and Product in Paddy and Wheat Crop. Biological Forum â€“ An International Journal, 14(1): 699-702.'),(3750,'112','Effect of Nano-Fertilizers on Fruit Crops: A Review','Murari Lal Chopra* , K.K. Meena , Govind Kumar Yadav , Priynka Kumari Jat , Vikas and Rajesh Choudhary','124 Effect of Nano-Fertilizers on Fruit Crops A Review Murari Lal Chopra.pdf','',1,'Many challenges face global agricultural systems, including the problem of feeding orchids due to the deterioration of many agricultural soils as a result of contamination with chemical fertilizers residues, as well as improving the growth and productivity of fruit trees and obtaining good quality fruits, which is largely dependent on the availability of quantities. In order to achieve food safety, researchers tended to find ways to increase the efficiency of fertilizer use without being exposed to losses or pollution, so nanotechnology is a useful tool for agricultural development, especially in fertilization programme, as nano fertilizers are an effective alkaline fertilizer. They have several benefits due to their use in less amount, the speed with which they are absorbed by the plant and their great stability under a variety of situations, allowing them to be stored for extended periods of time. By enhancing agricultural productivity, improving crop quality and maintaining crop sus','Nano Fertilization, Fruit trees, Nutrients.','Besides improving nutrient management in modern agriculture and increasing the storing potential of fruits, the use of nano on fruit trees contributes very effectively to improving the quality of fruits and increasing the productivity of trees. It was also noted that the use of nano-fertilizer in the agricultural field preserves the soil. It minimizes pollution by lowering the quantity of fertilizer required, which has a favorable impact on the farmer\'s financial return. We urge that additional research be done on the effects of various nano-fertilizers on fruit trees, as well as the study of new types of fruit trees to see how they respond to nano-fertilizers.','-','Murari Lal Chopra, K.K. Meena, Govind Kumar Yadav, Priynka Kumari Jat, Vikas and Rajesh Choudhary (2022). Effect of Nano-Fertilizers on Fruit Crops: A Review. Biological Forum â€“ An International Journal, 14(1): 703-711.'),(3751,'112','Effect of different Land-uses Systems on Soil pH, Electrical Conductivity and Micronutrients in Mollisols of Uttarakhand','Basta Ram * , Ajeet Pratap Singh , Vijay Kant Singh , Mamta Shivran and Asha Serawat','125 Effect of Different Land-uses Systems on Soil pH, Electrical Conductivity and Micronutrients in Mollisols of Uttarakhand Basta Ram.pdf','',1,'The variability and status of micronutrients are very important for crop production there for so a sound knowledge of micronutrients is more important. The rapid agricultural change has been reported in South Asian countries.Today change takes place in a single direction from natural ecosystem to artificial ecosystem. Therefore, this study was conducted for the effects of different land-use systems on soil properties,i.e. electrical conductivity (EC), pH, and micronutrients. The study area was located at Norman E. Borlaug Crop Research Centre, G.B. Pant University of Agriculture and Technology, Pantnagar, which lies at 29Â°N latitude, 79Â°3ï‚¢E longitudes, and 243.84 m above the mean sea level altitude. The randomized complete block design, including different treatments with three replications for soil depth (0â€“20cm), was used in this experiment.The treatment were selected for study micronutrient content in soil that T1 (rice â€“ potato â€“ okra), T2 (rice â€“ pea (vegetable) â€“ ma','Micronutrient, lund uses, agroforestry organic matter','Different land-use can influence the properties of soil and the essential nutrient dynamics in the soils. The finding of that experiment was concluded that the significant effect of different treatments on the soil properties seen due to different land-use types in the experiment. Electrical conductivity, soil reaction, zinc, iron, copper, and manganese in soil were varied significantly under different treatments. The highest electrical conductivity, pH, zinc, iron, copper, and manganese were reported under the T8 (eucalyptus + turmeric) land-use system while the lowest was obtained under T9 (fallow uncultivated) treatment. The based on of these results, it can be concluded that among different treatments superior electrical conductivity, pH, zinc, iron, copper, and manganese soil were found under agroforestry-based treatment T8 and T7 treatments). So, soil researchers should have been promoted the agroforestry land-use system in combination with agricultural systems.','-','Basta Ram, Ajeet Pratap Singh, Vijay Kant Singh, Mamta Shivran and Asha Serawat (2022). Effect of Different Land-uses Systems on Soil pH, Electrical Conductivity and Micronutrients in Mollisols of Uttarakhand. Biological Forum â€“ An International Journ'),(3752,'112','Effect of Liming Materials and Phosphorus on Nutrient Uptake and Yield of Soybean in a Dystrudept of Nagaland','L. Somendro Singh* and P.K. Singh','126 Effect of Liming Materials and Phosphorus on Nutrient Uptake and Yield of Soybean in a Dystrudept of Nagaland L. Somendro Singh.pdf','',1,'Soils of Nagaland state are strong to slightly acidic in nature and deficient in available P. Low availability of phosphorus in these soils is due to fixation of P by Fe and Al oxides. The experiment was laid out in a split plot design (SPD) with sixteen treatments and replicated thrice during the kharif season of 2018 and 2019 on different liming materials and phosphorus levels to evaluate the influence of different liming materials and levels of phosphorus on nutrients uptake, qualitative properties and yield of soybean [Glycine max (L.) Merr.]. All the liming materials (WA @ 0.4 LR, PMS @ 0.4 LR and CS @ 0.4 LR and P levels ( 40, 60 and 80 kg P2O5 ha-1) significantly increased plant height, leave plant-1 , branches plant-1 , number of root nodules plant-1 at 90 DAS. Application of liming materials and P levels significantly increased pods plant-1 , 100 seed weight, grain and stover yield. Interaction effect of liming material and P was also significant for plant height, number of ro','Soybean, Liming materials, Phosphorus, Uptake, Yield, Dystrudept.','This study thus reveals that the application of calcium silicate (CS) @ 0.4 LR along with 80 kg P2O5 ha-1 was most effective towards the optimization of soybean yield with better quality, and to improve the qualitative of soybean and increase nutrient uptake followed by paper mill sludge (PMS) @ 0.4 LR along with 80 kg P2O5 ha-1 and wood ash (WA) @ 0.4 LR along with 80 kg P2O5 ha-1.','-','L. Somendro Singh and P.K. Singh (2022). Effect of Liming Materials and Phosphorus on Nutrient Uptake and Yield of Soybean in a Dystrudept of Nagaland. Biological Forum â€“ An International Journal, 14(1): 717-724.'),(3753,'112','Maize based Intercropping Systems under Drip Irrigation on Productivity of Summer Maize','Navin Kumar C.*, S. Panneer Selvam , S.P. Ramanathan , M. K. Kalarani , G. Nagarajan and S. Duraisamy','127 Maize based Intercropping Systems under Drip Irrigation on Productivity of Summer Maize Navin Kumar C.pdf','',1,'Field experiment on irrigation and quality characters of maize was conducted during summer 2021. The field was laid out with Factorial Randomized Block Design (FRBD) with as inter cropping of pulses were assigned as a main factor (A) viz., lablab, green gram, black gram, cowpea and maize. Irrigation a sub factor (B) with 75% PE, 100% PE, 125% PE along with flooding as check irrigation. Normal irrigation practices were followed for flooding and volume of water was quantified using parshall flume. Irrigation was given once in three days interval from 1st day to 75 days after sowing. Yield was positively responded based on the amount of irrigation given at various stages during the crop growth. Lesser irrigation and higher the amount of irrigation than the normal had lesser yield on maize compared to other irrigation as a treatments. Maize + Black gram cropping system recorded the highest number of grains per row (34.1) and least number of grains per row was recorded in Maize + Cowpea cro','Potential evapo-transpiration. Yield, Yield attributes, Irrigation Quantity.','The present study concluded that irrigation under flooded condition doesnâ€™t give the potential yield attributes of maize. Maize intercropped with pulses under drip irrigation gives better yield attributes and drip irrigation is the best suitable tool for cultivation of maize under future climatic scenarios. ','-','Navin Kumar C., S. Panneer Selvam, S.P. Ramanathan, M. K. Kalarani, G. Nagarajan and S. Duraisamy (2022). Maize based Intercropping Systems under Drip Irrigation on Productivity of Summer Maize. Biological Forum â€“ An International Journal, 14(1): 725-729.'),(3754,'112','Study on Genetic Divergence for Yield and Yield attributing Traits in Ashwagandha (Withania somnifera)','Ganesh Kumar Koli*, Rajesh Kumar Arya, Somveer Nimbal, Deepak Kumar, Kiran and Sonu Langaya','128 Study on Genetic Divergence for Yield and Yield Attributing Traits in Ashwagandha _Withania somnifera_ Ganesh Kumar Koli.pdf','',1,'Ashwagandha (Withania somnifera) is a medicinal plant rich with medicinal properties but due to less research work on ashwagandha there is less information available about the diversity present among the ashwagandha genotypes and without this information a breeder cannot start a breeding program. To study the diversity among the ashwagandha genotypes an experiment was conducted at Agricultural Research Farm of Medicinal, Aromatic and Potential Crops Section of Chaudhary Charan Singh Haryana Agricultural University, Hisar, Haryana, India during kharif season 2019 and evaluated for fourteen quantitative characters using D 2 statistics of Mahalanobis. The genotypes were grouped into 3 clusters. Maximum number of genotypes (11) were grouped under cluster III followed by cluster I and II with 2 genotypes in each cluster. The maximum inter-cluster distance was recorded between I and II (6.73) followed by clusters I and III (6.49). Hence, the genotypes in cluster II had wider diversity with g','Genetic diversity, ashwagandha, quantitative traits, D2 analysis, divergence.','Genetic diversity analysis was carried out through D2 analysis in order to assess the genetic divergence among genotype under study. Based on D2 analysis fifteen genotypes of ashwagandha were grouped in three clusters. Maximum genotypes were found in cluster III while highest mean values for days of 50% flowering, test weight, number of seeds per berry, root length, average diameter of root, harvesting index, biological yield, number of roots and dry root yield were found in cluster 1. The maximum inter-cluster distance was observed between I and II followed by clusters I and III. The maximum intra-cluster distance was recorded in cluster III followed by cluster II. The genotypes belongs to these clusters can be utilized in further ashwagandha breeding programme for the production of hybrid. This diversity study will provide the knowledge about variation present among the genotypes under study and this knowledge about variation is basis requirement to start a breeding program. This stu','-','Ganesh Kumar Koli, Rajesh Kumar Arya, Somveer Nimbal, Deepak Kumar, Kiran and Sonu Langaya (2022). Study on Genetic Divergence for Yield and Yield Attributing Traits in Ashwagandha (Withania somnifera). Biological Forum â€“ An International Journal, 14(1)'),(3755,'112','Impact Assessment of various Tillage and Earthing up Practises on Available Nutrient Status and Productivity of Maize Crop (Zea mays L.) in Uttarakhand\'s Tarai Region','Anil Nath*, Naresh Malik , Rakesh Kumar , Arvind Kumar and Samarth Tewari','129 Impact Assessment of various Tillage and Earthing up Practises on Available Nutrient Status and Productivity of Maize Crop _Zea mays L._ in Uttarakhands Tarai Region Rakesh Kumar.pdf.pdf','',1,'However, the soil and climatic conditions of India are favourable for cultivation of maize but still India lacks behind many countries in terms of yield and productivity of maize. India accounts for only 2.5 percent of global maize production. India\'s maize productivity is roughly half that of the global average, one-fifth that of the United States, and less than half that of China. In order to increase the production of maize per unit area, it is very important to focus on such practices which improve the yield rather than clearing more land for cultivation. Maize being a highly sensitive crop requires careful selection of agronomic practices such as tillage and intercultural operations like earthing up for its proper growth and development. Tillage, nutrient and water supply, delay in intercultural operations, weeds etc. are the major factors which affects the yield potential of maize. For the assessment of the effects of various tillage and earthing up practises on available nutrien','Maize yield, available NPK, deep tillage, Pant fertilizer band placement and earthing machine.','Based on the findings of the current investigation, it was determined that the performance of maize crop in the farmerâ€™s field can be improved by shifting from conventional methods of planting to more advanced techniques like subsoiler and problems associated with manual earthing up practices can be overcome by mechanized earthing up which will help in increasing the yield and net returns of farmers. Maize crops can be grown using deep tillage and earthing up with a Pant fertilizer band placement cum earthing machine to improve soil nutrient status and maize productivity in the Tarai region of Uttarakhand, and this can be replicated throughout the Indo Gangetic plains of India. \r\nThe Pant fertilizer band placement cum earthing machine is an excellent choice for interculture operations such as earthing up in maize crop to improve soil fertility and maize crop productivity.\r\n','-','Anil Nath, Naresh Malik, Rakesh Kumar, Arvind Kumar and Samarth Tewari (2022). Impact Assessment of Various Tillage and Earthing up Practises on Available Nutrient Status and Productivity of Maize Crop (Zea mays L.) in Uttarakhand\'s Tarai Region. Biologic'),(3756,'112','Effect of different Solid Media and Physiological factors on the Growth Pattern of Fusarium verticillioides Incitant of Ear Rot of Maize','Renuka M. , Ajithkumar K.* , Savitha A.S. and Sunil Kulkarni','130 Effect of different Solid Media and Physiological Factors on the Growth Pattern of Fusarium verticillioides Incitant of Ear Rot of Maize Renuka M.pdf','',1,'Fusarium ear rot caused by Fusarium verticillioides is the newly emerging disease of maize causes 10 to 30 per cent reduction in the yield. The laboratory experiments ventured to know the effect of different solid media, temperature, relative humidity and seed moisture levels on the growth and sporulation of F. verticillioides. Among 10 media tested, the maximum colony diameter (89.67 mm) with very good sporulation was recorded on potato dextrose agar which was significantly superior over other media. The temperature of 25Â°C coupled with 90 per cent relative humidity were apt for the growth and sporulation of the fungus. The maximum mycelial growth of 42.67 per cent coverage of seed surface area was recorded at 41.37 per cent of seed moisture level which is significantly superior over other seed moisture levels. Therefore, the different nutrient base as well as the abiotic factors play a major role in disease development.','Fusarium ear rot, relative humidity, seed moisture levels, solid culture media, temperature.','Fusarium ear rot caused by Fusarium verticillioides is the newly emerging disease of maize which results in 10 to 30 per cent reduction in the yield as well as adversely affects the physical, physiological, phytosanitary as well as nutritive qualities of the seed and the mycotoxins produced by the fungi is threatening to the human and livestock health. The present study provides information regarding the nutritional requirement and abiotic factors affecting the pathogen performance. Among different media tested, potato dextrose agar was the best media for growth and sporulation of F. verticillioides. The optimum temperature of 25Â°C and 90 per cent relative humidity were recorded best for maximum growth and very good sporulation of F. verticillioides. Seed moisture also had positive effect on the F. verticillioides infection in the maize seeds.','-','Renuka M., Ajithkumar K., Sunil Kulkarni, Savitha A.S. and Sunil Kulkarni (2022). Effect of Different Solid Media and Physiological Factors on the Growth Pattern of Fusarium verticillioides Incitant of Ear Rot of Maize. Biological Forum â€“ An Internatio'),(3757,'112','Productivity and Profitability of Rice (Oryza sativa L.) as Influenced by different Tillage Systems and Cultivars','Ankit , Sandeep Manuja*, Suresh Kumar, Shilpa, Akashdeep Singh and Shabnam Kumari','131 Productivity and Profitability of Rice _Oryza sativa L._ as Influenced by different Tillage Systems and Cultivars Ankit.pdf','',1,'Popularizing direct seeded rice technology is the need of the hour as the rice production under transplanted conditions have treated havoc in the water economy of the country. Conservation tillage practices also play an important role in ensuring higher productivity with minimal and verse impact in the environment. There is a paucity of information regarding the effect of different tillage techniques on the performance of rice cultivars raised under direct seeded upland conditions. Also little information is available on the impact of residue integration on yield and economics of direct seeded rice, particularly under the sub-tropical conditions of Himachal Pradesh. Hence the present investigation was carried out during kharif 2019 at the Experimental Farm of Department of Agronomy, CSK Himachal Pradesh Krishi Vishvavidyalaya, Palampur to generate information on the effect of different tillage practices, with or without residue retention, on the performance of different rice cultivars ','Productivity, Profitability, Residue, Rice and Tillage.','From the present study it can be concluded that conventional tillage gives better productivity of rice though it is almost similar to the yield obtained with minimum tillage without residue while retention of residue on the soil surface along with minimum tillage lowers the yield in the short run. Further among the varieties tested HPR 2795, a new red rice variety, give better results under direct seeding.','-','Ankit, Sandeep Manuja, Suresh Kumar, Shilpa, Akashdeep Singh and Shabnam Kumari (2022). Productivity and Profitability of Rice (Oryza sativa L.) as Influenced by Different Tillage Systems and Cultivars. Biological Forum â€“ An International Journal, 14(1)'),(3758,'112','Assessment of Yield Losses with percent decrease in Yield over Organically Protected Mungbean (Vigna radiata L.) Influence by Alternaria Leaf Spot and Powdery Mildew','Neeraj Kumar Meena* , Amit Trivedi , Suresh Chand Meena and Shanti Kumar Sharma','132 Assessment of Yield Losses with percent decrease in Yield over Organically Protected Mungbean _Vigna radiata L_ Influence by Alternaria Leaf Spot and Powdery Mildew Neeraj Kumar Meena.pdf','',1,'An experiment was carried out at the Instructional Farm of Rajasthan College of Agriculture, MPUAT, Udaipur. The experiment was laid out in Randomized Block Design (RBD) with four treatments and six replications. To estimate the yield loss under disease severity generated by inoculation of most virulent A. alternata isolate MAa- 2 cultured in laboratory with 1Ã—103 conidia ml-1 concentration and in natural conditions of powdery mildew. The results revealed that both the yearsâ€™ kharif 2017-18, organically protected plots inoculated with A. alternata recorded significantly the highest seed yield of mungbean is 9.11 and 9.18 Qha-1 . The data on per cent decrease yield in unprotected plots over organically protected plots during 2017 and 2018 indicated that under inoculations of A. alternata when the crop was left unprotected, the yield was decreased to 45.38 and 42.29 per cent and the case of naturally infected powdery mildew unprotected plots, the seed yield of mungbean was decreased t','Alternaria, Mungbean, Organic, Powdery mildew, Yield losses.','Looking to the importance of the disease and intensification of cultivation of major mungbean growing areas of Rajasthan, a need was felt to develop its effective and eco-friendly management strategy are needed. The organic based finding for management of leaf spot and powdery mildew are helpful to design IDM strategies based on organic inputs which can be applied at farmerâ€™s field.','-','Neeraj Kumar Meena, Amit Trivedi, Suresh Chand Meena and Shanti Kumar Sharma (2022). Assessment of Yield Losses with Percent Decrease in Yield Over Organically Protected Mungbean (Vigna radiata L.) Influence by Alternaria Leaf Spot and Powdery Mildew. Bio'),(3759,'112','Genetic Association Analysis for Morphological Traits in F1 Generation of Wheat (Triticum aestivum L.)','Vinod Kumar* , R.S. Shukla , A. Chatterjee , S.K. Singh, Manoranjan Biswal and Monika Singh','133 Genetic Association Analysis for Morphological Traits in F1 Generation of Wheat _Triticum aestivum L._ Manoranjan Biswal.pdf','',1,'A diallel cross study comprising of ten bread wheat (Triticum aestivum L.) cultivars were carried out with its parents and F1 progeny for correlation coefficient and path coefficient analysis of yield and its attributes in wheat. The present investigation revealed that grain yield was positively correlated with biological yield plant-1 , effective tillers plant-1 , number grains plant-1 , number of spikes plant-1 , harvest index, number of spikelets spike-1 , plant height and number of grains spike-1 . However, path analysis strongly pointed out the role of days to maturity, plant height, number of grains spike-1 , number of spikes plant-1 , biological yield plant-1 , harvest index and 1000 grain weight in the determination of grain yield per plant. Hence, more importance should be given to these traits while exercising selection. Based on correlation and path studies it was reported that biological yield plant-1 , number of spikes plant-1 , harvest index, plant height, effective tille','Genotype, Co-relation coefficient, Path coefficient, Hybrid, Wheat.','The present investigation revealed that grain yield was positively correlated with biological yield/plant, effective tillers/plant, number of grains/plant, number of spikes/plant, harvest index, number of spikelets/spike, plant height, days to flowering and number of grains/spike. However, path analysis strongly pointed out the role of days to maturity, plant height, number of grains/spike, number of spikes/plant, biological yield/plant, harvest index, 1000-grain weight and wet gluten in the determination of grain yield/plant. Hence, more weightage should, therefore, be given to these traits while exercising selection. Based on correlation and path studies it was reported that biological yield plant-1, number of spikes plant-1, harvest index, plant height, effective tillersplant-1 and number of spikelets spike-1 could be used as important selection traits in order of merit to improve productivity during designing of suitable breeding programme in wheat. ','-','Vinod Kumar, R.S. Shukla, A. Chatterjee, S.K. Singh, Manoranjan Biswal and Monika Singh (2022). Genetic Association Analysis for Morphological Traits in F1 Generation of Wheat (Triticum aestivum L.). Biological Forum â€“ An International Journal, 14(1): 7'),(3760,'112','Dissipation of Bifenthrin in Medium Black Calcareous Soil under Laboratory conditions','Premlata Meena , P. G. Shah , Mamta , Ajit Kumar Meena* and Chaudhary Radhaben Viraji','134 Dissipation of Bifenthrin in Medium Black Calcareous Soil under Laboratory conditions Ajit Kumar Meena.pdf','',1,'An experiment was conducted during 2017-18 at AINP on Pesticide Residues, ICAR Unit- 9, AAU, Anand, Gujarat to study the dissipation behavior of bifenthrin in medium black calcareous soil under laboratory conditions. The bifenthrin was spiked in soil @ 0.06 and 0.12 Î¼g g-1 . The experiment was conducted with three replications along with a control. The samples were collected on 0 (one hour after treatment), 1, 3, 5, 7, 10, 20, 30, 40, 50 and 60 days after treatment. Residues of bifenthrin were estimated by validated QuEChERS multi residue method using GLC equipped with electron capture detector. The mean recovery was in the range of 82.00- 96.67 percent. The residues of bifenthrin in medium black calcareous could be detected up to 40 and 50 days after application at single and double dose, respectively. Higher dose revealed longer persistence in soil than lower one. Bifenthrin showed longer persistent in medium black calcareous soil due to strong adsorption and the presence of soil cl','Bifenthrin, Biphasic dissipation, QuEChERS, medium black calcareous soil.','The results of the present investigation demonstrated that bifenthrin persists for more than 40 and 50 days at normal and double dose in medium black calcareous soil, respectively. Higher dose revealed longer persistence in soils than lower one. Because of strong adsorption and the presence of soil clay and organic matter, the persistence of bifenthrin in soil increases. Further studies could be conducted under different field and climatic conditions.','-','Premlata Meena, P. G. Shah, Mamta, Ajit Kumar Meena and Chaudhary Radhaben Viraji (2022). Dissipation of Bifenthrin in Medium Black Calcareous Soil Under Laboratory Conditions. Biological Forum â€“ An International Journal, 14(1): 762-766.'),(3761,'112','Effect of different Concentrations of IBA and Saccharides on Physiological Parameters and benefit Cost ratio of Pomegranate Semi-hard Wood Cuttings','Pratibha* , S.K. Panday , Jitendra Chandrawanshi and Suman Dhaka','135 Effect of different Concentrations of IBA and Saccharides on Physiological Parameters and Benefit Cost Ratio of Pomegranate Semi-hard Wood Cuttings Pratibha.pdf','',1,'Pomegranate (Punica grantum) is the major commercial fruit crops in arid and semi-arid region of the India, and it is multiply through cutting at large scale with the help of plant growth regulators. The PGR cost, availability and its solution prepration are not easy for the all nursery mans as well as successes rate is also not upto optimum marks. Therefore, some sugar sources are used in this study to enhance the rooting percentage and success rates. The present experiment entitled â€œEffect of IBA and Saccharides on rooting and growth in stem cuttings of pomegranate (Punica granatum L.) cv. Bhagwaâ€ was carried out during 2019-2020 at Fruit Research Station, Imalia, Department of Horticulture, College of Agriculture, J.N.K.V.V., Jabalpur (M.P.). The present experiment was conducted to study the effect with seventeen treatment and three replications in Completely Randomized Design (CRD) under polyhouse condition on physiological parameters and benefit cost ratio. The study revealed ','Physiological parameters, Saccharide, Semi hard wood cuttings.','Based on the results of present investigation, it can be concluded that Sucrose 5000 ppm (T4) had significantly effective and promote the maximum leaf area at 90 and 120 days (331.10 cm and 485.25 cm), maximum leaf area index at 120 days (6.42), maximum leaf area duration (12.25), maximum chlorophyll content index (32.55) and minimum light transmission ratio (30.83 %) at 120 days. Similarly, the concentration Sucrose 5000 ppm (T4) had significantly minimum cost per cutting (13.94), maximum benefit per plant (21.06) and maximum benefit cost ratio (2.51).','-','Pratibha, S.K. Panday, Jitendra Chandrawanshi and Suman Dhaka (2022). Effect of Different Concentrations of IBA and Saccharides on Physiological Parameters and Benefit Cost Ratio of Pomegranate Semi-hard Wood Cuttings. Biological Forum â€“ An Internationa'),(3762,'112','Fitting Inflated Modified Power Series Distribution to Analysis Insect Count Data','Chetan Kumar Saini*, Neelash Patel and Rishabh','136 Fitting Inflated Modified Power Series Distribution to Analysis Insect Count Data Chetan Kumar Saini.pdf','',1,'The present paper describes the fitting of inflated modified power series distribution (IMPSD) on insect count data. When modelling data consisting of counts, it is not uncommon to observe more zeroes than would be expected. The extra zeros may be a result of over-dispersion in the data. if ignoring extra zero result can be biased parameter estimates and standard errors. To overcome this difficulty, we use zero inflated power series distribution. In a zero-inflated count distribution, an additional term is added to account for these extra structural zeroes. This help to get unbiased parameter of distribution. The parameter of IMPSD estimated by method of moment (MM), Method of proportion of zeroth cell (MPZC) and method of maximum likelihood (MLE). The result show that distribution is adequate to describe inherent variation of insect.','Modified power series distribution, Insect count data, Method of moment, MPZC, Method of maximum likelihood, Ï‡ 2 test of goodness of fit.','1. The present result shows that Inflated, binomial and Poisson distribution was found adequate to explain the inherent variation of insect population on moong crop.\r\n2. For estimation of parameters the method of moments, method of proportion of zeroth cell (MPZC), and maximum likelihood estimation method were found to be the suitable.','-','Chetan Kumar Saini, Neelash Patel and Rishabh (2022). Fitting Inflated Modified Power Series Distribution to Analysis Insect Count Data. Biological Forum â€“ An International Journal, 14(1): 771-776.'),(3763,'112','The Effect of a Mineral-vitamin Premix containing Beta Carotene on Infertility in Infertile Crossbred Cattle','Dheeraj Kumar*, Rajendra Kumar , Tushar Rajendra Bhosale , Mahendra Kumar , V.K. Paswan , Keshav Kumar and Anjali Nagori','137 The Effect of a Mineral-vitamin Premix Containing Beta Carotene on Infertility in Infertile Crossbred Cattle Dheeraj Kumar.pdf','',1,'The present research work has been conducted at Gowshala dairy farm, Department of Animal Husbandry & Dairying, Institute of Agricultural Sciences, Banaras Hindu University, Varanasi, UP, INDIA. Minerals have a substantial impact on animal reproduction physiology. Their imbalance causes a slew of problems, including lower reproductive efficiency and financial losses for the dairy industry. For this study 24 crossbred cattle was selected and divided into two equal groups containing 12 cattle in each group. Group 1 T0 is control & Group 2 is T1 fed with Î²-carotene incorporated with vitamin- permix. The experimental animals were fed all the feed ingredients required for maintenance and growth (500g per day) as per ICAR (2013) feeding standard. In this study total 24 infertile crossbred cattle was selected to induce oestrus taken for correction of anoestrosity with Î²-carotene incorporated vitamin- permix. Total 8 out of 24 animals exhibited oestrus symptom after the treatment. Among the ','Infertility, fertility, Î²-carotene, anoestrus, sterility.','Six animals in the treatment group (vitamin-permix with Î² -carotene) went into heat. In this group, serum Î² -carotene levels were substantially greater in the oestrus condition than in the anoestrus condition (significant at a 5% level). Only two animals in the control group shows estrus. There is no substantial difference in any of the parameters between the anoestrus and oestrus conditions.\r\nAnestrus in cows is caused by a lack of Î² -carotene, and Î² -carotene supplementation may help to enhance the anoestrous state as well as general fertility.','-','Dheeraj Kumar, Rajendra Kumar, Tushar Rajendra Bhosale, Mahendra Kumar, V.K. Paswan, Keshav Kumar and Anjali Nagori (2022). The Effect of a Mineral-vitamin Premix Containing Beta Carotene on Infertility in Infertile Crossbred Cattle. Biological Forum â€“ '),(3764,'112','Relative Susceptibility of Okra varieties against major Insect Pests based on Morphometric and Biochemical characters','Priyanka*, Akhter Hussain, S. K. Khinchi and Sanju Piploda','138 Relative Susceptibility of Okra varieties against major Insect Pests based on Morphometric and Biochemical Characters Priyanka.pdf','',1,'The experiment was conducted at Horticulture farm S.K.N. College of Agriculture, Jobner (Rajasthan) during Kharif, 2017 to identify the infestation of major insect pests of okra (leaf hopper, whitefly and shoot and fruit borer). Ten okra varieties were screened to know their response on the basis of morphometric and biochemical characters. Based on the infestation of major insect pests of okra the grading is done as least, moderately and highly susceptible. The morphological characters of plant showed that the variety IIVR-11 which had more hairiness (trichome density), was found least susceptible for the leaf hopper, whitefly and shoot infestation. Whereas, the variety Parbhani Kranti was found to be most susceptible which had less hairiness to the variety IIVR-11. The total phenols had significant negative effect with leaf hopper and whitefly and non-significant effect with shoot and fruit borer and free amino acid had significant positive effect with leaf hopper, whitefly and shoot ','Biochemical, leaf hopper, Morphological, Shoot and fruit borer, Susceptible, Whitefly.','The morphological characters of plant showed that the variety IIVR-11 which had more hairiness (20 per sq. mm trichome density), was found least susceptible for the leaf hopper, whitefly and shoot infestation. Whereas, the variety Parbhani Kranti was found to be most susceptible which had less hairiness (13 per sq. mm trichome density). The biochemical parameters showed that the variety IIVR-11 which had higher amount of total phenols (4.89%) and lower amount of free amino acids (2.83%) was found least susceptible for the major insect pests infestation. Whereas, the variety Parbhani Kranti was found to be most susceptible which contained these parameters contrary to the variety IIVR-11.','-','Priyanka, Akhter Hussain, S. K. Khinchi and Sanju Piploda (2022). Relative Susceptibility of Okra Varieties against Major Insect Pests Based on Morphometric and Biochemical Characters. Biological Forum â€“ An International Journal, 14(1): 781-784.'),(3765,'112','Effect of amendments on Growth and Nutrient uptake of African marigold (Tagetus erecta) under Paper and Pulp Mill Effluent Irrigated Soil','Ezra John J. , P. Thangavel*, G. Balasubramanian , T. Kalaiselvi and E. Kokiladevi','139 Effect of amendments on Growth and Nutrient uptake of African marigold _Tagetus erecta_ under Paper and Pulp Mill Effluent Irrigated Soil Ezra John J.pdf','',1,'In spite of water shortages green areas in cities have increased due to use of alternative water sources for irrigation. Alternative water sources usually have a lot of salt in them, as a result, salinity threatens the survival of various plants. Paper and pulp mill effluent is generally alkaline and increases the salinity of soil when irrigated for long duration. Therefore, developing agronomic strategies and salt tolerant varieties for successful cultivation of crops in saline soils is explored in recent years. Hence, this study was aimed to assess the potential of different amendments (without amendment (A1), 50 % Gypsum requirement (A2), Poultry manure at 5 t ha-1 with 0.1 % Pink pigmented facultative methylotroph (PPFM) as foliar spray (A3) and 5 t ha-1 Pressmud compost along with CSR BIO 35 kg ha-1 (A4)) to improve the crop growth of marigold (Tagetes erecta L.) under salt stress. Application of organic amendments increased the biomass and flower yield of marigold when compared w','Salinity, African marigold, Organic amendments, Paper and pulp mill effluent, ion uptake.','The Alternative water sources usually have a lot of salt in them, this leads to development of salinity that threatens the survival of various plants. Organic amendment application releases acids during decomposition and help in reducing the salinity stress and improves crop growth. In this study it is evident that application of organic amendments increased the biomass by 73.3% and flower yield by 69.9 %. It also helps in uptake of essential nutrients like Ca+ and K+ which is generally unavailable in saline and sodic soils. Hence the application of organic amendments has significant effect on cultivation of marigold under paper and pulp mill effluent irrigated soil.','-','Ezra John J., P. Thangavel, G. Balasubramanian, T. Kalaiselvi and E. Kokiladevi (2022). Effect of amendments on Growth and Nutrient Uptake of African marigold (Tagetus erecta) under Paper and Pulp Mill Effluent Irrigated Soil. Biological Forum â€“ An Inte'),(3766,'112','Influence of Pre and Postharvest Treatments of various Chemicals and Growth Regulators on Physical and Quality characteristics of Sapota Fruits cv. PKM-1','K. Venkatesan*','140 Influence of Pre and Postharvest Treatments of various Chemicals and Growth Regulators on Physical and Quality characteristics of Sapota Fruits cv. PKM-1 K. Venkatesan.pdf','',1,'Sapota is grown in a variety of tropical and subtropical climates around the world. It is delicious, nutritive and it is primarily cultivated for fresh consumption. Sapota has a very short postharvest life due to its highly perishable nature. Proper pre- and postharvest treatments are essential to extend the shelf life and improve the quality of sapota. Hence the present investigation was conducted â€œTo develop a process for uniform ripening and enhancing the shelf-life and quality of Sapotaâ€ at the Horticultural College and Research Institute (HC & RI), TNAU, Coimbatore to find out the influence of pre and post harvest chemical treatments on physical characteristics of sapota fruit (var. PKM-1). The experiment was laid out in Factorial Randomized Block Design with three replications. Among seven different pre harvest treatments, the treatment which comprised of 2% Potassium sulphate has recorded the highest fruit length (9.9 cm), fruit girth (15.2 cm), pulp weight (115.40 g), fruit','Potassium sulphate; Ethephon; Pre-harvest spray, growth regulator, sapota, physical and quality characters of sapota.','On the basis of present studies the pre-harvest treatment with 2% potassium sulphate combined with post harvest treatment of ethephon solution @ 1500 ppm +25 Î¼ LDPE bag with O2 @ 5% & CO2 @ 10% at 11oC (T4P1S1) has increased the fruit firmness (3.9 kg/cm2), TSS (21.8Â°Brix) and shelf life (13 days) and decreased physiological loss in weight (1%) and acidity (0.1%). Sapota is one of the important fruit crops in India. Places like Gujarat, Maharashtra, Karnataka and \r\nTamil Nadu share the maximum part in terms of production. Therefore, proper management practices before and after the harvest of the crops should be suggested to the farmers which helps to increase in shelf life and quality of sapota fruits.','-','K. Venkatesan (2022). Influence of Pre and Postharvest Treatments of Various Chemicals and Growth Regulators on Physical and Quality characteristics of Sapota Fruits cv. PKM-1. Biological Forum â€“ An International Journal, 14(1): 790-793.'),(3767,'112','Influence of Crop Residue, Inorganic Fertilizers and Vermicompost on the Growth, Yield and Yield attributes of Blackgram under Rice-Blackgram System','K.K. Suvain* , V.K. Paulpandi , G. Srinivasan , E. Subramanian , R. Indirani and K. Prabakaran','141 Influence of Crop Residue, Inorganic Fertilizers and Vermicompost on the Growth, Yield and Yield Attributes of Blackgram under Rice-Blackgram System K. K. Suvain.pdf','',1,'Rice â€“ Blackgram was the major adopted cropping system of Tamil Nadu. Increasing the productivity of blackgram by reducing the usage inorganic fertilizer, in view of improving soil fertility without affecting the productivity of the crop with a proper residue management practice was the main objective of this research. The field experiment was conducted in blackgram Vamban (VBN 8) during January â€“ June, 2020, to study the influence of crop residue, inorganic fertilizers and vermicompost on the growth, yield and yield attributes of blackgram under rice - blackgram cropping system. Blackgram with and without incorporating preceding rice crop residue were taken as vertical factors V1 â€“ blackgram with incorporation of rice residue, V2 â€“ blackgram without incorporation. Different fertilizer recommended doses in combination with vermicompost as an integrated approach were taken as horizontal factors H1- 100 per cent recommended dose of fertilizer alone, H2- 75 per cent recommended do','Blackgram, fertilizer, rice residue, vermicompost, yield.','The study concluded that without incorporation of rice residue and the application of 100 per cent recommended dose of fertilizer alone (V2H1) recorded higher growth and yield of blackgram Vamban (VBN 8). This was found on par with no rice residue incorporation and 75 per cent recommended dose of fertilizer plus 25 per cent application of vermicompost (V2H3) and blackgram without rice residue incorporation with 75 per cent recommended dose of fertilizer alone (V2H2). Incorporation of rice residue with the application of 100 per cent recommended dose of fertilizer alone (V1H1) was also found on par with the same trend. And least of all the attributes (plant height, leaf area index, dry matter production, number of pods per plant, number of seeds per pod, grain and haulm yield) were recorded in blackgram with rice residue incorporation treatment along with 50 per cent recommended dose of fertilizer alone (V1H4).','-','K.K. Suvain, V.K. Paulpandi, G. Srinivasan, E. Subramanian, R. Indirani and K. Prabakaran (2022). Influence of Crop Residue, Inorganic Fertilizers and Vermicompost on the Growth, Yield and Yield attributes of Blackgram under Rice-Blackgram System. Biologi'),(3768,'112','Assessment of Genetic Diversity in rabi Sorghum [Sorghum bicolor (L.) Monech] using D2 Statistics','Lokesh Kumar Verma* , B.D. Biradar and A.K. Meena','142 Assessment of Genetic Diversity in rabi Sorghum [Sorghum bicolor _L._ Monech] using D2 Statistics Lokesh Kumar Verma.pdf','',1,'Genetic diversity is a necessary part of a successful hybrid breeding programme. One of the reasons why the rabi hybrids programme hasn\'t had much success is that there hasn\'t been a systematic assessment of genetic variation before incorporating into a hybrid combination. In the present experiment, 75 sorghum genotypes, including two checks, were evaluated for genetic diversity using twenty quantitative traits. After the D2 and Tochar methods, the studied genotypes were distributed into ten clusters. Cluster Î™ to VI had various numbers of genotypes and cluster I was found to be largest with 30 genotypes, whereas the rest of the clusters were solitary. Highest contribution towards genetic divergence was made by panicle weight (19.96%), followed by grain yield per plant (18.56%) and 1000 grain weight (16.65%). The genotypes viz., IS 15170, IS 7987, IS 12735, M35-1 and PKV Kranti were found to be distinct, diverse and also showed good per se performance. These genotypes can be selected ','Rabi sorghum, D2 statistics, Genetic divergence, Phenotypic traits.','The data on inter cluster distances and per se performances of genotypes were used to select genetically diverse and agronomically superior genotypes. The genotypes, exceptionally good with respect to one or more traits seemed to be desirable. Inter crossing of divergent groups would lead to greater opportunity for crossing over which releases hidden potential variability by disrupting the undesirable linkage (Thoday, 1960). In the present study, the genotypes viz., IS 15170, IS 7987, and IS 12735, M35-1 and PKV Kranti were found to be distinct, diverse and showed good per se performance. The progeny derived from such diverse crosses are expected to have wide spectrum of genetic variability, which provides a greater scope for isolating transgressive segregants in advanced generations. In addition, these genotypes can be potential sources for the diverse alleles of yield, yield component traits and could be further evaluated for their breeding value as parents and could be utilized in s','-','Lokesh Kumar Verma, B.D. Biradar and A.K. Meena (2022). Assessment of Genetic Diversity in rabi Sorghum [Sorghum bicolor (L.) Monech] using D2 Statistics. Biological Forum â€“ An International Journal, 14(1): 800-803.'),(3769,'112','Assessment of available Macronutrient Status and their Correlation Studies with Important Soil Properties in Soils of Narmada District','K.A. Kachhiyapatel*, Laxman Kumawat , K.H. Patel , N. Singh , R.H. Kotadiya and P.H. Patel','143 Assessment of Available Macronutrient Status and Their Correlation Studies with Important Soil Properties in Soils of Narmada District K.A. Kachhiyapatel.pdf','',1,'K.A. Kachhiyapatel*, Laxman Kumawat , K.H. Patel , N. Singh , R.H. Kotadiya and P.H. Patel','Macronutrients, GPS, correlation, soil organic carbon and narmada.','All (100 per cent) soils of entire Narmada district belonged to low available N status and thus, clearly suggested that emphasis should be given for appropriate management of available N status (through application of more organic matters, bio-fertilizers in combination with regular chemical N-fertilizer) of these soils to overcome problems of low N availability to maintain soil. Similarly, soils of talukas (Tilakwada, Garudeshwar, Nandod, Dediyapada and Sagbara) due to their low available P2O5 status would need proper management of soil P through proper placement of inorganic P-fertilizers in combination with organic sources / green manuring and PSB etc. for proper plant nutrition and soil health. About 96 per cent soil samples belonged to high K2O and medium available S (particularly from Dediyapada and Sagbara talukas) appropriate management of sulphur would be must through addition of inorganic sulphur, organic manures or sulphinated compost, bio-composts and sulphur solubilizing m','-','K.A. Kachhiyapatel, Laxman Kumawat, K.H. Patel, N. Singh, R.H. Kotadiya and P.H. Patel (2022). Assessment of Available Macronutrient Status and Their Correlation Studies with Important Soil Properties in Soils of Narmada District. Biological Forum â€“ An '),(3770,'112','Seed Biopriming with Trichoderma Enhances Yield attributing Characters of Rajmash (Phaseolus vulgaris c.v. HUR-137) in Varanasi region of Uttar Pradesh','Mehjabeen*, A. Rakshit , Anoop Kumar Devedee and Ghanshyam','144 Seed Biopriming with Trichoderma Enhances Yield Attributing Characters of Rajmash _Phaseolus vulgaris c.v. HUR-137_ in Varanasi Region of Uttar Pradesh Mehjabeen.pdf','',1,'Red kidney bean plants were treated with different grades of recommended dose of fertilizer (RDF) along with biopriming with Trichoderma harzianum in greenhouse to study the combined effect of fertilizers and microbial inoculant in lack of such studies and especially in red kidney bean in which N- fixation (nodulation) is either absent or meagre. Results represented that T2 showed maximum growth attributes while T5 showed comparable growth followed by T4, T3, T6 and T1. Biopriming improved different yield attributing characters with lesser fertilizer doses comparable to RDF in relation to nitrogen, phosphorus and potassium. Plants treated with RDF without bio-treatments was found to be best as per growth but the plants treated with 90% RDF combined with biopriming was comparable and suggests that the use of bio-agents can be used significantly to supplement the nutritional needs of the crop which is reduced as a part of the nutrients. Also, the plants treated solely with the bio-agent ','Bio-priming, yield attributes, seed index, rajmash/ dry bean.','The research data supports the points that Biopriming of the crop with Trichoderma harzianum improved different yield attributes like number of trifoliate branches/plant, weight of pods, number of pods, number of seeds per pods, pod length, seed index,Yield/pot in red kidney bean. Improvement in these traits of the crops resulted in increased economic as well as biological produce of red kidney and ultimately harvesting index for the crop.','-','Mehjabeen, A. Rakshit, Anoop Kumar Devedee and Ghanshyam (2022). Seed Biopriming with Trichoderma Enhances Yield Attributing Characters of Rajmash (Phaseolus vulgaris c.v. HUR-137) in Varanasi Region of Uttar Pradesh. Biological Forum â€“ An International'),(3771,'112','Studies on Transgressive Segregation for Pod Yield and Yield Attributes in F2 Segregating Populations of four Groundnut Crosses','K. Amarnath* , M. Reddisekhar , K. John, P. Sudhakar4 and K. Viswanth','145 Studies on Transgressive Segregation for Pod Yield and Yield Attributes in F2 Segregating Populations of four Groundnut Crosses K. Amarnath.pdf','',1,'The present study was carried out to recognize desirable transgressive segregants in four crosses viz., Kadiri-6 Ã— CS-19, Narayani Ã— J-11, ICGV-07262 Ã— TCGS-1862 and ICGV-07262 Ã— TCGS-2149 of groundnut for days to 50% flowering, days to maturity, hundred pod weight, sound mature kernel %, shelling percentage, pod yield per plant and kernel yield per plant. Transgressive segregation was observed for all the characters in all the four crosses under study. The cross ICGV-07262 Ã— TCGS-2149 registered highest number of transgressive segregants for pod yield per plant (107 plants), days to maturity (146 plants), hundred pod weight (103), shelling percentage (76 plants) and kernel yield per plant (101 plants). While the cross ICGV-07262 Ã— TCGS-1862 recorded relatively more number of transgressive segregants for days to 50% flowering (97 plants) and harvest index (122 plants). This indicates that the parents possess divergent alleles governing respective traits from which all desirable a','Groundnut, Transgressive segregants, pod yield and yield attributes.','As pod yield and other yield components showed transgressive segregation in all the four crosses it can be inferred that the parents possess divergent alleles for yield and its associated characters from which it could be inferred that there is a lot of scope to bring all desirable alleles into a single genotype through rigorous selection and evaluating the segregants to arrive at a desirable plant type through selection in later generations.','-','K. Amarnath, M. Reddisekhar, K. John, P. Sudhakar and K. Viswanth (2022). Studies on Transgressive Segregation for Pod Yield and Yield Attributes in F2 Segregating Populations of Four Groundnut Crosses. Biological Forum â€“ An International Journal, 14(1'),(3772,'112','Physiological Variation in Dairy Cows under various Housing Types during South West Monsoon in Tamil Nadu, India','T. Sivakumar , P.T. Suraj and A. Yasotha*','146 Physiological Variation in Dairy Cows under various Housing Types during South West Monsoon in Tamil Nadu, India A Yasotha.pdf','',1,'The housing of dairy cow tends to be the most important component in dairy farming as it should buffer the cattle from extreme climates and must reduce resultant stresses. In Tamil Nadu varying designs and construction materials are used depending upon local practice and availability. A study was carried out to assess the variation in physiological variables on dairy cows under different housing patterns in the four agro-climatic regions of Tamil Nadu viz. North Eastern zone, North Western zone, Western zone and Hilly zone during South West Monsoon season. Various physiological parameters of dairy animals such as rectal temperature, pulse rate, respiration rate and skin temperature were recorded in all the housing types with different roofing materials from four agro-climatic zones. The lowest rectal temperature and skin temperature were 38.05Â±0.12Â°C and 29.00Â±0.59Â°C respectively recorded under the metal sheet roofing in Hilly zone whereas the lowest pulse rate and respiration rate','Physiological parameters, South West Monsoon, dairy cow, housing.','The housing of dairy cow tends to be the most important component in dairy farming as it should buffer the cattle from extreme climates and must reduce resultant stresses. In Tamil Nadu varying designs and construction materials are used depending upon local practice and availability. A study was carried out to assess the variation in physiological variables on dairy cows under different housing patterns in the four agro-climatic regions of Tamil Nadu viz. North Eastern zone, North Western zone, Western zone and Hilly zone during South West Monsoon season. Various physiological parameters of dairy animals such as rectal temperature, pulse rate, respiration rate and skin temperature were recorded in all the housing types with different roofing materials from four agro-climatic zones. The lowest rectal temperature and skin temperature were 38.05Â±0.12Â°C and 29.00Â±0.59Â°C respectively recorded under the metal sheet roofing in Hilly zone whereas the lowest pulse rate and respiration ','-','T. Sivakumar, P.T. Suraj and A. Yasotha (2022). Physiological Variation in Dairy Cows Under Various Housing Types During South West Monsoon in Tamil Nadu, India. Biological Forum â€“ An International Journal, 14(1): 820-823.'),(3773,'112','Socio-economic Profile and Constraints faced by Dairy Farmers of Udham Singh Nagar District of Uttarakhand, India','Kamal Bansod* , Jyoti Palod, Shive Kumar , C.B. Singh , S.K. Singh , Sanjay Kumar and Nawal Kishor Singh','147 Socio-economic Profile and Constraints Faced by Dairy Farmers of Udham Singh Nagar District of Uttarakhand, India Kamal Bansod.pdf','',1,'Dairy farming plays a very crucial role in improving the socio-economic status of the rural farmers in our country. A study was conducted to explore the socio-economic profile and constraints faced by dairy farmers of Udham Singh Nagar district. Random sampling method was applied for the study and data were collected using an interview schedule. For the present study a total of 250 respondents of 25 villages were selected. The findings of the study showed that mostly, the head of families were middle aged (45.20 %) and 48.00 % of them were educated up to high school and above. Their major occupation (72.80 %) was animal husbandry and agriculture and 48.80 % of the farmers had large landholdingâ€™s (> 5 acres). Total 42.00 % of the farmers had a large herd size of more than 6 animals with cross-bred cattle, 42.00 per cent farmers had medium (4-6 lakhs) annual income. More than half (54.40 %) of the respondents were having experience of 5-10 years for medium farming, most of the responde','Dairy farmer, Socio-economic profile, constraints faced, animal husbandry.','In conclusion, present study highlighted the socio-economic profile of dairy farmers and various constraints faced by them. This study also highlighted the major constraints like the location of veterinary hospital, emergency veterinary services, high cost of vaccination, deworming schedule in animals, common contagious diseases, insect control and their treatment, problems of dead animals disposal and their statistical relationship among all clusters. To minimise the problems, different social and extension activities on dairy farming should be carried out in a way to enhance the knowledge of farmers on the recent technical interventions on scientific dairy management. This will help to convert dairy farming into a profitable dairy enterprise. These findings might be helpful in formulating policies and implementing programmes for the development of dairy entrepreneurship.','-','Kamal Bansod, Jyoti Palod, Shive Kumar, C.B. Singh, S.K. Singh, Sanjay Kumar and Nawal Kishor Singh (2022). Socio-economic Profile and Constraints Faced by Dairy Farmers of Udham Singh Nagar District of Uttarakhand, India. Biological Forum â€“ An Internat'),(3774,'112','Effect of Irrigation Levels and Intervals on Yield, Water Use Efficiency and Economics of Groundnut (Arachis hypogaea L.) Cultivars under Drip System','Mahendra Kumar Rojh , S.R. Bhunia , Sundar Anchra*, Naresh Kumari and Akshika Bhawariya','148 Effect of Irrigation Levels and Intervals on Yield, Water Use Efficiency and Economics of Groundnut _Arachis hypogaea L._ Cultivars under Drip System Sundar Anchra.pdf','',1,'Growing concerns about the environment have made better use of natural resources, less use of chemicals, and more efficient irrigation water use increasingly important goals of sustainable agriculture. As a result, an experiment was conducted during the summer season of 2019 at College of Agriculture, Swami Keshwanand Rajasthan Agricultural University, Rajasthan, India. The treatments consist of 2 levels of irrigation viz., 0.60 and 0.80 PE and two interval levels viz., alternate and 3 days in main plot and three groundnut cultivars viz., HNG-69, HNG-123 and TG-37-A in sub plot. The experiment was laid out in split plot design and replicated thrice. The yield of crop evaluated as pod yield, haulm yield, biological yield and test weight and in terms of water economy water use, water use pattern and water use efficiency. Results revealed that higher pod yield (3117 kg ha-1), kernel yield (2147 kg ha-1), haulm yield (4081 kg ha-1), biological yield (7199 kg ha-1), test weight (446.58 g), ','haulm yield, kernel yield, biological yield, water use efficiency.','HNG-123 produced significantly higher Karnal, haulm and biological yields, and a higher water use efficiency and net return with irrigation at 0.80 PE at alternate day irrigation intervals.','-','Mahendra Kumar Rojh, S.R. Bhunia, Sundar Anchra, Naresh Kumari and Akshika Bhawariya (2022). Effect of Irrigation Levels and Intervals on Yield, Water Use Efficiency and Economics of Groundnut (Arachis hypogaea L.) Cultivars under Drip System. Biological'),(3775,'112','Effect of Non-edible Oil Cakes and Liquid Organic Manure on Growth, Yield and Soil Nutrient Status of Field Bean (Dolichos lablab L.)','Shilpashree Y.P.*, Pradeep S. , Santhosh U.N. , Ganapathi , Dhananjay B.C. and Divya M.','149 Effect of Non-edible Oil Cakes and Liquid Organic Manure on Growth, Yield and Soil Nutrient Status of Field Bean _Dolichos lablab L._ Shilpashree Y.P.pdf','',1,'A field experiment was conducted to study the â€œEffect of non-edible oil cakes and liquid organic manure on growth, yield and soil nutrient status of Field bean (Dolichos lab lab L.)â€ at Organic Farming Research Centre, Zonal Agricultural and Horticultural Research (ZAHRS), Keladi Shivappa Nayaka University of Agricultural and Horticultural Sciences, Navile, Shivamogga, during Kharif 2021. The experiment was laid out in randomized complete block design with nine treatments comprising of two kinds of non edible oil cakes (castor cake and pongamia cake) and two kinds of liquid organic manures (panchagavya and jeevamrutha) were replicated thrice. The experimental results revealed that, application of castor cake along with 3% foliar spray of Panchagavya significantly recorded higher pod yield (34.3 q/ha), higher pod yield per plant (336.4g/plant), pods per plant (34.3), more number of branches (13.6) and higher plant height (93.6 cm) which in turn was on par with the application of pon','Non edible oil cake, Pongamia cake, Castor cake, Panchagavya, Jeeevamrutha.','The study revealed that among organic field bean nutrient management practices either basal application of N equivalent doses of castor cake or pongamia cake along with 3% foliar application of panchagavya at flowering and pod setting stages found to be beneficial in getting higher pod yield in field bean crop.','-','Shilpashree Y.P., Pradeep S., Santhosh U.N., Ganapathi, Dhananjay B.C. and Divya M. (2022). Effect of Non-edible Oil Cakes and Liquid Organic Manure on Growth, Yield and Soil Nutrient Status of Field Bean (Dolichos lablab L.). Biological Forum â€“ An Int'),(3776,'112','Analysis of Marginal value Productivity (MVP) of different Inputs under different size of farm in Paddy and Wheat Crop','Rahul Kumar*, A.M. Jaulkar , Satwik Sahay Bisarya , Hemant Kumar Lamba and Ravi Shinde','150 Analysis of Marginal value Productivity _MVP_ of different Inputs under different size of farm in Paddy and Wheat Crop Rahul Kumar.pdf','',1,'A study has been carried out on analysis of marginal value of productivity (MVP) of different inputs under different size of farm in paddy and wheat crop in the Dabra block of Gwalior district (M.P.). Multistage random sampling method was used to acquire sample farmer, at the first stage of sampling, Dabra block was selected purposively, due to comprise maximum area under paddy and wheat cultivation, at the second stage of sampling, a list of the paddy and wheat growing villages were prepared from selected block (Dabra) then 20 villages were selected randomly, and the third stage of sampling, a list of paddy and wheat growing farmers from each selected village was prepared then classified into five major categories on the basis of their land holding i.e. marginal (less than 1ha) small (1- 2 ha), semi medium (2-4 ha), medium (4-10 ha) and large (10 ha or above). Then a sample of 30 farmers were selected in each category by simple random sampling technique under proportionate allocation ','Marginal Value Productivity (MVP), factors, paddy, wheat, inputs.','It is concluded after the research that, in paddy production, MVP of X1 (seed), X2 (fertilizer), X3 (human labour) X4 (machinery), X5 (plant protection), X6 (manure) and X7 (irrigation) on all size of farms as well as on overall farm were observed less than unity except X5 on large farm, X6 on marginal, semi -small and on medium farm, X7 on medium and large farm size were observed greater than one, whereas in wheat production, MVP of X1 (seed) X2 (fertilizer) X3, (human labour) X4 (machinery) X5 (plant protection) X6 (manure) and X7 (Irrigation) were observed less than unity in all the size of farm as well as overall farm except X3 on overall farm and marginal farm, X4 on medium farm, X5, on medium and marginal farm and X6 on small and semi-medium farm was observed greater than one. Hence over utilized factor (MVP less than 1) may be reduced and underutilized factor (MVP greater than 1) may be increased for enhancing profit of farmers. So, underutilized factors (MVP>1) may be raise','-','Rahul Kumar, A.M. Jaulkar, Satwik Sahay Bisarya, Hemant Kumar Lamba and Ravi Shinde (2022). Analysis of Marginal Value Productivity (MVP) of different Inputs under different Size of Farm in Paddy and Wheat Crop. Biological Forum â€“ An International Journ'),(3777,'107','Soil Suitability Evaluation for Rice (Oryza sativa) in the Chikkarasinakere Hobli, Mandya district of Karnataka','R.S. Meena* and Ashok Kumar','209 Soil Suitability Evaluation for Rice _Oryza sativa_ in the Chikkarasinakere Hobli, Mandya district of Karnataka R.S. Meena.pdf','',1,'The study aimed at assessing the suitability of rice (Oryza sativa) in the soils of Chikkarsinkere Hobli using land resource inventory database on 1:12,500 scale. Thirteen typical pedons were studied for their suitability to grow rice. Dominant soil physico-chemical properties such as texture, depth, drainage, pH, EC etc., were correlated with crop suitability criteria. The soil of the Chikkarsinkere series found to be highly suitable (S1) for rice cultivation whereas, severity of soil limitations such as soil texture, gravel and pH render the soils less suitable to not suitable. The study will be of great helps to various stakeholders such as land user farmers, policy planners and administrators for selecting crops and cropping systems in a particular area.','Rice; Soil suitability evaluation.','','',''),(3778,'107','Hydrothermal conditions of Cotton Field under different Irrigation Levels and Mulches','Shri Rakesh* , S.R. Bhunia , S.M. Kumawat , N.K. Pareek , R.S. Rathore and Amaratpal Singh','210 Hydrothermal Conditions of Cotton Field under Different Irrigation Levels and Mulches Shri Rakesh.pdf','',1,'Water scarcity is one of the main problems to be challenged by the world. Improper management has contributed extensively to the current water scarcity and is also a serious challenge to future food security and environmental sustainability. During the hot summer days (Mayâ€“August), high soil temperature accelerates evaporation at soil surface and reduces soil moisture, with a consequent negative impact on the growth and development of the crop. For satisfactory yield, it is necessary to conserve soil moisture and modify soil temperature for the cultivation of cotton. A field experiments were conducted consecutively for two years during kharif season of 2019 and 2020 at Instructional Farm, College of Agriculture, Swami Keshwanand Rajasthan Agricultural University, Bikaner. The experiment comprising total 20 treatment combinations; five level of irrigation (0.30 PE, 0.45 PE, 0.60 PE, 0.75 PE and 0.75 IW/CPE ratio) and four mulches (no mulch, dust mulch, straw mulch and polythene mulch)','Cotton, Drip irrigation, Mulch, Soil moisture, Soil temperature.','','',''),(3779,'112','A Study on attitude of Farmers towards Conservation Agriculture in Tamil Nadu','Ganapathy Ramu M.* and Asokhan M.','151 A Study on attitude of Farmers towards Conservation Agriculture in Tamil Nadu Ganapathy Ramu M.pdf','',1,'Conservation Agriculture (CA) is a farming system that can prevent losses of arable land while regenerating degraded lands. It promotes maintenance of a permanent soil cover, minimum soil disturbance and diversification of plant species. This study explored the attitude of farmers towards conservation agriculture. An attitude scale consisting of 10 items was developed and administered to 233 farmers of Cuddalore, Villupuram and Tiruvarur districts of Tamil Nadu. The findings of the study revealed that nearly half (48.50%) of the farmers were found to possess moderately favourable attitude towards conservation agriculture followed by less favourable (36.48%) attitude. The farmers with highly favourable attitude towards conservation agriculture found to be least which was about 15.02 per cent. The detailed analysis of the above findings and suggestions to improve their attitude towards conservation agriculture are presented in this paper. ','Attitude, Conservation agriculture, Favourableness.','From the study, it could be concluded that the majority of the respondents had a moderately to less favourable attitude towards conservation agriculture. This clearly shows the lack of awareness and knowledge among farmers about the principles of conservation agriculture. Several practices were miss judged by the farmers and those practices were scientifically proven as a successful conservation practices. Generally, as tillage is reduced, the number of insect pests increases. However, reduced tillage also tends to increase diversity of predators and parasites of crop damaging insects (Stinner and House, 1990). Similarly, under conservation agriculture, crop rotations can help break insect pest, diseases and weed cycles. The minimal soil disturbance and soil cover will protect the biological component of the soil and help with biological tillage, keeping pests and disease under control through biological diversity processes (Hobbs and Govaerts, 2010). According to FAO (2001), adoption ','-','Ganapathy Ramu M. and Asokhan M. (2022). A Study on Attitude of Farmers Towards Conservation Agriculture in Tamil Nadu. Biological Forum â€“ An International Journal, 14(1): 843-847.'),(3780,'112','Exploitation of Bioagents for Managing Root-Knot Nematode, Meloidogyne incognita (Kofoid & White, 1919) Chitwood, 1949 Inciting Black gram (Vigna mungo L.)','Ramavath Abhi*, Pasupuleti Snehalatha and B.K. Dash','152 Exploitation of Bioagents for Managing Root-Knot Nematode, Meloidogyne incognita _Kofoid & White, 1919_ Chitwood, 1949 Inciting Black gram _Vigna mungo L._ Ramavath Abhi.pdf','',1,'To determine the effect of different bio agents i.e. Pseudomonas fluorescens, Trichoderma viride on plant growth parameters and the effect of different treatments on root knot nematode multiplication in Black gram (Vigna mungo L.). The Completely Randomized Design (CRD) was used to set up a pot culture experiment, which was then replicated three times with ten different treatments. The results showed that all of the treatments improved plant growth parameters while reducing root knot nematode proliferation when compared to the control group. T8-(T2+T4) outperformed the other treatments by increasing plant height, root length, shoot fresh weight, shoot dry weight, root fresh weight, root dry weight, and decreasing the number of galls, number of egg masses, total nematode population in 200 cc of soil, and total nematode population in soil and root. Followed by T9 (carbofuran treatment @ 10g/m2) and T5-(T1+T3) (Seed and soil treatment of Trichoderma viride @ 10g/ka and 20g/m2 respectively','Root Knot Nematode, Black gram, Pseudomonas fluorescens, Trichoderma viride.','Because of the rising nematode pest resistance problem and the high demand for safe and high-quality food items, biocontrol will continue to expand in the future. By lowering the burden of poisonous nematicides and associated adverse effects, bioagents can aid in the formation of population regulating processes for major nematode pests. It frequently involves biocontrol chemicals that can interact with either a plant or plant nematodes to inhibit nematode growth and restrict the nematode\'s harmful impact on the host plant. Plant development and yield are aided by bioagents. Finally, studies focused solely on the bioagents would yield useful knowledge for better nematode disease control while avoiding injury to other biosystems. However, there will be a number of obstacles to overcome.','-','Ramavath Abhi, Pasupuleti Snehalatha and B.K. Dash (2022). Exploitation of Bioagents for Managing Root-Knot Nematode, Meloidogyne incognita (Kofoid & White, 1919) Chitwood, 1949 Inciting Black gram (Vigna mungo L.). Biological Forum â€“ An International J'),(3781,'112','Recognize of Elite Carambola (Averrhoe carambola) Germplasms Grown under Rainfed Condition of West Bengal','Subhadip Chowdhury*, Susan Subba, Surajit Mitra, Tuhin Samanth, Sushmita Rana and Santanu Nandi','153 Recognize of Elite Carambola _Averrhoe carambola_ Germplasms Grown under Rainfed Condition of West Bengal Subhadip Chowdhury.pdf','',1,'Experiment was conducted to identify elite carambola germplasm accessions during flowering and fruiting season from different location of Medinipur of West Bengal. To aim of this study was to evaluate flower and chemical analysis of various accessions of carambola in West Bengal. The 12 different germplasms are selected for detailed study of flowering and fruiting season, number of flowering flush, Fruits weight (gm), Fruit colour and shape, fruit length (cm), fruit Equatorial diameter (cm), No of seeds per fruit, TSS (Â°BRIX), titratable acidity (%), total sugar(%), reducing sugar(%), pH and Ascorbic acid (mg/100gm) in each accessions. Highest TSS was noticed in ACC-6 (10.03Â°BRIX), and ascorbic acid ACC-8 (16.64 mg/100gm) total sugar and reducing sugar respectively (6.74% 0 and (5.9%) in ACC-12, highest fruit weight was recorded in ACC- 5 (204.46 gm) and lowest fruit weight and reducing sugar ACC-3 (90.66), (2.86%). After all the parameters analysis ACC-12 is best for further study ','Accessions, carambola, germplasm.','Depend on above data ACC-11 (Tamluk ) considered most elite germplasm due to three flowering in a year and raw consumption is suitable, average fruit size is medium (133.23gm) total sugar and reducing sugar respectively (6.74%) and (5.9%) and Total Soluble Solid (10.460 BRIX). Therefore it can be considered that accession-12 collected from Tamluk is elite accession among twelve accessions beside ACC-11 are also elite germplasm. ','-','Subhadip Chowdhury, Susan Subba, Surajit Mitra, Tuhin Samanth, Sushmita Rana and Santanu Nandi (2022). Recognize of Elite Carambola (Averrhoe carambola) Germplasms Grown under Rainfed Condition of West Bengal. Biological Forum â€“ An International Journal'),(3782,'112','Use of Taxidermy Samples to Generate Forensically Informative Nucleotide Sequences of Globally threatened Species of Small cats including the Species from India by using 12SrRNA and Cytochrome b gene','Archana Bahuguna* and Priyanka Negi','154 Use of Taxidermy Samples to Generate Forensically Informative Nucleotide Sequences of Globally threatened Species of Small cats including the Species from India by using 12SrRNA and CytoBahuguna Archana.pdf','',1,'Although the research on carnivore ecology, including molecular studies are commendable but the molecular study on small cats remain very limited in India as well as in other Asian countries for providing scientific proof for Wildlife forensic and for molecular ecology. As it is difficult to get the samples of small cats for molecular study because of small population size and rare status thus the present study using the taxidermy samples highlight the importance of museum specimens as DNA source material for threatened taxa. Most of the research on cats being skewed more towards big cats and small cats are almost ignored. Small cats are known to be widely spread across globe and they are more specialized than big cats in terms of resource selection. Major challenges to felid populations are habitat loss, the use of felids for the pet, poaching for wildlife parts and products, disappearance of natural prey and cat human conflicts leading to decrease in population of cat species and mak','12SrRNA, Cytochrome b, small cats, wildlife forensic, taxidermy samples. ','As the decline of small cats is occurring worldwide due to habitat fragmentation, and poaching, the present study is useful to provide the strong scientific proofs for the court and also useful for molecular ecology. The study inferred that taxidermy samples could be used effectively for generating molecular reference data for threatened taxa. Geographical signatures developed by haplotype networking could help in tracking the origin of seized materials and for implementation of CITES and other Wildlife protection laws and regulation. ','-','Archana Bahuguna and Priyanka Negi (2022). Use of Taxidermy Samples to Generate Forensically Informative Nucleotide Sequences of Globally threatened Species of Small cats including the Species from India by using 12SrRNA and Cytochrome b gene. Biological '),(3783,'69','Sustainability of Irrigation through GIS-based Trend Analysis of Groundwater Depletion Bhiwani District, Haryana','Rekha Kumari, Shruti Kanga and Suraj Kumar Singh','63 Suraj Kumar Singh.pdf','',1,'India is an agricultural-based country, and groundwater is the major water source for Indian farmers. A study has been conducted to examine the trends and variability of groundwater levels that occurred over the past 20 years from 1999 to 2018 in Bhiwani district, Haryana, India. To better understand the trends and variability, the duration is further divided into two halves from 1999 to 2008 and 2009 to 2018. It has been seen that over the 20 years, the groundwater level had decreased 0.178 meters yearly. The least-square method (LSM) has been used for the trend analysis and coefficient of variance for computing variability. Further, the seasonal groundwater well data were collected throughout the district. After mapping out the groundwater levels, it has been observed that, in the southern and western regions of the district depicting water scarcity condition whereas, in the district\'s northern and eastern region, the groundwater levels are fair enough. From the yearly analysis is ha','Groundwater depletion, Remote Sensing and GIS, Trends, Variability, and LSM.','','',''),(3784,'64','Urban Sprawl and Property Taxation: A comparison for Jurisdiction of South Delhi Municipal Corporation','Anu Singh, Shruti Kanga, Suraj Kumar Singh and Sudhanshu','67 Suraj Kumar Singh.pdf','',1,'In Present day, a universal challenge for any developing country is day by day growing population and sprawl of urban areas. To address this challenge, it is important to study growth of urban areas and identify it pattern of rapid and inadvertent urbanisation. Analysis of urban sprawl is important to regulate and plan infrastructure of any urban body in order to route the infrastructure in organised way. Growth of urban area is directly proportionate to increase in property and increase in population. Municipal corporation is responsible to facilitate any urban settlement in term of sanitization, basic education, health facilities, maintenance of public utilities etc. For any infrastructure development related to residential amenity, municipal body need spend a certain finance. Property tax is one of the major source of revenue for urban municipal bodies. This paper analysis of the urban growth of jurisdiction of South Delhi using geospatial techniques and its comparison of municipal ','Land Use/ Land Cover (LU/LC), spatial metrics, supervised classification, urban growth, urbanization, Property tax.','','',''),(3786,'112','The effect of Integrated Nutrient Supply on Growth and Yield Performance of Wheat (Triticum aestivium L.)','Pankaj Singh* and Awadhesh Kumar Singh','156 The effect of Integrated Nutrient Supply on Growth and Yield Performance of Wheat _Triticum aestivium L._ Pankaj Singh.pdf','',1,'Wheat (Triticum aestivium L.) is the most important stable food crops in the world. The present investigation was taken at Garaila, Jaunpur, (U.P.) to evaluate the effect of integrated use of organic and inorganic nitrogen with and without zinc sulphate on performance of wheat in alkali soil. The experiment was laid out in randomized block design with 9 treatment and 4 replication, treatment consist of control (no fertilizer), NPK, Zinc and press mud. The result reveal that highest plant height of wheat at harvest (102.45 cm), number of tiller per meter at 90 DAT (157.19), number of spike per meter row (68.17), number of grain per spike (48.08), test weight (gm) (38.46), grain yield q/ha (44.31 ), straw yield q/ha (67.91) and harvest index (%) (39.488) was found from T8 [60 kg N (press mud) + 60 Kg nitrogen + Zinc] and closely followed by T9 [90 kg N (press mud) + 30 Kg N + zinc]. The organic press mud reported higher in most above parameter. 100 % nitrogen recorded significantly lower','Sustainable, Organic, Performance, Fertilizer, Integrated and Parameter.','The investigation reveals that the integrated use of organic with fertilizer produce higher and sustainable yield of wheat. ','-','Pankaj Singh and Awadhesh Kumar Singh (2022). The Effect of Integrated Nutrient Supply on Growth and Yield Performance of Wheat (Triticum aestivium L.). Biological Forum â€“ An International Journal, 14(1): 875-878.'),(3787,'112','Survey and Surveillance of Major Greengram (Vigna radiata L.) Growing areas around Udaipur Region to Observe occurrence and Severity of Alternaria Leaf Spot','Neeraj Kumar Meena*, Amit Trivedi , Mahendra Kumar Meena, Suresh Chand Meena and Suresh Kumar','157 Survey and Surveillance of Major Greengram _Vigna radiata L._ Growing areas around Udaipur Region to Observe Occurrence and Severity of Alternaria Leaf Spot Neeraj Kumar Meena.pdf','',1,'Surveys were conducted to study the occurrence and severity of Alternaria leaf spot diseases in major greengram growing areas around Udaipur district of Rajasthan during Kharif 2017 and 2018. The roving survey of the farmerâ€™s field was carried out to study for symptomatology, severity, distribution, and spread of both the diseases at the flowering and pod formation stage of the crop. Among the different areas surveyed, the highest mean disease severity of 48.23 per cent was observed at Sisarma, where the PDI at the flowering stage was recorded to be 41.65 per cent which increased up to 54.82 per cent at the pod formation stage and the lowest mean PDI of 25.72 was observed in Jhallara village here the PDI at flowering and pod formation stage was 21.93 and 29.50 per cent during kharif 2017. In the subsequent year kharif 2018, the intensity of Alternaria leaf spot disease was lower at RCA experimental field, the mean PDI was recorded maximum of 44.85 per cent and the least mean PDI of 2','Alternaria, greengram, Severity, Survey.','The research findings on variability are helpful to know the new biotype in pathogen population that will be useful in screening of breeding lines/ varieties for disease resistance. As such correct and accurate identification will lead to more effective disease control and management, e.g., selecting appropriate organic fungicides or long lasting resistant cultivars. ','-','Neeraj Kumar Meena, Amit Trivedi, Mahendra Kumar Meena, Suresh Chand Meena and Suresh Kumar (2022). Survey and Surveillance of Major Greengram(Vigna radiata L.) Growing Areas Around Udaipur Region to Observe Occurrence and Severity of Alternaria Leaf Spot'),(3788,'112','Evaluation of Bio-Efficacy and Phytotoxicity of Flubendiamide 90 + Deltamethrin 60-150 SC (15% W/V) against Pest Complex in Cucumber','Raghavendra Yaligar*, P.R. Badari Prasad, Hanumanthappa Shrihari, Mansoor, Sujay Hurali, R. Jyothi and Suhasini','158 Evaluation of Bio-Efficacy and Phytotoxicity of Flubendiamide 90 Deltamethrin 60-150 SC _15 WV_ against Pest Complex in Cucumber Raghavendra Yaligar.pdf','',1,'Insecticides have been the first line of defense against insect pests attacking cucumber on account of their effectiveness, ease of application and immediate results. Compounds with novel modes of action, possessing good insecticidal activity against insect pests infesting cucumber, have been advocated for use in the cucumber ecosystem in recent times in general. Hence, under such circumstances, a newer formulation of insecticide needs to be evaluated for its bio-efficacy against major pests of cucumber as the first line of defense. A field experiment was conducted to evaluate the bio-efficacy and phytotoxicity of Flubendiamide 90 + Deltamethrin 60-150 SC (15% w/v) against cucumber pests like red pumpkin beetle, fruit fly and cucumber moth for two seasons. The treatments were: T1- Flubendiamide 90 + Deltamethrin 60-150 SC @ 15+10 g a.i./ha; T2- Flubendiamide 90 + Deltamethrin 60-150 SC @ 18+12g a.i./ha; T3- Flubendiamide 90 + Deltamethrin 60-150 SC @ 22.5+15g a.i./ha; T4- Deltamethrin ','Bioefficacy, phytotoxicity, red pumpkin beetle, fruit fly and cucumber moth.','Among all the tested chemicals flubendiamide 90 + deltamethrin, 60-150 SC @ 22.5+15g a. i./ha was found to be significantly superior in reducing the per cent leaf damage and per cent fruit damage caused by pumpkin beetle, fruit fly, and cucumber moth by suppressing the population. The plots treated with flubendiamide 90 + deltamethrin 60-150 SC @ 22.5+15g a. i./ha produced the maximum fruit yield than other treatments and had less impact on natural enemies so it can be used for the effective management of cucumber pests in the field. Further, flubendiamide 90 + deltamethrin 60-150 SC @ 45+30 g a. i./ha and 90+60 g a. i./ha did not cause phytotoxicity to cucumber crop.','-','Raghavendra Yaligar, P.R. Badari Prasad, Hanumanthappa Shrihari, Mansoor, Sujay Hurali, R. Jyothi and Suhasini (2022). Evaluation of Bio-Efficacy and Phytotoxicity of Flubendiamide 90 + Deltamethrin 60-150 SC (15% W/V) Against Pest Complex in Cucumber. Bi'),(3789,'112','Effect of 6-Benzylaminopurine (BAP) and Kinetin (Kn) on Callus Induction under In vitro Culture of Aloe vera','Sarfraz Ahmad*, M.L. Jakhar, D.K. Gothwal, Manohar Ram, B.L. Kumhar and G.L. Kumawat','159 Effect of 6-Benzylaminopurine _BAP_ and Kinetin _Kn_ on Callus Induction under In vitro Culture of Aloe vera Sarfraz Ahmad.pdf','',1,'The BAP (6-benzylaminopurine) and Kn (Kinetin) are important cytokinins, commonly utilizes in plant tissue culture for micropropagation of various plant species. However, their regeneration response under in vitro condition highly dependent on the culture condition especially concentration of growth regulators. In the present investigation, effects of different levels of BAP and Kn (0.5 to 6.0 mg/l) were evaluated for callus induction in lateral shoot explant of Aloe vera. Differential concentrations of these growth regulators had shown variable effects on callus proliferation in MS (Murashige and Skoog) medium. In BAP incorporated medium, maximum callus induction (0.92 g) was obtained at the concentration of 5.0 mg/l BAP, which was characterized with yellow colour and semi compact texture. However, highest callus weight induced in Kn fortified medium was 1.25 g obtained at 4.0 mg/l. Induced callus morphologically characterizes with whitish yellow colour and friable textured. Among the','Aloe, BAP, Callus, Cytokinin, Kinetin, Micropropagation.','In the present investigation, effects of different levels of BAP and Kn were evaluated for callus induction in lateral shoot explant of Aloe vera. In BAP incorporated medium, maximum callus induction (0.92 g) was obtained at the concentration of 5.0 mg/l, while highest callus weight induced in Kn fortified medium was 1.25 g at 4.0 mg/l. Consequently, Kn found more proficient than BAP for callus proliferation in lateral shoot explant. The results of current investigation give an idea of effectiveness of BAP and Kn for morphogenetic effects on callus proliferation. Thus, for best economical use, the current study may help in the identification of suitable growth regulator with appropriate level for getting maximum callus induction response for in-vitro micropropagation of Aloe vera.','-','Sarfraz Ahmad, M.L. Jakhar, D.K. Gothwal, Manohar Ram, B.L. Kumhar and G.L. Kumawat (2022). Effect of 6-Benzylaminopurine (BAP) and Kinetin (Kn) on Callus Induction Under In vitro Culture of Aloe vera. Biological Forum â€“ An International Journal, 14(1)'),(3790,'112','Vegetative Growth, Seed Yield and Seed Quality of Radish as Influenced by Farmyard Manure and Gypsum','Desh Raj Choudhary*, Avtar Singh, V.P.S. Panghal, Vikash Kumar and Vikram','160 Vegetative Growth, Seed Yield and Seed Quality of Radish as Influenced by Farmyard Manure and Gypsum Desh Raj Choudhary.pdf','',1,'A field study was conducted at Research Farm of the Department of Vegetable Science and laboratory studies were conducted in the Department of Seed Science and Technology, CCS Haryana Agricultural University, Hisar. The three levels of farmyard manure 0, 10 and 20 t/ha and 0, 50 and 100% neutralization of sodic water by gypsum were laid out in factorial RBD with three replications. Individually and combination of FYM and gypsum significantly influenced the vegetative growth, seed yield and seed quality in radish. Among the interaction combinations, the plant height at 80 DAP (120.56, 124.9 & 122.76cm), number of leaves per plant at 80 DAP (23.93, 26.07 & 25.0), number of primary branches per plant (7.73, 9.0 & 8.37), number of seeds per pod (5.80, 6.60 & 6.20), seed yield (643.33, 681.11 & 662.22kg/ha), test weight (10.31, 11.61 & 10.96g), seed germination (74.87, 78.27 & 76.57%) and vigour index-I (2711, 2953.9 & 2832.5) were recorded significantly maximum in F2G2 treatment where 20 ','FYM, Gypsum, Sodic water, Seed quality, Seed yield, Vegetative growth.','Thus, it is concluded that the F2G2 (20 t/ha FYM + 10 t/ha gypsum for 100% neutralization of sodic water) is effective in increasing the vegetative growth, seed yield and seed quality of radish crop.','-','Desh Raj Choudhary, Avtar Singh, V.P.S. Panghal, Vikash Kumar and Vikram (2022). Vegetative Growth, Seed Yield and Seed Quality of Radish as Influenced by Farmyard Manure and Gypsum. Biological Forum â€“ An International Journal, 14(1): 895-898.'),(3791,'112','Effect of different Organic Sources of Nutrients on Net Return and Benefit: Cost Ratio of Pomegranate (Punica granatum L.) cv. Bhagwa','R.K. Jat, M.L. Jat*, P.C. Joshi and Jitendra Singh Shivran','161 Effect of different Organic Sources of Nutrients on Net Return and Benefit Cost Ratio of Pomegranate _Punica granatum L._ cv. Bhagwa M.L. Jat.pdf','',1,'An experiment was conducted to study the net return and benefit:cost ratio (B:C) of pomegranate (Punica granatum L.) \'Bhagwa\' as influenced by different organic sources of nutrients. During Mrig bahar (June-January) 2017-18 and 2018-19, the experiment was conducted at College Farm, College of Horticulture, Sardarkrushinagar Dantiwada Agricultural University, Jagudan, District-Mehsana in Gujarat, India. The current study used a Randomized Block Design with three replications and twenty-two treatments using four different organic manures as a source of nitrogen, including farm yard manure, vermicompost, poultry manure, and neem cake, as well as recommended doses of manure and fertilizers based on plant age with or without biofertilizers (Azotobacter, PSB, and KMB) and biopesticides (Trichoderma viride and Paecilomyces lilacinus). The results based on pooled data revealed that the maximum net return (4,12,840/ha) and BCR (3.26) recorded by application of 100 % RDN through poultry manure ','Pomegranate, organic manure, biopesticides, biofertilizer, net return, benefit:cost ratio (B:C).','From the forgoing discussion, it could be concluded on the basis of pooled data that the application of 100 % RDN through poultry manure + 50 ml PSB + 25 ml KMB + 5 g Trichoderma viride + 5 ml Paecilomyces lilacinus is beneficial for obtaining good economic returns in pomegranate cv. Bhagwa.','-','R.K. Jat, M.L. Jat, P.C. Joshi and Jitendra Singh Shivran (2022). Effect of Different Organic Sources of Nutrients on Net Return and Benefit:Cost Ratio of Pomegranate (Punica granatum L.) cv. Bhagwa. Biological Forum â€“ An International Journal, 14(1): 8'),(3792,'112','A Study of the Technological Gap between different Categories of Wheat Growers in Hoshangabad, Harda and Sehore Districts of Madhya Pradesh','Mangi Lal Jat*, D. K. Jaiswal and Y.S. Saharawat','162 A Study of the Technological Gap between different Categories of Wheat Growers in Hoshangabad, Harda and Sehore Districts of Madhya Pradesh Mangi Lal Jat.pdf','',1,'Wheat is an important nutrient in our everyday diet. Despite the fact that farmers in northern India have been cultivating wheat for a long time, many do not have a thorough understanding of wheat and its new varieties production procedures. The present study was conducted to know the technological gap faced by wheat growers among different categories of farmers in Hoshangabad, Harda and Sehore districts of Madhya Pradesh. 324 wheat growers, 9 farmers (3 big, 3 medium and 3 small farmers) were selected randomly from each (thirty-six) selected village of nine blocks of Hosangabad, Hadra and Sehore districts (M.P.). In terms of technological gap, the farmers of three categories, namely small, medium, and big farmers, differ. It is clear from that in case of small farmers 20.37 percent had low technological gap, 38.88 per cent medium and 40.74 percent farmers were in high technological gap. Of the medium farmers categories 37.96 per cent had low, 12.03 per cent medium and 50.00 percent ha','Wheat growers; Technology Gap; Adoption; Category of Farmers, Malwa Region','To close the gap, improved and low-cost technologies must be provided periodically through an extensive extension system with appropriate training programmers for all types of farmers. The majority of farmers have a difficulty with a lack of up-to-date information regarding wheat production technology. A new extension strategy should be adopted to build farmers\' favorable attitudes toward scientific methods so that they comprehend the value of scientific suggestions and reap the benefits of their crops. It is critical to determine which components of technology farmers are able to keep and to what extent for effective technology transfer in agriculture today. As a result, it is imperative that the gap be bridged by adequate training in new innovation. As a result, a blanket advice for all types of farmers will not suffice. While planning any training programmed for the wheat producers in this region, particular needs and interests should be taken into account. Extension professionals w','-','Mangi Lal Jat D. K. Jaiswal and Y.S. Saharawat (2022). A Study of the Technological Gap Between Different Categories of Wheat Growers in Hoshangabad, Harda and Sehore Districts of Madhya Pradesh. Biological Forum â€“ An International Journal, 14(1): 904-'),(3793,'112','Development of Geomorphological Instantaneous Unit Hydrograph (GIUH) Model for a Watershed of Damodar Valley Corporation, Hazaribagh (Jharkhand), India','Safi Hassan, R. Suresh and S.K. Nirala*','163 Development of Geomorphological Instantaneous Unit Hydrograph _GIUH_ Model for a Watershed of Damodar Valley Corporation, Hazaribagh _Jharkhand_, India S.K. Nirala.pdf','',1,'A GIUH model was developed using Nash (1959) and Rodriguez-Itrube (1982) methods to compute peak discharge (qpeak) and time to peak (tpeak). The model was calibrated and validated for five storm events, i.e. June 24 -25 (1992), October 12 -13 (1993), November 2-3(1993), June 28 (1994) and August 6 (1996) by comparing their ordinates with the ordinates of IUH The GIUH was tested with APE of the ordinate of peak discharge. On comparison, it was found that, most of the GIUH models over estimated the runoff at initial stage, while underestimated at the latter stage in comparison to the IUHs, which was mainly due to consideration of constant value of Î¦-index, for computation of effective rainfall. The absolute prediction errors (A.P.E.) were computed to be 5.97, 18.09, 23.32, 9.64 and 7.52% of the ordinates of peak discharge for the storm events of June 24 -25 (1992), October 12 -13 (1993), November 2 -3 (1993), June 28 (1994) and August 6 (1996), respectively.','Geomorphological characteristics, watershed, instantaneous unit hydrograph, geomorphological instantaneous unit hydrograph.','Instantaneous Unit Hydrograph was developed for six storms events of the Khuwatri watershed, which involve the computation of shape parameter (n) and scale parameter (K) based on observed rainfall-runoff database. The values of n and K for the selected storms were computed to be (1.12, 1.22), (2.97, 0.34), (2.82, 0.85), (3.39, 0.74), (1.02, 1.43) and (1.07, 1.57) for storms 1, 2, 3, 4, 5 and 6 respectively. The ordinates of IUH were computed at half hour interval because of small size of watershed. The comparison of GIUH model with storm IUH was performed by determining the Percentage Error (PE) and Absolute Prediction Error (APE) for the peak discharge (qp) and time to peak (tp). The Value of APE for qp and tp were found 25.35 % and 27.27 %, respectively.','-','Safi Hassan, R. Suresh and S.K. Nirala (2022). Development of Geomorphological Instantaneous Unit Hydrograph (GIUH) Model for a Watershed of Damodar Valley Corporation, Hazaribagh (Jharkhand), India. Biological Forum â€“ An International Journal, 14(1): 9'),(3794,'112','Biology of Pulse Beetle (Callosbruchus chinensis) on Green Gram under Laboratory condition','Sangita Limma*, S.P.N. Singh and M.K. Singh','164 Biology of Pulse Beetle _Callosbruchus chinensis_ on Green Gram Under Laboratory Condition Sangita Limma.pdf','',1,'Laboratory study on biology of pulse beetle (C. chinensis ) on stored green gram revealed that insect complete one generation from late August to first week of October when average temperature and relative humidity was 32.26 to 24.87o C and 89.19 to 75.16 per cent, respectively. The incubation period, larval and pupal period and total developmental period of C. chinensis was varied from 3 to 6 days, 21-26 days and 31 to 42 days, respectively. The adult duration was 6 to 11 days where male lived longer than female. Pre oviposition, oviposition and post oviposition period was zero to one day, 6 to 8 days and 1 to 2 days, respectively. Total number of egg laid by five female was 525 with an average of 105 eggs per female. Sex ratio of male to female was 1: 1.27. The hatching percentage was 92 per cent. The multiplication rate from 5 pair of insect was 435 with an average of 87 from a single pair at the end of generation. ','Pulse beetle, Green gram, Callosobruchus chinensis, biology. ','The current research paves the way to provide awareness to the farmers about the nature and extent of damage caused by the pulse beetle in stored green gram. For management purpose it is essential to know about the biology of pest and the studies on biology of pulse beetle, Callosobruchus chinensis L. will help in adopting proper control measures against this pest.','-','Sangita Limma, S.P.N. Singh and M.K. Singh (2022). Biology of Pulse Beetle (Callosbruchus chinensis) on Green Gram Under Laboratory Condition. Biological Forum â€“ An International Journal, 14(1): 914-918.'),(3795,'112','Superheated Steam Drying of Potato Slices under Low Pressure conditions','I. Narmatha*, S. Ganapathy, M. Balakrishnan, I. Geethalakshmi and P. Subramanian','165 Superheated Steam Drying of Potato Slices under Low Pressure conditions I. Narmatha.pdf','',1,'Superheated steam drying is an innovative, novel technology with high potential benefits compared to conventional hot-air drying. The approach is becoming more common, particularly in drying of food materials. A study was conducted to explore the influence of the air-less drying method for vegetables. Drying studies of potato were conducted in a convective batch dryer with superheated steam at low pressure as a drying medium. Experiments were conducted at drying temperature ranging between 70 and 90Â°C and absolute pressure levels of 0.5 and 0.8 bar with steam flow rate at 0.1 and 0.3 m3/h, respectively. Potato slices dried at 90Â°C, 0.5 bar pressure were found to have an enhanced drying rate of 0.1 to 1.5 g/min with reduced drying time of about 130-150 min. In terms of quality attributes, samples exposed to a lower temperature level of 70Â°C and low pressure of 0.5 bar had promising results. The volume, porosity (Æ), rehydration ratio and percentage shrinkage of the dried samples wer','superheated steam, low pressure, potato, drying, quality.','The detailed experimental investigation of the superheated steam drying under low conditions showed that, the process produced superior quality final dried potato slices. It was noted that the effect of superheated steam drying temperature was more significant when compared to that of the operating pressure. The operating pressure and temperature affected the drying characteristics in an exponential manner. The vegetable \r\nslices dried under high temperature 90Â°C, low pressure of 0.5 bar had higher drying characteristics. Whereas, the physical attributes of samples exposed to low temperature of 70Â°C and low pressure of 0.5 bar had better results. The steam flow rate did not show any significant effect on both drying characteristics as well as physical attributes of the model vegetable material. This particular drying method yielded potatoes with better rehydration ability and higher porosity over the studied operating parameters. Hence, this drying method is found to be promising for','-','I. Narmatha, S. Ganapathy, M. Balakrishnan, I. Geethalakshmi and P. Subramanian (2022). Superheated Steam Drying of Potato Slices under Low Pressure conditions. Biological Forum â€“ An International Journal, 14(1): 919-925.'),(3796,'112','Antagonistic Potential of Endophytic Trichoderma asperellum against Alternaria alternata causing Leaf Blight in Watermelon','Pradeep M.*, Eraivan Arutkani Aiyanathan K., Kalpana K., Shanthi M. and Senthil K.','166 Antagonistic Potential of Endophytic Trichoderma asperellum against Alternaria alternata causing Leaf Blight in Watermelon Pradeep M.pdf','',1,'The present study was conducted to assess the potential of fungal endophytes against Alternaria alternata causing leaf blight disease in watermelon. Totally of sixteen Alternaria isolates were isolated using tissue segment method and confirmed as Alternaria sp. based on the cultural and morphological characteristics. The virulence of the pathogen isolates was confirmed through pathogenicity test. Among the 16 isolates WTA 7 was identified as highly virulent isolate. Fifteen fungal endophytes were isolated from healthy watermelon plants and identified as Trichoderma spp. and Fusarium spp. based on the cultural and conidial characters. The effect of 15 endophytes were tested against the highly virulent Alternaria isolate WTA 7 using dual culture technique. Among the 15 endophytes, isolate WTD 5 was found to be highly potential in inhibiting the pathogenic isolate WTA 7. The next best isolate was WTD 6, which exhibited 70 % inhibition of pathogen over control. The least mycelial reduction','Watermelon, Leaf blight, Alternaria alternata, Trichoderma asperellum, Molecular characterization, Antagonism, Biological control.','The present study illustrated the effectiveness of 15 endophytic fungi against leaf blight pathogen A.alternata. Among the 15 endophytic fungal isolates, one isolate WTD 5 showed the maximum antagonistic activity against the pathogen and was confirmed as Trichoderma asperellum through molecular approach. The biocontrol agents are alternative method for management of diseases and it is free from hazardous for environment and human health.','-','Pradeep M., Eraivan Arutkani Aiyanathan K., Kalpana K., Shanthi M. and Senthil K. (2022). Antagonistic Potential of Endophytic Trichoderma asperellum against Alternaria alternata causing Leaf Blight in Watermelon. Biological Forum â€“ An International Jou'),(3797,'112','Effect of Sulphur Levels and different Micronutrients on Growth attributes of Garlic (Allium sativum L.)','Praveen Choyal*, O.P. Garhwal, Manju Netwal and Radhe Shyam Kherwa','167 Effect of Sulphur Levels and different Micronutrients on Growth attributes of Garlic _Allium sativum L._ Praveen Choyal.pdf','',1,'The field experiment was conducted at the Horticulture Farm, SKN College of Agriculture, Jobner, Jaipur (Rajasthan) during Rabi seasons 2019-20 and 2020-21. Deficiency of micronutrients during the last three decades has become a major constraint to production and productivity of vegetables in general and garlic in particular. Thus, there is an urgent need for correction of individual nutrient deficiency and for arresting its further spread. The lower productivity of Indian garlic is primarily due to susceptibility of crop to both biotic and abiotic factors. Imbalanced nutrition is treated as one of the major abiotic factors which adversely affects growth and yield of garlic. Keeping these points in view, foliar application of boron, zinc, iron and molybdenum as micronutrients and basal doses of sulphur as a macronutrient were used in the experimental crop to study the impact on growth, yield and storage of garlic. The result showed that soil application of sulphur 60 kg/ha and foliar a','Garlic, Plant Height, Chlorophyll, Number of leaves and Pooled analysis.','Based on the results of two years experiments, it may be concluded that soil application of sulphur at 60 kg/ha combined with foliar spray of Zinc sulphate at 0.6% proved the most superior treatment combination in garlic. Although, sulphur application at 40 kg/ha along with foliar application of zinc sulphate at 0.6 % was found at par to it.','-','Praveen Choyal, O.P. Garhwal, Manju Netwal and Radhe Shyam Kherwa (2022). Effect of Sulphur Levels and different Micronutrients on Growth Attributes of Garlic (Allium sativum L.). Biological Forum â€“ An International Journal, 14(1): 932-935.'),(3798,'112','Evaluation of Bioefficacy of Metaldehyde 2.5% Dry Pellet against Snails in Cabbage and its Phytotoxicity','Badari Prasad P.R., Raghavendra Yaligar, Sujay Hurali, Mansoor, Suhasini and Hanumanthappa Shrihari','168 Evaluation of Bioefficacy of Metaldehyde 2.5Dry Pellet against Snails in Cabbage and its Phytotoxicity Badari Prasad P.R.pdf','',1,'Snails are important pest for a wide range of fruit orchards, ornamental plants, vegetables and field crops in India. They tend to feed on the softer parts of plants causing feeding damage to plant seedlings, with irregular holes in leaves, roots, tubers and fruits, decrease yield or cause loss of quality. Hence under such circumstances, a field experiment was conducted to evaluate the bio-efficacy and phytotoxicity of metaldehyde 2.5% dry pellet against snails in cabbage during Rabi, 2020, and Kharif, 2021. The treatments were: T1- Metaldehyde 2.5% dry pellet @ 12.5g a.i./ha; T2- Metaldehyde 2.5% dry pellet @ 37.5g a.i./ha; T3- Metaldehyde 2.5% dry pellet @ 62.5g a.i./ha; T4- Metaldehyde 2.5% dry pellet @ 87.5g a.i./ha; T5- Carbofuran 3% GR @ 30g a.i./ha; T6- Thiodicarb 75% WP @ 1-1.3g a.i./ha; T7- Untreated control. Results revealed that among the different treatments Metaldehyde 2.5% dry pellet @ 87.5 g a.i./ha recorded significantly zero snails as compared to 6.00 in untreated chec','Bio-efficacy, Phytotoxicity, Snails and cabbage','Based on the evaluations it can be concluded that the insecticide Metaldehyde 2.5% dry pellet @ 87.5 g a.i./ha was found effective in reducing the snail populations and obtaining a higher head yield. Further, it had less impact on natural enemies and did not cause phytotoxicity to the cabbage crop. So Metaldehyde 2.5% dry pellet @ 87.5 g a.i./ha can be used for the effective management of snail pests in the field.','-','Badari Prasad P.R., Raghavendra Yaligar, Sujay Hurali, Mansoor, Suhasini and Hanumanthappa Shrihari (2022). Evaluation of Bioefficacy of Metaldehyde 2.5% Dry Pellet Against Snails in Cabbage and its Phytotoxicity. Biological Forum â€“ An International Jou'),(3799,'112','Estimation of White Grub Population and their Infestation in Groundnut at Jaipur Region','Tara Yadav and A.S. Baloda','169 Estimation of White Grub Population and their Infestation in Groundnut at Jaipur Region Tara Yadav.pdf','',1,'The light trap studies were conducted at five different locations, viz. Jaipur, Phagi, Amer, Chomu and Shahpura in Jaipur district of Rajasthan during kharif seasons of 2018 and 2019. At survey locations the maximum mean grub population in the soil was observed at Chomu tehsil (4.30Â±0.36 /ft3) followed by Jaipur tehsil (4.00Â±0.44 /ft3) and Phagi tehsil (2.75Â±.55 /ft3) at 100 per cent frequency with mean per cent infestation of 44.39, 38.95 and 35.57 per cent, respectively due to white grub. Minimum mean grub population (2.45Â±0.53 /ft3) as well as percent infestation (27.44%) due to white grub was observed at Shapura tehsil.','Mean grub population, percent infestation, frequency and survey locations','The light trap studies were conducted at five different locations, viz. Jaipur, Phagi, Amer, Chomu and Shahpura in Jaipur district of Rajasthan during kharif seasons of 2018 and 2019. At survey locations the maximum mean grub population in the soil was observed at Chomu tehsil (4.30Â±0.36 /ft3) followed by Jaipur tehsil (4.00Â±0.44 /ft3) and Phagi tehsil (2.75Â±.55 /ft3) at 100 per cent frequency with mean per cent infestation of 44.39, 38.95 and 35.57 per cent, respectively due to white grub. Minimum mean grub population (2.45Â±0.53 /ft3) as well as percent infestation (27.44%) due to white grub was observed at Shapura tehsil.','-','Tara Yadav and A.S. Baloda (2022). Estimation of White Grub Population and their Infestation in Groundnut at Jaipur Region. Biological Forum â€“ An International Journal, 14(1): 941-943.'),(3800,'112','Influence of Different Irrigation and Nitrogen Levels on Water and Nitrogen Use Efficiency of Cluster bean (Cyamopsis tetragonoloba)','Rakesh Kumar and N.K. Pareek','170 Influence of Different Irrigation and Nitrogen Levels on Water and Nitrogen Use Efficiency of Cluster bean _Cyamopsis tetragonoloba_ Rakesh Kumar.pdf','',1,'The field experiment was carried out at research farm, Agricultural research sub-station, Hanumangarh, Swami Keshwanand Rajasthan Agricultural University, Bikaner during Kharif, 2016 to see the impact of different irrigation and nitrogen levels on water and nitrogen use efficiency of cluster bean (Cyamopsis tetragonoloba). For that, Cluster bean variety RGC-1055 with seed rate of 16 kg ha-1 was planted using 3 levels of irrigation (100, 200 and 300 mm) and 4 level of nitrogen (0, 20, 40 and 60 kg ha-1) and studied in Split plot Design with three replication. Results showed that the different irrigation and nitrogen levels significantly influenced the yield, total nitrogen uptake, water and nitrogen use efficiency and profitability of cluster bean. The irrigation level 200 mm recorded significantly superior grain yield, PEN, PFPN and economics over 100 mm. The total nitrogen uptake, AEN and REN were higher in irrigation level 300 mm over both the lower level. The irrigation water produ','Cluster bean, Irrigation and Nitrogen','From the results of the present investigation, it was concluded that irrigation at 200 mm found to be effective in improving the grain yield, PEN, PFPN, INUE and gross return of cluster bean. In different irrigation levels, irrigation at 100 mm found effective to enhance the irrigation water productivity of cluster bean. Among the nitrogen levels, application of 40 kg N ha-1 was found to be effective for improving grain yield, irrigation water productivity, PEN and INUE.','-','Rakesh Kumar and N.K. Pareek (2022). Influence of Different Irrigation and Nitrogen Levels on Water and Nitrogen Use Efficiency of Cluster bean (Cyamopsis tetragonoloba). Biological Forum â€“ An International Journal, 14(1): 944-949.'),(3801,'112','Status and Management of Dry Bubble Disease of White Button Mushroom (Agaricus bisporus) under the Conditions of Sub Tropics of Jammu','Sardar Singh Kakraliya, Shazia Paswal, Dechan Choskit, Sheikh Saima Khusbhoo and Stazin Diskit','171 Status and Management of Dry Bubble Disease of White Button Mushroom _Agaricus bisporus_ under the Conditions of Sub Tropics of Jammu Sardar Singh Kakraliya.pdf','',1,'Axtensive survey was conducted during spring and autumn seasons of 2019-20 and 2020-21 in major mushroom growing areas of Jammu, Samba and Udhampur districts of Jammu division to record the status of the disease. The survey revealed that dry bubble disease was prevalent in all mushroom growing districts with varied degrees of incidence. The overall mean disease incidence was 6.52 per cent both years in three districts, the disease incidence was more (5.76 and 6.22 %) in spring than in autumn season (6.27 and 7.39 %). The highest disease incidence (7.22 %) in Jammu district followed by (6.49 %) in Samba district and the lowest disease incidence (5.85 %) in Udhampur district. In vitro study of different bio agents against Veticillium fungicola revealed that inhibition of mycelia growth was maximum with Trichoderma harzianum (46.43 %) followed by Trichoderma viride (35.80 %) and P. fluorescens (17.43 %). In vitro evaluation of different botanicals viz., Azadirachta indica(neem leaf), Aza','Agaricus bisporus, Dry bubble disease, Plant extracts, Verticillium fungicola.','White button mushroom cultivation in Jammu division in primarily in the hands of resource-poor growers. The prevalence of unhygienic conditions in and around the mushroom farms and lack of pasteurization facility result in recurrence of wet bubble and other mould diseases causing heavy economic losses to these growers. The disease can be managed at farmerâ€™s field levels by the use of safer fungicides, botanicals and bio agents on or in the casing soils and adhering to farm sanitation.\r\nThis study has found two most promising botanicals, A. indica and A. indica +Lantana camara that were able to inhibit the infection of dry bubble disease (V. fungicola) of white button mushroom (A. bisporus) under both in-vitro and in-vivo conditions. In in-vitro study, A. indica and A.indica + Lantana camara have been best treatments among all botanicals as they inhibit the growth of V. fungicola. In in-vivo study Incorporation of botanicals such as A. indica or A. indica +Lantana camara as dry powder','-','Sardar Singh Kakraliya, Shazia Paswal, Dechan Choskit, Sheikh Saima Khusbhoo and Stazin Diskit (2022). Status and Management of Dry Bubble Disease of White Button Mushroom (Agaricus bisporus) under the Conditions of Sub Tropics of Jammu. Biological Forum '),(3802,'112','Effect of N P Level and Zinc Nutrition on Growth Attributes and Yield of Barley (Hordeum vulgare L.) in Southern Rajasthan','Piyush Choudhary, S.L. Mundra, D. Singh, Arvind Verma, D.P. Singh, R.K. Sharma, D. Chouhan, Hemraj Jat and Somdutt','172 Effect of N P Level and Zinc Nutrition on Growth Attributes and Yield of Barley (Hordeum vulgare L.) in Southern Rajasthan Piyush Choudhary.pdf','',1,'A field experiment was conducted during Rabi 2017-18 at Instructional Farm, Rajasthan College of Agriculture, Udaipur to find out the effect of nitrogen, phosphorus level and zinc nutrition on growth attributes and yield of Barley (Hordeum vulgare L.) in southern Rajasthan. The experiment consisted of 12 treatments combinations comprising 4 N P levels (75, 100, 125 and 150% RDF) and 3 zinc levels (2.5 and 5.0 kg ha-1). The experiment was laid out in factorial randomized block design with three replications. The experimental field was clay loam in texture, slightly alkaline in reaction (pH 7.8), medium in available nitrogen (295.30 kg ha-1) and phosphorus (24.5 kg ha-1), medium in potassium (292.70 kg ha-1) and low in available zinc status (0.58 ppm). Application of 125% RDF significantly increased plant height, dry matter accumulation at all the stages, CGR during 90-120 DAS and RGR of barley crop during 30-60 DAS over 75 and 100% RDF. Application of 125% RDF statistically increased gr','Barley, Growth attributes, yield, protein content, maize.','Looking to significant response of N P fertilization, in future the experiment may be conducted with seed treatment and soil application along with some organic sources to sustain soil health as well as productivity. ','-','Piyush Choudhary, S.L. Mundra, D. Singh, Arvind Verma, D.P. Â¬Singh, R.K. Sharma, D. Chouhan, Hemraj Jat and Somdutt (2022). Effect of N P Level and Zinc Nutrition on Growth Attributes and Yield of Barley (Hordeum vulgare L.) in Southern Rajasthan. Biolog'),(3803,'112','Impact of Pruning Time on Shoot Sprouting and Yield Attributes of Guava (Psidium guajava L.) Genotypes','S. M. Choudhary*, A. M. Musmade and S. S. Kulkarni','173 Impact of Pruning Time on Shoot Sprouting and Yield Attributes of Guava _Psidium guajava L._ Genotypes S.M. Choudhary.pdf','',1,'The present investigations were conducted on seven different genotypes such as RHR-Guv-58, RHR-Guv-60, RHR-Guv-14, RHR-Guv-16, RHR-Guv-3, RHR-Guv-6 and Sardar with five pruning time i.e. 15th May, 15th June, 15th July, 15th August, 15th September and no pruning (control). Guava trees bear terminally, thatâ€™s why pruning influences more shoots sprouting, flowering, fruiting and consequently increase in guava yield. The results revealed that the significantly minimum time required for initiation of new shoots was observed in Sardar with 15th May pruning time. Similarly, a maximum number of sprouted shoots per plant was recorded in pruning time control and Sardar. The significantly maximum number of fruit was recorded in Sardar with 15th May pruning time. The significantly maximum length, diameter and weight were observed in RHR-Guv-14 genotype with 15th June pruning time. Pruning on 15th September was found to be better in escape of fruit fly infestation. 15th May pruning time, Sardar a','Guava, Pruning time, Sprouting shoot, Genotypes, Marketable yield.','The results of present investigation, it can be concluded that pruning on 15th July was best to obtain maximum marketable yield. The genotype RHR-Guv-14 is better in large fruit size, more fruit weight and yield, thus it can be evaluated for cultivation as mrigbhar crop. ','-','S. M. Choudhary, A. M. Musmade and S. S. Kulkarni (2022). Impact of Pruning Time on Shoot Sprouting and Yield Attributes of Guava (Psidium guajava L.) Genotypes. Biological Forum â€“ An International Journal, 14(1): 965-971.'),(3804,'114','Plant Composition in Traditional Homegardens of Berung Village, East Siang, Arunachal Pradesh','Yogesh Kumar*, Haffis Mohammed, Aditya Pratap Singh, Thiyam Jefferson Singh, Tantulung Tatan, Kabir K., Sagar Tasing, Telek Yoka and Hashim Mohammed S.','1 Plant Composition in Traditional Homegardens of Berung Village, East Siang, Arunachal Pradesh Yogesh Kumar.pdf','',1,'The present study was carried out in Berung village of Arunachal Pradesh to investigate the species diversity in the traditional homegardens and their traditional uses by the locals. The study revealed that stratification of plant species was common in homegardens, which makes them typical agroforestry systems that are somewhat similar to forests. Based on the average height of the plant species, the study showed four different strata. Of the recorded 80 species, there are 9 categories of plants with different traditional uses based on the products derived from the spp. viz., fruits, vegetables, cereals, medicines and tannin, timber, grasses for thatching and broom making, and fuelwood. Out of the total percentage of plants in the traditional homegardens, 23% were found to be used for vegetable purposes, whereas 20% for medicinal and 19% were fruit-yielding plants.','Homegardens, Stratification, Species diversity, Plant uses, Traditional, Survey','','',''),(3805,'112','Application of Correlation and Path Coefficient to find out Factors which affect total Production and Productivity of Moong','Chetan Kumar Saini*, Neelash Patel and Rishabh','174 Application of Correlation and Path Coefficient to find out Factors which affect total Production and Productivity of Moong Chetan Kumar Saini.pdf','',1,'Various models and techniques have used to investigate the effect of various factors associated with production. The most frequent use method to analysing the effect of each independent variable on the dependent variable is multiple regression analysis and especially path analysis. Path analysis is a direction specific. Basically, itâ€™s enables us to investigate the direct and indirect effect of various factors on a single factor. Here we try to find out various factorsâ€™ direct and indirect effect on moong yield production. The data show plant height is the most directly affecting factor whereas pest Jassid is the most indirectly effecting factors of moong yield production. ','Correlation, regression analysis, path coefficient, Moong. ','Path analyses showed that out of 5 yield attributing characters viz., plant height, plant weight, number of pods per plant, pod height per plant and no. of jassid per plant studied. Plant height (0.9064) had more direct effect and number of pod per plant vs no. of jassid per plant (1.0506) had more indirect effect towards seed yield in jassid on moong crop.','-','Chetan Kumar Saini, Neelash Patel and Rishabh (2022). Application of Correlation and Path Coefficient to Find Out Factors which Affect Total Production and Productivity of Moong. Biological Forum â€“ An International Journal, 14(1): 972-975.'),(3806,'112','Study of Morphological Breeding Traits in Mungbean [Vigna radiata (L.) Wilczek] Genotypes as per DUS Guidelines','Tasphiya Elahi*, R. S. Shukla, Sanjay Kumar Singh and Pratik Kumar','175 Study of Morphological Breeding Traits in Mungbean [Vigna radiata _L._ Wilczek] Genotypes as per DUS Guidelines Tasphiya Elahi.pdf','',1,'An experiment was conducted to study 14 mungbean genotypes for 19 morphological traits as per DUS guidelines at Jawaharlal Nehru Krishi Vishwa Vidyalaya, Jabalpur (M.P.) India, during Kharif 2020 as well as in summer 2021. All the genotypes were grown in randomized block design in a replication of three in the seasons mentioned above. Morphological traits were recorded as per crop DUS guideline approved by PPV & FR, New Delhi. Maximum morphological variability was recorded in leaf vein colour, colour of petal, leaf colour, leaflet lobe, pod colour, pod curvature, seed lusture and anthocyanin colouration. The distribution frequency of the traits like seed size (7.69%) followed by colour of pre-mature pods (7.14%), leaf vein colour (7.14%) and anthocyanin colouration (7.14%) was very low. Genotype SL 668 was reported as diverse mungbean variety dominated with green with pigmented suture in pre mature pod colour and also dominated with large seed size. The trait anthocyanin colouration wa','Greengram, Morphological characterization, variability, Distinctness, Uniformity and Stability (DUS), breeding traits.','The study highlighted the importance of introducing new material in the breeding programmes to broaden the genetic base of the crop. Thus, characterization of elite improved lines holds an important significance in the identification of lines and their registration with PPV&FRA and maintenance of line having the information of genetic base. Lines found with unique traits and present only in few of the genotypes will be of great importance for the development of morphologically diverse breeding populations. These lines with unique morphological identity will be considered as a varietal marker in the seed production chain to maintain the genetic purity of the variety. These traits may also be useful when varieties may mix and purelines can easily beisolated very easily by normal selection method.','-','Tasphiya Elahi, R. S. Shukla, Sanjay Kumar Singh and Pratik Kumar (2022). Study of Morphological Breeding Traits in Mungbean [Vigna radiata (L.) Wilczek] Genotypes as per DUS Guidelines. Biological Forum â€“ An International Journal, 14(1): 976-981.'),(3807,'112','Sclerotium Rot is a Chronic Disease of Sunflower- Comprehensive Review','Ajit Singh*, Rakesh Punia, Vinod Malik, Pavitra Kumari, Neeraj Kumar, Abhishek Kumar and Vipul','176 Sclerotium Rot is a Chronic Disease of Sunflower- Comprehensive Review Ajit Singh.pdf','',1,'Sunflower (Helianthus annuus L.) is one of the most widely grown oilseed crops in the world. Sunflower mostly grown as zaid crop which requires cool climate during germination, warm weather from seedling to flowering and sunny and non-cloudy during maturity. It performs well in sandy loam and black soil with a good well-drained facility. Diseases caused by fungus, bacteria, viruses, and phytoplasma are the most common biotic factor. Among these, S. rolfsii is the most destructive fungal pathogen that causes collar rot of sunflower. It attacks the basal portion of the stem which causes rotting and leads to wilting of the plant. Due to wilting translocation of solutes to upper portion of the plant stopped and the plant ultimately dies. If this pathogen is not managed properly it results in yield loss of sunflower. To avoid yield loss and economic benefits of the farmer control of pathogen is a very necessary and challenging task. So, for efficient and sustainable crop production there is','Sunflower, S. rolfsii, Collar rot, Management','Collar rot of sunflower caused by fungus S. rolfsii is one of the most devastating diseases all over the world. Great economic losses are associated with this disease which provides great emphasis to the plant pathologist on the management of collar rot. Chemical control is the most commonly used method , but to reduce environmental hazards, bio-rational approaches like uses of botanical and bioagents are more helpful. Integrated disease management strategies like the combination of biocontrol agents and fungicides are effective in the suppression of the pathogen.','-','Ajit Singh, Rakesh Punia, Vinod Malik, Pavitra Kumari, Neeraj Kumar, Abhishek Kumar and Vipul (2022). Sclerotium Rot is a Chronic Disease of Sunflower- Comprehensive Review. Biological Forum â€“ An International Journal, 14(1): 982-989.'),(3808,'112','Molecular Characterization of Doubled Haploid Rice Lines Derived from the F1s of IR20 Ã— Mahulata','Sandeep Kumar Singh*, Jawahar Lal Katara, Prem Narayan Jagadev, Kishor Jeughale, Sanghamitra Samantaray, Debendra Nath Bastia, Parameswaran C., Manjusha Chandravani and Suryasmita Mallick','177 Molecular Characterization of Doubled Haploid Rice Lines Derived from the F1s of IR20 Ã— Mahulata S. K. Singh.pdf','',1,'Characterization and variability evaluation is vital for the development of crop plant. Majority of the research on DH lines has focused on evaluating their overall agronomic performance in comparison to original genotype and/or lines developed through traditional breeding. However, this experiment focused to assess the molecular variation of rice (Oryza sativa L.) doubled haploid lines. DNA markers, specifically Simple Sequence Repeats (SSR) is a powerful tool for the evaluation of genetic variations and resolving cultivar identities. An overall of sixty-four doubled haploid rice lines derived from the F1s of IR20 Ã— Mahulata through anther culture alongside its parents have been genotyped and clustered by using SSR markers markers. 95 SSR markers, out of 490 SSR markers have been found to be informative among the parents, have been utilized in genotyping the entire population. Based on dendrogram clustering, the DH-lines have been grouped into 3 clusters viz. cluster-I, cluster-II an','Doubled haploids, Rice, SSR marker, Clustering, Variability, Genetic diversity.','Through hybridization, genetic diversity has a direct relationship to the creation of variability. The DH-lines were divided into three major clusters in this study: cluster I, cluster II, and cluster III. To create variability and generate heterotic cross pairs for generating hybrid vigour, as well as for use in the hybridization programme, genotypes from different clusters should be employed rather than genotypes from clusters with low divergence (Narayanan and Murugan, 2013). Parents with a high yield potential and a large genetic variety are more likely to produce superior transgressive segregants in a small space of time in breeding programmes (Maurya and Singh, 1977). These genotypes can also be used in heterosis breeding to create recombinants with a high yield (Mohanty et al., 2020). Furthermore, the effectiveness of identifying transgressive segregants or recombinants can be improved by using marker systems as a biotechnological tool. Higher molecular variability will be ident','-','Sandeep Kumar Singh, Jawahar Lal Katara, Prem Narayan Jagadev, Kishor Jeughale, Sanghamitra Samantaray, Debendra Nath Bastia, Parameswaran C., Manjusha Chandravani and Suryasmita Mallick (2022). Molecular Characterization of Doubled Haploid Rice Lines Der'),(3809,'112','Assessment of Herbicidal effect on the Seed Quality of Finger Millet (Eleusine coracana (L) Gaertn.)','Amit Kishore, Ajay Kumar*, Arunima Paliwal, Bhim Jyoti, Sumit Chaudhary and Kanchan Harbola','178 Assessment of Herbicidal effect on the Seed Quality of Finger Millet _Eleusine coracana _L_ Gaertn._ Ajay Kumar.pdf','',1,'A field experiment was carried out during the Kharif season of 2018-19 at Gaja, Research and Extension Centre, College of Forestry, Ranichauri, Tehri Garhwal, Uttarakhand India. As herbicides increase seed yield through managing weeds but seed quality might be adversely affected by the phytotoxicity of the herbicides. Therefore, to assess the herbicidal effect of pre and early post-emergence herbicides on the seed quality of finger millet the study was planned. The experiment was laid out in a completely randomized block design (CRBD) consisting of 11 treatments and 3 replications. The seed quality parameters like the speed of germination, standard germination test, stress test (cold test), and moisture content were recorded. The application of early post-emergence (within 15-20 days) bispyribac sodium 10 SC 15 g a.i./ha with one inter cultivation at 35-40 DAS significantly controls weeds population and density and also significantly increased grain yield of finger millet. However, app','Finger millet, Eleusine coracana, herbicides, seed quality','The improved seed quality parameters of variety VL- 352 of finger millet were recorded with the application of bispyribac sodium 10 SC 10 g a.i. / ha (within 15 - 20 DAS) + one inter cultivation at 35- 40 DAS.','-','Amit Kishore, Ajay Kumar, Arunima Paliwal, Bhim Jyoti, Sumit Chaudhary and Kanchan Harbola\r\nAssessment of Herbicidal Effect on the Seed Quality of Finger Millet (Eleusine coracana (L) Gaertn.) (2022). Biological Forum â€“ An International Journal, 14(1'),(3810,'112','Nutrient uptake by the Summer Black Gram (Vigna mungo L.) var SHEKHAR-2 Enhanced after Application of different Levels of NPK and Rhizobium as Biofertilizer','Raghu Nandan Singh Khatana*, Tarence Thomas, Jayasree Midde and Mutyalu sheshu','179 Nutrient Uptake by the Summer Black Gram _Vigna mungo L._ Var SHEKHAR-2 Enhanced after Application of different LEVELS of NPK and Rhizobium as Biofertilizer Raghu Nandan Singh Khatana.pdf','',1,'At Research Farm Soil Science and Agricultural Chemistry, NAI, SHUATS, a field experiment was done on the effect of Rhizobium and NPK on soil characteristics, morphology, yield parameters, and nutrient uptake of black gram (Vigna mungo L.). The experiment used Randomized Block Design and was duplicated three times in twenty-seven plots. At 60 DAS, administration of 100 percent Rhizobium + 100 percent NPK considerably increased plant height (60.16 cm), as well as the number of leaves (33) on the plants. The application of 100 percent rhizobium + 100 percent NPK resulted in the highest total dry matter accumulation (20.34). Treatment T1 (0 percent rhizobium + 0 percent NPK) had the lowest value of these parameters. Plant uptake of nutrients was also higher with 100 percent Rhizobium + 100 percent NPK afterwards maximum Nitrogen Phosphorus Potassium uptake in seed (37.8, 4.70, 9.78 kg ha-1) Significantly min uptake of NPK in seed (24.8, 2.24, 6.70 kg ha-1), in stover (23.9, 2.62,7.06 kg h','Rhizobium, NPK, Nutrient uptake, Black gram','Today\'s agricultural challenges include soil fertility loss, climate change, and increased pathogen and pest infestations. Environmentally friendly practices such as the use of biofertilizers, biopesticides, and the return of crop residues are used to produce sufficient quantities in a sustainable and healthy farming system. In terms of N2 fixation capability and tolerance to harsh environments, the Rhizobium-legume symbiosis outperforms other N2-fixing systems. Several legume symbiotic systems are resistant to salinity, alkalinity, acidity, drought, fertilizer, metal toxicity, and other severe environments. The biological fixation of nitrogen is an important process in sustainable agriculture, notably in the legume farming system. To get the most out of leguminous crops, it\'s a good idea to choose symbiotic partnerships that can withstand harsh conditions and fix a lot of nitrogen. Phosphorus potassium application above the level required for plant growth may not increase plant yield,','-','Raghu Nandan Singh Khatana, Tarence Thomas, Jayasree Midde and Mutyalu Sheshu (2022). Nutrient Uptake by the Summer Black Gram (Vigna mungo L.) Var SHEKHAR-2 Enhanced after Application of Different LEVELS of NPK and Rhizobium as Biofertilizer. Biological'),(3811,'112','Pollination Biology of Major Species of Piperaceae Family','Pooja S. and Vijaykumar B. Narayanapur*','180 Pollination Biology of Major Species of Piperaceae Family Pooja S.pdf','',1,'The Flowering plants and their animal pollinators are important components of both natural and agrosystems, and they provide many fascinating instances of ecology and evolution in action. Piper\'s reproductive traits, such as short spike inflorescences with hundreds of reduced flowers, make it easy to identify. Piper has been reported in 100 species, with the majority of them found in the Western Ghats and Eastern Himalaya, with about 65 species found in the northeastern states. The majority of the species studied were dichogamous, with pollen release and stigma receptivity separated by time within the flower. The androecium develops bilaterally in Piper flowers, with stamens beginning in pairs or individuals, according to research. The flower is perianthless and protected by a bract, with a creamy colour. In Piperaceae inflorescences, Coleoptera and Hemiptera species were also detected, but they rarely migrated between flowers and acted as herbivores, devouring and sucking flowers and ','Piper, Pollination, Angiosperms, Piperaceae, Dioecious.','The pollination process exemplifies the value of biodiversity, demonstrating how each organism, insect, and animal contributes to the ecosystem. Pollination is responsible for a wide range of food, primarily horticulture crops, that we consume. Animal pollination \r\nbenefits three-quarters of all crops in some way. It\'s uncertain how decreased biodiversity will disrupt ecosystem dynamics if animal extinctions continue at a pace of one per 16 years. Pollinators, which are critical participants in the reproductive biology of plants, the world\'s primary producers, are of particular importance. The flawless coupling of pollinator proboscis anatomy with plant flower shape, as well as the strategies plants utilise to lure reproductive aids to their food rewards, are the result of millions of years of evolutionary coadaptations. These mutually beneficial relationships are sometimes so specialized that the loss of one species threatens the existence of the other, raising troubling questions abo','-','Pooja S. and Vijaykumar B. Narayanapur (2022). Pollination Biology of Major Species of Piperaceae Family. Biological Forum â€“ An International Journal, 14(1): 1003-1011.'),(3812,'112','Study of Drought Susceptibility Index for Grain Yield and Associated Traits in Barley (Hordeum vulgare L.) Genotypes under Limited Moisture condition of Rajasthan','Madhu Yadav*, Ved Prakash, S. S. Rajput, Madhu Choudhary, Sonu Get, Sarfraz Ahmad, Khushwant B. Choudhary and Shravan Kumar Sharma','181 Study of Drought Susceptibility Index for Grain Yield and Associated Traits in Barley _Hordeum vulgare L._ Genotypes under Limited Moisture Condition of Rajasthan Madhu Yadav.pdf','',1,'Drought is one of the most common abiotic stresses, posing a major challenge to sustainable food production, as it can reduce the potential yield by up to 70% in crop plants. In arid and semi-arid regions, either reduction in water supply in soil or high transpiration can cause drought experience in crops. It has been reported that drought stress could reduce grain yield by 49â€“87% in barley. Drought occurs in all climatic regions and 16.2-41.2% of arable land worldwide is considered as drought-prone area. Drought continues to be an important challenge to agricultural researchers and plant breeders. It is assumed that by the year 2025, around 1.8 billion people will face absolute water shortage and 65% of the worldâ€™s population will live under water-stressed environments. It is one of the consequences of climate change that has a negative impact on crop growth and yield. It is extremely important to improve essential crops to meet the challenges of drought stress which limits crop p','Barley, Drought, Tolerance, Stress, Rainfed.','Based on the drought susceptibility index, the parents DWRUB 64, BH 946, RD 103 and RD 2592 were most desirable parents in E2 environment as they attained high DSI value for yield and its contributing traits. As a consequence, it is recommended that these parents may perform as potential donors for drought tolerance. These parents should be further exploited for improvement of grain yield under rainfed conditions. DSI should be taken as an important criterion for breeding barley genotypes suitable for rainfed or drought stress environment. There is a need for the development of abiotic and biotic stress tolerant new varieties of barley for the enhancement of crop productivity. The most alternative is to increase the yield per unit area through better crop management practices and increasing the cultivation of high yielding varieties with adequate resistance to biotic and abiotic stresses. New wheat and barley genotypes having a high degree of drought tolerance are produced through bre','-','Madhu Yadav, Ved Prakash, S.S. Rajput, Madhu Choudhary, Sonu Get, Sarfraz Ahmad, Khushwant B. Choudhary and Shravan Kumar Sharma (2022). Study of Drought Susceptibility Index for Grain Yield and Associated Traits in Barley (Hordeum vulgare L.) Genotypes u'),(3813,'112','Changes in Poly Phenoloxidase and Peroxidase due to Bacterial Blight Disease in Clusterbean','Anita Jat* and P.S. Shekhawat','182 Changes in Poly Phenoloxidase and Peroxidase due to Bacterial Blight Disease in Clusterbean Anita Jat.pdf','',1,'The activity of polyphenol oxidase and peroxidase enzyme was also disturbed in infected leaves of clusterbean. It was observed that amount of polyphenol oxidase and peroxidase activity was less in extracts prepared from healthy leaf tissues. The activity in infected leaves was more than healthy leaves. Therefore, the activity of polyphenol oxidase and peroxidase increased due to bacterial blight disease in clusterbean. Polyphenol oxidase per cent change in optical density/min/ml maximum was recorded in cultivar RGC-1055 (89.47 & 88.00) followed by RGC-1017 (85.00 & 80.76), RGC-986 (80.95 & 73.91), RGC-936 (45.45 & 71.87) and RGC-1031 (30.00 & 71.42) at 30 and 45 days old plants respectively. Peroxidase per cent change in optical density/min/ml maximum was recorded in cultivar RGC-1055 (52.63 & 51.56) followed by RGC-1017 (44.23 & 38.70), RGC-986 (34.88 & 30.18), RGC-936 (23.95 & 30.00) and minimum in RGC-1031 (9.34 & 17.43) 30 and 45 days old plants respectively.','Clusterbean, Bacterial blight, Xanthomonas, Cultivar, Enzyme and Polyphenol oxidase.','As the disease progressed, the polyphenol oxidase activity increased in all the five cultivars. The activity in infected leaves was more than healthy leaves. The per cent change in activity was maximum in infected cultivar RGC-1055 (89.47 & 88.00) and minimum in RGC-1031 (30.0 & 71.42) at 30 and 45 days old plants respectively.\r\nThe activity of peroxidase greatly increased in bacterial blight disease infected leaves of cultivar RGC-1055 (52.63% & 51.56%) and minimum in RGC-1031 (9.34% & 17.43%) at 30 and 45 days old plants respectively.','-','Anita Jat and P.S. Shekhawat (2022). Changes in Poly Phenoloxidase and Peroxidase due to Bacterial Blight Disease in Clusterbean. Biological Forum â€“ An International Journal, 14(1): 1017-1020.'),(3814,'112','Assessment the Effect of Nano-particles in Quality Parameters of Stored Seeds of Paddy (Oryza sativa L.)','Bhanu Verma, Shiv K. Yadav, Sangita Yadav, Ravish Choudhary, Monika A. Joshi, Prolay Kumar Bhowmick and Vinay Kumar Kardam','183 Assessment the Effect of Nano-particles in Quality Parameters of Stored Seeds of Paddy _Oryza sativa L.pdf','',1,'The present study was carried out on paddy variety Pusa Basmati 1509 at Indian Agricultural Research Institute, New Delhi during 2020-21 with the objective to study the effect of nanoparticles on seed storage potential. The seeds were dry dressed and infused with each of nano and bulk forms of Zinc oxide, Titanium oxide, Silicon dioxide @ 50, 100, 250, 500 and 750ppm. Along with the two controls i.e., untreated and treated with recommended PoP (Thiram treated @ 2g/Kg of seeds), seeds were stored in different packaging material i.e., Polythene and cloth bags under ambient conditions up to 6 months, to study the storage efficacy. The aim of this study is to draw a systematic and comprehensive picture of quality parameters on stored seed of paddy which inhance the production and productivity of paddy. Present data revealed that the highest germination percentage, seedling vigour index I and seedling vigour index II were recorded at initial month but after 6 month of storage highest germin','Paddy, nanoparticle, germination, emergence, seedling vigour and storage','The highest germination percentage, seedling vigour index I and seedling vigour index II were recorded at initial month but after 6 month of storage highest germination percentage (86.8%) in (T3) Dry Bulk ZnO@50ppm, seedling vigour index I (5306) in (T5) Dry Bulk ZnO@250ppm and seedling vigour index II (18.75) in (T7) Dry Bulk ZnO@750ppm were recorded in polythene bag then cloth bag as compared to both the controls. Significant highest seedling emergence percentage were recorded at initial month but after 6 month of storage highest seedling emergence percentage (84.06%) in (T2) Thiram@2gm/kg recorded in polythene bag as compared to (control 1). Lowest moisture content was recorded at initial month but after 6 month of storage lowest moisture content (8.3%) in (T8) Dry Bulk ZnO@50ppm recorded in polythene bag as compared to both the controls. Significant lowest abnormal seedling and dead seed were recorded at initial month but after 6 month of storage lowest abnormal seedling (4.83%) in','-','Bhanu Verma, Shiv K. Yadav, Sangita Yadav, Ravish Choudhary, Monika A. Joshi, Prolay Kumar Bhowmick and Vinay Kumar Kardam (2022). Assessment the Effect of Nano-particles in Quality Parameters of Stored Seeds of Paddy (Oryza sativa L.). Biological Forum '),(3815,'112','Evaluation of Rice Varieties of different Ecologies for Grain Quality Characters','J. Meher, S.K. Dash, Sutapa Sarkar, T. Bagchi, P. Swain, Parameswaran C., P.C. Rath and H.N. Subudhi*','184 Evaluation of Rice Varieties of different Ecologies for Grain Quality Characters H.N. Subudhi.pdf','',1,'Grain quality characters in rice are very important so far as consumers preference is concerned. In India, quality characters were not taken in to consideration during varietal development and release. Realising the importance, now quality characters are given priority during varietal release.\r\nNinety nine released rice varieties for different states and ecologies viz, upland (18), irrigated (41) and lowland (40) were analysed for 12 grain quality traits. These varieties were grown in the farm of National Rice Research Institute, Cuttack and analysed after 3 months of harvest for Hulling%, Milling% HRR% Kernel length(mm), Kernel breadth (mm), L/B ratio, Alkali spreading value, Water uptake, Elongation ratio, Volume expansion ratio, Kernel length after cooking and amylose content. The Hulling (%) is very important for the millers and it ranged from 74.5 (PR113) to 81.3 (Improved Lalat). HRR% ranged from 42.5 (Konark) to 72.0 (Bhanja). Kernel length varied from 4.8 (Sarasa) to 7.2 ','Grain quality characters, rice varieties, different ecology.','The promising genotypes (Table 3) can be used in hybridisation programme for varietal development and can be popularised among the farmers.','-','J. Meher, S.K. Dash, Sutapa Sarkar, T. Bagchi, P. Swain, Parameswaran C, P.C. Rath and H.N. Subudhi (2022). Evaluation of Rice Varieties of Different Ecologies for Grain Quality Characters. Biological Forum â€“ An International Journal, 14(1): 1038-10'),(3816,'112','New Report of Pre-emergent Inflorescence Rot of Coconut from India','B. Gangadhara Naik, K. Hariprasad*, M.K. Naik, M. Hanumanthappa and Suresh Patil','185 New Report of Pre-emergent Inflorescence Rot of Coconut from India K. Hariprasad.pdf','',1,'Coconut inflorescence sap tapped from the unopened spathe or inflorescence of coconut commonly called as neera in Karnataka is a healthy and therapeutic drink which is rich in Vitamin-C and one of the natural product derived from coconut. During pre winter period in and around the coconut growing areas of Bhadravathi taluk of Shivamogga district many coconut palms were found expressing the inflorescence rot symptoms which was not yet recorded earlier in neera extracting coconut palms. The affected spathe appeared to be yellowish green, spathe when made a fine cut at around 45Âº angle for neera collection. It was observed that the pathogen enters through the cut end and initially moves through the individual rachillae and as the disease progresses it infected all the floral organs and turns them into brown to blackish color resulting in rotting of entire inflorescence. Such inflorescence emitted foul smell. From such inflorescence a fungus was isolated and identified as Thielaviopsis pa','Pre-emergent inflorescence rot, Thielaviopsis paradoxa, Characterization, Coconut.','Neera is a unfermented sap tapped from the immature inflorescence of coconut. As it contains sugars, minerals and vitamins it is considered to be one of the best natural health drink. Although there is no history of any plant pathogen affecting the neera production tilldate many coconut palms were found expressing the pre emergent inflorescence rotting like symptoms during pre winter period in and around the coconut growing areas of Bhadravathi taluk of Shivamogga district. Therefore from the present study it was revealed that Thielaviopsis paradoxa to be the exact cause for the pre emergent inflorescence rotting in coconut. To the best of our knowledge this the first report of Thielaviopsis paradoxa causing inflorescence rot of coconut in India. Hence the sequence of ITS rDNA region of was deposited in the Genbank. However in the future days the multi-locus phylogenetic analyses of the pathogen will be studied in detail.','-','B. Gangadhara Naik, K. Hariprasad, M.K. Naik3, M. Hanumanthappa and Suresh Patil (2022). New Report of Pre-emergent Inflorescence Rot of Coconut from India. Biological Forum â€“ An International Journal, 14(1): 1043-1046.'),(3817,'112','Importance of Nanotechnology in Agriculture: A Review','Deshraj Gurjar*, Ponugoti Avinash and Praveen Kumar','186 Importance of Nanotechnology in Agriculture A Review Deshraj Gurjar.pdf','',1,'Nanotechnology is essential in the advancement of agriculture and farming products. Nanotechnology has the great capacity to enhance sustainable agriculture and, as a result, global food security Nanotechnology also aids in the improvement of crop output in agriculture by reducing input losses and ensuring efficient nutrient and water management. The primary substantial achievements of nanotechnology in agriculture are the innovation of Nano-based fertilizers and pesticides for enhanced crop production. The bulky use of fertilizers keeps agricultural productivity high. However, it has been elucidated this would have a serious environmental impact as well as a life-threatening effect on humans. This usually requires the need to modernize agricultural practices with safe and effective technologies that focus on increased agricultural production while causing less harm to the environment and humans. These include the advancement of nano-formulations of agrochemicals for increased crop yie','Nanotechnology, sustainable agriculture, Nano-based fertilizers, nanoparticle-mediated gene transfer, and green synthesis.','Nanotechnology in agriculture had already forever changed agricultural methods over the last few decades. Some of the benefits of using nanoparticles in agricultural fields encompass rapid disease detection, disease diagnosis, nutrient enrichment, disease suppression, real-time monitoring of cultivated fields, and waste reduction. The primary objectives of sustainable agriculture are to reduce environmental pollutants and increase crop yield. Engineered nanoparticles and biosensors collaborated to create a new tool for rapid pathogen detection. The use of green prepared particles reduces the chance of environmental pollution while improving the efficiency of bioactivity.','-','Deshraj Gurjar, Ponugoti Avinash and Praveen Kumar (2022). Importance of Nanotechnology in Agriculture: A Review. Biological Forum â€“ An International Journal, 14(1): 1047-1053.'),(3818,'112','Genetic Variability and Character Association for Seed Yield in Farmersâ€™ Chickpea (Cicer arietinum L.) Varieties grown in Vindhyan Zone of Eastern Uttar Pradesh','Vaishnavi Kalithkar* and Shailesh Marker','187 Genetic Variability and Character Association for Seed Yield in Farmersâ€™ Chickpea _Cicer arietinum L._ Varieties grown in Vindhyan Zone of Eastern Uttar Pradesh Vaishnavi Kalithkar.pdf','',1,'The present study was carried out to assess the genetic variability and character association amongst nineteen farmers\' chickpea varieties that were examined during Rabi 2019-2020 under RBD with three replications. ANOVA showed highly significant differences for all of the characters studied at 1% level of significance except days to maturity. For majority of the characters, PCV was somewhat greater than GCV, indicating that character expression is mostly controlled by genotypes, with just a little contribution of environment. The characters viz., number of pods per plant, number of primary branches per plant, number of secondary branches per plant, biological yield per plant, seed index, harvest index, and seed yield per plant all had high heritability coupled with high GAM, indicating that these characters are driven by additive gene action. Biological yield per plant and harvest index revealed a significant positive association and had a direct effect on seed yield. As a result, the','Genetic variability, Chickpea (Cicer arietinum L.), Farmersâ€™ varieties, Association, Path coefficient analysis.','The analysis of variance for all the varieties revealed significant differences for all of the traits under investigation. Based on mean performance, the farmers\' chickpea varieties Tiwari Chana-2, followed by CRCB-447, were identified to be the most propitious for seed yield per plant and other traits. characters such as the number of pods per plant, number of primary branches per plant, and the number of secondary branches per plant had high GCV, PCV, and Heritability, indicating that the environment had little impact on the expression of these characters. Number of pods per plant, number of primary branches per plant, number of secondary branches per plant, biological yield per plant, seed index, harvest index, and seed yield per plant, all had high heritability coupled with high GAM, showing that these characters are driven by additive gene action. Characters such as biological yield per plant and harvest index shown a significant positive correlation and had a direct influence on ','-','Vaishnavi Kalithkar and Shailesh Marker (2022). Genetic Variability and Character Association for Seed Yield in Farmersâ€™ Chickpea (Cicer arietinum L.) Varieties grown in Vindhyan Zone of Eastern Uttar Pradesh. Biological Forum â€“ An International Journ'),(3819,'112','Identification of suitable Pearl Millet Hybrid for Arid and Semi-arid condition using Infrared Gas Analysis(IRGA)','Komal Shekhawat, Nemichand Sharma, Anil Kumar, Swanrlata Kumawat, P.C. Gupta and A.K. Sharma','188 Identification of suitable Pearl Millet Hybrid for Arid and Semi-arid condition using Infrared Gas Analysis_IRGA_ Komal Shekhawat.pdf','',1,'Maintenance of growth, development, and physiological processes in general is a key requirement for the survival of multicellular organisms such as plants and animals. Abiotic stresses are one of the major constraints to crop production and food security worldwide. The situation has aggravated due to the drastic and rapid changes in global climate. Drought is undoubtedly the most important stresses having huge impact on growth and productivity of the crops. It is very important to understand the physiological, biochemical, and ecological interventions related to these stresses for better management. Crop growth and yields are negatively affected by sub-optimal water supply and abnormal temperatures due to physical damages, physiological disruptions, and biochemical changes. This stresses have multi-lateral impacts and therefore, complex in mechanistic action. A better understanding of plant responses to these stresses has pragmatic implication for remedies and management. A comprehensi','Photosynthesis, Stress, Drought, IRGA, Temperatures.','Maintenance of growth, development, and physiological processes in general is a key requirement for the survival of multicellular organisms such as plants and animals. Abiotic stresses are one of the major constraints to crop production and food security worldwide. The situation has aggravated due to the drastic and rapid changes in global climate. Drought is undoubtedly the most important stresses having huge impact on growth and productivity of the crops. It is very important to understand the physiological, biochemical, and ecological interventions related to these stresses for better management. Crop growth and yields are negatively affected by sub-optimal water supply and abnormal temperatures due to physical damages, physiological disruptions, and biochemical changes. This stresses have multi-lateral impacts and therefore, complex in mechanistic action. A better understanding of plant responses to these stresses has pragmatic implication for remedies and management. A comprehensi','-','Komal Shekhawat, Nemichand Sharma, Anil Kumar, Swanrlata Kumawat, P.C. Gupta and A.K. Sharma (2022). Identification of suitable Pearl Millet Hybrid for Arid and Semi-arid condition using Infrared Gas Analysis(IRGA). Biological Forum â€“ An International J'),(3820,'112','Spring Sugarcane (Saccharum officinarum L.) Yield, Quality and Nutrient uptake under different Row Spacing and Intercropping Systems','Ekta Singh, Rajesh Singh and A.K. Singh*','189 Spring Sugarcane _Saccharum officinarum L._ Yield, Quality and Nutrient uptake under different Row Spacing and Intercropping Systems A.K. Singh.pdf','',1,'Sugarcane being a long duration and widely spaced crop having ample scope of intercropping. This holds promise high land utilization efficiency, mid-season income generation and sustaining the productivity of crops in sugarcane based production system. The field experiment was conducted during spring seasons of 2019-20 and 2020-21 at ICAR-Indian Institute of Sugarcane Research, Lucknow. The experimental soil was sandy loam with pH (7.6), organic carbon (0.45 %), available N (275.9 kg/ha), P2O5 (37.4 kg/ha) and K2O (233.1 kg/ha) respectively. The treatments comprised of 4 inter cropping systems (sugarcane sole, sugarcane + cluster bean, sugarcane + okra, sugarcane + sesame) with 3 row spacings viz. 90 cm (1:1), 120 cm (1:2) and 150 (1:3) cm along with each sole crops. Among intercropping treatments, significantly the highest number of millable canes (132.5 thousand/ha), cane yield (102.1 t/ha) and sugar yield (12.03 t/ha) was recorded with sugarcane (90 cm) + okra (1:1) and was compara','Cane equivalent yield, intercropping, nutrient uptake, row spacing and sugarcane.','This may be concluded that intercropping system of sugarcane (90 cm) + okra (1:1) was most effective in harnessing the highest number of millable canes (132.5 thousand/ha), cane yield (102.1 t/ha) and sugar yield (12.03 t/ha). Highest cane equivalent yield (151.5 t/ha) was recorded under sugarcane (120 cm) + okra (1:2) intercropping system and was found similar to sugarcane (90 cm) + okra (1:1) intercropping. The quality parameters were unaffected due to different treatments. ','-','Ekta Singh, Rajesh Singh and A.K. Singh (2022). Spring Sugarcane (Saccharum officinarum L.) Yield, Quality and Nutrient uptake under Different Row Spacing and Intercropping Systems. Biological Forum â€“ An International Journal, 14(1): 1073-1077.'),(3821,'92','Multivariate Diagnosis of Nutrient Imbalances in Apple using Compositional Nutrient Diagnosis and Principal Component Analysis','Rakesh Sharma*','112 Multivariate Diagnosis of Nutrient Imbalances in Apple using Compositional Nutrient Diagnosis and Principal Component Analysis Dr Rakesh Sharma.pdf','',1,'In order to improve yields and quality while maintaining tree sustainability, multivariate nutrient diagnostic norms to be derived for proper nutrient and sustainable soil fertility management in apple orchards. Foliar nutrient content vs. yield performance data bank was established for 280 apple (Starking delicious) orchards from seventy locations in Kinnaur region of Himachal Pradesh to diagnose nutrient imbalances in apple using compositional nutrient diagnosis and principal component analysis for efficient nutrient management in orchards. The mean foliar N, P and K concentrations were 2.27, 0.243 and 1.53% respectively. The mean Ca (1.56%) concentration in leaf was quite higher compared to Mg (0.31%) concentration. The diagnostic norms for major nutrients (N, P, K, Ca and Mg) were developed by using compositional nutrient diagnosis (CND) technique. The CND norms for N (VN), P (VP), K (VK), Ca (VCa), and Mg (VMg) for apple were 0.219, -1.998, -0.198, -0.137 and -1.763 r','Apple, compositional nutrient diagnosis (CND), nutrient imbalances, principal component analysis (PCA).','Thus, the results of the present study suggested that multi-nutrient diagnosis developed through CND and nutrient interactions elucidated through PCA identified P, Mg and Ca as the most common yield limiting nutrients and indicate the necessity to regulate content of available N and K in apple orchard soils and, are thus instrumental in evolving nutrient management strategies based on soil and plant analysis.','-','Rakesh Sharma (2021). Multivariate Diagnosis of Nutrient Imbalances in Apple using Compositional Nutrient Diagnosis and Principal Component Analysis. Biological Forum â€“ An International Journal, 13(1): 776-781.'),(3822,'112','Prediction of Cow Milk Yield in Himachal Pradesh and Northern Himalayan Province of India','Rahul Thakur, Ashu Chandel, R.K. Gupta, Rohit Bishist, Vaibhav Chittora* and Pawan Kumar','190 Prediction of Cow Milk Yield in Himachal Pradesh and Northern Himalayan Province of India Rahul Thakur.pdf','',1,'Animals are an integral part of our farming system. Livestock production plays a major economic as well as cultural role in the rural community. It provides an indirect means of insurance against the risk of crop failure due to natural calamities such as drought and flood. This paper makes an attempt to predict the yield of cow milk in Himachal Pradesh Northern Himalayan state of India so that they can enhance the production of cow milk. Secondary data on cow milk production from 1993 to 2014 (22 years) of Himachal Pradesh were used for the purpose and different linear and non linear models were applied. The data were subjected to regression analysis and trend value of milk yield was also assessed. Various models such as Linear, Quadratic, Cubic and Compound models were fitted to predict the cow milk yield. (R^2 ) Ì…, RMSE and Theilâ€™s U statistic were used for selection of model. Quadratic model turned out to be best fit for cow milk yield. Validation using F- Chow Statistics was ca','Statistical model, linear model, quadratic model, RMSE, adjusted R2, F-chow, Autoregressive model.','In the present investigation linear, quadratic, cubic and compound models were fitted for estimation cow milk production, using 22 years of data. Among these the quadratic model was found best for estimation milk production of cow on the basis of the lowest RMSE and Theilâ€™s U statistics values. Non-significant F values in the Chow test revealed the validity of quadratic model for prediction. Autoregressive models till the 4th order were also fitted to predict milk yield of cow. Both 1st and 3rd order AR models were found to be well fitted and valid for the given year but the 1st order AR model was preferred to the 3rd order model for prediction purpose as per lower value of RMSE. The study further showed that quadratic model had lower RMSE value as compared to the 1st order AR model. Hence, the quadratic model was found to be the best fit and valid model for estimation of cow milk production in Himachal Pradesh, the northern Himalayan state of India. The same may be demonstrated by u','-','Rahul Thakur, Ashu Chandel, R.K. Gupta, Rohit Bishist, Vaibhav Chittora and Pawan Kumar (2022). Prediction of Cow Milk Yield in Himachal Pradesh and Northern Himalayan Province of India. Biological Forum â€“ An International Journal, 14(1): 1078-1082.'),(3823,'112','Evaluation of effect of Nano Particles on Seed Quality Attributes in Paddy (Oryza sativa L.)','Bhanu Verma*, Shiv K. Yadav, Sangita Yadav, Ravish Choudhary, Monika A. Joshi, Prolay Kumar Bhowmick and Vinay Kumar Kardam','191 Evaluation of Effect of Nano Particles on Seed Quality Attributes in Paddy _Oryza sativa L._ Vinay Kumar Kardam.pdf','',1,'The studies were carried out on paddy variety Pusa Basmati 1509 at ICAR- Indian Agricultural Research Institute, New Delhi during 2020-21 with the objective to study the effect of nanoparticles on seed quality parameters. The goal of this study is to draw a systematic and comprehensive picture of quality attributes on seed of paddy which enhance the production and productivity of paddy. The seeds were dry dressed and infused with each of nano and bulk forms of Zinc oxide, Titanium oxide, Silicon dioxide @ 50, 100, 250, 500 and 750ppm along with the two controls i.e., untreated and treated with recommended PoP (Thiram treated @2g/Kg of seeds) and were evaluated for various seed quality parameters Present investigation revealed that, the highest radicle emergence percentage (95.3%) and numerically highest field emergence percentage (97.3%) was recorded in Dry Nano ZnO@250ppm as compared to both the controls. Highest germination percentage (94.7%) in Dry Bulk ZnO@50ppm and highest average','Nano-particle, radicle emergence, seedling vigour, germination. ','The highest radicle emergence percentage (95.3%) and numerically highest field emergence percentage (97.3%) was recorded in Dry Nano ZnO@250ppm as compared to both the controls. Highest germination percentage (94.7%) in Dry Bulk ZnO@50ppm and highest average shoot length (33.3 cm) in Dry Bulk ZnO@100ppm were recorded as compared to both the controls. Significant highest average root length (40.5 cm), average normal seedling length (67.5 cm) and highest seedling vigour index I (6129) was reported in Dry bulk ZnO@250ppm as compared to both the controls. Significant highest seedlings dry weight (0.2603g) and seedling vigour index II (23.4) was reported in Dry Bulk Zno@750ppm as compared to both the controls.','-','Bhanu Verma, Shiv K. Yadav, Sangita Yadav, Ravish Choudhary, Monika A. Joshi, Prolay Kumar Bhowmick and Vinay Kumar Kardam (2022). Evaluation of Effect of Nano Particles on Seed Quality Attributes in Paddy (Oryza sativa L.). Biological Forum â€“ An Inter'),(3824,'112','Studies on Acceptability and Cost Structure of Kalakand Prepared From Cow Milk Khoa and Wood Apple Pulp','A.V. Tidke, P.A. Kahate, K.V. Jadhao*, R.R. Shelke and K.U. Bidwe','192 Studies on Acceptability and Cost Structure of Kalakand Prepared From Cow Milk Khoa and Wood Apple Pulp A.V. Tidke.pdf','',1,'The present investigation with a view to utilizes Wood Apple in preparation of Kalakand with different combinations of cow milk khoa and wood apple pulp like 100:00, 95:05, 90:10, 85:15 and 80:20 in treatments T1, T2, T3, T4 and T5. The samples of kalakand were subjected to sensory evaluation by panel of judes. The kalakand prepared from combination of 85 per cent cow milk khoa and 15 per cent wood apple pulp was found acceptable with highest score in treatment T4 (8.7). The cost of production of acceptable kalakand (T4 ) i.e. 15% wood apple pulp blended with 85% cow milk khoa was Rs. 255.31/Kg. ','Wood apple pulp, cow milk khoa, overall acceptability, cost of production.','Acceptability of kalakand in respect of flavour, colour and appereance, body and texture and overall acceptability showed that, 15 per cent of wood apple pulp blended with cow milk kalakand was acceptable. The cost of kalakand was decreased with the increased in level of wood apple kaklakand. The cost of most acceptable kalakand prepared with 15 per cent wood apple pulp was Rs. 256.66 per kg.','-','A.V. Tidke, P.A. Kahate, K.V. Jadhao, R.R. Shelke and K.U. Bidwe (2022). Studies on Acceptability and Cost Structure of Kalakand Prepared From Cow Milk Khoa and Wood Apple Pulp. Biological Forum â€“ An International Journal, 14(1): 1093-1095.'),(3825,'112','Pattern Recognition of Satellite Imageries of Somwarpet Taluk of Kodagu District: Land Use Patterns Classification','Vaibhav Chittora*, S.S. Patil, Hemamalini H.C., Pramit Pandit and Prabhat Kumar','193 Pattern Recognition of Satellite Imageries of Somwarpet Taluk of Kodagu District Land Use Patterns Classification Vaibhav Chittora.pdf','',1,'The land use, land cover classification of satellite imagery is compelling to analyses derives the knowledge. The current scenario playing vital role in pattern classification to recognize pattern behaviour through the machine learning algorithms are utilized for pattern recognition and their performance. The imagery obtained by Sentinel-2 Satellite on February 2018 for Somwarpet Taluk, Kodagu District (Karnataka) using ERDAS IMAGINE image processing. In order to classify land cover types, training is needed to create a set of statistics that describes the spectral response patterns of each type of land cover draw the features, the quality of training feature set ensures the success of classification in accuracy nearer to ground truth. Maximum Likelihood Classification, Minimum Distance to Mean Classification, Mahalanobiâ€™s Distance Classification and Spectral Correlation Mapper Classification were outperformed algorithms. Accuracy of the classification of data set and classifier were','Accuracy assessment, Classification algorithm, Kappa statistic, ERDAS Imagine.','This study of the Somwarpet Taluk of Kodagu District Karnataka, India demonstrates that the utilization of spatial multi-transient satellite imagery with the guide of GIS and RS innovation can assume a fundamental part in computing spatial and temporal phenomena, previously it was not possible through traditional digital planning. In this study seven LULC classes were classified in the study area namely Agricultural Crops, Plantation Crops, Built up, Forest, Barren land, Scrub land and Water bodies. In the classification phase four supervised classification algorithms were deployed to classify the image. The four algorithms are maximum Likelihood classification algorithm, Minimum Distance, Mahalanobis Distance and Spectral Correlation Mapper were performed to the image. Several measures of classification accuracy were evaluated in this study, namely overall accuracy, kappa coefficient and f measures. \r\n\r\nMany measures of classification accuracy may be derived from a confusion m','-','Vaibhav Chittora, S.S. Patil, Hemamalini H.C., Pramit Pandit and Prabhat Kumar (2022). Pattern Recognition of Satellite Imageries of Somwarpet Taluk of Kodagu District: Land use Patterns Classification. Biological Forum â€“ An International Journal, 14('),(3826,'112','Influence of Conservation Agriculture on Soil Microbial Indices Contributing to Soil Carbon Sequestration in Rice Crop','Bhagwan Singh Dhaked, Geeta Singh and T.K. Das','194 Influence of Conservation Agriculture on Soil Microbial Indices Contributing to Soil Carbon Sequestration in Rice Crop Bhagwan Singh Dhaked.pdf','',1,'A long term (2008-2020) field experiment was conducted adopting various management approaches in a rice-wheat cropping system. The aim was to understand the impact of alternate tillage and agri -resource management on indices related to soil health namely the microbial biomass Carbon (SMBC), respiration and dehydrogenase enzyme activity. The treatment combinations applied were Zero-Tillage (ZT), Conventional tillage (CT) along with brown manure (BM), crop residues (CR), and moong bean (MB). Soil microbial parameters were studied from soil samples collected from two depth (0-15, 15- 30cm) at the wheat flowering and harvest. ZT +CR had maximum soil respiration and minimum dehydrogenase activity. Dehydrogenase, was maximum in ZT +CR+BM. CTR â€“ ZTW had higher SMBC. ZT had lower soil respiration, SMBC and higher dehydrogenase activity. ZT+BM had higher soil respiration, SMBC and lower dehydrogenase activity. ZT+CR had higher soil respiration. ZT+MB had higher soil respiration, SMBC and low','Conservation agriculture, Soil carbon sequestration, tillage, soil microbial indices.','Soil microbial parameters were studied from soil samples collected from two depth (0-15, 15- 30cm) at the wheat flowering and harvest. ZT +CR had maximum soil respiration and minimum dehydrogenase activity. Dehydrogenase, was maximum in ZT +CR+BM. CTR â€“ ZTW had higher SMBC. ZT had lower soil respiration, SMBC and higher dehydrogenase activity. ZT+BM had higher soil respiration, SMBC and lower dehydrogenase activity. ZT+CR had higher soil respiration. ZT+MB had higher soil respiration, SMBC and lower dehydrogenase activity. Soil respiration, beta-glucosidase had higher value at 15-30 cm soil depth than 0-15 cm soil depth. DHA, SMBC had higher value at 0-15 cm soil depth than 15-30 cm soil depth. Soil respiration, DHA, SMBC had higher value at flowering than at harvest.','-','Bhagwan Singh Dhaked, Geeta Singh and T.K. Das (2022). Influence of Conservation Agriculture on Soil Microbial Indices Contributing to Soil Carbon Sequestration in Rice Crop. Biological Forum â€“ An International Journal, 14(1): 1103-1110.'),(3827,'112','Mutation Breeding as a Tool for Aphid Resistance in Indian mustard [Brassica juncea (L.) Czern & Coss]','Ponaganti Shiva Kishore, Aditya Pratap Singh*, Sujaya Dewanjee and Pramod Kumar Pandey','195 Mutation Breeding as a Tool for Aphid Resistance in Indian mustard [Brassica juncea _L._ Czern & Coss] Aditya Pratap Singh.pdf','',1,'One of the most important oilseeds in India is mustard [Brassica juncea (L.) Czern & Coss]. The country\'s edible oil demands are met in part by its production. Because they have the ability to exploit ephemeral habitats quickly, aphids are specialised sap feeders and dangerous pests. Aphids can be controlled effectively, economically, and environmentally through the creation of an aphid-resistant genotype. As part of their physiochemical defense mechanisms, Brassica plants produce glucosinolates, isothiocyanates, lectins, volatiles, and alkaloids, as well as surface waxes and trichomes to deter infestations of insects. The lack of available resistant sources of intercrossable germplasm in brassicas as well as poor knowledge of trait genetics has hindered aphid resistance breeding in brassicas. The mustard aphid, Lipaphis erysimi, is a primary pest in most mustard-growing regions, causing yields to decline by 35.4%-96.0% and oil content to drop by 5-15%. Induced mutagenesis is a reliabl','Indian mustard, mustard aphid, genetic variability, mutagenesis, biophysical, biochemical.','In India, the mustard aphid is the most devastating insect in the Brassica family, producing major crop losses. There are currently no viable Brassica juncea tolerant cultivars with systemic plant responses in the form of direct or indirect aphid defences that have been developed using traditional methods. The lack of resistant sources within crossable germplasm, as well as a lack of knowledge about trait genetics and specific procedures for screening large numbers of genotypes required in breeding for the selection of tolerant cultivars in mustard, are the primary reasons for the delay in developing resistant variants of Brassica juncea. Induced mutagenesis has proven to be a reliable means of introducing unique variants within a crop variety, therefore any agricultural development effort must contain genetic variability. The efficiency of this technology has been demonstrated by the release of induced mutants as new varieties in several crops. When no gene, or genes, promoting insect','-','Ponaganti Shiva Kishore, Aditya Pratap Singh, Sujaya Dewanjee and Pramod Kumar Pandey (2022). Mutation Breeding as a Tool for Aphid Resistance in Indian mustard [Brassica juncea (L.) Czern & Coss]. Biological Forum â€“ An International Journal, 14(1): 11'),(3828,'112','Enhancement of Seed Germination by Pre-sowing Seed Treatments and Growing Media in Berberis lycium Royle','Sachin Verma*, Uday Kumar, Jayashree Behera and Vimal Chauhan','196 Enhancement of Seed Germination by Pre-sowing Seed Treatments and Growing Media in Berberis lycium Royle Sachin Verma.pdf','',1,'Berberis lycium (Kashmal) an evergreen shrub generally grows in Himalayan region, every part of this plant used in various medicinal preparations due to presence of berberine in rhizomes has marked an antibacterial effect and raw product used in various pharmaceutical industries. Due to its hard seed coat, seed remained dormant for long time results poor germination as now on the plant is on vulnerable stage just about to getting endangered. Therefore present study evaluates various pre-sowing seed treatment to reduce dormancy period and enhance germination viz. Immersion of seeds in hot water, H2SO4 and cow urine for different time interval which was later grown on Soil, Sand, Soil+Sand (1:1), Soil+Sand+FYM (1:1:1) out of which immersion of seeds in cow urine for six hours grown on Soil+Sand+FYM (1:1:1) medium resulted maximal seed germination (65.33%) while the minimal germination (33.33%) was observed on control (untreated seeds) grown on soil medium. ','Regeneration, germination, potting mixture, propagation.','The seeds treated with cow urine for 6 hours (T4) and subsequent sowing in germination media consisting of Soil+Sand+FYM in ratio 1:1:1 (M4) proved most effective by exhibiting maximum germination percent (65.33%). The least germination percent (33.33%) was shown by control (T1) with germination media consisting only of soil (M1). In nursery conditions, seeds treated with cow urine for 6 hours and subsequently sown in germination media consisting of Soil+Sand+FYM in ratio 1:1:1 outperformed all other treatments for germination parameters. ','-','Sachin Verma, Uday Kumar, Jayashree Behera and Vimal Chauhan (2022). Enhancement of Seed Germination by Pre-sowing Seed Treatments and Growing Media in Berberis lycium Royle. Biological Forum â€“ An International Journal, 14(1): 1119-1122.'),(3829,'112','Impact of Integrated Nutrient Management on Yield Attributes of Okra [Abelmoschus esculentus (L.) Moench] cv. Arka Anamika','Maruthi B.*, M. Hanuman Nayak, A. Kiran Kumar and D. Vijaya','197 Impact of Integrated Nutrient Management on Yield Attributes of Okra [Abelmoschus esculentus _L._ Moench] cv. Arka Anamika B. Maruthi.pdf','',1,'The modern nutrient management strategy has shifted its focus toward the concept of sustainability and eco-friendliness. Integrated use of various soil fertility amendment inputs aims at alleviating the limiting nutrients problem and improving their availability. During the Kharif season from July to November 2019, the present study has been conducted in the College of Horticulture, Rajendranagar, Sri Konda Laxman Telangana State Horticultural University to determine the impact of integrated nutrient management on the yield characteristics of okra. The results showed that the different treatments had a substantial impact on yield characteristics. The okra crop supplied a combination of 75 per cent RDF + 12.5 per cent RDN via FYM + 12.5 per cent RDN via vermicompost + Azotobactor + Phosphorus solubilizing bacteria [PSB] (T7) influenced growth characters positively, registering superior values for yield attributes like minimum days to first fruit set (47 days), number of fruits per plant','Okra, RDF, RDN, Yield.','The bhindi crop treatment applied with 75% RDF + 12.5% RDN through FYM + 12.5% RDN via vermicompost + Azotobactor + Phosphorus solubilizing bacteria [PSB] (T7) favourably influenced the higher values of yield parameters viz. fruit length (15 cm), average fruit weight (18.8 g), pod yield/plant (0.4 kg) and pod yield/plot (10.03 kg) proved superior over other treatments under study.','-','Maruthi, B., M. Hanuman Nayak, A. Kiran Kumar and D. Vijaya (2022). Impact of Integrated Nutrient Management on Yield Attributes of Okra [Abelmoschus esculentus (L.) Moench] cv. Arka Anamika. Biological Forum â€“ An International Journal, 14(1): 1123-1126'),(3830,'112','Performance of Integrated Weed Management Practices in Rabi Groundnut on Post Harvest Soil Analysis and Soil Enzymatic Activity','N. Charitha*, M. Madhavi, T. Ramprakash and G. Pratibha','198 Performance of Integrated Weed Management Practices in Rabi Groundnut on Post Harvest Soil Analysis and Soil Enzymatic Activity N. Charitha.pdf','',1,'A test was carried out to examine the effect of included weed control practices on weed growth and yield of groundnut at College of Agriculture, Professor Jayashankar Telangana State Agricultural University, Hyderabad, during Rabi 2020-21. The test consisted of ten treatments laid out in randomised block layout replicated thrice. Different weed management practices had no effect on pH, EC, OC, available nitrogen, phosphorus and potassium in soil after harvest of groundnut. Among pre-emergence herbicides the urease and dehydrogenase activity was recorded highest with the diclosulam 86% WDG 26 g ha-1 fb intercultivation at 20 DAS and in the post-emergence treatments intercultivation fb hand weeding at 20 and 40 DAS recorded the highest activity in both 30 and 60 DAS. Acid and alkaline phosphatase was recorded highest with the pyroxasulfone 85 % WDG 127.5 g ha-1 fb intercultivation at 20 DAS among the pre-emergence herbicides and in the post-emergence treatments intercultivation fb hand ','Acid phosphatase, Alkaline phosphatase, Dehydrogenase, Microbial population and Urease.','After groundnut harvest, different weed control strategies had no effect on pH, EC, OC, accessible nitrogen, phosphorus, or potassium in the soil. The urease and dehydrogenase activity was best in pre-emergence herbicides with the diclosulam 86 percent WDG 26 g ha-1 fb intercultivation at 20 DAS, and in post-emergence herbicides with intercultivation fb manual weeding at 20 and 40 DAS in both 30 and 60 DAS. Among the pre-emergence herbicides, pyroxasulfone 85 percent WDG 127.5 g ha-1 fb intercultivation at 20 DAS recorded the highest activity, while among the post-emergence herbicides, intercultivation fb hand weeding at 20 and 40 DAS showed the highest activity. At 60 DAS there was no significant difference in acid and alkaline phosphatase activity among the different weed management practices followed.','-','N. Charitha, M. Madhavi, T. Ramprakash and G. Pratibha (2022). Performance of Integrated Weed Management Practices in Rabi Groundnut on Post Harvest Soil Analysis and Soil Enzymatic Activity. Biological Forum â€“ An International Journal, 14(1): 1127-1130'),(3831,'112','Rainfall Characterization for Crop Planning of Bokaro District in Jharkhand','Yellagandula Mani*, Ramesh Kumar, Pragyan Kumari and A. Wadood','199 Rainfall Characterization for Crop Planning of Bokaro District in Jharkhand Yellagandula Mani.pdf','',1,'Indian agriculture is heavily dependent on monsoons. About 61% of farmers in India rely on rain-fed agriculture (NRAA, 2019). The knowledge of rainfall distribution provided a road map for optimal crop planning and water resources management. Present study has been undertaken to determine the expected amount of rainfall of Bokaro district at different probability levels (90%, 75% and 50%) using Incomplete Gamma Probability distribution in Weather Cock model. Rainfall data of 30 years (1989-2018) has been collected from Directorate of Economics and Statistics, Govt. of Jharkhand to estimate annual, seasonal and monthly rainfall probabilities of Bokaro district. The analysis of 30 years rainfall data revealed that the annual average rainfall of Bokaro is 1063.2 mm. The average annual predicted rainfall at 90%, 75% and 50% probability levels are 717.2 mm, 859.4 mm and 1038.5mm respectively. 33 SMW has the record of receiving highest amount of rainfall at all the three probability levels. ','Rainfall probability, SMW, Incomplete gamma probability, Assured rainfall and Crop Planning.','Rainfall probability analysis through Incomplete Gamma distribution model predicts the amount of rainfall of the district at different probability levels, i.e. 90%, 75% and 50%. Assured rain on weekly basis at 50% probability was closer to normal rain in all blocks. Weekly, seasonal and monthly predicted amount of rainfall will help the farmers in carrying out different agricultural operations in the field and deciding the cropping system for the same area. Time of sowing of kharif and rabi crops are also decided according to the availability of water. Rabi crops are mainly sown during winter season when rainwater availability is very less and so they take up the water from residual soil moisture. Rainwater need to be stored in water harvesting structures for efficient utilisation during water stress condition in critical stages of crop growth. In uplands pulses can be grown during kharif season and vegetables in rabi season and intercropping of major crops have been found suitable tha','-','Yellagandula Mani, Ramesh Kumar, Pragyan Kumari and A. Wadood (2022). Rainfall Characterization for Crop Planning of Bokaro District in Jharkhand. Biological Forum â€“ An International Journal, 14(1): 1131-1134.'),(3832,'112','Interaction effect of Calcium and Boron on Growth, Yield Attributes and Yield of Groundnut in Vylogam Soil Series of Madurai District','M. David Israel Mansingh*, P. Saravana Pandian, P. Christy Nirmala Mary, R. Geetha and A. Veeramani','200 Interaction effect of Calcium and Boron on Growth, Yield Attributes and Yield of Groundnut in Vylogam Soil Series of Madurai District M. David Israel Mansingh.pdf','',1,'A field experiment was carried out to investigate the interaction impact of calcium and boron on increasing groundnut yield in the Vylogam soil series in Madurai district during the rabi season 2019. The experiment was designed in a factorial randomized block design with three replications having 20 treatmental combinations including four levels of calcium (0, 100, 150, 200 kg per Ca ha-1 applied through gypsum) as factor A and five levels of boron (0, 0.5, 1.0, 1.5, 2.0 kg B ha-1 applied through borax) as factor B. Calcium and boron levels were revealed to have a significant influence on groundnut growth and yield properties. The treatment receiving Ca @ 150 kg ha-1 and B 1.5 kg ha-1 was proved to be the most effective in improving growth and yield characteristics. The interaction of calcium and boron exhibited a strong synergistic relationship at Ca150 B1.5 kg ha-1 on growth and yield of groundnut (VRI 2) with pod yield (2317 kg ha-1) and haulm yield (3463 kg ha-1). ','Groundnut, Calcium, Boron, Growth, Yield attributes.','Result of the current study can be concluded that the application of 150 kg Ca ha-1 + 1.5 kg B ha-1 were found to be the optimum for better growth and yield of groundnut crop in the soils of Vylogam series of Madurai district of Tamil Nadu.','-','M. David Israel Mansingh, P. Saravana Pandian, P. Christy Nirmala Mary, R. Geetha and A. Veeramani (2022). Interaction Effect of Calcium and Boron on Growth, Yield Attributes and Yield of Groundnut in Vylogam Soil Series of Madurai District. Biological F'),(3833,'112','Vertical Distribution of Macro Nutrients and Micronutrients of Ridhora Watershed in Nagpur district, Maharashtra, India','Ommala D. Kuchanwar, V.V. Gabhane and Sagar N. Ingle*','201 Vertical Distribution of Macro Nutrients and Micronutrients of Ridhora Watershed in Nagpur district, Maharashtra, India Sagar N Ingle.pdf','',1,'Soil fertility is one of the important factors controlling yields of the crops. Soil characterization in relation to evaluation of fertility status of the soils of an area or region is an important aspect in context of sustainable agriculture production. Because of imbalanced and inadequate fertilizer use coupled with low efficiency of other inputs, the response (production) efficiency of chemical fertilizer nutrients has declined tremendously under intensive agriculture in recent years. The existing have a look at undertaken to evaluate the nutrient fame of soils of Ridhora watershed in Nagpur district, Maharashtra during the year 2010-11. The nutrient status in soil profile of Ridhora watershed area. Based totally of fertility ratings, pH of soils turned into neutral to alkaline. Electric conductivity became ordinary (<1.0 dS/m). Soil organic carbon was low to high, with extra than 70% of examine area falling in the medium to high class. Whereas the soil were low to high 126.38 ','Available (N, P, K,) and micronutrient Fe micronutrient Fe, Mn, Cu and Zn, Mn, Cu and Zn.','In the current study, the soil test report values are used to classify several significant soil features like village wise soil fertility indices of available Nitrogen (N), Available Phosphorus (P), Available Potassium (K), Organic Carbon (OC) along with Micronutrient like Fe, Mn, Zn, Cu as well as the parameter Soil Reaction (pH), CEC and CaCO3. The classification and prediction of the village wise soil parameters aids in reducing wasteful expenditure on fertilizer inputs, increase profitability, save the time of chemical soil analysis experts, improves soil health and environmental quality.','-','Ommala D. Kuchanwar, V.V. Gabhane and Sagar N. Ingle (2022). Vertical Distribution of Macro Nutrients and Micronutrients of Ridhora Watershed in Nagpur district, Maharashtra, India. Biological Forum â€“ An International Journal, 14(1): 1140-1145.'),(3834,'112','Evaluation of Genetic Potential between F2 and F3 Generations of Cowpea (Vigna unguiculata L.) Walp.) using Parent Progeny Regression Analysis','V. Manimozhi Selvi*, A. Nirmalakumari, C.R. Anandakumar and R. Amudha','202 Evaluation of Genetic Potential Between F2 and F3 Generations of Cowpea _Vigna unguiculata L._ Walp._ using Parent Progeny Regression Analysis V Manimozhi Selvi.pdf','',1,'The productivity potential of cowpea in Tamil Nadu is low 265 kg/ha as compared to the national productivity. This clearly indicates the necessity to identify the reason for such a low productivity in India and particularly in Tamil Nadu. The limited number of cowpea breeding programs in Tamil Nadu has contributed to the ineffective production. To overcome this issue, the main focus of the present investigation is to identify the promising segregants for further use in future breeding programmes. An investigation was carried out in F2 and F3 generations of four inter subspecies crosses of cowpea. The F2 and F3 progenies were evaluated along with their parents. The breeding nature of the segregants were investigated by parent progeny regression for the traits viz., days to first flowering, plant height, number of clusters per plant, number of pods per plant, pod length, number of seeds per pod, hundred seed weight and single plant yield. Selected single plants based on days to first fl','Cowpea; Correlation, Path coefficient, Parent progeny regression, (Vigna unguiculata L. Walp).','It may be concluded that, number of clusters per plant, number of pods per plant, number of seeds per pod and hundred seed weight were the yield contributing traits and by performance, the crosses RC101 Ã— Vyjayanthi and ACM 05 07 Ã— Vyjayanthi were superior and desirable characters like dwarf, early duration and long purple pod inherited to their progenies in later generation.','-','V. Manimozhi Selvi, A. Nirmalakumari, C.R. Anandakumar and R. Amudha (2022). Evaluation of Genetic Potential Between F2 and F3 Generations of Cowpea (Vigna unguiculata L.) Walp.) Using Parent Progeny Regression Analysis. Biological Forum â€“ An Internatio'),(3835,'112','Study on Acceptability and Cost Structure of Paneer Whey Soup Blended with Tomato Powder','G.S. Gawad, R.R. Shelke, K.V. Jadhao*, P.A. Kahate, S.P. Nage and K.U. Bidwe ','203 Study on Acceptability and Cost Structure of Paneer Whey Soup Blended with Tomato Powder K.V. Jadhao.pdf','',1,'The present investigation was carried out in the Department of Animal Husbandry and Dairy Science, Dr. PDKV, Akola (Maharashtra) during the year 2020-21, with a view to utilizes Tomato Powder in preparation of Paneer Whey Soup with different combinations of Paneer Whey and Tomato Powder like 95:05, 90:10, 85:15, 80:20 and 75:25 in treatments T1, T2, T3, T4 and T5, respectively. The samples of Paneer Whey Soup were subjected to sensory evaluation by panel of judges. The Paneer Whey Soup prepared from combination of 90 per cent Paneer Whey and 10 per cent Tomato Powder was found acceptable with highest score in treatment T2 (8.66). The cost of most acceptable Paneer Whey Soup prepared with 10 per cent tomato powder was Rs. 70.90 per lit. and Rs. 14.18 for 200 ml bottle.','Paneer Whey Soup, Tomato Powder, Overall Acceptability, Cost of Production.','Sensory quality of in respect of flavour, colour and appearance, consistency and overall acceptability showed that, 10 per cent of Tomato Powder blended Paneer Whey Soup was acceptable. The cost of Paneer Whey Soup was increased with the increased in level of Tomato Powder in Paneer Whey Soup. The cost of most acceptable Paneer Whey Soup prepared with 10 per cent tomato powder was Rs. 70.90 per lit. and Rs. 14.18 for 200 ml bottle.','-','G.S. Gawad, R.R. Shelke, K.V. Jadhao, P.A. Kahate, S.P. Nage and K.U. Bidwe (2022). Study on Acceptability and Cost Structure of Paneer Whey Soup Blended with Tomato Powder. Biological Forum â€“ An International Journal, 14(1): 1154-1156.'),(3836,'112','Impact of Varied Sowing Dates on Incidence of Spotted Pod Borer and Gram Pod Borer on Indian bean, Lablab purpureus var. typicus (L.) Sweet in Semi-arid Region of Rajasthan','K. Anvesh*, Shivani Choudhary, K.C. Kumawat, S.K. Khinchi and Akhter Hussain','204 Impact of Varied Sowing Dates on Incidence of Spotted Pod Borer and Gram Pod Borer on Indian bean, Lablab purpureus var. typicus _L._ Sweet in Semi-arid Region of Rajasthan K. Anvesh.pdf','',1,'Indian bean, Lablab purpureus var. typicus (L.) Sweet (family: Fabaceae) is an important vegetable crop in India and other countries. It is presumed that pest appearance, population fluctuation, infestation rate and crop yield are dependent on sowing time. The manipulation of sowing time helps to minimize amount of pest damage by producing asynchrony between pest and host plant. Due to staggered sowing, pests are able to complete 1-2 additional generations in the season. In order to avoid supernumerary generations, sowing dates of crop can be adjusted in such a way that the crop is less palatable to the pest.\r\nThe experiment was laid out in a simple Randomized Block Design (RBD) with five treatments (date of sowing), each replicated four times. The plot size was 1.8 Ã— 1.8 m2 keeping row to row and plant to plant distance of 45 cm each. The Indian bean, variety Bauni was sown from 11th July, 2019 at weekly interval, i.e., 11th July (early), 18th July (mid early), 25th July (normal), 1s','Indian bean, Date of sowing, Spotted pod borer, Gram pod borer, Regression.','â€” The mean larval population of spotted pod borer, M. vitrata and gram pod borer, H. armigera was minimum in early sown crop (11th July), followed by Mid early (18th July), normal (25th July), late (1st August) and very late sown (8th August) crops. \r\nâ€” The pod yield was maximum in early sown crop (58.43 q/ha), followed by mid early (55.60 q/ha), normal (51.24 q/ha), late (46.82 q/ha) and very late sown crop (46.26 q/ha). The difference in population and pod yield was found to be significantly low between two consecutive dates but there was a \r\nsignificant variation in yield and pest population between early and very late sown crops. Hence in the semi-arid region of Rajasthan sowing of Indian bean crop in second or third week of July is appropriate to minimize damage by pod borers and to get higher yields. \r\nâ€” There was a positive correlation between sowing dates and larval population. Pod yield had negative correlation with sowing dates and larval population.\r\n','-','K. Anvesh, Shivani Choudhary, K.C. Kumawat, S.K. Khinchi and Akhter Hussain (2022). Impact of Varied Sowing Dates on Incidence of Spotted Pod Borer and Gram Pod Borer on Indian bean, Lablab purpureus var. typicus (L.) Sweet in Semi-arid Region of Rajastha'),(3837,'112','Appraisal to Efficacy of different Bioagents and Fungicides against Stem Rot of Cluster Bean incited by Sclerotium rolfsii ','Vijay Shree Gahlot*, Dataram Kumhar, Devender Kumar and Nitika Kumari','205 Appraisal to Efficacy of different Bioagents and Fungicides against Stem Rot of Cluster Bean incited by Sclerotium rolfsii Vijay Shree Gahlot.pdf','',1,'Cluster bean (Cyanosis tetragonoloba L.) Taub is a major leguminous crop in Indiaâ€™s dry and semi-arid regions during the Kharif season. Cluster bean stem rot, caused by Sclerotium rolfsii Sacc., has become a severe concern in recent years, resulting in yield losses of 50-70 percent, depending on the severity of the disease. For combating this disease, a variety of chemical fungicides are readily accessible, however many of them have developed resistance to the illness. This research intends to reduce the expense of agriculture caused by the use of ineffective chemicals and increase farmer revenue. The current study was conducted in the College of Agriculture, SKRAU, Bikaner, Rajasthan, at the Department of Plant Pathology and Experimental Farm. The experiment was set up in a randomised block design with twelve different treatments. During the experimentation, chemical fungicide, bioagents, and their combinations were investigated as seed as well as foliar spray treatments.\r\nTreatment','Sclerotium, Trichoderma, Bacillus, Cluster bean, and bio-agents.','Fungicidal treatment with Carboxin 37.5 percent + Thiram 37.5 percent + foliar spray with Tebuconazole 50 percent + Trifloxystrobin 25 percent (7.30 percent) was shown to be successful in controlling stem rot and minimising yield loss in the current study. Seed treatment with T. harzianum @ 10 g kg-1 seed + soil application of T. harzianum @ 10 kg ha-1 (mixed with 100 kg FYM) resulted in a disease incidence of 22.59 percent, which was considerably better than the control. This finding of this experiment will help the farmers to adopt a safer method for management. To obtain precise information on the efficacy of an effective treatment, integrated disease management studies must be conducted in the same area for two to three years.','-','Vijay Shree Gahlot, Dataram Kumhar, Devendra Kumar and Nitika Kumari (2022). Appraisal to Efficacy of Different Bioagents and Fungicides against Stem Rot of Cluster Bean incited by Sclerotium rolfsii . Biological Forum â€“ An International Journal, 14(1)'),(3838,'112','Bioefficacy of Potential Fungicides and Biocontrol Agents for Efficient Management of Soybean Pod Blight','Roja S. and Sunil Kulkarni','206 Bioefficacy of Potential Fungicides and Biocontrol Agents for Efficient Management of Soybean Pod Blight Roja S.pdf','',1,'To know the field efficacy of any new fungicide molecules and bioagents, there is a need to evaluate fungicides in vitro which provides useful and preliminary information regarding efficacy against pathogen within a shortest period of time and therefore, serves as a guide for field testing. An experiment was conducted to evaluate the bioefficacy of fungicides and bioagents against Colletotrichum truncatum causing pod blight of soybean at Deparment of Plant Pathology, UAS Raichur. Among seven non-systemic fungicides, systemic fungicides and combi fungicides evaluated against C. truncatum under in vitro, copper oxychloride 50 % WP, hexaconazole 5 % EC, propiconazole 25% EC, carbendazim 50 % WP, thiophanate methyl 70 % WP, and all the combi fungicides were found highly effective in inhibiting the complete mycelial growth of the pathogen with cent per cent mycelial inhibition. Among bioagents evaluated, T. harzianum and T. asperellum showed maximum mycelial growth inhibition. Effective fun','Soybean, pod blight, Fungicides, Per cent inhibition, management.','Copper oxychloride 50 per cent WP, hexaconazole 5 per cent EC, propiconazole 25 per cent EC, carbendazim 50 per cent WP, thiophanate methyl 70 per cent WP, and all combi fungicides were found to be highly effective in inhibiting the pathogen\'s complete mycelial growth with 100 per cent mycelial inhibition, according to the results of this study. Seed treatment with T. harzianum (5g/ kg seed), followed by sprays with tebuconazole + trifloxystrobin (0.05 per cent) at 60 DAS and sprays of Pseudomonas fluorescens (1 per cent) at 75 DAS, were found to be significantly more effective than all other treatments in managing soybean pod blight, with a minimum disease index (PDI) of 12.62 and the highest yield (20.33 q/ ha) and BC ratio of 1.76.','-','Roja S. and Sunil Kulkarni (2022). Bioefficacy of Potential Fungicides and Biocontrol agents for Efficient Management of Soybean Pod Blight. Biological Forum â€“ An International Journal, 14(1): 1169-1178.'),(3839,'112','Study on Bio-physical Impact by Adoption of Climate Resilient Technologies in Agriculture','Peddi Naga Harsha Vardhan, Prabhat Kumar Pal, Deepa Roy and Sabita Mondal','207 Study on Bio-physical Impact by Adoption of Climate Resilient Technologies in Agriculture Akhtar.pdf','',1,'Climate change became an important area of concern for India to ensure food and nutritional security for growing population. The impact of climate change on India is more vulnerable in view of the high population depending on agriculture. Evolving climate resilient agricultural technologies would increase farm production and productivity. Continuous management of natural and manmade resources constitute an integral part of sustaining agriculture in the era of climate change. National Innovations on Climate Resilient Agriculture (NICRA) is a network project of the Indian Council of Agricultural Research (ICAR) launched with the aim to enhance resilience of Indian agriculture to climate change and climate vulnerability through strategic research, technology demonstration, capacity building and sponsored/competitive Grants. This study was concentrated on the biophysical impact of climate resilient technologies The study was conducted in two districts i.e., Coochbehar and Malda in two NIC','Climate Change, Bio-physical impact, KVK, Adopted, Non adopted.','Considering the bio physical impact due to adoption of climate resilient technologies adopters have more mean impact score when compared with non adoptersâ€™ i.e. Adopters have 0.47 mean score and non adopters have 0.24 mean score. The bio physical impact of adoption of climate resilient technologies is also significantly higher in KVK adopted villages than non adopted villages. ','-','Peddi Naga Harsha Vardhan, Prabhat Kumar Pal, Deepa Roy and Sabita Mondal (2022). Study on Bio-physical Impact by Adoption of Climate Resilient Technologies in Agriculture. Biological Forum â€“ An International Journal, 14(1): 1179-1183.'),(3840,'112','Effect of Nitrogen and Sulphur on Growth and Yield of Summer Groundnut (Arachis hypogaea L.)','Lakkireddy Mallika Devi*, Rajesh Singh and Ekta Singh','208 Effect of Nitrogen and Sulphur on Growth and Yield of Summer Groundnut _Arachis hypogaea L._ Lakkireddy Mallika Devi.pdf','',1,'The present research trial was led during Zaid season of 2021, at crop research farm of Department of Agronomy, SHUATS, Prayagraj (U.P.) with the goal to evaluate the impact of different levels of nitrogen and sulphur on growth and yield of summer groundnut (Arachis hypogaea L.) under Randomized block design comprising of 9 treatments, with 3 different levels of nitrogen along with 3 different levels of sulphur that are replicated thrice. The results revealed that treatment T9 (50 kg/ha N + 40 kg/ha S) has recorded maximum plant height (56.95 cm), number of nodules/plant (48.20), plant dry weight (42.98 g/plant), crop growth rate (7.11 g/m2/plant), relative growth rate (0.005 g/g/day), number of pods/plant (20.60), kernels/pod (2.00), seed index (41.17g), pod yield (2741.00 kg/ha) and haulm yield (4371.00 kg/ha) at the time of harvest and harvest index (36.74%) was recorded highest with T6 (40 kg/ha N + 40 kg/ha S).','Groundnut, Nitrogen, Sulphur, Gypsum, Growth and Yield attributes.','On the basis of the present experiment on groundnut crop in zaid season, it is concluded that treatment T9 with the application of 50 kg/ha nitrogen along with 40 kg/ha sulphur has recorded significantly highest plant height, dry weight, pods/plant, pod yield and haulm yield respectively. ','-','Lakkireddy Mallika Devi, Rajesh Singh and Ekta Singh (2022). Effect of Nitrogen and Sulphur on Growth and Yield of Summer Groundnut (Arachis hypogaea L.). Biological Forum â€“ An International Journal, 14(1): 1184-1187.'),(3841,'112','Genetic Diversity of Chilli (Capsicum annum L.) Genotypes a Way Crop Improvement in Uttarakhand Hill Zones of India','Silaru Raghuveer*, Satish Chandra Pant, Rajendra Singh Chauhan and Pankaj Bahuguna','209 Genetic Diversity of Chilli _Capsicum annum L._ Genotypes a Way Crop Improvement in Uttarakhand Hill Zones of India Silaru Raghuveer.pdf','',1,'Uttarakhand has diverse geography with hilly regions possesses great diversity of vegetation including varieties of Chilli. In this study 19 different chilli genotypes are used for genetic diversity studies and these 19 genotypes was grouped into five clusters for variance analysis. Among the genotypes maximum were placed in cluster III (Nine genotypes) and cluster IV (Five genotypes). The cluster III (580.93) recorded maximum intra-cluster distance and the minimum was detected in cluster IV. The higher inter cluster distance (2384.003) were noted between the II and V cluster and maximum means for most of the valuable traits were noted in the IV and V Cluster. Yield characters showed towards total genetic divergence followed by quality parameters. In conclusion among the genotypes from cluster III, II, V and IV can be useful as a cultivars and also useful for valuable parenting lines in future crop improvement.','Capsicum; Diversity; Quality traits; D2 statistics.','The study shows that significant amount of genetic variability was observed among the nineteen genotypes for plant growth, yield and quality attributing characters of chilli germplasms. Highest intra-cluster distance was observed in cluster III (580.93) and the minimum was observed in cluster IV followed by cluster V. Genotypes from cluster V, IV, III and II can offer potential for their direct and indirect use as varieties and as potential parenting materials for crop improvement programme in chilli.','-','Silaru Raghuveer, Satish Chandra Pant, Rajendra Singh Chauhan and Pankaj Bahuguna (2022). Genetic Diversity of Chilli (Capsicum annum L.) Genotypes a Way Crop Improvement in Uttarakhand Hill Zones of India. Biological Forum â€“ An International Journal, '),(3842,'112','Identification of Sources of Resistance to Wilt caused by Ceratocystis fimbriata in Pomegranate','G. Abhishek, G. Manjunatha* , R.K. Mesta, R. Gunnaiah and R. Suma','210 Identification of Sources of Resistance to Wilt caused by Ceratocystis fimbriata in Pomegranate G. Manjunatha.pdf','',1,'A glass house experiment was conducted at the College of Horticulture, Bagalkot, Karnataka, during 2019 to identify potential rootstocks resistant/tolerant to Ceratocystis fimbriata. Wilt is one of the important diseases of pomegranate adversely affecting crop cultivation in all major growing regions of the country. The pathogen survives in the soil for many years that results disease mitigation is challenging. Managing wilt in pomegranate through an integrated approach has been suggested, and the use of resistant varieties is one of the economical methods. A total of 182 accessions were collected and screened under glasshouse condition by using sick pot method to identify source of resistance to pomegranate wilt. The results indicated that majority of the pomegranate genotypes exhibited complete susceptibility after pathogen inoculation. Only three cultivars Bedana Suri, Yercaud and Yercaud local displayed delayed wilting symptom upto 360 days after pathogen inoculation. These materia','Pomegranate, Ceratocystis fimbriata, Pomegranate wilt, Host-plant resistance.','Ceratocystis fimbriata is the major cause of vascular pomegranate wilt. In addition, some pathogens have been reported to destroy root and collar stems of plants, likely to result in isolated wilt infections. Although appropriate wilt management strategies involving cultural practices, sanitation measures and chemical treatment have been developed and identified and provide satisfying wilt control, but there is a need to develop wilt-resistant rootstock to implement appropriate wilt-resistant varieties to ensure a more economical and efficient wilt management strategies. Only three cultivars Bedana Suri, Yercaud and Yercaud local displayed delayed wilting symptom up to 360 days after pathogen inoculation. A clear understanding of different host range, resistant rootstock evaluation and detailed understating of tolerant lines in near future may be helpful by successful breeding program for resistant cultivar development. Our results have made it possible to identify new sources of resis','-','G. Abhishek, G. Manjunatha, R.K. Mesta, R. Gunnaiah and R. Suma (2022). Identification of Sources of Resistance to Wilt caused by Ceratocystis fimbriata in Pomegranate. Biological Forum â€“ An International Journal, 14(1): 1193-1198.'),(3843,'112','Quantification of Bioactive Compounds in Piper Betle Leaf extract by Gas Chromatography Mass Spectrometry (GC-MS) Technique','P. Geetha*, V. Sathiamoorthy and M. Balakrishnan','211 Quantification of Bioactive Compounds in Piper Betle Leaf Extract by Gas Chromatography Mass Spectrometry _GC-MS_ Technique P. Geetha.pdf','',1,'Piper betle is a Piperaceae family scented perennial creeper. The leaves are high in bioactive compounds such as phenol, a compound with anti-tumor, anti-mutagenic, and immune modulatory activities. There are so many bioactive compounds present in betel leaves. To identify the major compound particularly the varieties grown Tamil Nadu is the major concern of the study. The aim of this study is to evaluate the bioactive compound in Piper betle leaves extract using Gas Chromatography Mass Spectrometry (GC-MS). Over 100 compounds were found in the GC-MS results, with 19 of them having a probability of greater than 30.The compound phentermine shows highest peak at retention time of 9.346 mins followed by Hexadecanoic acid, Tetradecanoic acid, Eugenol, Dodecanoic acid. Hexadecanoic acid shows the highest area% about 26.665% which indicate highest composition of hexadecanoic acid present in the betel leaf extract. The result revealed that the compound in betel leaf extract possess the medi','Piper betle leaves, Gas Chromatography Mass Spectroscopy, Retention Time and Area.','The compounds identified in the Piper betle leaf extract most have medicinal properties and some have antibacterial activities. Mostly, betel leaf extract consists of fatty acid compounds and also contains phenols, terpenes, amide groups and esters. The extract contains both saturated and unsaturated fatty acid. \r\nThe GC-MS results revealed phentermine and hexadecanoic acid were found in higher concentrations. Phentermine showed the highest peak at a retention time of 9.346 minutes, whereas hexadecanoic acid recorded the highest percentage area of 26.665%. The water solvent extraction mostly extracts fatty acids from the Piper betle leaf extract than the other compounds. Hence, it can be used for further processing like encapsulation.\r\n','-','P. Geetha, V. Sathiamoorthy and M. Balakrishnan (2022). Quantification of Bioactive Compounds in Piper Betle Leaf Extract by Gas Chromatography Mass Spectrometry (GC-MS) Technique. Biological Forum â€“ An International Journal, 14(1): 1199-1203.'),(3844,'112','Morphological Characterization of Sweet Potato (Ipomoea batatas (L.) Lam.) Genotypes','Iranna Hejjegar*, S.M. Hiremath, Ramachandra Naik K., V.S. Patil, R.M. Kachapur and Shekharappa','212 Morphological Characterisation of Sweet Potato _Ipomoea batatas _L._ Lam._ Genotypes Iranna Hejjegar.pdf','',1,'Sweet potato (Ipomoea batatas (L.) Lam.) is one of the important tuber crops of tropical and sub-tropical regions of the world. Studies on morphological characterization of 51 sweet potato genotypes were carried out at Shalmala Vegetable Research Centre, Regional Horticultural Research and Extension Centre (RHREC), Dharwad (University of Horticultural Sciences, Bagalkot) during rabi, 2019-20 and 2020-21. Aim of study is to know the morphological variations in collected genotypes. The sweet potato genotypes showed wide morphological variability for plant type, inter-nodal length, leaf size, mature leaf shape, petiole length, tuber shape, tuber skin color and tuber flesh color. The observed morphological characters variations were used to discriminate genotypes into different groups. The morphological study helps for identifying superior genotypes for variety development.','Sweet potato; Morphology; Genotypes.','Significant morphological variation were observed among the 51 sweet potato genotypes studied. Majority of genotypes having semi erect plant (30 genotypes), short inter-nodal length (43 genotypes), medium size leaf (39 genotypes), very deep lobed leaf (29 genotypes) and short petiole length (43 genotypes). Similarly tuber shape, tuber skin colour and flesh colour showed greater variability. The study reveals that the morphological characters used in this study would effectively discriminate the different genotypes. The evaluation of morphological characters of distinct genotypes helps for identifying superior genotypes for crop improvement.','-','Iranna Hejjegar, S.M. Hiremath, Ramachandra Naik K., V.S. Patil, R.M. Kachapur and Shekharappa (2022). Morphological Characterization of Sweet Potato (Ipomoea batatas (L.) Lam.) Genotypes. Biological Forum â€“ An International Journal, 14(1): 1204-1209.'),(3845,'112','Production Performance of Indian Groundnut: An Analysis of Growth and Instability','Pallepati Ashwini* and Vanita K. Khobarkar','213 Production Performance of Indian Groundnut An Analysis of Growth and Instability Pallepati Ashwini.pdf','',1,'Groundnut is one of the major edible oilseeds in the world. It contributes a significant portion to the worldâ€™s oilseed economy. India is the second largest producer of groundnuts in the world. Indian groundnut has the ability to bridge the gap between domestic demand and supply of edible oil if it is brought under more acreage. \r\nThis paper examines the growth and instability in area, production and productivity of groundnut in India for the period 1988-89 to 2017-18. Growth rate analysis was used to study the annual growth in area, production and yield of groundnut. Instability in groundnut production was measured using Coefficient of variation and Coppockâ€™s instability index. This study was taken up to provide implications for reducing the gap between demand and supply of groundnut which is one of the major edible oilseeds in the world. Results showed that the growth rate of groundnut area in India was found to be negative and significant during overall period of the study. The ','Coefficient of Variation, India Groundnut, Analysis of Growth, Instability, Production, Productivity.','There is an immense scope to expand Indiaâ€™s potential of groundnut production. Groundnut acreage at country level had shown decreasing trend. There is a necessity to restrict further reduction by opting appropriate support policy measures like public private partnership through linkages with oil extraction industries so as to encourage farmers to grow groundnut, implementation of price support policies and contract farming. High priority should be given to increase the production and export of groundnut. This is necessary to meet the increasing domestic demand on one hand and to build up a sustainable supply to meet international markets for earning foreign exchange through groundnut export on the other hand.','-','Pallepati Ashwini and Vanita K. Khobarkar (2022). Production Performance of Indian Groundnut: An Analysis of Growth and Instability. Biological Forum â€“ An International Journal, 14(1): 1210-1214.'),(3846,'112','Decision Making Ability of KVK Trained Farm Women in Dairy farming Activities in Bidar District of Karnataka State','Sunilkumar N.M., Archana, Akshaykumar*, Ningdalli Mallikarjun, Rakesh Varma and Ashritha B.','214 Decision Making Ability of KVK Trained Farm Women in Dairy farming Activities in Bidar District of Karnataka State Akshaykumar.pdf','',1,'The present study was carried out in four taluks of Bidar district of Karnataka state during 2021 to analyse the decision making of KVK trained farm women in dairy farming activities in Bidar district. One hundred twenty dairy farm women, who were the member of Milk Producer Co-operative Society (MPCS) were randomly selected. The results revealed that 44.17 per cent of dairy farm women belonged to medium decision making category in dairy activities. Out of 14 independent variables, five independent variables namely, age, education, dairy experience, extension participation, and economic motivation had positive and significant relationship at 0.05 level of probability, whereas mass media exposure and achievement motivation had positive and significant relationship at 0.01 level of probability. Currently this research study affords treasured information to the KMF officials, other extension personnel, policy makers and planners about the extent of decision making pattern of women in dair','Dairy farm women, Decision making and livestock.','The study result evidently proves that the KVK farm womenâ€™s belongs to medium decision making category in dairy activities. Hence the dairy farm women require capacity building on recent technologies and, encourage them to take more decision to make dairy industry self- sustainable.','-','Sunilkumar N.M., Archana, Akshaykumar, Ningdalli Mallikarjun, Rakesh Varma and Ashritha B. (2022). Decision Making Ability of KVK Trained Farm Women in Dairy farming Activities in Bidar District of Karnataka State. Biological Forum â€“ An International J'),(3847,'112','Molecular Identification and Evaluation of different Chemicals and Bioagents against Pomegranate Wilt caused by Ceratocystis fimbriata under Greenhouse condition','G. Abhishek, G. Manjunatha*, R.K. Mesta, R. Gunnaiah, D.R. Patil and R. Suma','215 Molecular Identification and Evaluation of different Chemicals and Bioagents against Pomegranate Wilt caused by Ceratocystis fimbriata under Greenhouse Condition G. Abhishek.pdf','',1,'A lab and greenhouse experiment was conducted at the College of Horticulture, Bagalkot, Karnataka, during 2019 for molecular identification of Ceratocystis fimbriata and to evaluate chemicals and bioagents against pomegranate wilt. Pomegranates are susceptible to a variety of serious diseases, the most devastating of which is pomegranate wilt caused by C. fimbriata. It is critical to identify and manage C. fimbriata accurately and quickly. Results revealed that designed primer produced or amplified a single band of 268 bp in fungal DNA and infected root sample but not in healthy root sample. Under greenhouse condition data obtained 120 days after drenching revealed that propiconazole @ 0.2% recorded 22.77 % of branches infected which was on par with tebuconazole @ 0.2% which recorded 24.03 % of branches infected. This result help for accurate identification of pathogen and to develop different IDM modules for management of pomegranate wilt under filed condition.','Pomegranate, Pomegranate wilt, Ceratocystis fimbriata, PCR, Molecular identification, Chemical management, Bioagents.','The PCR assay developed is precise, rapid and consistent. Therefore, for the study of pathogen biology and host-pathogen interactions, this assay will be very useful and gain immense perception to address underlying problems with pomegranate wilt complex. This could be a useful tool for early-stage pomegranate wilt identification and diagnosis. Considering all of these findings and facts, it is strongly recommended that the PCR assay be used as an efficient and dependable tool for evaluating pomegranate plants. Greenhouse evaluation of different fungicides and bioagents provides primary results and information regarding their efficacy against pomegranate wilt caused by C. fimbriata and with an idea to utilize these promising fungicides and bioagents and combination as different modules for management of pomegranate wilt under field conditions.','-','G. Abhishek, G. Manjunatha, R.K. Mesta, R. Gunnaiah, D.R. Patil and R. Suma (2022). Molecular identification and evaluation of different chemicals and bioagents against pomegranate wilt caused by Ceratocystis fimbriata under greenhouse condition. Biologic'),(3848,'112','Studies on Infestation of Maize Stem Borer Chilo partellus (Swinhoe) (Lepidoptera: Crambidea) in North Kashmir','Waseem Ahmad War*, Shafiq Ahmad Hakeem, Umer bin Farook, Jameela Rasool, Ishfaq Majeed Shah, Saima Bashir and Showkat Ahmad Sheikh','216 Studies on Infestation of Maize Stem Borer Chilo partellus _Swinhoe_ _Lepidoptera Crambidea_ in North Kashmir Waseem Ahmad War.pdf','',1,'The survey was carried out at various locations of Kupwara district (North Kashmir) in Jammu and Kashmir, viz. high, mid and low altitude during the year 2019. The study revealed that leaf infestation commenced from 24th standard week and lasted up to 40th standard week reaching its peak infestation of 48.05% at 32nd standard week. Maximum leaf infestation was observed in low altitude (30.62%) followed by mid (23.99%) and high (13.56%). Deadheart were observed from 24th standard week till 30th standard week with its peak of 21.90% in 28th standard week. Highest dead heart formation was recorded in low altitude (10.44%) followed by mid (8.31%) and high altitude (5.2 %) respectively. Stem tunnelling caused by maize stem borer was observed from 34th standard week up to the crop maturity. Maximum mean tunnel length was found in low (5.57 cm) followed by mid (3.43 cm) and high (1.72 cm) altitudes, respectively. The maize stem borer is gaining status of key pest under temperate conditions o','Altitude, Deadhearts, Infestation, Stem tunnelling','Maize stem borer is serious pest of maize in north kashmir causing huge losses every year. The occurrence of multiple resistance system in association with low natural enemy population the pest is growing and expanding its range to every corner of the UT of Jammu and Kashmir. It is imperative to develop IPM strategies against the pest in order to avoid resistance and resurgence. It was seen that the low altitude areas are more prone to Chilo partellus attack among all the three altitudes of Kupwara district. The Chilo partellus sympotms viz; leaf infestation, dead hearts and stem tunnelling were observed more in low altitude followed by mid and High.','-','Waseem Ahmad War*, Shafiq Ahmad Hakeem, Umer bin Farook, Jameela Rasool, Ishfaq Majeed Shah, Saima Bashir and Showkat Ahmad Sheikh (2022). Studies on Infestation of Maize Stem Borer Chilo partellus (Swinhoe) (Lepidoptera: Crambidea) in North Kashmir. Biol'),(3849,'112','Stability Analysis for Grain Yield and Yield Contributing Traits in Hybrid Rice','Gonya Nayak P.*, Sujatha M., Chandra Mohan Y., Saida Naik D. and Kiran Babu T.','217 Stability Analysis for Grain Yield and Yield Contributing Traits in Hybrid Rice Gonya Nayak P.pdf','',1,'An experiment was conducted using 56 rice genotypes along with two standard checks (hybrid check, US 314 and Varietal check, Tellahamsa) in three different locations of Telangana state to assess their stability in terms of grain yield and number of productive tillers per plant in diverse environments during Rabi 2020-21 (Jagtial, Rudrur and Rajendranagar). Aim of this study is to identify the high yielding stable hybrids tolerant to blast and cold suitable to rabi season for Telangana state. The analysis of variance for number of productive tillers per plant and grain yield per plant for genotypes, environment and genotype-environment interaction were highly significant indicating the variable response of genotypes and environments. Among the parents JGL 35126, IR 72 and JGL 34551 were stable for the characters grain yield per plant, number of productive tillers per plant. The hybrids, JMS 13A Ã— RNR 2354 (37.41 g), CMS 46A Ã— JGL 34551 (35.06 g) and JMS 13A Ã— ZGY 1 (34.78 g) shown si','Hybrids, Grain yield and stability.','According to the findings of this study, stability analysis provided a good understanding of the adaptation level of rice genotypes across a wide range of environments. As a result, all genotypes interacted with the environment differently for different characters, and some genotypes were identified as stable for the various characters studied. Among the parents, JGL 35126 was found to be stable for the characters grain yield per plant and number of productive tillers per plant, whereas RNR 2354, RNR 21571, and JGL 35047 were stable for number of productive tillers per plant and IR 72 and JGL 34551 were stable for grain yield per plant. In contexts of hybrids, JMS 13A RNR 2354 was stable in terms of grain yield per plant and number of productive tillers per plant. CMS 49A Ã— JGL 34551 was stable for grain yield, while JMS 13A Ã— ZGY 1 was stable for grain yield per plant and number of productive tillers per plant.\r\nThe current study, however, was confined to one season and three locati','-','Gonya Nayak P., Sujatha M., Chandra Mohan Y., Saida Naik D. and Kiran Babu T. (2022). Stability Analysis for Grain Yield and Yield Contributing Traits in Hybrid Rice. Biological Forum â€“ An International Journal, 14(1): 1230-1234.'),(3850,'112','Response of Potato (Solanum tuberosum L.) to Integrated Nutrient Management in Sandy Loam Soils of Punjab','Ankush Chaudhary* and Monisha Rawat','218 Response of Potato _Solanum tuberosum L._ to Integrated Nutrient Management in Sandy Loam Soils of Punjab Ankush Chaudhary.pdf','',1,'A field experiment was conducted to study the effect of integrated nutrient management on the vegetative growth, yield and quality of potato cultivar Kufri Chipsona-3 in sandy loam soils of Punjab. The field experiment was laid out in a randomized block design which involved the integrated use of different biofertilizers, organic manures and chemical fertilizers i.e., NPK, FYM (Farm Yard Manure), vermicompost, bio-fertilizers (phosphorus solubilizing bacteria and Vesicular Arbuscular Mycorrhizae) and absolute control to study the yield and quality parameters. The study revealed that maximum yield (27.9 t/ha) was obtained in the treatment which included integrated use of 75% recommended dose of NPK + FYM (Farm Yard Manure) @ 50 t/ha + PSB @ 10 kg/ha as compared to other treatments. The treatment also had positive effect on growth, quality and other yield attributes viz. plant height (39.85 cm, 48.73 cm and 51.62 cm at 30, 60 and 90 days after sowing respectively), number of compound lea','Biofertilizers, vermicompost, quality, Solanum tuberosum, yield.','Based on results obtained from the present investigation it may be concluded that application of 75% recommended dose of NPK + FYM (Farm Yard Manure) @ 50 t/ha + PSB @ 10 kg/ha increased the vegetative growth parameters [plant height (51.62 cm), number of compound leaves/plant (49.49)], quality parameters [dry matter (20.66%) and specific gravity (1.12 g/cm3)] and total yield (27.90 t/ha) of potato.','-','Ankush Chaudhary and Monisha Rawat (2022). Response of Potato (Solanum tuberosum L.) to Integrated Nutrient Management in Sandy Loam Soils of Punjab. Biological Forum â€“ An International Journal, 14(1): 1235-1240.'),(3851,'112','Screening and Physico-Chemical Bases of Resistance in Groundnut Germplasm Lines against Thrips','Shaik Moizur Rahman*, K. Vijayalakshmi and Ch V. Durga Rani','219 Screening and Physico-Chemical Bases of Resistance in Groundnut Germplasm Lines against Thrips Shaik Moizur Rahman.pdf','',1,'Thrips are major pests of peanut (Arachis hypogaea L.) worldwide, and they serve as vectors of devastating orthotospoviruses such as Tomato spotted wilt virus (TSWV) and Groundnut bud necrosis virus (GBNV). Host plant resistance is an effective eco-friendly management strategy and an important component of integrated pest management (IPM) to control damage due to thrips. Hence, screening of forty germplasm lines for thrips resistance was carried out at College Farm, College of Agriculture, Rajendranagar, PJTSAU, Hyderabad during rabi, 2019-2020. The screening experiment was laid in Randomized block design (RBD) with two replications. Twenty-five germplasm lines including the resistant check (ICGV 86031) recorded damage rating of 2 (1 to 20 per cent), while the remaining 15 lines had DR of 3 (21-30 %) against thrips. The 5 germplasm lines viz., ICGV 171015 (10.30%), ICGV 03043 (12.67%), ICGV 93468 (11.50%), ICGV 00298 (10.97%) and ICGV 02266 (12.34%) were on par with the resistant check','Groundnut, thrips, screening, correlation, physical, biochemical.','Twenty-five germplasm lines including the resistant check (ICGV 86031) had a damage rating of 2 I. e 1 to 20 per cent, while the remaining 15 lines had DR of 3 (21-30%) against thrips. The 5 germplasm lines viz., ICGV 171015 (10.30%), ICGV 03043 (12.67%), ICGV 93468 (11.50%), ICGV 00298 (10.97%) and ICGV 02266 (12.34%) were on par with the resistant check (12.59%) and were significantly different from the susceptible check (23.42%). Resistance to thrips in germplasm lines was due to significantly higher trichome density on leaf lamina, higher phenol and tannin content.','-','Shaik Moizur Rahman*, K. Vijayalakshmi and Ch V. Durga Rani (2022). Screening and Physico-Chemical Bases of Resistance in Groundnut Germplasm Lines against Thrips. Biological Forum â€“ An International Journal, 14(1): 1241-1247.'),(3852,'112','Standardization and Proximate Composition of Fortified Milk Beverage','S. Prithya*, Ayyavoo Preamnath Manoharan, B. Murugan and P.S.L. Sesh','220 Standardization and Proximate composition of Fortified Milk Beverage S. Prithya.pdf','',1,'Micronutrient deficiency is a persistent problem in India mainly due to low\r\ndietary diversity and poor nutrient density of staple foods. The trendiest processing technique to overcome nutritional deficiencies was food fortification which considered to be more cost effective and enables improvement of health. â€œFortificationâ€ means deliberately increasing the content of essential micronutrients in a food so as toimprove the nutritional quality of food and to provide public health benefit withminimal risk to health. As India is the largest producer of milk, which is a staple food it can be fortify with essential nutrients such as vitamins, minerals, using fruit and vegetable resources. The main challenges of this research were to standardize the fortified milk beverage using natural resources rich in micronutrients, fatty acids and to study the physico-chemical parameters of the developed beverage. The ingredient levels was selected by performing conjoint analysis and in-bottle steri','Nutritional Deficiencies, Fortified milk beverage, Conjoint analysis, In-bottle sterilization.','One of the trendiest processing techniques to overcome nutritional deficiencies is food fortification, which is considered to be more cost effective in improving the health. For complete well-being, our body requires vitamins and minerals as nurturing agent that can curb the micronutrient deficiencies. Such micronutrient deficiencies can be alleviated by supplementing the fortified milk beverage prepared in this study. Fortified milk beverage is a drink that is designed to help childrenâ€™s health by contributing to their growth performance, brain development and in preventing from malnutrition. The major function of fortified milk beverage is to overcome micronutrient deficiencies but at the same time, it also energy for vital activities of the body.\r\nThe above mentioned optimal level of each ingredient was standardized by using conjoint analysis as statistical tool. Since milk lacks DHA, which is essential for the growth and development of brain for children, this beverage was fortif','-','S. Prithya, Ayyavoo Preamnath Manoharan, B. Murugan and P.S.L. Sesh (2022).Standardization and Proximate composition of Fortified Milk Beverage. Biological Forum â€“ An International Journal, 14(1): 1248-1254.'),(3853,'116','Problems of Women in Extremist Area: A Social Study','Nisha Singh','23 Problems of Women in Extremist Area A Social Study Nisha Singh.pdf','',1,'Women of Magadh region are always demoralized and have never been given the importance they deserve. They are always threatened, sexually assaulted and kept under control. They are never allowed to become self-independent. In addition, the problem of extremists in this region has made it worse for them. The lives of women are under constant fear and they also struggle for their family. In this paper, the lives of women are discussed and presented with the problems they face in their daily live in Magadh region. The impacts of extremists on their lives are also discussed with the new changes which are brought in their lives because of the new schemes introduced by the government. ','Women, Naxalbari, rural development, Extremist Area.','Extremists have highly impacted the lives of the people and despite the ill-consequences of their acts; many women have picked their sides because of hunger, torture or sexual assaults. On the other hand, many women stood against the extremists to fight them by becoming the informer for the police and other legal armed forces. Other women who are not involved in any of these activities are also being suspected of being connected. Overall, in all the cases, lives of women are always in danger in extremist areas of Magadh division. Many initiatives are taken by the government to make the women of the Magadh region self-dependent through providing them with schemes, education and training for small scale businesses. Even though the present scenario exhibits some improvement in the situation, many more aspects are yet to covered like their safety. They must be motivated towards new businesses and provided with government jobs. Instead of short term training, long term training must be prog','[1]. McCuen, R. (1992). Book Reviews: Book eviews. JAWRA Journal of the American Water Resources Association, 47(3), 650â€“653. https://doi.org/10.1111/j.1752-1688.2011.00553.x\r\n[2]. Roy, S. (2006). Revolutionary marriage: On the politics of sexual stories in Naxalbari. Feminist Review, 83, 99â€“118. https://doi.org/10.1057/palgrave.fr.9400283\r\n[3]. Roy, S. (2007). The everyday life of the revolution: Gender, violence and memory. South Asia Research, 27(2), 187â€“204. https://doi.org/10.1177/026272800702700204\r\n[4]. Rudman, L. A., & Fairchild, K. (2004). Reactions to counterstereotypic behavior: The role of backlash in cultural stereotype maintenance. Journal of Personality and Social Psychology, 87(2), 157â€“176. https://doi.org/10.1037/0022-3514.87.2.157\r\n\r\n','Nisha Singh (2009). Problems of Women in Extremist Area: A Social Study.International Journal of Theoretical & Applied Sciences, 1(1): 141-144. \r\n\r\n'),(3854,'112','Historical Background and Status of Sericulture Industry in Assam - A review','Aparupa Borgohain and Debajit Borah','221 Historical Background and Status of Sericulture Industry in Assam - A review Aparupa Borgohain.pdf','',1,'Assam is the leading producer of non mulberry silk which produces around two-thirds of India\'s total non mulberry silk production and so far as the production of muga silk. The rise in the annual production of non mulberry raw silk in Assam in last 10 years showing an increasing trend with several folds where as the mulberry sector in Assam is still in nascent condition with few tons of annual production. In Assam, most of the people lives in villages and has a diverse culture and tradition throughout the state. The sericulture sector holds enormous promise for the rural population in providing their livelihood in the state. The present study was undertaken to review the genesis and current status of the sericulture sector of Assam, because there is enormous scope for development of sericulture sector in the rural areas due to its high potentialities of raising income of people in Assam if scientific rearing of silkworm for commercial purpose can be considered seriously as a source of ','Eri, Muga, Mulberry, Production, Raw silk, Sericulture, Silkworm.','India is the only country in the world where all the four varieties of silk viz., mulberry, tassar, eri and muga are produced (Bharathi, 2016). India has tremendous potential for development of sericulture industry but yet unexploited, however, development is not far away (Dewangan et al., 2011). Assam has the most important advantage that the golden yellow coloured muga silk is produced only in Assam in the world. Nowadays the Assam silk industry is well established in the Indian silk sector and the growth scenario for the industry seem to be cheerful. There are some limitations such as small land holding for cultivation of host plant, lake of marketing network and insufficient supply of disease free seed act as a barrier for development of the sericulture sector in Assam. Research on additional technology and in the various aspects of sericulture with standardization of silk and silk products will positively expand the silk industry rapidly. Providing good quality seeds, imparting aw','-','Aparupa Borgohain and Debajit Borah (2022). Historical Background and Status of Sericulture Industry in Assam - A review. Biological Forum â€“ An International Journal, 14(1): 1255-1257.'),(3855,'112','Assessment of Clonal differences in Poplar (Populus deltoides) by Virtual Microscopy using Foldscope ','Anup Raj, Immad A. Shah*, Ashfaq A. Mir and Amjad M. Hussaini','222 Assessment of Clonal differences in Poplar _Populus deltoides_ by Virtual Microscopy using Foldscope Immad A. Shah.pdf','',1,'Populus deltoids is a commercially important, dioecious tree species grown widely in the Kashmir valley. Female plants produce huge amounts of cottony seed that pose respiratory problems. Morphologically, females are indistinguishable from the male plants until the plants attain sexual maturity in 5-8 years. Molecular technology can help detect the sex of genotypes in the initial stages, but these technologies require not only resources but are also not affordable in resource-limited environments. In the present study, we tried to find out differences in stomatal density among male and female clones of P. deltoids with the help of a foldscope. Five male and five female clones of the species were raised in a replicated trial. The average stomatal density in the mature leaves of one year old seedlings was found 379.98mm-2. There was no statistically significant difference in the stomatal density in upper and lower leaf surfaces. However, the stomatal density on the lower leaf surface in ','Populus deltoides, stomatal density, foldscope, male clones, female clones.','The findings of the study reveal that foldscope can be used to estimate stomatal density in trees. We also found a significant difference in stomatal density between male and female clones of Populus deltoides. Thus the technique can be used to develop an easy, field-based tool to distinguish female clones from male clones in the nursery stage well before the plants attain sexual maturity.','-','Anup Raj, Immad A. Shah*, Ashfaq A. Mir and Amjad M. Hussaini (2022). Assessment of Clonal differences in Poplar (Populus deltoides) by Virtual Microscopy using Foldscope. Biological Forum â€“ An International Journal, 14(1): 1258-1261.'),(3856,'112','Seasonal Incidence of Tea Mosquito Bug, Helopeltis spp. in Guava, cv. L-49 at MARS, Dharwad, Karnataka','Anandkumar V., Hugar, P. S. and Hiremath, S. M.','223 Seasonal incidence of tea mosquito bug, Helopeltis spp. in guava, cv. L-49 at MARS, Dharwad, Karnataka Anandkumar V.pdf','',1,'Tea mosquito bug (TMB) or guava kajji bug, Helopeltis spp. (Heteroptera: Miradae) is the most noxious insect pest that assumes major pest status in South and Central India. Major reason for the serious pest problems on guava can be attributed to its wide area of monoculturing and intensive cultivation practices. Adults and nymphs suck the sap from young leaves, tender shoots, flower buds and small fruits. If the fruits are young, they dry up and drop down. Damage to the leaves and shoots cause drying and withering of shoots. On fruits, with the maturation, the feeding punctures expand and results in corky formation affecting the marketable yield. This leads in loss of fruits to an extent of 60-70 per cent. The information with regard to pest status of tea mosquito bug and seasonal incidence in guava is lacking. In light of the above, the present investigations were undertaken. The incidence pattern of tea mosquito bug on guava was studied at Main Agricultural Research Station (MARS), U',' Seasonal incidence, tea mosquito bug, guava, correlation, weather parameters.','From the present investigation, it can be deduced that, incidence of Helopeltis spp. on guava persisted from June to December months. The peak infestation on young leaves, flower buds and fruits was observed during October month. Correlation studies on impact of weather parameters on infestation level of tea mosquito bug revealed significant negative correlation with respect to maximum temperature. However, relative humidity and rainfall were significantly positive correlated.','-','Anandkumar V. , Hugar, P. S. and Hiremath, S. M. (2022). Seasonal incidence of tea mosquito bug, Helopeltis spp. in guava, cv. L-49 at MARS, Dharwad, Karnataka. Biological Forum â€“ An International Journal, 14(1): 1262-1268.'),(3857,'116','Women Empowerment: A Need of Naxal affected Magadh Region','Nisha Singh','24 Women Empowerment A Need of Naxal affected Magadh Region Nisha Singh.pdf','',1,' The growth and development of human societies has been diversely analyzed across the globe. The distribution and existence of human races and the progress made thereof has put both the genders on the center stage, where, on one hand men have been shown responsible for major part of development and on the other women as deprived and neglected. This inequality between men and women is probably a most disturbing aspect of many modern societies, though gender inequity is a global phenomenon yet, it is more prominent in developing countries and countries having nondemocratic governments. It is most tragic part of human development that major part of female population of present day civilization is facing persistent hunger and abject poverty simply because of their subjugation, marginalization & systematic disempowerment. But of late it is the result of awakening of womenâ€™s consciousness which has led women to re-define their roles from a subordinate, dependent and child bearing tradition','Women empowerment, naxals, Magadh, rural.','For an Indian woman and citizen, freedom does not just mean those guaranteed under the Constitution. It also means more jobs, opportunities for entrepreneurship, increased safety, ease in day-to-day living, and protection of the girl child. In short, the road to womenâ€™s empowerment in Magadh region has several factors dotting its path. To ensure women are empowered, the government and the public sector need to play important roles to enable their welfare in various sectors. Whether itâ€™s providing free cooking gas and education schemes or enabling women to everage technology, a slew of schemes have been launched in recent years to empower women to be independent in their lives.\r\n The naxal affected Magadh region of Bihar faces many challenges in the development of the women. Empowering women will change the structure of thesenaxal affected areas and provide the state with new hands to support.\r\n','[1]. Gupta, K., & Yesudian, P. P. (2006). Evidence of womenâ€™s empowerment in India: A study of socio-spatial disparities. GeoJournal, 65(4), 365â€“380. https://doi.org/10.1007/s10708-006-7556-z\r\n[2]. Kabeer, N. (1999). Resources, Agency, Achievements: Re Â¯ ections on the Measurement of Womenâ€™ s Empowerment P1 Pt Scope. 30, 435â€“464.\r\n[3]. Kashyap, L. (2004). The impact of modernization on Indian families: The counselling challenge. International Journal for the Advancement of Counselling, 26(4), 341â€“350. https://doi.org/10.1007/s10447-004-0169-7\r\n[4]. Rudman, L. A., & Fairchild, K. (2004). Reactions to counterstereotypic behavior: The role of backlash in cultural stereotype maintenance. Journal of Personality and Social Psychology, 87(2), 157â€“176. https://doi.org/10.1037/0022-3514.87.2.157\r\n[5]. Women, I. C. for R. on. (2005). A Second Look at the Role Education Plays in Womenâ€™s Empowerment.\r\n\r\n','Nisha Singh'),(3858,'112','Cultural and Physiological studies on Alternaria alternata causing Blight of Marigold','Archana, A. M., Lokesha, M. S., Mahesh, Y. S., A. M. Shirol and Ashoka, N. ','224 Cultural and Physiological studies on Alternaria alternata causing Blight of Marigold Archana.pdf','',1,'Cultural and physiological studies on Alternaria alternata were studied at the Laboratory of Department of Plant Pathology, College of Horticulture, Bagalkot during 2018-2019. Marigold ranks first among the loose flowers in India. But, due to the increase in area, the crop is gradually becoming susceptible to many fungal and bacterial diseases mainly leaf blight which, affect the yield of the crop. The Potato Dextrose Agar (PDA) medium was used to maintain the pure culture isolated from infected marigold leaf and identified as Alternaria alternata (Fr.) Keissler. The cultural studies were conducted to know the effect of growth and sporulation in different media among them A. Alternata gave maximum mycelial growth (86.67) on the 8th day after incubation in a Potato dextrose agar (PDA) medium with better sporulation. Among liquid media, potato dextrose broth was observed most supportive for its growth. The various response of A. Alternata to different levels of temperature and pH showed ','Culture, morphology, physiology, Alternaria alternata.','In the present study, Alternaria alternata was isolated from the infected marigold crop. Twelve different media were used to observe the growth and sporulation. Potato dextrose media was found best for growth and sporulation. Maximum growth was found at 6.0 pH of media followed by 7.0 and temperature of 30 Â°C was found congenial for the pathogen growth. The present study will be helpful in the research being carried out by different workers studying this pathogen to understand its congenial condition for host-pathogen interaction.','-','Archana, A. M., Lokesha, M. S., Mahesh, Y. S., A. M. Shirol and Ashoka, N. (2022). Cultural and Physiological studies on Alternaria alternata causing blight of marigold. Biological Forum â€“ An International Journal, 14(1): 1269-1273.'),(3859,'112','Distribution and Severity of Turcicum Leaf Blight of Maize caused by Exserohilum turcicum (Pass.) Leonard and Suggs. in Northern parts of Karnataka','Meghana S. P.*, S. I. Harlapur, Ranjana Joshi and Pavitra','225 Distribution and Severity of Turcicum Leaf Blight of Maize caused by Exserohilum turcicum _Pass._ Leonard and Suggs. in Northern parts of Karnataka Meghana S.pdf','',1,'Maize (Zea mays L.) is the third most important cereal crop in India after wheat and rice in terms of production and productivity. Among various foliar diseases affecting the maize, turcicum leaf blight (TLB) caused by Exserohilum turcicum has become a major limiting factor for maize production affecting photosynthesis with severe reduction in grain yield to an extent of 28 to 91%. The disease effect leads to qualitative changes in the seed resulting in reduced germination capacity and decreased sugar content. In order to get comprehensive information on disease prevalence, level of incidence and severity, to prepare a disease distribution map and for hot spot location for screening of genotypes against disease resistance, a roving survey was carried out during kharif 2018-19 in major maize growing districts of northern parts of Karnataka viz., Bagalkot, Belagavi, Dharwad, Haveri and Uttara Kannada. The disease severity varied from 35.61% to 52.84%. The maximum disease severity of tur','Maize, Turcicum leaf blight, Exserohilum turcicum, Disease severity.','The results of roving survey carried out during kharif 2018 in Bagalkot, Belagavi, Dharwad, Haveri and Uttara Kannada districts revealed that maximum disease severity (52.84 PDI) of turcicum leaf blight was recorded in Sanavalli village of Uttara Kannada district. The district wise mean disease severity was maximum in Haveri district (50.61 PDI).\r\nIn order to identify the effect of rhythmic changes in the different crop grown conditions on incidence and severity of the disease and to know the status of the resistance in commercial high yielding hybrids, the survey and surveillance of the disease shall be carried out every year in different agro climatic regions in different seasons. \r\n','-','Meghana S. P.*, S. I. Harlapur, Ranjana Joshi and Pavitra (2022). Distribution and Severity of Turcicum Leaf Blight of Maize caused by Exserohilum turcicum (Pass.) Leonard and Suggs. in Northern parts of Karnataka. Biological Forum â€“ An International Jo'),(3860,'116','Problems of Women in Extremist Area: A Social Study','Nisha Singh','24 Problems of Women in Extremist Area A Social Study Nisha Singh.pdf','',1,'Women of Magadh region are always demoralized and have never been given the importance they deserve. They are always threatened, sexually assaulted and kept under control. They are never allowed to become self-independent. In addition, the problem of extremists in this region has made it worse for them. The lives of women are under constant fear and they also struggle for their family. In this paper, the lives of women are discussed and presented with the problems they face in their daily live in Magadh region. The impacts of extremists on their lives are also discussed with the new changes which are brought in their lives because of the new schemes introduced by the government.','Women, Naxalbari, rural development, Extremist Area.','Extremists have highly impacted the lives of the people and despite the ill-consequences of their acts; many women have picked their sides because of hunger, torture or sexual assaults. On the other hand, many women stood against the extremists to fight them by becoming the informer for the police and other legal armed forces. Other women who are not involved in any of these activities are also being suspected of being connected. Overall, in all the cases, lives of women are always in danger in extremist areas of Magadh division. Many initiatives are taken by the government to make the women of the Magadh region self-dependent through providing them with schemes, education and training for small scale businesses. Even though the present scenario exhibits some improvement in the situation, many more aspects are yet to covered like their safety. They must be motivated towards new businesses and provided with government jobs. Instead of short term training, long term training must be prog','[1]. McCuen, R. (1992). Book Reviews: Book eviews. JAWRA Journal of the American Water Resources Association, 47(3), 650â€“653. https://doi.org/10.1111/j.1752-1688.2011.00553.x [2]. Roy, S. (2006). Revolutionary marriage: On the politics of sexual stories in Naxalbari. Feminist Review, 83, 99â€“118. https://doi.org/10.1057/palgrave.fr.9400283 [3]. Roy, S. (2007). The everyday life of the revolution: Gender, violence and memory. South Asia Research, 27(2), 187â€“204. https://doi.org/10.1177/026272800702700204 [4]. Rudman, L. A., & Fairchild, K. (2004). Reactions to counterstereotypic behavior: The role of backlash in cultural stereotype maintenance. Journal of Personality and Social Psychology, 87(2), 157â€“176. https://doi.org/10.1037/0022-3514.87.2.157','Problems of Women in Extremist Area: A Social Study'),(3861,'112','Performance of Elite Rice genotypes against Rice Gall Midge, Orseolia oryzae (Wood- Mason) in Field Screening in Warangal, Telangana','R. Shravan Kumar*, B. Satish Chandra, K. Rajendra Prasad, U.Nagabhushanam, Y. Hari, A. Venkat Reddy and R. Uma Reddy','226 Performance of Elite Rice genotypes against Rice Gall Midge, Orseolia oryzae _Wood- Mason_ in Field Screening in Warangal, Telangana R. Shravan Kumar.pdf','',1,'83 elite rice genotypes were tested for resistance to rice gall midge [Orseolia oryzae (Wood-Mason)] in the field at Regional Agricultural Research Station, Warangal, Professor Jayashankar Telangana State Agricultural University (PJTSAU), Telangana during Kharif, 2021. Among 83 rice genotypes screened, WGL-1789, WGL-1790, WGL-1798 and WGL-1800 were found highly resistant and WGL-1767, WGL-1778, WGL-1782 and WGL- 1792 were found to be resistant to gall midge. These promising resistant entries could be utilized as donors in breeding programmes aimed at development of gall midge resistant varieties or can be utilized as varieties if yields are good and among different management strategies that are employed to reduce the damage caused by this insect-pest, use of resistant rice varieties appears to offer the most effective component for incorporation into an integrated pest management strategy.','Rice, screening, field, resistance, gall midge, Warangal.','The test rice genotypes WGL-1789, WGL-1790, WGL-1798 and WGL-1800 were highly resistant and WGL-1767, WGL-1778, WGL-1782 and WGL- 1792 were found resistant to rice gall midge. Hence, they could be utilized as donors in varietal development programmes aimed in development of gall midge resistant varieties or can directly be utilized as varieties if they are found good yielders.','-','R. Shravan Kumar, B. Satish Chandra, K. Rajendra Prasad, U.Nagabhushanam, Y.Hari, A. Venkat Reddy and R. Uma Reddy (2022). Performance of Elite Rice genotypes against Rice Gall Midge, Orseolia oryzae (Wood- Mason) in Field Screening in Warangal, Telangana'),(3862,'112','Novel Records of Testate Amoebae (Protozoa: Tubulinea and Cercozoa) from Peppara Wildlife Sanctuary, Agastyamala Biosphere Reserve, Kerala','Bindu L.','227 Novel Records of Testate Amoebae _Protozoa Tubulinea and Cercozoa_ from Peppara Wildlife Sanctuary, Agastyamala Biosphere Reserve, Kerala Bindu L.pdf','',1,'Studies on testate amoebae in Western Ghats of Kerala is meagre inspite of its rich biodiversity and only one species Quadrulella elegans Gauthier-Lievre, 1958 is reported from Peppara WLS, part of Agastyamala BR. Therefore, a study to document the moss inhabitant testate diversity was carried out and has filled the lacuna of TA study in the sanctuary to form the foundation for further investigation. The study revealed the occurrence of a total of 26 species belonging to 9 genera and 7 families. This report forms the baseline information for testate amoebae of Peppara WLS suggesting the high diversity of testate fauna in the protected area which can be still higher if further explored.','Agastyamala BR, Peppara WLS, Mosses, Protozoa, Testate amoebae, Kerala.','Testate amoebae are the least explored group of protozoans and the results of the present study gives the baseline information on this important fauna and elaborate studies would be helpful to explore the bioindicator species and thus to assess the health of the forest ecosystem. ','-','Bindu L. (2022). Novel records of testate amoebae (Protozoa: Tubulinea and Cercozoa) from Peppara Wildlife Sanctuary, Agastyamala Biosphere Reserve, Kerala. Biological Forum â€“ An International Journal, 14(1): 1284-1286.'),(3863,'112','Soil Fertility status and S and B uptake as Influenced by Tillage and Nutrient Management in Mustard','Shashank Tyagi*, Vinod Kumar, Sushant and M.K. Singh','228 Soil fertility status and S and B uptake as influenced by tillage and nutrient management in mustard Shashank Tyagi.pdf','',1,'Productivity of rainfed mustard is too low, largely due to lack of inadequate nutrient management and deficit moisture conservation in soil profile. Keeping issues in view, a field experiment was conducted in rabi season 2016-17 and 2017-18 at research farm of Bihar Agricultural College, Sabour, Bhagalpur to determine the impact of tillage and nutrient management on soil fertility and nutrient uptake of S and B in mustard. It comprised of main plot having three tillage strategies viz., conventional, zero and reduced tillage, three doses of S (0, 20 and 40 kg ha-1) in sub plots and three doses of B (0, 1.0 and 2.0 kg ha-1) in sub sub plots was laid out in split split plot design with three replications. Results revealed that increasing the intensity of tillage from zero tillage to reduced tillage and conventional tillage correspondingly increased S and B uptake by mustard during both the years. Increase in S level from 0 to 40 kg ha-1 registered corresponding increase in S and B uptake','Boron, Mustard, Nutrient uptake, Soil fertility, Sulphur and Tillage.','Thus, it might be concluded that application of 40 kg S ha-1, 2.0 kg B ha-1 and conventional tillage in mustard recorded highest nutrients (S & B) uptake besides improvement in available nutrients (S & B) in soil under zero tillage at same nutrient levels prevalent into nutrient enrichment with tillage practices. ','-','Shashank Tyagi*, Vinod Kumar, Sushant and M.K. Singh (2022). Soil fertility status and S and B uptake as influenced by tillage and nutrient management in mustard. Biological Forum â€“ An International Journal, 14(1): 1287-1291.'),(3864,'112','Correlation and Path Analysis for Seed Yield and its Contributing Traits in Sesame (Sesamum indicum L.)','Gangishetti Ranjithkumar* and Rajani Bisen','229 Correlation and Path Analysis for Seed Yield and its Contributing Traits in Sesame _Sesamum indicum L._ Gangishetti Ranjithkumar.pdf','',1,'A total 500 accessions were evaluated to determine the associationship among the traits along with their direct and indirect effects on seed yield. Observations were recorded on twelve traits viz., days to flower initiation, days to fifty percent flowering, days to maturity, plant height (cm), number of primary branches per plant, number of secondary branches per plant, number of capsules per plant, number of seeds per capsule, capsule length (cm), 1000 seed weight (g), seed yield per plant (g) and oil content (%). The experiment results revealed that Seed yield per plant exhibited significant positive correlation with number of seeds per capsule followed by capsule length and number of capsules per plant. Path analysis showed that number of seeds per capsule had the high positive direct effect on seed yield followed by number of capsules per plant. On the basis of correlation and path analysis number of seeds per capsule, number capsules per plant and capsule length were observed as t','Sesame, correlation, path analysis.','Correlation coefficients and path analysis were computed on different traits viz.,days to flower initiation, days to fifty percent flowering, days to maturity, plant height (cm), number of primary branches per plant, number of secondary branches per plant, number of capsules per plant, number of seeds per capsule, capsule length (cm), 1000 seed weight (g), seed yield per plant (g), oil content (%). Results revealed that, on the basis of correlation and path analysis number of seeds per capsule, number capsules per plant and capsule length were determined the most critical traits. Selection of these traits can be helpful for a breeder to improve the crop yield.','-','Gangishetti Ranjithkumar*and Rajani Bisen (2022). Correlation and Path Analysis for Seed Yield and its Contributing Traits in Sesame (Sesamum indicum L.). Biological Forum â€“ An International Journal, 14(1): 1292-1295.'),(3865,'112','Pre and Post-emergence Herbicides for the Control of Resistant Phalaris minor in Wheat','Ghulam Sakhi Qazizada, Todar Mal, Sushil Kumar* and Pardeep Kumar','230 Pre and Post-emergence Herbicides for the Control of Resistant Phalaris minor in Wheat Sushil Kumar.pdf','',1,'Continuous use of herbicides with same mode of action resulted in the development of multiple herbicide resistance in Phalaris minor threatening the sustainability of rice-wheat system in northern India. In this context, field study was conducted in rabi season 2018 at CCS Haryana Agricultural University, Hisar in randomized block design with three replications and seventeen treatments having different combinations of pre and post emergence herbicides, their mixture and seed treatment with Bacillus subtilis strain SYB 101. The result showed that application of pendimethalin @ 1000 g ha-1 (JAS) fb pinoxaden + metribuzin (tank mix) @ 50 + 105 g ha-1 at 35 DAS resulted in minimum dry matter accumulation of Phalaris minor (11.0 g), highest grassy weed control efficiency (81.8 %) at 90 DAS, maximum numbers of effective tillers (92.0 m-1 row length), grains spike-1 (59.9), 1000 grains weight (42.7 g) and highest grain, straw and biological yield (5761 kg ha-1, 8202 kg ha-1 and 13963 kg ha-1','Phalaris minor, pre and post-emergence herbicides, wheat','Based on the experiment it can be conclude that successive herbicide applications and herbicide combinations resulted in decreased weed density, weed dry weight, and higher weed control efficacy as compared to PoE herbicide application alone. Sequential application of pendimethalin 1000 g ha-1 (JAS) fb pinoxaden + metribuzin (tank mix) 50 + 105 g ha-1 at 35 DAS was found to be the most effective herbicidal treatment, yielding about 60% more grain than the weedy control.','-','Ghulam Sakhi Qazizada, Todar Mal, Sushil Kumar* and Pardeep Kumar (2022). Pre and post-emergence herbicides for the control of resistant Phalaris minor in wheat. Biological Forum â€“ An International Journal, 14(1): 1296-1302.'),(3866,'112','Communicational Behaviour of Farmers of Jabalpur District','Chandrika Sharma*, N.K. Khare, Seema Naberia and Ajay Raut','231 Communicational Behaviour of Farmers of Jabalpur District CHANDRIKA SHARMA.pdf','',1,'Communication plays a vital role in seeking information regarding cultivation, plant protection, market and price for farmers when it comes to producing and disposing the produce. The study was done to investigate the communicational behaviour of organic and conventional farmers through measuring their mass media and information source utilization. The research was carried out in 2021-22 in Jabalpur district of Madhya Pradesh with 120 organic and 120 conventional farmers from four different blocks. Selection of only four blocks for study proved as a challenge but with the help of agricultural department of the district, blocks with running cluster of organic farming was sorted. The results of the study pictured the facts that both the categories of the farmers had medium level of mass media exposure and information source utilization. Mobile and social media was the most frequently used medium of mass media among both category of farmers and friends and relatives were the most frequent','Communication, conventional, mass media exposure, organic, social media etc.','The communicational behaviour of the farmers practicing organic and conventional farming is found to be medium as both the categories of farmers falls under medium categories of mass media exposure and information source utilization. Mobile and social media is the most regularly used mass medium for both category of farmers as communication services like mobile and internet are cheaper and easily is available almost all in the nation. Organic farmers seek information mainly from friends, relatives, progressive farmers, e-extension and agricultural scientists regarding organic cultivation whereas convention farmers approaches input dealers and relatives for seeking information regarding cultivation and management. Since, organic farmers seek information firstly from the relatives and friends, scientific advisory should be made more approachable to them in the form of trainings, demonstrations, seminars, farmers fairs etc. Reliance of farmers on relatives and friends should be reduced to','-','Chandrika Sharma, N.K. Khare, Seema Naberia and Ajay Raut (2022). Communicational Behaviour of Farmers of Jabalpur District. Biological Forum â€“ An International Journal, 14(1): 1303-1307.'),(3867,'112','Decipher GXE Interaction of Wheat Genotypes by Multivariate, BLUP and Non Parametric Measures Evaluated in NEPZ ','Ajay Verma* and Gyanendra Pratap Singh','232 Decipher GXE interaction of Wheat genotypes by Multivariate, BLUP and Non Parametric measures evaluated in NEPZ Ajay Verma.pdf','',1,'Quite numbers of studies have compared with AMMI with BLUP or AMMI with non parametric measures, the present study made comparative analysis considering all type of analytic measures. AMMI analysis observed highly significant variations due to environments, GxE interactions, and genotypes with respective percent share 63.3% 20.7% 2.8% towards total sum square of variation for yield. Absolute IPCA-1 scores pointed for G1, G3 as per IPCA-2, genotypes G8, G7 would be of choice First two IPCAs in ASV & ASV1 measures utilized 50.1% of GÃ—E interaction sum of squares. Set of genotypes (G1, G7) and (G7, G6) recommended ASV1 and ASV. All seven significant IPCAs considered by MASV and MASV1 measures pointed towards G4, G2 genotypes. BLUP-based simultaneous selections, such as HMGV identified G8, G4, values of RPGV favored G8, G1 and HMRPGV estimates selected G8, G4 genotypes. Non parametric composite measure NPi (1) observed suitability of G6, G2 while NPi(2) selected G6, G9 whereas N','AMMI, BLUP, Si(s), NPi(s), Spearman rank Coefficient, Biplot analysis.','Environment and G x E interaction effects contributed were the most important with 63.3% and 20.7% of the variation, respectively. The results of the biplot and correlation analysis indicated weak and strong both types of relationships among the measures. However the nonparametric measures can be used to assess the stable behavior of genotypes over various environments.','-','Ajay Verma and Gyanendra Pratap Singh (2022). Decipher GXE interaction of Wheat genotypes by Multivariate, BLUP and Non Parametric measures evaluated in NEPZ. Biological Forum â€“ An International Journal, 14(1): 1308-1315.'),(3868,'112','Seasonal Incidence and Eco-friendly Management of Jassids in Cluster bean [Cyamopsis tetragonoloba (L.) Taub]','Ranjana Bali*, Amit Kumar Singh, P. K. Kumawat, Talim Hussain, Monika Singh, R. N. Sharma, Subhash Bajiya and Sardar Singh Kakraliya','233 Seasonal Incidence and Eco-friendly Management of Jassids in Cluster bean [Cyamopsis tetragonoloba _L._ Taub] Ranjana Bali.pdf','',1,'The field trial was conducted in Sher-e- Kashmir University of Agricultural Sciences and Technology, Jammu, Chatha, for investigating the seasonal incidence and eco-friendly management of jassids in correlation with the weather parameters. From the experiment it was estimated that the cluster bean is attacked by number of insect pest but sucking pests like jassids (Amrasca biguttula biguttula, Ishida) was seen to cause more damage to the crop in sub tropic Jammu. The study showed that the jassid population was at its peak in the 17th standard week during 2020. The correlation study shows that jassids had positive correlation with temperature whereas it shows negative correlation with relative humidity and rainfall. For eco-friendly management of jassid in clusterbean the following insecticides were selected such as neem oil, garlic oil, pongamia oil, novulran, Bacillus thuringiensis, Beauvaria bassiana, Metarrhizium anisopliae, spinosad. Among sprayed eco-friendly insecticides for the ','Eco-friendly, Novaluron, Spinosad, Jassid, Cluster bean, Incidence','The cluster bean is attack by large magnitude of insect pest among them the entire sucking pest like, jassids cause more damage to the crop and can be considered as the major pest of the crop. The study concluded that the jassid population was at its peak in the 17th standard week with 17.65 jassid leaf. Weather parameters play a crucial role in the insect-pest attack which requires the development of sustainable management strategy. correlation matrix between seasonal incidence of jassid and weather factors revealed that mean maximum and minimum temperature had positive and highly significant effect on jassid population. On the other hand mean relative humidity (morning and evening) and rainfall showed highly significant but negative effect on the jassid population. The evaluation of field bio-efficacy of botanicals, microbial insecticides, insect growth regulator and chemical insecticide against jassid, revealed that after two sprays spinosad 45 EC was found to be the best treatment ','-','Ranjana Bali*, Amit Kumar Singh, P. K. Kumawat, Talim Hussain, Monika Singh, R. N. Sharma, Subhash Bajiya and Sardar Singh Kakraliya (2022). Seasonal Incidence and Eco-friendly Management of Jassids in Cluster bean [Cyamopsis tetragonoloba (L.) Taub]. Bio'),(3869,'112','Assessment of Efficacy of Potential Fungicides and Biocontrol agents for Efficient Management of Phoma sp., causing Leaf Spot of Pigeonpea','Mamata S. G., Savitha A. S., Ajithkumar K., Yenjerappa S. T. and Mahadeva Swamy ','234 Assessment of Efficacy of Potential Fungicides and Biocontrol agents for Efficient Management of Phoma sp., causing Leaf Spot of Pigeonpea Savitha A.pdf','',1,'Though an effective disease management starts with cultural, mechanical and physical methods but practically the chemicals and use of biocontrol agents are important to reduce the outbreak of diseases. The efficacy of new fungicides at different concentrations pave the way for new recommendations with the replacement of old chemicals. To know the efficacy of any fungicide, there is need to test chemicals under laboratory conditions which provide primary information regarding efficacy of fungicides against pathogen within a shortest period of time. An experiment was conducted to evaluate the efficacy of fungicides and bioagents against Phoma sp., causing leaf spot in pigeonpea at Department of Plant Pathology, UAS Raichur. Among the bio-agents tested, T. hamatum (NAIMCC-F-04088) was found to be more effective and statistically significant over other bio-control agents in inhibiting the test fungus. Among, all the tested non-systemic, systemic and combi fungicides, mancozeb, propineb, he','Bioagents, Fungicides, Pigeonpea, Phoma sp., ','From the present study it was concluded that, Among the bio-agents tested, T. hamatum (NAIMCC-F-04088) was found to be more effective and statistically significant over other bio-control agents in inhibiting the fungu. Among all the tested non-systemic fungicides, systemic and combi fungicides, Mancozeb 75 % WP and Propineb 70 % WP, Hexaconazole 5 % EC and Propiconazole 25 % EC and all the tested combi fungicides were effective with 100 per cent inhibition at all the concentrations tested, respectively.','-','Mamata S. G., Savitha A. S., Ajithkumar K., Yenjerappa S. T. and Mahadeva Swamy (2022). Assessment of Efficacy of Potential Fungicides and Biocontrol agents for Efficient Management of Phoma sp., causing Leaf Spot of Pigeonpea. Biological '),(3871,'112','Effect of Seed Coating Types and Storage Period after Coating on Seed Germination (%) and Seedling Vigour in Pigeonpea','A. Akhil Reddy*, P. Sujatha , K. Jhansi Rani , B. Pushpavathi , T. Rajeshwar Reddy and K. Raghavendra','235 Effect of Seed Coating Types and Storage Period after Coating on Seed Germination and Seedling Vigour in Pigeonpea A. Akhil Reddy.pdf','',1,'Biological seed coating is a new seed treatment technology in which biological agents are coated on the seed surface to control seed and soil-borne pathogens. Using a biofriendly polymer as an adjuvant, pigeonpea seed was biologically coated with Trichoderma viride, Pseudomonas fluorescens, Phosphorus solubilizing bacteria (PSB), and Rhizobium spp. The current study, titled \"Studies on effectiveness of biological seed coating on seed quality parameters of Pigeonpea (Cajanus cajan L.), was performed at Department of Seed Science and Technology, Seed Research and Technology Centre and Agriculture Research Station, Tandur, PJTSAU, Hyderabad during the summer of 2018, Kharif of 2018, and Rabi of 2018-19 to investigate the effect of different types of seed coating and storage time after seed coating on pigeonpea seed germination (%) and seedling vigour. During the six-months storage period, the seed quality parameters were evaluated at bimonthly intervals. Six months after treatment, seed c','Pigeonpea, Biological seed coating, Biocontrol, biofriendly polymer, seed germination(%), seedling vigour.','Seed quality parameters were gradually decreased with the increase in storage period from initial month to 6MAT in pigeonpea. With regard to type of seed coatings, seeds coated with deltamethrin (insecticide) @ 0.04 ml kg-1seed + T. viride @ 4 g/kg seed + P. fluorescens @ 4 g/kg seed + B. subtilis @ 4 g/kg seed + Rhizobium @ 4 g/kg seed + biofriendly polymer (adjuvant) @ 4 g/kg seed showed good longevity by recording less reduction in seed germination (11%), SVI- I (776), SVI- II (12), compared to untreated control (24 %, 1012 and 22, respectively). Period of storage after seed coating showed a significant effect on seed quality parameters. Seeds coated 4 months before with insecticide (deltamethrin @ 0.04 g kg-1 seed) + bioagents (T. viride @ 4 g kg-1 seed + P. fluorescens @ 4 g kg-1 seed + B. subtilis @ 4 g kg-1 seed + Rhizobium @ 4 g kg-1 seed) + biofriendly polymer (@ 4 g kg-1 seed) showed better longevity by recording more SVI I (1250) and SVI II (67) at 6 months after storage and','-','A. Akhil Reddy*, P. Sujatha, K. Jhansi Rani, B. Pushpavathi, T. Rajeshwar Reddy and K. Raghavendra (2022). Effect of Seed Coating Types and Storage Period after Coating on Seed Germination (%) and Seedling Vigour in Pigeonpea. Biological Forum â€“ An Inte'),(3872,'112','Performance of Rice Varieties at different Moisture Regimes under Direct Seeded condition','Guda Adilakshmi, Rajan Kumar, Vinod Kumar, Vipin Kumar and S.K. Singh','236 Performance of Rice Varieties at different Moisture Regimes under Direct Seeded condition G. ADILAKSHMI.pdf','',1,'The current study \"Performance of rice varieties at different moisture regimes under direct seeded condition\" was conducted in a split plot design with three replications at Crop Research Centre-Dr. Rajendra Prasad Central Agricultural University, Pusa, Bihar during kharif (2018) in order to study the growth and yield of direct seeded rice at different moisture regimes. The treatments in main plot consisted of four moisture regimes i.e., M1-AWD at 3 Days (Irrigation was applied at 3 days after disappearance of ponded water), M2-AWD at 5 Days (Irrigation was applied at 5 days after disappearance of ponded water), M3-Saturation level till physiological maturity (Irrigation was applied at zero soil moisture potential) and M4-10 % of moisture depletion (Irrigation was applied at 10 % moisture depletion of Field capacity) and in sub plot consisted of three varieties i.e., V1-Rajendra Neelam, V2-Abhishek and V3-Rajendra Saraswati. The result revealed that plant growth and yield attributes li','Direct seeded rice, Moisture regimes, Varieties, Growth characters, Yield.','Based on the findings of this study, it can be stated that the growth characteristics, yield attributes, and yield of rice grown under direct seeding revealed that significantly higher values were obtained with the moisture regime of M1-AWD at 3 days but was found statistically at par with M3-Saturation level till physiological maturity. Among different varieties, variety Rajendra Neelam (V1) was recorded significantly superior value.','-','Guda Adilakshmi, Rajan Kumar, Vinod Kumar, Vipin Kumar and S. K. Singh (2022). Performance of Rice Varieties at different Moisture Regimes under Direct Seeded condition. Biological Forum â€“ An International Journal, 14(1): 1336-1340.'),(3873,'112','Standardising Planting Materials for enhancing Growth and Yield Parameters of Black Pepper (Piper nigrum) under Coconut based Ecosystem','K. Venkatesan','237 Standardising Planting Materials for enhancing Growth and Yield Parameters of Black Pepper Piper nigrum under Coconut based Ecosystem K. Venkatesan.pdf','',1,'Growth and yield of black pepper is greatly influenced by the type of planting material, but in India there exists a lack of quality planting material. Hence the present study was aimed to standardise the effect of different planting materials for enhancing the growth and yield of black pepper under coconut based ecosystem. Keeping the above thing in view, an experiment was conducted at Coconut Research Station, Aliyarnagar to standardize the suitable planting material on growth and development of black pepper in coconut garden based ecosystem during 2015 - 2018 as an intercrop. Experiment was laid out in randomized block design with seven treatments and each treatment was replicated thrice. Three different types of planting material of black pepper used were rooted cuttings of orthotropic shoots, runner shoots and plagiotropic shoots of the variety Panniyur 1. During 2015-16, T2 and T3 registered maximum plant height (254.0 cm) and number of leaves (87.8) respectively. Among the treat','Black pepper; planting material; orthotropic shoot; runner shoots; intercrop; coconut based ecosystem; plagiotropic shoots; Panniyur 1 pepper.','In the present study, among the seven treatments, rooted cuttings from runner shoot (2 plants/ tree), rooted cuttings from runner shoot (4 plants/ tree) and rooted cuttings from orthotropic shoot (2 plants/ tree) showed better performance for morphological and spike traits and this was due to effective utilization of interspaces in coconut gardens and available resources hence runner and orthotropic shoots can be better used as the planting material for plant propagation in black pepper in the coconut garden based ecosystem conditions. It also would help coconut gardens to offer excellent opportunities to exploit the inter-space potential for maximizing returns per unit area and increase the overall wellbeing of farmers and farming communities too. ','-','K. Venkatesan (2022). Standardising Planting Materials for Enhancing Growth and Yield Parameters of Black Pepper (Piper nigrum) under Coconut based Ecosystem. Biological Forum â€“ An International Journal, 14(1): 1341-1345.'),(3874,'112','Impact of Weather based Crop Insurance in Karnataka - An Economic Analysis','Shripad Vishweshwar, Srividyarani Sajjan and Mallu B. Deshetti','238 Impact of Weather based Crop Insurance in Karnataka - An Economic Analysis Shripad Vishweshwar.pdf','',1,'The study on impact of weather based crop insurance in Karnataka was carried out in North Karnataka because territory receives less rainfall compared to other portion of Karnataka. The districts selected for the study were Dharwad and Gadag of North Karnataka. Simple random method was followed to select the farmers from each district. Thus, 100 respondents were selected from both districts. For the study both primary and secondary data was used. The data were analysed using descriptive statistics and Compound annual growth rate, Relative importance Index, Coefficient of variation and Garrettâ€™s ranking technique. The number of ranchers benefited and claims over the time period indicated a positive and significant increase in growth rate at one per cent probability level. Majority of the ranchers in both districts are not aware of who is implementing agency and who pays recompense. In case of source of information, most important one was Grameen bank followed by Commercial and neigh','WBCIS, compound annual growth rate, relative importance index, constraints.','There is need to establish separate crop protection wing in Department of Agriculture to overcome the existing problems in the present scheme. More than 80 per cent of interviewees expressed that Department of Agriculture is not properly implementing the scheme. Further, the ranchers expressed that they donâ€™t know any procedure to apply and other information about crop protection. Hence, there is need to create awareness about weather based crop protection through effective use of RSK service, KVKs or appointing weather based crop protection agent like LIC agent to provide insurance service at the ranchers door step as suggested by majority of the ranchers. Most of the ranchers were studied upto primary education and donâ€™t understand the procedures and other requirements of formal financial institutions. While the institutional loanees are unknowingly insured under the WBCIS, about 50 per cent of the Non-loanee ranchers avail insurance voluntarily in Karnataka by creating awaren','-','Shripad Vishweshwar*, Srividyarani Sajjan and Mallu B. Deshetti (2022). Impact of Weather based Crop Insurance in Karnataka - An Economic Analysis. Biological Forum â€“ An International Journal, 14(1): 1346-1351.'),(3875,'112','Comparative Evaluation of Physico-Chemical and Nutritional Properties of Black Wheat','A.A. Joshi, R.B. Kshirsagar, B. M. Patil, S.K. Sadawarte and A.R. Sawate','239 Comparative Evaluation of Physico-Chemical and Nutritional Properties of Black Wheat A.A. Joshi.pdf','',1,'Black wheat is a colored wheat with high anthocyanin content with various health benefits as reported in previous literature. The present investigation focuses on nutritional exploration(moisture, protein, carbohydrates, fat, total ash, dietary fiber and energy value determination) and mineral composition(iron, zinc phosphorous, copper, potassium, selenium, magnesium and manganese) and physical quality (grain dimensions, size, volume of seed, arithmetic diameter, geometric diameter, flat surface area, transverse area, sphericity, 1000 kernel weight, bulk density, true density, fractional porosity and angle of repose) evaluation of Black wheat in comparison with normal Netravati wheat for value addition with better health benefits as a nutraceuticals in health foods and found that the Black wheat grains had lower values of most of physical properties except length and percent porosity as compared to local wheat variety Netravati. On the other had the Black wheat was rich in protein (1','wheat, physical characteristics, chemical composition, minerals.','The physical properties of raw materials provide information on both their technological suitability and optimum treatment in the production process. From this investigation it can be concluded that the Black wheat grain flour with protein 14.49%, carbohydrate 67.23% and dietary fiber 5.11% with theoretical energy value (339.66kcal/100g) and higher concentrations of all the minerals Zinc, copper, iron, manganese, Selenium, magnesium, potassium, and phosphorus as (3.96, 4.03, 15.23, 3.74, 0.082, 250, 417.5 and 470mg/100g) was proved to be more superior in all respects as compared to experimental control Netravati wheat. Zinc deficiency is a worldwide problem and Black wheat variety with rich in Zn is a new approach in food processing. Black wheat is much healthier as it increases the nutrition quotient of products when compared to white wheat that open a new avenues for the wheat growers and processers to explore the Black Wheat for its value addition. Black wheat since rich in protein','-','A.A. Joshi, R.B. Kshirsagar, B. M. Patil, S.K. Sadawarte and A.R. Sawate (2022). Comparative Evaluation of Physico-Chemical and Nutritional Properties of Black Wheat. Biological Forum â€“ An International Journal, 14(1): 1352-1357.'),(3876,'112','Trend Analysis of Area and Production of Vegetables under Open and Protected Cultivation in Haryana','Vikash and Satyveer Singh Meena','240 Trend Analysis of Area and Production of Vegetables under Open and Protected Cultivation in Haryana Vikash.pdf','',1,'Protected cultivation is one of the most used methods for diversification of agriculture and to increase the farm income. From this study trend analysis was performed to show the trends of area and production of vegetables under open and protected cultivation. This paper is based on secondary data (time series data of vegetables from 1990-91 to 2020-21 in open field condition and from 2015-16 to 2018-19 in protected cultivation) was taken for trend analysis. Linear trend analysis model was used to analyse the time series data of area and production of vegetables under protected cultivation in Haryana. The major challenges of the study is the availability of a small data set of area and production of vegetables under protected cultivation (2015-16 to 2018-19) due to which linear trend analysis was not well defined. In the current context, trend analysis of area and production of vegetables in open field cultivation shows that the cultivation area has increased by 713.6% between 1990-91 ','Protected cultivation, environmental factors, seedlings, vegetable crops, trend analysis.','It is concluded from the study that farmers can add-up to their earnings through protected cultivation of vegetables. Protected cultivation is one of the most used methods for diversification of agriculture and to increase the farm income. Production of crops under protected conditions has great potential to augment produce and quality of vegetables in main and off seasons through maximization of water and nutrient use efficiency, under varied agro- climatic environments of India. Trend analysis of area and production of vegetables in open field cultivation shows that the cultivation area has increased by 713.6% between 1990-91 and 2020-21 while production has increased by 1027.8% during the same duration. Similarly trend analysis of area and production of vegetables under protected cultivation reflects that area is increasing by 53.84% between 2015-16 and 2017-18 but the area has decreased by 9.38% from 2017-18 to 2018-19.\r\nThe production has increased by 70.53% between 2015-16 and 20','-','Vikash and Satyveer Singh Meena (2022). Trend Analysis of Area and Production of Vegetables under Open and Protected Cultivation in Haryana. Biological Forum â€“ An International Journal, 14(1): 1358-1364.'),(3877,'112','Genotype Ã— Environment Interaction and Variability for Grains per Spike and Spike Length in Wheat (Triticum aestivum L.) genotypes under Temperate conditions','Shabir H. Wani, Mehdi Rahimi, Hanif Khan, Basharat ul Islam, N.R. Sofi, Asif B. Shikari, Ashaq Hussain, F. A. Mohiddin, M. Ashraf Ahanger, I.A. Jehangir, G.H. Khan, Zahoor A. Dar, Aabid H. Lone, J. A. Lone, M. S. Dar and Saba Mir','241 Genotype Ã— Environment Interaction and Variability for Grains per Spike and Spike Length in Wheat _Triticum aestivum L._ genotypes under Temperate conditions Shabir H. Wani.pdf','',1,'Variability of grains per spike and spike length are one of the important contributors of grain yield in wheat. Also, the experiments measuring the interaction between genotypes and environments measure the spatial (e.g., locations) and temporal (e.g., years) separation and/or combination of these factors. The genotype-by-environment interaction (GEI) is very important in plant breeding programs. It is necessary for researchers that calculate stability indices, and ultimately select the superior genotypes, to dissect their usefulness. The aim of this study was to estimate variability of grains per spike and spike length in 32 genetically divergent wheat accessions and two wheat cultivars evaluated during 2019 and 2020 wheat growing season. The experiment was set up as a randomized block design in three replications. Obtained results indicated differences in average values of grains per spike and spike length among tested lines and cultivars. The results of combined analysis of variance','wheat; variability; grains per spike; spike length.','In this research the variations had been decided amongst wheat genotypes in step with values of grains per spike and spike length. The maximum values of grains per spike and spike length had observed in entries 33, 11, 16 and 18. Increasing of wheat grain yield is viable through enhancing all morphological, physiological tendencies of spike as a significant wheat yield contributing trait. Since increase in these traits contributes in increased yield in wheat and the fact that the interactions of genotype with the environment were not significant, so these four accessions can be used in breeding programs to increase wheat yield.','Adil, N., Wani, S. H., Rafiqee, S., Mehrajuddin, S., Sofi, N. R., Shikari, A. B., Rahimi, M. (2022). Deciphering GenotypeÃ— Environment Interaction by AMMI and GGE Biplot Analysis Among Elite Wheat (Triticum aestivum L.) Genotypes of Himalayan Region. Ekin Journal of Crop Breeding and Genetics, 8(1), 41-52.\r\nAkÃ§ura, M. (2009). Genetic variability and interrelationship among grain yield and some quality traits in Turkish winter durum wheat landraces. Turkish Journal of Agriculture and Forestry, 33(6), 547-556. \r\nAkram, Z., Ajmal, S. U., & Munir, M. (2008). Estimation of correlation coefficient among some yield parameters of wheat under rainfed conditions. Pakistan Journal of Botany, 40(4), 1777-1781. \r\nBalfourier, F., Bouchet, S., Robert, S., De Oliveira, R., Rimbert, H., Kitt, J., Paux, E. (2019). Worldwide phylogeography and history of wheat genetic diversity. Science advances, 5(5), Article number, eaav0536.\r\nDabiry, S., Esmaeili, M. A., Haghparast, R., & Ghajarsepanlo, M. (2015). G','Shabir H. Wani*, Mehdi Rahimi, Hanif Khan, Basharat ul Islam, N.R. Sofi, Asif B. Shikari, Ashaq Hussain, F. A. Mohiddin, M. Ashraf Ahanger, I.A. Jehangir, G.H. Khan, Zahoor A. Dar, Abid H. Lone, J. A. Lone, M. S. Dar and Saba Mir (2022). Genotype Ã— Envi'),(3878,'112','Effect of Tillage Practices, Sulphur and Boron Application on Growth, Yield and Economics of Mustard','Shashank Tyagi*, Vinod Kumar, Sushant and M.K. Singh','242 Effect of Tillage Practices, Sulphur and Boron Application on Growth, Yield and Economics of Mustard Shashank Tyagi.pdf','',1,'Productive profitability of mustard is constrained mainly due to intensive use of nutrients and inappropriate moisture conservation strategies in soil layers. Keeping the issues in view, a field experiment was conducted during rabi season 2016-17 and 2017-18 at research farm of Bihar Agricultural College, Sabour, Bhagalpur to assess the response of mustard to tillage, S and B doses. It consisted of main plot having three tillage practices viz., conventional tillage, zero tillage and reduced tillage, while sub plots having three S doses i.e., 0, 20 and 40 kg ha-1 and three B doses i.e., 0, 1.0 and 2.0 kg ha-1 in sub sub plots laid out in split split plot design replicated thrice. Results indicated that siliqua length, 1000-seed weight and seeds siliqua-1 were maximum in conventional tillage. Tillage practices did not cause significant variation in 1000-grain weight. These attributes increased with increasing doses up to 40 kg S ha-1 and 1.0 kg B ha-1. S doses caused non significant vari','Boron, Economics, Mustard, Sulphur, Tillage, Yield, Zero tillage.','Hence it might be concluded that use of 20 kg S ha-1 and 1.0 kg B ha-1 under conventional tillage recorded highest seed yield and benefit: cost ratio of mustard besides significant improvement in growth and yield attributes in context to S and B nutrition at various tillage practices. ','-','Shashank Tyagi*, Vinod Kumar, Sushant and M.K. Singh (2022). Effect of Tillage Practices, Sulphur and Boron Application on Growth, Yield and Economics of Mustard. Biological Forum â€“ An International Journal, 14(1): 1370-1375.'),(3879,'112','Combined and Multifunctional Implements: A Promising Approach for Modern Farm Mechanization','Joe Joe L. Bovas*, Udhayakumar R., P. Shaji James, Arjunan Muthiah, Dipak S. Khatawkar and Aravind James','243 Combined and Multifunctional Implements A Promising Approach for Modern Farm Mechanization Joe Joe L. Bovas.pdf','',1,'The growing population and reducing land available for agriculture is insisting mechanised agriculture to meet the food demand. The higher energy requirements of modern agricultural implements and the increasing cost of energy is making farmers look for implements/machines that have lower energy demand to reduce the overall cost of production. Thus, implements/machines which combine consecutive field operations (called as combined implements) are gaining attention as they can save time, energy and reduce soil compaction as a result of lesser number of field operations. As the total emissions are also reduced, the combined implements are also environment friendly. In addition, combining active and passive tools have a favourable impact on reducing draft and energy required by the total system. Further, implements/machines having provisions to combine consecutive field operations and carry out other major field operations are called as multifunctional implements (MFIâ€™s). MFIâ€™s were f','Agricultural mechanisation, Combined tillage implements, Active-active tool combination, Active-passive tool combination, Negative draft, Multifunctional implements.','Itâ€™s true that the demand for agricultural produce never ends, but the price is highly fluctuating and in most of the cases the producer gets lower price. This is due to the fact that crops are seasonal and huge volumes of produce come into the market, resulting in market price reduction. Itâ€™s a challenging task to increase the production at the same time get better returns to the producer. So as to sustain the agricultural sector, the most effective way is to reduce the cost involved in production. Mechanisation played a very effective role in achieving this target to a great extent. As competition is increasing and land area available for cultivation decreasing and the investing capacity of the farmer is reducing, purchasing, operating and maintaining specialised machinery is becoming uneconomical for small and medium scale farmers. At the same time, they consume a lot of valuable time in carrying out field operations one after another.\r\nHere the importance of combining possible ','-','Joe Joe L. Bovas, Udhayakumar R., P. Shaji James, Arjunan Muthiah, Dipak S. Khatawkar and Aravind James (2022). Combined and Multifunctional Implements, A Promising Approach for Modern Farm Mechanization. Biological Forum â€“ An International Journal, 14('),(3880,'112','Morphological Responses of Pea (Pisum sativum L. Var. Kashi Nandni) to Exogenous Application of Salicylic Acid under Water Deficit Stress condition','Pallavi Soni*, Reena Nair, Surabhi Jain and R.K. Sahu','244 Morphological Responses of Pea _Pisum sativum L. Var. Kashi Nandni_ to Exogenous Application of Salicylic Acid under Water Deficit Stress condition Pallavi Soni.pdf','',1,'Sustainable agriculture is greatly threatened by the abiotic stress such as drought. The experiment was conducted with a split plot arrangement and replicated thrice. Water stress condition signifies irrigated and water deficit stress conditions. Water stress conditions were assigned to main plots and five doses of SA (0, 0.25, 0.50, 0.75 and 1 mM) were designed to sub plots. Results state that the foliar application of SA (especially 0.5 mM) was effectively improved all morphological parameters under both irrigated and water deficit stress conditions except Leaf area index in which superior result was obtained with 0.75 mM SA. Analysis of variance showed that the effect of salicylic acid on all characteristic was significant except on no. of leaves. Interaction effect was also found significant in the case of total dry weight and LAI. Water deficit stress is one of the crucial factors which create challenges to plant growth and development by altering in its physiological pathways. S','Salicylic acid, Pea, Water deficit Stress, Morphological, Growth analytical ','Drought stress causes severe physiological and biochemical malfunctions in plants, which leads to a drastic reduction in plant performance. Environmental stress, such as water stress, adversely influences the morphological along with growth analytical parameters of pea. Plants alone would not be able to alleviate the negative consequences of water stress in this circumstance therefore; there is a need of exogenous support to pea plant to cope drought stress which is facilitated by the application of SA to carry out various processes which enhance the physiological and biochemical phenomenon of plant body. Salicylic acid is a phytohormone that helps plants copes with abiotic and biotic stresses. Recent study state that water deficit stress reduced plant height, no. of branches, leaf fresh weight, leaf dry weight and leaf area index of pea. SA application improved all measured traits not only under irrigated but also under water deficit stressed plants. The effect of 0.50 mM SA was more ','-','Pallavi Soni, Reena Nair, Surabhi Jain and R.K. Sahu (2022). Morphological Responses of Pea (Pisum sativum L. Var. Kashi Nandni) to Exogenous Application of Salicylic Acid under Water Deficit Stress condition. Biological Forum â€“ An International Journa'),(3881,'112','Characterization of Twenty One Isolates of Beauveria bassiana and Study their Bio-efficacy against Nodostoma subcostatum','B. Temjenmenla, K.C. Puzari, A. Bhattacharyya, P.D. Nath and Pranab Dutta*','245 Characterization of Twenty One Isolates of Beauveria bassiana and Study their Bio-efficacy against Nodostoma subcostatum Pranab Dutta.pdf','',1,'Considering the negative effects of chemical pesticides have led to emphasis on use of biological control of scarring beetle. B. bassiana, the white muscardine fungus was reported to be effective against banana beetle (N. subcostatum) in Assam, India. Information on the potentialities of B. bassiana for the management of N. subcostatum is scanty. Twenty one (21) isolates of B. bassiana were made banana leaf and fruit scarring beetle during the survey conducted in four North East States viz., Assam, Arunachal, Mizoram and Nagaland and all the isolates were characterized. Out of the different tested concentrations of B. bassiana evaluated in laboratory against N. subcostatum, concentration of 1 Ã— 107conidia/ml of water was found effective with highest mortality of 89.17 per cent at 20 days post inoculation. All the 21 isolates of B. bassiana tested at 1 Ã— 107 conidial concentration was found to be best with highest pathogenic to adult leaf and fruit scarring beetle causing mortalitie','Beuveria bassiana, Nodostoma subcostatum, isolate, phylogenetic, genetic variability.','The present study showed that isolates of B. bassiana are highly pathogenic to N. subcostatum and studies on molecular characterization of the isolates proved the variability at genetic level among the isolates of B. bassiana of North East States. These isolates can be use as a potential bioagent for the management of the pest in organic cultivation of banana, thereby it will reduce the use of chemical pesticides and save the environment.','-','B. Temjenmenla, K.C. Puzari, A. Bhattacharyya, P.D. Nath and Pranab Dutta (2022). Characterization of Twenty One Isolates of Beauveria bassiana and Study their Bio-efficacy Against Nodostoma subcostatum. Biological Forum â€“ An International Journal, 1'),(3882,'112','Bio based Natural Resources and their Efficacy on Production of non-GM Organic Cotton in Nimar Valley of Madhya Pradesh','D.K. Shrivastava and Y.K. Shukla','246 Bio based Natural Resources and their Efficacy on Production of non-GM Organic Cotton in Nimar Valley of Madhya Pradesh D.K. Shrivastava.pdf','',1,'The cost of cultivation of cotton is increasing day by day, the major part of cost of cultivation is covered under cost of fertilizers, hence if some way, the dose of fertilizers was reduced maintaining the stability in yield, the cost may be reduced automatically. The study aimed to estimate the efficacy of different combinations of Vermicompost, Phosphate Rich Organic Manure (PROM), Biofertilizers and identification of the efficient doses of vermicompost, PROM and biofertilizers for higher seed cotton yield to reduce cost of production in organic cultivation. \r\nThe study was conducted with nine treatments of different combinations of Vermicompost, PROM and Biofertilizers on cotton variety JK4 in a replicated trial at AICRP on Cotton, Farm B. M. College of Agriculture, Khandwa, Madhya Pradesh during 2019-20. The recommended dose of fertilizers (80: 60: 40 kg ha-1 of nitrogen, phosphorus and potash) were applied in 100, 50, 40 and 30% quantity through Vermicompost and Phosphate Rich Or','Cost of production, estimation of efficiency, recommended dose of fertilizer','The study suggested that 50% RDF through vermicompost and PROM assisted with Seed treatment with PSB and Azotobacter and one drenching of PSB and Azotobacter are most economical in a view to reduce the cost of cultivation of cotton crop with increase in Seed cotton yield and net return (Rs. 0.38 lakh/ha) with the highest B: C ratio (1.82) rather than applying only 100% RDF through vermicompost and PROM. The increase activity of N fixing bacteria (Azotobacter) and phosphate solubilizing bacteria improve the availability of N, P and K in soil.','-','D.K. Shrivastava and Y.K. Shukla (2022). Bio based Natural Resources and their Efficacy on Production of non-GM Organic Cotton in Nimar Valley of Madhya Pradesh. Biological Forum â€“ An International Journal, 14(1): 1402-1406.'),(3883,'112','Chemically Detected Adulteration in Spices and Condiments','Reena Solanki*, Kiran Singh and Manju Mehta','247 Chemically Detected Adulteration in Spices and Condiments Reena Solanki.pdf','',1,'Indian food is incomplete without the addition of spices and condiments. To get more profit few selfish manufacturers and sellers are into practice of adulteration in food products. A common consumer may not have sufficient knowledge about purity and quality of food articles which he consumes. To ensure the safety of food, it is very important that various food materials purchased by consumers should be free from adulteration. Therefore, the present study is carried out with the objective of identifying the presence of common adulterants found in spices and condiments like chilli powder, coriander powder, turmeric powder, black pepper and salt. The present study was undertaken in Hisar district to test the adulteration in spices and condiments and 30 different samples of spices and condiments have taken from each rural and urban area of Hansi city. Qualitative analyses were carried out on total 60 different samples of spices and condiments. The results revealed that the maximum adulter','Adulterant, Colour, Food , Health, Spices and Condiments, Quality, Test.','It can be concluded from research results and discussions lastly that the adulteration is considered as a big major problem of todayâ€™s life and makes the food items unsafe and unhygienic which we use in our daily life for use. Though we all know â€œhealth is wealth,â€ and different manufacturers, producers and sellers with an economically motivated mentality do not even leave food by making food adulterated. And for the common consumer, adulterated and contaminated food becomes a part of daily life because adulteration is everywhere. Adulteration can be prevented by few alerting steps of our society. Consumers gave more importance to expiry date while purchasing/ buying packaged but when purchasing open spices and condiments then to make ensure that such spices and condiments are of good quality and safe which donâ€™t cause any health problems. When toxic contaminants are present in very low level then it is impossible to detect adulterants in any food items. But before purchase, vi','-','Reena Solanki, Kiran Singh and Manju Mehta (2022). Chemically Detected Adulteration in Spices and Condiments. Biological Forum â€“ An International Journal, 14(1): 1407-1411.'),(3884,'114','Ethnomedicinal Potential of Salvia moorcroftiana Wall. ex Benth (Kallijari): a Threatened Medicinal plant of Himalayas: A Comprehensive review','Dinesh Kumar Sharma* and Ekta Bhardwaj','2 Ethnomedicinal Potential of Salvia moorcroftiana Wall. ex Benth _Kallijari_ a Threatened Medicinal plant of Himalayas A Comprehensive review Dinesh Kumar Sharma.pdf','',1,'Salvia moorcroftiana Wall. ex Benth. Commonly known as â€œKallijariâ€ is one of the important salvia species of Himalayas. It belongs to the family Lamiaceae. Plants of this species are common in temperate zone of the Himalayas occurring at altitudes between 5000-9000 feet. Traditionally the leaves of Salvia moorcroftiana are used against itching, guinea worm infection and in the form of poultice to wounds while the seeds and roots are used in colic, cough, haemorrhoids, dysentery and boils. Salvia moorcroftiana is rich in flavonoid Salvia moorcroftiana Wall. ex Benth. The plant has antibacterial, antifungal, analgesic, antipyretic, anti-inflammatory and anticancer properties. Salvia moorcroftiana is one of the endangered medicinal plants of Himalayas. It has been put under critically endangered species, requiring high priority conservation. In this review we have tried to summarise all the phytochemical, pharmacological and toxicological properties of Salvia moorcroftiana.','Salvia moorcroftiana, Antibacterial, Antifungal, Analgesic, Antipyretic, Anticancer.','Salvia moorcroftiana is an important species of genus salvus. Salvia moorcroftiana has been put under threatened plant list of IUCN. In our review we found that a very little work has been done to pharmacologically validate its traditional uses. Indiscriminate exploitation has put this plant under threat. There is dire need to pharmacologically validate the properties of this plant and to save this plant from extinction which is possible only by preventing its exploitation and by using modern techniques like cryopreservation of gene banks. ','-','Dinesh Kumar Sharma* and Ekta Bhardwaj (2022). Ethnomedicinal Potential of Salvia moorcroftiana Wall. ex Benth (Kallijari): a Threatened Medicinal plant of Himalayas: A Comprehensive review. International Journal of Theoretical & Applied Sciences, 14(1): '),(3885,'112','Screening of Cumin (Cuminum cyminum L.) Germplasm to Blight and Wilt Diseases caused by Alternaria burnsii and Fusarium oxysporium f. sp. Cumini','G.L. Kumawat* , A.C. Shivran, Ram Kunwar, S.S. Punia and Jitendra Singh','248 Screening of Cumin _Cuminum cyminum L._ Germplasm to Blight and Wilt Diseases caused by Alternaria burnsii and Fusarium oxysporium f. sp. Cumini G.L. Kumawat.pdf','',1,'Cumin is one of the most valuable crop specially for the arid region farmers. Cumin seeds have a typical pleasant aroma due to an aromatic alcohol, amino and spicy taste. It is largely used as condiment and an essential ingredient in all mixed spices and carries powers. Cumin faced many challenges in production is affected by diseases which are responsible for heavy yield losses. Among this blight caused by Alternaria burnsii and powdery mildew incited by Erysiphe polygoni are important and serious diseases observed to be cause significant losses in grain quantity as well as quality. Continuous efforts were made from time to time to screen and select resistant genotypes of cumin against the blight and wilt diseases. Since host plant, resistance is an effective, economic and environmentally safe component in an integrated approach to keep plant diseases below the threshold level. Seventy eight (78) cumin germplasm/lines were screened for their resistance to blight and wilt diseases in n','Cumin, disease, blight, wilt, resistance, germplasm.','Twenty one (21) germplasm/lines found moderately resistance against wilt disease and nineteen (19) germplasm/lines found moderately resistance against blight disease and rest of the germplasm/lines showed susceptible and highly susceptible reactions against the wilt and blight diseases under present investigation.','-','G.L. Kumawat, A.C. Shivran, Ram Kunwar, S.S. Punia and Jitendra Singh (2022). Screening of Cumin (Cuminum cyminum L.) Germplasm to Blight and Wilt Diseases caused by Alternaria burnsii and Fusarium oxysporium f. sp. Cumini. Biological Forum â€“ An Intern'),(3886,'113','Supervised Bernoulli Text Topic Identification Model using NaÃ¯ve Bayes','Suresh Kumar Sharma, Kanchan Jain* and Gurpreet Singh Bawa','3 Supervised Bernoulli Text Topic Identification Model using NaÃ¯ve Bayes Kanchan Jain.pdf','',1,'In this paper, the concept of document models is conversed with respect to the Bernoulli document approach, that is on basis of the presence or absence of primary blocks of the documents, namely tokens. The research primarily deals with how an unstructured dataset consisting of text documents is converted to structured content with mathematical and statistical foundation and then topic of conversation is predicted (or estimated) based on Bernoulli assumptions. The application of NaÃ¯ve Bayes approach is discussed for the model under consideration. Examples and sample code snippets in R and Python to execute the same have been included for Bernoulli document model. ','Text classification, NaÃ¯ve Bayes, Topic Modelling, Bernoulli Distribution','In this research, it is seen how categorization of unlabeled documents can be done using underlying Bernoulli distribution for words, based on the posterior probabilities obtained from the pre-labeled training dataset. This approach, which is lexical in nature, deals with the features obtained from the labeled training dataset only and focuses on just the presence/absence of words across the documents. Thus, in this way, the supervised approach classifies the unlabeled documents to either of the categories under study.','-','Suresh Kumar Sharma, Kanchan Jain and Gurpreet Singh Bawa (2022). Supervised Bernoulli Text Topic Identification Model using NaÃ¯ve Bayes. International Journal on Emerging Technologies, 13(1): 15â€“21.'),(3887,'112','Study the Drying Behavior of Green Wood Turning on Ecalyptus spp','Ezhumalai R. and Shikhar Shukla','249 Study the Drying Behavior of Green Wood Turning on Ecalyptus spp Ezhumalai R.pdf','',1,'Wood seasoning is a well established technology to dry timber in a controlled atmosphere. The biggest challenge that it faces is the drying time, which paves ways to explore more towards reducing seasoning time. Some of the faster drying processes include radio frequency (RF) drying and vacuum drying but economically they are bit expensive. So innovative method of seasoning that involves least energy, less skill on the part of the laborers involved, quicker drying, comprehensibility, and easy workability is the need of the hour. Considering all above factors, this research work is on the method of converting the green wood into the turned products directly and then drying them. The output of adopting this methodology was that the turned samples of Eucalyptus wood were dried to 12-14% moisture content within 14 days in electric heated kiln which otherwise took more than 18 days to achieve this moisture content in unturned condition. More over working with green wood is easier and faster','Green wood Turning, Drying Rate, pre-surfaced wood, Ecalyptus spp.','As it is already mentioned in the introduction, the wood industries throughout the country are finding it increasingly difficult to meet the needs of the people for various wood products. The absence of proper technology of wood seasoning to produce seasoned wood within the time period is another disadvantage to the wood Industry. On the other hand, we have faster drying process by use of RF and vacuum drying but it is costly. So, the new method of seasoning that involves least energy, less skill on the part of the laborers involved, quicker drying, comprehensibility, and workability is the need of the hour. Considering these, we have focused our research work on the method of converting the green wood into the turned products directly and then drying them. \r\nThe result shows that the drying rate is 1.7 times more in case of green turned sample than the green unturned samples. There is no difference in drying rate upto 48% MC (Fig. 2) beyond that there is remarkable change in drying ra','-','Ezhumalai R. and Shikhar Shukla (2022). Study the Drying Behavior of green wood turning on Ecalyptus spp. Biological Forum â€“ An International Journal, 14(1): 1416-1423.'),(3888,'112','Biochemical Validation of Rice Blast Incidence Reduction due to Trichoderma Application','Biswajit Jena*, A.K. Senapati, Lipilipsa Priyadarshinee and Sandhyarani Nanda','250 Biochemical Validation of Rice Blast Incidence Reduction due to Trichoderma Application Biswajit Jena.pdf','',1,'Rice crop is extremely sensitive to attack by different pathogens at all phases of development, affecting both quality and quantity of its yields, which results in lower productivity. Among the different diseases, blast disease is considered the principal fungal disease of rice and is the major threat to rice production due to its cosmopolite presence. Rice plants are also impacted by abiotic stresses such as drought, salinity, submergence, and so on, of which, drought plays a significant role in reducing yield as well as growth and development of the plant. Bio-control agents, such like Trichoderma spp. are hailed as effective, eco-friendly, and cheap sources of stress beaters. Drought aversion using morphological adaptations, drought tolerance through physiological and biochemical adaptations, and accelerated drought recovery are all claimed to be mechanisms used by Trichoderma spp., a well-known beneficial fungus. Hence it was planned to mitigate blast and drought simultaneously us','Trichoderma harzianum, drought, Biochemical characters, proline, ROS (Reactive Oxygen Species), SOD (Superoxide dismutase), MDA (Malondialdehyade), lignin, APX (Ascorbate peroxidase).','In the present investigation, it was employed to mitigate the biotic stress due to blast and abiotic stress such as drought. Separate studies have shown that they help to reduce disease and drought stress. It was concluded that Trichoderma harzianum has numerous advantages in the plant and its effects on disease incidence, drought \r\nstress, and yield was linked with morphological and biochemical features, substantiating the findings. The utilization of several isolates and records of differences among them in providing advantages is a novel idea that should be studied further.\r\n','-','Biswajit Jena, A.K. Senapati, Lipilipsa Priyadarshinee and Sandhyarani Nanda (2022). Biochemical Validation of Rice Blast Incidence Reduction due to Trichoderma Application. Biological Forum â€“ An International Journal, 14(1): 1424-1431.'),(3889,'112','Cropping System Diversification for various Integrated Farming System Models in Telangana','Ch. Pragathi Kumari*, M Venkata Ramana, M. Goverdhan, G. Kiran Reddy, G. Vinay, M. Santhosh Kumar5 and R. Karthik','251 Cropping System Diversification for various Integrated Farming System Models in Telangana CH. Pragathi Kumari.pdf','',1,'There is a need to develop location specific cropping systems as they are one of the best possible solutions to existing farming constraints. Diversified cropping systems provide stable and better income to farmers and helps in maintaining the sustainability. In this context, experimentation on determining system productivity and economics of diverse cropping systems for various farming systems under irrigated conditions in light textured soils of Southern Telangana Zone (STZ) was carried out at college farm, PJTSAU, Rajendranagar, Hyderabad, Telangana. Ten cropping systems were divided into five subsets in a Randomized Block Design (RBD) and replicated thrice. Sweet corn â€“ vegetable (tomato) system was more profitable with highest B:C ratio (3.35) followed by okra â€“marigold - beetroot (2.66) among the all cropping systems. Bt cotton + greengram (1:3) â€“ groundnut cropping system has obtained higher rice grain equivalent yield (15252 kg ha-1) and net returns (Rs. 186368 ha-1) over','Farming systems, Nutritional security, Telangana. ','Global agriculture is impacted by climate change, urbanization, soaring population & demand. Crop diversification, more efficient water use, improved soil management practices, together with the development of suitable crops can help reduce some of the negative impacts. There is a need to develop cropping systems which are remunerative and will be suitable to local areas. Okra â€“ marigold â€“ beetroot system was more profitable followed by sweet corn - tomato system under commercial crops. Bt cotton + greengram (1:3) â€“ groundnut, pigeonpea + maize (1:3) - groundnut, fodder maize â€“ lucerne and rice â€“ maize systems were found most remunerative in their respective subsets and could be well recommended for different farming systems under irrigated dry situation of Southern Telangana Zone.','-','Ch. Pragathi Kumari, M Venkata Ramana, M. Goverdhan, G. Kiran Reddy, G. Vinay, M. Santhosh Kumar and R. Karthik (2022). Cropping System Diversification for various Integrated Farming System Models in Telangana. Biological Forum â€“ An International Journa'),(3890,'112','Histopathological Effect of Endosulfan on the Kidney of Clarias gariepinus (Burchell, 1822) (Siluriformes: Clariidae)','P. Verma*, S. Kurikose and D.B. Sawarkar','252 Histopathological Effect of Endosulfan on the Kidney of Clarias gariepinus Burchell, 1822 Siluriformes Clariidae P. Verma 2218.pdf','',1,'Pesticides are transported into aquatic ecosystems, where they enter organisms via food webs and water contact. Endosulfan is a neurotoxic organochlorine insecticide that is used to control insect pests. In the aquatic environment, organochlorides are the most common toxicant. This insecticide is particularly hazardous to fish, and its use causes disruption of the aquatic food chain. Histopathological examination of fish tissue allows for the detection of long-term damage in cells, tissues, and organs, as well as early warning signals of disease. The kidney of aquatic animals is one of the most common organ to be affected by pollutants in the water \r\nEndosulfan exposure at different sub-lethal concentrations (0.215, 0.43, 0.86Âµg/l) for different time intervals (5,10,15 days) resulted in profound histopathological changes in the liver, such as necrosis, vacuolization, damaged hematopoietic tissue, constriction and aggregation of renal cells, and aggregation of hematopoietic tissue. ','Endosulfan, Histopathology, Insecticide, Kidney, Organochlorides.','Pesticides are transported into aquatic ecosystems, where they enter organisms via food webs and water contact. Endosulfan is a neurotoxic organochlorine insecticide that is used to control insect pests. In the aquatic environment, organochlorides are the most common toxicant. This insecticide is particularly hazardous to fish, and its use causes disruption of the aquatic food chain. Histopathological examination of fish tissue allows for the detection of long-term damage in cells, tissues, and organs, as well as early warning signals of disease. The kidney of aquatic animals is one of the most common organ to be affected by pollutants in the water \r\nEndosulfan exposure at different sub-lethal concentrations (0.215, 0.43, 0.86Âµg/l) for different time intervals (5,10,15 days) resulted in profound histopathological changes in the liver, such as necrosis, vacuolization, damaged hematopoietic tissue, constriction and aggregation of renal cells, and aggregation of hematopoietic tissue. ','-','P. Verma, S. Kurikose and D.B. Sawarkar (2022). Histopathological Effect of Endosulfan on the Kidney of Clarias gariepinus (Burchell, 1822) (Siluriformes: Clariidae). Biological Forum â€“ An International Journal, 14(1): 1439-1443.'),(3891,'112','Study of Genetic Variability Parameters in F3 Generation of Interspecific Hybrids in Cowpea [Vigna spp.]','Sudhamani Kalluru*, S.S. Desai,V. V. Dalvi, A. V. Mane and U.B. Pethe','253 Study of Genetic Variability Parameters in F3 Generation of Interspecific Hybrids in Cowpea [Vigna spp.] Sudhamani Kalluru.pdf','',1,'A cross has been made between grain-type cowpea (Vigna unguiculata ssp. unguiculata) and yard long bean (Vigna unguiculata ssp. sesquipedalis) and the obtained fifteen families each having three progenies along with two check varieties were subjected to variability studies. Analysis of variance revealed significant variation between families and within the progeny for all the twelve characters, justifying the selection of genotypes for the study. Plant height showed a higher estimate of phenotypic and genotypic variance. The phenotypic coefficient of variation (PCV) was higher in magnitude over the respective genotypic coefficient of variation (GCV) for all the characters under study. The estimates of PCV and GCV were high for plant height, pod length, number of pods per plant and hundred seed weight. High heritability coupled with genetic advance as percent of mean (GAM) was observed for characters plant height, pod length, number of pods per plant, hundred seed weight, seed yield per','Cowpea, Inter-specific Hybrids, Families, GAM, Heritability, PCV, GCV Progenies.','It is concluded that a wide range of variability exists among the families and within the progeny of the same family for all the characters under study. PCV was higher in magnitude over respective GCV. High heritability with high genetic advance as percentage of mean was observed for plant height, pod length, number of pods per plant, hundred seed weight, seed yield per plant, number of clusters per plant, number of branches per plant, number of seeds per pod and number of pods per cluster. Seed yield per plant showed positive and high significant correlation with harvest index, number of pods per plant, number of branches per plant, number of pods per cluster, hundred seed weight, pod length, number of clusters per plant and number of seeds per pod at both genotypic and phenotypic level. These characters should be used as selection criteria for genetic improvement of seed yield per plant in the cowpea population under study.','-','Sudhamani Kalluru, S.S. Desai,V. V. Dalvi, A. V. Mane and U.B. Pethe (2022). Study of Genetic Variability Parameters in F3 Generation of Interspecific Hybrids in Cowpea [Vigna spp.]. Biological Forum â€“ An International Journal, 14(1): 1444-1450.'),(3892,'112','Housing Practices Adopted by Sheep Farmers in Kanchipuram District of Tamilnadu','S. Usha*, M. Suganthi and A. Yasotha','254 Housing Practices Adopted by Sheep Farmers in Kanchipuram District of Tamilnadu S. Usha.pdf','',1,'The study was carried out in the Beneficiary flocks of Network Project on Sheep Improvement (NWPSI) is functioning at Postgraduate Research Institute in Animal Sciences, Kattupakkam, Kanchipuram district of Tamil Nadu. The flocks of NWPSI, from 29 villages were selected a multistage stratified random sampling technique was employed to collect information from 150 sheep farmers from the study area. Majority of sheep shepherds 75% provided shelter for sheep nearer to their residence and (80%) were rearing goat along with sheep. They were followed (98%) in extensive system of management and 50% flocks had 26-50 animals. The sheep farmers provided (50%) of closed with run space shelter and most of the sheep sheds (90%) were mud floor. Half of the sheds were (52%) made with thatched roofing material with gable roof type (72%). The lambs mostly reared along ewes (80%) and no special house made for lambs (81%). The cleaning of sheds practiced (55 %) twice daily. About 52 and 55 per cent of t','Madras Red sheep, housing management, farmers, Kanchipuram. ','The present study revealed that the sheep farmers have poor level of knowledge about housing and intensity of importance of sheep housing. It was based more on traditional knowledge and experience rather than with modern scientific housing with minimal requirements. Factors like type of housing and roofing material were showing overall better performance of sheep. Creation of awareness in sheep farmers to pursue improved scientific management practices for better housing by periodical training and conducting demonstration are essential to improve the productivity of this region. Providing inputs such as short-term loans to shepherd, efficient use of whatever available resources and scientific management will improve the living standard of sheep farmer. It is observed that lack of fodder for grazing was considered to be a highlighting constraint which could be overcome by supply of fodder at subsidized rate to the farmers and improved common pasture land for grazing through rural Govern','-','S. Usha, M. Suganthi and A. Yasotha (2022). Housing Practices Adopted by Sheep Farmers in Kanchipuram District of Tamilnadu. Biological Forum â€“ An International Journal, 14(1): 1451-1455'),(3893,'102','Heterosis Studies for Yield and Quality Traits in Garden Peas (Pisum sativum L.)','Manoj Kumar, R.K. Samnotra and Sanjeev Kumar*','119 Heterosis Studies for Yield and Quality Traits in Garden Peas Pisum sativum L. Dr. Sanjeev Kumar.pdf','',1,'Hybridization is challenging in pea crop due its flower structure. Present study was carried out with 51 genotypes (36 hybrids developed by crossing 12 lines and 3 testers) of garden pea (Pisum sativum L). The per cent heterosis over mid-parent and better parent was worked out for yield and yield related attributes. Heterosis was valued in this study. Heterosis values were significant over better parent and mid parent in desirable direction in most crosses for yield and quality characters under studies. The crosses involving Palam Priya Ã— Azad Pea-1 and Palam Priya Ã— VL-Ageti Matar-7 exhibited maximum magnitude of positive and significant heterosis over mid-parent and better parent for fruit yield per plant and fruit yield per hectare in garden pea indicating the potential of selected hybrids over existing homozygous parental lines and exploitation of dispersion of alleles between the parents and mean directional dominance gene action in crop improvement. The F2 population can be uti','Yield, Heterosis, Garden pea.',' On the basis of present studies, it can be concluded that the hybrids namely Palam Priya Ã— Azad Pea-1 and Palam Priya Ã— VL-Ageti Matar-7 were found to be superior hybrids selected for yield since these crosses exhibited significant heterosis and sca effects for yield per hectare. These crosses can be further assessed for their yield stability to confirm their potentiality and also their adaptability to agro-climatic conditions of Jammu region before exploiting them on commercial scale. The segregating material from further generation can be utilized for isolating potential material.','-','Kumar, M., Samnotra, R.K. and Kumar, S. (2021). Heterosis Studies for Yield and Quality Traits in Garden Peas (Pisum sativum L.). Biological Forum â€“ An International Journal, 13(3): 686-694.'),(3894,'102','Shelf-Life Study of Fish Silage Prepared from Freshwater Fish Waste','Hauzoukim*, Subal Kumar Ghosh, Sagarika Swain, Anwesha Roy, Sambid Swain and Sreepriya Prakasan','120 Shelf-Life Study of Fish Silage Prepared from Freshwater Fish Waste Hauzoukim.pdf','',1,'The present study was undertaken to investigate the suitability for the transformation of fish market waste into silage by using two different solvents; Inorganic (98% sulphuric acid) organic (98% formic acid). Indian aquaculture, which is dominated by carps, is extremely promising and has increased by more than six and a half times in the last two decades, with freshwater aquaculture accounting for more than 95% of total aquaculture production. Only 25-50% of the raw material is used for human consumption, according to estimates. The remaining 50-75% of raw material is processing waste and can be used to make low-valued goods. Fish silage was prepared using 3.5% sulphuric acid and formic acid with added Butylated Hydroxy Tolune (BHT). The storage is always a problem in silage production. The study was conducted for 60days at room temperature. The biochemical parameters (pH, TVB-N, TBARS, AAN) gradually increase during the course of storage but does not exceed the acceptable level. The','Fish market waste, Fish silage, Biochemical changes.','Freshwater fish processing generates a large amount of processing waste, the most common of which is visceral waste. Acid ensilation might be a potential option for converting these wastes into valuable byproducts. Only little changes in the dry matter, protein, lipid, and mineral fractions occurred throughout the acid ensiling process, demonstrating the methodology\' applicability. In the production of high-quality, nutrient-rich powder fish silage, fish viscera might be a good replacement for expensive fishmeal. In the preparation of fish and animal feed, it will be feasible to partially substitute expensive fish meal. Fish and other animals\' growth performance in farm culture conditions should be tested with fish silage. It was necessary to conduct research on the most acceptable packaging for such a product for local marketing. The addition of BHT to acid silages made from carp fish viscera delayed the process of auto oxidation, and the low pH inhibited microbe multiplication. The p','-','Hauzoukim, Ghosh, S.K., Swain, S., Roy, A., Swain, S., and Prakasan, S., (2021). Shelf-Life Study of Fish Silage Prepared from Freshwater Fish Waste. Biological Forum â€“ An International Journal, 13(3): 695-700.'),(3895,'102','A Study on Phytoplankton Community Structure of Nethravati River (Mangaluru), South-west Coast of India','K. Madhavi* and R.R. Anupama','121 A Study on Phytoplankton Community Structure of Nethravati River _Mangaluru_, South-west Coast of India K. Madhavi.pdf','',1,'Present investigation was carried out by collecting surface water and phytoplankton (mesoplankton) samples at monthly intervals from Nethravathi River for a period of 16 months to analyse selected physico-chemical parameters of water and community structure of Phytoplankton. Plankton community structure was represented by Chrysophyta (18 genera), Cyanophyta (16 genera), Chlorophyta (31 genera) and Rhodophyta (1 genera). Cyanophytes and Chlophytes seems to be the dominant plankters of the river. Seasonal impact was observed on the community structure, being dominated by cyanophytes during monsoon and post-monsoon seasons, whereas, by chlorophytes during pre-monsoon season. The study infers that the phytoplankton diversity and distribution are subject to changes in the ecosystem. Therefore a frequent monitoring of these ecosystems is required by assessing biological diversity which is crucial to know the health of such globally threatened ecosystem.','Phytoplankton, Nethravathi River, Mesoplankton.','Present investigation was carried out by collecting surface water and phytoplankton (mesoplankton) samples at monthly intervals from Nethravathi River for a period of 16 months to analyse selected physico-chemical parameters of water and community structure of Phytoplankton. Plankton community structure was represented by Chrysophyta (18 genera), Cyanophyta (16 genera), Chlorophyta (31 genera) and Rhodophyta (1 genera). Cyanophytes and Chlophytes seems to be the dominant plankters of the river. Seasonal impact was observed on the community structure, being dominated by cyanophytes during monsoon and post-monsoon seasons, whereas, by chlorophytes during pre-monsoon season. The study infers that the phytoplankton diversity and distribution are subject to changes in the ecosystem. Therefore a frequent monitoring of these ecosystems is required by assessing biological diversity which is crucial to know the health of such globally threatened ecosystem.','-','Madhavi, K. and Anupama, R. R. (2021). A Study on Phytoplankton Community Structure of Nethravati River (Mangaluru), South-west Coast of India. Biological Forum â€“ An International Journal, 13(3): 701-705.'),(3896,'112','Impact of different Sources of Zinc on Yield, Yield Components and Nutrient Uptake of Sweetcorn','Monika Peddapuli*, B. Venkateswarlu and V. Sai Surya Gowthami','255 Impact of Different Sources of Zinc on Yield, Yield Components and Nutrient Uptake of Sweetcorn Monika Peddapuli.pdf','',1,'Micronutrient malnutrition has been widespread both in developing and developed countries affecting about 2 billion people. In contrast, most of the cereal based crops are fundamentally deficient in micronutrients. Food fortification is widely acknowledged as an effectual approach to enhance micronutrient status in population. Agronomic fortification of cereals is a rapid and effective method to enrich the cereals with the micronutrients particulary zinc. A field experiment was conducted during kharif, season of 2020-21 at Agricultural College Farm, Bapatla. The experiment was laid out in simple Randomised Block Design with nine treatments and replicated thrice. Among different sources of zinc, soil application of 10 kg ha-1 Zn EDTA + foliar application of nano zinc @ 250 ppm at 20 & 40 DAS along with RDF recorded significantly highest green cob yield (12,638 kg ha-1), stover yield (7590 kg ha-1), number of seed rows cob-1 (16.84), number of seeds row-1 (32.57), cob length (22.44 cm), ','Nutrient Uptake, Nano Zinc, Cob Girth and Stover Yield. ','Soil application of Zn EDTA (10 kg ha-1) along with the two foliar sprays of nano zinc (250 ppm) at 20 and 40 DAS was found to be more effective in improving yield attributes, cob and stover yield of sweetcorn. The highest zinc and nitrogen uptake by the plant at harvest was noticed in the plots treated with RDF along with soil application of 10 kg ha-1 Zn EDTA + foliar application of nano zinc @ 250 ppm at 20 & 40 DAS treatment and the lowest was observed in control.','-','Monika Peddapuli, B. Venkateswarlu and V. Sai Surya Gowthami (2022). Impact of different Sources of Zinc on Yield, Yield Components and Nutrient Uptake of Sweetcorn. Biological Forum â€“ An International Journal, 14(1): 1456-1461.'),(3897,'112','Growth Comparison between Three Brassica species in Response to Nutrient Management and Iron Sulphide Nanoparticles','Rakhi Mahto*, Rajesh Kumar Singh, Arvind Kumar Singh, Monalisa Sahoo and Anurag Kumar Singh','256 Growth Comparison Between Three Brassica species in Response to Nutrient Management and Iron Sulphide Nanoparticles Rakhi Mahto.pdf','',1,'The aim of present study to determine the suitable doses of nano iron sulphide along with nutrient management on three Brassica species. Experiment conducted at Agricultural Research Farm, BHU Varanasi which comprised 24 treatment combination involving three genotype ( Brassica juncea, Brassica carinata, Brassica napus) as main plot, nutrient level (100% RDF and 75% RDF with 25% nitrogen FYM )as sub plot treatment and three iron sulphide nanoparticles levels (0, 4, 8 and 12 ppm) as sub-sub plot treatment in split-split plot design replicated thrice during Rabi seasonof 2017â€“18 and 2018â€“19.Result disclosed that nanoparticles particle have capacity to replace chemical fertilizer and boosted the photosynthesis, net assimilation and plant relative growth. Statistical analysis of the experiment revealed that application of foliar spray of 8 ppm iron sulphide nanoparticles with application of 75% RDF with 25% nitrogen FYM in Brassica juncea significantly enhanced the LAI, CGR and RGR ','Brassica, LAI, CGR, FYM, RDF, RGR.','Based on the finding during the two years of investigation it could be inferred that Brassica juncea gave highest value of LAI followed by Brassica carinata and Brassica napus in all stages. Similar trend was observed in CGR and RGR value upto 90 DAS. However, it was at par with Brassica carinata at later stages. Upto harvest the trend was reversed and Brassica carinata acquired highest CGR and RGR value in both years of investigation.\r\nAmong nitrogen management 75% RDF with 25% nitrogen through FYM gave higher value of LAI, CGR and RGR value during both years. Increasing concentration of iron sulphide nanoparticles brought significant increment in growth traits in comparison to water spray during both the years of experimentation. 8 ppm spray of iron sulphide nanoparticles was more efficient in producing significant changes in growth attributes followed by 12 ppm and later was at par with 4 ppm.\r\nOverall the foliar spray of 8 ppm iron sulphide nanoparticles with application of 75%','-','Rakhi Mahto, Rajesh Kumar Singh, Arvind Kumar Singh, Monalisa Sahoo and Anurag Kumar Singh (2022). Growth Comparison Between Three Brassica species in Response to Nutrient Management and Iron Sulphide Nanoparticles. Biological Forum â€“ An International J'),(3898,'112','Comparative Studies on the Competitive Displacement of major Indigenous pests of Sorghum in Relation to Invasive Alien pest Fall Armyworm, Spodoptera frugiperda','Jatin K., S.P.S. Tomar, Sathish Kota, Suraj Mishra and Jagdish Jaba*','257 Comparative Studies on the Competitive Displacement of major Indigenous pests of Sorghum in Relation to Invasive Alien pest Fall Armyworm, Spodoptera frugiperda Jatin K.pdf','',1,'Elimination/displacement of major indigenous pests from their natural habitat by other invasive pests are results of direct and indirect competitive interactions. Competitive displacement could be related to the decrease in native pest population and this type of interactions are most commonly observed in individuals competing for the same food resource or occupying the same ecological habitat. The present study is about the impact of Fall armyworm, (Spodoptera frugiperda) on the native pest community of shoot fly, Atherigona soccata (Rondani) and Stem borer, Chilo partellus (swinhoe) are considered as economically important pests of sorghum and maize during the Kharif and Rabi seasons in India. There is a clear indication that shoot fly and stem borer infestation starts at the at same age of the crop causing a huge loss. However, during the recent times after the invasion of fall armyworm the native pest complex scenario has changed in sorghum/maize ecosystem. There is very little inf','Indigenous pest, Sorghum, Shoot fly, Stem borer, FAW','The present study gives further insight on FAW influencing the partial disappearance, low survival rates of shoot fly and stem borer in sorghum crop. More research is needed to understand the detailed competitive displacement rate for all cereals and millets crops. Our present results, it was confounded that the arrival of FAW in 2018, the damage and yield losses by stem borers, which had previously been a serious danger to maize production in India, have suddenly waned, indicating likely displacement or at the very least interaction amongst indigenous stem borers. Inter and intra specific interactions among the communities of borers, cannibalism also plays an important role in the displacement of larvae. Further there is need be study under laboratory condition on the cannibalism rate between intra and inter species pest complex of sorghum crops. ','-','Jatin, K., S.P.S. Tomar, Sathish Kota, Suraj Mishra and Jagdish Jaba* (2022). Comparative Studies on the Competitive Displacement of major Indigenous pests of Sorghum in Relation to Invasive Alien pest Fall Armyworm, Spodoptera frugiperda. Biological For'),(3899,'112','Effect of Vermicompost and Bio-Fertilizers on Yield and Economics of Organic Lentil (Lens culinaris Medik)','Jonnadula Kaushik, Rajesh Singh and Ekta Singh','258 Effect of Vermicompost and Bio-Fertilizers on Yield and Economics of Organic Lentil _Lens culinaris Medik_ Jonnadula Kasuhik.pdf','',1,'A field research was carried out during Rabi Season of 2020-2021 at crop research farm of SHUATS, U.P., India. The experiment was done on Effect of levels of vermicompost and bio-fertilizers on economics and yield of lentil. It consists of 3 Levels of Vermicompost @ (75 %- 3.75 t/ha, 100 %-5t/ha, 125 % -6.25t/ha) and Bio-fertilizers (Rhizobium & PGPR)@ 20g/kg (Seed treatment) and was carried out through Randomized Block Design (RBD) with 3 replications. Variety used was K-73. Among all the treatments the plot treated with Vermicompost@125% + Rhizobium + PGPR has produced significantly highest Seed yield (2520 kg/ha) and Harvest index (33.4) and also fetched highest Gross returns (201600.00 INR/ha), Net returns (144110.00 INR/ha) and Benefit Cost ratio (2:5) when compared to the control. Description of the study indicates that while technology induced farming uses the excessive use chemicals, fertilizers, pesticides, and weedicides in agriculture has caused problem to all living beings ','Bio-fertilizers, Benefit cost Ratio, PGPR (Psuedomonas fluorescence)','It is concluded from the above discussion that application of Vermicompost @125(6.5 t/ha) + Bio-fertilizers (Rhizobium + PGPR @ 20g/kg seed treated plots in Lentil was observed to be the best, that recorded significantly higher seed yield. It also drew the maximum Gross return, Net return, and benefit cost ratio as compared to other treatment combinations.','-','Jonnadula Kaushik, Rajesh Singh and Ekta Singh (2022). Effect of Vermicompost and Bio-Fertilizers on Yield and Economics of Organic Lentil (Lens culinaris Medik). Biological Forum â€“ An International Journal, 14(1): 1474-1476.'),(3900,'112','Study of Genetic Variability, Correlation and Path coefficient Analysis in F2 Segregating Population of Tomato (Solanum lycopersicum L.)','Sangamesh Nevani*, O. Sridevi, Lokesh Kumar Verma, Akshaya M., Shreyas A. and B.D. Biradar','259 Study of Genetic Variability, Correlation and Path coefficient Analysis in F2 Segregating Population of Tomato Solanum lycopersicum L. Sangamesh Nevani.pdf','',1,'Different sources of creating the variability are mutation, recombinant DNA technology, natural variation and recombinational variability. Variation due to recombination will helps in selection of superior segregants in segregating generation. This study was done to know the magnitude to genetic variability due to recombination. From the segregating F2 population of the cross DMT-2 Ã— Line 38, genetic variability, correlation and path coefficient analysis were studied using 14 quantitative and qualitative traits. The study showed that existence of significant amount of genetic variability for all the characters studied viz., Plant height, number of clusters, number of fruits per clusters, number of fruits per plant, average fruit weight, number of locules, pH of fruit juice and fruit yield per plant exhibited higher values of genotypic and phenotypic coefficient of variation. Whereas, high heritability was shown by all characters except primary branches per plant, while days to 1st ha','Tomato, Variability, Heritability, F2 Segregating Population, Correlation and Path analysis.','In respect of fruit yield, which is the most important character in any crop improvement programme, high heritability coupled with high genetic advance was the important parameter. It indicates the chances for wide range for selection in F2 population of the cross DMT-2 Ã— Line 38 and the yield per plant was positively and significantly correlated with plant height, primary branches per plant, number of clusters, number of fruits per cluster, number of fruits per plant and average fruit weight. In path coefficient analysis the highest positive direct effect was recorded in number of clusters, average fruit weight, number of fruits per cluster and number of fruits per plant. Hence, these traits can further be exploited by direct selection for genetic improvement in tomato to bring about the improvement in yield, from this study we obtained important transgressive segregants which can be selfed upto they attain homozygosity and can be released as new variety.','-','Sangamesh Nevani, O. Sridevi, Lokesh Kumar Verma, Akshaya M., Shreyas A. and B.D. Biradar (2022). Study of Genetic Variability, Correlation and Path coefficient Analysis in F2 Segregating Population of Tomato (Solanum lycopersicum L.). Biological Forum â€'),(3901,'112','Front Line Demonstration of Turmeric Cultivation on Raised Bed with Drip System in Telangana','E. Rambabu*, M. Sunil Kumar, S. Malathi, N. Kishore Kumar, A. Ramulamma and B. Kranthi Kumar','260 Front Line Demonstration of Turmeric Cultivation on Raised Bed with Drip System in Telangana E. Rambabu.pdf','',1,'Krishi Vigyan Kendra, Malyal conducted front line demonstration of Turmeric on raised bed with drip system during Kharif seasons of 2017-18, 2018-19 and 2019-20 at Bethol, Aleru, Chinnamupparam and Nellikuduru villages of Mahabubabad district, Telangana for efficient use of natural resources and minimizing the pest and diseases in order to get bumper yields and income. Cultivation of turmeric by conventional flat bed method in the region leads to poor drainage, more pest and disease incidence and low yields. The demonstration comprised of seed treatment with metalaxyl + mancozeb @ 2 g/l + monocrotophos @ 1.5ml/l of water followed by soaking in Trichoderma viride @ 5g/l of water, sowing as paired row on raised beds of convenient length, 90 cm width and 20-25 cm height, FYM @ 10 t/acre, Neem cake @ 2 q/acre, NPK fertilizers @ 70:24:45 kg/acre and plant protection measures with chlorantraniliprole @ 0.3ml/l, propiconazole @ 2ml/l and resulted in 35.72% higher yield (75.33q/ha) as against ','Drip irrigation, dry rhizome yield, raised bed cultivation, rhizome rot, turmeric. ','From the present study, it was successfully demonstrated in farmerâ€™s fields that growing turmeric on raised bed method with drip system of irrigation would give better yields and economics besides reducing disease incidence and hence wider awareness programmes among the farmers could be taken up through mass and press media for its large scale adoption.','-','E. Rambabu, M. Sunil Kumar, S. Malathi, N. Kishore Kumar, A. Ramulamma and B. Kranthi Kumar (2022). Front Line Demonstration of Turmeric Cultivation on Raised Bed with Drip System in Telangana. Biological Forum â€“ An International Journal, 14(1): 1483-1'),(3902,'112','Design and Development of Eco-friendly Thermoelectric Cooler','S.P. Prakash*, V. Nithyalakshmi, G. Sujatha and R. Marx Nirmal','261 Design and Development of Eco-friendly Thermoelectric Cooler S.P. Prakash.pdf','',1,'This research aims to develop a cooling system that will provide a cooling effect using a thermoelectric module without the use of moving mechanical parts such as the condenser, compressor and evaporator. Working fluids (Refrigerants) are not required in a thermoelectric cooling system to produce a refrigeration effect. This device can cool liquid without the use of refrigerants. This compact design is particularly valuable for Choro fluorocarbon (CFC) elimination and would replace conventional refrigeration systems. In comparison to traditional compressors, which contain hazardous gases that are harmful to the environment, thermoelectric cooling is eco-friendly, vibration-free, and noiseless in operation. In the present work, the thermoelectric cooling system was fabricated by thermoelectric module (TEC1 12715) based on heat load calculation and 120 W DC electrical power (Switched-mode power supply) was supplied to a thermoelectric cooling system. The thermoelectric cooling system is ','Thermoelectric module, water cooling, temperature, refrigeration effect, C.O.P.','We have been successfully fabricated a thermoelectric water cooling system that fulfills the proposed goals. In the present project, the maximum refrigeration effect of the fabricated system at 120W power input is observed as 57.6W and the maximum C.O.P. at the same power as 0.48. The current model, on the other hand, can only \r\nbe used to reduce the temperature of a modest heat load to a specific value. We can deduct from the given facts that thermoelectric cooling systems add a new dimension to cooling. Milk and other beverages can also be chilled using thermoelectric cooling technology. It has a significant impact on the conventional system. Thermoelectric cooling systems are small in size, have no frictional parts, require no coolant, and are light in weight. Before it can be issued for effective field use, it must undergo extensive adjustments.\r\n','-','We have been successfully fabricated a thermoelectric water cooling system that fulfills the proposed goals. In the present project, the maximum refrigeration effect of the fabricated system at 120W power input is observed as 57.6W and the maximum C.O.P. '),(3903,'112','Effect of Different Carbon and Nitrogen Sources on Mycelial Growth and Sclerotial Formation of Sclerotium rolfsii Sacc. causing Stem Rot of Wheat','Vikram*, Praful Kumar and Ashwarya L. Tandon','262 Effect of Different Carbon and Nitrogen Sources on Mycelial Growth and Sclerotial Formation of Sclerotium rolfsii Sacc. Causing Stem Rot of Wheat Vikram.pdf','',1,'Nutritional requirements in semi-synthetic media is very essential for growth and survival of S. rolfsii. However, there is little information on the nutritional requirements of S. rolfsii. Therefore, In vitro experiments were conducted at the Department of Plant Pathology, College of Agriculture (Indira Gandhi Krishi Vishwavidyalaya) Raipur, Chhattisgarh, to evaluate the effect of different carbon and nitrogen sources on mycelial growth and sclerotial formation of Sclerotium rolfsii Sacc. causing stem rot of wheat. The treatments comprised of the six-carbon sources viz., Glucose, Lactose, Maltose, Mannitol, Starch, and Sucrose, and six nitrogen sources viz., Glycine, Barium nitrate, Magnesium nitrate, Potassium nitrite, Sodium nitrate, and Urea with separate control, for both carbon and nitrogen, were maintained by using Dextrose as carbon source and Sodium nitrate as nitrogen source. Radial growth, number of sclerotia, mycelial density, colony shape, mycelia texture, sclerotia color,','Sclerotium rolfsii, Stem rot, Wheat, Carbon source, Nitrogen source.','In this investigation, considerable variations in mycelial growth, and sclerotial development were observed using different N and C nutritional sources for S. rolfsii culture under laboratory conditions. However, to provide a greater understanding of the biology of S. rolfsii, further investigations into the effect on pathogen development under field conditions are needed. Such investigations would improve our understanding of the pathogenâ€™s population dynamics in soil and help to implement effective disease control methods.','-','Vikram, Praful Kumar and Ashwarya L. Tandon (2022). Effect of different Carbon and Nitrogen sources on Mycelial Growth and Sclerotial Formation of Sclerotium rolfsii Sacc. Causing Stem Rot of Wheat. Biological Forum â€“ An International Journal, 14(1): 14'),(3904,'112','Studies on the Effect of Dosage and Application Schedule of gibberellic Acid and Benzyl Adenine on Growth Parameters of Gypsophila (Gypsophila paniculata L.) cv. Star World','S. Akshitha*, A. Girwani, P. Prasanth, Veena Joshi and S. Praneeth Kumar','263 Studies on the Effect of Dosage and Application Schedule of gibberellic Acid and Benzyl Adenine on Growth Parameters of Gypsophila Gypsophila paniculata L. cv. Star World S. Akshitha.pdf','',1,'A field experiment was conducted to evaluate the effect of dosage and application schedule of gibberellic acid and benzyl adenine on growth parameters in gypsophila cv. Star World during kharif 2019-2020 at Floricultural Research Station, ARI, Rajendranagar. The soil of experimental plot was sandy loam with good drainage and moderately low water holding capacity. The soil pH is 7.2 and E.C. is 0.27 dSm-1. The available nitrogen of the soil is at 200.30 kg/ha, phosphorous at 45 kg/ha and potassium at 168.75 kg/ha. The experiment consisted of growth regulators GA3 and BA at 150, 300 and 450 ppm, water spray and two schedules of application at 30 and 45 days after pruning. The experiment was laid out in completely randomized block design with factorial concept with fourteen treatments replicated twice. The experiment results revealed that (G3S2) GA3 at 450 ppm and double spray recorded maximum plant height (98.29 cm), plant spread in E-W direction (54.50 cm), plant spread in N-S direction','Gypsophila, gibberellic acid, benzyl adenine, growth parameters.','Based on the above findings among the interactions foliar application of GA3 at 450 ppm + double spray and BA at 150 ppm + double spray was proved most effective in increasing the growth parameters of gypsophila.','-','S. Akshitha, A. Girwani, P. Prasanth, Veena Joshi and S. Praneeth Kumar (2022). Studies on the Effect of Dosage and Application Schedule of gibberellic Acid and Benzyl Adenine on Growth Parameters of Gypsophila (Gypsophila paniculata L.) cv. Star World. B'),(3905,'112','Analysis of Genotype Ã— Environment Interaction and Identification of Superior Mango (Mangifera indica L.) Genotypes using Eberhart and Russellâ€™s Stability Model','K. Sai Krishna*, Ram Kumar Chaudhary and Mahesh Kumar','264 Analysis of Genotype Ã— Environment Interaction and Identification of Superior Mango _Mangifera indica L._ Genotypes using Eberhart and Russellâ€™s Stability Model K Sai Krishna.pdf','',1,'Mango is one of the most important commercially grown fruit crops in India with greatest collection of varieties. Genotypes does not show same response in all locations due to their interactions with the surrounding environment. Presence of such interactions limits the breeding progress during selection of superior genotypes. Multi location trials are being carried out to study the behaviour of genotypes over different environments. Genotype environment interaction is a major problem in selecting and recommending superior genotypes for the cultivation of crops. This problem gets intensified, when we are dealing with perennial crops like Mango because choosing unstable cultivars to plant in an orchard puts the farmers in a risky income situation for many years. In the present investigation, an attempt has been made to identify the high yielding and stable genotypes of mango by using Eberhart and Russellâ€™s stability model. Data on sixteen genotypes of mango tested across four locations','Adaptability, Genotype Ã— Environment interaction, Mango, Perennial, Stability.','Considering the overall performance, Mallika was found to be the stable genotype for cultivation under unfavourable environmental conditions, while the genotypes Vanraj and Totapari were suitable for cultivation under favourable conditions. None of the genotypes were stable across all test environments, hence the emphasis should be laid on the need for environment specific genotypes.','-','K. Sai Krishna, Ram Kumar Chaudhary and Mahesh Kumar (2021). Analysis of Genotype Ã— Environment Interaction and Identification of Superior Mango (Mangifera indica L.) Genotypes using Eberhart and Russellâ€™s Stability Model. Biological Forum â€“ An Inter'),(3906,'112','Induction of Genetic Variability through Gamma Radiation on Vegetative and Floral Characters of Gladiolus (Gladiolus grandiflorus L.)','E. Sathyanarayana*, Jitendra Singh and B.K. Das','265 Induction of Genetic Variability through Gamma Radiation on Vegetative and Floral Characters of Gladiolus Gladiolus grandiflorus L. E. Sathyanarayana.pdf','',1,'Field investigations were carried out to know the â€œInduction of genetic variability through gamma radiation on vegetative and floral characters of gladiolus (Gladiolus grandiflorus L.)â€ was carried out at Floriculture Research Farm, Department of Floriculture and Landscape Architecture, Indira Gandhi Krishi Vishvidyalaya, Raipur, India during winter of 2018-19 and 2019-20. To conduct field experiment five cultivars of gladiolus namely American Beauty (V1), Dull Queen (V2), Saffron (V3), Candy Man (V4) and Summer Sunshine (V5) were irradiated with different doses (0, 15, 25, 35, 45 and 55 Gy) of gamma rays from 60Co source and planted under open field condition in Randomized Block Design (RBD) with factorial concept. Significantly minimum number of days required for sprouting, maximum number of sprouts per corm, number of leaves per plant and minimum days taken to spike initiation and maximum spike length, florets per spike and spikes yield was found in the lower dose of gamma irrad','Gladiolus, Varieties, Gamma Rays, Vegetative, Spikes and Mutants.','The current study concluded that the lower dose of gamma irradiation treatment, i.e. 15 and 25 Gy gamma rays, significantly reduced the number of days required for sprouting, maximum number of sprouts per corm, number of leaves per plant, and minimum days taken to spike initiation and maximum spike length, florets per spike, and spike yield in both vM1 and vM2 generations. At and after 45 and 55 Gy treatments, expressions of vegetative and floral characteristics were reduced and delayed. Doses of 45 and 55 Gy were found to be the most effective for inducing colour mutation.','-','E. Sathyanarayana, Jitendra Singh and B.K. Das (2022). Induction of Genetic Variability through Gamma Radiation on Vegetative and Floral Characters of Gladiolus (Gladiolus grandiflorus L.). Biological Forum â€“ An International Journal, 14(1): 1506-1513.'),(3907,'112','Biological Control of Castor Semilooper, Achaea janata L. in Castor Agroecosystems in India- A Review','Puneet, Balbir Singh, Deepak Kumar* and Lokesh Yadav','266 Biological Control of Castor Semilooper, Achaea janata L. in Castor Agroecosystems in India- A Review Puneet.pdf','',1,'Castor is an important oilseed crop grown all around the globe with a wide range of industrial applications. Castor though being a hardy crop is still attacked by a large number of pests but the dominant ones are the insects. Insects are found to attack almost every growth stage of castor crop and cause severe yield losses. Among the insect pests, castor semilooper, Achaea janata L. is one of the major defoliators causing severe damage to the crop ultimately leading to drastic reductions in yield. A number of natural enemies are reported to be present invariably associated with the field populations of castor semilooper in castor agroecosystems. Among them the braconid endoparasiotid, Microplitis maculipennis is a major regulator of castor semilooper larval populations. Trichogramma spp. causes parasitisation of the semilooper eggs to a fair extent. Predatory birds also contribute a lot as far as natural control of castor semilooper is concerned.','Castor, Achaea janata, biological control, natural enemies.','Numerous studies have been conducted for biocontrol of A. janataes pecially in castor agroecosystems. The eggs of A. janata are parasitized naturally to a great extent by a number of egg-parasitoids, Trichogramma spp. being the major proportion of them. The larval populations are attacked by number of parasitoids, predators and insectivorous birds. Among the larval parasitoid, Microplitis maculipennisis found closely associated with A. janata larvae and cause substantial reductions in their population. Insectivorous birds are a major part of natural biocontrol as far as A. janata is concerned. Erection of bird perches in castor fields further enhanced their efficacy as predators of larval populations of castor semilooper. Biological control agents can be effective components of the pest management systems focussed on castor semilooper.','-','Puneet, Balbir Singh, Deepak Kumar and Lokesh Yadav (2022). Biological Control of Castor Semilooper, Achaea janata L. in Castor Agroecosystems in India- A Review. Biological Forum â€“ An International Journal, 14(1): 1514-1520.'),(3908,'112','Screening of Arjun (Terminalia arjuna) Accessions based on Drought Tolerance Indices under various Environmental conditions','Pandiaraj T.*, Harendra Yadav, Manjappa and D.K. Singh','267 Screening of Arjun Terminalia arjuna Accessions based on Drought Tolerance Indices under various Environmental conditions Pandiaraj T.pdf','',1,'Tasar silkworm (Antheraea mylitta) primarily feeds a dozen of food plants. Of which, Arjun (Terminalia arjuna) is a major food plant growing largely in rainfed condition. Often, the Arjun plant is growing under water stress condition during most part of the growing period causes considerable reduction in leaf quality and yield which in turns to affect the Tasar cocoon quality and yield. With the aim of screening the most potential accessions of arjun (Terminal arjuna) plant for drought environmental conditions, a study was conducted in factorial experimental design under two stress environmental conditions i.e., stress and non-stress in 2016-2018. Nine different drought tolerance/resistance indices comprising stress tolerance index (STI), mean production (MP), geometric mean production (GMP), tolerance index (TOL), stress susceptibility index (SSI), yield stability index (YSI), relative drought index (RDI), drought resistance index (DI) and yield index (YI) were evaluated on the basis ','Drought, Indices, Ranking, Tasar, Terminalia arjuna.','The results of this study concluded that all indices of drought tolerance and resistance except RDI and YSI showed highest correlaÂ¬tion with leaf yield in both stress and non-stress environments representing great suitability of these indices for identification of tolerant accessions. Identifying drought tolerant accessions based on ranking method indicated accessions 525, 123, \r\n135 and 523 as the best drought tolerant. Hence, it could be recommended as used as parents for breeding of drought tolerÂ¬ance in the desired accessions. Besides, this study revealed that among drought tolerance indices MP, STI, GMP, YSI, TOL, RDI, DI and YI can be used as the best suitable criteria for selecting drought tolerant accessions for T. arjuna.\r\n','INTRODUCTION\r\nArjun (Terminalia arjuna) is one of the most important food plants for tasar silkworm (Antheraea mylitta) in which its leaf yield is on average 3 to 5 kg/ha. The Arjun plant is widely distributed over India. Tasar silkworm feeds a dozen of plant species of different families; however, it favours the leaves of T. tomentosa (Asan), T. arjuna (Arjun) and Shorea robusta (Sal) and are believed as primary food plants. India is the only land producing all the five industrially developed silks namely Mulberry silk, Eri, tropical and temperate/Oak Tasar and Muga silk. Of which, Tasar silk is mainly produced in many Indian states like Jharkhand, Chhattisgarh, Odisha, West Bengal, Andhra Pradesh, Telangana and Maharashtra. Tasar sericulture has huge potential of providing employment opportunities to a great tribal population with little investment. Around 3.0 lakh families, mostly tribals, are dependent on the industry (CSB, 2017).\r\nThe Arjun plant is widely grown as rainfed in arid','Pandiaraj T., Harendra Yadav, Manjappa and D.K. Singh (2022). Screening of Arjun (Terminalia arjuna) Accessions based on Drought Tolerance Indices under various Environmental conditions. Biological Forum â€“ An International Journal, 14(1): 1521-1525.'),(3909,'112','Soil Moisture Status in Eucalypts based Agroforestry System in Semi-Arid Region of Haryana','Stanley Kombra*, K.S. Ahlawat, Chhavi Sirohi, P. Poonia, Charan Singh, Sneh Yadav and Pankaj Singroha','268 Soil Moisture Status in Eucalypts based Agroforestry System in Semi-Arid Region of Haryana Stanley Kombra.pdf','',1,'Agroforestry systems have substantially altered soil properties in both surface and sub-surface layers. Information on the effect of Eucalypts based agroforestry on the status of soil moisture content is minimal. The present study investigated changes in soil moisture stauts under eucalypts (Eucalyptus tereticornis) based agroforestry and monocropped systems (sole barley and mustard) in semi-arid region of Haryana. During this study, we quantified the stauts of soil moisture content at different distances from tree line (1.5m, 2.5m and 3.5m). The maximum moisture content (20.3 %) was observed at 30-45 cm soil depth at 3.5 m away from tree line after 7 days of 1st irrigation. Whereas, mustard and barley intercropped with eucalypts exhibited minimum moisture content (5.2 %) at 0-15 cm soil depth at 1.5 m distance from tree line before 2nd irrigation.','Agroforestry, soil moisture, tree line distance, soil depth, irrigation','The present investigation concludes that mustard intercropped with eucalypts based agroforestry system exhibited maximum percent reduction (51.9 %) at 0-15 cm depth at1.5 m distance from tree line, before 2nd irrigation. However, distance 3.5 m from eucalypts tree line and soil depth 30-45 cm exhibited minimum per cent reduction (9.4 %) after 7 days of 1st irrigation when barley grown in the interspaces of eucalypts plantation and control. During this study, the moisture content was lower under eucalypts based agroforestry system due to more competition between crop and tree for moisture. ','INTRODUCTION\r\nAgroforestry is an integrated land-use system approach (Aryal et al., 2019), different from the sum of its two major components, viz., agriculture and forestry (Nair et al., 2021). The specific advantages of this system can be environmental, social and economic (Wato and Amara, 2020). Due to overexploitation, unscientific collection, and illegal export, the genetic resources of valuable crops are getting exhausted very fast. The crops are being cultivated along with the trees under agroforestry systems to overcome this situation (Elevitch et al., 2018). Growing trees on agricultural fields, combined with agricultural crops to augment biomass production per unit area, is becoming popular among farmers (Zahoor et al., 2021). Agroforestry occupies 25.32 million hectares (mha) or 8.2% of the total geographical area in India (Dhyani et al., 2013) and its area is expected to increase after the implementation and adoption of National Agroforestry Policy, 2014. These systems emer','Stanley Kombra, K.S. Ahlawat, Chhavi Sirohi, P. Poonia, Charan Singh, Sneh Yadav and Pankaj Singroha (2022). Soil Moisture Status in Eucalypts Based Agroforestry System in Semi-Arid Region of Haryana. Biological Forum â€“ An International Journal, 14(1):'),(3910,'112','Response of Growth, Flowering and Fruiting Parameters of Bell pepper cv. Indra against different Levels of Plant Growth Regulators under Protected conditions','Muneeb ul Rehman, Kulveer Singh Yadav* and Sachin Kishor','269 Response of Growth, Flowering and Fruiting Parameters of Bell pepper cv. Indra against different Levels of Plant Growth Regulators under Protected conditions Kulveer Singh Yadav.pdf','',1,'Olericulture is a lucrative activity because of potential profits, opportunities to farmers for better income and support for the food processing industry. The lockdown posed challenges to this sector which will have implications for the future. Thus present experiment was carried out to examine the response of growth, flowering and fruiting parameters of bell pepper cv. Indra against different levels of plant growth regulators under protected conditions at Agriculture Farm, School of Agricultural Sciences & Technology, RIMT University, Mandi Gobindgarh, Punjab, India during 2020-21 by using cultivar Indra with three replications and obtained was subjected to statistical analysis by using RBD at 5% of CD. The experimental material for the study comprised of two plant growth regulators with three concentrations (GA3 25, 50 & 75 ppm; NAA 50, 100 & 150 ppm) and a control. Under growth parameters, highest plant height (67.27 cm) and inter-nodal distance (6.73 cm) recorded with the applicat','Plant growth regulators, GA3, NAA, Bell pepper and Indra','On the basis of present study it may be conclude that micronutrients significantly increased overall growth and development of bell pepper plant. It was found that effect of treatment T7 (NAA @ 150 ppm) was excreted significant effect on growth, flowering and fruiting parameters of bell pepper cv Indra.','INTRODUCTION\r\nBell pepper (Capsicum annuum L.) is a member of family Solanaceae, commonly known as Shimla mirch. Bell peppers are native to Mexico with centre of diversity in South America (Gonzalez and Bosland, 1991). All the cultivated as well as wild species are diploid (2n=24). The bell pepper is a fruit vegetable well known for its high content in bioactive compounds and strong antioxidant capacity. All fresh peppers are excellent sources of vitamins C, K, carotenoids, and flavonoids (Dias, 2013). It was introduced in India by the Britishers in the 19th century in Shimla hills. It is commercially grown in Himachal Pradesh, Jammu Kashmir, Uttrakhand, Arunachal Pradesh and Darjeeling hills of West Bengal during summer months and as autumn crop in Maharashtra, Karnataka, Tamil Nadu and Bihar. Capsicum was grown on an area of 46 Tha with annual production of 288 TMT in India. In Punjab, bell pepper is grown on an area of 0.51 Tha with annual production of 4.81 TMT (Jindal and Dhaliwal','Muneeb ul Rehman, Kulveer Singh Yadav and Sachin Kishor (2022). Response of Growth, Flowering and Fruiting Parameters of Bell pepper cv. Indra against Different Levels of Plant Growth Regulators under Protected Conditions. Biological Forum â€“ An Internat'),(3911,'112','Organic Rice (Oryza sativa L.) Production for Sustainability of Hill Agro-ecosystem of North Eastern India','Popiha Bordoloi','270 Organic Rice _Oryza sativa L._ Production for Sustainability of Hill Agro-ecosystem of North Eastern India Popiha Bordoloi.pdf','',1,'The hilly farmers of North Eastern India are mostly practicing the chemical free farming with indigenous knowledge system from ages which can be considered as Organic Farming by default. But the productivity of crop is very low in this region due to low use of organic and inorganic fertilizers and pesticides along with soil acidity problem. The soils are also deteriorated day by day due to mono-cropping and imbalance fertilizer application. Introducing the location specific modern technologies, the challenges which hinders the development of Organic Farming in this region could be overcome which would be otherwise the boon for the farmers for increased the productivity of crop leading to economic development of the region. Rice is the major crop of this area and it is cultivated by imbalance fertilizer application. So, considering the above in view a Front Line Demonstration was conducted at the farmersâ€™ field of Ri-Bhoi District of Meghalaya of North Eastern Region of India during t','FLD, Organic Sources of Plant Nutrient, Paddy, Soil Health, Hill Agro-ecosystem, North Eastern India.','North East hilly region of India can be converted as a â€˜Hub of Organic Farmingâ€™ with proper implementation of modern technologies and by overcoming the major challenges which hinders the development of agriculture in this region. As rice is the major crop of this area, so adopting the technology of organic rice production would help for maintain the sustainability of hill agro-ecosystem of North Eastern India. This soil test-based technology of application of vermicompost along with bio-fertilizer if adopt properly can lead to increase the rice productivity. Further researches and implementation of location specific technologies with organic packages and practices are required urgently for increase the productivity of crop and for socio economic development of this disadvantageous region of India.','INTRODUCTION\r\nNorth Eastern India is located at the extreme north east corner of India which is connected to rest of India via a narrow corridor. It has vast and varied landscape with extremely diverse tradition and rich cultural heritage. The farmers of this region are practicing mostly the chemical free farming with indigenous knowledge system from ages which can be considered as Organic Farming by default (Bordoloi 2021 a). Organic Farming is a viable component of agricultural production system which has the capacity of balancing the resource use efficiency and environmental protection while boosting up the crop productivity (Sanjay-Swami, 2020; Bordoloi, 2021 b). Organic Farming in North East India can be the boon for the farmers for increase the productivity of the crops which could be the major tool for improve the economy and prosperity of the Region. Making the Organic Farming successful in the Region, the challenges which hinders the development of organic farming should be ad','Popiha Bordoloi (2022). Organic Rice (Oryza sativa L.) Production for Sustainability of Hill Agro-ecosystem of North Eastern India. Biological Forum â€“ An International Journal, 14(1): 1534-1537.'),(3912,'118','Glutamine Supplementation is not Associated with Anabolic Property after Resistance Exercise in Non-trained Individuals','Eizadi Mojtaba, Khorshidi Davood and Rezaei Mona','1 Glutamine Supplementation is not Associated with Anabolic Property after Resistance Exercise in Non-trained Individuals EIZADI MOJTABA.pdf','',1,'Glutamine has anabolic effects on glycogen metabolism that are beneficial for athletes involved in resistance training. To establish whether glutamine supplementation is associated with anabolic effect after resistance exercise in non-trained subjects, twenty four non-trained boy students aged 18-24 years of old were randomly divided into experimental (glutamine supplementation/ 30 g) or control (placebo) groups. All subjects of two groups were completed a intense resistance test (20 minutes up and down the bench 60 cm with a weight equivalent to 13 percent of their weight) then ingested glutamine and placebo (30g). Serum testosterone, cortisol and the ratio between them were measured before the resistance test and 24 hours after. Student\'s paired\'t\' test was applied to compare the pre and post values. A p-value of less than 0.05 was considered to be statistically significant. There were no statistically significant differences between two groups with regard to all variables at baselin','Glutamine supplementation, Resistance test, Anabolic','Glutamine has anabolic effects on glycogen metabolism that are beneficial for athletes involved in resistance training. To establish whether glutamine supplementation is associated with anabolic effect after resistance exercise in non-trained subjects, twenty four non-trained boy students aged 18-24 years of old were randomly divided into experimental (glutamine supplementation/ 30 g) or control (placebo) groups. All subjects of two groups were completed a intense resistance test (20 minutes up and down the bench 60 cm with a weight equivalent to 13 percent of their weight) then ingested glutamine and placebo (30g). Serum testosterone, cortisol and the ratio between them were measured before the resistance test and 24 hours after. Student\'s paired\'t\' test was applied to compare the pre and post values. A p-value of less than 0.05 was considered to be statistically significant. There were no statistically significant differences between two groups with regard to all variables at baselin','Nowadays, the use of dietary supplements such as proteins has become a growing trend among athletes, especially resistance athletes. Probably the most important reason for getting a high-protein diet, especially among resistance athletes and bodybuilders is to increase muscle mass. The resistance athletes take about 2 grams of protein per kilogram of body weight every day, which even amounts to 3 grams of protein in some cases (Phillips, 2004, 2006). \r\n Protein is one of the most essential dietary supplements recommended for athletes and active individuals. Protein supplements increase muscle mass in athletes, preventing from muscle protein catabolism during long-term exercise. Furthermore, it leads to higher glycogen synthesis after exercise along with increased synthesis of hemoglobin, myoglobin, mitochondrial and oxidative enzymes during aerobic exercise (William, 2005).\r\nIt has been demonstrated that simultaneous intake of carbohydrate and protein can lead to lower muscle exercise','Eizadi Mojtaba, Khorshidi Davood and Rezaei Mona (2015). Glutamine Supplementation is not Associated with Anabolic Property after Resistance Exercise in Non-trained Individuals, Biological Forum â€“ An International Journal 7(2): 01-04. '),(3913,'118','Studying of Winning or Losing on the Quality of Mood and Salivary Cortisol Concentrations in Female Futsalists','Esmat Ahmadi, Abdolali Banaei Far and Yaser Kazemzadeh','3 Studying of Winning or Losing on the Quality of Mood and Salivary Cortisol Concentrations in Female Futsalists ABDOLALI BANAEI FAR.pdf','',1,'The purpose of this study is to evaluate the effect of the losing and wining on the profile of mood quality and on the salivary cortisol concentrations in female futsal players. Stress increases the competition in any sport. Stress, both physical and psychological, and pressures of competition and tolerance of these pressures change the secretion of stress hormones such as cortisol. Dangerous physiological effects caused by these changes may be very disturbing. The purpose of this research is to study the impact of losing and winning on the quality of mood profile and on the salivary cortisol concentrations in female futsal players. The design of this study is quasi-experimental and 18 female futsalists in Club Competitions participated in this study. Saliva samples were taken 30 minutes after the end of the competition in one winning game and in one loosing game. The athletes completed questionnaires related to emotional states s after the race. The quality of mood states of subjects ','Cortisol, Profile, Mood, Winning or losing','According to competition studied in this research, the results obtained in this study are consistent with a lot of previous studies. The current situations show that the competition stress, the anxiety level and excitement along with competition are the main factors affecting the secretion of cortisol. Since the difference of changes in cortisol of subjects in losing game was more than winning game, this was probably due to differences in public mood states and anxiety of participants in the losing game. In these studies, high levels of anxiety were associated with high levels of cortisol (Haneishi et al., 2007). Based on the results, winning and losing affect the hormone cortisol which is an indicator of stress. It seems that cortisol reaction is the function of psychological stress along with competition since this hormone releases more in losing game and this competition stress is affected by stress hormones and hormonal changes are affected by physical and psychological stress duri','Sport is a science in which the scientific and professional issues of sport are concerned and the purpose of this science is that sport enthusiasts should consider all matters relating to sport sciences and apply them to be less affected and increase their skills in each sport through sport science (Free, 1389). \r\nThe ultimate goal of exercises is to improve performance. All athletes in each sport must work hard to develop performance. The success in the performance due to the adaptations made to the tissue and cellular level will be accomplished in the subsequent practice. The importance of winning or losing at the end of the official competition and hormonal changes, particularly hormones associated with stress after the sport events, attracted the attention of many researchers. Exposure to a variety of competitive conditions and the importance of winning result in changing of hormonal response of athletes and increase the frequency and severity of stress. \r\nOn the other hand the mo','Esmat Ahmadi, Abdolali Banaei Far and Yaser Kazemzadeh (2015) . Studying of Winning or Losing on the Quality of Mood and Salivary Cortisol Concentrations in Female Futsalists , Biological Forum â€“ An International Journal 7(2): 09-12. '),(3914,'118','Survey of Leisure Time among Disabled University Students Male with Emphasize on Physical Activity and Sport','Mehdi Kasbparast Jr, Mehdi Kohandel, Mahvash Noorbakhsh and Abbas Khodayari','4 Survey of Leisure Time among Disabled University Students Male with Emphasize on Physical Activity and Sport KASBPARAST JR. MEHDI.pdf','',1,'This study tries to investigate the leisure time among disabled students that they study at University. It is a descriptive study using data obtained from the results of the following answers to the questions in the questionnaire; to evaluate the status of the disabled people is a nationwide Leisure Islamic Azad University. The method of this study was that the questionnaire was distributed among students with disabilities and analyzed the obtained data. The results showed that the leisure time situation among disabled students is not good. Also showed that, disabled students have considerable leisure time, but sport a special place among the group does not fill the leisure time. Most of the leisure time among most of disabled students is between 14 to 16 hours a week approximately. They interested to some sport activity that the, soccer is the most popular sport among disabled students. Also there are number of problems about leisure time for them the main problem for the most efficie','-','This study tries to investigate the leisure time among disabled students that they study at University. It is a descriptive study using data obtained from the results of the following answers to the questions in the questionnaire; to evaluate the status of the disabled people is a nationwide Leisure Islamic Azad University. The method of this study was that the questionnaire was distributed among students with disabilities and analyzed the obtained data. The results showed that the leisure time situation among disabled students is not good. Also showed that, disabled students have considerable leisure time, but sport a special place among the group does not fill the leisure time. Most of the leisure time among most of disabled students is between 14 to 16 hours a week approximately. They interested to some sport activity that the, soccer is the most popular sport among disabled students. Also there are number of problems about leisure time for them the main problem for the most efficie','Disability affects hundreds of millions of people all over the world. According to the World Health Organization (WHO), around 10% of the total world\'s population, roughly 650 million people, live with a disability. Most of these people do not have access to health, rehabilitation, social support, income programs, education, leisure, and employment, among others. The majority of young people with physical disabilities1 experience restrictions in their daily functioning due to conditions that are present from birth. With a prevalence of 2.5 per 1000 live births Cerebral Palsy (CP) is the most common cause of physical disability. Other possible causes of physical disability in children are juvenile idiopathic arthritis, spina bifida and neuromuscular diseases. All of these diagnoses have in common that they cause functional limitations in daily life. Because of these functional limitations the course of development of children with a physical disability is different from that of their ty','Mehdi Kasbparast Jr, Mehdi Kohandel, Mahvash Noorbakhsh and Abbas Khodayari (2015). Survey of Leisure Time among Disabled University Students Male with Emphasize on Physical Activity and Sport , Biological Forum â€“ An International Journal 7(2): 13-17. '),(3915,'118','Effect of Eight-week Exercise in Water on Static and Dynamic Balance, Gait Parameters and Lower Extremity Strength among Elderly Women between 60 and 72 years old','Mirzaeian Elham, Kazemzadeh Yaser and Sokhanguei Yahya','5 Effect of Eight-week Exercise in Water on Static and Dynamic Balance, Gait Parameters and Lower Extremity Strength among Elderly Women between 60 and 72 years old KAZEMZADEH YASER.pdf','',1,'The present study aimed to evaluate the effect of eight-week exercise in water on balance, lower extremity strength among elderly women. This was a quasi-experimental study with pretest-posttest in both control and experimental groups. The statistical population consisted of healthy elderly women in a geriatric center in Khorramabad City. In this study, 30 disabled elderly women between 60 and 72 years old were selected using a convenience sampling method and were randomly assigned to two homogeneous experimental and control groups. Prior to the exercise protocol, static and dynamic balance as well as lower extremity strength of the participants were measured and evaluated using standing stork test, timed get up and go test and 30-second chair stand test. The experimental group performed aqueous exercises (including balance and strength exercises) for eight weeks (three sessions per week). The control group did not perform any exercise during the study. Finally, the participants were r','Balance, Elderly, Exercise in water, Strength, Women','The present study aimed to evaluate the effect of eight-week exercise in water on balance, lower extremity strength among elderly women. This was a quasi-experimental study with pretest-posttest in both control and experimental groups. The statistical population consisted of healthy elderly women in a geriatric center in Khorramabad City. In this study, 30 disabled elderly women between 60 and 72 years old were selected using a convenience sampling method and were randomly assigned to two homogeneous experimental and control groups. Prior to the exercise protocol, static and dynamic balance as well as lower extremity strength of the participants were measured and evaluated using standing stork test, timed get up and go test and 30-second chair stand test. The experimental group performed aqueous exercises (including balance and strength exercises) for eight weeks (three sessions per week). The control group did not perform any exercise during the study. Finally, the participants were r','Elderly refers to age-related biological overall changes over time, which is not due to environmental factors or disease. Elderly is irreversible and inevitable (Nagy et al., 2007). Balance control requires participation in the three areas of information processing by visual senses, atrial senses vestibular senses and sensory body system, central integration of the brain and motor response. Thus, any failure in the system can put the individual at the risk of falling down. Decreased balance (imbalance) is due to inactivity and severe reduction in muscular strength. Studies have reported that physical activity can improve posture control and reduce falls (Hughes and Frontera 2001). \r\nIn another study, the scholars showed that muscular weakness in the hip abductors, extensors and knee flexors and dorsey flexion at ankle are associated with the risk of falls. In addition, the strength or the ability to build muscle is effective in establishing balance. As the individual grows older, he','Mirzaeian Elham, Kazemzadeh Yaser and Sokhanguei Yahya (2015). Effect of Eight-week Exercise in Water on Static and Dynamic Balance, Gait Parameters and Lower Extremity Strength among Elderly Women between 60 and 72 years old , Biological Forum â€“ An Int'),(3916,'118','Risk of Groundwater Contamination by Commonly used Fertilizers','Ejikeme Ugwoha, John N. Ugbebor and Amarachi Nwosu','7 Risk of Groundwater Contamination by Commonly used FertilizersJ.N. UGBEBOR.pdf','',1,'The risk of groundwater contamination by nitrate, a representative of commonly used fertilizers, was studied. Simple lysimeter experiments were conducted using sand, loam, clay and peat representing soils with varying drainage characteristics andorganic matter contents.Nitrate was introduced on the soil surface in its pellet form (pellet method) and also in water solution (liquid method) representing the different methods of fertilizer application. Rainfall was simulated until nitrate concentration in the effluent was negligible. Results obtained show that the sorption of nitrate by the soils was in the order of peat>clay>loam>sand while the transport of nitrate through the soils was in the order of sand>loam>clay>peat. Both the sorption coefficients and retardation factor of the soils were in the order of peat (0.46 and 1.88L/kg)>clay (0.26 and 1.56L/kg)>loam (0.07 and 1.19L/kg)>sand (0.02 and 1.09L/kg) for the liquid method, and clay (0.32 and 1.70L/kg)>loam (0.19 and 1.53L/kg)>sand ','Groundwater contamination; Fertilizer; Nitrate; Lysimeter experiment; Transport; Sorption. ','Groundwater contamination by commonly used fertilizers, represented by nitrate, has been investigated. The study was necessitated by theincreasing use of fertilizers due to soil infertility and rise in population, and the health hazards and environmental risk fertilizers pose when found in drinking water. From the results obtained, it can be concluded that the risk of groundwater contamination by nitrate is likely to be in the order of sand (well-drained)> loam (fairly-drained)>clay (poorly-drained)>peat (SOM-rich) regardless the method of fertilizer application. This is because nitrate was leached as follows: sand (49.99 mg/L), loam (44.17 mg/L), clay (30.24 mg/L) and peat (22.95 mg/L) using liquid method, while it was sand (42.32 mg/L), loam (33.96 mg/L) and clay (26.99 mg/L) using pellet method. However, sorption of nitrate in the soil was in the order of peat (10.57 mg/L)>clay (7.77 mg/L)>loam (2.97 mg/L)>sand (1.11 mg/L) for liquid method and clay (8.61mg/L)>loam (6.56 mg/L)>sand ','Groundwater contamination is one of the biggest environmental problems, and nitrate from fertilizers is among the most common and widespread contaminants in groundwater (Zhang et al., 1996; Canter, 1997). Fertilizer application in soils has become a common practice due to soil infertility and increase in population. Groundwater is a major source of drinking water and when contaminated with nitrate might be unsuitable for drinking. The short term health effect of having excessive nitrate in drinking water is the occurrence of methemoglobinemia, also known as blue baby syndrome, which is a blood disorder that prevents the blood from delivering oxygen effectively to different parts of the body, especially in infants (Spalding and Exner, 1993; Canter, 1997; NECI, 2000). On the long term, excess nitrate has the potential to result in increased starchy deposits and hemorrhaging of the spleen. A potential cancer risk from nitrate in water and food has been reported (US EPA,','Ejikeme Ugwoha, John N. Ugbebor and Amarachi Nwosu (2015) . Risk of Groundwater Contamination by Commonly used Fertilizers , Biological Forum â€“ An International Journal 7(2): 29-35. '),(3917,'118','The Response of Dragon head (Dracocephalum moldavica L.) plant to Sowing Date and Planting Density','Vahid Abdossi, Hossein Mohammadi, Seyyed Hossein Hashemian Ahmadi* and Amin Hadipanah','8 The Response of Dragon head _Dracocephalum moldavica L._ plant to Sowing Date and Planting DensitySEYYED HOSSEIN HASHEMIAN AHMADI @ HOSSEIN.pdf','',1,'Dragonhead (Dracocephalum moldavica L.) is an annual, herbaceous plant belongs the family Lamiaceae. In order to study the effects of sowing date and density on essential oil content and some morphological characteristics of dragonhead, a field experiment was conducted in Sari Agricultural Sciences and Natural Resources university by using of split-plot design in the base of randomized complete blocks with three replications in 2011. Which has been in three sowing dates (12 of June, 5 of July and 17 of July) as main factors and three planting density levels (30 Ã— 10, 30 Ã— 20 and 30 Ã— 30cm). The results of the analysis of variance indicated that sowing date had significant effect on plant height, oil percentage and oil yield but planting density had significant effect only on the fresh herbage and dry herbage. Results of mean comparisons revealed that the highest fresh herbage weight (7374.7 kg) and the highest oil yield (1.197 kg) were obtained at the second sowing date (July 5). Th','(Dracocephalum moldavica L.), Sowing date, planting density, essential oil.','Evaluate the quantity outcomes of the essential oil showed that to achieve the highest level of essential oils, its better to use this plant in summer cultivation, weather conditions of Sari city of Mazandaran province in north of Iran, atthe first sowing date, and a planting density of 30cm. For achieve to better quantity and quality of the essential oil of dragonhead, the sowing of Deracocephalum moldavica L. plant in early times will be better than these dates that used in this investigation.','Dragonhead with scientific name (Dracocephalum moldavica L.) is an annual herbaceous, some times biennial, which is aromatic, with achromo some number of 2n = 2x = 10, and belonging to the mint family (Lamiaceae). There are 45 species of herbaceous and shrub\'s dragonhead in the world and there are 8 species of annual and perennial herbaceous and fragrant in Iran which 3 of them are endemic in Iran (Mirheidar, 1994; Mozafarian, 1996).The origin of this plant is reported from southern Siberia and the Himalaya (Omidbeigi, 2005; Galambosi et al., 1989) and naturally grows in temperate Zones of Europe & Asia (Galambosi & Holmes, 1989; Domokos et al., 1994).\r\nIn the study of Abd-El-Baky & El-Baroty (2007) on the dragonhead they found that 44 combination of essential oils was obtained which consist 97.18% of essential oil and 90% of them was combined with oxygenated monoterpenes and consisted less than one percent of the weight of the plant which include compounds such as: gerannyl acetate,','Vahid Abdossi, Hossein Mohammadi, Seyyed Hossein Hashemian Ahmadi* and Amin Hadipanah (2015) . The Response of Dragon head (Dracocephalum moldavica L.) plant to Sowing Date and Planting Density Biological Forum â€“ An International Journal 7(2): 36-42'),(3918,'118','Genotypic Variation and Heritability of Antioxidant related Traits in Wheat Landraces of Iran','Ali Vosough*, Roza Ghouchani and Armin Saed-Moucheshi','9 Genotypic Variation and Heritability of Antioxidant related Traits in Wheat Landraces of IranALI VOSOUGH AND ARMIN SAED-MOUCHESHI.pdf','',1,'In respect to the importance of genetic variation and resolution of population structure for crop improvement, this study were carried out to investigate the interrelationships of biochemical traits and the extent of genetic variation in wheat landrace varieties. The research work was conducted at the agricultural research station of Razi University, Kermanshah, Iran in 2013-2014 growing season. Twenty Iranian landraces of bread wheat (Triticum aestivum L.) were cultivated in a randomized complete block design with three replications. Biochemical and antioxidant related traits such as superoxide dismutase activity, peroxide activity, catalase activity, ascorbic peroxide activity, proline content, carotenoid content, hydrogen peroxide, and malondialdehyde content were measured in landraces. The overall results showed a high genotypic variation for enzymatic antioxidant activity, and also high heritability for all measured parameters. These results showed that screening program for obtai','-','In respect to the importance of genetic variation and resolution of population structure for crop improvement, this study were carried out to investigate the interrelationships of biochemical traits and the extent of genetic variation in wheat landrace varieties. The research work was conducted at the agricultural research station of Razi University, Kermanshah, Iran in 2013-2014 growing season. Twenty Iranian landraces of bread wheat (Triticum aestivum L.) were cultivated in a randomized complete block design with three replications. Biochemical and antioxidant related traits such as superoxide dismutase activity, peroxide activity, catalase activity, ascorbic peroxide activity, proline content, carotenoid content, hydrogen peroxide, and malondialdehyde content were measured in landraces. The overall results showed a high genotypic variation for enzymatic antioxidant activity, and also high heritability for all measured parameters. These results showed that screening program for obtai','Growing population in developing countries accompanied with high food consumption lead to high global demand on food. On the other hand, massive using of bred lines or synthetic cultivars results in germplasm uniformity and consequently crop vulnerability against biotic and abiotic stresses(STAT 2010). Expanding genetic diversity guarantees feeding world population and crop germplasm against adverse effects of environmental stresses. Variations in crop germplasms also increase the chance of finding high yielding plants for cultivation. Screening various germplasms is the first step of a basic program for selection of candidate genotypes for cultivation under targeted regions. One of the rich genetic resources are landrace varieties harboring valuable genes against adverse effects of biotic and abiotic stresses (Zeven 1998). A landrace is a local variety of a domesticated plant species which has developed largely by natural processes, by adaptation to the natural and cultural environmen','Ali Vosough*, Roza Ghouchani and Armin Saed-Moucheshi (2015). Genotypic Variation and Heritability of Antioxidant related Traits in Wheat Landraces of Iran . Biological Forum â€“ An International Journal 7(2): 43-47. '),(3919,'118','The Investigation and Analysis of the Required Management Skills in Using Pesticides in Farms (A Case Study in West Azerbaijan Province)','Maryam Sadeghi, Soleiman Rasouliazar and Nouraldin Shayesteh','10 The Investigation and Analysis of the Required Management Skills in Using Pesticides in Farms _A Case Study in West Azerbaijan Province_ MARYAM SADEGHI.pdf','',1,'The present study was conducted with the aim of investigating and analyzing the management skills in using pesticides in farmlands. This research was a qualitative one due to the description of the research variables. Also, regarding the data collection procedure, it was a fieldwork research. The sample of this study involved all of the staffs of Agriculture Organization in West Azerbaijan Province (N= 1900). The number of the subjects of the sample was calculated to 320 through Cochran formula. A questionnaire, whose validity was confirmed by some experts in the field and the professors, was used to collect the data. The credibility of the questionnaire was calculated 0.89% through the calculation of Cronbachalpha. According to the results of the statistical analysis, it was revealed that factors (the skills of using methods and technologies of organic agriculture, informing skills, farming skills, and production skills) involved 51.46% of the total variance and played crucial roles i','Factorial analysis, pesticides, skills, West Azerbaijan Province','Regarding the nature of the constituent variables such as (change in the time of cultivation and harvest, making the lands fallow, animal grazing, combined cultivation, biologic control, mulching, cutting and transplanting, waterlogged soil, and using compost, livestock, and herbal compost, and household and industrial waste), the first factor was called the factor of the skills of using methods and technologies of organic agriculture. This factor involved the highest percentage of the variance (12.44). Organic agriculture has been attended as a type of sustainable agriculture and one of the strategies of reducing the environmental problems and a way to achieve the stable development of the agriculture. It has introduced methods and technologies in accordance with the principles of sustainable agriculture to decrease the environmental consequences of the common agriculture. The development of these methods and technologies is one of the important goals of agricultural policies around t','Nowadays, the world has faced with the problem of population growth. One of the consequences of this problem is food shortage. The supply of the food of this growing population is related to the agriculture sector. The growth of population has caused uncontrolled entry of chemical fertilizers, pesticides, hormone products, and other dangerous factors to the environment so that this sector can respond the growing demand for food. However, this increase in the production has always had various environmental and social problems such as the pollution of water source, the continuation of the economic forces on the farmers, and lack of trust in the existence of appropriate markets. Thus, over the recent decades, due to the growing worries about the food quality, food health, people\'s health, and the destruction of the natural resources, sustainable agriculture has been attended (Pour Atashi and Shabanali, 2009). \r\nOver the centuries, agriculture has changed very much and humans have been the','Maryam Sadeghi, Soleiman Rasouliazar and Nouraldin Shayesteh (2015) . The Investigation and Analysis of the Required Management Skills in Using Pesticides in Farms (A Case Study in West Azerbaijan Province), Biological Forum â€“ An International Journal '),(3920,'118','Monitoring and Forecasting the land use Change using HEC-HMS model and Remote Sensing Techniques GIS\r\n (Case Study: Ardabil 1984-2024)\r\n','Amin Ahmadzadeh, Baharak Motamedvaziri and Abolfazl Moeini','12 Monitoring and Forecasting the land use Change using HEC-HMS model and Remote Sensing Techniques GISAMIN AHMADZADEH.pdf','',1,'Land use change and an increase in impervious surfaces due to increased residential area, is one of the main causes of floods. Since the city of Ardabil, like other cities in recent years were faced with increasing population, we see substantial changes in land use, in this city. This study sought to change the land border of the city of Ardabil during 2014-1984 and then anticipated changes by the year 2024. To anticipate this trend by the year 2024, a combination of Markov chains and automated cells have been used. In addition to investigate the changes in land use and determine its impact on the flooding area using satellite images, maps of land use related to the years 1984,1994,2004,2014As well as changes in population between the years 1984 to 2014 were analyzed that The results of this study represents an increase of a 1.5 times of population, which is mainly caused by human activity Including the expansion of settlements and land built on agricultural land around the city. Then','land use, urban floods, Markov chains, automated cell, HEC-HMS, Ardebil watershed ','Land is the most important element in urban development. Hence control and how to use it and calculate the real needs of the city In order to meet various users in the present, extend and implementation of numbers and quantities obtained will be effective in solving the problem of land, housing and proper growth of the city (Khakpur et al, 2007: p. 47). Considering that growth in Iran, growth control and urban development policy (master plans circumlocution) is done by government The most important state policy in the field are distribution of land, increasing density in existing construction, performing project preparation And in relation to housing policies for society we can name the urban land, housing policy support, social housing, mass-housing, downsizing, apartments and rental housing policy (Pour-Mohammadi, 1993: p. 134). Forecasts carried out in relation to Ardebil and it should be noted that over the next 10 years 48,000 people will be added to the population of the city of ','One of the main factors in the torrential regime change in catchment areas, is Changing land use in the watershed. Land use changes, have significant impact on the quantity and quality of runoff from the catchment areas (Roghani et al, 2003). In urban watersheds, on smooth, impervious surfaces that are made by humans, high-speed flooding occurs; therefore, getting a city mode of natural catchment areas, have a negative impact on performance and the increase in volume and intensity of watershed runoff and cause flood the downstream regions (Borumand Nasab, 1381). In parallel with the development of cities, impermeable surfaces such as roofs, streets, sidewalks, parking lots and runways, replacing the natural and permeable land and precipitations which have been influential in the soil and cause vegetation growth, because of the expansion of impermeable surfaces, changed into urban floods, causing damage to buildings and facilities and Water logging in city pathways (Jens and McPherson, ','Amin Ahmadzadeh, Baharak Motamedvaziri and Abolfazl Moeini (2015). Monitoring and Forecasting the land use Change using HEC-HMS model and Remote Sensing Techniques GIS (Case Study: Ardabil 1984-2024) , Biological Forum â€“ An International Journal 7(2):'),(3921,'118','Antimicrobial Effect of Spearmint and Dill oils on Yeast Kluyveromyces marxianus (K. marxianus) in Iranian Doogh','Maryam Najafian, Hiva Karimi and Nazanin Zand ','13 Antimicrobial Effect of Spearmint and Dill oils on Yeast Kluyveromyces marxianus _K. marxianus_ in Iranian DooghMARYAM NAJAFIAN.pdf','',1,'Plant oils have many applications in food technology and antimicrobial property on a wide range of microorganisms including bacteria, yeasts, and molds. In this research, antimicrobial effect of spearmint and dill oil (in amounts of 0.1, 0.25, 0.5, 1 and 3%) has been studied on Yeast Kluyveromyces marxianus as one of the factors causing pollution and corruption in Iranian doogh helded in 4 and 15Â°C within 30 days. Results showed that oil of both plants spearmint and dill have Inhibitory effect on Yeast Kluyveromyces marxianus (p<0.01) so that the number of yeast in doogh containing the top (0.5%) of dill oil after helding in 4 and 15Â°C within 30 days decreased 3.5 and 4.4 log-periodic cycles, respectively, while such result was achieved for dooghs containing spearmint oil ,in concentration up to 1% (1 and 2%) indicating that the effect of dill oil is more that the one of spearmint. Results of means comparison showed that the effect of oils in reducing the number of yeasts by increasi','Natural preservatives, Kluyveromyces marxianus, Dill oil, Iranian doogh, Spearmint oil.','Asking consumers to less use of synthetic preservatives has been led to the research and applying of the natural compounds with antimicrobial activity. Plant essential oils known as the natural compounds are widely used in the food products and have antimicrobial property on the broad range of microorganisms. In this study, the antimicrobial effect of spearmint and dill oils has been investigated in vitro on yeast Kluyveromyces marxianus as one of the factor causing pollution and corruption in some dairy products such as Iranian doogh. The results showed that a positive and significant impact of the essential oils both plants in reducing yeast Kluyveromyces marxianus in Iranian doogh during the storage time at 4 and 15 Â°C. Also, according to results the effect of essential oils in the higher temperature was better than the refrigerator temperature. The effect of dill oil in reducing log-periodic cycle of yeast during the maintenance time was better and further than spearmint oil. In f','Doogh is a dairy, fermentative, and acidic beverage, and Iran\'s native product produced by diluting the yogurt with the addition of water and salt or through direct fermentation of milk, and among the exciting drinks in the market has a special place because of the safety features. Now, its production is done both industrially and traditionally, and nutritional aspects of one can be improved by using probiotic bacteria and various additives such as essential oils and fibers. Increase of nutritive vitamins and metabolites, improvement of calcium absorption, and more digestibility than raw milk are the nutritional properties of doogh (Jakobsena et al.,1996).In the last decade along with the government\'s nutritional policy to replace the doogh instead of industrial carbonated drinks, its industrial production spread and have been largely welcomed by the people so that according to the published statistics by the bureau of statistics and information technology of ministry of agriculture ji','Maryam Najafian, Hiva Karimi and Nazanin Zand (2015). Antimicrobial Effect of Spearmint and Dill oils on Yeast Kluyveromyces marxianus (K. marxianus) in Iranian Doogh , Biological Forum â€“ An International Journal 7(2): 69-74. '),(3922,'118','Nitrate Removal of the Agricultural Lands Drainage Water by Columns of the Organic and Inorganic Materials','Hadi Radnezhad, Maryam Foroughi Abari and Masoumeh Sadeghi','14 Nitrate Removal of the Agricultural Lands Drainage Water by Columns of the Organic and Inorganic MaterialsHADI RADNEZHAD.pdf','',1,'This study have investigated the performance of the Sandstone- Sand filters with organic and inorganic materials to reduce the nitrate concentration and electrical conductivity (EC) of agricultural land drainage water, such as poultry manure drainage water, with 10 treatments in three replications. The treatments were in the polyethylene tubes with 62 cm diameter and 100 cm height. The height of absorbent material was considered 20 cm in each column; this height was divided in equal parts based on the number of materials of each column. A solution with EC of 20 ds/m and nitrate concentration of 80 mg /L was added to treatments in 5-step. The outputs during the first two hours, third two hours and fifth two hours were collected and transferred to the laboratory to determine the qualitative and quantitative characteristics. The treatments showed high ability to reduce nitrate concentrations and salinity. The nitrate concentration decreased from 80 mg/l to 20-50 mg/l in drainage water of ','Barley straw, Filter; Nitrate remove, Salinity, Sandstone - Sand, Sawdust, Zeolite','In many countries, public concern over the deterioration of groundwater quality from nitrate contamination has grown significantly in recent years. \r\n \r\n\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\n Radnezhad, Abari and Sadeghi 84\r\n \r\nThis concern has focused increasingly on anthropogenic sources as the potential cause of the problem. Evidence indicates that the nitrate (NO3) levels routinely exceed the maximum contaminant level (MCL) of 10 mg/l NO3-N in many aquifer systems that underlie agriculture-dominated watersheds. The analysis in this study was indicative of high performance treatments to reduce nitrate and salinity of agricultural drainage water. The treatments reduced the nitrate concentration of 80 mg/ L to 50 to 20 mg/ L in the output water. In other words, the nitrate removal efficiency was 43 to 78% by the treatments. Drainage water salinity decreased from 20 dS /m to the 7 to 10 d','Nitrogen (N) is an essential input for the sustainability of agriculture (Shrestha and Ladha, 2002; SchrÃ¶der et al., 2004). The nitrate, largely derived from agricultural activity, is considered the most ubiquitous ground water contaminant worldwide (Spalding and Exner 1993). The nitrate is soluble and negatively charged and thus has a high mobility and potential for loss from the unsaturated zone by leaching (DeSimone and Howes, 1998; Chowdary et al., 2005). Many studies showed high correlation and association between agriculture and nitrate concentration in groundwater (Ling and El-Kadi, 1998; Shrestha and Ladha, 2002; Jordan and Smith, 2005). \r\nnitrate-contamination of groundwater used for drinking is a health hazard due to harmful effects of nitrate (e.g. asphyxia and methemoglobinemia of infants) including the increased risk of cancer development (Shuval and Gruener1977; Weisenburger et al. 1991; Crespi et al. 1991). The World Health Organization recommends that drinking water sh','Hadi Radnezhad, Maryam Foroughi Abari and Masoumeh Sadeghi (2015). Nitrate Removal of the Agricultural Lands Drainage Water by Columns of the Organic and Inorganic Materials , Biological Forum â€“ An International Journal 7(2): 75-85. '),(3923,'118','Evaluation of Secondary Metabolites Contents in different explants of Galbanum Medicinal plant in vitro culture','Omid Nematolahi, Forough Mortazaeinezhad and Hadi Radnezhad','15 Evaluation of Secondary Metabolites Contents in different explants of Galbanum Medicinal plant in vitro cultureFOROGH MORTAZAEINEZHAD.pdf','',1,'Galbanum (Ferula gummosa) is a perninal plant belonging to apiaceae family and one of the most valuable medical plants containing secondary metabolites that are widely used in food, pharmacy and cosmetic industries. Its essential oil contains terpenoid hydrocarbons such as Î±-pinene, Î²-pinene, Î”-3karen, myrceneandsesquiterpene alcohols. The objectives of the present study were the optimization of galbanumtissue culture to produce Î±-pinene, investigating the secondary metabolites in the embryos and callus of different explants, and comparing these compounds with secondary metabolites of plants from natural pastures. After disinfection of seeds and embryos culture in the 1/4MS medium with BA hormone, explants were prepared from different parts of the plant. Then, explants were placed in MS mediums with different levels of BA (2 mg/l) and NAA (10 mg/l). Finally, secondary metabolites were analyzed by gas chromatograph connected to a mass spectrometer (GC/MS) to assess the amount and ty','Galbanum. Embryo culture, Secondary metabolites, terpenoids, GC/MS.','Galbanum (Ferula gummosa) is a perninal plant belonging to apiaceae family and one of the most valuable medical plants containing secondary metabolites that are widely used in food, pharmacy and cosmetic industries. Its essential oil contains terpenoid hydrocarbons such as Î±-pinene, Î²-pinene, Î”-3karen, myrceneandsesquiterpene alcohols. The objectives of the present study were the optimization of galbanumtissue culture to produce Î±-pinene, investigating the secondary metabolites in the embryos and callus of different explants, and comparing these compounds with secondary metabolites of plants from natural pastures. After disinfection of seeds and embryos culture in the 1/4MS medium with BA hormone, explants were prepared from different parts of the plant. Then, explants were placed in MS mediums with different levels of BA (2 mg/l) and NAA (10 mg/l). Finally, secondary metabolites were analyzed by gas chromatograph connected to a mass spectrometer (GC/MS) to assess the amount and ty','Despite advances in the field of chemical artifacts, we still require biological resources to produce a number of secondary metabolites like pharmaceuticals (Pezzuto, 1995). Plants, as an important source of drugs, plays a key role in the health of the world people and a lot of valuable medicinal compounds are among the secondary metabolites of plants. In some cases, the artificial synthesize of these materials are difficult or synthetic production is not economically affordable. On the other hand, plant tissue culture can provide an appropriate technique to preserve endangered species and mother genotypes as valuable sources of germplasm (Farshadfar and Bakhshi Khaniki, 2010). Increased use of plant cell and organ culture techniques has led to large-scale production of plant metabolites. Research advances in molecular biology have created new aspects in vitro culture such as increasing yield and new products from transgenic plants (Ramachandra, 2002). Biotechnology provides an opportu','Omid Nematolahi, Forough Mortazaeinezhad and Hadi Radnezhad (2015) . Evaluation of Secondary Metabolites Contents in different explants of Galbanum Medicinal plant in vitro culture , Biological Forum â€“ An International Journal 7(2): 86-93. '),(3924,'118','Evaluation of Moisture Absorption and Permeability to water vapor Cellulose Nanocomposites and its effect on Moisture, Mold and Yeast Packed with Walnuts','Najmeh Ramedani and Zahra Farokhi','16 Evaluation of Moisture Absorption and Permeability to water vapor Cellulose Nanocomposites and its effect on Moisture, Mold and Yeast Packed with WalnutsNAJMEH RAMEDANI.pdf','',1,'Given the importance of technology in improving the efficiency of Nano food packaging and storage of goods according to the walnut is an important and strategic Product for country, the effect of moisture absorption and permeability to water vapor cellulose nanocomposites on moisture and mold and yeast in packed walnuts were studied. The film was prepared based on CMS film and nanocomposite Carboxymethyl cellulose / polyvinyl alcohol-clay and characteristics such as permeability to water vapor and moisture were evaluated. The moisture results and mold and yeast in Walnut were analyzed. The results showed that the water vapor permeability was significantly reduced and the g / MhPa 0.036 control film g / mhPa 0.029 for movies with3% Nano clay concentrations decreased. The product features with 0.5 percent reduction compared to control moisture than Carboxymethyl cellulose / polyvinyl alcohol â€“ clay cover due to maintaining the nutritional value at the end of the maintenance period is s','moisture, water vapor, mold and yeast, walnut kernel, cellulose nanocomposites.','In terms of quality, carboxymethyl cellulose material is suitable for food packaging to reduce the influence of gas is water vapor. Today, the biopolymer and its nanocomposites, as well as materials that are combined with softening properties, in order to increase the flexibility of their films, are used in a wide range of food packaging. The aim of food packaging industry is preserving food in the most effective way and with minimal cost so that consumers and manufacturers have the most satisfaction and food remains secure and also to minimize environmental problems. The demand for fresh and safe food production and with minimal process is currently the most important challenges facing today\'s food packaging industry and always looking for ways to maintain the quality and safety of food packaging. Correct choice of materials and proper packaging cause preserve product quality. The use of modern methods such as the use of nanotechnology for food preservation and survival is important. ','Film or coating as a layer of polymer compounds, is placed on the food. The coating is the film that is used for packing food. They are based on natural polymers or synthetic structure with special properties. They create a barrier against the transfer of materials (water, gas and oil), preservation and transfer of food ingredients and additives and colors, flavors, prevent the growth of microorganisms on food surfaces and mechanical protection. Functional properties of the film are very much affected by the cause of such formulations, technology, film, solvents and additives. The use of films and coatings is mainly due to their potential to provide compounds of dam\'s moisture, oxygen, taste and smell, for food quality and increase in shelf life. So permeability of the film should be set for such cases. \r\nPermeability characteristics that influence the extent to which a substance is dissolved And then spreads with a thrust of the film related to the influence of the concentration diffe','Najmeh Ramedani and Zahra Farokhi (2015) . Evaluation of Moisture Absorption and Permeability to water vapor Cellulose Nanocomposites and its effect on Moisture, Mold and Yeast Packed with Walnuts , Biological Forum â€“ An International Journal 7(2): 94-'),(3925,'118','Assessing the Environmental risk in using Wastewater of municipal sewage treatment plant in agricultural irrigation','Parisa Jabraeel Nejad and Ebrahim Fataei','18 Assessing the Environmental risk in using Wastewater of municipal sewage treatment plant in agricultural irrigation EBRAHIM FATAEI.pdf','',1,'The use of refined municipal sewage for agricultural irrigation in addition to saving fresh water, Because of fertilizer materials in wastewater can be a good source of nutrients for plants and strengthening field. But in case of high levels of physicochemical and biological sewage compounds it cause problems for consumers of agricultural products. In this study to determine the risk factors effective in the study of municipal sewage AHP index is used. The parameters that were considered for this study include: Total coliform, gastrointestinal coliform, parasites, lead, copper, cadmium, zinc, total dissolved solids, nitrate, phosphate, sodium, potassium, calcium, magnesium, sulfate, chloride and conductivity. Given that each factor has a specific standard for this reason, a ratio of 1 to 3 Due to the standard amount was allocated to each factor, So that for each parameter based on the permissible limit value of the EPA standard three domains of acceptable, convenient and low were','Risk assessment, Waste water reuse, treated wastewater, AHP.','Use of Wastewater of municipal sewage treatment plant for irrigation of crops requires accurate analysis. Determine the factors influencing the health risks of using wastewater in agricultural production for humans and plants are very difficult. But today, due to lack of water and the unavailability of it, urban wastewater for agriculture is being used in developing countries. However determining the level of risk factors in soil quality and products is essential. So that if any of the factors in the production of agricultural products violates the standard, indicates poor condition and unsuitable sewage for using in agriculture.\r\n \r\n\r\nIn this study the risk level of 18 parameters in urban wastewater treatment plant to be used in agricultural production in Ardebil region was determined that The 18 factors including total coliform, coliform gastrointestinal, parasites, lead, copper, cadmium, zinc, total dissolved solids, nitrate, phosphate, sodium, potassium, calcium, magnesium, sulf','Due to the increasing population and expanding human activities in various sectors, per capita consumption of water has increased sharply. The use of unconventional water including treatment plant wastewater in various sectors especially in the agricultural sector, which accounted for the majority of water use, achieves particular importance (Danesh and Alizadeh, 2012). Iran in recent years due to limited water resources, population growth, urbanization, industry and agriculture and the development and implementation of various projects and wastewater collection, Wastewater use in agriculture lands became very important and is in priority for the management of water resources planning (happiness, 1385). Sewage is one of the environment pollution factors that should be collected in a sanitary way, refined and again bring back to water cycle in nature (Abbasi, 2013). In relation to the use of wastewater in agriculture researches has been conducted in the country and abroad, Including','Parisa Jabraeel Nejad and Ebrahim Fataei (2015). Assessing the Environmental risk in using Wastewater of municipal sewage treatment plant in agricultural irrigation , Biological Forum â€“ An International Journal 7(2): 112-116. '),(3926,'118','Assessment of Waste Management in Health Centers in the city of Ardabil','Shayan Khalili Arjaqy and Ebrahim Fataei','19 Assessment of Waste Management in Health Centers in the city of Ardabil EBRAHAM FATAEI.pdf','',1,'Waste management in health centers, database and home health because of their major role in the spread of contagious diseases and environmental pollution due to storage, collection and disposal is of particular importance. This study is a cross-sectional study (cross-sectional), is to be aware of the practices of health maintenance and disposal of wastes, check Lists questionnaire was used. Check list provided in 19 health centers, 16 health centers and 65 health centers in the city of Ardabil were completed through observation and interviews. The results showed that the waste of case centers are infectious waste with 6/15 percent, medicinal and poisonous with3/0% , general waste (like home) with 79% and 1.5% of waste is sharp. After collecting waste from Imam Khomeini hospital in Ardebil city disinfecting is done by the autoclave. Based on the results obtained and the importance of separation, collection, storage and transport of hospital waste on the health of employees and customer','Waste Management of Ardabil health centers.','Finding the results obtained in this study indicate that the management of the waste produced in health centers and health bases and health home in Ardabil is an average of 92/1 per kg per that 3.0 kg of the waste is infectious, which does not have favorable conditions for the collection, storage, transportation, with \r\n\r\n\r\n\r\ndomestic waste. Use appropriate containers and colored bags is 63/30% healthy and temporary storage location is 3/25 healthy, Despite the legal obligation to use disinfecting system suitable with production capacity, especially for active centers with a high volume of medical waste, the basic measures are not taken that should be followed by the relevant and responsible organs. Providing Vehicle and using trained people are necessary. Presenting Regular programs, training, follow-up and monitoring the implementation of a public Circulars and available standards-could help to solve this problem to make.\r\n','Medical waste includes waste that with content of environmental hazardous waste, sharp waste, and the waste produced by the disease, treatment, or immunization of human beings or animals or during investigation or the hospital operations (Sadraty et al., 2007]. Health centers as the first level of government services in the city are in charge of presenting health services to the people in the pHc (primary health care) (Pilevary, 1999, Rezai, 2003). Ghahramany et al 2013 about the management of waste produced in health centers in Ardabil, reported that a major activity for the reduction, separation and recycling of waste in these centers is not done. And main produced waste with municipal waste is collected and is transferred to disposal of municipal waste (title et al., 2013). Studies of waste produced in 20 hospitals and health center in the city of Acury in Nigeria, by babatola indicated that of total waste generated, 75% of domestic waste, 25% and 5% sharp infectious winner and only','Shayan Khalili Arjaqy and Ebrahim Fataei (2015) . Assessment of Waste Management in Health Centers in the city of Ardabil , Biological Forum â€“ An International Journal 7(2): 117-120. '),(3927,'118','Assessing the impact of climate on the type of product selected using Papadakis','Seyed Mohammad Mahdi Torabi and Zahra Arabi','20 Assessing the impact of climate on the type of product selected using PapadakisZAHRA ARABI @ MANDANA.pdf','',1,'Accurate and simultaneous recognition of climatic factors and ecological phenomena requires use of a technique which is free from ambiguities and generalized concepts and is based on robust fundamentals. With more than 440 subcategories, Papadakis climatic classification which emphasizes on the role of ecological factors has the aforementioned advantage in spite of its particular complexities. In this study, daily temperature data over a period of 10 years Climate adaptation needs to select suitable crops using Papadakis. Calculation and agro-climatic analysis was performed making use of Papadakis method. In this study, data of the synoptic meteorological stations in Ardebil (daily and monthly and annual reports) were received from National Meteorological Organization. This research is descriptive statistic. Data analysis is performed using Papadakis method. Evaluation of agro-climate of the area, based on Papadakis thresholds, show that northern and central parts of the province have ','Climate, Papadakis, Ardebil province','Calculation and agro-climatic analysis was performed making use of Papadakis method. In this study, data of the synoptic meteorological stations in Ardebil (daily and monthly and annual reports) were received from National Meteorological Organization. This research is descriptive statistic. Data analysis is performed using Papadakis method. Evaluation of agro-climate of the area, based on Papadakis thresholds, show that northern and central parts of the province have similar conditions in terms of winter and summer cultivation, which means oat in winter type and cotton in summer type. Southern and eastern parts of the province have identical condition, as well; meaning corn in summer type and wheat in winter type. Study of the thermal regime for all selected stations in Ardebil Province is as follows. The either belong to continental (co) class and in terms of humidity, Khalkhal and Ardebil stations belong to belong to dry Mediterranean class and Pars Abad and Meshkin Shahr stations to','Among different factors influencing agricultural production, weather conditions is the most variables in natural environment that human is not able to control them, except in small scale with high cost. Lack of attention to capabilities of climate and traditional cultivation of agricultural Products has been resulted to low changing yield and even the destruction of crops in some years. Agro climatology assesses interaction relationship between climatic and hydorologic factors with agriculture. The aim of agro climatology is the use of climatic information in order to improve farming practices and increment the quality of agricultural products (Mohamadi, 2006). One of the basic ways for developing and progressing of country is the optimal use of land in accordance with their ecological conditions (Farjzadeh, 2002). It is necessary to determine the agricultural climatic regions in order to identify the existing problems and issues associated with climate and agriculture. Climatic classi','Seyed Mohammad Mahdi Torabi and Zahra Arabi (2015) . Assessing the impact of climate on the type of product selected using Papadakis , Biological Forum â€“ An International Journal 7(2): 121-126. '),(3928,'118','The Role of Ghrelin in Blood Pressure Reduction Induced by Exercise in Patients with CABG','Salehe Nornematolahi, Amir Rashidlamir, Mahmood Soltani, Arash Asadatniya and Leili Zeiaadini','21 The Role of Ghrelin in Blood Pressure Reduction Induced by Exercise in Patients with CABGAMIR RASHIDLAMIR @ KAMBIZ.pdf','',1,'The effect of exercise on cardiovascular function was one of the main interested topics of researchers in the field of exercise physiology in the last decade and it also is on the focus of many researchers right now. The researchers in the present study are looking for examining the potential role of exercise-induced ghrelin leakage on cardiovascular efficacy in the CABG patients. 16 CABG patients were chosen by the Available sampling method and randomly assigned in two groups of cardiac rehabilitation and control groups in the javad al-aemeh hospital. Ghrelin gene expression in lymphocytes, arterial stiffness, brachial-ankle index and the mean blood pressure were measured.\r\nThe results showed that cardiac rehabilitation was the reason of a slight increase in ghrelin gene expression, but it was not significant (p=0.185 and F=1.68). Also Brachial-ankle index that reflects the efficacy of peripheral arterial function, as a result of rehabilitation exercises showed a significant improveme','Ghrelin, Lymphocytes, Rehabilitation Training, Arterial Stiffness','It was shown that cardiac rehabilitation exercises caused a slight increase in ghrelin gene expression in CABG patients in this study, but this reduction was not significant statistically. The long-term effects of exercise on ghrelin and its metabolic effects were examined in several studies (Mager et al., 2008, Buss et al., 2014), but less studied about its cardiovascular effects. \r\nShyya and colleagues investigated the effects of moderate exercise on plasma levels of ghrelin and ghrelin without acyl ghrelin and other molecules assess the relationship between hormonal and metabolic parameters were evaluated during the exercise. In this study, healthy male (25.2 Â± 0.5) years old a period of 60 minutes at 50% of maximal oxygen uptake, their own. Plasma levels of ghrelin, without acyl ghrelin, GH, norepinephrine, epinephrine, dopamine, insulin and glucose were measured. Plasma ghrelin and ghrelin levels unchanged total. Levels of norepinephrine, epinephrine, dopamine and plasma GH incre','The effect of exercise on cardiovascular function was one of the main interested topics of researchers in the field of exercise physiology in the last decade and it also is on the focus of many researchers right now. Cardiac rehabilitation is a supervised exercise program with the overall objective of improving the quality of life. This program is designed to limit the mental and physical effects of cardiovascular diseases, reducing the risk of sudden death or re-stroke to stabilize or reverse the atherosclerosis trend and it is typically recommended to the people who have done a coronary artery bypass surgery. Cardiac rehabilitation is not only useful and effective for people with heart failure but also it is a way for all people who are suffering from of obesity, hypertension and diabetes or smokers. Researching in the field of the positive effects of cardiac rehabilitation exercises on cardiovascular function in CABG patients can map bright horizons for mortality control and quality','Salehe Nornematolahi, Amir Rashidlamir, Mahmood Soltani, Arash Asadatniya and Leili Zeiaadini (2015) . The Role of Ghrelin in Blood Pressure Reduction Induced by Exercise in Patients with CABG , Biological Forum â€“ An International Journal 7(2): 127-132.'),(3929,'118','The Clinical Success of Self-tapping and Self-drilling Orthodontic Miniscrews','Abbas Salehi Vaziri, Hamed Naseri , Mohsen Nourisari,\r\nHasanali Qaffari, Mehdi Kashaniaraqbidi and Reza Eslamiamirabadi\r\n','22 The Clinical Success of Self-tapping and Self-drilling Orthodontic MiniscrewsHAMED NASERI@FORD.pdf','',1,'Researches stated that overheating during drilling, poor primary stability caused by overdrilling, inflammation, or local disturbances could have prevented normal healing in the early period. The theory was further supported by the higher cumulative survival of mini-implant systems in the maxilla. So, the aim of the current study was to investigate the clinical success of self-tapping and self-drilling orthodontic microimplants. Of the 57 patients, 49 were women and 8 were men. Self-tapping and self-drilling microscrew were randomly located in left and right side of maxillary of patients, respectively. All patients were under local anesthesia for insertion of the mini-implants. Then patients asked to impress their feeling for pain based on pain scale from 0 to 10 based on numeric rating NRS). In the second referred, the inflammation, hyperplasia and hemorrhage monitored in all patients. The mobility was checked from the second referred and continued for 6 months after placement. Force ','Self-tapping, Self-drilling, Orthodontic microimplants','Researches stated that overheating during drilling, poor primary stability caused by overdrilling, inflammation, or local disturbances could have prevented normal healing in the early period. The theory was further supported by the higher cumulative survival of mini-implant systems in the maxilla. So, the aim of the current study was to investigate the clinical success of self-tapping and self-drilling orthodontic microimplants. Of the 57 patients, 49 were women and 8 were men. Self-tapping and self-drilling microscrew were randomly located in left and right side of maxillary of patients, respectively. All patients were under local anesthesia for insertion of the mini-implants. Then patients asked to impress their feeling for pain based on pain scale from 0 to 10 based on numeric rating NRS). In the second referred, the inflammation, hyperplasia and hemorrhage monitored in all patients. The mobility was checked from the second referred and continued for 6 months after placement. Force ','Orthodontic anchorage is defined as resistance to unwanted movement of the tooth. In the anteroposterior dimension, 3 anchorage situations are traditionally defined by the ratio of\r\nretraction to molar protraction. While moderate anchorage entails reciprocal space closure, maximum anchorage means that most of the space is closed by retraction of the incisors, and minimum anchorage means that most of the space is closed by protraction of the posterior segments. Absolute anchorage, when the anchorage parts keep on fully immobile, is occasionally desirable but is usually unreachable with traditional orthodontic mechanics. The exception is the incidence of ankylosed teeth in the anchorage part. Beneath these exceptional circumstances, forces applied to those teeth are entirely transferred to the nearby skeletal structures. This condition is occasionally named skeletal anchorage and, by the above definition could also be called absolute anchorage (Baumgaertel et al. 2008).\r\nHowever, undesir','Abbas Salehi Vaziri, Hamed Naseri , Mohsen Nourisari, Hasanali Qaffari, Mehdi Kashaniaraqbidi and Reza Eslamiamirabadi (2015). The Clinical Success of Self-tapping and Self-drilling Orthodontic Miniscrews , Biological Forum â€“ An International Journal 7'),(3930,'118','Effects of an Herbal Medicine on Relieving Disability and Pain due to Chronic Low Back Pain (LBP)','Nafiseh Hoseini Yekta, Younes Roohany, Fatemeh Emadi, Soghrat Faghihzadeh, Mohsen Naseri, Ghazaleh Heydarirad, Mahmoud Babaeian and Mohammad Reza Vaez Mahdavi','23 Effects of an Herbal Medicine on Relieving Disability and Pain due to Chronic Low Back Pain _LBP_GHAZAL RAD.pdf','',1,'Low back pain (LBP) is one of the most common health problems in the world population which has a significant effect on quality of life. Mentha longifolia which is known for its various therapeutic effects such as analgesic and anti-inflammatory, has been used as an herbal treatment in Iranian traditional medicine (ITM). Regarding the unpleasant side effects of current available medications, we aimed to evaluate the efficacy of M. longifolia on relieving pain and disability symptoms in patients suffering from LBP.','Back pain, plants, herb, traditional medicine','According to results of this study, M. longifolia could be applied for alleviating symptoms in patients with LBP.','Low back pain (LBP) is one of the most common health problems in the world population (Cassidy et al., 2005), which has a significant effect on quality of life (Hong et al., 2014). About 70-85% of general population experienced LBP in some point of their lives (Hong et al., 2014). It causes significant disability, prolonged loss of function, work absence, and treatment costs, which imposes an excessive economical burden on society (Cassidy et al., 2005; Last and Hulbert, 2009). \r\nDespite advances in medical knowledge, many cases of LBP are inadequately treated. This might be due to medication side effects, and increased numeral co-morbidities that prevent surgical interventions (Morone et al., 2008). The previous studies showed that complementary and alternative medicine (CAM) interventions were suggested for treatments of LBP in the general population (Wang et al., 2005). In the recent years, the World Health Organization of the United Nations (WHO) has revived CAM for the development','Nafiseh Hoseini Yekta, Younes Roohany, Fatemeh Emadi, Soghrat Faghihzadeh, Mohsen Naseri, Ghazaleh Heydarirad, Mahmoud Babaeian and Mohammad Reza Vaez Mahdavi (2015) . Effects of an Herbal Medicine on Relieving Disability and Pain due to Chronic Low Back '),(3931,'118','Primary Antioxidant Enzymes and Their Important Role in Oxidative Stress in Plants and Mammalian','Mohammad Behrouzi Varjovi, Mostafa Valizadeh and Ali Bandehagh','25 Primary Antioxidant Enzymes and Their Important Role in Oxidative Stress in Plants and MammalianMOHAMMAD BEHROUZI VARJOVI.pdf','',1,'Enzymatic and non-enzymatic pathways are existed within cells to eliminate reactive oxygen species. Primarily, superoxide dismutase, catalase, glutathione peroxidase and glutathione reductase have important rolls in theses pathways. Plants as well as mammalians respond to oxidative stresses by changing expression levels of these enzymes. Investigations indicate that, in most cases cells which are exposed to oxidative stresses up regulate SOD, CAT and GPx. So that they can resist against stress. Some manipulation have been conducted to artificially over-express theses primary antioxidant enzymes and the results were promising. Transformed plants are relatively resistance against stress and some extracts/agents have been introduced to reduce mammalian oxidative stress. Since high concentrations of ROS could damage cells and cause to diseases such as cancer, ischemia, and failures in immunity and endocrine functions, these results could offer a bright future, finding permanent, cheap and ','Superoxide dismutase, catalase, glutathione peroxidase, glutathione reductase, oxidative stress, plants, mammalian','Environmental stresses in plants lead to higher levels of ROS in cells. Thus cells respond to stress with changing expression levels of antioxidant enzymes. Plants which express higher levels of SOD, CAT and GPx could relatively resist against these stresses. These promising results of transgenic plants indicate that it could be possible to gain tolerant plants which could resist against higher levels of ROS production (oxidative stress). So that, it seems that genomic and proteomic approaches (e.g. genomic mapping and protein engineering) could be more successful in the future for this goal, making another green revolution.\r\nMammalian cells are exposed to oxidative stress, too. Reactive oxygen species (ROS) are known to be involved in the cell growth, differentiation, progression, and death. Low concentrations of ROS may be beneficial or even indispensable in processes such as intracellular signaling and defense against micro-organisms. Nevertheless, higher amounts of ROS play a role ','An antioxidant is a molecule that inhibits the oxidation of other molecules. Oxidation reactions can produce free radicals which leads the cell to damage or death. Antioxidants could end these chain reactions. Plants and animals maintain complex systems of multiple types of antioxidants, such as glutathione, vitamin C, vitamin A, and vitamin E as well as enzymes such as catalase, superoxide dismutase and various peroxidases. Failing of these systems could cause oxidative stress. Oxidative stress seems to play a significant role in many human diseases, including cancers and many cellular damages in plants which lowers quantity and quality of crops. Although studies suggested that antioxidant supplements improve human health, large treatments of antioxidant supplements such as beta-carotene, vitamin A, and vitamin E singly suggest that supplementation has no effect on mortality or possibly increases it (Williams et al, 2004; Frei. 2009; Bjelakovic et al, 2013) external application of som','Mohammad Behrouzi Varjovi, Mostafa Valizadeh and Ali Bandehagh (2015) . Primary Antioxidant Enzymes and Their Important Role in Oxidative Stress in Plants and Mammalian , Biological Forum â€“ An International Journal 7(2): 148-154. '),(3932,'118','Studies on Fish Affected with Epizootic Ulceric Syndrome with Special Emphasis on Parasitic Infestation-A Project Report','Ningthoukhongjam Umi Devi, Ngasepam Romen Singh and Devashish Kar','26 Studies on Fish Affected with Epizootic Ulceric Syndrome with Special Emphasis on Parasitic Infestation-A Project ReportROMEN SINGH NGASEPAM.pdf','',1,'EUS is a seasonal epizootic condition of great importance in wild and farmed freshwater and estuarine fish. EUS is also known as red spot disease (RSD), mycotic granulomatosis (MG) and ulcerative mycosis (UM). Fish is an excellent source of food. Fish constitutes almost half of the total number of vertebrates in the world. Our country occupies 9th position in terms of fresh water mega biodiversity. During our study which was conducted from January to April 2015, we had come across a total of 21 different fish species which is infected with epizootic ulcerative syndrome (EUS) belonging to 6 order, 13 family, 18 genera Four helminthes species were recorded during the investigation period like Acanthocephalan, Nematode, Trematode, and Cestodes. ','EUS, Mycotic granulomatosis, Ulcerative mycosis, Acanthocephalan, Nematode, Trematode, Cestodes. ','Epizootic ulcerative syndrome (EUS) is one of the most important diseases affecting more than 100 species of wild and cultured finfish. There are no specific control measures in fish for EUS in natural environments. Fish from infected waterways, especially those with lesions of EUS, should not be relocated to other waterways. Effective control and treatment of EUS is a major problem today, because the primary pathogen has not yet been identified. Control of EUS in large natural water bodies may not be possible. However in view of the fact that TA of water acts as a predisposing \'stress\' factor, application of lime in low alkaline water bodies, helps to control the spread of EUS. EUS today is a semi-global problem among the fresh water fishes. Unfortunately, in view of its complex infectious etiology, it is yet to be accurately defined. ','Epizootic ulcerative syndrome or EUS is an infection caused by oomycete fungi known as Aphanomyces invadans or A. piscicida Aphanomyces is a member of a group of organisms formerly commonly known as water moulds; they are currently recognized as belonging to the group of heterokonts or stramenopiles (OIE, 2006). EUS is also known by other names such as red spot disease (RSD), mycotic granulomatosis (MG), Ulcerative mycosis (UM) and in 2005 it was suggested to rename EUS as epizootic granulomatous aphanomycosis (EGA) (Baldock et al., 2005). EUS causes ugly lesions in affected fish. Lesions can range from small pinpoint red spots, haemorrhagic spots, localized swelling, localized raised areas on the body surface, protruding scales, scale loss, skin erosion, reddened areas of the skin under the scales, exposure of underlying musculature, and ulceration. Ulcers can be found over a broad area with the center of the lesions being necrotic. Lesions are observed most often in the lateral surfa','Ningthoukhongjam Umi Devi, Ngasepam Romen Singh and Devashish Kar (2015). Studies on Fish Affected with Epizootic Ulceric Syndrome with Special Emphasis on Parasitic Infestation-A Project Report , Biological Forum â€“ An International Journal 7(2): 155-16'),(3933,'118','Changes of Fatty Acid profile during Gamma Irradiation on of Rainbow Trout (Oncorhynchus mykiss) Fillet','Saeid Javan and Abbas Ali Motallebi','27 Changes of Fatty Acid profile during Gamma Irradiation on of Rainbow Trout _Oncorhynchus mykiss_ FilletSAEID JAVAN.pdf','',1,'The present study was conducted to evaluate the effect of different doses of gamma rays (0, 0.75, 1.5, 2.25, 3, 3.75 and 4.5 kGy) on fatty acids composition of Rainbow trout fillet. Irradiation of fillets was performed by gamma rays from a Co60 source. The results showed that total saturated fatty acid concentrations increased significantly (p<0.001) with increasing irradiation dose , so that the control sample and fish muscles that irradiated with 4.5 kGy had the lowest and highest amounts of total saturated fatty acids (20.454 Â± 0.011% and 19.228 Â± 0.040% , respectively). The amount of total polyunsaturated fatty acids (PUFAs) in irradiated samples were significantly lower than control sample (p<0.001) and amounts of total monounsaturated (MUFAs) were significantly higher than control samples (p<0.001). The results were indicated that the highest content of MUFAs and PUFAs were in samples irradiated with 3.75kGy (37.783Â± 0.092 %) and control samples (37.677Â± 0.104 %), respective','Effect, fillet, fatty acid, irradiation, Rainbow trout, profile.','The effects of irradiation on oxidation process of lipids are well known. The results of our study showed that the different doses of irradiation especially high doses (3-4.5 kGy) affect fatty acid composition in rainbow trout fillet. It is stated that there was relationship between irradiation dose and lipid oxidation whereas with increasing of irradiation dose, lipid oxidation will urge.','Food irradiation is a means of food preservation that has been in development since the early part of the 20th century. Irradiation as a method of meat, poultry and fish preservation has excellent potential to improve meat safety and extend the shelf life (Fu et al., 2000; Chwla et al., 2003; Jeevanandam et al., 2001; Mahrour et al., 2003; Chouliara et al., 2004, 2005 Morehouse., 2002). It is capable of improving the safety of many foods, and extending their shelf life. There has been worldwide interest in using irradiation for preservation of various foods, including fishery products (Kreuzer, 1969; Kilgen, 2001). Irradiation of food up to an overall dose of 10 kGy is accepted in several countries for commercial food processing (Lacroix & Quattara, 2000). The quality of meat is influenced by its lipid content and fatty acid composition. Fish meat is more or less susceptible to oxidative deterioration, depending on the degree of lipid saturation. Polyunsaturated fatty acids (PUFAs) ben','Saeid Javan and Abbas Ali Motallebi (2015). Changes of Fatty Acid profile during Gamma Irradiation on of Rainbow Trout (Oncorhynchus mykiss) Fillet Biological Forum â€“ An International Journal 7(2): 165-170.'),(3934,'118','Check List of Fish Species of Loktak Lake Bishnupur District ','Shomorendra Maibam, Romen Singh Ngasepam, Indira Devi Ningthoukhongjam , Bijayalakshmi Devi Chabungbam , Thoudam Ranibala and Devashish Kar','28 Check List of Fish Species of Loktak Lake Bishnupur District ROMEN SINGH NGASEPAM.pdf','',1,'Biodiversity as a concept and conservation issue is currently common concern for all. Biodiversity is the total variability within all living organisms and environmental complexes they inhabit which includes diversity of form right from molecular level through individuals, populations, communities, ecosystem, landscapes and biosphere. Manipur the â€œJewel of India or Switzerland of the Eastâ€ has peculiar features like endemic plants, animals and scenic beauties. Our Loktak Lake is one of them. The cultural and traditional aspects of Manipuris will never completed without relating to this Lake, which also witnessing the whole history of Manipuris civilization. Lake is very important in terms of its socio-economic value, environment, cultural, tourism, habitat of various plants, animals, fishes and potential natural resources etc. The Lake is only freshwater body in entire North-East India which is also commonly called as floating Lake in the world due to its floating Phumdis (heteroge','Loktak Lake, Phumdis, EUDS, Physicochemical properties, Hotspot, Biodiversity','During our investigation we had come across 48 different species of fishes under 5 order 17 family 33 genera. Out of these 28 fish species are available throughout the year and 20 fish species are available during rainy season only. A fish species called as Esomus altus (Lameithanbi or Belunpaibi in local language) is very rare and new record from India. One important finding during our research is that a fish species called as Channa punctatus (locally called as Ngamu Bogra) were disappeared during 1990s due to Epizootic Ulceric Disease Syndrome. But today this species is readily available in the Lake again.\r\nThe present fish diversity of Loktak Lake, Manipur facing very critical stage. Around 1980s onwards till now, there were massive changes on availability of fishes as declining fish production as well as fish species diversity in fresh water. Loktak Lake is not only important to the indigenous Meitei and other communities living in its catchments for their livelihood and also pla','Biodiversity is the total variability within all living organisms and environmental complexes they inhabit which includes diversity of form right from molecular level through individuals, populations, communities, ecosystem, landscapes and biosphere. Manipur the â€œJewel of India or Switzerland of the Eastâ€ has peculiar features like endemic plants, animals and scenic beauties. Our Loktak Lake is one of them. The state of Manipur having an area of 22,327 square km, occupies \r\n\r\nthe eastern frontier of India. The major portion of the state consists of ranges of hills. In the centre of the state lies the oval-shaped â€œImphal Valleyâ€ which occupies an area of about 1545 km. The Loktak Lake is the largest natural wetland (commonly called Loktak Lake) in eastern India is located about 48 km from Imphal in Manipur state. Loktak Lake is the largest freshwater Lake in the natural freshwater Lake in northeastern region of India and also known for its charming beauty. \r\nIt is considered to ','Shomorendra Maibam, Romen Singh Ngasepam, Indira Devi Ningthoukhongjam , Bijayalakshmi Devi Chabungbam , Thoudam Ranibala and Devashish Kar (2015). Check List of Fish Species of Loktak Lake Bishnupur District , Biological Forum â€“ An International Journa'),(3935,'112','Aluminium Stress Tolerance in Legumes under Acidic Soils: Mechanisms and Methods â€“ A Review','Mayurakshee Mahanta, Noren Singh Konjengbam*, Andrean Allwin Lyngdoh and Reginah Pheirim','271 Aluminium Stress Tolerance in Legumes under Acidic Soils Mechanisms and Methods â€“ A Review Noren Singh Konjengbam.pdf','',1,'Being one of the most abundant elements in earthâ€™s crust, Aluminium (Al) is ubiquitously present in the soil, mostly in unavailable forms at neutral or near neutral soil pH. However, under acidic soil conditions, when pH drops below 5, Al solubilizes into phytotoxic forms, adversely affecting root growth, vigor and productivity of plants, causing 25â€“80% yield reduction in cultivated crops. Legumes are an important component of human diet and an essential component of the ecosystem. Being highly sensitive to soil acidity, legumes are highly affected by Al toxicity, which is a major constraint for legumes production in acidic soils. Acidic soils predominate the tropical and subtropical regions of the world. In order to extend legume production in acidic soils, there arises a need to understand Al toxicity and develop suitable methods for combating Al toxicity stress. Thus, the present paper reviews Al toxicity-its nature and tolerance mechanisms, screening methods, genetics and breed','Al toxicity, legumes, root re-growth, organic acids, inheritance, mapping.','Al toxicity is one of the prime limitations of crop production in acidic soils, especially at pH below 5.0 where Al becomes phytotoxic and inhibits plant root growth. In addition to its adverse effect in the plant root system, Al also leads to disruptions in cellular redox homeostasis, oxidative stress, increased ROS production, lipid peroxidation and nutrient imbalances. Al induced accumulation of callose in the root tips and inhibition of root growth are used as important biomarkers for screening Al tolerance in plants cultured under hydroponics. Plants have evolved numerous mechanisms to tolerate Al toxicity stress, most importantly the secretion of organic acids like malate, citrate, oxalate etc., which chelates the Al ions externally in the rhizosphere, or internally in the cytosol of the plants, thus preventing its toxic effects on the plants. High level of genetic variability has been observed for Al tolerance in legumes and QTLs identified for Al tolerance in major legumes may ','INTRODUCTION\r\nLegumes particularly pulses are an essential component of human diet, contributing significant amounts of protein in addition to carbohydrates, and several vitamins and minerals. Through their unique property of fixing atmospheric nitrogenby the process of biological nitrogen fixation in symbiotic association with Rhizobium bacteria, legumes improve soil fertility and the functioning of ecosystems, thus also forming an important component of different cropping systems. With more than 78.3 million, ha of land planted to legumes, these species provide over 35% of the worldâ€™s protein intake (Werner and Newton 2005). India is the largest producer of pulses in the world, with around 25% share in the global production, contributing around 19.3 million tonnes (ESI, 2015) but with a very low average productivity of 764 kg/ha (Pooniya et al. 2015). \r\nAcid soils, also known as ultisols or oxisols, classified by a pH of 5.5 or lower are widely distributed in the tropical and subtr','Mayurakshee Mahanta, Noren Singh Konjengbam, Andrean Allwin Lyngdoh and Reginah Pheirim (2022). Aluminium Stress Tolerance in Legumes under Acidic Soils: Mechanisms and Methods â€“ A Review. Biological Forum â€“ An International Journal, 14(1): 1538-1548.'),(3936,'112','Assessment of Strength, Weakness, Opportunities and Challenges among the beneficiaries in MGNREGA works in Tamil Nadu','Balasubramaniam P., Sriram N., Mohanraj V.*, Shanjeevika V. and Kanimozhi R.','272 Assessment of Strength, Weakness, Opportunities and Challenges among the beneficiaries in MGNREGA works in Tamil Nadu Balasubramaniam P.pdf','',1,'In rural areas, major livelihood activities are irregular mainly due to seasonal fluctuations in agriculture and allied activities. More than 60 per cent of total workforce in the country derives their livelihood from agriculture. The high dependency on agriculture has caused decrease in per capita household income from farm sector and use of labour-saving technologies (Mechanization) in agricultural production has resulted in lesser employment in the rural areas and causes poverty among the rural masses. MGNREGA is the largest work guarantee programme in the world with the primary objective of guaranteeing 100 days of wage employment per year to rural households. For this study Salem district were purposively selected. In this district Panamarathupatty block has been selected with a sample size of 200 beneficiaries, the Probability sampling method was used for the selection of villages. One of the most effective methods of PRA i.e., preferential ranking technique was used in this st','Livelihood, MGNREGA, Salem, SWOC, Worksite.','It may be concluded that beneficiaries facing the array of challenges, in order to take the advantage of promising opportunities on MGNREGA works makes the beneficiaries to work effectively. The beneficiaries participating in gramasabhas for discussing, planning of new projects and activities in the panchayat. In discussions and meetings, the panchayat officialâ€™s acts as facilitators and beneficiaries also participate as an active participant in discussions. The main aim of the scheme is providing 100 days of employment to the beneficiaries in the year and this helps them to perform their livelihood activities in the non-agricultural seasons. The equal wages and assignment of same work for the men and women ensures the equity among them in the society. The creation of assets in the village makes more employment opportunities and improves the labour market earnings among the labourers, which in turn empowers the society. ','INTRODUCTION\r\nIn rural areas, major livelihood activities are irregular mainly due to seasonal fluctuations in agriculture and allied activities. This leads to periodic withdrawal from labour force, especially by the marginal laborers, who shift back and forth between what is reported as domestic and gainful work. Many workers migrate to other parts of the country in search of work. Lack of alternate livelihoods and skill development are the primary causes of migration from rural areas.More than 60 per cent of total workforce in the country derives their livelihood from agriculture. The high dependency on agriculture has caused decrease in per capita household income from farm sector and use of labour-saving technologies (Mechanization) in agricultural production has resulted in lesser employment in the rural areas and causes poverty among the rural masses. An effective way to reduce the rural poverty could be to accelerate the work force in the rural areas, by providing continuous emp','Balasubramaniam P., Sriram N., Mohanraj V., Shanjeevika V. and Kanimozhi R. (2022). Assessment of Strength, Weakness, Opportunities and Challenges among the beneficiaries in MGNREGA works in Tamil Nadu. Biological Forum â€“ An International Journal, 14(1'),(3937,'112','FGD Gypsum- An Alternate Amendment for Sodic Soil','Sandeep Bedwal, Kuldeep*, Sumantra Arya and Charan Singh','273 FGD Gypsum- An Alternate Amendment for Sodic Soil Charan Singh.pdf','',1,'Recently, there has been a surge in interest for using gypsum as a management technique to boost agricultural yields and improve soil and water quality. This interest has been fueled by the abundant quantity and availability of flue gas desulfurization (FGD) gypsum, a by-product of removing sulphur from combustion gases at coal-fired power plants, in key agricultural producing regions over the last two decades. Although it is typically cost-effective to employ FGDG as a soil amendment, its application in agriculture is extremely limited when compared to other industries. FGDG has several agricultural applications as a remediation material, including enhancing soil physicochemical qualities, limiting soil and nutrient loss, replenishing trace elements for soil, and increasing crop production. FGDG, on the other hand, contains a number of toxic trace elements. Long-term research of the influence of FGDG on soil health, heavy metal uptake, crop growth and quality, and ongoing monitoring o','Soil quality, water quality, gypsum, FGD gypsum, sulphur, soil properties','As more coal-fired power plants come online and current power plants add SO2 scrubbers to meet with clean air regulations, annual FGDG production will skyrocket. The use of FGDG as a resource material in agriculture has long been recognised. Due to concerns about significant mental harm, such as the presence of toxic heavy metals in FGDG and leaching issues, it is necessary to incorporate FGDG into agriculture more effectively in order to fully exploit its various physical and chemical properties, which are beneficial to soil and crop health. Because it includes a significant number of important nutrients for plant growth, such as macronutrients like Ca, S, and Fe, Mg, and K, as well as micronutrients like Se, Mn, Zn, Cu, B, and Mo, FGDG\'s potential for usage in agriculture is gaining popularity. It is capable of reclaiming deteriorated soils. Applying FGDG to deteriorated soils can enhance physicochemical qualities, boost plant development, and improve crop quality. As a soil ameliora','INTRODUCTION\r\nSulfur oxides (SOx) are released into the environment from two different sorts of sources: natural and anthropogenic. Geothermal, oceanic, vegetative, and terrestrial emissions are examples of natural sources. Natural sources account for 20% of total sulphur oxides released into the environment, while anthropogenic sources account for the remaining 80%. Sulfur emissions are caused by companies that use high-sulfur-content fossil fuels or industries that use sulfur-containing raw materials (e.g., sulfuric acid and ammonium sulphate manufacturing plants). Sulfur oxides are a primary source of anthropogenic emissions produced by the combustion of coal, crude oil and crude oil-based fuel oil, and gaseous fuels. In 1990, the United States, the Soviet Union, and China were the world\'s top sulphur dioxide emitters (accounting for over half of the total). Due to varied control techniques, the USSR and the US have stabilised their sulphur emissions during the last 20 years, and cu','Sandeep Bedwal, Kuldeep*, Sumantra Arya and Charan Singh (2022). FGD Gypsum- An Alternate Amendment for Sodic Soil. Biological Forum â€“ An International Journal, 14(1): 1554-1561.'),(3938,'118','Effect of Nano-selenium on Plasma Antioxidant status and Reproductive system function of Female Rats exposed to Oxidative Stress Induced by Doxorubicin','Sara Rastgoo and Ali Asghar Sadeghi','30 Effect of Nano-selenium on Plasma Antioxidant status and Reproductive system function of Female Rats exposed to Oxidative Stress Induced by DoxorubicinALI ASGHAR SADEGHI.pdf','',1,'The present study was designed to examine the protective effect of nano-Selenium (nSe) on plasma antioxidant capacity and the concentration of gonadotropic and steroidal hormones in female rats following exposure to doxorubicin. Rats were randomly divided into four experimental groups (5 rats in each) and treated as follows: group 1 received normal saline by injection (ip) daily, group 2 received doxorubicin (6 mg/kg body weight) dissolved in normal saline, group 3 received nSe (0.3 mg/kg body weight) by ip injection, and group 4 received doxorubicin (6 mg/kg body weight) dissolved in normal saline following nSe (0.3 mg/kg body weight) injected one day before. All groups were treated for 28 days and injections were done each 48 hour. Administration of doxorubicin significantly increased superoxide dismutase activity as compared with control group and supplementation of nSehad no effect on it. Rats in control group had the lowest malondialdehyde level and those received doxorubicin had ','Doxorubicin, Estrogen, Nano-Selenium, Progestrone, Rat','The present study was designed to examine the protective effect of nano-Selenium (nSe) on plasma antioxidant capacity and the concentration of gonadotropic and steroidal hormones in female rats following exposure to doxorubicin. Rats were randomly divided into four experimental groups (5 rats in each) and treated as follows: group 1 received normal saline by injection (ip) daily, group 2 received doxorubicin (6 mg/kg body weight) dissolved in normal saline, group 3 received nSe (0.3 mg/kg body weight) by ip injection, and group 4 received doxorubicin (6 mg/kg body weight) dissolved in normal saline following nSe (0.3 mg/kg body weight) injected one day before. All groups were treated for 28 days and injections were done each 48 hour. Administration of doxorubicin significantly increased superoxide dismutase activity as compared with control group and supplementation of nSehad no effect on it. Rats in control group had the lowest malondialdehyde level and those received doxorubicin had ','The doxorubicin is an anticancer drug which used in treatment of various tumors. This drug exhibits severe toxicity to the reproductive system and resulted in disturb the male and female fertility (Zanetti et al., 2007; Sridevi, 2011; Sridevi et al., 2012). A number of possible toxic mechanisms have been recognized following exposure to doxorubicin, the main pathogenic mechanism appears to involve the generation of reactive oxygen species named oxidative stress (Hozayen, 2012; Patil and Balaraman, 2009; Abdel-Wahab et al., 2003).Oxidative stress occurs as a result of an imbalance between pro-oxidants and antioxidants (Al-Gubory et al., 2010). This imbalance is due to increased levels of reactive oxygen species, nitrogen species or decreased antioxidant defense system occurs (Burton and Jauniaux, 2010; Cindrova-Davies et al., 2007; Ruder et al., 2009). \r\nIf the production of reactive oxygen species be more than usual, it can damage the cells, including damage to DNA, lipid membranes, an','Sara Rastgoo and Ali Asghar Sadeghi (2015). Effect of Nano-selenium on Plasma Antioxidant status and Reproductive system function of Female Rats exposed to Oxidative Stress Induced by Doxorubicin , Biological Forum â€“ An International Journal 7(2): 187-1'),(3939,'112','Effect of Residue Management and Fertilizer Levels on Weeds and Wheat Productivity in Rice-wheat Cropping System','Preetam Kumar, Sandeep Rawal, A.K. Dhaka, Raj Kumar* and Kavita','274 Effect of Residue Management and Fertilizer Levels on Weeds and Wheat Productivity in Rice-wheat Cropping System Raj Kumar.pdf','',1,'Mechanization in rice-wheat has resulted into generation of large volume of crop residue. Scanty management of this surplus crop residue is a deliberate threat to sustainability of this major cropping system. An experiment was conducted during rabi 2019 at Research Farm Area, KVK Damla (Yamunanagar) of CCS Haryana Agricultural University Hisar. The experiment was laid out in split plot design with 3 replications consisting of six residue management practises (C0R1T3 = Combine harvesting of paddy without SMS, burning of crop residues and sowing of wheat by conventional tillage method; C0R2T1= Combine harvesting of paddy without SMS, residue shredding with mulcher followed by happy seeder sowing of wheat; C0R2T0= Combine harvesting of paddy without SMS, direct sowing of wheat with happy seeder; C1R2T0= Combine harvesting of paddy with SMS followed by sowing of wheat using happy seeder; C0R2T2= Combine harvesting of paddy without SMS, residue shredding with straw chopper followed by happy','conservation, Indo-Gangetic plains, mulch, maturity, sustainability','Based on one year study it may be concluded that combine harvesting of paddy without SMS, residue shredding with mulcher followed by happy seeder sowing of wheat can reduce the yield losses due to weeds, enhance the growth, yield attribute and yield (grain and straw) of wheat. Application of 125 per cent recommended dose of fertilizer resulted in higher grain and straw yield of wheat under no-till residue retained condition as compared to conventional tillage practices with no-residue retention. However, contribution of nutrients from decomposition of residue may increase with successive inoculation of residue. There is need to fine tune the fertilizer level in long run of residue retention to sustain the crop yield along with improving the soil health. \r\n','INTRODUCTION\r\nRice (Oryza sativa L.) â€“ Wheat (Triticum aestivum L.) is the most predominant productive as well as nutrient exhaustive cropping system of India. In the country, rice-wheat cropping system is practised in about 10 m ha in Indo-Gangetic plains (Kumar et al., 2019). Rice-wheat is very popular among farmers due to assured procurement, subsidized electricity and other inputs, development of superior photo and thermo-insensitive high-yielding varieties and the mechanised agriculture practises. Combine harvesting of paddy is easy to use, saves time and overcomes the shortage of labour in harvesting season. The combine harvesting pf paddy generates huge amount of loose residue which hinderers the tillage operations. Farmers find burning of these residues as most quick and economical method for preparation of the field for sowing of wheat. Burning of crop residue results in a number of problems like loss of moisture, nutrients, organic matter and degradation of soil (Sidhu et a','Preetam Kumar, Sandeep Rawal, A.K. Dhaka, Raj Kumar and Kavita (2022). Effect of Residue Management and Fertilizer Levels on Weeds and Wheat Productivity in Rice-wheat Cropping System. Biological Forum â€“ An International Journal, 14(1): 1562-1566.'),(3940,'118','Effects of Super Absorbent Polymer on the Quantity, Quality, Physiological and Biochemical Wheat (Triticum aestivum L.) in soils infected with Lead','Nahid Tahmasebi, Hamid Reza Tohidi Moghadam and Arash Borzou','31 Effects of Super Absorbent Polymer on the Quantity, Quality, Physiological and Biochemical Wheat _Triticum aestivum L._ in soils infected with LeadHAMID REZA TOHIDI MOGHADAM.pdf','',1,'Soil pollution with heavy metals result of human activities such as mining, metallurgical and application of fertilizers, pesticides and fungicides in agriculture etc. which threaten human health and the ecosystem. Patterns modern industrial activities leading to environmental pollution, especially pollution with heavy metals out. So for evaluation of effects of super absorbance and lead nitrate on wheat a factorial experiment in completely randomized design with 12 treatment and 3 replication in varamin city at 2014 is done. The results of this experiment showed that increasing the concentration of the plant in order to increase the lead, and superabsorbent And decrease in antioxidant enzymes such as superoxide dismutase, catalase, glutathione peroxidase was. Thus it can be concluded that, given that the country is arid and semiarid region And also due to the pollution of soils with heavy metals using it as superabsorbent are effective treatments that can enhance the water holding cap','Super absorbent polymer, nitrate, lead, wheat.','Soil pollution with heavy metals result of human activities such as mining, metallurgical and application of fertilizers, pesticides and fungicides in agriculture etc. which threaten human health and the ecosystem. Patterns modern industrial activities leading to environmental pollution, especially pollution with heavy metals out. So for evaluation of effects of super absorbance and lead nitrate on wheat a factorial experiment in completely randomized design with 12 treatment and 3 replication in varamin city at 2014 is done. The results of this experiment showed that increasing the concentration of the plant in order to increase the lead, and superabsorbent And decrease in antioxidant enzymes such as superoxide dismutase, catalase, glutathione peroxidase was. Thus it can be concluded that, given that the country is arid and semiarid region And also due to the pollution of soils with heavy metals using it as superabsorbent are effective treatments that can enhance the water holding cap','Soil contamination with heavy metals result of human activities such as mining, metallurgical and application of fertilizers, pesticides and fungicides in agriculture and human health and ecosystems so that it endangers. Patterns modern industrial activities leading to environmental pollution, especially pollution with heavy metals out. Many acidic soils and arable land, about half of which have the potential to produce food as a source of heavy metals to plant roots is limited (Shyam, 2001). Lead is a dangerous heavy metal pollutants in the environment, impact on metabolic and physiological organisms, so in recent years, researchers have become more concerned (Badot, 2003). Lead toxicity in plants prevents the elongation of roots, inhibition of photosynthesis, and so fitted. The sensitivity of plants to lead and their responses varies and depends on the physiological and genetic structure them. So study the effect of heavy metals on the one hand to identify the plants tolerant plants ','Nahid Tahmasebi, Hamid Reza Tohidi Moghadam and Arash Borzou (2015). Effects of Super Absorbent Polymer on the Quantity, Quality, Physiological and Biochemical Wheat (Triticum aestivum L.) in soils infected with Lead , Biological Forum â€“ An Internationa'),(3941,'118','Effect of Two Types of Feedback and Error Estimation on Error Detection Capability in Continuous Tracking task','Hassan Khodadost, Ehsan Zareian, Hossein Khaleghi Arani, \r\nReihaneh Najarian Nosh-abadi and Rahmat Allah Mashreghi ','32 Effect of Two Types of Feedback and Error Estimation on Error Detection Capability in Continuous Tracking taskHASSAN KHODADOST @ KAMBIZ.pdf','',1,'The present paper aimed to study the effect of two types of feedback and error estimation on error detection capability in a continuous tracking task. 50subjects participated in the study who were divided into four experimental groups and one control group according to the status of estimation (with estimation or without estimation) and the type of augmented feedback (KP or KR). The desired task was pursuit tracking task in which the subject was asked to follow a yellow circle on a blue background on the screen by moving the mouse. Error Estimation Accuracy was used for measuring error detection capability.\r\nThe results of one-way analysis of variance (ANOVA) indicated that there is a significant difference between the experimental groups and the control. Also, the results of two-way analysis of variance showed a significant difference between KR and KP groups (p<0.05).\r\nThe findings showed any type of augmented feedback affects error detection capability and error estimation improves ','Feedback; Error estimation; Error detection capability; Continuous task','The present paper aimed to study the effect of two types of feedback and error estimation on error detection capability in a continuous tracking task. 50subjects participated in the study who were divided into four experimental groups and one control group according to the status of estimation (with estimation or without estimation) and the type of augmented feedback (KP or KR). The desired task was pursuit tracking task in which the subject was asked to follow a yellow circle on a blue background on the screen by moving the mouse. Error Estimation Accuracy was used for measuring error detection capability.\r\nThe results of one-way analysis of variance (ANOVA) indicated that there is a significant difference between the experimental groups and the control. Also, the results of two-way analysis of variance showed a significant difference between KR and KP groups (p<0.05).\r\nThe findings showed any type of augmented feedback affects error detection capability and error estimation improves ','Learning, which is usually defined as relatively permanent changes in behaviors resulting from relationship with the environment and to acquiring new experiences, gives a distinctive feature to the all living organisms (Shoarinejad, 1999). However, learning is much more flexible in human than other creatures and the secret of human progress and success lies in his talent and ability in learning. In recent years, several studies have been conducted on learning and performance of motor skills, the aim of which was to identify the key factors affecting the performance and learning. Feedback is one of these important factors, as it is the basis of recent motor-control theories. According to Adams\'s closed-loop theory, no correct perceptual trace can be formed without feedback and according to Schmidt\'s schema theory, feedback is essential for the formation of recall schema and recognition schema. Depending on the place it comes from, feedback is divided into two categories of inherent feed','Hassan Khodadost, Ehsan Zareian, Hossein Khaleghi Arani, \r\nReihaneh Najarian Nosh-abadi and Rahmat Allah Mashreghi (2015).Effect of Two Types of Feedback and Error Estimation on Error Detection Capability in Continuous Tracking task , Biological Forum â€'),(3942,'118','Analysis of the Consequences of Reducing Water level in Lake Urmia on the situation of Agricultural Sector in West Azarbaijan province, Iran','Hossein Mazour, Soleiman Rasouliazar and Loghman Rashidpour','33 Analysis of the Consequences of Reducing Water level in Lake Urmia on the situation of Agricultural Sector in West Azarbaijan province, Iran SOLIEMAN RASOULIAZAR.pdf','',1,'Lake Urmia is one of the world\'s lakes that has overt and covert capacities in its. This lake is located in the eastern part of West Azarbaijan province. Lake Urmia is a favorable environment for creating income, and also we can say a tremendous impact on the region\'s climate. Loss of Lake Urmia water we can be named as a crisis for agriculture. The main objective of this study is to analyze the economic and social consequences of reduction in Lake Urmia water on agriculture in West Azerbaijan province that has been done by descriptive and survey method. Data was collected by questionnaire and using factor analysis techniques were investigated in the SPSS software. And then items under test were classified into 6 consequence that the financial consequence was identified as the most important factor with eigenvalue of 3.244 which in fact, includes 12.975% of the consequences of reduction in water of Lake Urmia.','Lake Urmia, consequences, water deficit, agriculture, Urmia','Lake Urmia is one of the world\'s lakes that has overt and covert capacities in its. This lake is located in the eastern part of West Azarbaijan province. Lake Urmia is a favorable environment for creating income, and also we can say a tremendous impact on the region\'s climate. Loss of Lake Urmia water we can be named as a crisis for agriculture. The main objective of this study is to analyze the economic and social consequences of reduction in Lake Urmia water on agriculture in West Azerbaijan province that has been done by descriptive and survey method. Data was collected by questionnaire and using factor analysis techniques were investigated in the SPSS software. And then items under test were classified into 6 consequence that the financial consequence was identified as the most important factor with eigenvalue of 3.244 which in fact, includes 12.975% of the consequences of reduction in water of Lake Urmia.','Lake Urmia in terms of sea level is the twentieth in size and saltiest lake in the world after Dead Sea. The length of the Lake Urmia varies from 130 to 146 km and its width of 58 km to 15 km (between Zanbil Mountain and Islamii Island). The volume of water in Lake Urmia in an area of 5 thousand and 822 square kilometers with an average depth of 5.4 meters is estimated to be over 31 billion cubic meters. Lake Urmia Basin has 52 thousand and 47 square kilometers, which is located in the provinces of West and East Azerbaijan, Kurdistan and a very small part in Turkey (Mohammadian, 2012). \r\nAgriculture in West Azarbaijan province as a very obvious profession is for people who live in this province. A profession that has always existed in the past, due to favorable climatic variability in the region. Climate changes such as flooding, hail, drought and so on damages the balance of this area, but this has been a short-term climate changes and their effects does not exceed than a few more yea','Hossein Mazour, Soleiman Rasouliazar and Loghman Rashidpour (2015). Analysis of the Consequences of Reducing Water level in Lake Urmia on the situation of Agricultural Sector in West Azarbaijan province, Iran ,Biological Forum â€“ An International Journal'),(3943,'118','A Predictive Model for Breeding of Pistachio Yield Stability under Water Stress Condition','Hojjat Hasheminasab and Mohammad Taghi Assad','34 A Predictive Model for Breeding of Pistachio Yield Stability under Water Stress ConditionDR HOJJAT HASHEMINASAB.pdf','',1,'The present study was conducted to evaluate a statistical model for predicting pistachio yield stability based on physiological traits related to plant water status under drought stress condition. Nineteen Pistachio (Pistacia vera L.) cultivars with wide range of tolerance to drought stress were collected from across the orchards of Rafsanjan (Iranâ€™s center of pistachio cultivation) and were used in randomized complete block design with three replications under two environmental conditions (normal and water stress) in 2011-2012. The results of this study showed that the model developed by multiple linear regression analysis explained 76.8% of the total variation within all the physiological traits while the remaining 23.3% may be due to residual effects. Although analysis of variance (ANOVA) showed goodness of the model (MSRegression = 0.003**) when all predictor variables were present in the model, residual plots analysis revealed a right-skewed in the model. Therefore, the model wa','Pistachio, Water stress, Yield stability, Physiological traits.','The results of current study showed that predictive model developed by multiple linear regression analysis explained 76.8% of the total variation within all the physiological traits. The residual plots analysis showed no problem in the model with selected variables. On the other hand, t-test and collinearity statistics showed that some of the variables are not important to be present in this model. Therefore, the model was optimized using stepwise multiple linear regression analysis and the results of the final model demonstrated that about 70 % of the variability in YSI could be attributed to RWP, RWC and WRC only and selected these traits as the best indicators for predicting pistachio yield stability under water stress condition.','Water plays a key role in the life processes of plants. It is the most abundant constituents of most organisms. Water is very essential for plant growth and makes up 75 to 95 percent of plant tissue. A vast amount of water moves throughout the plant daily (Vince and ZoltÃ¡n, 2011). Plants use water and carbon dioxide to form sugars and complex carbohydrates. Water acts as a carrier of nutrients and also a cooling agent. It also provides an element of support through turgor and as an intercellular reaction medium. Many of the physio-biochemical reactions occur in water and water is itself either a reactant or a product in a large number of those reactions (Ashraf and Harris, 2005; Hasheminasab et al., 2013).\r\nWater stress is one of the major environmental factors limiting plant performance, growth and productivity in arid and semi-arid regions and recent global climate change along with increasing shortage of water resources has made this situation more serious (Blum, 1985; Renu and Dev','Hojjat Hasheminasab and Mohammad Taghi Assad (2015). A Predictive Model for Breeding of Pistachio Yield Stability under Water Stress Condition , Biological Forum â€“ An International Journal 7(2): 212-217. '),(3944,'118','Heritability, Genetic Variability and Relationship among Morphological and Chemical Parameters of Strawberry Cultivars','Rosa Ghoochani, Ali Vosough and Farhad Karami','35 Heritability, Genetic Variability and Relationship among Morphological and Chemical Parameters of Strawberry Cultivars ROSA GHOOCHANI.pdf','',1,'Two field trials of 14 strawberry cultivars were conducted at the Natural Resources and Agricultural Research Center, Kurdistan during 2008 and 2009 growing seasons. Cluster analysis grouped the 14 strawberry cultivars into 3 groups, with the highest distance between Kurdistan and Camarosa cultivars. Based on genotypic and phenotypic coefficients of variation, the highest variation of traits was recorded for stolons/plant. The berry yield had high coefficient of variability and heritability, therefore direct screening for yield would be effective for selecting promising genotypes. Berry size and berry weight showed high direct effect, and therefore, are the most important contributors of yield among morphological traits. The number of stolons/plant was the least important contributor. The principal component analysis showed that yield could have a positive effect on total soluble solids (TSS) as higher yield resulted in higher TSS.','genotypic coefficients of variation, screening, direct effect, principal component.','Two field trials of 14 strawberry cultivars were conducted at the Natural Resources and Agricultural Research Center, Kurdistan during 2008 and 2009 growing seasons. Cluster analysis grouped the 14 strawberry cultivars into 3 groups, with the highest distance between Kurdistan and Camarosa cultivars. Based on genotypic and phenotypic coefficients of variation, the highest variation of traits was recorded for stolons/plant. The berry yield had high coefficient of variability and heritability, therefore direct screening for yield would be effective for selecting promising genotypes. Berry size and berry weight showed high direct effect, and therefore, are the most important contributors of yield among morphological traits. The number of stolons/plant was the least important contributor. The principal component analysis showed that yield could have a positive effect on total soluble solids (TSS) as higher yield resulted in higher TSS.','Strawberries (Fragaria Ã— ananassa Duch.) are important fruits and excellent dietary sources due to their unique taste, flavour, ascorbic acid, potassium, fibre, other secondary metabolites and simple sugar sources of energy (Kafkas et al. 2007). Berry yield is a polygenic trait and greatly influenced by environmental condition. The breeders have used yield components as selection criteria to improve yield by indirect selection (Iqbal et al. 2009). Selection efficiency depends on the magnitude of its heritability and genetic variation for a character (Falconer, Mackay, and Frankham 1996). Information on the nature and extent of genetic variability and degree of transmission of traits is of paramount importance in enhancing selection efficiency (Ehdaie and Waines 1989). Genetic parameters such as genotypic coefficient of variability, heritability and genetic advance can provide precise estimates for genetic variation in quantitative traits (Falconer et al. 1996) and are used by breeders','Rosa Ghoochani, Ali Vosough and Farhad Karami (2015). Heritability, Genetic Variability and Relationship among Morphological and Chemical Parameters of Strawberry Cultivars , Biological Forum â€“ An International Journal 7(2): 218-224 . '),(3945,'118','Quantifying the Grapes losses and waste in various stages of supply chain','Somayeh Rajabi, Farhad Lashgarara*, Maryam Omidi and Seyed Jamal Farajallah Hosseini. ','36 Quantifying the Grapes losses and waste in various stages of supply chainRAJABI SOMAYEH.pdf','',1,'The main purpose of this study was to quantify the amount of grapes losses and waste across the entire grape supply chain among small-scaled grape growers in Takestan city of Qazvin province. In order to estimate the amount of grape supply chain losses and waste we used mass flows of fruits and vegetables model and its special equations. According to this model, grape supply chain consists of agricultural production, post-harvest, processing, distribution and consumption. In this regard, grape losses take place at the first three stages and grape waste occur in two final stages. The required data were collected through government and private data sources with horticulture expert estimates, grape growers interviews, agriculture cooperation interviews, raisin factory estimates, seasonally markets consultations and own calculations. The results showed in total about 53% of the grapes produced in the Takestan city converted to losses and waste in various stages. Of course, a major part of ','grapes, losses, waste, food supply chain, small-scaled grape growers ','The main purpose of this study was to quantify the amount of grapes losses and waste across the entire grape supply chain among small-scaled grape growers in Takestan city of Qazvin province. In order to estimate the amount of grape supply chain losses and waste we used mass flows of fruits and vegetables model and its special equations. According to this model, grape supply chain consists of agricultural production, post-harvest, processing, distribution and consumption. In this regard, grape losses take place at the first three stages and grape waste occur in two final stages. The required data were collected through government and private data sources with horticulture expert estimates, grape growers interviews, agriculture cooperation interviews, raisin factory estimates, seasonally markets consultations and own calculations. The results showed in total about 53% of the grapes produced in the Takestan city converted to losses and waste in various stages. Of course, a major part of ','Annually, a large amount of food crops are lost or wasted during the food supply chain (Buchner et al., 2012). This loss would be enough to feed around 1.9 billion people (Kummu et al., 2012). Researchers believe reducing food crops losses would be an important way to improve food supply and food security not only in developing countries but also in developed areas (Gustavsson et al., 2011). Beretta et al said \'\' The food value chain is the system of organizations, people, and activities involved in moving food from its producer (usually the farmer) to the consumer.\'\' \r\nAccording to Parfitt et al. (2010) and Gustavsson et al. (2011) total losses and waste occurring within the different steps of FSC that these steps are production, postharvest, processing, distribution, and consumption. According to them, food losses occur in the production, postharvest and processing of crops where most losses are caused by mechanical, managerial, environmental, farming methods and more. On the other s','Somayeh Rajabi, Farhad Lashgarara*, Maryam Omidi and Seyed Jamal Farajallah Hosseini. (2015). Quantifying the Grapes losses and waste in various stages of supply chain , Biological Forum â€“ An International Journal 7(2): 225-229.'),(3946,'118','Drought Tolerance of Advanced Bread Wheat Genotypes Based on Different Drought Tolerance Criteria','Shokouh Dabiry, Mohammad Ali Esmaeili, Reza Haghparast and Mahdi Ghajarsepanlo','37 Drought Tolerance of Advanced Bread Wheat Genotypes Based on Different Drought Tolerance CriteriaMOHAMMAD ALI ESMAEILI.pdf','',1,'In order to study genetic variation and effect of drought stress on grain yield and some agronomical and water relation-traits in bread wheat, an experiment was conducted on 16 advanced genotypes during 2013-2014 cropping season at deputy of Kermanshah Sararood Dry Land Agricultural Research Institute, located on the western part of Iran. The experimental layout was conducted in a randomized complete block design with three replications under two complementary irrigation and dryland conditions. Results indicated that genotype and environment treatments significantly affect the yield and the most of the other evaluated traits whereas, the interaction between genotype and environment was not significant for all evaluated traits with expectation for grain yield. Significant reduction was found in grain yield, number of grain per spike, harvest index, grain crude starch and water relation-traits such as relative water content, leaf water content and excised leaf water retention as a result','Biplot, Drought indices, Grain yield, Water relation-traits, Protein','At the present study, a genotypic variation was observed for grain yield and the other studied traits under both conditions, especially complementary irrigation conditions. Results indicated that genotype and environment treatments significantly affect the yield and the most of the other evaluated traits. Significant reduction was found in grain yield, number of grain per spike, harvest index, grain crude starch and water relation-traits such as relative water content, leaf water content and excised leaf water retention as a result of the drought, whereas leaf water loss, grain crude protein and grain crude fiber were increased in dryland conditions. This study supports this idea that grain yield and water relation-traits can be utilized to screen wheat genotypes for drought tolerance. According to the results of mean comparison and drought indices, genotypes number 1, 2, 8 and 10 were drought tolerant whereas genotypes number 7, 14, 13 and 16 were drought susceptible. Therefore, genot','World population is increasing apace and important percentage of the needed food for this growing population is depended on agricultural production. Wheat is the second most produced cereal crop as a sustained food which constitutes about 28 % of dietary energy in many parts of the world (Braun et al. 2010; Cai et al., 2011). Wheat production is restricted by varied stresses which cause different problems due to great impacts on human nutrition. Therefore, in recent years, studying crop response to environmental stresses has greatly increased due to severe losses caused by these stresses (Blum, 1996). So, one of the main purposes of all nations is reducing these damages simultaneity with the increasing food demands (Mahajan and Tuteja, 2005). \r\nIn the natural environments, plants often grow under various stresses which are threats for plants and inhibiting them from reaching to their full genetic potential and limit the crops productivity worldwide (Krishania and et al., 2013). Moreove','Shokouh Dabiry, Mohammad Ali Esmaeili, Reza Haghparast and Mahdi Ghajarsepanlo (2015). Drought Tolerance of Advanced Bread Wheat Genotypes Based on Different Drought Tolerance Criteria , Biological Forum â€“ An International Journal '),(3947,'118','Effects of Foliar Spraying acetyl-coA on Chemical Compositions of Rosemary (Rosmarinus officinalis L.)','Vahid Abdossi, Mahshad Hosseini and Mojtaba Khorrami','38 Effects of Foliar Spraying acetyl-coA on Chemical Compositions of Rosemary _Rosmarinus officinalis L._MOJTABA KHORRAMI.pdf','',1,'Rosemary (Rosmarinus officinalis L.), belonging to the Lamiaceae family. Acetyl coenzyme A is an important molecule in metabolism playing role in many biochemical reactions. Its main function is to convey the carbon atoms within the acetyl group to the citric acid cycle (Krebs cycle) to be oxidized for energy production. The aim of this study was including two factors (acetyl-co A and the time of treatment application) on chemical compositions of (Rosmarinus officinalis L.). Acetyl-coA was used in 6 different concentrations (0, 25, 50, 100, 200, and 400 mM) which were applied to plants 1, 2, and 3 times with seven - day interval. The results obtained in our study indicated that the application of acetyl-CoA on first week, the highest limonene content (13.5%) obtained from control and the highest camphor content (10.3%) and borneol content (11.1%) obtained from foliar spraying acetyl-coA with concentrations (400 mM) and the highest verbenone content (11.6%) obtained from foliar spraying','Rosmarinus officinalis L, acetyl-co A, Chemical compositions','In conclusion, the results obtained in our study indicated that the application of acetyl-CoA on first week, the highest limonene content (13.5%) obtained from control and the highest camphor content (10.3%) and borneol content (11.1%) obtained from foliar spraying acetyl-coA with concentrations (400 mM) and the highest verbenone content (11.6%) obtained from foliar spraying acetyl-coA with concentrations (50 mM). The results obtained on second week, the highest verbenone content (15.5%) and borneol content (11.7%) obtained from foliar spraying acetyl-coA with concentrations (400 mM) and the highest camphor content (15.1%) obtained from foliar spraying acetyl-coA with concentrations (200 mM) compared with the control. The results obtained onthreeweek the highest camphor content (18.5%) and borneol content (14.6%) obtained from foliar spraying acetyl-coA with concentrations (400 mM) and the highest verbenone content (18.1%) obtained from foliar spraying acetyl-coA with concentrations ','Acetyl-CoA is an intermediate common to a variety of metabolic processes that are distributed across at least five different subcellular compartments. In plastids, acetyl-CoA is the precursor for de novo fatty acid biosynthesis (Nikolau et al., 2003) and for the biosynthesis of glucosinylates. Mitochondrial acetyl-CoA is incorporated into the TCA cycle and is used for the generation of ATP and the synthesis of amino acid carbon skeletons (Falk et al., 2004). Rosemary (Rosmarinus officinalis L.), belonging to the Lamiaceae family is an aromatic evergreen shrub plantand medicinal herb widely used around the world. Is a flowering plant that grows in Mediterranean countries, southern Europe and in the littoral region through Minor Asia areas wildly (Atti-Santos et al., 2005). It is a well-known valuable medicinal herb that is widely used in pharmaceutical products and traditional medicine as a digestive, tonic, astringent, diuretic, diaphoretic and is useful for urinary ailments (Mahomoud ','Vahid Abdossi, Mahshad Hosseini and Mojtaba Khorrami (2015). Effects of Foliar Spraying acetyl-coA on Chemical Compositions of Rosemary (Rosmarinus officinalis L.) ,Biological Forum â€“ An International Journal 7(2): 242-246.'),(3948,'118','The Survey on the Effective Dimensions of Chaos Theory on Agricultural Extension Sector Using Structural Equation Modeling','Marziyeh Bordbar, Iraj Malekmohammadi, Seyed Mahmood Hosseini and Mohammad Chizari\r\n','39 The Survey on the Effective Dimensions of Chaos Theory on Agricultural Extension Sector Using Structural Equation Modeling MARZIYEH BORDBAR.pdf','',1,'The aim of the survey is to study the effective dimensions of chaos theory on agricultural extension sector. This study is the first attempt using chaos theory to improve agricultural extension. The target population was agricultural specialists in Fars province of Iran. 100 agricultural specialists were selected. A questionnaire was developed used fixed - choice questions. Validity of the instrument was established using an expert panel. A pilot study was conducted to determine the reliability of the questionnaire for the study. A Cronbach\'s alpha, Average variance extracted and Composite Reliability was calculated. The statistical analysis used the structural equation modeling, with SPSS ver.16 and smart PLS softwares. Using advisability and flexible programming in decision making, stakeholders\' tendency, considering long term missions and self-control are the most important factors in chaos theory in relation to agricultural extension. Factors of self-organizing, strange attractors ','Strange attractors, Butterfly effect, Self-organizing, Chaos theory','Chaos theory suggests that it is possible to influence change but not to completely control it. The predictive variables in the forecasting model once identified and deemed to be statistically significant could be incorporated in an outcomes based planning framework that informs short term decision making. This paper argues that chaos theory provides a useful theoretical framework for understanding the dynamic evolution of agricultural extension. By conceptualizing agricultural extension as chaotic systems, a number of implications can be developed. If a system (agricultural extension) exhibits chaos, decision making should consider the system characterization parameters from a chaos theory perspective such as using advisability and flexible programming in decision making, stakeholders\' tendency, considering long term missions and self-control are the most important factors in chaos theory in relation to agricultural extension. Factors of self-organizing, strange attractors and butterf','The concept of deterministic chaos has been greatly influencing not only science but also engineering, technology, and even arts along with substantial progress in our understanding of deterministic chaos since 1970\'s (Aihara, 2012). The most general definition of chaos referred to as\'on-scheme and unpredictable situation\' is defined as \'irregularity pattern\' in science. Perhaps, the most satisfactory definition of chaos concept is that: \"Chaos is irregular and unpredictable behavior of complex linear dynamic systems\" (Demir, 2013). \r\nChaos theory offers a number of insights about changes that appear non-predictable and non-linear (Wong, 2013) that has grown into a collection of analytical tools can be applied across all sciences. It is a set of non-linear mathematical tools. Chaotic systems appear in many fields of science and engineering such as mechanical engineering, biology, chemistry, physics and laser science and economics (Salarieh and Alasty, 2009). Aspects of chaos theory hav','Marziyeh Bordbar, Iraj Malekmohammadi, Seyed Mahmood Hosseini and Mohammad Chizari (2015).The Survey on the Effective Dimensions of Chaos Theory on Agricultural Extension Sector Using Structural Equation Modeling , Biological Forum â€“ An International J'),(3949,'118','Genetic Variation of Advanced Bread Wheat Genotypes for Remobilization related Traits under irrigated and Rainfed conditions using GGE Biplot Method','Shokouh Dabiry, Mohammad Ali Esmaeili, Reza Haghparast and Mahdi Ghajarsepanlo','40 Genetic Variation of Advanced Bread Wheat Genotypes for Remobilization related Traits under irrigated and Rainfed conditions using GGE Biplot MethodMOHAMMAD ALI ESMAEILI.pdf','',1,'The accumulation of assimilate remobilization in 16 advanced bread wheat genotypes was investigated using in vitro and in vivo experiments in deputy of Kermanshah Sararood Dry Land Agricultural Research Institute during 2013-2014 cropping season. The experimental layout was conducted in a randomized complete block design with three replications under two complementary irrigation and rainfed conditions. In this study 24 morphophysiological traits were measured. To show graphically data to \"which is best for what\", \"interrelationship among cultivars\", \"cultivar means trait\", \"examining the cultivars and traits\" and ranking trait based on genotypes GGE biplot software was used. Results of combined analysis of variance showed significant differences for site, genotypes and genotype*site interaction inmost of measured traits. The 16 advanced bread wheat genotypes were grouped into three clusters in irrigation condition and four cluster in rainfed condition. To wrap up the discussion, the id','Wheat, Drought stress, Remobilization, Assimilate, GGEbiplot.','The accumulation of assimilate remobilization in 16 advanced bread wheat genotypes was investigated using in vitro and in vivo experiments in deputy of Kermanshah Sararood Dry Land Agricultural Research Institute during 2013-2014 cropping season. The experimental layout was conducted in a randomized complete block design with three replications under two complementary irrigation and rainfed conditions. In this study 24 morphophysiological traits were measured. To show graphically data to \"which is best for what\", \"interrelationship among cultivars\", \"cultivar means trait\", \"examining the cultivars and traits\" and ranking trait based on genotypes GGE biplot software was used. Results of combined analysis of variance showed significant differences for site, genotypes and genotype*site interaction inmost of measured traits. The 16 advanced bread wheat genotypes were grouped into three clusters in irrigation condition and four cluster in rainfed condition. To wrap up the discussion, the id','World population is increasing at an alarming rate and important percentage of the needed food for this growing population is depended on agriculture. Wheat (Triticum aestivum L.) is one of the most important food crops in the world and so is a main crops as a sustained food (Cai et al. 2011). Different abiotic stresses decrease food productivity, so one of the purpose of all nations is reducing these damages to cope with the increasing food demands (Mahajan and Tuteja 2005). Stress is the result of abnormal physiological processes that influenced by one or a combination of biological and environmental factors (Levitt 1980). In the natural environments, plants often grow under various stresses such as drought, salt, low temperature, heat, flooding, oxidative stress and heavy metal toxicity which severely affect the growth, metabolism and yield of them. All these stress factors are threats for plants and inhibiting them from reaching to their full genetic potential and limit the crops p','Shokouh Dabiry, Mohammad Ali Esmaeili, Reza Haghparast and Mahdi Ghajarsepanlo (2015). Genetic Variation of Advanced Bread Wheat Genotypes for Remobilization related Traits under irrigated and Rainfed conditions using GGE Biplot Method , Biological Forum '),(3950,'118','Sicyos angulatus L. new Alien Species in Souhtern Colkheti Flora (Adjara, Georgia)','Irakli Mikeladze, Gia Bolkvadze, Mariam Metreveli, Ramaz Chagalidze,\r\n and Murman Davitadze\r\n','41 Sicyos angulatus L. new Alien Species in Souhtern Colkheti Flora _Adjara, Georgia_IRAKLI MIKELADZE @ GEORGIA.pdf','',1,'In the end of 20th century and the beginning of 21st century synanthropyzation of flora and plants occupied the whole world including Georgia. Its change is completely impossible. We clearly see the strengthening of advent-foreign origin plants colonization. Unlike other parts of Georgia the invasion of foreign plants continues more intensely in the southern kolkheti in Adjara florist region. In this research there is given the literary survey of non-local flora spread in southern Colkheti (Adjara, Georgia) and biological characteristic features of a new invasive species Sicyos angulatus L. It is an annual plant that spreads mainly by reseeding itself. Seeds are produced in large numbers and the enclosing fruit is disseminated by animals, which may catch the prickly fruit in their fur. \r\nSicyos angulatus is spread on the river banks and nearby territories, mainly in the swampy and moist soils. It is widely spread on the agricultural grounds and represents as a serious weed for farmers.','Georgia, Adjara, Invasive, Alien, Flora, Sicyos angulatus. ','According to literary references and researches held by us the amount of non-local plant species on the territory of Southern Colkheti (Adjara, Georgia) is about 500. As for the harmfulness we put the invasive species Sicyos angulatus on the first place., its natural habitat is similar to the climatic conditions of south Colkheti soil and is characterized with wide range of spread','Floristic region of Adjara is situated in the south-west part of Georgia between 41Â° 33Â´ of South latitude and 42Â° 35Â´ of East longitude. Geographically Adjara is divided into parts- seaside Adjara and mountainous Adjara. According to relief the area is divided into 4 main parts: plains, hilly zone, mountain gorges and highland. Lowlands lay along the sea coast as a narrow line and is broken with Tsikhisziri and Gren Cape high points. The height ranges between 100-1000m and 2500-2700m. \r\nSeaside Adjara is characterized with humid subtropical climate and the inner mountainous Adjara has less humid mountainous climate. All this creates good conditions for invasion-spread of advent â€“foreign species (Javakhishvili, 1926; Nizharadze and Djibuti, 1978; Mandjavidze, 1982).\r\nMATERIALS AND METHODS \r\nRoute method of the research territory (Adjara floristic region) was used for plant description on different habitats: railway, highways and stations and habitats of nearby areas; sea port ter','Irakli Mikeladze, Gia Bolkvadze, Mariam Metreveli, Ramaz Chagalidze,\r\n and Murman Davitadze (2015). Sicyos angulatus L. new Alien Species in Souhtern Colkheti Flora (Adjara, Georgia) , Biological Forum â€“ An International Journal 7(2): 266-268 .'),(3951,'118','Polymorphism of the Southern Green Stink Bug Nezara viridula Linnaeus, 1758 (Hemiptera: Pentatomidae) In Vietnam','Thai Thi Ngoc Lam, Truong Xuan Lam and Tran Ngoc Lan','43 Polymorphism of the Southern Green Stink Bug Nezara viridula Linnaeus, 1758 _Hemiptera Pentatomidae_ In VietnamTHAI THI NGOC LAM.pdf','',1,'In Vietnam, field surveys of N. viridula (Hemiptera: Pentatomidae) on host plants (rice, corn, sesame) was collected 10 color morphs including G, O, F, R, OR, GY, OG, Y, B and C. Among them G and O types were common. The rare phenotype included B, C, Y, OR, OG and GY. Type G is the best adapted to colonize different environments. The emergence of the phenotype depends on the temperature and food (host plants). Type F and R are better adapted to higher temperatures in summer crop on sesame. Low temperatures are the good conditions for the emergence of O type. The 4th and 5th instars belong to both in GxG and GxO, had two colors: green and black; among colors, green was the most common. GxO pair created 4 phenotypes: G, O, F, R. The GxG pairs created 3 phenotypes: G, O, F.','Nezara viridula, polymorphism, host plant, distribution','1. In Vietnam, field surveys of N. viridula on host plants (rice, corn, sesame) was collected 10 color morphs including G, O, F, R, OR, GY, OG, Y, B and C. G- and O- types were common. The rare phenotype included B, C, Y, OR, OG and GY. \r\nType G is the best adapted to colonize different environments. The emergence of the phenotype depends on the temperature and food (host plants). Type F and R are better adapted to higher temperatures in summer crop on sesame. Low temperatures are the good conditions for the emergence of O-type.\r\n \r\n \r\n Lam, Lam and Lan 281\r\n \r\n2. The 4th and 5th instars belong to both in GxG and GxO, had two colors: green and black; among colors, green was the most common. GxO pair created 4 phenotypes: G, O, F, R. The GxG pairs created 3 phenotypes: G,','The southern green stink bug, Nezara viridula (L.) is known to be polymorphic, including 12 different color morphs (Kiritani & Yukawa 1963, Yukawa & Kiritani 1965, Kiritani 1970, Vivan & Panizzi 2002).\r\nAlthough the color polymorphisms are manifested in both nymphal and adult stages, previous studies have focused only on the more obvious adult traits. The four main color forms were distinguished and given names based on the color pattern on the dorsum (Kiritani and Yukawa 1963, Yukawa and Kiriani 1965). N. viridula f. smaragdula F. (G type) is the common green form, N. viridula f. torquata F. (O type) has median and lateral lobes and the anterior margin of the pronotum yellow or orange, f. viridula L. (R type) has green spots on a background of yellow or orange over the entire body, and an unnamed morph (F type) is like f. torquata except it also has yellow or orange along the margins of the convexium. Other morphs with combinations of these orange and green color traits exist, includi','Thai Thi Ngoc Lam, Truong Xuan Lam and Tran Ngoc Lan (2015). Polymorphism of the Southern Green Stink Bug Nezara viridula Linnaeus, 1758 (Hemiptera: Pentatomidae) In Vietnam . Biological Forum â€“ An International Journal 7(2): 276-281 . '),(3952,'118','Effects of Resistant Exercise on Artery Diameter in the Elderly Men','Hasan Sanian, Mahtab Moazami, Amenehbarjasteh Yazdi, Zahra Ramezani and Mahmoud Soltani\r\n','44 Effects of Resistant Exercise on Artery Diameter in the Elderly MenMAHMOUD SOLTANI @ KAMBIZ.pdf','',1,'Aging is a chronic phenomenon that can lead to atherosclerosis and blood pressure. Nowadays, it has been proved that the only reason for this disease is not aging, but lack of exercise is also one of the effective factors. The present research aims at the effects of resistant exercise on artery diameter in the elderly men. The present study is a semi-experimental one, including pre and posttests. 20 elderly men were randomly divided to two groups: Control group (n = 10, Age: 55Â± 5) and resistant exercise group (n = 10, Age: 55Â±5). The exercises continued for 3 months, three times a week, and each session lasted 30 minutes. The resistant exercise group did endurance exercises, 60 to 70 percent HRR, on treadmill. Before and after the exercises, the artery diameter of the subjects was measured. Results of the present research indicated that average resistant exercise leads to a significant increase (0.008) in artery diameter. The present research indicated that resistant exercise can le','resistant exercises, artery diameter, the elderly men','The present research indicated that resistant exercise has a significant effect on increasing the artery diameter (0.001) in the elderly men. Therefore, regular exercise can have a positive effect on factors effective on cardiovascular diseases in preventing this disease. To prevent the elderly from cardiovascular diseases and their effects, they are recommended to participate in exercises with average intensity.','The process of aging changes some of the physiological bodily factors. For example, as the result of aging, the artery wall is affected, tightened and has weak function. Therefore, artery diameter, which is related to aging and stiffness of artery, is affected and narrows down (Marsh and Keyrouz, 2010, Roger et al, 2012). By now, about 30 percent of mortalities are due to cardiovascular diseases and it is the reason behind about 17 million deaths in the world. In Iran, based on the latest reports, the reason for more than 38 percent of mortalities is related to cardiovascular diseases. It has been predicted that by 2020, the reason for more than 50 percent of mortalities would be cardiovascular diseases. As aging happens, the structure of artery walls undergoes some changes which are different in different parts of body. The most normal one of these changes includes atherosclerosis which is signaled by thickness of intima, cellular expansion of muscular and connective tissue parts, cho','Hasan Sanian, Mahtab Moazami, Amenehbarjasteh Yazdi, Zahra Ramezani and Mahmoud Soltani (2015). Effects of Resistant Exercise on Artery Diameter in the Elderly Men, Biological Forum â€“ An International Journal 7(2): 282-285. '),(3953,'118','Genetic Diversity Assessment of some Salvia sp. Ecotypes Based on\r\nISSR Markers\r\n','Masoumeh Yousefiazarkhanian, Ali Asghari, Jafar Ahmadi, Behvar Asghari and Ali Ashraf Jafari','45 Genetic Diversity Assessment of some Salvia sp. Ecotypes Based onMASOUMEH YOUSEFIAZARKHANIAN.pdf','',1,'The genus Salvia L. belongs to the Lamiaceae family with about 1000 species worldwide including 55 species in Iran. This research was conducted to study of genetic variation between and within Salvia aethiopsis, S. macrosiphon and S. virgata ecotypes by ISSR molecular technique. Five investigated primers could totally produce 65 bands of amplified DNA fragments in which 50 bands (76.9%) revealed polymorphism. The average values of PIC and MI were 0.46 and 3.61, respectively. Cluster analysis by Jaccard similarity coefficient and UPGMA algorithm showed that the ecotypes of each species could group together. On the other hand, cophenetic correlation coefficient (0.99) justified the conversion of Jaccard similarity matrix to dendrogram of cluster analysis. Analysis of molecular variance (AMOVA) indicated that the diversity within the species (18%) was lower than the variation between species (82%). Totally the results stated the ability of species differentiation by ISSR technique.','AMOVA, Genetic diversity, ISSR, Salvia.','The genus Salvia L. belongs to the Lamiaceae family with about 1000 species worldwide including 55 species in Iran. This research was conducted to study of genetic variation between and within Salvia aethiopsis, S. macrosiphon and S. virgata ecotypes by ISSR molecular technique. Five investigated primers could totally produce 65 bands of amplified DNA fragments in which 50 bands (76.9%) revealed polymorphism. The average values of PIC and MI were 0.46 and 3.61, respectively. Cluster analysis by Jaccard similarity coefficient and UPGMA algorithm showed that the ecotypes of each species could group together. On the other hand, cophenetic correlation coefficient (0.99) justified the conversion of Jaccard similarity matrix to dendrogram of cluster analysis. Analysis of molecular variance (AMOVA) indicated that the diversity within the species (18%) was lower than the variation between species (82%). Totally the results stated the ability of species differentiation by ISSR technique.','The genus Salvia (tribe Mentheae, Lamiaceae) represents a cosmopolitan assemblage of nearly 1000 species displaying a remarkable range of variation in three regions of the world: Central and South America (500 spp.), central Asia/Mediterranean (250 spp.), and eastern Asia (90 spp.). This genus includes 58 species in Iran of which 17 are endemic (Sepehry Javan et al., 2012 and Walker et al., 2004). Molecular markers that show polymorphism at the DNA level have been mentioned as a powerful tool for the estimation of plant genetic diversity (Peng et al., 2014) and using these markers especially with emphasizing on proliferation of open reading frames can be effective on genetic diversity and comparative genomic studies (Sepehry Javan et al., 2012). ISSR is a simple and efficient marker system for identification of genetic diversity for plant germplasm collection (Peng et al., 2014). The efficiency of molecular marker techniques like RAPD and ISSR in Salvia species was investigated in term','Masoumeh Yousefiazarkhanian, Ali Asghari, Jafar Ahmadi, Behvar Asghari and Ali Ashraf Jafari (2015). Genetic Diversity Assessment of some Salvia sp. Ecotypes Based on ISSR Markers , Biological Forum â€“ An International Journal 7(2): 286-288. '),(3954,'118','Relationship between of Energy Consumption and Egg Production in Poultry in Iran','Rasoul Loghmanpour Zarini, Mohammad Hadi Loghmanpour, Mohammad Ali Ramezani, Hassan Nabipour Afrouzi and Reza Tabatabaekoloor','47 Relationship between of Energy Consumption and Egg Production in Poultry in IranRASOUL LOGHMANPOUR ZARINI.pdf','',1,'Energy use pattern analysis has been the subject of many researches in agricultural production systems; however livestock farming has not been thoroughly considered. Determining the impact of fuel and electricity on egg production is the purpose of the present study. To achieve this, firstly, data were collected by interviewing randomly selected poultry farmers and then the culled data were transformed into energy equivalents. Cobb-Douglas production function was chosen as the best suitable production function among the examined ones. The sensitivity analysis was carried out by estimating the MPP factor. Accordingly, fuel had negative effect on egg yield but electricity increase did not have any negative influence on poultry farms output. To manage better fuel use, employing state of the art technologies and strategies to optimize the energy consumption is strongly recommended.','Egg production, poultry farms, energy, fuel, electricity, Cobb-Douglas','The present study was designed to investigate the functional relationship between two main non-renewable energy sources including fossil fuel and electricity use on egg production of 40 selected poultry farms of Mazandaran province. To collect the required data and information, face to face questionnaire approach was implemented and farms were selected randomly. Information about inputs use, the yield amount and farmers\' possible problems were gathered. Cobb-Douglas production function yielded the best results and therefore proposed for this study. \r\n \r\n\r\nThe total energy consuming for fuel and electricity providing was calculated to be 154594.4 MJ (1000 birds)-1, in which fuel energy was more than electricity energy consumption. This is due to the fact that most poultry equipment uses fossil fuel to operate and heating of the poultry production rooms. Having better control on fuel use in these situations and on the other hand substituting obsolete equipment with the high-tech and effi','The development of alternative energy resources has for some time been a central aim of energy policy around the world. Farm operations are continually increasing their use of electrical energy as farm size increases and agricultural production systems mechanized and supplanted by wood, coal and other fossil fuels, in recent years. Applying obsolete poultry equipment with the high amount of liquid fossil fuels is of greater concern to the studied area. \r\nFrequent exploitation of non-renewable energy sources like fossil-based fuels and electricity in production systems are acting against sustainability. While energy resources are limited and depleting, the outlook of energy consumption needs optimizing decisions. The high growth in population of the communities, the consequent demand for increased yield and the necessity to provide sufficient food for the population growth has caused a rise in the share of agriculture in these resources usage. Therefore, fossil-based fuel energy resourc','Rasoul Loghmanpour Zarini, Mohammad Hadi Loghmanpour, Mohammad Ali Ramezani, Hassan Nabipour Afrouzi and Reza Tabatabaekoloor (2015).Relationship between of Energy Consumption and Egg Production in Poultry in Iran , Biological Forum â€“ An International J'),(3955,'118','Genetic Differentiation of two Dracocephalum (Lamiaceae) species and populations in Iran by Polyacrylamide Gel Electrophoresis','Mahdiyeh Salehi, Seyed Mohsen Hesamzadeh Hejazi and Reza Tabaei','48 Genetic Differentiation of two Dracocephalum _Lamiaceae_ species and populations in Iran by Polyacrylamide Gel ElectrophoresisSEYED MOHSEN HESAMZADEH HEJAZI.pdf','',1,'Genetic diversity of 11 populations of Dracocephalum genus (five populations of D. moldavica and six populations of D. kotschyi) was studied by an electrophoretic pattern of total proteins of leaves and investigated to determine the range of genetic diversity. The variability of leaf storage-proteins were analyzed by sodium dodecyl sulphate polyacrylamide gel electrophoresis (SDS-PAGE). Detailed protein profile analysis allows us to group the different populations and to postulate relationships among them. On the whole lot 47 reproducible bands were used for analysis and genetic diversity was estimated based on the number of different protein peptides.\r\n Populations of D. kotschyi (29652, 12938 and H2200) had the highest number of bands (11) and population D. moldavica (909) had the lowest band (1). Electrophorogram for each population were scored and Jaccard\'s similarity index (JSI) was calculated. The maximum (JSI) coefficient was between populations D. kotschyi (12938) and D. kots','Cluster analysis; Dracocephalum; Genetic variation; Lamiaceae; Principal Component Analysis; SDS-PAGE ','In summary, the diversity within and between the species was determined by using leaf storage protein\'s SDS-PAGE analysis could prove useful for the rapid classification of species of Dracocephalum genus in relation with locality of species for the first time. The application of single linkage clustering produced two large clusters within the population, each consisting of several sub clusters. \r\nThese results suggested that protein profiles data could clearly separate different populations of two species from each other. A high correlation between protein dendrogram and geographic origin of tested genotypes was found. However, as some of the populations belong to the same species, they formed two separate groups. In the present study, SDS-PAGE analysis combined with cluster analysis confirmed the genetic similarities between some populations of the same species while it also confirmed the dissimilarities between some populations of the same species as showed by the different localitie','Jaccard similarity coefficient based on total leaf proteins between the different populations has been presented in (Table 3). The highest similarity coefficient was 0.375 between of D. kotschyi (12938) and (H2200) and the lowest was zero (Table 3). Cluster analysis of Dracocephalum leaf storage proteins was performed on the results of SDS-PAGE using the software JMP software to find out the diversity among the given populations. \r\nAfter obtaining the genetic distance matrix, clustering was performed by single linkage method. According to observations, 47 Differentiated protein profiles were recognized and clustering analysis based on JSI Measures with Cophenetic correlation coefficient (r = 0.86) classified the Dracocephalum populations into six major groups at 4.24 metric distance which had separated two species from each other (Fig. 3). The highest metric distance was obtained between D. moldavica (909) and D. moldavica (1613) and the lowest metric distance was obtained between D. k','Mahdiyeh Salehi, Seyed Mohsen Hesamzadeh Hejazi and Reza Tabaei (2015) . Genetic Differentiation of two Dracocephalum (Lamiaceae) species and populations in Iran by Polyacrylamide Gel Electrophoresis , Biological Forum â€“ An International Journal 7(2): 3'),(3956,'118','The effect of repeated firing of Zirconia based porcelain on the color coordinates in vita system','Mohamad Hasan Salary, Mehran Nourbakhsh, Saeed Alizadeh, Hadi Kaseb Ghane, Mansur Babaei and Farzaneh Faraji Daneshgar','49 The effect of repeated firing of Zirconia based porcelain on the color coordinates in vita systemSAEED ALIZADEH@ FORD.pdf','',1,'There is some controversy about the effect of repeated firing of zirconia based porcelain on the color coordinates in vita system. Color matching between restoration and natural teeth is a common clinical problem. Despite careful shade selection, color of the restoration may be affected by fabrication procedures such as number of firing. The purpose of this study was to evaluate the effect of repeated firings on the color changes of dental ceramic. In this experimental in vitro study, 24 disc-shaped specimens (10 mm in diameter with 0.6 mm core thickness and 0.5 mm dentin veneering thickness) from vita ceramic system were made. Vita porcelain mixed with deionized water, applied to the core and fired at 1100oC. To guarantee the proper thickness, the specimens measured with micrometer and corrected with diamond rotary cutting instruments. Then the specimens were divided into 3 groups based on the number of firings. After repeated firing the color readings were determined with a spectroph','Repeated firing, Color coordinates, Vita dental ceramic system, zirconia base','It seems firings times affected the color of vita ceramic system where more firing times increased discoloration of zirconia based porcelain in vita system.','During the past decade ceramic restorations have become increasingly common in spite of some of their disadvantages such as brittleness, catastrophic failure and wearing of opposing teeth. They are popular because of their superior esthetic properties, biocompatibility, and longevity (Qualtrough and Piddock, 1997; Van Dijken, 1999; Peutzfeldt, 2001). They are perceived to be one of the most conservative means of restoring unaesthetic anterior teeth. During the past decades veneers were temporarily used by actors during filming; at that time adhesive systems did not exist, and therefore long-term retention was not possible (Calamia, 1989).\r\nCore veneered all-ceramic restorations are possible substitutes for the strong but less esthetic metal core sub-structures. Combining the strength of ceramic cores and superior esthetics of a weaker veneer ceramic can result in a reliable and more biocompatible restoration (Lawn et al. 2001). The introduction of zirconium dioxide or zirconia opened t','Mohamad Hasan Salary, Mehran Nourbakhsh, Saeed Alizadeh, Hadi Kaseb Ghane, Mansur Babaei and Farzaneh Faraji Daneshgar (2015). The effect of repeated firing of Zirconia based porcelain on the color coordinates in vita system , Biological Forum â€“ An In'),(3957,'118','Cropping Architect and Planting date on Forage Quantity and Quality of Ksc704 corn hybrid west of Iran','Donya Behrozi, Mohammadjavad Mirhadi and Ali Shirkhani','50 Cropping Architect and Planting date on Forage Quantity and Quality of Ksc704 corn hybrid west of IranMOHAMMADJAVAD MIRHADI@ ALI SHIRKHANI.pdf','',1,'Determination of best sowing date and cropping architect of hybrid maize for forage production as a second crop is important for livestock growers in the western Iran. There for a field and laboratory study was conducted by using of KSC 704 hybrid at Kermanshah province in 2014. A split factorial model, complete randomized block and three replications were used. The 20th, 30th June and 10th July sowing dates and cropping architects, factorial combination of 80000, 90000 and 100000 plant/hectare plus 55, 65 and 75 cm inter row spaces arranged as main and subplots respectively. Combined analysis of data showed that the 20th June sowing date and 90000 pant/ha at 65 cm inter rows space produced highest forage yield. Delay in planting date reduced forage quantity and quality. Using of higher sowing density resulted in forage quality reduction because of increasing of acid detergent fiber (ADF) and non detergent fiber (NDF) indices.\r\nNomenclature: Zea maize\r\n','Forage quality, forage quantity, cropping date, cropping architect ADF, NDF.','Delay in planting date will reduce fresh and dry yield and resulted in quality reduction of forage. Best planting density is 90000 plants /ha and using of higher density will reduce quality and quantity of silage. Better inter row space is 65 also. In addition, the 20th June planting date and using of 90000 plants/ha at 65 cm inter row spaces is recommendable for silage corn producer and livestock growers as second crop after harvesting of winter cereals and rape seed in Kermanshah province.','Corn is an important crop in conventional cropping systems of Kermanshah province, west of Iran and area of under corn cultivation is more than 35000 ha at 2014. On the other hand, area of winter crops (including bread and durum wheat, barley and rape seed) is more than 130000 ha annually and silage corn production after harvesting of winter plants, as a second crop is important and for livestock growers. Growth period of corn for forage production is shorter than grain corn production (Darby & Lauer, 2002), so it cultivation is possible in large part of country after harvest of cereal till next cropping season. Silage corn production as second crop after cereal harvest in Turkey (Iptas & Yavuz, 2008), after forage crops in Canada (Stewart, 2004) is possible. Shorter growth period of forage corn allowing delay in its planting date in contrast with grain corn (Darby & Lauer, 2002). \r\nCorn forage is an important source of feedstuff for beef and dairy cattles (Yilmaz et al., 2007). Silage','Donya Behrozi, Mohammadjavad Mirhadi and Ali Shirkhani (2015). Cropping Architect and Planting date on Forage Quantity and Quality of Ksc704 corn hybrid west of Iran , Biological Forum â€“ An International Journal 7(2): 313-317. '),(3958,'118','The role of pesticides in Parkinson disease and Integrated Pest Management','Ramin Akbari, Sara Nosrati, Maral Salek Maghsoodi, Siamak Alizadeh \r\nand Seyed Mahdi Hosseiniyan Khatibi \r\n','51 The role of pesticides in Parkinson disease and Integrated Pest ManagementSEYED MAHDI HOSSEINIYAN KHATIBI.pdf','',1,'Pesticides are chemical substances for protecting plants from weeds, bacterial, fungal, virus diseases, nematodes and insects. Although pesticides have benefits in modern agriculture, some also have drawbacks, and can cause a variety of adverse health effects, such as affecting the nervous system (Parkinson,â€¦) and also modern disease, top of them cancer. In this review, we updated the pesticide toxicity potential to human and highlight the pesticide\'s Parkinson mechanism links. Pesticides may cause acute and delayed health effects in workers who are exposed, also to all of the people may uptake daily from unorganic crops. The association of major lifestyle-related risk factors with the prevalent cases of Parkinson\'s disease (PD) have been shown that ongoing exposure to herbicides and pesticides may put us at a slightly increased risk of Parkinson\'s disease. So, alternatives to pesticides should be seriously followed of the integrated pest management strategies. ','Parkinson, Pesticides, Integrated Pest Management','Pesticides are chemical substances for protecting plants from weeds, bacterial, fungal, virus diseases, nematodes and insects. Although pesticides have benefits in modern agriculture, some also have drawbacks, and can cause a variety of adverse health effects, such as affecting the nervous system (Parkinson,â€¦) and also modern disease, top of them cancer. In this review, we updated the pesticide toxicity potential to human and highlight the pesticide\'s Parkinson mechanism links. Pesticides may cause acute and delayed health effects in workers who are exposed, also to all of the people may uptake daily from unorganic crops. The association of major lifestyle-related risk factors with the prevalent cases of Parkinson\'s disease (PD) have been shown that ongoing exposure to herbicides and pesticides may put us at a slightly increased risk of Parkinson\'s disease. So, alternatives to pesticides should be seriously followed of the integrated pest management strategies. ','A. Risk factors for Parkinson\'s disease\r\nParkinson\'s disease (PD) is a common idiopathic, neurodegenerative disorder that produces slow bodily movements, muscular rigidity, frequent tremor of resting limbs, and loss of postural balance (Priyadarshi et al., 2001), and usually characterized by the presence of a-synuclein containing Lewy bodies in damaged neurons. it is the second most common neurodegenerative disease, affecting 1% of the population over 55 years of age (Lees et al., 2009). Epidemiological studies suggest that environmental as well as lifestyle-related factors may be important for the development of Parkinson\'s disease (PD). \r\nYoung adults rarely experience Parkinson\'s disease indeed, risk increases with age. People usually develop the disease around age 60 or older. Heredity is the second risk factor for Parkinson\'s disease. Although there is increasing evidence that genetic factors may also play a role in the etiology of PD, this likely involves interaction with environ','Ramin Akbari, Sara Nosrati, Maral Salek Maghsoodi, Siamak Alizadeh* \r\nand Seyed Mahdi Hosseiniyan Khatibi (2015). The role of pesticides in Parkinson disease and Integrated Pest Management , Biological Forum â€“ An International Journal 7(2): 318'),(3959,'118','Chemical Composition of Eucalyptus globulus grown in Iran','Vahid Abdossi, Elaheh Yaghooti Moghaddam* and Amin Hadipanah','52 Chemical Composition of Eucalyptus globulus grown in IranELAHEH YAGHOOTI MOGHADDAM.pdf','',1,'Eucalyptus (family, Myrtaceae) is one of the world\'s most widely planted genera. The aim of this study was to identify of the chemical components of Eucalyptus globules grown in Iran. The aerial parts of the plants were collected from Tehran province in 2014. The essential oil was extracted by a Clevenger approach and analyzed using GC/MS. In total, twenty three compounds were identified in the essential oil from the aerial parts Eucalyptus globulus. The results obtained in our study indicated that the major components in the oil were 1,8-cineole (76.65%), É‘-Pinene (5.65%), Î±-terpineol acetate (4.85%) and alloaromadendrene (3.98%).','Eucalyptus globulus, Chemical Composition, GC-MS','In conclusion, the results obtained in our study indicated that the major components of oil of Eucalyptus globules collected from Tehran were1,8-cineole, É‘-Pinene, Î±-terpineol acetate and alloaromadendrene. \r\nThe results indicated that essential oils and their chemical compositions of Eucalyptus globules are strongly affected by environmental conditions and agronomic management practices. \r\n','Eucalyptus (family, Myrtaceae) is one of the world\'s most widely planted genera (Batish et al., 2008). Eucalyptus globulus Labill, commonly referred to as Tasmanian Blue Gum, is a fast growing, evergreentree, bearing pendant leaves, native to Tasmania and south-east Australia (Oyedeji et al., 1999). The genus Eucalyptus, which is indigenous to Australia, consists of over 800 species and spreads worldwide due to its easy adaptability and fast growth (Coppen, 2002). Eucalyptus has been prized a rich source of essential oils. Essential oils of various species have been used in the pharmaceutical, cosmetics (Tsiri et al., 2003), food (Jae-Seoun et al., 2000), industries and medicinal purposes (Giamakis et al., 2001). The minimum 1,8-cineole content of pharmaceutical-grade Eucalyptus essential oil as defined in most standards is 70% (Barton et al., 1989). \r\nSince morphological characteristics can vary under different agroclimatic conditions, interactions between genotype and environment (Sa','Vahid Abdossi, Elaheh Yaghooti Moghaddam* and Amin Hadipanah (2015). Chemical Composition of Eucalyptus globulus grown in Iran, Biological Forum â€“ An International Journal 7(2): 322-324'),(3960,'118','Introduction of Attractive Organisms as Robust Photo-Bioreactors for Support of Life in Space','Siamak Alizadeh, Sara Nosrati, Maral Salek Maghsoodi\r\nand Seyed Mahdi Hosseiniyan Khatibi\r\n','53 Introduction of Attractive Organisms as Robust Photo-Bioreactors for Support of Life in SpaceSEYED MAHDI HOSSEINIYAN KHATIBI-2.pdf','',1,'At the present era, planetary researches draw vast attention toward foundation of efficient life support systems to establish a suitable living condition while human flies into the space. So setting up such an appropriate system need to consider the status of the refining and recycling of air and water, and define of efficient food continuum on various planets and on the space stations. Although we should exploit the evolution flow of biogenesis in the earth, which was mainly originated from the bacteria, cyanobacteria, and eukaryotic microalgae, many of researches were conducted toward chemical and physical means of O2 and H2O production or in the case of food, we have to transport it from the earth. Superior to many of these modalities, recently the biological life support system like using special plants, establishment of greenhouse, and using of genetically modified plants proposed as promising systems in the space missions. However all of the above mentioned systems are in bench-s','Space Life support system, Photo-Bioreactor, Dunaliella, Spirulina, Probiotic bacteria, Artemia ','At the present era, planetary researches draw vast attention toward foundation of efficient life support systems to establish a suitable living condition while human flies into the space. So setting up such an appropriate system need to consider the status of the refining and recycling of air and water, and define of efficient food continuum on various planets and on the space stations. Although we should exploit the evolution flow of biogenesis in the earth, which was mainly originated from the bacteria, cyanobacteria, and eukaryotic microalgae, many of researches were conducted toward chemical and physical means of O2 and H2O production or in the case of food, we have to transport it from the earth. Superior to many of these modalities, recently the biological life support system like using special plants, establishment of greenhouse, and using of genetically modified plants proposed as promising systems in the space missions. However all of the above mentioned systems are in bench-s','Curiosity sense of mankind makes him step on other globes and surge to conquer them, Hence new investigation have been conducted toward finding an ideal life supporting system as a fundamental need of space travels and even colonization or establishment of a new civilization up there. It is worth noting that the essential demand of space such as water, food and energy supply could be obviated in three ways, i.e. by providing supplies from the earth for the short duration of the mission, by affording the necessities by physical/chemical methods, by regenerating the habitat using biological methods. Reviewing many of capable approaches and considering the NASA hint, the Advanced Life Support (ALS) system should be based on the most promising modality of bioregenerative life support technologies in the foreseeable future. Obviously the way en route to the human biological autonomy should go through the gate of photosynthesis, i.e. photosynthesis at least in the earth is the foremost gener','Siamak Alizadeh, Sara Nosrati, Maral Salek Maghsoodi and Seyed Mahdi Hosseiniyan Khatibi (2015). Introduction of Attractive Organisms as Robust Photo-Bioreactors for Support of Life in Space , Biological Forum â€“ An International Journal 7(2): 325-334 .'),(3961,'118','Effect of Geographical Cultivating Directions and Density of Bulbs on Yield and Yield Components of Saffron (Crocus sativus L.) in Dry Land Farming condition in Damavand','Keyvan Kianimanesh, Seyedreza Tabaei Aghdaei and Mohammad Hosein Lebaschi','54 Effect of Geographical Cultivating Directions and Density of Bulbs on Yield and Yield Components of Saffron _Crocus sativus L._ in Dry Land Farming condition in DamavandSEYED TABATABAEI AGHDAEI.pdf','',1,'Effects of plant density and Geographical cultivating direction on saffron (Crocus sativus) yield and yield components were studied in dry land condition in 2014-2015 using a split plot experiment in the form of a randomized complete block design with six treatments, three replications and 18 plots in the Hamand Experimental Station of the Research Institute of Forest and Rangeland, Damavand, Iran. According to the variance analysis, density of bulbs, cultivating direction and their interaction revealed significant effects on different traits. The north-south direction caused maximum yield of stigma 1129.4 (g.ha-1). Also density of 45 bulbs per m2 led to additive effect on yield of stigma (1103.2 g.ha-1). The interaction of 45 bulbs density with north-south cultivating directions had maximum average of yield of stigma (1483.2 g.ha-1). This research demonstrated that density of bulbs along with cultivating direction affects performance of saffron cultivated in dry land conditions and h','Saffron performance, density, cultivating direction, dry land.','Effects of plant density and Geographical cultivating direction on saffron (Crocus sativus) yield and yield components were studied in dry land condition in 2014-2015 using a split plot experiment in the form of a randomized complete block design with six treatments, three replications and 18 plots in the Hamand Experimental Station of the Research Institute of Forest and Rangeland, Damavand, Iran. According to the variance analysis, density of bulbs, cultivating direction and their interaction revealed significant effects on different traits. The north-south direction caused maximum yield of stigma 1129.4 (g.ha-1). Also density of 45 bulbs per m2 led to additive effect on yield of stigma (1103.2 g.ha-1). The interaction of 45 bulbs density with north-south cultivating directions had maximum average of yield of stigma (1483.2 g.ha-1). This research demonstrated that density of bulbs along with cultivating direction affects performance of saffron cultivated in dry land conditions and h','Reductions of Water is most limiting factor in arid and semi-arid areas and make balancing between water resources and water of plants is main factor to increasing plants production efficiency. Thus the water resources management requires the maximum water productivity per unit. Selection and cultivation of resistant medicinal plants to dry conditions are one of the important components of development and production of medicinal plants as the alternative cultivation systems for annual crops. The vegetation of perennial medicinal plants could prevent of soil Erosion which is made by annual plowing. Promoting of dry land farming of medicinal plants in sloping agricultural land and other kinds of farm lands can cause an improvement in the maintenance and restoration of dry land farming systems (Lebaschi 2008). Crocus sativus L. (saffron) is a Perennial plant without stems which is member of the Iridaceae family. Iridaceae contain 9 species in Iran include saffron. Saffron is an important ','Keyvan Kianimanesh, Seyedreza Tabaei Aghdaei and Mohammad Hosein Lebaschi (2015). Effect of Geographical Cultivating Directions and Density of Bulbs on Yield and Yield Components of Saffron (Crocus sativus L.) in Dry Land Farming condition in Damavand , '),(3962,'118','The effects of Wheat with and without enzyme on apparent ileal digestibility coefficient of Ca, P, Cu, Mn, Fe, and Zn in Broilers','Ali Ghodrat, Akbar Yaghobfar, Yahya Ebrahimnezhad, Habib Aghdam Shahryar, and Abolfazl Ghorbani\r\n','55 The effects of Wheat with and without enzyme on apparent ileal digestibility coefficient of Ca, P, Cu, Mn, Fe, and Zn in BroilersAKBAR YAGHOBFAR @ ALI GHODRAT.pdf','',1,'The study was conducted on ninety six one-day Ross (308) broiler chicken to investigate the effect of wheat with and without enzyme supplementation on apparent ileal digestibility coefficient of Ca, P, Cu, Mn, Fe, and Zn in (Ross) Broilers. Chicks were allotted into 4 equal groups (24 chicks of mixed sex per group in metabolic cages). Two experimental diets were formulated, basal diet containing 10% and 15% wheat with and without enzyme supplementation from 1 to 21 day and 15% and 20% wheat with and without enzyme supplementation from 21 to 42 day together control diet. The results indicated that the diets contained wheat led to decrease in mineral digestibility. Enzyme supplementation improved the apparent ileal digestibility coefficient of minerals of broilers from 1 to 42 d.','Enzyme, NSP, Broilers, apparent ileal digestibility coefficient of minerals.','The study was conducted on ninety six one-day Ross (308) broiler chicken to investigate the effect of wheat with and without enzyme supplementation on apparent ileal digestibility coefficient of Ca, P, Cu, Mn, Fe, and Zn in (Ross) Broilers. Chicks were allotted into 4 equal groups (24 chicks of mixed sex per group in metabolic cages). Two experimental diets were formulated, basal diet containing 10% and 15% wheat with and without enzyme supplementation from 1 to 21 day and 15% and 20% wheat with and without enzyme supplementation from 21 to 42 day together control diet. The results indicated that the diets contained wheat led to decrease in mineral digestibility. Enzyme supplementation improved the apparent ileal digestibility coefficient of minerals of broilers from 1 to 42 d.','Corn is a major ingredient (above 50%) in broiler diets, contributing about 65% of broiler ME requirements. However, increasing corn prices by reason of its preferential diversion toward human consumption and corn ethanol industry have compelled the poultry industry to reduce reliance on corn. Despite numerous scientific investigations no alternative grain to corn has yet been identified. The use of wheat and grain in broiler feed is limited by the presence of soluble non-starch polysaccharides, particularly xylans, arabinoxylans and Beta- glucans components (Pourreza et al., 2007). Majority of coarse cereals in poultry diets contains high fiber and low energy (Rama-Rao et al., 2004). It is recognized that poultry diets contain variable levels of poorly digested NSP including arabinoxylans, Beta-glucons and pectin (Campbell and Bedford, 1992) that possess chemical cross-linking between them and minerals by poultry (Adams and Pough, 1993). Poultry produce a number of enzymes, including ','Ali Ghodrat, Akbar Yaghobfar, Yahya Ebrahimnezhad, Habib Aghdam Shahryar, and Abolfazl Ghorbani (2015). The effects of Wheat with and without enzyme on apparent ileal digestibility coefficient of Ca, P, Cu, Mn, Fe, and Zn in Broilers, Biological Forum â'),(3963,'118','Effect of application of sewage sludge and two synthetic humic acids on selected chemical properties of three soils','A. Jafarzadeh Ghahdarijani, M. Kalbasi and A. Mohammadi Ghehsareh','56 Effect of application of sewage sludge and two synthetic humic acids on selected chemical properties of three soilsA. JAFARZADEH GHAHDARIJANI.pdf','',1,'In order to compare the effects of sewage sludge and synthetic humic materials application on selected soil chemical properties, an incubation experiment was carried out in a completely randomized design with 10 treatments and three replications under greenhouse conditions. Results showed that the application of these organic materials increased EC, SOM and CEC but decreased pH significantly compared to the control. The extent of these changes depended on soil type, kind of treatment and application rates. the changes were usually significant at the application rate of 4%. In this regard, the effect of sewage sludge was more than humic acids.','Humic acids, sewage sludge, soil chemical properties.','Results obtained in this study showed that application of sewage sludge and humic acids increased EC, SOM and CEC and decreased pH in 3 soils with different textures. The extent of these changes depended on kind and rate of amendments application and soil texture. Since SS is less expensive and showed similar or sometimes better results in amending soil chemical qualities then it is economically preferable compared to the humic acids. However, application of SS can results in heavy metal, chemical and microbial pollution of soil and could be environmentally harmful in long run. With respect to limited sources of organic fertilizers in Iran use of synthetic humic materials is recommended. More research is required to investigate long term application of humic materials on soil physical, chemical and biological properties. ','In arid and semi-arid regions such as Iran, the distinct feature of most cultivated soils are low organic matter content and, generally, have poor productivity. Consequently, soil application of organic wastes and humic materials to supply at least a part of the plant nutrient requirement and improve the physical and chemical properties of soil is highly important (Maftoun and Moshiri, 2008). Use of wastes in agriculture and land reclamation has been increasingly gained importance for soil fertility, soil conservation and residue disposal. Using wastes in agriculture helps not only to dispose these materials economically, but also reduces negative effects of these materials on the environment. Sewage sludge, due to its high content of organic matter and plant nutrients, is considered as an effective material to improve soil fertility (Sort and AlcaÃ±iz, 1999; Tsadilas et al., 2005; Weber, 2007). Shuman (1998) reported that sewage sludge increased the soil\'s cation exchange capacity (CE','A. Jafarzadeh Ghahdarijani, M. Kalbasi and A. Mohammadi Ghehsareh (2015). Effect of application of sewage sludge and two synthetic humic acids on selected chemical properties of three soils . Biological Forum â€“ An International Journal 7(2): 344-348 '),(3964,'118','Identification of Pythium species and their pathogenicity on cool season turfgrass in Tehran province','Maryam Khodashenas Rudsari, Seyed Mahmoud Okhovat, Mansoure Mirabolfathi, Eirian Jones and Mohsen Kafi','57 Identification of Pythium species and their pathogenicity on cool season turfgrass in Tehran provinceMARYAM KHODASHENAS RUDSARI.pdf','',1,'Turfgrasses have been widely used in many residential areas and sport fields for many years. Pythium species can cause severe losses on cereals and other crops as well as ornamental plants such as turfgrass. To study the role of Pythium species in causing seed and root rot and damping-off, plant and soil samples were collected from different regions of Tehran province. Isolates were identified on the basis of morphological characters and cardinal temperature. Pathogenicity of the recovered species was determined on common cool season turfgrasses (Loliumperenne, Poaparatensis and Festucaarundinaceae). Of the 48 recovered Pythium isolates, three species were identified include 66.7% P. aphanidermatum, 18.7% P. catenulatum and 14.6% P. okanoganense. Comparative pathogenicity of Pythium species (total diseases) on turfgrasses showed that P.aphanidermatum was the most aggressive species and P. catenulatum and P. okanoganens were in second and third levels respectively.','Festuca- Lolium-Poa-total diseases','Turfgrasses have been widely used in many residential areas and sport fields for many years. Pythium species can cause severe losses on cereals and other crops as well as ornamental plants such as turfgrass. To study the role of Pythium species in causing seed and root rot and damping-off, plant and soil samples were collected from different regions of Tehran province. Isolates were identified on the basis of morphological characters and cardinal temperature. Pathogenicity of the recovered species was determined on common cool season turfgrasses (Loliumperenne, Poaparatensis and Festucaarundinaceae). Of the 48 recovered Pythium isolates, three species were identified include 66.7% P. aphanidermatum, 18.7% P. catenulatum and 14.6% P. okanoganense. Comparative pathogenicity of Pythium species (total diseases) on turfgrasses showed that P.aphanidermatum was the most aggressive species and P. catenulatum and P. okanoganens were in second and third levels respectively.','Nowadays, turf grassis used for production of green space in homes, business buildings, airports, highways and sport fields. Turf grasses used in this way has many benefits, for example, they reduce air and noise pollution, control soil erosion and eliminate dust (Kafi and Kaviani 2002). Moreover, the relaxing effects of turfgrass on human cannot be denied (Beard and Green 1994). Turfgrasses are monocots plant that belonged to Poaceae family. Based on their temperature range for growth, they can be divided into two groups: cool- season and warm-season grass.. Regarding to the weather condition in our investigation area (Iran, Tehran), the most common cool season turfgrass used are Poa, Festuca and Lolium. According to turfgrass important role in green space and sport field and its demonstrated usefulness, their maintenance is necessary and need to be concentrated. Due to high cost of turfgrass establishment and maintenance, and environmental problem of improper pesticide application, i','Maryam Khodashenas Rudsari, Seyed Mahmoud Okhovat, Mansoure Mirabolfathi, Eirian Jones and Mohsen Kafi (2015). Identification of Pythium species and their pathogenicity on cool season turfgrass in Tehran province , Biological Forum â€“ An International '),(3965,'118','Comparative Study of air particulate matter concentrations in different traffic stressed sites of Quetta City, with special reference to their harmful impact on human health','Tahira Ishtiaq, Nelofer Jamil, Zubia Masood, Ayesha Mushtaq and Zahoor Ahmed Bazai','58 Comparative Study of air particulate matter concentrations in different traffic stressed sites of Quetta City, with special reference to their harmful impact on human healthDR ZUBIA MASOOD -2.pdf','',1,'Quetta is the most polluted city among the other big cities of Pakistan as it contain dangerous atmospheric air pollutant particles, therefore, Quetta city is ranked at number four along with Ludhiana tied at 251mcg/m3. The present study brings together methodological and substantive contributions in the estimation of air pollution in Quetta city of Balochistan province of Pakistan and their harmful effects on human health. These air pollutants includes lead, carbon monoxide (CO), carbon dioxide (CO2), ammonia (NH3), nitrogen dioxide (NO2), particulate matter (PM) and sulphur dioxide (SO2) release in the atmospheric environment of Quetta city from the different resources i.e., motor vehicles/automobiles, coal burning, bomb blasting , kiln backing in furnaces and natural gas burning. The methodology was based on Quettaâ€™s ambient air pollution in which the concentration of NO2, pollutant TSP, PM10 and PM2.5 at three most traffic stressed sampling sites (Meezan Chowk, Alamdar Chowk and ','Quetta city, air particulate matter concentrations, impact on human health.','In the present study, Itâ€™s difficult to measures the air pollution parameters and their effect on local human population in Quetta city. From the results it was concluded that the data based on the traffic stress sites is producing high level of air pollutants in these sampling sites of Quetta city. Three sampling sites of this research report i.e., Meezan Chowk, Alamdar road, Sirki road showed that pollutants such as TSP, N20, Pm10, Pm2.5 are present in the air of Quetta City due to the traffic stressed, which are producing health serious effects like blood pressure, ENT (eye, nose and throat), fatigue, diseases like asthma, cardiovascular and cancer in local populations. Hence, after this study, we can easily notify that people have lack information about the air pollution and its effects. As the air quality is badly effecting by auto-emission, so there is need to enhance the knowledge about the air pollution and its injurious impact into local communities. Furthermore, stander a','Quetta, the capital and largest city of Baluchistan Province, Quetta, 1692 meters above sea level is a cup shaped valley covered from all dry mountains has population of about 1.4 million. Increasing automobiles traffic in the city and use of agriculture land for constructing buildings has spoiled the environment of the city. The major sources of air pollutants entering the municipal district of Quetta area are old poorly maintained diesel engine local buses running between city and suburbs, two stroke petrol engine rickshaws fueled by lubricating oil, the oily exhaust smoke and benzene constitute the main hazards. Since there is no \r\n\r\ncontrol of exhaust gases, they emit black smoke of incomplete combustion fuel all over the city. In addition to motor vehicles, industrial enterprises situated within the city, thermal power station, stone crusher plants, and brick kilns contribute substantially to the atmospheric pollution of Quetta. Quetta also situated in arid zone therefore, dry wea','Tahira Ishtiaq, Nelofer Jamil, Zubia Masood, Ayesha Mushtaq and Zahoor Ahmed Bazai (2015). Comparative Study of air particulate matter concentrations in different traffic stressed sites of Quetta City, with special reference to their harmful impact on h'),(3966,'118','Effect of Clinoptilolite and Heavy Metal Application on Some Physiological Characteristics of Annual Alfalfa in Contaminated Soil','Tahereh Hasanabadi, Shahram Lack, Mohammad Reza Ardakani, Hosein Ghafurian and Adel Modhej\r\n','59 Effect of Clinoptilolite and Heavy Metal Application on Some Physiological Characteristics of Annual Alfalfa in Contaminated SoilTAHEREH HASANABADI @ DR KIYAN.pdf','',1,'Heavy metal pollution in air and agricultural soils is one of the most important ecological problems in the whole world. In this experiment, the effect of zeolite adsorbents in five levels and two heavy metals (lead and cadmium, each one in four levels) was tested on heavy metals absorption of Medicago scutellata L. The experiment was conducted in factorial in the form of a randomized complete design with three replications and two treatments, in 2013, at the Agriculture and Natural Recourse Research Center of Islamic Azad University, Karaj, Iran. Results indicated that the best biomass was related to applying the highest rate of zeolite and increased 65% compared with the control. Results of this study indicated that zeolite was able to decrease the amount of uptake and transmission of lead and cadmium in plant and with decreasing the harmful effects of these elements cause to increase the growth traits, protein and uptake of nutrient in plant. So, zeolite can be used in order to decr','cadmium, lead, Medicago scutellata L., yield, zeolite.','Results of the present study can be used for predicting the efficiency of zeolite application for the remediation of contaminated soils. Our findings indicated a general negative influence of Cd and Pb contamination on growth parameters but in contrast zeolite could ameliorate the adverse effects of heavy metals such as Pb and Cd and improve the overall growth responses.','The release of heavy metals into the environment is a potential threat to water and soil quality as well as to plant, animal and human health. As heavy metal elements cannot be destroyed chemically, therefore, approaches to treat metal-contaminated waters and soils must aim at methods to reduce the availability of polluting heavy metals, e.g. by precipitation of insoluble compounds, sorption to solids or extraction. Heavy metals, especially those acting as soft Lewis acids like Hg, Pb, and Cd, are known to have a high affinity to sulfur (Nooney et al., 2001). Many toxic heavy metals have been discharged into the environment as industrial wastes, causing serious soil and water pollution (Lin et al., 2002). Pb+2, Cu+2, Fe+3, and Cr+3 are especially common metals that tend to accumulate in organisms, causing numerous diseases and disorders (Inglezakis et al., 2003). They are also common groundwater contaminants at industrial and military installations. Numerous processes exist for removin','Tahereh Hasanabadi, Shahram Lack, Mohammad Reza Ardakani, Hosein Ghafurian and Adel Modhej (2015). Effect of Clinoptilolite and Heavy Metal Application on Some Physiological Characteristics of Annual Alfalfa in Contaminated Soil , Biological Forum â€“ An'),(3967,'118','Determination of Vitamin C content in Citrus Fruits and in Non-Citrus Fruits by Titrimetric method, with special reference to their nutritional importance in Human diet','Huma Tareen, Fariha Mengal, Zubia Masood, Rabia Mengal, Sana Ahmed, Sherino Bibi, Sara Shoaib, Uzma Sami, Fazila Mandokhail, Musarat Riaz, Nida Farman and Zainab Nawaz','60Determination of Vitamin C content in Citrus Fruits and in Non-Citrus Fruits by Titrimetric method, with special reference to their nutritional importance in Human dietDR ZUBIA MASOOD.pdf','',1,'The objective of this study was to determine the Vitamin C content in citrus fruits (orange, grape fruit, lemon) and non-citrus fruits (mango and papaya) purchased randomly from local market found at Saryab road of Quetta city in province Balochistan of Pakistan in order to analyzed their Vitamin C content by titrimetrically. During the present study, method used for the determination of Vitamin C content was cheap, accurate and can also be used for routine analysis. The results of present study indicated that the concentration of vitamin C in each fruit was found to be i.e., Orange (12.78mg/100ml), Grapefruit (10.9mg/100ml), Lemon (12.68mg/100ml), Mango (7.84mg/100ml) and Papaya (9.31mg/100ml). From the results, it can be concluded that among non-citrus fruits, papaya contain higher concentration of vitamin C than in mango; while among citrus fruits, orange was proved to be have high content of vitamin C. thus, it had been proved that present work is valuable for providing information','Vitamin C, Titrimetric method, citrus and non-citrus fruits.','From the obtained results, it can be concluded that among five different fruits used in the present study, papaya and orange was proved to contain high content of vitamin C determined by titrimetric method. Vitamin C or ascorbic acid is important for the human body, since these fruits are always available in local markets and they are also not expensive. So, the considerable amount of vitamin C presents in these fruits showed that when they are consumed in relative large amount, they will certainly contribute to the daily human dietary intake of the vitamin. Hence, it had been proved that that fresh fruits and their fresh juices contain more vitamin C content as compared to artificial juices and drinks because fruit is pickled fresh, not stored, preserved or exposed to air, So they are valuable in Human diet for getting Vitamin C in their diet.','Citrus fruits are one of the most important sources of food and medicine. Fruits are divided into two classes climacteric and non-climacteric based on their pattern through ripening. In climacteric category are the bananas, pears and avocados while in non-climacteric category are the grapefruit, lemon, orange, melon, pineapple and the strawberry (Thurlor. and Lumley, 1989).\r\nVitamin C is defined as hexuronic acid, cevitamin acid or xiloascorbic acid. The term vitamin C is commonly used to describe all these compounds even though the representative of which is ascorbic acid (Jose and MarÃa-Del, 2013). Ascorbic acid is the most abundant vitamin in orange, lemon and grapefruit (Ralph and Bender, 2000). Ascorbic acid is also known as Vitamin C or L-ascorbic acid or antiscorbutic vitamin. More than 90% of the vitamin C in Human diets is supplied by fruits and vegetables. It is synthesized by most organisms from glucose but man and other primates and various other species must obtain it f','Huma Tareen, Fariha Mengal, Zubia Masood, Rabia Mengal, Sana Ahmed, Sherino Bibi, Sara Shoaib, Uzma Sami, Fazila Mandokhail, Musarat Riaz, Nida Farman and Zainab Nawaz (2015). Determination of Vitamin C content in Citrus Fruits and in Non-Citrus Fruits by'),(3968,'118','Biochemical and Physiological Characteristics Changes of Wheat Cultivars under Arbuscular Mycorrhizal Symbiosis and Salinity Stress','Rosa Ghoochani, Mehrnaz Riasat, Sima Rahimi and Amir Rahmani','61 Biochemical and Physiological Characteristics Changes of Wheat Cultivars under Arbuscular Mycorrhizal Symbiosis and Salinity StressROSA GHOOCHANI.pdf','',1,'This study was performed to evaluate changes in antioxidant enzymes activity, free proline, relative water content (RWC) and physiological traits of four wheat (Triticum aestivum L) cultivars (Akbari and Darab) inoculated with Arbuscular Mycorrhizal (AM) fungus, Glomus intraradices, under three salinity stress including control (without salinity), 7 and14 ds m-1. All growth parameters including shoot fresh weight (10.17%), shoot (15.6%) and root (25.2%) dry weight were higher in inoculated plants compared to non-inoculated ones. Salinity stress decreased root colonization percent and the highest root colonization observed in the cultivar Abari. Mycorrhizal inoculation enhanced RWC, proline content, pigment content, total protein, superoxide dismutase activity (SOD), peroxidase activity (POD) and catalase activity (CAT). The higher POD (9.77 Umg-1), SOD (19.80 Umg-1) and CAT (9.82 Umg-1) obtained for Akbari cultivar than Darab cultivar. Salinity stress enhanced activity of all enzymes. ','Antioxidant, Glomus intraradices, Osmotic adjustment, Antioxidant,','The results showed that AM symbiosis had significant effects on wheat physiological traits and antioxidant enzymes activity. It seems that the AM symbiosis increases osmotic adjustment by enhancing accumulation of free proline in shoots that could contribute in maintaining more water in the shoots. Higher activities of antioxidant enzymes in inoculated cultivars caused more productivity and protect plants cells from deleterious effects of salinity stress. The results also indicated that inoculating wheat cultivars with Glomus intraradices can alleviate the deleterious effects of salinity stress through improving osmotic adjustment via accumulation of more proline and increasing the activity of antioxidant enzymes. The cultivar Abari had higher antioxidant activity than other cultivar (Darab) and consequently can be used in wheat breeding programs for salinity stress.','The symbiosis of plants and microorganisms plays an important role in sustainable agriculture and natural ecosystems. Interactions between plants and AM fungi results in disease and/or the mutualistic symbiosis (GarcÃa-Garrido and Ocampo 2002). Penetration to the root and the intracellular growth of the AM fungi involve complex sequences of biochemical and cytological events and intracellular modifications (Bonfante 2001).\r\nIt has been proven that AM fungi affect not only the plant growth but also contribute in plant tolerance to biotic and abiotic stresses (AugÃ© 2001). These fungi are obligatory symbiotic soil organisms that colonize roots of most crops and improve their performance (Saed-moucheshi et al. 2013) by increasing nutrients supply to the plants and reducing abiotic stress\'s effects (Qiu-Dan et al. 2013). \r\nIt has been reported that plant inoculation with mycorrhizal fungi increases antioxidant enzymes in shoots and roots (Alguacil et al. 2003). On the other hand, mechanis','Rosa Ghoochani, Mehrnaz Riasat, Sima Rahimi and Amir Rahmani (2015). Biochemical and Physiological Characteristics Changes of Wheat Cultivars under Arbuscular Mycorrhizal Symbiosis and Salinity Stress , Biological Forum â€“ An International Journal 7(2):'),(3969,'118','Designing Theoretical Model of Strategic Management of Agricultural Knowledge and Information Extension for Empowering Farmers in Iran (A Case Study; Agriculture Jihad Specialists of Alborz and Tehran Province)','Hosna Miladi, Iraj Malekmohammadi, Mohammad Chizari and Seyed Mahmood Hosseini','62 Designing Theoretical Model of Strategic Management of Agricultural Knowledge and Information Extension for Empowering Farmers in Iran _A Case Study; Agriculture Jihad Specialists of Alborz and Tehran PrHOSNA MILADI.pdf','',1,'The purpose of this research was to design theoretical model of strategic management of agricultural knowledge and information extension for empowering farmers. This study used qualitative research method. The research method was an exploratory method and instrument development model was used in order to measure strategic management. Target population included 161field and official experts of Agriculture Jihad Organization of Alborz and Tehran Province. The main instrument for data collection was an open-ended questionnaire (protocol).Based on data gathered through documents, electronic and field research (interview) theoretical model of this study were drawn.','Theoretical Model, Strategic Management, Knowledge and Information, Empowerment Farmers.','The purpose of this research was to design theoretical model of strategic management of agricultural knowledge and information extension for empowering farmers. This study used qualitative research method. The research method was an exploratory method and instrument development model was used in order to measure strategic management. Target population included 161field and official experts of Agriculture Jihad Organization of Alborz and Tehran Province. The main instrument for data collection was an open-ended questionnaire (protocol).Based on data gathered through documents, electronic and field research (interview) theoretical model of this study were drawn.','Agriculture is considered the most important and essential part of human life and imagination supplies the developed world is not possible without agriculture, While the development of agriculture without farmers lack access to knowledge and information and farmers are aware of the current issues in agriculture not be reached. So, agricultural development means human development (Marsh, 2001). Hence, Attaining to this should be priority of organizational activities and programs in the agricultural sector (Dinpanah and Amouei, 2013).\r\nNowadays, strategy of empowerment is regarded as a very important step in the process of organizational development which enables persons to cope with the external threats. Of course, it is regarded as one of the main shortcomings of modern organizations involved in development as well, such as agriculture extension. The Perspectives of agricultural extension has a high capacity to scientific and technological empowerment of many farmers in developing coun','Hosna Miladi, Iraj Malekmohammadi, Mohammad Chizari and Seyed Mahmood Hosseini (2015). Designing Theoretical Model of Strategic Management of Agricultural Knowledge and Information Extension for Empowering Farmers in Iran (A Case Study; Agriculture Jihad'),(3970,'118','Green tea consumption improves the therapeutic efficacy of deferoxamine on iron overload in patients with Î²-thalassemia major: a randomized clinical study','Mahdieh Sadat Badiee, Hossein Nili-Ahmadabadi, Hamed Zeinvand-Lorestani\r\nand Amir Nili-Ahmadabadi\r\n','63 Green tea consumption improves the therapeutic efficacy of deferoxamine on iron overload in patients with Î²-thalassemia major a randomized clinical studyDR AMIR NILI-AHMADABADI.pdf','',1,'Green tea (Camellia sinensis) is an important medicinal plants due to its potent antioxidant effects and metal chelating properties. This study was designed to explore the effects of green tea (GT) against iron overload in Î²-thalassemia major (TM) patients who were under regular chelation therapy with deferoxamine (DFO). Based on the standard method, 14 TM patients were, randomly, selected and their blood samples were collected immediately before and one month after GT administration (12 gr/day). Then, the blood levels of iron, ferritin, total iron-binding capacity (TIBC), lipid peroxidation (LPO), and hematological profile were determined.\r\nA significant decrease in the levels of iron (p<0.001), ferritin (p<0.01), LPO (p<0.001) and white blood cells (p<0.05) and a remarkable increase in TIBC levels (p<0.001) were noticed in the blood samples of TM patients thirty days after GT therapy while no significant changes were observed in the other hematological parameters. GT could be used a','Green tea, Iron, Î²-thalassemia major, Oxidative stress','Taking collectively, co-administration of DFO and GT possesses the potential to decrease toxic iron levels, reduce oxidative stress, and thereby improves DFO therapy in TM patients','-thalassemia major (TM) is a widespread genetic disorder (Weeraphan et al., 2013). TM patients suffer a partial or complete lack of ability for synthesize of hemoglobin Î²-chains which leads to insufficient hemoglobin content, less red blood cells (RBCs) production, and the subsequent anemia (Gharagozloo et al., 2014; Kukreja et al., 2013). Iran is located on the world thalassemia belt (Miri et al., 2013) such that according to the report of Iran\'s Ministry of Health, the average prevalence of TM has been estimated to be 3.6% in this country (Zeinalian et al., 2013).\r\nOne of the major consequences of this syndrome is iron overload due to ineffective erythropoiesis and overall hemolysis in main organs such as blood, liver, heart, and endocrine glands (Kukreja et al., 2013; Hoffbrand, 2001]. Although, iron is critical trace element of biological systems such as enzymes and metalloproteins (Kasperczyk et al., 2015), its toxicity may predispose TM patients to oxidative stress (Kassab-Cheki','Mahdieh Sadat Badiee, Hossein Nili-Ahmadabadi, Hamed Zeinvand-Lorestani and Amir Nili-Ahmadabadi (2015). Green tea consumption improves the therapeutic efficacy of deferoxamine on iron overload in patients with Î²-thalassemia major: a randomized clinical'),(3971,'118','The Effect of Priming, Growth Regulators and Calcium on Yield and Some Physiological Traits of Maize under Drought Stress','Javad Nejat, Ahmad Naderi, Yahya Emam, Adel Modhej and Alireza Bagheri','64 The Effect of Priming, Growth Regulators and Calcium on Yield and Some Physiological Traits of Maize under Drought StressJAVAD NEJAT @ DR KIYANI.pdf','',1,'Drought like many other environmental stress, has adverse effects on crop production. Low water availability is one of the major causes for crop yield reductions which affect agricultural production globally. This experiment was conducted to study the effect of seed priming with growth regulators, calcium fertilizer application and drought stress on maize (Zea mays L. SC 704). The factors were: drought stress in three levels (normal irrigation, irrigation after 50% depletion of easily accessible water; moderate stress, irrigation after 60% depletion; extreme drought stress, irrigation after 70% depletion). Calcium fertilizer was in three levels (0, 1 and 0.5 L/ha calcium fertilizer). Seed priming with growth regulators in three levels. Results showed that grain yield was affected the highest by auxin hormone Ã— calcium the normal irrigation. In both years, the average of the highest grain yield (18348 kg/ha) was achieved in auxin Ã— 0.5 L/ha calcium Ã— normal irrigation and auxin Ã— 0.','auxin, brasinosteroid, seed priming, Zea mays L.','Drought like many other environmental stress, has adverse effects on crop production. Low water availability is one of the major causes for crop yield reductions which affect agricultural production globally. This experiment was conducted to study the effect of seed priming with growth regulators, calcium fertilizer application and drought stress on maize (Zea mays L. SC 704). The factors were: drought stress in three levels (normal irrigation, irrigation after 50% depletion of easily accessible water; moderate stress, irrigation after 60% depletion; extreme drought stress, irrigation after 70% depletion). Calcium fertilizer was in three levels (0, 1 and 0.5 L/ha calcium fertilizer). Seed priming with growth regulators in three levels. Results showed that grain yield was affected the highest by auxin hormone Ã— calcium the normal irrigation. In both years, the average of the highest grain yield (18348 kg/ha) was achieved in auxin Ã— 0.5 L/ha calcium Ã— normal irrigation and auxin Ã— 0.','Drought stress is one of the most important environmental factors in reduction of growth, development and production of plants. It can be said that it is one of the most devastating environmental stresses. Iran, with an annual rainfall of 240 mm, is classified as one of those dry regions (Jajarmi, 2009). According to geographical location and topographic conditions, Iran has always been faced with drought over the last centuries, about 10 percent of the Iran\'s areas have more than 500 mm of rainfall over the years and the rest have to be watered for the plants growth (Mazaheri and Majnoun-Hosseini, 2005). Under drought stress, a plant\'s ability to absorb and transfer materials is disturbed which affects the access to food (Lauer, 2003). At present, there is no method for increasing atmospheric precipitation during drought periods. Therefore, the best way for counteracting drought is to use suitable agronomic practices and drought tolerant cultivars (Rahba and Uprety, 1998). Maize (Zea ','Javad Nejat, Ahmad Naderi, Yahya Emam, Adel Modhej and Alireza Bagheri (2015). The Effect of Priming, Growth Regulators and Calcium on Yield and Some Physiological Traits of Maize under Drought Stress , Biological Forum â€“ An International Journal 7(2):'),(3972,'118','Variation in the first intron of VRN-1 gene in winter and spring Iranian wheat landraces',' Elham Zarei Abbasabad, Seyed Abolghasem Mohammadi, Mohammad Vahed Moghaddam, and Mohammad Reza Jalal Kamali','65 Variation in the first intron of VRN-1 gene in winter and spring Iranian wheat landracesSEYED ABOLGHASEM MOHAMMADI @ ELHAM-f.pdf','',1,'Vernalization requirement in hexaploid wheat is largely controlled by a series of homoeologous Vernalization (Vrn) genes; Vrn-A1, Vrn-B1, and Vrn-D1. In this study, the first intron of Vrn1 in 395 spring and winter Iranian wheat landraces were analyzed. A primer pair of Intr1/A/F2 and Intr1/A/R3 was used to survey the large deletion in the 1st intron of Vrn-A1 locus and 710-bp and 1170-bp fragments were amplified in 14 and 21 genotypes, respectively. Both fragment were isolated and sequenced from spring and winter types and the sequences of 710-bp allele in winter and spring types showed 98% identity with four SNPs. Based on second primer pair, (Intr1/B/F and Intr1/B/R3), a fragment of 709-bp was amplified in 152 genotypes including 63 spring and 69 winter type. Sequence analysis revealed 7 SNPs between facultative and winter genotypes. A conservation region of 577-bp length with conservation coefficient of 1.00 was identified. In addition, a fragment of 1671-bp was amplified in 266 ge','conserved region, growth habit, sequence identity, vernalization, wheat landraces','Vernalization requirement in hexaploid wheat is largely controlled by a series of homoeologous Vernalization (Vrn) genes; Vrn-A1, Vrn-B1, and Vrn-D1. In this study, the first intron of Vrn1 in 395 spring and winter Iranian wheat landraces were analyzed. A primer pair of Intr1/A/F2 and Intr1/A/R3 was used to survey the large deletion in the 1st intron of Vrn-A1 locus and 710-bp and 1170-bp fragments were amplified in 14 and 21 genotypes, respectively. Both fragment were isolated and sequenced from spring and winter types and the sequences of 710-bp allele in winter and spring types showed 98% identity with four SNPs. Based on second primer pair, (Intr1/B/F and Intr1/B/R3), a fragment of 709-bp was amplified in 152 genotypes including 63 spring and 69 winter type. Sequence analysis revealed 7 SNPs between facultative and winter genotypes. A conservation region of 577-bp length with conservation coefficient of 1.00 was identified. In addition, a fragment of 1671-bp was amplified in 266 ge','Wheat is one of the most important staple food crops of the world, occupying 17% (one sixth) of crop acreage worldwide, feeding about 40% (nearly half) of the world population and providing 20% (one fifth) of total food calories and protein in human nutrition (Gupta et al., 2008). Wheat landraces are potentially a useful germplasm resource of genetic variability for traits of interest such as stress resistance, tolerance, long term adaptation and grain quality characteristics (Strelchenko et al., 2008). They are widely used by national, private and international breeding programs to derive genes for resistance to biotic and abiotic stresses and good quality (Rawashdeh et al., 2010). \r\nMany cereal crops, such as wheat, barley and oat, are divided into spring and winter types based on their growth habit. Winter varieties require an extended period of exposure to cold in order to flower, a process known as vernalization. In wheat, vernalization requirement is primarily controlled by allel',' Elham Zarei Abbasabad, Seyed Abolghasem Mohammadi, Mohammad Vahed Moghaddam, and Mohammad Reza Jalal Kamali (2015). Variation in the first intron of VRN-1 gene in winter and spring Iranian wheat landraces . Biological Forum â€“ An International Journal '),(3973,'118','The role of Holocnemum strobilaceum phenology on grazing management and sustainable utilization of rangeland forage','Ali Ehsani and Ehsan Zandi Esfahan','66 The role of Holocnemum strobilaceum phenology on grazing management and sustainable utilization of rangeland forageEHSAN ZANDI ESFAHAN.pdf','',1,'In this study, the phenological role of Holocnemum strobilaceum was examined as a key species at three habitats during 2007-2010. Results indicated that the occurrence of phenological phenomena of H. strobilaceum was more affected by temperature and precipitation indices of the growing season. Accordingly, phenological stages in wet and dry years varied in different vegetative regions. Consequently, the role of the phenology of H. strobilaceum is crucial in grazing management as well as determination of grazing season. Applying proper grazing management in rangelands based on key species is very important in improvement of ecological indicators, sustainability of rangeland ecosystems, conservation and restoration of basic resources and sustainable and economic development. Consequently, a complete understanding on phenological stages of Holocnemum strobilaceum enables us to plan grazing management in order to determine the time of livestock entry into and exit from rangelands, optimal ','climate, grazing management, Holocnemum strobilaceum, phenology, sustainable utilization of rangeland forage','In this study, the phenological role of Holocnemum strobilaceum was examined as a key species at three habitats during 2007-2010. Results indicated that the occurrence of phenological phenomena of H. strobilaceum was more affected by temperature and precipitation indices of the growing season. Accordingly, phenological stages in wet and dry years varied in different vegetative regions. Consequently, the role of the phenology of H. strobilaceum is crucial in grazing management as well as determination of grazing season. Applying proper grazing management in rangelands based on key species is very important in improvement of ecological indicators, sustainability of rangeland ecosystems, conservation and restoration of basic resources and sustainable and economic development. Consequently, a complete understanding on phenological stages of Holocnemum strobilaceum enables us to plan grazing management in order to determine the time of livestock entry into and exit from rangelands, optimal ','Rangelands have complex ecological systems mainly affected by the changes of climate factors specially precipitation and temperature. These factors are very influential and important in temporal changes of the phenological stages of plant species. One of the basic problems of Iran\'s rangeland is the lack of grazing management leading to the non-practical and untimely utilization of natural forage of the rangelands and overgrazing. Observing the grazing season is among the basic components of range management principles. Key species is a range forage species that its utilization is an indicator for the utilization of companion species in the region. Since this species is considered important, it should be taken into account in management planning (Walker and Heitschmidt, 1986). Grazing management is regulated based on the key species. When the key species are properly utilized, it could be said that the entire range is properly utilized. \r\nOver the life of a plant, there are critical ph','Ali Ehsani and Ehsan Zandi Esfahan (2015). The role of Holocnemum strobilaceum phenology on grazing management and sustainable utilization of rangeland forage Biological Forum â€“ An International Journal 7(2): 401-404. '),(3974,'118','Survey of some underutilized edible plants in outskirts areas of Chandigarh','Anu Sharma, Daizy R. Batish, Anita Sharma and Harminder Pal Singh','67 Survey of some underutilized edible plants in outskirts areas of ChandigarhANU SHARMA PU.pdf','',1,'In order to feed the burgeoning world population, new sources of food are being explored. Of these, one of the options is to utilize food from the underutilized edible plants that may provide nutrient rich food in the near future. However, these plants lack potential market value owing to their less preference over the cultivated foods. As a consequence, many of such plants are fast becoming rare or endangered. The need of the hour is to conduct site specific studies to determine their current status and to divert the attention of people to conserve them. A survey based study was thus conducted to find out the number of underutilized plants available in the outskirts of Chandigarh and to highlight their edible uses. The plants under this category were selected on the basis of their edible value in the form of fruits, leaves, buds and flowers. The study was conducted in the rural areas around Chandigarh during the years 2013-2014. During the survey, 27 different plants belonging to 19 ','Underutilized plants, Edible plants, Inventory, Mode of consumption','The present study concludes that area around Chandigarh have good diversity of underutilized plants that can serve as good source of food. There is thus an urgent need to fully harvest their properties for the benefit of the mankind.','Human survivorship is one of the biggest challenges for mankind due to food and nutritional scarcity especially in the developing countries. Although as many as 7000 plants have been cultivated for food yet humans rely greatly on only a few species (Rehm and Espig, 1991; Wilson, 1992; FAO, 2012). Nearly 50% of the food requirement is fulfilled just by three crops viz. Triticum aestivum L. (wheat), Zea mays L. (maize) and Oryza sativa L. (rice) worldwise. Several edible plants thus remain neglected though they possess good potential to serve as a food. Such plants are referred to as underutilized or neglected plants (Padulosi et al., 2002; Kuhnlein et al., 2009). The over-dependence of man on a few species has led to the crop homogenization which is detrimental to ecosystem stability. Of late, it is being realized that underutilized or neglected plants can serve as useful healthy source of food for people as the currently available crop plants are unable to fulfill the ever increasing f','Anu Sharma, Daizy R. Batish, Anita Sharma and Harminder Pal Singh (2015). Survey of some underutilized edible plants in outskirts areas of Chandigarh , Biological Forum â€“ An International Journal 7(2): 405-410.'),(3975,'118','The effect of N fertilizer and methanol spray on function and growth procedure of aerial organs of Beta vulgaris var. in Karaj and Moghan areas','Tohid Nooralvandi, Davood Habibi*, Dariush Fatholah Taleghani, Ali Kashani and Farzad Paknejad\r\n','68 The effect of N fertilizer and methanol spray on function and growth procedure of aerial organs of Beta vulgaris var. in Karaj and Moghan areasDAVOOD HABIBI.pdf','',1,'To study the reaction of Beta vulgaris varieties to N levels and methanol spray and also to study changes of efficiency indexes of plant\'s N and soil\'s N, an experiment was done during 2013 in two regions including research station of Motahari in Karaj and Oltan agricultural research institute in Moghan as strip split blocks with 4 times repetitions. Under studied factors were 4 levels of N (control), efficiency level (according to soil test and previous studies), 25 and 50% lower than efficiency level, 4 varieties of Beta vulgaris including Pars, Ekbatan, Razir and Flores and also zero solvent (control treatment without using methanol), 10 and 20% by volume of methanol. N was applied in 5 parts with definite intervals and methanol was sprayed on aerial organs in 3 times during growth seasons with 14 days interval. According to Bartlet results about measured characteristics (number of leaves per m2 and number of falling leaves per m2), there is significant difference in two regions, th','Beta vulgaris, leaf, methanol spraying, Nitrogen','To study the reaction of Beta vulgaris varieties to N levels and methanol spray and also to study changes of efficiency indexes of plant\'s N and soil\'s N, an experiment was done during 2013 in two regions including research station of Motahari in Karaj and Oltan agricultural research institute in Moghan as strip split blocks with 4 times repetitions. Under studied factors were 4 levels of N (control), efficiency level (according to soil test and previous studies), 25 and 50% lower than efficiency level, 4 varieties of Beta vulgaris including Pars, Ekbatan, Razir and Flores and also zero solvent (control treatment without using methanol), 10 and 20% by volume of methanol. N was applied in 5 parts with definite intervals and methanol was sprayed on aerial organs in 3 times during growth seasons with 14 days interval. According to Bartlet results about measured characteristics (number of leaves per m2 and number of falling leaves per m2), there is significant difference in two regions, th','One of the main reasons of low cutie of Beta vulgaris in Moghan is high temperature of nights in August and September months and extreme reduction of light during days (Yadollahi and Shojaei-Asadieh, 2009).\r\nFathollah Taleghani et al. (2001) suggested that aerial organs have grown more quickly and reach to their highest level in this region than other areas (such as Karaj). But this plant cannot maintain the produced aerial organs following with their growth; when temperature increases in June and August, the leaves start to fall and by reduction of temperature in September aerial organs grow again. This causes that sugar percentage of product decreases and eventually in harvesting time, the sucrose amount existing in the root decreases in comparison with spring Beta vulgaris of other areas.\r\nIn the other study in Germany, it was indicated that high temperature in June and August reduces final function of the root, therefore the function of white sugar reduces in the fall. In October, ','Tohid Nooralvandi, Davood Habibi*, Dariush Fatholah Taleghani, Ali Kashani and Farzad Paknejad (2015). The effect of N fertilizer and methanol spray on function and growth procedure of aerial organs of Beta vulgaris var. in Karaj and Moghan areas Biologi'),(3976,'118','The Role of Organic Farming in Improving Food Security in Fars Province','Laleh Morshedi, Farhad Lashgarara, Seyed Jamal F Hosseini and Maryam Omidi Najafabadi\r\n','70 The Role of Organic Farming in Improving Food Security in Fars ProvinceLALEH MORSHEDI.pdf','',1,'The present investigation was undertaken to study the role of organic farming in improving food security in Fars province. Out of a total of 187 samples collected. A questionnaire was developed to collect data. The validity of the questionnaire confirmed by experts and reliability was measured using Cronbach Alpha coefficient and 98% was estimated by the SPSS16 software. Evaluation showed that rate of food security among majority of respondents was in moderate level. The results indicated that reliance on locally available production assets were determined as the most important capability of capacity building in enhancing food security. Based on the results of the study, it is recommended to use organic farming to improve Food security.','-','The present investigation was undertaken to study the role of organic farming in improving food security in Fars province. Out of a total of 187 samples collected. A questionnaire was developed to collect data. The validity of the questionnaire confirmed by experts and reliability was measured using Cronbach Alpha coefficient and 98% was estimated by the SPSS16 software. Evaluation showed that rate of food security among majority of respondents was in moderate level. The results indicated that reliance on locally available production assets were determined as the most important capability of capacity building in enhancing food security. Based on the results of the study, it is recommended to use organic farming to improve Food security.','Access to desirable, sufficient, safe and nutritious food is a basic component of development and health of a society. Thus, when developing country goals and priorities, food security is of utmost importance (Lashgarara et al., 2009). Food insecurity is one of the most pressing challenges, particularly in developing countries (WHO, 2013).\r\nThere is a general movement in the agricultural sector aimed at developing sustainable agriculture as a means of improving peoples\' livelihoods. Many NGOs, CBOs and the government promoted an approach to agriculture which would allow for the safeguarding of food security, help to provide income, maintain soil fertility and control pests. From here, it was only a small step towards embracing organic agriculture, which, with its emphasis on nature, was found to be palatable (Taylor, 2006).\r\nHowever, hunger, poverty and environmental degradation persist even as concerns about global human security issues continue to increase. Moreover, the last decades','Laleh Morshedi, Farhad Lashgarara, Seyed Jamal F Hosseini and Maryam Omidi Najafabadi (2015). The Role of Organic Farming in Improving Food Security in Fars Province , Biological Forum â€“ An International Journal 7(2): 426-429. '),(3977,'118','Interrelationships between agronomic traits with seed yield in safflower (Carthamus tinctorius L.) under different irrigation regimes','Tina Homayoun Nezhad and Reza Talebi','71 Interrelationships between agronomic traits with seed yield in safflower _Carthamus tinctorius L._ under different irrigation regimesREZA TALEBI.pdf','',1,'Drought is one of the main limiting factors in crop production in many part of world. To determine the association between seed yield and morphological traits in safflower accessions from different sources, two separate field experiment (Irrigated and rainfall conditions) were conducted with 64 different landrace, breeding lines and cultivated safflower genotypes using an 8 Ã— 8 lattice square design with 2 replications in the 2013 growing season. Analysis of variance revealed significant differences among genotypes for all traits in both irrigated and rainfall environments. Grain yield (g/plant) showed high significant positive correlation with number of heads per plant (NHP), number of seeds per head (NSH) and 1000-seed weight (TSW) in both irrigated and rainfall environments. Cluster analysis based on seed yield and morphological traits assorted the genotypes in four groups in both environments. Comparatively, high genetic variation was found in grain yield and other characteristics','safflower, drought stress, morphology, yield','To improve drought tolerance in crop plants, the genetic variation of the crop for traits related to drought tolerance must be investigated (Ali et al., 2009; Dhanda et al., 2004). The description of agronomically important and useful characteristics is an important prerequisite for effective and efficient utilization of germplasm collections in breeding programs. In this study, the effect of drought treatments and their interaction with genotypes were significant for all studied traits indicating a very high variability within the genotypes and it can therefore be concluded that landraces and improved genotypes from different sources responded differently to the different irrigation regimes. Some traits such as harvest index and plant biomass showed difference correlation with grain yield in both the environments. Cluster analysis assorted the genotypes in four groups in both environments. Although results of this investigation provided information about the potential in genetic varia','Drought is one of the main environmental stresses that adversely affect the plant growth, metabolism and grain yield. In Iran water is a scarce resource due to the high variability of rainfall. The effects of water stress depend on the timing, duration and magnitude of the deficits (Pandey et al., 2001). Safflower (Carthamus tinctorius L.) is one of the most important annual oil seed crop which is grown throughout the semiarid regions. It is a deep- rooted annual plant which has the ability to meet its water requirements by exploring a larger volume of soil than the other oil-yielding crops (Dordas and Sioulas 2008). In the past few years, the area under safflower cultivation in Iran has increased to 15,000 ha, mostly under rain-fed conditions (Pourdad and Mohammadi 2008). An analysis of the variability among the traits and the association of a particular plant character to other traits contributing to the yield of a crop would be of great value in planning a successful breeding progra','Tina Homayoun Nezhad and Reza Talebi (2015). Interrelationships between agronomic traits with seed yield in safflower (Carthamus tinctorius L.) under different irrigation regimes , Biological Forum â€“ An International Journal 7(2): 430-435. '),(3978,'118','Adventitious Shoot and Root Regeneration of Wild Strawberry (F. viridis Duch.) by Means of Tissue Culture Medium Optimization','Yousef Ghasemi,Sadegh Beaicknejad, Firouzeh Sohrevardi, Mehdi Sharifani, Elham Amiri and Ghorban Ali Nematzadeh ','72 Adventitious Shoot and Root Regeneration of Wild Strawberry _F. viridis Duch._ by Means of Tissue Culture Medium OptimizationFIROUZEH SOHREVARDI.pdf','',1,'The main objective of this study was to clarify the optimum plant growth regulators (PGR) for the organogenesis of wild strawberry. (Fragaria viridis Duch.) indigenous to Iran. Nodal segment and stipule were cultured in Murashige and Skoog (MS) containing different concentrations of Cytokinin and Auxin for proliferation and adventitious shoot regeneration respectively. A factorial experiment design in a frame of completely randomize design (CRD) was applied to analyze the data. The MS medium with 8.8 ÂµM N6-benylmino-purine (BA) and 2.5 ÂµM Indole-3- butyric acid (IBA) was the best medium for adventitious shoot regeneration from stipule with producing an average of 6.3 shoot per explants. The highest amount of multiplication was obtained of shoot tip with the average number of 14 regenerated shoots in MS medium containing 2.2 ÂµM Thidiazuron (TDZ) and 0.5 ÂµM IBA. The highest shoot length resulted by the application of a medium containing 2.2 ÂµM BA and 2.5 ÂµM IBA. To accelerate prop','Iranian wild strawberry, organogenesis; micro propagation, TDZ, BA.','This research demonstrated that TDZ was an effective Cytokinin among different Cytokinin hormones on shoot regeneration. Also the ratio of TDZ to auxin is another critical issue for high proliferation frequency in short time. \r\n\r\n \r\n\r\nThe best shoot multiplication was observed for MS medium containing 4.4 ÂµM TDZ supplemented with 0.5 ÂµM IBA with regenerated 14 shoots in each explants. Raising or decreasing this ratio the number of shoots was reduced visibly. Addition of GA in shoot length medium strength the height of proliferated shoot but existing of BA in this medium had a clear negative effect. In strawberry stipules are suitable explants rather than other tissues for adventitious shoot regeneration. The number and percentage of regenerated shoots is limited in the investigated accession and it seems that the subscription of a special concentration of plant growth regulator is essential for every genotype. Application of 8.8 ÂµM BA plus 2.5 ÂµM IBA give the best adventitious shoo','Strawberry is one of the popular temperate fruit which always is under cultivation because of its good nutritional properties and flavor. Berry is a valuable fruit for its low calorie, carbohydrate and acceptable fiber contents and is galore in case of antioxidant including phenol, flavonoids, carotenoids, anthocyanin and vitamin C (Larson 1998). All strawberries (Fragaria spp.) species have a base haploid count of seven chromosomes (Jijuan et al. 2005). Fragaria viridis is diploid which have two pairs of chromosomes for a total of 14. This species is distributed at the north area of Iran that produces red and better tasty fruits. However the fruit is smaller than commercial species such as Fragaria Ã— ananassa. Wild strawberries species are valuable genetic resources in breeding programs for good taste and resistance against biotic and abiotic stresses (Bhatt and Dhar 2000). It propagates naturally by seed and runner that take a long process to fruit and restricted number of seedling ','Yousef Ghasemi,Sadegh Beaicknejad, Firouzeh Sohrevardi, Mehdi Sharifani, Elham Amiri and Ghorban Ali Nematzadeh (2015). Adventitious Shoot and Root Regeneration of Wild Strawberry (F. viridis Duch.) by Means of Tissue Culture Medium Optimization , Bio'),(3979,'118','Energy Requirements and Economic Analysis for Wheat Production in Iran','Asadullah Mirasi, Amir Hossein Rabiee and Mohammad Bagher Taghipour','73 Energy Requirements and Economic Analysis for Wheat Production in IranASADULLAH MIRASI.pdf','',1,'The aims of this study were to estimate the amount of input and output energy per unit area and to make an economic analysis of wheat production in Shahreza, located in Esfahan province, Iran. A survey was conducted using a face to face questionnaire with 70 wheat producers. Results showed that the rate of water pumping energy input was higher than other inputs; this is due to deep wells of water resources and also high rate of water consumption for wheat production. Also, because of high total energy input, this study indicated that equivalent energy inputs, net energy gain, and energy ratio of wheat grain were 125.6 GJ/ha, -35.57 GJ/ha and 0.7 respectively. By referring to obtained coefficients from this research, the appropriate energy production function found to be a transcendental function.','Energy efficiency, energy production function, transcendental function','In this study, relationship between energy inputs and yield for wheat production were investigated in Esfahan province of Iran. Results showed that wheat production consumed a total energy of 125674.8MJha-1, which was mainly due to Irrigation (77% of total energy). Energy ratio, energy productivity and net energy for wheat production were 0.717, 0.048 and -35.57 GJha-1, respectively. Results show that the cultivation area, energy of chemical fertilizer, energy of consumed fuel by machines, and pumping energy have high effects on energy production of wheat production.','In modern world, food production for inhabitants, from first stage up to final consumption, relies on abundant energy. Tillage operations, crop planting, care and harvesting, processing, packaging and transportation need a lot of energy. Population growth rate in one hand and changes in consumption pattern on the other hand, especially in industrialized and developing countries increase per capita energy consumption. Increase in net production of agro ecosystems is contribution of high energy input which is being introduced to the system by human. Hence in most parts of the world, the ratio for output and input of total energy has been calculated for different agricultural ecosystems. In the future, man will be forced to produce more food while using less energy. Therefore promotion of new practices and optimal use of farm lands are some approaches for human food production in the future. So a method which can produce more while using lower quantity of energy will assume sustainable pr','Asadullah Mirasi, Amir Hossein Rabiee and Mohammad Bagher Taghipour (2015). Energy Requirements and Economic Analysis for Wheat Production in Iran , Biological Forum â€“ An International Journal 7(2): 442-448. '),(3980,'118','Investigation the effects of nano TiO2 and TiO2 spraying on the oil yield of Safflower (Carthamus tinctorius L.)','Elham Morteza and Ali Joorabloo','74 Investigation the effects of nano TiO2 and TiO2 spraying on the oil yield of Safflower _Carthamus tinctorius L._ELHAM MORTEZA.pdf','',1,'An experiment was performed in order to study the effects nano TiO2 and TiO2 (bulk) spraying on the oil yield of safflower (Carthamus tinctorius L.) in RCBD design at one farm, Grmsar, Iran. This experiment consisted of four treatments, T1: no-foliar application, T2: foliar application of TiO2 (bulk) at concentration of 0.04%, T3: foliar application with nano-TiO2 at concentration of 0.02% and T4: concentration of 0.04%. Results indicated the significant effect of nano TiO2 and bulk concentrations on the traits of height, grain yield, oil percentage and oil yield of safflower, but its effect was not significant on the 1000 grain weight of this plant. Results showed that spraying of safflower plants by nano TiO2 increased oil yield and other measured traits in comparison with the non-nano TiO2 (bulk) and control treatments. Maximum oil yield of this plant was achieved with application of 0.04% nano TiO2 and minimum amount of this trait was obtained by control treatment. Therefore, in ac','Nano TiO2, Safflower, Oil yield, Grain yield, Height','An experiment was performed in order to study the effects nano TiO2 and TiO2 (bulk) spraying on the oil yield of safflower (Carthamus tinctorius L.) in RCBD design at one farm, Grmsar, Iran. This experiment consisted of four treatments, T1: no-foliar application, T2: foliar application of TiO2 (bulk) at concentration of 0.04%, T3: foliar application with nano-TiO2 at concentration of 0.02% and T4: concentration of 0.04%. Results indicated the significant effect of nano TiO2 and bulk concentrations on the traits of height, grain yield, oil percentage and oil yield of safflower, but its effect was not significant on the 1000 grain weight of this plant. Results showed that spraying of safflower plants by nano TiO2 increased oil yield and other measured traits in comparison with the non-nano TiO2 (bulk) and control treatments. Maximum oil yield of this plant was achieved with application of 0.04% nano TiO2 and minimum amount of this trait was obtained by control treatment. Therefore, in ac','Plant of safflower, (Carthamus tinctorius L.), is a member of the family composite, cultivated mainly for its seed, which is used as edible oil and as birdseed (Weiss, 2000). Safflower is currently grown mostly for edible oil, considered as one of the best for human consumption due to high quantities (70 -75%) of poly-unsaturated (Linoleic acid) or monounsaturated fatty acid (Oleic acid) (Nimbkar and Singh, 2005). Historically, the crop is restricted to the middle east, parts of Asia and Africa and over time it has been adapted to the semi-arid climatic condition of western United States (Lartey et al., 2005). Safflower is a tap-rooted multipurpose crop which can tolerate environmental stresses including salinity and water stress (Soheilikhah et al., 2005). In addition, spring and fall types make safflower suitable choice for production of edible oil. For the sake of the shorter period of cultivation, spring type is preferred to fall type (Sanoie et al., 2013). Manufactured nanoparticl','Elham Morteza and Ali Joorabloo (2015). Investigation the effects of nano TiO2 and TiO2 spraying on the oil yield of Safflower (Carthamus tinctorius L.) , Biological Forum â€“ An International Journal 7(2): 449-454.'),(3981,'118','Survey and characterization of fluoride in drinking waters in Jhabua district of Madhya Pradesh','Geeta Ateria, Dr. V.K. Khadder and Dr. Suneeta Phadnis','76 Survey and characterization of fluoride in drinking waters in Jhabua district of Madhya PradeshGEETA @BHASKAR.pdf','',1,'Water is an invaluable basic natural resource for human beings. Without water there is no life. Water is being used for several purposes viz. drinking, irrigation, hydro-electric production, industries, transport, sanitation, recreation etc. However, a major part of water is used for drinking and livelihood as well as irrigation of farm lands. Therefore, fresh water good of quality is extremely important and valuable to life. A part of rain water percolates in the ground through soil pores, joints and cracks in the rocks and is known as ground water. Ground water is a major source of drinking and domestic uses and irrigation of about 60% farm lands in the country (FAI 2011).\r\nWater is an integral part of the life on the planet. It is an odorless and tasteless substance that covers more than three fourths of the earthâ€™s surface. Only 2.5% of the Earthâ€™s water is fresh water and 98.8% of that water is in ice and ground water. Groundwater is the major source of fresh water on the eart','Groundwater, Fluoride, Fluorosis, Defluorination.','Systematic information on fluoride content of ground water of Jhabua is very much lacking, therefore the research topic chosen is of topical interest with following research objectives to survey of fluoride status in drinking water being consumed in Jhabua district, study the impact of fluoride contaminant water on general health, to find out limits of fluoride content in drinking water sources and interaction with other ions present in drinking water to assess water safe for human consumption. Therefore, systematic survey of ground water resources was carried out in Oct-Nov. 2011 and Feb-March 2012 covering 6 blocks, 68 villages and 413 samples from 208 hand pumps in Jhabua district of Madhya Pradesh.Results showed that these water samples had pH 6.65 to 7.58, electrical conductivity 0.47 to 4.22 dS/m, sulphate concentration 0.5 to 11.6 mg/L. The carbonate and bicarbonate concentration ranged from traces to 0.6 and bicarbonate 2.2 to 5.8 me/L. The cations like Ca and Mg content r','India is one of the 25 nations in the world where fluoride problem is persisting due to long term consumption of excessive fluoride bearing drinking water. Recent findings indicate that more than 60 Million people including children in India are suffering with dental, skeletal and non skeletal forms of fluorosis and other associated health problems. In affected areas fluoride concentration in ground water is found to be more than tolerable limits. According to the survey made by Rajiv Gandhi National Drinking Water Mission, New Delhi many districts (in 16 out of 32 states) in India are affected due to endemic fluorosis problem till 1992. The total numbers of affected district and states in India might have been increased further more by now. The approximate percentage of affected districts in each state is presented in pie chart. It can be seen that 30% districts are affected in Punjab, Haryana, Madhya Pradesh, Maharashtra, and Bihar whereas population in 50% districts in Uttar Pradesh','Geeta Ateria, Dr. V.K. Khadder and Dr. Suneeta Phadnis (2015). Survey and characterization of fluoride in drinking waters in Jhabua district of Madhya Pradesh , Biological Forum â€“ An International Journal 7(2): 461-466. '),(3982,'118','The effect of different Values of Nitrogen, Potassium and Zinc Fertilizers on Physiological characteristics of Green Bean (Phaseolous vulgaris gen. Sunray) in Iran','Mohammad Nasri and Mansoureh Khalatbari','77 The effect of different Values of Nitrogen, Potassium and Zinc Fertilizers on Physiological characteristics of Green Bean _Phaseolous vulgaris gen. Sunray_ in IranMOHAMMAD NASRI.pdf','',1,'The experiment was conducted with complete randomized block experimental design with split-plot arrangement with three replications in Varamin university field research in 2011. The main plots consisted of nitrogen levels from urea including 250 Kg ha-1 (N1), 300 Kg ha-1 (N2) and 350 Kg ha-1 (N3). And sub plots with different fertilizer were three treatments of Potassium (K) 120 Kg ha-1 and Zn-foliar application 6 per 1000 (Zn) and photash 120 Kg ha-1 with 6 per 1000 Zn-foliar application together (N, K*Zn) that sprayed by the results of soil analysis. The results showed that nitrogen uptake increased green bean yield. The interaction between (N level) and (K and Zn applications) was observed that the highest Nitrate uptake was obtained that N3K*Z treatment. The highest radiation use efficiency (RUE) and chlorophyll were obtained from 350 Kg.ha-1 Urea with application of (K* Zn fertilizers) treatment. The highest pod yield (4306.2 Kg.ha-1) was presented by application of 250 Kg.ha-1 Ur','green bean, nitrate, radiation use efficiency (RUE) and growth index.','The experiment was conducted with complete randomized block experimental design with split-plot arrangement with three replications in Varamin university field research in 2011. The main plots consisted of nitrogen levels from urea including 250 Kg ha-1 (N1), 300 Kg ha-1 (N2) and 350 Kg ha-1 (N3). And sub plots with different fertilizer were three treatments of Potassium (K) 120 Kg ha-1 and Zn-foliar application 6 per 1000 (Zn) and photash 120 Kg ha-1 with 6 per 1000 Zn-foliar application together (N, K*Zn) that sprayed by the results of soil analysis. The results showed that nitrogen uptake increased green bean yield. The interaction between (N level) and (K and Zn applications) was observed that the highest Nitrate uptake was obtained that N3K*Z treatment. The highest radiation use efficiency (RUE) and chlorophyll were obtained from 350 Kg.ha-1 Urea with application of (K* Zn fertilizers) treatment. The highest pod yield (4306.2 Kg.ha-1) was presented by application of 250 Kg.ha-1 Ur','Nitrogen is one of the fundamental compounds in nutrition of the plants. If there are enough water and food for plant, then the light is the only factor that effects on qualitative and quantitative properties of the crop (Zimdahl, 2006). One of the objectives of agricultural management is maximum utilization of solar energy by the canopy. It was evidenced that the application of N-fertilizer affects chlorophyll content and then it cause an increase in RUE (Pilbram et al, 2009). On the other hand, the maximum energy from light absorption and RUE cause the highest photosynthesis, and therefore biomass production and yield increase by penetrating light into different canopy layers (Haverkort, 2007). Majd Nasiri & Ahmadi (2005) showed that plants produce dry matter by sunlight absorption and store it in themselves during their vegetative stages. Lecocu & Ney (2008) proved that there was a linear relationship between the total dry matter production and photosynthetic active radiation (PAR) ','Mohammad Nasri and Mansoureh Khalatbari (2015). The effect of different Values of Nitrogen, Potassium and Zinc Fertilizers on Physiological characteristics of Green Bean (Phaseolous vulgaris gen. Sunray) in Iran , Biological Forum â€“ An International Jo'),(3983,'118','Reliable Detection of the Fungal Pathogen, Molecular Detection and Identification Fusarium oxysporum','Khodabakhsh Naroei and Mohammad Salari','78 Reliable Detection of the Fungal Pathogen, Molecular Detection and Identification Fusarium oxysporumKHODABAKHSH NAROEI.pdf','',1,'Fusarium oxysporum is a ubiquitous species complex of soil-borne plant pathogens comprising of many different formae speciales, each characterized by a high degree of host specificity. Fusarium oxysporum is a ubiquitous inhabitant of soils worldwide and causes diseases such as wilt, yellows and damping-off in different plant species. Rapid and reliable detection of the pathogen is essential for undertaking appropriate and timely disease management measures. The time-consuming and laborious classical detection methods are now being increasingly replaced by culture-independent molecular detection techniques, which are much faster, more specific and sensitive. The molecular techniques like microarrays, whole genome sequencing, DNA barcoding, metagenomics etc. can identify a large number of isolates in a single assay. Some of the emerging tools will also allow complete analysis of developmental processes that are characteristics of the fungus, including the molecular nature of pathogenicit','-','As these new molecular technologies gain wide acceptance, routine detection, identification and monitoring of plant pathogens should become more common in plant pathology. Microarray chips are now being fabricated with oligonucleotides that are either synthesized directly on a solid surface or are microspotted. Similarly, the next generation sequencing technologies like 454 and SOLiD can sequence several microbial genomes in a single run. If the complete DNA sequence of plant pathogens is known, oligonucleotides specific for a pathogen can be designed and a single high-density microarray chip could accommodate oligonucleotides specific for a large number of pathogens. In the next few years, complete genome sequences of many pathogenic strains of F.o. are likely to become available and these will help to design PCR primers or probes very specific to the pathogen strains enabling accurate identification of the strains even if camouflaged by other pathogens. For example, if each microarra','Fusarium oxysporum is an economically important soilborne pathogen with worldwide distribution (Santos et al., 2002). The fungus causes vascular wilt in about 80 botanical species by invading epidermal tissues of the root, extends to the vascular bundles, produces mycelia and/or spores in the vessels, and ultimately results in death of the plants (Namiki et al., 1994). Individual pathogenic strain within the species has a limited host range, and strains with similar or identical host range are assigned to intraspecific groups, called form a specialis (Namiki et al., 1994). Fusarium, the single most important genus of toxigenic fungi, has had a confusing and unstable taxonomic history. A number of factors, including a lack of clear morphological characters separating species, leading to species concepts that are too broad, together with variation and mutation in culture, have conspired to create taxonomic systems that poorly reflect species diversity. The result of this confusion is the','Khodabakhsh Naroei and Mohammad Salari (2015). Reliable Detection of the Fungal Pathogen, Molecular Detection and Identification Fusarium oxysporum , Biological Forum â€“ An International Journal 7(2): 473-492.'),(3984,'118','Effect of Soils Hydraulic Conductivity on Colloidal Nano-Silica Permeation','Gholam Moradi and Shiva Seyedi','79 Effect of Soils Hydraulic Conductivity on Colloidal Nano-Silica PermeationSHIVA SEYEDI.pdf','',1,'Passive site stabilization is a new technology proposed for non-disruptive mitigation of liquefaction risk at developed sites. It is based on the concept of slowly injecting colloidal nano-silica at the edge of a site and deliver stabilizer to the target location using either natural or augmented groundwater flow. Many factors such as stabilizer properties, method of injection, soil type, hydraulic conductivity and porosity are important in the permeation of colloidal silica. In this study, four box models were used to stabilize liquefiable loose mixes of sand with variations in silt content from 0 to 30% with colloidal silica (4.5 wt%) using 5 low-head injection and 2 extraction wells. Then the relation between hydraulic conductivity of soil and duration of colloidal nano-silica permeation was investigated. Results show the amount of hydraulic conductivity strongly affected permeation time of colloidal silica so that a power relation could be suggested between them.','Colloidal nano-silica, Hydraulic conductivity, Liquefaction, Stabilization, Physical model, Silty sand.','Physical modeling was performed to study the permeation of nano colloidal silica in sand with different content of fine grained soil (silt) in a low-gradient groundwater flow field. According to the results, there is an exponential relation between the hydraulic conductivity of silty sands and silt content. More over the amount of hydraulic conductivity strongly affected permeation time of colloidal silica, the delivery time of colloidal silica in formation and hydraulic conductivity shows a power relation at defined conditions. For passive site stabilization, a 4.5 wt% concentration of colloidal silica is expected to be able to adequately mitigate the liquefaction risk. ','Liquefaction is a phenomenon marked by a rapid and dramatic loss of soil strength, which can occur in loose, saturated liquefiable soil deposits subjected to earthquake motion and result in large deformation and settlements, floating of buried structures, or loss of foundation support. Passive site stabilization is a new technology proposed for non-disruptive mitigation of liquefaction risk at developed sites. It is based on the concept of slowly injecting colloidal nano-silica (colloidal silica) at the edge of a site and deliver stabilizer to the target location using either natural or augmented groundwater flow. Colloidal silica is an aqueous suspension (a sol) of silica (SiO2) nanoparticles (7-100 nm) that can be made to gel by changing the ionic strength and pH of the dispersion. In diluted solutions, colloidal silica has a low initial viscosity of about 1.5 Ã— 10â€“3 Pa.s (1.5 cP; water = 1 cp). After gelation of colloidal silica, a firm, resonating gel forms. The density, contro','Gholam Moradi and Shiva Seyedi (2015). Effect of Soils Hydraulic Conductivity on Colloidal Nano-Silica Permeation , Biological Forum â€“ An International Journal 7(2): 493-497.'),(3985,'118','Influence of 3,4-Dimethylpyrazole Phosphate as a Nitrification Inhibitor on Nitrogen Dynamics in Different Wheat Varieties by the Isotopes','Mir Ahmad Mousavi Shalmani, Amir Lakziyan, Reza Khorasani and Kazem Khavazi','80 Influence of 3,4-Dimethylpyrazole Phosphate as a Nitrification Inhibitor on Nitrogen Dynamics in Different Wheat Varieties by the IsotopesMIR AHMAD MOUSAVI SHALMANI.pdf','',1,'In order to evaluate the effects of combined application of DMPP on different wheat varieties (different Î”) a greenhouse experiment was carried out in a factorial randomized complete block design (CRD) in three replications. Factors were five wheat varieties and three fertilization systems. In order to trace nitrogen dynamics, 15N enriched ammonium sulfate was used. Results showed that genotypes with lower Î” index prefer to absorb more ammonium (instead of nitrate). The delay in the release of nitrate by DMPP, caused nitrogen fertilizer as greater source of nutrient suppliers in wheat. This leads to increase wheat yield production in DMPP treatment. We can concluded that in the region with the possibility of winter freezing, DMPP application can prevent the conversion of ammonium to nitrate and consequently the nitrogen fertilizer through the leaching decrease and apart from increasing the level of crop production, fertilizer use efficiency can be followed.','3, 4-Dimethylpyrazole Phosphate, 15N, Carbon isotope discrimination, Inhibitor, Nitrification, Wheat.','Statistical analysis of the data shows that genotypes with smaller 13C isotope discrimination have maximum seed and straw yield production, thousand seed weight (TKW) index, total N%, nitrogen derived from labeled fertilizer (Ndff%) and nitrogen use efficiency (NUE). It seems genotypes with lower Î” index have greater water use efficiency, due to more developed root system and the wider uptake of water. Application of DMPP increased fertilizer use efficiency in seed by three percent and in straw by seven percent (totaling 10% increase). In other words, the delay in the release of nitrate by DMPP application, caused nitrogen fertilizer as greater source of nutrient suppliers in wheat plant nutrition (in seed filling stage). This leads to increase the seeds and biological wheat yield production and total nitrogen percentage in DMPP treatment. N-nitrate concentration in the soil reduced and subsequently N-ammonium concentration increased by 11.50 mg/pot.\r\n Regarding effectiveness of DMPP ','Most of nitrogen fertilizers are rapidly oxidized to nitrate by microorganisms in the soil. Nitrate is highly soluble in water and due to its mobility in the soil; the potential for leaching is particularly high. The excessive use of chemical fertilizers in agricultural areas is a major cause of groundwater pollution (Adams, et al., 1994; ChangEntz, 1996; Fraters, et al., 1998; Thomsen, et al., 1993). Apart from environmental hazards, nitrate leaching is one of the most important ways of soil nitrogen loss (Shen, et al., 2003). Therefore low nitrogen fertilizer use efficiency will be a direct consequence of this process (CamargoAlonso, 2006; Li, J., et al., 2003). In this regard, the delay in biological oxidation of ammonia using inhibitors can reduce the loss of nitrogen through leaching process (Zerulla, et al., 2001). Furthermore, this process can reduce the rhizosphere pH and thus uptake of phosphorus will increase (Amberger, 1989). \r\nNitrification inhibitors are special compounds,','Mir Ahmad Mousavi Shalmani, Amir Lakziyan, Reza Khorasani and Kazem Khavazi (2015). Influence of 3,4-Dimethylpyrazole Phosphate as a Nitrification Inhibitor on Nitrogen Dynamics in Different Wheat Varieties by the Isotopes. Biological Forum â€“ An Intern'),(3986,'118','Identify the Promoter Factors of Agricultural Researches in Universities: Opinions of Experts','Mohsen Alini','81 Identify the Promoter Factors of Agricultural Researches in Universities Opinions of ExpertsMOHSEN ALINI.pdf','',1,'The main purpose of this survey was to investigate the promoter factors of agricultural researches in Iran\'s universities by using viewpoints of experts in this field. Design of this study obtained by using a modified Delphi technique to reach group consensus. Findings of this study indicated that Consensus reached on eight promoter factors of agricultural research in universities. These strategies included: develop systems and mechanisms for communication between the Ministries of Agriculture and Science, Research and Technology and research organizations, prioritized research projects according to the needs of country\'s research, and reviewed financial and administrative rules and regulations for approval of university research projects.','Academic research, agriculture, promoter factors, Delphi Technique.','Agricultural development requires, using practical technology that is achieved through scientific research. Most of these agricultural researches conduct in the centers of higher agricultural education by faculty members. Identify strategies to resolve the existing problems in agricultural research to achieve the ideal situation of this kind of research are inevitable. \r\n \r\n Alini 514\r\n \r\nSo, this research effort on strategies to resolve these problems by using the Delphi technique. These results show that the strong consensus (SD <1) in 8 promoter factors of academic research in the field of agriculture among the panel members is as follows:\r\n1. The establishment of research and development units in all executive agencies:\r\nUniversities are the Place of doing fundamental and applied research. These researches, particularly appli','Agricultural sector in Iran\'s economy due to having sustained economic growth, food security, yield of capital, foreign exchange earnings and Creating social justice In comparison with other parts of the country\'s economy has special capabilities so that can have a significant role in the country\'s economy. This sector plays a crucial role in Iran\'s economy, because it provides about 11 percent of GDP, 23% of employment and 80 percent of society foods (anonymous, 2006). To achieve both stability, profitability and productivity in the agricultural sector, is the result of integration and application of rational science, technology and experience. Obviously proper technologies have an important contribution in achieving these goals. Among these, agricultural research has a significant position in developing knowledge and proper technologies (Sharif-Zadeh et al., 2007 b). Shokohi and Torkamani\'s research (2007) also confirm this fact. Their research shows that one percent increase in inve','Mohsen Alini (2015). Identify the Promoter Factors of Agricultural Researches in Universities: Opinions of Experts , Biological Forum â€“ An International Journal 7(2): 509-515'),(3987,'118','Trade of minor forest products in the rural markets of central India','Manish Mishra and Mukta Shrivastava','82 Trade of minor forest products in the rural markets of central IndiaMANISH MISHRA.pdf','',1,'Local markets or Haat Bazaar are markets that generally take place on a weekly basis in a playground or an open field, which is accessible to cluster of forest villages. Most of the of the population depending directly on small scale agriculture, Haat Bazaar offers a unique opportunity for producers to increase their profits and convert underutilized species, medicinal plants or Non Timber Forest Products (NTFPs). In recent years, the system of Haat Bazaar, which was generally practiced in the central India has now gained in popularity and the practice has spread to big village and or tahsil places. In remote forest villages, the tribals have only option left is haat bazaar, in which he can earn money after selling Amla, Mahua, Char, Bael and several unprocessed forest products. Looking to the importance of these haats, a study was undertaken in central region of Madhya Pradesh state. Atleast 83 traders in Dindori and 70 in Mandla district of Madhya Pradesh state are engaged in trading','Haat Bazaar, Market, NTFPs, Forest, Medicinal plants.','Haat bazaars of tribal pockets of central India for sale and purchase of non timber forest products (NTFPs) and for some consumer goods are common in India. Many rural dwellers in tropical regions use non-timber forest products (NTFPs) for subsistence and as a source of income. Numerous local, national and world-level estimates exist of the number of people in different areas who are more or less dependent on NTFPs. It is estimated, for instance, that 1.5 million people in the Brazilian Amazon derive part of their income from extractive products (Non-Wood News, 1994). According to Zhong et. al. (1995) 700,000 people work in the bamboo sector in China, while a frequently quoted figure for India refers to 50 million tribal people living mainly from NTFPs (Poffenberger 1996). Increased urbanization (as a result of rural to urban migration) is an important factor that expands the size of local NTFP markets because it creates a new type of consumer who, unlike rural inhabitants, has to bu','Haat bazaars of tribal pockets of central India for sale and purchase of non timber forest products (NTFPs) and for some consumer goods are common in India. Many rural dwellers in tropical regions use non-timber forest products (NTFPs) for subsistence and as a source of income. Numerous local, national and world-level estimates exist of the number of people in different areas who are more or less dependent on NTFPs. It is estimated, for instance, that 1.5 million people in the Brazilian Amazon derive part of their income from extractive products (Non-Wood News, 1994). According to Zhong et. al. (1995) 700,000 people work in the bamboo sector in China, while a frequently quoted figure for India refers to 50 million tribal people living mainly from NTFPs (Poffenberger 1996). Increased urbanization (as a result of rural to urban migration) is an important factor that expands the size of local NTFP markets because it creates a new type of consumer who, unlike rural inhabitants, has to bu','Manish Mishra and Mukta Shrivastava (2015). Trade of minor forest products in the rural markets of central India , Biological Forum â€“ An International Journal 7(2): 516-521.'),(3988,'118','Morphophysiological Responses of Watercress (Nasturtium officinale) Super food to Organic Media','Rasoul Namavari, Mohammad Reza Ardakani and Sepideh Torabi','83 Morphophysiological Responses of Watercress _Nasturtium officinale_ Super food to Organic MediaMOHAMMAD REZA ARDAKANI.pdf','',1,'According to nutritional fact and role of watercress (Nasturtium officinale) that have been proved in all previous scientific researches and its title as a super food and human need to healthy food and free chemicals residue products, this research is based on methods which effect on watercress features. In this research we used peat moss in 3 levels (100%, 85%, 70%), vermi compost in 2 levels (15% & 30%), bone meal (in Â½ of pots) and poultry fertilizer (in Â½ of pots) as bed and fertilizer. The experiment designed in completely randomized blocks system with 4 replications. Data analyses showed that none of mixtures had any significant effects on stem diagonal size factor. Also analyses showed that vermi compost treatment had significant effect on plant seed pods numbers factor in 1% level. In addition the results showed that utilizing of vermi compost and poultry fertilizer with each other have significant effect on plant wet weight.','Morphophysiological Responses, Watercress, Nasturtium officinale, Organic Media','According to nutritional fact and role of watercress (Nasturtium officinale) that have been proved in all previous scientific researches and its title as a super food and human need to healthy food and free chemicals residue products, this research is based on methods which effect on watercress features. In this research we used peat moss in 3 levels (100%, 85%, 70%), vermi compost in 2 levels (15% & 30%), bone meal (in Â½ of pots) and poultry fertilizer (in Â½ of pots) as bed and fertilizer. The experiment designed in completely randomized blocks system with 4 replications. Data analyses showed that none of mixtures had any significant effects on stem diagonal size factor. Also analyses showed that vermi compost treatment had significant effect on plant seed pods numbers factor in 1% level. In addition the results showed that utilizing of vermi compost and poultry fertilizer with each other have significant effect on plant wet weight.','According to population growth rate, quantitative/qualitative lack of nutritive elements as its results and proliferation situation of illnesses, food preparation and sickness prevention is the researchers\' essential priority. So researchers are looking for foods with great nutrition facts and special medical effects which called Super food.\r\nThis name that used in recent years has been defined as a food that is considered to be very good for your health and that may even help some medical conditions by macmillan dictionary. In this research physiological changes of super food of super foods, Watercress (Nasturtium officinale) produced in organic media have beenanalysed. Watercress (N. officinale) is an aquatic or semi-aquatic perennial plant. It is directly a member of the family Brassicaceae. Watercress contains significant and great amount of Iron, Folic acid, Manganese and Calcium, in addition to vitamins C, B6, K and A (USDA database). Watercress is also a significant source of om','Rasoul Namavari, Mohammad Reza Ardakani and Sepideh Torabi(2015). Morphophysiological Responses of Watercress (Nasturtium officinale) Super food to Organic Media , Biological Forum â€“ An International Journal 7(2): 522-525.'),(3989,'118','Estimation of qualitative parameters in Coronilla varia and Medicago sativa using chemical methods and Near-infrared reflectance (NIR)','Mohammad Javad Mahdavi, Maryam Aghaye Rashti*, Ehsan Zandi Esfahan, Ali Ashraf Jafari, Rahele Seifi, Mahdi Zarei and Abbas Khaksefidi\r\n','84 Estimation of qualitative parameters in Coronilla varia and Medicago sativa using chemical methods and Near-infrared reflectance _NIR_EHSAN ZANDI ESFAHAN.pdf','',1,'Improvement of the traits related to forage quality including Neutral Detergent Fiber (NDF), Acid Detergent Fiber (ADF), and CP in forage species has a significant impact in increasing livestock production. In breeding programs that the number of samples is occasionally high, the use of chemical methods is time-consuming and costly. For this reason, NIR technology has been introduced as a rapid and accurate method in estimating chemical composition of agricultural products. This research was aimed to investigate the possibility of using this technology in estimation of NDF, ADF, and CP in Coronilla varia. A total of 45 samples of each species were selected during different phenological growth stages and from different vegetation types. CP was measured by Kjeldahl method and Coronilla varia method was applied to measure NDF and ADF. For NIR calibration, samples were divided into two categories so that a part was considered for calibration and the rest for evaluating the accuracy of NIR ','Coronilla varia, Neutral Detergent Fiber (NDF), Acid Detergent Fiber (ADF), Crude Protein (CP), Near Infrared Reflectance Spectroscopy (NIRS). ','Knowledge on the nutritional value of plant species helps range managers and ranchers to balance between available food and livestock requirement to maximize livestock performance. Supplying livestock requirement is necessary in terms of energy, protein, minerals, and vita-mins and it is possible when forage quality is studied in terms of chemical and physical compounds (Arzani, 2002). \r\nSeveral indicators are measured to determine forage quality including crude protein, crude fat, NDF, ADF, DMD, ME, WSC, nitrogen-free extract, crude fiber, lignin, minerals (phosphorus, potassium, calcium, etc.), relative nutritional value, and so forth. Among the mentioned fac-tors, those must be considered that firstly less time and cost are spent measuring them and secondly provide a good estimation of forage quality. In recent years, NIR technology has developed and the measurement of agricultural and livestock products is possible with this system. Nowadays, quality traits of forage species are me','Knowledge on the nutritional value of plant species helps range managers and ranchers to balance between available food and livestock requirement to maximize livestock performance. Supplying livestock requirement is necessary in terms of energy, protein, minerals, and vita-mins and it is possible when forage quality is studied in terms of chemical and physical compounds (Arzani, 2002). \r\nSeveral indicators are measured to determine forage quality including crude protein, crude fat, NDF, ADF, DMD, ME, WSC, nitrogen-free extract, crude fiber, lignin, minerals (phosphorus, potassium, calcium, etc.), relative nutritional value, and so forth. Among the mentioned fac-tors, those must be considered that firstly less time and cost are spent measuring them and secondly provide a good estimation of forage quality. In recent years, NIR technology has developed and the measurement of agricultural and livestock products is possible with this system. Nowadays, quality traits of forage species are me','Mohammad Javad Mahdavi, Maryam Aghaye Rashti*, Ehsan Zandi Esfahan, Ali Ashraf Jafari, Rahele Seifi, Mahdi Zarei and Abbas Khaksefidi (2015). Estimation of qualitative parameters in Coronilla varia and Medicago sativa using chemical methods and Near-infra'),(3990,'118','Effects of additive intercropping on field performance of potato and green bean at different densities','Yaghoub Raei, Weria Weisany, Kazem Ghassemi-Golezani and Shahram Torabian','85 Effects of additive intercropping on field performance of potato and green bean at different densitiesWERIA WEISANY.pdf','',1,'One of the best methods for moving towards sustainable agriculture and environmental protection is mixed culture. Accordingly, the experiment was conducted in 2008 and 2009 at the Experimental Research Station of College of Agriculture Tabriz University. The pattern of intercropping was an additive series. The experiment was laid out in a factorial set of treatments was arranged within a randomized complete block design with three replications. The treatments were green bean densities 15, 20 and 25 plant/m2 and potato densities 5, 7.5 and 10 plant/m2 and sole cropping of two species with these densities. In two years, results showed that the highest and lowest yield of green bean was belong to 25 and 15 plant/m2 densities, respectively. The maximum and minimum yield of tuber potato was observed in 10 and 5 plant per m2 in first year. In second year, the highest and lowest potato tuber yield was 3.86 and 2.79 kg/m2 by 10 and 5 plant/m2 densities. ','intercropping, pod length, plant height, tuber yield','One of the best methods for moving towards sustainable agriculture and environmental protection is mixed culture. Accordingly, the experiment was conducted in 2008 and 2009 at the Experimental Research Station of College of Agriculture Tabriz University. The pattern of intercropping was an additive series. The experiment was laid out in a factorial set of treatments was arranged within a randomized complete block design with three replications. The treatments were green bean densities 15, 20 and 25 plant/m2 and potato densities 5, 7.5 and 10 plant/m2 and sole cropping of two species with these densities. In two years, results showed that the highest and lowest yield of green bean was belong to 25 and 15 plant/m2 densities, respectively. The maximum and minimum yield of tuber potato was observed in 10 and 5 plant per m2 in first year. In second year, the highest and lowest potato tuber yield was 3.86 and 2.79 kg/m2 by 10 and 5 plant/m2 densities. ','Overpopulation, environmental degradation and lower production efficiency per unit area are the greatest and most disturbing problems of human society (Timothy et al., 2000). One of the farming practices is concurrent cultivation of two or more crops in the same field which is experienced in many regions of the world. Potatoes are amongst the world\'s main food crops and their demand is increasing at a greater rate than many other food crops. The snap bean or green bean (Phaseolus vulgaris L.) is a warm season crop harvested for its immature seed pods. This plant can be a suitable choice for intercropping because of the ability to fix N and reduce the use of nitrogen in soil. Potato intercropping with legumes such as beans is a common practice in most tropical and subtropical South America and Asia. \r\nWater use efficiently in intercropping system is more than sole cropping. In intercropping, absorption of nitrogen, phosphorus and potassium in a certain area of land is more than pure cul','Yaghoub Raei, Weria Weisany, Kazem Ghassemi-Golezani and Shahram Torabian (2015). Effects of additive intercropping on field performance of potato and green bean at different densities , Biological Forum â€“ An International Journal 7(2): 534-540'),(3991,'118','Identification of Antigens of Cattle Filarial Parasite Setaria digitata Cross Reacting with Wuchereria bancrofti for Monitoring the Exposure to Filarial Infection','Kulandai Samy Athisaya Mary, G. Sathya Seelan and Sugeerappa Laxmanappa Hoti','86 Identification of Antigens of Cattle Filarial Parasite Setaria digitata Cross Reacting with Wuchereria bancrofti for Monitoring the Exposure to Filarial InfectionKULANDAI SAMY ATHISAYA MARY.pdf','',1,'Lymphatic filariasis though not a mortal disease, affects a significant proportion of individuals in terms of disease affliction, economy and sociological status. The Global Programme to Eliminate Lymphatic Filariasis (GPELF) launched in 1997 has covered until recently over 570 million people in 48 countries with indigenous transmission. To monitor the elimination programme antigen detection tests viz., Og4C3 and ICT, developed in the recent past to detect the presence of infection are widely used. However, these tests may not be useful for assessment of transmission during postâ€“MDA surveillance and hence there is a need for marker(s) that detect the exposure to filarial infection. In order to develop such marker(s), heterologous antigens from the filarial parasite Setaria digitata were explored by reacting with sera of individuals exposed to infection (antigen negative, antibody positive) of bancroftian filariasis. The results showed that five molecules [(antigens) (53, 44, 60.9, 63','Setaria digitata, E/S antigens, exposure, transmission, surveillance','Lymphatic filariasis though not a mortal disease, affects a significant proportion of individuals in terms of disease affliction, economy and sociological status. The Global Programme to Eliminate Lymphatic Filariasis (GPELF) launched in 1997 has covered until recently over 570 million people in 48 countries with indigenous transmission. To monitor the elimination programme antigen detection tests viz., Og4C3 and ICT, developed in the recent past to detect the presence of infection are widely used. However, these tests may not be useful for assessment of transmission during postâ€“MDA surveillance and hence there is a need for marker(s) that detect the exposure to filarial infection. In order to develop such marker(s), heterologous antigens from the filarial parasite Setaria digitata were explored by reacting with sera of individuals exposed to infection (antigen negative, antibody positive) of bancroftian filariasis. The results showed that five molecules [(antigens) (53, 44, 60.9, 63','Lymphatic Filariasis (LF), caused by Wuchereria bancrofti, is a major vector borne parasitic disease, also known as elephantiasis, transmitted by mosquito vector Culex quinquefasciatus. This disease is endemic in 83 countries (World Health Organization, 2008), leading to physical, social and finanacial problems to affected individuals (Evans et al., 1993). Globally one billion people are at risk of this disease over 120 million have already been affected and 43 million of them with irreversible chronic manifestations. India contributes 42.8% of the global burden. The Global Programme to Eliminate Lymphatic Filariasis (GPELF) was launched in 1997 and currently over 570 million people are covered under this programme in 48 countries with indigenous transmission (Ottesen et al., 2008). To achieve the goal of GPELF, Mass Drug Administration (MDA) programme has been launched in filariasis endemic countries, including India. \r\nAppropriate tools/markers are necessary for accurate and early de','Kulandai Samy Athisaya Mary, G. Sathya Seelan and Sugeerappa Laxmanappa Hoti (2015). Identification of Antigens of Cattle Filarial Parasite Setaria digitata Cross Reacting with Wuchereria bancrofti for Monitoring the Exposure to Filarial Infection , Biol'),(3992,'118','Influence of Water Stress and Phosphate Fertile 2 on some characteristics of Mung bean','Zohre Kiani Raof, Ahmad Mehraban and Hossein Akbari Moghaddam','87 Influence of Water Stress and Phosphate Fertile 2 on some characteristics of Mung beanAHMAD MEHRABAN.pdf','',1,'Mung bean is a short-season summer growing grain legume grown as dry land crop in the center and northeast of Asia. Mung bean is one of the most nutritious grain legumes used in different parts of the world. Mung bean is a drought tolerant crop and performs well under conditions of low soil moisture. Plant can respond and adapt to water stress by altering their cellular metabolism and invoking various defense mechanisms. Phosphorus (P) is among the most needed elements for crop production in most tropical soils, which tend to be P deficient. The field experiment was laid out in randomized complete block design with factorial design with three replications. Treatments included water stress (A1: control, A2: water stress in during vegetative growth, A3: water stress in during reproductive growth) and Phosphate fertile 2 (B1:0, B2:50, B3:100, B4: 150). Analysis of variance showed that the effect of water stress and Phosphate fertile 2 on all characteristics was significant.','HI, Grain yield, Biological yield, Plant height','Mung bean is a short-season summer growing grain legume grown as dry land crop in the center and northeast of Asia. Mung bean is one of the most nutritious grain legumes used in different parts of the world. Mung bean is a drought tolerant crop and performs well under conditions of low soil moisture. Plant can respond and adapt to water stress by altering their cellular metabolism and invoking various defense mechanisms. Phosphorus (P) is among the most needed elements for crop production in most tropical soils, which tend to be P deficient. The field experiment was laid out in randomized complete block design with factorial design with three replications. Treatments included water stress (A1: control, A2: water stress in during vegetative growth, A3: water stress in during reproductive growth) and Phosphate fertile 2 (B1:0, B2:50, B3:100, B4: 150). Analysis of variance showed that the effect of water stress and Phosphate fertile 2 on all characteristics was significant.','The major legumes in Asia are chickpea, (Cicer arietinum L), pigeonpea (Cajanus cajan L), and Mung bean (Vigna radiata). Mung bean is a warm season crop requiring 90-120 days of frost free conditions from planting to maturity. Adequate rainfall is required from flowering to late pod filling in order to ensure good yield. Drought problems for Mung beans are worsening with the rapid expansion of water stressed areas of the world including 3 billion people by 2030 (Postel, 2000). Mung bean is a short-season summer growing grain legume grown as dry land crop in the center and northeast of Asia (Majnon Hoseini, 2009). Mung-bean is one of the most nutritious grain legumes used in different parts of the world. Mungbean is a drought tolerant crop and performs well under conditions of low soil moisture (Kochaki and Benayanol, 1990). Like other legumes, mung beans are high in protein, having around 25% of the seed dry weight and its amino acid profile is complementary to cereal grains. Mung bea','Zohre Kiani Raof, Ahmad Mehraban and Hossein Akbari Moghaddam (2015).\r\nInfluence of Water Stress and Phosphate Fertile 2 on some characteristics of Mung bean, Biological Forum â€“ An International Journal 7(2): 545-548.'),(3993,'118','Comparison study on effect of different methods on DNA extraction of Methanobrevibacter smithii','Shaghayegh Baradaran Ghavami, Abbas Akhavan Sephay, Hamid Asadzadeh Aghdaei, Taher Nejad Sattari and Mohammad Reza Zali','88 Comparison study on effect of different methods on DNA extraction of Methanobrevibacter smithiiHAMID ASADZADEH AGHDAEI @ JAMSHID-F.pdf','',1,'The aim of the current study was to investigate and compare effect of 3 different methods on extraction of Methanobrevibacter smithii DNA in human feces. Fecal samples were obtained form 21person don\'t use antibiotic during four week ago and randomly divided into 3 experimental group (n=7) and stored at -70Â°C until DNA extraction. In the first method microbial DNA was extract using boiling technique. In the second technique, microbial DNA was obtained using repeated bead-beating (RBB). In the third method, microbial DNA was extract using QIAamp DNA Stool Mini Kit (Qiagen, Germany). All DNA extractions were done using real-Time PCR. According to the data, commercial detecting kit was not useful method to detect M. smithii DNA (P>0.05). Also, there was no significant difference among boiling and RBB method on isolation of DNA of M. smithii from the feces (P>0.05) but both techniques were useful than kit (P<0.05). These results suggest, based on advantage to boiling method e.g. easy to u','Boiling, Repeated bead-beating, Kit, DNA Extraction, Archaea','The aim of the current study was to investigate and compare effect of 3 different methods on extraction of Methanobrevibacter smithii DNA in human feces. Fecal samples were obtained form 21person don\'t use antibiotic during four week ago and randomly divided into 3 experimental group (n=7) and stored at -70Â°C until DNA extraction. In the first method microbial DNA was extract using boiling technique. In the second technique, microbial DNA was obtained using repeated bead-beating (RBB). In the third method, microbial DNA was extract using QIAamp DNA Stool Mini Kit (Qiagen, Germany). All DNA extractions were done using real-Time PCR. According to the data, commercial detecting kit was not useful method to detect M. smithii DNA (P>0.05). Also, there was no significant difference among boiling and RBB method on isolation of DNA of M. smithii from the feces (P>0.05) but both techniques were useful than kit (P<0.05). These results suggest, based on advantage to boiling method e.g. easy to u','Archaea are ancient and extremophiles microorganism which can find in various environment such as oceans, sewage, oil wells and soils (Dridi, Raoult et al. 2011). Archaea that survive in extreme condition were believed to be the most primitive on earth (Dridi, Raoult et al. 2011). In the past it was assumed that the Archaea and Bacteria were both in the same domain. However, detection of 16srRNA sequence illustrated that Archaea is a separate independent domain (Chaban and Hill 2012) because of Archaea and bacteria have similar characteristic including size and shape (Eckburg, Lepp et al. 2003, Dridi, Raoult et al. 2011). But most of features are more closely related to eukaryotes such as genetic and metabolic pathways. Also, Archaea possess unique flagellins and ether-linked lipids, lack murine in their cell walls thus, archaeal membranes are rigid and resistant in strict conditions.\r\nAs important roles of Archaea are biochemical reaction and biodegradation of organic compounds.\r\nArch','Shaghayegh Baradaran Ghavami, Abbas Akhavan Sephay, Hamid Asadzadeh Aghdaei, Taher Nejad Sattari and Mohammad Reza Zali (2015).Comparison study on effect of different methods on DNA extraction of Methanobrevibacter smithii , Biological Forum â€“ An Intern'),(3994,'118','Effect of humic acid and salinity stress on germination characteristic of savory (Satureja hortensis L.) and dragonhead (Dracocephalum moldavica L.)','S. Khalesro, M. Salehi and B. Mahdavi','89 Effect of humic acid and salinity stress on germination characteristic of savory _Satureja hortensis L._ and dragonhead _Dracocephalum moldavica L._SHIVA KHALESRO.pdf','',1,'This study was conducted in a factorial experiment as completely randomized design with three replications in University of Kurdistan in 2014. The aim of this study was investigation of salinity stress and humic acid effects on germination indicators of savory and dragonhead, as, aromatic and medicinal plant. The treatments were humic acid (0, 0.5 and 1%) and salinity (0, 2 and 4 dS/m). The results showed that the maximum length of radicle and plumule and the highest amount of radicle and plumule dry and fresh weight was produced in 1% humic acid. The lowest values of mentioned traits, germination percentage and germination speed were created in 6 dS/m salinity level. Generally the most favorable interaction treatment was the third level of salinity combined with the highest level of humic acid in both plants. Furthermore, humic acid application can be improved germination and plant growth under salinity condition.','Lamiaceae, germination, humic acid, Sodium cloride ','This study was conducted in a factorial experiment as completely randomized design with three replications in University of Kurdistan in 2014. The aim of this study was investigation of salinity stress and humic acid effects on germination indicators of savory and dragonhead, as, aromatic and medicinal plant. The treatments were humic acid (0, 0.5 and 1%) and salinity (0, 2 and 4 dS/m). The results showed that the maximum length of radicle and plumule and the highest amount of radicle and plumule dry and fresh weight was produced in 1% humic acid. The lowest values of mentioned traits, germination percentage and germination speed were created in 6 dS/m salinity level. Generally the most favorable interaction treatment was the third level of salinity combined with the highest level of humic acid in both plants. Furthermore, humic acid application can be improved germination and plant growth under salinity condition.','Consumption of medicinal herbs, the crude source of drugs in indigenous systems of medicine as well as for the pharmaceutical industry, is increasing exponentially. In order to meet the demand, some medicinal plants need to be cultivated commercially. Marginal Lands often comprise toxic soils due to the presence of heavy metals and salinity that pose serious threats to plant production (Qureshi et al., 2005). The abiotic stresses especially salinity and drought stress have negative effect on plant growth and development. In fact the effect of salinity on plant growth is a complex response which includes osmotic stress, ion toxicity and mineral deficit (Roy et al., 2005). Salinity is one of the most important obstacles in producing crops in arid and semi arid regions. These regions produced nearly one third of the world food (Munns, 2002). Two main characteristics of saline soils are low osmotic potential and high solutes concentration that are toxic for plants potentially. The soil sol','S. Khalesro, M. Salehi and B. Mahdavi (2015). Effect of humic acid and salinity stress on germination characteristic of savory (Satureja hortensis L.) and dragonhead (Dracocephalum moldavica L.) , Biological Forum â€“ An International Journal 7(2): 554-5'),(3995,'118','Effects of paraquat on testicular histomorphometry of male rats','Nasibeh Fathi, Mohammad Hossinipanah, Morteza Hajihossini\r\n and Akram Ranjbar\r\n','92 Effects of paraquat on testicular histomorphometry of male ratsAKRAM RANJBAR.pdf','',1,'Paraquat (PQ) is a herbicide which is used all around the world. The aim of this study was to evaluate the effect of high dose of PQ on spermatogenic cells. This study was performed on 14 male wistar rats that divided into 2 groups. For experimental groups was regularly fed PQ for 7 days in 50 mg/kg concentration. Treatment was carried out for one week. Histological evaluation on testis section was performed by using tissue processing and hematoxylin-eosin staining and parameters of seminiferous tubules in testes. There was significant decrease in spematocyte, spermatid and leydig cells, but there were no significant differences in spermatogonia and sertoli cells. And also we showed significant increase in parameters of seminiferous tubules. It concluded that PQ produce free radicals which have toxic and significant effects on number of spermatogenic cells and parameters of seminiferous tubules.','Paraquat, Spermatocyte, Spermatogonia, Spermatid, Leydig, Sertoli','Paraquat (PQ) is a herbicide which is used all around the world. The aim of this study was to evaluate the effect of high dose of PQ on spermatogenic cells. This study was performed on 14 male wistar rats that divided into 2 groups. For experimental groups was regularly fed PQ for 7 days in 50 mg/kg concentration. Treatment was carried out for one week. Histological evaluation on testis section was performed by using tissue processing and hematoxylin-eosin staining and parameters of seminiferous tubules in testes. There was significant decrease in spematocyte, spermatid and leydig cells, but there were no significant differences in spermatogonia and sertoli cells. And also we showed significant increase in parameters of seminiferous tubules. It concluded that PQ produce free radicals which have toxic and significant effects on number of spermatogenic cells and parameters of seminiferous tubules.','Many investigation, on the effect of different doses of herbicides, on different organs in different animals have been done. The studies have shown that PQ have changes on histopathology in rats and especially in testicle and ovary atrophy (Deepananda and De Silva).\r\nOur study about PQ effects on rat testes, can complete the effects of herbicides in different species which were studied previously. Our study showed that spermatocyte, spermatid, leydig cells have significant decrease, in agreement to our result, hemayatkhah et al showed that paraquat in concentrations 10, 15 and 20 mg/kg for two weeks intraperitoneally was decreased in treated groups in cells kinds of seminiferous tubules.\r\n \r\n\r\n \r\n Fathi, Hossinipanah , Hajihossini and Ranjbar 575\r\n \r\nIt was shown that when PQ was orally administrated at 4 mg/kg to male rats for 60 day','Nasibeh Fathi, Mohammad Hossinipanah, Morteza Hajihossini\r\n and Akram Ranjbar (2015). Effects of paraquat on testicular histomorphometry of male rats , Biological Forum â€“ An International Journal 7(2): 573-575.'),(3996,'118','Effects of Cutting height on the harvest times and forage yield of new sorghum cultivars in sistan region','Habib Ali Ahmad, Ahmad Mehraban and Hamid Reza Fanaei','94 Effects of Cutting height on the harvest times and forage yield of new sorghum cultivars in sistan regionAHMAD MEHRBAN.pdf','',1,'Sorghum (Sorghum bicolor) is a warm-season annual grass with great ability to produce high forage biomass yields. It can be used for the production of energy, fibre or paper, as well as for syrup and animal feed. Sorghum is a highly drought-tolerant field crop. Identification of cutting intervals and cutting heights that optimize the net forage accumulation and delay senescence and stem accumulation would favor the efficient accumulation of large quantities of highly nutritious forage. The field experiment was laid out split plot with randomized complete block design with four replications. Treatments included cutting height (b1= 0, b2=5, b3=10, b4=15) and variety (feed speed, pegah, indian). Analysis of variance showed that the effect of variety and cutting height on all characteristics in was significant.','Plant height, wet forage, dry forage','Sorghum (Sorghum bicolor) is a warm-season annual grass with great ability to produce high forage biomass yields. It can be used for the production of energy, fibre or paper, as well as for syrup and animal feed. Sorghum is a highly drought-tolerant field crop. Identification of cutting intervals and cutting heights that optimize the net forage accumulation and delay senescence and stem accumulation would favor the efficient accumulation of large quantities of highly nutritious forage. The field experiment was laid out split plot with randomized complete block design with four replications. Treatments included cutting height (b1= 0, b2=5, b3=10, b4=15) and variety (feed speed, pegah, indian). Analysis of variance showed that the effect of variety and cutting height on all characteristics in was significant.','Sorghum (Sorghum bicolor) is an important alternative for human and animal food, especially in regions of low water availability, in which seed is rich in protein, vitamins, carbohydrates and minerals. Also, the plants have a high green mass and are tolerant to drought (water stress) and high temperatures (Carvalho et al. 2000). Sorghum (Sorghum bicolor) is a warm-season annual grass with great ability to produce high forage biomass yields (Fribourg 1995; Rooney et al. 2007). It can be used for the production of energy, fibre or paper, as well as for syrup and animal feed (Steduto et al. 1997). Sorghum is a highly drought-tolerant field crop. It has low water requirements, and therefore it is widely used as a fodder crop in many regions of the world. However, as with other crops, high yield can be achieved only through the use of suitable agronomic practices (ICRISAT/FAO 1996; Zerbini and Thomas 2003). In order to expand the use of sorghum as a forage crop, its tendency to lodging, a c','Habib Ali Ahmad, Ahmad Mehraban and Hamid Reza Fanaei (2015). Effects of Cutting height on the harvest times and forage yield of new sorghum cultivars in sistan region, Biological Forum â€“ An International Journal 7(2): 581-584. '),(3997,'118','The study on the effect of extract of Cirtus aurantium L. on anxiety of male laboratory mice and its interference with alfa2 adrenergic path','Gita Pournik, Shahrzad Khakpour and Mohammad Reza Bigdeli','95 The study on the effect of extract of Cirtus aurantium L. on anxiety of male laboratory mice and its interference with alfa2 adrenergic pathGITA POURNIK.pdf','',1,'The relation between individual\'s sociability and the amount of epinephrine and nor epinephrine of brain has been known clearly. Present study considered the effect of extract of Cirtus aurantium L. on anxiety and its interference with adrenergic paths. To do so, 98 small male mouse were classified in control and experimental groups. The injection of oil extract was done with 0.5, 2.5 and 5% doses for 10 days by intra peritoneal method. Injection of medicines (clonidine with1/1000 mg/kg dose and yohimbine with 1/100mg/kg dose) in 10th day and 30 min before injection of extract was done by intra peritoneal method. Then anxiety of mouse was evaluated by elevated plus-maze test. The data showed that the extract of Cirtus aurantium L. with 2.5 and 5% increased the number of entrances to open arms significantly (p<0.05); in addition dose of 2.5% increased the passing time in open arms significantly. Simultaneous injection of clonidine along with extract of Cirtus aurantium L. with dose of (','anxiety, clonidine, extract of Cirtus aurantium L., elevated plus-maze test, small mice, yohimbine','The relation between individual\'s sociability and the amount of epinephrine and nor epinephrine of brain has been known clearly. Present study considered the effect of extract of Cirtus aurantium L. on anxiety and its interference with adrenergic paths. To do so, 98 small male mouse were classified in control and experimental groups. The injection of oil extract was done with 0.5, 2.5 and 5% doses for 10 days by intra peritoneal method. Injection of medicines (clonidine with1/1000 mg/kg dose and yohimbine with 1/100mg/kg dose) in 10th day and 30 min before injection of extract was done by intra peritoneal method. Then anxiety of mouse was evaluated by elevated plus-maze test. The data showed that the extract of Cirtus aurantium L. with 2.5 and 5% increased the number of entrances to open arms significantly (p<0.05); in addition dose of 2.5% increased the passing time in open arms significantly. Simultaneous injection of clonidine along with extract of Cirtus aurantium L. with dose of (','Anxiety is one of the important psychological concepts that has drew attention of researchers since previous ages. Understanding of interfered mechanisms can help us to find medical solutions, novel medicines and effective treatments for anxiety disorders (Watanabe et al., 1984). In traditional medicine, Cirtus aurantium is used as a common medicine for reducing neurological disorders and anxiety. In addition, it is known as calming, hypnagogic and appetizer medicine and can fix a lot of heart poundings (Zargari, 1992). Most of domestic and foreign studies have reported curing, calming, anti-inflammation and anti-oxidant effects of citrus aurantium L. (Pultrini, Carvalho-Freitas, 1999). According to side effects of calming medicines affecting nor adrenergic signals, present studies considered the effect of extract of Cirtus aurantium L. on adrenergic path. \r\nAnxiety is one of the mental disorders that has involved lots of youngsters. Advanced tomography of the brain shows that the acti','Gita Pournik, Shahrzad Khakpour and Mohammad Reza Bigdeli (2015).The study on the effect of extract of Cirtus aurantium L. on anxiety of male laboratory mice and its interference with alfa2 adrenergic path . Biological Forum â€“ An International Journal 7'),(3998,'118','Studies on Taxonomy, Distribution, Ecology and Behaviour of Grasshoppers (Insecta: Orthoptera) in Nanda Devi Biosphere Reserve, Western Himalayas, India','Manoj Kumar Arya, Prakash Chandra Joshi and Vinod Prasad Badoni','96 Studies on Taxonomy, Distribution, Ecology and Behaviour of Grasshoppers _Insecta Orthoptera_ in Nanda Devi Biosphere Reserve, Western Himalayas, IndiaMANOJ KUMAR ARYA-f.pdf','',1,'Present investigations were undertaken to know taxonomy, ecology and behaviour of Grasshoppers in the Nanda Devi Biosphere Reserve (NDBR), Western Himalayas, India. 1,269 specimens were collected from different locations of NDBR and a total of ten species of Grasshoppers (Insecta: Orthoptera) belonging to two families under six sub-families were recorded during the study period. Acrididae was the dominant family with six species and Tettigonidae with four species. The present study provides information on diagnostic features, morphometry, distribution, ecology and behaviour of Grasshoppers which identified up to species level in the Nanda Devi Biosphere Reserve.','Acrididae, Behaviour, Distribution, Ecology, Family, Grasshoppers, Orthopteran, Species. ','Present investigations were undertaken to know taxonomy, ecology and behaviour of Grasshoppers in the Nanda Devi Biosphere Reserve (NDBR), Western Himalayas, India. 1,269 specimens were collected from different locations of NDBR and a total of ten species of Grasshoppers (Insecta: Orthoptera) belonging to two families under six sub-families were recorded during the study period. Acrididae was the dominant family with six species and Tettigonidae with four species. The present study provides information on diagnostic features, morphometry, distribution, ecology and behaviour of Grasshoppers which identified up to species level in the Nanda Devi Biosphere Reserve.','Orthopterans are common in terrestrial ecosystem and they are found in different diverse ecosystem from sea level to high altitude of Himalayan hills (Bhowmik and Rui, 1982). Grasshoppers are an essential components of both, healthy, and disturbed grassland ecosystems. These insects are abundant in natural and anthropogenic habitats (Latchininsky et al., 2011). They stimulate plant growth, participate in nutrient cycling and play important role in food chains (Stebaev, 1972; Hewitt and Onsager, 1982; Olfert and Mukerji, 1983; Sergeev, 1989 and Belovsky, 2000). Some grasshoppers are proposed as ecological indicators of ecosystem qualities and efficacy of ecological networks (Bazelet, 2011).\r\nEcological observations on grasshoppers at Solan, Himachal Pradesh, India have carried out by Julka et al. (1982). A considerable amount of work on Indian grasshoppers has been carried out by different scientists in detail (Uvarov, 1921a & 1921b; 1924; 1927 & 1942; Stal, 1860; 1873a & 1873b; Walke','Manoj Kumar Arya, Prakash Chandra Joshi and Vinod Prasad Badoni (2015). Studies on Taxonomy, Distribution, Ecology and Behaviour of Grasshoppers (Insecta: Orthoptera) in Nanda Devi Biosphere Reserve, Western Himalayas, India Biological Forum â€“ An Inter'),(3999,'118','Effect of priming and foliar application of nanoparticles on agronomic traits of chickpea','Mahnaz Valadkhan, Khosro Mohammadi and Mohammad Tahsin Karimi Nezhad','97 Effect of priming and foliar application of nanoparticles on agronomic traits of chickpeaKHOSRO MOHAMMADI.pdf','',1,'There is a little information about co-evaluation of seed priming and foliar application of nanoparticles on agronomic traits of chickpea. Therefore, the field assay was conducted in 2014 in the research field of Islamic Azad University of Sanandaj located in Kurdistan provinces of Iran. The experimental design was a randomized complete block design with a split-plot arrangement of treatments in three replicates. The main plots consisted of four foliar spraying of micronutrients included nano-iron chelate fertilizer, nano-zinc, nano calcium at the rates of 2g L-1, and control. The subplots were the priming of chickpea seed with mentioned nanoparticles. Results showed that nano-iron chelate fertilizer, increased seed number per pod, pod number per plant, 100 seed weight and grain yield compared to control treatment 17, 48, 13 and 65% respectively. Seed priming with Zn, Fe and Ca nanoparticles improved 100 seed weight and grain yield compared to untreated treatment.','Calsium, Iron, Legume, Zink.','Growth of chickpea as an important legume plant, producing protein was affected by nano iron application. It seems that the use of iron nano-particles causes increased in pod number and 100 seed weight and finally will increase total yield. Before the recommendation of these materials, additional testing is required and influence of the nano-particles in chickpea products must be evaluated. ','Seed priming is the process of regulating germination by managing the temperature and seed moisture content, in order to maximize the seed\'s potential. Several different priming methods have been reported to be used commercially, including liquid or osmotic priming and solid matrix priming. Micronutrients can use as material for seed priming. Nano priming of micronutrients is a new method for the rise of seedling vigor and development of germination percentage (Dehkourdi and Mosavi, 2013; Ghafari and Razmjoo, 2013). \r\nThis technology is particularly applied in chelate fertilizers such as zinc, calcium, and iron chelate. These micronutrients can also apply as a foliar application. Foliar application is a technique of feeding plants by applying liquid micronutrients directly to their leaves. Plants are able to take in essential nutrients through their leaves. Liu et al. (2005) reported that nano-fertilizers improved the yield and photosynthesis of peanut. Sheykhbaglou et al. (2010) showe','Mahnaz Valadkhan, Khosro Mohammadi and Mohammad Tahsin Karimi Nezhad (2015). Effect of priming and foliar application of nanoparticles on agronomic traits of chickpea , Biological Forum â€“ An International Journal 7(2): 599-602 . '),(4000,'118','The study of planting date and seedling density on ear yield and forage of sweet corn as a second crop','Bita Zaji, Ali Shirkhani and Afshin Charabeh','98 The study of planting date and seedling density on ear yield and forage of sweet corn as a second cropALI SHIRKHANI.pdf','',1,'-','-','-','Corn is widely grown in all the continents of the world. Forage maize can be utilized by animals in many ways. It can provide high quality yields of palatable forage (Karsten et al., 2003). Sweet corn (Zea mays L. var. saccharata Korn.) is a crop plant grown for fresh human consumption and for raw or processed material for the canned food industry (Rosa, 2014). Both total production and value of processed sweet corn has increased by 60% over the last 25 years (Williams et al. 2006). In Iran corn is increasingly gaining an important position in crop husbandry because of its higher yield potential and short growth duration. It is a rich source of food and fodder. Corn is an important crop in conventional cropping systems of Kermanshah province, west of Iran and area of under corn cultivation is more than 45000 ha at 2014.\r\nCorn silage is popular forage for ruminant animals because it is high in energy and digestibility and is easily adapted to mechanization from the stand-crop to time of','Bita Zaji, Ali Shirkhani and Afshin Charabeh (2015). The study of planting date and seedling density on ear yield and forage of sweet corn as a second crop , Biological Forum â€“ An International Journal 7(2): 603-611.'),(4001,'118','Factor Affecting on Mechanized Cultivation Technologies Acceptance to Reduce Rice Crop Losses','Fatemeh Kazemi, Maryam Omidi, Seyed Jamal Farajollah Hosseini and Farhad Lashgarara','99 Factor Affecting on Mechanized Cultivation Technologies Acceptance to Reduce Rice Crop LossesFATEMEH KAZEMI.pdf','',1,'Reducing agricultural losses causes to increase agricultural products without increase in area that this will lead to less pressure on the environment. For this purpose, this paper is aimed at identifying factors affecting on acceptance of technologies to reduce losses in north of Iran. The methodology used in this study is qualitative method. The sample size was 15 rice producers in Mazandaran province located in the north of Iran by purposeful or judgment sampling. The main tool of study was open-ended questionnaire. The results showed that factors affecting on acceptance of technologies to reduce losses in rice include: facilitating factors and barriers. Facilitating factors include: Economic, educational, psychological, environmental, social-cultural and natural factors. Also barriers include: lack of awareness, lack of government supports, fear and anxiety toward new technologies and psychological factors.','Facilitating Factors, losses, Rice Producers, Technologies Acceptance.','Reducing agricultural losses causes to increase agricultural products without increase in area that this will lead to less pressure on the environment. For this purpose, this paper is aimed at identifying factors affecting on acceptance of technologies to reduce losses in north of Iran. The methodology used in this study is qualitative method. The sample size was 15 rice producers in Mazandaran province located in the north of Iran by purposeful or judgment sampling. The main tool of study was open-ended questionnaire. The results showed that factors affecting on acceptance of technologies to reduce losses in rice include: facilitating factors and barriers. Facilitating factors include: Economic, educational, psychological, environmental, social-cultural and natural factors. Also barriers include: lack of awareness, lack of government supports, fear and anxiety toward new technologies and psychological factors. ','The agricultural sector plays a vital role in Iranian economy, because it covers about 11%of GDP, 23% of employment and providing food for more than 80 % of society (Pezeshki Rad et al., 2007). On the other hand, with population growth, a food demand is increasing day after day (Poorghasem et al., 2014). Based current estimations, the amount of 2030 food production in developing countries must be 70% more than its current production so that could keep the pace with the growth population (Pirmoradi et al., 2013).As well as, according to climate conditions, the limited water resources and limited fertile land for production, it is not possible to increase agricultural production in many places. Therefore, to provide food, not only increasing the productivity of production factors, i.e. water and soil, but also agricultural losses reduction is necessary (Pourghasem et al., 2014).\r\nFood loss is defined as \"the decrease in quantity or quality of food\" and are the agricultural or fisheries p','Fatemeh Kazemi, Maryam Omidi, Seyed Jamal Farajollah Hosseini and Farhad Lashgarara (2015). Factor Affecting on Mechanized Cultivation Technologies Acceptance to Reduce Rice Crop Losses , Biological Forum â€“ An International Journal 7(2): 612-618.'),(4002,'118','Influence of water stress and potassium fertilizer on some characteristics of Satureja hortens','Akram Pourjavadian, Ahmad Mehraban and Hamid Reza Ganjali','100 Influence of water stress and potassium fertilizer on some characteristics of Satureja hortensALIREZA SOBHKHIZI.pdf','',1,'Satureja hortens is an annual, herbaceous plant belonging to the family Labiatae. It is known as summer savory, native to southern Europe and naturalized in parts of North America. The main constituents of the essential oil of shortness are phenols, carvacrol and thymol, as well as pcymene, caryophyllene, linalool and other terpenoids. Due to the growth of population and expansion of the agricultural, energy, and industrial sectors, the demand for water has increased extensively, and water scarcity has been occurring almost every year in many parts of the world. The field experiment was laid out split plot with randomized complete block design with three replications. Treatments included potassium fertilizer (F0= control, F1: 20 gr, F2: 40gr) and water stress (E0: control, E1: water stress in stemming, E2: water stress in flowering, E3: water stress in seedling). Analysis of variance showed that the effect of water stress and potassium on all characteristics was significant.','plant height, dry weight, fresh weight, grain yield','Satureja hortens is an annual, herbaceous plant belonging to the family Labiatae. It is known as summer savory, native to southern Europe and naturalized in parts of North America. The main constituents of the essential oil of shortness are phenols, carvacrol and thymol, as well as pcymene, caryophyllene, linalool and other terpenoids. Due to the growth of population and expansion of the agricultural, energy, and industrial sectors, the demand for water has increased extensively, and water scarcity has been occurring almost every year in many parts of the world. The field experiment was laid out split plot with randomized complete block design with three replications. Treatments included potassium fertilizer (F0= control, F1: 20 gr, F2: 40gr) and water stress (E0: control, E1: water stress in stemming, E2: water stress in flowering, E3: water stress in seedling). Analysis of variance showed that the effect of water stress and potassium on all characteristics was significant.','Satureja hortensis L. is an annual, herbaceous plant belonging to the family Labiatae. It is known as summer savory, native to southern Europe and naturalized in parts of North America. The main constituents of the essential oil of Shortness are phenols, carvacrol and thymol, as well as p-cymene, caryophyllene, linalool and other terpenoids (Sefidkhon et al., 2006). In folk medicine, Satureja hortensis is used as stomachic, stimulant, carminative, expectorant, the world aphrodisiac, antispasmodic and antidiarrheals (Hajhashemi, 2000; Skocibusic et al., 2006). In addition, savory has wide application in food, drink and perfume industries (Sefidkon et al., 2006; Skocibusic et al., 2006). The essential oil of S. hortensis possesses many activities such as antioxidant, antibacterial and antifungal (Gulluce et al., 2003; Rezaeei et al., 2014). The main essential oil constituents are phenolic compounds including carvacrol and thymol, as well as Î³-terpinene, p-cymene, Î²-caryophyllene, linal','Akram Pourjavadian, Ahmad Mehraban and Hamid Reza Ganjali (2015). Influence of water stress and potassium fertilizer on some characteristics of Satureja hortens , Biological Forum â€“ An International Journal 7(2): 619-621 . '),(4003,'112','Genetic Diversity Studies in Chilli (Capsicum annuum L.) Genotypes under Eastern Dry Zone of Karnataka','Gayathri R.*, M. Anjanappa, R.K. Ramachandra, K.S. Shankarappa and Meenakshi Sood','275 Genetic Diversity Studies in Chilli (Capsicum annuum L.) Genotypes under Eastern Dry Zone of Karnataka Gayathri R-275.pdf','',1,'Genetic divergence among the available germplasm is vital to a plant breeder for an efficient choice of parents for hybridization, hence studies on genetic diversity was conducted with 63 chilli (Capsicum annuum L.) genotypes at the Horticultural Research and Extension Centre, Hogalagere, Kolar, Karnataka, India during kharif 2020. The Mahalanobis D2 statistics were used to investigate genetic divergence among 63 genotypes. On the basis of genetic distance, these genotypes were broadly grouped into nine clusters. Cluster I and cluster IV had the maximum genotypes with 16, followed by cluster-II with 13 genotypes, cluster V with 8 genotypes and cluster VI, VII, VIII and IX each had one genotype. Among the different characters studied, green fruit yield per plant (20.00%) contributed the most to the total genetic diversity among the genotypes, followed by average green fruit weight (11.00%), number of fruits per plant (10.81%), dry fruit yield per plant (9.00%) and fruit length (8.00%). ','Chilli, genetic diversity, clusters, green fruit yield, hybridization','The information about the nature and magnitude of genetic divergence is essential for selection of diverse parents, which upon hybridization can result in productive hybrids. At present, there is urgent need to develop high yielding region specific varieties to address local problems and also varieties with wider adoptability. In this study, genetic divergence studies grouped sixty-three genotypes into nine clusters. The hybridization between genotypes of cluster VIII and cluster IX can be utilized for getting superior recombinants or transgressive segregates in segregating population because these clusters were found most divergent.','INTRODUCTION\r\nChilli (Capsicum annuum L.), known as the â€œwonder spice or hot pepperâ€ is one of the most important commercial spice crop used extensively worldwide. It was introduced to India by the Portuguese in the 17th century, and it was quickly incorporated into national cuisines (Bosland and Votava, 2000). Chilli is mostly utilized for its pungent flavour and pungency, taste, appealing colour and has its unique place in the diet as a vegetable cum spice crop. It contains vitamin C (111 mg/100 g), vitamin A (292 I.U/100 g), thiamine (0.19 mg/100 g), a small number of proteins, fats, carbohydrates, and traces of minerals such as molybdenum, manganese, folate, and potassium (Hosamani, 1993). \r\nIndia is the world\'s leading producer, consumer, and exporter of chilli. Chilli is grown over 364 thousand hectares in India, with a production of 3851 thousand metric tonnes (Anon., 2019). Haveri, Dharwad, Gadag, Koppal, Belgaum, Bellary, and Raichur are the most prominent chilli-growing d','Gayathri R., M. Anjanappa, R.K. Ramachandra, K.S. Shankarappa and Meenakshi Sood (2022). Genetic Diversity Studies in Chilli (Capsicum annuum L.) Genotypes Under Eastern Dry Zone of Karnataka. Biological Forum â€“ An International Journal, 14(1): 1567-157'),(4004,'112','Occurrence of tingid, Cochlochila bullita (Stal) (Heteroptera: Tingidae) on Tulsi in Manipur','Sushmita Thokchom*, Arati Ningombam and Romila Akoijam','276 Occurrence of tingid, Cochlochila bullita _Stal_ _Heteroptera Tingidae_ on Tulsi in Manipur Sushmita Thokchom.pdf','',1,'Cochlochila bullita was recently found infesting the tulsi plant causing drying of leaf tips and curling. Nymphs and adults are found both on the lower and upper surfaces of leaves. In Manipur, tulsi is popular in every home because of its medicinal purposes but is found to be hampered mostly by C. bullita. The nymphalexuviae can be observed, which represents the severity of the C. bullita. The length and breadth of the adults were 2.48 Â± 0.15 (2.25-2.69) mm and 1.38 Â± 0.07 (1.04-1.17) mm, respectively. The head measured 0.47 Â± 0.04 (0.49-0.60) mm in width. Therefore, this study finds out the occurrence of C. bullita in tulsi plant with its damaging symptoms and its potential to be the key pest of Ocimum species in Manipur. This is the first report of C. bullita feeding on the tulsi plant from Manipur, Northeast, India.','Cochlochila bullita, Tulsi, Damaging, Key pest, Manipur.','This is the first report of C. bullita feeding on the tulsi plant from Manipur, Northeast, India. More studies on C. bullita are needed as the genus Ocimum contains many economically important medicinal and aromatic plants species and its severity has been reported in other parts of India as akey pest of Ocimum species. Therefore, it is essential to study its host plant, feeding behavior and host-specific interactions to enable a greater understanding of this insect.','INTRODUCTION\r\nTulsi (Ocimum tenuiflorum), also called holy Basil belongs to the mint family, is found mainly in Southeast Asia. It is commonly grown in the courtyards of Hindu homes for worship. The tulsi leaves have antibacterial, antifungal properties and sometimes are used as a bio pesticide for insecticidal properties. Due to its many beneficial purposes, it has a massive demand among investors and farmers to grow it as a plantation crop (Sathe et al., 2014). Tulsi contains essential oils like camphor, linalool, germacren-D and 1, 8 cineole (Arabaci, 2004; Daneshian, 2013). It is helpful in the treatment of chronic colds, anxiety, snake and scorpion bites, fever, diarrhea, cardiovascular, gastric, hepatitis (Das et al., 2020). There is a meager article regarding the insect pests of tulsi apart from the work of Butani (1982), Saini & Mahla (1991), David (1993) and Kumar (2014) which reported Ceroplastodes cajani, Dialeurodes sp., Pycnarmon cribrata, Macrosiphum sp., and Helicoverpa ','Sushmita Thokchom, Arati Ningombam and Romila Akoijam (2022). Occurrence of tingid, Cochlochila bullita (Stal) (Heteroptera: Tingidae) on Tulsi in Manipur. Biological Forum â€“ An International Journal, 14(1): 1573-1575.'),(4005,'112','Screening of indigenous Chak-hao rice (Oryza sativa L.) Genotypes of Manipur for Resistance Reactions against Yellow Stem Borer (YSB), Scirpophaga incertulas (Walker)','Punam Bagang*, Ganesh Mohan Balaga and K.M. Singh','277 Screening of indigenous Chak-hao rice _Oryza sativa L._ Genotypes of Manipur for Resistance Reactions against Yellow Stem Borer _YSB_, Scirpophaga incertulas _Walker_ Punam Bagang.pdf','',1,'Rice genotypes indigenous to Manipur were screened for resistance reactions against yellow stem borer at the research field of College of Agriculture, Central Agricultural University, Imphal, Manipur. The study was carried out keeping in mind the ever growing popularity and lack of research in the field of insect infestation in Chak-hao rice genotypes and to know its bio-chemical properties related to insect infestation. The experimental design followed was Randomized Bock Design, with three replications and 19 genotypes (treatments). Insect infestation was recorded at 30, 45, 60, 75 and 90 DAT. Analysis of variance was performed after appropriate transformation of mean values obtained from the various experiments. Considering the average of six observations i.e. at 30, 45, 60, 75 and 90 DAT, the lowest per cent dead heart was observed in Kota Chak-hao with 3.58 per cent. Wairi Chak-hao showed highest per cent dead heart with 5.37 per cent. For finding the resistance reactions, biochem','Screening, Yellow stem borer (YSB), Randomized Block Design (RBD), Biochemical Analysis','In conclusion, we screened the infestation percent of rice yellow stem borer and analysed the basis of resistance and susceptibility in the comparatively selected susceptible and resistant chak-hao rice genotypes of Manipur. The present study documented that the rice stem borer infestation and total sugars were found to be highest in chak-hao Poireiton demonstrating that sugar content may be one of the factors for making the plants vulnerable to insect pest infestation while rice stem borer infestation and phenolic content were exhibited to be highest in Kothachak-hao. The supplementation of chak-hao rice in the diet has positive impacts on human health. In addition, it can be concluded that chak-hao has a defensive mechanism which can protect it against some of the diseases and pests as a result of the high anthocyanin and phenolic content. The anthocyanin pigment benefit the human health and are involved in the defensive mechanisms of plants. The current research on the importance of','INTRODUCTION\r\nRice genotypes known as chak-hao belong to the Oryza sativa L. species, and contain a high level of nutrients. They are mainly grown in Asia. In Manipur, a diverse array of these rice genotypes are available having a purplish grain colour mostly. The unique purple colour of chak-hao is due to high deposition of anthocyanins in the outer pericarp, seed coat and aleurone layer (Chaudhury, 2003). Chak-hao can be translated as delicious rice (Chak-rice; hao-delicious) (Roy et al., 2014). They are sold in the local markets at a premium rate. Chak-hao cultivars can grow well on stressful condition such as poor soil nutrient and water, drought and stress condition. However, are poor yielding as compared to hybrid varieties and traditional varieties (Borah et al., 2018). In recognition of its unique properties, the scope for its commercial cultivation and value addition for a profitable agro-business has been envisioned.\r\nOnly 20 species are important and occur regularly in tropi','Punam Bagang, Ganesh Mohan Balaga and K.M. Singh (2022). Screening of indigenous Chak-hao rice (Oryza sativa L.) Genotypes of Manipur for Resistance Reactions Against Yellow Stem Borer (YSB), Scirpophaga incertulas (Walker). Biological Forum â€“ An Intern'),(4006,'112','Effect of Plant Growth Regulators and Zinc Levels on Yield and Economics of Toria (Brassica rapa L.)','Varada Raj*, Rajesh Singh and Thakur Indu','278 Effect of Plant Growth Regulators and Zinc Levels on Yield and Economics of Toria Brassica rapa L. Varada Raj.pdf','',1,'At the Crop Research Farm, Department of Agronomy, SHUATS, Allahabad, a field experiment was undertaken during the Rabi season (2021-22). The soil texture of the experimental plot was sandy loam, with a pH of 7.1, low organic carbon (0.28 percent), available N (225 kg/ha), available P (19.50 kg/ha), and available K (213.7 kg/ha). PGR1 (GA3 30 ppm), PGR2 (GA3 60 ppm), and PGR3 (GA3 90 ppm) were used as plant growth regulators, and zinc (Zn1-5 kg/ha), Zn2-10 kg/ha), and Zn3-15 kg/ha) were used as fertilizers in 3 levels. The experiment used a Randomized Block Design with nine treatments and was repeated three times. The treatment of GA3 90 ppm + Zn 15 kg/ha resulted in the highest plant height (126.50cm) (Treatment-9) recorded in the study. Number of branches per plant (11.70), plant dry weight (14.50 g/plant), number of siliqua per plant (299.80), number of seeds per siliqua (23.20), test weight (3.23 g), seed yield (1.78 t/ha), straw yield (5.53 t/ha), and harvest index were all determ','Plant growth regulators, Growth, Yield, Zinc, Rabi, Gibberellic acid.','On the basis of one season experimentation it can be concluded that with the application of GA3 90 ppm + Zn 15 kg/ha was found more productive (1.78 t/ha) and economically viable (1.50).\r\nThe conclusions drawn are based on one season data only which requires further confirmation for recommendation.\r\n','INTRODUCTION\r\nRapeseed-mustard covers 6.23 million hectares in India, with production and productivity of 9.34 million tonnes and 1499 kg per hectare, respectively (India starts 2019-20). It is a significant Rabi crop. Mustard is grown between October and November and February and March. Rajasthan, Uttar Pradesh, and Haryana are the most important growing regions. In India, mustard rapeseed is typically produced in seven kinds. Our country\'s primary mustard-producing states are Rajasthan and Uttar Pradesh. They account for around half of overall production. Gibberellic acid (GA3) is a phytohormone required for plant growth and development in tiny quantities at low concentrations. So, in a given crop, advantageous conditions may be generated by exogenously injecting growth regulators like GA3 in the right concentration at the right time. Gibberellic acid is a plant growth regulator that can control a wide range of growth and development processes in a number of crops. GA3 improves plant','Varada Raj, Rajesh Singh and Thakur Indu (2022). Effect of Plant Growth Regulators and Zinc Levels on Yield and Economics of Toria (Brassica rapa L.). Biological Forum â€“ An International Journal, 14(1): 1582-1585.'),(4007,'118','Influence of intercropping corn and cow pea on some characteristic of corn','Mohsen Abbasi, Ahmad Mehraban and Hamid Reza Ganjali','101 AHMAD MEHRABAN.pdf','',1,'Generally, intercropping helps reduce the pressure of weeds. It has been noticed that the ability of intercropping in competing weeds depends on factors such as mixture of tillable plants, selective numbers, and plant aggregation, share of each tillable plant in intercropping, their layout and distance from each other, and prolificacy and moisture of the soil. Corns are mainly intercropped with legumes. One of the most important advantages of this mixture is the capability of stabilizing nitrogen in legumes. The field experiment was laid out split plot with factorial design with three replications. Treatments included wedding (no wedding, once wedding, twice wedding) and intercropping (pure cow pea, pure corn, 50% cow pea + 75% corn, 75% cow pea + 50% corn, 100% cow pea + 100% corn). Analysis of variance showed that the effect of wedding and intercropping on all characteristics was significant (except 1000 grain weight).','Grain yield, Biological yield, Plant height','Generally, intercropping helps reduce the pressure of weeds. It has been noticed that the ability of intercropping in competing weeds depends on factors such as mixture of tillable plants, selective numbers, and plant aggregation, share of each tillable plant in intercropping, their layout and distance from each other, and prolificacy and moisture of the soil. Corns are mainly intercropped with legumes. One of the most important advantages of this mixture is the capability of stabilizing nitrogen in legumes. The field experiment was laid out split plot with factorial design with three replications. Treatments included wedding (no wedding, once wedding, twice wedding) and intercropping (pure cow pea, pure corn, 50% cow pea + 75% corn, 75% cow pea + 50% corn, 100% cow pea + 100% corn). Analysis of variance showed that the effect of wedding and intercropping on all characteristics was significant (except 1000 grain weight). ','In agronomy, natural outlook has been expressed in different forms which stable agriculture is an example. Stable (permanent) agriculture is ascribed to the authentic management of agricultural resources, which in addition to fulfilling the ever-changing needs of humans, maintains the health of environment and capacity of water and soil resources (Reijntjesetal, 1992). From among agricultural elements, one can name agrofarstry, incorporative management of plague, tillage alternation, and intercropping. Although intercropping systems existed as traditional crop since long, yet nowadays many researchers (Ganbari- Bonjar, 2000) have practiced it. Intercropping, the agricultural practice of cultivating two or more crops in the same space at the same time is an old and commonly used cropping practice which aims to match efficiently crop demands to the available growth resources and labor. The most common advantage of intercropping is the production of greater yield on a given piece of land ','Mohsen Abbasi, Ahmad Mehraban and Hamid Reza Ganjali (2015). Influence of intercropping corn and cow pea on some characteristic of corn , Biological Forum â€“ An International Journal 7(2): 622-625.'),(4008,'118','Genetic Variation in Iranian Germplasm of rapeseed (Brasica napus L.)','Sobhan Ataei, Valiollah Mohammadi, Farzad Javidfar and Abbas Ali Zali','102 SOBHAN ATAEI.pdf','',1,'Evaluation of genetic diversity among wild and crop plants population is necessary for protection, conservation and useful application of germplasms, identification of genetic content of important breeding traits related to breeding purposes. There are various techniques available, which allow study the genetic variability of crop germplasm; Morphological traits, total seed protein, isozymes and several types of DNA markers examples. The experiment was conducted at the research farm of the Tehran University in Karaj in simple lattice design 9 Ã— 9 were planted. The number of days to the beginning of flowering, the number of days to the completed of flowering and the number of days to the end of flowering were evaluated. Hyola401 with 4680 kg/ha was the most high yielding variety and would most probably have high oil yield per unit area due to its great oil content.','Days to the beginning of flowering, day to the completed of flowering, day to the end of flowering','Evaluation of genetic diversity among wild and crop plants population is necessary for protection, conservation and useful application of germplasms, identification of genetic content of important breeding traits related to breeding purposes. There are various techniques available, which allow study the genetic variability of crop germplasm; Morphological traits, total seed protein, isozymes and several types of DNA markers examples. The experiment was conducted at the research farm of the Tehran University in Karaj in simple lattice design 9 Ã— 9 were planted. The number of days to the beginning of flowering, the number of days to the completed of flowering and the number of days to the end of flowering were evaluated. Hyola401 with 4680 kg/ha was the most high yielding variety and would most probably have high oil yield per unit area due to its great oil content.','Canola is one of the most important oil crops in the world (Bybordi, 2010). Winter rapeseed (Brassica napus L.) is an important agricultural crop, grown commonly for oil or biofuel production. After oil extraction, the high protein seed residue can be used as animal feed. Winter rapeseed is mainly cultivated in Europe, Asia, North America and Australia, but has a limited acreage in Turkey. Presently, over 50% of vegetable oil consumed in Turkey is imported from abroad. Rapeseed production has potential as an alternative income source for the Turkey producer. Although its production is still limited, this crop has large expansion possibilities. It is an alternative principally in areas where wheat (Triticum aestivum L.) is the only winter crop or in marginal areas for this cereal (Assare et al., 1995). Oilseed canola plant (Brassica napus L.) is an important agricultural crop grown primarily for its edible oil and the meal that remains after oil extraction has value as a source of prote','Sobhan Ataei, Valiollah Mohammadi, Farzad Javidfar and Abbas Ali Zali (2015). Genetic Variation in Iranian Germplasm of rapeseed (Brasica napus L.) ,Biological Forum â€“ An International Journal 7(2): 626-632.'),(4009,'118','Comparison of Three Methods of Exercise on Insulin Sensitivity Index of Middle-Aged Men','Seyed Mahmoud Hejazi, Amin Zahedi Anaraki and Vahdat Boghrabadi','103 AMIN ZAHEDI ANARAKI.pdf','',1,'This study is aimed to compare the efficacy of three exercise methods on insulin sensitivity indexes of middle-aged men. This study was a quasi-experimental and was carried out with field method. To this end, 48 men were selected with an average BMI 0.8 Â± 31.4 (range of 30 to 32) and the mean age 0.95 Â± 35.9 (range of 35 to 40). Selected patients were divided into 3 groups of low-intensity exercise, moderate and high intensity and a control group. None of participants had a record of specific diseases or record of sports activity. During blood taking time (eight weeks) controls didn\'t have any specific exercise but the experimental group undergone aerobic exercise on a treadmill with an intensity of 55 to 65 percent, 65 to 75 percent and 75 to 85 percent of maximum heart rate three times a week. Kolmogorov - Smirnov tests were used to determine the normal distribution of samples, and then ANOVA and Tukey tests were used. ANOVA test results showed that there is a difference between th','Glucose, Insulin, Insulin Resistance, Aerobic Exercise, Low-Intensity Exercise, Moderate-Intensity Exercise, High-Intensity Exercise','There is a difference between the effect of exercises with different intensities on the level of glucose, and exercises decreased glucose level, but the effect of high-intensity exercises is more effective in reducing glucose levels. The results of this study are consistent with the results of Fallah et al who studied the glucose changes in mice with diabetes, Amini and Lari, also witnessed the glucose reduction in obese women with diabetes, the results are also consistent with the studies of Ribs et al, Mother et al, Aniteh Doy, College et al, the results of the present study are not consistent with the research results of Fathi who investigated the effect of low intensity resistance exercise in streptozotocin-diabetic rats, there were no significant changes in glucose, insulin, omentin, and lipid profile, it seems that low intensity exercise and its short period have important role in the absence of significant changes in glucose, insulin and omentin. The reason for the difference be','Obesity and its related diseases is one of the great problems of mankind, as a result of factors such as increasing prevalence of obesity caused by unhealthy urbanization life and increasing aging of societies, the prevalence of diabetes is increasing rapidly in the world and unfortunately this increase in developing countries, including our country is more dramatic. Accumulation of adipose tissue is closely related to obesity, adipose tissue other than the storage of lipids has an important role in the regulation of energy homeostasis, insulin sensitivity and lipid and carbohydrate metabolism. Overweight and obesity, as defined by the World Health Organization (WHO) is abnormal or excessive fat accumulation in the body that impairs a person\'s health and improper increase of this tissue is along with glucose and fat and insulin resistance and endothelial functional abnormalities and chronic infections. This tissue is one of the largest endocrine organs of the body and is needed for nor','Seyed Mahmoud Hejazi, Amin Zahedi Anaraki and Vahdat Boghrabadi (2015). Comparison of Three Methods of Exercise on Insulin Sensitivity Index of Middle-Aged Men , Biological Forum â€“ An International Journal 7(2): 633-638.'),(4010,'118','The comparison of various concentrations of 2,4-D and IBA hormons on Rooting of Cutting Roses','Yusef Barahyi, Hamid Reza Mobasser and Yahya Dehghani Shuraki','104 DR HAMIDREZA ABKHAST.pdf','',1,'Roses (Rosa hybirida) belong to family Rosaceae and Genus Rosa which contains more than 150 species and 1400 cultivars. Rose is a symbol of perfection, elegance, romance and love. It was called \"The Queen of Flowers\" firstly by Greek poetess in her \"Ode to the Rose\". Rose is recognized for their high economic value, which are used in agro-based industry especially in cosmetics and perfumes. Additionally, roses play a vital role in the manufacturing of various products of medicinal and nutritional importance. IBA is one of the most common materials that are used in stimulating rooting. IBA of relatively slow and weak auxin, auxin-degrading enzyme system of a material is chemically stable, has a great effect on root production. The field experiment was laid out factorial with randomized complete block design with three replications. Treatments included 2,4-D (1, 2, 3 and 4 mg/lit) and IBA (1000, 2000, 3000 and 4000 mg/lit). Analysis of variance showed that the effect of IBA and 2,4-D on ','Number of root, Root height, Root fresh weight, Root dry weight','Roses (Rosa hybirida) belong to family Rosaceae and Genus Rosa which contains more than 150 species and 1400 cultivars. Rose is a symbol of perfection, elegance, romance and love. It was called \"The Queen of Flowers\" firstly by Greek poetess in her \"Ode to the Rose\". Rose is recognized for their high economic value, which are used in agro-based industry especially in cosmetics and perfumes. Additionally, roses play a vital role in the manufacturing of various products of medicinal and nutritional importance. IBA is one of the most common materials that are used in stimulating rooting. IBA of relatively slow and weak auxin, auxin-degrading enzyme system of a material is chemically stable, has a great effect on root production. The field experiment was laid out factorial with randomized complete block design with three replications. Treatments included 2,4-D (1, 2, 3 and 4 mg/lit) and IBA (1000, 2000, 3000 and 4000 mg/lit). Analysis of variance showed that the effect of IBA and 2,4-D on ','Rose, a universally celebrated flower, has been used as a garden plant since the dawn of civilization. Rose is a symbol of perfection, elegance, romance and love. It was called \"The Queen of Flowers\" firstly by Greek poetess in her \"Ode to the Rose\" (Muhammad et al., 1996). Roses (Rosa hybirida) belong to family Rosaceae and Genus Rosa which contains more than 150 species and 1400 cultivars (Synge, 1971). Rose enjoys superiority over all other flowers being extensively used for decorative purposes and is prized for its delicate nature, beauty, charm and aroma. Rose is recognized for their high economic value, which are used in agro-based industry especially in cosmetics and perfumes. Additionally, roses play a vital role in the manufacturing of various products of medicinal and nutritional importance. However, the main idea of rose plant cultivation is to get the cut flowers, which greatly deals with the floricultural business (Butt, 2003). There is a tremendous diversity of growth hab','Yusef Barahyi, Hamid Reza Mobasser and Yahya Dehghani Shuraki (2015). The comparison of various concentrations of 2,4-D and IBA hormons on Rooting of Cutting Roses , Biological Forum â€“ An nternational Journal 7(2): 639-641.'),(4011,'118','Variation Assessment of Olive Cultivars in a Germplasm Established in the North of Iran Using ISSR Markers','Ali Bahmani, Mohammad-Reza Dadpour, Asad Asadi-Abkenar and Fariborz Zare-Nahandi','105 ALI BAHMANI.pdf','',1,'In this study, variation and inter-relationship of 31 olive cultivars (seven Iranian and 24 foreign cultivars), collected in a germplasm in the north of Iran, were analyzed using Inter Simple Sequence Repeat (ISSR) markers. Nine primers were used for allele scoring. In total, 44 ISSR polymorphic alleles were detected. Cluster analysis of the ISSR data showed inter-cultivar variation for Mediterranean cultivars of Italy, Spain and Greece and they were clearly distinct from the Iranian and Syrian cultivars. The principal coordinate analysis (PCoA) explained 22.55% and 20.78% of the total variation along the first (PC1) and second (PC2) component, respectively. In general, the PCoA plot revealed same affinities for the cultivars as the phylogenetic tree. The outcome of this study could be useful for construction of a molecular database of the cultivars which can be used in breeding and cultivar improvement. ','Cluster analysis, Genetic diversity, ISSR, Olive ','In this study, variation and inter-relationship of 31 olive cultivars (seven Iranian and 24 foreign cultivars), collected in a germplasm in the north of Iran, were analyzed using Inter Simple Sequence Repeat (ISSR) markers. Nine primers were used for allele scoring. In total, 44 ISSR polymorphic alleles were detected. Cluster analysis of the ISSR data showed inter-cultivar variation for Mediterranean cultivars of Italy, Spain and Greece and they were clearly distinct from the Iranian and Syrian cultivars. The principal coordinate analysis (PCoA) explained 22.55% and 20.78% of the total variation along the first (PC1) and second (PC2) component, respectively. In general, the PCoA plot revealed same affinities for the cultivars as the phylogenetic tree. The outcome of this study could be useful for construction of a molecular database of the cultivars which can be used in breeding and cultivar improvement. ','Olive (Olea europaea L. subspeuropaea var. europaea) is native to the Mediterranean Basin. Referring to the Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations (FAO); Spain, Italy, Greece, Turkey and Morocco are the top five olive producing countries in the world. Besides the traditionally popular Mediterranean basin, the cultivation of olive tree is spread to other countries like the United States, India, Australia, Japan, Chile, Pakistan, Afghanistan and other Asian, African and Middle Eastern countries. \r\nOlive cultivation and industry has a long history in Iran. According to FAO statistics, the cultivated areas of olive in Iran were 110,000 hectares of which 48,000 hectares were bearing. Also the total olive production of the world was 18 million tons per year and Iran by producing 102000 tons was ranked the sixteenth (FAO, 2010). Olive is mainly being produced in Fars, Kerman, Hormuzgan, Sistan-Baluchestan, Qazvin, Gilan, Golestan and Zanjan provinces of Iran. With respect to ','Ali Bahmani, Mohammad-Reza Dadpour, Asad Asadi-Abkenar and Fariborz Zare-Nahandi (2015). Variation Assessment of Olive Cultivars in a Germplasm Established in the North of Iran Using ISSR Markers , Biological Forum â€“ An International Journal 7(2): 642-'),(4012,'118','Influence of variety, Azotobacter and Azospirillum on some characteristic of corn','Salman Ghodusi, Hamid Reza Mobasser and Hamid Reza Ganjali','106 DR HAMIDREZA.pdf','',1,'Corn is the most powerful cultivation plant and the greatest attraction and storage of free energy in the earth and in terms of energy, it is a good food for livestock and it is full of energy and it is the main food of a great number of people as directly or indirectly via livestock and vegetable products and it has the highest position in comparison with other cereals. Due to this, it is called the lord of cereals. Biological products and especially the use of Aszosprilium spp appeared among the new the technologies for optimizing plant implantation, Aszosprilium is growth promoting Rhizobacteria (PGPR) capable of colonizing the root and stimulating root growth thus enhancing mineral and water uptake plants. Treatments included variety of corn (700, 703, 704 and 647) and (control, Azospirillum, Azotobacter, Azospirillum + Azotobacter). Analysis of variance showed that the effect of variety and bacteria on all characteristic was significant. ','Leaf dry weight, Stem diameter, Stem height, Number of leaf per plant ','Corn is the most powerful cultivation plant and the greatest attraction and storage of free energy in the earth and in terms of energy, it is a good food for livestock and it is full of energy and it is the main food of a great number of people as directly or indirectly via livestock and vegetable products and it has the highest position in comparison with other cereals. Due to this, it is called the lord of cereals. Biological products and especially the use of Aszosprilium spp appeared among the new the technologies for optimizing plant implantation, Aszosprilium is growth promoting Rhizobacteria (PGPR) capable of colonizing the root and stimulating root growth thus enhancing mineral and water uptake plants. Treatments included variety of corn (700, 703, 704 and 647) and (control, Azospirillum, Azotobacter, Azospirillum + Azotobacter). Analysis of variance showed that the effect of variety and bacteria on all characteristic was significant. ','Maize (Zea mays L.) is the world\'s most widely grown cereal, and it is ranked third among major cereal crops (Ayisi and Poswell, 1997). Corn is the most powerful cultivation plant and the greatest attraction and storage of free energy in the earth and in terms of energy, it is a good food for livestock and it is full of energy and it is the main food of a great number of people as directly or indirectly via livestock and vegetable products and it has the highest position in comparison with other cereals. Due to this, it is called the lord of cereals (Nourmohammadiand Kashani, 1998). In developed countries maize is mainly grown for animal feed, industrial products such asglucose, dextrose, and starch and specialized foods (Malvar et al., 2008). Maize is produced on nearly 100 million hectares in developing countries, with almost 70 % of the total maize production in the developing world coming from low and lower middle income countries (FAOSTAT, 2010). By 2050 demand for maize will doub','Salman Ghodusi, Hamid Reza Mobasser and Hamid Reza Ganjali (2015). Influence of variety, Azotobacter and Azospirillum on some characteristic of corn , Biological Forum â€“ An International Journal 7(2): 648-651 . '),(4013,'118','Anti-Respiratory Syncytial Viral (RSV) Activity in the Extract of Green Mussel, Perna viridis (L)','Siddhartha Pati, Chinnari Sumedha Anil Chatterji and Bisnu P. Dash','107 DR ANIL CHATTERJI.pdf','',1,'The presence of anti-Respiratory Syncytial Viral (RSV) activity in the extracts of green mussel (Perna viridis L) was carried out using human RSV (Sub type-A haem-agglutination titer 1:512). Results of the reducing action of thr virus strain A-RSV on fragments of Chorio-allantoic Membrane (CAM) for in vitro assay and the Expected Infectious Doses (EID50) values obtained against the crude mussel extract, indicated a significant antiviral activity (reduction of infection by 66.66%) when the Heam-agglutination Assay (HA) was performed. However, the aqueous fraction showed a very weak activity (13.63%) as compared to the extract prepared in methanol. The percent inhibition of â‰¥ 86% indicated a significant anti-Respiratory Syncytial Viral activity in the fraction obtained in methanolic extract. The reduction in virus infection in the fraction prepared in methanol showed a very high potential to control the Respiratory Syncytial Viral disease in human.','Anti-Respiratory Syncytial Viral activity, green mussel, P. viridis ','The present study showed that the green mussel has a great potential in developing useful anti-viral drug specially to control respiratory syncytial viral infections among children and old aged people. The EID50 values obtained against the crude mussel extract indicated an antiviral activity (reduction of infection by 66.66%) when the Heamagglutination Assay (HA) was performed. The aqueous fraction showed a very weak activity (13.63%) as compared to the methanolic extract where percent inhibition â‰¥ 86% indicated a significant anti-Respiratory Syncytial Viral activity. It is expected that the methanolic extract prepared from the green mussel would be useful in developing an effective prophylactic and therapeutic anti-viral drug. The isolation and purification of active component from the green mussel extract will certainly be helpful in protecting and treating various viral diseases in human beings, in near future.','Respiratory Syncytial Virus (RSV) is a major respiratory disease common among infants and young children. However, the group also includes premature infants, older adults and people of any age who are at high risk of severe disease cause by RSV or even death (Figueras-Aloy et al., 2004). The virus causes acute headache, cough, fever and weakness to the patient. Infection cause by Respiratory Syncytial Virus in premature babies and kids leads to even more complications affecting severely the lungs, heart and immune system. RSV infection primarily manifests as bronchiolitis or pneumonia resulting in ~75,000 to 125,000 hospitalizations in the United States, every year (Leader and Kohlhase, 2003; Brief Report, 2007)). The virus is highly contagious and can be spread through droplets when an infected person coughs or sneezes (Hall and Douglas, 1981). The virus can also survive on surfaces such as countertops or doorknobs and on hands and clothing which can easily be spread when a normal pe','Siddhartha Pati, Chinnari Sumedha Anil Chatterji and Bisnu P. Dash (2015).Anti-Respiratory Syncytial Viral (RSV) Activity in the Extract of Green Mussel, Perna viridis (L) , Biological Forum â€“ An International Journal 7(2): 652-656 .'),(4014,'118','Influence of Foliar Application of Micronutrients and Vermicompost on some characteristics of crop plants','Habib Noori Sadegh, Hamid Reza Zakerin, Tayebeh Yousefi, Seyed Majid Hashemi and Mojdeh Farmanbar\r\n','108 HABIB NOORI SADEGH.pdf','',1,'Micro-nutrients such as iron, zinc and boron are essential for different biological functions that might be attributed to tree yield and fruit quality. It is also increased resistance to disease and insect pests and improved drought tolerance. Now it is a well-established fact that organic fertilizers provide enough requirements for proper growth of the crop plant and may enhance the uptake of nutrients, increase the assimilation capacity and will stimulate the hormonal activity as well. Vermicompost is also useful as it increases soil porosity, aeration and water holding capacity. Vermicompost increases the surface area, provides strong absorbability and retention of nutrients as well and retain more nutrients for a longer period of time. It has been found that soil amended with vermicompost had significantly greater soil bulk density and the soil does not become.','Tobacco, wheat, corn, Safflower','Micro-nutrients such as iron, zinc and boron are essential for different biological functions that might be attributed to tree yield and fruit quality. It is also increased resistance to disease and insect pests and improved drought tolerance. Now it is a well-established fact that organic fertilizers provide enough requirements for proper growth of the crop plant and may enhance the uptake of nutrients, increase the assimilation capacity and will stimulate the hormonal activity as well. Vermicompost is also useful as it increases soil porosity, aeration and water holding capacity. Vermicompost increases the surface area, provides strong absorbability and retention of nutrients as well and retain more nutrients for a longer period of time. It has been found that soil amended with vermicompost had significantly greater soil bulk density and the soil does not become. ','Tobacco (Nicotiana tabacum L.). Tobacco (Nicotiana tabacum L.) belongs to the family Solanaceae, which is widely grown throughout the world for the manufacturing of cigarettes, cigars and bids also utilized for snuff, hokka and chewing purposes (Poustini and Shamel, 2000). The chemical composition of tobacco leaf plays an important role in the evaluation of tobacco quality such as nicotine, sugar, potassium, and chloride contents. The absolute and relative amount of these constituents not only depends upon on crop varieties, maturity, soil and climatic conditions and curing process, but also depends on the responsive mineral nutrition of tobacco, such as boron (Tariq, 2010). Boron is one of the deficient micronutrient after zinc in Pakistan (Rashid, 1996) and perhaps this micronutrient not only affect the yield but it also affect the marketing value of tobacco leaf. Boron deficiency as well as toxicity causes many physiological and biochemical changes within plants, most of which repre','Habib Noori Sadegh, Hamid Reza Zakerin, Tayebeh Yousefi, Seyed Majid Hashemi and Mojdeh Farmanbar (2015). Influence of Foliar Application of Micronutrients and Vermicompost on some characteristics of crop plants , Biological Forum â€“ An International Jou'),(4015,'118','Study of Effects Difference Levels of Crude Protein and Amino Acid of Diet on Intestinal Morphological and Blood Biological Parameters of Poultry','Mostafa Ahmadi, Akbar Yaghobfar and Seyed Hossein Tabatabaei','109 AKBAR YAGHOBFAR.pdf','',1,'A total of 720 Arian chicks were used in this study to determine the effects of diets formulation based on different expression systems of amino acids of feeds and requirements on performance, intestinal Morphological and blood biological parameters. Four diets were arranged in a 2 Ã— 2 factorial design with 2 systems of amino acids of feeds (TAAf & DAAf) and 2 methods of amino acids requirement (TAAr & DAAr) from 1 to 42 days of age. Each treatment was replicated six times with each replicate consisting of 15 males and 15 females. The results showed that when the feed formulation was based on DAAf and DAAr the BW, BWG, total CP, Albumin, globulin, villi length increased. It is concluded that use of DAAf and DAAr methods to feed formulation could improve the productive and physiological performance in broilers.','Intestinal Morphological, Blood Biological Parameters, Amino Acids','The results showed that digestible amino acid pattern for feed (DAAf) and digestible amino acid requirements of broiler chick s more accurate than total amino acid pattern (TAAf and TAAr). Diets formulation based on these models, improved enzymatic activity, serum metabolic parameters and consequently performance. It is suggested that to improve physiological, performance and consequently economic efficiency of broiler chick use the DAA pattern to diet formulation.','Farming sustainably means growing crops and livestock in ways that meet three objectives simultaneously: Economic profit, Social benefits to the farm family and the community Environmental conservation. It is a system of agriculture that will maintain its productivity over the long run. Sustainable farming could be Organic farming, biodynamic, perm culture, agro ecological systems and low input. The goal of sustainable agriculture is to minimize adverse impacts to the immediate and off-farm environments while providing a sustained level of production and profit. Sustainable agriculture is influenced by environmental climate, soil types and the various crops, types of farm practices employed and Nutritional systems. Total energy and amino acids content in diet are not fully utilized by birds. Their availability depend on the species of bird, feed intake, anti-nutritional factors, feed processing, systems of feeding, etc. It has been suggested that proper nutrients is supplied through re','Mostafa Ahmadi, Akbar Yaghobfar and Seyed Hossein Tabatabaei (2015). Study of Effects Difference Levels of Crude Protein and Amino Acid of Diet on Intestinal Morphological and Blood Biological Parameters of Poultry , Biological Forum â€“ An International '),(4016,'118','Reducing effects of the combination of Methimazole and Propylene glycol Propolis extract on the Bleomycin-induced pulmonary fibrosis','Fatemeh Afzalnia and Iraj Javadi','110 FARZANEH AFZALNIA.pdf','',1,'Bleomycin is a useful anti-cancer antibiotics, because, unlike other anti-cancer drugs, it has the least toxic effects on bone marrow cells, so, the blood complications caused by it is minimal. In this study, the combination of Methimazole as an antioxidant and the Propyleneglycol Propolis (PP) extractwith strong anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties was examined. In this experiment, the animal model of adult male Wistar rat was used. Positive control group, negative control group 1 (Normal saline), PG negative control group (Propylene glycol) and combined therapy group, including 80 mg/kg of Methimazole and 50 ml/kg of PP extract, simultaneously received Bleomycinthroughintraperitoneal injection as a treatment for a period of 7-day pretreatment and for 14 days after endotrachealinjection.The amount of Hydroxyproline (OH-Proline) and Malonedialdehyde (MDA) in Bleomycin group was respectively 72.8% and 128% more than them in Saline group. The amount of mentioned factors in combin','Bleomycin, Pulmonary fibrosis, Methimazole, Propylene glycol Propolis (PP) extract','In this study, it has been shown that the combination of these two substances could reduce the development of pulmonary fibrosis. Pulmonary toxicity of Bleomycin in rats after administrating a dose of Bleomycin through endotracheal injection is similar to the pulmonary complications induced by systemic administration of the drug in human (Kevin et al., 2010). The morphologic changes in the lungs of the animals show that injecting Bleomycincauses the increase of lungweight in Bleomycin and treatment groups in comparison with control group. This increase is due to two reasons: edema and fluid accumulation in the lung tissue that are the consequence of the destruction of alveoli and fluid accumulation in the destructed cavities and another reason is the accumulation of collagen in the lung tissue by fibroblasts (Selman et al., 2001). The increase of the Malonedialdehyde in the rats of positive control group (Bleomycin) is due to the formation and progression of the inflammatory reactions','Bleomycin is a useful anti-cancer antibiotics, because, unlike other anti-cancer drugs, it has the least toxic effects on bone marrow cells, so, the blood complications caused by it is minimal. This outstanding advantage makes it possible that in most cases, this drug can be used in combination with other chemotherapy drugs. Also, it exacerbates the effects of the drugs such as Vinblastine Sulfate and Cisplatin so that administration of themis reduced in the treatment of testicular cancer to one-third. Due to the dangerous and fatal side effect of pulmonary fibrosis, in 10% of the patients treated by Bleomycin, it is observed that 1% of them eventually leads to death. Because of this, its clinical application is faced with a serious problem (Daba et al., 2002). In fact, idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis is a chronic and deadly disease that there is no known cure for it (Johnson et al 2003). The mechanism of the action of Bleomycin is unknown but it is said that after a series of redox reac','Fatemeh Afzalnia and Iraj Javadi (2015). Reducing effects of the combination of Methimazole and Propylene glycol Propolis extract on the Bleomycin-induced pulmonary fibrosis , Biological Forum â€“ An International Journal 7(2): 671-677 . '),(4017,'118','A New Record on Inducement of Differentiation of Dendritic Cells by the Peri-vitelline Fluid of the Fertilized Eggs of Indian Horseshoe Crab (Tachypleus gigas, MÃ¼ller)','Chinnari Sumedha, Siddhartha Pati, B. P. Dash* and Anil Chatterji','111 ANIL CHATTERJI.pdf','',1,'The CRUDE-PVF was demonstrated to possess the ability to induce differentiation of dendritic cells from its bone marrow precursors. A number of studies have identified pathogen and host products such as proteins that induce the maturation of different DC subsets. Owing to their fully mature status these DCs are more programmed for antigen presentation and T-cell stimulation and have reduced capacity to capture antigens of pathogens. Immature DCs that are de novo differentiated from precursors offer better advantage than mature DCs because of their ability to scavenge pathogens followed by their uptake and processing and subsequent presentation to T lymphocytes. Our observation on the ability of CRUDE-PVF to induce differentiation of Dendritic Cells from mouse bone marrow leukocyte precursors, therefore, assumes paramount importance and is a significant step towards modulation of immune responses controlled by DCs. As the DCs differentiated by CRUDE-PVF are immature in nature and r','Peri-vitelline fluid, fertilized eggs, horseshoe crab, dendritic cells','The CRUDE-PVF was demonstrated to possess the ability to induce differentiation of dendritic cells from its bone marrow precursors. A number of studies have identified pathogen and host products such as proteins that induce the maturation of different DC subsets. Owing to their fully mature status these DCs are more programmed for antigen presentation and T-cell stimulation and have reduced capacity to capture antigens of pathogens. Immature DCs that are de novo differentiated from precursors offer better advantage than mature DCs because of their ability to scavenge pathogens followed by their uptake and processing and subsequent presentation to T lymphocytes. Our observation on the ability of CRUDE-PVF to induce differentiation of Dendritic Cells from mouse bone marrow leukocyte precursors, therefore, assumes paramount importance and is a significant step towards modulation of immune responses controlled by DCs. As the DCs differentiated by CRUDE-PVF are immature in nature and r','Dendritic cells (DCs) constitute the most potent Antigen Presetting Cells (APCs) and act as a bridge between the innate and the acquired arm of the immune system (Stein et al., 1999, Takeshi et al., 2001, Morgensen, 2009). This is largely attributed to the ability of DCs to pick-up the antigen and stimulate primary naÃ¯ve quiescent T-cells, thereby initiating a primary immune response. DCs exist in various states of activation that translates into distinct functions. For example, DCs arising from the Bone Marrow (BM) are essentially immature DCs. These DCs exhibit low levels of T-cell costimulatory molecules such as CD80, CD86, CD40 and CD54 and also low levels of the surface MHC class I and class II molecules (Coutant et al., 2002, O\'Sullivan and Thomas, 2003). Further, these DCs express a range of phagocytic, endocytic and scavenger receptors.\r\n Owing to the above features DCs are thus organized themselves tor capturing and up taking antigens. Upon contact with various inflammat','Chinnari Sumedha, Siddhartha Pati, B. P. Dash* and Anil Chatterji (2015). A New Record on Inducement of Differentiation of Dendritic Cells by the Peri-vitelline Fluid of the Fertilized Eggs of Indian Horseshoe Crab (Tachypleus gigas, MÃ¼ller) , Biological'),(4018,'118','Estimation of Vitamin C Content in Artificially Packed Juices of Two Commercially Attracted Companies in Relation to Their Significance for Human Health','Huma Tareen, Sana Ahmed, Fariha Mengal, Zubia Masood, Sherino Bibi, Rabia Mengal, Sara Shoaib*, Uzma Irum*, Sadia Akbar*, Fazila Mandokhail and Rukshana Taj','112 ZUBIA MASOOD.pdf','',1,'The objective of this study was to determine the vitamin C content in artificially prepared juices of orange, grapes, apple and mango juices of two different local companies i.e., Nestle and Shezan from Quetta city of Pakistan by titrimetric method. The method used in the present study was found to be cheap, accurate and could be easily practice in routine analysis. The obtained results of present study indicated that the concentration of vitamin C in Company A (Nestle) was recorded as i.e., 16.2, 9.26, 5.6, 4.8g/l for Orange, red grapes, apple and mango juices, respectively. While the content of vitamin C in company B (Shezan) was noted as7.4, 6.4, 5.04 and 4.06g/l for orange, red grapes, apple and mango juices, respectively. From the obtained results, it has been concluded that the content of Vitamin C was less variable among artificial juices prepared in two different companies selected in the present study. Moreover, it was also observed that the artificial preserved juices contain','Vitamin C, Titrimetric method, Artificial preserved juices.','Vitamin C, the major vitamin can be efficiently analyzed and compared by iodometric titration method. From the results it can be concluded that among the two different commercially attracted companies content of vitamin C was variable amongst two different companies selected for the present study. From the obtained results. It was also concluded that fresh fruits have more amount of vitamin C as compared to artificial juices and drinks because fruit is pickled fresh, not stored, preserved or exposed to oxygen. Thus the present study will provide useful information for the nutritionalists as well as diet conscious peoples that normally used these commercially available packed fruit juices in their daily diet. ','The principal vitamin available in fruit juices is vitamin C, chemically known as ascorbic acid (AA). It is a powerful antioxidant naturally present in food and food products. It plays an important role in the prevention of infectious diseases. Vitamin C is also known as Ascorbic acid, L-ascorbic acid and the Antiscorbutic Vitamin. More than 90% of the vitamin C in human diets is supplied by vegetable, fruits and fruit juices (Alibone, 2000). \r\nDifferent kinds of fruits are processed into juices. During processing of fruits into juices, the loss of some nutrients occur due to which than sugars, acids, colorants, water, preservatives and other additives are often added into the pure juice for long-term preservation. Loss of Vitamin during processing is also of great concern for nutritionists, processors and consumers. The taste and health benefits of the processed juices are inclined by variations in the composition of the sugars, organic acids and vitamins. Since vitamin C is an import','Huma Tareen, Sana Ahmed, Fariha Mengal, Zubia Masood, Sherino Bibi, Rabia Mengal, Sara Shoaib*, Uzma Irum*, Sadia Akbar*, Fazila Mandokhail and Rukshana Taj (2015). Estimation of Vitamin C Content in Artificially Packed Juices of Two Commercially Attracte'),(4019,'118','The Effects of Quince Seed Mucilage and Carboxymethyl Cellulose Coating on the Chemical Properties of French Fries','Nasim Allahyari, Parviz Bashiri and Asad Rokhzadi','113 ASAD ROKHZADI.pdf','',1,'Potato variety Satina after slicing (6 Ã— 1 Ã— 1 dimensions) was coated by dipping in 0.5, 1 and 1.5 percent of quince seed mucilage and carboxymethyl cellulose (CMC). These samples with a control group, which was not covered, were fried in oil, then acid and peroxide values of samples were measured. Use of hydrocolloid coating caused a significant decrease (P<0.05) in the peroxide and acid values due to the heating. The control sample revealed the highest acid value and mucilage 1.5% had the lowest acid value. In general the value of acidity was decreased as the result of increasing the concentration of hydrocolloids. Results showed that the use of the selected hydrocolloid coatings significantly reduced the peroxide value in comparison with the control group. Mean comparison of coating factor effect on peroxide value showed that peroxide value in control group had the highest amount in the entire testing process.','Quince seed, potato, carboxymethyl cellulose, coating.','Potato variety Satina after slicing (6 Ã— 1 Ã— 1 dimensions) was coated by dipping in 0.5, 1 and 1.5 percent of quince seed mucilage and carboxymethyl cellulose (CMC). These samples with a control group, which was not covered, were fried in oil, then acid and peroxide values of samples were measured. Use of hydrocolloid coating caused a significant decrease (P<0.05) in the peroxide and acid values due to the heating. The control sample revealed the highest acid value and mucilage 1.5% had the lowest acid value. In general the value of acidity was decreased as the result of increasing the concentration of hydrocolloids. Results showed that the use of the selected hydrocolloid coatings significantly reduced the peroxide value in comparison with the control group. Mean comparison of coating factor effect on peroxide value showed that peroxide value in control group had the highest amount in the entire testing process. ','Deep frying is one of the old cooking methods and it is widely used for production of crisp and tasty foods (Daraie Garmakhani et al., 2011). During frying, water vapor and other constituents of the food material will be transferred to fat. High temperatures for a long time leads to the destruction of the frying oil (De Meulenaer et al., 2007). On the other hand, during frying, complex changes, including physical (increasing viscosity and density, increasing turbidity and the desire to create foam in oil, reducing the smoke point, reducing the surface tension), chemical (increasing peroxide and free fatty acids, increasing high molecular weight compounds, decreasing stability, reducing the amount of unsaturated fatty acids) and organoleptic (including reduced taste) changes occur in oil that have a direct impact on quality and safety of food material (MacKay, 2000).\r\nPeroxide value is such quantity that oil quality is studied based on it during the production, storage and sale of the p','Nasim Allahyari, Parviz Bashiri and Asad Rokhzadi (2015). The Effects of Quince Seed Mucilage and Carboxymethyl Cellulose Coating on the Chemical Properties of French Fries , Biological Forum â€“ An International Journal 7(2): 686-688 .'),(4020,'118','Isolation of Flavobacterium branchiophilum from Rainbow Trout (Oncorhyncus mykiss) with Bacterial Gill Disease in Tabriz, Iran','Mostafa Golabi, Seyyed Javid Mortazavi Tabrizi and Haedeh Mobaiyen','114 MOSTAFA GOLABI.pdf','',1,'Flavobacterium branchiophilum a causative agent of Bacterial Gill Disease (BGD) is a filamentous gram-negative bacteria which produce yellow round colonies in cytophaga agar medium. The outbreak of disease were reported from different part of world. In this study we examined 75 fish sample from farms with a recirculating aquaculture system (n=25), pools with a well water source farms (n=25) and farms with river water supplies (n=25) using cytophaga agar medium for colonies isolation and Gram staining, catalase, oxidase, TSI, SIM, urea, citrate Simon and fermentation tests for identification of colonies. The result shown that 25 samples were infected with Flavobacterium branchiophilum. From the 25 cases, 12 were related to the recirculating aquaculture system, 7 to the fish related the river water and 6 to the fish related to well water farms. There is no significance difference between different method of fish culturing was observed (P>0.05). By regarding to our result environmental, m','Flavobacterium branchiophilum, Rainbow trout, cytophaga agar medium, fish culture systems, Bacterial Gill Disease.','Flavobacterium branchiophilum a causative agent of Bacterial Gill Disease (BGD) is a filamentous gram-negative bacteria which produce yellow round colonies in cytophaga agar medium. The outbreak of disease were reported from different part of world. In this study we examined 75 fish sample from farms with a recirculating aquaculture system (n=25), pools with a well water source farms (n=25) and farms with river water supplies (n=25) using cytophaga agar medium for colonies isolation and Gram staining, catalase, oxidase, TSI, SIM, urea, citrate Simon and fermentation tests for identification of colonies. The result shown that 25 samples were infected with Flavobacterium branchiophilum. From the 25 cases, 12 were related to the recirculating aquaculture system, 7 to the fish related the river water and 6 to the fish related to well water farms. There is no significance difference between different method of fish culturing was observed (P>0.05). By regarding to our result environmental, m','With rapid population growth in developing countries, the need for good nutrition is taken into consideration more and more. Fish meat is considered an excellent choice of meat due to its high levels of omega-3 fatty acids, vitamins and minerals. Rainbow Trout (Oncorhyncus mykiss) meat is more palatable to the taste of people due to its high quality and delicious and tasty meat in Iran (Vosoghi and Mostagir, 2000). The increasing development of the fishing industry, intensive culture systems and attention to aquaculture for protein sources must be considered. However, the prevalence and emergence of epidemiologic diseases in the international fishery arena and emergence of various and unknown mortality make the identification of fish pathogens and pollutants necessary and inevitable. \r\nOne of the most important diseases that causes morbidity and mortality in the fish farms and decreases production is Bacterial Gill Disease (BGD). The causative agent of disease, Flavobacterium branchiop','Mostafa Golabi, Seyyed Javid Mortazavi Tabrizi and Haedeh Mobaiyen (2015). Isolation of Flavobacterium branchiophilum from Rainbow Trout (Oncorhyncus mykiss) with Bacterial Gill Disease in Tabriz, Iran , Biological Forum â€“ An International Journal 7(2):'),(4021,'118','Molecular detection of Cryptosporidium parvum in different water sources of Tehsil Takhte Nasrati, District Karak','Ihsan Ullah, Munawar Saleem Ahmad, Sultan Ayaz, Noor ul Akbar, Muhammad Naeem, Abdussalam, Muhammad Ismail, Asmat Ullah','115 NOOR UL AKBAR.pdf','',1,'C. parvum is an obligate parasite, causing human Cryptosporidiosis which is the most common waterborne diseases found throughout the world. Itâ€™s outbreaks are linked with contaminations of drinking water. The current study was designed to check out the prevalence of C. parvum (C. parvum) in different water sources of Tehsil Takhte Nasrati District Karak through PCR. Three hundred samples were collected from dam water, well water, pond water and spring water, including 75 samples from each source, which were filtered and followed by DNA extraction. The extracted DNA was amplified through PCR. The overall water-borne parasitic prevalence of C. parvum was 14.7% (11/75) positive. Among pond water 24% (18/75) samples were positive for C. parvum. Similarly, in well water 2.7% (2/75) samples were positive for C. parvum and in spring water 9.4% (7/75) samples were positive for C. parvum. The results showed that pond and dam water source was more contaminated with C. parvum as compared to oth','C. parvum, diarrhea, water, PCR, Pakistan','From the above study it was concluded that all the water sources in the given areas were contaminated due to C. parvum especially the pond water. The lack of authoritiesâ€™ attention to such problems, the unimportance of protecting drinking water sources from contamination and use of better water treatment to avoid infections in these areas was found in findings and conclusions.\r\nIt was recommended for the above study that the people should be aware about the C. parvum infection. Usage of Clean and boiled water is very useful to prevent the infection of this parasite. The competent authorities should give proper attention to protecting the different water sources from contamination.\r\n','The overall prevalence for C. parvum in different sources of water is 12.7% (38/300). The prevalence of C. parvum in pond water is 18/75 (24%), in dam water 11/75 (14.7%), similarly in well water sources 2/75 (2.7%) and in spring water 7/75 (9.4%) (Table 1). The overall prevalence of C. parvum in different areas of Tehsil Takthe Nasrati District Karak was 38/300 (12.7%), among them the prevalence of C. parvum in Takhte Nasrati city was 3/25 (12%) and in Khadda Banda was 1/25 (4%), in Siraj Khail Gerang 3/25 (12%), In Serki Nasrati 11/75 (14.7%), In Alwar Banda 0/25 (0%), In Zeera bBanda 1/25 (4%), in Shnawa Gudi Khel 1/25 ( 4%), in Mianki Banda 11/25 ( 44%), in Jehangeri 5/25 (20%), in Inzer Banda 2/25 (8%) (Table 1).\r\nAs compared to other area of Khyber Pakhtunkhwa (Ayaz et al., 2013; Alam et al., 2013; Ayaz et al., 2011) who conducted the similar study in the different area of the province our findings were slightly different. In Kohat the prevalence rate of C. parvum was 6.66% (10/1','Ihsan Ullah, Munawar Saleem Ahmad, Sultan Ayaz, Noor ul Akbar, Muhammad Naeem, Abdussalam, Muhammad Ismail, Asmat Ullah (2015). Molecular detection of Cryptosporidium parvum in different water sources of Tehsil Takhte Nasrati, District Karak , Biological'),(4022,'118','Quality Assessment of Drinking Water from the Different Colonies of Quetta City, Pakistan according to WHO Standards','Sara Shoaib Khan, Huma Tareen, Uzma Jabeen, Fariha Mengal, Zubia Masood, Sana Ahmed, Sherino Bibi, Musarat Riaz, Sabeena Rizwan, Fazila Mandokhail, Uzma Irum and Rabia Mengal\r\n','116 ZUBIA MSOOD.pdf','',1,'The present study was undertaken to examine the quality of tap water of Quetta city used for drinking purpose during the period of October 2014 to April 2015. Total 16 water samples were collected four from each four colonies (point1, point 2, point 3, and point 4) and analyzed for their physicochemical characteristics. The pH, Total dissolve solids (TDS), Electric conductivity (EC), Hardness and chemical oxygen demand (COD) have been determined. The experimental procedures were set according to the international drinking water standards set by WHO. The obtained results revealed that pH, TDS, hardness of all collected samples was within WHO limits, while the value of EC was high in all samples except two houses of point 4. Furthermore, the chemical oxygen demand (COD) value was also high in all samples of the present study. Thus, present study revealed that except the electrical conductivity and chemical oxygen demand,each selected parameters was fulfilling the permissible limit for dr','Tap water, WHO standards, Quetta city. ','In the present work, the analysis reports revealed that approximately all the water quality parameters lies within WHO guideline for drinking water thence may be suitable for drinking purpose, but few parameters such as, EC and COD were higher than permissible limits. Furthermore, some samples of point 4 were reported with lower EC value than WHO guideline for drinking water, however such value have not any serious impact on drinking water quality. Therefore, from the present results, it was concluded that all water samples were highly polluted specially by organic pollutants and pose a serious risk to consumers without treatment. \r\nAccording to WHO and USEPA recent news and reports, most tap, boreholes, streams and rivers waters in human use are not safe for drinking due to heavy industrial and environmental pollutions. Toxic chemical, heavy metal and bacteria in water can create serious illness while revealing them to long term health circumstance. Therefore, water quality should be ','Water plays an important role in sustenance of life and in support of human health, since 80% of diseases are spreading in developing countries because of the shortage of good quality water (Cheesbrough, 2006). The precaution of good quality water is a basic factor in guaranteeing public health, protection of the environment and sustainable development (Ranjini et al., 2010). The quality of drinking water is a prevailing environmental determinant of health (WHO, 2010).Good quality water is one of the basic important factors for human configuration and manâ€™s sustained existence depends very much on its accessibility (Lemikanra, 1999; FAO, 1997). Drinking water quality management has been a key pillar of primary prevention for last few decades, as it is being considered the basis for the prevention and control of various water borne diseases (WHO, 2010).A significant proportion of the worldâ€™s population use clean water for drinking, cooking, personal and home hygiene etc (WHO, 2004).','Sara Shoaib Khan, Huma Tareen, Uzma Jabeen, Fariha Mengal, Zubia Masood, Sana Ahmed, Sherino Bibi, Musarat Riaz, Sabeena Rizwan, Fazila Mandokhail, Uzma Irum and Rabia Mengal (2015). Quality Assessment of Drinking Water from the Different Colonies of Que'),(4023,'118','Appraising of drought tolerance relying on stability analysis indices in canola genotypes simultaneously, using selection index of ideal genotype (SIIG) technique: Introduction of new method','Hassan Zali, Omid Sofalian, Tahereh Hasanloo, Ali Asgharii \r\nand Seyed Mohammad Hoseini\r\n','117 HASSAN ZALI.pdf','',1,'The objective of this study was to develop a methodology to appraise best genotypes based on parametric and nonparametric stability methods using selection index of ideal genotype (SIIG) technique. This technique is one decision making method that is very simple to implement. According to this technique, the best genotype (stable genotype) would be the one that has the least of deviation from the positive ideal parameter and has the most of deviation from the negative ideal parameter. The positive ideal parameter is a parameter with maximizes the stability and minimizes the instability, whereas the negative ideal parameter is a parameter with maximizes the instability and minimizes the stability. In this study, we work out a practical example to demonstrate the SIIG technique for evaluate the yield stability of some genotypes of canola using parametric and nonparametric stability methods. Six canola genotypes were evaluated at five environments in two growing seasons (2011-2012). In th','Canola, Genotype Ã— environment interaction, Stability analysis, SIIG technique','The different parametric and nonparametric stability procedures can be proposed to select drought tolerant genotypes under different conditions (environments); therefore, in first stem to choice, these procedures could be useable for recognition of the best genotypes in different stress conditions. According to most nonparametric methods (SIIG method), Cooper and Lilian genotypes were stable in comparison with the other genotypes and also had the high mean yield; whiles Tassilo genotype was unstable genotype in contrast with the other genotypes. Correspond to most parametric procedures (SIIG method), SLM046 and Lilian genotypes were stable in comparison with the other genotypes whiles Tassilo genotype was unstable genotype in contrast with the other genotypes. The proposed measures (SIIG method) are comprehensive in the order in which amount of information increases. It is very effective in selection of ideal (best) genotypes using several different traits or indices simultaneously.\r\n ','Identification of high yielding and stable genotypes across variable environments has been a continued challenge to plant breeders worldwide (Alwala et al., 2010). Yield stability depends on plant characteristics, such as resistance or tolerance to environmental stress factors. By determining factors responsible for genotype Ã— environment interaction or stability/instability, breeders can improve cultivar stability. Resistance or tolerance to biotic or abiotic stress is essential for stable performance (Duvick, 1996). Sources of increased crop productivity include enhanced yield potential, improved yield stability, heterosis, modified plant types, gene pyramiding and exotic and transgenic germplasm (Khush, 1993).\r\nIt is important to identify the factors that are responsible for GEI. \r\nDifferent parametric stability methods have been investigated and proposed to study genotype Ã— environment interaction. Wricke (1962) moved a proposal using GEI for each genotype as a stability procedur','Hassan Zali, Omid Sofalian, Tahereh Hasanloo, Ali Asgharii \r\nand Seyed Mohammad Hoseini (2015). Appraising of drought tolerance relying on stability analysis indices in canola genotypes simultaneously, using selection index of ideal genotype (SIIG) techni'),(4024,'118','Some physical, mechanical and chemical properties of tomato fruit related to mechanical damage and bruising models','Hossein Ghaffari, Hamid Reza Ghassemzadeh, Morteza Sadeghi and Sadegh Alijani','118 HOSSEIN GHAFFARI.pdf','',1,'Impact phenomena is one of the important issues related to many of agricultural processes. It can be also considered as common reasons of mechanical damages exerted to the agricultural products occurring in some agricultural operations including; harvesting, handling and processing. Tomato quality is reduced by the bruising damage. There is some parameters cause mechanical damage which should be known consequently can be given useful recommendations. Bruising models may be able to help designers, producers and sellers to reduce such damages. Since machinery play a key role in mechanized operations, it is necessary to optimize the production chain. In order to obtain these aims, the bruising models are essential. To establish these models, the first step is determination the model parameters including: some physical, chemical and mechanical parameters. To gain some essential parameters, the impact was simulated by the manufactured pendulum. The tomatoes were impacted one, two and three ','Impact, bruising models, tomato, mechanical properties.','These data will have a potential to apply in harvest, transportation, classification, processing, sorting, packaging and other processes operations related to this variety. Also these findings can be used in the bruising models to predict the amounts of mechanical damage and development of harvest and postharvest chain machines. \r\nIn summary, it can be said that this variety of tomato with specific gravity larger that water, the hydrodynamic system could not be used in handling at processing plants. As mentioned before, the higher aspect ratio may be used in designing of handling systems, the rolling action should be considered. According to the obtained results it can be concluded that in designing machines in mechanized operations the impact energy level excreted to products must be diminished. \r\n','Tomato is commercially important vegetable throughout the world both for the fresh fruit market and food industries. It is grown in a wide range of climates in the field, and even under protection in plastic greenhouses and heated glass houses (Atherton and Rudich, 1986, Adedeji, Taiwo et al., 2006). Apart from its characteristics flavor and aroma, it is also a good source of vitamins (A and C) and minerals (Akanbi and Oludemi, 2004). Tomato is consumed in quite large quantities: directly as salads, cooked into soups or processed into juice, ketchup, whole- peeled tomato and paste (Adedeji, Taiwo et al., 2006). In some cases tomatoes are picked at a mature red stage when they are almost suitable for fresh market.\r\nMost mechanical injury of fruit is caused by mechanical impact that occurs during harvesting, handling and transportation. The fruit and vegetable industry suffers considerable economic losses due to bruising and post-harvest physical injuries are common in tomatoes even when','Hossein Ghaffari, Hamid Reza Ghassemzadeh, Morteza Sadeghi and Sadegh Alijani (2015), Some physical, mechanical and chemical properties of tomato fruit related to mechanical damage and bruising models , Biological Forum â€“ An International Journal 7(2): '),(4025,'118','Effect of row distance and variety on number of branch per plant, Plant height, Harvest Index and Seed yield in mungbean','Mehdi Zirak, Hamid Reza Ganjali and Ahmad Mehraban','119 MEHDI ZIRAK @ VAHED.pdf','',1,'Mung bean is a main short-duration grain legume crop with vast adaptability, low input requirements and the ability to improve the soil by fixing atmospheric nitrogen. Mung bean is nice suited to a large number of cropping systems and constitutes an important source of high quality protein in the cereal-based diets of very people. Plant density describes the number of plants per square meter, which in turn determines the area available to each individual plant. For maximum crops, plant density has a major influence on biomass, crop yield and economic profitability. Treatments contained Cultivar (Sistan cultivar, Gohar cultivar, Indian cultivar) as sub plot and row distance (20, 40, 60 and 80cm) as main plot. Analysis of variance showed that the effect of variety and row distance on all characteristic was significant.','Plant height, Harvest Index, Seed yield','Mung bean is a main short-duration grain legume crop with vast adaptability, low input requirements and the ability to improve the soil by fixing atmospheric nitrogen. Mung bean is nice suited to a large number of cropping systems and constitutes an important source of high quality protein in the cereal-based diets of very people. Plant density describes the number of plants per square meter, which in turn determines the area available to each individual plant. For maximum crops, plant density has a major influence on biomass, crop yield and economic profitability. Treatments contained Cultivar (Sistan cultivar, Gohar cultivar, Indian cultivar) as sub plot and row distance (20, 40, 60 and 80cm) as main plot. Analysis of variance showed that the effect of variety and row distance on all characteristic was significant. ','The main legumes in Asia are chickpea, pigeonpea (Cajanus cajan L), and Mungbean (Vigna radiate). Mungbean is a warm season crop requiring 90â€“120 days of freeze free conditions from planting to maturation. Enough rainfall is required from flowering to late pod fill in order to ensure nice yield. Yield of Mung beans is worsening with the rapid expansion of drought-stressed areas of the universe. Mung bean (Vigna radiate L.) is an main short-duration grain legume crop with wide adaptability, low input requirements and the ability to meliorate the soil by fixing atmospheric nitrogen (Sadeghipour, 2009). Mung bean is well appropriate to a large number of cropping systems and constitutes an important fount of high quality protein in the cereal-based diets of maximum people in Asia (Khattak et al. 2001). Mungbean (Vigna radiata L.) is an important seed legume and is grown on 225 thousand hectares with total production of 130 thousand tones and average production of 577 kg ha-1 in Pakistan ','Mehdi Zirak, Hamid Reza Ganjali and Ahmad Mehraban (2015). Effect of row distance and variety on number of branch per plant, Plant height, Harvest Index and Seed yield in mungbean , Biological Forum â€“ An International Journal 7(2): 719-721 .'),(4026,'118','Genetic analysis of some physiological traits in wheat by generations mean analysis under normal and water deficit conditions','Ali Akbar Asadi, Mostafa Valizadeh, Seyed Abolghasem Mohammadi and Manochehr Khodarahmi','120 ALI AKBAR ASADI.pdf','',1,'The seven wheat populations (Gasspard and DN11 as parents line and their F1, F2, F3, BC1 and BC2) were grown under normal and water deficit conditions at the farm for two years to study the genetic background of wheat in normal and water deficit conditions. Significant differences were found among the generation means for most of the physiological traits in two conditions which revealed the presence of genetic diversity between selected parents. Generation mean analysis indicated that the mode of gene effects implicated in the control of the majority of traits was depending upon water regime. This research results revealed the implication of epistasis in inheritance of physiological traits under normal and water deficit conditions. Additive effect was significant for most of the traits except of Fv, Fv/Fm and Fv/F0 and Fv/F0 in normal condition. Relative water content, Fm and Fv revealed great importance of additive gene effects in genetic control of physiological traits in two conditi','Generation mean analysis, heritability, water deficit, wheat','However, for initiation of an efficient breeding program other populations from different crosses should be included in the program. As it was mentioned earlier, over dominance was observed for some of characters at two conditions, suggesting the important role of dominance in controlling the traits under study. However, the estimates may be biased upwardly by the epistasis and/or linkage disequilibrium. Linkage disequilibrium could bias the estimation of degree of dominance, especially in the early segregating generations, so that an incomplete or complete dominance is estimated falsely as over dominance genetic effect. Linkage disequilibrium has been suggested as the possible cause of this apparent over dominance or pseudo-over dominance (Marzooghian et al. 2014).\r\nThis analysis concluded that some of the physiological traits controlled by additive type of gene action and the selection in early generations could be helpful for improvement and some of them controlled by dominance type','Biotic and abiotic stresses cause changes in normal physiological functions of all plants, including economically important cereals as well. All stresses reduce biosynthetic capacity of plants and might cause some destructive damages on the plants (Lichtenhaler 1996). Drought is a significant limiting factor for agricultural productivity and generally inhibits plant growth through reduced water absorption and nutrient uptake. Decreased water availability generally results in reduced growth and final yield in crop plants. Plant drought tolerance is a highly complex trait that involves multiple genetic, physiological and biochemical mechanisms (Baik and Ullrich 2008 and Erdei et al. 2002).\r\nWhile breeding programs in self pollination crops rely on selection for yield in advanced generations, alternatives to direct selection for yield have been adopted, as suggested by many researchers (Austin 1993). Indeed, the lake of identification of appropriate morphophysiological traits has been one','Ali Akbar Asadi, Mostafa Valizadeh, Seyed Abolghasem Mohammadi and Manochehr Khodarahmi (2015). Genetic analysis of some physiological traits in wheat by generations mean analysis under normal and water deficit conditions , Biological Forum â€“ An Intern'),(4027,'118','Evaluation Heavy Duty Tractor Performance Using CAN/Bus Technology','J. Tarighi, H. Ghasemzade, M. Bahrami, Sh. Abdollahpour, A. Mahmoudi A. Cultrera and E. Cavallo','121 JAVED TARIGHI.pdf','',1,'Tractors in Italy are still primarily utilized for tillage operations, which represents one of the most important factors in the budget of arable farms. In this study CAN/Bus interface was used for measuring and recording tractor fuel consumption of 220 HP heavy duty tractor. Tests were carried out during ripper plow operations, investigating the effect of plow depth on tractor fuel consumption. Results showed that the tractor with heavy ripper plow attached and operating at depths of 70, 150, 200, 300, 400 mm consumes respectively 15.040, 18.420, 26.550, 30.600, 30.800 L/h. Increasing the plow depth from 70 to 400 mm lead to fuel consumption increasing by 50%.The average fuel consumption is 30 L/h in the common plows depth of 300 and 400 mm which is close to results reported from other authors in previous investigations. Instantaneous fuel consumption during operation of ripper plow at five depths shows increase of instantaneous fuel consumption when working depth increases. During th','fuel consumption, heavy duty tractors, CAN/Bus','CAN/Bus technology is a useful way to control the tractor performance. In this study the variation of fuel consumption at different depths of ripper operations at two speeds of tractor was carried out.\r\nThe results of the investigations showed that the fuel consumption increased with increasing the plowing depths. The plowing speed was studied and results of the study indicated that the fuel consumption increases with increasing the speed.\r\nHowever, plowing depth, according to the study, results to be the most impactful factor in the determination of tractor fuel consumption during ripper plowing operations. The depths of plowing operation should be determined based on the root type, length and size of crop to be grown, while the availability of time, soil texture and implement width will determine the speed required to carry out the operation.\r\n','Increasing demands on the operational performance of vehicle engines lead to a massive implementation of electronic systems for their regulation and control. Increasing requirements of emission reduction, including performance and fuel savings need precise monitoring, which is provided only with the support of electronics. This trend can be seen also in agricultural machines and tractors in particular. Besides the engine, also other functional units such as transmission, hydraulic system and others are equipped with Electronic Control Units (ECU). In order to effectively control the various systems, it is necessary to ensure communication between the control units. ECU receives the information necessary for effective management from the internal sensors, in which the engine, gearbox and other parts of the vehicle are equipped. Data from the sensors are processed by the appropriate control unit and can be transmitted via the internal digital network CAN-Bus (Controller Area Network) of ','J. Tarighi, H. Ghasemzade, M. Bahrami, Sh. Abdollahpour, A. Mahmoudi A. Cultrera and E. Cavallo (2015). Evaluation Heavy Duty Tractor Performance Using CAN/Bus Technology , Biological Forum â€“ An International Journal 7(2): 734-738 . '),(4028,'118','Histoanatomical Study of Tongue in Maku strain mature goat','Ramin Jahangirfard, Gholamreza Najafi, Seyed Rashid Touni, Mohammad Divan and Sepideh Tavallae\r\n','122 RAMIN JAHANGIRFARD.pdf','',1,'Macroscopic and microscopic evaluation of Maku breeds goat\'s tongue tissue. Twelve adult male and female goats were selected and their tongue was studied. The samples were stained by Hematoxylin and Eosin method. Macroscopic findings essentially were the same as the other goats but male Maku breed goat has a snow-white tongue, and the female\'s tongue is darker that probably due to a lot of melanin pigments. In microscopic findings the cup-shaped papillae was along with taste groove and serous-glands. Filiform, mushroom-shaped, cone-shaped, and lens-shaped microscopy were observed using optical microscope. \r\nThe foliate papillae were not seen and almost a tick cuticle-layer around the papillae was observed. It must be noted that the intraepithelial taste buds were observed on top of mushroom-shaped papillae and on the side surface of the goblet papillae. The tongue is similar in both sexes in terms of size and structure.\r\n','Goat, lingual papillae, H & E staining','Macroscopic and microscopic evaluation of Maku breeds goat\'s tongue tissue. Twelve adult male and female goats were selected and their tongue was studied. The samples were stained by Hematoxylin and Eosin method. Macroscopic findings essentially were the same as the other goats but male Maku breed goat has a snow-white tongue, and the female\'s tongue is darker that probably due to a lot of melanin pigments. In microscopic findings the cup-shaped papillae was along with taste groove and serous-glands. Filiform, mushroom-shaped, cone-shaped, and lens-shaped microscopy were observed using optical microscope. \r\nThe foliate papillae were not seen and almost a tick cuticle-layer around the papillae was observed. It must be noted that the intraepithelial taste buds were observed on top of mushroom-shaped papillae and on the side surface of the goblet papillae. The tongue is similar in both sexes in terms of size and structure.\r\n ','Goat with the scientific name Capra Aegagrushircus is a domestic animal of the order of Artiodactyla, the family of Bovidae, the subfamily Caprinae and the genus of Capra that becomes mature sexually after one year-old. In the world there are more than 200 breeds of goat and 10 of which are very important in terms of productivity (milk, meat and wool). Maku-breed goats have black wool, but other colors have also been seen. Its products include cash mere and milk and its breeding place is West Azerbaijan (Khaldari, 2005). Tongue is the moving muscle that is covered by mucus and it is kept by the hyoid bone at the back side and by mandible in front and lower side. Some actions such as Reception, Mastication, and Deglutition are fulfilled by the tongue (Ebrahimi-saadatlou, 2011). Tongue has three parts: root, body, and apex, as well as two surfaces: Dorsal and Ventral surfaces. Lingual root attaches to the Soft palate by Frenulum linguae (Dyce, et al., 2009). It should be noted that the ','Ramin Jahangirfard, Gholamreza Najafi, Seyed Rashid Touni, Mohammad Divan and Sepideh Tavallae (2015). Histoanatomical Study of Tongue in Maku strain mature goat , Biological Forum â€“ An International Journal 7(2): 739-742 . '),(4029,'118','Modeling Output Energy and Green House Gas Emissions of Dairy Farms using Neural Networks','Homa Hosseinzadeh-Bandbafha, Dariush Safarzadeh and Ebrahim Ahmadi ','123 HOMA HOSSEINZADEH-BANDBAFHA.pdf','',1,'The aim of this study is to determine the amount of consumable energy and its index, the amount of greenhouse gas emissions resulting from energy consumption and choose the best model energy output and green house gas emissions using the model with neural network in dairy farms in Qazvin city of Iran. The results of this study showed; average energy input in dairy farms is 147659.442 MJ per head of cow. Instead this amount of energy input, 23642.25 MJ of energy been produced per head of cow that 91% of it has been related to the milk. An analysis of greenhouse gas emissions showed that for each lactation period, 5393.492kg of greenhouse gas emissions per head of a cow to be released in one year that methane from enteric fermentation has most roles in greenhouse gas emissions in dairy farms. In this study, multi-layer neural networks based on the back propagation algorithm and sigmoid learning function was used for training artificial neural network based on data collected from dairy fa','Energy, Emission, Artificial neural network, Dairy Farm','The mean energy input was calculated in dairy farms 147659.4424 MJ per head of cow that the feed intake with 92% of the maximum amount of energy consumption to be allocated that dairy farms with more than 150 head of cow have assigned to themselves the most amount of the energy consumption. The mean energy output from units was calculated 23642.25MJ per head of cow that 91 % related to milk. The results showed energy efficiency 0.16 and the special energy for produce one kilogram of milk obtained 18.45 MJ in dairy farms. Share of renewable energy has been 91.82 % and share of non- renewable energy has been 8.18 %. Analysis of greenhouse gas emissions showed that 5393.4919 kilograms of greenhouse gas were released into the atmosphere during the period one year that it is equal to 0.7 kg per kilogram of milk. The ANN model with (5-17-2) structure was the best model energy output and the GHG in dairy farms. In the best model, R2 was 0.7191 and 0.7909, RMSE was 1.5184 and 0.3634, M','As an agricultural product, milk is extracted from mammals during or soon after pregnancy and is used as food for humans. Worldwide, dairy farms produced about 730 million tons of milk in 2011 (FAO, 2012). Throughout the world, there are more than six billion consumers of milk and milk products) Hemme and Otte, 2010). Milk is one of the major sources of calcium and protein for human requirements from past until now. According to this fact and increasing urbanization, the global demand has increased for milk and this trend will have a greater growth in the coming decades. Considering to the high demand and lack of accountability traditional system of milk production to this demand, for increase the amount of performance is requiring the use of industrial equipment instead of using traditional methods and human force. More utilization of fossil fuels and electricity is for represents a direct dependence on the manufactured product into energy on factory farms. Therefore, the efficient ut','Homa Hosseinzadeh-Bandbafha, Dariush Safarzadeh and Ebrahim Ahmadi (2015). Modeling Output Energy and Green House Gas Emissions of Dairy Farms using Neural Networks , Biological Forum â€“ An International Journal 7(2): 743-752 .'),(4030,'118','Influence of nitrogen fertilizer, drought stress and super absorbent on chlorophyll a, chlorophyll b and Carotenoid of Trachyspermum ammi','Ebrahim Sabbagh, Jahanfar Daneshian, Saeed Sayf Zadeh, \r\nSeyed Kazem Sabbagh Sharaf Abadi and Hamid Reza Fanaei\r\n','124 EBRAHIM SABBAGH.pdf','',1,'Ajwain is highly esteemed as a therapeutic agent for flatulence, flatulent colic, atonic dyspepsia, diarrhoea - in short, as a digestive aid and as well as an antiseptic. Oil of desi ajwain contains thymol and its particular gravity and smell resembles the volatile oil. Water is one of the main and essential abiotic components that regulate plant growth and development and its shortage alters the morphological, physiological and biochemical properties of plants. In agriculture Superabsorbent polymers are used as a soil additive, as reservoir of nutrients, and as water superabsorbent in the soil. Biodegradation rate of super absorbent polymers in soil depends on the dimensions of soil particle and quantity of organic matter. The field experiment was laid out in split split plot design with factorial design with three replications. Analysis of variance showed that the effect of water stress, superabsorbent and fertilizer on all characteristics was significant. ','Chlorophyll a, Chlorophyll b, Carotenoid','Ajwain is highly esteemed as a therapeutic agent for flatulence, flatulent colic, atonic dyspepsia, diarrhoea - in short, as a digestive aid and as well as an antiseptic. Oil of desi ajwain contains thymol and its particular gravity and smell resembles the volatile oil. Water is one of the main and essential abiotic components that regulate plant growth and development and its shortage alters the morphological, physiological and biochemical properties of plants. In agriculture Superabsorbent polymers are used as a soil additive, as reservoir of nutrients, and as water superabsorbent in the soil. Biodegradation rate of super absorbent polymers in soil depends on the dimensions of soil particle and quantity of organic matter. The field experiment was laid out in split split plot design with factorial design with three replications. Analysis of variance showed that the effect of water stress, superabsorbent and fertilizer on all characteristics was significant. ','Desi ajwain (Trachyspermum ammi L.) is an aromatic herb and belongs to family Apiaceae (Umbelliferae). It originated in the Eastern Mediterranean region, probably in Egypt, and came to India with the Greeks, who were called Yavanas by South Indians (Boskabady & Shaikhi, 2000). The name ajwain originated from the Sanskrit words yavanaka or ajomoda. Ajwain is very widely cultivated in black soil, particularly along the riverbanks in Egypt and many other countries like India, Iran and Afghanistan (Kiritikar & Basu, 1999; Boskabady & Shaikhi, 2000). Ajwain is highly esteemed as a remedial agent for flatulence, flatulent colic, atonic dyspepsia, diarrhoea - in short, as a digestive aid and also as an antiseptic (Bentely & Trimen, 1999; Kiritikar & Basu, 1999; Cragg & Newman, 2005). Oil of desi ajwain contains thymol and its specific gravity and odour resembles the volatile oil. The oil contains a liquid hydrocarbon, 1-methyl-4-isopropylbenzol, and another hydrocarbon which is isomeric with ','Ebrahim Sabbagh, Jahanfar Daneshian, Saeed Sayf Zadeh, \r\nSeyed Kazem Sabbagh Sharaf Abadi and Hamid Reza Fanaei (2015). Influence of nitrogen fertilizer, drought stress and super absorbent on chlorophyll a, chlorophyll b and Carotenoid of Trachyspermum a'),(4031,'118','The study of Lico contamination by Haemoproteus spp in Sistan region','Seyed Hadi Hashemi, Dariush Sargazi and Davod Anvari','125 SEYED HADI HASHEMI.pdf','',1,'Lico with Scientific name Turdoides Caudatus and English name Common Babbler is one of the wild life birds that live in southeast of Iran, in Sistan region. Parasitic pollutions are one of the main factors in decrease of growth and emerge of mortality in birds. In this study for the purpose of determining amount of Lico contamination to haemoproteus in summer 2014, we prepared blood smears from 50 licos and after staining with Gimsa solution, they examined with optical microscope. The results showed that 14 percent of licos were afflicted by Haemoproteus. Statistical analysis showed that significant differences exist between two genders of male and female in affliction by this parasite. Control of insects that carrying infection can have an important role in control of this disease in wild life.','Haemoproteus spp, Lico, Blood parasite, Sistan','Lico with Scientific name Turdoides Caudatus and English name Common Babbler is one of the wild life birds that live in southeast of Iran, in Sistan region. Parasitic pollutions are one of the main factors in decrease of growth and emerge of mortality in birds. In this study for the purpose of determining amount of Lico contamination to haemoproteus in summer 2014, we prepared blood smears from 50 licos and after staining with Gimsa solution, they examined with optical microscope. The results showed that 14 percent of licos were afflicted by Haemoproteus. Statistical analysis showed that significant differences exist between two genders of male and female in affliction by this parasite. Control of insects that carrying infection can have an important role in control of this disease in wild life.','Common Babblers are one of the wildlife birds that have wide ranges. According to available information, their numbers still have not reached the threshold of vulnerability. These birds have extended in tropical regions such as Iraq, Iran, Afghanistan, Pakistan and India. The bird can be found in arid and arable areas with shrubs and scattered trees in South East Iran (Mosavi et al., 2011). Viral, bacterial and parasitic diseases are always threatening the bird population wildlife. Protozoan diseases are usually seen in poultry and the other birds (Saif et al., 2008). Haemoproteus species contains a lot of protozoan intracellular parasites and has extended in the birds all around the world (Graczvk et al., 1994). This parasite is the most common blood parasite in birds and has been reported 67% of the bird species (Cains and Bennet, 1992). Haemoproteus infection often occurs in warm climate areas which there are carriers and host birds. Disease transmission occurs by biting Diptera of ','Seyed Hadi Hashemi, Dariush Sargazi and Davod Anvariv (2015). The study of Lico contamination by Haemoproteus spp in Sistan region , Biological Forum â€“ An International Journal 7(2): 757-758 .'),(4032,'118','Soil and Topographic Attributes Affecting Rainfed Wheat Yield in a Semi-arid region of Iran','Asma Shabani and Alireza Karimi','126 ASMA SHABANI.pdf','',1,'The effects of topography and soil properties, as the most important parameters influencing crop production, need to be identified and considered in rainfed agricultural management. The objective of this research was to investigate the impact of topographic and soil properties on rainfed wheat yield, comparing Regression and Artificial Neural Networks methods, in Sisab region, North Khorasan province, Iran. Surface soil samples and wheat yield data were taken from 97 plots of 1Ã—1 meter in a region with about 800 hectares area, and employing Digital Elevation Model and soil physical and chemical properties. Primary and secondary topographic attributes were also measured. The results showed that in comparison to MLR, ANN methods could provide better prediction of yield components. The multilayer perceptron model with 16-20-1 layout predicted 92% of the variance of wheat yield, while MLR models could explain about 40-43%. Based on the results of the sensitivity analysis of ANN models, g','Artificial neural network, digital elevation model, modelling, sensitivity analysis, topographic properties.','Information on spatial variability in wheat yield is beneficial for developing site-specific management practices. This study was conducted to compare the ability of linear and nonlinear functions in order to predict wheat yield components from soil and topographic properties in Sisab region, Iran. The obtained results showed that the ANN models were more powerful tools than MLR to establish the relationships between the soil and topographic properties and wheat yield components. Sensitivity analysis for ANN models indicated that gravel percentage, SOM, and calcium carbonate from soil characteristics and surface curvature, TWI and elevation from topographic properties are the most important parameters affecting yield components. In general, yield variability have been influenced by five parameters including elevation, curvature, TWI, SOM and CCE; moreover, sensitivity analysis coefficients represented surface curvature as the main parameter for explaining yield variability in the study','Determination of such factors affecting yield variations is crucial for improving agricultural productivity. On a local scale, soil and topographic properties are the main factors for maintaining a successful rainfed agriculture. Topography, one of the major soil forming factors, controls various soil properties (Florinsky et al, 2002). Variations in soil properties such as water redistribution, soil temperature, soil organic matter (SOM), nutrients availability and soil texture influence crop growth, especially in hilly areas (Dinaburga et al, 2010). A thorough understanding of the effects of soil properties on the performance of the strategic cereal crops in the semi-arid and arid regions provides valuable information for enhancing agricultural productivity (Ayoubi et al, 2009). \r\nModelling is a technique applied for better understanding of the relationships between soil, climate, and topographic properties and quality and quantity of agricultural products. It is also a reliable proc','Asma Shabani and Alireza Karimi (2015). Soil and Topographic Attributes Affecting Rainfed Wheat Yield in a Semi-arid region of Iran , Biological Forum â€“ An International Journal 7(2): 759-767 . '),(4033,'118','An Investigation on some New Records of Rotifer species occurs in Manchar Lake of Province Sindh, Pakistan','Shagufta Saddozai, Wali Muhammad Achakzai, Zubia Masood, Asmatullah Kakar, Anila Naz Somroo and Wazir Ali Baloch\r\n','127 ZUBIA MASOOD An Investigation on some New Records.pdf','',1,'A study was conducted to observe the occurrence and diversity of rotifer species found in the Manchar lake of Sindh, Pakistan. A total of 85 species of rotifers were recorded from six selected sampling sites i.e., Danister, Gulshah Pir, Mudiput, Central point Aroni, Garkno and Jarang at Manchar lake. The obtained results revealed that among these 85 reported species of rotifers from Manchar Lake, 25 species were those that are first newly recoded in Pakistan. Thus, it had been concluded that Manchar Lake contain rich diversity of rotifer species as compare to any other Lake in Pakistan. In additions, the frequency of the occurrence of all these rotifer species was also found to be varied among six different selected stations of Manchar Lake. The results of present study also revealed that highest density of rotifers was recorded during the summer season, while their low density was noted during the winter season. Thus, our present work will provides useful information\'s regarding to t','Rotifers, species diversity, Manchar lakes.','A study was conducted to observe the occurrence and diversity of rotifer species found in the Manchar lake of Sindh, Pakistan. A total of 85 species of rotifers were recorded from six selected sampling sites i.e., Danister, Gulshah Pir, Mudiput, Central point Aroni, Garkno and Jarang at Manchar lake. The obtained results revealed that among these 85 reported species of rotifers from Manchar Lake, 25 species were those that are first newly recoded in Pakistan. Thus, it had been concluded that Manchar Lake contain rich diversity of rotifer species as compare to any other Lake in Pakistan. In additions, the frequency of the occurrence of all these rotifer species was also found to be varied among six different selected stations of Manchar Lake. The results of present study also revealed that highest density of rotifers was recorded during the summer season, while their low density was noted during the winter season. Thus, our present work will provides useful information\'s regarding to t','Rotifers (wheel animals) are mainly an important group of the limnetic and littoral micro-invertebrates. Some are colonial, while others are sessile, living inside tubes or gelatinous holdfasts that are attached to a substrate (Sharma, 2009; Wallace and Snell, 2010). Their size ranged from 3 to 100 Âµm depending on aquatic medium and availability of food. These interesting organisms symbolize as one of the most primitive groups of invertebrates (Sladecek, 1983). \r\nFreshwaters are the main source of rotifers and are supposed to be their original habitat because more than 95% rotifers are found in freshwater habitats. The rotifers are present in every inland aquatic biotope clean or contaminated. Wallace and Snell (2010) reported that rotifers can survive in both lentic and lotic environments, like Lakes, rivers and streams. An increase in rotifer population depends upon the increase of eutrophication in the lake (Park and Marshall, 2000). The rotifers are considered opportunistic in fee','Shagufta Saddozai, Wali Muhammad Achakzai, Zubia Masood, Asmatullah Kakar, Anila Naz Somroo and Wazir Ali Baloch (2015). An Investigation on some New Records of Rotifer species occurs in Manchar Lake of Province Sindh, Pakistan , Biological Forum â€“ An '),(4034,'118','The effect of yield and yield components of durum wheat varieties and lines in the Kabootarabad area','Meysam Farzi, Seyyed Mohammad Javad Mirhadi and Akbar Ghandi','128 MEYSAM FARZI@ ISI.pdf','',1,'In order to investigate the different characteristics of durum wheat, 16 lines with 2 control cultivars (Parsi and Dena) in the farming year 2013-2014 in a randomized complete block design with three replications at the Agricultural Research Station of Kabootarabad were evaluated for a one year. The variance analysis results showed that the seed thousand weight between the different lines at five percent probable has a significant difference that presents the existence of genetic variation between the lines and cultivars to the mentioned traits. Based on the mean comparison results, line 8 has the most seed thousand weight and line 7 and 11 has the lowest amount of it. Also the most plant height is related to the line 6 and the lowest amount of it is related to the line 4.','Durum wheat, seed yield, yield components, genetic variation','In order to investigate the different characteristics of durum wheat, 16 lines with 2 control cultivars (Parsi and Dena) in the farming year 2013-2014 in a randomized complete block design with three replications at the Agricultural Research Station of Kabootarabad were evaluated for a one year. The variance analysis results showed that the seed thousand weight between the different lines at five percent probable has a significant difference that presents the existence of genetic variation between the lines and cultivars to the mentioned traits. Based on the mean comparison results, line 8 has the most seed thousand weight and line 7 and 11 has the lowest amount of it. Also the most plant height is related to the line 6 and the lowest amount of it is related to the line 4. ','Wheat is the most important food crops in Iran and the world and about 20 percent of the world\'s food is supplied by it. The major area under wheat cultivation in the world is consisted by common wheat or bread wheat so that nearly 95 percent of total global production is allocated to itself and the remaining five percent is dedicated to the durum wheat in order to produce pasta production (Oleson, 1994). This wheat is extraordinary from the physiological characteristics that is consistent this wheat to product in a wide range of climatic environments and chemical and physical characteristics of gluten, which makes seed wheat suitable for many different food products diverse (Arzani, 2004). Iran as one of the origins of durum wheat, which has a wide diversity of desirable characteristics and also relatively the existence of favorable climatic conditions for growing this crop in many parts of it and the growing need of it in the country, is likely to produce a successful product in the','Meysam Farzi, Seyyed Mohammad Javad Mirhadi and Akbar Ghandi (2015).The effect of yield and yield components of durum wheat varieties and lines in the Kabootarabad area , Biological Forum â€“ An International Journal 7(2): 773-778 .'),(4035,'118','Ferric Nano particles as a material for biological applications; structural properties and biocompatibility','Arezoo Neshat and Haleh Kangarlou','130 HALEH KANGARLOU.pdf','',1,'Ferric Nanoparticles produced by chemical method in order to further its use in biological applications. Aqueous solution contains Iron chloride and thioacetamide and heated for 90minutes as deposition time. Aqueous solution temperature for synthesis was about 75ÂºCtemperature and kept at 10pH. Ferric Nanoparticles achieved from evaporated Aqueous solution in special oven at 250ÂºC temperature. X-ray diffraction (XRD), Scanning electron microscopy (SEM), Atomic Force Microscopy (AFM) analysis proved the production of Ferric Nanoparticles. Nano particles have poly crystalline structure with bones like shapes by fraction of voids between them.','Ferric, Nano particles, biological applications, Chemical bath deposition ','Ferric Nanoparticles by the purpose of applying in medical physics and investigation about their effect on mental health, were produced by chemical method. \r\n\r\n\r\nAqueous solution contains Iron chloride and thioacetamide and heated for 90 minutes as deposition time. Aqueous solution temperature for synthesis was about 75ÂºC temperature and kept at 10pH. Ferric Nanoparticles achieved from evaporated Aqueous solution in special oven at 250ÂºC temperature. \r\n \r\n Neshat and Kangarlou 791\r\n \r\nX-ray diffraction (XRD), Scanning electron microscopy (SEM), Atomic Force Microscopy (AFM) analysis proved the production of Ferric Nanoparticles. Nano particles have poly crystalline structure with bones like shapes by fraction of voids between them. Ferric Nanoparticles are one of the important components in medical and biological applications.\r\n','Iron is an essential element for correct brain function. Iron deficiency changes some behaviors such as anxiety and nociception. Recently, Nano-iron, Ferric or ferro oxide (Nano-Fe2O3 or Fe3O4), are used in various applications in agriculture, industry and medicine, but their effects on the heath and behavior is not clear. In this study, the effects of Fe2O3 Nanoparticles on animal models of anxiety and nociception were investigated (Leung and Kaplan 2009, Spinelli, 2004, Bloch et al.,). Also, Iron oxide Nanoparticles, have been approved by both the US Food and Drug Administrationand the European Medicines Agency for IV medical use. Iron may cause conjunctivitis, choroiditis, and retinitis if it contacts and remains in the tissues. Chronic inhalation of excessive concentrations of iron oxide fumes or dusts may result in development of a benign pneumoconiosis, called sideros is, which is observable as an x-ray change. FexOy (x=1-3 and y= 0-4) Nanoparticles can produce by several methods','Arezoo Neshat and Haleh Kangarlou (2015). Ferric Nano particles as a material for biological applications; structural properties and biocompatibility , Biological Forum â€“ An International Journal 7(2): 789-791 . '),(4036,'118','Pervasiveness of tick borne disease, Babesiosis in Quetta City of Province Balochistan, Pakistan','Nosheen Rafique, Asmatullah Kakar, Asim Iqbal, Kashif Kamran, Wajeeha Razzaq and Zubia Masood\r\n','131 ZUBIA MASOOD Pervasiveness of tick borne disease, Babesiosis in Quetta City.pdf','',1,'Babesiosis is an economically important and chief arthropod-borne disease, which is commonly known as cattle fever or tick fever abundantly found throughout the world. In the present study, a total of 110 cattle\'s includes 82 females (cows) and 28 males (bulls) were analyzed from different farm houses of Quetta city to check the infestation of ticks as well as suffer from tick born disease that is babesiosis. According to the obtained results of the present study, cows were found to be more susceptible to severe babesiosis because out of their total observed samples (n=82), 54.8% were found to be infested. Furthermore, among these infested cows, 31.1%were suffering from severe babesiosis, while 42.2% were suffered from mild babesiosis. While in contrast, out of 28 observed bull samples, 42.8% were found to be infested. Out of these infested bulls, 33.3% were suffered from severe babesiosis, while the remaining 33.3% were suffering from mild babesiosis.','Prevalence\'s, Cattle\'s, tick fever, Babesiosis, ','Babesiosis is an economically important and chief arthropod-borne disease, which is commonly known as cattle fever or tick fever abundantly found throughout the world. In the present study, a total of 110 cattle\'s includes 82 females (cows) and 28 males (bulls) were analyzed from different farm houses of Quetta city to check the infestation of ticks as well as suffer from tick born disease that is babesiosis. According to the obtained results of the present study, cows were found to be more susceptible to severe babesiosis because out of their total observed samples (n=82), 54.8% were found to be infested. Furthermore, among these infested cows, 31.1%were suffering from severe babesiosis, while 42.2% were suffered from mild babesiosis. While in contrast, out of 28 observed bull samples, 42.8% were found to be infested. Out of these infested bulls, 33.3% were suffered from severe babesiosis, while the remaining 33.3% were suffering from mild babesiosis. ','Health condition of livestock and their production have burnt by ectoparasites (Khan et al., 2013). In tropical and subtropical countries, ticks are thriftily the most important pests of cattle and other household species. Infestation of ticks lowers the reduction of animals as well as causes the transmission of protozoan disease (Gray and Potgieter, 1982). Disease causes by ticks are confining to Pakistan, Bangladesh and India because their climatic conditions are appropriate for the growth and development of ticks (Gosh et al., 2007).\r\nTicks are the vectors of large number of pathogenic microorganisms including protozoan\'s (babesiosis, theileriosis), rickettsiae (anaplasmosis, ehrlichiosis, typhus). Babesiosis is world-wide spread disease that is distressing many species of mammals and predominantly cattle and man. Babesiosis was the initial disease that was spread to mammals by the arthropod that was implicated in the twentieth century. This disease was firstly eradicated from the','Nosheen Rafique, Asmatullah Kakar, Asim Iqbal, Kashif Kamran, Wajeeha Razzaq and Zubia Masood (2015). Pervasiveness of tick borne disease, Babesiosis in Quetta City of Province Balochistan, Pakistan , Biological Forum â€“ An International Journal 7(2): 7'),(4037,'118','The Effect of Plant Density on Yield and Yield Components on the Soybean Late Maturing Genotypes in the North of Khozestan','Farah Poor Keyvan, Mahmoud Touhidie and Gholam Reza Ghodratie','132 FARAH POOR KEYVAN.pdf','',1,'In order to study the reaction of new genotypes obtained from generations of segregation, to soybean plant density changes in weather conditions in the north of Khuzestan, the research was conducted in research center in Safiabad, Dezful in summer 2014. Four soybean genotypes including G3=SG10-90064, G2=MIGMAT, G1=SG4-90064, Salnd: G4 (control test) in four different densities D4=65, D3=50, D2=35, D1=20, G1=SG4-90064, G2=MIGMAT, G3=SG10-90064, plantper square meter (in a completely factorial randomized block design)with threereplicationswere investigated.Analysis of variance showed that grain yield in treatment between the genotypes and plant density and interaction was significant at the probability of error of one percent. The comparison of the average statistical data showed that the highest and lowest of grain yieldwas related with genotypes of G3 with 4117 and G1 with 2992 kg per hectare respectively. In the interaction between genotype and density, G3D3 with 4733 kilograms per h','soybean, variety, density, Dezful','Every soybean genotype that might have the highest light absorption in the most suitable plant density, might have higher dry matter and therefore have a greater yield. In the study, genotype (G3: SG10-90064) with 50 plants per square meter and grain yield of 4733 kg per hectarehad thehighest yield. ','Soybean (Glycine max (L) Merrill) is one of the oldest cultivated plants and one of the major sources of oil and plant protein (Khajehpour, 2006). In appropriate crop circumstances, increased plant density to achieve maximum performance is essential. By reducing the spacing between rows and increasing plant density on soybean, grainyield is maximized (Shafshak et al., 1989). It was recommended that soybeans were sown in narrow in rows 40 cm and a significant increase in performance compared to the row of 75 cm, was observed respectively (Egli, 1988). Increased grain yieldin a more narrow line can be due to increased exposure, especially during the critical grain size (Andrade et al., 2002). Maximum performance is achieved when firstlyplant communities in the growth phase have the maximum leaf area, and secondly, the equal culture conditions are existed to minimize competition between plants (Narne et al., 2002). Rachana and Viswanathan evaluated 24 soybean genotypes; the results showe','Farah Poor Keyvan, Mahmoud Touhidie and Gholam Reza Ghodratie (2015). The Effect of Plant Density on Yield and Yield Components on the Soybean Late Maturing Genotypes in the North of Khozestan , Biological Forum â€“ An International Journal 7(2): 795-798'),(4038,'118','Indium Oxide as a material for biological applications; structural properties and biocompatibility','Kiarash Pooryusef and Haleh Kangarlou','133 HALEH KANGARLOU.pdf','',1,'In2O3 Nnao particles produced by chemical method in order to further its use in biological applications. Aqueous solution contains Indium chloride and NH3 and heated for 40 minutes as deposition time. Aqueous solution temperature for synthesis was about 70ÂºC temperature and kept at 2.5 pH. Indium Oxide Nano particles achieved from evaporated aqueous solution in special oven at 250ÂºC temperature. X-ray diffraction (XRD), Scanning electron microscopy (SEM), Atomic Force microscopy (AFM) proved the production of Indium Oxide Nano particles. Nano particles have semi amorphous structures, round shapes and smooth roughness. ','Indium Oxide; chemical bath deposition; structural properties; XRD; SEM; AFM','In2O3 Nnao particles produced by chemical method in order to further its use in biological applications. Aqueous solution contains Indium chloride and NH3 and heated for 40minutes as deposition time. Aqueous solution temperature for synthesis was about 70ÂºC temperature and kept at 2.5 pH.\r\nIndium Oxide Nano particles achieved from evaporated aqueous solution in special oven at 250ÂºC temperature. X-ray diffraction (XRD), Scanning electron microscopy (SEM), Atomic Force microscopy (AFM) proved the production of Indium Oxide Nano particles. Nano particles have semi amorphous structures. In agreement with XRD results, in morphology of Nano particles canonical grains are clearly shown. From SEM result fractal structures grown that looks like ferns and broccoli (and its stalks) and bon like structures. Indium Oxide Nanoparticles do not have the chronic toxicity of salts of heavy metals. This can be useful to biological applications.\r\n','Indium components are not known to have any metabolic role in any organism. In a similar way to aluminum salts, indium (III) ions can be toxic to the kidney when given by injection, but oral indium compounds do not have the chronic toxicity of salts of heavy metals, probably due to poor absorption in basic conditions. Radioactive indium (in very small amounts on a chemical basis) is used in nuclear medicine tests, as a radiotracer to follow the movement of labeled proteins and white blood cells in the body. In2O3 is an n-type semiconductor with a wide band gap (3.5-3.7 eV) that shows the unusual combination of good optical transparency in the visible region and high electrical conductivity. Indium oxide (In2O3) has been investigated extensively for its semiconducting properties. Indium oxide thin films show unique shape and size dependent properties. In2O3 thin films have been formed by number of different deposition techniques which include PLD (Chen et al., 2008), direct current (DC)','Kiarash Pooryusef and Haleh Kangarlou (2015). Indium Oxide as a material for biological applications; structural properties and biocompatibility , Biological Forum â€“ An International Journal 7(2): 799-801 .'),(4039,'118','A New Method for Study of Shoot Apices using Epi-illumination Light Microscopy','Javid Emaratpardaz','134 JAVID EMARAT PARDAZ.pdf','',1,'For study of plant organogenesis, epi-illumination light microscopy (ELM) is considered as an efficient procedure due to its simplicity and low cost feature. In this study, the advantage of digital ELM use in conjunction with new staining method was demonstrated for study of shoot apex ontogeny in Tanasetum baltisma. Anilline blue stained materials revealed good image contrast and quality in compare to previous methods. On the other hands, the new staining method in this study was very fast and simple. Using digital ELM, we were capable to study in detail of the first stages of organ initiation as well as the developmental patterns of shoot apices. Upon our findings, we suggest implementation of the digital ELM as a rapid and low cost technique for plant science investigations. ','Organogenesis, floral initiation, epi-illumination, SEM, aniline blue, depth-of-focus','For study of plant organogenesis, epi-illumination light microscopy (ELM) is considered as an efficient procedure due to its simplicity and low cost feature. In this study, the advantage of digital ELM use in conjunction with new staining method was demonstrated for study of shoot apex ontogeny in Tanasetum baltisma. Anilline blue stained materials revealed good image contrast and quality in compare to previous methods. On the other hands, the new staining method in this study was very fast and simple. Using digital ELM, we were capable to study in detail of the first stages of organ initiation as well as the developmental patterns of shoot apices. Upon our findings, we suggest implementation of the digital ELM as a rapid and low cost technique for plant science investigations. ','Plant development involves morphological and physiological pathways which in first steps is revealed as changes in the shoot apex form and geometry (Albrechtova et al., 2004; Jaeger et al., 2006; Kwiatkowska, 2006). Study of developmental patterns in the course of apex activity has an economical and scientific importance in respect to botanical and agricultural investigations (Dennis et al., 2006; Esumi et al., 2007; Teeri et al., 2006). Clearly, such studies offer leading insights into the mechanisms of manipulating the flowering and fruit loading (Teeri et al., 2006; Tromp, 2000; Valiente and Albrigo, 2004). Further, manipulation of plant growth and development depends on our knowledge about the process of organogenesis in the apex and the time of organ formation (Oukabli et al., 2003; Reig et al., 2006; Schmidt et al., 2006). For this purpose, application of appropriate microscopic techniques would be essential at which any change in apex becomes possible (Foster et al., 2003; Kuro','Javid Emaratpardaz (2015) A New Method for Study of Shoot Apices using Epi-illumination Light Microscopy , Biological Forum â€“ An International Journal 7(2): 802-805 . '),(4040,'118','Mediating Effects of Self-Efficacy in the Transtheoretical Model among Hospital Male staff of Ardebil University of Medical Sciences in 2014','Narimani Sajjad, Farmanbar Rabiollah, Kazemnejad Ehsan and Hooshmandi Asgar','135 MOHSEN AZIZI.pdf','',1,'Health behaviors such as tobacco use account for approximately 50% of all premature mortality. So to prevent burden of disease due to excessive use of tobacco, we have to use of health education models. One of the most effective models is transtheoretical model. This study examined the moderating and mediating effects of self-efficacy on the relationships between predicting variables and the outcome variable. Cross-sectional data were collected from 200 smokers at four hospitals in Ardebil city in 2014. The instruments included decisional balance scale, self-efficacy scale, processes of change scale and stages of change. Ordinal regression revealed that self-efficacy was a predictor of stage of change (Î²=-0.54, P=0.001) and mediated the relationships of decisional balance with stage of change (Î²=-0.39, P=0.001) and relationship of experimental process of change and stage of change (Î²=0.053, P=0.001). pros of smoking cessation (Î²=-0.62) and self-efficacy were the strongest predict','Self-Efficacy, Smoke Cessation, Transtheoretical Model.','The study results revealed that self-efficacy was a predictor of stage of change (Î² =-0.54, P=0.001) and mediated the relationships of decisional balance with stage of change (Î² =-0.39, P=0.001) and relationship of experimental process of change and stage of change (Î²=0.053, P=0.001).pros of smoking cessation(Î² =-0.62) and self-efficacy were the strongest predictor of stage of change respectively. Future studies should explore the effect of smoke ceccation interventions based on Transtheoretical model.','Cigarette smoking and exposure to secondhand smoke kill an estimated 50,000 people in the Islamic republic of Iran each year. For every smoker who dies from a smoking-attributable disease, another 20 persons live with a serious smoking-related disease. Cigarettes will cost $2.5 billion annually in medical in Iran and lost productivity each year. Despite progress in reducing tobacco use, 11.09 percent of 15 to 64 years population in iran still smoke (Mahmood et al., 2013). These statistics reflect a legacy of millions of lives that prematurely lost from tobacco use, reflecting a tragic public health history. Over the past two decades, the public health and medical communities have made substantial progress in combating cigarette smoking. However, despite overall progress, the burden of tobacco-related illness has clearly shifted toward blue-collar and service sector workers, whose cigarette smoking and exposure to environmental tobacco smoke, as well as to many other occupational healt','Narimani Sajjad, Farmanbar Rabiollah, Kazemnejad Ehsan and Hooshmandi Asgar (2015). Mediating Effects of Self-Efficacy in the Transtheoretical Model among Hospital Male staff of Ardebil University of Medical Sciences in 2014 , Biological Forum â€“ An Inte'),(4041,'118','The interaction effect of nitrogen and vermicompost on chickpea yield and yield components in Hamedan region','Ali Mohammadi Amin and Mohammad Sharif Moghadasi','136 ALI MOHAMMADI AMIN.pdf','',1,'In order to investigate the effect of nitrogen and vermicompost on chickpea yield and yield components in Hamedan region, an experiment as a factorial form in the randomized complete block design in 2014 was conducted. The first factor nitrogen at three levels was included 0, 90and 120kg.ha-1 and the second factor vermicompost at two levels was included lack of control and 15ton.ha-1. Nitrogen and vermicompostat one percent probable was affected all studied characteristic, as well as the interaction effect of nitrogen concentration with vermicompost at five percent probable has a significant effect on the seed number in plant, seed hundred weight and seed yield, but no significant effect on plant height, number of pods per plant and biological yield was observed. According to research results, 90 and120 kg nitrogen per ha had the most positive effect on the measured characteristics. Also the using of vermicompost was increased the yield and yield components of chickpea.','Chickpea, nitrogen, vermicompost, seed yield.','In order to investigate the effect of nitrogen and vermicompost on chickpea yield and yield components in Hamedan region, an experiment as a factorial form in the randomized complete block design in 2014 was conducted. The first factor nitrogen at three levels was included 0, 90and 120kg.ha-1 and the second factor vermicompost at two levels was included lack of control and 15ton.ha-1. Nitrogen and vermicompostat one percent probable was affected all studied characteristic, as well as the interaction effect of nitrogen concentration with vermicompost at five percent probable has a significant effect on the seed number in plant, seed hundred weight and seed yield, but no significant effect on plant height, number of pods per plant and biological yield was observed. According to research results, 90 and120 kg nitrogen per ha had the most positive effect on the measured characteristics. Also the using of vermicompost was increased the yield and yield components of chickpea. ','Legumes dry seeds are eatable that belongs to the legume family and they are under Papilionaceae family. Dry and ripe seeds of legumes have a high nutritional value and a good ability tohold and one of the major sources and is rich in protein, chickpea is an important source of vegetable protein and one of the legumes that has an important role in the human diet (Zaidi et al., 2003). Chickpea (Cicer arietinum L.) is one of cold like legumes that today its cultivation more than 10 million hectares of the world\'s land is devoted to itself (FAO, 2004). Chickpea is contained large amounts of Lysine and Tryptophan amino acids that their amount is lower than in cereals, this plant is included high protein percent and carbohydrate amounts and the amounts of fiber is low in it (Chapman, 2001). Trypsin inhibitors in Chickpea 5 to 20% is lower than in soybean that it allows direct feeding to livestock without preparation process (Schneider, 2002). The use of chickpea as a cover plant protects ','Ali Mohammadi Amin* and Mohammad Sharif Moghadasi (2015). The interaction effect of nitrogen and vermicompost on chickpea yield and yield components in Hamedan region . Biological Forum â€“ An International Journal 7(2): 812-816 . '),(4042,'118','Priority Setting of affecting Factors on Application of Strategic Management in Agricultural Knowledge and Information System in Iran','Hosna Milad, Iraj Malekmohammadi, Mohammad Chizari and Seyed Mahmood Hosseini','137 IRAJ MALEKMOHAMMADI.pdf','',1,'The purpose of this research was to identify internal factors affecting on strategic management in agricultural knowledge and information system. This study used quantitative research method. The research method was quantitative in its nature and applied from the research objective and cross sectional from the viewpoint of data collection. A questionnaire was developed based on these interviews and relevant literature. The research population included field and official experts of Agriculture Jihad Organization of Alborz and Tehran province(N=161).The results showed that the most important internal factors affecting on strategic management in agricultural knowledge and information system consist of: planning, structural, management and leadership, workforce that the most important factors mentioned by respondents.','Priority setting, Affecting factors, Application, Strategic Management, Knowledge and Information system, Iran. ','The purpose of this research was to identify internal factors affecting on strategic management in agricultural knowledge and information system. This study used quantitative research method. The research method was quantitative in its nature and applied from the research objective and cross sectional from the viewpoint of data collection. A questionnaire was developed based on these interviews and relevant literature. The research population included field and official experts of Agriculture Jihad Organization of Alborz and Tehran province(N=161).The results showed that the most important internal factors affecting on strategic management in agricultural knowledge and information system consist of: planning, structural, management and leadership, workforce that the most important factors mentioned by respondents. ','The fundamental role that agriculture plays in development has long been recognized. In the seminal work on the subject, agriculture was seen as a source of contributions that helped induce industrial growth and a structural transformation of the economy. However, globalization, integrated value chains, rapid technological and institutional innovations, and environmental constraints have rapidly changed the context for agriculture\'s role (Byerlee et al., 2009). So, governments are facing new extension challenges: meeting the need to provide food for all, raising rural incomes and reducing poverty, and sustainably managing natural resources. These critical challenges exist in a rapidly changing world. Globalization, new technologies, the new relationships developing between the public and private sectors, the multi-disciplinary nature of agriculture, heterogeneity between and within countries, the geographic dispersion of rural people - all thes','Hosna Milad, Iraj Malekmohammadi, Mohammad Chizari and Seyed Mahmood Hosseini (2015). Priority Setting of affecting Factors on Application of Strategic Management in Agricultural Knowledge and Information System in Iran , Biological Forum â€“ An Internati'),(4043,'118','The Relationship between Sea Surface Temperature and \r\nChlorophyll-a Concentration in Arabian Sea\r\n','Umair Bin Zamir, Hina Masood, Nelofer Jamil, Anila Bahadur, Muniza Munir, Palwasha Tareen, Nafisa Kakar and Humaira Ashraf\r\n','138 HINA MASOOD.pdf','',1,'This study examine the association between sea surface temperature (SST) and chlorophyll-a(Chl-a) by using OC3M algorithm across the Arabian Sea. Investigating the affiliation between SST and Chl-a helps in understanding the ocean yields pattern. A multi temporal dataset from June 2013 to May 2014 MODIS Aqua satellite-derived ocean chlorophyll concentration and sea surface temperature is used for analyzing the changing trends by using cubic regression analysis. This study also attempts to monitor the monthly variation in chlorophyll-a pattern across the Arabian Sea. A typical GIS and RS techniques are used for depicting the temporal variation and finding the relationship between chlorophyll-a with sea surface temperature (SST). ','Chlorophyll-a concentrations, sea surface temperature, MODIS, remote sensing, Arabian Sea.','The present study illustrate the Monthly variation of Chlorophyll-a concentration and association with SST in Arabian Sea. Significant correlation between Sea surface temperature and Chl-a concentration were also obtained. The study of Chl-a concentration showed that the period of high Chl-a concentration found from September to February with a peak in November. A period of low Chl-a concentration are found in May to August. The seasonal variation in chlorophyll-a concentration was highest in autumn and winter and lowest in summer. The study also revealed that the maximum SST observed in month of September and the minimum is observed in the month of June, August, and September. The distribution of lowest SST observed in the south and southeastern part of the Arabian Sea. ','Remote sensing is a powerful aid to monitor Ocean color that helps in collecting information about the ingredients of sea water like phytoplankton pigments, suspended sediments etc. Mapping of Sea and detection of constituents by using space-borne platform helps in routine monitoring of temporal variation of Chl-a. Monitoring the trends of marine ecosystem productivity is the major concerned from past few decades by different scientific societies and in many international publications (Behrenfeld et al., 2006; Boyce, Lewis, & Worm, 2010; Doney, 2006; Piontkovski & Castellani, 2009; Worm, Sandow, Oschlies, Lotze, & Myers, 2005). The potential of oceanic ecosystem in terms of yield is often dependent upon the concentration of (chlorophyll-a) or in oceanic remote sensing presence of (chlorophyll-a) is considered as a representation of the phytoplankton whilst this indicator of productivity should be applied carefully (Hayward & Venrick, 1982; Longhurst, 1998). Generally (chlorophyll-a) is','Umair Bin Zamir, Hina Masood, Nelofer Jamil, Anila Bahadur, Muniza Munir, Palwasha Tareen, Nafisa Kakar and Humaira Ashraf (2015). The Relationship between Sea Surface Temperature and Chlorophyll-a Concentration in Arabian Sea , Biological Forum â€“ An In'),(4044,'118','Effects of Sowing Date on Yield and Yield Components in Sweet Maize (Zea mays L.) Hybrids','Hamzeh Ali Kharazmshahi, Hossein Zahedi and Akbar Alipour','139 HOSSEIN ZAHEDI.pdf','',1,'In order to determine the effects of sowing date on yield and yield components of nine sweet maize hybrids, an experiment was performed as factorial based randomized complete block design with three replicates. Sowing date in two levels (15 and 30 May) and nine sweet maize hybrids (Chase, Power house, Harvest gold, Temptation, Challenger, Basin, Ex08716636, Obsission and Ksc403su) were the treatments. Results of ANOVA revealed significant difference of sowing date and sweet maize hybrids on number of days to emergence tassel, number of days to anthesis, number of days to emergence spikelet, plant height, cob height, stem diameter, plant dry weight, cob dry weight, number of grain rows, cob diameter, 1000 kernel weight, cob length and net weight grain harvest per plant. Mean comparisons showed that the highest grain yield was for Ex08716636 variety and it was obtained on 15 May planting date.','sowing date, sweet maize, hybrids, yield and yield components.','In order to determine the effects of sowing date on yield and yield components of nine sweet maize hybrids, an experiment was performed as factorial based randomized complete block design with three replicates. Sowing date in two levels (15 and 30 May) and nine sweet maize hybrids (Chase, Power house, Harvest gold, Temptation, Challenger, Basin, Ex08716636, Obsission and Ksc403su) were the treatments. Results of ANOVA revealed significant difference of sowing date and sweet maize hybrids on number of days to emergence tassel, number of days to anthesis, number of days to emergence spikelet, plant height, cob height, stem diameter, plant dry weight, cob dry weight, number of grain rows, cob diameter, 1000 kernel weight, cob length and net weight grain harvest per plant. Mean comparisons showed that the highest grain yield was for Ex08716636 variety and it was obtained on 15 May planting date.','Fresh sweet corn (Zea mays L. var. saccharata) has been consumed broadly by boiling or by grilling since past times. Production and use of sweet corn has expanded rapidly in recent years. Sweet corn varies from other corns (field maize, popcorn and ornamental) since the grains have great sugar content in the milk on early dough stage. It is consumed in the immature stage of the crop. The taste of sweet corn kernels is 25-30% sweeter than normal corn. At optimum market maturity, sweet corn will contain 5 to 6% sugar, 10 to 11% starch, 3% water-soluble polysaccharides, and 70% water. Sweet corn also has medium levels of protein, vitamin A (yellow varieties), and potassium (Najeeb et al., 2011; Walker, 2013). It can be consumed as fresh, frozen or conserved and also used particularly as garniture in the salads. Corn (Zea mays L.) is one of the most important cereal crops grown principally during the summer in Iran. One of the important cereal crops in the world and Iran after wheat and ri','Hamzeh Ali Kharazmshahi, Hossein Zahedi and Akbar Alipour (2015). Effects of Sowing Date on Yield and Yield Components in Sweet Maize (Zea mays L.) Hybrids, Biological Forum â€“ An International Journal 7(2): 835-840 ,'),(4045,'118','Lappet Moths (Lepidoptera : Lasiocampidae) of north-west India- brief notes on some frequently occurring species','Rachita Sood, P.C. Pathania and H.S. Rose','140 DR RACHITA AND PATHANIA.pdf','',1,'Four species, i.e, Trabala vishnou Lefebvre (Lasiocampinae), Suana concolor Walker, Euthrix laeta Walker and Gastropacha pardalis (Walker) (Gastropachinae) of Lasiocampidae moths were collected from north-west India, and are here described and illustrated. Besides an illustrated account of their genitalia, diagnostics of these subfamilies, genera and species are also provided.','Lappet Moths, Lasiocampidae, Lepidoptera, North-West India','Four species, i.e, Trabala vishnou Lefebvre (Lasiocampinae), Suana concolor Walker, Euthrix laeta Walker and Gastropacha pardalis (Walker) (Gastropachinae) of Lasiocampidae moths were collected from north-west India, and are here described and illustrated. Besides an illustrated account of their genitalia, diagnostics of these subfamilies, genera and species are also provided. ','This family of the Eggar or Lappet moths is most diverse in the Old World tropics, with about 2,200 species so far known worldwide, but absent from New Zealand (Holloway , 1987). The moths are medium to large, and of a robust and hairy appearance. They are generally cryptically coloured and patterned. Both forewings and hindwings are usually broad, but however there are some Old World genera in which the forewings are relatively narrow, the hindwings relatively small, and with abdomen extending well beyond the wings when at rest. Sometimes the female is brachypterous. Sexual dimorphism is typical (Scoble, 1992). \r\nThe eggs are laid singly, in small clusters, or in compact masses. They may be covered by scales from the terminal tuft of the female or, in some groups, by spumaline â€“ a frothy substance released from the accessory glands of the female. The female is generally sluggish, and in some species may be apterous. The resting posture of many lappet moths is characteristic,','Rachita Sood, P.C. Pathania and H.S. Rose (2015) Lappet Moths (Lepidoptera : Lasiocampidae) of north-west India- brief notes on some frequently occurring species , Biological Forum â€“ An International Journal 7(2): 841-847 . '),(4046,'118','Study of the Combined Impact of Diclofenac and Lemon Balm Extracts on the Reduction of Pulmonary Fibrosis Caused by Bleomycin','Negar Hosseini Beheshti and Iraj Javadi','141 NEGAR HOSSEINI BEHESHTI AND IRAJ JAVADI.pdf','',1,'Bleomycin antibiotic has the minimal toxic impacts on bone marrow cells due to its anti-cancer activity. Therefore, the blood side effects caused by it are minimal. The main problem by using this drug is pulmonary fibrosis. In the present study, the impact of combination of the plant extracts of lemon, with its antioxidant and anti-cancer activity property, and Diclofenac as an anti-inflammatory on pulmonary fibrosis inhibition resulting from Bleomycin injection has been investigated. In this study, three groups of adult male Wistar rats were selected. Positive control group, negative group, and combined group who received 600 ?g / kg Diclofenac and 75 mg / kg extract of lemon balm simultaneously as a treatment in a 7-days pre-treatment period for 14 days after the prescription of endotracheal Bleomycin. The results show that lung weight, the rate of hydroxyproline, the rate of malondialdehyde in lung and the ratio of lung weight to animal weight on the last day of bleomycin group comp','Bleomycin, Pulmonary fibrosis, Diclofenac, Lemon Balm Extracts','Based on found results, it can be concluded that the combination of these two materials could reduce the rate of progression of pulmonary fibrosis. To create pulmonary fibrosis model, rat was used as experimental animal, since it has been demonstrated that pulmonary toxicity of bleomycin on the lung tissue of rat that received a single dose of bleomycin is similar to pulmonary complications associated with systemic prescription of the drug in humans (Rajasekaran et al., 2013, Liang et al., 2013). Morphological changes showed that bleomycin injection increased the lung weight, which is for two reasons, firstly because of edema and accumulation of collagen fibers, and secondly it caused histological changes such as large-scale destruction of the alveoli, the accumulation of inflammatory cells and accumulation of fibers collagen in the lung tissue in terms of histology. In the event of inflammatory diseases in the lung, parts of the antioxidants produced in the lung cross over cell membra','Due to minimal toxic effects on bone marrow and hematopoietic system and reducing its immunosuppressive properties, Bleomycin is present in most of the multi-drug chemotherapy regimens of cancer. Unfortunately, following its use in 0 to 40 percent of cases, the side effects of pulmonary fibrosis are fatal in 1% of cases (Thomas and Tedder 2010). Pulmonary fibrosis is a fatal disease that cannot be cured easily. It usually starts with damaged air sacs followed by inflammation and accumulation of collagen and extracellular matrix components in the walls of the air sacs (Tyler and Duane 2014, Luigi et al., 2013). The created damage stimulates the epithelial and endothelial cells, resulting in the accumulation of inflammatory cells in the air sacs. Then, the released oxygen radicals lead to secretion of cytokines. These factors are associated with proliferation of fibroblasts in the interstitial area of the air sacs, the renewal of collagen gene expression, and thus deposition of collagen','Negar Hosseini Beheshti and Iraj Javadi (2015). Study of the Combined Impact of Diclofenac and Lemon Balm Extracts on the Reduction of Pulmonary Fibrosis Caused by Bleomycin , Biological Forum â€“ An International Journal 7(2): 848-853 .'),(4047,'118','Effect of different intercropping patterns on yield and yield components of maize (Zea mays L.) and faba bean (Vicia faba L.)','Farzaneh Jenani Oskoii, Safar Nasrollahzadeh, Mohammad Reza Shakiba and Adel Dabbagh Mohammadi Nasab\r\n','142 SAFAR NASR.pdf','',1,'In order to evaluate the effects of different intercropping arrangements on yield and yield components of maize and faba bean, an experiment was conducted in Research Station of Faculty of Agriculture, University of Tabriz, Tabriz, Iran, 2013. Experimental design was Randomized Complete Block Design (RCBD) with three replications and seven treatments. Treatments were: sole crop of maize, sole crop of faba bean, row intercropping (1:1) and 5 patterns of strip intercropping of maize : faba bean (1:2, 1:3, 2:1 and 2:2) . According to the results, highest plant hight, seed and biological yield were observed in pure crop of maize but, the effects of various plant patterns on grain weight was not significant. Sole cropping patterns had high ratios of pod /plant, seed number in plant, seed yield and biological yield. The results of this experiment indicate that sole cropping of maize and faba bean because of producing high grain yield, is superior to other treatments and can be used in simila','Intercropping, Maize, Yield, Yield components.','In order to evaluate the effects of different intercropping arrangements on yield and yield components of maize and faba bean, an experiment was conducted in Research Station of Faculty of Agriculture, University of Tabriz, Tabriz, Iran, 2013. Experimental design was Randomized Complete Block Design (RCBD) with three replications and seven treatments. Treatments were: sole crop of maize, sole crop of faba bean, row intercropping (1:1) and 5 patterns of strip intercropping of maize : faba bean (1:2, 1:3, 2:1 and 2:2) . According to the results, highest plant hight, seed and biological yield were observed in pure crop of maize but, the effects of various plant patterns on grain weight was not significant. Sole cropping patterns had high ratios of pod /plant, seed number in plant, seed yield and biological yield. The results of this experiment indicate that sole cropping of maize and faba bean because of producing high grain yield, is superior to other treatments and can be used in simila','The success of modern intensive agriculture in recent years due to the increasing demand for the agricultural products often is accompanied by an increase in soil erosion and environmental pollution follow the excessive use of the agrochemical and fertilizers, and problem of pests and weeds management (Poggio, 2005). Increasing global interest to the organic agriculture in recent years is mainly due to it\'s emphasis on stability and decreasing the environmental impacts (Wood et al., 2006). Restoring on-farm biodiversity through diversified farming systems that mimic nature is considered to be a key strategy for sustainable agriculture (Jackson et al., 2007). Many researchers believe that applying intercropping patterns in the farming ecosystems is the main reason for increasing the diversity in these systems (Olasant, 1999). Intercropping is defined as the simultaneous growth of two or more species, grown in the same area here they share the use of resources during all or part of their','Farzaneh Jenani Oskoii, Safar Nasrollahzadeh, Mohammad Reza Shakiba and Adel Dabbagh Mohammadi Nasab (2015). Effect of different intercropping patterns on yield and yield components of maize (Zea mays L.) and faba bean (Vicia faba L.) , Biological Forum'),(4048,'118','Influence of water stress and cultivar on some characteristic of soy bean','Fateme Mortazavi, Ahmad Mehraban, Hamid Reza Fanaei','143 AHMAD MEHERBAN.pdf','',1,'Plants are subjected to several rude environmental stresses that adversely affect their growth, metabolism, and yield. Drought is a meteorological term and defined as a stage without sufficient rainfall for crop growth and yield. The damage of yield under drought stress conditions depends on the soybean phonological phase, duration and intensity of drought. The field experiment was laid out split plot with randomized complete block design with three replications. Treatments included water stress (control, Water stress at flowering and grain filling) and Soybean Cultivars (PE, HT, V292, Sahar, M7, DPX, M9, Williams). Analysis of variance showed that the effect of cultivar on all characteristic was significant. Analysis of variance showed that the effect of water stress on biological yield and grain yield was significant.','Harvest Index, Biological yield, Grain yield','Plants are subjected to several rude environmental stresses that adversely affect their growth, metabolism, and yield. Drought is a meteorological term and defined as a stage without sufficient rainfall for crop growth and yield. The damage of yield under drought stress conditions depends on the soybean phonological phase, duration and intensity of drought. The field experiment was laid out split plot with randomized complete block design with three replications. Treatments included water stress (control, Water stress at flowering and grain filling) and Soybean Cultivars (PE, HT, V292, Sahar, M7, DPX, M9, Williams). Analysis of variance showed that the effect of cultivar on all characteristic was significant. Analysis of variance showed that the effect of water stress on biological yield and grain yield was significant. ','Plants are subjected to several rude environmental stresses that adversely affect their growth, metabolism, and yield. Drought is a meteorological term and defined as a period without sufficient rainfall for crop growth and productivity. This limitation for water supply in agriculture is likely to increase in the future due to growth of population and economical sectors other than agriculture (Araus 2004). Soybean is considered a species sensitive to several abiotic stresses (Van Heerden and KrÃ¼ger 2000), when compared with other tropical legumes, such as Vigna unguiculata and Phaseolus vulgaris (Roy-Macauley et al. 1992; Silveira et al. 2003), as well as others species as Gossypium hirsutum, Sorghum bicolor (Younis et al. 2000) and chickpea (Talebi et al. 2013). The worldwide importance of soybean and the main limitations to crop yields Because of its potential for large-scale production, soybean (Glycine max (L.) Merrill) has excelled in the world agricultural economy as a major oil','Fateme Mortazavi, Ahmad Mehraban, Hamid Reza Fanaei (2015). Influence of water stress and cultivar on some characteristic of soy bean , Biological Forum â€“ An International Journal 7(2): 859-861.'),(4049,'118','A GIS-based statistical model for landslide susceptibility mapping: A case study in the Taleghan watershed, Iran','Amir Eshaghi, Hasan Ahmadi, Baharak Motamedvaziri and Aliakbar Nazari Samani','144 AMIR ESHAGHI.pdf','',1,'Preparation of landslide susceptibility map is the first step for landslide hazard mitigation and risk assessment. The main aim of this study is to identify areas prone to landslides in Taleghan watershed in Iran. For this purpose, thematic maps of twelve effective factors on landslide, including altitude, slope angle, aspect, plan curvature, rainfall, temperature, land-use, vegetation density, lithology, distance from faults, distance from rivers and distance from roads, are prepared by use of topographic maps, geological maps, geographic information system (GIS), aerial photographs, Satellite images and field study. In order to quantifying the parameters in the form of weighting factors, the coverage of landslides in different observation was determined. The relationship between the factors and the landslides were calculated using multiple regression analysis; The Stepwise method was used for statistical analysis. Result showed that Lithology, distance from the river, distance from r','landslides, susceptibility mapping, Multiple Regression, GIS, Taleghan','The result shows that seven factors including lithology, distance from the river, distance from roads, elevation, land-use, distance from fault and slope angle, are more important than the others. With multivariate regression model interrelation existing between instability factors \r\nare more highlighted. As a final conclusion, the results from this study may be useful for land-use planning and decision making in landslide prone areas.\r\n','Landslide is a natural disaster that can result in enormous property damages and human casualties. In many countries, the economic losses and causalities due to landslides are greater than commonly recognized and generate a yearly loss of property larger than that from any other natural disaster, including earthquakes, floods and volcanoes (Ayalew et al., 2004). Landslide susceptibility maps are important tools for planning future developmental activities. \r\nThe aim of the landslide susceptibility mapping is to identify areas that are susceptible to future landslides, based on the knowledge of past landslide events and terrain parameters, geological attributes and other possibly anthropogenic environmental conditions that are associated with the presence or absence of such phenomena. During the recent decades, the use of landslide susceptibility maps for land use planning has increased significantly. These maps rank different sections of land surface according to the degree of actual o','Amir Eshaghi, Hasan Ahmadi, Baharak Motamedvaziri and Aliakbar Nazari Samani (2015) . A GIS-based statistical model for landslide susceptibility mapping: A case study in the Taleghan watershed, Iran , Biological Forum â€“ An International Journal 7(2): '),(4050,'118','Improvement of Soil Physicochemical Characteristics Using Legume Crops','Abdollah Javanmard','145 ABDOLLAH JAVANMARD.pdf','',1,'The use of legume crops as a green manure is considered an important agronomic technique in cropping systems to improve soil quality and crop production. We conducted a field experiment to evaluate the impact of legume crops Grasspea (Lathyrus sativus), Vetch (Vicia villosa L), Berseem clover (Trifolium alexandrinum), Sainfoin (Onobrychis sativus), Maragheh Vetch (Vicia dasycarpa) and Control treatment (without green manure) on the organic carbon (OC), calcium carbonate equivalent (CCE), bulk density, moisture percentage and electrical conductivity of soil extract. This study was carried out at the Research Farm of Maragheh University, Maragheh, Iran in 2013. Legume crops were sown at the beginning of May and ploughed three months later. Soil samples were taken in autumn before wheat sowing (September). Result showed that the green manure application have significant effects on the organic carbon (OC), calcium carbonate equivalent (CCE), bulk density, moisture percentage and electrical','Berseem clover, Bulk density, Electrical conductivity, Green manure, Organic carbon.','The use of legume crops as a green manure is considered an important agronomic technique in cropping systems to improve soil quality and crop production. We conducted a field experiment to evaluate the impact of legume crops Grasspea (Lathyrus sativus), Vetch (Vicia villosa L), Berseem clover (Trifolium alexandrinum), Sainfoin (Onobrychis sativus), Maragheh Vetch (Vicia dasycarpa) and Control treatment (without green manure) on the organic carbon (OC), calcium carbonate equivalent (CCE), bulk density, moisture percentage and electrical conductivity of soil extract. This study was carried out at the Research Farm of Maragheh University, Maragheh, Iran in 2013. Legume crops were sown at the beginning of May and ploughed three months later. Soil samples were taken in autumn before wheat sowing (September). Result showed that the green manure application have significant effects on the organic carbon (OC), calcium carbonate equivalent (CCE), bulk density, moisture percentage and electrical','Leguminous green manure is a standard management tool in cropping systems, because it provides nitrogen (N) to subsequent crops. While the practice of applying leguminous green manures is declining in the modern cropping system due to the availability of synthetic fertilizers and the cost and time required producing a green manure crop, they remain extensively used in low-input cropping systems in tropical and subtropical areas (Peng Chen et al., 2014). The increasing costs of synthetic fertilizers and the deterioration of soil properties, in the absence of legumes, have prompted many farmers to reconsider leguminous green manure (Crews and Peoples, 2004).\r\nAlso, long-term agricultural practices and technologies, such as monocultures, the excess use of inorganic fertilizers and pesticides along with a simultaneous decrease in organic manure amendments applied to the soil, agricultural heavy machinery, and inadequate practices of soil management, can significantly affect soil quality by','Abdollah Javanmard (2015) . Improvement of Soil Physicochemical Characteristics Using Legume Crops Biological Forum â€“ An International Journal 7(2): 869-874 . '),(4051,'112','Study of Growth Indices and Chlorophyll content in kharif Rice as Influenced by Irrigation Scheduling and Bio-inoculants Enriched Municipal Solid Waste Compost','Monalisa Sahoo, Yashwant Singh, Avijit Sen, Ram Kumar Singh and Rakhi Mahto','279 Study of Growth Indices and Chlorophyll content in kharif Rice as Influenced by Irrigation Scheduling and Bio-inoculants Enriched Municipal Solid Waste Compost Monalisa Sahoo.pdf','',1,'Irrigation as well as nutrient management plays an important role in rice growth and photosynthetic activity leading to increased crop yield. Therefore, making it essential to study the growth indices throughout the growing season. Also, long-term intensive rice cultivation using traditional methods has been linked with severe problems especially groundwater depletion and multiple nutrient deficiencies raising concerns with respect to sustainable rice growth and production. To address this issue, a two-year experiment was conducted to investigate the effect of irrigation schedule and bio-inoculants enriched municipal solid waste compost on kharif rice in Varanasi, U.P., India. The experiment was laid out in split plot design with four irrigation scheduling treatment in main plot viz. Alternate wetting and drying, Saturation (at field capacity), 2.5 cm irrigation at 7 days, 5 cm irrigation at 7 days and five treatments in sub plot viz. NPK (RDF), NPK (RDF)+MSW@10 t ha-1, NPK (RDF)+MSW(N','Irrigation scheduling, E-MSW (Enriched Municipal solid Waste compost), LAI, CGR, Chlorophyll content and NAR','Incorporation of E-MSW (Enriched Municipal Solid Waste compost) along with inorganic fertilizers into rice field could improve the growth indices viz., LAI, CGR, RGR as well as the chlorophyll content of the crop. When comes to different irrigation scheduling, however, it is evident that beneficial effects of the combined application of chemical fertilizers and enriched municipal solid waste are significantly different. Saturation (at field capacity) significantly increased the LAI, CGR as well as the chlorophyll content of rice crop as compared to other irrigation scheduling treatments. However, the alternate wetting and drying showed significantly lower growth indices by the rice plants. ','Rice (Oryza sativa L.) is a primary source of food consumed by more than 3 billion people across the world and hence, deserves a special status among the cereals. In terms of production, India holds the second rank after China and hence, rice has a great importance in Indian agriculture as well as the economy generated by it. In India, rice is cultivated in 44.72 m ha, with a total production of around 117.47 million tonnes (Anonymous, 2020-21) but productivity as low as 2.65 t/ha (Agricultural Statistics at a Glance, 2019). According to the projections made by the Population Foundation of India, the countryâ€™s population will be 1824 million by the end of 2050. To feed these population, demand of rice will be 137.3 million tonnes by the year 2050 (Vision 2050). Therefore, exploring ways to produce more with less is essential for food security and sustaining environmental health.\r\nTraditional method of transplanting under continuous submergence has been prevailing as the most common m','Monalisa Sahoo, Yashwant Singh, Avijit Sen, Ram Kumar Singh, Rakhi Mahto (2022). Study of Growth Indices and Chlorophyll content in kharif Rice as Influenced by Irrigation Scheduling and Bio-inoculants Enriched Municipal Solid Waste Compost. Biological Fo'),(4052,'112','Diversity Analysis of Wheat Hybrids Grown under Timely and Late Sown condition','Ajay Jaiswal, R.S. Shukla, Sharad Tiwari, Vinod Kumar, Suneeta Pandey and Sanjay Singh','280 Diversity Analysis of Wheat Hybrids Grown under Timely and Late Sown condition Ajay Jaiswal.pdf','',1,'To allow for more efficient genetic improvement, an assessment of genetic variance within various germplasm is required. Sixty- eight hybrid wheat genotypes including 10 CMS lines, 5 restorer and 3 checks were evaluated for 13 breeding traits in randomized block design in two environments to find out how much genetic variability there is between genotypes for grain yield and other agronomic traits. Average linkage cluster analysis classified 68 genotypes into four clusters. Higher inter-cluster distance was found between cluster III and II (D2 = 345.07), followed by cluster IV and II (D2 = 319.31), cluster IV and I (D2 = 196.69), cluster II and I (166.17), cluster IV and III (150.02) and cluster III and I (131.79) indicating wider genetic diversity among these clusters. To improve the breeding traits for the enhancement of genetic gain, the parental lines may be crossed with the lines found higher inter cluster distance. Hybridization in between the genotypes of higher inter cluster di','Hybrid wheat, Cluster analysis, Genetic distance, Genetic diversity. ','Overall variability within a crop is due to heritable and non- heritable components. The present study comprised 68 hybrid wheat genotypes including 15 parental lines with 3 checks that were evaluated at two environments to study the genetic diversity. The highest inter-cluster distance was exhibited between cluster III and II (D2 = 345.07), followed by cluster IV and II (D2 = 319.31), cluster IV and I (D2 = 196.69), cluster II and I (166.17), cluster IV and III (150.02) and cluster III and I (131.79), indicating wider genetic diversity among the clusters. Therefore, initiating crossing program between parental lines of cluster II with members of cluster III; members of cluster II with members of cluster IV; members of cluster I with members of cluster II, III and IV may produce a high amount of heterotic expression in the F1â€™s and broad spectrum of variability in segregating (F2) populations. As a result, hybrids with a high inter cluster distance and intra cluster distance','Wheat (Triticum aestivum L.) belongs to the family Gramineae (Poaceae) has been a staple food of the major civilizations for 8000 years. It is the world\'s most widely farmed cereal crop, accounting for 17 percent of global agricultural area, feeding roughly 40% of the world\'s population and providing 20% of total food calories and protein in human nutrition (Ajmal et al., 2013; Getachew et al., 2017; Kumar et al., 2021). To feed an ever-increasing population, improved genotypes are needed to boost wheat production potential per unit area. This could be accomplished by making the most of wheat genetic material\'s genetic potential. With 109.52 million tonnes of wheat produced, India is the world\'s second-largest wheat producer. Madhya Pradesh is the world\'s second-largest wheat grower, with 6.69 million hectares, 17.58 million tonnes, and 2627 kilograms per hectare, respectively. (Anonymous, 2020-21). Analyzing the targeted wheat output at the national level in order to meet demand by 20','Ajay Jaiswal, R.S. Shukla, Sharad Tiwari, Vinod Kumar, Suneeta Pandey and Sanjay Singh (2022). Diversity Analysis of Wheat Hybrids Grown under Timely and Late Sown Condition. Biological Forum â€“ An International Journal, 14(1): 1592-1595.'),(4053,'112','Survey and Epidemiological Studies of Sesame Phyllody Diseases','Pinki Devi Yadav, G.S. Rathore, Sunita Choudhary, Pooja Yadav and Mateti Gayithri','281 Survey and Epidemiological Studies of Sesame Phyllody Diseases Pinki Devi Yadav.pdf','',1,'Sesame (Sesamum indicum L.) belongs to family pedaliaceae, which have basic chromosome number 2n =26 and originated in India. It is oldest oilseed crop. The sesame phyllody was observed to be widely distributed the entire ten village of Jaipur district. , a roving survey of sesame fields at 50 per cent capsule forming stage in Jaipur district near in 10 locations were under taken during Kharif-2019. The maximum disease incidence was recorded at Bhutera (26.05%) followed by Pachkodiya (25.23%) and the severity of sesame phyllody in surveyed areas was from 17.90 to 26.05%. Among the environmental factors effecting sesame phyllody were minimum temperature, relative humidity and rainfall that increase both leaf hopper population and per cent disease incidence except maximum temperature which show non-significant negative correlation with disease incidence and leaf hopper population.','Phyllody, temperature, disease incidence, leaf hopper.','The incidence of sesame phyllody varied from village to village in the ten village of Jaipur district during survey and it was maximum in Bhutera village (26.05%) and minimum in village Dhani Boraj (17.90%). Typical symptoms of sesame phyllody under investigation were phyllody, virescence, witchesâ€™ broom, stunting, yellowing and sterility.\r\n Among the environmental factors effecting sesame phyllody were minimum temperature, relative humidity and rainfall that increase both leaf hopper population and per-cent disease incidence except maximum temperature which show non-significant negative correlation with disease incidence and leaf hopper population.\r\n','Sesame (Sesamum indicum L.) belongs to family pedaliaceae, which have basic chromosome number 2n =26 and originated in India. It is also Known as til (Hindi), tal (Gujarati), till (Panjabi), nuvvulu (Telugu), ellu (Tamil) and ragi (oriya) in different til growing parts of India. Sesame is an important annual oilseed crop which requires warm and hot climate and commonly grown under stressed condition from tropical to temperate region. Sesame is an annual, tall growing (1.0 to 1.5 meter) herbaceous plant which mature in about 90 to 110 days. As an ancient and important oily seed crop, sesame is cultivated mainly for its valuable edible oil used for human cooking oil and besides its positive human health benefits (Jayaraj et al., 2020). Due to its amazing cosmetic and skin-care properties itâ€™s oil widely used in shampoos, massage toilatery products, soaps, detergents, pharmaceuticals and perfumes etc. and due to these properties, it is called â€œQueen of oilsâ€ (Anonymous, 2006). Ses','Pinki Devi Yadav, G.S. Rathore, Ranjana Meena, Sunita Choudhary, Pooja Yadav and Mateti Gayithri (2022). Survey and Epidemiological Studies of Sesame Phyllody Diseases. Biological Forum â€“ An International Journal, 14(1): 1596-1600.'),(4054,'112','Leaching Behaviour of Ready-mix formulation of (Chlorantraniliprole 8.8 + Thiamethoxam 17.5 SC) at different Depths of Sandy Loam Soil','Preeti Dhanker*, Sushil Ahlawat, Reena Chauhan, Rahul Dhankar, Pooja and Satender Kumar','282 Leaching Behaviour of Ready-mix formulation of Chlorantraniliprole 8.8 Thiamethoxam 17.5 SC at Different Depths of Sandy Loam Soil Preeti Dhanker 2315.pdf','',1,'Ground-water pollution through leaching of pesticides is one of the major issues. This in turn results in hazard to aquatic systems and drinking water resources. Diffused chemicals via leaching make groundwater vulnerable to pollution, hence making it unfit for proper usage. So, in order to safeguard the leaching losses as well pattern of diffusion, leaching behaviour of ready-premix formulation of Chlorantraniliprole 8.8% + Thiamethoxam 17.5% SC was experimented in sandy loam soil at 150 g. a.i. ha-1 (single dose) and 300 g a.i. ha-1 (double dose) under various laboratory conditions following average annual rainfall of 400 mm. Residues were estimated at variable depths of soil and in leachates with the help of gas chromatography (GC-MS) equipped with electron capture detector (ECD). Method validation was done by performing recovery procedures at a series of different spiking levels ranging 0.01 - 0.10 mg kg-1. Results obtained reported that the residues retained maximum in uppermost c','Diffusion, leaching, method, pesticide, wet.','The present experiment was conducted in order to ensure safety, sensible as well as effective use of the insecticides Chlorantraniliprole and Thiamethoxam with respect to human health risks and ecology safety. From the results discussed it can be concluded that no residues were present after 40 cm depth in both the cases and none of the residues of combination product were observed in leachates, hence it is safe for both soil as well as ground water. With the obtained results the scope for risk arising from future use of the combination product is ensured and are safe for use.','Ground water as well as surface water deterioration and contamination all around the globe has come up as a fire point over the last few decades due to extent use of pesticides. Residues of a number of pesticides and their degradation products have been very frequently detected in water collected from fields and irrigation canals. On one hand these agro-chemicals are one of the major agricultural assets these days, but whether used in natural or synthetic form, they do actively pose innumerable toxicological hazards and can cause severe risks if occur as remains in the environment. Their persistence as well as leaching in soil contributes huge towards groundwater contamination. There are a number of factors that signifies the presence of insecticide residues in runoff, sediment and leachate, and their mobility or persistence in soil. Such factors include, chemical and physical properties of the compound, soil properties, rainfall, bed construction and the degree of slope (Halimah et al','Preeti Dhanker, Sushil Ahlawat, Reena Chauhan, Rahul Dhankar, Pooja and Satender Kumar (2022). Leaching Behaviour of Ready-mix formulation of (Chlorantraniliprole 8.8 % + Thiamethoxam 17.5 % SC) at Different Depths of Sandy Loam Soil. Biological Forum â€“'),(4055,'112','Pathogenicity and Reproductive Potential of Root-knot nematode, \r\nMeloidogyne incognita on Dragon Fruit (Hylocereus spp.)\r\n','Prasanna Holajjer, Bhaskar Bajaru, B. Parameswari, N. Sivaraj, M. Srinivas Rao and K. Anitha','283 Diversity in Bread Wheat genotypes _Triticum aestivum L. deciphered by Multivariate Biplot analysis Prasanna Holajjer.pdf','',1,'The effect of different initial population density of root-knot nematode and damage they cause to the plants (in terms of root-galling) in dragon fruit, and nematode multiplication rate in soil was studied. The initial population density of nematodes (200, 500, 1000 and 2000 J2s/ 200 cm3 soil) caused significant number of galls on the dragon fruit root system after 90 days of inoculation. Significantly higher numbers of galls (85.00/plant) were observed in the initial population density of 2000 J2s/200 cm3 soil compared to 52.50 galls/plant in initial population density of 200 J2s/200 cm3 soil. Higher multiplication rate (8.77-fold increase) was observed at the initial population density of 500 J2s/200 cm3 soil. The present study clearly indicated association of M. incognita with dragon fruit is pathogenic as significant number of galls/egg masses and high nematode population density in soil was observed at initial population density of 500 J2s/200 cm3 soil.','Meloidogyne incognita, dragon fruit, pathogenicity, multiplication','The M. incognita is an obligate plant parasite responsible for reduction in fruit-yield in several fruit crops. The present study clearly indicated association of M. incognita with dragon fruit is pathogenic as significant number of galls/egg masses and high soil nematode population observed at initial population density of 500 J2s/200 cm3 soil. Further studies on survey and surveillance of root-knot nematodes in dragon fruit fields, symptomatology and losses caused by nematodes will greatly help in understanding the nematode behavior in dragon fruit and timely implementation of nematode management strategies. ','Dragon fruit (Hylocereus spp.), also known as pitahaya, is an important fruit crop mainly used for table consumption, medicinal and industrial uses (Le Bellec and Vaillant, 2011). In India, it is cultivated in an area of about 3,084.6 ha in several states with production of approximately 12,113.4 tonnes of fruit every year (Wakchaure et al., 2021). Climate suitable regions for cultivation of dragon fruit in India were assessed by Srinivas Rao et al. (2021). Several fungal, bacterial and viral diseases are reported to attack the dragon fruit and affect both quality and quantity of the produce (Balendres and Bengoa, 2019). Diseases of dragon fruit, their etiology and current management options were reviewed by Balendres and Bengoa (2019) and reported recent increase in incidence of diseases worldwide. \r\nMonitoring of new and emerging pathogens is necessary due to the increase in cultivation of dragon fruit. Very little information is available with respect to damage caused by plant paras','Prasanna Holajjer, Bhaskar Bajaru, B. Parameswari, N. Sivaraj, M. Srinivas Rao and K. Anitha (2022). Pathogenicity and Reproductive Potential of Root-knot nematode, Meloidogyne incognita on Dragon Fruit (Hylocereus spp.). Biological Forum â€“ An Internati'),(4056,'118','Chemical control of wild darnnel (Lolium perenne L.) in the field of wheat (Triticum sativum)','Rahimi Hashem and Najafi Hossein','146 NAJAFI HOSSEIN.pdf','',1,'Herbicide control is now the merely option in wheat production in control of Lolium perenne because of the high level of infestation and the scarcity and cost of labor for hand rouging. In order to evaluate the effects of kind and dose of herbicide in control of darnnel and improvement of wheat yield, an experiment of factorial in the form of complete randomized block design with four replications was done in a field in saveh region. The first factor was four levels of herbicide, consists of Puma super, Topic, Showalie, and Total. The second factor, was three levels, consists of standard dose, standard dose + 25% extra, standard dose+ 50% extra. Results of this experiment showed that Total and Showalie can reduce some characters of darnnel such as number of plant, fresh and dry weight and height of darnnel more than puma super and Topic. Subsequently Tolal and Showalie were able improving agronomic characters of wheat such as plant density, fresh and dry weight and height of wheat and ','herbicide, darnnel, yield, dose of application.','According the results of interaction effect of herbicide and dose, Total and Showalie (recommended dose +25%) are the most appropriate treatment in decreasing L. perenne traits (density, fresh and dry weight ) and Improving wheat traits(yield, fresh and dry weight).','INTRODUCTION\r\nWheat production in world economy and role of it is significance both in terms of cultivated land and food supply, feeding and commerce (IstvÃ¡n). The largest crop area is devoted to wheat and the quantity produced is more than that of any other crop. This occupies about 17% of the worldâ€™s cropped land and contributes 35% of the staple food (Pingali and Mexico 1999). In 2010, wheat (Triticum sativum L.) was the second most important cereal crop after maize, and it is a staple food for billions of people of the world (Satorre and Slafer 1999). Grain yield loss in wheat by weeds is estimated to be 25% (Montazeri et al., 2005). Different methods, including agronomic practice, mechanical and chemical weed management have been reported, but one of the most important methods is chemical control so that without it crop yield will be decreased significantly due to weeds (Martin and Felton 1993). Chemical weed control seems indispensable and has proved efficient in controllin','Rahimi Hashem and Najafi Hossein (2015). Chemical control of wild darnnel (Lolium perenne L.) in the field of wheat (Triticum sativum) . Biological Forum â€“ An International Journal 7(2): 875-878. '),(4057,'112','Diversity in Bread Wheat genotypes (Triticum aestivum L.) deciphered by Multivariate Biplot analysis','Divya Phougat and Ajay Verma*','284 Diversity in Bread Wheat genotypes _Triticum aestivum L. deciphered by Multivariate Biplot analysis Ajay Verma.pdf','',1,'Assessment of diversity by multivariate biplot analysis has been established as prerequisite in any breeding program. Twenty seven wheat genotypes were evaluated at research farm of CCSHAU to assess the relative contribution of morphological and nutritional traits to the total variation in yield. Large values had observed for days to maturity, plant height, tillers per meter along with small values for protein contents, spike length, biological yield per plant traits. Maximum range exhibited by plant height, spikelets per spike, and tillers per meter whereas biological yield per plant, protein contents, harvest index achieved minimum range. Iron and Zinc contents showed more variations as observed by points corresponding to values expressed in radar chart. One genotype expressed largest value of spikelets per spike that may be an outlier for this set of genoypes. Number grians per ear exhinited more of variatons in values followed by grian yield per plant for studied genotypes. Traits','Diversity descriptive, correlation coefficient, Multivariate clustering, Biplot analysis','Grain yield and nutritive values had a positive correlation with number of tillers per plant, flag leaf area, plant height, ear length, grain weight per ear and thousand grain weight. Simultaneous selection diverse genotypes possessing morphological and nutritional traits will improve the grain quality and yield of wheat to sustain the nutritional security of Indian population. ','INTRODUCTION\r\nWheat, an important staple food crop, is preferred over rice and maize as a source of protein in low and middle income nations (Lakra et al., 2020). Being the staple food crop of many countries with diverse climatic conditions, wheat varieties must have enough variability to tolerate to pests, pathogens and abiotic stresses (Ali et al., 2021). Assessment of diversity is prerequisite in any breeding program as magnitude of the variability of collection is an indispensable assist for rice improvement strategies. Multivariate analyses such as cluster and principal component analysis measures the amount of genetic diversity in respect of several characters and assesses the relative contribution of morphological traits to the total variation in yield. Regular studies of diversity being conducted by breeders to evaluate and utilize the diversity of breeding germplasm, also to determine the uniqueness and distinctiveness among genotypes to safe guard a breeders intellectual pr','Divya Phougat and Ajay Verma (2022). Diversity in Bread Wheat genotypes (Triticum aestivum L.) deciphered by Multivariate Biplot analysis. Biological Forum â€“ An International Journal, 14(1): 1610-1616.'),(4058,'118','The Study of Nano-silica effects on qualitative and quantitative performance of potato (Solanum tuberosum L.)','Shiva Talebi, Ahmad Majd, Masoumeh Mirzai, SayehJafari and Masoumeh Abedini','147 SHIVA TALEBI.pdf','',1,'Nano-particles have entered widely into agriculture and biology world due to exclusive biological and Physico-chemical features. Plant interactions with nano-particles have been studied directly through many fertilizers, pesticides and herbicides based on nano-particles and indirectly through irrigation water contaminated with nano-particles. In this study, silicon effect as a useful element on quantitative and qualitative performance of potato crop was evaluated in form nano-silica. The experiments were performed in completely randomized block design with 3 replicates and in field conditions. For review was used of the concentration 0, 5mM of nano-silica in solution and spray forms. The results of comparing mean traits showed significant differences between treatment groups in chlorophyll b, soluble sugars of leaves and carotenoids. Although, it was not observed significant differences between treatment groups in terms of chlorophyll a amount, leaves insoluble sugars and protein, but ','nano-silica, sugar, protein, Chlorophyll, Solanum tuberosum L.','According to results of present research, nano-silica concentrations had statistically significant effect on the amount of chlorophyll b, carotenoids and soluble sugars at probability level of (P <0.05). Chlorophyll a amount, insoluble sugars of leaf and protein content did not show statistically significant difference of nano-silica application.\r\nThe results of study using silicon in cucumbers bushes, increased chlorophyll and photosynthetic activity of leaves, reduced petiole length and increased weight gain are consistent with study results (Jung Sup et al., 2000).\r\nNano-silica 5mM sprayed treatment showed the highest chlorophyll a amount compared to Nano- silica 5mM solution treatment and control groups, but this difference was not statistically significant. \r\nThe results of research was consistent with Agarie et al (1996) study results who showed that when silica is reduced, chlorophyll amount will be low as a result, plant photosynthesis will be reduced. They related the reason f','Nano-science technology of materials is at atomic and molecular level. The term is used for materials that their size is between 1 to 100 nm. Research in nanotechnology area has increased significantly in recent years. Although, exploitation of this technology potentials is ongoing in medical and pharmaceutical sciences, but using it in the protection of agricultural products has recently been considered. New tools for rapid molecular detection, cure diseases, enhance the ability of plants to absorb nutrients and special load transfer to a special site are examples of development in this new field of science (Alejandro et al., 2009).The production of nano-scale fertilizers is one of the applications of this technology and has more easy absorption due to large surface area and high density of reactive surfaces and is more effective than conventional chemical fertilizers (Anonymous, 2009). Since the plant cell wall acts as a barrier to easy entry of foreign agents into plant cells, nano-','Shiva Talebi, Ahmad Majd, Masoumeh Mirzai, SayehJafari and Masoumeh Abedini (2015). The Study of Nano-silica effects on qualitative and quantitative performance of potato (Solanum tuberosum L.) . Biological Forum â€“ An International Journal 7(2): 879-88'),(4059,'118','Effect of Phenolic Compounds as Antioxidant on Cell Oxidation: A Review','Hooshyar Ghafory, Vahid Yousefinejad, Kourosh Mohammadi and Muhammad Piri','148 VAHID YOUSEFINEJAD @ FORD.pdf','',1,'Research on the effects of dietary polyphenols on human health has developed considerably in the past decade. It strongly supports a role for polyphenols in the prevention of degenerative diseases, particularly cardiovascular diseases and cancers. The antioxidant properties of polyphenols have been widely studied, but it has become clear that the mechanisms of action of polyphenols go beyond the modulation of oxidative stress. So, this review paper was using the paper from PubMed to investigate the \"Polyphenols: antioxidants and beyond\". Additionally, in this paper we tried to investigate medical properties of polyphenols against diseases.','Phenolic compounds, Antioxidant, Oxidation','A considerable body of literature supports a role for oxidative stress in the pathogenesis of age-related human diseases and a contribution of dietary polyphenols to their prevention. The complex relationships between antioxidant status and disease are still poorly understood and have been studied intensively. More likely, cells respond to polyphenols mainly through direct interactions with receptors or enzymes involved in signal transduction, which may result in modification of the redox status of the cell and may trigger a series of redox-dependent reactions. Both antioxidant and pro-oxidant effects of polyphenols have been described, with contrasting effects on cell physiologic processes.','For million years, humankind is completely dependent on plants as source of carbohydrates, proteins and fats for food and shelter. In addition, plants are a valuable source of a wide range of secondary metabolites, which are used as pharmaceuticals, agrochemicals, flavours, fragrances, colours, biopesticides and food additives. The number of known chemical structures is estimated to be nearly fourfold greater than that in the microbial kingdom. The United State market sales of medicinal plant have risen up about US$ 3 billion per year (Ramachandra Rao and Ravishankar, 2002). During growth and maturation period in plants some substances can be found in structure of them which they have essential role in plant fortune. These substances called plants secondary metabolites (Hagerman and Buther, 1981; Hassanpour et al, 2011). It has been suggested that accumulation of secondary compounds in plants is dependent upon photosynthetic capacity, season, rain and temperature (Mooney et al, 1975). ',' Hooshyar Ghafory, Vahid Yousefinejad, Kourosh Mohammadi and Muhammad Piri (2015). Effect of Phenolic Compounds as Antioxidant on Cell Oxidation: A Review. Biological Forum â€“ An International Journal 7(2): 884-887. '),(4060,'118','Assessment Cropping System on Monitoring Cadmium Concentration in Topsoil and Seed Wheat','Khoshnaz Payandeh, Alireza Jafarnejadi, Ali Gholami, Alireza Shokohfar and Ebrahim Panahpor\r\n','149 ALIREZA JAFARNEJADI @ DR KIYANI.pdf','',1,'Soil pollution with heavy metals such as cadmium leads to accumulation of these elements in plant tissues and causes the loss of quality and quantity of agricultural products and ultimately will threaten humans and animals health. This research aimed to assess the effects of cropping system and different growth stage on soil cadmium concentration and wheat grain. It was carried out as a split plot in time experiment based randomized complete block design with three replications at 2014-2015. The main factor included two cropping systems (wheat-rice, fallow-wheat) and the sub factor included growth stages (tillering, flowering, and maturity). The results showed effect of cropping systems and different growth stage on concentration of total cadmium and absorbable cadmium was significant at 1% probability level. Rice-wheat cropping system, due to high consumption of non-standard phosphate fertilizers (containing cadmium) and higher phosphorus concentrations (10.90 mg.kg-1), as well as mor','Cropping System, Cadmium, Monitoring, Rice, Wheat. ','Knowing the factors affecting the solubility and bioavailability of pollutants particularly cadmium in agricultural lands is very essential. The mean concentrations of total cadmium and absorbable cadmium of studied soils were more than the permitted limits in most countries which indicates the risk of contamination with cadmium in such areas. \r\n \r\n\r\nWith regard to concentration of soil phosphorus it seems that the consumption of phosphorus fertilizers during the last three decades has led to the accumulation of cadmium over the permitted limit in soil and grain of cultivated crops in the lands under study. In general, due to some factors such as further consumption of phosphate fertilizers, high level of groundwater in rice cultivating conditions (deficiency of drainage system), complex formation with organic materials, return of rice residues (containing cadmium) into the soil and further salinity of soil in rice planting conditions, the accumulation of cadmium in soil and grain yiel','Soil pollution with heavy metals leads to accumulation of these elements in plant tissues and reduces the quality and quantity of agricultural products and threatens humans and animals health (Liu et al., 2010). Heavy metals are a group of metals with a density greater than 5g.cm-3, which are the most important environmental pollutants (Ji et al., 2014). The toxicity of these metals nowadays has become an increasing specific problem to food ecology and the environment (Benavides et al., 2005). The level of phosphate fertilizer consumption is one of the main sources of soil contamination (Amini, 2005). Studies have shown that wheat especially durum cultivar is able to absorb cadmium more than other grains (rye, barley, oats) (Jansson, 2002). In Khuzestan Province wheat is cultivated in more than 400000 hectares and due to low availability of soil nutrients (such as phosphorus) chemical fertilizers such as triple superphosphate have been used in this area for agricultural production for ','Khoshnaz Payandeh, Alireza Jafarnejadi, Ali Gholami, Alireza Shokohfar and Ebrahim Panahpor (2015). Assessment Cropping System on Monitoring Cadmium Concentration in Topsoil and Seed Wheat. Biological Forum â€“ An International Journal 7(2): 888-894.');
INSERT INTO `pdf_upload` VALUES (4061,'118','Effect of Mycorrhiza and Azotobacter on Concentration of Macroelements and Root Colonization Percentage in Different Cultivars of Wheat (Triticum aestivum L.).','Behrooz Amraei, Mohammad Reza Ardakani, Masoud Rafiei, Farzad Paknejad and Farhad Rejali\r\n','150 MOHAMMAD REZA ARDAKANI.pdf','',1,'To study effect of biofertilizers include Mycorrhiza and Azotobacter on concentration of nutrition elements and root colonization percentage in different cultivars of wheat (Triticum aestivum L.) An experiment was conducted in the crop years 2014-2015 in Lorestan Province, Iranas a factorial experiment in the form of a randomized complete block design with four replications. Effects of three factors were studied include Mycorrhiza, Azotobacter and Different Cultivars of Rainfed wheat. Four characteristics include percentage of root colonization, percentage of protein, nitrogen, phosphorus and potassium were studied during this experiment. Positive impact of biofertilizers was observed in most of the studied traits. The results showed that the effects of Azotobacter and cultivars was significant on all traits. Also interaction of Azotobacter Ã— Mycorrhiza had significant effects on all studied traits. The results indicated effective function of bio-fertilizers in improving of plant grow','Mycorrhiza, Azotobacter, nutrient absorption, Wheat.','Positive impact of biofertilizers was observed in most of the studied traits. All studied characteristics include root colonization percentage, percentage of protein, nitrogen, phosphorus and potassium increased after using of biofertilizers. Results of this study identified that applying of Mycorrhiza and Azotobacter lead to aggregation of organic material in soil, plant root development and more access to nutrient elements. In order to the present study it concluded that the application of Azotobacter of and Mycorrhiza had positive effect on absorption nutrient elements by plant. Due to its ease of use as well as the low prices and positive effects on yield, application of biofertilizers is one of the best sustainable methods in agriculture.','Wheat (Triticum aestivum L.) is one of the most important agricultural products which is most needed around the world (Smith et al. 2004). In order to increase agricultural production, unsustainable methods such as using of chemical fertilizers are using. As result of using these chemical inputs, environmental pollution especially soil and water pollution have increased during last decade which had catastrophic effects on human safety and respectively (AmirAbadi et al. 2009). Biofertilizers as a hopeful way in agricultural nutrition has been appeared in sustainable agriculture (Faheed and Abad-El Fatha 2008). Sustainable agriculture is an economical dynamic system which improve environmental protection and increase efficiency of using of natural resources for agricultural production. Also sustainable agriculture have important function in supplying of food sources and developing welfare in human society. One of the important key in sustainable agriculture is using of biofertilizers in ','Behrooz Amraei, Mohammad Reza Ardakani, Masoud Rafiei, Farzad Paknejad and Farhad Reja (2015). Effect of Mycorrhiza and Azotobacter on Concentration of Macroelements and Root Colonization Percentage in Different Cultivars of Wheat (Triticum aestivum L.)'),(4062,'118','Evaluation of Selection Intensity of Acetolactate Synthase-Inhibitor Herbicide Resistance Endowing Asp-376-Glu Mutation in Sinapis arvensis Biotype','Ashkan Bahmani, Ahmad Naderi, Eskandar Zand, Mahmoud Masumi\r\nand Shahram Lack\r\n','151 AHMAD NADERI @ DR KIYANI.pdf','',1,'In current study we estimated ecological measures of Acetolactate synthase herbicide resistance evolution at lower than recommended dose in Sinapis arvensis herbicide resistance (HR) homozygous for Asp-376-Glu mutation and herbicide susceptible (HS) biotypes collected from wheat fields in Fars Province, Iran. At low herbicide doses of mesosulfuron + iodosulfuron plants can survive and display quantitative variation in dose-responses. LD50 and GR50 values represented 5.4 and 3-fold ALS resistant than susceptible biotypes. Seed number production per plant showed 3- fold resistance. Linear combination of survival and fecundity values, showed 1 and 0.74 fitness values for (HR) and (HS) biotypes respectively when exposed to the low-dose of 187 g ha-1. With double increasing from 187 to 375 g ha-1 herbicides, fitness decreased by 8-fold in (HS) biotype but reduced slightly by 20% in (HR) biotype. The selection intensity of (HR) at 375 and 187 g ha-1 were 9 and 1.4 respectively. Overall, it i','ALS herbicide resistance, fecundity, fitness, selection intensity, Sinapis arvensis.','The practical implication of this study is that mesosulfuron + iodosulfuron should be used at rates that cause very high target weed mortality. \r\nThus minimizing the accumulation of weak resistance gene traits (homozygous Asp- 376-Glu) in target weed populations, especially, in S. arvensis as a cross-pollinated weed species. However, when used in conjunction with other management strategies, it can be quite effective in reducing fecundity, survival and finally fitness of Asp- 376-Glu herbicide resistant weeds. The estimation of plant survival and seed number is an ecological factor for determination of herbicide resistance evolution.\r\n','Weeds are considerable threat to food security (Oerke, 2006). In most agro-ecosystems worldwide, herbicides are the potent technology used for the weeds control (Heap, 2014). Acetohydroxyacid synthase (AHAS) also referred to as acetolactate synthase (ALS), is the first enzyme in biosynthesis of branched-chain, essential amino acids valine, leucine and isoleucine (McCourt & Duggleby 2006). Also, ALS is target site of chemical group of sulfonylurea herbicides. Nearly, less than 10 years after first introduction of ALS inhibitor herbicides in the early 1980s, herbicide resistance to this group of herbicide was reported in Lactuca serriola (Mallory et al., 1990).In the case of target-site resistance, at least single point mutations in the target gene reduce herbicide sensitivity (Heap, 2014).\r\nUp to now a total of eight conserved amino acid residue (122, 205, 197, 376, 377, 574, 653 and 654) in the ALS gene have been detected in resistant weed biotypes (Powels & Yu, 2010; Beckie & Tardif','Ashkan Bahmani, Ahmad Naderi, Eskandar Zand, Mahmoud Masumi\r\nand Shahram Lack (2015). Evaluation of Selection Intensity of Acetolactate Synthase-Inhibitor Herbicide Resistance Endowing Asp-376-Glu Mutation in Sinapis arvensis Biotype. Biological Forum â€'),(4063,'118','Growth and Photosynthesis Responses of Safflower Cultivars to Water Stress at two Developmental Stages','Seyed Abdolreza Kazemeini, Samaneh Mohamadi and Hadi Pirasteh-Anosheh','154 SEYED ABDOLREZA KAZEMEINI @ HADI PIRASTEH-ANOSHEH.pdf','',1,'In a 2-year field study, effect of water deficit at different growth stages was examined on growth, oil, yield, and photosynthesis traits of two safflower cultivars at Shiraz University. Two cultivars were Sina and Isfahan as main-plot; water deficit was imposed at four levels (100%, 80%, 60% and 40% FC) as sub-plot and at two development stages (vegetative and reproductive) as sub sub-plot. The results showed that time and the level of water deficit significantly affected plant height, grain number per plant, seed oil percentage, thousand grain weight, biological yield and grain yield, as well as photosynthesis traits consisted of stomatal conductance, photosynthesis rate and substomatal CO2 concentration. The reductive effect of water deficit was closely related to its intensity. The highest and the lowest sensitivities to water stress were observed in grain number and thousand grain weight, respectively. According to the cultivars\' responses to water deficit, it seems that Sina is m','Drought, oil percentage, stomatal conductance.\r\n \r\n','In a 2-year field study, effect of water deficit at different growth stages was examined on growth, oil, yield, and photosynthesis traits of two safflower cultivars at Shiraz University. Two cultivars were Sina and Isfahan as main-plot; water deficit was imposed at four levels (100%, 80%, 60% and 40% FC) as sub-plot and at two development stages (vegetative and reproductive) as sub sub-plot. The results showed that time and the level of water deficit significantly affected plant height, grain number per plant, seed oil percentage, thousand grain weight, biological yield and grain yield, as well as photosynthesis traits consisted of stomatal conductance, photosynthesis rate and substomatal CO2 concentration. The reductive effect of water deficit was closely related to its intensity. The highest and the lowest sensitivities to water stress were observed in grain number and thousand grain weight, respectively. According to the cultivars\' responses to water deficit, it seems that Sina is m','Among the different abiotic stresses, water deficit is the constraint that induces a highly negative impact on safflower production and growth. In response to water deficit, crops revealed wide range of manner, varying from great sensitivity to high tolerance (Eslam et al., 2010). Water stress influenced growth and yield that depended to species and variety. Moreover, sensitivity to drought varies by development stage. Water deficit stress at any stage of crop growth can cause an irreversible loss in yield potential (Pirasteh-Anosheh et al., 2013; Kazemeini et al., 2014).\r\nAll crops response differently in different growth stages to changing water status of the soil under deficit irrigation. It means that plants are more sensitive to water deficit at one or more stages than the other stages (Istanbulluoglu et al., 2009). These sensitive stages are during flowering and boll formation stages in cotton, during vegetative growth of soybean, flowering and grain filling stages of wheat, vege','Seyed Abdolreza Kazemeini, Samaneh Mohamadi and Hadi Pirasteh-Anosheh (2015). Growth and Photosynthesis Responses of Safflower Cultivars to Water Stress at two Developmental Stages. Biological Forum â€“ An International Journal 7(2): 923-929. '),(4064,'118','Determining the Interrelationship between Macaque Population and Land Cover/ Use Type in Delhi, Using Line Transect Method','Pritha Acharya, Ambrina Sardar and Santanu Ray','155 PRITHA ACHARYA.pdf','',1,'Movement ecology has now become a significant topic for discussion. With the changing environment and climatic conditions, there are several factors that work for the movement of all type and size of organisms. These changes in animals are sometimes observed positive and sometimes it is negative in terms of their behavior and intra-specific interaction. The following study investigates the impact of changing land use pattern in relation between green cover and migratory ecology of monkeys, to understand the factors that affect their ecological movement and behavioral aspects. The research work also comprise of the analytical study of the approaches that were used for the sampling and study of monkeys. The project has a progressive look and is based on both comparative and a collection of secondary as well as primary data. It identifies the concepts that could be applied to the migration of the monkeys into the urbanized areas. The study also establishes the facts that determine paramet','Movement Ecology, primates, man-monkey conflicts, behavioral ecology, urbanization, line transect method','Land cover is a term used for the physical materials present on the surface of the Earth, it states how much region is covered with vegetation, wildlife, agriculture etc. whereas, land use defines the purpose the land serves, or how people are using that land. The land may be a wildlife habitat, recreation ground, urban gardens, agricultural farms etc. Ecological movement or movement ecology is that branch of ecology that deals with the concept of movement of individuals as well as a collection of individuals. According to Ran Nathan (2008), movement ecology is a scientific paradigm, which places movement as the focal theme. It aims at developing theories regarding the movement of organisms, thus helps in understanding the cause, and consequences of all the phenomena related to movement. Ethology or behavioral ecology is a part of ecology that deals with the behavioral responses of animals. \r\n\r\n\r\nA. Indian primates\r\nMonkeys belong to the infraorder Anthropoidea, and are divided into t','Land cover is a term used for the physical materials present on the surface of the Earth, it states how much region is covered with vegetation, wildlife, agriculture etc. whereas, land use defines the purpose the land serves, or how people are using that land. The land may be a wildlife habitat, recreation ground, urban gardens, agricultural farms etc. Ecological movement or movement ecology is that branch of ecology that deals with the concept of movement of individuals as well as a collection of individuals. According to Ran Nathan (2008), movement ecology is a scientific paradigm, which places movement as the focal theme. It aims at developing theories regarding the movement of organisms, thus helps in understanding the cause, and consequences of all the phenomena related to movement. Ethology or behavioral ecology is a part of ecology that deals with the behavioral responses of animals. \r\n\r\n\r\nA. Indian primates\r\nMonkeys belong to the infraorder Anthropoidea, and are divided into t','Pritha Acharya, Ambrina Sardar and Santanu Ray. (2015). Determining the Interrelationship between Macaque Population and Land Cover/ Use Type in Delhi, Using Line Transect Method. Biological Forum â€“ An International Journal 7(2): 930-943.'),(4065,'118','Variability and Association Grain Weight with Grain size (and shape) and grain quality, and stepwise Regression analysis on thousand grain weight in Iranian Durum Wheat Landraces','Moslem Abdipour, Mohsen Ebrahimi, Ali Izadi-Darbandi, Anna Maria Mastrangelo, Goodarz Najafian and Yousef Arshad\r\n','156 MOSLEM ABDIPOUR.pdf','',1,'Grain weight and quality in durum wheat, greatly influence by grain morphology and grain protein content (GPC). In order to detection of phenotypic diversity level and relations between thousand grain weight (TGW), grain size (and shape) and grain quality, a collection of 79 durum wheat landraces from different geographic regions of Iran was used across two years (2013-15). A high-throughput method was used to capture grain size and shape. The high level of variation was observed with significant differences (P <0.001) among genotypes for all traits. A moderate to high broad sense heritability was found for all traits and ranged between 0.70 and 0.93 for grain yield and width, respectively. Grain weight significantly correlated with grain morphology (with exception of aspect ratio (AR) and roundness) and GPC. It can be a result of durum wheat landraces with high grain yield and high grain protein. By taking TGW as dependent variable a six variables regression model, including grain vol','Durum wheat, Triricum turgidum, TGW, Grain size and shape, Grain quality','Durum wheat (Triticum turgidum L. var. durum) because of features related to responses to abiotic stress has promoted its spread in semiarid environments better than any other cultivated wheat. Now, it as well-adapted crop to the Mediterranean regions is the main source of semolina for the production of pasta, bagel, couscous and other Mediterranean local end-products (Russo et al. 2014). Always increasing the yield potential of wheat has been a major focus of most wheat breeding programs around the world. Since the introduction of reduced height (Rht) into wheat varieties in the 1960s, wheat production has experienced a tremendous yield increase. However, the breeding gains in wheat yield have substantially slowed in recent years due to the lack of \'breakthrough\' germplasms and breeding methodologies (Jia et al. 2013). Basically, grain yield is a complex trait and usually controlled by a number of quantitative trait loci (QTL) with minor effects. It is also influenced by environmental','Durum wheat (Triticum turgidum L. var. durum) because of features related to responses to abiotic stress has promoted its spread in semiarid environments better than any other cultivated wheat. Now, it as well-adapted crop to the Mediterranean regions is the main source of semolina for the production of pasta, bagel, couscous and other Mediterranean local end-products (Russo et al. 2014). Always increasing the yield potential of wheat has been a major focus of most wheat breeding programs around the world. Since the introduction of reduced height (Rht) into wheat varieties in the 1960s, wheat production has experienced a tremendous yield increase. However, the breeding gains in wheat yield have substantially slowed in recent years due to the lack of \'breakthrough\' germplasms and breeding methodologies (Jia et al. 2013). Basically, grain yield is a complex trait and usually controlled by a number of quantitative trait loci (QTL) with minor effects. It is also influenced by environmental','Moslem Abdipour, Mohsen Ebrahimi, Ali Izadi-Darbandi, Anna Maria Mastrangelo, Goodarz Najafian and Yousef Arshad (2015). Variability and Association Grain Weight with Grain size (and shape) and grain quality, and stepwise Regression analysis on thousand g'),(4066,'118','Effect of Pre-harvest Foliar Application of Benzyl adenine and Salicylic acid on Carnation cv. Spray and Standard','Anita Ramtin, Sepideh Kalatejari*, Roohangiz Naderi and Mohammad Matinizadeh','157 ANITA RAMTIN.pdf','',1,'Carnation is one of the popular cut flowers that due to short vase life and loss of quality prove postharvest problems. In this research, effect of salicylic acid (SA) and benzyl adenine pre-harvest spraying on morphological traits of carnation has been investigated. The experimental design was a factorial experiment in form of CRD design with three replications. During this experiment effects of spraying plant growth regulators with different concentrations and different cultivars of carnation as two factors were studied (salicylic acid 50 ÂµM, salicylic acid 100 ÂµM, salicylic acid 200, benzyl adenine 50 ÂµM, benzyl adenine 100 ÂµM, benzyl adenine 150 ÂµM, and control) and different cultivars (spray, and standard Results of this study revealed that applying of salicylic acid increased vase life cut carnations and increased total length of plants and benzyl adenine lead to all studied traits. In order to the current study it concluded that the spraying benzyl adenine 50 ÂµM was the mo','carnation, vase life, pre-harvest, vase solution, salicylic acid, benzyl adenine','Positive impact of plant hormones was detected in most of the studied traits. All studied characteristics include water content, dry weight, vase life, total length, floret length, floret diameter by spraying plant hormones before harvesting. Results of this study revealed that applying of salicylic acid increased vase life cut carnations and increased total length of plants and benzyl adenine lead to all studied traits. In order to the current study it concluded that the spraying benzyl adenine 50 ÂµM was the most effective treatment on all of traits. Due to the increase of use and positive effects on morphological parameters, spraying of benzyl adenine and salicylic acid are one of the best methods in floriculture.','Carnation (Dianthus caryophyllus L.) is one of the world\'s most popular cut flower. The magnitude of this ornamental flower is due to its attractiveness, first-rate quality, and wide range of different forms (Kharrazi et al., 2011). Carnation, in the family Caryophyllaceae, can be found in anextensive diversity of colors and is a model system for studies of flower senescence. In addition, it is one of the most important flowers in the world wide floriculture commerce, and hundreds of cultivars of carnation are grown everywhere in the world. Dianthus is a genus that has about 300 species in the Caryophyllaceae family (Tanase et al., 2012). Accordingly, it is one of the largest genera of vascular plants in the world. The Dianthus species originated in the northern temperate areas of Europe, Asia, North America, and North Africa and are also growing in Mediterranean coastal regions (Behroozian, et al., 2013). Several species, including Dianthus caryophyllus, D. barbatus, D. chinensi','Anita Ramtin, Sepideh Kalatejari*, Roohangiz Naderi and Mohammad Matinizadeh (2015). Effect of Pre-harvest Foliar Application of Benzyl adenine and Salicylic acid on Carnation cv. Spray and Standard. Biological Forum â€“ An International Journal 7(2): 95'),(4067,'118','Effects of Management of Agronomical Factors on Sugar Beet Steckling Production and growth index','Hosein Nikpanah, Saeed Seifzadeh, Saeed Sadeghzadeh Hemayati , Amirhosein Shiranirad and Dariush Fathollah Taleghani\r\n','158 HOSEIN NIKPANAH.pdf','',1,'This experiment was conducted in sugar beet seed research station of Firoozkooh to Evaluation of Effects of management of agronomical factors on Sugar Beet Steckling Production and growth index during in 2012-2013 growing seasons. The experiment design was a split plot factorial with a randomized complete block arrangement and four replications. Treatments consisted of three sowing dates (1 July, 20 July, 13 August) as main plots and four plant densities (10, 20, 30 and 40 plants per square meter) and three levels of nitrogen (25% less than optimum, optimum and 25% higher than optimal) factorial were subplots. Nitrogen treatments based on soil testing in first year included three net nitrogen 197.6, 247, and 296.4 kg N ha-1 and 180, 225 and 270 kg N ha-1 in second year being split into two stages of early in the growing season and one month after the first stage. A logistic and an expoliner model were used for describing the leaf area variation pattern and the dry matter versus timin','Sowing date; plant densities; nitrogen; Steckling','This experiment was conducted in sugar beet seed research station of Firoozkooh to Evaluation of Effects of management of agronomical factors on Sugar Beet Steckling Production and growth index during in 2012-2013 growing seasons. The experiment design was a split plot factorial with a randomized complete block arrangement and four replications. Treatments consisted of three sowing dates (1 July, 20 July, 13 August) as main plots and four plant densities (10, 20, 30 and 40 plants per square meter) and three levels of nitrogen (25% less than optimum, optimum and 25% higher than optimal) factorial were subplots. Nitrogen treatments based on soil testing in first year included three net nitrogen 197.6, 247, and 296.4 kg N ha-1 and 180, 225 and 270 kg N ha-1 in second year being split into two stages of early in the growing season and one month after the first stage. A logistic and an expoliner model were used for describing the leaf area variation pattern and the dry matter versus timin','Sugar beet is one of the most important industrial plants in Ardebil province. Products derived from this plant have been used. Due to the increased use of chemical fertilizers are used too much product. Therefore, it is important to know the proper use of supplements. To protect farmland and prevent poisoning Soil is important Fertilizer is considered as a limiting factor for obtaining high yield and quality (Ouda, 2002). Yield potential of sugar beet (Beta vulgaris L.) depends upon several factors. Intensity of solar radiation intercepted by the canopy, temperatures at critical stages of growth, and distribution of precipitation are the main limiting growth factors (Kenter et al., 2006). It is well documented that N is the nutrient limiting the most sugar beet productivity (Hergert, 2010). Sugar beet yield and quality are dramatically influenced by the level of available N. Residual and fertilizer N levels allowing adequate top growth and maximize root growth and extractable sucrose ','Hosein Nikpanah, Saeed Seifzadeh, Saeed Sadeghzadeh Hemayati , Amirhosein Shiranirad and Dariush Fathollah Taleghani (2015). Effects of Management of Agronomical Factors on Sugar Beet Steckling Production and growth index. Biological Forum â€“ An Interna'),(4068,'118','Life history of Eurema laeta (Boisduval, 1836) (Lepidoptera: Pieridae) from Solan, Himachal Pradesh, India','Saveena Bogtapa, Avtar Kaur Sidhu and Jagbir Singh Kirti','159 SAVEENA BOGTAPA.pdf','',1,'The life cycle of Eurema laeta (Boisduval, 1836) has been studied for the first time in details at Solan, Himachal Pradesh. The larvae of the species are found on the plant Cassia pumila Lamk. (Fabaceae: Caesalpiniaceae). The species occurs in two distinct seasonal forms. The durations and dimensions of various life history stages have been discussed besides studying the different behaviours including mating, ovipositing and mud puddling.','Eurema laeta, Pieridae, life history, seasonal dimorphism, behaviour.','The life cycle of Eurema laeta (Boisduval, 1836) has been studied for the first time in details at Solan, Himachal Pradesh. The larvae of the species are found on the plant Cassia pumila Lamk. (Fabaceae: Caesalpiniaceae). The species occurs in two distinct seasonal forms. The durations and dimensions of various life history stages have been discussed besides studying the different behaviours including mating, ovipositing and mud puddling. ','INTRODUCTION\r\nEurema laeta (Boisduval, 1836), commonly called spotless grass yellow, is a species of hills as well as plains and distributed in all over India, Nepal, Bhutan, Bangladesh, Pakistan, Sri Lanka, Myanmar (Bell, 1909; Evans, 1932; Wynter-Blyth, 1957; Varshney, 1993; Kunte, 2005; Kehimker, 2008; Singh, 2011). Eurema laeta has two subspecies in India: E. laeta laeta Boisduval, 1836 distributed in Northwestern part and E. laeta sikkima Moore, 1906 in eastern part of Indian Himalaya. Although, the distributional record of this species is almost known but the data on their life cycle and larval food plants has been very less described so far. Presently, this species is studied for the first time from Solan, Himachal Pradesh where its larvae have been observed to infest the Cassia pumila (Chamaecrista pumila) Lamk. (Fabaceae: Caesalpiniaceae). It is a perennial herb that is widespread in the grasslands. The detailed account of various life history stages, seasonal variations and t','Saveena Bogtapa, Avtar Kaur Sidhu and Jagbir Singh Kirti (2015). Life history of Eurema laeta (Boisduval, 1836) (Lepidoptera: Pieridae) from Solan, Himachal Pradesh, India .Biological Forum â€“ An International Journal 7(2): 965-969.'),(4069,'118','Evaluation of chickpea genotypes for callus induction using mature embryo culture','Azar Garosi, Ezatollah Farshadfar, and Mohammad Mahdi Jowkar','160 EZATOLLAH FARSHADFAR.pdf','',1,'Various attributes of chickpea made it the most cultivated pulse crop, and the most appreciated protein source among vegetarians all over the world. Efficient plant regeneration from cultured cells and tissues is required for the successful application of biotechnology in crop improvement. Therefore, this study was performed in order to evaluate the reaction of 11 chickpea genotypes to callus induction. Studied traits were: callus growth, callus water content, percentage of callus induction, callus diameter, callus fresh weight and dry weight. The results of analysis of variance showed significant differences (P<0.01) among the genotypes for callus diameter, percentage of callus induction, callus fresh weight and dry weight. Mean comparison indicated that the most desirable genotypes for callus induction were genotypes 5 and 8 and the weakest genotypes were 6 and 7. Based on the traits investigated, cluster analysis was done. The genotypes were classified in four categories. The re','Chickpea, callus induction, mature embryos','Various attributes of chickpea made it the most cultivated pulse crop, and the most appreciated protein source among vegetarians all over the world. Efficient plant regeneration from cultured cells and tissues is required for the successful application of biotechnology in crop improvement. Therefore, this study was performed in order to evaluate the reaction of 11 chickpea genotypes to callus induction. Studied traits were: callus growth, callus water content, percentage of callus induction, callus diameter, callus fresh weight and dry weight. The results of analysis of variance showed significant differences (P<0.01) among the genotypes for callus diameter, percentage of callus induction, callus fresh weight and dry weight. Mean comparison indicated that the most desirable genotypes for callus induction were genotypes 5 and 8 and the weakest genotypes were 6 and 7. Based on the traits investigated, cluster analysis was done. The genotypes were classified in four categories. The re','INTRODUCTION\r\nChickpea (Cicer arietinum L.), a member of grain legume group, is favoured all over the world for its high seed protein content. Chickpea is the most important legume in Iran and includes nearly 84% of the food legume with 17-24% protein, 41-51% carbohydrates, high percentage of other mineral nutrients and unsaturated linoleic andoleic acid (Farshadfar and Farshadfar, 2008). The tissue culture method is a novel approach, and the main idea is that cultivated cells are used as the selection units rather than whole plants (Butenko and Kuchku, 1979). The insertion of in vitro tissue culture techniques in a breeding program offers considerable opportunities for genetic improvement of plants by saving space and time required by conventional methods (Ortiz,1998). The utilisation of biotechnology in plant breeding is largely dependent on callus induction and subsequent plant regeneration from various explant sources. The success in this process is affected predominantly by genoty','Azar Garosi, Ezatollah Farshadfar, and Mohammad Mahdi Jowkar (2015).Evaluation of chickpea genotypes for callus induction using mature embryo culture. Biological Forum â€“ An International Journal 7(2): 970-974. '),(4070,'118','Effect of Pesticides used in Tomato Fields of Iran on the Egg Parasitoid Trichogramma brassicae (Hymenoptera: Trichogrammatidae) under Laboratory Conditions','Fariba Sohrabi and Effat Amini','161 FARIBA SOHRABI.pdf','',1,'Toxicity of selected insecticides and fungicides on different developmental stages of the egg parasitoid Trichogramma brassicae Bezdenko (Hymenoptera: Trichogrammatidae), were investigated in the laboratory. Persistent toxicity of selected pesticides on the adult stage of parasitoid was also determined. The insecticides cypermethrin, chlorpyrifos, imidacloprid, and indoxacarb had a significant adverse effect on the immature stages of the parasitoid. Among the tested fungicide, benomyl appear to be toxic to the pupal stage of T. brassiace. However, the other tested fungicide, mancozeb, chlorotalonil, and iprodione + carbendazim did not affect the preimaginal stages of the parasitoid. The results of the tests revealed that all the tested fungicides caused high mortality to adult wasps. The results of the persistency test showed that all pesticides were â€œmoderately persistentâ€ except chlorpyrifos that was classified as â€œpersistentâ€. The implications of these results for the integr','Bioassay; Trichogramma brassicae; fungicide; insecticide; toxicity','Toxicity of selected insecticides and fungicides on different developmental stages of the egg parasitoid Trichogramma brassicae Bezdenko (Hymenoptera: Trichogrammatidae), were investigated in the laboratory. Persistent toxicity of selected pesticides on the adult stage of parasitoid was also determined. The insecticides cypermethrin, chlorpyrifos, imidacloprid, and indoxacarb had a significant adverse effect on the immature stages of the parasitoid. Among the tested fungicide, benomyl appear to be toxic to the pupal stage of T. brassiace. However, the other tested fungicide, mancozeb, chlorotalonil, and iprodione + carbendazim did not affect the preimaginal stages of the parasitoid. The results of the tests revealed that all the tested fungicides caused high mortality to adult wasps. The results of the persistency test showed that all pesticides were â€œmoderately persistentâ€ except chlorpyrifos that was classified as â€œpersistentâ€. The implications of these results for the integr','Biological control by natural enemies represents an important component of integrated pest management (IPM) programs. Some species of parasitoid genus Trichogramma are important egg parasitoids that have been reared and released for controlling insect pests in different cropping systems (Smith 1996; Moezipour et al. 2008). Trichogramma brassicae Bezdenko (Hym.: Trichogrammatidae) is the most common species in Iran and used for inundative releases in biological control programs against Helicoverpa armigera Hubner and other lepidopteran eggs in tomato cropping systems. \r\nChemical control is the primary strategy in many agronomic and vegetable cropping systems (Palumbo et al. 2001). However, use of pesticides incompatible with natural enemies has caused some adverse effects such as target pest resurgence and secondary pest outbreaks. Therefore, evaluation of the impact of chemicals on biological control agents is important to promote integrated pest control methods. \r\nThroughout Iran, to','Fariba Sohrabi and Effat Amini (2015). Effect of Pesticides used in Tomato Fields of Iran on the Egg Parasitoid Trichogramma brassicae (Hymenoptera: Trichogrammatidae) under Laboratory Conditions.Biological Forum â€“ An International Journal 7(2): 975-98'),(4071,'118','Biological adsorption of chromium from aqueous solutions using crude meal canola for repeated use as irrigation water for agricultural land','Roya Moradi and Pegah Dadras Mostafa Khezri','163 ROYA MORADI.pdf','',1,'Bio adsorption, a relatively new process has the ability and potential in the field of removal of pollutants in aquatic environments has been shown in various studies It is highly important to eliminate chromium 6(VI) which is a poisonous metal and potentially harmful for human beings. Considering different physical and chemical methods to eliminate it, adsorption is one of most effective and most prevalent methods in aqueous solutions. Moreover taking advantages of cost-effective bio adsorbents to improve and develop bio adsorption process is so much recommended. Following immerging modern industries, heavy metals are extracted and used as components more than a century. Waste water of Chromium plating industry is one of the most important sources of these heavy metals and leads into its diffusion. Today, bio adsorbents are being studied to resolve this issue. Effective parameters such as pH, contact time of bio adsorbent and initial concentration of metal are consistent variables and','Canola meal, Adsorption, Atomic Absorption, Langmuir, Heavy metals.','The result of isotherm equations shows that the crude canola meal is highly absorptive for chromium 6(VI). Findings clearly show that the crude canola sample had 54 percent of adsorption where the pH was 7 the contact time was 60 minutes and the solution concentration was 100mlg/l. this natural product is potentially high adsorptive. Referring to adsorption isotherm of chromium 6(VI) fig. 5 and based on Longmire model in aquatic solutions with concentrations of chromium 6(VI) between 12.5 gr/l to 200 gr/l , pH 7, contact time 60 minutes and 0.150 mass the value of q is equal to 0.0256 and b is equal 20 2000.Based on frundlich model Fig. 6 the adsorption of chromium 6(VI) isotherm by using the crude canola meal in aquatic solutions with concentrations of chromium 6(VI) between 12.5 gr/l to 200 gr/l , pH 7, contact time 60 minutes and 0.150 mass the value of n was equal to 2.89 and the value of K was 1166.66 these show a good capacity of adsorption which is expected to have much more ad','Approximately 60 percent of world water consumption is in agriculture sector mainly on irrigation. 23 percent is consumed by manufacturing sector and not more than 8 percent is consumed by domestic sector. Manufacturing industries and agriculture are demanding main proportion of water and are playing the main role in water pollution. Heavy metals are a group of metallic elements which are highly poisonous and human beings are always exposing to them. Heavy metals are one of the environmental pollution issues and it is increasing. Due to heavy metal pollutions such as Cd, Pb, Cu, Cr, Zn, Hg the quality of surface and underground water is decreased. In response to these pollutants many companies are established and introduced wide range of improved chemical products to remove the heavy metals from surface water and Groundwater (Stratton, 1987). Heavy metals contain two categories of essential and none essential elements which are important in toxicology. These elements have high durabil','Roya Moradi and Pegah Dadras Mostafa Khezri (2015). Biological adsorption of chromium from aqueous solutions using crude meal canola for repeated use as irrigation water for agricultural land. Biological Forum â€“ An International Journal 7(2): 993-999.'),(4072,'118','Cholesterol Removal Effect and Bile Salt Hydrolase by Probiotic Lactic Acid Bacteria','Mahdieh Iranmanesh, Hamid Ezzatpanah, Atefeh Zamani and Haleh Hadaegh','164 MAHDIEH IRANMANESH.pdf','',1,'Dietary habit change toward lipid-rich foods in recent years has resulted in risks for cardiovascular diseases. Serum cholesterol level is commonly recognized as an important factor in disease development. In this case, one of the most significant groups of probiotic organisms are the lactic acid bacteria, probiotics are live microorganisms that promote health benefits upon consumption, they could be used as alternative supplements to exert health benefits, including cholesterol-lowering effects on humans. However, little information is available on the effective dosage of probiotics needed to exert hypocholesterolemic effects. Both probiotics and prebiotics have been suggested to reduce cholesterol via various mechanisms. Though, more clinical evidence is needed to strengthen these proposals. The objective of this article was to review existing literature concerning the effects and mechanisms of action of probiotics on serum cholesterol concentrations.','probiotic, cholesterol-lowering, bile, bile salt hydrolase.','Dietary habit change toward lipid-rich foods in recent years has resulted in risks for cardiovascular diseases. Serum cholesterol level is commonly recognized as an important factor in disease development. In this case, one of the most significant groups of probiotic organisms are the lactic acid bacteria, probiotics are live microorganisms that promote health benefits upon consumption, they could be used as alternative supplements to exert health benefits, including cholesterol-lowering effects on humans. However, little information is available on the effective dosage of probiotics needed to exert hypocholesterolemic effects. Both probiotics and prebiotics have been suggested to reduce cholesterol via various mechanisms. Though, more clinical evidence is needed to strengthen these proposals. The objective of this article was to review existing literature concerning the effects and mechanisms of action of probiotics on serum cholesterol concentrations. ','Nowadays, people are faced with a lot of health problems caused by their lifestyle like heart problems. The WHO has predicted that by 2030, cardiovascular diseases will stay the leading causes of death, affecting about 23.6 million people around the World. It was reported that hypercholesterolemia contributed to 45% of heart attacks in Western Europe and 35% of heart attacks in Central and Eastern Europe from 1999 to 2003. Like many other countries, in Iran the coronary heart disease (CHD) associated with hyperlipidemia are considered as the main cause of death. In fact, the risk of heart attack is three times higher in those with hypercholesterolemia compared to those who have normal blood lipid profiles. Also each raise in the serum cholesterol by 1% results in 2.3% increase in the risk of CHD. The WHO delineated that unhealthy diets such as those high in fat, salt and free sugar, and low in complex carbohydrates, fruits and vegetables, lead to increased risk of cardiovascular diseas','Mahdieh Iranmanesh, Hamid Ezzatpanah, Atefeh Zamani and Haleh Hadaegh. (2015). Cholesterol Removal Effect and Bile Salt Hydrolase by Probiotic Lactic Acid Bacteria. Biological Forum â€“ An International Journal 7(2): 1000-1005.'),(4073,'118','Seed treatment of Coriandrum sativum L. with salicylic acid under salinity','Mahtab Salehi, Zahra Ali Arabiyan and Masume Molavi','165 MAHTAB SALEHI.pdf','',1,'In order to investigate the effect of salicylic acid on Coriandrum sativum L. germination, this experiment was conducted in Nahavand University, on base of factorial experiment as completely randomized design with three replications. The treatments included a combination of 4 levels of salinity (0, 2, 4 and 6 dS/m) and four levels of priming (0, 0.1, 0.3 and 0.6% salicylic acid). The results showed that salinity and priming decreased germination percentage, radicle length, plumule length and seedling fresh weight significantly. As using salicylic acid even in the lowest concentration (0.1%) decreased all measured traits to lowest amount (0). In this study salicylic acid did not have significant effect on reducing harmful effect of salinity. This can be dated to the high concentration of salicylic acid which is used in current study. It can be concluded although salicylic acid is a growth stimulator in plant germination, the concentration which is used for priming must be limited.','Coriandrum sativum L., salicylic acid, salinity, priming.','In order to investigate the effect of salicylic acid on Coriandrum sativum L. germination, this experiment was conducted in Nahavand University, on base of factorial experiment as completely randomized design with three replications. The treatments included a combination of 4 levels of salinity (0, 2, 4 and 6 dS/m) and four levels of priming (0, 0.1, 0.3 and 0.6% salicylic acid). The results showed that salinity and priming decreased germination percentage, radicle length, plumule length and seedling fresh weight significantly. As using salicylic acid even in the lowest concentration (0.1%) decreased all measured traits to lowest amount (0). In this study salicylic acid did not have significant effect on reducing harmful effect of salinity. This can be dated to the high concentration of salicylic acid which is used in current study. It can be concluded although salicylic acid is a growth stimulator in plant germination, the concentration which is used for priming must be limited.','Salicylic acid is an endogenous growth regulator with phenolic nature (Sakhabutdinova et al., 2003). It acts as a potential, non-enzymatic antioxidant as well as a plant growth regulator and plays an important role in regulating some plant physiological processes (Noreen et al., 2009) such as stimulating adventitive organ, development, herbicidal effect and providing resistant biotic and abiotic stress (Canakci and Munzuro ÄŸ lu, 2007, Hussein et al., 2007). \r\nThe germination stage, due to the effect on plant density is critical, because plant survival and establishment is related to early stages of growth (Boydak, 2003). It is reported that ions in water or soil at this stage can be stimulating or inhibitory effect on germination (Tanji, 1990). \r\nSnaranta et al., (2002) stated salicylic acid is an important intermediate molecule in plants against environmental stresses. \r\nSince Coriandrum sativum L. is a valuable medicinal plant, the aim of this study is to investigate the effect of p','Mahtab Salehi, Zahra Ali Arabiyan and Masume Molavi (2015). Seed treatment of Coriandrum sativum L. with salicylic acid under salinity. Biological Forum â€“ An International Journal 7(2): 1006-1009.'),(4074,'118','Study on Species Distribution of Pierid and Lycaenid Butterflies from Three Different Elevational Gradients of Kumaun Region of Uattarakhand, India','G. Kumar, I. S. Mehra, P. Tripathi and S. Kumar ','166 SANDEEP KUMAR.pdf','',1,'This study was done to identify the various species of butterflies of family Pieridae and Lycaenidae in three different elevations of Kumaon region. A total number of 208 individuals comprising 6 species of butterflies belonging to 2 families (Pieridae and Lycaenidae) were captured during the surveys carried out in the months of May-June in 2013 and 2014 at 3 different sites situated at three different elevation gradients i.e. Dwarahat, Pandav kholi and Bageshwar. Family Pieridae was found to be distributed in approximately all conditions, whereas family Lycaenidae was abundant in Dwarahat, absolutely absent in Pandav kholi and was less distributed in Bageshwar. ','Taxonomy, butterflies, Lepidoptera, Kumaun','In present study, family Lycaenidae was found less in numbers in a higher elevation region of collection site Pandav Kholi, whereas family Pieridae were found to be distributed in approximately all regions. Distribution of butterfly species was found low in a Bageshwar where human population is high. One species of family Pieridae, Colias fieldii was found only in higher elevations. Due to high anthropogenic impact in Bageshwar, there is a low population of butterflies were recorded, which is a matter of concern.\r\nSince there is a huge destruction of butterfly natural habitat due to excessive growth in human population, some decision has to be taken for protection of this beautiful and ecologically important creature in this area.\r\n','Of the estimated 1.4 million species of life forms on the earth planet, more than 53% are insects. Coleoptera, Lepidoptera and Diptera are the most speciose insect Orders while the recent estimates suggest that the Order Lepidoptera may have more species than earlier believed and is also among the most species-rich Orders (Powell, 2009). It is one of the most widespread and widely recognized insect orders in the world. Linnaeus (1758) recognized three divisions of the Lepidoptera, i.e., Papilio, Sphinx and Phalaena, with seven subgroups in Phalaena. These persist today as 46 super families of Lepidoptera. Recently, an estimated 174,250 species are recorded under 46 super families (Mallet, 2007), which are further divided in 126 families. Among 174,250 described species of Lepidopteran in 2007, butterflies and skippers are estimated to comprise approximately 17,950 (Capinera, 2008).\r\nButterflies are commonly referred to as â€œinsects of the sunâ€ with their eye catching colour and deli','G. Kumar, I. S. Mehra, P. Tripathi and S. Kumar (2015). Study on Species Distribution of Pierid and Lycaenid Butterflies from Three Different Elevational Gradients of Kumaun Region of Uattarakhand, India. Biological Forum â€“ An International Journal '),(4075,'118','Effect of salycilic acid and sodium nitro proside on the pomegranate aril browning disorder','Mehdi Khodaei, Fariborz Zare Nahandi, Alireza Motallebi-Azar and Mohammadreza Dadpour','167 FARIBORZ ZARE NAHANDI.pdf','',1,'Pomegranate (Punica granatum L.) is one of the important fruits of the Middle East. The fruit is prone to a disorder called aril browning. This disorder threatens production, consumption, and exports of pomegranates, because affected fruit cannot be externally distinguished from healthy fruit. This study designed to evaluate the effects of foliar application of salicylic acid 0, 10-3, 10-4M (SA) and sodium nitro proside 0, 10-3, 10-4M (SNP) on the reduction of the disorder. Results indicated that foliar application of SA and SNP significantly reduced percentage of aril browning in 10-4M concentration. Also, SA and SNP significantly increased total anthocyanin content, ascorbic acid, ascorbate peroxidase activity (APX) and superoxide dismutase activity (SOD). All in all it seems that application of these growth regulators is a good approach to reduce aril browning damage in the pomegranate fruit.','Anthocyanin, aril browning, ascorbate peroxidase, superoxide dismutase.','This study indicated that SNP and SA increase pomegranate plant efficiency by the influence on physiological and biochemical processes. In this experiment, salicylic acid, and sodium nitroprusside increased anthocynin content and the activity of the Superoxide dismutase enzyme , causes loss of free radicals and prevent the aril browning. Also, our results showed that SA3-SNP3 treatment had positive effect on Ascorbate peroxidase activity, Ascorbic acid and hydrogen peroxide.','Pomegranate (Punica granatum L.) belongs to Punicaceae family and is one of the oldest known edible fruits. It is some when called Chinese apple (Mars 1994). Pomegranate fruits are mainly grown for fresh consumption of arils (botanic exact term is seed) or juice, although in different countries they are produced for the food and drink industry as seasoning and coloring agents (Gil et al. 2000). \r\nThe edible part of pomegranate has notable amounts of acids, sugars, vitamins, polysaccharides, polyphenols, and important minerals (Mirdehghan & Rahemi 2007). Pomegranate is considered due to nutritional, chemical and antioxidants characteristics. One of the characteristics that affect the quality of the fruits are anthocyanins and responsible for the color of pomegranate arils (Miguel et al. 2004). Recently, occurrence physiological disorder under the title aril browning or aril paleness is threatened the value of the fruit. First time this physiological disorder reported in Ferdows region o','Mehdi Khodaei, Fariborz Zare Nahandi, Alireza Motallebi-Azar and Mohammadreza Dadpour (2015). Effect of salycilic acid and sodium nitro proside on the pomegranate aril browning disorder. Biological Forum â€“ An International Journal 7(2): 1014-1020.'),(4076,'118','The Study of Potassium Silicate effects on Qualitative and Quantitative Performance of Potato (Solanum tuberosum L.)','Shiva Talebi, Ahmad Majd, Masoumeh Mirzai, Sayeh Jafari and Masoumeh Abedini','168 SHIVA TALEBI.pdf','',1,'Potato is a plant with high nutritional value that is at fifth place after wheat, corn, rice and barley in terms of production and consumption in world. Its production is increased due to high productivity and compatibility with a wide range of climates and as a nutritional source. In this study, silicon effect as a useful element on quantitative and qualitative performance of potato crop was evaluated in form potassium silicate. The experiments were performed in completely randomized block design with 3 replicates and in field conditions. For review was used of the concentration 0, 5mM of potassium silicate in solution and spray forms. The results of comparing mean traits showed significant differences between treatment groups in chlorophyll b, soluble sugars of leaves and carotenoids. Although, it was not observed significant differences between treatment groups in terms of chlorophyll a amount, leaves insoluble sugars and protein, but spraying 5mM potassium silicate showed significa','potassium silicate, sugar, protein, Chlorophyll, Solanum tuberosum L.','Silicon is the second most abundant element in the earth\'s surface and is one of the important elements that form clay minerals structure in soils and is known as a useful element for plants (Epstein,1999). The amount of silicon uptake and collection by plants is variable between 0.1 to 10 percent of dry weight. Today, silicon is not classified as an essential element for plants but its beneficial effects has been observed in a wide range of plant species (Epstein,1994 & Ma and Yamaji, 2006).\r\nSilicon plays role in growth improvement, photosynthesis increase, efficiency of transpiration and evaporation, increasing the strength of leaves, chlorophyll concentration per leaf area and product quality (Hwang et al., 2005). It seems that precipitated silica on cell wall increases strength and reinforces walls (Inanaga and Okasaka, 1995). Potassium silicate is one of the silicon fertilizers which contain 27% of silicon oxide (Reezi et al., 2009). Silicon is usually absorbed by plant in the fo','Silicon is the second most abundant element in the earth\'s surface and is one of the important elements that form clay minerals structure in soils and is known as a useful element for plants (Epstein,1999). The amount of silicon uptake and collection by plants is variable between 0.1 to 10 percent of dry weight. Today, silicon is not classified as an essential element for plants but its beneficial effects has been observed in a wide range of plant species (Epstein,1994 & Ma and Yamaji, 2006).\r\nSilicon plays role in growth improvement, photosynthesis increase, efficiency of transpiration and evaporation, increasing the strength of leaves, chlorophyll concentration per leaf area and product quality (Hwang et al., 2005). It seems that precipitated silica on cell wall increases strength and reinforces walls (Inanaga and Okasaka, 1995). Potassium silicate is one of the silicon fertilizers which contain 27% of silicon oxide (Reezi et al., 2009). Silicon is usually absorbed by plant in the fo','Shiva Talebi, Ahmad Majd, Masoumeh Mirzai, Sayeh Jafari and Masoumeh Abedini (2015). The Study of Potassium Silicate effects on Qualitative and Quantitative Performance of Potato (Solanum tuberosum L.). Biological Forum â€“ An International Journal 7(2):'),(4077,'118','Studying the Competitiveness and Supporting Potential of Oil Seeds Production in Golestan Province (Case study: Soybean and Sunflower)','Elnaz Tizchang, Mohsen Shokatfadaei, Gholamreza Yavari and Samaneh Abedi','169 SAMANEH ABEDI.pdf','',1,'The comparative advantage is a term used to represent the potential of a country in producing various products in comparison to global markets. Thus, the method of policy analysis matrix and index of domestic resource cost for calculating relative advantage of soy and sunflower products were used in this study. To study the support policies of the mentioned products the indices policy analysis matrix were also used. The study period was crop year of 2012-2013 and the study area was and cities in Golestan province. In this study, two-stage cluster method was used for the field and questionnaire studies. DRC index was calculated for irrigated soybean, irrigated sunflower and rain fed products was 0.25, 0.02 and 0.89, respectively which shows that the mentioned products had the comparative advantage of production. In addition, the results of calculated support indices indicated that domestic policies tended to support this study.','comparative advantage, effective rate of protection, domestic resource cost, oil crop, Golestan','In general, according to the supportive coefficients in Golestan province in 2012-2013, it can be said that government supports for inputs involved in the production of sunflower and soybeans and their product market had an important role; in other words, the government interfered in the production and the effects of this intervention on these inputs market showed receiving indirect subsidies from producers. Among the studied products, irrigated Sunflower was placed in the first place in the ranking of comparative advantage in 2012.\r\nBased on the results it can be suggested that given that the province ranks first in the production of oil seeds among other producing provinces, thus it has a comparative advantage in the production of soybean and sunflower and to maintain this advantage, it had increased the revenue per unit area using high yielding varieties adapted to local culture, while reducing the cost of domestic factors, which helped the sustainability of this advantage in the fe','Development and prosperity of rural areas and agriculture needs economic growth of agricultural sector and improvement of the industrial and service sectors. There are several strategies for development of the agricultural sector including increased investment, modifying local markets, agricultural integration in world trade, strengthening the participatory planning and implementation of cropping patterns in different geographical areas (Falahati, 2012). Some important reasons for this could be the role of agriculture sector in the economies of developing countries, the issue of food security, market assistance, raw materials, exchange factors, supporting the agricultural sector, non-commercial farmers, rural poverty, low level and efficiency and productivity and non-optimal allocation of production factors (Boshrabadi, 2004). Therefore, paying attention to this sector and supporting it against international competition in the world of free trade are the country\'s most important functi','Elnaz Tizchang, Mohsen Shokatfadaei, Gholamreza Yavari and Samaneh Abedi (2015). Studying the Competitiveness and Supporting Potential of Oil Seeds Production in Golestan Province (Case study: Soybean and Sunflower) . Biological Forum â€“ An International'),(4078,'118','The Effect of Putrescine on Date Bunch Fading Disorder','Bahman Panahi and Bahareh Damankeshan','170 BAHMAN PANAHI.pdf','',1,'Polyamines are nitrogen-rich compounds and induce resistance in plants against pests, diseases and physiological disorders. This study was performed to investigate the effect of putrescine spray solution (a compound derived from free polyamines group) to reduce the amount of damaged fruits caused by date bunch fading disorder in Mazafati date palms in Kerman province. In this study the percentage of damaged fruits caused by date bunch fading disorder, length, diameter and weight of fruit, fruit pulp to seed ratio, total soluble solids of fruit, percentage of fruit total sugar, pH, titratable acidity, percentage of fruit protein, percentage of fruit moisture and yield were evaluated. The obtained results showed application of 12mM putrescine concentrations was effective on reduction of damaged fruits caused by date bunch fading disorder. Furthermore, application of 12mM putrescine concentration caused increase on diameter of fruit, weight of fruit and yield in experimental trees. All pu','Bam, date bunch fading disorder, fruit, putrescine','According to the abovementioned findings, foliar application of putrescine on the fruits at the beginning of Kharak stage in Mazafati date cultivar trees at Bam region caused reduction of damage percentage of date bunch fading disorder (by 19%), and also contributed to increase of trees\' yield (by 16kg). As it was discussed, different concentrations of putrescine increased fruit length, fruit diameter, fruit weight, fruit moisture content and pulp to seed ratio, and reduced fruit\'s protein content, total sugar and total soluble solids in compare to the control. Titratable acidity and pH of the fruit were not affected by putrescine treatment.','Date fruit is one of Iranian valuable horticultural products on which the income and occupation of the majority of the stares\' southern provinces\' residences are depended. This product plays an important role in regard with food security, national economics, entrepreneurship, environmental conservation and sustainability, export and exchange technology in the state. In the recent years, the date bunch fading disorder has been the most important challenge of date production in Iran. This disorder first was reported in 1989 from Kahnooj area in Kerman Province. However, none of the main date-producing countries of the world have reported this disorder yet. In Kerman province, Mazafati date cultivar is very susceptible to this disorder (Panahi et al., 2011; Panahi et al., 2012).\r\nThe date bunch fading disorder may be observed in the fruits in their Kharak-to-Rutab transformation stage. The symptoms of this disorder first appear in form of fruits wilt. Simultaneously with fruits wilting, t','Bahman Panahi and Bahareh Damankeshan (2015). The Effect of Putrescine on Date Bunch Fading Disorder . Biological Forum â€“ An International Journal 7(2): 1035-1040.'),(4079,'118','The comparison effects of different levels of extract of Medicinal plants Melissa officinalis on efficiency, and safety carcass specification in broiler chickens','Hossein Reza Shahbazi and Mohammad Heidari','171 HOSSEIN REZA SHAHB.pdf','',1,'This experiment was conducted to inquire the effect of usage distinct levels of extract of Medicinal plants Melissa (Melissa officinalis) in drinking water in contrast by an antibiotic growth assistant on the carcass traits and growth performance of broiler chicks. Birds were appointed to 5 treatments: antibiotic group receiving, control food, mg/kg Enrofloxacin10%, and 0.1, 0.2 and 0.3 % extract of Medicinal plants Melissa completed to drinking water feed conversion ratio of broilers were determined at d 1, 21 and 42, defined at the same periods, and Body weights was calculated accordingly. At day 42, two birds per replicate were sacrificed for determination of cadaver traits. Performance indices were not substantialy easily influenced by the dietary treatments at day 42. Carcass efficiency in broilers complemented with 0.3 % Medicinal plants Melissa extract in drinking water. In corollary, the statistical results of this discussion showed that addition of 0.3 % extract of Medicinal','Melissa officinalis, immune response, blood parameter and broiler chickens.','This experiment was conducted to inquire the effect of usage distinct levels of extract of Medicinal plants Melissa (Melissa officinalis) in drinking water in contrast by an antibiotic growth assistant on the carcass traits and growth performance of broiler chicks. Birds were appointed to 5 treatments: antibiotic group receiving, control food, mg/kg Enrofloxacin10%, and 0.1, 0.2 and 0.3 % extract of Medicinal plants Melissa completed to drinking water feed conversion ratio of broilers were determined at d 1, 21 and 42, defined at the same periods, and Body weights was calculated accordingly. At day 42, two birds per replicate were sacrificed for determination of cadaver traits. Performance indices were not substantialy easily influenced by the dietary treatments at day 42. Carcass efficiency in broilers complemented with 0.3 % Medicinal plants Melissa extract in drinking water. In corollary, the statistical results of this discussion showed that addition of 0.3 % extract of Medicinal','However, Problems such as loss of antibiotic Productivity along time and risk of left over in food of animal origin, with the possible expansion of bacterial insistence in humans, have concerned Consumer, Medicinal plants Melissa (Melissa officinalis) is a member of the Labiatae family and one of the world\'s oldest medicinal herbs, and is used in both Western and Eastern traditions. It is extensively used in herbal medicine and According to be specifically beneficial in structural the immune system and fighting secondary infections. Mentha extract Contains essential oil, saponins, glycosides, tannins and other components. Menthol is the main phenolic component in oil of Melissa officinalis which has antibacterial activities (Engberg et al., 2000). Antibiotics growth promoters (AGP) have been augmented to animal diets to protect health, promote growth and maximize the genetic potential of poultry (Al-Ankari et al., (2004), Toghyani et al., (2010), Ocak et al., (2008), Eyssen and De','Hossein Reza Shahbazi and Mohammad Heidari (2015). The comparison effects of different levels of extract of Medicinal plants Melissa officinalis on efficiency, and safety carcass specification in broiler chickens. Biological Forum â€“ An International Jo'),(4080,'118','Effect of different concentrations of kinetin and 2,4,D on callus induction of citrus rootstock (Citrus sp.)','Seyedeh Zahra Hosseini, Nadali Babaeian Jelodar, Heshmatallah Rahimian and Gholamali Ranjbar\r\n','172 SEYEDEH ZAHRA HOSSEINI.pdf','',1,'The present investigation was undertaken to study the effect of different concentrations and combinations of 2, 4-dichloro-phenoxyacetic acid (2, 4-D), Kinetin (Kin) on callus induction of five citrus rootstocks (Sour orange, Citromelo, Citrange, Poncirus, Volkameriana) on MS basal medium. Different concentration of 2,4-D and Kin were tasted in order to obtain the best callus formation. Maximum callus induction response (100%) was obtained on MS medium with 2,4-D (2 mg/l) and Kin (3 mg/l) for Poncirus. Best callus induction response of Citrange (94.44%) was observed on MS medium with 2,4-D (3 mg/l) and Kin (6 mg/l). The highest frequency of the callus induction rate (100%) was occurred on MS medium supplemented with 2.4-D (3 mg/l) and Kin (6 mg/l) for Citromelo and Volkameriana. MS medium supplemented with 2,4-D (2 mg/l)and Kin (3 mg/l) showed maximum callus induction (66.67%) for Sour orange.','Callus induction, Citrus rootstocks, 2, 4-D, Kin.','The present investigation was undertaken to study the effect of different concentrations and combinations of 2, 4-dichloro-phenoxyacetic acid (2, 4-D), Kinetin (Kin) on callus induction of five citrus rootstocks (Sour orange, Citromelo, Citrange, Poncirus, Volkameriana) on MS basal medium. Different concentration of 2,4-D and Kin were tasted in order to obtain the best callus formation. Maximum callus induction response (100%) was obtained on MS medium with 2,4-D (2 mg/l) and Kin (3 mg/l) for Poncirus. Best callus induction response of Citrange (94.44%) was observed on MS medium with 2,4-D (3 mg/l) and Kin (6 mg/l). The highest frequency of the callus induction rate (100%) was occurred on MS medium supplemented with 2.4-D (3 mg/l) and Kin (6 mg/l) for Citromelo and Volkameriana. MS medium supplemented with 2,4-D (2 mg/l)and Kin (3 mg/l) showed maximum callus induction (66.67%) for Sour orange.','Citrus is one of the most important commercial crops of the world valued for its juice and other by products (Ramdan et al., 2014). Advances in tissue culture have generated new opportunities for citrus genetic improvement. In vitro propagation has therefore been a great potential tool to overcome problems related with the field culture for such species (Hidaka &Omara, 1989). The genetic improvements of this perennial woody plant often take many years using traditional plant-breeding methods (Kayim and Koe, 2006). Hence, plant tissue culture techniques can be applied as a helpful tool to reduce the time for improvement of citrus through somaclonal variation (Chandler et al., 1996). These studies were undertaken with the aim of controlling the techniques being able to lead in the genetic improvement of the selected citrus fruit species (Chakravarty et al., 1999). Plant tissue culture is an efficient method of vegetative propagation of various perennial trees. Different protocols of call','Seyedeh Zahra Hosseini, Nadali Babaeian Jelodar, Heshmatallah Rahimian and Gholamali Ranjbar (2015). Effect of different concentrations of kinetin and 2,4,D on callus induction of citrus rootstock (Citrus sp.) . Biological Forum â€“ An International Jour'),(4081,'118','Diversity of Invasive alien plant species in district Yamuna Nagar of Haryana, India','Amarjit Singh and Inam Mohammed','173 INAM MOHAMMED.pdf','',1,'A study of diversity of invasive alien plant species in district Yamuna Nagar of Haryana has been carried out from September 2014 to August 2015. During this session, a total of 148 plants were screened for their nativity, 90 species were found to be of exotic origin belonging to 77 genera and 42 families in the study area. Majority of invasive species are naturalized, followed by invasive and casual. The authors have observed and reported that anthropogenic pressure, habitat loss of native species and climate change are the main causes of invasion of these species.','Invasion, Anthropogenic pressure, Habitat loss and Yamuna Nagar.','A study of diversity of invasive alien plant species in district Yamuna Nagar of Haryana has been carried out from September 2014 to August 2015. During this session, a total of 148 plants were screened for their nativity, 90 species were found to be of exotic origin belonging to 77 genera and 42 families in the study area. Majority of invasive species are naturalized, followed by invasive and casual. The authors have observed and reported that anthropogenic pressure, habitat loss of native species and climate change are the main causes of invasion of these species.','Invasive species are emerging as one of the major threats to sustainable development, on par with global warming and destruction of lifeâ€“support systems. These alien species come in the form of plants, animals and microbes that have been introduced into an area from other parts of the world, and have been able to displace the indigenous species (Preston and Williams, 2003). The invasive species are widely distributed among all categories of living organisms as well as all kinds of ecosystems throughout the world (Hobbs and Humphries, 1995).\r\nConvention on Biodiversity (CBD, 2010) visualized that invasion by the exotic species is one of the leading threat to native wildlife. Several characteristics of the species help them to be invasive. Most important among them are the large quantity of seeds they produce which are mostly very small so as to be carried away to long distances by wind and water (Khare, 1980; Enserink, 1999). Many invasive plants produce allelochemicals which halt the','Amarjit Singh and Inam Mohammed (2015). Diversity of Invasive alien plant species in district Yamuna Nagar of Haryana, India. Biological Forum â€“ An International Journal 7(2): 1051-1056.'),(4082,'118','Study of chemical composition in wild edible mushroom Pleurotus cornucopiae (Paulet) from Himachal Pradesh, India by using Fourier transforms infrared spectrometry (FTIR), Gas chromatography-mass spectrometry (GCMS) and X-ray fluorescence (XRF)','Renu Parmar and Dinesh Kumar','174 REENU PARMAR.pdf','',1,'FTIR, GC/MS and XRF study was carried out to evaluate the chemical composition of Pleurotus cornucopiae (Paulet), Collected from Kalpa in H.P. Thirteen peaks were recorded by FTIR spectrophotometry which corresponds to nine different functional groups. Results of GC/MS study showed the presence of 180 different compounds at different retention time. Only thirty nine compounds were found dominant. 6-Octadecenoic acid, cis-13-Octadecenoic acid and cis-Vaccenic acid occupied 52% portion of the sample. Eighteen different minerals/metals were identified by XRF analysis. Diethylpyrocarbonate (94.06%) and Potassium (4.28%) was found abundant in Pleurotus cornucopiae (Paulet). The results obtained during this study contribute to the knowledge of chemical composition of wild edible mushroom viz. Pleurotus cornucopiae (Paulet). The results of present study are assumed to be useful for pharmaceutical and food industry as many of the identified constituents of Pleurotus cornucopiae (Paulet) are us','Macro-fungi; Mushroom; Delicacy; Therapeutic; GC/MS; FTIR and XRF','High level of chemical components were found in wild edible as well as medicinal mushroom Pleurotus cornucopiae (Paulet). Identified compounds contributes beneficial role to human being and have been considered as new source for different supplement and curative for many ailments with low risk for resistance development by pathogenic microorganisms due to natural origin. According to these results, Pleurotus cornucopiae (Paulet) could be suggested as a new potential source of natural therapeutic use in many remedies.','Mushrooms are macro fungus associated with mankind and provide profound biological and economical impact. These are the fruiting body of Ascomycota and Basidiomycota having short reproductive stage in their life cycle (Das, 2010). They can be epigeous or hypogeous, and seen with the naked eyes (Chang and Miles, 1992). Diversity of these macro fungus species are present in wild mostly in moisten areas. There are 140,000 species of macro fungus (mushrooms) occuring on earth, out of these only 10% species are known. It is estimated that if the undiscovered species will be described than they will be helpful in providing their benefits to mankind (Hawksworth, 2001). Many of these macro fungi have been used in medicine whereas some species are consumed by man for their nutritional value to increase the health of body (Elmastas et al., 2007; Ribeiro et al., 2007).Several workers have identified the nutritional value of various mushrooms. Nutritive value of Pleurotus flabellatus was determine','Renu Parmar and Dinesh Kumar (2015). Study of chemical composition in wild edible mushroom Pleurotus cornucopiae (Paulet) from Himachal Pradesh, India by using Fourier transforms infrared spectrometry (FTIR), Gas chromatography-mass spectrometry (GCMS) an'),(4083,'118','Sildenafil, a Selective Inhibitor of type 5 phosphodiesterase, attenuates Bleomycin-induced Lung Fibrosis in Rat','Ali-Asghar Hemmati, Mohsen Kazemi, Marziyeh Pashmforoosh, Hossein Rajabi-Vardanjani, Somayeh Shabib, Amir Nili-Ahmadabadi and Amir Larki\r\n','175 DR. AMIR LARKI.pdf','',1,'The present study aimed to investigate effects of sildenafil on bleomycin (BLM)-induced lung fibrosis in rat. Animals were divided into five groups and treated according to the following treatments: group 1 received daily normal saline, intraperitoneally (ip); group 2 received a single dose of BLM (7.5 IU/kg), intratracheally, and then received normal saline like the control group; groups 3, 4 and 5 were BLM groups which received sildenafil (5, 10 and 25 mg/kg/day ip, respectively) from 1 week before to 3 weeks after BLM administration. Finally, the animals were killed and the changes of hydroxyproline (HP) and histology were evaluated in lung tissue. The results showed that HP level was significantly lower in the sildenafil treated rats as compared to BLM group. In addition, the HP changes were well related with the pathological findings. This study suggests that blocking of type 5 phosphodiesterase may prevent progression of BLM-induced lung fibrosis.','Pulmonary fibrosis, phosphodiesterase inhibitors, oxidative stress, bleomycin, sildenafil','Taken collectively, our findings showed that sildenafil inhibited BLM-induced PF. This effect is possibly related to the anti-inflammatory, anti-oxidative capability involved in inhibition of PDE5 enzyme. However, its exact mechanisms need to be verified in future studies.','Pulmonary fibrosis (PF) is one of the most common respiratory diseases; it is characterised pathologically by excessive accumulation of extracellular matrix (ECM) around the alveoli and remodelling of the lung architecture. Overall, imbalance between the accumulation and breakdown of ECM is a major reason for the incidence of PF. When the normal balance between ECM deposition and turnover is shifted toward deposition or away from breakdown, excessive ECM accumulates (Wynn and Ramalingam, 2012; Todd et al., 2012). Furthermore, oxidative stress has a critical role in the pathogenesis of PF (Yildirim et al., 2004). \r\nSeveral animal experimental models have been used in PF studies (Moore and Hogaboam, 2008). Bleomycin (BLM) has been widely used in animal models to study the mechanisms involved in PF and evaluate potential therapeutic agents (Wynn, 2011). In this model, the changes in connective tissue components such as collagen, fibronectin and hyaluronan have been confirmed as markers of','Ali-Asghar Hemmati, Mohsen Kazemi, Marziyeh Pashmforoosh, Hossein Rajabi-Vardanjani, Somayeh Shabib, Amir Nili-Ahmadabadi and Amir Larki (2015). Sildenafil, a Selective Inhibitor of type 5 phosphodiesterase, attenuates Bleomycin-induced Lung Fibrosis in R'),(4084,'118','Antioxidant and antibacterial studies on different extracts of Ornithogalum cuspidatum Bertol from Iran','Dara Dastan and Atousa Aliahmadi','176 DARA DASTAN.pdf','',1,'Ornithogalum cuspidatum is an Iranian species of the genus Ornithogalum L. (family: Liliaceae). The species of Ornithogalum are used widely in Iranian traditional medicine for treatment of inflammatory and respiratory disease. The purpose of the present study is to evaluate antioxidant and antimicrobial activities of n-hexane, ethyl acetate, methanol and aqueous extracts of O. cuspidatum leaves and to determine their relationship with the phenolic composition. The antioxidant activities of different extracts of O. cuspidatum were evaluated with DPPH radical-scavenging activity. The amounts of total phenolics were also determined spectrophotometerically. Antimicrobial activities of different extracts were examined against five Gram-positive and four Gram-negative bacteria. Methanol extract of O. cuspidatum showed the strongest antioxidant activity (IC50 = 35.7 Âµg/ml) and the highest total phenolic content (94.1 mg GA/g extract). n-hexane, methanol and ethyl acetate extracts demonstrate','Ornithogalum cuspidatum, Extract, Antioxidant, Antimicrobial, Liliaceae, Medicinal plant.','Ornithogalum cuspidatum is an Iranian species of the genus Ornithogalum L. (family: Liliaceae). The species of Ornithogalum are used widely in Iranian traditional medicine for treatment of inflammatory and respiratory disease. The purpose of the present study is to evaluate antioxidant and antimicrobial activities of n-hexane, ethyl acetate, methanol and aqueous extracts of O. cuspidatum leaves and to determine their relationship with the phenolic composition. The antioxidant activities of different extracts of O. cuspidatum were evaluated with DPPH radical-scavenging activity. The amounts of total phenolics were also determined spectrophotometerically. Antimicrobial activities of different extracts were examined against five Gram-positive and four Gram-negative bacteria. Methanol extract of O. cuspidatum showed the strongest antioxidant activity (IC50 = 35.7 Âµg/ml) and the highest total phenolic content (94.1 mg GA/g extract). n-hexane, methanol and ethyl acetate extracts demonstrate','Free radicals or reactive oxygen species (ROS) such as superoxide, singlet oxygen, hydroxyl radicals, peroxyl, and peroxynitrite can damage the body by cellular or oxidative stress. This leads to the development of diseases like cancer, diabetes, cardiovascular, and cirrhosis. Free radicals generated in the body can be removed by its own natural antioxidant defense systems that include glutathione peroxidase, catalase, superoxide dismutase, etc. Endogenous antioxidant defense are not completely efficient. Therefore, natural and dietary antioxidants are required to reduce the effect of oxidative stress due to excessive free radicals occurring in our system (Badiee et al., 2015; Mohammadi et al., 2012). Antibacterial compounds such as antibiotics had been available for decades. Nowadays multi-drug resistant (MDR) human pathogens are considered among the most important health threatening problems worldwide (Poole, 2005). Application of new natural antibacterial such as plant extracts has ','Dara Dastan and Atousa Aliahmadi (2015). Antioxidant and antibacterial studies on different extracts of Ornithogalum cuspidatum Bertol from Iran . Biological Forum â€“ An International Journal 7(2): 1072-1075.'),(4085,'118','Antibacterial Activity of Gundelia tournefortii Compounds against Salmonella choleraesuis','Boshra Ayoubi and Parisa Baradari','177 BOSHRA AYOUBI.pdf','',1,'Aliphatic (2E)-alkenals and alkanals characterized from the fresh leaves of the coriander Gundelia tournefortii were found to possess bactericidal activity against Salmonella choleraesuis ssp. choleraesuis (2E)-Dodecenal (C12) was the most effective against this food-borne bacterium with the minimum bactericidal concentration (MBC) of 6.25 Âµg/mL (34 ÂµM), followed by (2E)-undecenal (C11) with an MBC of 12.5 Âµg/mL (74 ÂµM). The time-kill curve study showed that these Î±,ÃŸ-unsaturated aldehydes are bactericidal against S. choleraesuis at any growth stage and that their bactericidal action comes in part from the ability to act as nonionic surfactants.','Anti-Salmonella activity; Gundelia tournefortii; Salmonella choleraesuis; surfactant activity','Aliphatic (2E)-alkenals and alkanals characterized from the fresh leaves of the coriander Gundelia tournefortii were found to possess bactericidal activity against Salmonella choleraesuis ssp. choleraesuis (2E)-Dodecenal (C12) was the most effective against this food-borne bacterium with the minimum bactericidal concentration (MBC) of 6.25 Âµg/mL (34 ÂµM), followed by (2E)-undecenal (C11) with an MBC of 12.5 Âµg/mL (74 ÂµM). The time-kill curve study showed that these Î±,ÃŸ-unsaturated aldehydes are bactericidal against S. choleraesuis at any growth stage and that their bactericidal action comes in part from the ability to act as nonionic surfactants.','Gundelia is a genus of plants in the sunflower family. The best known species is Gundelia tournefortii. It is found in the semi-aried areas of Lebanon, Syria, Palestine, Israel, Jordan, Iraq, Iran, Azerbaijan, Armenia, and Anatolia. Gundelia tournefortii is a perennial growing to 0.4 m (1ft 4in). The flowers are hermaphrodite (have both male and female organs) and are pollinated by Insects (Aburjai et al. 2001; Abutbul et al. 2005). The leaves, stems, roots, and undeveloped flower buds of G. tournefortii, colloquially known as tumble thistle, are edible when they first sprout in early spring(Samani, Rafieian-Kopaei, and Azimi 2013). The plant becomes progressively drier over the summer, it leaves yellowing and growing spikes. Before dying, it detaches from the root to be pushed around by the wind and disperse its seeds for the following year\'s harvest. Sold in markets in Jerusalem, Syria, Iraq and Lebanon, it\'s also gathered in the wild in Turkey (Al-Salt 2012). Among Palestinian citiz','Boshra Ayoubi and Parisa Baradari (2015). Antibacterial Activity of Gundelia tournefortii Compounds against Salmonella choleraesuis . Biological Forum â€“ An International Journal 7(2): 1076-1081.'),(4086,'118','Evaluation the accuracy and repeatability of radiological diagnosis of well-defined unilocular radiolucent lesions by oral and maxillofacial radiologists','H. Bashizadeh Mokhtar, M. Sahebjamee and P. Bolandian','178 P. BOLANDIAN.pdf','',1,'Diagnosis of unilocular radiolucent lesions with respect to their similar appearance on radiographs has always been problematic. The present study aimed to determine the accuracy and repeatability of radiological diagnosis of unilocular well-defined radiolucent lesions that defined by Oral and Maxillofacial radiologists. In a diagnostic study, radiographs of 48 unilocular well-defined radiolucent lesions (in a ratio of 4 periapical, pericoronal, interradicular and unrelated with teeth) were chosen from patients files of the Department of the Faculty of Dentistry of Tehran University and were detected differentiallyby3radiologists.When one of 3 diagnoses was compatible with histopathologic diagnosis (golden standard) the diagnosis was correct, other wise an incorrect diagnosis was considered. One month later 2 observer assessed those images and intraobserver and interobserver repeatability assessed with kappa test.\r\nAccuracy of observers distinguish was averaged 8/68% (7/66%, 9/72% and ','unilocular radiolucent lesions, diagnostic accuracy, repeatability','Considering the accuracy of68/8% it seems the diagnostic accuracy for oral and maxillofacial radiologists has been proper to identification of well-defined unilocular radiolucent lesions. As well as, According to the mean intra observer repeatability 88/6% and mean interobserver repeatability 83/3% for observers it seems they had repeatable diagnoses for radiolucent lesions and this values are in defined range by the WHO. Despite this issue, due to some differences among observers diagnosis or during diagnostic evaluation by an observer in two stages, It seems definite diagnosis of radiolucent lesions based on radiography is not an appropriate criterion for treatment plan.','Radiographs are important in treatment planning for surgical removal. So they can evaluate encroachment on vital structures, size of the lesion, extent into soft tissue, and requirements for reconstruction. Therefore radiography allows for creation of a radiologic differential diagnosis (Apostole et al., 2003). Diagnosis of bone lesions has always been problematic, especially unilocular radiolucent lesions because of their similar radiography (O\'Reilly et al., 2000). Maxillofacial bone lesions have different radiographic views including radiolucent, radiopaque or mixedseen. Radiolucent lesions are most common type of maxillofacial lesions and are classified in periapical, pericoronal, interradicular and unrelated with teeth lesions (Wood and Goaz 1997). A well-defined unilocular radiolucency has distinct radiopaque borders that show discrete radiopaque foci (Curran et al., 1997, Philipsen et al., 2002). \r\n Causes of radiolucent lesions are different so they should be distinguished fro','H. Bashizadeh Mokhtar, M. Sahebjamee and P. Bolandian (2015). Evaluation the accuracy and repeatability of radiological diagnosis of well-defined unilocular radiolucent lesions by oral and maxillofacial radiologists . Biological Forum â€“ An International'),(4087,'118','In vitro evaluation of resistant of potato cultivars against black leg disease (Pectobacterium atrosepticum)','Azadmanesh Sima, Javad Mozafari, Hasanzadeh Nader and Moslemkhani Cobra','179 AZADMANESH SIMA.pdf','',1,'A screening system comprised of piercing and dipping was developed to evaluate the level of resistance in potato cultivars against potato black leg disease caused by Pectobacterium atrosepticum. For this, in vitro cultures of 45 genotypes were obtained from Iranian potato collection and established on MS medium. Healthy plantlets were wound with a sterile toothpick and inoculated with 108 cfu/ml bacterial suspension. Simultaneously, the crown cuttings were dipped in similar dense suspensions for 10 min. Diseased symptoms including leaves wilting and rotting of the stems were recorded after 3 days post-inoculation. Varying levels of resistance in both treatments were observed. In order of verified in vitro (laboratory) inoculation methods, a screening of resistance for representative cultivars 2704- Els- 7A-Cara and 10908-18 in green house condition, adjusted and results were in accordance with laboratory methods. On resistant genotypes rather than the susceptible cultivars, it was al','Potato blackleg, resistance screening methods, disease index','A screening system comprised of piercing and dipping was developed to evaluate the level of resistance in potato cultivars against potato black leg disease caused by Pectobacterium atrosepticum. For this, in vitro cultures of 45 genotypes were obtained from Iranian potato collection and established on MS medium. Healthy plantlets were wound with a sterile toothpick and inoculated with 108 cfu/ml bacterial suspension. Simultaneously, the crown cuttings were dipped in similar dense suspensions for 10 min. Diseased symptoms including leaves wilting and rotting of the stems were recorded after 3 days post-inoculation. Varying levels of resistance in both treatments were observed. In order of verified in vitro (laboratory) inoculation methods, a screening of resistance for representative cultivars 2704- Els- 7A-Cara and 10908-18 in green house condition, adjusted and results were in accordance with laboratory methods. On resistant genotypes rather than the susceptible cultivars, it was al','Potato (Solanum tuberosum) is a worldwide cultivated tuber-bearing plant which is the fourth main food crop in the world after maize (Zea mays), wheat (Triticum aestivum) and rice (Oryza sativa) (Douches et al., 1996). Potato does not require special growth conditions and it has been for a long time a major field crop in temperate regions, and increasingly in warmer climates (Haverkort, 1990).\r\nLosses in production and storage of a potato crop are caused by several bacterial and fungal diseases. Erwinia carotovora subsp. atroseptica (van Hall) Dye, Erwinia carotovora subsp. carotovora (Jones) Dye, and Erwinia chrysanthemi (Burkh, et al.) are causal agents of two important potato bacterial diseases: stem blackleg early in the growing season and tuber soft rot in storage (Perombelon & Kelman, 1980).\r\nBlackleg is a severe field disease leading to the development of an inky black and slimy soft rot of stems. Severely affected plants die, and tubers from diseased plants may show a black so','Azadmanesh Sima, Javad Mozafari, Hasanzadeh Nader and Moslemkhani Cobra (2015). In vitro evaluation of resistant of potato cultivars against black leg disease (Pectobacterium atrosepticum) . Biological Forum â€“ An International Journal 7(2): 1087-1094. '),(4088,'118','Effects of Magnetic Field on Growth and Antioxidant Capacity of Artemisia aucheri in Normal or Saline Conditions','Parto Roshandel and Forouzan Azimian','180 PARTO ROSHANDEL.pdf','',1,'In the present study, changes of total phenolic concentration and radical-scavenging activity were evaluated in the shoots of Artemisia aucheri -a medicinal plant- that had been exposed as seeds to magnetic fields (90 or 200 mT for 5 and 20 min) and that were irrigated for one month with NaCl (150 mM) under glasshouse conditions. Total phenolic content and radical-scavenging activity decreased in A. aucheri under salt stress. Magnetic fields (particularly at 200mT for 20min) significantly increased these parameters compared to control, regardless of the presence or absence of NaCl. While salt stress induced MDA accumulation and biomass diminution in A. aucheri, magnetic-pretreatment of seeds significantly alleviated the injurious effects of NaCl. Results suggested application of magnetic field would increase salt tolerance in A. aucheri through maintenance of cellular membrane integrity. It may also improve medicinal properties of the shoots via increased polyphenols concentration and ','Artemisia aucheri, Antioxidant activity, Magnetic field, Salt stress, Seed pretreatment','In the present study, changes of total phenolic concentration and radical-scavenging activity were evaluated in the shoots of Artemisia aucheri -a medicinal plant- that had been exposed as seeds to magnetic fields (90 or 200 mT for 5 and 20 min) and that were irrigated for one month with NaCl (150 mM) under glasshouse conditions. Total phenolic content and radical-scavenging activity decreased in A. aucheri under salt stress. Magnetic fields (particularly at 200mT for 20min) significantly increased these parameters compared to control, regardless of the presence or absence of NaCl. While salt stress induced MDA accumulation and biomass diminution in A. aucheri, magnetic-pretreatment of seeds significantly alleviated the injurious effects of NaCl. Results suggested application of magnetic field would increase salt tolerance in A. aucheri through maintenance of cellular membrane integrity. It may also improve medicinal properties of the shoots via increased polyphenols concentration and ','During Oxidation reactions highly reactive molecules such as reactive oxygen species (ROS) are produced in plant cells leading to start chain reactions which may result in significant damage to cell structures. Although, ROS are generated as a natural byproduct through normal metabolism of plants, however, their concentrations augment greatly as a secondary component of other stresses such as salinity which is known as oxidative stress (Ozgur et al., 2013). Currently, the role of antioxidants in reducing damage caused by ROS is well-established (Gill and Tuteja, 2010). Antioxidants can inhibit the initiation or proliferation of oxidizing chain reactions and as a consequence, delay or inhibit the oxidation of lipids, proteins and other vital molecules in cells (Zhengand and Wang, 2001). Free radicals create serious risks for human health due to attenuation of the immune system, alteration in gene expression and induction of abnormal proteins. Consequently, the potential health risks and','Parto Roshandel and Forouzan Azimian (2015). Effects of Magnetic Field on Growth and Antioxidant Capacity of Artemisia aucheri in Normal or Saline Conditions. Biological Forum â€“ An International Journal 7(2): 1095-1103.'),(4089,'118','Screening of Standard Chrysanthemum (Chrysanthemum morifolium Ramat) Varieties for Flower Production and Post Harvest Longevity under Sub-tropical conditions of Punjab','Nazir Ahmad Malla and Pardeep Kaur','181 PRADEEP KUMAR.pdf','',1,'Present investigation was carried out to screen ten standard type varieties of chrysanthemum, namely, Purnima, Alfred Wilson, Alfred Simpson, Kikobiory, Valiant, Florence Shoe Smith, Crimson Tide, Denise Oatridge, Thai Ching Queen and Star of India for various flower, leaf and post harvest longevity parameters. The study was carried out at Floricultural Research Farm, Punjab Agricultural University, Ludhiana. The results revealed that variety Star of India recorded maximum plant height at bud appearance (61.55 cm) as well as at commercial harvesting stage (82.78 cm). Variety Crimson Tide produced medium length stems (67.89 cm). Highest chlorophyll content and chlorophyll fluorescence was observed in variety Star of India, 62.4 mg and 0.854 respectively. The same variety showed maximum flower diameter (16.47 cm) and longest duration of flowering (32.30 days). Varieties Alfred Wilson, Denise Oatridge, Alfred Simpson and Thai Ching Queen were early flowering as they needed 93-95 days to ','Standard varieties, chrysanthemum, flower production, vase life\r\n \r\n','It can be concluded that varieties with large flower size and long stems are better suited for flower production in pots for exhibition and decoration purposes while those with medium sized flowers exhibit better post harvest keeping qualities. ','Commercial floriculture is seen as a sunrise industry and now it has been given 100% export oriented status by Government of India (APEDA 2016). The important floricultural crops in the international cut flower trade are rose, carnation, chrysanthemum, garbera, marigold, gladiolus, tuberose, jasmine, orchids, anthurium, tulip, and lilies. Chrysanthemum ranks second just next to rose in terms of popularity and production in India as well as globally. Chrysanthemums are commonly called as mums or pompons and widely cultivated for decoration purposes as cut flowers, pot and bedding plants. Chrysanthemum cultivars exhibit enormous variation in terms of size, shape and color of blooms. Standard type varieties possess single large flower atop long sturdy stems which are used for cut flower production or as exhibition plants. Humongous hues of chrysanthemum blooms are major reason for the attraction of flower lovers as well as growers. Increasing demand for such exotic types of flower varieti','Nazir Ahmad Malla and Pardeep Kaur (2015). Screening of Standard Chrysanthemum (Chrysanthemum morifolium Ramat) Varieties for Flower Production and Post Harvest Longevity under Sub-tropical conditions of Punjab . Biological Forum â€“ An International Jour'),(4090,'118','Indigenous Technical Knowledge Associated in Muga culture','D. Mech, M. Ahmed and Rajesh Kumar','1 D. MECH, M. AHMED AND RAJESH KUMAR.pdf','',1,'Indigenous Technical Knowledge (ITK) is the actual knowledge of a given population that reflects the experiences based on tradition and includes more recent experiences with modern technologies. Muga culture is an age old traditional practices sustaining amidst the rural folk since time immemorial in Assam and few states of North East India. Since long past, muga culture was recognized as one of the most promising venture for development of socio-economic condition of the rural populace in Assam. From the study, it is revealed that the culture involves various indigenous practices and beliefs, varies from one location to another and also believed to be effective in production system. Current study was conducted at Golaghat district of Assam for obtaining traditional practices of ITK in muga culture and presented in this manuscript. ','Traditional practices, muga culture, khorika, jail, Ocimum sanctum ','Since long past, muga culture was recognized as one of the most promising venture for development of socio-economic condition of the rural populace in Assam. From the study, it is revealed that the culture involves various indigenous practices and beliefs, varies from one location to another and also believed to be effective in production system. Hence, further study covering all the traditional muga growing pockets in Assam and other North Eastern states of India is an urgent need to recognize and collect all the ITKs associated in muga culture. These ITKs are also need to understand thoroughly, critically validate and document in different form using the modern techniques so as to integrate the best ones into the farming system to reduce dependence on external inputs, cost of production and make the culture eco-friendly. Incorporating ITK into R & D agenda, production of muga raw silk can be increased which in turn help to earn more income by the farmers in the coming days. ','Indigenous Technical Knowledge (ITK) is the actual knowledge of a given population that reflects the experiences based on tradition and includes more recent experiences with modern technologies. Indigenous practices are an unwritten body of knowledge. So far, here is no systematic record to of describe what they are, what they do and how they do, how they can be changed, their operations, their boundaries and their applications. It is held in different brains, languages and skills in as many groups, cultures and environments as are available today (Atte, 1989). The ITKs are also part of the lives of the rural poor and these are increasingly being seen as a reservoir of ideas and solutions for many serious problems in various field. Traditional practices of agricultural and other allied crop that farmers have learnt from their long association with the land, its flora and fauna were based on eco-friendly and its sustainability. Muga culture is an age old traditional practices sustaining','D. Mech, M. Ahmed and Rajesh Kumar (2015). Indigenous Technical Knowledge Associated in Muga culture. Biological Forum â€“ An International Journal 7(1): 1-6.'),(4091,'117','Therapeutic properties of in vitro plant aqueous extract of Boerhaavia diffusa L. against carbon tetrachloride induced hepatotoxicity in male and female swiss albino mice','Tejovathi Gudipati , Pratima Srivastava, Rekha Bhadouria Harisharan Goswami and GBKS Prasad\r\n','2 TEJOVATHI GUDIPATI , PRATIMA SRIVASTAVA, REKHA BHADOURIA HARISHARAN GOSWAMI.pdf','',1,'In the present study, multiple shoots were raised from Boerhaavia diffusa L. nodal segments on MS + BAP (6-benzylaminopurine) medium. Root induction and plant regeneration was achieved on MS + NAA (alpha naphthalene acetic acid) medium. Regenerated plants were transferred to field successfully and used for the analysis of their therapeutic potential. Albino female and male mice were separately intoxicated with Carbon tetrachloride (CCl4) for hepatic injury. Recovery of the mice with hepatic injury was noticed when concurrently administered with in vitro plants ethanolic extract (Group III) and also in Group IV (fed with natural plant extract) mice proved that the in vitro regenerated Boerhaavia plants produced bioactive molecules that show hepatoprotective activity similar to that of the natural ones. ','In vitro, Boehraavia diffusa L, hepatoprotective, CCl4, Intoxication','In the present study, multiple shoots were raised from Boerhaavia diffusa L. nodal segments on MS + BAP (6-benzylaminopurine) medium. Root induction and plant regeneration was achieved on MS + NAA (alpha naphthalene acetic acid) medium. Regenerated plants were transferred to field successfully and used for the analysis of their therapeutic potential. Albino female and male mice were separately intoxicated with Carbon tetrachloride (CCl4) for hepatic injury. Recovery of the mice with hepatic injury was noticed when concurrently administered with in vitro plants ethanolic extract (Group III) and also in Group IV (fed with natural plant extract) mice proved that the in vitro regenerated Boerhaavia plants produced bioactive molecules that show hepatoprotective activity similar to that of the natural ones. ','Plants are important source of natural products used in pharmaceutical industries. Increase in demand for natural medicines has resulted in the production of these products by alternative approaches such as biotechnological approaches especially plant tissue cultures. Scientific approaches for the pharmacovigilance of these herbal bioactive molecules produced in ex situ, however, needs to be analysed. \r\nBoerhaavia diffusa L. (Nyctaginaceae), commonly known as â€œPunarnavaâ€ in the Indian system of medicine, is a perennial creeping herb found throughout the waste lands of India. \r\nA large number of compounds have been isolated from the roots of Boerhaavia diffusa L., namely punarnavine, Î²-sitosterol, Î²-D-glucoside, tetracosamine, hexacosanoic, ursolic acid and punarnavosidev (Jain and Khanna, 1989). The major active principle present in the roots is an alkaloid known as Punarnavine. The alkaloid is responsible for the therapeutical and pharmacological properties of Boerhaavia diffusa','Tejovathi Gudipati , Pratima Srivastava, Rekha Bhadouria Harisharan Goswami and GBKS Prasad (2015). Therapeutic properties of in vitro plant aqueous extract of Boerhaavia diffusa L. against carbon tetrachloride induced hepatotoxicity in male and female s'),(4092,'117','Indigenous Technical Knowledge Associated in Muga culture','D. Mech, M. Ahmed and Rajesh Kumar','1 D. MECH, M. AHMED AND RAJESH KUMAR.pdf','',1,'Indigenous Technical Knowledge (ITK) is the actual knowledge of a given population that reflects the experiences based on tradition and includes more recent experiences with modern technologies. Muga culture is an age old traditional practices sustaining amidst the rural folk since time immemorial in Assam and few states of North East India. Since long past, muga culture was recognized as one of the most promising venture for development of socio-economic condition of the rural populace in Assam. From the study, it is revealed that the culture involves various indigenous practices and beliefs, varies from one location to another and also believed to be effective in production system. Current study was conducted at Golaghat district of Assam for obtaining traditional practices of ITK in muga culture and presented in this manuscript. ','Traditional practices, muga culture, khorika, jail, Ocimum sanctum ','Since long past, muga culture was recognized as one of the most promising venture for development of socio-economic condition of the rural populace in Assam. From the study, it is revealed that the culture involves various indigenous practices and beliefs, varies from one location to another and also believed to be effective in production system. Hence, further study covering all the traditional muga growing pockets in Assam and other North Eastern states of India is an urgent need to recognize and collect all the ITKs associated in muga culture. These ITKs are also need to understand thoroughly, critically validate and document in different form using the modern techniques so as to integrate the best ones into the farming system to reduce dependence on external inputs, cost of production and make the culture eco-friendly. Incorporating ITK into R & D agenda, production of muga raw silk can be increased which in turn help to earn more income by the farmers in the coming days. ','Indigenous Technical Knowledge (ITK) is the actual knowledge of a given population that reflects the experiences based on tradition and includes more recent experiences with modern technologies. Indigenous practices are an unwritten body of knowledge. So far, here is no systematic record to of describe what they are, what they do and how they do, how they can be changed, their operations, their boundaries and their applications. It is held in different brains, languages and skills in as many groups, cultures and environments as are available today (Atte, 1989). The ITKs are also part of the lives of the rural poor and these are increasingly being seen as a reservoir of ideas and solutions for many serious problems in various field. Traditional practices of agricultural and other allied crop that farmers have learnt from their long association with the land, its flora and fauna were based on eco-friendly and its sustainability. Muga culture is an age old traditional practices sustaining','D. Mech, M. Ahmed and Rajesh Kumar (2015). Indigenous Technical Knowledge Associated in Muga culture . Biological Forum â€“ An International Journal 7(1): 1-6.'),(4093,'117','Biology of Rust-Red Flour Beetle, Tribolium castaneum (Herbst)\r\n (Coleoptera: Tenebrionidae)\r\n','M. Bhubaneshwari Devi and N. Victoria Devi ','3 M. BHUBANESHWARI DEVI AND N. VICTORIA DEVI.pdf','',1,'A laboratory study was undertaken on the biology of Tribolium castaneum on wheat flour at an average room temperature 29oC and 59% R.H. during January to July 2013. The daily egg laying was observed on the first day of oviposition on the wheat flour. No. of eggs laid per day by a female was 24 eggs. Incubation period was 4 to 5 days and grub underwent seven instars and total developmental period of the immature stages ranged from 70 to 83 days with an average of 76.5 days. Pupation takes place in the flour. The pupal period ranged from 6 to 9 days with an average of 7.5 days and the unmated male and female adult period ranged from 45 to 67 days and 75 to 89 days respectively. The total life cycle of a beetle was 164-194 days.','Room temperature, Humidity, Average duration, Life cycle, T. castaneum.','A laboratory study was undertaken on the biology of Tribolium castaneum on wheat flour at an average room temperature 29oC and 59% R.H. during January to July 2013. The daily egg laying was observed on the first day of oviposition on the wheat flour. No. of eggs laid per day by a female was 24 eggs. Incubation period was 4 to 5 days and grub underwent seven instars and total developmental period of the immature stages ranged from 70 to 83 days with an average of 76.5 days. Pupation takes place in the flour. The pupal period ranged from 6 to 9 days with an average of 7.5 days and the unmated male and female adult period ranged from 45 to 67 days and 75 to 89 days respectively. The total life cycle of a beetle was 164-194 days.','The red flour beetle, T. castaneum (Herbst) is worldwide and most destructive pest of stored products and is cosmopolitan in distribution. It is the most common pest of wheat flour. It also causes serious damage upon dried fruits, pulses and prepared cereal foods, such as cornflake, pasta, biscuit, beans, nuts, etc. It is an often the most common species in the pest complex attacking stored wheat although its pest status is considered to be secondary, requiring prior infestation by an internal feeder, it can readily infest with or other grains damaged in the harvesting operation. Both larvae and adults feed on grain dust and broken grain, but not the undamaged whole grains and spend its entire life cycle outside the grain kernels (Karunakaran et al., 2004). In severe infestation, the flour turn greyish and has a pungent, disagreeable odour- making it unfit for human consumption. This insect causes substantial loss in storage because of its high reproductive potential (Prakash et al.,19','M. Bhubaneshwari Devi and N. Victoria Devi (2015). Biology of Rust-Red Flour Beetle, Tribolium castaneum (Herbst) (Coleoptera: Tenebrionidae) Biological Forum â€“ An International Journal 7(1): 12-15.\r\n'),(4094,'117','Reviewing the Comparative Advantages of Producing Tomato and Cucumber in Khorasan Razavi','Zahra Noori Tupkanloo','4 ZAHRA NOORI TUPKANLOO1.pdf','',1,'This research aims to study the comparative advantages of producing tomato and cucumber in Khorasan Razavi for crop year 2013-2014. Results revealed that the province enjoys comparative advantages of producing these crops. As the producer Nominal Protection Coefficient (NPC) for both crops is less than 1, the burden of tax is indirectly imposed on the producer. The Nominal Inputs Protection Coefficient (NIPC) is greater than 1 for both tomato and cucumber; this means that an indirect taxed is imposed on producers in using inputs. The Effective Protection Coefficient (EPC) is less than 1, or governmentâ€™s interventions come to producers harm. Finally, the Net Social Profitability (NSP) is positive for both crops. Considering shadow prices, producing tomato and cucumber carry with itself the social profitability of more than 6,930,000 and 5,560,000 IRR respectively. ','Comparative Advantage, Nominal Protection Coefficient (NPC), Nominal Inputs Protection Coefficient (NIPC), Effective Protection Coefficients (EPC), and Net Social Profitability (NSP) ','Results show that producing cucumber and tomato in Khorasan Razavi provides high comparative advantages. Production of these crops is recommended to be developed following marketing in foreign markets which guaranteeing the success. ','Comparative advantage is an important economic index for production planning, export and import. It shows that if a country can produce a good at a lower relative opportunity cost or autarky price, i.e. at a lower relative marginal cost prior to trade, the commodity brings a comparative advantage over another ones. Any country or region, in fact, enjoys comparative advantages in producing a particular group of commodities based on its natural potentials and capabilities and the frequency of the productivity of production factors. It can, thus, be interested in gain from exporting such commodities. The comparative advantage of international trade is revealed when it comes to a free and fair global market in which these are only market forces that determine production and trade. This is a fact hardly comes true. \r\nIn the international trade, the comparative advantage should be seen from two different perspectives. First, it should be said for certain that the exporting country gains the ','Zahra Noori Tupkanloo (2015). Reviewing the Comparative Advantages of Producing Tomato and Cucumber in Khorasan Razavi. Biological Forum â€“ An International Journal 7(1): 16-19.'),(4095,'117','Genetic Diversity of Gastrointestinal tract Fungi in Buffalo by Molecular methods on the basis of Polymerase Chain Reaction','Abbas Mo\'azami Goudarzi, Mohammad Chamani, Naser Maheri-Sis, Mehdi Amin Afshar and Ramin Salamatdoost-Nobar\r\n','5 MOHAMMAD CHAMANI.pdf','',1,'Buffalo are able to utilize feed more efficiently than beef cattle where the feed supply is of low quantity and or quality. Therefore, the present study was conducted to establish the community structure of anaerobic rumen fungi in buffalo using molecular approaches. Polymerase chain reaction approach was used in this study to determine the population of major anaerobic rumen fungi in buffalo in digesta and rumen fluid. Total community DNA was extracted, and the ribosomal internal transcribed spacer (ITS) 1 region was amplified, cloned, and sequenced. The resulting nucleotide sequences were used to construct a phylogenetic tree. A total of 12 clones were analyzed. Sequence analysis of ITS1 spacer seems a promising tool for comparing a variety of rumen fungal isolates. ','Anaerobic rumen fungi, buffalo, ITS1, rRNA, PCR ','Buffalo are able to utilize feed more efficiently than beef cattle where the feed supply is of low quantity and or quality. Therefore, the present study was conducted to establish the community structure of anaerobic rumen fungi in buffalo using molecular approaches. Polymerase chain reaction approach was used in this study to determine the population of major anaerobic rumen fungi in buffalo in digesta and rumen fluid. Total community DNA was extracted, and the ribosomal internal transcribed spacer (ITS) 1 region was amplified, cloned, and sequenced. The resulting nucleotide sequences were used to construct a phylogenetic tree. A total of 12 clones were analyzed. Sequence analysis of ITS1 spacer seems a promising tool for comparing a variety of rumen fungal isolates. ','The anaerobic gut fungi are the only known obligately anaerobic fungi. For the majority of their life cycles, they are found tightly associated with solid digesta in the rumen and or hindgut. They produce potent fibrolytic enzymes and grow invasively on and into the plant material they are digesting making them important contributors to fibre digestion. This close association with intestinal digesta has made it difficult to accurately determine the amount of fungal biomass present in the rumen, Orpin (1984) suggesting fungal 8% contribution to the total microbial biomass. It is clear that the rumen microbial complement is affected by dietary changes, and that the fungi are more important in digestion in the rumens of animals fed with high-fibre diets (Bauchop, 1979 and Lee et al., 2000). It seems likely that the gut fungi play an important role within the rumen as primary colonizers of plant fibre (Akin et al., 1983).\r\nPresent knowledge of anaerobic gut fungal population diversity with','Abbas Mo\'azami Goudarzi, Mohammad Chamani, Naser Maheri-Sis, Mehdi Amin Afshar and Ramin Salamatdoost-Nobar (2015). Genetic Diversity of Gastrointestinal tract Fungi in Buffalo by Molecular methods on the basis of Polymerase Chain Reaction . Biological '),(4096,'117','Holy plants and flowers in people beliefs','Parvaneh Adelazadeh and Kamran Pashaei Fakhri','6 PARVANEH ADELAZADEH AND KAMRAN PASHAEI FAKHRI @ LOTFI IRAN.pdf','',1,'In the ancient times when human being did not have the modern humanâ€™s scientific subjectivity and he could not perceive the reasons for effect of the plants, he considered them possessing holy and supernatural forces like other phenomena. Construction of gardens and planting of flowers and plants in all over the world indicate the holiness of the plants. In the past, plants especially trees were symbol of life, eternity, fertility and virtue and they were respected. The holiness of the plants and the trees in ancient world and particularly in ancient Iran had caused to consider the plants as the first ancestor of human. And because of this we can refer to â€œMashiâ€ and â€œMashianehâ€ as holy plants which human has been descended from them. Sometimes in legends, the personâ€™s life is associated with a tree and withering and destruction of the tree is linked with death. According to the legends The Big and Evergreen tree with the fruits of eternity waters all t','Tree, flower, myths, world, belief','In the past the plants not only played role in the environment but also they were holy in the beliefs of people. Each nation had specific holy tree and the people respected it. What was effective in their holiness was property of regeneration and fertility. Since human being has paid attention to the birth and death and regeneration and he sought immortality.\r\nThese properties of some plants and trees in treatment of the illnesses and meeting the needs and relationship with religious beliefs have added on the importance of the plants so the religions advised their follower to plant tree. In the legends removing and cutting of some trees was considered sin and the sinner was punished.\r\n','Our ancestors ate plants and gradually they recognized that some of the trees and flowers have thorn and they are venomous and some others have healing property. Some of them could be eaten and others were fetal with side effects. By progress of the human beliefs about gods and goddesses and souls the happiness and misery of the mankind was related to the plants although the plants were fetal, tranquiller and relieving so they were powerfulâ€(Warner, 2007:566).\r\nSince the past, human beings have lived besides trees and the trees were shelter, fuel, agriculture tools and lumber for house so that they built their weapons from the tree and the leaves and fruits and the seeds of the trees were inspirations for spiritual growth( Dadvar & Mansouri, 2006:5). The symbolic meaning of tree in the past and even in the present has combined with humans culture and lifeâ€ (Bahar, 1997:43).\r\nâ€œThe importance of some trees is rooted in the relationship with mankind and event such as sleeping under ','Parvaneh Adelazadeh and Kamran Pashaei Fakhri (2015). Holy plants and flowers in people beliefs . Biological Forum â€“ An International Journal 7(1): 26-29. '),(4097,'117','Deficit irrigation and sowing date as strategies to maximize water use efficiency and crop water productivity in semi-arid region','Amir Tabarzad and Ali A. Ghaemi','7 AMIR TABARZADAND ALI A. GHAEMI.pdf','',1,'Deficit irrigation has been widely investigated as a valuable and sustainable production strategy in dry regions. In this research different irrigation regimes and different sowing date were applied in an experimental field at southwest of Iran (semi-arid region) during 2011/2012 and 2012/2013 to identify suitable sowing date and optimum deficit irrigation for winter barley. The experiment was laid out as a split plot design, with irrigation factor as main plots and sowing date as sub-plots having three replications. Irrigation levels were 1 (FI), 0.75 (0.75FI) and 0.5 (0.5FI) times of the full irrigation requirements and dry land farming (dry land). The sowing dates were 23 October (T1), 6 and 22 November (T2 & T3) and 6 December (T4).The results showed that decreasing irrigation regimes, increased WUE in the first (0.82, 0.83 and 0.84 kg m-3 regularly for FI, 0.75FI and 0.5FI) and second year (0.70, 0.71 and 0.72 kg m-3 regularly for FI, 0.75FI and 0.5FI), but the differences between','Deficit irrigation; sowing date; WUE; Barley.','In this study ET was linearly related to the amount of irrigation. There was about 291.7 mm difference in soil evaporation among different treatments. \r\nMaximum yield was obtained when the average amount applied of irrigation water was 704 mm and ET was 926.3 mm, for the two growing seasons. However, the seasonal irrigation application should vary with seasonal rainfall and the soil moisture condition before sowing, although the depletion in to the soil profile was considerable in the ET components. \r\nResults indicated that the treatment 0.75 FI was the best related to WUEnet and WP in two growing seasons. The results showed that with the increase in irrigation, ET increased and WUE, WUEnet and WP decreased but the amount of WUE in dry land treatments was less than irrigated treatments. Deficit irrigation leads to decrease in soil evaporation and E/ET. Furthermore by delaying in sowing date WUE, WUEnet, WUEi and WP decreased. Also by delaying in sowing date E and E/ET increased. Consi','Barley is one of the important agricultural products in Iran for human and animals (livestock). To enhance food security, the promotion of barley cultivation is a priority. Shortage of irrigation water is major constraints for barley production in arid and semi-arid regions of central and southern parts of Iran.\r\nWith regard to the lack of surface water, especially in the southern Iran, groundwater becomes a very significant source of irrigation water in the area. Groundwater level is persistently declining, and there are a number of regions with large significant zones of groundwater depression (Ghaemi and Tabarzad, 2014). Therefore, it becomes critically important to reduce crop evapotranspiration (ET) to save groundwater pumped for irrigation in an irrigation area. So the needs for improving water-use efficiency (WUE) in crop production and sustainable use of water resources are clearly urgent (Saed-Moucheshi et al. 2012; Zhang and Oweis 1999). To cope with water scarcity, different','Amir Tabarzad and Ali A. Ghaemi (2015). Deficit irrigation and sowing date as strategies to maximize water use efficiency and crop water productivity in semi-arid region . Biological Forum â€“ An International Journal 7(1): 30-42.'),(4098,'117','Correlation between morphological and physiological traits and path analysis of grain yield in rice genotypes under Khuzestan conditions ','Marzieh Moosavi, Gholamali Ranjbar, Hamid Najafi Zarrini and Abdolali Gilani','8 MARZIEH MOOSAVI @ JAHAD SOORI.pdf','',1,'This experiments was to determine causal relationships of morphological and physiological traits, and also analysis of relationships between grain yield as dependent trait and morphological and physiological traits as independent traits in order to breeding of rice genotypes that can be tolerant to warm conditions in Khuzestan. In this study was conducted on 30 breeding lines of rice in a CRBD design with two replications at the Agricultural Research Station Shaoor, Khuzestan province of Iran, in 2014. The results of correlation among measured traits showed that the correlation between grain yield per plant and number of panicles (r = 0.55) was the highest. Stepwise regression for grain yield as dependent variable (Y) and other traits as independent variables (X) showed that panicle number, harvest index, dry weight and panicle length were able to explain a large portion of the variance (R2 = 0.65).Due to high levels of direct effects of harvest index and number of panicles (0.6 and 0.','Rice, correlation, stepwise regression, path analysis','This experiments was to determine causal relationships of morphological and physiological traits, and also analysis of relationships between grain yield as dependent trait and morphological and physiological traits as independent traits in order to breeding of rice genotypes that can be tolerant to warm conditions in Khuzestan. In this study was conducted on 30 breeding lines of rice in a CRBD design with two replications at the Agricultural Research Station Shaoor, Khuzestan province of Iran, in 2014. The results of correlation among measured traits showed that the correlation between grain yield per plant and number of panicles (r = 0.55) was the highest. Stepwise regression for grain yield as dependent variable (Y) and other traits as independent variables (X) showed that panicle number, harvest index, dry weight and panicle length were able to explain a large portion of the variance (R2 = 0.65).Due to high levels of direct effects of harvest index and number of panicles (0.6 and 0.','Rice is one of the most important cereal crops and provides the staple food for about half of the worldâ€™s population especially for people in developing countries (Wu et al., 2013).Yield component traits increasing grain yield (directly or indirectly) if they are highly heritable and positively correlated with grain yield (Hasan et al., 2013). Since genetic gain in yield potential of crops is more difficult to achieve in a breeding program, breeders have applied indirect selection for yield based on plant traits (Yuan, et al., 2011).\r\nIn spite of some studies such as Gravois and McNew (1993) that reported that selection for panicle weight and number alone was unsuccessful in increasing rice grain yield, compared with selection for yield per se, many researchers reported that indirect selection for yield based on yield components was more efficient than direct selection for yield on several crop species (Takeda and Frey, 1976; Kumar and Bahl, 1992; Saadalla, 1994; Totok et al., 1998).','Marzieh Moosavi, Gholamali Ranjbar, Hamid Najafi Zarrini and Abdolali Gilani (2015). Correlation between morphological and physiological traits and path analysis of grain yield in rice genotypes under Khuzestan conditions Biological Forum â€“ An Internat'),(4099,'117','American species of Lindernia dubia (L.) Pennell â€“ occurrence in India','Jothimani Krishnasamy and Rajendran Arumugam','9 JOTHIMANI KRISHNASAMY.pdf','',1,'Lindernia dubia (L.) Pennell American species so far reported in North America, Central America, South America, Taiwan, China, Serbia, Bulgaria, Japan, Canada, Mexico, Cuba, Jamaica, Coata Rica, Panama, Colombia, Bolivia, Venezuela and Brazil. First time reported in India from the Western Ghats of Coimbatore in Tamil Nadu. A detailed description and photograph are provided to facilitate its easy identification.','Lindernia dubia, New record, Western Ghats, Coimbatore, India','Lindernia dubia (L.) Pennell American species so far reported in North America, Central America, South America, Taiwan, China, Serbia, Bulgaria, Japan, Canada, Mexico, Cuba, Jamaica, Coata Rica, Panama, Colombia, Bolivia, Venezuela and Brazil. First time reported in India from the Western Ghats of Coimbatore in Tamil Nadu. A detailed description and photograph are provided to facilitate its easy identification.','The genus Lindernia Allioni (1766:178, t5) comprises about 100 species (Fischer, 1999), distributed almost throughout the tropical and temperate regions of both the old and new world (Lewis, 2000). The centers of diversity of Lindernia are situated in Africa (Fischer, 1992) and South East Asia. They fall in 3 main geographical groups, the largest in Asia followed by those in Africa and the Americas (Philcox, 1968). \r\nThis genus was originally placed in the Scrophulariaceae (s. l.) based on molecular studies by Rahmanzadeh et al. (2005). A total of 28 species of Lindernia are reported from Indo-Burma and 30 taxa reported from India (28 species, 1 subspecies and 1 variety), among them 25 are known from South India (Mukherjee 1945, Sivarajan and Mathew, 1983, Murugan et al., 2002, Tandyekkal and Mohanan, 2010, Ratheesh et al., 2012). A checklist of angiosperms of Kerala possesses 18 species of Lindernia (Nayar et al., 2006). \r\nFrequent field trips were conducted to study the aquatic flor','Jothimani Krishnasamy and Rajendran Arumugam (2015). American species of Lindernia dubia (L.) Pennell â€“ occurrence in India . Biological Forum â€“ An International Journal 7(1): 48-51.'),(4100,'117','An analytical method to survey the energy input-output and emissions of greenhouse gases from Wheat and Tomato farms in Iran','Asadullah Mirasi, Mousarreza Samadi and Amir Hossein Rabiee','10 ASADULLAH MIRASI.pdf','',1,'This study survived the energy use patterns and energy input-output of wheat and tomato productions in Isfahan province of Iran. The face-to-face questionnaire method was used to collect the data from 75 and 35 farmers for wheat and tomato, respectively. The results showed that total energy input for wheat and tomato production was to 46108and 115894 MJha-1, respectively. Among all inputs involved, fertilizer had the highest energy value per hectare for wheat; furthermore, diesel fuel had the highest share of total energy consumption for tomato production. The value of energy ratio for cultivating wheat and tomato productions were calculated at 0.95 and 0.75, respectively. The ratio of renewable energy within the total energy in all productions is very low. The share of non-renewable energy for wheat and tomato production was 80% and 85%, respectively. The results of CO2 emission analyzes showed that the total amount of CO2 emission for wheat and tomato production was 1.9 and 4.7 tones','Energy utilization; environmental pollution; Energy ratio','Based on the results of this paper it can be stated that:\r\n1. The total energy requirements for cultivating the wheat and tomato were found 46108 MJ ha-1 and 115894MJha-1 respectively. In energy sources, fertilizer had the maximum energy values for wheat and diesel fuel had the highest share of total energy consumption for tomato production.\r\n2. The values of the energy ratio for cultivating the wheat and tomatowere0.95 and 0.75, respectively. Also, the values of specific energy consumption for wheat and tomato cultivation were found to be 17and 1.06 MJkg-1 respectively.\r\n3. In this research the ratio of renewable energy within the total energy in all productions is very low. The share of non-renewable energy for wheat and tomato production was 80%, and 85%, respectively.\r\n4. The results of CO2 emission analyzes showed that the diesel fuel had the highest share of total CO2 emission for tomato production. The total amounts of CO2 emission were 4.7 and 1.9 tonha-1 for wheat and tomato, ','Agriculture is both a producer and consumer of energy. It uses large quantities of locally available non-commercial energy, such as seed, manure and animate energy, as well as commercial energies, directly and indirectly, in the form of diesel, electricity, fertilizer, plant protection, chemical, irrigation water, machinery etc. Efficient use of these energies helps to achieve increased production and productivity and contributes to the profitability and competitiveness of agriculture sustainability in rural living (Singh et al., 2002). Energy input-output relationships in cropping systems vary with crops being grown in sequence, by type of soils, nature of tillage operations for seedbed preparation, nature and amount of organic manure, chemical fertilizer, plant protection measures, harvesting and threshing operations and, finally, yield levels (Mandal et al., 2002) .\r\nCetin and Vardar studied on differentiation of direct and indirect energy inputs in agro industrial production of tom','Asadullah Mirasi, Mousarreza Samadi and Amir Hossein Rabiee (2015). An analytical method to survey the energy input-output and emissions of greenhouse gases from Wheat and Tomato farms in Iran. Biological Forum â€“ An International Journal 7(1): 52-58.'),(4101,'117','Factor Analysis of Entrepreneurship Development among Rural Women','Mohammad Javad Fazeli, Ahmad Reza Ommani and Tahmasb Maghsoudi','11 AHMAD REZA OMMANI.pdf','',1,'The purpose of this research was identifying affecting factors on entrepreneurship development among rural women in Dehloran Township, Iran. The research method was descriptive and correlative. Rural women of Dehloran Township considered as statistical population. The sample size was 120 people. The main tool of research was a questionnaire. All data processing and statistical analysis was performed using the software SPSS 21. Based on the results of factor analysis the factors were categorized into six main components, which have been named economical and structural factor, psychological and managerial factor, cultural factor, skill factor, supportive factor and investment factor. The obtained results from the factor analysis revealed that the six mentioned factors explained 73.34% of the variation of affecting factors on development of entrepreneurship among rural women.','Development of Entrepreneurship, Factor Analysis, Dehloran Township','Based on the results of factor analysis the factors were categorized into six main components, which have been named economical and structural factor, psychological and managerial factor, cultural factor, skill factor, supportive factor and investment factor. The obtained results from the factor analysis revealed that the six mentioned factors explained 73.34% of the variation of affecting factors on development of entrepreneurship. Thus, the policy makers must be considering the items of these factors.\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\nA. Economical and structural factor\r\n1) There should be coordination between the agencies concerned with rural women entrepreneurship.\r\n2) Reduce taxes and duties for the entrepreneurs.\r\n3) Funds for the development of new businesses\r\n4) Willing to invest in research and business \r\ndevelopment\r\n5) Facilitate loans to rural women\r\n6) Familiarity with appropriate methods\r\n7) Of advertising for sale\r\n8) Ability to perform administrative correspondence needed to obtain loans, sales','In recent years the entrepreneurship has gained wide popularity on the whole globe. The rate of becoming entrepreneurs in women is more compared to men (Renzulli et a1., 2000). Wan et a1., (2011) revealed that rural entrepreneurship is one of the foundations of rural economic development. Rural entrepreneurship generally can be defined as creation of a new organization that introduces a new product, serves or creates a new market, or utilizes a new technology in a rural environment. Entrepreneurship in rural areas include widening the base of a farm business to include all the non-agricultural uses that available resources can be put to or through any major changes in land use or level of production other than those related solely to agriculture Women entrepreneurs may be defined as a women or a group of women who initiate, organize and run a business enterprise. Women owned business are highly increasing (Mehta and Mehta, 2011). Rural women\'s entrepreneurship can contribute to econo','Mohammad Javad Fazeli, Ahmad Reza Ommani and Tahmasb Maghsoudi (2015). Factor Analysis of Entrepreneurship Development among Rural Women Biological Forum â€“ An International Journal 7(1): 59-63.'),(4102,'117','The effect of application of different kinds of covers on the sunburn and internal qualities of pomegranate in Iran','Mehdi Ghorbani, Gholam Reza Dabbagh, Samira Yousefi, Shiva Khademi, Morteza Taki','12 MORTEZA TAKI.pdf','',1,'Pomegranate (Punica granatum) is one of the most important crops in Iran. Isfahan province has a lot of wide Pomegranateâ€™s orchards. However, there are some ways that can damage these crops. One of them is damages by sun that called sunburn. The purpose of this research was to compare the efficiency of some kinds of covering to prevent of sunburn dame in pomegranate orchard in Isfahan province of Iran. Three kinds of covering used in this research that called Methal, Harir and Behdashti. They have different meshes. Results showed that there is no significant difference between all treatments (Harir, Metghal and Behdashti about sunburn) bout all of them had a significant difference with check treatment. Harir and Methgal had a better performance when we want to compare all treatments about sunburn. In these treatments there werenâ€™t sunburn more than 50% and they decreased the percentage of sunburn between 10 to 50 and more than 50%. ','Pomegranate, Net covering, Sunburn, Isfahan Province','Pomegranate (Punicag ranatum) is one of the most important crops in Iran. Isfahan province has a lot of wide Pomegranate\'s orchards. However, there are some environmental effects that can damage these crops. One of them is sunburn and this option can decrease the customers and make some expenditures. To control it, three kinds of covers are used in Shahreza region. One of them was 18 holes per 1 square centimeter (Harir) second was 22 holes per 1 square centimeter (Metghal) and third was with very tiny holes (Behdashti). The purpose of this research was to compare the efficiency of these covers .To achieve this objective, some pomegranate orchards was chosen treatments. The results of research showed that there isn\'t significant difference between all treatments (between Harir, Metghal and Behdashti about sunburn) bout all of them had a significant with treatment. Reduction of sunburn was observed in all treatments in comparison to the check. ','Pomegranate (Punica granatum L.) belongs to the Punicaceae family. It is a shrub, usually with multiple stems, that commonly grows 6-15 ft. (1.8-4.6 m) tall. The slender branches start out upright then droop gracefully. This tree species is well adapted to marginal lands and arid soils. (Parashar and Ansari, 2012). It is native to the region extending from present day Iran to the Himalayas in northern India and has been cultivated since ancient times throughout the Mediterranean region of Asia, Africa and parts of Europe (Said et al., 2009).\r\nPomegranate is one of the oldest known edible fruits and was used in many ways as it is today and was featured in Egyptian mythology and art, praised in the Koran and Old Testament of the Bible, and desert caravans for the sake of its thirst-quenching juice carried it (Taki et al, 2014). It traveled to central and southern India from Iran about the first century A.D. and was reported growing in Indonesia in 1416. It has been widely cultivated thro','Mehdi Ghorbani, Gholam Reza Dabbagh, Samira Yousefi, Shiva Khademi, Morteza Taki (2015). The effect of application of different kinds of covers on the sunburn and internal qualities of pomegranate in Iran .Biological Forum â€“ An International Journal 7('),(4103,'117','Factor Analysis of Marketing Management among Summer Crop Farmers','Reza Makvandi, Ahmad Reza Ommani and Mohammad Aghapour','13 AHMAD REZA OMMANI-2.pdf','',1,'The purpose of this research was identifying affecting factors on marketing management among summer crop farmers Ahwaz Township, Iran. The research method was descriptive and correlative. Summer crop farmers of Ahwaz Township considered as statistical population. The sample size was 300 people. After designing and validating the questionnaire, the questionnaire was pre-tested among 30 people and Cronbach alpha 0.86 was determined. The main tool was a questionnaire. In this study, after the collection and classification of data, data analysis and according to the type of research in two stages using descriptive statistics and inferential statistics were taken. To ensure, 310 questionnaires were distributed. The return rate was 97% (n = 301). All data processing and statistical analysis was performed using the software SPSS 19. For analysis data, correlative coefficients and factor analysis were used.\r\nBased on the results of factor analysis the factors were categorized into seven main ','Marketing management, Factor Analysis, Summer crop farmers.','Based on the results of factor analysis the factors were categorized into seven main components, which have been named supportive factor, infrastructure factor, technical factor, economical factor, information and communication factor, extension and educational factor and participational factor. The obtained results from the factor analysis revealed that the seven mentioned factors explained 70.372% of the variation of affecting factors on marketing management. Thus, the policy makers must be considering the items of these factors.\r\nThese items include:\r\nSupportive factor: \r\n-Control the prices of products by the government.\r\n-Providing the facilities and equipment\r\n-Monitoring the market\r\n-Monitoring of imports of products\r\n-Support local cooperatives\r\nInfrastructure factor:\r\n-Exports of agricultural products\r\n-Information systems active in the field marketing\r\n-Infrastructure facilities (cold storage, packaging, processing, etc.)\r\n-Development of investment companies\r\n-Equip fruit an','Marketing management is a business discipline which focuses on the practical application of marketing techniques and the management of a firm\'s marketing resources and activities (Mohan, 2005). Traditionally, a \"market\" was a physical place where buyers and sellers gathered to exchange goods. Now marketers view the sellers as the industry and the buyers as the market (Fig. 1). The sellers send goods and services and communications (ads, direct mail, e-mail messages) to the market; in return they receive money and information (attitudes, sales data) (Kotler, 2002).\r\nThe marketing management process consists of four stages (Kotler, 2004): market research, marketing strategy, planning and implementation, control and evaluation. Marketing research is the systematic and objective search for, and analysis of, information relevant to the identification and solution of any problem in the field of marketing. Marketing strategy is the goal of increasing sales and achieving a sustainable competit','Reza Makvandi, Ahmad Reza Ommani and Mohammad Aghapour (2015). Factor Analysis of Marketing Management among Summer Crop Farmers. Biological Forum â€“ An International Journal 7(1): 69-72.'),(4104,'117','Effects of Diets Formulation Based on Different Methods of Metabolisable Energy (AMEn & TMEn) and Amino Acids (TAA & DAA) Expression on Performance, Energy and Protein Efficiency Ratio and Productive Efficiency Factor of Broiler Chicks','Pouya Yari, Akbar Yaghobfar, Habib Aghdam Shahryar, Yahya Ebrahimnezhad and Sara Mirzaie Goudarzi\r\n','14 HABIB AGHDAM SHAHRYAR @YARI.pdf','',1,'A total of 720 Arian chicks were used in this study to determine the effects of diets formulation based on different expression systems of energy and amino acids of feeds and requirements on performance, relative efficiency of energy and protein and productive efficiency factor. Four diets were arranged in a 2 Ã— 2 factorial design with 2 systems of energy expression (AMEn and TMEn) and 2 methods of amino acids requirement (TAA and DAA) from 1 to 42 days of age. Each treatment was replicated six times with each replicate consisting of 15 males and 15 females. The results showed that when the feed formulation was based on TMEn increased feed intake and growth rate compared with AMEn (p<0.05). Productive efficiency and body weight increased when digestible amino acid were used to expression of amino acid of feeds and requirements. But the feed conversion ratio decreased by AMEn system (p<0.05). It is concluded that use of TMEn and DAA methods to feed formulation could improve the perfor','Diets formulation, performance, Arian broilers','Considering the results of this research can be said that the use of lower energy levels (diet formulation based on TMEn) and amino acid digestibility coefficients applying for regulation of broiler chicken diets, can yield more appropriate productive efficiency. The no improvement of growth of Arian strain with high energy level diets can be attributed to poor genetic potential of this to extracting high energy levels from feeds. Although this hypothesis demands further genetic and nutritional research.','Most of the costs in poultry industry is related to nutrition. Among dietary factors, the highest proportion of costs devoted to energy and protein. Therefore, it is necessary pay special attention to expression and supply of energy and protein requirements of poultry. Nutritionists should use all possible ways to improve the nutritional condition, performance and economic efficiency. Among these is the way to choose the appropriate method for diet formulation. Although over feeding, the one hand causing ensure the supply of nutrients to the bird, but on the other hand can reduced performance and economic efficiency. Increase intake of protein or amino acids, leading to reduced yields due to increased blood uric acid, so dissipated the energy. The over feeding of energy, increase production costs and body fat, so reduce efficiency (Leeson and Summers, 200','Pouya Yari, Akbar Yaghobfar, Habib Aghdam Shahryar, Yahya Ebrahimnezhad and Sara Mirzaie Goudarzi (2015). Effects of Diets Formulation Based on Different Methods of Metabolisable Energy (AMEn & TMEn) and Amino Acids (TAA & DAA) Expression on Performance, '),(4105,'117','Salicylic Acid and Plant Immunity','Baratali Fakheri and Farshad Fattahi','15 BARATALI FAKHERI AND FARSHAD FATTAHI.pdf','',1,'The plant immune system consists of two interconnected tiers of receptors, one outside and one inside the cell. Both systems sense the intruder, respond to the intrusion and optionally signal to the rest of the plant and sometimes to neighboring plants that the intruder is present. Salicylic Acid (SA) is one of a wide variety of phenolic compounds bearing a hydroxyl group or its derivative that are synthesized by plants. The strongest evidence supporting SAâ€™s role as a critical defense signal has come from analyses of plants in which endogenous SA levels were altered. The first of these studies utilized transgenic tobacco or Arabidopsis expressing the bacterial nahG gene, encoding the SA-metabolizing enzyme salicylate hydroxylase. SA treatment was subsequently found to induce PR (pathogenesis-related) gene expression and/or resistance to viral, bacterial, and fungal pathogens in many plant species. It induced the same set of genes in tobacco and Arabidopsis as was activated during SA','Plant Immunity, Salicylic Acid, systemic resistance, SAR (systemic acquired resistance).','The plant immune system consists of two interconnected tiers of receptors, one outside and one inside the cell. Both systems sense the intruder, respond to the intrusion and optionally signal to the rest of the plant and sometimes to neighboring plants that the intruder is present. Salicylic Acid (SA) is one of a wide variety of phenolic compounds bearing a hydroxyl group or its derivative that are synthesized by plants. The strongest evidence supporting SAâ€™s role as a critical defense signal has come from analyses of plants in which endogenous SA levels were altered. The first of these studies utilized transgenic tobacco or Arabidopsis expressing the bacterial nahG gene, encoding the SA-metabolizing enzyme salicylate hydroxylase. SA treatment was subsequently found to induce PR (pathogenesis-related) gene expression and/or resistance to viral, bacterial, and fungal pathogens in many plant species. It induced the same set of genes in tobacco and Arabidopsis as was activated during SA','Plant disease resistance is crucial to the reliable production of food, and it provides significant reductions in agricultural use of land, water, fuel and other inputs. Plants in both natural and cultivated populations carry inherent disease resistance, but this has not always protected them. The late blight Irish potato famine of the 1840s was caused by the oomycete Phytophthora infestans. The worldâ€™s first mass-cultivated banana cultivar Gros Michel was lost in the 1920s to Panama disease caused by the fungus Fusarium oxysporum. The wheat stem, leaf, and yellow stripe rust epidemics spreading from East Africa into the Indian subcontinent were caused by rust fungi Puccinia graminis and P. striiformis. Other epidemics include Chestnut blight, as well as recurrent severe plant diseases such as Rice blast, Soybean cyst nematode, Citrus canker (Dangl et al., 2013).\r\nPlant pathogens can spread rapidly over great distances, vectored by water, wind, insects, and humans. Across large regio','Baratali Fakheri and Farshad Fattahi (2015). Salicylic Acid and Plant Immunity. Biological Forum â€“ An International Journal 7(1): 79-84.'),(4106,'117','The Hydraulic Design of the Grit Chamber of the Urmia Wastewater Treatment Plant with Hydraulic Approach','Edris Merufinia and Hadi Naveh','16 EDRIS MERUFINIA AND HADI NAVEH.pdf','',1,'The main objectives of the treatment plant are reducing pollutant substances and reusing them for various applications. Due to amount of inlet sewage, one can say that whatever volume of inlet sewage increases, the accuracy of calculations and designing rises and operation of it is done in best possible way. Hydraulic designing of each system has many advantages with minimum need to pumping systems and based on using natural slope of land and gravity motion of flow. The aim of providing hydraulic flow in wastewater treatment plants is evaluating speed, capacity and eventually height drops per unit and determining hydraulic profile of the sewage surface. The wastewater treatment plant of Urmia city is designed with Biolac system. This process is under monopoly of German companies. The initial and secondary sedimentation systems are designed seamlessly and rectangular which is separated by a polyethylene separator baffles each other. In this study we have attempt to reform the system of ','Initial Sedimentation, Biolac System, Hydraulic Designing, Urmia','The main objectives of the treatment plant are reducing pollutant substances and reusing them for various applications. Due to amount of inlet sewage, one can say that whatever volume of inlet sewage increases, the accuracy of calculations and designing rises and operation of it is done in best possible way. Hydraulic designing of each system has many advantages with minimum need to pumping systems and based on using natural slope of land and gravity motion of flow. The aim of providing hydraulic flow in wastewater treatment plants is evaluating speed, capacity and eventually height drops per unit and determining hydraulic profile of the sewage surface. The wastewater treatment plant of Urmia city is designed with Biolac system. This process is under monopoly of German companies. The initial and secondary sedimentation systems are designed seamlessly and rectangular which is separated by a polyethylene separator baffles each other. In this study we have attempt to reform the system of ','All the communities in daily activities produce waste substances that may be solid, liquid or gas form. Liquid waste materials are so-called sewers or sewage. Sewer is the water that is contaminated by various applications. About 99.9 percentage of sewers is water and only about 0.1 percentage of it is consist of impurities such as suspended solids substance and colloidal and solution ) Nadafi 2011).\r\nWastewater is not just sewage. All the water used in the home that goes down the drains or into the sewage collection system is wastewater. This includes water from baths, showers, sinks, dishwashers, washing machines and toilets. Small businesses and industries often contribute large amounts of wastewater to sewage collection systems; others operate their own wastewater treatment systems. In combined municipal sewage systems, water from storm drains is also added to the municipal wastewater stream. Wastewater is about 99 percent water by weight and is generally referred to as influent as','Edris Merufinia and Hadi Naveh (2015). The Hydraulic Design of the Grit Chamber of the Urmia Wastewater Treatment Plant with Hydraulic Approach . Biological Forum â€“ An International Journal 7(1): 85-93.'),(4107,'117','Condition Monitoring of Energy usage and CO2 emission for Greenhouse Cucumber in Iran ','Ahmad Reza Alizadeh, Mehdi Ghorbani and Mohammad Ghareghani','17 AHMAD REZA ALIZADEH @ROZITA.pdf','',1,'The aims of this study were to determine the energy consumption and survey on environmental pollution of greenhouse cucumber in Golshan region, Isfahan province of Iran. For this purpose data were collected from 30 farms using a face to face questionnaire. The results revealed that total energy input for greenhouse cucumber production was found to be 163994 MJha-1 that the share of non-renewable energy form (94%) was more than renewable energy form (6%). Fossil fuel has the highest share by 45% followed by total fertilizers and electricity. Energy ration, energy productivity, and net energy were 0.38, 0.45 kgMJ-1 and -101498MJha-1, respectively. The results also showed the share of indirect and renewable energy is very low. The results of CO2 emission analyzes showed that the diesel fuel had the highest share of total CO2 emission for greenhouse cucumber production. The total amounts of CO2 emission were 6.8 tonha-1. This result is very clearly shows that the use of fossil fuel is very','Energy Use; Energy Efficiency; CO2 emission; wheat, Cucumber','The aims of this study were to determine the energy consumption and survey on environmental pollution of greenhouse cucumber in Golshan region, Isfahan province of Iran. For this purpose data were collected from 30 farms using a face to face questionnaire. The results revealed that total energy input for greenhouse cucumber production was found to be 163994 MJha-1 that the share of non-renewable energy form (94%) was more than renewable energy form (6%). Fossil fuel has the highest share by 45% followed by total fertilizers and electricity. Energy ration, energy productivity, and net energy were 0.38, 0.45 kgMJ-1 and -101498MJha-1, respectively. The results also showed the share of indirect and renewable energy is very low. The results of CO2 emission analyzes showed that the diesel fuel had the highest share of total CO2 emission for greenhouse cucumber production. The total amounts of CO2 emission were 6.8 tonha-1. This result is very clearly shows that the use of fossil fuel is very','In order to maximize the efficiency of modern agricultural technology to farms in a target region, the farming system of the region should be first characterized, especially to identify possible resource constraints and to capture the diversity of farming systems (Zangeneh et al., 2010). Currently, agricultural operations have to adapt to a more competitive environment and consequently, use new intelligent technologies (Mahmoud, 2004). Hydroponics and greenhouse production are the way of obtaining profitable crops (Nelson, 2002). A sustainable crop production system requires keeping a high-quality harvest, while keeping energy and raw material consumption low.\r\nThe agricultural sector is an important energy consumer. Farmers have an option for reducing energy use by investing in intelligent systems (Kornerand Straten, 2008). The high rate of population growth and reducing the extent of fertile land due to the increasing development of urban and industrial areas induce more efficient us','Ahmad Reza Alizadeh, Mehdi Ghorbani and Mohammad Ghareghani (2015). Condition Monitoring of Energy usage and CO2 emission for Greenhouse Cucumber in Iran . Biological Forum â€“ An International Journal 7(1): 94-99.'),(4108,'117','Study of the Chromosome of Aphids of Family Rosaceae','Ritu Sharma and Nitesh Kumar','18 RITU SHARMA AND NITESH KUMAR.pdf','',1,'Hamirpur district is the smallest district of Himachal Pradesh. This region act as good hot spot for the diverse flora and fauna. This region is fall of horticulture and agricultural plant varieties of economic interest with in the prosperity related to the horticulture and agricultural field, there is occurrence of some damage causing pests. Among these pests, aphids are prominent in this region. So this paper reveals the chromosomal study of four aphids of plant species of rosaceae family.','Aphids, Chromosome, Horticulture, Pest, Hamirpur.',' From this study, it has been concluded that the Aphid chromosome shows many variations. This study may help in determining the adaptability of Aphid species occurring in the common plants. And it also helps in ascertaining the evolution of their karyotypes. ','Aphids are tiny insect pests. They are of great economic importance. They are the damage causing pests to our horticultural and agricultural crops. They cause damage to the plants by lucking their sap and also transmit the viral diseases. The aphid life cycle shows some characteristic features like cyclic parthenogenesis, viviparity and polymorphism because of these phenomenon the aphids can multiply with a high rate and thus they build a large population in a very less time (Dixon 1985).\r\nCytological mechanism in aphids is somewhat typical but of great interest due to holocentric nature of chromosome. Type in aphids sex is of XX-XO type. Sex determination in the aphids is determined on the basis of behavior of the sex chromosomes in the oocyte which is developing. The phenomenon of spermatogenesis in the aphids starts is during the developmental stages. But it is completed before the aphids become adult. Pre-reductional and post reductional meiotic divisions reported in aphids is diff','Ritu Sharma and Nitesh Kumar (2015). Study of the Chromosome of Aphids of Family Rosaceae .Biological Forum â€“ An International Journal 7(1): 100-105.'),(4109,'117','Survey on Fecal Gastrointestinal Parasitic Helminthes in Horses of Jokey clubs in Ardabil city, Iran','Selebafmayani Ali and Garedaghi Yagoob','19 SELEBAFMAYANI ALI AND GAREDAGHI YAGOOB.pdf','',1,'This study aimed to estimate infection prevalence of strongyle, Oxyurisequi and Parascaris equorum species and intensity of infection with strongyles in horses of jokey clubs in Ardabil city, Iranand investigate associations between infection and horse age, sex and owner-reported use of anthelmintics. In a cross-sectional survey, fresh fecal samples were obtained from 50 randomly selected horses and worm egg counts performed using a validated field laboratory kit. Details of anthelmintic use were collected using a standardised face-to-face owner questionnaire. Infection prevalence estimates for each species were calculated, as were infection intensity estimates for strongyle species. Logistic regression was used to investigate associations between exposure variables and infection status/intensity. Prevalence of strongyle infection was 34% (17:50) in this survey. Cylicostephanuslongibur satus, Cylicostephanusgoldi and Cylicocyclusnassatus were founded species of gastrointestinal parasit','Gastrointestinal, parasitic helminthes, horses, Ardabil city, Iran.','In conclusion, strongyle infection is endemic in horses of jokey clubs in Ardabil city, Iran but proprietary equine anthelmintics assist in managing infection. However, access to such products is limited due to economic constraints which must be taken into account when designing viable worming programmes. ','There are an estimated 110 million equines (horses, donkeys, mules) in the developing world (FAOSTAT, 2008) where they provide an essential, widely used resource for traction and under saddle as a means of transport due to economic and/or topographical constraints on motorised alternatives (Ramaswamy, 1994; Gebreab, 1998; Pritchard et al., 2005). A large study looking at the association between poverty and animal disease (Perry et al., 2002) identified gastrointestinal (GI) parasitism as one of the most important problems for equids in developing countries. Studies conducted in Ethiopia and Mexico estimate the prevalence of endoparasite infections at over 90% in horses (Valdez-Cruz et al., 2006; Fikru et al., 2005; Gebreab, 1998) and over 80% in donkeys (Burden et al., 2010; Getachew et al., 2010; du Toit et al., 2008). Gastrointestinal parasite burdens also seem to be substantial in donkeys in The Gambia (Mattioli et al., 1994) and Republic of South Africa (RSA) (Matthee et al., 2000;','Selebafmayani Ali and Garedaghi Yagoob (2015). Survey on Fecal Gastrointestinal Parasitic Helminthes in Horses of Jokey clubs in Ardabil city, Iran . Biological Forum â€“ An International Journal 7(1): 106-110.'),(4110,'112','Validation of Consumption, Assimilation and Conversion Efficiency in Selected Bivoltine Silkworm Hybrids FC1 Ã— FC2 and FC2 Ã— FC1','Suraksha Chanotra*, Avleen Kour, Muzafar Ahmad Bhat and Roopma Gandotra','285 Validation of Consumption, Assimilation and Conversion Efficiency in Selected Bivoltine Silkworm Hybrids Suraksha Chanotra.pdf','',1,'Silkworm Bombyx mori (L.) is one of the most unique holometabolous insect known for production of most versatile silk protein. The growth rate pattern varies significantly from first to last day of the larval period. The current experiment was conducted to assess the exact quantum of food required by silkworm larvae in different instars. For quantification of food required various parameters like growth rate, ingestion and digestion of the larvae for different instars was studied. Selection of silkworm hybrid namely FC1 Ã— FC2 and FC2 Ã— FC1 was made on the basis of its practical demand in most of the bivoltine sericultural area of the country including Jammu and Kashmir. For the current experiment maximum larval growth was recorded during the 5th instar with respect to their weight and length. The data showed that there is logarithmical increase in the larval body weight and length until day 7th of the 5th instar. The maximum larval length was observed on 7th day to be 8.5cm in FC1 Ã','Silkworm, ingesta, digesta, growth, conversion, cocoon, relationship','Results from the present experiment revealed that there is a strong correlation between the quality and quantity of feed supplied and amount of food utilized by the silkworm. Therefore, the silkworm feeding behaviour is found to be related with the morpho-physiological and biochemical attributes of mulberry leaf. The present investigation serves as an initiating point for rationalization of feed quantities for bivoltine silkworm rearing studies specifically under sub-temperate conditions. The results of the current study could be utilized for standardizing the exact amount of feed to be supplied to silkworm larvae during various days of larval instars.','INTRODUCTION\r\nSericulture is the most important agro-based economic enterprise providing profit making opportunities to rural and marginal farmers (Chutia et al., 2014). Silkworm being monophagous insect feeds only on mulberry leaf because of the presence of morin pigment in addition to other compounds (Anonymous, 2013; Hotta, 2017). Food consumption and assimilation is influenced by various biotic and abiotic factors. Under different environment, feeding and nutritional conditions and with ingestion of the same amount of mulberry leaves, the silkworm shows significant difference in its ability to digest, absorb and convert food to body matter. Hence, influence of season, temperature, humidity on food intake, and assimilation and conversion efficiency of the Bombyx mori (L.) is significant. Consumption and assimilation were reported to be significantly higher among the silkworm reared with optimum temperature and humidity ranges, when compared with silkworm exposed to natural climatic ','Suraksha Chanotra, Avleen Kour, Muzafar Ahmad Bhat and Roopma Gandotra (2022). Validation of Consumption, Assimilation and Conversion Efficiency in Selected Bivoltine Silkworm Hybrids FC1 Ã— FC2 and FC2 Ã— FC1. Biological Forum â€“ An International Journa'),(4111,'112','Arbuscular Mycorrhizal Fungal Diversity and Root Colonization in Pisum sativum','Aishwarya, Manjula, Payal, Shivani Kaundal, Ravinder Kumar, Ritika Singh4, Shubhi Avasthi and Ajay K. Gautam*\r\n','286 Arbuscular Mycorrhizal Fungal Diversity and Root Colonization in Pisum sativum Ajay K. Gautam.pdf','',1,'Arbuscular mycorrhizal fungi (AMF) are soil fungi which form a mutualistic symbiosis with the roots of plants and enhanced uptake of immobile nutrients from the soil. The present study was carried out to study the association of arbuscular mycorrhizal fungi (AMF) with roots and rhizosphere of pea (Pisum sativum). A total of 17 AMF fungi belonging to 5 genera 17 species were isolated and identified from the rhizosphere soil. The dominant genus was Glomus (6 species), followed by Acaulospora (5 species); Boletus, Gigaspora (3 species), Scutellospora (2 species) and Sclerocystis represented by single species. Microscopic analyses of root samples revealed a variable degree of colonization by AM fungi. The different microscopic characters like size, colour, details of the wall layers and the nature of their subtending hyphae were also investigated to during this study.','AM fungi, pea, root colonization, Mid-hill conditions, Himachal Pradesh','In conclusion, the present study was focused mainly on investigation of pea (Pisum sativum L.) roots and rhizosphere soil samples for the association of Arbuscular Mycorrhizal fungi. As pea is one of the major commercial crop of mid hill regions of Himachal Pradesh and the associations of AM Fungi in general may be useful to improve soil microbial status and overall performance of these plants. considering the importance of pea as commercial crop and usefulness of AM fungi, further studies should be focused on the evaluation of dominant mycorrhizal fungi association with agricultural crops and impact on plant growth and metabolite production.','INTRODUCTION\r\nPea (Pisum sativum L.) is a common leguminous crop belonging to the family â€œFabaceae. â€œFabaâ€ comes from Latin word which simply means â€œbeansâ€. It is third most important pulse crop commonly grown worldwide over six-million-hectare area. The major pea producing countries of the world are Germany, Italy, China and Canada followed by India, Australia, and the United States. France, Canada and Australia are major exporters of pea as they utilize over two million hectares of land area for pea cultivation. As per FAO Stat. (2014), pea occupies 4th position (10.53%) in area under cultivation and 5th position in total production (6.96%). Like other countries of the world, India also occupies a key position in pea production. Uttar Pradesh is the major pea growing state of India, produces about 49 % of total pea produced. In addition, Madhya Pradesh, Bihar and Maharashtra are also the major pea growing states of the country. Himachal Pradesh, a hilly state of India occup','Aishwarya, Manjula, Payal, Shivani Kaundal, Ravinder Kumar, Ritika Singh, Shubhi Avasthi and Ajay K. Gautam (2022). Arbuscular Mycorrhizal Fungal Diversity and Root Colonization in Pisum sativum. Biological Forum â€“ An International Journal, 14(1): 1626'),(4112,'117','Environmental Problems in Iran\'s Law','Abbas Taghvaee, Seyedeh Masoumeh Khodashanas and Hamid Gholamalizadeh','20 ABBAS TAGHVAEE.pdf','',1,'As we know issues related to and due to the destruction of the environment have caused a lot of limitations for the life of human beings, and these problems have been noticed as having global dimensions by researchers from different fields such as international law and even international organizations including the United Nations. On the one hand, the growth of international law in this realm without considering it in the domain of the domestic law of countries is impossible, and on the other hand as countries notice these issues in their domestic laws, they should also pay attention to such problems in regional agreements and international treaties-based on their domestic laws. So while these problems threaten the earth and the global society and the need for global endeavors to face them is necessary, the underlying requirement of this issue is the attention of domestic laws of countries to these problems. Regarding this the practices of the domestic laws of our country concerning th','Environmental issues, Iran\'s law, Constitution, Ordinary laws, International environmental treaties','The importance of environmental; problems has prompted the discussion of these cases in domestic and international law. Since the development of these cases in international law is more noticeable, it seems that the study of the view of domestic laws of countries regarding these issues is necessary because they require public strategies and international cooperation. On the other hand, the attention of countries to these issues in cooperation and international treaties is observable whose development is based on the development of domestic laws of countries in this regard. The study of the collection of domestic laws and international treaties regarding this issue show that Iran is among countries which attends to environmental issues either in its domestic or international law. However, the domain of environmental problems in our country like other countries is expanding. So we propose the following criteria:\r\na. Increasing environmental laws in terms of quality and quantity for provi','Noticing the increasing importance of environmental problems in our time, the close observation of the aspects of these problems and how-to-face them in domestic laws of counties and international rules has gained vital importance. Problems such as global warming, acid rains, oil and nuclear pollutions, extinction of some of living species, floods, the destruction of the ozone layer, etc. have gained such importance that are called the \'second generation of environmental problems\' (Mirzaee Yangajeh, 1371: 91) and the full recognition of domestic and international environments is impossible without considering them; moreover, the convergence of world countries to face them is necessary (Doerty and Faltezgraph, 1372: 101-133/1). The analysis of the mentioned issues in domestic laws of countries in order to provide appropriate harmony for growth of such laws in international law is essential. To study all aspects of the environmental issues in domestic laws of Islamic republic of Iran, ','Abbas Taghvaee, Seyedeh Masoumeh Khodashanas and Hamid Gholamalizadeh (2015). Environmental Problems in Iran\'s Law. Biological Forum â€“ An International Journal 7(1): 111-114.'),(4113,'117','Optimization of Greenhouse Gas Emissions for Barley Production in Guilan Province (Iran)','Maral Moraditochaee','21 MARAL MORADITOCHAEE.pdf','',1,'In a world with an increasing urban population, analysing the construction impacts of sanitation infrastructures through Life Cycle Assessment (LCA) is necessary for defining the best environmental management strategies. This study was conducted to assess the impact of barley production on environment under rain fed and watered farming systems in north of Iran. Data was collected using questionnaires and face-to-face interviews with 72 farmers in rural areas during the agricultural year 2011. In watered farming system, total green house gases emissions for barley production were calculated to be 497.7 kgCO2eqha-1. In rain fed farming system, total green house gases emissions for barley production were calculated to be 372.6 kgCO2eqha-1 calculated. Life cycle assessment (LCA) studies can help to develop this long term perspective, linking performance to minimizing the overall energy consumption, use of resources and emissions. ','Barley, Green house gases, watered farming, Rain fed farming.',' In this study, the inputs and output energy requirements for greenhouse barley production on environment under rain fed and watered farming systems were assessed in guilan and regions of Iran using a face to face questionnaire performed with farmers. In rain fed farming system, total green house gases emissions for barley production were calculated to be 372.6 kgCO2eqha-1 calculated. In watered farming system, total green house gases emissions for barley production were calculated to be 497.7 kgCO2eqha-1.\r\n\r\n','Barley (Hordeum vulgare L.) is one of the most important cereal crops of Iran and the world. The yield of Barley has increased twofold because energy consumption in Barley production has increased in recently years. The land area under barley production in Iran is about 1675654 ha which produces 3446228 ton of barley (Azarpour et al., 2013). Iran is ranked the fifth country in the irrigated farming area, however, in the 20th rank, according to the total arable land. In addition, Iran also listed between 7th to 18th countries with the most GHG emission in world according to different reports. Soil erosion is a major environmental threat to the sustainability and productive capacity of agriculture by reduction of soil fertility and loss of nutrients and thus, declines of crop yields in farmlands. Mean annual soil erosion rate in Iran is about 25 tons/ha/year, 4.3 times more than the mean annual soil erosion rate in the world (Rostamian et al., 2008). In a recent report by FAO, water scar','Maral Moraditochaee (2015). Optimization of Greenhouse Gas Emissions for Barley Production in Guilan Province (Iran) . Biological Forum â€“ An International Journal 7(1): 115-118. '),(4114,'117','Optimization of Greenhouse Gas Emissions for Barley Production in Guilan Province (Iran)','Maral Moraditochaee','21 MARAL MORADITOCHAEE.pdf','',1,'In a world with an increasing urban population, analysing the construction impacts of sanitation infrastructures through Life Cycle Assessment (LCA) is necessary for defining the best environmental management strategies. This study was conducted to assess the impact of barley production on environment under rain fed and watered farming systems in north of Iran. Data was collected using questionnaires and face-to-face interviews with 72 farmers in rural areas during the agricultural year 2011. In watered farming system, total green house gases emissions for barley production were calculated to be 497.7 kgCO2eqha-1. In rain fed farming system, total green house gases emissions for barley production were calculated to be 372.6 kgCO2eqha-1 calculated. Life cycle assessment (LCA) studies can help to develop this long term perspective, linking performance to minimizing the overall energy consumption, use of resources and emissions. ','Barley, Green house gases, watered farming, Rain fed farming.',' In this study, the inputs and output energy requirements for greenhouse barley production on environment under rain fed and watered farming systems were assessed in guilan and regions of Iran using a face to face questionnaire performed with farmers. In rain fed farming system, total green house gases emissions for barley production were calculated to be 372.6 kgCO2eqha-1 calculated. In watered farming system, total green house gases emissions for barley production were calculated to be 497.7 kgCO2eqha-1.\r\n\r\n','Barley (Hordeum vulgare L.) is one of the most important cereal crops of Iran and the world. The yield of Barley has increased twofold because energy consumption in Barley production has increased in recently years. The land area under barley production in Iran is about 1675654 ha which produces 3446228 ton of barley (Azarpour et al., 2013). Iran is ranked the fifth country in the irrigated farming area, however, in the 20th rank, according to the total arable land. In addition, Iran also listed between 7th to 18th countries with the most GHG emission in world according to different reports. Soil erosion is a major environmental threat to the sustainability and productive capacity of agriculture by reduction of soil fertility and loss of nutrients and thus, declines of crop yields in farmlands. Mean annual soil erosion rate in Iran is about 25 tons/ha/year, 4.3 times more than the mean annual soil erosion rate in the world (Rostamian et al., 2008). In a recent report by FAO, water scar','Maral Moraditochaee (2015). Optimization of Greenhouse Gas Emissions for Barley Production in Guilan Province (Iran) . Biological Forum â€“ An International Journal 7(1): 115-118. '),(4115,'117','Study Quranic plants in Hadiths','Ebrahim Azarpour, Maral Moraditochaee and Hamid Reza Bozorgi','22 MARAL MORADITOCHAEE.pdf','',1,'The Holy Quran and Hadiths by the Infallible Imams provide broad guidelines concerning the spiritual and material aspects of life. Plants either mentioned in the Holy Quran and hadiths were considered as highly potential medicinal plants. In the research there are the sayings and traditions that somehow represent the miraculous Quranic plants (Manna of hedysarum, Onion or Cepa, Garlic, Black mustard, Camphor, Cucumber, Pumpkin or Gourd or Calabasse, Fig, Lentil, Banana, Royal basil or Sweet basil, Olive, Data plam or Edible date, Pomegranata, Toothbrush tree or Mustard tree, Manna Tree or French Tamarisk, Grape, Ginger and Nabak tree) in the statements of the holy prophet of Islam\'s inmates. In this study, the qualitative research method of content analysis on hadiths with respect to Quranic plants were performed. Then, the collected materials were analyzed. ','Hadiths, Quranic Plants, Holy Imams, Islamic Lifestyle','Health is a religious value, and taking care of it is a responsibility of any Muslim. God has determined some healing agents for treatment. Quranic plants are among these agents. In the current study by the help of Islamic texts (hadiths), this healing power was introduced.','Islam is not only a religion but also a total way of life. It covers every aspect of human endeavour. So when addressing the issue of medication, Islam has a lot to say about it, ranging from its meaning and purpose, to its utilization and efficacy (Akanni, 2013). Diseases and other related ailments are predictable in life and have led man to discover ways by which they could be treated. Plants have always been a successful source of remedy from nature. Such practice is as old as human existence and forms an integral part of traditional medicine. The term medicinal is applied to a plant indicates that it contains a substance or substances which modulate beneficially the physiology of sick mammals and that it has been used by man for that purpose. Today, herbal medicine has gradually become more popular and the need for promoting the related awareness is perceived (Noor Mohammadi and Haji, 2013; Tumpa et al., 2014). On the other hand, in Islamic medicine, Hadiths and narrations the heal','Ebrahim Azarpour, Maral Moraditochaee and Hamid Reza Bozorgi (2015).Study Quranic plants in Hadiths. Biological Forum â€“ An International Journal 7(1): 119-127. '),(4116,'117','Determination of Ecological Diversity Indices to Assess the Interrelationship between Earthworm Diversity and Different Habitats of Indian Botanic Garden, Howrah, India','Rinku Goswami','23 RINKU GOSWAMI.pdf','',1,'Diversity of earthworms was studied in five varied habitats differing in the type of plantation in the field in the Indian Botanic Garden in Howrah, India. It is a unique huge National Botanic Park rich in plant biodiversity with global variety. Twelve species of earthworms identified belonging to seven genera and three families out of a total of 911 individuals collected. Metaphire posthuma was the dominant species among all and was present at all the study sites. The rarest species was Metaphire houlleti available only at the flower garden. Analysis of different Diversity Indices values revealed that maximum species diversity in terms of diversity indices such as Shannon-Wiener index and Simpsons index were found in flower garden (Shannon HÂ´= 0.707; Simpson 1/D = 3.701), while minimum diversity at GBT (HÂ´= 0.414 and 1/D =1.79). Values of Margalefâ€™s index (M = 5.272) and Shannon Evenness Index (J\' = 0.729) were found highest at Conifer plantation area. The species dominance in te','Earthworm, diversity, botanic garden, diversity indices, Howrah, West Bengal','The factors that influence the diversity of earthworm community at a given locality, apart from the type of soil, climate and the available organic resources, are the land use pattern and disturbance (Edwards & Bohlen 1996). Vegetation maintains soil moisture and soil living organism (Widyastuti, 2004). Poor vegetation cover and lack of plant litter in the soil surface tend to reduce the productive habitats. The more productive habitats can support more species (Pianka, 1974). The entire observation clearly indicates the richness of earthworm diversity in the present study site of Indian Botanic Garden, Howrah, Kolkata.','Earthworms are the moist soil dwelling creatures, which make up a large part of total biomass of invertebrates of soil (Soulsby, 1982). They are the members of the class Oligochaeta of Phylum Annelida (Edwards, 2004). Earthworms in the soil act as aerators, grinders, crushers, chemical degraders and biological stimulators (Edwards and Bohlen, 1996) and regulate the soil processes (Ismail 1997). They are found in all types of soils with sufficient moisture and food\r\n(Ghosh,1993).They consume soil organic matter and litter thereby increasing availability of plant nutrients in their casts (Brown et al, 2004) and so used as indicator of the health of soil ecosystems (Edwards and Bohlen, 1996) due to their role in soil fertility through fragmentation and mixing of soil with mineral particles. As ecosystem engineers, earthworms can directly affect the availability of resources to other organisms through modification of the physical environment (Lavelle et al., 1997).\r\nIndia is one of the se','Rinku Goswami (2015). Determination of Ecological Diversity Indices to Assess the Interrelationship between Earthworm Diversity and Different Habitats of Indian Botanic Garden, Howrah, India. Biological Forum â€“ An International Journal 7(1): 128-136.'),(4117,'117','Mineral Dietary Supplement effects on Weight Performance and Physical Characteristics of the Components of Grazing Sheep Carcasses','Fazlallah Azarfard and Shahab Mirinejad','24 FAZLALLAH AZARFARD.pdf','',1,'To investigate the effects of mineral dietary supplement (phosphorus, selenium, and copper) on the weight performance and characteristics of grazing sheep carcasses, 20 sheep with an average weight of 50 Â±5.8 kg and average age of 3Â±0.2 years were studied in Margoon rangeland in kohgiloye-va-Booyerahmad Province of Iran in April-June 2010. Having a completely randomized design, the experiment was done on two 10-sheep groups of control (receiving only salt) and treatment (receiving mineral supplement of phosphorus, selenium, and copper plus salt as a complementary base). At the end of the experiment, 3 sheep were selected from each group and their carcasses performance and characteristics were measured. Regarding the carcass analysis, no significant difference was observed between the control and treatment groups. Therefore, mineral dietary supplement had no significant effect on weight performance and carcass characteristics of sheep grazing on Margoon rangeland. According to the res','mineral supplement, weight performance, carcass characteristics','The results showed that mineral dietary supplement containing copper, selenium, and phosphorus had no significant effect on weight performance and physical characteristics of the components of grazing sheep carcasses in Margoon rangeland. However, the treatment group (fed with mineral supplement) showed higher average hot and cold carcass weights, cold carcass yield, final weight and daily weight gain compared with the control group. For completion of the results and better analysis, it is recommended to evaluate the effects of the used mineral supplement on pregnancy performance of sheep grazing on Margoon rangeland.','Kohgiloye-va-Booyerahmad province is one of the most important places of sheep grazing in Iran due to its climate and topography. Sheep breeding is not industrial in this province and is typically rural and nomadic and depends on the rangeland for forage. For livestock grazing, forage is the most important source of energy, protein, vitamins, and minerals. In this province, like many other parts of the country, most of grazing livestock do not get mineral supplements except salt and supply of mineral is exclusively done through the livestock forage intake; However, forage can rarely provide the needed amount of minerals. In Iran, little attention has been paid to the use of mineral supplements in grazing animals and no study has been conducted on the effects of mineral supplements in Kohgiloye-va-Booyerahmad province yet. According to the Kohgiloye-va-Booyerahmad province Veterinary Office reports (2004), some physiological and physical characteristics such as wool loss, weight loss, l','Fazlallah Azarfard and Shahab Mirinejad (2015). Mineral Dietary Supplement effects on Weight Performance and Physical Characteristics of the Components of Grazing Sheep Carcasses. Biological Forum â€“ An International Journal 7(1): 137-141.'),(4118,'117','Effects of Growth Regulators on In vitro Callogenesis of \r\nTaxus baccata L.\r\n','Nafiseh Mahdinejad, Barat Ali Fakheri and Sina Ghanbari','25 SINA GHANBARI.pdf','',1,'Interest in over exploitation, possibly illegal, of the existing resources of Taxus has been intensified with the discovery of Taxol which is identified as one of the most promising anti-cancer drugs. In recent years, plant tissue culture techniques have become a powerful tool for the propagation of many plant species. In this research weight of callus was analyzed to determination of appropriate medium culture. This study was performed in complete randomized design with three replicated in 2014. The MS medium culture was contains NAA and Kinetin hormones. ANOVA showed significant difference at 1% probability level. Maximum callus weight belongs to 0.25 mg/l Kinetin and 2 mg/l NAA treatment. Therefore, hormones amount which used in this research can induced callus in Taxus baccata L.','Taxus (Taxus baccata), Callus, Kinetin, NAA','Interest in over exploitation, possibly illegal, of the existing resources of Taxus has been intensified with the discovery of Taxol which is identified as one of the most promising anti-cancer drugs. In recent years, plant tissue culture techniques have become a powerful tool for the propagation of many plant species. In this research weight of callus was analyzed to determination of appropriate medium culture. This study was performed in complete randomized design with three replicated in 2014. The MS medium culture was contains NAA and Kinetin hormones. ANOVA showed significant difference at 1% probability level. Maximum callus weight belongs to 0.25 mg/l Kinetin and 2 mg/l NAA treatment. Therefore, hormones amount which used in this research can induced callus in Taxus baccata L. ','Interest in over exploitation, possibly illegal, of the existing resources of Taxushas been intensified with the discovery of Taxol which is identified as one of the most promising anti-cancer drugs (Heinstein 2006). Taxus is propagated by seeds and rooted cuttings though these methods are slow and would not conserve the plant traits people value. In vitro culture of Taxus has been reported mainly through embryo culture and somatic embryogenesis. The estimated need of Taxol per year is 250 kg of the purified drug that need 750,000 trees. The ever increase demand of Taxol in the treatment of cancer need a large source of plants for extraction. Therefore, Taxus is exposed to the risk of extension (Liao et al, 2006). Many studies on in-vitro regeneration of Taxus species viz. Taxus cuspidata, Taxus baccata, Taxus media, Taxus canadensis (Globa et al, 2009), Taxus brevifolia (Chee, 1995a), TaxuswallichianaZUCC (Hien et al, 2004) have been undertaken earlier. So, alternative biotechnologica','Nafiseh Mahdinejad, Barat Ali Fakheri and Sina Ghanbari (2015). Effects of Growth Regulators on In vitro Callogenesis of Taxus baccata L. Biological Forum â€“ An International Journal 7(1): 142-145.\r\n'),(4119,'117','Impact of Integrated Chawki Rearing Technology on Cocoon Production of Muga Silkworm, Antheraea assamensis Helfer','D. Goswami, N.I. Singh, Mustaq Ahmed, Rajesh Kumar, D. Mech and K. Giridhar','26 DR RAJESH KUMAR.pdf','',1,'In muga culture, high mortality of larvae occurred particularly in the early stage of rearing to the tune of 15 to 25 %. The present paper examines the impact of adoption of integrated chawki (1st to 3rd instar larvae) rearing technology as a strategy for improving muga cocoon production in India. During Jethua Crop (May-June), the cocoon yield of the farmers who adopted the technology ranged from 4552 to 6178 per 100 disease free laying (dfl) while in the traditional lot, it ranged from 4020 to 5490 per 100 dfl. It was observed that increase in cocoon yield in the technology adopted lots over that of control lot ranged from 8.07 % to 17.02 %. Similarly, during Kotia crop (October-November), the cocoon yield of the farmers who adopted the technology ranged from 4367 to 6215 per 100 disease free laying (dfl) while in the control lot, it ranged from 3970 to 5624 per 100 dfl. During this crop, increase in cocoon yield of the treated lot over that of control ranged from 6.70 % to 18.62 %.','Antheraea assamensis Helfer, chawki rearing technology.','In muga culture, high mortality of larvae occurred particularly in the early stage of rearing to the tune of 15 to 25 %. The present paper examines the impact of adoption of integrated chawki (1st to 3rd instar larvae) rearing technology as a strategy for improving muga cocoon production in India. During Jethua Crop (May-June), the cocoon yield of the farmers who adopted the technology ranged from 4552 to 6178 per 100 disease free laying (dfl) while in the traditional lot, it ranged from 4020 to 5490 per 100 dfl. It was observed that increase in cocoon yield in the technology adopted lots over that of control lot ranged from 8.07 % to 17.02 %. Similarly, during Kotia crop (October-November), the cocoon yield of the farmers who adopted the technology ranged from 4367 to 6215 per 100 disease free laying (dfl) while in the control lot, it ranged from 3970 to 5624 per 100 dfl. During this crop, increase in cocoon yield of the treated lot over that of control ranged from 6.70 % to 18.62 %.','Sericulture is a labour oriented, low investment, agrarian small scale industry which suits both marginal and small land holders because of its high returns, short gestation period, and it creates opportunity for own family employment round the year. Sericulture serves as an important tool for rural reconstruction, benefiting the weaker sections of the society (Lakshmanan et al., 1998). Muga culture like other forms of sericulture is an industry that is characterized by a three-step process, the cultivation of food plants- som (Persea bombycina Kost) and Soalu (Litsea monopetala) trees, the rearing of silkworms on these leaves to produce cocoons and the production of silk threads and fabrics. North east India- the indigenous home of muga silkworm, Antheraea assamensis Helfer has a long history in muga cocoon and silk production but muga silk productivity in the country is low due to lack of adoption of improved technologies. Lack of awareness of new technologies at the farmersâ€™ leve','D. Goswami, N.I. Singh, Mustaq Ahmed, Rajesh Kumar, D. Mech and K. Giridhar (2015). Impact of Integrated Chawki Rearing Technology on Cocoon Production of Muga Silkworm, Antheraea assamensis Helfer. Biological Forum â€“ An International Journal 7(1): 146-'),(4120,'117','Reaction 2-Benzyl 5-Oxo 5-H 6-Ethyl carboxylate 7-phenyl -1,3,4-thiadiazolo- [3,2-a]- pyrimidine with Amin derivatives and study of Biological properties','Reza Moradivalikboni, Sedigheh Tahereh Asadzadeh, Mehdi Baghernejad, Zabialah Heidarnezhad and Heshmatollah Alinezhad\r\n','27 REZA MORADIVALIKBONI.pdf','',1,'In this paper explain preparation of 2-Benzyl 5-Oxo 5-H 6 -R-amide derivatives 7-phenyl 1,3,4-thiadiazolo-[3,2-a]- pyrimidine through reaction of 2-Benzyl 5-Oxo 5-H 6- Ethyl Carboxilate 7- phenyl -1, 3,4 -thiadiazolo-[3,2-a]- pyrimidine with aminderivatives. The reactions are completed in Very short time with high yield. Interest in the synthesis of pyrimidine derivatives is due to their biological activities. The structures of all the newly synthesized compounds had been identified by elemental analysis, set NMR, 13C, IR- spectroscopy.','2-Benzyl 5-Oxo 5-H 6 -R-amide derivatives, pyrimidine, amin derivatives, Preparation , yield â€“Spectroscopy','In the present work, we design and discover a new class of 2-Benzyl5-Oxo 5-H 6-Amide derivatives7-phenyl 1 ,3,4- thiadiazolo- [3,2-a]- pyrimidine. The preliminary results showed that most of this synthesis ,various alcohol have been employed as a mild and highly efficient solvent system for the convenient preparation of 2- Benzyl 5-Oxo 5-H 6- Amide derivatives7-phenyl -1,3,4-thiadiazolo- [3,2-a]- pyrimidine in excellent yields from 2- Benzyl 5-Oxo 5-H 6-ethylcarboxylate 7-phenyl 1 ,3,4- thiadiazolo- [3,2-a]- pyrimidine and amin derivatives. The advantages include low cost, mild reaction conditions and with excellent yields. The antimicrobial activity of 2-Benzyl5-Oxo 5-H 6-Amide derivatives7-phenyl 1,3,4- thiadiazolo- [3,2-a]- pyrimidine (1-8) was studied with respect to a series of test microbes.\r\nThe data obtained show that compounds 2- Benzyl 5-Oxo 5-H 6- amid diravatives7-phenyl -1,3,4-thiadiazolo- [3,2-a]- pyrimidine, have antimicrobial such','The introduction of a substituent at position 6 of the 1,3,4-thiadiazolo- [3,2-a] pyrimidine system efficiently enhances the physiological activity of the molecule [1-3]. This replacement occurs in the reactions of 1,3,4 â€“thiadiazolo- [3,2-a]- pyrimidine derivatives with electrophiles [4-10]. During recent years there have been intense investigations on fused thiadiazole systems. Literature survey revealed that 1,3,4- thiadiazolo-[3,2-a]- pyrimidine nucleus is associated with diverse pharmacodynamic and chemotherapeutic activities[11-19] including antimicrobial and antitumor activities. Pyrimidine derivatives have been found to be associated with diverse biological activities and numerous reports have appeared in the literature [20-22]. This highlighted their chemistry and use. The pyrimidine derivatives have Remarkable pharmacological activity [23,24] and widely used in the field of anti-microbial, antiviral, etc. O','Reza Moradivalikboni, Sedigheh Tahereh Asadzadeh, Mehdi Baghernejad, Zabialah Heidarnezhad and Heshmatollah Alinezhad (2015).Reaction 2-Benzyl 5-Oxo 5-H 6-Ethyl carboxylate 7-phenyl -1,3,4-thiadiazolo- [3,2-a]- pyrimidine with Amin derivatives and '),(4121,'117','Perceived usefulness and Perceived Ease of Use for Adoption Technology LCC Card: Case Study Paddy Farmers Northern Iran','Dariush Ashoori, Seyyed Ali Noorhosseini and Reza Alishiri','28 SEYYED ALI NOORHOSSEINI-1.pdf','',1,'This study examined the Paddy Farmer perceived usefulness and ease of use of the technology LCC cards of villages Roudsar city in northern Iran, was conducted in 2013. Statistical population of all rice farmers were living in the city Roudsar province (15693 people). Sample size for this study comprised 400 patients who were randomly selected. The main tool for data collection was a questionnaire containing closed questions. Content validity of (apparent) questionnaire was determined by university faculty experts and Agricultural Organization. Validity of the questionnaire, 30 questionnaires was distributed among the study sample, Cronbach\'s alpha value of 0.91 respectively. Data were analyzed using SPSSwin16. Statistical methods were used. Results showed that the highest perceived usefulness of LCC card technology for optimal use of fertilizer was the best and the least necessity for rice fields paddy fields in the LCC cards. Understanding cards LCC technology easier to use in paddy f','Technology, Card LCC, Perceived Usefulness, Perceived Ease of Use.','This study examined the Paddy Farmer perceived usefulness and ease of use of the technology LCC cards of villages Roudsar city in northern Iran, was conducted in 2013. Statistical population of all rice farmers were living in the city Roudsar province (15693 people). Sample size for this study comprised 400 patients who were randomly selected. The main tool for data collection was a questionnaire containing closed questions. Content validity of (apparent) questionnaire was determined by university faculty experts and Agricultural Organization. Validity of the questionnaire, 30 questionnaires was distributed among the study sample, Cronbach\'s alpha value of 0.91 respectively. Data were analyzed using SPSSwin16. Statistical methods were used. Results showed that the highest perceived usefulness of LCC card technology for optimal use of fertilizer was the best and the least necessity for rice fields paddy fields in the LCC cards. Understanding cards LCC technology easier to use in paddy f','Agricultural sector certain features of that in relation to employment and particularly income distribution has always been considered. This section not only for food security is of the country utmost importance, but the supply of raw materials needed for production growth in other sectors related industries can also be effective. In addition, the growth of this sector, the improvement of welfare, income and food security of rural people, who are lower income deciles in the following components and prevent them from migrating to towns and cities are spread marginalization (Mariano et al., 2012). Technological gap in the agricultural sector is one of main problems in the agricultural sector. However, in today\'s domestic and foreign scientific centers in the field of agriculture created Valuable technologies, but many of these technologies by farmers are not used. These issue irreparable problems for the sector and society has created such that it can lower the quality and quantity of th','Dariush Ashoori, Seyyed Ali Noorhosseini and Reza Alishiri (2015). Perceived usefulness and Perceived Ease of Use for Adoption Technology LCC Card: Case Study Paddy Farmers Northern Iran . Biological Forum â€“ An International Journal 7(1): 159-162.'),(4122,'117','Screening of Drought Tolerant genotypes in Bread Wheat \r\n(Triticum aestivum) using Morpho-physiological Traits and \r\nIntegrated Selection Index \r\n','Zahra Moradi, Ezatollah Farshadfar and Hooman Shirvani','29 ZAHRA MORADI @ Hooman Shirvani.pdf','',1,'Drought is one of the major factors limiting crop production in arid and semi-arid regions. In order to identify drought tolerant bread wheat genotypes using agro-morphological traits, physiological criteria and new integrated selection index, 20 bread wheat genotypes were studied in a randomized complete block design (RCBD) with three replications under irrigated and rainfed conditions. The results of ANOVA in the rainfed condition showed significant differences for all the characters investigated except for Chlorophyll a, b (Chl a, Chl b) and relative chlorophyll content (RCC), indicating the presence of genetic variation and possibility of selection for drought tolerant genotypes under drought condition. Dunkanâ€™s multiple rang test revealed that the genotype (18), (15) and (3) had higher grainâ€™s yield while genotypes (10) and (11) exhibited lower value for these trait under rainfed condition. In our study, genotypes (10), (4) and (11) displayed the lowest and genotypes (18), (3)','Bread wheat, Morphological traits, Physiological indicators, Integrated selection index, Water deficit stress condition','Drought is one of the major factors limiting crop production in arid and semi-arid regions. In order to identify drought tolerant bread wheat genotypes using agro-morphological traits, physiological criteria and new integrated selection index, 20 bread wheat genotypes were studied in a randomized complete block design (RCBD) with three replications under irrigated and rainfed conditions. The results of ANOVA in the rainfed condition showed significant differences for all the characters investigated except for Chlorophyll a, b (Chl a, Chl b) and relative chlorophyll content (RCC), indicating the presence of genetic variation and possibility of selection for drought tolerant genotypes under drought condition. Dunkanâ€™s multiple rang test revealed that the genotype (18), (15) and (3) had higher grainâ€™s yield while genotypes (10) and (11) exhibited lower value for these trait under rainfed condition. In our study, genotypes (10), (4) and (11) displayed the lowest and genotypes (18), (3)','Plants are exposed to numerous stress factors during their lives, which is of a significant effect on the growth of plants. Biotic (pathogen, competition with other organisms) and abiotic (drought, salinity, radiation, high temperature or freezing etc.) stresses cause changes in normal physiological functions of all plants, including economically important cereals as well. All these stresses reduce biosynthetic capacity of plants and might cause some destructive damages on the plants (Lichtenhaler, 1996). Drought is a significant limiting factor for agricultural productivity and generally inhibits plant growth through reduced water absorption and nutrient uptake. Decreased water availability generally results in reduced growth and final yield in crop plants. Plant drought tolerance is a highly complex trait that involves multiple genetic, physiological and biochemical mechanisms (Baik and Ullrich, 20008; Erdei et al., 2002). The degree of plant drought tolerance differs not only among ','Zahra Moradi, Ezatollah Farshadfar and Hooman Shirvani (2015). Screening of Drought Tolerant genotypes in Bread Wheat (Triticum aestivum) using Morpho-physiological Traits and Integrated Selection Index. Biological Forum â€“ An International Journal 7(1)'),(4123,'117','Dual Using Irrigation Water in Rice Fields for Fish Farming ','Seyyed Ali Noorhosseini, Dariush Ashoori and Vahid Farzamfar','30 SEYYED ALI NOORHOSSEINI-2.pdf','',1,'This study used the dual purpose of irrigation water used for fish farming in paddy fields in the Guilan province took place. This study was a descriptive survey questionnaire was used to doing it. The study population included 85 experts from the Bureau of Fisheries and Agriculture through random sampling, data collection was attempted. Face validity of the questionnaire was to determine the views of experts. To analyze the data in the study of statistical indicators of frequency, mean, standard deviation, coefficient of variation and Kendall\'s W was used which was made using SPSS16 software. The results showed that the experts of Agriculture and Fisheries Department The applicability of the dual use of water resources for irrigation of rice and fish culture systems coupled totally agree province (Mean = 4.39). And problems of water scarcity and poor water quality in crops of rice and fish combined were raised in moderate to high (Mean = 3.65). Since w Kendall coefficient for the bene','Mixed Cropping of Rice - Fish, Use Dual Water Coefficient, and Kendallâ€™s W, Farmer, and Guilan Province.','The overall results showed that the average ratings That experts Jihad Agriculture and Fisheries Department of With applicability of the dual use of water resources of irrigation in integrated rice-fish farming system fully \r\nagree, and they also problems of water scarcity and inappropriate Water quality in integrated rice-fish farming system in average level and raised upward.\r\nBased on these results, it is suggested that fish farming in along farming is one of the efficient use of water resources. Which also job opportunities and Farm Household-Economics aid and will increasing agricultural and horticultural products and also reduces the quality of irrigation water.\r\n','Given the potential of integrated farming of rice and fish in rice field an easy and low cost activity and if done in principle and technical a substantial amount of fish in rice fields produced positive effects will be useful. Fish farming in rice fields from the water resources planning aspects such as stability, relative stability in land use, Improving the efficiency of production, the balance in the structure of employment, and especially women, to increase productive employment, increase farmers\' income, Increased production in general and protein production In particular, is very important (Noorhosseini and Bagherzadeh, 2012). So far, studies and extensive research in developed countries, on the benefits of this type of farming has been Such as the International Development Research Centre, Canada, Sweden, America and Denmark noted Approximately 2 million dollars for research on rice and fish in Bangladesh, India, Indonesia, Thailand, Vietnam, Malaysia, the Philippines and China','Seyyed Ali Noorhosseini, Dariush Ashoori and Vahid Farzamfar (2015). Dual Using Irrigation Water in Rice Fields for Fish Farming . Biological Forum â€“ An International Journal 7(1): 173-175.'),(4124,'117','Comparative Studies on some Morphometric and Meristic Characteristics of the Scales in four Mugilid species of the family Mugilidae for identifying their Significance in Taxonomy','Zubia Masood, RehanaYasmeen, Faiz-Ur-Rehaman, MuhammadSamee Haider,Lakht-e-Zehra, Md. Yeamin Hossain, Hameed-Ur-Rehman, Asim-Ullah, Waqas Ahmed and Qadeer-Ullah-Shah\r\n','31 ZUBIA MASOOD PAKISTAN.pdf','',1,'The present investigation was based on the comparative studies of some morphometric measurements and meristic counts of the mullet scales i.e., length (TLS) and width (WDS) of scale, number of ctenii arranged in horizontal (HRS) and vertical rows (VRS) on scale, total number of radii (RDS) and the vertical distance between focus and outer posterior margin of scale (Rs) among the four selected mugilid species, i.e., Liza melinoptera, Liza macrolepis, Valamugil speigleri and Mugil cephalus of the family Mugilidae were adopted in order to observe their significance in determining the phylogenetic relationship among these mullet species. As the analysis of the variations between the means of each scale parameter by test statistics (ANOVA, F-statistics) among the four mullet species of this study was found to be highly significant at 5% level (p< 0.05). Thus, the result of the present study had been proved that all these scale characters could be used as useful alternative tools in determi','Scale length, scale width, total number of ctenii and radii, position of the focus.','From the results of morphometric and meristic analysis of mullet scales, it had been concluded that all selected scale characters (such as scale length and width, total number of ctenii arranged in horizontal and vertical rows on scale, total rdii counts and the position of focus) utilized in the present study would be considered as valuable taxonomic characters for determing the systematic relationships among these mullet species. Therefore, the assessment of morphometric and meristic variability of mullet scales of this study will provides a modern tool for the identification of species, population or geographical variants.','Fish scales develop from the dermis of skin that also act as an external tendon that store mechanical energy for producing efficient swimming in fishes [1]. Almost all fishes have scales found on their bodies except few fishes e.g., catfish, in which scales are absent. Tarpon and Mahsheer of India contain large sized scales ranged from 5 to 7 cm in diameter. Very small and minute scales are found in eel fish (Anguilla anguilla). Sometimes, scale features are unique for a particular species. Fish scales can be divided into four main types included 1. Placoid scales that are found in sharks and rays, 2. Ganoid scales that are found in gar and sturgeon fishes, 3. Cosmoid scales are found in lungfish and some fossil fishes, and 4. Leptoid scales are found in majority of bony fishes [2]. Leptoid scales are further divided into two types, i.e., cycloid and ctenoid scales. Mullets or grey mullets contain both types of leptoid scales i.e., cycloid and ctenoid scales. However, Coad [3] and Ha','Zubia Masood, RehanaYasmeen, Faiz-Ur-Rehaman, MuhammadSamee Haider,Lakht-e-Zehra, Md. Yeamin Hossain, Hameed-Ur-Rehman, Asim-Ullah, Waqas Ahmed and Qadeer-Ullah-Shah (2015). Comparative Studies on some Morphometric and Meristic Characteristics of the Scal'),(4125,'117','Influence of Zinc and Seed Inoculation with Rhizobium Bacteria on Yield and Yield Components of Triticum aestivum (Case study: Nurabad, Iran) \r\n','Azam Moradi, Khodabakhsh Panahi Kordlaghari and Kavoos Keshavarz','32 AZAM MORADI, KHODABAKHSH PANAHI KORDLAGHARI AND KAVOOS KESHAVARZ.pdf','',1,'In order to investigate the influence of different levels of zinc and seed inoculation with Rhizobium bacteria on yield and yield components of Triticum aestivum var: chamran, a Factorial experiment in a completely randomized design with six treatments and three replicates were performed in Mamsani, Nurabad, Fars Province, Iran in 2013-2014.â€ The first factor was zinc fertilizer in the form of zinc sulfate in (0, 0.5, 1%) levels and the second factor was Rhizobium bacteria in two levels (non-use and use). The results of the data mean comparisons showed that interaction of Rhizobium and zinc sulfate factors\' had the highest Weight of one Thousand seeds (42.7 kg/ha) and the highest grain yield (kg/ha 4274.8).','Rhizobium, wheat, yield, zinc sulfate ','Based on the results of the data analysis, the effect of Rhizobium bacteria on plant height, spike length, and Weight of one Thousand seeds was significant at 1%, and it was significant on the traits of the number of seeds per square meter and grain yield at 5%. Different levels of zinc sulfate factor were significant on the number of seeds per square meter, Weight of one Thousand seeds, and grain yield at 5%.\r\nDifferent levels of zinc sulfate had no significant effect on plant height and spike length. The results showed that the Rhizobium and zinc sulfate factorsâ€™ interaction had significant effect on plant height at 5%, but had no significant effect on other traits.\r\nThe interaction of Rhizobium and zinc sulfate factors with their highest Weight of one Thousand seeds (42.7 kg/ha) and the highest grain yield (4274.8 kg/ha) are recommended for wheat cultivation in areas with similar climatic conditions to Mamasani\r\n','Population growths in developing countries, food multifariousness, and its over-consumption in developed countries have raised the global demand for food which is historically unprecedented. This and limited crop cultivation have led to problems in food provision and preparation. Food production in recent decades has taken a strategic perspective, and it is directed to increasing crop yield and adequate utilization of the existing agriculture potentials. Man should increase agricultural production for food security. Increase in production is satisfied by increasing the area under cultivation or by increasing the yield per unit area; the first option is very limited and it has contributed to more attention for increasing the yield per unit area (Moradi and Panahi, 2014). \r\nWheat is grown more than any plant in the world, and not only is a staple food, but also politically enjoys the same importance as oil or even a superior stand (Behnia, 1994). Wheat is the main crop in the world in te','Azam Moradi, Khodabakhsh Panahi Kordlaghari and Kavoos Keshavarz (2015). Influence of Zinc and Seed Inoculation with Rhizobium Bacteria on Yield and Yield Components of Triticum aestivum (Case study: Nurabad, Iran) . Biological Forum â€“ An International '),(4126,'117','Effect of Priming of (KNO3, ZnSo4, Distilled water) on rate Germination and Seedling Establishment on Cannabis seed (Cannabis sativa L.)','Shirin Karbalaye Golizadeh, Tooraj Mir Mahmoodi and Nabi Khaliliaqdam','33 TOORAJ MIR MAHMOODI.pdf','',1,'In order to investigate the effect of priming on cannabis seed performance a study was carried out at the Seed Research Laboratory of Azad University, Mahabad, Iran. The experiment was factorial with three factors arranged in a completely randomized design with three replications. The factor was seed priming (KNO3, ZnSo4 and distilled water), and seed cannabis. Results indicated that for both cultivars germination percentage (GP), mean germination rate (MGR), radicle length (RL), plumule length (PL) and seedling dry weight (SDW) were non-significant. Although, the cultivars showed different responses, Results showed that pre treatment with distilled water to increase the percentage of seed germination, root length, seedling dry weight and plumule length.','Establishment seedling, KNO3, Rate germination, Seed vigour index, ZnSo4','Seed priming as a mechanism to increase seedling establishment, especially in adverse condition is presented, were pretreated with water in normal conditions could be more favorable despite the rapidly increases use of these acids had no significant effect was not on the germination of some traits such as germination, root length, seedling dry weight and long plumule.','Cannabis sativa is belonging to the family Cannabinaceae and known by various names worldwide. It is called Marijuana in America. Bhang , Ganja and Charas in India, Kif in North Africa and Brazil, Sodom, Tampl, Gum, Guage, Stuff, Kinshashs, Swala and Whiskt in Ghana, Grifa, in Mexico. Seed priming is a pre-sowing strategy for influencing seedling development by modulating pre-germination metabolic activity prior to emergence of the radicle and generally enhances germination rate and plant performance. Seed priming is soaking of seeds in a solution of any priming agent followed by drying of seeds that initiates germination related processes without radical emergence (McDonald, 2000). There are reports that seed priming permits early DNA replication, increase RNA and protein synthesis, enhances embryo growth, repairs deteriorated seed parts and reduces leakage of metabolites. Seed priming is seen as a viable technology to enhance rapid and uniform emergence, high vigor and better yields','Shirin Karbalaye Golizadeh, Tooraj Mir Mahmoodi and Nabi Khaliliaqdam (2015). Effect of Priming of (KNO3, ZnSo4, Distilled water) on rate Germination and Seedling Establishment on Cannabis seed (Cannabis sativa L.) . Biological Forum â€“ An International '),(4127,'117','Prevalence of Cattle and Buffalo Lung-worm Infestation in Tabriz city, Iran','Alipourazar Mohammad, Garedaghi Yagoob and Hashemzadefarhang Hossein','34 GAREDAGHI YAGOOB.pdf','',1,'Lungworms can result an infection of the lower respiratory tract, usually resulting in verminous bronchitis or verminous pneumonia. The aim of this study was assessment of cattle and buffaloes contamination to lungworms of Tabriz city in Iran in 2013. In this study initially with referring to Tabrizabattoir were selected rejected and apparently healthy lungs by randomly and then sent to parasitology laboratory of veterinary faculty of Tabriz branch, Islamic Azad university. In lab, lungs were opened and contents were isolated. Then with staining of parasites and creating of slides, type of parasite was detected by light microscope. Of 200 collected lungs, were infected 33 cases (16.5%) to hydatid cyst, 95 cases (47.5%) to Dictyocaulus viviparous. also 13 cases (6.5%) of lungs were infected to Linguatula serrata larva. with attention to relatively high contamination rate in Iran, exerting of prevention and treatment measures was recommended.','Cattle and buffalo, Lung-worm, Tabriz, Iran','by comparing of these results with our research results can be conclude that infection rate to pulmonary worms in Tabriz city of Iran is almost high and must be take measures in prevention and treatment fields.','Large ruminants are important domestic animals in tropical livestock production systems (Eslami 1999). They play a great role in food supply, a source of income and foreign currency (Etminani 1980). However, the economic gains from these animals remain insignificant when it is compared to their huge number. This low productivity is a reflection of disease, limited genetic potential and husbandry standard (Gorski et al. 2004). Helminthes of ruminants are ubiquitous and many tropical and sub-tropical environments in the world provide nearly perfect conditions for their survival and development. Lungworms can result an infection of the lower respiratory tract, usually resulting in verminous bronchitis or verminous pneumonia (Gorski and Niznikowski 2004). Lugworms are Protostrong ylids and D. viviparous. Protostrongylids are heteroxenous parasites that infect terrestrial mollusks as intermediate host (Imari 1962) where as D. viviparous has a direct life cycle (Maraqa, 2005). Small and Larg','Alipourazar Mohammad, Garedaghi Yagoob and Hashemzadefarhang Hossein (2015).Prevalence of Cattle and Buffalo Lung-worm Infestation in Tabriz city, Iran. Biological Forum â€“ An International Journal 7(1): 195-198.'),(4128,'117','Effectiveness of Phosphate Solubilizing Bacteria inoculation for Improving Phosphorus Absorption and Root Growth Indices','Farshid Hassani, Ahmad Asgharzade, Mohammadreza Ardakani, Aidin Hamidi and Farzad Paknejad\r\n','35 FARSHID HASSANI.pdf','',1,'The current investigation was conducted to explore the efficiency of using some phosphate solubilizing bacteria in phosphorus absorption, developing of root volume, and dry weight of potato root of Agria cultivar derived from tissue culture. In this experiment, minitubers of tissue culture were inoculated with two strains of Pseudomonas bacterium (Ps116 and Ps173) from species Pseudomonas fluorescens and two genera of bacillus bacterium (Bacillus subtilis and Bacillus megaterium) all along with control treatment as separately and in mixture with each other within factorial experiment based on completely randomized design and in three replications. The results indicated that inoculation with Pseudomonas had significant impact on rate of phosphorus absorption and vegetative parameters in potato root at probability level 1%. The rate of phosphorus absorption and volume of root as well as dry weight of root showed significant difference with inoculation of several specious of Bacillus at l','Pseudomonas, Bacillus, Phosphorus absorption, Potato minituber','It was identified from the results of this study that inoculation of potato tissue cultured minitubers with phosphate solubilizing bacteria may remarkably affect on rising of root volume and more access to wider area from its surrounding environment in order to facilitate absorption process and solution of insoluble and less-soluble nutrient elements including phosphorus and improving nutrient absorption.\r\nThese factors increase potential for efficient and better use of nutrient sources as well as water and optical conditions of light ambient conditions in the plant and cause rising yield of producing minitubers. This significant increase in improvement of reproduction of minitubers is remarkably noticed as a new finding in optimal application of bio-fertilizers technology and it may provide the reduced consumption of chemical products, improvement of quality and health of the produced nutrients and lowering production costs.\r\n','Today, application of bio-fertilizers is crucially important in rising yield of crop production and maintaining sustainable productivity of soil in sustainable agricultural ecosystems. Optimal exploitation from these sources not only affects on soil properties positively, but also useful in terms of economic, social, and environmental aspects and it may serve as a suitable substitute for chemical products (Dodd, 2000; Gosling et al., 2006; Kennedy et al., 2004). \r\nThe phosphate solubilizing bacteria are known as the factors for rising rate of phosphorus absorption that their use in form of bio-fertilizers may improve soil nutritional status, secretion of plant growth regulators, and control of soil-borne diseases and eventually it may lead to better growth and yield in farming plants \r\n(Alagawadi & Gaur, 1992; Gaur et al., 2004; Henri et al., 2008; Verma et al., 2010; Vyas & Gulati, 2009). The results from studies done by many researchers indicate that these materials stimulate','Farshid Hassani, Ahmad Asgharzade, Mohammadreza Ardakani, Aidin Hamidi and Farzad Paknejad (2015). Effectiveness of Phosphate Solubilizing Bacteria inoculation for Improving Phosphorus Absorption and Root Growth Indices .Biological Forum â€“ An Internati'),(4129,'117','Study of Dual-purpose Herbicides Efficacy on Weed control in Turfgrass of Landscape','Elahe Hoseini-shoar and Mohammad Armin','36 MOHAMMAD ARMIN.pdf','',1,'Weed control in lawn is major problem management in urban green space. In order to study the possibility of weed control using dual-purpose herbicides in lawn, an experiment was conducted as Randomized complete block design with three replication at Eram park, Sabzevar in 2013. Treatment were Sulfosulfuron (Apyrous trade name) as 15, 25 and 30 g.ha-1, idosulfuron plus mesosulfuron plus Surfactant (Atlantis OD trade name) as 1, 1.5 and 2 lit.ha-1 with weed control and weedy treatment. Sprayed with herbicides was evaluated at 30 and 60 days after turf emergence. The results showed that Atlantis had undesirable effect on turf. The use of Atlantis herbicides at all concentrations caused the disappearance of grass and one sprayed couldn\'t a good control of weeds. High control performance was in a single spraying of herbicides Apyrous dose of 30 g.ha-1 and a minimum efficiency of herbicides to control the rate of 1 liter per hectare Atlantis.','dual-propose herbicide, Injury, weed control efficacy, lawn','Sulfosulfuron was the safest herbicide tested, injuring Turfgrass less than 40% at 15 g.ha-1 and maintaining high cover ratings relative to other treatments. Examination results showed that spraying at 2 times taking advantage of idosulfuron plus mesosulfuron plus Surfactant herbicide in all examine doses destroyed lawn and spraying at one time could not performed desired controlling of lawn . The most efficiency controlling at one time spraying by Sulfosulfuron herbicide with 30 g.ha-1 had least efficiency controlling. Overall, the results showed that taking advantage of Sulfosulfuron herbicide with 30 g.ha-1 most suitable attendance for lawn weeds controlling.','The lawn is the most important and essential part of the design of greenbelt which has the most important role in reduction of air pollution in urban environments. One of the most difficult of maintenance of lawn is weed control. The presence of weeds in a turfgrass community disrupts the uniformity due to the variability in leaf width, color, and growth habit (Uddin, et al., 2014). Both broadleaf and grassy weeds were founded in lawn area. Weeds in addition to disrupting the smooth texture and a beautiful lawn can cause problems in the pruning (Hephner, et al., 2012). It was reported that weed competition during seeded bermudagrass establishment could cause total failure of turfgrass establishment (Wang, et al., 2003). In lawns the major weeds are: Cynodon dactylon, Digitaria adscendens [Digitaria ciliaris], Eleusine indica, Cyperus rotundus, Kyllinga brevifolia, Kyllinga brevifolia Rottb var., Ageratum conyzoides, Artemisia argyi, Hydrocotyle sibthopioides [Hydrocotyle sibthorpioides','Elahe Hoseini-shoar and Mohammad Armin (2015). Study of Dual-purpose Herbicides Efficacy on Weed control in Turfgrass of Landscape . Biological Forum â€“ An International Journal 7(1): 206-213.'),(4130,'117','Evaluation of Molecular Diversity of durum wheat genotypes using ISSR markers','Zahra Zamanianfard, Alireza Etminan, Reza Mohammadi and Lia Shooshtari','37 ALIREZA ETMINAN.pdf','',1,'In present study, the molecular diversity of twenty five durum wheat genotypes including 21 breeding lines and 3l and races were evaluated using 11inter simple sequence repeat sprimers. The used primers generated 108 fragments, among which 83 bands (about 77%) were polymorphic. A total of 83 polymorphic bands were scored with average 7.54 polymorphic fragments per primer. The average of polymorphism information content index was 0.31, indicating the efficiency of the markers in discrimination of the populations. Cluster analysis based on UPGMA algorithm and Dice similarity coefficient classified the 25 genotypes into four separated groups. The result of principal coordinate analysis (PCoA) was in congruity with cluster analysis.','ISSR, Durum, wheat, landrace','In present study, the molecular diversity of twenty five durum wheat genotypes including 21 breeding lines and 3l and races were evaluated using 11inter simple sequence repeat sprimers. The used primers generated 108 fragments, among which 83 bands (about 77%) were polymorphic. A total of 83 polymorphic bands were scored with average 7.54 polymorphic fragments per primer. The average of polymorphism information content index was 0.31, indicating the efficiency of the markers in discrimination of the populations. Cluster analysis based on UPGMA algorithm and Dice similarity coefficient classified the 25 genotypes into four separated groups. The result of principal coordinate analysis (PCoA) was in congruity with cluster analysis. ','Durum wheat (Triticum turgidum L. var. durum) is a major crop in the Mediterranean basin of West Asia, North Africa, and Southern Europe (Elias and Manthey, 2005). This tetraploid crop (AABB, 2n = 4x = 28) is the most suitable wheat for high quality pasta products because of its high protein content (Von Buren, 2001). The level of genetic diversity in durum wheat is being affected by the high selection pressure applied in breeding programs and the gene pool of durum wheat varieties has been narrowed (Maccaferri et al., 2005). Genetic diversity among genotypes are useful for genetic development of crop plants. Considering the importance of Genetic diversity in reducing genetic vulnerability, the maintenance of variation in an important goal in breeding programs. Assessment of genetic diversity is the first step for efficient management of genetic resources. There are many different methods to evaluate the genetic variation, among which DNA markers are more efficient and reliable. ISS','Zahra Zamanianfard, Alireza Etminan, Reza Mohammadi and Lia Shooshtari (2015). Evaluation of Molecular Diversity of durum wheat genotypes using ISSR markers. Biological Forum â€“ An International Journal 7(1): 214-218.'),(4131,'117','The effects of Solo-potash Foliar application times and Irrigation interval on Quantitative and Qualitative yield of Sorghum','Keyvan Koushki, Mohammad Armin and Esmail Filekesh','38 MOHMMOND ARMIN.pdf','',1,'In order to study the effects of Solo-potash foliar application times and irrigation interval on quantitative and qualitative yield of sorghum, an experiment was conducted as a split plot in a randomized complete block design with three replications. Main factors include irrigation levels (6, 12 and 18 days) and sub-plots were Solo potash foliar application times (control (no foliar application), once, twice and three times (30, 45 and 60 days after plant emergence). The results of the analysis of variance showed that 6 days irrigation interval the most profound effect on plant height, panicle length, number of tillers, fresh weight, dry weight, leaf in plant, fresh yield and biological yield. There is no significant difference between 6 and 12 days irrigation interval. Three times foliar application had the most effect on all traits. Interaction between irrigation interval and foliar application showed that Solo-potash foliar application ameliorated drought stress on sorghum, so t','Foliar application, Solo potash, Drought, Forage sorghum','The results from this study on sorghum, 3 times of foliar pplication of K fertilizer within the sufficiency range (4 â€°) was beneficial in alleviating the effect of drought on the forage yield and vegetative growth of sorghum, since forage yield and vegetative growth increased with increasing of frequency of foliar application of K under water deficit. Increasing of irrigation interval from 6 to 18 days significantly decreased all plant attributes, however 2 or 3 times K spraying improve yield of sorghum, so that forage yield in 6 days irrigation interval as well as 12 days irrigation interval with 3 times foliar application of Solo-potash. ','Lack of water is the main limiting factor for crop production in arid and semi-arid area. Agriculture is the major water consumer in the world today which causes and so much consideration has been focused on decreasing water consumption in agriculture (Haile & Tsegaye, 2002). The major problem that agricultural professionals are facing is improving water management in agriculture which causes water, soil and energy protection and meet the need of increasing community food supply (Kassam, et al., 2007). Agricultural producers are always looking for new ways to reduce water consumption through irrigational management. Finding of new ways to reduce water consumption and increase efficacy of water usage in irrigated agriculture in areas with limited water are important (Yazar, et al., 2009). \r\nThe activities of more than 50 enzymes are dependent on or stimulated by potassium. Potassium is important on hydrocarbon and protein metabolism, photosynthesis, cell division, cell growth and osmo','Keyvan Koushki, Mohammad Armin and Esmail Filekesh (2015). The effects of Solo-potash Foliar application times and Irrigation interval on Quantitative and Qualitative yield of Sorghum . Biological Forum â€“ An International Journal 7(1): 219-224.'),(4132,'117','Evaluation of Genetic Diversity in Durum Wheat Advanced Lines','Soheila Mehdiabadi, Reza Mohammadi, Ali Reza Etminan and Lia hooshtari','40 ALI ETMINAN.pdf','',1,'The present study was conducted to evaluate the genetic diversity within a set of 16 advanced lines of durum wheat (Triticum turgidum) using 9 ISSR primers. A total of 73 polymorphic fragments were scored with average 8.1 polymorphic bands per primer. Cluster analysis using UPGMA method and Dice similarity coefficient categorized the genotypes into 4 separated groups. Estimates of genetic similarity ranged from 0.34 to 0.86 with an average of 0.68. The frequency distribution of genetic distance between pairs of accessions based on marker data indicates a normal distribution. The results showed a considerable polymorphism among durum advanced lines, reflecting the efficiency of ISSRs in the assessment of the genetic diversity. ','diversity, wheat, ISSR, advance line.','The present study was conducted to evaluate the genetic diversity within a set of 16 advanced lines of durum wheat (Triticum turgidum) using 9 ISSR primers. A total of 73 polymorphic fragments were scored with average 8.1 polymorphic bands per primer. Cluster analysis using UPGMA method and Dice similarity coefficient categorized the genotypes into 4 separated groups. Estimates of genetic similarity ranged from 0.34 to 0.86 with an average of 0.68. The frequency distribution of genetic distance between pairs of accessions based on marker data indicates a normal distribution. The results showed a considerable polymorphism among durum advanced lines, reflecting the efficiency of ISSRs in the assessment of the genetic diversity. ','Durum wheat (Triticum turgidum L. var. durum) is a tetraploid (AABB, 2n = 4x = 28) wheat with high protein quality and gluten strength when compared to that of bread wheat (Quaglia et al., 1998; Von Buren, 2001). The endosperm of durum wheat has the hardest texture of all wheat types that make it suitable to produce the pasta, spaghetti and related products (Dexter et al., 1990). More than 80% of the spring durum cultivars released in the developing world, covering more than 50% of the area planted to this crop, are semi dwarf types, either from The International Maize and Wheat Improvement Center (CIMMYT) crosses or from crosses involving at least one CIMMYT parent (Abdlulaziz Al-Doss et al., 2011). The study of genetic diversity is the first step of a breeding program and genetic resources are very valuable for breeders (Etminan et al., 2010). The successfulness of a breeding program depends on many thing such as knowledge of key traits, Type of gene action, genetic systems controlli','Soheila Mehdiabadi, Reza Mohammadi, Ali Reza Etminan and Lia hooshtari (2015).Evaluation of Genetic Diversity in Durum Wheat Advanced Lines . Biological Forum â€“ An International Journal 7(1): 236-240.'),(4133,'117','Antifungal Activity of Plant Extracts of Alstonia scholaris, Argemone maxicana and Datura alba to Control Candida albicans','Vijai Malik','41 VIJAY MALIK.pdf','',1,'The present investigation was carried out to observe the antifungal activity of Alstonia scholaris, Argemone maxicana and Datura alba. For this purpose effect of different alcoholic extract concentration was observed on growth performances of Candida albicans on 5th and 7th day. Result shows that alcoholic extract concentrations inhibit radial growth of this fungus. Results also indicate that inhibition of fungal growth increase with the increase in the concentration of alcoholic extracts.','Medicinal plants extracts, antifungal activity, alcoholic extract, Candida','The present investigation was carried out to observe the antifungal activity of Alstonia scholaris, Argemone maxicana and Datura alba. For this purpose effect of different alcoholic extract concentration was observed on growth performances of Candida albicans on 5th and 7th day. Result shows that alcoholic extract concentrations inhibit radial growth of this fungus. Results also indicate that inhibition of fungal growth increase with the increase in the concentration of alcoholic extracts. ','% Growth Inhibition = Colony diameter in control â€“ Colony diameter in treated sets Ã— 100\r\n Colony diameter in control\r\n\r\n \r\nOBSERVATIONS AND RESULT\r\nThe present investigation was carried out to observe the antifungal activity of Alstonia scholaris, Argemone maxicana and Datura alba. For this purpose effect of different alcoholic extracts concentrations with (10%, 25% and 50%) were observed on the growth performances of Candida albicans causing human skin diseases are given in Table 1. \r\nA. Antifungal activity of Alstonia scholaris on Candida albicans\r\nResults in table 1 shows that the growth is inhibited by alcoholic extract concentration and this inhibition rate increases with the increase in doses of plant part extract. Thus, radial growth of these fungi in 10%, 25% and 50% root extract concentration is 83.3%, 73.3% and 53.3% of the control respectively at 7th day.\r\nResult further shows that the growth is inhibited more in 75% shoot and seed extract concentration as compared t','Vijai Malik (2015)Antifungal Activity of Plant Extracts of Alstonia scholaris, Argemone maxicana and Datura alba to Control Candida albicans. Biological Forum â€“ An International Journal 7(1): 241-243.'),(4134,'117','Studying and Assessment of Vulnerability and local changes of Quality of Karaj plain Aquifer with DRASTIC Method','Hadi Azizian and Edris Merufinia','42 EDRIS MERUFINIA.pdf','',1,'Vulnerability assessment of aquifer is very useful for development, management and land use decisions, monitoring the quality of groundwater resources and preventing pollution of this water. Aquifer system, naturally, is able to reduce the effects of pollution and wouldn\'t be easily exposed to pollution but in the event of contamination, it is very difficult to remove it from the contaminated environment. The replacement cost of a local contaminated aquifer is really high and the loss of it will also lead to contamination of other water resources in the region. Therefore in developing countries it is practically impossible to revive the aquifers. So it seems very necessary to identify the most vulnerable aquifers to damage. One of the suitable ways to prevent groundwater from contaminating is identifying the most vulnerable points of aquifer and managing the land. In this paper, according to the hydrological and hydrogeological characteristics of the area under study, aquifer vulnerabi','Vulnerability, Aquifer, Karaj Plain, DRASTIC Method','Vulnerability assessment of aquifer is very useful for development, management and land use decisions, monitoring the quality of groundwater resources and preventing pollution of this water. Aquifer system, naturally, is able to reduce the effects of pollution and wouldn\'t be easily exposed to pollution but in the event of contamination, it is very difficult to remove it from the contaminated environment. The replacement cost of a local contaminated aquifer is really high and the loss of it will also lead to contamination of other water resources in the region. Therefore in developing countries it is practically impossible to revive the aquifers. So it seems very necessary to identify the most vulnerable aquifers to damage. One of the suitable ways to prevent groundwater from contaminating is identifying the most vulnerable points of aquifer and managing the land. In this paper, according to the hydrological and hydrogeological characteristics of the area under study, aquifer vulnerabi','Groundwater pollution is diagnosed after the contamination of drinking water wells at the time that it is almost impossible to eliminate the contamination of groundwater; therefore, protecting water quality and scanning aquifer vulnerability are of significant importance. In areas where drinking water comes from underground, it is very important to evaluate the quality of these waters [1].\r\nGround water is among the most important natural resources in the world, at present, a considerable part of the water consumption of the country of Iran, especially drinking water, is provided by groundwater resources. Lack of proper recognition or non-recognition of the quick vulnerability of underground waters may cause serious pollution of these resources, and it may even happen that the polluted resource can no longer be used and lots of time and expense should be spent to eliminate the contamination and reuse it. Recent human activities have created a vulnerable environment up to the point that','Hadi Azizian and Edris Merufinia (2015). Studying and Assessment of Vulnerability and local changes of Quality of Karaj plain Aquifer with DRASTIC Method Biological Forum â€“ An International Journal 7(1): 244-252.'),(4135,'117','The Analysis of the Imports and the Exports of Food Products based on the Virtual Water Trade to Manage Iranâ€™s Water Resources','Edris Merufinia and Hadi Azizian','43 EDRIS MERUFINIA.pdf','',1,'About 74 percent of the available water resources in the world is consumed in agriculture. This value is 93% in Iran. In addition to issues such as climate and manufacturing technology, peopleâ€™s diet influences the water consumption in a country. The production of many goods requires water. The water used in the various stages of producing a product is called virtual water stored in goods. Dietary changes may increase the available water resources. The discussion of this issue and debate that will be bring forward illustrate that the concept of virtual water, highlights water as a global issue and develops its management at micro and macro levels of society and the business community. World trade of goods creates an international virtual water flow which is known as virtual water trade. With the beginning of international trade of goods virtual water flow happens from region to region.','Diet, Virtual Water, International trade, Import and Export ','Factors affecting the volume of virtual water trade can be divided into two general categories, controllable and uncontrolled factors. Uncontrolled factors include factors affecting plant water requirement (average minimum temperature, average maximum temperature, wind speed, sunshine hours, rainfall, potential crop evapotranspiration, crop coefficients and evapotranspiration). However, controlled factors include plant performance and performance of agricultural trade. This study has shown that variables such as income, population, and value added agriculture, irrigation and exports of goods and services have a significant effect on the variance of virtual water. Calculations of crop water requirements that products indicated that some plants have high water requirements, but due to high production yield, will have less special water appeal. Thus it is suggested that through increasing the performance of the products, while improving the production performance, the efficiency of water ','Over the decade the freshwater resources around the world have become scarcer due to increasing population and economic activity and increased water allocation (Postel et al.,1996). Iran with a dry and semi dry climate uses more than 94% of its water resources in agriculture. The agriculture has the greatest water consumer in the country (Alizadeh 2013). Virtual water is the water that is consumed in the production process of an agricultural crop or product to reach the final stage. The virtual water can be seen as the amount of water needed to produce a commodity. The term virtual water was introduced by JA Allan in 1993 and before that the term â€œembedded waterâ€ used to refer this concept. In fact virtual here means that the large amount of water used in the production process does not physically exist in the final product and in fact a very insignificant of water remains in the end product (Allen et al., 1998). When the products are presented to the world, virtual water trade is','Edris Merufinia and Hadi Azizian (2015). The Analysis of the Imports and the Exports of Food Products based on the Virtual Water Trade to Manage Iranâ€™s Water Resources . Biological Forum â€“ An International Journal 7(1): 253-261.'),(4136,'117','Identification of Volatile Components and Biological Properties of the extracts of aerial parts of Pterocarya fraxinifolia L.','Zahra Aghajani, Ali-Asghar Engashte-Vahed and Maryam Akhbari','44 ZAHRA AGHAJANI.pdf','',1,'The volatile components of hexane extract of the leaf and stem of the Pterocarya fraxinifolia L., a native plant of the northern Iran Caspian coastal, obtained by cold percolation method and analyzed using GC/FID and GC/MS and their antioxidant and anti-bacterial activity were assessed. Palmitic acid (53.66 %) and 9, 17-Octadecadienal (22.36%) were the main components of the stem hexane extract and Aromadendrene and 9, 17-Octadecadienal in the leaves hexane extract of the plants with 27.86 % and 18.49 % were the major components respectively. The number of identified compounds in the volatile components of hexane leaves extract was 11 while the number in hexane stem extract was 9. In this research antioxidant activity of hexane and acetone extracts of leaves and stems of the P. fraxinifolia were evaluated via DPPH radical scavenging and beta-carotene bleaching assays and also the antibacterial properties of these extracts against five strains of bacteria were assessed. ','Pterocarya fraxinifolia, volatile components, antibacterial activity, antioxidant activity','The volatile components of hexane extract of the leaf and stem of the Pterocarya fraxinifolia L., a native plant of the northern Iran Caspian coastal, obtained by cold percolation method and analyzed using GC/FID and GC/MS and their antioxidant and anti-bacterial activity were assessed. Palmitic acid (53.66 %) and 9, 17-Octadecadienal (22.36%) were the main components of the stem hexane extract and Aromadendrene and 9, 17-Octadecadienal in the leaves hexane extract of the plants with 27.86 % and 18.49 % were the major components respectively. The number of identified compounds in the volatile components of hexane leaves extract was 11 while the number in hexane stem extract was 9. In this research antioxidant activity of hexane and acetone extracts of leaves and stems of the P. fraxinifolia were evaluated via DPPH radical scavenging and beta-carotene bleaching assays and also the antibacterial properties of these extracts against five strains of bacteria were assessed. ','Natural plant products have been used throughout human history for various purposes. Having coevolved with life, these natural products are billions of years old. Tens of thousands of them are produced as secondary metabolites by the higher plants as a natural defense against disease and infection.\r\nPterocarya fraxinifolia (P. fraxinifolia) belongs to the juglandaceae family; a large tree with cloven bark, dark grey color, and as tall as 35 meters. The plant is a fast-growing tree species naturally distributed throughout Western Black Sea Region of Turkey and is native to the Caucasus from northern Iran to the southern Ukraine (Nabavi et al., 2008). It is an indigenous plant found in northern Iran. Local people use leaves of this tree as an anesthetic agent for fishing, hair dye, and treatment of tinea as well as other parasites (Nabavi et al., 2008; Hadjmohammadi and Kamel 2006).\r\nDespite being widely spread, there is limited information on the features of this plant in the literature','Zahra Aghajani, Ali-Asghar Engashte-Vahed and Maryam Akhbari (2015). Identification of Volatile Components and Biological Properties of the extracts of aerial parts of Pterocarya fraxinifolia L. Biological Forum â€“ An International Journal 7(1): 262-26'),(4137,'117','The Relationship between Organizational Structure and Organizational health (Case study of Bureau of Security and Training Affairs of Prisons in West Azerbaijan)','Yousef Karbalie and Yousef Mahmoudifar','45 EDRIS MERUFINIA.pdf','',1,'It\'s evident that in order to have a healthy society, healthy organizations must be built, also in order to establish healthy organization initially proper structure to that must be recognized. So the purpose of the current research is to study the relation between organizational structures with healthy organization. Present research is descriptive-survey research with applied purposes. Statistic population of the study were including all employees of general office of prisons and security and training affairs of West Azerbaijan. Sample size estimated to be 100 people based on Cochrane formula who have been selected through random sampling method. Data gathering tools of the study were Robins\' standard questionnaire for organizational structure and standard questionnaire Howie and Feldman for organization heath. Validity of the questionnaire being confirmed by the experts and instructors views and its reliability tested by the Cronbach\'s alpha method that was (Î±<%88). Research results','Organization health, Organization structure, Complexity, Concentration, Formality.','The research results confirmed the relation between organizational structure and organizational health with significance level of lower than (sig< 0.005). So that by increasing quality of organizational structure, organizational health dimensions will increase too and by decreasing organizational structure development, the dimensions of the organizational health will decrease. It could be cited that these results were agreed with researches of the Iraninejad et al., (2013), Barati et al., (2011) also Jamali researches (2009). On the other hand it showed that organizational structure dimensions including complexity, formality and concentration had direct and positive relation with organizational health. Meanwhile it showed that gender had no effect on organizational structural and health structure. It means that men and women had the same effect over organizational structure and organizational health on the other hand based on the range of organizational structure dimensions using Freed','Studies of social phenomenon structures have preoccupied the mind of many social scientists. One of those phenomenonâ€™s which have received lots of interests in recent century is the structure of formal organizations. Characteristics of these structures and their building factors as in a study field in organization sociology received many attentions. Power gap has been recognized as in one of the national culture dimension and means the degree of which normal individuals in a society accept that power distribution in society is unequal, by increasing power gap in the society making dictatorship decisions will increased (Hofstede, 1997).\r\nOn the other hand power gap is the effective factor in keeping the organization health. In order to have healthy society we should build healthy organizations and to do this proper structure related to organization structure must be recognized. In recent decades tangible scientific efforts has been made in order define, explain and assess organizatio','Yousef Karbalie and Yousef Mahmoudifar (2015).The Relationship between Organizational Structure and Organizational health (Case study of Bureau of Security and Training Affairs of Prisons in West Azerbaijan) . Biological Forum â€“ An International Journ'),(4138,'117','Distribution of a lesser known, an Endemic, edible plant\r\n (Flemingia tuberosa Dalzell.) in Gujarat\r\n','Dharmesh C. Patel and Sandipkumar L. Patel','46 SANDIP PATEL GJ.pdf','',1,'Flemingia tuberosa Dalzell. is an endemic species of Western Ghats of India. Its occurrence is known from Gujarat, Maharshtra, Goa, Karnataka and Kerala. We have collected this endemic species from various localities in southern part of Gujarat. A few specimens of this species have been collected during this study from different localities and their precise localities are recorded. ','Flemingia tuberosa, Endemic, Western Ghats, Distribution, Gujarat','Flemingia tuberosa Dalzell. is an endemic species of Western Ghats of India. Its occurrence is known from Gujarat, Maharshtra, Goa, Karnataka and Kerala. We have collected this endemic species from various localities in southern part of Gujarat. A few specimens of this species have been collected during this study from different localities and their precise localities are recorded. ','Flemingia tuberosa Dalzell. (Fabaceae) is an endemic species of Western Ghats of India (Singh et al., 2013). Its occurrence is known from Gujarat, Maharshtra, Goa, Karnataka and Kerala (Raghvan et al., 1981; Prasad et al., 2011). The root tubers of the plant are sweet, astringent, and useful in dysentery and leucorrhoea (Kirtikar and Basu, 1993). People consume them either raw or roasted which removes astringency. There is a huge demand for root tubers of F. tuberosa particularly in local markets for its edible purpose. This species have been reported for Gujarat flora but authentic locality of its occurrence in Gujarat was not referred in any of the past floristic works. It was listed by Raghvan et al. (1981) without any precise locality. Recently Patel (2013) reported it from a single locality in Valsad district. The present collections are from various villages in Valsad district (Gujarat). Brief description, edible and medicinal uses and photographs of this species are given for fu','Dharmesh C. Patel and Sandipkumar L. Patel (2015). Distribution of a lesser known, an Endemic, edible plant (Flemingia tuberosa Dalzell.) in Gujarat . Biological Forum â€“ An International Journal 7(1): 271-272.\r\n'),(4139,'117','Check the Status of Telemedicine in Iran','Shahnaz Ismail Zadeh and Kamran Zargah','47 SHAHNAZ ISMAIL ZADEH.pdf','',1,'Telemedicine (Tele Medicine) or telemedicine means using electronic signals for transmission of medical information via video, email, telephone and satellite. These services such as other medical services had good accuracy and confidentiality of patient information is included. Generally, the use of telemedicine in medical technology, communication, to exchange any information, including data, voice, video communication between doctor and patient or physician and health care professionals in geographically separate locations to allow for exchange purposes. Medical, health care, education and applied research. The benefits of telemedicine to increase access to health services, increasing the continuity of care, Patient education and treatment and increased access to medical records and information and the development of continuing education in medicine. Given the myriad benefits, telemedicine applications are becoming increasingly developed.','Telemedicine, Information Sharing, Remote Surveillance','Due to the numerous applications of telemedicine and remote medical record documentation and the need to create a platform for the provision of health care organization are using technologies to speed, accuracy and quality of care provided to patients and ensure patients.\r\nIn recent decades, much progress in the development of telemedicine technology is backed by modern digital communications media, has been done. In many countries health care system is more close to the patient. Telemedicine, especially in countries like Iran, where the transport network is underdeveloped.\r\n','Telemedicine medical dictionary was first compiled in 1920. NASA was the first to provide medical advice to Astronauts and treat them remotely using satellites to establish. The relationship between doctors, astronauts on the Earth\'s surface and in this way the technology into the medical field were. Generally, the uses of remote communication technology to create, enhance or accelerate health care telemedicine say. The general sense of the term, the use of information and communication technology in medicine, with the aim to telemedicine services without the need for a common connection (Clashes doctors and patients) presented.\r\nA. General applications of telemedicine\r\nThe patient via the internet and communicate with accompany offering this service all the way to carry your medical services. Telemedicine is the use of multimedia tools and using a large number of modern technologies (such as live video, live audio, data and medical images, communications systems, text, photos and vita','Shahnaz Ismail Zadeh and Kamran Zargah (2015). Check the Status of Telemedicine in Iran . Biological Forum â€“ An International Journal 7(1): 273-275. '),(4140,'117','Estimating Flood Hydrograph with Different Return Periods (Case Study: Urmia Shahar Chay Basin)','Saeed Judi Sani and Edris Merufinia','48 EDRIS MERUFINIA.pdf','',1,'The frequency of floods during the last few decades has caused the majority of the country to be vulnerable to devastating flood and the loss of life and property is significantly increased. The increased population associated with poor land use planning, deforestation and the development of impervious surfaces has led less water penetrate the earth in the drainage basins and flow to the downstream. As a result the floods have become frequent, severe and sudden which causes more damage. In this study a part of ShaharChay River-Urmia was chosen and based on the importance of the basin and flood mapping in this area, it is chosen as the main objective of this study. In this research using GIS techniques and existing HEC-HMS hydrologic model the flooding of the ShaharChay River-Urmia was studied and the hydrographic maps were obtained for 2, 5,10,25,50,100 return periods. ','Environmental crises, Flood zoning, ShaharChay River, HECâ€“HMS','The frequency of floods during the last few decades has caused the majority of the country to be vulnerable to devastating flood and the loss of life and property is significantly increased. The increased population associated with poor land use planning, deforestation and the development of impervious surfaces has led less water penetrate the earth in the drainage basins and flow to the downstream. As a result the floods have become frequent, severe and sudden which causes more damage. In this study a part of ShaharChay River-Urmia was chosen and based on the importance of the basin and flood mapping in this area, it is chosen as the main objective of this study. In this research using GIS techniques and existing HEC-HMS hydrologic model the flooding of the ShaharChay River-Urmia was studied and the hydrographic maps were obtained for 2, 5,10,25,50,100 return periods. ','Although the human being is not capable of living without water but water can be the threatening factor of health and welfare of humans and even geographical areas as well. Near the great rivers there is always enough water for municipal, industrial and irrigation. Hence, a high proportion of advances in the developed urban centers, agriculture and industry are located along the rivers. Against the aforementioned benefits, massive flooding in the river is considered a threat to the facility located in its neighborhood (Hassanpour and Kashani, 2006). One of the main issues raised during the watershed operation is to prioritize erosion control and reduce flooding measures in the sub-basins of a basin (Alizadeh, 2010).\r\nShushtari et al., (2002) simulated the flow in Kor and the Seyvan Rivers in using HEC - HMS the model. In this model methods were predicted to calculate the precipitation losses, runoff and basic discharge and flood routing. Jalalirad et al., (2003), flood mapping using HE','Saeed Judi Sani and Edris Merufinia (2015). Estimating Flood Hydrograph with Different Return Periods (Case Study: Urmia Shahar Chay Basin). Biological Forum â€“ An International Journal 7(1): 276-281.'),(4141,'117','Yield and Morphological Traits of Safflower as affected by Weeds Interference and Variety','Reza Mohmadali-Nejad and Seyyed Gholamreza Moosavi','49 SEYYED GHOLAMREZA MOOSAVI.pdf','',1,'To evaluate the effect of weed interference and variety on seed yield and morphological traits of safflower, an experiment was conducted in Agriculture and Natural Resources Research Center of Southern Khorasan, Iran in 2013-2014 as a factorial experiment based on a Randomized Complete Block Design with three replications. The experimental treatments included a combination of weeds interference period at six levels (control or complete management of weeds until the end of growing season, weeds interference until: stem elongation initiation, auxiliary branch initiation, flower initiation, seeds filling termination, and no weeds management) and safflower cultivars at three levels (Padideh, Goldasht and Golsefid). Means comparison revealed that Padideh variety had the highest seed yield (274.1 g m-2) among the varieties. Also, results showed that plant height, height of the first auxiliary branch to the ground, head number per auxiliary branch and seed yield reduced 10.36, 22.28, 25.21 an','Safflower, weed interference, variety, yield, morphological traits','It was found that the presence of weeds until the end of growing season decreased the yield of safflower cultivars by 33.9% as compared to control. Therefore, as the results showed, the highest seed yield of safflower in the studied region can be produced by variety Padideh under full control of weeds or their control at most until the initiation of stem elongation.','As one of the main foods in human diet, oilseeds roughly supply 20% of daily calorie requirement of people through consuming oils (Seyed Sharifi, 2009). Therefore, given the growing population and daily consumption of oils the cultivation area of oilseeds and their yields need to be increased in order to reduce the dependency over other countries (Forouzan, 2008; Kafi & Rostami, 2007). Among oilseeds that are adapted to the conditions in Iran, safflower (Carthamus tinctorius L.) has a promising future as a salinity and drought resistant crop (Bassil & Kaffka, 2002) that has both spring and autumn types (Paseba, 2001).\r\nProtecting the crops against weeds is regarded as a strategy to increase their production. The interference of weeds can reduce the availability of common resources to crops through which it affects their growth and yield (Lindquist et al., 2007). In this sense, they are known as a limiting factor of crop production (Karimmojeni et al., 2010).\r\nCrop cultivar and the dura','Reza Mohmadali-Nejad and Seyyed Gholamreza Moosavi (2015). Yield and Morphological Traits of Safflower as affected by Weeds Interference and Variety . Biological Forum â€“ An International Journal 7(1): 282-286.'),(4142,'117','Influence of Salicylic and Jasmonic acid on Chlorophylls, Carotenes and Xanthophylls contents of Lemon balm (Melissa officinalis L.) under Salt stress conditions','Alireza Pazoki','50 ALIREZA PAZOKI.pdf','',1,'Soil salinity is one of the most important limitations that reduce crop yield in arid and saline irrigation. Water resource solution substances known as salts. Most of the salts exist in water resources are chlorides and sodium. While salinity can improve soil structure, it can also create negatively affects on photosyntetically pigment formation and their survival. This research was carried out in order to investigate the effects of different salinity levels (0, 25, 50 and 75 mM NaCl), salicylic acid (0 and 0.7 mM) and Jasmonic acid (0 and 100 ÂµM) on some pigment contents in Lemon balm (Melissa officinalis L.). The results indicated that pigment contents such as chl a, chl b and chl a+b significantly decreased and carotenes and xanthophylls increased against salinity stress. Also application of salicylic acid and Jasmonic acid significantly increased all pigment contents. Under all salinity stress conditions, 0.7 mM salicylic acid and 100 ÂµM Jasmonic acid foliar applications could s','Salinity, Salicylic acid (SA), Jasmonic acid (JA), Lemon balm (Melissa officinalis L.), Pigment contents','Salinity affects differently early growth stages of plants. This abiotic stress has both osmotic and specific ion effects on plant growth (Dionisio-Sese & Tobita 2000). Application of SA and JA against salt-stressed plant showed significantly improved chlorophyll concentrations; however, their combined application (SA + JA) was clearly more efficient in mitigating the adverse effects of salinity on total chlorophylls and carotenoids in lemon balm. This effect of SA application on photosynthetic pigments was already demonstrated (Arfan et al., 2007; Wasti et al., 2012) but the present study indicates that such an effect be increased indirectly via SA and JA. Photosynthetic pigments and Na demonstrated an opposite trend. It may be concluded that SA and JA reduces the harmful effect of salt stress in lemon balm plants. ','Lemon balm (Melissa officinalis L.) belongs to the family Lamiaceae, is among the most often used medicinal plants due to their beneficial health effects. This plant used to give essential oil and extract to different food and beverage products. It has also been applied as a medicinal plant for making different medication of headaches, gastrointestinal disorders, nervousness, rheumatism, skin complaints, wounds and burns, conjunctivitis and poor eyesight, menstrual irregularities, varicose veins, hemorrhoids, duodenal ulcers and etc (Bisset, 2001; Neda et al., 2004; Van Wyk & Wink, 2004).\r\nJasmonic acid and methyl jasmonate (MeJA), totally called jasmonates, are considered as endogenous regulators that play important duties in regulating stress responses, plant growth and development (Creelman & Mullet, 1997). Concentration of endogenous jasmonates increase during stress conditions such as treatment with elicitors, wound damagings, ozone, deficit and salinity stresses (Kanna et al., 2','Alireza Pazoki (2015). Influence of Salicylic and Jasmonic acid on Chlorophylls, Carotenes and Xanthophylls contents of Lemon balm (Melissa officinalis L.) under Salt stress conditions . Biological Forum â€“ An International Journal 7(1): 287-292.'),(4143,'117','Response Morphological Traits and yield of Ajowan (Carum copticum) to Water deficit stress and Nitrogen Fertilizer','Seyyed Gholamreza Moosavi, Mohamad Javad Seghatoleslami, Zeinolabedin Jouyban, Elham Ansarinia and Seyyed Ahmad Moosavi\r\n','51 SEYYED GHOLAMREZA MOOSAVI.pdf','',1,'In order to study the effect of water deficit stress and nitrogen levels on morphological traits and yield of Ajowan, an experiment was conducted as split plot design based on randomized complete blocks with three replications, at research field of Islamic Azad University of Birjand branch in 2012. In this research water deficit stress set as main factor (irrigation after 70, 140 and 210 mm cumulative evaporation from pan class A) and nitrogen set as sub factor (0, 75,150 and 225 kg N.ha-1). The results showed that irrigation interval had significant effect on plant height, branch number of main stem, stem diameter, straw yield, seed yield and harvest index. With increasing of irrigation interval from 70 to 210 mm cumulative evaporation, these traits reduced 36.6, 41.4, 33.2, 48.3, 65.1.5 and 23.2%, respectively. Also results showed that as N fertilizer rate was increased from 0 to 75 kg N.ha-1, plant height and seed yield were increased by 12.6 and 17.9%, respectively. Moreover, as N ','Carum copticum, irrigation, nitrogen, yield, morphological traits','In total, the results of this study showed that water deficit stress can considerably decrease seed yield of ajowan, but yield loss was greater when irrigation interval increased from 70 to 210 mm cumulative evaporation. Also, it can be recommended to apply only 75 kg N. ha-1 because it stimulates vegetative growth and increases leaf area index and duration, photosynthetic potential and finally, economical yield. Finally according to the results, the treatment of irrigation after 70 mm evaporation with 75 kg N ha-1 is recommended for realizing high ajowan yield in Birjand, Iran.','Water is an important environmental factor affecting the growth of the crops particularly in arid and semi-arid regions like Iran; so, its optimum use for the production of the crops is vital (Mirzaei et al., 2005). In addition to available water, N is a key element in the structure of many compounds of cells and plays a crucial role in the growth and yield of plants. Iran is considered as an arid and semi-arid region in the world. Therefore, efficient water management and understanding the influential factors such as N fertilization, and identifying drought-tolerant plants are crucially important. The diverse climate with a great temperature difference (over 50Â°C) of Iran and coastal, mountainous and desert lands (Javadzadeh, 1997) provides favorable conditions for the cultivation of most drought-tolerant medicinal herbs.\r\nNowadays, given the side effects of chemical medications and growing tendency to herbal medicine, mass cultivation of various medicinal herbs has been interested. ','Seyyed Gholamreza Moosavi, Mohamad Javad Seghatoleslami, Zeinolabedin Jouyban, Elham Ansarinia and Seyyed Ahmad Moosavi (2015). Response Morphological Traits and yield of Ajowan (Carum copticum) to Water deficit stress and Nitrogen Fertilizer . Biological'),(4144,'117','Autecology of Endemic Plant â€œPrangos haussknechtii Boissâ€ in Kohgilouyeh-va-Boyerahmad Province, Iran','Shahab Mirinejad ','52 SHAHAB MIRINEJAD.pdf','',1,'In order to investigate the Autecology of Prangoshaussknechtii Boiss this project has been conducted within 2008 to 2011. P. haussknechtii is an endemic plant in Kohgilouyeh-va-Boyerahmad Province has which is extensively used for grazing of domesticated animals. P.haussknechtii with deep root can use for prevention of soil erosion. This research, using scientific resources and GPS device obtained the geographic characteristics of the region such as latitude, longitude, height, direction and slope and the plant distribution map. Seeds of the plant were collected from growth place in the summer 2008 and then cultivated and established in autumn 2008 using decayed animal manure. The Results indicated P. haussknechtii germinates in the second week of April, begins its palmate state and gets a few leaves in the first week of July and continues to grow until the second week of June. At this time, the plant growth is completed in the first year and is withered at that year. In respect to ph','Autecology, endangered plant, kohgilooye-va-Booyerahmad, prangos','This research has been performed to investigate the phenology and cultivation of Prangos haussknechtii Boiss in Kohgilouyeh-va-Boyerahmad Province and also to study the main reasons of the plant extinction. According to the results, Prangos haussknechtii Boiss is extensively used for grazing of domesticated animals endangered due to overgrazing. The plant has also shown the ability to be cultivated in cold areas of the Province where the precipitation is mostly snow. According to this study, the best planting season is late November when the plant biological activities are minimal. Because of the importance of medicinal \r\n\r\ncultivation and domestication, it is recommended to do ecological research on other pastural plants. In other hand Prangos haussknechtii seeds can be used for regeneration and reproduction in areas where good potential for growing. Due to the deep roots and wide canopy, this plant can be used to prevent of soil erosion.\r\n','Kohgiluyeh-va-Boyerahmad is a province located in the southwest of Iran (Fig.1). Primarily, it is a mountainous province and Zagross Mountain Ranges stretch from the northeast to the southwest of Kohgilouyeh-va-Boyerahmad. There is more than 4000 meters difference of elevation between the highest point of the province in Mount Dena (4,409 meters) and the lowest point in HaiderKarrar area in Gachsaran (180 meters). \r\nThe province is in Neighborhood with a variety of climates such as cold-and-dry and hot-and-humid climates has generated a dual climatic characteristic that is cause of plant and animal biodiversity in the province (Mirinejad et al., 2008). Degradation and risk exposure such as overgrazing, plowing and land use changes, drought and low rainfall, debit human nature and change of use of land, pasture, such as plant construction are important factors that most species of medicinal plants, and Pasture are at risk (Mirinejad, 2013). The genus Prangos (Jashir in Persian) belongs ','Shahab Mirinejad (2015). Autecology of Endemic Plant â€œPrangos haussknechtii Boissâ€ in Kohgilouyeh-va-Boyerahmad Province, Iran . Biological Forum â€“ An International Journal 7(1): 300-303.'),(4145,'117','Comparison between Acrylic Acid and Methacrylamide on Release and Swelling Properties for Hydrogels based on PVP','Mokhtar Heidari Naghdeali and Maryam Adimi','53 MOKHTAR HEIDARI AND MARYAM ADIMI.pdf','',1,'In this experimental study, eight hydrogels based on Polyvinyl pyrrolidone were prepared. The four hydrogels based Polyvinylpyrrolidone/acrylic acid by changing the concentration of acrylic acidemonomer was prepared. The swelling and release test of these hydrogels were examined. And other hydrogels based Polyvinyl pyrrolidone/Methacrylamide by changing the concentration of Methacrylamidemonomer was prepared. The swelling and release test for all of samples were done. Anti-asthma drug aminophylline was used to test for drug delivery in the phosphate buffer solution as the same body pH. The results showed that the acrylic acid e monomer had higher swelling and controlled released.','Hydrogels, PVP, Controlled Release, Swelling Rate, Acrylic Acid, Methacrylamide.','The results showed acrylic acid monomer have higher swelling and more controlled released from Methacrylamide this is because the acrylic acid monomer is more hydrophilic than Methacrylamidemonomer and acrylic acid water absorption is equal to 2100. On the other hand, Aminophylline is a anti-asthmatic drug,whichhas a short half-life, rapid onset and its peak effect is so fast and optimum percent of acrylic acid is (AA(4) =6.398 wt%) that this sample had the most of controlled released. ','Hydrogels are polymer networks extensively swollen with water. Researchers, over the years, have defined hydrogels in many different ways. The most common of these is that hydrogel is a water-swollen, and cross-linked polymeric network produced by the simple reaction of one or more monomers (Buchholz and Graham, 1998, Brannon and Harland, 1991, Li et al., 2013). The ability to swell depends on pH, temperature and ionic strength environment, type of solvent and the polymer structure (Gaharwar et al., 2011). Hydrogels have numerous applications, including cosmetic products, preservatives, water, moisture retention, coagulant, sludge thickener, drug delivery systems and lenses in ophthalmology. This polymer gets big part of the global markets due to the economic value and technical interest of it (Ganji and Farahani, 2009). So if we can obtain useful information about the synthetic hydrogel dehydration, that information can be used in making a controlled drug delivery system (Sirousazar e','Mokhtar Heidari Naghdeali and Maryam Adimi (2015). Comparison between Acrylic Acid and Methacrylamide on Release and Swelling Properties for Hydrogels based on PVP. Biological Forum â€“ An International Journal 7(1): 304-308.'),(4146,'117','Evaluation of Flavonoids and Phenols content of Wheat under different Lead, PGPR and Mycorrhiza levels','Alireza Pazoki','54 ALIREZA PAZOKI @ EVALUATION OF FLAVONOIDS.pdf','',1,'Among heavy metals Lead (Pb) exists in many forms in natural sources throughout the world. Although pb is not an necessary element for plants, it gets easily uptake, accumulated in different plants sections and has effects on leaf flavonoids and phenols formation. Due to evaluating flavonoids and phenols contents under different lead, PGPR and mycorrhiza levels in wheat, a pot culture experiments was done during 2012-2013 in Islamic Azad University, Karaj and Yadegar-e-Imam Khomeini (RAH) Branches, as factorial based on completely randomized design with 4 replications. The lead amounts in 4 levels (0, 300, 600 and 900 mg/kg of soil), PGPR (Azosperillium, Azotobacter and Pseudomonas) in 2 levels (Application and non application) and mycorrhiza in 2 levels (Application and non application) were considered. The lead concentration increase was noticed on evaluated characters. The PGPR application diminished flavonoids (22%) and increased phenols (17.9%) significantly. Mycorrhiza consumptio','Flavonoids, Lead, Mycorrhiza, Phenols, PGPR, Wheat ','There is some record for induction of phenolic metabolism in plants as a response to multiple stresses (Michalak, 2006). Nevertheless the flavonoids biosynthetic pathway and its regulation mechanisms are well specified, many aspects associated to flavonoids movment and their final accumulation are still ambiguity. This is a difficult aspect, particularly for grapevine, where large amounts of polyphenols are accumulated. This knowledge is also beneficial for figuring out the allocation processes of other secondary metabolites (e.g., terpenoids and alkaloids). An increase of phenolics associated with the increase in activity of enzymes involved in phenolic compounds metabolism was presented, suggesting de novo making of phenolics under heavy metal stress. In contrast, some documents demonstrated that the enhance in flavonoids amount is mainly the result of conjugate hydrolysis and not due to de novo biosynthesis (Parry et al., 1994).\r\nOur finding showed that PGPR and mycorrhiza applicati','Heavy metal contamination results mainly from anthropogenic activities such as mining and metal smelting. This Pollution is a nearest environmental difficulty that may menace whole ecosystems and humans. Humans and wildlife are exposed to heavy metals through several pathways that may embed contaminated drinking water and food, inhaling particulates and polluted soil health (Qu et al., 2012; Ikenaka et al., 2010).\r\nHeavy metals toxicity and the risk of their outstanding in the soil and as a result in food chain is one of the primary environmental and health problems nowadays. Introductory sources of contamination is from the burning of fossil fuels, mining and melting of metallic ferrous ores, urban wastes, fertilizers, herbicides, and wastewater (Peng et al., 2006; Xiong, 1998). Many evaluations indicate that the toxicity depends on chemical structure, the rout of its administration, and concentration, time and intensity of exposure. (Kulikowska et al., 1994).\r\nGruca-KrÃ³likowska & Wa','Alireza Pazoki (2015). Evaluation of Flavonoids and Phenols content of Wheat under different Lead, PGPR and Mycorrhiza levels . Biological Forum â€“ An International Journal 7(1): 309-315.'),(4147,'117','Yield, Morphological traits and Nitrogen use Efficiency of Eruca sativa as affected by Irrigation, Plant density and Nitrogen Fertilization','Meysam Ghavampoor, Seyyed Gholamreza Moosavi and Mohamad Javad Seghatoleslami','55 SEYYED GHOLAMREZA MOOSAVI-3.pdf','',1,'The effect of different levels of irrigation, plant density and N fertilization was studied on the yield, morphological traits and N use efficiency (NUE) of Eruca sativa in the research farm of Islamic Azad University of Birjand, Iran in 2013-2014 in a factorial split-plot experiment. The main plot was devoted to water deficit stress at two levels of no stress (optimum irrigation) and stress at reproductive stage, the sub-plot was devoted to plant density at two levels of 60 and 160 plants m-2, and thesub-sub-plot was devoted to N fertilization at three rates of 0, 100 and 200 kg ha-1. It was found that drought stress at reproductive stage resulted in 68.5% loss of seed yield, 66.7 and 73.1% loss of N use efficiency for biomass and seed production as compared to optimum irrigation. In addition, the increase in density from 60 to 160 plants m-2 resulted in 29.5% higher seed yield, 11.5% higher plant height, 30.3 and 21.1% higher NUE for biomass and seed production, 20.3% higher number o','Low irrigation, plant density, N, morphological traits, NUE','According to the results it can be concluded that water deficit at reproductive stage severely reduced NUE for biomass and seed production of E. sative due to the severe loss of vegetative and reproductive growth and seed yield on the one hand and the loss of the condition required for the appropriate performance of N fertilizing and its use efficiency, i.e. the presence of adequate moisture is soil, on the other hand. In total, it can be said that the best yieldand NUE was obtained from the treatment of optimum irrigation at the density of 150 plantsm-2 fertilized with 100 kg N ha-1 if the environmental issues are paid attention.','Optimum water application in crop production as an important environmental factor affecting the growth and development of the plants is of crucial importance, particularly in arid and semi-arid regions like Iran (Mirzaei et al., 2005). On the other hand, a growing focus is given to water deficit stress and its influences on crops owing to the increase in applied water costs and the decrease in its availability in these regions (Winter, 1990). Severe water stress reduces the growth and photosynthesis, disrupts physiological processes and finally, results in the death of the plants (Kafi and Damghani, 2002).\r\nIn a study on the effect of optimum and limited irrigation on the yield of rapeseed, Qushchi et al. (2010) reported that water deficit stress reduced plant height, auxiliary branches, seed yield and biological yield per ha. In another study on rapeseed cultivars, limited irrigation resulted in the greatest loss of plant height, auxiliary branch number and biological yield (Rezadost ','Meysam Ghavampoor, Seyyed Gholamreza Moosavi and Mohamad Javad Seghatoleslami (2015).Yield, Morphological traits and Nitrogen use Efficiency of Eruca sativa as affected by Irrigation, Plant density and Nitrogen Fertilization. Biological Forum â€“ An Int'),(4148,'117','Comparison of the Activity of some Soil Enzyme in soil mass of areas covered with spruce and areas with mixed alder-spruce coverage of Orchards of Siyahkal Township ','Farhad Akesteh and Seyed Uosef Torbian','56 FARHAD AKESTEH @ HASHEMI.pdf','',1,'Due to the redaction of forest biomass in different areas due to indiscriminate harvesting, recent years approach on forests was artificial while planting of spruce tree is considered one of the main preferences in line with this purpose. Soil biomasses of panting of vegetation types can be directly affected on fertility process of soil. In this research we try to study and analyze effects of spruce planting and total of mixed alder-spruce vegetation on enzyme activity rate, different enzymes in soil of siyahkal townâ€™s areas. For this purpose it was sampled from 0-20 cm deep soil under spruce trees and soil under mixed visitation of spruce-older. Activity of Alkaline phosphates and phosphates acid and microbial are measured by using of reaction with substrate by spectrophotometer. Resulted conclusions demonstrated that enzyme activity in soil biomass under trees in 10-20 cm deep in mixed vegetation areas compared with areas covered spruce trees significantly faced with increase that ','spruce, older, Alkaline phosphates, phosphates Acid and microorganisms .','Phosphates acid activity in two soil biomasses of mixed spruce- alder vegetation and spruce:\r\nThere were 0/05 significant difference (p<0.01) in phosphates enzyme activity in soil biomass of spruce covered areas and mixed spruce and alder covered areas (Table 1). This activity in ingle planting group of spruce was 5.488 g-1h-1 pnpÎ¼g and in mixed planting of spruce-alder 4.349 pnpÎ¼g (Fig. 1).\r\nResults of T-test show that there is significant differences (p < 0.05) in Alkaline phosphates enzyme activity of two mixed and single group. Table 2: soil with mixed vegetation has more activity than soil with \r\n','Generally soil quality can be found as consequent of total effects of biotic, chemistry-physical factors of soil (Khoramali & Shamsi, 2009) soil characteristics can be considered land management and climate (Onwerwmadu 2010). Method of productivity of soil affects on chemistries and physical characteristics of soil while measurement rate of these effects is possible on quality of soil action in ecosystem via quality ciboria review of soil (Lal, 2004). Mention of this notice is necessary that present and cross effects between present microorganisms and plants in soil are caused to product organic materials cycle. In recent years soil enzymes measurement is accurate method for evaluation of different biochemist rice process that occur n soil (Tabatabai & Dick NAnipierieth, 2002).\r\nOrganic phosphorus converts as it mineral form by phosphates (spear & Rooss,1973). Phosphates are necessary enzymes that product under condition of phosphorus loss. This enzyme can be known as proper indicator ','Farhad Akesteh and Seyed Uosef Torbian (2015). Comparison of the Activity of some Soil Enzyme in soil mass of areas covered with spruce and areas with mixed alder-spruce coverage of Orchards of Siyahkal Township . Biological Forum â€“ An International J'),(4149,'117','Evaluation and Selection of Optimal Pipes for Urban Drinking Water Distribution Networks Using Hierarchical AHP (Case Study: Water Distribution Network in the City of Mahabad)','Mahmoud Sobhani and Solayman Iranzade','57 SOLAYMAN IRANZADE.pdf','',1,'Optimal selection of pipes in urban water distribution network is very important due to the importance of supplying drinking water and lack of resources. According to the urban water and wastewater experts and advisors the optimal pipes should have high Resistance, accommodation, long life and the lowest leakage in the water distribution network. In order to determine the coefficients of importance in this study, using 12 criteria influencing the optimal selection of pipe type the research questionnaire was developed and its validity and reliability were analyzed. The Cronbach\'s alpha was used to evaluate the reliability, the value of which was 0.87 which indicated the high consistency and reliability of the questionnaire. In this study paired comparison questionnaire forms were distributed among 47 urban water and wastewater experts, consultants, workers and the contractors of Mahabad City and various criteria were decided by them. After weighting and comparison of different pipes bas','Optimal election of pipes, Ductile iron pipes, Asbestos cement pipe, PE pipes, AHP ','Optimal selection of pipes in urban water distribution network is very important due to the importance of supplying drinking water and lack of resources. According to the urban water and wastewater experts and advisors the optimal pipes should have high Resistance, accommodation, long life and the lowest leakage in the water distribution network. In order to determine the coefficients of importance in this study, using 12 criteria influencing the optimal selection of pipe type the research questionnaire was developed and its validity and reliability were analyzed. The Cronbach\'s alpha was used to evaluate the reliability, the value of which was 0.87 which indicated the high consistency and reliability of the questionnaire. In this study paired comparison questionnaire forms were distributed among 47 urban water and wastewater experts, consultants, workers and the contractors of Mahabad City and various criteria were decided by them. After weighting and comparison of different pipes bas','The development of the cities have resulted increased problems in providing social services and economic and social consequences and they have become the main concern gradually. Due to the complexity and extensiveness of decision making scope of the problems related to water distribution networks, the inadequacy of these designs is quite predictable. Hence, the improved design methods and the use of optimization techniques to reduce costs and satisfy the requirements of the hydraulic Conditions of the distribution network are inevitable. The use of new and improved methods of refining groundwater or wastewater (sewage) reuse, modification of traditional irrigation methods, correct planning at provincial and national culture, dam construction in appropriate places, education of correct consumption to the consumers and the utilization of two types of water distribution systems (potable and non-potable) in residential areas, are among scientific and proven methods consistent with our coun','Mahmoud Sobhani and Solayman Iranzade (2015). Evaluation and Selection of Optimal Pipes for Urban Drinking Water Distribution Networks Using Hierarchical AHP (Case Study: Water Distribution Network in the City of Mahabad). Biological Forum â€“ An Internat'),(4150,'117','Autecology of Endemic plant Eremostachys adenantha Juab. & Spach in South-west of Zagros Mountains, Iran','Shahab Mirinejad and Mehrdokht Najafpour Navaei','58 SHAHAB MIRINEJAD -2.pdf','',1,'The research has been performed to investigate the ecological conditions, habitat, and phenology of endemic and endangered medicinal plant, Eremostachys adenantha during 2008-2010. Eremostachys adenantha is endemic plant in Iran and is growing only on Zagros Mountains in Iranian southern and west southern provinces. This research, using scientific resources and GPS device obtained the geographic characteristics of the region such as latitude, longitude, height, direction and slope and the plant distribution map. The results showed that Eremostachys adenantha plant in the mountainous and hilly areas grows from the altitude of 1800 meters to 2500 meters without geographic limitation with the slope of 35-10 percent. Our studies have shown that Eremostachys adenantha from late March starts the germination and continues its vegetative growth up to the late May. Reproductive phase of the plant starts in May and its flowers are formed, then in late June the seeds of plant become salient. ','Autecology, Eremostachys adenantha, Iran, Kohgiluyeh-va-Boyer Ahmad Province','The research has been performed to investigate the ecological conditions, habitat, and phenology of endemic and endangered medicinal plant, Eremostachys adenantha during 2008-2010. Eremostachys adenantha is endemic plant in Iran and is growing only on Zagros Mountains in Iranian southern and west southern provinces. This research, using scientific resources and GPS device obtained the geographic characteristics of the region such as latitude, longitude, height, direction and slope and the plant distribution map. The results showed that Eremostachys adenantha plant in the mountainous and hilly areas grows from the altitude of 1800 meters to 2500 meters without geographic limitation with the slope of 35-10 percent. Our studies have shown that Eremostachys adenantha from late March starts the germination and continues its vegetative growth up to the late May. Reproductive phase of the plant starts in May and its flowers are formed, then in late June the seeds of plant become salient. ','Iran is one of the major centers of endemic plant and animal species in the world. Topographic factors conditions in Iran are responsible for the diversity of microclimate that favors more than 8000 plant species (Haghighi and Mozafarian, 2011). Increasing anthropogenic pressures, including deforestation, re-forestation, intensification of agriculture already had a great impact on the growth, survival and distribution of native species in Iran, especially the rare and endemic species (Jafari and Akhani, 2008). Kohgiluyeh-va-Boyerahmad (KB) is a mountainous province situated (29â—¦ 56\' - 31â—¦ 29\' N, 49â—¦ 53\' - 51â—¦ 53\' E) in South West of Iran. About 3.4 of the area are rugged and plains comprise only 1.4 of the province area (Mirinejad et al, 2011) (Mosaddegh et al, 2012). This varying topography resulted in varying climates that include cold-and-dry as well as hot-and-humid conditions. These factors favor the plant and animal biodiversity in KB province (Mirinejad et al, 2009; Miri','Shahab Mirinejad and Mehrdokht Najafpour Navaei (2015). Autecology of Endemic plant Eremostachys adenantha Juab. & Spach in South-west of Zagros Mountains, Iran. Biological Forum â€“ An International Journal 7(1): 337-341. '),(4151,'117','Soil type of Oriental Beech Stands in Elevation Levels of Hyrcanian Forests','Khalil Mohammadi, Vahid Hemmati and Alireza Eslami','59 HASHEMI.pdf','',1,'The study of soil type in forest stands is important factor for future natural stands planning. The present study examine soil type in Hyrcanian beech stands at different levels of height above sea level by using American Classifieds, in the Seyahkal forests, Guilan province and the north of Iran. For this purpose, 15 soil profiles, ranging from the slope below 30%, and to the north, was drilled, to measure some soil physico-chemical parameters, of the profiles, one kg of soil was sampled, and were transported to the soil analysis laboratory. The results of the classification of Soils in these Fagus orientalis Lipsky Communities showed that from 600 to 1800 meter above sea level (m.a.s.l.), the soil type is acidic brown and forest brown (Inceptisols category, Ochrepts Subcategory), and from 1800 to 2100 (m.a.s.l.), soil type is Rendzine with brown calcareous soil (Mollisols category, Rendolls subcategory).','Soil type, Caspian Beech, American Classifieds','Forest Brown soils (ABC), usually are specifying the mixed hardwood forests. In these soils is difficult to detect the B horizon with normal eyes. these soils despite placement on the limestone have been washed completely from carbonates, and Due to mull humus, strong biological activity and very fast feeding cycle, \r\n\r\nvery good for the trees, And supply the nitrogen needs of trees well (Guia et al., 2002). These soils have a depth of 90 cm are good to excellent evolution, and appear in the climax forest conditions. In this study, this soil type was observed in elevation classes 800, 1500 and 1850 (m.a.s.l.), and in the pure beech with the climax conditions. \r\n \r\n\r\nLimestone with ABC horizon, porosity more than 35%, and carbon to nitrogen ratio of 11% in these soils in the study area, shows the fertility of the soil, and soils with Pedoclimax conditions (Abrari and Azizi, 2003). When reduced alkaline elements of forest brown soils, environment Acidic are is increased, and soil lea','Beech (Fagus orientalis Lipsky) is one of the most important of Caspian forest trees in northern Iran, which due to the nature of popular shade, good regeneration, competition and high mortality in most habitats has become dominant on other forest trees. In terms of appearance, beech trees in Europe, is one of the young trees, in Central Europe, from about 3000 to 5000 years ago has occupied forested areas (Homasius, 1992). Of the five different ecological regions, only Hyrcanian mixed forests in northern Iran, with a similar area of 9.1 million hectares, are considered as productive forests, the design has been under the management of forestry, and Part of wooden products are needed to provide. These forests are dense and have high economic value, and have maximum number of trees per unit area (Delfan Abazari, 2005). Caspian beech, with the frequency of 23.6 percent, has allocated to itself about 30 percent of the volume of woods of Hyrcanian forests in northern Iran, and at altitude','Khalil Mohammadi, Vahid Hemmati and Alireza Eslami (2015). Soil type of Oriental Beech Stands in Elevation Levels of Hyrcanian Forests. Biological Forum â€“ An International Journal 7(1): 342-345.'),(4152,'117','Effects of Application Method and Level of Salicylic acid on some Morphological Characteristics of Ocimum basilicum L. Leaves under Sodium Chloride Salinity Stress','Farinaz Angooti and Hassan Nourafcan','60 FARINAZ ANGOOTI @ VAHIDEH.pdf','',1,'Salinity is one of the most important agricultural production barriers in arid and semiarid regions which lead to limitations for plants growth and production. Salicylic acid (SA) is a hormone-like substance which causes plant resistance to environmental stresses (heat, coldness, salinity and dryness).To examine interaction between salinity, foliar application and application method of SA on some morphological indexes of Basil (Ocimum basilicum L.) leaf, a factorial experiment was done. Factor A included application method of SA, factor B was four different levels of SA and factor C included the levels of salinity. The collected data were analyzed by SAS statistical software. The results showed that application method of SA, its concentration and the concentration of salinity influenced leaf length, width and dry weight. However, for the rest of the indexes the effect was not significant. Also the interaction between application method of SA and salinity concentration had significant e','Salicylic Acid, salinity, Ocimum basilicum, application method','Salinity is one of the most important agricultural production barriers in arid and semiarid regions which lead to limitations for plants growth and production. Salicylic acid (SA) is a hormone-like substance which causes plant resistance to environmental stresses (heat, coldness, salinity and dryness).To examine interaction between salinity, foliar application and application method of SA on some morphological indexes of Basil (Ocimum basilicum L.) leaf, a factorial experiment was done. Factor A included application method of SA, factor B was four different levels of SA and factor C included the levels of salinity. The collected data were analyzed by SAS statistical software. The results showed that application method of SA, its concentration and the concentration of salinity influenced leaf length, width and dry weight. However, for the rest of the indexes the effect was not significant. Also the interaction between application method of SA and salinity concentration had significant e','Aromatic plants represent a renewable source of flavoring substances, which can be used in the food, perfumery and pharmaceutical industries (Gharib, 2006). Basil (Ocimum basilicum L.) is one of the important kinds of lamiaceae family which is used as a kind of spice, a medical plant or fresh vegetable (Farzaneh et al., 2011). It has been introduced as a medical plant in most of the pharmacopeias. Ocimum basilicum contains essence and is used as a treatment for some diseases and in food, cosmetics and perfume industry. Its essence has antibacterial and antifungal characteristics and controls insects. (Hassani et al., 2004). Salinity is the main osmotic tension which leads to plants growth and production limitations. Depending on its concentration, the performance and growth of the plant decrease. The more the salinity concentration, the more remarkable the reduction in growth will be. Research has shown that salinity results in a decrease in performance and the dry substance of the pla','Farinaz Angooti and Hassan Nourafcan (2015). Effects of Application Method and Level of Salicylic acid on some Morphological Characteristics of Ocimum basilicum L. Leaves under Sodium Chloride Salinity Stress. Biological Forum â€“ An International Jou'),(4153,'117','Detection Salmonella spp. Carriers in Camel using Polymerase Chain Reaction and Cultural methods','Mohammad Zavarshani, Maryam Kownani, Ehsan Estabraghi and Erfan Yarahmadi','61 MOHAMMAD ZAVARSHANI.pdf','',1,'In this study, polymerase chain reaction (PCR) method and cultivation methods were used and compared to detect carriers of Salmonella spp. in camel. 285 feces samples were collected from camels in Kerman province, Iran, in July 2013. Samples were tested for Salmonella isolation by culturing techniques and biochemical testes. Feces samples were enriched in enrichment broth and deoxyribonucleic acid (DNA) was extracted and amplified by PCR using specific primers of Salmonella invasion gene (invA). PCR products were visualized using 1.2% agarose gel electrophoresis. The results of bacterial culturing were negative for all samples, whilst results from the PCR method confirmed the presence of Salmonella in 23 camel feces samples (8%). This result indicated that camel may be a reservoir for Salmonella spp. Also the PCR method is highly sensitive and rapid for Salmonella detection in feces compared to other routine methods.','Salmonella, invA gene, PCR, Camel, Iran','In this study, polymerase chain reaction (PCR) method and cultivation methods were used and compared to detect carriers of Salmonella spp. in camel. 285 feces samples were collected from camels in Kerman province, Iran, in July 2013. Samples were tested for Salmonella isolation by culturing techniques and biochemical testes. Feces samples were enriched in enrichment broth and deoxyribonucleic acid (DNA) was extracted and amplified by PCR using specific primers of Salmonella invasion gene (invA). PCR products were visualized using 1.2% agarose gel electrophoresis. The results of bacterial culturing were negative for all samples, whilst results from the PCR method confirmed the presence of Salmonella in 23 camel feces samples (8%). This result indicated that camel may be a reservoir for Salmonella spp. Also the PCR method is highly sensitive and rapid for Salmonella detection in feces compared to other routine methods. ','Camel is an important source of milk, wool and meat, as well as transport and handling, must play a larger role than it have in the world. So more scientific attention need to pay on camel researches. Salmonella is a worldwide pathogen and can be found in a large number of dairy farms and in many species of animals including mammals, birds, insects, reptiles and human that can result in enterocolitis, septicemia and death (Mirmomeni et al., 2008). The genus of Salmonella is a gramâ€“ negative bacteria in the family of Entrobacteriacea and will be divided into two species, Salmonella enterica and Salmonella bongori. Salmonellosis is an important zoonotic disease (Keusch, 2002). Some adult animals after recover from Salmonella infection may become active carriers and excrete the organism in their feces for years (Braun and Methner, 2011). These asymptomatic carrier animals can become a natural reservoir of Salmonella responsible for a silent introduction of the bacteria into the food cha','Mohammad Zavarshani, Maryam Kownani, Ehsan Estabraghi and Erfan Yarahmadi (2015). Detection Salmonella spp. Carriers in Camel using Polymerase Chain Reaction and Cultural methods . Biological Forum â€“ An International Journal 7(1): 352-356. '),(4154,'117','Effect of low irrigation and Zn and SiO2 Nano-fertilizers and Conventional Fertilizers on Morphophysiological traits and seed yield of Sunflower','Narges Asadzade,Seyyed Gholamreza Moosavi and Mohamad Javad Seghatoleslami','62 SEYYED GHOLAMREZA MOOSAVI.pdf','',1,'In order to investigate the effect of foliar application of conventional and nano-fertilizers (ZnO and SiO2) on yield, morphological and physiological traits and harvest index of sunflowers under water deficit stress an experiment was conducted as a split-plot based on a Randomized Complete Block Design with three replications at experimental field of Islamic Azad University, Birjand Branch, Birjand, Iran in 2014. The main plot was devoted to irrigation at two levels (irrigation after 100 and 200 mm cumulative evaporation from evaporation pan) and the sub-plot was devoted to foliar spray of ZnO and SiO2 at seven levels (nano ZnO, nano SiO2, ZnO, SiO2, nano ZnO + nano SiO2, ZnO + SiO2, and control with no foliar spray). Means comparison showed that water deficit stress decreased plant height, head diameter, stomatal conductance, chlorophyll index, seed yield and harvest index of seed by 20.8, 16.9, 27, 2.4, 50.3 and 24.9%, respectively as compared to no-stress condition','Sunflower, low irrigation, nano-fertilizers, morphological and physiological traits','In total, it was found that the application of water deficit stress on sunflowers reduced seed yield by 50.3%. Moreover, the application of ZnO significantly influenced vegetative traits and economical yield of sunflowers. Thus, it is recommended to treat irrigation after 100 mm cumulative evaporation and to apply conventional ZnO (5:1000) in the cultivation of sunflower under conditions similar to Birjand, Iran.','Iran with mean annual precipitation of 240 mm is categorized in arid zones of the world. High evapotranspiration, limited water resources and other parameters invokes the interests for studying the effect of water stress and selecting drought-resistant cultivars (Seghatoleslami et al., 2004). Plants face various environmental stresses during their growth, each one having different effects on their growth, metabolism and yield depending on their sensitivity and growth stage (Heidari, 2006). The loss of yield due to stomatal closure, stunted growth, deficiency of assimilates for filling the grains, and the shortening of the grain filling period are some important consequences of drought for plants (Reddy et al., 2004).\r\nOn the other hand, the application of conventional fertilizers has been criticized in recent years due to their adverse effects on environment and food quality. Therefore, the application of new methods for fertilizing soil and feeding plants has been taken into considera','Narges Asadzade,Seyyed Gholamreza Moosavi and Mohamad Javad Seghatoleslami (2015). Effect of low irrigation and Zn and SiO2 Nano-fertilizers and Conventional Fertilizers on Morphophysiological traits and seed yield of Sunflower . Biological Forum â€“ An '),(4155,'112','Effect of Integrated Nutrient Management on Growth and Yield of Banana Cv. Grand Naine (AAA) (Main Crop)','P. Tanuja*, K.Vanajalatha, M. Hanuman Nayak, Veena Joshi, D. Saida Naik and D. Srinivasa Chary','287 Effect of Integrated Nutrient Management on Growth and Yield of Banana Cv. Grand Naine AAA Main Crop P. Tanuja.pdf','',1,'For optimal productivity and economic benefits, the banana crop requires a high fertilizer supply. High crop yields are obtained with good soil fertility, which can be increased by adding organic and inorganic fertilizer sources. The present investigation was carried out during 2017-2018 at Horticultural Research Station, Aswaraopet, Bhadradri Kothagudem district, Telangana State. The experiment was carried by planting tissue culture banana Cv. Grand Naine plants at spacing of 1.8 Ã— 1.8m with eleven treatment combinations with different fertigation levels along with organics like arka microbial consortium, neem cake, jeevamrutha with and without bunch covering which was conducted as a integrated study with Randomized Block Design (RBD) and replicated thrice. For the growth characters like pseudostem height, after three and five months of planting the treatment T4 has recorded significantly highest pseudostem height of 79.32cm and 159.30 cm respectively, which are significantly differi','Arka Microbial Consortium, Arka banana special, Neem Cake, Jeevamrutha, INM','From the investigation, it is concluded that banana responded favourably to organic nutrients in combination with chemical fertilizers.The integrated use of organics i.e, Arka Microbial Consortium (AMC), neem cake, jeevamrutha, panchagavya and inorganic nutrients through 75 per cent fertigation along with bunch protective measures has given the good results. Hence the integrated nutrient management practices in banana crop have been found to be an ideal option to improve yield.','INTRODUCTION\r\nBanana (Musa spp.) belongs to the family Musaceae is one of the oldest fruits known to mankind. It is also known as Apple of Paradise and one of the most important sources of tropical fruits in the world as it is a significant staple food as well as a major export commodity (Rahman et al., 2013). Banana is a fourth important food crop in terms of gross value exceeded only by paddy, wheat and milk products and forms an important crop for subsistence farmers. \r\nApplication of inorganic fertilizers though increases the yield substantially but could not able to sustain the fertility status of the soil and have caused several undesirable consequences in the fragile soil eco-system, leading to gradual decline in productivity. Chemical fertilizers have some deleterious effects on fruit quality besides adverse effects on soil, water and environmental conditions (Dutta et al., 2010). On the other hand, organic and microbial sources of nutrients have advantage of consistent and slo','P. Tanuja, K.Vanajalatha, M. Hanuman Nayak, Veena Joshi, D. Saida Naik and D. Srinivasa Chary (2022). Effect of Integrated Nutrient Management on Growth and Yield of Banana Cv. Grand Naine (AAA) (Main Crop). Biological Forum â€“ An International Journal,'),(4156,'117','Adipose Secreted Resistin In Response to Submaximal Exercise in Respiratory Patients','Jenabi Ahmad, Dastigerdi Mehdi and Abbasi Mohammadsaleh','63 JENABI AHMAD @ EZADI.pdf','',1,'Obesity is considered to be a risk factor for asthma cardiovascular or respiratory diseases. This study aimed to determine the association of serum resistin as inflammatory adipokine with obesity determinants and its acute response to a submaximal exercise test in asthma patients. For this purpose, serum resistin and anthropometrical markers were measured in fourteen adult males with mild to moderate asthma. Serum resistin was also measured after a submaximal exercise test. Data were evaluated using, paired t and Pearson\'s tests. Serum resistin was positively associated with anthropometrical marked such as body weight, abdominal circumference, BMI and body fat (%) as obesity determinants (p < 0.05). serum resistin concentration did not change by exercise test when compared to pretest (p = 0.65). Our finding indicates that a submaximal exercise test that is not associated with negative energy balance has no significant acute effect on serum resistin in asthma patients.','Submaximal exercise, Resistin, Inflammation, Respiratory diseases','Obesity is considered to be a risk factor for asthma cardiovascular or respiratory diseases. This study aimed to determine the association of serum resistin as inflammatory adipokine with obesity determinants and its acute response to a submaximal exercise test in asthma patients. For this purpose, serum resistin and anthropometrical markers were measured in fourteen adult males with mild to moderate asthma. Serum resistin was also measured after a submaximal exercise test. Data were evaluated using, paired t and Pearson\'s tests. Serum resistin was positively associated with anthropometrical marked such as body weight, abdominal circumference, BMI and body fat (%) as obesity determinants (p < 0.05). serum resistin concentration did not change by exercise test when compared to pretest (p = 0.65). Our finding indicates that a submaximal exercise test that is not associated with negative energy balance has no significant acute effect on serum resistin in asthma patients. ','Over the past two decades, it has been repeatedly proposed that adipocytokines have a role in obesity and insulin resistance [1]. Most clinical studies support an increased adipokines or inflammatory adipocytokines or reduced anti-inflammatory cytokines in the presence of obesity [2, 3]. The role of theses peptide mediators has been frequently suggested in obesity-related diseases and other chronic diseases associated with metabolic disorders such as type 2 diabetes, atherosclerosis, and insulin resistance [1, 4].\r\nAmong the inflammatory mediators, the role of resistin in metabolic disorders has always been pointed out. Resistin is often produced in the adipose tissue. It reduces the insulin sensitivity in the adipose and skeletal muscle tissues through reducing the glucose transport [5]. It has an effective role in obesity, inflammation, atherosclerosis, and insulin resistance [6] as an increased resistin is associated with the increased occurrence of obesity and obesity-related disea','Jenabi Ahmad, Dastigerdi Mehdi and Abbasi Mohammadsaleh (2015). Adipose Secreted Resistin In Response to Submaximal Exercise in Respiratory Patients . Biological Forum â€“ An International Journal 7(1): 365-370. '),(4157,'117','Ethical Issues in Genetic Engineering','Mohammad Javad Rashidabadi, Baratali Fakheri and Mehrdad Asadian','64 MOHAMMAD JAVAD RASHIDABADI.pdf','',1,'Biotechnology is the use of living systems and organisms to develop or make useful products, or any technological application that uses biological systems, living organisms or derivatives thereof, to make or modify products or processes for specific use. it is at the intersection of science and ethics. Technological developments are shaped by an ethical vision, which in turn is shaped by available technology. Biotechnology can produce unanticipated consequences that cause harm or people. The ethical assessment of new technologies, including biotechnology, requires a different approach to ethics. Changes are necessary because new technology can have a more profound impact on the world. Given the potential to profoundly change the future course of humanity, such questions require careful consideration. The power and potential of biotechnology demands caution to ensure ethical progress.','Bioethics, Biotechnology, Personhood, Responsibility, Rights','Biotechnology is the use of living systems and organisms to develop or make useful products, or any technological application that uses biological systems, living organisms or derivatives thereof, to make or modify products or processes for specific use. it is at the intersection of science and ethics. Technological developments are shaped by an ethical vision, which in turn is shaped by available technology. Biotechnology can produce unanticipated consequences that cause harm or people. The ethical assessment of new technologies, including biotechnology, requires a different approach to ethics. Changes are necessary because new technology can have a more profound impact on the world. Given the potential to profoundly change the future course of humanity, such questions require careful consideration. The power and potential of biotechnology demands caution to ensure ethical progress.','Biotechnology is about understanding life and using this knowledge to benefit people. Many see biotechnology as a significant force in improving the quality of peopleâ€™s lives in the 21st century. A two-way flow exists in which ethics influences biotechnology even while the science impacts ethics. The relationship between biotechnology and ethics is portrayed as one of conflict. Sometimes the impression is conveyed that ethics is needed only when someone wants to tell others that what they are doing is wrong. To a degree, this is understandable since controversy, debate and argument are usually integral to ethics discussions (Kochhar et al, 2005).\r\nEthics is just as important when there is consensus that a direction is good and right. The role of ethics is often invisible at this stage. There wasnâ€™t an ethical debate over whether to search for a cure for cancer. But the decision to pursue such research was motivated by a common vision that curing cancer was the ethical thing to do. ','Mohammad Javad Rashidabadi, Baratali Fakheri and Mehrdad Asadian (2015). Ethical Issues in Genetic Engineering . Biological Forum â€“ An International Journal 7(1): 371-374.'),(4158,'117','Modeling and Sensitivity Analysis of Environmental Impacts for Eggplant Production using Artificial Neural Networks','Ahmad Sadeghzadeh, Majid Yousefinejad-Ostadkelayeh and Ashkan Nabavi-Pelesaraei','65 ASHKAN NABAVI-PELESARAEI.pdf','',1,'A model made of the composition of concepts and artificial inelegance is one of best methods for modeling. In this study, the artificial neural network was used for modeling of environmental impacts in eggplant production of Guilan province in Iran. The initial data were calculated from farmers in the studied area by questionnaire method in the studied region. The eleven environmental impacts were considered for life cycle assessment of eggplant production. Accordingly, the CML 2 baseline 2000 method was applied in SimaPro 8.0.3 software package. The results indicated the global warming potential was calculated about 253 kg CO2 eq. as most important environmental index for production of 1 ton eggplant. As can be seen, machinery had the highest share of emission in all indices; followed by nitrogen and pesticides. In another hands, the ANN model developed based on Levenberg-Marquardt learning Algorithm. The seven items of life cycle inventory and environmental impacts was considered for','Artificial neural networks; Eggplant; Environmental impacts; Prediction','In this study the environmental impacts of eggplant production was determined and the ANN method was used for modeling and sensitivity of the LCA indices. It should be noted, this research was done in Guilan province of Iran as one of main eggplant producer in north of Iran. However, the results indicated the high consumption of non-renewable resources was the main reason for high rate of emissions in several environmental impacts. The rate of GWP was calculated about 253 kg CO2 eq. for eggplant production. Also, machinery was the most effective inputs in all of impacts. The modeling results demonstrated ANN model with 7-8-8-11 structure was the best topology for prediction of environmental impacts. According to sensitivity analysis results, the sensitivity values were varied between 0.638 and 0.996 and nitrogen had the most rates among all input for sensitivity analysis in most indicators.','Eggplant (Solanum melongena) is a species of nightshade commonly known in British English as aubergine and also known as brinjal, brinjal eggplant, melongene, garden egg, or guinea squash. As a member of the genus Solanum, it is related to both the tomato and the potato. It was originally domesticated in India from the wild nightshade, the thorn or bitter apple. China, Mainland China and India have the highest rate of eggplant production. After these countries, Iran had fourth largest producer of eggplant in the world (Nabavi-Pelesaraei et al., 2013a). Life cycle assessment (LCA) is defined as the â€œcompilation and evaluation of the inputs, outputs and potential environmental impacts of a product system throughout its life cycleâ€ (GuinÃ©e, 2004). Thus, LCA is a tool for the analysis of the environmental bur-den of products at all stages in their life cycle from the extraction of resources, through the production of materials, product parts and the product itself, and the use of the ','Ahmad Sadeghzadeh, Majid Yousefinejad-Ostadkelayeh and Ashkan Nabavi-Pelesaraei (2015). Modeling and Sensitivity Analysis of Environmental Impacts for Eggplant Production using Artificial Neural Networks . Biological Forum â€“ An International Journal '),(4159,'117','Numerical Simulation of the Flow Pattern in the Aeration Tank of Sewage Treatment System by the Activated Sludge Process Using Fluent Program','Hazhar Hadad and Jamil Ghaderi','66 JAMIL GHADERI.pdf','',1,'One of the most important parts of the process in water or wastewater treatment plant is in the activated sludge system of the aeration unit. The analysis of the flow pattern and velocity distribution in the tank is one of the important parameters in increasing the treatment efficiency of the unit, therefore identifying the static locations and the places with high velocity can be an accurate design index of this unit. In the present study the simulation of an aerated wastewater treatment tank in terms of two-phase conditions has been evaluated for the first time. One of the three tanks is the wastewater treatment tank located in Pardis Nazlu through the networked Gambit program then the networking was measured by the fluent program. Since the water in the tank is still the simulation and velocity distribution is performed by the static flow and through aeration with a pipe with 280.2 m/h velocity. The simulation was performed at the moment of the air conditioning; the rate and the cha','Flow pattern, Tank aeration, Activated sludge, Fluent','One of the most important parts of the process in water or wastewater treatment plant is in the activated sludge system of the aeration unit. The analysis of the flow pattern and velocity distribution in the tank is one of the important parameters in increasing the treatment efficiency of the unit, therefore identifying the static locations and the places with high velocity can be an accurate design index of this unit. In the present study the simulation of an aerated wastewater treatment tank in terms of two-phase conditions has been evaluated for the first time. One of the three tanks is the wastewater treatment tank located in Pardis Nazlu through the networked Gambit program then the networking was measured by the fluent program. Since the water in the tank is still the simulation and velocity distribution is performed by the static flow and through aeration with a pipe with 280.2 m/h velocity. The simulation was performed at the moment of the air conditioning; the rate and the cha','All the communities in daily activities produce waste substances that may be solid, liquid or gas form. Liquid waste materials are so-called sewers or sewage. Sewer is the water that is contaminated by various applications. About 99.9 percentage of sewers is water and only about 0.1 percentage of it is consist of impurities such as suspended solids substance and colloidal and solution [1]. \r\nWastewater is not just sewage. All the water used in the home that goes down the drains or into the sewage collection system is wastewater. This includes water from baths, showers, sinks, dishwashers, washing machines and toilets. Small businesses and industries often contribute large amounts of wastewater to sewage collection systems; others operate their own wastewater treatment systems. In combined municipal sewage systems, water from storm drains is also added to the municipal wastewater stream.\r\n Wastewater is about 99 percent water by weight and is generally referred to as influent as it ente','Hazhar Hadad and Jamil Ghaderi (2015). Numerical Simulation of the Flow Pattern in the Aeration Tank of Sewage Treatment System by the Activated Sludge Process Using Fluent Program . Biological Forum â€“ An International Journal 7(1): 382-393. '),(4160,'117','Stability Analysis of Maize Yield by using Unvariate Statistical Method','Mahsa Shahryarinasab and Rajab Chogan','67 VAHIDEH SAMADIYAN.pdf','',1,'High interaction effect of G Ã— E may necessitate the creation of additional zones and as a result, make increase in cost of important commercial cultivars. Researchers have used different parameters to determine and introduce stability cultivars. 15 maize hybrids were investigated in complete randomized block design with four replications in three locations (Karaj, Mashhad and Jiroft) in two consecutive years (2011 and 2012). Variances indicated that interaction effect of genotype and environment (GE) was significant (Î±â‰¤0.01) that represents yield volatility in different environments. Accordingly, to study interaction effect and determine stable hybrid, different stability statistics method was used: Romer environmental variance, genotypic coefficient of variation, Rick Ecovalance method, Shukla stability variance, Lin and Binns within location variance, Eberhart and Russell regression method and simultaneous selection of stability and yield method. In the most used methods in this','Maize, genotype-environment interaction, stability parameters','According to variance and regression analysis, stability analysis of maize hybrids yield was conducted. In the methods based on variance analysis (YSi, CVy/1, MSy/1, oi2, wi2, cvi and Si2 parameters), genotypes of No. 6, 14, 5 and 10 were identified as stable ones. Results of Eberhart and Russell regression analysis showed that No. 2, 14, 10 and 3 had optimal adaptation with higher yield mean than total mean, regression coefficient and non-significant deviation of regression line. Genotypes of No. 14 and 10 as stable genotypes in many of the used methods with 11.364 and 11.071 ton/ha yield mean, respectively.','Crop plants yield have changes in different environments; so, inbreeding of cultivars with stability seems necessary for seed yield. Major difference in genotypes stability is due to crossover interaction effect of genotype and environment; therefore, changes in their rank are various in different environmental conditions. There are various methods for stability analysis and investigation the interaction effect of genotype Ã— environment (Asgariniya et al., 2008; Akbarpour et al., 2011). Stability analysis is a general solution for genotypes reaction to environmental changes (Chogan, 2011). Stability analysis methods can be divided into univariate and multivariate. Also, univariate methods can be separated to parametric and nonparametric groups and parametric univariate can be divided into stability analysis based on variance and regression analysis.\r\nPhenotypic stability is calculating by Romer and one genotype variance in different environment (Farshadfar, 1998). In fact, environment','Mahsa Shahryarinasab and Rajab Chogan (2015). Stability Analysis of Maize Yield by using Unvariate Statistical Method . Biological Forum â€“ An International Journal 7(1): 394-399 .'),(4161,'117','Misopates orontium (L.) Raf. (Plantaginaceae): A new record to the Flora of Gujarat State, India','S.K. Patel, B.L. Punjani, P.R. Desai and V.B. Pandey','68 DR PR DESAI GUJRAT.pdf','',1,'Misopates orontium (L.) Raf. (Synonyms: Antirrhinum orontium L.) is reported for the first time from Sabarkantha district of Gujarat State. It occurs as a weed in Vijaynagar taluka of Sabarkantha district, Gujarat. It is a herbaceous annual plant of the family Plantaginaceae (earlier Scrophulariaceae). It is a native of disturbed ground in Europe. This species is a new record in the area and also from the State. A taxonomic account of Misopates orontium (L.) Raf. also given for further taxonomic studies. An illustration of plant with photographs and herbarium sheet are also provided for further confirmation and identification of this species.','Misopates orontium (L.) Raf., Plantaginaceae, New record, Gujarat, India','Misopates orontium (L.) Raf. (Synonyms: Antirrhinum orontium L.) is reported for the first time from Sabarkantha district of Gujarat State. It occurs as a weed in Vijaynagar taluka of Sabarkantha district, Gujarat. It is a herbaceous annual plant of the family Plantaginaceae (earlier Scrophulariaceae). It is a native of disturbed ground in Europe. This species is a new record in the area and also from the State. A taxonomic account of Misopates orontium (L.) Raf. also given for further taxonomic studies. An illustration of plant with photographs and herbarium sheet are also provided for further confirmation and identification of this species.','The district Sabarkantha is situated in the North-Eastern part of Gujarat State between 23.03Â°-24.30Â° N latitudes, and 72.43Â°-73.39Â° E longitudes. River Sabarmati flows North-South as a western boundary. Sabarkantha district is rich in floristic diversity and now well explored by various workers. It is one of the tribal districts of the Gujarat State. During one of our regular floristic surveys, few specimens of Misopates were collected from the cultivated field in Vijayangar taluka of Sabarkantha district, Gujarat State. On the critical examination, these specimens were confirmed as Misopates orontium (L.) Raf. This species has not been reported from Gujarat State (Cook, 1901-1908; Saxton & Sedgwik, 1918; Saxton, 1922; Santapau, 1962; Yogi, 1970; Shah, 1978; BSI, 1981; Meena, 2012; Parmar, 2012) and therefore it forms a new distributional report to the State. Voucher specimens SKP-266 are deposited in Government Science College, Gandhinagar and BARO herbarium at The M. S. Univers','S.K. Patel, B.L. Punjani, P.R. Desai and V.B. Pandey (2015). Misopates orontium (L.) Raf. (Plantaginaceae): A new record to the Flora of Gujarat State, India . Biological Forum â€“ An International Journal 7(1): 400-403.'),(4162,'117','Comparative Studies of the Scale Characters in four Mugilid Species (Family Mugilidae; Order Mugiliformes) from Karachi Coast, Pakistan','Zubia Masooda, Rehana Yasmeenb, Muhammad Samee Haiderc,Lakht-e-Zehrac, Omer Mukhtar Tararc, Mussarat-Ul-Ainb, Hameed-Ur-Rehamand, Asim Ullahe, Ihsan-Ul-Haqe, Muhammad Bilale and Md. Yeamin Hossainf\r\n','70 ZUBIA MASOOD.pdf','',1,'The present study based on the comparative studies of some scale characters e.g., scale types, shapes and types of ctenii, arrangement of radii and position of focus on scale in order to observe their significance in determining the systematic relationship among the four selected mugilid species i.e., Liza melinoptera, Liza macrolepis, Valamugil speigleri and Mugil cephalus from Karachi coast. Both cycloid and ctenoid scales were present that shows great variations in their arrangement on the different body regions of these fishes. Two types of ctenoid scales were observed in this study such as, Liza melinoptera, Liza macrolepis, and Mugil cephalus contain basic-type of ctenoid scales, while Valamugil speigleri have crenate-type of ctenoid scales. Furthermore, large variations had been observed not only in the main types of scales, but also in the shapes and arrangement of ctenii and radii and position of the focus on the ctenoid and cycloid scales among these mugilid species. Hence','Comparative studies of scale characters, scale shapes, types of ctenii, mugilid species','The identification of any fish species or population is quite necessary for the fisheries conservation and management. Therefore, it is necessary to identify any specimen during the investigations of various biological traits like growth, mortality, fecundity, tropic relationship, parasitic relationship and paleontological events. Traditionally, identification of any fish specimen is usually based on morphometric and meristic characteristics (Katselis et al., 2006). However, all these methods are sometimes unreliable. Therefore, several workers have been used various scale characters in the systematic classification of fishes. As fish scales were commonly used by several workers for the examination of ages and growth in fish (Campana, 2001, Hotos, 2003), but after the analysis of different scale characteristics by several workers proved that fish scales can also be considered as useful tools for systematic classifications of the different fish species. \r\nHence, in the present study, i','Fish scales can be define as small rigid plates that provide protections against certain diseases and predators, and also help in locomotion. The study of systematic relationships among the different mugilid species based on morphometric and meristic characters of their bodies are sometimes become confused due to the similarities in the external morphology or body shapes. Hence, it was very difficult to determine the exact taxonomic status of species. As fish scales exhibit great variations in their shapes, sizes, structures and arrangements in the different body regions of fish (Ikoma et al., 2003; Kardong, 2008), therefore, several workers have been used different scale characteristics for fish identification including, Agassiz (1833-34), the first scientist who classified all fishes into four main groups such as, (i) Les Placoides (ii) Les Ganoides (iii) Les Cycloides (iv) Les Ctenoides (Creaser, 1926) on the basis of their scale types. In the beginning, scale morphology had limit','Zubia Masooda, Rehana Yasmeenb, Muhammad Samee Haiderc,Lakht-e-Zehrac, Omer Mukhtar Tararc, Mussarat-Ul-Ainb, Hameed-Ur-Rehamand, Asim Ullahe, Ihsan-Ul-Haqe, Muhammad Bilale and Md. Yeamin Hossainf\r\n (2015). Comparative Studies of the Scale Characters i'),(4163,'117','Distribution of Pteropods (Thecosomata and Gymnosomata) from the coastal waters of Orissa and Andhra Pradesh','Anindita Basu, Jasmine Purushothaman and Jayeeta Dey','71 JASMINE PURUSHOTHAMAN.pdf','',1,'This paper deals with the collection of planktonic pteropods from the coastal waters of southern Orissa and Northern Andhra Pradesh coast during winter monsoon. The collection of pteropods comprising about 6 species belonging to three genera and three family. Among the 6 species, Creseis virgula and Creseis chierchiae were not reported previously from the coastal waters of northern Bay of Bengal. So these 2 species are new records from the east coast of India. ','Zooplankton, Pteropoda, Thecosomata, Bay of Bengal','This paper deals with the collection of planktonic pteropods from the coastal waters of southern Orissa and Northern Andhra Pradesh coast during winter monsoon. The collection of pteropods comprising about 6 species belonging to three genera and three family. Among the 6 species, Creseis virgula and Creseis chierchiae were not reported previously from the coastal waters of northern Bay of Bengal. So these 2 species are new records from the east coast of India. ','Pteropods (Thecosomata & Gymnosomata) are the group of holoplanktonic molluscs belonging to the Class Gastropoda. They are commonly called sea butterflies and found very fewer numbers in the zooplankton collections. They are small zooplankton that drifts through ocean waters consuming smaller plankton. They either graze on phytoplankton or prey on smaller zooplankton and are themselves food for larger organisms like sea birds, whales and commercially important fish mackerel, herring, salmon. Therefore these planktonic pteropods have a significant role in the food web of marine ecosystem and the ecology of epipelagic marine communities. Among zooplankton, the most abundant group of gastropod is pteropod and is adapted to the pelagic free swimming life. Of the approximately 50,000 marine species of gastropods, only 244 species are holoplanktonic (van der Spoel et al., 1997). They are wide spread in the surface waters of open oceans of the tropical, subtropical latitudes (BÃ© and Gilmer, ','Anindita Basu, Jasmine Purushothaman and Jayeeta Dey (2015). Distribution of Pteropods (Thecosomata and Gymnosomata) from the coastal waters of Orissa and Andhra Pradesh .Biological Forum â€“ An International Journal 7(1): 419-425.'),(4164,'117','Studying the Level of Liver Enzymes and Lipid Profile in Long-ear Hedgehog (Hemiechinus auritus)','Mehdi Jahantigh','72 MEHDI JAHANTIGH.pdf','',1,'Blood, as a fluid and easy-access tissue, is one of the most important fluids of the body that its composition is exposed to fluctuations and changes under the influence of biological and pathological states. Therefore, awareness about the normal values of blood parameters and the way they change in different diseases has always been an important tool in the diagnosis of diseases in humans and animals. Long-ear hedgehog is one of the animal species found in Central Asia and the Middle East countries. In order to study the serum biochemical parameters including liver enzymes and lipid profile, blood samples were taken from 20 long-ear hedgehogs (8 males and 12 females). The results showed that mean Â± standard deviation of cholesterol, triglyceride (in mmol/L), AST, ALT, and ALP (U/L) in males and females is equal to 3.75Â±0.74 and 3.66Â±0.67, 0.85Â±0.15 and 0.77Â±0.14, 22.75Â±5.5 and 31.63Â±8.68, 52.41Â±6.74 and 57.63Â±9.25, and 35.08Â±10.63 and 33.45Â±10.30, respectively. A significa','Liver enzymes; Lipid profile; Long-ear hedgehog ','The results showed great differences between species of hedgehog and other small mammals in terms of liver enzymes and lipid profile. Also, a significant difference was observed between males and females in AST activity level, suggesting the impact of gender on the activity of this enzyme. Awareness about the normal levels of liver enzymes and lipid profile in long-ear hedgehog can pave the way for laboratory studies and early diagnosis of diseases in this species.','Long-ear hedgehog lives in countries such as Iran, Iraq, Egypt, Syria, China, and Uzbekistan. This species is mostly insectivorous but may also feed on vegetables and small plants (Poddar et al., 2011; Qumsiyeh, 1996). Parasitic infections that causes severe anemia and transmission of infectious diseases, tumors, gingivitis, and bacterial and fungal diseases are factors that have jeopardized the life of this species (Thamm, 2009; Christian, 2014). Moreover, hedgehogs can carry the pathogens of common diseases such as Salmonella, Yersinia pseudotuberculosis, Rhabdoviruses, Hanta virus, and Trichophyton mentagrophytes (Riley & Chomel, 2005). In recent years, many studied have been conducted on diseases of hedgehog and especially parasitic diseases (Thamm, 2009). Hematological and biochemical parameters have been also investigated in African and European hedgehog (Christian et al., 2014; Rossi et al., 2014). However, it seems that no scientific study has been carried out on long-ear hedge','Mehdi Jahantigh (2015). Studying the Level of Liver Enzymes and Lipid Profile in Long-ear Hedgehog (Hemiechinus auritus) . Biological Forum â€“ An International Journal 7(1): 426-428 .'),(4165,'117','Investigating the Effects of Drought Stress of End of Season on Performance of Storage, of Photosynthesis and Genotypes of Durum Wheat in Ahwaz','Saeideh Kheirandish, Nazanin Khademifar, Mosa Khatamipour and Bahram Andarzian','73 MOSA KHATAMIPOUR.pdf','',1,'Potentiality of storing materials in stalk and yield of Remobilization them to seed in crops, specially under the condition of drought stress, are among the fundamental elements of determining and an analyzing differences of performance of different species and varieties of agriculture. In order to do this, an experiment was done using split plots in format of completely random blocks, repeated 3 times, in two conditions: ideal watering condition and drought stress, in agricultural researches farm in Ahwaz, in 1389-90. In this experiment, main factor included two conditions of watering (without stopping watering, stop watering in the time of seed filling) minor factor included genotype of Durum wheat in five levels, including Karkheh, Dena, Behrang, D-84-6, D- 84-9. Results of the experiment showed that drought stress decreased performance and parts of performance in investigated items, comparing to moralized watering conditions with respect to yield of re-transferring and amount of st','drought stress, photosynthetic materials, Durum wheat, yield. ','Potentiality of storing materials in stalk and yield of Remobilization them to seed in crops, specially under the condition of drought stress, are among the fundamental elements of determining and an analyzing differences of performance of different species and varieties of agriculture. In order to do this, an experiment was done using split plots in format of completely random blocks, repeated 3 times, in two conditions: ideal watering condition and drought stress, in agricultural researches farm in Ahwaz, in 1389-90. In this experiment, main factor included two conditions of watering (without stopping watering, stop watering in the time of seed filling) minor factor included genotype of Durum wheat in five levels, including Karkheh, Dena, Behrang, D-84-6, D- 84-9. Results of the experiment showed that drought stress decreased performance and parts of performance in investigated items, comparing to moralized watering conditions with respect to yield of re-transferring and amount of st','Iran has hot and dry climate and drought is one of the most important challenges which limits yield, specially in tropical areas. (Abdulai et al., 2008) on the other side, drought is one of the most important threats of the world for producing food staffs, furthermore, changes in weather and increases for world\'s population have expanded the problem one of the solutions for the problem is creating new items which have more resistance against drought stress (Talked and Matsuoka., 2008). Increasing yield under drought stress condition, needs genotypes which are resistant and it also needs management for minimizing available water. Periodical drought stress in critical stages of grains, decreases the yield (Bdulai et al., 2008). In grains, specially wheat, in. period of growth, gathering of dry material in plant is more than its need to grow. In this situation, extra photosynthetic materials would be stored in stalk as different sugars, and in other stages of growth, which usually start f','Saeideh Kheirandish, Nazanin Khademifar, Mosa Khatamipour and Bahram Andarzian (2015).Investigating the Effects of Drought Stress of End of Season on Performance of Storage, of Photosynthesis and Genotypes of Durum Wheat in Ahwaz. Biological Forum â€“ An '),(4166,'117','Analysis of Effect of Organic Fertilizer on Yield and Active Substance of Psyllium Herbal Plant (Plantago ovata L.)','Somayyeh Mirshekari and Mohammad Forouzandeh','74 SOMAYYEH MIRSHEKARI.pdf','',1,'In terms of environmental impact and qualitative and quantitative yield of medicinal plants, consumption management of organic fertilizers is very importance, especially in arid and semiarid areas. Organic matter is one of the most useful sources in improving the quality of cultivating lands and increasing the performance of different vegetables. To evaluate the effects of organic fertilizers on the yield and the active substance of the psyllium herb (Plantago ovata L.), an experiment was conducted on a field in Zabol in 2011-2012. The experiment was implemented in completely randomized blocks with three replications. Treatments consisted of different levels of organic fertilizers including 1) Manure (20ton/ ha), 2) composting (20 ton/ha), 3) lack of fertilizers. The results showed that grain yield, spike length, number of tillers, number of spike, 1000-seed weight, and mucilage content were significantly influenced by fertilization. In general, it can be inferred that the 20 ton/ ha t','organic fertilizer, Psyllium, grain yield, mucilage','In terms of environmental impact and qualitative and quantitative yield of medicinal plants, consumption management of organic fertilizers is very importance, especially in arid and semiarid areas. Organic matter is one of the most useful sources in improving the quality of cultivating lands and increasing the performance of different vegetables. To evaluate the effects of organic fertilizers on the yield and the active substance of the psyllium herb (Plantago ovata L.), an experiment was conducted on a field in Zabol in 2011-2012. The experiment was implemented in completely randomized blocks with three replications. Treatments consisted of different levels of organic fertilizers including 1) Manure (20ton/ ha), 2) composting (20 ton/ha), 3) lack of fertilizers. The results showed that grain yield, spike length, number of tillers, number of spike, 1000-seed weight, and mucilage content were significantly influenced by fertilization. In general, it can be inferred that the 20 ton/ ha t','During the recent century, numerous researches have been conducted on medicinal plants. In fact, natural medicines have opened the way to advent of new horizons for communities of doctors, pharmacologists, and other researchers. One of the most considerable issues in agriculture and medical science, and even world trade is paying attention to producing, processing, and using medicinal plants (Pirzad et al. 2006). At present, a third of medicines used for human have plant origins and this rate is rising sharply (Omidbeigi 1997). Low amounts of organic matter in soil in arid and semi- arid areas as well as the significance of organic matter in sustainable management of agricultural ecosystems in arid areas have taken the attention of researchers and farmers to organic fertilizers. Adding residual organic matter such as municipal waste compost , vermin compost, manure and crop residue to soil is a common practice in many parts of the world to preserve soil organic matter, soil fertili','Somayyeh Mirshekari and Mohammad Forouzandeh (2015). Analysis of Effect of Organic Fertilizer on Yield and Active Substance of Psyllium Herbal Plant (Plantago ovata L.) . Biological Forum â€“ An International Journal 7(1): 436-440 .'),(4167,'117','Influence of Salt Stress and Variety on some Characteristics of Corn','Mohammad Mahdi Akbari, Hamid Reza Mobasser and Hamid Reza Ganjali','75 HAMID REZA MOBASSER.pdf','',1,'Salinity is one of the serious environmental problems that cause osmotic stress and reduction in plant growth and crop productivity in irrigated areas of arid and semiarid regions. The agricultural areas affected by salt need amendment and determination of the most suitable plant species able to grow in these areas. High salinity levels caused significant reduction in growth parameters like leaf area, leaf length, root and shoot dry weights. Maize (Zea mays L.) is in the third rank after wheat and rice and is grown all over the world in a wide range of climatic condition. Being highly cross pollinated, maize has become highly polymorphic through the course of natural and domesticated evolution and thus contains enormous variability in which salinity tolerance may exist. The field experiment was laid out in randomized complete block design with factorial design with four replications. Treatments included salt stress (NaCl: 1, 2.3, 3.6, 4.9 gr/lit) and variety (540, 610). Analysis of var','corn, salt stress, variety','Salinity is one of the serious environmental problems that cause osmotic stress and reduction in plant growth and crop productivity in irrigated areas of arid and semiarid regions. The agricultural areas affected by salt need amendment and determination of the most suitable plant species able to grow in these areas. High salinity levels caused significant reduction in growth parameters like leaf area, leaf length, root and shoot dry weights. Maize (Zea mays L.) is in the third rank after wheat and rice and is grown all over the world in a wide range of climatic condition. Being highly cross pollinated, maize has become highly polymorphic through the course of natural and domesticated evolution and thus contains enormous variability in which salinity tolerance may exist. The field experiment was laid out in randomized complete block design with factorial design with four replications. Treatments included salt stress (NaCl: 1, 2.3, 3.6, 4.9 gr/lit) and variety (540, 610). Analysis of var','The rapid increase in the world population demands an expansion of crop areas to raise food production. In this context, a significant fraction of agricultural crops are cultivated on low quality soils, sometimes affected by salinity (Allen et al., 1983). According to Steppuhn and Wall (1999), salinity could be defined as a water property that indicates the concentration of dissolved solutes. Soil salinity refers to the state in which dissolved constituents concentrate beyond the needs of plant roots. It is well-known that salinity is a common stress factor in agricultural areas as a result of extensive irrigation with saline water and fertilizer application (McKersie and Leshem 1994). Salinity is one of the serious environmental problems that cause osmotic stress and reduction in plant growth and crop productivity in irrigated areas of arid and semiarid regions. The agricultural areas affected by salt need amendment and determination of the most suitable plant species able to grow in ','Mohammad Mahdi Akbari Hamid Reza Mobasser and Hamid Reza Ganjali (2015). Influence of Salt Stress and Variety on some Characteristics of Corn . Biological Forum â€“ An International Journal 7(1): 441-445. '),(4168,'112','Floristic Diversity in Alpine Pasture of Mural Danda of District Shimla, Himachal Pradesh','R. K. Verma* and Harish Chauhan','288 Floristic Diversity in Alpine Pasture of Mural Danda of District Shimla, Himachal Pradesh Dr RK Verma.pdf','',1,'The alpine pastures are mainly found in the Himalayan states and supposed to be only true grasslands in India. Due to unscientific management of pastures, a large number of pasture lands had been converted or are in the process of conversion to the degraded lands thereby bringing a shift in the natural equilibrium and plant diversity as well. In this scenario, it has become quite pertinent to carry out the ecological studies of these precious resources for assessing the loss in diversity and their scientific management. Accordingly studies to evaluate the floristic diversity and growth forms in alpine pasture of Mural Danda of district Shimla, Himachal Pradesh was conducted during August, 2019. Phyto-scociological studies was carried out by laying out quadrates randomly in the selected alpine pasture. The data collected was analyzed for density, frequency, abundance, important value index, dominance index, diversity index, distribution pattern, life forms etc for drawing the logical co','Dominance, Diversity index, distribution, Threatened plant ','In Mural Danda alpine pasture besides leguminous forbs and few grasses, non leguminous forbs were mostly dominant. The dominant non leguminous forbs are not preferred by the animals for eating. The contribution of short forbs were more than tall and cushion & spreading forbs. There is a need to take some steps to stop further decline in the density of preferred plant species and suitable strategies should be develop for management of alpine pasture by regulating the grazing.','INTRODUCTION\r\nThe alpine regions mainly fall in the great Himalayan, ranges and characterized with relatively low atmospheric pressure, invariably associated with low temperature, intense insulation, rapid and high ultra violet (UV) radiations along with their related effects as chain reactions. All these factors are closely and inseparably inter-linked and intricately intertwined in a complex chain of causes and effects thus constituting in reality, a self-regulating dynamic system termed as the alpine ecosystem. The plants in alpine region are in harmony with environment because they form the integral part of very processes that shaped their own environment. These plants are recognized by certain super- imposed morphological and taxonomic peculiarities, which form part of their adaptation to alpine environment. \r\nThe pastures in the alpine zone occupy about 1.52 per cent of the total land area in the country and are mainly concentrated in the Himalayan states of Arunachal Pradesh, Si','R.K. Verma and Harish Chauhan (2022). Floristic Diversity in Alpine Pasture of Mural Danda of District Shimla, Himachal Pradesh. Biological Forum â€“ An International Journal, 14(1): 1641-1646.'),(4169,'112','Zinc and Salicylic Acid Mediated Response in Crops Grown under Abiotic Stress','Yash Rathor, Pankaj Kumar Mishra and Prasann Kumar','289 Zinc and Salicylic Acid Mediated Response in Crops Grown under Abiotic Stress Prasann Kumar.pdf','',1,'In order to accelerate crop growth and development, zinc EDTA and salicylic acid are critical. It is known that salicylic acid serves as an effective defence against various types of stressors, pests, and diseases. Furthermore, salicylic acid has been shown to assist plants in overcoming a wide range of environmental challenges. Salicylic acid has been shown to influence many physiological processes. It is believed that zinc is a major macronutrient that contributes to the physiological processes that are necessary for plant growth to occur properly. It also promotes the production of auxin, chlorophyll, and carbohydrates, which are necessary for the growth of plants. Zinc EDTA is considered to be the most effective chelating agent since it works better than zinc sulphate with respect to chelating metals. Furthermore, foliar EDTA application has proven to be more effective than soil EDTA application. As far as crop production results are concerned, salicylic acid and zinc EDTA are both','Agriculture, Biotic, Chelators, Defence, Economy,Physiological, Salicylic, Stress, Zinc','The main reason is that EDTA fertilizers are significantly more effective for crop growth. As a result, zinc EDTA offers better results compared to its non-EDTA counterpart, which is a micronutrient or fertilizer. Salicylic acid also works as a plant protector because it provides a defence mechanism against a variety of stress conditions and other conditions which may cause harm to the crop. Salicylic acid helps the crop to withstand various harsh conditions. Based on the review of various research articles, this paper examines the effects of Salicylic acid and Zinc EDTA on their individual and combined use.','Salicylic acid is a phenolic plant hormone that combines a hydroxyl group with an aromatic group found primarily in plants (Dempsey and Klessig, 2017). Salicylic acid aids in many metabolic processes in plants, including stomatal closure, glycolysis, and seed germination. Salicylic acid is used both in the soil and as an exogenous application via foliar spray. In addition to acting as an endogenous signalling molecule, salicylic acid plays an imperative role in disease resistance and pest resistance. Zinc is one of the most critical micronutrients for plants, ranking first among all micronutrients. As a result, zinc serves as the primary component of the various enzyme catalysing agents in plants for a variety of metabolic reactions. It plays several roles in plants, including resistance to various diseases, photosynthesis, cell membrane integrity, protein synthesis, pollen formation, as well as increasing antioxidant enzymes and increasing chlorophyll in plant tissue. Plants are not t','Yash Rathor, Pankaj Kumar Mishra and Prasann Kumar (2022). Zinc and Salicylic Acid Mediated Response in Crops Grown under Abiotic Stress. Biological Forum â€“ An International Journal, 14(1): 1647-1652.'),(4170,'112','Estimation of Lead and Cadmium Concentration in Dung Samples of Dairy Cows','A. Yasotha','290 Estimation of Lead and Cadmium Concentration in Dung Samples of Dairy Cows A. Yasotha.pdf','',1,'Presence of heavy metal in the environment has become a major hazard to human and animals as it is a persistent pollutant. Accumulation of toxic heavy metals contaminates the food chain and cause health threat to the consumers. A field research was conducted to estimate the level of toxic heavy metals present in dung samples of dairy cattle reared around industrial areas of Vellore, Tiruppur and Karur districts of Tamil Nadu. A total number of 96 samples were collected from dairy cattle to estimate the presence of toxic heavy metals such as lead (Pb) and cadmium (Cd) in dung samples. The highest mean lead concentration of 2.376 Â± 0.461 ppm was recorded from dung samples of dairy cows in Karur district and all the samples were positive for lead in the study areas. However, the mean cadmium concentration (0.436Â±0.075 ppm) was highest in Tiruppur district. The percentage of total samples exceeded the mean value of dung was 29.17 per cent for lead and 22.92 per cent for cadmium.','lead, cadmium, dung samples, cow.','Among the toxic metals studied, the highest mean lead concentration in dung sample of dairy cows was recorded in Karur district whereas, the highest mean cadmium concentration was recorded in Karur district. Furthermore, the highest mean concentration of lead in Karur was five times higher than the highest mean cadmium concentration in dung sample of dairy cows from Tiruppur. The study requires further analysis with more number of samples at periodical interval to arrive at concrete conclusion for carrying out the remedial measures.','The toxic heavy metals coming from various industries like electroplating, automobile exhaustions and bicycle manufacturing industries entering the ecosystem may lead to geo accumulation, bioaccumulation and bio-magnification (Sherene, 2012). Industrial activities lead to possible transfer of heavy metals to cows from their rearing environment like water and plant, which can be accumulated and cause potential health risks to milk consumers (Yasotha et al., 2021). Lead being an abundant mineral with worldwide distribution pose threat to animal health and is accumulated in environment by industrial pollution (Patra et al., 2006). Among the water sources surface water samples had greater pollution than groundwater (Carolene et al., 2018) Higher level of cadmium on the plant leaves was attributed to the direct foliar deposition from agrochemicals and foliar absorption via atmospheric emission (Okunola et al., 2008). Roofing materials of the dairy animal house influenced the physiological ','A. Yasotha (2022). Estimation of Lead and Cadmium Concentration in Dung Samples of Dairy Cows. Biological Forum â€“ An International Journal, 14(1): 1653-1655.'),(4171,'112','Communication Behavior Analysis of the Member Farmers of Farmer Producer Organizations (FPOs)','Subha Laxmi Sahoo, Sarbani Das, Bibhuti Prasad Mohapatra, Biswajit Sahoo and Abhiram Dash','291 Communication Behavior Analysis of the Member Farmers of Farmer Producer Organizations FPOs Dr. Abhiram Dash.pdf','',1,'Farmer Producer Organization (FPOs) play an important role in organizing small and marginal farmers into group which will increase their marketing efficiency. Communication behavior of the farmers plays an important role in getting access to new technology, market information, appropriate solution of farm problems etc. so, by considering these points to know the communication behavior of the farmers and the factors contributing it the present study was undertaken in Kalahandi and Cuttack district of Odisha. Total 6 FPOs were selected, 4 from Kalahandi district and 2 from Cuttack district and 5 per cent framers of the total member were selected by following proportionate random sampling method and in this way total 186 farmers were selected for the study. Ex-post facto research design was followed. From the study it was revealed that majority farmers were found to have high level of extension agent contact (51.07 per cent) and medium level of mass media contact (55.92 per cent) after jo','Proportionate random sampling, Ex-post facto research design, Mass media, Risk orientation, Market orientation','In the study we found that majority of the farmers belonged to middle age category (between 31 to 53 years) had primary level of education, nuclear type family of up to 4 members, pucca housing type and majority were male member farmers. It was also found that majority farmers were small farmers of up to 2.5 acre of land holding, involve in agriculture and horticultural activities, getting annual income in between 50,001 to 1 lakh and medium level of \r\nparticipation in FPOs, economic motivation, risk orientation, and market orientation activities. It was revealed that member farmers had a high level of extension agent contact and medium level of mass media contact and due to FPOs there was 22 and 33 per cent increase in contact with extension agent and mass media respectively. It was realized that family type, family size, housing type, participation in FPOs, risk orientation and market orientation had a significant effect with the extension agent contact. Similarly, educ','FPOs are collective enterprises set up by farmers (mainly rural producers) to enable a better connection between the market and rural agricultural products. The main aim of the Farmer Producer Organization (FPOs) is to ensure a better income for the producers through an organization of their own. In India about 86.08 per cent of the total land holding owned by the small and marginal farmers and their number shows a raising trend in each year due to continuous fragmentation of land (Census report 2015-16). And these section of the farming society do not have the volume individually to get the benefit of economies of scale. In agricultural marketing there is a chain of intermediaries, who often work non-transparently leading to the situation, where producer receives only a small part of the value, which the ultimate consumer pays. So to eliminate this situation we need to accumulate the primary producers in to producer organization. This concept was first put forth by a panel of export l','Subha Laxmi Sahoo, Sarbani Das, Bibhuti Prasad Mohapatra, Biswajit Sahoo and Abhiram Dash (2022). Communication Behavior Analysis of the Member Farmers of Farmer Producer Organizations (FPOs). Biological Forum â€“ An International Journal, 14(1): 1656-16'),(4172,'112','Effect of Manure and Bio-fertilizers on Seed yield and Seedling characteristics of Carrot Seed Crop Grown in Northern Plains of India','Monika, Makhan Lal, V.P.S. Panghal and Amit Verma','292 Effect of Manure and Bio-fertilizers on Seed yield and Seedling characteristics of Carrot Seed Crop Grown in Northern Plains of India Amit Verma.pdf','',1,'Healthy seed and seedling of crop are the basic requirements for any successful crop production. Less germination percentage in carrot crop (60%) is undesirable; also the large amount of chemicals being sprayed in vegetable root crops is dangerous for consumers health. This study was carried out at Seed Research Farm of Department of Vegetable Science, CCS Haryana Agricultural University, Hisar during the spring-summer season of 2019-20. Objectives of this experiment were to analyse the effect of manures and biofertilziers on seed yield and seedling growth characteristics in carrot crop. The experiment consisted of fourteen treatments, viz., T1- Absolute control, T2- RDF (N:P:K 80:40:40 kg/ha), T3- Farmyard manure 25t/ha, T4- Poultry manure 4t/ha, T5- Vermicompost 8t/ha, T6- FYM 12.5t/ha + PM 2t/ha, T7- FYM 12.5t/ha + PM 2t/ha, T8- FYM 12.5t/ha + PM 2t/ha + VC 4t/ha, T9- FYM 12.5t/ha + PM 2t/ha + Azo + PSB, T10-FYM 12.5t/ha + Azo + PSB, T11- FYM 12.5t/ha + VC 4t/ha + Azo + PSB','Biofertilizers, carrot, manures, seed, vigour','Based on the results of this experiment, treatment T14 (FYM 12.5t/ha + PM 2t/ha + VC 4t/ha + Azo + PSB) was found superior to other treatment combinations for all the estimated seed related parameters. Thus, application of farmyard manure @12.5 t/ha along with poultry manure @ 2 t/ha and vermicompost @ 4t/ha + Azo + PSB is suggested for obtaining higher seed yield and quality in terms of seedling characteristics of carrot seed crop in northern plains of India.','INTRODUCTION\r\nCarrot (Daucus carota var. atrorubens) belonging to family Umbelliferae with chromosome number 2n=18 is a popular cool-season vegetable root crop. It is grown throughout the world, in temperate countries mainly during the spring-summer season, while in tropical regions, during the winter season. The area under carrot crop in India is reported to be 1.09 lakh ha with an annual production of 18.93 lakh metric tonnes (Anonymous, 2). Uttar Pradesh, Assam, Karnataka, Andhra Pradesh, Punjab and Haryana are the important growing states in India. In one season, it produces high-quality edible root and in two seasons, produces seeds. Its cultivated forms have been domesticated from wild species. Carrot is cultivated in some countries for its seed, which is the source of essential carrot seed oil. Carrot is grown from true seeds and its successful production is dependent upon a sustainable and satisfactory supply of good quality seed. \r\nOne of the major problems faced by carrot gro','Monika, Makhan Lal, V.P.S. Panghal and Amit Verma (2022). Effect of Manure and Bio-fertilizers on Seed yield and Seedling characteristics of Carrot Seed Crop Grown in Northern Plains of India. Biological Forum â€“ An International Journal, 14(1): 1661-16'),(4173,'117','Investigation on Habitat demands of Malus orientalis Ugl. in Zagros forests (case study: Divandareh, Kurdestan)','Omid Shamohamadi, Younes Asri, Gholamreza Bakhshi Khaniki and Mina Rabie','76 OMID SHAMOHAMADI.pdf','',1,'In this study the habitat needs of forest apple (Malus orientalis Ugl.) In Zagros forests (Case Study: Kurdistan Divandarah) were studied. Along transects were sampled randomly. The plot features of this species include canopy cover, density, height, largest diameter, shortest diameter, leaf length, leaf width, height, trunk diameter at breast height were measured and regeneration. Soil samples taken at each site and the number of physical and chemical properties were studied. In order to investigate the most effective factors in the establishment of this species in the habitat of the principal component analysis PCA was used with Minitab V.14 software. The results showed that the growth characteristics and environment of sand, seedlings, average maximum and minimum temperature, moisture content, PH and among the largest influence on the separation of re-forested habitat types.','Habitat needs, apple, forest, Divandarah, Kurdistan','In this study the habitat needs of forest apple (Malus orientalis Ugl.) In Zagros forests (Case Study: Kurdistan Divandarah) were studied. Along transects were sampled randomly. The plot features of this species include canopy cover, density, height, largest diameter, shortest diameter, leaf length, leaf width, height, trunk diameter at breast height were measured and regeneration. Soil samples taken at each site and the number of physical and chemical properties were studied. In order to investigate the most effective factors in the establishment of this species in the habitat of the principal component analysis PCA was used with Minitab V.14 software. The results showed that the growth characteristics and environment of sand, seedlings, average maximum and minimum temperature, moisture content, PH and among the largest influence on the separation of re-forested habitat types.','The Zagros habitat occupies a large part of the Zagros mountain range that extends from northwestern Iran (i.e, from Piranshahr in West Azarbaijan Province) to a location near Firozabad in Fars Province covering an area 1300 kilometers long with an average width of 200 kilometers. The Zagros forests, classified as semi-arid forests, have an area of five million hectares, constitute 40% of the forests in Iran, and exert the greatest influence on water provision, soil preservation, weather modification, and economic and social equilibrium in the whole country. At present, they are considered destroyed forests, with fuel wood gathering and grazing the main reasons for their destruction (Sagheb Talebi et al., 2004). The region of Divandarreh, which is situated in the Zagros Mountains, is considered Mediterranean in DeMartin\'s classification system and, due to its climate diversity, topographical position, etc., enjoys upland pastures and sparse forests that constitute its rich plant cover.','Omid Shamohamadi, Younes Asri, Gholamreza Bakhshi Khaniki and Mina Rabie (2015). Investigation on Habitat demands of Malus orientalis Ugl. in Zagros forests (case study: Divandareh, Kurdestan) . Biological Forum â€“ An International Journal 7(1): 446-450'),(4174,'117','Investigation on Habitat demands of Malus orientalis Ugl. in Zagros forests (case study: Divandareh, Kurdestan)','Omid Shamohamadi, Younes Asri, Gholamreza Bakhshi Khaniki and Mina Rabie','76 OMID SHAMOHAMADI.pdf','',1,'In this study the habitat needs of forest apple (Malus orientalis Ugl.) In Zagros forests (Case Study: Kurdistan Divandarah) were studied. Along transects were sampled randomly. The plot features of this species include canopy cover, density, height, largest diameter, shortest diameter, leaf length, leaf width, height, trunk diameter at breast height were measured and regeneration. Soil samples taken at each site and the number of physical and chemical properties were studied. In order to investigate the most effective factors in the establishment of this species in the habitat of the principal component analysis PCA was used with Minitab V.14 software. The results showed that the growth characteristics and environment of sand, seedlings, average maximum and minimum temperature, moisture content, PH and among the largest influence on the separation of re-forested habitat types.','Habitat needs, apple, forest, Divandarah, Kurdistan','In this study the habitat needs of forest apple (Malus orientalis Ugl.) In Zagros forests (Case Study: Kurdistan Divandarah) were studied. Along transects were sampled randomly. The plot features of this species include canopy cover, density, height, largest diameter, shortest diameter, leaf length, leaf width, height, trunk diameter at breast height were measured and regeneration. Soil samples taken at each site and the number of physical and chemical properties were studied. In order to investigate the most effective factors in the establishment of this species in the habitat of the principal component analysis PCA was used with Minitab V.14 software. The results showed that the growth characteristics and environment of sand, seedlings, average maximum and minimum temperature, moisture content, PH and among the largest influence on the separation of re-forested habitat types.','The Zagros habitat occupies a large part of the Zagros mountain range that extends from northwestern Iran (i.e, from Piranshahr in West Azarbaijan Province) to a location near Firozabad in Fars Province covering an area 1300 kilometers long with an average width of 200 kilometers. The Zagros forests, classified as semi-arid forests, have an area of five million hectares, constitute 40% of the forests in Iran, and exert the greatest influence on water provision, soil preservation, weather modification, and economic and social equilibrium in the whole country. At present, they are considered destroyed forests, with fuel wood gathering and grazing the main reasons for their destruction (Sagheb Talebi et al., 2004). The region of Divandarreh, which is situated in the Zagros Mountains, is considered Mediterranean in DeMartin\'s classification system and, due to its climate diversity, topographical position, etc., enjoys upland pastures and sparse forests that constitute its rich plant cover.','Omid Shamohamadi, Younes Asri, Gholamreza Bakhshi Khaniki and Mina Rabie (2015). Investigation on Habitat demands of Malus orientalis Ugl. in Zagros forests (case study: Divandareh, Kurdestan) .Biological Forum â€“ An International Journal 7(1): 446-450 '),(4175,'117','Effects of Humic Acid and Folic Acid on Sunflower under \r\nDrought Stress\r\n','Zohreh Poudineh, Zahra Ghaffari Moghadam and Somayyeh Mirshekari','77 ZOHREH POUDINEH.pdf','',1,'To evaluate the effect of humic acid and folic acid on yield, yield components, and some qualitative characteristics of sunflower under drought stress, an experiment was conducted as split plots in a completely randomized block design with three replications at the Institute of Agriculture, University of Zabol. The experimental treatments included three levels of drought stress: S1 = optimum irrigation, 50% of farm field capacity (control), S2 = 70% of farm field capacity, and S3 = 50% of farm field capacity as the main factor. The side factor included inoculums of sunflower seeds with supplements at three levels: M1 = without inoculation (control), M2 = inoculated with humic acid and M3 = inoculated with folic acid. The results showed that drought could have a very significant impact on 1000- grain weight, number of seeds per head, grain and its biological yield, and harvest index and could increase the rate of solvent carbohydrates and proline content per leaf significantly. This i','Food complements, proline, oil content, field capacity, yield','To evaluate the effect of humic acid and folic acid on yield, yield components, and some qualitative characteristics of sunflower under drought stress, an experiment was conducted as split plots in a completely randomized block design with three replications at the Institute of Agriculture, University of Zabol. The experimental treatments included three levels of drought stress: S1 = optimum irrigation, 50% of farm field capacity (control), S2 = 70% of farm field capacity, and S3 = 50% of farm field capacity as the main factor. The side factor included inoculums of sunflower seeds with supplements at three levels: M1 = without inoculation (control), M2 = inoculated with humic acid and M3 = inoculated with folic acid. The results showed that drought could have a very significant impact on 1000- grain weight, number of seeds per head, grain and its biological yield, and harvest index and could increase the rate of solvent carbohydrates and proline content per leaf significantly. This i','Planting oil seeds has always been a very important part of agriculture in many countries of the world. With recognition of proteins present in these products, an increasing demand for these crops and products rose in the global markets (Saadat Lajevardi, 1981). After cereals, oil seeds are considered as the second most important source of energy required for human societies. These oil pellets constitute a vital part of Tropical agriculture because they are readily available and are highly nutritious food for humans and animals. In their seeds\' protoplasts, they own tiny particles of fat (Poor Saleh, 1995). Oil seeds in Iran are very important for the following reasons: 1) higher levels of living and increasing purchasing power, 2) increasing population, 3) better health value in comparison with animal fat, and 4) provision of health care in its processing industry (Saadat Lajevardi, 1981).\r\nAccording to FAO statistics, the share of sunflower in providing world oil demand is 7.3% (FAO','Zohreh Poudineh, Zahra Ghaffari Moghadam and Somayyeh Mirshekari (2015). Effects of Humic Acid and Folic Acid on Sunflower under \r\nDrought Stress . Biological Forum â€“ An International Journal 7(1): 451-454 .\r\n'),(4176,'117','Responses of Various Corn Cultivars under Supplementary\r\nIrrigation Management\r\n','Marjan Zohrabi, Ebrahim Amiri and Parisa Shahinrokhsar','78 EBRAHIM AMIRI.pdf','',1,'This project was executed in a split-plot experiment using the randomized complete block design with four replications in the research field at the Gilan Agriculture and Natural Resources Research Center to evaluate the effects of various irrigation regimes on three single cross hybrids in corn. The major factor was the irrigation treatment (one irrigation before flowering, one irrigation at flowering and one at seed filling stages, no irrigation or rainfed farming), and the minor factor the cultivars ( the single cross hybrids 704, 260, and 400). The three irrigation regimes and the three cultivars had significantly different effects on seed yield at the 5% and 1% probability levels, respectively. Comparing the means of irrigation regimes showed the maximum yield (6580 kg/ha) belonged to the treatment of irrigation at flowering and at seed filling stages and the minimum (4888 kg/ha) to the treatment of irrigation before flowering. Irrigation at flowering and seed filling stages increa','Corn, seed yield, two irrigations, no irrigation, hybrid','Results of mutual effects indicate that hybrids responded differently to various conditions probably because they have different rooting systems. In other words, it can be said that these hybrids respond differently to changes in methods of crop improvement or to changes in methods of improving water use. Therefore, it is recommended greater care be exercised in introducing hybrids for coping with water stress. \r\nBased on results of this research, we can say that water stress reduced components of yield, irrigation at flowering and seed filling stages increased yield and yield components, and that the SC704 hybrid was suitable for areas facing stress resulting from water shortage because its yield components were larger in rainfed farming conditions compared to the other two hybrids. \r\n','INTRODUCTION\r\nCorn is a main cereal in humid and sub-humid tropical regions, but it can also be grown in cold areas due to its high adaptability (Ulger et al., 1997). Corn has deep roots and also good ability to absorb nutrients and, therefore, does not require very fertile soils. It can be grown in various soils but deep soils with average texture, good drainage, and high water retention capability are best for its cultivation. Droughts mainly occur during the flowering stage of corn, and drought stress is one of the main factors reducing corn production in regions with limited water resources. Drought is also one the major dangers facing successful corn production in Iran and other less developed countries. Droughts happen when a combination of physical and environmental factors create drought stress for plants (Sarmadnia and Koochaki, 2002). Azari Nasrabadi (1999) stated that, under irrigation conditions, phenological characteristics such as those of leaves, stem diameter, plant hei','Marjan Zohrabi, Ebrahim Amiri and Parisa Shahinrokhsar (2015). Responses of Various Corn Cultivars under Supplementary Irrigation Management . Biological Forum â€“ An International Journal 7(1): 455-458\r\n'),(4177,'117','Responses of Various Corn Cultivars under Supplementary\r\nIrrigation Management\r\n','Marjan Zohrabi, Ebrahim Amiri and Parisa Shahinrokhsar','78 EBRAHIM AMIRI.pdf','',1,'This project was executed in a split-plot experiment using the randomized complete block design with four replications in the research field at the Gilan Agriculture and Natural Resources Research Center to evaluate the effects of various irrigation regimes on three single cross hybrids in corn. The major factor was the irrigation treatment (one irrigation before flowering, one irrigation at flowering and one at seed filling stages, no irrigation or rainfed farming), and the minor factor the cultivars ( the single cross hybrids 704, 260, and 400). The three irrigation regimes and the three cultivars had significantly different effects on seed yield at the 5% and 1% probability levels, respectively. Comparing the means of irrigation regimes showed the maximum yield (6580 kg/ha) belonged to the treatment of irrigation at flowering and at seed filling stages and the minimum (4888 kg/ha) to the treatment of irrigation before flowering. Irrigation at flowering and seed filling stages increa','Corn, seed yield, two irrigations, no irrigation, hybrid','Results of mutual effects indicate that hybrids responded differently to various conditions probably because they have different rooting systems. In other words, it can be said that these hybrids respond differently to changes in methods of crop improvement or to changes in methods of improving water use. Therefore, it is recommended greater care be exercised in introducing hybrids for coping with water stress. \r\nBased on results of this research, we can say that water stress reduced components of yield, irrigation at flowering and seed filling stages increased yield and yield components, and that the SC704 hybrid was suitable for areas facing stress resulting from water shortage because its yield components were larger in rainfed farming conditions compared to the other two hybrids\r\n','Corn is a main cereal in humid and sub-humid tropical regions, but it can also be grown in cold areas due to its high adaptability (Ulger et al., 1997). Corn has deep roots and also good ability to absorb nutrients and, therefore, does not require very fertile soils. It can be grown in various soils but deep soils with average texture, good drainage, and high water retention capability are best for its cultivation. Droughts mainly occur during the flowering stage of corn, and drought stress is one of the main factors reducing corn production in regions with limited water resources. Drought is also one the major dangers facing successful corn production in Iran and other less developed countries. Droughts happen when a combination of physical and environmental factors create drought stress for plants (Sarmadnia and Koochaki, 2002). Azari Nasrabadi (1999) stated that, under irrigation conditions, phenological characteristics such as those of leaves, stem diameter, plant height, and numbe','Marjan Zohrabi, Ebrahim Amiri and Parisa Shahinrokhsar (2015). Responses of Various Corn Cultivars under Supplementary Irrigation Management . Biological Forum â€“ An International Journal 7(1): 455-458 .\r\n'),(4178,'107','Recent Trends in Area, Production and Productivity of Rapeseed and Mustard and Chickpea in Haryana and India','Sandeep Kumar, V.P. Luhach and Deepak Kumar','211 Recent Trends in Area, Production and Productivity of Rapeseed and Mustard and Chickpea in Haryana and India Deepak Kumar.pdf','',1,'Rapeseed and mustard and chickpea are essential oilseed and pulse crops in India providing a reliable source of human nourishment and serving as a key component of climate-resilient agricultural systems. The spread of rapeseed-mustard and chickpea cultivation to fresh areas under alternative cropping systems, as well as an integrated approach to plant-water, nutrient, and pest management, will play a major role in further boosting and stabilizing the productivity and production of these crops. The present study was carried out with the objectives to analyze the trend in area, production and productivity of rapeseed & mustard and chickpea. The outcomes of study revealed an increasing trend in the area, production and productivity of rapeseed & mustard at the national level with CAGR values of 0.14, 2.17 and 1.92 per cent, respectively. Whereas, in Haryana, the trend in area indicated increasing trend 0.05 per cent, while production and productivity illustrated increasing trend with CAG','Compound Annual Growth Rate (CAGR), Chickpea, Growth rate, Productivity, Rapeseed and mustard, Recent trends','This study was designed to find out the growth and trends of area, production and productivity of rapeseed & mustard and chickpea in Haryana as well as India from the secondary data for a period from 1995-96 to 2019-20. This shows that the area, production and productivity growth trends of rapeseed and mustard in Haryana was positive. In case of chickpea, the area and production growth trends of chickpea in Haryana were negative while in productivity growth trend was positive. But in case of India, the area, production and productivity trends of rapeseed & mustard and chickpea are positive.','INTRODUCTION\r\nRapeseed & mustard is the key source of income mainly for the marginal and small farmers in rain-fed areas. Thus this crop is cultivated mainly in the rain-fed and resource vulnerable regions of the country, their effect to livelihood safety of the small and marginal farmers in these regions are also very important (Shekhawat et al., 2012). Despite the high quality of pulses and oilseeds and their adaptability to a wide range of agro-climatic conditions, India\'s area, production, and yield have been fluctuating due to biotic and abiotic stresses, including the country\'s domestic price support programme (Kumar et al., 2016; Kumar et al., 2018). Indian mustard is mainly cultivated in the states of Rajasthan, Uttar Pradesh, Haryana, Madhya Pradesh, and Gujarat which contribute 81.50 per cent area and 87.50 per cent production (Meena and Hosmaani, 2012; Agarwal, 1988). Chickpea is an important pulse crop grown and consumed all over the world, mainly in the Afro Asian Countrie','Sandeep Kumar, V.P. Luhach and Deepak Kumar (2021). Recent Trends in Area, Production and Productivity of Rapeseed and Mustard and Chickpea in Haryana and India. Biological Forum â€“ An International Journal, 13(4): 1292-1302'),(4179,'117','Effects of Humic Acid and Folic Acid on Sunflower under \r\nDrought Stress\r\n','Zohreh Poudineh, Zahra Ghaffari Moghadam and Somayyeh Mirshekari','77 ZOHREH POUDINEH.pdf','',1,'To evaluate the effect of humic acid and folic acid on yield, yield components, and some qualitative characteristics of sunflower under drought stress, an experiment was conducted as split plots in a completely randomized block design with three replications at the Institute of Agriculture, University of Zabol. The experimental treatments included three levels of drought stress: S1 = optimum irrigation, 50% of farm field capacity (control), S2 = 70% of farm field capacity, and S3 = 50% of farm field capacity as the main factor. The side factor included inoculums of sunflower seeds with supplements at three levels: M1 = without inoculation (control), M2 = inoculated with humic acid and M3 = inoculated with folic acid. The results showed that drought could have a very significant impact on 1000- grain weight, number of seeds per head, grain and its biological yield, and harvest index and could increase the rate of solvent carbohydrates and proline content per leaf significantly. This i','Food complements, proline, oil content, field capacity, yield','To evaluate the effect of humic acid and folic acid on yield, yield components, and some qualitative characteristics of sunflower under drought stress, an experiment was conducted as split plots in a completely randomized block design with three replications at the Institute of Agriculture, University of Zabol. The experimental treatments included three levels of drought stress: S1 = optimum irrigation, 50% of farm field capacity (control), S2 = 70% of farm field capacity, and S3 = 50% of farm field capacity as the main factor. The side factor included inoculums of sunflower seeds with supplements at three levels: M1 = without inoculation (control), M2 = inoculated with humic acid and M3 = inoculated with folic acid. The results showed that drought could have a very significant impact on 1000- grain weight, number of seeds per head, grain and its biological yield, and harvest index and could increase the rate of solvent carbohydrates and proline content per leaf significantly. This i','Planting oil seeds has always been a very important part of agriculture in many countries of the world. With recognition of proteins present in these products, an increasing demand for these crops and products rose in the global markets (Saadat Lajevardi, 1981). After cereals, oil seeds are considered as the second most important source of energy required for human societies. These oil pellets constitute a vital part of Tropical agriculture because they are readily available and are highly nutritious food for humans and animals. In their seeds\' protoplasts, they own tiny particles of fat (Poor Saleh, 1995). Oil seeds in Iran are very important for the following reasons: 1) higher levels of living and increasing purchasing power, 2) increasing population, 3) better health value in comparison with animal fat, and 4) provision of health care in its processing industry (Saadat Lajevardi, 1981).\r\nAccording to FAO statistics, the share of sunflower in providing world oil demand is 7.3% (FAO','Zohreh Poudineh, Zahra Ghaffari Moghadam and Somayyeh Mirshekari (2015). Effects of Humic Acid and Folic Acid on Sunflower under Drought Stress. Biological Forum â€“ An International Journal 7(1): 451-454. \r\n'),(4180,'117','Responses of Various Corn Cultivars under Supplementary\r\nIrrigation Management\r\n','Marjan Zohrabi, Ebrahim Amiri and Parisa Shahinrokhsar','78 EBRAHIM AMIRI.pdf','',1,'This project was executed in a split-plot experiment using the randomized complete block design with four replications in the research field at the Gilan Agriculture and Natural Resources Research Center to evaluate the effects of various irrigation regimes on three single cross hybrids in corn. The major factor was the irrigation treatment (one irrigation before flowering, one irrigation at flowering and one at seed filling stages, no irrigation or rainfed farming), and the minor factor the cultivars ( the single cross hybrids 704, 260, and 400). The three irrigation regimes and the three cultivars had significantly different effects on seed yield at the 5% and 1% probability levels, respectively. Comparing the means of irrigation regimes showed the maximum yield (6580 kg/ha) belonged to the treatment of irrigation at flowering and at seed filling stages and the minimum (4888 kg/ha) to the treatment of irrigation before flowering. Irrigation at flowering and seed filling stages increa','Corn, seed yield, two irrigations, no irrigation, hybrid','Results of mutual effects indicate that hybrids responded differently to various conditions probably because they have different rooting systems. In other words, it can be said that these hybrids respond differently to changes in methods of crop improvement or to changes in methods of improving water use. Therefore, it is recommended greater care be exercised in introducing hybrids for coping with water stress. \r\nBased on results of this research, we can say that water stress reduced components of yield, irrigation at flowering and seed filling stages increased yield and yield components, and that the SC704 hybrid was suitable for areas facing stress resulting from water shortage because its yield components were larger in rainfed farming conditions compared to the other two hybrids. \r\n','INTRODUCTION\r\nCorn is a main cereal in humid and sub-humid tropical regions, but it can also be grown in cold areas due to its high adaptability (Ulger et al., 1997). Corn has deep roots and also good ability to absorb nutrients and, therefore, does not require very fertile soils. It can be grown in various soils but deep soils with average texture, good drainage, and high water retention capability are best for its cultivation. Droughts mainly occur during the flowering stage of corn, and drought stress is one of the main factors reducing corn production in regions with limited water resources. Drought is also one the major dangers facing successful corn production in Iran and other less developed countries. Droughts happen when a combination of physical and environmental factors create drought stress for plants (Sarmadnia and Koochaki, 2002). Azari Nasrabadi (1999) stated that, under irrigation conditions, phenological characteristics such as those of leaves, stem diameter, plant hei','Marjan Zohrabi, Ebrahim Amiri and Parisa Shahinrokhsar (2015).Responses of Various Corn Cultivars under Supplementary Irrigation Management . Biological Forum â€“ An International Journal 7(1): 455-458 . \r\n'),(4181,'117','Size Frequency Distribution Patterns of the four Mugilid Species of the Family Mugilidae (Order Mugiliformes) Collected from the Karachi Fish Harbour, Pakistan','Zubia Masood, Rehana Yasmeen, Mussaratul-Ain, Hameed-Ur-Rehman, Asim Ullah, Naveed-Ullah, Sundus Navid, Shama Zaman, Sidra-Tul-Muntaha and Laila Manzoor','79 ZUBIA MAOOD-3.pdf','',1,'As the analysis of size frequency distribution pattern will also provide useful data on the assessment of size structure of a single species or multiple species, therefore, present study was based on the estimation of size frequency data for the male, female and combined sexes of the four selected mugilid species during the period from April 2011 to December 2012. Total catch contain 1006 specimens of these mugilid species includes 307 individuals of Liza melinoptera, 244 of Liza macrolepis, 162 of Mugil cephalus and 293 of Valamugil speigleri, respectively. The result of this study revealed that females of both Liza sp. e.g., L. melinoptera and L. macrolepis were dominated in large size groups, however, both male and female individuals of M. cephalus were abundant in small size groups but least occurred in the large size groups, while males of L. melinoptera usually predominated in the smaller groups. Size frequency data of V. speigleri showed that both large and small size groups wer','size frequency distribution, Mullets or grey mullets, Karachi coast ','From result of the present study, it had been concluded that the study of the size frequency distribution will provides useful information about the habitat condition, health and water quality of Pakistan coast, which was found to be suitable for the grey mullets. Size frequency data of fish species revealed many ecological and life history traits and alsoconsider as useful tool to determine the ages of fish species (Bagenal and Tesch, 1978), together with catch per unit efforts (CPUE) that provides a details about the different disturbance rÃ©gime of the coastal waters, spawning grounds and spawning seasons of fish, the general heath, density, condition and status of fish species. \r\nUnderstanding the size structure of any fish populations is quiet necessary because size is the useful in understanding the growth, reproduction, and recruitment with changes in length of fish as early indicator of disturbance. At the assembly level, Size frequency distributions data will provide clear pic','Fishes of the family â€œMugilidaeâ€ are commonly known as â€œgrey mulletsâ€ or mullets. This family is consists of 18 genera and 81 species (Nelson, 2006; Froese and Pauly, 2011). Worldwide distributed family occurred in marine and brackish waters or estuaries. Commonly found in coastal shallow water at 20m depth. Maximum length is about 100 cm. Most mullet species spawn in sea,and then fry enter into the fresh water where they grow into adult stage (Chang et al., 2004). The detail information regarding to the size frequency distribution pattern of these selected mullet species on Pakistan coast was still lacking. However, Luther (1964) and Wijeyaratne and Costa (1987) had studied size frequency distribution of Mugil cephalus and Liza macrolepis in Palk bay (Mandapam) and Negombo lagoon. Karnaet al. (2011) observed the size frequency data of Valamugil speigleri in Chilika Lagoon. While the size frequency data of Mugil cephaluswas studied by several workers such as Koutrakis et al. (','Zubia Masood, Rehana Yasmeen, Mussaratul-Ain, Hameed-Ur-Rehman, Asim Ullah, Naveed-Ullah, Sundus Navid, Shama Zaman, Sidra-Tul-Muntaha and Laila Manzoor (2015). Size Frequency Distribution Patterns of the four Mugilid Species of the Family Mugilidae (Orde'),(4182,'117','Effect of Irrigation and Nitrogen levels on Yield and some traits of Barley','Mohammad Reza Kouzegaran, Seyyed Gholamreza Moosavi and Mohammad Javad Seghatoleslami','80 SEYYED GHOLAMREZA MOOSAVI.pdf','',1,'To evaluate grain yield, morphological traits and grain moisture of barley cv. Karoun in Kavir (Hordeum vulgaris L.), an experiment was conducted in experimental farm of Islamic Azad University of Birjand, Iran in 2014 as a split-plot experiment based on a Randomized Complete Block Design with three replications. The main plots were devoted to irrigation at four levels of full irrigation and irrigation withdrawal at flowering, at grain-setting and at both flowering and grain-setting. The sub-plots were devoted to nitrogen fertilization levels at four levels of 0, 75, 150 and 225 kg ha-1. Analysis of variance showed that the effect of irrigation and N fertilization levels was significant on yield, but plant height and spike length were only affected by N level. Means comparison revealed that irrigation withdrawal at flowering, at grain-setting and at both flowering and grain-setting resulted in the loss of barley grain yield as compared to full irrigation by 40.3, 31.19 and 52.87%, r','barley, irrigation withdrawal, nitrogen, yield, morphological traits','In total, it was found that water deficit stress at either flowering or grain-setting can significantly decrease grain yield due its inhibitory effect on reproductive growth and photosynthesis capacity. However, its occurrence at grain filling had less adverse effect than at flowering. The deficiency of nitrogen as one of the most necessary nutrients for plant can influence most vegetative and reproductive traits. Lower nitrogen fertilization rate significantly reduced such traits as grain yield, plant height and spike length of barley. According to the results, it is recommended to fertilize barley fields with 150 kg N ha-1 and to treat them with full irrigation in regions with climates similar to Birjand','Barley (Hordeum vulgar L.) is an important grain in central and western Asia and northern Africa where barley is usually grown in rain-fed system. Therefore, it suffers from water deficiency in growing season, especially in late growing season which is concurrent with drought period (Sarkar et al., 2004). Barley due to its drought resistance is one of the most widely grown crops in arid and semiarid regions of the world (Ghazi et al., 2007; Kinaci and Kinaci, 2005). It is the second most important grain in Iran after wheat (Irannejad, 2005).\r\nWater deficiency is a limiting factor of plants growth and development in arid and semi-arid regions. Precise study and understanding of water and plant relations and the factors influencing them can greatly help the sound use of nature, its water resources and precipitation for meeting plantsâ€™ water requirement and food production (Maghsoudi Mood, 2008). If the water requirement of a plant is not fully met in a part of and whole growing per','Mohammad Reza Kouzegaran, Seyyed Gholamreza Moosavi and Mohammad Javad Seghatoleslami (2015).Effect of Irrigation and Nitrogen levels on Yield and some traits of Barley . Biological Forum â€“ An International Journal 7(1): 470-476 .'),(4183,'117','PRs proteins and their Mechanism in Plants','Farshid Golshani, Barat Ali Fakheri, Elham Behshad and Roghayeh Mohammadpour Vashvaei','81 FARSHID GOLSHANI.pdf','',1,'Fungi are far more complex organisms than viruses or bacteria and can developed numerous diseases in plants that cause loss of big portion of the crop every year. Plants have developed various mechanisms to defend themselves against these fungi which include the production of low molecular weight secondary metabolites, proteins and peptides having antifungal activity. Pathogenesis-related proteins (PRs) (initially named \'b\' proteins) have focused an increasing research interest in view of their possible involvement in plant resistance to pathogens. This assumption flowed from initial findings that these proteins are commonly induced in resistant plants, expressing a hypersensitive necrotic response (HR) to pathogens of viral, fungal and bacterial origin. PRs have been defined as \'proteins encoded by the host plant but induced only in pathological or related situations\', the latter implying situations of non-pathogenic origin. In this review, brief information like biochemistry, source,','HR, Pathogenesis-related Proteins, Plant defense, Systemic acquired resistance','PR proteins play important role in disease resistance, seed germination and also help the plant to adapt to the environmental stress. The increasing knowledge about the PR proteins gives better idea regarding the development and defense system of plants. Primary aspects of the gene regulation of the PR proteins are understood but the study of exact mechanism of gene regulation and receptor cascade will open new ways for the plant genetic engineering technology for crop improvement','The PR-proteins were defined as \'proteins coded by the host plant but induced only in pathological or related situations\' (Antoniw et al., 1980). However, related proteins were identified that accumulate in normal (uninfected) plants in certain tissues or developmental stages. These proteins are referred to as \'PR-like\' proteins (Van Loon, 1999). In some situations, a gene for a PR-like protein expressed in a developmentally controlled manner may be inducible in some other plant tissue in response to stresses. Thus, the distinction between a PR-protein and a PR-like protein may be less clear-cut in some situations. The PR-proteins are identified easily in cell extracts of infected plants (Van Loon and Van Kammen, 1968, Gianinazzi and Vallee, 1969). In fact, they are quite prominent in acid extracts of infected plants. Perhaps because of the need to function in a hostile environment, most PR-proteins show pH- and thermal stabilities and are quite resistant to proteolysis. In addition, t','Farshid Golshani, Barat Ali Fakheri, Elham Behshad and Roghayeh Mohammadpour Vashvaei (2015). PRs proteins and their Mechanism in Plants .Biological Forum â€“ An International Journal 7(1): 477-495 .'),(4184,'117','Influence of Intercropping Corn and Aloe vera on some characteristics of Aloe vera','Rahele Noushavani, Hamid Reza Ganjali and Mehdi Dahmardeh','82 HAMID REZA GANJALI.pdf','',1,'Sustainable agriculture is successful management of resources to satisfy changing human needs while conserving natural resources. Intercropping is an important practice to increase the total yield per unit area. This system is used in many parts of the world, especially in regions where the small farmer intensively utilizes a limited land area and is recommended as a method to increase total agriculture production. In tropics, cereal/legume intercropping is commonly practiced because of yield advantages, greater yield stability and lower risks of crop failure, which are often associated with monoculture. Maize is a very common, popular and multi uses cereal crop at present situation. Every year a huge amount of maize grain is required as feed and fodder for poultry and livestock sector and most of them are imported. The field experiment was laid out in randomized complete block design with facrorial design with three replications. Treatments consisted of nitrogen fertilizer ( 200, 300,','Nitrogen fertilizer, leaf length, leaf width','Sustainable agriculture is successful management of resources to satisfy changing human needs while conserving natural resources. Intercropping is an important practice to increase the total yield per unit area. This system is used in many parts of the world, especially in regions where the small farmer intensively utilizes a limited land area and is recommended as a method to increase total agriculture production. In tropics, cereal/legume intercropping is commonly practiced because of yield advantages, greater yield stability and lower risks of crop failure, which are often associated with monoculture. Maize is a very common, popular and multi uses cereal crop at present situation. Every year a huge amount of maize grain is required as feed and fodder for poultry and livestock sector and most of them are imported. The field experiment was laid out in randomized complete block design with facrorial design with three replications. Treatments consisted of nitrogen fertilizer ( 200, 300,','Sustainable agriculture is successful management of resources to satisfy changing human needs while conserving natural resources. However, area of cultivable land per unit household is dwindling from time to time due to population pressure. This leads to intensive crop production per unit area of land. Intercropping is one of the intensive cropping systems which ensure sustainable utilization of limited land resources (Tesfa et al., 2001). Maximizing agricultural resource use through intensification of agricultural systems is an important way to achieve greater production and income per unit area per year. Intercropping is an important practice to increase the total yield per unit area. This system is used in many parts of the world, especially in regions where the small farmer intensively utilizes a limited land area (Francis, 1986) and is recommended as a method to increase total agriculture production in Egypt (Metwally, 1999). The extent and importance of intercropping increases as','Rahele Noushavani, Hamid Reza Ganjali and Mehdi Dahmardeh (2015). Influence of Intercropping Corn and Aloe vera on some characteristics of Aloe vera . Biological Forum â€“ An International Journal 7(1): 496-500.'),(4185,'117','Effects of Climate Change on Autumnal Oilseed Cultivation in South Khorasan Province using the Model LARS-WG','Seyed Mohammad Mahdi Torabi and Amir Hossein Halabian','83 SEYED MOHAMMAD MAHDI TORABI -1.pdf','',1,'Climatic and environmental factors and their effects on crop yield one of the most effective factors of production. In this study, in order to evaluate the agricultural climate of spring canola cultivation in selected stations in South Khorasan province, the daily temperature data over a period of 10 years were used. The deviation from the optimum conditions, the degree of active days index and thermal gradient methods are applied to perform the agro-climatic calculations and analysis. The results show that late October the optimum time for planting Autumn canola regions (Ghaen and Ferdos). Thermal gradient analysis and deviation from optimal conditions at different altitudes in the study area show that for every 100 meters increase of altitude, the deviation from the optimal conditions of planting is delayed by one month. This point is important in terms of cultivating time and commercial crops production. According to the obtained agricultural calendar, the most appropriate time for ','climate, Autumn canola, phenology, LARS-WG , South Khorasan','Climatic conditions play a major role in all aspects of life especially plant life. The appearance of genera, varieties and other plant ecotypes can be affected by environmental factors particularly climatic ones. Although all mankind focused their attention on the awareness of the relationship between the environment and plant life from the beginning of agricultural evolution, but this subject has currently been taken into proper consideration by the appearance of new indexes relating to meteorology entitled \'Agro-climatology\' or \'Crop-ecology\'. Among different factors influencing agricultural production, weather conditions is the most variables in natural environment that human is not able to control them, except in small scale with high cost. Lack of attention to capabilities of climate and traditional cultivation of agricultural Products has been resulted to low changing yield and even the destruction of crops in some years. Agro climatology assesses interaction relationship betwee','Due to the trend of population increase all over the world, providing the basic food requirements for humans is an inevitable issue (Morrison and Stewart, 2002). Among the various factors affecting agricultural production, the weather condition is considered as the most important variable (Bagli et al, 2003) In the other word, Weather condition, is one of the determining factors of crop type which could be cultivated and developed in an area. Understanding the climate and required parameters of crops, are of the most important factors in agricultural production. The amount of sunlight, heat and rainfall and their incidence type are major factors in this determination. Lack of attention to climatic potentials of any region and traditional cultivation of crops, leads to low and fluctuating yields of crops and even full destroy of crops in some years. Several studies have been conducted on effects of climate on canola growth (Jones et al, 2001). Malcolm and Stewart (2002) conducted a ','Seyed Mohammad Mahdi Torabi and Amir Hossein Halabian (2015). Effects of Climate Change on Autumnal Oilseed Cultivation in South Khorasan Province using the Model LARS-WG .Biological Forum â€“ An International Journal 7(1): 501-505 .'),(4186,'117','Study on Inhibitory Effects of Ailanthus altissima on the Growth of\r\nWeeds and Agricultural Plants\r\n','Fatemeh Bagheri and S-Zahra-Hosseini Cici','84 FATEMEH BAGHERI.pdf','',1,'Ailanthus altissima is an invasive tree. The extracts of different limbs of this tree were evaluated under laboratory and greenhouse conditions in order to determine its herbicidal effects. This study was carried out to investigate whether or not there exist Allelopathic compounds in different tissues of Ailantus altissima located at the north of Fars Province. The limbs of the tree were sampled in spring and autumn. In the first test, the effect of toxicity level on seed germination and Lepidium sativum weed radicle growth was studied. Germination was not affected by A. altissima extract but radicle length significantly reduced. In the second test, the effect of activity and selectivity of A. altissima extracts on different agricultural plants and weeds were studied. The extracts were sprayed at ratios 0, 10, 20, 30 and 40 gram/liter on young growing plants in the greenhouse. Bark extract was found to be very toxic. Amaranthus retroflexeus and Carthamus tinctorius were significantly s','Allelopathic, biological herbicides, Amaranthus retroflexus, invasive tree','The use of toxic substances (allelochemicals) present in plants is one of the ways fororganic management of weeds and other pests and diseases. Ailanthus Altissima can have an inhibitory effect on sensitive plants owing toallelochemicals such as Ailanthone and Methylene Chloride present in its limbs, which is a sustainable and eco-friendly management method (Hang et al., 2013). The findings revealed that Ailanthus extract has allelopathic effects and is able to affect certain weeds after growth. According to this research, it seems that different plant species show different sensitivities to extract of different limbs of Ailanthus tree with various densities. This indicates the selectivity of herbicidal potential of Ailanthus extract, which is very important in function. Ailanthus altissima is an invasive, non-native plant in Iran and very few studies have been made so far on the use of its phytotoxicity. Greenhouse and laboratorial studies revealed that Ailanthus extract is toxic to o','Ailanthus Altissima, also known as Chinese Sumac and Tree of Heaven, is a deciduous tree from theSimaroubaceae family. Though native to China and South Korea, it is found in all continents, in tropical and temperate climates. This tree is a fast-growing species with roots quickly scattering. Under appropriate conditions, it grows rapidly in a bush-like manner. It is resistant to drought, food poverty and hard soil. Ailanthus tree seeds were brought from China to France and England in 1740s and 1750s. At first, it was used as an ornamental tree in streets, as a material for making pulp (Illick and Brouse, 1926) and as a food resource for silkworm larva (Anderson E, 1961). Nowadays, this tree has been classified as an unwanted and invasive weed tree in most of regions of the world. Its population in its native region, China, is under control by biological agents and pathogenic fungus (Ding et al, 2006). In some other region, however, it has become an invasive plant due to lack of ecologi','Fatemeh Bagheri and S-Zahra-Hosseini Cici (2015). Study on Inhibitory Effects of Ailanthus altissima on the Growth of Weeds and Agricultural Plants . Biological Forum â€“ An International Journal 7(1): 506-511 .\r\n'),(4187,'117','Effects of Changes in Temperature and Rainfall on Potato Cultivation in South Khorasan Province using the Model LARS','Seyed Mohammad Mahdi Torabi and Amir Hossein Halabian','85 SEYED MOHAMMAD MAHDI TORABI.pdf','',1,'Needs of human life from the beginning has been a very important factor. Currently threatened by population growth, food security and good human beings with new science and technology plan to maintain their food security and the better it will work. In this investigation, meteorological data have been received from synoptic stations based on daily, monthly, and annually trend from Iran Meteorological Organization (IMO) at South Khorasan Province and then homogeneity of data has been explored by (Wald- Wolfowitz) Run Test. Methodology of the research is of statistical descriptive type. Data analysis was carried out by means of Growing Degree Day (GDD) technique and method of Deviation from Optimum Percentage (DOP) plus phenology index within environment of statistical software (EXCEL and SPSS). Under agro climatic conditions, the results of this survey The early March to the late April are the best calendar for cultivation of potato month in all the aforesaid stations. Time of harvestin','Agro climate, potato, DOP, Phenology, LARS-WG, South Khorasan','The identification of the relationships between climatic variables and crops produced by farming are economically and socially crucial to each region. In most regions, main agricultural crops are traditionally produced by relying on experience without any proper consideration so that bio-climatic needs neglected by farmers; thus, their performance may decrease and ultimately result in the loss of climatic facilities. Therefore, accurate identification of climatic needs of plants and cultivation of such crops in an appropriate region can play a crucial role in utilizing optimal bio-climatic conditions. If we can identify appropriate regions for cultivating agricultural crops considering required temperatures and moisture content, we\'ll achieve higher levels of utilization of the land and promote economic growth of our farmers as well as national income levels. Under agro climatic conditions, the results of this survey The early March to the late April are the best calendar for cultivati','Agro climate, potato, DOP, Phenology, LARS-WG, South Khorasan\r\nThe potential yield is the maximum yield of a given species or cultivar possible achievable under the existing conditions of solar radiation flux density, with all the other environmental factors considered to be optimal. Therefore, the potential yield is determined by the biological properties of the cultivar and radiation resources available for utilization. This yield category practically expresses the solar radiation resources for cultivating a given genotype in yield units, whereas the commercial yield is the yield attainable under existing farm conditions that takes into account all the factors limiting the production process and the crop yield. Several researches have been conducted aiming at quantifying the effects of the environment on growth, development and yield of many agronomic crops. Among the main environmental factors that strongly govern all physiological processes of the plants one should bear in mind glo','Seyed Mohammad Mahdi Torabi and Amir Hossein Halabian (2015). Effects of Changes in Temperature and Rainfall on Potato Cultivation in South Khorasan Province using the Model LARS . Biological Forum â€“ An International Journal 7(1): 512-517 . '),(4188,'117','Effects of Salinity and Drought on Morphological and Chemical traits of Aloe vera plant','Jahangir Shams, Hassanali Naghdi Badi, Hossein Zeynali, Farahnaz Khalighi-Sigaroodii and Payam Najafi','86 JAHANGIR SHAMS.pdf','',1,'Drought and salt stress which limit the plants growth are becoming a serious problem in the world. Aloe vera is one of the most valuable medicine plants in world. It requires limited irrigation depending on the capacity of the soil to retain humidity. Since Aloe is a CAM species it could naturally be adapted to conditions of dryness and high temperatures. In this research the conjugation effect of salinity treatments and irrigation levels on Aloe plant was studied. In this experiment used various levels of salinity including the control, 4, 8, and 12 (ds/m), also the irrigation treatments were FC, 40%, 60%, and 80% depletion of available water during two year studies. Results revealed that the salinity stress and water deficit affected the plant height, number of leaves, leaf length, leaf thickness, aerial fresh yield, leaf fresh weight and gel weight. Salinity affected most of growing traits in comparison to control treatment; however increasing salt concentrations did not lead to a ','Aloe vera, Drought, Salinity, Yield, Gel weight, Solution carbohydrate, Proline ','Due to the importance of the Aloe vera in the agriculture, medicine and industry and reduction of water resources, Aloe vera can be used in our schedule. Intensive drought stress (80%) reduced the growth and chlorophyll greatly but leads to the increased solution carbohydrate, proline and total soluble solid. Although the lack of plant available water results in the cell plasmolysis and loss of cell turgidity, considering the suitable condition of 60% depletion of available water it is recommended for maintaining the height, number of leaves, leaf thickness and saving water. An increase in drought up to 60 % depletion of available water had a main impact on the decline of leaf weight, aerial fresh yield and leaf gel so 40% depletion of available water suggested for getting appropriate yield and gel amount. Salinity affected many growth factors compared to the no salt treatment. But with increasing salt concentration, there was no difference in vegetative indices between 4 and 8 ds/m a','Aloe vera L. is a tropical or sub-tropical plant with turgid lace-shaped green leaves with jagged edges and sharp points (Grindlay et al. 1986, Ni et al. 2004). This is a perennial liliaceous plant with succulent green leaves joined at the stem in a whorled pattern. It is highly appreciated due to high economic value among all the aloe species, and is used in pharmaceuticals, folk medicine, healthcare, cosmetic products and food products (Reynolds and Dweck, 1999) (Eshun & He, 2008). The plant contains two separate juice materials, yellow latex (exudate), extracted from the vascular bundles at the junction between the rind and the fillets, and a transparent mucilaginous gel, extruded from the inner pulp (Grindlay et al, 1986) (Choi et al, 2001) (Yagi et al, 2003). The major and active constituents of aloe latex are hydroxyanthracene derivatives (15-40%) such as the anthraquinone glycosides aloin A and B (Saccu, Bogoni, & Procida, 2001) (Moghaddasi & Verma, 2011, Grace 2011). This plant','Jahangir Shams, Hassanali Naghdi Badi, Hossein Zeynali, Farahnaz Khalighi-Sigaroodii and Payam Najafi (2015). Effects of Salinity and Drought on Morphological and Chemical traits of Aloe vera plant . Biological Forum â€“ An International Journal 7(1): 51'),(4189,'117','Climate Adaptation needs to Select Suitable Crops using Papadakis','Seyed Mohammad Mahdi Torabi and Amir Hossein Halabian','87 SEYED MOHAMMAD MAHDI TORABI.pdf','',1,'Accurate and simultaneous recognition of climatic factors and ecological phenomena requires use of a technique which is free from ambiguities and generalized concepts and is based on robust fundamentals. With more than 440 subcategories, Papadakis climatic classification which emphasizes on the role of ecological factors has the aforementioned advantage in spite of its particular complexities. In this study, daily temperature data over a period of 10 years Climate adaptation needs to select suitable crops using Papadakis. Calculation and agro-climatic analysis was performed making use of Papadakis method. In this study, data of the synoptic meteorological stations in Kurdistan (daily and monthly and annual reports) were received from National Meteorological Organization. This research is descriptive statistic. Data analysis is performed using Papadakis method. Evaluation of agro-climate of the area, based on Papadakis thresholds, show that northern and central parts of the province hav','Climate, Papadakis, Kurdistan province','Weather and climate are the most important parameters which affect on growth and development of plants and are the non-control and effective factors in agriculture. Threshold tolerance of plants is limited to these climatic parameters and fluctuation of these parameters has significant effect on agricultural products directly and indirectly. Climatic conditions are the most important variables in the production of agricultural products. With awareness of climate and agricultural potential climatic zones can be more efficient resource use. Areas suitable for cultivation of a wide range of the world\'s most important crops will shift as a result of climate change. Overall, suitable areas will increase, but most affected by loss of area will generally be regions that are already struggling from the impacts of irregular and extreme climate events. To minimize the impacts of climate and other environmental changes, it will be crucial to breed new varieties for improved resistance to abiotic ','Among different factors influencing agricultural production, weather conditions is the most variables in natural environment that human is not able to control them, except in small scale with high cost. Lack of attention to capabilities of climate and traditional cultivation of agricultural Products has been resulted to low changing yield and even the destruction of crops in some years. Agro climatology assesses interaction relationship between climatic and hydorologic factors with agriculture. The aim of agro climatology is the use of climatic information in order to improve farming practices and increment the quality of agricultural products (Mohamadi, 2006). One of the basic ways for developing and progressing of country is the optimal use of land in accordance with their ecological conditions (Farjzadeh, 2002). It is necessary to determine the agricultural climatic regions in order to identify the existing problems and issues associated with climate and agriculture. Climatic classi','Seyed Mohammad Mahdi Torabi and Amir Hossein Halabian (2015). Climate Adaptation needs to Select Suitable Crops using Papadakis . Biological Forum â€“ An International Journal 7(1): 528-533 .'),(4190,'117','Investigating the Effect of Azotobacter and Bio-phosphate fertilizers on â€ŽYield and Yield Components of Phaseolous Vulgaris','Zaman Abdollahi Sahlabadi, Mohammad Mehdi Rahimi, Kavoos Keshavarzi','88 ZAMAN ABDOLLAHI SAHLABADI.pdf','',1,'To evaluate the effect of Azotobacter and Bio-phosphate fertilizers on yield and yield â€Žcomponents of Phaseolous, an experiment was conducted during 2012-13 in Lordegan city at Chahar Mahal-va-Bakhtiari province, Iran. Factorial testing was â€Žcarried out in a randomized complete block design (RCBD) in three replications. First â€Žfactor included Azotobacter treatment and the second factor Bio-phosphate was in the â€Žform of seed inoculation at a rate of 100 g per 70 kg of seed.â€Ž Measured traits include the number of nodes on the main stem, number of lateral â€Žbranches, number of seeds per pod, bush height, seed weight, seed yield, biological yield, â€Žprotein percentage in the shoot. The results of the comparison showed that the factor of â€ŽAzotobacter and Bio-phosphate biofertilizers alone or in combination had a significant â€Žeffect on grain yield, its biological yield and bean harvest index at 5% than the control â€Žtreatment. The results of the mean comparison indicated the','Azotobacter, Bio-phosphate, Phaseolus vulgaris, Yeild, Yield component ','The mean comparison of results showed that the use of Bio-phosphate and Azotobacter treatments alone or in combination can increase grain yield and biological yield at the 5% level compared to the control treatment which is highly economical. The interaction of biological fertilizers to increase efficiency, yield and yield components of beans is recommended. Since nowadays there is a reduced tendency toward the use of chemical fertilizers among the societies, the use of bio fertilizers can be a positive approach in this regard.','Today, global approach of agricultural production goes toward creating sustainable farming systems and applying managerial techniques, one of these approaches is the use of bio-fertilizers. The first bio-fertilizer was used in the late nineteenth century and then, other bio-fertilizers have been made (Sharma, 2002). The main advantages of plant growth promoting bacteria are producing regulating and plant growth stimulating hormones, developing root system and improving the uptake of water and nutrients, improving germination and seedling emergence, the synergistic effect of rhizobium, improving plant access to phosphorus, biological nitrogen fixation (Hafeez and Hassan, 2012; Hamidi et al, 2009). Phosphate solubilizing microorganisms are considered as a kind of bio-fertilizer which can improve the plant growth by dissolving phosphorus in sparingly soluble phosphate \r\nminerals such as rock phosphate (Hafeez and Hassan, 2012; Liu et al, 2009) the use of biological fertilizers which conta','Zaman Abdollahi Sahlabadi, Mohammad Mehdi Rahimi, Kavoos Keshavarzi (2015). Investigating the Effect of Azotobacter and Bio-phosphate fertilizers on â€ŽYield and Yield Components of Phaseolous Vulgaris . Biological Forum â€“ An International Journal 7('),(4191,'117','Prevalence, Macroscopic and Microscopic Lesions of Bovine Fasciolosis at Ahvaz Abattoir, Khozestan Province, Iran','Jafar Arjmand, Nasser Hajipour, Seyed Mahdi Banan Khojasteh, Aabbas Imani Baran, Fereshte Mirshekar, Omid Ghashghaei, Khezr Samiei*and Amir Faramarzpour\r\n','89 NASSER HAJIPOUR.pdf','',1,'This survey reports the prevalence of fasciolosis in slaughtered cattle of Ahvaz abattoir, Khozestan Province, Iran. A total of 3000 cattle were randomly sampled and examined after slaughter. The livers of 114 cattle (3.8 %) were positive for fasiolosis. Depending on the degree of pathological lesions, 58 (50.88%), 41 (35.97%), and 15 (13.15%), were lightly, moderately and severely affected, respectively. The findings indicated that Fasciola hepatica was more prevalent (67.54%) than other flukes and infections including Fascicle gigantica (14.91%) and mixed infection (17.55%). Histopathological changes in infected livers were chronic portal hepatitis (14.91%), eosinophilic hepatitis (21.91%), cirrhosis (17.53%), migratory canals (21.1%), bile duct hyperplasia (14.91%), mild hepatitis (9.64%), respectively.','Fasciolosis, Ahvaz, Macroscopic, Microscopic, Liver lesions','This survey reports the prevalence of fasciolosis in slaughtered cattle of Ahvaz abattoir, Khozestan Province, Iran. A total of 3000 cattle were randomly sampled and examined after slaughter. The livers of 114 cattle (3.8 %) were positive for fasiolosis. Depending on the degree of pathological lesions, 58 (50.88%), 41 (35.97%), and 15 (13.15%), were lightly, moderately and severely affected, respectively. The findings indicated that Fasciola hepatica was more prevalent (67.54%) than other flukes and infections including Fascicle gigantica (14.91%) and mixed infection (17.55%). Histopathological changes in infected livers were chronic portal hepatitis (14.91%), eosinophilic hepatitis (21.91%), cirrhosis (17.53%), migratory canals (21.1%), bile duct hyperplasia (14.91%), mild hepatitis (9.64%), respectively. ','Fasciolosis is a liver parasitic infection affecting mainly both domestic and wild ruminants, but monogastrics and even humans can be infected (Knubben-Schweizer 2010; Mas-Coma et al. 1999; Qureshi et al. 2005). The two most important species that cause fasciolosis are Fasciola hepatica and Fasciola gigantica (Mungube et al. 2006; Rapsch et al. 2006; Terefe et al. 2012; Tolosa and Tigre 2007). These species are the causative agents of fasciolosis of animals and human, are reported from different regions in Iran (Ashrafi et al. 2006; Moghaddam et al. 2004; Rokni et al. 2002). The disease is responsible for considerable economic losses in the cattle industry, mainly through mortality, liver condemnation, reduced production of meat, milk, and wool, and expenditures for anti-helmintics (Dargie 1987). In Asia the most human cases were reported from Iran, mainly from Guilan Province, (Mas-Coma et al. 1999; Moghaddam et al. 2004; Rokni et al. 2002), but one report exists only on animal fasci','Jafar Arjmand, Nasser Hajipour, Seyed Mahdi Banan Khojasteh, Aabbas Imani Baran, Fereshte Mirshekar, Omid Ghashghaei, Khezr Samiei*and Amir Faramarzpour (2015). Prevalence, Macroscopic and Microscopic Lesions of Bovine Fasciolosis at Ahvaz Abattoir, Khoze'),(4192,'117','The Response of Three Sorghum Cultivars to Different Nutritional Treatments as a New Application for Sustainable Agriculture (NASA)','Mahboubeh Sharifi, Behzad Sani and Hamid Madani','90 BEHZAD SANI.pdf','',1,'To study the response of three sorghum cultivars to different nutritional treatments in sustainable agriculture, this experiment was conducted in 2013 at the plant production center of Tehran Municipal, District 5. The experiment was conducted in split plot in the form of a randomized complete block design with three replications and two factors: cultivar in three levels including Speedfeed (V1), Payam (V2) and Sepideh (V3), and nutritional treatments in eight levels including 300 kg/ha urea (N1), 100 kg/ha urea + 2 t/ha animal manure + foliar application of 0.5% salicylic acid (N2), 100 kg/ha urea + 4 t/ha animal manure + salicylic acid (N3), 100 kg/ha urea + 6 t/ha animal manure + salicylic acid (N4), 100 kg/ha urea + 2 t/ha vermicompost + salicylic acid (N5), 100 kg/ha urea + 4 t/ha vermicompost + salicylic acid (N6), 100 kg/ha urea + 6 t/ha vermicompost + salicylic acid (N7), 300 kg/ha urea + salicylic acid (N8). Analysis of variance indicated the significant effect of cultivar, nu','Sorghum bicolor, manure, vermicompost, salicylic acid. ','To study the response of three sorghum cultivars to different nutritional treatments in sustainable agriculture, this experiment was conducted in 2013 at the plant production center of Tehran Municipal, District 5. The experiment was conducted in split plot in the form of a randomized complete block design with three replications and two factors: cultivar in three levels including Speedfeed (V1), Payam (V2) and Sepideh (V3), and nutritional treatments in eight levels including 300 kg/ha urea (N1), 100 kg/ha urea + 2 t/ha animal manure + foliar application of 0.5% salicylic acid (N2), 100 kg/ha urea + 4 t/ha animal manure + salicylic acid (N3), 100 kg/ha urea + 6 t/ha animal manure + salicylic acid (N4), 100 kg/ha urea + 2 t/ha vermicompost + salicylic acid (N5), 100 kg/ha urea + 4 t/ha vermicompost + salicylic acid (N6), 100 kg/ha urea + 6 t/ha vermicompost + salicylic acid (N7), 300 kg/ha urea + salicylic acid (N8). Analysis of variance indicated the significant effect of cultivar, nu','Increased world population requires the boost of agricultural production. Sorghum (Sorghum bicolor) is a crop plant which is mainly used as forage crop for animals and livestock. Sorghum is an annual member of Poaceae family; a C4 plant which is located in the fifth rank after wheat, rice, maize and barley (Khodabandeh, 1995). Nutrient management is one of the most important agronomic practices of improving sorghum growth and yield. Chemical fertilizers and especially nitrogenous fertilizers are the most commonly used sources of nutrients for this purpose (Sharma, 2003).\r\nApplication of chemical fertilizers to agricultural fields in Iran was first started in 1940s, when the ministry of agriculture imported 11 tons of different types of chemical fertilizers. At first, there was a balance in using various types of fertilizers; however, little by little the proportion of nitrogenous and phosphorus fertilizers increased noticeably. Even in recent years, farmers are more interested in N and','Mahboubeh Sharifi, Behzad Sani and Hamid Madani (2015). The Response of Three Sorghum Cultivars to Different Nutritional Treatments as a New Application for Sustainable Agriculture (NASA) . Biological Forum â€“ An International Journal 7(1): 546-551 .'),(4193,'117','Effect Inoculation of Soybean Cultivars with bacteria \r\nRhizobium japonicum in Sistan\r\n','GhasemSancholi, Hamid Reza Mobasser and Hamid Reza Fanaei','91 HAMID REZA MOBASSER-1.pdf','',1,'This study is performed in order to investigate the inoculation effects of soybean cultivars with Rhizobium japonicum bacteria on yield and yield performance of these cultivars. The experiment was in the form of randomized complete block design split plots which conducted at Agricultural and Natural Resource Center of Zahak with three replication in 2012-2013. Experimental levels were consisted of non-inoculated and inoculated with rhizobium bacteria as the main factor, and the cultivars (varieties) factor with six level included M7, Sahar, Williams, M9, Zan, L17 which distributed in subplots randomly. The investigated quantitative and qualitative characters in this study consisted of plant height, number of pods per plant, number of seeds per pod, grain weight, biological yield, harvest index, raw protein, raw fat; and phonological traits included flowering onset, flowering period, and physiological maturity. The comparison between the obtained results and the results of control treat','Soybean, Inoculation, yield, variety (cultivar)','This study is performed in order to investigate the inoculation effects of soybean cultivars with Rhizobium japonicum bacteria on yield and yield performance of these cultivars. The experiment was in the form of randomized complete block design split plots which conducted at Agricultural and Natural Resource Center of Zahak with three replication in 2012-2013. Experimental levels were consisted of non-inoculated and inoculated with rhizobium bacteria as the main factor, and the cultivars (varieties) factor with six level included M7, Sahar, Williams, M9, Zan, L17 which distributed in subplots randomly. The investigated quantitative and qualitative characters in this study consisted of plant height, number of pods per plant, number of seeds per pod, grain weight, biological yield, harvest index, raw protein, raw fat; and phonological traits included flowering onset, flowering period, and physiological maturity. The comparison between the obtained results and the results of control treat','Among the plant oils, soy has special features. It has a wide and varied range of applications. Soybean oil is one of the main components of edible oil market. And to feed of many people is consumed especially as margarine and hydrogenated fats. Soy is a valuable and strategic plant with 35 to 45 percent and 18 to 22 percent of the oil in the seed. In addition to the various uses, vegetable oils in the diet, in the industry is also made of it, various materials. Soybean oil contains unsaturated fatty acids such as oleic acid, linoleic acid, linolenic acid and This unsaturated fatty acids, are very important in terms of supplying vitamin and maintaining health of humans. The use of bacteria at planting soybeans instead of nitrogen fertilizer adds to its importance. Nitrogen fixation by Rhizobium bacteria by reducing the use of nitrogenous fertilizers and related costs prevent from nitrate pollution resulted from fertilizer. Although biological nitrogen fixation systems is a long-term','GhasemSancholi, Hamid Reza Mobasser and Hamid Reza Fanaei (2015). Effect Inoculation of Soybean Cultivars with bacteria Rhizobium japonicum in Sistan .Biological Forum â€“ An International Journal 7(1): 552-558.\r\n'),(4194,'117','Electromagnetic Fields and its effect on Chicken Embryo','Pouya Faeghi, Mohammad Narimani-Rad and Elshan Besharat Pour','92 POUYA FAEGHI.pdf','',1,'In present review, the results of bioelectromagnetic studies on chicken embryo (from d-0 to d-21) are summarized. With attention to feasibility in exposing embryo to electromagnetic fields (EMF) in egg, chicken is a suitable model in compared with mammalian. Because its development formed in external condition (separate from uterus). In present review, EMFs are categorized with its frequency (Hz) and intensity (Tesla). Also, content were separated with kind of filed (electric, magnetic and electromagnetic fields). The review had attempted to introduce hazardous effect of EMF on embryo health and development. ','Bioelectromagnetics, chicken embryo, embryonic development','In present review, the results of bioelectromagnetic studies on chicken embryo (from d-0 to d-21) are summarized. With attention to feasibility in exposing embryo to electromagnetic fields (EMF) in egg, chicken is a suitable model in compared with mammalian. Because its development formed in external condition (separate from uterus). In present review, EMFs are categorized with its frequency (Hz) and intensity (Tesla). Also, content were separated with kind of filed (electric, magnetic and electromagnetic fields). The review had attempted to introduce hazardous effect of EMF on embryo health and development. ','Over the past decade, the scientific debate about the effects of exposure to electromagnetic field is Common animals in human health. Uncertainties exist about the biological effects of EMF reached a point that the World Health Organization A special committee was formed to assess hazards and radiation fields. Many international standard institution for EMF and Industrial workers exposed to electromagnetic field exposure limits set Workshops. Frequency of 300 GHz was announced as the extent of risk exposure in all environments. Later stringent standards go punctual and Different ranges for different frequency explaned . Today, studies a wide range of frequencies (0-300GHZ) Both radioactive and non-radioactive field are dangerous. (Grandolfo, 2009). In EMF experiment in (in vivo) condition they use hen fetus for test model. Experiments on human embryos are incompatible with the rules of medical ethics. Therefore, tests of cognitive dissonance in baby animals, especially baby chi','Pouya Faeghi, Mohammad Narimani-Rad and Elshan Besharat Pour . Electromagnetic Fields and its effect on Chicken Embryo .Biological Forum â€“ An International Journal 7(1): 559-563 . '),(4195,'117','The effects of Hull less Barley with and without enzyme on Performance and Blood Parameters of Arian Broilers','Abbas Rostami, Akbar Yaghobfar, Yahya Ebrahimnezhad, Habib Aghdam Shahryar and Hamidreza Seyedabadi\r\n','93 AKBAR YAGHOBFAR.pdf','',1,'The study was conducted on Four hundred one-day Arian broiler chicken to investigate the effect of hull less barley with and without enzyme supplementation on performance and blood parameters in (Arian) broilers. Chicks were allotted into 5 equal groups (80 chicks of mixed sex per group). Two experimental diets were formulated, basal diet containing 10% and 15% hull less barley with and without enzyme supplementation from 1 to 21 day and 15% and 20% hull less barley with and without enzyme supplementation from 21 to 42 day together control diet. Enzyme supplementation significantly (p<0.05) improved the feed Conversion ratio, body weight gain and body weight of broilers from 1 to 42 d. The concentrations of serum glucose, triglyceride, HDL, LDL, albumin, globulin and total protein were not affected by the supplementation of enzyme but cholesterol was affected (p<0.05).','Enzyme, NSP, Broilers, Blood Parameters ','The study was conducted on Four hundred one-day Arian broiler chicken to investigate the effect of hull less barley with and without enzyme supplementation on performance and blood parameters in (Arian) broilers. Chicks were allotted into 5 equal groups (80 chicks of mixed sex per group). Two experimental diets were formulated, basal diet containing 10% and 15% hull less barley with and without enzyme supplementation from 1 to 21 day and 15% and 20% hull less barley with and without enzyme supplementation from 21 to 42 day together control diet. Enzyme supplementation significantly (p<0.05) improved the feed Conversion ratio, body weight gain and body weight of broilers from 1 to 42 d. The concentrations of serum glucose, triglyceride, HDL, LDL, albumin, globulin and total protein were not affected by the supplementation of enzyme but cholesterol was affected (p<0.05).','Corn is a major ingredient (above 50%) in broiler diets, contributing about 65% of broiler ME requirements. However, increasing corn prices by reason of its preferential diversion toward human consumption and corn ethanol industry have compelled the poultry industry to reduce reliance on corn. Despite numerous scientific investigations no alternative grain to corn has yet been identified. The use of wheat and barley grains in broiler feed is limited by the presence of soluble non-starch polysaccharides, particularly xylans, arabinoxylans and Beta-glucans components (Pourreza et al., 2007). Majority of coarse cereals in poultry diets contains high fiber and low energy (Rama-Rao et al., 2004). It is recognized that poultry diets contain variable levels of poorly digested NSP including arabinoxylans, glucons and pectin (Campbell and Bedford, 1992) that possess chemical cross-linking between them and are not well digested by poultry (Adams and Pough, 1993). Poultry produce a number of enzy','Abbas Rostami, Akbar Yaghobfar, Yahya Ebrahimnezhad, Habib Aghdam Shahryar and Hamidreza Seyedabadi (2015). The effects of Hull less Barley with and without enzyme on Performance and Blood Parameters of Arian Broilers .Biological Forum â€“ An Internationa'),(4196,'117','Effect of intercropping Sorghum (Sorghum bicolor L) and Persian clover on some characteristics of Sorghum','Seyed Majid Hashemi, Hamid Reza Mobasser and Hamid Reza Ganjali','94 HAMID REZA MOBASSER-2.pdf','',1,'Intercropping is one of the most common practices used in sustainable agricultural systems which have an important role in increasing the productivity and stability of yield in order to improve resource utilization and environmental factors. Cereal/legume intercropping system may be increase soil fertility via raising its organic content and available nitrogen fixed by legume. Sorghum (Sorghum bicolor L.) is the fifth most important cereal in the world followed by wheat, rice, maize and barley. Persian clover is among the most important forage crops native from the temperate regions cultivated in these regions to produce seeds; Persian clover can establish a symbiotic relation with the soil rhizobium. The field experiment was laid out in randomized complete block design with factorial design with four replications. Analysis of variance showed that the effect of intercropping and row space on fresh forage yield was significant.','Intercropping, sorghum, persian clover','Intercropping is one of the most common practices used in sustainable agricultural systems which have an important role in increasing the productivity and stability of yield in order to improve resource utilization and environmental factors. Cereal/legume intercropping system may be increase soil fertility via raising its organic content and available nitrogen fixed by legume. Sorghum (Sorghum bicolor L.) is the fifth most important cereal in the world followed by wheat, rice, maize and barley. Persian clover is among the most important forage crops native from the temperate regions cultivated in these regions to produce seeds; Persian clover can establish a symbiotic relation with the soil rhizobium. The field experiment was laid out in randomized complete block design with factorial design with four replications. Analysis of variance showed that the effect of intercropping and row space on fresh forage yield was significant.','Stable agriculture is ascribed to the authentic management of agricultural resources, which in addition to fulfilling the ever-changing needs of humans, maintains the health of environment and capacity of water and soil resources (Reijntjes et al, 1992). Intercropping is one of the most common practices used in sustainable agricultural systems which have an important role in increasing the productivity and stability of yield in order to improve resource utilization and environmental factors (Alizadeh et al., 2010).Increasing interest in sustainability and environmental concerns has shifted attention back to intercropping as a means of better utilization of resources while preserving the environment (Anders et al., 1996). Advantages of intercropping are numerous and well-documented (Chatterjee and Mandal, 1992; Egbe et al.2009; Egbe, 2010).An alternative procedure to mitigate the effect of these constrains and to increase the acreage and production of such secondary crops is intercroppe','Seyed Majid Hashemi, Hamid Reza Mobasser and Hamid Reza Ganjali (2015). Effect of intercropping Sorghum (Sorghum bicolor L) and Persian clover on some characteristics of Sorghum .Biological Forum â€“ An International Journal 7(1): 570-574 .'),(4197,'117','Prevalence of flea infestation in stray cats in North West of Iran, Iran','Nasser Hajipour, Mojtaba Keighobadi, Aram Minas Reyhan Abad, Mostafa Golabi and Armen Badali\r\n','95 NASSER HAJIPOUR.pdf','',1,'Stray cats are important as the potential reservoir hosts of a variety of endoparasites and ectoparasites in medical and veterinary point of view. Ectoparasites, particularly fleas are a common and important cause of skin disorders in cats and these are also capable of disease transmission and can cause life-threatening anemia in young or debilitated animals. The objective of this study was to determine the prevalence of flea infestation in stray cats in Azarshahr, East Azarbayjan, Iran. From a total 50 stray cats examined, 35 (70%) were males and 15 (30%) were females. The overall prevalence of fleas infestation was 92%. Two species were present, of which Ctenocephalides felis felis was the most abundant (61.05%) followed by Ctenocephalides felis canis (38.94%). No lice, tick and mite were found on cats during this study.\r\nThere was no significant difference in infestion rate between male and female cats. However, the overall prevalence of fleas was higher amongst male compare with fe','Flea, stray cats, Ctenocephalides, Azarshahr','C. f. felis was known to be the most common ectoparasite of stray cats. Our results provide important information about the prevalence and the kind of ectoparasites present in stray cats in Azarshahr city, East Azerbaijan Province, North West, Iran, and provide the basis for additional work focus in developing control programs to prevent risks to public health.','Stray cats are animals that wander outdoors and can be found on the streets, food courts, markets and can also be free roaming but return to human habitation after foraging for food (Dryden and Rust, 1994; Rust and Dryden, 1997). These cats are exposed to many types of diseases and may harbour various parasites that are transmittable to human such as; toxoplasmosis, toxocariasi, opisthorchiasis, leishmaniasis (Bowman et al., 2010; Bush et al., 2011; Pennisi et al., 2013; Prokopowicz and Sosnowska, 1990; Richter et al., 2014; Youssef and Uga, 2014). Ectoparasites are a common and important cause of pruritic skin diseases and hypersensitivity disorders in stray cats, as well as Some ectoparasites are vectors of a wide range of important zoonotic diseases worldwide, such as borreliosis, bartonellosis, ehrlichiosis, rickettsiosis, anaplasmosis, yersiniosis, tularemia(AndrÃ© et al., 2014; Beaudu-Lange and Lange, 2014; Comer et al., 2001; Mencke, 2013; Ortuno et al., 2005; Robertson et al.','Nasser Hajipour, Mojtaba Keighobadi, Aram Minas Reyhan Abad, Mostafa Golabi and Armen Badali (2015). Prevalence of flea infestation in stray cats in North West of Iran, Iran .Biological Forum â€“ An International Journal 7(1): 575-580 .\r\n '),(4198,'117','On the Effect of Biofertilizers on the Yield and Yield Components of Wheat (Triticum aestivum) under Eyvan Climate Condition','Javad Heidaryan and Alireza Feilinezhad','96 ALIREZA FEILINEZHAD.pdf','',1,'In order to study the effect of Biofertilizers on Yield and Yield components of wheat, an experiment in the form of factorial design based on randomized complete blocks with three replications during 2011-2012 in Eyvan was conducted. Experimental factors included nitrogen and phosphorus biological treatments with three fertilizers and one control for each treatment. Nitroxin, Nitrocara, biofarm for nitrogen and Biosuper phosphate, phosphate fertilizer 2 and phosphate Behroshd for phosphorus fertilizers were used. Results indicated that nitrogen had a significant effect on all the studied traits under nitrogen treatment, the highest grain Yield 560.5 g.m2 was achieved by biofarm fertilizer. Phosphorus biological fertilizers also had a significant effect on all traits. The highest grain yield under the effect of phosphor 545.3 g.m2 belonged at phosphate fertilizer 2. Interactive effect of nitrogen and phosphorus biological fertilizers on the number of spikelets in spike, number of grain ','Wheat, Nitrogen biofertilizer, Phosphorus biological fertilizer, Yield','In order to study the effect of Biofertilizers on Yield and Yield components of wheat, an experiment in the form of factorial design based on randomized complete blocks with three replications during 2011-2012 in Eyvan was conducted. Experimental factors included nitrogen and phosphorus biological treatments with three fertilizers and one control for each treatment. Nitroxin, Nitrocara, biofarm for nitrogen and Biosuper phosphate, phosphate fertilizer 2 and phosphate Behroshd for phosphorus fertilizers were used. Results indicated that nitrogen had a significant effect on all the studied traits under nitrogen treatment, the highest grain Yield 560.5 g.m2 was achieved by biofarm fertilizer. Phosphorus biological fertilizers also had a significant effect on all traits. The highest grain yield under the effect of phosphor 545.3 g.m2 belonged at phosphate fertilizer 2. Interactive effect of nitrogen and phosphorus biological fertilizers on the number of spikelets in spike, number of grain ','Wheat is the most important agricultural plant that growth in a wide range of climate conditions. In fact, it is one of the most adaptable species among cereal (Noormohammadi et al., 2007). Wheat cultivation and growth is possible in all parts of the world (Khosrvi, 2001). The best regions for Wheat cultivation in terms of soil are areas with high amount of homus, enough ventilation and complete nutrient (Khosravi, 1997). Nutritious elements and soil condition have a great importance in plant growth. Successive and irregular cultivations has caused reduction of nutrients in agricultural soils of the world and has necessitated application of fertilizers in farms (Ahmadian et al., 2006). Researchers have estimated that 60 percent of land farms in the world lack nutrients that is the result of inaccessibility and poisonousness of some of the withal nutrients (Bukvic et al., 2003). Improving soil fertility is one of the important strategies in increasing agricultural products (Castagno et ','Javad Heidaryan and Alireza Feilinezhad (2015). On the Effect of Biofertilizers on the Yield and Yield Components of Wheat (Triticum aestivum) under Eyvan Climate Condition .Biological Forum â€“ An International Journal 7(1): 581-585 .'),(4199,'117','Effects of the Biofertilizers Vermicompost and Azotobacter on Qualitative and Quantitative Characteristics of Petunia hybrida','M. Zeighami, A. Asgharzadeh and A. Dadar','97 AHMAD ASGHARZADEH @ MIRSHEKARI.pdf','',1,'Petunia belongs to the genus Petunia and family Solanaceae and is a native of South America. An experiment laid out in the factorial arrangement using the completely randomized design with 2 factors and 4 replications was conducted to study the effects of Vermicompost and Azotobacter biofertilizers on qualitative and quantitative characteristics of two cultivars: Persian petunia and Petunia hybrida. The treatments were various application rates of vermicompost (12.5, 23, 37.5, and 50 g/m2) and the various rates of Azotobacter (0, 25, 50, 75, and 100 %). The variety in this experiment was Petunia hybrida. Results of ANOVA indicated the effects of Vermicompost on plant height, stem diameter, number of flowers, fresh and dry weight per plant, dry weight of aerial organs, dry weight of roots, and flower diameter, and the effects of Azotobacter on dry weight of aerial organs were significant at the 1% level. However, Vermicompost had no significant effects on number of leaves. In the Persi','Petunia hybrida, Azotobacter, Vermicompost, Organic Fertilizer ','Petunia belongs to the genus Petunia and family Solanaceae and is a native of South America. An experiment laid out in the factorial arrangement using the completely randomized design with 2 factors and 4 replications was conducted to study the effects of Vermicompost and Azotobacter biofertilizers on qualitative and quantitative characteristics of two cultivars: Persian petunia and Petunia hybrida. The treatments were various application rates of vermicompost (12.5, 23, 37.5, and 50 g/m2) and the various rates of Azotobacter (0, 25, 50, 75, and 100 %). The variety in this experiment was Petunia hybrida. Results of ANOVA indicated the effects of Vermicompost on plant height, stem diameter, number of flowers, fresh and dry weight per plant, dry weight of aerial organs, dry weight of roots, and flower diameter, and the effects of Azotobacter on dry weight of aerial organs were significant at the 1% level. However, Vermicompost had no significant effects on number of leaves. In the Persi','Excessive use of fertilizers will cause environmental pollution and will destroy the balance of the ecosystem that is one of the major problems (Mishra, 2004). Thus, biological fertilizers can be considered a suitable solution for overcoming this problem, further by adding beneficial organisms to improve soil fertility and increasing fertilizer planting beds in hydroponic greenhouses and also increase the qualitative and quantitative products. In fact, using organic fertilizers like vermicompost and mycorrhizal fungi can be used in a sustainable agricultural system (Saleh, 2001). The use of organic matter such as animal manures, human waste, food wastes, yard wastes, sewage sludge and composts have long been recognized in agriculture as beneficial for plant growth, yield and in the maintenance of soil fertility. Traditional composting of organic matter wastes have been known for many years. But new methods of thermophilic composting have become much more popular in organic waste treatm','M. Zeighami, A. Asgharzadeh and A. Dadar (2015). Effects of the Biofertilizers Vermicompost and Azotobacter on Qualitative and Quantitative Characteristics of Petunia hybrida .Biological Forum â€“ An International Journal 7(1): 586-592.'),(4200,'117','Correlation Coefficient between Agronomic Traits in Soybean under different levels of Nitrogen Fertilizer and Irrigation','Ebrahim Amiri, Ali Arezoomand Chafi, Ali Abdzad Gohari and Raheleh Jenabi Haghparast','99 EBRAHIM AMIRI.pdf','',1,'To evaluate the effect of irrigation and nitrogen management on yield of soybean cultivars Chernika Agricultural Experiment Station, 2011 in the city of Guilan province in latitude 36 degrees 54 minutes Langeroud, And longitude 40 degrees 50 minutes, with an average height of 4 meters above sea level, was performed. In this paper, a split plot randomized complete block design with 3 replications was conducted in the field. The main factor of rainfed dryland and irrigation intervals 0, 6, 12 and 18 days of treatment and nitrogen containing 0, 30, 60, 90 and 120 were considered as sub. Management of irrigation, nitrogen and their interactions on yield and biological pod was significant at the 5% level. The yield on the 12 day irrigation management 5125.6 kg/ha, respectively the amount of fertilizer consumption from zero to higher levels, yield increases. In other words, in the absence of fertilizer lowest yield was obtained with the 3888.1 kg/ha but with increasing amounts of fertilizer,','Soybean, Water use, Irrigation intervals, yield','The results revealed that the zero level to a higher level of fertilizer consumption, seed yield increases. In other words, the lowest seed yield without fertilizer 3888.1 kg/ha was, But with increasing fertilizer significantly increased seed yield, so that the highest yield of 90 kg N/ha 5228.1 kg/ha was obtained. The highest pod yield of 12 day irrigation intervals with the 6312.3 kg/ha was obtained. The highest pod yield was obtained from 90 kg N ha increased from 90 to 120 kg of nitrogen leads to a reduction in pod yield from 6438.3 to 5804 kg/ha. ','RWC (%) = FW - DW Ã—100\r\n TW - DW \r\n\r\nFW = fresh weight (gram), TW = turgid weight (gram), and DW = dry weight (gram).\r\nWater use efficiency (WUE) was calculated than by Division yield (kg/ha) on water use (Zhang et al, 2005). For variance analysis and the comparison of mean values (Duncan test, probability level of 5%) and in order to draw relevant diagrams, MSTATC and Excel software were used.\r\nSoybean (Glycin max) plant available soil water content during all stages of plant growth exerts a significant effect (Kumudini et al (2002). Soybean plants under drought stress on field observations indicate that significant amounts of soil water access during all stages of plant development has an important effect on plant growth imposed. Briyer et al (2000) also concluded that climatic factors have no tangible impact on the spread of soybean roots, but in his view there is some contrary information. Thus, certain planning for water consumption level and how to optimize it should be done (De','Ebrahim Amiri, Ali Arezoomand Chafi, Ali Abdzad Gohari and Raheleh Jenabi Haghparast (2015). Correlation Coefficient between Agronomic Traits in Soybean under different levels of Nitrogen Fertilizer and Irrigation . Biological Forum â€“ An International J'),(4201,'117','Irrigation Management and Fertilizer of Peanut (Arachis hypogaea L) with a Drip Irrigation System: Yield, HI and Water Use Efficiency','Arash Khonok, Ebrahim Amiri and Hossein Babazadeh','100 EBRAHIM AMIRI.pdf','',1,'To investigate the effect of drip irrigation and nitrogen fertilizer rates on the yield of peanuts, split plot randomized complete block design with three replications of irrigation treatments, Including management of irrigation and drip irrigation with 60, 80 and 100% of the water requirements of plants. Minimum amounts of nitrogen fertilizer treatments consisted of 0, 30, 60 and 90 kg.N.ha-1 in crop year 2013 was conducted in Guilan province in the Astaneh Ashrafiyeh city. The results showed that the effect of irrigation and nitrogen fertilizer on biological yield, pod yield and seed yield was significant at the one percent level. But their interaction on biological yield, pod yield and seed yield was not significant. in The irrigation treatments, biological yield, seed yield and pod yield in 100% water requirement per plant, respectively was with values 6817.2, 2448.2 and 1877.5 kg/ha. Among the different amounts of nitrogen fertilizer, amounts 60 kg N ha-1 fertilizer, maximum biol','Peanut, water requirement, water use, yield.','The results showed that the effect of irrigation and nitrogen fertilizer on biological yield, pod yield and seed yield was significant at the one percent level. But their interactions on biological yield, pod yield and seed yield were not significant. In the irrigation treatments, biological yield, seed yield and pod yield in 100% water requirement per plant, respectively was with values 6817.2, 2448.2 and 1877.5 kg/ha. Among the different amounts of nitrogen fertilizer, amounts 60 kg N.ha-1 fertilizer, maximum biological yield was with an average 7519.8, the maximum amount of pod yield was with 2667 kg N.ha-1, and maximum seed yield with 2012.2 kg N.ha-1. The maximum water use efficiency based on biological yield, pod yield and seed yield with 0.42, 0.14 and 0.11 kg.m-3, respectively. Among the different levels of nitrogen fertilizer, the maximum water use efficiency was in 60 kg N.ha-1 for biological yield, pod yield and seed yield with 0.30, 0.11 and 0.08 kg/m3, which was higher th','Peanut (Arachis hypogaea L.) is an important crop that provides food for direct human subsistence and other several food products (Ngo Nkot et al., 2008). Peanut is legume cash crop for the farmers in arid and semi-arid regions and its seeds contain high amounts of edible oil (43-55%), protein (25-28%), and minerals (2.5%) (Abou Kheira, 2009). The origin of this plant is an area called Granchaco in Brazil (Abdzad Gohari and Amiri, 2011). China, India, the United States, Nigeria, Indonesia, Burma and Senegal are the major peanut producing countries. In Iran, this product is grown in Golestan, Khouzestan and Guilan provinces. In Guilan, it is mostly planted in Astaneh Ashrafiyeh and also along Sepidroud river margin (Abdzad Gohari, 2012). Peanut is grown under both rainfed and irrigated conditions, more than half of the production area in this region is rainfed (Woli et al., 2013; Kambiranda et al., 2011; Leclerc, 2010). Rainfall in the region of 500 to 700 mm per annum will be satisfact','Arash Khonok, Ebrahim Amiri and Hossein Babazadeh (2015). Irrigation Management and Fertilizer of Peanut (Arachis hypogaea L) with a Drip Irrigation System: Yield, HI and Water Use Efficiency .Biological Forum â€“ An International Journal 7(1): 609-616 . '),(4202,'117','Evaluate the Yield of Peanuts under Irrigation and Sulfur Fertilizer','Haleh Shafiee Sabet and Ebrahim Amiri','101 EBRAHIM AMIRI.pdf','',1,'To investigate the effect of different amounts of water and sulfur fertilizer on yield of peanut, Factorial experiment in a randomized complete block design with three replications during the crop year 2013 was conducted in Gilan province in the Astaneh Ashrafiyeh. Treatments was including management of rainfed and irrigated with 50, 75 and 100% water required in the plant and sulfur treatment was with the values 0, 30, 60 and 90 kg/ha. The results showed that the effect of irrigation on yield, and seed pods were significant at five percent. However, the interaction of water and sulfur fertilizer on yield, seed pods and not significant. In irrigation, the maximum yield, and seed pods in 75% of the aqueous, 5376, respectively, 3417.7 and 2348 kg/ha. Effect of irrigation and sulfur fertilizer on seed weight were significant at the five percent level. The amount of lines 50 and 100% of optimum irrigation treatments were similar. The maximum amount of lines in rainfed conditions was with ','Peanut, water requirements, yield, sulfur','The results showed that water restrictions and drought stress reduced leaf development and to reduce the yield of. In irrigation, the maximum yield, and seed pods in 75% of the aqueous, 5376, respectively, 3417.7 and 2348 kg/ha. Among the various levels of sulfur, sulfur content of 60 kg of fertilizer per hectare, with an average seed weight was the most heated 57.7. \r\nThe amount of lines 50 and 100% of optimum irrigation treatments were similar, but the maximum amount of lines in rainfed conditions was warm, with average 74.4 g. Among the various levels of sulfur, the maximum amount of 100-seed weight of 90 kg with an average of 75.7 g sulfur per hectare fertilizer treatments were observed.\r\n \r\n\r\n','Peanut is planted in arid and semi-arid areas and is very rich in protein and oil quality (Abdzad Gohari et al, 2014; Abdzad Gohari, and Noorhosseini Niyaki, 2010). The origin of this plant is an area called Granchaco in Brazil. Drought is one the limiting Factor in the yield of peanut in most of the countries (Abdzad Gohari et al, 2014; Abdzad Gohari and Amiri, 2011; Awal and Ikeda, 2002). Peanut crop is short and dark Peas year the warm weather, sunshine and plenty of water and a frost-free growing season of 200 days is needed. Peanuts at temperatures of 15 to 20Â°C with acceptable speed sprouting, so the first planting date in spring, when the average temperature of the day and night, between 18 and 20Â°C is considered. When is the best time to harvest peanuts half mild yellowing of the leaves, twigs and leaves occur. Seed is harvested before full maturity will shrink, on the other hand, caused a delay in harvest Pvsdgy seed or soil to sprout again. Among the countries of India, Chi','Haleh Shafiee Sabet and Ebrahim Amiri (2015). Evaluate the Yield of Peanuts under Irrigation and Sulfur Fertilizer .Evaluate the Yield of Peanuts under Irrigation and Sulfur Fertilizer .Biological Forum â€“ An International Journal 7(1): 617-620 .'),(4203,'117','The Effect of Eight Weeks of Aerobic Exercises on Aggression in Addicted Women under Methadone Treatment in Kermanshah','Simin Olfatimanesh, Masoud Hajirasouli and Abdolali Banaeifar','102 MASOUD HAJIRASOULI.pdf','',1,'Addicted women have further mental problems and issues as compared to other women which have been barely considered. The use of inexpensive and feasible preventive methods (like aerobic exercises) can help addicted women to promote their mental health and treatment. The present study examines the effect of 8-week aerobic exercises on changing the level of aggression in women under methadone treatment in Kermanshah. This quasi-experimental study was carried on addicted women under methadone treatment in Kermanshah in 2014. Among them, 40 were randomly divided into two control (n = 20) and test (n = 20) groups. Data was collected using Buss-Perry Aggression Questionnaire (AGQ). It was composed of 29 questions and subscales (verbal aggression, physical aggression, anger aggression and hostility aggression). Test group attended aerobic exercises for eight weeks (three times a week between 45min and 60min). To determine the effect of aerobic exercise on the level of aggression in women unde','Addiction Relapse, Aerobic Exercises, Aggression','Results of this study show that administering an eight-week aerobic routine has led to a significant improvement in the level of aggression as well as physical, hostility, and anger components. We can use sport for improving mental indices and physical (due to the secretion of hormones and enhancement of cardio-respiratory strength), and mental health of addicted women under methadone treatment. Results correlate with the results reported by another study, Effatsadat Vafamand et al, and Mahmoud Fazeli Bakhsheshi and Andros Stroll [6]. One of the therapeutic and hygienic methods is sport activity. It suits human\'s natural needs. Based on this approach, sport activities have positive and effective impacts on mental hygiene and mental health. Since long ago, sport exercises have been used for treating mental disorders [8]. \r\nResults reported by few studies show that regular physical exercises and motor activities have a positive effect on individuals\' behavioral and psychological status [','Drug abuse is one of the major problems of the present era. It has globally developed. It is a catastrophe ruining millions of lives and spending national macro capitals on fighting with or compensating for resulting damages. Its consequences include physical, mental, familial, cultural, economic, and social disorders. In Iran, humans have used opium for therapeutic purposes since hundreds of years ago. The history of addiction goes back to 400 years ago. It is critical to consider key physical and mental factors and also factors making family, school, living environment, and workplace susceptible to addition, its durability and relapse as well as the fact that addiction can appear in all personal, ethnic, cultural, and social groups and classes [1].\r\nAddiction is a social issue. Hence, women - as a half society population - are also involved either directly or indirectly. Although addiction is still known as a male phenomenon in Iranian society, several reports show that women have in','Simin Olfatimanesh, Masoud Hajirasouli and Abdolali Banaeifar (2015). The Effect of Eight Weeks of Aerobic Exercises on Aggression in Addicted Women under Methadone Treatment in Kermanshah .Biological Forum â€“ An International Journal 7(1): 621-624 . '),(4204,'117','The Effect of Intermittent Training on C-reactive Protein in Young Women','Imanzadeh Reza, Soori Rahman and Faraji Gholamreza','103 IMANZADEH REZA.pdf','',1,'Inflammation is an important factor in the cardiovascular events. C-reactive protein (CRP) is a marker of inflammation that directly involved in atherogenesis. The aim of the present study is to analyze the effects of the intermittent training on serum concentration of CRP in young women. For this purpose, 20 female voluntarily participated in our study. Subjects were randomly assigned to one of two groups: aerobic training and control. Training group exercised for 12 weeks, three sessions a week with definite intensity and distance. CRP, fat percentage, BMI And maximum oxygen consumption were measured both before and after the 12-week exercise. By means of the statistical test of T, the results showed that the aerobic training had significant effect on body weight, body fat percentage, BMI, VO2max, and CRP (pâ‰¤0.05). Our findings showed that with significant reduction of CRP levels and decreasing inflammation, aerobic intermittent training may perhaps play an effective role in athero','Intermittent Training - CRP- Young Women','Result of the present study indicated that intermittent training induces significant reduction of CRP, with significant reduction of body weight and percent body fat. All these effects of exercise training are beneficial regarding the reduction of cardiovascular risk for subsequent coronary events.','Development of cardiovascular disease has an inflammatory background and general inflammation plays a central role in the development and progression of atherosclerosis [1-3]. Therefore researchers are constantly looking for indicators to predict cardiovascular disease risk with greater accuracy and sensitivity. For this purpose many researchers have introduced CRP as one of the new factors and inflammatory markers predictive of cardiovascular disease, particularly atherosclerosis [4-7]. Any factor that reduces inflammatory markers may reduce atherosclerosis. In this respect other sciences, such as sports science have also acted to identify the relationship of disease and physical activity thereby helping to prevent it. Physical activity to reduce one\'s risk for cardiovascular disease is strongly recommended in the consensus statement from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention and the American College of Sports Medicine [8]. In addition, general population studies have reporte','Imanzadeh Reza, Soori Rahman and Faraji Gholamreza (2015). The Effect of Intermittent Training on C-reactive Protein in Young Women .Biological Forum â€“ An International Journal 7(1): 625-628'),(4205,'117','The Effect of Aerobic Training with difference Periods on Lipid Profile in Obese Women','Zahra Sadat Mossavi, Behbudi Laleh and Ahmadi Mozhgan','104 BEHBUDI LALEH.pdf','',1,'Cardiovascular diseases is one of the most important causes of mortality in the world obesity is one of the causes. Increase in blood lipid and triglyceride cholestrole is significant in over weights. The aim of this study was assessing the effect of periodic aerobic exercises on lipid profile of obese woman. This study which was a semi â€“ experimental research, 30 volunter obese woman (age 35-45 year, body mass index (BMI>30 kg/m2) were randomly divided into two equal groups experimental and control of each with 15 individuals. The subject in experimental group had an aerobic training program for 12 week (3 sessions in week, each session 45-60 minutes, the intensity of exercise was 60 to 80 minutes ,the intensity of exercise was 60 to 80 percent of maximum heart rate)Whereas control group had no regular physical activity. Blood samples (5cc) were taken from the participants to the beginning of the period, week 6 and end of week 12 in order to measure factors such as (TG, TC, HDL, LDL','Aerobic Exercise, Obesity, Lipid profile','In general, it can be stated that aerobic exercise alone without specific diet has a significant effect on weight, body mass index, body fat profile, fat percentage, triglycerides, total cholesterol, low-density lipoprotein, high-density lipoprotein in obese women. Improving lipid profile and risk factors of metabolic syndrome with aerobic exercise can decrease the prevalence of cardiovascular disease in untrained obese women. Studies have shown that the prevalence of obesity and relevant complications have increased in Iran, especially in women. Therefore, identifying ways to reduce risk factors and complications in obese individuals may have important clinical implications. Thereby, adopting a healthy lifestyle that includes maintaining a normal weight, engaging in regular exercise is a major step in the longevity and health of obese society.','Obesity or increased body fat percentage in one health problem in the twenty-first century. Epidemic obesity threatens health of children and adults. Obesity negatively affects health and longevity of the population. Obesity is associated with many diseases and health problems such as cardiovascular disease, metabolic syndrome, diabetes, hypertension, hyperlipidemia, etc [1, 2]. It seems that one reason for the association between obesity and cardiovascular because lies in the fact that obesity is associated with a number of health-threatening factors such as increased triglycerides levels, low levels of lipoprotein cholesterol with high-density HDL-c, high levels lipoprotein cholesterol with low-density LDL-c and hypertension. On the other hand, increased LDL-C and decreased HDL-C with hypertension underlies development of atherosclerosis [3].\r\nIn addition, high TG and low HDL-C are main causes of insulin resistance and metabolic syndrome, which can intensively lead to CHD. The TG / H','Zahra Sadat Mossavi, Behbudi Laleh and Ahmadi Mozhgan (2015). The Effect of Aerobic Training with difference Periods on Lipid Profile in Obese Women .Biological Forum â€“ An International Journal 7(1): 629-634 .'),(4206,'117','Student\'s Physical Activity and Its Relation with Change of Some Physiological Indices','Kasbparast Jui Ray Mehdi, Alireza Rahimi, Fariba Aghaei and Alireza Shokrgozar ','105 KASBPARAST JR. MEHDI @ EZADI.pdf','',1,'There is number of non-athlete Students University that they are at risk of some cardiac diseases in future so, some information about physiological indices can help to protect them. This research is a simple way to measure of some physiological indices such as systolic blood pressure (SBP), diastolic blood pressure (DBP), body mass index (BMI) and resting heart rate (RHR) and their relation with physical activity. Participants were 30 non-athlete university students male with age: 21.5, heights: 177.8 cm and weight: 73.5 kg, also SBP and DBP measured by sphygmomanometer, RHR by counting of pulse in all of subjects and measured BMI (pre-test). Then participants trained three sessions per week for 13 weeks based on overload principle that exercise program was consist of: jogging (10 minutes) stretching training (10minutes) aerobic exercise (30minutes) and at the end of session cool down(5minutes). After 13 weeks physiological indices measured in all of students for second time (post-tes','Resting heart rate, systolic blood pressure, diastolic blood pressure, body mass index','There is number of non-athlete Students University that they are at risk of some cardiac diseases in future so, some information about physiological indices can help to protect them. This research is a simple way to measure of some physiological indices such as systolic blood pressure (SBP), diastolic blood pressure (DBP), body mass index (BMI) and resting heart rate (RHR) and their relation with physical activity. Participants were 30 non-athlete university students male with age: 21.5, heights: 177.8 cm and weight: 73.5 kg, also SBP and DBP measured by sphygmomanometer, RHR by counting of pulse in all of subjects and measured BMI (pre-test). Then participants trained three sessions per week for 13 weeks based on overload principle that exercise program was consist of: jogging (10 minutes) stretching training (10minutes) aerobic exercise (30minutes) and at the end of session cool down(5minutes). After 13 weeks physiological indices measured in all of students for second time (post-tes','Regular physical activity using large muscle groups, such as walking, running, or swimming, produces cardiovascular adaptations that increase exercise capacity, endurance, and skeletal muscle strength. Habitual physical activity also prevents the development of coronary artery disease (CAD) and reduces symptoms in patients with established cardiovascular disease. There is also evidence that exercise reduces the risk of other chronic diseases, including type II diabetes [1], osteoporosis [2], obesity[3], depression [4], cancer of the breast [5], and colon[6]. Continued debate as to how much, what type, how often, what intensity, and how long the physical activity dose should be and how this dose should be quantified and disseminated has led to the promulgation of numerous different public health and clinical recommendations. Some of the inconsistency among physical activity recommendations is due simply to the inherent uncertainties of biomedical science, augmented by methodological di','Kasbparast Jui Ray Mehdi, Alireza Rahimi, Fariba Aghaei and Alireza Shokrgozar (2015). Student\'s Physical Activity and Its Relation with Change of Some Physiological Indices . Biological Forum â€“ An International Journal 7(1): 6356390 .'),(4207,'117','The Relationship between Learning Organization and Quality of Work Life among Physical Education Teachers in Delfan, IRAN','Somayeh Darvishi and Mehdi Kohandel','106 MEHDI KOHANDEL.pdf','',1,'The aim of present study was to investigate the relationship between learning organization and the quality of work life among physical education teachers in Delfan, Iran. It was a survey and descriptive- correlation. The statistical population included all (n=84) male and female physical education teachers in Delfan, Iran who participated in this study through all-counting method.In this study, two 43-question questionnaires of Watkins and Marsick\'s learning organization model (1996) and Karyalna Yaron (2007) 44- question questionnaire of work life quality were used. Data analysis was done using Pearson\'s correlation and multivariate regression. The results showed that the quality of work life and its dimensions (team communication, role clarity, authority in decision-making, organizational commitment, organizational participation, occupational stress, organizational conflict) has a significant relationship with the LO of physical education teachers in Delfan, Iran. Based on the parame','Learning organization and quality of work life, Teamwork communications, Role clarity','The aim of present study was to investigate the relationship between learning organization and the quality of work life among physical education teachers in Delfan, Iran. It was a survey and descriptive- correlation. The statistical population included all (n=84) male and female physical education teachers in Delfan, Iran who participated in this study through all-counting method.In this study, two 43-question questionnaires of Watkins and Marsick\'s learning organization model (1996) and Karyalna Yaron (2007) 44- question questionnaire of work life quality were used. Data analysis was done using Pearson\'s correlation and multivariate regression. The results showed that the quality of work life and its dimensions (team communication, role clarity, authority in decision-making, organizational commitment, organizational participation, occupational stress, organizational conflict) has a significant relationship with the LO of physical education teachers in Delfan, Iran. Based on the parame','Huge and wonderful advances in science and technology have hardly evolved the organizations and this change will continue with an increasing pace. In such situations, organizations in which informed developments and useful innovations takes place are needed. Nowadays, one of the major factors of survival in organizations is to accept evaluation. The intensity and depth of these changes is to the point that new and developed ways are required to tackle, coordinate and adapt with it. An organization which responses these requirements against changes and developments is known as learning organization [1]. Learning organization is the resultant of efforts that have been done for the organizational improvement and development. The study of management literature suggests that the role of individual training, group training and organizational learning has been mentioned as the most effective and reliable solution for continuous improvement of the organization. However, today these concepts ar','Somayeh Darvishi and Mehdi Kohandel (2015). The Relationship between Learning Organization and Quality of Work Life among Physical Education Teachers in Delfan, IRAN . Biological Forum â€“ An International Journal 7(1): 640-643 .'),(4208,'117','The Relationship between Learning Organization and Quality of Work Life among Physical Education Teachers in Delfan, IRAN','Somayeh Darvishi and Mehdi Kohandel','106 MEHDI KOHANDEL.pdf','',1,'The aim of present study was to investigate the relationship between learning organization and the quality of work life among physical education teachers in Delfan, Iran. It was a survey and descriptive- correlation. The statistical population included all (n=84) male and female physical education teachers in Delfan, Iran who participated in this study through all-counting method.In this study, two 43-question questionnaires of Watkins and Marsick\'s learning organization model (1996) and Karyalna Yaron (2007) 44- question questionnaire of work life quality were used. Data analysis was done using Pearson\'s correlation and multivariate regression. The results showed that the quality of work life and its dimensions (team communication, role clarity, authority in decision-making, organizational commitment, organizational participation, occupational stress, organizational conflict) has a significant relationship with the LO of physical education teachers in Delfan, Iran. Based on the parame','Learning organization and quality of work life, Teamwork communications, Role clarity','The aim of present study was to investigate the relationship between learning organization and the quality of work life among physical education teachers in Delfan, Iran. It was a survey and descriptive- correlation. The statistical population included all (n=84) male and female physical education teachers in Delfan, Iran who participated in this study through all-counting method.In this study, two 43-question questionnaires of Watkins and Marsick\'s learning organization model (1996) and Karyalna Yaron (2007) 44- question questionnaire of work life quality were used. Data analysis was done using Pearson\'s correlation and multivariate regression. The results showed that the quality of work life and its dimensions (team communication, role clarity, authority in decision-making, organizational commitment, organizational participation, occupational stress, organizational conflict) has a significant relationship with the LO of physical education teachers in Delfan, Iran. Based on the parame','Huge and wonderful advances in science and technology have hardly evolved the organizations and this change will continue with an increasing pace. In such situations, organizations in which informed developments and useful innovations takes place are needed. Nowadays, one of the major factors of survival in organizations is to accept evaluation. The intensity and depth of these changes is to the point that new and developed ways are required to tackle, coordinate and adapt with it. An organization which responses these requirements against changes and developments is known as learning organization [1]. Learning organization is the resultant of efforts that have been done for the organizational improvement and development. The study of management literature suggests that the role of individual training, group training and organizational learning has been mentioned as the most effective and reliable solution for continuous improvement of the organization. However, today these concepts ar','Somayeh Darvishi and Mehdi Kohandel (2015). The Relationship between Learning Organization and Quality of Work Life among Physical Education Teachers in Delfan, IRAN . Biological Forum â€“ An International Journal 7(1): 640-643 .'),(4209,'117','Effect of Endurance Exercise Training on Blood Pressure in Elderly Patients with Hypertension','Kasbparast Jr. Mehdi, Mehdi Kohandel, Fariba Aghaei, Mina Rostami','108 KASBPARAST JR. MEHDI @ EZADI.pdf','',1,'This study is conducted with the aim of investigating the effect of moderate physical activity (60% of maximal heart rate-MHR) on blood pressure in elderly people with hypertension. Hypertension is considered a modifiable risk factor for cardiovascular disease through physical activity. The purpose and significance of this study, was to investigate the role of exercise as an alternative therapy, since some patients exhibit sensitivity/intolerance to some drugs. Initially, 65 hypertensive males (average age = 49.7 years), (systolic blood pressure, SBP >140 mmHg and/or diastolic blood pressure, DBP>85 mmHg) and 25 hypertensive males as control group (average age = 50.3 years and systolic blood pressure, SBP >140 mmHg and/or diastolic blood pressure, DBP>85 mmHg) were selected. The subjects were divided based on their age, duration of disease, physical activity, and drug consumption. Then, blood pressure and heart rate (HR) were measured in all of the patients using sphygmomanometer (pre-','Hypertension, endurance exercise, elderly patients','This study is conducted with the aim of investigating the effect of moderate physical activity (60% of maximal heart rate-MHR) on blood pressure in elderly people with hypertension. Hypertension is considered a modifiable risk factor for cardiovascular disease through physical activity. The purpose and significance of this study, was to investigate the role of exercise as an alternative therapy, since some patients exhibit sensitivity/intolerance to some drugs. Initially, 65 hypertensive males (average age = 49.7 years), (systolic blood pressure, SBP >140 mmHg and/or diastolic blood pressure, DBP>85 mmHg) and 25 hypertensive males as control group (average age = 50.3 years and systolic blood pressure, SBP >140 mmHg and/or diastolic blood pressure, DBP>85 mmHg) were selected. The subjects were divided based on their age, duration of disease, physical activity, and drug consumption. Then, blood pressure and heart rate (HR) were measured in all of the patients using sphygmomanometer (pre-','The increasing urbanization of modern society has led to profound changes in behavior, in particular a growing trend towards sedentary lifestyles. It is estimated that children nowadays expend 600kcal/day less in physical activity than their counterparts 50 years ago [1]. However, there is clear evidence of an inverse dose-response relation between total quantity and intensity of exercise and cardiovascular mortality, in both healthy individuals and in those with cardiovascular disease (CVD) [2, 3]. It is important to differentiate physical activity from exercise and sports [4]. The definition of them showed in Table 1, but all three are useful at all stages of the natural history of CVD.\r\nExercise therapy is recommended in all the main clinical guidelines on CVD [5, 6, and 7] and if properly implemented, it also has beneficial effects on risk factors for CVD, including hypertension, dyslipidemia, insulin resistance, obesity, and inflammation [8, 9]. In the case of hypertension in par','Kasbparast Jr. Mehdi, Mehdi Kohandel, Fariba Aghaei, Mina Rostami (2015). \r\nEffect of Endurance Exercise Training on Blood Pressure in Elderly Patients with Hypertension .Biological Forum â€“ An International Journal 7(1): 650-655.'),(4210,'117','The relationship between self-efficacy and stress-coping strategies among volleyball players','Azam Kazemi and Mehdi Kohandel','109 MEHDI KOHANDEL.pdf','',1,'The aim of this study was to determine the relationship between self-efficacy and stress-coping strategies among young male volleyball players in Karaj, Iran. This study used a descriptive - correlation approach. The statistical population of this study was 200 young male volleyball players, of which, 130 were randomly selected as statistical sample and their average age was 22.31.Research questionnaires included self-efficacy of Sherer and Maddux (1982) and stress-coping strategies of Endler and Parker (1990). Kolmogorov-Smirnov (KS) statistical test showed that data distribution is not normal. The Spearman correlation coefficient was used to determine the relationship between variables. The results showed that there is a significant positive correlation between self-efficacy and its three components with problem solving coping strategy of volleyball players. A significant negative correlation was obtained between the self-efficacy and its components with avoidance coping strategy, bu','Self-efficacy, coping strategies, Volleyball','The results showed that there is a significant positive relationship between self- efficacy and all of its three components (desire to initiate behavior, desire to expand efforts, being different in facing obstacles) with problem-focused coping strategy of volleyball players. These results are consistent with the results of Mammary (2010), Reicy et al (2006) and Farid and Salibi (2013) which showed that people with high self-efficacy use Problem-focused coping strategy [10,11,13]. \r\n \r\n\r\nIt is also consistent with the results of Azadi et al (2014) which demonstrated that there is a significant positive correlation between coping strategies and self-efficacy in job stress [9]. People with higher self-efficacy can effectively deal with the events and circumstances, since in overcoming the problems they expect success, persist in doing their task and often perform at high level. They see problems as challenges rather than threats and actively search for new success. \r\nThe results also sho','In addition to physical factors the progress of athletes also depends on psychological factors and achieving success will require sufficient time and physical and mental exercises [1]. Sometimes, athletic due to lack of coach\'s knowledge about his personal characteristics and psychological factors only with a sentence or action of coach, leaves sport scene or his performance gets impaired. Therefore, sport psychologists and researchers should pay attention to this important so that teachers and sports coaches through using these findings and proper practical psychological solutions train the body and spirit of athletes [2]. Bandura considers self-efficacy as a cognitive process through that we extend many social behaviors and personal characteristics. Whether individuals through testing or coping with difficult situations will solve them or not is a function of their confidence in their effectiveness. People are afraid of the threatening situations, that they believe they cannot cope w','Azam Kazemi and Mehdi Kohandel (2015). The relationship between self-efficacy and stress-coping strategies among volleyball players .Biological Forum â€“ An International Journal 7(1): 656-661 .'),(4211,'117','Influence of variety on biological yield, harvest index, Percent of protein in Zea mays','Maryam Barahuyi Nikju, Hamid Reza Mobasser and Hamid Reza Ganjali','110 HAMID REZA MOBASSER.pdf','',1,'Maize (Zea mays L) is the third most important cereal after wheat and rice all over the world as well as in Pakistan. Maize is grown on an area of 9622000 ha with an annual average production and yield of 1665000 tones and 1730Kg ha-1, respectively. Among the abiotic stresses, drought is the most severe limitation to maize production. To a careful estimate, only drought reasons for 50% or more reduction in average yields worldwide. Water stress reduces crop yield regardless of the growth stage at which it occurs. Drought causes numerous physiological and biochemical changes in plants like reduced leaf size, stem extension, root proliferation, reduced water use efficiency. K application can improve drought tolerance in plants by regulating a variety of processes, such as osmoregulation, charge balance, energy status, and protein synthesis. The field experiment was laid out in randomized split plot design with factorial design with four replications. Treatments included irrigation (7, 10','Irrigation, Biological yield, Harvest Index','Maize (Zea mays L) is the third most important cereal after wheat and rice all over the world as well as in Pakistan. Maize is grown on an area of 9622000 ha with an annual average production and yield of 1665000 tones and 1730Kg ha-1, respectively. Among the abiotic stresses, drought is the most severe limitation to maize production. To a careful estimate, only drought reasons for 50% or more reduction in average yields worldwide. Water stress reduces crop yield regardless of the growth stage at which it occurs. Drought causes numerous physiological and biochemical changes in plants like reduced leaf size, stem extension, root proliferation, reduced water use efficiency. K application can improve drought tolerance in plants by regulating a variety of processes, such as osmoregulation, charge balance, energy status, and protein synthesis. The field experiment was laid out in randomized split plot design with factorial design with four replications. Treatments included irrigation (7, 10','Maize (Zea mays L) is the third most important cereal after wheat and rice all over the world as well as in Pakistan. Maize is grown on an area of 9622000 ha with an annual average production and yield of 1665000 tones and 1730Kg ha-1, respectively (Anonymous 2000). Maize had its origin in a semi-arid area but it is not a reliable crop for growing under dry land conditions, with limited or erratic rainfall (Arnon 1972). Maize is apparently more drought resistant in the early stages of growth than when fully developed. Extreme water stress at different stages of crop development has been reported to reduce the yield significantly (Dhillon et al. 1995). Maize is cultivated in both spring and autumn seasons and it is best suited in existing cropping scheme. However, yield potential of maize is highly prone a biotic stresses (Drought, salinity, extreme temperatures, flooding, pollutants & poor or excessive irradiation) which are important factors towards limiting the crop productivity (Mis','Maryam Barahuyi Nikju, Hamid Reza Mobasser and Hamid Reza Ganjali (2015). Influence of variety on biological yield, harvest index, Percent of protein in Zea mays . Biological Forum â€“ An International Journal 7(1): 662-667 . '),(4212,'117','The Effect of Acetylsalicylic acid and Calcium chloride on the Vase Life of cut Flower Rose Samurai','Saleh Azhir, Hossein Heidari Sharif Abad and Hamid Reza Mobasser','111 HOSSEIN HEIDARI SHARIF ABAD.pdf','',1,'Roses belong to family rosaceae are recognized for, their high economic value, which are used in agro-based industry especially in cosmetics and perfumes. Additionally, roses play a vital role in the manufacturing of various products of medicinal and nutritional importance. However, the main idea of rose plant cultivation is to get the cut flowers, which greatly deals with the floricultural business. Salicylic acid is (SA) is an endogenous growth regulator of phenolic nature, which participates in the regulation of physiological processes in plants. SA, for example, plays a role of natural inductor of thermogenesis in Arum lily, induces flowering in a range of plants, controls ion uptake by roots and stomatal conductivity. Calcium (Ca) is an important element that is found in 3% of the earthâ€™s crust. It is essential to living organisms and to plant growth and development. Some of these benefits include stronger cell walls. The field experiment was laid out in randomized complete bloc','Relative weight, diameter of flower, salicylic acid','Roses belong to family rosaceae are recognized for, their high economic value, which are used in agro-based industry especially in cosmetics and perfumes. Additionally, roses play a vital role in the manufacturing of various products of medicinal and nutritional importance. However, the main idea of rose plant cultivation is to get the cut flowers, which greatly deals with the floricultural business. Salicylic acid is (SA) is an endogenous growth regulator of phenolic nature, which participates in the regulation of physiological processes in plants. SA, for example, plays a role of natural inductor of thermogenesis in Arum lily, induces flowering in a range of plants, controls ion uptake by roots and stomatal conductivity. Calcium (Ca) is an important element that is found in 3% of the earthâ€™s crust. It is essential to living organisms and to plant growth and development. Some of these benefits include stronger cell walls. The field experiment was laid out in randomized complete bloc','Roses belong to family Rosaceae are recognized for, their high economic value, which are used in agro-based industry especially in cosmetics and perfumes. Additionally, roses play a vital role in the manufacturing of various products of medicinal and nutritional importance. However, the main idea of rose plant cultivation is to get the cut flowers, which greatly deals with the floricultural business (Zamani, 2011). The rose undoubtedly remains the queen of the cut flowers. Most of the commercial cut roses will easily last in a vase for 10 days. Unfortunately, many consumers consider roses to have a very short vase life. This is partly because of the poor water uptake by certain cultivars that often results in the â€˜bent neckâ€™ style (Reid, 2002). Salicylic acid or ortho-hydroxy benzoic acid is ubiquitously distributed in the whole plant kingdom and its history dates back to 1878, when it was worldâ€™s largest selling drug synthesized in Germany (Raskin et al., 1990). Salicylic acid ','Saleh Azhir, Hossein Heidari Sharif Abad and Hamid Reza Mobasser (2015). The Effect of Acetylsalicylic acid and Calcium chloride on the Vase Life of cut Flower Rose Samurai .Biological Forum â€“ An International Journal 7(1): 668-672 .'),(4213,'117','Influence of Water Stress and Plant Density on some Characteristics in corn','Aliakbar Bahadori, Hamid Reza Mobasser and Hamid Reza Ganjali','112 HAMID REZA MOBASSER.pdf','',1,'Maize (Zea mays L.) production under the semiarid conditions of the Islamic Republic of Iran during the summer requires supplemental irrigation to attain maximum yields. Maize is cultivated in both spring and autumn seasons and it is best suited in existing cropping scheme. However, yield potential of maize is highly prone a biotic stresses. In maize, flowering is the most crucial stage in terms of negative effects of drought on yield. During this stage, one single day of drought can potentially decrease yield up to 8%. Plant populations affect most growth parameters of maize even under optimal growth conditions and therefore it is considered a major factor determining the degree of competition between plants. The field experiment was laid out spit plot design with factorial design with three replications. Treatments included cut irrigation (S1: Cut irrigation in 8 leaf, S2:Cut irrigation in 12 leaf, S3: Male flower appearance, S4: Normal irrigation) and density (6 plant/m2, 8 plant/m2','Harvest Index, Biological yield, Seed yield','Maize (Zea mays L.) production under the semiarid conditions of the Islamic Republic of Iran during the summer requires supplemental irrigation to attain maximum yields. Maize is cultivated in both spring and autumn seasons and it is best suited in existing cropping scheme. However, yield potential of maize is highly prone a biotic stresses. In maize, flowering is the most crucial stage in terms of negative effects of drought on yield. During this stage, one single day of drought can potentially decrease yield up to 8%. Plant populations affect most growth parameters of maize even under optimal growth conditions and therefore it is considered a major factor determining the degree of competition between plants. The field experiment was laid out spit plot design with factorial design with three replications. Treatments included cut irrigation (S1: Cut irrigation in 8 leaf, S2:Cut irrigation in 12 leaf, S3: Male flower appearance, S4: Normal irrigation) and density (6 plant/m2, 8 plant/m2','Maize (Zea mays L.) production under the semiarid conditions of the Islamic Republic of Iran during the summer requires supplemental irrigation to attain maximum yields. Maize is cultivated in both spring and autumn seasons and it is best suited in existing cropping scheme. However, yield potential of maize is highly prone a biotic stresses (Drought, salinity, extreme temperatures, flooding, pollutants & poor or excessive irradiation) which are important factors towards limiting the crop productivity (Misovic, 1985; Lawlor, 2002). Among the abiotic stresses, drought is the most severe limitation to maize production (Sallah et al., 2002). To a careful estimate, only drought reasons for 50% or more reduction in average yields worldwide (Wang et al., 2003).Water and N deficit condition, leading to a reduction in crop production by reduce resource capture and resource use efficiency. Several experimenters subjected maize to a water deficit during different developmental stages. It was foun','Aliakbar Bahadori, Hamid Reza Mobasser and Hamid Reza Ganjali (2015). Influence of Water Stress and Plant Density on some Characteristics in corn .Biological Forum â€“ An International Journal 7(1): 673-678.'),(4214,'117','The Effect of Iron Nanoparticles Spraying Time and Concentration on Wheat','Mitra Bakhtiari, Payam Moaveni and Behzad Sani','113 MITRA BAKHTIARI, PAYAM MOAVENI AND BEHZAD SANI.pdf','',1,'Fe deficiency is a widespread nutritional problem in plants growing mainly in high pH and calcareous soils. Foliar application of Fe compounds with the technology of Nano may be a solution to the problem. So, this experiment was conducted in 2014 at the Research Field of Islamic Azad University, Shahr-e-Qods Branch, Iran, to evaluate the response of wheat growth, yield and quality to iron nanoparticles spraying. The experiment was conducted in factorial in the form of a randomized complete block design with four replications and two treatments: time of spraying in two levels (May 23 and June 6) and concentration of Fe Nano-oxide solution in five levels (0, 0.01%, 0.02%, 0.03% and 0.04%). The measured traits included: spike weight, 1000 grain weight, biologic yield, grain yield and grain protein content. Results showed that spraying time and concentration significantly affected all measured traits; however, the effect of interaction of the two factors was not significant. Mean compariso','Fe Nano-oxide, foliar application, micronutrients, Triticum aestivum L.','Fe deficiency is a widespread nutritional problem in plants growing mainly in high pH and calcareous soils. Foliar application of Fe compounds with the technology of Nano may be a solution to the problem. So, this experiment was conducted in 2014 at the Research Field of Islamic Azad University, Shahr-e-Qods Branch, Iran, to evaluate the response of wheat growth, yield and quality to iron nanoparticles spraying. The experiment was conducted in factorial in the form of a randomized complete block design with four replications and two treatments: time of spraying in two levels (May 23 and June 6) and concentration of Fe Nano-oxide solution in five levels (0, 0.01%, 0.02%, 0.03% and 0.04%). The measured traits included: spike weight, 1000 grain weight, biologic yield, grain yield and grain protein content. Results showed that spraying time and concentration significantly affected all measured traits; however, the effect of interaction of the two factors was not significant. Mean compariso','Wheat (Triticum aestivum L.) is a monocotyledon member of Poaceae family. It is a herbaceous annual plant. Wheat is probably the first crop plant which is domesticated and cultivated by human and in modern world it is the most important food crop in all over the world. There are a large number of wheat cultivars which adopted to different climatic conditions and that is why wheat is being cultivated in nearly all over the world (Khodabandeh, 2008; Noormohammadi et al., 2007).\r\nWheat yield is under influence of various factors such as climate, agronomic practices, cultivar, pests, diseases and weeds infestation. Among these factors, nutrient management is of a high importance. However, increased application of macronutrients especially N and P in the form of chemical fertilizers, and the lack of application of micronutrients to agricultural fields, salinity of soils, low organic matter content in soils and repeated farming have resulted in the sever lack of micronutrients in soils and i','Mitra Bakhtiari, Payam Moaveni and Behzad Sani (2015). The Effect of Iron Nanoparticles Spraying Time and Concentration on Wheat .Biological Forum â€“ An International Journal 7(1): 679-683.'),(4215,'117','Mozhgan Shirinpour, Saeid Aharizad, Mohammad Moghaddam Vahed \r\nand Seyed Abolghasem Mohammadi\r\n','Mozhgan Shirinpour, Saeid Aharizad, Mohammad Moghaddam Vahed \r\nand Seyed Abolghasem Mohammadi\r\n','114 SAEID AHARIZAD.pdf','',1,'Genotype Ã— environment interaction is important in developing and releasing new varieties of crop plants. To study genetic diversity and stability of wheat recombinant inbreed lines (RILs), 38 RILs derived from across between Zagros (facultative type, early maturing and drought resistant) and Norstar (winter type, late maturing and cold resistant) along parental lines were evaluated in randomized complete block design (RCBD) with three replications during of 2010-2011 and 2011-2012 cropping seasons. Based on combined analysis of variance significant differences were observed between lines for grain yield and 1000 grain weight. Line Ã— year interaction was significant for number of grain per spike, number of spike per square meter and 1000 grain weight. Using environmental variance and coefficient of variation, lines number 23, 95, 293 and 296 and based on non-parametric parameter of Ketata and Ecoavalance of Rick, lines number 28, 31 and 281 were the most stable lines with high grain ','Bread wheat, Genotype Ã— year interaction, Grain yield, Recombinant inbreed line, Stability analysis','In general, each group of researchers use one or combination of these methods in their studies in order to find stable and high yielding varieties. Parametric parameters of environmental variance and coefficient of variation and Ecoavalance of Rick more emphasis on Genotype Ã— environment interaction and select the genotypes that have biological stability but not great performance. These results correspond with comments of Lin and Binns (1988) and Backer (1981). Lin and Binns (1991) stated parametric parameters of environmental variance and coefficient of variation have the heritability and more reliable. Environmental coefficient of variation due to the introduction of high yield varieties that also have biological stability has a relative stability compared to other methods (Rao and Probhakaram, 2000). Finally Due to the interactions between genotype and environment, selecting varieties only in an environment is not appropriate criterion, so recommended tested varieties are evaluated','Wheat is the most important crop that widely cultivated in many countries, including Iran. Bread wheat was domesticated 1,200 years ago in the fertile areas (Salamini et al., 2002). Cultivated land and crop yield of wheat in Iran during 2012 were 7 million hectares and 13.5 million tonnes, respectively. World\'s area under wheat cultivation and its production were 216 million hectares and 675 million tonnes, respectively (FAO, 2012).\r\nGenotype Ã— environment interaction shows degree of uncertainty in measurement of each genotype. This uncertainty increases by enlarging the interaction (Delacy et al., 1996). Branocurt and Hulmel (2000) stated that genotype Ã— environment interaction is the main reason for adaptability of different genotypes to different environments. Increasing wheat production is an important goal to ensure food security. An ideal genotype should not only have the highest average performance, but also must be stable (Yan and Kang, 2003). \r\nThe breeding strategies adopte','Mozhgan Shirinpour, Saeid Aharizad, Mohammad Moghaddam Vahed \r\nand Seyed Abolghasem Mohammadi . (2015). Mozhgan Shirinpour, Saeid Aharizad, Mohammad Moghaddam Vahed and Seyed Abolghasem Mohammadi .Biological Forum â€“ An International Journal 7(1): 684-6'),(4216,'117','Modeling of Vargar Dam Reservoir Operation by Using System Dynamic','Ata Najafi Jilani, Mahmud Zakeri Nayeri and Arash Dalir','115 ARASH DALIR @ EDRISF.pdf','',1,'Population growth and accordingly increasing rise of requirements and demands in societies for access to water supply with appropriate quality, remarkable increase of additional water supply costs, necessity of controlling water resources from contamination and irregular utilization of surface and underground waters and the necessity of protection from them, have made water supply management encounter with serious challenges from different perspectives. In this research, a model was developed with system dynamics method using Vensim software from Wergar river basin in Abdanan, one of the Ilam province towns in west of Iran. The modeling of Wergar reservoir dam utilization and study of conditions before and after dam building was performed in this model using weather reports and also the hydrology of the Wergar river basin watershed. In this research by examining conditions before and after dam building, it was found that by building dam on this river in the suggested construction place','Drainage basin, System dynamics model, Vargar Dam, Vensim','Population growth and accordingly increasing rise of requirements and demands in societies for access to water supply with appropriate quality, remarkable increase of additional water supply costs, necessity of controlling water resources from contamination and irregular utilization of surface and underground waters and the necessity of protection from them, have made water supply management encounter with serious challenges from different perspectives. In this research, a model was developed with system dynamics method using Vensim software from Wergar river basin in Abdanan, one of the Ilam province towns in west of Iran. The modeling of Wergar reservoir dam utilization and study of conditions before and after dam building was performed in this model using weather reports and also the hydrology of the Wergar river basin watershed. In this research by examining conditions before and after dam building, it was found that by building dam on this river in the suggested construction place','One of the ways to overcome the problem of shortage of water resources and contribute to the sustainable development of water resource systems is the assessment of management policies and help in decision-making at the macro level. One of the important issues in water resource management is the evaluation and decision-making based on the total system rather than restricting a single reservoir approach which requires having an integrated vision of the mentioned system. In recent decades using various methods of analysis in the field of system simulation and in optimization has become an efficient tool in resource management which has an important role in overcoming the challenges in this field. \r\nIrregular population development, agricultural development and rapid growth in industry increase water demand every day. A part of requirements is provided by the surface water supplies\' control through dam construction. Limited controllable waters and continuously increasing needs demands bett','Ata Najafi Jilani, Mahmud Zakeri Nayeri and Arash Dalir (2015). Modeling of Vargar Dam Reservoir Operation by Using System Dynamic .Biological Forum â€“ An International Journal 7(1): 693-706 .'),(4217,'117','The Effects of Foliar Application of Urea, Calcium Nitrate and Boric Acid on Growth and Yield of Greenhouse Cucumber (cv. Khassib)','N. Nasrollahzadeh-asl, M. Delshad and A.K. Kashi','117 N NASROLLAHZADE.pdf','',1,'The present study aimed to evaluate the effect of foliar application on greenhouse cucumber (cv. Khassib) in a five-month period (from March 2007 to July 2008) in Karaj city, Iran. To achieve the yield and high quality products, foliar application in greenhouses vegetables seems necessary. For this reason the experiment was conducted based on split-split-plot design with three replications. The effects of urea fertilizer concentration (3 g/L), calcium nitrate concentration (10 g/L) and boric acid concentration (0.5 g/L) on quality and quantity of greenhouse cucumber, including fruit yield, yield of grade 1 fruit, number of fruit, percentage of grade 1 fruit, plant length, percentage of leaf dray matter, and leaf weight ratio (LWR) were studied. Results indicated that among the main effects, treatment calcium nitrate had the most influence on the large number of traits. Also, among two-way interactions, treatment U1B1induced the most effect on yield of grade 1 fruit as well as for three','Greenhouse cucumber, Foliar nutrition, Urea, Calcium nitrate, Boric acid','According to the findings of the present study the following factors can be concluded:\r\n1. Among the main effects, calcium nitrate played the eminent role on most traits, after that boric acid and finally urea carried this role. \r\n2. Among two-way interaction, only U1B1, as foliar application, significantly affected the yield of grade 1 fruit. \r\n3. Among three-way interactions, only U1C0B0, as foliar application, significantly affected the yield of grade 1 fruit, total fruit and the number of fruit. \r\n4. There was no a significant change on qualitative features of cucumber using nutrition compared to fosamko. Hence, cucumber production can be performed by cheaper methods with no change in qualitative characteristics. Finally, due to the fact that cucumber is one of the most important vegetables in Iran, it is suggested that various studies with different fertilizers will be conducted on cucumber. \r\n','Cucumis sativus L. is one of the most important and consuming vegetables, fourth one, after cucurbits, tomatoes, onions and cabbage (Crosby, 2008.). Cucumber is the second crop, after watermelon, of cucurbit family that is widely cultivated in the Middle East. Four countries including China, Iran, Turkey and the U.S. currently have been producing 23.2 million tons that cover 66 % of global production (Paivast, 2005). Using the controlled and greenhouse cultivation is one of the most appropriate methods to increase production per unit area. In this method, controlling the effective factors of production such as plant nutrition is the important factor to achieve high performance. Besides the accuracy applied in nutritional regulation of plant roots (both in soil and hypothermic environments), in many cases, foliar nutrition is considered by breeder of greenhouse productions (Tollaee, 2002). Rapid uptake of nutrients and no influence of pH and soil texture as well as providing cations suc','N. Nasrollahzadeh-asl, M. Delshad and A.K. Kashi (2015). The Effects of Foliar Application of Urea, Calcium Nitrate and Boric Acid on Growth and Yield of Greenhouse Cucumber (cv. Khassib) . Biological Forum â€“ An International Journal 7(1): 712-7'),(4218,'117','Monitoring of Cereal rusts in Georgia in 2009-2013','Z. Sikharulidze, K. Natsarishvili, R. Dumbadze, L. Mgeladze and T. Tsetskhladze','118 DR Z. SIKHARULIDZE.pdf','',1,'Extensive surveys were undertaken throughout six geographic zones of Georgia during 2009-2013. Visual inspections were made in farm fields, roadsides and breeding stations. Except for 2012 the cropping seasons 2009-2013 in Georgia were favorable for yellow rust development. Stripe rust occurred in 79% of the fields surveyed. Severe epidemics (>40% severity) occurred in the May and early June in 2009 and 2010. Incidence and severity levels of yellow rust in 2011-2013 were much lower than in previous years. Trace of yellow rust was observed in 2012 due to drought and hot dry weather in early spring. Wheat stem rust and leaf rust were found in 55% and 59% of the fields observed, respectively. The mean incidence of leaf rust ranged from 0.3% to 17.2%. Stem rust occurred with low intensity in the majority observed locations except Meskheti and Javakheti zones. Its overall mean incidence varied from 1% to 16.5%;','wheat, barley, rusts, incidence, severity','Extensive surveys were undertaken throughout six geographic zones of Georgia during 2009-2013. Visual inspections were made in farm fields, roadsides and breeding stations. Except for 2012 the cropping seasons 2009-2013 in Georgia were favorable for yellow rust development. Stripe rust occurred in 79% of the fields surveyed. Severe epidemics (>40% severity) occurred in the May and early June in 2009 and 2010. Incidence and severity levels of yellow rust in 2011-2013 were much lower than in previous years. Trace of yellow rust was observed in 2012 due to drought and hot dry weather in early spring. Wheat stem rust and leaf rust were found in 55% and 59% of the fields observed, respectively. The mean incidence of leaf rust ranged from 0.3% to 17.2%. Stem rust occurred with low intensity in the majority observed locations except Meskheti and Javakheti zones. Its overall mean incidence varied from 1% to 16.5%;','It is known, that Georgia is a country of origin of cereals. At the same time it is distinguished by a diversity of a number of unique endemic species and old local varieties. However, cereal sowing areas have significantly reduced (from 400 to 50 thousand ha) after the collapse of the Soviet Union. The diversity of geographic zones in Georgia and co-evolution of the crop and its pathogens have created ideal conditions for diversification of plant pathogens. Partly for this reason, and partly because of the ravages of the economic difficulties over the past 20 years, the output of almost all traditional agricultural crops in Georgia is severely depressed. The average yield of cereals has been rather low, about 1.5 ton/ha.\r\nAmong the wide spectrum of cereal diseases causing significant yield losses, the rusts are the most important. The rusts of cereals (Puccinia graminis f.sp. tritici, Puccinia triticina f.sp. tritici, Puccinia striiformiis f.sp. tritici, Puccinia coronata f.sp. avenae','Z. Sikharulidze, K. Natsarishvili, R. Dumbadze, L. Mgeladze and T. Tsetskhladze (2015). Monitoring of Cereal rusts in Georgia in 2009-2013. Biological Forum â€“ An International Journal 7(1): 721-725.'),(4219,'117','Evaluating Economical - Social effects of National-Regional Drainage Project of Sistan Plain','Mortaza Tavakoli and Rahele Podineh Pir','119 RAHELE PODINEH PIR @ ALIREZA SHOBHKHIZI.pdf','',1,'There are challenges in Sistan area such as: Blowing 120 days winds, Moving fluid sands, multiple and continuous droughts, existing canal, fine grained and impermeable soil, so much evaporation and transpiration (natural environment). Sistan due to geographical isolation of relative situation and being located in Androeic environment has been not only part of the less developed deprived areas of the country and its residents whether urban or rural have faced continuously with many socioeconomic problems, and they have faced with phenomena such as: dry weather, periodical drought, dehydration and sometimes heavy floods in environmental dimensions. Actually, Hirmand river flowing from south to north, is divided in two branches. The first branch is sistan river which flows from east to west and it\'s flowing across the plain and finally it\'s ended in Hirmand plain. The second branch which is the Safla part of Hirmand, it\'s flowing from south to north and it\'s drained to Pouzak plain as Par','Evaluation, Economical - Social effects, National-regional Drainage Project of Sistan Plain.','There are challenges in Sistan area such as: Blowing 120 days winds, Moving fluid sands, multiple and continuous droughts, existing canal, fine grained and impermeable soil, so much evaporation and transpiration (natural environment). Sistan due to geographical isolation of relative situation and being located in Androeic environment has been not only part of the less developed deprived areas of the country and its residents whether urban or rural have faced continuously with many socioeconomic problems, and they have faced with phenomena such as: dry weather, periodical drought, dehydration and sometimes heavy floods in environmental dimensions. Actually, Hirmand river flowing from south to north, is divided in two branches. The first branch is sistan river which flows from east to west and it\'s flowing across the plain and finally it\'s ended in Hirmand plain. The second branch which is the Safla part of Hirmand, it\'s flowing from south to north and it\'s drained to Pouzak plain as Par','Each rural residence is composed of different economic, social, cultural and political arenas which each one represents one of social life aspects. So, the rural space includes a certain structure with respect to environmental and ecologic features and its socioeconomic characteristics which represents its fundamental capabilities and potential talents (Saeidi, 1998). Villages due to favorable conditions in cultivating and meeting basic needs of societies, require underlying planning and attention to achieve constant development, drought and its challenges are one of factors which causes inconstancy in rural societies (Pour Taheri et al. 2009). Today, by considering local and native resources, necessity of attention to official and nonofficial experts\' views and their role in national-regional projects, seems evitable to achieve development. Spontaneous and endogenous development necessitates in all processes of national-regional plans and projects and constructive and rural developmen','Mortaza Tavakoli and Rahele Podineh Pir (2015).Evaluating Economical - Social effects of National-Regional Drainage Project of Sistan Plain .Biological Forum â€“ An International Journal 7(1): 726-731 .'),(4220,'117','Investigation of the Effects of Growth Regulators on Callus Induction in Taxus baccata L.','Barat Ali Fakheri, Nafiseh Mahdinejad and Sina Ghanbari','120 SINA GHANBARI.pdf','',1,'Taxus baccata is classified as a conifer in the order Pinales, family Taxaceae and genus Taxus. The leaves are thin and long, with spiral arrangement, upper surface of the lamina is dark green and glossy but the lower surface is light green. In recent years, plant tissue culture techniques has become a powerful tool for the propagation of many plant species. In this research weight of callus was analyzed to determination of appropriate medium culture. This study was performed in randomized design with three replicated in 2014. The MS medium culture was containing NAA and Kin hormones. ANOVA showed a significant difference at 1% probability level. Maximum callus weight belongs to 0.25 mg/l Kinetin and 2 mg/l NAA. Therefore, hormones amount used in this research can induce callus in Taxus baccata.','Taxus (Taxus baccata), Callus, Kinetin, NAA','Taxus baccata is classified as a conifer in the order Pinales, family Taxaceae and genus Taxus. The leaves are thin and long, with spiral arrangement, upper surface of the lamina is dark green and glossy but the lower surface is light green. In recent years, plant tissue culture techniques has become a powerful tool for the propagation of many plant species. In this research weight of callus was analyzed to determination of appropriate medium culture. This study was performed in randomized design with three replicated in 2014. The MS medium culture was containing NAA and Kin hormones. ANOVA showed a significant difference at 1% probability level. Maximum callus weight belongs to 0.25 mg/l Kinetin and 2 mg/l NAA. Therefore, hormones amount used in this research can induce callus in Taxus baccata.','Taxus baccata is classified as a conifer in the order Pinales, family Taxaceae and genus Taxus. Three species of genus Taxus are found in Iran of which only T. baccatais native (Yazdani et al, 2005). T. baccata is an evergreen species with high longevity, slow growth, straight stem and Sinusoidal profile and may reach the height of 30m and the diameter of 2.5m (in Siyahkal) (Ahmadi et al, 2011, Poorbabaei et al, 1998). Its crown is extended and semi-spherical. The bark is scaly, laminated and reddish brown. The leaves are thin and long, with spiral arrangement, upper surface of the lamina is dark green and glossy but the lower surface is light green. Flowers are without petal and sepal and appear as female and male on separate female and male trees. Its fruit is called aril and is berry-like, red, sweet and edible. Its annual height growth has been estimated about 10cm and annual diameter growth is about 0.5mm (0.64mm of average annual diameter growth) (Lessani 1999, Danehkar and Mahmo','Barat Ali Fakheri, Nafiseh Mahdinejad and Sina Ghanbari (2015). Investigation of the Effects of Growth Regulators on Callus Induction in Taxus baccata L.Biological Forum â€“ An International Journal 7(1): 732-735 .'),(4221,'117','The Effect of Different Salinities on Density of Spirulina plaetensis under Laboratory Conditions','Esmaeil Kouhgardi, Elham Moazami, Reza Ghorbani-Vaghei and Tirdad Maghsoudloo','121 ESMAEIL KOUHGARDI.pdf','',1,'This research conducted with five treatments of salinity of 15, 20, 25, 30 and 35 ppt on culture of S. plaetensis. Comparing the average of density of the species under treatments revealed that the least density is at salinity of 35 ppt. A significance difference was at the level of 5% comparing to other treatments. The most density was obtained in treatment of 15 ppt. The most cellular density was for 15, 20 and 25 ppt and salinities of 30 and 35 ppt rated 4th and fifth respectively. Relying on above statements, one may come up with this conclusion that cellular density of S. plaetensis is less in lower salinities than that of higher salinities. Upon raise of degree of salinity, growth of the species shall decrease. In other words, in its natural habitation, this species tolerate higher salinity. However, the nature of the species is more compatible with lower salinity. ','Spirulina plaetensis, Cellular Density, Salinity, Nature of Species','This research conducted with five treatments of salinity of 15, 20, 25, 30 and 35 ppt on culture of S. plaetensis. Comparing the average of density of the species under treatments revealed that the least density is at salinity of 35 ppt. A significance difference was at the level of 5% comparing to other treatments. The most density was obtained in treatment of 15 ppt. The most cellular density was for 15, 20 and 25 ppt and salinities of 30 and 35 ppt rated 4th and fifth respectively. Relying on above statements, one may come up with this conclusion that cellular density of S. plaetensis is less in lower salinities than that of higher salinities. Upon raise of degree of salinity, growth of the species shall decrease. In other words, in its natural habitation, this species tolerate higher salinity. However, the nature of the species is more compatible with lower salinity. ','Microalgae are the species that are capable of producing valuable metabolites such as pigments, proteins and vitamins for edible additives, medical products and other goals. From among these microalgae, one may name Spirulina plaetensis which is one of the most prominent species of alga that has been studied in biotechnology. Thanks to easiness of growth of species, its drying process, and due to its high protein ingredient up to 70%, specific pigment especially the blue one named Phicociyanin, fatty acids such as Linolenic acid, B12 vitamin and minerals, the species has received great attention all over the world [3]. Further to success of Spirulina in aquatic farming and poultry feeding, pH and temperature are among the key elements involved in farming the said kind of alga in large scale. The optimized temperature for farming Spirulina is 35-38 degrees centigrade. Further to the required pH for S.plaetensis is given as 9.1-9.5 that effectively prevents contamination of most algae wh','Esmaeil Kouhgardi, Elham Moazami, Reza Ghorbani-Vaghei and Tirdad Maghsoudloo (2015). The Effect of Different Salinities on Density of Spirulina plaetensis under Laboratory Conditions .Biological Forum â€“ An International Journal 7(1): 736-740 .'),(4222,'117','Synthesis of 2-R 5-oxo5-H6- N-ethylcarboxamide7-phenyl-[1,3,4]thiadiazolo-[3,2-a]pyrimidine and 2-R 5-oxo5-H6- N-methylcarboxamide 7-phenyl-[1,3,4]thiadiazolo-[3,2-a]pyrimidine and Biological properties','Reza Moradivalikboni, Zabialah Heidarnezhad, Heshmatollah Alinezhad, Sahar Mohseni Tavakkoli and Fatemeh Heidarnezhad','122 ZABIALAH HEIDARNEZHAD.pdf','',1,'In this paperexplain preparation of 2-R 5-oxo5-H6-N-ethylcarboxamide 7-phenyl1,3,4-thiadiazolo-[3,2-a] pyrimidine and 2-R 5-oxo 5-H 6 -N-methyl carboxamide 7-phenyl 1,3,4-thiadiazolo-[3,2-a] pyrimidine through reaction of 2-R 5-Oxo5-H 6- ethylcarboxilate 7 - phenyl -1, 3,4 -thiadiazolo-[3,2-a] pyrimidine with N-ethylamine and N-methylamine. Interest in the synthesis of pyrimidine derivatives is due to their biological activities. These compounds have many medicinal properties and are used in allergy.','Pyrimidine, N-ethylcarboxamide-N-methylcarboxamide, Medicinal properties, Synthesis, Spectroscopy','In the present work, we design and discover a new class of2- R 5-oxo 5-H 6- N-methylcarboxamide7-phenyl -1,3,4-thiadiazolo [3,2-a] pyrimidine and 2- R 5-oxo 5-H 6-N-ethylcarboxamide7-phenyl -1,3,4-thiadiazolo [3,2-a] pyrimidine. The preliminary results showed that most of this synthesis ,variousalcohol have been employed as a mild and highly efficient solvent system for the convenient preparation of 2-R 5-oxo 5-H 6- N-methylcarboxamide7-phenyl -1,3,4-thiadiazolo [3,2-a] pyrimidine and 2-R 5-oxo 5-H 6-N-ethylcarboxamide7-phenyl -1,3,4-thiadiazolo [3,2-a] pyrimidine in excellent yields from 2-R 5-Oxo 5-H 6-ethylcarboxylate 7-phenyl 1,3,4- thiadiazolo-[3,2-a]-pyrimidine and N-ethylaminand N-methylamin. The advantages include low cost, mild reaction conditions and with excellent yields.\r\nThe antimicrobial activity of 2-R5-Oxo 5-H 6-Amide derivatives7-phenyl 1,3,4- thiadiazolo- [3,2-a]- pyrimidine ( 1-16) was studied with respect to a series of test microbes.\r\n','Condensed derivatives of 1,3,4-thiadiazolo-[3,2-a]pyrimidine were reported to possess a broadspectrum of biological activity [1â€“4], including antibacterial, antitumor, fungicidal, and herbicidal properties. However, thiadiazoles and their condensed analogs are still insufficiently studied. In continuation of the search for substances possessing increased ability to permeate through biological membranes of various infectious species [5â€“7] and, in particular, for the new antibacterial drugs in these homologousseries of compounds.\r\n1,3,4-thiadiazolo [3,2-a] pyrimidine system efficientlyenhances the physiological activity of the molecule[ 8-10]. \r\nThis replacement occurs in the reactions of 1,3,4-thiadiazolo [3,2-a] pyrimidine derivatives with electrophiles [11,12].at position 6 of the\r\nLiterature data on fused heterocycles with a thiadiazolo-[3,2-a] pyrimidine system anrelated with anotherring are scarce. These include 1,3,4-thiadiazolo -[2,3 -b] quinozalines,[13-15] pyrazolo[3 ,4-e]1','Reza Moradivalikboni, Zabialah Heidarnezhad, Heshmatollah Alinezhad, Sahar Mohseni Tavakkoli and Fatemeh Heidarnezhad (2015).Synthesis of 2-R 5-oxo5-H6- N-ethylcarboxamide7-phenyl-[1,3,4]thiadiazolo-[3,2-a]pyrimidine and 2-R 5-oxo5-H6- N-methylcarboxamid'),(4223,'117','A Review of Medicinal plants of Kohgiluyeh-va-Boyerahmad province from Iran due to employment creation and permanent development','Abdolmohammad Mohammadi','123 ABDOLMOHAMMAD MOHAMMADI.pdf','',1,'Pastureland products, medicinal plants and industrial plants have an important role in internal economic, also they have significant effect on non-oil exports. These days all developed countries use herbal product and this rate are increasing in the word. Because of this point and variety in weather of our country that causes many of these plants grow in it, so it gets a special opportunity in this field, thus we should use of this chance in best way and increase our presence in the world markets more and more, both pharmacy, food industry and cosmetic. Iran by its special weather situations have placed more than 7500 kinds of plant in it, that this amount is two our tree times more than biodiversity in whole of the Europe continent but there are more than 800 species of herbal plant in Iran, that about 400 species its placed in an area less than 1% of the whole country in Kohgiluyeh-va-Boyerahmad. The most important medicinal plants are including of: Thymus daenensis, Salvia sclarea, ','-','Pastureland products, medicinal plants and industrial plants have an important role in internal economic, also they have significant effect on non-oil exports. These days all developed countries use herbal product and this rate are increasing in the word. Because of this point and variety in weather of our country that causes many of these plants grow in it, so it gets a special opportunity in this field, thus we should use of this chance in best way and increase our presence in the world markets more and more, both pharmacy, food industry and cosmetic. Iran by its special weather situations have placed more than 7500 kinds of plant in it, that this amount is two our tree times more than biodiversity in whole of the Europe continent but there are more than 800 species of herbal plant in Iran, that about 400 species its placed in an area less than 1% of the whole country in Kohgiluyeh-va-Boyerahmad. The most important medicinal plants are including of: Thymus daenensis, Salvia sclarea, ','A. Commercial situations of Medicinal plants in the world:\r\nMedicinal plants have important and valuable role in preparation of societiesâ€™ health and sanitary both treatment and prevention of diseases. This part of natural resources has a long antiquity in human life, also it have prepared human food and medicine resources in generations. Based on historical view, medicinal plants cause to societies development and lot of researches have done in this field (Rahiminiya, 2009). Because of disadvantage and destructive effects of chemical drugs, people in recent year tend to use herbal treatment and drugs. Chemical effects will destroy earth too and causes environmental pollutions (Samsamshariat, 1992). This world is for production, exportation, valuable development and the best of economy. Powerful economy can change politics, too. Some important indexes for evaluating a plant are medicinal worth, supply and demand. More than 60% of German and Belgian, 74% of English tend to use natural','Abdolmohammad Mohammadi (2015). A Review of Medicinal plants of Kohgiluyeh-va-Boyerahmad province from Iran due to employment creation and permanent development .Biological Forum â€“ An International Journal 7(1): 749-751 .'),(4224,'117','Behavioral Assessment of Karaj Dam Using Instrumentation Data','Edris Merufinia, Mohammad H. Aminfar, Gholam Moradi and Aref Azizian','124 EDRIS MERUFINIA.pdf','',1,'One of the many uses of applying Instrumentation and monitoring dams and concrete dams in particular is using their results in order to expand our knowledge of the real behavior of the dams. In other words, each dam can be considered a major experimental model that can properly answer lot of questions about the performance of the dam and foundation against real forces, both fixed and variable forces. However, with the passage of time, there will be changes in the behavior of the dam, foundation and abutments due to fixed and variable tensions; the only way to be informed of these changes is recording the dams\' behavior in various stages of construction and operation. Using the Instrumentation and monitoring can make the real situation of stability assessment possible based on the existing realities and recorded responses of the rock mass and structure. Using the results of monitoring and study of the changes of instrumentation data in many cases it is possible to discover the phenomeno','Direct pendulum, Embankment Dams, Instrumentation, Pneumatic piezometers','One of the many uses of applying Instrumentation and monitoring dams and concrete dams in particular is using their results in order to expand our knowledge of the real behavior of the dams. In other words, each dam can be considered a major experimental model that can properly answer lot of questions about the performance of the dam and foundation against real forces, both fixed and variable forces. However, with the passage of time, there will be changes in the behavior of the dam, foundation and abutments due to fixed and variable tensions; the only way to be informed of these changes is recording the dams\' behavior in various stages of construction and operation. Using the Instrumentation and monitoring can make the real situation of stability assessment possible based on the existing realities and recorded responses of the rock mass and structure. Using the results of monitoring and study of the changes of instrumentation data in many cases it is possible to discover the phenomeno','Dam construction projects are among the most important and costliest major construction projects. Due to economics, water resources, agriculture, energy production and job creation reasons, dams are of outmost importance. However, geotechnical, hydrological, meteorological and other unknown parameters constantly threaten the stability and safety of dams. Therefore, monitoring is a step towards identifying the problems the dams are facing with and taking reasonable and right measures to maintain the stability and safety of them (Seraj, 2010).\r\nUnlike concrete gravity dams that only has cantilever performance; concrete arch dams have both arch and cantilever performances and can transfer the loads to the side using arch function and eventually to the foundation according to the cantilever function. Therefore concrete arch dams with less thickness are able to withstand far more loads than concrete gravity dams. Due to the designing and operation complexity of concrete arch dams, monitorin','Edris Merufinia, Mohammad H. Aminfar, Gholam Moradi and Aref Azizian (2015). Behavioral Assessment of Karaj Dam Using Instrumentation Data . Biological Forum â€“ An International Journal 7(1): 752-760.'),(4225,'117','Size Frequency Distribution Pattern of a Mugilid species, Mugil incilis of the family Mugilidae Collected from the Indus river of District Sukkur, Pakistan','Qudsia Jahangir, Aqalmina Achakzai and Zubia Masood','125 ZUBIA MASOOD, QUDSIA JAHANGIR, AQALMINA ACHAKZAI.pdf','',1,'A total of 128 samples of a mugilid species, Mugil incilis, commonly known as â€œparassi mulletâ€ were collected from the landing sites on Indus River of district Sukkur, province Sindh. During the study, maximum size of Mugil incilis was recorded as 125 to 145mm for combined sexes, of which males were ranged from 125 to 143mm, and that of females were found to be in ranged from 130 to 145mm in total length (TL), respectively. The overall result of the present study revealed that most individuals of Mugil incilis were abundant in small size groups (>140 mm TL) which shows that habitat conditions and water quality of river Indus were not suitable for this species. Thus, Size frequency distribution is a fundamental management mechanism used in fisheries that could be applied to estimate health condition of fish, its habitat and water qualities of environment. Furthermore, though some studies had been done in the other aspects of this mugilid species throughout the Pakistan, however, it ','Mugil incilis, Size frequency distribution, River Indus.','The present study was carried out to observe and analyze the size frequency distribution pattern of Mugil incilus categorized into male, female and combined sexes. Body length of any fish species is an important parameter for the determination of growth, age as well as the conditions of their habitats (Zubia and Rehana, 2010; Naeem et al., 2011). From the above study, we have tried to highlight the baseline information on the Mugil incilus species regarding to this parameter. As most specimens were recorded in small size groups below the length 140 mm in TL, therefore, our study was clearly shows that habitat conditions and water quality for this species were not good in river, as size frequency distribution data of Mugil incilus species of Indus river did not show healthy population, thus, steps should be taken along this area in order to provides protection to the populations of this mugilid species.',', 1978). No previous records on size frequency distribution pattern of Mugil incilus of this study could be traced from the literature. However, few authors had mentioned its maximum size 40.0 cm in total length (TL) as determined by Thomson (1978), while the most common length recorded for this species was 25.0 cm in TL in Northern Coast of South America (CervigÃ³n et al., 1992). The total catch samples collected in the present study ranging from 125 to145mm in total length (TL) for the combined sexes of M. incilis. In the present study, both males and females of the M. incilis was most frequently observed in smaller size groups, because their highest frequency percentage i.e., 55.6% and 35.7% were recorded for the same size groups i.e., 130-134mm, whereas the lowest frequency percentage were recorded for the large size groups, as shown in Tables 2-3). In male, lowest frequency percentage (10%) was noted for the size groups of 135-149mm, respectively. Similarly, In case of combined ','Qudsia Jahangir, Aqalmina Achakzai and Zubia Masood (2015). Size Frequency Distribution Pattern of a Mugilid species, Mugil incilis of the family Mugilidae Collected from the Indus river of District Sukkur, Pakistan .Biological Forum â€“ An International '),(4226,'117','Study of some Morphometric and Meristic Characters of a Parassi mullet, Mugil incilis (Mugilidae: Mugiliformes) from the Indus River at Sukkur District of province Sindh, Pakistan','Wajeeha Razzaq, Farhat Iqbal, Zubia Masood and Masooma Khawar','126 ZUBIA MASOOD, WAJEEHA RAZZAQ, FARHAT IQBAL AND MASOOMA KHAWAR.pdf','',1,'A study was conducted to analyze morphological characteristics of a mugilid species, Mugil incilis collected from the landing sites on Indus River of district Sukkur, province Sindh during the period from August 2014 to December 2014. These fishes are commonly known as â€œparassi mulletâ€. A total of 80 samples of this species were collected which includes 42 male and 38 female fishes respectively. About twelve morphometric and two meristic characteristics were selected for this study. No significant variations (t-test p>0.05) were observed among the male and female members of the populations of this species except the first dorsal (DF1) and pelvic fin (PelFH) that shows significant (t-test; p<0.05) variation in their heights. As morphometric and meristic characters have key importance in the systematic classification of fishes, hence, these two characters had been found to helpful in observing the phenotypic variation among the male and female populations of this species.','Mugilidae, Parassi mullet (Mugil incilis), morphometric and meristic characters','The lack of similarity in the morphologic outcome of mullet species suggests us to analyze the present status of mugilid species by inclusive an alysisvia molecular genetics and morphologic markers together. Hence, from the results of our present study, it was concluded that we had not noticed any obvious amount of morphologic demarcation among morphometric and meristic differences among the male and female populations of Mugil incilus in river Indus of district Sukkar, Pakistan.','Fishes which belong to the Mugilidae family are commonly called as â€œmulletsâ€ or â€œgrey mulletsâ€. They are actinopterygian fishes and occupy temperate and tropical seas along with brackish and coastal marine ecosystems (Thomson 1997, Nelson 2006). As they can tolerate a broad range of salinities, therefore, they are found in all types of aquatic environments. They migrate from fresh water to marine water, the adolescent life prior to adulthood remain chiefly in lakes and rivers (Lee and Tamaru, 1988; El-Deeb et al., 1996). Due to the economic importance of mullets, vast studies were carried out on different aspects of these mullet fishes by the several workers throughout the world, such as, IbÃ¡Ã±ez and Gallardo-Cabello (1996), IbÃ¡Ã±ez et al. (1999), GonzÃ¡lez-Castro et al. (2009) and Kendall et al. (2009). \r\nMugil incilis belongs to the family Mugilidae is most commonly named as â€œparassi mulletâ€. Species like Mugil incilis, Cathorops spixii and Eugerresplumier had been con','Wajeeha Razzaq, Farhat Iqbal, Zubia Masood and Masooma Khawar (2015). Study of some Morphometric and Meristic Characters of a Parassi mullet, Mugil incilis (Mugilidae: Mugiliformes) from the Indus River at Sukkur District of province Sindh, Pakistan . Bio'),(4227,'117','Effect of Organic and Chemical Fertilizers on Dry Yield, Essential Oil and Compounds on Rosemary (Rosemarinus officinalis L.)','Seyede Roghaye Hosseini Valiki, Sobhanall Ghanbari, Mohammad Akbarzadeh, Majid Ghasempor Alamdari and Sajedeh Golmohammadzadeh','127 SEYEDE ROGHAYE HOSSEINI VALIKI.pdf','',1,'In order to examined the effect of manure and chemical fertilizers on the some agronomic characteristics, yield and the essential oil of rosemary. The experiment was carried out as randomized complete design with 9 treatments at 4 replications in Sari, 2013. Treatments were included witness (control), sheep and vermin-compost fertilizers and chemical fertilizers of nitrogen and phosphorus at 6 different amounts which were N150-P150, N150-P200, N150-P250, N200-P150, N200-P200 and N200-P250. The results showed that sheep manure had the highest dried yield (1344kg/ha), essential oil (3.72%) and essential oil yield (50 liters per hectare) that increased 2, 2.4 and 4.5times compared to the controls. In general, sheep manure compared to vermicompost and other chemical treatments increased the dry yield, essential oil yield and type and percentage of ingredients of Rosemary on local climatic condition of experimental site. ','Rosemary, Manure and chemical fertilizer, Yield and Essence','All treatments were applied (organic and chemical fertilizers) had statistically significant at the 1% difference on all tested traits such as dry yield, essential oil and type and amount of compound of the essential oil compared to the control. Organic fertilizers are used in this experiment increased all studied traits statistically compared to chemical fertilizers, so that the average dry yield, essential oil, essential oil yield and the average percentage of the major compounds of the essential oil increased by organic fertilizers, respectively, 20, 42, 75 and 17 to 51 percent compared to chemical fertilizers. Among the organic fertilizers, sheep manure had the highest dry yield (1344 kg ha), essential oil (3.72%) and essential oil yield (50.07 liters) compared to the controls increased 2, 2.4 and 4.5 higher. Among the compound of the essential oil, Alpha-Pinene with 27.18% gad the highest level and obtained by sheep manure treatment. Also this treatment increased 4 types of major ','Today, due to adverse effects of medication, the general approach to use of herbal medicines is increasing (Hecl & Sustrikova, 2006). Studies on medicinal plants in natural ecosystems and agricultural suggest that using sustainable farming system for adaptation to natural conditions and product quality, provide the best conditions for the production of plants and most active ingredient produce in such circumstances (Sharifi-Ashurabadi et al, 2002).For this reason global approach is to the production of medicinal plants, sustainable farming systems and their management techniques. One of the most important management techniques, increase the use of organic fertilizers and reducing chemical inputs in soils, especially in arable land under cultivation of medicinal plants. Sheep manure and vermicompost of organic fertilizers, due to characteristics such as high porosity, absorption and storage of mineral elements and their gradual liberalization, the water-holding capacity, growth and qual','Seyede Roghaye Hosseini Valiki, Sobhanall Ghanbari, Mohammad Akbarzadeh, Majid Ghasempor Alamdari and Sajedeh Golmohammadzadeh (2015). Effect of Organic and Chemical Fertilizers on Dry Yield, Essential Oil and Compounds on Rosemary (Rosemarinus officinali'),(4228,'117','Application of Comparative Remote Sensing Techniques for Monitoring Mangroves in Indus Delta, Sindh, Pakistan','Hina Masood, Sheeba Afsar, Umair Bin Zamir and Jamil Hassan Kazmi','128 HINA MASOOD.pdf','',1,'The Pakistan coastline has five noteworthy sites that are blessed with mangroves in which, Indus Delta contains the most extensive mangroves area and rank as the largest arid climate mangrove in the world. Due to an urgent demand for conservation and restoration purposes, retrieving up-to-date information about the extent and condition of mangrove ecosystem is essential for management and decision making process.\r\nThis study aimed to assess the present extent of mangrove forest and their distribution along the Indus Delta and provide the up-to date mangroves forest cover assessment, and detecting the changes in between 2009 and 2014. Landsat 5 Thematic Mapper (TM) and 8 Operational Land Imager (OLI) data were used for mangroves mapping as well as a comparison of pixel based Supervised classification and on screen digitization techniques for delineation of land cover.\r\nThe supervised classification and onscreen digitization results showed that total area of mangrove cover was 946.52 km2','Mangrove, pixel based supervised classification, onscreen digitization, Land cover.','This study assess the spatio-temporal distribution of mangrove forest of Indus Delta and also compared the pixel based and on screen digitization techniques. On screen Digitizationis dependent on the operator knowledge about the area. It is obviously a very time-consuming and laborious work when compared to the automated approach, particularly for classifications at a broader scale. However this technique shows difficulties when applied to time series images to reproduce an equivalent level of detail between different types of cover. Using Landsat data for on screen digitization it was found that small area/ scattered mangroves was not digitized properly although on screen digitization requires good spatial resolution in order to get the appropriate result. The maps generated from on-screen interpretation have a smooth appearance whereas the maps derived from pixel based approach have some salt and pepper\' appearance. Supervised classification depends on the prior knowledge, and skill ','Mangroves are evergreen forests that are found along the coast of tropics and subtropics intertidal regions (Tomlinson, 1986; Hamilton and Snedaker, 1984; Chapman, 1976; Dahdouh-Guebas, 2002). Mangroves provide important ecological and socio-economic functions to coastal communities. The present extent has been estimated about 137,760 km2 in 118 countries and territories of the world (Giri et al., 2010). They provide important forest products such as wood, medicines, fuel-wood and fodder (Lee and Yeh, 2009).These forests also serve several important functions, such as the maintenance of coastal water quality, reduction in severity of storm, wave and flood damage, protect shorelines from erosion, and provide nursery and feeding areas for many species of fish and crustaceans (Kuenzer et al., 2011). Pakistan has 1050 km long coastline, 350 km of Sindh and 700 km of Balochistan. The arid subtropical coastline has five different sites of mangrove include Mianihor, Kalmatkhor, Gawatar bay, s','Hina Masood, Sheeba Afsar, Umair Bin Zamir and Jamil Hassan Kazmi (2015). Application of Comparative Remote Sensing Techniques for Monitoring Mangroves in Indus Delta, Sindh, Pakistan .Biological Forum â€“ An International Journal 7(1): 783-792 .'),(4229,'117','Length-Weight Relationship, Condition and Relative Condition parameters of Mugilincilus (Mugilidae: Mugiliformes) collected from the River Indus of district Sukkur, Pakistan','Masooma Khawar, Rizwana Kalsoom, Zubia Masood, Zaigham Hasan, Farhat Iqbal, Wajeeha Razzaq and Hameed-Ur-Rehman\r\n','129 ZUBIA MSOOD 1 @ Masooma.pdf','',1,'Length-weight relationship, condition (K) and relative condition factor (Kn) for male, female and combined sexes of a mugilid species, Mugil incilis were analyzed during the period from January 2014 to December 2014. During the study, a total of 80 fish samples were collected from the landing sites on Indus River at district Sukkur that included 48 males and 32 females. All specimens were ranging from 12.0cm to 14.5cm in total length (TL) and 23.2g to 38.5g in body weight (BW). While total length of males ranged from 12.4cm to 14.4cm and body weight 23.2g to 38.1g and femaleâ€™s total length ranged from 12.0cm to14.4cm and body weight 25.1g to 38.5g. The result of the present study revealed that a moderate correlation (r>0.60, t-test; p<0.05) occurred between the length and weight of this species which was found to be significant. The negative allometric growth pattern (b<3.0) was observed and was found to be highly significant (t-test; p<0.05) for male, female and for combined sexes. ','Length-weight relationship, Condition factor, Relative condition factor, Mullet species (Mugil incilis).','The study of length-weight relationships for the male, female and for both sexes combinly of the species Mugil incilus revealed negative allometric pattern of growth (b < 3.0). While the Kn value was equal to the expected or standard value (Kn = 1) which shows this species was in good environmental conditions in River Indus. \r\nHence, the analysis of length-weight relationship (LWRs), condition and relative conditions factors proved to be very helpful tools in the research of fisheries that later could be used in fisheries biology, fisheries management, estimation of heath condition and growth pattern of fish and assessment of fish stock (Gomiero and Braga, 2003; Froese, 2006; Gomiero et al., 2008; Zubia et al., 2014). The relative condition factor (Kn) gives idea about fishâ€™s physiological status and is also useful to compare feeding, climate and other condition of a fish (Le-Cren, 1951; Lizama and Ambrosio, 2002).\r\n','Fishes of the family Mugilidae are commonly named as â€œmulletsâ€ or â€œgrey mulletsâ€. There are 18 genera and 81 species included in this family according to Nelson (2006) and Froese and Pauly (2011). This family is commonly found in marine water but few species live in fresh water as well. In Pakistan, about 3 genera and 12 species were described by Bianchi (1985), while Fehmida (2002) had reported 8 species of this family from Karachicoast. A mugilid species, Mugil incilis of the family Mugilidae is commonly known as â€œparassi mulletâ€. Zubia and Rehana (2010 & 2011) studied length-weight relationships (LWRs) and condition factor (K) of different species of the families i.e. Lutjanidae and Gobidae on Karachi coast. Hadi et al. (2011) worked on length-weight relationships (LWRs), condition factor (K) and relative weight of different species such as Argyrops spinifer, Epinephelus coioides, Pomadasys kaakan, Lethrinus nebulosus, Lutjanus malabaricus at Northern Persian Gulf, and t','Masooma Khawar, Rizwana Kalsoom, Zubia Masood, Zaigham Hasan, Farhat Iqbal, Wajeeha Razzaq and Hameed-Ur-Rehman (2015).Length-Weight Relationship, Condition and Relative Condition parameters of Mugilincilus (Mugilidae: Mugiliformes) collected from the Riv'),(4230,'117','Effect of Millet and Peanut Intercropping on Efficiency of Use the Environmental Resource and Soil Fertility','Khamar Zahra, Dahmardeh Mehdi and Khammari Issa','130 KHAMAR ZAHRA, DAHMARDEH MEHDI AND KHAMMARI ISSA.pdf','',1,'Order to study the effect of density, the control weed and various proportions Millet (Panicum miliaceum) and peanut (Arachis hypogaea L.) intercropping an experiment was conducted in 2012 in Research station of agriculture, University of Zabol. The experiment design was factorial in randomized complete block design with three replications. Experiment factors consisted of planting proportions in 4 levels (sole crop of Millet, 50% Millet + 50% peanut, 100% Millet + 100% peanut and sole crop of peanut), control weed in 3 levels (non-weeding, once-weeding and twice-weeding) and the space between rows in 2 level (40 and 50 cm) has been considered. The evaluated Characteristics in environmental sources are (Photosynthetic Active Radiation, Temperature and soil Moisture), the nutrients of soil include (N, Mg, Ca, and C) and to evaluate intercropping of pure was used land equivalent ratio. All Characteristics of study except soil moisture, C, Ca and Mg were affected by planting system. There','PAR, Single elements nutrition, LER','In using environmental sources intercropping is better than monoculture. Generally choosing suitable plants and choosing proper planting pattern in intercropping systems with controlling weeding. We can increase the proficiency in receiving light, moisture and nutrients. On the other hand, choosing suitable plant density in intercropping with complementally mode causes better use of sources and this cause\'s increase yield. Generally we conclude the intercropping in one of the ways to do suitable planting with the least consumption or without external input use of things that causes more nutrients for soil and more fertility and in addition to saving water sources and soil in long terms it increases agro ecosystem stability. The results showed that intercropping system compared with sole millet and peanut are effectively used of environmental resources. Intercropping systems of land equivalent ratio greater than one that indicates mixed cultures advantages of sole crop. Treatment 100% M','During the past few decades, global approach to modern agriculture, like any other human activity causing damage to natural resources, pollution and environmental degradation and is caused ecological imbalance (Rezvani Moghaddam et al., 2009). In many parts of the world, intercropping as a common cause of agro ecosystems management that is used which has several advantages compared to monoculture (Banik et al., 2006). Rarely is used to sole crop system of all the moisture, nutrients and light available for plant growth. Intercropping with better and more effective use of resources to control grass weeds compared sole crops (Liebman and Davis, 2000). The researchers stated that the superior performance in mixed cultures may be caused by a combination of various factors such as better use of soil moisture, light and nutrients (Pandita et al., 2000). Intercropping will help to increase fertility and soil structure stability (Vasilakoglou et al., 2005). According to researchers sunflower ','Khamar Zahra, Dahmardeh Mehdi and Khammari Issa (2015). Effect of Millet and Peanut Intercropping on Efficiency of Use the Environmental Resource and Soil Fertility .Biological Forum â€“ An International Journal 7(1): 800-806. '),(4231,'117','Investigation of Life Cycle Assessment of Hazelnut Production in Guilan Province of I.R. Iran Based on Orchards size Levels','Alireza Sabzevari, Hamed Kouchaki-Penchah and Ashkan Nabavi-Pelesaraei','131 ASHKAN NABAVI-PELESARAEI.pdf','',1,'Focus of this study is on the identifying the main environmental burdens and suggesting some environmental improvement potentials by applying life cycle assessment (LCA) method for hazelnut production in Guilan province of I. R. Iran. Furthermore, this work provides comprehensive data for a hazelnut production related to different orchards size that can be used in subsequent LCA studies. The study was developed following the methodological guidelines of ISO 14040. Ten impact categories based on CML method and three impact categories using USEtox method were assessed. Large orchards (LOs) and small orchards (SOs) had the highest value in the CML impact categories. Results shows that expected in eutrophication (EP) which pesticide was the main hotspot, machinery was the main hotspot in all of the impact categories. Moreover, LOs and medium orchards (MOs) had the largest and lowest value in the USEtox impact categories, respectively. Eventually, MOs are known as the lowest contributor to','Life cycle assessment; Environmental hotspots; Hazelnut; Orchards size levels; CML method; USEtox method','This study provides comprehensive data for a hazelnut production related to different orchards size in the Guilan province of I. R. Iran that can be used in subsequent LCA-studies. Environmental impact was assessed in order to identify and compare of three orchards level. Ten impact categories (AD, AC, EP, GW, OLD, FE, ME, HT, TE, and PO) using CML method and three impact categories (Human toxicity cancer, Human toxicity non-cancer and Ecotoxicity) using USEtox method were assessed to identify the main hotspots in the hazelnut orchards and consequently assist to the hazelnut orchardists to improve their environmental performance. \r\nLOs and SOs had the highest value in the CML impact categories. Expected in EP that pesticide was the main hotspot, machinery was the main hotspot in all of the impact categories. Moreover, LOs and MOs had the largest and lowest value in the USEtox impact categories, respectively. Consequently, in the standpoint of choosing the best level of orchards by both','A hazelnut is the nut of the hazel and is also known as cobnut or filbert nut according to species. A cob is roughly spherical to oval, about 15â€“25 mm long and 10â€“15 mm in diameter, with an outer fibrous husk surrounding a smooth shell. A filbert is more elongated, being about twice as long as it is round (Nabavi-Pelesaraei et al., 2013). Iran country with 23535 hectares orchard is eighth largest producer of hazelnut in the world (FAO, 2015). Moreover, one of the major poles of hazelnut production belongs to Guilan province in Iran (Anon, 2013). The intensification of agricultural practices has substantially increased water and fertilizer consumption. Fertilizer production significantly contributes to the Global Warming Potential (GWP), essentially from CO2, CH4, and N2O emissions. Fertilizer use causes nitrogen emissions (as NH3 and N2O), nitrate leaching, and potassium and phosphorus losses to water (Beccali et al., 2010). \r\nEmissions from agriculture, however, shows an increasin','Alireza Sabzevari, Hamed Kouchaki-Penchah and Ashkan Nabavi-Pelesaraei (2015). Investigation of Life Cycle Assessment of Hazelnut Production in Guilan Province of I.R. Iran Based on Orchards size Levels .Biological Forum â€“ An International Journal 7(1)'),(4232,'117','Reuse of Treated Wastewater for Agricultural Irrigation with Its Quality Approach','Sayed Roholla Mousavi, Mohammad Taghi Tavakoli, Mohammad Dadgar, Abbas Isvand Chenari, Ali Moridiyan and Mahmoud Shahsavari \r\n','132 SAYED ROHOLLA MOUSAVI.pdf','',1,'In most arid and semi-arid regions of the world, including the lands of Iran (above 80%) water crisis is considered as one of the main problems on the path of sustainable agriculture. Due to water restrictions and increased water consumption using low quality water resources (wastewater) is considered as a solution to resolve agricultural water requirements which is pointed out as the largest consumption of water recently. The use of treated municipal wastewater for farming irrigation has been a popular and old practice in agriculture. Due to water restrictions and rising water use in recent years, especially in agricultural sector and increasing pressure on freshwater resources in water-deficit regions, using of non-conventional water sources or lower-quality water resources has been considered as a solution for water requirements in agricultural sector. Heavy metals represent a portion of important environmental pollutants which causes pollution problems by increasing their use in pr','Wastewater, heavy metals, quality, non-conventional water','In most arid and semi-arid regions of the world, including the lands of Iran (above 80%) water crisis is considered as one of the main problems on the path of sustainable agriculture. Due to water restrictions and increased water consumption using low quality water resources (wastewater) is considered as a solution to resolve agricultural water requirements which is pointed out as the largest consumption of water recently. The use of treated municipal wastewater for farming irrigation has been a popular and old practice in agriculture. Due to water restrictions and rising water use in recent years, especially in agricultural sector and increasing pressure on freshwater resources in water-deficit regions, using of non-conventional water sources or lower-quality water resources has been considered as a solution for water requirements in agricultural sector. Heavy metals represent a portion of important environmental pollutants which causes pollution problems by increasing their use in pr','In many arid and semi-arid countries, water is increasingly scarce; as a result, specialists are thought to provide new water sources, which is effective on agricultural development. Water consumption has increased with increasing world population and rising health levels (Azarpira et al., 2013; Alizadeh et al., 2011). Agriculture is the largest user of water with about 75% of freshwater being currently used for irrigation (Prathapar, 2000). The use of treated municipal wastewater for farming irrigation has been a popular and old practice in agriculture. Due to water restrictions and rising water use in recent years, especially in agricultural sector and increasing pressure on freshwater resources in water-deficit regions, using of non-conventional water sources or lower-quality water resources has been considered as a solution for water requirements in agricultural sector. Wastewater is one of the lower-quality water resources. Also non-conventional water sources, especially treated m','Sayed Roholla Mousavi, Mohammad Taghi Tavakoli, Mohammad Dadgar, Abbas Isvand Chenari, Ali Moridiyan and Mahmoud Shahsavari (2015). Reuse of Treated Wastewater for Agricultural Irrigation with Its Quality Approach .Biological Forum â€“ An International Jo'),(4233,'117','Effects of Humic and Folic acid on Quantity and Quality Related Traits of Button Mushroom (Agaricus bisporus)','Mehdi Dahmardeh, Zohreh Poodineh and Barat Ali Fakheri','133 MEHDI DAHMARDEH-2.pdf','',1,'In order to study the effect of humic and folic acid on quality and quantity related traits of white button mushroom, an experiment was conducted in factorial based on completely randomized design with three replications in Zabol University under in vitro conditions. Experimental treatments consist of humic acid (A factor) and folic acid (B factor) that including three levels such as 0, 1.5 and 3cc per liter. Results showed that effects of the folic and humic acid on the mycelium emergence percentage, cap diameter, cap color, yield, biological output and protein percentage were significant at 1%, and on the cap to base proportion was significant at the 5% probability level. Humic and folic acid interaction for the cap diameter was significant at 5%, and for other traits at 1% probability level. Application of humic and folic acid, resulting an increase of quantity and quality yield of white button mushroom. Humic and folic acid interactions showed that to get the maximum quantitative a','Diameter of the Cap, Protein percent, Cap Color','In order to study the effect of humic and folic acid on quality and quantity related traits of white button mushroom, an experiment was conducted in factorial based on completely randomized design with three replications in Zabol University under in vitro conditions. Experimental treatments consist of humic acid (A factor) and folic acid (B factor) that including three levels such as 0, 1.5 and 3cc per liter. Results showed that effects of the folic and humic acid on the mycelium emergence percentage, cap diameter, cap color, yield, biological output and protein percentage were significant at 1%, and on the cap to base proportion was significant at the 5% probability level. Humic and folic acid interaction for the cap diameter was significant at 5%, and for other traits at 1% probability level. Application of humic and folic acid, resulting an increase of quantity and quality yield of white button mushroom. Humic and folic acid interactions showed that to get the maximum quantitative a','Protein is one of the most important components of foodstuff used by human beings. Natural human body need for them shows the necessity of using them in family food baskets. From a long time ago meat especially red meat was the main source of providing the needed protein but now due to the change from traditional way of life to the industrial lifestyle and reduced physical activity of people in everyday life, the use of meat has decreased due to the large amounts of fatty substances. Instead the use of foodstuff that while having adequate amounts of protein is not detrimental to health has got a lot of attention. Cereals, soybeans and mushrooms are among the most important non animal protein sources used widely nowadays. Meantime mushroom markets experiencing a growing trend due to the increased awareness of the society about its benefits and its methods of use and by the use of modern technology and the optimal use of agricultural byproducts and processing industries mushroom\'s unit ','Mehdi Dahmardeh, Zohreh Poodineh and Barat Ali Fakheri (2015). Effects of Humic and Folic acid on Quantity and Quality Related Traits of Button Mushroom (Agaricus bisporus) . Biological Forum â€“ An International Journal 7(1): 823-828.'),(4234,'117','Determination of Energy Indices for Banana Production and Presenting a Solution for Agriculture Development using AHP','Sherwin Amini and Hadi Ravandeh','134 SHERWIN AMINI.pdf','',1,'This study was done in Sistan and Baluchistan Province of Iran in 2013-2014 and level of energy use efficiency, energy productivity, specific energy and net energy were calculated for banana. In this study random sampling was used and 10 farms were completed through field operation and interviews with farmers. The results of study showed that the total average input energy was calculated as 49535.68 MJ per hectare and the maximum share of energy consumption was related to fertilizer energies of nitrogen with 47 percent and diesel fuel with 41 percent and the minimum is related to the energies of human labor and animal fertilizers. Energy use efficiency, energy productivity, specific energy and net energy for total were achieved 0.251, 0.86 kg MJ-1, 1.18 MJ kg-1and -49413.26 MJ ha-1, respectively. The shares for direct and indirect energy were 42% and 58%, respectively. Four farms were assessed and analyzed randomly and by using AHP, that 80% energy and 20% yield were effective, and far','AHP, Banana, Energy use efficiency, Energy productivity, Specific energy','In this study, studying and determining of energy indices for banana production and presenting a solution for agricultural development in Sistan and Baluchistan Province of Iran was accomplished. According to the results, total input energy mean for farms was 49535.68 MJ ha-1 and output energy mean was 122.42MJ ha-1. Nitrogen and diesel fuel consumptions were 47% and 41% and has the highest share of energy among inputs. Energy use efficiency, energy productivity, specific energy and net energy were calculated as0.251, 0.86 kg MJ-1, 1.18 MJ kg-1 and -49413.26 MJ ha-1, respectively. Four farms were studied using AHP in terms of energy and performance, that energy with 80% and performance with 20% were effective. Farm F1 had minimum energy consumption with 0.068 and maximum yield with 0.583. Regarding that input energy was more than output energy, so input energy should be reduced and performance should be increased by optimization of nitrogen fertilizer and fuel reduction by reducing tra','Today, agriculture section is very much dependent on energy consumption in order to provide the required food for population around the world. Regarding the limited natural resources and adverse effects of using different energy resources inappropriately on human health and natural environment, it becomes vital to study energy consumption patterns in agriculture section (Hatirli et al, 2005). With regard to energy crisis and greenhouse gas emissions due to indiscriminate use of fossil fuels, all the efforts are aimed at reducing energy consumption. Agriculture section is not excluded from this issue. Most developed and developing countries study energy input in surface unit for producing different agricultural products and tried to optimize their agriculture system by calculating energy use efficiency index (Nassiri et al., 2009). Efficient use of energy is one of the needs of dynamic agriculture. Energy use in agriculture in response to population increase, limited lands for cultivati','Sherwin Amini and Hadi Ravandeh (2015). Determination of Energy Indices for Banana Production and Presenting a Solution for Agriculture Development using AHP . Biological Forum â€“ An International Journal 7(1): 829-835.'),(4235,'117','Analyzing Kriging and CoKriging Methods by using ArcGIS Software in Preparing SP map of Farahan Plain Soil','Kazem Mobarak Abadi, Reza Jafarinia and Javad Varvani','135 REZA JAFARINIA.pdf','',1,'Soil and water conservation is one of the most fundamental bases of sustainable development. Knowing the distribution manner of soil physical and chemical properties is one of the most important factors in recognition, management and exploitation of water and soil resources. Estimating the soil moisture curve plays an important role in modeling water and solutes movement through soils. Soil saturated moisture is among the most significant parameters in soil studies that is used for estimating the soil moisture curve and soil unsaturated hydraulic conductivity. This investigation was done with the purpose of investigating spatial variation of soil sp parameter by geostatistical methods and then selecting the most suitable method in estimating the above-mentioned parameter in Farahan area. For this purpose, at first, 54 soil samples were taken from the given area. Then, the soil samples were transferred to the lab for determining the soil saturated moisture (sp). After determining the sp','Soil saturation moisture, GIS, Interpolation, Kriging, Farahan','A. Investigating the indexes of data descriptive statistics \r\nIn this investigation, by sampling from 50 points from a 500 hectare area in Farahan region, the soil saturated moisture was measured and used for preparing interpolation maps. But at the beginning of the research, the indexes of data descriptive statistics were investigated. In investigating the normality of data it became clear that data has more skewness and pull relative to sp data. The skewness and pull for data were 0.698 and 9.03 respectively and for sp data were 0.3 and 1.95 respectively. Therefore, they are in the range of +2 to -2, and sp is normal. So they can be used with definiteness in other steps of statistical analysis. \r\nB. Investigating the special variation trend in soil sp\r\nAbout the special variation trend in sp, the results showed that in the direction of west-eats, soil sp in the west of region is low and by moving to the east, the values increase. But in the direction of north-south, soil sp reduces b','Among the chemical properties of diverged soils and their sensitivity to demolition and slackening, we can mention the amount of sodium, calcium and magnesium, lime, gypsum, exchange cations, texture and the kind of clay minerals. One of the most obvious cases of cation effects is sodium and/or its salt compounds like sodium carbonate which cause pasty, diffusion and divergence of soil, and in the opposite side there is neutralizing factors of sodium like calcium and magnesium that have the role of balancer and converging in soil. \r\nIrrational use of land by human is applicable in two aspects of management and exploitation manner. Therefore, in order to use soil and water in an optimum way and making the least environmental consequences, evaluating the environmental power can be used as a solution (Zarei and Mirsepas 2007). Soil is one of the valuable capitals the plays a principle role in agricultural production, natural resources and environment. Soil is a suitable place for growth a','Kazem Mobarak Abadi, Reza Jafarinia and Javad Varvani (2015). Analyzing Kriging and CoKriging Methods by using ArcGIS Software in Preparing SP map of Farahan Plain Soil . Biological Forum â€“ An International Journal 7(1): 836-846 .'),(4236,'117','Examining Phytoremediation Capability of some of Cultivars and Pasture Species surrounding Shahrekord Industrial Zone in Absorbing Lead and Cadmium','Moslem Farrokhi Berjuei, Mehran Hodaji and Ramin Iranipour','136 FARROKHI BERJUEI @ ROZITA KHADEMI-REVISED.pdf','',1,'Phytoremediation capability of some cultivars and pasture species surrounding Shahrekord Industrial park in absorbing lead and Cd elements was conducted in manner of factorial plan with three repetitions as pot experimentation. The experimented treatments consisted of, example lead treatment (4 levels) (0 mg/kg of lead), 50, 150 and 300 ml lead per pot soil; example Cd treatment (4 levels), (0 mg/kg of Cd), 5, 20, 40 ml per pot soil and plant treatment including two cultivar plants: maize (Zea mays), wheat (Triticum spp.), Portulaca and Djashir (Prangos ferulaceae). In this research, experimental soil bed for 192 pots with 5 kl weight were prepared from non-contaminated areas around Shahrekord Industrial park and adjacent to Shahrekord Plain and after full integration 2 kl sample of it were transferred to the laboratory and the concentration of absorbable Cd and lead elements (using DTPA method and atomic absorption device) as well as some of their Physical and chemical features (such ','Phytoremediation, lead, Cd, transfer rate','Considering the comparison among the data resulted from the Cd different levels, the highest Cd contents in the aerial body parts is in 40mg of Cd density, while the minimum of the same is in the witness (zero) density. The results indicated that the Cd content increase has resulted in an increase in the level of this element in the aerial body parts thereof. Considering the comparison among the data resulted from the mutual effects between the plant and different level of Cd, the highest root Cd content is in 40mg of Cd density, while the minimum of the same is in the witness (zero) density. The results showed that an increase in the Cd contents results in an increase in the contents of this element in the root, while these results are along with the results of Zimdahl (1975) and Kayser et al (2000). Meanwhile, Spirochova et al (2003) stated that the maize plant is from amongst those plants which have higher Cd contents in the root in comparison to the aerial body parts. Considering t','From the past century, the developed and developing countries lifestyle was changed which such a change entailed numerous waste production, uncontrolled utilization of natural resources, changing ecosystem with losing settlements and polluting water, soil and air. Heavy metals can have unfavorable effects on soil ecosystem and biological processes of soil for a long time. These metals in addition to making toxicity for plants and soil microorganisms through deep penetration into underground waters cause ecosystem destruction (McGrath and Zhao, 2003). Phytoremediation is a filtration technique which includes absorption, deformation, and sublimation of contaminant s with the help of plants to remove water, soil and air pollutions. In this method persistent plants which have high biomass, strong root system, and high transition rate were used. Phytoremediation is used by utilizing green plants engineering including grass and xylem species for removing contaminants from water and soil or ','Moslem Farrokhi Berjuei, Mehran Hodaji and Ramin Iranipour (2015). Examining Phytoremediation Capability of some of Cultivars and Pasture Species surrounding Shahrekord Industrial Zone in Absorbing Lead and Cadmium . Biological Forum â€“ An International '),(4237,'117','Effect of Different Levels of Vermicompost on Yield and Quality of Maize Varieties','Mohadeseh Veisi Nasab, Hamid Reza Mobasser and Hamid Reza Ganjali','137 MOHADESEH VEISI NASAB, HAMID REZA MOBASSER AND HAMID REZA GANJALI.pdf','',1,'Maize (Zea mays L.) is in the third rank after wheat and rice and is grown all over the world in a wide range of climatic condition. Excessive use of chemical fertilizers, decline in soil and food quality due to loss of soil organic matter is the main characteristics of the conventional farming systems which are more pronounced in arid and semi-arid areas. Vermicompost is a good substitute for commercial fertilizer and has more N, P and K than the normal heap manure. The use of vermicompost appears to affect plant growth in ways that cannot be directly linked to physical or chemical properties. However, the improvements in physical and chemical structure of the growth media are attributed to the increase in plant growth. The field experiment was laid out in split plot design with factorial design with four replications. Treatments included levels of vermicompost (0, 4, 8 and 12 t/ha) as main plot and variety (700 and 704) as sub plot. Analysis of variance showed that the effect of verm','Biological yield, Seed yield, Harvest index, Protein (%)','Maize (Zea mays L.) is in the third rank after wheat and rice and is grown all over the world in a wide range of climatic condition. Excessive use of chemical fertilizers, decline in soil and food quality due to loss of soil organic matter is the main characteristics of the conventional farming systems which are more pronounced in arid and semi-arid areas. Vermicompost is a good substitute for commercial fertilizer and has more N, P and K than the normal heap manure. The use of vermicompost appears to affect plant growth in ways that cannot be directly linked to physical or chemical properties. However, the improvements in physical and chemical structure of the growth media are attributed to the increase in plant growth. The field experiment was laid out in split plot design with factorial design with four replications. Treatments included levels of vermicompost (0, 4, 8 and 12 t/ha) as main plot and variety (700 and 704) as sub plot. Analysis of variance showed that the effect of verm','Maize (Zea mays L.) is in the third rank after wheat and rice and is grown all over the world in a wide range of climatic condition. Being highly cross pollinated, maize has become highly polymorphic through the course of natural and domesticated evolution and thus contains enormous variability in which salinity tolerance may exist (Paterniani, 2009). Maize, which belongs to the plants with C4 metabolism, is also classified as moderately sensitive to salinity (Mass and Hofffman, 2013; Katerji et al., 2012; Ouda et al., 2008). For maize grown under salinity, reduction in growth characters and yield were observed (Ouda et al., 2008). In organic farming found use of a recovery of waste products with farming technology of earthworm in the genus Eisenia foetida, which in the gastrointestinal tract mixed digested organic matter with minerals, i.e. soil, thereby is created an organo-mineral complex secreted in the form of rollers i.e. casts, which having a positive impact on the physical, che','Mohadeseh Veisi Nasab, Hamid Reza Mobasser and Hamid Reza Ganjali (2015). Effect of Different Levels of Vermicompost on Yield and Quality of Maize Varieties .Biological Forum â€“ An International Journal 7(1): 856-860 .'),(4238,'117','Quantitative Effects Influencing Factors in the Urmia Lake Water Level Changes Using a System Dynamics Model','Saeid Khoshtinat, Mohammad Taghi Alami and Babak Amin Nezhad','138 SAEID KHOSHTINAT.pdf','',1,'System dynamics model is in fact the object oriented simulation modeling and it is based on feedback that in addition to describing complex systems based on reality, it allows the effective involvement of the user in the development of the model and provides his confidence during the modeling process. Increased speed of model development, group model development capacities, effective interrelationship with results and increasedconfidence in the model in the result of user participation is the most important features of this method of simulation. The ease of modifying the model and perform sensitivity analysis have made this model more appealing than other analysis methods. In this paper the system of surface water resources pouring into Zarinehrud, Shahrechay, Alavian, Nahand, Mahabad and Shahid Madani dams as a part of Urmia Drainage Basin is simulated with system dynamics and using Vensim computer program and their construction effect on the Urmia Lake level. The system dynamics mode','Drainage basin, System dynamics model, Lake Urmia, Vensim ','According to the simulation results the simulation of each of the damto determine the quantitative effect of their construction in the reduced level of Lake Urmia the following results was obtained:\r\n-The most reduced discharge is due to the construction of Zarinerud Dam. \r\n-The average reduction of discharge of the rivers entering the Lke Urmia due to dam construction is 64%. \r\n-Based on the fact that the normal area of Lake Urmia is 5500 km2 and the average annual evaporation id 1200 mm annually, through considering the 1361.65 milliom m2 reserved water behind the dams using relations (2 and 3) it is concluded that the effect of the dams on reducing the Lake level is 21% and dams have \r\n\r\na considerable role in reserving and providing water for their downstream. In fact it can be said that the dams are the regulators of the upstream water to prevent flood and the undesired consequences and providing the agricultural, industrial, urban and environmental water requirements and the prob','One of the ways to overcome the problem of shortage of water resources and contribute to the sustainable development of water resource systems is the assessment of management policies and help in decision-making at the macro level. One of the important issues in water resource management is the evaluation and decision-making based on the total system rather than restricting a single reservoir approach which requires having an integrated vision of the mentioned system. In recent decades using various methods of analysis in the field of system simulation and in optimization has become an efficient tool in resource management which has an important role in overcoming the challenges in this field (Simonovic, 2000). \r\nIrregular population development, agricultural development and rapid growth in industry increase water demand every day. A part of requirements is provided by the surface water supplies\' control through dam construction. Limited controllable waters and continuously increasing ','Saeid Khoshtinat, Mohammad Taghi Alami and Babak Amin Nezhad (2015). Quantitative Effects Influencing Factors in the Urmia Lake Water Level Changes Using a System Dynamics Model .Biological Forum â€“ An International Journal 7(1): 861-870. '),(4239,'117','Assessment Quantitative and Qualitative factors of Peanut (Arachis hypogaea L.) under Drought Stress and Salicylic Acid treatments','Mohammad Ali Karimian, Mehdi Dahmardeh, Fatemeh Bidarnamani \r\nand Mohammad Forouzandeh\r\n','139 MOHAMMAD ALI KARIMIAN.pdf','',1,'In order to study the effects of drought stress and salicylic acid on quantitative and qualitative characteristics of peanut crop, a research was conducted in 2013 in the Institute of Agriculture, University of Zabol as a splitted- plot experiment based on a randomized completely block design with three replications. The main plots included three irrigation regimes, 90 (control), 70% and 50% humidity of field capacity and four levels of salicylic acid, control, 1, 2 and 3 mM were considered as the sub plot factors. The studied traits were dried herb yield, pod yield, seed yield, 100- seed weight, number of pods per plant, content of kernelling, protein and oil content of the seed. The results showed that drought had a significant impact on the studied properties so that severe stress (50% of field capacity moisture) makes a 42.83% increase in grain protein content and decreases yield of dry plant, seed yield and seed oil content by 45.23, 38.65, and 23.32%, respectively. In contrast, s','Peanut, drought, grain yield, content of seed protein, content of seed oil ','The results indicate a positive and significant effect of salicylic acid on the properties of peanuts. According to the obtained results, it can be concluded that 70 percent of field capacity moisture and taking 3 mM salicylic acid can create a good performance in terms of quantity and quality.','After soybean oil, Peanut (Arachis hypogaea L.) is one of the most important and economic pellets in tropical and subtropical regions mostly planted to produce 43-55% oil and protein (Holbrook and Stalker, 2003). Peanut seeds is mainly used in preparation of edible oil, conserve, margarine, soap and the like. Peanut meal is also an invaluable feed for livestock and its nutritional value is the same as soybean meal. After sunflower, It has the highest percentage of sunflower oil among seed crops (Khajehpour, 1999). Humidity stress, which is a part of general stresses, has undesirable effects on plant growth and crop production (Blum, 2005). The stress caused by anatomical, morphological, physiological and biochemical changes affect different aspects of plant growth and development and the severity of the drought damage depends on the duration of this stress and various growth stages. This stress reduces photosynthesis, Stomata conductance, biomass, growth and ultimately result in plan','Mohammad Ali Karimian, Mehdi Dahmardeh, Fatemeh Bidarnamani \r\nand Mohammad Forouzandeh (2015). Assessment Quantitative and Qualitative factors of Peanut (Arachis hypogaea L.) under Drought Stress and Salicylic Acid treatments . Biological Forum â€“ An In'),(4240,'117','Investigating the Effect of Hypoxia and Interception of Olfactory Nerve Receptor on Glucose, PT, T and TT of Non-Pregnant Rabbits Blood Plasma','Bahram Abdi, Ali Aliyev and Afig Qaziyev','140 BAHRAM ABDI.pdf','',1,'The subject of this study was to examine the effect of hypoxia and interception of olfactory nerve receptor on glucose, PT, T, and TT in rabbits. The study method is experimental that has conducted on two groups (test and control groups), these groups included non-pregnant rabbits during 2011-2013. The results show that hypoxia and interception of olfactory nerve receptor decrease glucose, PT, T, and TT in blood plasma and there are significant differences between control and test rabbits.','Hypoxia, Glucose, Prothrombin, Thrombin, Olfactory Nerve','As a result of conducted researches, it is revealed that level of glycemic reactions, time of a prothrombin and thrombin in the blood plasma of non pregnant rabbits that were under hypoxia in given period time (21-30) during the 30th day of life is changed and in 31th day after dereceptor olfactory nerve is considered that the glucose, PT and T is decreased significantly compared with control group, but TT in plasma blood in rabbits that were under hypoxia is increased.','The main aim of the cardio-respiratory system is providing CO2 and nutrients to the cells and removing of CO2 and other metabolic products. The complete and appropriate conduction of this action owes to health of the respiratory and cardiovascular system and sufficient amount of red cells and blood hemoglobin and sufficient level of oxygen in respiration. Hence hypoxia converts the brain aerobic metabolism to anaerobic and as a result lactic acid is increased and lactic acid increased eleven has a direct relationship with brain damage level (King et al., 1985). Also, hypoxia causes to disorder in conscious, ataxia, headache with dilation of cerebral arteries and dizziness, reduction of mental activity and coma and reduction of the muscles working capacity (Harrison (2008), Mekean and London (2001), Michiels (2004),\r\nLi et al. (2003) Kline et al. (2002)). Respiratory neurons in the brainstem receive information from chemical receptors, peripheral sensory and cortex. This information ','Bahram Abdi, Ali Aliyev and Afig Qaziyev (2015). Investigating the Effect of Hypoxia and Interception of Olfactory Nerve Receptor on Glucose, PT, T and TT of Non-Pregnant Rabbits Blood Plasma .Biological Forum â€“ An International Journal 7(1): 879-881 .'),(4241,'117','Study of the Effects of Land Use Change on Organic Soil Characteristics Case Study: Shenroud of Siahkal, Guilan Province','Seyyed Amaneh Saadat, Vahid Hemmati , Jalal Mahmoudi and Seyed Khadije Mahdavi','141 SEYYED AMANEH SAADAT.pdf','',1,'In order to study the effect of land use change of forest into pasture and garden on soil characteristics, Shenroud of Siahkal Region located of Iranian north forests was selected. Soil samples were taken using random systematic method from depth of 0 to 30 centimeters. Totally 60 soil samples (20 samples for each region) were delivered to the soil lab. The data analysis was implemented using SPSS 18 Software and in order to study and compare the data average, the one way variance analysis test (ANOVA) and Duncan\'s multivariate test were used. The research results showed that the percentage of organic carbon, nitrogen and phosphorus in the forests is higher than the tea garden and pasture which implies a decline in soil quality due to forest land use change into pasture and tea garden. Average carbon to nitrogen ratio was highest in tea garden and the lowest in pasture and forest. Therefore, it can be said that land use change can affect the soil characteristics and lead to soil destru','Land Use Change, Soil, Shenroud of Siahkal','The results of this research show a significant difference in amount of nitrogen, organic carbon, carbon to nitrogen ratio, acidity and phosphorus during the forest use change into pasture and garden. According to the results, forest use change caused reduction in percentage of organic carbon, nitrogen in forest and carbon to nitrogen ratio in garden. Therefore, considering the ecological importance of Iranian northern forests, results of this research require more attention to studying the modification and land use change in this area.','INTRODUCTION\r\nThe soil quality is one of the most important studied factors in assessment of soil management and biological realm stability (Hemmati, 2012). The soil characteristics are extremely affected by soil management and land use systems. The soil is a very important factor in growth and distribution of vegetation. The land use change affects ecosystem processes specifically mineralization rate of carbon and nitrogen. The effect of different usages through adding their leaf litters to the soil surface in natural forests, tea gardens and pastures can have positive or negative effects on physical, biological and chemical characteristics of the soil. Land use change and agricultural operations in untapped lands reduce entrance of the fresh plant debris to the soil. Reduction of carbon stocks in soil, cause decrease of microbial biomass and activity of microorganisms in the soil. This important part of the soil has a crucial role in decomposition of organic materials and returning t',' Seyyed Amaneh Saadat, Vahid Hemmati , Jalal Mahmoudi and Seyed Khadije Mahdavi (2015). Study of the Effects of Land Use Change on Organic Soil Characteristics Case Study: Shenroud of Siahkal, Guilan Province . Biological Forum â€“ An International Journ'),(4242,'117','Biological Control of Fusarium wilt of Tomato (Solanum lycopersicum) by Trichoderma spp. as Antagonist Fungi','Mohammad Akrami and Zohreh Yousefi','142 MOHAMMAD AKRAMI.pdf','',1,'Fusarium spp. (F. solani and F. oxysporum) are the important soil-borne pathogens and infects wide variety of hosts. The effects of Trichoderma harzianum, T. asperellum, and T. virens on the wilt disease complex of tomato (Solanum lycopersicum) caused by Fusarium oxysporum f. sp. ciceri and Rhizoctonia solani were investigated under greenhouse conditions. Tomato cultivar inoculated with F. oxysporum f. sp. ciceri and R. solani, showed greater wilt incidence, chlorosis of leaves and induced vascular discoloration in roots. Soil administration with biocontrol agents adjusted the severity of wilt in roots, substantially (P<0.01). The disease control was highest with a combination of T. harzianum, T. asperellum, and T. virens (80-87%) followed by binary combination of Trichoderma. spp. (79%-82%), while the lowest control was done with T. viride (65%). It is concluded that T. harzianum, T. asperellum and T. viride could control pathogen attacks in tomato and it can be considered as an appli','Tomato, Disease management, Trichoderma spp., Fusarium oxysporum f. sp. ciceri, Rhizoctonia solani','From the results of presented study it is concluded that, although all bio control agents applied individually reduced disease incidence, synthetic treatments including T. harzianum, T. Asperellum and T. virens were showed more protective effect for bio control tomato field exposed to F. solani and F. oxysporum.\r\nIt is widely known that environmental parameters such as abiotic (soil type, soil temperature, soil pH and water potential) and biotic (plant species and variety, and microbial activity of the soil) factors as well as other factors such as method and timing of applications may have influence on the biological control efficacy of Trichoderma isolates. Therefore, it is important that Trichoderma bio control potential in field should be further evaluated. Although several biocontrol agents including botanicals have been tried against Fusarium wilt disease, still this lethal disease could not be controlled completely. Besides most of the biocontrol experiments were conducted eithe','Tomato (Solanum lycopersicum L.) is a major contributor to the fruit vegetable diet of humans. It is cultivated in essentially all countries either in fields or in protected culture. Its many varieties are now widely grown, sometimes in greenhouses in cooler climates. It is one of the most important vegetable crops in Iran and other countries (Abd-El Kareem et al., 2006). Fusarium root and stem rot is regarded as one of the most devastating diseases in cucurbits affecting cultivations in many countries around the world (Pavlou and Vakalounakis, 2005). Fusarium oxysporum is a soil borne fungal pathogen that attacks plants through roots at all stages of plant growth, causes major economic losses by inducing necrosis and wilting symptoms in many crop plants (Cotxarrera, et al., 2002). Several diseases are known to limit worldwide production of tomato, of which Fusarium solani f. sp. Eumartii and Fusarium oxysporum f. sp. ciceris (Fusarium wilt) is one of the most important. Management of ','Mohammad Akrami and Zohreh Yousefi (2015). Biological Control of Fusarium wilt of Tomato (Solanum lycopersicum) by Trichoderma spp. as Antagonist Fungi . Biological Forum â€“ An International Journal 7(1): 887-892 .'),(4243,'117','Qualitative Assessment of Burger fish of (Hypophthalmichthys molitrix) by using extract and Powder of Dill Plant during Preservation in Fridge','Somayeh Hassanpour*, Abasali Zamini and Ali Asghar Khanipour','143 ABASALI ZAMINI.pdf','',1,'This research with the aim of qualitative evaluation and survival life of Hypophthalmichthys molitrix by using extract and powder of the dill plant and comparing effects of the powder and extract of this plant, in two experimental groups that one group related to extract of dill to the amount of 200mg per kg and a group related to the powder of dill to the degree of 4.5% from whole allowed additives to the Hypophthalmichthys molitrix. Samples were transferred to the fridge for preservation and measurement of chemical indices of corruption started from zero then during 6 months it has been done once a month. The process of chemical changes, showed increasing process in the results during different time phases in most cases as this increase in control group has had relatively rapid slope and in some cases before sixth phase it reached standard border or even higher than it whereas this increase in other treatments was observed with slower slope, also excellence of the effect of extract ','Hypophthalmichthys molitrix-burgur fish-antioxidant-dill Anethum graveolens- survival life- chemical indices of corruption','Hydro peroxides were primary products of oxidation of PUFAs ad so the primary oxidation of oil is assessed by measuring the degree of peroxide (Lin and Lin, 2005). Generally the result of this research showed that by spending time of preservation, PV in all treatments has increased but the least degree of increase was related to treatments having extract of dill(table 10 that in comparison with the result of other researchers is adapted with some of them and isn\'t adapted with some others. Such researches are Rezaei and Hosseini (2008) the degree of peroxide has decreased by passing time that is attributed to analysis of hydro peroxide and is not adapted with this research. Cakli et al (2005) have considered chemical quality of fish fingers resulted from pink perch fish and sardine that faced with qualitative drop and corruption of the product. If in this research by using silver carp and plant extract we could minimize quality drop in burger and also the result of this research denote','Sea food due to being enriched of protein, vitamins soluble in fat and unsaturated fatty acids of omega3, that have high importance at human food diet has got high importance to itself (Bojanical, 2009). Sea food is corrupted and usually is corrupted faster than flesh food and their flesh after death is more talented to be corrupted than other fleshes. The problem may be due to different compound of sea food because of having fatty acids with long chain with some dual bonds. Therefore we cannot preserve fish more than 12-15 hours in temperature of the environment because survival of fishes in the air depends on chemical effects of atmosphere oxygen and growth of aerobic microorganism producing corruption (Perez-Alonso et al, 2004). \r\nFish quality and des foods in fisheries industry is one important subject at aquatic processing industry especially in developing countries. Fishes and aquatics caught newly are more talented to corruption and their survival life is related to the growth o','Somayeh Hassanpour*, Abasali Zamini and Ali Asghar Khanipour (2015). Qualitative Assessment of Burger fish of (Hypophthalmichthys molitrix) by using extract and Powder of Dill Plant during Preservation in Fridge .Biological Forum â€“ An International Jour'),(4244,'117','The Effect of Diet type (Mash, Pellets, Extruded and Crumble) on some Immune Responses Broiler Chicken','Shahin Reshadi-Nejad, Seyed Ali Tabeidian and Majid Toghyani','144 SHAHIN RESHADI-NEJAD, SEYED ALI TABEIDIAN AND MAJID TOGHYANI.pdf','',1,'New processing methods of feed in poultry feed industry with changing the feed physical and chemical structures can increase the availability and digestibility of nutrients and influence some immune responses. The aim of this study is evaluating the effect of diet type (mash, pellets, extruded and crumble) on some immune responses. For this purpose 240 one day ROSS 308 chickens were used. Chickens were grouped as a CRD design with 4 treatments and 5 replications. During the experiment chickens freely access to food and water. The treatments consisted of mash diet, pelleted diet, crumbles diet and extruded diet. All diets were identical in terms of all the nutrients and energy and protein levels. All diets were same in terms of all the nutrients and energy and protein levels. In this research, data were analyzed using SAS (2008) based on CRD design as a GLM method. Two chickens at the age of 25 days from each replication were selected and washed sheep red blood cells were injected into','hemagglutination method, lymphoid organ','The results of this study showed that different types of diet (mash, pellets, extruded and crumbles) had different effects on the immune response of broiler chicks. Types of diets on the amount of antibody produced against influenza virus had no significant effect, but significant effects of diet type were obtained for immune response of chickens. Titer of antibodies against Newcastle disease significantly increased under mash diet compared with extrusion. Crumble diet resulted in increase of antibody production against washed RBCs compared with extruded, but other treatments (mash and pellets) are not statistically different. All treatments had no significant effects on heterophil: lymphocyte ratio and lymphoid organs weight.','World population growth and increasing demand for protein sources are greater than protein supply. To enhance the quality of food, a variety of processing methods on feed intake by animals, especially poultry rearing is to be placed at the highest level of quality. Nowadays, various commercial feed mills are producing different forms of feed for different age group of bird. Pelleting is a processing method that is employed by the feed manufactures to improve farm animal performance. The physical form of feed (mash, pellet and crumble) is a crucial factor in meat yield of broiler. Various feed forms pellet, mash or crumble that to be supplied to chickens are the most important factor which directly influence the cost of mixed feed and production performance of broiler. The major objective of poultry feeding is the conversion of feedstuff into human food.\r\nMash is a form of a complete feed that is finely ground and mixed so that birds cannot easily separate out ingredients; each mouthful','Shahin Reshadi-Nejad, Seyed Ali Tabeidian and Majid Toghyani (2015).The Effect of Diet type (Mash, Pellets, Extruded and Crumble) on some Immune Responses Broiler Chicken .Biological Forum â€“ An International Journal 7(1): 901-904 . '),(4245,'117','Evaluation of Energy Consumption and Economic Analysis for Traditional and Modern farms of Broiler Production','Sherwin Amini, Navab Kazemi and Afshin Marzban','145 SHERWIN AMINI.pdf','',1,'The main of this study was the survey of energy use and economic analysis of broiler production in Mazandaran province of Iran based on two levels of traditional and modern farms. So, the initial data were collected from each system by face-to-face questionnaire separately. Accordingly, the 70 broiler producers were considered for each system. The results revealed the total energy use and broiler yield of traditional farms were about 178343 MJ (1000 birds)-1 and 2746 kg (1000 birds)-1, respectively; while these items were about 188798 MJ (1000 birds)-1 and 3071 kg (1000 birds) -1 for modern farms respectively. Diesel fuel and feed had the highest share of total energy consumption for both of systems. The energy use efficiency was computed as 0.16 and 0.17 for traditional and modern farms, respectively. Also, the other indices were same in both of systems, approximately. Based on energy forms results, the rate of direct and non-renewable energy was more than indirect and renewable energ','Benefit-cost ratio; Broiler production; Economic indices; Energy; Iran','Based on the present study the following conclusions are drawn:\r\n1. The total energy consumption of traditional and modern farms was calculated as 178342.90 and 188797.91MJ (1000 birds) -1, respectively; while, the broiler yield was found about 2746 and 3071 kg (1000 birds) -1 for traditional and modern farms, respectively.\r\n2. The highest share of energy consumption was belonged to diesel fuel and feed for both of systems. The electricity was in the next step of highest consumer input.\r\n3. The results of energy indices showed energy use efficiency was 0.16 and 0.17, respectively. Also, the other indices were same in both of systems, approximately. Moreover, the net energy was negative; which indicated the energy inputs was inefficient in broiler production in the studied area.\r\n4. The energy forms analysis results illustrated the direct and non-renewable energy was more than indirect and renewable energy, respectively. Moreover, the share of direct and indirect energies was about 65% ','The broiler production is very important in the recent years. They are rich sources for protein supply in the world. The major sources of protein in developing countries are beef, goat, mutton and poultry meats while other sources termed miscellaneous are egg and milk which have a bulk share of animal protein required by man. It is necessary to note that adequate consumption of meat is an indication of social and economic welfare (Ikeme, 1990). Energy, being the capacity to do work, is at the heart of all human activities, especially those concerning the production of goods and services. Energy is used in almost all facets of living and in all countries, and makes possible the existence of ecosystems, human civilizations and life itself. Different regions and societies adapt to their environments and determine their own energy resources and energy uses. The standards of life achieved in countries are often a function of energy related factors. On the other hand, energy can exist in man','Sherwin Amini, Navab Kazemi and Afshin Marzban (2015). Evaluation of Energy Consumption and Economic Analysis for Traditional and Modern farms of Broiler Production .Biological Forum â€“ An International Journal 7(1): 905-911 .'),(4246,'117','Genetic Analysis of Physiological Criteria of Drought Tolerance in Bread Wheat under Rainfed Conditions','Ezatollah Farshadfar, Amin Ahamadi Rad and Saba Kianifar','146 EZATOLLAH FARSHADFAR.pdf','',1,'In this study 15 genotypes from a six-parental diallel cross, excluding reciprocals, were grown in the field using a randomized complete block design (RCBD) with three replications under rainfed condition. Significant differences were found for chlorophyll a (Cha), chlorophyll b (Chb), total chlorophyll (Total Ch) and Prolin Content (PC) indicating the presence of genotypic variability, different responses of genotypes and possibility of selection genotypes for breeding programs. Mean square of specific combining ability (SCA) was significant for Chb, exhibiting the involvement of non- additive gene action in its inheritance. According to general combining ability of parents for significant traits, the high amount of PC, cell membrane stability (CMS), relative chlorophyll content (RCC), total Ch, Chb, Cha and relative water content (RWC) were attributed to the parents 5, 3, 6, 3, 3, 3 and 5, while low amount were observed for parents 1, 5, 1, 1, 4, 1 and 6 respectively. The best specif','Wheat, diallel analysis, physiological traits, drought stress','In this study 15 genotypes from a six-parental diallel cross, excluding reciprocals, were grown in the field using a randomized complete block design (RCBD) with three replications under rainfed condition. Significant differences were found for chlorophyll a (Cha), chlorophyll b (Chb), total chlorophyll (Total Ch) and Prolin Content (PC) indicating the presence of genotypic variability, different responses of genotypes and possibility of selection genotypes for breeding programs. Mean square of specific combining ability (SCA) was significant for Chb, exhibiting the involvement of non- additive gene action in its inheritance. According to general combining ability of parents for significant traits, the high amount of PC, cell membrane stability (CMS), relative chlorophyll content (RCC), total Ch, Chb, Cha and relative water content (RWC) were attributed to the parents 5, 3, 6, 3, 3, 3 and 5, while low amount were observed for parents 1, 5, 1, 1, 4, 1 and 6 respectively. The best specif','Water limitation is one of the most important constraints for agriculture. More recently, global warming may be worsening this situation in most agricultural regions. Thus, it is quite relevant to understand the mechanisms that enable plants to cope with water deficit. Indeed, plants show a wide range of adaptations, at different levels, to drought stress. Several strategies used by plants to adapt to low water potential at the physiological, biochemical and molecular levels (Xoconostle-Cazares et al., 2010).Water stress is a problem that affects 45% of the worldâ€™s geographic area and is a major restriction in wheat production and the most important contributor to yield reduction in semiarid regions (Ali et al., 2011).\r\nDiallel cross is one of the most complex designs that have been used extensively for the genetic analysis of quantitative characters and it also frequently used in plant breeding research to obtain information about genetic properties of parental lines or estimates of','Ezatollah Farshadfar, Amin Ahamadi Rad and Saba Kianifar (2015). Genetic Analysis of Physiological Criteria of Drought Tolerance in Bread Wheat under Rainfed Conditions . Biological Forum â€“ An International Journal 7(1): 912-919 . '),(4247,'117','Study of Drought Stress Patterns in Khorasan Province using Climatic-Agricultural Indices','Omid Armandpisheh, Mohammad Bannayan Aval, Hamidreza Khazaei, Mostafa Aghaei and Mohammad Kafi\r\n','147 OMID ARMANDPISHEH, MOHAMMAD BANNAYAN AVAL, HAMIDREZA KHAZAEI, MOSTAFA AGHAEI.pdf','',1,'The present study is aimed to evaluate the drought patterns in Khorasan province over the years of 1983 to 2011. Drought conditions using rainfed wheat yield is an indicator reflecting climate conditions and patterns, which is used in agriculture. In the current study, the integration of drought stress indicator suitable with the region conditions (Heat to Precipitation Ratio index), land-spatial analysis for evaluating spatial distribution and drought time patterns during previous years, was used. It identifies some regions (Torbat heydarieh, Ferdows, Gonabad and Ghaen), in which relative harsh drought causes problem for crop production. High amount of HPR was observed in wider part of the province, and higher amounts HPR were seen in cities of Nehbandan and Boshruyeh. In general, time patterns in the present study shows that drought across Khorasan province is accompanied with increasing trend. ','Rainfed wheat, drought stress, climatic agricultural indices, Khorasan province.','The present study is aimed to evaluate the drought patterns in Khorasan province over the years of 1983 to 2011. Drought conditions using rainfed wheat yield is an indicator reflecting climate conditions and patterns, which is used in agriculture. In the current study, the integration of drought stress indicator suitable with the region conditions (Heat to Precipitation Ratio index), land-spatial analysis for evaluating spatial distribution and drought time patterns during previous years, was used. It identifies some regions (Torbat heydarieh, Ferdows, Gonabad and Ghaen), in which relative harsh drought causes problem for crop production. High amount of HPR was observed in wider part of the province, and higher amounts HPR were seen in cities of Nehbandan and Boshruyeh. In general, time patterns in the present study shows that drought across Khorasan province is accompanied with increasing trend. ','The possible effects of plants response to climatic changes are partially analyzed (Easterling et al., 2000; Meir et al., 2006). However, new evidence was reported about the climatic changes effects on agricultural crops (Tao et al., 2006). One of the main concepts in the context of climatic changes is drought, which is the most important hazard in 20th century resulting in billions dollars loss (Bruce, 1994). Drought is one of the main natural risks in all over the world with which large parts of the world face. Due to the increase in frequency and intensity of heat waves in the future, climatic models of drought predict the probability of drought increase in the future (Beniston and Stephenson, 2004). Yet due to clarity in scale and the model output patterns, climatic models may not be compatible with low precipitation regions (Vicente-Serrano et al., 2004). Heat waves and drought have many features in common, and have negative wide effects on crops growth (Mavromatis, 2007). Precipi','Omid Armandpisheh, Mohammad Bannayan Aval, Hamidreza Khazaei, Mostafa Aghaei and Mohammad Kafi (2015). Study of Drought Stress Patterns in Khorasan Province using Climatic-Agricultural Indices.Biological Forum â€“ An International Journal 7(1): 920-928.\r\n'),(4248,'117','Private and Social Cost-Benefit Analysis of Biodiesel Produced from Salvia leriifolia','Shima Javaheri, Hossein Sadeghi, Barat Ghobadian, Mohammadhadi Hajian and Bahareh Hashemlou\r\n','148 MOHAMMADHADI HAJIAN.pdf','',1,'Through changing cetane number, substitution of biodiesel instead of gas oil would reduce fossil fuels usage and subsequently greenhouse gas emissions. Biodiesel, as one of the most important biofuels, is environmentally advantageous, even if it is more expensive than gas oil. This paper investigates the possibility of producing biodiesel from Salvia leriifolia, a wilding self-growing plant in Iran, as well as economic cost-benefit analysis from private and social viewpoints. To do this, a biodiesel-producer plant with the annual capacity of 300, 135, and 15 thousand tons of respectively biodiesel, meal, and glycerin is considered and economically evaluated. The results indicate that cost price of each liter biodiesel produced in such plant is estimated 0.06 USD that is not much less than domestic gasoil price (0.10 USD), receiving subsidies, but also is less than the Persian Gulf FOB that is about 0.5 USD per liter gasoil. Social cost-benefit analysis suggests that establishment of bi','Economic evaluation, Salvia leriifolia, Biodiesel, cost-benefit analysis, Sensitivity Analysis ','Given that Salvia leriifolia is an indigenous species in Iran, planting this herb can reduce pressure on extracting fossil fuels followed by a reduction in the country\' desertification. In addition, this plant has the ability to grow in low water and warm, hot regions. Planting it in arid areas where constituting area broad range of country\'s regions makes possible producing a significant amount of biodiesel.\r\nAs biodiesel fuel is unknown in Iran, it must overcome regulatory obstacles before entering the market, and its price become more competitive. Biodiesel with the current market is likely to be used as fuel in buses fleet, trucks and heavy vehicles.\r\nThis research studied the biodiesel production in a plant with the capacity of 300 thousand tons. Moreover, constructing of the plant was analyzed in economic terms. The results demonstrated that constructing a biodiesel production plant with Salvia leriifolia in Iran with the annual capacity of 300 thousand tons, the overall cost of ','Biodiesel is an ethyl ester or methyl ester, made of vegetable oils or animal fats, applied as fuel in diesel engines or thermal systems (DU et al, 2004; Demirbas, 2003; Ghobadian and Rahimi, 2004). Since its environmental benefits, biodiesel will be utilized as the primary fuel in transportation sector in the following years; then, bioethanol plays a major role in providing transportation fuel (Panoutsou et al, 2008) because by using biodiesel, the positive external benefits will be even greater than revenues (Wassell and Dittmer, 2005). Biofuels are easily obtained from common biomass resources, are environmentally friendly, renewable, and have great contributions in environmental sustainability (Puppan, 2002). Most likely due to rising prices of fossil fuels in the future, the use of biomass will be economically significant. Production of biofuels from biomass due to low carbon dioxide emissions and lower sulfur content has very positive impact on the environment. Utilizing renewabl','Shima Javaheri, Hossein Sadeghi, Barat Ghobadian, Mohammadhadi Hajian and Bahareh Hashemlou (2015). Private and Social Cost-Benefit Analysis of Biodiesel Produced from Salvia leriifolia . Biological Forum â€“ An International Journal 7(1): 929-939 . \r\n'),(4249,'117','Effects of Diet Supplementation with Zinc Enriched Yeast on Blood Indices and some Biochemical Parameters in Rainbow Trout (Oncorhynchus mykiss)','Ahmad Gharekhani, Ghobad Azari Takami, Amir Tukmechi, Mohammad Afshar Nasab and Naser Agh\r\n','149 AMIR TUKMECHI.pdf','',1,'Zinc (Zn) is an essential trace element in all living organisms, and the first eukaryotic zinc uptake transporter was discovered in the yeast, Saccharomyces cerevisiae. Zinc-enriched yeast is considered zinc (Zn) supplements currently available. The purpose of the investigation was to compare and evaluate the effect of zinc enriched yeast blood indices and biochemical parameters in rainbow trout. The fish (mean body weight 10 Â± 0.5 g) were fed a commercial diet supplemented with 0 (control), 1Ã—106, 1Ã—107 and 1Ã—108 CFU/g of Zn-enriched yeast for 60-days. Blood samples were taken from the onset and at day 60 of feeding supplemented diet for measuring the blood parameters in rainbow trout. Results showed that significant increase in white blood cells count was seen in all treatment groups during feeding trial when compared to the control group. As well as results documented that diet supplementation with Zn-enriched yeast altered some biochemical parameters in rainbow trout. On the ba','Rainbow trout, zinc enriched yeast, blood indices, biochemical parameters','Zinc (Zn) is an essential trace element in all living organisms, and the first eukaryotic zinc uptake transporter was discovered in the yeast, Saccharomyces cerevisiae. Zinc-enriched yeast is considered zinc (Zn) supplements currently available. The purpose of the investigation was to compare and evaluate the effect of zinc enriched yeast blood indices and biochemical parameters in rainbow trout. The fish (mean body weight 10 Â± 0.5 g) were fed a commercial diet supplemented with 0 (control), 1Ã—106, 1Ã—107 and 1Ã—108 CFU/g of Zn-enriched yeast for 60-days. Blood samples were taken from the onset and at day 60 of feeding supplemented diet for measuring the blood parameters in rainbow trout. Results showed that significant increase in white blood cells count was seen in all treatment groups during feeding trial when compared to the control group. As well as results documented that diet supplementation with Zn-enriched yeast altered some biochemical parameters in rainbow trout. On the ba','Zinc (Zn) is an essential trace element for all living organisms, its role in biology was first recognized by Raulin in 1869 (Prasad, 2009). It acts as a co-factor for a large number of proteins and enzymes (Schneider, 2013). Also, Zinc affects many aspects of the immune system and it is essential for normal development and function of immunity such as phagocytosis, intracellular killing and cytokines production (Prasad, 2009). Zinc also functions as an antioxidant and anti inflammatory agent. Zinc requirements of fish are difficult to determine because fish may in part utilize trace elements that are present in solution. However, zinc is not taken from water in sufficient amounts to meet the needs of fish and most therefore be supplied by the diet to prevent deficiencies. In rainbow trout an adequate zinc content of the diet was estimated to be 15-30 mg per kg. This trace element is readily absorbed from the gastro-intestinal tract, gills, fins and skin of fish. Dietary zinc availabil','Ahmad Gharekhani, Ghobad Azari Takami, Amir Tukmechi, Mohammad Afshar Nasab and Naser Agh (2015). Effects of Diet Supplementation with Zinc Enriched Yeast on Blood Indices and some Biochemical Parameters in Rainbow Trout (Oncorhynchus mykiss) .Biological '),(4250,'117','Evaluation of Genotype Ã— Environment Interaction in Landraces of Common Wheat using Non-parameric Stability Indicators','Milad Zarei Soltankohi and Ezatollah Farshadfar,','150 EZATOLLAH FARSHADFAR.pdf','',1,'In order to determine stability of bread wheat genotypes field experiments were conducted for three consecutive years. Combined analysis of variance displayed significant differences between genotypes (G), environments (E) and genotypes Ã— environments interaction (GEI) indicating the presence of fluctuations between environments and genetic variability between accessions. According to the parameters Si (1), Si (2),Si(3)and Si(6) G18 had the smallest changes in ranks and is thus regarded as the most stable genotype. Biplot clustered the stability measures in 3 groups. Group 1 (G1) included yield and NPi(3). The PCs axes separated Si(1), Si(3), NP(1)NPi(2) and NPi(4)in group 2 and Si(2) and Si(6) were classified as Group 3. G1 introduced G12 as stable with high mean yield. All of the stability indices in G2 discriminated accession G8 as stable with average grain yield. Non- parametric stabilitymeasures in G3 identified G8 as the most stable genotype with average grain yield. The rank s','Bread wheat, Stability, non-parameric statistics, rank sum','In order to determine stability of bread wheat genotypes field experiments were conducted for three consecutive years. Combined analysis of variance displayed significant differences between genotypes (G), environments (E) and genotypes Ã— environments interaction (GEI) indicating the presence of fluctuations between environments and genetic variability between accessions. According to the parameters Si (1), Si (2),Si(3)and Si(6) G18 had the smallest changes in ranks and is thus regarded as the most stable genotype. Biplot clustered the stability measures in 3 groups. Group 1 (G1) included yield and NPi(3). The PCs axes separated Si(1), Si(3), NP(1)NPi(2) and NPi(4)in group 2 and Si(2) and Si(6) were classified as Group 3. G1 introduced G12 as stable with high mean yield. All of the stability indices in G2 discriminated accession G8 as stable with average grain yield. Non- parametric stabilitymeasures in G3 identified G8 as the most stable genotype with average grain yield. The rank s','Increasing the genetic potential of yield is an important objective of bothbread and durum wheat breeding programs in Iran and other countries. Bread wheat genotypes are generally evaluated in multi-environment trials (MET) to test their performance across environments and to select the best genotypes for specific environments. In most cases, GEI is significant, complicating yield improvement studies, but the release of a genotype with consistent performance over a wide range of environments should lead to stability in production (AkÃ§ura and Kaya, 2008).\r\nThere are two major approaches to study genotype by environment interactions and determining the adaptation and stability of genotypes (Becker and Leon, 1988:Huehn,1990). The most commonapproach is parametric analyses, which are based on statisticalassumptions about the distribution of genotypic, environmental and GEI effects. Another approach is nonparametricor analytical clustering, which makes no specific modeling assumptions when','Milad Zarei Soltankohi and Ezatollah Farshadfar, (2015). Evaluation of Genotype Ã— Environment Interaction in Landraces of Common Wheat using Non-parameric Stability Indicators .Biological Forum â€“ An International Journal 7(1): 945-950.'),(4251,'117','The Effect of Pseudomonas Bacteria on Maize Growth and Atrazine Biodegradation in Soil','Shahram Chegini, Behzad Sani and Hossein Hassanpour Darvishi','151 SHAHRAM CHEGINI, BEHZAD SANI AND HOSSEIN HASSANPOUR DARVISHI.pdf','',1,'To study the effect of Pseudomonas bacteria on maize growth and atrazine biodegradation, this experiment was conducted in 2013 in a field in Shahriar area, Iran. The experiment was conducted in factorial in the form of a randomized complete block design with three replications and the two factors: (1) atrazine concentration in four levels (0, 1, 2 and 3 kg/ha atrazine herbicide), and (2) Pseudomonas species in four levels (non-inoculated control, Pseudomonas fluorescence, P. putida and combination of P. fluorescence + P. putida). Measured traits included: number of row / ear, number of kernel / row, stem diameter, grain yield, and decomposition percentage of atrazine. Results showed that atrazine biodegradation was significantly affected by bacteria; the highest biodegradation rate was achieved when both species were applied together (73.92%). Moreover, results showed the significant effect of atrazine concentration, bacteria and their interaction on all measured traits. Mean compariso','Gesaprim, P. fluorescence, P. putida, Zea mays.','To study the effect of Pseudomonas bacteria on maize growth and atrazine biodegradation, this experiment was conducted in 2013 in a field in Shahriar area, Iran. The experiment was conducted in factorial in the form of a randomized complete block design with three replications and the two factors: (1) atrazine concentration in four levels (0, 1, 2 and 3 kg/ha atrazine herbicide), and (2) Pseudomonas species in four levels (non-inoculated control, Pseudomonas fluorescence, P. putida and combination of P. fluorescence + P. putida). Measured traits included: number of row / ear, number of kernel / row, stem diameter, grain yield, and decomposition percentage of atrazine. Results showed that atrazine biodegradation was significantly affected by bacteria; the highest biodegradation rate was achieved when both species were applied together (73.92%). Moreover, results showed the significant effect of atrazine concentration, bacteria and their interaction on all measured traits. Mean compariso','Maize is one of the most important food crops which is in the third rank after wheat and rice. Maize had been cultivated about 4500 B.C. in America; then it was introduced to Europe and nowadays it is being cultivated all around the world, especially in warmer climates. In Iran, it is being cultivated in nearly all areas because of sunny weather. Maize plays vital role in human and livestock food production and is also used for various industrial purposes. Maize (Zea mays L.) belongs to the Poaceae family. It is a C4 plant which benefits from warm and sunny climates (Mazaherilaghab, 2008; Nesbitt, 2005; Staller, 2010; Winch, 2006).\r\nLike other crops, maize growth and yield is seriously sensitive to weed infestation. Using chemical herbicides to control weeds is the most prominent method of weed control all over the world. Atrazine is a selective herbicide controlling broad leaf weeds in cereals and especially maize. It was first used in 1950s. It is an inhibitor of photosystem II and p','Shahram Chegini, Behzad Sani and Hossein Hassanpour Darvishi (2015). The Effect of Pseudomonas Bacteria on Maize Growth and Atrazine Biodegradation in Soil .Biological Forum â€“ An International Journal 7(1): 951-956. '),(4252,'117','Effect of Different Concentrations and Time of Nano TiO2 Spraying on Quantitative and Qualitative yield of Soybean (Glycine max L.) at Shahr-e-Qods, Iran','Farnaz Rezaei, Payam Moaveni and Hamid Mozafari','152 FARNAZ REZAEI, PAYAM MOAVENI AND HAMID MOZAFARI.pdf','',1,'The aim of the present investigation was to determine the effect of different concentrations and time of nano TiO2 spraying on quantitative and qualitative yield of soybean (Glycine max L.). Therefore, this study was conducted as split factorial based on complete randomized block design with four replications, in the year of 2013, at Shar-Qods, Iran. Treatments consisted of two factors. First factor was, different concentrations of nano titanium dioxide (0 or control, 0.01%, 0.03% and 0.05%) and the second factor was, time of spraying of this nano particle (foliar application at vegetative and reproductive stages). Traits such as height, grain weight, number of pods per plant, pod dry weight, oil percentage and seed and oil yield were evaluated in this experiment. Results of analysis variance showed that the concentration of titanium dioxide nanoparticles was significant on all traits, with the exception of oil percentage. In this experiment, it was observed that spraying of soybean pl','NanoTiO2, Quantitative and qualitative yield, Vegetative stage, Reproductive stage','It can be inferred that application of nano TiO2 0.05% as foliar application during flowering stage in soybean can improve yield component, seed yield that results in increasing of oil yield of this plant in comparison with the other treatments.\r\n\r\n','Soybean (Glycine max L) is one of the oldest crops that it contains essential amino acids (20 to 22%), protein (40%) and 18-22% oil of which 85% is cholesterol-free. Also this crop is an important legume with multifarious uses. Its cost effectiveness is ensured through biological nitrogen fixation and rotation with exhaustive crops. It replenishes and maintains soil fertility (Ngalamu et al., 2013). It is essential, implementation of ways to increasing of production. Therefore, identification of the factors that caused an increasing or decreasing in the yield, are necessary (FAO, 2008). Nanotechnology is the general term for all advanced technologies in the field of working with nano scale and means of the nano scale is particles with dimensions of 1-100 nm (Oberdorster et al., 1996).\r\nNanoparticles of titanium dioxide is one of the most important photocatalyst and considered as a unique light-activated catalyst due to strong photocatalyst properties such as high oxidative and stabilit','Farnaz Rezaei, Payam Moaveni and Hamid Mozafari (2015). Effect of Different Concentrations and Time of Nano TiO2 Spraying on Quantitative and Qualitative yield of Soybean (Glycine max L.) at Shahr-e-Qods, Iran .Biological Forum â€“ An International Journa'),(4253,'117','Effectiveness of Anger Management Training on the Quality of Marital Satisfaction of Female Elementary School Studentsâ€™ Mothers in Rasht','Zeynab Avar, Seyedeh Masoumeh Fathi-Moghaddam, Somayeh Padasht, Lida Fallah-Zabihi and Sanaz Yahyazadeh\r\n','153 ZEYNAB AVAR.pdf','',1,'The present study aims for effectiveness of anger management training on the quality of martial satisfaction of female elementary school studentsâ€™ mothers in the city of Rasht. This research is performed experimentally using a pretest-posttest design with a control group and its statistical population includes all mothers having a daughter at the age of elementary school. Statistical sample consists of 30 mothers with at least one score below the average in the marital satisfaction scale. They were randomly placed in 2 groups of fifteen. During performing this study, after sample selection and placing samples in a test group and a control group, pretest was run in both groups. Then, the test group received anger management training including eight 90-minute sessions, once a week. In order to collect data, Enrich (1989) marital satisfaction questionnaire with an alpha of 0.92 was used which was filled in through reporting in pre- and post-intervention phases. Data was statistically an','Anger Management Training, Marital Satisfaction','The present study aims for effectiveness of anger management training on the quality of martial satisfaction of female elementary school studentsâ€™ mothers in the city of Rasht. This research is performed experimentally using a pretest-posttest design with a control group and its statistical population includes all mothers having a daughter at the age of elementary school. Statistical sample consists of 30 mothers with at least one score below the average in the marital satisfaction scale. They were randomly placed in 2 groups of fifteen. During performing this study, after sample selection and placing samples in a test group and a control group, pretest was run in both groups. Then, the test group received anger management training including eight 90-minute sessions, once a week. In order to collect data, Enrich (1989) marital satisfaction questionnaire with an alpha of 0.92 was used which was filled in through reporting in pre- and post-intervention phases. Data was statistically an','Anger is a satisfactory excitement and, at the same time, devastating; it activates our internal system and prepares us for facing potential dangers (Tyler and Novaco, 2005). Researchers believe that anger will not be a healthy excitement if it is not expressed in a controlled way, especially the excitement can cause aggressive behavior (Lau, 2001). Chronic anger has negative effects on physical and mental health, social relationships and overall quality of life (Dahlen and Deffenbacher, 2001). Also, expressing anger may result in family, interpersonal, and occupational conflicts, othersâ€™ negative assessment of the person, negative self-concept, and low self-confidence (Kalameri and Peeni, 2003). Anger management and control do not mean that the person does not show their anger at all, but anger control includes expressing the anger in a consistent manner (Geresten, 2009). By teaching anger management practices to mothers, they can be made aware that in the event of an anger occurren','Zeynab Avar, Seyedeh Masoumeh Fathi-Moghaddam, Somayeh Padasht, Lida Fallah-Zabihi and Sanaz Yahyazadeh (2015).Effectiveness of Anger Management Training on the Quality of Marital Satisfaction of Female Elementary School Studentsâ€™ Mothers in Rasht .Biol'),(4254,'117','Comparative Study on the Effect of Elevation Variation in North of Iran on Hypericum perforatum Essence','Mohadese Asghari, Hormoz Fallah Amoli and Yusef Niknezhad','154 HORMOZ FALLAH AMOLI.pdf','',1,'Hypericum perforatum (HYPE) is from Hypericaceae family that use as medicinal herb. In the present investigation, the effects of elevation variation in north of Iran on HYPE essence have been studied. Experiments were carried with random plan form by 3 replications in 4 different north elevation of Iran (Fereydunkenar, Amol Azad University, Chelav and Reineh) in 2013.To identify essential oil composition and its value, GC and GC/MS and essence split method were used.The result showed that the highest elevation, the highest Nonan, pinene-Î², funebrene-Î², Cadinene delta and 5- methyl-3-heptanone (5M3HPONE). The highest amount of homolene-Î± and Caryophyllene was observed in lowest height. Also, Amol Azad University with 135 (m) height difference from sea was appropriate for maximum essence of pinene-Î±, 2-methyle octane and Cadinene-Î³. Also, it found that elevation variation had significant effect in level of 1% on essence quantities.','Elevation, Hypericum perforatum, essence','Hypericum perforatum (HYPE) is from Hypericaceae family that use as medicinal herb. In the present investigation, the effects of elevation variation in north of Iran on HYPE essence have been studied. Experiments were carried with random plan form by 3 replications in 4 different north elevation of Iran (Fereydunkenar, Amol Azad University, Chelav and Reineh) in 2013.To identify essential oil composition and its value, GC and GC/MS and essence split method were used.The result showed that the highest elevation, the highest Nonan, pinene-Î², funebrene-Î², Cadinene delta and 5- methyl-3-heptanone (5M3HPONE). The highest amount of homolene-Î± and Caryophyllene was observed in lowest height. Also, Amol Azad University with 135 (m) height difference from sea was appropriate for maximum essence of pinene-Î±, 2-methyle octane and Cadinene-Î³. Also, it found that elevation variation had significant effect in level of 1% on essence quantities.','A. Medicinal plants importance\r\nThe use of herbs to treat diseases has been coincides with mankind history (Foldes and Szasz, 1984). Today medicinal herb have assigned to their large share of Commercial pharmaceutical products (Arouei et al, 2000). Environmental factors, inheritance structure, agronomic factors and living and non-living factorsare some of key parameters for medicinal herb production (Beigi, 1997).\r\nB. The properties of Hypericum perforatum\r\nHypericum perforatum (HYPE) rarely forms thickets and usually grows in patches or narrow strips along forest edges. In the forest area, this plant also occurs in upland meadows, glades, cutover areas, and open pine or conifer small leaf forests. In the forest-steppe zone, it can be found in oak and birch groves, meadow steppes, and felling areas. In mountain regions, HYPE grows mainly on stony slopes in the foot hills, rarely ascending to the subalpine meadow belt. In addition, it occurs as a weed at roadsides, in crop fields or at ','Mohadese Asghari, Hormoz Fallah Amoli and Yusef Niknezhad (2015).Comparative Study on the Effect of Elevation Variation in North of Iran on Hypericum perforatum Essence .'),(4255,'117','Effects of Thymoquinone on Performance and Carcass Characteristics of Broiler Chickens under Oxidative Stress','Abdolhadi Rastad, Ali Asghar Sadeghi, Mohammad Chamani and Parvin Shawrang','155 ABDOLHADI RASTAD, ALI ASGHAR SADEGHI, MOHAMMAD CHAMANI AND PARVIN SHAWRANG.pdf','',1,'An experiment was conducted to determine the effect of thymoquinone under conditions with or without oxidative stress on the performance of broiler chickens. In this study 320 one-day-old broilers were randomly assigned to 8 groups, consisting of 4 replicates with 10 broilers. The treatments were assigned in a 4 Ã— 2 factorial arrangement with 4 levels of thymoquinone (0, 5, 8 and 11 mg per kg of body weight) and 2 injection levels of tert-butyl-hydroperoxide (0 or 0.2 mmol/kg body weight). Body weight (BW), feed intake (FI), and feed conversion ratio (FCR) were measured at days 10, 21 and 42. At the end of the experiment, two birds from each pen were selected and slaughtered. Thymoquinone in amount of 8 mg per kg of body weight improved BW, FI and FCR, but under condition of oxidative stress only improved FCR (P<0.05). thymoquinone consumed in quantities of 5 and 11 mg per kg of body weight without oxidative stress and in quantity of 5 mg per kg of body weight increased the weight of ','Thymoquinone, tert-BHP, Broiler, oxidative stress, Antioxidant','The use of thymoquinone at the levels of 8 and 11 mg per kilogram of body weight in the presence and absence of oxidative stress improve body weight gain and feed conversion ratio. Level of 11 mg per kilogram of body weight thymoquinone leads to accumulating the abdominal fat and we can show that by the presence of oxidative stress it can lead to weight loss of gizzard. Thymoquinone is a powerful antioxidant and it can neutralize free radicals that lead to increase antioxidant capacity.','Oxidative stress is a condition caused by an imbalance between the production of free radicals and antioxidant defense system. Primarily oxidative stress occurs due to a decreased activity of antioxidants such as gamma glutamyl-trans peptidase in the body (Uttara et al., 2009). In this situation, the increase of reactive oxygen species causes malicious damage such as lipids peroxidation and damage to proteins and then the vital cell functions such as ion transports and movement of calcium which finally lead to poor performance of the body (Stark, 2005). There are two enzymatic and non-enzymatic systems used to protect the body against oxidative damages. Non enzymatic system consists of vitamin C, vitamin E, Coenzyme Q, glutathione, Ceruloplasmin, albumin and melatonin (Somogy, 2007), and enzymatic system consists of glutathione peroxidase, glutathione reductase, superoxidase dismutase (Kesavulu, 2000). There are many different antioxidants in the plants which are classified in the cate','Abdolhadi Rastad, Ali Asghar Sadeghi, Mohammad Chamani and Parvin Shawrang (2015). Effects of Thymoquinone on Performance and Carcass Characteristics of Broiler Chickens under Oxidative Stress. Biological Forum â€“ An International Journal 7(1): 979-985 '),(4256,'117','Effects of Azospirillum Bacteria and Gibberellin Hormone on \r\nMorpho-physiological properties, Yield and Yield Components of Corn (Zea mays L.)\r\n','Behzad Lakzadeh, Tooraj Mir-Mahmoodi and Nader Jalilnezhad','156 TOORAJ MIR-MAHMOODI.pdf','',1,'To investigate the Effects of Azospirillum bacteria and Gibberellin hormone on Morpho-physiological properties, yield and yield components of Corn, a factorial experimental based on RB design was carried out in the research farm of Miyandoab agricultural office during 2014 growing season. Azospirillum bacteria in three levels (control 25g Azospirillum applying with seed and soil) and gibberellin hormone in three levels (control, 100 and 200 mg/Liter) were evaluated. Variance analysis showed that the effect of Azospirillum bio-fertilize on ear length, ear weight, cob weight, seed number per row, 1000 grain weight, biological yield, grain yield and harvest index and the effect of gibberellin hormone on all traits except Ear weight and grain yield were significant. Also, the interaction Azospirillum Ã— Gibberellin had significant effects on Chlorophyll a and b, cob weight, seed number per row, biological yield, grain yield and harvest index.Means comparison revealed that Azospirillum ap','Azospirillum, Gibberellin, Corn, Seed Yield.','Effects of Azospirillum Bacteria and Gibberellin Hormone on \r\nMorpho-physiological properties, Yield and Yield Components of Corn (Zea mays L.)\r\n','Corn is the most powerful cultivation plant and the greatest attraction and storage of free energy in the earth and in terms of energy, it is a good food for livestock and it is full of energy and it is the main food of a great number of people as directly or indirectly via livestock and vegetable products and it has the highest position in comparison with other cereals. Due to this, it is called the lord of cereals (Nourmohammadiand Kashani, 1998).\r\nOne of the major limitations in realizing potential yield of crops and achieving high yield is to supply adequate nutrients. In conventional and high input agriculture, this problem has been solved by the use of chemical fertilizers. Environmental problems caused by the excessive use of chemical fertilizers, energy and their consumption and production costs and their adverse effects on biological cycles and sustainability of ecological cropping systems are the causes of approaching bio-fertilizers application. Application of bio-fertilizer','Behzad Lakzadeh, Tooraj Mir-Mahmoodi and Nader Jalilnezhad (2015). Effects of Azospirillum Bacteria and Gibberellin Hormone on Morpho-physiological properties, Yield and Yield Components of Corn (Zea mays L.)Biological Forum â€“ An International Journal 7'),(4257,'112','Association Studies for Yield and Component Traits among Nine Bread Wheat (Triticum aestivum L.) Genotypes and their Crosses','Deepak Kumar*, I.S. Panwar, Vikram Singh, Shikha Yashveer, Ganesh Kumar Koli and Kiran','293 Association Studies for Yield and Component Traits among Nine Bread Wheat Triticum aestivum L. Genotypes and their Crosses Deepak Kumar.pdf','',1,'In order to understand the association and contribution of 13 traits towards grain yield, the correlations and path coefficients were analysed among nine different wheat genotypes and their 36 crosses. The field experiment was conducted in the research farm region of Chaudhary Charan Singh Haryana Agricultural University, Hisar in a randomise block design with three replications. Except for days to heading and days to maturity, grain yield per plant showed a positive and significant correlation with all of the studied traits. The interdependence among these characters revealed that these are controlled by a few common genes, which can be ultimately used as selection criteria in breeding programmes. Positive selection for one characteristic would improve linked traits as well. The path coefficient study found that the degree of the positive direct effect on grain yield was largest through number of grains per spike (0.631), 100 grain weight (0.714), biological yield per plant (0.63), an','Wheat, Correlation, traits, improvement and yield','In present study, association analysis revealed that the characters viz, number of productive tillers per plant, number of grains per plant, 100 grain weight, biological yield per plant, and harvest index showed positive and significant relationship with grain yield at the genotypic as well as phenotypic level. While path coefficient analysis revealed that same traits exhibited highest positive direct effect on grain yield and each must be given preference in selection along with optimum plant height and spike length while selecting the superior genotypes. Hence these characters can be directly selected for the yield improvement in bread wheat. Thus, selection of genotypes based on the associated character will be useful in development of elite breeding lines.','INTRODUCTION\r\nWheat (Triticum aestivum L.) is one of the important food crops in most parts of the globe, and it ranks second after rice in Indian agriculture. Knowledge of the number, nature, and contribution of gene effects to control characteristics is critical for developing an effective wheat breeding programme. Selection for grain yield and their enhancement can only be effective if there is enough genetic variability in the breeding materials (Ali et al., 2008). To boost total yield, our goal must be to maximise the effects of the components that have a positive effect while reducing the effects of the components that have a negative effect. Correlation analysis can be a effective approach for determining the interdependencies among yield and itâ€™s component traits. Genetic variability and correlation analysis help us in the identification of genetic association between various plant traits and their association with the overall productivity levels (Haydar et al., 2020). The co','How to cite this article: Deepak Kumar, I.S. Panwar, Vikram Singh, Shikha Yashveer, Ganesh Kumar Koli and Kiran (2022). Association Studies for Yield and Component Traits Among Nine Bread Wheat (Triticum aestivum L.) Genotypes and their Crosses. Biologica'),(4258,'112','Association Studies for Yield and Component Traits among Nine Bread Wheat (Triticum aestivum L.) Genotypes and their Crosses','Deepak Kumar*, I.S. Panwar, Vikram Singh, Shikha Yashveer, Ganesh Kumar Koli and Kiran','293 Association Studies for Yield and Component Traits among Nine Bread Wheat Triticum aestivum L. Genotypes and their Crosses Deepak Kumar.pdf','',1,'In order to understand the association and contribution of 13 traits towards grain yield, the correlations and path coefficients were analysed among nine different wheat genotypes and their 36 crosses. The field experiment was conducted in the research farm region of Chaudhary Charan Singh Haryana Agricultural University, Hisar in a randomise block design with three replications. Except for days to heading and days to maturity, grain yield per plant showed a positive and significant correlation with all of the studied traits. The interdependence among these characters revealed that these are controlled by a few common genes, which can be ultimately used as selection criteria in breeding programmes. Positive selection for one characteristic would improve linked traits as well. The path coefficient study found that the degree of the positive direct effect on grain yield was largest through number of grains per spike (0.631), 100 grain weight (0.714), biological yield per plant (0.63), an','Wheat, Correlation, traits, improvement and yield','In present study, association analysis revealed that the characters viz, number of productive tillers per plant, number of grains per plant, 100 grain weight, biological yield per plant, and harvest index showed positive and significant relationship with grain yield at the genotypic as well as phenotypic level. While path coefficient analysis revealed that same traits exhibited highest positive direct effect on grain yield and each must be given preference in selection along with optimum plant height and spike length while selecting the superior genotypes. Hence these characters can be directly selected for the yield improvement in bread wheat. Thus, selection of genotypes based on the associated character will be useful in development of elite breeding lines.','INTRODUCTION\r\nWheat (Triticum aestivum L.) is one of the important food crops in most parts of the globe, and it ranks second after rice in Indian agriculture. Knowledge of the number, nature, and contribution of gene effects to control characteristics is critical for developing an effective wheat breeding programme. Selection for grain yield and their enhancement can only be effective if there is enough genetic variability in the breeding materials (Ali et al., 2008). To boost total yield, our goal must be to maximise the effects of the components that have a positive effect while reducing the effects of the components that have a negative effect. Correlation analysis can be a effective approach for determining the interdependencies among yield and itâ€™s component traits. Genetic variability and correlation analysis help us in the identification of genetic association between various plant traits and their association with the overall productivity levels (Haydar et al., 2020). The co','How to cite this article: Deepak Kumar, I.S. Panwar, Vikram Singh, Shikha Yashveer, Ganesh Kumar Koli and Kiran (2022). Association Studies for Yield and Component Traits Among Nine Bread Wheat (Triticum aestivum L.) Genotypes and their Crosses. Biologica'),(4259,'117','Relationships between Traits of Wheat Using Multivariate Analysis','Seyed Ali Moetamadipoor, Mohtasham Mohammadi, Gholam Reza Bakhshi Khaniki and Rahmat Allah Karimizadeh','157 SEYED ALI MOETAMADI POOR.pdf','',1,'Drought is one of the main confining factors for production of crops such as wheat in the world. Current study aims at investigating relationship between morpho-phonological traits and yield using multivariate statistical method of factor analysis under drought stress in 18 phenotypes of bread wheat. Factor analysis based on extraction of latent roots through principal components analysis of seven factors was included in the model. Results showed these factors overall justify 87.7% of variation in traits. Two first factors justified total variation of traits as 17% and 16%, respectively and they were entitled as yield and yield components factor and maturity factor. Results obtained from studying factor coefficients indicate importance of traits affecting yield and traits related to early maturity in selection of optimal genotypes for drought conditions. Thus, these two factors can be used as criteria for selection in wheat breeding programs under drought conditions','Drought stress, Factor analysis, Principal components analysis.','In order to achieve increase in yield, determination of a selection criterion in wheat breeding programs in crucially importance. Since inheritability of yield is low, thus selection of genotypes based on yield is not much effective, thus selection for increasing yield should be done through yield components and selection criteria. Considering complex relationships between traits, final judgment cannot be done based on simple correlation coefficients. Thus, it is necessary to use factor analysis technique for deeper understanding of relationship between traits. Overall results taken from factor analysis showed 7 factors had eigenvalues larger than 1 and these factors justified overall 87.7 % of variation in the traits under study. Two first factors justified highest variation in traits and they were named as yield factor and yield components factor. Thus, selection based on these factors would lead to increased yield and early maturity of wheat genotypes for evading drought stress of t','Drought is one of the limiting factors for production of crops including wheat in the world and Iran and it is more important in arid and semi-arid areas of the world. Drought is a serious factor in sever reduction of wheat yield in developing countries which constitute about 37 % of areas for growth of wheat (Rajaram, 2001). Thus, evaluation of various wheat lines is necessary for understanding genotypes tolerating drought for increasing the crops. Realization of this goal requires implementation of extensive breeding programs to increase resistance to drought. Breeders seek for achieving genotypes which are optimal in terms of yield components. Yield is a quantitative trait and it is controlled by a large numbers of genes. Thus, selection based on yield may not be successful for its improvement and promotion (Richards, 1996). Morphological traits can be easily and accurately measured and they have relatively high inheritability. Hence, selection based on traits may be secure and rapi','Seyed Ali Moetamadipoor, Mohtasham Mohammadi, Gholam Reza Bakhshi Khaniki and Rahmat Allah Karimizadeh (2015). Relationships between Traits of Wheat Using Multivariate Analysis. Biological Forum â€“ An International Journal 7(1): 994-997.'),(4260,'112','Performance of Water Users Cooperative Societies in Krishna Command Area, Karnataka','Akkamahadevi Naik* and M. Shivamurthy','294 Performance of Water Users Cooperative Societies in Krishna Command Area, Karnataka Akkamahadevi Naik.pdf','',1,'Present study was conducted in Krishna Command Area at Vijayapura, Kalaburagi and Yadgiri districts of Karnataka to assess the Performance of Water Users Cooperative Societies (WUCS) in Krishna Command Area. Data was collected through personal interview method from eight WUCS. The results indicated that, WUCS 1, 2,3,5,6 were showing fully achieved for the indicator, group leaders to be selected followed by WUCS 4,7,8 were moderately achieved. Similarly, in the second indicator i.e., total elected members in group (Male &Female) WUCS 1,2,3,5,6,7 were fully achieved followed by WUCS 4,8 were not Achieved etc. Out of eight WUCS, four WUCS were showing moderate (50.00 %) performance level followed by two WUCS had better (25.00 %) performance level and two were comes under poor (25.00 %) performance level. Overall performance with respect to individual WUCS and per cent value has been calculated for each societies based on their performance level, the values obtained under each societies we','Performance, Water Users Cooperative Societies, Indicators, canal irrigation water and Distributories','It can be concluded that majority of the WUCS were showing moderate performance level (50.00 %). Out of eight WUCS, WUCS1 was ranked first followed by WUCS5 (Rank II), WUCS3 (Rank III), WUCS6 was ranks fourth, WUCS2 (Rank V), WUCS7 (Rank VI) and WUCS4 (Rank VII) and WUCS8 (Rank VIII) respectively. There is a need to follow warabandi schedule among all the eight WUCS, timely meeting on water management practices, cleaning and maintaining of field channels, follow-up activities by CADA officials and timely collection of water tax. There should be a strict imposing of rule and penalty for those WUCS use water indiscriminately.','INTRODUCTION\r\nThe most important natural resource and universal asset is rainfall water. But due to the uncertain nature of rainfall in India makes it essential to provide an insurance against crop failure through providing assured irrigation facilities, thus irrigation plays an important role in maintaining the food security in India. Irrigation source in India is mainly from three sources viz. canals, wells and tanks. Out of the total area under irrigation, 40 per cent are irrigated by canals, 40 per cent by wells or tube wells and 12 per cent by tanks. The rest 8 per cent of land are irrigated by other methods (Anon., 2017). \r\nDue to lack of knowledge on water management practices and slight or no participation from farmers has aggravated the improper utilisation of canal irrigation water among the head reach and tail end farmers. Management of effective canal irrigation water in our country has been organized with proper planning and implementation activities, formulation of guidel','Akkamahadevi Naik and M. Shivamurthy (2022). Performance of Water Users Cooperative Societies in Krishna Command Area, Karnataka. Biological Forum â€“ An International Journal, 14(1): 1671-1675.'),(4261,'117','The Effect of Earthworm (Eisenia fetida) and Vermihumus Meal in Diet on Broilers Chicken Efficiency and Carcass Components','Zivar Bahadori, Ladan Esmaylzadeh and Mohammad Amir Karimi Torshizi','158 LADAN ESMAYLZADEH.pdf','',1,'The present study evaluated the effects of different levels of earthworm (Eisenia fetida) and vermihumus meal on broiler chicken efficiency and carcass components. For this purpose, 300 one-d old broiler chickens (Ross 308) were tested in a completely randomized design with 5 dietary treatments (1. control, 2.1% vermihumus meal, 3. 1% earthworm meal + 1% vermihumus meal, 4.2% earthworm meal + 1% vermihumus meal, 5.3% earthworm meal + 1% vermihumus meal) and 5 replications in which 12 chickens were randomly divided in each pen. The results showed that feed intake and feed conversion ratio significantly decreased in whole period with increasing the amount of earthworm meal (P <0.05). The effect of experimental treatments was not significant on weight gain (P> 0.05). The effect of treatment on some carcass components was not significant (P> 0.05). In total, the results showed that 2% and 3% of earthworm meal improved the feed conversion ratio of broiler chickens.','broiler chicken, earthworm meal, vermihumus, efficiency, carcass components','According to the results, it can be stated that feeding the broilers with diets containing earthworm meal and vermihumus do not have a significant effect on protein and energy efficiency as well as consumed protein and efficiency. The effect of experimental treatments on some carcass components was not significant. Thus, it can be concluded that using 1% vermihumus and 3% earthworm meal have negative effect on carcass components.\r\n\r\n','In most countries, the poultry industry depends on imported feeds, especially feeds rich in protein and energy. This leads to an increase in poultry production costs, which ultimately results in an increase in the market price of poultry meat. Chicken consumption has increased in recent years. Since 2007 by now, chicken consumption has increased by 3 kg per person (13 percent growth). Thereby, poultry industry is important due to high demand for animal protein but most of those involved in the industry encounter some problems (Mirzaei et al., 2012). On the other hand, poultry industry requires alternative sources of animal protein due to high cost of high-quality fish meal for poultry feed and decline of fish stocks and competition for feeding livestock, especially in developing countries (Sales and Janssens, 2006). Some of these alternatives are meat and bone meal, hydrolyzed feather meal, blood meal, snail meal, silkworm pupae, earthworm meal, vermicompost, etc. These feedstuffs shou','Zivar Bahadori, Ladan Esmaylzadeh and Mohammad Amir Karimi Torshizi (2015).The Effect of Earthworm (Eisenia fetida) and Vermihumus Meal in Diet on Broilers Chicken Efficiency and Carcass Components .Biological Forum â€“ An International Journal 7('),(4262,'112','Morphological Characterization of Mango (Mangifera indica L.) Cultivars','Durgam Sridhar*, Bikash Ghosh, Arpita Das and Krishnendu Pramanik','295 Morphological Characterization of Mango Mangifera indica L. Cultivars Durgam Sridhar.pdf','',1,'Plant, leaf, inflorescence, fruit, stone and seed characteristics of 16 mango cultivars were studied from 2016 to 2018 at All India Coordinated Research Project on Fruits at Regional Research Station, Gayeshpur, West Bengal. Utilization of the conserved germplasm in the breeding program requires precise information on the genetic relationships among the cultivars.\r\nTherefore, an attempt was made to study morphological characterization in mango. All the morphological observations were taken as per the IPGRI descriptors for mango. Observations were recorded on various morphological parameters like qualitative and quantitative characters. The wide variation was observed in crown shape, colour of young leaf, leaf blade length and width, regularity of flowering, inflorescence colour, length and width, pulp colour, and texture. Maximum inflorescence length (45.50 cm) and width (31.74 cm) were found in Kamala Bhog. The highest stone weight and seed weight were observed in Gopi Bhog (46.40 g) ','Mango, Qualitative, Characterization, Variation, Improvement','The study on morphological characterization of mango cultivars showed that there have variations among the cultivars. It helps to select cultivars based on desirable characters. Many efforts were made to understand the variability of mango germplasm and cultivars identification. Earlier, morphological characteristics were used to establish and identify cultivars and the simplest and easiest way and are considered the first step for evaluating the genetic diversity. The actual identity of some cultivars is still unclear because some of these characteristics differed from year to year as affected by environmental conditions and agricultural practices. Therefore, there is a great need to identify mango cultivars at the molecular level. Unlike the agronomic and morphologic characteristics, the molecular markers are not subject to the environmental effect.','INTRODUCTION\r\nMango (Mangifera indica L.) is one of the choicest and most admired fruit crops of the tropical and subtropical areas of the world (Joshi et al., 2013). Its significance can easily be recognized by the fact that it is known as â€˜King of Fruitsâ€™. The utilization of germplasm with distinctive characteristics in breeding programs desires precise information to develop new cultivars (Vasugi et al., 2012). India is the centre of origin for cultivated mango and is distributed in tropical and subtropical regions. Mango has been cultivated in India for more than 4000 years. Mango is native to India and occurs abundantly in forests and cultivated areas. Hence, it is difficult to differentiate true wild forms from cultivated ones. The cross-pollination nature and a wide range of prevailing agro-climatic conditions have contributed to its wide genetic diversity in India (Mukherjee, 1972).\r\nMorphological data are imperative in preliminary germplasm evaluation as they consist of tr','Durgam Sridhar, Bikash Ghosh, Arpita Das and Krishnendu Pramanik (2022). Morphological characterization of Mango (Mangifera indica L.) Cultivars. Biological Forum â€“ An International Journal, 14(1): 1676-1682.'),(4263,'117','Effect of Malva sylvestris on Performance, Growth and Morphology of Small Intestine in Broiler Chickens','Behnam Kiani, Ardeshir Hafcy Kordestany and Hossein Ansari','159 BEHNAM KIANI.pdf','',1,'This study attempts to examine the effect of malva on performance, growth, cecal microflora and morphology of small intestine in broiler chickens. In this study, a total of 360 one-day broiler chickens (Ross 308 strain) were purchased from a factory called Morghe-Madar based in Salim-Jujeh Miandoab, Iran. There were 6 treatments each entailing 3 replications in which 20 one-day chickens were involved. The experimental conditions were identical in all the treatments, except for the diets varying according to additives. Moreover, the chickens were reared for 42 days, during which water was administered freely and seeds were given in a standard way. The control treatment or basic diet (free of antibiotic, free of malva) and the alternative treatment including the basic diet plus 150 mg of antibiotic in 1 kg of malva-free diet, while there were 100, 200, 300 and 400 mg of malva present in one kilogram of the diet. The feed intake and weight gain were recorded and performance traits were me','Malva, virginiamycin, performance, villi length, crypt depth','The level of feed intake during the fourth week in the control and sixth treatment with 400 mg/kg of malva \r\n\r\n\r\nshowed a significant difference, similar to the sixth treatment at the sixth week with 400 mg/kg oh malva. \r\n \r\n Kiani, Kordestany and Ansari 1016 \r\n \r\nThis significance level can actually be due to experimental error or measurements instruments, since malva has high amount of fibers as well as anti-inflammatory effect for the intestine, highly palatable and generally all the experiments conducted so far have not concerned the effect of malva on feed intake. The mean of weight in the treatments showed no significant difference in all the weeks (P<0.05). However, there was the highest mean of weight in the sixth treatment which was substantially different from the control treatment. Next to that, there was the fifth trea','The rapidly growing development of population today on the one hand and the diminishing of natural feed sources on the other have compelled humans toward more economical feed production. The international World Health Organization and Feed and Agriculture Organization have since 1949 working on improvement in quantity of nutrients and quality of ingredients. Proteins are especially important because they cannot, unlike carbohydrates, be stored in the body, thus making it essential in the diet. Proteins play various roles in the body such as production of enzymes, nurturing and preserving tissues, production of hormones, antibodies and maintaining balance between water and electrolytes as well as acid-alkali balance in body tampons and finally, production of energy in case of insufficient carbohydrates and fat (Iowa State University, 2014). In recent years, the consumption of poultry meat has become popular and there has been special attention paid on rearing broiler chickens. Nutrition','Behnam Kiani, Ardeshir Hafcy Kordestany and Hossein Ansari (2015). Effect of Malva sylvestris on Performance, Growth and Morphology of Small Intestine in Broiler Chickens .Biological Forum â€“ An International Journal 7(1): 1006-1016.'),(4264,'117','The effect of different Concentrations of Growth Regulators on Explants of Vegetative parts of Charmomile (Matricaria chamomilla L.)\r\n','Ehsaneh Khodadadi, Baratali Fakheri, Abbasali Emamjomeh Leila Fahmideh and Ehsan Khodadadi\r\n','160 EHSANEH KHODADADI.pdf','',1,'Chamomile (Matricaria chamomilla L.) is one of the most important herbal medicine plants. The aim of this research was to study effect of different concentrations of growth regulators of Auxin on callus induction and growth in Chamomileâ€™s various explants; factors were: NAA at four levels (0, 1, 2, 4 mg l-1) Kinetin at four levels (0, 0.5, 1, 2 mg.l-1), explants cultured on basal MS medium containing growth regulators. We found that callus initiation in explants was faster at 1 mg l -1 NAA and 1 mg l -1 Kinetin. Leaf explants on a medium containing 1 mgl -1 NAA and 1 mg l-1 Kinetin has been highest percentage of callus induction with an average of 93.26 percent. Axillary bud and stem discs explants have been the highest percentage of callus induction with an average of 89.68 and 80.75 %, respectively, is obtained in same treatment combination. The effect of different concentrations of NAA and Kinetin on callus volume that derived from different explants is significant and stem explan','Chamomile, auxin, callus induction, MS medium','Chamomile (Matricaria chamomilla L.) is one of the most important herbal medicine plants. The aim of this research was to study effect of different concentrations of growth regulators of Auxin on callus induction and growth in Chamomileâ€™s various explants; factors were: NAA at four levels (0, 1, 2, 4 mg l-1) Kinetin at four levels (0, 0.5, 1, 2 mg.l-1), explants cultured on basal MS medium containing growth regulators. We found that callus initiation in explants was faster at 1 mg l -1 NAA and 1 mg l -1 Kinetin. Leaf explants on a medium containing 1 mgl -1 NAA and 1 mg l-1 Kinetin has been highest percentage of callus induction with an average of 93.26 percent. Axillary bud and stem discs explants have been the highest percentage of callus induction with an average of 89.68 and 80.75 %, respectively, is obtained in same treatment combination. The effect of different concentrations of NAA and Kinetin on callus volume that derived from different explants is significant and stem explan','Chamomile (Matricaria chamomilla L.) is one of the most important herbal medicine plants (Haghiet al., 2004). This plants have pharmaceutical properties and used for the treatment of many diseases, Chamomile plant has been used for anti-inflammatory (Azizi, 2006), Anti-allergy, Relaxing, And to treatment of skin rashes or acne and skin infections, German chamomile (Matricaria chamomilla L.) and Roman chamomile (Chamaemelumnobile) are the two major types of chamomile used for health conditions (Kintzios & Michaelakis, 1999; Murashige & Skoog, 1962). A number of researchers believe that MC is able to do everything (Salamon, 1992). Cultured plant cells and tissues are widely recognized as promising alternatives for the production of valuable secondary metabolites (McKay& Blumberg, 2006). Currently, MC propagated by seed, But due to the low content of secondary metabolites; its production is inefficient and costly (Nirr, 2003) and needs a lot of manpower and time. Therefore, the study of t','Ehsaneh Khodadadi, Baratali Fakheri, Abbasali Emamjomeh Leila Fahmideh and Ehsan Khodadadi (2015). The effect of different Concentrations of Growth Regulators on Explants of Vegetative parts of Charmomile (Matricaria chamomilla L.) .Biological Forum â€“ '),(4265,'112','Optimizing the Substrates and Container for Enhancing the Bio Efficiency of Pleurotus florida','Ramesh Kumar R.*, Darwin Christdhas Henry L., Ayyandurai M. and Kokila A.','296 Optimizing the Substrates and Container for Enhancing the Bio Efficiency of Pleurotus florida Ramesh Kumar R.pdf','',1,'Biological efficiency of mushroom cultivation is very important one. The problematic issue in mushroom cultivation is selection of suitable substrate and container, which make a profitable biological efficiency. Mushroom is an important diet food. Which cultivated all over the world. For getting more output many substrates used commercially. Many lingocellulosic substrates used for the cultivation of the mushroom and also paddy straw required the least no of days for spawn running and pinhead initiation with the maximum yield and biological efficiency, followed by banana leaves in combination with rice straw at (1:3) ratio. Adding urea @ 0. 1% conc. to the substrate was found to slightly improve the yield and biological efficiency of the substrate. Different containers viz., Plastic bottles 200g, plastic containers 300 g, mud pots 400g, perforated dustbins and polythene bags of 500 g. capacity of paddy straw (dry weight) were tried to evaluate the biological efficiency of P. florida a','Paddy straw, containers, Urea, P. florida, Inorganic nitrogen source','From these research paddy straw required least no of days for spawn running and pinhead initiation with the maximum yield and biological efficiency followed by adding urea @ 0. 1% conc. to the substrate was found to slightly improve the yield and biological efficiency of the substrate and also semi transparent plastic containers recorded a biological efficiency of 131.02% and 124.89% respectively. Above the outputs based we have framed the cultivation of mushroom led to the highest biological efficiency. ','INTRODUCTION\r\nA substrate is any material or substance that serves as a medium of growth for a living thing in which enzymes can act upon and break it to release nutrients for the growing organism. Pleurotus species is a wood digesting fungi, which was first cultivated on logs (Ingale and Ramteke 2010). During the year 2017, 10 million tonnes of mushrooms were produced globally with major contributions from China (77%), Europe (12%), United States of America (4%), and India (1%) (FAOSTAT 2017). The poor management of the waste and effluents from households, industries, and agricultural fields is further deteriorating the already crippling ecosystem (Akhtar and Amin-ul Mannan, 2020). The protein content of mushrooms varies from 4-44% according to the species (Okoro and Achuba, 2012). Mushrooms can utilize a large variety of agricultural waste products and transform the lignocellulosic biomass into food of high quality, flavor and nutritive value. It can also decrease air pollution and e','Ramesh Kumar R., Darwin Christdhas Henry L., Ayyandurai M. and Kokila A. (2022). Optimizing the Substrates and Container for Enhancing the Bio Efficiency of Pleurotus florida. Biological Forum â€“ An International Journal, 14(1): 1683-1687.'),(4266,'117','Influence of Super Absorbent, Drought Stress and Nitrogen Fertilizer on some Characteristic of Trachyspermum ammi','Ebrahim Sabbagh, Jahanfar Daneshian, Saeed Sayf Zadeh, Seyed Kazem Sabbagh Sharaf Abadi and Hamid Reza Fanaei\r\n','161 EBRAHIM SABBAGH.pdf','',1,'Desi Ajwain (Trachyspermum ammi) is an aromatic herb. It belongs to family apiaceae (Umbelliferae). This plant has several medical uses. It is very widely grown in black soil, particularly along the river banks in Egypt as well as many other countries like India, Iran and Afghanistan as mentioned. The plants under dry condition change their metabolism to overcome the changed environmental condition. The complexity response of the plant to the drought stress could be justified. Seed germination is one of the most important phases in the life cycle of plant and is highly responsive to existing environment. Nitrogen deficiency generally results in stunted growth and chlorotic leaves caused by poor assimilate formation that leads to premature flowering and shortening of the growth cycle. The presence of n in excess promotes development of the above ground aground organs with abundant dark green (high chlorophyll) tissues of soft consistency and relatively poor root growth. SAR is a new hig','Root weight, Plant weight, Number of seed in plant, Plant height','Desi Ajwain (Trachyspermum ammi) is an aromatic herb. It belongs to family apiaceae (Umbelliferae). This plant has several medical uses. It is very widely grown in black soil, particularly along the river banks in Egypt as well as many other countries like India, Iran and Afghanistan as mentioned. The plants under dry condition change their metabolism to overcome the changed environmental condition. The complexity response of the plant to the drought stress could be justified. Seed germination is one of the most important phases in the life cycle of plant and is highly responsive to existing environment. Nitrogen deficiency generally results in stunted growth and chlorotic leaves caused by poor assimilate formation that leads to premature flowering and shortening of the growth cycle. The presence of n in excess promotes development of the above ground aground organs with abundant dark green (high chlorophyll) tissues of soft consistency and relatively poor root growth. SAR is a new hig','Desi Ajwain (Trachyspermum ammi L.) is an aromatic herb. It belongs to family Apiaceae (Umbelliferae). This plant has several medical uses. It is very widely grown in black soil, particularly along the river banks in Egypt as well as many other countries like India, Iran and Afghanistan as mentioned by Boskabady and Shaikhi (2000). It is highly esteemed as a remedial agent for flatulence, flatulent colic, tonic dyspepsia, diarrhoea - in short, as a digestive aid and also as an antiseptic (Cragg and Newman (2005). Water is commonly the most limiting factor in intensive orchards all over the world. Consequently, drought stress is a situation fruit trees have to deal with frequently. The increasing worldwide shortages of water are leading to an emphasis on developing thrifty irrigation systems and planting resistant plants. In recent years there has been a wide range of proposed novel approaches to irrigation scheduling which are based on sensing the plant response to water deficit direct','Ebrahim Sabbagh, Jahanfar Daneshian, Saeed Sayf Zadeh, Seyed Kazem Sabbagh Sharaf Abadi and Hamid Reza Fanaei (2015). Influence of Super Absorbent, Drought Stress and Nitrogen Fertilizer on some Characteristic of Trachyspermum ammi .Biological Forum â€“ A'),(4267,'117','Evaluation of Eight models in Predicting Software Weka Potential Evapotranspiration month for the next month in the Synoptic Weather station Babolsar','Seyyed Hassan Mirhashemi and Mehdi Panahi','162 SEYYED HASSAN MIRHASHEMI.pdf','',1,'In this paper have been evaluated the ability of eight models of weka software to estimation â€œMonthly potential evapotranspiration months later,â€ for Babolsar synoptic weather stations. That is including additive Regression, Bagging, Linear Regression, Zero, M5P, Kstar, M5Rules and REPTree. The data used in this article, are the average monthly data of Babolsar weather station, including: â€œaverage temperatureâ€, â€œsunshine hoursâ€, â€œdew pointâ€, â€œrelative humidityâ€, â€œaverage wind speedâ€ and â€œsaturation vapor pressure deficitâ€ in forty-six-year period from 1960 to 2005 AD. Output variables used, was â€œMonthly potential evapotranspiration months later,â€ as monthly basis. After introducing the weather data as mean monthly to the algorithm as input variables and monthly potential evapotranspiration months later, as the output variables, models â€œdata miningâ€ were evaluated using â€œcorrelation coefficientâ€, â€œRoot Mean Square Errorâ€ and â€œmean absolute e','â€œData miningâ€ weka, Penman-Monteith equation, potential evapotranspiration, synoptic weather station, Babolsar','From this study it can be concluded that Techniques of â€œdata miningâ€ such Weka software models can be used to estimate evapotranspiration potential of the next month. \r\nBagging model with an estimate of monthly potential evapotranspiration for the next month is shown that can have a high capacity to estimating meteorological parameters. \r\nThis model can be used to estimate â€œpotential evapotranspirationâ€ used in a variety of stations that are deficient in recorded meteorological parameters. \r\nIt was concluded from Table 2: Sensitivity to model weather Bagging enter the six parameters, including â€œaverage temperatureâ€ (c), â€œsunny hoursâ€ (h), â€œdew point temperatureâ€ (c), â€œThe average relative humidityâ€ (%), â€œ The average speed wind â€œ(meters per second) andâ€ saturation vapor pressure deficit â€œ(mbar) as â€œinput variablesâ€ have the best performance, relative to the composition of the other parameters in Table 2.\r\n','Properly estimate evapotranspiration is crucial to water resources management, irrigation scheduling and evaluate the effect of â€œLand Use Changeâ€ on â€œefficiency and provision of crop water needsâ€. Physical and â€œsemi-theoreticalâ€ models proposed to modeling potential evapotranspiration, the most complex and needs many weather variables. For this reason, models and other techniques such as â€œmultiple regressionâ€, â€œfactor analysisâ€, â€œartificial networkâ€ and â€œmodern methodsâ€ data miningâ€ used to estimate these quantities and determine the influence. Recently, a new data mining techniques have been successfully used in environmental sciences. Meteorological data those are measured and archives at different stations included a large volume of information and are increasing their volume over time. Accordingly, most felt the need for new methods of â€œdata miningâ€ of them. In some cases, a lot of variables are used that may be some of them are not measure in all','Seyyed Hassan Mirhashemi and Mehdi Panahi (2015). Evaluation of Eight models in Predicting Software Weka Potential Evapotranspiration month for the next month in the Synoptic Weather station Babolsar .Biological Forum â€“ An International Journal '),(4268,'117','Global Crisis of Weed Resistance to Herbicides','Shahabaldin Mirinejad and Mehdi Dastyaran','163 SHAHABALDIN MIRINEJAD.pdf','',1,'In this paper, at first was introduced a short history of herbicide-resistance weeds in many agricultural products. Then, the main types of herbicide-resistance weeds in Iran and in various parts of the world was studied and compared. About 30 years ago, for the first time, the resistance of weeds against the Triazine herbicide is reported. This report was a prologue to the next researches in the examination of intricate mechanism of herbicide resistance weeds against crops. According to the diversity of weeds and various ecosystems in various parts of the world, there is not a unique solution for suppressing the herb weeds. Close cooperation among agricultural academies, industry and farmers is an essential tool for achieving the unique management strategy for the control of herbicide-resistance weeds. ','History of Herbicide â€“ Agricultural crop â€“ Weeds Control - Triazine','In this paper, at first was introduced a short history of herbicide-resistance weeds in many agricultural products. Then, the main types of herbicide-resistance weeds in Iran and in various parts of the world was studied and compared. About 30 years ago, for the first time, the resistance of weeds against the Triazine herbicide is reported. This report was a prologue to the next researches in the examination of intricate mechanism of herbicide resistance weeds against crops. According to the diversity of weeds and various ecosystems in various parts of the world, there is not a unique solution for suppressing the herb weeds. Close cooperation among agricultural academies, industry and farmers is an essential tool for achieving the unique management strategy for the control of herbicide-resistance weeds. ','Farmers always face problem of weed resistance to herbicides in the farms. Weed control technique was started since thousands years ago by weeding by hand and gradually later agricultural tools and machinery were also used so that finally it led to biological and chemical control.\r\nIn 1347 the first 2,4 â€“ dichlorophenoxy and MCPA herbicides were produced which had considerable effects on increasing agricultural crops trend (Avery, 1995). Using herbicides in consecutive years and competition between agricultural varieties caused that population of Short leg yielding crop varieties was increased (Piment, 1997).\r\nInsecticide, fungicide and bacteria before weeds were resistant to herbicides. Weed resistance to herbicides is because of the durability and stability of pesticides in the environment and mutations in the weeds (Roush and Mac kenize, 1987). \r\nConstant use of the herbicide against population of weeds causes resistance in them. The initial herbicides widely used were 2, 4 â€“ di','Shahabaldin Mirinejad and Mehdi Dastyaran (2015) .Global Crisis of Weed Resistance to Herbicides .Biological Forum â€“ An International Journal 7(1): 1033-1036 .'),(4269,'117','Evaluation and Chemical Comparison of Triple-Zero Canola Cultivars with Emphasis on the Extracted Oil','Sahar Abrehdari, Mehrdad Ghavami, Maryam Gharachorloo and Babak Delkhosh','164 SAHAR ABREHDARI.pdf','',1,'Due to insufficient production of edible oil in Iran and its substantial import, much attention should be paid to resources of edible oil in the country. Colza is a crop rich in oil and its cultivation can decrease the dependence on other countries for oil, as well as reducing the required foreign currency for importing it. This research dealt with evaluation and chemical comparison of triple-zero canola cultivars with emphasis on nutritional values of the extracted oil, and introduced superior cultivars with respect to the tested characteristics.\r\nSeven samples were selected completely at random among the improved canola cultivars produced by the Seed and Plant Improvement Institute in Karaj. The oil in each sample was extracted using solvents, and its chemical characteristics were studied separately including fatty acid composition and contents of non-saponifiable compounds, sterols, to copherols, copper, and iron.\r\nGKH-HELENA was the best cultivar with respect to oleic acid content ','Sterol, fatty acid composition, tocopherol, canola oil, non-saponifiable compounds','Due to the insufficient supply of edible oils in the country, and because of the large quantities of imported oil, much attention should be paid to oil resources of the country. Canola is a crop rich in oil, and can reduce the dependence on foreign edible oil, as well as preventing foreign currency expenditure for oil imports. The best canola cultivar with respect to oleic acid content, long period of oxidative resistance, and high content of non-saponifiable compounds was GKH-HELENA, while the maximum sterol content belonged to LICORD, and the highest tocopherol content was observed inWRH-262. ','Colza (Brassica napus), a member of the Cruciferae family, is an amphidiploid species resulting from a cross between certain forms of cabbage and turnip in nature. It is an annual plant and has spring and autumn types. Aside from B. napus, other Brassica species (Brassica capestris or field mustard, Brassica nigra or black mustard, and Brassica carinata or Ethiopian mustard) are also called colza in international markets (Shariati and Shahnizadeh, 2000).\r\nCanola cultivars have been developed with oil that is rich in oleic acid (60-85%), greatly resembles olive oil, and is very stable and has limited amounts of trans fatty acids (Hui, 1996). Canola oil is a relatively good source of tocopherols and its total to copherol content is close to corn, cottonseed, saffron, and sunflower oils (60-70 mg/100 g). Only soybean oil, with 100-110 mg/100g, contains more tocopherol than canola oil. Total sterol content in canola oil is about 0.53-0.97%. Brassicasterol is one of the sterols that is foun','Sahar Abrehdari, Mehrdad Ghavami, Maryam Gharachorloo and Babak Delkhosh (2015). Evaluation and Chemical Comparison of Triple-Zero Canola Cultivars with Emphasis on the Extracted Oil . Biological Forum â€“ An International Journal 7(1): 1037-1044.'),(4270,'117','Impact of Withering time duration on some Biochemical Properties and Sensory Quality Attributes of Black Tea','Farshad Soheili-Fard, Hamid Reza Ghassemzadeh and Seyed Babak Salvatian','165 FARSHAD SOHEILI-FARD.pdf','',1,'Withering as first stage in black tea manufacturing is very important for producing black tea with high quality. During the tea green leaf withering, reduction in moisture content of the tea leaves is accompanied by occurrence of biochemical interactions that play an important role in black tea quality. Withering stage includes two parts as physical and biochemical withering. Withering time duration play an important role in biochemical interactions. In the present study, impact of withering time on the quality of black tea was examined based on environmental conditions and green tea quality through colorimetriy experiments and sensory quality evaluation by tea tasters. Also tea water extract was determined. A laboratory scale trough was used for withering operation. Temperature of blown air was 27Â°C and air flow rate was adjusted in 6.3 m3/min per 1 kg tea green leaf. Withering time was considered with five levels in three replications. Results related to determination of tea water e','Withering, Trough, Tea Processing, Duration, Green leaf, Sensory quality.','According to the results withered leaves in 16 hours had good biochemical properties and high sensory quality score and withering in 8 hours resulted in black tea with poor biochemical and sensory quality. Also impact of withering time on liquor tea brightness when air flow rate was adjusted in 0.63 m^3/min per 1 kg green tea leaves, was none significant. All of the sensory quality attributes play an important role in tea final quality, because all of these attributes had a significant linear correlation with total quality of black tea. \r\nWithering time duration is very crucial for biochemical attributes and controlling and monitoring this stage can help to produce black tea with high quality\r\n','Withering is the first step in black tea manufacturing and is known as a pre-requisite for tea processing (Borah, et. al., 2012). The uniformity of oxidation during fermentationis ensured by this stage (Omiadz, et. al., 2014). During this stage, the moisture content of plucked tea leaves decrease. In addition to physical changes during withering, tea leaves undergo biochemical interactions that play an important role in black tea quality; its aroma in particular (Tomlins and Mashingaidze, 1997, Singh et. al., 2012). Withering tea leaves mostly is done in open type troughs in Iran. Freshly plucked leaves spread out on fine meshed screen and air flow is blown to the leaves. With considering the determinant role of withering on the black tea quality, some researchers investigated this stage in order to improve the quality of black tea. In a research that was organized by Muthumani and Kumar in 2007, withering time duration is shortened by using freeze-withering technique. The quality of w','Farshad Soheili-Fard, Hamid Reza Ghassemzadeh and Seyed Babak Salvatian (2015). Impact of Withering time duration on some Biochemical Properties and Sensory Quality Attributes of Black Tea .Biological Forum â€“ An International Journal 7(1): 1045-1049.'),(4271,'117','The Vibration Effect of Shaker System (Vortex) and Medicinal plants on Escherichia coli and Klebsiella pneumoniae â€Ž Gram-negative Bacteria','Yaghoub Barfar and Seyed Sajjad Khoramrooz','166 YAGHOUB BARFAR.pdf','',1,'The prepared research has been performed to effects of Gundelia tournefortii, ferulago angulata and Rheum ribes as well as the vibration effect on Escherichia coli and Klebsiella pneumoniae gram-negaive bacteria at Yasuj University of Medical Sciences, in 2014. Firstly different concentrations of each bacteria were prepared. Then, they were affected by vibrations, and finally, after finishing every vibration with using Spread Plate method it was prepared culture from resulting suspension. To study antimicrobial effects, it was used Plate method after preparing Gundelia tournefortii, ferulago angulata and Rheum ribes. Our results showed that Gundelia tournefortii, Ferulago angulata and Rheum ribes extracts had not significant effect on the gram-negative E. coli and K. pneumoniae bacteria. Furthermore, the results indicated that vibration is no significant change in the number of grown bacteria on culture plate for none of desired concentrations of bacteria and also increasing the time o','Escherichia coli, ferulago angulate, Gundelia tournefortii, herbal extracts, Klebsiella pneumoniae, Rheum ribes','The results showed Gundelia tournefortii, Ferulago angulata and Rheum ribes extracts did not effect on the gram-negative Escherichia coli and Klebsiella pneumoniae bacteria. With increscent of time vibration and frequency, no significant change is seen in number of colonies as a result of bacteria cell wall strength. \r\nSince the size of Escherichia coli bacteria is larger than Klebsiella pneumoniae, they had more claches compared to Klebsiella. Consequently, their cell wall is weaker than gram-positive bacteria like Staphylococcus Aureus because of low layer of peptidoglycans. Thus, concentration shows the most impact on the mentioned bacteria as a result of Escherichia coli bacteria clashes to each other as well as the destruction of their cell wall.\r\nE. coli and Klebsiella pneumoniae bacteria both are belonged to the family of intestinal gram-negative bacteria and also they are similar to each other in terms of structural features (except in cases where the Klebsiella is like a capsu','Bacteria are the most important and diverse microorganism on earth. In general, lack of their activities disturbs the life on earth. Only a few bacteria like Chlamydia and Rickettsia are necessarily intracellular parasites. Bacteria are different from Eukaryotes in some aspects. Bacteria consist of S80 Ribosomes, pelliculate organelles such as the nucleus, mitochondria and circular chromosomes without cover. Bacteria (other than Mycoplasmas) have cell walls. Vibration is applicable in electrical circuit and dental drill in medical field. Vibration Operating Systems are classified to different categories. This categorization has been done based on the impact and outcome of education or treatment (Marien, 2010). Due to the increasing resistance of bacteria to anti biogenic, the prepared study considers the effects of medical plants extracts and vibrations on Staphylococcus aureus gram-positive bacteria.\r\nIt is certain that Eukaryotic organisms have come from living organisms like bacteri','Yaghoub Barfar and Seyed Sajjad Khoramrooz (2015). The Vibration Effect of Shaker System (Vortex) and Medicinal plants on Escherichia coli and Klebsiella pneumoniae â€Ž Gram-negative Bacteria . Biological Forum â€“ An International Journal 7(1): 1050-1054'),(4272,'117','Relationship between Bean Crop Productivity and Weed Appearance','Bahram Mirshekari and Reza Siyami','167 BAHRAM MIRSHEKARI.pdf','',1,'Green bean is an important pulse crop in this province and often grown in rotation with cereals. Field experiments were conducted at the Agricultural Research Station of Islamic Azad University of Tabriz, Iran. The treatments were weed-infested and weed-free in same periods. For weed-infested plots, redroot pigweeds were hand removed after 2, 4, 6, 8, 10 and 14 weeks after bean emergence (WABE) and were kept weed free thereafter. For weed-free experiment, redroot pigweeds that were provided from transplanted seedlings in green bean rows were allowed to compete with green bean plants from 2, 4, 6, 8, 10 and 14 WABE thereafter. A sigmoid model provided the best fit for the maximum weed-infested experiment. The relationship of green bean yield with weed-free period was best described by a polynomial equation. Green bean biomass was not affected by redroot pigweed after the first four weeks of interference; however a significant loss in crop biomass occurred thereafter in comparison with ','Crop biomass, Polynomial equation, Weed removal. ','Green bean is an important pulse crop in this province and often grown in rotation with cereals. Field experiments were conducted at the Agricultural Research Station of Islamic Azad University of Tabriz, Iran. The treatments were weed-infested and weed-free in same periods. For weed-infested plots, redroot pigweeds were hand removed after 2, 4, 6, 8, 10 and 14 weeks after bean emergence (WABE) and were kept weed free thereafter. For weed-free experiment, redroot pigweeds that were provided from transplanted seedlings in green bean rows were allowed to compete with green bean plants from 2, 4, 6, 8, 10 and 14 WABE thereafter. A sigmoid model provided the best fit for the maximum weed-infested experiment. The relationship of green bean yield with weed-free period was best described by a polynomial equation. Green bean biomass was not affected by redroot pigweed after the first four weeks of interference; however a significant loss in crop biomass occurred thereafter in comparison with ','Green bean is an important pulse crop in this province and often grown in rotation with cereals. Critical period of weed control (CPWC) program depends on many factors such as cultivar (Seem et al., 2003), climate, weed population density and dominant weeds (Seem et al. 2003) and weed interference duration (Massinga et al., 2001). When only two redroot pigweeds per meter row emerged with soybean [Glycine max (L.) Merr.], crop yield reduced by 12.3%, but weeds emergence at the second nodal stage of soybean did not cause significant effect on its yield (Dielman et al., 1995). Redroot pigweed that emerges in June grew faster by 0.03 cm for each growing degree day than the plants emerged one month later (Horak and Loughin, 2000). Limited use of herbicides, due to their adverse effects on sustainability of agricultural ecosystems in recent decades has been advocated (Burnside et al. 1998). Late-emerging weeds may not reduce crop yields. The time interval between early and late emergence is ','Bahram Mirshekari and Reza Siyami (2015). Relationship between Bean Crop Productivity and Weed Appearance .Biological Forum â€“ An International Journal 7(1): 1055-1058 .'),(4273,'117','The Vibration effect of Shaker System (Vortex) and Medicinal plants on Staphylococcus aureus gram-positive Bacteria','Yaghoub Barfar and Seyed Sajjad Khoramrooz','168 YAGHOUB BARFAR.pdf','',1,'The prepared research has been performed to effects of Gundelia tournefortii, ferulago angulata and Rheum ribes as well as the vibration effect on Staphylococcus aureus gram-positive bacteria at Yasuj University of Medical Sciences, in 2014. Firstly different concentrations of each bacteria were prepared. Then, they were affected by vibrations, and finally, after finishing every vibration with using Spread Plate method it was prepared culture from resulting suspension. To study antimicrobial effects, it was used Plate method after preparing Gundelia tournefortii, ferulago angulata and Rheum ribes. The results showed that vibration is no significant change in the number of grown bacteria on culture plate for none of desired concentrations of bacteria and also increasing the time of â€Žvibration and frequency.â€Ž The results of extracts indicated that Rheum ribes and Ferulago angulata had antimicrobial effects on staphylococcus aureus.','Staphylococcus aureus, herbal extracts, vibration, Rheum ribes, Gundelia tournefortii, ferulago angulata','The results obtained from the antimicrobial effects of Gundelia tournefortii, ferulago angulata and Rheum ribes show that the ferulago angulata and Rheum ribes affect the Staphylococcus aureus gram-positive bacteria with a typical rigid cell wall. Due to the important role of Peptidoglycan in the survival of gram-positive bacteria especially Staphylococcus aureus bacteria in comparison with the low importance of the gram-negative structures, we can probably assume that the extracts are effective on bacterial cell wall. For this reason, Staphylococcus aureus bacteria is sensitive to these compounds and it is not developed in medium plate.\r\nBy considering the antibacterial effects of Rheum ribes against Staphylococcus aureus bacteria in various concentrations, we can perform more complete researches in relation to the mechanism of plants against bacterial structures and more extensive studies can be done in this ground. In relation to ferulago angulata plant, the extract influenced the b','Bacteria are the most important and diverse microorganism on earth. In general, lack of their activities disturbs the life on earth. Only a few bacteria like Chlamydia and Rickettsia are necessarily intracellular parasites. Bacteria are different from Eukaryotes in some aspects. Bacteria consist of S80 Ribosome\'s, pelliculate organelles such as the nucleus, mitochondria and circular chromosomes without cover. Bacteria (other than Mycoplasmas) have cell walls. Vibration is applicable in electrical circuit and dental drill in medical field. Vibration Operating Systems are classified to different categories. This categorization has been done based on the impact and outcome of education or treatment (Marien, 2010). Due to the increasing resistance of bacteria to anti biogenic, the prepared study considers the effects of medical plants extracts and vibrations on Staphylococcus aureus gram-positive bacteria.\r\nIt is certain that Eukaryotic organisms have come from living organisms like bacter','Yaghoub Barfar and Seyed Sajjad Khoramrooz (2015). The Vibration effect of Shaker System (Vortex) and Medicinal plants on Staphylococcus aureus gram-positive Bacteria .Biological Forum â€“ An International Journal 7(1): 1059-1063 .'),(4274,'117','Ameliorating Effect of Ginger on Plasma Gonadotropin Hormones and Testosterone Hormones of Male Rats Exposed to Cadmium Toxicity','Asal Younessi and Ali Asghar Sadeghi','169 A.A. SADEGHI.pdf','',1,'This study was conducted to evaluate the effect of ginger supplementation on plasma gonadotropin and steroid hormones of rats exposed to oxidative stress. In a completely randomized design, 16 newly weaned rats were randomly allocated to four treatments. Treatments were as: control, ginger (500 mg/kg body weight), Cadmium at 2 mg/kg body weight and combination of Cadmium and ginger gavaged for 30-day trial period. Rats were anesthetized with diethyl ether and the blood was collected from heart by heparinized tubes. Administration of Cadmium increased significantly malondialdehyde concentration. Ginger supplementation could not decrease malondialdehyde significantly, but its level was numerically lower than those received Cadmium. Rats received control or ginger alone had lower plasma malondialdehyde concentration compared to those received Cadmium and there was no difference between them for malondialdehyde concentration. The lowest concentration was for those exposed to Cadmium toxici','Cadmium, Ginger, Gonadotrophin, Rat, Testosterone','This study was conducted to evaluate the effect of ginger supplementation on plasma gonadotropin and steroid hormones of rats exposed to oxidative stress. In a completely randomized design, 16 newly weaned rats were randomly allocated to four treatments. Treatments were as: control, ginger (500 mg/kg body weight), Cadmium at 2 mg/kg body weight and combination of Cadmium and ginger gavaged for 30-day trial period. Rats were anesthetized with diethyl ether and the blood was collected from heart by heparinized tubes. Administration of Cadmium increased significantly malondialdehyde concentration. Ginger supplementation could not decrease malondialdehyde significantly, but its level was numerically lower than those received Cadmium. Rats received control or ginger alone had lower plasma malondialdehyde concentration compared to those received Cadmium and there was no difference between them for malondialdehyde concentration. The lowest concentration was for those exposed to Cadmium toxici','Cadmium accumulation within various tissues of the human and animals has been demonstrated in previous studies (Thompson and Bannigan, 2008; Liu et al., 2010). The important target organs for this heavy metal are the hypothalamus (Lafuente et al., 2001, Wang et al., 2012) and testis (Siu et al., 2009) and changes in neuroendocrine activity and sexual hormones production have been reported (Lafuente et al., 1999). Acute Cadmium administration in male rats also results in severe impairment of testicular functions including germ cell death and inhibition of testicular steroidogenesis (Hew et al., 1993; Yang et al., 2003). Cadmium is known to deplete glutathione and protein-bound sulfhydryl groups, which results in enhanced production of reactive oxygen species (ROS) such as superoxide ion, hydroxyl radicals and hydrogen peroxide (Liu et al., 2001). \r\nWhen amount of free radicals reach more than antioxidant capacity (enzymatic and non-enzymatic), oxidative stress can be occurred and malond','Asal Younessi and Ali Asghar Sadeghi (2015). Ameliorating Effect of Ginger on Plasma Gonadotropin Hormones and Testosterone Hormones of Male Rats Exposed to Cadmium Toxicity .Biological Forum â€“ An International Journal 7(1): 1064-1069.'),(4275,'117','Magnetic field Induction Stimulates Marigold Growth Characteristics Responsible for its Productivity under Greenhouse induction','Bahram Mirshekari, Mohammad Reza Ghorbanian Tabrizi and Sahar Baser Kouchebagh','170 BAHRAM MIRSHEKARI.pdf','',1,'Physical treatment methods may be used as bio-stimulators in agricultural medicinal plants production such as marigold. The experiment was laid out in a completely randomized design in greenhouse with three replicates. Marigold seeds were differently treated by ultra-sonication, gamma irradiation and beta irradiation for exposure time of 10 min., laser irradiation and magnetic field for exposure times of 5, 10 and 15 min. Seeds without any irradiation served as control. Treating seeds with magnetic field for exposure time of 5 min. increased marigold leaf area. Seed priming materials affected plant length of marigold. Highest number of leaves per plant was developed due to seed treatment by laser irradiation for exposure time of 10 min. Based on the results obtained from this study it can be concluded that treating marigold seeds by magnetic field may increases its primary growth more than other irradiation agents used.','Bio-stimulators, Crop production, Greenhouse, Seed priming materials','Based on the results obtained from this study it can be concluded that treating marigold seeds by magnetic field may increases its primary growth more than other irradiation agents used. Additional investigations are needed to warrant the preferability of magnetic field priming of marigold seeds over other seed priming agents.','Marigolds (Calendula officinalis L.) are very important medicinal plants cultivated outdoors as winter annual plants. It belongs to Asteraceae family and is used for landscaping, as a source of color in the gardens and as cut flowers. It is considered to be one of the valuable medicinal plants which contains oleanolic acid and other compounds, which have considerable interest for potential health benefits, including protective effects against development of cancer, inhibition of existing tumor cells, protection against chemotherapy and radiation therapy adverse effects, anti-inflammatory activity, antioxidant activity, cardiovascular protective effects and antiviral effects (Dharmananda 2009). \r\nGermination and seedling establishment are critical stages in the plant life cycle (Ganji Arjenaki et al. 2011). There are several indications that many physiological mechanisms are involved in seed priming such as the repair of the age related cellular and subcellular damage that can accumulat','Bahram Mirshekari, Mohammad Reza Ghorbanian Tabrizi and Sahar Baser Kouchebagh (2015). Magnetic field Induction Stimulates Marigold Growth Characteristics Responsible for its Productivity under Greenhouse induction .Biological Forum â€“ An International J'),(4276,'117','Resistance Level of Introduced Germplasm of Wheat to Stem Rust in Georgia','Z.V. Sikharulidze, R.Z. Dumbadze and K.D. Sikharulidze','171 Z.V. SIKHARULIDZE.pdf','',1,'Stem rust (Puccinia graminis f. sp. tritici) is devastating wheat disease, causing significant yield losses in many regions of the world. The use of resistant varieties is the most efficient way to protect wheat crops from stem rust. In the present study, the levels of resistance to stem rust in entries of 4 nd IWWSRRN was determined. Resistance reaction was found in fifteen entries. Thirty nine entries showed moderate resistance. Based on the coefficient of infection and rAUDPC values more resistance against stem rust was determined and most of the lines had a great potential to be used as a source of resistance against stem rust.','wheat, stem rust, diseases severity, coefficient of infection, slow rusting','Stem rust (Puccinia graminis f. sp. tritici) is devastating wheat disease, causing significant yield losses in many regions of the world. The use of resistant varieties is the most efficient way to protect wheat crops from stem rust. In the present study, the levels of resistance to stem rust in entries of 4 nd IWWSRRN was determined. Resistance reaction was found in fifteen entries. Thirty nine entries showed moderate resistance. Based on the coefficient of infection and rAUDPC values more resistance against stem rust was determined and most of the lines had a great potential to be used as a source of resistance against stem rust.','The major airborne cereal diseases in most of the world cereal growing areas are rusts. Outbreaks of wheat rusts pose a threat to global food security. Aggressive new strains of wheat stem and stripe rusts have decimated up to 40% of farmers\' wheat fields in recent harvests in North Africa, the Middle East, Central Asia and the Caucuses (Chen, 2002; Milus, 2009; Roelfs, 1986). Stem rust (Puccinia graminis f. sp. tritici) is one the most devastating diseases of wheat in many regions of the world (Wanuera, 2008). The emergence of a new stem rust strain Ug99 in Uganda in 1999 (Pretorius et al., 2000) devastated crops and has spread to Kenya, Ethiopia, Sudan and Yemen, though has to reach the Iran. Georgia is under high risk of spread this race.\r\nConsidering the diverse ecology and type of wheats grown in the principal risk areas along the migration path of Ug99 and secondary risk areas of developing countries, the Wheat Rust Disease Global Program was created to manage the Ug99 epidemic a','Z.V. Sikharulidze, R.Z. Dumbadze and K.D. Sikharulidze (2015). Resistance Level of Introduced Germplasm of Wheat to Stem Rust in Georgia .Biological Forum â€“ An International Journal 7(1): 1075-1079 .'),(4277,'117','Effect of Sodium Silicate on the Yield and Yield Components of Pea under Salinity Stress','Hamid Khoshkhabar, Mohammad Jafari, Alireza Feilinezhad and Sadegh Bahamin','172 SADEGH BAHAMIN.pdf','',1,'The reduction comes into operation. In this regard, one of the elements that can improve plant water status, salinity effects amend the silicon. To this end, the experiment was conducted in a completely randomized design with three replications Elam. Treatments include soil salinity levels 2, 4 and 6 dS/m sodium silicate with three levels, 1 and 2 mM, respectively. Results showed a significant effect of salinity on the number of pods per square meter, number of seeds per square meter, seed weight, seed yield and dry matter, so increasing salinity levels lead to a decrease in the value of this attribute. The lowest seed yield in salinity 6 dS/m amounts to 41.4 gram per square meter respectively. Silicon is also a significant effect on the number of pods per square meter, seed weight and grain yield. With consumption of 2 mM sodium silicate, yield to 99.7 grams per square meter. Based on the results of the silicon can be used to improve the yield and yield components of pea under salin','Peas, salt, sodium silicate, seed weight, dry weight ','The reduction comes into operation. In this regard, one of the elements that can improve plant water status, salinity effects amend the silicon. To this end, the experiment was conducted in a completely randomized design with three replications Elam. Treatments include soil salinity levels 2, 4 and 6 dS/m sodium silicate with three levels, 1 and 2 mM, respectively. Results showed a significant effect of salinity on the number of pods per square meter, number of seeds per square meter, seed weight, seed yield and dry matter, so increasing salinity levels lead to a decrease in the value of this attribute. The lowest seed yield in salinity 6 dS/m amounts to 41.4 gram per square meter respectively. Silicon is also a significant effect on the number of pods per square meter, seed weight and grain yield. With consumption of 2 mM sodium silicate, yield to 99.7 grams per square meter. Based on the results of the silicon can be used to improve the yield and yield components of pea under salin','Beans, meat, poor people, the second largest source of human food and cereals are the major source of vegetable protein. They are about 2 to 4 times the amount of protein in cereals and tuber plants is 10 to 20 times. Forage crops due to 8 to 14 percent protein, have more energy than is corn (Majnoon-Hosseini, 1993). Pea (Cicer arietinum L.) second most important crop of the most important cereal crops in the Middle East and Iran (Jamshidi et al, 2007). With high quality protein and a major role in increasing soil nitrogen. In most areas of the plant traditionally grown in rotation with cereals (Dashti et al, 2005). Compared to other crops from cultivation, production is more important; however, its sensitivity to salt it has a negative impact on growth and performance (Dashti et al, 2005; and Datta and Dayal, 1991).\r\nSalinity, a major environmental stress and a barrier to production is desirable. Salinity characteristics - the physiology, morphology, anatomy, chemical composition and ','Hamid Khoshkhabar, Mohammad Jafari, Alireza Feilinezhad and Sadegh Bahamin (2015). Effect of Sodium Silicate on the Yield and Yield Components of Pea under Salinity Stress .Biological Forum â€“ An International Journal 7(1): 1080-1084.'),(4278,'117','Survey of effects of PGPR and salinity on the characteristics of Nigella leaves','Arash Rezaei, Babak Lotfi, Mohammad Jafari and Sadegh Bahamin','173 SADEGH BAHAMIN.pdf','',1,'Nowadays, medicinal herbs have high economic importance, and considering the development of saline lands in the world, using corrective procedures towards less effects of salinity is necessary. Using growth stimulating bacteria is one of the most important methods in this regard. To that aim, a research in the form of a completely randomized design with 3 duplications and 8 treatments was done on Nigella in Ilam in 2012. The treatments included 0 millimolar (mm) Salinity, 100 mm Salinity, Azetobacter, Pseudomonas, 100 mm Salinity + Azetobacter + Pseudomonas and Azetobacter + Pseudomonas. The results showed that the research treatments had statistically significant effects on leaf area, leaf protein percentage, and chlorophyll index in 1% level, and on leaf dry weight in 5% level. In the 100 mm salinity treatment + Azetobacter + Pseudomonas, the leaf protein got 12.33%, 36% more than the 100 mm salinity treatment showing a statistically significant difference. Generally speaking, the re','Nigella, Protein, Pseudomonas, Azetobacter','Nowadays, medicinal herbs have high economic importance, and considering the development of saline lands in the world, using corrective procedures towards less effects of salinity is necessary. Using growth stimulating bacteria is one of the most important methods in this regard. To that aim, a research in the form of a completely randomized design with 3 duplications and 8 treatments was done on Nigella in Ilam in 2012. The treatments included 0 millimolar (mm) Salinity, 100 mm Salinity, Azetobacter, Pseudomonas, 100 mm Salinity + Azetobacter + Pseudomonas and Azetobacter + Pseudomonas. The results showed that the research treatments had statistically significant effects on leaf area, leaf protein percentage, and chlorophyll index in 1% level, and on leaf dry weight in 5% level. In the 100 mm salinity treatment + Azetobacter + Pseudomonas, the leaf protein got 12.33%, 36% more than the 100 mm salinity treatment showing a statistically significant difference. Generally speaking, the re','Scientific name of Nigella is Nigella sativa L. it is dicotyledonous, herbaceous and perennial belonging to the family Ranunculaceae (Bassim, 2003), which grows in West Asia and the Mediterranean regions. Seeds of this plant contain 20-27% protein, 7.3-4.9 % ash, 4.33% carbohydrate and 34.5-38.7% extracted fat (Cheik-Roubou et al, 2007). It is more than two thousand years that Nigella has been used as a medicinal plant (Toncer & Kizil, 2004). Drought stress is one of the most important stresses in many parts of the world, and especially in dry climates that limited the crop yield (Porudad & Beg, 2003). Water stress is the most common type of stress on the plant and often is associated with long-term shortage of moisture or temporary drought on hot days with high radiation or both (McKersie & leshem, 1994) Many reports has been stated that show lack of water from some turn to intensive stress about disturbance of plants physiological processes change in carbohydrates and nitrogen metabo','Arash Rezaei, Babak Lotfi, Mohammad Jafari and Sadegh Bahamin (2015).Survey of effects of PGPR and salinity on the characteristics of Nigella leaves. Biological Forum â€“ An International Journal 7(1): 1085-1092'),(4279,'117','Evaluation of Peroxidase and Catalase Correlations with Physiological Traits in Water deficit Irrigated common Beans','Parvaneh Eslami, Mostafa Valizadeh, Ebrahim Dorani and Mozhgan Shakouri','174 PARVANEH ESLAMI.pdf','',1,'To evaluate effects of water deficit on antioxidant enzyme activities and some physiological traits, two experiments based on completely randomized design were carried out under field conditions. In experiment 1, plants irrigation cycle was each 5 days (normal condition) whereas in experiment two, once per 10 days. In both experiments, 11 genotypes of common beans: white, red, pinto as well as three improved varieties Akhtar, Dehghan and D81083 were studied. Relative water content (RWC) and stomatal resistance were studied in all experimental plots. Catalase (CAT) and peroxidase (POX) activity were determined using three plants via electrophoresis in polyacrylamide gels (8%). According to data, three isozymes were detected for POX and one monomorphic band for CAT. There was significant difference for RWC and stomatal resistance between all genotypes of bean in both irrigation conditions which is an indicator for high level of genetic variation in bean. Pinto and white beans had better ','Water deficit, Peroxidase, Catalase, Electrophoresis, Common bean','To evaluate effects of water deficit on antioxidant enzyme activities and some physiological traits, two experiments based on completely randomized design were carried out under field conditions. In experiment 1, plants irrigation cycle was each 5 days (normal condition) whereas in experiment two, once per 10 days. In both experiments, 11 genotypes of common beans: white, red, pinto as well as three improved varieties Akhtar, Dehghan and D81083 were studied. Relative water content (RWC) and stomatal resistance were studied in all experimental plots. Catalase (CAT) and peroxidase (POX) activity were determined using three plants via electrophoresis in polyacrylamide gels (8%). According to data, three isozymes were detected for POX and one monomorphic band for CAT. There was significant difference for RWC and stomatal resistance between all genotypes of bean in both irrigation conditions which is an indicator for high level of genetic variation in bean. Pinto and white beans had better ','Common bean belongs to leguminous family and contain high level of protein which is preferred and consumed worldwide. Annual production of this crop is approximately 230 million tons. It is one of the best crop products and allocated 1st place to itself among the legumes (Emeterio Payro et al., 2004). Up to 60 percent of it is produced in developing countries under water deficit condition (Costa Franca et al. 2000; Turkan et al., 2005). Beans are consumed in different forms like dried, pods and immature. It contains 18-22 percent protein, 55-60 percent carbohydrates and polyphenolic compounds and anthocianins which made it prominent food stuff and medicine (Beninger and Hosfield, 2003; Aparicio-Fernandez et al., 2005). Plant\'s life depends on its stomatal activities (Kudoyarova et al., 2007). Photosynthesis and transpiration are dependent to stomata. It is reported that high performance beans has much more stomata on their leaves (Yusufzai et al., 2009). It is demonstrated that thick ','Parvaneh Eslami, Mostafa Valizadeh, Ebrahim Dorani and Mozhgan Shakouri (2015). Evaluation of Peroxidase and Catalase Correlations with Physiological Traits in Water deficit Irrigated common Beans . Biological Forum â€“ An International Journal 7(1): 10'),(4280,'117','Determination of Chemical Composition and Physical Feed Quality with Different Processing Parameters in Broiler Feed Mill Factories','Reza Vakili, Mahdi Elahi Torshizi, Mohammad Mahdi Yaghobzadeh and Hamidreza Khadivi','175 REZA VAKILI.pdf','',1,'The aim of this experiment was to evaluate the effect of moisture, the production rate, grain particle size and steam conditioning temperature on composition and physical feed quality of pellet in broiler feed. A 43 fractional factorial arrangement was conducted in starter, grower and finisher feeds with three production rate, three steam conditioning temperatures, three Particle sizes were achieved by grinding the whole grains in the hammer mill to pass through 6, 6.5 and 7.0 mm sieves respectively and three moisture content were added to broiler feed production. There was significant difference observed in T-test treatments with regards to the nutrients concentration (except fiber in starter, crude protein and ash in grower and ca in finisher). Also Processing Parameters has significant difference on feed physical quality in Chi-Square tests. Results of this experiment showed a significant effect of Processing Parameters on the feed composition and feed physical quality.','Processing Parameters, feed composition, feed physical quality, broiler, Pellet.','The aim of this experiment was to evaluate the effect of moisture, the production rate, grain particle size and steam conditioning temperature on composition and physical feed quality of pellet in broiler feed. A 43 fractional factorial arrangement was conducted in starter, grower and finisher feeds with three production rate, three steam conditioning temperatures, three Particle sizes were achieved by grinding the whole grains in the hammer mill to pass through 6, 6.5 and 7.0 mm sieves respectively and three moisture content were added to broiler feed production. There was significant difference observed in T-test treatments with regards to the nutrients concentration (except fiber in starter, crude protein and ash in grower and ca in finisher). Also Processing Parameters has significant difference on feed physical quality in Chi-Square tests. Results of this experiment showed a significant effect of Processing Parameters on the feed composition and feed physical quality.','Broiler growth is the result of dietary nutrient content and feed intake. Feed intake is affected by feed form. The best feed intake occurs on good quality crumble, mini-pellets or pellets (Ross broiler management handbook, 2014). The pelleting process has been defined as â€œthe agglomeration of small particles into larger particles by means of a mechanical process in combination with moisture, heat, and pressureâ€ (Falk, 1985). This combination results in thermo mechanical changes in feed constituents and an improvement in feed form. The benefits associated with pelleting include improved animal performance and feed handling and decreased ingredient segregation and feed spillage (Behnke, 1994).In addition to diet formulation; pellet quality is affected by manufacturing technique. Currently, there are no industry standards for manufacturing pellets. Each mill may operate using different diet formulations, ingredient particle sizes, steam pressures, conditioning temperatures, and produ','Reza Vakili, Mahdi Elahi Torshizi, Mohammad Mahdi Yaghobzadeh and Hamidreza Khadivi (2015). Determination of Chemical Composition and Physical Feed Quality with Different Processing Parameters in Broiler Feed Mill Factories .Biological Forum â€“ An Int'),(4281,'117','Correlations of Superoxide Dismutase and Catalase activities with Quantitative Traits in common Bean under Water Deficit Stress','Mozhgan Shakouri, Mostafa Valizadeh, Majid Noroozi and Parvaneh Eslami','176 MOZHGAN SHAKOURI.pdf','',1,'Two experiments based on randomized complete block design were carried out under field condition. In first experiment, plants irrigation cycle was each five days (normal condition) whereas in second experiment, once per 10 days. In both experiments, 36 genotypes of common beans: white, red, pinto as well as Akhtar, Dehghan and D81083 as improved cultivars were studied. Days to flowering and about 15 other quantitative traits were measured. Superoxide dismutase (SOD) and catalase (CAT) activities were studied via polyacrylamide gel (8%) electrophoresis. Three and one isozymes were observed for SOD and CAT, respectively. There was significant difference for quantitative traits and isozyme activities in both normal irrigation and water deficit conditions, indicating high genetic variations in common beans. According to the results, SOD and CAT activity levels were significantly increased in all genotypes in water deficit condition compared to normal irrigation. A negative correlation was ','Water deficit, Superoxide dismutase, Catalase, Electrophoresis, Common bean','Two experiments based on randomized complete block design were carried out under field condition. In first experiment, plants irrigation cycle was each five days (normal condition) whereas in second experiment, once per 10 days. In both experiments, 36 genotypes of common beans: white, red, pinto as well as Akhtar, Dehghan and D81083 as improved cultivars were studied. Days to flowering and about 15 other quantitative traits were measured. Superoxide dismutase (SOD) and catalase (CAT) activities were studied via polyacrylamide gel (8%) electrophoresis. Three and one isozymes were observed for SOD and CAT, respectively. There was significant difference for quantitative traits and isozyme activities in both normal irrigation and water deficit conditions, indicating high genetic variations in common beans. According to the results, SOD and CAT activity levels were significantly increased in all genotypes in water deficit condition compared to normal irrigation. A negative correlation was ','Annual production of common bean is approximately 230 million tons. It is one of the best crop product and allocated 1st place among the legumes (Emeterio Payro et al., 2004). One of the greatest challenges of 21 century is to use lesser water for crop products (Bastiiaanssen and Makin, 2003). In the arid and semi-arid regions of the world water crisis is serious (FAO, 2000). Water deficiency leads to decrease plant yield via biomass and/or distribution of dry matter in different parts of plant. This phenomenon depends on duration and tension of drought stress especially in last stages of growth (Winkel et al., 1997). During the growth, plants face different kind of biotic and a-biotic stress. Among them, drought is much more harmful than other environmental stress, (Hasegawa et al., 2000; Yamaguchi-Shinozaki et al., 2002). Beans are sensitive to drought stress in farm, where in hot conditions high levels of water evaporation leads to closure of leaf stomata and minimize the performanc','Mozhgan Shakouri, Mostafa Valizadeh, Majid Noroozi and Parvaneh Eslami (2015). Correlations of Superoxide Dismutase and Catalase activities with Quantitative Traits in common Bean under Water Deficit Stress . Biological Forum â€“ An International Journal '),(4282,'117','New Detecting of Effect of Magnetic field on Germination, Shoot Growth and Activity of Peroxidase Enzymes Alder in Alder Tree','Hamed Nahvi and Seyed Uosef Torabian','177 HAMED NAHVI @ HASHEMI.pdf','',1,'The effect of changes in Tesla magnetic field of 4 and 8 peroxidase activity, the alder seed germination and growth of root and shoot length were examined. A method that leaves the filter paper for 5 treatments with 4 replicates were a total of 20 container, After 20 days of culture dishes at 10-minute intervals 5 and placed inside a magnetic field given. Counted the number of buds and root and shoot growth rate was measured by a ruler. By extraction of the enzyme extracted using a UV spectrophotometer at 420 nm was performed quantitative studies. Peroxidase activity was measured in units of time Then all data that are the root and stem length in centimeters The number of buds per container and the average number of peroxidase enzyme activity of each sample was recorded in software excel. As a result, all parameters except alder seed germination percentage at 0.05% was significant difference between the treatments.','Peroxidase activity, Tesla magnetic, spectrophotometer','The effect of changes in Tesla magnetic field of 4 and 8 peroxidase activity, the alder seed germination and growth of root and shoot length were examined. A method that leaves the filter paper for 5 treatments with 4 replicates were a total of 20 container, After 20 days of culture dishes at 10-minute intervals 5 and placed inside a magnetic field given. Counted the number of buds and root and shoot growth rate was measured by a ruler. By extraction of the enzyme extracted using a UV spectrophotometer at 420 nm was performed quantitative studies. Peroxidase activity was measured in units of time Then all data that are the root and stem length in centimeters The number of buds per container and the average number of peroxidase enzyme activity of each sample was recorded in software excel. As a result, all parameters except alder seed germination percentage at 0.05% was significant difference between the treatments.','Electricity, magnetism, light and monochromatic noise can affect the growth of plants. This technology called electronic media and can increase the growth rate, yield and its quality. DC and AC, magnetic, radio frequency, and the sound is monochromatic light. The energy from these seeds, plants, soil, water and nutrient transfer (Nelson, RA 1999). However, artificial magnetic fields that human industrial development, the use of advanced materials and new energy sources, such as proliferation and spread they are, the more problems there. Evaluate the effects of electromagnetic fields 15 and 23 mT, 50 Hz for 5 hours on two lichen species were studied during 3 consecutive days. Some physiological and biochemical changes in the activity of this strain were examined and compared to the control .The different periods of 50 Hz resulted in significant differences in the composition of soluble sugars, protein and proline are lichens. (Ghorbanli, 1392).On the other hand, is a secondary consequen','Hamed Nahvi and Seyed Uosef Torabian (2015). New Detecting of Effect of Magnetic field on Germination, Shoot Growth and Activity of Peroxidase Enzymes Alder in Alder Tree. Biological Forum â€“ An International Journal 7(1): 1110-1114 .'),(4283,'117','Effect of Mycorrhiza and Phosphorus Fertilizer on some Characteristics of Black Cumin','Bahare Hedayati Mahdi Abadi, Hamid Reza Ganjali and Hamid Reza Mobasser','178 HAMID REZA GANJALI.pdf','',1,'Approximately 80% of the world population depends on medicinal plants for their health and healing. Nigella sativa is an annual flowering plant, native to southwest Asia. It grows to 20 to 30 cm (7.9 to 12 inch) tall, with finely divided, linear (but not thread-like) leaves. Phosphorus is essential for the general health and vigorous all in plant some specific factor that have been associated to phosphorus are root development increasing stack and more stem strength ,improve flower formation and seed production more uniform and earlier crop maturity increase nitrogen fixing capacity of legumes ,improve in crop quality and resistant to plant disease. The field experiment was laid out in randomized complete block design with factorial design with three replications. Treatments included phosphorus fertilizer (0, 30, 60 and 90kg) and mycorrhiza (No mycorrhiza, Glomus intraradices and Glomus mosseae). Analysis of variance showed that the effect of mycorrhiza and phosphorus on all characteri','Nigella sativa, Plant height, Seed yield, Biological yield, Oil percent','Approximately 80% of the world population depends on medicinal plants for their health and healing. Nigella sativa is an annual flowering plant, native to southwest Asia. It grows to 20 to 30 cm (7.9 to 12 inch) tall, with finely divided, linear (but not thread-like) leaves. Phosphorus is essential for the general health and vigorous all in plant some specific factor that have been associated to phosphorus are root development increasing stack and more stem strength ,improve flower formation and seed production more uniform and earlier crop maturity increase nitrogen fixing capacity of legumes ,improve in crop quality and resistant to plant disease. The field experiment was laid out in randomized complete block design with factorial design with three replications. Treatments included phosphorus fertilizer (0, 30, 60 and 90kg) and mycorrhiza (No mycorrhiza, Glomus intraradices and Glomus mosseae). Analysis of variance showed that the effect of mycorrhiza and phosphorus on all characteri','Medicinal plants are used to cure many ailments that are either non-curable or seldomly cured through modern systems of medicine. Approximately 80% of the world population depends on medicinal plants for their health and healing (Aliyu, 2003). Societal motivations to use herbs are increasing due to concern about the side effects of synthetic drugs. Many botanicals and some dietary supplements are good sources of antioxidants and anti-inflammatory compounds (Balasubramanian and Palaniappan, 2001). Quality in medicinal plants is more important than other plant products. Environmental factors have an important role on plant growth. Some of these factors such as irrigation and manure can be controlled by human. Both of them are essential to increase yield and quality of plants (Singh and Goswami, 2000). Because the need of increasing the medicinal plant production all over the world, its production became an ultimate goal to meet the great increase of population to avoid chemical therapy s','Bahare Hedayati Mahdi Abadi, Hamid Reza Ganjali and Hamid Reza Mobasser (2015). Effect of Mycorrhiza and Phosphorus Fertilizer on some Characteristics of Black Cumin. Biological Forum â€“ An International Journal 7(1): 1115-1120 .'),(4284,'117','The most Appropriate Winter Cultivation in Mazandaran Province of Iran using Analytical Hierarchy Process (AHP)','Mohammad Koohestani, Yousef Niknejad and Hormoz Fallah Amoli','179 MOHAMMAD KOOHESTANI.pdf','',1,'The energy analysis is necessary for stable management of resources to produce agricultural product and also determination of consumed energy in each production step, obtaining a base for resources protection, helping in stable management and presentation of related diplomacy are premium of this process. Prosperous applying of quantitative methods can redound to accurate, reliable and economic solutions with reasonable time. Analytical Hierarchy Process (AHP) method can change a multi-dimension problem to a single-dimension problem. According to importance of above subjects and input value increasing in agricultural system, high tendency of agricultureâ€™s for further production and intensification of difference plantation in Mazandaran province (Amol city) of Iran, investigation of appropriate pattern of winter cultivation (Lettuce, Bersim Clover, Broad bean) can be effective on winter cultivation system stability. The result demonstrated that in criteria priority according to experts','Winter Cultivation, Bersim Clover, Broad Bean, Lettuce, AHP.','The result illustrated that for economic, social and technical stability in winter cultivation system stability in Amol, Lettuce, Bersim Clover and Broad bean are appropriate respectively. For realization of ecological stability, Broad bean, Bersim Clover and Lettuce are appropriate respectively and for accessibility to political stability in winter cultivation system, Broad bean and Bersim Clover are in the first level.','In recent years the trend towards increased energy consumption in the world and also in Iran has caused farmers to use more energy to produce food products. Necessity of study on different planting patterns in the agricultural sector due to limited natural resources and adverse effects resulting from improper use of different sources of energy on the environment and human health is inevitable. The decision to select the best model of cultivation which consists of spatial and temporal conditions of cultivation and ecologic, economic and social excellences require a comprehensive and logical model that is able to be linked to the qualitative and quantitative parameters. Mathematical techniques of decision are appropriate tools for the prioritization of objectives and programs. Analytical Hierarchy Process (AHP) is a response to human need for investigation of quality problems which have not any criteria for measurement. This method solve the complexity of the problem caused by various fa','Mohammad Koohestani, Yousef Niknejad and Hormoz Fallah Amoli (2015). The most Appropriate Winter Cultivation in Mazandaran Province of Iran using Analytical Hierarchy Process (AHP) .Biological Forum â€“ An International Journal 7(1): 1121-1130.'),(4285,'117','Determining Quality of Bread Wheat Cultivars Using Protein Electrophoresis and STS Markers Associated with High Molecular Weight Glutenin Subunits','Mahdiyeh Poudine, Mohammadhadi Pahlevani, Khalil Zeinalinejad and Habib Ullah Soghi','180 MAHDIYEH POUDINE.pdf','',1,'In this study, the efficiency of wheat quality classification was studied with an emphasis on modern methods of specific molecular markers for qualitative assessing and qualitative classification of 13 kinds of bread wheat cultivars. Evaluation parameters of wheat quality such as SDS-PAGE and STS-PCR were also compared using five specific primers. The results for the identification of molecular- weight subunits in SDS-PAGE analysis confirmed the results of the STS-PCR method. This method represented different subunits of the given cultivars, but the STS-PCR method showed the presence or absence of a subunit-specific based on the primers designed for the studied allele; thus, reducing the error while detecting and isolating the subunits. Of all identified subunits, the subunit composition, D1x5 + D1y10, had the largest share in improving bakery quality and the Axnull subunit had the largest share in reducing the quality of bread wheat cultivars. According to the results of both tests, ','Bakery Quality, SDS- PAGET, specific marker, wheat, HMW-G','In this study, the efficiency of wheat quality classification was studied with an emphasis on modern methods of specific molecular markers for qualitative assessing and qualitative classification of 13 kinds of bread wheat cultivars. Evaluation parameters of wheat quality such as SDS-PAGE and STS-PCR were also compared using five specific primers. The results for the identification of molecular- weight subunits in SDS-PAGE analysis confirmed the results of the STS-PCR method. This method represented different subunits of the given cultivars, but the STS-PCR method showed the presence or absence of a subunit-specific based on the primers designed for the studied allele; thus, reducing the error while detecting and isolating the subunits. Of all identified subunits, the subunit composition, D1x5 + D1y10, had the largest share in improving bakery quality and the Axnull subunit had the largest share in reducing the quality of bread wheat cultivars. According to the results of both tests, ','Flour and baking quality in a cultivar is a complex trait influenced by several environmental and genetic factors. In fact, the balance between the different components such as starch, gluten, lipids, and water and their interaction determine the quality of a cultivar (Johansson et al., 1998). Well - known genes whose allelic variation affects the finished wheat product include genes controlling heavy glutenin (Glu-1), light glutenin (Glu-3), (Gli-1,2,3), the quantity of proteins (Pro1, Pro2), grain hardness (Ha, Pina-D1, Pinb-D1), and starch. Starch includes waxy proteins (GBSS-Wx-1) and amylose and amilo pectin content and other biosynthesis starch genes, lipids, and lipo- proteins, pigments and alpha and beta amylase enzymes (Morris, 1998). Among various factors, seed storage proteins are the most important factors in making a difference in the quality of wheat varieties.\r\nOne of the most significant characteristics of grain storage proteins is their role in determining the quality','Mahdiyeh Poudine, Mohammadhadi Pahlevani, Khalil Zeinalinejad and Habib Ullah Soghi (2015). Determining Quality of Bread Wheat Cultivars Using Protein Electrophoresis and STS Markers Associated with High Molecular Weight Glutenin Subunits . Biological Fo'),(4286,'117','Effect of Sewage Irrigation on Yield and Active Ingredients of the Herbal Plant, Psyllium (Plantago ovata L.)','Somayyeh Mirshekari, Seyed Abolfazle Hashemi and Zahra Ghaffari Moghadam','181 SOMAYYEH MIRSHEKARI.pdf','',1,'To evaluate the effect of irrigation with wastewater on the performance and the active ingredient in the herb Psyllium (Plantago ovata), a test was implemented in the agricultural year 2012-2013 in a farm located in the city of Zabol. The experiment was performed in completely randomized block design with three replications. Irrigation treatments were at three levels: 1) irrigation with tap water, 2) irrigation with 50% tap water + 50% urban sewage, 3) full irrigation with wastewater from the city of Zabol. The results showed that the effect of irrigation with wastewater on grain yield and other traits such as plant height, number of grains per spike has been significant.','wastewater, Psyllium, grain yield, mucilage','To evaluate the effect of irrigation with wastewater on the performance and the active ingredient in the herb Psyllium (Plantago ovata), a test was implemented in the agricultural year 2012-2013 in a farm located in the city of Zabol. The experiment was performed in completely randomized block design with three replications. Irrigation treatments were at three levels: 1) irrigation with tap water, 2) irrigation with 50% tap water + 50% urban sewage, 3) full irrigation with wastewater from the city of Zabol. The results showed that the effect of irrigation with wastewater on grain yield and other traits such as plant height, number of grains per spike has been significant.','During the 21st century, numerous studies have been conducted on medicinal plants. In fact, medicines with natural origins have opened new horizons to physicians, pharmacologists, and other researchers. One of the most important issues which has been considered in agriculture, medicine and even the international trade is producing, processing, and using medicinal plants (Pirzad et al., 2006). Nowadays, nearly a third of drugs used by humans are originally extracted from herbal plants and this rate is speeding remarkably (Omidbeigi, 1997). \r\nDue to limitation of drinking water resources in Iran and gradual increase of urban wastes, replacing water required for agriculture with residues of urban wastes can in part solve the problems related to providing tap water and reduce health problems made by improper discharge of these sewages. Moreover, returning water through waste currents to farms has several advantages such as saving expenses of using chemical fertilizers, improving the quali','Somayyeh Mirshekari, Seyed Abolfazle Hashemi and Zahra Ghaffari Moghadam (2015). Effect of Sewage Irrigation on Yield and Active Ingredients of the Herbal Plant, Psyllium (Plantago ovata L.) .Biological Forum â€“ An International Journal 7(1): 1139-1142.'),(4287,'117','Assess the Energy Efficiency of Rapeseed (Brassica napus L.) Production in the Mazandaran province: A case study of Amol city','Reza Jafari, Yousef Niknejad and Hormoz Fallah','182 REZA JAFARI.pdf','',1,'Energy consumption in the world and Iran has increased in recent years. Recently, farmers apply more energy to produce food. To achieve the best performance, review and analyze the energy of food production is very important. On the other hand, the economic analysis for the detection performance of the product is essential. In this study, the energy equivalences of input-output used in the winter oilseed rape (Brassica napus L.) or Canola have been investigated in Mazandaran province of Iran. The required information has been achieved from the questionnaire with the help of 71 farmers from 5 villages in Amol city, Mazandaran province. Energy analysis results showed that total input energy in production was 29332.36 MJ/ha. Of all the inputs, the fertilizer (mostly N fertilizer) has the biggest share in the total energy with a 65.11 % (19101.25.8 MJ/ha) that show, canola production severely dependent on fertilizer. Fertilizer energy is followed by diesel fuel energy which was 30.96 % (90','Canola, Mazandaran, Energy analysis, Direct energy, Renewable energy','In this study, energy analysis of canola production in Amol city of Iran was investigated. Data were collected from 71 farmers which were selected on random sampling method. Total Energy consumption was 29332.36 MJ/ha. From among all inputs, the Nitrogen (N) has the biggest proportion in the total input energy with 60.71% (17808 MJ/ha). Proportion of the fertilizer (consist of P2O5, Nitrogen, pesticide) in the total energy was 65.11% (18809.8 MJ/ha) that show, canola production intensively dependent on fertilizer. After fertilizer energy diesel fuel energy was the highest with 30.96% (9082 MJ/ha). Energy productivity and input-output energy ratio were calculated, 0.0613 kg/MJ and 1.3316, respectively. Direct energy was 31.23% while indirect energy was 68.77% of total input energy. Non-renewable energy was 99.215% total input energy.\r\n This indicates that canola production needs to progress the efficiency of energy consumption in production and to employ renewable energy. \r\n','Agriculture to meet the growing need for food for a growing world population and to provide sufficient food and good quality is extremely dependent to energy consumption. Thus, energy use in agriculture increases by increasing population, limited arable land, and increasing of life quality. On the other hand, due to limited resources and the adverse effects resulting from the proper use of various energy sources on human health and the environment, the need to examine the pattern of energy consumption in agriculture is inevitable (Hatirli, et al., 2005). Considering the energy crisis, increasing fossil fuel consumption and consequently an increase in emissions of various greenhouse gases into the environment, reducing energy consumption as much as possible is necessary. Energy consumption in the world and also in Iran has increased in recent years and recently farmers apply more energy to produce food (Beheshti et al., 2010). \r\nEnergy analysis for sustainable management of resources i','Reza Jafari, Yousef Niknejad and Hormoz Fallah . (2015).Assess the Energy Efficiency of Rapeseed (Brassica napus L.) Production in the Mazandaran province: A case study of Amol city Biological Forum â€“ An International Journal 7(1): 1143-1148.'),(4288,'117','Study of Desertification Status using IMDPA Model with Emphasis on Water, Soil and Vegetation criteria (Case Study: Faryab-Kerman Province)','Ehsan Kamali Maskooni, Mohammad Amin Kamali, Iraj Amiri, Mohammad Zare \r\nand Khosrow Saidi Goraghani\r\n','183 MOHAMMAD AMIN KAMALI.pdf','',1,'Today, desertification regions of world, especially in arid, semi-arid and semi-humid areas are threatening by various causes, including natural and human factors. In these areas desertification not only degradation soils also creates some unstable condition for all of social and economical, especially on cultivation and irrigation. Land degradation can be more objective in soil and water on the leaves due to the importance of this issue; in this study have been studied three criteria: water, soil and vegetation. In order to evaluate desertification in Faryab region (south of Kerman province) were used of IMDPA model. For soil criteria four index: texture, depth, percent of gravel and electrical conductivity, for water criteria three index: electrical conductivity, chloride concentration and SAR, and for vegetation criteria three index: Vegetation condition, exploitation of vegetation and Renewal of vegetation were applied in this model. Results indicated that 14.53% of total study are','Desertification, IMDPA model, Water, soil vegetation and Faryab region','According to discussion on water, soil and vegetation indices, index of vegetation restoration was most the effective factor among vegetation indices (numerical value = 3.82), sodium absorption ratio (SAR) (numerical value = 1.59) was the most effective index among water indices in desertification in the study area. In addition, the effective indices in vegetation were rated as follows: vegetation index (numerical value = 3.11) was the first effective index in desertification in severe class, soil index (numerical value = 1.52) was the second effective index in desertification in medium severity class and water index was the third effective index in desertification in low and negligible severity class (Table 4). These results were inconsistent with those obtained by Dolatshahi (2007).\r\nThe results also showed that vegetation is effective in desertification. It is recommended that a comprehensive research be performed in order to determine the appropriate method to modify and restore ra','Desertification is one of the major crises in the world nowadays. Currently, nearly one thousand and three hundred million people living in more than 110 countries (nearly three fifths of the world) suffer from adverse effects of desertification. Economic, social and political consequences of desertification undoubtedly affect residents of other parts of the world (Diallo, 2001). Desertification has affected nearly 3.100 million acres of pasture, 335 million hectares of irrigated lands, 40 million hectares of cultivated land and 3.475 million hectares or 70% of the total arid areas (Dregne, 1991). In addition, 33% of the earth with a population of 6.2 billion people is affected by desertification and land degradation (Adams and Eswaran, 2000). Desertification is defined as follows: land degradation in arid, semi-arid and sub-humid areas due to climatic factors and human activities (Danfeng et al., 2006).\r\nNowadays, various models, indicators and criteria have been developed to assess t','Ehsan Kamali Maskooni, Mohammad Amin Kamali, Iraj Amiri, Mohammad Zare \r\nand Khosrow Saidi Goraghani (2015). Study of Desertification Status using IMDPA Model with Emphasis on Water, Soil and Vegetation criteria (Case Study: Faryab-Kerman Province) .Biol'),(4289,'117','Fundamental Research in Relation to Minimizing Adverse Effects on Metabolic Disorders','Amir Hossein Asgari Safdar','184 AMIR HOSSEIN ASGARI SAFDAR.pdf','',1,'Subclinical ketosis is a common disease in lactating dairy cows with a lactational incidence rate above 40% in many herds. This condition is associated with increased clinical disease risk, reduced milk production, and impaired reproductive performance. On a herd basis, subclinical ketosis is much more costly than clinical ketosis. Prevention is achieved largely through effective dry cow programs that encompass both good nutrition and excellent cow management. However, certain additives are helpful in reducing subclinical ketosis. These include propylene glycol, rumen-protected choline, and, where approved for dairy cattle, ionophores. Effective monitoring programs are a critical component to managing subclinical ketosis. ','Fundamental, Metabolic disorders, adverse effects','Subclinical ketosis is an important and common disease in lactating dairy cows. Prevention depends largely on effective dry cow nutrition and management. However, certain feed additives, such as ionophores and rumen-protected choline, may be beneficial. Given the cost of subclinical ketosis, the fact that it is a common problem in early lactation, and the strong association with clinical disease, monitoring programs for subclinical ketosis during the first few weeks of lactation may be warranted. There are several cowside tests for subclinical ketosis available; however, all of the current tests have their strengths and weaknesses. The design and frequency of a subclinical ketosis monitoring program will depend on the purpose of the program and the frequency of disease within the herd.','Most periparturient abnormalities have some metabolic element as a component of the sufficient cause of clinical disease. The metabolic disturbance of milk fever can be measured through low serum calcium concentrations. Negative energy balance, fat mobilization, and subsequent elevations in ketone body concentrations play a contributing role in the expression of fatty liver syndrome, clinical ketosis, and abomasal displacement. A negative energy balance may also increase the risk of retained placenta, metritis, and mastitis through impaired immune function. A third category of metabolic disease in early lactation might include rumen acidosis, which is marked by low rumen pH. Thus, calcium homeostasis, energy balance, and rumen pH are important considerations for disease prevention in transition dairy cows (Goff and Horst, 1997).In general, subclinical disease incidence is far more common than clinical disease, frequently going unnoticed. It may be associated with significant clinical d','Amir Hossein Asgari Safdar (2015). Fundamental Research in Relation to Minimizing Adverse Effects on Metabolic Disorders . Biological Forum â€“ An International Journal 7(1): 1156-1163.'),(4290,'117','Genetic Analysis of Grain Yield and Plant Height in full diallel Crosses of Bread Wheat','Behnam Naserian Khiabani, Saeid Aharizad and Seyed Abolghasem Mohammadi','185 BEHNAM NASERIAN KHIABANI.pdf','',1,'A full diallel cross study comprising of five bread wheat (Triticum aestivum L.) cultivars was carried out with parents and F2 progeny to determine combining ability, gene action, and correlations for grain yield, plant height and their components under irrigated and water deficient stress. Estimates of the genetic components of variation as well as ratio of GCA/SCA showed that all the characters were predominantly controlled by additive gene action. The results revealed insensitivity of both kinds of gene effects to the environmental variations. Partitioning the GCA and SCA effect to male and female showed that maternal effect case over estimate in value of general and specific combining ability. The estimates of general combining ability pointed out that the best general combiners for the plant height and its components were dwarf mutant (As-48) which appeared to appreciate parent for reduce plant height and also increase spike length in wheat breeding program. Our results revealed ','Combining ability, Mutant line, Plant height, Terminal water deficient, Wheat','Overall, significant genetic variation were observed for plant height and its compound that investigated in this research. Significant GCA for all the traits implies the role of additive gene action in genetic control of these traits. Significant SCA in some traits, such as yield and plant height, manifest the effects of non-additive genes in controlling these traits. However, the ratios of GCA/SCA imply the higher contribution of additive gene effects to the inheritance of all the characters. The preponderance of additive gene action in explaining genetic variations in plant height and its compound indicates the possibility for their genetic improvement through accumulating favorable alleles from dwarf mutant (AS-48) with highly negative GCA values for PH, NL2,NL3 and PL and highly positive value for SL and GN in the target genotypes using conventional breeding methods. Our results indicated insensitivity of both kinds of gene effects to the environmental variations, therefore, same b','Drought is one of the major environmental challenges in crop productions to worldwide today, and recent global climate change has made this situation more serious. Thus, improvement of wheat production for drought tolerance is a major objective in plant breeding programs (Farshadfar et al. 2012). Plant height at maturity is considered as a factor in plant response to drought stress. Drought resistance and dwarfism are important traits for wheat breeding. Dwarfism genes have been introduced in the last 50 years and is now commonly used in breeding programs around the world (Edwards et al. 1976).\r\nMaluszynski and Szarejko (2003) reported at least 13 mutations for semidwarfness, that induced by chemical or physical mutagens in wheat. However, only two of them have high breeding value and brought significant economic impact. Both these dwarfing genes reduce significantly stem internode length while having no direct effects on spike morphology. Wheat breeding programs mostly involve hybridi','Behnam Naserian Khiabani, Saeid Aharizad and Seyed Abolghasem Mohammadi (2015). Genetic Analysis of Grain Yield and Plant Height in full diallel Crosses of Bread Wheat .Biological Forum â€“ An International Journal 7(1): 1164-1172.'),(4291,'117','Effects of Specific Essential Oil Compounds on Feed Intake, Blood Metabolites and Body Condition Score in Early Lactating Dairy Cows','Farzad Hashemzadeh-Cigari, Saeed Rasoulinezhad, Farshad Kateb\r\nand Morteza Hosseini-Ghaffari\r\n','186 SAEED RASOULINEZHAD.pdf','',1,'The objective of this study was to determine effect of dietary essential oil (EO) compounds, which contained cinnamaldehyde, eugenol, peppermint, coriander, cumin, lemongrass, and an organic carrier on feed intake, blood metabolites, and body condition score (BCS). Forty Holstein cows were assigned to one of two treatment groups: a Control and EO fed. The experiment lasted 50 days. Dry matter intake (DMI) was measured daily while blood metabolites and BCS were measured at d 30 and 50 of the experiment. In conclusion, our result showed that supplementation with EO mixture increased DMI and improved energy status as evidenced by lower BCS loss and improved some blood metabolic profiles at early lactation.','dairy cow, feed additive, plant extract','We conclude that supplementation with a blend of EO can be useful nutritional modification to alleviate the decreased DMI and improve energy status in early lactating dairy cows','Essential oils (EO) are bioactive plant compounds found in many plants that considered as possible alternatives to feed antibiotics in animal production (Wallace, 2004). Recently, there have been several investigations have studied the influence of various EO on production performance in lactating dairy cattle (Santos et al., 2010; Tekippe et al., 2013; Wall et al., 2014). Calsamiglia et al. (2007) noted that plant extracts cinnamaldehyde, eugenol, and capsicum have antimicrobial properties and may modify the rumen environment. A number of studies have been reported the effect of EO on milk production in dairy cattle is not consistent, ranging from -6.7 to + 5% differences from control (Kung et al., 2008; Patra, 2011). Feeding a blend of EO (thymol, eugenol, vanillin, guaiacol, and limonene) at a moderate dose (600 mg/d) increased DMI of lactating dairy cows (Benchaar et al., 2007). Spanghero et al. (2009) reported that a blend of eugenol, and cinnamaldehyde fed at moderate doses (~500','Farzad Hashemzadeh-Cigari, Saeed Rasoulinezhad, Farshad Kateb\r\nand Morteza Hosseini-Ghaffari (2015). Effects of Specific Essential Oil Compounds on Feed Intake, Blood Metabolites and Body Condition Score in Early Lactating Dairy Cows .Biological Forum â€“'),(4292,'117','Determination of Energy Balance for Sugar Beet Production','Mohammad Ali Salehi, Morteza Almassi, Ali Mohammad Borghai and Babak Beheshti','187 MORTEZA ALMASS.pdf','',1,'This conducted to evaluate the energy balance in sugar beet production in Khoy a northwestern city of Iran. For this reason data was collected by using questionnaires and face to face interviews with 110 farmers. Results showed that total energy inputs and output were 60575.604 and 225075 MJ ha-1, respectively. Efficiency Energy Ratio (ER) was 3.72 and Energy Productivity (EP) was 0.96 MJha-1.The results also showed that the indirect and non-renewable energy sources were 72.17% and 88.57%, respectively. The high rate of non-renewable and indirect energy inputs proved an intensive use of pesticides, chemical fertilizers, tractor and machinery and irrigation system consumption in these agro-ecosystems. Finally, giving a proper information to farmers about extension services in case of machinery combination, fertilizing, spraying and soil test, in a proper time, can have a great effect in sustainability of the sugar beet production','Energy, Sugar beet, ER, EP, Indirect Energy, Non-renewable Energy','The results showed that the maximum energy consumption of chemical fertilizers 24155.1 MJha-1 and 39.88% of the total energy input. Indirect and non-renewable energy sources were as 72.17 % and 88.57%, respectively. The high rate of non-renewable and indirect energy inputs indicate an intensive use of pesticides, chemical fertilizers, tractor and machinery and irrigation system consumption in these agroecosystems. The efficiency energy ratio (ER) obtained is 3.72. High energy ratio in sugar beet production systems is due to higher energy output in comparison to energy consumed.','The effective usage of agricultural products and increasing the amount of production in a unit area are both necessary because the extreme boundaries of agricultural areas in Iran have been reached. Therefore the most suitable method for products such as sugar beet plants must be determined and applied. Sugar, which is obtained from the sugar beet plant, has an important place in the human diet. Moreover the head and the leaves, which are byproducts of sugar beets, are used for producing meals (residues of sugar beet), which are an important nutrient source in animal diet. \r\nSince the energy scenario of crop production has changed with the introduction of modern inputs, efficient energy use in agricultural production is an important consideration for sustainability in agriculture.Energy flows are an important component of agricultural ecosystems and many serious environmental problems are related to increased conventional energy utilization due to the adoption of modern technology.\r\nSu','Mohammad Ali Salehi, Morteza Almassi, Ali Mohammad Borghai and Babak Beheshti (2015). Determination of Energy Balance for Sugar Beet Production .Biological Forum â€“ An International Journal 7(1): 1178-1184.'),(4293,'117','Histological Study of the African Ostrich liver and Anatomical Comparison of it with Poultry Liver','Dahmardeh Moslem','188 DAHMARDEH MOSLEM.pdf','',1,'The histological and anatomical structure of the livers of twenty ostrich and anatomical structure of twenty poultry were checked. The liver of ostrich is situated further cranially than in poultries and extends cranial to the heart, lying mainly on the sternum and it is light brown colored. Our results regarding the liver of ostrich revealed the presence of two lobes: a left lobe, subdivided into three lobes: caudodorsal lobe, caudoventral lobe, left intermediate lobe and a right undivided lobe. The poultry liver has two lobes. The right lobe is larger than the left lobe. It is positioned ventral and caudal to the heart (as there is no diaphragm). It is almost associated to the proventriculus and spleen. It has a thin capsule and unclear lobation. It is dark brown colored (except just after hatching where it is yellow). ','African Ostrich, caudodorsal lobe, caudoventral lobe, left intermediate lobe','The histological and anatomical structure of the livers of twenty ostrich and anatomical structure of twenty poultry were checked. The liver of ostrich is situated further cranially than in poultries and extends cranial to the heart, lying mainly on the sternum and it is light brown colored. Our results regarding the liver of ostrich revealed the presence of two lobes: a left lobe, subdivided into three lobes: caudodorsal lobe, caudoventral lobe, left intermediate lobe and a right undivided lobe. The poultry liver has two lobes. The right lobe is larger than the left lobe. It is positioned ventral and caudal to the heart (as there is no diaphragm). It is almost associated to the proventriculus and spleen. It has a thin capsule and unclear lobation. It is dark brown colored (except just after hatching where it is yellow). ','The ostrich are used principally for the production of meat of highest protein value (Aarons, 1994), and lowest cholesterol level (Anon, 1998) as well as ostrich are used for the production of leather and feather (Horbanczuk et al., 1998). Papers dealing with the comparison of the ostrich and poultry liver were found to be rare (Bezuidenhout, 1986). Compared with those carried on comparison of the poultry and many other domestic birds liver for example goose and turkey (Hassouna et al., 2001), pigeon and fowl (Ibrahim et al., 1992), ducks (Lakshmi et al., 1975) as well as quail (Zayed et al., 2004 and El-Zoghby, 2005). Therefore this study was done as a trial to comparison of the ostrich and poultry liver and to establish a basic data that might be required for further studies in the field.\r\nMATERIALS AND METHODS\r\nTwenty ostrich liver and twenty poultry liver were collected from slaughterhouse of the city of Zabol. In first the ostrich livers were examined separately. \r\nLength, width a','Dahmardeh Moslem (2015). Histological Study of the African Ostrich liver and Anatomical Comparison of it with Poultry Liver . Biological Forum â€“ An International Journal 7(1): 1185-1188.'),(4294,'117','Selection for Drought Tolerance in Sugar Beet Genotypes\r\n (Beta vulgaris L.)\r\n','Pezhman Hesadi, Daryoush Fathollah Taleghani, Amirhossien Shiranirad,\r\nJahanfar Daneshian and Ali Jaliliyan\r\n','189 PEZHMAN HESADI.pdf','',1,'In this research, the response to drought stress of five sugar beet promising, drought tolerant genotypes along with a foreign tolerant genotype called IR7 and a domestic, non-tolerant variety called Gadook as the control varieties was studied in a spilt-split plot experiment based on a randomized complete block design with three replications in two locations, Karaj and Kermanshah, Iran, in 2012. Main plots consisted of two irrigation levels (well-watered and water-limited), sub-plots consisted of two levels of salicylic acid application (spraying and non-spraying) and sub-sub-plots included seven genotypes. Fourteen drought tolerance indices used in this study were: stress tolerance index (STI), stress susceptibility index (SSI), tolerance index (TOL), harmonic mean (HM), geometric mean productivity (GMP), mean productivity (MP), yield index (YI), yield stability index (YSI), drought resistance index (DI), abiotic tolerance index (ATI), stress non-stress production index (SNPI), modif','Genotypes, Sugar beet, Drought tolerance indices, Multi-locations','In summary, significant genotype Ã— location interaction for white sugar yield in stress conditions, showed the influence of changes in the location environment on the white sugar yield performance of the genotypes evaluated. Based on biplot analysis, the indices GMP, STI, K1STI, K2STI, MP, HM and YI exhibited strong correlation with YS and YP. Therefore, they can discriminate drought tolerant genotypes with high white sugar yield at the same manner under stress and non-stress conditions (group A of Fernandez) in both locations (Kermanshah and Karaj). With regard to these indices and cluster analysis, in both locations the genotypes 2 and 3 were the most drought tolerant genotypes with higher stability than the other genotypes.','Sugar beet is an important field crop in the agricultural system in Iran. Drought is the most important limitation to sugar beet (Beta vulgaris L.) production in Iran and other areas world. As increased irrigation is not a viable answer to the problem, an economically and environmentally desirable solution is new varieties with decreased sensitivity to water deficits. However, there is little genotypic information on drought tolerance in sugar beet, and breeders are not equipped to make these selections. The objectives of this study were to assess the degree of genotypic diversity for drought-related tolerance indices and to measure the strength of association between these indices and crop performance. Drought tolerance indices are described in a companion paper. Assessing the genetic resources to improve drought tolerance in sugar beet. In many cases, increased irrigation inputs are not available option either because the water resources are not available or that they are too expensi','Pezhman Hesadi, Daryoush Fathollah Taleghani, Amirhossien Shiranirad,\r\nJahanfar Daneshian and Ali Jaliliyan (2015). Selection for Drought Tolerance in Sugar Beet Genotypes (Beta vulgaris L.).Biological Forum â€“ An International Journal 7(1): 118'),(4295,'117','Forecasting Monthly and Annual Flow Rate of Jarrahi River using Stochastic Model','Ebrahim Nohani','190 EBRAHIM NOHANI.pdf','',1,'Limited available water resources, increased demand and water sources pollution in recent decades have increased the need for water resources management. In this regard, prediction and modeling of hydrologic systems are considered as important management tools to predict the future values of these systems. Stochastic methods can be mentioned as such models. In this study, using stochastic modeling, we predicted the annual and monthly flow rate values of Jarrahi River in Khuzestan province. The models presented in this study included simultaneous autoregressive moving average for modeling annual data and multivariate autoregressive moving average for monthly data. The SAMS 2007 software was used to implement all of the above models.','Water resources, Modeling, Stochastic, Jarrahi River, Hydrologic systems','Annual and monthly data on the flow rate of Jarrahi River, located in the province of Khuzestan, from the 41-year statistics of Gorgor hydrometric station were used for stochastic modeling. The provided models included autoregressive models, autoregressive moving average models and the simultaneous autoregressive moving average for modeling annual data.\r\nThe periodic univariate autoregressive moving average and multivariate autoregressive moving average were used for monthly data. Using the SAMS 2007 software, all of the above models were fitted to the data. The provided had a relatively good performance in predicting the discharge values in the years with statistics. As mentioned on the model testing, the CARMA (1,1) and MPAR (2) models were identified and determined suitable for fitting annual data and monthly data, respectively, which could well predict the values of flow rate at 20% of the experimental data. In some graphs, there were some deviations due to the large range of data ','Over the last few decades, predicting future values of hydrologic systems have come to the focus of the researchers\' consideration for planning and management of water resources. For this purpose, various methods including stochastic models can be used as a management tool to predict future values of these systems. Stochastic methods are based on time series, and in some areas, we are faced with a lack of historical data. The methods proposed by Box and Jenkins (1970) have been used more widely, which are based on the combination of autoregressive moving average (ARMA) methods. Meanwhile, similar efforts have been made on using monthly autoregressive models and ARMA approaches for modeling of hydrological processes (Rao et al., 1982, Ubertini, 1978). Kelps (1990) used the conceptual multivariable autoregressive moving average model for monthly runoff at 9 stations in southern Italy (Finzi et al., 1975). This multi-station model is a continuous-time ARMA model (CARMA), which considers t','Ebrahim Nohani (2015). Forecasting Monthly and Annual Flow Rate of Jarrahi River using Stochastic Model .Biological Forum â€“ An International Journal 7(1): 1205-1210.'),(4296,'117','The Correlation Study of important Barley agronomic traits and grain yield by Path Analysis','Raham Mohtashami','191 RAHAM MOHTASHAMI.pdf','',1,'Path analysis was suitable method for direct and indirect effects on yield traits. This study was conducted to study the correlation between the number agronomic performance traits and cause and effect relationships between them in four barley cultivars and lines with three replications in a randomized complete block design in Boyer Ahmad region. During growth and after harvest was recording completed of 10 random tillers per plant traits, heading date, arrival date, plant height, grain weight and yield. After harvesting were determined the grain weight and yield. By analysis of variance and covariance to determine the correlation coefficients between traits and path analysis were used for the correlation coefficient analysis of direct and indirect effects. Analysis showed no significant difference in level 5% between yield treatments. Based on analysis and comparison treatments, superior yield to treatments 2 and 4 (cultivar Valfajr) with average yield 6.520 and 6 490 t/ha. This two l','barley, coefficients, correlation, path analysis, traits','Path analysis was suitable method for direct and indirect effects on yield traits. This study was conducted to study the correlation between the number agronomic performance traits and cause and effect relationships between them in four barley cultivars and lines with three replications in a randomized complete block design in Boyer Ahmad region. During growth and after harvest was recording completed of 10 random tillers per plant traits, heading date, arrival date, plant height, grain weight and yield. After harvesting were determined the grain weight and yield. By analysis of variance and covariance to determine the correlation coefficients between traits and path analysis were used for the correlation coefficient analysis of direct and indirect effects. Analysis showed no significant difference in level 5% between yield treatments. Based on analysis and comparison treatments, superior yield to treatments 2 and 4 (cultivar Valfajr) with average yield 6.520 and 6 490 t/ha. This two l','Barley (Hordeum vulgar L.) is the world\'s fourth most important cereal after wheat, rice, and corn. Barley is in the second place among the cereals after wheat in Iran (Matlubi and Akbari, 1983).Barley has better compatibility than other cereals, and regarding this only the wheat is to close it (Rasmusson, 198).This study investigated the correlation between important agronomic traits and grain yield of barley genotypes to achieve the selection criteria to improve the yield.\r\nAccording to Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO) data, in 2008, the global production of barley was 141175906 tons with an average yield of 2538kg/ha. Iran, owning 1.45million hectares of planted land with barley, has 2.6 of the world\'s land area under barley cultivation. Average barley yield in Iran has been 1382kg/ha, and in 2008, its production was estimated two million tons, allocating 4.1% of the world\'s total production.\r\nThe linear relationship between variables is expressed by correlation coefficient, ','Raham Mohtashami (2015). The Correlation Study of important Barley agronomic traits and grain yield by Path Analysis .Biological Forum â€“ An International Journal 7(1): 1211-1219.'),(4297,'117','Study of Molecular Heterogeneity of Carnation mottle virus in Iran','A. Barzegar ','192 A. BARZEGAR.pdf','',1,'Carnation is commercially one of the most important cut-flower crops worldwide. Carnation mottle virus (CarMV) is the type member of the genus Carmovirus of Tobamovirideae family. It can be mechanically transmitted and causes significant losses including poor quality of cut-flowers and fewer yields on carnation crops. In an attempt to surveying the CarMV heterogeneity, 120 CarMV isolates were collected from carnation cultivation greenhouses in central (Mahallat, Pakdasht) and northern (Sari) parts of Iran. Presence of virus was verified in 72% of the collected samples as serologically tested by DAS-ELISA method using polyclonal antibody. Biological properties were studied through mechanical inoculation of extracted sap of CarMV infected leaves onto the leaves of some test plants. Mosaic symptoms were appeared on the leaves of those named indicator plants followed by chlorotic lesions on the leaves of C. quina. Coat protein gene of representative isolates was amplified by RT-PCR method ','Carnation mottle virus, Molecular heterogeneity, Coat protein, Phylogenetic tree','Carnation is commercially one of the most important cut-flower crops worldwide. Carnation mottle virus (CarMV) is the type member of the genus Carmovirus of Tobamovirideae family. It can be mechanically transmitted and causes significant losses including poor quality of cut-flowers and fewer yields on carnation crops. In an attempt to surveying the CarMV heterogeneity, 120 CarMV isolates were collected from carnation cultivation greenhouses in central (Mahallat, Pakdasht) and northern (Sari) parts of Iran. Presence of virus was verified in 72% of the collected samples as serologically tested by DAS-ELISA method using polyclonal antibody. Biological properties were studied through mechanical inoculation of extracted sap of CarMV infected leaves onto the leaves of some test plants. Mosaic symptoms were appeared on the leaves of those named indicator plants followed by chlorotic lesions on the leaves of C. quina. Coat protein gene of representative isolates was amplified by RT-PCR method ','Carnation (Dianthus caryophyllus L.) has been cultivated for over 2,000 years in Asia and Europe. It is currently one of the most commercially important cut-flower crops in Europe, America, Japan, Australia and Israel (Lisa, 1995). Because of the vast lands with very varied climatic conditions, Iran is one of the largest producers of ornamental flowers and ranks 17th worldwide in terms of total area under cultivation of decorative flowers. Carnation is economically one of the most important cut-flower crops in Iran with annual production rate of 157 millions flowers. Tehran and Markazi (Mahallat) provinces in central parts of Iran are the main carnation cut-flower production areas with overall production rate of 98%. Nevertheless, other regions especially northern Iran is increasingly improving carnation cultivation (Raadmehr, 2011). Carnation is affected by several viruses which can often cause severe losses in some cases. They are including Carnation mottle virus (CarMV), Carnation e','A. Barzegar (2015). Study of Molecular Heterogeneity of Carnation mottle virus in Iran .Biological Forum â€“ An International Journal 7(1): 1220-1225'),(4298,'117','Investigation of the effects of Pre-Treatment of Seed with Ascorbic Acid on the Activities of Antioxidant Enzymes and Destructive Biomarkers on Wheat Seedlings under Salinity Stress Conditions','Zana Amini Nezho, Soran Sharafi and Saman Yazdanseta','193 SORAN SHARAFI.pdf','',1,'In order to investigate the effect of the pre-treatment of seed with ascorbic acid on antioxidant enzymes under salinity stress, some wheat amino acids (Triticum aestivum L.) of Pishgam cultivar were studied with a factorial experiment in the form of a completely randomized design. The study was performed three replication, with acid ascorbic factors in three concentrations of 0, 50 and 100 Mm and in three levels of 0, 75 and 150 mM in crop plants in a laboratory at Islamic Azad University, Mahabad Branch. The results indicated that by increasing the concentration of ascorbic acid, the content of catalase, superoxide dismutase, glutathione peroxidase, malondialdehyde and D-tyrosine was significantly decreased. At the same time, the increase in salt concentration to 150 mM significantly increased the content of catalase, superoxide dismutase, glutathione peroxidase, malondialdehyde and D-tyrosine of the wheat seedlings. In fact, applying ascorbic acid decreased the activation of catalas','Salinity, Wheat, Antioxidants, Ascorbic Acid, Destructive Biomarkers.','Considering the results obtained from wheat seeds, it can be concluded that in order to confront salinity stress, some physiological characteristics, including decreasing chlorophyll, increasing activation of catalase, superoxide dismutase, glutathione peroxidase and malondialdehyde enzymes, and the accumulation of D-tyrosine amino acids are deployed that cause decrease of the wet weight or biomass of wheat. A lack of activation of antioxidant enzymes leads to a decrease in the ability of the plant to tolerate damage resulting from salinity stress. In these conditions, ascorbic acid acts as an antioxidant, prevents the activation increase of the mentioned enzymes and substitutes for their activation. On the other hand, ascorbic acid prevents an increase in the amount of D-tyrosine, and in these conditions assimilate of the plant is applied to increase the biomass, which will finally increase performance.','The existence of soil under salinity conditions has been reported in almost all climate zones and at different heights above sea level (Rao et al., 2006). Salinity is a factor that seriously limits the production of crops in different regions including arid and semi-arid regions. Irrigation with inappropriate or saline water is one of the most important factors of salt increase. The soil becomes saline, and salinity is created as a result. \r\nBread wheat (Triticum aestivum L.) is one of the important crops in the world and the main food source of people living in arid and semi-arid regions. In these regions, water lack as the primary factor of soil salinity is considered the secondary factor in the reduction of plant growth and the functioning of the seed (Munns et al., 2006). Priming is a method that seeks the proper solutions to increase the percentage of germination rate, and especially to create homogeneous germination and uniformity in farms (Farooq et al., 2005). Nowadays, pre-tre','Zana Amini Nezho, Soran Sharafi and Saman Yazdanseta (2015). Investigation of the effects of Pre-Treatment of Seed with Ascorbic Acid on the Activities of Antioxidant Enzymes and Destructive Biomarkers on Wheat Seedlings under Salinity Stress Conditions .'),(4299,'117','Plasma Collagen XVIII in Response to Intensive Aerobic Running and Aqueous Extraction of black Crataegus elbursensis in Male Rats','Ahmad Abdi and Asieh Abbassi Daloii','194 AHMAD ABDI.pdf','',1,'Angiogenesis is a process that can be classified into physiological and pathophysiological forms. Collagen XVIII is a part of extracellular protein and heparan sulfate proteoglycans in vascular epithelial and endothelial basement membrane cause the release of endostatin from noncollagenous collagen XVIII. Endostatin inhibits the growth of endothelial cells, inhibits angiogenesis, weakens different types of cancer, and the growth of tumors. The purpose of the current study was to investigate the effect of intensive aerobic running with or without aqueous extraction of black Crataegus elbursensis on Collagen XVIII in male rats. Design: Thirty-two Wistar male rats (4-6 weeks old, 125-135 gr weight) were acquired from the Pasteur\'s Institute (Amol, Mazandaran), and randomly assigned into control (n = 16) and training (n = 16) groups. Rats were further divided into saline-control (SC) (n = 8), saline-training (ST) (n = 8), crataegus pentaegyna extraction -control (CPEC) (n = 8), and cra','aerobic running, Crataegus elbursensis, Collagen XVIII ','Angiogenesis is a process that can be classified into physiological and pathophysiological forms. Collagen XVIII is a part of extracellular protein and heparan sulfate proteoglycans in vascular epithelial and endothelial basement membrane cause the release of endostatin from noncollagenous collagen XVIII. Endostatin inhibits the growth of endothelial cells, inhibits angiogenesis, weakens different types of cancer, and the growth of tumors. The purpose of the current study was to investigate the effect of intensive aerobic running with or without aqueous extraction of black Crataegus elbursensis on Collagen XVIII in male rats. Design: Thirty-two Wistar male rats (4-6 weeks old, 125-135 gr weight) were acquired from the Pasteur\'s Institute (Amol, Mazandaran), and randomly assigned into control (n = 16) and training (n = 16) groups. Rats were further divided into saline-control (SC) (n = 8), saline-training (ST) (n = 8), crataegus pentaegyna extraction -control (CPEC) (n = 8), and cra','The adaptations that occur in human body after doing exercises training are a factor to help healthy people stay away from certain diseases. One of the main adaptations is a change in blood circulation, especially in vessels. The increase of capillary density is dependent on the balance between angiogenic and angiostatic factors (Oâ€™Reilly et al., 1994, Hanahan and Folkman 1996). Inappropriate angiogenesis may be accompanied by or associated with some disorders, or directly with a disease. Disorder in Angiogenesis regulators is often associated with the development of angiogenesis related to such diseases as atherosclerosis. Most studies show that the changes made to angiogenic developmental factors resulted from physical exercises indicate the low level of stimulators compared with inhibitors. It is believed that the plasma level of VEGF-A, the important angiogenic factor, is reduced after physical exercise (Folkman et al., 1971, Richardson et al., 2000, Asano et al., 1998, Gusta','Ahmad Abdi and Asieh Abbassi Daloii (2015). Plasma Collagen XVIII in Response to Intensive Aerobic Running and Aqueous Extraction of black Crataegus elbursensis in Male Rats .Biological Forum â€“ An International Journal 7(1): 1233-1239 .'),(4300,'117','Investigation of the Synergetic Antimicrobial Activity of PLGA- Methicillin on Methicillin Resistance Staphylococcus aurous','Nasibeh Rezaii, Anoosh Eghdami and Mohammad Majid Mojtahedi','195 ANOOSH EGHDAMI.pdf','',1,'Antibiotic resistance in pathogens has become a serious problem world wide. Therefore, the search for new antibiotics for drug resistant pathogens is an important endeavour. The present study was undertaken with the objective of using Nano particle to study the methods to overcome these problems. Poly lactic-co-glycolic acid (PLGA) Nano particle containing methicillin were prepared by the A double emulsion process diffusion method. The resulting nanoparticles were analyzed for their, particle size and size distribution, drug loading and entrapment efficiency, thermal properties with XRD apparatus and antibacterial activity by disc diffusion and MIC antibiogram methods. The nanoparticles prepared in this study were spherical, with an average particle size of 87-136nm. Drug release studies performed in phosphate buffer at pH 7.4 indicated slow release of meticillin from 1day to 4 days. On antibacterial analysis, the minimum inhibitory concentration nanoparticles was at least two times lo','Drug delivery, PLGA, MRSA, MIC, antibiotic resistance ','Antibiotic resistance in pathogens has become a serious problem world wide. Therefore, the search for new antibiotics for drug resistant pathogens is an important endeavour. The present study was undertaken with the objective of using Nano particle to study the methods to overcome these problems. Poly lactic-co-glycolic acid (PLGA) Nano particle containing methicillin were prepared by the A double emulsion process diffusion method. The resulting nanoparticles were analyzed for their, particle size and size distribution, drug loading and entrapment efficiency, thermal properties with XRD apparatus and antibacterial activity by disc diffusion and MIC antibiogram methods. The nanoparticles prepared in this study were spherical, with an average particle size of 87-136nm. Drug release studies performed in phosphate buffer at pH 7.4 indicated slow release of meticillin from 1day to 4 days. On antibacterial analysis, the minimum inhibitory concentration nanoparticles was at least two times lo','Staphylococcus aureus, versatile human pathogens responsible for nosocomial and community-associated infections is associated with high morbidity and mortality rate. However, emerging reports revealed that increase rate of hospital-acquired infections, are mostly due to antibiotic-resistant pathogens. Of the resistant pathogens that had attracted public health interest worldwide is methicillin-resistant S. aureus (MRSA). It is major cause of nosocomial infection and colonization, resulting in morbidity and mortality. Consequential effect of MRSA infection had resulted in, prolonged hospitalization, increased in medical expenses, and difficulty in patient treatment and management. In US hospitals, MRSA accounts for mostof invasive S. aureus infections, with high fatality rate (Okon et al., 2013). \r\nThe resistance to antimicrobial agents is an increasingly global problem worldwide, especially among nosocomial pathogens. Staphylococci have become one of the most common causes of noso comi','Nasibeh Rezaii, Anoosh Eghdami and Mohammad Majid Mojtahedi (2015). Investigation of the Synergetic Antimicrobial Activity of PLGA- Methicillin on Methicillin Resistance Staphylococcus aurous .Biological Forum â€“ An International Journal 7(1): 1240-1247'),(4301,'117','Investigation of Physicochemical Properties of Isoniazid and its Target Protein -Ligand Docking','Anoosh Eghdami, Nasrin Pakdaman, Fariba Araghi and Arezou Araghi','196 ANOOSH EGHDAMI.pdf','',1,'The continuing rise in tuberculosis (TB) incidence especially in the present of human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) infection and the problem of drug resistance strains towards isoniazid have prompted the research on new drug candidates and study the physicochemical properties of isoniazid target protein, as well as the mechanism of drug resistance. In this work, we calculated parameters such as atomic charges, energy (Î”E), chemical shift anisotropy (Î´), asymmetry parameter (Î·),chemical shift anisotropy (Î”Ïƒ), dipole orientation , isotropic, anisotropic, NMR determinant, distance matrix determinant, magnetic shielding (GIAO) for isoniazid and riphampin using the HF method with 3-21 G, 6-31G, basis set. Crystal structure of isoniazid target protein (PDB-entry: 1ENY) and the active site structure is characterized by iGEMDOCK. Bioinformatics computation for isoniazid target protein was carried out with ProtParam(www.expasy.org) that computes various physico-chemical properties that c','Isoniazid, Target protein, NMR, Tuberclusis, ProtParam, IGEMDOCK','These investigations have showed that theoretical studies can be used to successfully explain biochemical difficulties. Similar with experimental methods, they deal assumptions and interpretation, and they have their limitations, but there are many problems that are solved using theory studies. Consequently, theoretical calculations are a competitive alternative to experiments and to successfully assumptions and also interpretation for biochemical investigations.','Tuberculosis (TB) has plagued mankind for 5,000 years, dating back to the ancient Egyptians, and was recognized by Hippocrates in 460 AD as a deadly communicable disease, called phthisis or consumption (Osler and McCrae 1907). In 1882, Robert Koch discovered that the bacillus Mycobacterium tuberculosis (Mtb) was the causative agent of TB, noting that: â€œIf the importance of a disease for mankind is measured from the number of fatalities which are due to it, then tuberculosis must be considered much more important than those most feared infectious diseases, plague, cholera, and the like. Statistics have shown that one seventh of all humans die of tuberculosis (Koch, 1982). Today, TB remains a devastating disease. The World Health Organization (WHO) estimates that 2 billion people are infected worldwide, with 8.8 million people becoming newly infected, and 1.4 million succumbing each year (WHO, 2000).\r\nToday, combined administration of antibiotics constitutes the first line chemotherape','Anoosh Eghdami, Nasrin Pakdaman, Fariba Araghi and Arezou Araghi (2015). Investigation of Physicochemical Properties of Isoniazid and its Target Protein -Ligand Docking .Biological Forum â€“ An International Journal 7(1): 1248-1255 .'),(4302,'117','The Effect of 8 Weeks of Tai Chi Exercises on Girls\' Static and Dynamic Balance with Intellectual Disability','Madandar Azadeh, Sokhanguei Yahya and Saboonchi Reza','197 SOKHANGUEI YAHYA.pdf','',1,'Individuals with intellectual disability are slower and have less physical activities due to their intellectual and mental condition and the conventional trend of the society. As a consequence of this slowness, they have somatic-motor weaknesses. The objective of this study is to examine the effect if 8-week Tai Chi exercises on the balance of girls with intellectual disability. This is a quasi-empirical research. Based on its essence, it is a field study. Research design was in form of pretest-posttest including two test and control groups. The test group did Tai Chi exercises three 60min sessions a week under direct supervision of the researcher. Exercises gradually got harder. The control group did not do these exercises. After 8 weeks, both groups took posttest. Results showed that hypotheses are significantly higher in test group as compared to control group (p<0.05). Generally, results of hypothesis testing showed that 8-week Tai Chi exercises can affect participants\' balance. Ba','Dynamic Balance, Intellectually Disable, Static Balance, Tai Chi','Intellectually disable people are those with weaker mental activities as compared to their peers. As a result, they cannot meet family and society expectations and demands. They are deprived of learning ability, adaptability with environment, exploiting experiences, understanding concepts, and proper inference in various degrees. This disability exists from the very first stages of childhood. Intellectually disable people are among individuals who have less physical activity and slower as compared to normal people due to special intellectual and mental condition and the trend existing in the society. As a consequence of this slowness, they have somatic-motor weaknesses (Timothy et al., 1999). Since Tai chi is a kind of Chinese martial art done for improving health, increasing life, and gaining mental peace; this sport is classified as mild martial sports. It leads muscles to get smooth, simple, flexible, and strong due reinforcement, flexibility, and softening happening after doing Tai','In contemporaneous life, sport and physical exercises and activities are the best way to achieve living. In all physical and mental diseases and when treatment and medication no longer work, it is sport and physical movement that work (Agrawal et al., 2009, Gauchard et al., 2003).\r\nIntellectual and mental disability is an ordinary extensive disorder and a chronic illness during life. The factors of this mental disease affect the structure and/or expansive function of brain and/or both with a range of mild to severe signs. These people tend to seat and reluctant to attend exercise schedules which itself exposes them to many chronic diseases. There are over 400 factors in the creation of Down Syndrome: nutritional disorders, injuries in childhood or at birth, infectious diseases and poisonings like Fetal Alcohol Syndrome, mother\'s drug use during pregnancy, ingestion of leaded substances, poverty, malnutrition, and lack of knowledge supports (which enhance intellectual development and ad','Madandar Azadeh, Sokhanguei Yahya and Saboonchi Reza (2015).The Effect of 8 Weeks of Tai Chi Exercises on Girls\' Static and Dynamic Balance with Intellectual Disability .Biological Forum â€“ An International Journal 7(1): 1256-1259 . '),(4303,'117','Applying Artificial Neural Networks for Modeling of Environmental Impacts of Tobacco Production','Majid Yousefinejad-Ostadkelayeh, Ali Rajabipour and Majid Khanali','198 ALI RAJABIPOUR.pdf','',1,'The main aim of this study was the prediction if environmental indices of tobacco production in north of Iran. Data were collected randomly from 90 farms in Mazandaran province by face to face questionnaire method. Initially, Life cycle assessment (LCA) methodology was developed to assess all the environmental impacts associated with tobacco cultivation in the studied area. The ten impact categories including abiotic depletion, global warming potential, ozone layer depletion potential, human toxicity potential, fresh water aquatic ecotoxicity, marine aquatic ecotoxicity, terrestrial ecotoxicity potential, photochemical oxidation, acidification potential and eutrophication potential were selected as target outputs. Farmgate and one ton of harvested tobacco were chosen as system boundary and functional unit. To find the best topology, several ANN models with different number of hidden layers and neurons in each layer were developed. To assess the best performance, a topology with highest','Artificial neural networks, Environmental impacts, Modeling, Tobacco production','In this study, the ability of ANN model to predict the environmental indices of tobacco production in Mazandaran province in Iran was investigated. Input variables used in ANN models were machinery, diesel fuel, nitrogen, phosphate, potassium, pesticides, electricity and manure while ten environmental impact categories were selected as output parameters. The best topology consisted of an input layer with eight input variables, one hidden layer with twenty neurons in it, and an output layer with 10 output variables (8-20-10 structure). From the results obtained, the developed model gave satisfactory predictions in the studied region and appears to be an appropriate tool for ','Tobacco (Nicotiana tabacum L.) is an important crop plant (Davis and Nielsen 1999) and a member of the nightshade (Solanaceae) family which is one of the largest and most diverse within the angiosperms. This family includes 3,000- 4,000 species (Olmstead et al. 2008), of which a considerable number are of major economic importance as crop, vegetable or ornamental species throughout the world such as potato (Solanum tuberosum), tomato (Solanum lycopersicum), egg plant (Solanum melonena), pepper (Capsicum species) and Petunia (Petunia Ã— hybrida) (Mueller et al. 2005). Tobacco is one of the most valuable agricultural and industrial products that is produced in over 100 countries in the world with different climatic conditions and plays an important role in the economy of them (Tso, 1990). Although tobacco is counted as an important industrial plant in the world, it has not been paid much attention by researchers because of its negative aspect in cigarette production. Nevertheless, tobacc','Majid Yousefinejad-Ostadkelayeh, Ali Rajabipour and Majid Khanali (2015). Applying Artificial Neural Networks for Modeling of Environmental Impacts of Tobacco Production .Biological Forum â€“ An International Journal 7(1): 1260-1266.'),(4304,'117','The Impact of 8-week Selected Pilates Exercises on Lordosis Correction and BMI in Female Teens Aged 15-18','Majidi Siahtan Samira and Behbudi Laleh','199 BEHBUDI LALEH.pdf','',1,'The present study aims at investigating the effects of 8-week selected pilates exercises on lordosis correction and BMI in female teens aged 15-18. In so doing, 24 female students afflicted with lordosis voluntarily participated in the study. Given that participants had the same degree of the lordosis, they were divided into experimental group (N = 12) and control group (N = 12). The former group featured the average age 15.86 Â± 0.78, the average height 156 Â± 4.91cm, the average weight 54.3 Â± 4.27 kg. As for the control group, the average age, height, and weight were 15.9 Â± 1.63, 152.2 Â± 6.39 and 55.5 Â± 7.79respectively. As the first phase of the study, the degree of participants\' lordosis was measured and subsequently, recorded in special sheets. Then, the experimental group was exposed to pilates exercises for 8 weeks - 3 sessions of 45 to 60 min per week) while the other group did not take any pilates exercise. After the exercises were totally done, participants\' degree of lor','Lordosis, Elementary level, Pilates ','To the best of the author\'s knowledge, this is the first study investigating the effect of pilates exercises on the degree of lordosis and Body Mass Index in female students aged 15 to 18. In this research, a series of pilates exercise during a specific period time significantly improved participants\' lordosis, that is to \r\n\r\nsay, the comparison of the pre-test and post-test shows that the degree of their lordosis significantly decreased after doing the exercises. The results of this research are in line with the study done by Youzbashi (2008) investigating the effects of pilates exercises on the correction of lumbar lordosis of women aged 20-30.\r\n \r\n Samira and Laleh 1270 \r\n \r\n Moreover, the results of this study expands upon the works done by Alizadeh (1998), Daneshmandi et al (2005) which examined the effect of corrective exercises on the im','Enjoying physical health and a desirable physical condition is of high significance in life. However, industrial developments and mechanical life brought about some dramatic changes to human life in the recent years, e.g. lessening the level of physical activities and subsequently, increasing physical abnormalities (Alizadeh,1998). The studies in Iran show that about 8 million Iranian female students suffer physical abnormalities and movement disorders. One of the greatest reasons behind such problems is the fact that schools lack good sports facilities (Mandanmohan et al., 2003). As the empirical report s suggest, physical abnormalities have irreversible effects on the performance of cardio-vascular system, blood circulation system, central nervous system, muscles, as well as psychomotor performance (Karami-e-dehkordi 2007). In this regard, the crucial role of the spinal column should not be overlooked. The spinal column acting as the movement axe of our body can be easily damaged du','Majidi Siahtan Samira and Behbudi Laleh (2015). The Impact of 8-week Selected Pilates Exercises on Lordosis Correction and BMI in Female Teens Aged 15-18 .Biological Forum â€“ An International Journal 7(1): 1267-1271 .'),(4305,'117','The Effect of Pilates Exercises on Body Posture and Some Fitness Factors in Educable Mentally Retarded Subjects','Maryam Ostadhassan Baghal, Sokhanguei Yahya and Saboonchi Reza','200 SOKHANGUEI YAHYA @ EZADI.pdf','',1,'Lack of exercise and physical activity worsened physical health of both intellectually and physically disabled subjects and caused abnormalities in these individuals. This also led to limited range of motion of the joints and limbs in these individuals. This may finally cause cardiovascular and respiratory diseases, diabetes, hypertension, obesity, etc. The present study aimed to examine the effect of Pilates exercises on body posture and fitness factors in educable mentally retarded subjects. This was an applied quasi-experimental study with pre-test, post-test and control group. The statistical sample consisted of 30 educable mentally retarded girls who were above 14 years old with an intelligence quotient between 50 and 70. These were divided into two control and experimental groups. Characteristics of the first group (control) consisting of 15 subjects were as follows: Height with 152.47 cm (mean), Weight with 63.62 Â± 10.29 kg (mean and standard deviation), Age with 62.31 Â± 1.46 ','Pilates exercises, balance, mental retardation (intellectual disability','Lack of exercise and physical activity worsened physical health of both intellectually and physically disabled subjects and caused abnormalities in these individuals. This also led to limited range of motion of the joints and limbs in these individuals. This may finally cause cardiovascular and respiratory diseases, diabetes, hypertension, obesity, etc. The present study aimed to examine the effect of Pilates exercises on body posture and fitness factors in educable mentally retarded subjects. This was an applied quasi-experimental study with pre-test, post-test and control group. The statistical sample consisted of 30 educable mentally retarded girls who were above 14 years old with an intelligence quotient between 50 and 70. These were divided into two control and experimental groups. Characteristics of the first group (control) consisting of 15 subjects were as follows: Height with 152.47 cm (mean), Weight with 63.62 Â± 10.29 kg (mean and standard deviation), Age with 62.31 Â± 1.46 ','Physical health and status are important components of human life. Any positive and negative changes in these components can affect other aspects of human life. Pilates Exercise or Contrology was founded and developed by Joseph Pilates in 1920. This training exercise consists of such controlled exercises, which creates a physical harmony between body and the brain and enhances individual ability at any age range. People who do Pilates exercise sleep better, are less angry and stressed and fatigue. Pilates method led to the greatest satisfactory results in less possible time. Pilates Exercise alone is a perfect training method and is designed to achieve and maintain fitness and achieve higher standards of physical fitness. Pilates is a simply useful workout supplement to all sports, which integrate overall body strength and increase flexibility. Implementation of these exercises requires no special skills and equipment. It can be done on a mattress by any individual at any levels suitab','Maryam Ostadhassan Baghal, Sokhanguei Yahya and Saboonchi Reza (2015). The Effect of Pilates Exercises on Body Posture and Some Fitness Factors in Educable Mentally Retarded Subjects .Biological Forum â€“ An International Journal 7(1): 1272-1276 .'),(4306,'117','Mapping Genomic Regions Controlling Heavy Metals in Barley under Nickel Stress','Farshid Golshani and Barat Ali Fakheri','201 FARSHID GOLSHANI.pdf','',1,'In order to map genomic regions controlling traits related to uptake of heavy elements in the Steptoe/Morex doubled haploid lines of barley with their parents under nickel stress and non stress conditions, an experiment was conducted, at the Institute of Agricultural biotechnology (Biocenter), University of Zabol, in two randomized complete block design with two replications, in 2014. Heavy metals absorption traits, including Root\'s Ni, Shoot\'s Ni, Root\'s Ni/Shoot\'s Ni, Root\'s Zn/Shoot\'s Zn, Root\'s Cu/Shoot\'s Cu, Root\'s Mn/Shoot\'s Mn and Root\'s Fe/Shoot\'s Fe ratios were measured. QTL analysis was carried out using genetic linkage map derived from 327 molecular marker of RFLP and QTL cartographer 2.5 software with composite interval mapping method. Analysis of variance showed significant difference between the lines for all the studied traits in nickel stress and non stress conditions. The maximum correlation in non stress and stress conditions were observed between Root\'s Ni/Shoot\'s Ni','Barley, Heavy metals, Mapping, Nickel stress, QTL ','This research is the first report of QTL analysis related to traits of heavy elements uptake in the Steptoe/Morex doubled haploid lines in hydroponic conditions under nickel stress. In this study, 20 QTLs for traits related to uptake of heavy elements were examined and identified in which the mapped QTLs did not possess required stability in two studied conditions.','The heavy metals as a result of human being activities such as mining, smelting and galvanizing, energy and fuel production, extreme agriculture, sludge wastes and military operations have a significant role in environmental pollution (Nedelkoska and Doran, 2000). Since the beginning of the industrial revolution, the biosphere heavy metals levels are increasingly growing and toxicity of the heavy metals and environmental pollutions resulting from them cause damage to the agricultural lands (Gisbert et al., 2003). These metals create risks for primary and secondary consumers and ultimately human beings. Nickel is one of the chemical elements that exist in various forms in the environment (rivers, lakes, oceans, soil, air and drinking water, as well as the bodies of plants and animals). Soil and sediments, are the major source of Nickel (Smialowicz et al., 1984). Nickel as a heavy metal plays an important role in plants. This element does not have toxic effect on the plant at low concent','Farshid Golshani and Barat Ali Fakheri (2015). Mapping Genomic Regions Controlling Heavy Metals in Barley under Nickel Stress .Biological Forum â€“ An International Journal 7(1): 1277-1289.'),(4307,'117','The effect of 8 Weeks of Chosen Aerobic Exercise on upper Extremity Lymphedema after Mastectomy in Women with Breast Cancer','Sanaz Shiravi, Saleheh Noor Nematollahi, Seyyed Mahmoud Hejazi and Mojgan Nadrzadh','202 SANAZ SHIRAVI.pdf','',1,'Background and purpose: One of the most common side effects in breast cancer treatment is the same side upper extremity lymphedema. Secondary lymphedema is a chronic disease which leads to low function of the limb and loss of beauty. The purpose of the current research is to study the effect of 8 weeks of aerobic exercise on the size of lymphedema in patients suffering upper extremity secondary lymphedema after breast cancer treatments. 30 female patients affected by upper extremity secondary lymphedema after breast cancer treatments were divided into two groups of control group (15) and experimental group (15) with the introduction of the surgeon and cancer specialists based on inclusion and exclusion criteria. The experimental group participated in 8 weeks of exercise held three sessions a week, including a 10 minute warm- up and stretching, 20 minutes of cycling on a bicycle ergo meter with an intensity of 55 to 70 percent target heart beat and then cooling down by stretching. Find','breast cancer, lymphedema, aerobic exercise, lymphedema size','According to the findings of the present research, it can be stated that aerobic sports activities have a significant effect on secondary lymphedema after breast cancer surgery. Based on the outcomes of this study and comparing it with other researches, it seems that observed sports activities have positive effects on some side effects caused by breast cancer treatments.','Breast cancer is a disease in which malignant cells stemmed from breast tissue multiply irregularly and increasingly, without raising any defensive reaction by the immune system. It is one of the most prominent and most common diseases of women and one of the main causes of death among women aged 35 to 55 (Guarneri and Conte 2004). Findings show that this disorder is one of the most prevalent types of cancer among Iranian women (Harirchi et al., 2004). The usual treatment of breast cancer is surgery in the form of partial mastectomy with or without removing Axillar lymph nodes or radical mastectomy axillary lymphatic dissection (Maunsell et al., 1993). Extensive achievements in breast cancer led to increased survival of these patients. However, most of these treatments have several side effects and are followed with numerous negative consequences which lead to patients\' decreased quality of life [17]. Right hand inflammation is a potential problem related to lymph node removal after ','Sanaz Shiravi, Saleheh Noor Nematollahi, Seyyed Mahmoud Hejazi and Mojgan Nadrzadh (2015). The effect of 8 Weeks of Chosen Aerobic Exercise on upper Extremity Lymphedema after Mastectomy in Women with Breast Cancer. Biological Forum â€“ An International J'),(4308,'117','The Effect of Eight-week Yoga Exercise on Balance and Gait in Girls with Intellectual Disability','Siahyan Parisa, Sokhanguei Yahya and Saboonchi Reza','203 SOKHANGUEI YAHYA.pdf','',1,'Scientific evidence suggests that the individuals with intellectual disability are less physically active compared with healthy subjects. The former may be at risk of physical and motor disabilities. the present study aimed to evaluate the effect of eight-week yoga exercise on balance and gait of girls with intellectual disability. This was a quasi-experimental study with pre-test and post-test. For this purpose, 30 mentally retarded girls were randomly divided into experimental and control groups. The experimental group experienced yoga exercise with respect to the training program presented in this study. The subjects participated in eight weeks of training, three sessions per week and each session lasted for an hour with ten replications for each exercise. Stork test was used to assess static balance, the test of getting up and walking was used to assess dynamic balance. The number of steps per minute was calculated in order to assess gait. Kolmogorov Smirnov test and analysis of co','intellectual disability, yoga, static balance, dynamic balance, walking','Deficiency or excess of flexibility affect stiffness and instability of moving organs and maintaining proper posture (Schieppati et al., 1994, Woollacott et al., 1986, Melzer et al., 2000, Wipple et al., 1987). Weak or poor posture, poor relative arrangement of different body parts in relation to each other increase stress on the body support structures and reduce function of balance on support (Kendall et al., 2005). Finally, these changes will affect the ability of people to undertake their tasks and affect physical efficiency (Houglum, 2000). Yoga coordinates various human body systems and engage body and mind in the exercises in order to increase strength and endurance of all organs and target the deepest part of the body Thereby, yoga can improve balance. The findings revealed that yoga exercises affect static balance in girls with intellectual disability. \r\nThese findings are not consistent with those obtained by This difference is due to type of exercise and age of the subjec','Most research in relation to the effect of physical activity on physical fitness and motor abilities was conducted on healthy subjects and physically disabled individuals were less considered in this field (Lapier et al., 1997). Therefore, it is necessary to bestow physically healthy bodies to physically disabled individuals for daily activities by applying proper and timely exercise and strengthening physical forces and enhancing dynamic abilities. The individuals with intellectual disability are weak in terms of sensory - motor capacities, physical awareness, static and dynamic balance and coordination between general and delicate movements. The children with intellectual disability react slower to stimuli than normal children (Attix and Welsh Bohmer 2006, Woollacott, 2000). Therefore, participation in sports activities helps to improve physical, mental and social states. Intellectual disability is a widespread disorder and chronic disease throughout life. The factors underlying th','Siahyan Parisa, Sokhanguei Yahya and Saboonchi Reza (2015). The Effect of Eight-week Yoga Exercise on Balance and Gait in Girls with Intellectual Disability .Biological Forum â€“ An International Journal 7(1): 1295-1300 .'),(4309,'117','A Comparative Study on the Quality of Life among Veteran Students in Physical Education and Other Fields of Study','Behrooz Asgarinezhad, Saeid Sedaghati and Mehdi Kohandel','204 SAEID SEDAGHATI.pdf','',1,'This study attempts to compare the quality of life among veteran students in physical education and other fields of study at the Islamic Azad University, Islamshahr Branch. The statistical population comprises a group of veteran students studying at the Islamic Azad University, Islamshahr Branch. A total of 330 subjects were selected as sample based on Morgan\'s Table. For measuring the quality of life, the Ivans and Coup\'s quality of life questionnaire was employed. The independent t-test was employed to compare the two groups in terms of quality of life. The findings suggested that there is a difference between the veteran students in physical education and other fields of study in terms of quality of life, altruistic behavior and social relations (01/0 = Î±). However, there was no significant difference observed between several other factors such as physical environmental, personal development, job satisfaction and innovative behavior.','Quality of life, Veterans, Physical education students','There was a difference between veteran students in physical education and those from other fields of study in terms of mean quality of life and two factors including social relations and altruistic behavior at significance level of 0.01, while there was no such \r\n\r\n\r\ndifference observed in case of other factors. The mean quality of life among veteran students in physical education was 2.38, while it was 12.35 among students from other fields of study, which suggested the quality of life was better for veteran physical education students. \r\n \r\n Asgarinezhad, Sedaghati and Kohandel 1304\r\n \r\nThe results were consistent with those obtained by Ramezaninejad (2010) [7], Azkia (2010), Patel (2012), Karegarfard (2011) and Elavsky & et al. (2005). The results of those researches suggest that physical activity and exercise plays a dramatic role in improvement of individual quality of','Quality of life refers to overall health of individuals, people around them and the conditions provided by a society. It also involves the intrinsic reaction of individuals to their environment. The structural conditions of a society, however, influence an individual\'s quality of life when it dominates for a long time. Quality of life has been discussed over the recent years concerning how people think, what they wish, and what they need. The definition people associate with their living environment becomes crucial when they have information about the status quo, values, expectations and aspirations (Hardman and Morris 1998). \r\nQuality of life has been defined as perception of an individual or group regarding the fulfillment of their needs and the opportunities to attain wishes and aspirations. Quality of life is an inherent multidimensional factor combined by cognitive and emotional (Anand and Arora 2009). Human body resembles a machine in need of care so as to best carry out vital ','Behrooz Asgarinezhad, Saeid Sedaghati and Mehdi Kohandel (2015). A Comparative Study on the Quality of Life among Veteran Students in Physical Education and Other Fields of Study. Biological Forum â€“ An International Journal 7(1): 1301-1305.'),(4310,'117','The effect of Resistance Training on level of Ghrelin Hormone in Overweight Females','Kamyabnia Masoomeh, Soheily Shahram, Shakeri Nader and Davoodzadeh Sakineh','205 MASOOMEH KAMYABNIA.pdf','',1,'Obesity is associated with adverse changes in metabolic and cardiovascular risk factors, including high blood pressure, dyslipidemia, and insulin resistance, thereby leading to an increased risk of morbidity and mortality from cardiovascular disease and type 2 diabetes. Ghrelin had been noted to food intake, glucose, and lipid metabolism, as well as influencing cardiovascular functions. The present study is to determine the effect of resistance training on Ghrelin in overweight females. Twenty overweight females subject (BMIâ‰¥25) were randomly assigned to two groups (resistance training and control). The experimental training programs were performed three days a week for 12 weeks at a definite intensity and distance. Before and after 12 weeks intervention, Ghrelin, weight and body composition was measured for all subjects. Using independent T-test, the results showed that resistance training had significant effect on Ghrelin, body weight and fat percentage (pâ‰¤0.05). Our study findin','Resistance Training, Ghrelin, Overweight Women','The findings of this research show that resistance training leads to weight loss reduced body fat and increased Ghrelin at the same time. The results of the present study showed that exercise may cause a negative energy balance in the body of overweight women and in response to energy shortage, ghrelin is secreted to stimulate food intake behavior, supply lost sources of energy and restore the energy balance. This increase of ghrelin can stop the catabolic processes after exercise and probably cause an overcompensation of glycogen. The result of this information in total confirms the depletion of energy reserves and increased ghrelin theory. ','World Health Organization (WHO) reports that overweight and obesity is the fifth leading cause for death globally, and third in the high-income countries (WHO (2004). Body weight is regulated by long term and short term energy balance signals. Energy homeostasis is controlled by peripheral signals from adipose tissue, the pancreas and the gastrointestinal tract. These signals influence circuits in the hypothalamus and brain stem to produce positive and negative effects on the energy balance (Mager, 2008). Researchers have recently discovered hormones that regulate energy homeostasis and are involved in the regulation of body weight. Some of these hormones are ghrelin, adiponectin, leptin, obestatin, and resistin (Kojima and Kangawa 2005).\r\nGhrelin is a growth hormone-releasing peptide secreted by the stomach with multiple biological functions, including food intake, glucose, and lipid metabolism, as well as influencing cardiovascular function (Hosoda et al., 2002, Kola et al. 2005,','Kamyabnia Masoomeh, Soheily Shahram, Shakeri Nader and Davoodzadeh Sakineh (2015). The effect of Resistance Training on level of Ghrelin Hormone in Overweight Females .Biological Forum â€“ An International Journal 7(1): 1306-1310.'),(4311,'117','Molecular Analysis of Khalkhali Goat Population based on cytB region of Mitochondrial DNA','Behzad Sepehri and Hamid Reza Seyedabadi','206 HAMID REZA SEYEDABADI.pdf','',1,'Native goats of importance in the economy of rural households are also important as genetic reserves that account for the reserving genetic diversity in native goat breeds of Iran because of the little population size is necessary for breeding goals and increasing their production. The first step is determination of genetic diversity in existing populations. Among the genetic markers, mtDNA sequencing is one of the most useful and common methods employed for inferring phylogenetic relationship between close related species and population and conservation of species. The object this study was carried out for determination of the mitochondrial cytB sequence in Khalkhali native goat in Iran. For this study blood samples were taken randomly from 20 goats. After extracting DNA, cytB region of mtDNA was amplified with specific primers using PCR and after purification was sequenced. The phylogenic tree was drawn with the consensus sequence of other similar sequences of different chicken breed','mtDNA, DNA sequencing, cytB, phylogeny, Khalkhali native goat','Native goats of importance in the economy of rural households are also important as genetic reserves that account for the reserving genetic diversity in native goat breeds of Iran because of the little population size is necessary for breeding goals and increasing their production. The first step is determination of genetic diversity in existing populations. Among the genetic markers, mtDNA sequencing is one of the most useful and common methods employed for inferring phylogenetic relationship between close related species and population and conservation of species. The object this study was carried out for determination of the mitochondrial cytB sequence in Khalkhali native goat in Iran. For this study blood samples were taken randomly from 20 goats. After extracting DNA, cytB region of mtDNA was amplified with specific primers using PCR and after purification was sequenced. The phylogenic tree was drawn with the consensus sequence of other similar sequences of different chicken breed','The goat is the earliest ruminant to have been domesticated (Mason, 1984). The domestic goat Capra hircus is one of the most important livestock species in the world for providing good animal production even under harsh environmental conditions. Recently, molecular studies of goats based on mitochondrial DNA (mtDNA) sequences have been carried out to investigate the origin and phylogeny of goats (Luikart et al. 2001; Mannen et al. 2001; Mannen 2004; Naderi et al. 2007). Mitochondrial DNA is very useful for its multiple presences in cells. The most of animal mtDNA is coding 37 genes (Avise, 1994). One of them is gene for cytochrome b (CytB). Cytochrome b is a component of respiratory chain complex III (Howell, 1989, ESposti et al, 1993). Length of CytB gene is 1140 bp and has some stable sequences which were used for suggestion of universal primers and some variable sequences used for animal identification. The Khalkh','Behzad Sepehri and Hamid Reza Seyedabadi (2015). Molecular Analysis of Khalkhali Goat Population based on cytB region of Mitochondrial DNA .Biological Forum â€“ An International Journal 7(1): 1311-1316.'),(4312,'117','The Effect of Ascorbic Acid and Glycerol on Quality of Frozen Barbari Bread','Zahra Sheikholeslami, Mahdi Karimi and Toktam Hejrani','207 ZAHRA SHEIKHOLESLAMI.pdf','',1,'To improve the quality and obtain a long shelf life of bread, in this study the effect of part baked technology and freezing storage and glycerol and ascorbic acid in Barbari bread were investigated. Glycerol and ascorbic acid were added to the Barbari bread formulation at different levels (0, 0.5, 1% for glycerol and 0, 75, 100 ppm for ascorbic acid) and their effects on the rheological and quality of breads were evaluated. Adding 0.5% glycerol and 150 ppm ascorbic acid to Barbari bread decreased the firmness of breads and increased the specific volume, porosity and sensory properties during part baked and freezing storage.','Ascorbic acid, Barbari bread, Glycerol, Freezing storage, Part baked','In this paper, the effects of ascorbic acid and glycerol on quality and rheology of part baked frozen Barbari bread were evaluated. The frozen storage has significant effects on the specific volume, porosity, crumb hardness and sensory properties. The presence of ascorbic acid at 150ppm interactive with glycerol at 0.5% increased the specific volume, porosity and sensory properties and decreased crumb hardness of the Barbari bread during frozen storage, removing the negative effects of that process conditions. ','In recent years, many researches have been done to improve the quality and variety of bread formulations, and the results are due to achieve various formulas and techniques in the preparation and processing of dough and bread. The aim of this research was to improve the quality of bread and obtain a new method for optimizing the baking technology, shelf life and is the nutritional value of bread. Considering to increased demand and need for fresh bread and high quality production, new methods such as freezing, optimal packaging application and types of additives (hydrocolloids, emulsifiers and enzymes in bread formula was suggested (Barcenas and Rosell, 2007; Ribotta et al., 2008).\r\nThe part baked technology is a method of bread production so that formed gluten network, without reaching the coloring reactions of the crust and frozen for to retard staling and to extend shelf life of bread then in the point of consume full baked (Vulicevic et al., 2004; Barcenas and Rosell, 2006, 2007). ','Zahra Sheikholeslami, Mahdi Karimi and Toktam Hejrani (2015). The Effect of Ascorbic Acid and Glycerol on Quality of Frozen Barbari Bread .Biological Forum â€“ An International Journal 7(1): 1317-1321.'),(4313,'117','Effect of Betaine Hydrochloride in Diet on De novo Lipogenesis in Liver of Broiler','Nima Mosavat, Mohammad Chamani, Farhad Foroudi and Ali Asghar Sadeghi','208 NIMA MOSAVAT @ NEIMANIMA.pdf','',1,'This study was conducted to investigate the effects of dietary betaine supplementation on de novo lipogenesis in liver of broiler. This study included 160 broilers (Ross 308) conducted in four treatments and four replicates. Each replicate consisted of 10 chicks in a completely randomized design. The diets consisted of the control treatment in which did not use the betaine supplementation. Treatments of the second, third and fourth were containing 0.05, 0.08 and 0.11% betaine hydrochloride, respectively. The results showed that addition of betaine to the diet, tends to reduce the activities of enzymes ACC and FAS, although there was no significant difference (P>0.05). These findings suggest that ACC and FAS activities in broiler, is less responsive to betaine supplementation. So it seems that more research needs to be conducted, taking into account all the factors affecting enzyme activity of FAS and ACC.','Betaine hydrochloride, De novo lipogenesis, Liver, Broiler. ','This study was conducted to investigate the effects of dietary betaine supplementation on de novo lipogenesis in liver of broiler. This study included 160 broilers (Ross 308) conducted in four treatments and four replicates. Each replicate consisted of 10 chicks in a completely randomized design. The diets consisted of the control treatment in which did not use the betaine supplementation. Treatments of the second, third and fourth were containing 0.05, 0.08 and 0.11% betaine hydrochloride, respectively. The results showed that addition of betaine to the diet, tends to reduce the activities of enzymes ACC and FAS, although there was no significant difference (P>0.05). These findings suggest that ACC and FAS activities in broiler, is less responsive to betaine supplementation. So it seems that more research needs to be conducted, taking into account all the factors affecting enzyme activity of FAS and ACC.','Betaine is tri-methylated derivative of glycine, which found in many organisms. It acts in the gastrointestinal tract as an osmoprotective agent and as a methyl group donor in metabolic pathways. Since betaine acts as a methyl group donor, it can partially replace methionine and choline in the diet (Eklund et al. 2005). Betaine participates in lipid metabolism and prevents excessive fat accumulation in the liver (Craig 2004; Eklund et al. 2005; Simon 1999). In general, the storage of fat in body is caused by the balance between dietary fat absorption, biosynthesis of fatty acids and lipid catabolism through Î²-oxidation. So, if we assume the same amount of fat absorbed from the diet, the less amount of body\'s fat may be related to increased catabolism or decreased interior synthesis of fatty acids, or both (Huang et al. 2008). Effects of betaine in reducing the accumulation of fat have been studied in poultry (Esteve-Garcia and Mack 2000, McDevitt et al. 2000, Saunderson and Mackinlay ','Nima Mosavat, Mohammad Chamani, Farhad Foroudi and Ali Asghar Sadeghi (2015). Effect of Betaine Hydrochloride in Diet on De novo Lipogenesis in Liver of Broiler .Biological Forum â€“ An International Journal 7(1): 1322-1326.'),(4314,'117','Effect of Zinc Nano-chelate Foliar and Soil Application and Different Growth stages on Physiological Performance of Maize (Zea mays L.)','Reza Mosanna and Ebrahim Khalilvand Behrozyar','209 EBRAHIM KHALILVAND BEHROZYAR.pdf','',1,'In order to investigate the effect of zinc nano-chelate foliar and soil application on physiological performance of maize (Zea mays L.), an experiment was conducted in the factorial form based on completely randomized block design with three replications during growing seasons of 2013-2014. Treatments were nano-chalate zinc application in four levels: a1: soil application, a2: foliar application, a3: soil application + foliar application, a4: control and different growth stage in three levels contain b1:8-10-leaves stage, b2: taselling and b3: SA grain filling stage. The analysis of variance showed significant effect of Zn nano-chalate application and different growth stage on Chl. a, Chl. b content and total Chl. a + Chl. b and biomass dry weight. Also, effect of Zn-chalate application on ear weight was significant (p<0.01). The detailed results of the study showed that Zn nano-chalate soil application+ foliar application at filling stage had more 72%, 77% and 75 % Chl. a, Chl. b cont','foliar application, nano-chalate zinc, maize, soil application','It could be concluded that, use of nano-chalate zinc application had positive effect on photosynthesis pigments. Based on the results, Zn nano-chalate soil application+ foliar application at taselling stage had the highest chlorophyll a, b and total chlorophyll a + b. Also, ear weight was found by zinc nano-chalate foliar application. Soil application+ foliar application of Zn-\r\n\r\nnano chalate treatment at taselling stage had the highest biomass dry weight. \r\n','In general zinc have main role in synthesis of proteins, enzyme activating, oxidation and revival reactions and metabolism of carbohydrates (Mousavi, 2011). In plants, zinc plays a key role as a structural constituent or regulatory co-factor of a wide range of different enzymes and proteins in many important biochemical pathways and these are mainly concerned with: carbohydrate metabolism, both in photosynthesis and in the conversion of sugars to starch, protein metabolism, auxin (growth regulator) metabolism, pollen formation, the maintenance of the integrity of biological membranes, the resistance to infection by certain pathogens (Alloway, 2008; Xi-Wen et al., 2011). Recently, Nanoparticles have received considerable attention due to their increased uptake and high rate of penetration in plants. Nanomaterials are classified as materials with at least one dimension less than 100 nm (Wiesner et al., 2006). Nonmaterial could to be applied in designing more soluble and diffusible source','Reza Mosanna and Ebrahim Khalilvand Behrozyar (2015). Effect of Zinc Nano-chelate Foliar and Soil Application and Different Growth stages on Physiological Performance of Maize (Zea mays L.) .Biological Forum â€“ An International Journal 7(1): 1327-1330.'),(4315,'117','Incidence of Histopathological and Molecular Identification of Some Causative Agent of Streptococcosis Isolated from Farmed Rainbow Trout (Oncorhynchus mykiss) in Mazandaran Province, Iran','A. Haghighi Khiabanian Asl, F. Yadollahi, B. Kazemi, M. Afsharnasab, V. Razavilar, M. Bandehpour, M. Karimi and SH. Gheflat','210 F. YADOLLAHI @ DR KIYAN.pdf','',1,'Over the past few years, the syndrome of streptococcosis has been associated with outbreaks in rainbow trout (Oncorhynchus mykiss) and caused important economic losses in the aquaculture industry in Iran especially in Mazandaran province. The main purpose of this work was molecular identification of some causative agents of streptococcosis in rainbow trout with emphasis histopathological and molecular identification of some causative agent of streptococcusis isolated from farmed rainbow trout (Oncorhynchus mykiss) in Mazandaran province on the north of Iran. The suspicious samples were also provided from a five contaminated Rainbow Trout farm in Mazandaran Province. Histopathological finding in kidney represent Depletation of hemopoitic tissue, acute necrotizing glomerulonephritis and Nectoric tubular epithelia, mononuclear cell infiltration, hemorrhage and tubular hyaline degenerations. Histopathological finding in spleen represent hemorrhagic foci and necrotic area, disarrangement ce','-','Over the past few years, the syndrome of streptococcosis has been associated with outbreaks in rainbow trout (Oncorhynchus mykiss) and caused important economic losses in the aquaculture industry in Iran especially in Mazandaran province. The main purpose of this work was molecular identification of some causative agents of streptococcosis in rainbow trout with emphasis histopathological and molecular identification of some causative agent of streptococcusis isolated from farmed rainbow trout (Oncorhynchus mykiss) in Mazandaran province on the north of Iran. The suspicious samples were also provided from a five contaminated Rainbow Trout farm in Mazandaran Province. Histopathological finding in kidney represent Depletation of hemopoitic tissue, acute necrotizing glomerulonephritis and Nectoric tubular epithelia, mononuclear cell infiltration, hemorrhage and tubular hyaline degenerations. Histopathological finding in spleen represent hemorrhagic foci and necrotic area, disarrangement ce','One of the most important fish diseases which have caused outbreak in rainbow trout farm in Iran is streptococcusis (Sepahdari et al., 2012). Infection by streptococcosis is one of the most significant bacterial disease in farmed salmonid fishes. The important pathogenic species of streptococcal infections are Streptococcus parauberis, Streptococcus iniae, Streptococcus difficilis, Lactococcus garvieae, Lactococcus piscium, Vagococcus salmoninarum and Carnobacterium piscicola (Bercovier et al., 1997; Eldar et al., 1997). \r\nInfectious diseases of cultured fish are among the most considerable constraints on the expansion of aquaculture and the realization of its foil potential (Plumb, 1999; Woo and Bruno, 1999; Klesius et al., 2000). Streptococcus iniae was first described as a pathogen of fish in 1994, when it was cultured from diseased tilapines Oreochromis spp (Eldar et al., 1994, 1995). In addition to bacteria in the genus streptococcus, there are several other closely related groups','A. Haghighi Khiabanian Asl, F. Yadollahi, B. Kazemi, M. Afsharnasab, V. Razavilar, M. Bandehpour, M. Karimi and SH. Gheflat (2015). Incidence of Histopathological and Molecular Identification of Some Causative Agent of Streptococcosis Isolated from Farm'),(4316,'117','The Response of Drought Stressed Lemon Balm (Melissa officinalis L.) to Vermicompost and PGPR','Abolfazl Kazemi Nasab, Mehrdad Yarnia, Mohammad Hossein Lebaschy,\r\n Bahram Mirshekari and Farhad Rejali\r\n','211 MEHRDAD YARNIA.pdf','',1,'In this research, effect of vermicompost and PGPR of Physiological traits on lemon balm under experimental drought stress was investigated as the split- split plot in a randomized complete block design with three replications. Treatments included irrigation (normal and drought irrigation), vermicompost fertilizer (consuming 0, 5 and 10 t/ha) and PGPR (Pseudomonas fluorescent, Azotobacter + Azospirillum, Azotobacter + Azospirillum + Pseudomonas and no fertilizer). Traits including oil yield, oil percentage, total chlorophyll content, electrical conductivity, relative water content and proline were evaluated. Analysis of variance showed that the effect of irrigation on all traits was significant at the statistical probability level of 1 %. Vermicompost fertilizer effect on oil percentage, total chlorophyll and relative water content was significant at the level of 1% and its effect on essential oil yield and Electrical conductivity was significant at the level of 5%. Effect of bio-fertil','Vermicompost, PGPR, Drought Stress, Lemon Balm','The results of the mean comparison of irrigation effect on essential oil yield showed that normal irrigation and drought with the means of 7.64 and 6.6 kilogram per hectare had the highest and the lowest oil yield, respectively.\r\nThe mean comparison results of biological fertilizer effects on proline showed that Azotobacter Bacteria + Azospirillum brasilense and P. fluorescent bacteria with the means of 13.91 and 11.93 micrograms per gram dry weight had the highest and the lowest proline, respectively. P. fluorescent bacteria had 16.59% decreases Azotobacter Bacteria + Azospirillum.\r\nThe mean comparison results of biologic fertilizer effect on the mentioned trait showed that P. fluorescent bacteria and the control treatment with the means of 75.9 % and 72.7 % had the highest and the lowest relative water content, respectively. P. fluorescent bacteria had 4.4% increases in comparison with control treatment.\r\nThe mean comparison results of irrigation effect on essential oil percentage sh','Drought stress is especially important in countries where crop agriculture is essentially rain-fed (Ludlow and Muchow, 1990). Drought stress causes an increase in solute concentration in the environment, leading to an osmotic flow of water out of plant cells. This in turn causes the solute concentration inside plant cells to increase, thus lowering water potential and disrupting membranes along with essential processes like photosynthesis. Lemon balm is a perennial plant with the height of 30 to 80 cm, its leaves are oval and heart-shaped, serrated, covered with fluff, and the leaf surface is uneven and has multiple nodules including secretory fluff, and its fruit is tetraakene and brown (Douglas, 1993). Drought is the most common abiotic environmental stress limited the production at approximately 25 % of the world agricultural land. Yield losses include more than two- thirds of the total damage of abiotic stresses due to drought, salinity and other factors (Bohnert and Bressan, 2001)','Abolfazl Kazemi Nasab, Mehrdad Yarnia, Mohammad Hossein Lebaschy, Bahram Mirshekari and Farhad Rejali (2015). The Response of Drought Stressed Lemon Balm (Melissa officinalis L.) to Vermicompost and PGPR . Biological Forum â€“ An International Journal '),(4317,'117','Economic Assessment of Environmental Damages Caused by Drying up of Hamoon Wetland in Sistan Zone','Javad Shahraki and Majid Dahmardeh','212 MAJID DAHMARDEH.pdf','',1,'Sistan is characterized by questionnaire was designed in order to gather detailed information about valued features of the Hamoon wetland, and 248 questionnaires were filled. Both male and female respondents were in three age groups (25<, 25-45, 45>).The data was descriptively analyzed with SPSS and Excel spread sheet in order to analyze the empirical parts of the second and third questions. The obtained results indicated that in best situation, the Hamoon wetland scenario may provide job opportunity for 40.8 % of Sistan households, out of which nearly 8.6% of job opportunities are involved in bird catching, whereas 4.1% are busyin reed harvesting and mat weaving. After each sandstorm, approximately 972 houses are covered by severe sandstorm. Assuming that the residents excavate and repair their houses only once a year after this severe windy season in October, the cost of excavation and reparation is estimated 10,692,000,000 Rials per year, mainly due to sandstorms exerted on people a','Hamoon Wetland (HW), Economic Assessment (EA), Damages, Health, Sistan','Sistan is characterized by questionnaire was designed in order to gather detailed information about valued features of the Hamoon wetland, and 248 questionnaires were filled. Both male and female respondents were in three age groups (25<, 25-45, 45>).The data was descriptively analyzed with SPSS and Excel spread sheet in order to analyze the empirical parts of the second and third questions. The obtained results indicated that in best situation, the Hamoon wetland scenario may provide job opportunity for 40.8 % of Sistan households, out of which nearly 8.6% of job opportunities are involved in bird catching, whereas 4.1% are busyin reed harvesting and mat weaving. After each sandstorm, approximately 972 houses are covered by severe sandstorm. Assuming that the residents excavate and repair their houses only once a year after this severe windy season in October, the cost of excavation and reparation is estimated 10,692,000,000 Rials per year, mainly due to sandstorms exerted on people a','Sistan is a densely populated enclave in the most scarcely populated area in SE of Iran. It is known for its severe socio-economic conditions such as poverty, unemployment, immigration to other neighboring regions, high levels of illegal activities and health problems and loss of natural resources. The water resources are scarce in the region. The main water resource is the Hirmand River that flows from Afghanistan into Iran and finally runs into Hamoon Lake. However, during the last decade, its inflows into Iran have decreased significantly. High rates of \r\nevaporation and inefficient water usages have also reduced the sescarce resources. This condition was regarded in this case study of Hamoon. The valuable features of the Hamoon wetland, categorized as regulation functions, attributes, goods and human direct and indirect uses, were defined based on the gathered empirical data. It was concluded that the Hamoon wetland is able to provide many valuable features for the Sistan communit','Javad Shahraki and Majid Dahmardeh (2015). Economic Assessment of Environmental Damages Caused by Drying up of Hamoon Wetland in Sistan Zone . Biological Forum â€“ An International Journal 7(1): 1345-1352.'),(4318,'117','Favorable Characteristics of Professionals in Development of Sustainable Water Resources Management for Date Palm Growers in Khuzestan Province','Liza Nabhani, Ahmad Reza Ommani and Azadeh N. Noorivandi','213 AHMAD REZA OMMANI.pdf','',1,'Agriculture by using more than 70 percent of all water resources is the predominant consumer of water that has played a major role in feeding people. The date palm is considered as one of the most important horticultural crops in Khuzestan province. Due to limited water resources quality and quantity, it is necessary to reform strategies and technologies to increase water use efficiency. To obtain this goal, agricultural extension systems as a training and notification mechanism can play a key role to timely notification and enhance managerial ability of Date growers. Nowadays, it is certain that agricultural extension will be effective, when it be operating within a system. The main elements of extension system are professionals of extension system, and their Characteristics play a key role for operating the extension system. The population of experts in this study are included all agricultural extension experts (N=150) of agricultural-Jihad Organization of Khuzestan Province. A surve','Favorable Characteristics of Professionals, Agricultural extension system, Water Resources Management, Date palm growers ','For receiving favorability in water resources management, extension programs in Khuzestan province of Iran, there is a need for reorientation in professionals characteristics of agricultural extension system and extensionists has a key role to improve it, but current extension system in Iran does not has a sufficient competency for the achievement of water resource management and it needs to shift toward new approaches with new objectives (Ommani and Chizari, 2010, Allahyari, 2008). According to the results of research, professionals characteristics of extension system for supporting of water resources management for date palm growers were categorized into two main characteristics, which have been named Participation Oriented and Specialized and Facilitators as the professionals characteristics.\r\n\r\nAlso, four most important professionals characteristics for supporting of water resource management in favorable conditions according to the experts were: (1) professionals with the ability ','Agriculture is the main source of national income for most developing countries. However, for the developed countries, agriculture contributes a smaller percent age to their national income (Anonymous, 2014). In Iran, like other developing countries, agriculture is one of the most important economic sectors and comprises a considerably high percentage of production and employment (Karbasioun, 2007). The whole land under date cultivation in Iran is estimated about 240000 ha (FAO, 2010) of which over 43000 ha are allotted to Khuzestan province (Statistical letter, 2010). Rural economic activities are related to three major sectors: agriculture, industry, and services (Ommani et al, 2009). \r\nAgricultural extension is the conscious provision of information and communication support to rural users of renewable natural resources. It involves offering advice, helping farmer\'s analyses problems and identifies opportunities, sharing information, supporting group formation and facilitating colle','Liza Nabhani, Ahmad Reza Ommani and Azadeh N. Noorivandi (2015). Favorable Characteristics of Professionals in Development of Sustainable Water Resources Management for Date Palm Growers in Khuzestan Province Biological Forum â€“ An International Journal '),(4319,'117','Growth Habit and Vernalization Requirement in some of Iranian Bread Wheat Cultivars','Seyyed Hamid Reza Ramazani, Mohsen Ebrahimi, Habib Allah Ghazvini, Mohhamad Reza Jalal Kamali and Ali Izadi-Darbandi','214 MOHSEN EBRAHIMI @ SEYYED RAMAZANI.pdf','',1,'To determine the action of vernalization and growth habit variation in cultivars of bread wheat (Triticum aestivum L.), this research was carried out in greenhouse of Agricultural and Natural Resources Research Center of South Khorasan in 2013-2014 growing seasons. The treatments consisted of 40 cultivars of wheat and 5 levels of vernalization periods (0, 15, 30, 45 and 60 days) at ambient temperature in January and conducted with randomized complete block design with two replications. Vernalization fulfillment was determined using the final leaf number method. Fitting formula was used for each genotype. Then Î± and Î² obtained from this fitting used genotypes grouped according to the severity of its response to vernalization was used (using Wards method for cluster analysis with SPSS software). The results showed that Soissons, Zare, C.86.5, Azar2, Gaspared and Gaskogen have a highest leaves with 11 leaves in no-vernalized conditions and divided into separate groups. Roshan, Pishgam, ','Consistency, Final leaf number, Growth habits, Vernalization requirement, Vernalization fulfillment, Wheat','To determine the action of vernalization and growth habit variation in cultivars of bread wheat (Triticum aestivum L.), this research was carried out in greenhouse of Agricultural and Natural Resources Research Center of South Khorasan in 2013-2014 growing seasons. The treatments consisted of 40 cultivars of wheat and 5 levels of vernalization periods (0, 15, 30, 45 and 60 days) at ambient temperature in January and conducted with randomized complete block design with two replications. Vernalization fulfillment was determined using the final leaf number method. Fitting formula was used for each genotype. Then Î± and Î² obtained from this fitting used genotypes grouped according to the severity of its response to vernalization was used (using Wards method for cluster analysis with SPSS software). The results showed that Soissons, Zare, C.86.5, Azar2, Gaspared and Gaskogen have a highest leaves with 11 leaves in no-vernalized conditions and divided into separate groups. Roshan, Pishgam, ','Transition from vegetative to reproductive phase in wheat requires exposure to a cold period, referred as vernalization requirement. The process of vernalization occurs in buds, hence soaked seeds, seedlings, immature seeds forming in mother plant, and even calluses derived from fetal tissue cultures respond to vernalization (Gardner and Barnett, 1990; Whelan and Schaalje, 1992; Cao and Moss, 1991). Factors influencing vernalization include age, cold (temperature) intensity and duration, chilling method, genotype, development phase and growth hormones (Rawson et al., 1998; Ortiz-Ferrara et al., 1998). Effective temperature ranges to meet wheat vernalization requirement are between zero and 18Â°C and temperatures higher than 30Â°C can adversely affect it (Slafer and Whitechurch, 2001; Rosenzweig and Tubiello, 1996). Flowering time in wheat can be described as a function of (1) the number of leaves produced by the main-stem; (2) the rate of leaf appearance (i.e. the inverse of phyllochro','Seyyed Hamid Reza Ramazani, Mohsen Ebrahimi, Habib Allah Ghazvini, Mohhamad Reza Jalal Kamali and Ali Izadi-Darbandi (2015). Growth Habit and Vernalization Requirement in some of Iranian Bread Wheat Cultivars .Biological Forum â€“ An International Journal'),(4320,'117','Using SCAR Molecular Marker to Detect Resistance Genes to Fusarium oxysporum f. sp. Ciceris in Chickpea Cultivars and Lines','Somayeh Farahani, Bahar Morid, Mojdeh Maleki and Siamak Saberi','215 SOMAYEH FARAHANI.pdf','',1,'The occurrence of fusarium wilt disease is reported from 32 countries around the world. It is estimated that this disease results in 10-90% crop yield loss annually. It is difficult to control this disease because of the ability of the pathogen to survive in soil for several years, even without the host. The most effective method for controlling fusarium wilt is the cultivation of resistant chickpea cultivars. In this experiment, SCAR molecular marker was used to detect chickpea genotypes resistant to the disease. The DNA of 42 chickpea genotypes was extracted by CTAB method. After that, polymerase chain reaction was conducted by CS-27 and OPM-20 molecular markers. Results showed that 41 genotypes out of the 42 tested genotypes were sensitive to all five races of the pathogen. The only resistant genotype was Flip 06-152c which was resistant to the five races. Finally, the pathogenesis test confirms all results obtained in the genetic studies.','chickpea fusarium wilt disease, SCAR','The occurrence of fusarium wilt disease is reported from 32 countries around the world. It is estimated that this disease results in 10-90% crop yield loss annually. It is difficult to control this disease because of the ability of the pathogen to survive in soil for several years, even without the host. The most effective method for controlling fusarium wilt is the cultivation of resistant chickpea cultivars. In this experiment, SCAR molecular marker was used to detect chickpea genotypes resistant to the disease. The DNA of 42 chickpea genotypes was extracted by CTAB method. After that, polymerase chain reaction was conducted by CS-27 and OPM-20 molecular markers. Results showed that 41 genotypes out of the 42 tested genotypes were sensitive to all five races of the pathogen. The only resistant genotype was Flip 06-152c which was resistant to the five races. Finally, the pathogenesis test confirms all results obtained in the genetic studies.','Chickpea fusarium wilt is induced by Fusarium oxysporum f. sp. ciceris (Jalali and Chand, 1992; Dubey et al., 2007) and it was reported for the first time from India (Jimenez-Diaz et al., 1992; Singh, 2003). Nowadays, fusarium wilt is reported to infect chickpea fields all around the world including India, Iran, Peru, Syria, Ethiopia, Mexico, Spain, Tunisia, Turkey, the United States and the countries of USSR (Westerland et al., 1974; Trampero-Casas and Jemenez-Diaz, 1985). In Iran, F. lateritium f. ciceris was the first pathogen which was reported to induce fusarium wilt (Manouchehri and Mesri Alamdari, 1966).\r\nStudies indicate that 19% of the chickpea fields in North West of Iran were infested to the disease in 1999 and the severity of this disease was 5-60% (Akem, 1988). The severity of this disease in all over the world is estimated to be 10-90% (Jimenez-Diaz et al., 1989; Singh and Reddy 1991). The epidemics of fusarium wilt significantly damages crop yield and under suitable cond','Somayeh Farahani, Bahar Morid, Mojdeh Maleki and Siamak Saberi (2015). Using SCAR Molecular Marker to Detect Resistance Genes to Fusarium oxysporum f. sp. Ciceris in Chickpea Cultivars and Lines .Biological Forum â€“ An International Journal 7(1): 1369-1'),(4321,'117','Development and Feeding Capacity of Scaeva albomaculata (Macqaurt) (Diptera: Syrphidae) fed with rose aphid, Macrosiphum rosae (Homoptera: Aphididae)','Farzad Jalilian','216 FARZAD JALILIAN.pdf','',1,'Species of the genus Scaeva Fabricius, are predatory syrphids with an important role in the bio-control of aphid pests in different parts of the world. Some biological characteristics and larval feeding rate of hoverfly, Scaeva albomaculata (Macqaurt) were investigated on Macrosiphum rosae (L.) at laboratory conditions. The experiments were carried out in growth chamber at 27 Â± 2ÂºC, 60 Â± 5% RH, and 16 : 8 ( L : D) photoperiod. The egg, 1st, 2nd, 3rd larval instars, pre-pupa, and pupa developmental times were determined as 4.50 Â± 0.42, 2.5 Â± 0.22, 2.66 Â± 0.21, 3.83 Â± 0.37, 1.16 Â± 0.16, 5.50 Â± 0.71 days, respectively. Adult longevity was considerably increased ( 32.75 Â± 2.78 days ) when they were fed with honey solution, while in food free conditions, they were alive only 4.33 Â± 0.88 days. Each female was produced 110.6 Â± 11.77 eggs during oviposition period, 88.50% of these eggs were hatched to first instar larvae. Mean feeding rate of 1st.2nd and 3rd instar larva were 22.5 ','Scaeva albomaculata (L.), Macrosiphum rosae, Biological Control, Hoverflies','Species of the genus Scaeva Fabricius, are predatory syrphids with an important role in the bio-control of aphid pests in different parts of the world. Some biological characteristics and larval feeding rate of hoverfly, Scaeva albomaculata (Macqaurt) were investigated on Macrosiphum rosae (L.) at laboratory conditions. The experiments were carried out in growth chamber at 27 Â± 2ÂºC, 60 Â± 5% RH, and 16 : 8 ( L : D) photoperiod. The egg, 1st, 2nd, 3rd larval instars, pre-pupa, and pupa developmental times were determined as 4.50 Â± 0.42, 2.5 Â± 0.22, 2.66 Â± 0.21, 3.83 Â± 0.37, 1.16 Â± 0.16, 5.50 Â± 0.71 days, respectively. Adult longevity was considerably increased ( 32.75 Â± 2.78 days ) when they were fed with honey solution, while in food free conditions, they were alive only 4.33 Â± 0.88 days. Each female was produced 110.6 Â± 11.77 eggs during oviposition period, 88.50% of these eggs were hatched to first instar larvae. Mean feeding rate of 1st.2nd and 3rd instar larva were 22.5 ','Aphids are an important pest in greenhouses and outdoors and one group of their natural enemies are hoverflies (Diptera, Syrphidae). Macrosiphum rosae is one of the serious pests of rose around world (Gilbert, 1993; Bergh & Short, 2008). It is estimated that their importance as natural enemies is equal to that of parasitoids, pathogenic fungi, ladybirds and lacewings. Only hoverflies of subfamily Syrphinae are aphid predators. Other hoverflies have very diverse larval feeding habits (Helyer et al., 2003). Hoverflies have been used as indicators of agricultural pollution, habitat disturbance and habitat quality (Sommagio, 1999). In recent years, information about European hoverflies has become widely accessible through the development of the Syrph, the Net database (Speight et al., 2004). Many authors have reported that syrphids lay eggs at the beginning of aphid population build-up and they are considered to be effective biological agents of the early aphid population management. (Sole','Farzad Jalilian (2015). Development and Feeding Capacity of Scaeva albomaculata (Macqaurt) (Diptera: Syrphidae) fed with rose aphid, Macrosiphum rosae (Homoptera: Aphididae) '),(4322,'117','Response of Soil Chemical Attributes Under Cattle and Goats Mixed-Species Grazing System in Semi-Arid Botswana','K. Mogotsi, N.F. Monametsi and O.E. Kgosikoma','217 KOBO MOGOTSI.pdf','',1,'The effects of cattle alone (1:0), goats alone (0:1) and different cattle and goats combinations (1:1, 2:1 and 3:1) on soil chemical properties under Mixed Mopane veld paddocks stocked at 12ha/LSU (1 livestock unit, LSU = 450kg) were investigated. Using the piosphere approach, topsoil cores were collected and analyzed at 0, 50, 150, 300 and 500m from water points along 2 randomly-placed transects in each respective treatment. Overall, there was limited uniformity in responses of soil chemical attributes to the different grazing ratios. However, there was a centripetal flow of soil cation exchange capacity, phosphorus, potassium, magnesium and organic carbon as well as pH with increasing distance from water points. It is likely that the conservative stocking rate of 12ha/LSU was not sufficient to induce significant changes in soil chemistry, thus more robust tests can be attempted under a wider range of stocking densities.','Botswana, Colophospermum mopane, mixed-species grazing, piosphere, soil spatial variability, Tswana cattle-goat ratio','Soils under paddocks grazed by cattle alone or goats alone or different combinations of the two livestock species did not show any overall deleterious effects.\r\n \r\n\r\nHowever, there was a centripetal flow of certain nutrients with increasing distance from the permanent water points particularly CEC, P, K, Mg and OC as well as soil pH. The non-grazed paddock had relatively higher P values vis-a-vis grazed paddocks. It is highly likely that the conservative stocking rate of 12ha/LSU used in this study and the duration were not sufficient to induce significant changes in soil chemistry, thus a more robust test can be attempted under a wider range of stocking densities before practical soil fertility management implications are inferred. Livestock herd behaviour under such settings can also be investigated further.\r\n','Utilization of natural rangelands by two or more animal species with different grazing habits may be one of the most biologically and economically viable systems available to producers, especially on landscapes that support heterogeneous plant communities (Anderson et al. 2012). Mixed-species grazing studies over the years involving domesticated animals like cattle, sheep and goats have demonstrated beneficial effects for both quality of forage and animal performance (Boswell and Cranshaw 1978; Donaldson 1979; Collins 1989; Sikosana and Gambiza1993; Abaye et al. 1994; Del Pozo et al.1998; Animut et al. 2005; Celaya et al. 2007; Allred et al. 2012; Monametsi et al. 2012) and consequently suggests a â€˜win-winâ€™ solution for farmers and conservationists alike (Fraser et al. 2014).\r\nHowever, the focus of such studies has largely neglected the effect of mixed-species grazing on soil properties, despite the recognized importance of incorporating soil information into rangeland management p','K. Mogotsi, N.F. Monametsi and O.E. Kgosikoma (2015). Response of Soil Chemical Attributes Under Cattle and Goats Mixed-Species Grazing System in Semi-Arid Botswana .Biological Forum â€“ An International Journal 7(1): 1382-1388. '),(4323,'117','Investigation of the Effects of the Pre-Treatment of Seed with Ascorbic Acid on Some Physiological and Biochemical characteristics of Wheat Seedlings under Salinity Stress Conditions','Zana Amini Nezho, Soran Sharafi and Saman Yazdanseta','218 SORAN SHARAFI-2.pdf','',1,'In order to investigate the effect of pre-treatment of seeds with ascorbic acid on the a, b and a+b chlorophyll content, proline and wet weight of wheat plumule (Triticum aestivum L.) under salinity stress, a study of Pishgam cultivar was performed three replication with a factorial experiment in the form of a completely randomized design. An acid ascorbic factor in three concentrations of 0, 50 and 100 mM and salinity in three levels of 0, 75 and 150 mM was used in crop plants in the laboratory of Islamic Azad University, Mahabad Branch. The results indicated that by increasing the ascorbic acid up to 100 mM, a, b and a+b chlorophyll content was significantly increased. Ascorbic acid treatment in concentrations of 50 and 100 mM moderated the decrease of wheat a, b and a+b chlorophyll content in salinity stress conditions. By increasing the concentration of ascorbic acid up to 100 mM, the proline content was significantly decreased. At the same time, the increase of saline concentratio','Salinity, Proline, Chlorophyll, Ascorbic Acid','Considering the obtained results, it can be stated that the wheat seeds use some physiological mechanisms such as decreasing chlorophyll and accumulating proline amino acids in order to handle salinity stress, and as a result this leads to a decrease in the wet weight or biomass of the wheat. An insufficient increase in the activation of antioxidant enzymes leads to a decrease in the ability of the plant to tolerate the damage caused by salinity stress. In such conditions, ascorbic acid acts as an antioxidant, prevents the increase of activity of the mentioned enzymes, and substitutes for their activity. In addition, ascorbic acid prevents proline increase, and in this condition the assimilation of the plant is applied to increase the biomass, which will finally increase the performance.','One of the most important and critical stages in plant growth is germination, which is seriously limited under salinity stress conditions. Irrigation with inappropriate or saline water is one of the most important factors in salt increase; the soil becomes saline and as a result creates salinity in the plant (Mirmohammadi Meybodi and Ghare Yazi, 2002). Priming is a method that seeks the proper solutions to increase the percentage of seed germination rate and especially to create homogeneous germination and uniformity in the farms (Farooq et al., 2005). The most significant effects of priming include the primary establishment of the plant, seed weight increase and biomass, improving the food quality and water use efficiency, and decreasing the damage caused by pathogens (Afzal et al., 2005). One of the useful effects of priming on the seed and most of the plant is the increase in the germination percentage and rate, improving viability, increasing the germination in lower temperatures, ','Zana Amini Nezho, Soran Sharafi and Saman Yazdanseta (2015). Investigation of the Effects of the Pre-Treatment of Seed with Ascorbic Acid on Some Physiological and Biochemical characteristics of Wheat Seedlings under Salinity Stress Conditions .Biological'),(4324,'117','Biology and Larval Feeding rate of Episyrphus balteatus (Dip.: Syrphidae) on Aphis pomi (Hom.:Aphididae) at Laboratory Conditions','Farzad Jalilian','219 FARZAD JALILIAN-2.pdf','',1,'Biological characteristics and larval feeding rate of hoverfly Episyrphus balteatus De Geer were determined on Aphis pomi De Geer at laboratory conditions. The experiments were carried out in growth chamber at 25Â±2ÂºC, RH 50-60% and a photoperiodism of 16:8 (L:D) h. The incubation period, larval period, pupal period and developmental time of E. balteatus were determined as 4.00, 11.33, 7.20 and 23.50 days, respectively. Adult longevity considerably increased (9.50 days) when fed with honey solution but in non-feeding situation, it lasted for only 3.5 days. There were significant differences (P<0.1) observed in daily and total feeding rate among the first, second and third instar larvae. Each larva of E. balteatus fed on 465.60 aphids during larval period and revealed a high potential for feeding on A. pomi The third instar larvae played an important role in feeding rate, such that 67.69% of total larval feeding was due to this instar level. Per capita daily feeding rate of first, sec','Episyrphus balteatus, Aphis pomi, Biology, Feeding rate','Biological characteristics and larval feeding rate of hoverfly Episyrphus balteatus De Geer were determined on Aphis pomi De Geer at laboratory conditions. The experiments were carried out in growth chamber at 25Â±2ÂºC, RH 50-60% and a photoperiodism of 16:8 (L:D) h. The incubation period, larval period, pupal period and developmental time of E. balteatus were determined as 4.00, 11.33, 7.20 and 23.50 days, respectively. Adult longevity considerably increased (9.50 days) when fed with honey solution but in non-feeding situation, it lasted for only 3.5 days. There were significant differences (P<0.1) observed in daily and total feeding rate among the first, second and third instar larvae. Each larva of E. balteatus fed on 465.60 aphids during larval period and revealed a high potential for feeding on A. pomi The third instar larvae played an important role in feeding rate, such that 67.69% of total larval feeding was due to this instar level. Per capita daily feeding rate of first, sec','Aphids cause curls in leaves, reduced growth of plants and deformations in plant organs by feeding on shoots, leaves, stems, fruits and roots of plants (Eastop, 1966; Dixon, 1977). The green apple aphid, A. pomi is a holocyclic and monoecious aphid species that is widespread in Palaearctic region. It is one of the most important pests in apple orchards with infestation occurring regularly each year both on globally popular and local apple cultivars. The species is especially harmful in nurseries and young orchards and it characteristically re-infests apple trees over the May-June period (van Emden and Harrington, 2007). Insecticides have proved to be the solution to tackle the insect pest problems irrespective of the disadvantages associated with use of these chemicals (Priya and Misra, 2007). The economic aspects and side effects of insecticides on environment are not neglect able (Thanavendan and Jeyarani, 2010). The environment friendly solution of such type of problems is the use o','Farzad Jalilian (2015). Biology and Larval Feeding rate of Episyrphus balteatus (Dip.: Syrphidae) on Aphis pomi (Hom.:Aphididae) at Laboratory Conditions . Biological Forum â€“ An International Journal 7(1): 1395-1399 .'),(4325,'117','Influence of ACPA in the Dorsal Hippocampus on Muscimol state - dependent, learning in the inhibitory Avoidance Task','Bahareh Pakpour, Kobra Jafari and Majid Navaian','220 BAHAREH PAKPOUR.pdf','',1,'Learning and memory are the complicated agents of central nervous system that various regions of brain can be involved in these phenomena, especially regions like hippocamp. Various agents like cannabinoid and GABA can influence learning and memory. In the present study, the effect of cannabinoid receptors agonist, ACPA, on muscimol induced state-dependent memory examined. Cannabinoids cause a wide array of effects in different species. Their effects are mainly produced through cannabinoid receptors; CB1and CB2 subtypes. The CB1 receptors are densely expressed in areas classically involved in learning and memory. In rodents, the CB1 receptor is almost exclusively expressed by GABAergic interneurons in the neocortex, amygdala and hippocampus. This unique localization of CB1 receptors points to the existence of functional interactions between the cannabinoid and GABAergic systems. Indeed, activation of cannabinoid receptors generally results in the inhibition of ongoing neurotransmitter ','Muscimol, ACPA, state- dependent memory, passive avoidance task, rat','Learning and memory are the complicated agents of central nervous system that various regions of brain can be involved in these phenomena, especially regions like hippocamp. Various agents like cannabinoid and GABA can influence learning and memory. In the present study, the effect of cannabinoid receptors agonist, ACPA, on muscimol induced state-dependent memory examined. Cannabinoids cause a wide array of effects in different species. Their effects are mainly produced through cannabinoid receptors; CB1and CB2 subtypes. The CB1 receptors are densely expressed in areas classically involved in learning and memory. In rodents, the CB1 receptor is almost exclusively expressed by GABAergic interneurons in the neocortex, amygdala and hippocampus. This unique localization of CB1 receptors points to the existence of functional interactions between the cannabinoid and GABAergic systems. Indeed, activation of cannabinoid receptors generally results in the inhibition of ongoing neurotransmitter ','Memories especially those of emotional types, can depend on an endogenous state of subjects; this phenomenon is termed state-dependence(Barros et al. 2000; McGaugh 2005). In a state-dependent memory when pre- or post-training administrations of a drug decrease memory for a task, administration of the drug prior to testing retards the extinction of the task (Overton 1991). According to previous researches, variety of drugs can induce state-dependent memory in laboratory animals (Izquierdo and Dias 1983). Cannabinoids has also been shown to induce state-dependent memory. Either pre- or post-training administrations of a potent synthetic cannabinoid receptor agonist, WIN55,212-2, impaired retrieval of learned tasks, which was reversible by pre-test administration of the drug (Zarrindast et al. 2006; Nasehi et al. 2009a). Cannabinoids, as psychoactive drugs cause different effects in a large number of species. The agents exert their effects through two different CB1 (Matsuda et al. 1990) a','Bahareh Pakpour, Kobra Jafari and Majid Navaian (2015). Influence of ACPA in the Dorsal Hippocampus on Muscimol state - dependent, learning in the inhibitory Avoidance Task .Biological Forum â€“ An International Journal 7(1): 1400-1408 .'),(4326,'117','Impact of Salinity Stress on Seed Germination Characteristics of Two Medicinal Species Salvia verticillata and S. limbata','Melika Hashemi and Mojtaba Akhavan Armaki','221 MELIKA HASHEMI.pdf','',1,'The purpose of this study was to investigate the effects of salt stress on germination characteristics and seedling morphology in two medicinal species of S. verticillata and S. limbata. A factorial experiment was conducted using completely randomized design with four replications and seven salinity levels. The salinity factor were included of 0, 50, 100 150, 200, 250 and 300 mm NaCl. Data were collected for germination percentage, germination rate, time means of germination, radicle length, plumule length, seed vigor, and allometry ratios. The overall means of germination percentage, germination rate, radicle length, and seed vigor were lower for T. daenensis as 41.44, 0.28, 1.15 and 1.87 than those for S. verticillata as 54.32, 0.37, 1.81 and 2.8, respectively, indicating more tolerant to salinity for S. verticillata than that for S. limbata. Results showed that by increasing salinity, the germination percentage, rate of germination, plumule length, radicle length, and seed vigor wer','Salinity stress, Germination characteristics, Medicinal plants, Salvia verticillata, Salvia limbata','The purpose of this study was to investigate the effects of salt stress on germination characteristics and seedling morphology in two medicinal species of S. verticillata and S. limbata. A factorial experiment was conducted using completely randomized design with four replications and seven salinity levels. The salinity factor were included of 0, 50, 100 150, 200, 250 and 300 mm NaCl. Data were collected for germination percentage, germination rate, time means of germination, radicle length, plumule length, seed vigor, and allometry ratios. The overall means of germination percentage, germination rate, radicle length, and seed vigor were lower for T. daenensis as 41.44, 0.28, 1.15 and 1.87 than those for S. verticillata as 54.32, 0.37, 1.81 and 2.8, respectively, indicating more tolerant to salinity for S. verticillata than that for S. limbata. Results showed that by increasing salinity, the germination percentage, rate of germination, plumule length, radicle length, and seed vigor wer','Medicinal plants play an important role in the provision of health care in many developing countries. They also provide a stable economic return to local communities especially through the sale of wild-harvested material. Most of the genus Salvia L. (Labiatae) are medicinal plants that consist of about 215 species of herbaceous perennials and sub shrubs. They originated from Mediterranean region (Jamzad, 2010). Salvia species are commonly used as herbal tea, flavoring agents (condiment and spice) and medicinal plants (Burnett, et al., 2005). Among the species grown in Iran, Salvia limbata Celak and Salvia verticillata Boiss. are more widely used for these purposes. Infusion and decoction of aerial parts of Salvia species are used as tonic, carminative, digestive, antispasmodic, anti-inflammatory, expectorant and for the treatment of colds in Iranian traditional medicine (Moghimi, 2005). Recent studies have showed that Salvia species have strong antibacterial, antifungal, antiviral, a','Melika Hashemi and Mojtaba Akhavan Armaki (2015). Impact of Salinity Stress on Seed Germination Characteristics of Two Medicinal Species Salvia verticillata and S. limbata .Biological Forum â€“ An International Journal 7(1): 1409-1413 .'),(4327,'117','Evaluation of Some Habitat Characteristics of Rosa iberica (Case study: Nourdasht watershed in Esfahan, Iran)','Mojtaba Akhavan Armaki','222 MOJTABA AKHAVAN ARMAKI.pdf','',1,'Soil samples were taken by a systematic randomized method at elevation 2000-2400 m above sea level. Samples were taken from 0-30 cm depth. In the laboratory, N, P, K% and organic matter (OC%), soil acidity (pH), conductivity (EC) and soil texture were determined. The collected data were analyzed and principal component analysis was performed on 14 variables using PC-ORD software. Results showed that these species are scattered in the height of 2100-2300 m above sea level with 15-65% slope in North, Northwest, Southeast and Southwest as spot bulks. Mean precipitation of this area is 227.5 mm. It\'s vegetative, flowering and seed maturity stages occur in middle March, May and June, respectively. Plant roots permeate into the depth of 1.5 m and plant propagated by both seeds and rhizome. However, its seed has hard coat resulting in a difficulty in germinating so that the seed propagation is not sexual and it propagated normally by rhizomes. This species growth in the soil with EC = 0.08-0.','Habitat Characteristics, Rosa iberica, Nourdasht watershed','Regarding to the results of studies, it was clear that this plant grows in low heights and slopes with mean precipitation of 227.5 mm, average annual temperature of 12Â°C, maximum temperature of 39.6Â°C and minimum temperature of -31.1Â°C. \r\nMean annual humidity is 49.4%. According to Domarten climate method, this location is cold semi-arid. Considering the same climatic and topographic conditions of study area, the most important factors in the establishment and distribution are height and slope directions, so the maximum density is seen in the height of 2100-2300 m in 4 aspects in 18-65% slopes. In a plant with vertical and horizontal root system, vertical roots penetrate into the deep soil layers and horizontal roots spread in surface layers to 80 cm and a new plant grows from this root rhizome. Vertical roots can penetrate to the depth of 1.5m.\r\nThey are connected by under-ground organs leading to their spot diffusion in north-west, south east, south west and north directions. Thes','Regarding the plant species diffusion in various parts of the country and region and their importance in natural resource management, it is necessary to recognize the effective ecological factors. This leads to achieve the required knowledge for appropriate use of plant species in improving the ecosystem and scientific management of ecosystems. The major purpose of this research is to identify the ecosystem features and behavior of plant species in the rangelands of Nourdasht in Nourdasht watershed in Esfahan, Iran. There are many researches done on the individual ecology of rangeland species in various locations of Iran. Kianipour and Shahmoradi (2002) in studying Cyperus eremicus ecology in Isfahan concluded that this plant with relatively limited ecologic range grows in the regions with a sand or loamy soil texture in 750-1150 m above sea level. Azhir and Shahmoradi (2006) studied Ferula ovina ecology in Tehran province and reported that this species grows in the height of 2000-320','Mojtaba Akhavan Armaki (2015). Evaluation of Some Habitat Characteristics of Rosa iberica (Case study: Nourdasht watershed in Esfahan, Iran) .Biological Forum â€“ An International Journal 7(1): 1414-1418 .'),(4328,'117','Assessment of Seed Bed Preparation Methods on Seedling Emergence Rate in Range Species (Case study: Kashan Rangelands of Iran)','Sajad Hosseinzadeh Monfared','223 SAJAD HOSSEINZADEH MONFARED.pdf','',1,'This study was conducted to compare the methods of seed bed preparation in rangelands of Kashan region in Esfahan province in Iran. A split plot design was conducted based on Randomized complete block design with three replications in 2011. Five seed bed preparation methods were used as main plot as: 1) Seed sown by passing livestock. 2) Seed sown machinery. 3) Seeds sown as drilled into furrows. 4) Seeds sowing into furrows covered by straw mulch .5) Seed sown machinery and pressed by roller. Six range species were used as: Artemisia santolina, Eurotia ceratoides, Kochia lanta, Salsola rigida, Salvia sp. and Artemisia sieberi, as sub-plot. The results of experiment showed significant differences among the seed bed preparation methods on seedling emergence rate. Salsola and Eurotia had higher germination percent when they sown and passing through livestock. Kochia and Eurotia had higher germination by machinery seeder followed by roller. The lowest germination percent was obtained by m','Seed bed preparation, Range establishment, Rangeland, Kashan, Range species','This study was conducted to compare the methods of seed bed preparation in rangelands of Kashan region in Esfahan province in Iran. A split plot design was conducted based on Randomized complete block design with three replications in 2011. Five seed bed preparation methods were used as main plot as: 1) Seed sown by passing livestock. 2) Seed sown machinery. 3) Seeds sown as drilled into furrows. 4) Seeds sowing into furrows covered by straw mulch .5) Seed sown machinery and pressed by roller. Six range species were used as: Artemisia santolina, Eurotia ceratoides, Kochia lanta, Salsola rigida, Salvia sp. and Artemisia sieberi, as sub-plot. The results of experiment showed significant differences among the seed bed preparation methods on seedling emergence rate. Salsola and Eurotia had higher germination percent when they sown and passing through livestock. Kochia and Eurotia had higher germination by machinery seeder followed by roller. The lowest germination percent was obtained by m','Reform and revive pastures increased quality and quantity of forage production and livestock roducts to bring the maximum possible. The main goal of reform project and revive pastures is the access to special plant community that has good palatability for livestock, the retainment of water in the soil which prevents it from wind erosion. One of the major issues in Kashan rangelands (In the same province) is lack of pasture species with high quality and palatability and existence of undesirable and non-palatability species in plant community composition of rangelands. To overcome these problems, cultivation of compatible species led to increased pasture quality and creating favorable conditions for the species through appropriate management of rangelands, as well as the undesirable species can be controlled. Fundamental issue in this regard is seed bed preparation and sowing of compactable species in the rangelands. Without making seed bed preparation, the cost of seeding operations wil','Sajad Hosseinzadeh Monfared (2015). Assessment of Seed Bed Preparation Methods on Seedling Emergence Rate in Range Species (Case study: Kashan Rangelands of Iran) .Biological Forum â€“ An International Journal 7(1): 1419-1425 .'),(4329,'117','Effects of Late-Season Drought Stress on some Physiological Traits, Yield and Yield Components of Wheat Genotypes','Masoud Aghanejad, Siroos Mahfoozi and Younes Sharghi','224 MASOUD AGHANEJAD.pdf','',1,'Drought, one of the environmental stresses, is the most significant factor restricting plant production in the majority of agricultural fields of the world. Wheat is generally grown on arid-agricultural fields. Drought often causes serious problems in wheat production areas. In order to investigate the effect of late season drought stress on some physiological traits, yield and yield components of seen wheat genotypes and experiment was conducted in Seed and Plant Improvement Institute, Karaj, Iran during 2012-2013 growing season. Six wheat lines and one cultivar as control (C-85-D8, C-85-D9, C-85-D13, C-88-D5, C-88-D6, C-85-D12 and Pishgam cultivar) were evaluated in two separate normal and drought stress conditions (no irrigation at 50% pollination stage) using a split plot layout based on randomized complete block design with three replications. According to the results, drought stress decreased 1000-seed weight, seed number per ear and final seed yield. In addition, drought stress ','Drought stress, Physiological traits, Wheat, Yield','Generally, the results indicated that drought stress affects yield and yield components as well as physiological traits of wheat genotypes. In addition, we have found that there is significant difference between wheat genotypes so that C-85D-13 and C-85D-9 genotypes showed the highest compatibility with drought stress conditions. In addition, the results showed that Pishgam cultivar is a suitable cultivar for both normal and stressed conditions. ','Drought stress has been defined as one of the environmental stresses, which is the most significant factor restricting plant growth and crop productivity in the majority of agricultural fields of the world (Tas and Tas, 2007). It is much more important in arid and semi-arid regions (Kirigwi et al., 2004). About 33% of wheat fields in the world and about 55% in the developing countries are suffering from drought stress. In these regions, water deficit influences all developmental stages of wheat from germination to seed formation and finally yield (Trethowan et al., 2001). Due to the complexity of drought as a stress factor, deciphering precise plant mechanisms for drought tolerance has remained a major challenge to plant biologists. The response of plants to drought stress is very complicated and they manage stress through stress avoidance approaches that depends on genotype (Ammar et al., 2013). In general, drought is responsible for several metabolic processes of plants, with photosy','Masoud Aghanejad, Siroos Mahfoozi and Younes Sharghi (2015). Effects of Late-Season Drought Stress on some Physiological Traits, Yield and Yield Components of Wheat Genotypes .Biological Forum â€“ An International Journal 7(1): 1426-1431 .'),(4330,'117','Forecasting of Tea Yield Based on Energy Inputs using Artificial Neural Networks (A case study: Guilan province of Iran)','Farshad Soheili-Fard and Seyed Babak Salvatian','225 FARSHAD SOHEILIFARD.pdf','',1,'The objective of this study was the exploring relation between energy inputs and tea yield using artificial neural network (ANN) in the Guilan province of Iran. For this purpose, the energy use pattern was determined by collection data from 30 tea farmers using face-to-face questionnaire method in the many village of studied region. The results indicated the total energy consumption and yield of tea production were 46144.04 MJ ha-1 and 8419.47 kg ha-1, respectively. The highest share of energy consumption was belonged to nitrogen with 50.84%. In this study, the energy indices covering energy use efficiency, energy productivity, specific energy and net energy were calculated at 0.18, 0.23 kg MJ-1, 4.38 MJ kg-1 and -37724.57 MJ ha-1, respectively. Moreover, the share of energy forms including direct, indirect, renewable and non-renewable energies was found to be as 42.96%, 57.04%, 28.34% and 71.66%, respectively. For forecasting of tea yield based on energy inputs, ANN model developed by','Artificial neural networks, Energy, Forecast, Model; Tea production','Total energy consumption and yield of tea production were 46144.04 MJ ha-1 and 8419.47 kg ha-1, respectively. Nitrogen had the highest share of energy use among all inputs, at 50.84%; followed by human labor with 28.11%. The average rates of energy indices, including energy use efficiency, energy productivity, specific energy and net energy were calculated at 0.18, 0.23 kg MJ-1, 4.38 MJ kg-1 and -37724.57 MJ ha-1, respectively. The results of energy forms analysis indicated that the share of indirect and non-renewable energy was more than direct and renewable energies, significantly. The best model for predicting of tea yield was an ANN model with a 7-13-13-1 structure. With respect to the best topology, R2, RMSE and MAPE was found to be as 0.968, 0.105 and 0.006, respectively. The results of the sensitivity analysis showed that farmyard manure with 0.058 had the highest rate of sensitivity; followed by diesel fuel with 0.050.',' (1) \r\n (2)\r\n \r\n (3)\r\n Net energy = Output energy (MJha-1)- Input energy(MJha-1) â€¦(4)\r\nFor the purpose of growth and development energy demand in agriculture is divided into direct and indirect energies or renewable and non-renewable energies. Direct energy (DE) covers human labor and diesel fuel, while indirect energy (IDE) includes energy embodied in machinery, chemical fertilizers, farmyard manure and biocides used in the tea farms. Renewable energy (RE) consists of human labor and farmyard manure, whereas non-renewable energy (NRE) includes machinery, diesel fuel, chemical fertilizer and biocides.\r\nC. Artificial neural networks (ANN)\r\nInterest in using artificial neural networks (ANNs) for forecasting has led to a tremendous surge in research activities in the past two decades. They can also be configured in various arrangements to perform a range of tasks including classification, pattern recognition, data mining and process mode','Farshad Soheili-Fard and Seyed Babak Salvatian (2015). Forecasting of Tea Yield Based on Energy Inputs using Artificial Neural Networks (A case study: Guilan province of Iran). Biological Forum â€“ An International Journal 7(1): 1432-1438 .'),(4331,'117','GT biplot Analysis of Genetic Diversity in Bread Wheat Using In Vitro Indicators of Drought Tolerance','Ezatollah Farshadfar, Saba Kianifar and Roghaye Chaghakabodi','226 EZATOLLAH FARSHADFAR.pdf','',1,'Mature embryos callus of 20 wheat genotypes were used in a factorial experiment based on completely randomized design (CRD) for screening drought tolerant genotypes. The results of analysis of variance for callus characteristics exhibited highly significant differences between the genotypes for callus growth rate (CGR), relative fresh weight growth (RFWG), relative growth rate (RGR), relative water content (RWC), percentage of callus chlorosis (PCC) and proline content (PC) indicating high genotypic variation and possible selection of drought tolerant genotypes at in vitro level. The genotype-by-trait (GT) biplot captured 94% of the total variation. Polygon view of 20 wheat genotypes with 9 callus characteristics indicated that the vertex genotype G6 (WC - 4640) had the highest values for RFWG, RGR, RWC,INTOL, PC, CGI and relative tolerance (RT%). Significant correlations among most of traits suggested that% RTcan be recommended as a suitable selection criterion for screening drought t','Triticum aestivum L., traits correlation, genotype by traits (GT) biplot, in vitro indicators of drought tolerance','Mature embryos callus of 20 wheat genotypes were used in a factorial experiment based on completely randomized design (CRD) for screening drought tolerant genotypes. The results of analysis of variance for callus characteristics exhibited highly significant differences between the genotypes for callus growth rate (CGR), relative fresh weight growth (RFWG), relative growth rate (RGR), relative water content (RWC), percentage of callus chlorosis (PCC) and proline content (PC) indicating high genotypic variation and possible selection of drought tolerant genotypes at in vitro level. The genotype-by-trait (GT) biplot captured 94% of the total variation. Polygon view of 20 wheat genotypes with 9 callus characteristics indicated that the vertex genotype G6 (WC - 4640) had the highest values for RFWG, RGR, RWC,INTOL, PC, CGI and relative tolerance (RT%). Significant correlations among most of traits suggested that% RTcan be recommended as a suitable selection criterion for screening drought t','Drought is a major abiotic stress which causes important agricultural losses, mainly in arid and semiarid areas. Drought stress causes moisture depletion in soil and water deficit with a decrease of water potential in plant tissues. The similarities of the effects induced by the stress in the plant cultured in vitro and in vivo conditions suggest that the in vitro system can be used as an alternative to field evaluations for studying the general effect of water-stress on plant growth and development. During past years, in vitro selection for cells exhibiting increased tolerance to water or drought stress has been reported (Barakat and Abdel-Latif, 1995; Errabii et al., 2006; Mohamed et al., 2000). In vitro selection can considerably shorten the time for the selection of desirable traits under selection pressure with minimal environmental interaction, and can complement field selection (Jain, 2001).\r\nTissue culture technique has been effectively utilized to induce tolerance which includ','Ezatollah Farshadfar, Saba Kianifar and Roghaye Chaghakabodi (2015).GT biplot Analysis of Genetic Diversity in Bread Wheat Using In Vitro Indicators of Drought Tolerance .Biological Forum â€“ An International Journal 7(1): 1439-1447 . '),(4332,'117','Correlation of Quantitative Traits with some Physiological traits in Common Bean under Water Deficit Stress','Mozhgan Shakouri, Mostafa Valizadeh, Majid Noroozi and Parvaneh Eslami','227 MOZHGAN SHAKOURI.pdf','',1,'To evaluate effects of water deficit on quantitative traits and some physiological traits, two experiments based on completely randomized design were carried out under field conditions. In experiment 1, plants irrigation cycle was each 5 days (normal condition) whereas in other experiment, was each 10 days. In both experiments, 22 genotypes of common beans were studied. Relative water content (RWC) and stomatal resistance were studied as physiological characteristics. number of pods per plant, seed per pods, weight of 100 seeds and seed yield of each plant were measured. There was significant differences in quantitative and physiological traits between all genotypes of bean in both irrigation conditions, which is it indicate to high level of genetic variation in bean. Under water deficit condition ,the fallowing traits: seed yield of each plant , number of pods per plant and weight of 100 seeds decrease respectively compared to normal condition. RWC showed relative decrement in normal ','Common bean, Physiological traits, Quantitative traits, Water deficit stress','To evaluate effects of water deficit on quantitative traits and some physiological traits, two experiments based on completely randomized design were carried out under field conditions. In experiment 1, plants irrigation cycle was each 5 days (normal condition) whereas in other experiment, was each 10 days. In both experiments, 22 genotypes of common beans were studied. Relative water content (RWC) and stomatal resistance were studied as physiological characteristics. number of pods per plant, seed per pods, weight of 100 seeds and seed yield of each plant were measured. There was significant differences in quantitative and physiological traits between all genotypes of bean in both irrigation conditions, which is it indicate to high level of genetic variation in bean. Under water deficit condition ,the fallowing traits: seed yield of each plant , number of pods per plant and weight of 100 seeds decrease respectively compared to normal condition. RWC showed relative decrement in normal ','Annual production of common bean is approximately 230 million tons. It is one of the best crop product and allocated 1st place among the legumes (Emeterio Payro et al., 2004). One of the greatest challenges of 21 century is to use lesser water for crop products (Bastiiaanssen and Makin, 2003). In the arid and semi-arid regions of the world water crisis is serious (FAO, 2000). Water deficiency leads to decrease plant yield via biomass and/or distribution of dry matter in different parts of plant. This phenomenon depends on duration and tension of drought stress especially in last stages of growth (Winkel et al., 1997). During the growth, plants face different kind of biotic and abiotic stresses. Among them, drought is much more harmful than other environmental stress, (Hasegawa et al., 2000; Yamaguchi-Shinozaki et al., 2002). Beans are sensitive to drought stress in farm, where in hot conditions high levels of water evaporation leads to closure of leaf \r\n\r\n\r\nstomata and minimize the ','Mozhgan Shakouri, Mostafa Valizadeh, Majid Noroozi and Parvaneh Eslami (2015). Correlation of Quantitative Traits with some Physiological traits in Common Bean under Water Deficit Stress .Biological Forum â€“ An International Journal 7(1): 1448-1451 .'),(4333,'117','Energy Efficiency and Economic Analysis of Winter Caltivation (Lettuce, Bersim Clover, Broad bean) in Mazandaran Province of Iran','Bahram Razavinia, Hormoz Fallah and Yousef Niknejad','228 HOMROZ FALLAH.pdf','',1,'Energy consumption in the world and Iran has increased in recent years. Recently, farmers apply more energy to produce food. To achieve the best performance, review and analyze the energy and economic of food production is very important. In this study, the energy equivalences of input-output used in the winter cultivation (Lettuce, Bersim Clover, Broad bean) have been investigated in Mazandaran province of Iran. The required information has been achieved from the questionnaire with the help of 58 farmers from 6 villages in Amol city, Mazandaran province. The result illustrated that maximum value of energy consumed in the fall planting, are related to fertilizers and pesticides. Bean has higher energy efficiency compared to others, due to high yield per hectare and the energy content of the bean. Lettuce with a performance almost equal to the clover, due to lower energy content of it, has the lower ranking on this assessment. According to the results, lettuce as the best option from a','Lettuce, Bersim Clover, Broad bean, Energy analysis, Direct energy, Renewable energy','In this study, energy analysis of winter cultivation (Lettuce, Bersim Clover, and Broad Bean) production in Amol city of Iran was investigated. Data were collected from 58 farmers which were selected on random sampling method. The analysis results showed that the highest energy productivity was related to Bean Clover (1.79kg/MJ) and the lowest was related to Broad Bean (0.36 kg/MJ). The highest proficiency (Output-Input ratio) was related to Broad bean (681631.2 MJ/ha). Because of high efficiency per hectare and high energy content of Broad beam, this plant has higher proficiency in comparison with other plants (Lettuce and Bersim Clover). Despite of equal proficiency of Lettuce and Clover, Lettuce stands in end of this evaluation because of less energy content. From among all usable energy, the highest value is related to fertilizers and pesticides and where as input energy has straight respect with energy proficiency, it\'s suggest that operational standard is defined for enrich of di','Nowadays, with the increasing world population on the one hand and extension of poverty and hunger in third world countries on the other hand, agriculture as a source of human nutrition is very important. In recent years, the trend towards increased consumption of energy in the world and also in Iran has caused to farmers use more energy to produce food. Thus, energy use in agriculture increases by increasing limited arable land, population, and increasing of life quality. On the other hand, due to limited resources and the adverse effects resulting from the appropriate use of various energy sources on human health and the environment, the need to examine the pattern of energy consumption in agriculture is unavoidable (Hatirli et al., 2005). Considering the energy crisis, increasing fossil fuel consumption and consequently an increase in emissions of various greenhouse gases into the environment, reducing energy consumption as much as possible is necessary. Energy consumption in the w','Bahram Razavinia, Hormoz Fallah and Yousef Niknejad (2015). Energy Efficiency and Economic Analysis of Winter Caltivation (Lettuce, Bersim Clover, Broad bean) in Mazandaran Province of Iran .Biological Forum â€“ An International Journal 7(1): 1452-1460 .'),(4334,'117','The effect of Hydroalcoholic Extract of Cinnamon on Mice Testis Tissue','Mohammad Niaz Mahmoudi, Sajjad Hejazi and Fatemeh Afshari','229 SAJJAD HEJAZI @ DR. EBRAHIM KHALILVAND-f.pdf','',1,'Cinnamon is a plant with a scientific name of Cinnamoum zeylanicum belongs to Lauraceae family. The herb has many curative effects important of which is the libido increase. the present study aimed to the study of cinnamon hydro-alcoholic extract effect on mouse testis. The mice received no substance in the control group. The mice of the experimental group received 50 mg/kg alcoholic extract of cinnamon intraperitoneally for 3 weeks. The data was explained as Mean Â± SEM and T-Test was used to analyze the data of the groups via SPSS software. P was valued smaller than 0.05 between two groups. The tissue samples were evaluated under the optical microscope. At first, the seminiferous tubules with a similar cross-sectional area were measured under the microscope with a calibrated lens. The studies demonstrated that there is no difference between control and treatment groups in terms of appearance and the tubules distribution. Also, any tissue damage caused by cinnamon administration was n','Cinnamon, Mice, Testis Tissue','The obtained results demonstrate that the hydro-alcoholic effects of cinnamon extract in the experimental group create meaningful differences compared with control group as well as a greater increase in spermatocyte number. The results can approve the cinnamon extract effect on spermatogenesis increase. It can be said that oligospermia and azoospermia in males are two factors leading infertility; so, it can be said that cinnamon can be used to increase fertility in males as a treatment of oligospermia. However, wider researches are recommended in this area. ','Cinnamon is a plant with a scientific name of Cinnamoum zeylanicum belongs to Lauraceae family. The herb has many curative effects important of which is the libido increase. Cinnamon with a scientific name of J. Presl cinnamum verum belongs to Lauraceae family, Cinnamomum genus, and Cinnamoum zeylanicum verum species. Besides its flavoring properties, the plant has other beneficial properties such as anti microbial activity, anti diabetes, prevention the cancer cells proliferation, and effective in cold treatment (Anderson et. al., 2004; Peter et. al., 2004). The herb has antioxidant properties because of phenolic and other antioxidant compounds. The most antioxidant compounds of the plant are cinnacassiol, eugenol, camphene, coumarin, cinnamaldehyde, cinnamic asid, and gamma-terpinene. The compounds prevent oxidative reactions and can be obtained by extracting the plant. (Murcia et. al., 2004; Parthasarathy et. al., 2008). Murica (2004) compared the antioxidant properties of seven ','Mohammad Niaz Mahmoudi, Sajjad Hejazi and Fatemeh Afshari (2015). The effect of Hydroalcoholic Extract of Cinnamon on Mice Testis Tissue .Biological Forum â€“ An International Journal 7(1): 1461-1468 .'),(4335,'117','Evaluation of a Data Mining model in Predicting of â€œAverage Temperatureâ€ and Potential Evapotranspiration Month for the next Month in the Synoptic Weather Station Yazd','Seyyed Hassan Mirhashemi and Mehdi Panahi','230 HASSAN MIRHASHEMI.pdf','',1,'In this paper have been evaluated the ability of M5P Tree models to estimation â€œaverage temperatureâ€ and â€œMonthly potential evapotranspiration months later,â€ for Yazd synoptic weather stations. The data used in this article, are the average monthly data of Yazd weather station, including: â€œaverage temperatureâ€, â€œsunshine hoursâ€, â€œdew pointâ€, â€œrelative humidityâ€, â€œaverage wind speedâ€ and â€œsaturation vapor pressure deficitâ€ in forty-six-year period from 1960 to 2005 AD. Output variables used, are â€œaverage temperatureâ€ and â€œMonthly potential evapotranspiration months later,â€ as monthly basis. After introducing the weather data as mean monthly to the algorithm as input variables and monthly potential evapotranspiration months later, as the output variables, to the M5P algorithm were evaluated using â€œcorrelation coefficientâ€, â€œRoot Mean Square Errorâ€ and â€œmean absolute errorâ€. According to the three statistical indexes, M5P Tree model have','Data mining, M5P Tree model, Penman-Monteith equation, average temperature, synoptic weather station, Yazd','From this study it can be concluded that: Techniques of â€œdata miningâ€ such M5P Tree model can be used to estimate average evapotranspiration and monthly average temperature of the next month. M5P Tree model with an estimate of monthly average temperature \r\n\r\nfor the next month is shown that can have a high capacity to estimating meteorological parameters. This model can be used in a variety of stations that are deficient in recorded meteorological parameters. It was concluded from Table 2. \r\n \r\n\r\nSensitivity to M5P Tree model with enter the six parameters, including average temperature (c), sunny hours (h), dew point temperature (c), average relative humidity (%), and saturation vapor pressure deficit (mbar) as input variables have the best performance, relative to the composition of the other parameters in Table 2. \r\n','Meteorological data those are measured and archives at different stations included a large volume of information and are increasing their volume over time. Accordingly, most felt the need for new methods of â€œdata miningâ€ of them. In some cases, a lot of variables are used that may be some of them are not measure in all weather stations. Therefore is necessary to make use of modern techniques such as data mining.\r\nDefinitions of data - mining. Data mining has many broad definitions. The definitions lot depends on the individual backgrounds and points of view. So we can say that the data mining is a set of methods in process of knowledge discovery that used to recognize patterns and undisclosed relationships in data. Data mining can also be said is a process recognition valid, new, useful and understandable pattern, from data. Data mining is a technique that combines hypothesis tests and derives data- discovered. In the Assuming tests, researchers can test ideas against the data to c','Seyyed Hassan Mirhashemi and Mehdi Panahi (2015). Evaluation of a Data Mining model in Predicting of â€œAverage Temperatureâ€ and Potential Evapotranspiration Month for the next Month in the Synoptic Weather Station Yazd .Biological Forum â€“ An Internat'),(4336,'117','Some Antioxidant enzymes banding patterns and their correlation in common bean genotypes under water deficit stress','Parvaneh Eslami, Mostafa Valizadeh , Majid norouzi and Mozhgan Shakouri','231 PARVANEH ESLAMI.pdf','',1,'To evaluate effects of water deficit on some antioxidant enzyme activities two experiments based on randomized complete block design were carried out under field conditions. In experiment one, plants irrigation cycle was each five days (normal condition) whereas in experiment two, once per 10 days (stress condition). In both experiments, 23 genotypes of common beans were studied. Catalase (CAT), peroxidase (POX) and superoxide dismutase (SOD) activities were studied via polyacrylamide gel (8%) electrophoresis. Three isozymes for POX and SOD and one isozymes for CAT were observed. There was significant difference for isozyme activities in both normal and water deficit conditions, indicating high genetic variations in common beans. According to the results, SOD and CAT activity levels were significantly increased in all genotypes in water deficit condition compared to normal irrigation, but POX has an increase and decrease pattern during stress. There was a significant and positive corr','Catalase, Common bean, Electrophoresis, Peroxidase, Superoxide dismutase, Water deficit','To evaluate effects of water deficit on some antioxidant enzyme activities two experiments based on randomized complete block design were carried out under field conditions. In experiment one, plants irrigation cycle was each five days (normal condition) whereas in experiment two, once per 10 days (stress condition). In both experiments, 23 genotypes of common beans were studied. Catalase (CAT), peroxidase (POX) and superoxide dismutase (SOD) activities were studied via polyacrylamide gel (8%) electrophoresis. Three isozymes for POX and SOD and one isozymes for CAT were observed. There was significant difference for isozyme activities in both normal and water deficit conditions, indicating high genetic variations in common beans. According to the results, SOD and CAT activity levels were significantly increased in all genotypes in water deficit condition compared to normal irrigation, but POX has an increase and decrease pattern during stress. There was a significant and positive corr','Annual production of common bean is approximately 230 million tons. It is one of the best crop product and allocated 1st place among the legumes (Emeterio Payro et al., 2004). One of the greatest challenges of 21 century is to use lesser water for crop products (Bastiiaanssen and Makin, 2003). During the growth, plants face different kind of biotic and abiotic stresses. Among them, drought is much more harmful than other environmental stress, (Hasegawa et al., 2000; Yamaguchi-Shinozaki et al., 2002). Atmosphere contains 21% oxygen and because of coupoled orbitals it exists in stabletal form. In metabolic pathways, oxigen recieves one, two or three electrons and turns to supreoxide (O2-), hydrogen peroxide (H2O2) and other radicals, respectively in stressed plants (Beak and Skinner, 2003). Reactive oxigens are oxidant molcules and harmfull to plant cells In the nature, plant scavenge reactive oxygen species (ROS) using enzymatic and non-enzymetic systems. Enzyme system includes pero','Parvaneh Eslami, Mostafa Valizadeh , Majid norouzi and Mozhgan Shakouri (2015). Some Antioxidant enzymes banding patterns and their correlation in common bean genotypes under water deficit stress .Biological Forum â€“ An International Journal 7(1): 1474-'),(4337,'117','Estimation of Water Requirement of Olive Orchards with Satellite Images (Case Study: Tarom)','Mehdi Panahi and Mohammadreza Mokhtari','232 MEHDI PANAHI.pdf','',1,'Knowing water requirement or the actual amount of evapotranspiration for agricultural lands is an appropriate tool and technique for water resource management. Estimation of actual evapotranspiration from field observations is a time-consuming and difficult task. In this regard, remote sensing methods are powerful tools for the assessment of water consumption in a regional scale. In this study, MODIS (land bands 1-7, and thermal bands) and SEBAL algorithm were used to extract water requirement of olive in Tarom County from December 22, 2011 to August 23, 2013. Results from SEBAL algorithm were compared with Penman-Monteith method. Findings indicated that the root mean square error (RMSE) in the estimation of daily evapotranspiration by MODIS and Penman-Monteith method was 0.98. ','Water Requirement, SEBAL Algorithm, Penman-Monteith, Olive, Tarom County','The main goal of the study was to investigate and assess water requirement or actual evapotranspiration of olive orchards in growth season, using remote sensing and satellite images, as well as comparing the results of this method with those of Penman-Monteith. To this end, MODIS images were used as the main data for the estimation of desired parameters. The results from the estimation of olive evapotranspiration, using SEBAL algorithm, were compared and validated with the findings of actual evapotranspiration obtained from the Penman-Monteith method. In this comparison, the values of statistical indices (Nr, RMSE, AI, and MBI) were used as validation parameters. The values of these indices for the first comparison of MODIS results were 0.98, 0.73, 0.88, and 0.71, respectively. The error rate of SEBAL method (using MODIS images), relative to Penman-Monteith method, was estimated as 22%. In general, the estimated values, using MODIS images, were higher than the actual evapotranspiration','Irrigation planning is an important aspect for successful production of high-quality crops (Intrigliolo and CASTEL, 2008). To achieve an optimal irrigation planning, access to a reliable method for the determination of water consumption, i.e. daily evapotranspiration (ET), is essential. To this end, remote sensing methods are powerful tools for ET estimation in studying water consumption in a regional scale (Gowda et al., 2008). Since 90s, the most common energy balance-based remote sensing algorithms for ET estimation were the Surface Energy Balance Algorithm for Land (SEBAL) (Bastiaanssen et al., 1998) and the Surface Energy Balance System (SEBS). The SEBAL algorithm was introduced by Bastiaanssen et al. (1998) to determine water and energy fluxes. It is capable of computing evapotranspiration using satellite images. An advantage of SEBAL is that it requires quantitative data for the calculation of pixel-based actual evapotranspiration and covers vast areas (Bashir et al., 2008). Th','Mehdi Panahi and Mohammadreza Mokhtari (2015). Estimation of Water Requirement of Olive Orchards with Satellite Images (Case Study: Tarom) .Biological Forum â€“ An International Journal 7(1): 1479-1484 .'),(4338,'117','Evaluation of Weeds Interference Period on Yield and some Traits of new Varieties of Safflower in Birjand','Reza Mohmadali-Nejad and Seyyed Gholamreza Moosavi','233 REZA MOHMADALI-NEJAD @ SR MOOSAVI.pdf','',1,'In order to study the effect of weeds interference and variety on yield and some traits of safflower, a factorial experiment was carried out at the centre of agricultural research and natural resource of Khorasan Jonoobi, Iran in 2013 based on a randomized complete block design with three replications. Factors of the experiment included three variety of safflower (Goldasht, Padideh and Golsefid) and six levels of weed interference (complete control of weeds during the whole growth season, interference until stem elongation, until the production of sub branches, untill the start of flowering, until the end of grain fill and during the whole growth season). The results showed that variety of Padideh had the highest grain yield and increase in the period of weed interference leads to significant decrease in grain yield of different varieties of safflower. Based on the results of the experiment, Padide and Goldasht varieties are suggested to be used in Birjand condition because of their b','Safflower, Weed interference, Yield','The results indicated that Padida and Golsefid varieties of safflower are more appropriate for Birjand region, due to their higher yield. The weed control should take place at sub branch production stage or at the beginning of shoot growth.','Safflower, Weed interference, Yield\r\nOil grains are the world\'s second food resource after cereals (Shariaty and Ghazi Shahni Zadeh, 2000). Safflower (Carthamus tinctorius L.) having 25-40 percen oil of which 90 percent are unsaturated fatty acids particularly linolic acid and having relatively 12 to 22 percent protein, has always been regarded as an important oil grain (Jamshi-Moghadam and Pourdad, 2006). Weeds are the main barier in agriculture systems and if they are not controlled in farms, the yield of plants will reduce from 10 to 100 percent depending on the weed competition potentials (Auskarniene et al., 2010). Considering that the weed growth time and the period of competition with the plant affects crop yield (Lance, 2003), hence determination of proper time for weed control can play an important role in management of weeds (Ahn et al., 2005). Determination of this time takes place through functional relation of two competitive parts of weeds including determining weed inter','Reza Mohmadali-Nejad and Seyyed Gholamreza Moosavi (2015). Evaluation of Weeds Interference Period on Yield and some Traits of new Varieties of Safflower in Birjand .Biological Forum â€“ An International Journal 7(1): 1485-1489 .'),(4339,'117','Dye Removing from Industrial Wastewater by Advanced Oxidation Process','M. Deilami and N. Fallah','234 M. DEILAMI @ EDRIS.pdf','',1,'The use of TiO2 and Zeolite-Y as photo catalytic systems was investigated for adsorption and removal of methylene blue from aqueous solutions. As first step, the effect of pH, time and initial concentrations of methylene blue were studied in absence of ultra violet irradiation. Langmuir and fruendlich isotherms, first and second order kinetics were used to describe the adsorption process which occurred in absence of UV irradiation. Langmuir isotherm and second order kinetics found to best describe the process. Adsorption was best done at pH=8 for both catalysts and the process were completed in first 30 minutes to reach the equilibrium concentration. Maximum amount of methylene blue which can deposit on the surface of catalyst was found to be 294.11 mg/g and 156.25 mg/g for TiO2 and Zeolite-Y, respectively. Also the results showed that aeration of solutions had reverse effect on adsorption.\r\nUltraviolet irradiation started just after reaching to equilibrium in adsorption process. This ','Methylene blue color, Photo catalytic, Titanium dioxide, Zeolite-Y, Adsorption','In this study, TiO2 and Zeolite-Y, were used for the removal of dyes from aqueous solution of Methylene blue. Although the quantity of Methylene blue, in different conditions, as surface Adsorption, Adsorption occurs on the matter, but this is not enough for the amount of the concentrated solution, and other factors must be used to improve color removal of contaminants from water. As this study shows, ultraviolet radiation, is able to improve the efficiency of color removal, but increased the efficiency of aeration. To insist on the air, we should remember that, as stated, to prevent the return of photo catalyst conduction band electrons agitated by an external factor such as molecular oxygen, is very important, therefore, the oxygen molecules act is an efficient electron acceptor, and superoxide anion radical as it constitutes a before returning electrons, the radical, the reaction of the \r\ncation produces H + radical HO2. This justifies the increased removal of Methylene blue in acid','After the industrial revolution, a wide range of pollutants, including aromatic pollutants, have entered the environment, some of these compounds, such as halogenated aromatic and nitro-aromatics, are as xenobiotic compounds to the environment, as a foreign agent. Synthetic dyes, especially Reactive Dyes are considered among the substances that enter the environment as a polluter of nature, along with industrial wastewater treatment plants, and cause pollution in natural ecosystems, such as soil and water, and by which organisms live. After that, man discovered the dye industry in the mid-nineteenth century to the end of the twentieth century, 10,000 of synthetic dyes, with a quantity of more than 105 Ã— 7 Ton presented to the market, which are frequently used in various industries, such as leather, paper and textile industries. Approximately 2% of the colors produced in the manufacturing process, are released directly, and 20% said they would remain in the effluent, textile dyeing pro','M. Deilami and N. Fallah (2015). Dye Removing from Industrial Wastewater by Advanced Oxidation Process .Biological Forum â€“ An International Journal 7(1): 1490-1498 .'),(4340,'117','Diversity of Dragonflies (Insecta: Odonata) in some Parts of Murtizapur Taluka of Akola District, Maharashtra','A.P. Charjan, R.S. Virani and V.G. Thakare','235 A.P. CHARJAN, R.S. VIRANI AND V.G. THAKARE.pdf','',1,'Diversity of adult dragonflies in some part of Murtizapur taluka of Akola district was studied for a period of near about one year. In our study 19 species of dragonflies belonging to 2 families and 10 genera were recorded. Under order Odonata and suborder Anisoptera 18 species belonging to family Libellulidae and only 1 species belonging to Gomphidae family were recorded. Odonates can help to control small insects like mosquitoes and hence their conservation is of importance','Diversity, Dragonflies, Akola District, Odonata','Diversity of adult dragonflies in some part of Murtizapur taluka of Akola district was studied for a period of near about one year. In our study 19 species of dragonflies belonging to 2 families and 10 genera were recorded. Under order Odonata and suborder Anisoptera 18 species belonging to family Libellulidae and only 1 species belonging to Gomphidae family were recorded. Odonates can help to control small insects like mosquitoes and hence their conservation is of importance','Changes in aquatic plant communities, such as plant removal to ease boat passage, mowing of shoreline vegetation or introduction of exotic species, reduces the quality of odonata habitat. Because odonates play important ecological roles as both predators and prey, loss of odonata species could have a ripple effect (known in ecology as a trophic cascade) on terrestrial and aquatic food webs (Remsburg, 2009).\r\nDragonflies are generalists, that is, they eat whatever suitable prey is abundant. Oftentimes, they hunt in groups where large numbers of termites or ants are flying, or near swarms of mayflies, caddisflies, or gnats. According to most studies, the main diet of adult odonates consists of small insects, especially Dipterans (flies). Maturing dragonfly larvae feed very intensively, as do females when developing their eggs. Studies show that food shortage may limit reproductive behavior. Dragonflies do not hunt in cold weather. \r\nThough dragonflies are predators, they themselves mu','A.P. Charjan, R.S. Virani and V.G. Thakare (2015). Diversity of Dragonflies (Insecta: Odonata) in some Parts of Murtizapur Taluka of Akola District, Maharashtra .Biological Forum â€“ An International Journal 7(1): 1499-1501 .'),(4341,'117','The Effect of Methanol Foliar Application on the Tolerance of Sugar Beet Cultivars to Drought Stress','Soltanmorad Khazaei, Dariush Fathollah Taleghani and Hossein Hassanpour Darvishi','236 DARIUSH FATHOLLAH TALEGHANI.pdf','',1,'This experiment was conducted in 2013 at fields of the Research Institute of Sugar Beet, Karaj, Iran, to study the effect of drought stress and methanol foliar application on sugar beet cultivars. The experiment was conducted in split plot factorial in the form of a randomized complete block design with four replications and three factors: (1) irrigation in two levels (irrigation after 90 mm and 200 mm evaporation from the A class pan), (2) foliar application of methanol in two levels (0 and 20% of volume percentage), and (3) sugar beet cultivars in six levels (Gadouk, 5RR-87HSF.33, Fd 415, Pars, Sbsi 016 and Brigita). The measured traits included: root yield, sugar content, white sugar yield, Na, K and N concentration. Analysis of variance indicated the significant effect of drought stress on root yield, sugar content and N content. Foliar application of methanol had no significant effect on any of the measured traits. Moreover, all measured traits were significantly different among d','Î±-amino N, potassium, sodium, white sugar yield','This experiment was conducted in 2013 at fields of the Research Institute of Sugar Beet, Karaj, Iran, to study the effect of drought stress and methanol foliar application on sugar beet cultivars. The experiment was conducted in split plot factorial in the form of a randomized complete block design with four replications and three factors: (1) irrigation in two levels (irrigation after 90 mm and 200 mm evaporation from the A class pan), (2) foliar application of methanol in two levels (0 and 20% of volume percentage), and (3) sugar beet cultivars in six levels (Gadouk, 5RR-87HSF.33, Fd 415, Pars, Sbsi 016 and Brigita). The measured traits included: root yield, sugar content, white sugar yield, Na, K and N concentration. Analysis of variance indicated the significant effect of drought stress on root yield, sugar content and N content. Foliar application of methanol had no significant effect on any of the measured traits. Moreover, all measured traits were significantly different among d','Sugar beet production is an essential component of agricultural economics in many countries. Sugar beet cultivation was first developed in Europe about 200 years ago, in order to reduce the import of sugar to Europe from other parts of the world. Sugar beet contributes to about 40% of world sugar production and is the main source of sugar production in many countries. Sugar beet is not only important for sugar production, but it is a beneficial crop in agronomic rotation and is used in industries and human and livestock food production. Each tone of sugar beet yield has 9-14 kg molasses which contains 20% water, 60% carbohydrates, 10% ash and 10% protein (Cooke and Scott, 1993; Pakniat, 1899).\r\nWater plays important role in plants and in some plant organs it contributes to 90% of the weight. It is required for all plant processes; reduction of available water affects plant physiological and biochemical processes (Koochaki et al., 1996). The primary effect of drought stress on plants is','Soltanmorad Khazaei, Dariush Fathollah Taleghani and Hossein Hassanpour Darvishi (2015). The Effect of Methanol Foliar Application on the Tolerance of Sugar Beet Cultivars to Drought Stress .Biological Forum â€“ An International Journal 7(1): 1502-1507 .'),(4342,'117','Effect of Bio-fertilizers and Manure Fertilizer on Properties Agronomy of Lemon Balm (Mellisa officinalis)','Reza Tahmasebi Omran, Hormoz Fallah Amoli and Yousef Niknejad','237 HORMOZ FALAH AMOLI.pdf','',1,'In order to study the effects of organic fertilizers and biological growth characteristics, and quantitative and qualitative performance lemon balm herbs factorial experiment in a randomized complete block design with 12 treatments and 3 replications has done in the 2015 crop year in Mahmud Abad city in the Mazandaran province. The first factor in the 3 levels of use of sheep manure at 5 and 10 tonnes per hectare and control, the second factor at four levels of bacteria Azotobacter and Bacillus respectively from the strains (chrococcum and pobilis), combining bacteria and consumption respectively.\r\nThe results showed that the use of biological fertilizers and manure fertilizers to plant height, canopy size, number of tillers, leaf length, total dry matter than the control treatment and the most effective combination of sheep manure and bacteria to increase yield were studied. Sheep manure and bacteria interactions revealed that the highest elevation in the treatment of bacteria with an','sheep manure, bacteria growth, yield components, lemon balm','In the end, it can be concluded that using a larger amount of manure (10 tons) with integrated fertilizer biological Azotobacter and Bacillus can be higher performance achieved and also due to the increase in product quality, environmental protection and public health importance the use of livestock manure and bacteria is more appropriate.','The use of organic fertilizers and feed microorganisms of these substances, leading to the rapid proliferation and increase of organic matter decomposition process to accelerate (Yan and Zhou, 2002). Accelerate the decomposition of organic matter, to speed up the release of minerals for plants and soil system and The plants absorb these substances, to improve growth and better performance is achieved. The best alternative to chemical fertilizers and animal manure can have significant effects in improving soil physical and chemical properties and further increase soil organic matter, improve soil structure and microbial activity are followed (Tohidlou, 2001).The use of organic and chemical fertilizers to improve productivity and increase the yield and quality of tomato plants as well as increased storage properties (Ghorbani, et al., 2008). Jowkar et al (2013) demonstrated the use of synthetic fertilizers and biological treatments have significant effects on height, number of branches, ','Reza Tahmasebi Omran, Hormoz Fallah Amoli and Yousef Niknejad (2015). Effect of Bio-fertilizers and Manure Fertilizer on Properties Agronomy of Lemon Balm (Mellisa officinalis) .Biological Forum â€“ An International Journal 7(1): 1508-1511 .'),(4343,'117','Relationships of Morphological Characters and Yield Components in Corn Hybrids under Water Deficit Stress','Jamileh Seyedzavar, Majid Norouzi and Saeid Aharizad','238 JAMILEH SEYEDZAVAR.pdf','',1,'A split plot experiment (using RCB design) with four replications was conducted, in order to evaluate the response of some corn hybrids to water stress at field during 2010. Main plots included three different irrigation treatments (Non-water stress, Middle-water stress and Severe-water stress) and sub plots included 14 corn hybrids. In this study correlation, regression, path and principal components analysis were carried out to decide correlations among the agronomic traits and their contributions to seed yield per plant in some new corn hybrids. Correlation analysis indicated that there was the most significant and positive correlation between grain yield and row number per ear, grain number per row, ear height and plant height at the average of irrigation treatments. The results of stepwise regression and path analysis for grain yield revealed that row number per ear, 300 grain weight, grain number per row and number of leaves made 78 percent of the grain yield variation. The row n','Corn, Factor analysis, Path analysis, Water deficit stress ','In the present study, grain yield had a positive-significant correlation with plant height, ear length, number of rows per ear, number of seeds per row and number of leaves per plant. Number of rows per ear had the highest correlation with grain yield. Multiple regression analyses determined that number of row per ear, 300-grain weight, number of grain per row and Number of leaves per plant explained 83% of the variance in yield standard deviation. Path coefficients in water stress condition revealed that number of row per ear had highest direct effect (0.458) on total yield. Based on principal components analysis two first components justified 78% of the variations between data expressed by two components. By attention to identity of justified traits by each one of the factors, the first factor was called as the morphological-growth characteristics and the second factor was called as the application factor. Hybrids SC706, SC670, K166 Ã— K18, DC370 and K48 Ã— K19 had high growth and yi','Plants are constantly challenged with numerous environmental stresses, both biotic and abiotic. To survive under such conditions, plants have evolved a variety of mechanisms to perceive external stimuli and to transduce the stress signal for activation of the optimal response to each type of stress. A coordinated regulation of plant response requires crosstalk between pathways that are initiated by external cues and orchestrated through a complex network of signaling pathways. There is compelling evidence that stress-responsive genes such as transcription factors or kinases might function in multiple pathways and also facilitate crosstalk between different stress signaling pathways (Quilis et al., 2008; Saibo et al., 2009). Limited water availability impairs plant growth and is one of the main issues of future climate changes (Ciais et al., 2005; Loreto and Centritto, 2008). Because drought is a common occurrence in many environments, many perennial plant species have developed mechani','Jamileh Seyedzavar, Majid Norouzi and Saeid Aharizad (2015). Relationships of Morphological Characters and Yield Components in Corn Hybrids under Water Deficit Stress .Biological Forum â€“ An International Journal 7(1): 1512-1519 .'),(4344,'117','Effects of Allelopathic three Medicinal Plants on Germination and Seeding Growth of Portulaca oleracea','Maryam Rahimi, Fatemeh Bidarnamani and Mehdi Shabanipoor','239 FATEMEH BIDARNAMANI-1.pdf','',1,'The use of plants allelopatic properties is one of the methods of weeds control against each other which nowadays is performed vast research about that. In this research, the effect of essential oils as medical plants Artemisia annua L., Rosmarinus officinalis L. and Lavandula vera L. with 5 level (0, 250, 500, 750, 1000ppm) was evaluated on weeds of Cynodon dactylon L. Result indicated different concentration essential oils plants Artemisia annua L., Rosmarinus officinalis L. and Lavandula vera L. had strong reduce in germination rate, Radicle length and plumule length weed. The highest concentration (1000ppm) essential oil of Artemisia annua L., Rosmarinus officinalis L. and Lavandula vera L. lead to germination deterrency, with 81, 76 and 64 respectively. The low concentration essential oil Artemisia annua with 8 respectively reduce germination. It was concluded that Artemisia annua has strong allelopatic to control germination and seeding weed it can be used as a herbicide in organ','Portulaca oleracea, essential oil, allelopatic, germination, weed','The use of plants allelopatic properties is one of the methods of weeds control against each other which nowadays is performed vast research about that. In this research, the effect of essential oils as medical plants Artemisia annua L., Rosmarinus officinalis L. and Lavandula vera L. with 5 level (0, 250, 500, 750, 1000ppm) was evaluated on weeds of Cynodon dactylon L. Result indicated different concentration essential oils plants Artemisia annua L., Rosmarinus officinalis L. and Lavandula vera L. had strong reduce in germination rate, Radicle length and plumule length weed. The highest concentration (1000ppm) essential oil of Artemisia annua L., Rosmarinus officinalis L. and Lavandula vera L. lead to germination deterrency, with 81, 76 and 64 respectively. The low concentration essential oil Artemisia annua with 8 respectively reduce germination. It was concluded that Artemisia annua has strong allelopatic to control germination and seeding weed it can be used as a herbicide in organ','Weeds are unwanted plants in a variety of human activities interact with the environment, agriculture and human habitats have adaptedand the most important threats to the cultivation and development of crops that fight weeds, was one of the most important steps in Agriculture(Quaswmand Foy, 2001). Allelopathy is defined as direct or indirect interaction, whereby chemicals and their breakdown metabolites released by one plant or organism influence the physiological processes of another neighboring plants and/or organisms (Molisch, 1937; Rice, 1984; Challa and Ravindra, 1998). Allelochemical combination playnumerous physiological and biochemical processes such as transitive and germination inhibition, inhibition of cell division and elongation, Gibberellin and auxin-induced growth inhibition, inhibition of respiration and photosynthesis, stomatal inhibition, inhibition of protein synthesis and hemoglobin, changes in membrane permeability and inhibition of enzyme activity (Narval, 1996).\r','Maryam Rahimi, Fatemeh Bidarnamani and Mehdi Shabanipoor (2015). Effects of Allelopathic three Medicinal Plants on Germination and Seeding Growth of Portulaca oleracea .Biological Forum â€“ An International Journal 7(1): 1520-1523 .'),(4345,'117','Effect of Different Plant Density on Growth and Yield of Three Cultivars of Sesame (Sesamum indicum L.)','Seyede Roghaye Hosseini Valiki, Sobhanallah Ghanbari, Sajedeh Golmohammadzadeh and Karim Riahi Kiasari\r\n','240 SEYEDE ROGHAYE HOSSEINI VALIKI.pdf','',1,'Sesame is one of the oldest and most important oil seed crop. Field experiment was carried out to investigate the effect of plant density on growth and yield of three cultivar of sesame (Sesamum indicum L.). This research conducted at field of Agricultural Training School in Sari, 2013. Three cultivars of sesame (Naz, Yekta and Oltan) were assigned to the main plots and row spacing (40, 50 and 60 cm) were assigned to the subplots with 4replications. The results showed that cultivar treatments significantly effect on traits such as, plant height, the number of capsule per plant, yield per plant, harvest index, seed oil percentage, seed yield, seed protein percentage and protein yield. Plant density had significantly effect on plant height, seed yield per plant and the number of seed per plant. Also, the results indicated that Yekta cultivar as parameters such as, plant height, the number of capsule per plant, the number of seed per capsule, seed yield, oil yield and protein yield was th','Sesame (Sesamum indicum L.), Cultivars, Growth, Oil yield','Sesame is one of the oldest and most important oil seed crop. Field experiment was carried out to investigate the effect of plant density on growth and yield of three cultivar of sesame (Sesamum indicum L.). This research conducted at field of Agricultural Training School in Sari, 2013. Three cultivars of sesame (Naz, Yekta and Oltan) were assigned to the main plots and row spacing (40, 50 and 60 cm) were assigned to the subplots with 4replications. The results showed that cultivar treatments significantly effect on traits such as, plant height, the number of capsule per plant, yield per plant, harvest index, seed oil percentage, seed yield, seed protein percentage and protein yield. Plant density had significantly effect on plant height, seed yield per plant and the number of seed per plant. Also, the results indicated that Yekta cultivar as parameters such as, plant height, the number of capsule per plant, the number of seed per capsule, seed yield, oil yield and protein yield was th','Sesame (Sesamum indicum L.) from Pedaliaeace family is an oil seed crop that has been grown since ancient times. Sesame seed has the highest oil content of any seed. It grows well in tropical and subtropical areas, while its yield performance is relatively high in temperate climate (Alegbejo et al., 2003). Sesame is not only an oil-rich seed (42-45%) but also in protein (20%) and carbohydrates (14-20%). Also sesame seeds contain 50-60% oil which has excellent stability due to the presence of the endogenous antioxidants sesamol and sesaminol in combination with tocopherols (Ball et al., 2000).In Iran near to 34 thousands hectare were allocared to sesame with 25 thousand kilograms of seed production and 729 kilograms per hectare mean yield. In Mazandaran province because of the diversity of cultures, sesame as the main crop in the spring or in intercropping with cotton in the spring, as well as a second crop after harvest grain crops are grown. \r\nThe crop is grown under a range of enviro','Seyede Roghaye Hosseini Valiki, Sobhanallah Ghanbari, Sajedeh Golmohammadzadeh and Karim Riahi Kiasari (2015). Effect of Different Plant Density on Growth and Yield of Three Cultivars of Sesame (Sesamum indicum L.) .Biological Forum â€“ An International J'),(4346,'117','Response of some Maize Hybrids to Water Stress at Pollination Phase','Jamileh Seyedzavar and Amir Fayaz Moghadam','241 JAMILEH SEYEDZAVAR-2.pdf','',1,'In order to evaluation the response of some maize hybrids to water deficit stress, a field experiment in 2010 with maize hybrids was conducted using a split-plot plan with complete randomized block design in four replications at the agricultural research station, university of Tabriz (Khalatpoushan). Main plots included three different irrigation regimes (Non-Stress, Milddle-stress and Severe-stress) and sub plots included 14 maize hybrids. Results showed significant differences among hybrids and irrigation regimes for all studied traits. Analysis of variance revealed significant differences between Hybrids and also irrigation levels for all traits. In the present study, grain yield had a positive-significant correlation with number of tassel branches and number of leaves per ear. This research suggests that there is considerable variation among studied hybrids in water stress at pollination stage. Since anthesis was found as the highest sensitive stage to water stress, to avoid high g','water stress, pollination stage, maize, grain yield','According to the results of this research deficit irrigation based on 80% of full corn water requirement could be recommended under dry year\'s condition with lower grain yield reduction. Since anthesis was found as the highest sensitive stage to water stress, to avoid high grain yield reduction, favorable soil water condition must be provided in irrigation schedule.','Corn (Zea mays L.) is one of the important cereal crops in the world and Iran after wheat and rice (Alvi et al., 2003; Gerpacio and Pingali, 2007). Maize crop plays an important role in the world economy and is valuable ingredient in manufactured items that affect a large proportion of the world population (Alvi et al., 2003).\r\nCorn is produced primarily for animal feed and industrial uses and it is portioned as follow; about 35% for human nutrient requirement and about 65% for animal feed (Kusaksiz, 2010). Corn is used as food and feed for livestock and meets the requirements of material in different industries such as food, medicine and textile (Ali et al., 2011).\r\nSelection is a widely used and successful method in plant breeding. Response to selection depends on many factors such as the interrelationship of the characters. Plant breeders work with some yield components related to yield in the selection programs and it is very important to determine relative importance of such chara','Jamileh Seyedzavar and Amir Fayaz Moghadam (2015). Response of some Maize Hybrids to Water Stress at Pollination Phase .Biological Forum â€“ An International Journal 7(1): 1529-1536 .'),(4347,'117','Effects of Allelopathic three Medicinal Plants on Germination and Seeding Growth of Cynodon dactylon (L.)Pers.','Fatemeh Bidarnamani, Maryam Rahimi and Mehdi Shabanipoor','242 FATEMEH BIDARNAMANI-2.pdf','',1,'The use of plants allelopathic properties is one of the methods of weeds control against each other which nowadays is performed vast research about that. As regards being weeds in stable agriculture is caused destruction of soil and pollution of underground waters. As one of the biological control methods, allelophaty could have considerable effect in agriculture ecosystem. In this research, the effect of essential oils as medical plants Artemisia annua L., Rosmarinus officinalis L. and Lavandula vera L. with 5 level (0, 250, 500, 750, 1000ppm) was evaluated on weeds of Cynodon dactylon L. Result indicated different concentration essential oils plants Artemisia annua L., Rosmarinus officinalis L. and Lavandula vera L. had strong reduce in germination rate, Radicle length and plumule length weed. The highest concentration (1000ppm) essential oil of Artemisia annua L., Rosmarinus officinalis L. and Lavandula vera L. lead to germination deterrence, with 100, 94, 88 respectively. The low','Cynodon dactylon, essential oil, allelopathic, germination, weed','The use of plants allelopathic properties is one of the methods of weeds control against each other which nowadays is performed vast research about that. As regards being weeds in stable agriculture is caused destruction of soil and pollution of underground waters. As one of the biological control methods, allelophaty could have considerable effect in agriculture ecosystem. In this research, the effect of essential oils as medical plants Artemisia annua L., Rosmarinus officinalis L. and Lavandula vera L. with 5 level (0, 250, 500, 750, 1000ppm) was evaluated on weeds of Cynodon dactylon L. Result indicated different concentration essential oils plants Artemisia annua L., Rosmarinus officinalis L. and Lavandula vera L. had strong reduce in germination rate, Radicle length and plumule length weed. The highest concentration (1000ppm) essential oil of Artemisia annua L., Rosmarinus officinalis L. and Lavandula vera L. lead to germination deterrence, with 100, 94, 88 respectively. The low','Weeds are unwanted plants in a variety of human activities interact with the environment, agriculture and human habitats, have adapted And the most important threats to the cultivation and development of crops that fight weeds, was one of the most important steps in Agriculture(Qasem and Foy, 2001).\r\nThe use of chemical pesticides to combat weeds is the most widespread method. But reduced crop quality, high cost of weed control, environmental risks and increased weed resistance to herbicides Show the need for alternative methods such as the use of biological and chemical methods is the next crop (Hejazi, 1379).\r\nAllelophaty (allelopathic) was first raised in 1973 by Hans Mulish plant physiologist. Rice allelophaty define the effects of microorganisms on other plants that occur through the release ofallelo-chemical substances into the environment (Rice, 1984).\r\nAllelochemical combination of physiological and biochemical processes such as transitive and germination inhibition, inhibition','Fatemeh Bidarnamani, Maryam Rahimi and Mehdi Shabanipoor (2015). Effects of Allelopathic three Medicinal Plants on Germination and Seeding Growth of Cynodon dactylon (L.)Pers. Biological Forum â€“ An International Journal 7(1): 1537-1541 .'),(4348,'117','Bioinformatics Analysis of DGAT1 Gene in Domestic Ruminnants','Sirous Eydivandi','243 SIROUS EYDIVANDI.pdf','',1,'Diacylglycerol-O-acyltransferase (DGAT1) gene encodes diacylglyceroltransferase enzyme that playsan important role in glycerol lipid metabolism. DGAT1 is considered to be the key enzyme in controlling the synthesis of triglycerides in adipocytes. This enzyme catalyzes the final step of triglyceride synthesis (transform triacylglycerol (DAG) into triacylglycerol (TAG). A total of 20 DGAT1(8,9Exones) gene sequences belonging to 5 species include cattle(Bos Taurus and BosIndicus), Goats, Sheep and Buffalo were analyzed, and the differentiation within and among the species was also studied.. The length of the Exone 8 and Exone 9 respectively were 75bp and 64bp (total: 139bp). Observed genetic diversity was higher among species than within species, and Bos Taurus had more polymorphisms than any other species. Novel amino acid variation sites were detected within several species which might be used to illustrate the functional variation. Differentiation of the DGAT1 gene was obvious amo','DGAT1gene,Bioinformatic, Ruminnants','Diacylglycerol-O-acyltransferase (DGAT1) gene encodes diacylglyceroltransferase enzyme that playsan important role in glycerol lipid metabolism. DGAT1 is considered to be the key enzyme in controlling the synthesis of triglycerides in adipocytes. This enzyme catalyzes the final step of triglyceride synthesis (transform triacylglycerol (DAG) into triacylglycerol (TAG). A total of 20 DGAT1(8,9Exones) gene sequences belonging to 5 species include cattle(Bos Taurus and BosIndicus), Goats, Sheep and Buffalo were analyzed, and the differentiation within and among the species was also studied.. The length of the Exone 8 and Exone 9 respectively were 75bp and 64bp (total: 139bp). Observed genetic diversity was higher among species than within species, and Bos Taurus had more polymorphisms than any other species. Novel amino acid variation sites were detected within several species which might be used to illustrate the functional variation. Differentiation of the DGAT1 gene was obvious amo','Bioinformatics has become an important part of many areas of biology. In experimental molecular biology, bioinformatics techniques such as image and signal processing allow extraction of useful results from large amounts of raw data. In the field of genetics and genomics, it aids in sequencing and annotating genomes and therefore we can observe polymorphic sites, Gene Expressions. Similarities and differences between and within gene sequences in the varies Species and etc. on the other hands gene mapping research has led to the discovery of many polymorphic sites throughout the Ruminantsgenome that can serve as genetic markers for selection in breeding schemes (Jing-Fen K.et al., 2008).\r\nDiacylglycerolacyltransferases (DGATs) are involved in the process of catalyzation of the final step of the triacylglycerol (TAG ) biosynthesis (Hatzopoulos et al., 2011). This enzyme has been found to be encoded by two genes (DGAT1 and DGAT2),','Sirous Eydivandi (2015). Bioinformatics Analysis of DGAT1 Gene in Domestic Ruminnants .Biological Forum â€“ An International Journal 7(1): 1542-1545 .'),(4349,'117','Study of Environmental Education on Environmental Knowledge of preschool age Children in Rasht City, Iran','Hasan Karimzadegan','244 HASAN KARIMZADEGAN.pdf','',1,'The current study survey Environmental Education on Environmental Knowledge of preschool age Children in Rasht City. The shaping of attitude and values, needed commitments and skills for preserving and protecting environment of individuals begins at an early age. Children as young as pre-school age should be involved. At this age they are very susceptible to the influence of teachers and other people. The current exploratory study examined the effectiveness of a pilot environmental education program, for increasing environmental knowledge and increasing positive environmental perceptions in kindergarten children. The sample of the study is comprised of 104 preschool age children living in Rasht city, Iran. Children were individually interviewed before and after the program to assess changes in their environmental knowledge. Three kindergarten classrooms were randomly assigned to receive the program and three were exposed to story time not related to environmental education. The intervi','preschool, Environmental education, Environmental Knowledge, Rasht city','This study show that the shaping of attitude and values, needed commitments and skills for preserving and protecting environment of individuals begins at an early age. Also environmental knowledge increased with significance for boys in the experimental group with a medium effect size, compared to no significant change for girls or boys in the control group towards environmental issues. Forming environmental knowledge and environmental perceptions beginning from early years is a key way of dealing with environmental problems of twenty first century (Biriukova, 2005; Nikolaeva, 2008). The current study was intended to investigate the effectiveness of a short environmental education program on improving young children\'s knowledge and encouraging environmental behavior.\r\nThe results is inconsistent with existing environmental education research with young children such as Gulay et al. (2010) and Hadzigeorgiou et al. (2011) who found effectiveness of single-topic environmental education p','This study survey Environmental Education on Environmental Knowledge of preschool age Children in Rasht city, Iran. Almost all kindergartens of Iran are houses that have converted to kindergarten by the least changes and for arranging the space in them, mural paintings have been considerable used. All educational experts agreed whit this point that pictures have kind of potential ability for playing the role in education .Iran\'s environmental crisis is considered the most severe worldwide (World Bank, 2011). Environmental concerns such as climate change, water shortages, air pollution, and energy crises are currently foci of international attention (United Nations, 2012; World Watch Institute, 2011). A substantial portion of Iran\'s existing environmental problems stems from a lack of awareness and poor cultural perspectives on the interactions of humans and nature. In fact, it is a kind of cultural problem. Thus, national and international impetus is required to support environment co','Hasan Karimzadegan (2015). Study of Environmental Education on Environmental Knowledge of preschool age Children in Rasht City, Iran .Biological Forum â€“ An International Journal 7(1): 1546-1551 .'),(4350,'117','The study of antibiotic resistance in Escherichia coli infections with an emphasis on the strains of ESBL','Behzad Bijani, Somayeh Rahimzadeh, Mina Asefzadeh and Hassan Jahani Hashemi','245 SOMAYEH RAHIMZADEH.pdf','',1,'Urinary tract infection is the second most common infection in the society and the major cause of the patients going to the hospital. The present study has been done aimed to determine the results of culture and the amount of antibiotic susceptibility in urinary tract infections. In this study, all the cases of urinary tract infection with positive cultures in admitted patients in general and infectious disease and ICU sections at Bu Ali Sina Hospital, who were hospitalized in May 2013 to May 2014, were enrolled. Samples without pyuria and asymptomatic were excluded due to the high probability of infection. For all eligible persons, a pre-designed questionnaire included demographic and clinical data was completed by trained interviewer. 129 patients, including 72 women (55.8%) and 57 men (44.2%) were enrolled. Among the 129 samples collected, Escherichia coli (E. coli) was the most common organism which was obtained from sample of 75 patients (58.1%) and 17 cases (21.9%) obtained from ','Urinary tract infection, antibiotic susceptibility, Escherichia coli ,ESBL','Urinary tract infection is the second most common infection in the society and the major cause of the patients going to the hospital. The present study has been done aimed to determine the results of culture and the amount of antibiotic susceptibility in urinary tract infections. In this study, all the cases of urinary tract infection with positive cultures in admitted patients in general and infectious disease and ICU sections at Bu Ali Sina Hospital, who were hospitalized in May 2013 to May 2014, were enrolled. Samples without pyuria and asymptomatic were excluded due to the high probability of infection. For all eligible persons, a pre-designed questionnaire included demographic and clinical data was completed by trained interviewer. 129 patients, including 72 women (55.8%) and 57 men (44.2%) were enrolled. Among the 129 samples collected, Escherichia coli (E. coli) was the most common organism which was obtained from sample of 75 patients (58.1%) and 17 cases (21.9%) obtained from ','Urinary tract infections are the second most common infection in society and the reason for 2% visits to the general practitioners as well as one of the major causes of patients visiting hospital (Pace et al., 2004). The annual prevalence of these infections is about 1% and 11% in men and women, respectively. It is also anticipated that a minimum of 50% of women will experience a period of urinary tract infection during their lifetime. Urinary tract infections annually affect 150 million people worldwide and an annual cost of 6 billion dollar is spent on its treatment only in America (Gonzalez et al., 1999). About 65% to over 95% of urinary tract infections are created by a type of bacteria, namely Escherichia coli (E. coli). Hence the focus of most studies which have been done on the amount of antibiotic resistance in urinary tract infections have been on the same organism (Kahlmeter et al., 2000). There is a great difference between bacterial flora of the urine in patients with first','Behzad Bijani, Somayeh Rahimzadeh, Mina Asefzadeh and Hassan Jahani Hashemi (2015). The study of antibiotic resistance in Escherichia coli infections with an emphasis on the strains of ESBL .Biological Forum â€“ An International Journal 7(1): 1552-1555 .'),(4351,'117','Optimum Water Allocation between Irrigated and Rainfed Lands in different Climatic Conditions','Hadi Ramezani Etedali, Khaled Ahmadaali, Abdolmajid Liaghat, Masoud Parsinejad, Ali Reaz Tavakkoli and Behnam Ababaei\r\n','246 KHALED AHMADAALI-f.pdf','',1,'In this study, water allocation managements between irrigation and rainfed lands were surveyed in different climate conditions. The optimization model results in the Qazvin Plain indicated net benefit increased under new management in case of water conveyance from 2000, 4000, 6000, 8000 and 10000 meters in a climatically normal year to be 11.1, 13.5, 19.2, 16.6 and 15.8 percent, respectively, while in a wet year 9.0, 10.9, 17.0, 15.9 and 13.4 and in a dry year 8.05, 12.5, 16.1, 19.1 and 19.9, respectively. Barley was the best choice for deficit irrigation in three climate conditions. Depths of deficit irrigation were 20, 25 and 30 mm in the first decade of November and 50, 50 and 60 mm in the second decade of May in normal, wet and dry conditions. Also lentil was the first choice for supplementary irrigation. The best treatments for supplementary irrigation in lentil rainfed fields were 75 mm in the third decade of May in normal years, 75 mm in the second decade of May in wet years and','Deficit Irrigation, Irrigated lands, Qazvin plain, rainfed lands, Supplementary Irrigation, Water Allocation Management.','The results of this study revealed that using new management, total net income increases in rainfed and irrigated lands as compared with the conventional management. The increased values are 11.2, 13.5, 19.2, 16.6 and 15.8% in normal climatic condition, 9, 10.9, 17, 15.9 and 13.4% in wet climatic condition, and 8.1, 12.5, 16.1, 19.1 and 19.9% in dry climatic condition for the conveyance distances of 2000, 4000, 6000, 8000 and 10000m, respectively. Also, Results of Ramezani Etedali et al. (2013) showed that the total income was increased about 14%, if the saved water in irrigated lands is used for supplementary irrigation in rainfed lands in Kermanshah and Lorestan provinces of Iran. Also, under three different climatic conditions, barley is the only option for deficit irrigation in the lands of Qazvin irrigation and drainage network. The depths of deficit irrigation in barley lands and under normal, wet and dry climatic conditions are 20, 25 and 30mm in November_1 and 50, 50 and 60mm i','Many studies have been devoted to improve water and cropping pattern management in irrigated farming. Raju and Kumar (1999) and Singh et al. (2001) used linear programming (LP) to determine optimum cropping pattern for maximizing the goal function of total net income with a given volume of water. Mainuddin et al. (1997) developed a linear optimization model to determine optimum cropping pattern and used LINGO to solve it. Reca et al. (2001) developed a nonlinear programming model for optimum water allocation and changed the economic goal function into a linear problem using a discontinuous function. Carvallo et al. (1998) used MINOS to develop a nonlinear programming model and solved a similar problem. \r\nAmong the previous studies, many had focus on cropping pattern and optimum allocation of water and/or soil resources (Paudyal & Gupta 1990; Sethi et al., 2002) and some paid attention to simultaneous optimization of groundwater management (Sethi et al., 2006), surface water resources a','Hadi Ramezani Etedali, Khaled Ahmadaali, Abdolmajid Liaghat, Masoud Parsinejad, Ali Reaz Tavakkoli and Behnam Ababaei (2015). Optimum Water Allocation between Irrigated and Rainfed Lands in different Climatic Conditions .Biological Forum â€“ An Internatio'),(4352,'117','Broad Variation in Herbage Yield and Essential Oil Content Among Iranian Landraces of Dracocephalum moldavica','Seyedeh Fatemeh Borghei, Ali Azizi, Javad Hadian and Vahid Abdosi','247 ALI AZIZI.pdf','',1,'Dracocephalum moldavica L. (Moldavian Balm) is a medicinal plant with pharmacological and biological properties of interest and it is a commonly cultivated plant in North Western Iran. The varied bioactive constituents of Moldavian Balm have been adduced as a contributive factor for the sedative and carminative activity of the plant. The present study was carried out to assess the differences among Iranian landraces (cultivated populations) of Moldavian balm based on some horticultural traits. Seeds of seven populations were provided from different regions of North Western Iran, included in this category are: West Azerbaijan provinces (Naghadeh, Keshtiban, Topragh Ghalee, and Baghchajogh) and East Azerbaijan provinces (Hokm Abad, Jahangir and Shiraz valley). The seeds were cultivated in the field conditions in Hamedan province. Sixteen characters associated with horticultural traits were evaluated. Horticultural characteristics included plant height, stem diameter, leaf length, leaf wi','Dracocephalum moldavica L., Variation, herbage yield, essential oil','In conclusion, a significant variation was observed among 7 landraces of Dracocephalum moldavica L. based on horticultural traits, herbage yield and essential oil content. The present study is primarily for breeding programs and can be very useful for medicinal purposes of this plant. Consequently, Genetic diversity provides guidelines for the conservation, development, management and sustainable use of this species. ','The Moldavian balm (Dracocephalum moldavica L.), syn. Moldavian dragonhead is an annual, herbaceous essential oil producing, spicy and aromatic medicinal plant belonging to the Lamiaceae family, which reaches up to 80 cm in height (Dastmalchi et al., 2007; Maham et al, 2013). It is native to central Asia and it has been naturalized in Eastern and Central Europe. However, it has also been grown in China, Egypt, Mongolia, and the Himalayas, at altitudes up to 2700-3100 meters above sea level and originates from the Irano-Turanian phytogeographical area (Rechinger, 1982; Dastmalchi et al., 2007; El-Baky & El-Baroty, 2008). In the Iranian traditional medicine, Dracocephalum moldavica is known as â€œBadershboo and Turkish Melissaâ€ (Najafi et al, 2009; Horn et al, 2014). Due to its strong effects on the gastrointestinal system and other parts of the body, D. moldavica has traditionally been used for its culinary properties (as food ingredient) and herbal teas and \r\n\r\nherbal drugs for ','Seyedeh Fatemeh Borghei, Ali Azizi, Javad Hadian and Vahid Abdosi (2015). Broad Variation in Herbage Yield and Essential Oil Content Among Iranian Landraces of Dracocephalum moldavica .Biological Forum â€“ An International Journal 7(1): 1568-1574.'),(4353,'117','Effect of Bio-fertilizer on the Agronomic Characteristics of Livestock and Medicinal Herb (Echinacea purpurea)','Amir Mahmoud Jokar, Hormoz Fallah Amoli and Yousef Niknejad','248 HORMOZ FALLAH AMOLI.pdf','',1,'In order to study the effect of organic fertilizers and biological characteristics on the growth, yield and agronomic characteristics of medicinal plant Purple Coneflower in the cloud for factorial in a randomized complete block design, with three replications research farm, located in the city were carried out in the year 2014 Mahmoud Abad. Factor of organic fertilizers include manure application in three levels to the value of 5 and 10 tons per hectare and the lack of control or consumption, and bio-fertilizer on plots with four levels of bacteria, Pseudomonas putida, Azospirillum lipoferum Pseudomonas + Azospirillum and control. The results showed that the application of animal and biological fertilizers leads to increase in height, flower number, number of leaves, the size of the canopy, leaf dry weight, shoot weight, dry air and the flowers were compared to the control. Use a combination of two bacteria, along with 10 tons of manure consumption increased about 40 percent in compa','Manure growth stimulating bacteria, number of flowers, Purple Coneflower','In order to study the effect of organic fertilizers and biological characteristics on the growth, yield and agronomic characteristics of medicinal plant Purple Coneflower in the cloud for factorial in a randomized complete block design, with three replications research farm, located in the city were carried out in the year 2014 Mahmoud Abad. Factor of organic fertilizers include manure application in three levels to the value of 5 and 10 tons per hectare and the lack of control or consumption, and bio-fertilizer on plots with four levels of bacteria, Pseudomonas putida, Azospirillum lipoferum Pseudomonas + Azospirillum and control. The results showed that the application of animal and biological fertilizers leads to increase in height, flower number, number of leaves, the size of the canopy, leaf dry weight, shoot weight, dry air and the flowers were compared to the control. Use a combination of two bacteria, along with 10 tons of manure consumption increased about 40 percent in compa','Purple Coneflower Echinacea purpurea plant scientific name alfi and perennial Asteraceae from families of the order Asterales, kasani astral and zirkhanoadeh of is Asteroeideae (Ghasemi dehkordi 1991). One of the most important needs in the application of high-yield agricultural planning in order to ensure optimum quality and especially in the case of medicinal plants is to evaluate different systems of plant nutrition (Hassan Zadeh, 2001). Organic materials in addition to providing nutrients, the effects of different Specifications on soil productivity, especially on the physical characteristics of the soil are (Polo and Pedra, 2006). Application of biological agriculture is many fertilizers, but in the interest of history and science does not have much experience of such resources. Nowadays, due to the numerous environmental problems that the consumption of chemical fertilizers with procedures is the use of fertilizers is raised again in biological agriculture (Hag NIA, and sharifi 2','Amir Mahmoud Jokar, Hormoz Fallah Amoli and Yousef Niknejad (2015). Effect of Bio-fertilizer on the Agronomic Characteristics of Livestock and Medicinal Herb (Echinacea purpurea) .Biological Forum â€“ An International Journal 7(1): 1575-1579 .'),(4354,'117','Effects of Level and Type of Energy on the Plasma Lipid Components in Broiler Chickens','Amirhossein Aminafshar, Parvin Shawrang and Abolfazl Zarei','249 PARVIN SHAWRANG.pdf','',1,'In a completely randomized design, 600 Cobb male broiler chicks were divided into five treatment groups and four replicates involve 30 chicks per each. The effect of level and source of energy on the blood components were measured at the day 28 of age. Chicks were assigned to receive five different types of rations. Dietary treatments were: T1) as control, main energy come from corn and it was according to the standard catalog of Cobb, T2) main energy come from corn and it was 3 percent energy less than the Cobb nutritional requirements, T3) main energy come from corn and it was 6 percent energy lesser than the Cobb nutritional requirements, T4) main energy satisfied according to standard catalogue of Cobb and come from corn and lipid source and T5) main energy come from corn and lipid source and it prepare 3 percent energy more than the Cobb nutrient requirements. There was no significant difference among treatments in very low-density lipoprotein cholesterol (VLDL), while the signifi','Blood, Broiler chick, Energy level, Lipid components','In a completely randomized design, 600 Cobb male broiler chicks were divided into five treatment groups and four replicates involve 30 chicks per each. The effect of level and source of energy on the blood components were measured at the day 28 of age. Chicks were assigned to receive five different types of rations. Dietary treatments were: T1) as control, main energy come from corn and it was according to the standard catalog of Cobb, T2) main energy come from corn and it was 3 percent energy less than the Cobb nutritional requirements, T3) main energy come from corn and it was 6 percent energy lesser than the Cobb nutritional requirements, T4) main energy satisfied according to standard catalogue of Cobb and come from corn and lipid source and T5) main energy come from corn and lipid source and it prepare 3 percent energy more than the Cobb nutrient requirements. There was no significant difference among treatments in very low-density lipoprotein cholesterol (VLDL), while the signifi','The supplementation of lipids from vegetable sources in commercial broiler diets, as an economic means of predicting energy rich formulation, has been necessary to obtain recommended energy concentration and essential fatty acid (Newman et al., 2002). It was shown that, digestion of animals fat, which are rich in saturated fatty acid is difficult in digestion system of poultry in comparison with unsaturated vegetable oils (Dvorin et al., 1998; Zdunczyk et al., 2001). There is needed, a potential possibility of changing the profile of the fatty acids in the feed utilization, carcass quality and meat quality of poultry, by a suitable composition in the diets (Scaife et al., 1994; Dvorin et al., 1998;Viveros et al., 2009). Some of the oil sources are rich in elements such as long chain polyunsaturated fatty acid, which can change the proportion of the lipid constituents of the blood, in human and animals. \r\nAlso it is possible to control fatty acid profile in blood and meat of birds, by t','Amirhossein Aminafshar, Parvin Shawrang and Abolfazl Zarei (2015). Effects of Level and Type of Energy on the Plasma Lipid Components in Broiler ChickensBiological Forum â€“ An International Journal 7(1): 1580-1584'),(4355,'117','Comparison of the impact of bio-fertilizers on agronomic characteristics, livestock and medicinal Salvia officinalis','Seyed Javad Marashi, Yousef Niknejad and Hormoz Fallah Amoli','250 HORMOZ FALLAH AMOLI-F.pdf','',1,'In order to study the effect of stimulating the growth of bacteria and other fertilizer (PGPR) on yield and yield components of medicinal plant Salvia in the cloud for factorial in a randomized complete block design, with three replications in a garden of citrus trees with a height between 2014, 11 meters above sea level was carried out. The first factor in 3 levels include : manure 3 tons, 6 tons per hectare, the second factor control. 4 level include : Azospirillum, Pseudomonas, Azospirillum and Pseudomonas + control. The use of stimulus effect of bacteria fertilizer and other significant growth on increasing the length of root, leaf dry weight, shoot dry weight, shoot weight, root weight, air, has a number of tributaries. The interaction of the biological and organic fertilizer is also the root length and the number of branches except on a subsidiary of a significant positive impact on other traits was having. Based on the results of interaction most the length of the root and leaf ','Manure, bacteria growth, the number of tributaries, Salvia officinalis','In order to study the effect of stimulating the growth of bacteria and other fertilizer (PGPR) on yield and yield components of medicinal plant Salvia in the cloud for factorial in a randomized complete block design, with three replications in a garden of citrus trees with a height between 2014, 11 meters above sea level was carried out. The first factor in 3 levels include : manure 3 tons, 6 tons per hectare, the second factor control. 4 level include : Azospirillum, Pseudomonas, Azospirillum and Pseudomonas + control. The use of stimulus effect of bacteria fertilizer and other significant growth on increasing the length of root, leaf dry weight, shoot dry weight, shoot weight, root weight, air, has a number of tributaries. The interaction of the biological and organic fertilizer is also the root length and the number of branches except on a subsidiary of a significant positive impact on other traits was having. Based on the results of interaction most the length of the root and leaf ','Sage Salvia officinalis medicinal plant with the scientific name of the family Lamiaceae perennial plant, shrub and a height of 20-90 cm lower part of the wood and the upper part of the stem, square and covered with hairs is palpable.. This plant is native to the Northern Mediterranean regions and are grown in soils of both sides. (Shahrokhi, 1996). The use of animal manures, soil organic matter increase in addition increases the activity of the microorganisms and thus substantially improve the soil structure and the biological activity also bolsters the dogma in the soil and to rotate the food better and one of the factors of influence on increasing the plant\'s product, the appropriate feed of hospitalization that are located. (Tohidi et al, 2009). Research done in the last few decades has shown that the consumption of cattle manure increases the amount of organic material was soil (Naghavi et al, 2005; Zamani Bob gohari and et al, 2010; Yousefi, et al., 2007). The research showed t','Seyed Javad Marashi, Yousef Niknejad and Hormoz Fallah Amoli (2015). Comparison of the impact of bio-fertilizers on agronomic characteristics, livestock and medicinal Salvia officinalis .Biological Forum â€“ An International Journal 7(1): 1585-1588 .'),(4356,'117','Evaluation of Genetic Diversity in Bread Wheat using Genotype by Trait Biplot under Different Environmental Conditions','Ezatollah Farshadfar, Laila Akbari and Mehrnoosh Naseri','251 EZATOLLAH FARSHADFAR.pdf','',1,'In this study 19 landraces of bread wheat were tested in a randomized complete block design with three replications under two irrigated and rainfed conditions. The results of analysis of variance (ANOVA) showed significant differences for RWL, SPAD, SC, PI, and GY under both rainfed (GYS) and irrigated (GYP) conditions. Positive correlations among GYS, SC, Fv/Fm, PI, Chla, Chlb, Chlt, CAR, RWL and SPAD suggested that every one of these traits should be enough as a selection criterion in rainfed condition. Similarly, positive correlations among the traits GYP, RWL, SPAD, CAR, Chla was observed in irrigated condition. In contrast to rain-fed conditions, GYP vs. SC, Fv/Fm and PI were not correlated under irrigated condition. Based on GYS, genotype G11, followed by G13 and G8, performed well in rainfed condition, whereas genotype G9, followed by G2 and G13, performed well in irrigated condition.','Bread wheat, physiological traits, GT-biplot, rainfed and irrigated conditions.','In this study 19 landraces of bread wheat were tested in a randomized complete block design with three replications under two irrigated and rainfed conditions. The results of analysis of variance (ANOVA) showed significant differences for RWL, SPAD, SC, PI, and GY under both rainfed (GYS) and irrigated (GYP) conditions. Positive correlations among GYS, SC, Fv/Fm, PI, Chla, Chlb, Chlt, CAR, RWL and SPAD suggested that every one of these traits should be enough as a selection criterion in rainfed condition. Similarly, positive correlations among the traits GYP, RWL, SPAD, CAR, Chla was observed in irrigated condition. In contrast to rain-fed conditions, GYP vs. SC, Fv/Fm and PI were not correlated under irrigated condition. Based on GYS, genotype G11, followed by G13 and G8, performed well in rainfed condition, whereas genotype G9, followed by G2 and G13, performed well in irrigated condition. ','Wheat is the most important cereal crop in Iran, with a total area of 6.5 million ha. Rainfed wheat covers two-thirds of the total wheat area in Iran, but accounts for about one-third of the total wheat production (ICARDA, 2004). Improving grain yield is the major objective of wheat improvement programs in the highland areas of western Iran where the livelihood of poor farmers depends on successful wheat production (Mohammadi and Haghparast, 2011). Terminal drought which occurs during post-anthesis significantly reduces wheat grain yield (Simane et al., 1993). Due to decreasing rainfall and rising temperatures, the frequency of exposure to terminal drought is predicted to increase for dryland wheat growing regions (Saradadevi et al., 2014).\r\nA crucial aspect in all studies dedicated to drought tolerance is the assessment of the degree of drought tolerance of different genotypes. The relative yield performance of genotypes in drought stressed and favorable environments seems tobe a comm','Ezatollah Farshadfar, Laila Akbari and Mehrnoosh Naseri (2015). Evaluation of Genetic Diversity in Bread Wheat using Genotype by Trait Biplot under Different Environmental Conditions. Biological Forum â€“ An International Journal 7(1): 1589-1598 . '),(4357,'117','Cloning of rbcL region from Cicer arietinum L. for species specific plastidial vector','Somayeh Kalili Kolikand and Bahram Baghban Kohnehrouz','252 BAHRAM BAGHBAN KOHNEHROUZ.pdf','',1,'Chickpea is a good source of protein and carbohydrate among crop plants. There are some agronomic and economically important traits could be improved by transgenic and transplastomic research in this field crop. Despite the high yield potential of chickpea (over 4000 Kg.ha-1) transgenic breeding is going to develop new cultivars against biotic and abiotic stresses as well as modern industrial usages. To do this by transplastomic approach chickpea specific plastidial vector is an essential need which is pursued in this work. The nucleotide sequence of chickpea organellar genome of plastid was used for determining the rbcL regional to design specific primer set using on line Primer blast software. Total genomic DNA was extracted from seedling leaves and used for PCR reaction as template. Expected length of amplified rbcL fragment was confirmed by agarose gel electrophoresis. The fragment extracted from agarose gel (0.8 %) using the gel purification and extraction kits and used for the T','chickpea, Cicer arietinum L, cloning, plastidial vector, rbcL','Chickpea is a good source of protein and carbohydrate among crop plants. There are some agronomic and economically important traits could be improved by transgenic and transplastomic research in this field crop. Despite the high yield potential of chickpea (over 4000 Kg.ha-1) transgenic breeding is going to develop new cultivars against biotic and abiotic stresses as well as modern industrial usages. To do this by transplastomic approach chickpea specific plastidial vector is an essential need which is pursued in this work. The nucleotide sequence of chickpea organellar genome of plastid was used for determining the rbcL regional to design specific primer set using on line Primer blast software. Total genomic DNA was extracted from seedling leaves and used for PCR reaction as template. Expected length of amplified rbcL fragment was confirmed by agarose gel electrophoresis. The fragment extracted from agarose gel (0.8 %) using the gel purification and extraction kits and used for the T',' Chickpea (Cicer arietinum L.) is one of the oldest and most widely consumed legumes in the world due to relatively high protein content and wide adaptability as a food grain. It is the second most widely grown legume in the world (FAO, 2008). \r\n Its protein quality is better than other legumes such as pigeon pea, black gram and green gram. Chickpea has significant amounts of all the essential amino acids except sulfur containing types, which can be complemented by adding cereals to daily diet. Chickpea has several potential health benefits and in combination with other pulses and cereals, it could have beneficial effects on some of the important human diseases like cardiovascular, type 2 diabetes, digestive diseases and some cancers. Overall, chickpea is an important pulse crop with a diverse array of potential nutritional and health benefits (Kaur and Singh, 2005).\r\nThere is a growing demand for chickpea due to its nutritional value. In the semi-arid tropics chickpea is an important ','Somayeh Kalili Kolikand and Bahram Baghban Kohnehrouz (2015). Cloning of rbcL region from Cicer arietinum L. for species specific plastidial vector .Biological Forum â€“ An International Journal 7(1): 1599-1604.'),(4358,'117','The Role of Essences on Post-Harvest Life of Garden Products','Mehdi Dastyaran, Shahab Mirinejad and Mehdi Hosseini Farahi','253 MEHDI DASTYARAN.pdf','',1,'In recent years, the use of natural ingredients such as essences have been proposed as a new idea to control bacterial and fungal infections and reduced losses after the harvest of horticultural crops such as fruits, vegetables and flowers. Increasing interest in the use of natural ingredients instead of chemicals is due to health concerns in relation to the chemical composition and their adverse effects on human health and the environment. For this reason, efforts in the field of identification and discovery of natural compounds and their use in post-harvest technology for healthy horticultural crops are underway. Natural ingredients include a variety of aromatic compounds such as acetic acid, jasmonic acid, yeast, vegetable essence, chitosan, etc. In this paper, the essence group and their role in post-harvest of garden products in particular the fruit is discussed. Essences are natural colorless compounds composed of alcohol, aldehyde and ester which have their own smell and molecul','anti-fungal, Essence, post-harvest life.','The global approach today is toward organic agriculture. The system is trying to avoid factors with chemical origin. The adverse impact and residues of chemical fertilizers, pesticides, hormones, etc. in food products have caused agriculture move to avoid using any chemical or synthetic inputs (Malakouti, 2009). The use of vegetable essences for the control of postharvest diseases of fruits and vegetables has been proposed as an effective biological way in recent years and has secured the attention of many researchers as an effective and safe way. The use of essences can help reduce waste while providing product safety and health of the fruit (Pluto et al., 2003).\r\nGiven that the sensitivity of fungus species are different depending on the type of essence, its composition and its concentration, wider applied research shall be performed in this field and the results shall be put into practice.\r\n','anti-fungal, Essence, post-harvest life.\r\nchemical compounds can reduce the damages caused by pathological factors, the use of these compounds is limited day by day due to the side effects. Recently, non-chemical methods such as the use of gamma rays, ultraviolet light, heat treatment and the use of natural ingredients such as essences have been developed. Such operations are still in elementary stages and in early stages of research. Such strategies along with applying hygienic principles during the growth stage that effect the reduction of microbial growth can play an important role on reducing the damages caused by the invasion of pathogens (Hashemi Dezfuli and Meidani, 1997).\r\nAntibacterial properties of the essences and plant extracts have a long history dating back to 1881 AD. For this reason, in bioassay methods gram-positive and particularly gram-negative bacteria are used, because gram-negative bacteria due to having cell membrane inhibit the penetration of hydrophobic compoun','Mehdi Dastyaran, Shahab Mirinejad and Mehdi Hosseini Farahi (2015). The Role of Essences on Post-Harvest Life of Garden Products .Biological Forum â€“ An International Journal 7(1): 1605-1608 .'),(4359,'117','A study on the effect of weeds interference periods and plant density of on some traits of sesame (Sesamum indicum) and weeds in Birjand, Iran','Mahsa Bahador and Seyyed Gholamreza Moosavi','254 SEYYED GHOLAMREZA MOOSAVI.pdf','',1,'The effect of plant density and weeds interference duration was studied on some traits of sesame and weeds in the competition with each other in Birjand, Iran in a factorial experiment based on a Randomized Complete Block Design with three replications in 2013. The studied factors included weeds interference at five levels (weeds control or full control of weeds until the end of growing season, interference of weeds from 20, 40 and 60 days after emergence, and no weeds control in whole growing season) and sesame density at three levels (7, 14 and 28 plants m-2). Analysis of variance revealed that weeds interference period and sesame plant density significantly influenced sesame foliage and seed yield as well as narrow-leaf and broadleaf weeds population and dry weight, so that the commencement of weeds interference from 20, 40 and 60 days after sesame emergence and weeds interference in whole growing season decreased sesame foliage dry yield by 42.76, 27.58, 2.42 and 95.48% as compared','sesame, yield, interference, plant density, weed','It was found that the duration of weeds interference and sesame plant density were both important factors for the yield and competitiveness of weeds with sesame, that the lowest yield was obtained under the longest period of weeds interference and the lowest plant density, and that the most optimum yield was obtained at the highest density of sesame by controlling weeds and suppressing their interference and competition.','Oilseeds are one of the rich sources of energy and protein that form the second most important food resource of the world after grains. They are grown for the oil of their seeds. However, they are important for their invaluable protein whose residue is used for this protein after extracting their oil (Rashed Mohasel, 1992). The plants should be supplied with optimal amounts of factors affecting their growth and development - including water, nutrients, radiation and CO2 - for realizing their maximum yields (Carpenter, 1999). On the other hand, the adverse consequences of excessive application of herbicides have made the researchers look for alternative methods for suppressing weeds with reduced rates of herbicides (Serkar, 2000).\r\nPlant density is known as a management variable that can be exploited for adapting plants\' requirements with the availability of resources and environmental conditions (Smith and Hemel, 1998). Plant density is effectively involved in radiation interception by','Mahsa Bahador and Seyyed Gholamreza Moosavi (2015). A study on the effect of weeds interference periods and plant density of on some traits of sesame (Sesamum indicum) and weeds in Birjand, Iran .Biological Forum â€“ An International Journal 7(1): 1609-16'),(4360,'117','The effect of Gamma ray on baking properties of the bread wheat Roshan','Mohammad Reza Rahemi, Ahad Yamchi, Saeid Navabpour and Hasan Soltanloo','255 MOHAMMAD REZA RAHEMI.pdf','',1,'Wheat is known as a staple crop around the world. Roshan wheat cultivar is an elite variety with high cultivation in Iran, on which radiation has been done in order to access higher qualitative feature. After data collection of the tests Farinograph and Extensograph were implemented using physical and chemical features of wild type wheat and mutant line. The results suggest that line mutant in many traits related to the quality of baking is significantly improved. Comparing the qualitative figure of Farinograph shows a significant increase in the mutant line compared to the wild type due to the higher stability and less the dough softening in the mutant line. Extensograph result display that if the time for the rest of dough is extended from 45 to 135, maximum resistance to dough elasticity will also increase in mutant sample.','Roshan wheat, morphological, agricultural, mutant, Farinograph test, Extensograph test, chemical experiments','Wheat is known as a staple crop around the world. Roshan wheat cultivar is an elite variety with high cultivation in Iran, on which radiation has been done in order to access higher qualitative feature. After data collection of the tests Farinograph and Extensograph were implemented using physical and chemical features of wild type wheat and mutant line. The results suggest that line mutant in many traits related to the quality of baking is significantly improved. Comparing the qualitative figure of Farinograph shows a significant increase in the mutant line compared to the wild type due to the higher stability and less the dough softening in the mutant line. Extensograph result display that if the time for the rest of dough is extended from 45 to 135, maximum resistance to dough elasticity will also increase in mutant sample. ','Wheat is a strategic product among cereal around the world (Khodabandeh, 2005). There are different species of wheat and the most important type, Triticum aestivum is known as baking wheat. Wheat provides one fifth of calorie needed for maintenance of our body, besides it is the most essential food resources for one third of the population all around the world (Akbarnia and Azar-Abad, 2011). In Iran, approximately 6.5 million hectare of fields are under wheat cultivation (Jalal-Kamali and Duveiller, 2008). This explains the particular research focus on the wheat production in more than seven decades. Highlighting the importance of the quality of wheat in determining the final product characteristics, evaluation of physiochemical features of wheat is inevitable. Mangova and Rachovska (2004) found significant differences in quality and dough softening between fifteen hybrid radiation mutant lines and two chemically mutated lines. Quality index, softening of dough and energy for dough def','Mohammad Reza Rahemi, Ahad Yamchi, Saeid Navabpour and Hasan Soltanloo (2015). The effect of Gamma ray on baking properties of the bread wheat Roshan .Biological Forum â€“ An International Journal 7(1): 1616-1621.'),(4361,'117','Leakage at implant-abutment and subsequent implant mucositis: Literature review','Azra Mohiti and Foad Akhoondinasab','256 FOAD AKHOONDINASAB.pdf','',1,'Over the past decade, with the advent of modern standards in the control of sterility within the operating room environment and adequate protocols of peri-operative antibiotic prophylaxis, the incidence of infections associated to orthopedic implants has become very low. Also, insufficient bonding of implants to bone tissues and bacterial infections lead to the failure of orthopedic and dental implants. The difficult battle to prevent and fight bacterial infections associated to prosthetic materials must be played on different grounds. A winning strategy requires a clear view of the pathogenesis and the epidemiology of implant-related infections. A major concern with antibiotic prophylaxis is the possibility of contributing to the development and spread of antibiotic resistant organisms. So, the purpose of the present review was to describe importance of leakage at implant-abutment and subsequent implant mucositis. It is important to identify crucial factors in this phenomenon. In this','Microbial infections, Implant mucositis, Implant materials, Bone regeneration','Peri-implantitis caused by micro-organisms starts with inflammation of the mucosa surrounding the implant (mucositis), which is usually reversible. If left untreated, the inflammation spreads and results in vertical and horizontal bone loss and eventually in the loss of the implant. One of the key elements of treatment is to achieve a reduction or even eradication of periodontal pathogens. Researches confirm the relation between leakage at implant-abutment and subsequent implant mucositis revealed that bacterial resistance is the most important issue in infection during implant leakage. So, using the literature review of current paper, we started or incoming research project which the results will publish in recent future. This paper is heading of our recent research which based on that we want to investigate antimicrobial effect of Doxycycline on subsequent implant mucositis. So, we are trying to introduce new methods instead of old methods which have been used in marginal adaptation ','A. Implant materials\r\nIn dentistry, all-ceramic restorations are becoming a natural choice in all positions in the dental arch. The introduction of modern technology to manufacture dental restorations has generated opportunities to introduce materials that cannot be manipulated by traditional techniques. Francois Duret first described computer-assisted production of dental restorations in 1971. During the past decades, the development in the area of computer-aided design/computer-aided manufacturing (CAD/CAM) systems has accelerated. However, the number of reports related to accuracy and precision of CAD/CAM systems remains limited (Luthardt et al. 2001). The fit of a dental restoration depends on quality throughout the entire manufacturing process. Several factors affect the quality, such as preparation design, surface roughness, impression technique (Luthardt et al. 2006) production of a dental cast and, finally, when the restoration is complete, the cementation (Persson et al. 2006)','Azra Mohiti and Foad Akhoondinasab (2015). Leakage at implant-abutment and subsequent implant mucositis: Literature review .Biological Forum â€“ An International Journal 7(1): 1622-1625.'),(4362,'117','Effect of seed priming on germination and seedling traits of Marigold (Calendula officinalis) at saline condition','Azam Mirlotfi, Saeed Bakhtiari and Amir Behzad Bazrgar','257 SAEED BAKHTIARI.pdf','',1,'An experiment was conducted in laboratory and greenhouse to investigate the effect of salinity and priming on seed germination and other plant traits of calendula at 2013. Two separate factorial experiment based on randomized complete block design with three replications was conducted. Treatments were four priming levels (distilled water, 0.1% solution of manganese sulfate, 0.5% solution of calcium sulfate, 0.6% solution of potassium phosphate, control) and four salinity levels (S1: 0, S: 25, S3: 50 and S4:75 mmol/lit solutions of NaCl). Germination rate promoted by priming treatments which result in better establishment. Stem length and root length reduced by salinity. Root length enhanced by applying distilled water as priming treatment. Root dry weight enhanced by salinity. Root dry weight at 75 mmol/lit NaCl level, enhanced by applying manganese sulfate as priming treatment. Chlorophyll and carotenoid content did not affect by salinity levels and priming treatments. ','Germination rate, root length, shoot dry weight, chlorophyll content','Results showed that salinity inhibits early seedling growth of marigold seeds. The inhibitory effects of salinity decreased by priming treatments. Germination rate promoted by priming treatments which result in better establishment and higher shoot and root dry material production in marigold. Plant tolerance to environmental stresses such as salinity will improve in better established plants. The best results observed by applying distilled water and calcium sulfate as priming treatments. The lowest germination percentage gained by applying manganese sulfate as priming treatment. ','Pot marigold (Calendula officinalis), is an herbaceous plant in Calendula genus of Asteraceae family. It is an aromatic perennial and medical plant. The cosmetic and therapeutic applicability of Calendula is well established especially when concerned with skin-related disorders (Mishra et al., 2011).\r\nThe flowers of Calendula contain flavonol glycosides, triterpene oligoglycosides, oleanane-type triterpene glycosides, saponins, and asesquiterpene glucoside (Ukiya, 2006). Salinity is one of the major constraints limiting plant growth in some of the most productive agricultural regions of the world (Boyer, 1982). Increased salinity leads to a reduction or delay in germination of plant seeds (Ungar, 1982). A high concentration of salt causes ion imbalance, hyperosmotic stress, and oxidative damage (Zhu, 2002). Priming improves germination and emergence of several plant species (Singh, 1995, Bailly et al., 2000). This approach has proven its effectiveness to improve crop establishment on','Azam Mirlotfi, Saeed Bakhtiari and Amir Behzad Bazrgar (2015). Effect of seed priming on germination and seedling traits of Marigold (Calendula officinalis) at saline condition .Biological Forum â€“ An International Journal 7(1): 1626-1630. '),(4363,'117','Effect of Priming in of Water Stress various Conditions in some Vegetative traits Medicinal Plant (fennel Foeniculum vulgare. L)','HosseinVaziri Istadegi, Davood Javan Azad Del and Seyed Mohammad Mehedi Torabi','258 HOSSEIN VAZIRI ISTADEGI.pdf','',1,'To evaluate the priming effects of different solutions on dehydration tolerance in vegetative stage fennel, a factorial experiment was conducted in a completely randomized design in the laboratory and greenhouse with four replications in year 2012 at the agriculture station of Islamic Azad University of Tabriz. Factors include priming with a solution of (gibberellin, HCL, water and lack of priming) and water levels(30% of field capacity, 50% of field capacity, 70% of field capacity and full irrigation), respectively. Traits Such as stem height, number of branches, stem dry weight, leaf dry weight, biomass dry weight, root length and root dry weight, respectively. The results showed that the effect of priming and low level of water and the interaction of different types of priming per water low level in all studied traits were significant at (P 0.01). The comparison of the means showed that, priming with gibberellin, HCL and water with increasing irrigation water on stem height, number ','Priming, vegetative stage, fennel, drought stress','The results of this study showed that in all studied traits in greenhouse trials in the treatment of irrigation water and 30% of field capacity, and the pre-treatment hydrochloric acid and higher levels of irrigation and 50% field capacity when applied pre-treatment, the lack of emergence, the characteristics studied was obtained zero. The water level of 30%, a seed treatment with gibberellin and irrigation at 50% capacity in the field of pre-treatment with water, hydrochloric acid and gibberellin plant death by the drought was prevented. At all levels of irrigation, fennel seeds pre-treated with gibberellin greatest effect of an increase of the characteristics studied found in the greenhouse. \r\nAlso the effect of pretreatment with water and hydrochloric acid was not significantly different, but in general, the pretreatment or full irrigation and water conditions led to an increase in greenhouse. The pre-treatment with gibberellin, hydrochloric acid and water to increase the amount of ','Medicinal plants are economically very important and an important source of business and economy are among the most important agricultural export products (Azzaz et al., 2009). (Fennel (Foeniculum vulgare) is one of the most important medicinal plants that are cultivated worldwide and has many medicinal uses. Factors such as appropriate date of planting, planting methods, plant population, water and nutrient elements management and weed control affects the production of fennel (Mubeen et al., 2009). In Iran, fennel be cultivated in semi-arid areas as a cold plant (Moosavi et al., (2012) stated that Drought is the most important factor in reducing the performance in this plant. The results of the study state on the impact of drought stresses on growth and yield of fennel showed that dehydration in this plant leads to a reduction in the number of verticillate inflorescences, the total number of seeds per plant and seed yield. Affect priming emerged seedlings can quickly lead to the pro','HosseinVaziri Istadegi, Davood Javan Azad Del and Seyed Mohammad Mehedi Torabi (2015). Effect of Priming in of Water Stress various Conditions in some Vegetative traits Medicinal Plant (fennel Foeniculum vulgare. L) .Biological Forum â€“ An International '),(4364,'117','The First Report of Micronephthys Sphaerocirrata: Nephtyidae in \r\nSub-Tidal Areas of Chabahar Bay\r\n','Arash Shakouri and Esmaeil Dehani','259 ESMAEIL DEHANI.pdf','',1,'This study was conducted to identify Micronephthys sphaerocirrata species in sub-tidal areas of Chabahar Bay during the time period from June 2013 to February 2014. The study area is located in south-east of Iran Oman - Sistan and Baluchistan coast. The sampling was performed from Shahid Beheshti, Hafte Tir and Konarak ports. The samples were taken seasonally from each port three times from the depths of 2-10 meters by Van-Veen grab (250 cm2) for identification and one liter of sediment was taken to determine the grain size of the sediment habitat M. sphaerocirrata. The samples were sent to the laboratory and the identifications were performed based on the necessary resources and references. Also the environmental factors such as pH, Salinity, temperature in the sample were determined. The results of this study indicated that M. sphaerocirrata species had the highest frequency during autumn. ','Chabahar Bay, Sub- tidal area, Micronephthys sphaerocirrata','Morphological specifications: prostomium is reduced, quite square with four longitudinal grooves and two equal sized antennas and a pair of pulp (Fig. 3). It has fine eye spots without lens. The body is flattened as abdominal back body. Lengths up to 14 mm (most samples are typically smaller) and has a maximum of 34 Chaetiger. Muscular pharynx with the ability to collapse (Fig. 2), it has am end loop with papilla and there are a row of papilla under the pharynx, around the areas of naked pharynx and may have papilla that give it a granular form. It has multiple hair-like cirri in any part of the body (Fig. 3). The long body is divided by the ring-like contractions (Annuli) in the outside and divided by a wall inside (Fig. 3), which are suitable for symmetric bilateral movement. The mouth is under the head and the colon is recognizable as gray in the middle part of the body. The parapodia of anterior parts have surrounded the mouth. The first Chaetiger is smaller than the next one and t','One of the main topics of the ecology of the sea is the study of the species in sediments or benthos. The Macro benthos forms a majority of species in the bed that have a larger biomass compared to other benthos (meio-fauna and micro-fauna). Nephtyidae are among the invertebrates living in the sediments that can be found in almost all marine ecosystems (Gopalakrishnan et al., 2008). These organisms having high species richness are among the creatures that have a key role in the ocean food chain (Gregory, 2007). Most of them are benthic and live in sediments or attached to the seabed (Kotpal, 2002). Various scological conditions, such as depth, temperature, season, and the amount of organic matter in the sediment affect their distribution and their distribution changes seasonally (Nybakken, 1993).\r\nThe Nephtidae family of Micronephthys Sphaerocirrata are small to medium-sized and they are rarely seen in large sizes the largest size that has been detected so far was 10cm (Dnestrovskay','Arash Shakouri and Esmaeil Dehani (2015). The First Report of Micronephthys Sphaerocirrata: Nephtyidae in Sub-Tidal Areas of Chabahar Bay. Biological Forum â€“ An International Journal 7(1): 1639-1642.\r\n'),(4365,'117','Evaluating the Effect of Irrigation Interval on the yield and Yield components of mungbean (Vigna radiate L)','Ali Samghani, Saeed Bakhtiyari and Amir Behzadbazrgar','260 SAEED BAKHTIYARI.pdf','',1,'In order to study the effect of irrigation interval and density on mungbean, an experiment was conducted in a split-plot design in a complete block design with 3 replications in a research station in Neyshabour Branch of Islamic Azad University in 2013. The treatments including irrigation intervals in three levels of 8, 10, and 12-days were considered as the primary factor and the density on three levels of 15, 20, and 25 cm row spacing as the secondary factor. The studied traits in this design were: plant height, number of pods per plant, number of seeds per pod, pod length, the weight for 100 seeds, and biological yield. The effect of irrigation interval was significant on traits such as plant height, number of pods per plant, the weight for 100 seeds, and pod length. Most of these traits were resulted in an 8-day-irrigation interval. The effect of density was significant on traits such as plant height, number of pods per plant, numberof seeds per pod, the weight for 100 seeds, and p','Mungbean, Irrigation Interval, Density, Row Spacing, Yield','The effect of irrigation intervals on plant height, number of pods, weight of 100 seeds, pod width, and pod length was meaningful, and the maximum of these traits were seen in 8-days irrigation intervals. The effect of density on plant height, number of pods, number of seeds in pod, weight of 100 seeds, pod length, and biological yield was significant, and the maximum height and biologic yield was observed in a treatment with 15 cm rows. The number of pods in plant, number of seeds in pod, and pod length were achieved in 25cm rows. In fewer densities, because of plant growth, germination of lateral branches and more fertile nodes, the average yield of each plant increased; however, fewer number of plants in unit area caused reduction of yield in unit area. Although there were more plants in higher density, because of less access of plant to materials produced by photosynthesis the yield of each plant and yield per unit of area will be reduced. The interaction between irrigation interva','One of the main goals of today\'s crop yield increase is to match the growing population of the world. The world population is growing at a 1.6-to-1.7% rate; in other words, 95 million people are annually added to the number of consumers of agricultural crops while over 90 % of this increase is happening in developing countries, the areas that have already suffered food shortages. This means that food production should raise permanently in order to compensate for food shortages in many areas in the world (Majnoon Hoseini, 2004). In most areas in the country, the efficiency of grains yield in area unit (ha) is low, therefore, an appropriate plan is needed for utilizing the soil and water for developing goals. If we could use plants and their related indices for planning irrigation, a step is taken for the optimal use of soil and water in the country (Nourmand et.al., 2001). Mungbean (Vigna radiate) is a one-year-plant from legume family. In Vavilovâ€™s idea, mungbean originates in India,','Ali Samghani, Saeed Bakhtiyari and Amir Behzadbazrgar (2015). Evaluating the Effect of Irrigation Interval on the yield and Yield components of mungbean (Vigna radiate L) .Biological Forum â€“ An International Journal 7(1): 1643-1648.'),(4366,'117','Studying the Effect of Hydro- and Halo-Priming on Germination Traits and Growth of Two Genotypes of Atriplex (Canensens-Lentiformis) in Saline Conditions','Mahdi Ghabdian, Saeed Bakhtiyari and Amir Behzad Barzegar','261 SAEED BAKHTIYARI.pdf','',1,'In order to study the effect of hydro- and halo-priming on the germination and growth of two genotypes of atriplex in saline conditions, an experiment was implemented in summer, 2014 in a plant research greenhouse and in the greenhouse of the university in Neyshabour Branch of Islamic Azad University. This experiment was carried out in a laboratory in a factorial and completely randomized design with 4 replications and in the greenhouse in a completely randomized block design with 3 replications. Priming contained: 1. Halo-priming: (Soaking in inorganic salt solution), 2. Hydro-priming: (absorbing distilled water), 3. Control: (non-prime), and salinity (0, 25, 50, and 75 MM). The traits under study in greenhouse were comprised of percentage and rate of germination, stem length, fresh and dry weight of stem, fresh and dry weight of leaf, and the plant length. The pot experiment showed that the genotype had a significant effect on the rate and percentage of germination, plant length, fre','Halo-Prime, Hydro-Prime, Atriplex, Salinity','It was also shown in pot test that the genotype had a meaningful effect of rate and percentage of germination, length of the plant, and weights of fresh and dry stem and leaf. Moreover, priming was significant in all traits but in the fresh and dry weights stem and leaf. In addition, salinity, similarly, was significant for all traits of pot studies. The interaction between genotype and priming was meaningful only on germination rate. The interaction between genotype and salinity was meaningful only in fresh and dry weight of stem. Lentiformis genotype had a greater percentage and germination rate along with plant length and fresh and dry weight of leaf in comparison to Canensens. In all the significant traits, zero millimollar halo-prime and salinity caused the best result. Therefore, it seems Lentiformis genotype operates better in saline conditions, and halo-prime of seeds cause reduction in effects of saline tension in Atriplex seed.','Fodder plants have a major role in animal feeding and is considered as one of the most important crops in the world. However in most of the countries comparing to the attention paid to other crops, little work is done in researching and developing the production and managing these plants. Regarding the dearth of rich pastures and the high number of livestock, studying on the cultivating such crops is significantly important in our country (Mirlohi et al., 2000). Atriplex can be considered as a good supply of protein production in Iran since 10 out of 90 million hectare of pastures are arable lands for this plant; with the average production of 1500 fodder units per hectare, 15 billion fodder units (15 million tons of barley) can be annually added to the pasture production of Iran. Regarding these statistics, we can see the real value and importance of this plant and try to invest on its production and development. Based on the reported statistics by FAO, from per hectare of Atriplex cu','Mahdi Ghabdian, Saeed Bakhtiyari and Amir Behzad Barzegar (2015). Studying the Effect of Hydro- and Halo-Priming on Germination Traits and Growth of Two Genotypes of Atriplex (Canensens-Lentiformis) in Saline Conditions .Biological Forum â€“ An Internatio'),(4367,'117','Effect of Butea monosperma on Reproductive Organs, Sperm Count and Testosterone of Male Albino Rat, Rattus Rattus (Wistar)','C.K. Deshmukh and S.K. Bhagat','263 C.K. DESHMUKH.pdf','',1,'The flowers of Butea monosperma are used for curing infertility in local tribes. However the validity has not been scientifically proven therefore the present study is aimed to evaluate the effect of methanolic flower extract of B .monosperma on male albino rat, Rattus rattus (Wistar). The extract of 100, 200 and 300 mg/ kg body weight were administered for 15 days and sacrificed. The weight of reproductive and vital organs found significantly increased ( p<0.001) at 100 and 300 mg doses/kg body weight but testesâ€™ weight also found significantly increased ( p<0.001) at 200 mg/kg body weight. Testosterone increased significantly (p<0.001) for all doses even in recovery period (p<0.05). At 300 mg /kg body weight the sperm count increased significantly (p<0.001). 300mg/kg body weight dose is found highly significant (p<0.001) for reproductive and vital organs, sperm count and testosterone except liver. Therefore the present observations concluded that extract of B. monosperma is ab','Butea monosperma, testosterones, sperm count, infertility','Thus, the present observations conclude that metahnolic extract of Butea monosperma at 300mg dose is highly significant (p<0.001) for reproductive and vital organs, sperm count and testosterone except liver and it does not create the toxicity. Hence, we can say that the flower of Butea monosperma can improve reproductive function in male albino rat, Rattus rattus (Wistar).','Infertility is one of the problems of human society. In the last few years, there is a marked decrease in the quality of semen (Carlsen, et al., 1992). According to the World Health Organisation 10-15% of young couples are faced with infertility and in which 50% is due to male factor (Kaiser,1988, Henkel and Bodekar, 2005 and Wani, et al., 2011). About 25-40% young people is below the standard index in semen parameters (Andersens, et al., 2000) and it is one of the major causes of divorces, disharmony, as a result the physical and the mental health disturbed (Badami, et al., 2000, Kandeel, et al., 2001). Allopathic remedies are proved to be best but have adverse side effects (Kulkarni and Reddy, 1998).\r\nMedicinal plants and nutrients are used in improving the sexual health (Ashok Kumar and Arora, 2013). A large number of aphrodisiac plants are used throughout the world for their fertility properties (Bhatia, et al., 2010). \r\nIndia is well known for its richest biodiversity. It is','C.K. Deshmukh and S.K. Bhagat (2015). Effect of Butea monosperma on Reproductive Organs, Sperm Count and Testosterone of Male Albino Rat, Rattus Rattus (Wistar) .Biological Forum â€“ An International Journal 7(1): 1659-1663 .'),(4368,'117','The Effect of Various Levels of Salinity and Superabsorbent on Agronomic Characteristics of Basil in Greenhouse Condition','Ehsan Darehshouri and Mohammad Mehdi Rahimi','264 EHSAN DAREHSHOURI.pdf','',1,'To investigate the effect of different levels of salinity and super absorbent material on seedling vigor and growth characteristics of basil in greenhouse cultivation, a factorial experiment carried out in a randomized complete block design with 12 treatments and 3 replications in green house agriculture research station Traditional. Treatments consisted off our salinity levels (zero, 100, 150 and 200Mm salt) and super absorbent material in three levels (zero, 5 and 10g) per pot. The effect of salinity on four levels (zero, 100, 150 and 200mM salt) in a completely randomized design with three replications was studied in vitro cultivation. Analysis of variance showed that the effects of salinity on Shoot length at five percent and the root length, wet Biomass of root and Shoot, dry Biomass of root and shoot, number of leaves and number of lateral branches in pot cultivation was significant at the probability of one percent. The results of variance analysis showed that the effects of sup','Agronomic Characteristics, Basil, Salt Stress, Seedling vigor, Super absorbent materials','To investigate the effect of different levels of salinity and super absorbent material on seedling vigor and growth characteristics of basil in greenhouse cultivation, a factorial experiment carried out in a randomized complete block design with 12 treatments and 3 replications in green house agriculture research station Traditional. Treatments consisted off our salinity levels (zero, 100, 150 and 200Mm salt) and super absorbent material in three levels (zero, 5 and 10g) per pot. The effect of salinity on four levels (zero, 100, 150 and 200mM salt) in a completely randomized design with three replications was studied in vitro cultivation. Analysis of variance showed that the effects of salinity on Shoot length at five percent and the root length, wet Biomass of root and Shoot, dry Biomass of root and shoot, number of leaves and number of lateral branches in pot cultivation was significant at the probability of one percent. The results of variance analysis showed that the effects of sup','In most areas of the world, salinity tension is the most important environmental factor that constrains the performance of agricultural products by decreasing osmotic potential and disruption in absorption of some food elements (Demir Kaya et al, 2006; Netondo et al, 2004). Salinity affects all metabolisms and changes the anatomy and morphology of the plant. Some of these changes are in fact the compatibilities that help the herb tolerate the salinity-induced stress; however, most observed changes indicate the damage due to salinity (Azar Neivand and Gorbani, 2007). \r\nIncreased salt absorption and ionic toxicity leads to disruption of cellular function and damage to physiologic processes including photosynthesis and respiration (Munns, 2002). Change in chromosome and chromatin structure, DNA mutilation, polyploidy and multiplication or deletion of DNA strings are the main effects of salinity (Walbt and Cullis, 1985). Increased salinity can also lead to hyperosmotic and hypertonic tensi','Ehsan Darehshouri and Mohammad Mehdi Rahimi (2015). The Effect of Various Levels of Salinity and Superabsorbent on Agronomic Characteristics of Basil in Greenhouse Condition . Biological Forum â€“ An International Journal 7(1): 1664-1670.'),(4369,'117','Study Synthesis of Vanadium Oxide Nanotubes with two template hexadecylamin and hexylamine','Ehsan Kianfar, Mehdi Baghernejad and Yasaman Rahimdashti','265 MEHDI BAGHERNEJAD.pdf','',1,'Lately there has been much interest in synthesizing characterizing new vanadium oxide host/ guest compounds. These compounds have open structures and the ability to intercalate atoms or molecules.They may be used as catalysts, molecular sieves, absorbents and energy storage devices.Vanadium oxide nanotube (VOX-NT) is a new type of nanotublar material which open new horizons for application in many areas. The important catalytic and electrochemical property of vanadium oxide as well as the unique shape of the nanotubes has been the impetus for studying this novel type of nanostructured material.In this research, vanadium oxide nanotubes had been synthesized via gelation of V2O5 and ethanol as solvent followed by hydrothermal treatment for one (1) to seven (7) days at 180ÂºC. The main objective of the study is to produce good quality VOX-NTS at a fastest synthesis time. Two template materials were studied: hexadecylamin and hexylamine. The products obtained were characterized for its mor','Vanadium Oxide, Nanotubes, Ultrasonics, Hydrothermal, hexadecylamine, hexylamine','Vanadium oxide nanotubes can be successfully synthesized starting from V2O5nH2O gels with just two days duration of hydrothermal treatment. Essentially, other synthesis routes reported by other researchers need at least one week duration of hydrothermal treatment in order to produce the nanotubes. But, in this study, a shortest duration time for the synthesis of exclusively VOX-NTs had been achieved. Using different template materials affects the resulting products especially when synthesized at longer duration time of hydrothermal treatment. Some tubes and ribbons changes to flakes and others collapse when hexylamine template were used. Interestingly, using hexadecylamine with longer carbon chain length, the nanotubes can be produced within two to seven days of hydrothermal treatment with no other by-products, isolated product without agglomerated and longer length occur when was used an ultrasonic during mixing. Thus, the research output of this study, fast synthesis time, will sign','Nanotechnology is the understanding and control of matter at dimensions between approximately 1 and 100 nanometers, where unique phenomena enable novel applications. Nano-scale science, engineering and technology, involves imaging, measuring, modeling, and manipulating matter at this length scale (Iijima, 1991). One nanometer is one-billionth of a meter. A sheet of paper is about 100,000 nanometers thick; a single gold atom is about one third of a nanometer in diameter. Dimensions between approximately 1 and 100 nanometers are known as the nanoscale. Unusual physical, chemical, and biological properties can emerge in materials at the nanoscale. These properties may differ from the properties of bulk materials and single atoms or molecules. The discovery of the carbon nanotubes (Lam and Luong 2014) and finding a unique structure for novel products due to physical properties and interesting shape of it has opened a new gateway to the science. There are several reports published on com','Ehsan Kianfar, Mehdi Baghernejad and Yasaman Rahimdashti (2015). Study Synthesis of Vanadium Oxide Nanotubes with two template hexadecylamin and hexylamine .Biological Forum â€“ An International Journal 7(1): 1671-1685.'),(4370,'117','Pulsed Corona Discharge, a New and Effective Technique for Water and Air Treatment','Mohammad Kebriaei, Abbas Ketabi and Abolfazl Halvaei Niasar','266 MOHAMMAD KEBRIAEI.pdf','',1,'New technologies to solve environmental problems are in demand nowadays. Existing methods cannot always be used because they are too expensive, have unwanted byproducts or simply don\'t work. A new approach is to create active species in situ so transport losses can be avoided. Pulsed corona discharges is such a method. Its principle is that high energy electrons are created during the propagation phase of the streamer. These electrons dissociate molecules and create radicals such as O, OH, N2 (A) and indirectly HO2, O3 and others. All these radicals start chemical reactions which cause, mainly, oxidation of impurities present in the gas or water. There in an attempt in this paper discuss the pulsed corona discharge as an effective technique in water, gas and air treatment based on some related researches which investigate various aspects of water and gas cleaning using this technique. So the methodology used in this paper is descriptive, library and analytical. The required materials a','pulsed corona discharge, water treatment, ozone generation, Fenton reaction, air pollution control','Corona discharges have already been in use for gas treatment for a long time. The most important applications are ozone formation, dust precipitation and the conversion of environmentally harmful species, such as NOx, SO2 and many hydrocarbons. The mechanism in the case of these chemical conversions is almost always oxidation. Reduction can in principle be realized in a discharge but only at high energy cost and under conditions that are very exceptional in practice.\r\nNew oxidation techniques for water cleaning are also under development. These include treatment with ozone, supercritical water, UV photons, electron beams, x-rays, ultrasound and electrical discharges in several forms. The electrical discharges, particularly pulsed corona discharges (PCDs) seem to be the most promising because of the following advantages.\r\nPCD can effectively oxidize a wide variety of toxic organic compounds in air and in water. \r\n- Pulsed electric fields can kill a wide range of harmful microbial contam','International and national regulations are becoming increasingly severe concerning the quality of the environment and the amount of pollutants discharged into wastewater streams form different process plants. Many of these pollutants are of hazardous or toxic nature posing serious problems to the environment. Thus it becomes necessary from both the legal and ecological points of view to control carefully wastewater effluents and to develop new techniques to treat the pollutants (Lukes, 2001). \r\nIn addition, the increasing concern about the environmental problems facing the world such as acid rain, ozone depletion, global warming and smog has determined the interest toward developing new and more effective gas cleaning technologies (Mizuno et al., 1995). \r\nHigh power pulsed corona is a promising type of high-voltage discharge that can be well controlled and that has interesting environmental applications. With pulsed corona discharges energy is deposited in a gas or in a liquid in a h','Mohammad Kebriaei, Abbas Ketabi and Abolfazl Halvaei Niasar (2015). Pulsed Corona Discharge, a New and Effective Technique for Water and Air Treatment .Biological Forum â€“ An International Journal 7(1): 1686-1692.'),(4371,'117','Effect of Hydro-priming and Hormonal Priming on Germination Traits of Chickpea Cultivars','Naghmeh Laal, Toraj Mir-Mahmoodi and Nabi Khaliliaqdam','267 NAGHMEH LAAL.pdf','',1,'Priming of seeds in osmoticums such as ascorbic acid, salicylic acid and in water is a simple and safe technique for enhancing seed germination. Therefore, the laboratory assay was conducted in seed Laboratory of Islamic Azad University of Sanandaj. The experiment was conducted as a factorial design based on completely randomized design with three replications. Factor A included six priming treatments of: 50 ppm Salicylic acid (SA) , 100 ppm SA, 50 ppm Ascorbic acid (AsA), 100 ppm AsA, hydro-priming and control (no priming) and factor B included the four chickpea cultivars (Kaka, Jam, Piruz and ILC462). Results showed that the maximum rate of shoot length, root length, shoot and root dry weight and shoot and root fresh weight in all chickpea cultivars was recorded by 100 AsA priming treatment. Application of higher dose (100 ppm) of SA and AsA resulted in the highest rate of germination in all chickpea cultivars. Germination percentage was significantly increased in all priming treatme','Ascorbic acid, Germination, Salicylic acid, Seed priming. ','Priming can be useful for chickpea seedling, because this technique increases seed and seedling quality. This is of importance as primed seeds germinate faster and this will increase their competition power against the weeds. The priming by AsA and hydro-priming was less effective than salicylic acid priming. This effect may however be modified by variables such as the size and the nature of chickpea seeds. For interested researchers, however, studying the very low concentration of AsA and SA will be a window for research.','Emergence and rapid germination are important determinants of successful stand establishment of seedling. The chickpea (Cicer arietinum L.) as a healthy vegetarian food has an important role in human food and domestic animal feed. Chickpea is increasingly being sown in the spring rather than the autumn in Iran. However, drought stress and weed interference are considered as important problems for spring sowing of chickpea. In low temperature regions, chickpeas are drilled into cool soils. Temperatures of 10Â°C, commonly found in spring planting, also suppress chickpea germination.\r\nSoaking of seeds in water or an osmotic solution permits partial seed hydration, so that pre-germination metabolic activities proceed but primary root protrusion is prevented. Such treatments, which are usually followed by drying of the seeds, are known as priming. Priming of seeds in osmoticums such as ascorbic acid, salicylic acid and in water (hydro-priming) has been reported to be a simple and safe techn','Naghmeh Laal, Toraj Mir-Mahmoodi and Nabi Khaliliaqdam (2015). Effect of Hydro-priming and Hormonal Priming on Germination Traits of Chickpea Cultivars. Biological Forum â€“ An International Journal 7(1): 1693-1697.'),(4372,'117','Effect of Biological and Chemical Nitrogen Fertilizers on Yield, Yield Components and essential oil content of German Chamomile (Matricaria chamomilla L.) in Shahr-e-Ray Region','Mohammad Kariminejad and Alireza Pazoki','268 ALIREZA PAZOKI.pdf','',1,'In order to evaluate the variations of some morphological traits, yield, seed yield components and essential oil yield of German Chamomile under different application levels of nitrogen (N) and biofertilizers, a split plot experiment laid out in a randomized complete blocks design with three replications in Shar-e-Ray (Gale No) region. Chemical N fertilizer application in three levels (0, 65 and 130 Kg/Ha) was considered as the main factor and biofertilizers application (Control, Nitroxin, Barvar-2 phosphate and a mixture of both) as the secondary factor. Variance analysis results showed that there was no significant relationship between Chamomile Harvest Index and N fertilizer application. Also, the interaction effect of N and biofertilizers was not significant on Chamomile seed and essential oil yields. The rise in N application led to a significant increase in plant height, Capitol fresh and dried yield, seed and essential yields. More ever, the application of biofertilizers, especi','Biofertilizer, Nitrogen, Essential oil, German chamomile (Matricaria chamomilla L.) ','The application of chemical N fertilizers has favorable effects on several plant traits such as plant height, Capitol weight, and vegetative body, since with the rise in the amount of applied N fertilizer, the above-mentioned traits increased significantly, compared to the control. However, the application of biofertilizers enhanced the quantitative and qualitative yield of German Chamomile, since B2 and B4 treatments (Nitroxin and a mixture of Nitroxin and Barvar-2 phosphate) were the best ones in regard of seed yield and essence yield. It should be noted that evaluating the interaction effects suggested the relatively equal rise of the studied traits in N2 (65 Kg/Ha along with biofertilizers) and N3 (135 Kg/Ha along with biofertilizers). \r\nSeemingly, the use of bio stimulants not only has desirable effects on Chamomile yield, but also enhances the efficiency of N Fertilizer consumption which can be introduced as an alternative to Chemical fertilizers in sustainable medicinal Chamomi','German Chamomile is a perennial herb which belongs to Asteraceae (Franke & Schilcher, 2005). According to the reports, it is originated from central Asia and Mediterranean regions. This plant is widely spread in Iran, from West to East and from North to the center of the country. It has a direct stem and depending on the growth climatic conditions, its height varies from 30 to 80 cm. Also, the diameter of the flowers varies from 0.6 to 1.6 cm and rarely reaches 2.2 cm. flowers are hermaphrodite and the plant itself is a self-pollinated one (Bernath, 2000). Chamomile has various compounds. For example, Paulsen et al (2002) identified 10 chemical compounds in Chamomile essence, among them, Camphor, Chrysanthenyl acetate, and Camphene can be considered as the most important compounds. The aim of medicinal plant commercial production is to obtain more biomass per area along with higher amounts of active ingredients. Fertilizers are among the most significant factors which affect the produc','Mohammad Kariminejad and Alireza Pazoki (2015). Effect of Biological and Chemical Nitrogen Fertilizers on Yield, Yield Components and essential oil content of German Chamomile (Matricaria chamomilla L.) in Shahr-e-Ray Region.Biological Forum â€“ An Inter'),(4373,'117','Humic acid as an Ecological Pathway to Protect Corn Plants against Oxidative Stress','Hamid Reza Tohidi Moghadam','269 HAMID REZA TOHIDI MOGHADAM.pdf','',1,'In order to study effect of humic acid (HA) foliar application and limited irrigation, on growth and quantitative characteristics of corn an experiment was conducted in research field of Varamin in Iran during 2012 growing season. The experimental design was laid out in a randomized complete block with a split plots arrangement of treatments in three replications. Main plotÂ¬s included three different levels of irrigation (complete irrigation, irrigation withholding at 8-leaf stage and irrigation withholding at staminate inflorescence) and four different concentration of HA foliar application (0, 150, 300 and 450 ppm) was allocated to subplots were. The results showed that irrigation withholding conditions in different growth stages significantly decreased seed yield and biological yield but by contrast increased antioxidant enzymes activity and lipid, protein and nucleoside peroxidation. It appears that HA act in plants via a specific form of stress that is detected by anti-stress def','Humic acid, corn, irrigation withholding, seed yield, antioxidant enzymes','Humic acid foliar application affected the activity of some enzymes in the anti oxidative defense system, thus controlling the ROS levels and on the occurrence of lipid, protein and nucleoside peroxidation. The mechanisms of HA action also involve the expression of genes encoding aquaporins in the tonoplast. \r\nThis work indicates that HA could act according to a physiological mechanism equivalent to that functioning in plants under stress conditions. HA be applied to estimulate antioxidative stress system and protect plants in water deficient soils.\r\n','Across the globe today, maize is a direct staple food for millions of individuals and, through indirect consumption as a feed crop, is an essential component of global food security (Campos et al., 2004). Water stress induces oxidative stress in plants (Hajiboland and Joudmand, 2009). Under conditions of water stress and other types of environmental stress, reactive oxygen species (ROS), such as superoxide anion radicals, hydrogen peroxide and hydroxyl radicals, are generated (Zhu 2000). These free radicals can damage essential membrane lipids as well as proteins (PROT) and nucleic acids (Noctor and Foyer 1998). Plant cells contain an array of protection mechanisms and repair systems that can minimize the occurrence of oxidative damage caused by reactive oxygen species (ROS) (Abdel Latef, 2010). Mechanisms of active oxygen species detoxification exist in all the plants and include activation of enzymatic (superoxide dismuatase, catalase, ascorbat peroxidase, peroxidase, glutathione red','Hamid Reza Tohidi Moghadam (2015). Humic acid as an Ecological Pathway to Protect Corn Plants against Oxidative Stress .Biological Forum â€“ An International Journal 7(1): 1704-1709.'),(4374,'117','Effect of Deficit Irrigation and Nano Fertilizers on Yield and some Morphological Traits of Cotton','Amir Siskani, Mohammadjavad Seghatoleslami and Gholamreza Moosavi','270 MOHAMMADJAVAD SEGHATOLESLAMI.pdf','',1,'In order to study the response of cotton to nano fertilizers, under low irrigation condition, a split plot randomized complete block design with three replications was used at the Agricultural Research Center of Birjand branch, Islamic Azad University, Birjand, Iran in 2014. Irrigation treatments(including 50% and 100% of crop water requirement) and fertilizer treatments (including control, ZnO, SiO2, ZnO + SiO2, nano ZnO, nano SiO2 and nano ZnO + nano SiO2) were as main plots and sub plots, respectively. Results revealed that low irrigation regime led to reduction of yield, yield components and morphological traits. Seed cotton (lint + seed) and lint yield at 50% of crop water requirement decreased 29.7 and 26.5% that control treatment, respectively. Fertilizer treatment had no effect on any measured traits but ZnO led to 12.5% increase in cotton lint yield that control. According to the results of the study, it is better to irrigate cotton based on 100% of crop water requirement if ','water stress, ZnO, SiO2, boll, lint yield','In order to study the response of cotton to nano fertilizers, under low irrigation condition, a split plot randomized complete block design with three replications was used at the Agricultural Research Center of Birjand branch, Islamic Azad University, Birjand, Iran in 2014. Irrigation treatments(including 50% and 100% of crop water requirement) and fertilizer treatments (including control, ZnO, SiO2, ZnO + SiO2, nano ZnO, nano SiO2 and nano ZnO + nano SiO2) were as main plots and sub plots, respectively. Results revealed that low irrigation regime led to reduction of yield, yield components and morphological traits. Seed cotton (lint + seed) and lint yield at 50% of crop water requirement decreased 29.7 and 26.5% that control treatment, respectively. Fertilizer treatment had no effect on any measured traits but ZnO led to 12.5% increase in cotton lint yield that control. According to the results of the study, it is better to irrigate cotton based on 100% of crop water requirement if ','After soya, cottonseed is considered as the second oilseed in terms of oil production rate (Naseri, 1994). This product is called White Gold due to its high commercial and economic value, and, with public awareness increase, the need for cotton textiles is rising. Given that cotton comprises the feedstock of textile industries and these industries create jobs, the significance of cotton is clear in current conditions of the country. Numerous factors play a role in acquiring optimum yield of the cotton plant among them water and nutrient elements needed by plants, have profound impact on yield and yield components of cotton. Therefore, irrigation management and nutrient elements are two very substantial and crucial issues in optimal production of cotton (Li et al., 2002). The extensive researches have indicated that if cotton is irrigated with abundant water, it will grow as a large shrub and signs of delay in reproductive growth will appear in it; nevertheless, under mild and prolonged','Amir Siskani, Mohammadjavad Seghatoleslami and Gholamreza Moosavi (2015). Effect of Deficit Irrigation and Nano Fertilizers on Yield and some Morphological Traits of Cotton . Biological Forum â€“ An International Journal 7(1): 1710-1715 .');
INSERT INTO `pdf_upload` VALUES (4375,'117','The Diameter and Height of Pine Trees Tehran in relation to changes in Environmental factors','Abdolhossein Nahvi, Behrouz Kord and Sara Pourabbasi','271 BEHROUZ KORD @ SYED HASHEMI.pdf','',1,'This study aimed to investigate the response of pine trees Tehran to change some features of slope and aspect were in Forest Park. For this purpose 70 circular plots 200 m2, in four aspects and three classes slope, 0-15, 16-30, and 31-45 percent respectively. In each sample plot, DBH and height of trees was measured. Results showed that the slope and aspect been effective on DBH and height of pine trees while their combined effect are significant only on the height of the trees. Maximum height and diameter of pine trees in the south and east sides and steep 0- 15 percent. In order to increase the size of small features, planting this species in the same ecological areas in the east and south and the relatively gentle slopes is recommended.','Afforestation, slope, aspect, DBH, height, forest park ','This study aimed to investigate the response of pine trees Tehran to change some features of slope and aspect were in Forest Park. For this purpose 70 circular plots 200 m2, in four aspects and three classes slope, 0-15, 16-30, and 31-45 percent respectively. In each sample plot, DBH and height of trees was measured. Results showed that the slope and aspect been effective on DBH and height of pine trees while their combined effect are significant only on the height of the trees. Maximum height and diameter of pine trees in the south and east sides and steep 0- 15 percent. In order to increase the size of small features, planting this species in the same ecological areas in the east and south and the relatively gentle slopes is recommended.','In a country like Iran, which has a dry climate, the development of forests through afforestation is one of the main objectives numerous. Basically afforestation in arid zones for different purposes and sometimes it could be a lie, including issues related to conservation and soil fertility, creation of green areas and construction of resorts around cities, air and stylized wood production year (Boisseau et al., 1996; Randall, 1998). Since using afforestation man seeking a new and relatively stable ecosystem, so is an appropriate species selection, consistent and favorable growth and interest are to be survive (Taheri, 2008). Stated that the soils under pine Tehran, loam percent increase, and these increases soil acidity and phosphorus has pine trees in Tehran in eastern and southern Forest Chitgar Park are the better growth (Taheri, 2008). Pine Tehran stopped introduced to maintain the soil water deficiency and soil saturation Clement (Chandran, 1994)]. Pine trees concluded that the ','Abdolhossein Nahvi, Behrouz Kord and Sara Pourabbasi (2015). The Diameter and Height of Pine Trees Tehran in relation to changes in Environmental factors .Biological Forum â€“ An International Journal 7(1): 1716-1718 .'),(4376,'117','Evaluation of Sugarcane (Saccharum officinarum L.) different Genotypes to the Uptake and Transport of Ionic in Salt Stress Conditions','Faraj Musavi, Shahram Lak, Alireza Shokuhfar and Adel Modhaj','272 FARAJ MUSAVI.pdf','',1,'Sugarcane, as an important sugar crop, is planted in the tropical and subtropical countries most of which are facing the problem of soil or water salinity. This study was conducted to evaluate the ionic elements uptake and transport of sugarcane genotypes in salt stress conditions in south west Iran Sugarcane Research and Training Institute in hydroponic greenhouses. A factorial experiment within a completely randomized design (RCD) at three replications under greenhouse controlled conditions and hydroponics. The treatments included 9 sugarcane genotypes and salinity 4 levels (0, 3, 6 and 9 ds.m-1). The results of the experiment showed that salinity decreased the concentration of potassium, calcium, and also increased the concentration of sodium and chlorine in root and shoot which ultimately led to reduced plant biomass, especially in more sensitive cultivars. Besides this, the results showed that the root had an effective role in control, uptake, and transport of ions to the shoot. I','Salt, sugarcane roots, ionic elements, clone','Salinity stress is effective on the content of the ionic elements of sugarcane different genotypes. The increase in salinity levels led to the increase in the amount of Na and Cl in the examined genotype leaf and root. But clone C2, C3, and C4, probably could counter the harmful effects of Na and Cl ions using the preventative uptake mechanisms and preventing the transfer of Na and Cl from the root to the shoot. The obtained results from Na and K measurement exhibited that the accumulation of Na ion in the plant was more than the accumulation of K ion. The increase in salinity level contributed to the increase in the amount of Na and its transport to shoots which led to growth decrease and lessening in the plant dry weight. Accordingly, preventing the uptake and transport and distribution of the two harmful Na and Cl ions can be applied as the three important mechanisms in salinity tension tolerance in sugarcane. Based on the results gained from this study, it can be concluded that the','Sugarcane (Saccharum officinarum L.) is one of the main plants which provides people with most of the sugar consumption. Due to increasing demand for sugar consumption, cultivation of the crop and ancillary products are expanded in the arid and semi arid subtropical regions of south western Iran. But due to the increasing demand for sugar, the plant cultivation has quickly spread to dry subtropical regions (Bernstein et al., 1966). Water and soil salinity in Iran is a major problem in the agricultural sector. According to the researches, about 33/7 million hectares of agricultural lands in Iran are facing the problem of salinity (Imam, 2004). In recent years, due to salinity and water shortage a lot of herbal products in various areas of the country have been damaged. Reasons creating high salinity in soil EC can be pointed out as such: high water evaporation from the soil surface and use of water with low quality and high EC. Soltani Hoveize et al (2007) in a study on sugarcane show','Faraj Musavi, Shahram Lak, Alireza Shokuhfar and Adel Modhaj (2015). Evaluation of Sugarcane (Saccharum officinarum L.) different Genotypes to the Uptake and Transport of Ionic in Salt Stress Conditions .Biological Forum â€“ An International Journal 7(1):'),(4377,'117','Effects of TiO2 (nano and bulk) foliar application on physiological traits and grain yield of Safflower (Carthamus tinctorius L.)','Elham Morteza, Payam Moaveni, Tayebeh Morteza, Hadi Saemi and Ali Joorabloo','273 ELHAM MORTEZA.pdf','',1,'This study was done to investigate the effects of TiO2 (nano and bulk) foliar application on the physiological traits and grain yield of safflower (Carthamus tinctorius L.). Therefore, this study was conducted during the growing seasons of 2013 and 2014. This research was done as a RCBD experiment with four replications at the one personal farm, at Garmsar, Iran. This experiment consisted of four treatments, T1: no-foliar application, T2: foliar application of TiO2 (bulk) at concentration of 0.04%, T3: foliar application with nano-TiO2 at concentration of 0.02% and T4: concentration of 0.04%. Final results showed that application of nanoTiO2 had a significant effect on the traits of total chlorophyll, carotenoids, soluble proteins, grain yield of safflower and the treatment of the application of nanoTiO2 improved physiological traits of this plant so that the highest amount of these traits was obtained by the treatment of nanoTiO2 at concentration of 0.04%. Therefore these results show','Nano TiO2, Soluble proteins, Biological yield, Carotenoids','This study was done to investigate the effects of TiO2 (nano and bulk) foliar application on the physiological traits and grain yield of safflower (Carthamus tinctorius L.). Therefore, this study was conducted during the growing seasons of 2013 and 2014. This research was done as a RCBD experiment with four replications at the one personal farm, at Garmsar, Iran. This experiment consisted of four treatments, T1: no-foliar application, T2: foliar application of TiO2 (bulk) at concentration of 0.04%, T3: foliar application with nano-TiO2 at concentration of 0.02% and T4: concentration of 0.04%. Final results showed that application of nanoTiO2 had a significant effect on the traits of total chlorophyll, carotenoids, soluble proteins, grain yield of safflower and the treatment of the application of nanoTiO2 improved physiological traits of this plant so that the highest amount of these traits was obtained by the treatment of nanoTiO2 at concentration of 0.04%. Therefore these results show','Safflower (Carthamus tinctorius L.) is an annual plant originally grown for its flowers. Today, safflower it is primarily cultivated for its oil, which is used for food and industrial purposes. Safflower can be used as animal feeds, birds feed and in small quantity for ruminants feed as whole seeds or meals (Oelke et al., 1992). The seed contains nearly 35-50% oil, 15-20% protein, and 35-45% hull fraction (Betschart, 1975; Rahamatalla et al., 2001). It contains 72 percent linolenic acid, the factor which reduces blood cholesterol. Moreover, due to high content of unsaturated fatty acids and it is being used as an excellent drying oil for use in paints and varnishes (Ravi et al., 2008). In recent years, a lot of attention is being paid to nanotechnology with its research and applications for its beneficial effects. Nanoparticles with sizes typically below 100 nm, have been applied in several fields of bioscience and biomedicine with an increasing number of commercial applications. There','Elham Morteza, Payam Moaveni, Tayebeh Morteza, Hadi Saemi and Ali Joorabloo (2015). Effects of TiO2 (nano and bulk) foliar application on physiological traits and grain yield of Safflower (Carthamus tinctorius L.) Biological Forum â€“ An International Jou'),(4378,'117','Influence of drought stress on some characteristics of plants','Hamid Reza Fanaei, Habib Noori Sadegh, Tayebeh Yousefi and Mojdeh Farmanbar','274 HAMID REZA FANAEI.pdf','',1,'Drought is one of the most severe limitations on the yield of crops. This stress induces various biochemical and physiological responses in plants as a survival mechanism. In general, drought is responsible for several metabolic processes of plants, with photosynthetic apparatus. Drought have a direct impact on the photosynthetic apparatus, essentially by disrupting all major components of photosynthesis including the thylakoid electron transport, the carbon reduction cycle and the stomatal control of the CO2 supply, together with an increased accumulation of carbohydrates, peroxidative destruction of lipids and disturbance of water balance. Drought stress produced changes in the ratio of chlorophyll \'a\' and \'b\' and carotenoids. A reduction in chlorophyll content was reported in drought stress. The production of reactive oxygen species is a common phenomenon in plants under drought stress. These reactive oxygen species (ROS) generations led to lipid peroxidation, protein degradation an','ROS, Photosynthesis, Antioxidant enzymes, Proline, Hsps','Drought is one of the most severe limitations on the yield of crops. This stress induces various biochemical and physiological responses in plants as a survival mechanism. In general, drought is responsible for several metabolic processes of plants, with photosynthetic apparatus. Drought have a direct impact on the photosynthetic apparatus, essentially by disrupting all major components of photosynthesis including the thylakoid electron transport, the carbon reduction cycle and the stomatal control of the CO2 supply, together with an increased accumulation of carbohydrates, peroxidative destruction of lipids and disturbance of water balance. Drought stress produced changes in the ratio of chlorophyll \'a\' and \'b\' and carotenoids. A reduction in chlorophyll content was reported in drought stress. The production of reactive oxygen species is a common phenomenon in plants under drought stress. These reactive oxygen species (ROS) generations led to lipid peroxidation, protein degradation an','A. Stress\r\nStress is an altered physiological condition caused by factors that tend to disrupt the equilibrium. Strain is any physical and chemical change produced by a stress (Gaspar et al., 2002). The term stress is used with various meanings, the physiological definition and appropriate term as responses in different situations. The flexibility of normal metabolism allows the response initiation to the environmental changes, which fluctuate regularly and are predictable over daily and seasonal cycles. Thus every deviation of a factor from its optimum does not necessarily result in stress. Stress being a constraint or highly unpredictable fluctuations imposed on regular metabolic patterns cause injury, disease or aberrant physiology. Plants are frequently exposed to many stresses such as drought, low temperature, salt, flooding, heat, oxidative stress and heavy metal toxicity, while growing in nature (Gaspar et al., 2002).This article is review and the aim is influence of drought str','Hamid Reza Fanaei, Habib Noori Sadegh, Tayebeh Yousefi and Mojdeh Farmanbar (2015). Influence of drought stress on some characteristics of plants .Biological Forum â€“ An International Journal 7(1): 1732-1738.'),(4379,'117','Vegetative Growth and Ions Accumulation of Olive \r\n(Olea europaea Cv. Dezfol) Under Salinity Stress\r\n','Shima Alaei, Yasaman Darabi and Erfan Razmjoo','275 SHIMA ALAEI.pdf','',1,'A study was conducted to determine the salt tolerance of â€œDezfulâ€ olive and its effects on vegetative growth and ions accumulation (Na, Cl, K). The results indicated that increasing salinity level caused a decrease in shoot length, leaf area, shoot dry weight that were not significantly different at 5% level, DNMRT but at 200 mM salinity, leaf number difference and leaf chlorophyll content influenced significantly. Increasing of salinity level caused an increase in Na and Cl but a decreased in K:Na ratio in leaf, shoot and root. Sodium concentration was higher in the roots whereas Cl accumulation was higher in aerial parts.','Olive, Salinity, Ion, Growth, Dezful','A study was conducted to determine the salt tolerance of â€œDezfulâ€ olive and its effects on vegetative growth and ions accumulation (Na, Cl, K). The results indicated that increasing salinity level caused a decrease in shoot length, leaf area, shoot dry weight that were not significantly different at 5% level, DNMRT but at 200 mM salinity, leaf number difference and leaf chlorophyll content influenced significantly. Increasing of salinity level caused an increase in Na and Cl but a decreased in K:Na ratio in leaf, shoot and root. Sodium concentration was higher in the roots whereas Cl accumulation was higher in aerial parts.','INTRODUCTION\r\nOlive is native to the Mediterranean region, tropical and central Asia and various part of Africa. The olive, (Olea europea) is one of the oldest cultured trees that belong to the oleracea family. The growth and yield of most crop plants are highly sensitive to changes in the environment. Salinity is an important environmental stress for some plants. Soil salinity is a serious problem in arid and semiarid climates. Such as in the Mediterranean region, where plants are subjected to high temperature regimes and extreme water deficits during the dry season. Salinity is one of the main factors limiting crop productivity (Staples et al., 1984). Olive is a glycophytic species that have intermediate tolerance to salinity. Several studies have shown that olive is more tolerant than other fruit trees (Bartolini, et al., 1991, Tattini et al., 1992). Tattini et al., 1995). Previouse studies explained that Frantoio and Leccino cultivars had a different capacity to exclude Na+ and ','Shima Alaei, Yasaman Darabi and Erfan Razmjoo (2015). Vegetative Growth and Ions Accumulation of Olive (Olea europaea Cv. Dezfol) Under Salinity Stress .Biological Forum â€“ An International Journal 7(1): 1739-1741.\r\n'),(4380,'117','Seroprevalence of HIV among Hospital Based Patients around Indore with Research Recommendations ','Jaipal Singh Vishwakarma, Shubham Bhawsar and Kripal Singh Vishwakarma','276 JAIPAL SINGH VISHWAKARMA.pdf','',1,'Several useful reviews on the epidemiology of AIDS have been published. Our studies are focused on seroprevalence of HIV among hospital based patient in and around Indore. This study was conducted in the Department of Microbiology, Central Lab Indore, located at Yashvant Plaza in front of Railway station, Indore, with its associated CHL hospital (CHL). CHL is an 800 bedded multi especially tertiary care hospital, located at Nehru Nagar Indore, providing health care services to both rural and urban population of nearly 80 lakh, in and around Indore. A total number of 32534 patients of both gender, visiting the out patients department of Microbiology Central Lab, Indore for sacking medical treatment during the period of four year, that is, from April 2009 to March 2012, were included in the present study. These studies will check out the sensitivity and specificity of ALISA compared to Rapid tests. Research also include various data like retrospective analysis of HIV seropositivity data ','Hospital, Seroprevalence, HIV, AIDS','A total of 32534 patients of both genders and various age groups ranging from 1 year to 60 years above visiting to Central Lab Indore were tested for HIV by two different methods namely Rapid and ELISA test during a period of four years i.e. from April 2008-09 to March 2011-12, conclusions of the present study are as follows:\r\n \r\n Vishwakarma, Bhawsar and Vishwakarma 1748\r\n \r\n1. Out of 32534 patient tested, 400 were found Reactive for HIV, contributing to 1.22 % seropositivity.\r\n2. Among the HIV Reactive patient 1.43 % were male and 0.96 % were females.\r\n3. HIV seropositivity was found more in males as compared to females. It is evident from the present study that, the control and preventive measures should be aimed at 21-30 years group, that is young sexually age group.\r\nMore emphasis needs to be given on health education not only in schools and collages but there is a need to re','In the beginning AIDS was recognized in Africa through the study of patients with the disease, (Clumeck et al., (1983), Offenstadt et al., (1983), Clumeck (1984), Perre et al., (1984), Piot et al. (1984)) and the subsequent documentation of infection with the human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) (Bayley et al., (1985), Clumeck et al., (1985). Epidemiologic studies have used case surveillance (Mann et al. (1986), Bigger, (1986) and serologic surveys (Mann, et al., (1986), Melbye et al. (1986) to show the pattern of heterosexual transmission, (Mann et al. (1986) risk factors for acquisition, (Van de Perre et al. (1985), Kreiss et al. (1986), Van de Perre et al., (1987), Piot et al. (1987), Simonsen, et al., (1984), Nâ€™Galy et al. (1988), and the prevalence of infection. Several useful reviews on the epidemiology of AIDS have been published (Quinn et al., (1986), Mann et al., (1988), Piot and Carael (1988), Piot et al., (1986). Although intensive efforts have rightly focused on preventing','Jaipal Singh Vishwakarma, Shubham Bhawsar and Kripal Singh Vishwakarma (2015). Seroprevalence of HIV among Hospital Based Patients around Indore with Research Recommendations .Biological Forum â€“ An International Journal 7(1): 1742-1749.'),(4381,'117','In vitro Micropropagation of Stevia rebaudiana Bertoni','Nasrin Namdari, Lia Shooshtari and Ardshir Qaderi','277 LIA SHOOSHTARI.pdf','',1,'Stevia rebaudiana Bertoni is a herbaceous perennial plant, belonging to family Asteraceae. Stevia leaf extract exhibits a high degree of antioxidant activity and has been reported to inhibit human cancer cell growth. Plant tissue culture is a suitable approach for micro propagation and production of valuable secondary metabolites of plants. The aim of present study was to develop a suitable protocol for micro propagation of Stevia rebaudiana Bertoni. The experiment was conducted as a completely randomized design in a factorial arrangement (2 media Ã— 5 hormone concentrations = 10 treatments) with three replicates. Analysis of variance showed that the effect of activated carbon was significant (p < 0.05; or < 0.01) for all traits except the number of shoots. The results also showed significant differences among hormone concentrations in all traits except the mean number of node and axillary shoots. The significance of media Ã— hormone interaction suggests ','Stevia rebaudiana, micropropagation, activated carbon, hormone ','Stevia rebaudiana Bertoni is a herbaceous perennial plant, belonging to family Asteraceae. Stevia leaf extract exhibits a high degree of antioxidant activity and has been reported to inhibit human cancer cell growth. Plant tissue culture is a suitable approach for micro propagation and production of valuable secondary metabolites of plants. The aim of present study was to develop a suitable protocol for micro propagation of Stevia rebaudiana Bertoni. The experiment was conducted as a completely randomized design in a factorial arrangement (2 media Ã— 5 hormone concentrations = 10 treatments) with three replicates. Analysis of variance showed that the effect of activated carbon was significant (p < 0.05; or < 0.01) for all traits except the number of shoots. The results also showed significant differences among hormone concentrations in all traits except the mean number of node and axillary shoots. The significance of media Ã— hormone interaction suggests ','Stevia rebaudiana Bertoni is a perennial small shrub that belongs to the family Compositae. This medicinal plant has herbaceous growth habit and growing of plants require mild temperature and relative humidity of about 80% (Singh and Rao, 2005; Soliman et al., 2014). The leaves of stevia are the source of diterpene glycosides, stevioside and rebaudioside. Because of these components, this herb is a natural sweetener plant, estimated to be 300 times sweeter than sugar cane (Soejarto et al., 1982; Yoshida, 1986). Stevioside is regenerated as a valuable natural sweetening agent due to its relatively good taste and chemical stability. It is of special interest to diabetic persons with hyperglycemia and the diet conscious (Arpita et al., 2011; Toyoda et al.,1997). The seeds of this plant show very low(less than 10%), germination rates(Toffler and Orio 1981). In addition, due to self incompatibility which results in sterile seeds, the production of homogeneous populations is not ','Nasrin Namdari, Lia Shooshtari and Ardshir Qaderi (2015). In vitro Micropropagation of Stevia rebaudiana Bertoni Biological Forum â€“ An International Journal 7(1): 1750-1754.'),(4382,'117','Effect of Different Concentration of Salt and PEG Solution on Dracocephalum moldavica Seed Germination and Seedling Early Growth','Shima Alaei, Zahra Moradi Khibary and Amin Ahmadi Rad','278 SHIMA ALAEI-R.pdf','',1,'An experiment was carried out in a completely randomized design with 12 treatments and 3 replications. Polyethylene glycol was used at 0, 5, 10, 15, 20, 25 and 30 % concentrations with water potentials of 0, -0.03, -0.19, -0.41, -0.67, -0.99 and -1.35 MPa respectively. Salinity levels were 50, 75, 100, 150 and 200 mM. Seeds treated with -1.35MPa did not germinate. The seeds in -0.99 MPa water potential and 150 and 200 Mm salinity, did not produce seedlings. Increasing of salinity and water stress levels caused significant reduction in germination percentage, germination rate, seed vigor index and radicle and plumule length. The highest and least of seed germination percentage was concerned to control and 200Mm salinity treatment respectively. Germination rate showed significant reduction at -0.41, -0.67, -0.99 MPa water potential and 150 and 200 Mm of salinity. ','Dragonhead (Dracocephalum moldavica), water stress, salinity, Germination, Seedling Growth','Results of two experiment showed that increasing water and salinity stress decreased significantly germination rate, germination percentage, plumule and radical length. 0- 75 mM salinity was the best range for seed germination. At 100mM salinity, seeds 80.67% germinated and decreasing of germination percentage was not significant. 150 and mM salinity treatments were not suitable for seed germination of dragonhead. \r\nIt seems that in water and salinity stress condition between total characters, plumule length was more sensitive to water and salinity stress. Germination percentage of dragonhead seed was tolerant and decreased at -0.99MP water potential and 150mM salinity stress. Plumule growth need to more turgecence pressure in comparison with germination process. Decreasing of germination process in water stress condition depend to decreasing of water absorption. Decreasing of water absorption by seed in water stress condition cause decreasing of enzymes and hormones excretion cons','Dragonhead with scientific name of Dracocephalum moldavica from Lamiaceae family is one of the medicinal and aromatic plants that its essential oil uses widely in medicinal, food, cosmetic and health industrials. Dragonhead cultivated in different regions of Iran. It is a considerable plant for its high amount of essential oil. Its essential oil has antiseptic and antibacterial properties and is used for stomach-ache and bloat (Omidbaigi, 2000). \r\nWater and salinity stresses are two of the most environmental factors that regulate plant growth and development, and limit plant production. According to the results of Hassani\'s research (2006) if the water potential reduced, seed germination will be delayed or prevented.\r\nThe result of salinity stress on morphological characters of Cumimum. cyminum and Valeriana officinalis showed that by increasing salinity level percentage of germination, root length, shoot length, root dry weight, shoot dry weight, biomass and shoot/root ratio decreased','Shima Alaei, Zahra Moradi Khibary and Amin Ahmadi Rad (2015). Effect of Different Concentration of Salt and PEG Solution on Dracocephalum moldavica Seed Germination and Seedling Early Growth. Biological Forum â€“ An International Journal 7(1): 1755-1759.'),(4383,'117','Assessment of the tissue-culture induced variation in durum wheat (Triticum turgidum) under normal and osmotic stress conditions','Samaneh Shafiei, Lia Shooshtari and Alireza Etminan','279 LIA SHOOSHTARI.pdf','',1,'Durum wheat (Triticum turgidum L. var. durum) is a major crop with a high protein content that mainly used for the production of pasta and spaghetti. The induction of somaclonal variation is a way for widening the genetic variation. DNA-based markers are able to detect the somaclonal variation in plants. In the present study, six ISSR primers were used to investigate the genetic variation among different callus subcultures derived from embryo culture of durum wheat on MS medium supplemented with various concentration of mannitol. The results showed levels of genetic variation among samples and also, revealed that ISSR technique is a simple and suitable method for assessment of tissue culture induced variation in durum wheat.','Durum wheat, somaclonal variation, ISSR, mannitol','Durum wheat (Triticum turgidum L. var. durum) is a major crop with a high protein content that mainly used for the production of pasta and spaghetti. The induction of somaclonal variation is a way for widening the genetic variation. DNA-based markers are able to detect the somaclonal variation in plants. In the present study, six ISSR primers were used to investigate the genetic variation among different callus subcultures derived from embryo culture of durum wheat on MS medium supplemented with various concentration of mannitol. The results showed levels of genetic variation among samples and also, revealed that ISSR technique is a simple and suitable method for assessment of tissue culture induced variation in durum wheat. ','Durum wheat (Triticum turgidum L. var. durum) is a tetraploid (AABB, 2n = 4x = 28) species of wheat with high protein content and superior cooking quality (Dexter et al., 1990; Von Buren, 2001). Durum wheat is a major crop in the Mediterranean basin of West Asia, North Africa, and Southern Europe that mainly used for the production of pasta and spaghetti (Moragues et al., 2006).\r\nThe plant tissue culture includes various techniques used for callus induction, micropropagation, production of secondary metabolites and preservation of plants. Callus induction is an experimental method through which mass of cells is produced from an explants tissue. The callus tissue, as a source of totipotent cells can be utilized to regenerate plantlets by organogenesis or by embryogenesis or to extract some valuable secondary metabolites (Vyas and Dixit, 1999). Plant tissue culture as a technique of growing explants isolated from the mother plant is a suitable approach to prepare sufficient amount ','Samaneh Shafiei, Lia Shooshtari and Alireza Etminan (2015). Assessment of the tissue-culture induced variation in durum wheat (Triticum turgidum) under normal and osmotic stress conditions .Biological Forum â€“ An International Journal 7(1): 1760-1763.'),(4384,'117','Flood Zoning Simulation in Steady flow With Model of one-dimensional HEC-RAS and two-dimensional CCHE-2D (Case Study: Range River Shahar Chay)\r\n','Saeed Judisani, Edries Merufinia and Behzad Zehforosh','280 EDRIES MERUFINIA.pdf','',1,'The frequency of flood in recent decades causes that most parts of the country be exposed to destructive floods invasion and financial and life losses significantly be increased. Increase in population along with the lack of planning to exploit the land, destruction of forests and grasslands and also, development of impervious surfaces caused less water infiltration into the ground in water basins and flow faster to the downstream side. As a result, floods are more frequent, severe and sudden and inflict more damage. In this paper, a part of Brade Sur River in Urmia was selected and considering the importance of the above region, flood basins study and flood zoning in this area was selected as the necessity and objective of this study. In this study, flood capability of Brade Sur River basin in Urmia was evaluated using the techniques of GIS and HEC-HMS hydrologic model. Then, a reach of Brade Sur River in Urmia was hydraulically studied using the HEC-RAS hydraulic model and hydrograph','Flood Zoning, hydrological models, HEC-RAS and CCHE2D','The frequency of flood in recent decades causes that most parts of the country be exposed to destructive floods invasion and financial and life losses significantly be increased. Increase in population along with the lack of planning to exploit the land, destruction of forests and grasslands and also, development of impervious surfaces caused less water infiltration into the ground in water basins and flow faster to the downstream side. As a result, floods are more frequent, severe and sudden and inflict more damage. In this paper, a part of Brade Sur River in Urmia was selected and considering the importance of the above region, flood basins study and flood zoning in this area was selected as the necessity and objective of this study. In this study, flood capability of Brade Sur River basin in Urmia was evaluated using the techniques of GIS and HEC-HMS hydrologic model. Then, a reach of Brade Sur River in Urmia was hydraulically studied using the HEC-RAS hydraulic model and hydrograph','Despite of numerous improvements, man has not been able to predict and control the flooding phenomenon completely yet. Between the years 1973 to 1996 each year on average, 66 million people have been affected by the deleterious results of flooding, according to United nations Scientific and cultural Organization (UNESCO). It has also been reported, the floods that have been occurred from 1996 to 1987 in Asia have had more than 100 billion dollars economical damage. Unfortunately our country (Iran) is among the countries that suffer from flood. 40-year flooding statistics analysis (1331-1370) has shown that each year 47 floods an average happen in Iran and unfortunately 10572 people have died during this time. So it is essential to marked research about the flood management from different points of view (Mohammad Pour et al 2014).\r\nRivers and some intervals of the rivers from the physical and general behaviors are different and we rarely can find two same rivers. Therefore morphological','Saeed Judisani, Edries Merufinia and Behzad Zehforosh (2015). Flood Zoning Simulation in Steady flow With Model of one-dimensional HEC-RAS and two-dimensional CCHE-2D (Case Study: Range River Shahar Chay). Biological Forum â€“ An International Journal 7(1'),(4385,'117','Effectiveness of Dialectical Behavior Therapy (Distress Tolerance Skills, the Mindfulness and Regulation of Emotions) on the Self-esteem of high School Students','H. Nasizadeh, J. Babapour K. and N. Moheb','281 H. NASIZADEH.pdf','',1,'The purpose of this study was to investigate the efficacy of dialectical behavior therapy intervention, with the help of three skills of distress tolerance, the mindfulness, and regulation of emotion on the reduction of test anxiety symptoms among high school girls. This study was a quasi-experimental study with pretest and posttest and a control group. Among 412 high school girls out of five educational districts of Tabriz were sampled and 66 of them with high anxiety symptoms were put in two groups of experiment and control group (each group including 33). Eight sessions of group counseling based on dialectical behavior therapy (distress tolerance skills, mindfulness, regulation of emotions) were performed once a week for experiment group. Demographic characteristics questionnaires and test anxiety inventory (TAI) were used for data collection. Analysis of covariance using SPSS software was implemented to the results of experimental group and the control group for data analysis. The ','dialectical behavior therapy, test anxiety, distress tolerance, mindful, regulation of emotion','The present study investigates the efficacy of dialectical behavior therapy intervention (with three skills of distress tolerance, attending to cognition and regulation of emotions) was done to reduce the level of test anxiety. The findings suggest that participating in consoling meetings of dialectical behavior therapy was effective in reducing anxiety levels of students. In other words the results showed that the intervention implemented on the experiment group caused a significant reduction in test anxiety after the intervention program compared to the control program and to pre-test.\r\nThe results of the present study are in line with the findings of Ztl et al (2003), Haghayegh et al., (2012) and Hoffman, et al., (2011). It also in line with the findings of Ahmadi et al., (2012) in posttest part, but it was different with follow-up part. \r\nAccording to the same applied components used in the methods of dialectical behavior therapy intervention with rational-emotional behavioral ther','Test anxiety is a global phenomenon. Plurality of writings and studies in the past two decades indicate the importance of this issue and the special attention to this issue by different countries. The prevalence of test anxiety research results provided by Cassady (2010), test anxiety of students ranges from 25 to 40 percent. In a study done by Amirimajd and Shahmoradi (2008) on Iranian students the epidemiology of school anxiety was about 24%.\r\nDuring development, children and young adults experience various types of anxiety, especially school anxiety. One type of these anxieties is test anxiety. Test anxiety is a common and important educational phenomenon having a close relationship with performance and educational achievement of children and young adults. According to Ericson and Paul (1964) students have test anxiety. They have learned lesson subjects and materials well, but because of test anxiety, they are not able to express their knowledge in test session. Zeidner (1998) beli','H. Nasizadeh, J. Babapour K. and N. Moheb (2015). Effectiveness of Dialectical Behavior Therapy (Distress Tolerance Skills, the Mindfulness and Regulation of Emotions) on the Self-esteem of high School Students .Biological Forum â€“ An International Journ'),(4386,'117','Chemical Control of volunteer Licorice (Glycyrrhiza glabra L.) in rainfed wheat in Iran','Mozhgan Veisi','282 M VEISI.pdf','',1,'Licorice (Glycyrrhiza glabra L.) is a nuisance perennial weed in different crops especially rainfed wheat fields of Iran. Field experiments were conducted in Mahidasht and Sararood Agricultural Research Stations of Kermanshah province during 2007-2009 to study effect of post emergence applications of 2,4-D plus MCPA, Picloram, 2,4-D plus MCPA plus picloram and untreated control at three growth stages of G. glabra L.. Results indicated that 2,4-D plus MCPA at podding stage provided the best control of G. glabra L. density compared with other treatments in fallow rotation. In order to evaluate the herbicides effectiveness on G. glabra L. control in next rotation, wheat was planted over the sprayed plots. G. glabra L. dry weight had the lowest rate at blooming stage in the wheat. The application of 2,4-D plus MCPA caused the most reduction in G. glabra L. density and dry weight as well as the highest wheat yield in all treatments. ','Glycyrrhiza glabra L.; Chemical control; Application timing','Licorice (Glycyrrhiza glabra L.) is a nuisance perennial weed in different crops especially rainfed wheat fields of Iran. Field experiments were conducted in Mahidasht and Sararood Agricultural Research Stations of Kermanshah province during 2007-2009 to study effect of post emergence applications of 2,4-D plus MCPA, Picloram, 2,4-D plus MCPA plus picloram and untreated control at three growth stages of G. glabra L.. Results indicated that 2,4-D plus MCPA at podding stage provided the best control of G. glabra L. density compared with other treatments in fallow rotation. In order to evaluate the herbicides effectiveness on G. glabra L. control in next rotation, wheat was planted over the sprayed plots. G. glabra L. dry weight had the lowest rate at blooming stage in the wheat. The application of 2,4-D plus MCPA caused the most reduction in G. glabra L. density and dry weight as well as the highest wheat yield in all treatments. ','Licorice (Glycyrrhiza glabra L.) is a nuisance weed in rainfed and irrigated wheat and chickpea fields in western Iran. G. glabra L. frequency and mean density per meter square are 46.48 and 5.82 respectively in wheat fields of Kermanshah province (Veisi and Minbashi, 2005). Its rooting system consists of a tap-root and stolons which are underground organs of different histological nature, characterized by the presence of a pith cells containing storage substances, mostly starch and calcium oxalate crystals (Marzi et al., 1993a). More than a dozen Glycyrrhiza species are spread throughout Asia and the most commonly grown species is G. glabra L. (Gladyshev, 1991). It is a deep-rooted perennial weed that evacuates soil moisture. G. glabra L. consumes 20000 m3.ha-1 of water annually (Khaidarov, 1977). G. glabra L. not only competes with wheat and decreases its yield but also makes difficulties at harvest stage (Montazeri, 1985). G. glabra L. root can last, up to 15 years (Gladyshev, 1991)','Mozhgan Veisi (2015). Chemical Control of volunteer Licorice (Glycyrrhiza glabra L.) in rainfed wheat in Iran .Biological Forum â€“ An International Journal 7(1): 1784-1789 .'),(4387,'117','Effectiveness of Dialectical Behavior Therapy (Distress Tolerance Skills, Mindfulness, and Regulation of Emotion) on Achievement Anxiety among High School Students','H. Nasizadeh, J. Babapour K. and N. Moheb','283 H. NASIZADEH.pdf','',1,'The purpose of this study was to investigate the efficacy of dialectical behavior therapy intervention, with the help of three skills of distress tolerance, the mindfulness, and regulation of emotion on the reduction of test anxiety symptoms among high school girls. This study was a quasi-experimental study with pretest and posttest and a control group. Among 412 high school girls out of five educational districts of Tabriz were sampled and 66 of them with high anxiety symptoms were put in two groups of experiment and control group (each group including 33). Eight sessions of group counseling based on dialectical behavior therapy (distress tolerance skills, mindfulness, regulation of emotions) were performed once a week for experiment group. Demographic characteristics questionnaires and test anxiety inventory (TAI) were used for data collection. Analysis of covariance using SPSS software was implemented to the results of experimental group and the control group for data analysis. The ','dialectical behavior therapy, test anxiety, distress tolerance, mindful, regulation of emotion','The present study investigates the efficacy of dialectical behavior therapy intervention (with three skills of distress tolerance, attending to cognition and regulation of emotions) was done to reduce the level of test anxiety. The findings suggest that participating in consoling meetings of dialectical behavior therapy was effective in reducing anxiety levels of students. In other words the results showed that the intervention implemented on the experiment group caused a significant reduction in test anxiety after the intervention program compared to the control program and to pre-test.\r\nThe results of the present study are in line with the findings of Ztl et al (2003), Haghayegh et al., (2012) and Hoffman, Brown, Forman, Herbert and Yuan (2011). It also in line with the findings of Ahmadi, Salehi and Bahrami (2012) in posttest part, but it was different with follow-up part. \r\nAccording to the same applied components used in the methods of dialectical behavior therapy intervention wit','Test anxiety is a global phenomenon. Plurality of writings and studies in the past two decades indicate the importance of this issue and the special attention to this issue by different countries. The prevalence of test anxiety research results provided by Cassady (2010), test anxiety of students ranges from 25 to 40percent. In a study done by Amirimajd and Shahmoradi (2008) on Iranian students the epidemiology of school anxiety was about 24%.\r\nDuring development, children and young adults experience various types of anxiety, especially school anxiety. One type of these anxieties is test anxiety. Test anxiety is a common and important educational phenomenon having a close relationship with performance and educational achievement of children and young adults. According to Ericson & Paul (1964) students have test anxiety. They have learned lesson subjects and materials well, but because of test anxiety, they are not able to express their knowledge in test session. Zeidner (1998) believes','H. Nasizadeh, J. Babapour K. and N. Moheb (2015). Effectiveness of Dialectical Behavior Therapy (Distress Tolerance Skills, Mindfulness, and Regulation of Emotion) on Achievement Anxiety among High School Students .Biological Forum â€“ An International Jo'),(4388,'117','Four Ecotypes of Mentha pipertia in Iran; Phytochemical study','Amin Hadipanah, Aysan Ghahremani, Kazem Aghaee, Mahmoudreza Zolfaghar and Hamidreza Ardalani\r\n','284 HAMIDREZA ARDALANI.pdf','',1,'Peppermint (Mentha piperita L.) belongs to the Lamiaceae family is an herb medicinal and aromatic perennial. The aim of this study was to identification of the phytochemical components of Peppermint cultivated in Iran climatic conditions. The study carried out in Isfahan, Chaharmahal and Bakhtiari provinces, Central and Southwest of Iran, on 2014. The essential oils of samples were obtained by hydro-distillation, and analysed by GC/MS. The major constituents of the essential oil Saman were menthol (47.36%), menthone (12.96%), menthofuran (7.26%), menthyl acetate (6.89%) and 1,8-cineole (6.86%). The major constituents of the oil Kuhrang were menthol (41.42%), menthone (15.25%), menthofuran (10.85%), 1,8-cineole (8.38%) and menthyl acetate (5.71%). The major constituents of the oil Kamu were menthol (38.67%), menthone (18.68%), menthofuran (8.24%), Isomenthone (6.82%) and menthyl acetate (5.24%). The major constituents of the oil Chadegan were menthol (44.68%), menthone (14.35%), menthof','(Mentha piperita L.), chemical composition, ecotypes, phytochemical study, peppermint','A comparison of our results with different reports, differences in the volatile composition of the plants could be attributed to genetic (genus, species, and ecotype), chemotype, distinct environmental and climatic conditions, seasonal sampling periods, geographic origins, plant populations, vegetative plant phases, and extraction and quantification methods.','Peppermint (Mentha piperita L. belongs the family Lamiaceae, is one of the most important medicinal and aromatic plants which used in food, sanitary and cosmetic industries. The leaves of peppermint are strongly scented due to the presence of essential oils. Peppermint is widely used for its medicinal properties such as anti-spasmodic, anti-sickness, anti-helminthic, carminative, and stomachic, etc. Peppermint cultivated in the temperate, Mediterranean and subtropical regions of the world (Nostro et al., 2000; Ormancey et al., 2001). Peppermint (Mentha piperita L.) which is tetraploid (2n = 72), is a sterile natural hybrid of M. aquatica L. (2n = 96) and M. spicata L. (2n = 48) (Tucker, 1992). The plant is a perennial with 50-60 cm tall. The square stems are usually reddish-purple and smooth. The leaves are short, oblong-ovate and serrate. The flowers are purple-pinkish and appear in the summer months. The plant has runners above and below ground (Yazdani et al., 2003; Mozaffarian, 200','Amin Hadipanah, Aysan Ghahremani, Kazem Aghaee, Mahmoudreza Zolfaghar and Hamidreza Ardalani (2015). Four Ecotypes of Mentha pipertia in Iran; Phytochemical study .Biological Forum â€“ An International Journal 7(1): 1796-1801.\r\n '),(4389,'117','Diversity in Chemical Composition and Yield of Essential oil from Three Ecotypes of Sweet Basil (Ocimum basilicum L.) in Iran','Amin Hadipanah, Aysan Ghahremani, Mojtaba Khorrami and Hamidreza Ardalani','285 AMIN HADIPANAH.pdf','',1,'Sweet basil (Ocimum basilicum L.) belong to the family Lamiaceae. The aim of this study was to identification of the components of sweet basil cultivated in Iran. The study carries out in Isfahan provinces, Central of Iran, on 2014. The essential oils of samples were obtained by hydro-distillation, and analyzed using GC/MS. The essential oil yields were obtained from the aerial of O. basilicum, 0.68, 0.71 and 0.96 ml / 100 g dry matter identified in Baghe-Bahadoran, Shahreza and Falavarjan province, respectively. In total, 30, 32 and 38compounds were identified in Baghe-Bahadoran, Shahreza and Falavarjan province, respectively. The major constituents of the oil Baghe-Bahadoranwere methyl chavicol (58.35%), neral (11.64%), linalool (9.34%) and 1,8-cineole (4.13%).The major constituents of the oil Shahreza were methyl chavicol (45.82%), linalool (17.31%), neral (13.21%), 1,8-cineole (5.73%), geranial (5.84%) and the major constituents of the oil Falavarjan were methyl chavicol (62.69%), ','Ocimum basilicum L, chemical composition, methyl chavicol','In conclusion, the results obtained in our study indicated that the major components of the oil of O. basilicum collected from three ecotypes were methyl chavicolorestragole, linalool, 1,8-cineole, neral. Differences in the essential oils of studied O. basilicum could be attributed to genetic, chemotype, distinct environmental and climatic conditions.','Sweet basil (Ocimum basilicum L.) belong to the family Lamiaceae is an annual, herbaceous, white to purple flowering plant, 20-60 cm tall, that originated in Iran and India. The genus Ocimum includes 50-150 species and subspecies (Labra et al., 2004), distributed throughout the tropical regions of Asia, Africa and Central and South America (Mozaffarian, 2008). O. basilicum (2n = 48), is an important medicinal plant and culinary herb which is used in treatment of headaches, diarrhea, coughs, warts, worms and kidney malfunctions (Bais et al., 2002; Rai et al., 2004).\r\nSecondary metabolites from Ocimum species possess exceptional biological activity and have antioxidant (Kwee and Niemeyer, 2011) and antimicrobial (Annand et al., 2011), bactericidal (Haniff et al., 2011), repellent (Nerioet al., 2010), anticonvulsant (Freire et al., 2006), chemo preventive and radioprotective effects (Gajula et al., 2009).\r\nThe essential oil from the aerial parts of O. basilicum consists of a wide and vary','Amin Hadipanah, Aysan Ghahremani, Mojtaba Khorrami and Hamidreza Ardalani (2015). Diversity in Chemical Composition and Yield of Essential oil from Three Ecotypes of Sweet Basil (Ocimum basilicum L.) in Iran .Biological Forum â€“ An International Journal '),(4390,'117','The Effects of Meta B Sodium Sulfite Sheets on the System of Decay Control of Sahebi and La\'al dried raisins in Cold Store','H. Farrokhy, A. Dadar and A. Asgharzadeh','286 SOMAYEH MIRSHEKARI.pdf','',1,'In order to study the effects of sheets containing Meta B sodium sulfite on the system of decay control of la\'al and Sahebi dried raisins, in 2010 this research based on a completely random design was conducted in the cold store of Vocational Training Center of Shirvan in 3 repetitions and 3 courses of treatment as a factorial test. The harvest of grapes was done on September 11. After precooling and separating the contaminated, rotten, and infected berries, some sheets of grape guards with Meta B sodium sulfite at 7%, 10% and 13% concentration were placed in the bottom and middle of every box containing 5 kg of grapes. Boxes were carried to the cold store in zero temperature at relatively 90% and 95% of humidity and kept there for 12 weeks. Once every 4 weeks some samples were randomly chosen and their characters like peduncle length, length and width bunch, length and width of berry, mean weight of berry, and bunch weight were measured. At the end of the 12th week the remaining sulfu','grape, fungi infection, decay control, Meta B sodium sulfite','In order to study the effects of sheets containing Meta B sodium sulfite on the system of decay control of la\'al and Sahebi dried raisins, in 2010 this research based on a completely random design was conducted in the cold store of Vocational Training Center of Shirvan in 3 repetitions and 3 courses of treatment as a factorial test. The harvest of grapes was done on September 11. After precooling and separating the contaminated, rotten, and infected berries, some sheets of grape guards with Meta B sodium sulfite at 7%, 10% and 13% concentration were placed in the bottom and middle of every box containing 5 kg of grapes. Boxes were carried to the cold store in zero temperature at relatively 90% and 95% of humidity and kept there for 12 weeks. Once every 4 weeks some samples were randomly chosen and their characters like peduncle length, length and width bunch, length and width of berry, mean weight of berry, and bunch weight were measured. At the end of the 12th week the remaining sulfu','Grape is one of the most important Garden products in Iran and world and all commercial varieties in Iran are like this kind. According to the 2005 World Food grocery, the area under cultivation is 7320445 Hectare that is Seventh place in the world in Iran. Grape production in the world is about 66413393 Ton with operation average 9072 Kilogram that Iran is in Sixth place because of 2/8 million Ton production. In addition, according to the published statistics by Ministry of agriculture in 1380, Fars by having 26 percent and Khorasan with19 percent of the area\'s vineyards are in first and second level respectively. But in terms of the rate of production, Khorasn has the highest production among Iran\'s Provinces. Fungal diseases of crops after harvest are the most important factor in degradation and corruption and economically, losses due to disease is very important. The economic value of losses after harvesting fruit is more than harvesting in gardens, because for the cost of post-har','H. Farrokhy, A. Dadar and A. Asgharzadeh (2015). The Effects of Meta B Sodium Sulfite Sheets on the System of Decay Control of Sahebi and La\'al dried raisins in Cold Store .Biological Forum â€“ An International Journal 7(1): 1806-1810.'),(4391,'117','Nutritional and Biochemical Response of Water-stressed Valerian Plants to Foliar Application of Spermidine','Seyed Hamid Mustafavi, Fariborz Shekari, Yousef Nasiri and Hamid Hatami-Maleki','287 SEYYED HAMID MUSTAFAVI.pdf','',1,'The objective of this study was to determine the effect of foliar spermidine (Spd) application on biochemical and nutritional response of valerian grown under different water stress (100, 70, 50 and 30% Available water content). The study was conducted in a pot experiment under greenhouse conditions. Water -stressed valerian seedlings were treated with foliar Spd application at different concentrations (0, 0.5 and 1 mM).The results showed that water stress significantly affected most biochemical and physiological characteristics as well as nutritional status of valerian plants. Leaf relative water content, chlorophyll a and b contents decreased while carotenoids and electrolyte leakage increased with the increase of water stress. Nutritional imbalance was also observed in water-stressed plants. For the ameliorating the adverse effect of water stress, among the investigated defense traits, plants increased proline levels and catalase and ascorbate peroxidase activities. Foliar applicati','Antioxidant enzyme, mineral content, osmotic adjustment, photosynthetic pigment, water deficit','The objective of this study was to determine the effect of foliar spermidine (Spd) application on biochemical and nutritional response of valerian grown under different water stress (100, 70, 50 and 30% Available water content). The study was conducted in a pot experiment under greenhouse conditions. Water -stressed valerian seedlings were treated with foliar Spd application at different concentrations (0, 0.5 and 1 mM).The results showed that water stress significantly affected most biochemical and physiological characteristics as well as nutritional status of valerian plants. Leaf relative water content, chlorophyll a and b contents decreased while carotenoids and electrolyte leakage increased with the increase of water stress. Nutritional imbalance was also observed in water-stressed plants. For the ameliorating the adverse effect of water stress, among the investigated defense traits, plants increased proline levels and catalase and ascorbate peroxidase activities. Foliar applicati','Drought is one of the major constraints limiting crop production worldwide which decreases crop productivity more than any other environmental stress (Lambers et al. 2008). Under drought stress, growth and function suppression in plants involves many morphological, physiological and molecular changes including oxidative stress, metabolic disturbance (Li et al. 2013). Plants respond to adverse conditions by altering their morphology, physiology, and biochemistry, however, biochemical events mainly take place earlier than others.\r\nPolyamines, including putrescine (Put), spermidine (Spd), and spermine (Spm), are low molecular weight natural compounds with aliphatic nitrogen structure, and exist in almost all organisms from bacteria to animals and plants (Hussainet al.2011). For plant growth and development, polyamines are widely implicated in cell division and differentiation, root elongation, leaf senescence, programmed cell death, DNA synthesis and protein translation (Shi and Chan 201','Seyed Hamid Mustafavi, Fariborz Shekari, Yousef Nasiri and Hamid Hatami-Maleki (2015). Nutritional and Biochemical Response of Water-stressed Valerian Plants to Foliar Application of Spermidine. Biological Forum â€“ An International Journal 7(1): 1811-181'),(4392,'117','The investigation of the effect of planting date on agronomic characteristics Cumin (Cuminum cyminum L.) ecotypes in sistan conditions','Habib Noori Sadegh, Reza Baradaran and Hamid Reza Fanaei','288 REZA BARADARAN.pdf','',1,'One of the medicinal plants which can be placed in the cultivation pattern of dry and semi-dry zones under water shortage conditions is cumin. Cumin with scientific name Cuminum cyminum is an annual plant of Umbelliferae. Since environmental factors explicitly influence growth and development and yield of medicinal herbs, studying the effect of these factors, e.g. sowing date and plant density, on medicinal herbs is crucially important. Planting date management not only has a large effect on crop growth, development, and yield but it also impacts insect pest management. These research investigations were planned in agricultural research center of Zahak located in eastern part of Zabol in 2011-2012. The investigation was consisted of date of planting as the main factor in five levels (Nov.15th,Dec. 5th, Dec. 25th, Jan. 15th,Feb. 5h) and different ecotypes of cumin as the subordinate factor in three levels (Zabol, Birjand, Kerman). Analysis of variance showed that the effect of planting ','Plant height, Harvest Index, Seed yield, Biological yield','One of the medicinal plants which can be placed in the cultivation pattern of dry and semi-dry zones under water shortage conditions is cumin. Cumin with scientific name Cuminum cyminum is an annual plant of Umbelliferae. Since environmental factors explicitly influence growth and development and yield of medicinal herbs, studying the effect of these factors, e.g. sowing date and plant density, on medicinal herbs is crucially important. Planting date management not only has a large effect on crop growth, development, and yield but it also impacts insect pest management. These research investigations were planned in agricultural research center of Zahak located in eastern part of Zabol in 2011-2012. The investigation was consisted of date of planting as the main factor in five levels (Nov.15th,Dec. 5th, Dec. 25th, Jan. 15th,Feb. 5h) and different ecotypes of cumin as the subordinate factor in three levels (Zabol, Birjand, Kerman). Analysis of variance showed that the effect of planting ','Cumin (Cuminum cyminum L.), a member of Apiaceae, is an annual plant which is originated from Egypt and East Mediterranean. But it is widely cultivated in Iran, Japan, China and Turkey. At the present, Iran is an important cumin exporter in the world market and cumin production of Iran is approximately 20- 40% of world market (Kafi, M. 2003). One of the medicinal plants which can be placed in the cultivation pattern of dry and semi-dry zones under water shortage conditions is cumin. Cumin with scientific name Cuminum cyminum is an annual plant of Umbelliferae. Shape of leaves, plantes, color, and cover of plant organs all indicate the adaptability of the plants to dry conditions. The depth of root of the plant is between 12 and 15cm showing that the water required for the plant growth is not provided from the soil depth rather the main part of it is supplied from the shallow soil alternatively got wetted by the light precipitations (Kafi, 2002). Cumin has a long history of use as food ','Habib Noori Sadegh, Reza Baradaran and Hamid Reza Fanaei (2015). The investigation of the effect of planting date on agronomic characteristics Cumin (Cuminum cyminum L.) ecotypes in sistan conditions .Biological Forum â€“ An International Journal 7(1): 18'),(4393,'117','Determination of Imatinib and its Genotoxic Impurities in Tablets','Fatma Ghrib, Aymen Chtioui, Taieb Saied and Nizar Bellakhal','289 FATMA GHRIB.pdf','',1,'The determination of Imatinib Mesylate and its genotoxic impurities were achieved using a new, simple and sensitive liquid chromatographic method. The analyses were performed using the analytical column Zorbax Eclipse XDB C18 (250 Ã— 4.6 mm, 5 Âµm). Mobile phase was composed of 30 mM octane sulphonic acid in 10 mM aqueous KH2PO4 (pH 2.3) and Acetonitrile. An isocratic mode was adopted for the assay and a gradient one for the degradation. Detection was performed on both Photodiode Array and DUAL UV-Vis detectors at 267 nm for the assay and 234 nm for the degradation study. The two methods were validated in terms of specificity, linearity, accuracy, repeatability and intermediate precision. The limit of detection and quantification were calculated for the degradation essay.','Imatinib Mesylate; genotoxic impurities; assay; method validation; anticancer drugs','Both HPLC methods developed in this study allow the determination of Imatinib Mesylate and its two impurities in the coated tablets. The methods are applicable for qualitative and quantitative Imatinib Mesylate coated tablets. Both have the advantage of being simple, specific, linear, accurate and precise. The obtained results are confirmed by statistical parameters and no interference of the excipients was noted. When compared to previous reported studies in literature, the obtained results appeared to be rapid and highly selective. ','As novel synthesized drug, there are only few methods in the literature for Imatinib Mesylate quantification in pharmaceutical dosage forms (Medenica et al., 2004, Rosasco et al., 2005, Ivanovic et al., 2004) and for its purity evaluation in bulk drug (Vivekanand et al., 2003). It was approved by US Food and Drug Administration (FDA) in 2001(Habeck, 2002). and it is recently official in European Pharmacopoeia as active substance only in April 2015. \r\nImatinib Mesylate is a protein-tyrosine kinase inhibitor. It is useful for the treatment of chronic myelogenous leukemia (CML), gastrointestinal stromal tumors (GISTs) and some other diseases (Ksienski, 2010). It is designated chemically as 4-[(4-Methyl-1-piperazinyl) methyl]-N-[4-methyl-3-[[4-(3-pyridinyl)-2-pyrimidinyl] amino]-phenyl] benzamide methanesulfonate with empirical formula C29H31N7O.CH4O3S. His chemical structure is given in Fig.1. The usual tablet dose is 100 mg and 400 mg.\r\nThis work is made in order to develop and valida','Fatma Ghrib, Aymen Chtioui, Taieb Saied and Nizar Bellakhal (2015). Determination of Imatinib and its Genotoxic Impurities in Tablets .Biological Forum â€“ An International Journal 7(1): 1820-1827.'),(4394,'117','Influence of planting date on Phenological Characteristics of Cumin (Cuminum cyminum L.) Ecotypes in Sistan conditions','Habib Noori Sadegh, Reza Baradaran and TayebehYousefi','290 REZA BARADARAN.pdf','',1,'Cumin (Cuminum cyminum L.) is an annual plant belongs to family apiaceae and it is grown for production of the dry ripe fruits. It was known to the ancient Egyptian as a spice and medicinal plant. In addition to its common use as spice in our daily life, recent studies have indicated its pharmaceutical and medicinal importance. Planting date is one of the most important agronomic factors involved in producing high yielding small grain cereal crops, which affects the timing and duration of the vegetative and reproductive stages. The field experiment was laid out split plot with factorial design with three replications. The investigation was consisted of date of planting as the main factor in five levels and different ecotypes of cumin as the subordinate factor in three levels (Zabol, Birjand, Kerman). Analysis of variance showed that the effect of planting date on all characteristic (except during the flowering period) was significant.','germination, flowering, physiological maturity','Cumin (Cuminum cyminum L.) is an annual plant belongs to family apiaceae and it is grown for production of the dry ripe fruits. It was known to the ancient Egyptian as a spice and medicinal plant. In addition to its common use as spice in our daily life, recent studies have indicated its pharmaceutical and medicinal importance. Planting date is one of the most important agronomic factors involved in producing high yielding small grain cereal crops, which affects the timing and duration of the vegetative and reproductive stages. The field experiment was laid out split plot with factorial design with three replications. The investigation was consisted of date of planting as the main factor in five levels and different ecotypes of cumin as the subordinate factor in three levels (Zabol, Birjand, Kerman). Analysis of variance showed that the effect of planting date on all characteristic (except during the flowering period) was significant.','Medicinal plants play a major role in the provision of health care around the world (Timmermans, 2003). Production of medicinal plants are confronting with climatic limitations such as, drought, salinity in arid and semiarid regions. Psyllium plant known as Plantago psyllium has gained importance as herbal medicine around the world due to its medicinal properties. Recently it has obtained agricultural importance because of its wide use in pharmaceutical and food grade industries worldwide (Li et al., 2005). Cumin (Cuminum cyminum L.) is an annual plant belongs to Family Apiaceae and it is grown for production of the dry ripe fruits. It was known to the ancient Egyptian as a spice and medicinal plant. In addition to its common use as spice in our daily life, recent studies have indicated its pharmaceutical and medicinal importance (Aruna and Sivaramakrishnan, 1996). At the present, Iran is an important cumin exporter in the world market and cumin production of Iran is approximately 20- ','Habib Noori Sadegh, Reza Baradaran and TayebehYousefi (2015). Influence of planting date on Phenological Characteristics of Cumin (Cuminum cyminum L.) Ecotypes in Sistan conditions .Biological Forum â€“ An International Journal 7(1): 1828-1832.'),(4395,'117','On the Larval Food of Saproxylic Beetle Glycyphana horsfieldi Hope\r\n (Coleoptera: Scarabaeidae: Cetoniinae) \r\n','G.P. Bhawane, Y.B. Gaikwad and A.B. Mamlayya','291 DR. A.B. MAMLAYYA.pdf','',1,'The species of Glycyphana Burmiester (Coleoptera: Scarabaeidae: Cetoniinae) visits the flowers of many garden plants. This communication records the incidence of the grubs of Glycyphana horsfieldi Hope in dead branches of Albizia lebbeck and Samanea saman. In all 8 larvae and 4 pupal cells were obtained from the dead wood of Albizia lebbeck and Samanea saman.','Grubs, Cetoniinae, Kolhapur, Oriental region, Shivaji University, Kolhapur','The species of Glycyphana Burmiester (Coleoptera: Scarabaeidae: Cetoniinae) visits the flowers of many garden plants. This communication records the incidence of the grubs of Glycyphana horsfieldi Hope in dead branches of Albizia lebbeck and Samanea saman. In all 8 larvae and 4 pupal cells were obtained from the dead wood of Albizia lebbeck and Samanea saman. ','The scarab genus Glycyphana (Scarabaeidae: Cetoniinae) includes 11 species from Indian Subcontinent but the species are well distributed in the oriental region. Mature reproductive forms range in size from 8.5 to 17 mm. and they are usually velvety black, deep red, olive green (Arrow, 1910). \r\nNo information is available on the ecological requirements of the species except that adults are frequenting the flowers of various plants. Glycyphana horsfieldi Hope seems to occur in greater part of India with particularly variable forms. The form found in Himalayan region is small and narrow with small golden triangular elytral patches. The form from Sri Lanka is usually larger and broader with the large golden patches. The adults of Glycyphana horsfieldi Hope were known to visit the flowers of Hibiscus (Arrow, 1910). Beeson (1941) reported that the grubs of G. horsfieldi feed on rotten wood of Bombax insigne and Chloroxylon swietenia. Tiwari et al., (1991) reported Glycyphana horsfieldi from ','G.P. Bhawane, Y.B. Gaikwad and A.B. Mamlayya (2015). On the Larval Food of Saproxylic Beetle Glycyphana horsfieldi Hope (Coleoptera: Scarabaeidae: Cetoniinae) . Biological Forum â€“ An International Journal 7(1): 1833-1835.\r\n'),(4396,'117','Examining the Effectiveness of the best Herbicide on weed Management of Lepyrodiclis (Lepyrodiclis holosteoides L.)','Babak Maghsoudi Damavandi, Sara Shirzad and Seyed Mehdi Mirtaheri','292 SEYED MEHDI MIRTAHERI.pdf','',1,'A factorial experiment was conducted in a completely randomized design with four repetitions in order to determine the proper herbicide for the purposes of lepyrodiclis controlling. The examined herbicides included Total, Atlantis, Bromicide, and Duplosan Super with surfactant (5cc per 1 L) consumption and without consuming it. The result of examining the effect of the type of the herbicide on EWRC trait indicated that Bromicide herbicide, with and without surfactant consumption, has maximum effect on managing weeds with a 76 percentage control over them. Moreover the use of Bromicide can significantly affect the amount of the wet matter of the weeds. Examining the dry matter of the weeds specified that like Bromicide, Duplosan super, with and without surfactant consumption, significantly affects controlling the dry matter of weeds. The results of the application of the relevant herbicides specified that Bromicide significantly affects control over wet and dry substances of lepyrodicl','Weeds, Bromicide, surfactant, dry matter','Carrying out roper operations for controlling the weeds requires thorough and precise understanding of the plant, cultivation management systems and many environmental parameters affect the weed controlling operations (Rashed Mohassel et al., 1996). It is clear that using Bromicide with and without surfactant and Duplosan super with and without surfactant, and Total with surfactant were the best weed control treatments based on the results of percentage of live plants, dry and fresh weight of weed after application of herbicides against lepyrodiclis. On the other hand application of surfactant in this study was not meaningful effect on efficiency of herbicides.','INTRODUCTION \r\nOne of the ways of increasing agricultural products is preventing the losses caused by the weeds. The amount of damage to the agricultural products made by the weeds has determined to be 45 percent (Rahimiyan, 1996). Many weeds play host to pests and diseases and so they are considered agents which spread the pests and diseases within the field. The existence of weeds makes harvesting the crops difficult as well. Creeping weeds such as cleavers (Galium aparine), black bindweed (Polygonum convolvulus), and Vicia villosa attach themselves to the grains and lead to verse and eventually a decrease in the plant\'s performance (Foster et al. 1998). The narrow leaf weeds (50 percent) and broad leaf weeds (50 percent) competing with wheat during its growth period increases the product\'s performance by 25 percent (Appleby 1992). Fast growth rate and the aggression of weeds leads to the essential food being absorbed by them rather than by the crops (Gill et al., 2000). Nitrogen, ph','Babak Maghsoudi Damavandi, Sara Shirzad and Seyed Mehdi Mirtaheri (2015). Examining the Effectiveness of the best Herbicide on weed Management of Lepyrodiclis (Lepyrodiclis holosteoides L.).Biological Forum â€“ An International Journal 7(1): 1836-1839.'),(4397,'117','Investigation Effect of Flooding and Burial Depth on Germination and Percentage of Lepyrodiclis holosteoides Fenzl','Seyed Mehdi Mirtaheri, Saeed Vazan, Mohammad Ali Baghestani, Farzad Paknejad and Ghasem Tohidloo\r\n','293 SAEED VAZAN.pdf','',1,'Lepyrodiclis is one of the most problematic weeds in wheat and canola in several regions of Iran. Laboratory studies were conducted at laboratory of department of Weed Research, Iranian Research Institute for Plant Protection in 2013. The study was established on two separate experiments based on complete randomized design (CRD) with 4 replications. Flooding stress included (0, 1, 2, 4, 8, 16 and 32days) and burial depth included (0.5, 1, 1.5, 2, 2.5, 3, 3.5, 4, 4.5, 5, 5.5, 6, 6.5 cm).The results showed that flooding stress had a significant influence on germination percentage and germination rate of Lepyrodiclis. According to the other experiments, burial depth had a significant influence on emergence percentage of Lepyrodiclis. The results on mean comparison showed that the emergence percentage and germination percentage of lepyridiclis decreased when burial depth and flooding time increased, respectively.\r\n\r\n',' Lepyrodiclis, germination and emergence percentage, burial depth, flooding stress','Lepyrodiclis is one of the most problematic weeds in wheat and canola in several regions of Iran. Laboratory studies were conducted at laboratory of department of Weed Research, Iranian Research Institute for Plant Protection in 2013. The study was established on two separate experiments based on complete randomized design (CRD) with 4 replications. Flooding stress included (0, 1, 2, 4, 8, 16 and 32days) and burial depth included (0.5, 1, 1.5, 2, 2.5, 3, 3.5, 4, 4.5, 5, 5.5, 6, 6.5 cm).The results showed that flooding stress had a significant influence on germination percentage and germination rate of Lepyrodiclis. According to the other experiments, burial depth had a significant influence on emergence percentage of Lepyrodiclis. The results on mean comparison showed that the emergence percentage and germination percentage of lepyridiclis decreased when burial depth and flooding time increased, respectively.\r\n\r\n','Farmers need satisfactory ways to relate levels of weed infestation to reductions in crop yields to decide whether weed control is economical (Aldrich, 1987). Knowledge of weed biology has aroused interest in the context of weed management strategies in the recent years (Bhowmik 1997).\r\nEcological factors have been shown to play a major role by inducing or inhibiting germination including light (BallareÂ´ et al. 1992), temperature (Lablance et al, 2003), soil water content (Gummerson, 1986), flooding (Pana et al, 2008) and soil depth (Holm 1972; Stoller and Wax 1973).\r\nThe biological reason for depth inhibition has not yet been fully clarified (Benvenuti, et al, 2001). Previous studies suggest that this may not only be merely due to lack of light (Benvenuti 1995), but also to decreasing thermal fluctuation and increasing burial depth, as thermal fluctuation constitutes a known germination trigger (Roberts and Totterdell1981). Higher plants have an absolute requirement for oxygen for gr','Seyed Mehdi Mirtaheri, Saeed Vazan, Mohammad Ali Baghestani, Farzad Paknejad and Ghasem Tohidloo (2015). Investigation Effect of Flooding and Burial Depth on Germination and Percentage of Lepyrodiclis holosteoides Fenzl .Biological Forum â€“ An Internatio'),(4398,'117','Scale surface structure of Mugil cephalus (Teleostei; Mugilidae) using Scanning Electron Microscopy (SEM)','Humera Zahid, Nagina Bano, Zubia Masood, Musarrat Ul-Ain, Rehana Yasmeen Farooq and Wajeeha Razaq','294 ZUBIA MASOOD.pdf','',1,'As fish scale contain numerous microstructures that could be helpful for fish identification such as, ctenii, position of focus, circuli, annuli and radii. Therefore, in the present study, a traditional approach was made for studying in detail the structures of scales from a mullet species, Mugil cephalus (family Mugilidae). Samples were purchased from market of joint road, Quetta, Balochistan. During the study period extends from August 2014 to December 2014, total length of all collected specimens was ranged from 12.5-17.5 cm, respectively. From each fish, scales were taken from the three different body regions i.e., HS (head scales), CS (caudal scales) and TRS (transverse row scales) in order to analyzed the variation in the microstructures on the scales. The scales have been subjected to scanning electron microscope (SEM) for the study of microstructures of scales in detail. Thus, from the result of the present study, it had been proved that in addition to external morphological ch','Mugil cephalus, scale surface structure, scanning electron microscopy (SEM)','Thus, from the study of scale structure of fishes, it was concluded that the M. cephalus of our present study can easily identified on the basis of position of the focus, which is more centrally located as compare to the other mullet species and confirmed the importance of scale study in Taxonomy. Hence, our present study has also confirmed the worth of fish scales use in taxonomy.\r\n \r\n\r\n','Fishes of the family â€œMugilidaeâ€ hare known by the name of â€œgrey mulletsâ€ or more simply by â€œmulletsâ€. A mugilid, Mugil cephalus is known as â€œFlathead mulletâ€ that is widely distributed throughout the world (Nelson, 2006; Froese and Pauly, 2011).\r\nFish scales are dermal outgrowths and very useful in fish taxonomy (Kaur and Dua, 2004), separate various groups of fishes, understand the feeding habits of fishes (Lekuona et al.,1998; Campos et al., 2002). Tzeng et al.(1994) reported that fish scale as useful tool to understand the life history of a fish such as, age composition, growth rate, at first maturity. Scales have been used phylogenetic relationships, systematic classification sexual dimorphism by some workers including Kobayashi (1953), Dulce-Amor, et al. (2010), Esmaeli et al.(2012) and Zubia et al. (2015). Agassiz (1833-34) was the first who use the fish scales for taxonomy and divided fishes into four groups: Placoidei, Ganoidei, Ctenoidei and Cycloidei. Recentl','Humera Zahid, Nagina Bano, Zubia Masood, Musarrat Ul-Ain, Rehana Yasmeen Farooq and Wajeeha Razaq (2015). Scale surface structure of Mugil cephalus (Teleostei; Mugilidae) using Scanning Electron Microscopy (SEM) .Biological Forum â€“ An International'),(4399,'117','Evaluation of drought Tolerance in Sunflower (Helianthus annuus L.) Inbred Lines and Synthetic Varieties under Non Stress and Drought Stress Conditions','Seyed Mehdi Safavi, Azam Sadat Safavi and Seyed Afshin Safavi','295 SEYED MEHDI SAFAVI.pdf','',1,'To evaluate some of agronomic and physiological characteristics under drought stress, determining the best quantitative indices for drought resistance, and identifying drought resistant of sunflower genotypes, field experiment with 15 sunflower genotypes was carried out in 2014 at the research farm of Dryland Agricultural Research Institute (Sararood). 15 genotypes of sunflower were tested based on Randomized Complete Blocks Design (RCBD) with three replications in under two different water conditions at flowering and seed development stages. Some of agronomic and physiological characteristics under drought stress were measured during the growing season. Based on the results of correlation between drought indices with seed yield in stress and non-water stress environment, stress tolerance index (STI), mean productivity (MP), Geometric mean productivity (GMP), harmonic mean (HAR) and yield index (YI) exhibited a high correlation with seed yield in either environment. These indices were ','Correlation analysis, Biplot analysis, drought tolerance, cluster analysis','To evaluate some of agronomic and physiological characteristics under drought stress, determining the best quantitative indices for drought resistance, and identifying drought resistant of sunflower genotypes, field experiment with 15 sunflower genotypes was carried out in 2014 at the research farm of Dryland Agricultural Research Institute (Sararood). 15 genotypes of sunflower were tested based on Randomized Complete Blocks Design (RCBD) with three replications in under two different water conditions at flowering and seed development stages. Some of agronomic and physiological characteristics under drought stress were measured during the growing season. Based on the results of correlation between drought indices with seed yield in stress and non-water stress environment, stress tolerance index (STI), mean productivity (MP), Geometric mean productivity (GMP), harmonic mean (HAR) and yield index (YI) exhibited a high correlation with seed yield in either environment. These indices were ','Drought is one of the major physical factors of environmental stresses which limits growth and distribution of natural vegetation more than that of any other factors viz. extreme temperature, cold, heavy metals, drought and salinity (Athar and Ashraf, 2005). Drought stress determines the success or failure of plant establishment. The adverse effects of drought on growth and development of crop plants are of multifarious nature and could affect at all the growth stages of plant growth. The susceptibility, severity and duration of plants exposition to drought stress varies in dependence of stress degree, different accompanying stress factors, plant species and their developmental stages but germination is regarded as most critical stage of plant life (Demirevska et al., 2009).\r\nCrop responses to drought stresses involve processes modulated by water deficit at morphological, anatomical, cellular and molecular levels. The changes which occur in all plant organs in response to water stress ','Seyed Mehdi Safavi, Azam Sadat Safavi and Seyed Afshin Safavi (2015). Evaluation of drought Tolerance in Sunflower (Helianthus annuus L.) Inbred Lines and Synthetic Varieties under Non Stress and Drought Stress Conditions .Biological Forum â€“ An Internat'),(4400,'117','Evaluation the effect of micronutrients on herbicide mixture 2, 4-D + MCPA, Bromoxynil + MCPA and Tribenoron-methyl efficacy in wheat (Triticum aestivum)','Peyman Sabeti','296 PEYMAN SABETI.pdf','',1,'In order to investigate the effects of different micronutrients on Bromoxynil, 2,4-D + MCPA, Bromoxynil + MCPA and Tribenoron-methyl efficacy in wheat, a field study was conducted in Research farm of Islamabad Research center, Kermanshah, Iran during 2009-2010. The first factor was three levels of herbicides including 2, 4-D + MCPA at 1.5 lit.ha-1, Bromoxynil + MCPA at 1.5 L ha-1 and tribenoron-methyl at 20 g ha-1. The second factor was seven levels of several micronutrients including iron, Molybdenum, nitrogen, zinc, copper and manganese. Experiment was carried out as randomized complete block design with four replications. The fertilizers and herbicides were applied in at tiller stage of wheat. The results of this study showed that the efficacy of Bromoxynil + MCPA on broadleaf weeds was partially better followed by 2,4-D + MCPA and tribenoron-methyl. Tank-Mixturing of fertilizers with examined herbicides had no negative effects on herbicide phytotoxicity. Therefore, the tank mixture','Iron, Molybdenum, Nitrogen, Zinc, Copper and Manganese','In order to investigate the effects of different micronutrients on Bromoxynil, 2,4-D + MCPA, Bromoxynil + MCPA and Tribenoron-methyl efficacy in wheat, a field study was conducted in Research farm of Islamabad Research center, Kermanshah, Iran during 2009-2010. The first factor was three levels of herbicides including 2, 4-D + MCPA at 1.5 lit.ha-1, Bromoxynil + MCPA at 1.5 L ha-1 and tribenoron-methyl at 20 g ha-1. The second factor was seven levels of several micronutrients including iron, Molybdenum, nitrogen, zinc, copper and manganese. Experiment was carried out as randomized complete block design with four replications. The fertilizers and herbicides were applied in at tiller stage of wheat. The results of this study showed that the efficacy of Bromoxynil + MCPA on broadleaf weeds was partially better followed by 2,4-D + MCPA and tribenoron-methyl. Tank-Mixturing of fertilizers with examined herbicides had no negative effects on herbicide phytotoxicity. Therefore, the tank mixture','Wheat (Triticum aestivum L.) is one of the most important cereal crops of the world and has great effect on the economic stability of the developing countries which its yield decreased by 30 to 80% due to weeds (Tawaha et al., 2002; Zimdahl, 2007).Chaudhry et al. (2008) reported that when weeds are allowed to compete for 50 days after sowing of crop, they can reduce grain yield significantly. About 22 different herbicide ingredients have been registered in Iran to control weeds in wheat fields from which eight of them are suitable for broadleaf killer and five of them are dual purpose (Zand et al., 2007). All of the herbicide that which have been registered for application in wheat fields of Iran are post emergence (at tillering stage) which is coincide with utilization of microelements. Generally, Zn and Fe deficiencies have been reported as the most widespread micronutrient deficiencies world-wide (Lucca et al., 2001; Welch, 2002). Micronutrients deficiency has became a major constra','Peyman Sabeti (2015). Evaluation the effect of micronutrients on herbicide mixture 2, 4-D + MCPA, Bromoxynil + MCPA and Tribenoron-methyl efficacy in wheat (Triticum aestivum) .Biological Forum â€“ An International Journal 7(1): 1855-1858 .'),(4401,'117','Spatial Variability of Soil Microbial Respiration in Eastern Hyranian Forests','Hashem Habashi','297 HASHEM HABASHI @ ESMAIL.pdf','',1,'Soil spatial variability has explained as soil quality. Spatial variability could be interpreted by variography analysing. In eastern Hyrcanian forest, we examined soil microbial respiration variability in two different bed rocks and forest types to understand what controls spatial variability. For this purpose, 398 sample points specified by random transect method were selected and soil microbial respiration determined by closed bottle test. Samples were classified in two different bed rocks and forest types, and then variogram model fit to each other. Spatial structure was defined by nugget to sill ratio and cross validation done by MBE, RMSE and MSDR indices. Results do not show significant difference between bed rocks or forest types. So we test different hypothesis. Spatial structure and cross validation in virgin forest compared with managed forest. 81% of structural variance of SMR defined in virgin forest that have more spatial dependence than managed. We conclude virginity is ','Soil microbial respiration, Variability, Variogram, Virgin forest','Soil spatial variability has explained as soil quality. Spatial variability could be interpreted by variography analysing. In eastern Hyrcanian forest, we examined soil microbial respiration variability in two different bed rocks and forest types to understand what controls spatial variability. For this purpose, 398 sample points specified by random transect method were selected and soil microbial respiration determined by closed bottle test. Samples were classified in two different bed rocks and forest types, and then variogram model fit to each other. Spatial structure was defined by nugget to sill ratio and cross validation done by MBE, RMSE and MSDR indices. Results do not show significant difference between bed rocks or forest types. So we test different hypothesis. Spatial structure and cross validation in virgin forest compared with managed forest. 81% of structural variance of SMR defined in virgin forest that have more spatial dependence than managed. We conclude virginity is ','Forest soil respirations are the result of heterotrophic respiration by microorganisms and soil fauna and autotrophic respiration by roots associated with mycorrhizae. The contribution of each element needs to be understood to evaluate implications of environmental change on soil carbon cycling and sequestration. Published data indicated that root/rhizosphere respiration can account for as little as 10 percent to greater than 90 percent of total soil respiration depending on vegetation type and season of the year (Hanson et al., 2000). In the other hand, studies which have integrated percent microbial contribution to total soil respiration show mean values of 54.2 percent for forest soil. Also the contribution rate of soil microbial respiration (SMR) to the total soil respiration reported between 41.3% and 70.3%, indicating that SMR is a major component of soil respiration (Bowden et al., 1993). Anyway in natural Oak forest SMR consisted 20% of soil respiration (Kelting et al., 1997).\r','Hashem Habashi (2015). Spatial Variability of Soil Microbial Respiration in Eastern Hyranian Forests .Biological Forum â€“ An International Journal 7(1): 1859-1864 .'),(4402,'117','Determining of Growth and Yield Performance in some Olive Cultivars in Warm Conditions','Isa Arji','298 ISA ARJI.pdf','',1,'The present study was carried out for three successive seasons 2007, 2008 and 2009 on eight years old of 7 olive cultivars to understand yield performance and growth response to warm and dry environmental condition of Sarpole Zehab, Kermanshah, Iran. The obtained results showed that all measured characteristics were significant different between cultivars. Roghani had the highest height and canopy volume with fewer trunks cross sectional area, while Shenge had the lowest height and canopy volume. Sevillano and Koroneiki produced the highest cumulative yield over a 3-year period. The lowest alternate bearing index (ABI) was from Koroneiki and Sevillano but Baladi, Mari and Roghani had the highest. Fruit weight was from small to medium size in cultivars. The highest flesh to pit ration was observed in Sevillano. Cultivars with the higher fruit dry percent had the higher oil content like Roghani; all evaluated cultivars had low oil percent in warm climate except to Roghani. Generally Zard','Olive (Olea europaea L.,); warm climate; oil percent; Iran.','The present study was carried out for three successive seasons 2007, 2008 and 2009 on eight years old of 7 olive cultivars to understand yield performance and growth response to warm and dry environmental condition of Sarpole Zehab, Kermanshah, Iran. The obtained results showed that all measured characteristics were significant different between cultivars. Roghani had the highest height and canopy volume with fewer trunks cross sectional area, while Shenge had the lowest height and canopy volume. Sevillano and Koroneiki produced the highest cumulative yield over a 3-year period. The lowest alternate bearing index (ABI) was from Koroneiki and Sevillano but Baladi, Mari and Roghani had the highest. Fruit weight was from small to medium size in cultivars. The highest flesh to pit ration was observed in Sevillano. Cultivars with the higher fruit dry percent had the higher oil content like Roghani; all evaluated cultivars had low oil percent in warm climate except to Roghani. Generally Zard','Olive (Olea europaea L.) tree is an evergreen native to the Mediterranean region. Some olive genotypes are grown as wild in different region of Iran like Kermanshah province in the west of Iran. There are more than 40 native olive standing genotypes in subtropical region of Kermanshah province like sarpole Zehab, Gilane Gharb and Paveh. In recent years, due to higher olive oil demand, the cultivation of olive has been expanded in various regions of Iran. However, the cultivation of olive tree is limited because of harsh environmental conditions and water scarcity in most of the new olive plantation areas (Arji and Arzani, 2008). The limitation of water as well as long hot summers in the regions lead to poor fruit and oil quality (Khaleghi et al., 2015; Saadati et al., 2013). Despite good vegetative growth, some of the olive varieties do not show good performance. This is due to lack of compatible and stable cultivars in such environmental conditions. \r\nIt is very important to know abou','Isa Arji (2015). Determining of Growth and Yield Performance in some Olive Cultivars in Warm Conditions .Biological Forum â€“ An International Journal 7(1): 1865-1870 .'),(4403,'117','The Sterile Insect Technique and Inherited Sterility in Lepidoptera','Kabir Eyidozehi, Mohammad Akram Hoodiani Fanooj and Azizollah Mokhtari ','299 KABIR EYIDOZEHI.pdf','',1,'The sterile insect technique (SIT) is an environment-friendly pest control technique with application in the area-wide integrated control of key pests, including the suppression or elimination of introduced populations and the exclusion of new introductions. It involves the colonization and mass rearing of the target pest species, sterilization of the insects through the use of gamma radiation, and their release into the field on a sustained basis and in sufficient numbers to achieve appropriate sterile to wild insect over flooding ratios. F1 inherited sterility Technique One approach to reduce the negative effects of radio-resistance in Lepidoptera has been the use of inherited.','SIT, Inherited Sterility, Lepidoptera, insect pest','The sterile insect technique (SIT) is a very efficient control tactic for creating pest-free areas or areas of low pest prevalence within such AW-IPM programmes. A previous CRP on Lepidoptera SIT focused on improvements of codling moth SIT to facilitate its\' expansion in the field. Further development of the SIT to target other key lepidopteran pests requires improvements that increase the quality control of mass-rearing, irradiation, shipping, release and field assessment activities. Relevant knowledge and know-how on the behaviour and ecology of codling moth was gained thereby, which were instrumental in increasing the efficiency of the integrated application of the SIT against this major insect pest. Moreover, the CRP has considerably advanced the basic genetic knowledge of the codling moth in relation to the development of genetic sexing strains in Lepidoptera and stimulating R and D by several laboratories in this field. Finally, collaboration among and between researchers in gene','INTRODUCTION\r\nA. Lepidopteran insect pest\r\nLepidoptera species are among the most destructive pests of major annual and perennial crops, forests, and stored products throughout the world. More than 25% of the species that appear on a list of the 300 most important exotic insects that threaten the United States are in the order Lepidoptera (Carpenter, 2009). In a supplement to that list, where the 30 most serious threats to Agriculture are named, 50% of the species are lepidopterans (Brockerhoff et al., 2012). Unfortunately, control of lepidopteran pests worldwide is achieved almost entirely through the use of synthetic insecticides. \r\nThis dependence on insecticides has contributed to the development of insecticide resistance in many of the most serious pests. Relevant examples include the codling moth, Cydia pomonella (Lepidopera: Tortricidae) (Varela et al. 1993; Carpenter et al., 2013), and the diamondback moth, Plutella xylostella (Lepidoptera: Plutellidae), where resistance has de','Kabir Eyidozehi, Mohammad Akram Hoodiani Fanooj and Azizollah Mokhtari (2015). The Sterile Insect Technique and Inherited Sterility in Lepidoptera .Biological Forum â€“ An International Journal 7(1): 1871-1874.'),(4404,'117','Host Plant Resistance (HPR) to Insect Pests','Kabir Eyidozehi, Mohammad Akram Hoodiani Fanooj and Azizollah Mokhtari ','300 KABIR EYIDOZEHI.pdf','',1,'Conventional breeding in conjunction with molecular techniques and transgenic approaches have a great promise to reduce pest associated crop losses, and accelerate the progress in developing cultivars with resistance to insects. Although, considerable progress has been made over the past two decades in manipulating genes from diverse sources to develop plants with resistance to insect pests, rapid and cost effective development and adoption of biotechnology derived products will depend on developing a full understanding on the interaction of genes within their genomic environment, and with the environment in which their conferred phenotype interact. A good beginning has been made in developing genetic linkage maps of many crops, but the accuracy and precision of phenotyping for resistance to insect pests remains a critical constraint in many crops. ','resistance to insect, Genetic Resistance, Cytoplasmic Male-Sterility, RNAi','Conventional breeding in conjunction with molecular techniques and transgenic approaches have a great promise to reduce pest associated crop losses, and accelerate the progress in developing cultivars with resistance to insects. Although, considerable progress has been made over the past two decades in manipulating genes from diverse sources to develop plants with resistance to insect pests, rapid and cost effective development and adoption of biotechnology derived products will depend on developing a full understanding on the interaction of genes within their genomic environment, and with the environment in which their conferred phenotype interact. A good beginning has been made in developing genetic linkage maps of many crops, but the accuracy and precision of phenotyping for resistance to insect pests remains a critical constraint in many crops. ','A. Identification sources of resistance to insect \r\nOver the past five decades, a large proportion of the world sorghum germplasm collection has been evaluated for resistance to insect pests, and a number of lines with resistance to major insect pests have been identified (Sharma et al. 1992, 2003). However, cultivars with resistance to insect pests are cultivated by farmers only on a limited scale due to an overemphasis by national programs on grain yield as a criterion for release of cultivars. Several new sources of insect resistance have been identified and supplemented to the existing resistance sources against corn earworm, H. zea, corn borer, O. nubilalis, sugarcane borer, Diatraea grandiosella (Dyar), fall armyworm, Spodoptera frugiperda (Smith), and spotted stem borer, Chilo partellus (Swinhoe) in maize (Kanta et al., 1997); brown plant hopper, N. lugens, gall midge Orseolea oryzae (Wood-Mason), and stem borers, Scirpophaga incertulas (Walker) and Chilo suppressalis (Walker) ','Kabir Eyidozehi, Mohammad Akram Hoodiani Fanooj and Azizollah Mokhtari (2015). Host Plant Resistance (HPR) to Insect Pests .Biological Forum â€“ An International Journal 7(1): 1875-1879.'),(4405,'117','The Relation between Personality Characteristics and Emotional Intelligence of Elite Female Swimmers Participating in Iran championships','Mozhgan Comaji, Mehdi Kohandel and Kambiz Kamkari','301 MEHDI KOHANDEL.pdf','',1,'The aim of this study is to investigate the relation between personality characteristics and emotional intelligence of elite female swimmers participating in Iran championship. The research methodology is correlative and the data has been collected through field study. Concerning the small size statistical population, the samples have been all tested. Thus, 75 female swimmers participating in Iran championships in 2014 have been selected. Pearson correlation coefficient has been used to investigate the relation between variables. The measuring instrument includes personality specification scale (Arostertz and Debron Stain, 1981) and Emotional intelligence scale (Siber or Shrink, 1986). The results showed that there is no meaningful relation between emotional intelligence and power-seeking trait (p = 0.523, r = 0.143); moreover, meaningful positive relation was obtained between emotional intelligence and success-seeking feature (p = 0.001, r = 0.428). At the end, positive meaningful rel','Personality characteristics, emotional intelligence, elite female swimmers ','Meaningful positive was seen between emotional intelligence and personality traits of success seeking and feeling of belonging. However, no relation was observed between emotional intelligence and power-seeking feature. In fact, the results indicate that in individuals that have personality traits of success seeking and feeling of belonging and probably higher emotional intelligence, increased incline of individual to these traits leads to increased emotional intelligence. This finding is in line with Heidari Pour (2013), Aslankhani (2008), Kajbaf Nejad (2010), and Freeland (2007). In these studies, the relation between emotional intelligence and some personality traits have been approved. \r\nIt might be the case that with increase of emotional intelligence, the probability of using emotion-based style also increases. These individuals are more emotional and have incline toward making emotional and friendly relations. It might be that the probability of using emotion-based style at the','Nowadays, with increased investment in professional sport, improvement of sport performance has been more considered. The growing increase and development of sport environment has led to increased motivation for presence in sport environment and investigation of the effects of personality, emotion and stress that each has manifested new challenges for players and coaches. The study and investigation of sport performance and organizational behavior makes it clear that personality, emotion and even stress usually influence sport processes and outcomes. Thus, the researchers have introduced emotional intelligence and knowledge of personality characteristics of athletes to study and search the best instrument for management of stressful sport environments in various levels. Those who make use of their emotional intelligence are usually more compatible with the surrounding environment and high self-esteem and are well-informed of their abilities (Bar, 2010, Aghayar and Sharifi Daramadi 2010','Mozhgan Comaji, Mehdi Kohandel and Kambiz Kamkari (2015). The Relation between Personality Characteristics and Emotional Intelligence of Elite Female Swimmers Participating in Iran championships. Biological Forum â€“ An International Journal 7(1): 1880-18'),(4406,'117','The Effect of Twelve Sessions of Swimming Program on the Self-concept of Male Addicts under Treatment','Mehraban Mohammad, Hajirasouli Masoud and Khodayari Abbas','303 HAJIRASOULI MASOUD.pdf','',1,'Addiction to narcotics is one of the individual and social damages which makes the individual physical and mentally dependent on drugs and influences their behaviors. Every community incurs many expenses each year in addiction control programs. In this research we will study the effect of twelve training sessions of swimming on the self-concept of addicts under treatment. This research is quasi-experimental and conducted as a field study. A convenient sample of 20 subjects was selected from the male addicts referring to addiction control centers of Tehran province congress 60. Each sample filled out the Beck standard self-concept test (1978) and participated in twelve swimming training sessions and filled out the tests after completion of these twelve sessions. Finally, data was analyzed by Kolmogorov-Smirnov test for normalcy of data distribution and paired-sample t test in significance level 0.05 through SPSS 22. Results of self-concept at significance level ?= 0.05 indicated that th','Self-concept, Swimming training, Addicts','Addiction to narcotics is one of the individual and social damages which makes the individual physical and mentally dependent on drugs and influences their behaviors. Every community incurs many expenses each year in addiction control programs. In this research we will study the effect of twelve training sessions of swimming on the self-concept of addicts under treatment. This research is quasi-experimental and conducted as a field study. A convenient sample of 20 subjects was selected from the male addicts referring to addiction control centers of Tehran province congress 60. Each sample filled out the Beck standard self-concept test (1978) and participated in twelve swimming training sessions and filled out the tests after completion of these twelve sessions. Finally, data was analyzed by Kolmogorov-Smirnov test for normalcy of data distribution and paired-sample t test in significance level 0.05 through SPSS 22. Results of self-concept at significance level ?= 0.05 indicated that th','Drug abuse and dependence is a chronic and recurrent disorder with biological, cultural, psychological, social, behavioral and spiritual effects (Dabaghi et al., 2008). Various addictive substances with different characteristics and influences on the physiologic and neural systems of human have tranquilizing or triggering effects. Therefore, addictive substances can be categorized in two general groups of \"Addictive\" or reducing C.N.S. activities and \"stimulant\" which increase the function of central nervous system. It seems that the addictive substance is essential for normal cellular function and its interruption may cause changes in physiologic processes and hence deprivation symptoms which lead to unpleasant physical and psychological moods known as \"hangover\". As concerns narcotics addiction, sports and physical activities can be useful by improving physiological characteristics such as improvement of cardiovascular condition, physical fitness, bone density, muscular strength, in','Mehraban Mohammad, Hajirasouli Masoud and Khodayari Abbas (2015). The Effect of Twelve Sessions of Swimming Program on the Self-concept of Male Addicts under Treatment .Biological Forum â€“ An International Journal 7(1): 1890-1893.'),(4407,'117','The Efficacy of Massage therapy and corrective exercises on indicators of postural scoliosis of girls 8-14 years','Hadis Soltani Nejad, Yahya Sokhanguei and Alireza Rahimi','304 YAHYA SOKHANGUEI.pdf','',1,'This study aims to study the efficacy of corrective exercises and a combination of corrective exercises and massage therapy on measures of postural scoliosis of girls. The study population includes postural scoliosis of girls 8 to 14 years with a mean age (11/64Â±1/67 years) in Tehran. Of those, 45 were selected voluntary and purposeful to participate in this study. Subjects were divided in the control group (n = 15) and two experimental groups consist of a group of corrective exercises and massage therapy (15 subjects) and a group that only underwent corrective exercises (n = 15). Two experimental groups performed the selective exercises exercise (a corrective exercise with massage therapy and a group of corrective exercise only) for 6 weeks (three sessions per week). Before and after training, the dependent variables, including flexibility, lateral flexion, height, shock angle along the spinal vertebrae, difference between the shoulders, the level of PSIS, angles different of the low','Corrective exercises, Massage therapy, Scoliosis.','This study aims to study the efficacy of corrective exercises and a combination of corrective exercises and massage therapy on measures of postural scoliosis of girls. The study population includes postural scoliosis of girls 8 to 14 years with a mean age (11/64Â±1/67 years) in Tehran. Of those, 45 were selected voluntary and purposeful to participate in this study. Subjects were divided in the control group (n = 15) and two experimental groups consist of a group of corrective exercises and massage therapy (15 subjects) and a group that only underwent corrective exercises (n = 15). Two experimental groups performed the selective exercises exercise (a corrective exercise with massage therapy and a group of corrective exercise only) for 6 weeks (three sessions per week). Before and after training, the dependent variables, including flexibility, lateral flexion, height, shock angle along the spinal vertebrae, difference between the shoulders, the level of PSIS, angles different of the low','Scoliosis is one of the most common forms of spinal deformations in adolescents and adults that in three dimensions continue to expand, leading to curves in the frontal plane and vertebral rotation in horizontal plane. Scoliosis is the lateral deviation of the spine in simple definition that is often associated with rotation. It is generally agreed that it refers the curves less than 25Â° Cobb of mild curvature, 25 to 45 degrees of mean curvature and higher than 45Â° Cobb of sever curvature. Scoliosis Can be functional or structural, about 70% to 80% of scoliosis is asymptomatic (Negrini et al., 2006, Soderberg, 1997, Otman and Kose 2005, Hawes, 2003, Hamm, 2006, Werner, 2002, Hertling, 2006). \r\nScoliosis can cause problems such as disability, functional limitations, pain, progression of curvature and physical deformities, mental ill-effects; the decline in the quality of life and in severe cases the respiratory problems (Weinstein, 2003). It is believed that the strong correlation be','Hadis Soltani Nejad, Yahya Sokhanguei and Alireza Rahimi (2015). The Efficacy of Massage therapy and corrective exercises on indicators of postural scoliosis of girls 8-14 years .Biological Forum â€“ An International Journal 7(1): 1894-1899.'),(4408,'117','Incidence of Anterior Cruciate Ligament Injury in Collegiate male Soccer and volleyball player','Kasbparast Jr. Mehdi, Alireza Rahimi, Fariba Aghaei and Alireza Shokrgozar','305 KASBPARAST JR. MEHDI.pdf','',1,'In this study tried to investigate the prevalence of incidence of anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) injury in collegiate male soccer and volleyball. Because it seems the injury in ACL is more common in soccer and volleyball players. The anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) is one of the most commonly disrupted ligaments in the knee. Male college athletes have higher rates of anterior cruciate ligament injury. Rates of anterior cruciate ligament injuries for men in collegiate in two sports activity have not been examined. Understanding anterior cruciate ligament injury incidence in soccer and volleyball, a contact and non-contact sport for men, could further injury prevention efforts. Data were collected from Sports Cultural Olympiad male students 2012-2014 and analyzed to compare anterior cruciate ligament injuries in male college soccer and volleyball athletes from the questionnaire (n=447) and through interviews with injured players. Our results indicate volleyball players are a high-risk','anterior cruciate ligament, collegiate, injury','In this study tried to investigate the prevalence of incidence of anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) injury in collegiate male soccer and volleyball. Because it seems the injury in ACL is more common in soccer and volleyball players. The anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) is one of the most commonly disrupted ligaments in the knee. Male college athletes have higher rates of anterior cruciate ligament injury. Rates of anterior cruciate ligament injuries for men in collegiate in two sports activity have not been examined. Understanding anterior cruciate ligament injury incidence in soccer and volleyball, a contact and non-contact sport for men, could further injury prevention efforts. Data were collected from Sports Cultural Olympiad male students 2012-2014 and analyzed to compare anterior cruciate ligament injuries in male college soccer and volleyball athletes from the questionnaire (n=447) and through interviews with injured players. Our results indicate volleyball players are a high-risk','The anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) is one of the most commonly disrupted ligaments in the knee. The injury of the ACL is a typical injury of the knee joint that occurs during sports activities. The ACL is the primary passive restraint against anterior tibial translation and hyperextension of the knee. As a secondary stabilizer, it restrains the varus and valgus as well as internal and external stresses on the knee (Butler et al.,1980). It acts like a guide rope during knee extension from flexion (roll-and-glide mechanism of the knee). It averages 31-38 mm in length and 8-11 mm in width (Girgis et al., 1975) and is not a single cord but a collection of fascicles that fan out over a broad flattened area, with a wider and stronger tibial than femoral attachment (Furman et al., 1976). The injury of the ACL is a typical injury of the knee joint that occurs during sports activities (Arendt and Dick 1995, Bjordal et al., 1997, Gray et al., 1986). \r\n It has been well recognized that multi','Kasbparast Jr. Mehdi, Alireza Rahimi, Fariba Aghaei and Alireza Shokrgozar (2015). Incidence of Anterior Cruciate Ligament Injury in Collegiate male Soccer and volleyball player .Biological Forum â€“ An International Journal 7(1): 1900-1903.'),(4409,'117','Effect of One-period of SEAS exercises on Some Spinal Biomechanical and Postural Parameters in the Students with Idiopathic Scoliosis','Zandi Ahmad, Sokhangouei Yahya and Saboonchi Reza','306 SOKHANGOUEI YAHYA.pdf','',1,'The academics paid more attention to individual health given the thriving machine lifestyle and increasing tendency toward this lifestyle. Identification of these abnormalities in various organs sometimes leads to corrective exercises in order to improve these abnormalities. Spinal scoliosis can be cited as one abnormality. There are two types of scoliosis in terms of etiology; one with a known cause and the other one with an unknown cause. SEAS exercises are one of the most widely used treatments for these patients. The present study aimed to examine the effect of one-period of SEAS exercises on some postural and biomechanical spinal parameters in the students with idiopathic scoliosis. Materials and methods: This was an applied and semi-experimental survey. The statistical population consisted of the students with idiopathic scoliosis in Tehran Province among which 30 students were selected using convenience sampling method. They were divided into two control and SEAS exercises group','SEAS exercises, idiopathic scoliosis, hyper extension of the spine, side flexion of the spine','The results showed that SEAS exercises use the muscles involved in patients with idiopathic scoliosis and effectively improve postural and biomechanical parameters. Studies indicated physical deformation of the student. These deformations are usually severe and can be reformed with a series of corrective exercises. \r\n \r\n\r\n\r\n Ahmad, Yahya and Reza 1909\r\n \r\nThe issues relevant to correct posture among school children are considered in the developed world. Nowadays, many students suffer from mild lateral abnormalities in spine. Familiarity with SEAS exercises and correct application of these exercises can reduce severity of deformity or cure the disorder. Thus, these exercises can prevent incidence of other complications related to spinal disorders and their impacts on individual functionality or other joints. Familiarity with SEAS exercises in the field','Nowadays, the academics pay more attention to individual health given the thriving machine lifestyle affecting physical organs. Research on healthy organs is the topic of many studies whether from the mechanical or physiological aspects (Fusco et al., 2011). Reviewing and identifying weaknesses in different organs sometimes leads to corrective exercises in order to improve these weaknesses. The physical disorders in childhood and adolescence not properly addressed will cause many acute and chronic pains in adulthood (Maruyama et al., 2002). Spinal scoliosis can be cited as one anomaly in this regard. There are two types of scoliosis in terms of etiology; one with a known cause and the other one with an unknown cause. The one with an unknown cause is called idiopathic scoliosis. The incidence of this complication is from 75% to 85% (Alizadeh, 2012). SEAS exercises can be used to treat this anomaly. These exercises reduce asymmetrical forces imposed on the spine curve. These exercises','Zandi Ahmad, Sokhangouei Yahya and Saboonchi Reza (2015). Effect of One-period of SEAS exercises on Some Spinal Biomechanical and Postural Parameters in the Students with Idiopathic Scoliosis .Biological Forum â€“ An International Journal 7(1): 1904-1909'),(4410,'117','Effect of fatigue on body joints kinematic in 3 point jump shot among basketball player young boys','Vahideh Safaie Nezhad, Alireza Rahimi and Amir Sarshin','307 RAHIMI ALIREZA.pdf','',1,'The aim of this study was Effect of fatigue on body joints kinematic in 3 point jump shot among basketball player young boys. First, selected10 basketball player young boy from karaj city club with 19Â±2, 16 years old, 73, 9Â±14, 54 weight and 185Â±6, 78 height. All of them were player in area 1, 2 and 3 that they have a good technique and high performance in jump shot and were right handed. They do 15 jump shot at rest (pre- test) and then subjects participates in fatigue protocol and for second time did the 15 3 points jump shot(post- test)for pre and post- test kinematic parameters of joints angle by photography were analyzed in two extroverted and introverted phase. Statistical analyze of data via correlation t test (?= 0/05) showed fatigue can due to increase in minimum flexion of knee in both of extroverted and introverted phase. Also in introverted phase range of motion were reduced but there is no kinematic parameters changes in hip, trunk and shoulder. The results indicate mi','fatigue, joints kinematic, jump shot','The aim of this study was Effect of fatigue on body joints kinematic in 3 point jump shot among basketball player young boys. First, selected10 basketball player young boy from karaj city club with 19Â±2, 16 years old, 73, 9Â±14, 54 weight and 185Â±6, 78 height. All of them were player in area 1, 2 and 3 that they have a good technique and high performance in jump shot and were right handed. They do 15 jump shot at rest (pre- test) and then subjects participates in fatigue protocol and for second time did the 15 3 points jump shot(post- test)for pre and post- test kinematic parameters of joints angle by photography were analyzed in two extroverted and introverted phase. Statistical analyze of data via correlation t test (?= 0/05) showed fatigue can due to increase in minimum flexion of knee in both of extroverted and introverted phase. Also in introverted phase range of motion were reduced but there is no kinematic parameters changes in hip, trunk and shoulder. The results indicate mi','The main objective of each basketball player during a game is to score points. In an attempt to do so, an athlete might perform a jump shot, set shot, layup or a free throw. As the discipline has evolved and more athletic players have practiced this sport discipline, defense has become increasingly efficient. As a result, the two legged jump shot has become more frequent, amounting to over 70% of all the shots during a game, which necessitates a greater performance level for athletes executing the jump shot to increase the height at which the ball is released (i.e., the release point). This movement must be automated so that, regardless of the external factors, the player achieves maximum repeatability. The factors that affect the height at which a shot is performed include the shooter body height, jump height and arrangement of body parts. Since first used in the 1940\'s, the jump shot has become the most potent and utilized means of scoring in the game of basketball. In today\'s game, ','Vahideh Safaie Nezhad, Alireza Rahimi and Amir Sarshin (2015). Effect of fatigue on body joints kinematic in 3 point jump shot among basketball player young boys .Biological Forum â€“ An International Journal 7(1):910-1914.'),(4411,'117','The effect of 8-Week Aerobic Exercise upon Self-concept on 16 -17 years old Nonathletic Students','Kabir Eyidozehi, Mohammad Akram Hoodiani Fanooj and Azizollah Mokhtari','308 MEHDI KOHANDEL.pdf','',1,'This study intends to evaluate whether an 8-week aerobic exercise impacts upon self-concept of nonathletic students aged 16-17 years old. This semi-experimental research includes pretest, posttest, treatment group, and control group. The population consisted of 16-17years old nonathletic students in high schools of Tehran\'s fifth district, of which we selected 40 participants randomly. These participants did not perform regular physical exercise inside and outside of their schools, had general health, and did not suffer from any disease. Their parents expressed their satisfaction with their children\'s participation in this study. The data were extracted from physical self-description questionnaire (Marsh, 1994). This questionnaire contained 70 items for 11 components including health, harmony, physical exercise, body fat, sports competence, whole body, face, power, flexibility, strength, and self-esteem. Its calculated reliability, according to a preliminary study and results of test-r','Aerobic exercise, self-concept, students. ','This study intends to evaluate whether an 8-week aerobic exercise impacts upon self-concept of nonathletic students aged 16-17 years old. This semi-experimental research includes pretest, posttest, treatment group, and control group. The population consisted of 16-17years old nonathletic students in high schools of Tehran\'s fifth district, of which we selected 40 participants randomly. These participants did not perform regular physical exercise inside and outside of their schools, had general health, and did not suffer from any disease. Their parents expressed their satisfaction with their children\'s participation in this study. The data were extracted from physical self-description questionnaire (Marsh, 1994). This questionnaire contained 70 items for 11 components including health, harmony, physical exercise, body fat, sports competence, whole body, face, power, flexibility, strength, and self-esteem. Its calculated reliability, according to a preliminary study and results of test-r','Self-concept is a dynamic system which is interrelated with values, talents, and capabilities of individuals. This parameter is a determinant of life stages. Self-concept is an individual\'s general evaluation of self. This evaluation is a mental analysis of his/her own traits and characteristics. A positive self-concept suggests that individuals consider themselves as persons with strength and weakness and therefore boosts their self-confidence in social relations. A negative self-concept, conversely, is an indication of failure, incompetence, and incapability (Bong et al., 2003). Physical exercise improves feelings in most humans and brings comfort for them. One of most crucial mental aspects which are affected by physical exercise is self-concept. Self-concept forms core of physiological function evaluation and includes self-acceptance, safety, comfort, and impression of self (Dodd et al., 2003). Experienced teachers have discovered a highly significant relationship between a studen','Kabir Eyidozehi, Mohammad Akram Hoodiani Fanooj and Azizollah Mokhtari (2015). The effect of 8-Week Aerobic Exercise upon Self-concept on 16 -17 years old Nonathletic Students. Biological Forum â€“ An International Journal 7(1): 1915-1918.'),(4412,'117','Is Physical Activity and Sport play an important role in leisure time among Disabled University Students Male?','Kasbparast Jr. Mehdi, Mahvash Noorbakhsh, Abbas Khodayari and Ali Zareie','309 KASBPARAST JR. MEHDI.pdf','',1,'This study is conducted with the aim of investigating the leisure time among disabled students that they study at University. The method of this study was that the questionnaire was distributed among students with disabilities and analyzed the obtained data. It is a descriptive study using data obtained from the results of the following answers to the questions in the questionnaire; to evaluate the status of the disabled people is a nationwide Leisure Islamic Azad University. The results showed that the leisure time situation among disabled students is not good. Also showed that, disabled students have considerable leisure time, but sport a special place among the group does not fill the leisure time. Most of the leisure time among most of disabled students is between 14 to 16 hours a week approximately. They interested to some sport activity that the, soccer is the most popular sport among disabled students. Also there are number of problems about leisure time for them the main proble','Physical Activity, Disabled, leisure time','This study is conducted with the aim of investigating the leisure time among disabled students that they study at University. The method of this study was that the questionnaire was distributed among students with disabilities and analyzed the obtained data. It is a descriptive study using data obtained from the results of the following answers to the questions in the questionnaire; to evaluate the status of the disabled people is a nationwide Leisure Islamic Azad University. The results showed that the leisure time situation among disabled students is not good. Also showed that, disabled students have considerable leisure time, but sport a special place among the group does not fill the leisure time. Most of the leisure time among most of disabled students is between 14 to 16 hours a week approximately. They interested to some sport activity that the, soccer is the most popular sport among disabled students. Also there are number of problems about leisure time for them the main proble','Disability is the consequence of an impairment that may be physical, cognitive, mental, sensory, emotional, developmental, or some combination of these. A disability may be present from birth, or occur during a person\'s lifetime. Disability affects hundreds of millions of people all over the world. According to the World Health Organization (WHO), around 10% of the total world\'s population, roughly 650 million people, live with a disability. Most of these people do not have access to health, rehabilitation, social support, income programs, education, leisure, and employment, among others. some possible causes of physical disability in children are juvenile idiopathic arthritis, spina bifida and neuromuscular diseases. All of these diagnoses have in common that they cause functional limitations in daily life. Because of these functional limitations the course of development of children with a physical disability is different from that of their typically developing peers. Children with ','Kasbparast Jr. Mehdi, Mahvash Noorbakhsh, Abbas Khodayari and Ali Zareie (2015). Is Physical Activity and Sport play an important role in leisure time among Disabled University Students Male.Biological Forum â€“ An International Journal 7(1): 1919-1923.'),(4413,'117','The Effect of Yoga practice on Muscle Fitness and Body Composition in Middle age Women with Overweight','Helena Khosravi, Yaser Kazemzadeh and Saeid Sedaghati','310 YASER KAZEMZADEH.pdf','',1,'Type 2 diabetic besides hyperglycemia and deranged lipid profile is an impaired insulin secretion, peripheral insulin resistance and obesity which has become a major health concern worldwide. Yoga is a physical and mental discipline that originated in Indian culture over 2,000 years ago. The aim of the present study was to determine the impact of general program of yoga on the muscle fitness, body composition and metabolic risk factors in middle age women with overweight. Thirty middle age women with overweight were randomly assigned to the yoga intervention group or the control group. Muscle endurance and flexibility, fat percentage, body mass index (BMI), blood glucose and lipids levels were obtained, before and after 8 weeks of yoga practice. Data analyzed with independent t test by SPSS 19. Data indicates that significant increased in muscle endurance (p = 0.012) and flexibility (p = 0.049) occurred in yoga group but not in control group. Significantly decrease in BMI and body fat ','Yoga, Muscle Fitness, Body Composition, overweight','Type 2 diabetic besides hyperglycemia and deranged lipid profile is an impaired insulin secretion, peripheral insulin resistance and obesity which has become a major health concern worldwide. Yoga is a physical and mental discipline that originated in Indian culture over 2,000 years ago. The aim of the present study was to determine the impact of general program of yoga on the muscle fitness, body composition and metabolic risk factors in middle age women with overweight. Thirty middle age women with overweight were randomly assigned to the yoga intervention group or the control group. Muscle endurance and flexibility, fat percentage, body mass index (BMI), blood glucose and lipids levels were obtained, before and after 8 weeks of yoga practice. Data analyzed with independent t test by SPSS 19. Data indicates that significant increased in muscle endurance (p = 0.012) and flexibility (p = 0.049) occurred in yoga group but not in control group. Significantly decrease in BMI and body fat ','Yoga is a physical and mental discipline that originated in Indian culture over 2,000 years ago. From 1997, the number of yoga practitioners significantly increased in the world. In addition, adults participating in a yoga intervention found that yoga was easily learned and performed. Once learned, yoga can be practiced at any time on an individual basis, thus reducing common barriers to physical activity such as time conflicts and poor weather. The physical practice of postures (Asanas) was originally intended to prepare the body for meditation. Asana is only one of the eight \"limbs\" of yoga, the majority of which are more concerned with mental and spiritual well-being than physical activity. Asanas are the most common form of yoga practiced andtheir focuses on a combination of physical fitness factors and the mind-body-breath coordination (Morone and Greco 2007, Barnes et al., 2007, Khalsa, 2004, Kaitlyn and Roland 2011, Smith et al., 2007). Asana yoga uses various postures to devel','Helena Khosravi, Yaser Kazemzadeh and Saeid Sedaghati (2015). The Effect of Yoga practice on Muscle Fitness and Body Composition in Middle age Women with Overweight .Biological Forum â€“ An International Journal 7(1): 1924-1928.'),(4414,'117','Serum Testosterone/cortisol ratio in response to an Eccentric resistance exercise in non-trained boy students','Kamari Farideh, Eizadi Mojtaba and Behbudi Laleh','311 EIZADI MOJTABA.pdf','',1,'A growing body of literature suggests that intense eccentric exercise for first session can be associated with catabolic property in inactive individuals. Based on these data, in present study, we aimed to assess acute response of testosterone and cortisol as anabolic and katabolic hormones as well as ratio between them to an intense eccentric resistance test included a 20 minutes up and down the bench 60 cm with a weight equivalent to 13 percent of his weight in non-trained boy students. For this purpose, twenty-four non-trained boy students age-matched (18-24 years) were participated in this study. Blood samples were collected before and immediately after above mentioned exercise test for measure serum testosterone and cortisol and ratio between them. Pre- and post exercise serum of biochemical markers were compared between conditions using a paired-samples t-test. The results were considered statistically significant for p<0.05. Compared to pre-test, serum testosterone and cortisol ','Anabolical property, Testosterone/cortisol ratio, Eccentric resistance exercise','A growing body of literature suggests that intense eccentric exercise for first session can be associated with catabolic property in inactive individuals. Based on these data, in present study, we aimed to assess acute response of testosterone and cortisol as anabolic and katabolic hormones as well as ratio between them to an intense eccentric resistance test included a 20 minutes up and down the bench 60 cm with a weight equivalent to 13 percent of his weight in non-trained boy students. For this purpose, twenty-four non-trained boy students age-matched (18-24 years) were participated in this study. Blood samples were collected before and immediately after above mentioned exercise test for measure serum testosterone and cortisol and ratio between them. Pre- and post exercise serum of biochemical markers were compared between conditions using a paired-samples t-test. The results were considered statistically significant for p<0.05. Compared to pre-test, serum testosterone and cortisol ','Muscular power and volume increase is definitely among the main objectives of strength exercises. But, if anabolic processes do not overcome the catabolic ones, not only will not these contractions bring about muscle volume, protein synthesis, and obtaining power, but also reduce muscular volume and power by decomposing and breaking down muscular proteins. Hence, determining anabolic to catabolic ratio is one of the measurement indices of the optimum effects of the strength exercises. On the other hand, anabolic and catabolic processes strongly depend on hormonal changes and profile. This is because hormonal alternations - depending on the type of activity, diet, and the individual characteristics of an athlete are amongst the key components affecting protein synthesis or decomposition. If exercise protocol or exercise test results in a negative balance between anabolic and catabolic components, it will absolutely depend on the type of diet or the amount of protein (Phillips, 2004).\r\nI','Kamari Farideh, Eizadi Mojtaba and Behbudi Laleh (2015). Serum Testosterone/cortisol ratio in response to an Eccentric resistance exercise in non-trained boy students .Biological Forum â€“ An International Journal 7(1): 1929-1931 .'),(4415,'117','A Review on Treatment Technologies for Heavy Metal Removal from Waste Water','Pratima Kapur','312 PRATIMA KAPUR.pdf','',1,'Environmentalists are primarily concerned with the presence of heavy metals due to their high toxicity and impact on human health and environment. The interest in the development of cost-effective methods for the removal and recovery of heavy metals from contaminated waters has greatly increased because of the ecological awareness of the role of heavy metals in the environment. There are various treatment technologies employed for efficient removal of toxic heavy metals from industrial waste waters. The conventional treatment technologies include chemical precipitation, ion-exchange, membrane processes, electrochemical treatment, coagulation, adsorption, etc. Adsorption has been found to be superior compared to the other techniques for water re-use in terms of initial cost, ease of operation, sensitivity to toxic pollutants, flexibility and simplicity of design. Adsorption also does not result in the formation of harmful substances.','Heavy metals, chemical precipitation, ion-exchange, membrane processes, electrochemical treatment, coagulation, adsorption','Out of various processes studied and seen through the work done by different researchers it can be well inferred that the techniques involving chemicals are not in favor of environmental conditions and moreover adds upto the cost involved like coagulating and flocculating agents, surfactants and frothers. Using membrane is a cost ineffective issue and separation through electro-coagulation is a mere wastage of electricity. In addition to these drawbacks such processes produces large volume of sludge creating another problem of waste disposal. So the best way to find out the solution for the waste water treatment is by using a suitable low cost adsorbent and even if it is applied without any chemical modifications. The only problem which arises is of regeneration, which can be achieved by flushing it with acetic acid, HCl, H2SO4, and HNO3.','Heavy metalâ€ is a general collective term, it mainly includes the transition metals, some metalloids, lanthanides, and actinides having atomic density greater than 4000 kg m-3, or 5 times more than water and they are natural components of the earthâ€™s crust. Heavy metals occur naturally in the ecosystem with large variations in concentration. Although some of them are essential micro nutrients for living beings that is required in small quantities but a higher dose may lead to severe poisoning (Lenntech, 2004). \r\nMetals such as lead, cadmium, copper, arsenic, nickel, chromium, zinc and mercury have been recognized as hazardous heavy metals. These are non-biodegradable and gets accumulated in living tissues, causing various diseases and disorders (Ahmaruzzaman, 2011) and can cause life-threatening illness including irreversible damage to vital body system (Malik, 2004). From the eco-toxicological point of view, the most dangerous metals are mercury, lead, cadmium and chromium (Ahluw','Pratima Kapur (2015). A Review on Treatment Technologies for Heavy Metal Removal from Waste Water .Biological Forum â€“ An International Journal 7(1): 1932-1942.'),(4416,'117','Host infestation Potentiality of N. thymus to Control the Uzifly of muga silkworm, Antheraea assamensis (Helfer) â€“ A Bio-control Tool for Controlling Uzifly','B. Choudhury, Rajesh Kumar, Preetirekha Chutia and Girin Rajkhowa','1 DR RAJESH KUMAR.pdf','',1,'Muga silkworm, Antheraea assamensis (Heilfer), which produces the golden yellow silk is reared outdoor on two primary food plants; som (Persaea bomycina King) and soalu (Litsaea monopetela). It completes six crop/annum with two commercial crops viz., Spring (May-June) and Autumn (October-November) and each commercial crop is preceded by pre-seed crops and seed crops. Owing to its inherent outdoor mode of rearing and multivoltinism, the silkworm is exposed to a complex of pest and predators and diseases during rearing period, especially in pre seed and seed crops. It is observed that during winter seed crops viz., Aghenua (November-January) and Chotua (February-March), uzifly (Exorista philippinensis and Blepheripa zebina).','Seed, crops, muga silkworm, hyperparasitoids, pests, predators','Muga silkworm, Antheraea assamensis (Heilfer), which produces the golden yellow silk is reared outdoor on two primary food plants; som (Persaea bomycina King) and soalu (Litsaea monopetela). It completes six crop/annum with two commercial crops viz., Spring (May-June) and Autumn (October-November) and each commercial crop is preceded by pre-seed crops and seed crops. Owing to its inherent outdoor mode of rearing and multivoltinism, the silkworm is exposed to a complex of pest and predators and diseases during rearing period, especially in pre seed and seed crops. It is observed that during winter seed crops viz., Aghenua (November-January) and Chotua (February-March), uzifly (Exorista philippinensis and Blepheripa zebina). ','The pest status of muga silkworm, Antheraea assamensis is complex and it plays a major role in limiting the production of silk. Like diseases the muga silkworms are also exposed to several pests and predators in different seasons and the intensity of crop loss are also varied from season to season. Depending on intensity of pest & predators they are classified as major and minor. Among different pests (predators & parasites) reported on muga silkworm, two species of uzifly, Blephripa zabina Walker is the major Tachniid parasitoids attacking muga silkworm particularly during December-April causing 48.7 to 80 % loss in seed growing areas of Assam. In India, information on management of uzifly on muga silkworm is scanty. Pest management keys play a major role in increasing the production and productivity of muga silk. As muga silkworm is reared outside on the primary host plant, Persea bombycina (Family Lauraceae) and attacked by uzifly. Mass multiplication of Exoristobia philippiensis / ','B. Choudhury, Rajesh Kumar, Preetirekha Chutia and Girin Rajkhowa (2015).\r\nHost infestation Potentiality of N. thymus to Control the Uzifly of muga silkworm, Antheraea assamensis (Helfer) â€“ A Bio-control Tool for Controlling Uzifly .Biological Forum â€“'),(4418,'117','Host infestation Potentiality of N. thymus to Control the Uzifly of muga silkworm, Antheraea assamensis (Helfer) â€“ A Bio-control Tool for Controlling Uzifly','B. Choudhury, Rajesh Kumar, Preetirekha Chutia and Girin Rajkhowa','1 DR RAJESH KUMAR.pdf','',1,'Muga silkworm, Antheraea assamensis (Heilfer), which produces the golden yellow silk is reared outdoor on two primary food plants; som (Persaea bomycina King) and soalu (Litsaea monopetela). It completes six crop/annum with two commercial crops viz., Spring (May-June) and Autumn (October-November) and each commercial crop is preceded by pre-seed crops and seed crops. Owing to its inherent outdoor mode of rearing and multivoltinism, the silkworm is exposed to a complex of pest and predators and diseases during rearing period, especially in pre seed and seed crops. It is observed that during winter seed crops viz., Aghenua (November-January) and Chotua (February-March), uzifly (Exorista philippinensis and Blepheripa zebina).','Seed, crops, muga silkworm, hyperparasitoids, pests, predators','Muga silkworm, Antheraea assamensis (Heilfer), which produces the golden yellow silk is reared outdoor on two primary food plants; som (Persaea bomycina King) and soalu (Litsaea monopetela). It completes six crop/annum with two commercial crops viz., Spring (May-June) and Autumn (October-November) and each commercial crop is preceded by pre-seed crops and seed crops. Owing to its inherent outdoor mode of rearing and multivoltinism, the silkworm is exposed to a complex of pest and predators and diseases during rearing period, especially in pre seed and seed crops. It is observed that during winter seed crops viz., Aghenua (November-January) and Chotua (February-March), uzifly (Exorista philippinensis and Blepheripa zebina). ','The pest status of muga silkworm, Antheraea assamensis is complex and it plays a major role in limiting the production of silk. Like diseases the muga silkworms are also exposed to several pests and predators in different seasons and the intensity of crop loss are also varied from season to season. Depending on intensity of pest & predators they are classified as major and minor. Among different pests (predators & parasites) reported on muga silkworm, two species of uzifly, Blephripa zabina Walker is the major Tachniid parasitoids attacking muga silkworm particularly during December-April causing 48.7 to 80 % loss in seed growing areas of Assam. In India, information on management of uzifly on muga silkworm is scanty. Pest management keys play a major role in increasing the production and productivity of muga silk. As muga silkworm is reared outside on the primary host plant, Persea bombycina (Family Lauraceae) and attacked by uzifly. Mass multiplication of Exoristobia philippiensis / ','B. Choudhury, Rajesh Kumar, Preetirekha Chutia and Girin Rajkhowa (2015).\r\nHost infestation Potentiality of N. thymus to Control the Uzifly of muga silkworm, Antheraea assamensis (Helfer) â€“ A Bio-control Tool for Controlling Uzifly .Biological Forum â€“'),(4419,'119','Fish Diversity and Physico-chemical Characteristics of Rivers of Ganjam district, Odisha','B.K. Baliarsingh, Laishram Kosygin and S.D. Rout','3 BK BALIARSINGH.pdf','',1,'A systematic checklist of fishes of Ganjam district of Odisha, India was provided. A total of 97 species of fishes under 58 genera, 31 families and 9 orders has been recorded. Highest species diversity was observed in the Cyprinidae (36%) followed by Bagridae (9.2%). The fish fauna includes 2 Endangered (EN), 1 vulnerable (VU), 7 near threatened (NT), 60 least concern (LC), 2 data deficient (DD) and 25 not assessed as per IUCN. The fish fauna is a composite of primary freshwater fishes, estuarine fishes and widely distributed forms. The present finding indicates that Ganjam district is blessed with diverse fish fauna including numerous economically important food fishes and ornamental fishes. The water quality of the rivers and streams of the district are not contaminated as the value of pH and DO are within the tolerance limit of class â€˜Dâ€™. The water quality of the river is considered suitable for fish culture and wildlife propagation.','Fish diversity, Physico-chemical characteristics, Ganjam, Odisha. ','A systematic checklist of fishes of Ganjam district of Odisha, India was provided. A total of 97 species of fishes under 58 genera, 31 families and 9 orders has been recorded. Highest species diversity was observed in the Cyprinidae (36%) followed by Bagridae (9.2%). The fish fauna includes 2 Endangered (EN), 1 vulnerable (VU), 7 near threatened (NT), 60 least concern (LC), 2 data deficient (DD) and 25 not assessed as per IUCN. The fish fauna is a composite of primary freshwater fishes, estuarine fishes and widely distributed forms. The present finding indicates that Ganjam district is blessed with diverse fish fauna including numerous economically important food fishes and ornamental fishes. The water quality of the rivers and streams of the district are not contaminated as the value of pH and DO are within the tolerance limit of class â€˜Dâ€™. The water quality of the river is considered suitable for fish culture and wildlife propagation.','The Ganjam, one of the coastal district of Odisha. It is situated within the latitude 19Â° 0â€™ to 20Â° 17â€™ N and longitude 84Â° 9â€ to 85Â° 11â€ E. Area of Ganjam district is longitude 8,706 (km)2. (Map-1). Total rain fall is 1542.6mm (avg) and elevation from the sea levels is 5 to 159m. The Rushikulya is the major River passes through the district. A number of deltaic rivers viz. Nagabali, Indrabati, Saberi, Mahendratanaya, Bahuda, Hati, Tel nadi, pass through and around the District. Some of the dams like Harabhangi, Baghalati, Bhalughai, Maharani sagar, Soroda, Dhanei, Gania nala and Jharanei dam are present in this district.\r\nThe first ever study on fishes of Odisha was put forth by Day (1869) which included both marine and fresh water fishes. Later, the rich and varied fish fauna of Chilika lake comprising fresh, brackish and marine element has been studied mainly by Chaudury (1916a,1916b,1917,1923), Hora (1923), Menon (1961), Rao (1995). Venkateswarlu et al. (1998) studied ','B.K. Baliarsingh, Laishram Kosygin and S.D. Rout (2015). Fish Diversity and Physico-chemical Characteristics of Rivers of Ganjam district, Odisha .Biological Forum â€“ An International Journal 6(1): 13-18.'),(4420,'119','Fish Marketing System in Bhopal (M.P.)','Pratibha Chourey, Durga Meena, Dr. Alok Varma and Dr. Geeta Saxena','4 PRATIBHA CHOUREY.pdf','',1,'The present study is based on a survey of Bhopal fish market with help of direct observations, interview technique and a standard format of questionnaire which are filling up by fish seller. The study revealed the problem of fish seller during marketing times, which are briefly discussed in the paper.','Fish market structure, Fish seller problem, fish marketing','The present study is based on a survey of Bhopal fish market with help of direct observations, interview technique and a standard format of questionnaire which are filling up by fish seller. The study revealed the problem of fish seller during marketing times, which are briefly discussed in the paper.','INTRODUCTION \r\nThe fisheries sector has been recognized as a powerful income generator as it stimulates growth of a number of subsidiary industries and is a source of cheap and nutritious food. Fish production plays an important role in the socio-economic life of India. It is an important source of income and employment to millions of rural farmers particularly women. The growth of fish production and development of fishery sector is highly dependent on an efficient fish marketing system. The main source of fishes in Bhopal fish market is Upper Lake, Lower Lake, Kaliasote reservoir, Shahpura lake and Hathaikheda pond, which supplies various varieties of fishes. \r\nThe supply of fish to the consumers are in the form of fresh, dried and pieces of fishes in the local hat and Itwara & Budhwara fish market. According to the existing policy of M.P. Govt. only the registered co-operative society are empowered for fish catching and marketing of fish from these water bodies. Fishing is done by','Pratibha Chourey, Durga Meena, Dr. Alok Varma and Dr. Geeta Saxena (2015). Fish Marketing System in Bhopal (M.P.) .Biological Forum â€“ An International Journal 6(1): 19-21.'),(4421,'119','Assess the Success of Afforestation of the North Forests Preservation Program (Case study: Siahkal County)','Farahmand Farzalizadeh, Vahid Hemmati Khoshkdashty and Seyed Armin Hashemi','5 FARAHMANDFARZALIZADEH.pdf','',1,'Comprehensive plan for the preservation of forests, including forests of Gilan, which are widely used for several years in the areas of natural resources as a key strategy for the preservation, restoration and development of the forest has been raised. Although a positive impact on the management and sustainability of the project stands up in the province, but for various reasons including lack of basic studies, lack of funds and implementation stage and in Conservation and organization studies have shortcomings and defects also. This paper evaluates a comprehensive plan to protect forests in forestry plan Shenrood Siahkal deals for analysis on topographical maps, three plantation area in dominant Maintenance Plan (Khoshkeab Rahdarkhanh, Fountain Head and Spill Series 7 Shenrood determined and in each of areas type and abundance of species, area of plantation areas, the topography, the fencing, surveillance operations, economic conditions - social situation, soil management, livestock ','Assessing reforestation, preservation of forests, Shenrood Siahkal','Comprehensive plan for the preservation of forests, including forests of Gilan, which are widely used for several years in the areas of natural resources as a key strategy for the preservation, restoration and development of the forest has been raised. Although a positive impact on the management and sustainability of the project stands up in the province, but for various reasons including lack of basic studies, lack of funds and implementation stage and in Conservation and organization studies have shortcomings and defects also. This paper evaluates a comprehensive plan to protect forests in forestry plan Shenrood Siahkal deals for analysis on topographical maps, three plantation area in dominant Maintenance Plan (Khoshkeab Rahdarkhanh, Fountain Head and Spill Series 7 Shenrood determined and in each of areas type and abundance of species, area of plantation areas, the topography, the fencing, surveillance operations, economic conditions - social situation, soil management, livestock ','During the past few decades that passes from the nationalization debate of forests and rangelands, different types and forms of objectives and policies, by selecting strategies and adopting strategies in terms of spatial and temporal location, are proposed in order to conservation and sustainable development of forest resources, and over time they have made changes. Preservation of the forests and grasslands, on the one hand represent the policies and strategies that at least at one period of time, reflect the management views on this resources and on the other hand represents the belief that preservation of natural resources as a national wealth is inevitable which its realization requires collective efforts and national determination (Razzaghi, 1382).\r\nComprehensive plan for preservation of the north forests including Gilan forests, have been proposed widely several years ago in the natural resources lands as a basic strategy in order to preservation, revival and development of the f','Farahmand Farzalizadeh, Vahid Hemmati Khoshkdashty and Seyed Armin Hashemi (2015). Assess the Success of Afforestation of the North Forests Preservation Program (Case study: Siahkal County) .Biological Forum â€“ An International Journal 6(1): 22-26.'),(4422,'119','Anemia: A Common Health Problem, Consequence and Diet Management among Young Children and Pregnant Women','Dr. Rakesh Kumar','6 RAKESH KUMAR.pdf','',1,'India is among the countries with highest prevalence of anaemia in the world and accounts for the largest number of anaemic persons in the world. It is estimated that about 20%-40% of maternal deaths in India are due to anaemia; India contributes to about 50% of global maternal deaths due to anaemia. This review aimed to see prevalence of anemia, mainly iron deficiency anemia (IDA), diet management mainly for young children and pregnant women. One in four people is affected by anaemia, and pregnant women and pre school-age children are at the greatest risk.\r\nAdverse effects of anemia are seen in pregnant women and their offsprings mostly in developing countries where anemia is more prevalent. Health education and preventive measure during pregnancy are crucial factors for both mother and their offspringâ€™s health because each pregnant woman is at risk during pregnancy. A clear strategy is needed to create awareness among the people who are at high risk.\r\n','Anemia, diet in anemia, folic acid, Vitamin B12 ','Despite the fact that anemia has been identified as global public health problem for several years, no rapid progresses has been observed and the prevalence of the disease still high globally. The WHO and the United Nations International Children Fund (UNICEF) have stated that there is an immediate need to reduce the prevalence of anemia, and the importance of identifying its numerous aetiology, in order to ascertain effective control and preventive programmes (WHO, 2004).\r\nThe interstate differences observed may guide the health planner to alter the strategies for control of anemia in poor performing States (Agarwal et al., 2006). An effective strategy is needed to make the health education sessions for pregnant women and young children. It is important to raise the level of awareness by all possible ways with the help of Media, TV, and health campaigns by Government as well as Non Government Organization at community basis, so it can reach to door step of each family specially wome','Anemia, a major public health problem and one of the most common nutritional disorders worldwide has major consequences for human health, economic and social development (Dorothy et al., 2007; WHO, 2002). According to World Health Organization (WHO), anemia, has been defined by the as â€œa condition in which the number of red blood cells (RBCs) or their oxygen-carrying capacity is inadequate to meet physiologic demands of the body, which vary by sex, age, altitude, smoking, and pregnancy statusâ€ (WHO, 2010).\r\nA number of studies conducted in India of micronutrient deficiency confirm high prevalence of anemia; (Sharma et al., 1996; Kanani and Poojara, 2000; Chakma et al., 2000; Rajaratnam et al., 2000; Kapil et al., 1999). It may happen at any stage of life; but young children and women in the reproductive age group are the most prone to anemia due to iron, folic acid and vitamin B12 deficiency (Dorothy et al., 2007). In many developing countries, anaemia during pregnancy is a major c','Dr. Rakesh Kumar (2014)Anemia: A Common Health Problem, Consequence and Diet Management among Young Children and Pregnant Women . Biological Forum â€“ An International Journal 6(1): 27-32.'),(4423,'119','Examining the Effect of Phosphate Manure and Mycorrhizal and their Interaction with Vermicompost on Performance and Functional Components of Groundnut','Seyed Mostafa Sadeghi, Hasan Guilanpour Rad and Seyed Armin Hashemi','7 SEYED MOSTAFA SADEGHI.pdf','',1,'This study was conducted to examine the effect of phosphate manure and mycorrhizal and their interaction with vermicompost on performance and components of the groundnut plant in a factorial experiment with three factors that included mycorrhizal fungus (inoculation and non-inoculation), phosphate manure (0, 30 and 60 Kg/ha), and vermicompost (0, 5 and 10 tons/ha) in random blocks schemes with 18 treatments and three iterations in crop year 1390 in Astaneashrafie, kourka region. The results of stepwise regression revealed that effective features on performance of groundnut included number of seed per square meter and weight of 100 seeds. Therefore, the above mentioned features were analyzed statistically with seed function. Phosphate manure gained the highest performance on all evaluated features, especially seed performance with 60 kg utilization per hectare, about 2775 kg. based on means comparison experiment with Danken method, utilization of vermicompost in the level of 10 ton','Groundnut, Mycorrhizal fungus, Vermicompost, Phosphate manure','According to the obtained results, using mycorrhizal fungus causes increase of functional components parameters especially effective feature on performance of seed, that finally , by increasing the growth of plant, it caused the increase of performance. Therefore its positive effect was evident in this research. Interaction of mycorrhiza and phosphate in 60kg level per hectare, caused increasing in most of the measurement parameters, especially parameters like number of seeds, and weight of seed 100 seeds, that they were finally important sources of performance. \r\nInteraction of vermicompost and phosphate in most of the features especially effective features, had positive effect, that its best level, was 60 kg of phosphate Ã— 10 tons per hectare of vermicmpost. Utilization of vermicompost and mycorrhizal in this research, did not indicate any positive effect, therefore using these two factors did not seem suitable in increasing performance and needs more examination. According to the r','Groundnut plant (Arachis hypogea L.) is a crop cultivated in tropical to semi-temperate regions for its and high protein, nutritional and oil purposes (Vinve Gamguri1982). Considering the fact that this plant is a especial of tropical regions, it can be grown in latitudes between 40 in north and 40 in south with the amount of 500ml rain in growth season and temperature between 24 to 33c (Gibonz, 1980). In recent years, misusage of chemicals in farm lands caused severe environmental problems including pollution of water sources, degradation in quality of agricultural crops and alleviation of soil fertility (Sharma, 2002). One of the foundations of sustainable agriculture is to use biologic manures in order to provide nutritional elements of the plant with the purpose of significant alleviating or eliminating chemicals .biological manures contain material retentive of the condensed population of one or several beneficial terricolous microorganism, that causes improvement of soil a','Seyed Mostafa Sadeghi, Hasan Guilanpour Rad and Seyed Armin Hashemi (2014). Examining the Effect of Phosphate Manure and Mycorrhizal and their Interaction with Vermicompost on Performance and Functional Components of Groundnut . Biological Forum â€“ An'),(4424,'119','The Influence of Heavy Metal Lead (Pb) on Seeds Generation, Seedling Growth of Cow-Pea (Vigna Sinensis)','Atul Thakkar','8 DR ATUL THAKKAR.pdf','',1,'Plant growth mainly depends on the biotic and biotic factors. Heavy metal concentrations are the important factors that influence the crop and plant growth worldwide. The paper present regarding the influence of Pb on the generation of seed in the cow pea (Vigna sinensis). We analyzed the percentage of germinated seeds in different condition using (Pb(NO3)2) 10, 100, 1000, 10000 ppm with control condition. Analysis shows, decreased seed germination at increased concentration of Pb. ','Cow pea, Heavy metal, Germination, Concentration','Plant growth mainly depends on the biotic and biotic factors. Heavy metal concentrations are the important factors that influence the crop and plant growth worldwide. The paper present regarding the influence of Pb on the generation of seed in the cow pea (Vigna sinensis). We analyzed the percentage of germinated seeds in different condition using (Pb(NO3)2) 10, 100, 1000, 10000 ppm with control condition. Analysis shows, decreased seed germination at increased concentration of Pb. ','Heavy metals as lead and zinc are naturally present in the environment their presence has gradually been increasing with the increase of industrialization and urbanization. Different levels of heavy metals contained in soil, water and air cause pollution after reaching certain concentrations metals are continuously released into the biosphere by naturally and by industrial, automobile activities etc.\r\nDegradation of environment adversely affects germination growth and biodiversity of plants metals are of special interest with respect to the toxicological importance to human health, plants and animals. Lead is one of the best known heavy trace elements with a long history of toxicity .its exposure is becoming a great concern because of its toxic nature wide spread occurrence and long life in biological system. Lead can be founding batteries, ceramics, chemicals and fertilizer. Lead is also used in a number of products including gasoline paints pesticides, glass etc. Lead inhibition to g','Atul Thakkar (2014).The Influence of Heavy Metal Lead (Pb) on Seeds Generation, Seedling Growth of Cow-Pea (Vigna Sinensis) Biological Forum â€“ An International Journal 6(1): 42-43.'),(4425,'119','Techno Economic Feasibility of Ericulture in the plain of North East India','R. Singh, P.K. Handique and P. Sonowal','9 R SINGH.pdf','',1,'Ericulture significantly contributes to the Indian Silk Production which is a traditional agro-based industry in the rural plain of North East India. Eri silk has its utility especially as winter cloth as it has good thermal properties and is cheaper than wool. Ericulture gives a wide and sustainable employment and addition income of a wider section of rural population in the North East India which engages near 1.3 lakh families in this region. To study techno economic feasibility of Ericulture in the plain of North East India, Khortigagai of Titabar Sub-Division in the Jorhat district of Assam was selected. The information on cost of inputs in food plant and silkworm rearing was recorded and the value of cocoon obtained were taken into consideration to ascertain the cost benefit ration which was recorded as 1:1.80, which revealed that Ericulture is a profitable venture for the poor and marginal farmers of North East India.','Economics, cost-benefit ratio, Ericulture','Although the study has revealed that Ericulture is a profitable venture for the farmers of that area. Considering the higher scope for own family employment opportunities and periodical return in Ericulture, this may be given higher priority for expansion of Ericulture in the study region. It can also be more profitable venture if entrepreneur goes for vast expansion and in large quantum area, then it will gain more profit. Again, there is a need a training need assessment for that study region for the better production. These measures would help to improve Ericulture development in the long run.','Ericulture significantly contributes to the Indian Commercial Silk Production which is mostly confined to the Brahmaputra Valley of Assam in the tribal inhabited districts. (Gogoi et al., 2011). Ericulture is a traditional agro-based industry in the rural area. The Eri Silk is rich among the rural people, which gives thermal property during the winter season. In terms of contribution to employment and income by all the four major Sericulture activities of Assam (Viz Eri, Muga, Mulberry and Tasar), Ericulture occupies the prime position among the poor rural masses (De and Das, 2009). The Eri Silk has its utility (especially as winter cloth) and comparatives lower price than the other silk varieties; it gained much popularity among the middle and lower middle income population across the state and other parts of India (Das, 2008). The Eri Silk has a scope for Sustainable employment and income of a wider section of rural population. Eri-Fabric is also called â€œPoor Manâ€™s Silkâ€ as it ','R. Singh, P.K. Handique and P. Sonowal (2014). Techno Economic Feasibility of Ericulture in the plain of North East India. Biological Forum â€“ An International Journal 6(1): 44-47.'),(4426,'119','Effect of Elevated Creatinine Level in Blood Serum of Chronic Renal Failure Patients','Punam Yadav, Dinkar Malik, Sandeep Kumar and Vijai Malik','10 DR PUNAM YADAV.pdf','',1,'Kidney is main seat of excretion. It has to handle all the excretory products of metabolic and toxins of the body. When kidney itself gets injured, due to various systemic and renal diseases, its excretory capacity is reduced by an amount proportional to the number of nephrons which have ceased to function. Chronic renal failure is characterized by a wide variety of biochemical disturbances. Creatinine is formed largely in the muscles by the irreversible and non enzymetic removal of water from creatine phosphate. Creatinine is a waste product and it is removed from the plasma by glomerular filteration and then excreted in the urine without being reabsorbed by the tubules. If plasma levels of creatinine increase above the normal concentration of creatinine in the blood, the kidney can also excrete creatinine through the tubules. In case of chronic renal failure the level of serum creatinine is largely increased. The present paper includes the study of serum creatinine levels of 200 pati','Chronic Renal Failure, GFR, Dialysis, Serum Creatinine','Kidney is main seat of excretion. It has to handle all the excretory products of metabolic and toxins of the body. When kidney itself gets injured, due to various systemic and renal diseases, its excretory capacity is reduced by an amount proportional to the number of nephrons which have ceased to function. Chronic renal failure is characterized by a wide variety of biochemical disturbances. Creatinine is formed largely in the muscles by the irreversible and non enzymetic removal of water from creatine phosphate. Creatinine is a waste product and it is removed from the plasma by glomerular filteration and then excreted in the urine without being reabsorbed by the tubules. If plasma levels of creatinine increase above the normal concentration of creatinine in the blood, the kidney can also excrete creatinine through the tubules. In case of chronic renal failure the level of serum creatinine is largely increased. The present paper includes the study of serum creatinine levels of 200 pati','Creatinine is a waste product derived from creatine. It is the internal hydride of creatine. Renal failure is associated with major systemic, biochemical, hematological dearrangement. Biochemically, serum creatinine is the most widely used screening test for the evaluation of kidney function. Studies differ regarding the status of serum creatinine in chronic renal failure. Oleson et. al., 1951 and Basette et. al., 1932 noticed that creatinine and minerals are removed from the plasma by glomerular filtration is excreted in the urine without being reabsorbed. If plasma levels of creatinine increase above the normal concentration of creatinine in blood, the kidneys can also excrete creatinine through the tubules. So serum creatinine levels in renal disease generally do not increase until renal function is substantially impaired. Decreased creatinine excretion is regularly observed in chronic renal failure even at serum creatinine concentration as low as 0.35- 0.50 Âµmol/L. (Goldman et. al','Punam Yadav, Dinkar Malik, Sandeep Kumar and Vijai Malik (2014). Effect of Elevated Creatinine Level in Blood Serum of Chronic Renal Failure Patients .Biological Forum â€“ An International Journal 6(1): 48-52.'),(4427,'119','Study of Airspora during Celebration of Rajyotsava, 2010','Priti Tiwari','11 PREETI TIWARI CHATTISHGARH.pdf','',1,'The microorganisms are ubiquitous in our environment; they influence the man in different ways. Microorganisms are sensitive indicators of environmental quality Thus diversity of microbial activities varies from causing diseases in human, other animals and plants. Microorganisms have special impact on the whole biosphere. The air is never completely free from the incidence of microbial propagules, which are collectively termed as Air spora. Air borne fungal spores play an important role in the etiology of respiratory allergic disorders. The present study has been undertaken to assess the account of airborne fungal spores in the play ground of Govt. N .P .G .College of Science Raipur (C.G.) during celebration of Rajyotsava, 2010.','Air-spores, Microorganisms, Rajyotsava','The microorganisms are ubiquitous in our environment; they influence the man in different ways. Microorganisms are sensitive indicators of environmental quality Thus diversity of microbial activities varies from causing diseases in human, other animals and plants. Microorganisms have special impact on the whole biosphere. The air is never completely free from the incidence of microbial propagules, which are collectively termed as Air spora. Air borne fungal spores play an important role in the etiology of respiratory allergic disorders. The present study has been undertaken to assess the account of airborne fungal spores in the play ground of Govt. N .P .G .College of Science Raipur (C.G.) during celebration of Rajyotsava, 2010.','INTRODUCTION\r\nFungal spores are part and parcel of air and their quality and quantity depends on geography, seasonal variation in local environment. Air is mainly the dispersal medium for microorganisms. Air contamination caused by fungi is considered because of their dangerous influence on human health. Microorganisms occur everywhere on the planet and more so in the tropics where humidity and temperature are better suited for them to grow and multiply. Cunningham (1873) published his comprehensive work in the form of a book named \'Microscopic Examination of Air\'. Perhaps this happened to be the first write up on Aerobiology in India. The subject Microbiology of atmosphere or Aerobiology was established as a special branch of study by Meier et al (1933) of United States and Stepanov (1935) of U.S.S.R. Systematic and intensive studies of Aerobiology in India can be said to have started with the work initiated by Prof. Sreeramulu at Visakhapatnam.\r\nMany workers have worked on Aerobiolo','Priti Tiwari (2014). Study of Airspora during Celebration of Rajyotsava, 2010 .Biological Forum â€“ An International Journal 6(1): 53-56.'),(4428,'119','Ecology and Conservation of Rare Hygroryza aristata (Retz.) Nees ex Wight & Arn.','Vijai Malik, Inam Mohammad and Pranita','12 VIJAY MALIK.pdf','',1,'Hygroryza aristata (Retz.) Nees ex Wight & Arn. is a rare aquatic grass of small fragmented population in Western Uttar Pradesh. The authors have observed and reported that anthropogenic pressures and habitat loss are the main causes of rarity of this species. ','Rare, Anthropogenic, Conservation, Western Uttar Pradesh.','Hygroryza aristata (Retz.) Nees ex Wight & Arn. is a rare aquatic grass of small fragmented population in Western Uttar Pradesh. The authors have observed and reported that anthropogenic pressures and habitat loss are the main causes of rarity of this species. ','A rare species is a group of organisms that are very uncommon or scarce and which may have fragmented habitat. This designation may be applied to either a plant or animal. The IUCN does not normally make designations for rare species. A rare species is those elements which occurs very infrequently or exists in small number less of than 20,000. Rare species has small stable population of very restricted or wider distribution. These species may not be under threat (Nayar and Sastry, 1987). Western part of Uttar Pradesh includes Saharanpur and Muzaffarnagar districts which come under Saharanpur Forest Division. It lies in the upper Indo-gangetic plain. The whole area is fertile and sugarcane, wheat and rice are the principal crops of this region. Saharanpur is located at 29Â°58\' N Latitude and 77Â°33\' E Longitude. Rainfall is the most important climatic factor which affects vegetation of this area. 80-90% rainfall occurs during monsoon season from mid June to mid September and temperature','Vijai Malik, Inam Mohammad and Pranita (2014). Ecology and Conservation of Rare Hygroryza aristata (Retz.) Nees ex Wight & Arn. Biological Forum â€“ An International Journal 6(1): 57-58.'),(4429,'119','Land Cover Management of Forest stands using the ETM+ ','Behrouz Kord and Seyed Armin Hashemi','13 BEHROUZ KORD.pdf','',1,'Optimum management of natural resources and forest parks requires in time, correct information. Drawing the map of land cover and more and more precise determination of this tool as a management parameter can assist the planners of various administrative sectors in management. Present study was performed to define the change in the land use level in the forest park and to define the factors influencing on these changes using remote sensing and GIS. Present study tries to define forest cover changes and to map the forest cover using remote sensing techniques and the image of ETM+ sensor in 1989.Vegetation as a dynamic phenomenon is always changing and transforming. Total accuracy of classification of the images related to 1989 is 0.7312 and kappa coefficient is 0.7247.','forest cover, Gisoom forest park, supervised classification, ETM+.','Optimum management of natural resources and forest parks requires in time, correct information. Drawing the map of land cover and more and more precise determination of this tool as a management parameter can assist the planners of various administrative sectors in management. Present study was performed to define the change in the land use level in the forest park and to define the factors influencing on these changes using remote sensing and GIS. Present study tries to define forest cover changes and to map the forest cover using remote sensing techniques and the image of ETM+ sensor in 1989.Vegetation as a dynamic phenomenon is always changing and transforming. Total accuracy of classification of the images related to 1989 is 0.7312 and kappa coefficient is 0.7247.','INTRODUCTION\r\nThe major method to analyze the information of an area is drawing the obtained information as a map is utilizing the satellite images, which have been provided for human since not so much years ago and nowadays by wonderful development of sciences it is utilized widely. In this regard, Aminy (2000) performed a case study in the \"Armard\" forest of baneh city with 19964h1 area to study the wide spread changes of forest and to map the forest level changes during 1960 to 2000. He has used the satellite images of EMT+ and IRSP6 sensors, and studied the relationship of 5 factors including slope, direction, altitude from sea level, distance from rural centers and rivers with wide spread changes of the forest. A result of this study indicates that in this case study, 4853h1 of forest level has decreased. Meanwhile, the relationship of physiographic and anthropological factors with these changes was studied using spearman correlation techniques and logistic regression model. Resul','Behrouz Kord and Seyed Armin Hashemi (2014).Land Cover Management of Forest stands using the ETM+ .Biological Forum â€“ An International Journal 6(1): 59-62.'),(4430,'119','Effects of Land Use Change on Acidity soil and Phosphorus and Calcium of Soil ','Vahid Hemmati, Seyed Amaneh Saadat and Seyed Armin Hashemi','14 VAHID.pdf','',1,'The land use change is one of the important interferences of human in natural ecosystems which affect the ecosystem processes and specially the soil. Soil samples were taken using random systematic method from depth of 0 to 30 centimeters. Totally 60 soil samples (20 samples for each region) were delivered to the soil lab. The data analysis was implemented using SPSS 18 Software and in order to study and compare the data average, the one way variance analysis test and Duncan\'s multivariate test were used. Amount of calcium and electrical conductivity in 3 usages had no significant differences. Amount of soil acidity in forest, garden and tea garden usage have no significant differences but they had a significant difference in 95 percent significance level with pasture usage. Therefore, it can be said that land use change can affect the soil characteristics and lead to soil destruction and decline in soil nutrients.','Land Use Change, Soil, Shenroud of Siahkal','The results of this research show a significant difference in amount of nitrogen, organic carbon, carbon to nitrogen ratio, acidity and phosphorus during the forest use change into pasture and garden. According to the results, forest use change caused reduction in percentage of organic carbon, nitrogen and phosphorus and incensement of acidity in forest and carbon to nitrogen ratio in garden. Therefore, considering the ecological importance of Iranian northern forests, results of this research require more attention to studying the modification and land use change in this area.','The land use change from forest to agricultural land specially in steep and erodible loess lands is one of the problems that by affecting directly on soil quality parameters, in addition to harming and reduction of soil potential talent , gives irreparable damages through increasing the soil erodibility (Marinari 2006, et al.) results of the use change effect on amount of soil organic materials and physical characteristics in 3 usages of forest, pasture and agricultural lands showed that the measured organic material percentage of soil in agricultural lands has decreased 44 and 48 percents in 0-10 centimeters layer and 48 and 50 percents in 0-20 centimeters soil layer compared to forest and pasture usage (Celik, 2005). Forest land soils have always been given attention due to having abundant organic materials and proper constructions but changes in their management and use and tillage practices usually have a major effect on amount of the organic material and other physical and chemica','Vahid Hemmati, Seyed Amaneh Saadat and Seyed Armin Hashemi (2014). Effects of Land Use Change on Acidity soil and Phosphorus and Calcium of Soil . Biological Forum â€“ An International Journal 6(1): 63-67.'),(4431,'119','Studies on Pollen Rain vis-a-vis Vegetation Relationship and Thecamoebian Diversity in Bari Tal area, Lucknow District, \r\nUttar Pradesh\r\n','Anjali Trivedi, M.S. Chauhan and Anjum Farooqui','15 DR ANJALI TRIVEDI.pdf','',1,'The paper embodies the modern pollen rain-vegetation relationship from sub-tropical belt, India. Palynological study was carried out on ten samples collected at sediment-water interface from lake-Bari Tal, Lucknow (UP). The quantitative and qualitative analysis of pollen and spores reveals the dominance of non-arboreals and relatively extremely low frequencies of arboreals (trees & shrubs). Among the tree taxa, Madhuca indica (av. 6.8%) and Acacia (av. 4.7%) are the major components and they are consistently represented with collectively av. 11.5% pollen, whereas rest of the trees viz., Holoptelea, Bauhinia, Terminalia, Shorea robusta, Syzygium, Emblica officinalis, members of Meliaceae, etc., are meagre although they are common in the region. The under-representation of all these taxa could be due to low pollen production and entomophilly. The partial preservation of their pollen in the sediments cannot be denied. In general, the trees taxa constitute av. 22.5% fraction of the total p','Pollen rain, Pollen analysis, Surface samples, Bari Tal, Lucknow District (U.P.)','The comparative assessment of AP and NAP ratio from Bari Tal reveals av. 22.5% arboreals (trees & shrubs) mainly comprised of dry-deciduous vegetation. The pollen assemblage is in equilibrium with the annual precipitation range (100-200cm). Highest pollen influx of Madhuca indica is av. 6.8% and Acacia av. 4.7% is recorded. The rest of the trees represent av. 11% pollen. Among the non-arboreals grasses (Poaceae) are recorded with av. 105% of pollen together with Cerealia av. 26.2% pollen and Xanthium av. 65%, which are non-pollen sum components are recovered in excessively high frequencies due to their local abundance in the wasteland adjoining to the lake. On the whole the terrestrial herbs constitute the largest fraction of pollen rain. The other heathland taxa with av. 75.3 % pollen, barring grasses, Cerealia and Xanthium, truly reflect their factual presence in the area. The marshy comprising sedges and others (non-pollen sum elements) are encountered with av. 53% pollen, depictin','Substantial data-grid has been generated on modern pollen rain-vegetation relationships for the tropical evergreen and deciduous forests in South India and Sri Lanka (Bonnefille et al., 1999; Anupama et al., 2000; Barboni and Bonnefille, 2001), tropical deciduous forests in the foothills of Himalaya (Sharma, 1985; Gupta and Yadav, 1992), northeast India (Basumatary and Bera, 2007), Madhya Pradesh (Chauhan, 1994, 2008) and tropical deciduous scrub vegetation in northwest desert (Singh et al., 1973). These studies have provided ample comparative data-base on the pollen rain vis-a-vis modern vegetation, which served as modern analogue for the factual appraisal of past pollen sequences from their respective regions in terms of vegetation dynamics and coeval climatic conditions during the Quaternary Period. However, the Ganga Plain with immense potential for the Quaternary palaeofloristic studies has not received much attention to understand the pollen deposition pattern of different plant ','Anjali Trivedi, M.S. Chauhan and Anjum Farooqui (2014).Studies on Pollen Rain vis-a-vis Vegetation Relationship and Thecamoebian Diversity in Bari Tal area, Lucknow District, Uttar Pradesh. Biological Forum â€“ An International Journal 6(1): 68-78.\r\n'),(4432,'119','Protein Conversion Efficiency (PCE) in Muscle of Freshwater Fish Labeo rohita fed on Formulated Feed','V.B. Nalawade, M.P. Bhilave and J.J. Kulkarni','16 DR BHILAVE.pdf','',1,'Aquaculture is one of the fastest growing food producing sectors in the world accounting for approximately 50% of fisheries products. The protein component in aquaculture diet is the single most expensive portion and important dietary nutrient. Generally, feed ingredients of animal origin having higher protein content than the plant protein source. Protein conversion efficiency expresses the growth pattern of fish. Therefore, in the present study, experiment was conducted to evaluate Protein Conversion efficiency (PCE) of freshwater fish Labeo rohita fed on 100%, 75%, 50%, 25% non conventional formulated feed i.e. blood of bovine animals obtained from slaughter house and 100% conventional feed i.e. Groundnut oil Cake. During experiment, the fishes were fed at the rate of 2% of the total body weight per day. After experiment, the fish shows maximum values of PCE in formulated feed as compared to conventional feed.','Labeo rohita, PCE, Formulated Feed, Groundnut oil Cake','Aquaculture is one of the fastest growing food producing sectors in the world accounting for approximately 50% of fisheries products. The protein component in aquaculture diet is the single most expensive portion and important dietary nutrient. Generally, feed ingredients of animal origin having higher protein content than the plant protein source. Protein conversion efficiency expresses the growth pattern of fish. Therefore, in the present study, experiment was conducted to evaluate Protein Conversion efficiency (PCE) of freshwater fish Labeo rohita fed on 100%, 75%, 50%, 25% non conventional formulated feed i.e. blood of bovine animals obtained from slaughter house and 100% conventional feed i.e. Groundnut oil Cake. During experiment, the fishes were fed at the rate of 2% of the total body weight per day. After experiment, the fish shows maximum values of PCE in formulated feed as compared to conventional feed.','Aquaculture is an intense expanding sector of agriculture and most rapidly growing markets for formulated feeds (Riaz 1997, Rosentrater 2009). Two major challenges for profitable fish feed production include feed formulation and processing (Kazamzadesh, 1989). Fish feed formulation plays a crucial role in production buyoncy, especially given the challenge manufacturing high quality protein, high lipid ratio with acceptable pellet durability and water stability (Rokey and Platner 2004).The largest cost component in aquaculture production is feed, which constitutes between 30 and 60 % of the total operational costs for an aquaculture farm. Protein is often the most expensive nutritional factor. Therefore, using low- price alternate sources of protein, which could provide better fish growth is beneficial for feed manufactures and aquaculture producers. (Davis and Stickney 1978; Lovell 1988, Keong, 2003, Rosentrater et al., 2009). However increase in cost and demand of feed protein from co','V.B. Nalawade, M.P. Bhilave and J.J. Kulkarni (2014). '),(4433,'119','Floristic Diversity with Special Reference to Rare and Threatened Plants of Jawahar Sagar Sanctuary Area near Kota Rajasthan','Sulekha Joshi and S.K. Shringi','17 DR SULEKHA.pdf','',1,'Jawahar Sagar Sanctuary is one of the richest floristic regions of Rajasthan. In floristic analysis of the study area 422 species of angiosperm plants were documented. In the present paper 37 plant species have been recorded as rare or endangered plants. All 37 plant species are enumerated with their botanical names, local names, red data categories and present status in the study area. Many of these plant species have immediate attention for their conservation. It is an alarming situation where endangered species requires more and more attentions. The present study also highlights that some rare or endangered plants abundantly found in Jawahar Sagar Sanctuary area. The sanctuary is observed as the best conservation model of the plant diversity and it harbors a large number of endangered and rare plants.','Diversity, Endangered, Extinct, Floristic, Rare, Sanctuary','Jawahar Sagar Sanctuary is one of the richest floristic regions of Rajasthan. In floristic analysis of the study area 422 species of angiosperm plants were documented. In the present paper 37 plant species have been recorded as rare or endangered plants. All 37 plant species are enumerated with their botanical names, local names, red data categories and present status in the study area. Many of these plant species have immediate attention for their conservation. It is an alarming situation where endangered species requires more and more attentions. The present study also highlights that some rare or endangered plants abundantly found in Jawahar Sagar Sanctuary area. The sanctuary is observed as the best conservation model of the plant diversity and it harbors a large number of endangered and rare plants.','The term biodiversity is an amalgam of two words biological and diversity. In general biodiversity is a complex and balanced network of different species, which are mutually in dependent on each other. Floral and faunal diversities are two facts components of biodiversities which covers the variety and variability of species. The Government of India has already mandate up with a Biodiversity Acts, 2002 and national Environment policy, 2005. To achieve the effective implementation of the above acts we must have a comprehensive update list of plants and animals of the region with particular interest to rare and threatened taxa. Thus, present attempt has been made for documentation of floral components and threatened or rare plants of Jawahar Sagar study area. These rare and threatened plants species has to be highlighted for their conservation.\r\nThe floristic diversity of Rajasthan has documented by Singh and Pandey (1998) in details. Comprehensive flora of Rajasthan in three volumes (Sh','Sulekha Joshi and S.K. Shringi (2014).Floristic Diversity with Special Reference to Rare and Threatened Plants of Jawahar Sagar Sanctuary Area near Kota Rajasthan . Biological Forum â€“ An International Journal 6(1): 84-91'),(4434,'119','Evaluation of Some Qualitative Characteristics of Wild Plum Genotypes in Northern Iran','Seyedeh Forough, Seyed Noori Amlashi, Vali Rabiei and Davood Bakhshi','18 SEYEDEH FOROUGH.pdf','',1,'Guilan forests are one of the natural habitats for the varieties of wild plum and tomato that will be consumed fresh and processed by the residents of the areas. In this study, the amount of total phenol, antioxidant capacity, total acid, the amount of total soluble solids and the ratio of total soluble solids to total acid for each genotype were analyzed under completely randomized plan with three replications. Results from this study indicate that the total soluble solids of fruits were different in the range between 03/0 and 93/15 Â° Brix. So that the genotype of â€œsour red plumâ€ had the highest and genotype of â€œsour Black plumâ€ had the lowest percentage of soluble solids. Genotype of â€œlarge sloeâ€ with an average of 13/6 and the genotype of â€œgolden plumâ€ with an average of 64/3% of malic acid had the highest and lowest rates of the total acid. The ratio of total soluble solids to total acid of fruits was different in the range between 008/0 to 815/3. The genotype of â','plum and tomato, antioxidant capacity, genotype, total phenol, total acid, soluble solids','Obtained results showed that there is a very wide diversity among studied genotypes and there are very valuable varieties in terms of nutritional quality both as fresh consumption and use in processing industries. Evaluation of antioxidant activity, total phenol and phenolic compounds including catechin and quercetin showed that the amount of these compounds vary among the different genotypes, therefore, genotype has an important role in the synthesis of phenolic compounds. Evaluate the correlation between total phenol amount and antioxidant activity of the peel and pulp mixture showed that there is a significant relationship between antioxidant activity and total phenol amount.','Plums and tomatoes are of the most important stone fruits which have been compatible to a wide range of soil and climatic conditions. These plants are in the Rosacea family, Prunoideae subfamily, and Prunus genus. The most common varieties under cultivation are European plums and Japanese plums. European plums are consumed dry and fresh, while Japanese plums are mostly consumed fresh (Artekien et al, 2006).\r\nMany foods, especially fruits are rich in polyphenolic substances (Gonzalez - Molina et al, 2009). These substances are the most common phytochemical substances in most fruits (Muir et al, 2002). There are significant differences between different genotypes of plum in the total amount of phenolic substances, flavonoids and antioxidant activity. Reports have shown that the antioxidant activity of plums vary between different genotypes. It is also specified that genetic differences are caused the differences in secondary metabolites (Gill et al, 2003; Vasanta Ropasing et al, 2006; Vi','Seyedeh Forough, Seyed Noori Amlashi, Vali Rabiei and Davood Bakhshi (2014). Evaluation of Some Qualitative Characteristics of Wild Plum Genotypes in Northern Iran .Biological Forum â€“ An International Journal 6(1): 92-99.'),(4435,'119','Effect of Peripheral Administration of Ghrelin on Serum Insulin, T3, T4 and Some Biochemical Parameters in Geese','Habib Aghdam Shahryar, Jamshid Ghiasi Ghalehkandi, Alireza Lotfi and Saeid Chekani-Azar','19 HABIB AGHDAM SHAHRYAR.pdf','',1,'Nowadays, ghrelin has been identified in six species of birds (includes chickens, turkey, emu, goose, duck and Japanese quail). In present study, effect of exogenous ghrelin on serum insulin, T3, T4 and some biochemical parameters of geese were investigated. Forty eight 28d old geese were assigned in to 3 treatments and 4 replicates (include 4 birds in each replicate). The experiment was arranged in completely randomized design (CRD). The injected dosage of ghrelin was different in treatments: 0, 50 and 100 Âµg ghrelin/kg BW. Injection procedure was conducted on d 28 of age and before onset of experimental rearing period. 12 h after ghrelin injection, two birds from each replicate of each treatment that had BW close to the mean replicate was subjected to collection of blood sample. Analysis of serum samples show that the injection of ghrelin caused insulin declines in serum (G50 and G100 in comparison with G0). There is lower level of T4 was observed for ghrelin-injected groups which g','Ghrelin, Peripheral administration, Regulatory peptides, Serum biochemical parameters, Geese','Nowadays, ghrelin has been identified in six species of birds (includes chickens, turkey, emu, goose, duck and Japanese quail). In present study, effect of exogenous ghrelin on serum insulin, T3, T4 and some biochemical parameters of geese were investigated. Forty eight 28d old geese were assigned in to 3 treatments and 4 replicates (include 4 birds in each replicate). The experiment was arranged in completely randomized design (CRD). The injected dosage of ghrelin was different in treatments: 0, 50 and 100 Âµg ghrelin/kg BW. Injection procedure was conducted on d 28 of age and before onset of experimental rearing period. 12 h after ghrelin injection, two birds from each replicate of each treatment that had BW close to the mean replicate was subjected to collection of blood sample. Analysis of serum samples show that the injection of ghrelin caused insulin declines in serum (G50 and G100 in comparison with G0). There is lower level of T4 was observed for ghrelin-injected groups which g','Ghrelin passed 15-years from its discovery in mammalian (Kojima et al., 1999). Published literatures have demonstrated major regulatory functions for ghrelin, such as growth hormone-releasing activity (Hashizume et al., 2005); food intake, weight gain and energy balance (Vizcarra et al., 2007). In birds, chicken ghrelin with 26-amino acids and is shorter than human or rat ghrelin, that firstly identified by Kaiya et al. (2002), and until recently ghrelin has been identified in six species of birds includes chickens, turkey, emu, goose, duck and Japanese quail (Kaiya et al., 2008). \r\nGhrelin is multifunctional endocrine peptide which can affect other endocrine hormones and related serum biochemical factors. Mammalian ghrelin has considerrable role in glucose homeostasis by modulation of insulin releasing (Ahima, 2006; CastaÃ±eda et al., 2010). Ghrelin increases blood glucose (Dezaki et al., 2004) and decreases plasma insulin levels in humans and rodents models (Broglio et al., 2001; Dez','Habib Aghdam Shahryar, Jamshid Ghiasi Ghalehkandi, Alireza Lotfi and Saeid Chekani-Azar (2014). Effect of Peripheral Administration of Ghrelin on Serum Insulin, T3, T4 and Some Biochemical Parameters in Geese .Biological Forum â€“ An International Journal'),(4436,'119','Study of the Environmental Threats caused by Migration in Bandar Anzali city ','Parisa Safardokht Bahar','20 PARISA @ HESHMI.pdf','',1,'This study aimed to assess the threat posed by the presence of immigrants on the ecological structure of the city of Bandar Anzali. This study is a descriptive-analytic study. It is done based on the survey method by using library and field studies. Also, questionnaires in the form of 5-point LIKERT Scale have been utilized. SPSS and Excel Software have been used for data analysis and two statistical methods including T-Test and descriptive statistics have been applied. Our results indicate that the presence of immigrants has had negative impacts on environmental structures of the city which in turn had an extensive impact on four main parameters of the city namely on quality of urban hygiene, deterioration of urban landscape, destruction of natural ecosystems and increase in volume of solid wastes.','Immigration, Bandar Anzali City, Immigrants, Environmental threats, Environmental Structure','Migration is considered as an ecological factor which due to various effects that it has is one of those subjects that doesnâ€™t have any expiration date for its exploration. Especially migration is an important issue in urban ecology discussions because it is one of the main factors of population variation and the most important external factor of population amount and creation variation, which has important impacts on other city structures and in continue natural structures. In fact, urban ecology is a field related to different sciences especially geography and environment. With identifying and keeping urban habitats and ecosystems, this science takes a great step towards maintain and keeping them and eventually in keeping and developing of urban nature. One of the important issues, which have been discussed in urban ecology especially in the modern age, is the immigration phenomenon that could have extensive impacts which sometimes these impacts are negative and destructive. One of','Migration is a process that a number of people move from one area to another, (Kazemipoor, 2003). In fact, Migration is displacement between to geographical units or in other words, leaving a territory and entering another one (Mahdavi, 1994). The dynamic relation between humans and location is in the center of the migration phenomenon. Due to the broadness of migration in todayâ€™s world, all human societies are somehow encountered with migration issues especially the migration of youth from villages to cities (Sajjadpour, 2004). Migration is a result of a complex process of decisiveness that involves the individual, origin area and the destination area. Movement and displacement of population in the country can cause development or stagnation in some periods of time (Kazemipour,2003). As identifying the Migration reasons has been analyzed thorough various aspects, recognizing impacts and results of Migration could be at the same level of importance. In fact, being more aware of immig','Parisa Safardokht Bahar (2014).Study of the Environmental Threats caused by Migration in Bandar Anzali city. Biological Forum â€“ An International Journal 6(1): 103-108.'),(4437,'119','The Evaluation of Different Statistical Distributions in Order to Fit Alnus subcordata C.A.M. Species Diameter in Mountainous Forests North of Iran','Mir Mozaffar Fallahchai and Soheil Shokri','21 MIR MOZAFFAR.pdf','',1,'In order to study the diameter of Alnus subcordata trees at breast height (D.B.H.) distribution in Iranâ€™s north forests a stand with one hectare and 201 trees as a random sample had been selected, and the diameters of all trees were measured. The stand under study had trees in all diameter classes; moreover, the trees were healthy. According to the existing studies and experiences and after comparing the real amounts with some statistical models in order to fit these treesâ€™ diameter, Gamma(2p), distribution, Gamma (3p) distribution, chi-square (2p), Error, Dagum (3p), Normal, Johnson SB, Gen.Extreme value and Logistic distributions were applied. The results from Kolmogrof-Smirnov, (k.s.), Anderson-Darling(A.D) and chi-square tests at the probability level of 5% showed that the Dagum (3p) statistical distribution is the most appropriate model in order to fit the Alnus subcordata treesâ€™ diameter in our study area. The mean and the standard deviation of these trees in order are 4','Distribution, Fit, Diameter, Alnus subcordata, North forests of Iran','In order to study the diameter of Alnus subcordata trees at breast height (D.B.H.) distribution in Iranâ€™s north forests a stand with one hectare and 201 trees as a random sample had been selected, and the diameters of all trees were measured. The stand under study had trees in all diameter classes; moreover, the trees were healthy. According to the existing studies and experiences and after comparing the real amounts with some statistical models in order to fit these treesâ€™ diameter, Gamma(2p), distribution, Gamma (3p) distribution, chi-square (2p), Error, Dagum (3p), Normal, Johnson SB, Gen.Extreme value and Logistic distributions were applied. The results from Kolmogrof-Smirnov, (k.s.), Anderson-Darling(A.D) and chi-square tests at the probability level of 5% showed that the Dagum (3p) statistical distribution is the most appropriate model in order to fit the Alnus subcordata treesâ€™ diameter in our study area. The mean and the standard deviation of these trees in order are 4','Alnus subcordata species in Iranâ€™s north forests is considered to be one of the most precious forest trees. The enduring decrease of this species for different reasons has made the necessity of accomplishing research projects about this precious species. This study, also, aims to get more knowledge about Alnus subcordata forests species and its diameter breast height with statistical distributions, so by using them a better management could be done in these forests. An important characteristic such as diameter changes by time and acquaintance with the quality of these changes can help researchers a lot in comparing the current and ideal positions. The study of trees diameter at breast height in a forest stand has a very important role in a standâ€™s growth and production (Burnham 2002; Li-feng, et al., 2010; Lu, et al., 2003). In the past decades quantitative systematic studies been done on trees diameter frequency distribution models in even aged stands (Alder 1995; Chen, et al., 20','Mir Mozaffar Fallahchai and Soheil Shokri (2014).The Evaluation of Different Statistical Distributions in Order to Fit Alnus subcordata C.A.M. Species Diameter in Mountainous Forests North of Iran .Biological Forum â€“ An International Journal 6(1): 10'),(4438,'119','Hibernation on the Nest of the Paper wasp, Polistes (Gyrostoma) olivaceus (De Geer) (Hymenoptera: Vespidae)','Phong Huy Pham','22 PHONG HUY PHAM.pdf','',1,'The hibernation on the nest of the paper wasp, Polistes olivaceus, is observed. Most individual wasps left the nest late January. Three wasps, nevertheless, remained their hibernaculum on the nest till late March. Its hibernant habits are also showed and analyzed. ','hibernation, nest, paper wasp, phenomenon, Polistes olivaceus','The hibernation on the nest of the paper wasp, Polistes olivaceus, is observed. Most individual wasps left the nest late January. Three wasps, nevertheless, remained their hibernaculum on the nest till late March. Its hibernant habits are also showed and analyzed. ','The social wasps belong to the family Vespidae, including 3 subfamilies (Stenogastrinae, Polistinae, and Vespinae) with 37 genera (Picket & Capenter, 2010). Of these, Polistes has received considerable attention. It is a cosmopolitan genus of about 1000 species, most of which are tropical or subtropical in distribution. It forms a separate behavioural category characterized by simply, open nest that can be easily studied. The nests typically comprise a single comb of paper cells which lack any external envelope, and are suspended from above by a slender stalk (Harris, 1979).\r\nPolistes olivaceus, in the genus Polistes, is one of the large distributional species in the world. This species often build its nest in the house of the people. It will however leave its nest when it is disturbed. This is one of the more defensive Polistes species. While it will tolerate activity near the nest, the wokers will be quick to spot, locate and attack all that moves and comes too close. However the att','Phong Huy Pham (2014). Hibernation on the Nest of the Paper wasp, Polistes (Gyrostoma) olivaceus (De Geer) (Hymenoptera: Vespidae).Biological Forum â€“ An International Journal 6(1): 116-119.'),(4439,'119','Hawk moths (Lepidoptera: Sphingidae) from North-West Himalaya along with collection housed in National PAU Insect museum, Punjab Agricultural University, Ludhiana, India','P.C. Pathania, Sunita Sharma and Arshdeep K. Gill','23 DR PC PATHANIA.pdf','',1,'A check list of hawk moths collected from North-West Himalaya and preserved in National PAU Insect Museum, Ludhiana is being represented. 30 species belonging to 20 genera of family Sphingidae have been identified. The paper gives details regarding distribution and synonymy of all these species. ','Collection, Himalaya, moths, Lepidoptera, Sphingidae','A check list of hawk moths collected from North-West Himalaya and preserved in National PAU Insect Museum, Ludhiana is being represented. 30 species belonging to 20 genera of family Sphingidae have been identified. The paper gives details regarding distribution and synonymy of all these species. ','Lepidoptera (moths, butterflies and skippers) includes scaly winged insects is the third largest order after Coleoptera and Hymenoptera in the class Insecta. Sphingidae is one of the family in this order are present. Otherwise family Sphingidae is represented by as many as 1354 species and subspecies on world basis, out of which 204 species belong to India (Hampson, 1892; Bell and Scott, 1937; Roonwal et. al 1964; Dâ€™ Abrera, 1986). As part of the biosystematic studies, inventorization on Sphingid moth diversity was undertaken at the taxonomy laboratory, Department of Entomology, Punjab Agricultural University, Ludhiana. Survey- cum- collection tours were undertaken from various localities such as Jammu, Srinagar, Pahalgaon, Katra (Jammu and Srinagar), Manali, Mandi, Kullu, Hamirpur, Palampur, Kangra, Pathannkot, Una, Bilaspur, Shimla, Solan, Dharampur, Dagshai, YSP Univ. Nauni, Sabhathu, Kasauli, Kumarhatti, Ochghat, Chambaghat, Barog, Salogra, Dedgharat, Kandhagarhat, Waknaghat, Yas','P.C. Pathania, Sunita Sharma and Arshdeep K. Gill (2014). Hawk moths (Lepidoptera: Sphingidae) from North-West Himalaya along with collection housed in National PAU Insect museum, Punjab Agricultural University, Ludhiana, India.Biological Forum â€“ An Int'),(4440,'119','Life History of the Type-Species Pontia daplidice (Linnaeus), the Bath white (Lepidoptera : Pieridae)','Avtar Kaur Sidhu and Manbeer Kaur','24 DR AVTAR KAUR.pdf','',1,'The butterfly Pontia daplidice (Linnaeus) is available in good numbers in the premonsoon period i.e., from the end of March to June in Himachal Pradesh. Its larvae are diphagous. The nectar food plants of the species have been recorded. The egg show remarkable crypsis with buds on which they are laid. The Hymenopteran parasitoid, Tetrastichus sp. cause considerable damage to the larval population in the field. ','Pontia daplidice, Pieridae, life history, behavior, larval parasitoid','The butterfly Pontia daplidice (Linnaeus) is available in good numbers in the premonsoon period i.e., from the end of March to June in Himachal Pradesh. Its larvae are diphagous. The nectar food plants of the species have been recorded. The egg show remarkable crypsis with buds on which they are laid. The Hymenopteran parasitoid, Tetrastichus sp. cause considerable damage to the larval population in the field. ','Pontia daplidice is a migratory butterfly species occurring in Palaearctic region (Wynter-Blyth, 1957; Varshney, 1994). The host plants of the larvae belong to family Brassicaceae and vary according to locality. They include Arabis glabra and Cakile maritima (Bell, 1909). During the course of present studies Lepidium sativum Linnaeus , Senebira didyme (Linnaeus) (Cruciferae) have been recorded its host plants from Solan district (Himachal Pradesh) from north-west India. Lantana camara Linnaeus, Verbena bonariensis Linnaeus, (Verbenaceae); Murraya koenigii (Linnaeus) (Rutaceae) ; Tagetes erecta (Linnaeus), Saussurea candicans Sch-Bip.; Erigeron sp. (Compositae) ; Brassica sp. (Cruciferae) and Oxalis sp. (Oxalidaceae) have been recorded as its nectar food plants from this area. The detailed account of various life history stages is as below :\r\nOBSERVATIONS\r\nLIFE HISTORY STAGES AND DEVELOPMENTAL TIME. \r\nEgg : Incubation period : 2.50 Â± 0.50 days. \r\nHeight 0.80 Â± 0.05 mm, width 0.50 Â± 0','Avtar Kaur Sidhu and Manbeer Kaur (2014). Life History of the Type-Species Pontia daplidice (Linnaeus), the Bath white (Lepidoptera : Pieridae). Biological Forum â€“ An International Journal 6(1): 128-131'),(4441,'119','Six new Records of Birds from Andaman and Nicobar Islands ','C. Sivaperuman, G. Gokulakrishnan, J. Dinesh and K. Venkataraman','25 DR C SIVAPERUMAN.pdf','',1,'-','-','-','The Andaman and Nicobar Islands, popularly known as â€˜Bay Islandsâ€™, are situated in the Bay of Bengal, mid way between peninsular India and Mayanmar, spreading like a broken necklace in the North-south direction. These islands are located between 6Âº 45\' and 13Âº 41\' N and 92Âº 12\' and 93Âº 57\' E. There are 572 islands lies 193 km away from Cape Negrais in Myanmar, 1255 km from Kolkata and 1190 km from Chennai. Total geographic area of Andaman and Nicobar Islands is 8249 km2, of which Andaman group of islands cover 6408 km2 while Nicobar group cover 1841 km2. Out of 572 islands, 37 islands (24 in Andaman and 13 in Nicobar group of islands) are inhabited by human beings. The climate is typical of tropical islands of similar latitude. It is always warm, but with sea-breezes. Rainfall is irregular, but usually dry during the north-east and wet during the south-west monsoons. The Andaman and Nicobar Islands comes under the zone of tropical rain forest of the world. The tropical hot','C. Sivaperuman, G. Gokulakrishnan, J. Dinesh and K. Venkataraman (2014). Six new Records of Birds from Andaman and Nicobar Islands .Biological Forum â€“ An International Journal 6(1): 132-138.'),(4442,'119','Study of Butterfly (Lepidoptera) Diversity around a Protected Reservoir (Kerwa) at Bhopal, India','Archana Mishra, Dr. Neerja Shrivastava and Dr. Praveen Tamot','26 ARCHANA MISHRA.pdf','',1,'Generally observed, butterflies play an important role in maintaining the balance of nature and health of the living world. The number of Indian butterflies amount to one fifth of the world of butterfly species. There are about 28,000 known butterfly species in the world. Bhopal a capital city of Madhya Pradesh is also Known as â€œCity of Lakesâ€ endowed with some nature\'s gift as green belt, Forest environment and beautiful natural and manmade lakes. Kerwa Reservoir is situated 17 km from Bhopal City. The Kerwa Reservoir is surrounded by agricultural fields with rural habitation. Not enough research work on Butterfly has been reported from this neglected biodiversity spot of Kerwa area, may be, this is the pioneer work done on the subject matter. ','Aerial Sweep Nets, Host Plant, Pollination. Butter flies','Urbanization also is associated with habitat degradation including decreased plant species diversity, reduced water quality, and increased air and soil pollutions (Bastin, 1999; Hall et al., 1999; McKinney, 2002; Singh et al., 2009; Garg et al., 2009). \r\nThese recorded species come under the Indian Wildlife (Protection) Act 1972 List e,g., Indian Skipper Syrichtus Galba (Fabricius) and Forget Me Not.\r\nIf we can grow more larva feed plant as landscaping and maintenance more colorful flowering plants at this area gardens and Kerwaâ€™s Reservoir area are carefully planned, the many species of butterflies may increase in the Eco tourism centre campus as well as Kerwa reservoir \'s surrounding. Providing a rich source for butterfly conservation as well as for researcher may be a good scope in future. The reasons of why these species were not found during the study need to be investigated for researcher: Grow more food plant for larva eg. Common Tiger Butterflies needs small herbs twin','Butterflies are found mostly everywhere in the world in a climatically where neither too hot nor too cold temperature. It may be noted that Antarctica is the only continent on which no Lepidoptera (butterflies) have been found. The total number of species of butterflies recorded from the Indian region is about 1501 species (Gaonkar, 1996). Butterflies are the most beautiful and colorful creatures on the earth and have a great aesthetic value. About 1500 species of butterflies are found in India ( Haribal 1992). Some butterflies are migratory. They fly thousands of miles in the winter to places having a warmer climate, and return back in the spring. Butterflies serve as important plant pollinators in the local environment, and help to pollinate more than 50 economically important plant crops (Borges et al., 2003). Butterflies are also good indicators of environmental changes as they are sensitive to habitat degradation and climate changes ( Kunte 2000).\r\nBhopal is known as city of lake','Archana Mishra, Dr. Neerja Shrivastava and Dr. Praveen Tamot (2014)Study of Butterfly (Lepidoptera) Diversity around a Protected Reservoir (Kerwa) at Bhopal, India.Biological Forum â€“ An International Journal 6(1): 139-143. '),(4443,'119','Micropropagation of Karanj (Pongamia pinnata pierre) through Shoot Apex Segments-A Medicinal and Bio-Fuel Plant','Dheeraj Vasu, Anita Sharma, Surendra Pal and Zia ul Hasan','27 DHEERAJ VASU & ANITA SHARMA.pdf','',1,'The Study was undertaken with an objective to develop a protocol for micropropagation of Pongamia pinnata pierre through shoot apex segments shoot of 0.5 to 1.0 cm were collected and used as a explant. The treatment of 1.0 NaOCl (Sodium hypochloride) (W/v) solution 1 minute to 10 minute time duration. These treated explant washed trice with double distilled water and cultured in MS (Murashige and skoog) medium. In this experiment auxin 2, 4-D, NAA and cytokinin BAP, Kinetin were used for optimization of maximum callus induction.\r\nShoot apex explant culturing callus induction maximum callus is produced when MS medium with 3.0 mg/l, 2, 4-D and BAP 0.5 mg/l, the optimized physical condition has to be maintain throughout the experiment. In this study about 30 to 35% mature sotmatic embryos germinated after sub culture from shoot apex. Different concentration and combination of NAA, IAA, IBA and BAP were used to inducted rooting on MS based medium. When the hight in vitro shoot, were reache','Karanj, micropropogation, shoot apex segments, MS','The Study was undertaken with an objective to develop a protocol for micropropagation of Pongamia pinnata pierre through shoot apex segments shoot of 0.5 to 1.0 cm were collected and used as a explant. The treatment of 1.0 NaOCl (Sodium hypochloride) (W/v) solution 1 minute to 10 minute time duration. These treated explant washed trice with double distilled water and cultured in MS (Murashige and skoog) medium. In this experiment auxin 2, 4-D, NAA and cytokinin BAP, Kinetin were used for optimization of maximum callus induction.\r\nShoot apex explant culturing callus induction maximum callus is produced when MS medium with 3.0 mg/l, 2, 4-D and BAP 0.5 mg/l, the optimized physical condition has to be maintain throughout the experiment. In this study about 30 to 35% mature sotmatic embryos germinated after sub culture from shoot apex. Different concentration and combination of NAA, IAA, IBA and BAP were used to inducted rooting on MS based medium. When the hight in vitro shoot, were reache','Pongamia a small genus, medium size tree, seed yield oil biofuel like diesel. Natural propagation is through seeds when remain viable for one year. Artificial regeneration is carried out through direct sowing or transplanting one year old seedling raised in nursery. There are very few reports in literature on reproductive biology of Pongamia. In nature germination of seeds in low and seedling mortality is very high. Due to these reasons the growth of new plant is difficult through seeds in nursery also.\r\nAdvantages in micro-propagation through tissue culture for rapid multiplication in a shoot cycle results in increased number of seedlings. In vitro propagation appears to have permanent advantage in cases where serious problems of disease occur. This is because of the fact that in vitro method given more pathogen free plants and can be maintained economically.\r\nMicro propagation techniques have wide scope in producing uniform germplasm. The present study was conducted with an objective','Dheeraj Vasu, Anita Sharma, Surendra Pal and Zia ul Hasan (2014). Micropropagation of Karanj (Pongamia pinnata pierre) through Shoot Apex Segments-A Medicinal and Bio-Fuel Plant .Biological Forum â€“ An International Journal 6(1): 144-147.'),(4444,'119','Influence of Different Factors on Graft Acceptance in Apis mellifera Linnaeus colonies during Autumn in Punjab','Pardeep Kumar Chhuneja and Arshdeep K. Gill','28 PARDEEP KUMAR CHHUNEJA AND ARSHDEEP K GILL.pdf','',1,'Three factors viz. bee strength/ crowdiness, queenliness of the colony and priming status of queen cell cups were evaluated on graft acceptance. The combined effect of the different levels of bee strength, queenliness and priming status of cell cups was non-significant on the mean number of accepted grafts (out of 90) (5.33-43.67 i.e. 5.92-48.52%).','Apis mellifera, graft acceptance, queen cell cups, royal jelly','Three factors viz. bee strength/ crowdiness, queenliness of the colony and priming status of queen cell cups were evaluated on graft acceptance. The combined effect of the different levels of bee strength, queenliness and priming status of cell cups was non-significant on the mean number of accepted grafts (out of 90) (5.33-43.67 i.e. 5.92-48.52%).','After achieving a breakthrough in honey production in the Punjab, currently the emphasis is on promoting and adoption of diversification in apiculture itself. According to an estimate, while migratory beekeeping ensures a gross profit of Rs 4,000 per annum, a well conceived diversification plan (including queen bee rearing and royal jelly production) would pay a profit of at least Rs. 7,000 (Makkar et al., 2010). Royal jelly has a high nutritional and pharmaceutical value and its demand is continually increasing in the world market. It is rich source of organic fatty acids, amino acids, minerals and vitamins (Krell, 1996). Some research has been conducted in abroad and also in India to evolve / standardize basic technology for royal jelly production from Apis mellifera Linnaeus colonies (Rana, 1996; Singh, 1997). Even the effect of various pollen substitutes on various colony parameters was studied and found helpful in hypopharyngeal glands development and this would be useful for roya','Pardeep Kumar Chhuneja and Arshdeep K. Gill (2014). Influence of Different Factors on Graft Acceptance in Apis mellifera Linnaeus colonies during Autumn in Punjab.Biological Forum â€“ An International Journal (1): 148-151.'),(4445,'119','Morphometric and Meristic Variations in Fins of Channa orientalis (Sch.) from Fresh Water Habitats in Akola District (M.S.) India','A. P. Charjan and K.M. Kulkarni','29 A. P. CHARJAN AND K.M. KULKARNI.pdf','',1,'The fresh water fish which has been selected for present study were Channa orientalis which is locally known as Dhok. The fishes were collected from local dam with the help of fishermen. Thus the present investigation of morphometric and meristic study such as fins length, width, fin ray numbers were to give clear idea and identification of Channa orientalis from other species of same genus from fresh water habitats of Akola district (M.S.) India. The species showed L/W ratio to give phenotypic differences between different fins relating its length, width, and number of fin rays.','Channa orientalis, Morphometric, meristic variations, fins','From obtained results, it is cleared that fresh water fish Channa orientalis showed the phenotypic differences between different fins regarding its length, width and number of fin rays and growth pattern with their increasing body length.','The success of fishery industry largely depends on the growth and reproductive potential of the concerned fish species. The development and improvement of the species mostly depends knowledge of the biology. The shape and structure of fins and fin rays of fishes show modifications due to varied swimming habits, habitat, sex, growth factors, age and size of the fishes; it is also known that the morphometric and meristic parameters are influenced by environmental factors (Weisel, 2000). Information on the morphometric and meristic characteristics of fins of fishes are useful in marking sex determination, species identification and in ascertaining the suitability of cultivable species (Dynes et. al., 1999). Channa orientalis is one of the common commercial species found in rivers, lakes, and other water bodies of study area. Species is rich with nutrients so beneficial for consuming. The species is easy to identify because of its specific snake heads and olive gray colour. This species se','A. P. Charjan and K.M. Kulkarni (2014). Morphometric and Meristic Variations in Fins of Channa orientalis (Sch.) from Fresh Water Habitats in Akola District (M.S.) India. Biological Forum â€“ An International Journal 6(1): 152-153.'),(4449,'123','Behavioral Responses of Freshwater Snail, Viviparus bengalensis to\r\nPlant Toxin in Fruits of Acacia sinuate','Jini Deshmane','4 JINI.pdf','',1,' The aquatic animals are very sensitive to slight change in their surrounding environment due to\r\nwhich their normal behavior get changed. Visually observed behavioral pattern of snails exposed to plant toxin\r\nin fruits of Acacia sinuate were categorized into six types: 1. Protective responses, 2. Tentacle movement, 3. Foot\r\nmovement and mucus secretion, 4. Responses to external stimuli, 5. Mucus secretion of gills, 6. Courtship\r\nbehavior.','Keywords : Viviparous bengalensis, plant toxin, behavior, Acacia sinuate.','The aquatic animals are very sensitive to slight change in their surrounding environment due to\r\nwhich their normal behavior get changed. Visually observed behavioral pattern of snails exposed to plant toxin\r\nin fruits of Acacia sinuate were categorized into six types: 1. Protective responses, 2. Tentacle movement, 3. Foot\r\nmovement and mucus secretion, 4. Responses to external stimuli, 5. Mucus secretion of gills, 6. Courtship\r\nbehavior.','INTRODUCTION\r\nAny change in surrounding evokes abnormality in an\r\nanimal’s behavior. Therefore, behavior of an animal is its\r\nreaction to the surrounding environment. Aquatic animals\r\nare very sensitive to slight change in their surrounding\r\nenvironment due to which their normal behavior gets\r\nchanged. Nagarajah et al. (1985) noticed the behavioral\r\nchanges in some intertidal mollusks after exposure to water\r\nsoluble fraction of diesel. Compbell et al. (2000) reported\r\nthat aluminum and silicilic acid in environment had changed\r\nthe behavior of Lymnaea stagnalis where as mercury and\r\nmercurial salts had changed the behavior of M. articulata\r\n(Saliba and Vella, 1977) and V. bengalensis (Muley and Mane,\r\n1988) respectively. To deal with environmental changes and\r\nto maximize the benefits, organisms evolve a complex set of\r\nmechanisms, which are seen externally by their behaviors.\r\nOne can access toxicological nature of its surrounding with\r\nthe help of behavior of animal (Flarov and Konar, 1974).\r\nAkarte and Mane (1988) had reported that, the bivalve\r\nmolluscs exposed to different test concentrations of folithion\r\nin different seasons and it was seen that the condition of\r\nshell valve movement, mucus secretion and appearance of\r\nexcreta was differed from season to season and species to\r\nspecies.\r\nThe survey of literature indicated that the behavior of\r\nthe gastropods, snails and slugs were changed due to toxic\r\ncompounds including pesticides, metals, phenolic\r\ncompounds and oils in the surrounding medium. The\r\nbehavior of land snail, Helix aspersa was changed due to\r\napplication of some organophosphorus compounds (Rorke\r\net al, 1974). The work is scanty in concern with effect of\r\nplant toxins on molluscs. Hence the present investigation\r\nwas undertaken to find out the behavioral changes, if any,\r\nin freshwater snails, V. bengalensis induced due to plant\r\ntoxin from Acacia sinuate.\r\nMATERIAL AND METHODS\r\nFor the present study the animal selected was locally,\r\nreadily available freshwater snail, V. bengalensis. The snails\r\nwere exposed to fruit extract from Acacia sinuate to study\r\nthe behavioral changes.\r\nThe pre-acclimated snails to the laboratory condition\r\nwere having same size (average length 2.5 ± 1 cm) and equal\r\nweight (average weight 3.5 ± 1 gms) were selected for\r\nexperiment. The snails were exposed to low concentrations\r\n(i.e. 60 and 120 ppm) and higher concentrations (i.e. 240\r\nand 480) of plant toxin for 0 hr. to 96 hrs. After exposure to\r\ndifferent concentrations of plant toxin, visually observed\r\nbehavioral responses were recorded and categorized into\r\nsix types: 1. Protective behavior, 2. Tentacle movements, 3.\r\nFoot movements and secretion of mucus, 4. Responses to\r\nexternal stimuli, 5. Mucus secretion on gills / ctenidium, 6.\r\nCourtship behavior.\r\nRESULTS\r\nNormally, snails in control group creeping in trough from\r\nbottom to surface with the help of foot. They mostly stick\r\nto the trough at the surface edge of water. The to and fro\r\nradular movement was seen. They rasped food plants by\r\nmodule. Their tentacles were protruded out and moved like\r\nwhip side to side and front to back. They inhaled water by\r\nleft nuchal lobe. They showed very quick protective\r\nresponse, (like dragging of body inside shell, excreta\r\ndischarge, discharge of young ones, eggs, embryos, etc.).\r\nThere was tentacle movement and foot movement also.\r\nThey secreted slight mucus on foot. They reacted very\r\nquickly in response to external stimuli. They showed very\r\nwell courting behavior.\r\nIn control group snails, behavioral pattern was not so\r\ndistinct. Observations were made from 0 hrs. Upto 96 hrs.\r\nMore or less all snails behaved normally as they behaved\r\nin their natural environment.\r\nObservations of snails are recorded in table no: 1 to 5.\r\nBiological Forum — An International Journal, 4(1): 18-22(2012) ISSN No. (Print) : 0975-1130\r\nISSN No. (Online) : 2249-3239\r\nDeshmane 19\r\nTable 1 : Behavioral observations of control snails, V. bengalensis.\r\nControl snails\r\nBehavioral response 24 hours 48 hours 72 hours 96 hours\r\nProtective responses They were creeping in Mostly attach to the Same Same\r\ntrough and moving. trought at the water\r\nsurface edge.\r\nTentacle movement The tentacle moved like whip slowly. Same Same Same\r\nFoot movement mucus The peristaltic wave motions were seen Same Same Same\r\nand little mucus was secreted.\r\nResponses to external stimuli Quick and sharp Same Same Same\r\nMucus secretion by gills No whitish secretion by gills. Same Same Same\r\nCourtship behavior Creeping in pairs touches foot, Came closer to each other\r\ntentacle to each other’s. and touches each other. Same Same\r\nTable 2 : Behavioral observations of V. bengalensis during intoxication of plant toxin from.\r\nAcacia sinuate in lower concentration i.e. at 60 ppm.\r\nBehavioral response Duration of intoxication in plant toxin from Acacia sinuate\r\n24 hours 48 hours 72 hours 96 hours\r\nProtective responses They drag their body They were They creep in trough They creep in\r\ninside shell and close creping in troughs slowly, but to avoid trough slowly.\r\ntheir mouth by very slowly. water contact they\r\noperculum. closed their shells\r\nfrequently.\r\nTentacle movement Quite normal It was little fast. Reduced to normal Reduced\r\nFoot movement Foot movement was Again movement Movement goes slow Slow down and no\r\nmucus secretion increased and also was slightly down with increase in much increase in\r\nlittle increase in increased slight secretion. secretion.\r\nsecretion of mucus. increase in\r\nsecretion.\r\nResponses to Quick and sharp. Quick and sharp. Weakened Weakened\r\nexternal stimuli\r\nMucus secretion No whhitish secretion Same Same Same\r\nby gills by gills\r\nCourtship behavior Snails were creeping Snails showed well Showed normal Quite normal\r\nin pairs courtship behavior.\r\nbehavioral pattern\r\nTable 3 : Behavioral observations of V. bengalensis during intoxication of plant toxin from\r\nAcacia sinuate in lower concentration i.e. at 120 ppm.\r\nBehavioral response Duration of intoxication in plant toxin from Acacia sinuate\r\n24 hours 48 hours 72 hours 96 hours\r\nProtective responses The snails drag their No much change Creeping in trough Creeping in trough at\r\nbodies inside shell and close occurred. at bottom slowly. bottom slowly.\r\ntheir mouth by operculum\r\nfor long time.\r\nTentacle movement Little increase was seen. Still it was increasing. Reduced. Reduced very much.\r\nFoot movement mucus Increase in peristaltic Still both were Movement was reduced Peristaltic waves\r\nsecretion waves and mucus was increased. but increase in mucus affected and slowed\r\nsecreted little more. secretion. down mucus\r\nsecretion increased.\r\n20 Deshmane\r\nResponses to Quick and sharp. Quick and sharp. Poor Very Poor.\r\nexternal stimuli No much change occurred. Little mucus was Whitish mucus was Whitish mucus was\r\nMucus secretion by gills secreted. secreted. secreted.\r\nCourtship behavior Snails were moving in pairs They were shown They still shown They liked to be\r\ncourting behavioral courting behavior isolated one.\r\npattern\r\nTable 4: Behavioral observations of V. bengalensis during intoxication of plant toxin from Acacia\r\nsinuate in higher concentration i.e. at 240 ppm.\r\nBehavioral response Duration of intoxication in plant toxin from Acacia sinuate\r\n24 hours 48 hours 72 hours 96 hours\r\nProtective responses Young once are Excreta discharge was Some were creeping Movement of\r\ndischarged with excreta increase still young slowly. creeping snails was\r\nones were discharged. reduced very much.\r\nTentacle movement Increased. Increased. Reduced. Very much reduced.\r\nFoot movement Increase in foot movement Mucus secretion was Movement was affected Thick mucus came\r\nmucus secretion and mucus secretion was seen. increase with and slowed down out of mouth of\r\nperistaltic movement but thick mucus same snails.\r\nwas secreted.\r\nResponses to Sharp. Poor. Very poor. Very very poor.\r\nexternal stimuli\r\nMucus secretion Little mucus was Thick whitish mucus Thick and whitish Whitish thick mucus\r\nby gills secreted. was secreted. mucus was came out of\r\nsecreted and came mouth of snail.\r\nout of mouth.\r\nCourtship Some snails creep No much change had They become No courtship\r\nbehavior in pairs occurred. isolated. behavior was seen.\r\nTable No. 5:- Behavioral observations of V. bengalensis during intoxication of plant toxin from Acacia sinuate\r\nin higher concentration i.e. at 480 ppm.\r\nBehavioral response Duration of intoxication in plant toxin from Acacia sinuate\r\n24 hours 48 hours 72 hours 96 hours\r\nProtective responses Young once were Snails tried to avoid Decrease in excreta All snails\r\ndischarged and excreta toxic environment by discharge. Snails were were died.\r\nalso discharged. dragging their bodies creeping very\r\ninside shell. very slowly.\r\nTentacle movement Fast. Rapid. Reduced. —\r\nFoot movement Slight increase in mucus Foot movement was Reduced foot movement\r\nmucus secretion secretion and foot movement. fastened. More and the thick mucus\r\nincrease in mucus came out of snail’s\r\nsecretion. mouth. —\r\nResponses to Quick. Quick. Weakened very much. —\r\nexternal stimuli\r\nMucus secretion by gills Slight secretion of Whitish secretion of Whitish thick mucus was —\r\nmucus was seen. mucus was seen. secreted which came out\r\nof snails.\r\nCourtship behavior Some snails showed Snails like to be No courtship behavior —\r\nthis behavior. isolated one. was seen.\r\nDeshmane 21\r\nVisually observed behavior of the snails, V. bengalensis\r\nwas categorized into six types :-1. Protective behavior, 2.\r\nTentacular movement, 3. Foot movement and secretion of\r\nmucus, 4. Responses to external stimuli, 5. Mucus secretion\r\nby gills 6. Courtship behavior.\r\nDISCUSSION\r\nThe normal behavior of the snail was changed when\r\nexposed to plant toxin from fruits of Acacia sinuate. These\r\nchanges were time dependent. It was also found that\r\nirrespective of concentrations of plant toxins, behavior of\r\nsnail at 24 hrs. was quite different from that of 48 hrs. and\r\nbehavior of snails at 48 hrs. was different from that of 72\r\nhrs. and so on. In intoxicated snails movement in lower\r\ndoses of plant toxin was changed and snails tried to avoid\r\ndirect contact of plant toxin. Therefore, they took shelter in\r\nthe shell and closed their mouth by operculum. Such\r\nprotective response was dose and time dependent. Muley\r\nand Mane (1988) have also observed such behavioral\r\nchanges in this snail due to toxicity of mercury salts.\r\nThe movements of tentacles were fastened initially at\r\nlower concentrations of plant toxin in fruits of A. sinuate.\r\nBut in higher concentration of this toxin these movements\r\nwere affected and become slowed down from 72 hrs in 480\r\nppm lulled due to toxic effect of this plant toxin.\r\nThe secretion of mucus by foot is the normal\r\nphenomenon of snails while creeping on substratum. Such\r\nmucus secretion by foot was also observed in this aquatic\r\nsnail V. bengalensis. But interestingly it was noticed the\r\nquantitative and qualitative changes in mucus secretion\r\nduring intoxication of this plant toxin in this snails. At\r\nlower concentration little, colorless mucus was secreted by\r\nthese organs. But with increase in concentration of plant\r\ntoxin, the secretion of mucus was also increased. The foot\r\nsecretes thick and large amount of mucus while gills secrete\r\nmore whitish mucus, which comes out of mouth in higher\r\nconcentrations of plant toxins with increasing time interval.\r\nGokhale and Mane (1990) found there was diapedesis started\r\nfrom 12 hrs. in fluoride exposed animals in form of white\r\ncoagulated matter with mucus. The change in quantity and\r\nquality might have been to conteract the toxic chemical\r\nreactions in the cells of contact organs. Thus, it might\r\nhave involved in detoxification process of the organism. But\r\nas the thickness and quantity of the mucus increased, there\r\nseemed a load on the respiration of the snails. Hence\r\nvoluminous thick secretions of mucus on the ctenidium near\r\nmouth may cause the death of snails at 240 ppm from 72\r\nhrs. intoxication. Such type of more secretion of mucus on\r\nfoot, proboscis and ctenidium in V. Bengalensis due to\r\nintoxication by folithion and lebaycid was observed by\r\nMuley and Mane (1988).\r\nInitially behavioral responses were quick and sharp. But\r\nduring intoxication such responses were delayed and\r\nweakened. The responses were dependent on the\r\nconcentration of plant toxin used and duration of\r\nintoxication. Akarte and Mane (1988) had reported that, the\r\nmollusks exposed to different test concentration in different\r\nmonths of season showed the condition of shell valve\r\nmovement, mucus secretion and appearance of excreta\r\ndiffered from season to season and from species to species.\r\nWhen bivalves were dead due to intoxication, the parts of\r\nbody comes out of shell with swollen foot. In present\r\ninvestigation it was seen that at 72 hrs. in 240 ppm and\r\nat72 and 96 hrs in 480 ppm, some snails were dead and\r\nsome body parts of that snails also came out of shell with\r\nswollen foot.\r\nTherefore, in present study it was seen that the\r\nresponses at 24 hrs, 48 hrs, 72 hrs and 96 hrs were different.\r\nAt higher doses snails didn’t respond, it might be due to\r\nintoxication effect on central nervous system which get\r\naffected and snails were die off. In present study, these\r\nsnails due to closing of their shells tolerated the plant toxin\r\nat all concentrations. With lapse of time as the toxic water\r\nslowly penetrated into the visceral body due to frequent\r\nopening and this may be the cause of swelling of foot and\r\nvisceral part and also physiological damage of the tissues.\r\nFrom present investigation it may be concluded that the\r\nplant toxins from A. sinuate affects the central nervous\r\nsystem which leads to abnormal behavior of snails, V.\r\nbengalensis.\r\n\r\n','Jini Deshmane (2012). Behavioral Responses of Freshwater Snail, Viviparus bengalensis to Plant Toxin in Fruits of Acacia sinuate.Biological Forum — An International Journal, 4(1): 18-22.'),(4450,'112','Constraints and Suggestions for Effective Utilization of Social Media in Agriculture- An Analysis','Guntukogula Pattabhi Sandeep*, Pasunoori Prashanth, Middhe Sreenivasulu and Anne Madavilata','297 Constraints and Suggestions for Effective Utilization of Social Media in Agriculture- An Analysis Guntukogula Pattabhi Sandeep.pdf','',1,'Information Communication Tools (ICTs) revolutionized the way of communication. Social media platforms dominated the medium of communication in last second half of the decade. The use of social media platforms is gaining importance and substantial number research institutes are disseminating the information in these platforms. Communication among these social media platforms rapidly increasing in agriculture at all stakeholder’s level. The current investigation taken to study what are the major constraints and suggestions among farming community in effective dissemination of agricultural information. Primary data collected from 120 farmers covering are area of Southern Telangana Zone (STZ) in state Telangana. The results shown that insufficient skill ranked top in personal level constraints with mean score 2.64, followed by low knowledge, high cost etc. Among the technological constraints, language problem in using social media ranked top with mean 2.47. Poor and late replies from the expert on social media and consumes more time to get information ranked top two with mean scores 2.45 and 2.40 respectively in situational constraints. e-Mail as mandatory and frequent updates are other constraints reported by the respondents. Provision of special internet packages ranked top followed by specific alternative information, quick response, personal visit of expert etc. are the few suggestions given by the respondents for effective dissemination of agriculture information on social media. The results of the study reported major constraints at personal, technological, situational and other constraints in using social media as source of agricultural information. Study also documented the suggestions from the farmers for effective utilization of social media as medium of communication, which are useful to agricultural information providers.','Social media, Agriculture, Agricultural Information, Constraints, Suggestions and Effective utilization','A critical analysis of constraints and suggestion from the perception of farmers as the receivers of agricultural information disseminated through social media releveled the major personal constraints, technical constraints, situational constraints and other constraints in using social media. The constraints lacking sufficient skills in using the platforms effectively, content language, poor and late replies etc. need to be addressed. The suggestions given by farmers i.e., providing special internet package, alternate and complete information of agro advisories, quick response from expert etc., are the important suggestions that will improve in effective utilization of social media platforms as source of agricultural information. Irrespective of the constraints the social media platforms are familiar in field level and used as the major medium in communicating the agricultural information. This paper thrown light on the few major constraints and suggestions that are helpful in effective dissemination of agricultural information, and it is important to note that social media platforms made accessibility of disseminating the information in cheaper cost, faster way and reach large number of audiences. The social media platforms have potential of becoming of the major medium of disseminating agricultural information in next few years.','INTRODUCTION\r\nInformation plays key role in any decision making and it is as important as the other inputs for better productivity. Agricultural information plays major role in all decision makings of farmers from selection of crop to selling the produce in market. The agricultural research institutes, state and central department of agriculture and NGOs working on agriculture are the major sources of new agricultural information. The extension system making efforts in disseminating the developed agricultural information from research system to ultimate end users. Extension system updated itself in disseminating way information along with the technological advancement in field of Information Communication Technologies (ICTs). From the radio to latest mobile applications, each and every opportunity was effectively utilized by the extension system in service of farming community. Social media platforms dominated the way of communication in second half of the last decade. Social media is described as a modern communication channel through which people connect to each another, share ideas, experiences, pictures, messages and information of interest. They are an interactive network in which ICTs bequeath to modern society through the instrumentally of the internet and the telecommunication gadgets (Eke et al., 2014). Social media has been the fastest adopted media technology in the world as it took around 38 years for radio, 13 years for television, 4 years for iPod, 3 years for internet but one year for Facebook and 9 months for twitter to reach 50 million users (Chui et al., 2012). Social media is now everywhere used by all age groups of people including farmers in every walk of life as it has revolutionized the means of communication. It has engrossed the attention of large number of farmers as it is the fastest and cheapest means of communication brought about by advancement in the IT sector. The social media is becoming a very important tool in farming to with farmers, extension worker and agribusiness people around the world over large geographical distances and it plays important role in enhancing interactions and information flows among different people involved in agricultural innovation and enhance capacities of agricultural extension and advisory service providers. The power of social media based on its features that applied to a whole range of applications that involve interaction between people (Chui et al., 2012). Social media became part of adolescent’s life and WhatsApp is most familiar application (Patra and Gogoi, 2021). WhatsApp, Facebook, and YouTube are more familiar at field level among all social media platforms and extension personnel should develop content accordingly in such a way that reach farmers more effectively through these social media platforms (Sandeep et al., 2020). The advantages of using social media are beyond cost-effective ways of communication to empowerment (Neill et al., 2011). The social media has become a preferred media for receiving and further sharing information among all the stake holders (Sharma et al., 2020). Social media has been affecting various sectors including the agriculture sector. Platforms like Twitter, Facebook and WhatsApp are encouraging interaction among users and in sharing of information. Today farmers are using social media platforms to access information, spread information and for improving their knowledge and skills. The potential of social media is hindered by the constrains facing at the field level at users’ level and need to be addressed for the better utilization. Bhattacharjee and Raj (2016) reported that major drawbacks in using social media are faulty internet connections, unproductive use of time, control internet footprint, lack of enterprise in using social media and fear of missing out are major constraints in using social media. Darshan and Meena (2017) reported that weak research linkage, unsuitable and incomprehensible information, lack of response, time constraint etc. are the constraints in using social media in agriculture. The current investigation is conducted to identify the major constraints from the farmers level respondents directly and document the major suggestion given the farmers.\r\nMETHODOLOGY\r\nThe state Telangana was selected for the study and all three erstwhile districts from STZ were selected as study area. Total of 12 villages selected from 6 Mandals randomly and selected two Mandals from each district. Ten respondents from each village and total of 120 were selected as sample in the study. An exhaustive list of various constraints to use social media services pertaining to personal, technological and situation domains was prepared and for their measurement, a set of statements was administered to the respondents and any other constraints faced by respondents are recorded and their level of agreement i.e., Agree, undecided, disagree was obtained and quantified with the respective scoring 3, 2 and 1. Open ended suggestions list were collected from each respondent for effective utilization of social media in agriculture. Frequencies and mean scores for each of these statements were worked out for relative rankings of the major barriers and suggestions to use social media as a source for agriculture information.\r\nRESULTS AND DISCUSSION\r\nConstraints referred to the events or factors that obstruct social media usage by farmers in connection with accessing agriculture information. From the Table 1 it can be observed that the “Insufficient skills in using social media by farmers” ranked first with mean score of 2.64, followed by statement “Low knowledge on services available in social media” with mean score of 2.47, “High cost of data and smart phones” with mean score of 2.39, “Lack of motivation to adopt social media services” with mean score 2.38, “Age factor is restricting to use social media” with mean score of 2.16, “Inability to update in technological communication” with mean score 2.15, “Fear in using digital technologies by farmers” with mean score 2.08, “Low preference towards social media usage” with mean 2.00, “Lack of confidence in social media platforms” with mean score 1.96, “Shortage of time to use social media” with mean score 1.91, similar constraint was reported by (Singh et al., 2015) and “Fear of addiction or overuse of social media platforms” with mean score 1.73.\r\nFrom the results of data presented in Table 1, it can be depicted that insufficient skills, low knowledge levels on services available, high cost of data packages and smartphones, low motivation, age factor, inability to update with technology, fear and low preference are major constraints perceived by the respondent as the mean score is 2.00 and above. The skills and knowledge levels can be increased by bringing awareness programmes and training to improve digital literacy competence among the farming community. Special internet packages with small amount data per day can be introduced and mobile phones which can operate for needs of the farmers can be developed with low cost for better reaching the advantages of the technology. Extension system can make better content development with using more picture based and video-based content of information which makes audience to engage better way in utilizing these social media platforms.\r\nFrom the Table 2, it can be observed that the constraint “Language problem in using social media” ranked top with mean score 2.53, followed by “Lack of authenticity of individuals in social media” with mean score 2.50, “Restricted availability of agriculture services in social media” with mean score 2.48, “ Complexity of social media application” with mean score 2.47, “Irrelevant information posting by members” with mean score 2.47 and “ Irrelevancy of content on social media” with mean score 2.42. All the statement were reported means score more than 2.0. The constraint of language problem can be addressed by developing content in local vernacular language as the social media platforms supports almost all formats of languages. The content providers can be mentioned \r\ntheir authenticity and details, it important that major research institutes can apply for verified tags from respective social media platforms. Integration of content in different social media platforms will help to avoid he restricted availability as the content disseminated in all platforms will help to reach more audience. The interface of the social media platforms can be more simplified and the machine learning of these can be improve in such way that, it can help user to easily locate the required information. It is strongly recommended that respective admins or hosts of the group or page need to verify the content that circulating in the platform. The unscientific information can be immediately removed or edited. \r\nFrom the Table 3, it was reported that the statement “Poor/late replies from experts on social media” ranked top with mean score of 2.45 and similar constraint was reported by (Darshan and Meena, 2017); (Abdullahi et \r\nal., 2021), followed by “Consumes more time to get information” with mean score 2.40, “Poor participation of other member in social media groups” with mean score 2.30, “Inadequate services on social media” with mean score 2.23, “Lack of faith on social media platforms” with mean score 2.11, “Poor network connectivity in rural areas” with mean score 2.06, “Believing in only traditional extension system” with mean score 2.02, the finding is in connection with findings of (Navinkumar et al., 2017) and “Insufficient infrastructure in villages” with mean score 1.98. The constraint poor or late replies can be addressed by the quick replies and frequent updates from the admin of the social media platforms. The lack of confidence can be addressed by proving the more authentic information and with timely relevant information.\r\nFrom the Table 4, it can be observed that the 52.50 per cent of the respondents reported that “e-mail mandatory in creation of social media platforms” and 35.00 per cent reported that “Social media applications are asking \r\nfor frequent updates”. Phone number can be made as mandatory for creation of social media platforms and stable type of lite applications can be developed with less frequent updates.\r\nFrom the Table 5, it can be observed that the suggestion “ Provision of special internet package for farmers” with rank one with frequency 80.00 per cent, followed by “ Specific alterative information should also provide along with information” with 78.33 per cent, “Quick response from experts on social media platforms” with 77.50 per cent, “Personal visit of the experts along with the provision of agro advisories through social media” with 76.67 per cent, “Providing training for famers to use digital platforms” with 73.34 per cent, “ Reducing cost of mobile phones” with 72.50 per cent, “Crop based group networks need to develop in social media platforms” with 71.67 per cent, “Always right and appropriate information in social media form experts and other fellow farmers” with 70.83 per cent, “ Information in format of message should provide along with the video or voice or image” with 68.33 per cent, “Specific and complete detailed information should \r\nprovide regarding the chemical dosages” with 66.67 per cent, “Discussion in social media should be more interactive” with 65.83 per cent, “Content should be in local language” with 63.33 per cent, “Information should be location specific by experts” with 62.50 per cent, “Marketing information should give priority” with 61.67 per cent, “Better internet connectivity in rural area” with 59.10 per cent, “Chronological publication of information crop wise in social media” with 57.50 per cent, “Provision of subsidy in purchase of smart phones” with 54.70 per cent and “More photo and video-based content” with 51.67 per cent. It is recommended that the suggestions given by farmers i.e., special internet package to farmer can be given by internet service providers, the extension system and the admins are requested to send the alternative information for better adaptability of advisories based on availabilities as early as possible. It is important \r\nsuggestion that personal visit to the farmer by experts’ field along with the agro advisories providing through social media. As communication technologies increasing rapidly it is as important that the competence skills among the people to use them also need to be addressed and training programmes on improving the digital skills need to conduct in large way. The suggestion complete information needed in content need to keep as one of the criteria in content development of social media. The suggestion more interactive throws light on that the groups that need to active participation on all participants and discussion. \r\n','Guntukogula Pattabhi Sandeep, Pasunoori Prashanth, Middhe Sreenivasulu and Anne Madavilata (2022). Constraints and Suggestions for Effective Utilization of Social Media in Agriculture- An Analysis. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 14(1): 1688-1692.'),(4453,'112','Genetic variability based on Morphological and Biochemical characterization of Naga King Chilli Genotypes (Capsicum chinense Jacq.)','Moatoshi Jamir, Pankaj Shah*, Azeze Seyie and S. P. Kanaujia','298 Genetic variability based on Morphological and Biochemical characterization of Naga King Chilli Genotypes Capsicum chinense Jacq. Moatoshi Jamir.pdf','',1,'The state of Nagaland has tremendous diversity for Naga king chilli. With a view to characterize different genotypes morphologically and biochemically the present study was conducted for two consecutive years with 11 Naga King chilli (Capsicum chinense Jacq.) genotypes procured from different parts of Nagaland. The experiment was conducted at the research farm of department of Genetics and Plant Breeding, Nagaland University, SASRD, Medziphema during February-October 2018-2019. It is also known as world’s hottest chilli. The principal ingredient Capsaicin is the main biochemical constituent is responsible for hotness. Naga King Chilli besides being used as a spice and a food additive, has a wide spectrum of application including, pain therapy, anti-obesity, anticancer, antioxidant, antimicrobial, anti-diabetic, relieving arthritis, frostbite, respiratory ailments, lachrymatory agent etc. The fresh fruit also have significant amount of vitamin B, vitamin C, vitamin E and pro vitamin A. In the present investigation sixteen genotypes of king chilli from different regions of Nagaland, India have been collected and analyzed for beta-carotene, ascorbic acid content, moisture content and capsaicin content. The result indicated that beta-carotene (0.58-4.88 mg/100g), ascorbic acid contents (154.67-198.00 mg/100g), moisture content (80.97-85.20 percent) and capsaicin content (0.61-1.96) ranged between the eleven genotypes and showed highly significant among them.','Ascorbic acid, Beta-carotene, Capsaicin and King chilli','At present due to the occurrence of genetic erosion caused by interchanging of local cultivars of Naga King Chilli with improved ones, it has become immensely necessary to conserve genetic diversity. In Naga King Chilli, a wide diversity of plant and fruit character is quite apparent, which holds eminent potential for developing high yielding varieties with desirable characters through appropriate breeding methods. The analysis of variance indicated significant differences for all the traits under study. This revealed the presence of genetic variability in the breeding material under investigation. The genotype T1 recorded the highest beta-carotene content, genotype T8 for highest ascorbic contentT7 has the highest content of capsaicin and moisture and it can be utilized for successful breeding programmes. The study on morphological and biochemical characterization of different genotypes of Naga king chilli provided a clear picture of different variants of the species on the basis of morphological and biochemical variations. The crop is commercially very important as it has got GI tag in 2008. It has tremendous export potential and its various genotypes were needed to be characterized on these important aspects. The micro-climatic variations play a crucial role on morphological and biochemical attributes of the species. The present efforts paved the path for further evaluation of various genotypes over varying micro-climatic conditions of the state of Nagaland.','INTRODUCTION\r\nIn India, Naga King Chilli is appraised as India’s hottest chilli and was previously regarded as the world’s hottest chilli having Scoville heat units (SHU’s) rating of 1,001,304 (Bosland and Baral, 2007). The pungent principle of chilli fruit is capsaicinoids, a family of compounds that give them the characteristic pungent taste. The chilli was recorded to be the hottest chilli in the world in 2006 with a Scoville heat unit (SHU) rating of 1,001,304. Currently it occupies the fifth position among the hottest chillies in the world. The fruits are also sources of vitamins A, complex B1 and B2 and minerals such as dietary calcium, iron and phosphorus. The content of vitamin C in the Capsicum fruit is higher than in Citrus. The moisture estimation in king chilli was 86.75 ±0.82 in green stage and 83.26 ±0.56 in red stage (mature) (Malakar, 2019). This chilli is grown mainly in the state of Nagaland, Assam and Manipur and to some extent in Mizoram, Arunachal Pradesh and Meghalaya. It is also cultivated in the north eastern region of Bangladesh (Bhuyan et al., 2015). Because of its commercial importance, the Nagaland Government obtained the Geographical Indication (GI) of Goods tag for Naga King Chilli in the year (Registration and Protection) Act 1999, to provide some safety net to Naga farmers in the cultivation of the King Chilli. Nagaland Government has obtained the GI rights for this product in 2008.\r\nKing Chilli (Capsicum chinense Jacq.) is grown widely in North Eastern Region of India. The chromosome number of king chilli is 2n=24 and it is a self- pollinated plant; however, considerable cross pollination (upto 10 percent) may occur when insect population is high. The word “Capsicum” was possibly derived from Greek word “Kepso” meaning “to bite” with reference to the dominant pungency stimulated by the spice chilli. A number of chilli variants in the north- eastern region of India (Kumar et al., 2011) are distinguished with different local names such as Naga chilli in Nagaland, Bhut Jolokia in Assam and U-Morok in Manipur (Sanatombi et al. 2010; Verma et al. 2013). It was first introduced by the Portuguese towards the end of 15th Century (Indira et al., 2007). Naga King Chili (Capsicum chinense Jacq.) was certified as “the World’s Hottest Chilli” by the Guinness World Records in September 2006, measuring 855,000 scoville heat units (SHUs), beating the “Mexican red savanna habaneros” (5,77,000 SHUs) (Sharma, 2014). Officially it was declared as the hottest of all spices on 9th September 2006 by Guinness world record limited. (Kalita, 2007). The King chilli with its high pungency renders an immense scope both in domestic and international market. Though, it has been reported that about 1000 tonnes of King chilli is produced every year in North Eastern region, however in Nagaland no authenticated estimates are available as the crop is cultivated in an unorganized sector. The amount of capsaicinoids in a chili pepper is dependent upon the genetic makeup of the plant and the environment where it is grown Zewdie and Bosland, (2000). King Chili is also known for its richness in ascorbic acid, avery essential antioxidant for human nutrition and proper functioning of body (Igwemmar et al., 2013). \r\nKeeping in mind that Naga king chilli is a potential crop for North Eastern region of India for domestic and export purpose, an attempt has been made to study the morphological and biochemical characterization of Naga king chilli genotypes.\r\nMATERIALS AND METHODS\r\nThe present investigation was conducted for two growing Seasons i.e. 2018 and 2019 under open field condition located in the Experimental Farm of Genetics and Plant Breeding NU: SASRD. The experiment was conducted in Randomized Block Design (RBD) with three replications accommodating 12 plants in each plot of (3 × 2) m2 with a spacing of 75 cm between the plants and rows. The experimental materials in the present study comprise of eleven genotypes of Naga King Chilli procured from different hotspot growing locations in Nagaland. The particulars of the landraces are presented in Table 1. The observations were recorded for the characters such as Stem colour, plant growth habit, branching habit, leaf size, leaf shape, leaf colour, ripe fruit colour, fruit shape, anther colour, seed colour and fruit surface were recorded for each landrace (Table 2).\r\nBeta-carotene (mg per 100 g). The Beta–Carotene was determined by the method described by Ranganna (1997). The sample of 2 g of fresh ripen Bhut jolokia fruits was taken and crushed with acetone and decanted into conical flask and continued the extraction till the residue was colourless. The collected extract was then transferred into a separating funnel and 25-30 ml of petroleum ether (60-80%) was added with 5-10 ml of 5 % (Na)2SO4 petroleum ether was repeatedly used until all the colour got transferred into the petroleum ether layer. Volume was made upto 25 ml with petroleum ether and colour intensity was measured at 460 nm using a spectrophotometer. The ß- Carotene content was calculated using the following formula.\r\n \r\nAscorbic acid (mg per 100 g). Ascorbic acid was determined by using 2, 6-Dichlorophenol indophenols dye (Fred and Walter 1996). The sample of 5 gram was \r\ntaken and volume was made upto 50 ml with 4% oxalic acid. 10 ml of filtrate was mixed with 10 ml of 4% oxalic acid and titrated against the standard dye. Amount of ascorbic acid was calculated and expressed as mg/100g.\r\nMoisture content (percentage). The moisture of the sample represents the most abundant constituent i.e. the water ranging from nearly 50–90% of the total chemical composition and is expressed in percentage (%). The moisture content on fresh weight basis was determined by drying to constant weight with the help of moisture meter/Oven drying method. The estimation was done in triplicate and the mean of the three estimations was recorded as percentage of moisture content. Moisture was determined by drying a representative of five grams per sample in an oven with air circulation at 100-105°C for six hours and the percentage was calculated where MC (moisture content), IW (initial weight) and DW (dry weight).\r\n \r\nCapsaicin (mg per 100 g)\r\nCapsaicinoids extraction for uHPLC. Fully matured fresh fruits of Capsicum chinense Jacq. was dried in oven (Yorco hot air sterilizer) at 60˚C for two hours and crushed into powder using mortal pestle. Ethanol solvent was used for capsaicinoids extraction for the preparation of chilli extract. For preparation of extract, two grams of dried chilli powder was dissolved in 4 mL of ethanol solvent and kept in water bath at 80˚C for three hours, manually inverted after every hour. The samples were then kept in room temperature for cooling. The supernatant layer of each sample was filtered through Nylon 33mm0.45 µm filter (Axiva Schem. Pvt. Ltd.) The filtered extract was then stored at 4˚C.\r\nHigh Performance Liquid Chromatography analysis. uHPLC Ultimate 3000 (Thermo scientific) system equipped with a Finnigan Surveyor Auto Sampler Plus, a Finnigan Surveyor LC Plus quaternary pump and a surveyor photodiode array (PDA) detector was used for uHPLC analysis. Betasil C18 column (particle size 3µm, dimension 150 × 4.6 mm) from Thermo Scientific was used. The column temperature was maintained at 60˚C, sampler temperature was at 20˚C and sample volume: 5 µl. Binary mixture of water- acetonitrile at 50:50 ratio was used as mobile phase and the flow rate was 1.5 ml/min resulting in a total run time of 15 min per injection. UV detection wavelength was set as 222 nm. The standard solutions of 20, 40, 60, 80, 100 µg/g of 21750- 100MG-F Capsaicin (Sigma, Life Sciences) was used to prepare calibration curve by injecting in triplicate the five -increasing concentrations of standard.\r\nCapsaicinoid quantification. The major capsaicinoids were determined by comparing the samples with that of external reference standards which were run under the same conditions as that of samples. On the basis of retention times identification was done while the peak areas were used for quantitative determination. The concentrations of capsaicinoid in the sample are expressed as percentage.\r\nStatistical Analysis. Statistical analysis of the data was carried out by using Indo Stat and for significant results mean was done using LSD at 5%.\r\nRESULTS AND DISCUSSION\r\nEleven qualitative characters were deliberated based on phenotypic observations during the growing season as shown in Table 2.\r\n Beta-Carotene (mg per 100g). Highly significant differences were observed for Beta-Carotene. The Beta-Carotene per plant was recorded highest in genotype T1 (4.88) mg per 100g followed by the genotype T9 (4.17) mg per 100g and T3 (3.67) mg per 100g, while the lowest was observed in genotype T4 (0.58) mg per 100g followed by T11 (1.35) mg per 100 g and T10 (1.49) mg per 100g. The general mean for Beta-carotene was recorded 2.51 mg per 100g. Ngozi et al. (2020) also found similar findings while studying ten genotypes of pepper (Capsicum annuum L.) and according to the nutrients analyzed, total beta-carotene ranged from 4-7 mg per 100 g.\r\nAscorbic acid (mg per 100g). Significant differences were found for Ascorbic acid. The Ascorbic acid per plant was recorded highest in genotype T8 (198.00) mg per 100g followed by the genotype T7 (196.00) mg per 100g and T11 (193.00) mg per 100 g, while the lowest was observed in genotype T9 (154.67) mg per 100g followed by T6 (169.67) mg per 100 g and T10 (175.00) mg per 100 g. The general mean for Ascorbic acid was recorded 181.15 mg per 100g.Similar findings have been obtained by Orobiyi et al. (2015) while studying in 22 high yielding chili pepper landraces of northern Benin, the ascorbic acid (vitamin C) content varied from 84.64mg to 192.64 mg per 100g of fresh weight with an average of 125.70 mg.\r\n Moisture content (percent). Significant differences were found for Moisture content. The moisture content per fruit of the plant was recorded highest in genotype T7 (85.20) per cent followed by the genotype T9 (84.40) per cent and T10 (84.23) per cent. The lowest was recorded in genotype T4 (80.97) per cent. The general mean was recorded 83.56 per cent. Similar results have been obtained by Malakar (2019) which reported that composition of king chilli the moisture estimation was 86.75 ±0.82 in green stage and 83.26 ±0.56 in red stage (mature).\r\n Capsaicin content (percent). Significant differences were recorded for the capsaicin content. The highest capsaicin content was recorded in the genotype T7 (1.96) per cent followed by the genotype T5 (1.77) per cent and T11 (1.74) per cent. The lowest was recorded in the genotype T4 (0.61) per cent followed by T1 (0.87) per cent and T11 (1.74) per cent. The general mean for capsaicin content was 1.36 per cent. Our results have some similarity with Mena et al. (2018) for capsaicin content while studying sixteen genotypes of king chilli from different states of North East India were collected and analyzed to quantify their dry fruit yield, ascorbic acid contents, capsaicin content, α-Carotene and ß-carotene. The result indicated that dry fruit yield (0.01-0.04 kg/plant), ascorbic acid contents (92.07-301.11 mg/100g), capsaicin content (0.75-4.65 %).\r\n','Moatoshi Jamir, Pankaj Shah, Azeze Seyie and S.P. Kanaujia (2022). Genetic variability based on Morphological and Biochemical characterization of Naga King Chilli Genotypes (Capsicum chinense Jacq.). Biological Forum – An International Journal, 14(1): 1693-1697.'),(4454,'112','Biocontrol activity of Trichoderma viride, Trichoderma harzianum, Bacillus subtilis and Pseudomonas fluorescens (in vitro) against Bipolaris oryzae, causal agent of rice brown spot disease','Badavath Kishore, Anshu Kumar*, Pravesh Shivakoty and Venu Emmadi','299 Biocontrol activity of Trichoderma viride, Trichoderma harzianum, Bacillus subtilis and Pseudomonas fluorescens _in vitro_ against Bipolaris oryzae, causal agent of rice brown spot diseBadavath Kishore.pdf','',1,'Rice is one of the crops that farmers cultivate on a regular basis, and it is a essential cereal grain for everyone. Diseases are one of the major causes which hampered the plant produce. Rice brown spot is a devastating disease of rice which is caused by Bipolaris oryzae and accounts for huge yield losses, despite the fact there are limited management practices available. Biocontrol agents offered environment friendly management of diseases and they are currently preferred over the usage of chemicals. In this view, dual culture technique was employed with biocontrol agents (Trichoderma viride, T. harzianum, Pseudomonas fluorescens and Bacillus subtilis) against Bipolaris oryzae. In vitro studies indicated that of all the biocontrol agents utilised in this investigation, Trichoderma viride was shown to be the most antagonistic. Trichoderma viride (61.95%) was the most effective at inhibiting mycelial growth, followed by Trichoderma harzianum (59.78%). Among the bacterial biological control, Bacillus subtilis had the highest percent inhibition (45.52%), followed by Pseudomonas fluorescence (39.05%). This study may stimulate other researchers to evaluate different biocontrol agents against Bipolaris oryzae in order to better manage the disease. ','Brown spot, Biopolaris oryzae, Biocontrol agents, in vitro','In the present study, among fungal biocontrol agent, Trichoderma viride perform exceptionally well in controlling the brown spot of rice under in vitro condition. Microorganisms are naturally active in suppressing pathogens by micoparasitism, antibiosis, or the formation of pathogen-inhibiting volatile chemicals. According to the findings of this study, Bacillus subtilis emerged as a promising candidate for suppressing rice brown spot in vitro. The result concludes that indigenous species of Trichoderma and Bacillus strain has a great possibility of becoming a viable antagonist against Bipoaris oryzae. Biocontrol agents can be our new pillar in disease management strategies and their mechanism of action, compatibility with other components of integrated disease management and their efficiency in field are all key topics that need to be thoroughly researched. These findings could pave the way for the agriculture industry to adopt more ecologically friendly farming practices.','INTRODUCTION\r\nRice (Oryza sativa L.) is the most widely cultivated crop in the world, and it is a staple cereal food for millions of people. Bipolaris oryzae (teleomorph=Cochliobolus miyabeanus) causes Brown spot of rice and considered as one of the most important disease of rice throughout the world (Khalili et al., 2012; Reddy et al., 2010; Savary et al., 2000). It is responsible for a drop of 26 to 52 percent grain yield (Chakrabarti, 2001). In India, the catastrophic Bengal famine of 1942-43 was the result of this disease which accounts for 50-90 per cent yield loss and death of over 4 million people (Chakrabarti 2001; Padmanabhan, 1973). Bipolaris oryzae causes symptoms of dark brown spots, elongated to circular in shape which may reach upto 1 cm or more in length. Leaf sheaths and coleoptiles exhibit similar symptoms. The pathogen infects inflorescence which results in failure of grain development and establishes a major problem during the commercial production of rice. Chemicals are often applied for the management of brown spot disease but their use is known to have negative consequences in environment. They are creating vulnerable conditions for beneficial soil microorganisms. Besides this, they increased plant protection costs which directly affect farmer’s livelihood. Treatments with fungicides are also inconsistent due to the complexity of soil ecology and year–to–year variations in climate conditions.\r\nBiocontrol agents are now gaining popularity among phytopathologists as a new alternative for the control of various plant diseases. Biocontrol agents are safe, long lasting and ecofriendly. The fungal and bacterial antagonists have been shown to promote the growth of various crops (Singh et al., 2012). Biocontrol agents could be less harmful to the environment than synthetic fungicides. Bacillus, Pseudomonas and Trichoderma were the most commonly employed fungal and bacterial biocontrol agents against diverse plant diseases (Nakkeeran et al., 2005; Saravanakumar et al., 2007). Mycoparasitism and antagonism are the two main weapon used by Trichoderma spp. for the control of fungal disease (Singh et al., 2005) Several Trichoderma species have been demonstrated to have antagonistic activity against wide range of pathogens (Dutta and Das, 2002; Das et al., 2006; Dutta et al., 1999; Dutta et al., 2008) Moreover, Trichoderma viride (T. viride) and Trichoderma harzianum (T. harzianum) are two well known widely used Trichoderma species. Biswas et al. (2010) found that application of Trichoderma viride or T. harzianum reduced the disease upto 70%. Bacterial biocontrol agents have been extensively utilized in plant disease management because it poses a range of biological control mechanism against different pathogens. They are associated with secondary metabolites production in agroecosystem and act as a potential antagonist against number of fungal pathogens. Biological control agents such as Pseudomonas fluorescens and Bacillus subtillis are commonly utilised. In previous studies mixture of Pseudomonas fluorescens and Bacillus subtillis are found effective against bacterial blight of cotton caused by Xanthomonas axonopodis pv. Malvacearum (Salaheddin et al., 2010). Talc based formulation of Pseudomonas fluorescens have been reported to suppress Bipolaris oryzae (Joshi et al., 2007). In future, there will be transition of disease management strategies from chemicals to biocontrol agents, necessitating the study of different antagonists as next-generation alternatives. Therefore, the efficiency of two fungal biocontrol agents, Trichoderma viride and Trichoderma harzianum, as well as two bacterial antagonists, Pseudomonas fluorescens and Bacillus subtillis, in suppressing rice brown spot disease was investigated under in vitro condition.\r\nMATERIALS AND METHODS\r\nA. Isolation of pathogen\r\nIsolates of Bipolaris oryzae were collected from diseased rice crops at the Bidhan Chandra Krishi Viswavidyalaya, Nadia, West Bengal. The leaves with typical brown spot symptoms induced by Bipolaris oryzae were cut with a sharp and sterilised blade, placed in paper bags, and brought to the laboratory. The necrotic patches of diseased leave along with some healthy tissue were cut into small pieces inside the laminar air flow and surfaces sterilized by dipping in 1 percent sodium hypochlorite for 20-30 seconds and were washed by sterilized water for three times. The cut pieces were plated in petri plate containing sterilize potato dextrose agar medium (PDA) (Riker and Riker, 1936) and kept in BOD incubator at 25±2°C for 3-4 days so that the fungi get ideal condition for growth. Purified culture were maintained in PDA slants and stored at 4°C. \r\nB. In Vitro evaluation of biocontrol agents against Bipolaris oryzae\r\nEfficacy of local biocontrol agent Trichoderma harzianum, T. viride, Bacillus subtilis and Pseudomonas fluorescens were tested on Potato Dextrose Agar against B. oryzae by dual culture technique. The local strain of biocontrol agents was collected from Department of Plant Pathology, B.C.K.V. Dual culture technique was carried out by picking a 5 mm disc from actively growing mycelium of Bipolaris oryzae with the help of sterilized cork borer and placed at one side of the Petri plate. After this, a 5 mm disc of fungal bioccontrol agents (Trichoderma harzianum or T. viride) was inoculated at opposite side of the previously inoculated test pathogen in the same plate (Dennis and Webster, 1971). Similarly, for bacterial biocontrol agent, Bacillus subtilis and Pseudomonas fluorescens, a 5 mm diameter disc was taken from 7 days old culture of B. oryzae and placed on one end of the Petri dish. Afterwards, bacterial antagonists were streaked with the help of inoculation needle on the opposite side of inoculated B. oryzae. Control plates were also maintained in PDA plates. These plates were incubated at 28 ±1°C temperature for 5 days. Completely Randomized Design (CRD) with three replications was taken to validate the result and the percentage inhibition of pathogen mycelial growth was calculated using the formula below (Vincent, 1927).\r\n \r\n \r\nRESULT AND DISCUSSION\r\nA. In vitro evaluation of fungal bio-control agents against Bipolaris oryzae causing brown spot of rice\r\nTrichoderma are mostly found in rhizosphere of plant. They are excellent candidate of biocontrol agents and effectives against seed and soil borne fungus, root rot, stem rot, wilt, and blight and also to some extent control nematodes. The unique nature of Trichoderma, being non-pathogenic to plants is because of its ability to produce a number of substances that cause localized or systemic resistance responses in plants. They produce antibiotics and cell wall degrading enzyme like chitinases, β-1, 3-Glucanases etc. Trichoderma are known for their ability to parasitize other fungi, a process which is called as mycoparasitism and cause lysis of the pathogens (Majumdar et al., 1996).\r\nIn this study, both Trichoderma species significantly reduced the mycelial growth of the test pathogen, Bipolaris oryzae. Trichoderma viride was found to be the most antagonistic biocontrol agent of all the biocontrol agents used in this study (Table 1). It shows highest inhibition in radial growth of the pathogen (61.95%) followed by T. harzianum (59.78%) (Fig. 1 and 2). This result is in alignment with the earlier experiment conducted by Harish et al., (2008) in which Trichoderma viride (Tv2) was found to be significantly effective in inhibiting the pathogen\'s mycelial growth (62.92%) and spore germination (77.03%), followed by Trichoderma harzianum (Th5) and Trichoderma reesei (Tr3). Similar result was obtained by Manimegalai et al. (2011) which showed an inhibition of 67.9 % with T. viride. Bipolaris oryzae is effectively suppressed (upto 61.72%) by T. viride (Kumar et al., 2016). Another species of Trichoderma, T. harzianum render significant inhibition (48%) against Bipolaris oryzae (Abdel-Fattah et al., 2007). Singh et al. (2021) demonstrated that when T. harzianum was exposed to dual culture bioassays, it inhibited the growth of F. oxysporum (66%). Trichoderma asperellum showed potential in managing a range of fungal diseases and their antagonistic nature aid in enhancing medicinal plant productivity and quality. Trichoderma are opportunistic and avirulent plant symbionts capable of establishing strong colonization with root surfaces (Harman et al., 2004). The plant proteome and metabolism are significantly altered as a result of these root microbe interactions. Further, it was very well studied that Trichoderma developed over the pathogen, causing hyphal coiling, hyphal abnormalities and hyphae lysis (Malathi, 1996). The potential of T. viride on B. oryzae is primarily due to the production of lytic metabolites and through mechanism of mycoparasitism. \r\nB. Evaluation of bacterial bio-control agents against brown spot of rice\r\nBacillus species posses a wide range of antimicrobial activities and they are used as anti-fungal agents (Milner et al., 1995). Bacillus subtilis has a profound antagonistic relationship with B. oryzae (Sarala et al., 2004). The data showed in the Table 2 revealed the antagonistic effect of selected bacterial biocontrol agents against Bipolaris oryzae. Both the pathogens cause reduction in radial growth of the pathogen. The percent inhibition over control ranges from 45.52% and 39.05%. Maximum percent inhibition was observed by Bacillus subtilis (45.522%) followed by Pseudomonas fluorescens (39.05%) (Fig. 2 and 3). In a study it was found that Bacillus amyloliquefaciens (BS5) exerted mycelial growth inhibition (76.66%) against Bipolaris oryzae (Prabhukarthikeyan et al., 2019). Bacillus species (B. subtilis, B. polymyxa, B. brevis, B. licheniformis, B. circulans, B. cereus etc) are active producer of antibiotics (Yilmaza et al., 2006). In previous studies, P. fluorescens was found to be antagonistic to B. oryzae, with the highest percent inhibition (75.22%), followed by S. marcescens (72.78%) and B. subtilis (70.56 %) (Sanjeevkumar et al., 2016). Alagesaboopathi and Selvankumar (2011) showed antagonistic effect of P. fluorescens against a wide range of fungal pathogen including Bipolaris oryzae, Rhizoctonia solani, Fusarium oxysporum, Alternaria brassica, Cochliobolus lunatus, Aspergillus niger and Trichothecium reseum. It was found that seed treatment with Pseudomonas spp. has lessen the disease severity upto 70% or more in brown spot (Joshi et al., 2007; Ludwig et al., 2009). Pseudomonas are potent producer of antibiotics such as 2, 4-DAPG, pyrrolnitrin and phenazine which enables it to work as a strong antagonistic agent.\r\n','Badavath Kishore, Anshu Kumar, Pravesh Shivakoty and Venu Emmadi (2022). Biocontrol activity of Trichoderma viride, Trichoderma harzianum, Bacillus subtilis and Pseudomonas fluorescens (in vitro) against Bipolaris oryzae, causal agent of rice brown spot disease. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 14(1): 1698-1703.'),(4455,'123','Anatomical Characterization of Barleria prionitis Linn. : A\r\nWell-known Medicinal herb','P.Y. Bhogaonkar* and S.K. Lande*','1 DR PRABHA.pdf','',1,'ABSTRACT : Barleria prionitis L. (Acanthaceae) is widely distributed throughout the hotter parts of India. In\r\nAyurveda the leaves and inflorescences are supposed to be diuretic and anti-inflammatory; leaves used to treat\r\nbleeding gums and toothache. In traditional health practices also root, leaf and bark of the plant is widely used\r\nto treat various ailments. Oil extract of the plant is prescribed for arresting graying of hairs. Here an attempt is\r\nmade to characterize the plant anatomically which will help to identify the crude drug if mixed with adulterants.\r\nDetailed morphological and anatomical study was carried out. Primary structure, secondary growth pattern and\r\nvessel elements of root and stem, leaf architecture, trichomes and crystals are studied.','Acanthaceae, Barleria prionitis L., Medicinal plant, Anatomy, Root and Stem structure, Leaf architecture, Trichomes, Crystals.','ABSTRACT : Barleria prionitis L. (Acanthaceae) is widely distributed throughout the hotter parts of India. In\r\nAyurveda the leaves and inflorescences are supposed to be diuretic and anti-inflammatory; leaves used to treat\r\nbleeding gums and toothache. In traditional health practices also root, leaf and bark of the plant is widely used\r\nto treat various ailments. Oil extract of the plant is prescribed for arresting graying of hairs. Here an attempt is\r\nmade to characterize the plant anatomically which will help to identify the crude drug if mixed with adulterants.\r\nDetailed morphological and anatomical study was carried out. Primary structure, secondary growth pattern and\r\nvessel elements of root and stem, leaf architecture, trichomes and crystals are studied.','INTRODUCTION\r\nBarleria prionitis L. commonly called ‘Porcupine flower’\r\nis widely distributed throughout the hotter parts of India.\r\nIn Sanskrit it is known as ‘Karunta’, ‘Kurantaka’ and ‘Pita–\r\nSaireyaka’. The plant is anti–inflammatory and used in ulcers,\r\nitching of leprosy ulcers and the oil extract of the plant is\r\nrecommended to arrest the graying of hairs. Leaves and\r\nyoung inflorescences are diuretic. Leaf juice used in stomach\r\ndisorders, urinary affections, fever and catarrh; leaf juice\r\napplied to lacerated soles of feet in rainy season and also\r\nfor pimples. The plant is especially well known for treating\r\nbleeding gums and toothache. Because of its antidontalgic\r\nproperty it is known as ‘Vajradanti’. Plant ash mixed with\r\nhoney is given in bronchial asthma. Bark powder given in\r\ncough and bark juice in ‘anasarka’ Root paste applied on\r\nboils and glandular swellings (Chopra et al. 1996, Khare\r\n2007). The plant is used in many formulations and\r\npreparations like Rasnadi kvatha, Rasnadi churna, Sahachara\r\nghritha, Sahachara taila and Dantaroganashani churna\r\n(Sharma et al. 2000). Singh et al. (2003) found methanol\r\nextract to be anti–inflammatory. Hepatoprotective activity was\r\ndemonstrated by Singh et al. (2005). Verma et al. (2005) found\r\nmethanolic extract of the plant to produce anti–spermatogenic\r\neffect without affecting the general body metabolism. Anti–\r\ninflammatory and anti–nociceptive properties of flowers were\r\ndemonstrated by Jaiswal et al. (2010). Dheer and Bhatnagar\r\n(2010) found the leaf extract effective in reducing blood\r\nsugar in diabetic animals. Bark extract is effective in\r\ncontrolling candidiasis and other oral fungal infections\r\n(Aneja et al. 2010). Amoo et al (2011) also have studied the\r\nfungistatic and fungicial activity. Irridoides present in the\r\nplant are effective against respiratory syncytial virus (Chen\r\net al. 1998), while Ata et al. (2011) have shown them to be\r\nanti–oxidant. Phenolic content of the plant also exhibits anti–\r\noxidant properties (Chavan et al. 2011).\r\nBiological Forum — An International Journal, 4(1): 1-5(2012)\r\nAdulteration of crude drugs and also the use of\r\nsubstituent plant species in certain cases is a common\r\nfeature. In South India in place of B. prionitis L. roots of\r\nNilgirianthus heyneanus (Nees.) Bremek. are used (Shantha\r\net al.; 1988). B. prionitis L. though is medicinally important\r\nand used in commercial formulations, very little is known\r\nabout its anatomy. To some extent anatomical characters of\r\nroot are known (Sharma et al. 2000). However, no structural\r\ndetails are available about rest of the plant parts.\r\nMATERIAL AND METHODS\r\nPlant material was collected from Amravati Dist.\r\nMaharashtra. Anatomy of root, stem and leaf was studied.\r\nFreshly handcut sections were observed under microscope\r\nand camera lucida sketches were made. Dried pieces of old\r\nroot and stem were selected for maceration and observation\r\nof vessel elements. Thin slices of roots and stems were\r\ntreated with macerating fluid (5% solution of HNO3 + 5%\r\nsolution of K2Cr2O7) for 12 to 24 hours. The macerate was\r\nthen thoroughly washed with water and vessel elements\r\nwere stained with 1% aqueous safranin and mounted in\r\nglycerin. Measurements were made by occular scale lens\r\nand camera lucida sketches drawn. Classification of Radford\r\net al. (1974) is followed for categorizing the vessel elements.\r\nLeaf constants such as stomatal frequency, stomatal index,\r\npalisade to spongy ratio (as seen in t.s.), PR value were\r\ndetermined (Kokate et al. 1998).\r\nRESULTS AND DISCUSSION\r\nShurb, 2 – 5 feet high, much branched, usually prickly.\r\nStem and branches cylindrical, glabrous, whitish. Leaves\r\n6–15cm × 3–6. 5cm long, oblong, acuminate, entire, margin\r\nfinely ciliate, lamina glabrous above, more or less pubescent\r\nbeneath, base tapering into stalk; stalk 1–2cm long, widely\r\nISSN No. (Print) : 0975-1130\r\nISSN No. (Online) : 2249-3239\r\n2 Bhogaonkar and Lande\r\nspreading spines present in axils. Flowers sessile, often\r\nsolitary, axillary or in short terminal spike; bract\r\n1.2–1.5cm long, oblong–lanceolate, acute, glabrous; bracteole\r\n0.7–1cm long linear. Calyx 4, sepals hairy free upto base,\r\nbroader at base; outer pair unequal acuminate, larger 1.5–2\r\ncm, smaller 1–1.2 cm; inner pair unequal, linear–lanceolate.\r\nCorolla 5–5.5 cm long, yellow, slightly pubescent outside,\r\nglabrous inside, some what 2–lipped; lobes oblong–obovate,\r\nobtuse at apex, entire, tube 2–2.5cm long. Stamens 2, perfect;\r\nstaminodes 2; filaments of stamens exerted beyond the\r\ncorolla tube. Style long, filiform, slightly pubescent at base.\r\nCapsule 2–2.5cm long, ovoid, apex acute. Seed rounded, 0.5\r\ncm in dia. with compact silky hairs present on surface as\r\nwell as on margins.\r\nAnatomy\r\nRoot. Stele diarch. Pith absent. Endodermis and\r\npericycle not distinct; cortex narrow. Secondary growth\r\nanomalous. Cambium abnormal; produced in pericyclic\r\nregion outside the stele. As a result patches of primary\r\nphloem alternating the primary xylem get retained. Activity\r\nof cambium anomalous. It produces secondary xylem and\r\ninterxylary patches of secondary phloem to the inner side\r\nand phloem to the outerside. Distinct growth rings seen.\r\nEach growth ring marked by vessels arranged in circular\r\nfashion. Vessels scattered, solitary. Rays uniseriate. Phloem\r\nwith scattered patches of stone cells. Cortical cells\r\nhorizontally stretched. Cork thick, 5–6 layered. Cork cambium\r\nsuperficial. (Fig. 1 & 2) Vessel elements extremely small (Class\r\nA 168 – 175 × 27 – 30 μm), very short (Class B207– 249 ×\r\n27 – 30 μm) and moderately short (Class C 258–315 × 21–27\r\nμm); cylindrical–angular, tailed; tails long or short, present\r\non one end or both ends; few without tails. Perforation\r\nplates horizontal to slightly oblique (Fig. 3).\r\nBhogaonkar and Lande 3\r\n4 Bhogaonkar and Lande\r\nStem. Young stem roughly quadrangular, flat laterally and\r\nconvex dorsiventrally (Fig. 4). Epidermis cutinised and\r\ncuticularised, showing bands of chlorophyllose and non–\r\nchlorophyllose cells; stomata diacytic monocyclic as well as\r\nhemibicyclic present in chlorenchymatous region (Fig. 5).\r\nEpidermis not uniformly single layered; sometimes two\r\nlayered and then cystoliths present in inner epidermal layer\r\n(Fig. 6). Cystoliths paired as well as solitary. Epidermis\r\nfollowed by 4–6 layered collenchymatous hypodermis. Cortex\r\nparenchymatous, 2–3 layers of outer cortex with dense\r\nchloroplasts, cells smaller, compactly placed; chlorenchyma\r\nreaching epidermis interrupting collenchymatous hypodermis\r\nbelow the angles. Inner cortex 6–7 layered, cells\r\ncomparatively smaller, complactly placed, with few\r\nchloroplasts. Endodermis and pericycle not distinct.\r\nVasculature continuous, small patches of internal phloem lie\r\nscattered lining the pith. Pith large, parenchymatous; cells\r\ncontaining bundles of raphides. (Fig. 7).\r\nCambium continuous from the beginning. Secondary\r\ngrowth anamolous. Vessels narrow, solitary, paired as well\r\nas in series. Rays uniseriate. Patches of included phloem\r\nscattered in secondary xylem produced. Cork cambium\r\nsuperficial. Cork not produced uniformly, it forms patches at\r\nplaces. Cells of Collenchymatous hypodermis get radially\r\nstretched with growth. (Fig. 8 & 9).\r\nVessel elements very short (Class B 213–222 × 30 – 33\r\nμm), moderately short (Class C 258–330 × 24 – 30 μm) and\r\nmedium sized (Class D 381 – 800 × 18 – 30 μm); cylindrical–\r\nangular, tailed; tails long or short, present on one end or\r\nboth ends, few without tails. Perforation plates horizontal to\r\nslightly oblique. (Fig. 10).\r\nNode. unilacunar single trace. Trace in the form of\r\nconsiderably shallow arc. At leaf base it divides to produce\r\n3 traces.\r\nLeaf. Stalk semicircular in outline. Epidermis not uniformly\r\ntwo layered at places single layered, cutinised and\r\ncuticularised. Cystoliths present in lower epidermal layer.\r\nHypodermis collenchymatous. Ground tissue\r\nparenchymatous, cells thin–walled with numerous needle\r\nshaped calcium oxalate crystals. Vasculature in the form of\r\nshallow arc with two small lateral bundles. Vessels in\r\nuniseriate tires. Internal phloem in the form of scattered\r\npatches. (Fig. 11 & 12).\r\nLamina amphistomatous. Epidermis single layered; cells\r\ncutinised and cuticularised, slightly sinuous; cells of upper\r\nepidermis more so. Stomata diacytic, some with subsidiary\r\ncells more or less parallel to guard cells (paracytic);\r\nmonocyclic as well as hemibicyclic. Stomata with single\r\nguard cell and aborted guard cells present (Fig. 13 & 14).\r\nCystoliths solitary, paired as well as four together arranged\r\nin crosslike manner. Orientation oblique to horizontal from\r\nmidrib to margin. (Fig. 15).\r\nMesophyll differentiated into palisade and spongy\r\nparenchyma; both densely filled with chloroplasts. Palisade\r\nsingle layered; spongy parenchyma 3–4 layered; cells\r\nirregular. Vein–bundles embeded in mesophyll; bundle sheath\r\nparenchymatous (Fig. 16). Palisade cells shorter towards\r\nmargin; collenchyma filling the margin (Fig. 17).\r\nMidrib\r\nEpidermis single layered, cells cutinised and\r\ncuticularised, cystoliths present. Hypodermis 2 – 3 layered,\r\ncollenchymatous; ground tissue parenchymatous.\r\nVasculature in the form of central shallow ‘C’ shaped arc.\r\nVessels in series separated by polygonal cells; patches of\r\ninternal phloem lie scattered towards protoxylem\r\n(Fig. 18 & 19).\r\nVenation: Brochidodromous in upper half and\r\neucamptodromous in lower half (Fig. 20). Primary vein\r\nmassive, straight, unbranched, Secondary veins moderate,\r\nstraight, unbranched, in 6–8 pairs, diverging at 50° – 60° to\r\nmidrib, angle of divergence more acute in upper than lower;\r\nintersecondary veins composite. Loop forming branches\r\njoining superadjecent at obtuse angle; intramarginal veins\r\npresent. Tertiary veins random, reticulate. Veins of higher\r\norder distinct; quaternary veins at 4° angle, random, highest\r\nvein order showing excurrent branching at 30; marginal\r\nultimate venation looped; veinlets simple, linear as well as\r\nonce branched. Areoles large, irregular, imperfect, random\r\n(Fig. 21 & 22).\r\nLeaf constants:\r\nA. Epidermis\r\nUpper Epidermis Lower Epidermis\r\nEpidermal cells size 67.5 ± 1.564 × 29.1 ± 0.496 × 27 ± 1.643 mm 75.1 ± 1.277 × 31.2 ± 0.642 × 18 ± 1.341 mm\r\nStomata size 38.7 ± 0.388 × 13.0 ± 0.859 mm 34.3 ± 0.315 × 12.5 ± 0.517 mm\r\nStomatal frequency 7.4/mm2 140/mm2\r\nStomatal index 11.11% 34.61 %\r\nCystolith size 85.2 ± 3.157 × 22.3 ± 1.042 mm 90.5 ± 2.813 × 28.6 ± 1.602 mm\r\nBhogaonkar and Lande 5\r\nB. Palisade : Spongy ratio (PS ratio)–1 : 1.1\r\nC. Pallisade : Epidermis ratio (PR ratio) – 1 : 11.8\r\nT r i c h o m e s restricted to grooves on stem and at leaf\r\nbase on upper side, especially when young. Simple as well\r\nas glandular trichomes present. Simple trichomes unicellular\r\nand bicelled. Glands sunken, stalk short, single celled, head\r\n4 – many celled; cell walls very thin. Few glands with long,\r\n3–4 celled stalk and 4–celled head. (Fig. 23–31).\r\nDISCUSSION\r\nIn most of the respects anatomy of Barleria prionitis\r\nL. is in confirmation with general anatomical features of\r\nAcanthaceae. However, many features together characterize\r\nto the herb. These are – 1. Presence of class A, B, C and D\r\ntype of vessel elements in root and stem, 2. patches of\r\nprimary phloem alternating with primary xylem getting\r\nretained in old root, 3. formation of patches of interxylary\r\nphloem in secondary xylem in root as well as in stem, 4.\r\nphloem with patches of stone cells, 5. epidermis not\r\nuniformly single layered; sometimes two layered, then\r\ncystoliths present in inner epidermal layer, 6. rays uniseriate\r\nin root as well as in root and stem, 7. small patches of\r\ninternal phloem lying scattered lining the stem pith, 8.\r\nstomata mostly diacytic, hemibicyclic, sometimes paracytic\r\nstomata present, abnormal stomata with one guard cell and\r\naborted guard cells present, 9. cystoliths and raphides\r\npresent; cystoliths solitary, paired as well as four together\r\nin cross like manner, 10. both simple and glandular trichomes\r\npresent, 11. venetion brochido–eucamptodromous with\r\nmarginal veinlets forming loops. These characters can help\r\nto identity the crude drug material.','P.Y. Bhogaonkar* and S.K. Lande* (2012). Anatomical Characterization of Barleria prionitis Linn. : A Well-known Medicinal herb.Biological Forum — An International Journal, 4(1): 1-5.'),(4456,'112','In vitro Antioxidant and Antibacterial Activity and Phytochemical Screening of Mango Ginger (Curcuma amada Roxb.) in Mizoram','Evarin Debbarma*, Saikhom Herojit Singh and Ngangom N.M.','300 In vitro Antioxidant and Antibacterial Activity and Phytochemical Screening of Mango Ginger Curcuma amada Roxb. in Mizoram Evarin Debbarma.pdf','',1,'Mango ginger (Curcuma amada Roxb.) is a perennial, rhizomatous, fragrant herb, having morphological resemblance with ginger but imparts a raw mango flavour. This plant has been utilised for the treatment of many ailments in traditional medical systems (Ayurveda and Unani) from ancient times. Curcuma amada possesses several pharmaceutical properties such as antimicrobial, anti-inflammatory, analgesic, anticancer, anti-hyperglyceridemic, antioxidant activity etc. Owing to these properties, an experiment was conducted at Mizoram University, Aizawl (2021), to evaluate the phytochemical constituents of Curcuma amada Roxb. (Zingiberaceae). The study revealed the potential antioxidant and radical scavenging activity (IC50 223.2 µg/ml) of C. amada rhizome extracts by DPPH assay, indicating its protective role against oxidative damage and as an important natural antioxidant. The above said pharmaceutical activity may be shown due to the presences of various bioactive compounds (screened using respective scientific methods and protocols) including phenols (11.47±0.004 mg/100 mg), flavonoids (5.05±0.068 mg/100mg), ascorbic acid (5.05± 0.068 mg/100mg), tannins, saponin, glycosides etc. The antibacterial activity, determined by the disc diffusion assay, of C. amada rhizome extract exhibits an inhibition zone of 12±0.2 mm, 11±0.5 mm, 10±0.2 and 8.6±0.7 mm diameter against E. coli, Pseudomonas aeruginosa, Staphylococcus aureus and Bacillus subtilis culture respectively. The diverse array of phytochemicals present in the plant thus suggests its therapeutic potentials which may be explored in drug manufacturing industry as well as in traditional medicine.','Curcuma amada, mango ginger, phytochemical screening, quantitative analysis, antioxidant activity, antibacterial activity','The study revealed the potential antibacterial, antioxidant and radical scavenging activity of extracts of Curcuma amada rhizomes, indicating its protective role against microbial infections, oxidative damage and as an important natural antioxidant. C. amada possesses several pharmaceutical properties such as antimicrobial, anti-inflammatory, analgesic, anticancer, anti-hyperglyceridemic, antioxidant activity etc. The above said pharmaceutical activity may be shown due to the presences of various bioactive compounds including tannins, saponin, flavonoids, phenolics, glycosides etc. It may be stated that the phytochemical examination provided valuable information about the various phytoconstituents found in the plant, which will aid future researchers in selecting the appropriate extract for further exploration of isolating the active principle.','INTRODUCTION\r\nPlants are regarded as living biochemical factories that produce a wide range of chemical molecules known as phytochemicals or secondary metabolites with different biological activities as a result of their metabolic processes (Kaur et al., 2018; Mahadevi & Kavitha, 2020) and these phytochemical constituents occur in different plant parts such as leaf, stem, root, flower, bark etc. (Gordon, 2001). Primary constituents include carbohydrates, amino acids, proteins and chlorophyll, whereas secondary metabolites include alkaloids, terpenoids, steroids, flavonoids, saponins etc. (Dhawale, 2003). About 80% of the world’s population rely on traditional medicine that involves use of plant and herb extracts for their primary healthcare system (Sandhya et al., 2006). Due to their wide availability and fewer side effects, herbal medicines are acceptable for treating a broad range of infection and diseases (Chattopadhyay et al., 2004). Curcuma genus of the Zingiberaceae family consists of about 80 species, of which 40 are indigenous to India. Extensive research has been conducted on Curcuma longa (turmeric) and Zingiber officinale (ginger), but the medicinal properties of Curcuma amada (mango ginger) has yet to be fully explored (Saipriya, et al., 2017). Curcuma amada originated in the Indo-Malayan region and widely distributed in the tropics from Asia to Africa and Australia (Sasikumar, 2005) with a geographical distribution ranging from India, Indo-China, Thailand, Indonesia, Malaysia and northern Australia (Policegoudra et al., 2011). C. amada is found in the wet (semi-evergreen) mixed forests of West Bengal (Mallick, 2019), and is cultivated in the North Eastern states, Gujarat, Uttar Pradesh, Kerala, Karnataka and Tamil Nadu (Policegoudra et al., 2011). C.amada is an aromatic herb known as Amba haldi or Mango ginger. It closely resembles the morphology of ginger; its rhizome gives a characteristic odour of raw mango flavour due to the presence of terpene hydrocarbons cis-ocimene and car-3-ene which makes mango ginger a unique spice (Gholap et al., 1984). It is used as a major ingredient in pickles, candies, salads, sauces and chutneys (Yogamaya et al., 2012). Therapeutically, it is used to treat a range of mood and medical disorders in traditional and Ayurvedic medicine (Policegoudra et al., 2011). Curcuma plants have a camphoraceous aroma and contain many functional compounds such as phenolics, flavonoids and different antioxidant enzymes (Krishnaraj et al., 2010) and various species belonging to this genus are well known for their multiple use as medicine, cosmetic, dye, flavouring agent and nutraceuticals. Likewise, the antioxidant and anti-inflammatory activities of C. amada is due to the presence of phenolic compounds (Mara et al., 2006). The essential oil of rhizome exhibits antimicrobial, antifungal and anthelmintic activity against tape worms and such pharmaceutical properties may be shown due to the presences of various bioactive compounds including curcumin, demethoxycurcumin, bisdemethoxycurcumin, phenol and terpenoids (Policegoudra et al., 2011). Curcuma amada rhizomes are exported from India as medicinal plant parts (Hasan et al., 2009). Few considerable studies have been conducted on C. amada regarding its phytochemicals as well as further screening of the found constituents. Although there has been some documentation on the traditional uses and its benefits yet the indigenous knowledge on the various aspects of usage has been passed down from generation to generation orally. There is a need for the proper documentation and elaborate study on this plant species. Huge potential is observed in future studies and research which can be carried out with respect to the fields of medicine, pharmaceutical, pharmacology, oil industries, food industries, perfumery etc. which in the long run will not only elevate better treatment options for ailments but also give an immaculate area for economic growth of the local people with proper cultivation practices and better marketing approaches. Therefore, this study aims at understanding and analysing the primary photochemical constituents of C. amada.\r\nMATERIAL AND METHODS\r\nCollection of plant material: C. amada rhizomes were collected from Amtali village, Takarjala, West Tripura during March, 2021. The rhizome samples were thoroughly cleaned under tap water. Fresh rhizomes of C. amada were used for further experiments.\r\nPhytochemical screening: Standard phytochemical screening protocols were used to detect the presence of bioactive agents. These tests were identified by visual inspection of colour changes or precipitate formation after the addition of particular reagents to the solution.\r\nTest for Tannin (Braymer’s Test): 2 ml of extract was mixed with few drops of 5% FeCl2 solution and blue colour was observed to indicate the presence of tannins.\r\nTest for Saponin (Foam Test): 2 ml of extract was mixed with 5 ml of distilled water in a test tube and shaken vigorously. Formation of stable foam was observed to indicate the presence of saponin.\r\nTest for Flavonoid (NaOH Test): 2 ml of extract was added into 2 ml of 10% NaOH solution. Yellow to orange colour was observed to indicate the presence of flavonoids.\r\nTest for Protein (Xanthoproteic Test): 2 ml of extract was added into 2 ml of HNO3 and boiled in water bath. Orange colour was observed to indicate the presence of protein.\r\nTest for Carbohydrate (Benedict’s Test): 2 ml of extract was mixed with 2 ml of Benedict’s reagent and boiled in water bath. Yellow, green or red precipitate was observed to indicate the presence of carbohydrate.\r\nTest for Glycosides (Keller-Kiliani Test): 2 ml of extract was mixed with 2 ml of glacial acetic acid containing 2 drops of 2 % FeCl2 solution. The mixture was poured into another test tube containing 2 ml of concentrated H2SO4. Brown ring at the interface was observed to indicate the presence of cardiac glycosides.\r\nQuantitative analysis: Determination of Flavonoid content: To determine the total flavonoid content, AlCl2 method was used. 1g of fresh sample was weighed and crushed by mortar and pestle. 0.3 ml of NaNO2 and 4 ml of H2O was added and kept for 5 minutes. After 5 minutes, 0.3 ml of 10% AlCl3 was added and left for 6 minutes. At 6 minutes, 2 ml of 1M NaOH was added and volume was made up to 10 ml with distilled water. The absorbance was recorded at 510 nm using a digital spectrophotometer.\r\nDetermination of Carbohydrate content: Total carbohydrate was determined by using Anthrone reagent and HCL following the Anthrone method and absorbance was measured using a digital spectrophotometer at 630 nm.\r\nDetermination of antioxidant content: Total antioxidant was determined using DPPH (2,2-diphenyl-1-picrylhydrazyl) and methanol following DPPH assay and absorbance was measured using a digital spectrophotometer at 517 nm. The free radical scavenging activity (percentage antiradical activity) was calculated by the equation \r\n \r\n \r\n \r\nDetermination of Phenol Content: The total phenolic content was determined according to Folin-Ciocalteu method (FCM) described by Siddhuraju and Becker, 2003 using catechol as a standard. Different aliquots (0.5 & 1 ml) are taken in test tubes diluted in 3 ml of water and 0.5 ml of Folin-Ciocalteu reagent is added. After 3 minutes, 2 ml of 20% Na2CO3 is added in each tube and mixed the content thoroughly. Colour was developed and absorbance was measured at 650 nm using digital spectrophotometer against blank reagent. Standard graph was prepared using different concentrations of catechol. \r\nDetermination of Protein content: The total protein content was determined by Folin Lowry Method using bovine serum albumin as standard. The absorbance was measured at 660 nm using a digital spectrophotometer.\r\nDetermination of Ascorbic acid: The total ascorbic acid content was determined by Volumetric method using reagent 2,6-dichlorophenolindophenol and the result is expressed in mg/100 ml sample.\r\nDetermination of Anthocyanin content: Anthocyanin was estimated by taking a gram of sample and adding 50-60 ml of Methanolic HCl (85:15v/v). The produced extract was stored for a day under airtight condition and then diluted to 100 ml with Methanolic HCl. The colour density was measured using a digital spectrophotometer at 445 nm. \r\nAntibacterial studies: Evaluation of antibacterial activity of C. amada rhizome extract was carried out by disc diffusion assay described by Lennette, 1985. The rhizome extracts were diluted with Dimethyl sulphoxide (DMSO) and aliquots were loaded on a disc and the antibacterial activity was evaluated against five standard bacterial strains which included the Gram positive Staphylococcus aureus (MTCC-96) and Bacillus subtilis (MTCC-441) and Gram negative Pseudomonas aeruginosa (ATCC-15442), Bacillus Pumilus (ATCC-14884) & E. coli. The bacterial strains were inoculated on freshly prepared agar plates with a loop, evenly spread by a spreader and incubated overnight at 37°C. The diameter of zone of inhibition produced by the inoculums were measured in mm.\r\nRESULT AND DISCUSSION\r\nPhytochemical analysis revealed the presence of tannin, saponin, glycoside, protein, carbohydrate and flavonoid. Saponin is a natural antioxidant which also promotes tumour cell death (Podolak et al., 2010; Tapondjou et al., 2011; Bi et al., 2012). Saponins have anti-hypercholesterolemic activities as well as antibacterial characteristics. Tannin has been employed as an active ingredient in medicine and beverages due to its antioxidant properties (Amarowicz and Troszynska, 2003; Amarowicz et al., 2005). Tannins have been shown to prevent the growth of harmful fungus. Strong lipid peroxidation inhibitors have been found in glycosides such as quercetin monoglycosides, diglycosides and flavonol glycosides (Plumb et al., 1999). Physiochemical parameters of the rhizome of Curcuma amada Roxb. are tabulated in Table 1.\r\nAntioxidant activity: Plants having antioxidant and radical scavenging properties are valuable in medical applications and pharmaceutical industries. The antioxidant capacity of C. amada was assessed in this work using the DPPH radical scavenging method and compared to the activity of ascorbic acid, a well known antioxidant (Fig. 1). The different concentrations of 50, 100, 150, 200, 250 and 300 µg/ml showed different levels of radical scavenging activity of 17.7, 26.0, 29.1, 38.5, 53.1 and 73.9 % of inhibition respectively with an IC50 value of 223.2 µg/ml while ascorbic acid content has an IC50 value of 107.5µg/ml.\r\nTotal flavonoid content: The extracts\' total flavonoid content was calculated as a percentage of quercetin equivalents per 100 mg of the sample (Fig. 2). The total flavonoid estimation of rhizomes of C. amada showed the content value of 5.05± 0.068 mg/100mg. \r\nTotal phenol content: The total phenol estimation of C. amada rhizomes showed the content value of 11.47±0.004 mg/100 mg (Fig. 3).\r\nTotal protein content: The total protein content of the rhizomes of C. amada showed the content value of 12.47 ± 0.03 mg/g (Fig. 4).\r\nTotal carbohydrate content: The total carbohydrate content of C. amada rhizomes showed the value of 14.55 ± 0.06 mg/100mg (Fig. 5).\r\nTotal anthocyanin content: The total anthocyanin content of C. amada rhizome showed a value of 5.29 ±0.001 mg/100g.\r\nTotal ascorbic acid content: The total ascorbic acid content of rhizome of C. amada showed a content value of 5.05± 0.068 mg/100mg.\r\nAntibacterial activity: The antibacterial activity of the extracts varied depending on the extract concentration and was measured in terms of diameter, is shown in Table 2. The maximum inhibition zone observed was 12 mm against bacteria Escherichia coli followed by 11 mm and 10 mm against Pseudomonas aeruginosa and Staphylococcus aureus respectively and the minimum inhibition observed was 8.6 mm against Bacillus subtilis.\r\nSpices are economically significant and high in phenolic chemicals and flavonoids, which are easily absorbed by our body and does not cause harm (Chandarana et al., 2005). In the present study we have observed that Curcuma amada extract contains carbohydrate, flavonoid, phenol, tannin, anthocyanin and glycoside compounds, all of which are known to have therapeutic effects against disease causing microorganisms. The findings suggest that the rhizome of Curcuma amada holds promise as a potent source of pharmaceutically important compounds. The most major classes of secondary metabolites and bioactive substances found in plants are flavonoids and phenolic compounds (Surapaneni and Vishnu 2009). Flavonoids found in the non-aerial portions of plants, such as rhizome, plays an important function in metabolism and development in living systems. Phenolic compounds are a type of antioxidant agents that operate as free radical terminators. Their bioactivities may be connected to their ability to chelate metals, inhibit lipoxygenase and scavenge free radicals (Roya & Fatemeh, 2013). The study has revealed the total phenolic and flavonoid content of 11.47 and 5.05 mg/100 mg respectively which gives them their antioxidant properties. Earlier reports have shown that some flavonoids, such as quercetin are anticarcinogenic and can stop cancer cells from growing (Elattar & Virji, 2000; Ranellett et al., 1999).\r\n','Evarin Debbarma, Saikhom Herojit Singh and Ngangom N.M. (2022). In vitro Antioxidant and Antibacterial Activity and Phytochemical Screening of Mango Ginger (Curcuma amada Roxb.) in Mizoram. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 14(1): 1704-1709.'),(4457,'123','New Records of Scarabaeid Beetles (Coleoptera: Scarabaeidae)\r\nfrom Melghat Tiger Reserve, Maharashtra, India','Vaibhao G. Thakare*, Varsha S. Zade* and Kailash Chandra**','2 VABHAVE THAKRE.pdf','',1,'A study was conducted during 2009-10 in the protected area of the Melghat Tiger Reserve (MTR),\r\nMaharashtra. Twelve species under four subfamilies of family Scarabaeidae were reported for the first time from\r\nMelghat Tiger Reserve. Further study may increase the number of species of these beetles from Tiger Reserve.','New records, Scarabaeid beetles, Melghat Tiger Reserve, Vidarbha, Maharashtra.','A study was conducted during 2009-10 in the protected area of the Melghat Tiger Reserve (MTR),\r\nMaharashtra. Twelve species under four subfamilies of family Scarabaeidae were reported for the first time from\r\nMelghat Tiger Reserve. Further study may increase the number of species of these beetles from Tiger Reserve.','INTRODUCTION\r\nThe family Scarabaeidae is the largest family of insects\r\nwhich contains more than 30000 species in the world (Fincher\r\net al., 1981). The scarab beetles of the order Coleoptera\r\ninclude both useful as well as harmful insects. The\r\ncoprophagus beetles generally known as dung beetles play\r\nan important role in nature\'s sanitation by feeding on the\r\ndung and phytophagus beetles commonly known as chafers\r\nare pest of agricultural crops, plantation and forests\r\n(Chandra, 2000). Dung beetles are taxonomically as well as\r\nfunctionally very important component of terrestrial\r\necosystem (Kakkar and Gupta, 2009). They are nature\'s\r\nscavengers, burying quantities of dung into the ground and\r\nthus cleaning up the earth surface of excreta left mostly by\r\nISSN No. (Print) : 0975-1130\r\nISSN No. (Online) : 2249-3239\r\nBiological Forum — An International Journal, 4(1): 6-10(2012)\r\nlarge and medium sized herbivorous mammals (Hingston,\r\n1923). These insects are important for the dynamics of matter\r\nin ecosystem because they remove detritus of the soil\r\nsurface (Haffter and Matthews, 1966). Dung beetles in\r\ndifferent habitats have different structures (Davis and\r\nSutton, 1998). Some dung beetles are generalists and are\r\nable to use manure of very specific animals. Hanski and\r\nCambefort (1991) reported that mammal diversity, hence,\r\ninfluences diversity of dung beetles. Therefore, dung beetles\r\ncan be used to assess animal biodiversity in agroecosystems.\r\nThe first comprehensive account of scarabaeid\r\nbeetles of the Indian region was published by Arrow (1910,\r\n1917 & 1931) in three volumes of \"Fauna of British India\",\r\nwhere in 58 species were reported from Central India.\r\nMAP OF STUDY AREA\r\nThakare, Zade and Chandra 7\r\nSTUDY AREA\r\nA study was conducted during 2009-2010 in the\r\nprotected area of the Melghat Tiger Reserve (MTR),\r\nVidarbha region, Maharashtra. The geographical coordinates\r\nof the study area are 21°29. 96’N, 077°12.338’ E. Melghat\r\nTiger Reserve is located at southern off shoot of Satpuda\r\nhill range in Central India also called as Gawilgarh hill range\r\nin Maharashtra. The forest area of MTR is tropical and dry\r\ndeciduous in nature dominated with teak trees (Tectona\r\ngrandis).\r\nRESULTS\r\nTwelve species of family Scarabaeidae were recorded\r\nfrom the Melghat Tiger Reserve. Heliocopris bucephalus\r\nFabricius, Catharsius sagax Quens., Catharsius molossus\r\nLinnaeus, Copris imitans Felsche, Copris sinicus Hope,\r\nOnitis philemon Fabricius, Onitis subopacus Arrow, Onitis\r\nlama Lansberge and Oniticellus spinipes Roth belonging\r\nto subfamily Scarabaeinae; Oxycetonia versicolor Fabricius\r\n(Subfamily Cetoniinae), Anomala bengalensis Blanchard,\r\n(Subfamily: Rutelinae) and Phyllognathus dionysius Fabricius\r\n(Subfamily: Dynastinae) were reported for the first time from\r\nMelghat Tiger Reserve, Maharashtra.\r\nSubfamily : Scarabaeinae\r\nHeliocopris bucephalus Fabricius\r\n1775. Scarabaeus bucephalus Fabricius, Syst. Ent., 24.\r\n1931. Heliocopris bucephalus Arrow, Faun. Brit. India,\r\n(Lamellicornia:Coprinae) 3: 88.\r\nMaterial examined : MTR, Kolkas, Forest Rest House,\r\n03. × .2010 (2ex.); GPS- 21°29.897\'N, 077°15.560. E\r\nDiagnosis: Length, 39-55 mm, breadth, 24-30 mm. Body\r\ncolor black, with the elytra and lower surface usually deep\r\nred, parts of the lower surface and legs clothed with coarse\r\nrust-red hair. Broad and somewhat quadrate in shape, with\r\nthe head and pronotum coarsely rugose, and the elytra very\r\nsmooth and shining. The head is rather small, the clypeus\r\nmoderately finely and the vertex more coarsely, transversely\r\nstrigose, the front margin feebly excised in the middle and\r\nthe lateral margins somewhat serrate behind. The pronotum\r\nis very unevenly rugose or reticulate, with a slight\r\ndepressed area in the middle of the basal part, and the front\r\nangles rather smooth. The sides are strongly rounded, the\r\nfront angles are not very blunt, and the hind angles are\r\nfeebly indicated.\r\nCatharsius sagax Queensland\r\n1806. Copris sagax Queensland, Schonh. Syn. Ins., I:\r\n43.\r\n1931. Catharsius sagax: Arrow, Faun. Brit. India\r\n(Lamellicornia: Coprinae) 3: 96.\r\nMaterial examined : MTR, Jarida, 06. vii.2009 (2ex.);\r\nGPS- 21°39.987\'N, 077°29.252\' E ; Alt. 660m\r\nDiagnosis: Length, 23-36 mm, breadth, 14-20 mm. Closely\r\nsimilar to Catharsius molossus L., but of rather smaller\r\naverage size, with the elytra generally a little less dull and\r\nsooty, and the head without the smooth shining area\r\nadjoining the eye on each side. Males are rather narrower\r\nin shape, with the cephalic horn less erect and situated\r\nfarther forward upon the head, and the upper margin of the\r\nthoracic declivity straighter, its lateral angles sharp but not\r\nat all produced. The conjunction of several distinctive\r\nfeatures seems to indicate that this is specifically different\r\nfrom Catharsius molossus, although; only one character\r\nwhich can be relied upon to distinguish the females, viz.,\r\nthe absence in Catharsius sagax of a smooth area adjoining\r\nthe eye, but the metasternum appears to be usually less\r\nstrongly grooved in this sex.\r\nCatharsius molossus Linnaeus\r\n1758. Scarabaeus molossus Linnaeus, Syst. Nat. ed. 10:\r\n347.\r\n1931. Catharsis molossus Arrow, Faun. Brit. India,\r\n(Lamellicornia: Coprinae) 3: 95-96.\r\nMaterial examined : MTR, Kolkas, 15. v. 2009 (1ex.);\r\nGPS- 21°30.107\'N,077°12.578\' E.\r\nDiagnosis : Length, 23-37 mm, breadth, 14-22 mm. Black\r\nand opaque, partially clothed with reddish hair beneath.\r\nBroadly oval and very convex. The head is broad, the\r\nclypeus closely transversely rugulose, the ocular lobes\r\ndensely and coarsely granular, and a small, smooth, shining\r\narea adjoining the inner margin of each eye. The pronotum\r\nis densely covered with fine round granules, except\r\nsometimes upon a small shining area upon each side in the\r\nmale. The sides are rounded, the front angles broadly\r\ntruncate, the hind angles almost obsolete, and the lateral\r\nscars large and deep. The elytra are very finely and lightly\r\nstriate, with the intervals flat and microscopically coriaceous.\r\nThe pygidium is finely punctured in the middle and finely\r\ngranular at the sides. The metasternal shield is acutely\r\nangular in front, longitudinally grooved in its hinder part,\r\nfinely and rather sparsely punctured, rather smooth and\r\nshining, and thinly clothed with erect hairs in front and at\r\nthe sides, and the sides of the metasternum are very densely\r\nclothed. The front tibia bears three external teeth, the middle\r\nand hind tibiae are broad and crenate at the hind margin,\r\nand the terminal spur of the hind tibia is truncate at the\r\nextremity.\r\nCopris imitans Felsche\r\n1910. Copris imitans Felsche, Deutsche Ent. Zeits., 347.\r\n1931. Copris imitans: Arrow, Faun. Brit. India,\r\n(Lamellicornia: Coprinae) 3: 124.\r\n8 Thakare, Zade and Chandra\r\nMaterial examined: MTR, Tarubanda (Compt. no. 762),\r\n12. x. 2010 (1ex.); GPS- N 21° 24\' 546 E 077° 482 33\';\r\nAlt-505 m.\r\nDiagnosis : Length, 13-15 mm, breadth, 7-8 mm. Black\r\nand shining, with the antennae, mouth-organs, and the\r\nbristles clothing the legs, reddish. Broadly oval and convex.\r\nThe head is very smooth and shining, with a few punctures\r\nupon the vertex and ocular lobes. The clypeal margin is\r\nreflexed, a little emarginate in front, and produced upwards\r\nin the middle of the emargination as a short erect process.\r\nAnother similar process, inclined a little backwards, arises\r\nbehind the first and a little in front of the eyes. The\r\npronotum is rather finely and evenly and fairly closely, but\r\nnot densely, punctured, and has a conspicuous marginal\r\nmembrane in the anterior emargination and a row of large,\r\noval, annular impressions at the base. The elytra are deeply\r\nstriate, the striae finely and closely and not conspicuously\r\npunctured, the intervals convex, with minute, rather scattered\r\npunctures. Each elytron has a small vertical flattening near\r\nthe extremity. The pygidium is strongly punctured. The\r\nmetasternal shield is very smooth and shining, with fine\r\nscattered punctures in the anterior part, and the sides of\r\nthe metasternum are fairly strongly and not closely\r\npunctured.\r\nCopris sinicus Hope\r\n1842. Copris sinicus Hope,* Proc. Ent. Soc. Lond. p.60.\r\n1911. Copris sinicus Gill., Ann. Soc. Ent. Belg. Iv, p.314.\r\nMaterial examined : MTR, Tarubanda (Compt. no.762),\r\n12. X.2010 (2ex.); GPS- N 210 28\' 198\' E 0770 10 281\'; Alt-\r\n505m.\r\nDiagnosis : Length, 14-21 mm, breadth, 8-11 mm. Black\r\nand shining, with the antennae, mouth-organs, and the\r\nbristles upon the legs red. Oval and highly convex. The\r\nhead is nearly semicircular, with the clypeus rugulose, the\r\nocular lobes strongly punctured, and the vertex between\r\nthe eyes lightly punctured, the clypeus deeply notched in\r\nthe middle, with a slight lobe on each side of the notch.\r\nThe pronotum is very shining, with a strong longitudinal\r\ngroove along the middle. The elytra are fairly deeply striate,\r\nwith the striae finely and closely punctured, the intervals\r\nalmost flat and scarcely perceptibly punctured. The pygidium\r\nis not very strongly nor very closely punctured. The front\r\ntibia is broad and armed with four external teeth, the front\r\nfemur is closely punctured, and the four posterior femora\r\nfairly closely upon the outer half. The front tibial spur is\r\nstrongly hooked at the end. In male the head bears a slender\r\ncompressed horn, with a minute tooth behind on each side\r\nat a short distance from the base.\r\nOnitis philemon Fabricius\r\n1801. Onitis philemon Fabricius, Syst. Eleut., I: 30.\r\n1931.Onitis philemon. Arrow, Faun. Brit. India,\r\n(Lamellicornia: Coprinae) 3: 393.\r\nMaterial examined : MTR., Semadoh, 02. vii. 2010\r\n(3ex.);GPS- N 21° 30.119\' E 077° 19 .012\' Alt.- 1731 ft.\r\nDiagnosis : Length, 14-19 mm, breadth, 8-11 mm. Greencoppery\r\nor bronzy-black, moderately shining. Oval, neither\r\nvery elongate nor very convex. Head rugulose, with the\r\nocular lobes rather smooth, the clypeus parabolic, with an\r\nextremely feeble emargination of the front edge in the middle,\r\nand separated from the forehead by an interrupted curved\r\ncarina, with a short transverse carina just before it and a\r\nconical tubercle just behind it. Pronotum fairly strongly and\r\nclosely but unevenly punctured, without well-marked median\r\nline; lateral margin straight in front, strongly rounded in the\r\nmiddle, and gently sinuate behind, with the front angles\r\nrectangular and the hind angles obsolete, the base obtusely\r\nangulate in middle. The elytra moderately strongly striate\r\nand intervals very finely and sparsely punctured. The 1st,\r\n3rd, and 5th intervals a little narrower and usually a little\r\nmore elevated than the 2nd and 4th. Pygidium very feebly\r\nand sparsely punctured. In male; the clypeus granulate. Fore\r\nlegs elongate, the tibia slender, strongly curved in front,\r\narmed with four feeble teeth externally, finely serrate internally\r\nin the basal.\r\nOnitis subopacus Arrow\r\n1875. Onitis virens Lansb., Ann. Soc. Ent. Belg. Xvii, p.\r\n133.\r\nMaterial examined : MTR, Semadoh (Forest Rest\r\nHouse), 07. vii. 2009 (1ex.); GPS- N 21° 29.875\' E 077° 18\r\n.881\' ; Alt.- 1679 ft.\r\nDiagnosis : Length, 16-21 mm, breadth, 9-12 mm. Black\r\nor pitchy- black, with a slight metallic lustre, the head and\r\nprothorax moderately shining and the elytra rather dull. Oval,\r\nrather narrow, smooth, and moderately convex. The clypeus\r\nis elliptical, with its margin entire and closely and finely\r\ntransversely rugulose, separated from the vertex, which is\r\ngranulate and more shining, by a broadly interrupted carina.\r\nThere is a short transverse clypeal carina in front of the\r\ninterrupted carina and a conical tubercle behind it. The\r\npronotum is rather closely but not very strongly punctured,\r\nusually with an incomplete smooth median longitudinal line,\r\nthe basal margin with a deep pit on each side of the middle.\r\nThe elytra are finely striate and the 1st, 3rd and 5th intervals\r\nare usually slightly convex. The pygidium is opaque and\r\nscarcely or not at all punctured. The metasternal shield is\r\nsmooth and shining behind, and its front angles, as well as\r\nthe sides of the metaeternum are closely clothed with\r\nreddish hair.\r\nOnitis lama Lansberge\r\n1875. Onitis lama Lansb. Ann. Soc. Ent. Belg. Xviii,\r\np.123\r\nThakare, Zade and Chandra 9\r\nMaterial examined : MTR, Kolkas, 07. vii. 2009 (1ex.),\r\nGPS- 21°31\'.107\'N, 077°12.588\'; Alt. 1447 ft.\r\nDiagnosis : Length, 19-24mm; breadth, 11-13 mm. Black\r\nand shining with the legs and lower surface clothed with\r\nreddish hair. Rather narrowly oval and very convex. The\r\nhead bears an entire strongly elevated and slightly arcuate\r\nfrontal carina upon the clypeus, and a trisinuate carina upon\r\nthe vertex extending from eye to eye. The pronotum is\r\ndistinctly and moderately closely punctured in front and\r\nextremely, minutely behind. The elytra are very smooth, with\r\nfine striae, the sutural interval bearing a few punctures and\r\nthe posterior edge bearing a short fringe of yellow hairs.\r\nThe pygidium is opaque and smooth with very minute\r\nscanty punctures.\r\nOniticellus spinipes Roth\r\n1851. Oniticellus spinipes Roth., Arch. F. Nat., xvii, i:128.\r\n1931. Oniticellus spinipes: Arrow, Faun. Brit. India,\r\n(Lamellicornia: Coprinae) 3: 378.\r\nMaterial examined : MTR, Belkund (Comp. no. 813),\r\n15. X. 2010 (1ex.); GPS- N 21° 23.111\' E 077° 06. 935\' ; Alt.-\r\n619m\r\nDiagnosis : Length, 5.5-7.5 mm; breadth, 3-4 mm.\r\nOpaque dark brown, with the legs and the middle of the\r\nmetasternum shining, the head slightly coppery, the\r\npronotum sometimes very feebly metallic, its margins and\r\nparts of the elytra vaguely reddish. Elongate-oval, very flat\r\nabove. The head is without carinae or elevation,, slightly\r\nshining in front and rugose behind, with rather deep and\r\nmoderately large punctures sparsely scattered in front and\r\nmore closely behind. The clypeus is feebly emarginate in\r\nthe middle. The pronotum is densely and subrugosely\r\npunctured, with an impressed longitudinal line upon the basal\r\nhalf, rather deep behind. The sides are strongly rounded\r\nconsiderably before the middle, nearly straight from the\r\nmiddle, the front angles blunt, the hind angles obsolete and\r\nthe base gently rounded. The elytra are finely striate, the\r\nintervals flat and minutely granulate. The pygidium is thinly\r\nsetose and a little hollowed at the apex and on each side of\r\nthe base. The metasternum is opaque and the shield is\r\nshining, punctured at the sides, and smooth in the middle,\r\nwith a depression behind.\r\nSubfamily : Cetoniinae\r\nOxycetonia versicolor Fabricius\r\n1775. Cetonia versicolar Fabricius, Syst. Ent.,: 51.\r\n1910. Oxycetonia versicolar: Arrow, Faun. Brit. India,\r\n(Lamellicornia: Cetoniinae), I: 164.\r\nMaterial examined : MTR, Belkund (Comp. no. 868),\r\n14. X. 2010 (2ex.); GPS- N 21° 23.034\' E 077° 06 871\'; Alt.-\r\n512 m.\r\nDiagnosis : Length, 13-15 mm; breadth, 6-8 mm. The\r\nform is oval and convex and the upper surface devoid of\r\nhairs and setae. The head is long and rugosely punctured\r\nand the clypeus very sharply bidentate. The pronotum is\r\nstrongly and not densely punctured, with the sides angulated\r\nin the mioddle. The scutellum is triangular and moderately\r\nsharp at the apex. The elytra are strongly punctuate-striate\r\nwith the sides strongly sinuated behind the shoulders and\r\nthe apical angles short but not produced. The pygidium is\r\ncoarsely punctured and setose the metasternum rugose and\r\nhairy and the abdomen sparingly but coarsely punctured.\r\nSubfamily : Rutelinae\r\nAnomala bengalensis Blanchard\r\n1851. Anomala bengalensis, Blanch. Cat. Coll. Ent. Mus.\r\nParis, P. 182\r\nMaterial examined : MTR, Raipur, 02. vii. 2009 (1ex.),\r\nGPS- N 21° 33.913\' E 077° 17.573\' ; Alt.- 691m.\r\nDiagnosis : Length, 19-23 mm; breadth, 10-11 mm. Pale\r\ntestaceous yellow with the head, the extreme edge of the\r\npronotum, scutellum and elytra, the hind tibae and all the\r\ntarsi dark. The shape is moderately elongate and rather\r\nscantily clothed with the hair beneath. The head is rather\r\nfinely punctuate-rugose with the clypeus broadly and\r\ntranseversely rectangular, its front margin strongly reflexed\r\nand almost straight. The pronotum is very minutely\r\npunctured with the sides strongly rounded, The elytra are\r\nmoderately, closely and deeply punctured; some of the\r\npunctures forming longitudinal rows. The pygidium is\r\nstrongly punctured at the sides and apex and minutely\r\ncoriaceous in the middle of the basal part.\r\nSubfamily : Dynastinae\r\nPhyllognathus dionysius Fabricius\r\n1792. Scarabaeus dionysius Fabricius, Ent. Syst. I, p.20.\r\n1910. Oryctes dionysius, Arrow, Fauna Brit. Ind. Lamell.\r\nI, p.307.\r\n1969. Oryctes dionysius, Endrodi, Ent. Arb. Mus. Frey,\r\n20, p.451.\r\nMaterial examined : MTR, Raipur, 02.vii.2009 (1ex.); GPSN\r\n21° 33.647\' E 077° 17.807\'; Alt.-688m.\r\nDiagnosis : Length, 16 -23 mm; breadth, 9-13mm; Body\r\ncompact and globose; chestnut-red, shining above and\r\nclothed with tawny hairs beneath. Head densely and rather\r\nrugosely punctate. Pronotum strongly and finely punctate,\r\nrugosely in front; elytra strongly and moderately closely\r\npunctate with annular puncture, some arranged in\r\nlongitudinal rows. In male, cephalic horn broad, strongly\r\ninclined backwards, triangular at extremity with apex acute;\r\npronotum deeply excavated from front to almost hind margin,\r\nwith sides slightly curved outwards and prominent anteriorly\r\nin middle.','Vaibhao G. Thakare*, Varsha S. Zade* and Kailash Chandra** (2012). New Records of Scarabaeid Beetles (Coleoptera: Scarabaeidae) from Melghat Tiger Reserve, Maharashtra, India. Biological Forum — An International Journal, 4(1): 6-10.'),(4458,'123','Method Validation and Quantitative Determination of Antiviral Drug\r\nAcyclovir in Human Plasma by a LCMS/MS','Ganesh Holkar*, Vinayak Daphal*, Ravi Yadav* and M. D. Rokade*','3 GANESH.pdf','',1,'A simple, sensitive and selective LCMS/MS method has been developed for the determination of\r\nacyclovir in human plasma. Since acyclovir is a polar compound and soluble in aqueous medium and practically\r\ninsoluble in most of organic solvents its analysis in biological fluids in currently published HPLC methods,\r\ninvolve pre-treatment of acyclovir plasma sample including deproteinization or solid phase extraction, Acyclovir\r\nin plasma were concentrated by solid phase extraction and chromatographed on a C18 column using a mobile\r\nphase of 0.1% formic acid : methanol (30 : 70% v/v). The method was validated over a linear range of 20 - 1000\r\nng mL–1 for acyclovir. The LOQs were 60.0 and 900 ng mL–1. The validated method was applied for the quantitation\r\nof acyclovir from plasma samples in a pharmacokinetic study.','Acyclovir; LCMS/MS; Plasma; solid phase extraction','The proposed HPLC-MS/MS method can be regarded\r\nas selective, accurate, precise, and valid for determination\r\nof acyclovir with a total running time of 2.0 min. Through\r\nthis method it was possible to evaluate, acyclovir\r\nquantification in human plasma and offers advantages over\r\nmethods previously reported. The present method is more\r\nsensitive, while the analytical run is shorter, permitting a\r\nhigh throughput','INTRODUCTION\r\nAcyclovir {9-[(2-hydroxyethoxy) methyl] guanine,\r\nzovirax} is a guanosine analogue with an acyclic side chain\r\nat the cella zoster viruses. As acyclovir is structurally similar\r\nto endogenous substances, its analysis in human serum is\r\ncomplicated and requires high selective analytical methods.\r\nImmunological techniques and HPLC are the most common\r\nused methods for determination of acyclovir in biological\r\nsamples. Acyclovir is a nucleoside analog with antiviral\r\nactivity against herpes viruses. This drug is an effective\r\nagent in the treatment of herpes virus infections and may\r\nalso used in the prophylaxis of cytomegalovirus infections\r\nin immune compromised patients. Some HPLC methods for\r\nthe analysis of acyclovir in plasma, serum or urine has been\r\npublished [2-5]. However, these analytical methods require\r\nthe use of an ion-pairing agent [6], column thermostating\r\nand fluorimetric detection [7] or are limited by the lack of\r\nsensitivity.\r\nSeveral HPLC methods [8-9] have been published for\r\ndetermination of acyclovir in human serum using UV or\r\nfluorescence detection. Since acyclovir is a polar compound\r\nand soluble in aqueous medium and practically insoluble in\r\nmost of organic solvents, protein precipitation with perchloric\r\nacid [10-11] or solid phase extraction [12] are applied for\r\npre-treatment of the drug in serum samples. While the\r\nsensitivity of analysis is significantly reduced due to dilution\r\nof the samples after deproteinization, injection of the acid\r\nsupernatant after precipitation of proteins by perchloric acid\r\nleads to numerous late eluting peaks and significant\r\nreduction of the lifetime of analytical column. Time\r\nconsuming gradient elution is needed for removing of the\r\nlate-eluting peaks, and deterioration of column performance\r\nsignificantly reduces the number of samples which can be\r\nanalyzed. Solid phase extraction is expensive and moreover\r\nMethod Validation and Quantitative Determination of Antiviral Drug\r\nAcyclovir in Human Plasma by a LCMS/MS\r\nGanesh Holkar*, Vinayak Daphal*, Ravi Yadav* and M. D. Rokade*\r\n*JJT University, Jhunjhunu-Churu-Bishau Road Chudella, Jhunjhunu, (RJ)\r\n(Recieved 10 January 2012 Accepted 25 February 2012)\r\nABSTRACT : A simple, sensitive and selective LCMS/MS method has been developed for the determination of\r\nacyclovir in human plasma. Since acyclovir is a polar compound and soluble in aqueous medium and practically\r\ninsoluble in most of organic solvents its analysis in biological fluids in currently published HPLC methods,\r\ninvolve pre-treatment of acyclovir plasma sample including deproteinization or solid phase extraction, Acyclovir\r\nin plasma were concentrated by solid phase extraction and chromatographed on a C18 column using a mobile\r\nphase of 0.1% formic acid : methanol (30 : 70% v/v). The method was validated over a linear range of 20 - 1000\r\nng mL–1 for acyclovir. The LOQs were 60.0 and 900 ng mL–1. The validated method was applied for the quantitation\r\nof acyclovir from plasma samples in a pharmacokinetic study.\r\nKeywords: Acyclovir; LCMS/MS; Plasma; solid phase extraction\r\nabout 1 ml of solvent is required for elution of the drug\r\nfrom the cartridges. How ever, in solid phase extraction\r\nmethods, the drug is eluted by application of aqueous\r\nsolvents. As these solvents can-not easily be evaporated,\r\ndilution of the samples reduces the method sensitivity.\r\nDifferent limits of quantification (LOQ) ranging from 10 to\r\n200 ng/mL of serum have been reported in published\r\nmethods, however; LOQ of less than 50 ng/mL has been\r\nachieved in these methods by either increasing the injection\r\nvolume [13-14] and/or application of highly acidic mobile\r\nphase [15] and at the expense of rapid deterioration of the\r\nanalytical column.\r\nEXPERIMENTAL\r\nA. Chemicals and reagents\r\nAcyclovir (99.8%) was provided by Cipla Inc. and\r\ndexchlorpheniramine (99.9%) was obtained from Sigma\r\nAldrich Co., HPLC grade methanol was purchased from\r\nMallinckrodt Baker, S.A.de C.V. (Estado de Mexico, Mexico).\r\nGR grade formic acid, GR grade Hydrochloric acid was\r\nobtained from Merck Specialties Pvt. Ltd. (Mumbai, India).\r\nUltra-pure water was obtained from an TKA Water\r\nPurification System. Blank human blood was collected from\r\nhealthy drug-free volunteers by Bhosale Pathology. Plasma\r\nwas obtained by centrifugation of blood treated with K2\r\nEDTA plasma as anticoagulant. Pooled plasma was prepared\r\nand then stored at approximately “20°C until needed.\r\nB. Calibration Standards and Quality Control\r\nStock solutions of acyclovir and internal standard\r\n(dexchlorpheniramine) were prepared in Methanol at\r\nconcentrations of 100ppm. Calibration curves of acyclovir\r\nwere prepared by spiking blank plasma at concentrations of\r\n20.0, 60.0, 120.0, 200.0, 350.0, 600.0, 800.0 and 1000.0 ng/ml.\r\nBiological Forum — An International Journal, 4(1): 11-17(2012) ISSN No. (Print) : 0975-1130\r\nISSN No. (Online) : 2249-3239\r\n12 Holkar, Daphal, Yadav and Rokade\r\nThe analysis was carried out in duplicate for each\r\nconcentration. The quality control samples were prepared in\r\nblank plasma at concentrations of 60.0, 300.0 and 900.0 ng/\r\nml (LQC, MQC and HQC, respectively). The spiked plasma\r\nsamples (standards and quality controls) were extracted from\r\neach analytical batch along with the unknown samples.\r\nC. Sample preparation\r\nPrior to analysis, all frozen subject samples, calibration\r\nstandards and quality control samples were thawed and\r\nallowed to equilibrate at room temperature. To an aliquot of\r\n0.500 mL of spiked plasma samples, 50 mL internal standard\r\nwas added and vortexed for 10 s. Further, 0.500 mL of 0.1 N\r\nhydrochloric acid was added and vortex mixed for another\r\n10 s. Centrifugation of the samples was done at 3200 × g\r\nfor 2 min at 10°C. The samples were loaded on Oasis HLB\r\n(1 cc, 30 mg) extraction cartridges which were preconditioned\r\nwith 1 mL of methanol followed by 1 mL of water. Drying of\r\ncartridges was done for 1 min by applying nitrogen\r\n(1.72 × 105 Pa) at 2.4 L/min flow rate. Elution of analytes\r\nand IS from the cartridges was carried out with 0.200 mL of\r\nwater, followed by 0.300 mL of methanol into pre-labeled\r\ntubes. The contents were vortexed to mix and 5 μL was\r\nused for injection in the chromatographic system.\r\nD. Chromatographic conditions\r\nA Shimadzu LC–VP HPLC system (Kyoto, Japan)\r\nconsisting of LC-10AD prominence pump, SIL-HTc auto\r\nsampler, CTO 10 ASvp column oven and a DGU-14A\r\ndegasser was used for setting the reverse phase liquid\r\nchromatographic conditions. The separation of ACV and IS\r\nwas performed on a Phenomenex analytical column type\r\nGemini, C18, 150 mm × 4.6 mm (length × inner diameter) with\r\n5 μm particle size and was maintained at 40°C in column\r\noven. The mobile phase consisted of 0.1% formic acid and\r\nmethanol (30:70, v/v), For isocratic elution, the flow rate of\r\nthe mobile phase was kept at 0.8 mL/min. The total eluate\r\nfrom the column was split in 70:30 (v/v) ratio; flow directed\r\nto the ISP interface was equivalent to 240 L/min. The\r\nchromatographic run time was 2.0 min. The sample manager\r\ntemperature was maintained at 5°C and the pressure of the\r\nsystem was 4.13 × 106 Pa. Under these conditions, typical\r\nstandard retention times were 0.86 ± 0.1min for acyclovir\r\nand 0.71 ± 0.2 min for dexchlorpheniramine, and backpressure\r\nvalues of approximately 60 bar were observed.\r\nTemperature of the auto-sampler was kept at 6°C and runtime\r\nwas set to 2.0 min.\r\nE. Mass-Spectrometric conditions\r\nIonization and detection of analyte and IS was carried\r\nout on a triple quadrupole mass spectrometer, MDS SCIEX\r\nAPI-4000 (Toronto, Canada), equipped with electrospray\r\nionization (TIS interface of the API 4000) and operating in\r\npositive ion mode. Quantitation was performed using multiple\r\nreaction monitoring mode to monitor precursor ® product\r\nion transitions at m/z 226.2 ® 152.2 for ACV and 307.1 ®\r\n220.3 for IS respectively . The source dependent parameters\r\nmaintained for ACV and IS were Gas 1 (Nebuliser gas):\r\n40.0 psig; Gas 2 (heater gas flow):60.0 psig; ion spray voltage\r\n(ISV): 5500.0 V, turbo heater temperature (TEM):\r\n400.0°C; interface heater (Ihe): ON; entrance potential (EP):\r\n10.0 V; collision activation dissociation (CAD): 5 psig and\r\ncurtain gas (CUR), nitrogen: 20 psig. The optimum values\r\nfor compound dependent parameters like declustering\r\npotential (DP), collision energy (CE) and cell exit potential\r\n(CXP) set were 50 and 39 V; 25 and 28 eV; 10 and 13 V for\r\nACV and IS respectively. Quadrupole 1 and 3 were\r\nmaintained at unit mass resolution and the dwell time was\r\nset at 200 ms. Analyst software version 1.4.2 was used to\r\ncontrol all parameters of the LC and MS.\r\nF. Linearity\r\nLinearity was determined to assess the performance of\r\nthe method. A linear least-squares regression with a\r\nweighting index of 1/x2 order was performed on the peakarea\r\nratios of acyclovir and I.S. versus Acyclovir\r\nconcentrations of the eight plasma standards (20.0, 60.0, 120.0,\r\n200.0, 350.0, 600.0, 800.0 and 1000.0 ng/ml) to generate a\r\ncalibration curve. Unknown sample peak-area ratios were\r\nthen interpolated from the calibration curve to provide\r\nconcentrations of acyclovir.\r\nG. Specificity and selectivity\r\nBlank samples from six different pools of plasma,\r\nincluding one lipemic and one haemolyzed, were tested for\r\ninterference using the proposed extraction procedure and\r\nanalytical conditions.\r\nH. Recovery\r\nThe recovery was evaluated by calculating the mean\r\n(and RSD) of the response of each concentration and\r\ndividing the extracted sample response by the unextracted\r\nsample mean of the corresponding concentration.\r\nComparison with the unextracted samples, spiked on plasma\r\nresidues, was performed in order to eliminate the matrix\r\neffect, providing a true recovery. Matrix effect experiments\r\nwere carried out using the ratio between spiked mobile phase\r\nsolutions and unextracted samples, spiked on plasma\r\nresidues.\r\nI. Stability\r\nStability quality control plasma samples (20.0 and 1000.0\r\nng/ml) were subjected to short-term (8 hrs) room temperature,\r\nthree freeze/thaw (“15 to 25°C) cycles, 24 hrs autosampler\r\nstability (6°C) and long-term stability at “15 to 25°C (24\r\ndays) tests. Subsequently, the acyclovir concentrations were\r\nmeasured compared to freshly prepared samples.\r\nHolkar, Daphal, Yadav and Rokade 13\r\nJ. Precision and Accuracy\r\nTo assess precision and accuracy of the developed\r\nanalytical method, four distinct concentrations in the range\r\nof expected concentrations were evaluated using eight\r\ndeterminations per concentration.\r\nPrecision and accuracy was assessed at within-day\r\nbasis (intra-batch) during a single analytical run and at a\r\nbetween-day basis (inter-batch), which measures the between\r\nday variability, possibly involving different analysts and\r\nregents.\r\nK. Ionic Suppression\r\nA procedure to assess the effect of ion suppression on\r\nthe MS/MS was performed. The experimental set-up\r\nconsisted of an infusion pump connected to the system by\r\na “zero volume tee” before the split and the HPLC system\r\npumping the mobile phase, which was the same as that\r\nused in the routine analysis of acyclovir, i.e. 0.1% formic\r\nacid and methanol (30:70, v/v), at a flow-rate of 0.800 ml\r\nmin”1. The infusion pump (Harvard Apparatus, Holliston,\r\nMA, USA) was set to transfer (10 ìl/min) a mixture of analyte\r\nand internal standard in mobile phase (both 50 ng/ml). A\r\nsample of human pooled blank plasma was extracted and\r\nthe reconstituted extract was injected into the HPLC system\r\nwhile the standard mixture was being infused. In this system\r\nany ion suppression would be observed as a depression of\r\nthe MS signal.','Ganesh Holkar*, Vinayak Daphal*, Ravi Yadav* and M. D. Rokade* (2012). Method Validation and Quantitative Determination of Antiviral Drug\r\nAcyclovir in Human Plasma by a LCMS/MS.Biological Forum — An International Journal, 4(1): 11-17.'),(4459,'123','Nine New Records of Moth from Andaman and Nicobar Islands','C. Sivaperuman*, Suresh K. Shah*,C. Raghunathan*, Kailash Chandra** and K. Venkataraman*','5 SIVAPERUMAN.pdf','',1,'The Great Nicobar Biosphere Reserve is the southernmost Island of Andaman and Nicobar\r\narchipelago. The tropical rain forests of this Biosphere Reserve represent high level of biological diversity. This\r\nstudy was conducted during 2008 to 2011 and sampling of moths was carryout in different locations using light\r\ntrap. In this paper we reported nine new records of moths from Andaman and Nicobar Islands.','Andaman, Great Nicobar, Lepidoptera, Moths, Nicobar.','The Great Nicobar Biosphere Reserve is the southernmost Island of Andaman and Nicobar\r\narchipelago. The tropical rain forests of this Biosphere Reserve represent high level of biological diversity. This\r\nstudy was conducted during 2008 to 2011 and sampling of moths was carryout in different locations using light\r\ntrap. In this paper we reported nine new records of moths from Andaman and Nicobar Islands.','INTRODUCTION\r\nMoths are one of the large taxonomic groups and they\r\nare assumed as less attractive of their dull coloration and\r\nnocturnal habit, but there are crepuscular, diurnal and some\r\nbrilliantly colored fascinating species. It is estimated that\r\nover ten thousand species of moths are to be found in\r\nIndia belongs to 41 families (Beccaloni, 2003). The Andaman\r\nand Nicobar Islands is known for rich biodiversity resources.\r\nThe archipelago comprises 572 islands and extending over\r\n800 km in the Bay of Bengal. The topography of the\r\nAndaman and Nicobar Islands are hilly and undulating, the\r\nelevation in Andaman is from 0 to 732 m and Saddle Peak is\r\nthe highest in North Andaman Islands. In the Nicobars the\r\nelevation rises from 0 to 568 m, Mt Thuillier being the\r\nhighest peak on Great Nicobar Island. The habitats\r\nrepresented in the islands include bays, mangroves, moist\r\ndeciduous forests and evergreen forests. These islands are\r\ntropical, that is, warm, moist and equable. The proximity of\r\nthe sea and the abundant rainfall prevent extremes of heat.\r\nThe mountainous parts of the southern group of islands\r\nget about 300 cm of rain annually whereas the islands of\r\nnorth get less rainfall. Flora and fauna of Andaman bears\r\nclose biogeographical affinities with Myanmar and Thailand\r\nwhile Nicobar has affinities with Indo-Mayan regions.\r\nSTUDY AREA\r\nThe Great Nicobar Biosphere Reserve (GNBR) is the\r\nsouthernmost Island of Andaman and Nicobar archipelago.\r\nIt is situated between 6° 45’ and 7° 15’ N latitudes and\r\n93° 38’ and 93° 55’ E longitudes and lies about 482 km\r\nsouth of Port Blair and about 145 km North of Sumatra. The\r\nGNBR includes Campbell Bay and Galathea National Park.\r\nThis island experiences tropical climate with mean annual\r\ntemperature of 22-32° C, relative humidity of 82 per cent\r\nand rainfall of 300-380cm. This reserve is known for its\r\nunique biodiversity and houses rich genetic germplasm\r\nresources. The Great Nicobar Biosphere Reserve represents\r\nthe tropical evergreen forests of Indo-Malayan region and\r\nBiological Forum — An International Journal, 4(1): 23-26(2012)\r\nthe major forest area in this Biosphere Reserve is still in its\r\nvirgin state.\r\nReview of literature reveals that only few studies have\r\nbeen conducted on the moth fauna Andaman and Nicobar\r\nIslands (Bhummanawar et al., 1991; Chandra and Kumar,\r\n1992; Chandra, 1993, 1994, 1996, 1997; Chandra and Rajan,\r\n2004; Sivaperuman et al., 2010; Sivaperuman et al., 2011).\r\nDuring the recent faunal surveys conducted in Great Nicobar\r\nBiosphere Reserve, we have recorded nine species of moth\r\nwhich are new to Andaman and Nicobar Islands (Plate 1).\r\nThe species were identified using Hampson, (1892, 1894,\r\n1895 and 1896); Barlow (1982) and Holloway (1988, 1989\r\nand 1993). The species marked with double asterisk (**) are\r\nnew record from India. The diagnosis, distribution and\r\nsystematic position of each species are presented in this\r\npaper.\r\nSYSTEMATIC ACCOUNT\r\nOrder : Lepidopetra\r\nSuborder : Heterocera\r\nFamily : Arctiidae\r\n1. Garudinia acornuta Holloway **\r\nGarudinia acornuta Holloway, www.mothsofborneo.\r\ncom/part 7/pl.\r\n1982. Garudinia acornuta Holloway, An introduction\r\nto the Moths of South East Asia: 70.\r\nMaterial Examined: 1 ex.\r\nDiagnosis : Thorax white, forewing yellowish white; two\r\ndark chocolate brown bands on each of the forewing; sub\r\nbasal band from the sub costal nervure to inner margin, sub\r\nmarginal band slightly angled, wider end on the costa and\r\nthe edges wide at middle, hind wing white with marginal\r\narea suffused with fuscous, apex excised.\r\nISSN No. (Print) : 0975-1130\r\nISSN No. (Online) : 2249-3239\r\n24 Sivaperuman, Shah, Raghunathan, Chandra and Venkataraman\r\nDistribution : Malaysia and Borneo.\r\n2. Olepa racini (Fabricius)\r\n2008. Olepa racini (Fabricius), Records of Zoological\r\nSurvey of India 108(Part-2): 104.\r\n1894. Arctia racini, Fabricius, Fauna of British India\r\nVol. II: 17.\r\nMaterial Examined : 1 ex.\r\nDiagnosis : Thorax dark grey brown, forewing fuscous\r\nbrown with throughout pale ringed numerous blotches, hind\r\nwing crimson with ante medial, medial, post medial and\r\nmarginal bands of conjoined brown spots.\r\nDistribution : India, Sri Lanka and Bangladesh.\r\nFamily: Geometridae\r\n3. Petelia delostigma Prout**\r\n1993. Petelia delostigma Prout, The Moths of Borneo,\r\nPart 11: 103.\r\nMaterial Examined : 1 ex.\r\nDiagnosis : Thorax fawn, forewing brownish fawn with\r\nrufous striations, apical dark patches and black discal spots,\r\nhind wing similar without any black apical patch, strong\r\ndiscal spots on underside.\r\nDistribution : Borneo, Java and Sumatra.\r\n4. Cleora onycha Fletcher\r\n1993. Cleora onycha Fletcher, The Moths of Borneo,\r\nPart 11: 217\r\n1953. Carecomotis onycha Fletcher, Ann. Mag. Nat. Hist.\r\n(12) 6 (62): 109\r\nMaterial Examined : 1 ex.\r\nDiagnosis : Thorax dull brown, forewing fuscous brown\r\nwith undefined discal spots conjoined with costal margin,\r\nhind wing with more distinct post medial crenulated fascia.\r\nDistribution : N.E. Himalaya, New Guinea.\r\nFamily : Noctuidae\r\n5. Calyptra minuticornis Guenee\r\n1982. Calyptra minuticornis Guenee, An introduction\r\nto the Moths of South East Asia: 110p.\r\n1894. Calpe minuticornis Guenee, Fauna of British\r\nIndia Vol. II: 565.\r\nMaterial Examined : 4 exs.\r\nDiagnosis : Thorax red brown, forewing pale red-brown\r\nwith indistinct sub basal, ante medial and medial oblique','C. Sivaperuman*, Suresh K. Shah*,C. Raghunathan*, Kailash Chandra** and K. Venkataraman* (2012). Nine New Records of Moth from Andaman and Nicobar Islands.Biological Forum — An International Journal, 4(1): 23-26.'),(4460,'123','Diversity of Macrofungi in Shivapuri National Park of Kathmandu\r\nValley, Nepal','Sanjay Kumar Jha* and N.N. Tripathi*','6 DR NN TRIPATHI.pdf','',1,'Shivapuri Nagarjun National Park is the one of important park in Nepal. It is located in the\r\ncountry\'s mid-hills on the Northern fringe of the Kathmandu Valley. The annual precipitation of about 1,400\r\nmm falls mostly from May to September. Temperatures vary from 2-17°C during the winter season, rising 19-30°C\r\nduring the summer season. The macrofungal diversity is very rich due to litter decomposition. During present\r\nstudy a survey was made along the road side of the national park up to the height of 1800m. in order to collect\r\nvariety of macrofungi were called habit, habitat, substrate and ethnobotanical information. The species were\r\ndeposited in Museum, Department of Botany and identified through morphological and microscopic examination\r\nof pileus and stipes, colour of pileus, gills and stipes, cap profiles, stem profiles, spore structure. Out of 50\r\nmacrofungal species collected, 22 species were identified. The species were Abortiporus biennis, Agaricus\r\nhaemorrhoidarius, Amanita smithiana, Amanita phalloides, Amanita vaginata, Bovista pila, Boletus chrysentern, Calocybe\r\nchrysenteron, Cantharellus cibarius, Chrysomphalina chrysophylla, Coltricia cinnamonea, Lepiota ochraceofulva,\r\nMacrolepiota rhacodes, Omphalotus oleariusus, Rhizopogon luteolus, Russula delica, Russula emetic, Rusula fragilis,\r\nRussula sororia, Stereum hirsutum, Thelophora fuscella, Xerocomus badius','Macrofungi, diversity, poisonous, medicinal.','During survey, 50 macrofungal species were collected,\r\n22 species were identified belonging to 14 families. The\r\ndiversity of climatic condition prevalent in Nepal made the\r\nregion a natural habitat of large number of macrofungal\r\nspecies. These macrofungal species play an important key\r\nrole in sustenance of tribal, aborigines and other inhabitants\r\nliving in vicinity of tropic and temperate forests, harboring\r\nthese macrofungal resources. They use them in various ways\r\nfor edible as well as curing several diseases and ailments.\r\nMacrofungi can be used as an aid in solving the problems\r\nof global importance including protein shortage, resource\r\nrecovery and environmental management','INTRODUCTION\r\nShivapuri Nagarjun National Park is the ninth national\r\npark in Nepal and was established in 2002. It is located in\r\nthe country\'s mid–hills on the northern fringe of the\r\nKathmandu Valley and named after Shivapuri Peak of 2,732m.\r\naltitude. It covers an area of 159 km2 in the districts of\r\nKathmandu, Nuwakot and Sindhupalchowk, adjoining 23\r\nVillage Development Committees. The area has always been\r\nan important water catchment area, supplying the Kathmandu\r\nValley daily with several hundred thousands cubic liter of\r\nwater. In 1976, the area was established as a protected\r\nwatershed and wildlife reserve. In 2002, it was gazetted as\r\nShivapuri National Park, initially covering 144 km2, and\r\nextended by the Nagarjun Forest Reserve in early 2009 to\r\nits present size. The park is located in a transition zone\r\nbetween subtropical and temperate climate. The annual\r\nprecipitation of about 1,400 mm falls mostly from May to\r\nSeptember, with 80% during monsoon. Temperatures vary\r\nfrom 2–17°C during the winter season, rising to 19–30°C\r\nduring the summer season (Bhuju, et al., 2007).\r\nThere are numerous fungi that produce fleshy fruiting\r\nbodies known as mushroom belonging to group\r\nBasidiomycetes and Ascomycetes. Macrofungi are defined\r\nas fungi that form macroscopic fruiting bodies, which can\r\nbe either epigeous or hypogenous and large enough to be\r\nseen with naked eye and to be picked by hand. The most\r\ncommon type of macrofungi is umbrella shaped while other\r\nspecies are in the form of gilled fungi, jelly fungi, coral\r\nfungi, stinkhorns, barket fungi, puffballs and bird nest fungi\r\npliable cups, round like golf balls. Besides, they are in the\r\nshape of small clubs, coral and human ear like. Macrofungi\r\nmay be edible, inedible, medicinal and poisonous also. Many\r\nkinds of macrofungi are not edible, but also possess tonic\r\nand medicinal qualities (Chang and Miles, 2004). Macrofungi\r\nare heterotrophic, saprophytes and utilize lignocellulosic\r\nwastes. The organic materials from which macrofungi derive\r\ntheir nutrition are referred to as substrates. They appear in\r\nall season, chiefly during rainy weather, wherever organic\r\nmatter or decomposition products are available. Macrofungi\r\nare not only beautiful but play a significant role in daily life\r\nof human beings besides their utilization in industry,\r\nagriculture, medicine (Molina et al.,1993) and as biofertilizers\r\nand many other ways (Hunt,1999; Gates ,2005).\r\nBerkeley (1854) described 44 species of higher fungi\r\nfrom Nepal. Adhikari (2000) reported nine genera of\r\nAscomycotina and twenty–eight genera of Basidiomycotina\r\nfrom Maipokhari, East Nepal. Further, Adhikari (2001) reported\r\n11 wild mushroom species from Kathmandu valley. Adhikari\r\nand Adhikari (2003) collected 12 species of fleshy fungi from\r\nthe vicinity of Duradanda, Lamjung. Adhikari (2004) studied\r\nthe mushroom poisoning and its state in Nepal. He found\r\nthe annual casualty rate was between 15 and 30 people in\r\nthe urban areas.The major report of Christensen et al. (2007)\r\nis available which recorded 228 species of wild macrfungi\r\nfrom Nepal. Therefore, present study is undertaken to collect\r\nthe detailed information of macrofungi of Shivapuri area up\r\nto the height of 1800m.\r\nISSN No. (Print) : 0975-1130\r\nISSN No. (Online) : 2249-3239\r\n28 Jha and Tripathi\r\nMATERIALS AND METHODS\r\nThe specimens were collected from July, 2010–October,\r\n2011 using methods of (Kumar et al., 1990; Atri et al., 2003).\r\nDuring collecting the mushrooms various equipments such\r\nas hunting knife, digging tools, scissors and wax paper\r\npockets for wrapping the collected mushrooms were used.\r\nMorphological details such as shape, size, color of the fresh\r\nspecimens were recorded before preservation. Collected\r\nspecimens were then preserved in a liquid preservative\r\n(25 : 5 : 70 ml Rectified alcohol + formalin + distilled water,\r\nHawksworth et al., 1995). Crystals of 1–4, dichlorobenzene\r\nwere used to protect dried specimen from insect infection.\r\nPhotographs of fresh specimens were taken in the field with\r\ndigital camera (Panasonic DMC–F2). Microscopic\r\ncharacterization was carried out with cotton blue lactophenol\r\n(1g/100ml lactophenol). Identification of various macrofugal\r\ngenera was made using publication of Adhikari (2000a), Arora\r\n(1996) and Singer (1996). Information related to species of\r\nvarious macrofungal genera was also taken from\r\nHawkshworth et al. (1995) and Kirk et al. (2008).\r\nIdentification was made on the basis of critical observations\r\nof the specimens and Mycokey (http:/www.mycokey.com).\r\nAll the identified and un–identified specimens were diposite\r\nto herbarium, Bacteriology and Natural Pesticide Laboratory,\r\nDepartment of Botany, DDU Gorakhpur University, Gorakhpur\r\nU.P. India.\r\nRESULTS AND DISCUSSION\r\nDuring the survey 50 species of macrofungi were\r\ncollected 22 species were identified belonging to 14 families.\r\nThese are individually described. The present description\r\nagrees with the description given by Jordan (1995).\r\n1. Abortiporus biennis (Bulliard: Fries) Singer (Family–\r\npolyporaceae) (Fig. 1.)\r\nSpecimen No. DDUNPL–097\r\nDiagnostic characters: Fruiting body annual, fan–\r\nshaped to infundibuliform, pilei 6–12 cm broad, often\r\nclustered; margin level to uplifted, wavy; upper surface\r\ntomentose, white, pinkish, reddish–brown, tan to ochre–\r\nbrown, \"aberrant fruitings\" also produced, consisting of\r\ncauliflower–like layered masses, the entire surface poroid;\r\ncontext up to 1.0 cm thick, two–layered, upper layer soft–\r\ntextured, lower layer leathery, stipe if present, poorly\r\ndeveloped, spores ellipsoid to ovoid, smooth, hyaline, non–\r\namyloid.\r\nHabitat: In small groups in soil or grass near wood\r\nstumps Place of collection: Panimuhan, Altitude: 1280m,\r\nDate of collection: June 17, 2011. Edibility–Inedible.\r\n2. Agaricus haemorrhoidarius Kchb. & Schulz. (Family–\r\nAgaricaceae) (Fig. 2A, 2B)\r\nSpecimen No. DDUNPL–098\r\nDiagnostic characters: Medium–sized agaric with brown\r\nscaly cap, chocolate or black gills, stem with ring and\r\nbulbous base, flesh reddening where damaged; in trooping\r\ngroups on soil with broad–leaf trees. Cap 6.0–9.0cm dia;\r\nstem 6.0–10cm tall × 1.0 –2.0cm dia. Cap dull umber–brown,\r\nbreaking up into addressed scales against a slightly more\r\npallid background; at first sub–spherical, becoming convex\r\nand expanded. Gills blackish, free, crowded spores chocolate\r\n–brown, smooth. Stem white, then tinged brown more or\r\nless equal but with broad bulbous base. Ring white, single,\r\npendulous, superior.\r\nHabitat: On soil, Place of collection: Mudkhu, Altitude:\r\n1280m. Date of collection: July 13, 2011. Edibility: Edible\r\n3. Amanita smithiana Bas (Family–Amanitace) (Fig. 3).\r\nSpecimen No DDUNPL–099\r\nDiagnostic characters: Medium to large, the spiny warts\r\nwhich clothes the fruiting body, cap whitish, stem white,\r\ngills white, free, on soil, solitary, poorly scattered. Cap\r\n5.0–11.0cm dia; stem 6.0–18.0cm tall × 1.5–2.5cm. Cap white\r\nwith spiny warts, convex, gills white, free, spore hyaline,\r\nsmooth, ellipsoid. Stem white covered with spiny warts, basal\r\nbulb. Ring absent.\r\nHabitat: On soil, Place of collection: Shivapuri,\r\nAltitude: 2250m, Date of collection: Augest 2, 2010.\r\nEdibility: Deadly poisonous (Symptoms include nausea\r\nand vomiting beginning 2–12 hours after ingestion and\r\nprogresses to kidney failure in 2–6 days).\r\n4. Amanita phalloides (vaill.:Fr.) Link (Family– Amanitaceae)\r\n(Fig.4)\r\nSpecimen No. DDUNPL–0100\r\nDiagnostic characters: Medium to large fleshy agaric\r\nwith greenish–olive cap, whitish stem, no patches but\r\ndistinctive volval sheath: solitary or scattered on soil,\r\nfavouring mixed light broad–leaf woods, usually with oak.\r\nCap 5.0–10cm dia; stem 6.0–11cm tall × 0.8–1.5cm dia. Cap\r\ngreenish, with yellow or olivaceous tinges, convex, becoming\r\nexpanded or flattened. Gills white, free, crowded, spores\r\nhyaline, smooth, sub–spherical or broadly ellipsoid, amyloid.\r\nStem white or tinged cap colour, tapering upwards, basal\r\nbulb sheathed by large, loose, ragged, white volval sac.\r\nRing white.\r\nHabitat: On soil, Place of collection: Shivapuri,\r\nAltitude: 1850m. Date of collection: July 08, 2011.\r\nEdibility: Deadly poisonous. It contains both phallotoxins\r\nand amanitins. All human organs are effected, but damage\r\nto the liver is primarily responsible for the death of A.\r\nphalloides victims. Symptoms usually appear 8–12 hours\r\nafter ingestion. Death occurs in 5–7 days in 10–20 % of\r\npatients.\r\nJha and Tripathi 29\r\n5. Amanita vaginata (Bull.:Fr.) Vitt. (Family – Amanitaceae)\r\n(Fig. 5)\r\nSpecimen No. DDUNPL–0101\r\nDiagnostic characters: Medium –size, greyish, fleshy\r\nagaric with volval bag but no ring or cap patches, solitary\r\nor scattered on soil. Cap 4.0–7.5cm dia. stem 10 – 18cm tall\r\n× 1.0–2.0cm dia. Cap greyish brown, expended to almost flat\r\nwith a slight umbo and with sulcate margin. Gills white with\r\ntinged cap color, stem tapering upwards, arising from large\r\nvolval bag, Ring absent.\r\nHabitat: On soil, Place of collection: Mudkhu\r\nAltitude: 1500m, Date of collection: July 24, 2010.\r\nEdibility: Medicinal.\r\n6. Bovista pila Berk. and Curt. (Family – Lycoperdaceae)\r\n(Fig. 6a, 6b).\r\nSpecimen No. DDUNPL–0102\r\nDiagnostic characters: Large, white or grey, solitary,\r\nscattered, to gregarious along trails, grassy areas, or in sandy\r\nsoils under tree fruiting throughout the rainy season or\r\nstarting of the winter season. Fruiting body 7.0–11.0cm broad,\r\nglobose to slightly compressed, lacking a sterile base,\r\nattached to the substrate via a white mycelial cord, peridium\r\nthin, thick; exoperidium white, glabrous to matted–tomentose,\r\nbecoming dingy–tan, endoperidum metallic–grey, gleba white,\r\nturning olivaceous, then dark–brown to slightly purplish at\r\nmaturity, texture firm; spores released via apical cracks and\r\ntears; sterile base and subgleba absent; odor and taste mild.\r\nSpores–Spores 3.5–4.5 μm, globose, thick–walled, smooth\r\nto roughened, often with a central oil droplet, some with a\r\nclear, short pedicel, usually <1.0 μm, rarely up to 3.0μ spores\r\ndark–brown; capillitium bovistioid, composed of individual\r\nfilaments, branching more or less dichotomously from a\r\ntrunk–like base; pits absent.\r\nHabitat: Under the tree Place of collection: Mudkhu,\r\nAltitude: 1400m. Date of collection: October 24, 2010.\r\nEdibility: Inedible.\r\n7. Boletus chrysentern Bll. (Family–Boletaceae) (Fig. 7)\r\nSynonym: Xerocomus chrysenteron (Bull.) Quélet\r\nSpecimen No.DDUNPL–0103\r\nDiagnostic characters: Medium–sized, Pileus–dark\r\nbrown to olive brown, soon areolate, the exposed context\r\npallid at the disc, pinkish near the margin; flesh white, thick,\r\nSolitary or in small groups in hardwood, Hymenophore–Pores\r\nrelatively large 1–2 mm, yellow, Stipe–thick, dry, smooth to\r\nlongitudinally ridged, yellowish, with reddish tints usually\r\npredominating at the base. Cap 5.0–9.5cm dia. Stem 5.0–\r\n11cm tall × 1.0–1.5 cm dia. Spores–Spores 11.5–14.0 × 4–6\r\nμm, smooth, elliptical to fusiform; spore print olive–brown.\r\nHabitat: Under the tree, Place of collection: Panimuhan,\r\nAltitude: 1400m. Date of collection: September 24, 2010.\r\nEdibility: Edible (But not popular).\r\n8. Calocybe chrysenteron (Bull.: Fr.) (Family–\r\nTricholomataceae) (Fig. 8)\r\nSpecimen No. DDUNPL–0104\r\nDiagnostic characters: Small to medium–sized fleshy\r\nagaric, reddish–orange cap with yellow margin, yellowish\r\ngills, in trooping groups on stumps and dead wood of\r\nbroad–leaf trees. Cap 3.5–6.0cm dia; stem 3.0–5.0cm tall ×\r\n0.4–0.5cm dia. Spores hyaline, smooth, sub–spherical, non–\r\namyloid, droplets. Cystidia and ring absent.\r\nHabitat: On dead wood, Place of collection: Mudkhu,\r\nAltitude: 1350m. Date of collection: October 24, 2011.\r\nEdibility: Edible (Confusion must be avoid with\r\npoisonous species).\r\n9. Cantharellus cibarius L.: Fries. (Family – Cantharellaceae)\r\n(Fig. 9)\r\nSpecimen No. DDUNPL–0105\r\nDiagnostic characters: Egg–yellow, funnel–shaped\r\nfruiting body with gills, on soil in trooping groups on twigs,\r\nleaves and other litter of broad–leaf trees. Cap 2·0–7·0cm\r\ndia; stem 2·0–6·0cm tall × 0·3–0·9cm dia. Cap egg–yellow\r\nwith in curved margin and wavy, smooth and more or less\r\nshiny. Gills absent–lower surface yellow bearing vein–like\r\nridges, irregularly froked, decurrent. Stem yellow slightly\r\ntapering downwards. Flesh yellowish, fading and firm.\r\nHabitat: on soil in trooping groups on twigs, leaves\r\nand other litter, Place of collection: Shivapuri, Altitude:\r\n1600m. Date of collection: July 30, 2011. Edibility: edible.\r\n10. Chrysomphalina chrysophylla (Fries) Clémençon\r\n(Family–Tricholomataceae) (Fig. 10).\r\nSynonyms: Omphalina chrysophylla (Fries) Murrill;\r\nGerronema chrysophyllum (Fries) Singer.\r\nSpecimen No.DDUNPL–0106\r\nDiagnostic characters: Small to medium orange agaric\r\nwith funnel–shaped cap and broad decurrent gills, in troops\r\non soil.Cap 1.5–5.0cm dia. Stem 1.5–4.0cm tall × 0.1–0.3cm\r\ndia. convex, broadly so in age, often with a depressed disc;\r\nmargin incurved at first, becoming decurved, light–brown to\r\napricot–brown over a dull yellowish ground color, palest at\r\nthe margin, fading overall in age; flesh thin, pale yellow–\r\norange, unchanging. Gills subdecurrent to decurrent, not\r\nforked, moderately broad, thin, at first pale–yellow, becoming\r\nyellowish–buff. Stipe–stuffed to hollow, more or less, equal,\r\nround, somewhat brittle; surface glabrous, dull orange–brown\r\nlighter at the apex; partial veil absent. Spores–Spores\r\n9–14 × 4.5–6 μm, elliptical, smooth, nonamyloid; spore print\r\nnot seen. Ring absent.','Sanjay Kumar Jha* and N.N. Tripathi* (2012). Diversity of Macrofungi in Shivapuri National Park of Kathmandu Valley, Nepal.Biological Forum — An International Journal, 4(1): 27-34.'),(4461,'112','Genetic Diversity Analyses of Key Stored Grain Insect Pests of Rice Collected from the Grain Supply Chains of Tamil Nadu','S. Upasna and S. Mohankumar*','301 Genetic Diversity Analyses of Key Stored Grain Insect Pests of Rice Collected from the Grain Supply Chains of Tamil Nadu S. Upasna.pdf','',1,'The rice weevil, Sitophilus oryzae, and the red flour beetle, Tribolium castaneum are the two commonly identified stored grain pests worldwide. The development of phosphine resistance and the spread of phosphine resistant alleles poses a serious threat to the grains in storage. Therefore, to develop an effective pest management strategy, it is essential to understand the movement of these insects which helps in preventing the spread of phosphine resistant alleles that is a serious threat to the global food security. Grain samples were collected from the grain supply chains of Theni and Trichy. Storage pets were collected from the grain samples and mass cultured. Genetic diversity analyses were done with both mitochondrial COI and nuclear markers. Genetic diversity analyses with mitochondrial marker revealed a significant gene flow in both populations. A significant negative Tajima’s D from both the insect pest species revealed the evidence for population expansion among these pests. Whereas, the genetic diversity analyses using microsatellite markers revealed a low genetic differentiation in both S. oryzae and T. castaneum populations. Also, a high level of gene flow was observed between both the populations and the genetic structure revealed the existence of admixed populations. These results suggested the need for broad-scale and species-specific management measures to prevent the spread of phosphine-resistant alleles.','Sitophilus oryzae, Tribolium castaneum, mitochondrial COI, microsatellite markers, genetic diversity','Both mitochondrial and microsatellite markers used for the characterization of genetic diversity revealed that there is gene flow between these populations and there is a potential risk in the spread of phosphine resistant alleles. The migration of these insect pests due to transportation and flight activity are the major concerns to be resolved. Also, broad-scale species-specific management measures are required for phosphine resistance management of these key stored grain insect pests. ','INTRODUCTION\r\nSitophilus oryzae (Linnaeus) and Tribolium castaneum (Herbst) are the cosmopolitan pests that causea serious threat to the grains in storage when left uncontrolled (both qualitatively and quantitatively) in storage (Cotton, 1920). Losses along the grain supply chain account for about 10-15 percent loss in quantity and 25-50 percent loss in quality (Mesterházy et al., 2020). It destroys various food grains such as rice, maize, wheat, oats, and other cereals. Both larvae and adults feed on the grains thereby reducing the quality of the grain leading to economic losses (Park et al., 2003). Excessive use of the fumigant (phosphine) has led to the development of heritable resistance that makes them difficult to control (Champ and Dyte 1976; Daglish et al., 2002) and has increased the possibility of the spread of these resistant alleles. Knowledge of the patterns of insect movement which likely affect the population structure aids in developing an alternative pest management strategy (Kim and Sappington 2013). Investigations of stored grain insect movement using pheromone traps and other techniques are limited to both geographical extent and temporal scale, and rare occurrences of movement may be ecologically relevant yet easily overlooked (Chapman et al., 2003). Hence, analyses of population genetics have been widely employed to investigate patterns and magnitudes of dispersal in both geographic and temporal dimensions. This data is especially important for analysing the spread of pesticide resistance, which is a serious problem in many agricultural systems (Guedes et al., 2019). Understanding the genetic diversity with neutral markers viz., mitochondrial cytochrome oxidase I (COI) has provided information on the movement and the levels of genetic variation among the populations (Avise, 2000). In addition, the ability of population genetics to understand the gene flow has been dependent on the development of suitable molecular markers and population genetics theory for deriving strong inferences from the observed variations in marker loci (Kim and Sappington 2013). \r\nS. oryzae has been characterized with limited flight activity (Vásquez-Castro et al., 2009), while T. castaneum has been characterized by its ability to fly from the nearest grain storage facility to several kilometers (Ridely et al., 2011; Rajan et al., 2018). In addition, anthropogenic movement during the transport of grain enhances the threat of resistant insect movement. Hence, studying the movement and the genetic diversity of these insect pests is important for developing an effective pest management strategy. This information helps in monitoring the spread of resistant alleles which is a potent challenge in the post-harvest grain pest management system. In this study, the mitochondrial and nuclear markers have been used to elucidate the movement of the pests across the two grain supply chains in Tamil Nadu by analysing the population structure and genetic differentiation among these pest populations. \r\nMATERIALS AND METHODS\r\nA. Insect collection and Mass culturing\r\nS. oryzae and T. castaneum populations were collected from the two districts of Tamil Nadu viz., Trichy and Theni belonging to the two major rice-producing agro-climatic zones namely the Cauvery Delta zone and Southern zone respectively. Grain samples were collected from the supply chain covering the bulk grain storage, public distribution systems, processing units, wholesale shops, retail shops, and households. The bulk grain storages are comprised of the central and state warehouses that store and distribute food grains to the consumers through the public distribution system (ration shops) (Pal, 2011). Processing units such as rice mill distribute grains through retail or wholesale shops (Table 1).\r\nGrain samples were collected from 3 to 5 sites in each cluster through the standard zigzag sampling method (Semple et al., 1992). Samples were drawn from the periphery and sides of the grain stacks in a zigzag pattern. This yielded about 3-5 kg of grains. The collected samples were screened for the presence of insects using a metal brass sieve (1.7–4.0 mm size, IS460 – Gilson Company, Inc., Lewis Center, Ohio, 43035, USA) and mass cultured in culture media (wheat flour for T. castaneum and whole wheat grains for S. oryzae) under laboratory conditions by following the FAO methodology (1975). Culture media were disinfested by freezing it at -20°C for 24-48 hours to eliminate the existing insect pests. T. castaneum and S. oryzae insects were released separately in a 2.5 kg plastic container with the respective media and 5.0 percent brewer’s yeast and placed for oviposition. Throughout the study period, the cultures were maintained at a temperature of 30±2ºC and relative humidity of 60±5 percent. After oviposition, the emerged grubs were allowed for development into adults and the resulting progenies were used for the study.\r\nB. DNA isolation, PCR amplification of the mitochondrial gene, and sequencing\r\nGenomic DNA was isolated from the individual adult of S. oryzae and T. castaneum from each node of the grain supply chain by using the HotSHOT method (Montero-Pau et al., 2008). Two buffers were used in this method that comprised of alkaline lysis buffer containing 25mM NaOH and 0.2 mM Na2EDTA, and a neutralizing solution containing 40mM Tris-HCl. The individual insect was homogenized with 100 µl alkaline lysis buffer (pH-8.0) and incubated at 95°C in a hot water bath for 30minutes. After incubation, the samples were allowed to cool at 4°C for 5-10 min. Then 100 µl neutralizing solution (pH-5.0) was added to each tube and vortexed to settle down the debris. The extracted DNA samples were stored at -20°C. The DNA samples were checked both qualitatively and quantitatively using agarose gel electrophoresis (0.8 percent agarose) and nanodrop spectrophotometer respectively.\r\nA fragment of mt-COI region was amplified using primers LCO 1490(5\'-GGTCAACAAATCATAAAGATATTGG-3\') and HCO 2198 (5\'-TAAACTTCAGGGTGACCAAAAAATCA-3\'; Folmer et al., 1994). Polymerase chain reactions were performed in 25µl reactions, containing 14.7µl water, 2.5µl of 10X Taq Buffer (TaKaRa™), 2.5µl of 250µM dNTPs, 1.5µl of 10µM forward primer, 1.5µl of 10µM reverse primer, 0.3µl of 5U/µl Taq polymerase (TaKaRa™) and 2µl of template DNA (50 ng/µl). PCR reactions were performed using Mastercycler® Nexus (Eppendorf) that involved an initial denaturation step of 5 min at 95°C, followed by 35 cycles of denaturation for 30 s at 95°C, annealing for 30 s at 56°C, extension for 30 s at 72°C and a final extension at 72°C for 10 min. Amplified PCR products were sequenced in both directions at AgriGenome Labs Pvt. Ltd., Kochi, Kerala, India. DNA sequences obtained in this study were identified using the BLASTn algorithm.\r\nC. Nucleotide sequence analyses\r\nThe 33mt-COI sequences of S. oryzae and T. castaneum were trimmed and aligned using Geneious version 11.1.3 (https://www.geneious.com; Kearse et al., 2012). Haplotype (Hd), nucleotide diversity (π), and genetic flow index (Nm) were calculated in DnaSP version 6.12.03 (Librado and Rozas, 2009). Kimura 2-parameter (K2P) was used to compute the genetic distance (d) between and within the populations using MEGA X Ver. 10.0.5 (Kumar et al., 2018). Pairwise FST was calculated to analyze the genetic differences between the population pairs using ARLEQUIN version 3.5.1.2 (Excoffier and Lischer 2010). The level of significance was assessed with 10,000 coalescent simulations. Pairwise genetic differentiation and gene flow between the populations were also determined. \r\nD. Nuclear marker analyses\r\nDNA from S. oryzae and T. castaenum collected from different nodes of the grain supply chain were amplified using a set of 11 and 9 microsatellite markers respectively (Thangaraj et al., 2016; Ridely et al., 2011) (Table 2). Polymerase chain reactions (PCR) were carried out in 10 µlof cocktail mixtures containing 6.0 µl of PCR Master Mix (Emerald Amp PCR Master mix- TaKaRa Bio), 1.0 µl of forward primer, 1.0 µlof reverse primer, and 2 µl of template DNA. Reactions were performed using Mastercycler® Nexus (Eppendorf). PCR conditions involved an initial denaturation step of 5 min at 95°C, followed by 35 cycles of denaturation for 30 s at 95°C, annealing for 30s at 56°C, extension for 30 s at 72°C and a final extension at 72°C for 10 min. PCR products were resolved in agarose gel electrophoresis to analyze the banding patterns.\r\nFrom the banding patterns of SSR amplification, the fragment lengths of each allele were scored manually using Alpha Ease FC™ software. GenAlex version 6.5 was used to calculate the Analysis of Molecular Variance (AMOVA), genetic distance, and other diversity parameters including the number of alleles (Na) and the number of effective alleles (Ne), Observed \r\nHeterozygosity (Ho), and Expected Heterozygosity (He) (Peakall and Smouse 2006). Free NA was used to calculate global Fst values using ENA correction (Chapuis and Estoup 2007). Population structure was determined with Principal Component Analysis using the facto extra package in R (Kassambara & Mundt 2017).\r\nIn addition, an individual-based Bayesian clustering algorithm, STRUCTURE version 2.3.3 (Pritchard et al., 2000) was used to investigate the population structuring and gene flow. The analysis was carried out under the non-admixture model with alleles correlated. Twenty replicates for each value from K=1 to K=5 were conducted, with an initial burn-in of 100,000 iterations followed by 1,000,000 iterations. The most likely value of K was determined using the web server of STRUCTURE HARVESTER. The clustering results of STRUCTURE were visualized over CLUMPAK (Clustering Markov Packager across K) (http://clumpak.tau.ac.il/index.html), a web server that provides a full pipeline for clustering, summarizing, and visualizing STRUCTURE results.\r\nRESULTS AND DISCUSSION\r\nGenetic diversity using mitochondrial and microsatellite markers in S. oryzae and T. castaneum populations collected from two grain supply chains of Tamil Nadu are presented in this study. Mitochondrial COI gene, a neutral genetic marker was used to draw information on the genetic diversity and the movement among the populations. In addition, microsatellite markers were used for population genetic studies because of their ability to detect multiple alleles (Choudhary et al., 2009). S. oryzae and T. castaneum individuals were genotyped using 11 and 9 microsatellite markers respectively to evaluate the genetic diversity and differentiation among these populations.\r\nA. Genetic diversity analyses using mitochondrial COI in S. oryzae and T. castaneum populations\r\nThe 623 and 654 bp COI sequences from 33 S. oryzae and T. castaneum populations were respectively obtained. NCBI-BLAST analysis of these sequences revealed the respective S. oryzae and T. castaneum populations (E-value=0.0; percentage identity ranging from 99 to 100 percent. Sequencing of S. oryzae and T. castaneum populations from two grain supply chains revealed 8 and 9 haplotypes respectively. High haplotype and low nucleotide diversity were observed in these sequences. The haplotype and nucleotide diversity in S. oryzae was 0.472 ± 0.01 and 0.04 ±0.00 respectively. Whereas, in T. castaneum, the haplotype and nucleotide diversity were 0.684 ± 0.00 and 0.09 ±0.00 respectively. The overall average nucleotide differences between the two sequences (K) in S. oryzae was 3.12 and T. castaneum was 4.27 (Table 3). \r\nHigh haplotype diversity in combination with low nucleotide diversity has been associated with population expansion (Grant and Bowen, 1998). In addition, the recent spread of endosymbionts or the emergence of new strains from the existing endosymbionts may be the reason for low genetic diversity within the population (Hurst and Jiggins, 2005). No ambiguous site or stop codon was detected which ensured that these sequences were not nuclear pseudogenes. The distribution of haplotypes among S. oryzae and T. castaneum is mentioned in Table 4. The overall mean distance between S. oryzae and T. castaneum was 0.36 ± 0.006. The neutrality test revealed the demographic history of these populations. Tajima’s D and Fu’s F values were negative and statistically significant suggesting the occurrence of population expansion. AMOVA results of S. oryzae populations showed that 98.93 percent of the variation was observed within the populations and 1.07 percent variation was observed among the populations. The molecular variances in S. oryzae suggested that this species has a weak and unstable regional genetic structure (Cheng et al., 2011). Whereas in T. castaneum, 97.66 percent variation was observed among the populations and 2.34 percent variation was \r\nobserved within the populations (Table 5a & b). The high flight activity along with the anthropogenic movement during transport might have contributed to the genetic diversification among the populations. The overall FST was low for S. oryzae (0.01; P< 0.05) and high for T. castaneum populations (0.97; P<0.05). Also, the gene flow was high in S. oryzae populations (Nm=2.62) and lowin T. castaneum populations (Nm=0.70).When Nm <1, genetic drift becomes the dominant force causing genetic differences among populations, according to gene flow studies. When Nm >1, gene flow between populations is sufficient to overcome the effects of genetic drift, preventing genetic differentiation (Xuet al., 2019a). The genetic diversity of S. oryzae and T. castaneum populations was less which probably might be due to the closer geographical distance. This also indicated that the S. oryzae and T. castaneum are likely to spread to adjacent locations. In addition, based on the genetic differentiation and gene flow between the populations, increased transportation would have facilitated the dispersal of the insect populations. Low genetic differentiation might increase the species’ adaptability to environmental change (Xu et al., 2019b).\r\nB. Genetic diversity characterized with microsatellite markers in S. oryzae and T. castaneum populations\r\nThe genetic diversity and differentiation among the S. oryzae and T. castaneum populations are tabulated (Table 6). This showed a total of 127 alleles with an average of 11.39 alleles per locus. The effective number of alleles ranged from 7.47 to 10.89 with a mean of 8.58. Whereas in T. castaneum, a total of 201 alleles with an average of 18.35 alleles per locus. The effective number of alleles ranged from 10.14 to 14.16 with an average of 12.62 effective alleles per locus. The frequency of null alleles was (<0.15) at all loci except Sit_02which might be due to the differential amplification of size-variant alleles (Wattier et al., 1998).\r\nThese results indicated that these markers are effective in differentiating among the S. oryzae and T. castaneum \r\npopulations collected from different locations. The expected and observed number of heterozygosity ranged from 0.83 to 0.88 and 0.02 to 0.05 respectively in S. oryzae. Whereas in T. castaneum, the expected and observed heterozygosity ranged from 0.84 to 0.92 and 0.85 to 0.88 respectively. The mean observed heterozygosity of all loci was much lower than the expected heterozygosity indicating an elevated level of inbreeding (mean Fs=0.94). However, these results are found to bein contrast with the previous reports where geographically distinct populations were studied (Thangaraj et al., 2016). In addition, the observed heterozygosity was similar to the expected heterozygosity in all the clusters suggesting that there is no evidence for recent population bottlenecks in T. castaneum populations.\r\nThese differences in the two insect species revealed the presence of potential genetic differences. The genetic differentiation among the populations was estimated using fixation index and the gene flow at each locus was calculated. Global Fst values for S. oryzae and T. castaneum populations were 0.037 and 0.075 respectively. Pairwise Fst values ranged from 0.00 to 0.125 in S. oryzae and 0.00 to 0.10 in T. castaneum respectively and were found to be significant (Table 7a, 8a). The low level of genetic differentiation might be due to more closely related populations. However, the estimation of gene flow (Nm) was relatively high (Nm > 1) (Table 7b, 8b). It was reported that the migration of S. oryzae was relatively low in comparison with S. zeamais (Vásquez-Castro et al., 2009). Despite its limited flight activity, anthropogenic movement during the transportation of food grains appeared to be the \r\nmost likely mode of movement on a large scale. Due to insufficient rice production, Tamil Nadu procured rice from surplus states such as Andhra Pradesh, Chhattisgarh and Orissa on monthly basis (https://fci.gov.in/movements.php). This might be a probable reason for the migration of these insects. Alternatively, T. castaneum has a high active (flight) or passive (anthropogenic dispersal capacity (Daglishet al., 2017; Rafter et al., 2019; McCulloch et al., 2021) which might be the possible reason for the high gene flow among these populations. The high level of gene flow characterized by active and passive flight movement suggested a threat in the spread of phosphine-resistant alleles across the grain supply chains. In contrast, the previous studies reported that the increased phosphine resistance reduced the flight activity in these insect pests (Malekpour et al., 2016).\r\nThe PCA analysis for S. oryzae showed that PC1 had 37.1% variance and PC2 had 27.3% variance and suggested that there was no significant genetic structure in S. oryzae populations. Similarly, PCA analysis for T. castaneum showed that PC1 had a variance of 34.5% whereas PC2 had a variance of 22.2%. The analysis of principal components showed that there was no significant genetic structure in T. castaneum populations (Fig. 1a & b). Significant overlap was found between the populations.\r\nSeveral approaches have been used for interpreting the structure data that often appear to be conservative (Earl & von-Holdt, 2012) or liberal (Falush et al., 2003) in assigning the number of genetic clusters. In this study, Earl & von-Holdt’s (2012) method indicated K=2 (Fig. 2a & b) showing admixed populations in both S. oryzae and T. castaneum. The lnP(K) value was -19887.46 and -16125.63 for S. oryzae and T. castaneum respectively and recorded as a maximum at K=2. The less distinctive genetic structure indicated the occurrence of the high gene flow between the populations (Redlarski et al., 2021).\r\n','S. Upasna and S. Mohankumar (2022). Genetic Diversity Analyses of Key Stored Grain Insect Pests of Rice Collected from the Grain Supply Chains of Tamil Nadu. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 14(1): 1710-1719.'),(4462,'112','Bioefficacy of Biopesticides and Pesticides for the Management of Coriander Powdery Mildew caused by Erysiphe polygoni, Seed Yield and Economics of Coriander (Coriandrum sativum L.)','Ms. Bhavana Yadav*, Reena Nair, U.K. Chanderia and Nazneen Hussain','302 Bioefficacy of Biopesticides and Pesticides for the Management of Coriander Powdery Mildew caused by Erysiphe polygoni, Seed Yield and Economics of Coriander Coriandrum sativum L. Ms. Bhavana Yadav.pdf','',1,'Powdery mildew caused by Erysiphe polygoni DC is one of the major constraints in the production of coriander. In order to find out the effective biopesticides and fungicides against Erysiphe polygni experiment was carried out in field condition & the plots were laid out in Randomised Block Design (RBD) with three replications. Different combinations of biopesticides and fungicides were tested in different concentrations to see how effective they were. Among the different combinations of treatments, Lecanicillium lecanii + Carbendazim (first spray) + Propiconazole (second spray) was the most effective with mean 3.98 Percent Disease Index after first spray and 3.50 PDI after second spray over untreated control 6.23 PDI (first spray) and 6.15 (second spray). The highest seed yield kg/ha (1149.00), gross income Rs 103,410 ha-1, net income Rs 59394 ha-1and B:C ratio 2.34:1 was obtained in the treatments combination of Acetamiprid + Propiconazole (first spray) + Carbendazim (second spray) closely followed by Lecanicillium lecanii + Propiconazole (first spray) + Carbendazim (second spray). The frequent incidence of powdery mildew in coriander demand for effective combination of biopesticides and fungicides. ','Fungicides, Biopesticides, Erysiphe polygni, Powdery mildew, Percent Disease Index (PDI)','The present research concluded that biopesticides are a set of tools whose applications will help farmers transit from highly toxic conventional chemical pesticides into an era of truly sustainable agriculture. In light of the experimental findings summarized above, it may be concluded that among various treatments the best treatment for powdery mildew control after first and second spray was T6 i.e. Two foliar sprays of Lecanicillium lecanii (1×109 cfu/g) + Spray of Carbendazim @ 0.1% (first spray) + Spray of Propiconazole @ 0.05% (second spray). Even though T7 i.e. Two foliar sprays of Acetamiprid (0.004%) + Propiconazole @ 0.05% (first spray) + spray of Carbendazim @ 0.1% (second spray) keeping the fact of the highest gross income and B:Cratio.','INTRODUCTION\r\nIn all parts of the world, powdery mildew has long been recognized as a serious plant disease. Erysiphe polygoni DC, which causes powdery mildew, was described by Salmon (1900). Coriander (Coriandrum sativum L.) belongs to the family of Apiaceae and commonly known as Cilantro, Chinese parsley or Dhania. This is a significant spice seed crop with the chromosomal number 2n=22. It is a native of Italy, and is presently cultivated in Central & Eastern Europe, Mediterranean regions (Morocco, Malta, Egypt) & Asia (China, Pakistan, India & Bangladesh). It\'s an annual herbaceous plant that thrives in the months of October through February. It’s tender aerial parts stem, leaf, fruits are used due to aromatic flavour. The crop is grown in practically every state in the country; however the biggest coriander-growing states are Rajasthan, Madhya Pradesh, Uttar Pradesh, and Uttarakhand. Rajasthan produces high-quality coriander and has a large share of the country\'s land and production.As per the 2017-2018 forecast, the total coriander area is 665190 ha with output of 866800 tonnes. Madhya Pradesh is the leading state with 277,410 ha and 39,1460 tonnes of seed coriander production, respectively, in area and production (Spices Board 2019). The essential oil is contained (0.03 to 2.6 percent) (Nadeem et al., 2013)\r\nPowdery mildew (Erysiphe polygoni) is a very important disease of coriander resulting in heavy losses. Kalra et al. (2000) observed effect of powdery mildew on yield and yield components of early and late maturing cultivars of coriander. The disease is caused by Erysiphe polygoni DC. The disease is air borne in nature and spreads in entire field within short duration under moderately cool and dry weather condition (25-30°C). Powdery white masses are observed sprinkled on the foliage and tender plant parts which cover the whole foliage and plant parts. The leaves turn yellow then brown. A broad array of fungicides and insecticides are used to control insect-pest and disease by the growers and often these control agents are used in judiciously being an export commodity the importers are very much conscious about the residue levels of various insecticides as a consequence, persistent residues of these chemicals contaminate oil quality and disperse in the environment.\r\nBio-pesticides are pesticides manufactured from naturally occurring compounds that use non-toxic methods to keep the environment safe and pests at away. There are no alternatives to chemical fungicides such as biopesticides or biological control agents that could be used for managing powdery mildew in Sweden today. Sulphur, which is categorised as a preventative fungicide, is permitted, but is commonly not used due to high risk of phytotoxicity in cucumber, especially at high temperatures in the greenhouse (Cerkauskas and Ferguson 2014); H. Hermans, Innocrop Consulting, pers. comm.).\r\nAs a prevention measure, bio-pesticides are mostly used, but they do not work as quickly as other conventional chemical pesticides do.As a response, the current research aims to identify an alternative to bio-pesticides, such as new compounds and combinations of bio-pesticides and other chemicals, for the control of aphids and powdery mildew without causing harm to the crop, natural enemies, pollinators, or the environment. Several workers reported that, propiconazole, myclobutanil, triadimefon and hexaconazole were found to be effective in reducing powdery mildew incidence in different crops (Sharma, 1991; Sharmila et al., 2004; Singh, 2006; Pramod and Dwivedi, 2007; Akhileshwari et al., 2012). From previous studies of powdery mildew controlled by the different combinations of treatments but the current investigation conclude that the combination of Lecanicillium lecanii + Carbendazim (first spray) + Propiconazole (second spray) could be utilize as an effective control.\r\nMATERIAL AND METHODS\r\nThe field trial was carried out in Horticulture complex, Maharajpur, Department of Horticulture. During the Rabi season of 2019-2020, the Jawaharlal Nehru Krishi Vishwa Vidyalaya in Jabalpur, Madhya Pradesh tested a variety of coriander called Cimpoo S 33 in a randomised block design with three replications and 10 treatments.Combinations of Lecanicillium lecanii 1.15 percent WP @ 40 g/10 L, Acetamiprid 20 SP @ 0.2 ml/plot, Imidachloprid 17.8 percent SL @ 14.2 ml/3 plot, Propiconazole 25 EC @ 1.7 ml/plot, Imidachloprid 17.8 percent SL @ 14.2 ml/3 plot, Propiconazole 25 EC @ 1.7 ml/plot, Carbendazim 50WP @ 100g/10 plot, SAAF (12% Carbendazim + 63% Mencozab) @ 0.25% were tested in comparison with untreated control (Table 2). For crop production, all the suggested agricultural practices have been adopted. Bio-pesticide and fungicide 2 sprays (First spray at the onset of disease was given as soon as infestation of powdery mildew appeared on crop and second spray at 15 days after first spray). Pre and post treatment of PDI recorded at 3,7,15 and 21 days after spraying. Observations on disease intensity were recorded from five plants randomly selected from each treatment after fifteen days of last spray using 0-4 scale. By scoring the percentage of disease severity, each plant was evaluated for its disease response. As per Table 1, disease scoring was done using 0-4 scale. (Anon., 2004).\r\nThe percent disease index (PDI) was calculated according to the formula suggested by Datar and Mayee (1981).\r\nPDI = [(Total grade)/(Maximum grade)] × [(100)/(No. of leaves scored]\r\nRESULT AND DISCUSSION\r\nThe results on Percent Disease Index (PDI) after first and second spray presented in Table 3. \r\n\r\nResult of the present study was showed that there was non-significant difference among different treatments before spray indicating uniform distribution of Disease Index among different treatments. Present findings are in accordance with Ushamalini and Nakkeeran (2016). It is seen from the data that there was a substantial difference in the percentage severity of coriander disease during the year.\r\nThe mean of disease incidence are varied from 6.23 to 3.98 PDI among the treatment after first spray. Efficacy of different treatments along with reduction in mean disease index in descending order are summarized below: T10 (6.23) > T5 (5.60) > T9 (5.44) >T1 (5.33) > T2 (5.28) > T4 (5.25) > T3 (5.00) > T8 (4.64) > T7(4.50) > T6 (3.98). The lowest PDI 3.98 was reported in treatment combination of Lecanicillium lecanii + Carbendazim over untreated control 6.23 PDI. After second spray accordance to the data presented in Table 3 significantly varied PDI from 6.15 to 3.50. Application of different treatments and their result with reduction in mean disease index in descending order are presented below:\r\nT10 (6.15) > T9 (4.97) > T4 (4.85) > T5 (4.68) > T2 (4.59) > T3 (4.53) > T1\r\n(4.40) > T8 (4.33) > T7 (3.81) > T6 (3.50). Treatment combination of Lecanicillium lecanii + Propiconazole observed minimum PDI 3.50. The present results are in conformity with the results of Amin et al. (2019). Six fungicides (Tebuconazole 0.1%, Propineb 0.2%, Azoxystrobin 0.1%,Wettable sulphur 2%, Hexaconazole 0.1% and Propiconazole 0.1%) were evaluated& the minimum disease intensity and higher yield were recorded when the plots sprayed with propiconazole (0.1%), which was at par with hexaconazole (0.1%) and wettable sulfur (0.2%).Deshmukh et al. (2018) also reported similar result with among the six fungicide evaluated under field conditions, three sprays of Hexaconazole@ 0.1% and Propiconazole@ 0.1% was found more effective in reducing disease severity and yield which was at par with each other. At the point of the first development of haustoria, propiconazole works on the fungal pathogen within the plant. It prevents fungal growth by interfering with the biosynthesis of sterols in the membranes of the cells. While preventive, curative or eradicative use is allowed by the biological mode of action of propiconazole, the best results are obtained when the substance is administered when the disease is present but still active in the early stage of development. Similar findings were also reported by Singh (2006), who reported that spraying Azole compounds was effective in reducing the occurrence of powdery mildew in coriander and the effectiveness of propiconazole against powdery mildew. Ushamalini and Nakkeeran (2016), also studied, were found to be effective in reducing the incidence of powdery mildew by spraying propiconazole (0.15 percent).The efficacy of Propiconazole against powdery mildew was also reported in chilli (Sharmila et al., 2004) and in okra (Vijaya, 2004); Khunt et al. (2017) also reported that the efficacy of six different fungicides in different concentration and among the different fungicides, Propiconazole (0.025%) was the most effective fungicide with mean 4.43 per cent (pooled) disease intensity and maximum disease control of 79.28 per cent followed by Wettable sulphur (0.2%).\r\nIt is evident from the data presented in Table 4 that all the treatment combinations significantly increased the coriander yield. The highest seed yield (1149 kg/ ha) has been observed in treatment combination of Acetamiprid + Propiconazole + Carbendazim which was followed by Lecanicillium lecanii + Propiconazole + Carbendazim reported (1090 kg/ha) over untreated control (761 kg/ha). The present findings are in agreement with Daunde et al., (2018) who reported that among the nine treatments, Propiconazole (0.1%) was superior over all other treatments with maximum fruit yield of 36.13 q/ha which is followed by Myclobutanil (0.1%) with the fruit yield of 34.56 q/ha. Arvindarajan et al. (2017) also reported similar result with the treatment 0.006 percent Dinetofuran, which was statistically equal to 0.004 percent Acetamiprid (816 kg/ha), 0.08 percent Spiromesifen (795 kg/ha), 0.03 percent Dimethoate (790 kg/ha), and 0.02 percent Flonicamid (752 kg/ha), produced the highest cowpea grain yield of 853 kg/ha.\r\nApplication of Acetamiprid + Propiconazole + Carbendazim caused significant influence on gross income, net income and B:C ratio. It was recorded maximum gross income (Rs. 103,410 ha–¹), netincome (Rs. 59394 ha–¹) and B:C ratio (2.34:1). \r\nThis was followed by combination of spray Lecanicillium lecanii + Propiconazole + Carbendazim on gross income (Rs. 98,100 ha–¹), net income (Rs. 53963 ha–¹) and B:C ratio (2.22:1) over untreated control (1.61:1) (Table 5). \r\nPresent findings are in accordance with Parmar and Arvindrajan (2017) on the basis of economics, Acetamiprid 0.004 per cent (1: 21.8) proved to be most economically viable treatment followed by 0.03 per cent Dimethoate (1:21.2), 0.08 per cent Spiromesifen (1:9.8), 0.006 per cent Dinetofuran (1:9.4), 0.0075 per cent Chlorfenapyr (1:5.8), 0.003 per cent Clothianidin (1:5.5) and 0.02 per cent Flonicamid (1:4.8).\r\n','Ms. Bhavana Yadav, Reena Nair, U.K. Chanderia and Nazneen Hussain (2022). Bioefficacy of Biopesticides and Pesticides for the Management of Coriander Powdery Mildew Caused by Erysiphe polygoni, Seed Yield and Economics of Coriander (Coriandrum sativum L.). Biological Forum – An International Journal, 14(1): 1720-1725.'),(4463,'123','Diversity of Ectoparasites Present on some Species of Bats from\r\nNavegaon National Park, Maharashtra, India','V.S. Zade*, V.G. Thakare*, Lateef Ahmad Malik*, A.A. Kali** and P.H. Dandge***','7 DR VARSHA.pdf','',1,'Ectoparasites are a diverse and highly adapted faunal group of animals which may live permanently\r\non their host or they may occupy host\'s nest and visit the body of the host periodically. Bat species are often\r\ninfested with several bat fly species (ectoparasites). A faunal study of the ectoparasites of various bat species was\r\ndone in the study area i.e. Navegaon Natioanl Park in Navegaon, District Gondia, Maharashtra. Ectoparasite\r\ncollection and study was done from one Megachiropteran and four Microchiropteran bat sps. roosting in the study\r\narea. A Taphozous species of bat was found to be most ectoparasite infested species followed by Megaderma lyra &\r\nPteropus giganteus. Raymondia lobulata, a streblid fly was the most abundant ectoparasite collected.','Parasites, Ectoparasites, Bats, Maharashtra.','Ectoparasites are a diverse and highly adapted faunal group of animals which may live permanently\r\non their host or they may occupy host\'s nest and visit the body of the host periodically. Bat species are often\r\ninfested with several bat fly species (ectoparasites). A faunal study of the ectoparasites of various bat species was\r\ndone in the study area i.e. Navegaon Natioanl Park in Navegaon, District Gondia, Maharashtra. Ectoparasite\r\ncollection and study was done from one Megachiropteran and four Microchiropteran bat sps. roosting in the study\r\narea. A Taphozous species of bat was found to be most ectoparasite infested species followed by Megaderma lyra &\r\nPteropus giganteus. Raymondia lobulata, a streblid fly was the most abundant ectoparasite collected.','INTRODUCTION\r\nParasites infect hosts that exist within their same\r\ngeographical area (sympatric) more effectively. This\r\nphenomenon is supported by \"Red Queen Hypothesis\",\r\nwhich states that interaction between species (such as host\r\nand parasite) lead to constant natural selection for adaptation\r\nand counter adaptation (Lively et al. 2000).\r\nEctoparasites are a diverse and highly adapted faunal\r\ngroup of animals which may live permanently on their host\r\nor they may occupy host\'s nest and visit the body of the\r\nhost periodically. Though ectoparasites live and feed on\r\nthe external surfaces and provide no known benefit to their\r\nhost, they in most cases do not cause host mortality\r\n(Marshall 1981, Clayton 1991).\r\nEctoparasites are abundant in natural communities, can\r\nhave pronounced deleterious fitness consequences to their\r\nhost and are important vectors of transmissible parasitic\r\ndisease. The ectoparasites have the potential to affect the\r\nhealth and general well being of wild life and domestic animal\r\npopulation and they may seriously restrict habitat and land\r\nresources used, because of stress and reduced performance\r\nof animals living in a particular habitat. Ectoparasites can\r\nreduce the long term survival (Brown et al. 1995, Chapman\r\nand George 1991), reduce clutch or brood size (Mappes\r\net al. 1994, Moss and Camin 1970), change breeding\r\nbehaviour (Emlen 1986, Moller 1991, Wimberger 1984), or\r\nincrease the cost of reproduction in hosts (Moller, 1993).\r\nBats are among the nature\'s most beneficial animals and\r\nundoubtedly, many are key stone species. Without them\r\nthousands of other animals and species could die,\r\nthreatening entire ecosystem from rain forests to deserts.\r\nBat species are often infested with several bat fly species\r\n(ectoparasites) (Wenzel et al. 1966; Wenzel 1976; Dick and\r\nGettinger 2005). As blood feeding parasites, bat ectoparasites\r\nwould appear excellent vector of zoonoses. Generally high\r\ndegree of host specificity (Marshal 1976, Dick and Gettinger\r\n2005) diminish likelihood of interspecific transfer of bat\r\ndiseases and pathogens.\r\nAlthough levels of parasitism can vary greatly among\r\nindividual bats of same species, little is known about the\r\ncharacteristics of hosts that affect such variations.\r\nThere are several groups of Insects and Arachnids,\r\nwhich are recorded as ectoparasites of bats in India. They\r\nare the insects belonging to the families Cimicidae,\r\nPolytenidae (Hemiptera : Heteroptera); Streblidae,\r\nNycteribiidae (Diptera : Pupipara); Ischnopsylliae\r\n(Siphonoptera) and the Arachnids belonging to the families\r\nSpinturnicidae, Mocronyssidae, Myobiidae, Trombiculidae,\r\nSarcoptidae, Argasidae and Ixodidae (Acarina).\r\nInsects are ubiquitous as ectoparasites and use as host\r\nmainly mammals of the order Rodentia and Chiroptera and\r\nbirds (Marshal 1981, Clayton and Moore 1997). The\r\narthropod ectoparasites of bats belong to the Siphonoptera,\r\nDiptera, Hemiptera, Dermaptera (ticks and mites) but they\r\nare not necessarily restricted to bats (Whitker 1988).\r\nAccording to Marshal (1982) 687 bat ectoparasite insect\r\nspecies are known, belonging to Dermaptera, Hemiptera,\r\n36 Zade, Thakare, Malik, Kali and Dandge\r\nDiptera and Siphonoptera order. Six families from these four\r\norders are restricted to bats.\r\nThe Diptera includes two families that are exclusively\r\nbat ectoparasites, Nycteribiidae and Streblidae (Allen 1967).\r\nInformation pertaining to ectoparasites of bats is poorly\r\nknown in the Indian context. Hence, a faunal study of the\r\nectoparasites of various bat species in the study area i.e.\r\nNavegaon Natioanl Park was done. An effort was also done\r\nto study the many factors, which result in differences in\r\nectoparasite associations among different species of bat.\r\nMATERIALS AND METHOD\r\nDescription of Study Area:\r\nThe capturing of bats for their ectoparasitic collection\r\nand study was done from Navegaon National Park located\r\nin Navegaon. The park is situated as Southern part of Gondia\r\ndistrict, in Eastern Maharashtra. The National Park spread\r\nover an area of 135 sq. kms is one of the most popular\r\nforest resorts in the Vidarbha region with GPS location\r\nN-20°55 lattitude, E-080°06 longitude. Navegaon National\r\nPark exhibits amazing diversity of terrain and altitude ranges\r\nfrom nearly 30 meters to about 702 meters above the mean\r\nsea level. The climate here is hot and wet. It receives quite\r\na bit rainfall during the monsoons, which ranges from mid-\r\nJune to Sept\r\nThe National Park has diverse type of vegetation\r\nranging from dry mixed forest to moist forest. The forest\r\ntype is 5A/C3, Southern tropical dry deciduous forest. The\r\nmain plant species are Teak, Haidu, Jamun, Kawath, Mahua,\r\nAin, Bel and Bhor etc. In the National Park four different\r\nbat roosting sites were visited for the collection of bat\r\nectoparasites.\r\nSite I: The first roosting site i.e. Pratapgad fort is located\r\nat a distance of 15 kms form the base station of the National\r\nPark. The high altitude Pratapgad fort is a very old and\r\nhuge fort of king Pratap. Due to its destructive cave type\r\ncompartmentalization bats have occupied it as their roosting\r\nsite. This site is located at GPS location N21°00 latitude\r\nE080°9 longitude. Bat species were captured for collection\r\nof their ectoparasites which were roosting on the walls and\r\nbig rocks of the Fort.\r\nSite II: The second roosting site of bat was Shrivegaon,\r\n10kms from base station. Here bats were roosting in a rocky\r\ncave. This cave serves as a hibernaculum for two species\r\nof bats. The cave consists of two passages which were\r\ninterconnected mainly by a narrow passage internally.\r\nShrivegaon is a low hilly area with a small lake at its foot\r\nhills. Temperature varies from 39°C in summer to 5°C in\r\nwinter. The GPS location of this site is N20°58¢ latitude\r\nE080°10 longitude.\r\nSite III: The third site was the famous Itiadoh dam, 20\r\nkms from the base station of the park. This is also a very\r\nhigh altitude area about 368.2 meters above the sea level,\r\nwith GPS location N20°53¢ latitude E080°07¢ longitude. Here\r\nbats had occupied the bushy and long tree\'s as their\r\nroosting site along a water stream.\r\nSite IV: The fourth and last site is Dhabi-Poney, plane\r\narea of the National Park about 24 km away from the base\r\nstation of the park. The area with a rich biodiversity is a\r\nhome of large number of bat species. Here the captured\r\nbats had occupied dry tree cervices as their location. The\r\nGPS location of this site is N20°56¢ latitude and 080°10¢ E\r\nlongitude.\r\nCapture of Bats and Collection of Ectoparasites: Bat\r\nspecimens from different primary locations were captured\r\nby using hand net and sometimes with hand by wearing\r\nbite proof gloves. The study area was visited for sampling\r\nat monthly intervals from August to December 2008. Some\r\nadult and a few juvenile host bats were captured. Upon\r\ncapture each bat was held in separate cloth bags until\r\ninspected for ectoparasites. All examinations were performed\r\non live specimens within twenty minutes of capture. As the\r\nbats were captured from different location of a national park,\r\nintense care has been taken to avoid any physical injury\r\nand life loss of bats.\r\nFor collection of ectoparasites, bats were visually\r\nscreened. There after a broad brush was dipped in absolute\r\nalcohol and it was moved on the body of bat to desensitize\r\nthe parasites for their effective collection. With the help of\r\nforceps all visible ectoparasites were removed and collected.\r\nDuring each bat inspection, the presence or absence of\r\nectoparasites was recorded. After collection of parasites, bats\r\nwere released. The collected parasites were preserved in vials\r\nwith 70% alcohol. Separate vials with label were used for\r\ncollection and preservation of parasites which were present\r\non different parts of each bat. The entire surface of the\r\nhost was inspected closely with particular attention to areas\r\nof the body (e.g. ears, head, neck, nose, axilla, patagia)\r\ntypically preferred by specific parasite taxa. After collecting\r\nthe ectoparasites in separate vials they were sealed tightly\r\nand labelled for laboratory examination. For the perfect\r\nidentification of host bat species, all the examined bats were\r\nphotographed which included the photo\'s of dorsal and\r\nventral side and particularly their dentition.\r\nAspects of the protocol for mammal collection (Presley,\r\n2007) mammal specimen processing and ectoparasite\r\ncollection, handling and storage were designed (Gordon and\r\nOwen, 1999) to reduce the likelihood of contamination (i.e.\r\nassignment of ectoparasites to the wrong host individual).\r\nPermanent slides of the collected ectoparasites were\r\nprepared in the laboratory. The camera lucida drawing of all\r\nectoparasite species were drawn. The permanent preparation\r\nof ectoparasites were then photographed using trinocular\r\nfluorescent microscope. Ectoparasites were identified with\r\nthe help of authorized keys. The identification of host bat\r\nZade, Thakare, Malik, Kali and Dandge 37\r\nspecies was carried with the assistance of Scientists of\r\nZoological Survey of India (ZSI), Pune, Maharashtra.\r\nOBSERVATION AND RESULTS\r\nA microchiropteran bat Taphozous melanopogon\r\nTemnick (Black Bearded Tomb Bat Fig. 1 and 2) was captured\r\nfrom the first roosting site. This captured species of bat\r\nwas found to harbour a single species of ectoparasite\r\nidentified as Trichobius costalimai (Fig. 11 and 12). Though\r\nthe bats were found in huge number at the roosting site,\r\nthe frequency of ectoparasite occurrence was very less. An\r\naverage number of two ectoparasites were found on each\r\nhost bat. As the number of ectoparasite found on this host\r\nspecies was very low as compared to body size of host\r\nwhich is large, indicating that prevalence of ectoparasites\r\nbears no relation with body size of host. The mobility of\r\nectoparasites (Trichobius costalamai) on the host body was\r\nfound to be very high. The occurrence of parasites was\r\nmore prominent on the furry area on ventral side of thorax.\r\nThe second roosting site harboured a bat species\r\nidentified as Megaderma lyra Geofferey (Fig. 3 and 4). The\r\ncaptured bats were infested with large number of\r\nectoparasites, identified as Raymondia (Brachyotheca)\r\nlobulata species belonging to class Insecta (Fig. 13 and\r\n14). The average number of parasites found on bats were\r\n18 – 20 in number. Male bat was found to harbour more\r\nectoparasites as compared to the female bat. The prevalence\r\nand the mobility of ectoparasites on the host body was\r\nfound to be very high. The parasites were found to occur\r\nall over the body.\r\nThe second species identified from the same site (cave)\r\nwas Taphozous sp. of the Family Emballonuridae belonging\r\nto suborder Microchiroptera (Fig. 5 and 6). Ectoparasites\r\nwere abundant in all three captured bats with average\r\nnumber of 20–22 ectoparasites mainly located on head (1–2\r\nectoparasites), pinna (3–4), neck (10–12) and pategia (2–3).\r\nThe parasite identified on Taphozous species was\r\nRaymondia lobulata (Brachyotheca) Speiser (Fig. 15) which\r\nwas also found on Megaderma lyra Geofferey. On visual\r\nscreening for ectoparasites it was observed that female bats\r\nharboured more parasites than male. The ectoparasites on\r\nthis host were highly mobile and more prevalent. The reason\r\nfor occurrence of same species of ectoparasite (R. lobulata)\r\non two different species of bats may be due to same roost\r\npreference by which cross infestation may have occurred,\r\nconfirming the stenoxenous nature of the ectoparasite.\r\nBats belonging to suborder Megachiroptera were\r\nobserved at the 3rd roosting site. Around 395 bats were\r\nfound, to roost on this site. The roosting site were the\r\nbushy and long trees along the stream of famous Itiadoh\r\ndam. From this roosting site the bat species identified was\r\nPteropus giganteus (The Indian flying fox) (Fig. 7 and 8). A\r\nsingle species of ectoparasite was found to infest the bat\r\nPteropus giganteus, identified as Basillia sp., a Dipteran\r\ninsect belonging to family Nycteribiidae (Fig. 16). The\r\nprevalence of ectoparasite on host bat was moderate\r\n(average 11 in no.) and their mobility was very less. Parasites\r\nwere more prominent on head and furry area of dorsal and\r\nventral side of thorax. As Basillia species is associated with\r\nsingle host species it is monoxenous in nature.\r\nThe host bat from the fourth site was identified as\r\nPipistrellus sp. (evening bats) of the Family Vespertilionidae\r\n(Fig. 9 and 10). All the seven bats screened visually were\r\nfound to be free of any parasitic infestation. These bats\r\nwere observed to be highly mobile.','V.S. Zade*, V.G. Thakare*, Lateef Ahmad Malik*, A.A. Kali and P.H. Dandge. Diversity of Ectoparasites Present on some Species of Bats from Navegaon National Park, Maharashtra, India. Biological Forum — An International Journal, 4(1): 35-41.'),(4464,'112','Impact of Tillage and Chemical Weed Management Practices on Wheat Yield and Nutrient Uptake (Triticum aestivum L).','P.K. Para*, S.S. Kushwah, D.S. Sasode, Etka Joshi, B.K. Sharma and G. Malgaya','303 Impact of Tillage and Chemical Weed Management Practices on Wheat Yield and Nutrient Uptake Triticum aestivum L. P. K. Para.pdf','',1,'A field study titled \"Impact of tillage and chemical weed management practices on wheat yield and nutrient uptake (Triticum aestivum L).\" was conducted during the Rabi seasons of 2019-20 and 2020-21 at the Agronomy Research Farm, Department of Agronomy, R.V.S.K.V.V. Gwalior (M.P.). To determine the effect of various tillage and chemical weed control practices on growth, yield attribute, yield, nutrient content, and economics of various treatments after harvesting the wheat crop. The combination of three tillage systems (CT, ZT, MT) and seven weed management practices (Solfosulfuron, Metsulfuron-Methyl, Clodinafop, Solfosulfuron + Metsulfuron-Methyl, Clodinafop + Metsulfuron-Methyl, Two hand weeding, and weedy check) was laid out in Split Plot Design and replicated three times. The results showed that among various tillage and weed management practices, zero tillage was more significantly effective than conventional tillage in increasing growth parameters, yield attributes, and yield of wheat. Weed control practices were found more significantly effective in w6 (two hands weeding 30and 60 DAS).in a present study nutrient uptake was influenced by various factors tillage and chemical weed management practices. In zero tillage T1 was found to be most effective in significantly increasing nutrient uptake and weed control practices significantly influence w6 (two hands weeding). Zero tillage + crop residue, on the other hand, should be used to improve soil health.','Tillage, field experimentation, and chemical weed control practices','It is concluded that zero tillage was found superior in different tillage operations. The evaluation of weed control practices the two hands weeding at 30 and 60 days after sowing was found overall well about yield parameters.\r\nThe evaluation of weed control practices two hand weeding at 30 and 60 days after sowing found superior compared to other and control.\r\n','INTRODUCTION\r\nWheat (Triticum aestivum L.) is one of the world\'s most significant cereal crops and one of the most important staples for roughly 2.5 billion (36 percent) of the world\'s population, and advancements in its production have helped the country become self-sufficient in food grains. It contributes roughly 55% of all carbs and 20% of all dietary calories consumed globally (USDA, 2019). Wheat varieties have resulted in a problem with grassy weeds, particularly Phalaris minor Retz and wild oats, as a result of enhanced irrigation and fertilizer facilities (Avena ludoviciana Dur) Depending on the intensity of the infestation, A. ludoviciana has caused wheat losses ranging from 16 to 65 percent. In many sections of the country, grassy weeds in combination with broadleaf weeds are a typical occurrence, resulting in large crop losses and complicating weed management (Singh et al., 2002). For effective weed control, new herbicide molecules such as clodinafop (60-80 g ha-1), metribuzin (75-210 g ha-1), and metsulfuron-methyl4 g ha-1 have been introduced (Tiwari and Vaishya, 2004). \r\n\r\nMATERIALS AND METHODS\r\nThe experiment was conducted in the Department of Agronomy, College of Agriculture, and Gwalior\'s Research Farm (M.P.). The topography of the field was uniform, with adequate drainage. The experimental field\'s soil type was sandy clay loam. The experiment was conducted using a split-plot design (SPD), with each treatment being replicated three times. Tillage practices and chemical weed control strategies were both parts of the experiment. Three tillage systems (CT, ZT, MT) are combined with seven chemical weed control strategies (Solfosulfuron, Metsulfuron-Methyl, Clodinafop, Solfosulfuron+ Metsulfuron-Methyl, Clodinafop+ Metsulfuron-Methyl, Clodinafop+ Metsulfuron-Methyl, Clodinafop+ Herbicide was sprayed on weeds at the 4-5 foliage stage (30 DAS). Entirely other agronomic procedures were applied to each experimental unit in the same amount. The height of the plants and the number of Tillage were measured Plant height, spike/plant, ear length, grain weight, number of grain spikes, test weight, grain, straw, biological yield, harvest index, and other aspects must all be taken into account. Using the appropriate split-plot design approach, all of the acquired data was statistically evaluated. The treatment evaluations were carried out at a 5% level of significance.\r\nGrowth parameter \r\nPlant height (cm). At the 30th, 60th, 90th, and harvest stages, the height of the main branch of tagged plants was measured. With the use of a meter scale, the height of the plant was measured from the ground level to the tip of the topmost leaf before ear emergence and from the ground to the base of the ear after ear emergence, and the average plant height was reported in centimeters.\r\nYield attributes characters:\r\nNumber of spikes/m2. They were counted before harvesting from randomly marked 1m2 area in each plot of the treated by using quadrate with 1M area in length.\r\nSize of the ear (cm). From the base of the inflorescence to the top of the last spikelet, the ear was measured in centimeters.\r\nMass of Grain/ear. Five spikes were chosen at random from each plot, and the number of filled grains in each spike was counted, followed by the average number of grains per spike.\r\nAmount of grains per spike. They were counted after the primary shoot spikes of randomly selected plants were threshed.\r\nWeight of 1000 grains. The weight (g) of 1000 grains was calculated by counting and weighing 1000 grains from the net plot area.\r\nGrain yield (kg/ha). The harvest from net plots was threshed, and the grains were weighed. The yield in kilograms plot-1 was normalized to 12 percent moisture and then converted to kg ha-1 using the appropriate factor.\r\nStraw yield (kg/ha). After sun drying for 5-6 days, the dry weight of straw gathered from the net plot was measured and converted to kg ha-1 using the appropriate factor.\r\nBiological yield (kg/ha). Each net plot\'s output, excluding root mass, was sundried for 5- 6 days after harvest and weighed to determine biological yield (grains+ straw) per plot, which was then converted into q ha-1 using the appropriate factor.\r\nHarvest index (%). The harvest index is a percentage that represents the ratio of economic (grain) yield to total biological (grain + straw) yield. It calculates the dry matter partitioning between grain and straw. It was estimated for each treatment using the following formula proposed by Donald and Hamblin (1976):\r\n Wheat grain (NPK) content studies. At the time of crop harvesting, a sample of seeds and plants (excluding roots) was selected from each plot and dried in an oven until the weight was constant. The materials were then pulverized into a fine powder using a mortar and pestle. Following that, the nitrogen, phosphorus, and potassium contents of these samples were determined using Nessler’s reagent colorimetric method (Jackson, 1967), Ammonium vanadomolybdo phosphoric acid yellow color method (Jackson, 1973), and flame photometer method (Khanna et al., 1971), respectively. The contents of N, P, and K in grain were recorded treatment by treatment.\r\nRESULTS AND DISCUSSION\r\nPlant height at 30 DAS. The data in Table 1 reveals that both tillage and chemical weed management strategies had a substantial impact on plant height at 30 days after sowing. T3 (conventional tillage) had the highest plant height (21.46cm and 22.90cm in 2019-20 and 2020-21, respectively), followed by zero tillage and minimum tillage. The maximum plant height was observed in conventional tillage T3 (22.18cm), followed by zero tillage and minimum tillage, according to the average of the two-year experiment.\r\nDuring the evaluation of plant height on different weed control practices in the subplot, the highest plant height was recorded in treatment two hands weeding (30&60DAS) W6 weed control practices (21.68cm and 22.57cm in 2019-20 and 2020-21, respectively), while the lowest plant height was recorded in treatment weedy check W7 weed control practices (21.68cm and 22.57cm in 2019-20 and 2020-21, respectively) (19.49cm in 2019-20 and 21.07cm in 2020-21). The maximum plant height was likewise observed in treatment two hands weeding (30&60DAS) W6 (22.13cm) weed control methods, followed by treatment W1 (21.45cm), W4 (21.63cm), and W5 (21.88cm), while the smallest plant height was recorded in the treatment weedy check W7 (21.88cm) (20.28cm). In both years, the interaction was non-significant, and the results were pooled as well.\r\nThe plant height at 60 DAS. Both of the parameters, tillage and weed management strategies, had a substantial impact on plant height at 60 DAS. Conventional tillage T3 had the highest plant height (52.06cm and 53.99cm in 2019-21 and 2020-21, respectively), followed by minimum tillage and zero tillage. The maximum plant height was observed in conventional tillage T3 (53.03cm), followed by minimum tillage and zero tillage, according to the average of the two-year experiment.\r\nThe highest plant height was reported in treatment two hands weeding (30&60DAS) W6 weed control practices (52.78cm and 54.70cm in 2019-20 and 2020-21, respectively) weed control practices, whereas the lowest plant height was recorded in treatment weedy check W7 weed control practices (49.52cm in 2019-20 and 50.48cm in 2020-21). The maximum plant height was also observed in the treatment two hands weeding (30&60DAS) W6 (53.74cm) weed control methods, followed by the treatment W4 (52.60cm) and W5 (52.72cm), while the lowest plant height was recorded in the treatment weedy check W7 (52.72cm) (50.00cm). In both years, the interaction was non-significant, and the results were pooled as well.\r\nThe plant height at 90 DAS. The plant height at 90 DAS was significantly influenced by both tillage and weed control practices. The maximum plant height was measured in conventional tillage T3 (83.30cm and 84.79cm in 2019-20 and 2020-21, respectively), followed by minimum and zero tillage. The average of the two-year experiment also shows that conventional tillage T3 (84.04cm) produced the highest plant height, followed by minimum tillage and zero tillage.\r\nDuring the evaluation of plant height on different weed control practices in the subplot, the highest plant height was recorded in treatments two hands weeding (30&60DAS) W6 (83.65cm in 2019-20) and W5 (85.27cm in 2020-21), while the lowest plant height was recorded in treatments weedy check W7 (80.89cm in 2019-20) and W1 (85.27cm in 2020-21). (81.59cm in 2020-21). The average effect of both years, as influenced by both factors, was calculated, and the highest plant height was also recorded in the treatment two hands weeding (30&60DAS) W6 (84.35cm) weed control practices, followed by the treatments W4 (83.83cm) and W5 (84.26cm), while the minimum plant height was recorded in the treatment weedy check W7 (84.26cm) (81.76cm). In both cases, the interaction was non-significant.\r\nThe plant height at maturity. The plant height at maturity was influenced by both tillage and weed control practices. The maximum plant height was measured in conventional tillage T3 (85.50cm in 2019-20 and 87.18cm in 2020-21), followed by minimum tillage and zero tillage. The average of the two-year experiment also shows that conventional tillage T3 (86.34cm) produced the highest plant height, followed by minimum tillage and zero tillage. In both the year and average data, the CD was non-significant.\r\n During the evaluation of the plant height on different weed control practices in the subplot, the highest plant height was recorded in treatment two hands weeding (30&60DAS) W6 (86.20cm and 87.44cm in 2019-20 and 2020-21 respectively) weed control practices while the minimum plant height was recorded in treatment weedy check W7 (83.68cm in 2019-20 and 83.82 in 2020-21). (83.68cm in 2019-20 and 83.82 in 2020-21). The average data of both years was calculated as influenced by both factors, and the highest plant height was recorded in the treatment two hand weeding (30&60DAS) W6 (86.82cm) weed control practices, while the lowest plant height was recorded in the Treatment weedy check W7 weed control practices (83.75cm). The critical difference was determined to be non-significant in both years and was pooled. The interaction effect of both factors was non-significant.\r\nPlant height. Plant height is a measure of growth. A higher plant height indicates healthy plant growth. Plant height was measured at various growth intervals, including 30 DAS, 60 DAS, 90 DAS, and maturity. The mean data of plant height was discussed in this section\r\nThe average of the two-year experiment shows that plant height was continuously increased from the initial growth stage to harvest, with maximum plant height recorded in conventional tillage at 30, 60, 90, and at harvest, followed by zero tillage and minimum tillage. Conventional tillage performed well in all growth stages here. During the evaluation of different weed control practices for plant height as influenced by both factors, the highest plant height was recorded in treatment two hands weeding (30&60DAS) W6 at 30, 60, 90, and at harvest. The difference in plant height could be due to a positive response to treatment variation. Different types of tillage give an impact on plant height and different weed control practices also show variation. The carefully finding are Pradhan and Chakraborti (2010); Kaur et al. (2014); Kumar et al. (2014); Pal et al. (2016); Singh et al. (2017).\r\nNumber of spike/m2. The data in Table 2 show that the number of spikes was significantly different depending on both factors. The highest number of spikes were recorded in zero tillage T1 (310.10/m2 in 2019 - 20 and 317.81/m2 in 2020-21), followed by minimum tillage and conventional tillage. The two-year experiment\'s average data also shows that the highest number of spikes were recorded in zero tillage T1 (313.95/m2), followed by minimum tillage and conventional tillage. Treatment two hands weeding (30&60DAS) W6 had the highest number of spikes (339.44/m2 and 352.22/m2 in 2019-20 and 2020-21, respectively) weed control practices, while treatment weedy check W7 had the lowest number of spikes (261.11/ m2 and 271.78/ m2 in 2019-20 and 2020-21, respectively). The calculation of the pooled data, as influenced by both factors, and the highest number of spikes were also recorded in the treatment two hand weeding (30&60DAS) W6 (345.83/m2) weed control practices, while the lowest number of spikes were recorded in the treatment weedy check W7 (266.44/m2) weed control practices. The interaction was non-significant in both years and when the data were pooled.\r\nLength of the spike (cm). The data in Table 2 show that the length of the spike differed significantly depending on both factors. The maximum spike length was measured in zero tillage T1 (9.72cm and 8.87cm in 2019-20 and 2020-21, respectively), followed by minimum tillage and conventional tillage. The two-year experiment\'s average data also shows that the maximum length of the spike was recorded in zero tillage T1 (9.29cm), followed by minimum tillage and conventional tillage.\r\nThe calculation of the pooled data, as influenced by both factors, and the longest spike length were also recorded in the treatment two hand weeding (30&60DAS) W6 (10.32cm) weed control practices, followed by the treatment w5 (9.87cm), while the shortest spike length was recorded in the treatment weedy check W7 (6.85cm). The interaction was non-significant in both years and when the data were pooled.\r\nWeight of grain (g)/ear. The data in Table 2 show that the weight of grain/ear differed significantly depending on both factors. The maximum weight of grain/ear was recorded in zero tillage T1 (1.63g and 1.61g in 2019-20 and 2020-21, respectively), followed by minimum tillage and conventional tillage. The average data from the two-year experiment also shows that the maximum weight of grain/ear was recorded in zero tillage T1 (1.62g), followed by minimum tillage and conventional tillage. \r\nThe highest weight of grain/ear was recorded in treatment two hands weeding (30&60DAS) W6 (1.72g and 1.68g in 2019-20 and 2020-21, respectively) weed control practices, while the lowest weight of grain/ear was recorded in treatment weedy check W7 (1.72g and 1.68g in 2019-20 and 2020-21, respectively) weed control practices (1.32g and 1.31g in 2019-20 and 2020-21 respectively). The calculation of the pooled data, as influenced by both factors, and the highest weight of grain/ear were also recorded in the treatment two hand weeding (30&60DAS) W6 (1.70g) weed control practices, while the lowest weight of grain/ear was recorded in the treatment weedy check W7 weed control practices (1.32g). The interaction was non-significant in both years and when the data were pooled.\r\nNumber of grain/ears. According to the data in Table 3, the number of grain/ears was significantly different by \r\nboth factors. Zero tillage T1 yielded the most grain/ears (40.40 and 39.45 in 2019-20 and 2020-21, respectively), followed by minimum tillage and conventional tillage. The two-year experiment\'s average data also shows that the maximum number of grain/ears was recorded in zero tillage T1 (39.92), followed by minimum tillage and conventional tillage. \r\nThe highest number of grain/ears was significantly recorded in treatment two hands weeding (30&60DAS) W6 (41.43 and 40.33 in 2019-20 and 2020-21, respectively) weed control practices, while the lowest number of grain/ears was recorded in treatment weedy check W7 (41.43 and 40.33 in 2019-20 and 2020-21, respectively) weed control practices (37.20 and 36.17 in 2019-20 and 2020-21 respectively). The calculation of the pooled data was influenced by both factors, and the highest number of grain/ears was recorded in the treatment two hand weeding (30&60 DAS) W6 (40.88) weed control practices, followed by the treatment W5 (40.23), while the lowest number of grain/ears was recorded in the treatment weedy check W7 (36.68). The interaction was non-significant in both years and when the data were pooled.\r\nTest weight (g). The data presented in Table 3 shows that the test weight was significantly different by both of the factors. The maximum test weight was significantly recorded in zero tillage T1 (40.38g and 40.84g in 2019-20 and 2020-21 respectively) followed by the minimum tillage and conventional tillage. The average data of the two-year experiment also shows that the maximum test weight was recorded in zero tillage T1 (40.61g) followed by the minimum tillage and conventional tillage.\r\nDuring the working on weed control practices, the highest test weight was significantly recorded in treatment two hands weeding (30&60DAS) W6 (41.57g and 41.71g in 2019-20 and 2020-21 respectively) weed control practices while the minimum test weight was recorded in treatment weedy check W7 (35.49g and 36.25g in 2019-20 and 2020-21 respectively ). The calculation of the pooled data, as influenced by both factors and the highest test weight was significantly also recorded in the treatment two hand weeding (30&60DAS) W6 (41.64g) weed control practices followed by the treatment W5 (40.67g) while the minimum test weight was recorded in the treatment weedy check W7 (35.87g). The interaction was non-significant in both of the years and pooled also.\r\nYield attributing characters. Both factors showed a significant variation in yield attributing character. This chapter recorded yield-related characteristics such as the number of spikes, the length of the spike, the weight of grain per ear, the number of grains per ear, and the test weight.\r\nThe average data from the two-year experiment also shows that the maximum number of spikes, spike length, grain weight per ear, number of grains per ear, and test weight were all recorded in zero tillage T1, followed by minimum tillage and conventional tillage. During the weed control practices, the highest number of spikes, length of the spike, the weight of grain per ear, number of grains per ear, and test weight were also recorded in the treatment two hands weeding (30&60DAS) W6 weed control practices, while the lowest number of spikes was recorded in the treatment weedy check W7 This also might be due to the positive response of the treatment variation for yield parameters.\r\nThe closely finding are Brar et al. (2010); Bharat et al. \r\n(2012); Katara et al. (2012); Yadav et al. (2012); Kumar et al. (2013); Rana et al. (2014); Kaur et al. (2018)\r\nNitrogen content in grain (%) harvest. Table 3 contains the data, and Fig. 1 depicts it graphically. Both tillage and weed control practices had a significant impact on the nitrogen content of grain at harvest. Zero tillage T1 had the highest nitrogen content in grain (2.254 percent and 2.225 percent in 2019-20 and 2020-21, respectively), followed by minimum tillage and conventional tillage. The two-year average also reveals that the maximum nitrogen content in grain was recorded in zero tillage T1 (2.240 percent), followed by minimum tillage and conventional tillage. The highest nitrogen content in grain was recorded in treatment two hands weeding (30&60DAS) W6 (2.300 percent and 2.279 percent in 2019-20 and 2020-21, respectively) weed control practices, while the lowest nitrogen content in grain was recorded in treatment weedy check W7 (2.300 percent and 2.279 percent in 2019-20 and 2020-21, respectively) weed control practices (2.068 percent and 2.035 percent in 2019-20 and 2020-21 respectively). The calculation of the pooled data, as influenced by both factors, and the highest nitrogen content in grain were also recorded in the treatment two hands weeding (30&60DAS) W6 (2.290 percent) weed control practices, followed by treatment W1 (2.225 percent), W4 (2.246 percent), and W5 (2.263 percent), while the lowest nitrogen content in grain was recorded in the treatment weedy check W7 (2.263 percent) (2.052 percent). The interaction was non-significant in both years, and it was also non-significant when the data were pooled.\r\nPhosphorus Content in grain (%) harvest. Table 3 contains the data, and Fig. 1 depicts it graphically. Both tillage and weed control practices had a significant impact on the phosphorus content of grain at harvest. Zero tillage T1 had the highest phosphorus content in grain (0.377 percent and 0.388 percent in 2019-20 and 2020-21, respectively), followed by minimum tillage and conventional tillage. The average of the two-year experiment also shows that zero tillage T1 (0.383 percent) had the highest phosphorus content in grain, followed by minimum tillage and conventional tillage. The highest phosphorus content in grain was found in treatment two hands weeding (30&60DAS) W6 (0.403 percent and 0.413 percent in 2019-20 and 2020-21, respectively) weed control practices, while the lowest phosphorus content in grain was found in treatment weedy check W7 (0.403 percent and 0.413 percent in 2019-20 and 2020-21, respectively) weed control practices (0.289 percent and 0.301 percent in 2019-20 and 2020-21 respectively). The calculation of the pooled data, as influenced by both factors, and the highest phosphorus Content in grain was also recorded in the treatment two hands weeding (30&60DAS) W6 (0.408 percent) weed control practices, followed by treatment W5 (0.400 percent), and the lowest phosphorus Content in grain was recorded in the treatment weedy check W7 (0.400 percent) (0.295 percent). The interaction was non-significant in both years and when the data were pooled.\r\nPotassium content in grain (%) harvest. Table 3 contains the data, and figure 1 depicts it graphically. Both tillage and weed control practices had a significant impact on the potassium content of grain at harvest. Zero tillage T1 had the highest potassium content in grain (0.361 percent and 0.365 percent in 2019-20 and 2020-21, respectively), followed by minimum tillage and conventional tillage. \r\nThe average of the two-year experiment also shows that zero tillage T1 had the highest potassium content in grain (0.363 percent), followed by minimum tillage and conventional tillage. The highest potassium content in grain was found in treatment two hands weeding (30&60DAS) W6 (0.375 percent and 0.384 percent in 2019-20 and 2020-21, respectively) weed control practices, while the lowest potassium content in grain was found in treatment weedy check W7 (0.375 percent and 0.384 percent in 2019-20 and 2020-21, respectively) weed control practices (0.292 percent and 0.306 percent in 2019-20 and 2020-21 respectively). The calculation of the pooled data, as influenced by both factors, and the highest potassium content in grain were also recorded in the treatment two hand weeding (30&60DAS) W6 (0.380 percent) weed control practices, while the lowest potassium content in grain was recorded in the treatment weedy check W7 (0.380 percent) weed control practices (0.299 percent ). The interaction was non-significant in both years and when the data were pooled.\r\nThe data of the two-year experiment also shows that the maximum nitrogen, phosphorus, and potassium content in grain were recorded in zero tillage T1 followed by the minimum tillage and conventional tillage. During the working on the weed control practices, as influenced by both factors and the highest nitrogen, phosphorus, and potassium content in grain were also recorded in the treatment two hands weeding (30&60DAS) W6 weed control practices while the minimum nitrogen, phosphorus, and potassium content in grain were recorded in the treatment weedy check W7. The variation in nitrogen, phosphorus and potassium content in grain varied might be due to the different availability of N, P, and K in soil, and availability of N, P, and K in grain varied as per the absorbed by the plant. These outcomes are in agreement with Kavita et al. (2019); Patel et al. (2020).\r\nStraw yield (kg/ha). Table 4 displays the straw yield. Both factors, namely tillage and weed control practices, had a significant impact on straw yield. \r\nThe maximum straw yield was recorded in zero tillage T1 (7439kg/ha in 2019 and 6746kg/ha in 2020), followed by minimum tillage and conventional tillage.\r\nThe two-year average also shows that zero tillage produced the highest straw yield (7093kg/ha), followed by minimum tillage and conventional tillage.\r\nThe highest straw yield was recorded in treatment two hands weeding (30&60DAS) W6 weed control practices in both years (7734kg/ha and 7275kg/ha in 2019-20 and 2020-21, respectively) while the lowest straw yield was recorded in treatment weedy check W7 (6226kg/ha and 5762kg/ha in 2019-20 and 2020-21, respectively) weed control practices. The highest straw yield was recorded in the treatment two hands weeding (30&60DAS) W6 (7504kg/ha) weed control practices, followed by W5 (7329kg/ha) weed control practices, and the lowest straw yield was recorded in the treatment weedy check W7 (5994kg/ha) weed control practices. In both years and when the data were pooled, the interaction was non-significant.\r\nGrain (kg/ha). Both factors, namely tillage and weed control practices, had a significant impact on grain yield. The maximum grain yield was recorded in zero tillage T1 (4850kg/ha in 2019 and 4762kg/ha in 2020), followed by minimum tillage and conventional tillage. The two-year average also shows that zero tillage yielded the highest grain yield (4806kg/ha), followed by minimum tillage and conventional tillage.\r\nIn both years, the highest grain yield was recorded in treatment two hands weeding (30&60DAS) W6 (5173kg/ha and 5150 kg/ha in 2019-20 and 2020-21 \r\nrespectively) weed control practices, while the lowest grain yield was recorded in treatment weedy check W7 (3794kg/ha and 3793kg/ha in 2019-20 and 2020-21 respectively) weed control practices.\r\nThe highest grain yield was also recorded in the treatment two hand weeding (30&60DAS) W6 (5161kg/ha) weed control practices, followed by W5 (4999kg/ha), while the lowest grain yield was recorded in the treatment weedy check W7 (3793kg/ha) weed control practices. The interaction was non-significant in both years and when the data were pooled.\r\nBiological yield (kg/ha). Table 5 shows the biological yield (kg/ha). Both factors, namely tillage and weed control practices, had a significant impact on biological yield. The highest biological yield was recorded in zero tillage T1 (12202kg/ha in 2019-20 and 11266kg/ha in 2020-21), followed by minimum tillage and conventional tillage. The average of the two-year experiment also shows that zero tillage produced the highest biological yield (11734kg/ha), followed by minimum tillage and conventional tillage.\r\nThe highest biological yield was recorded in treatment two hands weeding (30&60DAS) W6 weed control practices in both years (12907kg/ha and 12325kg/ha in 2019-20 and 2020-21, respectively) while the lowest biological yield was recorded in treatment weedy check W7 (9983kg/ha and 9410kg/ha in 2019-20 and 2020-21, respectively) weed control practices. The highest biological yield was also recorded in the treatment two hand weeding (30&60DAS) W6 (12616kg/ha) weed control practices, followed by W5 (12281kg/ha), while the lowest biological yield was recorded in the treatment weedy check W7 (9697kg/ha) weed control practices. The interaction was non-significant in both years and when the data were pooled. \r\nHarvest index (kg/ha). Table 6 shows the harvest index (kg/ha). Both tillage and weed control practices had a significant influence on the harvest index. The maximum harvest index was recorded in zero tillage T1 (39.70kg/ha in 2019-20 and 40.47kg/ha in 2020-21), followed by minimum tillage and conventional tillage. The average of the two-year experiment also shows that zero tillage yielded the highest harvest index (40.08kg/ha), followed by minimum tillage and conventional tillage. \r\nIn both years, the highest harvest index was recorded in treatment sulfosulfuron (25g/ha) W1 (40.68kg/ha in 2019-20) and treatment two hand weeding (30&60DAS) W6 (41.01kg/ha in 2020-21), while the lowest harvest index was recorded in treatment weedy check W7 (38.03kg/ha and 39.26kg/ha in 2019-20 and 2020-21, respectively) weed control practices. The highest harvest index was also recorded in the treatment sulfosulfuron (25g/ha) W1 (40.74kg/ha) weed control practices, followed by W5 (40.30kg/ha), while the lowest harvest index was recorded in the treatment weedy check W7 (38.65kg/ha) weed control practices. The interaction was non-significant in both years and when the data were pooled.\r\nThe average data from the two-year experiment also shows that zero tillage T1 had the highest straw yield, grain yield (kg/ha), biological yield, harvest index, and protein yield, followed by minimum tillage and conventional tillage. During the weed control practices, the highest straw yield, grain yield (kg/ha), biological yield, and protein yield were recorded in the treatment two hands weeding (30&60DAS) W6, and the harvest index was found in the treatment sulfosulfuron (25g/ha) \r\nW1 weed control practices, while the lowest straw yield, grain yield (kg/ha), biological yield, and protein yield were recorded in the treatment weedy check W7The variation in yield parameters could be attributed to differences in treatments and the accumulation of photosynthates for the formation of and absorption of nutrients from the soil; all of these factors contributed to higher yield. These results are in arrangement with Mishra et al. (2010); Ahmed et al. (2010); Choudhary et al. (2011); Sharma et al.(2011); Katara et al. (2012); Kumar et al. (2013); Upasani et al. (2014); Sharma et al. (2015); Choudhary et al. (2017); Kaur et al. (2018).\r\n','P.K. Para, S.S. Kushwah, D.S. Sasode, Etka Joshi, B.K. Sharma and G. Malgaya (2022). Impact of Tillage and Chemical Weed Management Practices on Wheat Yield and Nutrient Uptake (Triticum aestivum L). Biological Forum – An International Journal, 14(1): 1726-1734.'),(4465,'123','Prevalence of Asymptomatic Plasmodium vivax and Plasmodium\r\nfalciparum Infections in Tribal Population of a Village in Gadchiroli\r\nDistrict of Maharashtra State, India','S.R. Karlekar, M.M. Deshpande and R.J. Andrew','8 DR ANDREW.pdf','',1,'The present investigation was undertaken to study the prevalence of asymptomatic malaria in the\r\ntribal village Khobramendha of Gadchiroli district in Maharashtra state. Out of a total of 210 samples collected,\r\nnine tested positive (4.28%) for asymptomatic malaria. Six were positive for P. falciparum (66.6%) and three for\r\nP. vivax (33.3%). Not a single case of mixed infection was detected. The male/female ratio was 2/1 for both\r\nP. vivax and P. falciparum. The average age of the positive individual was found to be 24.8 years. As far as\r\nasymptomatic malaria cases of Khobramendh village is concerned, it is female biased upto the age of 60, but\r\nlater on it is dominantly male biased (67%).','Asymptomatic malaria, Plasmodium, falciparum, vivax, Khobramendha, Gadchiroli, Maharashtra.','The present investigation was undertaken to study the prevalence of asymptomatic malaria in the\r\ntribal village Khobramendha of Gadchiroli district in Maharashtra state. Out of a total of 210 samples collected,\r\nnine tested positive (4.28%) for asymptomatic malaria. Six were positive for P. falciparum (66.6%) and three for\r\nP. vivax (33.3%). Not a single case of mixed infection was detected. The male/female ratio was 2/1 for both\r\nP. vivax and P. falciparum. The average age of the positive individual was found to be 24.8 years. As far as\r\nasymptomatic malaria cases of Khobramendh village is concerned, it is female biased upto the age of 60, but\r\nlater on it is dominantly male biased (67%).','The last two decades have seen an increasing level of\r\ninternational attention directed towards malaria. In 2000,\r\nthe Millennium Development Goals called for a reversal in\r\nthe incidence of this disease by 2015. Malaria affects 36%\r\nof the world population in 107 countries and territories\r\nsituated in the tropical and subtropical regions. Of the 2.5\r\nmillion reported cases in south East Asia, India alone\r\ncontributes about 70%. Currently 80.5% of the Indian\r\npopulation lives in Malaria risk areas (Dash et al., 2008)\r\nand around 85% of the total malaria cases are reported\r\nfrom the forested areas occupied by ethnic tribes of the\r\ncountry (Kumar et al., 2007).\r\nMalaria transmission depends on two primary factors.\r\nThese are location of mosquito breeding sites and clustering\r\nof human habitations where people serving as reservoirs\r\nof parasites for mosquito infection live. Previous successes\r\nin malaria control for example in India and Sri Lanka were\r\nprimarily attributed to the effects of residual insecticide\r\nspraying which severely reduced anopheline population\r\n(Vinetz and Gilman, 2002).\r\nAsymptomatic Plasmodium species infections are\r\nfrequently found in hyper endemic region of the world\r\n(Owusu-Agyei, et al., 2001; Eke et al., 2006). There is a\r\ngrowing interest in ascertaining the role of asymptomatic\r\nPlasmodium spp. Infection (Bottins et al., 1996) and studies\r\nhave confirmed that asymptomatic parasitaemia occurs in\r\nthe absence of intense transmission (Cucunuba, et al., 2008)\r\nand it persist inter-seasonally in places with seasonal\r\ntransmission (Babiker, 1998). Alves, et al., (2002) found\r\nthat asymptomatic parasitaemia in these patients are likely\r\nto represent a major mechanism of over seasoning of malaria\r\nparasite, for both Plasmodium falciparum and Plasmodium\r\nvivax (Vinetz and Gilman, 2002).\r\nStudies in malaria endemic areas of the world have\r\nshown high prevalence rate of asymptomatic malaria which\r\nprovides ready reservoirs of infection making control\r\nprogramme difficult to accomplish. Asymptomatic carriers\r\ndo not seek treatment for their infection and therefore\r\nconstitute a ready reservoir available for transmission by\r\nmosquitoes. There is a period when mosquito populations\r\nare at minimum and asymptomatic infections likely to\r\nbecome a refuge for the parasite population and the source\r\nof new infections when mosquito populations expand. A\r\nwell planned strategy is needed to study and provide\r\nevidence based information on the aspect of asymptomatic\r\nmalaria as it has a direct bearing on malaria treatment,\r\ntransmission dynamics and management to prevent mortality\r\n(Dash et al., 2008). Treatment of patient with asymptomatic\r\nparasitaemia is critical for the control of malaria endemic\r\nregion, as history has shown that after vector control efforts\r\nhave stopped, persist asymptomatic parasitaemia individual\r\nserved to infect the newly expanding anophelin population\r\n(Tikasingh, et al., 1980).\r\nIn recent years, the incidence of malaria in most of the\r\ndistricts of Maharashtra state has reduced but for the district\r\nof Gadchiroli. Dhiman et al., (2005) studied the persistence\r\nof malaria transmission at Gadchiroli and found that\r\ncompliance to fever radical treatment was not satisfactory\r\nand the quality of spray to control vector was\r\nunsatisfactory. Their findings emphasized the importance\r\nof health education to community and their involvement in\r\nmalaria control for achieving positive results. The Gadchiroli\r\ndistrict is mainly hilly forested area inhabited by the Gond\r\ntribal population. Since not much information on the burden\r\nof clinical asymptomatic malaria is available for India, the\r\npresent survey was undertaken to study the prevalence of\r\nasymptomatic malaria in the tribal village Khobramendha of\r\nGadchiroli District in Maharashtra State.\r\nBiological Forum – An International Journal, Forum — An International Journal, 4(11)(:1 4):2-1424(-21071(22)009) ISSN No. (Print) : 0975-1130\r\nISSN No. (Online) : 2249-3239\r\nKarlekar, Deshpande and Andrew 43\r\n(\r\nMATERIAL AND METHODS\r\nStudy Area : The study was carried out during the\r\nmonths of November- December, 2011 at the tribal village\r\nKhobramendha of Gadchiroli District in Maharashtra State.\r\nThis village is situated in the north-east of the district. The\r\ntotal population of this village is around 510. This region\r\nexperiences highly seasonal transmission of Plasmodium\r\nfalciparum, with peak transmission occur from August to\r\nDecember. The main vector species in this area are\r\nAnopheles culicifacies and Anopheles fluvialitis while\r\nAnopheles annularis being the secondary vector\r\n(NVBDCP). The village is situated in hilly area amongst\r\ndense forest adjoining Chhattisgad State. The occupation\r\nof villagers is mainly forest based work and farming. The\r\npaddy farming is totally rain dependant as there are neither\r\nirrigation facilities nor lake or river in this region.\r\nStudy Design : The study was carried out in three\r\nphases- Village survey, Blood sampling and Laboratory\r\nwork.\r\nVillage Survey : A census of whole village was\r\nperformed and a verbal questionnaire regarding the malaria\r\nsymptoms as :\r\n1. Are you suffering from fever, headache, body ache,\r\nnausea since last fortnight?\r\n2. Did you suffer from malaria within last one month?\r\n3. Are you undergoing any kind of medical treatment?\r\n4. This is a study regarding asymptomatic malaria cases\r\namong community. Do you mind giving your blood\r\nsample for this study ?\r\nWhen we found the answer “No” for all the four\r\nquestions, we selected the person for blood sampling.\r\nBlood Sampling : Thick and thin blood samples of\r\n210 peoples of different age, sex and economic conditions\r\nwere collected from 20/11/11 to 23/11/11.\r\nLaboratory work : Collected blood samples were\r\nstained according to the guideline of NVBDCP by\r\nprocedure of dehaemoglobinisation on same day of\r\ncollection, stained by JSB-I and JSB- II stain on 24th\r\nNovember 2011 and were examined for the detection of the\r\nmalaria parasite. The positive samples were cross checked\r\nto confirm the results.\r\nEthics : The study was carried out with the consent\r\nof the people of Khobramenda village by informing them\r\nabout the malaria detection. The detected positive cases of\r\nthe study were informed to the Government Health Worker\r\nof the same village for follow-up and treatment.\r\nRESULTS\r\nOut of a total of 210 samples collected, nine tested\r\npositive for asymptomatic malaria. Six were positive for P.\r\nfalciparum (66.6%) and three for P. vivax (33.3%). Not a\r\nsingle case of mixed infection was detected. The male/female\r\nratio was 2/1 for both P. vivax and P. falciparum. The\r\naverage age of the positive individual was found to be\r\n24.8 years. The age group of blood sample examined and found positive is given in Table. 1.','S.R. Karlekar, M.M. Deshpande and R.J. Andrew (2012). Prevalence of Asymptomatic Plasmodium vivax and Plasmodium falciparum Infections in Tribal Population of a Village in Gadchiroli District of Maharashtra State, India. Biological Forum – An International Journal, Forum — An International Journal, 4(11)(:1 4):2-142'),(4466,'112','Effect of Low Cost Fertigation on Flower Yield of Marigold and Tuberose Grown on the Bunds in the Rice based Cropping System','Gaurav Sharma*, L.K. Shrivastava and Neeraj Shukla','304 Effect of Low Cost Fertigation on Flower Yield of Marigold and Tuberose Grown on the Bunds in the Rice based Cropping System Gaurav Sharma.pdf','',1,'Large area of field bunds remains unused in the areas dominated with rice cultivation. These available spaces in the form of bund can be utilized for additional income besides the main crop by planting flower crops. An investigation was carried out to develop an economically suitable model for utilization of field bunds through flower cultivation. The growth, flowering parameters and yield of African marigold and tuberose cultivated on bunds under low cost drip system were assessed for profitability. A modified low cost drip irrigation system recommended by Precision Farming Development Centre, Raipur was used for drip irrigation and fertigation. The flower crops, African marigold and Tuberose were tested at two different plant spacing (30 × 30cm and 40 × 30cm) on one metre wide bund with different methods of irrigation and fertilizer application in factorial RBD design with three replications. Maximum duration of flowering, flower diameter, number of flowers and flower yield per plant in African marigold was recorded under drip fertigation with WSF @ 100% RDF application at plant spacing of 40 × 30cm. In tuberose, spike length, number of florets per spike and number of spikes per plant was observed with drip fertigation with WSF @ 100% RDF application at plant spacing of 30 × 30cm. However, maximum gross returns, net returns as well as highest B:C ratio in both the crops was obtained from drip fertigation with WSF @ 100% RDF application at plant spacing of 30 × 30cm. Therefore, either African marigold or tuberose may be planted on bunds at a plant spacing of 30 × 30cm along with fertigation (WSF @ 100% RDF) for additional income. ','Bund, flower, fertigation, low-cost drip, marigold, rice based cropping, tuberose','On the basis of investigation, interaction effect of drip fertigation with WSF @ 100% RDF at 40×30 cm plant spacing was found to be superior for growth, flowering parameters and yield in case of marigold. However, higher B:C ratio was obtained at lesser plant spacing of 30×30 cm due to more number of plants accommodated at lesser plant spacing. In tuberose, application of drip fertigation with WSF @ 100% RDF at plant spacing of 30×30 cm resulted in higher growth, yield parameters and B:C ratio. Therefore, it may be inferred that for additional income, either marigold or tuberose can be taken on bund planting at the spacing of 30×30 cm under low cost fertigation with WSF @ 100% RDF.','INTRODUCTION\r\nField bunds occupy a sizeable proportion of the paddy cultivated area in the whole world including India where it is one of the principal crops. Many of the Indian states viz., Uttar Pradesh, Bihar, West Bengal, Punjab, Chhattisgarh, Andhra Pradesh, Tamil Nadu, Odisha, Assam, Karnataka are predominantly rice growing states having a large area under rice cultivation. In Chhattisgarh alone, rice area under wide bunds was about 2.5 lakh hectare in 2007 (Anon., 2007). These rice fields having wide bunds which remain unutilized are of concern as it comes out to be a big area gone as wasteland when seen cumulatively. Though bunds play an important role in retaining moisture on sloped ground and acts as demarcation between adjoining fields, but it also serves as source of weed propagules if poorly managed (Rao et al., 2017). Various studies have revealed that bund planting of agroforestry trees is the traditional practice adopted by the farmers on these bunds. Apart from the agroforestry system, introduction of vegetation with high profit is necessary for field bund (Yan et al., 2021). Though, a lot of impetus had been given on growing pulses on these bunds in India but it was mostly to increase the area and production of pulses. In fact, well-managed bunds can provide source of additional income through the production of cash crops. For better and higher economic returns, floricultural crops having high profitability could be an option to be explored as these are low volume high value crops with higher returns per unit area (Sharma and Singh, 2007). Flower planting is already promoted as a pest management strategy in irrigated rice field bunds.\r\nIn the past one and a half decade, floriculture has gained momentum and popularity in the Asian countries in general and India in particular. There has been a considerable increase in the area as well as production of flower crops in this state. The area under flower crops got almost tripled from 106000 ha during 2001-02 to 339000 ha during 2018-19 (Anon., 2021). Both marigold and tuberose flower crops are grown in a large scale for commercial cultivation in India. African marigold (Tagetes erecta L.) is in demand round the year for its loose flowers used in garlands and decorations (Sahu et al., 2019) and has also been reported to be grown in summer rice fallows (Suvija et al., 2019). Similarly, tuberose (Polianthes tuberosa L.) grown for its cut spikes, loose flowers and essential oils are in high demand in the domestic market (Singh et al., 2021). There lies an opportunity of utilizing the bund by planting it with highly profitable flower crops which are popularly called as low volume high value cash crops.\r\nDrip irrigation has the potential to save considerable irrigation water, labour and time. Also, surface run-off and soil evaporation is reduced considerably along with lesser weed growth in drip as compared to flood irrigation (Kaur and Brar, 2016). Fertigation has been found to be the most economical fertilizer application technique for most of the flower crops resulting in increased yield and enhanced quality (Divya et al., 2018). It not only enhances the fertilizer use efficiency but also helps in economizing the use of water and fertilizers and thereby reduces the cost of cultivation by reducing the cost of water, fertilizers, labour and energy (Khan et al., 1997). These qualities are very much desired when planting is to be done on hitherto un-utilized bund as the major concentration is for the main field/major crop. Further, keeping in view the meagre resources and considering the secondary importance of bund cultivation, a low cost fertigation system can be feasible from economical point of view. Moreover, the plant spacing has also an important role to play in overall plant growth and yield and has been reported to affect the flower yield in marigold and tuberose as well (Khalaj et al., 2012; Rolaniya et al., 2017). Therefore, besides proper water and nutrient management, there is also a need to work out optimum planting distance for bund cultivation under low cost fertigation system for higher productivity, as the plant spacing has been reported to influence the yield.\r\nOnly a few studies have examined the full impact of alternative bund management practices in rice cropping systems. If crops of high economic and marketing values are successfully grown on the field bund, the large area of wasteland bund may be used properly with optimum resource utilization. Keeping these points in view and with the objective of conserving water, enhancing the nutrient utilization, labour efficiency and additional income from unutilized bunds, this experiment was conducted for suggesting a flower based farming model.\r\nMATERIALS AND METHODS\r\nThe present investigation was carried out on the bunds of rice field of the All India Coordinated Research Project-Soil test crop response, Indira Gandhi Krishi Vishwavidyala, Raipur, Chhattisgarh. The experiment consisted of treatments comprising of different methods of irrigation alongwith fertilizer application and planting distance in Factorial Randomized Block Design (FRBD) with three replications. The two factors tested comprised of irrigation and fertilizer application methods (drip irrigation, surface flood irrigation, fertigation and soil application of fertilizer) along with plant spacing (30×30cm and 40×30cm) in African marigold and tuberose. African marigold var. Pusa Narangi Gainda and Tuberose var. Prajwal were taken as test varieties planted in three rows. Bulbs of tuberose was planted in June 2018 which continued with intermittent flowering round the year whereas, rooted cuttings of African marigold were planted twice, both in kharif (June 2018) and rabi season (November 2018) on 50m2 bund (50m length and 1m width). At a spacing of 30×30cm, 483 plants were accommodated/50m2 whereas at a spacing of 40×30 cm, 360 plants were accommodated /50m2.\r\nA low cost drip irrigation system recommended by Precision Farming Development Centre (PFDC), Indira Gandhi Agricultural University, Raipur was used for irrigation and fertigation. The low cost drip irrigation system consisted of two buckets of 20 litres which were joined together by ‘T’; the buckets were supported on bamboo sticks of 5m height. The ‘T’ was connected to lateral pipe having inbuilt dripper at spacing of 30 cm with discharge of 2.2 lph, placed between two rows of crops. Water to the buckets was provided through a pipe from the source of water supply used for irrigating the main field. 120 litres of water was utilized every week for irrigating 50m2. Soil application of recommended dose of fertilizer (RDF) @ 90:90:75 kg/ha NPK(0.98kg Urea, 2.81kg SSP and 0.62kg MOP/50m2) for marigold and 200:200:200 kg/ha NPK(2.17kg Urea, 6.25kg SSP and 1.67kg MOP/50m2) for tuberose was done. For fertigation, water soluble fertilizer (WSF) 19:19:19 was used. Drip fertigation with WSF @ 100% RDF was applied @ 55g for tuberose and @ 24.5g for marigoldat fortnightly interval through drip irrigation for 50m2.Observations were recorded on five randomly selected plants from each treatment. The data were recorded on growth, flowering attributes and yield and were subjected to statistical analysis using SPSS statistical software (SPSS Inc., USA).\r\nRESULTS AND DISCUSSION\r\nEffect of different methods of irrigation and fertilizer application in marigold: Drip fertigation with WSF @ 100% RDF had significantly superior effect as compared to other treatments for plant height (71.60cm) as evident from the data of kharif and rabi season in the Table 1. Maximum plant spread (46.43cm) was recorded under drip fertigation with WSF @ 100% RDF but was statistically similar to the treatment drip irrigation with soil application of RDF (44.36cm). In case of flowering parameters, maximum duration of flowering (65.33 days) was found under drip fertigation with WSF @ 100% RDF which was significantly superior over all the other methods. Maximum flower diameter (4.82cm) was also recorded with drip fertigation with WSF @ 100% RDF which however, was at par with the treatment drip irrigation + soil application of RDF (4.67cm). Highest number of flowers/plant (48.96) and maximum flower yield/plant (288.58g) was recorded under drip fertigation with WSF @ 100% RDF application which was significantly superior over all the other treatments (Table 1). Due to application of 100% RDF through fertigation directly around the root system there may have been no leaching losses and availability of optimum soil moisture also contributed in better utilization of applied nutrients (Shedeed et al., 2007). Highest yield and yield attributes with 100% RDF through water soluble fertilizers has also been observed in marigold. These results are in conformity with the findings of other researchers who also reported highest nutrient use efficiency in 100% recommended fertigation dose though drip irrigation in marigold (Srinivas et al., 2018).\r\nEffect of plant spacing in marigold: Plant spacing significantly affected the vegetative and flowering parameters except for plant spread. Significantly maximum plant height (67.88cm) was recorded at a plant spacing of 30×30cm (Table 1). Tall plant height with closer spacing has also been observed in other flower crops with one of the reason that plant has lesser area for lateral growth (Ahmad et al., 2019). However, maximum flowering duration (59.40 days), flower diameter (4.77cm), number of flowers/plant (41.33) and flower yield/plant (203.84g) was recorded at plant spacing of 40×30cm. Higher individual plant yield at wider spacing may be due to for nutrients, light and moisture thereby increases the flowering attributes. The increase in floral characters might be due to the availability of more space resulting in less competition among the plants which provided better penetration of light, more aeration and ultimately increased photosynthetic activity resulting into higher yield. Similar results have been obtained in marigold which also indicated that the wider spacing of 40x30 cm resulted in highest flower yield per plant whereas, the closer spacing resulted in maximum plant height (Jat, 2006; Naik et al., 2019). Optimum plant spacing enhances better utilization of spaces, high yield, and quality production (Ara et al., 2007).\r\nInteraction effect of different methods of irrigation and fertilizer application with plant spacing in marigold: The interaction effect of methods of irrigation and fertilizer application with plant spacing was found to be significantly different for all the parameters under investigation except for plant spread. In case of plant height, maximum plant height (73.06cm) was recorded under drip fertigation with WSF @ 100% RDF at plant spacing of 30×30cm followed by drip irrigation + soil application of RDF at plant spacing of 30x30cm (72.26cm) and drip fertigation with WSF @ 100% RDF at 40×30cm (70.93cm), however all being statistically equal (Table 1). Longest flowering duration (67 days) was noted in the treatment drip fertigation with WSF @ 100% RDF at 40 × 30cm plant spacing, which was at par with drip fertigation with WSF @ 100% RDF at plant spacing of 30×30cm (60 days) and also drip irrigation + soil application of RDF at 40×30cm (59 days). Maximum flower diameter (5.32cm) was recorded in the treatment drip fertigation with WSF @ 100% RDF with 40×30cm plant spacing, followed by drip irrigation + soil application of RDF at 40×30cm spacing (5.28cm) and drip fertigation with WSF @ 100% RDF at 30×30cm (4.96cm), all having at par effect (Table 1). Significantly highest number of flowers/plant (54.60) and flower yield/plant (299.73g) was recorded in the treatment drip fertigation with WSF @ 100% RDF at 40×30cm plant spacing which was superior over all other treatments. \r\nSignificantly higher flower yield in marigold associated with wider spacing and water soluble fertilizers at 100% RDF supplied through fertigation have also been reported earlier by Chaitra and Gopinath (2018). It has been opined that higher yield under fertigation may be due to increased nutrient uptake due to frequent and direct application of water soluble fertilizers in the root zone which led to minimum leaching losses (Sumangala et al., 2018). Further, the increase in nutrient uptake due to conducive environment of the growing media created by maintaining high moisture level at root zone, might have increased the solubility of these nutrients and their uptake thereby enhancing the yield parameters.\r\nEffect of different methods of irrigation and fertilizer application in tuberose: Effect of irrigation and fertilizer application method significantly affected the plant spread in tuberose. Significantly maximum plant spread (29.36 cm) was recorded due to the effect of drip fertigation with WSF @ 100% RDF over all the other methods (Table 2). Similarly, the effect of drip fertigation with WSF @ 100% RDF was found to be significantly superior over other methods for spike length (85.11cm) and number of florets/spike (53.50). Maximum number of spikes per plant (8.00) was also recorded with drip fertigation with WSF @ 100% RDF which however, was found to be at par with the application drip irrigation + soil application of RDF. The results are in line with the of findings of other researchers who in tuberose observed that 100% water soluble fertilizers applied through drip fertigation system significantly increased the plant growth (Kabariel and Kannan, 2015). Fertigation at frequent interval of time in small quantities might have increased the fertilizer use efficiency and nutrient uptake preventing the loss of nutrients by leaching, erosion as well as by weeds. Effective and efficient utilization of water and nutrients by the plants may have resulted in better plant growth (Kabariel and Kannan,2015). Similarly, it has been reported that fertigation with water soluble fertilizers at 125% of recommended dose of fertilizers recorded higher vegetative growth whereas, 75% of RDF using WSF showed better yield characters and 100% RDF using WSF resulted in maximum vase life in tuberose (Kumari et al., 2020).\r\nInteraction effect of different methods of irrigation and fertilizer application and plant spacing in tuberose: The interaction effect of methods of irrigation and fertilizer application with plant spacing significantly influenced the vegetative and flowering parameters in tuberose (Table 2), though the effect of spacing on tuberose yield was found to be non-significant. Significant interaction effect was found in plant spread, with maximum plant spread (30.10cm) recorded with drip fertigation with WSF @ 100% RDF at 40×30cm plant spacing which was at par with drip fertigation with WSF @ 100% RDF at 30×30cm (29.53cm) and treatment surface flood irrigation + soil \r\napplication of RDF at 40×30cm (28.63cm). The interaction effect was found to be significantly different for flowering parameters as well. Maximum spike length (88.53cm) was recorded with drip fertigation with WSF @ 100% RDF at 30×30cm which was statistically equal with drip fertigation with WSF @ 100% RDF at 40×30cm (85.50cm) and drip irrigation + soil application of RDF at 30×30cm (85.36cm). As evident from Table 2, similar trend was observed for number of florets/spike with maximum number (54.33) recorded with drip fertigation with WSF @ 100% RDF at 30×30 cm followed by drip fertigation with WSF @ 100% RDF at 40×30cm (53.66) and drip irrigation + soil application of RDF at 30×30cm (52.33),all being at par with each other. In case of number of spikes/plant, maximum number (8.33) was noted under drip fertigation with WSF @ 100% RDF at 30×30cm which was found to be at par with drip fertigation with WSF @ 100% RDF at 40×30cm (8.00) and drip irrigation + soil application of RDF at 30×30cm (8.00). The higher yield as compared to normal fertilizer may be due to proper distribution and availability of nutrients in the in soil with fertigation whereas soil application generally tends to cause uneven distribution of fertilizers in the root zone (Shedeed et al., 2007). The results are in conformity with the findings reported earlier in tuberose (Shashidhar et al., 2008; Desai and Thirumala, 2015).\r\nEconomic analysis: All combinations of drip irrigation and fertigation recorded higher net returns and B:C ratio than control in both crops (Table 3 and 4). In marigold, interaction of drip fertigation with WSF @ 100% RDF at 30×30 cm plant spacing recorded highest gross returns of INR (Indian Rupee) 13070/50m2 bund and net returns of INR 7270/50m2 bund as well as highest B:C ratio of 1.25 (Table 3) which was closely followed by combination of drip fertigation with WSF @ 100% RDF at 40×30 cm plant spacing which registered gross returns (INR11903/50m2) bund and net returns (INR6343/50m2) bund and B:C ratio of 1.14. Though, highest yield/plant was recorded in the treatment drip fertigation with WSF @ 100% RDF at 40×30 cm plant spacing, but may be due to more number of plants accommodated in lesser spacing of 30x30 cm, the treatment drip fertigation with WSF @ 100% RDF at 30×30 cm plant spacing, was found to have the highest B:C ratio. Similarly, in case of tuberose (Table 4), interaction of drip fertigation with WSF @ 100% RDF at 30×30 cm plant spacing recorded highest gross returns of INR13041/50m2 bund, net returns of INR 7316/50m2 bund and highest B:C ratio of 1.28. Comparable results were also obtained in vegetable crops wherein, it was opined that the magnitude of yield is influenced by plant population and its distribution pattern, which are important for getting maximum economic yield from a given field area (Singh and Saimbhi, 1998).\r\n','Gaurav Sharma, L.K. Shrivastava and Neeraj Shukla (2022). Effect of Low Cost Fertigation on Flower Yield of Marigold and Tuberose Grown on the Bunds in the Rice based Cropping System. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 14(1): 1735-1740.'),(4467,'123','Fixed Oil Composition, Polyphenols and Phospholipids\r\nof Finger Millet [Eleusine coracana (L.) Gaertn]','Kiran Poonia*, Sonal Chavan* and M. Daniel*','9 M DANEIL.pdf','',1,'Not much is known on the fixed oil composition, polyphenols, phospholipids of finger millet\r\n[Ragi–Eleusine coracana (L.) Gaertn], a tropical cereal crop of India and Africa. The oil content of this grain is\r\nfound to be 0.74% consisting of oleic acid (47.17%), linoleic acid (24.78%) and palmitic acid (23.06%). The\r\nflavonol present was quercetin and cyanidin was the anthocyanidin present. Vanillic, syringic, ferulic and caffeic\r\nacids were the phenolic acids present. The total phenolics amounted to 3.2 mg/gm. The total antioxidant potential\r\nwas Ic50 10.6 + 0.03 mg/ml. in terms of ascorbic acid and gallotannin. The phospholipids present in Ragi was\r\n0.36% consisting of lecithins, cephalins and galactolipids. The health benefits of all these compounds are\r\nhighlighted.','Finger millet, Eleusine coracana, quercetin, cyanidin, phospholipids, fixed oil, linoleic acid, oleic acid, palmitic acid, phenolic acids, antioxidant potential.','Not much is known on the fixed oil composition, polyphenols, phospholipids of finger millet\r\n[Ragi–Eleusine coracana (L.) Gaertn], a tropical cereal crop of India and Africa. The oil content of this grain is\r\nfound to be 0.74% consisting of oleic acid (47.17%), linoleic acid (24.78%) and palmitic acid (23.06%). The\r\nflavonol present was quercetin and cyanidin was the anthocyanidin present. Vanillic, syringic, ferulic and caffeic\r\nacids were the phenolic acids present. The total phenolics amounted to 3.2 mg/gm. The total antioxidant potential\r\nwas Ic50 10.6 + 0.03 mg/ml. in terms of ascorbic acid and gallotannin. The phospholipids present in Ragi was\r\n0.36% consisting of lecithins, cephalins and galactolipids. The health benefits of all these compounds are\r\nhighlighted.','INTRODUCTION\r\nRagi (Eleusine coracana) is an African genus and one\r\nof the important millets of the world. It is the principal staple\r\nfood of many tribes in the dry–land regions of East Africa,\r\nEthiopia, Somaliland and Southern India. In India, the area\r\nunder Ragi cultivation covers 3–4 million hectares.\r\nThe nutritive value of Ragi is because of the\r\ncarbohydrate content: 72%; proteins: 7.3%; fats: 1.4%;\r\nminerals: 2.7%. Ragi also has some good number of Essential\r\nAmino Acids (EAA) which are essential for human body.\r\nFew of the key EAAs which Ragi contains are Valine,\r\nMethionine, Isoleucine, Threonine and Tryptophan.\r\nMethionine is said to help promote growth of healthy skin\r\nand hair and is generally lacking in staple diet of hundreds\r\nof millions of people. The presence of about seven phenolic\r\nacids such as gallic acid (GA), tannic acid (TA), vanillic\r\nacid (VA), ferulic acid (FA), caffeic acid (CA), chlorogenic\r\n(Chl–A) acid and protocatechuic acid(P–Cat–A) (Singh et\r\nal., 2008).\r\nThough it is a major diet of many tribes, not much of\r\nthe work has been undertaken on the other important\r\nconstituents such as the oil content, flavonoids,\r\nphospholipids and the total antioxidant potential. Of late\r\nthere is a resurgence of interest in these compounds as\r\nthey are found to impart a number of health benefits to the\r\nconsumer (Jones et al., 2002; Dykes and Rooney, 2007).\r\nResearch has shown that whole grain consumption helps\r\nlower the risk of cardiovascular disease, ischemic stroke,\r\ntype II diabetes, metabolic syndrome, gastrointestinal cancers\r\nIn addition to dietary fibre, whole grain contains many health\r\npromoting components such as minerals, vitamins and\r\nphytochemicals, which include phenolic compounds.\r\nPhenolic compounds have anti–oxidant properties and can\r\nprotect against degenerative diseases (i.e. heart diseases\r\nand cancer) in which reactive oxygen species (i.e. superoxide\r\nanion, hydroxyl radicals and peroxy radicals) are involved\r\n(Rhodes and Price, 1997).\r\nMATERIALS AND METHODS\r\nThe seeds were obtained from Gujarat State Seeds\r\nCorporation, Vadodara. The powdered grain is extracted with\r\npetroleum ether and the total ether solubles quantified. The\r\nsaponification value of the oil is estimated using standard\r\nmethods. For GC–MS analysis, the Equipment used was\r\nFocus–PolQ GC/MS (Thermo); Column: ZB–5 capillary\r\ncolumn (30 m × 0.25 mm × 0.25 mm); Oven temperature:\r\n80°C for 5 min, then increased 3°C/min to 220°C and held\r\nfor 5.0min.; Injector Temperature: 230°C, Carrier gas: Helium\r\n(1mL/min). The injection volume was 0.5ul and EI–MS: 70\r\neV in the range m/z 30–400. Individual compounds were\r\nidentified as methyl ester by comparing their mass spectrum\r\nwith library (NIST) and literature (Adams 2007).\r\nThe phospholipids and phenolics were extracted from\r\ndefatted material using methanol in a Soxhlet\'s extractor. The\r\nmethanol extract is concentrated and on addition of acetone\r\nto this concentrated extract phospholipids precipitated,\r\nwhich are filtered and quantified. The acetone solubles\r\nremaining after the separation of phospholipids contained\r\nphenolics including flavonoids.\r\nPhospholipids were analyzed by TLC (Silica gel) using\r\nthe solvent systems acetone: benzene: water (91 : 30 : 8,v/\r\nv/v) and chloroform: methanol: acetic acid: water (170 : 30 :\r\n20 : 7,v/v/v/v). Lecithins were visualized by spraying the\r\ndeveloped chromatograms by Dragendroff\'s reagent (to\r\n46 Poonia, Chavan and Danial\r\nlocate choline–containing lipids) and the cephaelins were\r\nlocated by Ninhydrin reagent. Galactolipids were identified\r\nby spraying the TLC plates with anisaldehyde–sulphuric acid\r\nreagent.Total phenols were estimated by Folin–Ciocaulteu\r\nmethod (Singleton et al., 1999). Flavonoids were analyzed\r\nby standard methods prescribed by Mabry and co–workers\r\n(1970). The identification of phenolic acids was done\r\nfollowing Ibrahim and Towers (1960). The Total antioxidant\r\nactivity was measured using the well–known DPPH method\r\n(Siddique et al. 2010).','Kiran Poonia*, Sonal Chavan* and M. Daniel* (2012). Fixed Oil Composition, Polyphenols and Phospholipids of Finger Millet [Eleusine coracana (L.) Gaertn].Biological Forum — An International Journal, 4(1): 45-47.'),(4468,'112','Screening of Rice Genotypes for Leaf and Neck Blast Disease Resistance','Jyoti P. Jirankali*, C.A. Deepak, M.P. Rajanna, B.S. Chethana and S. Ramesh ','305 Screening of Rice Genotypes for Leaf and Neck Blast Disease Resistance Jyoti P Jirankali.pdf','',1,'Rice blast, caused by Pyricularia oryzae with high pathogen plasticity and mutation rate considered as the most damaging disease in rice. It is responsible for yield losses of about 10% to 30% annually. In favorable conditions, this disease can devastate entire rice plants within 15 to 20 days and cause yield losses of up to 100%. There is always a continuous need of screening germplasm lines to identify resistant genotypes, which is a sustainable approach to disease management. A total of 143 rice genotypes, with resistant (Tetep) and susceptible check (HR12) were screened against leaf blast and neck blast (Pyricularia oryzae) disease under high disease pressure. It is found that for leaf blast, 3 rice genotypes were resistant, while for neck blast, genotype (G226) was highly resistant, and 32 genotypes were resistant. Leaf and neck infection were positively correlated and non-significant (r = 0.228). While genotypes G177 and G701 were resistant to both leaf and neck blast, and can be used in blast resistance breeding programs as prospective resistant sources.','Breeding lines, Leaf blast, Pyricularia oryzae, Neck blast, Screening and Resistance','Identification or screening of the available germplasm against a disease is a fundamental work, before the start of gene introgression or heterosis breeding. In the present study, we identified that genotypes viz. G177 and G701 were resistant to both leaf and neck blast, while none of the genotypes were highly resistant to leaf blast. While the genotype G226 was highly resistant to neck blast. From these findings we conclude that these entries could be used as parents in blast resistance breeding programs, at the area of study.','INTRODUCTION\r\nPyricularia oryzae, a heterothallic ascomycete, causes rice blast, which is one of the most important biotic limitations on rice productivity (Deng et al., 2017). Rice blast may infect the plant at any stage of development. Over the previous few decades, India and Japan have seen repeated outbreaks and recurrent breakdowns of rice blast resistance, resulting in output losses of 20–100 percent (Khush and Jena 2009; Sharma et al., 2012). Disease kills seedlings in nurseries and crops at the tillering stage when environmental circumstances are ideal. The use of host resistance genes is critical to its control (Zhai et al., 2014).\r\nLeaf blast lowers the quantity of bearing panicles and the weight of individual grains by stunting plant height (Thruston 1998). Barren panicles develop from stem node infections, while late neck infections result in \'broken necks,\' chalky kernels, and sterile grains (Candole et al., 1999). Leaf blast also boosts plant respiration while lowering maximal photosynthetic rate at light saturation and early light efficiency (Pinnschmidt et al., 1994). Under intensive agriculture and high nitrogen levels in highland areas, disease becomes prominent and pandemic (Bonman 1992). \r\n\r\n\r\n\r\nHost cultivars, resistant to leaf and panicle blast, are the most widely used method of disease control (Bonman 1992). Partial resistant cultivars are more effective to manage blast in irrigated rice of the tropics (Bonman and Mackill 1988; Yeh and Bonman 1986). Some partial resistant cultivars showed durable resistance (Johnson, 1981). Variability and population biology of the blast fungus (Correa- Victoria and Zeigler 1993; Zeigler et al., 1994); behavior of resistance genes (McCouch et al., 1994), and host–parasite interaction in the rice-blast pathosystem (Notteghem and Silue 1992) are essential in the breeding programme. Effective and efficient screening techniques are keys in successful breeding programs for blast resistance.\r\nThe continuously evolving genome of Pyricularia oryzae as well as existence of geographically diverse strains are challenges for the rice breeders. Genome studies of the rice blast fungus have revealed high probabilities of transposons mediated inactivation of genes involved in host specificity. Moreover, the high genetic variability in Pyricularia oryzae allows the fungus to broaden the host range and infect formerly resistant genotypes (Dean et al., 2005). It is therefore important to build a repository of resistant accessions. Thus, the present experiment was conducted to examine and screen out the different rice lines resistant to both leaf and neck blast as well as to show the relationship between them. \r\nMATERIAL AND METHODS \r\nA set of 143 rice genotypes of rice germplasm material were obtained from the International Rice Gene bank (IRG) of the International Rice Research Institute (IRRI), Philippines as listed in Annexure 2. The International Rice Germplasm Collection (IRGC) of IRG holds more than 120,000 accessions from different geographical regions of the world (129 countries) and were screened phenotypically for blast resistance at ZARS, V. C. Farm, Mandya adopting Uniform Blast Nursery design. Each test entries were sown in a single row of 50 cm long with row to row spacing of 10 cm with two rows of local susceptible check (HR 12) after every ten test entries and resistant check of two rows (Tetep) was planted in every bed (Fig. 1), respectively. Isolate and inoculum production. The pure culture of Pyricularia oryzae was grown on rice flour agar medium (2% rice flour, 0.2% yeast extract and 2% agar) and incubated at 25oC for 12 hours per day of fluorescent light conditions for 8-10 days. Fungal colonies were scraped out of the surface for further sporulation and incubated under the same culture conditions for 1 to 2 days. After conidia formation, the conidia were harvested using sterile distilled water. The inoculums were adjusted to a concentration of 5 × 104 conidia per ml using sterilized distilled water to which 0.1% Twenty 20 was added before spraying. The spore suspension was inoculated using atomizer at fourth leaf stage after the sunset at around 6 pm. After inoculation, the plants were covered with polythene for 14 h i.e., from 6pm to 8 am for 3-4 days till the symptom appearance.\r\nRice lines evaluation to leaf and neck blast:\r\nArtificial blast nursery for leaf blast. Seeds of rice variety HR12 were planted as a border row in 20 cm diameter containers containing wetland soil for leaf blast scoring. Using a pneumatic hand sprayer, the decanted spore solution containing 5×104 spores per ml was sprayed at fourth leaf stage after the sunset at around 6 pm To increase disease incidence, spraying was repeated every three days, when the susceptible check was extensively infected with blast, with a leaf blast score of 9, the observations were made. Individual plants in each submission were graded on a 0-9 scale for leaf blast intensity using the Standard Evaluation System (SES, IRRI, 1996) given in Table 1.\r\nOpen field conditions for neck blast natural infection. Screening for natural infection against neck blast was carried at I block, ZARS, V. C. Farm, Mandya during winter season which is the most favorable condition for neck blast disease development (Fig. 1). The sowing was carried out as per the guidelines given by IRRI. The observation of disease reaction was recorded when the susceptible check was \r\nseverely infected by neck blast. Disease severity was assessed on 10 plants of each entry for neck blast and infested neck area. The observations were recorded when the susceptible check was severely infected with blast with a neck blast score of 9. Individual plants in each entry were scored based on the neck blast severity following Standard Evaluation System on 0-9 scale (SES, IRRI, 2013) given in Table 2.\r\nDisease assessment and statistical analysis. Disease scoring was done at weekly intervals after inoculation at different growth stages. Area Under Disease Progress Curve (AUDPC) was calculated for quantitative disease resistance assessment using the following formula (Das et al., 1992). \r\n \r\nwhere xi = disease severity on the ith date, ti = date on which the disease was scored (ith day), n = number of dates on which disease was scored. AUDPC measures the amount of disease as well as rate of progress, and unit less. \r\nSimilarly, for the neck blast, total numbers of infected necks were scored, counted and disease incidence (DI) % was calculated using formula DI% = (number of infected plants/total number of plants counted in a plot). Based on the neck incidence percentage, lines were classified as resistant (R) with 0–15% neck infection, moderately resistant (MR) with 15.1–30% infection, moderately susceptible (MS) 30.1–50% with infection, and 50.1–100% infection as susceptible. Simple correlation coefficient and regression was determined to test the mean and interaction effect between leaf and neck infection using Microsoft Excel (2000).\r\nIndividual plants in each entry were assessed on a 0-9 scale for leaf blast intensity using the Standard Evaluation System (SES, IRRI, 1996).\r\nRESULTS AND DISCUSSION\r\nThe blast pathogen affects different parts of a rice plant during pathogenesis. One of the serious forms of rice blast is neck blast. However, due to the very complex nature of Pyricularia oryzae, the epidemiology of pathogen is not completely understood and the screening technique for neck blast is not standardized. In contrast to neck blast, the leaf blast is well studied and the screening method for the same is precisely standardized. \r\nA set of 143 lines with checks (Tetep-resistant check, HR 12-susceptible check) were evaluated for the blast resistance using uniform blast nursery method, with artificial inoculation of Pyricularia oryzae, following 0-9 standard evaluation scale for rice blast (SES IRRI, 1996 and 2013) and all test entries were categorized into different categories based on their response to Pyricularia oryzae. \r\nIt was identified that the lines G177, G701, G814, G830 and Tetep (Resistance check), shown resistance reaction, with a phenotypic score of 1 but none of test entries shown to be highly resistant with a score of 0 (Fig. 2). However, the 24 lines corresponded to moderate resistance. Further, 31 lines were found to be moderately susceptible against leaf blast disease with phenotypic scores of 4 and 5. Twenty seven lines were found to show susceptible reaction to leaf blast disease with phenotypic scores of 6 and 7. The highest susceptibility with phenotypic score of 8 and 9 was recorded by 57 lines and susceptible check HR 12 (Table 3). Similar field screening experiments were conducted for identification of location specific blast resistant lines by Srijan et al. (2015), Hosagoudar and Jairam Amadabade (2017); Vinayak et al. (2018) also. \r\nUnder natural hotspot screening of different landraces for neck blast resistance, it was observed that genotype G226 is highly resistant against neck blast. Thirty-two genotypes showed resistant reaction with a score of 1. However, 37 were moderately resistant against neck blast disease with phenotypic scores of 3.32 entries were moderately susceptible against neck blast with a score of 5. While 27 genotypes were found to be susceptible with a score of 7 and remaining 14 entries were highly susceptible with a score of 9, against neck blast (Table 4). \r\nGenotype G226 was highly resistant to neck blast and moderately resistant to leaf blast. While G177, G701 were resistant to both neck and leaf blast. G238, G270, G332, G352, G353 (a), G362, G365, G368, G379, G493, G699, G704, G823 were resistant to neck blast and moderately resistant to leaf blast. Puri et al. (2009) reported differential behavior of lines, (Barkhe 1006, Barkhe 1032, Barkhe 3004 were resistant to neck blast and had intermediate reaction to leaf) to leaf and neck blast, as our findings.\r\nLeaf and neck blast infection was positively correlated and non-significant (r = 0.228) (Fig. 4). Leaf blast susceptible varieties have shown resistance to neck blast and vice versa (Ono and Suzuki 1960). Ou (1985); Ou and Nuque (1963) reported lines resistant to leaf blast to seedling stage, are completely resistant to neck blast and susceptible at the seedling stage are susceptible to neck blast. Bhardwaj and Singh (1983); Balal et al. (1977) also showed the positive correlation between leaf and neck infection. However, Koh et al. (1987); Bonman (1992) found some cultivars resistant in seedling stage appeared susceptible to neck infection.\r\n \r\nArea under disease progressive curve. AUDPC were calculated based on the disease severity percentage, using the formula as presented in the materials and methods chapter. Lowest total AUDPC was observed on G177 with a value of 22.5, whereas highest value was observed on G13, G86, G89, G127, G131, G142, G153, G178, G209, G259, G271, G275, G333, G376, G382, G384, G385, G565, G736 followed by G82, G129 and G322. Based on the Total AUDPC value, rice genotypes were listed on the five categories from resistant to highly susceptible which are shown in the Tables 3 and 4. The AUPDC Values along with their disease score after every week has been depicted in Annexure 1.\r\nDisease progress in rice lines. Rice lines showed increasing disease progress and AUDPC value up to 25 days after inoculation (DAI) and trend remained constant (Fig. 3). In G1, AUDPC was increasing at a higher rate compared to G42, G167, G365 and G505. \r\nIn G1, G42, G167, G365, G505, G161, G205, G236, G270, G701, G814, G830 it was constant throughout all days. In G21, G37, G52, G122, G133, G137, G138, G147, G184, G187, G191, G204, G208, G215, G232, G246, G250, G263, G268, G332, G360, G375, G404, G657, G740, G773, G782, G812. G823, G832 AUDPC was increasing after 28 DAI. G82, G129 and G322 had higher and G177 had minimum AUDPC value. None of the genotypes had decreasing AUDPC values. G86, G89, G127, G131, G142, G153, G178, G209, G259, G271, G275, G333, G376, G382, G384, G385, G565, G736 a higher level AUDPC value was recorded, showing constant susceptible disease reaction with a score of 9. As shown in Table 5, among the selected top 12 genotypes resistant to blast disease, G177 was resistant with AUDPC value 22.5. \r\nAUDPC value of genotypes G701, G814, G830 were constant with score of 27, whereas for G704 and G365 disease progress was increasing after 34 DAS with AUPDC value of 31.5 and 36 respectively, for G740, G823 AUPDC value was 40.5, disease progress was increasing after 25 DAS. G1 showed a drastic increase after 34 DAS. G279 and G505 showed increased disease rate after 25 and 34 DAS, both with AUPDC value of 49.5 (Fig. 5). Thus, the rice genotypes used in this study having different genetic background showed different interaction to leaf blast. Such result was also supported by the work of Chaudhary et al., (2001) and Puri et al. (2006). Several researchers have reported having higher degree of blast resistance (Chaudhary et al., 2005 and Joshi et al., 2017). The most important challenge in front of the rice scientists is to do accumulation of resistance genes which could be used against continuously evolving and geographically diverse races of P. oryzae (Sharma et al., 2012). Thus, such studies need to be continued to monitor virulence of the blast pathogen and to identify new sources of resistance which will help in national breeding program for the development of blast resistant rice varieties in future.\r\n','Jyoti P. Jirankali, C.A. Deepak, M.P. Rajanna, B.S. Chethana and S. Ramesh (2022). Screening of Rice Genotypes for Leaf and Neck Blast Disease Resistance. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 14(1): 1741-1750.'),(4469,'123','Studies on Scarabaeid Beetles (Coleoptera) of Govind Wildlife Sanctuary, Garhwal, Uttarakhand, India.','Kailash Chandra*, Devanshu Gupta**, V.P. Uniyal***, Manish Bharadwaj***\r\nand Abesh K. Sanyal***','10 DIVANSHU.pdf','',1,'The paper presents faunal account of a small collection of scarab beetles from Govind Wildlife\r\nSanctuary, Uttarakhand, comprising 11 species belonging to 11 genera, 5 subfamilies and 2 families of superfamily\r\nScarabaeoidea. All the species are recorded for the first time from the sanctuary while three species viz. Anomala\r\ncantori (Hope), Mimela passerinii Hope, and Oryctes nasicornis (Linnaeus) are new records to the fauna of Uttarakhand.\r\nAn updated checklist of the scarab beetles under superfamily Scarabaeoidea of Uttarakhand comprising about 167\r\nspecies belonging to 52 genera, 21 tribes, 9 subfamilies and 3 families is also provided.','Scarabaeid beetles, Govind Wildlife Sanctuary, Uttarakhand, Updated checklist.','The paper presents faunal account of a small collection of scarab beetles from Govind Wildlife\r\nSanctuary, Uttarakhand, comprising 11 species belonging to 11 genera, 5 subfamilies and 2 families of superfamily\r\nScarabaeoidea. All the species are recorded for the first time from the sanctuary while three species viz. Anomala\r\ncantori (Hope), Mimela passerinii Hope, and Oryctes nasicornis (Linnaeus) are new records to the fauna of Uttarakhand.\r\nAn updated checklist of the scarab beetles under superfamily Scarabaeoidea of Uttarakhand comprising about 167\r\nspecies belonging to 52 genera, 21 tribes, 9 subfamilies and 3 families is also provided.','INTRODUCTION\r\nLamellicorn scarab beetles are the most diverse and\r\nwidely distributed insects which belong to the largest order\r\nColeoptera under superfamily Scarabaeoidea which includes\r\napproximately 31,000 species worldwide of which the family\r\nScarabaeidae is composed of about 91% of all scarabaeoids\r\nand represented by 27,800 species worldwide (Jameson and\r\nRatcliffe 2001). Unlike the other groups of insects, the\r\nmembers of the family Scarabaeidae contains both beneficial\r\n(coprophagous) and harmful (phytophagous) beetles. Among\r\nwhich coprophagous beetles, through their habitat of\r\nburrowing and burying of dung, perform a series of\r\necological functions such as nutrient cycling, soil aeration\r\n(Mittal, 1993), secondary seed dispersal (Estrada and Coates-\r\nEstrada, 1991 & Larsen, 2004) and regulation of enteric\r\nparasites and dung breeding dipterans pests (Borenmissza,\r\n1970 & Fincher, 1981). On the other hand phytophagous\r\nones or leaf-chafers are agricultural pests of various\r\ncommercial crops, feeding mostly on leaves, flowers, fruits,\r\nroots and other parts of the plants.\r\nThe first comprehensive account on the scarabaeid\r\nbeetles of the Indian region was published by Arrow (1910,\r\n1917, and 1931) in three volumes of Fauna of British India\r\nwhere in 72 species were reported from Uttarakhand. Later\r\nMittal (1998) published an annotated list of the scarab fauna\r\nof Western Uttar Pradesh and recorded 151 species of these\r\nbeetles belonging to 41 genera and 12 subfamilies. Recently\r\nMittal (2005) also gave the diversity and conservation status\r\nof 136 species of Laparostict Scarabaeidae belonging to 26\r\ngenera and 8 subfamilies from North India. Subsequently\r\nChatterjee (2010) while studying the scarab beetle fauna of\r\nUttarakhand reported 44 species belonging to 16 genera and\r\n3 subfamilies.\r\nThe present study includes faunal account of a small\r\ncollection of the scarab beetles of Govind Wildlife Sanctuary,\r\nUttarakhand comprising 11 species belonging to 11 genera,\r\n5 subfamilies and 2 families of superfamily Scarabaeoidea\r\n(Plate 1). These species are recorded for the first time from\r\nthe sanctuary while three species viz. Anomala cantori\r\n(Hope), Mimela passerinii Hope, and Oryctes nasicornis\r\n(Linnaeus) are new record to the fauna of Uttarakhand. The\r\npaper also includes an updated checklist of the scarab\r\nbeetles of Uttarakhand comprising 167 species belonging to\r\n52 genera, 21 tribes, 9 subfamilies and 3 families of\r\nsuperfamily Scarabaeoidea.\r\nMATERIAL AND METHODS\r\nStudy area. Govind Wildlife Sanctuary is located in\r\nUttarakashi district of Garhwal in the state of Uttarakhand\r\nand lies in between 35°55 and 31°17.30 latitudes and 77°47.30\r\nand 78°37.30 longitudes at Purola tehsil. The sanctuary was\r\nestablished on 1st of March 1955 and spreads over an area\r\nof 957.969 sq km.\r\nThe beetle specimens for the present study were\r\ncollected using light trap and preserved dry pinned. The\r\nbeetles were then identified with help of available literature\r\n(Arrow, 1910; 1917; 1931 and Kuijten, 1983) and matched\r\nwith the reference collections present in Zoological Survey\r\nof India, Jabalpur. The details of material examined and\r\ndistribution of the newly recorded scarab beetles from the\r\nsanctuary is provided along with the species photographs\r\n(Plate 1). The classification adopted in the article is after\r\nSmith (2006) Voucher specimens are deposited in Zoological\r\nSurvey of India, Jabalpur, Madhya Pradesh.\r\nChandra, Gupta, Uniyal, Bharadwaj and Sanyal 49\r\nOBSERVATIONS\r\nSystematic account\r\nOrder: Coleoptera Linnaeus, 1758\r\nSuborder: Polyphaga Emery, 1886\r\nSuper family: Scarabaeoidea Latreille, 1802\r\nFamily: Hybosoridae Erichson, 1847\r\nI. Subfamily: Hybosorinae Erichson, 1847\r\n1. Hybosorus orientalis Westwood, 1845\r\n1845. Hybosorus orientalis Westwood, Trans. Ent. Soc.\r\nLond., 6 : 159.\r\nMaterial examined: Uttarakhand, Garhwal, (GWLS),\r\n10.xii.2009 (1ex.), Coll. Manish Bharadwaj.\r\nDistribution: India: Bihar, Haryana, Himachal Pradesh,\r\nKerala, Madhya Pradesh, Maharashtra, Orissa, Punjab,\r\nRajasthan, Sikkim, Tamil Nadu, Uttar Pradesh, Uttarakhand,\r\nand West Bengal. Elsewhere: England, Pakistan, Nepal, and\r\nU.S.A.\r\nFamily: Scarabaeidae Latreille, 1802\r\nI. Subfamily: Scarabaeinae Latreille, 1802\r\n2. Oniticellus (Oniticellus) cinctus (Fabricius, 1775)\r\n1775. Scarabaeus cinctus Fabricius, Syst. Ent. : 30.\r\n1931. Oniticellus cinctus, Arrow, Faun. Brit. India,\r\n(Lamellicornia : Coprinae) 3 : 379-380.\r\n1963. Oniticellus (Oniticellus) cinctus, Balthasar, Mon.\r\nder Scarabaeidae und Aphodiidae der Palaeark. und\r\nOrientalis. Region (Coleoptera : Lamellicornia), Coprinae, II:\r\n77.\r\nMaterial examined: Uttarakhand, Garhwal, (GWLS),\r\n10.xii.2009 (1ex.), Coll. Manish Bharadwaj.\r\nDistribution: India: Haryana, Himachal Pradesh, Madhya\r\nPradesh, Maharashtra, Tamil Nadu, Uttarakhand, Uttar\r\nPradesh, and West Bengal.\r\n3. Liatongus gagatinus Hope, 1831\r\n1831. Liatongus gagatinus Hope, Gray\'s Zool. Misc. :\r\n22.\r\n1931. Liatongus gagatinus, Arrow, Faun. Brit. India,\r\n(Lamellicornia : Coprinae) 3 : 365-366.\r\n1963. Liatongus gagatinus, Balthasar, Mon. der\r\nScarabaeidae und Aphodiidae der Palaeark. und Orientalis.\r\nRegion (Coleoptera : Lamellicornia), Coprinae, II: 104.\r\nMaterial examined: Uttarakhand, Garhwal, (GWLS),\r\n08.vii.2009 (1ex.), Coll. A. K. Sanyal.\r\nDistribution: India: Arunachal Pradesh, Assam,\r\nMeghalaya, Nagaland, Sikkim, Uttarakhand and West Bengal.\r\nElsewhere: Myanmar and Nepal.\r\nII. Subfamily: Rutelinae MacLeay, 1819\r\n4. Anomala cantori (Hope, 1840)\r\n1840. Euchlora cantori Hope, Mag. Nat. Hist. iv : 284.\r\n1917. Anomala cantori: Arrow, Faun. Brit. India\r\n(Lamellicornia: Rutelinae), 2 : 220.\r\nMaterial examined: Uttarakhand, Garhwal, (GWLS),\r\n10.xii.2009 (1ex.), Coll. Manish Bharadwaj.\r\nDistribution: India: Assam, Himachal Pradesh, Haryana,\r\nMadhya Pradesh, Uttarakhand and West Bengal. Elsewhere:\r\nMyanmar.\r\n5. Popillia cyanea Hope, 1831\r\n1831. Popillia cyanea Hope,* Gray\'s Zool. Miscell. :\r\n23.\r\n1917. Popillia cyanea: Arrow, Faun. Brit. India\r\n(Lamellicornia: Rutelinae), 2 : 62.\r\nMaterial examined: Uttarakhand, Garhwal, (GWLS),\r\n10.xii.2009 (1ex.), Coll. Manish Bharadwaj.\r\nDistribution: India: Arunachal Pradesh, Assam, Himachal\r\nPradesh, Jammu & Kashmir, Punjab, Sikkim, Uttarakhand and\r\nWest Bengal. Elsewhere: Nepal.\r\n6. Mimela passerinii Hope, 1842\r\n1842. Mimela passerinii Hope,* Proc. Linn. Soc. I :\r\n128.\r\n1917. Mimela passerinii, Arrow, Faun. Brit. India\r\n(Lamellicornia: Rutelinae), 2 : 105.\r\nMaterial examined: Uttarakhand, Garhwal, (GWLS),\r\n10.xii.2009 (1ex.), Coll. Abesh K. Sanyal.\r\nDistribution: India: Himachal Pradesh, Kashmir,\r\nMeghalaya, Sikkim and Uttarakhand. Elsewhere: China and\r\nTibet.\r\nIII. Subfamily: Melolonthinae MacLeay, 1819\r\n7. Hilyotrogus holosericeus Redtenbacher, 1844\r\n1844. Hilyotrogus holosericeus Redtenbacher, in Hugel\r\nReise Kaschmir IV, 2 : 524.\r\nMaterial examined: Uttarakhand, Garhwal, (GWLS),\r\n07.xii.2009 (1ex. ), Coll. Manish Bhardwaj.\r\nDistribution: India: Himachal Pradesh, Kashmir and\r\nUttarakhand.\r\n8. Holotrichia longipennis Blanchard, 1850\r\n1850. Holotrichia longipennis Blanchard, Cat. Coll. Ent.\r\nI. : 140.','Kailash Chandra, Devanshu Gupta, V.P. Uniyal, Manish Bharadwaj\r\nand Abesh K. Sanyal. Studies on Scarabaeid Beetles (Coleoptera) of Govind Wildlife Sanctuary, Garhwal, Uttarakhand, India. Biological Forum — An International Journal, 4(1): 48-54.'),(4470,'112','Economic Analysis of Cotton Production in Bhadradri Kothagudem District of Telangana','Barre Jyothsna Priyadarshini*, D.K. Sinha, Nasim Ahmed and K.M. Singh','306 Economic Analysis of Cotton Production in Bhadradri Kothagudem District of Telangana Barre Jyothsna Priyadarshini.pdf','',1,'The study focused on the economics of cotton production in Telangana\'s Bhadradri Kothagudem district. So, Bhadradri Kothagudem district was one of the largest cotton cultivating district in Telangana along with diversified cotton cultivation The survey was conducted in the year 2019-20. The cost of cultivation or production of any crop assists farmers in determining the profitability of the harvest and, as a result, the need to adjust cropping patterns. The data was analyzed using descriptive statistics, comprising mean, percentage, ratio, and the Cost-A, Cost-B, and Cost-C cost concepts. As a result, the current study has calculated the cost and returns of cotton cultivation. Cotton production had an extremely high total cost. 94,159.47/per hectare. The overall net yield per hectare has been estimated to be around Rs. 30,454.03/per hectare. 124,613.50/per hectare was found for the cotton cultivation. The cost concepts and farm efficiency measurements were developed, and they revealed a significant and direct relationship with farm size and profitability. A net return analysis was also conducted for different types of farms, resulting indicated varying trends. The research also showed that as acre size increased, yield, gross return, and net return per acre increased. There were significant differences in these characteristics among farms of marginal and medium size. Differences in cost per acre across various size classes were reflected in yield per acre differences. There were no significant differences in cotton selling prices among the various farm sizes.','Economic Analysis, Cost and returns, Gross return, Net profit, cotton production','In cotton production, the study revealed a significant variation in expenditures between lower and higher size categories of farms. This resulted in lower levels of crop productivity in smaller size classes of farms as compared to greater size classes of farms. Due to a lack of financial resources, marginal and small farmers could not afford to invest further in the cultivation of this crop. Small farmers used to have the highest variable costs due to the cost of human labour, bullock labour, FYM, and pesticide expenditure, whereas semi-medium farmers had the lowest. Due to the rental value of land, midsize farmers had the highest share of fixed costs. Cotton is the most important crop in the research area, contributing for almost 40% of the gross cultivated area, followed by rice. Plant protection methods were widely used in the study region, and chemical fertilizers were used more frequently than organic manures. Cotton\'s overall cost of production was relatively high. A contribution of Rs. 93872.01/- per hectare was received. \r\nOverall, it was estimated that the net return per hectare would be around Rs. 30741.49/-. Cotton farming yielded a total net income per hectare of Rs. 30741.49/- and a total gross revenue of Rs. 124613.5/- per hectare.\r\nCotton production was a viable enterprise in the research region, according to the results of cost of cultivation and net farm revenue analyses. Various policy initiatives and suggestions are given based on the preceding findings to help improve the rate of improvement in cotton production.\r\n1. The government must establish a proper inputs delivery network by reactivating the farmers supply company, inputs supply agencies, and registered private actors. The private sector input voucher distribution programme would provide farmers with improving accessibility to inputs at affordable prices and at the right time.\r\n2. A consistent and deliberate approach should be taken through an intensive research and extension service delivery programme for cotton production. As more innovation is given, the utilization of appropriate recommended cotton production practices will increase.\r\n3. Cotton production is a profitable business. As a result, agro-service agencies and the government should support the production of cotton lint, cotton seed, cotton seed oil, and cotton seed cake by providing input subsidies and price incentives.\r\n4. Farmers should be effectively trained with the use of pesticides by the government and the private sector in order to effectively control pest and disease infestation on cotton farms. To reduce the use of fraudulent and adulterated chemicals, farmers should have access to high-quality, well-tested pesticides.\r\n5. Farmers are encouraged to establish or join cooperative societies in order to have access to lending and borrowing facilities provided by government and other financial institutions.\r\n6. Fertilizer, for instance, should be distributed at the correct time.\r\n7. Cotton growers would gain through coordination between both the state, federal government, and donor institutions.\r\n','INTRODUCTION\r\nCotton is one of India\'s most important fibre and cash crops, and it is vital to the country\'s industrial and agricultural economy. India has overtaken China as the world\'s second largest producer of cotton and first in terms of total area under crop production. Cotton sowing, temporal conflicts in preceding crop harvesting, and interactions due to residual effects on successive crops all affect cotton management in complex farming systems (Byerlee et al., 1986). According to Iqbal et al. (2001), timely availability of inputs like seeds, fertilizers, and pesticides can boost crop output. According to Batterham (2000), cotton production is still insufficient to meet demand. Cotton cultivation costs have a significant part in determining the profitability of the crop. It also has an impact on the livelihoods of more than 6 million cotton farmers, the majority of whom are small and marginal. Cotton growers in India are becoming increasingly dissatisfied as income have decreased over the years. Cotton cultivation costs have increased in several studies at various levels (Shende and Thakare 2011; Balaji and Kumar, 2016; Narayanamoorthy, 2013; Suresh et al., 2014; Matode et al., 2015). The increasing cost of cultivation has major consequences and will have an impact on cotton production\'s long-term sustainability. Hence, there is a need for an in-depth analysis to find out the major factors responsible for the escalation in cultivation costs. The farming community requires current information in order to increase cotton yield. This provides a full analysis as well as recommendations based on the study\'s findings.\r\nThe world\'s foremost country for cotton textile domestication and manufacturing. Cotton is also known as \"The King of Fibers\" or \"The White Gold”. It is a widely farmed commercial crop all over the world, but it is especially important in India. After China, India is the world\'s second-largest cotton producer, accounting for around 18% of global cotton production. A net return analysis was also conducted for different types of farms, resulting indicated varying trends. Several studies have found that adopting Bt cotton has positive social and economic benefits, including poverty reduction and rural development (Subramanian and Qaim, 2010), higher yield and lower pesticide use (Krishna and Qaim, 2012), and an increase in positive health externalities (Kouser and Qaim, 2011), among many others. It received the distinction of possessing the world\'s biggest cotton area under cultivation, having 12.2 million hectares accounting for around 25% of the world\'s cotton cultivation area. Despite the fact that the yield per hectare is the lowest in comparison to the global average, it has shown a promising potential to reach world average output levels in the near future over the last two years (Clive, 2013). Cotton production in the country has increased significantly over the years.\r\nCotton contributes around 44% of the world\'s fibre and 10% of the world\'s oil products. The increase in production in the area in 2015-16 is attributed to an increase in the number of people working in the area. Cotton crop output in 2015-16 was 358 kg/ha, down from 360 kg/ha in 2014-15, a 0.56 percent reduction from the previous year. Area, productivity, and production crops from 2001-02 to 2015-16 (Anonymous, 2016).\r\nMETHODOLOGY\r\nThe findings of the study were collected through personal interviews with chosen cotton growers in the study area. An elaborate schedule was designed to acquire data from the sample farmers, keeping in mind the study\'s objectives and nature. The research was carried out in the Telangana State district of Bhadradri Kothagudem since the cotton crop is one of the most important crops in the district during the Kharif season. So, Bhadradri Kothagudem district was one of the largest cotton cultivating district in Telangana along with diversified cotton cultivation. The next move was to select respondents from a complete list of farmers from the villages chosen together with their size of holdings were obtained with the aid of specialists in the subject matter. All the selected district divisions, along with the status of cotton cultivating area and production, will be prepared. Out of these divisions, one division having a more substantial area under cotton and diversified cultivation has selected. Furthermore, all the blocks/mandals selected under the division has been listed, and from among them, two blocks/mandals has selected with the most significant area under cotton cultivation. Using probability proportional to size sampling, 60 farmers are randomly assigned from every block, and therefore, 120 responders would be the maximum sample size.\r\nCost Concepts Employed. The present research is based primarily on primary field data acquired from chosen farm families in Telangana. On better assessment, the cost concepts of Cost A1, Cost A2, Cost B1, Cost B2, Cost C1, and Cost C2 were used in the analysis, as they are by the Commission for Agriculture Costs and Prices. In this study, cost ideas are utilised to estimate the average cost of production, farm business income, family labour income, net income, gross income, and the input items included under each cost category, as well as profitability from cotton crop cultivation. The following concepts were also considered in this research:\r\nCost A1: value of human labour plus attached labour + value of owned and hired bullock labour + charges on owned and hired machinery + value of seed (both farm produced and purchased) + value of pesticides, insecticides + value of owned and purchased manures + value of chemical fertilizers + depreciation on implements, equipments, and farm buildings + irrigation charges (payments made for canal water, pond water, etc.) + Land revenue, cess, and other taxes + Interest on work + (Artisans etc.).Cost A2: cost A1+rent paid for leased land \r\nCost B1: cost B1+intrest on capital assets (excluding land)\r\nCost B2: cost B1+rental value of own land\r\nCost C1: cost C1+imputed value of family labour\r\nCost C2: cost B2+imputed value of family labour.\r\nFarm Business Measures. Gross income, net income, farm business income, family labour income, and farm investment income are the farm business measures. They are used in the study to arrive at the gains to the farmers as well as different social and size categories of farmers. They are calculated using the standard formulae as follows.\r\n— Gross income: Value of total output (Main + by - product)\r\n— Net income/Profit: Gross income – Cost C2\r\n— Farm business income: Gross income – Cost A1 or Cost A2\r\n— Family labour income: Gross income – Cost B2\r\n— Family investment income: Farm business income – imputed value of family\r\n— Labour Benefit Cost Ratio = Net returns/Total cost of cultivation\r\nRESULTS AND DISCUSSION\r\nSome inputs (raw materials) are turned into outputs during the production process. Seed, manures, fertilizer, water, and plant protection elements are now all turned into various outputs in agricultural production. Throughout the production process of cotton, the costs involved in the production of these materials can be divided broadly in two groups, i.e. operating costs and overhead costs. Operating costs, known as variable costs or labour costs which comprising of those inputs which vary with production costs such as seeds, insecticides, plant protection measures, manures, fertilizers, human labour, machine labour, bullock labour, labour interest, etc. Although the overhead costs, also known as fixed costs, include equipment and machinery depreciation, rental costs. Further more, operating costs can be divided into two groups, i.e., labour costs such as human labour costs, bullock labour costs, machine labour costs, etc., and material costs such as seed costs, fertilizer costs, irrigation charges, plant chemicals costs, etc.\r\nA complete data analysis related to the cost of different items used in the production process was conducted in order to gain a more in-depth understanding of various cost components in cotton cultivation, and the results of the study are presented in Table 1.\r\nIt may be inferred from the table that the overall cost of cotton cultivation was calculated at Rs. 94159.47 per hectare. The variable cost per unit per hectare was Rs. 61791.80, or 65.35 percent of the total cost. The fixed cost per hectare amounted Rs. 32758.89, contributing about 34.65% of the total cotton production cost. The overall price of cotton cultivation was estimated to be Rs. 94550.69, Rs. 93507.95, Rs. 94495.88, and Rs. 964083.35 for marginal, small, medium, and large farms, respectively, across all farm sizes. For marginal, low, medium, and large farms, variable costs accounted for 63.10 percent of total costs, 63.92 percent, 64.65 percent, and 62.87 percent, respectively. On marginal, low, medium, and big farms, overhead expenditures accounted for 34.65 percent, 34.45 percent, 34.42 percent, and 36.86 percent, respectively. Due to a lack of resources, small farms compensated for their lower usage of machinery by depending more on family labour. Despite the profit margin, farmers faced the issue of high input costs, particularly fertilizer, enhanced seed, and tainted chemicals. Farmers should establish cooperatives to direct resources for purchasing inputs such as herbicides and pesticides, according to the research (Adeniji and Jirgi 2010).\r\nCosts and returns in cultivation of cotton\r\nCost of cultivation: Some inputs (raw materials) are turned into outputs during the manufacturing process. Seed, manures, fertilizer, water, and plant protection elements are all changed into different outputs during the agricultural production process. The cost of procuring these inputs in the cotton production process can be separated into two categories: operational cost and overhead cost. Operational cost, also known as variable cost or working cost, consists of inputs that vary with the level of production, such as seed, manures, fertilizers, plant protection measures, human labour, bullock labour, machine labour, interest on working capital, and so on, whereas overhead cost, also known as fixed cost, consists of depreciation on implements and machineries, rental value of owned land, and so on.The operational costs are further separated into two categories: labour costs such as human labour, bullock labour, machine labour, and material costs such as seed, fertilizers, irrigation charges, and plant protection chemicals costs, among many others.\r\nA detailed analysis of data related to the cost of different goods used in the process of making cotton were carried out in order to gain a better understanding of the various cost components in cotton cultivation, and the results of the data analysis are shown in Table 1.\r\nThe overall cost of cotton cultivation was estimated at Rs. 94159.47 per hectare, as shown in the Table. On average, the variable cost per hectare was Rs. 61791.80, accounting for 65.35 percent of the overall cost. The fixed cost per hectare came to Rs. 32758.89, accounting for 34.65% of the total cost of cotton cultivation.\r\nOn marginal, small, medium, and large farms, the total cost of cotton cultivation was found to be Rs. 94550.69, Rs. 93507.95, Rs. 94495.88, and Rs. 964083.35, respectively, across all farm size groups. On marginal, small, medium, and large farms, variable costs accounted for 63.10 percent, 63.92 percent, 64.65 percent, and 62.87 percent of total costs, respectively. On marginal, small, medium, and large farms, overhead costs accounted for 34.65 percent, 34.45 percent, 34.42 percent, and 36.86 percent, respectively.\r\nThe results clearly show that the total cost of cultivation was higher in the case of marginal farmers. This could be due to overuse and higher input costs because they purchase inputs from local markets. However, the other component of overall cost, overhead, did not show any consistent pattern as farm size increased.\r\nThe table also showed that among several components of variable cost, human labour contributed for the biggest percentage (27.26%) of the overall cost, followed by machinery charges (8.03%), insecticides costs (7.73%), fertilizers and manure costs (7.62%) in the cost of cultivation. Animal labour contributed for 6.25 percent of total operating costs, whereas seed accounted for 4.93 percent. Other less significant cost factors of operational cost were found to be family labour, irrigation, and manures.\r\nThe capital value of owned land was found to be the most important fixed cost item, accounting for 29.85% of the overall cost, followed by interest on fixed capital (1.97 per cent). When different cost components were compared across farms of different sizes, it was found that the cost of family labour declined as farm size increased, but the cost of machine labour continued to increase. It was mostly due to the fact that on larger farms, less human labour was compensated by more machine labour. In comparison to large farms, small farms used more family labour, according with analysis. Due to a lack of resources, small farms compensated for their lower usage of machinery by depending more on family labour.\r\nCost of cultivation in terms of cost concepts: Table 2 shows the findings of a study of the various cost concepts used during the analysis of cotton.\r\nThe cost A1 and cost A2 for all farm sizes were found to be Rs. 61337.56 and Rs. 62808.50 per hectare, respectively, as shown in Table 2. The costs B1 and B2 per hectare were calculated to be Rs. 63191.74 and Rs. 92779.03, respectively. The costs C1 and C2 per hectare were calculated to be Rs. 64572.18 and Rs. 94159.47, respectively. The prices of cotton per hectare on diverse farms fluctuated a lot.\r\nB-C ratio in terms of cost concepts: Cotton cost – benefit ratios were calculated for several categories of sample farms, as shown in Table 3.\r\nThe benefit-cost ratio calculates the return on every unit of investment in cotton production. Various cost items including such cost A1, cost A2, cost B1, cost B2, cost C1, and cost C2 were used to compute the benefit cost ratio. From CostA1 to CostC2, the entire B:C ratio changes from 2.03 to 1.32, respectively. On the basis of various costs, it ranged from 1.93 to 1.25 for marginal farms, 1.87 to 1.22 for small farms, 2.11 to 1.40 for medium farms, and 2.19 to 1.43 for large farms.\r\n\r\nReturns from cotton cultivation: Productivity and cost of production of cotton were computed for different categories farms under investigation and returns on the basis of farm business were shown in Table 4.\r\nCotton productivity was 27.8 quintal per hectare, according to the table. It was greater on medium farms (29.48 quintal per hectare), while it was determined to be 27.15 and 25.44 quintal per hectare on marginal and small farms, respectively.\r\nAt a market price of Rs. 4350 per quintal, the average gross return on cotton was estimated. Cotton\'s overall gross return was estimated to be Rs.124613.5. Overall farm business income, family labour income, and farm investment income per hectare were calculated to be Rs 61805.00, Rs 31834.47, and Rs 60424.56 per hectare.\r\nLow seed cotton prices, insect and disease infestations, insufficient funds, high input costs, and insufficient extension agents were also recognised as production bottlenecks in the study. Farmers should create cooperative societies to gain access to financing, and they should be trained by government and non-governmental organisations on the most effective pesticide application methods in the study area, according to the researchers (Alam et al., 2013).\r\nIt is assumed that, on average, the net return increases as the size of the farms grows. According to Qaim (2003); Rao and Dev (2009), the pro-Bt camp\'s narrative, Bt technology promises yield benefits.\r\nReturns from cotton cultivation in terms of cost concepts: There turns over different costs of cotton we real so computed for different categories of sample farms and presented in Table 5.\r\nWhen it comes to net profits per hectare, for all farm size categories, cost A1 and cost A2 were found to be Rs. 63275.94 and Rs. 61805.00, respectively. Furthermore, costs B1 and B2 were estimated. Rs. 61421.76 per hectare and Rs. 31834.47 per hectare, respectively. The costs C1 and C2 per hectare were estimated to be Rs. 64572.18 and Rs. 30454.03, respectively. A net return analysis was also conducted for various types of farms, which revealed fluctuating trends. A net return analysis was also conducted for various types of farms, which revealed fluctuating trends. These results were more or less similar to (Odedokun et al., 2015).\r\n \r\n','Barre Jyothsna Priyadarshini, D.K. Sinha, Nasim Ahmed and K.M. Singh (2022). Economic Analysis of Cotton Production in Bhadradri Kothagudem District of Telangana. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 14(1): 1751-1756.'),(4471,'123','Studies on Scarabaeid Beetles (Coleoptera) of Govind Wildlife Sanctuary, Garhwal, Uttarakhand, India.','Kailash Chandra*, Devanshu Gupta**, V.P. Uniyal***, Manish Bharadwaj***\r\nand Abesh K. Sanyal***','10 DIVANSHU.pdf','',1,'The paper presents faunal account of a small collection of scarab beetles from Govind Wildlife\r\nSanctuary, Uttarakhand, comprising 11 species belonging to 11 genera, 5 subfamilies and 2 families of superfamily\r\nScarabaeoidea. All the species are recorded for the first time from the sanctuary while three species viz. Anomala\r\ncantori (Hope), Mimela passerinii Hope, and Oryctes nasicornis (Linnaeus) are new records to the fauna of Uttarakhand.\r\nAn updated checklist of the scarab beetles under superfamily Scarabaeoidea of Uttarakhand comprising about 167\r\nspecies belonging to 52 genera, 21 tribes, 9 subfamilies and 3 families is also provided.','Scarabaeid beetles, Govind Wildlife Sanctuary, Uttarakhand, Updated checklist.','The paper presents faunal account of a small collection of scarab beetles from Govind Wildlife\r\nSanctuary, Uttarakhand, comprising 11 species belonging to 11 genera, 5 subfamilies and 2 families of superfamily\r\nScarabaeoidea. All the species are recorded for the first time from the sanctuary while three species viz. Anomala\r\ncantori (Hope), Mimela passerinii Hope, and Oryctes nasicornis (Linnaeus) are new records to the fauna of Uttarakhand.\r\nAn updated checklist of the scarab beetles under superfamily Scarabaeoidea of Uttarakhand comprising about 167\r\nspecies belonging to 52 genera, 21 tribes, 9 subfamilies and 3 families is also provided.','INTRODUCTION\r\nLamellicorn scarab beetles are the most diverse and\r\nwidely distributed insects which belong to the largest order\r\nColeoptera under superfamily Scarabaeoidea which includes\r\napproximately 31,000 species worldwide of which the family\r\nScarabaeidae is composed of about 91% of all scarabaeoids\r\nand represented by 27,800 species worldwide (Jameson and\r\nRatcliffe 2001). Unlike the other groups of insects, the\r\nmembers of the family Scarabaeidae contains both beneficial\r\n(coprophagous) and harmful (phytophagous) beetles. Among\r\nwhich coprophagous beetles, through their habitat of\r\nburrowing and burying of dung, perform a series of\r\necological functions such as nutrient cycling, soil aeration\r\n(Mittal, 1993), secondary seed dispersal (Estrada and Coates-\r\nEstrada, 1991 & Larsen, 2004) and regulation of enteric\r\nparasites and dung breeding dipterans pests (Borenmissza,\r\n1970 & Fincher, 1981). On the other hand phytophagous\r\nones or leaf-chafers are agricultural pests of various\r\ncommercial crops, feeding mostly on leaves, flowers, fruits,\r\nroots and other parts of the plants.\r\nThe first comprehensive account on the scarabaeid\r\nbeetles of the Indian region was published by Arrow (1910,\r\n1917, and 1931) in three volumes of Fauna of British India\r\nwhere in 72 species were reported from Uttarakhand. Later\r\nMittal (1998) published an annotated list of the scarab fauna\r\nof Western Uttar Pradesh and recorded 151 species of these\r\nbeetles belonging to 41 genera and 12 subfamilies. Recently\r\nMittal (2005) also gave the diversity and conservation status\r\nof 136 species of Laparostict Scarabaeidae belonging to 26\r\ngenera and 8 subfamilies from North India. Subsequently\r\nChatterjee (2010) while studying the scarab beetle fauna of\r\nUttarakhand reported 44 species belonging to 16 genera and\r\n3 subfamilies.\r\nThe present study includes faunal account of a small\r\ncollection of the scarab beetles of Govind Wildlife Sanctuary,\r\nUttarakhand comprising 11 species belonging to 11 genera,\r\n5 subfamilies and 2 families of superfamily Scarabaeoidea\r\n(Plate 1). These species are recorded for the first time from\r\nthe sanctuary while three species viz. Anomala cantori\r\n(Hope), Mimela passerinii Hope, and Oryctes nasicornis\r\n(Linnaeus) are new record to the fauna of Uttarakhand. The\r\npaper also includes an updated checklist of the scarab\r\nbeetles of Uttarakhand comprising 167 species belonging to\r\n52 genera, 21 tribes, 9 subfamilies and 3 families of\r\nsuperfamily Scarabaeoidea.\r\nMATERIAL AND METHODS\r\nStudy area. Govind Wildlife Sanctuary is located in\r\nUttarakashi district of Garhwal in the state of Uttarakhand\r\nand lies in between 35°55 and 31°17.30 latitudes and 77°47.30\r\nand 78°37.30 longitudes at Purola tehsil. The sanctuary was\r\nestablished on 1st of March 1955 and spreads over an area\r\nof 957.969 sq km.\r\nThe beetle specimens for the present study were\r\ncollected using light trap and preserved dry pinned. The\r\nbeetles were then identified with help of available literature\r\n(Arrow, 1910; 1917; 1931 and Kuijten, 1983) and matched\r\nwith the reference collections present in Zoological Survey\r\nof India, Jabalpur. The details of material examined and\r\ndistribution of the newly recorded scarab beetles from the\r\nsanctuary is provided along with the species photographs\r\n(Plate 1). The classification adopted in the article is after\r\nSmith (2006) Voucher specimens are deposited in Zoological\r\nSurvey of India, Jabalpur, Madhya Pradesh.\r\nChandra, Gupta, Uniyal, Bharadwaj and Sanyal 49\r\nOBSERVATIONS\r\nSystematic account\r\nOrder: Coleoptera Linnaeus, 1758\r\nSuborder: Polyphaga Emery, 1886\r\nSuper family: Scarabaeoidea Latreille, 1802\r\nFamily: Hybosoridae Erichson, 1847\r\nI. Subfamily: Hybosorinae Erichson, 1847\r\n1. Hybosorus orientalis Westwood, 1845\r\n1845. Hybosorus orientalis Westwood, Trans. Ent. Soc.\r\nLond., 6 : 159.\r\nMaterial examined: Uttarakhand, Garhwal, (GWLS),\r\n10.xii.2009 (1ex.), Coll. Manish Bharadwaj.\r\nDistribution: India: Bihar, Haryana, Himachal Pradesh,\r\nKerala, Madhya Pradesh, Maharashtra, Orissa, Punjab,\r\nRajasthan, Sikkim, Tamil Nadu, Uttar Pradesh, Uttarakhand,\r\nand West Bengal. Elsewhere: England, Pakistan, Nepal, and\r\nU.S.A.\r\nFamily: Scarabaeidae Latreille, 1802\r\nI. Subfamily: Scarabaeinae Latreille, 1802\r\n2. Oniticellus (Oniticellus) cinctus (Fabricius, 1775)\r\n1775. Scarabaeus cinctus Fabricius, Syst. Ent. : 30.\r\n1931. Oniticellus cinctus, Arrow, Faun. Brit. India,\r\n(Lamellicornia : Coprinae) 3 : 379-380.\r\n1963. Oniticellus (Oniticellus) cinctus, Balthasar, Mon.\r\nder Scarabaeidae und Aphodiidae der Palaeark. und\r\nOrientalis. Region (Coleoptera : Lamellicornia), Coprinae, II:\r\n77.\r\nMaterial examined: Uttarakhand, Garhwal, (GWLS),\r\n10.xii.2009 (1ex.), Coll. Manish Bharadwaj.\r\nDistribution: India: Haryana, Himachal Pradesh, Madhya\r\nPradesh, Maharashtra, Tamil Nadu, Uttarakhand, Uttar\r\nPradesh, and West Bengal.\r\n3. Liatongus gagatinus Hope, 1831\r\n1831. Liatongus gagatinus Hope, Gray\'s Zool. Misc. :\r\n22.\r\n1931. Liatongus gagatinus, Arrow, Faun. Brit. India,\r\n(Lamellicornia : Coprinae) 3 : 365-366.\r\n1963. Liatongus gagatinus, Balthasar, Mon. der\r\nScarabaeidae und Aphodiidae der Palaeark. und Orientalis.\r\nRegion (Coleoptera : Lamellicornia), Coprinae, II: 104.\r\nMaterial examined: Uttarakhand, Garhwal, (GWLS),\r\n08.vii.2009 (1ex.), Coll. A. K. Sanyal.\r\nDistribution: India: Arunachal Pradesh, Assam,\r\nMeghalaya, Nagaland, Sikkim, Uttarakhand and West Bengal.\r\nElsewhere: Myanmar and Nepal.\r\nII. Subfamily: Rutelinae MacLeay, 1819\r\n4. Anomala cantori (Hope, 1840)\r\n1840. Euchlora cantori Hope, Mag. Nat. Hist. iv : 284.\r\n1917. Anomala cantori: Arrow, Faun. Brit. India\r\n(Lamellicornia: Rutelinae), 2 : 220.\r\nMaterial examined: Uttarakhand, Garhwal, (GWLS),\r\n10.xii.2009 (1ex.), Coll. Manish Bharadwaj.\r\nDistribution: India: Assam, Himachal Pradesh, Haryana,\r\nMadhya Pradesh, Uttarakhand and West Bengal. Elsewhere:\r\nMyanmar.\r\n5. Popillia cyanea Hope, 1831\r\n1831. Popillia cyanea Hope,* Gray\'s Zool. Miscell. :\r\n23.\r\n1917. Popillia cyanea: Arrow, Faun. Brit. India\r\n(Lamellicornia: Rutelinae), 2 : 62.\r\nMaterial examined: Uttarakhand, Garhwal, (GWLS),\r\n10.xii.2009 (1ex.), Coll. Manish Bharadwaj.\r\nDistribution: India: Arunachal Pradesh, Assam, Himachal\r\nPradesh, Jammu & Kashmir, Punjab, Sikkim, Uttarakhand and\r\nWest Bengal. Elsewhere: Nepal.\r\n6. Mimela passerinii Hope, 1842\r\n1842. Mimela passerinii Hope,* Proc. Linn. Soc. I :\r\n128.\r\n1917. Mimela passerinii, Arrow, Faun. Brit. India\r\n(Lamellicornia: Rutelinae), 2 : 105.\r\nMaterial examined: Uttarakhand, Garhwal, (GWLS),\r\n10.xii.2009 (1ex.), Coll. Abesh K. Sanyal.\r\nDistribution: India: Himachal Pradesh, Kashmir,\r\nMeghalaya, Sikkim and Uttarakhand. Elsewhere: China and\r\nTibet.\r\nIII. Subfamily: Melolonthinae MacLeay, 1819\r\n7. Hilyotrogus holosericeus Redtenbacher, 1844\r\n1844. Hilyotrogus holosericeus Redtenbacher, in Hugel\r\nReise Kaschmir IV, 2 : 524.\r\nMaterial examined: Uttarakhand, Garhwal, (GWLS),\r\n07.xii.2009 (1ex. ), Coll. Manish Bhardwaj.\r\nDistribution: India: Himachal Pradesh, Kashmir and\r\nUttarakhand.\r\n8. Holotrichia longipennis Blanchard, 1850\r\n1850. Holotrichia longipennis Blanchard, Cat. Coll. Ent.\r\nI. : 140.','Kailash Chandra, Devanshu Gupta, V.P. Uniyal, Manish Bharadwaj\r\nand Abesh K. Sanyal. Studies on Scarabaeid Beetles (Coleoptera) of Govind Wildlife Sanctuary, Garhwal, Uttarakhand, India. Biological Forum — An International Journal, 4(1): 48-54.'),(4472,'123','New Report of Pseudocercospora Speg on Some Medicinal Plants\r\nform Sonebhadra Forest U.P.','Archana Singh','12 DR ARCHANA.pdf','',1,'Description and illustrations are provided for six new report of Pseudocercopora viz Ps. adinicola\r\non living leaves of Adina cordifolia (Roxb.) Hook (Rubiaceae), Ps. anogeissi on living leaves of Anogeissus pendula\r\nEdgew. (Combretaceae), Ps. formosana on living leaves of Lantana camara Linn. (Verbenaceae), Ps. malloti on living\r\nleaves of Mallotus philippinensis Muel (Euphorbiaceae), Ps. withaniae on living leaves of Withania somnifera\r\nDunnal (Solanaceae), Ps. sydowiana on living leaves of Woodfordia fruticosa (Linn) Jourz. (Lythraceae) from\r\nSonebhadra forest U.P.','Foliar fungi, hyphomycetes, morphotaxonomy, Pseudocercospora','Description and illustrations are provided for six new report of Pseudocercopora viz Ps. adinicola\r\non living leaves of Adina cordifolia (Roxb.) Hook (Rubiaceae), Ps. anogeissi on living leaves of Anogeissus pendula\r\nEdgew. (Combretaceae), Ps. formosana on living leaves of Lantana camara Linn. (Verbenaceae), Ps. malloti on living\r\nleaves of Mallotus philippinensis Muel (Euphorbiaceae), Ps. withaniae on living leaves of Withania somnifera\r\nDunnal (Solanaceae), Ps. sydowiana on living leaves of Woodfordia fruticosa (Linn) Jourz. (Lythraceae) from\r\nSonebhadra forest U.P.','INTRODUCTION\r\nSonebhadra district lies in extreme south east of Uttar\r\nPradesh. It is the second largest district of Uttar Pradesh.\r\nSonebhadra forest is one of the less studied regions of\r\nIndia. This area exhibits a great diversity with large number\r\nof medicinal plants. The forest of Sonebhadra is tropical,\r\ndry deciduous type. The maximum Sonebhadra region\r\ncovered by laterite soil it consist of iron bricks, in local\r\nlanguage it is called \'Murram\'. The climatic conditions of\r\nthe area are congenial for the growth of different foliicolous\r\nfungi and for the infection of the medicinal plants of the\r\narea. The genus Pseudocercospora encountered in this\r\nregion causing infection on living leaves of Adina cordifolia\r\n(Roxb.) Hook (Rubiaceae), Anogeissus pendula Edgew.\r\n(Combretaceae), Lantana camara Linn. (Verbenaceae),\r\nMallotus philippinensis Muel (Euphorbiaceae), Withania\r\nsomnifera Dunnal (Solanaceae), Woodfordia fruticosa (Linn)\r\nJourz. (Lythraceae) respectively are described and illustrated\r\nin this communication.\r\nMATERIALS AND METHODS\r\nInfected leaves having distinct symptoms (Fig.7) were\r\ncollected and dried to make herbarium specimens, a part of\r\nwhich was deposited in the Herbarium Cryptogamiae Indiae\r\nOrientalis, IARI, New Delhi, as type materials. Microscopic\r\nslides were prepared in lactophenol and cotton blue mixture\r\nfrom the scrapping taken from the infected leaf portions.\r\nThe mounted slides were examined and Camera Lucida\r\ndrawings made by using different powers of eye pieces and\r\nobjective combinations. The taxonomic determinations were\r\nmade with the help of relevant literature. (Vasudeva, 1963;\r\nCrous and Braun, 2003; Kamal, 2010; Hsieh andGoh 1990;\r\nGoh and Hsieh 1995) for confirming the identity of the\r\nPseudocercospora species encountered. Beside aforesaid\r\nliterature the ‘‘Index of Fungi’’ published regularly from\r\nC.A.B. International Mycological Institute Kew England, and\r\ntwo website www.mycobank.org/mycotaxo.aspx and\r\nwww.indexfungorum.org/names/names.asp were also taken in\r\naccount.\r\nRESULT AND DISCUSSION\r\n1. Pseudocercospora adinicola (A. K. Kar and M. Mandal)\r\nDeighton, Mycol. Pap. 140:138, 1976. (Fig. 1)\r\nº Cercospora adinicola A.K. Kar & Mandal, Indian\r\nPhytopathol. 26: 76 (1973)1975\r\nº Cercocladospora adinicola (A.K. Kar & Mandal)\r\nJ.L.Mulder, Trans. Brit. Mycol. Soc. 67: 151, 1976\r\nLeaf spots amphigenous, grayish brown, angular, vein\r\nlimited, later coalescing becoming irregular, covering the\r\nwhole leaf surface. Colonies hyphophyllous, effuse.\r\nMycelium superficial, external hyphae septate, branched,\r\nsmooth walled, light olivaceous, 1-3 μm wide. Stromata\r\nabsent. Conidiophores arising singly from external hyphae\r\nas lateral or terminal branches, micronematous to\r\nsemimicronematous, mononematous, unbranched to rarely\r\nbranched, thin and smooth walled, erect, straight to flexuous,\r\ncylindrical, 1-5 transversely septate, sometimes geniculate,\r\nlight olivaceous, 7-33 × 2-3 μm. Conidiogenous cells\r\nintegrated terminal,cylindrical, sympodial, polyblastic,\r\ncicatrized, scars conspicuously thickened. Conidia dry,\r\nholoblastic, acropleurogenous, solitary to catenate, simple\r\nto branched chains, obclavatocylindrical, straight to curved,\r\nsmooth walled, pale olivaceous, 0-5 transversely septate, tip\r\nsubacute, base obconicotruncate, hilum conspicuous and\r\nslightly thickened 15-62 × 2-4 μm.\r\nFrom living leaves of Adina cordifolia (Roxb.) Hook\r\n(Rubiaceae) Rihand dam forest, Pipari, Sonebhadra, U.P. India\r\nNov. 2009, Archana Singh, BHU Herb No. AS/9053, HCIO\r\nNo.50126.','Archana Singh (2012). New Report of Pseudocercospora Speg on Some Medicinal Plants form Sonebhadra Forest U.P.Biological Forum — An International Journal, 4(1): 61-67.'),(4473,'123','Distribution and Diversity of Hemiptera Fauna of Veerangana\r\nDurgavati Wildlife Sanctuary, Damoh, Madhya Pradesh (India)','Kailash Chandra*, Sandeep Kushwaha, S. Sambath and B. Biswas','13 SANDEEP KUSHWAHA.pdf','',1,'The present paper is based on a collection of Hemiptera from Veerangana Durgavati Wildlife\r\nSanctuary by different tour party of Zoological Survey of India, Jabalpur. It comprises 24 species distributed\r\namong 23 genera over 9 families.','Veerangana Durgavati Wildlife Sanctuary, Damoh, Hemiptera and Madhya Pradesh.','The present paper is based on a collection of Hemiptera from Veerangana Durgavati Wildlife\r\nSanctuary by different tour party of Zoological Survey of India, Jabalpur. It comprises 24 species distributed\r\namong 23 genera over 9 families.','INTRODUCTION\r\nVeerangana Durgavati Wildlife Sanctuary (VDWLS)\r\ncovering an area of 24 Km2 was declared vide Govt. of\r\nMadhya Pradesh (Diwedi 2003). The sanctuary is situated\r\non state highway number 36 midway between Jabalpur and\r\nDamoh (approximately 50 Km either way) within 23°35\' N\r\nlatitudes and 79°40\' and 79°50\' E longitudes. The\r\ntopography of WLS is hilly. The sanctuary presents of\r\nmosaic of all kinds of habitat. Some streams have water\r\npool. Ratankund is such important pool. The Sanctuary has\r\na variety of natural assets and wonderful settings of\r\nArcheological monuments of Singoragarh. The vegetation\r\nof the sanctuary area is mainly tropical mixed dry deciduous\r\nforest. The most common species are Bija (Pterocarpus\r\nmarsupium), Saja (Terminalia alata), Dhaora (Anogeisus\r\nlatifolia), Mahua (Madhuca indica), Palas (Butea\r\nmonosperma) and Lendia, (Lagerstroemia parviflora).\r\nHemipteran insects that are usually called as ‘true bugs’\r\nare of great economic importance as most of them are pests\r\nof various commercial crops. The members of the group\r\nshow hemimetabolous type of metamorphosis as the\r\nnymphal stages having great resemblance in structure with\r\nthat of adult (Ghosh and Biswas 1995). A detailed account\r\nof Hemiptera fauna of central India had been done by\r\nDistant (1904a and b). Later on brief account of this order\r\nwere described by Ghosh and Biswas, 1995, Ramakrishna\r\net al. 2006, Chandra 2008 and 2009 respectively.\r\nMATERIAL AND METHODS\r\nDuring the years 2009-2011, six surveys of VDWLS were\r\nundertaken by the scientific team of Zoological Survey of\r\nIndia, Jabalpur. 106 specimens of bugs were collected using\r\nlight trap and hand picking methods from various localities\r\nviz. Giridarshan, Sajtalya, Bhaisaghat, Danital, Tilgua,\r\nSangrampur, Chota Chakkar. Nidankund, Kola-Nala etc.,\r\nCollection were pinned and identified by with the help of\r\nLeica M205-A Stereo zoom microscope. Photographs were\r\ntaken by Sony DSC-W55 Camera.\r\nSTUDYAREA\r\nSYSTEMATIC ACCOUNT\r\nORDER: HEMIPTERA\r\nINFRAORDER: CICADOMORPHA\r\nSUPERFAMILY: CERCOPOIDEA\r\nFAMILY: CERCOPIDAE\r\n1. Callitettix versicolor (Fabricius), 1794\r\n1794. Callitettix versicolor Fabricius, Ent.Syst. iv: 50.\r\n1908. Callitettix versicolor Distant, Fauna Br. India, IV:\r\n113.\r\n2004. Callitettix versicolor: Biswas et al., State Fauna\r\nSeries 10: Fauna of Manipur: 244.\r\nMaterial examined: Damoh, VDWLS, Sajtaliya,\r\n24.viii.09, (1ex.), Coll. J. Thilak and Party; Bhaisaghat, 8. ix.\r\n10, (1 ex.) Coll. K. Chandra and Party.\r\nDistribution: India; Madhya Pradesh, Bihar, Kashmir,\r\nMaharashtra, Sikkim, Tamil Nadu, Uttar Pradesh and West\r\nBengal. Elsewhere: Burma, China and South Eastern Asia.\r\nBiological Forum – An International Journal, Forum — An International Journal, 4(11)(:1 6):8-1724(-21071(22)009) ISSN No. (Print) : 0975-1130\r\nISSN No. (Online) : 2249-3239\r\nChandra, Kushwaha, Sambath and Biswas 69\r\nSUBORDER: HETEROPTERODEA\r\nINFRAORDER: CIMICOMORPHA\r\nSUPERFAMILY: CIMICOIDEA\r\nFAMILY: REDUVIIDAE\r\n2. Tribelocephala sp.\r\nMaterial examined: Damoh, VDWLS, Danital, 25. vi.\r\n2010, (1 ex.), Coll. J. Thilak.\r\n3. Scadra sp.\r\nMaterial examined: Damoh, VDWLS, Giri Darshan, 24.\r\nviii. 09, (1 ex.), Coll. J. Thilak.\r\nDistribution: Madhya Pradesh, Assam.\r\n4. Ectrychotes dispar Reuter, 1881\r\n1881. Ectrychotes dispar Reuter, Act. Soc. Sc. Fenn.,\r\n12: 304.\r\n1902. Ectrychotes dispar Distant, Fauna Br. India, II:\r\n315.\r\nMaterial examined: Damoh, VDWLS, Tiqua Petrol, 28.\r\nvi. 2010, (4 ex.), Coll. J. Thilak; Danital, 27. vi. 10; (1 ex.)\r\nColl. J. Thilak; Bhaisa Ghat, 26. vi. 10, (1 ex.) Coll. J. Thilak.\r\nDistribution: India; Madhya Pradesh, Andhra Pradesh,\r\nMaharashtra and West Bengal.\r\n5. Polididus armatissimus Stal, 1859\r\n1859. Polididus armatissimus Stal, Ofv. Vet.-Ak. Forh,:\r\n376.\r\n1902. Polididus armatissimus, Distant, Fauna Br. India,\r\nII: 386 - 387.\r\n2007. Polididus armatissimus: Biswas and Bal, Fauna\r\nof Andhra Pradesh: State Fauna Series 5: 336.\r\nMaterial examined: Damoh, VDWLS, Bada Chakkar, 11.\r\niii. 11; (1 ex) Coll. D.K. Harshey and Party.\r\nDistribution: India; Madhya Pradesh, Maharashtra and\r\nWest Bengal. Elsewhere: China, Japan, Myanmar, Philippines\r\nand Sri Lanka.\r\nINFRAORDER: PENTATOMORPHA\r\nSUPERFAMILY: LYGAEOIDEA\r\nFAMILY: LYGAEIDAE\r\n6. Spilostethus hospes (Fabricius), 1794\r\n1794. Lygaeus hospes Fabricius, Ent. Syst., IV:150\r\n2009. Spilostethus hospes, Ghosh, Handbook on\r\nhemiptera pest in India : 371 Zoological survey of India.\r\nMaterial examined: Damoh, VDWLS, Singorhgarh, 21.\r\nxi. 09, (1 ex.) Coll. J. Thilak.\r\nDistribution: India: Madhya Pradesh, Maharashtra,\r\nOrissa, Tamil Nadu and West Bengal. Elsewhere: Australia,\r\nChina, Malayan Archipelago, Pakistan, Sri Lanka and New\r\nCaledonia.\r\n7. Spilostethus pandurus militaris (Fabricius), 1775\r\n1775. Cimex militaris Fabricius Syst. Ent.: 717.\r\n1988. Spilostethus pandurus militaris: Mukhopadhaya,\r\nRec. Zool. Surv. India, Occ. Paper No. 107:15.\r\nMaterial examined: Damoh, VDWLS, Danital, 27. vi.\r\n10, (1 ex) Coll. J. Thilak; Giri Darsan, 13. iii. 11, (1 ex), Coll.\r\nD.K. Harshey and Party.\r\nDistribution: India: Madhya Pradesh, Karnataka,\r\nMaharashtra, Orissa, Punjab, Uttar Pradesh, and West\r\nBengal. Elsewhere: Australia, Pakistan.\r\n8. Metochus uniguttattus (Thunberg), 1822\r\n1822. Dieuches uniguttattus Thunberg, Hem. Rostr. cap.,\r\n4: 6.\r\n1902. Dieuches uniguttattus Distant, Fauna Br. India,\r\nHeteroptera, 2: 82-83.\r\n1988. Metochus uniguttatus: Mukhopadhaya, Rec. Zool.\r\nSurv. India, Occ. Paper No. 107:56.\r\nMaterial examined: Damoh, VDWLS, Giri Darsan, 13.\r\niii. 11, (1 ex) Coll. D. K. Harshey and Party.\r\nDistribution: India: Madhya Pradesh, Assam and\r\nKarnataka. Elsewhere: Myanmar, Sri Lanka.\r\nSUPERFAMILY: PYRRHOCOROIDEA\r\nFAMILY: PHYRRHOCORIDAE\r\n9. Physopelta gutta (Burmeister), 1834\r\n1834. Lygaeus (pyrrhocoris) gutta Burmeister, Nova\r\nActa Acad. Leop.Carol. XVI, suppl., 424 PI. XLI, Fig. 10.\r\n1902. Physopelta gutta: Distant Fauna Brit India II:\r\n97.\r\n1927. Physopelta gutta: Tacuber, konowia VI: 174.\r\nMaterial examined: Damoh, VDLS, Grihdarshan, 13. iii.\r\n11, (1 ex.) Coll. D.K. Harshey and Party.\r\nDistribution: India: Madhya Pradesh, Assam and West\r\nBengal. Elsewhere: Australia, Borneo, Burma, Ceylon, China,\r\nJapan, Java, Philippines and Sumatra.\r\n10. Dysdercus koenigii (Fabricius), 1775\r\n1775. Dysdercus cingulatus Fabricius, Syst. Ent. : 719.\r\n1902. Dysdercus cingulatus Distant, Fauna Br. India,\r\nII: 118.\r\n1914. Dysdercus koenigii Bergroth, Ent. Mitt. III : 335.\r\n1995. Dysdercus koenigii: Sen et al. Fauna of West\r\nBengal: State Fauna Series 3(5).\r\nMaterial examined: Damoh, VDLS, Grih Darsan, 13. iii.\r\n11, (1 ex.), Coll. D.K. Harshey and Party; Damoh, VDLS,\r\nFRH, 18. xi. 09, (1 ex), Coll. J. Thilak.\r\nDistribution: India: Assam, Karnataka, Sikkim and West\r\nBengal Elsewhere: Pakistan, Sri Lanka.','Kailash Chandra*, Sandeep Kushwaha, S. Sambath and B. Biswas (2012).Distribution and Diversity of Hemiptera Fauna of Veerangana\r\nDurgavati Wildlife Sanctuary, Damoh, Madhya Pradesh (India).Biological Forum – An International Journal, Forum — An International Journal, 4(11)(:1 6):8-172'),(4474,'123','Distribution and Diversity of Hemiptera Fauna of Veerangana\r\nDurgavati Wildlife Sanctuary, Damoh, Madhya Pradesh (India)','Kailash Chandra*, Sandeep Kushwaha, S. Sambath and B. Biswas','13 SANDEEP KUSHWAHA.pdf','',1,'The present paper is based on a collection of Hemiptera from Veerangana Durgavati Wildlife\r\nSanctuary by different tour party of Zoological Survey of India, Jabalpur. It comprises 24 species distributed\r\namong 23 genera over 9 families.','Veerangana Durgavati Wildlife Sanctuary, Damoh, Hemiptera and Madhya Pradesh.','The present paper is based on a collection of Hemiptera from Veerangana Durgavati Wildlife\r\nSanctuary by different tour party of Zoological Survey of India, Jabalpur. It comprises 24 species distributed\r\namong 23 genera over 9 families.','INTRODUCTION\r\nVeerangana Durgavati Wildlife Sanctuary (VDWLS)\r\ncovering an area of 24 Km2 was declared vide Govt. of\r\nMadhya Pradesh (Diwedi 2003). The sanctuary is situated\r\non state highway number 36 midway between Jabalpur and\r\nDamoh (approximately 50 Km either way) within 23°35\' N\r\nlatitudes and 79°40\' and 79°50\' E longitudes. The\r\ntopography of WLS is hilly. The sanctuary presents of\r\nmosaic of all kinds of habitat. Some streams have water\r\npool. Ratankund is such important pool. The Sanctuary has\r\na variety of natural assets and wonderful settings of\r\nArcheological monuments of Singoragarh. The vegetation\r\nof the sanctuary area is mainly tropical mixed dry deciduous\r\nforest. The most common species are Bija (Pterocarpus\r\nmarsupium), Saja (Terminalia alata), Dhaora (Anogeisus\r\nlatifolia), Mahua (Madhuca indica), Palas (Butea\r\nmonosperma) and Lendia, (Lagerstroemia parviflora).\r\nHemipteran insects that are usually called as ‘true bugs’\r\nare of great economic importance as most of them are pests\r\nof various commercial crops. The members of the group\r\nshow hemimetabolous type of metamorphosis as the\r\nnymphal stages having great resemblance in structure with\r\nthat of adult (Ghosh and Biswas 1995). A detailed account\r\nof Hemiptera fauna of central India had been done by\r\nDistant (1904a and b). Later on brief account of this order\r\nwere described by Ghosh and Biswas, 1995, Ramakrishna\r\net al. 2006, Chandra 2008 and 2009 respectively.\r\nMATERIAL AND METHODS\r\nDuring the years 2009-2011, six surveys of VDWLS were\r\nundertaken by the scientific team of Zoological Survey of\r\nIndia, Jabalpur. 106 specimens of bugs were collected using\r\nlight trap and hand picking methods from various localities\r\nviz. Giridarshan, Sajtalya, Bhaisaghat, Danital, Tilgua,\r\nSangrampur, Chota Chakkar. Nidankund, Kola-Nala etc.,\r\nCollection were pinned and identified by with the help of\r\nLeica M205-A Stereo zoom microscope. Photographs were\r\ntaken by Sony DSC-W55 Camera.\r\nSTUDYAREA\r\nSYSTEMATIC ACCOUNT\r\nORDER: HEMIPTERA\r\nINFRAORDER: CICADOMORPHA\r\nSUPERFAMILY: CERCOPOIDEA\r\nFAMILY: CERCOPIDAE\r\n1. Callitettix versicolor (Fabricius), 1794\r\n1794. Callitettix versicolor Fabricius, Ent.Syst. iv: 50.\r\n1908. Callitettix versicolor Distant, Fauna Br. India, IV:\r\n113.\r\n2004. Callitettix versicolor: Biswas et al., State Fauna\r\nSeries 10: Fauna of Manipur: 244.\r\nMaterial examined: Damoh, VDWLS, Sajtaliya,\r\n24.viii.09, (1ex.), Coll. J. Thilak and Party; Bhaisaghat, 8. ix.\r\n10, (1 ex.) Coll. K. Chandra and Party.\r\nDistribution: India; Madhya Pradesh, Bihar, Kashmir,\r\nMaharashtra, Sikkim, Tamil Nadu, Uttar Pradesh and West\r\nBengal. Elsewhere: Burma, China and South Eastern Asia.\r\nBiological Forum – An International Journal, Forum — An International Journal, 4(11)(:1 6):8-1724(-21071(22)009) ISSN No. (Print) : 0975-1130\r\nISSN No. (Online) : 2249-3239\r\nChandra, Kushwaha, Sambath and Biswas 69\r\nSUBORDER: HETEROPTERODEA\r\nINFRAORDER: CIMICOMORPHA\r\nSUPERFAMILY: CIMICOIDEA\r\nFAMILY: REDUVIIDAE\r\n2. Tribelocephala sp.\r\nMaterial examined: Damoh, VDWLS, Danital, 25. vi.\r\n2010, (1 ex.), Coll. J. Thilak.\r\n3. Scadra sp.\r\nMaterial examined: Damoh, VDWLS, Giri Darshan, 24.\r\nviii. 09, (1 ex.), Coll. J. Thilak.\r\nDistribution: Madhya Pradesh, Assam.\r\n4. Ectrychotes dispar Reuter, 1881\r\n1881. Ectrychotes dispar Reuter, Act. Soc. Sc. Fenn.,\r\n12: 304.\r\n1902. Ectrychotes dispar Distant, Fauna Br. India, II:\r\n315.\r\nMaterial examined: Damoh, VDWLS, Tiqua Petrol, 28.\r\nvi. 2010, (4 ex.), Coll. J. Thilak; Danital, 27. vi. 10; (1 ex.)\r\nColl. J. Thilak; Bhaisa Ghat, 26. vi. 10, (1 ex.) Coll. J. Thilak.\r\nDistribution: India; Madhya Pradesh, Andhra Pradesh,\r\nMaharashtra and West Bengal.\r\n5. Polididus armatissimus Stal, 1859\r\n1859. Polididus armatissimus Stal, Ofv. Vet.-Ak. Forh,:\r\n376.\r\n1902. Polididus armatissimus, Distant, Fauna Br. India,\r\nII: 386 - 387.\r\n2007. Polididus armatissimus: Biswas and Bal, Fauna\r\nof Andhra Pradesh: State Fauna Series 5: 336.\r\nMaterial examined: Damoh, VDWLS, Bada Chakkar, 11.\r\niii. 11; (1 ex) Coll. D.K. Harshey and Party.\r\nDistribution: India; Madhya Pradesh, Maharashtra and\r\nWest Bengal. Elsewhere: China, Japan, Myanmar, Philippines\r\nand Sri Lanka.\r\nINFRAORDER: PENTATOMORPHA\r\nSUPERFAMILY: LYGAEOIDEA\r\nFAMILY: LYGAEIDAE\r\n6. Spilostethus hospes (Fabricius), 1794\r\n1794. Lygaeus hospes Fabricius, Ent. Syst., IV:150\r\n2009. Spilostethus hospes, Ghosh, Handbook on\r\nhemiptera pest in India : 371 Zoological survey of India.\r\nMaterial examined: Damoh, VDWLS, Singorhgarh, 21.\r\nxi. 09, (1 ex.) Coll. J. Thilak.\r\nDistribution: India: Madhya Pradesh, Maharashtra,\r\nOrissa, Tamil Nadu and West Bengal. Elsewhere: Australia,\r\nChina, Malayan Archipelago, Pakistan, Sri Lanka and New\r\nCaledonia.\r\n7. Spilostethus pandurus militaris (Fabricius), 1775\r\n1775. Cimex militaris Fabricius Syst. Ent.: 717.\r\n1988. Spilostethus pandurus militaris: Mukhopadhaya,\r\nRec. Zool. Surv. India, Occ. Paper No. 107:15.\r\nMaterial examined: Damoh, VDWLS, Danital, 27. vi.\r\n10, (1 ex) Coll. J. Thilak; Giri Darsan, 13. iii. 11, (1 ex), Coll.\r\nD.K. Harshey and Party.\r\nDistribution: India: Madhya Pradesh, Karnataka,\r\nMaharashtra, Orissa, Punjab, Uttar Pradesh, and West\r\nBengal. Elsewhere: Australia, Pakistan.\r\n8. Metochus uniguttattus (Thunberg), 1822\r\n1822. Dieuches uniguttattus Thunberg, Hem. Rostr. cap.,\r\n4: 6.\r\n1902. Dieuches uniguttattus Distant, Fauna Br. India,\r\nHeteroptera, 2: 82-83.\r\n1988. Metochus uniguttatus: Mukhopadhaya, Rec. Zool.\r\nSurv. India, Occ. Paper No. 107:56.\r\nMaterial examined: Damoh, VDWLS, Giri Darsan, 13.\r\niii. 11, (1 ex) Coll. D. K. Harshey and Party.\r\nDistribution: India: Madhya Pradesh, Assam and\r\nKarnataka. Elsewhere: Myanmar, Sri Lanka.\r\nSUPERFAMILY: PYRRHOCOROIDEA\r\nFAMILY: PHYRRHOCORIDAE\r\n9. Physopelta gutta (Burmeister), 1834\r\n1834. Lygaeus (pyrrhocoris) gutta Burmeister, Nova\r\nActa Acad. Leop.Carol. XVI, suppl., 424 PI. XLI, Fig. 10.\r\n1902. Physopelta gutta: Distant Fauna Brit India II:\r\n97.\r\n1927. Physopelta gutta: Tacuber, konowia VI: 174.\r\nMaterial examined: Damoh, VDLS, Grihdarshan, 13. iii.\r\n11, (1 ex.) Coll. D.K. Harshey and Party.\r\nDistribution: India: Madhya Pradesh, Assam and West\r\nBengal. Elsewhere: Australia, Borneo, Burma, Ceylon, China,\r\nJapan, Java, Philippines and Sumatra.\r\n10. Dysdercus koenigii (Fabricius), 1775\r\n1775. Dysdercus cingulatus Fabricius, Syst. Ent. : 719.\r\n1902. Dysdercus cingulatus Distant, Fauna Br. India,\r\nII: 118.\r\n1914. Dysdercus koenigii Bergroth, Ent. Mitt. III : 335.\r\n1995. Dysdercus koenigii: Sen et al. Fauna of West\r\nBengal: State Fauna Series 3(5).\r\nMaterial examined: Damoh, VDLS, Grih Darsan, 13. iii.\r\n11, (1 ex.), Coll. D.K. Harshey and Party; Damoh, VDLS,\r\nFRH, 18. xi. 09, (1 ex), Coll. J. Thilak.\r\nDistribution: India: Assam, Karnataka, Sikkim and West\r\nBengal Elsewhere: Pakistan, Sri Lanka.','Kailash Chandra*, Sandeep Kushwaha, S. Sambath and B. Biswas (2012).Distribution and Diversity of Hemiptera Fauna of Veerangana\r\nDurgavati Wildlife Sanctuary, Damoh, Madhya Pradesh (India).Biological Forum – An International Journal, Forum — An International Journal, 4(11)(:1 6):8-172'),(4475,'123','Protein Efficiency Ratio (PER) of Ctenopharengedon idella Fed on\r\nSoyabean Formualted Feed','M.P. Bhilave*, S.V. Bhosale* and S.B. Nadaf*','15 MP BHILAVE.pdf','',1,'Aquaculture is a dynamic industry that continues to provide consumers with a reasonably priced,\r\nhigh quality protein. The impact that any aquaculture system has on the environment, is today, and will continue\r\nto be, in the forefront when environmental issues are discussed. A better understanding of the dietary nutrient\r\nrequirements of cultured fish species and a continual search for accessible, highly digestible proteins to replace\r\nexpensive fishmeal is essential. This approach coupled with applying the ideal protein concept in the formulation\r\nof fish feeds can greatly ameliorate nitrogen pollution arising from fish production systems and increase\r\nprofitability. Taking into account this consideration, the present investigation is carried out to evaluate protein\r\nefficiency ratio in freshwater fish Ctenopharengedon idella fed on different combinations of feeds formulated from\r\nreadily available protein sources like soyabean and deoiled groundnut cake. The fishes fed on 100% formulated\r\nfeed had highest PER values than other feeds.','Formulated feed, Ctenopharengedon idella, PER.','Aquaculture is a dynamic industry that continues to provide consumers with a reasonably priced,\r\nhigh quality protein. The impact that any aquaculture system has on the environment, is today, and will continue\r\nto be, in the forefront when environmental issues are discussed. A better understanding of the dietary nutrient\r\nrequirements of cultured fish species and a continual search for accessible, highly digestible proteins to replace\r\nexpensive fishmeal is essential. This approach coupled with applying the ideal protein concept in the formulation\r\nof fish feeds can greatly ameliorate nitrogen pollution arising from fish production systems and increase\r\nprofitability. Taking into account this consideration, the present investigation is carried out to evaluate protein\r\nefficiency ratio in freshwater fish Ctenopharengedon idella fed on different combinations of feeds formulated from\r\nreadily available protein sources like soyabean and deoiled groundnut cake. The fishes fed on 100% formulated\r\nfeed had highest PER values than other feeds.','INTRODUCTION\r\nSustainable fish culture is a formulated feed-based\r\nindustry. Fish feeds constitute the major fraction of the\r\noperational cost in both intensive and semi-intensive culture\r\nsystems globally. Protein is the major item of formulated\r\nfeeds. It is required in large quantity by many cultivable\r\nfishes. Protein requirement of fishes is uniformly high\r\nirrespective of their food habits and ranging from 35 to 70%\r\ndry weight of the feed. Growth in cultivable fishes is primarily\r\ninfluenced by quality (amino acid composition) and quantity\r\nof proteins in the formulated feeds, compared to other\r\nfarmed animals. Conventional fish meal continues to be a\r\nprimary protein source in formulated feeds. But its rising\r\ncost, uncertain unreliable qualities have led to the scientific\r\nsearch for alternative sources. The utility of plant protein\r\nsources (PPS) to completely or partly replace the fish-meal\r\nis being researched meticulously. The high protein level\r\nrequired by fish for maximum growth has been established.\r\nGrowth of fishes and utilization of feed are reported to be\r\noptimal with proteins of animal origin, mainly fish meal\r\ncharacterized by being of high nutritive value (Dabrowska\r\nand Wojno, 1977). The high price of fish meal and shortage\r\non the world markets have made it necessary to look for\r\nsubstitutes (Tacon and Jackson 1985; Webster et al. 1992).\r\nUnfortunately, attempts to replace the fish meal component\r\nof practical fish feeds with alternative protein sources have\r\nresulted in only variable success and have generally led to\r\nreduced feed efficiency and growth (Tacon and Jackson,\r\n1985). Regardless of the limited success, the formulation of\r\nfeeds containing high levels of plant proteins has become\r\nan important objective in fish nutrition research.\r\nMATERIALS AND METHODS\r\nChoice of ingredients to be used in feed formulation\r\nshould be based on their qualities such as protein content,\r\nenergy level, types of amino acids etc. Since fish feeds\r\ncontain high protein levels, protein sources are key\r\ningredients. Proteins are made of amino acids and these are\r\nwhat the fish truly requires. Protein is the main constituent\r\nof the fish body soyabean is higher in proteins than any\r\nother plant sources; hence rich protein plant source\r\nsoyabean is selected as basic ingredient in feed formulation.\r\nThe other ingredients such as milk powder, corn flour, eggs,\r\ncod liver oil, vitamin mixture containing vitamin B Complex\r\nand E, agar powder, garlic paste, pepper powder, and cumin\r\npowder were used.\r\nPreparation of Feed. Soyabean meal (80 gm) was taken in\r\npowder form as principal ingredients. Other ingredients like\r\nmilk powder (60 gm), corn flour (20 gm), and eggs (70 gm)\r\nwere added and mixed well. Agar powder (4 gm) was added\r\nas binding agent; turmeric (0.5 gm) and garlic (1 gm) as\r\nantibiotics. The said mixture was boiled, cooled at room\r\ntemperature. After cooling cod liver oil (3.5 ml), vitamin\r\nmixture of vitamin B complex (1gm) and vitamin E (1 gm)\r\nwere added. It was kept under refrigeration for 12 hrs. After\r\n12 hrs it was squeezed over polythene sheet and dried at\r\nroom temperature for 48 hrs. The dried nodules are crushed\r\ninto small pellets then pellets are sun dried to avoid fungal\r\ninfection, weighted and stored in the bottle. Following the\r\nabove procedure all the feeds were formulated in the\r\npercentage composition of 25% (soyabean meal 25% +\r\ngroundnut oil cake 75%), 50% (soyabean meal 50% +\r\ngroundnut oil cake 50%), 75% (soyabean meal 75% +\r\ngroundnut oil cake 25%), 100% formulated (totally of\r\n80 Bhilave, Bhosale and Nadaf\r\nsoyabean meal)and 100% conventional (totally of groundnut\r\noil cake).\r\nEXPERIMENTAL SET UP\r\nThe fingerlings of freshwater fishes Ctenopharengedon\r\nidella were brought to the laboratory and acclimatized for\r\ntwo weeks in glass aquaria. During acclimation adequate\r\naeration, pH and temperature was maintained from 280C to\r\n300C. The fingerlings were randomly distributed at the rate\r\nof 20 fishes per aquaria. All the five aquaria were labeled\r\ni.e.100% formulated, 75% formulated, 50% formulated, 25%\r\nformulated and 100% conventional as per the feeding. The\r\nfishes from each tank were weighted and recorded as initial\r\nweight before starting the experiment. The average initial\r\nweight in each tank was 3.82 gms, 4.05 gms, 3.10 gms, 2.78\r\ngms and 2.96 gms respectively. Feeding was carried out at\r\nthe rate of 5% of total body weight and the fishes were fed\r\nonce in a day. The weights of fishes were recorded at\r\npredetermined time intervals from each aquarium. The PER\r\nvalues were obtained by taking into account the recorded\r\nweights and introduced in given formula.\r\nProtein Efficiency Ratio (PER) is based on the weight\r\ngain of a test subject divided by its intake of a particular\r\nfood protein during the test period. PER is a widely used\r\nfor evaluating the quality of protein in feed. The feed\r\nindustry has been using PER as the standard for evaluating\r\nthe protein quality of feed. Nutritional value of protein is\r\nused as guide to the effectiveness of protein source in\r\nrequirements. PER is one of the most popular methods for\r\nquantifying the nutritional value of protein. It is an\r\nexpression which relates the gram of weight gained to the\r\ngram of crude protein fed.\r\nProtein Efficiency Ratio (PER) =\r\nTotal we-weight gain (g)\r\nDry weight of protein fed (g)\r\nRESULTS AND DISCUSSION\r\n(For all experimental fishes at each time interval the\r\nvalues shows, P £ 0.0001)\r\nDietary protein is used by fish for growth, energy and\r\nmaintenance (Kaushik and Medale, 1994). Protein requirement\r\nfor maximum growth of any species is a logical step to the\r\ndevelopment of a cost-effective feed for the fish, and entails\r\ndetermining the minimum amount required to produce\r\nmaximum growth and not be used for energy (Sang-Min\r\nand Tae-Jun, 2005). Thus, any reduction in dietary protein\r\nlevel without affecting fish growth can substantially reduce\r\nthe cost of feed. The need for protein and other nutrients\r\nin supplemental diets depends upon the levels supplied by\r\nthe natural food for a targeted production level. Thus, the\r\nincorporation of these nutrients in supplemental diets must\r\nincrease to meet the requirement of increasing fish biomass\r\n(Sumagaysay and Borlongan, 1995).Protein, essential for\r\ntissue growth and maintenance, is an expensive component\r\nof formulated diets. When insufficient energy is available in\r\na diet from non-protein sources, protein may be catabolized\r\nto meet the energy requirements at the cost of nutrient\r\nsupply (Capuzzo & Lancaster 1979; Sedgwick 1979).','M.P. Bhilave, S.V. Bhosale and S.B. Nadaf (2012). Protein Efficiency Ratio (PER) of Ctenopharengedon idella Fed on Soyabean Formualted Feed. Biological Forum — An International Journal, 4(1): 79-81.'),(4476,'123','Comparision of Midgut Trehalase Characteristics in Bivoltine\r\nand Multivoltine Bombyx mori L.','N.T. Pawar, Y.S. Muniv, G.P. Bhawane and A.A. Kanase','16 NT PAWAR.pdf','',1,'The optimal pH of midgut trehalase from CSR2 and Kolar gold (PM X CSR2) were 5.5 the 50%\r\ninactivation time for trehalase at 60°C were 3 min. in CSR2 and 10 min. in Kolar gold. The optimal temperature\r\nfor both races was 50°C. The Km value for CSR2 was 10.57 × 10-3 M and for Kolar gold was 3.0 × 10-3 M.','Midgut trehalase, Bombyx mori bivoltine race.','The optimal pH of midgut trehalase from CSR2 and Kolar gold (PM X CSR2) were 5.5 the 50%\r\ninactivation time for trehalase at 60°C were 3 min. in CSR2 and 10 min. in Kolar gold. The optimal temperature\r\nfor both races was 50°C. The Km value for CSR2 was 10.57 × 10-3 M and for Kolar gold was 3.0 × 10-3 M.','INTRODUCTION\r\nIn many insect trehalase is the major haemolymph sugar\r\nand serves as an indispensable substrate for energy\r\nproduction and biosynthesis of macromolecules (Wyatt 1967).\r\nThe trehalose play vital role in silkworm carbohydrate\r\nmetabolism by hydrolysis of trehalose into two glucose\r\nmoieties. It is localized in midgut, haemolymph, ovary, pupal\r\nmidgut, fat bodies, thorasic muscles etc. were studied by\r\nvarious workers (Saitto 1960, Derr 1966, Dahlman 1970, Zebe\r\n1959) in various insects. In silkworm pharate adult the\r\ntrehalase activity is extremely high in midgut than other\r\ntissue (Yamashita, 1974). The membrane bound trehalase is\r\nreported in B. mori midgut (Sumida, 1974).\r\nThe trehalase level in the haemolymph of Vth instar\r\nlarvae of three different varieties of bivoltine, multivoltine\r\nand cross breed were investigated (Sowri and Sarangi 2002).\r\nIn this article, information is presented on midgut trehalase\r\nenzyme characteristics such as specific activity, effect of\r\npH, temperature, effect of time, thermolability and substrate\r\nconcentration in bivoltine race i. e. CASR2 and multivoltine\r\nrace i.e. Kolargold (PM × CSR2) comparatively.\r\nMATERIAL AND METHODS\r\nThe DFLs of bivoltine race CSR2 and multivoltine race\r\nKolargold of B. mori were procured from Director Sericulture\r\nGovernment Grainage centre, Gadhinglaj, District Kolhapur.\r\nThe eggs were incubated at 25°C and 85% humidity and\r\nworms were reared as per recommended regimen of\r\nKrishnaswami (1978, 1979) in rearing house of Shivaji\r\nUniversity, Kolhapur.\r\nThe Vth instar larvae of both races were dissected in\r\nchilled insect ringer. The midgut was homogenized in 0.8%\r\ninsect saline. Homogenate was centrifuge at 3000 rpm for 15\r\nmin. The supernatant used as enzyme source during\r\ncharacterization study of trehalse.\r\nIn enzyme assay contained 0.5 ml supernatant, 1ml\r\nappropriate buffer, 1ml 0.25% trehalose as substrate. The\r\nmixture incubated for 1 hr at 40°C. The reaction was\r\nterminated by adding 2.5ml DNSA. The reaction mixture was\r\nheated in boiling water bath for 5 min. Then 2.5ml distilled\r\nwater was added. The developed colour was measured on\r\nspectrophotometer at 540 nm.\r\nThe pH optima determined by using appropriate buffers.\r\nThe optimum temperature was determined by incubating at\r\n10 to 70°C temperature. To determine Km values 0.125%\r\ntrehalase used as substrate and concentration of substrate\r\nvaried from 0.0125 to 0.125 mg/ml. The thermolability studies\r\nby killing the enzyme extract at various temperature. For\r\neach experiment three observations were maintained.\r\nThe protein concentration of enzyme extract was\r\ndetermined as per Lowry et al., (1951).\r\nRESULT AND DISCUSSION\r\nThe activity of midgut trehalase is associated with food\r\nintake in B. mori. The last two days of Vth instar trehalase\r\nlevel was maximum observed at VI and VII day in Bombyx\r\nmori L. (Sawri and Sarangi 2002). The pH optima of midgut\r\ntrehalase in bivoltine race CSR2 and multivoltine race Kolar\r\ngold were 5.5. The present observation is consistent with\r\nSumida and Yamashita (1977) studied in B. mori. It is quite\r\nclose to the optimal pH of House cricket (5.2 pH). In gypsi\r\nmoth pH optima 6.0 studied by Algimantas et. al., (1992) in\r\nRhychosciora americana larvae pH optima is 6.0 (Terra et.\r\nal., 1994).\r\nThe trehalase activity in both races increased linearly\r\nas temperature rose from 10–50°C and fall down significantly\r\nat 60°C to 70°C. The temperature for both races was same\r\nat 50°C. The temperature optima in other insects were studied\r\nat 45°C in Leucopholis lepidophora (Bhawane et. al., 1991),\r\nin Tobacco hornworm larvae 37.50 (Dahlman 1971), 40°C in\r\nPantala flarescents (Bhawane et. al., 1998).\r\nThe observation in both the races shows higher optimal\r\ntemperature but in order to maximize yield and to minimize\r\nany potential heat induced changes in enzyme when B. mori\r\nreared at low temperature (Algimantas et. al., 1992).','N.T. Pawar, Y.S. Muniv, G.P. Bhawane and A.A. Kanase (2012). Comparision of Midgut Trehalase Characteristics in Bivoltine and Multivoltine Bombyx mori L.Biological Forum — An International Journal, 4(1): 82-84.'),(4477,'123','Prevalence and Characterization of Water Contamination Indicator\r\nBacteria with Special Reference to Coliforms from Drinking Water\r\nSupply in Solan City of Himachal Pradesh','Monika Thakur*, Sushila Negi** Amit Kumar**, Sandip Patil**, Ajay Kumar* and Neha Sharma*','17 SHUSHILA NEGI.pdf','',1,'Water becomes contaminated with enteric pathogens such as coliform group of bacteria viz\r\nSalmonellae, Vibrio and dysentery causing bacilli. The human faecal material carried along with domestic sewage\r\nis often dumped in rivers and lakes leading to water contamination. The present study was undertaken to detect\r\nthe enteric pathogens and to measure the extent of drinking water contamination with the pathogenic\r\nmicroorganisms. Water samples were collected from different areas of Solan city in Himachal Pradesh. Most\r\nprobable number (MPN) test was performed to detect the coliforms in water samples collected from surface water\r\nsources, hand pumps, taps, roof top storage tanks and aqua-guards. Chlorination of some water samples was done\r\nto see the effect of chlorine on bacteria. The indicator organisms isolated were E. coli and Enterobacter aerogenes.\r\nE. coli and Enterobacter aerogenes are the characteristic of intestinal tract of man and animals. The study reveals\r\nthat surface water and roof top storage tank water was more liable to contamination whereas, ground water and\r\naqua-guard water was safer for human consumption. Chlorine was effective in removing these bacteria from\r\nwater.','Water, Chlorination, MPN, MacConkey broth, Escherichia coli, Enterobacter aerogenes.','Water becomes contaminated with enteric pathogens such as coliform group of bacteria viz\r\nSalmonellae, Vibrio and dysentery causing bacilli. The human faecal material carried along with domestic sewage\r\nis often dumped in rivers and lakes leading to water contamination. The present study was undertaken to detect\r\nthe enteric pathogens and to measure the extent of drinking water contamination with the pathogenic\r\nmicroorganisms. Water samples were collected from different areas of Solan city in Himachal Pradesh. Most\r\nprobable number (MPN) test was performed to detect the coliforms in water samples collected from surface water\r\nsources, hand pumps, taps, roof top storage tanks and aqua-guards. Chlorination of some water samples was done\r\nto see the effect of chlorine on bacteria. The indicator organisms isolated were E. coli and Enterobacter aerogenes.\r\nE. coli and Enterobacter aerogenes are the characteristic of intestinal tract of man and animals. The study reveals\r\nthat surface water and roof top storage tank water was more liable to contamination whereas, ground water and\r\naqua-guard water was safer for human consumption. Chlorine was effective in removing these bacteria from\r\nwater.','INTRODUCTION\r\nWater is termed as \"Elixir of life\". The term elixir is\r\nderived from the Arabic Al Ikseer, which means a\r\ncombination or a mixture (Needham et al., 1976). Worldwide\r\nless than 900 million people lack reliable access to safe water\r\nthat is free from disease and industrial waste and 90 % do\r\nnot have access to adequate sanitation facilities This Results\r\nin one of the world\'s greatest health crises; 4,500 children\r\ndie every day from water borne diseases (Bergey et al.,\r\n1908). Water microbiology is concerned with the study of\r\nmicroorganisms that live in water, or can be transported from\r\none habitat to other by water. Water supports the growth\r\nof many types of microorganisms (Chapelle, 2002). Water\r\ngets contaminated by enteric pathogens such as coliform\r\ngroup of bacteria, Salmonellae, Vibrio and dysentery causing\r\nagents. The human faecal material carried in sewage is often\r\ndumped in rivers and lakes. This increases water\r\ncontamination. Therefore, water supply has to be regularly\r\nchecked for microbial contamination. Coliform bacteria are\r\nthe most reliable indicators of faecal contamination. However,\r\npresence of streptococci is strong evidence of faecal\r\npollution (Park 2002). Worldwide, diarrheal diseases are\r\nsecond only to respiratory diseases. Every year around\r\n5 million children (more than 13,600 a day) die from diarrheal\r\ndiseases in Asia, Africa and South America. Developing\r\ncountries carry a heavy load of water related diseases; the\r\nheaviest being the diarrheal diseases. Among which typhoid,\r\nparatyphoid fever, bacillary dysentery, E. coli associated\r\ndiarrhea and cholera are very common. (Klein\'s et al., 2002).\r\nAccording to the World Health Organization (WHO),\r\ndiarrheal diseases account for 4.1% incidence of the total\r\ndaily burden of disease and is responsible for the deaths\r\nof 1.8 million people every year (Nwachcuku et al., 2004).\r\nWHO estimated that up to 80% of all sickness and diseases\r\nin world are caused by inadequate sanitation and polluted\r\nwater (WHO, 1976). Chlorination plays an important role in\r\nremoval of bacteria from water supplies. Chlorine kills\r\npathogens such as bacteria and viruses by breaking the\r\nchemical bonds in their molecules. It is highly water soluble.\r\nLight chlorine (0.2-0.4 mg/L ) is required to kill bacteria.\r\nChlorine kills pathogenic bacteria, but it has no effect on\r\ncertain viruses viz Polio and Hepatitis except when used in\r\nhigh doses (Ramesh, 2005). The main aim of the present\r\nstudy was the examination of bacteria from water samples\r\ncollected from different sources at Solan city of Himachal\r\nPradesh (India).\r\nMATERIAL AND METHODS\r\nCOLLECTION OFWATER SAMPLES\r\nWater samples were collected in clean sterilized bottles\r\nmade of neutral glass of 230 ml capacity having ground\r\nglass stopper. Extreme care was taken to avoid any\r\nbacteriological contamination from environment during\r\ntransportation of water samples to the laboratory (Park,\r\n2000).\r\nBiological Forum – An International Journal, Forum — An International Journal, 4(11)(:1 8):5-1829(-21071(22)009) ISSN No. (Print) : 0975-1130\r\nISSN No. (Online) : 2249-3239\r\n86 Thakur, Kumar, Kumar, Sharma, Negi and Patil\r\nMOST PROBABLE NUMBER METHOD\r\nWater was examined by MPN (Most probable number)\r\ntest. This test was carried out in three stages namely\r\npresumptive test, confirmed test and completed test\r\n(Cruickshank et al., 1980).\r\nPRESUMPTIVE TEST\r\nA set of test tubes containing MacConkey broth (single\r\nand double strength) was inoculated with water samples\r\nand incubated at 37°C for 48 hours. Initial observations\r\nwere made at the end of 24 hours. Incubation was\r\nprolonged for 24 hours more. All the test tubes were\r\nobserved after 48 hours for any bubble formation in inverted\r\nDurham tube and colour change. Absence of air bubble in\r\nany test tube confirmed the absence of coliform group and\r\ndo not need further confirmation or completed test. Tubes\r\nshowing air bubbles were tested further for final confirmation\r\nof coliforms.\r\nCONFIRMED TEST\r\nThis test is also called differential test or Eijkman test.\r\nAfter presumptive coliform test, subcultures were made from\r\nall the tubes showing acid and gas to fresh tubes containing\r\nsingle strength MacConkey broth (which was brought to\r\n37°C in the water bath). All tubes were incubated at 37°C\r\nand examined after 24 hours for gas production. Tubes\r\nyielding gas at 37°C were regarded as containing E. coli\r\n(Typical coliforms) (Huang et al., 1997). During Eijkman test,\r\ntubes containing peptone water were also inoculated from\r\nthe presumptive positive tubes. All the tubes were incubated\r\nat 37°C. After incubation, Kovac\'s reagent was added along\r\nthe sides of test tubes. Formation of red ring confirmed the\r\npresence of E. coli. Plates of Eosin Methylene Blue Agar\r\n(EMB) and MacConkey Agar were also streaked and\r\nincubated at 37°C for 24 hours. The results were then\r\nrecorded. If no coliform colonies were present on petriplates\r\nand there was no gas production in MacConkey medium\r\nafter 24 hours incubation at 37°C, then water was considered\r\nsafe for drinking (Pelczar et al., 2005).\r\nCOMPLETED TEST\r\nAn isolated colony was picked from the confirmatory\r\ntest plate and inoculated into a tube of lactose broth and\r\nstreaked on a nutrient agar slant to perform a Gram’s stain.\r\nTubes were incubated at 37°C. For differentiation between\r\nE. coli and Enterobacter aerogenes, biochemical tests were\r\ndone. Results were then recorded. There was gas in lactose\r\nbroth tubes, gram\'s negative bacilli on microscopic\r\nobservation. Biochemical results were also recorded. This\r\nconfirmed the presence of E. coli and Enterobacter\r\naerogenes in different water samples (Cappucino et al., 2006).\r\nColiform Count and Most Probable Number of coliform were\r\ncalculated by comparing the results of the presumptive test\r\nwith the standard Table. 2., from; Standard methods for\r\nexamination of water and wastewater, APHA, New York,\r\n(1971) (Dubey et al., 2002).\r\nRESULTS AND DISCUSSION\r\nA large number of microorganisms including\r\nsaprophytes and pathogenic organisms are found in drinking\r\nwater (Stanier et al., 2007). Many bacteria provide an\r\nindication of faecal pollution in water. In the present study,\r\na total of 17 water samples were collected from different\r\nareas of Solan and examined for microbial contamination.\r\nWater samples were collected from five different sources\r\n(Table 1). E. coli has been used as an indicator of faecal\r\npollution in water for many decades. The bacterium is\r\npresent in the intestinal tract of human and animals in large\r\nnumbers and is more numerous than disease causing\r\nbacteria and viruses. E. coli has the advantage of not being\r\ncapable of growing and multiplying in water (except warm\r\nand food laden waters). Therefore, the presence of this\r\nbacterium in water is indicator of recent faecal pollution\r\n(Madigan et al., 2000). Surface water sources are more liable\r\nto contamination as they are often loaded with various\r\nchemical and biological constituents. Tap water gets\r\ncontaminated easily from its source or while passing through\r\npipelines. Some other factors like soil and air can also act\r\nas source of water contamination. Ground water is\r\nconsidered more safe and reliable for consumption because\r\nsand filters remove most of bacteria from it (Borchardt et\r\nal., 2004). In the present study the portability of water\r\nsamples collected from drinking and natural water resources\r\nof Solan city (Himachal Pradesh) was determined on the\r\nbasis of presumptive coliform test (MPN). On the basis of\r\ncoliform test water samples were classified in four categories.\r\nOut of 17 samples tested, 9 were unsatisfactory, one sample\r\nwas suspicious and only two were satisfactory whereas five\r\nwere found excellent (Table 2 and Graph 2). The percentage\r\ndistribution of water samples were like unsatisfactory\r\n52.94%, Satisfactory 11.76%, Excellent 29.4% and Suspicious\r\n5.88% (Graph 1). Unsatisfactory and suspicious samples\r\nwere further tested for the presence of typical E. coli\r\nthrough Eijkman and lactose fermentation tests. Seven out\r\nof 10 unsatisfactory and suspicious samples were found\r\npositive in Eijkman test (Table 3). All the unsatisfactory and\r\nsuspicious samples were found positive during lactose\r\nfermentation test (Table 4). Positive samples indicated the\r\npresence of coliforms. The positive samples were further\r\nconfirmed through culturing on selective media (Fig. 1). The\r\nenteric bacteria were further identified on the basis of\r\ncolony morphology, Gram staining and Biochemical tests.\r\nTwo indicator organisms isolated from water samples during\r\nthe present study were E. coli and Enterobacter aerogenes.\r\nEnterobacter aerogenes occur mostly on grains and plant\r\nsurface, but may also inhabit the faeces of man and other\r\nanimals. These bacteria are considered non pathogenic but\r\npresence of these in water indicates that faecal matter has\r\nentered in the water supply and is therefore, water is\r\nThakur, Kumar, Kumar, Sharma, Negi and Patil 87\r\ncontaminated (Mackie et al., 2006). Among 10 isolated\r\nbacteria, seven were E. coli and three were Enterobacter\r\naerogenes (Table 5). Both the enteric bacteria are considered\r\nas water pollution indicator organisms. However, some\r\nstrains of E. coli are pathogenic and may cause enteric\r\ninfections (Ananthanarayan et al., 2005). The presence of\r\nthese two indicator organisms in water samples indicates\r\nthe extent of water contamination in the drinking water\r\nsupply of the city. By applying MPN test, we can check\r\nthe quality of drinking water. The contaminated water may\r\nbe made good for use through filtration, sedimentation,\r\ndisinfection by chlorination and some physical methods like\r\nosmosis, distillation and U.V. light. Such type of work is\r\nnecessary in order to know the extent of water contamination.','Monika Thakur*, Sushila Negi** Amit Kumar**, Sandip Patil**, Ajay Kumar* and Neha Sharma* (2012). Prevalence and Characterization of Water Contamination Indicator Bacteria with Special Reference to Coliforms from Drinking Water Supply in Solan City of Himachal Pradesh. Biological Forum – An International Journal, Forum — An International Journal, 4(11)(:1 8):5-182.'),(4478,'123','Differences in Haematological Parameters in Normal, Infected and\r\nImmune-Primed Fingerlings of Red Tilapia\r\n(Oreochromis mossambicus x Oreochromis niloticus)','Ali Muhammad Mastoi*, Mithun Sukumaran*, Anila Mastoi**, Anuar Hussan*, Faizah Shaharom* and Anil Chatterji*','18 ANIL CHATERJEE.pdf','',1,'Infectious diseases are always a major problem causing heavy loss to the fish farmers. The\r\nfingerlings of red tilapia (Oreochromis mossambicus x Oreochromis niloticus) were fed with extracts prepared\r\neither by acid hydrolysing process or ethanolic extracts from oyster (Saccostrea cuccullata; Born, 1778) and\r\nseaweed (Sargassum baccularia; Mertens). These extracts were mixed at different concentrations in commercial\r\ndiet and fed to the fingerlings till 15 days. All groups of fishes fed with experimental and normal diets were\r\nchallenged by a gram-negative bacterium (Aeromonas hydrophila) to see the effects of pathogen. Fishes fed with\r\nexperimental feed consisting of ethanolic extract of oyster showed better survival as compared to other\r\nexperimental feeds. Maximum total leucocytes (22 + 43 × 103 cell/mm3) and erythrocytes (32 + 33 × 106 cells/\r\nmm3) were recorded in fishes fed with ethanolic extract of oyster (P < 0.05) which were similar to fishes of\r\ncontrol group. Significant (P < 0.05) changes were also observed in the haematological parameters such as;\r\nlymphocyte, neutrophil, monocyte and basophil cells in feed incorporated with ethanolic extract of oyster.\r\nSimilarly, higher values of albumin; amylase; total cholesterol; GGT; glucose; phospholipids; triglycerides;\r\ntotal serum protein; lactase, LDH and lipase in the infected fish were observed as compared to the control\r\ngroup (p < 0.05). Fishes fed with ethanolic extract showed relatively much closer values as observed in control\r\ngroup. Our results strongly suggest that ethanolic extract of oyster (S. cuccullata) could combat the microbial\r\ninfection by stimulating the non-specific immune response effectively at fingerlings stage of red tilapia.','Haematological parameters normal, infected, immune-primed fingerlings, red tilapia.','Infectious diseases are always a major problem causing heavy loss to the fish farmers. The\r\nfingerlings of red tilapia (Oreochromis mossambicus x Oreochromis niloticus) were fed with extracts prepared\r\neither by acid hydrolysing process or ethanolic extracts from oyster (Saccostrea cuccullata; Born, 1778) and\r\nseaweed (Sargassum baccularia; Mertens). These extracts were mixed at different concentrations in commercial\r\ndiet and fed to the fingerlings till 15 days. All groups of fishes fed with experimental and normal diets were\r\nchallenged by a gram-negative bacterium (Aeromonas hydrophila) to see the effects of pathogen. Fishes fed with\r\nexperimental feed consisting of ethanolic extract of oyster showed better survival as compared to other\r\nexperimental feeds. Maximum total leucocytes (22 + 43 × 103 cell/mm3) and erythrocytes (32 + 33 × 106 cells/\r\nmm3) were recorded in fishes fed with ethanolic extract of oyster (P < 0.05) which were similar to fishes of\r\ncontrol group. Significant (P < 0.05) changes were also observed in the haematological parameters such as;\r\nlymphocyte, neutrophil, monocyte and basophil cells in feed incorporated with ethanolic extract of oyster.\r\nSimilarly, higher values of albumin; amylase; total cholesterol; GGT; glucose; phospholipids; triglycerides;\r\ntotal serum protein; lactase, LDH and lipase in the infected fish were observed as compared to the control\r\ngroup (p < 0.05). Fishes fed with ethanolic extract showed relatively much closer values as observed in control\r\ngroup. Our results strongly suggest that ethanolic extract of oyster (S. cuccullata) could combat the microbial\r\ninfection by stimulating the non-specific immune response effectively at fingerlings stage of red tilapia.','INTRODUCTION\r\nIntensification of culture systems has resulted outbreak\r\nof many diseases causing very high economic losses\r\nespecially to tilapia industry in recent years. The cultivated\r\nfishes in enclosure and cages become more susceptible not\r\nonly to pathogenic but also to the opportunistic bacteria.\r\nAlthough development of disease resistant strains of fish\r\nhas broad appeal to fish culture but this area is less\r\nexplored as compared to the development of new vaccine\r\nand antibiotics. Generally vaccination enhances specific\r\nimmune responses of the fish which has been proved to\r\nbe one of the most effective methods for controlling\r\ndifferent pathogenic diseases in commercially important\r\nfishes (Andro et al. 2008). However, there have always been\r\nseveral limitations in using vaccines in fishes as a single\r\nvaccine is effective against only one type of pathogen\r\n(Murrey et al. 2003); Gopalakannan and Arul (2006).\r\nSecondly immunization of young fish by vaccines is a\r\ndifficult exercise in hatchery practices (Kaattari and Piganelli\r\n1997). Additionally, use of these chemicals always creates\r\nproblems with emergence of drug resistance strains of\r\nbacteria which further resulted in severe toxicity and\r\nconsiderable accumulation of these chemicals both in fish\r\nand in environment (Citarasu et al. 2002). Sagdic and Ozcan\r\n2003). It is also true that for many pathogens like\r\nBiological Forum – An International Journal, Forum — An International Journal, 4(11)(:1 9):0-1927(-21071(22)009)\r\nAeromonas hydrophila, no effective vaccine has been\r\ndeveloped so far due to their heterogeneity.\r\nThe use of natural products, like plant extracts in\r\ncontrolling fish diseases is new and emerging field which\r\nneeds further researches to find out the most effective\r\nmeasures to replace chemotherapy (Sivaram 2004). A\r\nnumber of plant extracts have been screened and used with\r\nencouraging results in controlling bacterial and viral\r\ndiseases in fishes. Pachanawan et al. (2008) have tested\r\nextracts prepared from fourteen herbs against A. hydrophila\r\ninfection in tilapia (Oreochromis niloticus). They found that\r\nthe ethanolic extract of Psidium guajava showed the highest\r\nantimicrobial activity. Increased survival and resistance to\r\nWhite Spot Syndrome Virus (WSSV) infection in black tiger\r\nshrimp, Penaeus monodon feeding with immune-stimulant\r\nherbal supplemented diets has successfully been\r\ndemonstrated by Citarasu et al. (2006). In a similar manner,\r\ndietary supplementation of Achyranthes aspera seed has\r\nbeen found to stimulate the immunity and enhancing\r\nresistance against Aeromonas hydrophila infection in\r\nfingerlings of Labeo rohita (Rap et al. 2006). Considering\r\nall these problems and above mentioned constraints, an\r\nattempt thus was made primarily to incorporate different\r\nextracts of seaweed and oyster in commercial feed with\r\nultimate aim to produce disease resistant progeny of red\r\ntilapia with enhanced immunity and better survival.\r\nISSN No. (Print) : 0975-1130\r\nISSN No. (Online) : 2249-3239\r\nMastoi, Sukumaran, Mastoi, Shaharom and Chatterji 91\r\nMATERIAL AND METHODS\r\nExtracts from seaweed and oyster were prepared\r\nfollowing solvent extraction and hydrolyzing processes as\r\ndescribed by Chatterji et al. (2002). For experimental feed,\r\npellets of commercial feed (Highashi) were ground to make\r\na uniform powder. The freeze dried seaweed and oysters\r\nextracts (ethanolic and hydrolysate) were mixed thoroughly\r\nin this powder of commercial feed at the ratios of 2.5, 5\r\nand 7.5% seaweed and oyster hydrolysates and 2.5%\r\nethanolic extracts. The extract incorporated feeds were repelletized\r\nusing a table top pelletizer.\r\nThe bacterial isolate (A. hydrophila) maintained in the\r\nlaboratory was scaled up in nutrient broth from fresh agar\r\npetri-plates following standard protocol. After incubation\r\nat 37°C for 24 hours, the culture was harvested by\r\ncentrifugation (5000 rpm for 3 min) and re-suspended in\r\nPBS.\r\nFingerlings of red tilapia (10-15 g) were divided into\r\nthree groups consisting of 20 healthy individuals in each\r\ngroup. The first group (Group-A) was treated as control\r\ngroup where fishes were fed two times with the normal diet\r\n(without extracts) at the rate of 6% of the body weight till\r\nthe completion of the experiment. Fishes of this group were\r\ninjected with only 100 ml PBS, intramuscularly, using a 1 ml\r\ninsulin syringe on the day 15 of the culture period. In the\r\nsecond group (Group-B), fishes were injected intramuscularly\r\nwith 100 ml of bacterial suspension on day 15 and these\r\nfishes were allowed to feed commercial feed (Highashi) two\r\ntimes in a day till the completion of the experiment. In the\r\nthird group (Group-C- experimental or immune-primed group),\r\nthe fingerlings of red tilapia were initially fed with\r\nexperimental feed (6% of biomass at two times in a day) for\r\n15 days and then 100 ml of bacterial suspension was injected\r\nintramuscularly on day 15. Fishes of control and immuneprimed\r\ngroups were fed with commercial feeds throughout\r\nthe experimental period. All fishes were maintained in 100 l\r\nfiber tanks with continuous aeration at room temperature\r\n(27-30ºC) in the hatchery for 90 days with daily exchange\r\nof freshwater. All these experiments were conducted in\r\ntriplicates. The fingerlings were checked twice daily for the\r\nappearance of clinical sign of diseases and mortality, if any.\r\nThe dead animals were removed immediately and data\r\nrecorded to assess the survival rates among each group\r\nseparately.\r\nAfter 30th day of the experiment when fishes started\r\nshowing about 60% mortality in infected group, blood\r\nsamples from all groups of fishes were withdrawn from the\r\nlateral line just near to the caudal peduncle of the fish with\r\nthe help of a sterile needle fitted with a 2 ml hypodermal\r\nsyringe. All blood samples were subjected for thin blood\r\nsmear and stained with corresponding diluting fluids for\r\nleucocytes and erythrocyte counts and Wright’s staining\r\nfor differential blood cells counts. For leucocytes and\r\nerythrocyte counts, 20 ml blood of fish was mixed with\r\n3980 ml of corresponding diluting fluids (200 ml of glacial\r\nacetic acid mixed in 10 ml distilled water for leucocytes\r\nand 3 g sodium citrate mixed with 1 ml formalin and making\r\nthe solution to 100 ml for erythrocyte counts). The cell\r\ncounting was performed using a Neubauer\'s cells counting\r\nchamber.\r\nAll slides with freshly prepared smears and air dried\r\ncompletely were placed in methanol for exactly 30 seconds\r\nand then Wright stain was poured for duration of 3 minutes.\r\nImmediately after 3 minutes, Wright stain was removed with\r\nthe help of a pipette and oxidizing solution containing\r\nWright Stain and Wright Stain Buffer mixture was put\r\nreplacing Wright stain from the slides. The slides were then\r\nallowed to stand for 6 minutes and observed for appearance\r\nof metallic sheen on top of the slides. The slides were\r\nplaced in Wright Stain Buffer for 1.5 minutes followed by\r\nair drying of the slides. The slides were examined with\r\nimmersion oil using an advanced research microscope\r\n(ARM), Nikon Eclipse 80i (USA) under 100 X magnifications\r\nand micro-photographs were taken for further analysis.\r\nAfter proper Wright staining, the poly-morphonuclear\r\nneutrophil cells were looked with dark blue nuclei, reddish\r\nlilac granulates and pale pink cytoplasm. Similarly, the\r\neosinophil cells were with blue nuclei, red to orange-red\r\ngranules and blue cytoplasm whereas basophil cells with\r\npurple to dark blue nuclei and dark purple granules. The\r\nlymphocytes and monocyte cells were with dark purple\r\nnuclei and sky blue cytoplasm. Number of different cells in\r\none microscopic field was counted independently and the\r\nsame procedure was repeated for 20 times. The average\r\nnumber of each blood cell were then calculated accordingly.\r\nThe blood samples from all groups of fishes were\r\nwithdrawn separately from the lateral line just near to the\r\ncaudal peduncle of the fish with the help of a sterile needle\r\nfitted with a 2 ml hypodermal syringe. The blood was then\r\nimmediately transferred into 2 ml eppendorf micro test tubes\r\n(Eppendorf Biopur). The micro test tubes were then allowed\r\nto stand for 1 hour at 37°C allowing the blood to clot. The\r\nsamples were further left at 4°C overnight to allow the clot\r\nto contract. This was followed by losing the clot from the\r\nsides of the micro tube with the help of a glass pasteur\r\ncarefully. Utmost care was taken for not allowing the red\r\ncells to lyse. The serum was then separated by\r\ncentrifugation at 4000 rpm for 20 minutes at 4°C temperature.\r\nThe serum was then gently pipetted off into another clean\r\nmicro test tubes using a glass pasteur. The tubes were\r\nthen appropriately labeled and stored at –20°C for further\r\nanalysis.\r\nBiochemical parameters such as albumin, amylase, total\r\ncholesterol, gamma-glutamyl transferase, glucose,\r\nphospholipids, triglycerides, total serum protein, lactase and\r\nlactase dehyrogenase in control, infected and immuneprimed\r\nfish were analyzed using a 902 Automatic analyzer\r\n(Hitachi Boehringer Mannheim Japan). Detailed steps for\r\npreparation of samples and biochemical analysis were\r\nfollowed according to the Technical manual of Roche\r\nspecifically prepared for Automatic Serum Analyzer (Roche\r\nDiagnostic GmbH, Technical manual, 2007: 1-800-4282336).\r\nMastoi, Sukumaran, Mastoi, Shaharom and Chatterji 92\r\nAll data collected for different groups of fishes were\r\nanalyzed by running the General Linear model program\r\navailable in SAS software. Differences between means were\r\ncompared using Duncan’s multiple range tests to find the\r\nsignificance at 5% (p < 0.05) level.\r\nRESULTS\r\nSurvival of the fishes till 90th day was observed in\r\nfishes fed with different concentrations of hydrolysate (2.5,\r\n5 and 7.5%) prepared from seaweed and oyster and among\r\ninfected fishes by A. hydrophila. In control (normal) group,\r\nthe survival was 85% at 90th day of the experimental period.\r\nHowever, the infected fishes started showing mortality from\r\nthe day 20 after the introduction of the infection and on\r\nday 90, only 15% survival was observed (Table 1). The\r\nsurvival of fishes fed with seaweed hydrolysate at the ratios\r\nof 5 and 7.5% also showed mortality on 50th day onward\r\nand till the day 90, the survival was only 35 and 40%\r\nrespectively (Table 1). This confirmed that though seaweed\r\nhydrolysate showed some activity but it was not very\r\nsignificant (p > 0.05). The oyster hydrolysate (7.5%)\r\nrelatively showed better activity as compared to seaweed.\r\nThe feed incorporated with 7.5% oyster hydrolysate showed\r\nsurvival rate of 50% on the day 90 (Table 1).\r\nThe feed incorporated with 2.5% of both seaweed and\r\noyster ethanolic extracts showed better survival in\r\nexperimental groups. The survival of fishes fed with\r\nethanolic seaweed extract showed 55% survival at the end\r\nof 90th day of experiment whereas ethanolic oyster extract\r\nshowed 90% survival during the period of the experiment.\r\nIn fishes of control group, the survival was 85% till the\r\ncompletion of the experiment (Fig. 1). The infected fishes\r\nshowed high mortality starting from day 30 and on 90th\r\nday, only 15% survival was observed in this group (Fig. 1).','Ali Muhammad Mastoi*, Mithun Sukumaran*, Anila Mastoi**, Anuar Hussan*, Faizah Shaharom* and Anil Chatterji* (2012). Differences in Haematological Parameters in Normal, Infected and Immune-Primed Fingerlings of Red Tilapia (Oreochromis mossambicus x Oreochromis niloticus).Biological Forum – An International Journal, Forum — An International Journal, 4(11)(:1 9):0-192.'),(4479,'123','Traditional Phytotherapy for Snake Bites by the Local Rural People of\r\nHamirpur District in Himachal Pradesh (India)','Nitesh Kumar* and Rajaram Choyal*','19 NITESH HP.pdf','',1,'Hamirpur district is the most literate and smallest district of Himachal Pradesh. Due to\r\nfavourable climatic conditions and suitable environment, this region serve as a good habitat for the growth of\r\nvarious varieties of medicinal herbs which are used for the treatment of various diseases and ailments. Snake\r\nare poisonous animals and they are found in every parts of study area. So snake bite is the common problem\r\nof this district. This paper provides the informatons about the ethnobotanical and traditional uses of local\r\npeople of this district for snake treatment. This work is an effort to present the traditional\r\nphytotherapeutical and ethnobotanical observations recorded with respect to snake bite.','Phytotherapy, Ethnomedicine, Snake bite.','The present observations revealed that the local people\r\nof Hamirpur district of Himachal Pradesh particularly\r\nthose living in remote area and high altitude areas are\r\nlargely depends upon the local plant resources to meet\r\ntheir daily requirements and earning their livelihood. In\r\naddition to these plant species, the local people also use\r\nmany other plants for various ethnobotanical purposes.\r\nThese plants form an integral form of their lifestyle and\r\nhence have always been revered.','INTRODUCTION\r\nSnakes are the poisonous animals because their venome\r\nexerts neuro-toxic, cytotoxic and hemotoxic effect.\r\nSnake venome is a complex mixture of enzymes of procoagulant,\r\nnon enzyme proteins, peptides,\r\ncarbohydrates, amines, lipids and metal ions. In India\r\nout of 260 species, 53 species are poisonous. Bites are\r\nmainly due to two poisonous and venomous species of\r\nthe snake families i.e. Elapidae and Vipertdae. The\r\nmost common poisonous snakes in India are cobra\r\n(NaJa-NaJa), common krait (Bungarus caeruleus)\r\nRussell’s viper (Daboia russelli) and saw-scaled viper\r\n(Echis carinatus) etc. The Himachal Pradesh have a\r\ngreat wealth of flora of medicinal flora and traditional\r\nmedicinal knowledge associated with them. Himachal.\r\nHamirpur district is also well known medicinal plant\r\nhotspot in the western Himalaya that has rich diversity\r\nof flora (Dhaliwal and Sharma, 1999, Singh, 1999).\r\nLocal people and old village peoples have a high\r\namount of quality of knowledge associated to the\r\nmedicinal uses of plants around them. Traditional\r\nherbal medicinal therapies used by local people of this\r\nstudy area play an important role in cure different\r\ndiseases. They are safe, effective and inexpensive\r\n(Kaur, et. al). The growth of these medicinal herbs and\r\nother plant resources in the study area provide the raw\r\nmaterial for pharmaceutical, phytochemical, food,\r\nflavouring and cosmetic industries. Therefore the\r\npresent study helps to keep the record of traditional\r\nuses of 16 medicinal plants belonging to14 families\r\nwhich are used for the treatment in case of snake bite\r\nby local people.\r\nBiological Forum – An International Journal 4(1): 98-106 (2012)\r\nKumar and Choyal 99\r\nStudy Area\r\nHamirpur district is situated between 76o18’ – 76o44’\r\nEast longitude and 31o52’30” North Latitudes. The\r\ntrack is hilly covered by shivalik range and the\r\nelevation varies from 450-1, 100 meters. This region is\r\nrich in diverse flora and suitable for ethnobotanical\r\nexploration various plants are used for many diseases\r\nand for snake bite problems.\r\nMETHODOLOGY\r\nThe floristic surveys were conducted throughout the\r\nstudy period in different area of Hamirpur district,\r\namong the local people. The plant specimens were\r\ncollected during these surveys were identified and\r\npreserved. The field data was compared with literature\r\non medicinal plants of Himachal Pradesh; some\r\nliteratures of ethnobotany have also been considered\r\nlike Yadav and Suresh (2003), Prakash and Aggarwal\r\n(2010)and Kharwal and Rawat (2012). The 16 plants\r\nbelonging to 14 families were reported here which are\r\nused for the treatment of snake bite. The method, which\r\nare used to collect the data:\r\n(a). Plants were collected and preserved in the form of\r\nherbarium.\r\n(b). The information was collected from the old persons\r\nof the area.\r\n(c). Interviews were conducted during structured\r\nquestionnaire prepared for traditional medicinal\r\npractitioners.\r\n(d). Plants were identified and nomenclature with the\r\nhelp of H.J and Wadhwa Flora of Himachal Pradesh\r\nand flora of B.S.I.\r\nKumar and Choyal 100\r\nRESULT AND OBSERVATIONS\r\nEthno-botanical study carried out in this region throws\r\nlight on 16 Medicinal plants for the treatment in case of\r\nsnake bite as shown in the Table 1.\r\nAll the observations are analyzed through PI diagram\r\nand histogram as shown in figure. The different parts\r\nused for the snake bite treatment are represented by Pi\r\ndiagram:\r\nTable 1.\r\nSr.\r\nNo.\r\nPlant Name Family Local Name Part/s\r\nUsed\r\nMedicinal use\r\n1. Achryanthes aspera. Amarnathaceae Puth Kanda Seeds Seed paste is used in case of\r\ntreatment of snake bite.\r\n2. Albizia lebbek Benth. Mimosaceae Shirish, Sirinh Bark Powdered bark is useful in case\r\nof snake bite wounds.\r\n3. Argemone mexicana Papaveraceae Bharbhand Root Root paste is also used in case\r\nof snake bite treatment.\r\n4. Bauhinia variegata\r\nLinn.\r\nFabaceae Kachnar/ Kariala Root Root paste is used as antidote to\r\nsnake poisoning.\r\n5. Bombax ceiba L. Bombacaceae Semal, Simul Flowers\r\nand Fruits\r\nPaste of flowers and fruits are\r\nused in case of the treatment of\r\nsnake bits.\r\n6. Butea monosperma\r\n(Lamk.) Taub.\r\nFabaceae Dhak, Palah,\r\nPlash and flame\r\nof forest\r\nResin/\r\nLatex\r\nResin is used in case of\r\ntreatment of snake-bits.\r\n7. Cissampelos pareira\r\nLinn.\r\nMenispermaceae Patindu, Batindu\r\nand Patha etc.\r\nRoots Roots paste is used as antidote\r\nto snake poison.\r\n8. Costus speciosus\r\nSmith.\r\nZingiberaceae Kemuk, Kustha Rhizome\r\nand Root\r\nRhizome and root paste is used\r\nin case of treatment of snake\r\nbit.\r\n9. Euphorbia royleana\r\nBoiss\r\nEuphorbiaceae Chhuien Root In case of snake bite decoction\r\nprepared from small roots and\r\nkali mirch is given to patient is\r\na medicated drink.\r\n10. Gloriosa superba\r\nLinn.\r\nLiliaceae Nagardi Root Root paste is an antidote to\r\nsnake bite.\r\n11. Mentha longifolia (L.)\r\nHirds\r\nLamiaceae Podina, Pudina Leaves Paste of leaves powder is used\r\nin case of treatment of snake\r\nbits.\r\n12. Murraya koenigii (L.)\r\nspreng.\r\nRutaceae Gandhela, curry\r\npatta\r\nLeaves Decoction of leaves with butter\r\nact as febrifuge and also used in\r\nsnake bite.\r\n13. Murraya paniculata\r\n(L.) Jack.\r\nRutaceae Gandhela Root About 30ml. infusion prepared\r\nfrom shadily dried root powder\r\nof admistered orally for every\r\none hour upto 2 days work as\r\nantidote for snake bite.\r\n14. Rauvolfia serpentina\r\nBenth. Ex. Kurtz.\r\nApoacynaceae Sarpgandha Root Root paste is also act as\r\nantidote to snake venom.\r\n15. Thalictrum foliolosum\r\nDC.\r\nRanunculaceae Pilijari, mirchadi Root The root paste is used against\r\nsnake bite.\r\n16. Verbascum thapus\r\nLinn.\r\nScrophulariaceae Jangli tambaku Whole\r\nplant\r\nThe infusion of whole plant is\r\ngiven to snake bite patient.\r\nKumar and Choyal 101\r\nFig. 1. The number of the different plant parts used for snake bite treatment.\r\nDISCUSSION\r\nEthnobotany is totally in virtually a new field of\r\nresearch, if in this field plants investigated thoroughly\r\nand systematically, it will yield result of great value of\r\nthe archeologists, anthropologist, plant geographer,\r\nenthnobotanist, linguistics, botanists and\r\nphytochemists. After the time of Harshberger (1896) to\r\nthe present date, several authors have tried to give a\r\ndescription of subject ethnobotany and its scope,\r\nmethodology, its various disciplines sub-disciplined and\r\npotential etc.\r\nKumar and Choyal 102\r\nSchutles (1960) had written on tapping our heritage\r\nethnobotanical lores. He had suggested three methods\r\nof ethnobotany among the primitive peoples. He also\r\ngave some examples of the plant used during ancient\r\nperiod. Schutles (1962) outlined the role of\r\nethnobotanist in the search of new medicinal plants. So,\r\nthis was a paper on subject of ethnobotany on\r\nspecialized line i.e. medicinal plants, archeological\r\nplant remain, notes on plant collections and herbaria,\r\nliterature survey and field studies. Jain, et. al. (1963),\r\nhighlighted the native plant remedies for snakebite\r\namong adibasis of central India. Jain (1964) wrote on\r\nthe role of botanist in fold lore research. He writes that\r\nfolklore research involve the study of all aspect of\r\nintellectual and material culture of indigenous or\r\nbackward people. Jain (1965c) outlined the prospects\r\nby some new or less known medicinal plants resources.\r\nSharma (1976) studied some useful wild plant of\r\nHimachal Pradesh. Uniyal and Chauhan (1982) studied\r\ncommercially important medicinal plant of the Kullu\r\nforest division in H.P. Jain (1986) gave an overview of\r\nthe subject ethnobotany, and indication of the\r\nsignificant research during last thirty year in this field\r\nand also showed how ethnobotany is an\r\ninterdisciplinary science. Schutles (1986) tried to bring\r\nthe attention of scientists to ethnobotanical\r\nconservation. For many years, he has been engaged on\r\nthe studies in pristline forest of the Amazon and other\r\nregions of tropical South America.\r\nAchryanthes aspera\r\n(Amarnathaceae)\r\nAlbizia lebbek Benth.\r\n(Mimosaceae)\r\nArgemone mexicana\r\n(Papaveraceae)\r\nBauhinia variegata Linn.\r\n(Fabaceae)\r\nBombax ceiba L.\r\n(Bombacaceae)\r\nButea monosperma (Lamk.) Taub.\r\n(Fabaceae)\r\nKumar and Choyal 103\r\nCissampelos pareira Linn.\r\n(Menispermaceae)\r\nCostus speciosus Smith.\r\n(Zingiberaceae)\r\nEuphorbia royleana Boiss.\r\n(Euphorbiaceae)\r\nMentha longifolia (L.) Hirds\r\n(Lamiaceae)\r\nGloriosa superba Linn.\r\n(Liliaceae)\r\nMurraya koenigii Spreng.\r\n( Rutaceae)\r\nMurraya paniculata (L.) Jack.\r\n(Rutaceae)\r\nThalictrum foliolosum DC.\r\nRauvolfia serpentina Benth. Ex (Ranunculaceae)\r\nKurtz. (Apocynaceae)\r\nKumar and Choyal 104\r\nArora (1987) described ethnobotany and it’s role in the\r\ndomestication and conservation of native plant genetic\r\nresources. He gave the detail account of this important\r\narea where ethnobotany has still a great to do. Manilal\r\n(1989) had thrown light on the linkage of ethnobotany\r\nwith other science and disciplines. The important fields\r\nlike food and nutrition, defense and survival, sociality\r\nand culture, religion, medicine, art and literature,\r\nmythology, anthropology, archeology, forestry, and\r\nagriculture, economics, language, history and politics\r\nand conservation etc. are the major field to the research\r\nis linked.\r\nUniyal (1989) highlighted the Garwhal Himalaya in his\r\n“Notes on the Ethnobotany of Lahoul, a province of the\r\nPunjab”. Brij Lal et. al (1996) described the plants used\r\nas ethnomedicine and supplement food by Gaddis of\r\nHimachal Pradesh, India. Kapur (1996) highlighted the\r\ntradionally important medicinal plant of Bhaderwah\r\nhills. Chauhan (1999) described the medicinal and the\r\naromatic plants of Himachal Pradesh. Singh S.K.\r\n(1999) worked on the ethno-botanical study of the\r\nuseful plants of the Kullu district in Himachal Pradesh.\r\nSharma et. al (2000) studied the ethnobotanical studies\r\nof Gaddi- a tribal community of the Kangra district,\r\nHimachal Pradesh. Singh and Kumar (2000) studied the\r\nethnobotanical wisdom of Gaddi tribe inthe western\r\nHimalya (Himachal Pradesh) Thakur (2001) described\r\nthe ethnobotany of Rawalsar (Mandi District),\r\nHimachal Pradesh. Sharma et. al (2003) gave an\r\naccount on the commercially importance of medicinal\r\nand aromatic plants of Parvati Valley (Himachal\r\nPradesh). Thakur et. al (2004) described the\r\ncharacterization of some traditional fermented food and\r\nbeverages of Himachal Pradesh. Warman (2004)\r\nstudied the medicinal commercial religions and\r\nornamental properties of various trees of India in “Trees\r\nof India” Kala (2005) described on the ethno-medicinal\r\nbotany of the Atapani in the Eastern Himalya Region of\r\nIndia. Jain et al (2006) worked on the Ethnobotanical\r\nSurvey of Sariska and Siliserh Regions in Alwar district\r\nof Rajasthan, India. Brij Lal and Singh (2008) find out\r\nthe indigenous herbal remedies to cure skin disorders\r\nby natives of Lahaul Spiti, Himachal Pradesh.Prakash\r\n& Aggarwal (2010) highlighted the traditional uses of\r\nmedicinal plants of lower foot-hills, Himachal Pradash.\r\nKaur, et al (2011) studied the uses of plants in control\r\nof different diseases in Mandi district, Himachal\r\nPradesh. Kharwal and Rawat (2012) studied\r\nethnobotanical uses of herbal shampoo of Shivalik hills,\r\nHimachal Pradesh. Singh, et al studied ethnobotany of\r\nhigher plant in Spiti cold desert of western Himalayas.\r\nThe present study revealed the information of plants\r\nused for snake bite treatment. These plants are arranged\r\nin alphabetical order; with their family, local name,\r\npart/ parts used and folk use. The present study includes\r\n16 plants belonging to 14 families for snake bite\r\ntreatment. The predominant families are Fabaceae and\r\nRutaceae with 2 plant species and other families with\r\none plant species is used for treatment of snake bite.\r\nOut of 16 plant species, roots of 9 plant species, Leaves\r\nand flowers of 2 plant species, and seed, bark, fruit,\r\nresin, latex, rhizome and whole plant of 1 plant species\r\nused for the treatment of the snake bite treatment.','Nitesh Kumar* and Rajaram Choyal* (2012). Traditional Phytotherapy for Snake Bites by the Local Rural People of Hamirpur District in Himachal Pradesh (India)Biological Forum – An International Journal 4(1): 98-106'),(4480,'112','Evaluation on the Responses of Spanish Jasmine (Jasminum grandiflorum L.) Growth, Yield, Water and Fertilizer Use Efficiency to Drip Fertigation under Mulch condition in South India','K.S. Vijai Selvaraj* and A. Bharathi','307 Evaluation on the Responses of Spanish Jasmine Jasminum grandiflorum L._ Growth, Yield, Water and Fertilizer Use Efficiency to Drip Fertigation under Mulch condition in South India K.S. Vijai Selvaraj.pdf','',1,'The efficient use of water is crucial factor which determines the crop growth and yield during crop growth periods. Drip irrigation is one among the micro irrigation methods for irrigation, a successful technique aimed to distribute water preciously to rooting zone. Modern irrigation system application has taken a greater part in irrigation techniques which gained substantial attention in developing countries. Higher significance of drip fertigation system is that it can provide optimum water with nutrient as when required by the plants on need basis. Optimization of water and nutrient levels will play a vital role in yield maximization with quality flowers in Jasminum grandiflorum. The utilization of water within the soil root zone is crucial to increase Water Use Efficiency by adopting mulch. Three levels of Water (5, 10 and 15 LPD) and nutrient distribution (50, 75 and 100 % RDF) through drip irrigation and fertigation with plastic mulch (50 micron) was implemented in Jasminum grandiflorum at Tamil Nadu Agricultural University to study the WUE and FUE. Soil moisture content and water conservation was nearer to 80 % through 15 LPD always when compared with 10 LPD (Less than 80 %) and 5 LPD (50 % soil moisture). The ‘N’ concentration in upper soil layer (0–15 cm) was higher than the lower bottom (15–30 cm). The Same trend was observed in ‘P’ concentration. Before the fertigation, the initial K indicated the decreasing trend with respect to the depth. However, with respect to horizontal distance from emitter before fertigation the K concentration was found to be fairly uniform. After the end of fertigation cycle the highest K concentration was found in 0-15 cm soil depth and lower concentration was found in the lower layers i.e., 30–45 cm depth. The peak quantity of K was observed in the 0–15 cm depth of emitter, nearly 80 per cent of the roots were concentrated at upper soil profile (15 to 30 cm) with less tap root length because of the lesser depth of irrigation and continuous availability of moisture in that layer which paved for maximum yield and other quality parameters.','Jasminum grandiflorum, irrigation, nutrient distribution, root distribution, yield and post harvest life','The peak quantity of K was observed in the 0–15 cm depth of emitter, nearly 80 per cent of the roots were concentrated at upper soil profile (15 to 30 cm) with less tap root length because of the lesser depth of irrigation and continuous availability of moisture in that layer which paved for maximum yield and other quality parameters.','INTRODUCTION\r\nAgriculture alone occupies about 80 % of ground water (Harsh, 2017). Flooding and irrigation with small furrows were the age old and traditional systems in our country, which bear very low irrigation efficiencies, especially the distribution uniformity (Howell et al., 1981). The conventional methods of irrigation has got poor irrigation efficiency as low as 25-30 per cent (Rajput, 1988). The drawbacks of the flooding type of irrigation system in jasmine crop included non-uniform application of water, impounding in certain pockets, loss of water due to percolation and leaching of nutrients due to excess water application (Mishra et al., 1997). Bafna et al. (1993) reported that the water source through bore well or open well was becoming dry during the summer season as a result of which the farmers were quitting the further extension of cultivating Jasmine and other flower crops. Drip irrigation provides the efficient rate of water with right rate exact to root zone of the crop. In this system, only a fraction of the soil surface is wetted, which ranges from 15 to 60 per cent. Farmers can also apply fertilizers in measured quantities through drip system, simultaneously reducing chemical use and the potential for land and water pollution. Israeli engineers have developed drip systems for commercial applications. By the mid-1970s, farmers in a half-dozen countries, Australia, Israel, Mexico, New Zealand, and South Africa, were using drip methods on a portion of their cropland (Pawar et al., 1993). Bar-Yosef (1976) noted that only meager data were available on the simultaneous migration of water and ions from a point source in the field and the plant’s response to various moisture and concentration distributions in the soil. Howell et al. (1981) stated that the distribution pattern of soil moisture resulting from the drip irrigation wetting of soil was bulb like auxiliary symmetric pattern and the pattern of wetting would be two dimensional. The efficient use of water is crucial factor which determines the crop growth and yield during crop growth periods (Kader, 2019). Soil moisture distribution mainly depended on the rate of application, amount of water and initial moisture content of the soil (Khepar et al., 1983). Ramesh, 1994 stated that the drip irrigation system maintained soil moisture close to the field capacity whereas furrow irrigation maintained soil moisture at 60-70 per cent of available soil moisture at 0.6 E-pan level. The soil water content distribution in the profiles under drip fertigation treatments was relatively higher near the emitter and decreased as the distance from the emitting point increased (Chakraborty et al., 1998). Similar results were reported by number of researchers in the past ,Sivanappan and Padmakumari, (1980); Gajare (1982) and Selvaraj (1997). Drip irrigation increased yield of gourds by 13.5 per cent compared to furrow irrigation with yield increase of 12.1 per cent to 46.8 per cent (Prabhakar, 2000). Drip irrigation is one among the micro irrigation methods for irrigation, a successful technique aimed to distribute water preciously to rooting zone (Nouri et al., 2013). \r\nWUE in chilli was increased quadratically (0.83≤R2 ≤ 0.98) with days after plant emergence to harvest for the three moisture regimes by trickle irrigation (Ramesh, 1986). Water use efficiency in terms of yield was found to have significant positive correlation with total dry matter (TDM, 0.865**) and net photosynthesis (0.840**) in Capsicum under drip system of irrigation (Edna Antony and Singandhupe, 2003). Higher significance of drip fertigation system is that it can provide optimum water with nutrient as when required by the plants on need basis (Shareef et al., 2019).\r\nThe ammonium form of N derived from ammonium or urea fertilizers is not nearly so subject to immediate leaching losses because temporarily, depending on the soil, may be fixed on exchange sites in the soil. Nitrate status in soil at any time will result from a dynamic equilibrium between addition by trickle irrigation and removal by the plant plus any losses from leaching or de-nitrification. The latter may occur in heavier soils, where oxygen tension may be come limiting (Bar-Yosef and Sheikholslami 1976). Hence, irrigation design as well as the irrigation scheduling program must be appropriate to maintain desired fertility level in the soil. \r\n Potassium (K) is less mobile than nitrate, and distribution in the wetted volume may be more uniform due to interaction with soil binding sites (Bar-Yosef, 1980). Trickle applied K moves both laterally and downward, allowing more uniform spreading of K in the wetted volume of soil. Phosphorus (P), contrary to N and K, is readily fixed in most soils (Bar-Yosef, 1980), although movement of applied P differs with soil texture. Commercial standard P-fertilizers may also precipitate in the irrigation lines in reaction with ions in the irrigation water such as Ca or Mg. Due to soil fixation of the applied P and the problem of low solubility and precipitation of P in the irrigation system, it has been suggested that under such conditions P may not be applied through irrigation systems. Kabocha yield and brix level were significantly improved under a combination of subsurface drip irrigation and mulch (Alam and Zimmerman, 2003). Xie et al., (2005) found that there were increases of 0.9-30.8 per cent in evapo transpiration and 4.0-110.3 per cent in yield for all plastic mulched treatment in spring wheat. The crop coefficient of tomato under drip irrigation with black plastic mulch was lower (Amayreh and Al-Abed, 2005). Cold storage of dry branches at 0.00 ± 1.11oC (32 ± 2oF) increased the shelf life of deciduous Holly branches. Vase life decreased 2 to 8 days as storage temperature increased from 2°C to 10°C. ‘Saturn’ and ‘Charlotte’ were the only varieties where vase life was unaffected by storage temperature.. The most tolerant varieties to stressful storage conditions were ‘Charlotte’, ‘Orlando’ and ‘Saturn’ (Nell and Leonard, 2005).\r\nMATERIALS AND METHODS\r\nExperimental plot. The experimental field is located at 11°02\" North latitude and 76°57\" East longitude at an altitude of 426.72 m above MSL. During the experimental period, the maximum temperature ranged from 22.0 to 33.7° C with a mean of 29.9° C and minimum temperature ranged from 13.0 to 25.0°C with a mean of 20.8° C. The relative humidity ranged from 63 to 98 per cent with a mean of 90.5 per cent. The bright sunshine hours and wind velocity ranged from 0.0 to 11 h d-1 and from 1.8 to 18.8 km h-1 with a mean of 5.9 h d-1 and 4.7 km h-1, respectively. The total rainfall received was 550.9 mm in 27 rainy days. The pan evaporation value ranged from 1.2 to 8.6 mm with a mean of 3.7 mm. Weather data during the experimental seasons are presented in appendices.\r\nCrop and variety. It is essential to select Spanish Jasmine (Jasminum grandiflorum) variety according to the agro-climatic conditions of the area. The varieties selected should have good agro-economic efficiency in terms of their response to applied water or water use efficiency (WUE), fertilizers or fertilizer use efficiency (FUE), disease resistance and drought tolerance. The flowers of a selected variety should have good yield, shelf life, concrete content and economic value. The test crop variety was CO. 2 (Coimbatore-2), the familiar Jasmine variety evolved by Tamil Nadu Agricultural University, Coimbatore, holds high potentials under irrigated and rainfed conditions in South India. This superior Jasminum grandiflorum variety is suitable to different agro-climatic conditions that not only yield better, but also will be of high quality to support the concrete industries and resistant to climatic hazards, diseases and insects. It is most suitable for semi- arid region. The source of irrigation water was borewell. Water from the borewell was analyzed for pH, EC, total alkalinity, Cl2, SO4, Ca, Mg, Na, K, RSC, Sodium absorption ratio (SAR) and total soluble salts. The details of quality of irrigation water are presented in (Annexure I).\r\nMulch. The experimental field was laid with black polyethylene mulch of 50 micron thickness for every treatments and control without mulch.\r\nSoil wetted diameter and depth. Wetting front advance and depth of wetting in drip irrigation treatments as 5, 10 and 15 Liters per day (LPD) with 4 Liters per hour (LPH), 8 LPH and 12 LPH drippers were recorded at different times of emission.\r\n\r\nDesign and lay-out of drip system. Drip irrigation for Jasminum grandiflorum was designed by careful analysis of the design capacity, optimum size of the pipelines, discharge of drippers, capacity of filter and pump capacity. The planting was taken up at a spacing of 2.0 × 1.5 m. The system was operated at the pressure of 1.2 ksc. This pressure head was sufficient for irrigating the experimental area with paired row drip. Reduction in cost can be achieved by the adoption of suitable crop geometries, especially paired row. Adoption of this system further reduces the cost of infrastructure and mechanization and this is an added advantage. From the water source, water was pumped through 7.5 H.P motor and conveyed to the field using PVC pipe (63 mm OD) after filtering through the screen filter. By-pass arrangement was provided and used for maintaining a pressure head 1.2 ksc in the system for irrigation. \r\nDrip irrigation scheduling. The depth of water needed was calculated based on the following formula (Michael, 1978).\r\n \r\nwhere\r\nd = depth of water, cm \r\nFC = field capacity of the effective root zone, per cent dry basis\r\nWP = wilting point of the effective root zone, per cent dry basis\r\nAs = apparent specific gravity of the soil in effective root zone\r\nD = effective root zone depth, cm\r\nASMD = allowable soil moisture depletion, per cent\r\nA simple drip irrigation scheduling can be expressed by the following formula, (Wu and Gitlin, 1983).\r\n (1)\r\nwhere\r\nT = irrigation time, hr.\r\nWM = volume of water required to achieve the maximum yield, L\r\nPD = per cent deficit which was taken as zero\r\nQ = discharge required for the drip system, LPH\r\nEA = irrigation application efficiencies, per cent\r\nIrrigation application efficiency (EA), which is defined as the ratio of irrigation water stored in the root zone to the total amount applied, can be calculated by the following equation. \r\nEA = X (1 – PD) (2)\r\nwhere,\r\nX = depth ratio, which was taken as one.\r\nPD = per cent deficit\r\nSoil moisture distribution. The soil samples were taken with a screw auger at 0-15, 15–30 and \r\n30-45 cm depths after 1st, 2nd, 3rd, 4th, 5th, 6th and 7th day of irrigation in control plot. In drip irrigated plots (4, 8 and 12 LPH), soil samples were taken at 0-15, 15-30 and 30-45 cm soil depth at a distance of 0, 15, 30 and 45 cm away from the emitting device. Then the moisture content was determined by oven dry method (USDA, 1970). The moisture content was calculated by\r\n \r\nRESULTS AND DISCUSSION\r\nMoisture distribution pattern\r\nSoil water content just below the dripper, (i.e., 0 cm away from the dripper) was more to field capacity (~23.9) (Figs. 1 to 4). Soil moisture at 45 cm away from the dripper was lesser than that at 0, 15 and 30 cm at all soil depths. The soil water content was less in treatments that received lesser amount of water. In the treatment involving 15 LPD the soil moisture content in the root zone was always nearer to 80 per cent. In 10 LPD the soil moisture content was less than 80 % and in 5 LPD it was nearly 50%. This was in conformity with the findings of Rajput et al. (2005) in onion.\r\nThus in the present study, moisture content decreased as the distance increased from the emitting point. Further the soil moisture distribution mainly depended on the rate of application, amount of water and initial moisture content of the soil as already reported by Khepar et al. (1983).\r\nIn surface irrigation, the interval between the two successive irrigations was higher due to which the available soil moisture content varied from the field capacity (at the time of irrigation) to stress condition (just before consecutive irrigation). These two extremes of moisture availability cause poor physiological activity of the crop, ultimately reflecting on the growth, as already reported by many earlier workers viz., Sivanappan and Padmakumari (1980); Gajare (1982); Selvaraj (1997); Chakraborty et al. (1998). Plant height of Dutch roses have positive response with 100 % irrigation level which was on par with 80 % irrigation level reported by Singh et al. (2016).\r\nSoil temperature. The experimental field laid under black polythene mulch with 50 micron thickness and plots without mulch were tested for the soil temperature in order to check the ambient nature of rhizosphere for better crop growth and weed suppression. In general the plots laid with mulch showed ambient soil temperature (36 to 40 o C) for the activity of microbes leading to enhanced mobility of the applied nutrients. \r\nNutrient dynamics in soil\r\nNitrogen dynamics. Plant nutrient availability in the soil is very important for achieving higher production. The applied nutrients at any stage of application should properly reflect in terms of available nutrient in the soil, so that the plants could absorb these nutrients without hindrance. \r\nIn the present study the mobility of nutrients was well pronounced under drip fertigation system. In all the drip irrigation levels, the nitrogen concentration in the soil increased from the emitter upto certain depth and declined thereafter. The nitrogen concentration in upper soil layer (0-15 cm) was lower than bottom layer (15-30cm) under all the fertigation levels and at all the distances from the emitting pointing (Figs. 5 to 8). The peak nitrogen concentration was recorded in the layer of 15-30 cm depth and at a distance of 30 cm from the dripper.\r\nThe nitrate ion being mobile has a tendency to move away from the emitter to the periphery of the waterfront (Haynes, 1990). Data from the present experiment on the distribution of NO3-N (Tables 4.33 and 4.34) in the soil profile has shown that it neither accumulates at the periphery of the wetting front nor is leached from the root zone under drip system. These are in accordance with the findings of Chakraborty et al. (1999). Under this circumstance, paired row system of planting with one drip line in the middle of the rows is more advantageous as already observed by Shramiladevi (2005). \r\nPhosphorus dynamics. In the present study, a spectacular movement of phosphorus in the soil was found under all the drip fertigation levels. Unlike nitrogen, the higher concentration of phosphorus was seen at 0 – 15 cm soil layer than the 15 – 30 cm layer at all the distances from the dripper (Figs. 9 to 12). The phosphorus concentration decreased with increase in depth from the dripper. The restricted mobility of phosphorus might be due to its strong retention by soil colloids and clay minerals as already reported by Sureshkumar (2000). Higher availability of phosphorus was noticed under the treatment receiving 100 per cent recommended dose of fertilizer and decreased with decreased level of fertilizer dose.\r\nPotassium dynamics. Distribution of K varied both vertically and horizontally from the emitting point. Before the fertigation, the initial K indicated the decreasing trend with respect to the depth. However, with respect to horizontal distance from emitter before fertigation the K concentration was found to be fairly uniform. After the end of fertigation cycle the highest K concentration was found in 0-15 cm soil depth and lower concentration was found in the lower layers i.e., 30 – 45 cm depth. The peak quantity of K was observed in the 0 – 15 cm depth of emitter (Figs. 13 and 14).This falls in line with the findings of Singh et al. (2002) in mandarine orange.\r\nRoot distribution pattern. Root morphology comprises number of primary and secondary roots and length of primary and secondary roots. Apart from plant genetics and other environmental factors like soil aeration and soil hardness, the root pattern is also determined by the irrigation pattern, nutrient distribution and uptake. \r\nIn the present experiments with drip irrigation, nearly 80 per cent of the roots were concentrated at upper soil profile (15 to 30 cm) with less tap root length because of the lesser depth of irrigation and continuous availability of moisture in that layer. This is in agreement with the earlier findings of Goldberg and Shmueli (1971).Under surface irrigation, the plants produced fewer secondary roots of lesser length and density but with longer tap roots. The production of lengthier roots clearly indicates that the plant has tried hard to extract water from deeper layers to meet its water requirement. Under water stress condition, as a result of longer interval between successive surface irrigations, the root length had increased but the root biomass decreased. Drip irrigation at 10 LPD and 15 LPD under mulch had produced longer roots with more primary and secondary roots on either side, whereas in drip irrigation at lower level (5LPD) the root spread was towards the direction of dripper located at the centre of two plants and the root growth was limited due to lower wetting, as earlier observed by Martinz Hernandez et al. (1991).\r\nDrip fertigation with 100 per cent RDF and 75 percent RDF with mulch had produced higher root length than 50 per cent of fertigation level since higher availability of nutrients might have induced more root growth, hence, higher root volume. This showed the positive response of jasmine in producing longer roots under favourable nutrient status, as already reported by Leskovar et al. (1989).\r\nFurther, application of P at the active root zone might have encouraged better root growth as already observed by Besford (1979);Pandey et al. (1996); Bieleski and Rao (1986).\r\nFlowering and yield parameters. The present study revealed that lower level of water and fertilizers prolonged the first flowering compared to optimal water and nutrient with mulch condition. This might be due to increased vegetative growth induced by poor availability of moisture and nutrients in soil. Consequently, the number of days to first flowering was also increased. These results are in accordance with Romano and Leonardi (1994). Early flowering in fertigated field than under surface irrigated condition. This might be due to prevalence of comparatively higher temperature under mulch condition. Late flowering under surface irrigated condition and without mulch may be due to low solar radiation absorption by plant as interfered by shade by plants itself. Sagi et al. (1979) also obtained hastened flowering at high solar radiation. Under fertigated and mulch condition, due to high temperature the plants readily enter into the reproductive phase, which is an induced response of the plant.\r\nApplication of 100 per cent recommended dose of fertilizer recorded early flowering than with 15 LPD and mulch. This might be due to availability of nutrients in the root zone throughout the crop growth period. This is in line with the findings of Jaworski (1978), Keng et al. (1981) and Takahashi et al. (1993). Increased number of flowers per branch noticed under optimal water and nutrient i.e., 10 LPD with 75 percent RDF and mulch may be because of the prevalence of favourable conditions required for flowering under mulch. The number of flowers per branch was lower under open condition possibly due to depletion of carbohydrate by increased respiration at higher temperature. These findings are in accordance with the results of Suchindra (2002). Reduction in number of flowers might also be due to increased photorespiration during high light intensity, high temperature and long photoperiod, thereby allowing poor availability of metabolites to the reproductive parts under surface irrigated field. \r\nGenerally flowering is increased with increased levels of fertigation mainly due to early vigour shown by the crop. This could be attributed to the availability of optimum plant nutrients along with sufficient soil moisture for early development of plant parts and root system, which might have enhanced more uptake of nutrients. Availability of nutrients to roots at right stage would have enhanced synthesis of hormones such as cytokinin. Further better uptake of potassium by fertigation treatment would have helped transport of cytokinin and metabolites towards the sink.\r\nThis is in accordance with the findings of Prabhakar et al. (2001); Meenakshi and Vadivel (2003). Drip irrigation and fertilizer levels positively influenced the yield of jasmine. Tumbare and Nikam (2004) also pointed out that fertigation of RDF at every irrigation upto 70 days resulted in significantly higher yield of flower buds.\r\nHigher yield was recorded under drip irrigation (15 LPD) and 100 per cent recommended dose of fertilizers with mulch compared to other drip irrigations, fertilizer doses and surface irrigation under non mulched condition. Yield was increased with increase in drip irrigation levels and fertilizer levels with mulch, during peak flowering season, however it was on par with 75 per cent recommended dose of fertilizers with 10 LPD under mulch. Therefore drip irrigation at a schedule of 10 LPD and 75 per cent RDF with mulch is found sufficient for realizing the maximum yield. In surface irrigation the yield was very much lesser than the drip irrigation of 10, 15 LPD with 75 and 100 per cent recommended dose of fertilizers. \r\nApplication of 100 per cent RDF, 15 LPD with mulch recorded increased yield per hectare. These results are in line with the findings of AICRP (2005) reported that there was no yield reduction in some horticultural crops upto drip irrigation at 40 per cent CPE and yield was increased with increased level of recommended dose of fertilizers.\r\nThe increase in yield was due to the improvement of all crop growth and yield attributing characters due to better availability of soil moisture environment and availability of plant nutrients throughout the crop growth period under drip fertigation system. This is in concordance with the findings of many scientists.\r\nEven the same level of fertilizer application though fertigation produced higher flower yield over furrow irrigation. Application of 100 per cent RDF through fertigation produced 51.49 per cent higher yield in drip irrigation at 15 and 10 LPD with mulch over surface irrigation with manual application of RDF. Drip irrigation maintains the soil moisture around the field capacity between two irrigation intervals. On the other hand, surface irrigation has high fluctuation of moisture between field capacity and permanent wilting point. This might have resulted in lower flower yield under surface irrigation. These results collaborate with the findings of Veeranna (2000).\r\nFlower quality parameters. Quality parameters such as 100 flowers weight, diameter of flower, length of corolla tube, length of flower stalk, concrete content, distribution of flowers were more under the increased water and fertilizer doses.\r\nThese results are in accordance with the findings of Yadav and Bhupender Singh (1991); Locascio and Smajstrala (1995) and Salvadore et al. (1997); Prabhakar (1997) also reported that the continuous supply of irrigation water through drip irrigation resulted in increased quality parameters in capsicum and higher yield under protected cultivation using micro irrigation system.\r\nWater Use Efficiency. The details of irrigation water applied, for surface irrigation and drip irrigation treatments are depicted in Table 7. The amount of water required to meet the demand of evapotranspiration and metabolic activity of jasmine constitute the consumptive use of water including the effective rainfall during the crop growing season. During both the years of study consumptive use of water was higher under surface irrigation compared to drip irrigation. Saving of irrigation water was found in all drip treatments. Similar findings on water saving by drip irrigation were reported by, Ahluwaalia et al. (1993); Bafna et al. (1993); \r\nPawar et al. (1993); Ramesh et al., (1994), Irrigating the crop at 15 LPD through drip irrigation resulted in a net saving of 20.1%, whereas it was 33.0 per cent at 10 LPD, 45.3 at 5 LPD when compared to surface irrigation. However since drip irrigation at 10 LPD was found to influence all the growth and yield characters significantly in both the years, this treatment is superior over the rest of the treatments.\r\nWater use efficiency indicates the effectiveness of the applied water in terms of crop yield per unit quantity of water used. The WUE was higher under drip irrigation compared to surface irrigation, the values being 8.37, 10.35 and 6.90 kg ha-1 mm-1 in drip irrigation with15, 10 and 5 LPD respectively. Surface irrigation recorded lesser WUE (2.75 kg ha-1 mm-1). These results are in conformity with the findings of Bobade (1999) and AICRP (2005) in various horticultural crops.\r\nThe water use efficiency increased with increasing level of recommended dose of fertilizer. Application of 100 per cent RDF recorded significantly higher WUE. This might be attributed to effective utilization of fertilizers along with water as reported earlier by Chakraborty et al. (1999) and Bobade (1999) and Ramesh (1986) in vegetables.Similar increase in water use efficiency were reported by Keshavaiah and Kumarasamy (1993); Intrigiliolo et al. (1994); Hagin and Lowengart (1995) and Parikh et al. (1996). Savings in fertilizers when applied through drip irrigation was reported by Ibrahim (1992); Deshmuk et al. (1996); Parikh et al. (1996). Similar observations have also been reported by Kadam et al. (1993) in bhendi who obtained higher water use efficiency in fertigation with 100 per cent N dose. Pawar et al. (1993) found that the application of 100 per cent N and P2O5 through liquid fertilizer gave higher as well as maximum water use efficiency in drip irrigation system.\r\nFertilizer Use Efficiency. In the present investigations, increased fertilizer use efficiency with the decreasing level of fertilizer dose through drip was observed. The influence of irrigation and fertilizer levels on K and N fertilizer use efficiency are furnished in Tables 5 and 6. These observations are in line with those of Parikh et al. (1994) who reported that all the drip treatments in banana resulted in higher water expense efficiency (48 to 60 kg. ha-1 mm-1, better fertilizer use efficiency 110 to 248 kg ha-1 N-1) as compared to surface irrigation and normal fertilizer application technique.\r\nB. Quality of irrigation water. The source of irrigation water is borewell. Water from the borewell was analyzed for pH, EC, total alkalinity, Cl2, SO4, Ca, Mg, Na, K, RSC, SAR and total soluble salts. The details of quality of irrigation water are presented.','K.S. Vijai Selvaraj and A. Bharathi (2022). Evaluation on the Responses of Spanish Jasmine (Jasminum grandiflorum L.) Growth, Yield, Water and Fertilizer Use Efficiency to Drip Fertigation under Mulch Condition in South India. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 14(1): 1757-1771.'),(4481,'124','Biological Effect of Electromagnetic Field of VDU on Immune cells of Balb/C Mice',' Harvinder Singh, Charn Kumar and Upma Bagai','16 HARVINDER.pdf','',1,'The present study investigates the harmful effect of electromagnetic radiations emitted from VDU (video display unit) of CRT monitor on white blood cells of male Balb/C mice, 20 cm away, at power density of 0.295 mw/cm2. The white blood cells were evaluated for morphology, physical nature of blood smear, Differential leukocyte count (DLC), total leukocyte count (TLC), mortality and scanning electron microscopic studies at the interval of 7, 14, 28 and 42 days of irradiations. The result showed altered blood smear, morphology, apoptosis rate and scanning electron micrograph of WBCs. Lymphocytes (L) and TLC in exposed groups were increased while monocytes (M) and neutrophils (N) reduced at various interval of experiment. Collectively these findings indicate that EMF issuing from VDU adversely affects immune system.','Balb/c mice, Immune cells, VDU, Electromagnetic field and SEM.','The present study investigates the harmful effect of electromagnetic radiations emitted from VDU (video display unit) of CRT monitor on white blood cells of male Balb/C mice, 20 cm away, at power density of 0.295 mw/cm2. The white blood cells were evaluated for morphology, physical nature of blood smear, Differential leukocyte count (DLC), total leukocyte count (TLC), mortality and scanning electron microscopic studies at the interval of 7, 14, 28 and 42 days of irradiations. The result showed altered blood smear, morphology, apoptosis rate and scanning electron micrograph of WBCs. Lymphocytes (L) and TLC in exposed groups were increased while monocytes (M) and neutrophils (N) reduced at various interval of experiment. Collectively these findings indicate that EMF issuing from VDU adversely affects immune system.','Technology is the lifeline of modern day society. We are exposed to the electromagnetic fields as a result of progresses in technology and science. Every electronic equipment used by us in day to day life produces electromagnetic fields (Ongel et al, 2009). Despite of benefits electromagnetic fields can affect living organisms (Hood, 2004). These fields interfere with body’s own electromagnetic energy system and thus causing a considerable stress, which are manifested in various health problems including lowered immune system (Hashish et al., 2008; Simko and Mattson, 2012). Electromagnetic fields of certain frequency make alterations in T- lymphocytes and other immune system leading to immunosupression, partially through induced calcium ion efflux (Cherry, 1997). Continuous exposure to ELF-EMF may induce testicular germ apoptosis in mice (Lee et al., 2004) and affect lymphetic organs such as liver, spleen and lymph nodes (Attia and Yehia, 2002; Zaghloul,2011). \r\nElectromagnetic field emitted by VDU may cause alteration in humoural immunity and reduction in growth and body weight (Youbicier-Simo et al., 1997). In the present study Balb/c mice were exposed to EMF of VDU screen of CRT monitor to note the alterations in the immune cells of exposed mice. \r\nMATERIAL AND METHODS\r\n White Swiss mice Mus musculus (Balb/C strain) of male sex, 6-8 weeks old, weighing about 16-22 g were used as experimental model for the present study. These were obtained from the central animal house, Panjab University, Chandigarh and kept for one week in the experimental room for acclimatization and after one week animals were used for experimentation. Animals were fed a standard pellet diet and water. Control and exposed mice were exposed to the same environment barring the exposure field. The temperature of the room was maintained at 25-28°C. Relative humidity was 50-70% and dark/light schedule of 12/12 hours was maintained. \r\nThe mice of various groups were given exposure to electromagnetic radiations 8-10 hours/day by placing 20 cm away from video display unit (VDU) of computer monitor in the especially designed plastic cage. Exposure source was Samsung–syncmaster 753s (17” digital color monitor).\r\nPower density (0.295 mw/cm2) was measured with ‘RF Field Strength Meter’ at 20 cm in front of monitor. The control and exposed group were kept apart so that there is no interference of exposed field.\r\nExperimental Design: Two groups having five mice and twenty mice respectively were used for the present study. The experimental mice were given exposure of computer monitor (VDU) for 8-10 hours daily for different time intervals. \r\nGI: This group consisted of five normal control mice which were not exposed to any source of radiations. \r\nGII: Twenty mice of this group were exposed to VDU (8-10h/day) for different time intervals i.e. for 7 days, 14 days, 28 days and 42 days respectively. \r\n Differential leukocyte count (DLC), total leukocyte count (TLC) of both groups control (GI) and exposed (GII) was recorded after 7, 14, 28 and 42 days. Statistical Analysis of the data was presented as the mean ± SD for each correlation was calculated using Microsoft Excel. The variations observed in the values of various parameters under study in VDU exposed group were compared with control (GI) at different intervals \r\n\r\nof experiment. The data were analyzed using SPSS program (statistical package for social sciences Inc. Chicago, Illinois).\r\n Mice of GII were sacrificed by jugular vein incision after anesthetizing with diethyl ether on day 7, 14, 28 and 42. Control mice were sacrificed on day 42of experiment. Blood was aspirated in citrate saline (0.85% (w/v) sodium chloride; 3.8% (w/v) sodium citrate). Pooled blood of same group was subjected to density gradient centrifugation using histopaque-1119 (sigma). \r\nDifferential Leukocyte Count (DLC):\r\nFor DLC thin blood smears of were made from tail snips and stained in Giemsa stain (3% Giemsa stock in 0.95 % (w/v) sodium phosphate dibasic, 0.91% (w/v) potassium phosphate monobasic) for half an hour and observed under microscope (100x) using immersion oil. The percentage of mononuclear (MN) cells i.e. lymphocytes (L) and monocytes (M) and polymorphonuclear (PMN) cells i.e. neutrophils (N) was calculated (Fatayer, 2006). \r\nCalculation of Total Leukocyte Count (TLC):\r\nUsing Neuber’s Hemocytometer kit, TLC of all the mice of both groups (GI and GII) was done using Turk’s fluid (10% (w/v)) gentian violet and 1.5% glacial acetic acid in distilled water). The number of WBCs will is counted in 4 squares (1, 3, 7 & 9) of the slide under microscope at 10x or 40x as per convenience.\r\nUsing the number of WBCs in 4 squares TLC will be calculated according to following calculations:\r\nSay number of WBCs in square 1,3,7,9 is \r\na + b + c + d = y\r\nArea of each square = 1 mm2 , height = 1/10 mm\r\nTherefore, volume = 1/10 x 1 = 1/10 mm3\r\n1/10 mm3 contains = y/4 WBCs\r\n1 mm3 contain = y/4 x 10 WBCs\r\nAs the solution is diluted 20 times\r\nTherefore, 1 mm3 contains = \r\nSeparation of WBCs by Density Gradient Centrifugation:\r\nBlood of mice was aspirated using Pasteur’s pipette in citrate saline by incising jugular vein. Pooled blood of each group of mice was subjected to density gradient centrifugation using histopaque-1119 to separate WBCs using following procedure (Czuprynski and Brown, 1998).\r\nFluorescent Staining Using Acridine Orange (AO) / Ethidium Bromide (EB):\r\nWBCs aspirated by density centrifugation of blood were subjected to fluorescent staining to study apoptosis. WBCs suspension was incubated with 20µl of AO/EB solution (1 part 100µg/ml AO in PBS; 1part of 100µg/ml EB in PBS). The suspension was mixed gently and each sample was mixed just prior to its examination by fluorescent microscope (Leica, Germany) and its quantification, there after (Kasibhatla, 1998). \r\nAdded 1-2 drops of this suspension on a microscopic slide and covered with a glass cover slip. Cells were examined under fluorescent microscope using fluorescent filter. 500 cells were counted in each group to calculate the percentage of live and dead cells by the following formula:\r\n \r\nLive cells stained fluorescent green, whereas, dead cells appeared orange under ultra violet light. \r\nRESULTS AND DISSCUSSION\r\nMost of the studies pertain to the effect of electromagnetic fields from power lines, microwave, color TV screens and self designed instruments. But little work so far has been reported on the harms of EMF of computer monitors. Computers are extensively used in every sphere of life. During on phage the screen of CRT monitor can emit EMF ranging from X-rays to extremely low frequency (ELF) and very low frequency fields (VLF) (Kavet and Tel, 1991; Luketina,1975). In the last few decades various studies carried out on mice, rat and human showed that electromagnetic fields induced changes in hematological parameters in these organisms (High et al., 2000; Ali et al., 2003; Sihem et al., 2006; Hassan and Abdelkawi, 2010). \r\nThe present study was carried to assess the effect of EMF emitted from VDU of computer monitor on cells of immune of male Balb/c mice. Results of present study points to harmful effects of continuous long term exposure of computer monitors on Balb/C mice. Percentage of lymphocytes in the exposed group of mice increased while that of N and M decreased with the rise in period of exposure (Fig. 1-3). In exposed group L showed maximum increase (27.9%) after 42 day irradiation while maximum decrease in M (59.9%) and N (29.3%) was reported after 42 days of exposure compared to control (Table 1). Number of lymphocytes is normally enhanced due to external antigen stimulus or diseased state under normal conditions. The increase in the lymphocytes may be because of reduction in the \r\nvalue of monocytes and neutrophils. Declined number of phagocytic cells (N and M) points to depressed level of immunity in exposed mice to pathogens. Similarly \r\n\r\nTotal Leukocyte Count (TLC) in exposed mice group was more when compared with the control, which indicate activation of the immune system as a result of exposure to electromagnetic radiations (Table. 1). In exposed group maximum increase in the TLC was observed after 42 days of exposure (24.7%), when compared with GI at respective time intervals (Fig. 4). Morphological assessment of apoptosis in WBCs was done by AO/EB staining. Live cells stained fluorescent green, whereas, dead cells appeared orange under ultra violet light (Fig. 8,9). Maximum percentage of live WBCs was seen in normal mice i.e. 89.16% (Table. 1). The percentage of dead white blood cells increased with increase in exposure time in GII. It was 15.8%, 19% and 21.4% and 25.54% after days 7, 15, 30 and 45 of exposure respectively (Fig. 5).\r\n\r\nLymphocytes in exposed mice (GII and GIII) have been observed to have less basophilic nucleus, large size and cytoplasm clearly visible (Fig. 6 D). Horse shoe shaped nucleus of monocytes has also been observed to swell up in exposed groups (Fig. 6E). Similarly multilobed nucleus of neutrophil has become hyper segmentation. The neutrophil took little stain like that of lymphocytes and monocytes (Fig. 6F). Our results confirm the findings of Gagnon et al. (2003) and Usman, A.D. (2012).\r\n \r\n\r\n\r\nBut our results did not confirm the findings of Hashish et al., 2007. He reported a significant decrease in the count of monocytes, peripheral lymphocytes as well as spleen total T and B lymphocyte values in mice subjected to static magnetic field and ELF-MF exposure. White blood cells constitute the defense system of body and any alteration in their value has been associated with various types of infections. But in present case only radiations are source of stimulation of WBC which shows variation in number, morphology and mortality. Increase in the lymphocytes and TLC points towards stimulation of immune system of mice after exposure to EMF as observed in infection with pathogens (Shandala and Vinogradov, 1978; Alghamdi and El- Ehazaly, 2012). The increase in lymphocytes may be due to the harmful action of electromagnetic fields exposure that stimulates the hemopoitic system to release more lymphocytes causing the increase in their number in the blood. Lymphocytes are associated with antibody production and antibody mediated immunity (B-cell and T-cell) in the body. Continuous rise in lymphocytes, when there is no any infection in the body can leads to many diseases (Bonhomme-Faivre et al., 2004). The blood smear was found altered because of exposure as observed by Alghamdi and El- Ehazaly 2012. The shapes of various leucocytes were distorted, which may cause lowered cell activity (Gagnon et al., 2003; Usman, A.D. 2012). Majority of WBCs seen in DLC are actually apoptotic/ dead cells. It emphasize that the immune system is affected because dead WBCs cannot take part in defense mechanism. The SEM of MN and PMN did not reveal its normal membrane structure and morphology may be because of damaging effect of EMF on cell membrane (Ali et al., 2003). There was decrease in the number of M (phagocytes) and N in both the exposed groups. This could also affect the immune system of mice. Thus this clearly indicate that exposure to VDU radiations even for short period of time affect the immune system adversely and make the body prone more infections. \r\n',' Harvinder Singh, Charn Kumar and Upma Bagai (2012). Biological Effect of Electromagnetic Field of VDU on Immune cells of Balb/C Mice.Biological Forum – An International Journal 4(2): 82-91.'),(4482,'124','Effect of Azotobacter chroococcum Inoculated Lantana camara Compost on Wheat Crop Yield','Shivani Chauhan* & Saneel K. Thakur**','15 DR SUNIL THAKUR.pdf','',1,'The manurial utility of abundantly available lush green succulent biomass of Lantana camara was investigated through two waste management practices i.e. directly incorporated as well as composting in wheat crop. The compost was inoculated with Trichoderma viride and Azotobacter chroococcum cultures for rapid quality composting. Direct incorporation of green biomass and utilization as Lantana compost proved beneficial in improving grain and straw yields of wheat. Taking mean values of the yield of wheat obtained at four levels (N0, N60, N90, N120) of applied nitrogen it was observed that utilization of Lantana both as green matter and compost had significant effect on grain and straw yield in wheat crop over no Lantana. Grain and straw yields increased with increasing levels of nitrogen upto the level of 120kg N/ha. Also, the incorporation of Lantana as green matter or compost increased the grain protein of wheat crop. Results of the studies brought out conclusively that the abundantly available green biomass of Lantana with exorbitant power of regeneration could be directly utilized as organic manure provided the crop rotation as well as the weather conditions permit the green matter to decompose for atleast twenty days before sowing of the next crop. Out of the two practices the utilization of Lantana as compost proved to be better. ','Lantana camara, compost, Azotobacter chroococcum, nitrogen fixing bacteria','The manurial utility of abundantly available lush green succulent biomass of Lantana camara was investigated through two waste management practices i.e. directly incorporated as well as composting in wheat crop. The compost was inoculated with Trichoderma viride and Azotobacter chroococcum cultures for rapid quality composting. Direct incorporation of green biomass and utilization as Lantana compost proved beneficial in improving grain and straw yields of wheat. Taking mean values of the yield of wheat obtained at four levels (N0, N60, N90, N120) of applied nitrogen it was observed that utilization of Lantana both as green matter and compost had significant effect on grain and straw yield in wheat crop over no Lantana. Grain and straw yields increased with increasing levels of nitrogen upto the level of 120kg N/ha. Also, the incorporation of Lantana as green matter or compost increased the grain protein of wheat crop. Results of the studies brought out conclusively that the abundantly available green biomass of Lantana with exorbitant power of regeneration could be directly utilized as organic manure provided the crop rotation as well as the weather conditions permit the green matter to decompose for atleast twenty days before sowing of the next crop. Out of the two practices the utilization of Lantana as compost proved to be better. ','Depletion of non-renewable sources of energy, escalating cost of fertilizers and environment quality of aspects necessitated the review of various approaches focusing on the use of available renewable sources of plant nutrition for sustainable agricultural production. As a result renewed research efforts are being made systematically to evaluate the feasibility and efficiency of bio-degradable wastes of produced at farms, agro-industries and cities, in re-furnishing soil productivity and improving the efficiency of chemical fertilizers.\r\nCompositing is one of the few natural processes capable of stabilizing organic wastes. Development of technologies of composting and co-composting for the production of quality manures from wastes of diverse origin and nature has therefore, become a vital issue for not only meeting the requirements of organic matter for sustaining higher productivity of crops but also to converse our resources. Compost when properly prepared and used can help to promote low-input agricultural system to become more sustainable and productive (Golabi et al., 2004). Composted organic material contains essential nutrients for plant growth, especially N and P Beltran et al., (2002) and Nyamangara et al. (2003) reported that the organic waste composted manure application even enhance the use efficiency of mineral nitrogen fertilizer by crops when the two were applied in combination.\r\nManure is readily available with farmers but its nutrient concentration is low. There is possibility of improving the nitrogen content of compost by inoculation with nitrogen fixing microorganisms, which convert dinitrogen to ammonia. One of the most interesting non-symbiotic bacteria that have great potential for use in production of biofertilizer is Azotobacter chroococcum, having ability to fix atmospheric nitrogen (N2) into ammonia in a reaction catalysed by nitrogenase enzyme complex (Sabra et al., 2000; Bakulin et al., 2007).\r\nLantana camara (common name Lantana, Wild sage, locally known as Bara Phulnoo in Himachal Pradesh) is one of the most widely occurring shrub that has shown alarming growth in recent years, in the state of Himachal Pradesh. The plant has now spread to almost all states in India. It belongs to the family Verbenaceae, is an exotic ornamental shrub. Complete eradication of Lantana is both difficult and costly (Kohli and Rani, 1994; Shrestha Vaidya et al., 2005). \r\nLantana biomass has potential for utilization as organic manure, has antimicrobial, insecticidal and medicinal properties also. Lantana camara makes available huge nitrogen rich succulent biomass, which has potential to be utilized as a substrate for organic recycling. Recycling of Lantana camara has been practiced sometimes as unprocessed i.e. direct incorporation of plant in the field or processing it as compost. No study has been carried out to compare the relative efficiency of processed and unprocessed biomass utilization of Lantana in crop production. The addition of compost or green manure is an important way to improve the soil in degraded areas since nitrogen and other nutrients, as well as organic matter which improves soil structure, is added with the organic material (Caravaca et al. 2002; Muthukumar and Udaiyan, 2000, Nziguheba et al. 2000; Shrestha Vaidya et al.2007). \r\nKeeping in view the importance and scope of composting and ever spreading menace of Lantana as described above, the present investigation was planned to study the relative efficiency of Lantana compost and fresh biomass application of Lantana with graded doses of nitrogen fertilizer on the grain and straw yields as well as grain protein in wheat crop.\r\nMATERIALS AND METHODS\r\nProcurement and Maintenance of Culture: Cultures of Azotobacter chroococcum and Trichoderma viride were obtained from the Department of Microbiology, College of Basic Sciences, CSKHPKV Palampur, Kangra (H.P.) and the microorganisms were maintained on Jensen’s agar slants and Potato dextrose agar slants, respectively. \r\nSurvival of Azotobacter chroococcum during composting: Survival of Azotobacter was monitored at 60th and 90th day of composting by most probable number given by Alexander (1982).\r\npH: The pH was determined by using digital pH meter (Decibel, India) by diluting the sample in the ratio of 1:10 with water (w/v) as described by Jackson (1972).\r\nMoisture: Moisture was determined by the method of AOAC (1970). \r\nOrganic Carbon: Organic carbon was estimated by combustion method as given by Black (1982) by ashing the material in muffle furnace at 6500C for 5 hours. The loss in organic matter was divided by 1.724 to determine the organic carbon content.\r\nTotal Nitrogen: Total nitrogen was determined by Kjeldahl’s method given by Black (1982) using Kjeldatherm (Gerhardt, Germany).\r\nField Evaluation of Lantana camara: Two practices of utilization of green matter of Lantana camara were used \r\n(i) Green Biomass of Lantana\r\nClippings of Lantana camara including leaves and succulent twigs were collected. These were manually cut to about 5cm size and incorporated @5t/ha on the surface soil (0-15cm) of the respective experimental plots with the help of spade in the Research Farm of the Dept. of Microbiology, College of Basic Sciences, CSKHPKV, Palampur Kangra (H.P.). The field was irrigated and the incorporated material was allowed to decompose for 20 days before sowing of wheat crop.\r\n\r\n(ii) Lantana camara compost preparation\r\nCompost was prepared from green biomass of Lantana supplemented with dung, soil, and FYM (Table 1) in the ratio of 8:1:0.5:0.5 (on dry weight basis) respectively (Anonymous, 1993). The preparation of compost was done in 1 m3 cemented pits. The pits were filled layer by layer using substrates, microbial inoculants, as per Table 2. On the basis of quality testing (unpublished data) the compost of T4 treatment was used for field evaluation. The compost was applied @5t/ha in the respective experimental fields as per treatments (Table 3). Just before trial chemical compostion of Lantana green & Lantana compost was also analysed (Table 4).\r\nThe wheat crop (Triticum aestivum) variety HPW-89 was raised using twelve treatments (Table 4) in Randomized Block Design with three replications. The plot size used was 5x2 m2. The crop was sown and raised under irrigated conditions. One half of the total nitrogen was applied at the sowing time through urea (46% N), the remaining half dose of nitrogen was top-dressed after full germination of seeds. All the standard agricultural practices were followed during growth of the crop. The crop was raised upto maturity, harvested and data on the grain and straw yields of the crop was recorded. Grain and straw samples were collected separately, oven dried at 700C±50C ground in Wiley mill and stored in paper bags, for subsequent analyses.\r\nStatistical analysis: The data obtained from field and laboratory studies were statistically analysed by the method of Gomez and Gomez (1984). The treatment effects were characterized on the basis of CD at 5% level of significance.\r\nRESULTS\r\nSurvival of Azotobacter during composting: The survival of Azotobacter chrooococcum was monitored periodically at 60 and 90 days of composting with initial Azotobacter population of 88 x106 cell/g. Azotobacter was inoculated only in treatment T3 and T4 (Table 2). Initially there was decrease upto 60 days and then it got stabilized subsequently upto 90 days (Table 5).\r\nField evaluation of green matter and compost of Lantana \r\nGrain and straw yield: The perusal of data on grain and straw yields of wheat crop revealed that Lantana manures significantly increased the grain and straw yields over no Lantana. The highest grain and straw yields were recorded by Lantana compost, which was significantly higher than the straw and grain yield obtained by Lantana green. Nitrogen levels significantly affected the grain and straw yields of wheat crop. The Grain and straw yields increased significantly with increase in level of nitrogen from 0-120kgN/ha. The highest grain and straw yields were obtained by application of 120kgN/ha (N120) which was significantly higher than N90 and N60.\r\nApplication of Lantana green or Lantana compost along with 60kgN/ha recorded yields statistically at par with the yield obtained by the application of 90kgN/ha alone. Similarly, application of Lantana green or Lantana compost along with 90kgN/ha recorded straw yield statistically at par with the yields of obtained by the application of 120kg N/ha alone (Table 6).\r\nEffect of Lantana manures and fertilizer nitrogen on the grain protein in wheat: The data revealed that Lantana manures significantly affected the grain protein over no Lantana. Further, both Lantana green as well as Lantana compost had almost similar effect on grain protein (Table 7). The data revealed that Lantana manures significantly affected the grain protein over no Lantana. \r\nNitrogen application at different levels (N60, N90 and N120) significantly effects on the grain protein over no nitrogen. The grain protein content was observed to increase with increase in nitrogen levels. Therefore, maximum grain protein was recorded with the application of 120kgN/ha (N120) followed by 90kgN/ha (N90).\r\nDISCUSSION\r\nSurvival of Azotobacter chroococcum during Composting: There is possibility of enriching the compost with regard to its nitrogen content by inoculating Azotobacter. But such enrichment can be done only after the material has decomposed partly and not before composting, since, Azotobacter chroococcum does not have the ability to survive at high temperature that prevail during the first month of decomposition process. The survival of Azotobacter inoculated at 30th day of composting was thus monitored at 60 and 90 days of composting. The initial Azotobacter population was recorded to be 88x106 cells g-1. The population decreased from initial to final stages tremendously, which may be due to the inhibition of microbial activity. The Azotobacter population however, decreased upto 60 days of composting and then it got stabilized subsequently at 90 days of composting i.e. 7x102 cells g-1 and 9x102 cells g-1 in treatment T3 and T4, respectively. These findings are in accordance with (Kapoor et al. 1983; Thakur and Sharma, 1998; Banta and Dev, 2009).\r\nField evaluation of green matter and compost of Lantana: Addition of organic matter such as green manure is a common practice to improve soil nutrient content and soil structure. Organic residues from plants such as Tithonia diversifolia and Lantana camara have been found to be especially beneficial since they are reported to have a high content of N and P, which is mineralized rapidly from the organic material (Nziguheba et al. 2000)\r\nTaking mean values of the yield of wheat obtained at four levels of applied nitrogen it was observed that utilization of Lantana both as green matter and compost had significant effect on grain and straw yield in wheat crop over no Lantana. The useful effect of green matter of Lantana can be attributed to its high nitrogen content and succulent nature (Bhardwaj and Kanwar, 1991). It improves the microenvironment in root zone (Rhizosphere), which in turn, increased the N and P use efficiency by wheat crop, which was ultimately reflected in the yield data Tripathi et al., (1992). Nziguheba et al. (2000) found that P is released more rapidly from such organic residues than from triple superphosphate. Nitrogen content of the plant residues plays an important role in its transformations; Organic substances containing more than 1.8% N, upon decomposition, immediately increase the inorganic nitrogen level in the soil. Here mineralization rate exceeds the immobilization rate. A temporary removal of inorganic nitrogen follows the application of plant material with 1.2 to 1.3% N, but the initial period is followed by a stage in which mineralization exceeds immobilization so that the ammonia or nitrate accumulate in soil (Christen, 1986). The significant results obtained from the incorporation of the Lantana compost show that it is better alternative to conserve the plant nutrients.\r\nCompost is prepared in the month of August when the plant shows peak vegetative growth. At this time cultivated lands are occupied by crops and there is no possibility of applying the green matter directly to the soil. Production of compost thus appears to be the feasible alternative to utilize the abundant green biomass of Lantana at this time of the year. The compost production at this time by mixing animal dung and green biomass of Lantana serves as stable manure for the crops sown in the succeeding rabi season. Animal dung serves as a good inoculant material to promote microbial activity in compost (Bhardwaj, 1983). Also, Azotobacter inoculation helps to improve the nitrogen content of the compost thus resulting in good compost (Banta and Dev, 2009).\r\nIn the present study, grain and straw yields increased with increasing levels of nitrogen upto the level of 120kgN/ha in wheat. These observations are in conformation with the results obtained by Bhardwaj and Gaur (1985) and Kapur et al, (1986). The increase in growth attributes due to increasing levels of nitrogen application is quite obvious as at higher nitrogen levels the growth activity of the crop is likely to be greater.\r\nThe incorporation of Lantana as a green matter or compost increased the grain protein, similar results were earlier reported by Tisdale et al. (1995). Since, Lantana is rich in nitrogen and phosphorus was uniformly applied as per its recommend dose, it might have resulted in profuse and extensive root growth resulting in higher concentrations of grain protein.\r\nThe organic wastes originating from plant resources are subjected to intense state of biotransformations resulting in biodegradation of larger tissues and molecules to smaller ones, which later recombined to form complex humic molecules in the soil. Soil microorganisms play a dominant role in all these bio chemical processes not only as silent scavengers but also as eminent biochemists and biotechnologists.\r\nThe biodegradation process of the added organic wastes and residues is carried out by different groups of heterotrophic microorganisms, viz, bacteria, actinomycetes, fungi and protozoa. The role of cellulolytic and lignolytic microorganisms is of prime importance. Microorganisms involved in the process derived their energy and carbon from the decomposition of carbonaceous materials.\r\nHeterotrophs which utilize oxygen, decompose organic residues and assimilate some of carbon, nitrogen, phosphorus, sulphur and other nutrients for synthesis of their cell - protoplasm, resulting in the production of carbon dioxide, humic substances and release of available plant nutrients. Carbon serving as energy source and basic material for cell synthesis is assimilated in the greater amount than nitrogen. In general, for every ten parts of carbon one part of nitrogen is required for building up the cell protoplasm. About two-third of the carbon is respired/evolved as CO2 and the remaining one-third is combined with nitrogen in the livings cells (Gaur et al., 1984).\r\nFurther, the different groups of microflora respond differently to the type of organic residues. The fresh undecomposed carbonaceous material significantly alter their population as compared to the stable manures, bacteria being affected to a greater extend then fungi and actinomycetes. The bacterial population, in general, shows an early increase, fungi and actinomycetes dominating at mid and later stages of decomposition. Besides, the addition of easily decomposable material to the soil to stimulate the microorganisms that they not only attack the readily decomposable carbon of these materials but also decompose some relatively resistant native organic matter (Bhardwaj and Gaur, 1985; Bhardwaj and Patil, 1982).\r\n','Shivani Chauhan* & Saneel K. Thakur** (2012).Effect of Azotobacter chroococcum Inoculated Lantana camara Compost on Wheat Crop Yield.Biological Forum – An International Journal 4(2): 75-81 .'),(4483,'124','','','1 DR JOY DE.pdf','',1,'','','','',''),(4484,'121','','','2 RAVI GOWDA.pdf','',1,'','','','',''),(4485,'121','Incidence of Multidrug-Resistant (MDR) and Extensively drug Resistant (XDR) Tuberculosis among Different age Groups in Tertiary Care Hospitals of Chandigarh, India','Phageshwar*, Imtiyaz Wani** and Jagdish Chander*','3 DR IMITIYAZ.pdf','',1,'Chandigarh has been adjudged among the top five performing states and union territories in the country by TB India-2008 RNTCP (Revised National Tuberculosis Control Programme) status report, brought out by the Union Health Ministry. In controlling TB, Chandigarh is now at par with Delhi, Rajasthan, Gujarat and Arunachal Pradesh. According to National Rural Health Mission, in 2008, 13,937 patients were examined for sputum diagnosis, out of which 1,793 were found positive and 837 new smear positive patients were put on treatment. The other smear positive patients were either referred to other states or were treated under other categories of treatment. The new sputum positive detection rate is 84 per lakh of population in Chandigarh. Up to December, 2008, 15,123 patients were put on treatment. In calendar year 2008, the total annual detection rate was 243 per lakh. There were only two per cent death among 2400-odd patients put on treatment in one year, two per cent failure rate and three per cent defaulter rate, the lowest in the country. A total of 910 cases of pulmonary tuberculosis were enrolled over four years (2008-2012). Among these, cases of MDR-TB and XDR-TB were meticulously studied for drug susceptibility, treatment, adverse effects profile and overall survival. Fifty-two (5.7%) cases of MDR-TB were identified, among which eight (15.3%) were diagnosed as XDR-TB on the basis of drug susceptibility testing, using the prescribed definition. The cases were sensitive to 2, 3, 4, 5 and more than 5 drugs in almost equal proportions. Thirty-seven (71.1%) cases were successfully cured; eleven (21.1%) patients died; and only four (7.6%) cases defaulted, indicating overall satisfactory adherence to treatment. For effective treatment of MDR-TB and XDR-TB, early case detection, improved laboratory facilities, availability of appropriate treatment regimens, and financial assistance in resource-limited settings through effective political intervention are necessary for better patient adherence and overall cure.','Tuberculosis, multidrug-resistant tuberculosis, extensively drug resistant tuberculosis, drug susceptibility testing.','Chandigarh has been adjudged among the top five performing states and union territories in the country by TB India-2008 RNTCP (Revised National Tuberculosis Control Programme) status report, brought out by the Union Health Ministry. In controlling TB, Chandigarh is now at par with Delhi, Rajasthan, Gujarat and Arunachal Pradesh. According to National Rural Health Mission, in 2008, 13,937 patients were examined for sputum diagnosis, out of which 1,793 were found positive and 837 new smear positive patients were put on treatment. The other smear positive patients were either referred to other states or were treated under other categories of treatment. The new sputum positive detection rate is 84 per lakh of population in Chandigarh. Up to December, 2008, 15,123 patients were put on treatment. In calendar year 2008, the total annual detection rate was 243 per lakh. There were only two per cent death among 2400-odd patients put on treatment in one year, two per cent failure rate and three per cent defaulter rate, the lowest in the country. A total of 910 cases of pulmonary tuberculosis were enrolled over four years (2008-2012). Among these, cases of MDR-TB and XDR-TB were meticulously studied for drug susceptibility, treatment, adverse effects profile and overall survival. Fifty-two (5.7%) cases of MDR-TB were identified, among which eight (15.3%) were diagnosed as XDR-TB on the basis of drug susceptibility testing, using the prescribed definition. The cases were sensitive to 2, 3, 4, 5 and more than 5 drugs in almost equal proportions. Thirty-seven (71.1%) cases were successfully cured; eleven (21.1%) patients died; and only four (7.6%) cases defaulted, indicating overall satisfactory adherence to treatment. For effective treatment of MDR-TB and XDR-TB, early case detection, improved laboratory facilities, availability of appropriate treatment regimens, and financial assistance in resource-limited settings through effective political intervention are necessary for better patient adherence and overall cure.','Tuberculosis remains one of the major public health problems in India. It has been estimated that about 30% of the world’s tuberculosis patients are residing in India. Since the control measures for tuberculosis such as BCG vaccination and chemoprophylaxis seem to be unsatisfactory, treatment with anti-tuberculosis drugs becomes inevitable. In recent years, the treatment of tuberculosis has been threatened by the increasing number of patients with drug resistant tuberculosis. Although the phenomenon of drug resistance to Mycobacterium tuberculosis was observed even in the early days of streptomycin usage, the current threat is due to emergence of strain resistant to potent bactericidal anti-tuberculosis drugs such as isoniazide (H) and rifampicin (R) which are used in the TB programmes.\r\nMultidrug-resistant tuberculosis has evolved as a significant public health problem worldwide and an obstacle to the effective global control of TB in recent years (Arova et al 2007 & Mak et al 2008). The incidence has an upward trend. According to estimates of the World Health Organization (WHO) Stop TB Department, the number of incident cases (including new and re-treatment cases) occurring worldwide in 2003 alone were to the extent of 4,58,000 (95% confidence limits, 3,21,000-16,89,000) with a projected figure of prevalent cases two to three times higher (WHO/HTM/TB/2006). \r\nPer recent published reports from India, MDR-TB has been found in 3% of new and 12% of treated patients (Arova et al 2007). Other studies in India have also shown that the rates of acquired drug resistance are invariably higher than the rates of primary drug resistance (Arora and Visalakshi 2003); however, there are no published reports from the Punjab state so far. More recently, since March 2006, extensively drug-resistant tuberculosis (XDR-TB) has become the most alarming issue in the international effort to control TB in view of the poor treatment options and poor outcomes in those who are affected in both developing countries as well as in the developed world( Raviglione 2008) .One report published in 2007 from Mumbai, India, observed 9-11% of MDR-TB having XDR-TB cases, although the expected figures would be higher, as there is lack of culture facilities (Udwadia 2008). Subsequently in 2008, our report of 15.3% of XDR-TB among the MDR cases was published (Bikram et al 2008) .The present study of MDR-TB is the first of its kind from the Punjab state of India.\r\nStudy Population\r\nThis was a prospective, longitudinal, hospital-based clinico-microbiological observational study conducted at the Hospital associated with the Government Medical College Chandigarh, Punjab, India, where all the suspected MDR-TB cases from the Govt.Medical College & Hospital (a tertiary health care centre), and all the peripheral and central hospitals of the state are referred for evaluation and management. A prospective analysis was performed regarding the treatment outcome of 910 cases of pulmonary tuberculosis registered under RNTCP (Revised National Tuberculosis Programme) in March 2008 to February 2012.\r\nData Collection\r\nData was collected by analysis of the treatment cards of patients enrolled for directly observed treatment short-course (DOTS) at each visit to the hospital. All registered MDR TB cases were treated with the appropriate dosage of drugs per the sensitivity panel and followed up regularly.\r\nDiagnostic Methods\r\nDiagnosis was made on the basis of clinical features, chest radiography, sputum microscopy, and other supportive laboratory parameters including Monteux text, ELISA, polymerase chain reaction, and adenosine deaminase levels in pleural fluids. Among 910 cases, 386 (42.4%) were sputum smear positive. Cases were put on the recommended anti-tubercular treatment \r\n\r\nregimen. Those cases who had treatment failure were subjected to sputum culture and drug susceptibility tests. Sputum culture and drug susceptibility testing were conducted in all such cases in Laboratory, Department of Microbiology, Govt.Medical College, Chandigarh by using the BACTEC MGIT960 instrument optimized for rapid detection of mycobacteria from the clinical specimens. Samples collected from patients were processed and inoculated into BBLMGIT 7 ml tubes at 37oC. The culture vials contained a fluorescence sensor that responds to the concentration of oxygen in the culture medium. The instrument’s photo detectors measured the level of fluorescence which corresponds to the amount of oxygen consumed by the organisms. In cases of positive cultures, susceptibility testing for the isolates was done by 5649-AFB susceptibility: SIREP panel by Radiometry.\r\nThe MDR-TB cases were treated with drugs per culture and sensitivity. The intensive phase was extended until the negativity of sputum smears and second-line drugs (per the sensitivity panel) in the continuation phase were given for at least 18 months after smear and culture conversion. Their overall course including adverse effect profile was meticulously monitored.\r\nEstimation of thyroid functions and serum uric acid levels was conducted in selected cases in whom the illness was suspected to be due to the effect of drugs. Those patients for whom prior estimation of these biochemical tests was not done were excluded from the study.\r\nStatistical Analysis\r\nThe clinical information and laboratory data were expressed and analyzed on a per patient basis. For comparisons between groups, paired and unpaired students t test (Microsoft Excel) were applied using a significance level of p = 0.05.\r\nRESULTS\r\nOverall there were 910 cases of PTB in the study population. Among these 529 (58.1%) were males and 381 (41.8%) females in the age group of 14 to 85 (mean + SD, 39 + 4.7) years. Patients were given appropriate treatment regimens of anti-tuberculosis therapy until 2006, and subsequently using the directly observed treatment short-course (DOTS) strategy with standardized regimens per the guidelines of the Revised National Tuberculosis Control Programme (Arova et al 2007). Out of this population, three patients who had mono-resistance to either H or R were excluded, and only 52 cases were enrolled as MDR-TB according to the prescribed definition. The number of males enrolled was relatively higher than that of females. Cough was the most common symptom. The most interesting radiographic finding was the presence of pneumothorax in 11% of the cases. Smear positive cases of PTB with pneumothorax had more chances of having MDR-TB than those without pneumothorax. After clinical cure, chest radiographs of 11 (21.1%) patients were normal, while in others fibrocavitatory lesions persisted. Overall, 21 (40.3%) cases had co-morbid illnesses (which included risk factors as well) as follows: 9 (17.3%) associated chronic obstructive pulmonary disease; 4 (7.6%) diabetes mellitus; 3 (5.7%) bronchial asthma; 2 (3.8%) chronic renal disease; 1 (1.9%) human immunodeficiency virus (HIV); one (1.9%) chronic liver disease; and one (1.9%) cystic bronchiectasis.\r\nThe study identified 19 (36.5%) cases with initial resistance and 33 who had interrupted anti-tuberculosis therapy (63.4%) with secondary resistance. Results of the drug-susceptibility testing (Table 2) showed highest resistance to four drugs (53%). Lowest resistance was to para-aminosalicylic acid and amikacin, although the sensitivity testing to these drugs was performed in only a few cases.\r\nOut of 52 patients of the study group, 12 (23%) patients achieved smear conversion within 2 months, 18 (34.6%) in 3 months, 9 (17.3%) in 4 months and 5 (9.6%) in 5 months. Eight patients with XDR-TB per the susceptibility testing did not convert to sputum negative by the end of six months. Per sputum culture, 3 (5.7%) cases became culture negative at the second month of treatment, whereas 20 (38.4%), 15 (28.8%), 4 (7.6%) and 2 (3.8%) patients achieved culture conversion at 3, 4, 5 and 6 months of treatment respectively.\r\nMinor adverse effects such as nausea, vomiting, taste disturbances, itching, and dyspepsia, which were effectively managed with symptomatic treatment, were observed in 36 (69.2%) patients. The most striking adverse effect was hypothyroidism observed in 11 (21.1%) cases during treatment with ethionamide; however, thyroid stimulating hormone levels came back to normal after discontinuation of the drug. One of these cases developed myxoedema coma, and died in the hospital. Seven (13.4%) patients developed arthralgias (with elevated serum uric acid levels of 8.3 and 9.1mg/dl respectively) attributed to pyrazinamide, which responded to non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs in most of the cases.\r\nAmong the study group 8 (15.3%) cases (previously published) had XDR-TB according to the prescribed definition (Bikram et al 2008) .Only one among these is still alive, smear and culture negative, and under regular follow-up. Overall among the 52 cases of MDR-TB, 37 patients (77.1%) were successfully cured, 11 (21.1%) cases died, and 4 (7.6%) patients who defaulted during the second year of treatment were lost during follow-up\r\nDISCUSSION\r\nThe emergence of MDR-TB is a global problem, which is threatening to destabilize the best efforts of TB control (WHO/HTM/TB/2006, Dhingra et al 2008, Behera 2007 &Nathanson 2004), and has been attributed to factors such as non-adherence to treatment, inappropriate treatment regimens, drug malabsorption, poor drug quality, and a poor health infrastructure for effective delivery of treatment (Behera 2007, Nathanson 2004 & Drobniewski 2002). To manage MDR-TB in poor economically settings, the WHO and its partners launched the DOTS Plus initiative to develop a global policy to provide technical assistance to DOTS programmes and to enable access to second-line drugs under rational use (WHO/HTM/TB/2006, (Nathanson 2004,Drobniewski 2002,Chaudhury and Thatte 2003). The present study demonstrated that 5.7% of TB patients had MDR-TB with initial and secondary resistance in 36.5% and 63.4% of those, respectively. These figures are almost consistent with the recently published reports from various other parts of India (Behera 2007, Mondal and Jain 2007). The tabulated figures quoted by Sharma and Mohan (Table 3) (Sharma and Mohan 2004) also demonstrate the magnitude of MDR-TB identified in previous studies. \r\nTB, respectively (Arova et al 2007 &Dhingra et al 2008) .\r\nSimilar to previous studies, the majority of our cases were males (Yew et al 2000, Telzak et al 1995). A statistically significant (p < 0.001) cure rate of 77% was seen in our patients, which is definitely more than that observed in the most recent (2008) published reports of Dhingra and co-workers (Dhingra et al 2008) from New Delhi, and, more consistent with the figures of 60% to 96% observed in New York, Turkey, South Korea, Peru and Hong Kong (Dhingra et al 2008, (Telzak et al 1995,Tahaoglu et al 2001,Lambregts et al 1998, Perri and Bonora 2004 & Mitnick et al 2003). Fortunately, most of the patients in our study were able to afford the cost of investigations and drug therapy, and a portion below the poverty line was provided financial assistance by various existing non-governmental organizations.\r\nGlobally, MDR-TB has been a particular concern among HIV-infected persons, whose rate of survival is substantially lower than that of those not infected (Arova et al 2007, Perri and Bonora 2004, (Pereira et al 2005, Sharma et al 2005 & Sungkanuparph et al 2007), and testing for HIV is recommended for all TB patients (WHO/HTM/TB/2006).Only one XDR-TB case in our study was co-infected with HIV and this patient died at home (Bikram et al 2008). The WHO recommended treatment for MDR-TB is the same for HIV-infected and non-HIV-infected patients except for the use of thioacetazone, which should not be used in HIV-infected cases, (WHO/HTM/TB/2006).\r\nWorldwide, the prevalence of MDR-TB and XDR-TB is one the rise. Per the published reports of 2008, the frightening emergence of XDR-TB has been reported globally in 45 countries, with the highest prevalence of 19% observed in Latvia (Raviglione 2008 ,Udwadia 2008 &WHO/HTM/TB/2008).Among our study group, eight patients (15.3%) were found to have XDR-TB, only one of whom was successfully saved while as the remaining seven (13.4%) died (Bikram et al 2008). The adverse effects of drug therapy in our patients were mostly minor (e.g., nausea, vomiting, hypersensitivity reactions), as observed in previous studies (Dhingra et al 2008, Behera 2007 & Nathanson et al 2004),and were managed with symptomatic treatment. Major side effects included hepatitis, psychosis, and ethionamide-related hypothyroidism, which were meticulously treated. More intense TB-control programmes should be instituted for rapid diagnosis and aggressive treatment for favorable outcomes. Treatment delivery to patients, which may be carried out using effective hospital- and community-based approaches, can be accomplished even in resource-poor settings. Besides DOTS-Plus programmes, aid for socioeconomic problems and the provision of emotional support to patients and their families are necessary for adherence to therapy and overall cure. Finally, future studies involving large samples are needed to learn more about the resistance pattern and outcome of both MDR-TB and XDR-TB.\r\n','Phageshwar*, Imtiyaz Wani** and Jagdish Chander* (2013)Incidence of Multidrug-Resistant (MDR) and Extensively drug Resistant (XDR) Tuberculosis among Different age Groups in Tertiary Care Hospitals of Chandigarh, India.Biological Forum – An International Journal 5(1): 21-26 .'),(4486,'121','Studies on Physico-Chemical Characteristics, Fish and Fishery Resource Potential and Diversity of Macrophytes of Moirang River, Manipur','S. Suma, R.K. Rajeshwari and M. Shanta Kumar','4 DR RAJESHWARI.pdf','',1,'Moirang river is one of the most important river which drains into the Loktak lake. Physico-chemical parameters like temperature, pH, DO, CO2, BOD, COD, hardness, chlorides, calcium, sodium, potassium, nitrates and phosphates were analysed during January 2010 to December 2010 and indicates high value of BOD and COD, nitrates and phosphate in downstream area of the Moirang river. Fishery resource potential of this river includes 42 fish species under 30 genera, 15 families and 6 orders. Some of the fish species are having high fishery potential. There are 20 species, 16 genera representing 10 families of macrophytes in the river.','Physico-chemical parameter, Moirang river, upstream, downstream, biodiversity. ','Moirang river is one of the most important river which drains into the Loktak lake. Physico-chemical parameters like temperature, pH, DO, CO2, BOD, COD, hardness, chlorides, calcium, sodium, potassium, nitrates and phosphates were analysed during January 2010 to December 2010 and indicates high value of BOD and COD, nitrates and phosphate in downstream area of the Moirang river. Fishery resource potential of this river includes 42 fish species under 30 genera, 15 families and 6 orders. Some of the fish species are having high fishery potential. There are 20 species, 16 genera representing 10 families of macrophytes in the river.','Aquatic ecosystems are affected by several anthropogenic activities that significantly deplete the biodiversity. In the future, the loss of biodiversity and its effects are predicted to be greater for aquatic ecosystems than terrestrial ecosystem (Sala et al., 2000). Stream water run-off and discharge of sewage into rivers are two common ways that various nutrients enter the aquatic ecosystems resulting in the pollution of those ecosystem (Sudhira and Kumar, 2000; Adeyemo, 2003). Rivers are the most important freshwater resource for human being. Assessments of river water quality have been done by various workers in India (Sharma and Agrawal, 1999; Baruah and Baruah, 2003; Kumar, 2003; Kulshrestha and Sharma, 2006). In Manipur there are numerous rivers and streams which are directly or indirectly feeding the important lakes of the state and many of them enhancing the process of eutrophication and pollution in the lake ecosystem as they discharge huge amounts of nutrients and polluted water (Tombi Singh and Shyamananda Singh, 1994). However, there are few reports on the status of riverine ecosystem of the state (Kosygin and Dhamendra, 2005; Rajeshwari Devi, et al., 2005; Dhamendra and Kosygin, 2005; Kosygin et al., 2009).\r\n Moirang river is one of the important river which discharge into the Loktak lake. It arises from the Thanging hill and passes through a long distance and also passing through Moirang town, then falls into the Loktak lake. While passing through agricultural fields and Moirang town it losses its purity by collecting all the agricultural waste from the surrounding agricultural field, domestic sewages and solid waste from Moirang town. In the present study an attempt has been made to evaluate the water quality, fish and fishery resource potential and macrophyte diversity in Moirang river.\r\nMATERIAL AND METHODS\r\n Surface water samples were collected on monthly basis during the study period from January 2010 to December 2010. For each month five replicates of water sample were collected from two sampling station, upstream and downstream. Physico-chemical analysis were analysed following the standard method of APHA et al., 1989, Trivedi and Goyal, 1986. The average of the five sample was taken for each parameters studied was considered as one reading. The water temperature, pH, DO and free CO2 were determined in the field and other parameter were analysed in the laboratory within 48 hrs. Water temperature was measured using mercury thermometer and pH by digital pH meter. DO was determined by Winker’s method. Free CO2, Chloride, Calcium and Magnesium were determined by titration method. Sodium and Potassium were estimated by Flam Photometer. Nitrate was obtained calorimetrically. Inorganic Phosphorous was calculated calorimetrically. Fishes were identified following Jayaram (1981), Talwal and Jhingran (1991) and Vishwanath (2002). Aquatic macrophytes were identified following Adoni et al., (1985) and Mishra (1968).\r\nThe value of Physico- Chemical parameters of water is presented in the Table 1 for upstream and Table 2 for downstream. The graphic presentation is presented in fig 1. In the downstream, the temperature varies from 18.5 to 26 and the highest value is observed during the month of July. Likewise, the highest temperature of the upstream is also observed during the month of July. In downstream, the value of transparency varies from 0.108m to 0.152m whereas in upstream it varies from 0.150m to 0.169m. The pH of the upstream and downstream ranges between 6.8 to 7.5 which indicates the neutral condition of the water. Free CO2 is highest during the month of August with a value of 7.4mg/L in downstream whereas in upstream it is highest during the month of July with a value of 17.25 mg/L. The high value is due to the stagnation of water in the streams. The DO value ranges from 1.8 mg/L to 3mg/L in downstream whereas in the upstream it ranges from 4.2 mg/L to 7 mg/L. The higher value of DO in the upstream is due to minimum interference of the water body by the human activities and high current. The lower DO in the downstream implies that the river were more polluted at downstream. When compared BOD value in both upstream and downstream, it was observed that BOD value is higher in the downstream than in the upstream. The highest BOD value is observed during the month of June with a value varies from 9 mg/L to 12 mg/L with high value observed during the month of December. In upstream, it lies between 8 mg/L to 11.61 mg/L. The value of hardness is maximum during the month of January and minimum during the month of September in downstream. In upstream, the value of hardness lies between 68 mg/L to 85 mg/L with maximum in October and minimum in May. The maximum limit of total hardness for drinking water is 300mg/L (WHO, 1984). The hardness of river lies within the prescribed standard. The value of chloride lies between 18 mg/L to 24.6mg/L in downstream whereas in upstream it lies between 20mg/L to 25mg/L. The maximum limit for chloride for drinking water is 250mg/L (USEPA-standard). The value of chloride of the river water lies within the limit.\r\nThe maximum value of calcium in the downstream is 10.5 mg/L and in the upstream is 18.61mg/L. The higher value of calcium is due to the high calcium content discharged into the water bodies. The value of sodium is highest during the month of August with a value of 5.5 mg/L and minimum with a value of 2.1 mg/L during the month of November in the downstream\r\nIn upstream the value of sodium is highest during the month of October with 22.10 mg/L and minimum during the month of July with a value of 18 mg/L. The value of potassium is higher in the upstream than in the downstream. In downstream, the value of nitrate ranges from 0.110mg/L to 0.391 mg/L whereas in upstream it lies between 0.075 mg/L to 0.120 mg/L. The high concentration was probably partially a result of runoff, from agricultural field including fertilizers. High nitrate level are not good for aquatic life (Johnson et al., 2000). The phosphate contents lies between the value of 0.073 mg/L to 0.103 mg/L in the downstream and in upstream, it lies between the value of 0.045 mg/L to 0.063mg/L. According to Raste et al.,(1989), increase in Nitrogen and phosphorous one or other of which tends to limit productivity will lead to eutrophication. Eutrophication could also lead to unpleasant taste and odour of the water when the algae die and decompose thus deteriorating the water quality and heavy infestation of weeds.\r\n An assessment of the Fish and Fishery resource potential of Moirang river is shown in the Table 3. During the investigation the diversity of the fishes includes 42 species under 30 genera, 15 families and 6 orders. Moirang river shows high biodiversity of fishes. Some of the fishes are having high fishery potentials as shown in the table. \r\n The macrophytes of Moirang river includes 20 species under 16 genera representing 10 families is shown in the Table 4. The macrophytes are more abundant in the downstream than the upstream.\r\n From the above investigation and discussion, it is found that the downstream of Moirang river is polluted as it has high value of CO2, Nitrate, Phosphate and high BOD. Most of the flora and fauna were widely distributed forms which can thrive well in river water. Proper conservation measures are needed in the Moirang river for future sustenance. \r\n','S. Suma, R.K. Rajeshwari and M. Shanta Kumar (2013). Studies on Physico-Chemical Characteristics, Fish and Fishery Resource Potential and Diversity of Macrophytes of Moirang River, Manipur. Biological Forum – An International Journal 5(1): 27-32. '),(4487,'121','Simultaneous Quantitative Determination of Terbutaline and Theophylline from Drug Product by RP-HPLC Method ','Ravi Gowda, Padmakar A. Sathe and Sudesh Bhure','5 RAVI GOWDA 2.pdf','',1,'An isocratic reversed-phase HPLC method with VWD detector has been developed for the simultaneous assay evaluation of Terbutaline and Theophylline in bulk drug. The analysis was performed using Zorbax SB CN (10cm X 4.6 mm i.d. and 1.8 µm) as a stationary phase with column oven temperature 40°c and UV detection at 220nm. The separation was achieved using isocratic program of buffer (Buffer used was of 0.01% Ammonium acetate in water), Acetonitrile and Methanol in the ration (65:10:25). The method was optimized based on the peak shapes and resolution of Terbutaline and Theophylline. The method was validated as per International Conference of Harmonization (ICH) guidelines in terms of linearity, precision, accuracy, specificity, robustness and solution stability. The sample concentration were injected was 25 µg/ml and 200 µg/ml for Terbutaline and Theophylline respectively. The method is linear within the range of 100 to 300 µg/ml for Theophylline and 12.50 to 37.50 µg/ml for Terbutaline.','Terbutaline; Theophylline, RP-HPLC.','The proposed LC method is selective for the Simultaneous quantitative determination of Terbutaline and Theophylline from tablet. Hence this method is useful for the detection Terbutaline and Theophylline in routine analysis. ','Terbutaline is a relatively selective beta2-adrenergic bronchodilator that has little or no effect on alpha-adrenergic receptors. The drug has exerts a preferential effect on beta2-adrenergic receptors but stimulates beta-adrenergic receptors less selectively. Terbutaline appears to have a greater stimulating effect on beta-receptors of the bronchial, vascular, and uterine smooth muscles (beta2 receptors) than on the beta-receptors of the heart (beta1 receptors). This drug relaxes smooth muscle and inhibits uterine contractions, but may also cause some cardiostimulatory effects and CNS stimulation. Terbutaline [1] (trade names Brethine, Bricanyl, or Brethaire) is a β2-adrenergic receptor agonist, used as a fast-acting bronchodilator (often used as a short-term asthma treatment) and as a tocolytic to delay premature labour. It is A white or almost white, crystalline powder freely Soluble in water, slightly soluble in ethanol (96%). The pharmacologic effects of terbutaline are at least in part attributable to stimulation through beta-adrenergic receptors of intracellular adenyl cyclase, the enzyme that catalyzes the conversion of adenosine triphosphate (ATP) to cyclic- 3\',5\'- adenosine monophosphate (c-AMP). Increased c-AMP levels are associated with relaxation of bronchial smooth muscle and inhibition of release of mediators of immediate hypersensitivity from cells, especially from mast cells. Theophylline, a xanthine derivative chemically similar to caffeine and theobromine, is used to treat asthma and bronchospasm. Theophylline [2] has two distinct actions in the airways of patients with reversible (asthmatic) obstruction; smooth muscle relaxation (i.e., bronchodilation) and suppression of the response of the airways to stimuli (i.e., non-bronchodilator prophylactic effects). Theophylline is structurally classified as a methylxanthine. It occurs as a white, odorless, crystalline powder with a bitter taste. Slightly soluble in water, sparingly soluble in ethanol (96%). It dissolves in solutions of alkali hydroxides, in ammonia and in mineral acids. Theophylline relaxes the smooth muscle of the bronchial airways [3] and pulmonary blood vessels [4] and reduces airway responsiveness to histamine, methacholine, adenosine, and allergen. Theophylline competitively inhibits type III and type IV phosphodiesterase (PDE) [5], the enzyme responsible for breaking down cyclic AMP in smooth muscle cells [6], possibly resulting in bronchodilation. Theophylline also binds to the adenosine A2B receptor and blocks adenosine mediated bronchoconstriction.\r\nTablet is also used as a bronchodilator [7]. It helps open up the airways in your lungs to make it easier to breathe. This medicine is used to treat the symptoms of asthma, bronchitis, and emphysema. It is available for oral administration as tablets containing 2.5 mg of Terbutaline sulphate and 100 mg of Theophylline anhydrous. \r\nEach tablet contains the following inactive ingredients: Starch, Magnesium Stearate, Micro crystalline Cellulose [8], Lactose, Silicon dioxide colloidal [9], Talc and Sodium starch glycolate.\r\n \r\nMATERIAL AND METHODS\r\nA. Drug and reagents\r\nPure Standard Used Theophylline and Terbutaline Sulphate were used. Tablets with (100mg Theophylline and 2.5 mg Terbutaline Sulphate) were procured from local market. HPLC grade Acetonitrile and Methanol of Qualigens (99.0 %), AR grade Ammonium acetate of Merck were used throughout the quantitative determination. Distilled water was obtained from MILLI Q water purifying system (Millipore, U.S.A). All solvents were filtered through 0.5µ (Millipore) membrane and degassed in ultrasonic bath. \r\n \r\nB. Apparatus and equipment\r\nLC was carried out on Jasco, PU 980 HPLC isocratic pump , AS - 2057 sampler HPLC system with UV- Visible detector (UV-970). The output signal was monitored and processed using Borwin chromatography software 1.21. In all the studies, separations were achieved on a Zorbax SB CN(10cm X 4.6 mm i.d. and 1.8 µm) procured from LCGC (Banglore, INDIA). Other small equipment were PCI sonicator (22L500/CC/DTC made in), precision analytical balance (Mettler Toledo, Schwerzenbach, Switzerland).\r\n\r\nC. Chromatographic conditions\r\nThe separation was achieved using Zorbax SB CN (10cm X 4.6 mm i.d. and 1.8 µm) and isocratic program of buffer (Buffer used was of 0.01% Ammonium acetate in water), Acetonitrile and Methanol in the ration (65:10:25). The flow rate was set at 1.0 ml/min and column was maintained at 40oC. The injection volume was set 5µl and detector was set at a wavelength of 220 nm. \r\nD. Preparation of Mobile Phase\r\n• Buffer (0.01 % Ammonium acetate): Weigh 100 mg ammonium acetate in 1000 ml volumetric flask. Add 500 ml of distilled water, sonicate to dissolve and make the volume with distilled water up to the mark. \r\n• Mobile Phase: Prepare a filtered and degassed mixture of Buffer, Acetonitrile and methanol in the ratio of (65:10:25) v/v\r\n• Preparation of Diluent : The diluent was prepared by mixing distilled water and methanol in the ratio of (50:50) v/v \r\n\r\nE. Preparation of standard solution for method Validation\r\nStandard Solution of Theophylline (200.0µg/ml) and Terbutaline Sulphate (25.0 µg/ml):\r\n• Terbutaline Sulphate Stock solution (Solution A):\r\n25 mg of Terbutaline Sulphate was weighed and transferred in 50 mL volumetric flask to it 20 ml of the diluent was added and the solution was sonicated for 5 mins. Finally it was diluted up to the mark with the diluent.\r\n• Standard Preparation (Solution B):\r\n20.0 mg of Theophylline was weighed and transferred in 100 mL volumetric flask containing 5 ml of solution A. To it 60.0 ml of diluent was added and the solution was sonicated for 5 mins. Finally it was diluted up to the mark with diluent.\r\n\r\nF. Preparation of sample solution for method Validation:\r\nAverage weight of a tablet: 0.336 gm (Determined on 20 tablets)\r\nSample Stock Solution: \r\nWeigh and crush 20 tablets. Weigh accurately about 0.336 gm of tablet powder equivalent to average weight of a single tablet (equivalent to 2.5 mg of Terbutaline Sulphate and 100 mg of Theophylline) and transfer into 100 mL volumetric flask. Add about 50 ml of diluent, sonicate for 20 mins at an ambient temperature with intermittent swirling, cool and dilute upto the mark with diluent, mix well. \r\nFor Terbutaline content (25.0µg/mL): Filter sample stock solution through 0.45µ syringe filter and inject the same.\r\nFor Theophylline content (200.0µg/mL): Pipette out 5.0 ml from sample stock solution transfer to 25 ml volumetric flask. Dilute upto the mark with diluent, mix well. Filter through 0.45 µ syringe filter and inject. \r\n \r\n\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\n Gowda, Sathe and Bhure 35 \r\n\r\n \r\nMETHOD DEVELOPMENT AND COLUMN SELECTION \r\nChemical structure of Terbutaline Sulphate and Theophylline are shown in (Fig.1 and 2). Reverse phase chromatography columns are efficient, stable and reproducible. Due to their high reproducibility and stability coupled with wide versatility, reverse phase chromatographic separations have become preferred mode of separation by HPLC. Aqueous eluents having high optical transparency as well as low flammability and toxicity can be used to accomplish most of the separation goals. Selectivity is most easily achieved in reverse phase chromatography [10] by the variation of the bonded groups [dimethyl silane (C2), butyl silane (C4), octyl silane (C8), octadecyl silane (C18), phenyl, cyanopropyl, nitro, amino etc]. Selectivity may be further enhanced by a variety of modifications possible in the aqueous mobile phases such as the variation in pH, the addition of buffers.and.the.organic.modifiers. A reverse phase mode of separation was employed taking into account the polar nature of Terbutaline and Theophylline, its solubility in water and methanol. Hence a reverse phase mode of separation was chosen for HPLC.determination. \r\nThe column is selected depending on the nature of the solute and the information about the sample. The number of theoretical plates (N) is an important characteristic of a column. N- Defines the ability of the column to produce sharp, narrow peaks for achieving good resolution. N is dependent on specific experimental factors. In the method development, peak shape is equally important. Columns that provide symmetrical peaks are always preferred. Agilent Zorbax SB CN column with dimensions of 100mm X 4.6 mm i.d. and 1.8 µm particle size was employed as the stationary phase as it gave desired performance. \r\nAcetonitrile and Methanol are the most popular solvents in HPLC. Methanol and Acetonitrile are water miscible, have low viscosity, low surface tension and are readily available in pure form, hence they are used as components of the mobile phase. With water and methanol in the ratio (50:50) v/v the Rt of Theophylline was around 7.0 min retention time and the Rt of Terbutaline peak was around 8.0 min. Both the peaks merged with each other and hence peak could not be resolved. The best resolution was obtained with mobile phase with the composition 0.01 % Ammonium acetate, Acetonitrile and Methanol in the ratio of (65:10:25).\r\nIn the present research work, simultaneous determination of Terbutaline and Theophylline was performed using a UV Visible detector as both Terbutaline and Theophylline have absorbance in UV region as shown in Fig 3. it was concluded that the simultaneous quantification of Terbutaline and Theophylline could be performed at 220 nm. \r\n \r\n\r\nRESULTS AND DISCUSSION\r\nA. Method Validation [11] \r\nSpecificity. Blank (Diluent) & Placebo (Excipients) injected into the chromatograph to check the interference at the retention time corresponding to the peak of Theophylline and Terbutaline. Individual identification solution of Theophylline and Terbutaline injected to identify the peaks. There were no interfering peaks in the chromatogram of the Blank (Diluent) & Placebo (Excipients) at the retention time corresponding to the peak of Theophylline and Terbutaline. \r\nLinearity. Five Solutions containing concentrations of Theophylline and Terbutaline Sulphate in the range of 50% to 150% of the working level (i.e. 100 µg/mL to 300 µg/mL of Theophylline and 12.5 µg/mL to 37.5 µg/mL of Terbutaline Sulphate) were injected into the chromatograph. The peak area responses were found to be linear with respect to the concentration. The regression coefficient (r2), the %Y-intercept, % RSD of the peak area response, % RSD of retention time of each level, and % RSD of responses factor were within the acceptance range. The mean responses recorded for each analyte were plotted against concentration. The correlation coefficient for Theophylline and Terbutaline Sulphate was found to be 1.00 and 1.00 respectively, which indicates good linearity. (Fig. 6 for Theophylline and Fig. 7 for Terbutaline Sulphate).\r\nSystem and method precision. Precision study was continued after specificity and system suitability study. The sample solution was prepared six times. The content of Theophylline and Terbutaline Sulphate (%mg/tab) for each preparation was determined. The % RSD for the content of Theophylline and Terbutaline Sulphate of all six samples was observed to be within limit. The variation in the results for the two analytes were expressed in terms of % RSD. The values calculated were found to be below 2.0% RSD for analytes, indicating satisfactory method precision. A typical chromatogram for Theophylline and Terbutaline standard solution and sample solution is shown in Fig. 4 and Fig. 5. The results are shown in Table 3 and Table 4. \r\nStability in analytical solution\r\nThe content of Terbutaline Sulphate & Theophylline was determined initially and then at the predetermined time interval of 4, 8, 12, 16, 20 and 24 hrs. The % relative difference for the content of Terbutaline Sulphate & Theophylline between initial value and predetermined time interval was calculated and found to be within acceptance criteria. Standard solution was also injected initially and then at the predetermined time interval of 4, 8, \r\n\r\n12, 16, 20 and 24 hrs. The system suitability parameters such as tailing factor, theoretical plates, % RSD for retention time and peak area response of Terbutaline & Theophylline in Standard was determined and was found to be within acceptance criteria. No extraneous peaks were observed in the chromatogram of sample and standard till 24hrs interval. This shows that the standard and sample is stable upto 24 hrs. The results are shown in Table 5.\r\nRobustness. Robustness was carried out by changing,\r\nExp I - The column oven temp by 40°C to 38°C. \r\nExp II - The column oven temp by 40°C to 42°C. \r\nExp III - The flow rate of mobile phase from 1.0 ml to 0.9 ml.\r\nExp IV - The flow rate of mobile phase from 1.0 ml to 1.1 ml.\r\nSpecificity, System suitability and the Precision of Samples were performed. Blank (diluent) & Placebo (Excipients) was injected into the chromatograph to check the interference at the retention time corresponding to peak of Theophylline and Terbutaline. There was no interfering peak in the chromatogram of the Blank (diluent) & Placebo at the retention time corresponding to the peak of Theophylline and Terbutaline. The results are shown in Table 6 and Table 7.\r\n','Ravi Gowda, Padmakar A. Sathe and Sudesh Bhure (2013). Simultaneous Quantitative Determination of Terbutaline and Theophylline from Drug Product by RP-HPLC Method.Biological Forum – An International Journal 5(1): 33-41. '),(4488,'121','Species and Speciation','Krishna Kumar Verma*, Dr. Pierre Jolivet** and Dr. Mrs. Rashmi Saxena***','6 KK VERMA.pdf','',1,'Speciation refers to genetic divergence among related populations, leading to new species. The divergence is a continuous phenomenon, and the level, chosen by a taxonomist in the continuum, is a new species. The generally accepted species concept is the Biological Species Concept (BSC), which takes reproductive isolation from related forms a necessary feature of a species. During speciation reproductive isolation, among sister lineages, gradually develops. Hence the need to assess the extent of the isolation makes delimiting a species a difficult problem. Generally the extent of phenotypic deviation along a lineage is taken to assess reproductive isolation. This obviously involves some arbitrariness. To reduce the level of the arbitrariness various methods have been suggested, viz. a quantitative approach, molecular genetic criteria, phylogenetic approach etc. But, in spite of these different approaches, some arbitrariness may remain in species delimitation. Several recent authors have pleaded for an integrative approach (i.e. including phenotypic approach, phylogeny, molecular sequence study etc.) in discovery and description of new species to come closest to the species criteria set by BSC.','Reproductive isolation; Species concepts; Species delimitation; Sexual Selection; Sympatric speciation.','Speciation refers to genetic divergence among related populations, leading to new species. The divergence is a continuous phenomenon, and the level, chosen by a taxonomist in the continuum, is a new species. The generally accepted species concept is the Biological Species Concept (BSC), which takes reproductive isolation from related forms a necessary feature of a species. During speciation reproductive isolation, among sister lineages, gradually develops. Hence the need to assess the extent of the isolation makes delimiting a species a difficult problem. Generally the extent of phenotypic deviation along a lineage is taken to assess reproductive isolation. This obviously involves some arbitrariness. To reduce the level of the arbitrariness various methods have been suggested, viz. a quantitative approach, molecular genetic criteria, phylogenetic approach etc. But, in spite of these different approaches, some arbitrariness may remain in species delimitation. Several recent authors have pleaded for an integrative approach (i.e. including phenotypic approach, phylogeny, molecular sequence study etc.) in discovery and description of new species to come closest to the species criteria set by BSC.','A number of papers on this topic have appeared in the recent past. Still some aspects of this subject need to be emphasized and elucidated; hence this review, based mostly on recent publications.\r\n ‘Species’ is a very significant taxon. It has been described as an evolutionary lineage “with separate and unitary role” (Simpson, 1965). A separate and unitary role should involve reproductive isolation between the lineage in question and related lineages, including sister lineages. But then how is it that interspecific hybridizations are known to occur? Why sometimes synonymization of some described species is done? Why are there cases of a species turning out to be a ‘species cluster’? Efforts have been made in this review to emphasize and elucidate such aspects of the species level taxonomy as would answer and satisfy such questions. \r\nSpecies concepts\r\nThe various species concepts, as pointed out by Tobias et al., (2010) are: \r\n (i) The biological species concept (BSC),\r\n (ii) The phylogenetic species concept (PSC), and\r\n (iii) The monophyletic species concept (MSC).\r\nAmong these species concepts the most favoured by taxonomists is BSC (Gonzalez-Forero, 2009; Tobias et al., loc. cit.).\r\nAccording to the Biological Species Concept of Dobzhansky (1937) and Mayr (1942), “A species is a group of interbreeding natural populations that is reproductively isolated from such other groups” (Mayr & Ashlock, 1991). As Gonzalez-Forero (loc. cit.) has stated, BSC “continues to play a central role..… specially when studying the origin of species….”. Tobias et al., (loc. cit.) say, “BSC … has some advantages as a framework for a global taxonomic treatment”, and also, “(the concept) applies to a relatively fixed and broadly intuitive limit to species diversity”.\r\nHausdorf (2011) has analytically examined the various species concepts, and finds the genic concept of Wu (2001) most acceptable. This concept, as adopted by Hausdorf (loc. cit.) may be stated this way: A species is a differentiated and further differentiating group of interbreeding populations, which is able to maintain its differentiation identity despite limited gene flow between itself and similar other populations. Obviously it is a modified version of BSC, modified in view of the ‘semipermeable’ nature of the reproductive isolation between similar species.\r\n \r\n Verma, Jolivet and Saxena 43\r\n \r\nSpeciation and delimiting species\r\nIt is important to distinguish between speciation and species. While speciation is a continuous genetic divergence among and along sister lineages, a species is a taxon made out in the continuum of speciation. As per BSC, a species is reproductively isolated from related species. But during progress of speciation reproductive isolation very commonly gradually develops (Verma, 2006; Hendry, 2009; Gonzalez-Forero, 2009) (Fig. 1). Almost no taxonomist, before recording a new species, performs breeding experiments to ascertain reproductive isolation from related forms. Considerable phenotypic divergence is generally taken as an indicator \r\n\r\n\r\nof reproductive isolation. As Winker (2009) has pointed out, species level taxonomy is < a categorical tool that results in discrete “bins” along a continuum of differentiation>. At the level, chosen in the continuum, for describing a new species by the taxonomist, reproductive isolation from sister lineages may not have fully developed (Fig. 1). That is why we often come across cases of interspecific hybridization. Gibbons (2011) has cited Jean-Jacques Hublin saying, “There are about 330 closely related species of mammals that interbreed, and at least a third of them can produce fertile hybrids.”.\r\nIt is obvious that the reproductive isolation part of BSC makes practical application of the concept in species level taxonomy, difficult. Gonzalez-Forero (2009) has suggested relaxation of this part of BSC. He says that this “non-discreteness” in the reproductive isolation part of BSC will make the concept applicable to the cases of “ring species”, and in addition to cases of interspecific genetic introgression.\r\n On relaxing the reproductive isolation component of BSC, the concept should read thus <A species is a group of interbreeding natural populations that is reproductively fully or partially isolated from other such other groups, with indications of further divergence and further development of reproductive isolation>. A shortcoming of this changed version of BSC is that the “indications” part may be misread by the working taxonomist. Hart (2010) has emphasized the importance of population studies in species level taxonomy. He has recommended studying quantitatively metapopulation differences in continuous variables, repeated at intervals. Such a study may help in making out directions in which the metapopulations are diverging. Such population studies are likely to provide firmer ‘indications’, the use of which is suggested in the modified version of BSC.\r\nThe foregoing account makes it clear that in delimiting and describing a new species on basis of BSC some arbitrariness is involved. This situation has been pointed out by Simpson (1965) and several other author. \r\n Verma, Jolivet and Saxena 44\r\n \r\n\r\nTo make the extent of arbitrariness less in species level taxonomic practice quantitative and some other methods of species delimitation have been suggested.\r\n1. Quantitative approach to species delimitation \r\nOne quantitative method for species delimitation has been suggested by Mayr (1969). As per this method, if we want to decide whether two similar populations belong to the same species, extent of allomorphy between them should be worked out by recording the ranges of variation in a morphological feature in the two populations, and then using the following formula to calculate the coefficient of difference\r\nCD = Sda + Sdb\r\n\r\nwhere CD = Coefficient of difference\r\n Ma and Mb = Mean of the variation in the populations a and b.\r\n Sda and Sdb = Standard deviation of the variation ranges in the populations a and b.\r\n \r\nIf between the two ranges of variation there is 75% linear overlap, the value of CD will work out to be 1.28. In such a case, if the two ranges are plotted as frequency curves, the number of individuals in the nonoverlap will be about 90%. Hence if the value of CD is found to be 1.28 or a little more, the two populations may be regarded as two subspecies of the same species. But, if it works out to be more than 1.75, the two populations may be taken as two distinct species. Some role of arbitrariness in this method, involving a statistical procedure, is obvious. Moreover, in the second edition of their book (Mayr & Ashlock, 1991), Mayr and his coauthor say that this statistical treatment may be helpful only along with other considerations, such as degree of spatial isolation between the two populations, absence of clinal variation, discordant variation of different characters etc..\r\n Tobias et al., (2010), in their significant paper, have suggested the following two steps to reduce the level of arbitrariness, when attempting making out a new species: \r\n(a) to determine quantitatively divergence in several phenotypic traits (i.e. a polythetic approach) among a sample of well established sympatric species, and next \r\n\r\nb) to study the corresponding traits quantitatively in two allopatric/parapatric populations, which are suspected to represent new species. If among the allopatric/parapatric populations, under study, the divergence is equal to or more than the threshold value of divergence in the sympatric species, they may be assigned the status of new species, and if not, they may be taken as subspecies.\r\n Tobias et al., (loc. cit.) have suggested use of Cohen’s d statistics for working out the degree of divergence in the chosen traits in a population. However, this method is rather complex. Perhaps it would be simpler to work out the coefficient of differences (CD) using Mayr’s formula (vide supra) for such chosen traits, both for the sympatric populations of related but distinct species, as well as for allopatric/parapatric populations, the species status of which is to be determined. If the mean (x) of the CDs of the different chosen traits in the allopatric/parapatric populations comes close to / is equal to /exceeds the x of the CDs of the corresponding traits in the sympatric populations, the former populations may be taken and described as new species. \r\n 2. Genetic approach to species delimitation and search of a speciation gene\r\nColeman (2008) has suggested a molecular approach for deciding whether two populations are different species. He says, “….analyses of one locus, the second Internal Transcribed Spacer (ITS2) of the nuclear ribosomal gene cistron has suggested a high degree of predictability across eukaryotes”. It is further pointed out, “As ITS2 differences between potential mates increase, sexual compatibility and zygote productivity decrease”. This author recommends that species, identified through differences in morphological features, may be confirmed by comparing ITS2 differences.\r\nHausdorf and Hennig (2010) have suggested a molecular method for species delimitation. Dominant and codominant markers in the genome have been taken as “fields of recombination”; hence individuals, agreeing in these markers may be taken as belonging to the same species. But, while pleading for objectivity of this approach, they acknowledge that “no fully objective solution” for species delimitation is yet available. These authors agree with the opinion of Sites and Marshall (2004) that eclectic or polythetic approach in species delimitation is needed, “because all methods for species delimitation will on occasion fail”.\r\nSeveral authors have recommended a multilocus approach in genetic delimitation of species, and not to base the delimitation on a single genetic marker (Legrand et. al., 2011; Gasiz et al., 2011; Morris-Pocock et al., 2011).\r\n Search of a speciation gene has long been pursued (Nosil & Schluter, 2011). By a speciation gene is meant any gene contributing to evolution of reproductive isolation, as required by BSC. Nosil & Schluter (loc. cit.) have reviewed publications suggesting discovery of a speciation gene, and have inferred that almost none fulfils the criteria for such a gene. But Hoso et al., (2010) present an instance, which comes close to the speciation gene concept. They point out that right and left torsion in snails is influenced by a single locus or gene. They have studied the case of Satsuma snails. Two factors seem to contribute to speciation divergence among populations of this snail; one : that dextral and sinistral individuals find mating with the opposite chirality difficult, as a result sinistrals choose sinistrals for copulation and dextrals prefer dextrals; and two: the snake Pareas iwasaki prefers predation on dextrals, and, thus presence of this predator favours survival of sinistrals.\r\nBiogeography of this snail reveals that speciation, favouring sinistrals , has been accelerated in areas, in which this snake predator occurs. In this instance the single gene, influencing the direction of coiling/torsion, may behave as a speciation gene. \r\nBut in a genetic approach to species delimitation one has to study the populations, in question, genetically, including Molecular Genetics, and the whole process will be too long, and with no assurance of being infallible. \r\n3. Phylogenetic approach to species delimitation\r\nThe fast developing phylogenetic approach to make out species is based on the cladistic analysis of Hennig (1966). In this process an evolutionary or phylogenetic tree is made out on basis of synapomorphies (= derived shared characters). According to Hennig (loc. cit.) species result from divergence of two sister lineages. As per this author a species is terminated and breaks into two new species at the point of the split, at which point two new species come into being. , i.e. “A species begins at a branching point and ends at the next branching point in a cladogram” (as cited by Mayr & Ashlock, 1991).\r\nBut this view of Hennig (loc. cit.) is unacceptable, as it is well realized now that that reproductive isolation only gradually develops after a split (Fig. 1).\r\n \r\nA more acceptable view has been stated by Kergoat et al., (2011). They opine that a new species is made out at a certain branch length after a split in a phylogenetic tree. The required branch length may be decided by coming to a threshold value. Presumably the threshold value may be worked out by location of some well established species in the phylogenetic tree or dendrogram, which has been based on morphological or molecular data or both. \r\n4. An integrative approach to species delimitation\r\nA number of recent authors have pleaded in favour of an integrative approach in making out a species, i.e. use of both traditional morphological/phenotypic approach as well as molecular phylogeny (Kergoat et al., 2011; Barrett & Freudenstein, 2011; Lopardo et al, 2011; Kenfeck, 2011; Ahyong et al., 2010; Winker, 2009). \r\nIn an integrative approach use of ecological, biogeographical, population level, and behavioural data has also been suggested (Benz & Robbins, 2011; Hawlitschek et al., 2011; Barrett and Freudenstein, 2011; Hart, 2010).\r\nSPECIATION THROUGH SEXUAL SELECTION\r\nWenninger and Averill (2006) have categorized different modes of sexual selection. A factor, obviously operative in sexual selection, is sexual communication to invite the opposite sex for mating. The sexual communication may be chemical, visual, or acoustic. \r\nAn illustrative account is in the work of Ryan et al., (2010). They have studied mating calls in the tungara frogs (Physalaemus pustulosus). In this species males emit a sound signal as a mating call. The sound may be a simple whine or whine ornamented with some other sound (whine chucks). Through experiments, using recorded conspecific, heterospecific, predator produced, and human made sounds, the authors have inferred that \r\nfemales of the species show a strong preference for ornamented whines or whine chucks to simple whine, and that males are evolving towards production of ornamented whines as their mating calls.\r\nShaw et al., (2011) point out that sexual communication within a species is uniform in nature and quality due to stabilizing effect of selection. Any deviation from the normal communication would fail to attract the opposite sex; hence it gets negatively selected. But then how does divergence in the nature of communication occur? The authors (Shaw et al., loc. cit.) opine that some mutations may pleiotropically affect the mating signal and also the preference of response by the other sex, and thus divergence, which may lead to speciation, may result.\r\nKraaijeveld et al., (2011) say that quite long it has been believed that sexual selection has been an important factor in speciation and origin of new species, thus producing species richness among different groups of animals. To test this hypothesis these authors have extensively reviewed the published relevant data, and have analyzed the data phylogenetically and statistically. \r\n\r\nThey have inferred:\r\n (i) that there is a small but significantly positive support for the hypothesis.\r\n (ii) that, when sexual selection affects also ecological adaptation, it not only leads to origin of new species, but also to “maintenance of (the) species”.\r\n (iii) that the frequency of correlation between species origin and sexual selection varies in different taxa:\r\n (a) among available data for birds in 38 studies 24 show positive correlation,\r\n (b) among available data for insects in 6 studies in 4 the hypothesis was found supported,\r\n (c) among 14 studies in mammals none was found supportive.\r\nSYMPATRIC SPECIATION \r\nIt has been traditionally believed that speciation in most cases has occurred in allopatry. But some recent studies have shown that it occurs in sympatry too, and speciation in sympatry is more common than believed earlier. On this mode of speciation there is an earlier review (Verma, 2010). To that review an addition of researches by Palma-Silva et al., (2011) may be made. These authors have studied four sympatric species of Pitcairnia (Bromeliaceae) adapted to different inselbergs (= isolated “outcrops” or ecological islands in the tropical forests of South America) through molecular profiles of nuclear and plastid DNA. They have noted some gene flow among the four species for an extended period. But introgression through the gene flow has been extremely slow, because of an extremely low frequency of migrations of the species among the inselbergs, and because of gradual development of pre- and post-zygotic barriers between populations in the different ecological islands. Thus the four sympatric species of Pitcairnia have been maintaining their identity.\r\nSpeciation through hybridization and polyploidy\r\nOften speciation is initiated by hybridization; this may be referred to as “hybrid speciation”, by which is meant speciation in which hybridization has played “a principal role” (Mallet, 2007). Speciation may also be initiated by polyploidy. \r\nClosely related species are most likely to hybridize. A team of scientists at Massey University, New Zealand have developed a statistical procedure to identify hybridization events in the evolutionary history of a plant group (alpine buttercup species of Renunculus), assuming that hybridization generally occurs between species with minimum genetic differences between them (Joly et al., 2009). Their results have well confirmed their assumption of hybrid speciation hypothesis.\r\nSpeciation through hybridization is more common among plants than among animals. At an average 10% animal and 25% plant species are known to have hybridized with at least one other species (Mallet, 2007) in their history. Similar estimates of successful hybridization in the evolutionary history of plants and animals have been given by Hendry (2009). Edwards et al., (2011) have studied the polar bear (Ursus maritimus) and the brown bear (U. arctos) by preparing a palaeogeographic model, showing estimation of dynamics of the two bear species, taking into account past and present geographical ranges throughout 1,20,000 years and their maternal lineages. They have inferred multiple hybridization between the two species in overlapping parts of their ranges. The authors (Edwards et al., loc. cit.) have opined that the interspecific hybridization has helped their survival in marginal areas during periods of changing environment.\r\n In many cases of interspecific hybridization result in hybrids, which are not only viable and fertile, but also capable of invading new niches, and thus diversifying from their parentals. Hendry (2009) points out that often the hybrids not only survive and reproduce, they may also take to new evolutionary trajectories, different from their ancestors. \r\nCertain ecological conditions seem to promote hybridization. Hoban et al., (2009) have studied genetically (by sequencing and analyzing chloroplast and nuclear DNA) naturally occurring two forest trees, North American butternut (Juglans cinerea) and Japanese walnut (J. ailatifolia), and got evidence of hybridization between the two species in their history. They could identify 29 F1 and 22 advanced generation hybrids of the two tree species. Out of seven locations, in which the trees had been studied, in two they found extensive hybridization.\r\n \r\n\r\nBank et al., (2011) have developed mathematical analysis models to show how reproductive isolation develops in hybrid speciation between the hybrids and other hybrids and other species, including the parentals to complete formation of a new species. This happens due to appearance of modifiers, which are parts of the genome resulting in mate discrimination against other hybrids and heterospecifics. \r\nSmall modifiers, consisting of only one or two alleles, may have considerable/large effect in this direction. Appearance of only one mutation may even result in even total reproductive isolation. This concept has been referred to by the authors as QLD (quasi-linkage disequilibrium).\r\nFrom their analysis of some fragments of nuclear DNA and also mitochondrial DNA Brelsford et al., (2011) have inferred that Audubon’s warbler (Dendroica auduboni) has resulted from hybridization between myrtle warbler (D. coronata) and black- fronted warbler (D. nigrifrons). Further by presence of a deep cline between Audubon’s warbler and black-fronted warbler, absence of complete reproductive isolation between the two species has been inferred.\r\nPolyploidy has been another source of speciation, especially among plants. As Mayrose et al., (2011) have pointed out, polyploidy (i.e. duplication of the whole genome) is widespread among plants. Recent polyploids or neopolyploids are those polyploids, which have been formed since the genus origin. Among plants recent polyploidy has resulted in speciation in 15% flowering plants and 31% ferns.\r\nSoltis and Soltis (2009), in their review on hybridization and plant speciation, have said that recent developments in genomics have revealed that seemingly all flowering plant species have gone through at least one round of polyploidization and hybridization in their evolutionary history, and that hybridization has been an important driving force in producing angiosperm diversity. Homoploidy and alleloploidy have been significant sources of plant speciation. (homoploidy = hybrids with diploidy and are recombinationational; alleloploidy = duplication of chromosomes in hybrids, as defined by Mallet, 2007).\r\nGorelick and Olson (2011) have asked : Is lack of diversity among cycads a result of a lack of polyploidy\r\nCONCLUDING REMARKS\r\nInvolvement of some arbitrariness in delimitation of species, whatever be the method of the delimitation (phenotypic/quantitative/genetic/phylogenetic) cannot be denied. But even then species level taxonomy is important, as it suits the human tendency of categorization, and helps recording, expression, communication, and estimation of biodiversity.\r\nPerhaps the relation between species and speciation can be brought out using a rough analogy. Making out a species is like filling a bin of water from a flowing stream. When the water, thus collected, is fresh, it resembles the water in the stream in all its qualities or in all parameters, except that it is stagnant and not flowing. But, if it remains in the container, in long isolated from the stream, it may differ considerably from the stream water due to contamination, pollution, and/or organic growth.\r\nIt may be added here that, in order to make out and describe a new and stable species, which is less likely to suffer from synonymization or splitting, a species level taxonomist may take to an integrative approach, which has been described under the subsection 4 of the section “Speciation and delimiting species” of this review.\r\n','Krishna Kumar Verma*, Dr. Pierre Jolivet** and Dr. Mrs. Rashmi Saxena (2013). Species and Speciation. Biological Forum – An International Journal 5(1): 42-49.'),(4489,'121','Pollution Status of Freshwater Bodies From Gadhinglaj Tahsil, District Kolhapur','N.A. Kamble and S.S. Sakhare','7 SS SAKHARE.pdf','',1,'Limnology is an interdisciplinary science, which involves a great deal of fieldwork along with laboratory studies to understand the structural and functional aspect of freshwater bodies. Six freshwater bodies were assessed for seasonal variations of physico-chemical parameters pH, Temperature, Dissolved Oxygen, Free Carbon dioxide, Hardness, Chemical Oxygen Demand, Total Solids, Total Dissolved Solids, Suspended Solids, Chloride, Alkalinity and base level contamination of heavy metals like Fe+, Na+ and K+ was evaluated. Physico-chemical parameters with heavy metal contamination found direct impact over the animal diversity of polluted water. The data was statistically analyzed and interpreted by using ANOVA. Attempt was made to compare the water quality of aquatic habitats for pollution status. ','Freshwater bodies, Physico-chemical parameters, Pollution status.','Limnology is an interdisciplinary science, which involves a great deal of fieldwork along with laboratory studies to understand the structural and functional aspect of freshwater bodies. Six freshwater bodies were assessed for seasonal variations of physico-chemical parameters pH, Temperature, Dissolved Oxygen, Free Carbon dioxide, Hardness, Chemical Oxygen Demand, Total Solids, Total Dissolved Solids, Suspended Solids, Chloride, Alkalinity and base level contamination of heavy metals like Fe+, Na+ and K+ was evaluated. Physico-chemical parameters with heavy metal contamination found direct impact over the animal diversity of polluted water. The data was statistically analyzed and interpreted by using ANOVA. Attempt was made to compare the water quality of aquatic habitats for pollution status. ','Biodiversity encompasses different communities and ecosystems along with their relative abundance. Rich diversity of an organism reflects good water quality, where as contamination affects diversity and abundance of organisms. Supply of potable water has also been affected by contamination of water resources in most developing countries (Ahmed and Begum, 2002). Water pollution is now posing a serious problem in India. Deterioration of inland water sources due to contamination by pathogens, parasites and other pollutants have many health problems. Oluduro and Aderiye, (2007) documented that, the availability of good quality of water is an indispensable feature for preventing diseases and improving quality of life. Regina and Nabi, (2003) reported that, increased demand of water because of population growth, agriculture and industrial development has tremendously deteriorated the chemical, biological and physical characteristics of the natural water resources. The worldwide distribution of water has variety of temporary pond due to geological differences (Solanki et al., 2007). The quality of drinking water plays an important role in maintaining health. Safe water is one, which should be free from fecal contamination and be conventional to the limits of chemical contamination (Murugesan et al., 2004). The wide array of pollutants discharged into aquatic environment may have physicochemical, biological, toxic and pathogenic effects (Goel, 2000). \r\nThe quality of water is getting vastly deteriorated due to unscientific waste disposal, improper water management and carelessness towards the environment, leading human health hazards (Agarkar and Thombre, 2005). Sediment analysis is increasingly important in evaluating qualities of the total ecosystem of water body the suspended precipitated (non-floating) substances and organic substances in water found capable of adhering pollutant particles (adsorption). Pollutants are conserved in sediments over long periods of time according to their chemical persistence and the physico-chemical and biochemical characteristics. This can also allow conclusions to be drawn regarding sources of contamination. The increasing industrialization and consequent pollution of water bodies have brought variable water crises. Discharge of sewage generates toxic materials leading to biodiversity problem (Dara, 2006). Number of factors, viz., pollution of soil, water, air, population, energy crises etc., has adverse effect over the floral and faunal diversity in the region. Direct discharge of industrial wastewater to soil surface or aquatic bodies severely contaminates the environment. Therefore, it is necessary to give treatment to disposed water before letting it off as effluent, to avoid contamination of natural system. According to Murugan et al., (1998), the zooplankton plays an integral role and served as bioindicators with tool for understanding water pollution status\r\nAhmad, (1996) and Contreras et al., (2009) documented that, the life of aquatic ecosystem is directly or indirectly depends on the water quality. The alteration of physico-chemical parameters of water affects the biota, its number and diversity. Physico-chemical parameters of aquatic bodies in relation to health have been studied by number of workers,(Vijaykumar,1996; Reddy, 2001; Nagaraja,2005), but less attention has been paid to compare data with river, reservoirs, lake and pond systems. In the present investigation, physico-chemical parameters from six freshwater sites of Gadhinglaj tahsil (District Kolhapur, Maharashtra) were assessed.\r\n\r\nMATERIAL AND METHODS \r\nStudy area: Gadhinglaj is important tahsil of Kolhapur district, state Maharashtra, geographically latitude has 16°13´26”N and longitude 74°26´9” E. Hiranyakeshi river is the major river which arises at Amboli in Sindhudurg district. River Hirenkeshi and 40 to 45 small or larger water reservoirs distributed in the tahsil. Local inhabitants use water for their daily needs with agriculture and industrial processes. For present study six water sites were selected including, site I (Nool pond), site II (Yenechwandi lake), and four riverine sites viz., site III (Nangnur spot), site IV ( Nilgi spot), site V (Harali spot) and site VI (Mahagoan spot).\r\nRESULTS AND DISCUSSIONS \r\nOver 17 million peoples put considerable pressure on the natural resources and have minimized the rate of development. Number of factors directly or indirectly responsible for ecological damage leading to extinction of species. The sewage, when influxes the aquatic systems, cause serious effects on physico-chemical and biological features of the water. The oxygen present in the lotic or lentic systems would destroy the organic part \r\n\r\nof sewage under natural processes. The biodegradable substances of sewage are rapidly decomposed by the process of oxidation. Aquatic ecosystems are affected by several health stressors, which significantly deplete biodiversity. Sediments in our rivers is an important habitat as well as a main nutrient source for aquatic organisms. Furthermore, sediments have an impact on ecological quality, because of their quality or quantity or both (Stronkhorst et al., 2004).\r\nTemperature: Temperature is one of the essential and changeable environmental factors, since it influence the growth and distribution of flora and fauna. Temperature is an important parameter, with vital role in chemical and biological activities. The excessive amount of nutrients in water bodies along with higher temperature favors the growth of algae and aquatic weeds (Wetch, 1952). In study we found that, surface water temperature ranged between 19°C to 31°C. It was recorded minimum during winter and maximum in summer. The monthly variations showed that, the water temperature followed the seasonal pattern and found fluctuated according to the prevailing atmospheric temperature. Thus on an average the maximum range of temperature was seen at site VI (25.91ºC) while minimum at site I (23.58 ºC) throughout the year (Table No.VII and fig. 1).\r\npH: Higher pH value is normally associated with high photosynthetic activity in water (Hujare, 2008). pH of water is an important indication of its quality and provides information in many types of geochemical equilibrium or solubility calculations (Hem, 1985). The large variation in pH of water found indicator of a highly productivity of natural water. (Sreenivasn 1976). (Krishna Ram et al., 2007), documented that, the pH range of 6.7 to 8.4 is considered to be safe for aquatic life to maintain productivity. However, pH below 4.0 and above 9.6 found hazardous to life. (Dash et al., 2008), reported that, the pH intensity of pollution, which influences aquatic productivity in rural areas. During the assessment we recorded acidic pH 6.2 at site I where as alkaline pH 9.4 at site VI. (Table No. VII and fig.1). \r\nDissolved oxygen: Oxygen is an index of the physical, chemical and biological processes. It also acts as an indicator of trophic status and magnitude of eutrophication in freshwater ecosystem. The exchange of oxygen across the air, water interface depends upon temperature, partial pressure of gases in atmosphere, dissolved salt concentration, wave action, relative solubility, photosynthetic activity of plants and respiration by bacteria, plants and animals in the water (Krishna et al., 2007). The rate of oxidation of organic matter increases, where oxygen get consumed and at higher temperature oxygen holding capacity of water decreases (Welch, 1952). The maximum range of dissolved oxygen was found 142 mg/l at site V in month of March while minimum 1 mg/l at site III. The occurance of high oxygen values during the summer season at site V indicated that, the photosynthesis by phytoplankton has major influence to the oxygen distribution. Gouda and Panigraphy, (1993) documented that, high values of dissolved oxygen during summer might be due to increased photosynthetic activity while lower values may be because of its utilization during decomposition of \r\norganic matter and respiration by micro and macro organisms. Maximum range of dissolved oxygen calculated by standard deviation method was (32.3 mg/l) at site II, while minimum at site I (20.28 mg/l) throughout the year (Table No. VII and fig. 1). Results indicated that, the population rate of phytoplankton and zooplankton was high at site II as compared to other sites, pond and all river spots.\r\nFree CO2: Free CO2 concentration in water indicates the presence of decomposable organic matter, bacterial action on organic matter and physiological activities of biotic components. CO2 content of water is essential sources of carbon that, can be assimilated and incorporated into the skeleton of living matter specifically in aquatic autotrophs. The amount of free CO2 present in stagnant water is generally maintained by diffusion from atmosphere, respiration of animals along with plants and bacterial decomposition of organic matter (Misra et al., 1991). The maximum free CO2 Value was 95.48 mg/l at site I whereas, minimum 2.2 mg/l at site IV. Thus on an average calculated by standard deviation method maximum range of free CO2 was noticed at site I (29.22 mg/l), while minimum at site II (13.4 mg/l) throughout the year (Table No.VII and fig. 1).\r\nHardness: Hardness results from the presence of divalent cations of which Ca+ + and Mg+ + which are most abundant in groundwater. The higher hardness value in summer season was mainly attributed to rising temperature, thereby increasing the solubility of Ca+ + and Mg+ + salts (Garg, 2003). Hardness in water is also derived from CO2 released in bacterial action from soil through in percolating water. The water hardness is primarily due to the result of interaction between water and geological fragmentation. Jeyaval, (2010) reported that, total hardness is varying from 40 mg/l to 1818mg/l and the total hardness for drinking water was specified as 300 mg/l. \r\nHardness in water also caused by metallic ions dissolved in water. (Krishna Ram et al., 2008b) noted that, calcium as a main cation or factor causes water hardness in natural water. In general hardness favors to zooplankton production, alkalinity and phosphate contact of water body. (Meshram, 2005) has noticed that, hardness is essential for normal growth of aquatic ecosystem. Total hardness value was maximum 250 mg/l at site I while minimum 44 mg/l at site VI. The average range of total hardness was maximum at site I (138.75 mg/l) by standard deviation method due to higher concentration of metallic ion while minimum recorded at site IV (76.80 mg/l) (Table No.VII and fig. 1). Recorded reading indicated that, in river water metallic ions are less dissolved. \r\nAlkalinity: Alkalinity of natural water is generally the result of content of bicarbonates and is usually expressed in terms of presence of calcium carbonate. Alkalinity favors to zooplankton population (Singh et al., 2002; Kiran et al., 2007). The higher value of alkalinity indicated the presence of bicarbonate, carbonate and hydroxide in the water bodies (Jain et al., 2000). The pH has direct relationship with total alkalinity, reported by (Bharadwaj and Sharma, 1999). The total alkalinity of water is mainly caused by the cations of Ca, Mg, Na, NH4 and Fe combined either as carbonates or bicarbonates or occasionally as hydroxides. The maximum value of alkalinity was (162 mg/l) at site I, while minimum (2 mg/l) at site VI. The average range of alkalinity was maximum at site I (104.33 mg/l) due to higher concentration of carbonates and bicarbonates while minimum at site VI (23.83 mg/l), (Table no.VII and fig. 1). Results indicated that, in river water carbonate and bicarbonate ions are less dissolved.\r\n\r\nChloride: Sreenivasan, (1965) documented that, Chloride concentration between 4-10 ppm indicates purity of water. The limit of chloride concentration for drinking water is specified as 600 mg/l (WHO, 1993). Chlorides are usually present in low concentrations in natural waters and play vital role in photophosphorylation reactions in autotrophs. The most important source of chloride in natural water is discharge of sewage. The excess sodium and chloride in drinking water may induce heart failure and hypertension (Husain and Ekbal, 2003). The minimum value of chloride is 14.2 mg/l at site VI in month of March, whereas maximum 411.8 mg/l in June month at site I. Water analysis from site I indicated that it was contaminated due to organic content of sewage, agricultural wastes inducing fertilizers etc. with discharge by surrounding areas. \r\n\r\nline, windblown materials, surface water inflow and decay of aquatic organisms these and other sources provide reservoir with quantities of solid materials. The average range of total solid content was maximum at site I (634.16 mg/l), while minimum at site VI (76.16 mg/l) (Table No.VII and fig. 1). \r\nTotal dissolved solids: High TDS concentration of water may cause laxative or constipation effects (Kumarasamy, 1989) beside the taste. The total concentration of dissolved solids in a water body found useful parameter in describing the chemical density as a fitness factor and as a general measure of edaphic relationship and productivity of the water (Jhingran, 1982). High content of dissolved solids elevated density of water, influencing osmoregulation and reducing gas solubility utility of water for drinking, irrigation and industries (Edmondson, 1959, Manivasakam, 2003). In freshwater ecosystem dissolved solids originate from natural sources and found depend upon location, geological basin of the water body, drainage, rainfall, and inflowing water. The animal pollution and human interference also contribute to enrichment of dissolved solids (Krishna Ram et al., 2007). In the present investigation the concentration of total dissolved solid found high at site I (605.33 mg/l) which has decreased potability and reduced utility of water for drinking, irrigation and industrial purposes. Minimum range of TDS was seen at site VI (66.5 mg/l) (Table No.VII and fig. 1).\r\nSuspended solids: The higher concentration of total suspended solids was found due to insoluble organic matter in sewage. According to Jain et al., (2003) the disposal of sewage and industrial effluent contribute suspended matter to the rivers. WHO, (1984) recorded that, 30-80 % human diseases were occurred due to impurities of water. The average range of suspended solids was maximum at site I (28 mg/l) while minimum at site VI (9.66 mg/l) (Table No.VII and fig. 1). Results Indicated enrichment of suspended solids at site I found unfit for drinking, irrigation and also for industrial purpose. \r\nCOD: COD found reliable parameter for analysis of water pollution. The maximum COD was found at site III 392 mg/l in month of September while at site VI 4 mg/l (Table No.VII and Fig.1). \r\nSodium: The industrial discharge and sewage disposal found increased the content of sodium, sodium salts impart water with softness (Adoni et al., 1985). \r\nSodium when present in high concentration limits the biological diversity due to osmotic stress (Adoni et al., 1985). The maximum range of sodium seen at site I (72.54 mg/l) while minimum at site VI (7.91 mg/l) (Table No.VII and Fig.1). Maximum sewage discharge was found at site I leading to its pollution as compared to others. \r\nPotassium: Potassium found vital role in the metabolism of freshwater organisms (Krishna Ram et al., 2007). Cell membrane continually pumps the potassium and sodium, which requires the expenditure of large amount of energy (Goldman and Horne, 1983). The high concentration of potassium content was noted at site I (59.58 mg/l) while minimum at site VI (1.22 mg/l) (Table No.VII and Fig. 1). \r\nIron: Iron is the vital element of life. It is a natural component of soil and its concentration can be influenced by industrialization. Iron concentration in surface water varies greatly, from 61ppm to 2680 ppm (Abal et al., 2001). The direct and indirect effect of iron contamination decreases the species diversity and abundance of plankton and benthic invertebrates (Fritz et al., 1975). Fe found to induce free radicals that, causes breaks in nucleic acid and oncogene activation (Reizen and Wang, 2001). Iron content of water was high at site V (0.93 mg/l) while minimum at site II (0.52 mg/l) (Table No.VII and Fig. 1). \r\nPresent limnological study revealed that, the site I (Nool pond) found highly polluted due to continuous discharge of municipal waste, runoff from agricultural waste and industrial content. High content of alkalinity, chlorides, total solids, total dissolved solids, suspended solids, sodium and potassium was found more at site I. Thus the water found unfit for drinking and other domestic uses. Seasonwise content of COD was high 392 mg/l in month of September at site III and at site V 312 mg/l in month of November. On the basis of these analysis of physico-chemical characteristics, it was concluded that the site III and site V which is near sugar mill found contaminated due to higher concentration of total dissolved solids, chloride, COD, and alkalinity which were recorded greater than permissible limits of WHO. Site VI was found least polluted as that of other sites. All the sites found more or less contaminated. It was found above contents has direct impact over the animal diversity. The study is in progress for the assessment. \r\n','N.A. Kamble and S.S. Sakhare (2013). Pollution Status of Freshwater Bodies From Gadhinglaj Tahsil, District Kolhapur. Biological Forum – An International Journal 5(1): 50-61. '),(4490,'121','Species and Speciation','Krishna Kumar Verma*, Dr. Pierre Jolivet** and Dr. Mrs. Rashmi Saxena***','6 KK VERMA.pdf','',1,'Speciation refers to genetic divergence among related populations, leading to new species. The divergence is a continuous phenomenon, and the level, chosen by a taxonomist in the continuum, is a new species. The generally accepted species concept is the Biological Species Concept (BSC), which takes reproductive isolation from related forms a necessary feature of a species. During speciation reproductive isolation, among sister lineages, gradually develops. Hence the need to assess the extent of the isolation makes delimiting a species a difficult problem. Generally the extent of phenotypic deviation along a lineage is taken to assess reproductive isolation. This obviously involves some arbitrariness. To reduce the level of the arbitrariness various methods have been suggested, viz. a quantitative approach, molecular genetic criteria, phylogenetic approach etc. But, in spite of these different approaches, some arbitrariness may remain in species delimitation. Several recent authors have pleaded for an integrative approach (i.e. including phenotypic approach, phylogeny, molecular sequence study etc.) in discovery and description of new species to come closest to the species criteria set by BSC.','Reproductive isolation; Species concepts; Species delimitation; Sexual Selection; Sympatric speciation.','Speciation refers to genetic divergence among related populations, leading to new species. The divergence is a continuous phenomenon, and the level, chosen by a taxonomist in the continuum, is a new species. The generally accepted species concept is the Biological Species Concept (BSC), which takes reproductive isolation from related forms a necessary feature of a species. During speciation reproductive isolation, among sister lineages, gradually develops. Hence the need to assess the extent of the isolation makes delimiting a species a difficult problem. Generally the extent of phenotypic deviation along a lineage is taken to assess reproductive isolation. This obviously involves some arbitrariness. To reduce the level of the arbitrariness various methods have been suggested, viz. a quantitative approach, molecular genetic criteria, phylogenetic approach etc. But, in spite of these different approaches, some arbitrariness may remain in species delimitation. Several recent authors have pleaded for an integrative approach (i.e. including phenotypic approach, phylogeny, molecular sequence study etc.) in discovery and description of new species to come closest to the species criteria set by BSC.','A number of papers on this topic have appeared in the recent past. Still some aspects of this subject need to be emphasized and elucidated; hence this review, based mostly on recent publications.\r\n ‘Species’ is a very significant taxon. It has been described as an evolutionary lineage “with separate and unitary role” (Simpson, 1965). A separate and unitary role should involve reproductive isolation between the lineage in question and related lineages, including sister lineages. But then how is it that interspecific hybridizations are known to occur? Why sometimes synonymization of some described species is done? Why are there cases of a species turning out to be a ‘species cluster’? Efforts have been made in this review to emphasize and elucidate such aspects of the species level taxonomy as would answer and satisfy such questions. \r\nSpecies concepts\r\nThe various species concepts, as pointed out by Tobias et al., (2010) are: \r\n (i) The biological species concept (BSC),\r\n (ii) The phylogenetic species concept (PSC), and\r\n (iii) The monophyletic species concept (MSC).\r\nAmong these species concepts the most favoured by taxonomists is BSC (Gonzalez-Forero, 2009; Tobias et al., loc. cit.).\r\nAccording to the Biological Species Concept of Dobzhansky (1937) and Mayr (1942), “A species is a group of interbreeding natural populations that is reproductively isolated from such other groups” (Mayr & Ashlock, 1991). As Gonzalez-Forero (loc. cit.) has stated, BSC “continues to play a central role..… specially when studying the origin of species….”. Tobias et al., (loc. cit.) say, “BSC … has some advantages as a framework for a global taxonomic treatment”, and also, “(the concept) applies to a relatively fixed and broadly intuitive limit to species diversity”.\r\nHausdorf (2011) has analytically examined the various species concepts, and finds the genic concept of Wu (2001) most acceptable. This concept, as adopted by Hausdorf (loc. cit.) may be stated this way: A species is a differentiated and further differentiating group of interbreeding populations, which is able to maintain its differentiation identity despite limited gene flow between itself and similar other populations. Obviously it is a modified version of BSC, modified in view of the ‘semipermeable’ nature of the reproductive isolation between similar species.\r\n \r\n Verma, Jolivet and Saxena 43\r\n \r\nSpeciation and delimiting species\r\nIt is important to distinguish between speciation and species. While speciation is a continuous genetic divergence among and along sister lineages, a species is a taxon made out in the continuum of speciation. As per BSC, a species is reproductively isolated from related species. But during progress of speciation reproductive isolation very commonly gradually develops (Verma, 2006; Hendry, 2009; Gonzalez-Forero, 2009) (Fig. 1). Almost no taxonomist, before recording a new species, performs breeding experiments to ascertain reproductive isolation from related forms. Considerable phenotypic divergence is generally taken as an indicator \r\n\r\n\r\nof reproductive isolation. As Winker (2009) has pointed out, species level taxonomy is < a categorical tool that results in discrete “bins” along a continuum of differentiation>. At the level, chosen in the continuum, for describing a new species by the taxonomist, reproductive isolation from sister lineages may not have fully developed (Fig. 1). That is why we often come across cases of interspecific hybridization. Gibbons (2011) has cited Jean-Jacques Hublin saying, “There are about 330 closely related species of mammals that interbreed, and at least a third of them can produce fertile hybrids.”.\r\nIt is obvious that the reproductive isolation part of BSC makes practical application of the concept in species level taxonomy, difficult. Gonzalez-Forero (2009) has suggested relaxation of this part of BSC. He says that this “non-discreteness” in the reproductive isolation part of BSC will make the concept applicable to the cases of “ring species”, and in addition to cases of interspecific genetic introgression.\r\n On relaxing the reproductive isolation component of BSC, the concept should read thus <A species is a group of interbreeding natural populations that is reproductively fully or partially isolated from other such other groups, with indications of further divergence and further development of reproductive isolation>. A shortcoming of this changed version of BSC is that the “indications” part may be misread by the working taxonomist. Hart (2010) has emphasized the importance of population studies in species level taxonomy. He has recommended studying quantitatively metapopulation differences in continuous variables, repeated at intervals. Such a study may help in making out directions in which the metapopulations are diverging. Such population studies are likely to provide firmer ‘indications’, the use of which is suggested in the modified version of BSC.\r\nThe foregoing account makes it clear that in delimiting and describing a new species on basis of BSC some arbitrariness is involved. This situation has been pointed out by Simpson (1965) and several other author. \r\n Verma, Jolivet and Saxena 44\r\n \r\n\r\nTo make the extent of arbitrariness less in species level taxonomic practice quantitative and some other methods of species delimitation have been suggested.\r\n1. Quantitative approach to species delimitation \r\nOne quantitative method for species delimitation has been suggested by Mayr (1969). As per this method, if we want to decide whether two similar populations belong to the same species, extent of allomorphy between them should be worked out by recording the ranges of variation in a morphological feature in the two populations, and then using the following formula to calculate the coefficient of difference\r\nCD = Sda + Sdb\r\n\r\nwhere CD = Coefficient of difference\r\n Ma and Mb = Mean of the variation in the populations a and b.\r\n Sda and Sdb = Standard deviation of the variation ranges in the populations a and b.\r\n \r\nIf between the two ranges of variation there is 75% linear overlap, the value of CD will work out to be 1.28. In such a case, if the two ranges are plotted as frequency curves, the number of individuals in the nonoverlap will be about 90%. Hence if the value of CD is found to be 1.28 or a little more, the two populations may be regarded as two subspecies of the same species. But, if it works out to be more than 1.75, the two populations may be taken as two distinct species. Some role of arbitrariness in this method, involving a statistical procedure, is obvious. Moreover, in the second edition of their book (Mayr & Ashlock, 1991), Mayr and his coauthor say that this statistical treatment may be helpful only along with other considerations, such as degree of spatial isolation between the two populations, absence of clinal variation, discordant variation of different characters etc..\r\n Tobias et al., (2010), in their significant paper, have suggested the following two steps to reduce the level of arbitrariness, when attempting making out a new species: \r\n(a) to determine quantitatively divergence in several phenotypic traits (i.e. a polythetic approach) among a sample of well established sympatric species, and next \r\n\r\nb) to study the corresponding traits quantitatively in two allopatric/parapatric populations, which are suspected to represent new species. If among the allopatric/parapatric populations, under study, the divergence is equal to or more than the threshold value of divergence in the sympatric species, they may be assigned the status of new species, and if not, they may be taken as subspecies.\r\n Tobias et al., (loc. cit.) have suggested use of Cohen’s d statistics for working out the degree of divergence in the chosen traits in a population. However, this method is rather complex. Perhaps it would be simpler to work out the coefficient of differences (CD) using Mayr’s formula (vide supra) for such chosen traits, both for the sympatric populations of related but distinct species, as well as for allopatric/parapatric populations, the species status of which is to be determined. If the mean (x) of the CDs of the different chosen traits in the allopatric/parapatric populations comes close to / is equal to /exceeds the x of the CDs of the corresponding traits in the sympatric populations, the former populations may be taken and described as new species. \r\n 2. Genetic approach to species delimitation and search of a speciation gene\r\nColeman (2008) has suggested a molecular approach for deciding whether two populations are different species. He says, “….analyses of one locus, the second Internal Transcribed Spacer (ITS2) of the nuclear ribosomal gene cistron has suggested a high degree of predictability across eukaryotes”. It is further pointed out, “As ITS2 differences between potential mates increase, sexual compatibility and zygote productivity decrease”. This author recommends that species, identified through differences in morphological features, may be confirmed by comparing ITS2 differences.\r\nHausdorf and Hennig (2010) have suggested a molecular method for species delimitation. Dominant and codominant markers in the genome have been taken as “fields of recombination”; hence individuals, agreeing in these markers may be taken as belonging to the same species. But, while pleading for objectivity of this approach, they acknowledge that “no fully objective solution” for species delimitation is yet available. These authors agree with the opinion of Sites and Marshall (2004) that eclectic or polythetic approach in species delimitation is needed, “because all methods for species delimitation will on occasion fail”.\r\nSeveral authors have recommended a multilocus approach in genetic delimitation of species, and not to base the delimitation on a single genetic marker (Legrand et. al., 2011; Gasiz et al., 2011; Morris-Pocock et al., 2011).\r\n Search of a speciation gene has long been pursued (Nosil & Schluter, 2011). By a speciation gene is meant any gene contributing to evolution of reproductive isolation, as required by BSC. Nosil & Schluter (loc. cit.) have reviewed publications suggesting discovery of a speciation gene, and have inferred that almost none fulfils the criteria for such a gene. But Hoso et al., (2010) present an instance, which comes close to the speciation gene concept. They point out that right and left torsion in snails is influenced by a single locus or gene. They have studied the case of Satsuma snails. Two factors seem to contribute to speciation divergence among populations of this snail; one : that dextral and sinistral individuals find mating with the opposite chirality difficult, as a result sinistrals choose sinistrals for copulation and dextrals prefer dextrals; and two: the snake Pareas iwasaki prefers predation on dextrals, and, thus presence of this predator favours survival of sinistrals.\r\nBiogeography of this snail reveals that speciation, favouring sinistrals , has been accelerated in areas, in which this snake predator occurs. In this instance the single gene, influencing the direction of coiling/torsion, may behave as a speciation gene. \r\nBut in a genetic approach to species delimitation one has to study the populations, in question, genetically, including Molecular Genetics, and the whole process will be too long, and with no assurance of being infallible. \r\n3. Phylogenetic approach to species delimitation\r\nThe fast developing phylogenetic approach to make out species is based on the cladistic analysis of Hennig (1966). In this process an evolutionary or phylogenetic tree is made out on basis of synapomorphies (= derived shared characters). According to Hennig (loc. cit.) species result from divergence of two sister lineages. As per this author a species is terminated and breaks into two new species at the point of the split, at which point two new species come into being. , i.e. “A species begins at a branching point and ends at the next branching point in a cladogram” (as cited by Mayr & Ashlock, 1991).\r\nBut this view of Hennig (loc. cit.) is unacceptable, as it is well realized now that that reproductive isolation only gradually develops after a split (Fig. 1).\r\n \r\nA more acceptable view has been stated by Kergoat et al., (2011). They opine that a new species is made out at a certain branch length after a split in a phylogenetic tree. The required branch length may be decided by coming to a threshold value. Presumably the threshold value may be worked out by location of some well established species in the phylogenetic tree or dendrogram, which has been based on morphological or molecular data or both. \r\n4. An integrative approach to species delimitation\r\nA number of recent authors have pleaded in favour of an integrative approach in making out a species, i.e. use of both traditional morphological/phenotypic approach as well as molecular phylogeny (Kergoat et al., 2011; Barrett & Freudenstein, 2011; Lopardo et al, 2011; Kenfeck, 2011; Ahyong et al., 2010; Winker, 2009). \r\nIn an integrative approach use of ecological, biogeographical, population level, and behavioural data has also been suggested (Benz & Robbins, 2011; Hawlitschek et al., 2011; Barrett and Freudenstein, 2011; Hart, 2010).\r\nSPECIATION THROUGH SEXUAL SELECTION\r\nWenninger and Averill (2006) have categorized different modes of sexual selection. A factor, obviously operative in sexual selection, is sexual communication to invite the opposite sex for mating. The sexual communication may be chemical, visual, or acoustic. \r\nAn illustrative account is in the work of Ryan et al., (2010). They have studied mating calls in the tungara frogs (Physalaemus pustulosus). In this species males emit a sound signal as a mating call. The sound may be a simple whine or whine ornamented with some other sound (whine chucks). Through experiments, using recorded conspecific, heterospecific, predator produced, and human made sounds, the authors have inferred that \r\nfemales of the species show a strong preference for ornamented whines or whine chucks to simple whine, and that males are evolving towards production of ornamented whines as their mating calls.\r\nShaw et al., (2011) point out that sexual communication within a species is uniform in nature and quality due to stabilizing effect of selection. Any deviation from the normal communication would fail to attract the opposite sex; hence it gets negatively selected. But then how does divergence in the nature of communication occur? The authors (Shaw et al., loc. cit.) opine that some mutations may pleiotropically affect the mating signal and also the preference of response by the other sex, and thus divergence, which may lead to speciation, may result.\r\nKraaijeveld et al., (2011) say that quite long it has been believed that sexual selection has been an important factor in speciation and origin of new species, thus producing species richness among different groups of animals. To test this hypothesis these authors have extensively reviewed the published relevant data, and have analyzed the data phylogenetically and statistically. \r\n\r\nThey have inferred:\r\n (i) that there is a small but significantly positive support for the hypothesis.\r\n (ii) that, when sexual selection affects also ecological adaptation, it not only leads to origin of new species, but also to “maintenance of (the) species”.\r\n (iii) that the frequency of correlation between species origin and sexual selection varies in different taxa:\r\n (a) among available data for birds in 38 studies 24 show positive correlation,\r\n (b) among available data for insects in 6 studies in 4 the hypothesis was found supported,\r\n (c) among 14 studies in mammals none was found supportive.\r\nSYMPATRIC SPECIATION \r\nIt has been traditionally believed that speciation in most cases has occurred in allopatry. But some recent studies have shown that it occurs in sympatry too, and speciation in sympatry is more common than believed earlier. On this mode of speciation there is an earlier review (Verma, 2010). To that review an addition of researches by Palma-Silva et al., (2011) may be made. These authors have studied four sympatric species of Pitcairnia (Bromeliaceae) adapted to different inselbergs (= isolated “outcrops” or ecological islands in the tropical forests of South America) through molecular profiles of nuclear and plastid DNA. They have noted some gene flow among the four species for an extended period. But introgression through the gene flow has been extremely slow, because of an extremely low frequency of migrations of the species among the inselbergs, and because of gradual development of pre- and post-zygotic barriers between populations in the different ecological islands. Thus the four sympatric species of Pitcairnia have been maintaining their identity.\r\nSpeciation through hybridization and polyploidy\r\nOften speciation is initiated by hybridization; this may be referred to as “hybrid speciation”, by which is meant speciation in which hybridization has played “a principal role” (Mallet, 2007). Speciation may also be initiated by polyploidy. \r\nClosely related species are most likely to hybridize. A team of scientists at Massey University, New Zealand have developed a statistical procedure to identify hybridization events in the evolutionary history of a plant group (alpine buttercup species of Renunculus), assuming that hybridization generally occurs between species with minimum genetic differences between them (Joly et al., 2009). Their results have well confirmed their assumption of hybrid speciation hypothesis.\r\nSpeciation through hybridization is more common among plants than among animals. At an average 10% animal and 25% plant species are known to have hybridized with at least one other species (Mallet, 2007) in their history. Similar estimates of successful hybridization in the evolutionary history of plants and animals have been given by Hendry (2009). Edwards et al., (2011) have studied the polar bear (Ursus maritimus) and the brown bear (U. arctos) by preparing a palaeogeographic model, showing estimation of dynamics of the two bear species, taking into account past and present geographical ranges throughout 1,20,000 years and their maternal lineages. They have inferred multiple hybridization between the two species in overlapping parts of their ranges. The authors (Edwards et al., loc. cit.) have opined that the interspecific hybridization has helped their survival in marginal areas during periods of changing environment.\r\n In many cases of interspecific hybridization result in hybrids, which are not only viable and fertile, but also capable of invading new niches, and thus diversifying from their parentals. Hendry (2009) points out that often the hybrids not only survive and reproduce, they may also take to new evolutionary trajectories, different from their ancestors. \r\nCertain ecological conditions seem to promote hybridization. Hoban et al., (2009) have studied genetically (by sequencing and analyzing chloroplast and nuclear DNA) naturally occurring two forest trees, North American butternut (Juglans cinerea) and Japanese walnut (J. ailatifolia), and got evidence of hybridization between the two species in their history. They could identify 29 F1 and 22 advanced generation hybrids of the two tree species. Out of seven locations, in which the trees had been studied, in two they found extensive hybridization.\r\n \r\n\r\nBank et al., (2011) have developed mathematical analysis models to show how reproductive isolation develops in hybrid speciation between the hybrids and other hybrids and other species, including the parentals to complete formation of a new species. This happens due to appearance of modifiers, which are parts of the genome resulting in mate discrimination against other hybrids and heterospecifics. \r\nSmall modifiers, consisting of only one or two alleles, may have considerable/large effect in this direction. Appearance of only one mutation may even result in even total reproductive isolation. This concept has been referred to by the authors as QLD (quasi-linkage disequilibrium).\r\nFrom their analysis of some fragments of nuclear DNA and also mitochondrial DNA Brelsford et al., (2011) have inferred that Audubon’s warbler (Dendroica auduboni) has resulted from hybridization between myrtle warbler (D. coronata) and black- fronted warbler (D. nigrifrons). Further by presence of a deep cline between Audubon’s warbler and black-fronted warbler, absence of complete reproductive isolation between the two species has been inferred.\r\nPolyploidy has been another source of speciation, especially among plants. As Mayrose et al., (2011) have pointed out, polyploidy (i.e. duplication of the whole genome) is widespread among plants. Recent polyploids or neopolyploids are those polyploids, which have been formed since the genus origin. Among plants recent polyploidy has resulted in speciation in 15% flowering plants and 31% ferns.\r\nSoltis and Soltis (2009), in their review on hybridization and plant speciation, have said that recent developments in genomics have revealed that seemingly all flowering plant species have gone through at least one round of polyploidization and hybridization in their evolutionary history, and that hybridization has been an important driving force in producing angiosperm diversity. Homoploidy and alleloploidy have been significant sources of plant speciation. (homoploidy = hybrids with diploidy and are recombinationational; alleloploidy = duplication of chromosomes in hybrids, as defined by Mallet, 2007).\r\nGorelick and Olson (2011) have asked : Is lack of diversity among cycads a result of a lack of polyploidy\r\nCONCLUDING REMARKS\r\nInvolvement of some arbitrariness in delimitation of species, whatever be the method of the delimitation (phenotypic/quantitative/genetic/phylogenetic) cannot be denied. But even then species level taxonomy is important, as it suits the human tendency of categorization, and helps recording, expression, communication, and estimation of biodiversity.\r\nPerhaps the relation between species and speciation can be brought out using a rough analogy. Making out a species is like filling a bin of water from a flowing stream. When the water, thus collected, is fresh, it resembles the water in the stream in all its qualities or in all parameters, except that it is stagnant and not flowing. But, if it remains in the container, in long isolated from the stream, it may differ considerably from the stream water due to contamination, pollution, and/or organic growth.\r\nIt may be added here that, in order to make out and describe a new and stable species, which is less likely to suffer from synonymization or splitting, a species level taxonomist may take to an integrative approach, which has been described under the subsection 4 of the section “Speciation and delimiting species” of this review.\r\n','Krishna Kumar Verma*, Dr. Pierre Jolivet** and Dr. Mrs. Rashmi Saxena (2013). Species and Speciation. Biological Forum – An International Journal 5(1): 42-49.'),(4491,'121','Diversity of Hawk Moths (Lepidoptera: Sphingidae) in Veerangana Durgavati Wildlife Sanctuary, Damoh, Madhya Pradesh','Kailash Chandra*, Roshni Pandey**, Rita Bhandari ** and S. Sambath***','10 DR KAILASH CHANDRA.pdf','',1,'The paper deals with the study of hawk moth’s diversity in Veerangana Durgavati Wildlife Sanctuary, Madhya Pradesh. The faunal exploration of the sanctuary during 2009 to 2011, resulted the enumeration of 12 species of hawk moths belonging to 10 genera and 3 subfamilies. Of these, one species viz. Agnosia microta (Hampson) is new addition to the fauna of Madhya Pradesh. All the specimens are deposited in the national repository of Zoological Survey of India, Jabalpur','Lepidoptera, Diversity, Sphingidae, Moths, Veerangana Durgavati Wildlife Sanctuary, Damoh, Madhya Pradesh','The paper deals with the study of hawk moth’s diversity in Veerangana Durgavati Wildlife Sanctuary, Madhya Pradesh. The faunal exploration of the sanctuary during 2009 to 2011, resulted the enumeration of 12 species of hawk moths belonging to 10 genera and 3 subfamilies. Of these, one species viz. Agnosia microta (Hampson) is new addition to the fauna of Madhya Pradesh. All the specimens are deposited in the national repository of Zoological Survey of India, Jabalpur','Moths of the Sphingidae are medium size to large and heavy bodied with long narrow fore wings and relatively small hind wings. Wingspans range from about 40 mm to 140 mm. In the fore wing vein M2 arises a little closer M3 than M1. Veins Sc and Rs in the hind wing are to end of discal cell and beyond; near the middle point of the discal cell, connected by an oblique cross vein. A frenulum present, thickend and somewhat spindle-shaped towards the tip. Sometimes bipectinate. The proboscis usually long sometimes much longer than the body (Sphinginae) but sometimes short or vestigial (Smerithinae). Sphingid moths fly very strongly with rapidly beating wings. \r\nHawk moths are a very diverse group represented by 203 genera and 1348 species described all over the world (Pogue, 2009) and about 200 species are known from India. Moth fauna of Madhya Pradesh and Chhattisgarh was studied by Chandra and Nema (2007) and 313 species of moths were listed, which included 23 species of family Sphingidae. However there was no report of any hawk moth neither from Damoh district nor the Veerangana Durgavati Wildlife Sanctuary, therefore while undertaking the faunal explorations of the sanctuary, the hawk moth diversity of the sanctuary was also investigated. \r\nThe present study deals with the detail account of 12 species of hawk moths of the sanctuary, which includes material examined, diagnostic characters and distribution of each species. \r\nMATERIALS AND METHODS\r\nStudy area: The present study was undertaken in the Veerangana Durgavati Wildlife Sanctuary (VDWLS), Madhya Pradesh. The sanctuary is named after ‘Rani Durgavati’ the famous queen of Gond dynasty, the area now coming under the sanctuary fall under her regime. The sanctuary was created in the year 1996 vide Notification of Government of Madhya Pradesh (Tiwari, 2003). The area of the sanctuary is 24 sq.kms. The sanctuary lies between 2330’9” & 2435’ N latitudes & between 7951’0” & 7951’13” E longitudes. \r\nCollection methods: The collection of moths was made through the light traps, using 160-watt mercury bulb connected with the light sources. For collecting moths, a white sheet of cloth was spread on the ground, with a strong source of light placed over it. The white cloth sheet may also be hung between two vertical poles in such a way that it touches the surface and extends forwards over the ground for a few feet so that all those moths, which are in the habit of settling on the ground slightly away from the direct source of light are also caught.\r\n \r\n\r\nIdentification: The specimens collected from different areas were identified with the help of all available traditional taxonomic characters for the group & available literature (Bell & Scott 1937). The current nomenclature used for species identification is based on LEPINDEX (Beccaloni et al. 2003). The characters of male genitalia were also studied for distinguishing the allied species. \r\nOBSERVATIONS\r\nThe following list of the Sphingidae of VDWLS is based mainly on the classification of Bell & Scott (1937) and the species under tribes are arranged in alphabetical order.\r\n Systematic account\r\n Order: Lepidoptera \r\n Superfamily: Bombycoidea \r\n Family: Sphingidae\r\n 1. SUBFAMILY: SPHINGINAE\r\n TRIBE: ACHERONTIINI\r\n1. Acherontia lachesis (Fabricius)\r\n1798. Sphinx lachesis Fabricius, Syst. Ent. Suppl.,: 434.\r\n1937. Acherontia lachesis: Bell & Scott, Fauna Brit. India, Moths, 5: 55.\r\nMaterial examined: Sangrampur FRH, 18.xi.2009 (1ex.), coll. J. Thilak & party.\r\nDiagnostic characters: Head and thorax blackish, powdered with white, yellow and blue-grey scales. The skull mark on the dorsum of the thorax more conspicuous. Fore wing blackish, powdered with white, yellow and bluish grey scales. Hind wing upper side with the basal third marked with black.Abdomen black with a broad, interrupted, grey-blue dorsal stripe and small yellow side patches on the four proximal segments. Underside of both wings yellow Wingspan: 102-132 mm.\r\nDistribution: Throughout India including Madhya Pradesh (Damoh, Indore, Seoni). Elsewhere: Bangladesh, Bhutan, China, Java up to Southern Moluccas in the farther east, Malaysia, Myanmar, Pakistan and Sri Lanka.\r\n2. Acherontia styx styx (Westwood)\r\n1844. Sphinx (Acherontia) styx Westwood, Cab. Orient. Ent., : 88, t. 42. f. 3.\r\n1937. Acherontia styx styx, Bell & Scott, Fauna Brit. India, Moths, 5: 58.\r\nMaterial examined: Sangrampur. FRH, 18.xi.2009 (1ex.), coll. J. Thilak & party\r\nDiagnostic characters: This species distinguished from Acherontia lachesis by the basal third of hind wing upper side being immaculate instead of marked with black. Skull-mark on thorax is less conspicuous. Fore wing with tawny-russet streaks. Antennae much more slender and longer in both sexes. Abdomen bears yellow side-patches well extensive. Fore tibiae with few spines. Wingspan: 90-130 mm.\r\nDistribution: Throughout India including Madhya Pradesh (Indore, Jabalpur, Damoh, Seoni). Elsewhere: Bangladesh, Bhutan, Myanmar, Pakistan and Sri Lanka.\r\n3. Agrius convolvuli convolvuli (Linnaeus)\r\n1767. Sphinx convolvuli Linnaeus, Syst. Nat. ed. xii: 798.\r\n1937. Herse convolvuli convolvuli: Bell & Scott, Fauna Brit. India, Moths, 5: 61.\r\nMaterial examined: Sangrampur FRH, 18.xi.2009 (1ex.); Bhaisaghat, 23.xi.2009 (1ex.), coll. J. Thilak & party; Danital, 08.ix.2010 (1 ex.), coll. K. Chandra & party; \r\nDiagnostic characters: Head, thorax, abdomen and fore wing grey; dark brown bands along sides of palpi and thorax meeting on metathorax, with a few blue and yellow scales present on abdomen with blackish dorsal stripe and brown subdorsal, segmental patches. Fore wing with dark oblique lines from costa; two black streaks from cell, continued as a dentate streak to apex of wing and obliquely to costa at the proximal end and sharply defining a pale apical patch, a series of whitish sub marginal lunules, cilia chequered black and white. Hind wing brown, with a black patch at anal angle, limited inwardly by a pale submarginal line and more or less suffused with grey. Wing expanse: Male: 82-122 mm. Female: 108-138 mm. \r\nDistribution: India: Madhya Pradesh (Damoh, Jabalpur, Mandla, Seoni), Chhattisgarh, West Bengal and rest of the mainland. Elsewhere: Eastern Hemisphere except higher altitudes; rarely in Siberia.\r\nTRIBE: SPHINGINI\r\n4. Psilogramma menephron menephron (Cramer) \r\n1780. Sphinx menephron Cramer, Pap. Exot. 3: 164.\r\n1937. Psilogramma menephron menephron: Bell & Scott, Fauna Brit. India, Moths, 5: 77-78.\r\nMaterial examined: Tilgula patrolling, 28.vi.2010 (1 ex.), coll. J. Thilak & party.\r\nDiagnostic characters. Colour head, thorax, abdomen and fore wing grey, dark brown bands along sides of palpi and thorax meeting on metathorax, where there are a few blue and yellow scales abdomen with a blackish dorsal stripe and brown subdorsal, segmental patches. Fore wing with dark oblique lines from costa, two black streaks from cell. Continued as a dentate streak to apex of wing and obliquely to costa at the proximal end and sharply defining a pale apical patch, a series of whitish submarginal lunules, cilia chequered black and white. Hind wing brown, with a black patch at anal angle, limited inwardly by a pale submarginal line and more or less suffused with grey. Wing expanse. Male: 82-122 mm., Female: 108-138 mm. \r\nDistribution. India: Throughout India including Madhya Pradesh (Damoh, Seoni, Umaria). Elsewhere: China and eastwards to the Solomon Islands.\r\n2. SUBFAMILY: MACROGLOSSINAE\r\nTRIBE : MACROGLOSSINI\r\n5. Daphnis nerii (Linnaeus)\r\n1758. Sphinx nerii Linnaeus, Syst. Nat. ed.10: 490.\r\n1937. Deilephila nerii: Bell & Scott, Fauna Brit. India, Moths, 5: 268-269.\r\nMaterial examined: Sangrampur FRH, 18.xi.2009 (1ex.), coll., J. Thilak & party.\r\nDiagnostic characters: The head of adult male and female moth green; rufous in front, a grey band on vertex; thorax green, the collar outlined in grey; a triangualr grey patch on vertex. Abdomen pale green, with dark green lateral oblique stripes and a pale subbasal belt. Fore wing bright green; a basal white patch with a black spot on it. Hind wing fuscous with a pale, curved, submarginal line, beyond which the colour dark olivaceous. Underside suffused with chestnut. Wing expanse: Male, 84-116 mm.; Female, 84-126 mm.\r\nDistribution: Throughout India including Madhya Pradesh (Damoh, Jabalpur, Indore, Hoshangabad) and West Bengal. Elsewhere: Europe, Myanmar, Pakistan, Sri Lanka, Ethiopian Regions and West Asia.\r\n6. Hippotion boerhaviae (Fabricius) \r\n1775. Sphinx boerhaviae Fabricius, Syst. Ent. : 542.\r\n1937. Hippotion boerhaviae: Bell & Scott, Fauna Brit. India, Moths, 5: 424.\r\nMaterial examined: Bhaisaghat, 08.ix.2010 (1ex.); Danital, 08.ix.2010 (2 exs.), coll., K. Chandra & party; Sangrampur FRH, 18.xi.2009 (1ex.), coll. J. Thilak & party.\r\nDiagnostic characters: This species usually less red than allied species. The head, thorax and abdomen of the adult moth pale brown, antennae and sides of thorax whitish, abdomen having faint ochraceous stripes and black patches, Fore wing pale brown, with a dark speck at end of cell, six faint oblique lines from near apex to inner margin. Hind wing being smaller and with black patch at base. Wing expanse: 50-58 mm.\r\nDistribution: India: Madhya Pradesh (Damoh, Hoshangabad, Indore, Mandla, Seoni and Umaria), Andhra Pradesh, Chhattisgarh, Eastern Himalayas, Gujarat, Maharashtra Orissa, Sikkim, Southern Peninsula, West Himalaya and West Bengal, Elsewhere: Bhutan, China (south), Malaya, Pakistan, Philippines and Sri Lanka. \r\n7. Nephele hespera (Fabricius) \r\n1777. Sphinx hespera Fabricius, Syst. Ent.: 546.\r\n1937. Nephele didyma: Bell & Scott, Fauna Brit. India, Moths, 5: 325.\r\nMaterial examined: Sangrampur FRH, 18.xi.2009 (1ex.), coll. J. Thilak & party.\r\nDiagnostic characters: The head, thorax, and abdomen olive-brown or green; abdomen with lateral black segmental bands. Fore wing olive-brown, with six waved, transverse lines and an angled submarginal line, the space between it and outer margin paler. Hind wing raw-umber colour, with a tint of russet, or more russet; outer marginal area darker in tint; the cilia ochreous. Underside paler, each wing with two transverse lines.\r\nWing expanse: Male, 70-78 mm.; Female, 72-86. mm.\r\nDistribution: Throughout India including Madhya Pradesh (Damoh, Indore, Seoni, Shivpuri and Umaria), Andaman Islands, Western and Eastern Himalayas, South India. Elsewhere: Myanmar, Sri Lanka extending to Malaya.\r\n8. Theretra alecto alecto (Linnaeus)\r\n1758. Sphinx alecto Linnaeus, Syst. Nat. ed. 10: 492.\r\n1937. Theretra alecto alecto: Bell & Scott, Fauna Brit. India, Moths, 5: 440.\r\nMaterial examined: Thilgula Patrolling, 28.vi.2010 (3 exs.), coll., J. Thilak & party.\r\nDiagnostic characters: Head and thorax dark brown, abdomen pale brown; antennae and side of head and thorax whitish; abdomen with a black side batch on first segment and three dorsal lines. Fore wing pale brown with a dark speck at end of cell. Hind wing pink, black at base, anal angle flesh colour. Wingspan: 85 mm.\r\nDistribution: India: Madhya Pradesh (Damoh, Indore, Jabalpur, Hoshangabad, Mandla, Seoni, Umaria), South India, Western and Eastern Himalaya and West Bengal. Elsewhere: Afghanistan, Bhutan, Indonesia, Malaysia, Myanmar, Northward to Formosa and eastward to the key Islands, Pakistan, Sulawesi and Taiwan\r\n9. Theretra oldenlandiae oldenlandiae (Fabricius)\r\n1775. Sphinx oldenlandiae Fabricius, Syst. Ent.,: 542.\r\n1937. Theretra oldenlandiae oldenlandiae: Bell & Scott, Fauna Brit. India, Moths, 5: 448.\r\nMaterial examined: Tilgula patrolling, 28.vi.2010 (1 ex.), coll., J. Thilak & party.\r\nDiagnostic characters: Head and thorax brown; a pale lateral stripe from palpus to end of thorax. Fore wing greyish-brown. Hind wing dusky with a pale submarginal band not reaching apex. Abdomen with double white dorsal lines. Wingspan: 54 – 70 mm.\r\nDistribution: India: Madhya Pradesh (Damoh, Indore, Jabalpur, Hoshangabad, Mandla, Seoni, Umaria), South India, West and East Himalaya and West Bengal. Elsewhere: Bhutan, Japan, Myanmar, Pakistan, Papua and Sri Lanka.\r\n3. SUBFAMILY: SMERINTHINAE\r\nTRIBE : SMERINTHINI\r\n10. Agnosia microta (Hampson)*\r\n1907. Marumba microta Hampson, Nov. Zool. 14: 327.\r\n1937. Agnosia microta: Hampson, Fauna Brit. India, Moths, 5: 213.\r\nMaterial examined: Thilgula Patrolling, 28.vi.2010 (3 exs.), coll., J. Thilak and party.\r\nDiagnostic characters: Head and thorax red-brown, the head rather paler except palpi; antennae whitish; abdomen red-brown. Fore wing grey-brown suffused with purplish-rufous and with slight dark suffusion; a black and rufuous subbasal spot on SM2; an oblique brown medial line, diffuse on outer side; post medial area somewhat greyer; an indistinct slightly curved subterminal line with two conjoined red-brown spots on it at inner margin; a small dark brown spot on termen below apex. Hind wing purplish red-brown with indistinct darker shade on termen near tornus. Fore tibia with a long curved at tip. Wing expanse: Male, 37-44 mm.\r\nDistribution: India: Madhya Pradesh (Damoh) and South India.\r\n11. Marumba dyras dyras (Walker) \r\n1856. Smerinthus dyras Walker, Cat. Lep. Het. Brit. Mus., 8: 250.\r\n1937. Marumba dyras dyras, Bell & Scott, Fauna Brit. India, Moths, 5: 179.\r\n\r\nMaterial examined: Tilgula patrolling, 28.vi.2010 (1 ex.), coll., J. Thilak & party.\r\nDiagnostic characters: Fore wing grey or earthen brown with grey powdering of the most distal double line, the external one much heavier than proximal one. Hind wing reddish to yellowish with fuscous base and large anal spot. Antenna one-third length of fore wing in male, a little shorter in female. Wing expanse: Male: 90-92 mm.; Female: 90-119 mm. \r\nDistribution: India: Madhya Pradesh (Damoh, Hoshangabad, Mandla, Seoni), Andamans, Chhattisgarh, Western and Eastern Himalayas and South India. Elsewhere: Sri Lanka.\r\n12. Polyptychus dentatus (Cramer)\r\n1777. Sphinx dentatus Cramer, Pap. Exot. 2.: 42 t.125 f. G.\r\n1937. Polyptychus dentatus: Bell & Scott, Fauna Brit. India, Moths, 5: 169.\r\nMaterial examined: Tilgula patrolling, 28.vi.2010 (1 ex.), coll., J. Thilak & party.\r\nDiagnostic characters: Colour grey wing with a diffused medial band, oblique antemedial, postmedial and submarginal lines , the last curved in some specimens, between the postmedial and submarginal lines an indistinct waved line, apical area clouded. Hind wing with a waved postmedial line. Cilia chequered brown and white. Under side, fore wing with submarginal, hind wing with medial and submarginal lines. Wing expanse. - Male: 92-108 mm., Female: 116-120 mm. \r\nDistribution: India: Madhya Pradesh (Damoh, Indore, Seoni), Maharashtra, Uttar Pradesh, West Bengal, Eastern and Northwest Himalayas, Southern peninsula. Elsewhere: China, Pakistan and Sri Lanka\r\nRESULTS\r\nAltogether 12 species belonging to 10 genera and 3 subfamilies are studied from the Veerangana Durgavati Wildlife Sanctuary, Damoh, Madhya Pradesh. Of these, one species- Agnosia microta (Hampson) is new addition to the fauna of Madhya Pradesh. The number of species differs in various subfamilies. The maximum number of species is recorded in the subfamily Macroglossinae (5) followed by Sphinginae (4) and Smerinthinae (3). \r\n \r\n\r\n','Kailash Chandra, Roshni Pandey, Rita Bhandari and S. Sambath (2013). Diversity of Hawk Moths (Lepidoptera: Sphingidae) in Veerangana Durgavati Wildlife Sanctuary, Damoh, Madhya Pradesh.Biological Forum – An International Journal 5(1): 73-77. '),(4492,'121','Determination of Assay Evaluation of Pramipexole in Parkinsone’s Disease by RP-HPLC Method ','M.H. Patil* and M.D. Rokade*','11 GANESH PAPER 1.pdf','',1,'An isocratic reversed-phase HPLC method with PDA detector has been developed for the assay evaluation of Pramipexole in bulk drug. The analysis was performed using peerless Basic AQ C18 (250 x 4.6mm, 5µ) as a stationary phase with column oven temperature 40°c and UV detection at 254nm. The separation was achieved using isocratic program of buffer ( Buffer used was prepares as dissolved 4.5 gm of potassium phosphate and 2.0 gm of 1-Octane sulphonate sodium salt in to 2000 ml of water and pH adjusted to 3.0 with diluted orthophosphoric acid) and Acetonitrile in the ration 70:30. The method was optimized based on the peak shapes and resolution of Pramipexole impurity A, Pramipexole impurity B, Pramipexole, Pramipexole impurity E and Pramipexole impurity D. The method was validated as per International Conference of Harmonization (ICH) guidelines in terms of linearity, precision, accuracy, specificity, robustness and solution stability. The sample concentration were injected was 2 mg/ml for Pramipexole. The method is linear within the range of 100 to 300 µg/ml for Pramipexole.','Pramipexole, Assay , RP-HPLC,','The proposed LC method is selective for the quantification of Pramipexole present in Mirapex tablets. Hence this method is useful for the detection Pramipexole in routine analysis. ','Development of analytical methods for bulk drug and their formulations is an important aspect in the drug product development as it helps to maintain the quality and efficacy of the drug product right from the product development process till its ultimate therapeutic use. Highly specific and sensitive analytical technique holds the key to the design, development, standardization and quality control of medicinal products [1].\r\nThe efficacy and safety of a medicinal product can be assured by analytical monitoring of its quality. It is important that analytical procedure proposed of a particular active ingredient or its dosage form should be systematically sound under the condition in which it is to be applied. \r\nParkinson\'s disease: Parkinson\'s disease is a neurodegenerative disease affecting the substantia nigra, a component of the basal ganglia. The substantia nigra has a high quantity of dopaminergic neurons, which are nerve cells that release the neurotransmitter known as dopamine. When dopamine is released, it may activate dopamine receptors in the striatum, which is another component of the basal ganglia. When neurons of the substantia nigra deteriorate in Parkinson\'s disease, the striatum no longer properly receives dopamine signals. As a result, the basal ganglia can no longer regulate body movement effectively and motor function becomes impaired. By acting as an agonist for the D2, D3, and D4 dopamine receptors, pramipexole may directly stimulate the under functioning dopamine receptors in the striatum, thereby restoring the dopamine signals needed for proper functioning of the basal ganglia.\r\nPramipexole (Mirapex, Mirapexin, Sifrol) is a non-ergoline dopamine agonist indicated for treating early-stage Parkinson\'s disease (PD) and restless legs syndrome (RLS). It is also sometimes used off-label as a treatment for cluster headache and to counteract the problems with sexual dysfunction experienced by some users of the selective serotonin reuptake inhibitor (SSRI) antidepressants. Pramipexole has shown robust effects on pilot studies in a placebo-controlled proof of concept study in bipolar disorder. It is also being investigated for the treatment of clinical depression and fibromyalgia [2,3].\r\nPramipexole dihydrochloride [4] is chemically (S)-2-amino 4, 5, 6, 7-tetra hydro -6-(propylamino) benzothiazole dihydrochloride. It is a non-ergot dopamine receptor agonist used for symptomatic treatment of Parkinson,s disease. Pre-clinical studies reveal that nano molar concentrations of Pramipexole protect dopaminergic neurons invitro or invivo by a receptor-dependent pathway mediated by the high selectivity of the drug for D3-receptors. At higher concentrations, the drug has been shown to be neuroprotective invitro independent of the dopaminergic agonism [5]. Pramiprexole can be synthesized from a cyclohexanone derivative by the following route [6,7].\r\n \r\nMATERIAL AND METHODS\r\nA. Drug and reagents\r\nPure Pramipexole, Pramipexole impurity A, Pramipexole impurity B, Pramipexole Impurity D and Pramipexole impurity E was obtained as sample from Cipla ltd Research Laboratories (Mumbai, India). Analytical reagent (AR) grade Potassium phosphate and Octane 1-sulphone sodium salt was purchased from Fluka (Banglore, India) and Acetonitrile from sigma Aldrich (Mumbai, India). Water for HPLC studies was obtained from milipore water purifying system.\r\nB. Apparatus and equipment\r\nLC was carried out on Waters HPLC system (Model no. 2690) with photodiode array detector (Make-996). The output signal was monitored and processed using Empower software . In all the studies, separations were achieved on a peerless Basic AQ C18 (250 mm x 4.6 mm i.d., particle size 5 µm) procured from LCGC (Banglore, INDIA). Other small equipment were PCI sonicator (22L500/CC/DTC made in), precision analytical balance (Mettler Toledo, Schwerzenbach, Switzerland).\r\nC. Chromatographic conditions\r\nThe separation was achieved using Isocratic program of solution A (i.e Solution A used Contains Buffer prepared as by dissolved 4.5 gm of potassium phosphate and 2.0 gm of 1-Octane sulphonate sodium salt in to 2000 ml of water and pH adjusted to 3.0 with diluted orthophosphoric acid): and Solution B is Acetonitrile in the ratio of 70:30 v/v. the flow rate was set at 1.0 ml/min and column was maintained at 40oC. The injection volume was set 5µl and detector was set at a wavelength of 254 nm. \r\nD. Preparation of sample during method development and Validation\r\nThe diluent was selected for dissolving pramipexole and its impurities was mixture of buffer and Acetonitrile (in ration of 70:30 v/v). Standard solution of pramipexole was prepared in diluent having concentration of 0.2 mg/ml . pramipexole sample solution was prepared in the concentration of 0.2 mg/ml and injected. \r\nE. Preparation of Resolution solution\r\nPreparation of impurity stock solution: Weighed 1.5 mg of each Pramipexole impurity standard (Pramipexole impurity A, Pramipexole impurity B, Pramipexole Impurity D and Pramipexole impurity E) into 10 ml of volumetric flask added 7 ml of diluent sonicated to dissolved and diluted to volume with diluent. (concentration of each impurity is 150 µg/ml). \r\nWeighed 20 mg of pramipexole standard and into this added 1 ml of impurity stock solution into 100 ml of volumetric flask added 70 ml of diluent sonicated to dissolved and diluted to volume with diluent. ( Standard concentration is 200 µg/ml and each impurity concentration is 1.5 µg/ml) \r\nStandard Preparation: Weighed 20 mg of pramipexole standard into 100 ml of volumetric flask added 70 ml of diluent sonicated to dissolved and diluted to volume with diluent. (Standard concentration is 200 µg/ml) \r\nSample Preparation: Weighed sample equivalent to 20 mg of pramipexole into 100 ml of volumetric flask added 70 ml of diluent sonicated to dissolved and diluted to volume with diluent. (Sample concentration is 200 µg/ml) \r\nMETHOD DEVELOPMENT AND COLUMN SELECTION \r\nChemical structure of Pramipexole, Pramipexole impurity A, Pramipexole impurity B, Pramipexole Impurity D and Pramipexole impurity E are shown in (fig.1 to 4). The sample of Pramipexole procured from market which was selected for validation studies. Different mobile phase and stationary phases were employed to developed a suitable LC method for the quantitative determination of Pramipexole in their respective formulations. A number of column containing various packing materials such as waters symmetry C18 (150 x 4.6mm, 5.0µm), phenomenex luna C18 (250 x 4.6mm, 5.0µm), Inertsil ODS (250 x 4.6mm, 5.0µm) supplied by different manufacturers and different mobile phase composition such as Phosphate buffer, acetonitrile and methanol (50:25:25 v/v/v), Phosphate buffer, acetonitrile and methanol (50:30:20 v/v/v), 0.1% Phosphate buffer in water: Acetonitrile and Methanol(70:15:15 v/v/v) were tried to get good peak shapes and selectivity for the impurities present in pramipexole. The separation was achieved using isocratic program of Buffer (A Buffer prepared as by dissolved 4.5 gm of potassium phosphate and 2.0 gm of 1-Octane sulphonate sodium salt in to 2000 ml of water and pH adjusted to 3.0 with diluted orthophosphoric acid): Acetonitrile. The method was optimized based on the peak shapes and resolution of Pramipexole (fig. 1), Pramipexole impurity A (fig.-2), Pramipexole impurity B (fig.-3), Pramipexole Impurity D (fig. 4) and Pramipexole impurity E (fig. 5) and for resolution chromatogram refer fig. 6.\r\nRESULTS AND DISCUSSION\r\nA. Method validation \r\nSpecificity: Specificity is the ability to assess unequivocally the analyte in the presence of components, which may be expected to be present. Assuring specificity is the first step in developing and validating a good method. If specificity is not assured, method accuracy, precision and linearity all are seriously compromised. Method specificity should be reassessed continually during validation and subsequent use of the method.\r\nLinearity: Linearity of the method was checked by preparing solutions at five concentration levels of 100 ppm (Level 1) to 300 ppm (Level 5) for Pramipexole. Level 1 and level 5 was injected six times were as level 2 to level 4 was injected two times. The mean responses recorded for each analyte were plotted against concentration. The correlation coefficient for pramipexole was found to be 1.00, which indicates good linearity. \r\nSystem and method precision: The system for the impurities in Pramipexole was checked. The sample was prepared by dissolving tablets in diluent of target analyte concentration and injected six times. The %RSD was found to be less than 2.0% for system precision. \r\nTo determine the method precision six independent solutions were prepared with respect to target analyte concentration. Each solution was injected once. The variation in the results for the two analytes were expressed in terms of % RSD. The values calculated were found to be below 2.0% RSD for analytes, indicating satisfactory method precision. The results are shown in Table 2. \r\nStability in analytical solution: A solution of Pramipexole was prepared and kept at room temperature. This solution was injected at intervals of 0, 2, 4, 8, 12, 16, 20 and 24hr. Area of all the Analytes were nearly identical to that obtained at 0h and additional peaks were not observed which indicate solution stability. The results are shown in Table 3.\r\n \r\nSample preparation of Pramipexole for routine analysis: Weighed 10 tablets of mireapex (containing 10 mg of pramipexole) sample in 50 ml volumetric flask, dissolved in diluents and dilute up the volume with diluents. Injected this solution into HPLC to determine the amount of analyte present in the sample. The chromatogram obtained after the analysis was shown in (fig. 7). \r\n \r\n','M.H. Patil* and M.D. Rokade* (2013). Determination of Assay Evaluation of Pramipexole in Parkinsone’s Disease by RP-HPLC Method. Biological Forum – An International Journal 5(1): 78-83.'),(4493,'121','Contribution of Aedes aegypti Breeding by Different Income Group Communities of Dehradun city, Uttarakhand, India','Sundar Singh, Vandna and Abdul Rahman','13 SUNDER SINGH.pdf','',1,'Entomological survey was carried out in different income group communities of selected localities in Dehradun, Uttarakhand during January to December 2012 with a view to study the prevalence, distribution and stratification of areas for Aedes mosquito species. In HIG colony HI were above the critical level during August and September and BI were during June, September and October indicating the risk of dengue outbreak in transmission season.\r\n In all the localities surveyed the plastic containers were maximum followed by tin containers, earthen pots, desert coolers and cement tanks. In LIG colony earthen pots were less in number (19.91%) but it forms highest positive breeding containers for Aedes mosquitoes but in MIG colony desert coolers were the most preferred breeding container. In HIG colony plastic and tin containers were the primary breeding containers but the desert coolers and discarded tyres were the most preferred breeding containers and contributing maximum for the breeding of Aedes aegypti. \r\n','Entomological, Aedes mosquitoes, Haemorrhagic, Uttarakhand','Entomological survey was carried out in different income group communities of selected localities in Dehradun, Uttarakhand during January to December 2012 with a view to study the prevalence, distribution and stratification of areas for Aedes mosquito species. In HIG colony HI were above the critical level during August and September and BI were during June, September and October indicating the risk of dengue outbreak in transmission season.\r\n In all the localities surveyed the plastic containers were maximum followed by tin containers, earthen pots, desert coolers and cement tanks. In LIG colony earthen pots were less in number (19.91%) but it forms highest positive breeding containers for Aedes mosquitoes but in MIG colony desert coolers were the most preferred breeding container. In HIG colony plastic and tin containers were the primary breeding containers but the desert coolers and discarded tyres were the most preferred breeding containers and contributing maximum for the breeding of Aedes aegypti. \r\n','Dengue fever/dengue haemorrhagic fever (DF/DHF) is a serious arbo-viral infection spread by Aedes aegypti and Aedes albopictus mosquitoes. More than 50 outbreaks of dengue have been reported in different parts of the country (Halstead, 1980; WHO, 2003). Ae. aegypti is the main vector species of DF/DHF in India and is common in most of the urban areas on account of deficient water management, presence of non degradable tyres and long-lasting containers, plastic containers as well as increasing urban agglomerations and inability of the public health community to mobilize the population to respond to the need to eliminate mosquito breeding sites. That is, Ae. aegypti breeds almost entirely in man-made water receptacles found in and around households, construction sites, factories etc.\r\n About 40% of the global population is living in the areas where transmission of dengue occurs. An estimated 50 million dengue infections, including 5,00,000 cases of DHF that require hospitalization every year (WHO, 2003). Ae. aegypti is prevalent in varying densities in North, North-east and central India ( Kalra et al.,1997).\r\n\r\n\r\n In Uttarakhand the outbreak of dengue was reported for the first time in August, 2009 and confirmed by the Department of health service, Govt. of Uttarakhand from town Lal Kuwan district Nainital. During 2010 a major outbreak of dengue was reported in many districts of Uttarakhand. The total positive cases were 4140 with 8 deaths. Out of 4140, highest cases were reported from Dehradun (2889) with 2 deaths. Dengue infections are now well established in Dehradun. The prevailing climatic conditions, environmental pollution, rapid urbanization, overcrowding and careless human practices are proving conductive for the rapid breeding of Aedes mosquitoes.\r\nMATERIAL AND METHODS \r\n The site selected for the present study is the Doon valley in district Dehradun geographically lies between 29055’ and 30030’ N latitude, and 77035’ & 78020’ E longitude. An entomological investigation was carried out in three different income group communities of Dehradun viz., lower income group (LIG) colony, Middle income group (MIG) colony and Higher income group (HIG) colony from January to December 2012 in randomly selected localities as per the standard techniques (WHO, 2003). \r\n \r\n Singh, Vandna and Rahman 97\r\n \r\n A door to door survey was carried out in houses and peri-domestic area to detect Aedes breeding with a view to study the prevalence, distribution etc. All kinds of breeding habitats in the study areas like unused wells, tree holes, iron drums, discarded iron OHTs, tubs, tanks, overhead tanks, iron/metal drums, plastic containers (tubs/ drums/ tanks, plastic containers tea cups), empty battery box, junk materials, desert coolers, discarded tyres, curing tanks, daubers, etc (flower pots, junk materials, broken glass wares, bottles and broken plastic containers wares) were screened for the presence of immature stages of Aedes mosquitoes. \r\n The data on larval survey were analyzed and calculated in terms of container index (CI), House index (HI) and Breteau index (BI) as per WHO (2003) guidelines. The container preferences of Ae. aegypti breeding were assessed by calculation of Breeding preferences ratio (BPR) as suggested by Sharma (2002). Adult Aedes mosquitoes were collected with the help of aspirator and flashlight during morning hours (0800-1000 hrs) from tyres, cement tanks, iron pipes, etc and is identified with the help of standard identification keys (Das and Kaul, 1998).\r\nRESULTS AND DISCUSSION\r\nThe result revealed that all type of communities in selected localities spread over Dehradun city were found positive for Ae. aegypti mosquitoes. Breeding of Aedes mosquitoes was observed in all kinds of temporary and permanent water bodies both indoor and outdoor in residential areas. It is evident from the table 1 that Aedes breeding was detected during April to October in LIG and MIG colony. In HIG colony breeding occurs during March to November. No breeding could be detected during November to March in LIG and MIG colony but in HIG colony from December to February. The house index was above 10% in the transmission months August and September in MIG colony and in June to September in HIG colony. The house index in LIG colony was below 10% in all the months. The reason can be attributed to the water storage practices among different communities. Similarly BI in LIG and MIG colony were below critical level (i.e. 20) while it is higher during June (20), September (32) and October (24) in HIG colony. The house index recorded during the study period was less than the critical index but the presence of all type of containers in selected localities can be source of Aedes breeding and if proper control measures are not taken the indices can be above the critical index of 10%, indicating impending outbreak.\r\n In LIG colony according to their need containers were emptied frequently and fresh water was filled daily, whereas in MIG and HIG colony there was a habit of storing water in containers as there was intermittent water supply thus increasing the potential for Aedes breeding.\r\nIn LIG colony the maximum number of wet containers were plastic containers (32.66%) followed by tin containers (28.62%), earthen pots (19.91%), cement tanks (8.08%), Iron drums (3.73%), discarded tyres (2.49%), and desert coolers (2.18%) respectively. Out of the total positive containers the main containers positive for Aedes breeding were earthen pots (51.06%) followed by discarded tyres (12.77%), plastic containers, desert coolers (8.51%), tin containers (6.38%), Iron drums, cement tanks and others (4.26%). Earthen pots were found to be more preferred containers for Aedes breeding. Other containers positive for Aedes breeding were discarded tyres, desert coolers, iron drums, plastic, tine containers and cement tanks respectively (Table 2).\r\n \r\n Singh, Vandna and Rahman 98\r\n \r\nIn MIG colony the maximum numbers of wet containers were tin containers (31.86%), followed by plastic containers (21.24%), cement tanks (14.16%), earthen pots (12.39%), desert coolers (10.91%) and Iron drums (5.31%). Out of the total positive containers the main containers positive were cement tanks (24.24%), followed by desert coolers (21.21%), earthen pots and plastic containers (12.12%). Cement tanks were found to be the more preferred containers for Aedes breeding followed by desert coolers, earthen pots/plastic containers. Besides other containers positive for Aedes breeding were iron drums, others (9.09%), discarded tyres and tin containers (6.06%) Table 2. \r\n \r\n\r\n• Figure in parenthesis indicate percentage\r\n\r\n \r\n In HIG colony the maximum number of wet containers were plastic containers (31.20%) followed by coolers (20.33%), tin containers (18.38%), earthen pots (11.70%), cement tanks (8.91%), tyres and iron drums (4.46%) respectively. Out of the total positive containers the main containers positive were desert coolers (24.59%) followed by discarded tyres (19.67%), earthen pots and cement tanks (14.75%), tin containers (11.48%), and plastic containers (8.20%). Desert coolers, discarded tyres, earthen pots and cement tanks were found to be more preferred containers for Aedes breeding. Similar results were found by Kumar Sarita et al. (2009) at Varanasi city, Uttar Pradesh and Rakesh Katyal and Kumar Sarita (2010) in NCT town Gurgaon, Haryana. In contrary to the present study, in Ranchi (Singh et al., 2008) and Koderma Jharkhand (Singh et al., 2011) major breeding sites of Aedes were found in discarded tyres (43.38% and 47.51%) followed by junk materials, cemented tanks, plastic drums/tanks/tubs etc.\r\n In all the localities surveyed the plastic containers were maximum followed by tin containers, earthen pots, Desert coolers and cement tanks. However, coolers were in very less number in LIG colony but out of the total searched, 8.51 % were positive for Aedes breeding but In MIG desert coolers were the most preferred breeding container. In HIG colony plastic and tin containers were the primary breeding containers but the desert coolers and discarded tyres were the most preferred breeding containers and contributing maximum for the breeding of Aedes aegypti as the breeding from the primary containers.\r\nJust contrast to the finding of present study Kumar et al. (2008) observed that most preferred containers for Aedes in Tanakpur (district Champawat) were the cement tanks followed by tyres and tin containers while the result of the present study are similar with the study made by Singh et al., (2010) at Lal Kuwan town of District Nainital, who found among all the habitats, highest positivity of Aedes larvae was in earthen pots followed by plastic drums/tanks/tubs, discarded tyres, plastic containers and desert coolers.\r\nBalakrishnan et al. (2006) observed that water containers which were kept indoor were rarely cleaned and remain undisturbed most of the time, thus resulting in high breeding of Aedes mosquitoes and water storage habits were found as one of the factors responsible for high Aedes breeding.\r\nThe disease is closely associated with poor environmental sanitation, inferior housing and inadequate water supplies but in the present study it has been observed that the high income group is contributing more for the breeding of Aedes aegypti the vector of dengue and ckikungunya.\r\nThere is a need for proper surveillance followed by health education for effectively checking the rise in Aedes breeding vis a vis dengue transmission.\r\n','Sundar Singh, Vandna and Abdul Rahman (2013). Contribution of Aedes aegypti Breeding by Different Income Group Communities of Dehradun city, Uttarakhand, India. Biological Forum – An International Journal 5(1): 96-99. '),(4494,'121','Rhopalocera Diversity (Lepidoptera) of District Kupwara from Jammu and Kashmir State (India)','Aijaz Ahmad Qureshi, R.C. Bhagat and P.C. Pathania','14 DR PC PATHANIA.pdf','',1,'The survey-cum-collection tour were undertaken in the Kupwara district of J&K from 2007-2009 to know the butterfly fauna of the area, highlighting their month wise distribution, seasonal distribution, and flight period and other bio-ecological components. Thirty six species of butterflies belongs to 8 families and 30 genera were collected. The butterfly activity was observed from March to November and the highest abundance was in summer season (June-August) whereas there was no butterfly activity in winter (December-February). The most dominant family was Nymphalidae followed by Pieridae, Satyridae and Lycaenidae. Highest distribution was observed in habitats like forests, hilly areas, gardens near forests in areas like Batpora (Magam), Drugmulla, Karnah, Langate, Lolab Valley, Mawar, Panzgam, Rajwar, Trehgam, and Villgam. The other floral and faunal elements of the area need to be studied so that the biodiversity of the area can be compiled and documented. ','Abundance, butterflies, distribution, Kupwara ','The present field investigations revealed that district Kupwara is rich in both floral and faunal wealth including butterflies. However its biological diversity has not been documented till date. We cannot conclude whether the butterfly fauna of the area is increasing or decreasing. The area needs to be continuously monitored and efforts be made to document its unknown floral and faunal wealth and there is essential need to have a vision document on the sustainable development of the district with care and focus on documentation and conservation of its rich biodiversity. \r\nPresently, 36 species belonging to 30 genera of 8 families of butterflies were collected. The butterfly activity was observed from March to November and the highest abundance was in summer season (June-August) whereas there was no butterfly activity in winter (December-February). The most dominant family was Nymphalidae followed by Pieridae, Satyridae and Lycaenidae. Highest distribution was observed in habitats like forests, hilly areas, gardens near forests in areas like Batpora (Magam), Drugmulla, Langate, Lolab Valley, Mawar, Panzgam, Karnah, Rajwar, Trehgam, and Villgam. The other floral and faunal elements of the area need to be studied so that the biodiversity of the area can be compiled and documented. \r\n','District Kupwara was in carved out as a separate district from the erstwhile district Baramulla in July 1979. Situated at an average height of 5300 feet (above sea level) with geographical area of 2379 sq kms (Anonymous, 1999), it is located about 90 kilometers from Srinagar in the north-east corner of Kashmir Valley at 34.3 to 35.5 degree latitude in the north and 73.4 to 74.9 degree longitude in the east (Fig. 1). This socio-economic backward district consists of 377 census villages, comprising of two Municipal Committees, three Tehsils and eleven Community Development Blocks with many areas like Machil, Teethwal, Keran, Karnah etc situated on Line of Control (LoC). Kishanganga is the important river originating from Himalayan range, flows through the outer north-east areas of the district from east to west. It passes through Keran and Teetwal areas and finally merges with river Jhelum at Domail in Muzzafarabad (Anonymous, 2001). \r\n \r\n\r\nThe district with varied topography possesses rich forests with 1500 sq kms of forest land having deodar, elm, fir, forest products, kail, medicinal herbs, minerals, pine, etc in abundance and provide favourable environment for many faunal elements like birds (Bulbul, Crows, Doves, Pigeons, Sparrows, Swallows, Vultures, Wild cock, Wild duck, Woodpecker), and mammals (Black Bear, Fox, Jackal, Markhore, Monkeys, Musk Deer, etc). The district produces fruits, rice, wheat, oil seeds, vegetables, maize, pulses, honey, walnuts in good quantity and agriculture is backbone of the economy (Anonymous, 2009). The district is famous for many beautiful valleys, health resorts, tourist spots, springs, mountains, passes etc like BangusValley, Lolab Valley, Chokibal, Chandigam, Reshwari, Nazi Nag, Trehgam Nag, ZatiShah Nag, Kazi Nag mountain, Tumar pass, etc (Anonymous, 2001). Known by their beautiful colours and graceful flight, butterflies are the most abundant group of insects on the earth (Khan et al., 2004). They are one of the important food chain components of many organisms and being good indicators of environmental quality they are regarded as indicator taxa (Sathe et al., 2004). In spite of being rich and diverse in biodiversity, the floral & faunal part including butterflies of this area is still untouched, poorly documented & studied and unexplored. The baseline study was conducted to know the butterfly fauna of this border district for the first time. \r\nMETHODOLOGY\r\nField observations were made during the years March 2007 – November 2009 in different areas/places (like Batpora, Drugmulla, Handwara, Karnah, Khanpora, Langate, Lolab, Magam, Mawar, Nelipora, Panzgam, Rajwar, Trehgam, Villgam, and Vodhpora) with varied habitats like gardens, hilly areas, parks, mountains, forests, orchids, vegetable areas, open fields, agricultural areas and other cultivated avenues in district Kupwara. Butterflies were collected by Insect Collecting Net and killed with the help of vapours of ethyl acetate. The specimens of the collected butterflies have been deposited in the P.G. department of Zoology, University of Kashmir, Srinagar & are also with first author. (Evans, 1932, Talbot, 1939, 1947, Wynter-Blyth, 1957, Haribal, 1992, Kunte, 2006, Pajni et al., 2006; Kehimkar, 2010) were followed For identification. \r\nRESULTS AND DISCUSSION\r\nDuring the course of present field investigations, 36 species of butterflies distributed under 8 families viz., Danaidae, Hesperiidae, Libytheidae, Lycaenidae, Nymphalidae Papilionidae, Pieridae and Satyridae of \r\n\r\n30 genera have been reported. The detail list of family, name of species and their common name, flight period and habitat is provided (Table 1). \r\n Nymphalidae was found to be the most dominant (36%) family represented by (11 genera, 13 species), followed by Pieridae (22%) (6 genera, 8 species), Satyridae (17%) (5 genera, 6 species), Lycaenidae (11%) (4 genera, 4 species), and Papilionidae (5%) (1 genus, 2 species), whereas Danaidae (3%), Hesperiidae (3%), Libytheidae (3%) were represented by 1 genus and 1 species each (Fig. 2). \r\nThe present study revealed that Aglais cashmirensis (Nymphalidae) and Pieris brassicae (Pieridae) were the first to emerge (from March) and Pelopidas mathias (Hesperiidae) was the most late arrival emerging in the month of June. The peak butterfly activity was observed in the months of June, July, August, and September incorporating all the 8 families under 30 genera, covering 36 species. The highest butterfly diversity was in summer season (Table 2), however there was no butterfly activity during the winter season i.e., in the months of January, February and December (Table 3). The overall butterfly activity was observed from March to November from 7.30 am to 7.00 pm, depending upon weather, month, season, host-plants, temperature and type of the species concerned. \r\nFour species i.e., Aglais cashmirensis, Colias electo fieldi, C. erate and Pieris brassicae were found in all the months surveyed during the present observations. The widely prevalent genera/ species included Hesperiidae (Pelopidas mathias), Lycaenidae (Aricia agestis, and Lycaena phlaeas), Nymphalidae (Aglais cashmirensis and Cynthia cardui), Pieridae (Colias electo fieldi, C. erate, Pieris brassicae and Pontia daplidice). Species like Aporia leucodice, Argyreus hyperbius, Aulocera brahminus, A. padma, Callerebia mani, Childrena childreni, Danauas chrysippus, Eurema hecabe Gonepteryx rhamni, Hypolimnas missipus, Issoria gemmata, I. lathonia, Junonia orithya, J. iphita, Kaniska canace, Lampides boeticus, Libythea lepita, Maniola pulchella, Melanitis phedima, Neptis hylas, Papilio machaon, P. arcturus, Pararge everesmanni cashmirensis, Phalanta phalanta, Pieris canidia Rapala nissa and Vanessa indica showed restricted distribution. Species such as Argyreus hyperbius, Childrena childreni, Colias erate, Cynthia cardui, Danaus chryssipus, Gonepteryx rhamnni, Hypolimnas missipus, Issoria lathonia, Papilio machaon, P. arcturus, Phalanta phalanta and Vanessa indica were witnessed to be the quick fliers in which Callerebia mani was the most shy species while as Papilio arcturus was the quickest one. \r\nSpecies abundance was found highest in habitats like orchids/gardens near forests, dense forests, vegetable gardens, mountain areas, etc in areas like Batpora (Magam), Drugmulla, Karnah, Langate, Lolab Valley, Mawar, Panzgam, Rajwar, Trehgam, Villgam and Vodhpora. \r\nMany species were found to act as pests of various fruits/vegetables like Rapala nissa on Punica granatum (Pomegranate), Pieris brassicae, Pieris canidia, Pontia daplidice, and Pelopidas mathias on Brassica oleracea var. capitata (Cabbage), B. o. var. botrytis (Cauliflower), B. o. var. gongylodes (Knolkhol), and Rhaphanus sativus (Raddish)). Our observations match with those of (Atwal & Dhaliwal, 1999, Dar et al., 2002). Aglais cashmirensis, Colias electo fieldi, C. erate, Cynthia cardui, Pieris brassicae and Pontia daplidice were found in almost all the habitats from low-land to high-altitude areas surveyed during the present investigations. Aporia leucodice, Argyreus hyperbius, Aulocera brahminus, A. padma, Callerebia mani, Childrena childreni, Danauas chrysippus, J. iphita, Kaniska canace, P. arcturus were restricted to forest areas. \r\n','Aijaz Ahmad Qureshi, R.C. Bhagat and P.C. Pathania (2013). Rhopalocera Diversity (Lepidoptera) of District Kupwara from Jammu and Kashmir State (India). Biological Forum – An International Journal 5(1): 100-106 .'),(4495,'121','Macroptilium atropurpureum (Fabaceae), A New Record for Gujarat State','Minal Jani*, Sandip Kumar Patel ** and Arpit Deomurari*','15 MINAL GJ.pdf','',1,'Macroptilium atropurpureum (Moç. & Sessé ex DC.) Urb., is earlier known only from Delhi, North India and Maharashtra in Western India is recorded for the first time from the Gujarat State. A detailed description and a photograph are provided. ','Macroptilium atropurpureum, New Record, Gujarat','Macroptilium atropurpureum (Moç. & Sessé ex DC.) Urb., is earlier known only from Delhi, North India and Maharashtra in Western India is recorded for the first time from the Gujarat State. A detailed description and a photograph are provided. ','Macroptilium (Benth.) Urb. a tropical American genus, introduced and cultivated elsewhere; represented by c. 20 species, of which 2 species are so far reported from India (Sanjappa, 1992). During recent field visits in backyard of FES Campus, Anand district in Gujarat, India, the authors have collected specimens of a species of this genus. On critical examination and perusal of literature (Patel, 1971; Shah, 1978; Raghavan et al., 1981; Shetty et al., 1987; Singh et al., 2000; Sanjappa, 1922), it was identified as Macroptilium atropurpureum (Moç. & Sessé ex DC.) Urb., hitherto known from Delhi and Maharashtra. Therefore, the present collection is a new distributional record for Gujarat State.\r\nMacroptilium atropurpureum (Moç. & Sessé ex DC.) Urb. Symb. Antill. 9: 457 (1928); Sanjappa, Legumes of India 206 (1991). Phaseolus atropurpureus DC. Prodr. 2: 395 (1825).\r\nTwining or creeping perennial, ± densely hairy herbs. Stems rooting at the nodes, densely covered with fine retrorse hairs. Leaves pinnately 3-foliolate; leaflets 1.0–5.0 × 1.5–5.0 cm, broadly ovate or rhombic, the laterals often lobed on the outer side, pubescent above, silvery velvety beneath; petiole 0.5–5 cm long; \r\n\r\n\r\nstipules 4–5 mm long, ovate-acuminate, strongly veined. Inflorescences lax, 10–30 cm long, long-pedunculate, erect; bracteoles 2–3 mm long, linear. Calyx 7–8 mm long, tubular; lower lobes 2–3 mm long, narrowly triangular. Corolla 17–20 mm long; wings blackish-purple. Pod 6–9 × 0.3–0.4 cm, linear, beaked, densely appressed-pubescent, c.12–15-seeded. Seeds marbled brown and black, 4 mm long, oblong-ellipsoid, pitted.\r\nFlowering & Fruiting: February−May\r\nDistribution: Widely naturalized in Anand district of Gujarat state in disturbed habitat, most often in cultivated fields.\r\nSpecimens examined: SLP 1826, 1827 (Jahangirpura), 1828, 1829 (Khambhat).\r\nNote: In general appearance the species has grayish leaves, erect peduncles and looks generally like a very dark, almost black-flowered Vigna.\r\n','Minal Jani*, Sandip Kumar Patel ** and Arpit Deomurari* (2013). Macroptilium atropurpureum (Fabaceae), A New Record for Gujarat State. Biological Forum – An International Journal 5(1): 107-108. '),(4496,'121','Industrial Waste Threaten Environmental Quality of Jiong beel ','Dr. Dharma Ram Deka','16 DR DR DEKA ASSAM.pdf','',1,'The Digaru and the Kalong river basins of Assam are endowed with larger number of natural water bodies. These water bodies are locally known as ‘beel’. It’s maintain environmental quality of a region and support livelihood to thousands of people through fishing and collecting edible plants. The role of such wetlands in socio-economic condition of the people of their surroundings is very significant. With the increase of human population and technological development, a drastic change has been observed in the overall environment of the region. Encroachment, over fishing, solid and liquid waste disposal in such areas, various engineering structures constructed for different purposes are identified as some of the factors responsible for such changes. The cause and effect of such changes have been taken into account for understanding the present ecological set-up of the Jiong beel as well as to foresee the near future situation and has been analyzed here from geographical perspective. In the present investigation, Jiong beel of Dimoria have been identified for study as it witnessed various anthropogenic and other activities near the wetlands and it has tremendously impact on the environment of wetlands. ','Encroachment, over fishing, solid and liquid waste.','The Digaru and the Kalong river basins of Assam are endowed with larger number of natural water bodies. These water bodies are locally known as ‘beel’. It’s maintain environmental quality of a region and support livelihood to thousands of people through fishing and collecting edible plants. The role of such wetlands in socio-economic condition of the people of their surroundings is very significant. With the increase of human population and technological development, a drastic change has been observed in the overall environment of the region. Encroachment, over fishing, solid and liquid waste disposal in such areas, various engineering structures constructed for different purposes are identified as some of the factors responsible for such changes. The cause and effect of such changes have been taken into account for understanding the present ecological set-up of the Jiong beel as well as to foresee the near future situation and has been analyzed here from geographical perspective. In the present investigation, Jiong beel of Dimoria have been identified for study as it witnessed various anthropogenic and other activities near the wetlands and it has tremendously impact on the environment of wetlands. ','The Brahmaputra river valley is gifted with myriads of swampy areas which are commonly known as ‘beel’ (Jhingran & Pathak,1987). There is a world wide confusion about the definition of the wetlands. There are many definitions currently used in different disciplines according to their purposes. In the first meeting of the convention in Ramsar Iran, in 1971, it was stated that wetlands are the areas of marsh, fen, peatland or water, whether natural or artificial, permanent or temporary, with water that is static or flowing, fresh, brackish, or salt including areas of marine water, the depth of which at low tide does not exceed 6 meters (20 ft.). The marshes and swamps are generally known as ‘jalah’, ‘doloni’, ‘pitoni’, ‘doba’ or ‘hola’. Normally beel are represented vast sheets of water with varying shape, size and depth. The English word ‘wetland’ subsumes the swamps, bog, fens, lagoons, backwaters and marshylands under its broader connotation. In some areas the beels are often referred to as ‘gadeng’ (Sharma, 1993). The International Union for the Conservation of Nature and Natural Resources (IUCN, 1991) defined the wetlands as “all the submerged or water saturated lands, natural or man made, inland or coastal, permanent or \r\ntemporary, static or dynamic, vegetated or non-vegetated, which necessarily have a land water interface.” (William J. Mitsch and James G. Gosselink, 2000).\r\n The wetland help the mankind in various ways such as improvement of water quality, flood control, recharge and discharge of ground water, conservation of biodiversity and as economic resource by providing livelihood to the poorer section of the rural population. Besides, wetlands are always being considered as a main source of fish for the people of the surrounding areas. The wetlands play an important role in agriculture development as well as using for the natural water reservoirs during the dry session. Most of the wetlands are associated with the finer sense of the people as reflected in folk songs and folk stories.\r\nUnfortunately, these wetlands have been found degrading their environment due to the increase of human population and technological development. Excessive use of agro-chemicals in adjoining croplands, raising seasonal crops, overgrazing by cattle on the fringe areas, earth cutting, encroachment, over fishing, hunting and poaching in the wetlands, solid and liquid waste disposal, mushrooming of brick kilns, various engineering structures are constructed, responsible for such changes.\r\n \r\n Deka 110\r\n \r\nThe lower part of Digaru and Kalong river basin under the Kamrup (Metro) district of Assam found a large number of wetlands. Jiong is a small linear type of wetland under this study area. It is a narrow kind of channel popularly known as Jiong beel. The same beel it’s called by different name in different parts. At the upper parts of the beel is called Taranga, middle part is known as Jiong and lower part is called Itila beel. The main source of the Itila is Taranga or Elenga beel near Jagiroad. The Taranga is connected by Dhankhuli (a narrow channel) with Jiong. Jiong is connected with the Itila by another narrow beel called Hahchara. From Jiong, wetland is following parallely with the Kalong river and meet with same river near Bogibari village name as Itila.\r\nMATERIALS AND METHODS\r\nWater and soil sample were collected and mixed them to make a composite representative sample. Necessary care was taken to prevent contamination of the samples during transportation to the laboratory, storage and analysis as per the guidelines of model used for water and soil quality test. The water samples were collected in post monsoon season, 2008 (November). The samples were collected to the laboratory for physical and chemical analysis. The parameters for water quality study are temperature, pH, total solids (TS), total suspended solids (TSS), total dissolved solids (TDS), turbidity, hardness and electrical conductivity (EC), dissolved oxygen (DO), biological oxygen demand (BOD), chemical oxygen demand (COD), chloride, sulphate, nitrate, phosphorous and metal as compounds of metals of potassium, calcium, sodium, iron, magnesium, copper, zinc, cadmium, manganese, nickel, lead, \r\nselenium etc. For water quality test APHA-1998 model, for Electrical Conductivity ELICO LIS-120P, India Model, for Sodium and Potassium- HITSCHI-P210, India and for metals test PERKIN ELMEIR-2380 Model were used. Soil samples was collected during winter season 2008 and for the soil sample analysis same models had been used.\r\nRESULTS AND DISCUSSION\r\nA few parameters are selected for the assessment of water quality of the beel. The pH value recorded in the Jiong is 6.3 (Table 1). The turbidity levels of the water found to be higher than the permissible limit as reflected in the water samples of Jiong (41.2 NTU). The Potable Water the pH permissible limit is 7.0-8.5 and excessive 8.5-9.2(World Health Organization, 1971).\r\nThe higher turbidity makes the water unfit for domestic purposes, food and food processing industries etc. It is worth mentioning that wetland Jiong is connecting Nagaon paper mill with Taranga by the narrow channel Dhankhuli. The waste materials carried by them from the mill and discharge it in Kalong river through Jiong and Itila beel.\r\nDissolved oxygen (DO) is one of the most important components for the aquatic community. The saturation value of DO varies from 8-15mg/l. For active fish species (Trout and Salmon) 5-8mg/l of DO is required whereas less desirable species like carp can survive at 3.0mg/l of DO (Kaushik & Kaushik,2004). The low level DO in wetlands adversely affected the fish and other aquatic life. The permissible limit of DO is 3.0mg/l (max) according to Board of industries. The DO value in the Jiong was recorded 3.5mg/l.\r\nCOD values play an important role for assessment of organic matter in water. The COD was recorded in Jiong beel 142mg/l. The high COD is due to the presence of high concentration of both biodegradable and non-biodegradable pollutant in them. \r\nThe higher concentration of chlorides, nitrates, phosphates, sulphates in pond and wetlands is due to the use of inorganic fertilizers found to be responsible for high value of COD in the samples. The permissible limit of COD is 250mg/l(max) according to the board of industries.\r\nBesides, values of other parameters are recorded as EC (670μs/cm-1), Hardness(111mg/l), TS(963mg/l), TSS(415mg/l), Mn(0.102 mg/l), Ni(0.018 mg/l), Pb(0.020 mg/l), Se(0.025 mg/l) (table-1and value of Cl(72.2 mg/l), SO42-( 57.0 mg/l), NO-3–N( 6.1 mg/l), PO43-( 0.53 mg/l) , NH4+ -N( 2.40 mg/l), k( 3.6 mg/l), Ca( 54 mg/l), Na( 9.4 mg/l), Fe( 4.6 mg/l), Mg( 21 mg/l), Cu( 0.010 mg/l), Zn( 5.6mg/l), Cd( 0.0018mg/l) is show in the Table-2.\r\nSoil quality of the Itila wetland was measured with digital pH meter (Eutech-356-c) of soil: H2O = 1:5 suspension. In this work a few parameters are selected for the analysis of the soil quality. \r\nThe wetlands soil of Dimoria region pH ranges from 4.9 to 8.61. The pH in the wetlands soils of the region found around 5.5, which indicates acidic soils of the wetland areas (Sharma, 1993). Acid are produced by humus and various soil organisms (Rayan and Garity, 1983). In the Jiong beel soil pH was recorded as 8.61 (Table 3). Higher value of pH was probably due to the impact of industrial effluents and urban sewage respectively from Nagaon Paper Mill and Jagiroad Town. Use of chemicals fertilizer in the littoral paddy field may also cause increase of soil pH in Jiong. The amount of OC is an indicator of high productivity of wetlands. Percentage of OC was 0.07 in Jiong. (Deka et al, 2009). Phosphorus concentration largely depends on soil pH. Phosphorus is very high in all the wetlands in the study area. High phosphorus concentration in the soil is the indicator of high productive capacity of fishes. The high concentration of phosphorus was recorded in Jiong (0.94 kg/h). \r\nThe other parameters considered for tests in the wetlands are Electrical Conductivity(EC), Sodium(Na), Potassium(K), Total Hardness, Total Nirogen (NO3-N), Chloride (Cl-), Iron (Fe), Copper (Cu), Zinc (Zn), Lead (Pb) etc. Sodium is recorded low in Itila (0.56mg/kg) Table 3 and 4. \r\nTotal Hardness of soil is Jiong 38.76/kg) in the region. Total Nitrogen is detected high in Jiong (0.239mg/kg). Lead was recorded (0.043mg/kg) in Jiong beel.\r\nThe natural environment of wetlands is threatened today by a variety of anthropogenic interventions. Wetlands of Assam have been polluted primarily from two sources - (i) Industrial effluents and municipal wastes and (ii) Agro-Chemicals (Bhyuan, 1987).\r\nNow, many of the wetlands in the study area have been degraded due to agricultural impacts, i.e. the chemical fertilizers and insecticides and also solid and liquid wastes of some of the industries. All these ultimately affected the wetland ecology and biodiversity scenario of the wetlands of the study area. As many as four wetlands of Dimoria received the solid and liquid waste disposal by the Nagaon Paper Mill. The Turbidity level of water is high of the Jiong beel. Drastic change of wetland water quality is recorded; perhaps extensive use of chemical fertilizers and insecticides is responsible for change of water quality in the fringe area. The unscientific construction of engineering structures viz. - roads cum bandh, sluice gate and RCC bridge over the Jiong cause deteriotion of the wetland environment. It was found that shallowness of wetland has been increasing. Shallowness of the Wetlands causes for widespread growth of aquatic macrophytes and it has been form a floating mat. Siltation is very high. Decomposition of the overcrowded macrophytes of different types, especially during the months of October and November causes mortality of fish and other aquatic life. Peoples of the surrounding villages used the wetland water suffered from various skin diseases and stomach problems. Bad smell is coming from the wetland water is adversely effect the people living in the surrounding. It was found that fish and other aquatic goods are unfit to feed. Water drink by the domestic animals are suffered from different diseases. Paddy fields are burn up place wise and production of rice has been decreasing. \r\nUndoubtedly, the Jiong is play an important role for the economic development and improve wetland environmental quality in the surrounding areas. Therefore, these wetlands need proper management. So that it can effectively contribute towards the economic growth of the surrounding villages. The concerned authority could take adequate steps to control the deteoration of water quality. To maintain the geo-ecological status of the wetlands, efforts should also be made to develop the water quality as effective natural floodwater detention basins so as to lower the flood heights and reduce the extent of inundation in the area. Appropriate conservational measure should be taken up in the catchments areas of the wetland, which may be preserved for biodiversity conservation. Based on a thorough evaluation of the existing status, using modern techniques like remote sensing and GIS, supplemented with detailed ground survey, a suitable environmental management strategy is to be evolved for these resourceful Jiong wetlands of the Dimoria region.\r\n','Dr. Dharma Ram Deka (2013). Industrial Waste Threaten Environmental Quality of Jiong beel. Biological Forum – An International Journal 5(1): 109-112. '),(4497,'121','Impact of Pollutants on Water Quality of River Sutlej in Nangal Area of Punjab, India','Bhagat S. Chauhan*and S.K. Sagar*','17 BHAGAT SINGH n.pdf','',1,'The present study involves physico-chemical analysis of water samples collected monthly from three sites near Nangal wetland for a period of one year. The main purpose of study is to provide baseline data regarding potability and self purification of water along the industrial belt. Hydrobiological parameters include water temperature, colour, turbidity or total suspended solids, total dissolved solids, pH, free CO2, DO, free ammonia, nitrates, phosphates, sulphates, BOD and population dynamics. The present investigations showed that water was crystal clear with high values of pH and DO at upstream Nangal dam (S1) while at effluent nallah of NFL (S2) has high values of BOD, free ammonia, nitrates, sulphates, chlorides, free CO2, turbidity, TDS, but low values of DO with more alkaline nature of wastewater. This site is mesosaprobic with eutrophic conditions. After confluence with NFL at (S3) all parameters were slightly beyond desirable limits may be due to self purification capacity of water. Water is not potable along downstream course but can be used for other activities. ','Pollutants, Physico-chemical dynamics, Pollution load, Water quality, Self purification.','The present study involves physico-chemical analysis of water samples collected monthly from three sites near Nangal wetland for a period of one year. The main purpose of study is to provide baseline data regarding potability and self purification of water along the industrial belt. Hydrobiological parameters include water temperature, colour, turbidity or total suspended solids, total dissolved solids, pH, free CO2, DO, free ammonia, nitrates, phosphates, sulphates, BOD and population dynamics. The present investigations showed that water was crystal clear with high values of pH and DO at upstream Nangal dam (S1) while at effluent nallah of NFL (S2) has high values of BOD, free ammonia, nitrates, sulphates, chlorides, free CO2, turbidity, TDS, but low values of DO with more alkaline nature of wastewater. This site is mesosaprobic with eutrophic conditions. After confluence with NFL at (S3) all parameters were slightly beyond desirable limits may be due to self purification capacity of water. Water is not potable along downstream course but can be used for other activities. ','In the present era of modernization there is advancement in every phase of industrialization which leads to generate pollutants from alteration of aquatic ecosystem. The wide array of pollutants discharged into aquatic environment may have physico-chemical, biological, toxic and pathogenic effects (Goel, 2000). The life of aquatic ecosystem is directly or indirectly depends on the water quality (Contreras et al., 2009). Water pollution is a major threat to human population and dumping of pollutants into water body resulted in rapid deterioration of water quality and effect the ecological balance in the long run. Sutlej is one of the major rivers in the Northern region of India. It starts providing water to run industrial units in Punjab after Bhakhra dam and also receives large quantity of wastewater from these industries as well as domestic wastes and sewage of Nangal city while its downstream course towards Ropar wetland. \r\nThe present study was undertaken to assess pollution load from point source near Nangal wetland in the laps of Shivalik foot hills. Attempt was made to understand the rate of dumping of pollutants and its impact on water quality of river which ultimately affect human, ecology and material.\r\nMATERIAL AND METHOD \r\nArea of Study: After preliminary survey of entire stretch of river Sutlej, initial point of water pollution near Nangal wetland was selected for present study as shown in map and photographs. The pollutants of different types especially from National Fertilizer Limited (NFL) were discharged into downstream course of river Sutlej at this place as three sampling sites were selected S1: upstream Nangal wetland, S2: on effluent nallah of NFL but after treatment plant and S3: downstream river Sutlej 2km after confluence with wastewater of NFL. Water samples were collected during the period of July, 2010 to June, 2011. \r\n\r\n \r\n\r\nPhysico-chemical analysis of water samples were done by using standard methods given in APHA (1998); Trivedy and Goel (1986). Physical and chemical parameters viz water temperature, pH, turbidity, TSS, TDS, colour, DO, free CO2, alkalinity, hardness, chlorides, BOD, free ammonia, nitrates, phosphates, sulphates were analyzed and compared with drinking water standards for various uses as prescribed by ISI, ICMR, CPCB and WHO.\r\nRESULT AND DISCUSSION\r\nSutlej river near Nangal wetland was particularly affected by a mild range of pollution owing to increased effluents of NFL as well as sewage disposal of city area. Results reported on physico-chemical factors are influenced by change in rainfall and seasonal variations in hydrology. It was found that inflow of freshwater altering water quality frequently in this foot hill zone with continuous discharge of pollutants into river basin. All parameters were well within desirable limits at S1 with crystal clear water having high values of DO (7.2-9.3 mg/L) and pH (8.0-8.7mg/L) but there was slight fluctuations in values of turbidity, hardness and alkalinity in monsoon period due to high rainfall and rocky silted surface run-off of water. \r\npH: pH of water is an important indication of its quality and provides information about various geochemical equilibrium. The large variation in pH of water was indicator of a high productivity of natural water (Sreenivasan, 1976). Higher value of pH is normally associated with high photosynthetic activity in water (Hujare, 2008) and natural waters are alkaline due to presence of sufficient quantities of carbonates (Trivedy and Goel, 1984). (Krishnaram et al., 2007), documented that pH range of 6.7 to 8.4 is considered to be safe for aquatic life to maintain productivity and pH below 4.0 and above 9.6 found hazardous to life. Higher value of pH (9.2-11.7mg/L) was observed at S2 throughout investigations. This may be due to presence of large quantity of black ash slurry produced from nitrogenous pollutants. Relatively low value of pH (6.2-7.7 mg/L) has been observed at S3 due to inflow of freshwater but it becomes acidic (4.5-5.0mg/L) in pre-monsoon period as shown in Fig.1.\r\nDissolved Oxygen: The effect of wastewater released in a water body largely determined by discharge of oxygen demanding waste and oxygen balance of the system. The exchange of oxygen across the air, water interface depends upon temperature, partial pressure of gases, solubility, photosynthetic activity of plant and respiration by bacteria, plants and animals in the water (Krishnaram et al., 2007). Temperature and salinity affect the dissolution of oxygen (Vijaya Kumar et al., 2000). The rate of oxidation of organic matter increases as oxygen get consumed and at higher temperature oxygen holding capacity of water decreases (Welch, 1952). High dissolved oxygen concentration observed during monsoon season may be due to cumulative effects of higher wind velocity joined with heavy rainfall and the resultant freshwater mixing (Sundaramanicham et al., 2008; Damotharan et al., 2010). \r\n \r\n\r\nAt suvaw Nala (Balrampur) dissolved oxygen ranged from 2.02 mg/L to 7.8 mg/L, the lowest value was found mainly because of industrial organic effluents as well as sewage load (Tripathi et al., 2008). As the concentration of dissolved oxygen deplete it imposes thrust on aquatic life. The DO ranged (3.0-9.3mg/L) during study period at three sites as shown in Fig.4. The maximum valuse of DO was noted at S1 during winter \r\nin the month of December, 2010; January, 2011 as there is constant aeration of water due to water currents generated at lotic terrain, low temperature, better illumination, low turbidity and free from impact of human activities. The low DO (3.0-4.2mg/L) at effluent nallah of NFL (S2) was estimated due to high organic sludge and nitrification. \r\n \r\n\r\nFree Carbondioxide: The amount of free CO2 in stagnant water is generally maintained by diffusion from atmosphere, respiration by animals along with plants and bacterial decomposition of organic matter (Misra et al., 1993). The CO2 content of water depends upon the water temperature, depth, rate of respiration, decomposition of organic matter, chemical nature of bottom and geographical features of the terrain surrounding the water body (Sakhare and Joshi, 2002). The high values of free CO2 ranged (55.43-78.32mg/L) has been recorded at S2. This may be due to decay of organic matter and presence of carbon as ash particles in wastewater.\r\nTotal Hardness: High value of hardness in summer season was mainly attributed due to rising temperature, increasing solubility of Ca++ and Mg++ salts (Garg, 2003). Hardness in water is derived from CO2 released in bacterial action and also by metabolic ions dissolved in wastewater. (Meshram, 2005) has noticed that hardness is essential for normal growth of aquatic ecosystem. (Krishnaram et al., 2008b) noted that calcium as cation causes water hardness in natural water and favors to zooplankton production, alkalinity and phosphate content of water body. The total hardness of Sutlej water was observed in the range (35.22-62.34mg/L) at S3 and (72.0-127.4mg/L) at S2 due to alkaline nature of wastewater. \r\n \r\n\r\nTotal Alkalinity: Alkalinity of natural water is generally due to presence of bicarbonates and it favors to zooplankton populations (Singh et al., 2002; Kiran et al., 2007).The high value of alkalinity indicates the presence of bicarbonate, carbonate, and hydroxide in the water body (Jain, 2000). pH has direct relationship with total alkalinity as reported by (Bharadwaj and Sharma, 1999). Total alkalinity was (69.70-118.40mg/L) at S1; (132.40-198.22mg/L) at S2 and (82.2-141.3mg/L) at S3. Maximum value of alkalinity was recorded in summer (May-June 2011) and minimum during monsoon (July-August 2010) in conformity with the findings of Sankar et al. (2002) who explained that during summer increased concentration of salts in water was due to evapouration. The values recorded during present investigations were above the permissible limit stipulated by ICMR (120 mg/L) especially at S2 throughout the year.\r\nWater Temperature: Temperature influences the growth and distribution of flora and fauna as it is the most variable factor of environment and play a vital role in chemical and biological activities. The excessive amount of nutrients in water bodies along with higher temperature favors the growth of algae and aquatic weeds (Welch, 1952). The range of variations recorded in hydrological factors has been depicted in table and also shown in graphs of most significant parameters. Surface water temperature ranged (28-37.5oC) during pre-monsoon and (15.2-18.0oC) during winter season. Water colour was blackish with white coloured fertilizer particles suspended at S2 while at S3 it was transparent. \r\nTurbidity: Turbidity a measure of water clarity is inversely proportional to penetration of light in water was ranged (15.7-23.3mg/L) at S2 and (7.5-20.0mg/L) at S3 while at S1 it was (4.5-11.2mg/L) as shown in Fig.2 Site S3 was found to be significantly turbid from July 2010 to September 2010 due to muddy silted water inflow from Gobindsagar reservoir while at S2 it may be due to presence of slurry of carbon ash and chalk granules in the form of mat at surface of wastewater. Suspended solids of fertilizer industry are of inorganic solids, they do not cause oxygen demand when discharged in receiving water. \r\n(Jain, 2000) reported that disposal of sewage and industrial effluents contribute suspended matter to the rivers. High value of turbidity reported during monsoon period was similar with results of Garg et al., (2006) and Upadhyay et al., (2010). Turbidity showed inverse relation with plankton production (Vasisht and Jindal, 1980).\r\nTotal Dissolved Solids: The total concentration of dissolved solids or ions in a water body found useful parameter in describing the chemical density as a fitness factor (Jhingran, 1982). Water with a high total dissolved solids indicated more ionic concentration which is of inferior palatability and can induce unfavourable physicochemical reactions in the consumers. Kataria et al., (1996) reported that increase in value of TDS indicate pollution by extraneous sources and adversely affects the quality of running water. High content of dissolved solids has elevated the density of water, influencing osmoregulation, reducing gas solubility and utility of water for drinking, irrigation and industries reported by (Edmondson, 1959 and Manivasakam, 2003). In present investigation slightly high values of TDS was reported at S2 (625-710 mg/L) may be due to use of raw water with high TDS, high temperature and alkaline nature of wastewater but TDS do not exceed normal limits at S3 during rainy season in conformity with findings of Verma and Saksena, (2010) while working on pollution status of river Kalpi, Gwalior. \r\nChlorides: The most important source of chloride in natural water is discharge of sewage and it play vital role in photophosphorylation reaction in autotrophs. Sreenivasan, (1665) documented that chloride concentration between 4-10 ppm indicates purity of water. Chlorides ranged (2.7-6.8mg/L) at S1 and (22.0-47.5mg/L) at S2 may be due to use of brine as raw material in the production of ammonium chloride and chlorinated effluent but at S3 it ranged nearly upto desirable limits (188.2-240.0 mg/L) due to directly discharge of city sewage and domestic waste.(Kamble and Sakhare, 2013) also reported maximum value of chlorides (411.8 mg/L) and indicated that site-I was contaminated due to organic content of sewage, agricultural wastes including fertilizers and discharge by surrounding area. \r\nBiochemical Oxygen Demand: Biochemical Oxygen Demand (BOD) is an index of organic pollution to measure the amount of DO required by microbial community in decomposing the organic matter present in a water sample by aerobic biochemical action (Boyd,2000). Singh and Rai (1999) observed that high BOD was indication of organic pollution in river Ganga at Varansi. Chavan et al., (2005) also observed the creek water of Thane Maharashtra and showed that high \r\nvalue of BOD was mainly due to entry of effluents from surrounding industries. In the present study, BOD was observed in between (5.0-6.3mg/L) at effluent nallah of NFL (S2) due to microbial activity of protozoan, rotifers, dipterans larvae and presence of algal blooms. High value of BOD between (2.0-6mg/L) was observed at S3 after mixing with wastewater from S2 and dumping of domestic waste and sewage as shown in Fig. 5.\r\nNitrates: Nitrates are formed in water due to oxidation of ammonia by bacterial action and their presence indicates that nitrogenous organic matter is under nitrification. The presence of little higher value in water is an indication of pollution in the river and will cause eutrophication as a nutrient, hence reducing water quality. Algal bloom and aquatic plant growth will reduce oxygen, pH, alkalinity, increases TSS, reduce penetration of light so less rate of photosynthesis but denitrification needs addition of biodegradable organic carbon in fertilizer industry. High level of nitrate in drinking water was due to excessive use of fertilizers in agriculture, decayed vegetable, animal matter, domestic effluents, sewage or sludge disposal, industrial discharges, leachable from refuse dumps, atmospheric washout and precipitation has become serious problem (Makhijani and Manoharan, 1999). Bhadauria (1997) \r\nreported nitrate in effluents from Mathura refinery that are ultimately poured into river Yamuna. Nitrates ranged (95-120.0 mg/L) at effluent nallah of NFL (S2) indicating eutrophic conditions throughout the year due to presence of nitrogenous based pollutants but at S3 it decreases to range (32.0-55.6 mg/L) as depicted in Fig. 4 in concurrence with the findings of Nath and Srivastava (2001) on river Narmada.\r\nFree Ammonia: Ammonia is produced by microbial activity of organic nitrogenous matter and its presence is mainly due to decaying plants, sewage, industrial discharge and fertilizer containing ammonia. High concentration of free ammonia (1.5 mg/L) is toxic to fish and aquatic biota. \r\n\r\nThe distribution of free ammonia is fluctuating and dependent on the pH and temperature of water. Average ammoniacal nitrogen content of effluent and sewage in a channel near Mathura refinery was 2.29 mg/L (Bhadauria, 1997). The security paper mill effluent at Nalaghat Hosangabad contained high concentration of free ammonia which may be harmful for aquatic animals reported by Nath and Srivastva, (2001). Begum \r\nand Harikrishna (2008) also observed high level of ammonia 15.2 mg/L at highly polluted zone of Cauvery river mainly due to anthropogenic activities and municipal sewage. Free ammonia content ranged (4.0-6.2 mg/L) at S2 due to residual content of fertilizer in liquid effluent along with alkaline pH and at S3 (0.75-1.2 mg/L) as shown in Fig.6.\r\nPhosphates: Phosphates act as nutrient for plant growth and high concentration of it is also an indication of eutrophy. Phosphates were only present at S3 in between 0.04-0.26 mg/L similar with the findings of Rai (1974) on river Yamuna at Delhi and Srivastva and Singh (1995) on river Ami.\r\nSulphates: The hydrobiology of river Beas was studied by Gill et al., (1993) and reported that phytoplankton were associated with increased level of sulphate, phosphate, bicarbonate, nitrite and alkalinity. Ghavzan et al., (2006) analyzed river Mutha in Pune city in relation to phytoplankton and also revealed that river developed eutrophication with high values of BOD, COD, chlorides, phosphates, nitrates, sulphates and CO2. Sulphates ranged at S2 (15.40-40.06 mg/L) and (4.6-7.5 mg/L) at S3 found to be within desirable limits of BIS and CPCB.\r\n\r\n\r\nPollution status and its impact:\r\nStudies on population dynamics of plankton in relation to physico-chemical characteristics was essential aspect of biomonitoring for evaluation of polluted habitat or water. Based upon saprobity index, prevailing conditions in the selected stretch of river Sutlej was estimated on the basis of BOD5 (organic pollution load) and Palmer’s Algal Index (Palmer, 1969). Pathogenic analysis indicates presence of coliforms at S2 only and rarely observed individuals of Hydropsyche at S1 while bioindicators of water pollution include phytoplankton : Coelastrum sp., Cladophora sp., Pinnularia sp., Cosmarium sp., Cymbella sp., Selenastrum sp., Spirulina sp., Spirogyra sp., Anabaena sp., Gyrosigma sp., and zooplankton : Bosmania sp., Gerris sp., Keratella sp., Notholca sp., Rantara sp., Daphania sp., Cyclops sp., Nauplius larvae, Alona sp., Macrothrix sp., Deronectes sp. And site S2 to be found tolerant to mesosaprobity. \r\nHence, water quality can be classified as A at S1 (u/s Nangal wetland); E at S2 (on Effluent nallah of NFL) and C-D at S3 (d/s Sutlej river after confluence) as per standards given by CPCB. River water was moderately polluted in Nangal area due to inflow of silted muddy water from hilly terrain, physico-chemical dynamics and frequently dumping of pollutants. On the basis of primarily study, it was apparent that water was not potable but can be used for propagation of wild life, fisheries and irrigation. \r\n','Bhagat S. Chauhan*and S.K. Sagar* (2013). Impact of Pollutants on Water Quality of River Sutlej in Nangal Area of Punjab, India. Biological Forum – An International Journal 5(1): 113-123. '),(4498,'121','Survey of Container Breeding Mosquito Larvae in Jalna City (M.S.) India','Kisan D. Thete* and Laxmikant V. Shinde*','18 DR KISHAN THETE.pdf','',1,'A survey on container breeding sites of mosquito larvae was conducted in the Jalna city. Survey was carried out during rainy season in June 2012 to December 2012.Sampling was carried out by dipping using pipette or dipper depending on container types. All breeding sources of mosquito larvae were examined different container types: indoor and outdoor i.e. plastic container, earthen pot, natural container, tiers, coconut shell, vase, can and concrete tank. Containers were identified as potential breeding sites. Survey was carried out in outdoors and indoors were found containing larvae. Among all types of containers of total surveyed containers were positive with mosquito larvae, followed by plastic containers, concrete tanks, vases, bottles, cans and earthen pots. A total of 1893 mosquito larvae were collected of which morphological identification of the larvae by use of microscopy yielded, we identified four species those of Aedes aegypti n = 1514 (79.98%), Aedes albopictus n = 9(1%), Culex quinquefasciatus n = 265(14%), Culex vishnui n = 95(5.02%). This study indicated that Aedes and Culex was capable of breeding in a wide range of container types. To control these mosquitoes, the elimination of artificial and natural containers or alteration of breeding sites in city should be taken into consideration.','Mosquito larvae, container, Aedes, Culex.','A survey on container breeding sites of mosquito larvae was conducted in the Jalna city. Survey was carried out during rainy season in June 2012 to December 2012.Sampling was carried out by dipping using pipette or dipper depending on container types. All breeding sources of mosquito larvae were examined different container types: indoor and outdoor i.e. plastic container, earthen pot, natural container, tiers, coconut shell, vase, can and concrete tank. Containers were identified as potential breeding sites. Survey was carried out in outdoors and indoors were found containing larvae. Among all types of containers of total surveyed containers were positive with mosquito larvae, followed by plastic containers, concrete tanks, vases, bottles, cans and earthen pots. A total of 1893 mosquito larvae were collected of which morphological identification of the larvae by use of microscopy yielded, we identified four species those of Aedes aegypti n = 1514 (79.98%), Aedes albopictus n = 9(1%), Culex quinquefasciatus n = 265(14%), Culex vishnui n = 95(5.02%). This study indicated that Aedes and Culex was capable of breeding in a wide range of container types. To control these mosquitoes, the elimination of artificial and natural containers or alteration of breeding sites in city should be taken into consideration.','Mosquito-borne diseases remain the leading health problem and it is estimated that at least 500 million people suffer from mosquito-borne diseases and more than 1.1 million people die of malaria and dengue annually (Madhumathy et al., 2007). These diseases have accounted for huge economic loss, mortality, low productivity and social discrimination in many developing countries (Adeleke et. al., 2010) and to a significant health burden in developed countries via travelers who have not taken sufficient precautions and prophylactic medications before travelling. Larval control (source reduction or suppression) has been identified as one of the most effective methods for the control of mosquito borne diseases (Singh et. al., 2006). This control strategy has proved indispensable as the key to mosquito borne eradication efforts in most developed countries such as the United State of America and some countries in Europe such as Turkey (Kitron and Spielman, 1989; Mwangangi et. al., 2009). Prior to launching the anti-mosquito larval measures, there is a need for a full understanding of the considerable diversity of the breeding habitats available for the ovipositing mosquitoes in different localities. Jalna is one of the endemic cities in Maharashtra state.\r\nThe recent report attempt has been made to study the indoor and out breeding habits of mosquitoes and the diversity of the species between outdoor and indoor ovipositing mosquitoes. This study was therefore under taken to determine the species diversity and density in container preferences of breeding mosquitoes. With regards to vector proliferation human ecology is responsible for the creation of a mosquitogenic environment; man is directly or indirectly creating such a situation (Dutta 2006). Containers are probably the most important factor determining the breeding of Aedes spp. since artificial containers are the major larval habitats in and near human habitation. The outbreaks of dengue are always reported in the city, no larval surveys, if any, are conducted in these city, and because of this very little information on the prevalence larval mosquito breeding is available.\r\n Now day’s Indian scenario of all regions are epidemic for mosquito borne diseases like malaria and dengue, which are regulated by climate. Dengue and chikungunya are the most common wide spread diseases in Marathwada since 2005-2006 (Laxmikant Shinde 2011). The objective of this study was describing mosquito aquatic habitats, to determine larval abundance, density and habitat types of Jalna city.\r\nThe present study was therefore conducted to determine the container breeding preferences of mosquitoes by larval survey in the Jalna city (M.S.). Such information can be used to design an effective control programmed for mosquito control in city.\r\nMATERIALS AND METHODS\r\nThe container survey was conducted from June 2012 to December 2012 in the Jalna city the (N 19051’ and E 076017’). During the survey, all the containers, vessels and coconut shells were examined. Larvae collection was carried out indoors and outdoors by dipping method, using pipette or dipper depending on container type and location. In this study, “indoors” refers to the interior of the building while “outdoors” refers to the outside of the building.\r\nBetween June 2012 and December 2012, we collected the larvae of four species of mosquitoes in Jalna City. Habitat from which collections were made included water storage tanks, plastic containers/vessels, metal vessels, ceramic vessels, tucker box, tires, coconut shell and an abandoned cement tank. We visited 12 stations, many more than once in month and collected 1893 specimens. These locations are Kanhaiya nagar, Hanuman ghat, Hamalpura, Modikhana, College road, Shri Krishana nagar, Sambhaji nagar, Ram nagar, Karwa nagar, Chaman, Railway station area and Ambad choufully. These locations cover whole the area of city, the Jalna divided in to two parts old Jalna and New Jalna. Collected larvae were preserved in 70% ethanol for identification. These larvae were identified morphologically using standard keys of S.R. Christopher 1933, P.J. Barraud 1934, and Bina Pani Das 1990.\r\nRESULTS\r\n A total of 1893 mosquito larvae comprising four species were collected in city during the study period. Aedes aegypti was the predominant species accounting for n = 1514 (79.98%) of the larvae collected followed by Culex quinquefasciatus n = 265(14%), Culex vishnui n = 95(5.02%), and Aedes albopictus n = 9(1%) (Table 2, Fig. 1). Out of total collected larvae indoor density n = 739(39.04%) and outdoor n = 1154(60.96%) (Table 2). Plastic containers shows the highest number of larvae (indoors 80% and outdoor 68%) followed by clay pots and tiers, metal tins, cement tank etc. A. aegypti and Cx.quinquefasciatus breed in all the outdoor containers while A. albopictus only breed in outdoor coconut shell and some observed in tier. However only A. aegypti breed in all the containers indoor as well as outdoor. In all Cx. vishnui breed in turbid water or cement tank. The averagely high number of larvae (n = 293) collected in the month August because of the rainfall (Table 1, Fig. 2). All of the twelve localities in which the Ramnagar area shows the highest number of specimens (n = 201) due to this area have the poor sanitation and slum area of the city (Table 1, Fig. 2).\r\nDISCUSSION\r\nThe results of this study raise a number of public health concerns that need to be addressed. The recent year the rain fall in study area was very low that’s why the people facing the problem of water shortage. The dry season is normally characterized with acute water shortage when most residents usually resort into mass water storage in different containers. These containers, if not properly covered, could serve as breeding sites for disease vectors as two (Aedes aegypti and Aedes albopictus) out of the three species encountered indoors are potential vectors of deadly and life threatening diseases such as yellow fever, dengue and chikungunya. On the other hand, the prolific breeding of the mosquitoes outdoors signals the danger associated with indiscriminate disposal of unwanted containers, the act that is common in many areas of the town (Adeleke et. al., 2008). There is, therefore, a need for public health education campaigns that focus on the dangers inherent in the indiscriminate disposal of containers and storage of water inside the house as this serves as a potential breeding sites for the mosquito vectors. In general, larval predation of mosquitoes is less prevalent in temporary habitats than it is in large, permanent habitats (Service 1977, Sunahara et. al., 2002).There is also need for further studies to evaluate the knowledge and awareness of the residents on mosquito-borne diseases and possible barriers that could be encountered during public health education on vector borne diseases at the study area. The mosquito species present in this area predisposes the inhabitants of this area to the risk of infections of mosquito-borne diseases. This calls for an accelerated campaign of mosquito control in this area especially during the Rainy season encompassing the integrated vector management approaches.\r\n','Kisan D. Thete* and Laxmikant V. Shinde* (2013). Survey of Container Breeding Mosquito Larvae in Jalna City (M.S.) India. Biological Forum – An International Journal 5(1): 124-128. '),(4499,'121','Effect of Aqueous Extract of Moringa oleifera Seed on Sexual Activity of Male Albino Rats','Varsha S. Zade*, Dinesh K. Dabhadkar, Vaibhao G. Thakare and Shital R. Pare','19 DR ZADE VAIBHAVE.pdf','',1,'The aim of the study is to evaluate the effect of the aqueous extract of Moringa oleifera on reproductive abilities of male albino rats. The aqueous extract of M. oleifera seed at doses of 100, 200 and 500 mg/kg were administrated for 21 days. The general mating behaviour and libido activity was studied. The effect of the extract on body weight, reproductive and vital organ weight were determined. The most effective aqueous extract dose was further studied for its effect on sperm count and histoarchitecture of testes of experimental animal. Similarly adverse effects and acute toxicity of the extract were evaluated. Oral administration of aqueous extract at doses of 100, 200 and 500 mg/kg significantly increased the Mounting Frequency, Intromission Frequency and Ejaculation latency with reduction in Mounting Latency, Intromission Latency and Post Ejaculatory Interval. It also significantly increased the libido and sperm count in experimental animal. The extract was also observed to be devoid of any adverse effects and acute toxicity. The results of the present study demonstrate that aqueous extract of M. oleifera seed enhance sexual behaviour in male rats. It also thus provides a rationale for the traditional use of M. oleifera as acclaimed aphrodisiac and for the management of male sexual disorders.','Albino rats, Spermatogenic, Libido, Mating Behaviour, Moringa oleifera','The present results confirm that the seeds M. oleifera ingestion produce increased effects on fertility and reproductive system in adult male rat. It also lends support to the claims for traditional usage of M. oleifera as a sexual function enhancing medicine. Thus, this study may prove to be an effective and safe alternative remedy in sexual disorders. Work is in progress on the isolation and characterization of the spermatogenic principle in the plant extract.','In the last few years, a marked decrease in the quality of semen has been reported (Carlsen et al., 1992). Infertility is one of the major health problems in couples’ lives; approximately 30% of couple’s infertilities are due to male factors (Isidori et al., 2006). Several conditions can interfere with spermatogenesis and reduce sperm quality and production. Many factors such as drug treatment, chemotherapy, toxins, air pollution, and insufficient vitamin intake may have harmful effects on spermatogenesis and the normal production of sperm (Mosher and Pratt, 1991). The classical approach to therapy of male infertility is via spermatogenic drugs such as Clomiphene (Clomid). However, prescription drugs like these are usually expensive, coupled with the possibility of adulteration as such. The gradual shift to herbal therapy with its attendant increasing acceptance, even among the elites, make the herbal practitioners lay claims to having the cure to a myriad of ailments, including male infertility, irrespective of the etiology of such diseases (Anthony et al., 2006). A large number of plants have been tested throughout the world for the possible fertility regulatory properties (Bhatia et. al., 2010). Some medicinal plants are extensively used as aphrodisiac to relieve sexual dysfunction, or as fertility enhancing agents. They provide a boost of nutritional value thereby improving sexual performance and libido (Yakubu et al, 2007; Sumalatha et al., 2010). \r\nMoringa oleifera (Linn) is a medicinally important plant, belonging to family Moringaceae. The plant is also well recognized in India, Pakistan, Bangladesh and Afghanistan as a folkloric medicine (Mughal et al., 1992). M. oleifera is a small or medium sized tree up to 10 m tall, with thick, soft, corky, deeply fissured bark, growing mainly in semiarid, tropical and subtropical areas. Different parts of the tree have been used in the traditional system of medicine. Survey in the tribal belt of Melghat region (20° 51′ to 21° 46′ N and to 76° 38′ to 77° 33′ E) of Amravati district of Maharashtra state of India revealed that the M. oleifera seeds is being used traditionally as an aphrodisiac (Lalas and Tsaknis, 2002). The seeds have been used in indigenous medicine for over many decades as traditional medicine. The seeds are used to exert its protective effect by decreasing liver lipid peroxides, as an antimicrobial agent (Faizi et al, 1998). The leaves of M. oleifera are used as purgative, applied as poultice to sores, rubbed on the temples for headaches, used for piles, fevers, sore throat, bronchitis, eye and ear infections, scurvy and catarrh; leaf juice is believed to control glucose levels, applied to reduce glandular swelling (Morton, 1991; Dahot, 1988; Makonnen et al., 1997). The stem bark is used as abortifacint and antioxidant activity (Ghasi et al., 2000, Nath and Sethi, 1992). \r\nThe root of M. oleifera were shown to possess antilithic, rubefacient, vesicant, carminative, antifertility, anti-inflammatory, stimulant in paralytic afflictions; act as a cardiac/circulatory tonic, used as a laxative, abortifacient, treating rheumatism, inflammations, articular pains, lower back or kidney pain and constipation (Padmarao et al., 1996; Dahot 1988). Therefore, the present work was undertaken to validate scientifically the spermatogenic role of M. oleifera seeds as acclaimed by the traditional tribal user of Melghat region of Amravati district, Maharashtra. But to the best of our knowledge, there is no information in the open scientific literature that has substantiated or refuted the spermatogenic claims of M. oleifera seeds in the folklore medicine.\r\nMATERIALS AND METHODS\r\nCollection of plant material¬¬¬¬: The seeds M. oleifera plant were collected from Melghat region of Amravati district during the flowering period of September to March, identified and authenticated by experts from Botanical Survey of India, Pune (Accession No. VZ-1).\r\nProcurement and rearing of experimental animal: Healthy wistar strain male albino rats of about two month old and weighing 200- 300 gm were procured from Sudhakarrao Naik Institute of Pharmacy, Pusad (Maharashtra). The rats were housed in polypropylene cages and maintained under environmentally controlled room provided with a 12:12 hours light and dark cycle approximately at 25 C. They were fed on pellets (Trimurti Lab Feeds, Nagpur) and tap water ad libitum. The rats were allowed to acclimatize to laboratory environment for 15 days before experimentation. \r\nAll experimental protocols were subjected to the scrutinization and approval of Institutional Animal Ethics Committee [registration number 1060/ac/07/CPCSEA (IAEC/1/2012)].\r\nPreparation of extract: ¬¬¬¬¬¬¬The seeds of M. oleifera were collected, shade dried, powdered and subjected to soxhlet extraction with distilled water. The extract was evaporated to near dryness on a water bath, weighed and kept at 4 °C in refrigerator until further use.\r\nPhytochemical screening: The presence of various plant constituents in the plant extract was determined by preliminary phytochemical screening as per Thimmaiah (2004).\r\nAcute toxicity study: Healthy male albino rats were starved for 3-4 hr and subjected to acute toxicity studies as per (OECD) Organization of Economic Co-operation \r\nand Development guidelines No: 423 (OECD, 2004). They were divided into 4 groups of 6 animals each and kept singly in separate cages during the experiment. Group 1 represented the control group, which received 10 ml/kg of distilled water orally. Groups 2- 4 received suspension of aqueous seed extract of M. oleifera orally at the doses of 1000, 2000 and 5000 mg/kg daily for 7 days respectively. The rats were observed continuously for 2 hours for behavioural, neurological and autonomic profile, and for next 24 and 72 hours for any lethality or death\r\nMating behaviour test: The test was carried out by the methods of Dewsbury and Davis Jr (1970) and Szechtman et al (1981), modified by Amin et al (1996). Healthy and sexually experienced male albino rats (200– 300 gm) that were showing brisk sexual activity were selected for the study. They were divided into 5 groups of 6 animals each and kept singly in separate cages during the experiment. Group 1 represented the control group, which received 10 ml/kg of distilled water orally. Groups 2–4 received suspension of the aqueous extract of Moringa oleifera seed orally at the doses of 100, 200 and 500 mg/kg, respectively, daily for 21 days at 18:00 hr. Group 5 served as standard and was given suspension of sildenafil citrate (Vigora tablets, German Remedies) orally at the dose of 5 mg/kg, 1 hr prior to the commencement of the experiment. Since the male animals should not be tested in unfamiliar circumstances the animals were brought to the laboratory and exposed to dim light at the stipulated time of testing daily for 6 days before the experiment. The female animals were artificially brought into oestrus (heat) (Sooriya and Dharmasiri, 2000) by the Szechtman et al (1981) method (as the female rats allow mating only during the estrus phase). They were administered suspension of ethinyl oestradiol (Lynoral tablets, Organon Pharma) orally at the dose of 100 μg/animal 48 hours prior to the pairing plus progesterone (Dubaget tablets, Glenmark Pharma) injected subcutaneously, at the dose of 1 mg/animal 6 hour before the experiment. The receptivity of the female animals was confirmed before the test by exposing them to male animals, other than the control, experimental and standard animals. The most receptive females were selected for the study. The experiment was carried out on the 21st day after commencement of the treatment of the male animals. The experiment was conducted at 20:00 hour in the same laboratory and under the light of same intensity. The receptive female animals were introduced into the cages of male animals with 1 female to 1 male ratio. \r\nThe observation for mating behaviour was immediately commenced and continued for first 2 mating series. The test was terminated if the male failed to evince sexual interest. If the female did not show receptivity she was replaced by another artificially warmed female. The occurrence of events and phases of mating were recorded on audio video-cassette (Sony Handycam) as soon as they appeared. Their disappearance was also recorded. Later, the frequencies and phases were determined from cassette transcriptions: number of mounts before ejaculation or Mounting Frequency (MF), number of intromission before ejaculation or Intromission Frequency (IF), time from the introduction of female into the cage of the male up to the first mount or Mounting Latency (ML), time from the introduction of the female up to the first intromission by the male or Intromission Latency (IL), time from the first intromission of a series up to the ejaculation or Ejaculatory Latency (EL) and time from ejaculation and the first intromission of the following series or Post-ejaculatory interval.\r\nTest for libido: The test was carried out by the method of Davidson (1982), modified by Amin et al (1996). Healthy and sexually experienced male albino rats (200– 300 gm) that were showing brisk sexual activity were selected for the study. They were divided into 5 groups of 6 animals each and kept singly in separate cages during the experiment. Group 1 represented the control group, which received 10 ml/kg of distilled water orally. Groups 2– 4 received suspension of the aqueous extract of M. oleifera seed orally at the doses of 100, 200 and 500 mg/kg, respectively, daily for 21 days at 18:00 hr. Group 5 served as standard and was given suspension of sildenafil citrate orally at the dose of 5 mg/kg, 1 hour prior to the commencement of the experiment. Since the male animals should not be tested in unfamiliar circumstances the animals were brought to the laboratory and exposed to dim light at the stipulated time of testing daily for 6 days before the experiment. The female rats were made receptive by hormonal treatment and all the animals were accustomed to the testing condition as previously mentioned in mating behaviour test. The animals were observed for Mounting Frequency (MF) on the evening of 21th day at 20:00 hour. The penis was exposed by retracting the sheath and 5% xylocaine ointment (Lidocaine ointment, AstraZeneca Pharma) was applied 30, 15 and 5 min before starting observations. Each animal was placed individually in a cage and the receptive female rat was placed in the same cage. The number of mountings was noted. The animals were also observed for intromission and ejaculation\r\nEffect on sexual and vital organ weight: Healthy and sexually experienced male albino rats (200– 300 gm) that were showing brisk sexual activity were selected for the study. Sexually experienced male albino rats were divided into 5 groups of 6 animals each; Group 1 represented the control group, which received 10 ml/kg of distilled water orally. Group 2- 4 received suspension of the aqueous extract of M. oleifera orally at the doses of 100, 200 and 500 mg/kg, daily for 21 days at 18:00 hour. Group 3 served as standard and was given suspension of sildenafil citrate orally at the dose of 5 mg/kg, daily 1 hour prior to the commencement of the experiment. After 21 days of treatment, all the control, standard and experimental groups of male rats were evaluated for their body weight. The animals were completely anaesthetized with anesthetic ether (Narsons Pharma), then sacrificed by cervical decapacitation and testis, seminal vesicles, epididymis, vas-deference, penis and prostate glands along with vital organ like liver, kidney, adrenal gland, and spleen were carefully removed and weighed using digital electronic balance (Adair Dutt). The organ weight of each organ were determined (Thakur and Dixit, 2006; 2007; Amini and Kamkar, 2005).\r\nEffect on sperm count: Healthy and sexually experienced male albino rats (200– 300 gm) that were showing brisk sexual activity were selected for the study. Sexually experienced male albino rats were divided into 5 groups of 6 animals each; Group 1 represented the control group, which received 10 ml/kg of distilled water orally. Group 2-4 received suspension of the aqueous extract of M. oleifera orally at the dose 100, 200 and 500 mg/kg, daily for 21 days at 18:00 hour. Group 5 served as standard and given suspension of sildenafil citrate orally at the dose of 5 mg/kg, 1 hour prior to the commencement of the experiment. After 21 days of treatment, the sperm count was carried out by using Haemocytometer (Mukherjee and Kanai, 1988). Haemocytometer is generally used for RBC as well as WBC count. It is provided with the pipettes for the dilution of the blood samples and Neaubaur’s slide with special type of ruling. The counting is done in the ruled squares on the slide. The epididymis was removed and placed in a pre-chilled petri-plate. 2 ml. of 0.9% saline was added to it and the cauda epididymis was gently minced with the help of sharp razor. This sample was used for the sperm count. The sample was pipetted out with the help of pipette provided in the Haemocytometer. A clean and dry cover slip was kept on the Neaubaur’s ruling. The ruling was loaded with the sample by touching the tip of the pipette to the slide. \r\nThe slide was kept on a bench for 2 min. to allow the sperms to settle down. The sperms were counted in four squares at the corner of the ruling covering an area of 4 sq. mm. under high power objective. The spermatozoa with head and tail were counted (Taylor et al, 1985; WHO, 1999). \r\nTotal sperm count (C. epididymis)= (Sperm count/4 x 0.1) x 1000\r\nHistopathological studies: The 500 mg/kg body weight aqueous extract of M. oleifera seed was found to be the most active amongst the three doses in sexual activity testing. Hence it was subjected to a detailed investigation for the study of histopathology. Healthy and Sexually experienced male albino rats were divided into 3 groups of 6 animals each; Group 1 represented the control group, which received 10 ml/kg of distilled water orally. Group 2 received suspension of the aqueous extract of M. oleifera orally at the dose 500 mg/kg, daily for 21 days at 18:00 hour. Group 3 served as standard and given suspension of sildenafil citrate orally at the dose of 5 mg/kg, 1 hour prior to the commencement of the experiment. After 21 days of treatment, testis of animals belonging to control, experimental and standard groups were dissected out and immediately fixed in 10 % buffered neutral formalin solution. After fixation, tissues were embedded in paraffin, serial sections were cut at 5 µm, stained with hematoxylin and eosin, examined for histoarchitectural changes and photographed under Olympus BX51 light microscope (Kosif et al, 2008). \r\nStatistical analysis: All the data are expressed as Mean ± S.E. Statistical analysis was done by Student’s t-test and one way ANOVA (Mahajan, 1997).\r\nRESULT AND DISCUSSION\r\nThe seed of M. oleifera has been in use by the tribals of Melghat region as a means of treating sexual inadequacy and stimulating sexual vigor even without recourse to the scientific validity of the claim. Hence this study was carried out to validate scientifically this tribal claim.\r\nPreliminary phytochemical screening of the seed extract of M. oleifera revealed the presence of alkaloids, flavonoids, steroids, phenolics, tannins and saponines. The phytochemical screening helps to reveal the chemical constituent of the plant extract and the one that predominates over the other. It may also be used to search for bioactive agents as starting product used in the partial synthesis of some useful drugs (Harbone, 1998). It has been reported that steroid and saponin constituents found in many plants possess fertility potentiating properties, and they are useful in the treatment of impotence (Shukla and Khanuja, 2004). Saponins found primarily in the leaf Tribulis terrestris L. have been used as an aphrodisiac agent in both; Indian and Chinese traditional system of medicine (Singh and Gupta, 2011). The saponins may boost the level of testosterone in the body as well as trigger libido enhancing effect observed in this study (Gauthaman and Adaikan, 2008). The presence of flavonoids in the M. oleifera extract which has been implicated to have a role in altering androgen levels (Padashetty and Mishra, 2007) may also be responsible for the enhanced male sexual behaviour in this study The alkaloids can also cause facilitation of sexual behaviour and has effect on sexual behaviour (Adimoelja, 2003). The improvement in sexual function demonstrated in the current study might thus be due to the presence of such compounds in M. oleifera seed extracts. Further study are required to identify the active constitutes responsible for the sexual function improvement activities and the mechanism whereby these activities implanted are in progress.\r\n Clinical toxicity symptoms such as respiratory distress, salivation, weight loss and change in appearance of hair as well as maternal mortality were not observed at any period of the experiment. Similarly no mortality and changes in the behavioural, neurological and autonomic profile were observed in treated groups of the rats up to highest dose of 5000 mg/kg body weight. Hence one tenth of treated dose was selected for the present investigation. This revealed that short term use for this purpose is apparently safe. Similar finding was also observed by Tajuddin et al (2005), while working on ethanolic extract of Myristica fragrans.\r\nThe administration of M. oleifera aqueous, chloroform and alcohol seed extract for 21 days to male rats resulted in remarkable increase in the sexual vigor of the male rats, as evidenced by the different parameters studied. The results of mating behaviour test show the aqueous seed extract of M. oleifera at the dose of 100, 200 and 500 mg/kg body weight significantly increased the Mounting Frequency (MF) (P<0.001), Intromission Frequency (IF) (P<0.001) and Ejaculatory Latency (EL) (P<0.001). Similarly it also causes significant reduction in the Mounting Latency (ML) (P<0.001) and Intromission Latency (IL) (P<0.001) in experimental animals as compared to control group. Similarly, the standard drug also increased the MF, IF and EL as well as decreased the ML (P<0.001) and IL (P<0.001) in a highly significant manner as compared to control animals. The most appreciable effect was observed in aqueous extract at the dose of 100, 200 and 500 mg/kg body weight of Moringa oleifera (Table 1).\r\nThe significant increase in Ejaculation latency (EL) suggests that the all experimental extracts and standard drug prolonged the duration of coitus, which is an indicator of increase in sexual motivation (Wattanathorn et al., 2012). \r\nThe present finding shows that the aqueous, alcohol seed extract of Moringa oleifera produces a striking enhancement of over- all sexual performance of normal animals. Our finding also corroborates with the aphrodisiac effect of Allium tuberosum seeds extract, investigated in male rats at 500 mg/kg for 21 days, which significantly reduced ML and IL increased MF, IF and EL (Gouhua et al., 2009). \r\nThe results obtained in the test for libido shows that the aqueous seed extract of Moringa oleifera at the dose of 100, 200 and 500 mg/kg, significantly increased the Mounting Frequency (MF) (P < 0.001, P < 0.01 and P < 0.05) as compared to control group. The standard drug also significantly increased the MF (P < 0.001) as compared to control animals. Intromission was also observed in control; aqueous extract treated and standard groups of animals. The intromission frequency increases in a significant manner in all the extract treated group in a dose dependent manner, however a strikingly increased libido activity was observed in the 500 mg/kg body weight aqueous extract treated animals (Table 2). Thus, it may be inferred that the test drug produced a striking increase in \'pure\' libido. Similar finding was also recorded by Tajuddin et al (2003), while working on ethanolic extracts of Myristica fragrans and Syzygium aromaticum in male rats. The intragastric (i. g.) administration of aqueous seed extract of M. oleifera at the dose of 100, 200 and 500 mg/kg, significantly caused an increase in body weight, when difference between initial and final weight body weight were compared. The weight of the reproductive organ like testes, caput segment of the epididymis, ventral prostate, seminal vesicle, penis and vas- deferens (P < 0.001, P < 0.01 and P < 0.05) increased significantly. Similarly, there was significant increase in the relative weight of the vital organs like liver, adrenal gland and spleen (P < 0.001, P < 0.01 and P < 0.05), when compared with that of control animal group (Table 3).\r\nThe significant increase in the weight gain of reproductive and vital organs was also observed in standard drug treated of animal group as compared to control. Genesis of steroids is one of the causes of increased body and sexual organ weight and an increase in these parameters could be regarded as a biological indicator for effectiveness of the plant extract in improving the genesis of steroidal hormones (Thakur and Dixit, 2007). Since androgenic effect is attributable to testosterone levels in blood (Amini and Kamkar, 2005), it is likely that the plant extracts may have a role in testosterone secretion allowing better availability of hormone to gonads. Testosterone supplementation has previously been shown to improve sexual function and libido (Aversa and Fabbri, 2001), in addition to the intensity of orgasm and ejaculations which might also be expected to improve (Morels, 1996). Similar conclusion was recorded by Watcho et al, (2005), while working on hexane extract of Mondia whitei on the reproductive organ of male rats.\r\n Administration of aqueous seed extract of M. oleifera at the dose of 100, 200 and 500 mg/kg, significantly increased the sperm concentration (sperm count) (P< 0.001) in testes and epididymis as compared to control group. Similarly the standard group animal also showed significant increase in the sperm concentration (sperm count) (P< 0.001) as compared with the control group (Table 4). The present results clearly indicate that administration of aqueous seed extract of M. oleifera has positive effect on spermatogenesis in rats. These results may be due to presence of flavonoids. Flavonoids are well known antioxidants that can ameliorate oxidative stress- related testicular impairments in animal tissues (El-Missiry, 1999; Ghosh et al., 2002; Kujo, 2004). It also stimulates testicular androgenesis and is essential for testicular differentiation, integrity, and steroidogenic functions (Dawson et al., 1990; Luck, 1995; Salem et al., 2001). Our finding was also corroborates with the finding of Mukhallad et al (2009), who studied the effect of Nigella sativa on spermatogenesis and fertility of male albino rats.\r\nThe testis of control group animals showed normal histological texture. All stages of spermatogenesis were clearly observed viz. spermatogonia, spermatocytes, spermatid and spermatozoa, beside connective tissue, blood vessels, lymph ducts and leydig’s cells were observable and distinct. The cuboidal germinal epithelium exhibited normal shape and size. Sertoli cells had many cytoplasmic processes which were normal in size. Spermatozoa were embedded in the sertoli cells and showed normal cytoplasmic granulation. Leydigs cells had normal nuclear size. Luminal part of the tubule were normal in number with bundles of spermatozoa. Spermatozoa with long tail and small distinct head were more visible (Fig. 1a). \r\nThe animal in the extract treated group showed pronounced effects in terms of testis weight and histological alterations. Since the weight and size of the testis was greater in extract treated groups almost all semniferous tubules showed greater morphological difference in size (i.e. it showed increase in the size of seminiferous tubules). The solid packing of seminiferous tubule was quite evident as compared to control. Basement membrane was tightly bound with germinal epithelium. The lumen of seminiferous tubule was filled with bundles of spermatozoa. \r\nIn some tubules, spermatids were found scattered amidst spermatozoa. The germinal epithelium cells appeared to be hyperactive. Large numbers of different cells at different stages of spermatogenesis were evident. Sertoli cells were enlarged, highly processed and rich in nutrients as evidenced by highly granulated cytoplasm. This was the normal response of the sertoli cells when they were in readiness for providing nutritional supplementation to large number of spermatozoa (Mujumdar, 1995). Almost all leydig cells showed hypertrophy with enlarged nucleus and darkly stained cytoplasm. A very clear view of leydig cells was seen in photomicrograph of different doses of aqueous extract treated groups. Increment in the volume of cells and nucleus was strongly suggestive of steroid synthesis under the direct or indirect influence of the plant extract. The blood vessels of testis were slightly dilated (Fig. 1b). Histoarchitecture of sildenafil citrate treated groups also exhibited similar profile. The solid packing also suggests a supposed role of testosterone in increasing the vascularisation of testicular tissue. Increased spermatogenesis was evident by high number of spermatozoa in semniferous tubules and increase in spermatogenic elements as compared to control (Fig. 1c). \r\n\r\nThis histoarchitectural evidence was the clear indication of confirming the spermatogenic efficacy of extracts of M. oleifera seeds in male albino rats. The process of spermatogenesis and accessory reproductive organ function are androgen dependent. In present study the numbers of mature leydig cells as well as number of spermatocytes and spermatids were significantly increased, which reflect the increase of androgen level (Dym et al., 1979). Similar finding were also reported, in the study of spermatogenic effect of Nigella sativa (Mukhallad et al., 2009), and Curculigo orchioides in male rats (Chauhan and Dixit, 2008).\r\n','Varsha S. Zade*, Dinesh K. Dabhadkar, Vaibhao G. Thakare and Shital R. Pare (2013). Effect of Aqueous Extract of Moringa oleifera Seed on Sexual Activity of Male Albino Rats. Biological Forum – An International Journal 5(1): 129-140. '),(4500,'121','Impact of Zinc Sulphate on Behavioural Responses in the Freshwater Fish Channa orientalis (Sch.)','A. P. Charjan and K.M. Kulkarni','20 A. P. CHARJAN AND K.M. KULKARNI.pdf','',1,'Static bioassay test was conducted to determine the toxicity of zinc sulphate on the fresh water fish Channa orientalis. Fishes were exposed to various concentrations of zinc sulphate for 96 hours and the percent mortality was recorded. Objectives of this study were to understand the relationship between mortality and abnormal behavioural responses of fresh water fish Channa orientalis exposed to zinc sulphate. Channa orientalis in toxic media exhibited erratic and darting movements with imbalanced swimming activity, which might be due to the malfunctioning of neurotransmitters, followed by hyper and hypo opercular activity, loss of equilibrium, and mucus secretion all over the body were observed. The 96h LC50 for the fish was determined using Interpolation method and found to be 4.72 mg/l.','Toxicity, behavioral, zinc sulphate, Channa orientalis','From obtained results, it is cleared that the 96h LC50 of zinc sulphate for the Channa orientalis was found to be 4.72 mg/l. The fresh water fish Channa orientalis showed the behavioural shift when exposed to the sublethal concentration of zinc sulphate.','Heavy metal contamination of aquatic ecosystem has long been recognized as a serious problem. Heavy metal contamination may have lethal effect on ecological balance of recipient environment and diversity of aquatic organism (Charjan, 1997; Farombi et. al., 2007). These heavy metal pollution posses a great threat to fishes. When fishes are exposed to elevated level of metal in polluted aquatic ecosystem, they tend to take these metals up from their direct environment (Hoo et. al., 2004). The fish constitutes a valuable commodity from the stand point of human consumption. So heavy metal contamination of fresh bodies and aquatic biota becomes a serious concern from human health point of view. Heavy metal pollution of aquatic ecosystem poses a serious environmental hazard because of their persistence and toxicity (Joshi 2011).\r\nThese heavy metals are available in the water and are further added into aquatic ecosystem as a result of direct input of atmospheric deposition, leaching of mineral and soil erosion due to rain water which causes the hazardous effects on aquatic biota majorly fishes (Mulley et. al. 1996). These heavy metal toxicants are accumulated in the fish through general body surface which affect severally their life support system. Once these toxic substance enters into body, they damage and weaken the mechanism concerned leading to physiological, pathological and biochemical disorders (Arasta et.al. 1999). Behaviour is considered a promising tool in ecotoxicology. The uses of behavioural changes in fishes are diagnostic end point, for screening and differentiating chemicals according to their mode of action (Drummond et al. 1986). Chemicals are categorized to corresponding three general mode of action response syndrome; hyperactivity, hypoactivity and physical deformity (Drummond et. al. 1990). Each syndrome or sign of stress was indicative of a different mode of action.\r\nHence the present study was aimed to investigate behavioral responses in fresh water fish Channa orientalis at laboratory condition.\r\nMATERIAL AND METHOD\r\nThe freshwater fish Channa orientalis were obtained from local sources. They were treated with 0.5 % KMnO4 for five minutes for dermal disinfection. Then they were acclimatized for period of fortnight to laboratory condition. The fishes were of 12-14 Cm in length with weighing 18-30 g were selected for the experiment. The physicochemical parameter of the aged tap water was determined periodically as per standard methods (APHA 1998). The Zinc sulphate (ZnSO4.7H2O) was selected as a heavy metal toxicant for the experiment. Static bioassay was carried out as per Standard Method (APHA 1998) to determine 96 h LC50 (Table 1).\r\n \r\n Charjan and Kulkarni 142\r\n \r\nThe fishes were exposed to different concentration of zinc sulphate for 96 hours. The acclimatized 10 fishes were transferred to glass aquaria (40 × 20 × 20 cm) containing 15 liters of toxicant treated water. The fish were fed (25 mg / earthworm / gm fish / day) once in a day. After exposure of the fish to various concentrations of the toxicants, observations were made on the behavioral and morphological responses of the fish at 12, 24, 48, 72, and 96 hours. Control fish were monitored along with the toxicant concentrations to provide a reference for assessing any behavioral or morphological changes. Responses were recorded if they differed from the control and occurred in 10% of the fish in each test tank.\r\nThe behavioral and morphological indicators observed include; loss of equilibrium, general activity, startle response, hemorrhage, and deformity (including, postural indicators).Each test tank was observed for 10 to 15minutes which allowed sufficient time for an accurate evaluation of each fish. Startle responses were monitored by the following procedures in sequence: passing hand over the test tank (overhead moving visual stimulus), rapping on the tank (vibration stimulus), and lightly touching the fish with a stick (tactile stimulus).\r\nTable 1: Physicochemical Parameters of water.\r\n \r\n\r\nRESULTS AND DISCUSSIONS\r\nThe maximum concentration at which zero percent mortality and minimum concentration at which 100% mortality of Channa orientalis were observed at 7 mg/ L respectively (Fig. 1). LC50 value obtained through sigmoid curve is 4.72 mg /l (Fig. 1). Behavioral changes are physiological responses shown by the animal, which are often used as the sensitive measure of stress syndrome in the organism experiencing it, consequently the behavioral changes were observed in control and exposed fish. \r\nControl Fish: Control fishes maintained a fairly compact school, covering about one third of the bottom during the first five days of the 15 days experiment.\r\nBy fifth day, the fishes became less compact covering up to two-third of the tank area. Fishes were observed to scrap the bottom surface. When startled, they instantly formed a tight group that was maintained briefly. They were sensitive to light and moved to bottom of the tank when light was passed into the tank. Except a less response to form a dense group towards the end of the study, no other extraordinary behavior was observed.\r\nsublethal concentration of Zinc sulphate exhibited abnormal behavioral response. During exposure time, fish initially showed rapid movement, faster opercular activity, surfacing and gulping air. They showed erratic swimming with jerky movements, hyper excitability, convulsions and tendency of escaping from aquaria. These activities were increased initially and subsequently reduced. Beside an interesting observation was noted that there was remarkable reduced body pigmentation along with profuse mucus secretion and its coagulation all over the body. This was followed by loss of equilibrium and fish slowly moved upward in a vertical direction. Thereafter fish became progressively lethargic and lost their sense of equilibrium completely. Ultimately the fish lay down on the bottom of the aquaria with their belly upward before death. In conclusion, the present study proved that the heavy metal salts i.e. Zinc sulphate impacts on behavioral responses in fresh water breathing fish Channa orientalis.\r\nThese all results were well in agreement with Bhoraskar and Kothari (1997), Drummond (1986), Drummond and Russ om (1990), Bhoraskar and Kothari (1997), Joshi (2011). In the present study the abnormal changes in the fish exposed to lethal concentration of zinc sulphate are time dependent. However, the normal behaviour of the fish at 10, 20 and 30 days on exposure to sub lethal concentrations indicates its adaptability to the sublethal concentration due to long term exposure of zinc sulphate. The fish behavior indicates that the fish has adapted to a compensatory mechanism to derive energy during zinc sulphate exposure. Hence this type of study can be useful to compare the sensitivity of the various species of aquatic animals and potency of chemicals using LC50 values and to derive safe environmental concentration, by which there is no lethality and stress to the animals.\r\n','A. P. Charjan and K.M. Kulkarni (2013). Impact of Zinc Sulphate on Behavioural Responses in the Freshwater Fish Channa orientalis (Sch.). Biological Forum – An International Journal 5(1): 141-144.'),(4501,'121','Role of Technology and School based Interventions in Obesity','Nilima Y. Bhoge','21 Nilima Y. Bhoge BF 5(1)2013.pdf','',1,'Technology has played a vital role in the prevention of different diseases and has been implemented in many parts of the world as a tool to fight obesity. Computer, television, mobile phones has influenced and caused great impact on the health of people. Small amounts of weight loss can improve an individual’s life span and since obesity has reached epidemic proportions it is our goal to understand obesity and develop new ways to combat or prevent it. Lack of sleep, genetics, medication, etc is the reasons for the rise in overweight and obesity in most of the cases. An increase in exposure to technology goes hand in hand with a decrease in physical activity. As children spend more time sitting in front of the TV or computer, they spend less time outside running around and burning off calories and energy. Over time, combined with an increase in snacking, this can lead to significant weight gain. The aim of the present study identifies the impact caused by technology in obesity and the effectiveness of school intervention programs to reduce the burden among school children','Obesity, technology, overweight, physical activity','Obesity has become a national epidemic and a disease of global magnitude. The numbers of patients with obesity have grown exponentially in the last 10 years to the degree that the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention reports that one third of the population is obese. Technology clearly plays an important role in the current epidemic of childhood and adolescent obesity. The sheer number of advertisements that children and adolescents see for junk food and fast food have an effect. So, too, does the shift away from good nutritional practices that increased media screen time seems to create. \r\nUnfortunately, the traditional therapies of diets, exercise, behavioral modification and medications have had little effect, especially in the severely obese. Operative approaches now provide the most effective treatment of obesity but carry with them possible risks. It is concluded that electronic technology has increased the obesity problems in the world and school intervention may be very useful to reduce obesity in children in the long run. \r\n','Multi-media multitasking have been on the rise over the years in our country and causes disruptive negative behaviour that changes in snacking behaviour and overall energy intake in adolescents and adults that has caused obesity in people. Obesity has become a growing public health concern over the past four decades afflicting people of all ages and all socioeconomic groups. The constant use of technology has forced people to consume more food while watching television and multitasking (chatting) or while watching television without multitasking. Nine out of 10 food advertisements shown on TV during Saturday morning children’s programming are for low-nutrient foods that are high in fat, sodium and added sugars as per the report in the Journal of the American Dietetic Association in 2008,. This food marketing largely influences a child’s food preferences and, ultimately, his health. This is partly because, unlike adults, children have a hard time distinguishing between regular programming and advertisements. A lack of sleep due to engagement with technology will release hormones ghrelin, a hormone that initiates hunger and decrease in leptin hormone which acts vice versa. On average, a sleep-deprived person will consume 300 extra calories per day, usually from high-fat foods, and snack more frequently than someone who is well-rested that will expose to obesity. Implementing school-based programs to establish healthy habits in youth have been found to have a positive impact. \r\n\r\nFurther, benefits have been shown when supplementing classroom education with 1:1 health coaching provided by nursing students.\r\nChildhood obesity school interventions must be geared toward physical activity and nutrition of the children. Previously, in other parts of the world, programs such as Coordinated Approach to Child Health (CATCH) and SWITCH are school-based interventions that have aimed to modify physical activity and diet of elementary students. The CATCH program focus was on changing the behaviour of elementary school students’ physical activity and healthy eating through curriculum provided by classroom teachers. The aim of the present study identify the impact caused by technology in prevention of obesity and the effectiveness of school intervention programs to reduce the burden among school children. Some suggested strategies for childhood obesity prevention and management include increasing physical activity, reducing sedentary time including television viewing, personalized nutrition plans for very obese kids, co-curriculum health education which should be implemented in schools and counseling for children and their parents (Ranjani et al., 2014). Globally, children in particular are gaining weight, which tracks into adulthood thus increasing the risk of adult diseases such as type 2 diabetes, cardiovascular disease (CVD), hypertension and polycystic ovarian syndrome (PCOS) later in life (WHO, 2005, Singh et al., 2008). Aggarwal et al. (2004) showed that among obese adolescents in Punjab a significant percentage (82.3%) were non-vegetarians.\r\nGoyal et al. (2010) reporting on adolescents from Gujarat did not find a difference in the prevalence of overweight and obesity among vegetarians and non-vegetarians but did find a correlation with frequency of eating out as well as with junk food consumption. Shah et al. (2010) aimed to evaluate the impact of a school-based health and nutrition education program on knowledge and behavior on 3128 school children (8-18 years), 2241 parents and 841 teachers from three different cities representing North India. Low baseline knowledge and behavior scores were reported in 75-94% of the government and 48-78% of the private school children, across all age groups. A significant improvement was observed in younger children (aged 8-11 years) compared with those aged 12-18 years; in females compared to males and in government schools compared to private schools (P < 0.05 for all).\r\nThe same group also reported the effectiveness of a more focused multi-component intervention model of nutrition and lifestyle education on behavior modification, anthropometry and metabolic risk profile in urban Indian adolescents. Two schools matched for student strength and socioeconomic strata were randomly allocated as intervention and control group. Changes in nutrition-related knowledge, attitude, lifestyle practices, food frequency and body image of eleventh-grade students (15-17 years) were tested in both schools. At 6 months follow-up, significant improvement in several domains of knowledge and lower consumption of aerated drinks and energy-dense unhealthy foods was observed in the intervention school children (n = 99) as compared to the control school children (n = 102). Another significant observation was that higher proportion of intervened children brought packed lunch and carried fruit to school compared to the control group. Additional measurements in relation to insulin resistance, β-cell function, disposition index, and subclinical inflammation were reported in another paper on the same cohort of adolescents which predictably showed marked improvements in these measures among the intervened children compared to the control group \r\nA recent study from southern India revealed that a significant increase in the level of knowledge among normal and overweight children can be achieved by a mass education program (Singhal et al., 2010, 2011). \r\nKEY FACTORS OF CHILDHOOD OBESITY\r\nOverweight and obesity are caused by numerous social and environmental factors that influence people\'s energy intake and physical activity.\r\nReversing the energy balance to restore a healthy weight is a significant challenge once an individual is overweight or obese, predominantly for adolescent people who can have little control over food and activity choices. \r\nKey determinants of childhood obesity are however, unhealthy dietary habits, and reduced physical activity remain significant problems. \r\nA. Lack of physical activity\r\nLack of physical activity is a prime cause of obesity. television viewing, internet, and computer games alone or in combination with factors like outdoor activities, lack of open spaces and playgrounds in schools and communities along with increasing pressure on children to perform in academics and reduced emphasis on sports, contribute to childhood obesity. The association between obesity and use of other media is somewhat weaker. Combining a clinical assessment of baseline activity levels and modifying environment to promote physical activity should be part of any preventive strategies.\r\nB. Overindulgence caloric intake\r\nThe practice of overfeeding of low-birth-weight babies for catch up growth, if continued, also contributes to obesity. Due to the unrestricted access to energy-dense foods at various platforms like school cafeteria and school neighborhood combined with low knowledge about dietary components in school children, there is often increased caloric intake per body weight per day.\r\nC. Changes in Lifestyle\r\nDue to fast life in urban India people do not have time to go for walking and purchase things just by walking to the store or other shops. They usually take vehicles even for shorter distances that has exposed them to obesity at large.\r\nD. Peer influence and affluence\r\nPeer influence and affluence is again causing risks among children as they want to show superiorty over the others in terms of food. Again limited availability of open spaces and parks due to population expansion and illegal settlements with abundance of fast-food outlets and eating points increase the chance of the child becoming obese.\r\nTECHNOLOGY AND OBESITY\r\nWith the advent of cell phones, television sets, computers the long-term health effects in India are taking an ugly turn. The everyday household devices in homes that are easily available and affordable to low-income people have made the situation worse as it is linked to a growing pandemic of chronic diseases, especially obesity due to too much sitting, less physical activity and increased consumption of calories.\r\nThe study subjects 154,000 people around the world were studied from 17 different nations for up to 12 years were asked about their medical history, physical activity, their daily eating habits and their height and weight were recorded. \r\n \r\n\r\nResults showed that there seemed to be no correlation between the number of devices in a home and the rate of diabetes, obesity and other conditions like heart disease in high-income countries. Obesity, for example, raised from a 3.4 per cent prevalence if there were no devices in the home, to 14.5 per cent for three devices. Similar findings were documented in diabetes in low-income countries.\r\nThe possession of three devices was associated with a 31 per cent decrease in time spent doing physical activity, a 21 per cent increase in time spent sitting and a nine-centimetre increase in waist size compared to their peers who didn’t have TV, computers or cars. Although, it is said that the devices themselves don’t cause obesity and diabetes, it’s how it most likely affects behaviour - less physical activity, sitting more and eating more, and it also affects diet. \r\nChildren spend an average of 7 hours per day watching TV, playing video games and using the Internet in India. The maximum recommended time per day is one or two hours. A YMCA survey concluded that over half of children between the ages of 5 and 10 spend less than four days per week playing outside. The study also showed that almost 75% of parents made the decision to spend family time watching television with their kids instead of doing other activities.\r\nThe presence of a TV set in a child\'s bedroom seems to exacerbate the impact of TV-viewing on children\'s weight status. A study of 2343 children aged 9 to 12 years revealed that having a bedroom TV set was a significant risk factor for obesity, independent of physical activity (Adachi et al. 2007). A cross-sectional study of 2761 parents with young children in New York found that 40% of the 1- to 5-year-olds had a bedroom TV, and those who did were more likely to be overweight or obese. Teenagers with a bedroom TV spent more time watching TV, less time being physically active, ate fewer family meals, had greater consumption of sweetened beverages, and ate fewer vegetables than did teenagers without a bedroom TV.\r\nGranted, economic factors also play a part in the struggle of technology vs. physical activities. Moreover, parents are working over 40 hours per week to make ends meet while coordinating their schedules with their kids schedules, and they find it difficult to make time for physical activities. Also, families with economic challenges have to choose between afterschool activities like sports and paying rent or the mortgage.\r\nSCHOOL-BASED OBESITY PREVENTION STRATEGIES\r\nThe following strategies may be used in the prevention of obesity among school children in India:\r\n(i) Coordination: Many state government agencies and nongovernmental organizations develop and implement school based programs to promote physical activity and healthy eating. States can maximize the effectiveness and efficiency of these efforts by:\r\n(a) Reinforcement of program coordination, integration, and partnership.\r\n(b) Line up program outcomes and priorities across departments.\r\n (c) Political interagency workgroups and budget planning.\r\n(d) Encouraging agencies to work together to develop and implement state standards and policies.\r\n(ii) Decision-making and policy formulation: School health programs and policies need to be modified to make the right choices and allocate resources to address childhood obesity. States need accurate data about young people’s health-related behaviors by encouraging schools to participate in data collection surveys.\r\n(iii) Health planning: A key task of a school health council is to assess the school’s health policies and programs to determine goals for school health programs and facilitate collaboration on health-related programs. Require school districts to create a school health council and designate a school health coordinator who provides leadership for health-related programs. Provide training for school health councils, administrators, and school health coordinators on using research-based self-assessment and planning tools. \r\n(iv) Wellness policies: Wellness policies can command physical education requirements, health education requirements, the types of foods and beverages sold on campus, and many other important practices that promote physical activity and healthy eating\r\n(v) Professional development: Qualified staff is essential to implement effective school physical activity and nutrition programs. Qualified physical education teachers must be in elementary schools.\r\nEffective policies and tools apart from school based interventions may include: \r\nSupervision\r\na. Initiate community-based research to document burden of obesity and associated risk factor and monitor these trends over time.\r\nb. Maintain a nationwide database on secular trends in obesity and associated commodities.\r\nc. Periodic examination of nutritional and obesity status of children including adults:\r\nd. To create a database for childhood obesity at various regions to start with and then may be at state level\r\nEducation \r\na) Clinical counseling interventions in the primary care setting is suggested and health care should include obesity-focused education\r\nb) Educational materials are available from a variety of sources to facilitate the counseling. These materials have much in common and have not been directly compared; it is reasonable for providers to select materials with messaging that is best suited to their community.\r\n','Nilima Y. Bhoge (2013). Role of Technology and School based Interventions in Obesity. Biological Forum – An International Journal 5(1): 145-149.'),(4502,'122','Effect of Peri-Vitelline Fluid from Horseshoe Crab Embryo in Enhancing the Early Gonadal Development in Red Tilapia','T.C. Srijaya, P.J. Pradeep, A. Hassan, A. Chatterji and F. Shaharom','1 DR PRADEEP MALASIA.pdf','',1,'Peri-vitelline fluid (PVF) from horseshoe crab embryos has been found to contain molecules that stimulate growth and differentiation of specific organs in vertebrate models. Using red tilapia fingerlings, we have made an attempt to study the early development of gonads using PVF. From four different concentrations of PVF tested (100ul, 200ul, 300ul and 500ul), the best concentration was screened based on highest specific growth and successful spawning initiation in red tilapia fingerlings. A concentration of 200ul PVF injected intramuscularly to the red tilapia fingerlings showed high significance in terms of gonad enhancement and Gonado-somatic index for both sexes as compared to controls within 7 days of the study. Results suggest that PVF from horseshoe crab have the ability to enhance the gonadal maturity in red tilapia. This study discusses the impact of PVF treatment on growth performance, spawning and gonadal enhancement and their future applications. ','Horseshoe crab, red tilapia, peri-vitelline fluid, gonad, lectin, spawning','Peri-vitelline fluid (PVF) from horseshoe crab embryos has been found to contain molecules that stimulate growth and differentiation of specific organs in vertebrate models. Using red tilapia fingerlings, we have made an attempt to study the early development of gonads using PVF. From four different concentrations of PVF tested (100ul, 200ul, 300ul and 500ul), the best concentration was screened based on highest specific growth and successful spawning initiation in red tilapia fingerlings. A concentration of 200ul PVF injected intramuscularly to the red tilapia fingerlings showed high significance in terms of gonad enhancement and Gonado-somatic index for both sexes as compared to controls within 7 days of the study. Results suggest that PVF from horseshoe crab have the ability to enhance the gonadal maturity in red tilapia. This study discusses the impact of PVF treatment on growth performance, spawning and gonadal enhancement and their future applications. ','The horseshoe crab, described as the world’s oldest living fossil has significant economic importance in pharmaceutical, clinical and food industries. These remarkable ‘living fossils’ have unique blood cells (amebocytes) that are used to test human vaccines for bacterial contamination. The ameobocytes of horseshoe crab is white but if it comes into contact with bacteria would instantly coagulate around the bacteria and attack it and turns blue (Levin and Bang, 1968). Besides the importance of amoebocytes as a rapid diagnostic reagent (Limulus Amebocyte Lysate, LAL), there are many other important factors hidden within horseshoe crab. The egg of the mysterious horseshoe crab is also filled with valuables. During early developmental stages of the horseshoe crab embryo, the inner egg membrane is formed (Nagai et al., 1999). The fluid which is filled between the inner egg membrane and embryo is known as peri-vitelline fluid (PVF), which contains important primitive types of proteins (Sekiguchi, 1988). Many attempts have been previously made to purify and characterize the amino acid sequences in PVF of the horseshoe crab (Sugita and Sekiguchi, 1979; Shishikura and Sekiguchi, 1984; Nagai et al., 1999). These studies have identified proteins such as hemagglutinins and hemocyanin and suggested that these proteins may have an important role in embryogenesis (Sugita and Sekiguchi, 1979; Shishikura and Sekiguchi, 1984a). Moreover, three glycoproteins with potent agglutinin-binding activity have also been isolated from the PVF of Tachypleus gigas, (Muller, 1785) embryo (Shishikura and Sekiguchi, 1984b). Attempts have also been made to verify the applications of PVF for various bio-medical uses. It has been observed that the PVF from horseshoe crabs have helped in proliferation of beta cells (β-cells) that could be made useful for insulin production in human beings (Parab et al., 2004).\r\nStudies on chick developing embryo showed that the PVF contained certain biologically active molecules that influence the early vertebrate embryonic development and differentiation of specific organs such as brain and heart (Ghaskadbi et al., 2008). The partially purified fluid from this study showed that a molecule Lectin, helps in cardiac development in chick embryos.\r\nHence, it is clear from the study of Ghaskadbi et al. (2008) that the PVF of horseshoe crab contains peptide(s) capable of positively influencing differentiation of specific organs. \r\nSuch peptides are likely to be present in minute quantities and may be as proteins (Nagai et al., 1999). Considering the activity of such peptides and proteins present in the PVF of horseshoe crabs on early organ development and differentiation in vertebrates, we have attempted to see the efficacy of such molecules in early gonadal development of red tilapia [Oreochromis mossambicus (Peters, 1852) X Oreochromis niloticus (Linnaeus, 1758)]. This research was conducted at aquaculture research hatchery at University Malaysia Terengganu.\r\nMATERIALS AND METHODS\r\nA. Horseshoe crab egg collection and artificial incubation\r\nFertilized eggs of the Malaysian horseshoe crab (Carcinoscorpius rotundicauda, Latrielle, 1802) were collected directly from the nest made on the breeding ground of Setiu at Terengganu (Eastern coast of Peninsular Malaysia; Lat 5°42′60″N; Long 102°42′0″E, Srijaya et al. (2010); see for details of location). The fertilized eggs collected from the nest were kept for incubation at a constant temperature of 27+1o C and salinity 20+2 ppt as described previously by Srijaya et al. (2011). During the initial 15 days, the fertilized eggs were dark green in color which then changed to light greenish-yellow during the 20-35 days of incubation. At this stage the eggs were swollen and transparent. Due to the accumulation of embryonic fluid (PVF) between the outer envelope and embryo, the size of the eggs increased considerably. \r\nB. Perivitelline Fluid Collection\r\nAfter 30-35 days of incubation, the developing eggs were collected and thoroughly cleaned with sterile, chilled seawater. The eggs were then transferred to a sterile plastic eppendorf tube (1.5ml) with a minute hole at its base. These tubes were placed in a sterile intact 2ml collection tube. The vitelline membrane of the egg was pierced using a 22gauze sterile needle under highly aseptic conditions and immediately the eppedorf tube placed inside the collection tube was centrifuged at 5000 rpm for 10min at 4o C as described previously by Ghaskadbi et al. (2008). The PVF eluted inside the collection tube was pipette, aliquoted and stored at -20o C until usage\r\nC. Experimental design\r\nFingerlings of red tilapia were used for the experimental trials. Fingerlings of approximately 6 gram in weight were sorted from the rearing tanks. The initial weight of the fingerlings was taken and they were introduced into the glass aquarium tanks of 550 l capacity. The temperature of the aquarium tanks were maintained at 28±1° C using digital heater (Model-D-38300, 300W-Italy). During the experimental period the fingerlings were fed with powdered feed (ASEAN Marine Fish Feed with 43% protein) at a ratio of 12-15% of their body weight, thrice a day.Water quality was maintained throughout the experimental period by daily exchange of 40% water. The quality of water was monitored with the help of a master test kit (AquariumPharmaceuticals, INC) where nitrite (NO2−), pH and ammonia were approximately kept at 0.2 mg/l, >7 mg/l and 0.25mg/l, respectively.\r\nThe initial experimental attempt was to find out the optimum concentration of PVF for promoting growth and spawning in red tilapia fingerlings. Fingerlings were tested with four different doses of PVF, ranging from 100ul, 200ul, 300ul and 500ul. Control group were kept without any PVF treatments. Each group was taken in duplicate and in each tank 10 fish were taken. All the experimental groups were maintained under similar culture conditions to avoid any experimental error. The Frozen PVF was thawed before injecting into the fingerlings. Using sterile surgical syringes (22gauze) the desired concentration of PVF was injected intramuscularly into the fingerlings. The fishes were then kept under observation for a period of 15 days to determine their growth variation and spawning activity between the control group and treated group.\r\nThe next experimental attempt was to determine the effect of PVF on the gonadal enhancement of red tilapia fingerlings. For this, the optimized concentration of PVF from the first trial was tested (200ul) and the control groups were not given any PVF treatments. A total of 15 fingerlings were used for this experiment and both groups were taken in duplicate. The development of gonad was evaluated at the end of 7th day. However, before sacrificing, the individual weight of each fish from all the groups was taken using a single pan electronic balance (precision 0.01 g). The parameters like gonadalweight and gonado-somaticindex (GSI) were also calculated where GSI was deduced according to the formula as described previously by Pradeep et al. (2012).\r\n\r\nGonadosomatic index (GSI) = Weigth of gonad(g) x 100\r\n Weight of fish(g) \r\nSpecific growth rate (SGR) was determined as: \r\nSGR = [(In WF - In WI)/t (days)] 100, \r\nWhere, t is duration of the experiment. \r\nD. Statistical analysis\r\n Standard statistical procedures were used for data processing using the statistical package SPSS, 20.0 and data were expressed as a mean ± SD. Comparison of total weight and specific growth rate between different concentrations of PVF and control was made using one-way ANOVA, followed by tukey test. Levene\'s test was used to determine the homogeneity of variances. The data for the factors GSI and gonad weight among treatment and control were analyzed using one-way ANOVA. Differences were considered significant when P<0.05. \r\nRESULTS AND DISCUSION \r\nComparison of the mean initial and final body weight of the red tilapia fingerlings for a total of 15days (Trial 1) injected with various concentrations of PVF are given in Fig. 1. When the results of the final weight between the various treatment was statistically analyzed, the concentration of 200ul showed some significance over 100ul and control (P>0.05), but not with the other 2 groups. Though the specific growth rate were higher in PVF treated groups (200ul, 300ul and 500ul) as compared to control group, none were statistically significant. The specific growth rate obtained from various concentrations; 100, 200, 300, 500ul and control tested in the present study was 4.4, 5.7, 5.1, 5.1, 4.5; respectively. \r\n(Note: All fishes in 500ul PVF concentration were found dead and thus the standard deviation was not able to provide.)\r\n \r\nThe concentration 500ul was found to be lethal for the red tilapia fingerlings, as all the experimental fish were found dead in one of the replicate and out of 10 fishes, only 2 were left in the other replicate. A concentration of 200ul PVF was found very effective in inducing the red tilapia fingerlings to spawn (Table 1). Although, 300ul PVF also showed some spawning success, the results were not as consistent as found in 200ul concentration.\r\nThe mean bodyweight, gonad weight and GSI for both the sexes of PVF treated (200ul) and control group without the PVF treatment after 7 days are given in Table 2. The average total weight gained by both sexes was almost similar and a significant variation was not visible. Testes of PVF treated group was elongated with well-developed testicular organ, which showed motile spermatozoa, whereas testes were rather thin and flat with somewhat watery spermatozoa for the control treatment without PVF (Fig. 2). Highly significant difference was seen with testes weight and GSI of the PVF treated group with that of the controls (P>0.001).\r\n1Mean (±SE), a common superscript in rows indicates values which do not differ significantly (P>0.05)).\r\n\r\n \r\nSimilarly, highly significant result was observed (P<0.001) in ovary weight and GSI between PVF treated group and control groups at 7thday (Table 2). The ovaries of PVF treated were nearly 2 times heavier than the ovaries of their control counterpart. The ovaries of the PVF treated females showed numerous developing oocytes, while the ovaries of the control were very thin and string-like. There were no signs of developing oocytes in the control group as observed in the treatment group (Fig. 2). In the present study, we have demosnstrated for the first time that the crude PVF collected from the Malaysian horseshoe crab (C. rotundicauda) can enhance the growth, early gonadal maturation and spawning in red tilapia fingerlings. The most prominent observed effect was related to enlarged gonads.\r\nAmong all tested concentrations of PVF, 200ul concentration was very effective for enhacing the growth, gametogenesis and spawning.\r\nThe embryo of the horseshoe crab inside the PVF goes through four molts before they are hatched out as trilobite larvae (Sekiguchi et al., 1982). The protein components of PVF of horseshoe crab embryo (T. tridentatus) was first reported by Sugita and Sekiguchi (1979). Peri-vitelline fluid of horseshoe-crabs has many important proteins such as hemagglutinins and hemocyanin, which has a substantial role in the process of embryogenesis (Sugita and Sekiguchi, 1979; Shishikura and Sekiguchi, 1984 a, b). Lectin proteins were also isolated and characterized from the PVF of horse shoe crabs including; T. tridentatus Nagai et al. (1999) and T. gigas (Ghaskbadi et al., 2008). These lectins were proposed to play an important role in completing early embryonic development by interacting with endogenous glycoproteins or N-acetylhexosamines. \r\nThe lectin isolated from, T. gigas with a relative molecular mass of 2.7 x 104, made of 221 amino acid residues, were found to enhance the cardiac development enhancing activity in the chick embryo (Ghaskbadi et al., 2008). This study has revealed that the lectin isolated from PVF of horseshoe crabs is capable of stimulating various aspects of embryonic development and specific organ enhancement (brain and heart) in chick embryo. This clearly indicates that the PVF contains molecules (peptides) that stimulate growth and differentiation of specific organs. More likely such peptides may be present as particular protein in minute amount (Nagai et al., 1999). Our study using red tilapia also has proven this concept, by showing the enhancement of its gonad during the early developmental period. Since our study was only a preliminary trial, we haven’t attempted to characterize the molecules or peptides responsible for the gonad enhancement. However, from the clearly proven results of Ghaskbadi et al. (2008) using chick embryo, it could be hypothesized that certain proteins/peptides present in the PVF are also capable of stimulating gonad enhancement in red tilapia.\r\nMorphological analysis and comparison of gonads in terms of weight and GSI from each sexes of the treated group with that of the non PVF treated control revealed that PVF treatment using 200ul concentration has substantially increased the gonad size and GSI index. Similar to our results, Ghaskbadi et al. (2008) also has observed cardiac enhancement in majority of the chick embryos tested, while the rest of the features like neural tube, notochord and gut from the treated embryos were comparable to the controls when a 20 ng concentration of PVF Fraction VII was applied. The hypertrophy of gonodal structures and early spawining in red tilapia fingerlings suggests that there was an unusually large amount of sex hormone in circulation. In fishes, both spawning and gonadal development are synchronized through the hypothalamus-pituitary-gonadal and hepatic axis, because these organs produce substances influencing each other, leading to successful reproduction (Zohar et al., 2009). \r\nWe suspects that the factors in PVF (similar to neuro-peptides and neuro-secretions) have positive feed back on the red tilapia brain, especially the hypothalmo-hypophysial-pituitary-gonadal and hepatic axis. This might have triggered the downstream activation like the release of tropic hormones, gonadotropin (GtHs) in particular, which induce the production of sex steroids like estrogens and progestogens in female and androgens in male, regulating ultimately the various reproductive events (Evans and Claiborne, 2006; Lal and Dubey, 2011). In chick embryo also PVF fraction VII has showed significant influence on the brain development and activities (Ghaskbadi et al., 2008).\r\nPrevious research have provided evidence that factors like cytokines, growth factors, regulatory peptides, reactive oxygen and nitrogen species synthesized and released by a variety of testicular and ovarian cells could influence the reproductive activity greatly and could also modulate the action of endocrine hormones delivered to gonads from the hypothalmo-hypophysial axis (Lal and Dubey, 2011). Several growth factors which are polypeptide proteins, have been known to regulate the proliferation of germ cells in the mammalian gonads (Guraya 1995, 1998, 1999). Moreover, the peptide growth factors are known to be involved inductive events in the early amphibian embryo by either modulating the gene expression or by serving to constrain the pathways (Asashima et al., 1999). However, such kind of peptide growth factors that is capable of regulating these events in teleostean fish is still scarce.\r\nPreviously, β cell differentiating factors capable of insulin production was identified from the PVF of fertilized eggs of horseshoe crab (T. gigas) (Parab and Chatterji, 2003). Study by Ghaskbadi et al. (2008) showed that the partially purified PVF have positive effect on cardiac development by increasing the number of cells constituting the heart and by modulating the expression of several cardiac development regulatory genes in chick embryos. They suggested that the property of PVF can be exploited for use in vitro heart regeneration. A recent study has observed that peri-vitelline fluid (PVF) could maintain the CD 34+ phenotype in human bone marrow-derived stem cells for prolonged duration and increases the total number of CD 34+ cells in culture (Mirshahi et al., 2010).\r\nTaken together with all these studies and the current study, we hypothesis that the growth factors from PVF might be having an effect on cell proliferation in spermatogonial and oogonial stem cells. This was evident in the present study, where the red tilapia fingerlings treated with 200ul of PVF have nearly 2 times larger gonads than their control counterparts. Moreover, successful spawning tendency observed in the fingerlings revealed that the spermatogonial and oogonial cells were functional and fertile. In aquaculture aspects, the results from the present study is very encouraging as PVF treatment could be a viable option for overcoming the reproductive dysfunctions in many fishes of commercial interest. However, further detail investigation is required to isolate and characterize the particular factors responsible for the enhancement of gonads in fish. Overall, the present study if taken in a wider perspective implies that the growth factors in PVF can be exploited for regenerative stem cell biology.\r\n','T.C. Srijaya, P.J. Pradeep, A. Hassan, A. Chatterji and F. Shaharom (2013). Effect of Peri-Vitelline Fluid from Horseshoe Crab Embryo in Enhancing the Early Gonadal Development in Red Tilapia. Biological Forum – An International Journal 5(2): 1-7. '),(4503,'122','More on Speciation - A view','Krishna Kumar Verma, Pierre Jolivet and Rashmi Saxena','2 DR KK VERMA.pdf','',1,'Speciation is a continuum of divergent selection, in which certain levels are taken as separate species, keeping in view the Biological Species Concept. The divergent selection operates on variability in populations, resulting from mutations and from gene flow or genomic hitchhiking. An incipient species enters or initiates an ecological niche, which is, as per the modern concept, a hyper volume, including biologically related organisms.','Divergent selection; Ecological niche; Ecological speciation; Genomic hitchhiking; Gene flow.','Speciation is a continuum of divergent selection, in which certain levels are taken as separate species, keeping in view the Biological Species Concept. The divergent selection operates on variability in populations, resulting from mutations and from gene flow or genomic hitchhiking. An incipient species enters or initiates an ecological niche, which is, as per the modern concept, a hyper volume, including biologically related organisms.','Species and Speciation” have been discussed in an earlier communication (Verma et al., 2013). In that review paper it has been said that speciation is a continuum of divergence and in this continuum taxonomists make out certain levels as species, keeping in view the Biological Species Concept (BSC). They take the levels, which differ considerably in their phenotypic features from the previous and the following levels, as distinct species, taking the considerable phenotypic divergence as indication of reproductive isolation. That thus making out of species involves some arbitrariness cannot be denied. \r\n It is of interest to note that, as pointed out by Thompson (2009), commonly it is believed that genetic constitution of a species is constant, ignoring the potential genetic dynamism of populations, communities, and ecosystems, In view of this dynamism it has been rightly asked whether the modern humans (Homo sapiens) are still evolving (Verma, 2012). Speciation involves divergent selection. Selection works on genetic variability.\r\nGENETIC VARIABILITY\r\nHow is genetic variability in a population produced? It is held that it results from accumulation of mutations, both beneficial and indifferent. But another source of genetic variability is now known, viz. gene flow (Feder et al., 2012). This phenomenon has also been called genomic hitchhiking (GH). \r\n\r\nIn this event a part of a DNA sequence gets separated from its original position, and may get attached to another part of the sequence. This change affects the original gene interaction pattern. As a result a new genetic type is produced, which may get separated by some distance from the original population, and thus may be free to evolve adaptively independently, in which situation this result in speciation in a new direction.\r\n The authors (Feder et al., loc. cit.) have cited a number of cases, wherein speciation, resulting from divergent selection, following GH or gene flow may be suspected. They have cited and discussed at some length the genomes of certain species and races of Heliconius butterflies, and have inferred that origin of some races/species has been through divergent selection following GH or gene flow. \r\n Mair (2010) has discussed the reinforcement mechanism between two drifting apart conspecific populations, resulting in reproductive isolation between them. The author points out that two populations, which are in two ecologically somewhat different situations, may hybridize in the meeting zone, but such hybrids are generally inviable or sterile. This situation reinforces reproductive isolation between them. This situation has been illustrated by citing the case of two related species of Drosophila, D. yakuba and D. santomea, between which sometimes hybridization occurs, and the males, resulting from the hybridization, are sterile. The reproductive isolation strengthening mechanism is obvious. Verma et al. (2013) have also emphasized gradual strengthening of reproductive isolation during speciation.\r\nAN ENVIRONMENTAL NICHE\r\nAn incipient species enters or contributes to an environmental niche. The modern concept of an environmental niche, as pointed out by Hutchinson (cited by Kitching, 2013) is that it is a hypervolume space, defined by many environmental dimensions, both biological and physiochemical, which determine presence (or absence) and well being of an organism. Thus a niche includes a small community, consisting of a species in question, along with its parasites/predators/food source, all interacting. Thus a niche is a multidimensional concept. It may still leave space for a ‘new comer’.\r\n As Kitching (loc. cit.) has mentioned, the niche for the lepidopteran Paralucia spinifera in Australia includes its food plants, attendant ants, and absence of ‘congeners’. \r\nECOLOGICAL SPECIATION\r\nNocil (2012) has defined ecological speciation as the process by which reproductive isolation between populations evolves from ecologically based divergent selection.\r\n Charles Darwin was well aware of the importance of the role of ecological factors in shaping the course of evolution (Thompson, 2009). Thompson (loc. cit.) says that some phenotypic features respond more readily to changing environment than others. Fundamental features, like bilateral symmetry in higher animals, are least affected by changing surroundings, whereas other features respond more obviously to changing environs. \r\n In a review of the book by P. Nosil, “Ecological Speciation”, Futuyma (2012) points out that the author has overemphasized the role of gene flow in speciation.\r\n MacColl (2011) has suggested more of experimental approach to the effect of environmental factors on organisms, and the strength of selection, resulting from changes in such factors. Further he has recommended that the data, emerging from this approach, and such existing data should be subjected to appropriate statistical analysis, as this will provide a clear understanding of how environmental factors affect the course of evolution through natural selection.\r\nSPECIATION THROUGH SEXUAL SELECTION\r\nIt has been suggested that sexual selection contributes to speciation. Kraaijeveld et al. (2011), as cited earlier also (Verma et al., 2013), have tested this hypothesis, by extensively reviewing the published data for different groups, and have statistically and phylogenetically analyzed the data. They have inferred:\r\n(1) that there is a small but significantly positive support for the hypothesis; and\r\n(2) that the frequency of the correlation between sexual selection and speciation varies considerably among different taxa, e.g. :\r\n(a) Among the available data for birds in 38 studies, 24 showed positive correlation,\r\n(b) Among the available data for insects in 6 studies, in 4 studies the hypothesis was supported, and\r\n(c) Among 14 studies on mammals, none was found supportive. \r\nSYMPATRIC SPECIATION\r\nA general notion is that reproductive isolation between related populations develops in allopatry. But it may develop in sympatry too, if the two populations are in the same general area but in different niches. Speciation in sympatry has been discussed by Verma (2010).\r\nCONCLUDING REMARKS\r\nThe continuum of speciation is maintained by divergent selection, supported by genetic dynamism of populations, communities and ecosystems. The genetic variability, needed for the selection, is provided by accumulation of mutations, and also by gene flow through genetic hitchhiking. An incipient species contributes to or initiates an ecological niche, which is a hyper-volume, including a small community of biologically related organisms. Ecological factors shape the direction of the divergent selection involved in speciation. \r\n','Krishna Kumar Verma, Pierre Jolivet and Rashmi Saxena (2013). More on Speciation - A view. Biological Forum – An International Journal 5(2): 8-10. '),(4504,'122','Hair Cuticle Scale Patterns In Hanuman Langur (Semnopithecus entellus) And Grey Slender Loris (Loris lydekkerianus)','J. Gharu and S. Trivedi','3 SEEMA TRIVEDI.pdf','',1,'Hair cuticle scale patterns have been studied in many mammals across the world for purpose of taxonomy, interspecies comparison, species identification etc. Here we present characteristics of cuticle scale patterns, medulla and pigmentation in dorsal guard hairs of Hanuman Langur (Semnopithecus entellus). Though studies have reported these characteristics in S. entellus earlier, this study presents comparison of cuticle scale patterns, medulla and pigments in both adult and infant S. entellus and adult Loris tardigradus lydekkerianus.','Cuticle, hair, Langur, Loris tardigradus lydekkerianus, medulla, scales, Semnopithecus entellus','The present study shows that hair cuticle scale patterns are not significantly different in different species of apes including young ones of S. entellus except differences in distance between scales and scale margins. However, pigmentation and medulla are different in different age groups. Scale patterns are different between the two families of primates i.e. Lorisidae and Cercopithecidae where scales are imbricate and elongate in Lorisidae compared to regular and or irregular wave pattern in Cercopithecidae. However, the most distinguishing feature is medulla which is ladder like in Lorisidae but simple and discontinuous or fragmental in Cercopithecidae. Thus a combination of scale patterns, pigmentation and medulla are necessary for identification of hairs.\r\n\r\n','Identification and characterization of organisms has been done on basis of many features including morphology. Hair morphological characteristics have been used for developing keys for identification of species for purpose of taxonomy, comparative studies and forensic studies (De Marinis et al.. 1993).\r\n Though some studies on hair cuticle scale patterns and medulla characteristics have been done in primates in India (Alfred et al. 2009, Sarkar et al. 2011), there has been no study on comparison of hairs from new born infant and adult monkeys especially with reference to Semnopithecus entellus, commonly called as Hanuman Langur or Grey Langur (Cercopithecidae family) to the best of our understanding. The present study was undertaken with the aim to study and compare cuticle scale patterns, characteristics of medulla and pigmentation in dorsal guard hairs from adult and new born S. entellus and seek differences if any between these hairs. Further, the aim of the study was to compare these characteristics with Loris tardigradus lydekkerianus commonly called Grey Slender Loris (Loridae family) to identify any characteristic differences between hairs from two different families of class Mammalia.\r\n\r\nMATERIAL AND METHOD\r\nSample Collection\r\nDorsal guard hairs were taken from between shoulder blades of adult S. entellus (SE5) from museum specimen kept at Department of Zoology, ML Sukhadia University, Udaipur (Raj.) India; three infants of S. entellus aged 10-12 days (SE1), 1-9 months (SE2), Infant (SE3) and a Still born (SE4) respectively and adult L. tardigradus lydekkerianus from specimens kept in Prof. L. S. Rajpurohit’s laboratory at Department of Zoology, JN Vyas University, Jodhpur (Raj.), India. These hair samples were collected in the year 2012 and processed for analysis between January to March 2013.\r\nCuticle Scales\r\nFor light microscopic examination, hairs were first washed with xylene for few minutes to remove dirt. Hair cuticle scale patterns and scale margins were studied by casting clean hairs on the thin film of polyvinyl chloride (PVC) or polyvinyl acetate (PVA) on the glass slide (Brunner and Coman 1974). After some time when PVC or PVA dried, the hairs were pulled out from the slide and the casts in the mid shaft of hairs were observed under the light microscopes as per methods of Brunner and Coman (1974).\r\nMedulla and Pigment\r\nFor study of medulla, the cleaned hairs were bleached with solution of hydrogen peroxide (70%) and ammonia (30%). The degree of bleaching was modified by changing the length of time in the solution (De Marinis et al. 1993). Hairs were then placed on a slide and mounted with an appropriate reagent like DPX and observed under the light microscope. Hair medulla and pigmentations were also studied by following the methods as described in Goyal and Sahajpal (2009) where hair samples without bleaching were mounted in DPX and cover-slip especially in case of L. lydekkerianus where medulla was visible without treatment. \r\nScale and Medulla Identification\r\nHair cuticle scale patterns, scale margins, scale distance and medulla types were identified based on keys according to Hausman (1920), Burnner and Coman (1974), Debelica and Thies (2009), Goyal and Sahajpal (2009) and keys provided by Crutcher (1978) and FurSkinLink (http://www.furskin.cz/identification.htm).\r\nOBSERVATION AND DISCUSSION\r\nHairs have characteristics which provide diagnostic features that may be useful for taxonomy (De Marinis et al.. 1993). However, in some cases, especially regarding light microscopy examination, these features may not be helpful in distinguishing closely related species for example in case of human and other apes no differences are discernible according to Amaral (2008).\r\n The present study on adult S. entellus (Fig. 1e and f) corroborates with earlier study where cuticle scales are reported as imbricate (Areida et al. 2006, Sarkar et al. 2011), crenate with irregular wave pattern and distant (Sarkar et al. 2011). Hair cuticle scale patterns in L. tardigradus lydekkerianus are imbricate and elongate (horizontally) (Fig.1g) and match the descriptions of Glis glis glis (Hausman 1920) and as seen in Scanning Electron Microscope (SEM) images (Alfred et al. 2009). However, the scales margins in L. tardigradus lydekkerianus are not very smooth (Fig.1g) and appear more or less like even tele-like scales (FurSkinLink). Further, the present study also shows differences with scale patterns observed in L. tardigradus lydekkerianus with other studies where they are described as imbricate and mosaic in Loris tardigradus tardigradus, Loris tardigradus grandis and Loris tardigradus nordicus (Amerasinghe 1983).\r\nThe present study in all three infants of S. entellus shows that the distance between scales is larger compared to the adult (Figs. 1a-d). Further, there are some other differences between young ones of S. entellus where SE2 and SE3 cuticle sale margins are not smooth. Scales are tall in SE3 hairs and mid margins of scales is raised and distance is narrow, thus appearing to be chevron like. Scale rows are regular to irregular in all except appear broken at some places in SE2 and adult monkey.\r\nS. entellus scale margins are not significantly different from Chimpanzee (Inagaki and Tsukahara 1993), orangutan Pongo pygmaeus (Partin et al. 2004a) and Gorilla (Gorilla gorilla gorilla) (Western Lowland Gorilla) except for small distance between scales and rippled edges in (Partin et al. 2004b). Scale patterns are described as imbricate and crenate in Naosalis larvatus (Proboscis Monkey) and Ateles geofferoi (Spider Monkey) (Hausman 1920); SEM studies in other primate hairs like that of Macaca assamensis assamensis, Macaca faciculars aurea (De 1993), Macaca mulatta (De 1993, Alfred et al. 2009), M. radiate, Trachypithecus phyraii, T. johnii, T. geei and Bunopithecus hoolock (Alfred et al. 2009). However, scale patterns (in some of these primates) described on basis of SEM are different from light microscopy based studies in T. pileatus, T. geei, T. johnii and T. phayrei where it is regular wave with smooth and distant margins except in T. johnii where it is crenate (Sarkar et al. 2011). Further, the present study also shows differences with scale patterns described as imbricate and mosaic in Macaca sinica, Presbytis entellus thersites and Presbytis senex (Amerasinghe 1983). Scale patterns of Chrysothrix sciurea (Squirrel Monkey) and Simia satyrus (Orang) are imbricate and flattened (Hausman 1920) and thus show some differences with those of S. entellus hair scales.\r\nApparently S. entellus and L. tardigradus lydekkerianus hair cuticle scales do not show an angle to the axis of hair and possibly this feature can be used for deciphering S. entellus and L. tardigradus lydekkerianus hairs with other monkey/primate hairs. For example, Douc langurs Pygathrix cinerea, P. nemaeus and P. nigripes and the Tonkin snub nosed monkey (Rhinopithecus acunculus) in Vietnam show differences only in scale height were scales of R. acunculus are smaller than the Pygathrix species. The cuticles scales are irregular, vary in different regions of hair but have smooth to crenate edges. In P. nemaeus, the scales are long and form a flat mosaic and are at a right angle to the axis of the hair. In P. cinerea scales are usually rectangular to the long axis of the hair but at the tip the strong bent in scales forms chevron pattern. In P. nigripes the only marked differences is chevron pattern in the mid hair at times which is not seen at the base of tip of hairs. In Rhinopithecus avunculus the scales are at right angle to the axis of hair, are smooth to slightly crenate at the base but in mid hair are usually crenate at the tip (Stefen and Szokoli 2010). There are few interspecies differences in hair characteristics of members from Galagoninae family (Anderson 2001). From the images provided in the paper, it appears that scales have smooth margins.\r\nLike previous study on S. entellus (Sarkar et al. 2011), chimpanzee (Inagaki and Tsukahara 1993) and Gorilla (Gorilla gorilla gorilla) (Western Lowland Gorilla) (Partin et al. 2004b), both adult and infant S. entellus have simple medulla (Figs. 2a and c) except that in gorilla medulla is wide (Partin et al. 2004b). However, the present study shows differences in medulla and pigmentation in hair samples obtained from different ages of S. entellus. \r\nIn the still born, medulla is not visible and the hair is heavily pigmented (dark brown) (SE4, Fig. 2b) compared to discontinuous medulla in infant (Fig. 2a) with hair having brown pigment which is lighter than still born and fragmental medulla in adult (Fig. 2c) where there is scattered light grey pigment visible in the hair. However, medulla is different from T. pileatus where it is uniserial ladder, interrupted medulla in T. geei, T. johnii and T. phayrei (Sarkar et al. 2011) and orangutan Pongo pygmaeus but narrow medulla (Partin et al. 2004a).\r\nThe present study shows similarity of L. tardigradus lydekkerianus medulla with T. pileatus (Sarkar et al. 2011) as it is interrupted uniserial ladder like (Fig. 2d), and ladder like in hairs of subfamily Cercopithecinae [Mandrillus sphinx, M. leucophaeus, Cercocebus torquatus (not regular) and C. a. lunulatus] (Inagaki and Yamashita 1994). Light grey pigmentation is seen in L. tardigradus hair (Fig. 2d), thus, L. tardigradus lydekkerianus shows differences with medulla of S. entellus but similarity in pigmenation. \r\nMedulla of S. entellus is also different from Japanese monkey Macaca fuscata fuscata as it is not continuous and some hairs (especially in thin hairs) may not have medulla (Inagaki 1986). Dense and discontinuous medulla is reported in lesser ape Cercopithecus aethiops and Pongo pygmaeus has intermediate and fragmental medulla. Human hairs have intermediate and fragmental yet dense medulla (Clement et al. 1981). \r\n','J. Gharu and S. Trivedi (2013). Hair Cuticle Scale Patterns In Hanuman Langur (Semnopithecus entellus) And Grey Slender Loris (Loris lydekkerianus). Biological Forum – An International Journal 5(2): 11-15. '),(4505,'122','Butterfly Fauna of Jhilmil Jheel Conservation Reserve, Haridwar, Uttarakhand, India','R. Tewari* and G.S. Rawat','5 DR R TEWARI.pdf','',1,'The Jhilmil Jheel Conservation Reserve is located between Haridwar-Najimabad highway and river Ganges in Uttarakhand. The spectacular terai landscape of the study area is a mosaic of short and tall grasslands, tropical mixed moist deciduous forests, and secondary scrub. This Conservation Reserve was recently rediscovered (2005). This happens to be the first ever sampling of butterfly fauna of the area. Based on the study of butterfly diversity in the said reserve and adjacent area, a checklist has been prepared. The list includes 134 species belonging to 81 genera and 8 families','Butterfly taxonomist, Pollard Walk Method, terai, wetland','The Jhilmil Jheel Conservation Reserve is located between Haridwar-Najimabad highway and river Ganges in Uttarakhand. The spectacular terai landscape of the study area is a mosaic of short and tall grasslands, tropical mixed moist deciduous forests, and secondary scrub. This Conservation Reserve was recently rediscovered (2005). This happens to be the first ever sampling of butterfly fauna of the area. Based on the study of butterfly diversity in the said reserve and adjacent area, a checklist has been prepared. The list includes 134 species belonging to 81 genera and 8 families ','Butterflies have always been a subject of interest, and they are probably next only to birds in their universal popularity. This is partly attributable to the great variety and beauty of their colour patterns and partly to their dramatic transformation during their life cycle and the interesting phenomena of mimicry and migration (Behera 2012). India is believed to host about ‘2500 species and subspecies of butterflies’ (Kunte 2010). A study carried out in the 614 km2 area of Dudhwa Tiger Reserve, Uttar Pradesh, has revealed the presence of 81 butterfly species (Behera 2012). Khanal (2008) reported 85 species from four districts of Western Nepal Terai covering an area of 9768 km2. Khanal (2006) also identified 54 species in 175 km2 area of Koshi Tappu Wildlife Reserve, Eastern Nepal.\r\nHere we report the diversity of butterflies from the newly discovered Jhilmil Jheel Conservation Reserve which is a saucer shaped wetland located between Haridwar–Najimabad highway and the River Ganges, in Chidiyapur Range of Haridwar Division, Uttarakhand (Fig. 1). It covers a total area of 37.83 km² of Reserve Forest and elevation ranging from 200 to 250 meters above MSL (Anonymous 2005). The spectacular terai landscape of the study area is a mosaic of short and tall grasslands, tropical mixed moist deciduous forests, and secondary scrub. Throughout the landscape, shifting of river channels over time has left behind many old channels where numerous seasonal and perennial swamps (‘tals’) or wetlands occur. The central swamp zone represents one such oxbow lake. The area experiences sub-tropical climate. Such distinctive environmental circumstances with rich floral assortment and wholesome climate (44°C and 2°C; 45-80% relative humidity and rainfall ranging from 1050 to 1550 mm per annum) forms a favourable habitat for insects in general and butterflies in particular.\r\nMATERIAL AND METHODS\r\nSurvey of the butterfly fauna in the Jhilmil Jheel and its surrounding area was conducted from 2006 to 2009 as a part of research work for preparing management plan of the Conservation Reserve. Yearly survey was categorized into three seasonal durations, the pre monsoon (March-May), monsoon (June-October), and post monsoon (November to February). Pollard Walk Method (Pollard 1977; Pollard and Yates 1993) was followed for recording the butterflies while walking along fixed paths in the Conservation Reserve area. The observation width was limited to 3m. Butterflies were observed throughout the day from 08:00 h to 04:00 h, quarterly in three seasons. Each record in the field was photographed for reference. Each photograph was then identified with the help of field guides (Wynter Blyth 1957; Gay, Kehimkar and Punetha 1992; Haribal 1992; Kunte 2000; Kehimkar 2008) and butterfly taxonomist. Classification was followed after Evans (1932). \r\nRESULTS AND DISCUSSION\r\nDuring the study, a total of 28 species belonging to 25 genera under 4 families were collected from the Conservation Reserve (Table 1). Nymphalidae showed the maximum species richness, comprising of 14 species (50%), followed by Lycaenidae (7 species, 25%), Pieridae (6 species, 21%) and Papilionidae (1 species, 4%). One of the identified species is listed in Schedule I of the Indian Wildlife (Protection) Act, 1972 - the Common Pierrot (Castalius rosimon Fabricius) and one is listed in Schedule II – Peacock Royal (Tajuria cippus Fabricius). Images a-h, give photographic proof of our butterfly sightings in the Jhilmil Jheel so far (Fig. 2). \r\nAlthough Jhilmil Jheel attains primary concern for its rich mammalian and avian resources, the area shows a rich assemblage of butterflies. The preference of butterflies for a particular habitat is often linked with the larval or adult food source. The rich diversity of butterflies, especially the nymphalids and lycaenids in Jhilmil Jheel indicates a varied assemblage of floral species, particularly among the forested vegetation. Occurrence of these listed butterflies indicates the potential of this Conservation Reserve area to harbor varied environmental conditions that in turn can support further bioresources. \r\n','R. Tewari* and G.S. Rawat (2013). Butterfly Fauna of Jhilmil Jheel Conservation Reserve, Haridwar, Uttarakhand, India. Biological Forum – An International Journal 5(2): 22-26. '),(4506,'122','Evaluation of Some Botanicals on Root – Knot Nematode (Meloidogyne javanica) in Tomato (Lycopersicon esculentum, Mill) in Yola Adamawa State, Nigeria\r\n','G.T. Ojo, and I. Umar','7 DR UMAR.pdf','',1,'Laboratory and screen house experiments were carried out to evaluate the effect of two botanicals- Oil palm fibre and cocoa bean testa in the control of root knot nematode (M. javanica) on tomato. Approximately 100 eggs and juveniles were dispensed into petridishes containing both the crude and diluted extracts of the botanicals except the control which contained only distilled water. .In the screen house 10, 20 and 30 g (equilvalent to 5.7, 11.4 and 17.1 t/ha respectively) of powdered plant material was applied on top of soil in form of mulch to each pot except the control which received no treatment. Carbofuran a chemical nematicide was used as a check and applied at the rate of 1 g/cm3 of soil. The results in both experiments indicated that cocoa bean testa crude extract gave the best egg hatch inhibition (only 8 % of eggs hatched after 96 hrs), recorded highest juvenile mortality of 100 %, and recorded the highest growth parameters and least nematodes population. It is recommended that Cocoa bean testa extracts and powder be tried in the field before recommending to tomato farmers for the control of M. javanica. ','Oil palm fibre, cocoa bean testa, eggs, juveniles, M. javanica','The results of the study showed that cocoa bean testa crude extract and powdered mulch in the screen house was able to inhibit egg hatch, caused larval mortality and reduced the population of nematodes in potted tomato plants. It is recommended that field trials be carried out to determine its efficacy before recommending to tomato farmers','Tomato (Lycopersicon esculentum, Mill) is the second most cultivated vegetable crop in the world, after potato, with an annual production of nearly 100 million tons of fresh tomatoes in 3.7 million ha worldwide, China, USA and Turkey are the leading producers (FAO, 2004). It is a short duration crop, high yielding, economically attractive and its area of cultivation is increasing daily (Sharkara et al., 2005).The fruit contain antioxidants, vitamins and minerals, and can be processed into juices, ketchup, puree, eaten raw in salads or cook into stew (Beutner et al., 2001). \r\nRoot knot nematodes (Meloidogyne spp) are one of the major root pests of tomato worldwide and limit its production (Sikora and Fernandez, 2005). Crops infected by nematodes especially vegetables such as tomato record yield losses of up to 80 % on heavily infested soils (Kaskavalci, 2007). In Nigeria a yield loss of between 28-68 % was reported in tomato fields (Adesiyan et al., 1990). \r\nChemical nematicide is one of the most fastest and effective nematode control methods, but they are detrimental to both humans and the environment and are relatively unaffordable to the average small scale farmer (Washira et al., 2009). There is therefore the need to develop alternative methods of control that are cheap, environmentally friendly and not harmful to humans. The use of botanicals is one of the alternative methods suggested by nematologist for nematode control. Botanicals such as Azadirachta, Eucalyptus, Chrommelina, Sida acuta and Targetis have been found to be effective in the control of nematodes in cowpea, tomato and egg plant fields (Umar et al., 2010).These botanicals not only control nematodes but also improve the soil productivity and crop yield by several folds. The objective of the study was to evaluate the effectiveness of cocoa bean testa and oil palm fruit fibre on the control of M. javanica in laboratory and screen house. The botanicals are cheap, available and environmentally friendly form the basis of the research. \r\nMATERIALS AND METHODS\r\nExperimental site\r\nThe experiment was carried out in the laboratory and screen house of the Department of Crop Protection, Modibbo Adama University of Technology, Yola. Yola lies between latitude 8oN and 11oN, longitude 11.5oE and 13.5oE at an altitude of 185.9 m above sea level (Bashir, 2000).\r\n \r\n\r\nPreparation of extracts\r\nThe plant materials for the experiment were Cocoa bean testa and oil palm fruit fibre. Cocoa bean testa was ground into powder using pestle and motar. Oil palm fruit fibre was burnt with fire to obtain the ash. The extract was obtain using the methods described by Adegbite and Adesiyan (2005) as follows:- 50 g of each plant material was weigh separately and soaked in 1000 ml flask containing 500 ml of distilled water for 24 hrs. This was then filtered using Whatman No. 2 filter paper to obtain the crude extract. Serial dilution was then carried with 5, 10 and 15 ml distilled water.\r\nPhytochemical analysis of plant materials\r\nPhytochemical analysis of the plant materials was carried out in the laboratory using the methods described by Sofowora (1993); Trease and Evans, 1989).\r\nExtraction of eggs\r\nEggs were extracted using the methods described by Hussey and Barker (1973) as follows:-Egg masses collected from roots of tomato cv Roma VF were shaken with 0.5 % sodium hypochlorite in a 250 ml stopper flask for 2 min. Eggs were washed by rinsing with tap water over a 75 µm sieves and collected over a 26 µm sieve. The eggs were washed into a beaker forming egg suspension. \r\nExtraction of juveniles of M. javanica\r\nRoot knot nematode (M. javanica) was identified using the head and stylet morphology described in Eisenback et al. (1981). It was then maintained on tomato cv Roma VF and second stage juveniles were extracted from galled roots using the methods described by Whitehead and Hemming (1965).\r\nEffect of extract on egg hatch of M. javanica\r\n100 eggs suspensions contain in a 10 ml syringe were dispensed into petri dishes. 5, 10 and 15 ml of the crude extract and diluted form were separately added into petri dishes except the control which contain distilled water and eggs only. There were 9 treatments replicated three times (T1 – oil palm crude extract, T2- oil palm crude extract + 5 ml of distilled water, T3- oil palm extract + 10 ml of distilled water, T4- oil palm crude extract + 15 ml distilled water, T5- cocoa bean testa crude extract,T6- cocoa bean testa crude extract + 5 ml distilled water, T7- cocoa bean testa crude extract + 10 ml distilled water, T8- cocoa bean testa crude extract + 15 ml distilled water, Con- Control). Petri dishes were arranged in a complete randomized design in the laboratory. Percentage egg hatch was observed over a period of 96 hrs. \r\nEffect of extract on juvenile mortality of M. javanica\r\n100 juvenile suspensions of M. javanica contain in a 10 ml syringe were dispensed into petri dishes. 5, 10 and 15 ml of the crude extract and diluted form were separately added into petri dishes except the control which contain distilled water and juveniles only. There were 9 treatments replicated three times (T1 – oil palm crude extract, T2- oil palm crude extract + 5 ml of distilled water, T3- oil palm extract + 10 ml of distilled water, T4- oil palm crude extract + 15 ml distilled water, T5- cocoa bean testa crude extract,T6- cocoa bean testa crude extract + 5 ml distilled water, T7- cocoa bean testa crude extract + 10 ml distilled water, T8- cocoa bean testa crude extract + 15 ml distilled water, Con- Control). Petri dishes were arranged in a complete randomized design in the laboratory. Percentage juvenile mortality was observed over a period of 96 hrs. \r\nScreen house experiment\r\n4 kg sterilized sandy loam soil was filled into 20 cm diameter perforated plastic buckets with depth 30 cm. Four week- old tomato seedlings cv Roma VF raised in sterilized soil in the nursery was transplanted into each pot. 1000 juveniles suspensions of M. javanica contain in a syringe were inoculated into each pot by exposing the roots and emptying the syringe. 10, 20 and 30 g (equilvalent to 5.7, 11.4 and 17.1 t/ha respectively) of powdered plant material was applied on top of soil in form of mulch to each pot except the control which received no treatment. Carbofuran a chemical nematicide was used as a check and applied at the rate of 1 g/cm3 of soil. Super hydro–solution organic fertilizer containing macro and micro elements was applied thrice at the rate of 1 ml/ litre of water every forth night using 5 litre sprayer. There were 8 treatments replicated thrice. Pots were arranged in a complete randomized design in the screen house. Data were collected on growth parameters and yield. Galls were rated using the rating scheme described by Sasser et al. (1984). Nematode were extracted and counted using the methods described in Barker (1985). All data collected were subjected to analysis of variance and Duncan’s New Multiple Range Test was used to separate means at 5 % level of probability.\r\nRESULTS AND DISCUSSION\r\nFig. 1 shows the effect of different concentrations of oil palm fibre and cocoa bean testa powder extracts on M. javanica egg hatch inhibition in the laboratory. The result indicated that crude extract of cocoa bean testa (T5) gave the best inhibition (only 12.1 % of the egg hatched), followed by T6 (16.8.%) and T7 (24.3%) respectively. The result indicated that cocoa bean testa extract was more effective than oil palm extracts. Also the higher the dilution of the extracts the lower their inhibitions against egg hatch. This shows that as dilutions increases the toxicity decreases and hence decreased in percentage egg hatched. The control recorded 100 % egg hatch because it contained only distilled water. The inhibitory effect of the extract could be as result of their phytochemical content (Table 1) which has ovicidal property. Adegbite (2003) reported that extracts that contained alkaloids and flavonoids have ovicicidal property against Meloidogyne eggs. \r\nFig. 2 shows effect of various concentrations of the powder extracts of oil palm fibre and cocoa bean testa over a period of 96 hrs. All the extracts whether crude or diluted caused significant larval mortality compared to control. The crude extract of cocoa bean testa (T5) gave the best result (100 %), followed by its dilution T6 (88.7) and oil palm fibre crude extract (T1) 85.1 % respectively. The result of the study indicated that the higher the dilution the lower the larval mortality and vice versa. The control recorded the lowest mortality (1.8 %) because it was only distilled water. Nematicidal property of these extracts could be as result of their high phytochemical (saponins, flavonoids and glycocides) content or oxygenated compounds which have been characterized by their lipophylic properties that enable them dissolve the cytoplasmic membrane of nematode cells and their functional groups interfering with enzyme protein structures of nematodes (Knobloch et al., 1989; Trifone and Atanasov, 2009). The result obtained showed Cocoa bean testa contained these phytochemicals while oil palm fibre lacks alkaloids and flavonoids as shown in Table1. \r\nThe application of the powder of plant materials as mulch in screen house pots gave significantly different results among the various rates applied. The results indicated that plants treated with 17.1 t/ha of cocoa bean testa powder gave the best result in all growth parameters (plant height, number of leaves, number of fruits and fruit weight) measured for both years (Tables 2 and 3) and higher dry matter accumulation, fewer galls and low population of nematodes recorded compared to oil palm fibre treated plants. The cocoa bean teata powder applied as mulch might have been lethal to nematodes larvae. The powder probably acted directly on the second stage juveniles in the soil, thus reducing the number of motile juveniles available to penetrate the roots of tomato plants in the screen house. This result was similar to those obtained by Agbenin, et al. (2005) on tomato when they used some botanicals to control M. incognita. The control recorded the lowest growth rates, high galling due to nematode activity at root zone resulting in giant cell formation, high population of nematodes because the nematodes larvae were able to penetrate roots freely and reproduce without any inhibition. The low growth parameter performance by the control plants could be as result of the combined effect of nematodes and availability of nutrients (Netcher and Sikora, 1990). \r\n','G.T. Ojo, and I. Umar (2013). Evaluation of Some Botanicals on Root – Knot Nematode (Meloidogyne javanica) in Tomato (Lycopersicon esculentum, Mill) in Yola Adamawa State, Nigeria. Biological Forum – An International Journal 5(2): 31-36. \r\n');
INSERT INTO `pdf_upload` VALUES (4507,'122','A Review on the Molecular Study of the Species of Family Sciuridae (Rodentia: Mammalia)','Archana Bahuguna and Ashutosh Singh','8 DR A BAHUGUNA.pdf','',1,'There are 250 species of the squirrels residing globally with rich biodiversity in tropical countries. Very little information is available about their status, distribution and phylogeny. An extensive deforestation and poaching are the major threats to the species of family Sciuridae. Molecular study is one of the very effective tools for identification of the species hence in their conservation. The present review describes the utility of this tool in phylogeny, the population study and in status survey done to a limited extend in their range of distribution by using Cyt b, Cyt Oxidase, c-myc and RAPD techniques by various workers.','Conservation, molecular study, phylogeny, Sciuridae','The molecular study i.e. cyt b gene, cyt oxidase. C myc, RAPD analysis, done by many workers globally indicate that such studies are useful in phylogeny, resolving taxonomic problems, differentiation of hybrid population and in providing information about the behavior of the species of family sciuridae and their status survey. \r\nHowever, very few molecular studies have been done in tropical countries, with high deforestation particularly in the South and Southeast Asia, where the most endangered squirrels occurs. There is a need to do molecular study in case of species of squirrels residing Asian countries.\r\n','Squirrels, the small active, bushy-tailed mammals acquired the name from the Greek for “shade-tailed”. Squirrels are commonly known as “Shekhri”. The squirrel family Sciuridae is one of the largest families of mammals. There are 250 species of squirrels and are divided into two groups- those that live in trees and those that live on the ground. It contains an abundant and diverse group of species that have been the subject of numerous and important studies on behaviour, ecology, reproductive biology and morphology. Sciurids are among the best understood mammals in this regards (Steppan et al. 2003). Moreover the Sciuridae are found throughout the world (absent only from southern South America, Madagaskar and Australia), and their diverse habitats, from dense forest to open deserts, make them very useful for study of mammalian adaptation to temperature extremes and resource scarcity and of development of behaviors in different environments. However the utility of this body of knowledge is compromised by an incomplete understanding of their phylogenetic relationships.\r\nUntil recently (Mercer & Roth, 2003), no comprehensive phylogeny of the family has been published, although a number of morphological systematic studies have been done (Black, 1972; Moore, 1959; Thorington et al. 2002). \r\nKoprowski & Nandini in 2008 reported that the tropics particularly the forests of south and Southeast Asia are hotspots of squirrel diversity, but \r\n\r\nthis region generates the fewest scientific publications on squirrels. Moreover they reported that the most endangered squirrels occur in tropical countries with high deforestation rates and flying squirrels are more at risk than tree squirrels. They recommended that due to high diversity, extinction risk and lack of knowledge of sciurid in the tropics, increased efforts should be done to know their status and biology. \r\nAccording to Herror et al. (2003), the squirrel family Sciuridae is one of the largest and most widely dispersed families of mammals. In spite of the widespread distribution and conspicuousness of this group, phylogenetic relationships remain poorly understood. They used DNA sequence data from the mitochondrial cytochrome b gene of 114 species in 21 genera to infer phylogenetic relationships among sciurids based on maximum parsimony and Bayesian phylogenetic methods. Although they evaluated more complex alternative models of nucleotide substitution to reconstruct Bayesian phylogenies none provided a better fit to the data than the GTR+G+I model. They used the reconstructed phylogenies to evaluate the current taxonomy. At essentially all levels of relationships they found the phylogeny of squirrels to be in substantial conflict with the current taxonomy. At the highest level, the flying squirrels do not represent a basal divergence and the current division of Sciuridae into two subfamilies is therefore not phylogenetically informative. \r\nAt the tribal level, the Neotropical pygmy squirrel Sciurillus, represents a basal divergence and is not closely related to the other members of the tribe Sciurini. At the genus level, the sciurine genus Sciurus is paraphyletic with respect to the dwarf squirrels (Microsciurus) and the Holarctic ground squirrels (Spermophilus) are paraphyletic with respect to antelope squirrels (Ammospermophilus), prairie dogs (Cynomys), and marmots (Marmota). Finally, several species of chipmunks and Holarctic ground squirrels do not appear monophylectic, indicating a need for reevaluation of alpha taxonomy.\r\nSteppan et al. in 2003 said that although the family Sciuridae is large and well known, phylogenetic analyses are scarce. They reported on a comprehensive molecular phylogeny for the family. Two nuclear genes (c-myc and RAGI) comprising approximately 4500 bp of data (most in exons) were applied for the first time to rodent phylogenetics. Parsimony, likelihood and Bayesian analyses of the separate gene regions and combined data revealed five major lineages and refuted the conventional elevation of the flying squirrels (Pteromyinae) to subfamily status. Instead flying squirrels are derived from one of the tree squirrel lineages. C-mycindels corroborate the sequence based topologies. The common ancestor of extant squirrels appears to have been arboreal, confirming the fossil evidence. The results also revealed an unexpected clade of mostly terrestrial squirrels with African and Holarctic centers of diversity. They presented the revised classification of squirrels and demonstrated the phylogenetic utility of relatively slowly evolving nuclear exonic data even for relatively recent clades.\r\nIn order to investigate phylogenetic relationships of the family Sciuridae living in Japan, they sequenced partial regions (379 bases) of mitochondrial 12S rRNA genes in six species of Japanese and other Asian squirrels. Phylogenetic trees constructed by sequence data indicated that two genera of flying squirrels (Petaurista and Pteromys) were clustered in a group distinct from non-flying squirrels, suggesting a possible monophyletic relationship of these flying squirrels. The evolutionary distance between the Japanese squirrel (Sciuruslis) from Honshu Island and the Eurasian red squirrel (Sciurus vulgaris) from Hokkaido island was comparable to intraspecific distances of the remaining species examined (Oshida et al. 1996)\r\nIn a study by Piaggio (2001), there are currently 25 recognized species of the chipmunk genus Tamias. In this study they sequenced the complete mitochondrial cytochrome b (cyt b) gene of 23 Tamias species. They analyzed the cyt b sequence and then analyzed a combined data set of cyt b along with a previous data set of cytochrome oxidase subunit II (COII) sequence. Maximum-likelihood was used to further test the fit of models of evolution to the cyt b data. Other sciurid cyt b sequence was added to examine the evolution of Tamias in the context of other sciurids. Relationships among Tamias species are discussed, particularly the possibility of a current sorting event among taxa of the South western United States and the extreme divergences among the three subgenera (Neotamias, Eutamias, and Tamias).\r\nLee et al. in 2008 said that, twenty-five chipmunk species occur in the world, of which only the Siberian chipmunk, Tamiassibiricus, inhabits Asia. To investigate mitochondrial cytochrome a sequence variations and population structure of the Siberian chipmunk in northeastern Asia, they examined mitochondrial cytochrome b sequences (1140 bp) from 3 countries. Analyses of 41 individuals from South Korea and 33 individuals from Russia and northeast China resulted in 37 haplotypes and 27 haplotypes, respectively. There were no shared haplotypes between South Korea and Russia northeast China. Phylogenetic trees and network analysis showed 2 major maternal lineages for haplotypes, referred to as the S and R lineages. Haplotype grouping in each cluster was nearly coincident with its geographic affinity. In particular, 3 distinct groups were found that mostlyclustered in the northern, central and southern parts ofSouth Korea. Nucleotide diversity of the S lineage was twice that of lineage R. The divergence between S and R lineages was estimated to be 2.98-0.98 Myr. During the iceage, there may have been at least two refuges in South Korea and Russia - northeast China. The sequence variation between the S and R lineages was 11.3%, which is indicative of specific recognition in rodents. These results suggest that Tamias sibiricus from South Korea could be considereda separate species. However, additional information, such as details of distribution, nuclear genes data or morphology, is required to strengthen this hypothesis\r\nIn 2004, Oshida et al., studied phylogenetic relationship among five species of the genus Petaurista (P. alborufus, P. elegans, P. leucogenys, \r\n Bahuguna and Singh 39\r\n \r\nP. petaurista and P. philippensis) was investigated using the complete cytochrome b gene sequence (1140 bp). Phylogenetic tree indicated (1) P. alborufus castaneus from southern China was closely related to P. petaurista albiventer from Pakistan, (2) P. alborufuslena from Taiwan, P. petaurista melanotus from China and Laos, and P. philippensis grandis from Taiwan were grouped and (3) P. leueogenys which is endemic to Japan, distinctly separated from other species. Their result critically refuse the present classification in Petaurista and suggest that it is reasonable to regard P. alborufuslena as a distinct species from P. alborufus castaneus and P. petaurista albiventer as a distinct species from P. petaurista melanotus. \r\n Selonen et al. in 2005 studied microsatellite loci in the Siberian flying squirrel (Pteromys volanus). It is an arboreal rodent that inhabits spruce-dominated forest. The species has declined in Finland, probably due to modern forestry. They studied genetic variation in the flying squirrel (n = 159) between eight sampling sites in Finland using seven microsatellite loci. Heterozygosity levels were similar in the flying squirrel as found for other Sciurid species. There were slight heterozygote excesses over all loci. Isolation by distance was clear and genetic differentiation between sampling sites was high. Radio telemetry studies by them revealed that the dispersal abilities of flying squirrels were good. But the high differentiation between sampling sites indicated that the actual gene flow over large distance was low, thus they emphasized the importance of landscape-level-management in the conservation of flying squirrel.\r\n According to Yu et al., (2006) with modified DNA extraction and purification protocols, the complete cytochrome b gene sequence (1140 bp) were determined from degraded museum specimens. Molecular analysis and morphological examination of cranial characteristics of the giant flying squirrels of Petaurista philippensis complex (P. grandis, P. hainana, and P. yunanensis) and other Petaurista species yielded new insights into long-standing controversies in the Petaurista systematics. Patterns of genetic variations and morphological differences observed in this study indicate that P. hainana, P. albiventer, and P. yunanensis can be recognized as distinct species, and P. grandis and P. petaurista are conspecific populations. Phylogenetic relationships reconstructed by using parsimony, likelihood, and \r\nBayesian methods reveal that, with P. leucogenys as the basal branch, all Petaurista groups formed two distinct clades. Petaurista philippensis, P. hainana, P. yunanensis, and P. albiventer are clustered in the same clade, while P. grandis shows a close relationship to P. petaurista. Deduced divergence times based on Bayesian analysis and the transversional substitution at the third codon suggests that the retreating of glaciers and upheavals or movements of tectonic plates in the Pliocene–Pleistocene were the major factors responsible for the present geographical distributions of Petaurista groups.\r\nPhylogeographic relationship among five Callosciurus species (C. caniceps, C. erythraeus, C. finlaysoni and C. prevostii) from Southeast Asia were inferred from partial mitochondrial cytochrome b gene sequences (1,800 bases pairs). Maximum parsimony (MP), neighbor-joining (NJ) and maximum likelihood (ML) trees showed very similar branching patterns although the phylogentic position of C. caniceps in NJ trees showed very similar branching patterns, although the phylogenetic position of C. caniceps in NJ tree was different from those in MP and ML trees. The five Callosciurus species were clustered in two lineages : one cluster consisting of C. caniceps, C. erythraeus and C. finalaysoni (79% bootstrap value in MP tree and 57% support value in ML tree) and the other cluster consisting of C. nigrovittatus and C. prevostii (100% bootstrap values in MP and NJ trees and 100% support value). Based on morphological and zoogeographical data, Callosciurus was previously categorized into two groups: the mainland unit and Sundal unit. The study done by Oshida et al. in 2001 supports this hypothesis. Phylogenetic relationship and divergences estimated from molecular data suggested that early divergences between two lineages might have occurred during Miocene and that subsequent divergence in each lineage might have taken place during the Pliocene (Oshida et al. 2001).\r\nYu et al. investigated in 2004 that the genetic diversity between the populations of woolly flying squirrels (Eupetaurus) from the eastern and western extremes of the Himalayas. They analyzed the partial mitochondrial cytochrome b gene sequences (390-810 bp) that were determined from the museum specimens using maximum parsimony (MP) and maximum likelihood (ML) methods. \r\n \r\n\r\nThe molecular data revealed that the two specimens that were collected in northwestern Yunnan (China) were members of the genus Eupetaurus. Reconstructed phylogenetic relationships showed that the populations of Eupetaurus in the eastern and western extremes of the Himalayas are two distinct species with significant genetic differences (12%) and diverged about 10.8 million years ago. Eupetaurus is significantly different from Petaurista and Pteromys. Considering the divergence time of the two Eupetaurus groups, the glaciations and the uplift of the Himalayas and Qinghai-Tibet plateau during the Pliocene-Pleistocene period might be the major factors affecting the present distribution of Eupetaurus along the Himalayas.\r\nOshida et al. (2000) elucidated the phylogenetic relationships among four species belonging to the genus Petaurista (P. alborufusc astaneus, P. alborufuslena, P. leucogenys leucogenys, P. leucogenys nikkonis, P. petaurista melanotus, and P. philippensis grandis), they investigated the partial sequences (1,068 bp) of the mitochondrial cytochrome b gene for these giant flying squirrels. Phylogenetic trees (NJ, MP, and ML trees) constructed from cytochrome b sequences indicated that P. leucogenys was grouped independently with other species, and that P. philippensis was most closely related to P. petaurista with 99–100% bootstrap values. In addition, two subspecies of P. alborufus did not form a single clade: P. alborufus castaneus from China was most distantly related to the other species, whereas P. alborufus lena from Taiwan was closely related to P. petaurista and P. philippensis with 82–90% bootstrap values. This result suggests that it is reasonable to regard P. alborufus lena as a distinct species from P. alborufus castaneus.\r\nIn a study done by Yu et al. in 2008 the analyses of the mitochondrial cytochrome b gene (1140 bp) showed that Dremomys lokriah, D. pernyi, D. pyrrhomerus, D. rufigenis and D. gularis all are separate species. Dremomys pyrrhomerus showed 8.5% sequence variation from D. rufigenis, and the level of estimated sequence divergence observed among D. gularis, D. lokriah and D. pernyi was > 11%. With Tamiops and Callosciurus as the outgroup taxa, in both maximum likelihood and Bayesian analyses, the five Dremomys species formed one strongly supported monophyletic group and D. pyrrhomerus is closely related to D. rufigenis. \r\nThe derived divergence times and fossil record suggested that the present geographical distributions of Dremomys owe much to the uplifting of the Himalayas and the successive glacial and interglacial in the Pliocene–Pleistocene.\r\nIn India 27 species of squirrels have been reported. Most of them are data deficient and under threat due to poaching and habitat destruction.Among the species present in India Ratufa indica (Erxleben), Ratufa bicolor (Sparrman) are under Schedule II, Ratufa macroura (Pennant), Petinomysfus cocapillus (Jerdon) are under Schedule I and Funambulus palmarum (Linn.) is under Schedule IV of IWPA. And all of them including Petaurista petaurista (Pallas), Petarista philippensis (Elliot) are data deficient. Ratufa indica is also listed under Appendix II of CITES, as VU (Nationally), DD (Globally) under CAMP; Ratufa macroura listed as EN under RDB, EN (Nationally), DD (Globally) under CAMP and under Appendix II (CITES). Ratufa bicolor is listed under Appendix II (CITES), VU (Nationally) and DD (Globally) under CAMP. The Travancore Flying Squirrel (Petinomysfus cocapillus) is a flying squirrel found in South India and Sri Lanka. Travancore flying squirrels were thought to be extinct but rediscovered in 1989 after a gap of 100 years. Gundia is one of the only three important locations in Karnataka where the Travancore Flying Squirrel (Petinomysfus cocapillus) is recorded according to scientific studies by wildlife biologists of Mysore University (Ananthakrishnan, 2006; Rajamani et al., 2008).\r\nThere are very few studies in India regarding their status and ecology. They are also killed for their fur (Bahuguna, 2007; Bahuguna, 2008). In India, some of the studies have been done for their identification through primary guard hair (Bahuguna, 2007; Bahuguna, 2008; Bahuguna et al., 2010a; Bahuguna, 2010b) and these studies are useful for providing scientific proof in the court as well as for ecological study. But molecular study is required for providing the scientific proof for the court as well as for ecological studies (for their status, prey-predator relationship).\r\nAccording to Spiridonova et al. (2005), populations of two ground squirrel species, Spermophilus major and S. erythrogenys, from the inter fluvial area of the Tobol and Ishim rivers, where their ranges overlap, have been examined using RAPD-PCR. \r\n \r\n \r\nThey have identified 253 loci, which included taxon-specific markers for S. major and S. erythrogenys as well as markers for geographic populations. Estimation of genetic diversity and construction of phylogenetic relationships were performed using software programs POPGENE, TEPGA, and TREECON. In all, based on morphological traits, animals from the Tobol-Ishim interfluve were assigned to the two parental morphotypes and showed similar levels of genetic variability. However, the total polymorphism level proved to be higher in ground squirrels with the major morphotype than in animals with the erythrogenys morphotype. Nevertheless, the number of rare alleles was high in both cases, constituting about 70% of the total number. Inter population differentiation was considerably higher in S. major δ = 0.50 than in S. erythrogenys δ = 0.41. The genetic differentiation between local samples from the Tobol-Ishim interfluvial area was lower than that between the parental species. A significant part of the genetic diversity of the species examined and animals from the zone of overlapping ranges was accounted for by intra population variability. Animals from the northern and southern parts of the Tobol-Ishim interfluve were characterized by the core traits of S. major and S. erythrogenys, respectively, falling into two distinct clusters in the UPGMA and NJ reconstructions. In addition to three hybrid individuals, identified by the bioacoustic method, three hybrid animals were distinguished using RAPD analysis. These animals earlier were thought to be “pure” species and formed their own clusters in phylogenetic reconstructions. Thus, the RAPD-PCR results directly showed the existence of stable hybridization (20% genetic hybrids) between S. major and S. erythrogenys in the Tobol-Ishim interfluvial area, which is more extensive than inferred previously from morphological and bioacuostic data.\r\nErmakov et al. in 2002 studied four species of ground squirrel—yellow (Spermophilus fulvus), russet (S. major), small (S. pygmaeus), and spotted (S. suslicus)—occur in the Volga region. Between S. major and S. pigmaeus, S. major and S. fulvus, and S. major and S. suslicus, sporadic hybridization was reported. Using sequencing and restriction analysis, they have examined the mtDNA C region in 13 yellow, 60 russet, 61 small, 45 spotted ground squirrels, and 9 phenotypic hybrids between these species. It was shown that 43% of S. major individuals had “alien” mitotypes typical of S. fulvus and S. pygmaeus. Alien mitotypes occurred both within and outside sympatric zones. No alien mitotypes were found in 119 animals of the other three species, which suggests that only one parental species (S. major) predominantly participates in backcrosses. Phenotypic hybrids S. fulvus × S. major and S. major × S. pygmaeus were reliably identified using RAPD–PCR of nuclear DNA. However, they could find no significant traces of hybridization in S. major with alien mitotypes. Analysis of p53 pseudo genes of S. major and S. fulvus that were for the first time described produced similar results: 59 out of 60 individuals of S. major (including S. major with S. fulvus mitotypes) had only the pseudo gene variant specific for S. major. This situation is possible even at low hybridization frequencies (less than 1% according to field observations and 1.4 to 2.7% according to nuclear DNA analysis) if dispersal of S. major from the sympatric zones mainly involved animals that obtained alien mtDNA via backcrossing. The prevalence of animals with alien mitotypes in some S. major populations can be explained by the founder effect. Further studies based on large samples are required for clarifying the discrepancies between mitochondrial and nuclear DNA data, as discussed by Ermakov et al in 2002.\r\nIndividuals of many species cache food to gain direct benefits from consuming their own caches, but individuals of a few species also gain indirect benefits by sharing caches with kin. They investigated whether gray squirrels cache primarily to gain direct benefits or if they also gain indirect benefits by sharing caches with kin. If squirrels share caches with kin, then genetically related squirrels should live near one another and cache near one another to facilitate cache sharing. In contrast, if squirrels cache primarily for direct benefits, then they should clump their caches near the center of their ranges to facilitate cache defense. This study was conducted with 140 squirrels in a 10 ha forest. \r\n \r\n\r\nDNA was extracted from blood samples taken from squirrels, and genetic similarity scores from randomly amplified polymorphic DNA (RAPD) loci were used to measure relatedness. Squirrels were given piles of pecans for caching at six sites and observed from a blind. They recorded the direction squirrels took nuts from piles and at one site determined the location of caches. For male–female comparisons, related squirrels lived significantly closer to one another than unrelated squirrels, but this was not the case for female–female and male–male comparisons. The genetic similarity of neighboring squirrels did not influence the location of caches or the direction that squirrels took nuts from piles. Squirrels clumped their own caches and moved nuts toward their own home range centers. These results suggest that gray squirrels cache primarily to gain direct benefits rather than indirect benefits (Spritzer and Brazeau, 2003).\r\n Tsvirka et al. (2008) reported that genetic diversity in the four east Palearctic ground squirrel species of the genus Spermophilus — S. undulatus, S. parryi (subgenus Urocitellus), S. dauricus, and S. relictus (subgenus Citellus)—was investigated using RAPD PCR with ten random primers. Siberian chipmunk, Tamias sibiricus, was used as an out-group. Molecular markers for different taxonomic ranks were identified, including those for the genera Spermophilus and Tamias, subgenera Urocitellus and Citellus, as well as for each of the four species, S.undulatus, S. parryi, S. dauricus, and S. relictus.\r\n For the ground squirrel species and subgenera, genetic differentiation indices were calculated. In addition, for these groups the NJ phylogenetic reconstructions and UPGMA dendrograms of genetic similarity of the individuals and combined populations were constructed. Comparative molecular genetic analysis revealed a high genetic differentiation between S. undulatus, S. dauricus, S. relictus, and S. parryi, along with a low level of genetic differentiation of the subgenera Citellus and Urocitellus, distinguished in accordance with the existing taxonomic systems of the genus Spermophilus.\r\nAnalysis of Spermophilus pallidicauda Satunin, 1903 from three localities in Mongolia using cytogenetic characteristics (chromosome number and morphology, as well as the number and localization of nucleolus organizer regions) revealed the presence of a first-generation (F1) hybrid animal (2n = 36), of the pale tailed S. pallidicauda (2n = 34) and alashanic S. alaschanicus (2n = 38) ground squirrels in the contact zone of their ranges. Analysis of nuclear DNA from ten ground squirrels (from a set of karyologically examined animals) by RAPD-PCR with eight oligonucleotide primers (OPA10, OPA12, OPC02, OPC05, OPC08, OPC09, OPC12, and OPD05) revealed four hybrids in two sites. The position of the hybrids in phylogenetic reconstructions made for the subgenera Citellus and Colobotis species varied depending on the method used. In the UPGMA dendrogram of genetic similarity hybrids formed their own subcluster with high bootstrap index (949) within the cluster of Citellus species. In the NJ phylogenetic tree, hybrids also clustered with high bootstrap index (886). But in this case they were located between the Colobotis and Citellus species clusters. The mtDNA haplotypes of the three hybrids examined were highly similar to the Colobotis ground squirrels, albeit in phylogenetic reconstructions they were placed between Colobotis and Citellus. The sites of the hybrid animals identification were located more than 200 km apart. Hence, the contact zone between the S. pallidicauda and S. alaschanicus can encompass a large territory in Mongolia (Tsvirka et al., 2006)\r\nAntolinet al. in 2001 studied that Piute ground squirrels (Spermophilusmollis) are distributed continuously in habitat dominated by native shrubs and perennial grasses in the Snake River Birds of Prey National Conservation Area in Idaho, U.S.A. This habitat is being fragmented and replaced by exotic annual plants, changing it to a wild fire-dominated system that provides poor habitat for ground squirrels. To assess potential effects of this fragmentation on ground squirrel populations, they combined an estimate of effective population size (Ne) based upon a demographic study with a population genetic analysis. The study area included three subpopulations separated from each other by 8.13 km. The ratio of effective population size to census number (Ne/N) was 0.57. Combining Ne/N with dispersal distances from a radio-tracking study, they calculated that neighborhood size was 62.2 ha, which included between 204 and 480 individuals. The population genetic analysis (based on randomly amplified polymorphic DNA (RAPD) and microsatellite markers) showed relatively low levels of genetic differentiation between subpopulations and no inbreeding within subpopulations (f = 0.0003). \r\nThese estimates of population subdivision translate into an effective migration rate (Nem) of 2.3-3.3 per year, which represents a high level of gene flow. Invasion by exotics will reduce the overall productivity of the habitat, and will lead to isolation among subpopulations if favorable habitat patches become isolated.\r\nThe red squirrel (Sciurus vulgaris L.) is widespread in Lithuania; it lives and nests in deciduous and coniferous forests. Genetic diversity of 20 Lithuanian red squirrels from 11 locations in Lithuania was examined using a random amplified polymorphic DNA (RAPD) method. Ten random primers were used for amplification. Reproducible amplification patterns were obtained using six primers. In total, sixty-three amplification patterns were generated during analyses. Fifty-five (87.3%) of them were polymorphic. Visual examination of electrophoresis gels and analysis of banding patterns showed that the studied red squirrels are genetically quite different. Clustering analysis did not indicate any differentiation among study sites, a correlation between genetic and geographical distances was not detected either. These findings proved that the Lithuanian population of red squirrels is heterogenic. RAPD analysis revealed high-level genetic diversity within Lithuanian red squirrels (Paulauskas et al., 2006). Trizio et al. (2005) investigated the genetic variability of the red squirrels using mitochondrial DNA mt(DNA) and microstallite. Both mitochondrial and nuclear DNA data indicated the significant correlation between genetic and geographical distance .Twenty six haplotype were detected. The main aim of the study was to investigate genetic diversity of the red squirrels from different area of Lithuania using Random amplification polymorphic DNA, RAPD methods and the results of this analysis showed that the high level diversity of RAPD marker in Lithuanian red squirrels. \r\n','Archana Bahuguna and Ashutosh Singh (2013). A Review on the Molecular Study of the Species of Family Sciuridae (Rodentia: Mammalia). Biological Forum – An International Journal 5(2): 37-46.'),(4508,'122','Anatomical and Histological Structure of Digestive Tract of Adult Platynotus belli. F (Coleoptera: Tenebrionidae)','A.B. Sarwade and G.P. Bhawane','9 ASHA & DR GP BHAWANE.pdf','',1,'The digestive tract of adult Platynotus belli. is anatomically divided into short foregut, long midgut and hindgut which opens outside through anus. Histologically foregut and hindgut showed outer circular and inner longitudinal muscle layers followed by basement membrane and epithelium. Inner most layer is intima. Midgut consists of outer muscularis and inner columnar epithelium with peritrophic membrane surrounding gut content. Malphigian tubule shows single layer of cuboidal epithelium. Crop and salivary glands are absent in this beetle.','Digestive tract, Adult Platynotus belli.','The digestive tract of adult Platynotus belli. is anatomically divided into short foregut, long midgut and hindgut which opens outside through anus. Histologically foregut and hindgut showed outer circular and inner longitudinal muscle layers followed by basement membrane and epithelium. Inner most layer is intima. Midgut consists of outer muscularis and inner columnar epithelium with peritrophic membrane surrounding gut content. Malphigian tubule shows single layer of cuboidal epithelium. Crop and salivary glands are absent in this beetle.','The organs and process of digestion in insects shows great variations due to the variation in consumption of food materials. The successful adaptation of an insect to a particular food as its source of nutrients, essential for growth, development, reproduction and population maintenance & requires a unique combination of behavioral, physiological and biochemical processes (Slansky, 1982). The gut length is generally correlated with diet. Generally the insects which consume higher protein containing diet have shorter gut (Pradhan, 1939). The morphology and histology of alimentary canal of different groups of coleopteran is a matter of interest of a number of authors including Talbot (1928), Miller (1961), Mukherji and Singh (1973). \r\nIn Coleopterans generally short straight and tubular foregut is present and can be devided in to anterior short pharynx, and a narrow tubular oesophagous. At the joining of foregut and midgut proventriculus may be present (Ekis and Gupta, 1971) with well developed armature. In coleopterans it function as a grinding organ or as a valve. In many insects it forms a storage organ called crop. The crop is usually absent or very slightly developed in beetle larvae and polyphagous adults, where as usually present in adult Adephaga (Crowson, 1981). The crop may also serve as a site for preliminary or more complete digestion.\r\n Midgut is the largest and longest diversion of the alimentary canal. As midgut is endodermal in origin hence shows absence of chitinous lining. It is well established that the midgut of insects secretes most of the digestive enzymes and is the principal site of digestion (Gilmour, 1961; Dadd, 1970; Wigglesworth, 1972). \r\n\r\nIn coleoptera midgut is long and coiled in adults like Trypodendron lineatum (Schneider and Rudinsky, 1969), Cephalodesmis armiger (Lopez Guerrero, 2002). In some species of Meloidae the midgut is morphologically differentiated into broad anterior and narrow posterior regions. In some species of Cleridae is divided in to anterior, middle and posterior regions based on differences in size and shape also midgut is covered by small papillae, which are the outward projections of crypts. The papillae contain regenerative cells (Chapman, 1998).\r\nHistologically midgut in insects shows three types of epithelial cells as described by Shinoda (1930) which includes columnar, goblet and regenerative cells showing variation in functions in various insects. (Lewis, 1926; Waterhouse, 1952 and Wigglesworth, 1965). Various authors have reported the presence of goblet cells in the Lepidopteron and Coleopteran larvae and described their fine structure and functions (Chapman, 1985; Santos et al., 1984). The presence of goblet cells has also been reported in the midgut epithelium of Ephemeroptera, Plecoptera and Trichoptera (Chapman, 1972).\r\nHindgut, the last part of digestive system initiates with ileum followed by colon and rectum and ends exteriorly with anus. The hindgut is lined by thin layer of permeable cuticle which avoids loss of useful substance (Maddrell and Gandiner, 1980). Histomorphological details of alimentary canal have been investigated in several species of coleopterous insects (BalfourBrowne, 1934, 1935; Jones, 1940; Swingle, 1950; Gupta, 1965; Berberet and Helms, 1972; Kumar and Adjei, 1975). \r\n Malphigian tubules are the excretory organs in insects at the junction of midgut and hindgut. \r\nThe malphigian tubules become closely associated with the rectal pads so that the two water absorbing systems are placed in series. This system is seen in Coleopterans and in most larval lepidoptera and in some larval symphata. Palm (1949) gives a general survey of the rectal pads or rectal glands in different orders of insects. In Thysanura, Odonata, Orthoptera and Phasmida. Malphigian tubules are composed of single layer of cells and show two layers in Neuroptera, Hymenoptera, Lepidoptera and Diptera. However, members of largest order Coleoptera are relatively neglected from such studies. Only scanty information is available on the anatomy and digestive histology of some Coleopterans. Earlier literature indicates, there is no information on the P.belli. the species under study.\r\nPlatynotus belli is a ground beetle which feeds on various types of foods and occasionally becomes pest on flour and stored grains. A number of extensive work have been published on stored product beetles, the more important of them include those of Hinton (1948), Lepesme (1944) and Aitken (1975). The information available indicates that the studies pertaining to histomorphology of digestive tract and digestive enzymes in the flour beetles is scanty. Therefore, to overcome the lacunae, the efforts were made to study histomorphology of alimentary canal of P.belli. in order to provide basic knowledge about digestive enzymes and the system this can be useful for controlling the pest.\r\nMATERIAL AND METHODS\r\nA. Collection and maintenance of experimental animal\r\n The experimental animal Platynotus belli. F for the present investigation was collected from their natural habitat from Kolhapur city, Maharashtra, India. They were reared and maintained under laboratory conditions throughout the investigation period (2006-2007). This is to make sure that the sufficient enzyme source for carrying out various aspects of enzymes. \r\nAdults were maintained in the earthen pots containing loose moist mixture of sand and soil in equal parts as per the method proposed by Blume and Aga (1975). Maximum 50 beetles were reared successfully in each pot. \r\nLowest layer of pot was provided with medium size stones in order to provide crevices for the beetles to facilitate their burrowing habit. Wheat flour was provided as a food for the beetles during rearing. Water was given with the help of wet cotton balls. This method was found to be suitable for feeding and maintenance of adults. The adults were utilized for histomorphological and biochemical studies.\r\nB. Tissue preparation for histological studies \r\nThe adults of Platynotus belli.F were dissected in chilled insect ringer solution under stereoscopic dissecting binocular microscope. The alimentary canals were removed and for their gross anatomical structures, measurements were taken. Then various parts of alimentary canal were fixed in different fixatives for 24 hours. The tissues which were fixed in Bouins fixative after 24 hours were washed under running tap water for 12 hours to remove excess fixative and then gradual dehydration of tissue was carried out using ethyl alcohol. The tissues which were fixed in steives fixative were washed in 50% alcohol and transferred to 70% alcohol containing enough iodine for 5 to 8 hours. This step was followed by gradual dehydration as usual. After dehydration the tissues were cleared in xylene, infiltrated and embedded in paraffin wax (520C – 540C). The tissues were sectioned at 5 to 7 μm thickness. The sections were stained with haematoxylene – Eosin (Delafield) method. After staining observations were made and microphotography was done. \r\nRESULTS AND DISCUSSION\r\nAnatomy: Alimentary canal of P.belli showed the characterisitics of Coleopteran. It is long simple, tube with varying diameter and runs along mouth to anus passing from head, thorax and abdomen. It is connected with the body wall in head region by muscles, elsewhere supported by the tracheal branches. The main structures of the alimentary canal are easily distinguishable and it is divided into foregut or stomodaeum, midgut or mesenteron and hindgut or proctodaeum. The length of alimentary canal of is 2 – 2.5 folds that of body length as it measures about 58 – 62 mm long where as length of whole body is 25 – 30mm long. The morphometry of alimentary canal is given in Table 1.\r\n \r\n \r\n \r\n\r\nForegut: Foregut occupies 3.3% of the total length of alimentary canal. It is very short & it almost confined to the head capsule. It consist three regions, preoral cavity, pharynx and oesophagous. The buccal cavity is a very short space just for the conduction of food to the pharynx. It is lined by a thick layer of intima with a brush of stout hair i.e. spiny intima. The pharynx & oesophagous together constitutes a uniform tube measures about half mm in diameter. Crop is absent in this beetle. Posterior most part of the foregut is proventriculus which gradually increases half mm in diameter and further extends in to lumen of midgut.\r\nMidgut: Midgut / Mesenteron is the longest part of alimentary canal extending from the anterior region of prothorax to the seventh abdominal segment, where it forms a loop and combines with the hindgut. Midgut is the main site of secretion, digestion and absorption of the nutrients. It measures about 34mm in length. Diameter of midgut decreases as it tapers towards hindgut. It is about 2mm in diameter which varies in accordance with the quantity of food it contains.The junction between midgut and hindgut is demarcated by origin of malphigian tubules. \r\nHindgut: Hindgut is divided in to anterior intestine and posterior intestine. These parts are thrown in to two coils. The anterior intestine is 1mm in diameter and it is narrower than the mesenteron and consists of coiled ileum and colon. The posterior intestine or rectum shows straight tubular structure and it is narrower than the anterior intestine. Hindgut comprises 26mm in length. Malphigian tubules are present in this region showing cryptonephric arrangement. Rectum further proceeds in to a narrow anal canal, about half mm in diameter and 4mm in length, which externally opens into an anus.There are no salivary glands observed in P. belli.\r\nAnal canal: The epithelium is very much folded and is made up of small cuboidal cells with round nuclei.\r\n It is supported by a basement membrane. It bears thick intima internally and very well developed muscle layer externally. The musculature includes inner, longitudinal muscles at the base of folds and outer thick coat of circular muscles \r\nMalphigian tubules: There are in all six malphigian tubules divided in to three groups, each group containing two of them. \r\nHistology:\r\nForegut: Histologically structure of foregut shows the typical coleopteran pattern. It is externally surrounded by muscularis made up of few strands of outer circular and inner longitudinal muscle layers followed by basement membrane and epithelium. Circular muscle layer is thicker than longitudinal muscle layers. Epithelium is thrown in to six longitudinal folds. It consists of single layer of flattened epithelial cells with indistinct basement membrane. The inner most layer is intima which is thick and chitinous showing folds along with the epithelial layer. Intima is non – cellular layer which lines entire foregut forming longitudinal folds with the epithelial layer. The intima of anterior foregut shows well developed spiny processes. \r\nCardiac valve: The cardiac or stomodaeal valve is an everted portion of the posterior end of the stomodaeal wall, projecting in to the ventriculus or mesenteron. The epithelium consists of tall columnar cells with oval nuclei. It is lined by smooth intima without any special structure like proventricular teeth, pad or spines. The junction between foregut and midgut is marked by dilation of the midgut due to shallow invagination of the cardiac valve. \r\nMidgut: Histologically structure of midgut shows the following tissues to be much same in size and structure throughout. i.e. epithelium of endoderm cells supported by a basement membrane, inner circular muscles and outer longitudinal muscles.\r\n \r\n \r\nThe cells of epithelium are tall, columnar with distinct cell membranes and conspicuous, centrally placed nuclei. Epithelium is supported by basement membrane and its apical portion bears striated border. The striated border of the cells disappears in the secretary phase showing holocrine secretion. The regenerative cells are small lie at the bases of functional cells in groups at regular interval and, scattered throughout the length of the ventriculus. Striated circular muscle fibers surround the epithelium.\r\nThe ventricular wall gives out numerous small pouch like diverticula, the gastric caecae. They are distributed throughout the wall of the ventriculus. Some of them are completely embedded in the circular muscle layer. In the section they appear as it filled with small darkly stained nuclei. The food content is enclosed in a peritrophic membrane\r\nHindgut: Anterior intestine: Even though not marked externally, histologically the anterior intestine is in the tract forms the demarcating zone of midgut and the anterior intestine divisible in to anterior ileum & colon.\r\nIleum: Histologically the muscularis includes poorly developed outer longitudinal muscles and inner thick coat of circular muscles. The epithelium of ileum consists of cuboidal cells supported by a prominent basement membrane. The nuclei of the epithelial cells are small & round. The intima is thin, chitinous and is provided with small spines \r\nColon: Histologically colon bears thick circular and longitudinal muscles covering and is lined internally by thick layer of chitinious intima. The epithelium is made up of cuboidal cells with very large oval prominent nuclei with well defined cell boundaries and internally lined with thick layer of chitinous intima \r\nPosterior intestine: The posterior intestine, rectum is divided in to anterior rectum and posterior rectum. The epithelium of rectum bears broad folds and is made up of large cuboidal cells with large round nuclei. Internally, the epithelium is lined by thick intima and externally by isolated few longitudinal and well developed circular muscles. The longitudinal muscles are thrown into six external lengthwise bands give somewhat hexagonal appearance to the rectum. There are no salivary glands observed in P.belli.\r\nAnal canal: The epithelium is very much folded and is made up of small cuboidal cells with round nuclei. It is supported by a basement membrane. It bears thick intima internally and very well developed muscle layer externally. \r\n\r\nThe musculature includes inner, longitudinal muscles at the base of folds and outer thick coat of circular muscles. \r\nMalphigian tubules: Each malphigian tubule is unbranched tube, having uniform diameter throughout its length. The tubes run forward on the midgut and then turn posterior and forms series of convolution around the hindgut. The section of malphigian tubule show single layer of cuboidal epithelium. The cells contain large nuclei. Externally there is a thin connective sheath. The cells of the proximal region are larger, where as distal region are flattened. \r\nThe digestive gut shows resemblance with some of the coleopteran species like Polyphylla decemlineata, Tribolium confusum, Tenebrio moliter. ( Hafeez and Gardiner 1964; Gerber, 1976). The gut is divided in to foregut, midgut and hindgut. Similarly in Pseudaletia sequax (Gongalves, 1981), Danais archippus (Burgess, 1880), Hyalophora cercropia (Judy & Gilbert, 1970). In other beetles like Holotrichia serrata, Holotrichia Fissa, Leucopholis lepidophora and Chiloloba orientalis, the general anatomy of digestive system seems to be similar as in P.belli. (Berberet & helms, 1972). \r\nLength of the digestive gut depends on the feeding habit of the insect. Adults of P.belli feed on the decaying matter. In culture it was provided with wheat flour. It has been observed that length of alimentary canal is 2.5 times that of body length of P.belli where as in other beetles like H.serrata reported 3-4 times longer alimentary tract and 5-6 times longer in L.lepidophora. In some insect’s digestive gut is found to be very long as compared to body length such as eight times longer in Phanaeus vindex, and ten times longer in Canthon pilularis and Dichotomius carolinus. The entire digestive tract is not much longer than the body length in O. rhinoceros (Gressitt, 1953). \r\nForegut in P.belli is very short tube which simply acts as a passage for the transfer of food from preoral cavity to the active site of digestion i.e. to the midgut. This is true for all most of the beetles studied so far (Bacton ,1930, Swingle, 1950; Berberet & Helms, 1972; Edmonds 1974) . Crop is absent in the beetle under study as shown in other tenebrionids like Tribolium anaphe, Tribolium castaneum and Tribolium confusum (Hafeez & Gardiner, 1964).\r\n Midgut is longest part of alimentary canal, comprising 58.33% of total gut length. Diameter of midgut decreases as it tapers towards hindgut showing anterior and posterior midgut regions morphologically. \r\n\r\nFerreira et, al. (1981) has reported midgut divided in two subdivisions morphologically in Rhynchosciara fly. The hindgut in scarabaeid beetles, may be long or short depending upon the species. In P.belli hindgut is last part of alimentary canal divided into anterior and posterior intestine consisting of ileum, colon and rectum. In beetles the larvae and adults consist of anterior intestine, ileum and posterior colon and rectum. (Becton 1930, Swingle, 1950; Berberet and Helms, 1972).\r\nIn the present species, salivary glands are absent as in majority of Coleopteran. Similar observations were made by Kumar and Adjei (1975) in Lucicola discicolis, O. philemon, O. catta, C.arrowi, and L. rhadamistus.\r\nHistology of foregut of adult Platynotus belli is comparable with the histology of other Coleopteran type studied, as it posses the basic plan i.e. well developed muscularis, basement membrane, epithelium thrown in to longitudinal folds with internal intima and formation of cardiac valve by invagination of epithelial folds in the lumen of midgut at foregut – midgut junction. (Berberet and Helms, 1974). The syncitial epithelium in the foregut of Hister (Sexena, 1966) and foregut as well as hindgut of Cybister limbatus seems to be an artifact due to fixation because of thick intima. The indistinct cell boundaries were also observed in the boll weevil (Chadbourne, 1961). On the contrary, the cell boundaries are very distinct in all parts of alimentary canal of P.belli. The intima of pharynx of this species show similar caudally directed spines as in other beetles. (Becton, 1930; Jones, 1940; Swingle, 1950). The oesophageal intima of P.belli is devoid of spines.\r\nAs far as histology of midgut is concerned, it is a constant feature of Coleopteran ventricules i.e. columnar secretary epithelium with prominent nuclei and striated border which is observed in P.belli. The epithelium is thrown in to number of longitudinal folds to ensure the efficient digestion and absorption of food by increasing the cell number and surface area. According to Snodgrass (1935) in many Coleoptera, a large portion of ventriculus is covered with small papilliform or sometimes elongate diverticula, but these structures in most cases are the crypts of epithelial regenerative cells rather true caeca. But in P.belli large number of nucleated vesicles is given off in the lumen from these papilliform gastric cacea.\r\nIn the present species, on the free border of epithelial cells, secretion of globules was observed indicating holocrine secretary nature. Bhave (1981) in Dineutus indicus observed vesicles in the lumen of the caecae, which were filled with secretary matter. Snodgrass (1935) felt that, the subject must be studied from a physiological stand point before these conclusions could be finally accepted. In P. belli epithelial cells are replaced by regenerative cells scattered in the general epithelium at regular intervals. The peritrophic membrane was very thin membrane surrounding the gut content of midgut in P. belli. It is secreted by cells at the base of reflexed layer of cells of cardiac or oesophageal valve. The peritrophic membrane was first reported by Aubertot (1934) in Pieris brassicae. It surrounds the food material separates it from the midgut wall and protects the midgut epithelium from the injury. Such membrane is found many insects (Wigglesworth, 1930; Swingle,1932; Berberet and Helms, 1972). Moreover peritrophic membrane is freely permeable to the digestive enzymes and the products of the digestion.\r\nIn P.belli hindgut is devided in to two parts, they are anterior intestine / rectum. The epithelium shows longitudinal folds in ileum and colon and is made up of cuboidal cells with prominent nuclei. The epithelium is lined internally by thick intima (Snodgrass, 1930; Swingle, 1930; Jones, 1940; Gressitt, 1953). The muscularis is much more developed in the hindgut than foregut and midgut. The circular muscle layer is very thick layer. However, the outer longitudinal muscles are very few. The rectum is found to be typical insectan type, the section of rectum shows folded epithelium and thicker intima than colon having well developed muscularis. In P.belli it is a narrow passage connecting the rectum with anus.\r\nPresence of six malphigian tubules opens laterally into the anterior end of intestine in P.belli is similar in those observed by Burgess (1880) and Pyle (1940). It shows single layer of large epithelial cells, bounded externally by basement membrane. \r\n','A.B. Sarwade and G.P. Bhawane (2013). Anatomical and Histological Structure of Digestive Tract of Adult Platynotus belli. F (Coleoptera: Tenebrionidae). Biological Forum – An International Journal 5(2): 47-55.'),(4509,'122','Nectar resource use by Butterflies in Gir Wildlife Sanctuary, Sasan, Gujarat','Meeta Sharma and Noopur Sharma','10 DR MEETA SHARMA.pdf','',1,'Butterflies are known to be the most fascinating creatures existing on this earth and have a great aesthetic value. They are in close relation with the plant species as they procure nectar from flowering plants to meet their energy requirements while butterflies serve to be pollinators for various plant species which is the only means of their propagation. Hence in order to understand the butterfly-flower interactions, the present study was conducted in Gir Wildlife Sanctuary, Sasan, Gujarat to determine the numerous host plants associated with these beautiful butterflies. An extensive entomological survey for a period of two years in the forest area of Gir was undertaken. Out of the 50 butterfly species recorded in Gir, 27 species (54%) used nectar while other species obtained their food from non-floral resources such as mud, wet soils and cow dung. Highest number of butterflies were recorded in Lantana camara (19), followed by Asclepias syriaca (10), Tamarindus indica (6), Diospyros melanoxylon (5) and Ixora arborea (5) respectively.','Butterflies, Nectar, Pollinators, Gir wildlife sanctuary, Host plants, Food','Butterflies are known to be the most fascinating creatures existing on this earth and have a great aesthetic value. They are in close relation with the plant species as they procure nectar from flowering plants to meet their energy requirements while butterflies serve to be pollinators for various plant species which is the only means of their propagation. Hence in order to understand the butterfly-flower interactions, the present study was conducted in Gir Wildlife Sanctuary, Sasan, Gujarat to determine the numerous host plants associated with these beautiful butterflies. An extensive entomological survey for a period of two years in the forest area of Gir was undertaken. Out of the 50 butterfly species recorded in Gir, 27 species (54%) used nectar while other species obtained their food from non-floral resources such as mud, wet soils and cow dung. Highest number of butterflies were recorded in Lantana camara (19), followed by Asclepias syriaca (10), Tamarindus indica (6), Diospyros melanoxylon (5) and Ixora arborea (5) respectively.','Plants are a food source for many insects and animals; some plants play host to caterpillars whereas other plants provide sustenance for butterflies. Butterflies help to pollinate plants in return. Insects visit flowers to obtain food, usually in the form of pollen or nectar. The plants obtain the services of pollinators in carrying pollen from one flower to another (Proctor et al., 1996). Butterflies are often considered opportunistic foragers that visit a wide variety of available flowers. However their choice of flower is not random and they exhibit distinct flower preference which can differ between species (Jennersten, 1984). The choice of plants as nectar sources by butterflies depends on various factors including innate color preference, corolla depth, clustering of flowers from which nectar can be extracted (Porter et al., 1992). The flower scent is an important signal for butterflies initially to identify and subsequently to recognize and distinguish among rewarding plants. The life cycle of plants, caterpillars and butterflies has closely evolved to ensure the continuation of various plant and animal species. Butterflies are generalists, able to exist in a wide variety of habitats. Most butterflies however are far more specialised, each species having its own particular requirements regarding habitats, temperature, humidity, larval food plants and adult food sources. Most species of caterpillars and butterflies only populate specific plant families. Host plants are the types of plants that butterflies choose to populate with their larvae. When a caterpillar changes into a butterfly, it will populate various types of other plants for food. Each category of pollinator is associated with a syndrome of dependent floral characteristics (size, shape, and reward). \r\nThe flora of Gir comprises of many flowering and non-flowering plants which appear during rains. The vegetation changes along with west to east axis. The various plant consists of herbs (40.43%), trees (21.12%), shrubs (16.67%), climbers (14.19%) and grasses (7.59%) (Kumar and Meena, 2012). Many of these plants serve as hosts for various stages of butterfly life cycle. The consideration of Gir came into picture because of the fact that it has become a very stable ecosystem with tremendous regenerating, self supporting and self sustaining capacity due to its rich and diverse flora and fauna. Also, it is a potential place to be a centre for creating environmental awareness and imparting nature education (Kumar and Meena, 2012). It supports a varied topography means a corresponding variety of microclimates, rainfall patterns, plant distributions, wetlands and therefore the butterfly distributions. The majority of species occur in fair close proximity to their larval food plants. Shahabuddin (1997) has worked on butterfly visitors to 20 plant species in Palni hills, Western Ghats. The environmental conditions of Gir Wildlife Sanctuary differ from it. Hence, the present study gives a picture of the butterfly attracting plant species in Gir that may be helpful in future afforestation programmes. \r\nMATERIALS AND METHODS\r\nThe study area: A systematic study was carried out to find out the food resources of butterflies in Gir Wildlife Sanctuary. Various nes, thana and rivarine sites were selected from eastern and western Gir ranges that come under Wildlife Sanctuary areas i.e. between Latitude 20o 40\' N to 21o 50\' N and Longitude 70o 50\' E to 71o 15\' E ( Krishnan and Guha, 2006). The present study covered an area of 678.45 sq. km in West Gir Wildlife Sanctuary. The study area has rich flora and wild life. The major vegetation consists of Tectona grandis, Wrightia tinctoria, Acacia catechu, Zizyphus mauritiana, Acacia nilotica, Anogeissus latifolia, Acacia leucophloea, Terminalia crenulata, Diospyros melanoxylon, Bauhinia purpurea, Grewia tiliaefolia, A. ferruginea, Boswellia serrata, Lannea coromandelica, and Butea monosperma (Sharma and Johan Singh 1995). \r\nStudy method: The natural vegetation consisting of trees, shrubs, herbs, climbers and grasses were observed to find out the food resources of butterflies, in different seasons. Recording of flower visiting insect species, their foraging behavior, length of the visits and number of flowers visited in unit time was done. All the above data were recorded between 0600 and 1800 hrs. Butterfly species were collected and identified by using standard books of Kehimkar 2008; Gay et al. 1992 and Wynter Blyth 1957. \r\nRESULTS\r\nButterfly Diversity: A total of 50 species of small and large butterflies belonging to four families within an area of 678.45 km2 of Western Gir Wildlife Sanctuary encompassing eighty localities were recorded (Table 1). The most dominant family was Nymphalidae followed by Pieridae, Lycaenidae and Papilionidae. The data indicated that the smallest butterfly recorded was Castalius rosimon (Lycaenidae) and the largest was Pachliopta aristolochiae (Papilionidae). Among the butterflies sampled, Castalius rosimon is enlisted in Schedule-I, Hypolimnas misippus is enlisted in Schedule-I and II and Euploea core is enlisted in Schedule-IV of the Indian Wildlife Protection Act,1972 (Evans,1932; Gaonkar, 1996; Kunte, 2000 & 2008; Larson, 1987 & 1988; Talbot, 1939; Wynter-Blyth, 1957). \r\n The faunal diversity of butterflies was greatly influenced by season, monsoon to late winters being the preferred seasons. However, butterflies of some families were also visible during summers. The most commonly observed species were Danais chrysippus, Junonia lemonias, Junonia hierta, Junonia orithya, Catopsilia pyranthe, Eurema hecabe and Papilio demoleus. They were noticed in all the seasons. \r\nLycaenidae butterflies were dominant during monsoon. Papilionidae were always encountered flying at heights in pair or singly. \r\nNectar resources: Plant species associated with these butterflies were identified as their host plants. Out of the 50 butterfly species recorded, 27 species used nectar while other species obtained their food from non-floral resources such as mud, wet soils and cow dung. Floral nectar of 50 plant species was used as food. The food plants comprised of 27 species of trees, 10 species of grasses, 9 species of shrubs and 4 species of herbs respectively. Highest number of butterflies were recorded in Lantana camara (19), followed by Asclepias syriaca (10), Tamarindus indica (6), Diospyros melanoxylon (5) and Ixora arborea (5). Five plant species namely Terminalia arjuna, Balanites aegyptica, Bauhinia variegata, Commiphora wightii and Lannea coromandelica were not observed visited by butterflies (Table 2). The flower color and size also influence the visiting insects, therefore majority of butterflies were attracted to white flowers (36.36%). This was followed by yellow (29.09%), red (20%) and green (14.55%) respectively (Fig. 1). Also small sized flowers charmed maximum butterflies (Table 2). Foraging behavior and timings varied among different species. Most of the species remain active in the forenoon (Selvarathinam et al., 2009). Junonia lemonias visited many flowers and spent long durations for collecting nectar. Danais chrysippus was observed the whole day siphoning nectar. On the contrary, swallowtail butterflies like Graphium sarpedon, Pachliopta aristolochiae occasionally visited flowers and spent only 1-2 seconds in a single flower and flew away. The major flower visitors were Euploea core, Phalantha phalantha, Eurema blanda, Anaphaeis aurota and Catopsilia pomona.\r\nNon-floral food source: Species of Pieridae and Papilionidae are generally seen mud puddling (Sreekumar and Balakrishnan, 2001). Catopsilia pyranthe, C. crocale, Anaphaeis aurota, Eurema blanda, Papilio demoleus and Graphium sarpedon were observed mud puddling on wet soil in the monsoon season. Alongside, two species of Nymphalidae viz. Euploea core and Phalantha phalantha were also observed mud puddling at times. Males seem to benefit from the sodium uptake through mud-puddling behavior with an increase in reproductive success. The collected sodium and amino acids are often transferred to the female with the spermatophore during mating as a nuptial gift. This nutrition enhances the survival rate of the eggs (Pivnik and McNeil, 1987; Medley and Eisner, 1996; Molleman et al., 2004).\r\nDISCUSSION\r\nMost butterflies have specific habitat and food requirements. Although adult butterflies are sensitive to their choice of flowers for feeding, most species never visit some flowers (Feltwell, 1986). All the butterflies are not flower visitors, only the highly evolved species whose mouth parts are represented by a long, thin proboscis, is adapted for feeding on liquid diet known as nectar (Wynter-Blyth, 1957). The amount of nectar present in a flower is related to foraging visits of a butterfly. When little nectar is available, visits are short and a butterfly visits many flowers. While when large amounts of nectar accumulate, the butterflies need to spend more time to extract nectar and hence they visit few flowers (Cruden, 1976). This study indicates that Gir proves to be a flourishing habitat for butterflies various life cycle stages (egg to adult). Since butterflies are in close relationship with vegetation, they indicate the floral diversity of a habitat. This diversity, in turn, determines the survival of herbivores and hence the dependent carnivores of that particular habitat. The nature of vegetation is an important factor that determines the survival of herbivores in a particular habitat. Being highly sensitive to changes in environment, butterflies are easily affected by minor changes in the habitat. To maintain a healthy habitat, it is essential to sustain the biodiversity. \r\nHence, to attract butterflies, butterfly attracting plant species listed here may be included in the afforestation programmes. Therefore, protecting butterflies confers protection of coexisting organisms as well. The check-list of host plant species provides suitable route for mass scale breeding of beautiful butterflies species in order to develop a butterfly garden in future studies. Due to various developmental activities, most of the natural habitat of butterflies is under threat. There is need to identify the threats and survival chances of various species by which the conservation programme can be develop. There is a need to further survey work in the other parts of Gir to get the entire spectrum of butterflies and their host plants in this region. It also reiterates the need to have more such unadulterated areas such as National Parks and Wildlife Sanctuaries for long term conservation of rare and endangered flora and fauna.\r\n','Meeta Sharma and Noopur Sharma (2013). Nectar resource use by Butterflies in Gir Wildlife Sanctuary, Sasan, Gujarat. Biological Forum – An International Journal 5(2): 56-63. '),(4510,'122','Species Diversity and Habitat Characteristics of Freshwater Fishes in the Similipal Biosphere Reserve, Odisha with Some New Records','B.K. Baliarsingh*, Laishram Kosygin, S.K. Swain* and A.K. Nayak','11 BK BALIAR SINGH ODISHA.pdf','',1,'A systematic, updated checklist of freshwater fishes of the Similipal Biosphere Reserve is provided with notes on status, distribution and habitat characteristics. It includes 66 species of fishes belonging to 42 genera, 19 families and 6 orders. A total of 24 species are reported here for the time from the reserve. As per IUCN status the fish fauna of the Biosphere Reserve includes one endangered, one vulnerable, 6 near threatened, 42 least concern, and 3 data deficient. The Similipal Biosphere Reserve harbours rich diversity of fishes and water quality of the rivers and streams are suitable for fish and wild life propagation. ','Fish diversity, habitat characteristics, Similipal Biosphere Reserve.','A systematic, updated checklist of freshwater fishes of the Similipal Biosphere Reserve is provided with notes on status, distribution and habitat characteristics. It includes 66 species of fishes belonging to 42 genera, 19 families and 6 orders. A total of 24 species are reported here for the time from the reserve. As per IUCN status the fish fauna of the Biosphere Reserve includes one endangered, one vulnerable, 6 near threatened, 42 least concern, and 3 data deficient. The Similipal Biosphere Reserve harbours rich diversity of fishes and water quality of the rivers and streams are suitable for fish and wild life propagation. ','The Similipal is one of the important biosphere reserves of India, which is situated in the Mayurbhanj district of Odisha (20°17′-22°34′ N and 35°40′-87°10′E). It covers a total area of 5569.00 sq km, which includes core area of 1194.75 sq. km., buffer zone of 1335.86 sq. km. and a transitional zone of about 3038.38 sq. Km. The biosphere reserve is considered as one of the mega biodiversity zones of India with rich population of flora and fauna (Mishra et al., 2011). There are 10,000 people living in 61 villages in the forest of Similipal Biosphere Reserve. The tribal people depend on the resources of the Similipal for their day to day livelihood (Rout and Panda, 2010).\r\nSimilipal is naturally endowed with a rich rivers, streams and magnificent waterfalls like Bareipani, Joranda and Uski. There are many perennial streams flowing in different directions. The streams like Khadkei, Gangahar, Sono, East Deo, Sanj, Palpala flows towards the east, joining the river Budhabalanga which finally drains into the Bay of Bengal. On other hand Khairi, Bandhan, West Deo streams originates from Similipal and joins river Baitarani and Salandi, which drains into Bay of Bengal. There are few streams which drain into river Subarnarekha (Sahu, 1985). Similipal Biosphere Reserve is also blessed with reservoirs like Badajora and Haldia.\r\nThe Similipal Biosphere Reserve has not been extensively surveyed for fish diversity and information about the fish resources of the biosphere reserve is very scanty (Ramakrishna et al., 2006). Dutta et al. (1993) reported Tor putitora, Amblyceps mangois and Clarias batrachus from the Baripada, Similipal Hills. \r\nHowever, knowledge of the diversity and distribution of the fish fauna is essential for designing and implementing conservation strategies (Jadhav et al., 2011). In this paper a systematic checklist of fishes of the Similipal Biosphere Reserve is prepared based on the present study and available literatures. The habitat characteristics of five streams are provided. \r\nMATERIALS AND METHODS\r\nFishes were recorded from 7 water bodies namely Lulung, Joranda, Barehipani, Uski, Devkund, Budhabalanga and Khairi during Sept., 2008 to Aug., 2009 (Fig. 1) and identified following Jayaram (1999), Talwar and Jhingran (1991) and by consulting relevant literatures. Species which were not recorded in the present survey but reported earlier from the Similipal Biosphere Reserve are also included in this report. The families have been arranged phylogenetically and species under a genus followed alphabetic sequence. The correct scientific name with author citation, local name, economic value and status based on IUCN (2010) are shown against each species.\r\nWater samples were collected on quarterly basis from all the 7 water bodies during Sept., 2008 to Aug., 2009. For each season 4 replicate of water samples were collected and the physico-chemical parameters were analysed following standard methods (APHA, 1989, Trivedy and Goel, 1986). The average of four samples for each parameters studied was considered as one reading. The water temperature, dissolved oxygen, pH, were determined in the field and the other parameter like, inorganic phosphorus, nitrate-nitrogen were analysed in the research laboratory of Central Institute of Freshwater Aquaculture, Bhubaneswar within 48 hours of collection. \r\nFish Diversity: A systematic, updated checklist of freshwater fishes of Similipal Biosphere Reserve has been prepared base on present collection and those reported by the earlier workers (Table 1). There are all together 66 species which belong to 42 genera and 19 families and 6 orders. Of these, 42 species belonging to 35 genera and 16 families were recorded during the present study. Cypriniformes has highest diversity with 3 families, 20 genera and 35 species followed by Siluriformes (7 families with 10 genera and 14 species), \r\n\r\nPerciformes (5 families with 5 genera and 10 species), Synbranchiformes (2 families with 3 genera and 3 species), Osteoglossiformes and Beloniformes (1 families with 2 genera and 2 species each) (Fig. 2). Among the families highest species diversity was observed in the Cyprinidae (43.9%) followed by Bagridae (9.1%). As per the IUCN (2010), the fish fauna of the biosphere reserve includes one endangered (EN), one vulnerable (VU), 6 near threatened (NT), 42 least concern (LC) and 3 data deficient (DD). \r\nA total of 24 species of freshwater fishes namely Notopterus notopterus, Amblypharyngodon mola, B. vagra, Danio rerio, Cirrhinus fulungee, Crossocheilus latius, Devario aequipinnatus, Garra gotyla, Puntius amphibius, Puntius conchonius, Salmophasia bacaila, Acanthocobitis botia, Mystus bleekeri, Mystus cavasius, Mystus gulio, Mystus vittatus, Ompok bimaculatus, Strongylura strongylura, Xenentodon cancila, Badis badis, Oreochromis mossambicus, Anabas cobojius, Trichogaster fasciata and Trichogaster lalius are reported here for the first time from the Similipal Biosphere Reserve. \r\nOut of the 37 species reported by Ramakrishna et al. (2006), 9 species namely Laubuca fasciata, Puntius punctatus, Tor putitora, Tor tor, Sperata aor, Alia coila, Eutropiichthys vacha, Amblyceps mangois, Channaorientalis were not recorded during the present study. Of which 3 species may have ambiguous taxonomic status and their identities needed to be verified. Ekaratne (2000) and Pethiyagoda (1991) remarked that Channa orientalis is considered as an endemic species to Sri Lanka and is often confused with Channa gachua (Hamilton). Courtenay Jr. and Williams (2004) noted that C. orientalis differs from C. gachua in lacking pelvic fins and report of the former species from southern India and elsewhere are erroneous. Puntius punctatus was described from Cochin, Kerala by Day (1865). It is considered endemic to the Western Ghats of India (Dahanukar, 2011). Similarly, Laubuca fasciata was described by Silas (1958) from Anamalairiver at Vannanthurai, Kerala. Raghavan and Ali (2011) remarked that the fish is endemic in Kerala, India. Therefore, distributions of these species in the Similipal Biosphere Reserve are doubtful and need to be verified. \r\nHabitat Characteristics: Similipal is naturally endowed with a rich rivers, streams and magnificent waterfalls. The water current is usually high and rapid in all the streams with rate of flow varies during different seasons. The beds of the streams and rivers are generally rocky or sandy. The small sized fishes like Acanthocobitis, Crossocheilus, Garra, Schistura etc. hide themselves below the pebbles and rocks in the shallow water bodies. On the other hand, larger species like Labeo, Cyprinus, Cirrhinus, Chitala, Oreochromis etc. inhabit deeper waters where water currents are comparatively slow. \r\nThe physico-chemical characteristics inside Similipal Biosphere Reserve in different station are summarized in Table 2. It indicates that surface water temperature ranged from 20 to 36.6°C with an average value of 28.3°C. The pH value ranged from 7 to 7.9 with an average of 7.4. High concentration of dissolved oxygen was observed throughout the study period which ranged from 4.6 to 8.5 mg/l with an average value 6.3 mg/l which is within the permissible limit (I.S.I., 1982). However, level of CO2 was slightly high which ranged from 2 to 18 mg/l with an average value 13mg/l.\r\nNitrogen and phosphorus are the basic nutrients, which determine the productivity of water. The river water was moderately enriched with these nutrients and shows well marked seasonal variations. The concentration of dissolved inorganic phosphorus was observed to vary from 0.001 to 0.028 mg/l with an average value of 0.018 mg/l. The nitrate-nitrogen varied between 0.01 to 0.079 mg/l with an average value of 0.045 mg/l. The sources of nutrients in the rivers water may be erosion of fertile soil from the catchment areas and inflow of fertilizers from the surrounding agricultural fields.\r\nThe present findings indicate that the Similipal Biosphere Reserve is blessed with diverse fish fauna including numerous economically important fishes. The water quality of the rivers and streams are not contaminated as the values of pH and DO are within the tolerance limit of Class ‘D’ water prescribed by the I.S.I. (1982) for fish culture and wild life propagation. Therefore, a detail study on the morphology, hydrology and biodiversity of Similipal Biosphere Reserve may be useful for conserving the fish genetic resources.\r\n','B.K. Baliarsingh*, Laishram Kosygin, S.K. Swain* and A.K. Nayak (2013). Species Diversity and Habitat Characteristics of Freshwater Fishes in the Similipal Biosphere Reserve, Odisha with Some New Records. Biological Forum – An International Journal 5(2): 64-70. '),(4511,'122','Taxonomic Update and Relative Abundance Studies on some Cutworms (Family: Noctuidae) in Conifer Forests of Himachal Pradesh with brief account of its Wing Venation and Genitalia','Shweta Thakur*, Pawan Kumar** and V.K. Mattu*','12 PAWAN FRI SHIMLA.pdf','',1,'Subfamily Noctuinae are distributed in Great Plains and Deccan Peninsulas. They can be well examined and identified by their wing venation and genitalia. In the present study, four species Agrotis ipsilon Hufnagel, Agrotis segetum Denis and Schiffmuller, Xestia c-nigrum Linnaeus and Xestia renalis Moore were collected from different conifer forests of Himachal Pradesh. An account of genitalia, wing venation and relative abundance of these species are given and key has been furnished for interspecific discrimination by dwelling upon different morphological and genitalic characters.','Conifer forest, genitalia, wing venation,','Subfamily Noctuinae are distributed in Great Plains and Deccan Peninsulas. They can be well examined and identified by their wing venation and genitalia. In the present study, four species Agrotis ipsilon Hufnagel, Agrotis segetum Denis and Schiffmuller, Xestia c-nigrum Linnaeus and Xestia renalis Moore were collected from different conifer forests of Himachal Pradesh. An account of genitalia, wing venation and relative abundance of these species are given and key has been furnished for interspecific discrimination by dwelling upon different morphological and genitalic characters.','The species of the subfamily Noctuinae are also known as cutworms, because of their habit to cut young shoots below the surface. They are serious agricultural pest of many crops including winter cereals, cotton, clover, beets, potato and onion. Agriculture is the major section of growth in Indian economy. The exact limits for this clade, which Lafontaine (1993) termed the ‘true cutworms’, remain unclear but broadly includes a majority of species in the four largest traditional trifine subfamilies, Amphipyrinae, Hadeninae, Cuculliinae and Noctuinae (nomenclature of Franclemont and Todd, 1983). Based on adult morphology, monophyly of this assemblage seems to have been recognized first by Borner (1953) and Kitching (1984). Beck (1992) subsequently excluded the Amphipyrini of Franclemont and Todd (1983), in agreement with Holloway (1989), while including Franclemont and Todd’s Cuculliinae: Xylenini. Poole (1995), formalizing the ideas of Lafontaine (1993), expanded Beck’s (1992) Noctuinae s.l. to include parts of Amphipyrini plus some of the ‘unassociated genera’ of Amphipyrinae of Franclemont and Todd (1983). Kitching and Rawlins (1999) accepted the monophyly of the Noctuinae s.l. as defined by Poole, but preferred a different classification, treating Noctuinae in the narrower traditional sense, Ufeinae, and Hadeninae s.l. as separate subfamilies. Their expanded, explicitly paraphyletic concept of Hadeninae encompassed all the pieces of the traditional subfamilies Cuculliinae and Amphipyrinae that Poole (1995) placed instead in Noctuinae s.l., including Callopistria and relatives, which Poole separated as Eriopinae. Apart from these proposals, higher-level relationships with the ‘true cutworm’ assemblage have been with the remainder of Poole’s (1995) Noctuinae s.l. During the present study, four species Agrotis ipsilon Hufnagel, A. segetum Denis and Schiffmuller, Xestia c-nigrum Linnaeus, X. renalis Moore from the genus Agrotis and Xestia respectively have been reported from conifer forests and dealt with taxonomic update. Wing venation and genitalic characters of these species have been elaborated and key is furnished for inter-specific discrimination.\r\nMATERIAL AND METHODS\r\nThe moths belonging to the subfamily Noctuinae have mainly been collected by the method designed by Common (1959). The moths were immediately killed with ethyl acetate vapours in insect killing bottles followed by freezing treatment. In order to keep the scales intact on the body of the moths, they were removed from the bottles as soon as they were killed. Each specimen was pinned through the middle line of the thorax. Different types of pins were used for stretching the moths according to the size of specimens. This was preceded by spreading of both the wings on insect stretching boards, followed by their drying, either in the oven (45°C) or in the improvised drying chambers. Followed by the tentative sorting in the field, each specimen was labelled, indicating the locality and date of collection. Resetting is done in the laboratory, by relaxing such specimens in the relaxing chambers (containing carboxylic acid and camphor in the ratio of 3:1), followed by drying in oven. \r\nWing venation: Wing preparations were made as per the method of Zimmerman (1978). To begin with, the process of mounting, the wings were detached from the body of insect and were subsequently dipped in 70 % alcohol. \r\nThen they were transferred into sodium hypochlorite solution. Scales got removed in the solution. The bleached and de-scaled wings were then transferred into distilled water and were washed thoroughly. Washed wings were transferred into stain preparation (10 g chloral hydrate, 5 ml acetic acid, 1g acid fuschin, 100ml of 50 % ethyl alcohol) for twenty four hours. In case of overstaining, the stain can be removed by dipping wings into 95 per cent alcohol and then followed by dehydration in different grades of alcohol. After that wings were cleared in clove oil and mounted in DPX. The drawing of wings was drawn with the help of trisimplex projector.\r\nGenitalia preparation: For the examination of genitalia, the abdomen of the noctuid moth was detached by applying a little jerk in upward direction. The detached abdomen was then put into 10 per cent KOH solution and the same was put in an oven for 10-12 hours at about 45°C in order to soften the chitin and to dissolve away the muscles. The material was then washed in distilled water. After proper washing, material was dissected in 10 per cent alcohol and genitalia were removed carefully with the help of fine forceps and needles, watching under Zoom binocular microscope. For dissection, different processes were followed for removal of male and female genitalia (Martin, 1996). The material was transferred to 30 per cent alcohol and then transferred to stain (chlorozol black E). After staining, material was dehydrated in different grades of alcohol and thereafter transferred from absolute alcohol to \"Euparal essence\" (Euparal Solvent). Genitalia and abdomen were put on a drop of Euparal on a slide and coverslip was placed gently on the preparation, care being taken not to allow the genitalia roll on the slide and prevent bubbles to lodge or material to float out. After mounting, the slides were dried in an oven (45°C) for 48 hrs (Robinson, 1976). The sketches of genitalia were made with the help of a square ocular grid under Zoom Binocular Microscope on the graph paper.\r\n\r\nRESULTS AND DISCUSSION\r\nKey to genera of subfamily Noctuinae\r\n1. Palpi obliquely porrect……………………...Agrotis Ochsenheimer - Palpi not present…… (2)\r\n2. Vein Sc + R, rapidly diverging from the base …………………….…..…........Xestia Hubner\r\nKey to species of the genera Agrotis Ochsenheimer\r\n1. Forewing with area beyond postmedial line somewhat golden, cornuti not restricted in its distribution on the vesica of male genitalia; corpus \r\nbursae of female genitalia not bifurcated.…………………………....ipsilon Hufnagel\r\n- Forewing with area beyond postmedial line not differentiated; cornuti of male genitalia restricted in its distribution; corpus bursae bifurcated into two portions…………………………….. (2)\r\n2. Forewing dark brown, claviform indistinct, antemedial line double distinct, cornuti present in bundle on vesica of male genitalia………................... segtum Denis and Schiffmuller\r\nAgrotis ipsilon Hufnagel Phalaena 1766: 416\r\nSynonyms: Noctua segetum [Denis and Schiffermuller] 1775\r\nAgrotis frivola Wallengren 1860\r\nVenation (Plate 1, Fig. A-B): Forewing with discal cell more than half length of wing, vein Sc straight upto mid-costal region, vein R1 from more than half the region of discal cell, R2 just beyond R1 , R3+ 4 and Rs connate from end of areole. M1 from anterior angle of the cell, M2 and M3 from posterior angle of the cell, Cu1 from little behind the posterior angle of the cell, Cu2 from the one-third region of posterior angle of the discal cell, 1A connate at the base running upto the entire length of wing; Hind wing with discal cell less than half the length of wing, Sc + R1 running upto the apex and approximated with cell at the base, Rs and M1 connate, vein M3 and Cu1 connate from the posterior angle of the discal cell, Cu2 from little behind the posterior angle of the discal cell, 1A and 2A strong running upto the base.\r\nGenitalia ( ) (Plate 1, Fig. C): Uncus curved, sclerotized; tegument sclerotized; valve uniformly sclerotized, distal end conical; harpe well marked; sacculus demarcated; saccus prominent,well developed. Aedeagus short, stout; vesica everted out with two sets of cornuti.\r\nGenitalia ( ) (Plate 1, Fig. D): Ovipositor lobes well developed, sclerotized; posterior apophysis shorter than anterior apophysis; ostium bursae sclerotized, well developed; ductus bursae broad tube like; corpus bursae large, globular, bilobed structure.\r\nWing expanse: : 42- 56 mm ; : 48-60 mm. Material examined\r\nKinnaur : Akpa, 10 -21.4.09 ; 4 - 21.4.09\r\nHamirpur: Chakmoh, 7 -28.4.09 ; 3 - 28.4.09\r\nShimla: Theog, 10 -4.5.09 ; 8 - 4.5.09; \r\nCollector Name: Pawan Kumar, Shweta, Amit\r\nAgrotis segetum [ Denis and Schiffermuller] Noctua, 1775: 81 \r\n Synonyms: Noctua sordida [Denis and Schiffermuller] 1775 Agrotis denticulosa Wallengren 1860\r\n Agrotis lassa Swinhoe 1886 \r\nVenation (Plate 2, Fig. A-B): Forewing with discal cell more than half the length of wing, vein Sc straight upto mid-costal region, vein R1 from the base parallel to Sc, R2 from middle of discal cell, Rs from the origin of stalk of R3+ 4 connate from end of aerole. M1 from anterior angle of the cell, M2 and M3 closely approximated at base, Cu1 from the posterior angle of the cell, Cu2 from little behind the posterior angle of the discal cell, 1A connate at the base, well developed; Hindwing with discal cell less than half the length of wing, Sc + R1 running upto the apex, Rs and M1 connate from the anterior angle of the discal cell, vein M3 and Cu1 connate from the posterior angle of the discal cell, Cu2 from little behind the posterior angle of the discal cell, 1A and 2A strong running upto the base.\r\nGenitalia ( ) (Plate 2, Fig. C): Uncus prominent, sclerotized; tegumen broad, sclerotized; valve simple, uniformly sclerotized; harpe present; sacculus marked; juxta well developed; saccus prominent,well developed. Aedeagus broad, moderately long; vesica everted out , embedded with a bundle of small cornuti.\r\nWing expanse: : 42- 48mm ; : Not studied.\r\nMaterial examined\r\nKinnaur : Akpa, 8 - 21.4.09 ; \r\nHamirpur: Chakmoh, 5 - 16.4.09 ; \r\nShimla: Theog, 10 - 4.5.09 ; \r\nCollector Name: Pawan Kumar, Shweta, Amit\r\nKey to species of the genera Xestia Hubner\r\n1 Forewing has large orbicular and reniform stigmata, the former has triangular and black patches before and after it and latter defined by inner and outer lines……………………. c-nigrum Linnaeus\r\n- Forewing has small orbicular and reniform stigmata, a blackish fascia from the former to the outer margin below apex and latter not well defined by inner and outer lines…………………….….................... (2)\r\n2 Cucullus, valuulla differentiated, harpe long sclerotised forked at tip, juxta dome shaped in male genitalia, corpus bursae of female genitalia sclerotisation on proximal part…….............................……renalis Moore\r\nXestia c-nigrum Linnaeus Phalaena Noctua, 1758: 516 \r\n Synonyms: Agrotis c-nigrum subsp. kurilana Banghaas 1912\r\nAmathes c-nigrum subsp. ignorata Eitschberger 1972.\r\nVenation (Plate 3, Fig. A-B): Forewing with discal cell more than half the length of wing, vein Sc straight upto mid-costal region, vein R1 from one-third region of discal cell, R2 from half the length of discal cell, R3 and R4 are stalked running upto the apex, ,Rs and M1 connate from anterior angle of the cell, M2 and M3 closely approximated at base from the posterior angle of the cell, Cu1 from little behind the posterior angle of the cell, Cu2 from well before the posterior angle of the discal cell, 1A well developed running upto the base; Hindwing with discal cell less than half the length of wing, Sc + R1 running upto two-third of costal region, Rs and M1 connate from the anterior angle of the discal cell, vein M3 and Cu1 connate from the posterior angle of the discal cell, Cu2 from little behind the posterior angle of the discal cell, 1A and 2A strong running upto the base.\r\nGenitalia ( ) (Plate 3, Fig. C): Uncus slightly curved, sclerotized; tegumen broad, sclerotized; valve simple, uniformly sclerotized; saccular region well with a small extension; costa marked, ampulla present. Aedeagus sclerotized, moderately long; vesica everted out, simple. \r\nWing expanse: : 44mm ; : Not studied. \r\nMaterial examined\r\nKinnaur : Akpa, 3 -21.4.09; \r\nHamirpur: Chakmoh, 4 -8.10.08; \r\nShimla: Theog, 7 -4.5.09; \r\nCollector Name: Pawan Kumar, Shweta, Amit\r\nXestia renalis Moore Axylia, 1881: 341. \r\nSynonym: Ochropleura subpurpurea Leech 1900 \r\nVenation (Plate 4, Fig. A-B): Forewing with discal cell more than half the length of wing, vein Sc straight upto mid-costal region, vein R1 from behind the anterior angle of the discal cell, R2 and R3 stalked, parallel to R1, R4 and Rs are stalked from anterior angle of the cell, , M1 from anterior angle of the cell, M2 and M3 closely approximated at base from the posterior angle of the cell, Cu1 from the posterior angle of the cell, Cu2 from well before the posterior angle of the discal cell, 1A well developed running upto the base; Hindwing with discal cell half the length of wing, Sc + R1 arising from the base running upto apex, Rs and M1 connate from the anterior angle of the discal cell, vein M3 and Cu1 from the posterior angle of the discal cell, Cu2 from little behind the posterior angle of the discal cell, 1A and 2A strong ,well developed.\r\nGenitalia ( ) (Plate 4, Fig. C): Uncus moderately developed, bent, tip pointed; valve simple; costa marked sclerotized, cucullus, valvula differentiated outer margin of apex oblique finely decorated with setae, setae thick outer margin weakly rounded then slightly narrower towards sacculus; harpe long, sclerotized with forked tip; juxta dome shaped. Aedeagus moderately long, broad, slender; vesica membranous cornuti, small, anteriorly present to vesica. \r\nGenitalia ( ) (Plate 4, Fig. D): Ovipositor lobes well developed, sclerotized; posterior apophysis shorter than anterior apophysis; ostium bursae sclerotized, well developed; ductus bursae broad, well sclerotized, flat tube like; corpus bursae large, with sclerotization on proximal part.\r\nWing expanse: : 36 mm; : 40 mm.\r\nMaterial examined\r\nKinnaur : Akpa, 1 - 11.6.08\r\nHamirpur: Chakmoh, 1 - 18.6.08\r\nShimla: Theog, 3 - 14.6.09 ; 2 - 14.6.09; \r\nCollector Name: Pawan Kumar, Shweta, Amit\r\nRemarks: This species was again described as new in Moore, 1882: 103 New combination\r\nRELATIVE ABUNDANCE\r\nNoctuinae was represented by 04 species namely Agrotis ipsilon Hufnagel, A. segetum (Denis and Schiffermuller), Xestia c-nigrum Linnaeus and X. renalis Moore which were collected from different conifer forests of Himachal Pradesh. Kail forest, Chir pine forest and Chilgoza forest were studied during June 2008- July 2009. Relative abundance of Kail forest was reported to have the greatest diversity and eveness. As, diversity and eveness is highest, the species are equally abundant in Kail (Pinus wallichiana) forest.\r\n The subfamily Noctuinae is one of the largest subfamily of the family Noctuidae with about 1600 species known worldwide (Speidel et al., 1996). A number of researchers have reported different number of species from different parts of the world. 415 (Soviet Union); 54 (Iraq); 93 (Balkan countries); 23 (Saudi Arabia); 262 (Europe); 96 (Central Europe). \r\nDetailed investigations on taxonomy and biodiversity of Noctuinae in Israel from 1986-2004 by various investigators have resulted into 36 species of which 27 were earlier published in various checklists (Kravchenko et al., 2001; Hacker, 2001; Hacker et al., 2001). 9 new species were: Euxoa conspicua, E. hering, Agrotis psammocharis, A. (Powellinia) boetica, Pachyagrotis tischendorfi, Dichagyris melanuroides, D. amoena, Noctua tertia, Noctua interjecta. \r\nAlthough, Amsel (1933) have also reported 40 species of noctuid moth belonging to this subfamily from different zones of Israel. Recently, Kravchenko et al. (2006) studied the distribution, phenology and ecology of the 76 Noctuinae moths from different parts of Israel. \r\nFour species Agrotis ipsilon Hufnagel, A. segetum Denis and Schiffmuller, Xestia c-nigrum Linnaeus, X. renalis Moore are morphologically similar as far as colour pattern of their mouth parts, but can be differentiated on the basis of wings colour pattern. There is a slight difference in the wing expanse of these species. These four species were identified, by critically examining and comparing the specimens with those of National collection stored at the Entomological Museum of Forest Research Institute, Dehradun. To update the taxonomic characters of these species wing venation and genitalia have been studied in detail. Study of these characters has helped in identifying these species in an accurate manner. Relative abundance of subfamily Noctuinae is calculated by Shannon-Weaver Information Function (D) and Species Evenness (E) to maintain redundancy and resilience in the ecosystem.\r\n','Shweta Thakur, Pawan Kumar and V.K. Mattu (2013). Taxonomic Update and Relative Abundance Studies on some Cutworms (Family: Noctuidae) in Conifer Forests of Himachal Pradesh with brief account of its Wing Venation and Genitalia. Biological Forum – An International Journal 5(2): 71-80.'),(4512,'122','A review on the Studies on Faunal diversity, status, Threats and Conservation of Thar Desert or Great Indian Desert Ecosystem','Gaurav Sharma','13 DR G SHARMA.pdf','',1,'Deserts cover more than one fifth of the Earth\'s land, and they are found on every continent. Far from being barren wastelands, deserts are biologically rich habitats with a vast array of animals and plants that have adapted to the harsh conditions there. The Thar Desert or Great Indian Desert is the world\'s tenth largest desert and forms a significant portion of western India and covers an area of about 2,78,330 sq km, of which 1,96,150 sq km (70%) is in Rajasthan, 62,180 sq km (23%) in Gujarat and about 20,000 sq km (7%) in Punjab and Haryana states. So far about 2,043 species from single celled animal Protozoa to Mammalia recorded from the Thar Desert. Of these, 619 species are of vertebrates and the rest are invertebrates. This faunal diversity comes to about 2.12% of total Indian fauna, though the Thar occupies about 9% of the country. The Thar desert being a fragile ecosystem is further threatened because of the rapid increase in human population specially in Rajasthan state. In recent years, human population in Rajasthan is further increasing by 3% against 1.8% at the national level. Though Indira Gandhi Canal has transformed more than 11% un-inhabitated desert grassland into a fertile land, the indigenous biodiversity is under threat because the canal has changed the soil moisture, soil texture and vegetation composition. The Rajasthan State Government has declared number of areas as protected in the Thar desert region. The state government of Gujarat has established a Wild Ass Sanctury and Gir National Park to protect two endangered endemic mammal species, i.e., Wild Ass and Asiatic Lion. The Government of India has started a centrally sponsored scheme under the title of Desert Development Programme based on watershed management with the objective to check spreading of desert and improve the living condition of people in desert.','Faunal diversity, threats, conservation, Thar desert. ','Deserts cover more than one fifth of the Earth\'s land, and they are found on every continent. Far from being barren wastelands, deserts are biologically rich habitats with a vast array of animals and plants that have adapted to the harsh conditions there. The Thar Desert or Great Indian Desert is the world\'s tenth largest desert and forms a significant portion of western India and covers an area of about 2,78,330 sq km, of which 1,96,150 sq km (70%) is in Rajasthan, 62,180 sq km (23%) in Gujarat and about 20,000 sq km (7%) in Punjab and Haryana states. So far about 2,043 species from single celled animal Protozoa to Mammalia recorded from the Thar Desert. Of these, 619 species are of vertebrates and the rest are invertebrates. This faunal diversity comes to about 2.12% of total Indian fauna, though the Thar occupies about 9% of the country. The Thar desert being a fragile ecosystem is further threatened because of the rapid increase in human population specially in Rajasthan state. In recent years, human population in Rajasthan is further increasing by 3% against 1.8% at the national level. Though Indira Gandhi Canal has transformed more than 11% un-inhabitated desert grassland into a fertile land, the indigenous biodiversity is under threat because the canal has changed the soil moisture, soil texture and vegetation composition. The Rajasthan State Government has declared number of areas as protected in the Thar desert region. The state government of Gujarat has established a Wild Ass Sanctury and Gir National Park to protect two endangered endemic mammal species, i.e., Wild Ass and Asiatic Lion. The Government of India has started a centrally sponsored scheme under the title of Desert Development Programme based on watershed management with the objective to check spreading of desert and improve the living condition of people in desert.','Deserts are arid regions, generally receiving less than ten inches (25 centimeters) of precipitation a year, or regions where the potential evaporation rate is twice as great as the precipitation. Deserts cover more than one fifth of the Earth\'s land, and they are found on every continent. Far from being barren wastelands, deserts are biologically rich habitats with a vast array of animals and plants that have adapted to the harsh conditions there. Some deserts are among the planet\'s last remaining areas of total wilderness. Yet more than one billion people, one-sixth of the Earth\'s population, actually live in desert regions. \r\nThe world\'s deserts are divided into four categories i.e. 1. Subtropical deserts are the hottest, with parched terrain and rapid evaporation. The subtropical deserts are Sahara, Arabian, Kalahari, Australian Desert, Gibson, Great Sandy, Great Victoria, Simpson and Sturt Stony, Mojave, Sonoran, Chihuahuan and Thar. The Sahara has a surface area of 9 million square kilometers (3.5 million square miles), and it stands as the largest non-polar desert in the world; 2. Cool coastal deserts are located within the same latitudes as subtropical \r\n\r\ndeserts, the average temperature is much cooler because of frigid offshore ocean currents. The Cool Coastal deserts are Namib and Atacama; 3. Cold winter deserts are marked by stark temperature differences from season to season, ranging from 100°F (38°C) in the summer to 10°F (–12°C) in the winter. The Cold winter deserts are Great Basin, Colorado Plateau, Patagonian, Kara-Kum, Kyzyl-Kum, Iranian, Taklamakan and Gobi and 4. Polar regions are also considered to be deserts because nearly all moisture in these areas is locked up in the form of ice. The Polar regions deserts are Arctic and Antarctica. Antarctica has a surface area of about 14 million square kilometers (5.5 million square miles), making it the largest desert in the world. The Sahara is the world\'s largest hot desert and third largest desert, after Antarctica and Arctic. The largest hot desert in the world, northern Africa\'s Sahara, reaches temperatures of up to 122 degrees Fahrenheit (50 degrees Celsius) during the day. But some deserts are always cold, like the Gobi desert in Asia and the desert on the continent of Antarctica. Others are mountainous. Only about 10 percent of deserts are covered by sand dunes.\r\nThe Thar Desert or Great Indian Desert is the world\'s tenth largest desert and forms a significant portion of western India and covers an area of about 2,78,330 sq km, of which 1,96,150 sq km (70%) is in Rajasthan, 62,180 sq km (23%) in Gujarat and about 20,000 sq km (7%) in Punjab and Haryana states. The desert continues into Pakistan as the Cholistan Desert. The entire desert in the Indian subcontinent (India and Pakistan) covers an area of nearly half of the Arabian desert and 1/7th of the Sahara desert. This is the most thickly populated desert in the world by having an average density of 83 persons per sq km as against 6-9 persons in other deserts. The livestock population is also very high and is still increasing, i.e., 46-226 per sq km in different districts. Due to the hostile environment, the Thar desert is considered a fragile ecosystem in which the minor factors may create imbalance in the ecosystem. Despite all these factors, the Thar exhibits a wide variety of habitats and biodiversity. From biodiversity point of view, the Thar may not be rich but is interesting mainly because of the following two reasons. First, the Thar is the extension of Sahara desert through Persian and Arabian deserts and is located at the meeting point of Palaearctic and Oriental biogeographical regions. Hence, the Thar has the admixture of Palaearctic, Oriental and Saharan elements in the biodiversity. Secondly, both plant and animal species constitute an invaluable stock of rare and resistant germplasm. Though the biodiversity in the Thar is important, presently it is under great pressure in order to meet the demand of food and fodder for increased human and livestock populations respectively. During the post independence period, several developmental projects have been initiated in the region. In this respect, the worth mentioning is the increased availability of irrigation water, specially the Indira Gandhi Nahar Pariyojna (IGNP) which has transformed the desert grasslands into crop land. In these circumstances, the native biodiversity (xeric element) has become under threat. The populations of some animals, which were abundantly found only a few decades back, are dwindling very fast. In this respect, some attempts have been made to assess the threats to the vertebrate fauna but the same is not true for the invertebrate fauna. Tremendous changes in the avifaunal structure of the Thar Desert are taking place due to the Indira Gandhi Nahar Pariyojna (IGNP), species never seen earlier are now regularly found near the canal and needs documentation.\r\nThe district Rann of Kutchch or Kutchch-Bhuj in Gujarat state forms of separate agroclimatic zone within the Thar desert of India. Like other parts of Indian Thar, Rann of Kutchch is also characterized by a low rainfall and sparse vegetation. However, this region has a special and different topography from the rest of the desert because of its location near the sea and low-lying areas by which the marine water enters into its vast expanse. As a result, Rann of Kutchch is an admixture of saline, marshy and coastal desert where water and soils are extremely saline. This has made the area special from biodiversity point of view and due to its geological history. \r\nDesert animals have adapted ways to help them keep cool and use less water. Many desert animals are nocturnal, coming out only when the brutal sun has descended to hunt. Most desert birds are nomadic, crisscrossing the skies in search of food. Because of their very special adaptations, desert animals are extremely vulnerable to introduced predators and changes to their habitat. Desert plants may have to go without fresh water for years at a time. Some plants have adapted to the arid climate by growing long roots that tap water from deep underground. Some of the world\'s semi-arid regions are turning into desert at an alarming rate. This process, known as \"desertification,\" is not caused by drought, but usually arises from the demands of human populations that settle on the semi-arid lands to grow crops and graze animals. The pounding of the soil by the hooves of livestock may degrade the soil and encourage erosion by wind and water. Global warming also threatens to change the ecology of desert. Higher temperatures may produce an increasing number of wildfires that alter desert landscapes by eliminating slow-growing trees and shrubs and replacing them with fast-growing grasses.\r\nGEOGRAPHIC DISTRIBUTION \r\nAccording to Gupta and Prakash (1975), the origin of the Indian Desert lies with geotectonic and climatic changes during the upheaval of Himalaya and several glaciations epochs. It is delimited by the irrigated Indus plains in the west, the Aravalli hill ranges in the east, Rann of Kuchchh in the south and the plains of Punjab and Haryana in north and north east, lying between 22°30\' N and 32°05\' N latitudes and 68°05\' E to 75°45\' E longitudes. This has an elevation of about 350-450m above sea level at the Aravalli range in the east, about 100m in south and west and about 20m in Rann of Kutchch. Some workers believe that the Thar was not arid until 2000-3000 years ago and a few rivers passed through this regions, while others believe that it is much older and aridity must have started establishing late during the Pleistocene. These conflicting theories have become debatable from zoogeographical point of views. \r\nThe Great Indian Desert comprises in parts of four states of India viz., 3 districts of Punjab i.e. Firozpur, Faridkot and Bathinda; 4 districts of Haryana \r\n Sharma 83\r\n \r\ni.e. Sirsa, Hissar, Bhiwani and Mahendragarh; 14 districts of Rajasthan i.e. Sri Ganganagar, Hanumangarh, Churu, Jhunjhunu, Sikar, Nagaur, Ajmer, Bikaner, Jaisalmer, Jodhpur, Pali, Barmer, Sirohi and Jalore; 10 districts of Gujarat i.e. Ahmedabad, Banaskantha, Junagadh, Jamnagar, Kutchch, Mahesana, Patan, Porbandar, Rajkot and Surendranagar. \r\nThe Indian Desert may be subdivided into the following four subdivisions although it is difficult to fix the exact boundaries of each subdivision i.e., 1. Thar- sea of sand, sand hills, silt covered valleys; 2. Pat- lower sand hills with north south orientation, flat sandy soil lying on impervious clay called salt lakes ‘Dhands’, plateau like drains and hollows filled with fresh or saline lakes called ‘Kochars’. Floodwaters of eastern Nara and the Raini are available for irrigation; 3. Ghaggar- relics of a gigantic river system in which flood water of Sutlej river still enters; 4. Steppe desert- uplands of Rajasthan, more or less rocky plateau along the north and western fringes, turned into pene-plains of arid wasteland. \r\nThe Indian Desert has been divided into four types of landscapes, viz., hills, plains with hills, marshes and plains with sand dunes. The region of sand dunes is most spectacular and the typical part of Thar desert, which covers more than 1,00,000 sq km in India and extends into Pakistan. The sand dunes of Rajasthan occupy about 58% area of the desert. These are in varying degree of frequency and may be subdivided into two chains: the western part of Barmer, Jaisalmer and Bikaner districts up to the height of about 20-100m and many kilometers long and the eastern part of Bikaner and Churu districts. The latter is discontinuous and scattered and extended in Haryana and Gujarat states. The dunes are highly sandy and contain 0.12-0.18mm size grains, 1.8-4.5% clay and 0.4-1.3% silt. In the major part of Pali and parts of Nagaur, Jodhpur and Jalore districts of Rajasthan along with the Mahesana and Banaskantha districts of Gujarat, the soil is brown and grey loam. Parts of Jamnagar and Kutchch districts are covered with medium black soils. Hills, rocky pediments, the Rann, salt basin and coastal sandy plains constitute the rest which are mostly devoid of vegetation. \r\nA few saline depressions are also present in the Thar, viz., Taal Chhapar, Didwana, Pachpadra, Lunkaransar and Kuchaman. Luni is the main river in western Rajasthan, which has about half a dozen tributaries. It originates near Puskar (Ajmer) and runs about 320km upto Rann of Kutchch. In Jhunjhunu districts of Rajasthan, there is a small river Kantli, which runs to 135km upto Churu district only. The water flows in the rivers only during the monsoon period from June to September. The Indira Gandhi Canal carrying water from Ravi-Beas through Punjab and Haryana enters Rajasthan. The total length of the feeder and main canal is 649km from Harike barrage in Punjab to Jaisalmer. After completion of the project 11% area of western Rajasthan will be irrigated. Though Indira Gandhi Nahar Pariyojna (IGNP) is considered to be hope for future agriculture in Rajasthan, the project has become a subject of debate.\r\n The Rann of Kutchch represents a vast saline flat occupying an area of 23,310 sq km is located in extreme north-west of Gujarat and stretches between 22°41\'11″ and 24°41\'47″ N latitudes and 68°9\'46″ to 71°54\'47″ E longitudes. In north, it is bordered with Sind (Pakistan), in south with northern Surendernagar, Banaskantha and Mehsana districts, while in the west and south-west it is surrounded by the Arabian Sea. In west, the Arabian Sea enters the landmass to form the Gulf of Kutchch which has always been very useful from commercial and navigation point of view. \r\nThe Rann of Kutchch is divided into the following administrative subunits (Talukas) i.e., Bhuj, Mandis, Mundra, Abadasa, Lakhpat, Nakhatrana, Rapar Bhachau and Anjar. The Rann of Kutchch may be divided into three zones viz., Kutchch (Central part), Great Rann (Rann of Kutchch) and Little Rann. The mainland of Kutchch is fringed by Great Rann in the north and Little Rann in south-east. The Banni formed by sediments deposited by north flowing rivers is a strip along the northern of the main Rann. According to the geological records, this region was under the ocean during Pleistocene as it is evident from the highly fossiliferous soil conditions, i.e., sandy strands, rock sandy strands and soft marsh black mud. The important rivers draining into Rann of Kutchch are the Luni, the Rakhari, the Bhukhi, the Banas, the Nachhu and the Demi. The Luni has a well defined delta consists of a flooded plain from Chitalwana to Rathora, a distance of about 6.5km, and a delta plain from Rathora to the Rann of Kutchch about 44.8 km in length. All these rivers have their origin in the Aravalli Hills. \r\nThe extreme of cold and heat is a special feature of desert climate. There is a wide range of temperature not only between summer and winter but also between day and night. The temperature ranges from freezing point in winter to about 50ᵒC in summer at some places. Since the Thar Desert is beyond the full force of both the south-west monsoon rising from Arabian sea and north-east monsoon from the Bay of Bengal, the rainfall is erratic and scanty in this region. The winter rains are rare and drought occurs quite frequently. \r\nThe monsoon remains active from July to September and the average rainfall is 450mm in Eastern Rajasthan, 100mm in Western Rajasthan, 300-500mm in Gujarat and 200-450mm in Punjab and Haryana desert. The maximum rainfall is received during the months of July and August, but rainfall may be irregular or scanty or there may be no rains. The relative humidity remains comparatively low. \r\nDuring summer, the winds are generally violent (with 130km velocity per hour), hot and scorching (loo) with dust (vortices of dust). As a result, the shifting of sand dunes is very common in the desert. During winter, the velocity of wind remains considerably low, 4-10km per hour. With the exception of few plant species, the quick shifting of sand dunes does not allow the plants to settle. Since the light intensity is too high and the relative humidity drops down almost to zero, the evaporation in the desert is excessive during summer season. This desert too has the conventional feature of miles and miles of sand under the burning eye of the Sun, however the beauty of the desert perhaps lies in the colorful people who inhabit the land along with all the different kinds of animals encountered there. There are small hillocks and gravel plains that are found all over but the biodiversity of this desert is very rich.\r\nFAUNAL DIVERSITY\r\nContrary to the general belief, the Indian Desert fairly abounds in animal life, though most of the animals except birds and a few diurnal mammals (such as antelopes, gazelles, etc.) are not easily visible to the casual observer. They may dwell into proper niches, such as burrows, long tunnels, under stones, on plant leaves and roots, in ponds, puddles and larger reservoirs and lakes, etc. Almost all the major phyla of both the vertebrates and the invertebrates are found here, ranging from the tiny, microscopic Protozoa to Mammals. Most of them are nocturnal because they go inside their burrows during day time. Flashy footpads or special systems to conserve the water are special adaptations. Both Flora and Fauna species in the Thar region constitute an invaluable stock of rare and resistant germ plasm which are too valuable from biological point of view. Though the vertebrates are now more or less adequately known taxonomically, the same is not true for invertebrates and perhaps 2-3 times or more of the existing fauna still remains to be explored. \r\nRoonwal (1983) made an initial attempt to put together all the information about the known fauna of the Indian desert and reported nearly 1,100 species from the arid districts of Rajasthan. A multiauthored compendium ‘Faunal Diversity in the Thar Desert: Gaps in Research’ edited by Ghosh, Baqri and Prakash (1996) reports about 2,043 species from single celled animal Protozoa to Mammalia. Of these, 619 species are of vertebrates and the rest are invertebrates. This faunal diversity comes to about 2.12% of total Indian fauna, though the Thar occupies about 9% of the country. \r\nConsequently, various workers have been contributed in different field of faunal ecology of the Great Indian Desert (Roonwal, 1970; Blanford, 1901; Pocock, 1939; Prakash, 1963; Roonwal, 1983; Rathore, 1984; Rahmani, 1989, Prakash et al., 1992; Rathore and Bhattacharya 2004; Tyagi and Baqri, 2005 and Sivaperuman et al., 2005 and 2008). Studies on Beetles have been reported by Arrow (1931), Balthasar (1963), Gorden and Oppenheimer (1975), Biswas (1978a, b), Biswas and Chatterjee (1985) and Sewak (1985, 1986, 1991, 2004a, b, 2005, 2006a, b, c, d, and 2008). Tak (1995, 2000a, b, 2004) and Tak and Rathore (1996, 2004a, b) have investigated the ants of Gujarat and Rajasthan. Termites have been studied in considerable amount by Roonwal (1970-1980), Roonwal and Bose (1978), Roonwal and Rathore (1972-1975) Roonwal and Sen-Sarma (1960), Roonwal and Verma (1973-1977), Roonwal et al. (1973), Rathore (1984), Rathore and Bhattacharyya, (2004), Rathore and Mandal (2005).\r\nStudies on the avifauna of the Great Indian Desert were carried out by different researchers and these studies mainly listing the species from different parts of the Thar desert (Adams, 1873 and 1874; Barnes, 1886; Ticehurst, 1922a, 1922b, 1923a, 1923b, 1923c, 1923d, 1924a and 1924b; Whistler, 1938; Rana, 1973; Ali, 1975; Prakash, 1983; Sharma, 1983; Rana and Idris, 1986; Bohra and Goyal, 1992; Rahmani, 1994, and 1997; Rahmani and Soni, 1997 and Sivaperuman et al., 2005 and 2008). Detailed studies on population ecology of vultures have been made by various worker in the Great Indian Desert (Chhangani and Mohnot, 2001; Chhangani, et al., 2002; Chhangani, 2004; Chhangani and Mohnot, 2004; Chhangani, 2005). Prakash (1999), Prakash and Rahmani (1999) and Prakash, et al. (2003), Prakash (1999), Cunningham et al., (2001 and 2003) and Oaks et al. (2004) and Chhangani (2008). \r\nAmong the mammals rodents is one of the well studied group in the Great Indian Desert, Prakash published more than 300 research papers in the field of rodent ecology and also a large number of scientific studies have been carried out by various workers on systematic and ecological studies of desert rodent (Agarwal (1962), Biswas and Tiwari (1966), Prakash (1963 and 1964) and Prakash and Jain (1967), Rana and Prakash (1980, 1982 and 1984), Chkravarthy et al. (2005), Idris (2008). \r\n \r\n Sharma 85\r\n \r\nPrimate is another well studied group in the Thar Desert (Sugiyama, 1965; Mohnot, 1971; Hrdy, 1974; Mohnot, 1971; Agoramoorthy and Mohnot, 1988; Agoramoorthy, 1982, 1986, 1987, 1992, 1994a, 1994b; Agoramoorthy and Mohnot, 1988; Agoramoorthy et al. 1988 and Agoramoorthy, 2008).\r\nThe Rann of Kutchch exhibits a spectacular biodiversity because of its evolutionary history, geographical location and ecological uniqueness of the salt desert. The review of the literature reveals that Rann of Kutchch has not been explored significantly for the invertebrate fauna while significant work has been done on the vertebrate groups except the fishes. In fact, the coast and Gulf of Kutchch are not only rich in biodiversity but also significantly explored for faunal resources. Several groups of marine invertebrates, viz., Coelenterates (52 spp. of corals), Echiurans (11 spp.), Mollusca (72 spp.), Bryozoans (42 spp.) etc., have been reported from this area. Its vertebrate fauna includes a large number of marine fishes, reptiles and mammals (dolphins and whales). In the hot desert of Rann of Kutchch, only a few species of the major phyla like Protozoa, Cnidara, Platyhelminthes, Nematoda have been reported till date. The phylum Arthropoda is represented by 23 species of Isoptera, 6 species of Diptera, 10 species of Coleoptera, 20 species of Lepidoptera, 6 species of Odonata, 9 species of Metastigmata (Acari). About 317 species of vertebrates are known from the Great Kutchch region i.e., 20 species of fishes, 6 species of amphibians, 35 species of reptiles, 220 species of birds and 36 species of mammals. The coastal belt falling within the Gulf of Kutchch is also distinguished by the presence of living corals. The corals are often inhabited by pearl oysters. The sea also harbours a wide variety of marine life, viz., seahorse or hippocampus, sea turtles, dolphins, whales etc. The coastal region is favourite spot for the breeding of the following sea turtles: hawksbill sea turtle (Eretmochelys imbricata), olive ridley sea turtle (Lepidochelys olivacea) and Green sea turle (Chelonia mydas). This region has also vast resources of lobsters and prawns. The Great Rann of Kutchch is an established nesting and breeding ground of Greater Flamingo and Lesser Flamingo in India. These migratory birds are attracted to this region because of the availability of their food (algae), which is abundantly found in this saline-desert-marshy ecosystem. Due to high concentration of Greater Flamingos in Khadir and Pachham belts, this breeding place is called Flamingo city. The subspecies of Wild Ass (Equus hemionus khur/Equus onager) is found only in Rann of Kutchch and thus this is endemic to this region. Hedgehogs are also seen in abundance in this region. The following species in this region are threatened species viz., Spiny-tailed lizards, Green Sea Turtle, Olive Ridley Turtle, Wild Ass, Desert Cat, Caracal, Wolf, Chinkara, Indian Pangolin, Dugong and Great Indian bustard. Corals, molluscs and lobsters are found distributed in the Rann of Kutchch, besides several species of threatened dolphins and whales. In fact, Rann of Kutchch sustains isolated populations of a good number of flora and fauna species which are extremely important from evolutionary point of view.\r\nCharacteristic Fauna\r\nSome species of Reptiles, Birds and Mammals are characteristic fauna of Thar Desert as shown in Table 1.\r\nThreatened Fauna\r\nSurprisingly, serious attempts have not been made to assess the threats to the invertebrate fauna in the changing scenario, though they become the first victim of any habitat destruction. However, significant work has been done on the vertebrate species in the Thar region. The following species of Reptiles, Aves and Mammals are threatened as shown in Table 2, 3 & 4. \r\nStudies bv ZSI\r\nAlmost all the major phyla of vertebrates and invertebrates ranging from the tiny microscopic protozoa to mammals are found here. Though a few scientists from the headquarters of Zoological Survey of India, Kolkata had conducted faunistic surveys, the studies in the planned and systematic way were initiated only after the Desert Regional Centre, ZSI was established in the year 1960 at Jodhpur. \r\n \r\n Sharma 87\r\n \r\nThough the vertebrates are now more or less adequately known taxonomically, the same is not true for invertebrates and perhaps 2-3 times or more of the existing fauna still remains to be explored. In this connection Desert Regional Centre has organised a workshop to identify gaps in the faunal exploration of the ecosystem and its proceedings entitled “Faunal Diversity in the Thar Desert: Gaps in Research\" edited by Ghosh et al., 1996 is the state of art on the subject. Since then the number of surveys have been undertaken by scientists from different group of animals and the current status of faunal diversity is listed in Table 5. The major studies conducted in Thar desert by ZSI scientists are as given below. \r\nThe studies on “Status survey of Chinkara and Desert Cat in Rajasthan” conducted by Kankane published in 2000.\r\nThe Fauna of Gujarat (Part-1) published in 2000 and groups covered are Freshwater Fishes, Marine and Estuarine Fishes, Amphibia, Reptilia, Aves and Mammalia. \r\nThe collaborative studies conducted on “Habitat suitability analysis of Chinkara, Gazella bennetti in Rajasthan- A remote sensing and GIS approach” by ZSI and IIRS published in 2001.\r\nThe Fauna of Gujarat (Part-2) published in 2004 and groups covered are Oribated Mites, Metastigmata (Ticks), Odonata, Isoptera, Coccoidea, Coleoptera, Diptera, Formicidae, Echinodermata, Crustacea, Prawns, Annelida, Echiura, Marine Mollusca, Nematoda, Cnidaria and Protozoa. \r\n \r\n\r\n Sharma 88 \r\nBaqri et al. under Ministry of Environment and Forests sponsored project entitled “Studies on Faunal diversity in the Thar desert of Rajasthan” has conducted study in thirteen districts of Thar desert of Rajasthan during 2000-04 and recorded about 901 species of fauna belonging to Nematoda (109 spp.), Insecta (279 spp.), Acarina ( 41 spp.), Pisces (80 spp.), Amphibia (8 spp.), Reptilia (44 spp.), Aves 272 spp.) and Mammalia (68 spp.).\r\nThe “Fauna of Desert National Park, Rajasthan” published in 2004 and recorded Plants and Soil Nematoda, Mollusca, Arachnida, Odonata, Orthoptera, Dermaptera, Mantodea, Isoptera, Diptera, Lepidoptera, Hymenoptera, Thysanura, Acarina, Aves, Reptilia and Mammals.\r\nThe studies on “Fauna of Sambhar Lake, Rajasthan” published in 2005 and recorded 64 species of Zooplankton, 37 species of Crustacea, 71 species of Insects, 71 species of Aves and 6 species of Mammals recorded.\r\nThe studies on “Geospatial Atlas for the wetland birds of Thar Desert, Rajasthan” conducted by Kumar et al. published in 2006 and recorded 144 species of wetland birds.\r\nThe studies by ZSI scientists on Thar desert published in book “Faunal ecology and conservation of the Great Indian Desert” edited by Sivaperuman et al., 2009 and recorded 85 species of Dung Beetles by Sewak and 35 species of Ants by Tak of Thar Desert of Rajasthan and Gujarat; 28 species of Spiders in the Desert National Park by Sivaperuman and Rathore; 272 species of Aves from Thar desert, Rajasthan by Sivaperuman et al. and revival prospects of 21 species of larger mammals in Thar desert of Rajasthan by Kankane.\r\nThe “Faunal Resources of Tal Chhaper Wildlife Sanctuary, Rajasthan” published in 2009 and recorded Plant and Soil Nematodes, Isoptera, Scarabaeidae, Formicidae, Herpetofauna, Aves and Mammals.\r\nThe Environmental Impact Assessment studies conducted in “Lignite Mining blocks of Kapurdi and Jalipa village of District Barmer” in the year 2008 and in “Hadla Lignite Mining Project, Bikaner, Rajasthan” in the year 2009-10.\r\nOn the occasion of Golden Jubilee Celebration of ZSI, DRC, Jodhpur in 2010 “National Seminar on Impact of Climate Change on Biodiversity and challenges in Thar Desert” organized, in which researchers contributed their work on biodiversity of Thar Desert and published Abstracts and proceedings. \r\nThreats to the ecosystem\r\nThe Thar desert being a fragile ecosystem is further threatened because of the rapid increase in human population specially in Rajasthan state. In recent years, human population in Rajasthan is further increasing by 3% against 1.8% at the national level. The rapid increase in the population of livestock has also resulted in tremendous pressure on the grasslands. In most of the Thar districts of Rajasthan, the livestock population is more than double of the human population. Hence, the typical herbivorous desert animals which can survive in the harsh climate may also perish, mainly due to continuous shrinkage of the grazing area.\r\nThough Indira Gandhi Canal has transformed more than 11% un-inhabitated desert grassland into a fertile land, the indigenous biodiversity is under threat because the canal has changed the soil moisture, soil texture and vegetation composition. The Canal has caused the rise in the water table and about 1/3rd command area remains flooded. The flooded conditions have increased the salinity, which has further affected the native biodiversity. This altered desert ecosystem has been responsible for the increase in the cutaneous lieshmaniasis and malaria, invasion of the new agricultural pests, weeds and other plant diseases.\r\nMining of stones, minerals and other natural resources with or without monitoring has also resulted in the loss of biodiversity. \r\nThough there are few communities in Rajasthan who love animals and plants and save them even by sacrificing their life, poaching and cutting of trees are still considerable threats to wildlife in the region.\r\nIn Rann of Kutchch, the ‘salt desert’ is considered as a unique and a fragile ecosystem, the slightest human interference may result in the fast depletion of the rare desert fauna and flora. A number of recently established industries are discharging effluents, which have adversely affected even the littoral fauna. \r\nThe depletion of the mangroves has resulted in the decline of fish catch. In recent years, the area under Rann of Kutchch mangrove forests has reduced drastically. The annual rate of degradation in percentage has been calculated at about 11% for the mangroves.\r\nThe number of pearl oysters in the Gulf of Kutchch has drastically dwindled along with the fast depleting population of other marine animals. The coral reefs are also being over exploited for various reasons. The destruction of corals is to be stopped immediately because they are considered to be important component of the marine biodiversity.\r\nThe subspecies of Indian Wild Ass (Equus hemionus khur) found in the Little Rann of Kutchch is one of the rarest mammals surviving now in this desert. Its habitat has reduced drastically and also decline in its population. \r\n \r\n\r\n Sharma 89\r\n \r\nThe ever-multiplying number of salt pans in the Little Rann and increase in road traffic are also contributory factors to the decline of Wild Ass population. The excess growth of weeds in the natural habitat of the Wild Ass is also becoming a matter of concern. Though the Wild Ass populations are not under threat from the poachers, the Maldharis (nomadic cattle grazers) are indeed a real threat to them. These tribals are gradually encroaching their habitat, especially on the Bets (grassy islands) inside the Rann of Kutchch.\r\nThar is, presently under great pressure in order to meet the demand of food and fodder for increased human and livestock populations. During the post independence period, several developmental projects have been initiated in the region. In this respect, the Indira Gandhi Nahar Pariyojna (IGNP) of Rajasthan state and a distributory of Sardar Sarovar Project feeding Katchch area of Gujarat are worth mentioning here. The large scale irrigation projects transformed the desert grasslands into crop land. In the circumstances, the native biodiversity (xeric element) has become under threat. The populations of some animals, which were abundantly found only a few decades back, are dwindling very fast. \r\nConservation Efforts\r\nThe Government of India has started a centrally sponsored scheme under the title of Desert Development Programme based on watershed management with the objective to check spreading of desert and improve the living condition of people in desert.\r\nThe Rajasthan State Government has declared number of areas as protected in the Thar desert region. The objective of the Desert National Park is to protect the xeric elements of biodiversity. This provides protection especially to Chinkara, Nilgai, Jackal, Indian Fox, Desert Fox, Desert Cat, Jungle Cat, Great Indian Bustard, Houbara Bustard, Sandgrouse, White Browed Bushchat, etc. Some wildlife species, which are fast vanishing in other parts of India, are found in the desert in large numbers such as the Blackbuck (Antilope cervicapra) and the Indian Gazelle/Chinkara (Gazella bennettii). The protection provided to them by a local community, the Bishnois, is also a factor. \r\nThe state government of Gujarat has established a Wild Ass Sanctury and Gir National Park to protect two endangered endemic mammal species, i.e., Wild Ass and Asiatic Lion. Besides, the establishment of Gaga Sanctuary by the Gujarat government is a great hope for the conservation of the Great Indian Bustard, an endangered majestic bird of the Thar region. The Gir National Park supports not only endemic and endangered species (Asiatic Lion) but also a few more threatened species like Leopard, Jungle Cat, Hyaena, Jackal, Mongoose, Civet Cat, Desert Cat, Chital, Rusty Spotted Cat, Sambar, Four-horned Antelope, Chinkara, Pangolin, Wild Boar, etc. \r\nSince the Rann of Kutchch is a forest-poor area, wildlife is also limited. After realizing the importance of the rare and endangered species of animal in the area, the Government of Gujarat has taken an effective step to preserve this unique ecosystem by declaring an area of 7506 sq km in the Great Rann of Kutchch as “Kutchch Desert Wildlife Sanctuary” in 1987. In 2008, The Government of India has declared an area of 12,454 sq km of Great Rann of Kutchch as Biosphere Reserve. To save the Wild Ass, the Gujarat Government has declared an area of about 500 sq km in Little Rann and adjoining wasteland as “Wild Ass Sanctuary”. Narayan Sarovar Sanctuary has been declared specially for the conservation of Chinkara. This sanctuary occupying an area of about 30,754 ha also supports other important animals, viz., Caracal, Desert Cat, Indian Wolf, Pangolin, Grest Indian Bustard, Peafowl and a few other birds. Since the people of Rann of Kutchch are generally vegetarian in their feeding habit, the hunting or poaching threat is limited and the animals rather feel protected. \r\n','Gaurav Sharma (2013). A review on the Studies on Faunal diversity, status, Threats and Conservation of Thar Desert or Great Indian Desert Ecosystem. Biological Forum – An International Journal 5(2): 81-90.'),(4513,'122','Phytochemical Analysis of Methanolic Extracts of Leaves of Some Medicinal Plants','Anubha Arora','14 ANUBHA ARORA.pdf','',1,'Phytochemical are the dependable sources for the treatment of different health problem. The present investigation deals with the phytochemical studies of leaves of different medicinal plants like Alstonia scholaris, Catharanthus roseus, Nerium oleander, Tabernaemontana divaricata, Thevetia neriifolia, Withania somnifera , Adhatoda vasica , Cannabis sativa , Solanum nigrum, Plumeria alba and Achranthus aspera etc. Methanolic (90%) extracts of leaf powders have been screened for qualitative determination of different secondary metabolites like, cardiac glycoside. alkaloids, flavonoids, tannins, glycoside, reducing sugar, saponin and terpenoids etc. All plant materials were collected during the period 2012 from Haridwar District.','Medicinal plants, Methanolic extracts, Phytochemical study, Secondary metabolites','Phytochemical are the dependable sources for the treatment of different health problem. The present investigation deals with the phytochemical studies of leaves of different medicinal plants like Alstonia scholaris, Catharanthus roseus, Nerium oleander, Tabernaemontana divaricata, Thevetia neriifolia, Withania somnifera , Adhatoda vasica , Cannabis sativa , Solanum nigrum, Plumeria alba and Achranthus aspera etc. Methanolic (90%) extracts of leaf powders have been screened for qualitative determination of different secondary metabolites like, cardiac glycoside. alkaloids, flavonoids, tannins, glycoside, reducing sugar, saponin and terpenoids etc. All plant materials were collected during the period 2012 from Haridwar District.','Plants which have one or more of its organ containing substances that can be used for the therapeutic purpose, are called medicinal plants. Sofowara (1993). Several phytochemical surveys have been published, including the random sampling approach which involved some plant accessions collected from all parts world. The major chemical substances of interest in these surveys have been the alkaloids and steroidal sapogenins (saponins) however, other diverse groups of naturally occurring phytochemicals such as flavonoids, tannins, unsaturated sterols, triterpenoids, essential oils etc. also have been reported Farnsworth (1966). Phytochemical are very important in medicine and constitute most of the valuable drugs. Alkaloids are rich in medicine and constitute most of the valuable drugs. They have physiological effect on animals. Edeoga et,al. (2001).\r\n Laily et,al. (2002) worked out a preliminary phytochemical survey of plants in crocker range , Sabbah Malaysia.Choudhary et,a.l (2009) observed the studies on leaf epidermal micromorphology, wood element character and phytochemical screening of three medicinally important taxa of the family Convolvulaceae . Farhat Ali Khan et.al, (2011) observed the phytochemical screening of some Pakistanian Medicinal Plants. Sudipa et, al. (2013) observed the Phytochemical analysis of methanolic \r\n\r\n\r\n\r\nextracts of leaves some medicinal plants and Chandrashekar et. al. (2012) observed the phytochemical analysis of ethanolic extracts of leaves of Clerodendrum viscosum.\r\nMATERIAL AND METHODS \r\n The selected plant species were carefully identified with the help of available floras Hooker (1872-1897); Duthie (1903-1929), Maheshwari (1962). The leaf samples of selected plant species were carefully separated, cleaned, shade dried, mechanically grinded and coarsely powdered. Finally, the leaf powders were extracted (Soxhlet extraction) with 90% methanol and those extracts were used for different chemical color reaction tests for identification of different phytochemical groups. Phytochemical screening was carried out to assess the qualitative chemical composition of crude extracts using commonly employed precipitation and coloration reaction to identify the major natural chemical groups such as alkaloids, flavonoids, tannins, reducing sugars, saponins, flavonoid and terpenoides. The presence of alkaloids was determined using the method (Driver, 1960). For steroids or triterpenes and flavonoids test was used (Peach & Tracey, 1955), for glycosides test was used (Paris, 1963) and test for tannins, saponins (Johansen, 1940).\r\n \r\n\r\nRESULTS \r\nThe preliminary phytochemical screening carried out on methanolic extracts of Alstonia scholaris, Catharanthus roseus, Nerium oleander, Tabernaemontana divaricata ,Thevetia neriifolia, Withania somnifera, Adhatoda vasica, Cannabis sativa, Solanum nigrum, Plumeria alba and Achranthus aspera etc leaves revealed the presence of phytoconstituents such as alkaloids, flavonoids, tannins, reducing sugars, saponins, flavonoid and terpenoides (Table 1). \r\nAll phytochemicals i.e alkaloids, flavonoids, tannins, reducing sugars, saponins, flavonoid and terpenoides were present in all selected plant species. Tannin were absent in Adhatoda vasica and Cannabis satvia. \r\n\r\n\r\n\r\nPhytochemical constituents such as tannins, flavonoids,\r\nalkaloids and several other aromatic compounds or secondary metabolites of plants serve as defense mechanism against predation by many microorganism, insects and herbivores. The curative properties of medicinal plants are perhaps due to the presence of various secondary metabolites such as alkaloids, flavonoids, glycosides, phenols, saponins, steroids etc (Sofowara, 1993).\r\nIt may be concluded that these medicinal plants are very useful. These plants may be used to cure some common and other various diseases. \r\n','Anubha Arora (2013). Phytochemical Analysis of Methanolic Extracts of Leaves of Some Medicinal Plants .Biological Forum – An International Journal 5(2): 91-93.'),(4514,'122','The Genus Desmodium Desv. (Fabaceae) in Gujarat, India','Sandipkumar L. Patel and J. P. Patel ','15 SANDEEP KUMAR GJ.pdf','',1,'The genus Desmodium Desv. (Fabaceae) is revised in Gujarat, India. A total of 13 species are recognized. The present investigation is an attempt to make a comprehensive account having details on updated botanical names and choosing of specific morphological characters for accurate and easy identification. Artificial identification key was reframed so as to identify currently recognized Desmodium species in Gujarat.','Desmodium, Identification, Gujarat','The genus Desmodium Desv. (Fabaceae) is revised in Gujarat, India. A total of 13 species are recognized. The present investigation is an attempt to make a comprehensive account having details on updated botanical names and choosing of specific morphological characters for accurate and easy identification. Artificial identification key was reframed so as to identify currently recognized Desmodium species in Gujarat.','The genus Desmodium Desv., commonly known as tick clover or beggarweed, contains about 280 species: mostly in subtropical and tropical regions. Many of its members play an important role in sustainable agriculture, forestry and forage production (Gu et al., 2007). For example, Desmodium intortum and Desmodium heterocarpon have been used for forages and shading plants in the fields, which can also suppress the growth of weeds (Khan et al., 2001). Moreover, the various Desmodium species have served in folk medicine as febrifuges, remedies for dysentery and liver diseases and have been used in poultice and other decoctions to treat acne, ulcers, catarrh, abscesses and eye diseases (Allen and Allen, 1981). In India, about 50-60 Desmodium species are found.\r\nIn Hooker’s “Flora of British India” (1879, 1999 (reprint)), 49 species of Desmodium were recorded. Cooke in his “Flora of the Presidency of Bombay” (1958 (reprint)) reported 14 species in Desmodium. Since the notes on distribution for many of the species recorded therein are generalized for the whole of Bombay Presidency (that includes present Maharashtra also), it does not give clear picture about the number of species occurring in the present Gujarat alone. In Gujarat Desmodium is represented with 13 species. Patel (1971) recognized 6 Desmodium species in Gujarat while compiling the Forest Flora of Gujarat State. Shah (1978) in his “Flora of Gujarat State” provided the first comprehensive account of Desmodium in Gujarat recording 14 species. Latter on Raghvan et. al. (1981) listed 15 Desmodium species in their checklist of the plants of Gujarat. \r\nThe Flora account was a great contribution at the time of publication and it now needs to be updated for two reasons: 1) Flora of Gujarat state have become more than 35 years old and today it may not give details on the distribution range of each species; 2) continuing taxonomic work has radically altered the generic concept and botanical names for many species. Although there are several publications dealing with Desmodium genus, there is no single reference summarizing all the species currently recognized in the Gujarat. The purpose of this publication is to make available an updated list of Desmodium species examined thus far in Gujarat and reframed the identification keys to avoid the difficulty in identification of Desmodium species.\r\nMATERIALS AND METHODS\r\nFirst of all a provisionary list of Desmodium species recorded for Gujarat flora was made. All the listed species were tested for their accepted botanical names with the help of literature published as well as two websites namely www.plantlist.org and www.tropicos.org. \r\n \r\n\r\nDetailed morphological characters of each species were recorded and feed to computer by using Microsoft Excel. These characters were filtered at various steps by selecting different morphological characters to prepare the artificial bracketed identification key exclusively for this genus. Detailed description as well as flowering fruiting season and range of distribution were given in result section for each species.\r\nRESULTS\r\nGujarat is a state in western India. It has an area of 75,686 sq mi (196,077 km²) with a coastline of 1,600 km, most of which lays on the Kathiawad peninsula and a population in excess of 50 million. The state is bordered by Rajasthan to the north, Maharashtra to the south, Madhya Pradesh to the east and the Arabian Sea as well as the Pakistani province of Sindh on the west. The genus Desmodium is represented with 13 species in Gujarat. All the species are growing in wild, of these only one species namely D. oojeinense (Roxb.) H.Ohashi is tree while rests of the species are small herbs, undershrubs or shrubs or climber. As illustrated in table 1, Shah (1978) and Raghavan et. al (1981) has recorded more species than the present record but eventually botanical names of species were altered and a total of six species were shifted to some other genera. However, D. oojeinense (Roxb.) H.Ohashi was earlier recorded as Ougeinia oojeinensis (Roxb.) Hochr. in published Floras. Following is the list of species earlier recorded under Desmodium genus for Gujarat flora but with altered botanical names they are now recognized as depicted below:\r\n \r\n\r\n1. Desmodium motorium (Houtt.) Merr. is synonym Codariocalyx motorius (Houtt.) H.Ohashi\r\n2. Desmodium repandum (Vahl) DC. is synonym of Hylodesmum repandum (Vahl) H.Ohashi & R.R. Mill\r\n3. Desmodium rotundifolium Baker is synonym Desmodiastrum racemosum var. rotundifolium (Baker) A.Pramanik & Thoth.\r\n4. Desmodium triangulare (Retz.) Merr. is synonym Dendrolobium triangulare (Retz.) Schindl.\r\n5. Desmodium triquetrum (L.) DC. is synonym Tadehagi triquetrum (L.) H.Ohashi\r\n6. Desmodium umbellatum (L.) DC. is synonym Dendrolobium umbellatum (L.) Benth.\r\nDESMODIUM Desv. J. Bot. Agric. 1: 122. 1813, nom. cons.\r\nMostly herbs, subshrubs, shrubs and rarely climbers or trees. Leaves pinnately 3-foliolate or 1-foliolate by reduction of lateral leaflets, stipulate, stipellate. Flowers usually smaller, in racemes or panicles, axillary or terminal, rarely solitary or binate in leaf axils. Bracts persistent or early deciduous; bracteoles present or absent. Calyx campanulate, 4- or 5-lobed, bilabiate; upper 2 lobes connate for all or most of length, entire or 2-toothed at apex, lower lobes free, longest. Corolla white, green-white, pink, purple, or violet; standard elliptic or obovate to nearly orbicular; wings ± adherent to keel, wholly clawed. Stamens mostly diadelphous (9+1), rarely monadelphous. Ovary usually sessile, (1)2-many-ovuled. Legume usually stipitate or sometimes sessile, well-exerted from the calyx, compressed, usually indehiscent, transversely segmented, upper (adaxial) suture slightly constricted or straight, lower (abaxial) one constricted; articles mostly ellipsoidal to quadrangular, 1-seeded, membranous or leathery, almost flat or more rarely inflated. Seeds oblong, reniform or subquadrangular, compressed; aril not developed.\r\n1. Desmodium alysicarpoides Meeuwen in Reinward. 6:246. 1962; Shah in Fl. Guj. State 1:206. 1978. Alysicarpus parviflorus Dalz. in Hk. Kew. Journ. Bot. 3:211. 1850. Desmodium parviflorus (Dalz.) Baker in Hk. f. FBI 2:172. 1876\r\nAn erect, much branched herb, fulvous-hairy. Leaflets 3, 0.6-1.5×0.3-1.4 cm, appressed-hairy beneath. Racemes terminal and axillary, 2.3-10.2 cm long, lax. Pods 0.7-1.3 cm long, falcate, lower suture slightly indented, 3-5-jointed, glabrescent. Fls & Frs: August-December.\r\nOnly once reported from Vyara forest in South Gujarat.\r\n2. Desmodium dichotomum (Willd.) DC. Prodr. 2:336. 1825; Shah in Fl. Guj. State 1:206. 1978; Meeuwen in Reinward. 6:248. 1962. Hedysarum dichotomum Willd. Sp. Pl. 3: 1180. 1802; Desmodium diffusum (Willd.) Candolle (Nov 1825), not Candolle (Jan 1825); H. diffusum Willd. (1801), not (Candolle) Roxb. (1832).\r\nPANDARIYO SAMERVO\r\nSubshrubs or diffuse viscidly-pubescent herbs, 20–100 cm tall. Leaves 3-foliolate, sometimes 1-foliolate near base of stem; leaflets 1.4-9.0×0.8-4.9 cm, elliptic or ovate to broadly elliptic or broadly ovate, abaxially densely adpressed hairy, adaxially with sparse adpressed hairs, intermixed with sparse hooked hairs; petiole 1.5–3.5 cm, hairy. Racemes lax, terminal or axillary or usually panicles, 2.0-15cm, 2- or 3- flowered at each node. Pedicel 2–5 mm. Calyx 4-lobed, as long as tube; upper lobes 2-toothed. Corolla purple to violet, 3 mm; standard obovate or broadly obovate, base shortly clawed; wings and keel wholly shortly clawed at base. Ovary densely pubescent, 5- or 6-ovuled. Pods 1.2-2.0 cm long, linear, 3-6-jointed, covered with hooked hairs. Fls & Frs: July-December. 2n=22.\r\nCommon, throughout as a weed in cultivated fields, along road sides and railway lines and in forest undergrowth.\r\n3. Desmodium dolabriforme Benth. ; F.B.I. ii. 165.\r\nAn undershrub with short erect stem. Leaves 3-foliolate, crowded on an erect stem a few inches high, leaflets membranous, both surfaces green, lower obscurely pilose, stipules small, lanceolate, persistent, petioles 2.5-4.0 cm long. Racemes simple, lax, long peduncled, terminal, 5.0-8.0 cm long. Pedicels finely pubescent; calyx turbinate, lower tooth lanceolate, as long as the tube. Pods jointed, joint solitary, half-rhomboid, three times as long as broad, narrowed gradually from the middle to the tip and stalk.\r\nListed by Raghavan et. al (1981).\r\n4. Desmodium gangeticum (L.) DC.; Shah in Fl. Guj. State 1:206. 1978. Hedysarum gangeticum L. Sp. Pl. 2: 746. 1753; Desmodium cavaleriei H. Leveille.\r\nSHALPARNI\r\n90-120 cm tall undershrubs or shrubs, erect or nearly so, much branched, grey-downy in younger parts. Leaves 1-foliolate, variable in shape and size; lamina narrowly elliptic-ovate, sometimes ovate or lanceolate, 2.3–15.2×1.0–8.3 cm, abaxially sparsely gray villous, adaxially glabrous except for hairy midvein, base rounded, apex acute; petiole 1.0–2.0 cm. Racemes axillary and terminal or sometimes panicles, slender, 10–40 cm, 2–6-flowered at each node. Pedicel 2–5 mm, hairy. Calyx 2 mm, 4-lobed; lobes slightly onger than tube. Corolla white or purplish, 3–4 mm; standard obovate; wings oblong, base auriculate, shortly clawed; keel narrowly obovate, not auriculate. Ovary hairy. Pods 2.3-4.5 cm long, falcate, 4-6-jointed, compressed, clothed with hooked hairs. Fls & Frs: August-November. 2n = 22.\r\nThroughout in the undergrowth of forests and in shaded spots along road sides and railway lines; common.\r\n5. Desmodium heterocarpon (L.) DC.; Shah in Fl. Guj. State 1:207. 1978. Hedysarum heterocarpon L. Sp. Pl. 747.1753. Hedysarum polycarpon Poir. Encycl. 6:413. 1804. Desmodium polycarpon (Poir.) DC. Prodr. 2:334. 1835; FBI 2:171; C 1:377\r\nAn erect or suberect, slender, 30–150 cm tall, much branched from base of stem, appressed-pubescent undershrub. Leaves 3-foliolate; terminal leaflet blade elliptic, narrowly elliptic, or broadly obovate, 1.8-5.2×1.0-2.2 cm, abaxially white adpressed pubescent, adaxially glabrous, base obtuse, apex rounded or obtuse, emarginate, mucronate; petiole 1.0–2.0 cm, slightly pubescent. Racemes terminal or axillary, 2.4–7.2 cm; rachis with white, spreading, hooked hairs or yellowish or white, straight, appressed hairs, densely flowered. Pedicel 3–4 mm. Calyx 1.5–2 mm, 4-lobed; upper lobes slightly 2-toothed at apex. Corolla purple, purplered, or white, 5 mm; standard obovate-oblong, shortly clawed; wings obovate, auriculate, clawed; keel extremely curved, apex obtuse. Pods 1.0-1.6 cm × 0.3–0.4 cm, linear-oblong, densely pubescent, 5-8 jointed articles quadrate. Fls & Frs: October-December. 2n = 22.\r\nSo far from south Gujarat (Surat and Dangs district), very rare.\r\n6. Desmodium laxiflorum DC.; Shah in Fl. Guj. State 1:207. 1978. Desmodium macrophyllum Desv.; D. recurvatum (Roxb.) Graham ex Wight & Arnott; Hedysarum recurvatum Roxb.\r\nAn erect undershrub, 40–90 cm tall. Young branchlets with adpressed and minute hooked hairs. Leaves 3-foliolate, leaflets 5.8-11.2×2.4-6.5 cm, ovate-elliptic or obovate, membranous, glabrous above, pubescent beneath, terminal leaflet largest, apex shortly acuminate; petiole 1.5–4.0 cm. Racemes 15-19 cm long, axillary and terminal, rachis pubescent intermixed with minute hooked hairs, 2–7-flowered, fascicled. Pedicel 5–10 mm, densely hairy as rachis. Calyx densely villous; upper lobes entire or nearly so at apex. Corolla white to violet, 4–7 mm; standard broadly obovate or orbicular; wings auriculate and clawed; keel clawed. Pods 0.5-0.8 cm long, falcate, linear, pubescent; hairs viscid, hooked, articles oblong. Fls & Frs: August-December. 2n = 22.\r\nThroughout Gujarat (except Kachchh district), in the undergrowth of forests; occasional.\r\n7. Desmodium neomexicanum A. Gray, Pl. Wright 1:53. 1852; Shah in Fl. Guj. State 1:208. 1978; Chavan, Sabnis & Bedi in kew Bull. 17:265. 1963.\r\nErect or suerect, slender, hairy herbs, 30-90 cm tall. Leaves 3-foliolate, leaflets 0.5-5×0.4-1.2 cm, terminal largest, all membranous, ovate or ovate-lanceolate, nearly glabrous but for ciliate margins. Racemes terminal and axillary, 8.0-15 cm long. Pods 0.5-2.3 cm long, 2-4-jointed; joints flat, hairy, ciliate on margins. Seeds 0.2-0.3 cm long, smooth, glabrous, pinkish-brown, grooved at one end. Fls & Frs: October-December.\r\nThroughout, scattered in shaded spots or in undergrowth of forests; occasional.\r\n8. Desmodium oojeinense (Roxb.) H.Ohashi. Ougeinia oojeinensis (Roxb.) Hochr. in Bull. Soc. Bot. Geneve 13-14:15. 1909; Shah in Fl. Guj. State 1:234. 1978. Dalbergia oojeinensis Roxb. Hort. Beng. 53. 1814 (nomen) & Fl. Ind. 3: 220. 1832. Ougeinia dalbergioides Bth. Pl. Jungh. 216. 1851-1855; FBI 2:161.\r\nTANACHH\r\nA deciduous tree, 9-16 m tall, with black or dark-brown bark. Leaves 3-foliolate, leaflets 6.6-18×4.5-15 cm, coriaceous, glabrous, broadly ovate or suborbicular. Flowers numerous, in fascicled racemes. Pods 4.0-6.0 × 0.6-1.2 cm, flat, reticulately veined. Fls & Frs:February-April.\r\nIn deciduous forests; not common.\r\n9. Desmodium renifolium (L.) Schindl. Repert. Spec. Nov. Regni Veg. 22: 262. 1926. Hedysarum renifolium L., Syst. Nat., ed. 10, 2:1169. 1759; Desmodium reniforme Candolle; H. reniforme L. nom. illeg. superfl.\r\nMANO-PANDARIYO\r\nA slender herb with wiry stems, 30–50 cm tall, much branched, often glabrous. Leaves 1-foliolate, leaflets reniform or compressed rhombic, often broader than long, 1.5–3.5×2.5–5 cm, , both ends truncate or base broadly cuneate or apex emarginated, glabrous, petiole 1.0–2.0 cm. Flowers in 5.0–15 cm long, laxly flowered terminal racemes, 2–5-flowered at each node. Pedicel 2–8 mm, elongated to 1.3 cm at fruiting. Calyx 4-lobed; lobes triangular, as long as tube. Corolla white to pale yellow or purple, 5 mm; standard obovate, base broadly shortly clawed, apex slightly emarginate; wings narrowly oblong, long clawed; keel narrowly elliptic, long clawed. Stamens monadelphous, 3.2–4.2 mm. Ovary adpressed puberulent. Pods 1.5-1.8 cm long, glabrous, upper suture straight, lower one slightly indented. Fls & Frs: September-November.\r\nSaurashtra (Barda hills.)\r\n10. Desmodium scorpiurus (Sw.) Desv. in J. Bot. Agric. 1: 122 (1813). ─Verdcourt in Man. New Guinea Leg.: 407, fig. 94G (1979). ─Lock, Leg. Afr. Check-list: 247 (1989). Hedysarum scorpiurus Sw. Nov. Gen. Sp. Pl. Prodr.: 107. 1788.\r\nSpreading ascending or diffuse herb with hooked hairy stems. Leaves 3-foliolate, leaflets 0.5-4.5 × 0.2-1.8 cm, elliptic or less often round or oblong, base obtuse, apex obtuse-rounded or emarginate, both surfaces adpressed hairy, lateral veins 4 or 5, petiole 0.3-2.8 cm long, stipules 4 × 3 mm, often amplexicaul at the base. Flowers 5 mm long in laxly flowered, terminal and axillary racemes. Pedicel 3-7 mm long. Calyx campanulate, 2.5 mm long. Corolla pink or pale purple; standard obovate; wings oblong, clawed; keel obliquely obovate, long clawed. Ovary linear, style curved. Pods linear, slender, 2-5 cm long, 3–8-jointed, constricted between articles; articles 4-6 × 1.5-2 mm, narrowly oblong-elliptic to linear-oblong, hooked hairy and with a raised reticulation of ribs. Seeds pale buff, oblong-ellipsoid. Fls & Frs:: October-May.\r\nFrequent in open dry places, naturalized in Gujarat. A native of West Indies and Mexico to Peru now naturalised in West Africa, Asia, Taiwan and Malesia. Recently reported as new report to Gujarat state Flora (Patel, 2013).\r\n. Desmodium triangulare var. congestum (Prain) Santapau in Kew Bull. 1948:276. 1948. Desmodium cephalotes Wall. ex Baker in Hk. f. FBI 2:161. 1876. Desmodium cephalotes Wall. ex Baker var. congestum in Journ. As. Soc. Bengal 66:389. 1898; c: 1:375.\r\n An erect shrub or undershrub, 90-150 cm tall; stem and branches sericeo-pubescent in younger parts. Leaves 3-foliolate, leaflets 4.0-8.6×2.2-4.2 cm, elliptic oblong, obovate-oblong or lanceolate, argento-silky-pubescent beneath. Pods 1.0-3.0 cm long, brown, slightly falcate, pubescent, constricted between seeds. Fls & Frs: September-December.\r\nMostly found along river banks in forest undergrowth in South Gujarat region.\r\n12. Desmodium triflorum (L.) DC. Prodr. 2: 334. 1825; FBI 2:173. Hedysarum triflorum L. Sp. Pl. 749. 1753. \r\nProstrate or trailing, slender, glabrous or sparsely hairy herbs, rooting at nodes. Leaves 3-foliolate, leaflets 0.4-1.2 × 0.3-0.8 cm, membranous, sessile or subsessile, obovate, glabrous or sparsely hairy beneath, base cuneate, apex truncate, slightly emarginated, petiole 5 mm. Flowers solitary or 2 or 3 in leaf axils. Pedicel 3–8 mm, elongated to 1.3 cm at fruiting. Calyx densely villous, 5-parted; lobes narrowly lanceolate, longer than tube. Corolla purple-red, nearly as long as calyx; standard obcordate, base attenuate, long clawed; wings elliptic, shortly clawed; keel slightly falcate, longer than wings, curved, long clawed. Stamens diadelphous. Pods 0.5-1.8 cm long, 4-6 jointed, laterally compressed, falcate, appressed hairy, somewhat woody. Seeds subquadrate, greenish-brown, smooth, glabrous. Fls & Frs: Throughout the year. 2n = 22.\r\nThroughout, gregarious in moist ground.\r\n13. Desmodium velutinum (Willd.) DC. Prodr. 2:328. 1825. Hedysarum velutinum Willd. Sp. Pl. 3:1174. 1802. Hedysarum latifolium Roxb. Hort. Beng 57. 1814 (noem) ex Ker. Bot. Reg. 5. Pl. 355 & Descr. 1819. Desmodium latifolium (Roxb. ex Ker.) DC. Prodr. 2:328. 1825; FBI2:168 (excl. D. virgatum Zoll.). \r\nUndershrubs, 60 to 120 cm tall, fulvous-pubescent. Leaves 1-foliolate, rarely intermixed with 3-foliolate leaves; leaflets 4.5-13.6 × 2.8-10.6 cm, broadly ovate or suborbicular, scabridly hairy above, densely so beneath, fulvous-ciliate on margins, petiole 1.5–1.8 cm, densely yellow velutinous.\r\nInflorescences terminal and axillary, racemose or paniculate, 10-30 cm long, terminal ones often broadly paniculate, 2–5-flowered at each node; bracts subulate or lanceolate, 2.5–12 × 0.3–0.7 mm. Pedicel 1.5 mm. Calyx 2–3 mm, 4-lobed. Corolla purple or pink, 3–5 mm; standard obovate-orbicular; wings narrowly elliptic, auriculate; keel narrow, not auriculate. Pods 1.2-2.5 cm long, 3-6 jointed, densely pubescent, apiculate. Fls & Frs: August–November. 2n = 22.\r\n Occasional in the forest undergrowth, rarely along river banks and road sides in the Central and South Gujarat.\r\n','Sandipkumar L. Patel and J. P. Patel (2013). The Genus Desmodium Desv. (Fabaceae) in Gujarat, India .Biological Forum – An International Journal 5(2): 94-99.'),(4515,'122','New record of Pseudozumia indica (de Saussure, 1855) (Hymenoptera: Vespidae: Eumeninae) from Peninsular India','K. P. Mohammed Shareef, Lambert Kishore and P. Girish Kumar','16 MOHMOND SHAREEF.pdf','',1,'Pseudozumia indica (de Saussure) is reported from Peninsular India for the first time with the subspecies P. indica indica (de Saussure) and the species is redescribed.','Pseudozumia indica indica, Eumeninae, Vespidae, Peninsular India, Western Ghats, new record, redescription. ','Pseudozumia indica (de Saussure) is reported from Peninsular India for the first time with the subspecies P. indica indica (de Saussure) and the species is redescribed.','The genus Pseudozumia belongs to the subfamily Eumeninae (Hymenoptera: Vespidae). In 1941, Giordani Soika raised this to genus status, which was previously described under the division of genus Montezumia de Saussure. Pseudozumia is reported only from Oriental Region with five species viz., P. gracilis van der Vecht, P. indica de Saussure, P. indosinensis Giordani Soika, P. orientalis (Gribodo) and P. viridipennis Giordani Soika of which P. indica and P. indosinensis are reported from India. P. indica is a polytypic species with five subspecies such as P. indica borneana Giordani Soika, P. indica continentalis Giordani Soika, P. indica indica (de Saussure), P. indica paulonotata Giordani Soika and P. indica wallacea (Meade-Waldo) of which nominotypical subspecies P. indica indica is recorded from India. \r\nIn India, P. indica indica is so far recorded from Sikkim (Bingham, 1897; Giordani Soika, 1941). In the current paper, P. indica is reported from Peninsular India for the first time with the subspecies P. indica indica. As the original description is inadequate for accurate identification, the species is redescribed based on the collection from Southern Western Ghats.\r\nThe studied specimen was kept in the Department of Zoology, Malabar Christian College (DZMCC), but eventually will be transferred to the Hymenoptera Section of the Zoological Survey of India, Kolkata (NZC).\r\nMATERIAL AND METHODS\r\nThe present study is based on a collection from Arippara (11.42\'N 76.04\'E), hill side valley of Vellarimala, Kozhikode district, Kerala part of Western Ghats.\r\n Abbreviations used for the Museums: MRSN = Museo Regionale di Scienze Naturali, Torino, Italy.\r\n Abbreviations used for the terms: OOL = Ocello ocular length; IOL = Distance between two lateral ocelli; IAL = inter antennal distance; AEL = distance between antenna and eye; IEL = distance between eyes; F1, F2, F10 = Flagellomeres 1, 2 & 10; H = Head; M = Mesosoma; POL = Post ocellar distance; S1 = Metasomal sterna 1; T1-T2 = Metasomal terga 1 to 2.\r\nRESULTS AND DISCUSSION\r\nPseudozumia indica indica (de Saussure, 1855)\r\nMontezumia indica de Saussure, 1855: 167, pl. 9 figs. 4, 4a, female (in division Parazumia), “Java” (lectotype, MRSN); Smith, 1859: 19 (India ); Bingham, 1897: 350, pl. 2 fig. 10 (Sikhim, Java). \r\n Pseudozumia indica: Giordani Soika, 1941: 164 (key), 166 (China: Indo-China; Sikkim). \r\n Pseudozumia indica indica: van der Vecht, 1963: 42, fig. 2e (Java; Bali). \r\n Redescription: Female (Image 1): body length (H+M+T1+T2) 17.8 mm; forewing length 17 mm. \r\n Head: 1.1x wide as long in front view (Image 2); mandible pentadentate, smooth with sparse short golden hairs; clypeus slightly longer than wide with less emargination at apex, finely punctate with fine longitudinal striations and sparse short white hairs; inter antennal space smooth, longitudinally humped; ocular sinus finely punctuate; frons rugosoreticulate, diameter of punctures 3x interspaces, with median groove above inter antennal space; gena and vertex with large variable shallow punctures; OOL same as IOL; IOL 1.3x as POL; IAL 2.5x AEL; IEL at vertex 0.8x as that at clypeus; vertex ( Image 3) with a pair of median deep fovea above lateral ocelli; frons and vertex with sparse short white hairs. Antenna long, slender, scape finely punctate 2.2x F1, F1 2x long as wide, antennomeres are of equal width except F10, F10 1.3x long as wide. \r\nMesosoma (Image 5): pronotum dorsally with large shallow punctures, diameter of punctures 3.6x interspaces, interspaces with fine punctures; anterior face of pronotum smooth; pronotal carina strong at centre, join with an additional carina at lateral corner; pronotal fovea present laterally with transverse striations near to it; pronotum with pretegular carina; mesoscutum (Image 4) with longitudinal carina starts from posteriolateral corner reaches up to level of posterior end of pronotum, parallel to it a wide grove but shorter and closer to carina than from each other; parategula exceeds tegula; axillary fossa deep, slit like; scutellum with short median grove at base; propodeum (Image 6) form a deep cut median grove, heavily punctate, diameter of punctures 1.5x interspaces, punctures near to median grove coalesced to form large fovea, with weak transverse striations laterally, submarginal carina produced and fused with short valvula (image 7); mesopleuron with epicnemial carina; mesoscutum, scutellum and metanotum variably punctate; pronotum laterally, mesoscutum posteriolaterally and tegula finely punctate; mesopleuron and dorsal metapleuron dorsally with large deep punctures; anterior face of pronotum, dorsal metapleuron ventrally, ventral metapleuron and propodeum laterally smooth. Pronotum, lateral side of propodeum, mesopleuron and mesoscutum with short silvery hairs, scutellum and metanotum with long white hairs. Fore wing (image 8) with prestigma 0.85x pterostigma, hind wing as in image 9.\r\n Metasoma (Image 12): T1 with longitudinal median striations (image 11), moderately punctate, 0.6x as wide as T2, 1.5x as long as wide; T2 slightly raised apically like a rim, 1.2x as wide as long, 0.9x as long as T1, finely punctuate; apical lamella absent in T1-T2; S1 (Image 10) with transverse striations at base, irregularly rugose posteriorly.\r\n Material examined: INDIA: Kerala, Kozhikode district, Arippara, 11.42\'N 76.04\'E, Hill stream side, 1F, 9.v.2013, Coll. K.P.Mohammed Shareef.\r\nDistribution: India: Kerala (new record), Sikkim. Elsewhere: Sri Lanka, China, Taiwan, Malaysia, Vietnam, Indonesia.\r\n','K. P. Mohammed Shareef, Lambert Kishore and P. Girish Kumar (2013). New record of Pseudozumia indica (de Saussure, 1855) (Hymenoptera: Vespidae: Eumeninae) from Peninsular India.Biological Forum – An International Journal 5(2): 100-103 .'),(4516,'122','Plants, Animals and Humans with Iron Free Water',' Dr. Bhartendu Ajay','17 DR BHARTNDU AJAY BIHAR.pdf','',1,'Water is the greatest gift of nature and necessity of living organisms. Water is regarded as an universal solvent because more things can be dissolved in water than in any other liquid. Plants require iron at the source from the soil in the form of ferric salts to perform their functions for the synthesis of chlorophyll and formation of carotenoids. Animals especially humans obtain iron at the source of human diet. Though iron in traces is too important means of our life but at some places excessive iron is found in water causing serious problems.\r\nThe method of removal of iron from water consists in oxidation of Fe2+ to Fe3+ metal and its precipitation as Fe(OH)3. If iron is present in water as hydrocarbonate, it can be removed by aeration. Iron can be removed from water by a mixed coagulant consisting of sodium aluminate and ferric chloride (Molar ration, NaAlO2 to FeCl3 is 1:1). Another method to remove iron is to pass water through a bed of highly dispersed suspension of chalk and aluminium hydroxide. Ferric iron can be removed from water by cation exchange method.\r\nThe removal of iron from subsoil sources of filtration is combined with one of the preliminary methods of purification of water, such as simplified aeration, adding oxidants with or without aeration\r\n','Hydrosphere, Universal solvent, Chlorophyll, Haemoglobin, Menstrual discharge, Oxidation, Cation exchanger, Autocatylitic process, Chlorosis, Iron deficiency.','Water is the greatest gift of nature and necessity of living organisms. Water is regarded as an universal solvent because more things can be dissolved in water than in any other liquid. Plants require iron at the source from the soil in the form of ferric salts to perform their functions for the synthesis of chlorophyll and formation of carotenoids. Animals especially humans obtain iron at the source of human diet. Though iron in traces is too important means of our life but at some places excessive iron is found in water causing serious problems.\r\nThe method of removal of iron from water consists in oxidation of Fe2+ to Fe3+ metal and its precipitation as Fe(OH)3. If iron is present in water as hydrocarbonate, it can be removed by aeration. Iron can be removed from water by a mixed coagulant consisting of sodium aluminate and ferric chloride (Molar ration, NaAlO2 to FeCl3 is 1:1). Another method to remove iron is to pass water through a bed of highly dispersed suspension of chalk and aluminium hydroxide. Ferric iron can be removed from water by cation exchange method.\r\nThe removal of iron from subsoil sources of filtration is combined with one of the preliminary methods of purification of water, such as simplified aeration, adding oxidants with or without aeration\r\n','Water is the greatest gift of nature and necessity of living organisms. Hydrosphere, the component of environment, covers more than 75 percent of the earth’s surface either as oceans (salt water) or as fresh water. Water is regarded as an universal solvent because more things can be dissolved in water than in any other liquid. The inorganic compounds are mostly soluble in water and also dissociate to form electrically charged particles, called ions. It is probable that all natural elements are soluble in water at least in trace amounts, and they are all found in natural water at some place or the other on the earth’s surface.\r\nImportance of iron to living organism\r\nPlants require 10-1500 ppm of iron at the source from the soil in the form of ferric salts to perform their functions for the synthesis of chlorophyll and formation of carotenoids, as a constituent of cytochromes activating a number of enzymes. Iron deficiency in plants shows symptoms of interveinal chlorosis, localized or generalized chlorosis etc. [4]. Animals specially humans obtain iron at the source of human diet like liver meat, green vegetables, eggs, \r\n\r\nwhole grains, legumes, nuts etc. meant for major functions as an inactive site of many redox enzymes and electron carriers; haemoglobin; myoglobin etc. Iron deficiency in human diet leads to deficiency of haemoglobin because iron is necessary for the production of haemoglobin; this disease is called microcytic anaemia.\r\nPregnant and lactating mothers need additional dose of iron for the foetus and the infants. Women of child bearing age also require extra dose of iron because of loss of blood at each menstrual discharge [3].\r\nExcessive Iron in Water.\r\n Though iron in traces is too important means of our life but at same places excessive iron is found in water causing serious problems like\r\ni. Yellowing of teeth, clothes, cooking pots, toilets and bathroom floors etc,\r\nii. Loss of appetite,\r\niii. Stomach disorders,\r\niv. Excessive weakness human males in comparison to females etc,\r\nv. Damage of liver causing jaundice,\r\nvi. Ulcer of intestine.\r\nEXPERIMENTAL\r\nWith the purpose to remove iron from water- oxidation, precipitation, aeration, coagulation, filtration and autocatalytic process etc. being applied separately as well as steps in combination.\r\nRemoval of Iron from Water-\r\nThe method of removal of iron from water consists in oxidation of Fe2+ to Fe3+ metal and its precipitation as Fe(OH)3.\r\nIf iron is present in water as hydrocarbonate, it can be removed by aeration. This salt is hydrolysed in the following way.\r\nFe(HCO3)2 + 2H2O → Fe(OH)2 + 2H2CO3\r\nH2CO3 ↔ H2 + CO2\r\nCO2 is removed from water by aeration and, therefore, hydrolysis can be completed to the end. Ferrous hydroxide is oxidized by atmospheric oxygen to Fe(OH)3. \r\n4Fe(OH)2 + 2H2O + O2 → 4Fe(OH)3\r\nThis method can be used to reduce the iron content upto 0.1 to 0.3 mg/litre. Humans interfere with the precipitation of iron, because they act as protective colloids with respect to Fe(OH)2. In such cases, water is treated with chlorine, which oxidizes Fe2+ iron to Fe3+ iron and destroys humans.\r\nFeSO4 is removed from water by treating it with lime.\r\nFeSO4 + Ca(OH)2 → Fe(OH)2 + CaSO4\r\n4Fe(OH)2 + 2H2O + O2 → 4Fe(OH)3\r\nIron can be removed from water by a mixed coagulant consisting of sodium aluminate and ferric chloride (Molar ration, NaAlO2 to FeCl3 is 1:1). The concentration of residual iron does not exceed 0.3 mg/litre. Iron present in organic and inorganic compounds can be removed by this method.\r\nAnother method to remove iron is to pass water through a bed of highly dispersed suspension of chalk and aluminium hydroxide. The iron salts are converted into ferrous carbonate by chalk.\r\nFeSO4 + CaCO3 → FeCO3 + CaSO4\r\nFeCO3 is hydrolysed into ferrous hydroxide.\r\nFeCO3 + 2H2O → Fe(OH)2 + H2CO3\r\nThe Fe2+ iron is then oxidized to Fe3+ iron.\r\n4Fe(OH)2 + 2H2O + O2 → 4Fe(OH)3\r\nThe overall reaction can be represented as,\r\n4CaCO3 + 4FeSO4 + 6H2O + O2 → 4Fe(OH)3 + 4CaSO4 + 4CO2\r\nFerric hydroxide is retained in the suspended filter which contains 16 parts by weight of Al(OH)3 per 100 parts of CaCO3. About 95% of iron present in water can be removed by this method [2].\r\n Ferric iron can be removed from water by the cation exchange method. For example, when water passes through calcium form of cation exchanger, the following reaction occurs.\r\n3CaR + Fe2(SO4)3 → Fe2R3 + 3CaSO4\r\n The iron content can be decreased by this method upto 0.05 mg/litre and even lower.\r\n It has also been observed that ferrous iron is converted into ferric iron when passed through a granular filter (without preliminary oxidation of iron). The process is accompanied by the formation of a ferric oxide film on the grains of the filter, which acts like a catalyst. Hence water is purified from iron by filtration and is an autocatalytic process.\r\n There is, however, no universal method to remove iron from sub soil water, and the selection of a particular method depends on the analysis of water taken from the source.\r\n The removal of iron from sub-soil sources by filtration is combined with one of the preliminary methods of purification of water, such as simplified aeration, adding oxidants with or without aeration.\r\n The simplified aeration consists in that water falls on the filter from a height of 0.5 to 0.6 m. The method is convenient for water containing upto 10 mg/litre of total iron, of which the ferrous iron content should not be less than 70%, because no film is formed on the grains in its absence. [Ref.6]\r\n The investigations have shown that only the presence of ferrous iron in water delivered on the filter provides the conditions under which the film is formed to ensure the high iron-removal effect.\r\nDISCUSSION AND CONCLUSION\r\nWHO International Standard recommended a permissible limit of 0.3 mg/L and an excessive limit of 1.0 mg/L iron in drinking water. Iron tends to precipitate as hydroxides and stain laundry and porcelain fixture. Iron oxides form adherent coatings and lead to tube failures. Heavy metal like iron in water acts as cumulative poisons and accumulates in the bodies of living organisms causing chronic diseases. Iron causes skin and stomach diseases in man. Intestine is unable to absorb suspended iron of water as it is found in the form of ferrous ions. Thus removal of iron from water is necessary for easy consumption and assimilation.\r\n',' Dr. Bhartendu Ajay (2013). Plants, Animals and Humans with Iron Free Water. Biological Forum – An International Journal 5(2): 104-106. '),(4517,'122','Determination of DDQ using Ultra Performance liquid Chromatography ','D.M. Gangrade, Dr. R.K. Nema and Prof. I.J. Singhvi','18 DM GANGRADE MS.pdf','',1,'A simple simple, short and accurate UPLC method was developed on Waters Acquity UPLC for the quantification of the reagent, Dihydro dicyano benzoquinone (DDQ) which is employed for the conversion of 6-methylideneandrosta-4-diene-3, 17- dione to the drug substance, Exemestane is presented. The unreacted or the remnant DDQ from the synthesis appears as a carry-over impurity in the final product. The Method was developed on a Zorbax Eclipse Plus C18 column, using a mobile phase consisting of Water and Acetonitrile, each containing 0.02 % Trifluoroacetic acid, and using a linear gradient. The method was validated as per International Conference of Harmonization (ICH) Guidelines in terms of Specificity, Limit of detection (LOD), Limit of Quantitation (LOQ), Linearity, Precision, Accuracy and Solution Stability. The LOD and LOQ values were found to be 0.002 mg/mL and 0.004 mg/mL, respectively for 0.4µL injection volume. The sample concentration were injected was 10 mg/mL. The method is linear within the range of 0.004-0.03 µg/mL for DDQ.','DDQ; Exemestane; Ultra Performance Liquid Chromatography (UPLC), 6-methylideneandrosta-4-diene-3, 17- Dione; UPLC Method; Dihydro dicyano benzoquinone;','A simple, specific, linear, accurate and precise Reverse phase UPLC method was successfully developed for the quantification of the carry-over impurity – DDQ in Exemestane. Zorbax Eclipsed UPLC column was found to be suitable for the DDQ content in Exemestane. This validated method can be employed for the analysis of DDQ content in Exemestane. The method is also stable and therefore, can be used to monitor the carry-over of DDQ impurity in the final product, and thereby control it in the drug substance. \r\n\r\n','INTRODUCTION\r\nIn the present work we have developed highly sensitive, rapid and time-efficient UPLC Method for the quantification of the carryover of the impurity, DDQ in the purified drug substance, Exemestane.\r\nExemestane, a drug used to treat breast cancer belongs to the class of drugs known as aromatase inhibitors. Estrogen is required for the growth of some breast cancers. Breast cancers that have estrogen receptors (ERs) are called ER-positive which might also be referred to as estrogen-responsive, hormonally-responsive or hormone-receptor-positive. Aromatase is the enzyme that synthesizes estrogen. Inhibitors which block the synthesis of estrogen are called Aromatase inhibitors. It lowers the estrogen level, thereby reducing the growth of cancers. (Fig. 1).\r\nIt is an orally administered steroidal aromatase inhibitor used in ER-positive breast cancer in addition to surgery and/or radiation in post-menopausal women. It is also an irreversible, steroidal aromatase inactivator and structurally related to the natural substrate androstenedione. It acts as a false substrate for the aromatase enzyme, and is processed to an intermediate that binds irreversibly to the active site of the enzyme causing its inactivation, an effect also known as \"suicide inhibition.\" Thus, Exemestane prevents the enzymes from converting the androgens into estrogens. Several routes of synthesis of Exemestane had been reported in patent literatures prior to the work undertaken\r\nOne of the common route of synthesis is conversion of the commercially available Androstenedione to 6-methylideneandrosta-4-diene-3, 17- dione, followed by subsequent dehydrogenation of 6-methylideneandrosta-4-diene-3, 17- dione to the final product, Exemestane [1, 2]. DDQ is used in the synthesis of Exemestane. As per ICH guideline Q11 (Control strategy) it is mandatory to check all the reagent(s) and chemical(s) used in the synthesis of the drug substance [3].\r\n There are several methods for the dehydrogenation of 6-methylideneandrosta-4-diene-3, 17- dione to obtain the desired product i.e., Exemestane. The dehydrogenation reaction, with respect to the synthesis of a wide range of dehydrogenating agents that includes Dehydrogenation with Selenium Dioxide, Enzymatic Dehydrogenation and Amino Alkylation and Oxidation of Boldenone. DDQ is a versatile reagent as it has high oxidant ability and relative stability as compared to others. It is a well known fact that Quinones have the property to oxidize compounds. DDQ can be used to make double bonds, aromatic rings and stable aromatic cations. The reaction of DDQ requires a functionality that is capable of stabilizing the formed cation in the transition state and initiate hydrogen transfer is needed, typically an aromatic moiety. Hydrocarbons lacking these functionalities are stable to the action of DDQ. DDQ can also be used to make C-C or C-O couplings [4-6].\r\nDDQ is employed for the introduction of the required 1, 2-double bond to 6-methylideneandrosta-4-diene-3, 17- dione (Fig. 2).\r\nSeveral methods are also reported for the analysis of Exemestane by HPLC. However, it was found that were no methods were reported for the quantification of DDQ, a Carry-over impurity in Exemestane. Therefore, a sensitive, rugged and time-efficient method was developed and validated on UPLC (Ultra High Pressure Liquid Chromatography) quantification of process related impurity, DDQ. The chromatographic separation was achieved with Zorbax Eclipse C18, 50 mm x 2.1 mm, 1.8 µm using gradient elution. The developed method was validated for parameters like accuracy, linearity, LOD, LOQ, ruggedness. [7,8]\r\nEXPERIMENTAL\r\nChemicals and Reagents. \r\nDDQ was purchased from Sigma-Aldrich Ltd. The analytical reagents required for the quantification of DDQ by UPLC i.e., Trifluoroacetic Acid and Acetonitrile were purchased from Sigma-Aldrich. \r\n\r\nHPLC grade water was obtained from Milli-Q water purification system (Millipore, Milford, USA).\r\nInstrumentation and Software\r\nUPLC analysis was performed using a Waters Acquity system equipped with binary solvent delivery pump and an auto sampler, connected to Waters Empower 2 software. \r\nChromatographic conditions\r\nThe chromatographic separation was performed using a Zorbax Eclipse C18, 50 mm x 2.1 mm, 1.8 µm at a column temperature of 45°C and liquid flow-rate of 0.5 mL / min using 0.02 % Trifluoroacetic acid in Water (Solvent A) and 0.02% Trifluoroacetic acid in Acetonitrile (Solvent B) as mobile phase with a linear gradient set as: T / %B: 0 / 25, 1.5 / 25, 1.6 / 60, 4.0 / 60, 4.1 / 25 and 5.0 / 25. The chromatogram was monitored at a wavelength of 224 nm. The injection volume was 0.3 µl. Acetonitrile was used as the diluent.\r\nValidation of method \r\nSpecificity is the ability of the method to measure the analyte response in the presence of its potential impurities and degradation products. In the presented work, since only one impurity was monitored, the impurity standard (DDQ) solution at the Limit Level and the sample solution with the concentration specified above (20 mg / ml) as well as a spiked standard solution with the above mentioned concentrations were prepared and injected. \r\nThe LOD and LOQ for DDQ were estimated at a Signal-to-noise ratio of 3:1 and 10:1, respectively by injecting a series of diluted solutions with known concentration. The LOD solution was at 0.004mg/ml, whereas the LOQ solution was 0.008mg/ml. \r\nLinearity test solutions for DDQ were prepared at four concentration levels from 0.008mg/ml, to 0.030mg/ml. The peak area versus concentration data was performed by least-squares linear regression analysis. Linearity test solutions were prepared by diluting the impurity stock solution. The calibration curve was drawn by plotting the peak areas of impurities versus its corresponding concentration. The % R.S.D. value of the slope and Y-intercept of the calibration curve was calculated. The Method precision was evaluated by carrying out six independent injections of test sample of Exemestane for the DDQ content and calculated the % R.S.D of the content. The precision of the related substance was checked by injecting six individual preparations of DDQ (20.0 mg/ml) Exemestane spiked with 0.10 % of DDQ with respect to Exemestane concentration.\r\nThe accuracy of method was carried out by injecting known concentration of DDQ to the Exemestane. The accuracy was calculated in terms of recovery (%). The study was carried out in duplicate at covering from 0.008mg/mL to 0.030μg/mL (0.008, 0.010, 0.020 and 0.030 mg/mL) in diluent. The recovery of DDQ was calculated.\r\n RESULTS AND DISCUSSION\r\nOptimization of Chromatographic Condition\r\nStandard stock solution and standard solution prepared in the mobile phase was used for method development. A number of column chemistries supplied by different manufacturers were employed along with various suitable and appropriate mobile phase compositions to obtain good peak shape for the peak of DDQ. Poor peak shape and resolution was observed with Acquity BEH C8 and Acquity BEH Phenyl column. \r\nAnother trial with a mixture of Mobile phase i.e., Water and Acetonitrile: Methanol (80:20) as the organic modifier using Inertsil C18 column and Fortis Biphenyl column, where DDQ eluted closely to Exemestane. Good peak shape and resolution was achieved using a mobile phase composition of Water and Acetonitrile each containing 0.02% TFA and employing a linear gradient (Fig. 4).\r\nValidation Results of the method\r\nThe above method on UPLC was finalized after evaluation of the validation parameters of Specificity, LOD, LOQ, Linearity, Accuracy, Precision and Stability. The Specificity of the method was determined by injecting DDQ and Exemestane and subsequently determining the peak purity of the peak of DDQ. \r\nThe LOD and LOQ concentrations were estimated at 0.004 mg / mL and 0.008 mg / mL respectively for DDQ. The % RSD for Area of the peak of DDQ for the LOQ Level solution was less than 0.6. Therefore, this method had adequate sensitivity for the detection and estimation of DDQ in Exemestane. (Fig. 5, 6).\r\n\r\nLinearity of DDQ was evaluated over four levels of DDQ solutions ranging from 0.008 mg/mL to 0.030 mg/mL, with the linear regression equation y = mx + c, where x is the concentration in mg/mL, and y is the corresponding peak area of DDQ. We observed linear results with respect to concentration of DDQ. The correlation coefficient value is more than 0.999. The linearity graph was shown in Fig. 7. \r\n \r\n\r\nThe Standard Addition and Recovery experiments were conducted for DDQ in Exemestane samples in duplicate at 0.008mg/mL to 0.030mg/mL (0.008, 0.010, 0.020, and 0.030 mg/mL). The accuracy was performed in terms of Recovery (%). The Recovery was calculated by concentration at each level in each preparation. The recovery was found to be not less than 90.0% and not more than 110.0% Fig (Table 1). (Fig 8). \r\n \r\n\r\nThe Repeatability criterion was expressed as relative standard deviation (RSD). For this study, solution of Exemestane (20 mg/mL) spiked with DDQ (0.1%, 0.020 mg/mL) was analyzed in six replicate injections to establish repeatability. RSD values were better than 1.0% for the retention times of DDQ. All these values indicated that the method was precise. \r\nThe stability of the solution and the mobile phase used in the method was tested over a long period of time. However, no significant change in DDQ content was observed in Exemestane sample during the solution stability experiments, and the RSD values were less than 2.0% for peak area of DDQ. Hence, it could be concluded that the DDQ sample solution and the mobile phase were stable for at least 24 hours.\r\n\r\n','D.M. Gangrade, Dr. R.K. Nema and Prof. I.J. Singhvi (2013). Determination of DDQ using Ultra Performance liquid Chromatography .Biological Forum – An International Journal 5(2): 107-113.'),(4518,'122','Diversity and Chemical Composition of some Promising Chestnut Castanea sativa Accessions from Kashmir Valley','Amardeep Kour and A.H. Pandit','19 AMARDEEP KOUR.pdf','',1,'Fifty Chestnut, Castanea sativa genotypes comprising of 40 genotypes from Harwan area, 6 from Shalimar (SKAUST-K) and rest from Emporium Garden Lal Chowk were evaluated based on different parameters (bearing habit, number of nuts per bur, number of plump fruits per bur, nut weight, nut size, pellicle adhesion and intrusion, cropping efficiency. The clustering of these accessions grouped them into 12 different clades having less than 25 per cent genetic variability among them. The representative of each clade was evaluated for its chemical composition. On dry matter basis (mg/g) total carbohydrates ranged between 732.4-861.3, total phenols 0.63-4.10, total soluble sugars 190-337, reducing sugars, 28-60, and non reducing sugars 175-281, invert sugar 9.4-12.4, crude cellulose 30.0-48.0, proteins 76.0-120.5, starch 530.57-620.8, sucrose 80.6-210.8, ash 10.0-22.0, total fat 6.7-14.5.','Castanea sativa, Chestnut, chemical composition and diversity analysis. ','Fifty Chestnut, Castanea sativa genotypes comprising of 40 genotypes from Harwan area, 6 from Shalimar (SKAUST-K) and rest from Emporium Garden Lal Chowk were evaluated based on different parameters (bearing habit, number of nuts per bur, number of plump fruits per bur, nut weight, nut size, pellicle adhesion and intrusion, cropping efficiency. The clustering of these accessions grouped them into 12 different clades having less than 25 per cent genetic variability among them. The representative of each clade was evaluated for its chemical composition. On dry matter basis (mg/g) total carbohydrates ranged between 732.4-861.3, total phenols 0.63-4.10, total soluble sugars 190-337, reducing sugars, 28-60, and non reducing sugars 175-281, invert sugar 9.4-12.4, crude cellulose 30.0-48.0, proteins 76.0-120.5, starch 530.57-620.8, sucrose 80.6-210.8, ash 10.0-22.0, total fat 6.7-14.5.','Chestnut, Castanea sativa grows throughout the Himalayas up at altitudes of 2000 to 3000 m asl for its edible nuts. The term ‘bread tree’ or ‘the grain that grows on tree’ has been used in some places for chestnuts, which has been one of the fundamental nutrients used in human nutrition. The term “bread tree” has been used in some places for chestnuts, which has been one of the fundamental nutrients used in human nutrition (Bounous et al, 2000). The fruit is rich in carbohydrates and low in fat content. This characteristic increases its use in diets. Chestnut is widely used as a food by cooking as well as in cake and candy industry (Anon, 2000). Fresh chestnuts have a high caloric-content (160 K cal per 100 g of edible product), high carbohydrate content (sugar and starch) i.e. 34 g average per 100 g of fresh edible product. It is widely being considered as a valid alternative food for children who are allergic to milk or lactose intolerant and its flour is an ideal carbohydrate alternative for those individuals with cereal intolerance (coelics). Protein content of fresh product is equivalent to that of milk and is of high quality as it contains essential amino acids (tryptophan, lysine and the sulfonated amino acids, methionine and cystenine) and is comparable to the protein content of eggs, considered ideal for amino acid balance. Keeping in view the nutritional potential of these nuts, the first attempt was made to catalogue its available genetic resources from district Srinagar of Kashmir valley and categorize them on the basis of different morphological and chemical parameters. The differences could be detected among the species and the cultivars with respect to their nutritional value. \r\n\r\nThis fact should especially be considered in selection studies. In this way, the genotypes with higher nutritional value as well as high yield and other quality characteristics could be improved. This work was carried out with the aim of determining the chemical composition of some selected important domestic accessions of the chestnut from the valley.\r\nMATERIALS AND METHODS\r\nFifty genotypes were identified as evaluated comprising of 40 genotypes from Harwan area, 6 from Shalimar (SKAUST-K) and rest from Emporium Garden Lal Chowk based on different parameters (bearing habit, number of nuts per bur, number of plump fruits per bur, nut weight, nut size, pellicle adhesion and intrusion, cropping efficiency). Finally the genetic distance was calculated among the various accessions by construction of dendrogram using SAS. From the 12 different clades each representative accession (HSC026, HSC002, HSC014, HSC040, HSC013, HSC029, HSC044, HSC016, HSC022 and HSC042, SKC044 and HSC036) was evaluated for chemical composition. The fruits were harvested at the end of September through the middle of October. The samples of about 120-150 g fruit that were randomly sampled were squashed with a mortar after their outer shells and seed coat (testa) were removed and analysis were carried out. The dry matter contents of the samples were determined by drying them overnight in the hot-air oven at 105°C. Ash analysis was carried out by burning the sample in muffle furnace at 525°C for 8 h. Total protein quantity was calculated by multiplying the nitrogen content using Kjeldahl method by the coefficient 5.30 (AOAC, 1990). \r\n \r\n Kour and Pandit 115\r\n \r\nCrude cellulose quantity was determined according to the method reported in Association of Official Agricultural Chemists (AOAC) (AOAC, 1990). Total fat quantity was found after extraction with ether for 6 h in soxhelet device (AOAC, 1990). Dinitrophenol method was utilised in the analysis of total carbohydrates, total sugar and invert sugar (Ross, 1959) using the spectrophotometer. Starch quantity was calculated by multiplying the value obtained through subtracting the total sugars from total carbohydrates by the coefficient 0.94. The sugars and sucrose was determined as per method described by Galdon and Rodriguez (Galdon et al, 2009). The phenolic content was estimated by colorimetric assay described by Singleton and Rossi (Singleton et al, 1965)\r\nRESULTS AND DISCUSSION\r\nTotal carbohydrates: Total carbohydrate quantities ranged between 732.4 and 861.3 mg/g depending on cultivars. The maximum carbohydrate content was recorded in HSC013 and this was significantly superior compared to all the accessions followed by HSC029 and HSC042. The latter two were at par with each other and significantly better as compared to all the other accessions. The least carbohydrate content was observed in HSC014 and this was significantly lower than all the other accessions. The chestnut fruits generally contained high rates of carbohydrates; this was 86.26 g/100g in American chestnuts (C. dentata Borkh.) (McCarthy et al 1988), 87.50 g/100g in the Chinese chestnuts (McCarthy et al 1988; Anon, 2003c) and 71.68 - 88.10 g/100g in European chestnuts (McCarthy et al 1988; Künsch et al, 1999; Bounous, 1999; Bounous et al, 2000). The carbohydrate content in accessions from valley has a wide variation falling in the range of 73.24 – 86.13 g/100g. This value changed nearly 16 per cent in the different materials of C. sativa species (Bounous et al, 2000; Anon, 2003a.). The accessions in the study also show about 15 per cent variation in carbohydrate content in the highest and lowest one. \r\nPhenols: The total phenolic content between 0.63 and 4.10 mg/g. The maximum phenols were recorded in HSC036 and this was significantly higher than all the other accessions except HSC002 and HSC022. The accession HSC013 recorded the least phenolic content and this was at par with the accession HSC040 and HSC016. The highest o-dihydroxy phenolic content was recorded HSC002 and this was significantly higher than all the other accessions except in HSC029, HSC044 and HSC026. The lowest o-dihydroxy phenolic content was observed in SKC044 and this was further at par with HSC040, HSC013 and HSC042. Our results are in tune with the findings of (Gu et al, 2004) reporting that most of the castanea tissues are rich in both simple phenolics and complex tannins. Low levels (0.1-0.02 g/100g) have been reported in chestnut fruits (Gu et al, 2004). However, other chestnut tissues e.g, leaves, wood and bark, have higher levels of these phenolics (Barreira et al, 2008). Epidemiological studies show that many polyphenol compounds present in fruits, vegetables, nuts, wine and tea are partly responsible for their beneficial health effects. Phenol compounds are secondary metabolites with considerable physiological and metabolic importance in plants. These compounds play an important role in growth and reproduction, providing protection against pathogens and predators the higher content of phenols in chestnut might be responsible for its hardy nature and resistance to diseases and insects.\r\nSugars: Total sugar soluble contents changed between 190 and 337 mg/g. The maximum sucrose content was observed in HSC044 and this was significantly higher than that observed in all the other accessions followed by HSC002 and HSC022, the latter two were significantly different from each other and superior as compared to all the other accessions. The lowest total sugar content was observed in the SKC044 and it was significantly lower as compared to all the other accessions. This range of sucrose content in the studied accessions was similar to those obtained by Bounous et al., (2000) and Bounous et al., (2000) which were 14.01-20.60 and 20.38 g/100 g, respectively. The invert sugar content of the cultivars ranged between 9.4 and 13.3 mg/g. The invert sugar content among the various accessions was at par with each other. Pavaia et al, (1993) found the invert sugar quantity of the cultivars between 0.82 and 3.56 g/100g. The invert sugar contents of the cultivars examined were somewhat lower than these values as the share of invert sugar in total sugars was quite low, ranging between 3.67 and 5.68 for the accession with highest (HSC044) an lowest (SKC044) lowest total soluble sugars. The maximum amount of reducing sugar was observed in HSC029 and this was significantly higher as compared to that observed in all the other accessions followed by HSC026, the later was at par with SKC044. The lowest reducing sugar content was observed in HSC014 and this was significantly lower as compared to all the other accessions except HSC016. The maximum non-reducing sugar content was observed in the HSC002 and this was significantly higher as compared to all the accessions except HSC042. The reducing sugar content in the chestnut comprised of 51.9 to 88.94 percent of the total sugar accession with highest (HSC044) and lowest (SKC044) lowest total soluble sugars. The lowest non-reducing sugar content was observed in SKC044 and this was further at par with that observed in HSC014 and HSC044. \r\nStarch: Starch quantities ranged from 530.57 to 620.8 mg/g with among the different accessions. The maximum starch content was observed in HSC042 and this was significantly higher as compared to all the other accessions followed by HSC013 and HSC029, the latter two were further at par with SKC044 and HSC036. The lowest starch content was recorded in HSC002 and it was significantly lower compared to all the accessions except HSC044. The starch content reported in chestnut was generally ranged between 49.60 and 65.40g /100g in different species (Bounous et al, 2000; Liu, 1993; Bounous et al, 2000) and this was in tune with our findings. \r\n \r\n\r\n Kour and Pandit 116\r\n \r\nHowever, lower (29.80 g/100g) or higher (80 g/100g) starch content than observed in the present studies has been reported by Üstün et al (1999) and Demiate et al (2001), respectively. A part of starch changes into sugars during storage, thus the ratio of sugars increases and that of starch decreases (Soylu et al, 1987). The correlation between the starch and sugar content reflects a strong negative correlation of -0.78, which may be indicative of the variable level of conversion of starch into sugars in these accessions.\r\nSucrose: The sucrose quantities of the cultivars changed between 80.6 and 210.8 mg/g. The maximum sucrose content was observed in HSC022 and this was significantly higher compared to all the accessions except HSC013. The lowest sucrose content was observed in HSC016 and this was significantly lower as compared to that observed in all the other accessions. The sucrose content have a positive correlation with the total sugars and it was observed to be 0.54 for these accessions. Pavaia et al (1993) reported the sucrose content between 10.45 and 19.74 g/100g while Künsch et al (1999) observed 12.40 g/ 100g; the accessions from Kashmir valley were slightly in a broader range of 20.08 to 8.06 g/100g. \r\n Ash quantity: The ash content ranged between 10.0 and 22.0 mg/g among accessions. The maximum was observed in HSC040 and this was at par with that observed in HSC013, HSC016, HSC026 and HSC036. The minimum quantity of ash was reported in HSC022 and this was significantly lower compared to all the other accessions except HSC044. The quantity of ash reported in chestnut ranged between 0.83 and 4.92 g/100g in various species and genotypes (Brighenti et al, 1998; Üstün et al, 1999; Demiate et al, 2001; Anon, 2003b, Sundriyal & Sundriyal, 2001; Anon, 2003c.), however the ash quantity in accessions from Kashmir valley had a very narrow range of 1.0 to 2.2 g/100 \r\nCrude cellulose: The crude cellulose quantities of the cultivars ranged from 33.8 to 56.0 mg/g. The maximum crude cellulose content was reported in HSC014 and this was significantly higher compared to all the accessions. However in most of the accessions such as HSC026, HSC002, HSC029, HSC044 and SKC044 the crude cellulose content was in a closer range of 44.0 to 48.0 mg/ g and all these were at par with each other. The least cellulose content was observed in HSC013 and it was significantly lower as compared to all the other accessions except HSC042. Demiate et al (2001) found the crude cellulose quantity in Brazilian cultivars (C. sativa) as 2.34 g/100g however, Sundriyal and Sundriyal (2001) reported the crude cellulose content in American, European and Chinese chestnuts between 1.00 and 2.00 g/100g. The accessions from valley showed the notable differences in crude cellulose quantity between 3.0 and 5.6 g/100g. \r\nTotal fat: The total fat content of the samples ranged from 5.6 to 14.0 mg/g. The maximum fat content was observed in HSC029 and it was significantly higher compared to all other accessions except HSC044, SKC044 and HSC036. Minimum fat content was observed in HSC022 and this was significantly lower as compared to all the other accessions except HSC040, HSC013 and HSCO26. This fat content ranging between 0.66 and 5.59 g/100g has been reported in the cultivars belonging to the species C. sativa Mill. (Ferreria-Cardoso et al, 1993; Demiate et al, 2001; Soylu et al, 1987; Anon, 2003b). Fat content was determined as 1.98 mg/g in the Chinese chestnuts (Anon, 2003c) and as 0.38 g/100g in some Australian cultivars (Sundriyal & Sundriyal, 2001). Only few of the Indian chestnuts showed the fat content as reported in Australian cultivars. However most of them showed higher fat content but this was less as reported in Chinese cultivars.\r\nTotal protein: Total protein quantity ranged between 76.0 and 120.5 mg/g among the various accessions. The maximum protein content was reported in SKC044 and this was significantly higher than all other accessions followed by HSC014 and HSC029, the latter two were significantly different from each other. The lowest protein content was reported in HSC044 and this was significantly lower as compared to all the other accessions. The protein content was reported between 3.43 and 13.28 g/100g in C. sativa Mill. Cultivars (Pavaia et al, 1993; Ferreria-Cardoso et al, 1993; Brighenti et al, 1998; Bounous, 1999; Üstün et al, 1999; Anon, 2003a). This range was narrower in the Chinese chestnuts being between 2.12 and 7.49 g/100g (McCarthy et al, 1988; Anon, 2003c). However higher range was observed in Indian-Kashmir chestnuts i.e between 7.6 to 12.05 g/100g.\r\nThe accessions identified offer a wide variety of chestnut diversity and very promising sources based on chemical profile. The study offers a first and basic platform to identify the promising accessions which can be utilized for breeding programme keeping in view the nutritive potential of this fruit. From a general point of view, the chemical composition of chestnut may vary depending on the source from which the fruits were taken. However it can be stated that fruit of chestnut contained mainly carbohydrates, mostly in starch and sucrose form. It is also good source of antioxidants indicated by the phenolic content as well as rich source of proteins. From the various composition and health studies it is clear that chestnut fruits, and potentially other extracts from chestnut trees, have considerable potential as functional foods or as food ingredients, e.g. chestnut polyphenolic extracts as a natural source of antioxidants and other beneﬁcial compounds such as gallic, ellagic acids and ellagitannins. The beneﬁts that this fruit can provide for human and animal health are numerous, but it is clear that improvements can be made for both production and quality of chestnut products, e.g. genetic selection and optimizing industrial processing.\r\n','Amardeep Kour and A.H. Pandit (2013). Diversity and Chemical Composition of some Promising Chestnut Castanea sativa Accessions from Kashmir Valley. Biological Forum – An International Journal 5(2): 114-118.'),(4519,'122','Survey of Predatory Mites (Acari: Phytoseiidae) Associated With Economically Important Plants of North Kerala','Sajna Haneef and Mary Anithalatha Sadanandan','21 SAHJNA HANEEF REVISED.pdf','',1,'The paper embodies the results of a survey conducted on the predatory mite fauna associated with 32 species of economically important plants belonging to 27 genera and 21 families grown in three districts of North Kerala. The results yielded 15 species of predatory mites belonging to 6 genera viz., Amblyseius, Typhlodromips, Euseius, Neoseiulus, Phytoseius and Paraphytoseius which comes under the sub order Mesostigmata.','Predatory mites, Phytoseiidae, North Kerala','The paper embodies the results of a survey conducted on the predatory mite fauna associated with 32 species of economically important plants belonging to 27 genera and 21 families grown in three districts of North Kerala. The results yielded 15 species of predatory mites belonging to 6 genera viz., Amblyseius, Typhlodromips, Euseius, Neoseiulus, Phytoseius and Paraphytoseius which comes under the sub order Mesostigmata.','Predatory mites deserve special mention in an agricultural country like India, where agriculture is always under the threat of constant pest attack. Predatory mites of the family Phytoseiidae constitute a highly significant beneficial group on account of their vital role in the maintenance of pest population below economic injury level. Predatory mites are now valued with growers worldwide as natural enemies that provide effective pest control in greenhouses and on agricultural crops (Bjorson 2008). Phytoseiid mites have received global attention since the 1950’s due to their importance as natural predators of phytophagous mites and small insects and therefore are useful in the biological and integrated control of crop pests (Swirskii et al., 1997). \r\n The widespread use of synthetic organic compound against insects as target pests has toxic effects on other non target organisms in both lower and higher trophic levels (Dejan et al., 2011). Consumers worldwide are now strongly demanding agricultural products grown with few or no chemicals. Many farmers are aware of the dangers of excessive chemicals and are now trying to replace chemicals with natural enemies or organic pesticide. Biological control with natural enemies such as predators, parasites or pathogens is viable alternative to chemical control measures. Natural enemies can be native or introduced. The use of natural enemies prevents environmental risks associated with chemical pesticides, while sustainably protecting the crop, given that the biological control agent does not cause any harmful non-target effects. Predatory mites of the family Phytoseiidae are of economic importance because they efficiently control pest mites in many crops around the world (Sabelis, 1985).\r\n\r\n\r\nThe species of Phytoseiidae are potentially important as a biotic factor in the control of phytophagous mites particularly tetranychid and eriophyid mites. Mass multiplication methods have been developed to use these predators in commercial scale on a variety of crops. The most important predatory mites explored in this regard include members of Phytoseiidae, Cheyletidae, Cunaxidae, Stigmaeidae, Bdellidae, Tydeidae, Anystidae and Erythraeidae. Biological control of phytophagous mites by predatory mites (Family: Phytoseiidae) had been proved successful alternative to conventional chemical control, especially on green house crops (Gerson et al., 2007).\r\n Faunistic studies on Phytoseiidae of the country has fairly well progressed,189 species have been reported from the country, compared to 2280+ species from the world (Mallik et al., 2010). Despite of the relevance of predatory mites they have not acquired desired recognition in many parts of the world, especially in Kerala. Considering the above situation the present survey makes an attempt to unravel the predatory mite (Family: Phytoseiidae) population on economically important plants from three districts of North Kerala, viz., Wayanad, Kozhikode and Malappuram.\r\nMATERIAL AND METHODS\r\nThe predatory mite fauna (Family: Phytoseiidae) harbouring on various species of economically important plants were collected by making extensive surveys covering different localities of Wayanad, Kozhikode and Malappuram districts. Sampling were carried out from October 2012 to March 2013.\r\n A total of 32 species belonging to 27 genera and 21 families of economically important plants were surveyed. \r\nThey comprised fruit crops, vegetables, tuber crops and medicinal plants. Table 1 provides information on the various species of plants surveyed from three districts. Phytoseiid mites of comparatively larger size and fast moving nature were collected directly from the field with the help of hand lens and camel hair brush. They were preserved in 70% alcohol until permanent slides were prepared. Beating method was generally adopted for the collection of predatory mites directly from the field .The mite infested plant parts were beaten over dark coloured rexin sheet and the mites thus dislodged were picked up with a moistened camel hair brush. The mites picked up were stored in 70% alcohol containing a few drops of lactic acid. They were then upgraded in alcohol series and then mounted in Hoyers medium permanently. After mounting, the slides were kept in an oven at 40-45°c or under a table lamp for at least two days which hastens the clearing process and subsequent drying of the slides. The specimens were thoroughly examined and identified with the help of relevant literature and also seeking opinion from experts.\r\nRESULTS AND DISCUSSION \r\n The results of the survey revealed the occurrence of 15 species of mites belonging to 6 genera viz., Amblyseius, Typhlodromips, Neoseiulus, Euseius, Phytoseius and Paraphytoseius under the sub order Mesostigmata (Table 1). Under the genus Amblyseius 8 species were recorded viz., A. aerialis, A. indirae, A. channabasavannai, A. kundurukkae, A. largoensis, A. orientalis, A. herbicolus, A. kulini. Under the genus Euseius 2 species were recovered, E. coccinea and E. alstoniae respectively. T. syzygii is the only species recovered from genus Typhlodromips. The genus Phytoseius gave 2 species, P. wainsteini and P. punjabensis respectively. A single species was obtained from genus Neoseiulus, viz., N. longispinosis. P. scleroticus \r\nis the only species obtained from genus Paraphytoseius. \r\nThe family Phytoseiidae has been reported as the largest family of Gamasida (Mesostigmata) with more than 1000 species described which has gained importance in biological control of Tetranychid mites in various agro-ecosystems. (Mc Murty, 1982; Mc Murty et al.,1989). Phytoseiid mites are well known predators and have got immense significance in IPM programs to control different phytophagous mites, small soft bodied insects and their eggs.\r\n Chant & Yoshida Shaul,1992 have mentioned more than 1614 species of Phytoseiid’s have been described in the world so far and they further opine that this trend would keep increasing mainly under the two sub families, Amblyseiinae and Phytoseiinae of the family Phytoseiidae. \r\nHowever our knowledge on the Phytoseiid mite is still in its infancy as only 189 species were reported so far from India .In this context the result of the study appear to be quite encouraging as 32 species could be recovered during the survey. Further, results of the study revealed the prevalance and species diversity of the genus Amblyseius on various species of plants surveyed (Table 1).\r\n The Phytoseiid mites, especially those belonging to genera like Amblyseius, Neoseiulus and Euseius have been considered as important predators of tetranychids, eriophyids, tarsonemids, thrips, white flies and so on (Mc Murty and Rodriguez,1989). The distribution of species of Amblyseius, Neoseiulus, Euseius and Phytoseius as observed during the study in association with spider mites and insects like coccids white flies etc also supports the above findings. The relative abundance of the various genera recovered during the survey could therefore be represented as Amblyseius > Euseius = Phytoseius > Neoseiulus = Typhlodromips = Paraphytoseius.\r\n','Sajna Haneef and Mary Anithalatha Sadanandan (2013).Survey of Predatory Mites (Acari: Phytoseiidae) Associated With Economically Important Plants of North Kerala. Biological Forum – An International Journal 5(2): 119-122'),(4520,'122','Biodiversity of Mycoflora in Rhizosphere and Rhizoplane of Some Indian Herbs','Vivek Srivastava* and Dr. Aditya Kumar','20 DR ADITYA.pdf','',1,'Rhizosphere and rhizoplane of most of the plants is always rich in various populations of microorganisms. The microorganisms, on a continuous scale forms parasitic to mutualistic association with plants. The present study deals with the investigation of fungal population in the roots vicinity of Aloe vera, Argemone maxicana, Abutilon indicum, Amaranthus polygamus and Achyranthus aspera. All these five species found to grow in wild and northern plains of India. A total number of 37 species of fungi were isolated and the number of fungi was found to be maximum in rhizosphere region than the non-rhizosphere region. Maximum number of fungal species were found in Abutilon indicum (11) followed by Aloe vera (9), Achyranthus aspera (9), Amaranthus polygamus (8) and Argemone maxicana (7). Though, some common genera were reported in both rhizosphere and rhizoplane region, yet a few forms like Chaetomium spirale, C.globosum, Stachybotrys atra and Royella albida were confined only to rhizoplane. Furthermore, Glomus mosseae and Acaulospora laevis were found dominant mycorrhizal species in the rhizospheric soil of all five medicinal plant species. The study confirmed that the biodiversity of mycoflora differs in rhizosphere and rhizoplane of selected medicinal herbs.','Medicinal plants, Rhizosphere, Rhizoplane, Mycoflora','Rhizosphere and rhizoplane of most of the plants is always rich in various populations of microorganisms. The microorganisms, on a continuous scale forms parasitic to mutualistic association with plants. The present study deals with the investigation of fungal population in the roots vicinity of Aloe vera, Argemone maxicana, Abutilon indicum, Amaranthus polygamus and Achyranthus aspera. All these five species found to grow in wild and northern plains of India. A total number of 37 species of fungi were isolated and the number of fungi was found to be maximum in rhizosphere region than the non-rhizosphere region. Maximum number of fungal species were found in Abutilon indicum (11) followed by Aloe vera (9), Achyranthus aspera (9), Amaranthus polygamus (8) and Argemone maxicana (7). Though, some common genera were reported in both rhizosphere and rhizoplane region, yet a few forms like Chaetomium spirale, C.globosum, Stachybotrys atra and Royella albida were confined only to rhizoplane. Furthermore, Glomus mosseae and Acaulospora laevis were found dominant mycorrhizal species in the rhizospheric soil of all five medicinal plant species. The study confirmed that the biodiversity of mycoflora differs in rhizosphere and rhizoplane of selected medicinal herbs.','Herbal plants are of immense medicinal value for drugs and pharmaceutical industries. The growth of the herbal plants also depends on the population of soil microorganism present in their rhizosphere and rhizoplane area of plants as these microorganisms constitutes one of the important biotic and ecological factors responsible for plant growth. Hiltner (1904) introduced the term rhizosphere for the soil zone just adjacent to plant roots and Clark (1949) introduced the term rhizoplane to denote the external plant root surface and the closely adhering soil particles and debris. Fungal population in the rhizosphere and rhizoplane areas show a qualitative change with age of plants and also along with changing environment. Lugo et al. (2003), Moore et al. (2004) observed seasonal changes in the composition of AM fungi. The present paper includes the study of fungal biodiversity of rhizosphere and rhizoplane area of five wild medicinal plants, Abutilon indicum, Aloe vera, Argemone maxicana, Amaranthus polygamus and Achyranthus aspera. The leaves of Abutilon indicum are used against bronchitis, diarrhea and urethritis and roots are diuretic including pulmonary sedative in nature. Aloe vera leaves are antihelmintic, antidotal, anti inflammatory and also used for gonorrhea, constipation, menstrual suppression, piles and jaundice. The juice of Argemone mexicana are given for dropsy, rheumatic pains, scabies, warts, hepatic eruptions and asthma and whooping cough. Amaranthus polygamus is a small herbaceous annual herb. The decoction of leaves and roots are given in eczema, menorrhagia, leucorrhoea and colic pains where as Achyranthus aspera juice is used as laxative, stomachic, depurative, pectoral, astringent, hastens labour pains and cause abortion.\r\nMATERIAL AND METHODS\r\nSite description: The soil samples of five medicinal plants were collected from Rishinagar sewage disposal area of Hisar city. The study area is situated at 29°10´ northern latitude and 75°46´ eastern longitude on north-western region of Haryana. The climate of the area is continental type with very hot summers and relatively cool winter.\r\nSoil and plant root sampling: Soil samples were collected from the root zone of five medicinal plant species up to a depth of 15-30 cm and were wet sieved for spore isolation using the technique of Gerdemann and Nicolson (1963). For cultural investigations of mycoflora of rhizosphere and rhizoplane, soil samples were taken and roots were removed from the plant. The isolation of mycoflora was done using the technique as suggested by Sullia (1966) and Martin (1950) medium. \r\nFurther, the isolation of soil fungi was done using serial plate dilution technique given by Warcup (1950).\r\nIdentification of Mycoflora: The identification of mycoflora were done by using keys of Walker (1983), Schenk and Perez (1990), Garrett (1956) and Mukerji (1996).\r\nRESULTS AND DISCUSSION\r\nThe results obtained in the present study showed that on quantitative basis, the number of fungi was less in rhizoplane region than rhizospheric region. It was also found that as the age of the plants increased, the number of fungal population also increased. The mycoflora of rhizosphere and rhizoplane also differ qualitatively but some genera like Chaetomium spirale, C.globosum, Stachybotrys atra and Royella albida were found to be present only in the rhizoplane. Out of all the five medicinal plants a total number of 37 species of fungi were isolated in both the rhizosphere and rhizoplane mycoflora but number of fungi was found maximum in the rhizosphere region as compared to rhizoplane region (Table 1). \r\nMaximum number of fungal species were found in Abutilon indicum (11) followed by Aloe vera (9), Achyranthus aspera (9), Amaranthus polygamus (8) and Argemone maxicana (7) in the rhizosphere region. Shaikh and Nadaf (2013) also screened various rhizospheric fungal isolates from different soil samples of rice and found that hyphomycetes were predominant in most of the tested rice varieties. The rhizoplane mycoflora has ten fungal species in case of Abutilon indicum followed by Aloe vera (9), Achyranthus aspera (8), Argemone maxicana (8) and Amaranthus polygamus (6) respectively. The above results showed that Mucorales and Fusari remained dominating and constant in rhizosphere region. \r\nSimilarly Aspergillus flavus and A. niger were also dominates in the rhizosphere region. Gadgil (1965) also observed the colonization of hypomycetes fungi in the root region. Similarly, fungal diversity in rhizosphere soil of several crops has also been well documented by Gopal and Kurein (2013). The results in the present investigation are also in conformity with the work of Sule and Oyeyiola (2012) who observed different fungal isolates in the rhizosphere and rhizoplane of cassava cultivar. It was observed that physio-chemical characters of the soil such as pH, water retention capacity and soil structure had improved as a result of cassava cultivation and more fungi were stimulated on the rhizoplane than in the rhizosphere. Association of arbuscular mycorrhizal fungi with the roots of medicinal and aromatic plants have also been observed Gupta et al. (2009). \r\n','Vivek Srivastava* and Dr. Aditya Kumar (2013) Biodiversity of Mycoflora in Rhizosphere and Rhizoplane of Some Indian Herbs. Biological Forum – An International Journal 5(2): 123-125.'),(4521,'122','Ambient Air Pollution Monitoring In Urban Area of Indore City with Special Reference to Total Suspended Particulate Matter','Atul Thakkar','22 DR ATUL THAKKAR.pdf','',1,'The Paper reports the Ambient Pollution level at different location of Indore city. The relationship between human disease and exposure to pollution is neither simple nor adequately understood Respirable dust (TSPM of less than 10 micron size) is an important air pollutant of concern on account of its ability to reach alveoli of human lungs during respiration. There is little information available regarding the concentration and pattern of diurnal change of this important parameter in the ambient air in urban environment. Organic, Inorganic and biological materials comprise particulates air pollutants and cause toxic effects. The present study deals with the particulates matter collected from different polluted location and its effects. Data for total TSPM and equated 24 hours average TSPM (Total suspended particulate matter) is also presented and discussed.','-','In our study we will find that the data collected from various sites of Indore shows that the concentration of Total Suspended Particulate Matter level is high during peak traffic hours.','Total Suspended particulate matter is major air pollutant in India. The level of TSPM in ambient air have been found to be remain about the permissible level, the composition of TSPM include organic and inorganic matter. The suspended particulate matter is present in troposphere and lower stratosphere, where they stay for long period. These pollutants are observing in water, soil, Vegetation, Respiration organs etc. Causing several health hazard and injurious on the living biota. \r\nSPM are commonly associated with gaseous pollutants of Industrial and Urban areas. In India, The amount of particulates in ambient air is very high as compared to temperature countries. Indore is an important city and the commercial capital of Madhya Pradesh with a population of over 3,276,697 lakh and Density 839 per Sq. Km. (Reported in the year 2011).\r\nIndore enjoys a high ratio of number of vehicles to population (1: 4) which has resulted in to increased air pollution problem in recent years. The present communication deals with ambient TSPM levels at different locations in Indore city. The study deals with the preliminary investigation on concentration of respirable dust at the road side of the core city area of Indore, during peak traffics hours.\r\n\r\nMATERIALS METHODS\r\nAir sampling equipment High volume sample is the equipment which is used to monitor the SPM. The SPM concentration was collected on glass fiber filter cable by drawing air at rate of 1.1 to 1.4 m3 / min by high volume sampler. The filter used in a high volume sampler usually consists of glass fibers and have a collection efficiency of more than 99%. For particles with 0.8 µ diameter with diameters exceeding 100µ remain on the filter surface. Samples collected by filters are analyzed. \r\n The samples of ambient air were drawn during peak traffic hours on located side from the respirable zone. Height of 1.2 to 1.5 meter above ground. SPM was estimated gravimetrically high volume sampler. TSPM were calculated on the basis of 24 hourly average values of SPM obtained by the high volume sampler for the comparison sake.\r\nRESULT AND DISCUSSION\r\nFrom the above study it was observe that the data collected from various locations of Indore city and shows that there is numerous change in the concentration of Total Suspended Particulate Matter at various sites and found that during peak traffic hours the concentration is in higher side.\r\n\r\nIt was also observed that, the concentration of TSPM changes according to humidity, if humidity increases then TSPM decreases and if humidity decreases then TSPM increase In our study during peak traffic hours. The concentration of TSPM is higher in Vijay Nagar, Bhawar Kuan, Mhow Naka, White Church Circle, Rajwada, Regal Square, and Palasia Square. Out of which the highest concentration was observed in White Church Circle and it was also found that due to higher concentration of SPM in atmosphere it will affect plants \r\nand human beings, at peak traffic hours the of TSPM is more and due to inhalation of such pollutant from Atmosphere people suffer from many diseases like Asthma, Bronchitis. Itching, allergy etc. and the plants which are present near road side they will suffer badly there growth affected due to deposition of SPM on plants leaves the chlorophyll contain get reduces and the soil also gets contaminated. Hence from the above it is clear that if the concentration of TSPM is more than pollution will be more.\r\n','Atul Thakkar (2013). Ambient Air Pollution Monitoring In Urban Area of Indore City with Special Reference to Total Suspended Particulate Matter.Biological Forum – An International Journal 5(2): 126-128.'),(4522,'122','Studies on Zinc sulphate induced alternation in Hepatosomatic index and Renalsomatic index in the freshwater fish Channa orientalis (Sch.)','A. P. Charjan and K.M. Kulkarni','23 A. P. CHARJAN AND K.M. KULKARNI.pdf','',1,'The fresh water fish Channa orientalis when exposed to zinc sulphate concentration shows behavioral changes with histopathological alternations in detoxifying organs. Treatment of the fish Channa orientalis with the sublethal concentration of zinc suplhate resulted in statistically significant reduction in HSI in all three experimental groups. Trunk kidneys of the fish exposed to sublethal concentration of zinc sulphate resulted in statistically significant increase in RSI in all three groups of experimental fishes. These changes were time dependent','Toxicity, Channa orientalis, Zinc Sulphate, HIS, RSI.','In conclusion, the present study proved that the heavy metal salts i.e. Zinc sulphate causes the alternations in Hepato-somatic and Renal-somatic indices of detoxifying organs i.e. Liver and Kidney of fish Channa orientalis and these effects were time dependent. ','Heavy metal contamination of aquatic ecosystem has long been recognized as a serious problem. Heavy metal contamination may have devasting effect on ecological balance of recipient environment and diversity of aquatic organism (Forambi et. al., 2007). These heavy metal pollution posses a great threat to fishes. When fishes are exposed to great elevate level of metal in polluted aquatic ecosystem, they tends to take these metals up from their direct environment (Charjan 1997; Hoo et. al., 2004). The fish constitutes a valuable commodity from the stand point of human consumption. So the heavy metal contamination of fresh bodies and aquatic biota becoming a serious concern from human health point of view. Heavy metal pollution of aquatic ecosystem poses a serious environmental hazard because of their persistence and toxicity. These heavy metals are available in the water and are further added into aquatic ecosystem as a result of direct input of atmospheric deposition, leaching of mineral and soil erosion due to rain water which causes the hazardous effects on aquatic biota specially fishes (Mulley et. al, 1996). These heavy metal toxicants are accumulated in the fish through general body surface which affect severally their life support system at molecular biochemical levels. Once these toxic substance enters into body, they damage and weaken the mechanism concerned leading to physiological, pathological and biochemical disorders (Arasta et.al. 1999). Most trace metals are important for the customary functioning of the physiological processes in fish. Abnormal high concentration of metals can, however cause cellular and histological changes. Exposure of fish to Zinc can result in damage of organs and various behavioral, physiological, biochemical \r\n\r\n\r\nchanges (Heath, 1995) with alternation in Hepatosomatic and Renalsomatic indices. Although Zinc is an essential element for living organisms, its presence in fresh water in higher concentration has long been known to have toxic effect of varying intensities. \r\nHence the present study was aimed to investigate the toxic effect of zinc sulphate on hepatosomatic and renalsomatic indices of detoxifying organs of fresh water fish Channa orientalis at laboratory condition.\r\nMATERIALS AND METHODS\r\nThe freshwater fish Channa orientalis were obtained from local sources. They were treated with 0.5 % KMnO4 for five minutes for dermal disinfection. Then they were acclimatized for period of fortnight to laboratory condition and were feed on small pieces of earthworm. The fishes were of 12-14 Cm in length with weighing 18-30 g were selected for the experiment. The physicochemical parameter of the aged tap water was determined periodically as per standard methods (APHA 1998). The Zinc sulphate (ZnSO4.7H2O) was selected as a heavy metal toxicant for the experiment. \r\nThe fishes are exposed to different concentration of zinc sulphate for 96 hours. The acclimatized 10 fishes were transferred to glass aquaria (60 × 30 × 30 cm) containing 25 liters of toxicant treated water. The fish were fed (25 mg / earthworm / gm fish / day) once in a day. Observations were made for 24 hours, from which the different concentrations were selected for the full scale experiment; behavioral changes in the fishes were observed and recorded. The 96h LC50 of zinc sulphate for the Channa orientalis was found to be 4.72 mg/l. 5 fish in each group were tested for histopathological studies of the fish liver. Student ‘t’ test was performed on the data of HSI and RSI as given by Fisher (1950).\r\nCalculation of HSI and RSI \r\nHepatosomatic Index (HSI): \r\nThe Hepato-Somatic Index was determined (Htun-hun, 1978) as: \r\nHSI = (Liver weight)/(body weight)x 100\r\nRenalsomatic Index (HSI): \r\nThe Renal-Somatic Index was determined (Htun-hun, 1978) as: \r\nRSI =(Kidney weight)/(body weight) x 100\r\nRESULTS AND DISCUSSION \r\nDuring the course of experiments no mortality were recorded in control and experimental fishes exposed to sub lethal concentration of zinc sulphate. Certain changes were observed in the coloration, feeding behavior and activeness of the fishes. \r\nBoth the types of fishes initially became more active but later their activity ceases. The fish\'s coloration fades a little, fluctuating responses were observed in feeding behavior. Table 2 shows the Hepato-somatic and Renal-somatic indices recorded from control and exposing Channa orientalis to sub lethal concentration of zinc sulphate for 10 days, 20 days and 30 days. The following results were obtained.\r\n1. Effect of sublethal concentration of ZnSO4 on Hepatosomatic index (HSI): \r\nIn fishes the liver is primary detoxifying organ which determine its hepatosomatic index (HSI). In the present investigation there was a continuous reduction in HSI upto thirty days of exposure to zinc sulphate. Treatment of the fish Channa orientalis with the sublethal concentration of zinc suplhate resulted in statistically significant reduction in HSI in all three experimental groups.\r\nAfter 10 days and 20 days the HSI was significant at P < 0.05 while after 30 days it was significant at P < 0.01 (Table 2). Sindhe and Kulkarni (2004) also reported decreased HSI in the fish Notopterus notopterus under chronic exposure of various heavy metal salts for 12 months. \r\nThe decreased HSI was also reported by Joshi (2011) and and Shelkar et al., (2013) in the fish Clarias batrachus under exposure of zinc sulphate for 30 as well also by Kingdom and Allison (2011) Hepatosomatic Indicies of Pellonula leonensis in different season.\r\n2. Effect of sublethal concentration of ZnSO4 on Renal-somatic index (RSI) \r\nTrunk kidney of the fish acts as the secondary detoxifying organ due to its excretory nature. In the present investigation the renal somatic index (RSI) is remarkably increased after exposure to zinc sulphate for thirty day. Trunk kidneys of the fish exposed to sublethal concentration of zinc sulphate resulted in statistically significant increase in RSI in all three experimental fishes which was significant at P < 0.05 (Table 2). The increased RSI in present investigation is due to accumulation of heavy metal salts and the unexcreted products due to impairments in excretory function (Das et.al., 1988). Joshi (2011) and Shelkar et al., (2013), (Charjan, 2013). were also reported increased RSI in the fish Clarias batrachus under exposure of zinc sulphate for 30 days.\r\n','A. P. Charjan and K.M. Kulkarni (2013). Studies on Zinc sulphate induced alternation in Hepatosomatic index and Renalsomatic index in the freshwater fish Channa orientalis (Sch.).Biological Forum – An International Journal 5(2): 129-131.'),(4523,'124','Studies on Intensity of Cestodes Parasite Infecting Monopterus cuchia in Cachar District, Assam','Biplab Kumar Das, Sulata Kar and Devashish Kar','14 BK DAS.pdf','',1,'Cestode parasites are generally found in almost all freshwater fishes. In this study thirty specimens of Monopterus cuchia were examined for parasitic cestode fauna and out of this fourteen specimens were found to be infected with cestodes. All cestode infection observed and recorded in the present study were restricted to the intestine of the fish. The female specimens show higher prevalence of about 75% than the male specimens of only 14:3. The intensity of infection in male is 3.5 and that of female is 1.75. The fish specimen with intermediate weight group shows highest (66.7%) prevalence of infestation. However, further study is still required to reveal many enclosed parasitic infection of fishes and its causation, particularly in this region with high diversity of fishes.','Cestode, Intestine, Monopetrus cuchia, North – East, Lactophenol','Cestode parasites are generally found in almost all freshwater fishes. In this study thirty specimens of Monopterus cuchia were examined for parasitic cestode fauna and out of this fourteen specimens were found to be infected with cestodes. All cestode infection observed and recorded in the present study were restricted to the intestine of the fish. The female specimens show higher prevalence of about 75% than the male specimens of only 14:3. The intensity of infection in male is 3.5 and that of female is 1.75. The fish specimen with intermediate weight group shows highest (66.7%) prevalence of infestation. However, further study is still required to reveal many enclosed parasitic infection of fishes and its causation, particularly in this region with high diversity of fishes.','One of the freshwater fishes of North – East India, also found in some wetlands of Barak Valley, is Monopetrus cuchia, commonly known as Gangetic mud-eel, is a mud dwelling fish with snake like appearance and smooth, slimy skin. M. cuchia belongs to the family Synbranchidae and order Synbranchifiormes. It is an indigenous fish species of N.E. India and locally known as ‘kuchia’. Rivers, ponds, beels and other fresh water bodies are the natural habitat of this eel. The natural population of M. cuchia has dwindled to a considerable extent mainly due to parasitic infection. Parasites are small players with crucial role in ecological system. Parasites are metabolically dependent on their hosts mainly for their nutritional requirements. However, it is an established fact that many species of parasites provoke pronounced or subtle effects on hosts affecting their behaviors, growth, fecundity and mortality.\r\n\r\nMoreover, parasites may also regulate host population dynamics and influence community structure. Among fresh water fishes, there are 1211 species of different parasites representing 5 phyla and 11 classes of invertebrates (Baylis, 1934). Parasitic diseases, either alone or in conjugation with other environmental stresses, may influence length, weight or reproduction of the host. The major parasitic groups found in freshwater fishes are Cestode parasites. Cestode infections in fishes are major parasitic disease in India. Cestodes damage health of fish by inducing variable intensity of infection depending upon the quality of environmental conditions. Four major classes parasites are found in fresh water fishes viz, trematodes, cestodes, acanthocephalans and nematodes. Among all this four major classes, cestodes are well known to produce certain adverse effects on their piscine hosts. \r\nThese include mechanical blockage at the gut lumen and in the physiological state of the host thereby predisposing it to other infections. Many Cestode parasites study on freshwater fishes of Northeast India reveals that most freshwater fishes of this area mainly infected by cestodes. Other classes of Cestode parasites are also able to cause dreadful infection to the fishes, sometimes causing fatal. Chubb (1980. 1982) illustrated that the most meaningful comparison of data for incidence and intensity of occurrence will be with the length of the fishes. The influence of parasitic infection in relation to the length of fish has been described by many workers Baylis (1947), Firadaus (1988), Hiware (2010). Cestode parasitic infection of fishes from Okhuaihe river, Nigeria was studied by Kar (2007, 2010) made detailed study of the limnology and ichthyofauna of water bodies of North East India including diseases in fishes. Shomorendra et. al. (2007) studied the effect of length of fish on the occurrence of Cestode parasites. Ratnabir et. al. (2010) studied on the Cestode parasites in relation to length of three freshwater fishes of Dolu Lake of Silchar, Assam, India. Binky, (2010, 2011) worked on the Cestode parasites and intensity of parasitization among fishes of Karbhala wetland in Cachar District of Assam.\r\nMATERIAL AND METHODS\r\nThe fishes were different sizes were routinely collected alive and carried in containers to the laboratory containing water of the same locality. The identification of each fish was done following Jayaram (2010). The external and internal organs were thoroughly examined for the Cestode parasites. After being fully relaxed the collected Cestode were fixed and stored in 70% alcohol. To facilitate identification of the worms they were cleared in Lactophenol and mounted in Glycerin gelly.\r\nRESULTS AND DISCUSSION \r\nThirty specimens of Monopterus cuchia were examined for parasitic helminth fauna. All helminth infection observed and recorded were restricted to the intestine of the fish. Fourteen specimens were found to be infected with cestodes. Total of 128 cestodes were found in the host fishes, Helminth parasites infection in M. cuchia with relation to length, weight and sex of the host are recorded in Table I.\r\nMonopterus cuchia. A total of fourteen male specimens were examined and two were infected with seven helminthic parasites which shows prevalence (%) of 14.3, with abundance of 0.5 and intensity of infection is 3.5. In case of female, sixteen host specimens were examined among them twelve were found infected with twenty-one helminthic parasites, which shows an prevalence (%) of 75 of the total sample, having abundance of 1.31 and intensity of infection is 1.75. \r\nThe parasite prevalence, abundance and intensity depend on many factors like parasite its life cycle, host and its feeding habits and the physical factors of water body where the fish inhabit. It also depends upon the presence of intermediate host such as piscivorous birds mainly for the spread of cestodes infection. The hygienic conditions are also very important for the healthy environment where fish are raised. The birds living in the vicinity of the water bodies eating fishes acts as intermediate host for internal parasites particularly cestodes. When life cycle of any parasite is completed its prevalence and intensity increases significantly in the piscine host. \r\n','Biplab Kumar Das, Sulata Kar and Devashish Kar (2012). Studies on Intensity of Cestodes Parasite Infecting Monopterus cuchia in Cachar District, Assam. Biological Forum – An International Journal 4(2): 71-74 '),(4524,'120','Sixteen New Records of Soil Oribatid Mites (Acari: Oribatida) from Maharashtra, India','Shelley Acharya and Paramita Basu','1 DR SHELLY ACHARYA.pdf','',1,'The present work is based on a collection of soil oribatid mites from some selected habitat of six districts (Akola, Jalgaon, Pune, Nashik, Ahmednagar, Aurangabad) of four Region like Uttar Maharashtra, Western Maharashtra, Marathwada and Amravati region of the Maharashtra state.16 species under 14 genera belonging to 12 families of soil oribatid mites were found to be new records to the state from the present investigation with 4 new records to India.','Oribatid mites, Maharashtra, Arthropodan groups, oribatid fauna, New records','The present work is based on a collection of soil oribatid mites from some selected habitat of six districts (Akola, Jalgaon, Pune, Nashik, Ahmednagar, Aurangabad) of four Region like Uttar Maharashtra, Western Maharashtra, Marathwada and Amravati region of the Maharashtra state.16 species under 14 genera belonging to 12 families of soil oribatid mites were found to be new records to the state from the present investigation with 4 new records to India.','The Oribatid mites are one of the richest soil Arthropodan groups both as to the number of species and individuals (Balogh, 1972). Although not the equal of insects, mites do rank high in species richness .But the mites are very poorly represented in ecological, ethological and evolutionary studies (Walter and Proctor,1999). \r\nWhen compared the state Maharashtra is so far known to comprise only 4 Oribatid species belonging to 3 genera and 2 families as against 2186 species belonging to 643 genera & 207 families reported from India. Narsapur (1983) made the first record of Oribatid mite from Maharashtra from the soils of the state. Later Sanyal (1984) studied soil mites of Maharashtra and published one paper containing description of two new species. No work has been done on soil oribatid mites after that. \r\nBeing a part of the sectional survey programme we conducted our survey tour in four Region like Uttar Maharashtra, Western Maharashtra, Marathwada and \r\nAmravati region of the Maharashtra state and the present paper is based on a Collection of soil oribatid mites from the these regions of the state Maharashtra. An account of 16species under 14 genera belonging to 12 families is provided here with the details of collection. The oribatid fauna of this region is practically unexplored and the present account will form a basis for future research on this group from the area. As this region is totally untouched all the species found are supposed to be new records from the state among which 4 are new records to India.\r\nMATERIALS AND METHODS\r\nFor taxonomic studies of oribatid mites, litter, soil and humus samples from all possible habitats from the six (Akola, Jalgaon, Pune, Nashik, Ahmednagar, Aurangabad) districts of Maharashtra were collected. The samples collected by shovel from upper 10 cm soil profile were kept in polythene bags. The samples were extracted by using modified Tullgren funnels and extracted mite specimens were collected in glass tubes containing 70% alcohol.\r\nThe body of most of the oribatid mite is heavily sclerotized and opaque. The extracted material were made ready for taxonomic study following the usual procedure of keeping the specimen in solution of 90% alcohol and lactic acid (v/v) as advocated by Balogh (1965). For microscopic observations, Balogh’s (1965) method of temporary mounting in lactic acid was followed. \r\nAfter necessary microscopic observations the specimen was transferred in small glass vials containing 90% alcohol. The vials were then properly labeled and stored. The specimens were studied under Nikon Eclipse, 50i microscope. All the studied specimens are deposited under National Zoological Collection of Zoological Survey of India, HQ, Kolkata.\r\nStudy Area\r\nRESULTS\r\nSpecies newly recorded from Maharashtra:\r\n1. Hoplophthiracarus costai MacFarlane & Sheals\r\n2. Notophthiracarus (Calyptophthiracarus) pavidus pavidus (Berlese)\r\n3. Archegozetes longisetosus Aoki\r\n4. Trimalaconothrus platyrhinus Hammer\r\n5. Amerioppia sp.\r\n6. Lasiobelba remota Aoki\r\n7. Kokoppia sp.\r\n8. Dolicheremaeus papuensis Aoki\r\n9. Hypozetes laysanensis Aoki\r\n10. Chaunoproctus minor (Balogh)\r\n11. Scheloribates albialatus Hammer\r\n12. Scheloribates giganteus Hammer\r\n13. Peloribates longisetosus (Willman)\r\n14. Unguizetes clavatus Aoki\r\n15. Plesiodamaeus glaber Mihelcic\r\n16. Litholestes altitudinus Grandjean\r\nSystematic Account:\r\n1. Family: PHTHIRACARIDAE\r\n1. Genus: Hoplophthiracarus Jacot, 1933\r\n1933. Hoplophthiracarus Jacot, Journ. El. Mitch. Sci. Soc., 48:239.\r\n1. Hoplophthiracarus costai MacFarlane & Sheals, 1965\r\n1965. Hoplophthiracarus costai MacFarlane & Sheals, Acarologia, 7(3):577-583.\r\nMaterial Examined: 1M, Ellora Cave No. 34, Aurangabad, Maharashtra, 20.032349 & 75.175605, 15.ix.2012, from soil, coll. A. Chatterjee, 4849/17/ZSIHQ; \r\nDistribution: India: Uttar Pradesh.\r\nRemarks: This species is recorded here for the first time from Maharashtra.\r\n2. Notophthiracarus (Calyptophthiracarus) pavidus pavidus (Berlese, 1913) \r\n(=Hoplophthiracarus cretensis Mahunka, 1979)\r\n1913. Notophthiracarus (Calyptophthiracarus) pavidus pavidus Berlese,. Redia. 9: 77-111.\r\n1979. Hoplophthiracarus cretensis Mahunka, Revue Suisse Zool., 86 (2): 558.\r\nMaterial Examined: 1M, Ajanta Cave No. 16, Aurangabad, Maharashtra\r\n75.7426, 14.ix.2012, from soil, coll. A. Chatterjee, 4850/17/ZSIHQ; \r\nRemarks: This species is recorded here for the first time from India.\r\n2. Family: LOHMANIIDAE\r\n2. Genus: Javacarus Balogh 1961\r\n1961. Javacarus Balogh, Acta Zool. Acad. Sci. Hung., 7 (1 & 2): 31.\r\n3. Javacarus kuehnelti Balogh\r\n1961. Javacarus Balogh, Acta Zool. Acad. Sci. Hung., 7(1 & 2): 31. \r\nMaterial Examined: 1M, Fulambri Vill., Aurangabad, Maharashtra, 20.088181 & 75.419357, 13.ix.2012, from Corn field soil, coll. A. Chatterjee, 4852/17/ZSIHQ; 1M, Daulatabad Fort, Aurangabad, Maharashtra, 19.9417 & 75.21217, 16.ix.2012, soil from Fort hill top, coll. A. Chatterjee, 4851/17/ZSIHQ.\r\nDistribution: India: West Bengal (Birbhum), Maharashtra, Tripura. \r\n3. Family MALACONOTHRIDAE \r\n3. Genus: Trimalaconothrus (Trimalaconothrus) Berlese\r\n1916. Trimalaconothrus (Trimalaconothrus) Berlese, Redia, 12: 289-338.\r\n4. Trimalaconothrus platyrhinus Hammer, 1962\r\n1962. Trimalaconothrus platyrhinus Hammer, Biol. Skr. Dan.Vid. Selsk., 13: 1-17.\r\nMaterial examined: 1M, Sinhagad Fort, Pune, Maharashtra, 18.366304 & 73.755876, 10.xii.13, from soil, coll. D.N Adagale, 4957/17/ ZSIHQ.\r\nDistribution: India: West Bengal. \r\nRemarks: This species is a new record from Maharashtra.\r\n. Family: TRHYPOCHTHONIDAE\r\n4. Genus: Archegozetes Grandjean, 1931\r\n1931. Archegozetes Grandjean, Bull. Mus. Hist. Nat. Paris, 3 (2): 144.\r\n5. Archegozetes longisetosus Aoki, 1965\r\n1965. Archegozetes longisetosus Aoki, Nat. Life Southeast Asia, 4: 147.\r\nMaterial Examined: 1M, Gaigaon vill., Akola, Maharashtra, 20.725908 & 76.891552, 04.ix.2012, from Bean field soil, coll. S. Acharya, 4947/17/ ZSIHQ.\r\nDistribution: India: West Bengal, Assam, Kerala, Tripura, Lakshadweep. \r\nRemarks: This species first time recorded from Maharashtra.\r\n5. Family: OPPIIDAE\r\n5. Genus: Amerioppia Hammer 1961\r\n1961. Amerioppia Hammer, Biol. Skr., 13(1): 55. \r\n6. Amerioppia sp.\r\nMaterial Examined: 1M, Trimbakeshwar, Nashik, Maharashtra, 19.929721 & 73.527921, 09.ix.2012, soil from Methi field, coll. S. Acharya, 4802/17 / ZSIHQ; 3M, Apangaon Vill., Ahmednagar, Maharashtra, 19.02635 & 74.71469, 11.09.2012, soil from Brinjal Field, coll. A. Chatterjee, 4803/17/ZSIHQ; 5M, Ajanta Cave No. 16, Aurangabad, Maharashtra, 20.52975 & 75.7426, 14.ix.2012, soil from Ornamental Plant, coll. A. Chatterjee, 4804/17 /ZSIHQ.\r\nRemarks: This genus is recorded for the first time from Maharashtra.\r\n6. Genus: Lasiobelba Aoki, 1965\r\n1965. Lasiobelba Aoki, Bull. Bio. Geo. Sco. Jap., 21(1): 5.\r\n7. Lasiobelba remota Aoki, 1959\r\n1959. Lasiobelba remota Aoki, Bull. Biogeogr. soc. Japan, 21:1-22.\r\nMaterial Examined: 1M, Ellora Cave No. 34, Aurangabad, Maharashtra, 20.032349 & 75.175605, 15.ix.2012, soil from Ornamental Plant, coll. A. Chatterjee, 4853/17/ZSIHQ; 1M, Shinde Vill., Nashik, Maharashtra, 19.91194 & 73.902179, 9.ix.2012, from Chilli field soil, coll. . S. Acharya, 4854 /17/ZSIHQ; 13 M, Sinnor Vill., Nashik, Maharashtra, 19.85 & 74, 9.ix.2012, from Chilli field soil, coll. . S. Acharya, 4855/17/ZSIHQ; 16M, Sillod Vill., Aurangabad , Maharashtra, 19.90652 & 75.350115, 13.ix.2012, from Corn field soil, coll. A. Chatterjee, 4856/17/ZSIHQ; 2M, Panwari Vill., Manmad, Maharashtra, 20.2499 & 74.43586, 20.ix.2012, from Soil, coll. A. Chatterjee, 4857/17/ZSIHQ; 1M, Hibargaon Vill., Sangamner Khurd, Ahmednagar, Maharashtra, 19.09521 & 74.74959, 8.ix.2012, soil from Pomegrante garden, coll. S. Acharya, 4858/17/ZSIHQ.\r\nRemarks: This species is first time recorded from India.\r\n7. Genus: Kokoppia Balogh, 1983\r\n1983. Kokoppia Balogh, Acta Zool. Acad. Sci. Hung., 29(4): 283-301.\r\n\r\n8. Kokoppia sp.\r\nMaterial Examined: 24M, Sinhagad Fort, Pune, Maharashtra, 18.366304 & 73.755876, 10.xii.13, from soil, coll. D.N Adagale, 4959/17/ZSIHQ.\r\nRemarks: This genus is recorded for the first time from Maharashtra.\r\n6. Family: OTOCEPHEIDAE\r\n8. Genus: Dolicheremaeus Jacot, 1938\r\n1938. Dolicheremaeus Jacot, Florida Ent., 21(4):51.\r\n9. Dolicheremaeus papuensis Aoki, 1967\r\n1967. Dolicheremaeus papuensis Aoki, Bull. Nat. Sci. Mus. Tokyo 10(3): 308.\r\nMaterial Examined: 24M, Sinhagad Fort, Pune, Maharashtra, 18.366304 & 73.755876, 10.xii.13, from soil, coll. D. N Adagale, 4956/17/ ZSIHQ. \r\nDistribution: India: Uttarakhand. \r\nRemarks: This species is recorded for the first time from Maharashtra.\r\n7. Family: AUSTRACHIPTERIIDAE\r\n9. Genus: Hypozetes Balogh, 1959\r\n1959. Hypozetes Balogh, Acta. Zool. Hung., 5: 241-253\r\n10. Hypozetes laysanensis Aoki, 1964\r\n1964. Hypozetes laysanensis Aoki, Pacific Insects, 7: 301-308.\r\nMaterial Examined: 24M, Sinhagad Fort, Pune, Maharashtra 18.366304 & 73.755876, 10.xii.13, from soil, coll. D.N Adagale, 4949/17/ ZSIHQ.\r\nDistribution: India: West Bengal, Tripura, Mizoram.\r\nRemarks: This species is recorded for the first time from Maharashtra\r\n8. Family: CHAUNOPROCTIDAE\r\n10. Genus: Chaunoproctus Pearce\r\n1906. Chaunoproctus Pearce, Journ. Roy.Micr.Soc.,271.\r\n11. Chaunoproctus minor (Balogh)\r\n1958. Caloppia minor Balogh, Rev.Zool.Bot.Afr., 58(1-4):11.\r\nMaterial Examined: 24M, Sinhagad Fort, Pune, Maharashtra, 18.366304 & 73.755876, 10.xii.13, from soil, coll. D.N Adagale, 4958/17/ZSIHQ.\r\nDistribution: India: West Bengal, Kerala.\r\nRemarks: This species is recorded for the first time from Maharashtra\r\n9. Family: SCHELORIBATIDAE Jacot, 1935 \r\n11. Genus: Scheloribates Berlese, 1908\r\n1908. Scheloribates Berlese, Redia, 5:2\r\n12. Scheloribates albialatus Hammer, 1961\r\n1961. Scheloribate salbialatus Hammer, Biol. Skr. Dan. Vid. Selsk., 13(1): 94. \r\nMaterial Examined: 1F, Hadapsar, Panmala, Pune, Maharashtra, 18.49995 & 73.84007, 7.ix.2012, from soil, coll. S. Acharya, 4894/17/ZSIHQ; 1M, Hibargaon Vill., Sangamner Khurd, Ahmednagar, Maharashtra, 19.09521 & 74.74959, 8.ix.2014, soil from Pomegrante garden, coll. A. Chatterjee, 4895/17/ZSIHQ; 2M, Fulambri Vill., Aurangabad, Maharashtra, 20.08818 & 75.41936, 13.ix.2012, from Corn field soil, coll. A. Chatterjee, 4896/17/ZSIHQ; 2M, Ajanta Cave No. 16, Aurangabad, Maharashtra, 20.52975 & 75.7426, 14.ix.2012, from Soil, coll. A. Chatterjee, 4897/17/ZSIHQ; 3M, Shinde Vill., Nashik, Maharashtra, 19.91194 & 73.90218, 9.ix.2015, from Cow dung, coll. S. Acharya, 4898/17/ZSIHQ. \r\nDistribution: India: Maharashtra, West Bengal. \r\nRemarks: This species is recorded here for the first time from Maharashtra.\r\n13. Scheloribates giganteus Hammer\r\n1961. Scheloribates giganteus Hammer, Biol. Skr. Dan. Vid. Selsk., 13(1): 92. \r\nMaterial Examined: 1M, Daulatabad Fort, Aurangabad , Maharashtra, 19.9417 & 75.21217, 16.ix.2012, soil from Fort hill top, coll. A. Chatterjee, 4918/17/ZSIHQ; 1M, Hadapsar, Panmala, Pune, Maharashtra, 18.49995 & 73.84007, 7.ix.2012, soil from Paddy field, coll. S. Acharya, 4919/17/ZSIHQ; 1M, Kumbhari Vill., Akola, Maharashtra, 20.69624 & 77.05895, 4.ix.2012, from cow dung, coll. S. Acharya, 4920/17/ZSIHQ; 1M, Shinde Vill., Nashik, Maharashtra, 19.91194 & 73.90218, 9.ix.2012, soil from Chilli field, coll. S. Acharya, 4921/17/ZSIHQ.\r\nRemarks: This species is recorded here for the first time from India.\r\n10. Family: HAPLOZETIDAE \r\n12. Genus: Peloribates Berlese \r\n1908. Peloribates Berlese, Redia, 5:3 \r\n14. Peloribates longisetosus (Willman, 1930) \r\n1930. Peloribates longisetosus (Willman), Zool. Anz. Leipzig, 88(9-10): 239-246.\r\nMaterial Examined: 7M, Hibargaon Vill., Sangamner Khurd, Ahmednagar, Maharashtra, 19.09521 & 74.74959, 8.ix.2012, soil from Pomegrante garden, coll. S. Acharya, 4882/17/ ZSIHQ; 1M, Shinde Vill., Nashik, Maharashtra, 19.91194 & 73.90218, 9.ix.2012, soil from Chilli field soil, coll. S. Acharya, 4883/17/ZSIHQ.\r\nDistribution: India: Himachal Pradesh, Uttar Pradesh. \r\nRemarks: This species is recorded here for the first time from Maharashtra\r\n11. Family: MOCHLOZETIDAE Grandjean, 1980\r\n13. Genus: Unguizetes Sellnick\r\n1925. Unguizetes Sellnick, Treubia, 6: 473.\r\n15. Unguizetes clavatus Aoki\r\n1967. Unguizetes clavatus Aoki, Nat. Life Southeast Asia, 5: 195.\r\nMaterial Examined: 1M, Deoli Vill., Aurangabad, Maharashtra, 19.84695 & 75.3527, 17.ix.2012, soil from Corn field,coll. A. Chatterjee, 4945/17/ZSIHQ; 1M, Trimbakeshwar, Nashik, Maharashtra, 19.92972 & 73.52792, 09.ix.2012, soil from Methi field, coll. S. Acharya, 4946/17/ZSIHQ.\r\nDistribution: India: Uttar Pradesh, West Bengal.\r\nRemarks: This species is recorded here for the first time from Maharashtra\r\n12. Family: ZETORCHESTIDAE\r\n14. Genus: Litholestes Grandjean, 1951\r\n1951. Litholestes Grandjean, Mémoires Du Muséum, Zoologie, 4(1): 20.\r\n16. Litholestes altitudinis Grandjean, 1951\r\n1951. Litholestes altitudinis Grandjean, Mémoires Du Muséum, Zoologie, 4(1): 21\r\nMaterial Examined: 24M, Sinhagad Fort, Pune, Maharashtra, 18.366304 & 73.755876, 10.xii.13 from soil, coll. D.N Adagale, 4954/17/ZSIHQ.\r\nRemarks: This species is recorded here for the first time from India.\r\n','Shelley Acharya and Paramita Basu (2014) Sixteen New Records of Soil Oribatid Mites (Acari: Oribatida) from Maharashtra, India.Biological Forum – An International Journal 6(2): 1-6.'),(4525,'120','Butterfly Fauna (Order: Lepidoptera) in Five Major Tea Gardens of Sivasagar District, Assam, India','Atanu Bora and L.R. Meitei','2 ATANU BORA.pdf','',1,'The present paper is based on observations and sighting records of butterfly fauna from March 2012 to February 2013 in five major Tea Gardens, Sivasagar District of Assam, India. The district has 119 tea estates which covers an area of 88, 008 hectares of land. The beautiful tea gardens provide a very attractive landscape to the district. Based on the study of butterfly diversity in the study area, a checklist has been prepared. A total of 104 butterfly species belonging to 5 families of order Lepidoptera were recorded during the study period. The family Nymphalidae, represented by 46 species was the most dominant followed by Lycaenidae (23 species), Hesperiidae (13 species), Pieridae (13 species) and Papilionidae (9 species) being the least. From the conservation point of view, the study areas are undisturbed and rich in butterfly fauna. ','Tea gardens, Sivasagar District, Assam, India, butterfly species.','The present paper is based on observations and sighting records of butterfly fauna from March 2012 to February 2013 in five major Tea Gardens, Sivasagar District of Assam, India. The district has 119 tea estates which covers an area of 88, 008 hectares of land. The beautiful tea gardens provide a very attractive landscape to the district. Based on the study of butterfly diversity in the study area, a checklist has been prepared. A total of 104 butterfly species belonging to 5 families of order Lepidoptera were recorded during the study period. The family Nymphalidae, represented by 46 species was the most dominant followed by Lycaenidae (23 species), Hesperiidae (13 species), Pieridae (13 species) and Papilionidae (9 species) being the least. From the conservation point of view, the study areas are undisturbed and rich in butterfly fauna. ','Geographically, the state of Assam is situated between 24°10’ to 27°58’ N latitude and 89°49’ to 97°26’ E longitude. Sharing its borders with Arunachal Pradesh on the north; Nagaland, Manipur and Arunachal Pradesh on the east; Meghalaya, Mizoram and Tripura on the south and Meghalaya on the west, Assam is located on the north-eastern part of the Indian sub-continent. The state is connected with the rest of the Indian Union by a narrow corridor in West Bengal that runs for 56 Kms. below the foothills of Bhutan and Sikkim. The prime geographical characters that form the topographical features of Assam are the Barak Valley and the River of Brahmaputra. \r\nThe state occupies a total area of about 78,523 sq km. placed on the foothills of the majestic Himalaya, Assam Forest covers a major part of the total land available in the state. Going by a survey conducted by the Forest Department of Assam Government, in the year 2003, the state possessed a total of 26, 781.91 sq km forest land. Bamboo and timber are the two prime forest products of Assam. The specialty of Assam Climate lies in its highest levels of humidity. Assam is known to have maximum amount of rainfall. The temperatures never go beyond the standard 35° to 38°C. While, the hilly regions of Assam experience a suitable sub-alpine climatic condition, the plain lands of the state go through excessive humid weather. Primarily, the climate of Assam is categorized under two prime heads - rainy season and winter months. \r\nThe rainy season starts from June while the winter months begin with the onset of October. The minimum temperature which is found in the coldest of months in Assam ranges from 6 to 8°C.\r\nAssam is the world\'s largest tea growing region and not only famous for its quality of tea as well as the natural beauty of the tea plantation area. Beautiful tea estates of Assam cover about 2, 16, 200 hectares of land comprises of more than 100 tea estates. Enormously found mountain region, its greenery and pleasant climate make this location popular not only for its tea, but also for being a popular spot for enjoying eco-vacations. The both sides of the famous river, Brahmaputra, constitute the world\'s largest Tea growing area. The tea plants are grown in the lowlands of Assam, unlike Darjiling and Nilgiris, which are grown in the highlands. The Assam tea bush grows in a lowland region, in the valley of the Brahmaputra River, an area of clay soil rich in the nutrients of the floodplain. The climate varies between a cool, and winter and hot, humid rainy seasons- the conditions ideal for growing tea. Because of its lengthy growing seasons and generous rainfall of about 250-300 mm (during the monsoon season), Assam is one of the most prolific tea-producing region in the world. This region of India is so famous for its tea plantation that Assam tourism has organized the Assam Tea festival in the month of November every year that makes a totally new experience to enjoy this place.\r\nMATERIAL AND METHODS\r\nStudy Area. The present study was conducted to study the diversity of butterfly fauna in five major tea gardens of Sivasager district, Assam, India from March 2012 to February 2013. Sivasagar district is situated in the \r\nNorth-Eastern part of Assam between 94.25° to 95.25° N latitude and 26.45° to 27.15° E longitude. It is placed in 99 meters to 103 meters elevation range above sea level. \r\nThe district is surrounded by Lakhimpur and Dibrugarh in the north, Arunachal Pradesh and Dibrugarh in the east, Arunachal Pradesh and Nagaland in the south, Jorhat district of Assam in the west. The Naga Hills lie towards the south, while the Brahmaputra River is on the north. The district is located at Upper Brahmaputra Valley of Agro-climatic zone of the state and occupies a total geographical area of 2668 sq.km. The district is situated in the humid sub-tropical region and characterized by heavy rainfall and high relative humidity above 90%; high temperature up to 38°C is observed in the summer season and comparatively low temperature up to 7°C in winter. The soils of this zone is immature alluvial in char to mature ultisol in the piedmont high and hill areas. The vegetation is mostly tropical evergreen with trees like Hollong, Titachapa, Nahor, Mekai etc. dominating the forest canopy. \r\nSivasagar’s biggest contribution to the world is its tea plantation. There are 119 tea estates in the district which covers an area of 88, 008 hectares. Besides these tea estates, 80 registered small tea growers and 4, 004 small tea growers covers the 5356 hectares of land in this district. The district produces some of the finest and most expensive teas in the world. Tea gardens of the district not only produce economy but also it adds the scenic beauty. The beautiful tea gardens provide a very attractive landscape to the district. \r\nThe five major tea gardens of the district where the study was conducted are as follows –\r\nSector 1: Maskara Tea Estate, P.O. Rajmai: Total area under tea cover is 44.71 hectares.\r\nSector 2: Bezbaruah Tea Estate, P.O. Sapekhati: Total area under tea cover is 89.43 hectares.\r\nSector 3: Aideobari Tea Estate, P.O. Sonari: Total area under tea cover is 150.65 hectares.\r\nSector 4: Bemolapur Tea Estate, P.O. Borhat: Total area of the estate is 1214 hectares, out of which 527 hectares is under tea cover. \r\nSector 5: Behubor Tea Estate, P.O. Nazira: Total area under tea cover is 533.86 hectares.\r\nTaxonomic Study. Field notes, photographs (camera: Nikon d5100) and observations of butterflies were taken for the entire growing season during the day light hours. The population trends of butterflies were monitored for one year using transects counting method (Barhaum et al., 1980). Butterflies were netted only when necessary to prevent the possibility of handling effect (Morton, 1984). Species were noted along with the date, location of capture and any plant association. Other factors noted include the time of day using a twenty-four hour clock and the weather conditions. At each location the same route of inspection was followed each time to reduce the number of variables presents (Pyle, 1984) and to avoid any personal difference all the counts were made by the same person. \r\nAn effort has been made to use the latest nomenclature and common names as far as possible as per Evan (1932), D’ Abrera (1982-1986), Varshney (1990) and Kehimkar (2008). The relative abundance or say status of individual species is categorized within the tea gardens as “Very Rare” (VR) when recorded rarely; “Rare” (R) when recorded occasionally; “Uncommon” (UC) when recorded frequently; “Common” (C) when recorded regularly; “Very Common” (VC) when recorded regularly in large numbers\r\nRESULT AND DISCUSSION\r\nDuring the study, a total of 104 species belonging to 72 genera under 5 families were recorded from the selected five major tea garden areas (Table 1). The family Nymphalidae showed the maximum species richness, comprising of 27 genera and 46 species, followed by Lycaenidae (21 genera, 23 species), Hesperiidae (12 genera, 13 species), Pieridae (9 genera, 13 species) and Papilionidae (3 genera, 9 species) being the least (Fig. 2). Abundance showed that out of the 104 butterfly species recorded, 33 are uncommon, 39 are common, 11 are very common, 12 are rare and 9 are very rare to the study area. A total of 5696 individuals were recorded from the five tea gardens, of which the Sector 5 representing the Behubor Tea Estate contributing 1587 individuals was dominant while the Sector 1 representing the Maskara Tea Estate with 941 individuals was the least (Fig. 3). Eurema hecabe (Linn.) was the most dominant species of butterfly in terms of number of individuals (156) followed by Papilio polytes (Linn.) (150), Pieris canidia (Sparrman) (142), Catopsilia pomona (Fabricius) (141), Ypthima baldus (Fabricius) (138) and 6 other species in the study area (Table 1, *Marked Asterisks). Discophora timora (Westwood) and Mycalesis gotama (Moore) (3 individuals each) were the rarest species followed by Chliaria othona (Hewitson) (4), Polyura agraria (Swinhoe) (4) and 5 other species (Table 1, #Marked Asterisks). \r\nResults suggested that the family Nymaphalidae with 27 genera and 46 species was the most dominant in the study area. Members of the Nymphalidae were always dominant in the tropical region because most of the species are polyphagous in nature, consequently helping them to live in all the habitats. Additionally, many species of this family are strong, active fliers that might help them in searching for resources in large areas (Eswaran and Pramod 2005; Krishna Kumar et al. 2007). A high proportion of nymphalid species thus clearly indicates high host plant richness in the study areas.\r\n \r\nThe Government of India under Indian Wildlife (Protection) Act, 1972 provided protection to 452 species of butterfly in three Schedules (out of six) as in Schedule I, Part IV, 128 species of butterfly; in Schedule II, Part II, 30 species and in Schedule IV (Secs. 2, 8, 9, 11 and 61), 19 species listed (Anonymous, 2003b). A milestone of the study is the recording of the two species Castalius rosimon (Common Pierrot) and Pantoporia hordonia (Common Lascar) in the study area that are listed in the Indian Wildlife Protection Act, 1972 as under Schedule I and II (Anonymous, 2006). This two species were recorded in all the selected gardens with reasonable abundance indicating the superior quality habitat of the study areas. The Ministry of Environment and Forests, Government of India through various schemes and simple methods try to encouraged researchers and organization to develop and recreate habitats that might play a role in conserving butterfly fauna of India. These efforts were already become popular and successful in some states of India including Kerala, Tamil Nadu and Karnataka. Most tea gardens are governed by a strict administration that does not allow illegal anthropogenic activities inside the garden areas that fully supports the wildlife. From this study, it can be clearly suggested that tea gardens can be used as ideal habitats for conserving butterfly fauna by introducing appropriate, naturally occurring host plants. The photo gallery (Fig. 4.) provides the photographic proof of our study in the proposed study area.\r\n','Atanu Bora and L.R. Meitei (2014). Butterfly Fauna (Order: Lepidoptera) in Five Major Tea Gardens of Sivasagar District, Assam, India.'),(4526,'120','The first report of Enochrus nigropiceus Gunderson \r\n(Family: Hydrophilidae) from Loktak lake of Manipur\r\n','M. Bhubaneshwari Devi, O. Sandhyarani Devi and S. Dineshwar Singh','3 BHUBANESHWARI DEVI.pdf','',1,'A species Enochrus nigropiceus Gunderson, 1977 is recorded for the first time in Loktak Lake of Manipur, and also from India. Important morphological features are figured, including male genitalia (aedaegus). Further study may increase the number of species of these beetles from the Loktak lake of Manipur.','Coleoptera, Hydrophilidae, Enochrus, New records, Loktak Lake, Manipur, India','A species Enochrus nigropiceus Gunderson, 1977 is recorded for the first time in Loktak Lake of Manipur, and also from India. Important morphological features are figured, including male genitalia (aedaegus). Further study may increase the number of species of these beetles from the Loktak lake of Manipur.','The family Hydrophilidae is one of the large families of the order Coleoptera having 146 genera and about 3335 known species (Hansen, 1999; Short and Herbauer 2006; Short and Ficacek, 2011). Hydrophilidae are distributed throughout the world in wide variety of habitats. Sub family Hydrophilidae comprising more than 1600 described species are mostly aquatic. A total of 34 genera of aquatic Hydrophilidae are known from Oriental region. So far 17 genera and 45 species of Hydrophilidae have been recorded from India (Deepa Jaiswal, 2010). Hydrophilidae are usually found in most kind of stagnant water but commonly inhabits stream, river and lakes. The family also has terrestrial representative that inhibit mostly leaf litters and other kinds of decaying organic materials. Larvae are predaceous preying on various smaller invertebrates while adult are mostly saprophagus, feeding on different kinds of decaying organic matter.\r\nThe genus Enochrus Thomson, 1859 is a large genus of Hydrophilidae. At present it comprises 222 described species distributed worldwide (Short and Fikacek 2011). From India only two species viz: Enochrus esuriens, and Enochrus rubrocinctus has been reported earlier (Deepa Jaiswal, 2010). The genus Enochrus is separated from other genera of Hydrophilids by moderate body size 2.00 – 8.50mm, elytra with distinct sutural stria on posterior two third. Second segment of maxillary palps bowed outward, with apical two segments bowed inward. Enochrus nigropiceus is recorded here for the first time from the Loktak lake of Manipur, a part of the North Eastern India. \r\n\r\nMATERIALS AND METHODS\r\nSamples were collected from different sites of Loktak Lake of Manipur and specimens were studied in the Entomology Research Laboratory, P.G. Department of Zoology, Dhanamanjuri College of Science, Imphal. The materials examined for this study were collected by means of sieve, ladle and a net having meshes size of 1mm. The beetles were killed using 70% ethyl alcohol solution. Aedeagophores were dissected under a stereomicroscope and cleared in 10% KOH solution for 1-2 h. The photographs were taken using an Olympus type BX51 compound microscope and a Nikon type SMZ 1500 stereomicroscope. Three specimens were deposited in the Laboratory of Entomology, P.G. Department of Zoology, Dhanamanjuri College of Science, Imphal, Manipur. Two specimens were deposited in the Division of Entomology Museum, Indian Agricultural Research Institute (IARI), New Delhi, India.\r\nRESULT \r\nEnochrus interruptus Gunderson 1977\r\nEnochrus interruptus Gunderson 1977: 255-256.\r\n Phubala (Loktak Lake, Manipur) wetland, 2♂, 39 Km S. from Imphal, N 24° 27. 327´E 093°51. 295´, 763 m on 21.xi.13. M Bhubaneshwari, O.Sandhyarani and S.Dineshwar.\r\nLongum (Loktak Lake, Manipur), wetland, 1♂&1♀ 45 Kms S from Imphal, N 24°31. 011´E 093°49. 066´, 822 m on 7.ii.2014. M. Bhubaneshwari, O. Sandhyarani and S. Dineshwar.\r\nNgaikhong (Loktak Lake, Manipur), wetland, 1♀ 30 kms S from Imphal N 24o 29.221´E 093o48.571´, 800 m on 13.i.2014. M. Bhubaneshwari, O. Sandhyarani, S. Dineshwar\r\n\r\n\r\n \r\nDifferential diagnosis\r\nTotal length 5.90 – 5.95 mm. dorsally dark brown to black colouration, edges of pronotum, elytra paler, coarse punctuation and distinct genitalia serve to differentiate this species from all other known species from India. \r\nDescription\r\nColour, form and punctuation: Head, pronotum black with anterolateral margin of anterior margin and lateral margin of pronotum pale, maxillary palp yellow, ventral face of head dark brown with mentum,stipes and cardo distinctly paler; ventral face of thorax dark brown, abdominal ventrites dark brown, femora,tibia dark brown with tarsi paler, puncture on head, pronotum moderately coarse and denser than elytra. \r\nDiagnosis\r\n Body elongated oval (Fig.1) length 5.90mm long and 2.60-2.70mm wide rather flat, shiny black, finely dense punctuate on surface.\r\nHead \r\nMaxillary palps moderately long more than the width of head anterior to the eyes, with all segments appearing slightly thickened. Apical segment slightly shorter than penultimate, penultimate segment slightly shorter than 2nd segment, antennae nine segmented. Anterior margin of clypeus rounded, mentum with a few coarse punctures.\r\nThorax \r\nGround punctuation on pronotum slightly finer than head, systematic puncture usually distinct larger than ground punctuation and bearing a fine short seta. Prosternum finely pubescent. Prosternum without a median carina, mesoventrite broadly but sharply triangular, longitudinal carina with distinct tooth at tip. Metaventrite with posteromedial glabrous area slightly longer than wide. Glabrous area slightly less than half of total length of the metaventrite, Femora pubescent on basal fourth fifth. Elytra with distinct suture stria on posterior three fourth. Ground punctuation on elytra similar to pronotum, finer and more dispersed laterally and posteriorly. Systematic punctures same as pronotum.\r\nAbdomen \r\nVentrites densely pubescent fifth ventrites with distinct apicomedial emargination about as wide as deep and lined with coarse yellow bristles.\r\nMale genetalia \r\nAedeagus with parameres gradually tapered in apical third and curved outward; dorsal strut or median lobe tapering apically, apex not reaching the same distal plane as apex of parameres (Fig. 1). \r\nBiology \r\nThe specimen has been collected in densely vegetated lake margin, having different kinds of decaying organic matter in the Loktak lake of Manipur.\r\nDistribution \r\nThailand, Sri Lanka, Indo China, Indonesia, Philippines. \r\nRemark \r\nThe five specimens were examined here from Loktak Lake of Manipur. \r\nThis specimen can easily be distinguished from other Enochrus species by its larger size, dark dorsal colouration and characteristic shape of the aedeagus.\r\nEnochrus nigropiceus can easily be confused with the paler Enochrus elongatulus. Enochrus nigropiceus differs in the apically narrower parameres and broader dorsal strut of aedeagus, and dorsally projecting tooth on the dorsal strut also less developed.\r\n','M. Bhubaneshwari Devi, O. Sandhyarani Devi and S. Dineshwar Singh (2014). The first report of Enochrus nigropiceus Gunderson (Family: Hydrophilidae) from Loktak lake of Manipur .Biological Forum – An International Journal 6(2): 16-18.\r\n'),(4527,'120','Forest Lands Cover Monitoring using the Data Satellite','Seyed Armin Hashemi ','4 SEYED ARMIN HASHEMI.pdf','',1,'Thus, satellite images with capability of massive vision and being repetitive are used at present as an efficient tool to identify and to control the vegetation. In this study, using supervised classification, land samples are taken by GPS and classified by ENVI 4.6 software. Manual classification despite being greatly precise is time intensive and is very expensive. Thus maximum likelihood was used as an adequate technique. Results of numerical classification of images using this technique with participating various band sets indicated that in best situation, total accuracy of classification of the image related to 2004 is 0.7598, respectively and their kappa coefficient is 0.7473, respectively. As well, results indicated that among the influencing factors on the trend of land use change in the forests of study area, the most important reason of these changes are residential centers, construction of new outdoor recreational structures, road construction and other tourism uses. These factors must be considered in the future plans of the area. ','Forest cover, Gisoom forest park, supervised classification, ETM+.','Thus, satellite images with capability of massive vision and being repetitive are used at present as an efficient tool to identify and to control the vegetation. In this study, using supervised classification, land samples are taken by GPS and classified by ENVI 4.6 software. Manual classification despite being greatly precise is time intensive and is very expensive. Thus maximum likelihood was used as an adequate technique. Results of numerical classification of images using this technique with participating various band sets indicated that in best situation, total accuracy of classification of the image related to 2004 is 0.7598, respectively and their kappa coefficient is 0.7473, respectively. As well, results indicated that among the influencing factors on the trend of land use change in the forests of study area, the most important reason of these changes are residential centers, construction of new outdoor recreational structures, road construction and other tourism uses. These factors must be considered in the future plans of the area. ','Providing the initial thematic information is the prerequisite for any planning in the forest sustainable management. For this purpose, forest cover mapping is highly considered as the basic information to provide forestry plane. Since these maps are produced using various techniques from field operations up to using aerial images, great time and huget and rigid work conditions are among the drawbacks to prepare such maps. Thus it is necessary to use more easy and up to date techniques for this purpose. Remote sensing science may be a suitable solution to remove this problem. Among the tools efficient for environmental studies and land sciences is utilizing the information systems technologies most important of which are remote sensing. Geographic information system (GIS) and Global position system (GPS) which provided a huge evolution in the management of land sources information. According to the importance of natural resources and forests, it is required to recognize the sources inside the country and to collect the comprehensive information related to these resources, so that planning in Marco level is performed according to the available potential and resources in the area.\r\nSince the prerequisite for systematic planning and natural resources sustainable management is availability of precise, up to date data. \r\n\r\nA study titled: “Study on the possibility to map the beech species using EMT+ sensor\'s data”, performed the classification of satellite images with original and artificial bands derived by scaling, conversion of major components and combination by performing suitable processing and reconstruction maximum similarity classification was performed. Analyzing the major components was performed based on the bands with high correlation and on the basis of correlation calculation in the desired range. Finally, the map derived from this classification was achieved with 51% total accuracy. Yuan (2005) analyzed the changes and classification of land cover in Minnesota region utilizing the multispectral images of landsat, and studied the trend of land use changes around the urban areas. In this study which approximately 7700 km2 area, landsat images relating to 1986, 1991, 1998, and 2002 were used. Maximum likelihood algorithm in the satellite images classification was including 7 major bands and 3 bands resulting from teseldcap. Satellite images were classified to 7 classes including: forest, agriculture, pasture, urban areas, water, marsh and stony places and then they were studied.\r\nA result of this study indicates a 70000 hectares increase of urban areas during 16 years which was including 75% forest and 13.6% lands converted from other uses.\r\n \r\n Hashemi 20\r\n \r\nBonyad (2005) in a study on the classification of multiband satellite images for inventory and mapping the land cover to decrease the lack of correlation between satellite images utilized the major components analysis technique. Total accuracy in this classification was evaluated as 80.63%. This conclusion is considered suitable to classify the land cover in the study area using major elements analysis.\r\nII. MATERIALS AND METHODS\r\nStudy area: Forest park of Gisoom covers an area of 1058h1. Length of this area is about 4300m2 and its with is up to 2500m2. This is located as a forest strip remained from Talesh forest area in the North western Guilan provine 42 Km2 far from major road of Anzaly port to Astara. \r\n \r\nEastern part with about 887 h areas is assigned to the forest park (Fig. 1). Western part of Gisoom forest with approximately 171h area has been devotes for forest reserve. Image used in present study is the ETM+ images of satellites 2007. ETM+ sensor was launched by landsat 7 and was placed in the desired orbit. It has 8 bands. location resolution ability of all bands expect for 6 and 8 is 30×30 m and resolution ability of band 6 (thermal band) was 60 × 60 and for band 8 which is a panchromatic band is 15 × 15 m. in the operation of geometric correction of images utilized was obtained along the X and Y axis as 0.96 and 0.83, respectively. Also RMSE error for images of 2007 was achieved along the axis x and y as 0.58 and 0.72, respectively. This was acceptable. In both stages, polynominal transformation and nearest neighbor techniques were used for repeated sampling. This technique is the most common technique for repeated sampling. Among the most important merits of this technique is its rapid \r\nperformance, and transmission of major numeric figures and lack of production of new numeric figures (Mehrabany, 2000). As well to perform atmospheric corrections, since the values recorded as pixel values in the remote sensed images differ from real values of reflection and it is required to deduct these values from real values of spectral reflection, thus water coverage value (taking the fact that water coverage value must be zero) is deduced from a. The image bands as atmospheric effect. In remote sensing data, initial calculation of some statistic indices is necessary and useful. \r\nProcessing: Image classification: In other words variance matrix and mean vector which in turn define the variance and correlation of spectral values are used. In general, in the technique of using maximum likelihood, elliptical surfaces will identical likelihood lines or curves are projected which are displayed in the picture.\r\n \r\n\r\n \r\n\r\n\r\nStudied elliptical surfaces define the dependency status of a pixel to a specific spectral group, that is, variance and correlation statistic factors are used. For example, pixel a in the figure are belonged to the group class (0) according to the higher likelihood and correlation intensity.\r\nSelection of classes: In this step, classification classes were selected using the available maps of study area and consulting the related experts.\r\nAccuracy of classification maps was evaluated in 2007 using mixed variance- covariance matrix (Stehman 2004), after classification and derivation of forest land use layers from ETM+ images. In this study, total accuracy and kappa coefficient was used to evaluate the provided layers. In fact, half of land terrain data derived from various area in their field operation or from visual interpretation using high resolution images and available maps were used in the classification training phase.\r\nThe other half of these data was used in supervision and classification precision evaluation phase. The reason to use this technique of land terrain utilization was to prevent optimistic results of evaluation.\r\nDiameter of this matrix consisting the number of pixels correctly classified and the elements outside of the matrix in the rows displays the pixels not being correctly classified which during the classification incorrectly removed from the major class and were allocated to other classes. These errors are also called errors of omission or exclusion. Accuracy of classification of each class is achieved through dividing the number of correctly classified pixels (in diameter) on the number of control pixels (sum of the row) of each class which also is called producer\'s accuracy. Elements outside the matrix diameter in the rows display the land terrain pixels. This reliability is called user\'s accuracy (Table 1).\r\nRESULTS AND DISCUSSION\r\nResults of numerical classification of images by using maximum likelihood classifier and by participating various band sets indicated that in best conditions, total accuracy of image classification for 2007 is achieved as 0.7247, respectively and kappa coefficient is 0.7473 respectively (Table 2, Table 3). By refereeing and comparing to the references such as, Dellepiane and smith (1999), Lefsky and Cohen (2003), Stehman (2004) and Sedighy (2001) where total accuracy and kappa coefficients larger than 0.7 is mentioned as very good and smaller than 0.4 is considered as poor, results obtained through land use classification using satellite images had a good accuracy related to the produced information in respect of every landuse, total accuracy and kappa statistics.\r\nComparing the current and past land use of forests in the study area indicates that the forests dimension in the area \r\nhad a decreasing trend during 2007, which will be illustrated separately in various species. Slope rate didn\'t influence on the forest cover use change since in the study area, slope is maximally 10% and is not effective in occurrence of earthquake and decrease in the forest area.\r\nSeveral forest cottages in the park area based on various factors such as population growth rate and also colonization and tourism rate have disturbed the forest ecosystem and landaus change. For example, expansion of recreational camps, parking lots, race tracks and development of connective roads which were accompanied to utilization of heavy machines caused that the trend of forest cover change expanded during the study period. This had a great influence on destruction of other ecosystems relating to the forest and increase of soil erosion which is consistent to the results of Razaey (2005).\r\nAs dimensions of the road and constructions (parking lot, cottage, race track, etc) classes have increased. Increased dimension of these land uses was accompanied to decreased dimension of other land uses. Destruction and land use change may occur due to the factors such as draught, fire, flooding, volcanism and anthropologic activities such as animal pasturing, expansion of urban areas, agricultural lands and how to manage the natural resources. Finally, after comparing the prepared map and the land use map of the area, it can be concluded that outputs of years 2007 have a higher accuracy. \r\n\r\n','Seyed Armin Hashemi (2014). Forest Lands Cover Monitoring using the Data Satellite .Biological Forum – An International Journal 6(2): 19-23.'),(4528,'120','Assessing indices of growth of Oscar fry (Astronotus ocellatus) fed up with Nauplius of Artemia enriched with MOS extracted from yeast cell wall (Saccharomyces cervisiae)','Faezeh Samie Amlashi, Abbas ali Zamini and Saeid Zarrabi','5 ABBAS ALI ZAMINI.pdf','',1,'This research has been done at biochemistry laboratory at Islamic Azad university of Lahijan for 8 weeks, with the aim of determining the effect of different levels of Mannan Oligosaccharides prebiotic (MOS) and prebiotic of yeast cell wall on index of growth survival rate (SR), of Oscar fry (Astronus ocellatus). After a week of adaptation with culture condition, one hundred Oscar fries with average weight of 0.35gr were randomly fed up into 4 aquariums of 60 liters regarding water temperature of 10% of biomass. In this experiment by separating MOS from prebiotic of yeast cell wall and enriching Nauplius of Artemia with prebiotic MOS at 4 levels of 0 ( control group), 250, 500, 750 mg /l (with three replicate) equal to 21 days the Oscar fries were fed up, and from the beginning of the fourth week till the end of eighth week by adding prebiotic of yeast cell wall at four levels of 0 (control group), 1%, 2% and 3% (with three replicate) to the first food of Oscar fry (Biomar) was designed. At the end of a period indices of growth such as weight gain average (WG), indices of specific growth rate (SGR), final biomass (FB) and final length (FL) at 2 and 3 % levels was more than the 0% (control group) and 1% levels, and significant statistical difference has been observed (p<0.05) but primary biomass of fries between treatments and the control group at the end of a period didn\'t show significant statistical differences (p>0.05). Average daily growth and percent of weight gain (WG) between treatments was more than the control group and at 3% level was more than the control group and other treatments were shown significant between the treatments (p<0.05). Food conversion rate (FCR) of fries at 3 and 2% levels was less than 0% (control group) and 1% treatment (better performance) and statistically significant reduction has been observed (p<0.05). Average rate of obesity between treatments and control group didn\'t show significant statistical difference (p>0.05).Survival rate at all treatments was more than the control group and has significant difference with the control group (p<0.05).','Fish (Astronotus ocellatus), prebiotic of yeast cell wall, MOS, Artemia, indices of growth','This research has been done at biochemistry laboratory at Islamic Azad university of Lahijan for 8 weeks, with the aim of determining the effect of different levels of Mannan Oligosaccharides prebiotic (MOS) and prebiotic of yeast cell wall on index of growth survival rate (SR), of Oscar fry (Astronus ocellatus). After a week of adaptation with culture condition, one hundred Oscar fries with average weight of 0.35gr were randomly fed up into 4 aquariums of 60 liters regarding water temperature of 10% of biomass. In this experiment by separating MOS from prebiotic of yeast cell wall and enriching Nauplius of Artemia with prebiotic MOS at 4 levels of 0 ( control group), 250, 500, 750 mg /l (with three replicate) equal to 21 days the Oscar fries were fed up, and from the beginning of the fourth week till the end of eighth week by adding prebiotic of yeast cell wall at four levels of 0 (control group), 1%, 2% and 3% (with three replicate) to the first food of Oscar fry (Biomar) was designed. At the end of a period indices of growth such as weight gain average (WG), indices of specific growth rate (SGR), final biomass (FB) and final length (FL) at 2 and 3 % levels was more than the 0% (control group) and 1% levels, and significant statistical difference has been observed (p<0.05) but primary biomass of fries between treatments and the control group at the end of a period didn\'t show significant statistical differences (p>0.05). Average daily growth and percent of weight gain (WG) between treatments was more than the control group and at 3% level was more than the control group and other treatments were shown significant between the treatments (p<0.05). Food conversion rate (FCR) of fries at 3 and 2% levels was less than 0% (control group) and 1% treatment (better performance) and statistically significant reduction has been observed (p<0.05). Average rate of obesity between treatments and control group didn\'t show significant statistical difference (p>0.05).Survival rate at all treatments was more than the control group and has significant difference with the control group (p<0.05).','Food is one of the most expensive parts of aqua culturing and its optimization can have important function at reducing production expenses. In this direction different reports have been presented about using prebiotics at food ration at aqua culturing on criteria of growth and survival. Suitable and sufficient food is one important and effective factor at pisciculture. Natural food that is so-called as live food has high importance at culturing and saving ornamental fries (Shaterian, 2011). Agh reported in 2001 that Artemia due to having 55% of protein, 4-20% of oil, all main Amino acids and most fatty acids at favorable level are counted as the best food of aquatics. In this state, live foods provide enzymes for digesting food eaten by new-born fries. Two important actions for aquacultures are supplying creatures proper with the size of fry\'s mouth during primary steps of feeding and then supplying many of these creatures for culturing new-born fries. Artemia or Brine shrimp is a tiny creature from Branchiopoda species that is part of fresh water aquatics that for its survival and potential has gone to the brine water and finally very brine water, on the other hand because this aquatic doesn\'t have any defensive tool against other aquatics, it will rapidly be defeated by kinds of predators. \r\nTherefore it has high adaptability power against different brines (Azari Takami, 2009). One important cases of use of infant Artemia and adult Artemia are as carriers of materials that are directly used by different farmed fishes and crustaceans, through bio-encapsulation Artemia are fed up with some of vital materials like necessary nutrition, vitamins, vaccine, pigments and kinds of necessary drugs that are needed at aqua culturing and then these Artemias as carriers are eaten by farmed aquatics. This action that is called enrichment causes weight gain, survival increase, increase of resistance against kinds of stress like salinity, temperature, transportation, density at farmed aquatics. Based on the kind of using, enrichment can be done by various kinds of required materials. For example enrichment with proteins, oils, vitamins, vaccines and antibiotics (Sorgeloos & Lavens 1996). The basis of proper enrichment are the maximum enrichment(reaching the highest degree) at the shortest time, this time depends on the duration of reaching Nauplius to the first nutritional step (Instar2) and is related to the characteristics of hatching rate and hatching coordination of cysts. As the duration of hatching coordination is shorter that is cysts could hatch with each other at a more limited time, better result is obtained at enrichment. As the duration of hatching coordination is longer, during the accessibility to enrichment ration a number of Nauplius hasn\'t still started feeding and this factor reduces the total absorption of nutrient at napoleons mass (Azaritakami, 2007). The influence of prebiotics on criteria of growth and survival of aquatics, accessing procedures that can increase efficiencies of growth and survival of aquatics is the important goal of constant aquaculture. Prebiotics are in fact cell wall extracted from the yeast Saccharomyces cerevisiae that are produced by the company named Bioncy Orange Natural Company in Austria is supplied from Parsiyan Shafagh darou company that is the formal delegacy of the company in Iran. For doing the research cell wall of the yeast is the origin of 2 important materials of Immunostimulant called β-Glucan (1-3) and MOS , MOS and β -Glucan are the main materials mostly affecting prebiotics (Huang, 2008). Cell wall of the yeast is composed of 30-60% of polysaccharide (MOS & β-Glucan), 15-30% of protein, 5-20% of lipid and a little cetin (Huang et al, 2004, 2005). MOS has also an active prebiotic and can be preserved as nutrition for growth of beneficial bacteria in colon of intestine. MOS are indigestible Glaucoma and protein that provide places of establishment of Mannose at Velvet pile of intestine and prevent connecting of pathogenic bacteria to enterocytes cell (absorptive epithelial cells) of intestine, also prevent formation of bacterial colony and infection of host cells that it leads to the increase of cohesion of intestine velvet pile in order to improve and increase the efficiency of intestine and leads to more and better beneficiary of nutrients (Pryor et al, 2003; Newman, 2007). MOS is a suitable nutritional source for growth and activity of bacterial flora at gastrointestinal tract such as bacteria of lactic acid, lactobacillus and bifidobacters. Lactic acid bacteria by producing Bacteriocin prevents pathogens growth.(Ringo, et al, 1998).Mos as a moderate source of energy is counted by lactic acid bacteria(Miles, 1993). Oscar fry was firstly named as labotes ocellatus by Baron Kovieh in early 1800 but nowadays this fry with a scientific name of (Astronotus ocellatus) belongs to cichlidae family. Regarding the positive effects of prebiotic of yeast cell wall it considers the mentioned fish with the aim of increasing growth and survival rate.\r\nMATERIALS AND METHODS\r\nExtracting MOS from prebiotics of yeast cell wall:\r\nThe first step of this research has been done at chemistry lab of Islamic Azad University of Lahijan in field and experimental forms for a month. At separating and extracting prebiotics MOS from prebiotic of yeast cell wall in any step of separation that has been done at the first step 20gr of prebiotic of yeast cell wall was measured by digital scales. at the second step 2gr of 5% sodium hydroxide was dissolved at 200ml distilled water into a Beaker and 20gr of powder of prebiotic of yeast cell wall was added to it. It is necessary to mention that inside a Beaker one or two magnets have been placed in order to keep the ingredients suspending then the ingredients of the Beaker was put on a heater at the temperature of 100 0c for two hours at the second step beaker was taken from heater to become cool and after making the ingredients cool 5% HCl was added slowly and with PH-meter it was measured until its pH reaches neutral ph that is pH = 7. At the third step the ingredients of beaker was purified by filtration system. At the fourth step 80ml of pure ethanol was added to the ingredients of beaker at this step MOS sediment this sediment was separated from ethanol by centrifuge machine with 5000pm turns for two minutes and at the last step this sediment was washed by diethyl ether (Huang et al, 2010).\r\nPreparation of incubator for hatching Artemia: \r\nConstructing incubation for hatching cyst Artemia:\r\nFor this purpose incubators were made by mineral water bottles for hatching cyst Artemia with 4 levels at 0 (control group), 250, 500 and 750mg/l and (with three replicate).\r\nFirstly 5cm of bottom of each bottle was cut then at the center of cap of bottles a hole was made for passing air tube in order to do the action of delivering oxygen and suspension of cysts constantly then the bottles were put in an inverted form as its cap was placed downward and the action of delivering oxygen was done in a bottom-up direction and placed in aquarium. \r\n \r\n\r\n \r\nAt the first step, 2gr of cyst Artemia and 28-35gr salt rock for each bottle were measured by digital scale and were transferred into each bottle, mild and constant aeration action and permanent light, fixing temperature at 300c during 4 hours has been done very well(for fixing temperature a 150w heater was placed in aquariums.\r\nEnriching Artemia:\r\nAfter 36 hours, Nauplius of artemia hatched from cysts and 12 hours after hatching, while Nauplius entered in instar step and have started active feeding from outside environment, enrichment has been started and prebiotic MOS at 4 levels of 0, 250, 500 and 750mgr/l was enriched to Nauplius of Artemia and finally fed up to fishes. One hundred Oscar fries fishes (Astronotus ocellatus) were sent to each four 60 liters aquariums after biometry (assessing weight and length) and determining biomass with average weight of 35%gr and minimum length of 1.25cm and maximum 2±0/5 and density of 25 ones. Then the act of making fishes compatible with basic ration(that the standard food was Biomar) based on 8-10% of their body weight has been done at three turns (at 10a.m,12 o clock and 3p.m) for a week (Pourali et al, Mohseni et al, 2006, 2003). After a week of compatibility of Oscar fries and bioassay of all studying population of thee research for 21 days (3 weeks) in 4 treatment groups (with three replicated)consisting fishes fed up with Nauplius of Artemia without entering with MOS (control group) fishes fed up with Nauplius of Artemia enriched with 250mg/l of MOS (first treatment) and fishes that fed up with Nauplius enriched with 500mg/l of MOS (second treatment) and fishes that fed up with Nauplius enriched with 750mg/l of MOS (3rd treatment). Treatments of fourth week till the end of eighth week were as below, fishes fed up with Biomar food 0% (control group), 1% prebiotic of yeast cell wall, 2% prebiotic of yeast cell wall and fishes fed up with mixture of Biomar and 3% prebiotic of yeast cell wall. At the end of third week, 60 pieces of fishes were measured with digital scale with the accuracy of 1% of their weight and ruler with precision of millimeter of the total length of these fishes. Before doing bioassay, fishes felt hungry in order to empty their digestive tubes (Ebrahimi et al 2004, Hosseinifar et al 2010). From fourth week till the end of eighth week, fishes were fed up with 1%, 2% and 3% prebiotic of yeast cell wall in combination with biomar food four times (10a.m, 12 clock, 3p.m) and control group that was only fed up with biomar food. During this period biometry (assessing length and weight has been done twice-and in each biometry 60 pieces of fishes has been used. Three minutes after the first period of daily feeding the act of siphoning remained food and removing waste was done. Washing filters and stones of aquarium has also been done once a week. Measuring physical and chemical factors including temperature with thermometer, water pH with digital pH meter of Eco model and the amount of soluble oxygen has been done by Eutech digital Oxymeter daily and data were recorded. Average temperature was 28-30°C, average oxygen 6.62ppm and average pH 8-8.7, during the culturing period that mentioned physical and chemical factors during culturing period didn’t have significant difference (p>0.05).\r\nStatistical analysis:\r\nAt the end of a period growth indices were calculated based on available resources of mathematical equations for considering normal distribution of data in groups and repeats them in order to conform treatment the test Shapiro-Wilk and Histogram drawing was used. In case of normality of data for statistical comparison between groups in treatments, the one-way ANOVA test was used and for considering the reciprocal effect, 2-way ANOVA and after doing test of Homogeneity of variances for comparing groups, Duncan test was used. All statistical analysis was done by using SPSS software version 17 and for drawing chart the software Excel 2003 was used.\r\nRESULTS\r\nThe result indicated that growth factors except obesity coefficient and average length and primary biomass for treating all factors such as average percent of weight gain, food conversion rate, specific growth rate (SGR), average weight gain(WG) and survival of fishes at the end of a period between treatments and control group showed significant statistical difference(to the certainty level of (p<0.05).Also the result showed that a treatment that fed up with Nauplius enriched with 500mg/l MOS has devoted the highest amount to himself at the most of growth factors such as average percent of weight gain, average specific growth rate and average daily growth fishes at the end of a period, the degree of food conversion rate of fishes at 20 treatment was less than 500 and 700 treatments and statistically significant reduction has been observed (p<0.05). \r\nAnd this is the symbol of better performance; survival at each 3 treatments was more than control treatment. Primary biomass of fishes between treatments didn\'t have significant statistical difference with control group. Applying different level of prebiotic MOS has had high effectiveness on increasing performance of growth and survival at Oscar fries and totally positive correlation was obtained between parameters of growth and nutrition with moderate levels of prebiotics MOS of nutrients in comparison with different levels, prebiotic MOS of the levels 500mg/l has had higher efficiency at growth performance of Oscar fries.\r\nThe effect of different levels of MOS and yeast cell wall on parameters of growth and survival rate of Oscar fries has been presented in Table 1.\r\nDISCUSSION\r\nApplying different levels of prebiotic MOS and yeast cell wall has high effectiveness on increasing growth and survival performance, at Oscar fries and totally positive correlation has been obtained between growth, parameters with levels of prebiotic MOS and yeast cell wall at ration. In comparison between different levels of prebiotic MOS and yeast cell wall at ration, 2% and 3% levels have had higher efficiency at growth performance of Oscar fries.\r\nTaati 2010 announced that using prebiotic Immunowall stimmulant (compound having MOS and Glucan) at 3% level causes significant increase at obesity rate of cultured Beluga that doesn\'t adapt with the findings of this research.\r\nIn a research the effect of 3 prebiotics of Ferocto oligosaccharide(FOS), Galacto oligosaccharide (GOS) and Bio-MOS containing MOS extracted from yeast at dose of 1% for a period of 8 weeks on ocellatus sciaenops showed that food conversion rate at the whole period of culturing and controlling didn\'t have significant difference where as in our findings it has \r\n\r\n\r\nsignificant statistical reduction that it correspond to this research that its reason can be known as better digestion of the 1% nutrient and control group than ration having prebiotic MOS or yeast cell wall because there is a little chitin at yeast cell wall (Huang et al, 2004). Factors such as environmental factors especially due to being poikilotherm(season, salinity, light period, temperature, density) physical factors (aquatic species, reproductive cycle and maturity situation, age, gender and nutritional condition) time of sampling, the way of supplying sample, accuracy and sensitivity of methods of measuring on activity of indices of growth and survival can affect it and causes difference at interpretation of the result of the research (Verdegem et al, 1997).\r\nTukmechi et al in 2011 considered the effect of yeast cell wall on growth factors at rainbow trout for a period of 30 days and observed that at obesity coefficient, significant statistical difference hasn\'t been observed that correspond to our findings also he observed that the percent of weight gain, specific growth coefficient has had significant difference with control group that corresponds to the findings of our research. \r\nBut survival rate at this research didn\'t have significant difference with control group that doesn\'t correspond to our findings that this difference can be due to difference of species, length of culturing period, type of consumable ration, qualitative condition of water and resistance of Oscar froes and initial feeding with MOS.\r\nAshourpour, 2011 claimed that using prebiotic of yeast cell wall at high dose (that is 2% and 3% treatment),survival to the amount of 1% against control treatment.(88.33% and 1% treatment) that is compatible with the findings of our research and its reason is probably due to eradicating harmful bacteria by fermentation of this prebiotic at intestine and so production of beneficial bacteria such as lactic acid bacteria that produces compounds such as bacteriosin and prevent growth of harmful bacteria at intestine (Roofchayi, 2011).\r\nUsing prebiotic MOS to the amount of 3 gr per kilogram ration at Gulf sturgeon species didn\'t lead to the appearance of significant difference with control treatment at growth and nutrition that is incompatible with our finding and perhaps the reason of this difference is at the kind of species and qualitative and quantitative conditions of water of culturing environment.\r\nGatlin and Li in 2004 by adding 1 and 2 percent prebiotic of the kind of probiotic I-A and 1 and 2 percent prebiotic of Brewer\'s yeast o ration of striped hybrid bass observed that growth performance, efficiency of nutrition and these supplement in comparison with control treatment has had significant increase that is compatible with our findings.\r\nDaniels in a research in 2006 has considered the effect of enrichment of Artemia with business culture environment of DHASECCO and different levels of PPt 2, 20, 200MOS at Gammarus hamarus and reported that adding MOS at the level of 2 and ppt20 increases the degree of survival rate and growth that is compatible with our findings.\r\nCuljak et al, in 2006 added prebiotic Bio-Mos at the level of 0.6% to the food of young Cyprinids that leads to the significant increase at growth parameters and significant reduction of losses and food conversion rate in comparison to the control group that is compatible with our findings.\r\nSuxsuhe et al (2009) by adding 2 levels of 0.2 and 0.4 percent of business matter DVAQQA resulted from fermentation of Saccharomyces Cerevisiae to ration of hybrid tilapia (Oreochromis nilotcusoaureus) at system of culturing in cage found that beside concentration of beneficial intestinal bacteria, improvement of performance at growth, FCR and survival. Totally the present difference at the result reported by different researchers for applying kinds of prebiotics at various species of cultured aquatics should be probably related to the type of cultured species, environmental condition, nutritional behavior and physiological features of aquaculture. Also the effect of different prebiotic can be evaluated based on quantity and quality of ration, kind of consumable prebiotic, purity degree and its consumable degree at ration and probably especial microbial population being able to use different kinds of prebiotics. Factors such as environmental factors especially cppl-bloodedness of fishes seasons, salinity, light period, temperature, density) physiological factors (aquatic species, reproduction cycle and maturity situation, age, gender and nutritional condition) time of sampling, the way of supplying sample, accuracy and sensitivity of method of measuring affect activity of indices of growth and survival and causes different interpretation of the result (Verdegem et al, 1997).\r\n','Faezeh Samie Amlashi, Abbas ali Zamini and Saeid Zarrabi (2014). Assessing indices of growth of Oscar fry (Astronotus ocellatus) fed up with Nauplius of Artemia enriched with MOS extracted from yeast cell wall (Saccharomyces cervisiae).Biological Forum – An International Journal 6(2): 24-29.'),(4529,'124','Analysis of the Cryptophyta Chloroplast Genome Reveals Presence of\r\nAdditional Genes and Absence of Introns in their Genome','B.C. Sharma and Dipen Ghimiray','1.pdf','',1,'We have studied the sequenced chloroplast genomes from the three species of Cryptophyta\r\n(Cryptomonas, Guillardia and Rhodomonas). In our study we find that the typical introns are absent in their\r\ngenome; though it has been observed in other chloroplast genomes. Considerable number of genes of photosystem\r\nII and I and also genes for ribosomal proteins and other protein genes were observed, which may be due to\r\ntheir transfer into the nuclear genome was not completed in due course of evolution.','Cryptophyta, chloroplast, genome, GenBank.','We have studied the sequenced chloroplast genomes from the three species of Cryptophyta\r\n(Cryptomonas, Guillardia and Rhodomonas). In our study we find that the typical introns are absent in their\r\ngenome; though it has been observed in other chloroplast genomes. Considerable number of genes of photosystem\r\nII and I and also genes for ribosomal proteins and other protein genes were observed, which may be due to\r\ntheir transfer into the nuclear genome was not completed in due course of evolution.','INTRODUCTION\r\nBesides nucleus, DNA is also present in the\r\nmitochondria and chloroplast. The pioneering sequencing\r\nwork of the chloroplast genome was done by Shinozaki et\r\nal., in 1986 on tobacco plant, followed by work of Ohyama\r\net al., on Marchantia in 1986, and by Hiratsuka et al., on\r\nrice in 1989. After that, till today nearly 270 chloroplast\r\ngenomes have been sequenced (NCBI GenBank 2012;\r\nBenson et al., 2012; Sayers, 2012). The rapid increase of\r\nsequence information of different genomes is due to\r\ndevelopment of sophisticated sequencing methods and\r\ntechnologies (Cronn et al., 2008). The average length of\r\nthe chloroplast genome (hence forth mentioned as\r\ncpGenome) is about 200 kb. They consists of set of genes\r\nfor photosynthetic system, protein synthesis system,\r\nchloroplast division, some conserved proteins and\r\nmiscellaneous protein and some potential Open Reading\r\nFrames (ORFs) of unidentified functions.\r\nThe genes of photosystem I are designated as psa\r\nfollowed by respective alphabetical designation, that of\r\nphotosystem II are designated by psb, genes of Cytochrome\r\nb6/F is designated by pet, atp for ATP Synthase, chl for\r\nchlorophyll biosynthesis, rbc for rubisco enzyme, ndh for\r\nNADH Oxidoreductase system, rpo for RNA polymerases,\r\nrpl for ribosomal proteins of larger sub-unit and rps for\r\nsmaller sub-unit, fts and min for divisional genes, ycf for\r\nconserved genes. Usually the cpGenome have two sets of\r\n23S, 16S, 5S and 4.5S rRNA genes and about 30-35 tRNA\r\ngenes (Shimada and Sigura 1991; Robbens et al., 2007). As\r\nwe know, the initial activation of photosystem II by light\r\nleads to the transfer of electrons to photosystem I via\r\nmobile electron carriers, from which further movement of\r\nelectrons takes place to cytochrome b6/F complex and\r\nNADH oxidoreductase system, all these systems functions\r\nin a coordinated manner for the entrapment of the solar\r\nenergy to generate the ATP molecules which are used for\r\nphotosynthetic reactions, thus these systems are very vital\r\nfor the sustenance of life on this planet, as the green plants\r\nare the only food producers in the ecosystem. As any\r\nreaction inside the living organisms are under the control\r\nof either enzyme system or triggered by some signaling\r\nmolecules, both of them are under the direct or indirect\r\ncontrol of the either single or set of genes. Thus, in this\r\ncommunication we are presenting the character and analysis\r\nof the genes of the chloroplast genome which are, in part,\r\nresponsible for the maintenance of this vital process of\r\nphotosynthesis. After the publication on comparative\r\ngenomics of chloroplast genome on three species - tobacco,\r\nrice and Marchantia by Shimada and Shigura (1991) here\r\nwe have tried to continue the work in this field by\r\ncomparing cpGenome of three Cryptophyta species.\r\nMATERIAL AND METHODS\r\nFor this study, we have selected chloroplast genome\r\nof three species of Cryptophyta - Cryptomonas paramecium\r\n(NCBI Ref_Seq NC_013703; Donaher et al., 2009), Guillardia\r\ntheta (NCBI Ref_Seq NC_000926; Douglas and Penny 1999)\r\nand Rhodomonas salina (NCBI Ref_Seq NC_09573; Khan\r\net al. 2007). Their cpGenome was obtained from the NCBI\r\nwebpage and was used for the analysis of the cpGenome\r\nof Cryptophyta.\r\nGene grouping. Gene grouping was done first by\r\nmanual inspection of the genome sequence and later\r\nclassified them according to the set (gene group) to which\r\nthey belong. The set parameters were followed as described\r\nin introduction section.\r\nDetermination of Length. As the positions of the genes\r\nwere described in their sequence, we simply calculated their\r\nlength by subtracting the initial position from final position\r\nand adding 1 to the result, i.e., by the formula:\r\nGene length = (final position - initial position) + 1\r\nThe simple reason of adding the value of 1 is because\r\nwe were following the translation from the first Open\r\nReading Frame (ORF).','B.C. Sharma and Dipen Ghimiray (2012). Analysis of the Cryptophyta Chloroplast Genome Reveals Presence of Additional Genes and Absence of Introns in their Genome. Biological Forum – An International Journal, Forum — An International Journal, 4(21)(:1 1):-71.'),(4530,'124','New Record of Polistes (Polistella) strigosus Bequaert (Hymenoptera:\r\nVespidae: Polistinae) from South India','Lambert Kishore, K.P. Mohammed Shareef and P. Girish Kumar*','2.pdf','',1,'Polistes (Polistella) strigosus Bequaert is herewith recorded for the first time from South India and also from Western Ghats.','Polistes (Polistella) strigosus Bequaert, Western Ghats, Kerala, South India, new record.','Polistes (Polistella) strigosus Bequaert is herewith recorded for the first time from South India and also from Western Ghats.','INTRODUCTION\r\nThe genus Polistes Latrielle is the cosmopolitan genus\r\nwhich is most abundant and widely distributed among social\r\nVespidae. They are commonly known as paper wasps and\r\nusually make relatively small colonies and usually build their\r\nnests in human inhabited areas. They are generally nonaggressive\r\ncompared to other social wasps but can be\r\nprovoked into an aggressive morale for defending their\r\nnests. They are considered as beneficial insects since all\r\nthe species are predatory and many consume large numbers\r\nof caterpillars of many insect pests.\r\nThis genus is currently divided into four subgenera\r\n(Carpenter, 1996a). They are: Polistes (Polistes) Latrielle, P.\r\n(Gyrostoma) Kirby, P. (Polistella) Ashmead and P.\r\n(Aphanilopterus) Meunier. The first three subgenera are\r\ndistributed in the old World (including Australasia), but a\r\nfew species of the subgenera Gyrostoma and Polistes have\r\nbeen accidentally introduced into the New World and the\r\nsubgenus Aphanilopterus is distributed in the New World.\r\nTwo hundred and sixteen described species and numerous\r\nsubspecies are recorded under this genus from the world,\r\nof which 82 species belongs to the subgenus Polistella\r\nAshmead (Carpenter, 1996b; Nguyen et al., 2011).\r\nThere are eighteen species of Polistes (Polistella)\r\nrecorded from Indian subcontinent till date (Das and Gupta,\r\n1989; Carpenter, 1996b; Gusenleitner, 2006). They are\r\nPolistes (Polistella) adustus Bingham, P. (P.) angusticlypeus\r\nGusenleitner, P. (P.) assamensis Bingham, P. (P.) dawnae\r\nDover and Rao, P. (P.) delhiensis Das and Gupta, P. (P.)\r\nephippium Cameron, P. (P.) khasianus Cameron, P. (P.)\r\nlatinis Das and Gupta, P. (P.) lepcha Cameron, P. (P.)\r\nnigritarsis Cameron, P. (P.) opacus Gusenleitner, P. (P.)\r\nquadricingulatus Gusenleitner, P. (P.) rubella Gusenleitner,\r\nP. (P.) Sagittarius de Saussure, P. (P.) santoshae Das and\r\nGupta, P. (P.) similis Das and Gupta, P. (P.) stigma Fabricius\r\nand P. (P.) strigosus Bequaert. P. (P.) strigosus Bequaert is\r\na polytypic species with 3 subspecies based on the colour\r\npattern. Out of the 3 subspecies, P. (P.) strigosus atratus\r\nDas and Gupta and P. (P.) strigosus mimus Bequaert are\r\nrecorded from Indian subcontinent of which P. (P.) strigosus\r\natratus Das and Gupta is reported from India (Assam, Bihar,\r\nDelhi, Manipur, Sikkim, Tripura, Uttarakhand and West\r\nBengal). None of them were reported from South India. The\r\nblack and brown colour pattern is highly variable in this\r\nspecies. It requires further studies with more specimens\r\nfrom different localities for confirming the status of different\r\ncolour variants (subspecies). So, at present, we are not\r\ndealing with the colour variants (subspecies) of this species\r\nhere. In the present paper, this is the first report of this\r\nspecies from South India.\r\nMATERIAL AND METHODS\r\nThe present study is based on a collection from\r\nAnakkampoyil (11.26\'N 76.3\'E), hill side valley of Vellarimala,\r\npart of Western Ghats, Erivetti (11.12\'N 76.05\'E), near\r\nAreekode, an adjacent area of Western Ghats, Chevayoor\r\n(11.16\'N 75.49\'E) and Balussery (11.45\'N 75.83\'E) of\r\nKozhikode district, Tanur (10.58\'N 75.52\'E) of Malappuram\r\ndistrict and Agricultural University Campus (10.31\'N 76.17\'E),\r\nVellanikkara of Thrissur district in Kerala state. All the\r\nstudied specimens were kept in the Department of Zoology,\r\nMalabar Christian College (DZMCC), but eventually will be\r\ntransferred to the Hymenoptera Section of the Zoological\r\nSurvey of India, Kolkata (NZSI).\r\nAbbreviations used in the text : DZMCC = Department\r\nof Zoology, Malabar Christian College, Kozhikode, India;\r\nMCZ = Museum of Comparative Zoology, Harward\r\nUniversity, Cambridge, Massachusetts, USA; NZSI =\r\nHymenoptera Section of Zoological Survey of India, Kolkata,\r\nIndia.\r\nRESULTS AND DISCUSSION\r\nPolistes (Polistella) strigosus Bequaert\r\nPolistes strigosus Bequaert, 1940, Trans. Amer. Ent.\r\nSoc., 66: 269-272, Holotype Female, Wong-Sa-Shui, China\r\n(MCZ).\r\nBiological Forum – An International Journal, Forum — An International Journal, 4(21)(:1 8):-91(220-1127) (2009) ISSN No. (Print) : 0975-1130\r\nISSN No. (Online) : 2249-3239\r\nKishore, Shareef and Kumar 9\r\nImage.1 Polistes (Polistella) strigosus Bequaert, female\r\nMaterial examined : Anakkampoyil, hill side valley of\r\nVellarimala, part of Western Ghats, Kozhikode district, Kerala,\r\nIndia, 2 Female, 21. iv. 2012, Coll. Lambert Kishore and Party;\r\nErivetti, near Areekode, an adjacent area of Western Ghats,\r\nMalappuram district, Kerala, India, 1 Female, 25.iv. 2012,\r\nColl. Lambert Kishore and Party; Chevayoor, Kozhikode\r\nDistrict, Kerala, India, 1 Female, 20.iv. 1999, Coll. Vyjayanthi;\r\nBalussery, Kozhikode District, Kerala, India, 1 Female, 13.xi.\r\n1999, Coll. Jobiraj; Tanur, Malappuram District, Kerala, India,\r\n1 Female, 2.i. 2002, Coll. Roshni; Kerala Agricultural\r\nUniversity Campus, Vellanikkara, Thrissur District, Kerala,\r\nIndia, 1 Female, 5.v.1999, Coll. Ushakumari.\r\nDiagnostic characters : Female : Head reddish brown\r\nwith supraclypeal area, a band on vertex, antennal flagellum\r\ndorsally, posterior margin of clypeus, basal margin of\r\nmandible, blackish. Thorax reddish brown with following\r\nparts blackish : A line along posterior margin of pronotum,\r\nantero-lateral margin of mesoscutum, a mark on each\r\nposterior lateral corner of mesoscutum, outer margin of\r\ntegula, propodeum with two marks laterally and one median\r\nmark, dorsal metapleuron, lower half of ventral metapleuron,\r\na mark on the mesepimeron along the dorsal metapleuron,\r\nepicnemium almost entirely, ventral side almost entirely.\r\nGaster brownish with first tergite except medially, third and\r\nfourth tergite almost entirelyblackish; first tergite reddish\r\nbrown medially; second tergite almost entirely yellow.\r\nHead wider than high (65 : 60) and narrower than thorax\r\n(70 : 60); clypeus wider than long (47 : 40), lateral margin\r\nthat lie along the inner eye margin longer than malar space\r\n(23 : 17), with scattered deep punctures; mandible, vertex\r\nbehind posterior ocelli, temple, malar space with scattered\r\npunctures; ocular sinus, frons, vertex up to posterior ocellus,\r\npronotum, mesoscutum, scutellum, postscutellum,\r\nmesopleuron, metapleuron densely rugoso-reticulate;\r\ninterocular distance more at clypeus than on vertex\r\n(45 : 43); ocellocular distance slightly shorter than ocellooccipital\r\ndistance (11 : 13); temple narrower than eye in\r\nprofile (10 : 16); malar space slightly shorter than fourth\r\nantennal segment (8 : 11), antenna nearer to eye than to\r\neach other (11 : 18); dorsal metapleuron, propodeum and\r\nmetasternum with strong striations; about apical half of\r\nmesosternum with dense deep punctures; second cubital\r\ncell at top slightly shorter than the distance between first\r\nintercubitus and first recurrent vein (17 : 18); first gastral\r\ntergite wider than long (110 : 86); second gastral tergite\r\nwider than long (73 : 47) and also wider than head\r\n(110 : 97).\r\nLength : Female, 12-15 mm; Fore wing 13-14 mm.\r\nDistribution : India : Assam,Bihar, Delhi, Kerala (new\r\nrecord), Manipur, Sikkim,Tripura, Uttarakhand andWest\r\nBengal.\r\nPublished record from Tanakpur of Uttar Pradesh (Das\r\nand Gupta, 1989) is needed to change because Tanakpur is\r\nnow situated in the newly formed Uttarakhand state.','Lambert Kishore, K.P. Mohammed Shareef and P. Girish Kumar* (2012). New Record of Polistes (Polistella) strigosus Bequaert (Hymenoptera:\r\nVespidae: Polistinae) from South India.Biological Forum – An International Journal, Forum — An International Journal, 4(21)(:1 8):-91.'),(4531,'124','Economic Valuation of Reservoirs in Terms of Agricultural\r\nProductivity and Fishery in Dry Region of Sangli District, Maharashtra','Alaka Patil','3.pdf','',1,'The paper reports significance of man made reservoirs in agricultural productivities and fishery\r\nin arid tahsils of Sangli district of Maharashtra. Cropping pattern was found changed from rainfed crops to\r\ncash crops like wheat grapes and grams. Water is also useful for inland fishery by some community as a\r\nincome source. Fishery is one of the important extractive uses of the wetlands. It is one of the additional\r\neconomic dimensions of farmers having wetland availability.','Agricultural productivity, Fishery, Sangli district.','The stored water from reservoirs is utilized for\r\nagricultural irrigation. Cropping pattern is changed in nearby\r\nvillages. Majority of farmers have shifted from dry land\r\nagriculture to horticulture and commercially important cash\r\ncrop cultivation. The reservoirs are found more beneficial\r\nespecially to marginal land owners. Majority of farmers have\r\nimproved their financial status.\r\nThe reservoirs are significant for in land fishery. The\r\nfisherman community is dependent on these water bodies','Water is the prime natural resource, a basic human need\r\nand a precious national asset. The quality of water is of\r\nvital concern for mankind since it is directly linked with\r\nhuman welfare. Water is utilized for domestic purpose, for\r\nindustrial applications, agriculture purpose, as well as for\r\ninland fishery.\r\nAgricultural productivity is very complex phenomenon\r\ndependent on various physical, edaphic, socio-economical\r\nand technological factors. It is expressed in terms of out\r\nput per unit of input. It is also a measure of agricultural\r\nefficiency depending upon the man made framework to\r\nexploit the reservoirs. The availability and supply of water\r\nthrough different modes of irrigation is key factor in\r\ndetermining the agricultural production in general.\r\nIn Maharashtra, 13% agricultural land is under irrigation.\r\nThere are 14 districts come under drought prone situation,\r\nSangli is one of them.\r\nSimultaneously, fishery is also one of the important\r\nproductivity of water bodies. It is an additional source of\r\nincome to fisherman community. The present work is on\r\nthree water reservoirs of Sangli District with respect to\r\nagricultural productivity and fishery.\r\nThe present work, therefore, is an attempt to assess\r\nthe productive potential in terms of agricultural and fishery\r\nof a fresh water reservoirs of arid tahsils of Sangli district,\r\nSTUDY AREA\r\nGeographically, Sangli district is divided into two zones.\r\nKrishna river basin area and eastern drought prone region\r\nof the district which is away from river basin with low\r\nrainfall and with typical geographical set up.\r\nThe eastern part of the district shows low fertile soil\r\nbecause of natural set up where man-made reservoirs have\r\nbecome source of irrigation besides the well. This region\r\nincludes Khanapur, Atpadi, Kavathe-Mahankal, Jath and\r\neastern part of Tasgaon tahsil. This eastern region shows\r\nscarcity of water leading to general dry climate. The present\r\nwork is restricted for the study of man-made reservoirs of\r\nthe drought prone eastern part of the Sangli district.\r\nThese tahsil have some minor irrigation reservoirs\r\nconstructed where rain water is stored from adjoining\r\ncatchment area. This stored water is being utilized in dry\r\nmonths for many purposes.\r\nAttempts have been made to know the significant role\r\nin social and financial upliftment of local inhabitants with\r\nspecial reference to agricultural and fishery.\r\nMATERIAL AND METHODS\r\nThe socio-economic aspects of these reservoirs have\r\nbeen studied during July 2008 to August 2010. Local people\r\nfrom the respective villages were interviewed with the help\r\nof questionnaire. The data obtained through questionnaire\r\nis analysed in laboratory and used for discussions and\r\nfurther results. Other visual observations were also made\r\nfor these reservoirs. Secondary data was obtained through\r\nsurvey with respect to fishery and agricultural productivity.\r\nThe socio-economic survey was conducted adjoining\r\nthe nearby villages of reservoirs randomly. The household\r\nhead considered as unit of analysis of profile.\r\nThe fishes captured by fishermen were observed during\r\nthe regular visits of study period. Fishermen and their family\r\nmembers were interviewed about their whole activity and\r\ntheir profit. Fishes were identified following the state keys\r\nof Jhingran (1982, 1991), Jayaram (1999).\r\nRESULT AND DISCUSSIONS\r\nThe stored rain water in the reservoirs is used for\r\ndrinking, irrigation as well as for domestic purpose. The\r\nfishing activity by the adjoining villagers and farmers is\r\nthe additional income source. From human civilization,\r\nirrigation is an age old art, to increase the crop production\r\nBiological Forum – An International Journal, Forum — An International Journal, 4(21)(:1 1):0-1124(-21071(22)009) ISSN No. (Print) : 0975-1130\r\nISSN No. (Online) : 2249-3239\r\nPatil 11\r\nfor growing population. The government policies\r\nencouraged the farmers to utilize surface water, ground water\r\nresources by providing financial support. Doshi and Pujari\r\n(1997) reported that in the drought prone districts of\r\nMaharashtra, there is changing crop pattern and crop yield.\r\nThe quantity and quality of human efforts modify the farm\r\npractices at farm as well as regional level.\r\nSingh and Dhillon (1984) reported the significance of\r\nthe use of water resources. Irrigation system is regional\r\neconomic development. Any future planning of irrigation\r\ndepends upon the basic and essential aspect of supply of\r\nagricultural water from ground and surface resources\r\nAfter construction of the reservoir, the farmers started\r\ncultivation of crops like wheat, sugarcane, gram and cotton.\r\nSome farmers are cultivating grapes, vegetables etc. The\r\nfarmers were initially cultivating rain fed crops only jowar,\r\nmaize, tur and urid before construction of reservoir.\r\nIn the survey of Atpadi town, majority farmers are\r\ncultivating pomegranate, cotton and side by side wheat and\r\njowar on large scale while, sugarcane and gram on small\r\nscale (Fig. 1).\r\nFig. 2 represents changing crop pattern at Sidhewadi\r\nafter construction of Sidhewadi reservoir. Here majority of\r\nthe farmers are cultivating export quality grapes, wheat, and\r\ngram. Comparatively sugarcane and vegetable growers are\r\nvery less.\r\nBorgaon villagers were earlier growing only the rain\r\nfed crops and cereals. But currently, those farmers are\r\ncultivating wheat, sugarcane, gram, grapes on a large scale,\r\nwhile vegetables and betel leaf on small scale (Figure 3).\r\nThe scenario has been changed totally in the studied area.\r\nAll surveyed villages were initially cultivating rain fed\r\ncrops like Sorghum bicolor (L.) Moench var bicolor,\r\nCajanus cajan (L.) Millsp. , Vigna mungo (L.) Hepper, Vigna\r\nunguiculata (L.) Walp. Subsp. cylindrica (L.) Eseltine, Vigna\r\nradiate (L.) Wilczek, Vigna aconitifolia (Jacq.) Morechal,\r\nEleusine coracana (L.) Gaertn., Pennsetum americanum (L.)\r\nK. Schum, etc. but now they are shifted to fruit crops and\r\ncash crops. Because the water supply was low especially,\r\nduring March, April and May due to dead storage of water\r\nin reservoir.\r\nDatye et. al. (1988) have noticed similar type of\r\nchanges in drought prone region of Sangli district. Sathe\r\net. al. (2006) have reported changing pattern of rain fed\r\ncrops to sugarcane, wheat and grapes in Ped, Pundi, Morale\r\nvillages of Tasgaon tahsil. Doshi and Pujari (1997) have\r\nalso observed that farmers are shifted to cultivate fruit crops\r\nlike ber, pomegranate, mango and grapes depending up on\r\nnature of land and water resources. The changing crop\r\npattern and further economy is entirely based on available\r\nwater resources.\r\nThus, based on the studies it can be suggested to\r\nrecharge, to maintain and to increase the water resources\r\nin drought prone areas is the need. Further, their\r\nmanagement and conservation will lead to sustainability.\r\nNiranjan Kumar et. al. (2008) have reported the ground\r\nwater of Gajwel is excellent for agriculture purposes.\r\n0\r\n10\r\n20\r\n30\r\n40\r\n50\r\n60\r\n70\r\n80\r\nPomegranet Cotton Jowar Wheat Gram Sugarcane\r\nCrops\r\nNo. of farmers\r\nFig. 1. Cropping pattern of Atpadi.\r\n0\r\n5\r\n10\r\n15\r\n20\r\n25\r\n30\r\n35\r\n40\r\n45\r\n50\r\nWheat Grapes Gram Sugarcane Jowar Vegetables Maize\r\nCrops No. of farmers\r\nFig. 2. Cropping pattern of Sidhewadi.\r\n0\r\n10\r\n20\r\n30\r\n40\r\n50\r\n60\r\n70\r\nWheat Sugarcane Grapes Gram Jowar Vegetable Maize Beetle\r\nCrops\r\nNo. of farmers\r\nFig. 3. Cropping pattern of Borgaon.\r\nFishery and Lively hood : In India, especially during\r\nlast four decades fishery is adding considerably to the\r\nalready existing rich water potential for the development of\r\ncountry\'s fishery resources. Fish fauna of various reservoirs\r\nhave been reported by David (1969), Dey (1978), Jhingran\r\n(1982), Sharma et. al. (2004), Hujare (2005) and Dakhad et.\r\nal. (2008).Basically, these reservoirs were constructed for\r\n12 Patil\r\nirrigation. Earlier, fishery was neglected, but developments\r\nrelated to fishery were initiated last few years.\r\nFishermen community of Bhoi, Bagadi and Koli races\r\nand also muslim people generally, do the fishing at all\r\nreservoir. Nearly 10-12 families of fishermen migratory\r\ncommunity located along the bank of Sidhewadi reservoir\r\nfor three-four months. All the fishermen communities are\r\npoor and uneducated. The new generation has got 3-4 years\r\nof basic education. The involvement of children in fishing\r\nis often noted. These children are withdrawn from schools\r\nand are involved in fishing.\r\nAt Atpadi, Borgaon and Birnal local Hindu people do\r\nthe fishing from last five years.\r\nSreekantha and Ramachandra (2005) have reported the\r\nvery poor fishermen community permanently located along\r\nthe banks of Linganamakki reservoir of Sharavati River.\r\nFishermen co-operative society : The fishermen have\r\nestablished the co-operative societies. These societies\r\nobtain the right of fishing from government authorities for\r\na period of five years on lease. If a tank is on lease by\r\nperson or supported by co-operative society then,\r\nfisherman has to pay 10 Rs. per kg per day to lease man or\r\nco-operative society. The collected amount is used to\r\npurchase the seed of carp. The societies are actively\r\nengaged in fishing as follows:\r\n1. Jay malhar fishery co-operative society, Atpadi.\r\n2. (i) Sidheshwar fishery co-operative society, Savlaj.\r\n(ii) Shri R.R. Patil fishery co-operative society,\r\nWaiphale.\r\nThese both the societies working for Sidhewadi.\r\n3. Samrat fishery co-operative society, Borgaon.\r\n4. Jyotirling fishery co-operative society, Kumbhari at\r\nBirnal.\r\nSreekantha and Ramachandra (2005) have observed\r\nfishermen co-operative society located at Sagar taluk of\r\nShimoga district in Karnataka.\r\nOccurrence and Diversity : Fishes make up most of\r\nthe abundant classes of vertebrates, both in terms of\r\nnumber of species and number of individuals. 21723 species\r\nof fish under 4044 genera, 445 families and 50 orders has\r\nbeen recorded in the world (Hora 1921).\r\nTalwar and Jhingran (1991) estimated 2546 species of\r\nfish belonging to 969 genera, 245 families and 40 orders.\r\nAccording to Jayaram (1999), among 2500 species, 930 are\r\nfresh water inhabitants in the Indian region alone.\r\nBiodiversity is essential for stabilization of ecosystem,\r\nprotection of environmental quality, for understanding\r\nintrinsic worth of all species on the earth (Gadgil and Kar\r\n2000). In the recent past much literature has been generated\r\nabout pollution effects of various chemicals on different\r\norgans of different fishes (Saksena 1987, Sadhu 1993,\r\nBanarjee and Bhattacharya 1995, Gautam and Ritesh 1995,\r\nNagrajan and Yuvarani 2006).\r\nTable 1 highlights fish fauna in Atpadi, Sidhewadi,\r\nBorgaon and Birnal reservoir. During this study 5 species\r\nof cultivated carps have been identified. There are about\r\n10 local fish species found in the reservoir along with a\r\ncrab variety.\r\nThe prominent major carps are Labeo rohita (Rohu),\r\nCatla catla, Cirrhinus mrigala (Mrigal). The common carp\r\nis Cyprinus carpio. The Chinese carp is\r\nHypoplithalimichthys molitrix (silver carp).\r\nThe local fish varieties like (Tambir) Labeo fimbricatus,\r\n(Kanas) Labeo calbasu, Chana gachua (Dokrya), Chana\r\nmarulius (Murel), Mastocembelus (Vam), Ompok\r\nbimaculatus (Khaprya), Glossogbius girris (Putia), Barbus\r\nminor (Singi), Mystus malbaricus (Shingati) and Ambasis\r\nranga (Kanchki). Crabs Barytelphusa spp. found only in\r\nSidhewadi.\r\nLabeo rohita is commonly occurring fresh water major\r\ncarp fish, available in the local ponds and rivers\r\n(Saradhamani et. al. (2007).\r\nThe catch from rivers and reservoirs includes two\r\nspecies of family Masacembalidae that is Mastocembelus\r\narmatus and Mastocembelus aculatus, from which\r\nMastocembelus armatus species was found more common.\r\nChavan et. al. (2005) have reported that Mastocembelus\r\narmatus species was already enlisted in the threatened\r\nchecklist of Ichthyofauna from Marathwada region of\r\nMaharashtra.\r\nCirrhinus mrigala, Catla catla, Labea calbosu, Labeo\r\nrohita, Ompok, Mastocembelus armatus were recorded in\r\nthe 11 water bodies of Assam by Kar et. al. (2009).\r\nThe present investigation reveals that a slightly\r\nseasonal variation occurs in physico-chemical parameters\r\nwhich can thrive well in environmental conditions and\r\ntowards conservation of valuable fish resources.\r\nTable 1 : Diversity of Fishes from reservoirs.\r\nLocal name Scientific name A S Bo Br\r\nRohu Labeo rohita + + + +\r\nCatla Catla catla + + + +\r\nMrigal Cirrhinus mrigala + + + +\r\nCyprinus Cyprinus carpio + + + +\r\nSilver carp Hypoplithalimichthys + + + +\r\nmolitrix\r\nTambir Labeo fimbricatus + + - -\r\nKanas Labeo calbasu + + - -\r\nDokrya Chana gachua + + - -\r\nMurrel Chana marulius + + - -\r\nVam Mastocembelus armatus + + + -\r\nPatil 13\r\nKhaprya Ompok bimaculatus - + - -\r\nPutia Glossogbius girris + + - -\r\nSingi Barbus minor - + - -\r\nShingati Mystus malbaricus + + - -\r\nKanchki Ambasis ranga - + - -\r\nCrabs Barytelphusa sp. - + - -\r\nTotal 12 16 06 05\r\nA: Atpadi reservoir S: Sidhewadi reservoir\r\nBo: Borgaon reservoir Br: Birnal reservoir\r\nProductivity : In rainy season (July-August) about 5\r\nthousand fingerlings per year of carps are released in each\r\nreservoir by co-operative societies.\r\nThe fishing season initiates in the month of January\r\nand extends up to May. Nearly 200 days out of 365 days\r\nare used for fishing.\r\nFishing activities usually done by gill nets locally\r\nknown as kandimini, besides these the cast nets are also\r\nused for fishing.\r\nAverage weight of single fish ranges between 250 g to\r\n500 g. A team of fishermen collect about 10 to 20 kg fishes\r\nper day.\r\nMarketing and Income : Collected fishes brought to\r\nthe shore and sorted according to the species and size of\r\nfish. Small and medium sized fishes got better demand and\r\nmarket value. The fishes were sold at the rate of 40-50 Rs/\r\nkg in the market. The fishes were purchased by the\r\nmerchants or whole salers at lower prices. Sometimes, the\r\nfishermen would do the retail selling of fishes and gain the\r\nprofit of 20 to 40% (Table 2).\r\nTable 2 : Average fish catch and profit of fisherman and\r\nlease man.\r\nDuration Fish catch Profit of Profit of\r\nfisherman (Rs) fisherman (Rs)\r\n40-50 Rs/kg 10 Rs/Kg\r\n1 Day 10- 20 kg. 400-1000 100-200\r\n3 Days of 30- 60 kg. 1200-3000 300-600\r\nweek\r\n1 Month 120-240 kg. 4800-12000 1200-2400\r\n5 Months 600-1200 kg. 24000-60000 6000-12000\r\nCONCLUSION\r\nThe stored water from reservoirs is utilized for\r\nagricultural irrigation. Cropping pattern is changed in nearby\r\nvillages. Majority of farmers have shifted from dry land\r\nagriculture to horticulture and commercially important cash\r\ncrop cultivation. The reservoirs are found more beneficial\r\nespecially to marginal land owners. Majority of farmers have\r\nimproved their financial status.\r\nThe reservoirs are significant for in land fishery. The\r\nfisherman community is dependent on these water bodies\r\nfor fish catch as income source.\r\nFew local fishes are identified from the water bodies\r\ni.e. local diversity of aquatic ecosystem has maintained well.','Alaka Patil (2012).Economic Valuation of Reservoirs in Terms of Agricultural\r\nProductivity and Fishery in Dry Region of Sangli District, Maharashtra. Biological Forum – An International Journal, Forum — An International Journal, 4(21)(:1 1):0-1124.'),(4532,'124','A Review: The Effect of Pesticides on Fish Fauna of Bhopal Upper\r\nLake (MP)','Dr. Mukesh Kumar Napit','5.pdf','',1,'Studies on the toxicity of common pesticides and some industrial pollutants on fishes have been\r\nreviewed. Pollutants such as pesticides cause diseases, behavioral abnormalities, cancer and gene mutations in\r\nfishes. Physiological malformation, histological, haematological and biochemical changes have also been observed\r\nin fishes, Pesticides significantly affect the early life stages of fishes. Toxic effects of pesticides vary in\r\ndifferent organs of the fish. Liver, gill, kidney are tissues that can accumulate high level of pollutants as well\r\nas other factors, such as salinity temperature, hardness etc.','Bhopal Upper Lake, Fishes, Pesticides, Toxicity.','Pesticides have been recognized as serious pollutants of\r\naquatic environment. Its affect fish directly by accumulation\r\nin their body. They cause serious impairment in metabolic,\r\nphysiological and structural system (Table 1). It may affect\r\nan fish indirectly by transfer to the next trophic level of\r\nfood chain. The accumulation of pesticides in the tissues\r\nof an fish can result in chronic illness and cause potential\r\ndamage of population. Fish are able to accumulate and\r\nretain pesticides and other pollutants from their\r\nenvironment. Accumulation of pesticides in the tissue of\r\nfish is dependent upon exposure concentration as well as\r\nother factors such as salinity, temperature, hardness and\r\nmetabolism of fish.\r\nPesticides effect on specific vital organs such as liver,\r\ngill and kidney. Liver contains the highest pesticides\r\nconcentration because it is an organ of storage and\r\ndetoxification of pesticides. Liver has also an important role\r\nin storage, redistribution, detoxification and also act as an\r\nactive site of pathological effects, induced by contaminants.\r\nDifferent degree of pesticides accumulation in various\r\ntissues depends upon the biochemical characteristic of\r\npesticides. Fish may accumulate pesticides by absorption\r\nthrough gills, has been observed the concentration of\r\npesticides in gill reflect the concentration of pesticides in\r\nwater in which fish species live.','INTRODUCTION\r\nIndustrial waste has long been recognized as serious\r\npollutant of the aquatic environment. Pesticides have toxic\r\neffect in exposed organism. The presence of pesticides\r\nbeyond permissible limits in water has been reported\r\nworldwide. Our study focuses on the toxic effect of\r\npesticides on fish.\r\nIn lake, steps have been taken to monitoring of\r\npesticides and other pollutants level in water sample.\r\nMonitoring of pollutants has been done in the lake. Several\r\nnational drinking water mission and integrated environment\r\nprogramme on pesticides and other pollutants.\r\nWater samples collected from various sources in\r\ndifferent sites of lake were analyzed and pesticides were\r\nfound within the permissible level. Pesticides concentration\r\nin submerged pants and fish at various sites of upper lake\r\nwere observed only down stream sites and in fish collected\r\nat Bhadbhada weir, Kaliasot dam, Shaymala hills,\r\nAhmadabad hills, Khanugaon and Ramsar, which was\r\npossible due to discharge of pesticides containing influent\r\nfrom various industries along sites of the lake.\r\nMost of sites of lake are seriously polluted by\r\nindustrial effluents. Effluents are waste products in liquid\r\nform resulting from industrial processing. They are released\r\nby different industries such as petrochemical complex,\r\nfertilizer factories, Oil refineries, Pulp paper, textile, Sugar,\r\nSteel mills and tanneries etc. All the chemicals of industrial\r\nwaste are toxic to animal and many cases of death or sublethal\r\npathology of liver, kidney, reproductive system,\r\nnervous system of fishes have been reported.\r\nBy discharge from the effluent inflows, amount of\r\npesticides in water show an increase. They are present in\r\nwater in dissolved condition form only at low levels, since\r\npesticide compounds have low solubility. Mineral\r\nsuspension and precipitation substances are able to store\r\npesticides ions on their outer surface. Pesticides can also\r\nbe found in water organisms. They can be taken up by\r\nhigher organism through the food chain and sink to bottom\r\nas sediment.\r\nPesticides are pollutants which affect the aquatic fish.\r\nPresence of pesticides show alteration of behavior, bioaccumulation\r\nof pesticides in the body of fish\r\nhistopathological and biochemical alterations in fish.\r\nPesticides also effect early life stages of fish (Table 1).\r\nMATERIAL AND METHODS\r\nWater samples were collected seasonally during june\r\n2011 to july 2012 from polluted and non polluted selected\r\nsites using rottener water sampler and were estimated by\r\nstandard methods as given by APHA (1985). Fishes are\r\ncollected, arranged, preserved, identify and classify based\r\non the work of Jhingran (1982), with slight modification as\r\nfollowed by Day\'s Fauna (1989) and Jayaram (1999).\r\nRESULTS AND DISCUSSION\r\nAll pest destruction agents are collectively known as\r\npesticides. The most frequent used pesticides are\r\ninsecticides, herbicides and fungicides. Pesticides are of\r\ntwo type naturally occurring and synthetic pesticide.\r\nBiological Forum – An International Journal, Forum — An International Journal, 4(21)(:1 1):9-1221(-21071(22)009) ISSN No. (Print) : 0975-1130\r\nISSN No. (Online) : 2249-3239\r\n20 Napit\r\nS. No. Test Organism Pesticides/pesticide Exposure Duration Effect Organism\r\nConc.\r\n1. Catla catla Endosulfan carbonyl 0.04ppm Signuficant histological alterration in gill.\r\n0.05ppm\r\n2. Labeo rohita Chlorophyrifos 15 days, 30 days Biochemical changes of total protein and glycogen observed.\r\n3. Puntius Depletion in the activity of arginine and tryptophane\r\npunctatus Endosulfan and Diazinon 7 days, 14 days showing the interaction of pesticides with cellular proteins.\r\n4. Puntius Endosulfan and Diazinon 15 days, 30 days Alteration of calcium content in the stomach after pesticides\r\npunctatus treatment.\r\n5. Puntius Rogon (dimithoate) 7 days, 14 days Abnormal behavior pattern in fish\r\npunctatus\r\n6. Cyprinus Carbofuran 16ppm 30 days, 90 days Decrease in total erythrocyte count, total leucocytes count\r\ncarpio and hemoglobin count.\r\n7. Cyprinus carpio Aldrin, Dieldrin BHC and DDT 30 days Bioaccumulation of chlorinated pesticides in fish tissue gill,\r\n& Puntius ticto liver muscle and kidney observed.\r\n8. Mystus. Dimecron and Thiodon 7 days, 14 days Rate of food in take, absorption and metabolism decrease\r\nvittatus from the control value.\r\n9. Heteropneustes Endosulfan\r\nfossilis .00075 ppm Increased concentration, of toxicant showed the decrease\r\n.00050ppm 15d,30d in liver glycogen. Hepatic cells are damaged due to depletion of\r\n.000375ppm 45d,60d glycogen.\r\n10. Heteropneustes Dimecron 90 day Significant decrease in Hb%, RBC number and O2 carrying capacity\r\nfossilis of blood.\r\n11. Clarias Carbaryl and Phorate 24h, 72h, 120h,\r\nbatrachus 168h, Cholesterol level in serum decreased during exposure period.\r\n12. Clarias Phorate .27ppm 168h Physiological and histological disorder in testis and ovary of\r\nbatrachus insecticide exposed fish.\r\n13. Gambusia Dimecron .0068ppm 30 day Histopathological changes such as hepatic lesion with necrosis\r\naffinis pyconic nuclei vasculation damageded blood vessel in alimentary\r\ncanal, liver, kidney and gill.\r\n14. Oreochromus Endosulfan 30day Endosulfan induced dysfuncation of osmoregulation processes,\r\nmossambica resulting in alteration of ionic composition of blood.\r\n15. Nandus Endosulfan and Diazinon 30 day Significant histological alteration in gill and finregion.\r\nnandus\r\nSynthetic pesticides like chlorinate organophosphate and\r\ncarbonate. Organophosphate are most toxic to vertebrate.\r\nOrganophosphates inhibit cholinesterase an enzyme\r\nessential for transmission of nerve impulse across the\r\nsynapse. DDT and other organic chlorine chemical may have\r\nan influence on endocrinal system. DDT is highly stable\r\nchlorinated hydrocation or extremely low degradability. DDT\r\nis one of the most known pesticide previously used\r\nworldwide. The fat solubility and extreme persistence of\r\nDDT have led it to be stored in the body of almost all\r\norganism. The use of DDT has been declared illegal by\r\nalmost all countries. Like pesticides also caused toxic effect\r\non fish. Behavioral abnormalities include cancer,\r\nhematological and biochemical change which have been\r\nobserved in pesticides exposed fish. I have reported\r\nabnormal behavior of Puntius punctatus due to exposure\r\nof Rogor insecticide. Bioaccumulation of Aldrin, Dieldrin,\r\nBHC DDT in gill, liver, muscle and kidney of Cyprinus\r\ncarpio and Puntius ticto have been observed pesticide alter\r\nthe enzyme activity. The acetyl cholinesterase activity in\r\nbrain of Cyprinus carpio (finger lings) pesticide.\r\nHistology of gill altered due to effect of pesticide\r\n(endosulfan carbarly). Pesticides exposed fish also shows\r\nhematological changes. Decrease of erythrocyte and\r\nTable 1. Toxicity of pesticides on fishes.\r\nNapit 21\r\nleucocytes count in pesticide (carbofuran) exposed Cyprinus\r\ncarpio. Dimecron exposed Heteropneustes fossilis and\r\nshowed significant decrease in Hb%, R.B.C. number and\r\nO2 carrying capacity of blood.\r\nIn Catla catla, Nandus nandus and Labeo rohita have\r\nbeen observed significant histological and biochemical\r\nalteration in gill and fin region due to effect of endosulfan,\r\ndiazinon and chlorophyrifos. Carbaryle and phorate,\r\ndecreased cholesterol level in serum due to exposed in\r\nClarias batrachus. Decrease Rate of food intake absorption,\r\nmetabolism and control value in pesticide (Dimecron and\r\nThiodon) exposed Mystus vittatus. Endosulfan exposed\r\nOreochromus mossambica and showed dysfunction of\r\nosmoreguration processes, resulting in alteration of ionic\r\ncomposition of blood (Table 1).','Dr. Mukesh Kumar Napit (2012). A Review: The Effect of Pesticides on Fish Fauna of Bhopal Upper Lake (MP). Biological Forum – An International Journal, Forum — An International Journal, 4(2): 19-21. '),(4533,'124','Protective Role of Caffeine (1, 3, 7-Trimethylexanthine on Lead Induced Alterations in Protein Content of Different Tissues of Fresh Water Bivalve, Lemellidens corrianus (Lea)','M.O. Mulajkar and S.P. Zambare','6 DR MEGHA.pdf','',1,'The present communication deals with effectiveness of caffeine (1,3,7-Trimethylexanthine) in lead induced toxicity in an experimental model, the freshwater bivalve, Lamellidens corrianus. The effect on bivalve was studied under five groups. Group A bivalves were maintained as control, B group bivalves were exposed to chronic dose (LC50/10) of lead nitrate (6.81 ppm) for 20 days. Group C bivalves were exposed to respective chronic concentration of lead nitrate along with caffeine (5mg/l). Protein contents in selected tissues from each group were estimated after 10 and 20 days. Bivalves from group B were divided for recovery into two groups D and E after 20 day exposure to lead. D group bivalves were allowed to cure in normal water, E group bivalves were exposed to caffeine (5mg/l) up to the 9 days. From each of recovery groups, some bivalves were removed and protein contents in selected tissues of bivalves were estimated after 3, 6 and 9 days. The protein level was significantly decreased on exposure to lead while the decrease in presence of caffeine was less when exposed simultaneously than when exposed individually. During recovery protein contents recovered and the rate of recovery was faster in caffeine exposed bivalves as compared to those recovered in normal water. The probable role of the caffeine (1,3,7-Trimethylexanthine) is discussed in the paper.','caffeine, protein, Lamellidens corrianus','The present communication deals with effectiveness of caffeine (1,3,7-Trimethylexanthine) in lead induced toxicity in an experimental model, the freshwater bivalve, Lamellidens corrianus. The effect on bivalve was studied under five groups. Group A bivalves were maintained as control, B group bivalves were exposed to chronic dose (LC50/10) of lead nitrate (6.81 ppm) for 20 days. Group C bivalves were exposed to respective chronic concentration of lead nitrate along with caffeine (5mg/l). Protein contents in selected tissues from each group were estimated after 10 and 20 days. Bivalves from group B were divided for recovery into two groups D and E after 20 day exposure to lead. D group bivalves were allowed to cure in normal water, E group bivalves were exposed to caffeine (5mg/l) up to the 9 days. From each of recovery groups, some bivalves were removed and protein contents in selected tissues of bivalves were estimated after 3, 6 and 9 days. The protein level was significantly decreased on exposure to lead while the decrease in presence of caffeine was less when exposed simultaneously than when exposed individually. During recovery protein contents recovered and the rate of recovery was faster in caffeine exposed bivalves as compared to those recovered in normal water. The probable role of the caffeine (1,3,7-Trimethylexanthine) is discussed in the paper.','INTRODUCTION\r\nHeavy metals are one of the most common forms of anthropogenic pollutants in the aquatic environment. Industrial wastes are generally loaded with these toxic substances. Most toxic metals are lead, mercury, cadmium, zinc, arsenic and copper which enters the environment and deteriorates water quality. It has been observed that heavy metals can cause biochemical effect, such as inhibition of enzymes, metabolic disorder, genetic damage, hypertension and cancer (Underwood, 1971; Zemansky, 1974; Lucky & Venugopal, 1977). Heavy metals mainly react with proteins and adversely alter the physiological activities hence cause risk of life in different way. Lead is well known severe environmental pollutant, considering as furtive villain (Raghuram, 2000). Protein acts as enzyme, antibody, hormone and basic structural component of the animal. Protein is key substance to show the effect of heavy metal. Proteins respond to stress condition for better survival by altering their levels. \r\n The trace metals are known to be non bio-degradable and highly toxic to most organisms (Kaoud and Dahshan, 2010). \r\n Detoxification has also become a prominent treatment as people have become more aware of environmental pollution. Dimercaprol (BAL), Calcium EDTA, penicillamine etc. are used in metal intoxication as chelators to remove As, Hg, Pb, and Cd poisoning. There are number of chelators used for the remediation of metal toxicity. Chelators are particular substances that bind to heavy metal and speed their elimination (Hammand, 1971; Graziano et.al.,, 1985). Antioxidant plays a protective role in the treatment of lead poisoning (Gurer et.al, 2001). \r\nCaffeine is found to have antioxidant activity. Caffeine being water soluble and common cheaper beverage, caffeine will be cheapest preventive and curative medicine. The protective action of caffeine from damage of tissues biomolecules and genetic material due to heavy metal generated free oxygen radicals might be because of its antioxidant property (Mahajan,2005)\r\n\r\n \r\nMulajkar and Zambare 23\r\n \r\n\r\n\r\nThough there are known chelators to remove the toxic heavy metals, they are not usually practiced unless heavy doses are taken. These chelators are also having the toxic effects. It is therefore necessary to know the remedy which is in the diet of regular food as the heavy metals also enters in the body in small doses regularly. There immediate removal will be helpful in the present scenario to protect the body. The present work was carried out to study the protective as well as curative role of caffeine individually on chronic exposure of lead nitrate and during recovery on the experimental model, Lamellidens corrianus. \r\n\r\nMATERIALS AND METHODS\r\nThe freshwater bivalves, Lamellidens corrianus were collected from the Nathsagar dam at Paithan Tq. Paithan. Dist. Aurangabad (M.S.). After collection, bivalves were acclimatized in the laboratory condition at room temperature for 2-3 days. The healthy and active acclimatized bivalves of approximately same size were selected for experiment. These bivalves were divided in to five groups and were treated as follows.\r\nFirst group was maintained as Control. In second group the bivalves were exposed separately to chronic doses (LC50values of 96 hr/10) of Lead \r\n\r\n\r\n\r\nnitrate (6.81 ppm) up to the 20 days. Third group bivalves were exposed separately to chronic concentration of Lead along with of caffeine (5mg/l) up to the20 days.\r\nAfter 20 days exposure to lead nitrate, bivalves from group B were divided in to two subgroups as D and E for recovery studies. Bivalves pre-exposed to chronic doses of lead nitrate were allowed for self cure in normal water while the bivalves of group E were exposed to5mg/1caffeine up to 9 days. \r\nThe experimental bivalves from A to C groups were dissected after 10 days and 20 days and from each recovery group (E and D) were collected after 3,6 and 9 days. The digestive glands and testis, from all experimental and recovery group were dried at 80 0C in an oven until constant weight was obtained. The dried powders of these tissues of control, experimental and recovery group animals were used for estimation of their protein contents. Total protein was estimated by Lowry’s method (Lowry et. al., 1951) using bovine serum albumin as standard from each powder. The average results of three repeats are presented in the table No. 1 and are expressed as percentage of dry weight. Percent variations, standard deviation, and “t” test of significance were calculated and are expressed in respective tables.\r\nTable 1 and 2 clearly indicates that, after chronic exposure of lead nitrate (6 .81ppm), there was high depletion in protein level in gonads and digestive glands of Lamellidens corrianus as compared to respective control. The protein content in tissues of bivalves exposed to lead with caffeine showed least decrease in protein content. During recovery after 20 days lead exposure, bivalves showed faster recovery in caffeine, which is fast than those bivalves which are allowed to cure naturally in normal water. \r\nPollutants comprising heavy metals may alter cellular functions, ultimately affecting physiological and biochemical mechanism of animals (Radhakrishnan et.al.1991). during acute and chronic heavy metal stress depletion of protein level was observed in gonads and digestive gland. \r\nAndhale and Zambare (2011), studied the nickel induced biochemical alterations in freshwater bivalve, Lammellidens marginalis and reported that the protein contents were decreased in treated animals than the control. In the present study ascorbic acid recovered the total protein content and it play important role as detoxication of nickel which recovered the protein content.\r\nThe depletion in protein level during heavy metal exposure might be due to increase in protein catabolism to overcome against the stress of lead. The heavy metals bind with the DNA and cause the DNA damage, also the RNA polymerase are inactivated by heavy metals. These facts can reduce the rate of transcription and hence, the rate of the protein synthesis (Mahajan, 2006).\r\n Heavy metal, mercury affects DNA, contracts the chromatin and disturbs the protein synthesizing machinery of the cell resulting in to the decreased enzyme synthesis in hepatopancrease (Zambare and Mahajan 2001).\r\n Rao et al. (1994) recorded that the content of sperm protein in cauda epididymis reduced significantly on exposure to mercury for 60 days. Rao et al. (1987) found decrease in protein levels in the hepatopancreas of Indonaia caerules on exposure to fluorides. Mohanty et.al., (2005) analyzed and compared protein profile from gill, foot, and mantle \r\nof two freshwater bivalves, L. corrianus and L. marginalis and found protein markers which helps to study the molluscan taxonomy. Decrease in protein content in mantle, foot, gill, gonad and hepatopancrease of bivalve, after exposure to HgCl2 and CuSo4 treated animal might be due to alteration of membrane permeability (Abel, 1975). \r\n Caffeine has capacity to bind with heavy metals. Heavy metal content of water was reduced after addition of coffee. Caffeine binds divalent cations of calcium in Ferrete ventricular muscle (Leoty et..al., 2001). \r\n Dissolved heavy metal ions are positively charged and caffeine contains uncharged and negatively charged molecules. Metal ions might bind to negatively charged groups. This reduces the charged active heavy metal ions which indicates that caffeine have capacity to remove the heavy metal from the living organism. Gandhi and Khanduja, (1992) studied action of caffeine in altering the carcinogenic activating and detoxifying enzymes in mice. Caffeine has been found to increase glutathione synthetase activity in liver and lungs of mouse \r\nThe present investigation concluded that caffeine have a capability to reduce stress effect of lead nitrate. Caffeine has more efficient protective action against lead toxicity. Also it was noticed that they show accelerated curative rate than individual cure of animal stressed by lead intoxication\r\n','M.O. Mulajkar and S.P. Zambare (2012). Protective Role of Caffeine (1, 3, 7-Trimethylexanthine on Lead Induced Alterations in Protein Content of Different Tissues of Fresh Water Bivalve, Lemellidens corrianus (Lea).Biological Forum – An International Journal, 4(2): 22-25 .'),(4534,'124','Sexual Selection','Dr. K.K. Verma ','7 DR KK VERMA.pdf','',1,'Selection in evolution of sexual features, including sexual behaviour, has been referred to as sexual selection, of which three modes are: (a) Sperm Competition, (b) Cryptic Female Choice, and (c) Sexual Conflict. Examples of the three modes have been included. Difference between sexual selection and natural selection has been made out, but it has been inferred that it is difficult to draw a firm line between the two types of selection. West-Eberhard’s concept of social selection, evolution of female ornaments, and mechanism of exaggerated development of male ornaments and weaponry have been briefly reviewed','sexual conflict; social selection; sperm competition','Selection in evolution of sexual features, including sexual behaviour, has been referred to as sexual selection, of which three modes are: (a) Sperm Competition, (b) Cryptic Female Choice, and (c) Sexual Conflict. Examples of the three modes have been included. Difference between sexual selection and natural selection has been made out, but it has been inferred that it is difficult to draw a firm line between the two types of selection. West-Eberhard’s concept of social selection, evolution of female ornaments, and mechanism of exaggerated development of male ornaments and weaponry have been briefly reviewed','Selection, involving sexual features, including sexual behaviour, has been referred to as sexual selection. As has been pointed out by Padian and Horner (2010), the phenomenon was given this name by Charles Darwin. Sexual selection is Darwinian selection among sexual traits; but this statement may cause some confusion. Generally by Darwinian selection is meant Natural Selection. While, as is the common impression, Natural Selection leads to taxonomic diversity, sexual selection operates within the limits of a population or a species. However, this difference between the two sorts of selection, is not a firm one, as in some cases sexual selection too may result in speciation in sympatry (Mank. 2009; Kraaijeveld et al., 2011). \r\nAmong the various definitions of sexual selection, the most comprehensive is the one suggested by Emlen and Oring (1977), who say that sexual selection is concerned with evolution of “the ability of a portion of a population to control the access of others to potential mates”. As Wenninger and Averill (2006) have pointed out, evidences, pointing to the role of sexual selection in shaping sexual features, are “mounting”. These authors have mentioned three modes of sexual selection, viz.:\r\n(i) Sperm competition, i.e. sperms, received from different males, compete in the female genital tract to fertilize eggs.\r\n(ii) Cryptic female choice, i.e. the female accepting or rejecting the sperms from a particular male.\r\n(iii) Sexual conflict, i.e. conflict between sexes over control of reproduction. An instance of sexual conflict is, for example when a female shows resistance to the male attempting to achieve intromission.\r\n\r\nSPERM COMPETITION\r\n\r\nRecently some well planned and well executed studies on sperm competition have been published. Fisher and Hoekstra (2010) have noted cooperation among sperms of the same or similar origin to achieve precedence in effecting fertilization. They have experimented with the deer mice (Peromyscus maniculatus). A female of this species is highly promiscuous, mating with several males in a very short period, a few minutes. As a result sperms of different males are simultaneously present in the female genital tract. These sperms form aggregates, either by heads of a number of sperms getting glued together, or \r\nby the head of a sperm joining the middle piece of another sperm, and several sperms, joining in a series this way, form a train-like aggregate (Fig. 1). Such aggregates have the advantage of swimming with greater velocity to reach an ovum than single sperms.\r\nFig. 2 – Diagram to illustrate a subtle sexual conflict in the pipe fish Syngnathus scovelli. (Based on observations of Paczolt and Jones, 2010).\r\n[A – A male, copulating with a small bodied female, receives only a small brood, as the small female has transferred only a small number of eggs to the brood pouch of the male. Next the male copulates with a large \r\nfemale. As during the previous pregnancy there has been only a small energy input for rearing a small brood, the male has more energy to invest in the current pregnancy; hence a large brood is delivered, larger than what it could have delivered, if the previous mating were with a large female.\r\nB – A male, mating with a large female, delivers a fairly large brood. Next it may mate with a small female. Due to a large energy investment in rearing the brood resulting from the previous mating, the male has available only a small amount of energy for the next brood. Moreover, the energy starved male, during development of the second brood, may absorb some nutrients from the developing embryos in its brood pouch; as a result there may be some “filial annibalism”, and only a tiny brood may eventually be delivered. Thus in either situation (A or B) small females are negatively Selected.] \r\n\r\n \r\nFisher and Hoekstra (loc. cit.) have studied sperm behaviour in interspecific matings by bringing together in vitro live sperms, obtained from P. maniculatus male and those from male of another species of Peromyscus , P. polionotus. The sperms from the two species had been dyed with different fluorescent markers. Among the aggregates, formed by the sperms, in 83% aggregates sperms of both the species were present, but most aggregates were constituted by significantly more conspecific sperms. In intraspecific matings, with some conspecific sibling/littermate males, it was noted that a greater proportion of sperms from the same male/litter group aggregated together. From such observations the authors have inferred that the sperms were able to recognize relatives and that genetically similar sperms have the tendency of grouping in the aggregate formation\r\n\r\nThis cooperation strategy has the advantage of genetically similar sperms moving faster to reach an egg. But out of the sperms in an aggregate only one is able to fertilize the egg, while other sperms in the group may undergo premature acrosome reaction , and thus get wasted. The sperm, successfully fertilizing the egg, gets the advantage of positive selection (direct fitness), and other sperms in the group, with the same genetic constitution, get the advantage of aiding a genetically related sperm passing its genome to the next generation (indirect fitness).\r\n\r\nIn another species of Peromyscus, P. polionotus the female is strictly monoandrous. But in this species too there is tendency of sperm aggregate formation in the female genital tract. The significance of sperm grouping in this case, as per Fisher and Hoekstra (loc. cit.), is to make the sperms move faster in a “potentially hostile female tract”.\r\nParker (1998) has inferred, on basis of theoretical considerations, that males achieve fertilization in proportion to the number of sperms in their ejaculate. Simmons et al. (2007) have interpreted their results on basis of this principle. They have studied 16 species of the scarabaeid Onthophagus with dimorphic males. The two male morphs are: (i) ‘major males’ or ‘guards’, which are large bodied and provided with weapon-like sclerotic growths for fighting rival males and for guarding their females, and (ii) ‘minor males’ or ‘sneakers’, which are small bodied, without the ‘weapons’, and which sneak copulation with females , while the females are being guarded by major males. It has been noted by the authors that sneakers have bigger testes than guards. This difference in testis size has been ascribed to resource allocation trade off. As a major male develops \r\ninto a large body with offensive/defensive devices, it has only a small resource availability for sexual development, while a minor male, with its small body and lack of ‘weapons’, can afford more resource use for development of sex organs. Presumably the larger testis size of the sneakers enables a larger ejaculate with higher sperm count, and thus gets a selective advantage over major males. These presumptions need to be supported by empirical studies.\r\nThe selective advantage to the minor males should lead the Onthophagus species, with dimorphic males, to evolve towards having monomorphic males, i.e. with all males ‘minors’ or ‘sneakers’. Agreeing with this suggestion is the situation that Onthophagus taurus populations in western Australia and those in North America show genetic divergence. The O. taurus populations in western Australia have high density, and those in N. America are low density populations. Coupled with his fact is that west Australian populations have a significantly higher proportion of sneakers than N. American populations. \r\n\r\nden Boer et al. (2010) have studied sperm survival in some eusocial insects. They have chosen two species of bees and three species of fungus growing ants. In all eusocial insects the queen mates early in life, soon after eclosion, and then has a life time supply of sperms stored in her spermatheca. Among the species chosen, two (Bombus terrestris, a bumble bee, and Trachymyrmex zeteki, an ant) with the queen monoandrous, i.e. mating with a single male, while three species (Apis mellifera, Atta colombica, and Acromyrmex echinatior, the last two leaf cutting ants) are polyandrous, i.e. the queen mates with several males in a quick succession. The authors have assayed in these species sperm survival in ejaculates under different conditions in vitro. The main inferences, arrived at by the authors in these studies:\r\n(1) The male AG (= accessory gland secretion), present in the ejaculate, has the effect of reducing the level of survival of the sperms from another male, already present in the queen’s genital tract in a polyandrous species, but has no such effect in a monoandrous species.\r\n(2) The AG secretion, from a brother or an unrelated male, has no differential effect on sperm survival.\r\n(3) AG secretion contains compounds, which are favourable for survival of sperms from the same male, and may contain also compounds which “incapacitate sperm of competing males”.\r\n\r\nden Boer et al. (loc. cit.) have collected some virgin queens of Atta colombica, which were artificially inseminated. They removed fresh sperms from the testis of the donor male, and mixed them with AG secretion from the same male. Such treated sperms showed a high level of survival. But, when the sperms were mixed with AG secretion of an alien male, the survival value of the sperms was significantly reduced. If, however the alien AG secretion was mixed with the spermathecal secretion of the artificially\r\ninseminated female, the sperm survival was almost as high as when mixed with the AG secretion of the sperm donor male.\r\n\r\nIn brief, as per the findings of den Boer (loc. cit.), in a polyandrous queen of an eusocial insect species, after mating , the AG secretion , received with the ejaculate, tends to incapacitate the sperms from an alien male, but her spermathecal secretion tends to counter this effect of the AG secretion, seemingly to ensure a life time supply of sperms.\r\nPennisi (2010), studying movement of red and green fluorescent sperms, from two different males, in the female genital tract of a fruit fly, has also recorded competition from the sperms from the two donors for reaching an ovum.\r\nPizzari (2010) has also pointed out that, as noted in recent researches, related sperms form a cooperative team in their run for the egg.\r\n\r\nSEXUAL CONFLICT\r\n\r\nThere is a recent review on sexual conflict by Bonduriansky (2009). The author says that the first mention of sexual conflict is in Bateman (1948), who has pointed out that among sexually reproducing organisms nearly always there is undiscriminating eagerness in males and “discriminating passivity” in females. In the \r\n\r\nlater half of the last century empirical evidences, supporting the notion of sexual conflict between eager males and resisting females appeared in good numbers. Formally the concept of sexual conflict was launched by Parker (1979), based on his observations on mating behaviour in dung flies. Typically in sexual conflict an eager male, trying to achieve intromission, may force copulation with a resisting female, and in this ‘he’ may cause harassment and even injury to the female. The forced mating may reduce life expectancy and life-time fecundity in the female. Hence sexual conflict is expected to be weak and even lacking in monogamous species, and may be seen in species, the males of which or both the sexes of which mate with multiple partners. Sexual conflict may lead to “antagonistic coevolution” of those morphological/behavioural features, which in the male help in \r\nholding on to the female firmly and in forcing intromission, and which in females help resisting the male’s efforts for a forced mating. This may set what may be called an “arms race” between the two sexes.\r\nThough empirical observations keep on accumulating, our understanding of evolutionary implications of sexual conflict is far from adequate (Bonduriansky, 2009).\r\n\r\nAs has been said above, sexual conflict is obvious when a female is resisting a male aiming at a forced mating. But in some cases sexual conflict is a subtle phenomenon. Cited here are two examples of subtle sexual conflict among non-arthropods. Similar observations among insects are needed, as that may help us in appreciating their evolutionary significance. \r\n\r\nA subtle case of sexual conflict has been studied by Paczolt and Jones (2010). They have made observations on male pregnancy in Syngnathus scovelli, a pipe fish, belonging to the family Syngnathidae, the family of pipe fishes and sea horses. In many members of this family copulation is followed by eggs being deposited in a brood pouch, developing on the abdomen of the male. The brood pouch is not just a bag for holding developing eggs, but plays the role of a uterus in viviparity. The eggs develop in the brood pouch for several weeks, and the pouch provides “aeration, protection, osmoregulation, and nutrition”. Recent studies have shown that nutrients move both from the father to the developing brood and from the brood to the father. Referring to the work of Sagebakken et al. (2009), Paczolt and Jones (loc. cit.) point out that amino acids, formed in the developing eggs, pass through the walls of the brood pouch to be incorporated in the liver and muscles of the father.\r\nSome of the observations, made by Paczolt and Jones (loc. cit.) on Syngnathus scovelli are:\r\n\r\n \r\n Verma 30\r\n \r\n\r\n\r\n(i) Embryo survivorship in a current male pregnancy is negatively related to the survivorship in the prior pregnancy. Thus there is energy trade-off between the two broods.\r\n(ii) Males prefer to mate with larger females. Male’s reluctance time to mate is significantly shorter for a larger female.\r\n(iii) The number of eggs, transferred to the male brood pouch, is significantly larger during mating with a larger female.\r\n (iv) If a mating is with a smaller female, only a small brood has to be reared by the male; hence energy investment is small. In the rearing of the next brood the male may invest more energy. On the other hand, if after mating with a large female, the next copulation is with a smaller female, after the \r\n prior copulation so much energy has been invested in rearing a large brood that in the following mating there will be paucity of energy and the smaller female’s offer of a reduced brood size will suffer from energy need in the brooding male, as a result of which there may be absorption of nutrients from the developing embryos, and this may be resulting in “infanticide or filial cannibalism”. Thus smaller females are discriminated against or negatively selected both in the pre- and in the post-copulatory phases (Fig. 2). In the pre-copulatory phase because of the smaller female’s capacity to deliver only a small number of eggs during copulation, and in post-copulatory phase because of energy expenditure by the male in brood rearing following the previous copulation, specially if the \r\nprevious copulation has been with a larger female. Thus a subtle sexual conflict is going on in this fish. \r\n\r\n Ryan et al. (2010) have studied mating calls in the tungara frogs (Physalaemus pustulosus), and have noted that the mating sound signal, emitted by males, may be a simple whine or a whine ornamented with other sounds (whine chucks). Through experiments, using recorded conspecific, heterospecific, predator produced and human made sounds, the authors have inferred that females of the species show a strong preference for ornamented whines or whine chucks to simple whines, and that males are evolving towards production of ornamented whines as mating calls.\r\n\r\nYet another example of sexual conflict is sexual cannibalism by female known in some spiders. Female spiders are polyandrous, which tendency is countered by the mating male by taking to mate guarding, genital mutilation, or by application of a mating plug. In some highly sexually cannibalistic species the mating plug is provided by the intromittent ‘palpal’ organ, getting severed from the male body and left in the copulatory position beneath the epigynum of the female. The palpal organ is an appendage carried on the tarsus of the pedipalp. It represents a modified tarsal claw (Marshall & Williams, 1972), which has become adapted to sperm storage and intromission. The organ is differentiated into a basal ‘bulb’ and a distal spine-like ‘embolus’ (Fig. 3) The bulb is hollow, and stores sperms, and its cavity continues as a fine lumen into the embolus, ending in an opening at its tip. The male deposits sperms on a special part of the web, from where the sperms get sucked into the bulb. During copulation the embolus enters the vagina, and delivers sperms into it. From the vagina the sperms move into the spermathecae (Marshall & Williams, 1972).\r\nIn some highly sexually cannibalistic spider species, as has been said above, during copulation the palpal organ gets detached from the male, and remains in the copulatory position in the female. Li et al. (2012) have observed that sperm transfer from the detached palpal organ into the female genital tract continues in the spider Nephilengys malabarensi. In fact they have noted that the sperm transfer is faster from the severed intromittent organ than when it was a part of the male body. This sperm transfer after detachment of the palpal organ has been referred to by Li et al. (loc. cit.) as “remote copulation”. In this the detached palpal organ acts both as a mating plug and as a means to improve the quantity of sperms transferred, though the male in this act sacrifices its own reproductive capacity.\r\n\r\nPerry and Rowe (2012) have comparatively studied intraspecific divergence in the copulatory apparatus of the water strider Gerris incognitus, and also mating behaviour in this species. In a male of this insect the genital apparatus include a grasping mechanism to grasp a resisting female, while in the female there are abdominal structures to help in warding off an approaching male. The armaments, involved, show considerable variation in the extent of exaggeration. If the armaments in the female are large in size, the frequency of successful mating is low. But, if a male has large armaments, successful mating depends upon which mating partner has relatively larger armaments. From this study the authors have inferred sexually antagonistic coevolution going on in this species. \r\n\r\nJudson (2010), in her recent popular article, says, <…the traits that make a “good” male are often different from those that make a “good” female (….talking about “good” in evolutionary terms. That means a trait that improves your chance of having surviving offspring) ….and this is the source of tension…>\r\n\r\nCRYPTIC FEMALE CHOICE\r\n\r\nDuring copulation the female may obstruct insemination by contracting some muscles in her genital complex, so that intromission is incomplete or sperms fail to enter the spermatheca, or the female may emit sperm droplets through her genital pore. The rejection or acceptance of the male in copula has been referred to as ‘cryptic female choice’ (Eberhard, 1996). An illustrative example of cryptic female choice is in the work of Rodriguez et al. (2004). These authors have studied the flagellar length and the length of the spermathecal duct in 56 Neotropical leaf beetle species belonging to the subfamily Cassidinae. They have noted a high correlation between the length of the two genital \r\n\r\ntubes among the species. The authors have experimentally studied the sperm transfer role of the flagellum in the cassidine species Chelymorpha alternans. In this species the average length of the spermathecal duct is 5.9 +/- 1.2 mm, and the average flagellum length 21.45 +/- 2.67 mm, the latter more than three times the average body length. The hinder part of the median ejaculatory duct extends into the flagellum, which gets inserted into the spermathecal duct during copulation, and helps depositing a spermatophore close to the spermathecal capsule. The flagellum length varies significantly in the three colour\r\nmorphs of Chelymorpha alternans. When Rodriguez et al. (loc. cit.) arranged matings with virgin females, it was noted that, if the male in copula has a long flagellum,\r\neither no or only a few sperm droplets were emitted through female genital opening during the copulation, but, if the male was with a shorter flagellum, sperm emission was more. The sperm emission was found negatively correlated with the number of sperms getting stored in the spermatheca.\r\nRodriguez et al. (2004) arranged copulation with virgin females also with males with flagellum artificially shortened, and observed that the sperm emission by the female was more and sperm storage in the spermatheca was less as compared to mating with an unoperated male. \r\n\r\nSPECIATION THROUGH SEXUAL SELECTION\r\n\r\nMank (2009), referring to the study by Varn Doon et al. (2009) (not cited under “References” in this review), have pointed to the occurrence of “sympatric speciation via condition-dependent sexual selection”. \r\n\r\nKraaijeveld et al. (2011) have tested the hypothesis, that sexual selection contributes to speciation, by extensively reviewing the published data for different groups, and have statistically and phylogenetically analyzed the data. They have inferred :\r\n(1) that there is a small but significantly positive support for the hypothesis; and\r\n(2) that the frequency of the correlation between sexual selection and speciation varies considerably among different taxa, e.g. :\r\n(a) Among the available data for birds in 38 studies, 24 showed positive correlation,\r\n(b) Among the available data for insects in 6 studies, in 4 studies the hypothesis was supported, and\r\n(c) Among 14 studies on mammals, none was found supportive. \r\n\r\nFrom these studies it may be inferred that in some cases sexual selection may result in speciation. \r\n \r\n Verma 32\r\n \r\n\r\n\r\n\r\nSOCIAL SELECTION\r\n\r\nWest-Eberhard (1983) formulated the theory of social selection, which refers to differential success in social interactions. Among social interactions is included the sexual process. In the original description it has been clarified by the author that sexual selection is a part of social selection. Thus social selection includes ‘sexual social selection’ and ‘non-sexual social selection’; the two components may overlap.\r\nThe advantage of social selection concept is that it has a broad coverage of the social or group living phenomenon, including pre-mating and post-mating behaviour. \r\nThe significance of considering sexual selection as a component of social selection has been pointed out by Tobias et al. (2012), Rubenstein (2012) Lyon and Montgomerie (2012), and Roughgarden (2012). Pizzari and Gardner (2012) suggest a sociobiology approach to problems of sexual interactions; this suggestion comes close to social selection.\r\nMECHANISM OF EXAGGERATED DEVELOPMENT OF SEXUAL ORNAMENTS AND WEAPONS IN THE MALE\r\n\r\nStudies on the rhinoceros beetle, the male of which has a long and apically bifurcated horn, have shown that males with bigger horns succeed in access to the female (Meeting briefs, 2012).\r\n\r\nEmlen et al. (2012), from their studies, have inferred that exaggerated development of the male horns and other ornaments is due to increased cellular sensitivity of the rudiments of these structures to insulin and insulin-like growth factor (IGP). This situation has obviously resulted from selection in favour of increasing cellular sensitivity to these hormonal factors in the developing male weapons and ornaments. \r\nEmlen et al. (loc. cit.) further point out that increasing level of secretion of these hormonal factors affect growth of other organs, in addition to that of sexual ornaments and weapons, including mating signal producing structures. Thus the hormones provide several ranges of variation for selection, including sexual selection. \r\nBesides IGP, another hormone, involved in growth of sexual ornaments and weaponry in insects is JH (Juvenile Hormone), as inferred by Gotoh et al. (2011), which groups has included Emlen. Gotoh et al. (loc. cit.) have experimentally studied the development and growth of the extremely long mandibles in the male of the stag beetle, Cyclommatus metallifer. They have found that the extent of the growth is proportional to the amount of JH made available (through application of JH analog) to the last larva and the prepupa.\r\nIt may be added that JH is known to have a role in inducing polyphenism in insects (Verma, 2007).\r\n\r\nORIGIN OF FEMALE ORNAMENTAL FEATURES\r\n\r\nOrnaments and weaponry in males have been briefly referred to as ornaments by Tobias et al. (2012). Females too may too have such ornamental features. A prevalent view is that males have such structures to fight and drive away rival males. How have females evolved such structures? Tobias et al. (loc. cit.) have pointed out three possible answers to this question:\r\n(i) About half of the genome in a female is similar to that in a conspecific male. Due to this genetic correlation females may also have ornamental traits.\r\n (ii) Like males, females may also compete for a mate.\r\n (iii) Females strongly compete among them for ecological resources.\r\n\r\nTobias et al. (loc. cit.) say that each of these possibilities has theoretical and empirical support.\r\n\r\nHYPOALLOMETRY OF INSECT MALE GENTALIA\r\n\r\nInsect male external genitalia present rich structural details, which are remarkably uniform within a species, presenting only a small range of variation. Reviews on the hypoallometry have been done by Verma (2008, 2011).\r\n\r\n In the 2011 review it has been said that to attribute evolution of the hypoallometry to sexual selection does not appear reasonable, and that Natural Selection can explain it. But the hypoallometry in a species differs considerably from that in a related species; hence it should have evolved in the evolutionary history of the species. Thus evolution of the hypoallometry shares one point of resemblance with sexual selection, which happens within the limits of a population or a species, as has been said under the section “Introduction” of this review. \r\n\r\nRowe and Amqvist (2011) have comparatively and quantitatively studied many genitalic and non-genitalic traits in a clade of 15 water strider species. From their quantitative approach in this study they find a support for the hypothesis that sexual selection is involved in the evolution of the complexity in the genital traits.\r\n\r\nIt may be added here that female genitalic features too show low intrapopulation variability (Eberhard, 2008). \r\n','Dr. K.K. Verma (2012). Sexual Selection .Biological Forum – An International Journal 4(2): 26-34 .'),(4535,'124','Protective Devices in Gazelle Fawn in the Thar Desert of Rajasthan (India)','Hemu Chaudharyand G.R. Jakher','8 HEMU CHOUDHARY N.pdf','',1,'The present paper is based on field observations; carried out in Barmer area of the Thar desert from Sept. 2010 to Nov. 2011, related to protecting devices, studied on eight gazelle fawns. Gazelle breeds round the year but birth peaks high in February- March and July-September. After a gestation period of 5 and ½ month, gazelle gives birth to generally single fawn, in between grasses and shrubs to hide it. The fawn\'s body remains odourless and in exposure area excellently camouflage with surroundings. It remains 2 to 3 days on the birth bed- site; during this period when disturbed, it extends its head and neck along with the ground or puts head on the ground, remains motionless and eyes seems to be fearfully. The hiding fawn becomes active each time, for feeding or hiding by mother\'s voice; as mother remains within 10 meters periphery from the fawn\'s site. ','Indian gazelle, Thar desert, fawn, protective measures.','The present paper is based on field observations; carried out in Barmer area of the Thar desert from Sept. 2010 to Nov. 2011, related to protecting devices, studied on eight gazelle fawns. Gazelle breeds round the year but birth peaks high in February- March and July-September. After a gestation period of 5 and ½ month, gazelle gives birth to generally single fawn, in between grasses and shrubs to hide it. The fawn\'s body remains odourless and in exposure area excellently camouflage with surroundings. It remains 2 to 3 days on the birth bed- site; during this period when disturbed, it extends its head and neck along with the ground or puts head on the ground, remains motionless and eyes seems to be fearfully. The hiding fawn becomes active each time, for feeding or hiding by mother\'s voice; as mother remains within 10 meters periphery from the fawn\'s site. ','INTRODUCTION\r\nThe Indian gazelle, Gazella bennettii (Sykes, 1831) occurs in the Thar desert of Rajasthan, Gujarat (India) and Sindh (Pakistan) (Soni, 1983). Indian gazelle is a medium sized antelope found in open scrubs. In the western part of Rajasthan, Indian gazelle is commonly known as \"Chinkara\" due to its alarming voice \"Chink-Chink\". Gazelle lives in small herds of 3-10 animals and comprised of two types of herds - all male group and bisexual herd. Rahmani (1988) reported that after a gestation period of five and half month, pregnant female gives birth to a single fawn, however occasionally to even twins. Chinkara have no particular breeding season but more births were usually noted after monsoon. Dookia (2002) observed that at the end of the gestation period the pregnant females went away from their own herds. Before parturition the females selected a best place for hiding their fawns in some thick vegetation. The fawn was found walking slowly in and around the birth place only in the presence of mother. The mother gazelles were always watchful and responded to every call (even very low grunts) made by the fawn. According to Kankane (2000) Fawns characteristically lie in exposed places with head and neck extended along the ground, making no attempt to get up and escape when approached. The young does not follow mother until they are two to three days old. According to Gehlot (2006) the mother remains in close vicinity and watchful. As someone reach near to fawn the female moves away \r\n\r\nfrom fawn and from a distance she looks back, raises voice chink- chink- chink and keep watchful eyes towards bedding site of fawn. Jakher and Chaudhary (2011) observed that mother gazelle remains very attentive and within 10 meters periphery from the fawn\'s site. The hiding fawn becomes active/alert each time by mother\'s voice for feeding or at the time of danger. Mother gazelle does not feed the fawn whenever it finds any kind of danger. When it finds any predator/unusual person nearby, mother runs far away from the fawn\'s-site, probably for diverting the vision of the predator/unusual person, to save the fawn. Nature has given some protection devices to each animal; the main aim of this paper is to show the protecting devices in gazelle fawn.\r\nMATERIALS AND METHOD\r\n\r\nThe present study was carried out at Dharasar Ka Tala of Barmer district in Rajasthan; located in between 25º51\'N to 71º41\'E, from September 2010 to November 2011. The study site Dharasar Ka Tala is situated 50 Km far from Barmer and in North-East direction of district headquarter, situated on State highway No. 40. The study was conducted on eight fawns of Indian gazelle with their mothers (in reference to protecting devices in gazelle fawn) in natural conditions by using Focal Sampling Method of Altmann, 1974 (adjusted according to field conditions). The observations were taken direct and also by using a binocular (10 x 50 mm).\r\nOBSERVATIONS AND RESULT\r\n\r\nDuring field-work from September 2010 to November 2011, protecting devices of eight gazelle fawns were observed. In September2010 and August 2011, four newly born fawns were seen in between grasses (1-2 ft. high) like Baker (Indigofera hochstetteri), Bhurat (Cenchrus biflorus), Kanti (Tribulus rajasthanensis) and shrubs like Bui (Aerva persica) and Sinia (Crotalaria burhia) where they could not seen easily by anyone. The fawns were dark–brown coloured and one of them was not cleaned (licked) up by the mother till that time (Plate-1). In October 2010 and November2010, birth of three more fawns in exposure area were noticed where they excellently camouflage with surroundings (Plate-3). In April 2011, one young fawn was found to hide itself in Bui (Aerva persica) shrub in such a good manner that its presence was very difficult to notice (Plate-4). All the fawns were odourless and by any kind of disturbance, two fawns kept its head and neck \r\n\r\n\r\nextended along the ground (Plate-2) but two fawns kept their head on the ground, remained motionless, eyes were fearfully. All the fawns were found on birth bed-site for 2 to 3 days. They were walking near birth place only in the presence of mother but in absence of mother they were in safer place of the bed-site and watching the mother and others. It was found that the fawns were becoming active/alert each time by mother\'s voice- low softly grunting, then for feeding and alarming voice “chink” loud and from a far, then for hiding and for remaining inactive. During this period the mother gazelles were giving less time for foraging because they were found very attentive and within 10 meters periphery from the fawn\'s site in each observation. They responded to every call (even very low grunt voice) made by the fawns. It was also seen that mothers did not feed the fawns as and when they found any kind of danger nearby. When there was any predator/unusual person, the mother ran far away from the fawn\'s-site probably for diverting the vision of the predator/unusual person to save the fawn.\r\n\r\nDISCUSSION\r\nIn the study (on eight fawns with their mothers) relatively birth and survival rate of gazelle fawns are higher during monsoon (Rahmani, 1988) when protecting covering of grasses and shrubs are good in the area. Gazelle gives birth to fawn in between thick vegetation, fawns walk here and there only in the presence of mother. Mothers are always watchful (Gehlot, 2006) and respond to every call make by the fawns (Dookia, 2002). They generally remain 2-3 days on the birth bed-site, in exposure area they extend their head and neck along the ground and attempt not to get up and escape from predators (Kankane, 2000). Fawn\'s body having no odour and by any kind of disturbance they put head down on the ground or head and neck extend along the ground and remain motionless, eyes seem to be fearfully (Jakher & Chaudhary, 2011), in exposure area they excellently camouflage with surrounding. These are obviously excellent tactics or devices used by gazelle fawns to escape from predators. The mothers give less time for foraging as they remain very attentive and within 10 meters periphery from the fawn\'s site. Mothers do not feed the fawns as and when they find any kind of danger nearby. When there is any predator/unusual person the mother runs far away from the fawn\'s-site, probably for diverting the vision of the predator/unusual person to save the fawn. By these protective devices, in the area fawn\'s mortality is observed comparatively lower than adult mortality.\r\n','Hemu Chaudharyand G.R. Jakher (2012). Protective Devices in Gazelle Fawn in the Thar Desert of Rajasthan (India). Biological Forum – An International Journal 4(2): 35-37 .'),(4536,'124','Ichthyofaunal Diversity of Kulsi River: Prime habitat of Dolphin','Chandasudha Goswami and Sayad Ali','9 CHAND SUDHA.pdf','',1,'North East India is very rich in faunal and floral diversity. It is the conjunction of Himalaya and In-Burma biodiversity hotspots. Kulsi, a river of Kamrup District originated from Meghalaya and fall into the River Brahmaputra. In Kulsi river, a good numbers of piscivorous Dolphin (Platanista gangetica gangetica) is present which is schedule-I species under the Wildlife Protection Act, 1972 once wide spread throughout the Kulsi as well as Brahmaputra River. Few studies have investigated that 29 Dolphin were present in Kulsi River in February, 2009 (Wakid). This paper highlights the list of fish species available inclusive of the causes which could be held accountable for growing decline of diversity. The study was carried out from March 2010 to April 2011. 63 species of fish belonging to 8 orders and 21 families were recorded. Out of these 6 are exotic and the rest are indigenous having ornamental as well as economic values. Cyprinids (family: Cyprinidae), Live fish (family: Anabantidae, Clariidae, Channidae, Heteropneustidae), Cat fish (family: Bagridae, Silurdae, Schilbeidae), Clupeids (family: Clupeidae), featherbacks (family: Notopteridae), Loaches (family: Cobitidae), Eels (family: Mastacembelidae), Glass fishes (family: Chandidae) and Gobies (family: Gobiidae) are the major groups of fishes which spotted in the river. Cyprinidae is the most dominant family throughout the river. In some places around Kulsi river people are highly dependent on fishing. Day by day the availability of fish is slowly declining due to anthropogenic stress. People use different types of gears for fishing which are the major threats for the fish population. Awareness among the people and the fisher is inevitable. At the breeding time fishing should be banned in Kulsi River to immediate take of action.','Ichthyofaunal diversity, Kulsi River, Fishing Gear, Dolphin, Awareness.','Kulsi is bestowed with immense resources of Nature. The fish diversity has suffered a lot due to heavy anthropogenic stress. What matters more at this hour are the well plan conservative measures to be undertaken to stem the rot-the alarming decline of fish diversity. Particularly the loaches fish including the commercial fish species which are the be all and end all both of the dolphin and the fisher. ','Kulsi, the southern tributary of the River Brahmaputra earns worldwide fame. The abode of highly threatened aquatic predator, fresh-water river dolphin (Platanista gangetica gangetica) Kulsi is blessed with magnificent fish diversity. As far as the prey base of National and state aquatic animal is concerned, the tectonic wetland chandubi, solbeel and beeldora play a pivotal role. Survival of this cetacean species is dependent on the future well being of these three wetlands which maintain healthy connection with this 80 km long tributary. It is because of the plugging of Kulsi with the Brahmaputra at Gumi cut the role of these three wetlands has become vital as fish migration from these wetlands through the respective connecting channels have been continuing. Kulsi harbors fish species which are diverse. And the food requirement for the piscivorous dolphin is available. The diversity is attributed due to climatic conditions, physiography, \r\n\r\ntopography as well as its drainage pattern. Kulsi is famous for one of the river dolphin viz. Platanista gangetica gangetica, which is listed as Threatened Species by IUCN (Smith et al., 2004). The dolphin breeds only in Subansiri River and in Kulsi River of the entire Brahmaputra delta. The Government of Assam is planning to declare this area as a wildlife sanctuary for the conservation of dolphins.\r\n So far, there are many published report in fish diversity of Assam. Few reports are also available on Dolphin of Kulsi River. But, there has been no study on ichthyofaunal diversity of the river Kulsi. Therefore, this paper investigates some objectives viz to determine the abundance and distribution of various fish species throughout the study area, anthropogenic impact on the river. Moreover, awareness programs are undertaken to aware the people about the status of various fish species as well as that of dolphin. \r\nMATERIALS AND METHODS\r\nStudy Area\r\nKulsi river is of total length 80 km from Meghalaya. The Geographical coordinates of Meghalaya are 25038 N, 91038 E (Wakid and Braulik, 2009), to Nagarbera (Fig 1). But our study area is of 76km exclusive of the Maghalayan segment. \r\nFor convenience of study the river is divided into three segments- (a) from Kulsi to Kukurmara, (b) from Kukurmara to Nagarbera, (c) Jaljali (kulsi- Brahmaputra confluence) at Nagarbera where Kulsi decharges to the River Brahmaputra.\r\n \r\n \r\nSampling \r\nThe study area of 76km contains 3 prominent bifurcation commonly known as ‘dumukh’ at Kulsi (village), Kukurmara and Jaljali (Nagarbera). These 3 sample points were choosen in order to cover all areas and habitat types. Sampling records were taken fortnightly from March 2010 to April 2011. Common fishes were recorded at landing sites and a sample collection was made for certain species for further laboratory confirmation.\r\n\r\nSurvey Method\r\nSpecimens were either collected from landing site or on the river by using various gears (nets, hooks etc), hand pricking etc. Landing sites were monitored at intervals for the stipulated period, covering pre-monsoon, monsoon and post-monsoon seasons. For identification and classification of various fish species Talwar & Jhingran (1991) and Jayaram (1999) were referred. These specimens were preserved in formalin. In addition, the nearby fishermen communities have been interviewed; as well as gears and methods used for capturing fishes were recorded. \r\nRESULTS\r\nAbout 4579 individuals were collected from the river within the study period. A total of 63 fish species (Table 1), that belongs to 8 orders and 21 families were recorded. Out of these, 6 are exotic (Table 2) and the rest are indigenous having ornamental as well as economic values. \r\nDetails of the species recorded from the Study Area\r\n1) Order: Beloniformes (1 family, 1sp) \r\nFamily: Belonidae (1 sp.)\r\nXenentodon cancila ( Hamilton, 1822)\r\n\r\n2) Order: Clupeiformes (1 family, 2spp.) \r\nFamily: Clupeidae (2 spp.)\r\nHilsa ilisa\r\nGudusia variegate (Day, 1870)\r\n\r\n3) Order: Cypriniformes (3 families, 29spp) \r\nFamily: Balitoridae (1 sp) \r\nNoemacheilus botia (Hamilton, 1822)\r\nFamily: Cobitidae (2 spp)\r\nBotia Dario (Hamilton, 1822)\r\nBotia histrionic (Blyth, 1860)\r\nFamily: Cyprinidae (26 spp)\r\nCatla catla (Hamilton, 1822)\r\n Labeo bata (Hamilton, 1822)\r\nPuntius sarana sarana (Hamilton, 1822)\r\nEsomus danricus (Hamilton, 1822)\r\nRasbora daniconius (Hamilton, 1822)\r\nRasbora bonensis (Hamilton, 1822)\r\nRasbora rasbora (Hamilton, 1822)\r\nLabeo gonius (Hamilton, 1822)\r\nDanio devario (Hamilton, 1822)\r\nLabeo calbasu (Hamilton, 1822)\r\nCirrhinus cirrhosus (Bloch, 1795)\r\nAmbiypharyngodon mola (Hamilton, 1822)\r\n\r\nPuntius sophore (Hamilton, 1822)\r\nPethia conchonia (Hamilton, 1822)\r\nPethia ticto (Hamilton, 1822)\r\nLabeo rohita (Hamilton, 1822)\r\n Labeo dero (Hamilton, 1822)\r\n Labeo dyocheilus (McClelland, 1839)\r\nBarilius tileo (Hamilton, 1822)\r\nRasbora elanga (Hamilton, 1822)\r\nLabeo nandina (Hamilton, 1822)\r\nCirrhinus reba (Hamilton, 1822)\r\nCyprinus carpio (Linnaeus, 1758)\r\nCtenopharyngodon idella (Valenciennes, 1844)\r\nHypophthalmichthys molitrix (Valenciennes, 1844) \r\nHypophthalmichthys nobilis (J. Richardson, 1845)\r\n) Order: Osteoglossiformes (1 family, 2spp) \r\nFamily: Notopteridae (2 spp)\r\nChitala chitala (Hamilton, 1822))\r\nNotopterus notopterus (Pallas, 1769)\r\n\r\n5) Order: Perciformes (8 families, 10spp) \r\nFamily: Ambassidae (1 sp)\r\nChanda nama (Hamilton, 1822)\r\nFamily: Anabantidae (1 sp)\r\nAnabas testudineus (Bloch, 1792)\r\nFamily: Belontiidae (1 sp)\r\nColisa fasciata (Bloch and Schneider, 1801)\r\nFamily: Channidae (3 spp)\r\nChanna barca (Hamilton, 1822)\r\nChanna marulius (Hamilton, 1822)\r\n6) Order: Siluriformes (5 families, 15spp)\r\nFamily: Bagridae (6 spp)\r\nRita rita (Hamilton, 1822)\r\nAorichthys seenghala (Sykes, 1841)\r\nSperata aor (Hamilton, 1822)\r\nHemibagrus menoda (Hamilton, 1822)\r\nMystus tengara (Hamilton, 1822)\r\nMystus vittatus (Bloch , 1794)\r\nFamily: Clariidae (2 spp)\r\nClarias magur (Hamilton, 1822)\r\nClarias magur (Common name: Thailand magur)\r\nFamily: Schilbeidae (2 spp)\r\nAilia coila (Hamilton, 1822)\r\nClupisoma garua (Hamilton, 1822)\r\nFamily: Siluridae (4 spp)\r\nWallago attu (Bloch & J. G. Schneider, 1801)\r\nOmpok pabo (Hamilton, 1822)\r\nOmpok pabda (Hamilton, 1822)\r\nOmpok bimaculatus (Bloch , 1794)\r\nFamily: Heteropneustedae (1 sp)\r\nHeteropneustus fossilis (Bloch , 1794)\r\n\r\n7) Order: Synbranchiformes (1 family, 3 spp)\r\nFamily: Mastacembelidae (3 spp)\r\nMastacembalus armatus armatus (Lacepède, 1800)\r\nMacrognathus aral (Bloch and Schneider, 1801)\r\nAmphipnous cuchia (Hamilton, 1822))\r\n\r\n8) Order: Tetradontiformes (1 family, 1sp)\r\nFamily: Tetradontidae (1sp)\r\nTetradon kutkutia (Hamilton, 1822). \r\nChanna punctatus (Bloch, 1792)\r\nFamily: Cichlidae (1 sp)\r\nOreochromis mossambica (Peters)\r\nFamily: Gobiidae (1 sp)\r\nGlossogobius giuris (Hamilton, 1822)\r\nFamily: Nandidae (1 sp)\r\nNandus nandus (Hamilton, 1822)\r\nFamily: Osphronemidae (1 sp)\r\nCtenops nobilis (McClelland, 1845)\r\n\r\nCypriniformes is the most dominant group throughout the river (29 species) and Cyprinidae is the most species rich family (26 species). Puntius sophore is the most dominant species in kukurmara and kulsi village whereas Wallago attu density is highest at nagarbera. Nagarbera harbor mainly large fishes, in turn in kukurmara small fish population is abundant.\r\nEffect of Anthropogenic stress on the river\r\nIt is said that wetlands are more precious than trees to maintain global warming. \r\n\r\nThese are the heart of rivers. Kulsi is surrounded by a number of wetlands viz. Kulsi, Dorabeel, Kukurmara, Salsola, Barpith, Baweli, Chandubi etc which are now at deteriorating state.\r\nThe nearby fishers do some plantation like paddy, banana, areca-nuts, vegetables etc. to live life. As the neighboring area is a flood prone area hence paddy cultivation is not profitable. With the emergence of Chinese cultivation, problem is solved to some extent. But it affects the river. Again, one of the characteristic features of the river is water level of the river fluctuates depending mainly on rainfall in Meghalaya, not that of Assam.\r\nMoreover, another major anthropogenic stress is industrialization. Hand some of people set up industry in the nearby wetlands e.g. brick industry in kukurmara ghat, on dora beel about 200 bigha land is occupied to construct a distillery industry. This physical habitat loss/degradation is one of the threats to indigenous fish diversity. \r\nHeavy sand mining is also affecting the river resource a lot. In Kulsi River, as depth is low, hence sand mining up to a limit is necessary. But mining above threshold value stressed thereby population. Henceforth, it is beneficial and at the same time limiting factor for conservation and biodiversity. \r\nOther threats are over exploitation, siltation (God & Goddess of Durga puja are thrown in the Kulsi River), destruction of outlet (gumi-cut) etc. Moreover, other anthropogenic stresses are over fishing, entry of exotic species, ignorance of fishermen etc. While the eco-tourism venture is gaining momentum at various potential sites of the fishes, in turn in kukurmara small fish population is abundant. This may be due to over fishing at kukurmara. Over fishing is also going on at nagarbera. But area of nagarbera is much larger in comparison to fishing community. Hence nagarbera is not affected. The highest numbers of varieties were obtained at Nagarbera (63 species). People of Nagarbera also used maximum varieties of fishing gears. As the abundance of fish is high, hand pricking of fish is also done and proved as a fruitful method. Various netting operation is done throughout the river. The main gears used are hook, line, net (Cast net, Gill net etc) Bamboo basket, Bamboo trap, duruk, dingora, chalani, etc. Nets are known among the local community as asra jal, lungi jal, jata jal, ghoka jal, mohori jal, boital, etc.\r\nKulsi river which is blessed with enormous tourism prospects, but yet to be fully exploited. Of the 72-km stretch from Ghoramara to Nagarbera, the downstream confluences of two wetlands – Sal and Beeldora posses highest fish density coupled with adequate depth of the river. In addition to these, now ‘Kulsi multipurpose project’ is proposed to have a 42 m high dam with installed capacity of 29 MW by Brahmaputra board, ministry of water resource. The Kulsi Multipurpose Project envisages construction of an earthen dam across the river Kulsi at about 1.5 km down stream of Umkium village in Assam. This dam construction will destroy all the resources including dolphin and fish of the river.\r\n\r\nConservation \r\nMaintaining ichthyodiversity is too essential as it is not always possible to identify which individual species are critical to aquatic ecosystem’s sustainability. Conservation programmes catalize fish production to be more sustainable and also maintain diversity. Diversity facilitates production by full utilization of the resource, encourage recovery from disturbance as well as decrease disease problem. Conservation may be practiced as in-situ or ex-situ. Govt of Assam if declare this area as a wildlife sanctuary for the conservation of dolphins that will be a great step conserve the recourses available on the river. On the other hand, dam construction will lead to the reverse situation. We have organized three awareness programmes to aware the people about the status of various fish species as well as that of dolphin and also to evoke the sense of people about the present ecological condition. \r\n\r\nDISCUSSION\r\nThough Kulsi river harbor various fish species in addition with Ganges river dolphin, Platanista gangetica (Roxburgh), but the society is not aware enough about it. Jayachandran et al. describes that the ecology of the river consisted of temperature fluctuating widely from 15 to 28 1C, depth from 0.8 to 10 m, turbidity of 11–19 cm, sand mining @ 12,500MT annually, and fish catch of 300–800 kg (from 1.5km area). All these factors pose a great threat to the fish and prawn wealth of the river (Jayachandran et al., 2006). Biswas & Baruah (2000) investigated the habitat ecology of the Gangetic dolphin in the Brahmaputra river stretch within Eastern Assam and Bairagi (1999) reported the impact of the oil bait fishery on the dolphins of Brahmaputra River.\r\n','Chandasudha Goswami and Sayad Ali (2012). Ichthyofaunal Diversity of Kulsi River: Prime habitat of Dolphin.Biological Forum – An International Journal 4(2): 38-44.'),(4537,'124','Biodiversity of Endophytic Mycorrhiza in Some Ornamental Flowering Plants of Solan, Himachal Pradesh','Aditya Kumar, Sayeeda Kousar Bhatti and Ashok Aggarwal\r\n','10 DR ADITYA.pdf','',1,'Arbuscular mycorrhizae (AM) are the important mutualistic symbionts of the soil edaphon in most agro-ecosystems. The present experiment was conducted in 2011-2012 to investigate the AM fungal status (AM root colonization, AM spore count and AM diversity) of fifteen ornamental flowering plants. AM root colonization ranged from 14.28 ±2.08 to 100.00 ± 0.0 percent and AM spores in the rhizospheric soil of different ornamental plants also varied significantly. Maximum AM root colonization and spore count was observed in Senecio cineraria (100.00 ± 0.0) and Gladiolus grandiflorus (172.00 ±4.35) respectively. Twenty three different species of AM fungi belonging to five genera i.e. Glomus, Acaulospora, Sclerocystis, Gigaspora and Entrophospora were reported. Glomus was reported to be dominant genera followed by Acaulospora. The study confirmed that biodiversity of arbuscular mycorrhizal fungi differ in different plant species. ','Arbuscular mycorrhizae, Biodiversity, Ornamental flowering plants, Glomus, Acaulospora','Arbuscular mycorrhizae (AM) are the important mutualistic symbionts of the soil edaphon in most agro-ecosystems. The present experiment was conducted in 2011-2012 to investigate the AM fungal status (AM root colonization, AM spore count and AM diversity) of fifteen ornamental flowering plants. AM root colonization ranged from 14.28 ±2.08 to 100.00 ± 0.0 percent and AM spores in the rhizospheric soil of different ornamental plants also varied significantly. Maximum AM root colonization and spore count was observed in Senecio cineraria (100.00 ± 0.0) and Gladiolus grandiflorus (172.00 ±4.35) respectively. Twenty three different species of AM fungi belonging to five genera i.e. Glomus, Acaulospora, Sclerocystis, Gigaspora and Entrophospora were reported. Glomus was reported to be dominant genera followed by Acaulospora. The study confirmed that biodiversity of arbuscular mycorrhizal fungi differ in different plant species. ','INTRODUCTION\r\nSince the beginning of life, plants have served humankind as source of fuel, food, clothing, shelter and medicine. Due to large demand of flowers, cultivation of ornamental plants has received an impetus in the recent years. So, the enhancement of growth and flowers production is desirable. Many new modern techniques, methods, strategies and plant associations have been put into use to improve the quantity and quality of plant resources. Microbial populations are key component of soil plant system where they are immense in a network of interactions affecting plant development. Mycorrhizal evolution is hypothesised to have progressed from endophytic to balanced symbiotic associations where both partners are interdependent due to the exchange of limiting resources (Brundrett, 2002). About 80% of all terrestrial plant species are known to be forming this type of symbiosis (Smith and Read, 1997). They play a role in shaping plant community structure by increasing the mineral supply to plants, improving water uptake and retention and thus drought tolerance (Lapointe and Molard, 1997). The efficient utilization of AM fungal diversity is of crucial importance in sustainable plant production systems. To preserve the precious ornamental plants, it is essential to know the community of AM fungi in their rhizosphere soil. Therefore, the present work was aimed at understanding the diversity and species richness of AM fungi associated with ornamental plants of Solan. \r\nMATERIAL AND METHODS\r\nStudy site: The study was undertaken at different sites located in Solan district, Himachal Pradesh. Solan is located at 30.920 N, 77.120 E and have a geographical area is 1936 Sq.Km. The climate of the area is generally sub- temperate, semi- humid characterized by cold winter with mild summer and moderate rainfall. \r\nCollection of soil samples: Soil samples along with secondary and tertiary roots of three individuals for fifteen ornamental plants were collected during course of investigation from 2011-2012. The samples of each plant were collected for further processing for the isolation of AM spores and studying mycorrhizal root colonization. \r\nIsolation and quantification of AM spores: AM spores were isolated by using \'Wet Sieving and Decanting Technique of Gerdemann and Nicolson (1963) and quantified by ‘Grid Line Intersect Method’ (Adholeya and Gaur, 1994). The photography of the counted spores was taken with the help of Nikon coolpix S6200 with an adapter tube.\r\nIdentification of AM fungi: Following criteria were used for the identification of AM spores i.e. colour, size, shape, wall structure, surface ornamentation of spores, size of hyphae, bulbous suspensor, number and arrangements of the spores in the sporocarps. \r\n\r\nThese AM spores were identified by using the key of Walker (1986), Scheneck and Perez (1990), Morton and Benny (1990), Mukerji (1996), Morton and Redecker (2001), Sharma et al. (2008) and Kumar et al. (2009). \r\nAM root colonization: Root colonization was studied by “Rapid Clearing and Staining Method” of Philips and Hayman (1970). The percentage of mycorrhizal root colonization was calculated by following formula;\r\n \r\n \r\n\r\n No. of root segments infected \r\n % age root colonization = × 100 \r\n Total no. of root segments studied\r\n\r\n \r\nRESULTS AND DISCUSSION\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\nAmong the different types of mycorrhizae, arbuscular mycorrhizal fungi has gained much importance in the field of horticulture. Several symbiotic groups, phosphorous solubilizers, plant growth promoters and other such beneficial micro-organisms are reported from different soils. AM fungi form an important ecological and economical group of soil fungi that develop symbiotic associations with the vast majority of plant families.\r\n In the present investigation, biodiversity of AM fungi (AM root colonization, AM spore and AM diversity) associated with fifteen ornamental flowering plants were studied. In case of AM root colonization, root samples of all the fifteen plants showed a wide range of variation as shown in Table 1 Differences among hosts were observed in the amount of hyphae, arbuscules and vesicles produced by the fungi which could be attributed to growth and development characteristics among hosts and AM fungi. The mycorrhizal structure present in roots included mycelium, vesicles and arbuscules. Various types of mycelia like Y- shaped, H- shaped, coiled and parallel mycelia were observed in the roots of different plants. Extensive mycelial growth was also observed in some root samples. Different types of vesicles like rounded, oval, beaked, elliptical and elongated were observed (Plate-I). It is evident from the results that both vesicles and arbuscules type of colonization was reported in six plants species and mycelium was reported in all the plants. The plant species that belonged to the families Iridaceae, Malvaceae, Solanaceae and Asteraceae only showed the presence of vesicles while arbuscules were absent. Likewise, in plants namely Dahlia variabilis, Jacobinea carnea and Nerium indicum only showed arbuscules and vesicles were absent. In Hydrangea paniculata and Rosa indica it was observed that both vesicles and arbuscules were absent (Table 1). AMF root colonization ranged from 14.28 ± 2.08 to 100.00 ± 0.0 percent. It is envisaged from the result (Table 1) that maximum AMF root colonization was found in Senecio cineraria ((100.00 ± 0.0) and the least was observed in Jacobinea carnea (14.28 ± 2.08). Similarly, Rosa indica (94.44 ± 9.62), Catharanthus roseus (91.07±7.78), Dahlia variabilis (88.88± 9.62), Nerium indicum (79.16± 7.21) and Hydrangea paniculata (75.00± 12.5) were found to have high AM root colonization as shown in Table 1. The result also indicated that mycorrhizal infection varied within the same family. In family Asteraceae, Dahlia variabilis (88.88± 9.62), Tagetes patula (66.68±8.26), Aster amellus (60.31±5.49) and Crysanthemum leucanthemum (43.45± 6.27) showed varied degree of mycorrhization. Similar was the observation made in families like Apocynaceae where Catharanthus roseus (91.07± 7.78) and Nerium indicum (79.16 ± 7.21) showed a difference in AM root colonization. AM infection improves plant survival and growth by enhancing the root\'s ability to absorb moisture, macro and micro-nutrients from the soil. Survey of arbuscular mycorrhizal fungi has been carried out in different parts of world from time to time, vesicular arbuscular mycorrhizal fungi has the potential to influence the ecosystem processes, thereby determine the plant communities and its ability to induce a wide variety of growth responses in coexisting plant species (Klironomos et al., 2000).\r\n \r\n\r\n X = Present - = absent \r\nType of AM fungi: 1. Acaulospora bireticulata 2. A.lacunosa 3. A.laevis 4. A.rehmii 5. A.spinosa 6. A.trappei 7. Entrophosphora infrequens 8. Gigaspora gigantea 9. G.nigra 10. Glomus constrictum11. G.deserticola 12. G. fasciculatum 13. G.indica 14. G.aggregatum 15. G.microcarpum 16. G.mosseae 17. G.fuegianum 18. G.pallidum 19. G.pansihalos 20. G.scintillans 21. Sclerocystis ceremoides 22. S.duscii 23. S.sinuosa. \r\n\r\n \r\nThe data presented in Table 2 showed that the population of AM spore in the rhizosphere soil of different ornamental plants varied significantly. The density of AM spore varied from 57.66 ±3.21 to 172.00 ± 4.35. The maximum number of AM spore population was recorded in the rhizospheric soil of Gladiolus grandiflorus (172.00 ±4.35) and it was followed by Crysanthemum leucanthemum (124.00±2.64), Nerium indicum (122.33± 3.05), Salvia splendens (121.66 ± 6.11), Jacobinea carnea (112.66 ± 4.50), Rosa indica (104.00±3.60), Hydrangea paniculata (103.00 ±4.00) and Aster amellus (102.00±5.00). The minimum number of AM spore population was recorded in Lilium rubescens (57.66±3.21) and Catharanthus roseus (65.00± 3.60). Different AM spores isolated from the rhizosphere of studied ornamental flowering plants were identified to find out the species biodiversity and richness. A variety of spores were recovered from the rhizosphere of fifteen ornamental flowering plants (Table 2). It can be envisaged from Table 2 that twenty three different species of AM fungi belonging to five genera i.e. Glomus, Acaulospora, Sclerocystis, Gigaspora and Entrophospora were screened from rhizospheric soil of different plants. Glomus was found to be dominant genera (11 species) followed by Acaulospora (6 species), Sclerocystis (3 species), Gigaspora (2 species) and Entrophospora (1species). AM fungi belonging to genus Glomus were dominant and Entrophospora was rare. Among dfferent species of Acaulospora, the most abundant and most frequent species reported in different ornamental flowering plants was A.laevis (9) followed by A. bireticulata (4). Similarly, among Glomus species, G. mosseae was reported in eight plants followed by G. fasciculatum (7). In case of Gigaspora, Sclerocystis and Entrophospora, the more abundant species recognized in ornamental flowering plants were Gigaspora gigantea (7), Sclerocystis ceremoides (5) and Entrophosphora infrequence (4) respectively. Glomus sp. was found in all the plants. Gladiolus grandiflorus was the only plant with great abundance of mycorrhizal fungi and have all the five genera of AM fungi. Lilium rubescens and Rosa indica were found to be associated with four genera of AM fungi. Maximum numbers of species were reported from Lilium rubescens (8) and Rosa indica (7). Minimum numbers of species were recorded from Hydrangea paniculata (3), Jacobinea carnea (3) and Nerium indicum (3).\r\n From the above results it is clear that biodiversity of arbuscular mycorrhizal fungi differ in different plants. The extramatrical hyphae are more efficient in nutrient uptake than root hairs (Allen, 2007). In several studies, a high degree of AM root colonization shows high localized bioprotective effect whereas intermediate and low levels of AM root colonization showed very less bioprotective effect (Vierheilig, 2008). The variation in root colonization may be due to the exudation of toxic metabolites resulting in substances in proximity to the roots which attract the AM fungi such as production of easily oxidisable compounds resulting in increased colonization physiological difference between species (Albert and Sathianesan, 2009). The smaller diameter and the faster growth of hyphae \r\nthan of the roots permit the exploitation of soil particles with smaller pores and the surpassing of the nutritional depletion zone which appears around the rhizosphere (Smith and Read, 1997). Ornamental plants are often grown in soil amended with large quantities of composted organic matter and most of the amendments are known to enhance sporulation and root colonization by AM (Singh, 2000). The composition of the AM community may be strongly influenced by the host species through differential effects on hyphal growth and sporulation (Eom et al., 2000). It has also been shown that more than one fungal species can colonize roots of an individual plant in a natural ecosystem (Ahulu et al., 2007). Differences among hosts were observed in the amount of hyphae, arbuscules and vesicles produced by the fungi which could be attributed to growth and development characteristics among hosts and AM fungi (Kramnik et al., 2007). Recently, it was showed that AMF abundance, species richness and species diversity varied among different sampling sites, as some of the sites were irrigated and some were non irrigated (Kumar et al., 2012). Tejavathi et al. (2011) reported the positive correlation between percent mycorrhizal colonization and plant growth in Andrographis paniculata. Bargali (2011) claimed that the number of plants possessing vesicles are always higher than the plants bearing arbuscules. These results confirmed that the roots of majority of the plants colonized were mature as vesicles are storage organs and generally produced in older region of the infection. However, Zhang et al. (2012) also reported a varied degree of AM root colonization in ephemeral plants that range from 7% to 85%.\r\n Similarly, Kubato et al. (2005) also described that the morphology of AM type is the result of interaction between both the plant and fungal species. The increased level of mycorrhizal colonization caused by AM inoculum and higher phosphorus content in the leaves of Physocarpus opulifolius, Spiraea japonica and Potentilla fruticosa species did not correspond with higher biomass of plants (Bozena and Grzegorz, 2010). The observed high richness of Glomeromycota in the agricultural ecosystems indicates the need to obtain comparable descriptive soil fungal community data from a more diverse range of agricultural ecosystems. This unique richness of AMF could be speculatively attributed to the agro-climatic conditions and or type of host species (Kumar and Garampalli, 2012). \r\nArbuscular mycorrhizal fungi of the phylum Glomeromycota live in symbiosis with a majority of land plants. The AM fungi are well known to enhance the nutritional status of several ornamental flowering plants and thereby aid in increased growth and yield. This type of study could be the beginning of further research pursuits that will utilize such symbiotic fungi to manipulate the host in different ways. The management of their population in the soil is an essential tool for overall plant health in the present scenario of sustainable crop productivity. \r\n','Aditya Kumar, Sayeeda Kousar Bhatti and Ashok Aggarwal (2012). Biodiversity of Endophytic Mycorrhiza in Some Ornamental Flowering Plants of Solan, Himachal Pradesh.\r\n '),(4538,'124','Avian diversity of Singhori Wildlife Sanctuary, Raisen District, Madhya Pradesh','S.S. Talmale, M.E. Limje and S. Sambath','11 Dr SS TALMALE.pdf','',1,'The present paper is based on observations and sighting records of birds were taken from whole Singhori Wildlife Sanctuary, Raisen District of Madhya Pradesh, India including agricultural fields of those villages in and around sanctuary area. The avian diversity of the sanctuary includes 173 species of birds belonging to 16 Orders, 49 families and 9 subfamilies.','Singhori Wildlife Sanctuary, Madhya Pradesh, Avian diversity, Agricultural fields.','The present paper is based on observations and sighting records of birds were taken from whole Singhori Wildlife Sanctuary, Raisen District of Madhya Pradesh, India including agricultural fields of those villages in and around sanctuary area. The avian diversity of the sanctuary includes 173 species of birds belonging to 16 Orders, 49 families and 9 subfamilies.','Singhori Wildlife Sanctuary (SWLS) (Fig. 1) is situated in Bari Tehsil of Raisen district of Madhya Pradesh with headquarter at Bari which is situated on NH 12, 205 km away north from Jabalpur on the way to Bhopal. Geographically, the sanctuary spreads between 22° 45\' and 22° 55\' N latitudes and 77° 15\' and 78 0\' E longitudes. This WLS was created on 2nd July 1976 vide Govt. of Madhya Pradesh notification, with an area of 287.910 km2 (Dwivedi, 2003). The entire area of the SWLS is hilly and consists of hills, plateau, valleys, forges and at places plains. Most of the streams are seasonal. There are two main streams in the sanctuary i.e. Ghoghara and Barna. Bhadaria Kund in Ghoghara River is permanent water source for the wildlife. \r\nThere is a dam on Barna River which is a permanent water source for the animals as well as irrigation to the agriculture area. Backwater attracts resident as well as migratory wetland birds. The forests in the SWLS are of Tropical Dry deciduous with Teak forests and Tropical Mixed deciduous forests include Daora (Anogeissus latifolia), Bija (Pterocarpus marsupium), Salai (Boswellia serrata), Khair (Acacia catechu), Saja (Terminalia alata), Tendu (Diospyros melanoxylon) also occur Bamboo (Dendrocalamus strictus) (Champion and Seth, 1968). The area also includes small villages with agricultural fields in and around SWLS. Main crop of these fields is wheat and also pulses like Chick pea (Cicer arietinum Linnaeus), Peas (Pisum sativum Linnaeus), pigeon pea (Cajanus cajan (Linnaeus).\r\nSince Maries (1897), number of workers studied avifauna of Central India including Madhya Pradesh and Chhattisgarh. The comprehensive list of birds on Madhya Pradesh and Chhattisgarh published by Chandra and Singh (2004), reported 488 and 197 species respectively. Jayapal et al. (2005) reported some significant records of birds from Central Highlands of Madhya Pradesh. Ghosh et al. (2008) published detailed account, reports altogether 449 species from Madhya Pradesh (including Chhattisgarh). Avian fauna of protected areas of this area worked out by Newton et al.,1986 and Ghosal, 1995 (Kanha Tiger Reserve, 231 species), Rahamani, 1991(Karera Bustard Sanctuary, 258 species), Saha, 1995 (Indravati Tiger Reserve, 92 species), Sharma, 1995 ( Madhav National Park, 222 species), Pasha et al., 2004; Sen and Dungriyal, 2004 (Pench National Park, 319), Ramakrishna et al., 2006 (Satpuda National Park, 301 species; Van Vihar National Park, 146 species), Chakraborty, 2008 (Kangerghati National Park, 129 species, Guru Ghasidas National Park, 123 species and Sanjay National Park, 117 species), Chandra and Gupta, 2009 (Bandhavgarh Tiger Reserve, 252 species), Chandra and Mahabal, 2009 (Pachmarhi Biosphere Reserve, 255 species). \r\nThe faunal diversity of the SWLS is very rich. No authentic faunal record was available before the surveys of Zoological Survey of India. Some preliminary faunal reports published on the basis of observation and faunal collections were made by the survey parties. Talmale (2011) reported 26 species of odonates (Dragonflies and Damselflies). \r\nrecorded 26 species of dung beetles (Scarabaeidae) from the sanctuary. Since there is no published bird checklist prior to this, the present work can form the baseline for further research. \r\nThe present paper includes 173 species of birds belonging to 16 Orders, 49 families & 9 subfamilies from SWLS (Table 1). Further extensive surveys of this area will undoubtedly reveal the existence of many more species than what is known today.\r\n\r\nMATERIAL AND METHODS\r\nSix faunistic surveys of Singhori Wildlife Sanctuary, Raisen district, Madhya Pradesh have been conducted by scientist of ZSI, CZRC during April, 2009 to March, 2012. The sanctuary area having small villages like Bajani, Bamhori, Belgaon, Bhagdehi, Bhajiya, Jaitgadh, Kartoli, Kesali, Kukwara, Panzirpa, Papalai, Pondri, Ramgadha, Rampura, Ratanpur, Senkua, Sitapar and Siyalwada inside as well as in the periphery were also surveyed. Village Pondri is at highest elevation of 1801 ft above sea level. Observations and sighting records of birds were taken from whole sanctuary including agricultural fields of these villages in and around sanctuary area. Surveys were done four wheel vehicle driving on temporary roads going through these agricultural fields. Backwater of Barna River dam was also surveyed which is on the periphery of West of SWLS. A pair of Binoculars (10 x 50), Digital Camera (Nikon D70) and GPS (Garmin) were used for observations, photography as well as location record respectively. Ali and Ripley (1995, 1996), Grimmett et al (2000) were used for field identification and residential status. Arrangement of the species with common name given in the Table 1 are as per Mankandan and Pittie (2001). Abbreviations used in Table 1 for residential status: R- Resident; LM-Local Migrant; MV: Mansoon Visitor; PM: Passage Migrant; WV-Winter Visitor. \r\n \r\nAbundance of the bird species is reported on the basis of species encountered in the sanctuary. Abundance of birds was classified as : VC- Very Common (Seen very commonly in most of the visited areas ); C- Common (Seen commonly in the study areas); NR-Not Rare (Seen many times but not common); RA-Rare (Seen only once or twice). On the basis of observations taken (only two surveys : December, 2010 and February, 2012) of birds visiting agricultural fields, a preliminary list of birds (55 species) is prepared (Fig. 3; Table 1, *Marked Asterisks).\r\nRESULTS AND DISCUSSION\r\n A list of 173 bird species (Table 1) reported from Singhori Wildlife Sanctuary, Raisen District shown that order Passeriformes is very rich with 68 species and Ciconiiformes and Anseriformes with 17 and 14 species respectively (Fig. 2). Most of bird fauna are resident or local migratory to sanctuary area. Abundance of birds show that 32 species are very common, 97 are common, 35 are not rare and 9 are rarely observed to Singhori Wildlife Sanctuary area. \r\n','S.S. Talmale, M.E. Limje and S. Sambath (2012). Avian diversity of Singhori Wildlife Sanctuary, Raisen District, Madhya Pradesh .Biological Forum – An International Journal 4(2): 52-61.'),(4539,'124','Phytochemical Studies on Myristica fragrance Essential Oil','Reena Saxena and Pramod Patil','12 REENA SAXENA.pdf','',1,'In the present study of phytochemical screening of the seed extract of Myristica fragrance essential oil using standard method of photochemical analysis. The solvents used for extraction of essential oil were methanol, dichloromethane, hexane and chloroform. The preliminary phytochemical investigation showed that Myristica fragrance essential oil to contain some secondary metabolites such as of alkaloids, steroids, tannins, flavonoids, phenolics and glycosides. The result justified the use of plant in medicine to treat various infectious diseases. ','Phytochemical, Myristica fragrance, Plant, Essential oil, Solvent.','Phytochemical analysis showed the presence of effective biological compound like alkaloids, steroids, tannins, flavonoids, phenolics, glycosides in Myristica fragrance essential oil thus providing knowledge of the phytochemical metabolites. However, the present investigation showed that most of the studied plants are potentially a good source of traditional medicine.','Higher and aromatic plants have been used traditionally in folk medicine as well as to extend the shelf life of foods, showing inhibition against bacteria, fungi and yeasts. Biologically active compounds from natural sources have always been a great interest for scientists working on infectious diseases (Perumal, 2000).\r\nThe essential oils known as volatile oils evaporate in contact with air and possess a pleasant fragrance. Chemically the essential oils are very complex. They are found in many different species of plants of various families. All aromatic plants contain essential oils. Generally the oils are secreted in oils glands (Yousef, 1980).\r\nWorld health organization (WHO) more than 80% of the world population relies on traditional medicine for their primary health care needs.The medicinal value of plants in some chemical substance that produce a definite physiologic action on the human body (Theis, 2003). The most important of these bioactive compounds of plants are alkaloids, flavonoids, tannins, phenolics, glycosides, steroids etc. compound.The phytochemical research based on ethnopharmacological information is generally considered on effective approach in the discovery of new anti infective agents from higher plants. (Gundidza et al., 2009)\r\nThe most common commercial species is Myristica fragrance an evergreen tree indigenous to the Banda Island. The Myristica fragrance oil is used heavily in the perfumery and pharmaceutical industries.The oil is colourless or light yellow it contain numerous components of interest to the oleochemical industry and is used as a natural food flavorings in baked good, syrups, beverages and sweets. In traditional medicine nutmeg and nutmeg oil were used for illnesses related to the nervous and digestive system. (Jaiswal, 2009). \r\nIn present study is based on the different solvents of seed extract of Myristica fragrance were subjected to for preliminary phytochemical screening the presence of different secondary metabolites such as alkaloids, steroids, phenolics, tannins, glycosides, saponins,flavonoids.\r\nMATERIAL AND METHODS\r\nPlant material: Fresh seed of Myristica fragrance was collected from Bhopal. Plant sample was washed and shade dried at room temperature. The dried and ground plant part extracted with different solvents (hexane, dichloromethane, methanol and chloroform) by steam distillation.\r\nExtraction of essential oil: Raw plant material consists of seeds are put into distillation apparatus using Soxhlet apparatus. Weight of plant material was taken before loading in the Soxhlet apparatus and water is heated so that the steam passes through the plant material vaporizing the volatile compounds. The vapour flows through a coil where they condense back to liquid which is then collected in the receiving vessel.\r\nPhytochemical Analysis: Phytochemical analysis for major phytoconstituents of the plant extract was undertaken using standard qualitative methods as described by Rizk and Bashir (1980), Harbrone (1973). The plant extract were screened for the presence of biologically active compounds like alkaloids, steroids, tannins, flavonoids, saponins, glycosides and phenolics.\r\nIdentification test: The tests were done to find the presence of the active chemical constituents such as glycosides, phenolics, alkaloids, tannins, flavonoids, saponins and steroids by the following procedure. \r\nTest for alkaloids: 2ml filtrate was mixed with 2ml of HCl and about 6 drops of Mayor’s reagents. A creamish or pale yellow precipitate indicated the presence of alkaloids.\r\nTest for steroids: 1ml of the solvent extract was dissolved in 2 ml of acetic anhydride was added to 2 ml of H2SO4. The color changed from violet to blue or green in some samples indicating the presence of steroids. \r\nTest for tannins: 1 ml of the solvent extract was treated with few drops of 1% ferric chloride and observed for brownish green or a blue-black coloration. \r\nTest for flavonoids: 4ml of filtrate was added to 5-6 drops of conc. HCl and1.5 ml of methanol \r\nsolution. Pink-tomato red color indicated the presence of flavonoids. \r\n Test for glycosides: Mix 2 ml solvent extract with 2 ml chloroform. Add 2 ml acetic anhydride and 2 drop Conc. H2SO4 from the side of test tube. First red, then blue and finally green color appears. \r\nTest for Phenolics: 2ml ethanol was added to the test solution and few drops of ferric chloride solution. Blue coloration indicates the presence of phenolics. \r\nTest for saponins: Froth test for saponins was used. 2ml of distilled water was added to 2ml of the test solution and shaked well and observed for forthing. \r\nRESULTS AND DISCUSSION\r\nPhytochemical screening of seed extracts: The preliminary phytochemical screening of the seed extract using different solvents was reported (Table 1).\r\n \r\n Data presented in the table 1 showed results of methanol solvent seed extract of Myristica fragrance essential oil showed the presence of alkaloids, steroids and glycosides. The dichloromethane solvent seed extract of Myristica fragrance essential oil showed the presence of steroids, tannins and phenolics. The hexane solvent seed extract of Myristica fragrance essential oil was found to have steroids, tannins and flavonoids. The chloroform solvent seed extract of Myristica fragrance essential oil was observed for the presence of alkaloids and tannins.\r\nPhytochemical is a natural bioactive compound found in plants such as vegetables, fruits, medicinal plants, flowers, leaves and roots that work with nutrients and fibers to act as an defense system against disease or more accurately, to protect against disease. Photochemical are divided into two groups which are primary and secondary constituents; according to their functions in plant metabolism. Primary constituents comprise common sugars, amino acids, proteins and chlorophyll while secondary constituents consists of alkaloids, terpenoids and phenolic compounds (Krishnaiah et al., 2007) and many more such as flavonoids, tannins and so on.\r\nThe potential of higher plants as source for new drugs is still largely unexplored. Among the estimated 250,000-500,000 plant species only a smaller percentage has been investigated phytochemically and the fraction submitted to biological or pharmacological screening as tool in discovering new biologically active molecule has been most protective in the area of antibiotics (Kroschwitz et al., 1992). \r\nMany medicinal plants have been found effective in the cure of bacterial diseases. Due to increasing antibiotic resistance in microorganisms and side effect of synthetic antibiotics medicinal plants are now gaining popularity in the treatment of bacterial infection. Medicinal plants are considered as clinically effective and safer alternative to the synthetic antibiotics (Pandy, 2010). \r\nAs plants and their products are known to posses various secondary metabolites and also posses several lead phytochemical constituents such as alkaloids, steroids, tannins, flavonoids, saponins, phenolics and glycosides were identified from the plants. Plants based natural constituents can be derived from any part of the plants like bark, leaves, flowers, roots, seed etc. The use of plant plants extracts and phytochemical both with known antimicrobial properties can be of great significance in therapeutic treatments.\r\nNutmeg is a small package with several big benefits. It’s used for prevention and healing of many known conditions. Here are some most common uses of nutmeg:\r\nMedically, nutmeg has strong antibacterial properties. It is effective in killing a number of cavity-causing bacteria in the mouth. Like cloves; nutmeg contains eugenol, a compound that may benefit the heart. Myristicin found in nutmeg has been shown to inhibit an enzyme in the brain that contributes to Alzheimer’s disease and is used to improve memory. It is used in small dosages to reduce flatulence [excessive stomach or intestinal gas], aid digestion and improve appetite. Nutmeg can help to combat asthma. It is also used to relax muscles. Nutmeg contains 10 per cent essential oil which is a colourless or light yellow liquid. The oil is obtained by the steam distillation of ground nutmeg. Besides being used in toothpastes, cough syrups, perfumes and cosmetic industry, externally Nutmeg oil is mixed with almond oil and is used to relieve rheumatic pain. \r\nNutmeg oil is used to treat toothaches. Drops of essential oil are put on cotton swab and applied to the gums around an aching tooth, sometimes also used to control bad breath. Drops of nutmeg oil can also be mixed with honey to treat nausea, gastroenteritis, chronic, diarrhoea and indigestion. In homoeopathy, nutmeg is used to treat anxiety and depression. In Chinese medicine, it is used to treat impotence and liver disease.\r\nEssential oils have been found useful in the various infectious diseases. Essential oils are rich source of antimicrobial agent. The therapeutic use of essential oils is becoming popular because of their lesser side effects and low resistance in microorganisms. In present study showed that the Myristica fragrance essential oil scientifically which have been used in traditional medicine to improve the quality of healthcare.\r\n','Reena Saxena and Pramod Patil (2012). Phytochemical Studies on Myristica fragrance Essential Oil .Biological Forum – An International Journal 4(2): 62-64..'),(4540,'124','Statistical Studies on Drinking Water Quality of Datia City, (M.P.)','Shiv Singh, Asha Mathur, R. Mathur and V.I. Sharma','13 DR SHIV SINGH DATIA.pdf','',1,'The water quality of different sources of water viz. hand pump, wells, bore wells and taps of urban areas of Datia (M.P.) was studied. The results of Physico-chemical analysis for pH, electrical conductivity, T.S., T.D.S., T.S.S, T. H, T.A. NO3, Cl, SO4, Na, and K of 27 water samples collected from 10 wards of municipal area of Datia city are presented. The present study assessed the Water Quality Index (WQI) of Datia city to find out the impact of industrial and human activities. Physicochemical parameters were subjected to calculation of WQI for the winter, summer and rainy seasons. The correlation coefficients were calculated for water quality assessment.','Datia Urban area, Physico-chemical characteristics, Drinking Water Quality Index (WQI), Correlation coefficient. ','The above observations in the present study indicate higher values of some parameters of the samples. They minimize the suitability of these sources for drinking purposes without treatment. But, after the filtration and disinfection, naturally present impurities can be removed, which may enhance its suitability for drinking\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\n and domestic purposes. People depend on this water are often prone to health hazards due to polluted drinking water, therefore, some effective measures are urgently required to enhance the drinking water quality by delineating an effective water quality management plan for Datia City (M.P.).\r\n','Ground water is a good source of fresh water. It is the important renewable resource having several inherent advantages over surface water. This potential source of water is economical essential component of our life, but it is getting deteriorated in major cities and urban centers due to pollution caused by population explosion, urbanization and industrialization. Chemical quality of the surface and ground water is of paramount importance in its utilization for municipal and industrial uses as it is a universal solvent which dissolves almost everything that comes in its contact. \r\nSince, water is valuable natural resource it is important that its quality be maintained for being used by the people and the industry, and consideration should be given to recycle it to the maximum extent. The mineral impurities in water include principally the Chlorides, Nitrate, Fluoride, and Iron. The water samples in the present study were analyzed for major cations, i.e. total dissolved solids (T.D.S.), electrical conductivity (E.C.), total hardness and pH as ground water is generally used for drinking, domestic and agricultural purposes. The present study attempts to evaluate the quality of ground water in urban area of District Datia, (M.P.) \r\n\r\nStudy area: The district is situated in the north part of M.P. and is located between the latitudes 250 28’N and 280 20’ N and longitudes of 780 10’, E and 780 45’ E, and Total geographical area 2691 Sq Km. and the major part of the study area is covered with the sand stone rocky quartzite and granite stone types of soil.\r\n\r\nMATERIAL AND METHOD\r\n Drinking water samples from 27 different locations of Datia city were collected every season in the year 2009. Sample ware collected in clean two litre plastic bottles. Chemical characteristics were determined by the standard methods (APHA 1989). Water quality index (WQI) and coefficient of variation are the two statistical parameters considered for variability measurement among the parameters. The correlation coefficient (r) was calculated between each pair of parameters using experimental data given in Table 6, 7 and 8. \r\nWater Quality Index (WQI): The concept of indices to represent gradation in water quality was first proposed [8] It indicates the quality by an index number, which represents the overall quality of water for any intended use. It is defined as a rating reflecting the composite influence of different water quality parameters on the overall quality of water [5, 7, 10]. The WQI has been calculated from the point of view of the suitability of water for human consumption.\r\n\r\n(a) WQI Calculation : For calculation of WQI, selection of parameters has great importance. Since selection of too many parameters might make the results obscure and the water quality index, and the importance of various parameters depends on the intended use of water, eight physicochemical parameters, namely pH, TS, TDS, TSS, EC, total alkalinity, magnesium, calcium, total hardness, chloride, sulphate, were used to calculate the WQI. The calculation of WQI was made using a weighted arithmetic index method given below [3] in the following steps.\r\nCalculation of sub index of quality rating (qn) : Let there be n water quality parameters where the quality rating or sub index (qn) corresponding to the nth parameter is a number reflecting the relative value of this parameter in the polluted water with respect to its standard permissible value. The value of qn is calculated using the following expression.\r\nqn = 100[(Vn - Vio) / (Sn - Vio)] …(1)\r\n\r\nWhere, qn = quality rating for the nth water quality parameter, Vn = estimated value of the nth parameter at a given sampling station, Sn = standard permissible value of nth parameter, Vio = ideal value of nth parameter in pure water.\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\nCalculation of unit weight (Wn) : Calculation of unit weight (Wn) for various water quality parameters are inversely proportional to the recommended standards for the corresponding parameters.\r\n\r\nWn = K/Sn …(2)\r\nWhere Wn = unit weight for nth parameter, Sn = standard value for nth parameters, K = proportionality constant.\r\n\r\nCalculation of WQI: WQI is calculated from the following equation -\r\nRESULTS AND DISCUSSION\r\nThe pH values of all the sample was in the range of 7.35 to 8.4, which indicates the desirable limits. Electrical Conductivity of water samples varied from 396 to 2178.40, 119.0 to 2942.4 and 406.25 to 1714.6 µmho/cm. in winter, summer and rainy seasons respectively, but samples 18, 5 and 19 had relatively higher conductivity in winter, summer and rainy seasons, which may be due to contamination of conducting material in water samples. Total dissolved solids varied from 182 to 2369 mg l-1. These values were the lowest in the winter season, 620 mg l-1 in rainy season, but sample 16 (ward no.06) had relatively higher total alkalinity in rainy season (maximum permissible limit BIS 600 mg l-1). \r\nTotal hardness levels varied from 90 to 521 mg l-1. The BIS desirable limit for total hardness is 300 mg l-1 and permissible limit 600 mg l-1 but only 13, 09 and 13 samples showed the values below the permissible limit in winter, summer and rainy seasons. The leaching of calcium and magnesium rich minerals from rocks and other deposits like limestone, gypsum and clay minerals possibly contributed to total hardness. Sewage and domestic wastes may also be contributing to total hardness in ground water. Calcium determination is usually required for potability of water. Its values varied from 80 to 410 mg l-1 (BIS desirable value 75 mg l-1 and permissible limit of 200 mg l-1). Magnesium is an essential element for human being. Its desirable limit is 30 mg l-1 (BIS 1992). However, at higher levels, magnesium salts have a laxative effect. In the present study, magnesium values varied from 2.43 to 72.9 mg l-1. \r\nChloride is one of the important parameters to adjudge water quality. High chloride content causes cardiovascular problem, gives a bitter taste to water, corrodes steel and affects the solidity and strength of concrete. The study showed chloride values ranging from 45.5 to 423.9 mg l-1. The value was within the permissible limit of 250 mg l-1 for 26, 23 and 23 samples in winter, summer and rainy seasons (BIS 1992). \r\nSodium is commonly present in water and its concentration in unpolluted water is less than that of calcium or magnesium. The concentration of sodium (9.6 to 481.2 mg l-1) was below the BIS permissible limit (200 mg l-1). Potassium is a naturally occurring element. Its concentration (6.3 to 102.5 mg l-1) is however, usually quite lower than that of sodium, calcium and magnesium (BIS permissible limit 12 mg l-1). Thus, the excess amount of potassium present in the water sample may lead to nervous and digestive disorders [11]. \r\nHigh amount of sulphate imparts bitter taste to the sample 9 and 10 in summer and rainy seasons. Also, this may cause laxative effect in children in hot weather climates [6]. Nitrate in food may cause methemoglobinemia in babies [10], cancer of the colon, rectum or other gastrointestinal cancer [4, 13], Alzeimer’s disease, vascular dementia of Biswanger type or multiple small infarct type [12]. All samples have nitrate concentration below permissible limit BIS (45 mg l-1).\r\n\r\nStatistical Analysis \r\nCorrelation Coefficient Analysis: Sources of measured parameters in groundwater were examined through the analysis of linear correlation [10]. The correlation metric for all samples are given in Table 5. We considered the correlation as good if r>0.6 and marginal of 0.47< r <0.6 Table 06, 07, & 08. The high positively correlated values were found between TS and EC (0.984, 0.955 and 0.991), TDS and EC (0.974, 0.923 and 0.975), TDS and TS (0.989, 0.815 and 0.986 ), TSS and TS (0.731, 0.505 and 0.788), TH and Mg (0.808, 0.558 and 0.850), TH and Ca (0.747, 0.551 and 0.780) winter, summer and rainy seasons, TSS and EC (0.727 and 0.798) Na and EC (0.823 and 0.933), , Na and TS (0.845 and 0.922), TSS and TDS (0.642 and 0.682), Na and TDS (0.836 and 0.913), Na and TSS (0.640 and 0.773) winter and rainy seasons, K and Na (0.595 and 0.639) winter and summer, .Cl- and TS (0.523) , SO4 and TA (0.560) , Mg and TA (0.704) , TH and TA (0.595) winter season, Mg and SO4 (0.521), TH and SO4 (0.655), NO3 and Mg (0.785) summer season, Mg and Ca (0.503), NO3 and TH (0.799) rainy season.\r\n \r\nWater Quality Index (WQI) : Water Quality Index (WQI) out of 10 wards, showed that only 01 ward in winter and 01 ward in rainy season rated good, 08 wards in winter , 05 wards in summer and 07 wards in rainy season rated poor and 01 ward in winter, 05 wards in summer and 02 wards in rainy seasons rated very poor. The physico-chemical properties of the groundwater highly varied in locations. The area rated poor and very poor for drinking water quality requires treatment before use for public consumption\r\n','Shiv Singh, Asha Mathur, R. Mathur and V.I. Sharma (2012). Statistical Studies on Drinking Water Quality of Datia City, (M.P.). Biological Forum – An International Journal 4(2): 65-70. '),(4541,'120','Investigation of Qualitative and Quantitative Regeneration based on the Gap Regeneration size in Different Beech Types of Hyrcanian Forest','F. Jafari , A. Eslami , M. Hasani and S.A. Hashemi','6 ALIREZA ESLAMI.pdf','',1,'Whereas in seed origin forests and in close-to-nature silviculture, the future of forests depends on the stable establishment of saplings planted in the gaps; hence, the current study was done by selection sampling method with the aim of qualitative and quantitative investigation of natural regeneration based on the gap area in two different beech (Fagus orientalis Lipsky) forests: pure beech forest and beech with other species, in three areas of 0.5-1, 1.5-3 and 4-6 R, totally amounting to 60 gaps for two different beech types(30 gaps per type) in Sourdar Anarestan forest management plan, Mazandaran province, North of Iran. For sampling, five plots 4×4 and five micro plots 1×1 were used per each gap and regeneration in them was counted, measured and statistically analyzed. Number of saplings in different gaps was significantly different at 0.01for both types. The number of saplings in small and medium area gaps was higher, whereas that of the larger ones was lower. Concerning the mean area of gap with beech forest types, there was significant difference at 0.01.The area of gaps created in the mixed beech stand was more than that in the pure beech forest and according to Duncan\'s test, maximum gap area was aspect east and then aspect eastern north and west. Also, results showed that as the gap area increased, the number of saplings and their quality decreased for each type. Therefore, maximum the best gap area of 5to6 R can be suggested to secure the future of the planted saplings. ','Gap area, Fagus orientalis, Pure and mix beech stand, Iran','In general, it may be said that based on the study done on the appropriate area of gaps as well as the quality and quantity of regeneration in them, silviculture cutting ,tending of forest and harvest of trees as per the annual mass approved by the forest management plans, \r\n\r\nmust not be done in large levels; instead by taking into consideration the aspect and regional topography, small to medium groups of gaps measuring 500 to 600 m2 or less in area must be created in the exploited stands. In this way, through regulating the amount of light shed on each gap, an optimal level of quality and quantity improvement can be achieved and the continuation of production and sustainability of stands can be secured in long term. \r\n','Nowadays, what is known as the forest or forest stands across the world is in fact the result of development phases of regeneration in that forest over the past eras. The present condition of regeneration in an area is like a mirror showing the future feature of the forest in that location; thus any kind of change occurring in the natural regeneration condition will alter the feature of the future forest stands. Along this objective, to implement the close-to-nature silviculture and to reach sustainability and auto-regulation in forests, shape of the natural forest and processes occurring in the area of gap regeneration must be used and considered as the initial reference for sustainable forest management (Van Dermr et al.,1999). Determining the area of gaps for appropriate establishment of natural regeneration, which is among the most important success factors in implementation of forest management, is an inevitable issue in the sustainable management of forests. The extremely high importance of forest gaps made researchers to pay great attention to it and carry out wide studies on it over the last decades. \r\nThe results of the investigation done by Mousavi et al. (2003) on determining the gap area of the canopy to enhance the natural regeneration of beech, showed that the studied variables of regeneration were limited concerning the establishment and growth in the larger gaps (9to11 R), but had more optimal conditions in the smaller ones (1, 2, 4, 5 R) in which, harvest is, generally, done in the form of single tree. Studies done by Ghorchi Beigi (2001) on the qualitative and quantitative characteristics of beech saplings in Ramsar forests showed that the saplings existing in the cluster of 2 to 5 R had more appropriate quality compared to other gap areas. Shahnavazi et al. (2005) investigated natural regeneration in gasps formed in Golband beech forests quantitatively and qualitatively. Results showed that as the gap area increased, the frequency of saplings declined for all species, the least amount of which was experienced in gaps with the area of more than 10 R. \r\n \r\n\r\nThe highest frequency of beech species was observed in 2 to5 R gaps. In investigating the regeneration condition of regenerated gaps in Asalem forests of Guilan, Amanzade et al., (2006) declared that the minimum and maximum gap areas were 89 and 2276 m2. meters, respectively. As gap area increased, the number of beech saplings, and to some extent that of water beech saplings decreased in such a way that in gaps measuring more than 1000 m2 meters in area, no beech sapling was found. The study carried out by Gagnon et al., (2004) on the characteristics of gaps and regeneration in them, showed that the gaps had no regular geometric shape. The height and density of the saplings had no relation with the shape of the studied gaps. Moreover, the collar diameter of the saplings had a significant relation with the shape of the gaps but had no relation with the height and diameter average of trees surrounding the gaps. Albanecsi et al., (2005) investigated the effect of gap area on the environmental situation and regeneration conditions of silver-fir stands in Italy. Their results showed that gaps measuring 210 sq. meters in area had allocated the highest sapling height to themselves, significantly. Naaf and Wulf (2007) investigated the effect of gaps area on the amount of light, graze and vegetation in European beech forests. To this aim, 56 gaps measuring 116 to 1410 m2 in area were studied. Results showed that there was a significant positive correlation between number of weed species, the amount of relative light, grazing and the gap area. Also, as the gap area and grazing increased, density and regeneration of beech declined. Dolorowolsk and Veblem (2008) investigated the role of gaps in the regeneration process of Abies species in the central regions of Poland. Their study showed that different gap areas had no effect on the number of saplings and small saplings of tree species, whereas in gaps with different species mixture inside the gap, there was a significant relation between density of saplings and small saplings. In this direction, the present study was done with the aim of determining the appropriate area of regeneration gaps in order to obtain the optimal quality and quantity of regeneration in different beech types dominated by different ecological conditions, so as stands stability in long term can be achieved through proper marking and regeneration cutting.\r\nMATERIALS AND METHODS\r\nSite of study: This study was done in the area of basin 49 in districts 1, 2 and 3 of management plan of Anarestan Lavij, with a total area of 7356 ha is located in east of city Noor, Mazandaran province, in Caspian \r\nRegion. It is a mountainous forest, which is extended from 350 to1900 meters above sea level. Due to its proximity to moisture sources of Caspian Sea, it enjoys from good site and productivity conditions, in such a way that at high elevations, especially in districts 2&3, it is foggy (summer fog) and beech community has established there broadly. In most zones, its soil is alkaline due to the original marl and lime stones. The soil texture is composed of high clay percentage, clay loam to silty clay loam; as a result the soil is of poor to medium permeability and drainage. These are among the factors limiting this soil. The highest annual rain of 750 mm occurs in fall and continues in February and March in the form of snow. Studies on drought coefficient and Ambrotermic diagram show that in the studied area, the minimum time duration to use suitable days, is 160 days per year (Anonymous, 2007). Due to site conditions and topographic, different degrees of grown types were observed in this zone. So, this forest management plan is considered as the wood production pole in the region. \r\nMethod: At first 1:1000 and 1:2500 topographic maps of the area studied in Lavij forest management plan, wherein the selection system of silviculture was performed, was prepared. Then, by using vegetation forest type\'s maps and through numerous forest trips, two different types; i.e. pure beech forest and beech with other species were specified. In the form of data collection and selected sampling method, 30 gaps were determined in three areas of 0.5-1, 1.5-3 and 4-6 R, in each type and their position was recorded by GPS. Then through measuring the larger and smaller diameters of gaps by using plastic rope, their area was calculated. At the next stage, 10 square-shaped plots (five plots 4×4 and five micro plots 1×1) were determined in the four aspect and the central gaps (Fig.1). Efforts were made that the regeneration gaps be selected in different slopes (0, 5, 10, 15, 20, 100 percent) and different of land form (Upper hillside, lower hillside, middle, open and closed valleys, skid trail) with respect to the topographic conditions of the studied scope. In total, the quantitative and qualitative regeneration information of 300 plots and 300 micro plots, amounting to 600 selected plots, were recorded in the relevant forms. Then Kolmogorove- smirnov data normality test was performed on the quantity data. At the next stage, the data were statistically analyzed by one way ANOVA test and comparison of means tests and Kruskal-Wallis test was used for qualitative data. In this study, were use Excel and SPSS software.\r\nRESULTS\r\nThe data have been analyzed in two sections of quantitative and qualitative specifications. \r\nQuantitative Specifications: Gap area: Results obtained from variance analysis, showed that concerning the gap area, with a probability of 99%, there was significant difference between mean beech forest types, aspect, stand structures and the topographies .Also, this analysis showed that type of \r\nspecies had no significant effect on the gap area (Table 1).\r\nBased on the comparison made between beech forest types through using independent t-test, it became clear that the area of gaps created in beech with other species stand was more than the pure beech stand, in such a way that the former, with the area of 828 m2, had larger gap area compared to the latter with the mean area of 573 m2. And in this regard, a significant difference was observed between two stands (Table 2, Fig. 2).\r\n \r\n\r\nBased on Aspect: Comparison between aspects by using Duncan\'s test at the significance level of 0.05 showed that the highest gap areas were aspect east, eastern north and west with mean values of 856, 787and 765 m2, respectively and the lowest gap areas were aspect western north and north, with the mean values of 565, 2367 and 670 m2, respectively. Statistically, there was significant difference in formed gap (size and area). But, no significant difference was observed between the west and east north aspect with respect to the areas of the formed gaps (Fig. 3). \r\nBased on topographic conditions: Also, the gap area was different for different topographies, in such a way that according to the Duncan\'s comparison test (at level of 0.05) larger gaps were observed in the middle hillside and flat zones, with the means of 809 and 801 m2, respectively. \r\nStatistically, they were placed in one group while terrace region, with the mean of 326 m2 had the least gap area and in this regard, it was significantly difference from other regions (Fig. 4). \r\nQualitative Specifications: In this study, to investigate the qualitative specifications of trees, in addition to the descriptive statistics, Kruskal-Wallis test was used to compare the parameters. In this direction, each studied factor was ranked based on the quality (excellent, good, medium and bad). In general, 42.4%, 10.6% and 0.6 % of trees were of excellent, good and medium qualities, respectively (Fig. 5). This shows the optimal quality of the studied area\'s forests. \r\nBased on the Kruskal-Wallis test, tree qualities were not significantly different regarding beech forest types, aspect, topography and stand structure. But there was a significant difference in the quality of trees of different species at level of 0.01 (Table 3). \r\nGap regeneration plays an important role in the evolution and dynamics of temperate forests. Therefore, research and investigation on their appropriate amount of area can play a substantial role in leading the forests toward establishment of climax species and in making the stands sustainable in long term. Results obtained from this study showed that the gap formed in mixed beech stands were larger than those formed in pure beech stands. \r\n\r\nThe highest and the lowest amounts of gap areas were observed in eastern and west northern aspects, respectively. It was also found that larger gaps were formed in middle hillside and flat areas and the smallest gaps were created in terrace area. The lowest amounts of gap areas were observed for Alnus glutinosa, Acer cappadocium and Fagus orrientalis species, whereas the highest ones were observed for Parrotia persica, Carpinus betulus, Acer velutinum, Tilia begonifolia and other forest species; but this difference was not significant statistically.\r\n \r\n \r\n \r\nAlso, no significant difference was found between the beech forest types, aspects, stand structures and regional topographies regarding the number of saplings. But there was a significant difference between different species at level of 0.01; in such a way that the highest number of saplings was that of beech species. Number of saplings and the extent of regeneration were higher in west north, north and east north aspects compared to other aspects. Concerning the topography, the highest regeneration was observed on hillsides. Besides, results showed that as gap area increased, the number of beech saplings decreased. In other words, better gap regeneration for beech occurred in the small gaps. This is in consistency with studies conducted by Burger et al., (2001), Sagheb Talebi et al., (2001) & Amanzadeh et al., (2006). They believed that as gap area increases, other photophilic weed species like Rubus caesius L, Grasses, Artemisia sp. and Urtica dioica cover the gap surface and make it difficult for beech to establish and regenerate. On the other hand, as gaps increase in area, the amount of light shed on them increases by 10% (Chazdon and Field,1987) whereas, the amount of light shed on areas of closed canopies is between 0.4 and 2%. This increase of light leads to the introduction of invader species. \r\nResults of Mousavi et al., (2003) concerning Fagus orientalis showed that no significant difference was found between mean collar diameter of beech saplings in 1to2 R and 4to5 R gaps, whereas the difference was significant in 9to11 R gaps ,accordingly the above findings are consistent with results this studies. In other words, it can be said that in performing selection system, single-tree harvest and creating gaps measuring less than 600 m2 in area provide- against a group cutting trees- more proper conditions for growth and establishment of beech saplings. The reason is that areas larger than that do not lead into the increase of number, quality improvement and height growth of beech saplings and only result in diameter saplings increase which is not so much necessary in the early stages of beech growth. So, increase of gap area only leads to introduction of invader weed species and endangers the continuation of growth stages of beech species. In this direction, the studies conducted by Ghadiripour (2003), Galij et al., (2007) and Shahnavazi et al., (2005) confirms the results obtained here. \r\n','F. Jafari , A. Eslami , M. Hasani and S.A. Hashemi (2014). Investigation of Qualitative and Quantitative Regeneration based on the Gap Regeneration size in Different Beech Types of Hyrcanian Forest. Biological Forum – An International Journal 6(2): 30-36.'),(4542,'120','Study the Effect of Foliar Application of Nano Chelate Molybdenum Fertilizer on the Yield and Yield Components of Peanut','Mehrangiz Jabbari Manjili, Sirous Bidarigh and Ebrahim Amiri','7 MEHRANGIZ JABBARI MANJILI.pdf','',1,'In order to study the effect of foliar application of nano chelate molybdenum fertilizer on the yield and yield components of peanut, Factorial experiment was conducted in the form of randomized complete block design with 3 replications with the amount of nitrogen fertilizer in three levels (60, 30, 0 kg per ha) and nano chelate molybdenum fertilizer as foliar application containing four levels (3, 2, 1, 0 grams per liter) in Astaneh Ashrafieh city located in the East Gilan province in the crop year of 2012. The results of analysis of variance showed that nano chelate molybdenum has a significant effect on the traits such as plant height, number of pods per plant, number of ripe pods per plant, hundred seed weight, seed number per plant, seed length and seed and pods yield and the number of lateral branches and the biological performance. Also the results of average comparison of nano chelate molybdenum fertilizer different values showed that pods and seed highest yield is obtained 2320 and 3715 kg per hectare in manure treatment of 3 g of molybdenum per liter.','Peanut, nano chelate molybdenum, yield, yield components ','In general, the present research results implying that nano-chelate molybdenum fertilizer had affect on all traits. Therefore, the manure treatment of 3 grams molybdenum per liter can be proposed as the proper management of fertilizer for peanuts plant in the area conditions. Since molybdenum increases absorption of nitrogen, and will increase the performance, thus optimal use and easy access to micro nutrients increases the elements concentration in plants and thereby enriching agricultural crops to feed humans.','Environmental pollution is one of the most serious problems facing the world today which has many reasons and origin. One of the main causes of environmental pollution, especially water and soil, is the overuse of agricultural pesticides and chemical fertilizers with common method and formulations. Nanotechnology is one of the most dynamic and advanced available science which has a high, efficient and abundant capacities for use in various disciplines including agricultural (T, josepH and marrison, 2006). Peanut is one of the most important and economical oilseeds in tropical and subtropical regions and is mostly cultivated owing to its oil, protein and carbohydrate (Panhwar, 2005). This shrub plant is perennial, from Leguminose family and Arachis genus and has a main and direct root (Panjtandoust, 2008). China, India, the USA, Nigeria, Indonesia, Burma and Senegal are the leading manufacturers of this product. Peanut cultivation in Iran is done in Golestan, Khuzestan and Guilan provinces. In Guilan province, it is mainly cultivated in Astaneh-ye Ashrafieh county along Sepidroud river (Noorhosseini & Haghdoost, 2010). Molybdenum is a metal cofactor (Isavand and Ashouri, 1380). Molybdenum is essential for nitrogen fixation in plants of Leguminous family and hence its deficiency leads to symptoms of nitrogen deficiency in this specie of plants (Mahmoudi and Hakimian, 1385).\r\n\r\nMATERIALS AND METHODS \r\nTo investigate effect of foliar application of nano chelate molybdenum fertilizer on the yield and yield components of peanut, an experiment was done in Astaneh-ye Ashrafieh county located in north of Iran with latitude of 37° and 15\', longitude of 49° and 55\' and average height of 7 m above sea level in crop year 2012. Meteorological data of the studied period were obtained from Meteorological Station of Astaneh-ye Ashrafieh county. This region is among temperate and humid regions and its land soil texture is silty sand with pH of 7.6.\r\nInformation related to soil characteristics and meteorological data of the studied location is presented at Tables 1 and 2. This research was implemented as a factorial experiment in a randomized complete block design with three replicates in the cultivated land. First, on 5 May 2012, the cultivated land was plowed and then cultivating peanut seed (Gilbadam local cultivar, NC2) was manually started in rows with depth of 3-4 cm. Before the cultivation, seeds were disinfected in carboxin thiram fungicide in ratio of 2 to 1000 (Craufurrd et al., 2002). Amounts of nitrogen fertilizer (from urea fertilizer source) contained no (N1), 30 (N2) and 60 (N3) kg/ha nitrogen and molybdenum (from nonaochelated molybdenum source) was in foliar application including 0 (mo1), 1 (mo2), 2 (mo3) and 3 (mo4) g/lit for each unit. \r\nHalf of the nitrogen fertilizer was given as the base and the remaining was provided in three equal parts 20, 30 and 40 days after the cultivation (Geetha and Varughese, 2001). Half of nanochelated molybdenum fertilizer was given at the time of branching and the rest was consumed during flowering. Protection operations which were carried out in the field included of weeding for controlling weeds and adding soil to the root surrounding. Harvesting time was on 20 September 2010. To estimate seed and pod yields, after removing two rows of plants from both sides, the ripe pods were first removed from the shrubs in the harvesting part of each unit. Then, they were placed in open air for moisture reduction for one week. The pods were then dried in an oven for 48 h until reaching constant dry weight. After taking the pods out of the oven, their dry weight was recorded using a digital scale with accuracy of 0.01.\r\nAfterward, yield value of the pod was calculated in kg/ha. The number of ripe pods per shrub was calculated by dividing total number of ripe pods by the number of plants located in each unit. After determining the number of ripe pods per unit, the pods were kept in an oven at 60 to 65 °C for 48 h until reaching constant dry weight. After this period, ripe pods of each unit were weighed using a scale with accuracy of 0.01. Then, weight of a ripe pod was obtained by dividing weight of ripe pods in each harvested area by the number of ripe pods. To determine 100-seed weight, first, the seeds available per 200 g of ripe pods in each unit were taken out of the pods and then maintained in an over at 60° C for 48 h. Afterwards, from among the seeds out of the oven, 100 seeds were randomly selected and weighed by a digital scale in g. Moreover, at the end of the crop season, traits of plant height, grain length and width were measured. In Analysis of Variance of the data and comparing averages (LSD test at 5% level), MSTATC software was used. Microsoft EXCEL was also used for drawing the diagrams.\r\nRESULTS AND DISCUSSION\r\nThe results from analysis of variance for the trait number of seeds per plant showed that there are significant differences at 1% probability level between the different levels of nitrogen fertilizer as well as between different amounts of nano chelate molybdenum fertilizer and their interaction at 1% probability level (Table 3). \r\nThe results of average comparison of nano chelate molybdenum fertilizer different values at a rate of 3 g per liter caused the number of seeds per plant to be 58.62. Also between the two manure treatment of M3, M4, no significant differences were observed but in the treatment without nano chelate molybdenum fertilizer, the number of seeds per plant is 46.18 (Table 4). \r\n \r\n Manjili, Bidarigh and Amiri 39\r\n \r\nIncreased molybdenum increases the height, the number of branches and pods per plant and the number of seeds per plant and seed yield in lentil (Tigayat et al, 2008). The results from analysis of variance for the trait of number of lateral stem showed that there is a significant difference between various levels of nitrogen fertilizer and various amounts of nano chelate molybdenum at 1% probability level, as well as their interactions at 1% probability level (Table 3). The results of average comparison of nano chelate molybdenum fertilizer different values at a rate of 3 g per liter caused the number of seeds per plant to be 80.44. \r\nAlso between the two manure treatment of M3, M4, no significant differences were observed but in the treatment without nano chelate molybdenum fertilizer, the number of seeds per plant is 67.78 (Table 4). One kilogram of Molybdenum per ha significantly increases root and shoots and dry matter content and treatment yield (Bhuiyan, et al, 2008). The results of average comparison of nano chelate molybdenum fertilizer different values for the trait of seed yield showed that the use of nano chelate molybdenum fertilizer at the rate of 3 g of molybdenum per liter caused the seed yield to be 80.44 kg per ha. and also between the two manure treatment of M3, M4, no significant differences were observed. But in the treatment without nano chelate molybdenum fertilizer, the seeds yield is 1607 kg per ha (Table 4) (Quaggio et al, 2004). Leaves analysis showed that the availability of soil molybdenum and lime increases the leaves of Peanut. Molybdenum fertilizer lead to increased nitrogen of leaves and increased yield of peanut in the treatment with a low dose of lime.\r\n','Mehrangiz Jabbari Manjili, Sirous Bidarigh and Ebrahim Amiri (2014). Study the Effect of Foliar Application of Nano Chelate Molybdenum Fertilizer on the Yield and Yield Components of Peanut.Biological Forum – An International Journal 6(2): 37-40.'),(4543,'120','Isolation of Alicyclobacillus acidoterrestris from Commercial Spoiled apple Juice and Study on some Influence Parameters on its Growth in Apple Juice','Mandana Tayefe, Azin Nasrollah Zade*, Mazyar Safaeii Asl and Seyed Armin Hashemi','8 MANDANA TAYEFE.pdf','',1,'The acid-tolerant and heat-resistant bacterium Alicyclobacillus acidoterrestris is a spoilage problem in pasteurized and heat-treated fruit juices. This study was undertaken to identify the bacterium and metabolic products contributing to a disinfectant taint in shelf-stable fruit juice and to determine some of the growth conditions for the organism. Generally the aim of this work was to study the influence of temperature (25-65 °C), total soluble solids (different °Brix) and various types of fruit juice on growth of the A. acidoterrestris. A strain of Alocyclobacillus acidoterrestris was isolated from spoiled commercial apple juice. Isolated strain growth was studied in different temperatures, different type of juices and brix, was on its growth was investigated. According to the statistical results, all parameters had significant effect on the isolated strain. Also results showed that the isolated strain of A. acidoterrestris had maximum growth in 45°C and brix 12. The resistance of A. acidoterrestris at the assayed temperatures was confirmed. Spore resistance increases with higher SS and pH values. In the other hand the growth of isolated strain wasn\'t observed in Red Grape juice. This occurrence proved inhibition of phenolic compound of Red Grape. Also temperature was the parameter that had the greatest influence on the bacterial growth.','Brix, IFU, Incubation, Alocyclobacillus acidoterrestris','The acid-tolerant and heat-resistant bacterium Alicyclobacillus acidoterrestris is a spoilage problem in pasteurized and heat-treated fruit juices. This study was undertaken to identify the bacterium and metabolic products contributing to a disinfectant taint in shelf-stable fruit juice and to determine some of the growth conditions for the organism. Generally the aim of this work was to study the influence of temperature (25-65 °C), total soluble solids (different °Brix) and various types of fruit juice on growth of the A. acidoterrestris. A strain of Alocyclobacillus acidoterrestris was isolated from spoiled commercial apple juice. Isolated strain growth was studied in different temperatures, different type of juices and brix, was on its growth was investigated. According to the statistical results, all parameters had significant effect on the isolated strain. Also results showed that the isolated strain of A. acidoterrestris had maximum growth in 45°C and brix 12. The resistance of A. acidoterrestris at the assayed temperatures was confirmed. Spore resistance increases with higher SS and pH values. In the other hand the growth of isolated strain wasn\'t observed in Red Grape juice. This occurrence proved inhibition of phenolic compound of Red Grape. Also temperature was the parameter that had the greatest influence on the bacterial growth.','Alicyclobacillus acidoterrestris is a thermoacidophilic spore forming bacteria, which has the ability to survive traditional thermal process. Acidophilic spore formers were first isolated in 1967 from hot springs in Japan and later from soil. Those from hot springs had a higher optimum growth temperature and were termed Bacillus acidocaldarius. Strains isolated from soil were termed B. acidoterrestris. In 1992, the creation of a new genus, Alicyclobacillus, was proposed, to comprise the species B. acidocaldarius, B. acidoterrestris, and B. cycloheptanicus. Comparative rDNA sequence analyses showed that the 3 strains were sufficiently different from other Bacillus spp. to warrant reclassification in a new genus. Also, Alicyclobacillus spp. are unique in their fatty acid profiles, containing ώ -alicyclic fatty acid as the major natural membranous lipid component. Alicyclobacillus acidoterrestris has been reported to cause juice spoilage, manifested as an off flavor and light cloudiness (Walls, et al, 2000).\r\nSeveral studies have found that A. acidoterrestris can grow at temperatures from 20 to 55°C and pH values form 2.5 to 6.0. \r\nThis bacterium has been isolated from various types of habitats, but studies showed it is commonly found in soil and water. Since its discovery, this bacterium has been associated in the spoilage of many foods, especially acidic juices, such as orange juice, apple juice and fruits blend (Forestier et al, 2009).\r\nUchino and Doi reported the isolation of spore-forming bacteria from a hot spring site that grew under acidic and geothermal conditions, and has very similar characteristics to Bacillus coagulans (Uchino, 1967). In the 1980s, an acidophilic species was isolated from apple juice and identified as a new type of spoilage bacterium. Originally named bacillus acidoterretris this organism was later classified in a new genus, Alicyclobacillus (Wisse, 1998). Alicyclobacillus strains survive and grow in acidic beverages, and are responsible for the flat sour type spoilage and the production of guaiacol (Evangelina, 1999, Goldberg 2002, Mitsuda, 2003, Walls, 2000, Yamazaki, 1996). The source of Alicyclobacillus contamination is soil, and Alicyclobacillus contamination of fruit juices is typically introduced via soil residue remaining on the fruit surface (Matsubara, 2002, Michelle, 2005, and Walls, 2000). \r\nThe presence of Alicyclobacillus acidoterrestris has been reported in the United States and Europe causing economic loss due to the recall of the final product (Forestier, et al, 2009).But no studies have been made in Iran regarding the presence of A. acidoterrestris in fruit juices. \r\nThe main objective of this investigation was isolation of A. acidoterrestris strain from spoiled commercial apple juice and then affected parameters on its growth was investigated.\r\nMATERIALS AND METHODS\r\nA. Method of isolation of A. acidoterrestris in fruit juice\r\nThe preparation of samples and detection of Alicyclobacillus was developed according to IFU protocol. According IFU method, YGC-agar, K-agar and BAT-agar was used as culture media for detection and Confirmation Tests for Alicyclobacillus isolation. K agar is a novel isolation medium developed for the Food industry (Uchino, 1967, Walls, 2000). Differentiation of species was done by Differential Temperature Method. This method is based on the fact that A. acidoterrestris has a relatively low optimum temperature for growth compared to the other Alicyclobacillus species (Yokota, 2007). Study about effective parameters on Alicyclobacillus acidoterrestris growth Parameters such as type of fruit juice, temperature of incubation, pH and the Brix of the fruit juice play an important role in Alicyclobacillus growth (Yokota, 2007).\r\nEffect of fruit juice type: Not all species of Alicyclobacillus grow in fruit juices under normal environmental conditions. Some species, such as A. acidoterrestris, A. hesperidum and A. acidiphilus, can grow in juices or soft drink products containing fruit juice. The type of juice greatly affects the growth of Alicyclobacillus (Orr 2000). In this study, growth of isolated strain in apple juice, orange juice, red grape juice, white grape juice, peach juice was studied. A. acidoterrestris spores (20-50 CFU/ml) were inoculated into 100 ml of different fruit juices with brix 12 and then incubated at 45°C for 2 weeks (Yokota, 2007).\r\nEffect of Temperature: The temperature for growth of Alicyclobacillus species is within a range from 20°C to 70°C. For A. acidoterrestris, a species particularly known for its ability to cause undesirable odor (guaiacol) in soft drinks, the temperature range for growth in culture media is 20-55°C (Jensen. N, 1999), similar behavior is also observed when fruit juices are the growth medium (Michelle, 2005). To study about isolated strain growth in different temperatures, A. acidoterrestris spores (20-50 CFU/ml) were inoculated into 100 ml of apple juice and then incubated at 25-65°C for 8 days (Yokota, 2007). \r\nEffect of Brix: The optimum pH for growth of isolated strain in culture media was studied. A. acidoterrestris spores (20-50 CFU/ml) were inoculated into 100 ml of apple juices with different brix and then incubated at 45°C for 2 days. Different range of brix obtained by adding water or sugar in apple juice (6-24%).\r\nLog N/N0 (N = Count of A. acidoterrestris in initial time of incubation & N0= Count of A. acidoterrestris after 2 days of incubation) was estimated (Yokota. R, 2007).\r\nB. Statistical analysis\r\nAll of the data were analyzed statistically with data processing softwares and figured with Microsoft excel 2007.\r\nRESULTS \r\nEffect of fruit juice type and Brix\r\nThe growth rate of isolated strain is much related to type of juice (Table 1). \r\nDISCUSSION\r\nAccording to results, type of fruit juice is an effective parameter on growth of A. acidoterrestris. The disability to growth of A. cidoterrestris in red grape juice is attributed to the presence of natural phenolic compounds, which have antimicrobial activity (Splittstoesser, 1998). A variety of polyphenols extracted from grapes were also investigated for their inhibitory effect on A. acidoterrestris, and the results indicated cumaric acid and ferulic acid had a strong inhibitory affect with a MIC (minimal inhibitory concentration) of 150-200 mg/L 10 (Eiroa, 1999). Goto and co-workers tested the growth behavior of several strains of A. acidoterrestris in a variety of fruit juices, and have concluded that the behavior of the strains depends on the type of juice and also on the source of isolation of the strains (Goto, 2003). \r\nBrix was an effective factor on bacterial growth too. As increasing of brix from 6% to 12%, caused enhancement of bacterial growth. This result confirmed by Maldonado et al. They in their research showed that brix influence spore viability, because spore resistance increases with higher SS (Maldonado, 2005). But influence bacterial growth decrease with higher than 12% brix (Fig. 1). Reason of this result is related to decreasing of optimum content of water activity that is necessary for bacterial growth. \r\nIn regard to results, bacterial growth was observed from 35°C to 45°C. Rivera Forestier et al in their research showed that A. acidoterrestris can grow at temperatures from 20 to 55°C too (Forestier, 2009). The ability to survive high temperature is due to their unique membrane composition that possesses ώ -cyclohexane fatty acids (Forestier, 2009). Maidonado et al., confirmed the resistance of A. acidoterrestris at the assayed temperatures too. Also they showed that temperature was the parameter that had the greatest influence on the Decimal reduction time (Maldonado, 2005). \r\nWith the regard to studied environmental parameters on isolated A. acidoterrestris growth, this strain can be a major danger for fruit juice processors. Thus more study on using of natural compounds to prevention of this strain growth is the future project. \r\nAll obtained results in this article is validate for mentioned isolated starin. Thus, the results may be applied to the acidic food industry, especially the manufacture of fruit juice and fruit juice-containing drinks that have problem with similar microorganisms\r\n','Mandana Tayefe, Azin Nasrollah Zade*, Mazyar Safaeii Asl and Seyed Armin Hashemi (2014). Isolation of Alicyclobacillus acidoterrestris from Commercial Spoiled apple Juice and Study on some Influence Parameters on its Growth in Apple Juice. Biological Forum – An International Journal 6(2): 41-45'),(4544,'120','The Polymorphism of GDF-9 Gene in Hisari Sheep','Yadollah Bahrami, Sajad Bahrami, Hamid Reza Mohammadi, Vaheid Chekani-Azar and Seyed Azim Mousavizadeh\r\n','9 YADOLLAH BAHRAMI.pdf','',1,'Application of molecular technologies led to the discovery of mutations with major effects on the reproductive and meat efficiency of sheep and goat. This study aimed to identify mutations in exon 1 region of GDF-9 gene associated with twining was conducted using PCR-RFLP method on Sheep Hisari - Tajikistan race. To identify polymorphisms in these loci Tajikistan blood samples were bled from 110 head of Hisari Tajikestani sheep race. DNA was extracted using the salt in Yashor biotechnology laboratory was located in Dushanbe and to amplification of these fragments in gene loci, quantity and quality of extracted DNA was determined by using electrophoresis gel. Then, piece, 462 bp, is related to GDF-9 positions was used from specific primer and polymerase chain reaction (PCR). GDF-9 gene by the enzyme HhaI showed both wild type allele G (+) and G (-). Also, G (+/+), G (-/+) and G (-/-) genotypes in frequency 93.64, 6.36 and 0 and alleles frequency G (+) and G (-), respectively showed 0.97 and 0.03. The average heterozygosity for GDF-9 is 0.0616. Results of this study indicate that there is genetic polymorphic and mutation in the gene loci GDF-9. Further studies on exon 1 region of GDF-9 gene or other genes are required using larger samples to be done in this race, so that definite the results. Because the Hisari sheep race is an important source of genetic Tajikistan sheep and pay attention to valued production traits, it has ability to become a twining breed','Polymorphism, GDF-9 gene, Hisari sheep, twining, PCR-RFLP.','Application of molecular technologies led to the discovery of mutations with major effects on the reproductive and meat efficiency of sheep and goat. This study aimed to identify mutations in exon 1 region of GDF-9 gene associated with twining was conducted using PCR-RFLP method on Sheep Hisari - Tajikistan race. To identify polymorphisms in these loci Tajikistan blood samples were bled from 110 head of Hisari Tajikestani sheep race. DNA was extracted using the salt in Yashor biotechnology laboratory was located in Dushanbe and to amplification of these fragments in gene loci, quantity and quality of extracted DNA was determined by using electrophoresis gel. Then, piece, 462 bp, is related to GDF-9 positions was used from specific primer and polymerase chain reaction (PCR). GDF-9 gene by the enzyme HhaI showed both wild type allele G (+) and G (-). Also, G (+/+), G (-/+) and G (-/-) genotypes in frequency 93.64, 6.36 and 0 and alleles frequency G (+) and G (-), respectively showed 0.97 and 0.03. The average heterozygosity for GDF-9 is 0.0616. Results of this study indicate that there is genetic polymorphic and mutation in the gene loci GDF-9. Further studies on exon 1 region of GDF-9 gene or other genes are required using larger samples to be done in this race, so that definite the results. Because the Hisari sheep race is an important source of genetic Tajikistan sheep and pay attention to valued production traits, it has ability to become a twining breed','hisari sheep is a light weight fat tailled Tajikestani breed considered to be of major economic importance because of its meat. In sheep, genetic variation in ovulation rate has been widely documented. Evidence shows substantial difference among breeds and in a number of cases exceptional variations within breeds/strains (Galloway et al., 2000). Improvement of reproductive traits in livestock species has become of increasing interest, especially in sheep, where small increases in litter size can equal large gains in profit. Genetic improvement of reproductive traits has traditionally been restricted to use of quantitative genetic methods but gain has been limited when using these methods. Recently improvement in molecular genetics provided that the major genes associated with reproduction can be utilized in breeding through marker-assisted selection (MAS). Reproductive traits are often suggested as prime targets for MAS for their low heritability and the fact that the trait can be measured only in one sex. Ovulation rate (i.e. the number of mature oocytes released during one reproductive cycle) in mammals is determined by a complex exchange of hormone signals between the pituitary gland and the ovary, and by a localized exchange of hormones within ovarian follicles between the oocyte and its adjacent somatic cells (Galloway et al., 2000; Eppig, 2001). Many mam sometimes two whereas other mammals such as rats, mice, hamsters, cats, dogs and pigs have ovulation rates that vary between four and 15 (McNatty et al., 2005). Genetic variation in ovulation rate in sheep has been widely documented and the evidence shows substantial differences among breeds and in a number of cases exceptional variations within breeds/strains (Bindon et al., 1996). The latter phenomenon has been explained by segregation of a major gene with a large effect on ovarian function.This hypothesis provided an explanation for high prolificacy of Booroola sheep (Davis et al., 1982; Piper et al., 1982).\r\n \r\n\r\nSubsequently, putative major genes were invoked to explain the increased litter size and/or ovulation rate in a variety of breeds/strains, including Inverdale (Davis et al., 1991), Cambridge (Hanrahan et al., 2004), Thoka (Jonmundsson et el., 1985), Javanese (Bradford et al., 1986), Olkuska (Radomska et al., 1988), Belclare (Hanrahan, 1991), Lacaune (Bodin et al., 1998) and Woodlands (Davis et al., 2001) sheep breeds. Growth differentiation factor 9 (GDF9) is a growth factor and a member of the transforming growth factor β superfamily that is secreted by oocytes in growing ovarian follicles, which is essential for growth and differentiation of early ovarian follicles (McPherron et al., 1993). GDF9 was reported to be expressed exclusively in the ovary, specifically in the oocyte in mice (McGrath et al., 1995; Dube et al., 1998; Lan et al., 2003), rats (Vitt et al., 2000), sheep (Bodensteiner et al., 1999; Juengel et al., 2002), cattle (Bodensteiner et al., 1999) and the human (Vitt et al., 2000). The structure of the GDF9 gene had been reported in rats (Jaatinen et al., 1999) and sheep (Bodensteiner et al., 1999). Female mice lacking GDF9 were infertile due to a block in folliculogenesis at the primary follicle stage (Dong et al., 1996; Carabatsos et al., 1998). Bodensteiner et al. (1999) reported the nucleotide sequence of the ovine GDF9 gene (GenBank accession number AF078545). Like the human and mouse genes, ovine GDF9 spans approximately 2.5 kb and contains two exons and one intron. Exon 1 spans 397 bp and encodes for amino acids 1-134, while exon 2 spans 968 bp and encodes for amino acids 135-456. The single intron spans 1126 bp. Bodensteiner et al. (2000) reported that this was the first time that the GDF9 mRNA expression was localized exclusively to oocytes of foetal sheep at day 135 of gestation. Sadighi et al. (1998; 2002) mapped the GDF9 gene to ovine chromosome 5. Juengel et al. (2004) reported that short-term immunization against GDF9 peptide resulted in an increase in ovulation rate with no apparent detrimental effects on fertilization of released oocytes, the ability of fertilized oocytes to undergo normal foetal development, or the ability of the immunized ewes to carry a pregnancy to term. Cambridge and Belclare are prolific sheep breeds, the origins of which involved selecting ewes with exceptionally high litter size records from commercial flocks. Hanrahan et al. (2004) reported a mutation (S395F) in the GDF9 gene that was associated with both increased ovulation rate in heterozygous carriers and sterility in homozygous carriers in Cambridge and Belclare sheep. The aim of this study was to investigate the presence of polymorphism in GDF9 and its possible association with litter size in the hisari sheep breed.\r\nMATERIAL AND METHODS \r\nIn this project, 110 Hisami sheep race were randomly sampled. All blood samples was prepared from the jugular vein in the neck and using vacuum tube 10 mM containing EDTA, and in the ice was transported to the Laboratory of Biotechnology Yashour located in Dushanbe. DNA was extracted using DNA extraction method from white blood cells and extracting salt of Miller et al (1988) with a few changes DNA extraction. DNA extraction is electrophoresis on agarose gel 0.7 percent, slightly higher than the first marker bands. To determine the quality and quantity of DNA, done in agarose gels with a concentration of 0.8% and stained with ethidium bromide concentration 10μg/μl. Polymerase chain reaction stages in amplification of the exon 1 region of GDF-9 gene in Hisari sheep was used with the following sequence (Table 1).\r\nThe desired gene fragment was amplified by polymerase chain reaction (PCR). Size used in the mixture (PCR), is μl25 so that includes (Table 2)\r\nTemperature program of chain reaction consisted of 35 cycles of amplification with an initial denaturing temperature of 94°C for 3 min, then denaturing temperature of 94°C for 1 min, junction temperature 59°C for 45 seconds, multiply temperature of 72°C for 1 min and final extension temperature was 72°C for 5 min. Polymerase chain reaction products on agarose gel (2% buffer TBE) electrophoresis and in markers size was confirmed accuracy of desired fragment. 462 bp desired fragment after the amplification were under restriction enzyme treatment (GCG↓C) HhaI. Then products obtained of electrophoresis were isolated on agarose gel (2% buffer TBE). After this time, the gel was taken to Gel documentation system and took it the photo. After completion of the laboratory works and genotyping of all samples, counting the genotypes and determine the allele frequency, check the Hardy - Weinberg equilibrium, observed heterozygote and homozygote has been examined, it was done Pop Gene32 software.\r\n\r\n \r\n\r\n\r\nRESULTS\r\nExtraction of DNA molecules from sheep blood tissue by salt extracting Miller et al (1988) DNA extraction was performed with a few changes. During this procedure, ammonium chloride plays a role cell lysis. \r\nDetermination of concentration and quality of DNA was done in each sample compared with standard \r\n\r\n\r\nconcentration of lambda phage DNA that cut with EcoRI and HindIII shear enzymes. Extracted DNA did not generate any abnormalities samples on the agarose gel that it indicates that DNA molecules are not broken. Also, in this experiment, the contamination effects were found by salt in the extracted solution that signifies on the purity of the extracted DNA.\r\n \r\n Bahrami, Bahrami, Mohammadi, Chekani-Azar and Mousavizadeh 49 \r\nElectrophoresis of amplified products of exon 1 position of GDF-9 gene confirmed 462 bp fragments from amplification. PCR products obtained by using agarose gel (2%) were electrophoresed that in Fig.1 given an example of the PCR products.\r\nAmplified 462 bp fragment of GDF-9 gene was impressed restriction enzyme HhaI. Restriction enzyme will cut GCG“!C site. About this gene, wild-type allele has 2 cut locals that after digestion created 3 pieces 254, 156 and 52 bp. So, a homozygous individual in this case is as G (+/+) and with 3 piece. While the mutant type allele has a cut local that after digestion created 2 fragments 410 and 52 bp. Therefore homozygous individual in this state as G (-/-) and has 2 pieces. In animals heterozygous G (-/+) a 4 bands or pieces is visible of 410, 254, 156 and 52 of the digest (Figure 3). After electrophoresis, digested products of all samples in studied Hisari sheep of two genotypes G (+/+) and G (-/+) shown in Fig. 2.\r\n \r\n\r\nIn Table 3, the observed number, observed genotype frequencies, the expected frequency, expected number, Chi-square (X2) and observed allele frequencies, position in exon 1 of the GDF-9 gene in Hisari sheep race has shown. In this gene locus was determined two wild type allele G (+) and G (-). Genotype G (+/+) showed maximum frequency of 103 and 93.64 percent in herds. Heterozygous genotype G (-/+) with 7 observations and 6.36 percent showed lower frequency than the genotypes G (+/+). Genotype G (-/-) in testing \r\nherd wasn\'t found so that this could be due to the low number of samples or low frequency alleles G (-). To evaluate the Hardy - Weinberg equilibrium was used of Chi-square test that in the Table 3 was shown. According to calculation of χ2 gained from the Table (0.1014) and comparison with the Chi-square Table 3 suggesting that studied population for GDF-9 gene is in the Hardy - Weinberg equilibrium, although the due to the low samples and so on, genotype G (-/-) weren\'t identified.\r\n Bahrami, Bahrami, Mohammadi, Chekani-Azar and Mousavizadeh 50 \r\nObserved and expected heterozygosity, Nei expected heterozygosity and the average heterozygosity of the GDF-9 gene in the studied herds are given in Table 4. Heterozygous level is considered one of indexes to introduce genetic variation in a population. Average heterozygosity, Nei heterozygous, observed heterozygosity is amount of 0.0616, 0.0616 and 0.0636, respectively. As it is noticeable, the lower heterozygous level of GDF-9 gene in studied herd that it can be because of closing down of the herd. So that in the system studied herds breeding is used of wild males for mating system itself. Therefore, increasing the breeding and reduce the level of heterozygosity is observed.\r\nFirst time Hanrahan et al., (2004), by the molecular analysis of GDF-9 gene in sheep of Cambridge and Belclare breeds were reported mutations in those genes that were associated with multiple birth of these two strains. They discovered new mutations in this gene and expressed these mutations in heterozygous state are associated with increased rates of egg laying and in the homozygous state show the sterility phenotype. The researchers showed that Cambridge and Belclare sheep carrying a mutation in the gene (FecGH) GDF-9 in exons 1 and 2, which increases ovulation rate in heterozygous sheep and the lack of fertility in homozygous sheep. They also stated that a copy of FecGH increase 1.4 ovulation rate in this sheep, that our results confirm this gene as heterozygous in Hisari sheep and according to having this aspect is one of important characteristics in sheep and its importance in meat races that their breeding is done in order to more meat production is most prominent. \r\nGDF-9 gene is autosomal that in homozygous state causes sterility and in heterozygous state provides multiple births. Eight mutations in this gene have been identified that influence of each mutant allele from 0.3 to 1.2 lambs in per lambing has been reported (Naghizadeh et al., 2010). Genetic variation in ovulation rate in sheep mainly has been studied in different races, and it is clear that an important part of the phenomenon of multi birth is by segregation of major genes associated with reproduction and ovulation that also included of the Hisari race. Therefore, it may be argued this point that the nature of Tajiki sheep act in favor of animal competence for survival and according to that Tajikistan in aspect of the geographical location is in mountainous terms. The pasture of this country is relatively poor and sheep rising in Tajikistan done traditionally, presence of such genes in Hisari sheep is a great success for corrective actions, and it should be make the utmost use. Evaluation of Hardy - Weinberg equilibrium using the X2 test showed that the studied population is not in desired locus of the equilibrium. \r\nStatistical analysis of data of genotype effect on the number of lambs produced in any lambing is significant, so that the ewes with the heterozygous genotype compared to other genotypes showed the highest average number of lambs per birth. Because of low heritability, lambing rate in the sheep, the emergence of this trait only in females and also lack of the incidence it in early animal life, obtaining of genetic markers can be used as a convenient and efficient tool in the selection program. The comparison between the observed and expected distribution of genotypes showed that the population is not in position of the Hardy - Weinberg equilibrium study. This imbalance may be due to the chosen strategy which is applicable in this population. By survey recorded information about the type of ewes lambing over five generations, will determine which records all these ewes have lambing record (either single agents or twin-causing). The statistical comparison between genotypes obtained from the enzyme digestion of GDF-9 gene showed that the genotype has the average condition in offspring production. Existing of GDF-9 hormon in rat (Yan et al., 2001)and also exist of hormone dose of the BMP-15 and GDF-9 in sheep (Juengel et al., 2004) have been reported as important factors for the completion folicologensis, and in inactivation case of this factor, the maximum growth of follicular is to phase type 2 (Juengel et al., 2004). Inactivation of a term of GDF-9 factors in the blood by immunization of Romney sheep breeds causes to increase rates of ovulation and multi-birth. Phenotype of sheep that were treated inactivation (Juengel et al., 2004). This mechanism explains how the effect of inactivating mutations in sheep heterozygous for the GDF-9 genes. In the homozygous ewes for mutation in these genes, inactivation of these factors is complete done, and because of their necessary exist to complete folicologensis, oviduct follicles progress to Stage 2 (Juengel et al., 2004). GDF-9 neutralizing was effective on activity of the corpus luteum and therefore in addition to impact on follicle growth, on the health of ovulation and pregnancy induction is also effective (Juengel et al., 2004). \r\nAn asexual GDF-9 gene on chromosome 5 has a mutation that can increase the rate of ovulation in heterozygous ewes and sterility in homozygous ewes (Hanrahan and Owen, 1985), GDF-9 is similar to BMP-15 and is stimulants granulosa cell proliferation in rat. Some of its features in relation to its effect on granulosa cells compared with BMP-15 are different that probably due to different signaling pathways. First, it inhibits the expression kit lhgand (Otsuka et al., 2000), secondly, inhibits the GDF-9, FSH-induced progesterone and estradiol, while the basal level of progesterone that is mediated by upregulation of genes StAR (astroidogenic regulatory protein), which in turn by prostaglandins E2 is controlled speeds (Otsuka and Shimasaki, 2002). Furthermore, GDF-9 extends synthesis of LH receptors and the cumulus cells. Even if these two biomolecular haven\'t similar messaging pathway, in this collaborative mode causes to granulosa cells multiply, increasing the production of inhibin and reduction of progesterone secretion (Stéphane et al., 2006). \r\nThe researchers showed that this gene plays a key role in fertility and rising levels of ovulation and follicle maturation and our study also confirms the fact that the GDF-9 gene has effective role on fertility and twining of Tajikistan Hisari sheep. According to phenotypic studies conducted in the examined herd, and its comparison with the famous twin sheep, lambing rate of this sheep than to study twining sheep is low that probably due to unfavorable environmental conditions and raising Hisari sheep region. Because of environment acts against reproductive genes, therefore must provide a suitable environment for the improvement of reproduction and fertility status, because the Tajikistan sheep also have reproductive genes as polymorphic form. For considering mutation in the gene GDF-9, it is necessary to use other techniques such as SNP approach that can be used in the country breeding programs and improve of reproductive state and according to the obtained results, it can be said that this gene has a significant effect on the twining in investigated sheep. Finally it can be stated that in the Tajik ethnics this gene exist as polymorphisms that its different phenotypes cause to reproductive or non-reproductive. Regarding to the effect of increasing the number of born lambs or twining on the amount of meat produced per ewes per year, reducing the number of breeding ewes on pasture and prevent of destruction of pastures, it seems that finding the genes with a major effect on twining in different races in Tajikistan country is required as GDF-9.\r\n','Yadollah Bahrami, Sajad Bahrami, Hamid Reza Mohammadi, Vaheid Chekani-Azar and Seyed Azim Mousavizadeh (2014). The Polymorphism of GDF-9 Gene in Hisari Sheep. Biological Forum – An International Journal 6(2): 46-52.\r\n '),(4545,'120','An Investigation on Dietary Supplementation of Coriander (Coriandrum sativum) Seeds on the Food Intake and Microbial Populations of the ceca of Japanese quail (Coturnix japonica)','Orang Esteghamat','10 ORANG ESTEGHAMAT.pdf','',1,'The purpose of the present study was to examine the impact of using coriander seeds in the Japanese quail diet. The researchers intended to examine whether these seeds have an effect on the food intake and the bacterial population of this bird. Hence, a completely randomized experiment was conducted on 360 female Japanese quail chicks. The length of the experiment was 35 days. The experiment included six treatments and there were four repetitions for each treatment. Each repetition included fifteen one-day female chicks in the following way: 1. basic diet consisted of corn, soybean meal, fish meal powder (control diet), 2. Control diet + antibiotic 3. Control diet + 1 % coriander, 4. control diet + 2% coriander, 5. Control diet + 3% coriander, 6. Control diet + 4% coriander. The characteristics of the quails\' food intake and the bacterial population of the ceca were measured at the end of the 35-day experiments and then were statistically analyzed and examined. The results of the present study revealed that there was a significant difference in the average food intake of the experimental treatments (experimental diets) between the first and the second breeding periods (weeks). However, there were no significant differences between the experimental treatments in the third, fourth and fifth weeks. Moreover, the analysis of the variance of average population of the E. coli bacteria of the ceca at the end of the rearing period when the chicks were 35 days old indicated that there were significant differences between the treatments (P< 0.05). ','Japanese quail, food intake, coriander, antibiotic','The purpose of the present study was to examine the impact of using coriander seeds in the Japanese quail diet. The researchers intended to examine whether these seeds have an effect on the food intake and the bacterial population of this bird. Hence, a completely randomized experiment was conducted on 360 female Japanese quail chicks. The length of the experiment was 35 days. The experiment included six treatments and there were four repetitions for each treatment. Each repetition included fifteen one-day female chicks in the following way: 1. basic diet consisted of corn, soybean meal, fish meal powder (control diet), 2. Control diet + antibiotic 3. Control diet + 1 % coriander, 4. control diet + 2% coriander, 5. Control diet + 3% coriander, 6. Control diet + 4% coriander. The characteristics of the quails\' food intake and the bacterial population of the ceca were measured at the end of the 35-day experiments and then were statistically analyzed and examined. The results of the present study revealed that there was a significant difference in the average food intake of the experimental treatments (experimental diets) between the first and the second breeding periods (weeks). However, there were no significant differences between the experimental treatments in the third, fourth and fifth weeks. Moreover, the analysis of the variance of average population of the E. coli bacteria of the ceca at the end of the rearing period when the chicks were 35 days old indicated that there were significant differences between the treatments (P< 0.05). ','Demand for the consumption of poultry is increasing which is due to medical achievements, merits and health advices. Quail is considered to be a bird which has been bred and produced in Iran for the past two decades and with respect to the climatic conditions of Iran and since this bird is compatible with warm weather conditions, the trend in breeding this bird is increasing. The industrial breeding and rearing of quail has been introduced as a solution in reducing the protein deficiency of the diet and nutrition of the developing countries. Also, since there has been an increase in the demand for the meat and egg of quail in Iran, the importance attached to this bird has increased so that the industrial breeding of quail has become a profitable and productive industry throughout the world (Shukuhmand, 2008). Animal science researchers are doing their best to increase the efficient production and breeding of quail in the shortest possible time and without any serious side effects. \r\nRecently, researchers have focused on investigating the impact of including food additives in the diet of these breeding animals (Mahdizadeh et al., 2004). Since there is an antibiotic resistance in breeding and producing poultry these days and these substances lead to the creation of an antibiotic resistance in consumers (humans), there is an essential need for replacing those poultry with better alternatives. On the other hand, the presence of modern methods of detecting antibiotic residues in the carcass of poultry has motivated the breeders and producers to produce poultry which lack antibiotic. Thus, researchers are seeking safe and appropriate alternatives and options with respect to the nutrition and diet of poultry. Some of the important effects of adding coriander to the diet of animals in general and poultry in particular are that it enhances the daily food conversion rate and increases the carcass efficiency and harnesses the natural growth of the poultry (Cabuk et al., 2003; Delagais et al., 2002; Elgayyar et al., 2001).\r\nMATERIALS AND METHOD\r\nA. Distribution and Randomization of the Chicks in the Experimental Groups \r\nThe selection of each experimental group was based on randomization and each four Penn was regarded as a repetition for each treatment. Then, the Penn and treatment number was written in front of each Penn. Hence, each Penn received its own particular diet according to its code and number and the type of designated treatment. Inside each Penn, the chicks were distributed randomly and the weight of each chick was precisely measured. \r\nB. Preparation of experimental diets\r\nthe diets consisted of corn, soybean meals, fish meal powder, salt, lysine, di calcium phosphate, limestone, single vitamins (A, B, D, E, K), soya oil, coriander, supplements which were purchased and kept in a dry store one week before the chicks were bought. \r\nC. Formulating the diets\r\nBefore conducting the experiments, the table of nutrition needs of broilers created by National Research Council was used to check whether sufficient amounts of proteins to produce energy are included in the diets. The arrangements and formulations of the experimental diets were done by means of the UFFDA (User Friendly Feed Formulation Done Again) software. The metabolizable energy of the entire experimental diets in the whole period was 2900 kcal in Kg. The characteristics which were attributed to the diet consumption included an increase in body weight at the end of each experimental period (week) and also the amount of the fatty acid composition of the breast muscles were measured at the end of a 35-day period. \r\nTHE STATISTICAL MODEL AND THE METHOD OF DATA ANALYSIS \r\nInasmuch as all the breeding conditions such as handling and management, diet, etc for the experimented quails were the same, the researchers used complete randomization which included six treatments and four repetitions for each type of treatment. All the data were gathered and stored as an Excel file. Then, to analyze the collected data, researchers used the SAS software. In order to compare the treatments with each other with respect to the mentioned features, the researchers used Duncan\'s multiple range test at the .05 value of probability of chance results or 0.95 probability of non-chance results. \r\nYij = μ + Ti + Eij\r\nThe amount of each control: Yij\r\nThe average population: μ\r\nThe i th effect of the treatment: Ti \r\nExperimental or computational error: Eij \r\n \r\n\r\nRESULTS\r\nA. Food Intake\r\nDuring the first and second breeding periods, there were significant differences between the food intake of the experimental treatments (experimental diets). However, there were no significant differences between the experimental treatments in the other breeding periods, i.e. the third, fourth and fifth periods (P< 0.05). As it was illustrated in table one above, the highest consumption was attributed to the treatment including 0.01 % coriander in the first week and the treatment including 0.04% coriander in the second week. Noticing the obtained results reveal that in all the experimental periods, the first and second experimental treatments including .01% and .04 % coriander had the highest food intake rate but in the rest of the breeding periods, the average food intake among the treatments were almost the same. That is, there were no statistically significant differences among them. In a similar vein, Hamodi et al., (2010) studied the impact of the coriander seeds as a major factor on dependent variables such as performance and physiological features. In their experiment, a number of broilers (ArboAceer) were randomly included in four groups with three repetitions of diet and were bred for 42 days. The chicks were fed according to the following diets: T1 (control), T2 (.01%), T3 (.02%) and T4 (.03%). When the experimental treatments finished, it turned out that the highest food intake was related to T3 (.02% coriander) which was higher than those of other groups. \r\n \r\n\r\nMean values having the same index are not statistically significant (P<.05)\r\n \r\nCOUNTING BACTERIAL POPULATION FOR E. coli AND LACTOBACILLUS IN CECA \r\nTable 3 below shows the comparison of mean values for the bacterial population of E. coli at the end of the breeding period. According to the obtained results, it can be argued that regarding the given experimental treatments, the diet including 0.04 corianders had the \r\n\r\n\r\nhighest E. coli at the end of the period. Then, the diets including 0.01, 0.03 and 0.02 coriander were ranked respectively with regard to the population of E. coli bacteria and the control treatment was at the end of the rank. The diet including had the lowest population of Lactobacillus. As it was observed, the diet including antibiotic had the lowest bacterial population of E. coli. \r\n \r\nDISCUSSION\r\nWith respect to the results of the experiments mentioned above, it can be maintained that using coriander seeds at the levels of .01 and .04 in the initial weeks of breeding quail will result in an increase in the food intake. As mentioned above, in as much as coriander has antimicrobial and antibiotic features, hence, it can enhance the food intake. The plant of coriander is considered to be an herbal and medicinal plant which can be used for treating diabetes and different types of fungi. Moreover, the anti-oxidative and antimicrobial features of coriander have been acknowledged (Hamodi et al., 2010). University researchers in Portugal conducted experiments in which they investigated the impact of oil obtained from coriander with 12 different strains of bacteria such as E. coli, Salmonella, and Bacillus cereus. Also, the studies which were carried out on the major oils obtained from coriander seeds revealed that this oil has a negative impact on Gram positive bacterial, Gram negative bacteria and Saccharomyces cerevisiae (Kohara et al., 2006). \r\n','Orang Esteghamat (2014). An Investigation on Dietary Supplementation of Coriander (Coriandrum sativum) Seeds on the Food Intake and Microbial Populations of the ceca of Japanese quail (Coturnix japonica). Biological Forum – An International Journal 6(2): 53-56.'),(4546,'120','Sport and Medications; Effects or Side-Effects of Generic Therapeutic Drugs','Alireza Lotfi','11 ALIREZA LOTFI.pdf','',1,'Almost many published articles have discussed the effects of doping drugs. Limited resources that is available on the adverse effects of medications, for common health concerns among athletes. Which of antibiotics, sedatives, antidepressants, diuretics are appropriate for athletes consume, or how much, and how to use these medicines, are not available as a comprehensive study. This article reviews common medicines that athletes use and their potential efficacy and interactions with exercise. Present review can create a background for athletes to use therapeutic drugs to consciously do serious damage not put their athletic performance. Present review can discuss on possible effect and side-effect of numerous generic medicines include CNS (central nervous system)-drugs, caffeine, diuretics, Non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drug (NSAIDs), antibiotics and generic psychiatric medication. However, this review is not a complete source for medication use in athletes.','Athletic performance, diuretics, NSAIDs, Psychiatric Medication, therapeutic drugs. ','Almost many published articles have discussed the effects of doping drugs. Limited resources that is available on the adverse effects of medications, for common health concerns among athletes. Which of antibiotics, sedatives, antidepressants, diuretics are appropriate for athletes consume, or how much, and how to use these medicines, are not available as a comprehensive study. This article reviews common medicines that athletes use and their potential efficacy and interactions with exercise. Present review can create a background for athletes to use therapeutic drugs to consciously do serious damage not put their athletic performance. Present review can discuss on possible effect and side-effect of numerous generic medicines include CNS (central nervous system)-drugs, caffeine, diuretics, Non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drug (NSAIDs), antibiotics and generic psychiatric medication. However, this review is not a complete source for medication use in athletes.','Drugs or medications in sport may have serious side-effect on athletic performance. But mainly doping or energetic drugs are discussed or studied in researches [1, 2]. \r\nThe list of doping drugs is published by World Anti-Doping Agency (WADA) [3], continuously. So athletes, coaches and researchers can investigate effects or side-effects of these drugs. In other hand Olympic comity have publications of sportspeople who have been involved in doping offences with novel doping drugs/methods [4]. \r\nOverall categorization of drugs/ medications shows four main groups used by athletes [5]: \r\n(i) Therapeutic drugs by athletes consciously or unconsciously, are used.\r\n(ii) Energetic drugs: Consciously used by athletes to enhance athletic performance.\r\n(iii) Psychiatric medication: Medications to create a happy mood and preventing fatigue and mental stress are used by athletes.\r\n(iv) Hormones: Peptidicor steroid hormones and their analogues, such as growth hormone.\r\nInternet-based searches and literature reviews show numerous research works on energetic drugs, psychiatric and hormonal drugs, and their effects or side-effects on sport and athletic performance. But the published works on side-effects of therapeutic drugs is very limited, and without completive information. \r\nBecause of limitation of available source in this regard, a review on side-effect of therapeutic drugs on athletic performance can be useful for athletes. So, aim of present study is a review on these limited literatures and online sources with focus on therapeutic drugs effects on athletic health and performance. \r\nDRUGS AFFECTING THE CENTRAL NERVOUS SYSTEM (CNS)\r\nThese drugs increase alertness, fatigue, loss of appetite, drowsiness treating many disorders and for the treatment of hyperactivity in children is used.\r\nApplication of athletes: By athletes to increase energy levels, attention and concentration, arousal, behavioral, and are used to raise the level of consciousness. \r\n20% are devoted to drug abuse.\r\nAvois et al., [6] reviewed CNS stimulants in sport practice. Summary of their findings [6] is presented as Table 1.\r\nCAFFEINE AND CAFFEINE-SUPPLEMENTS\r\nDespite considerable research in this area, the role of caffeine as a performance enhancing drug is still controversial (Fig.1) [8]. Some of the data are conflicting, which is in part due to how the experimental studies were designed and what methods were used. However, there is general agreement in a few areas [9]:\r\n(i) Caffeine does not appear to benefit short term, high intensity exercise (eg. sprinting) \r\n(ii) Caffeine can enhance performance in endurance sports. \r\nCoffee and/or caffeine are often reported to be diuretics, so large quantities could lead to poor hydration status pre- or during exercise. With attention to scientific works, it cannot be true that “caffeine has considerable side-effecton athletic performance” [9-10]. \r\n \r\n\r\nDIURETIC DRUGS\r\nThe drugs include a wide class of chemical compounds that can increase urination. These drugs uses in glaucoma (glaucoma eye), acute congestion, pulmonary edema, elevated blood calcium, acute renal failure, increased blood uric acid, high blood pressure, congestive heart failure and diabetes insipidus (Table 2).\r\nbeyond the usual requirements [12]. Currently, endurance athletes before and during the competition and strive to compete at the highest intensity and the longest time taking ibuprofen and other NSAIDs, while the experts do not recommend taking this medicine [12-13]. These include aspirin, ibuprofen, Advil and Motrin, naproxen sodium and Orudis KT [14-15];\r\nTaking NSAIDS (simple mechanism): Inhibition of prostaglandin synthesis \'Prevent from feeling pain.\r\nAll of these drugs block prostaglandins, ones that cause pain as well as those that protect the stomach lining [15]. Taking NSAIDs can sometimes cause stomach upset or GI bleeding. Risk of stomach irritation or gastrointestinal bleeding with long-term use of NSAIDs increases [12, 15]. Several studies have found actual performance benefit ibuprofen, and warn that these drugs may mask pain and this can lead to increased risk of injury [15].\r\nRecommendations for using NSAIDs in athletes, reviewed by Alaranta et al., [12]:\r\n-Used only for a couple of days in case of acute injuries.\r\n-Avoid mixing different kinds of NSAIDs, because of possible gastrointestinal unfavorable effects.\r\n-Paracetamol (acetaminophen) is generic and safer NSAIDs for use in sport medicine.\r\n- Non-oral uses of NSAIDs (cream, gels,) can decreases systamatic adverse effects. \r\n-Long-term use of NSAIDs can inhibit normal hypertrophic response to resistance training. \r\nIn summary, NSAIDs use by endurance athletes has an impact on performance, but muscle damage or soreness may be not understood.It is reasonable to assume that taking NSAIDs have a positive effect on athletic performance. In fact, its use may cause serious health risk to some endurance athletes [15]. \r\nANTIBIOTICS\r\nAntibiotics are commonly uses in sport medicine. Heavy training athletes are in exposure to viral or bacterial infections [12, 16], so oral antibiotics seem a good selection in these athletes [12, 17]. Investigations show that elite athletes use of antibiotics 2.fold more than n=general population of same age [12, 17]. In addition to antibiotic resistance high consumption of drugs, may be cause of posiible gastrointestinal upset and diarrhea [12, 18] and negatively affects athletic performance. Also tendon injuries can be raised from unsuitable use of some antibiotics such as floroquinolones [12, 19]. \r\nBased on published reviews [12, 17, 18], using antibiotics in suitable dosages have not serious adverse effect on athletes performance. Clinical studies show that intravenous antibiotic therapy can improve spiromtry of children with cystic fibrosis [20].\r\nPSYCHIATRIC MEDICATION\r\nAntidepressant, mood stabilizers, anxiety medicines, ADHD medications are common psychiatric medications [21]. Side effects of these group of drugs is summarizes in Table 3. \r\n','Alireza Lotfi (2014). Sport and Medications; Effects or Side-Effects of Generic Therapeutic Drugs .Biological Forum – An International Journal 6(2): 57-61.'),(4547,'120','Diversity, Abundance and Variation of Water Birds at \r\nKolleru Wetland in Andhra Pradesh\r\n','V. Vasudeva Rao, R. Sravan Kumar, G. Surender and B. Laxmi Narayana','12 V VASUDEVA RAO.pdf','',1,'The present paper deals with diversity, abundance and variations of water birds at Kolleru wetland. The study was carried out for a period of five years from March 2007 to July, 2012. A total of 232 species of birds belonging to 62 families and 115 genera were recorded. Among which 101 species are water birds, 133 species are terrestrial birds of which 83 species recorded as migratory birds and 14 species as local migrants. The mean Water bird population varies from 258.36 + 1420.14 to 95.10 + 500.28 whereas terrestrial bird populations 2.47 + 5.72 to 1.69 + 3.73 which is significantly very low. The maximum numbers of 123 species were recorded in the month of March 2007-08 and the minimum number of species about 30 was recorded in the month of July 2010-11. The diversity index is fluctuating with an increasing and decreasing sequence ranging from 1 to 5.3 in overall bird populations and 0.5 to 2.3 in waterfowl populations. Likewise, the diversity and evenness showed variations between the bird richness and density. The lake is facing several threats such as expansion of aquaculture and agriculture in waterfowl areas and other indirect factors include deterioration of water quality, vegetational changes, and disturbance-through boat movements, cattle grazing. Based on the long term studies, proposed conservation measures for sustainability of the waterfowl at Kolleru Lake.','Wetland birds, Kolleru, Andhra Pradesh.','The present paper deals with diversity, abundance and variations of water birds at Kolleru wetland. The study was carried out for a period of five years from March 2007 to July, 2012. A total of 232 species of birds belonging to 62 families and 115 genera were recorded. Among which 101 species are water birds, 133 species are terrestrial birds of which 83 species recorded as migratory birds and 14 species as local migrants. The mean Water bird population varies from 258.36 + 1420.14 to 95.10 + 500.28 whereas terrestrial bird populations 2.47 + 5.72 to 1.69 + 3.73 which is significantly very low. The maximum numbers of 123 species were recorded in the month of March 2007-08 and the minimum number of species about 30 was recorded in the month of July 2010-11. The diversity index is fluctuating with an increasing and decreasing sequence ranging from 1 to 5.3 in overall bird populations and 0.5 to 2.3 in waterfowl populations. Likewise, the diversity and evenness showed variations between the bird richness and density. The lake is facing several threats such as expansion of aquaculture and agriculture in waterfowl areas and other indirect factors include deterioration of water quality, vegetational changes, and disturbance-through boat movements, cattle grazing. Based on the long term studies, proposed conservation measures for sustainability of the waterfowl at Kolleru Lake.','One of the most significant bird sanctuaries in India exists at Kolleru, the largest fresh water lake in Andhra Pradesh with a water spread area of 901 sq.km. Geographically the area lies between 80°5\' to 81°2Q\'E and 16°32\' to 16°57\'N (Fig. 1). The lake is connected to the Bay of Bengal through a narrow tidal creek known as \'Upputeru\' and is fed by 2 rivers, 15 irrigation channels and 15 drains from Krishna and Godavari irrigation system. \r\nThus, the lake swells up during South West monsoon period from August to December. In the summer period, the water spread shrinks to less than 26 sq km of area. This wetland habitat harbours a variety of flora and fauna (Neelakantan 1949), and was declared \'a protected area\' for Pelicans during 1962. Since 1972, the famed pelicanary was abandoned due to ecological disturbance imposed by man (Nagulu & Ramana Rao 1983). Now in the present study, the pelican was reported back from 2008 onwards and started nesting in artificial platforms successfully in all the years of study. In spite of several efforts the lake is facing several threats. These include, the roads, bridges, foreshore farm lots and human habitations which break up the organic continuity of the lake. The sewage influx, industrial effluents and pesticide residues seriously affect the lake environment. The lake is totally covered with exotic floating weeds like Ipomoea aquatica and Salvinia sp. and Eichltomia carpeting huge tracts of water surface. Cyclone visitations and consequent flood are common.\r\nThough the area is declared as a sanctuary, large scale trapping of birds is commonly observed. The present paper explains the diversity, abundance and variation of water birds and various problems faced by Kolleru Wetland and discusses some important conservation measures.\r\nMATERIAL AND METHODS\r\nThe study area was confined to a limited part of the lake of about 4 sq km. Observations were conducted in this area at weekly intervals between March 2007 to July, 2012. The field notes on major bird fauna were mainly taken during forenoon between 7 A.M. to 11 A.M. by using 10 x 50 binoculars. \r\nAt each sampling station, observations were made on population estimations, predators, vegetation changes, land-use patterns and man-made effects like poaching and water level changes. The mean monthly variations were also calculated by employing mean, standard deviation, range and coefficient of variations (Jarvinan and Varsanan 1976). The species diversity index was calculated according to Shannon & Weiner Index.\r\nSD: - ∑ log pi x pi \r\nWhere pi is the relative abundance of ith species \r\nEqually common species: Diversity / log s \r\nWhere, S is number of individuals \r\nThree distinct major habitats are identified in the study area of Komatilanka. These are: (1) Open lake is covered with Ipomoea aquatica, Eichhomia spp. and by a smaller extent Typha and Phragmitis karka. Water depth varies from few inches to 5 feet during floods; (2) bunded and enclosed fish tank area of about 480 ha generally filled with water and kept free of weeds; (3) there is one bed village with population of about 2500. The human interference in study area is limited to footpath on the tank and bunds connecting villages.\r\nRESULTS AND DISCUSSION\r\nIn the present study a total of 232 species of birds belonging to 62 families and 115 genera recorded in a period of five years against the earlier sporadic listing of 222 species of birds by Azeez et al (2011), 60species of birds by Balakrishna (1984) and 196 species of birds by Anjaneyulu (1992). The status of each bird species is determined in relation to the habitat, migration and distribution based on systematic field survey by using standard survey techniques in main core area and also in other areas in various habitats (Table 1).\r\nCategorization of species \r\n(i) 101 species are water birds, inhabiting the open waters and in the wetland vegetation.\r\n(ii) 133 species are terrestrial birds which are observed on the islands, exposed land masses and fish tank bunds either perching or nesting and also on feeding grounds 83 species recorded as migratory birds. These species are seen in this wetland every year only during the months from October to March.\r\n(iii) 14 species are classified as local migrants; their local movements are restricted to small distances either for feeding or breeding (Table 2).\r\n(iv) 137 species are resident birds which are regularly observed while feeding as well as to be breeding in this wetland.\r\n(v) Over 118 species of birds are utilizing the lake for feeding and also for breeding. Out of these, 23 species of water birds are seen in nesting activity.\r\n(vi) 27 species are listed as dominant in the lake based on the density. The most dominant species are migratory wild-ducks and one species of Open bill Stork as local migrant. These birds are observed in thousands. \r\n(vii) 204 species are common that are observed once in a while \r\n(viii) 11 species are rare which are recorded occasionally.\r\n(ix) 7species are very rarely observed.\r\nThe estimates of the annual bird population variations were studied from July 2007 to July 2012. The variations of bird populations including terrestrial and aquatic birds are illustrated (Table 3). A significant decrease in bird populations was noticed in recent years. The mean maximum population of 57.7 + 327.6 was recorded in the first year 2007-08 and the mean value has been gradually decreased in the consequent years, the mean minimum 38.4 + 242.7 was recorded in 2009-10. Further, the populations of water birds were compared with that of terrestrial birds. The mean Water bird population varies from 258.36 + 1420.14 to 95.10 + 500.28 whereas terrestrial bird populations 2.47 + 5.72 to 1.69 + 3.73 which is significantly very low. Monthly variations in total bird number as well as species number for total birds and water birds were shown in Fig.2 and 3. The significant increase in the individual number and species number were found to be higher from November to April in all the five years census counts and these numbers were lower from May to September. \r\n \r\n\r\nA maximum of 64 species of waterfowl were recorded in March 2007-08 and the minimum 14 species were recorded in July and August 2011-12. Whereas, the individual number varies from 62,028 in February 2007-08 individuals in August 2009-10. In the five years of monthly counts significant variations of bird populations were observed during the winter season when the migratory birds arrive at this wetland. The terrestrial birds do not have any correlation with waterfowl populations as their numbers were significantly low and the populations were almost constant throughout the year. This attributes to lack of proper tree cover in the vicinity of Kolleru wetland and other suitable habitat features not congenial to terrestrial bird life.\r\nSpecies Diversity and Evenness\r\nDiversity indicates the richness of species both in quality and quantity. The total number of birds did not employ the concept of the diversity. Several factors such as area, water depth and habitat diversity might influence the diversity of species (Krebs, 1982). The diversity also influenced by species heterogeneity (Simpson 1969; Mac Arthur 1965) or climatic irregularity (Klopfer 1959, Mac Arthur 1965 and Rotenbern 1978). The present study of diversity is not correlated with the climatic and habitat variation parameters, but the diversity index formulates with the richness and evenness of the species. This has been illustrated in the (Table. 4, 5).\r\nThe maximum number of 123 species having an average bird number 26,078 having 1.20 diversity and 0.36 evenness in 2007-08. The maximum representation of 101 species having 11,222 birds has shown 1.88 diversity and 0.55 evenness in 2011-12. In waterfowl populations maximum 64 species having 26,303 birds recorded in 2007-08 has 1.47 species diversity and 0.35evenness. The minimum representation of 54 species having 16,844 exhibits the species diversity 2.00 and the evenness 0.52 in the year 2009-10. The diversity index is fluctuating with an increasing and decreasing sequence ranging from 1 to 5.3 in overall bird populations and 0.5 to 2.3 in waterfowl populations. Likewise the diversity the evenness is also fluctuating, the evenness varies between 0.20-0.80 in all the bird populations including water birds. Thus no empirical relationship is exiting between the bird diversity and evenness. \r\nThe implications of the results are set in the tables and figures clearly which indicates that the number of species and the number of individuals have significantly decreased in the recent years. This is due to the expansion of aquaculture and agriculture in waterfowl areas in recent years. The other indirect factors include deterioration of water quality, vegetational changes, and disturbance – through boat movements, cattle grazing, constriction of road bridges and poaching. Similar observations were recorded elsewhere in India (Anjaneyulu 1984, Vijayan 1987). \r\nTaher and Taher (1996) Vijay Kumar and Choudary (1994) and Sabesh, (2010). Many workers (Bolen 1982, Fredrickson, 1986) studied the causative factors affecting on bird populations in the wetlands of United States and in Canada. The numbers of many common waterfowl have decreased dramatically and many species have become extinct or extrapolated due to the destruction of wetland habitat (Fedrickson 1982). The same holds true to a great extent for Kolleru Wetland also.\r\nThe current use of land for human habitations and for road & bridge construction should be stopped otherwise it resulted in to breaking up organic continuity of the lake. Efficient treatment of human refuse and garbage will minimize organic pollution. The practice of using exposed lakebed for agriculture is to be discouraged. The shift to extensive fish culturing in a large number of fishponds has to be carefully planned. To mitigate the effect on the wetland more effective steps for control of poaching should be mounted for habitat preservation. \r\n','V. Vasudeva Rao, R. Sravan Kumar, G. Surender and B. Laxmi Narayana (2014).Diversity, Abundance and Variation of Water Birds at Kolleru Wetland in Andhra Pradesh.Biological Forum – An International Journal 6(2): 62-76.\r\n'),(4548,'120','Oribatid Mite (Acari: Oribatida) Fauna of Konkan, Maharashtra, India with New Records','Shelley Acharya and Paramita Basu','13 SHELLEY ACHARYA AND PARAMITA BASU.pdf','',1,'The present work deals with a collection of soil oribatid mites from some selected habitat of five districts of Konkan Region of the Maharashtra state. 18 species, 17 genera belonging to 13 families of soil oribatid mites were recorded from the present investigation. As this region is totally unexplored all the species and genera found are new records from the Maharashtra state with 2 new records from India.','Oribatid mites, Konkan region, Maharashtra, new records.','The present work deals with a collection of soil oribatid mites from some selected habitat of five districts of Konkan Region of the Maharashtra state. 18 species, 17 genera belonging to 13 families of soil oribatid mites were recorded from the present investigation. As this region is totally unexplored all the species and genera found are new records from the Maharashtra state with 2 new records from India.','Although tiny themselves, mites belong to most impressive lineage of animals, the arthropods. They are ubiquitous in every sort of aquatic, terrestrial, arboreal and parasitic habitat but, being among the smallest arthropods, even those inhabiting well studied systems are often overlooked. It is estimated that there are about 9000 species of soil oribatid mites belonging to 800 genera are presently known from the world. \r\nWhen compared the state Maharashtra is so far known to comprise only 4 Oribatid species belonging to 3 genera and 2 families as against 2186 species belonging to 643 genera and 207 families reported from India. Narsapur (1983) made the first record of Oribatid mite from Maharashtra from the soils of the state. Later Sanyal (1984) studied soil mites of Maharashtra and published one paper containing description of two new species. No work has been done on soil oribatid mites after that. \r\nThe present paper is based on a Collection of soil oribatid mites from the Konkan region of the state Maharashtra. An account of 18 species, 17 genera belonging to 13 families are provided here, with details of collection data. The oribatid fauna of this region is practically unexplored and the present account will form a basis for future research on this group from the area.\r\nKonkan division is one of the six administrative divisions of Maharashtra state in India. It comprises the Konkan region, which occupies the entire west coast of Maharashtra. The two districts in the state capital Mumbai also fall in Konkan division. The total area comprises 30,746 km2 and districts Mumbai, Mumbai Suburban, Raigad, Ratnagiri, Sindhudurg and Thane. Collections were made from soil and litter from different habitats.\r\nMATERIAL AND METHODS \r\nFor taxonomic studies of oribatid mites, litter, soil and humus samples from all possible habitats were collected. The samples Collected by shovel from upper 10 cm soil profile were kept in polythene bags. The samples were extracted by using modified Tullgren funnels and extracted mite specimens were collected in glass tubes containing 70% alcohol.\r\nThe body of most of the oribatid mite is heavily sclerotized and opaque. The extracted material were made ready for taxonomic study following the usual procedure of keeping the specimen in solution of 90% alcohol and lactic acid (v/v) as advocated by Balogh (1965). For microscopic observations, Balogh’s (1965) method of temporary mounting in lactic acid was followed. After necessary microscopic observations the specimen was transferred in small glass vials containing 90% alcohol. The vials were then properly labelled and stored.\r\nThe specimens were studied under Nikon Eclipse, 50i microscope. In this study, the classification proposed by Balogh (1972) has been followed.\r\nAll specimens are deposited in the National Zoological Collections of Zoological Survey of India, HQs., Kolkata.\r\nStudy Area: The districts of Konkan Region (Marked in red) of Maharashtra were surveyed. \r\nRESULTS \r\nSYSTEMATIC ACCOUNT\r\n1. Family: PHTHIRACARIDAE Perty, 1841\r\n1. Genus: Hoplophorella Berlese,1923\r\n1923. Hoplophorella Berlese, Redia, 25: 260.\r\n1. Hoplophorella scapellata Aoki,1965\r\n1965. Hoplophorella scapellata Aoki, Nat. Life Southeast Asia, 4:131.\r\nMaterial Examined:1♂,Varsoli Sea Beach,Raigad, Maharashtra, 21.ix.2013 from soil & litter,Coll. S. Acharya, 4979/17/ZSIHQ. \r\nDistribution: India:West Bengal, Bihar, Manipur.\r\n2. Family: LOHMANIDAE Berlese, 1916 \r\n2. Genus: Annectacarus Grandjean, 1950 1950. Annectacarus Grandjean, Arch. Zool. exp. gen. Paris, 87:131\r\n2. Annectacarus sp. \r\nMaterial Examined: 1♂, Aareycolony, Mumbai, Maharashtra, 13.ix.2013 from Soil & Litter, Coll. S. Acharya, 4962/17/ZSI HQ.\r\n3. Genus: Javacarus Balogh,1961\r\n1961. Javacarus Balogh, Acta. Zool. Acad. Sci. Hung., 7: 24\r\n3. Javacarus sp.\r\nMaterial Examined: 1♂, Basari Village, Ratnagiri, Maharashtra, 25.ix.2013 from Soil & Litter, Coll. S. Acharya,4981/17ZSI HQ ;1♀ , Varsoli Sea Beach, Raigad, Maharashtra, 21.ix.2013 from soil & litter, Coll. S. Acharya, 4982/17 ; 1♀, Nagaon Village, Raigad, Maharashtra, 17.ix.2013 from Soil & Litter, Coll. S. Acharya,4983/17/ZSIHQ.\r\n3. Family: TRHYPOCHTHONIDAE Willman,1931\r\n4. Genus: Allonothrus Van der Hammen,1953\r\n1953. Allonothrus Hammen, Proc. Acad. Sci. Amst., 56C: 244. \r\n4. Allonothrus russeolus russeolus Wallwork, 1960\r\n1960. Allonothrus russeolus Wall work Acarologia, 2(4): 571\r\nMaterial Examined: 1♂, Nagaon Village, Raigad, Maharashtra, 22.ix.2013 from Soil and Litter, Coll. S. Acharya, 4961/17/ZSIHQ.\r\nDistribution: India: West Bengal, Assam.\r\n4. Family: GYMNODAMAEIDAE Grandjean, 1954\r\n5. Genus: Gymnodamaeus Kulczynski, 1902 (=Plesiodamaeus Grandjean, 1954)\r\n1954.Plesiodamaeus Grandjean, Bull. Soc. zool. France, 78: 421-446.\r\n5. Gymnodamaeus glaber (Mihelčič, 1957) (=Plesiodamaeus glaber Mihelčič, 1957) \r\n1957. Plesiodamaeus glaber Mihelcic, Zool. Anz., 159: 41-68.\r\nMaterial Examined: 2♂, Ratnagiri Fort, Ratnagiri, Maharashtra, 25.ix.2013 from Soil and Litter, Coll. S. Acharya,4992/17/ZSIHQ; 1 ♂, Majiwara, Thane, Maharashtra, 16.ix.2013 from Soil and litter, Coll. S. Acharya, 4993/17/ZSIHQ.\r\nRemarks: The species is recorded for the first time from India.\r\n5. Family: MICROZETIDAE Grandjean, 1936\r\n6. Genus: Orthozetes Balogh, 1962\r\n1962. Orthozetes Balogh, Opusc. Zool. Budapest, 4: 35-38.\r\n6.Orthozetes dispar Balogh, 1962\r\n1962. Orthozetes Balogh, Opusc. Zool. Budapest, 4: 35-38.\r\nMaterial Examined: 1♂, Ratnagiri Fort, Ratnagiri, Maharashtra, 25.ix.2013 from Soil and Litter, Coll. S. Acharya, 4990/17/ZSIHQ.\r\nRemarks: The species is recorded for the first time from India.\r\n6. Family: EREMOBELBIDAE Balogh,1961\r\n7. Genus: Eremobelba Berlese, 1908s\r\n1908. Eremobelba Berlese, Redia, 5(1): 9.\r\n7. Eremobelba sp.\r\nMaterial Examined: 3♂, Basari Village, Ratnagiri, Maharashtra, 25.ix.2013 from Soil & Litter, Coll. S. Acharya,4965/17ZSI HQ.\r\n7. Family: BASILOBELBIDAE Balogh,1961\r\n8. Genus: Basilobelba Balogh, 1958\r\n1958. Basilobelba Balogh, Rev. Zool. Bot.Afr.,58 : 9.\r\n8. Basilobelba sp.\r\nMaterial Examined: 1♂, Dadar Railway Colony, Mumbai, Maharashtra, 13.ix.2013 from soil and litter, Coll. S Acharya,4963/17/ZSIHQ.\r\n8. Family: TECTOCEPHEIDAE Grandjean,1954.\r\n9. Genus: Tectocepheus Berlese,1896\r\n1896. Tectocepheus Berlese, Acari Myriopoda et Scorpioneshucusque in Italia reperta.Ordo Cruptostigmata (Oribatidae. (Cryptostigmata II). Portici.\r\n9.Tectocepheus velatus (Michael,1880)\r\n1880. Tectocepheus velatus (Michael), Journ. Roy. Micr. Soc., 3(2): 190 \r\nMaterial Examined: 1♂, Basari Village, Ratnagiri, Maharashtra, 25.ix.2013 from Soil & Litter, Coll. S. Acharya, 5029/17ZSI HQ; 1♂, Kihim Village, Raigad, Maharashtra, 22.ix.2013 from Soil and litter, Coll. S. Acharya,5030/17/ZSIHQ. \r\nDistribution: India: West Bengal, Orissa, Bihar, Himachal Pradesh, Sikkim. \r\n9. Family:OPPIIDAE Grandjean, 1951 \r\n10. Genus: Brachioppiella Hammer, 1962 \r\n1962. Brachioppiella Hammer, Biol. Skr. Dan. Vid. Selsk., 13: 1-17. \r\n10.Brachioppiella periculosa Hammer, 1962\r\n 1962. Brachioppiella Hammer, Biol. Skr. Dan. Vid. Selsk.,13: 1-17. \r\nMaterial Examined:1♂, Aarey colony, Mumbai, Maharashtra, 13.ix.2013 from Soil and Litter, Coll. S. Acharya, 4964/17/ZSI HQ. \r\nDistribution: Uttarakhand. 11. Genus: Multioppia Hammer, 1961 1961. Multioppia Hammer, Biol. Skr. Dan. Vid. Selsk., 13(1): 61.11.\r\n Multioppia stellifera Hammer, 1961\r\n1961. Mulotioppia stellifera Hammer, Biol. Skr. Dan. Vid. Selsk., 13(1):63. \r\nMaterial Examined: 1♂, Kihim Village, Raigad, Maharashtra, 22.ix.2013 from Soil and litter, Coll. S. Acharya,5030/17/ZSIHQ. Distribution: India: West Bengal, Uttar Pradesh. \r\n12. Genus Oppia Koch,1836 1836. Oppia Koch, Deutschlands crustaceen, Myriapoden und Arachniden, 1-9.\r\n12. Lasiobelba kuehnelti (Csiszar, 1961) (= Oppia kuehnelti Csiszar, 1961)\r\n1961. Oppia kuehnelti Csiszar, Acta zool. Hung.,7: 345-366.\r\nMaterial Examined: 1♂, Nagaon Village, Raigad, Maharashtra, 22.ix.2013 from Soil and Litter, Coll. S. Acharya, 4989/17/ZSIHQ.\r\nDistribution: West Bengal, Assam, Kerala, Tripura, Sikkim, Manipur, Gujarat, Arunachal Pradesh, Mizoram.\r\n10. Family: ORIBATELLIDAE Jacot, 1925\r\n13. Genus: Lamellobates Hammer, 1958\r\n1958. Lamellobates Hammer, Biol. Skr. Dan. Vid. Selsk., 10(1): 100.\r\n13. Lamellobates palustris Hammer, 1958\r\n1958. Lamellobates palustris Hammer, Biol. Skr. Dan. Vid. Selsk., 10(1): 100.\r\nMaterial Examined: 5♂ Ratnagiri Fort, Ratnagiri, Maharashtra, 25.ix.2013 from Soil and Litter Coll. S. Acharya, 4984/17/ZSIHQ; 1♂, Basari Village, Ratnagiri, Maharashtra, 25.ix.2013from Soil and Litter, Coll. S. Acharya, 4985/17/ZSIHQ; 1♂, Majiwara, Thane, Maharashtra, 16.ix.2013 from Soil and litter, Coll. S. Acharya, 4986/17/ZSIHQ; 2♂, Kihim Village, Raigad, Maharashtra, 22.ix.2013from Soil and litter, Coll. S. Acharya, 4987/17/ZSIHQ.\r\nDistribution:West Bengal, Bihar, Tripura, Uttar Pradesh.\r\n11. Family: SCHELORIBATIDAE Jacot, 1935\r\n14. Genus: Scheloribates Berlese, 1908\r\n1908. Scheloribates Berlese, Redia, 5: 2.\r\n14. Scheloribates curvialatus Hammer, 1961\r\n1961. Scheloribates curvialatus Hammer, Biol. Skr. Dan Vid. Selsk., 21(4):35.\r\nMaterial Examined: 1♂, Nagaon Village, Raigad, Maharashtra, 22.ix.2013 from Soil and Litter, Coll. S. Acharya,5015/17/ZSIHQ; 1♀, Varsoli Sea Beach, Raigad, Maharashtra, 21.ix.2013 from soil and litter, Coll. S. Acharya, 5016/17/ZSIHQ; 2♂, Mahakali Cave, Andheri, Mumbai, Maharashtra, 15.ix. 2013 from Soil and Litter, Coll. S. Acharya, 5017/17/ZSIHQ; 5♂, Ratnagiri Fort, Ratnagiri, Maharashtra, 25.ix.2013 from Soil and Litter, Coll. S. Acharya, 5018/17;1♂, Aarey Colony, Andheri Mumbai, Maharashtra, 13.ix.2013 from Soil & litter, Coll. S Acharya; 5019/17/ZSIHQ; 3♂, Basari Village, Ratnagiri, Maharashtra, 25.ix.2013 from Soil and Litter, Coll. S. Acharya, 5020/17/ZSIHQ.\r\nDistribution: West Bengal, Himachal Pradesh, Uttar Pradesh.\r\n\r\n15. Scheloribates huancayensis Hammer, 1961\r\n1961. Scheloribates huancayensis Hammer, Biol. Skr. Dan Vid. Selsk., 21(4):35.\r\nMaterial Examined: 45 ♂ , Nagaon Village, Raigad, Maharashtra, 22.ix.2013 from Soil and Litter, Coll. S. Acharya, 5022/17/ZSIHQ; 4♂ Varsoli Sea Beach, \r\nRaigad, Maharashtra, 21.ix.2013 from soil and litter, Coll. S. Acharya, 5023/17/ZSIHQ; 8♂, Kurla drainage area, Andheri, Mumbai, Maharashtra, 14.ix.2013 from Soil and Litter, Coll. S. Acharya,5024/17/ZSIHQ; 8♂, Basari Village, Ratnagiri, Maharashtra, 25.ix.2013 from Soil and litter, 5025/17/ZSIHQ.\r\nDistribution: West Bengal, Assam, Himachal Pradesh.\r\n12. Family: HAPLOZETIDAE Grandjean, 1936\r\n15. Genus: Trachyoribates Berlese,1908\r\n1908. Trachyoribates Berlese, Redia, 5(1): 3.\r\n16. Trachyoribates (Rostrozetes) ovulum Berlese\r\n(= Rostrozetes foveolatus Sellnick, 1925) \r\n1908. Trachyoribates (Rostrozetes) ovulum Berlese, Redia, 5(1): 3.\r\nMaterial Examined: Ratnagiri Fort 21♂ Ratnagiri Fort, Ratnagiri, Maharashtra, 25.ix.2013 from Soil and Litter, Coll. S. Acharya, 5006/17/ZSIHQ; 1♂, Ganapatipule Temple, Ratnagiri, Maharashtra, 25.ix.2013 from Soil and Litter, Coll. S. Acharya, 5007/17/ZSIHQ;1 ♂, Nagaon Village, Raigad, Maharashtra, 22.ix.2013 from Soil and Litter, Coll. S. Acharya, 5008/17/ZSIHQ; 3♂, D.F.O. Office Area, Thane, Maharashtra, 19.ix.2013 from Soil and Litter, S. Acharya, 5009/17/ZSIHQ; 2♂, Basari Village, Ratnagiri, Maharashtra, 25.ix.2013 from Soil and litter, 5010/17/ZSIHQ; 2♂, Kihim Village, Raigad, Maharashtra, 22.ix.2013 from Soil and litter, Coll. S Acharya, 5011/17/ZSIHQ; 1♂, Aarey Colony, Andheri Mumbai, Maharashtra, 13.ix.2013 from Soil and litter, Coll. S Acharya; 5012/17/ZSIHQ; 1♂, Basari Village, Ratnagiri, Maharashtra, 25.ix.2013from Soil and litter, 5013/17/ZSIHQ; 1♂, Kopri Pole Area, Thane, Maharashtra, 17.ix.2013 from Soil and Litter, Coll. Dr. S.Acharya,5014/17/ZSIHQ. \r\nDistribution: West Bengal, Bihar, Tripura, Himachal Pradesh.\r\n16. Genus: Protoribates Berlese\r\n1908. Protoribates Berlese, Redia, 5:1-15.\r\n17. Protoribates (P.) magnus (Aoki, 1982) (=Xylobates magnus Aoki, 1982)\r\n1982. Xylobates magnus Aoki, Bull. Inst. Sci. Tech. YokohamaNatn.Univ.8:173-188. \r\nMaterial Examined:4 ♂, Nagaon Village, Raigad, Maharashtra, 22.ix.2013 from Soil and Litter, Coll. S. Acharya,4994/17/ZSIHQ ; 11♂, Kurla drainage area, Andheri, Mumbai, Maharashtra, 14.ix.2013 from Soil and Litter, Coll. S. Acharya,4995/17/ZSIHQ; 1 ♂, Dadar Railway Colony, Mumbai, Maharashtra,13.ix.2013 from soil and litter, Coll. S. Acharya, 4996/17;1♂, Aarey Colony, Andheri Mumbai, Maharashtra, \r\n\r\n13.ix.2013 from Soil and litter, Coll. S. Acharya; 4997/17/ZSIHQ; 6 ♂ Dadar Nursery Area, Mumbai, Maharashtra,14.ix.2013 from Soil and Litter, Coll. S. Acharya, 4998/17/ZSIHQ; 4♂, Mandavgaon, Raigad, Maharashtra, 22.ix.2013 from soil and litter, Coll. S. Acharya,4999/17/ZSIHQ; 39 ♂ Varsoli Sea Beach, Raigad, Maharashtra, 21.ix.2013 from soil and litter, Coll. S. Acharya, 5000/17/ZSIHQ; 4♂, Mahakali Cave, Andheri, Mumbai, Maharashtra, 15.ix.2013 from Soil and Litter, Coll. S. Acharya, 5001/17/ZSIHQ; 14♂, Kihim Village, Raigad, Maharashtra, 22.ix.2013 from Soil and litter, Coll. S. Acharya, 5002/17/ZSIHQ; 1♂, Brindavan Village, Thane, Maharashtra, 16.ix.2015 from Soil and litter, Coll. S. Acharya, 5003/17/ZSIHQ;4 ♂ Varsoli Sea Beach, Raigad, Maharashtra, 21.ix.2013 from soil and litter, Coll. S. Acharya, 5004/17/ZSIHQ;1 ♂, Nagaon Village, Raigad, Maharashtra, 22.ix.2013 from Soil and Litter, Coll. S. Acharya, 5005/17/ZSIHQ.\r\n Distribution: Himachal Pradesh. \r\n13. Family:GALUMNIDAE Jacot, 1925 \r\n17. Genus Galumna (Galumna) Heyden 1826. Galumna (Galumna) Heyden, Isis Oken, 18: 611.\r\n18. Galumna sp.\r\nMaterial Examined: 3♂, Ganapatipule Temple, Ratnagiri, Maharashtra, 25.ix.2013 from Soil and Litter, Coll. S. Acharya, 4966/17/ZSIHQ ;1♂, Aarey Colony, Andheri Mumbai, Maharashtra, 13.ix.2013 from Soil and litter, Coll. S. Acharya; 4967/17/ZSIHQ, 7♂ Ratnagiri Fort, Ratnagiri, Maharashtra, 25.ix.2013 from Soil and Litter, Coll.S. Acharya, 4968/17/ZSIHQ; 7 ♂, Nagaon Village, Raigad, Maharashtra, 22.ix.2013 from Soil & Litter, Coll. S. Acharya, 4969/17/ZSIHQ ; 4♂, Mandavgaon, Raigad, Maharashtra, 22.ix.2013 from soil & litter, Coll. S. Acharya, 4970/17/ZSIHQ; 2♂, Kudal Village, Sawantwari, Sindhudurg, Maharashtra, 28.ix.2013from Soil and litter, Coll. S. Acharya,4971/17/ZSIHQ; 1 ♂, Kalyan, Thane, Maharashtra,12.ix.2013`from Soil & Litter, Coll. S. Acharya, 4972/17/ZSIHQ;1♂, Basari Village, Ratnagiri, Maharashtra, 25.ix.2013from Soil and litter, 4973/17/ZSIHQ;1 ♂, Majiwara, Thane, Maharashtra,16.ix.2013 from Soil and litter,Coll. S. Acharya,4974/17; 1♂, Mahakali Cave, Andheri, Mumbai, Maharashtra, 15.ix.2013 from Soil and Litter, Coll. S. Acharya, 4975/17/ZSIHQ; 8♂, Kihim Village, Raigad, Maharashtra, 22.ix.2013from Soil and litter, Coll. S. Acharya, 4976/17/ZSIHQ.\r\n','Shelley Acharya and Paramita Basu (2014). Oribatid Mite (Acari: Oribatida) Fauna of Konkan, Maharashtra, India with New Records .Biological Forum – An International Journal 6(2): 77-81.'),(4549,'120','The Application of Statistical Distributions to Fit the Diameter and Height of a Species of Broad Leaf in Hirkanian Forests','Mir Mozaffar Fallahchai and Soheil Shokri','14 MIR MOZAFFAR FALLAHCHAI.pdf','',1,'In order to Study the fit quality of some of the important quantitative characteristics of Fagus species such as diameter at breast height (D.B.H) and total height with the use of statistical distribution sparcel 751 in Siyahkal forests in north of Iran with a measurement of 68 hectares was selected containing Fagus stands in all- age and height levels and non-interference stand health. In this parcel net a vector statistics with dimensions 100 × 200 meters has been accomplished through a Random-systematic method, and 20 circle-shape pieces with 10R (1000m2) measurements were made. In each sample piece, the diameter and height of all trees thicker than 7.5cm were measured. In order to fit these characteristics Beta, Weibull, Gamma, Normal, Log normal and Exponential statistical distributions were used. The results obtained from Kolmogrof-smirnov (K.S.) showed that the Normal distribution has caused a good fit for Fagus trees diameter distribution and the Beta distribution has the potential to explain the trees height.','Fit, Statistical distributions, Fagus, Iran\'s north forests','In order to Study the fit quality of some of the important quantitative characteristics of Fagus species such as diameter at breast height (D.B.H) and total height with the use of statistical distribution sparcel 751 in Siyahkal forests in north of Iran with a measurement of 68 hectares was selected containing Fagus stands in all- age and height levels and non-interference stand health. In this parcel net a vector statistics with dimensions 100 × 200 meters has been accomplished through a Random-systematic method, and 20 circle-shape pieces with 10R (1000m2) measurements were made. In each sample piece, the diameter and height of all trees thicker than 7.5cm were measured. In order to fit these characteristics Beta, Weibull, Gamma, Normal, Log normal and Exponential statistical distributions were used. The results obtained from Kolmogrof-smirnov (K.S.) showed that the Normal distribution has caused a good fit for Fagus trees diameter distribution and the Beta distribution has the potential to explain the trees height.','Iran\'s north Fagus forests are considered as one of the most valuable forest types in a way that this species alone forms 23.63 percent of number and 29.96 percent of volume of Iran\'s commercial and industrial forests. The continual decrease of these forest areas due to different reasons has made performing research regarding this valuable species necessary. This research too have been performed with the purpose of obtaining a better recognition of Fagus trees stands and the fitting of some of their important quantitative characteristics by the use of statistical distributions, so by applying these findings a better management would be performed for forests. The communities\' individual statistical parameters change during time, so recognizing the quality of these changes helps the researcher a lot in comparing the present and the ideal situation. The study of trees\' diameter at breast height in a forest stand has a very important role in the growth and production of stands (Burnhan, 2002; Lu et al., 2003; Li-feng and Xin-nian, 2010). In this study too based on the existing studies and experiences for fitting the diameter and height, the Beta, Weibull, Gamma, Exponential, Normal and Log normal distributions were used. In one of the studies in this realm in order to consider the quality of trees\' diameter at breast height and their fit with the use of statistical distributions, four one-hectare sample pieces in northern, southern, eastern and western directions of southern slope of Iran\'s northern Fagus forests were randomly selected.\r\n In order to fit the data, the Beta, Gamma, Power, Exponential, Weibull, Normal and Log normal distributions were used. The results obtained from the χ2 test showed that the Beta distribution in southern, western, and eastern directions and the Exponential distribution in western direction have provided a good fit for trees\' diameter distribution (Fallahchai, 2011). In another study Nord-Larson and Cao (2006) in order to present a model for diameter distribution of even-aged Fagus trees in Denmark considered the Weibull distribution and realized that the application of this distribution was appropriate. Cao (2004) in a study on Pinusteada, used collected data from twenty 0.6 hectare sample pieces. The description of trees\' diameter distribution was done by the help of three- parameter Weibull distribution, and for predicting the distribution parameters he used variables such as number in hectare, dominant height, age of the stand trees and the relative distance between trees. Nanang (1998) in a study on Azadirachta indica in Ghana used the three Weibull, Normal and log normal distributions. The K.S-test result showed that from the evaluation done in different age groups, the Log normal distribution had a desirable fit. In another study in natural forests of the Jian province of China Li-feng and Xin-nian (2010) by applying the Weibull, Beta, Gamma, and Exponential statistical models concluded that the Weibull distribution model compared to the other models had a better fit potential for trees\' diameter in different accumulations\r\nAlso, Zhang and Lei (2010) used collected data from the permanent 0.067 hectare plots of Pinus tabulaeformis during 5 years in north western forests of Beijing province in China and concluded that among the applied statistical models the Weibull distribution had more power deter mining the diameter distribution of Pinus tabulaeformis infixed sample pieces.\r\nMATERIALS AND METHODS\r\nThe studied area with (68 hectares) is located in the western part of Siyahkal Shenroud forests of Guilan province in north of Iran. The series total area is 3077 hectares and includes 56 parcels. Its dimensions according to the UTM system is located among 50’’ 47’ 49° longitude and 30’’ 35’ 36° latitude. The studied piece is located among the height domains of 850 to 1000 meters above the sea level, and its general slope is towards north. The average slope is about 10 to 40 percent. From the penology point of view the soil type is acidic forest brown with argillaceous loam average tissue and its pH is acidic. The annual average precipitation is 1266.5 millimeters, and its annual average heat is 16° centigrade.\r\n From the tree cover point of view, the studied area contains uneven aged stands of pure Fagus and accompanying species of Alnussubcordata, Carpinusbetulus, Quereuscastaneifolia Area velutinum, Zelkovacarpinifolia, Sorbustorminalis and Tiliabegunifilia. In this parcel 238 fagus trees from 20 circle- shape sample pieces with 10R area measurement in an inventory net with dimensions100 × 200 were measured. In these pieces diameter at breast height (D.B.H) and the total height of all trees thicker than 7.5cm were measured.\r\nRESULTS\r\nFagus trees diameter fit. In Fig. 1 the curves related to the comparison between the observed frequencies and evaluated frequencies from Fagus species diameter probability distributions in the studied area are presented.\r\nIn order to study the fit power of applied probability distributions in this study, the KS- test was used, by considering the obtained results it has become clear that the Normal distribution having the least statistic has caused a good fit for Fagus trees diameter distributions (Table 1).\r\n \r\nEvaluating the method of number distribution in forest stand diameter levels, it could be used as a pattern for leading other stands. The use of suitable statistical models for predicting the trees number distribution status in a forest stand is not only important estimating the production type inventory in different ages, but it could also be useful in the programming of forests and can guarantee an optimal biologic and economical production and the stability of the stand. According to the present study and other studies done in this field, we can reach the result that probability distributions are useful in estimation and manner of diameter, height and other quantitative characteristics of distribution patterns. Studies in the field of fitting trees diameter frequency by the use of probability distributions has begun recently in Iran, but it is at the beginning of its way. Studies of Namiranian (1990), Mataji et al. (2000) in Garazbonarea of khairoud kenar, Nowshahr, showed that the Weibull and Beta distributions were suitable for diameter at breast height. \r\nMohammad Alizadeh et al. (2009), in Garazbon area, have introduced the Gamma distribution with more capability for explaining diameter at breast height that is not compatible with the result of our study since among the applied distributions in our study the Normal one has caused a suitable fit for Fagus trees diameter distribution in the studied area. In another study performed by Fallahchai (2011) for the purpose of studying the procedure of the Fagus trees\' diameter at breast height distribution and their fit by statistical distributions, it has been shown that the Beta distribution in eastern, western and southern directions, and the Exponential distributions in western direction have provided a good fit for trees diameter distribution. In comparing the results of this current study with other studies in other countries, as most of them have been performed in even-aged and conifer stands, the comparison would not be so desirable. As an example, Nord-Larson (2006) considered the Weibull distribution suitable for trees diameter distribution. \r\nCao (2004) introduced the three- parameter Weibull distribution for describing pinusteada trees diameter distribution. Li-feng and Xin-nian (2010) claimed that the Weibull distribution in comparison with other distributions has more fitting power for trees\' diameter in different accumulations, and Zhang and Lei (2010) introduced the Weibull distribution with more fit power for explaining pinustabulae diameter distribution in north western forests of China. Regarding trees height frequency fit, since up to now similar studies have not been done, an appropriate comparison couldn\'t be performed with other researches. But this study showed that the Beta distribution in comparison with other distribution has the power to explain trees\' height. According to the points mentioned, it seems that accessing a suitable model in a forest would be different noticing its site characteristics and conditions. So it has to be admitted that the results obtained here are influenced by this study\'s available data, and in other studies different results might be obtained.\r\n','Mir Mozaffar Fallahchai and Soheil Shokri (2014). The Application of Statistical Distributions to Fit the Diameter and Height of a Species of Broad Leaf in Hirkanian Forests. Biological Forum – An International Journal 6(2): 82-85.'),(4550,'120','Life Cycle and Morphometric Measurement of \r\nCallosobruchus analis on Gram\r\n','M. Bhubaneshwari Devi and N. Victoria Devi','15 BHUBNESHWARI.pdf','',1,'A study was conducted in the Laboratory of Entomology, D.M. College of Science, Imphal during May to June, 2014 at 28.7 ± 2.0°C and 75.2 ± 3.0 % relative humidity to study the biology and morphometry of Callosobruchus analis. The life cycle consisted of egg, four larval instars (L1, L2, L3 and L4), pupa and adult. The eggs hatched in 8-9 days. The larval duration varied from 18-22 days. The morphometric measurements revealed that the average length and breadth of egg were 0.68 ± 0.04 mm and 0.33 ± 0.02 mm respectively. The mean length and breadth of L1, L2, L3 and L4 were 0.51 ± 0.02 mm, 1.62 ± 0.04 mm, 2.75 ± 0.06 mm, 3.49 ± 0.06 mm and 0.33 ± 0.02 mm, 0.30 ± 0.02 mm, 0.84 ± 0.02 mm, 1.63 ± 0.04 mm respectively. The average length of male pupa and female pupa were 3.34 ± 0.04, 3.74 ± 0.03 mm and breadth were 1.56 ± 0.05 mm, 2.13 ± 0.02 mm respectively. The average length and breadth of male and female adult were 3.25 ± 0.23 mm, 3.60 ± 0.08 mm and 2.16 ± 0.05 mm, 2.02 ± 0.04 mm respectively. The life cycle took 53-62 days for completion.','Biology, instar, relative humidity, morphometric measurement, Callosobruchus analis, gram.','A study was conducted in the Laboratory of Entomology, D.M. College of Science, Imphal during May to June, 2014 at 28.7 ± 2.0°C and 75.2 ± 3.0 % relative humidity to study the biology and morphometry of Callosobruchus analis. The life cycle consisted of egg, four larval instars (L1, L2, L3 and L4), pupa and adult. The eggs hatched in 8-9 days. The larval duration varied from 18-22 days. The morphometric measurements revealed that the average length and breadth of egg were 0.68 ± 0.04 mm and 0.33 ± 0.02 mm respectively. The mean length and breadth of L1, L2, L3 and L4 were 0.51 ± 0.02 mm, 1.62 ± 0.04 mm, 2.75 ± 0.06 mm, 3.49 ± 0.06 mm and 0.33 ± 0.02 mm, 0.30 ± 0.02 mm, 0.84 ± 0.02 mm, 1.63 ± 0.04 mm respectively. The average length of male pupa and female pupa were 3.34 ± 0.04, 3.74 ± 0.03 mm and breadth were 1.56 ± 0.05 mm, 2.13 ± 0.02 mm respectively. The average length and breadth of male and female adult were 3.25 ± 0.23 mm, 3.60 ± 0.08 mm and 2.16 ± 0.05 mm, 2.02 ± 0.04 mm respectively. The life cycle took 53-62 days for completion.','The cow pea weevil Callosobruchus analis (F.) (Coleoptera: Bruchidae) is considered as a pest of economic importance for stored-leguminous grain (Southgate 1979, Rehaman 1989, Khandwe et. al, 1997 and Shafique and Ahamad, 2002). This pest has been observed infesting seeds of 15 genera, including peanut, chickpea, bean, pea, cowpea and soyabean (Waterworth, 1986). Among different legume seeds, the gram is most preferred host for oviposition and development of the bruchid Callosobruchus under common storage conditions (Sharmila and Roy, 1994). It has been reported that seed quality of chick pea during storage is significantly affected in the damaged seed (Charjan and Tarar, 1994). The pest attacked nearly matured and dried pods during storage. It is a holometabolic insect with the egg and adult stage found on the grain and the larval and pupal stages living inside the grain. The larvae bore into the pulse grains and eat up the endosperms which become unsuitable for human consumption with reduced viability for replanting or for the production of sprouts. It was used as a model organism in many biological laboratories due to its quick generation time and ease of maintenance. Such type of work has not been studied adequately in Manipur and review in this context was also very limited. So, the present study was carried out on gram under laboratory conditions to reveal its biology by morphometric measurement of egg, larva, pupa and adult for finding out the suitable control measures.\r\n\r\nMATERIAL AND METHODS\r\nTest insects and maintenance: A study on the morphological measurement of C. analis was conducted in the Laboratory of Entomology, D.M. College of Science, Imphal during the period of May to June, 2014 at 28.7 ± 2.0°C and 75.2 ± 3.0 % relative humidity.\r\nC. analis was collected from grocery shop of Tamenglong district. The culture was maintained on gram with 12% moisture content kept in plastic jar of 3 kg capacity. The equal sex ratio of 1-2 day old adults was released into a petridish of 9 cm size for egg laying. The bruchid beetle, C. analis was cultured on gram in petridish. The freshly emerged adults were allowed to lay eggs on gram for 24 hours. A pill cutter was used to make an initial cut adjacent to the bean and pin was used as leverage at the areas where the eggs were laid. A scalpel was also used for the initial incision creating a two sided cross section into the bean. The dissected portion was then examined to find the larvae. Remaining grain was deposited for observing the developmental stages of the beetle. Then the grain was bound by cello tape as the earlier one for observing the next stages of development. The observation was made in 3 days interval to confirm the stage of development. The observations on development, temperature and relative humidity were recorded every day and carefully observed for the size of egg, larva, pupa and adult. For the measurement of length and breadth of the different stages, a digital calliper was used. \r\n \r\n Devi and Devi 87\r\n \r\nThe experiment was conducted using standard mean deviation with five replications. The data was analysed statistically.\r\nRESULTS AND DISCUSSION\r\nBiology of C. analis\r\nThe details of the developing stages are presented in Table 1. The different stages of C. analis from egg to adult are shown in Plate I. From the laboratory data, the life cycle of C. analis was studied.\r\nEgg: The egg was small, glued on the grain singly but many eggs could be seen on a single grain. The eggs when freshly laid, were translucent smooth and shining, which later became yellowish white and very prominent against the contrasting background of the grain surface. The duration of egg ranged from 8-9 days. It was measured 0.68 ± 0.04 mm in length and 0.33 ± 0.02 mm in breadth. The average minimum, maximum temperature and humidity was 18.14°C, 27.14°C and 79.5% respectively. \r\nFirst instar larva: Upon hatching, they bite through the base of the eggs and bored into the seeds. The first instar larva was formed within the eggs prior to penetrating the seed coat with a convenient visual marker signalling that embryonic development was nearly completed. After the formation of the pigmented larval head capsule they borrowed from the egg through the seed coat and entered into the bean endosperm.\r\nThe remaining egg shell became opaque white or mottled as it was filled with frass from the larva. The larva was curve, white, and had a small head. The larval period ranged from 10-11 days. The length of larva measured with an average of 0.51 ± 0.02 mm and the breadth measured with a mean of 0.30 ± 0.02 mm respectively. The average minimum, maximum temperature and humidity was 17.4°C, 34.4°C and 66.4% respectively.\r\nSecond instar larva: The 2nd instar larva burrowed and fed on the bean endosperm. The larval duration ranged from 5-6 days. The length of 2nd instar larva was measured with an average 1.62 ± 0.04 mm and the breadth measured with an average 0.84 ± 0.02 mm respectively. The average minimum, maximum temperature and humidity were 21.3°C, 31.5°C and 69% respectively.\r\nThird instar larva: The 3rd instar larva was most active and fed on the entire endosperm voraciously. The larval period ranged from 5-6 days. The length of the 3rd instar larva with an average of 2.75 ± 0.06 mm and the breadth with an average mean of 1.63 ± 0.04 mm respectively. The average minimum, maximum temperature and humidity were 21.3°C, 31°C and 76.3% respectively\r\nFourth instar larva: The larva was creamy white, oval, flabby body and somewhat C-shaped with a small head. The 4th instar larvae were similar to 3rd instar but differed in size and shape. In this instar the larva seemed to become larger and fed on the entire endosperm voraciously. It burrowed into a position just underneath the seed coat prior to pupation. The duration of the larva ranged from 4-5 days. The body length of the 4th instar larva measured with an average mean 3.49 ± 0.06 mm and the breadth measured with an average of 1.95 ± 0.06 mm respectively. The average minimum, maximum temperature and humidity was 22°C, 27.2°C and 86.6% respectively.\r\nPre pupa: At first day pre pupa was translucent white in colour. The duration of the pre pupal period ranged from 1-2 days. The body length and breadth of pre pupa male measured with an average mean 3.08 ± 0.04 mm and 0.86 ± 0.2 mm respectively. The body length and breadth of pre pupa female measured with an average mean 3.14 ± 0.04 mm and 0.91 ± 0.2 mm respectively. The male body was slightly smaller than female. \r\nPost Pupa: At second stage of pupa eyes, antennae, proboscis and legs developed freely and at 3rd stage eyes, mouth part, forewing and hind wing with cuticular hair developed. At 4th day almost all the parts developed but intersegmental region of the abdomen remained colourless and forewing was light brown in colour. The male and female post pupal period ranged from 4-5 days and 3-4 days respectively. The length of male post pupa was 3.34 ± 0.04 mm and breadth was 1.56 ± 0.05 mm. The length and breadth of female post pupa was 3.74 ± 0.03 mm and 2.13 ± 0.02 mm respectively. The average minimum, maximum temperature and humidity was 22.5°C, 31°C and 77.5% respectively. \r\nAdult: The adult emerged by chewing and removing a circular piece of the seed coat to form a round hole. Adults were oval in shape, chocolate or reddish brown in colour with long and erected antennae. Both male and female more or less similar; lateral black spots on elytra surrounded by white setae and had dark stripes on each side of female dorsal abdomen. The adult male and female period ranged from 9-12 day and 10-14 days respectively. The length of male moth measured with an average 3.25 ± 0.23 mm and breadth was 2.16 ± 0.05 mm whereas the length and breadth of female moth measured with an average 3.60 ± 0.08 mm and 2.02 ± 0.04 mm respectively. The average minimum, maximum temperature and humidity was 22.7°C, 30.2°C and 74.7% respectively. The results of the study show that the developmental period of the egg to adult was 53-62 days. It took two months to complete its life cycle, which could take longer under unfavourable conditions depending on the food supply, temperature and humidity. But Ranga Rao and Shanower (1999) reported that one generation was completed in 4-5 weeks. This beetle could breed throughout the year.\r\n','M. Bhubaneshwari Devi and N. Victoria Devi (2014). Life Cycle and Morphometric Measurement of Callosobruchus analis on Gram .Biological Forum – An International Journal 6(2): 86-89.\r\n'),(4551,'120','Effect of Tea Bushes on Soil Physics in the Forest areas Turned in low land Siahkal Forests','Jamshid Najafi and Vahid Hemmati','17 VAHID HEMMATI.pdf','',1,'Conversion of forest land to other land uses is one of the most important human interference in natural ecosystems, which is effective on ecosystem processes, particularly soil. In order to study the effect of the tea bushes on soil physics in forest areas turned in low land Siahkal Forests, Series 3 Toshi in the Siahkal forests area in Gilan. Soil sampling is done by using systematic sampling method, and the depth of 0 to 30 cm. In total, 40 soil samples (20 samples for each region), to measure parameters of the soil were sampled and were transported to the laboratory. After normalization of the data, by using the Kolmogorov-Smirnov test, using the software SPSS 18, to study and compare data related to the parameters studied of soil in two areas of degraded forest and tea garden, Non-paired t-test was used. The results showed that, in both two areas of degraded forest and tea garden, soil type was clay loam, and the percentage of clay and sand in the forest is more than tea gardens and the percentage of silt in the forest is less than tea gardens. Apparent specific weight of soil in forest areas is more than tea garden areas and, conversely, the average actual specific weight, porosity in the tea gardens is more than the forest area, which represents an increase in soil quality due to conversion of forest land to the tea garden in the forest areas destroyed in downstream areas of forests in this region.','land use change, forest, tea, soil, Low land Siahkal forests','The results of this study showed that land use change had no significant effect on the soil texture of this region. Soil texture in both forests and tea gardens was clay loam. Given that conditions and environmental factors were the same in both cases, the presence of such texture in these areas is a sign of high productivity (Elias Azar, 2005).However, in some places, with increasing slope, soil texture changed from clay loam to clay, but much of this change was not significant. This is due to the presence of lower organic material under the effect of washing in the classes with upper slope in comparison with the classes with lower slope in the areas studied (Lee, 2001).The average Apparent specific weight of soil in the forest 1.43 and 1.29 for tea gardens, the actual average density of soil in forest 2.13 and2.43 for tea gardens, and the average the percentage of porosity of the soil in the forest 33.56 and 46.55 for tea gardens was obtained. The results of the data analysis of apparent and actual specific weight of soil and the percentage of soil porosity between forest and tea garden areas studied showed a significant difference at 99% confidence level. High Apparent bulk density in forest than in tea garden areas and, conversely, low actual density and porosity in forest soils than tea garden areas show more soil compaction in the forest areas in comparison with the tea gardens. This may be because, according to the forest area studied in this research is one of the forests destroyed by rural people with species of hazel, hornbeam and Diospyros lotus, and it is located on a rural road with beautiful natural landscapes, and on weekends it is visited by many tourists. These factors cause soil compaction and erosion in the forest more than the tea garden areas and the porosity and influence of water has decreased, and in some cases, it causes sewage, which in turn leads to erosion (Azmoodeh and Soleymani, 2010. Boix-Fayos et al, 2001).Meanwhile that the tea garden areas in these areas was surrounded, and with evergreen and annual autumn of their leaves, while providing needed nitrogen for soil fertility, it has caused more water permeability than the forest areas, while reducing apparent bulk density, soil porosity is increased (Elias Azar, 2005).This issue doubles the importance of the existence of the tea gardens in the forest areas destroyed to conserve soil and water and maintain soil fertility.','Soil quality is considered as one of the most important factors considered in the evaluation of soil management and biological realm sustainability. Soil properties have been heavily influenced by soil management systems and land use. Land use change on ecosystem processes, especially carbon and nitrogen mineralization rate, is effective. Effect of different land uses, with the addition of their litters on the soil surface, in natural forests and tea gardens can be positive or negative impact on the physical, chemical and biological properties of the soil. Changes in land use and agricultural practices in the virgin lands lead to the reduction of entry of the crop residues to the soil. Decrease in carbon stocks in soil leads to a decrease in microbial biomass and activity of micro-organisms in soil. This important part of soil plays an important role in organic matter decomposition and return of necessary nutrients. Land use change from forest to agriculture, especially in steep terrain and erodible lands, is a major problem, which with direct impact on soil quality parameters in addition to the damage and loss of potential of the soil, damage through increasing soil Erodibility (Marinari et al., 2006).Soils of forest lands, due to high organic matter, and suitable buildings, have always been considered, but changes in management and their use and tillage practices, mainly huge impact on the amount of organic matter and other physical and chemical properties of the soil (Li et al., 2007. Yimer et al, 2007). Therefore, land use change from forest to agriculture reduces soil organic matter and In contrast to that the conversion of agricultural lands to natural vegetation can lead to increase of soil organic matter (Dawson, Smith, 2007. Stoate et al., 2001). The results of forest land use changes on some soil physical and chemical properties in part of Berenjestanak watershed in three users of the forest, dry land farming (wheat) and garden indicated that the amount of organic matter in the agricultural lands and garden, respectively, 44.24 and 45.45 percent in layer 0-10 cm, 42.69 and 43% in the layer 10-20 cm was lower than forested land. The maximum total nitrogen in the layer 0-10 cm in the forest land equal to 30 percent, its lowest in the layer 10-20 cm in the garden lands was observed equal to 0.19 percent (Soleymani and Azmoodeh, 2010). Given the importance of land use changes on soil properties, this study examines the impact of conversion of forest land to the tea gardens in Series 2 Gamble in the Gilan province.\r\nMATERIALS AND METHODS\r\nSeries 3Toshiwith area of 2028 hectares is of the forests of south-eastern province of Gilan and a part of jurisdiction of the Department of Natural Resources of Siahkal. It is located on between Longitude 490 46\' 015\'\' and latitude 00 3\' 37\'\'. The minimum and maximum its height from sea level is equal to 100 to 100 m, and its general direction is north. The average annual rainfall is 1264.5 mm and the mean annual temperature is 16 °C (Untitled, 2007).\r\nThe systematic random sampling method from the soil of two regions was used. Thus, after design of a grid 50 × 50 mm, 30 points for each region were selected, after a survey of the fields studied, sampling was done from 20 points in each region of 0 to 30 cm depth. The samples of soil (40 samples) were extracted transported to the laboratory, and organic carbon by using block-Vakly method, soil nitrogen by using Kjeldahl method and phosphorus of the soil by using flame photometry method were extracted (Zarin Kafsh 2001, Salardini 2005). Analysis and comparison of mean data, using the software SPSS 18 and unpaired t-test was performed, and graphs were plotted in Excel software.\r\nRESULTS\r\n1. Soil Texture: The results of soil samples to determine soil texture in the areas of forests and tea gardens, showed that, in both areas, soil was sandy loam, and between the areas studied, no significant differences in terms of the soil type was observed (Fig. 2) (Sig = 0/09).\r\n2. Bulk density of soil: The results of the disintegration of variance and comparison of mean data by using non-paired t-test showed that the Apparent specific weight of soil in tea gardens has a significant difference in the 99% confidence level with forest areas (Sig = 0/000) (Fig. 3).\r\n. Actual specific weight of soil: The results of the disintegration of variance and comparison of mean data by using non-paired t-test showed that the actual specific weight of soil in tea gardens has a significant difference in the 99% confidence level with forest areas(Fig. 4)(Sig = 0/000).\r\n4. Soil porosity: The results of the disintegration of variance and comparison of mean data by using non-paired t-test showed that the Percentage of Soil porosity in tea gardens has a significant difference in the 99% confidence level with forest areas (Fig. 5) (Sig = 0/000). \r\n','Jamshid Najafi and Vahid Hemmati (2014). Effect of Tea Bushes on Soil Physics in the Forest areas Turned in low land Siahkal Forests .Biological Forum – An International Journal 6(2): 94-97.'),(4552,'120','Bioclimatic Niche Model to predict Afghan Pika (Ochotona rufescens) distribution range in Iran','S. Khaki Sahneha, Z. Nourib, A. Alizadeh Shabanic , M. Ahmadid and M. Dehdar Dargahie','18 NOURI @ HESHAMI.pdf','',1,'Effective management and protection of wild life population depends to a large part on our ability to understand and predict species habitat and its relevant evolutions. Therefore, various methods of habitat modelling which have been increasingly used in wild life management since 1970 are able to provide useful information on the relationship between species and species habitat. We used a novel method known as maximum entropy distribution modelling or Maxent for predicting potential suitable habitat for Afghan Pika (Ochotona rufescens) in Iran Using climatic parameters in fact we predicted the area in which the climate is suitable for pika to succeed, the results of the present study indicated that some of the most important climatic factors in habitat suitability and limiting the distribution of Pikas include annual mean temperature (54.8%), temperature annual range (31.5%), Precipitation of Coldest Quarter (4.8%). In addition, the performance of the model by the area under receiver-operating characteristic curve (AUC), showed that the modelling approach used in this study is in excellent yield (average AUC = 0.846; SD = 0.103). Therefore, using Maxent method and presence dataset, it is possible to model the geographical location of species. The obtained suitability map significantly explains the dispersal of Pika in Iran and has a good consistency with other studies done. The method presented in this method is effectively able to predict suitable habitats of many species of wild life, especially the species subject to extinction by a limited number of sampling points. ','Afghan Pika (Ochotona rufescens), Bioclimatic niche, Habitat modelling, Maxent, climatic perspective, Iran','Effective management and protection of wild life population depends to a large part on our ability to understand and predict species habitat and its relevant evolutions. Therefore, various methods of habitat modelling which have been increasingly used in wild life management since 1970 are able to provide useful information on the relationship between species and species habitat. We used a novel method known as maximum entropy distribution modelling or Maxent for predicting potential suitable habitat for Afghan Pika (Ochotona rufescens) in Iran Using climatic parameters in fact we predicted the area in which the climate is suitable for pika to succeed, the results of the present study indicated that some of the most important climatic factors in habitat suitability and limiting the distribution of Pikas include annual mean temperature (54.8%), temperature annual range (31.5%), Precipitation of Coldest Quarter (4.8%). In addition, the performance of the model by the area under receiver-operating characteristic curve (AUC), showed that the modelling approach used in this study is in excellent yield (average AUC = 0.846; SD = 0.103). Therefore, using Maxent method and presence dataset, it is possible to model the geographical location of species. The obtained suitability map significantly explains the dispersal of Pika in Iran and has a good consistency with other studies done. The method presented in this method is effectively able to predict suitable habitats of many species of wild life, especially the species subject to extinction by a limited number of sampling points. ','Nowadays, the protection of the heritage of future generations is not possible without observing scientific principles and without careful management plans. The critical factor in protecting, identifying and acquiring valid knowledge, especially about the habitat requirements of species is importance that human attaches to a species. Many of the problems and bottlenecks of wildlife conservation root from lack of understanding of wildlife requirements, including the habitat requirements. Understanding distribution and ecological needs of habitats is essential to achieve species conservation. In fact, to determine the nature of distribution and determinants of species dispersion is the working foundation of an ecologist (Elith and Leathwick, 2009; Guisan and Thuiller, 2005). Probability distribution models can create a vision indicating the impact of different factors on the occurrence and continuation of species with time (Guisan and Zimmermann, 2000, Araujo and Williams, 2000). Nowadays, species distribution modelling is extensively used as a tool in the area of ecology and various environmental programs (Bunnell and Johnson 1974, MacArthur and Wang. 1974). These models show the relationship between species and the surrounding environment in the study area. In this regard, climatic models have a high status, and, in fact, understanding the impact of climate change on wildlife populations is highly important for the environmental experts and natural resource managers (Root and Schneider, 2006). Climatic changes can change existing resources and suitable habitats for animal species, which in turn it can significantly influence the survival percent of wild life (Hughes, 2000; Schwartz et al., 2006). There are a myriad of methods for modelling and prediction of favorable species habitats (Gray, 1842, Guisan and Thuiller, 2005, Wei-Dong and Smith, 2005). In this study, we use the maximum entropy method Maxent to model Pika\'s favorable habitat in Iran by using climate parameters.\r\nPika is a species of Lagomorph family and is physically highly similar to big mouse, except that the tail of Pika is so small and is almost removed, Pika\'s ears are highly round and small, legs are not so high unlike rabbits and are somehow similar to arms, and their palms is covered with dense furs, its color is variable and akin to environment, and it converts from mixed gray and dark into bright red (Ziaei, 2008). Evidence suggests that contemporary Pikas within the family Ochotonidae originated in Asia in the early Oligocene and diversified into many different genera by the Miocene. At that time, Pikas were found throughout North America, Asia, and Africa (Grzimek 2004). Current distribution of Pika includes northern Holartic which covers North America, Europe and Asia (Elith et al., 2006); only one species of the family of Pikas entitled Afghan Pika or O. rufescens (Ochotona rufescens) have been reported by Gray in 1842 in the Middle East. Distribution of this species could be seen in mountainous regions including Afghanistan, Armenia, south west Turkey and Iran (Smith et al., 1990; Hoffman et al., 2005). Pika is one of most important member of their native ecosystem and play significant roles in the dispersal of vegetation species by collecting and feeding from various plant species (Nowak, 1999) and because of limited mobility caused by climatic changes, Pikas may become subject to extinction. Pikas are very sensitive to the ambience and they physiologically are not able to survive in a thermal degree higher than one threshold (Smith and Weston, 1990; Verts and Carraway, 1998). Due to such sensitivity to high temperature and habitat conditions (Mc Arthur, 1974, Smith and Wang, 1974), Pika can be regarded as a superior indicator for climatic changes (Beever et al., 2003; Smith et al., 2004). Therefore, environmental managers and protection groups must be equipped with innovative technology and research in order to protect Pikas with limited mobility against climatic crises in the contemporary world. One of such research requirements is to identify the climatic condition of species current habitats, sensitivities and climatic limitations in order to predict and study future variations. One of the most appropriate tools to achieve such objectives is to model habitats and, in the present study, to model species climatic niche.\r\n In Iran, so far, Maxent metod has been applied to model distribution and dispersal of Asian Zebra Doneky in Touran Reservation Biosphere (Madani, 2008), to examine the factors influencing on the distribution and abundance of buck in Hirkani Khiroud Forests (Ibrahimi, 2011), and also to model wolf\'s attacks on man and livestock in Hamadan Province (Behdarvand, 2011). Although many studies have been done on ecology and habitat of different species of Pika in the world, there exist limited research on Afghan Pika in Iran; one example is a MA thesis entitled “a study of \r\nintra-species variations of Pika population” by Mansour Ali Abadian in 1992. In addition, Cermak et al., (2006) in a study entitled “notes on Pika family in the Middle East”, specified some distribution points of Afghan Pika in Iran. Also, using Binary Logistic Regression Methods, HEP and Ecological Niche Factor Analysis (ENFA), Khaki et al., evaluated the habitats of Afghan Pika in the Lashkar Protected Area (Khaki Sahneh et al., 2011, Nouri, 2010). However, so far, no study has been conducted on Pika habitat using Maxent method. \r\nTherefore, the present study mainly aims to model Afghan Pika habitats using the factor of climate in order to model Afghan Pika climatic niche in Iran. This study can pave the way for future studies on climatic variations on the distribution of this species. Therefore, while introducing such habitat modelling method, the present study attempts to achieve two main objectives including 1) the achievement of the suitability map of Pika bioclimatic niche, and 2) identification of the most important climate parameters relevant to the presence of this species and its climatic limitations in the study area. \r\nWe used species occurrence records, GIS geographical information system, climate parameters, and the maximum entropy distribution modelling approach (Phillips et al., 2006) to predict potential the area in which the climate is suitable for O. rufescens to succeed.\r\nMATERIAL AND METHODS\r\nA. Species distribution data\r\nIn the present study which was done from 2011 to 2012, considering studies on Pika natural history and the studies already conducted on its distribution in the Middle East and Iran, the distribution points of Afghan Pika in Iran were examined (Blanford, 1876; Murray, 1884; Misonne, 1956; Taghizadeh, 1964; Lay, 1967; Obuch & Kristín, 2004; Cermak et al., 2006), and evidence and reports approved by practitioners and scholars (environment specialists and experts, biologist, taxidermists, nature photographers, environment protectors and experiences hunters) were collected. Finally, 50 points of the presence of Pika in Iran were recorded.\r\nB. Environmental data\r\nConsidering the sensitivity of the stations to climatic factors which introduces this species as an excellent indicator for climatic variations (Beever et al., 2003; Smith et al., 2004), some studies have been done on other species of Pika which have the same habitat as Afghan Pika (Smith, 1974; Verts and Carraway 1998, Smith and Weston 1990; Bruggeman 2010). In addition, some other habitat modelling studies have been done by using Maxent method (Kumar et al., 2006; Guisan et al., 2007a-b).\r\nWe used as environmental predictors the climatic data provided by WorldClim (Hijmans et al., 2005). Nineteen bioclimatic variables (Nix, 1986), biologically more meaningful to define eco-physiological tolerances of a species (Graham and Hijmans 2006; Murienne et \r\nal., 2009), were obtained from WorldClim dataset (Hijmans et al., 2005, http://www.worldclim.org/bioclim.htm. This climate parameters were 1 km spatial resolution (Table 1).\r\n \r\n\r\nC. Modelling Procedure\r\nWe used the freely available Maxent software, version3.1 (http://www.cs.princeton.edu/~schapire/maxent/), which generates an estimate of probability of presence of the species that varies from 0 to 1, where 0 being the lowest and 1 the highest probability. \r\nWhile working with Maxent software, user is faced by a number of inputs, outputs and parameters. The inputs are the same information relevant to the presence of species and environmental layers. Environmental layers format (habitat parameters) is ASC. In the present study, to prepare data layers to enter software Maxent, Arc GIS 9.3, Conversation Tools were used and the presence points of the species include 50 points in the separate Excel file with CSV format were prepared. In addition, to examine the correlation between the variables, Multivariant tape wire in Spatial Analysis Tools, software Arc GIS 9.3 was used. After performing correlation analysis, out of the variables with a correlation higher than 0.8, one was selected. 50 occurrence records and 7 climate parameters were used in Maxent to model potential habitat distribution for O. rufescens.\r\nD. Modelling with maximum entropy method\r\nMaxent is one of the most common algorithms in machine learning. The principle of Maxent is related to the maximum entropy or prximity to reality. \r\nShannon in 1984 described entropy as a criterion out of the options involved in the occurrence of an event. The application of maximum entropy rule for species distribution is supported by thermodynamic law of ecological processes. According to the second thermodynamic rule, in the close systems, the process goes along the maximum entropy. Therefore, in the absence of the impact of other confining factors compared to the limitations imposed on the model, species geographical distribution tends to the maximum entropy. Maxent Modelling program was scripted by Philips et al., (2006). Maxent is regarded as one presence method for species distribution modelling. The model is obtained as a species by a number of environmental layers along with some points relevant to the presence of species, and the suitability of each cell in habitat is explained as a function of environmental variables. The high value of each cell indicates that the cell has a good condition for that species. The calculated model expresses the possibility of population distribution within all cells. The selected distribution is the part which is closer to reality (maximum entropy) and it must have the same condition for each variable. \r\n Based on the study by Ausin, the statistical modelling of species distribution is composed of three parts: 1) ecological model regarding the used ecological theory 2) the data model regarding data collection 3) the statistical model regarding statistical theory. \r\nMaxent is a statistical model and to obtain the species distribution, a relation must be established between this model and two other components of modelling (data model and ecological model). The important step to formulate the ecological model of Maxent method is to use a set of appropriate characteristics which are regarded as environmental factors limiting species geographical distribution. The environmental layers are applied to produce characteristics which limit the possibility of species distribution. In the model Maxent, using the points of the presence of species (x1 to xm) and limited geographical space X (a set of the pixel of the relevant area) the possibility of unknown distribution is calculated. The entropy is defined as follows: H(π ̂ )=-∑_xϵX▒〖π ̂(X)ln〗 π ̂(x)\r\nln: natural logarithm \r\nX: the set of the area pixels\r\nx: the points of the presence of the species \r\nIt is worth mentioning that Maxent is the most capable modelling method in producing useful results with sample sizes of less occurrences (Hernandez et al., 2006; Pearson et al., 2007).\r\n Considering that the number of the presence points of Pikas in the study is 50, to make better use of the small sample size of Pika present in Iran, we used the cross-validation method in Maxent (Behdarvand et al., 2014). Instead of extracting a training-test dataset from the data, all of the pika locations were used to build Maxent model. Pika location were randomly split into 10 folds containing equal number of occurrences, and training models were created by eliminating each fold in turn. The removed fold was then used for testing the model derived from the remaining training folds. We used the area under receiver-operating characteristic curve (AUC), calculated for test folds, to evaluate models derived from training folds.\r\nRESULTS \r\nThere are various files in Maxent outlet. The Plots folder contains all the pictures of graphs, maps, and charts that Maxent creates from the run. Ochotona rufescens.asc incudes a prediction map by asc format which could be converted into raster file and then classified, and Ochotona rufescens.png which is regarded as the image of distribution prediction. \r\nThe prediction map designed by Maxent is a continuous possibility map which it was categorized into 5 classes in Arc GIS environment, and we assume that at the classes with higher ranks, the possibility of the presence of Pikas is higher. The prediction map shows that the highest habitat suitability exists in north-eastern Iran, and this location takes privilege of the maximum points relevant to the presence of Pikas.\r\nA. Analysis of variable contributions\r\nIn this part you will see a table that shows the Analysis of variable contributions (Table 2). This table shows the climatic variables used in the model and their percent predictive contribution of each variable. The higher the contribution, the more impact that particular variable has on predicting the occurrence of that species (Phillips et al., 2006). In this study Annual Mean Temperature (. bio_1) had the highest predictive contribution of 54.8% (Table 2).\r\nB. Graph of the Jackknife of Regularized Training Gain \r\nThe Jackknifing shows the training gain of each variable if the model was run in isolation, and compares it to the training gain with all the variables. This is useful to identify which variables contribute the most individually (Phillips et al., 2006). In the jackknife procedure, we calculated the loss in regularized training gain of models when each variable was sequentially omitted. We also estimated obtained gain for each variable when used alone in the model. Subsequently, by considering the regularized training gains, the most important variables were determined.\r\nThe Maxent model\'s internal jackknife test of variable importance and Analysis of variable contributions showed that \'Annual Mean Temperature (Bio1, degree C)\', Precipitation of Coldest Quarter (Bio19, degree C)\'and Mean Diurnal Range (Mean of monthly (max temp - min temp)) (Bio7, degree C) were the three most important predictors of O. rufescens distribution (Fig. 2, Table 2).\r\nC. Response curves\r\nThese curves show how each environmental variable affects the Maxent prediction. The curves show how the logistic prediction changes as each environmental variable is varied, keeping all other environmental variables at their average sample value (Phillips et al., 2006).\r\nResults derived from curves showed that the probability of the presence of O. rufescens decrease with the increase in Annual Mean Temperature; but with increase in Precipitation of Coldest Quarter, Precipitation of Seasonality, Precipitation of Driest Month, Temperature Annual Range, Mean Diurnal Range, it somehow increases.\r\nD. Area under (ROC) Curve\r\nThis is a graph of the area under the Receiver Operating Characteristic (ROC) Curve or AUC. The AUC values allow you to easily compare performance of one model with another, and are useful in evaluating multiple Maxent models. \r\nAn AUC value of 0.5 indicates that the performance of the model is no better than random, while values closer to 1.0 indicate better model performance (Phillips et al., 2006). The average test AUC for the replicate runs is 0.846, and the standard deviation is 0.103. \r\nDISCUSSION\r\nAs climate can directly influence plant populations, increased temperature in the current age can change the distribution of plant species toward higher geographical latitudes, and in turn, this can lead to the mobilization and emigration of animal species, especially herbivorous mammals to supply their required food (Root et al., 2003). Notably, the population of the species with limited mobility and habitat range becomes limited to a special location due to the presence of geographical and physical hurdles; also it can hinder any genetic exchange with other populations and so they become more exposed to extinction risks (Parmesan, 2006). Pikas as small mammals are more susceptible to extinction due to their limited mobility potential caused by climatic variations. In fact, the results of different studies indicate that the climate is the most significant factor in shrinking the distribution rate of Pikas throughout the world. Therefore, using Maxent modelling method, the present study mainly aims to determine the optimal bioclimatic niche for Pikas in Iran and also to specify the climatic limitations of this species. Notably, the obtained suitability map in the present study was in a good from consistency with the distribution of Pika in Iran reported in other studies, which this shows the significance of climatic parameters on Pika distribution. \r\nThe model obtained from Maxent successfully shows the climatic characteristics of Pika environment and climatic factors limiting the species distribution. There is a direct relationship between some climatic factors and the presence of the species. The model results underline the significance of temperature and precipitation on distribution and selection of Pika habitat. In fact, considering the results from the present study, it could be said that the most significant climatic factor influencing the distribution or paucity of Pikas is annual mean temperature, which by an increase in this parameter, habitat suitability will be reduced (Fig. 2, Table 2). \r\nSmith (1974) believes that when Pikas get exposed to the temperature over 77°F (25°C) for a couple of hours, they experience a severe stress due to their fur and it is even possible to die. Also, the studies done on American Pika shows that increased temperature has reduced the agility, increased the sensitivity and decreased the reproduction rate of this species (Beever et al., 2003; MacDonald and Brown, 1992). These results are in a good consistency with the results from the present study, and the model obtained from the present study underlines the significant impact of temperature (Fig. 2, Table 2). \r\nMacArthur and Wang (1974) argued that in temperature range of 37 to 81°F, there is a negative correlation between the time that Pikas spend outdoor and temperature degree. The response curve resulted from the current study indicate that by an increase in Mean Diurnal Range and Temperature Annual Range, habitat suitability first increases and then reduces. \r\nBoth very elevated and very low temperatures can influence reproduction rate of Pika. This is because this species reproduces mostly in hot months of year (Smith et al., 1990; Nowak, 1999). Therefore, there is low possibility of the presence of Pika in the regions with very low diurnal temperature and hot days, and such places are not a good habitat for the species. \r\nRecent studies indicate that climatic change can significantly influence the population of Pikas in the world (Wei-Dong and Smith, 2005; Beever et al. 2003). Increase in temperature influences Pikas\' different living aspects such as the abundance or paucity of vegetation, change in the time of forage collection and change of behavior due to Pika\'s body varying thermal regulation.\r\nAs Pikas do not experience winter sleeps, they must store their required food for winter. So they spend a lot of time in summer and autumn to collect plants. The main challenge faced by Pikas for collecting plants in these seasons is high temperature. Therefore, by an increase in temperature annual range, mean diurnal range (mean of monthly (max temp-min temp)), the behavior of plant collection is influenced. During summer, Pikas have two feeding states; one is direct feeding from fresh plants (Dearing, 1996). The second state of feeding is related to plants collection for the use in winter. By an increase in plants age, their biomass will be increased, and they produce secondary intoxicating compositions. However, these can preserve plant in winter and when plants are dried, they will be removed (Dearing 1996). So Pikas collect plants at the peak of their growth and biomass (Huntly, 1987). Increase in temperature and precipitation can positively influence the growth of plants and plants achieve their growth peak sooner, in turn, Pikas can sooner collect their required plants (Parmesan, 2006). Therefore, other roles of the factors influencing Pika habitat suitability include precipitation of coldest quarter, precipitation of seasonality and precipitation of driest month. It is expected that by an increase in precipitation rate, vegetation and food for Pika will be enhanced. However, excessive precipitation rate also makes plants achieve sooner their growth peak and so Pikas are not able to directly use it. \r\nThe results of the observation by Ricankova on Alpine Pika and the study results of Wei-Dong and Smith (2005) on Ili Pika indicate that precipitation rate can somehow influence Pika habitat suitability and higher than that rate can have a negative impact. Considering the current distribution points of Afghan Pika and obtained suitability map in Iran (Fig. 1), the lack of Afghan Pikas on the Caspian Sea, Persian Gulf and Gulf of Oman and the low suitability of these regions for Pikas can justify the results from Response Curves on Precipitation of Driest Month, Precipitation of Coldest Quarter, and Precipitation of Seasonality. \r\nIn fact, excessive precipitation can reduce the possibility of the presence of Pikas. It must be noted that it is possible that two parameters annual mean temperature and precipitation of coldest quarter in a macro-level and other parameters in regional level influence Pikas habitat suitability and this issue requires doing more research.\r\nOverall, it could be concluded that temperature play significant roles in the distribution of Pika, and this species is highly sensitive to climatic variations due to its limited mobility and unique habitats; as climatic variations, especially increase in temperature is a potential threat to Pikas, different studies recently have been done on the condition of Pikas as a species subject to extinction (Federal Register, 2009). In addition, a study of exposition of Afghan Pikas to varying temperatures as the only species of Pikas which are used as in laboratory (Smith et al., 1990) can be more significant. \r\nThe obtained suitability map (Fig. 1) is able to significantly justify the distribution of Afghan Pikas in Iran. \r\nBased on the recordings, the main distribution points of Afghan Pikas could be categorized into five areas including 1) Northeast and East Iran including Hezar Masjed Mountains and Kopet Dag and Binaloud 2) Southeastern Iran including Taftan and Deh Baraki Mountains in Kerman 3) central Iran including the central Alborz and Zagros mountain ranges and northern part of Kouhroud 4) the length of Alborz from south eastern Kerman to Iran and Turkey border located in Bastam in Western Azarbaijan, and 5) central and eastern part of Alborz (Fig. 1). In fact, the distribution of Afghan Pikas starts from Southeastern Iran from Taftan Mountain ranges in Sistan and Balouchestan and extends from the extreme point of Zagros Mountain ranges including Kerman and Bastam in the border of Iran and Turkey. \r\n Another part of the distribution of Afghan Pika which accounts for main population of Pika in Iran starts from Eastern Iran and Kopet Dag and Binaloud Mountains and extends along Alborz to Qazvin province. Considering the obtained suitability map, these regions have a high climatic suitability. \r\nAlong with the above explanations on the valid depiction of the Afghan Pika distribution in Iran by the model, this model has a higher accuracy as well, for example in some parts of Iran such as Semnan, Tandoureh in Khorasan and different parts of Southern Khorasan as the main habitats of Afghan Pikas(Fig. 1). \r\nConsidering the resultant climatic suitability map, the possibility of the presence of the species is higher than other assumptions and predictions, and such regions have a better suitability class (1-0.8). This indicates the higher accuracy of this model in determining the distribution of Afghan Pika based on the climate parameter in Iran. Given the model, it is possible to obtain the relative climatic suitability percent of each point for Afghan Pikas in Iran, and so to measure the intensity and weakness of other factors on the distribution of Pika. The model also shows that Pikas often live in Iran mountainous areas with cold and Semiarid weather and this confirms the results of Lay (1974). \r\n \r\n\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\n Sahneh, Nouri, Shabani, Ahmadi and Dargahi 107\r\n \r\nUsing this model as an appropriate living climate for Afghan Pika and considering its elevation displacements, it is possible to examine the role of climatic changes on the displacement and mobility of Pikas and to use it as an indicator for climatic conditions. The results from some studies indicate that due to climatic changes in some areas, Pikas have changed their elevation up to 190 m (Beever et al., in review). \r\nA review of different resources shows that Pikas basically live in elevated regions and are severely dependent upon low temperatures and are not physiologically able to reproduce under the other conditions (Smith and Weston, 1990; Verts and Carraway, 1998). In fact, the elevation plays a modifying role for climatic parameters of Pikas\' life. Species like Pikas with obligate temperature thresholds will shift their distribution either poleward or upward. On average, species have been predicted to respond to a 3o C increase in temperature by moving 250 km north or 500 meters upward in elevation (MacArthur 1972).\r\nConsidering the above, it is suggested that, in case of increase in temperature, the new habitat of Pika in Iran achieve a better and new modelling and suitability map, compared to the current suitability map obtained in the present study. This could be done for other species, especially the species subject to extinction risks.\r\nIt is noteworthy that Areas of a bioclimatic niche can be empty of the \r\nexpected species because:\r\n-It can\'t get there\r\n-The substrate is wrong\r\n-It can\'t compete with other species\r\nIn addition, as the obtained suitability map comrhensively covers a large part of Iran, it is possible that Iran Pikas have different species or sub-species with a different climatic niche, and the obtained model is an estimation and mean of this different climatic niches. Therefore, succeeding studies assume that Iran Pikas have two or more sub-species with a different climatic niche. \r\n','S. Khaki Sahneha, Z. Nourib, A. Alizadeh Shabanic , M. Ahmadid and M. Dehdar Dargahie (2014). Bioclimatic Niche Model to predict Afghan Pika (Ochotona rufescens) distribution range in Iran . Biological Forum – An International Journal 6(2): 98-109 .'),(4553,'120','Effect of Red Beet Juice (Beta vlgaris) on Pigmentation of Fillet and Growth Performance of Rainbow trout (Oncorhynchus mykiss)','Hamid Allaf Neverian*, Ehsan Asadi sharif* and Abolfazl Bayrami','19 ABOLFAZL.pdf','',1,'The limitation in the use of synthetic pigments in food industries and aquaculture due to the related health issues is one of the main reasons to substitute natural pigments as food additives. Hence, a study was conducted to evaluate the effect of red beet juice (Beta vulgaris L.) as a natural pigment additive on fillet pigmentation and growth performance of rainbow trout. Four practical diets containing 0 (control basal diet), 2, 4 and 6% red beet juice were formulated and fed to triplicate groups of fish. 480 rainbow trout (50 ± 4 g) were random distributed between 12 fiber glass tanks of 500 L capacity. During a 60 days, fishes received 4 and 6% red beet juice in diet, were affected by higher pigmentation compared to other treatments (P < 0.05). However, the rate of the growth of fish group fed with 6% red beet juice were negatively affected significantly. The results indicated that the inclusion of 2 and 4% red beet juice was more reliable for suitable coloration and growth in which 4% were found the most reliable amongst studied ratios.','Growth Performance, Pigmentation, Rainbow trout, Red beet juice (Beta vulgaris L.).','It was found that the most appropriate dose of red beet in the diet for best growth performances and better pigmentation of rainbow trout was 4%. Furthermore, this experiment is a base line research in using red beet for other organisms such as Lobster, shrimp, crab etc. in which their coloration are commercially important.','Most aquatic organisms in confined area have received less pigmentation due to limitation of natural pigment. Therefore, inclusion of pigmentation sources in their diet coloration is needed (Goldman and Navazio, 2003).\r\nFood scientists have mostly focused on the utilization of natural pigments such as read beet, Swiss chard and yellow beet in food industries (Strack et al., 2003). Amongst different species, red beet has less sugar and carbohydrate and also sources of vitamin B, C and act as antioxidant in comparison with sweat beet (Adams, et al, 1976). One of the most interesting characteristics of red beet is its pH stability that ranges at lower than 7 or neutral (Stintzing et al., 2002).\r\nOne of the key factors for market acceptability of rainbow trout is color appearance of fillet. Pigmentation can be produced from synthetic carotenoid sources (astaxanthin) that are commonly used for pigmentation of salmonids (Barboso, et al., 1999). There are different sources responsible for typical color of salmonid skin and fillet for example, synthetic astaxanthin, natural red pepper and marigold flower (Buyukcapar, 2005). But due to health concern about the use of synthetic pigments yet alternative natural sources like red beet must be studied. Red beet root is major commercially exploit betalain crop and it is approved by European UnionEl62 (Sinclair,1998).\r\nColor changes hue and their pattern for suitable adaptation of aquatic animals to their surrounding environments are crucial point, the changes subjected to variation of pigment quantity while a fast color change is related to hormone regulation (Boeuf and Le Bail 1999, Oshima 2001). There is lacuna of using red beet for pigmentation of fish. The present study was design to assess the relative pigmentation efficiency of red beet on rainbow trout and also its effect on growth performances.\r\nMATERIAL AND METHODS\r\nA. Fish maintenance\r\nRainbow trouts ware obtained from Dornab rainbow farming (Guilan, Iran) and brought to wet -laboratory of Faculty of Natural Resources (Guilanuniversity, Iran). Initially, all fishes were stocked in one -ton tank for 48 hr. without feeding. Prior to experiment, 480 young fishes with initial average weight of 50 ± 4g were randomly stock in 12, 500 L circular fiber glass tanks. Fishes were fed at satiation three times a day (8.00, 13.00 and 17.00). The tanks were supplied by constant water flow (ground water) and aeration. Water quality such as temperature, DO2, PH and ammonia were 17.2 ± 1. 8ºC, 8.9 ± 0.64 mg/l, 7.4 ± 0.14 and <0/01 mg/l which maintained through experiment.\r\n \r\n\r\nB. Diet design\r\nFood was supplied by Biomar (France). Initially, a total 500 g of red beetroots were washed, hand -peeled and cutted to small pieces. Pieces of red beet were cooked for juice extract, then the extracted juices were sprayed on practical basal diet in proper proportion.\r\nC. Chemical analysis\r\nChemical composition of red bead and practical diet are presented in Table 1.\r\nTheir composition were determined according to the procedure prescribed by A.o.A.C. (1995) at nutritional lab of faculty of natural resources .Dry matter was determined by drying sample to constant weigh at 105ºC in over dryer, Nitrogen was measured by the semi -kjeldahl method and crude protein value calculated from nitrogen (N) multiplied by Soxhlet method through ether extraction for 8 hrs and total ash content was determine by combustion at 550 °C at muffle furnace for 8 hrs.\r\nD. Color analysis\r\nAt end of trial, three fish from each tank (9 from each treatment) were randomly selected and anesthetized by ms222 (120 mg/ml) for xerography purpose. Analysis of digital pictures of fillet surface sample are possible by L*, a* and b* Hunter color parameters and color spectrum pattern (Hunt, R. w. cr, 1991). For better description, we used Adobe Photoshop with transformation in to color parameters base on the L*, a* and b* values (Quantities analysis). Each fish (samples) from treatment was photographed in 9 different fillet location (Picture). The value, represent by L*, ranged from pure black (0) to pure while (100), a* from red (indicates a+) to green (indicated a-) and b* indicated from yellow (b+) to blue (b-) for use measurement of light intensity (Cai, 2005).\r\nE. Growth performances\r\nFish in each tank were batch weight every week, and weight.\r\nFor the growth performances the following parameters were estimated:\r\n1. Weight gain (WG) = final weight (g) – initial weight (g) \r\n2. Food conversation ratio (FCR) = (dryfoodoffered (g))/(wet weight gain (g))\r\n3. Protein efficiency ratio (PER) = \r\n(weight gain (g))/(protein consumed (g))\r\n4. Survival rate = (final no.of fishes)/(initial no.of fishes )×100\r\nF. Statistical analysis\r\nRaw data were subjected to a One-way analysis of variance (ANOVA) to test for statistical difference between treatments Duncan multiple range test and critical ranges were used to test differences among the individual means. The differences were regarded as significant (P<0.05).\r\nRESULTS\r\nA. Effect of studied diets on growth performance\r\nThe effect of different red beet juice percentages in studied fish diets on growth performances were presented in Table 2. From the results, the highest weight gain protein efficiency ratio and survival with lower food conversion ratio were obtained using 4% red beet in diet (p< 0.05). However, further increase in red beet to 6% level, decreased the performances significantly compared to other treatments.\r\nDifferent letters in the same column are significantly different (p<0.05) mean ± SEM.\r\n \r\nB. Effect of experimental diet on the fish fillet\r\nThe intensity of color of the studied fish fillets were presented as low, high and higher in Figs. 1, 2 and 3. The Figures show the pigment intensity toward redness in a* zone (Pink fillet color) when fish fed with 4% and 6% red beet in their diet that were significant compared to other treatments (p< 0.05). The group of fish whom received control basal diet (without red beet) and 2% red beet in their food were exhibit low color intensity in L* zone (toward white).\r\nDISCUSSION\r\nThe diets supplemented with 6% red beet had negative effect on growth performances of the fish. Several studies showed that the use of high level of plant materials in the diet of fish, retards their growth and survival (Baron, 2007). As reported by Xiangjun et al., (2012), the increase in various pigments from some plant sources were not improved the growth and feed utilization of Japanese ornamental Carp (Koi) considerably. The main reason for this could be the high levels of carbohydrate and cellulose in plant sources. In addition, it might lead to negative effect on taste of food, physical quality of the pellets and nutritional imbalance in diet (Furr and clark, 1997).\r\nThe degree of this effect depends on the feeding regime of fish, since rainbow trout is carnivorous fish. Therefore, adding plant materials to their diet will be naturally restricted (Christianen, 1996). There is no relevant reference regarding to the use of red beet in diet of fish or other aquatic organism.\r\nIn this study, 4% level of red beet was found to be adequate to get desired coloration in rainbow trout. Further more, this level of red beet did not retarded the growth performances of studied fish. Similar results were obtained with Buyukcaparm (2007) when he used natural carotenoid sources like red pepper in the diet of rainbow trout. They found that 6% level was the best ratio to obtain desired coloration and weight gain. \r\n \r\n\r\n\r\n Neverian, Sharif and Bayrami 114\r\n \r\nIn present study, the optimum duration for perfect antocyanin pigmentation in rainbow trout was 60 days. Similar results were reported with Schiedt (1993) for optimum duration for absorption, retention and metabolic transformation of pigments such as carotenoids in salmonids and crustaceans. There was no trace of yellow color in rainbow trout in this study using red beet for pigmentation. However, in a study conducted by Buyukapar et al. (2007), they found yellow trace pigmentation in the fillet of rainbow trout when they used marigold flower of carotenoid sources in the diet of fish. This might be due to the deposition of Lutein or other xanthophylls from characterized by yellow color, however, the yellow pigmentation formed in the fish fed with marigold flower may not be desirable by consumers. Therefore, consumer preferences should be taken into consideration. Recently, Asadi Sharif et al. (2014) reported that the red beet juice powder up to 6% represented good effect on pigmentation and growth performances of Oscar fish. In another study, Noverian and Shabanipoor (2012) reported that the beet-root juice powder had a positive effect on coloration of skin and fillet of rainbow trout.\r\n','Hamid Allaf Neverian*, Ehsan Asadi sharif* and Abolfazl Bayrami (2014). Effect of Red Beet Juice (Beta vlgaris) on Pigmentation of Fillet and Growth Performance of Rainbow trout (Oncorhynchus mykiss) .Biological Forum – An International Journal 6(2): 110-114 .'),(4554,'120','Floristic Diversity along an Altitudinal Gradients in Hango Valley of Cold Desert in District Kinnaur, Himachal Pradesh','R.K. Verma','20 DR RK VERMA.pdf','',1,'Cold deserts-a unique ecosystem in itself, lies in the lap of Himalayas, which is quite fragile and sensitive. The biotic pressure on this particular ecosystem as exerted by increasing human and cattle population coupled with over exploitation has resulted in its ecological degradation. Accordingly, a study was conducted to understand the floristic diversity along an altitudinal gradient with elevations varying from 3400m to 5000m above msl in Hango valley falling in cold desert area of district Kinnaur, Himachal Pradesh. Total number of plant species was 130 belonging to 41 families and 101 genera. The dominant families were Asteraceae, Polygonaceae, Ranunculaceae, Lamiaceae and Umbelliferae. Number of tree species at 3400-3800m elevation was 3 with the dominance of Salix alba. The number of shrubs species were 9, 5, 3 and 2 with the dominance of Rosa webbiana, Cotoneaster microphyllus, Juniperus indica and Rhododendron anthopogon in the elevations of 3400-3800m, 3800-4200m, 4200-4600m and 4600-5000m respectively. The number of herb species were 73, 63, 36 and 30 at 3400-3800m, 3800-4200m, 4200-4600 and 4600-5000m elevation respectively. Heracleum candicans was dominant at 3400-3800m elevation and Bergenia stracheyi was dominant herbs at 3800-4200m, 4200-4600m and 4600-5000m elevation on the basis of Importance Value Index. The distribution pattern of most the plant species was contiguous in all the altitudinal ranges. Index of diversity for herb species in different elevation ranges was 3.82, 3.51, 3.20 and 3.18. The richness and evenness index was comparatively more in lower altitudinal ranges than higher altitudinal ranges indicating that species are evenly distributed in lower elevations. Index of similarity calculated for shrub and herb species indicating more dissimilarity of species between different altitudes. Out of 62 medicinal plant species recorded from the area, 18 species i.e. Aconitum violaceum, Arnebia euchroma, Bergenia stracheyi, Dactylorhiza hatagirea, Ephedra gerardiana, Ferula jaschkeana, Hippophae rhamnoides, Hyoscyamus niger, Hyssopus officinalis, Juniperus polycarpos, Meconopsis aculeata, Pleurospermum candollei, Rheum webbianum, Rhodiola heterodonta, Rhododendron anthopogon, Rhododendron campanulatum, Saussurea obvallata and Saussurea gossypiphora fall in the category of threatened plants. The better conservation of natural resources can be done through promotion of community based conservation, in-situ conservation through the establishment of nature reserves, ex-situ conservation through tissue culture, developing cultivation technologies and nurseries of medicinal plants and conducting of regular training on the procedure of medicinal plants collection and processing among the end users.','Floristic diversity, Dominance, Altitudinal gradients, Distribution pattern','Cold deserts-a unique ecosystem in itself, lies in the lap of Himalayas, which is quite fragile and sensitive. The biotic pressure on this particular ecosystem as exerted by increasing human and cattle population coupled with over exploitation has resulted in its ecological degradation. Accordingly, a study was conducted to understand the floristic diversity along an altitudinal gradient with elevations varying from 3400m to 5000m above msl in Hango valley falling in cold desert area of district Kinnaur, Himachal Pradesh. Total number of plant species was 130 belonging to 41 families and 101 genera. The dominant families were Asteraceae, Polygonaceae, Ranunculaceae, Lamiaceae and Umbelliferae. Number of tree species at 3400-3800m elevation was 3 with the dominance of Salix alba. The number of shrubs species were 9, 5, 3 and 2 with the dominance of Rosa webbiana, Cotoneaster microphyllus, Juniperus indica and Rhododendron anthopogon in the elevations of 3400-3800m, 3800-4200m, 4200-4600m and 4600-5000m respectively. The number of herb species were 73, 63, 36 and 30 at 3400-3800m, 3800-4200m, 4200-4600 and 4600-5000m elevation respectively. Heracleum candicans was dominant at 3400-3800m elevation and Bergenia stracheyi was dominant herbs at 3800-4200m, 4200-4600m and 4600-5000m elevation on the basis of Importance Value Index. The distribution pattern of most the plant species was contiguous in all the altitudinal ranges. Index of diversity for herb species in different elevation ranges was 3.82, 3.51, 3.20 and 3.18. The richness and evenness index was comparatively more in lower altitudinal ranges than higher altitudinal ranges indicating that species are evenly distributed in lower elevations. Index of similarity calculated for shrub and herb species indicating more dissimilarity of species between different altitudes. Out of 62 medicinal plant species recorded from the area, 18 species i.e. Aconitum violaceum, Arnebia euchroma, Bergenia stracheyi, Dactylorhiza hatagirea, Ephedra gerardiana, Ferula jaschkeana, Hippophae rhamnoides, Hyoscyamus niger, Hyssopus officinalis, Juniperus polycarpos, Meconopsis aculeata, Pleurospermum candollei, Rheum webbianum, Rhodiola heterodonta, Rhododendron anthopogon, Rhododendron campanulatum, Saussurea obvallata and Saussurea gossypiphora fall in the category of threatened plants. The better conservation of natural resources can be done through promotion of community based conservation, in-situ conservation through the establishment of nature reserves, ex-situ conservation through tissue culture, developing cultivation technologies and nurseries of medicinal plants and conducting of regular training on the procedure of medicinal plants collection and processing among the end users.','The diverse climate and the varied environmental conditions prevailing in Himalayas support diverse habitat and ecosystems with equally diverse life forms. Himalayas are one of the largest and youngest mountain chains in the world and cover roughly 10% of India total land surface. Variations in terms of its size, climate and altitudinal ranges have created environments those are unique and characteristic to this region only. It provides an important habitat to the flora and fauna including 9,000 species of angiosperms and hence, is considered as the hot spot of biodiversity. There are about 3,470 species considered exclusively endemic to the Himalayas. The cold deserts in India occur in Ladakh region of Jammu & Kashmir, Spiti valley of Lahaul and Spiti district and Pooh sub division of Kinnaur district of Himachal Pradesh. The total area under cold deserts in Himachal Pradesh is about 11,000 sq.km., out of which 3,400 sq.km. area is in Kinnaur district. Human pressure on natural ecosystems is intensifying, some being incompatible with survival of certain species of plants. In cold desert areas, continuous removal of plant species for various uses and overgrazing by migratory livestock have resulted in desertification and loss of biodiversity. \r\n \r\n Verma 116\r\n \r\nIf these naturally occurring plant resources are not timely conserved then they may soon become extinct. In cold desert this genetic erosion coupled with soil erosion may retard prospects of future economic development and welfare of the people. The assessment of plant wealth in this harsh cold arid belt may provide a key for its conservation. Keeping these aspects in view, a study was undertaken to know the plant diversity in Hango valley of cold desert in Kinnaur district of Himachal Pradesh.\r\nMATERIALS AND METHODS\r\nThe present study was conducted in Hango valley of cold desert area of Pooh sub division of district Kinnaur, Himachal Pradesh during, 2008 at an elevation of 3400m to 5000m. The study site was situated 31o49\'35.4\" to 31o48\'30.2\" N latitude and 78o 31\'99.8\" to 78o33\'83.0\" E longitudes. The whole area of the valley was divided into four altitudes i.e. 3400-3800m, 3800-4200m, 4200-4600m and 4600-5000m for conducting the phyto-sociological study. Quadrats were laid out in stratified random manner along the altitudinal transects. Quadrats of size 10mx10m, 3mx3m amd 1mx1m laid out randomly for enumerating trees, shrubs and herbs + regeneration respectively. A total of 20, 30 and 40 quadrats for tree, shrub and herb respectively were laid out in each altitudinal gradient. The seedlings were considered as herb while saplings as shrubs. The vegetation data was analysed for density, frequency and abundance according to formulae given by Curtis and McIntosh (1950). The relative values of density, frequency and dominance were summed to get Importance Value Index (IVI) of individual species. The abundance to frequency ratio (A/F) of different species was determined for eliciting the distribution pattern. This ratio indicates regular (<0.025), random (0.025 to 0.050) and contiguous (>0.050) distribution (Curtis and Cottam, 1956). The plant species diversity was calculated by using Shannon-Wiener diversity Index (H) (Shannon-Wiener, 1963).\r\n S H = - Σ (Ni/N) ln (Ni/N)\r\n i = 1\r\nConcentration of dominance (C) was measured by Simpson’s Index (Simpson, 1949). \r\n S C = Σ (Ni/N)2 \r\n i = 1 \r\nWhere Ni = importance value of species i and N= total importance value of all the species in both the indices. \r\nIndex of similarity and dissimilarity between different altitudes were calculated by using following formula (Misra, 1989). \r\nIndex of similarity, S = 2C / A+B \r\nWhere A= number of species in community A, B = number of species in community B, C = number of species common to both communities. \r\nIndex of dissimilarity = 1-S\r\nRichness Index was estimated as per Margalef (1958) i .e. R = S-1/ln N\r\nEvenness Index was calculated as per Hill (1973) i. e. E = H/ ln S\r\nWhere S = total number of species, N= total number of individuals of all the species, H = Index of diversity.\r\nRESULTS AND DISCUSSION\r\nAt elevation of 3400-3800m total number of tree species was 3 (Table 1) with the dominance of Salix alba followed by Populus alba and Juniperus polycarpos in term of density and frequency. For a particular species higher frequency indicates its more frequent distribution at a particular site. The value of abundance was maximum for Juniperus polycarpos followed by Salix alba and Populus alba. Importance Value Index is the most important parameter to understand the community organization in relation to the comparative ability. Salix alba recorded highest value of IVI (155.95) followed by Populus alba (125.04) and Juniperus polycarpos (19.01). The distribution pattern of Juniperus polycarpos was contiguous whereas for Populus alba and Salix alba it was random. The contiguous distribution is the commonest pattern in nature, random distribution is found in very uniform environment. The general preponderance of contiguous distribution in vegetation has been reported by several workers (Kershaw, 1973; Singh and Yadava, 1974; Kunhikannan et al., 1998). \r\nAmong the 9 species of shrubs including saplings (Table 2), Rosa webbiana was dominant species having maximum density and frequency. This was followed by Salix alba, Astragalus rhizanthus and Hippophae rhamnoides in term of density. The value of abundance was maximum for Salix alba followed Rosa webbiana, Ribes alpestre and Myricaria germanica. Rosa webbiana recorded highest value IVI (71.17) followed by Hippophae rhamnoides (68.56), Myricaria germanica (37.98) and Salix alba (34.63). The distribution pattern of all the species was contiguous. In case of herbs, total number of species was 73 at 3400-3800 m elevation (Table 3). Mentha longifolia was dominant herb followed by Arenaria festucoides, Heracleum candicans and Arnebia guttata in term of density.\r\nThe value of abundance was maximum for Ephedra gerardiana followed by Anemone rivularis, Thymus linearis and Arenaria festucoides. Heracleum candicans recorded highest value of IVI (33.11) followed by Ephedra gerardiana (19.72), Mentha longifolia (17.79) and Rumex nepalensis (12.05). The ratio of abundance to frequency indicates that distribution pattern of all species except Heracleum candicans and Verbascum thapsus was contiguous.\r\nAt 3800-4200m elevation, total number of shrub species was 5 (Table 4). Caragyna brevispina was dominant species followed by Astragalus rhizanthus with respect to density and abundance. On the basis of IVI, Cotoneaster microphyllus recorded highest value (100.50) followed by Caragyna brevispina (78.94), Astragalus rhizanthus (53.70) and Lonicera spinosa (37.22). The distribution pattern of all the species was contiguous. \r\nThe number of herb species was 63 (Table 5) at elevation of 3800-4200m and Arenaria griffithii was dominant species followed by Bergenia stracheyi, Anemone obtusiloba and Gentiana ornata with respect to density. The value of abundance was maximum for Arenaria griffithii followed by Bergenia stracheyi, Gentiana ornata and Anemone obtusiloba. Bergenia stracheyi recorded highest value of IVI (50.34) followed by Anemone obtusiloba (26.39), Arenaria griffithii (23.57) and Anaphalis \r\n \r\n\r\n Verma 120\r\n \r\ncontorta (15.17). The distribution pattern of all species except Meconopsis acuneata was contiguous. \r\nAt elevation 4200-4600m, total number of shrub species was 3 (Table 6). Juniperus indica was dominant species followed by Lonicera spinosa and Rhododendron anthopogon in term of density, frequency and abundance. Juniperus indica recorded highest value of IVI (190.27) followed by Rhododendron anthopogon (62.08) and Lonicera spinosa (47.66). The distribution pattern of all the species was contiguous. \r\nIn case of herbs, total number of species was 36 (Table 7) with the dominance of Bistorta affinis followed by Bergenia stracheyi, Arenaria festucoides and Potentilla parviflora in term of density. The value of frequency was maximum for Potentilla parviflora followed by Bistorta affinis and Bergenia stracheyi where as the value of abundance was maximum for Thymus linears followed by Arenaria festucoides, Androsace sarmentosa and Bergenia stracheyi. The distribution pattern of all the species except Rheum webbianum was contiguous. \r\nAt elevation 4600-5000m, total number of species was 2 (Table 8) with the dominance of Rhododendron anthopogon followed by Juniperus indica in term of density, frequency, abundance and IVI. The distribution pattern of both the species was contiguous. \r\nIn the present study tree cover was observed only at low elevation whereas shrub sratum was observed at all the elevation ranges. The number of shrub and herb species was more at low elevation as compared to higher elevational ranges.The value of concentration of dominance (C), index of diversity (H), richness index (R) and evenness index (E) for trees, shrubs and herbs at different altitudes was given in Table 10. The higher the value of concentration of dominance, the greater is the homogenous nature of the community and vice- versa (Kohli et al., 2004). The lower value of dominance shows that dominance of plants is shared by many species. The diversity indices and richness index was more in lower elevation indicating higher diversity of the species. The species diversity is regulated by long term factors like community stability and evolutionary time as heterogeneity of both macro and micro environment affects the diversification among different communities. The higher values of index of diversity indicate the variability in the type of species and heterogeneity in the communities, whereas, the lesser values point to the homogeneity in the community. The evenness index was comparatively more in lower altitudinal ranges than higher altitudinal ranges indicating that species are evenly distributed in lower elevations. \r\n: Values in parenthesis are index of dissimilarity.\r\n\r\n \r\nIndex of similarity for shrubs between 3400-3800m and 3800-4200m, between 3400-3800m and 4200-4600m, between 3400-3800m and 4600-5000m, between 3800-4200mm and 4200-4600mm, between 3800-4200m and 4600-5000m and between 4200-4600m and 4600-5000m was 0.57, 0.17, 0.0, 0.25, 0.0 and 0.80 respectively whereas, index of dissimilarity for the same was 0.43, 0.83, 1.0, 0.75, 1.0 and 0.20 respectively. This indicating less similarity of species between these elevations. Index of similarity for herb species between different altitudes was low as given in Table 11. This indicating more dissimilarity of species between different altitudes. The nature of plant community at a place is determined by the species that grow and develop in such environment. The differences in the species composition from altitude to altitude is mostly due to micro environment changes (Mishra et al; 1997).\r\nPlants of Medicinal Value: The important plants of medicinal value found in the Hango valley of cold desert area in Kinnaur district were compiled following Chopra et al (1956), Kirtikar and Basu (1987) and Kala (2002). These include, Aconitum violaceum, Aconogonum tortuosum, Anaphalis triplinervis, Anemone obtusiloba, Aster flaccidus, Astragalus rizanthus, Arnebia euchroma, Arnebia guttata, Cannabis sativa, Capparis spinosa, Clematis oriantalis, Bistorta affinis, Bergenia stracheyi, Bupleurum falcatum, Cassiope fastigiata, Chenopodium album, Chenopodium foliosum, Corydalis govaniana, Dactylorhiza hatagirea, Delphinium brunonianum, Ephedra gerardiana, Echinops cornigerus, Erigeron alpinus, Euphorbia stracheyi, Ferula jaeschkeana, Galium aparine, Gentinella moorcrogtiana, Plantago tibetica, Hippophae rhamnoides, Hyoscyamus niger, Hyssopus officinalis, Juniperus polycapos, Lactuca dissecta, Lactuca macrorhiza, Meconopsis aculeata, Mentha longifolia, Nepeta erecta, Nepeta podostachys, Oxyria digyna, Oxytropis laponica, Phlomis bracteosa, Pleurospermum candollei, Polygonum polystachya, Potentilla argyrophylla, Primula denticulata, Plantago lanceolata, Ranunculus laetus, Ranunculus hirtellus, Rheum webbianum, Rhodiola heterodonta, Rhododendron anthopogon, Rosa webbiana, Rumex nepalensis, Saussurea obvallata, Saussurea gossypiphora, Sedum ewersii, Selinum tenuifolium, Taraxacum officinale, Thymus linearis, Urtica dioica, Verbascum thapsus and Waldheimia glabra.\r\nThreatened Plants: Out of 62 medicinal plant species recorded from the area, 18 species i.e. Aconitum violaceum, Arnebia euchroma, Bergenia stracheyi, Dactylorhiza hatagirea, Ephedra gerardiana, Ferula jaschkeana, Hippophae rhamnoides, Hyoscyamus niger, Hyssopus officinalis, Juniperus polycarpos, Meconopsis aculeata, Pleurospermum candollei, Rheum webbianum, Rhodiola heterodonta, Rhododendron anthopogon, Rhododendron campanulatum, Saussurea obvallata and Saussurea gossypiphora fall in the category of threatened plants when compared with the available literature like Red Data Book and CAMP Report (Ved et al, 2003). \r\nThe habitat of most of the plant species have shrunk due to expansion of human population and environmental degradation primarily due to heavy live stock grazing, uncontrolled and unscientific harvest of species, unregulated tourism and construction of roads etc. The better conservation of natural resources can be done by inclusion of a section on the plant conservation especially of rare and endangered medicinal plants in the wild life protection act, promotion of community based conservation, in-situ conservation through the establishment of nature reserves, ex-situ conservation through tissue culture, developing cultivation technologies and nurseries of medicinal plants and conducting of regular training on the procedure of medicinal plants collection, processing among the local people, traders and real stake holders.\r\n','R.K. Verma (2014). Floristic Diversity along an Altitudinal Gradients in Hango Valley of Cold Desert in District Kinnaur, Himachal Pradesh .Biological Forum – An International Journal 6(2): 115-126.'),(4555,'120','Effects of Organic Acids Supplement on Performance and Gut Parameters in Male Japanese quail (Coturnix Coturnix)','Fouladi Peyman, Ebrahimnezhad Yahya, Aghdam Shahryar Habib, Maheri Sis Naser, Ahmadzadeh Alireza','21 EBRAHIMNEZHAD YAHYA.pdf','',1,'This experiment was conducted to evaluate usage organic acids supplement (acetic, lactic and butyric acids), in the basal diet and their effects on performance and gastrointestinal parameters on male Japanese quails in 35 day old period. Performance parameters include live body weight (LBW), body weight gain (BWG), feed intake (FI), and feed efficiency ratio (FCR), carcass, breast and thigh weight. Gastrointestinal parameters include the along of gastrointestinal tract (GIT), intestine weight, intestinal villus and crypt in male Japanese quail. A total of 560 Japanese quail were randomly divided in to 7 experimental treatments with 4 replicates and arranged in a completely randomized design. The experimental period lasted 5 weeks and during this period. Experimental diets consisted of: basal diet without organic acids supplement (T1), basal diet with 125 mg/kg acetic acid supplement (T2), basal diet with 105 mg/kg lactic acid supplement (T3), basal diet with 112 mg/kg butyric acid supplement (T4), basal diet with 62.5 mg/kg acetic acid and 52.5 mg/kg lactic acid supplement (T5), basal diet with 62.5 mg/kg acetic acid and 56 mg/kg butyric acid supplement (T6) and basal diet with 52.5 mg/kg lactic acid and 56 mg/kg butyric acid supplement (T7). Results for performance analyses showed the treatment contain of the lactic acid (T3), butyric acid (T4) and acetic acid (T2) alone, significantly increased the LBW (P<0.0001), WG (P<0.0001) and decreased FCR respectively (P<0.0005). Also, results showed the treatment contain of the lactic acid (T3) and butyric acid (T4) alone, respectively increased the FI significantly (P<0.0001). Carcass, breast and thigh weights, not significantly affected with the all of the experiment treatment, but treatment contain of the lactic acid (T3), have been increased numerically in these parameters. In the other hand, treatments contains of the butyric acid (T4), acetic acid and butyric acid (T6) and lactic acid and butyric acid (T7), respectively increased the intestinal weight significantly (P<0.0001). Furthermore, treatments contain butyric acid (T4), lactic acid and butyric acid (T7), lactic acid (T3) and acetic acid and butyric acid (T6), respectively increased the intestinal villi length in the jejunum significantly (P<0.0005). In addition, treatments contain acetic acid and butyric acid (T6), lactic acid (T3) and butyric acid (T4) respectively increased the intestinal crypt in the jejunum significantly (P<0.0001). Also, treatment contain lactic acid (T3) significantly decreased the GIT in Japanese quail (P<0.0001). In conclude the lactic acid even alone and too mid another organic acid improved the performance parameters in male Japanese quail at 35 days old. Also carcass, breast and thigh weights not significantly affected with all of the treatment. In the other hand butyric acid even alone and too mid another organic acid improved the intestinal parameters','Carcass, crypt, gastrointestinal, Japanese quail, microflora and villi.\r\n \r\n','This experiment was conducted to evaluate usage organic acids supplement (acetic, lactic and butyric acids), in the basal diet and their effects on performance and gastrointestinal parameters on male Japanese quails in 35 day old period. Performance parameters include live body weight (LBW), body weight gain (BWG), feed intake (FI), and feed efficiency ratio (FCR), carcass, breast and thigh weight. Gastrointestinal parameters include the along of gastrointestinal tract (GIT), intestine weight, intestinal villus and crypt in male Japanese quail. A total of 560 Japanese quail were randomly divided in to 7 experimental treatments with 4 replicates and arranged in a completely randomized design. The experimental period lasted 5 weeks and during this period. Experimental diets consisted of: basal diet without organic acids supplement (T1), basal diet with 125 mg/kg acetic acid supplement (T2), basal diet with 105 mg/kg lactic acid supplement (T3), basal diet with 112 mg/kg butyric acid supplement (T4), basal diet with 62.5 mg/kg acetic acid and 52.5 mg/kg lactic acid supplement (T5), basal diet with 62.5 mg/kg acetic acid and 56 mg/kg butyric acid supplement (T6) and basal diet with 52.5 mg/kg lactic acid and 56 mg/kg butyric acid supplement (T7). Results for performance analyses showed the treatment contain of the lactic acid (T3), butyric acid (T4) and acetic acid (T2) alone, significantly increased the LBW (P<0.0001), WG (P<0.0001) and decreased FCR respectively (P<0.0005). Also, results showed the treatment contain of the lactic acid (T3) and butyric acid (T4) alone, respectively increased the FI significantly (P<0.0001). Carcass, breast and thigh weights, not significantly affected with the all of the experiment treatment, but treatment contain of the lactic acid (T3), have been increased numerically in these parameters. In the other hand, treatments contains of the butyric acid (T4), acetic acid and butyric acid (T6) and lactic acid and butyric acid (T7), respectively increased the intestinal weight significantly (P<0.0001). Furthermore, treatments contain butyric acid (T4), lactic acid and butyric acid (T7), lactic acid (T3) and acetic acid and butyric acid (T6), respectively increased the intestinal villi length in the jejunum significantly (P<0.0005). In addition, treatments contain acetic acid and butyric acid (T6), lactic acid (T3) and butyric acid (T4) respectively increased the intestinal crypt in the jejunum significantly (P<0.0001). Also, treatment contain lactic acid (T3) significantly decreased the GIT in Japanese quail (P<0.0001). In conclude the lactic acid even alone and too mid another organic acid improved the performance parameters in male Japanese quail at 35 days old. Also carcass, breast and thigh weights not significantly affected with all of the treatment. In the other hand butyric acid even alone and too mid another organic acid improved the intestinal parameters','The removal antibiotic growth promoters from poultry diets necessitate search for natural alternatives as replacements in growing flocks, especially under conditions of average management and quality. Most supplements that are used as alternatives to antibiotics in poultry production such as plant materials or extracts such as herbs, essential oils, probiotics, prebiotics and organic acids, have effects on microflora, either directly or indirectly (Claiford, 1999). Gram positive bacteria are generally more sensitive to organic acids than gram-negative bacteria (Claiford, 1999). \r\nBecause of the growing concern over the transmission and proliferation of resistant bacteria via the food chain, the European Union (EU) in 2006 banned antibiotic growth promoters to be used as additives in animal nutrition. So there are used the need for alternative strategies to minimize the risk of spreading antibiotic resistance from animals to humans via food chain. The alternative which has showed some potential in this regard are organic acids. Organic acids and their salts are Generally Regarded as Safe (GRAS) and have been approved by most member states of the EU to be used as feed additives in animal production (Gornowicz et al., 2002; Dibner et al., 2005; Cakir et al., 2008).\r\n \r\n\r\n \r\n \r\nOrganic acids have growth promoting properties and can be used as alternatives to antibiotics (Patten and Waldroup 1988). The addition of organic acids to the broiler diet reduces the production of toxic components by bacteria and the colonization of pathogens in the GIT (Denli et al., 2003). Organic acids may affect the integrity of microbial cell membrane or cell macromolecules or interfere with nutrient transport and energy metabolism causing bactericidal effect (Ricke, 2003). Following organic acid feeding, reduction in gastric pH occurs which may increase the pepsin activity (Kirchgessner and Roth, 1982) and the peptides arising from pepsin proteolysis trigger the release of hormones, including gastric and cholecystokinin, which regulate the digestion and absorption of protein (Kirchgessner and Roth, 1982; Hersey, 1987). Organic acids supplementation have been reported to decrease colonization of pathogens and production of toxic metabolites, improve digestibility of protein and minerals like calcium, phosphorus, magnesium and zinc and also serve as substrates in the intermediary metabolism (Kirchgessner and Roth, 1988). The more of the previous study was carried on with the objectives to determine the effects of organic acids supplementation on the growth performance and intestinal microflora of broiler chickens. But, the aim of the present study was to evaluate the efficiency of organic acids supplementation as growth promoters in Japanese quail. In the other hand, in this study the alone effect of organic acids was estimated the performance and gastrointestinal parameters on the male Japanese quail. Japanese quails has a lab animal (Pointer et al., 2009) and this subject on the Japanese quail not carried out, so the aims of this study are the measured amounts of the growth rate, yield performance factors, gastrointestinal microflora and absorption parameters in GIT such as intestinal crypt depth and villi in Japanese quail with consumption of dissimilar organic acids supplement in diets. About quail in this subject not the similar research, so this experimental is an initiatory research and it has seem results in this study was interesting. In this study, alone effect and interaction effects of the organic acids were estimated on Japanese quail. \r\nMATERIALS AND METHODS\r\nA. Animals and diets\r\nA total of 560 one-day old Japanese quail chicks of from male and female sex were placed in 12 pens of 1.4×0.6 meters with twenty birds per each pen. Feed and water were provided ad libitum. After 20 days of the starting of experiment, male quails were separated from the female and arranged in to the treatment. The organic acids used in this experiment, include the acetic acid (pKa = 4.76, Purity = 80% and Density = 1.05 g/cm3), lactic acid (pKa = 3.86, Purity = 95% and \r\nDensity = 1.21 g/cm3) and butyric acid (pKa = 4.82, Purity = 90% and Density = 0.99 g/ml). The experimental design consisted in a completely randomized design with 7 treatments T1) basal diet without organic acids supplement, T2) basal diet with 125 mg/kg acetic acid supplement, T3) basal diet with 105 mg/kg lactic acid supplement, T4) basal diet with 112 mg/kg butyric acid, T5)basal diet with 62.5 mg/kg acetic acid + 52.5 mg/kg lactic acid, T6) basal diet with 62.5 mg/kg acetic acid + 56 mg/kg butyric acid and T7) basal diet with 52.5 mg/kg lactic acid + 56 mg/kg butyric acid, with four replicates. The experimental diets of were isonitrogenous and isoenergetic. All of the diets balanced for the DCAB and kept about in 250 (meq/kg). Diets were formulated by adding acetic acid (80%), lactic acid (95%) and butyric acid (90%) be based diet (corn and soybean meal) that met requirement recommended by the National Research Council (1994). Diets of balanced with the UFFDA software. The control diet was not enriched with organic acids supplement and was administered throughout the 21 days of experimental period (starter). The organic acids supplements were replaced with corn in diets during 2 different periods (grower and finisher). Crude protein levels and metabolisable energy was formulated with NRC (1994) recommendation. These diets (Table 1) were formulated to meet nutrient requirements according to NRC (1994). Diets were containing the same levels of methionine, lysine, vitamins and minerals. The treatment diets of were isoenergetic and isonitrogenous. Experimental diets include the three different organic acids such as:\r\nThe Japanese quails were weighted at the start of the experimental period, live body weight and total feed intake were recorded and feed conversion ratio was calculated at each week of the experiment. Mortality was also recorded for each treatment. Ingredient composition and nutrient analysis for each treatment is described in Table 2.\r\nB. Collection of samples \r\nIn the end of the experiment period at 35 day, four male Japanese quail from each replicate were selected. The birds slaughtered after weighting and the live body weight (LBW) was measured. Feed intake was determined the end of the each day. Afterward, feed conversion ratio (FCR) was calculated. BWG was determined during at 21 - 35 days old. In the end of the experiment at 35 day, male Japanese quail from each replicate were slaughtered after weighting and gastrointestinal track was evicted and with sodium chloride dilution (155 m/mol) for dispel the excretion has been washed. In the other hand, The 10 gram of the intestinal liquids was collection in vials then addition the formalin (10%) in the vial for fixation the tissue and immediately transfers to microbiological lab to determine the E. coli and salmonella population. \r\n\r\n Peyman, Yahya, Habib, Naser, Alireza 129\r\n \r\nGastrointestinal track after the measurement length kept in +4 centigrade and translated to histological lab for determine the intestinal viili height and crypt depth. Carcass after weighting were dissection, then breast, thigh, and intestinal was separated than carcass and weighting. \r\nRESULTS \r\nA. Performance parameters\r\nResult for performance parameters analyses shown in table 3. Result showed the treatments contain which lactic acid (T3), butyric acid (T4) and acetic acid (T2) respectively have highest effect on the LBW and BWG as significantly increased LBW between another treatments in male Japanese quail (P<0.0001). In addition, result showed the treatments contain which lactic acid (T3), lactic acid plus butyric acid (T7), acetic acid (T2) and butyric acid (T4) respectively have highest effect on the FI and significantly increased FI between another treatments (P<0.0001). Result showed the treatments contain which lactic acid (T3), butyric acid (T4) and acetic acid (T2) respectively have highest effect on the FCR and significantly decreased FCR between another treatments in male Japanese quail (P<0.0005). These results were according with some researchers finding (Ao et al., 2009; Mohamed and Bahnas, 2009; Abdel-Fattah et al., 2008; Lesson et al., 2005; Nuh Ocak et al., 2009; Moharrey, 2005; Denli et al., 2003; Fushimi et al., 2001; Adil et al., 2011). Result showed that with usage organic acid supplements in experimental diet, the LBW significantly increased and from 142.25 gram for treatment without organic acids supplement reached to 159.25, 160.21 and 169.17 grams respectively for treatments contains acetic acid (T2), butyric acid (T4) and lactic acid (T3) (P<0.0001). Also, result showed that with usage organic acid supplements in experimental diet, the BWG significantly increased and from 91.25 and 91.59 gram for treatment without organic acids supplement and treatment contain acetic acid plus butyric acid (T6) reached to 105.58, 100.25 and 99.62 grams respectively for treatments contains lactic acid (T3), butyric acid (T4) and acetic acid (T2) (P<0.0001). Also, with usage organic acids supplement in experimental diets, the FI significantly increased and from 551.70 gram for treatment without organic acids supplement reached to 569.25, 559.18, 555.25 and 552.00 gram respectively for treatments contains lactic acid (T3), lactic acid plus butyric acid (T7), acetic acid (T2) and butyric acid (T4) (P<0.0001).\r\nIn addition, result showed the treatments contain lactic acid (T3), butyric acid (T4) and acetic acid (T2) respectively decreased FCR from 3.88 for treatment without organic acids supplement reached to 3.36, 3.44 and 3.48 respectively for treatments contains lactic acid (T3), butyric acid (T4) and acetic acid (T2) (P<0.0005). \r\n\r\nB. Characteristics analyses\r\nResult for carcass characteristics analyses shown in table 4. Result for production parts parameters showed the all of the treatment not significantly affected on the carcass, breast and thigh weights. But treatment contain of the lactic acid (T3), have been increased numerically in these production parameters\r\nC. Gastrointestinal tract parameters\r\nResult for intestinal parameters analyses shown in table 5. Result showed the treatments contain which lactic acid (T3) and acetic acid (T2) respectively have highest effect on the gut size. Treatments contain lactic acid (T3) and acetic acid (T2) significantly decreased gastrointestinal track length between another treatments in male Japanese quail (P<0.0001). Therewith, result showed that with usage organic acid supplements in experimental diet, the gut length significantly decreased and 34.85 centimeter for treatment without organic acids supplement reached to 30.80 and 31.43 Cm respectively for treatments contains lactic acid (T3) and acetic acid (T2). Also result showed the treatments contain which butyric acid (T4) between another treatment contain the organic acids has a highest effect on the intestine weight in male Japanese quail as increased intestine weight significantly (P<0.0001), whereas result showed that with usage organic acid supplements in experimental diet, the intestine weight significantly increased from 3.21 gram for treatment without organic acids supplement reached to 4.31 gram for treatments contains butyric acid (T4). These results were according with some researchers finding (Denbove, 2000; Gunal et al., 2006; Garcia et al., 2007). Furthermore, it has noticeable interaction effects between acetic acid and lactic acid with butyric acid so the since treatment contain butyric acid (T4), treatment contain acetic acid plus butyric acid (T6) and lactic acid plus butyric acid (T7) have a highest effect on the intestine weight significantly (P<0.0001). With better attention between all of the treatments contain the butyric acid significantly increased the intestine weight. \r\n \r\n\r\nExamination of jejunum epithelium by light microscopic of semi thin section from male Japanese quail exposed to 35 day old, result showed marked morphological changes in intestinal villi and crypt depth so treatment contain butyric acid (T4) has a highest effect on intestinal viili and crypt depth so increased significantly into another treatments contain organic acid (P<0.0005 and P<0.0001, respectively). More attention between all of the treatments contain the butyric acid significantly increased the intestine villi and crypt depth such as treatment contain acetic acid plus butyric acid (T6) and lactic acid plus butyric acid (T7). In continues, result showed with usage organic acids supplements in experimental diets, the intestinal villi significantly increased from 89.50 µm for treatment without organic acids supplement reached to 133.81, 132.90 and 131.18 µm respectively for treatments contains lactic acid (T4), actic acid plus butyric acid (T7) and acetic acid plus butyric acid (T6). Also, data showed, with usage organic acids supplements in experimental diets, the intestinal crypt depth significantly increased from 51.25 micrometer for treatment without organic acids supplement reached respectively to 75.51, 74.80 and 74.51 µm for treatments contains lactic acid plus butyric acid (T7) and acetic acid plus butyric acid (T6). These results were according with some researchers finding (Miles et al., 2006; Sheikh et al., 2010), with handling the gastrointestinal bacteria population, examination of jejunum paunch by light microscopic from male Japanese quail exposed to 35 day old.\r\nMeans in rows with no common superscript differ significantly (P<0.05).\r\n[(T1, basal diet without organic acids supplement), (T2, basal diet with 125 mg/kg acetic acid supplement), (T3, basal diet with 105 mg/kg lactic acid supplement), (T4, basal diet with 112 mg/kg butyric acid), (T5, basal diet with 62.5 mg/kg acetic acid + 52.5 mg/kg lactic acid), (T6, basal diet with 62.5 mg/kg acetic acid + 56 mg/kg butyric acid) and (T7, basal diet with 52.5 mg/kg lactic acid + 56 mg/kg butyric acid)]\r\n \r\nDISCUSSION\r\nIn marginal study has been reported the organic acids not significantly effects on the performance parameters in Japanese quail (Cave, 1984). In contrast, the result of same studies has been showed the some organic acids such as Propionic acid, lactic acid and acetic acid have a significantly effect on the performance parameters in Japanese quail (Fushimi et al., 2001; Denli et al., 2003; Moharrey, 2005; Lesson et al., 2005; Abdel-Fattah et al., 2008; Ao et al., 2009; Mohamed and Bahnas, 2009; Nuh Ocak et al., 2009; Adil et al., 2011;). In the other hand, this research results have been shown highest effect of lactic acid on the increase the LBW, BWG and FI and improved the FCR in 35 days old Japanese quail. Whitherward, treatments of the organic acids not significantly effect on the yield parameters, but treatments contain the lactic acid numerically improvement the carcass, breast and thigh weight but no significant. Lactic acid has a bottommost pKa (3.86) between the acetic acid (pKa = 4.76) and butyric acid (pKa = 4.82), has a maximum acidity power toward another organic acids it used in this study (Samanta and \r\nGhosh, 2008). Therefore, it has seemed the lactic acid were limited the pathogen microorganisms in the feed and GIT (Apajalahti et al., 2004; Garrido et al., 2004; Bourassa et al., 2005; Moharrery and Mahzonieh, 2005; Harris et al., 2006; Laury et al., 2009; Hassan et al., 2010). In addition it has seemed the lactic acid decreased the pathogen microorganisms in crop and decreases the competition for nutrient between the quails and bacteria. In finally with decrease the competition for nutrient between the quails and microorganism, digestibility of the feeds and absorption the nutrient has improved in the gastrointestinal tract. Whitherward, some researches was reported the lactic acid is palatable for birds (Apajalahti et al., 2004; Garrido et al., 2004; Bourassa et al., 2005; Moharrery and Mahzonieh, 2005; Harris et al., 2006; Laury et al., 2009; Hassan et al., 2010), so it has presumably this feature of the lactic acid author the increase of the feed intake in this trial and this confederation is a causation the increase LBW and BWG. Mid improved the live body weight and feed intake, FCR has an improvement impress the treatments contain the lactic acid.\r\nIn addition, result has been showed; the treatments contain of butyric acid have a highest significantly effects on the increase the intestinal villi height and crypt depth in male Japanese quail at 35 days old. It has seemed the butyric acid has a not catalysis in above zone of the GIT such as crop, preventricoulos and gizzard and his effects has survived until the intestines so this leads to increase intestinal villi height and crypt depth in male Japanese quail. In the other hand, increase the intestinal villi height and crypt depth lead to significantly increase the total weight of the GIT as the all of the experimental treatment contain the butyric acid causation improved the GIT weight in this trial. In the other hand, it has seemed the butyric acid in this experiment with increase the secretion of gastrin hormone and this gnomon has a simulations roles on the intestinal villi height and crypt depth development (Apajalahti et al., 2004; Garrido et al., 2004; Bourassa et al., 2005; Moharrery and Mahzonieh, 2005; Harris et al., 2006; Laury et al., 2009; Hassan et al., 2010). In issue, it has seemed the lactic acid alone in comparison with the acetic acid and butyric acid has positive effects on the performance parameters and carcass characteristic in Japanese quail. In conclude the lactic acid even alone and too mid another organic acid improved the performance parameters in male Japanese quail at 35 days old. Also carcass, breast and thigh weights not significantly affected with all of the treatment. In the other hand butyric acid even alone and too mid another organic acid improved the intestinal parameters. \r\n','Fouladi Peyman, Ebrahimnezhad Yahya, Aghdam Shahryar Habib, Maheri Sis Naser, Ahmadzadeh Alireza (2014). Effects of Organic Acids Supplement on Performance and Gut Parameters in Male Japanese quail (Coturnix Coturnix) .Biological Forum – An International Journal 6(2): 127-134 .'),(4556,'120','Effects of Canola Oil Peroxide at Different Replicate of Heating on Blood Parameters in Japanese Quail','Ali Hajizadeh and Habib Aghdam Shahryar','22 HABIB AGHDAM SHAHRYAR.pdf','',1,'This experiment was conducted to evaluate the effects of different levels (0, 2 and 4%) of canola oil and 2 levels of heat (1 and 2 time heated) on blood biochemical parameters of Japanese quails. This study carried out in factorial (3×2) experiment based on completely randomized design with 360 of Japanese quails in 6 treatments and 3 replicate for 35 of day. In this study, blood biochemical parameters are evaluated. Experimental diets based on corn and soybean meal. Different levels of canola oil and heat have no significant effect on serum glucose, cholesterol, HDL and LDL levels in Japanese quail. Serum triglyceride concentrations in quails fed with 4% oil (heated twice) was significantly higher than the other treatments (P<0.05). Using of canola oil can decrease quails blood HDL and LDL.','Canola oil, heating, blood parameters, Japanese quail','The overall results indicated that in Japanese quails adding canola oil until 4% without any adverse effects on blood biochemical parameters of broilers is possible, but treating 2 times with heat has adverse effects in these respects and is recommended to decrease the triglyceride amount.\r\n \r\n\r\n','Broiler production plays a major role in food security for the rapidly increasing Cambodian human population. Their short production cycle, high feed efficiency and high biomass per unit of agricultural land are particularly attractive for the Cambodian production system. However, compared to other domestic animals, broiler chickens are more susceptible to changing environmental conditions (Nolan et al., 1999).\r\n The most practical method for increasing the energy density of diets in poultry feeding is through the addition of fats and oils (Peebles et al., 2000). It was reported that fat metabolism and deposition in poultry could be affected by different dietary fats and fatty acids (Snaz et al., 2000; Pesti et al., 2002). Also they assist vitamin A and Ca absorption (Sklan, 1980; Corino et al., 1980; Leeson and Atteh, 1995). Some concerns that should be noted with fat utilization include: use of higher levels of fat may negate the effects of pelleting, measurement of metabolizable energy (ME) content can be difficult, there is the potential for rancidity, equipment needs relative to fat additions must be adequate and potentially poor digestibility of saturated fats by the young bird (Chen and Chiang, 2005). By increasing fat sources to the diets of broilers, amount of feed intake decreased and improved feed efficiency (Jeffri et al., 2010). Increasing dietary fat improved feed efficiency, but also may result in increased fat deposition (Salmon and Neils, 1971; Rivas and Firman, 1994). Carcass percentage, proventriculus, pancreas, spleen, heart and abdominal fat pad weights (as a percent of live weight) were not affected by using different levels of fish oil. Where as inclusion at 4% level, increased the thigh, breast, liver and small intestine weights (P<0.05). One of the oil sources in broiler chick\'s nutrition is canola oil. Canola oil has been recognized as adequate mixture of essential fatty acids, unsaturated fatty acids such a linolenic acid (C18:3) that can improve broiler performance, also linolenic acids can be converted to longer chain omega-3 fatty acids (Sim et al., 1990; Yang et al., 2000) that is an important factor in animal feeding and is for promote of health (Bezard et al., 1994). Adding 3% of canola oil and poultry fat resulted in significant improvement in body weight and better feed conversion ratio in fed groups 3 % canola oil and poultry fat than other groups observed, no significant different were found in liver, breast, thigh weights in between groups fed lipid in comparison with the control group. Addition of 6% poultry fat caused significant increasing on abdominal fat, gizzard weight was significantly higher in control group in comparison with supplemented groups (Aghdam Shahryar et al., 2011). It has been accepted that dietary canola oil is excellent supplement for commercial fish such as salmon (Huang et al., 2008). On the other hand canola oil contains less than 2% of erucic acid (docosenoic acid, C22:1, n-9) in relation to the total fatty acid and less than 30 µmoles of glucosinolates per gram of free oil on seed dry matter basis. In birds, the adverse effects of adding erucic acid to the diets are reflected on intake, growth and the apparent digestibilities of total lipid and individual fatty acids (Leeson and Summers, 2001). Furthermore, chicks fed with diets containing erucic acid deposit less fat and utilize energy from this lipid less frequently (Leeson and Summers, 2001). \r\nIn the present experiment the effects of three levels of canola oil (0, 2 and 4 percents) and 2 levels of heat (1 and 2 times of heating) were investigate on blood biochemical of Japanese Quails.\r\nMATERIALS and METHODS\r\nThis study was conducted as 3×2 factorial experiment with 3 levels of canola oil (0, 2 and 4) and 2 levels of heat (1 and 2 time heated). In this experiment 360 Japanese quail were allocated randomly to 6 experimental diets. The diets and water was provided ad libitum. To study the effects of different dietary treatments on blood parameters, blood samples were collected from birds in each treatment.\r\n The data were subjected to analysis of variance procedures appropriate for a completely randomized design using the General Linear Model procedures of SAS Institute (2005). Means were compared using the Duncan multiple range test. Differences were considered significant at P<0.05.\r\nRESULTS and DISCUSSION\r\nThe effects of different levels of canola oil and heat and interactions of them on blood biochemical parameters in Japanese quail are summarized in Table 1. There were no significant differences between treatments with added dietary canola oil. Treating of diets with 1 and 2 times heat showed no significant on blood parameters. The interaction of canola oil × heating times had \r\nsignificant effect on HDL of Japanese quail (P<0.05). The highest and lowest HDL (130 mg/dl) and (79.67 mg/dl) resulted in groups with 4% of canola oil and one and 2 times heating respectively. The reasons those mentioned about canola oil, could also cause significant difference in interactions between canola oil levels and treating with heat. Compared with the levels of canola oil, interaction canola oil × heat time could not significantly affect the amount of glucose, cholesterol HDL and LDL. However using canola oil and heat time had adverse effects on amount of triglyceride.\r\nPal et al., (2002) reported that the type of fat added to the diet did not affect the glucose levels and omega-3 fatty acids changed the effects of insulin and glucagon on the plasma glucose. Atakisi et al., (2009) reported that omega-3 fatty acids reduced egg and plasma cholesterol as well as plasma glucose level and no change was observed in triglyceride levels with the supplementation in quails. Zanini et al., (2008) reported that supplementing broiler diets with canola oil resulted in a decrease in the lipid content of edible portions. Lipid accretion accounts for part of the body mass of animals and birds. It would therefore appear that in quail, canola oil could probably cause a decrease in lipid accretion of tissues which could explain the similarities in the growth performance of the quail. Magubane et al., (2013) observed that female quail on a standard diet supplemented with canola oil (10% w/w) had significantly higher (P<0.05) plasma triglycerides compared to their counterparts on the control diet.\r\n','Ali Hajizadeh and Habib Aghdam Shahryar (2014). Effects of Canola Oil Peroxide at Different Replicate of Heating on Blood Parameters in Japanese Quail. Biological Forum – An International Journal 6(2): 135-137 .'),(4557,'120','The effect of mechanization level on canola production\r\nin south of Iran\r\n','S. Bidarigh* ','23 BIDAEGH @ HASHEMI.pdf','',1,'In this study the effect of mechanization level on canola production was investigated by dividing the producers based on mechanization level and using of mechanization index in production function. The result showed that in low mechanization group following 10% increase in water, poison and chemical fertilizer (labor) application, the output will increase (decrease) about 4.3,2.2 and 6.2 (8.7) percent respectively .In the high mechanized group (farmers), specified that water, labor and machinery inputs have a negative effect on production and positive impact on seed. Evaluation the effect of mechanization based on value of total inputs in industry showed that following 10% increase in mechanization the yield will increase about 1.3 percent. Also the results of another pattern that using machinery cost to total machinery and labor cost ratio, showed that 10% increment in the mentioned index, the canola production per area will increase about 6.9 percent.','Canola, mechanization, production, Fars province, ','Generally could to said that the used method were able to show difference between groups view point of mechanization level. Based on n analysis that in which the producers divided to two groups according to mechanization level. Even though production function analysis have little contribution to mechanization effect analysis, but comparison based on correlation coefficient was clear and obvious and could to show the distance between groups nicely. \r\nA part from result that obtained from producing function of each groups, producers division method and procedure based on applying level of chemical fertilizer, irrigation equipments and machinery could be presented as appropriate pattern for separation the producer to two groups with difference mechanization level. Suggested index of Karter et al (1999) and mead (2000) have suitable ability to express the effect of mechanization and interfere more factors in mechanization on of producing. But anyhow this index showed that more use of produced inputs in industry part have positive and significant effect on production. From significance of this variable furthermore direct analysis of this index as effect of mechanization on producing, the dividing of producers to two different level of mechanization could gather. \r\n \r\n Bidarigh 145\r\n \r\nBecause of main difference produced input indices in industry part is use of poison in index calculating as compared with process that divided producers into two mechanization level. Presented index by Single (2006) have effect similar goods index effect that it is produced in industry part and appeared existence of remarkable mechanization effect on production. Similar gathered from previous index possibility of group separation could be expressed again according to mechanization level. Considerable size difference of two indexes could be known as results of difference in parts. For suggestions presentation according to separation results of groups with high and low mechanization in view of opposition among regression analysis findings and correlation, often attempted to use from correlation analysis results.\r\nAccording to these research findings the following suggestion could be presented:\r\n1. Increment of mechanization level by emphasis on input among producers.\r\n2. Increase (decrease) use of seed (labor) input among producers.\r\n3. Increase usage of seed, fertilizer, poison and machinery among producers with low mechanization level.\r\n4.among producers with high mechanization level because of positive relation of machinery chemical fertilizer, poison ,seed and water with each other it is necessary to increase their apply simultaneously .\r\n5. Among producers with high mechanization level in view of relation of other variable with yield and also between inputs is negative with the exception of seed input, thus at least could be said under current condition more use of inputs per area isn\'t suggest able This suggestion about scarcity of input water in view point of its high use and its probable negative effect on production have more emphasis.\r\n6. Pay attention to ecological and local differences in mechanization effect analysis and scientific suggestions.\r\n','Edible oil is one of foodstuffs that supply through import, and yearly part of foreign exchange allocated to this goods. For Example in 2001 more than 1925 bilion Rials allocated to import of import of this commodity (plan and management organization, 2000). Interior resource developing for edible oil production can be a suitable way to economize foreign exchange that allocated to this commodity. Among oily grains canola is at third place with 14.7 percent of total vegetable oil that produce in the world, attar Soya and oily palm. Large amount of oil in canola grain that in some cultivars reach to 48 percent and also suitable composition of fatty aids of breaded cultivar caused the canola dominant on the word oil bazaar, (Dehshiri, 2001). Extending of canola cultivation in Iran is possible and could be effective to decrease the affiliation to foreign along with development of olive cultivation. Producing of this crop has been reached from 50-65 ton since 1372 to 17090 ton at 2002 (Agriculture research and education organization, 2002). Because of importance of mentioned items, it seems that increase in canola production is necessary and capable.\r\n Generally, the producing increase through two way :\r\n(i) Increase in cultivation area.\r\n(ii) Yield increase per area.\r\nBecause of scarcity of important factors such as water, must be tried to increase yield through applying proper inputs and usage of new techniques .Awareness from optimal economy use of inputs is important for programming.\r\n Because extreme use of them in addition to low production cause cost increase and to be wasted national investment too. Totally Mazandaran and Golestan province are 80 percent of canola production of Iran .Fars province also is in fifth place with 340 ton production and about 2% of country production. Presence of diversity of climate in Fars province and also adaptation of various cultivars of canola to ecological diversity, has made this province to potential area for canola cultivation (Agriculture ministry, 2002). So this study can to take as a trying to investigate In this study has been tried that evaluated producing condition among canola producers in fars province view point of mechanization level and investigate its effect on producing by use of related indices. Considering that used approaches for economy analysis\'s and demonstrating syllogistic analysis\'s between two group of producers with different mechanization level that are based on producing.\r\nFunction approach in this chapter have been presented some of studies that is done into and out of country which performed for economy analysis by using of sorgam difference exploitation in India rising from mechanization growth.\r\nStudy of Deng et.al., (2005) showed that 45% of production growth of agriculture in china rising from growth nd technological inputs (chemical fertilizer ,machinery and irrigation).\r\nSingh (2006) showed that during 1971-96 about 74% of agriculture crop yield increase in India rising from mechanization growth Haji Rahmi (1996) compared two groups of dry farmers (Row planter and hand seeded ) in Bukan area by syllogistic analysis.\r\n \r\n \r\n Bidarigh 139\r\n \r\nThe results of this study showed that use of Row planter in total, resulted to more logical use of produced factors. Kuroda (1987) introduced that change in agriculture, labor operation in India resulting from changes in producing factor cost and tending to technology change.\r\nRandhir and Krishna Noorthys (1990) were investigated, farmer operation among two group of Indian producers who are in different level with the view point of irrigation equipments usage have an important rolein exploitation increase. Lilyan et.al, findings among developing countries showed that the main increase in crop has been accomplished through increase in machinery and chemical inputs. Tiongco and Dawa (2002) believed that use of rice intensive technology among philippine rice growers relatively caused operation increase of producing factors. Gerdin (2002) estimated that total operation growth of producing factors in kenia during 1964-1996 is equal to 0.36%. According to Kazemnejhad and Kupahi study (1996) total operation of labor inputs obtained wqual to 3088.\r\n Also total operation of used seed, number of irrigation and consumed poison for garlic producing in Hamedan obtained 0.0009, 0.2 and 0.17 respectively.\r\nSeyedan (2001), Salami (2001) by use of profiting index of total producing factors estimated the normal size of Resture width for each family in Fars province equal to303 hactar.\r\n Seyedan findings (2002) showed that more that than 50% of sugar beet growers of Hamedan have negative operation.\r\nMATERIALS AND METHODS\r\nProduction function of kab-Doglass expresses the relation between crop and specific input sand shows the effect of producing factor such as labor, irrigation and technology on crop (Fan, 1991; Lin,1992; Ahmad and Bravo-urata, 1995; Kaufman and Snell, 1997; Carter and Zhang, 2001; Deng et al, 2005). This model compared to another models has characteristics that has been resulted it is more proportionate with economy theory. Desired characteristics are flexibility in turning into data and low sensivity toward total error occurred in observations (sharama et al., 1997). The results of Ferdosi and Yazdani research (1374) in cotton producing investigation had indicated a superiority of kb- Doglass model to Transcendental model view point of mentioned subjects, in this study used fromkab- Doglass function too. Total form of mentioned function is as following: \r\n I = l,…………….,n\r\n n\r\n Y=A ∏ xiBi\r\n i =1 \r\nThat in with x is inputs or predating factor vector, Bi is estimated parameters ad shoes the share of selected producing factors in Y crop producing and parameter A shows Torsh model, and include error sentences resulting from canceling some factors rising from difference between zone in model (Deng et.al., 2005). This function becam linear due to logarithm and it is computable it h O.l.S method (minimum normal squares). One of main characteristics of this function is congenial ∑nB1 degree and also each of coefficients show partial tension producing of each input. While show total yield coefficient to measure.\r\n In this research athirst by use of k-mean clustering analysis method, producers divided to two level of mechanization and for each of them estimated kab-Doglass producing function separately .\r\nk-mean method for classifying the observation, first each item related to cluster that have the nearest distance (mean) to central observation. Then Euclids distance of each observation from center of bunch is calculated and allocated to the nearest bunch again. Euclids distance between two observation is as following too, (Johnson and Vichern, 2000): \r\n\r\n D(x,y)√ (x-y)\' A (x-y)\r\nWhere in A = S-1 and S is variances and covariance\'s matrix of sample. Comparison with competitor method to cluster, this method is preferred,(Johnson and Vichern, 2000). Benefit of this method is that without need to information of number of dividable cluster cn classify the observations, (SPSS Inc, 2002). By use of this method and follow by apply from Deng et.al., findings (2005) the producers divided into two groups based on level use of items such as chemical fertilizer, irrigation equipments and machinery. Then only observation that based on each three measured belonged to one level of mechanization (high and low mechanization level) were placed in one group and the observation that were placed in different group based on mentioned inputs were not used. Furthermore above approached, two mechanization indices defined as on independence variable and used from them into keb-Doglass function. These indices defend so: first index was obtained from Karter et al., study (1999) and mid study, (2000). They believe that amount of input use which have made in industry part are indicating of producers mechanization level. For this reason, the inputs which were made in industry part such as chemical fertilizer, kinda of poison, machinery and irregation equipments used as index that express mechanization in kab-doglass producing function.\r\nAlso Singel (2006) has introduced following ratio as index that express mechanization :\r\n Cm\r\n I = \r\n CH+CA+CM\r\n\r\n\r\n \r\n Bidarigh 140 \r\nThat in which I is indicating mechanization level, CM, CH and CA are machinery use cost, labor and beast force respectively. In view point of introduced indices the form of producing function is Y = Ax1a1 …xnan IB that in which X is inputs vector or producing factor, ai and B are estimating parsmeter and they indicate portion of selected producing factor in Y crop producing. It is mechanization index and parameter A including Torsh model. \r\nProfiting (putting into operation). Generally, two kind of maximum and moderate profiting was used. Maximum profiting is amount of taken that last unit of given ratio, (Salami, 2001). Maximum profiting specify simply by estimating of producing function. In the case of kab - Doglass function MP states. So, mp =e1Y.X . That in which Y is crop and xi is inputs and ei is tension of each inputs. In this research, data was obtained through completing the questionnaire among canola producer in Eqlid and jahrom city .Statistic sample was selected by using of random method and included 63 producers. Also for data analysis was applied from Views 4 and SPSS 11 software\r\nRESULTS AND DISCUSSION\r\nIn this study for investigating the effect of mechanization on producing among elected producers in Fars province (Eqlid and Jahrom zon) was used from conducted three method that used from complex index of Deng et.al study (2005) and based on that producers divided to groups with different mechanization level. In continuation in this method estimated amount of id of each factors between two groups and analyzed. Based on way that mentioned in research methodology for classifying the observations, 24 observations placed in high mechanization level and 28 observation reposed in low mechanization level and 11 observation were not used because of difference replacement in different groups according to applying introduced inputs level. In second method it used from karter et al., (1999) and mid (2000) definition to investigate the effect of mechanization. In third method, it used from singh index (2006).\r\nA). Analysis the effect of mechanization based on cluster analysis in clustering and comparison two groups viewpoint of inputs level usage, first result of correlation coefficients estimation, (Table 1) and then result of kub-Doglass producing function estimation (Table 2) has been presented for each group. \r\nA) Producers with low mechanization:\r\nA s you seen at table (1) Relation between yield is negative just with labor variable. But labor variable coefficient both view point of statistics and absolute rate have low importance .The relation between yield and another variables is positive that this relation except seed input in case of another variables have significant importance. According to above coefficient chemical fertilizer have most correlation with crop yield (67.4%) correlation coefficient between yield and machinery inputs, water and poison are 55.5, 49.8 and 46.8 percent respectively. Also correlation coefficient with three mentioned variable is relatively high too. The results of kub-Doglass production function estimation for producers with low mechanization level has been shown in Table 2.\r\nThe correlation between machinery input just have significant importance with two chemical fertilizer variables correlation between chemical fertilizer with poison seed and water inputs is positive and significant. Looking to results of table (1) and (2) shows that in the case of poison, water and chemical fertilizer inputs there are a relative conformity between results of two methods. In the case of mentioned variable the coefficient are closed to each other ,and they have same sign and they are significant. About machinery input there are basic contradiction between result of two table, in the case of this input furthermore significant difference, their sign is adverse too. As you saw in correlation coefficient table, the correlation between poison and seed coefficient with another inputs is high. Necessarily first poison variable canceled from pattern and then one pattern estimated without presence of seed variable. The results of Torsh test method of Reset Ramsy showed that by deleting poison variable the pattern will engage Torsh expression raising from essential variable omission and so the seed variable deleted from pattern. As you see in this table the coefficient of labor variable is negative .It means that increment of this usage cause decrease production level. Findings of Seydan (2002) showed that about 85% of sugar beet producers in Hamedan. More use of labor input cause production decrease. Also about poison and chemical fertilizer variables expected that by increase use of this inputs increase the production .According to 10% increment in use of water, poison and chemical fertilizer (labor) inputs crop production rate will increase (decrease) about 4.3, 2.2 and 6.2 (8.7) percent respectively. Another variable that have significant effect on producing lever of producers is place illusive variable. In this pattern place difference in two elected Zone (Eqlid and Jahrom) took into consideration by use of one illusive variable containing two level, the level 1 for Eqild producers and level 2 for jahrom producers. \r\n \r\n Bidarigh 142\r\n \r\nAccording to this variable coefficient, the production condition is more desirable than its condition in jahrom zone. Then it observed that the producers don\'t operate coefficients in view point of production function figure, indicate efficiency to measure ratio.\r\nTotal significant coefficient of model is positive (+0.4). So efficiency to measure ratio of producers is descending. There for by 100% increment in all inputs, producing rate per area will increase 40%. According to F factor, total variable that was used in model have significant importance. These variables able to explain more than 71% of variation in production per area (yield) of producers. The results of parent test express nonexistence of variance heterogeneous.\r\n Also findings of Resot Ramsy test indicated the lack presence of Torsh expression. According to difference in the results of two analyses of correlation and regression, it is necessary that take caution with results. Total profiting of significant variable including chemical fertilizer, water, labor and poison obtained equal with 4.82,73,-356 and -1.8 respectively. Therefore one unit (kg) increment in applying of chemical fertilizer will have 4.82 kg increase in crop. Also increase in water use amount 1000 m3, will cause 73 unit increment in crop .increase in labor use amount one day-person in one hectare will cause 356 kg decrease in crop. In case of poison, more use of it equal with 1000 Rials will result 4.3 kilograms increase in crop.\r\nB) Producers with high mechanization level:\r\nIn this group also first investigated relation between variables by looking at this table results, it specify that relation between yield with inputs, excepted about seed input , have no significant importance. Correction between machinery usage level with poison and water is positive and significant correlation with none of another inputs. Among elected producer the most usage of labor related to use of it in crop irrigation, there fore positive correlation between these two inputs that has been came is based on expectation. Comparison of results in both tables (1) and (2) indicate that producers with high mechanization level also there are opposition between correlation and regression coefficient for both labor and chemical fertilizer variables , similar previous group view point of sign. Of course about labor has been seen adverse process too.\r\n According to correlation analysis expect to be a positive relation between amount of labor and production (yield) usage. While in regression analysis it observe inverse process and coefficient rate and also statistics importance is remarkable too. About of another inputs except in case of seed input, lack of conformity is in form of contradiction in statistics importance. About input difference between coefficient of this variable in two analysis\'s is very high and considerable. The results of estimation of prodution function of producer with high mechanization level have been presented in table (2). In this group used water, labor and machinery inputs on producing have negative and significant effect. So it is expected that by increase of these inputs usage the production rate will decrease. Similar to low mechanization level group in here the effect of poison and chemical fertilizer inputs on canola production are positive but in this group those effect have no significant importance. Just seed input have positive and significant effect on canola production. It is essential to say that about high mechanization level group, the poison variable eliminate from pattern because of intensive Together line of poison variable with another variables. According to absolute tension to each input the highest aid related to seed input that have positive effect on production.\r\nTotal significant coefficients of estimated function indicate reduction efficiency to measure ratio. By 100% increase of used inputs it is expected that the production rate increase about 3.2 percent. By help of usage variable in function you can chase about 62% of changes in canola yield among produces with high mechanization level .Also the rate of F factor states whole model significance with 95% safety level (5% probability). Similar to estimated model for low mechanization level producers the used tests had been indicated that lack of variance anisotropy and Torsh expression result from important variables including seed water, labor and machinery obtained equal with 596, -32, -160 and 02 respectively. Therefore one unit (kg) increment in seed usage will increase in water usage, amount of 1000m3 will decrease 32 unit in crop .Also increment in labor use amount of one day - person in one hectare will cause decrease in crop. In case of machinery more usage of machinery equal with 1000 Rials will decrease 2 kg in crop. View point of much difference among result obtained from correlation and regression relation, there were used from indices for analysis. In next part the findings have been presented that obtained from indices usage.\r\nB) Analysis of the effect of mechanization according to mechanization indices.\r\nIn this method total value of used inputs including chemical fertilizer and poison, irrigation equipments and machinery calculated as one index and used in production function.\r\nFormerly of presence of expression results, first estimated correlation between used variable in production function by applying of Pierson correlation coefficient. According to results of table (3) considered that there are positive and significant correlation between yield and mechanization index and seed. Also there was significant correlation between mechanization with labor and water inputs. Positive correlation between this index and used water is based on expectation. It expected that water availability to be more following more cost usage on irrigation equipments .Also based on obtained results, the most use of labor related to irrigation, so it is estimatable the existence of positive correlation between labor and mechanization index.\r\nAlso in continuation similar previous expression by use of introduced variables in table (3) in estimated Kub-Doglass production function for producers. The results of this estimation has been came in table (4). Comparison of table (3) and table (4) specify that there are high conformity between correlation coefficient and regression analysis coefficient, in both analysis, mechanization and seed index have positive and significant effect on production level or yield. Furthermore their coefficient is closed together. Also in both table observed that water and labor variables coefficient have positive and negative effect on production respectively, that they have low statistical importance \r\nAs you see in table, mechanization variable have positive and significant effect on producer production. So increment in this index meaning an increase in index input use. By 10 % increase in above index about 1.3% will add to crop yield. Among another variable the seed input will have the highest help to production. If we increase 10 present in seed amount, the production will increase more than 4.9%. The effect water inputs have no statistic importance t00.Also labor have negative effect on producing but its effect have no statistics importance.\r\nPlace illusive variable took into consideration similar previous expression. According to this, it could to say that there is important difference between two zone view points of production condition and producing condition is more favorable. It is necessary to say that this variable can show the effect of specific effective condition that there are not investigatable by another variable. In this expression based on high correlation between cultivated area and yield for solving problem of variance heterogeneous , used from square variable of cultivated area. After using the mentioned variable the theory of variance heterogeneous was not accepted.\r\nAccording to Reset Ramsy test the theory of Torsh expression were not accepted that resulting from main variable deleting. Also standard test showed that trouble sentences have normal distribution at 95% safety level. \r\nBy use of explainational variable could be able to chase about 56% of changes in production variable. F factor confirms the significance expressed pattern at 1% level too. Final profiting of seed input that have significant effect on production was obtained equal with 183.This means that applying of one additional unit of seed input can be able to add 183kg to produce crop.\r\nIn this chapter the results of Singh index use (2006) has been brought. Some of previous parts, first relation between variables by use of piedr.bf88@yahoo.comrson correlation coefficient was investigated (Table 5). Then the effect of index on production was evaluated by use of kub-Doglass production function. As you see in the table (5), the mechanization index have positive and significant effect, by producing. Chemical fertilizer and seed that in previous pattern used as partial of mechanization index in this pattern have been shown positive and significant correlation with production. Mechanization index have positive and significant correlation just with poison input. Also it has been appeared a positive but no significant correlation between mechanization and use of chemical fertilizer. \r\nRelation between seed correlation by fertilizer and poison inputs is positive and significant.\r\nAt the end of portion the effect of mechanization index on canola production has been evaluated by production function use. The result of this evaluation has been presented in Table 6 view point of significance and direction the relation between variables and yield variables, the results of two analyses of correlation and production have conformity with each other. But view point of size about of mechanization index variable there are different between two analysis. According to correlation analysis, the changes of yield and mechanization index variables have 43% correlation approximately while regression has been evaluated analysis the aid of this variable about 69 percent.\r\n \r\n\r\nIn recent pattern it has taken profit from production function that in which they were cost of machinery use to total machinery and labor cost index ratio. Obviously help of used expiation variable have been increased. Mechanization index in this expression has been shown high effect contrary to previous expression.\r\n In this manner by mentioned index increment about 10%, the production rater per unit will increase about 6.9%. About this high effect could be say in previous expression the labor showed the negative effect on production. While in pattern index, labor variable is used under fraction and in other words increment in this index is along with decrease in labor usage.\r\nOn the other hand correlation coefficient between adverse labor and yield production ratio was obtained positive, thus recent index showed high contribution as mechanization variable explainer .chemical fertilizer presented high contribution too. Whereas following 10% increment in use of this input, the produced crop rate will increase more than 6.7 percent. Similar increment in used seed rat would be increasing the production more than 4.6 percent too.\r\nThe water input in contrary to it had shown positive effect direction too, but its effect have no statistic importance. Also place illusive variable in contrary to previous expression, didn\'t show significant effect .In this expression applied explanatory variables are capable to explain more than 71 percent of production variations. F factor confirm signification of total pattern in 99% safety level too. Total profiting of pattern significant variables including seed and chemical fertilizer were obtained equal to 171 and 5.23 respectively, that mean of following 1 unit (kg) increment in seed and chemical fertilizer inputs, the crop rate will increase 171 and 5.23 kg respectively.\r\n','S. Bidarigh* (2014) The effect of mechanization level on canola production in south of Iran. Biological Forum – An International Journal 6(2): 138-145\r\n'),(4558,'120','Studies on Induced Mutations in Onion: Frequency and Spectrum\r\n of Chlorophyll mutations\r\n','Sushama A. Kirtane','24 KIRTANE SUSHAMA.pdf','',1,'The seeds of onion (Allium cepa L) var. N-2-4-1 were treated with different doses/concentrations of gamma radiation and sodium azide, alone and in combinations. Mutagenic treatments resulted in induction of four types of chlorophyll mutants like striata, chlorina, xantha and albina in M2 generation. Among all the treatments, combination treatments were more effective to induce chlorophyll mutations. In comparison with physical and chemical mutagens, gamma radiation was more effective than the sodium azide. Among four types of chlorophyll mutants, albina types of chlorophyll mutants were highest in percentage while striata type of chlorophyll mutants was very low in percentage.','Onion, Sodium azide, gamma radiation, combination treatments, chlorophyll mutants','The seeds of onion (Allium cepa L) var. N-2-4-1 were treated with different doses/concentrations of gamma radiation and sodium azide, alone and in combinations. Mutagenic treatments resulted in induction of four types of chlorophyll mutants like striata, chlorina, xantha and albina in M2 generation. Among all the treatments, combination treatments were more effective to induce chlorophyll mutations. In comparison with physical and chemical mutagens, gamma radiation was more effective than the sodium azide. Among four types of chlorophyll mutants, albina types of chlorophyll mutants were highest in percentage while striata type of chlorophyll mutants was very low in percentage. ','Onion (Allium cepa L) is economically important vegetable, widely used in all parts of the world. It is a source of foreign currency for the country. In onion, yield is inversely proportional to the Total Soluble Solids (McCollum 1968) and 40-100% storage losses within 6-months (Musa et al., 1973). Induced mutations are known to be useful to solve specific problems in crop and it is also helpful to break undesirable linkage between two characters. Hence, the present investigation was aimed solve these speific problems with the help of induced mutations.\r\nIn India, the research work on induced mutations in onion is very scanty. The role of induced mutations in improvement of onion have been confirmed (Kataria and Singh 1989). Four mutant varieties namely Compas, Brunette, KIK-11 and KIK-13 were released for the cultivation in Netherlands and Russia (Maluszynski et al 2000). The improved characters are earliness, stiffness and yield. Present research paper deals with the studies on induced chlorophyll mutations by gamma radiation and sodium azide, alone and in combinations. \r\nSince the pioneering work of Stadler (1928), chlorophyll mutations have been used to estimate the frequencies of induced mutations. Chlorophyll mutations are important parameter, which are used to estimate the effectiveness of the mutagens. It is also the indication of factor mutations. \r\nMATERIALS AND METHODS\r\nThe seeds of onion var. N-2-4-1 obtained from National Research Center for Onion and Garlic, Rajgurunagar, Dist. Pune were treated with sodium azide (0.1, 0.3, 0.5 & 0.7%) and gamma radiation (2,4,6,8,10 &12kR). For combination treatments dry seeds were firstly exposed to different doses of gamma radiation and then presoaked seeds were treated with different concentrations of sodium azide. Seeds were immediately sown in experimental field of NRC, Onion and Garlic, Rajgurunagar, Dist. Pune. After seedling transplantation, bulbs were harvested. Randomly selected bulbs from each treatment and control were used for seed production. Each plant was bagged to avoid cross-pollination. Umbel stalks were shaken for each and every day manually for artificial pollination. Seeds were harvested separately from each plant, stored in paper bags and used for M2 generation.\r\nScoring of chlorophyll mutations: Collected seeds were sown to rise M2 generation and the population was screened keenly for different types of chlorophylls mutations. The frequency and the spectrum of mutations were calculated. The identification and classification procedure for chlorophyll mutations was followed (Gustafson 1940). The frequency of chlorophyll mutations was classified according to Gual (1960) i. e. Number of mutants/100 M2 plants.\r\nRESULTS AND DISCUSSION\r\nChlorophyll mutations in M2 generation had been proved to be the most dependable indices for evaluating the genetic effects of mutagenic treatments. (Gustafson and Von-Wettstein, 1956). \r\nIn present investigation, the four different type’s viz. striata, chlorina, xantha and albina of chlorophyll mutations were observed. The frequency of total chlorophyll mutants varied for single as well as combined mutagenic treatments of gamma radiation and sodium azide. \r\n \r\n\r\nThe results on chloroplyll mutations induced by various chemical and physical mutagens, alone and in combinaton, were recorded by various workers (Mahamune and Kothekar 2012, Girija and Dhanavel 2013, Ramezani and More 2014). \r\nFor the single mutagenic treatment of sodium azide, the percentage of total chlorophyll mutations increased as concentrations of sodium azide increases. The percent chlorophyll mutations in sodium azide were ranges from 2.81% to 5.75%. The average frequency was 4.46%. Among all the total chlorophyll mutations, the higher percentage (3.59%) was showed by striata type of chlorophyll mutation in 0.7% sodium azide treatment. While chlorina type of mutation was 3.26% at 0.5% sodium azide. Overall, the xantha and albina showed very low percentage of total chlorophyll mutation as compared to striata and chlorina. The results on the induction of chlorophyll mutations due to sodium azide was reported (Makeen et al 2013 and Lal et al., 2009) in black gram. \r\nDue to the gamma radiation dose treatments, the highest percentage of chlorophyll mutations was 27.22%, which was higher than sodium azide. The highest chlorophyll mutations were in 12kR dose treatment. \r\nThe values of chlorophyll mutations were ranging from 4.66% to 27.22%. The average frequency was 17.24. Among all types of chlorophyll mutations, xantha and albina types of mutants showed higher percentage (11.38 and 5.94 respectively) followed by chlorina (5.44) and striata (4.45). Chlorophyll mutations induced by gamma radiation was reported (Girija and Dhanavel 2013 in Cowpea and Mishra et al 2013 in green gram). In present investigation, due to gamma irradiation dose treatments, xantha mutants were obtained in maximum percentage followed by albina, chlorina and striata. \r\nIn present investigation, it was noted that gamma radiation was effective than sodium azide for the induction of chlorophyll mutations. This was supported by Warghat et al., (2011).\r\nThe combined treatments were showed wide range of total percentage of chlorophyll mutations. The range varied from 9.53% to 32.71% while average frequency was 19.44. Highest chlorophyll mutations were in 6kR + 0.5% SA treatment (32.71%). There was no linear increase in the percentage of total chlorophyll mutations. But if gamma radiation dose combined with different concentrations of sodium azide, as the concentration of sodium azide increases, total chlorophyll percentage was increases. The values were 15.67%, 16.56%, 32.71%, and 29.78% at the treatments such as 2+0.5 SA, 4+0.5 SA, 6+0.5 SA and 8+0.5 SA. \r\nInduced chlorophyll mutations due to combination treatments of mutagens were reported by various workers (Yadav et al., 2000 in Indian mustard, Khan and Tak 2000 in black gram , Wani and Anis 2004 in gram, Lal et al., 2009) in black gram. \r\nIn present investigation, the chlorophyll mutations were increased up to 6kR+0.5% SA and it declined further. This indicates the saturation effects of the higher treatments. Similar results were reported by Sreekantaradhyay and Madhavamenon (1979) in Sorghum. Nilan and Konzak (1961) have also reported the diversity of chlorophyll mutations to intergenic effects of radiation. \r\nRegarding the spectrum of chlorophyll mutations due to the combined treatments, albina were recorded in higher while striata type of chlorophyll mutants were noted in very low percentage. Reddi and Rao (1988) supported the above trend in onion. \r\nThe overall trend of treatments was recorded in present investigation was as follows - Combined treatments > Gamma radiation > Sodium azide. These results revealed that combination treatments were more effective than the single treatment, which was in conformity with Wani and Anis (2004), Makeen et al (2013) and Ramezani and More (2014). \r\n','Sushama A. Kirtane (2014). Studies on Induced Mutations in Onion: Frequency and Spectrum of Chlorophyll mutations. Biological Forum – An International Journal 6(2): 146-149.\r\n'),(4559,'120','First report of Alternaria alternata on Chenopodium album L.\r\n from India\r\n','Dr. Ramanuj Patel*, Deepika Patel and A.K. Pandey','25 DR RAMANUJ PATEL.pdf','',1,'During surveys of soybean fields in Madhya Pradesh, leaf blight on Chenopodium album, resulting in 10-60% weed mortality, was observed. The disease appeared in the middle of February and remained throughout the summer. Symptoms of the disease started with brown necrotic spots which developed concentric rings. These spots then coalesced to form large irregular blotches. Infected leaves wilted, died and dropped off quickly. The present paper deal with new record of Alternaria alternata on Chenopodium album L. from India. ','New host, Alternaria alternate Chenopodium album L.','During surveys of soybean fields in Madhya Pradesh, leaf blight on Chenopodium album, resulting in 10-60% weed mortality, was observed. The disease appeared in the middle of February and remained throughout the summer. Symptoms of the disease started with brown necrotic spots which developed concentric rings. These spots then coalesced to form large irregular blotches. Infected leaves wilted, died and dropped off quickly. The present paper deal with new record of Alternaria alternata on Chenopodium album L. from India. ','Chenopodium album L. is annual weed of cultivated fields, especially on rich soils and old manure heaps (Clapham 1962; Grieve 1984) belonging to family Chenopodiaceae. It is often one of the first weeds to appear on newly cultivated soils (Stuart, 1979). The species was introduced from Europe (Densmore et al., 2001; Parker 1990). It is considered to be a very serious weed in many parts of the world (Randall, 2003). In India, C. album is the most common and problematic weed in the wheat; and gram fields (Holm et al., 1977; Jain et al., 1998). \r\nDuring surveys of soybean fields of Jabalpur Madhya Pradesh, India, leaf blight on Chenopodium album caused by Alternaria alternata showing, 10-60% mortality due to this disease in different soybean crops fields was observed (Fig. 1). The disease starts to appear in the middle of February and remains throughout summer. Mortality rate is high in the rainy season. A symptom of this disease starts with brown necrotic spots which develop concentric rings. These spots then coalesce to form large irregular blotches. Infected leaves wilt, die and drop off quickly. \r\nIsolated from diseased plants, grows rapidly and the colony size reaches a diameter of 3 to 6 cm following incubation at 25°C for 7 days on potato dextrose agar (Fig. 2). The colony surface is grayish white at the beginning, which later darkens and becomes greenish black or olive brown with a light border. The fungus produces abundant branched, septate, brownish mycelium; conidiophores simple, olive-brown, septate, variable in length with terminal conidia, which are solitary or in short chains (Fig. 3). Conidia mostly obligate to obpyriform with a short conical or cylindrical apical beak not exceeding one third of the conidial length, or beakless, smooth walled or verruculose, slightly constricted with 3-8 transverse septa, the lower part each portion has one or two longitudinal septa (Fig. 4). The identification of the fungus on the basis of morphological characters was confirmed by the fungal Germplazm Culture collection center at Jabalpur Madhya Pradesh. For pathogencity tests plastic pots of 7 cm diameter and 10 cm deep were filled with sandy loam soil collected from a cultivated field of Madhya Pradesh University, Jabalpur. Plants of C. album at 10-12 leaf stage were transplanted from field into the pots. After transplantation, pots were kept in a wire netting house for 7 days for the establishment of plants and were irrigated with tap water, when required. After the establishment of plants, leaves were sprayed with A. alternate spore suspension of 1×109 conidia per ml and incubated at 30 ± 1°C. Plants were covered with plastic bags to maintain 100% humidity for 24 hours then bags were removed and plants were kept under observation for 21 days. Control plants were sprayed with sterile distills water. The pathogen city tests were repeated three times. The first lesion appeared after a period of 15 days. The pathogen was consistently re-isolated from the lesions. The pathogen incites leaf spot diseases. The diseased initially characterized by appearance of several small, circular, light brown spots on any part of the leaf, the spot enlarged rapidly and become dark brown involve large portion of the leaf. This fungus responsible for 65-70% damage to leaves of the weed. \r\nFungus isolated from living leaves of Chenopodium album. Soybean crop field, of Jabalpur, 8 July 2008, FGCC #177, HDBJ-RN-264, Leg. R. N. Patel, Department of Biological sciences Rani Durgawati. University Jabalpur (M.P.) India. \r\nA survey of the literature (Bilgrami, et al., 1979, 1981 and Jamaluddin et al., 2004) reported this species on various plant host (Eichhornia crassipes Parthenium hysterophorus , Achyrenthus aspera L.,) but, not on Chenopodium album. However, its new host record from India and elsewhere. \r\n','Dr. Ramanuj Patel*, Deepika Patel and A.K. Pandey (2014). First report of Alternaria alternata on Chenopodium album L. from India.Biological Forum – An International Journal 6(2): 150-152. \r\n'),(4560,'120','Project Management Templates, an Appropriate Solution for today’s Complex Project Management and World Life','Amir Sadeghi* and Mohammad Sharafi','26 AMIR SEDIGHAI & MOHAMMAD SHARAFI.pdf','',1,'Nowadays projects have been too long and complicated. Around the world, our awareness and knowledge of urgent needs for improving the deliverance of defensive, critical, often large and long term projects, which cost several billion dollars, is crucial. Researches show that the traditional linear project management techniques and tools, that are still essential, are not often sufficient for the management of projects of the 21st century. Therefore, a new method for simplifying the management of such projects is in progress, which is the use of project management templates. Project management templates are used as a framework for the management of complex projects. In this paper, the prepared project management templates have been introduced and samples were provided for examination.','Complex project management, project management templates, project management process','Researches show that traditional linear project management techniques and tools, that are still essential, are not often sufficient for the management of projects of the 21st century. Therefore, a new method for simplifying the management of such projects is in progress, which is the use of project management templates. In this paper project management templates and their application method and some examples were provided.\r\n \r\n\r\nAs it turns out, this tool is an appropriate tool for managing today\'s complex projects. Therefore implementation of such templates in project management of Iranian companies is very practical and useful. In future studies, a sample of these templates can be used in the public and private organizations of Iran and by a variety of tools, including questionnaires and success of this type of templates can be examined over a period of time.\r\n','INTRODUCTION\r\nTraditional linear project management techniques and tools, that are still essential, are not often sufficient for the management of projects of the 21st century. At the same time it is obvious that the current workforce of project managers, business analysts and engineers and architects have a limited capacity to respond to challenges of various and sometimes big projects. In the 21st century, the business process has become complex, in more close relationship, dependent and interrelated than ever before, in addition, the business today denies the traditional management structures for the creation of complex organization of strategic suppliers, customer network, the fleet working with political groups, regulatory bodies and even competitors. Through this alliance, the organizations are dealing with the pressure of unprecedented changes, global competition, and compression of time of market, rapid technological changes and of course the increase of the complexity.\r\nPROBLEM STATEMENT\r\n\"Project management is the skills, tools and management processes that are necessary for successful completion of a project.\"Project management includes the following items:\r\n- A set of skills. Knowledge, skills and professional experience are necessary to reduce the risk level in a project and thus enhance its chances for success.\r\n- A set of tools. Varieties of tools are used by project managers to increase their chances of success. Examples include templates of document, record of statistics, scheduling software, modeling software, audit checklist and review forms.\r\n- A set of processes. Different management techniques and processes are needed to monitor and control the time, cost, quality and scope of the project. Examples include time management, cost management, quality management, change management and problem management [1].\r\nPROJECT LIFE CYCLE\r\nThe following figure shows a brief sketch of the life cycle of the project.\r\nThe project life cycle consists of four phases or stages:\r\nA. Project Initiation\r\nStarting phase is the first phase of the project. In this phase, a commercial (business) problem (or opportunity) is recognized and defined as a commercial case that offers a variety of strategic options. Then the feasibility study is conducted to examine the possibility of any alternative solution related to the commercial issue and a final proposed solution is presented [1,2].\r\nWhen the proposed solution was confirmed, a project is initiated to implement the approved strategy.\"Terms of reference\" is completed, which proposes the objectives, scope and structure of the new project, and a project manager is appointed. Project manager begins recruiting the project team and establishes a project office environment. Then he tries to get permission to go into the detailed planning phase.\r\nB. Project Planning\r\n When the project scope is defined in terms of reference, the project will enter a phase of detailed planning. This issue requires the creation of the following items:\r\n- Project plan (with a brief sketch of activities, tasks, dependencies and timelines).\r\n- Resources plan (listing of work force, equipment and materials needed).\r\n- Financial plan (identifying costs of workforce, equipment and materials).\r\n- The quality plan (presenting qualitative objectives, insurance and guarantee and controlling measures).\r\n- Risk plan (highlighting the potential risks and the measures to be undertaken to reduce the risk).\r\n- Admissions plan (listing the criteria that must be considered to obtain customer acceptance).\r\n- Communication plan (list of needed information to inform shareholders).\r\n- Logistics plan (identification of products that must be acquired from foreign suppliers).\r\nC. Project Execution\r\nThis phase involves the implementation of the activities and the works listed in the program of the project. While the tasks and activities are carried out, a set of managerial processes are performed to monitor and control the deliverable items of the project. This includes identification of changes, risks and problems, assessment of the quality of deliverables and measurement of items which have been produced against the criteria for acceptance. When all deliverables were produced and the customer accepted the final solution, the project is ready for closure [3].\r\nD. Project Closure\r\nProject closure is the clearance of final items to customer, delivery of project documentation, termination of the contracts of suppliers, the release of project resources and establishing communication with all stakeholders about the closure of the project. The last remaining step that must be done is to examine after implementation to determine the overall success of the project and list all of the lessons that we have learned for future projects.\r\nTherefore the most common project management processes that are done in most projects are as follows:\r\nThe initial processes: The processes that assist the project in order to begin the next phase.\r\nPlanning processes: These processes are of two types:\r\nThe main processes: Main processes are processes that due to dependence on each other are done in a certain order in most of the projects. These processes include:\r\nProject scope planning------Project scope definition------Definition of project activities\r\nSequencing activities------Estimation of the duration of activities-----Development of scheduling\r\nResource planning------Estimation of costs------Budgeting the costs-----Development of project plan\r\nFacilitating processes: Facilitating processes are processes that are done according to needs and in order to facilitate the process of the project. These processes include:\r\nQuality planning-------Organizational planning-----Communication planning\r\nRisk detection------Risk measurement-----Developing response to risk-----Logistics planning\r\nApplications planning \r\nExecutive processes: Executive processes like the planning processes include two types of processes:\r\nThe main processes----------Implementation of the project--------Facilitating processes\r\nDetermination and the acceptance of the project scope--------Quality assurance\r\nDevelopment of project team------Distribution of information-------Selection of resources\r\nAdministration of contracts.\r\nControlling processes: These processes frequently control and measure implementation of the project. Reorganization of project plan is possible through appropriate repetition of planning processes. Controlling processes like the planning processes are divided into two categories:\r\n \r\n\r\n\r\n Sadeghi and Sharafi 155\r\n \r\nThe main processes:\r\nTotal control of the changes:\r\nPreparing reports about the performance:\r\nFacilitating processes---Controlling the project scope----Controlling the project schedule---Controlling the project costs---Controlling the quality---Controlling the risk response---Closure processes\r\nThese processes lead to the delivery and appropriate and acceptable completion of projects. And include:\r\nCompletion of implementation of the project\r\nAn example of a project management template\r\nThe following example is a short section from the template of the “learned lessons “in the final phase of the project that the description of this template and its executive example is provided [4,5].\r\n“The template of the learned lessons”\r\nThe record of “learned lesson “is an integral part of any project which meets several goals. While the completion of the official document of “learned lesson “is completed during the completion process, the recording of the learned lessons should occur throughout the project lifecycle in order to ensure that all information is timely and accurately documented. The document of learned lessons is used as a valuable tool by other project managers in an organization in which similar projects are allocated to them. This document should not only explain what was wrong during a project and recommendations for avoiding similar incidents in the future, but it should also explain what has gone well and how similar projects can benefit from this information. This document should contact with the administrator of the project and the Project Management Office (PMO) in order to enter the organization\'s assets and archives as part of the learned lessons of database. If the organization does not have a PMO, formal communication tools of learned lessons should be used to ensure that all project managers are included.\r\nAn example: The purpose of the document of “learned lessons “for new construction projects (NBC) is to record learned lessons of the project in an official document to be used by other project managers in similar projects in the future. This document can be used as a part of new project planning for similar projects in order to identify what problems have occurred and how to manage these problems and how is it possible to avoid such problems in the future. Moreover, this document explains in details what is good about the progress of the project and why it has progressed well, so that other project managers would be able to capitalize on these works. Project managers may also use this document to determine who the members of the project team are and in order to solicit feedback for future planning of their projects. This document will be formally communicated to the organization and will be part of the organization\'s assets and archives.\r\nApproach and method of the learned lessons\r\nThe method of the learned lessons explains that how the document would be created, what would it contain and how the lessons would be classified. It is important to cover the learned lessons in the early stages of project planning. The reason is that methodology should be established with a set of appropriate tools to get these lessons during the project lifecycle. Project journal is an example of a tool to record these lessons. If until the end of the project no attempt is made for the learned lessons, it is likely that many lessons and details can be removed from the document.\r\nThe concept of learned lessons document should be determined ahead of time, they must be sufficiently explained to be of value for future use and concepts should be consistent with other learned lessons documents or organizational standards. The classification of the learned lessons is also taken into account. Many organizations classify lessons through project lifecycle phase or by the knowledge in which the lessons are applied. An example: The learned lessons of NBC project are collected through the inputs of project journal during the project lifecycle. Also the learned lessons are collected from the realized and unrealized risks in project risk register and, if necessary, through interviews with project team members and other investors. Lessons learned from this project are used as a reference for future projects and include sufficient detail levels, so that other project managers may have enough information about it which helps them to base their project planning. Lessons learned in this document are grouped by knowledge areas of the project. These areas of knowledge include the following items: logistics management, risk management, integrated management, quality management, time management, cost management, landscape management, human resource management and communications management. Note that: Some areas of knowledge may not include learned lessons if none of them are documented throughout the project lifecycle [5].\r\n','Amir Sadeghi* and Mohammad Sharafi (2014). Project Management Templates, an Appropriate Solution for today’s Complex Project Management and World Life. Biological Forum – An International Journal 6(2): 153-156.'),(4561,'120','Occupational Characteristics of Physical Education Teachers and its Relationship to Empowerment','Hamid Amini, Mohsen Rahmanian, Marziye Moradi, Mahdi Sedaghat, Nader Afravi and Moslem Bay\r\n','29 HAMID AMINI.pdf','',1,'The present study has been established and implemented in order to identify occupational characteristics of physical education teachers and its relationship to empowerment of teachers in the city of Karaj. The type of study is a descriptive study and the statistical population of this study is consisted of all headmasters and teachers of the mentioned high schools, that 292 of them were selected as sample by Cochran\'s sample size calculation formula and multi-stage random sampling. Considering the research objectives, for data collection, empowerment questionnaire of Whetten and Cameron and researcher made questionnaire of occupational characteristics were used. Content and face validity of the instrument was approved on the basis of the opinions of specialists and experts and its reliability was calculated by Cronbach\'s alpha coefficient 0/92 for empowerment questionnaire and 0/73 for occupational characteristics questionnaire. Data were analyzed by using the methods of descriptive and inferential statistics. \r\nThe results showed that: 1- On the basis of factor analysis, the occupational characteristics mentioned in the Hackman and Oldham model can be reduced to two factors. 2- Respondents evaluated the occupational characteristics of teaching occupation, which was presented in the mentioned model, in a relatively high level. 3- There are significant differences between the opinions of headmasters and teachers about the characteristics of teaching occupation. 4- The examined teachers evaluated their psychological empowerment at a high level and, finally, there is a significant positive relationship between characteristics of teaching occupation and psychological empowerment of teachers.\r\n','occupational characteristics, empowerment, job design, teachers','The present study has been established and implemented in order to study and identify occupational characteristics of teaching profession of physical education teachers in Karaj on the basis of Hackman and Oldham model and to determine its relationship to empowerment. Analysis of data of research has led to the following results which are significant with at least 95% of confidence level and they are generalizable to the statistical population.\r\n1. Factor analysis results indicate that the job characteristics proposed in the model of Hackman and Oldham are reducible into two factors of job and skill variety, that each has determined about 25 and 9 percent of the total variance. This indicates that the prepared scale measures the structure or conception of job characteristics in a desirable way and also the significant and high correlation between the variables of job characteristics with the overall score of scale indicate the internal consistency and therefore the validity of the structure of the scale. In the same study, Goudarzi 1381 through factor analysis has identified seven factors of empowerment in the municipalities of provinces of Lorestan and Markazi which include: a sense of competence, a sense of meaningfulness, a sense of being effective, a sense of independence, a sense of trust, clarification and reconstruction of regulations, and enhancement of organizational learning. As is known, the above results are not consistent with the results of this study. \r\n2. The headmasters and teachers of the city of Karaj have evaluated the job characteristics proposed in Hackman and Oldham\'s model for teaching profession as relatively high. This means that from the perspective of the respondents the physical education teachers\' job possess lot of skill variety, identity, significance, independent functioning and feedback, however, there are significant differences between the views of these two groups, in a way that headmasters were somehow teachers and still they are, so they have had more positive judgments about teaching profession characteristics. Nature of teaching, make this result justifiable that from long ago in Iranian culture the teaching profession was considered as an important occupation which had social status, a job that at the heart of it there is a freedom of action and allows the teachers to be aware of the results of their own works.\r\n3. The studied physical education teachers have evaluated their cognitive abilities at a high level, that is, they had sense of competence, a sense of meaningfulness, a sense of being effective, a sense of self-autonomy and feeling of confidence to a large extent. This finding also was predictable given the nature of teaching. Teaching is in a way that enhances feelings of worthiness, dignity, effectiveness and autonomy in individuals. These findings are consistent with the results of the research of Vidal (2007), who examined efficient production, employee empowerment and job satisfaction. In his study the empowerment variables were also approved with 95% confidence level.\r\n4. Research findings showed that, in general, or with the separation of the characteristics and dimensions, there is positive and significant relationship between teaching profession characteristics and psychological empowerment of teachers. These findings suggest that whatever characteristics of the teaching profession are at higher levels, teachers are feeling more empowered. These findings are consistent with the results of Gong et al., (1997) who concluded that the different characteristics of the job can predict different components of empowerment. Kraimer, Seibert and Leiden (1999), in a study concluded that job characteristics including: significance, autonomy and feedback have different relationship with the aspects of psychological empowerment including: meaningfulness, competence, autonomy, and the effectiveness. Also Agero (2006) concluded that there is a positive and significant relationship between job design, empowerment and organizational commitment.\r\nIn general, given the above mentioned results, the following points are noteworthy:\r\nAccording to the results of this study, it is recommended that relevant authorities make every effort to select and implement programs to improve \r\ncharacteristics of educational staffs\' job. It is suggested to review and validate the issue in different groups. It is recommended to use other methods such as observation and interviews to collect information.\r\n','During the recent decades, the educational institutions have paid more attention to human resource management. The issues of job design and empowerment have found a special position in new studies of this branch of management and are among the factors that have been encountered with a special interest in educational organizations, because in this kind of organizations the subjects that are related to human factors, which are main principle and technical core of this institutions, are welcomed. Educational organizations of the twenty-first century, in addition to specialized capabilities, need the intellectual power and creativity of teachers. In these circumstances, not only the hierarchy of command would not be appropriate, but also employees must show their own initiatives and take action to solve problems quickly and participate in the processes of planning, decision making, and setting of the goals and more power and authority be delegated to them. Establishing an appropriate the link between occupation and the abilities of the employee in the current environment, is essential. Nowadays, less attention is made towards attracting obedience of members through compulsion and there are more tendencies towards the inner commitment and the increasing of union in organizations. All of these factors had increased the urgency and importance of the process of empowerment in organizations (Scott and Jaffe 1375). The familiarity of the people involved in the field of human resource management with the factors affecting empowerment of employees, for making appropriate decisions and proper operations plans, especially in educational institutions, justifies the necessity and importance of the present study. Since empowerment is associated with many organizational factors, occupational characteristics are one of these factors. The more recognition of factors related to these features can be effectively helpful in the course of empowerment. By continuous analysis of jobs and the development of efficient and effective ways of doing things, we can take more practical steps implementation of empowerment. \r\nExperts believe that whatever a profession is richer in terms of features, employees feel better about their job and work with more motivation (Abbas Poor, 1382). The main asset of Education is its teachers who bring added value to the community through their knowledge, skills and motivation. Today, schools that enjoy having such an asset, have competitive advantage among schools, because in schools competitive advantage is a function of skill, creativity, independent functioning and capabilities of teachers. Meanwhile, one of the main challenges of organizations in general and educational institutions in particular is an inefficient use of intellectual resources, mental ability and potential capacities of this human capital. However, educational institutions in order to achieve higher effectiveness and productivity have no choice but to provide the necessary conditions for the optimal use of these assets. Among the techniques that management experts recommend to accomplish this goal is the job design (improvement of occupational characteristics) and empowerment of employees. Empowerment in educational institutions is more important than other organizations, Education is an inclusive, dynamic, and influencing institution which effects on the behavior and overt and covert moral, political, economic, religious, legal, social and cultural norms of individuals, the nature of its activities and objectives are to enhance the morale of creativity, prosperity and development of talents, raising the level of public awareness, expertise, and determination of strategies to achieve excellence, development, prosperity and growth, but studies conducted in the country show that at present, human resource management systems of the Ministry of Education lack a framework for empowerment of its employees. Considering what was mentioned before, we can say that teaching, like any other profession possesses some features that can influence the enhancement of the capabilities, performance and motivation of teachers. But the problem is that in our studied population, what are these features? Do they have an effect on teachers\' empowerment?\r\nAccordingly, the present study has been established and implemented in order to identify occupational characteristics of physical education teachers and its relationship to empowerment of teachers. Hackman and Oldham\'s job characteristics model and empowerment model of Whetten and Cameron form the theoretical framework of this study. Job characteristics model contains five components of skill, job identity, job significance, autonomy and feedback and the empowerment model contains the five components of competency, a sense of being significant, a sense being \r\n\r\nteachers and psychological capability of teachers. In this regard we attempt to find the appropriate answers to the following questions:\r\n1. What are the main components of characteristics of the of physical education teachers\' job on the basis of Hackman and Oldham model?\r\n2. At which level the headmasters and teachers of the city of Karaj have evaluated the characteristics of the physical education teachers\' job?\r\n3. Is there any significance difference between the perspectives of the headmasters and teachers of the city of Karaj regarding the characteristics of the physical education teachers\' job?\r\n4. At what level are physical education teachers in the city of Karaj, in terms of ability?\r\n5. Is there any significance difference between the physical education teachers\' job characteristics and psychological empowerment of teachers in Karaj?\r\nA. Research and theoretical principles \r\nAccording to Hackman and Seattle, job design is the application of changes in specific jobs or continuous set of occupations to enhance the quality and productivity of employees during operation (Abbas pour, 1382), these changes can include items such as: specialization of jobs, job enlargement, job enrichment, job rotation, socio-technical systems design, providing a conditions for creating positive working motivation and personal development. In the field of design and determination of characteristics of the job, several studies have been conducted. Perhaps the first person, who examined this issue consistently was Taylor, Taylor\'s emphasis was on finding scientific ways of doing things, standardization and specialization of jobs. As it is clear, this view, which is known as the mechanistic approach and have neglected sociological and psychological aspects of individuals in the organizations (Alagheband, 1381), that its theory under the title of motivation hygiene has been the basis for job enrichment, believes that managers can create motivation in the occupation of individuals by application of motivational factors,( Kreitner and Kinicki 2007), attitudes of job characteristics that has a motivational approach to job is the result of the studies of Turner and Lawrence (1965), Hackman and Lawler (1971). These researchers focused their research on the motivational characteristics of job and considered the position of individual differences in employees\' response to a job (Kirmakel and Breslin, 2008). According to Turner and Lawrence (1965), complex and challenging jobs are more attractive for employees who are attractive. \r\n \r\n\r\nThey proposed six characteristics for the job which are related to the job satisfaction of employees. These features include: diversity, responsibility, independence, knowledge and skills, and necessary social connections (Robbins 2003). Hackman and Lawler (1971) conducted their researches on the basis of the results of Turner and Lawrence studies and divided the six mentioned characteristics into two groups. They named the first four dimensions as the main dimensions. They considered the two dimensions, which were related to communication, as social dimension of job that do not preciously interfere in performing of tasks. Hackman and Oldham (1975) extensively studied the results of previous researches. The results of their studies was the model of job characteristics, which proposed the five characteristics of skill, job identity, job significance, autonomy and feedback (Moorhead and Griffin, 1385), so an occupation is enriched that in terms of mentioned characteristics possess higher scores. According to this theory, these features affect the attitudes, behavior, and the work results of employee through the affecting employees\' psychological states (Abbas pour, 1382). Three important psychological states which are created in individuals under influenced of five mentioned characteristics are: sense of being meaningful, sense of responsibility and awareness of results. These states in their turn lead to more practical results such as more motivation, higher job satisfaction and higher effectiveness (Robbins, 2003). In addition, the improvement of job characteristics creates meaningful jobs that will reduce or eliminate employees\' self-alienation (Carroll, 2003). In general, when a job is redesigned to increase its reliability in terms of job characteristics, we predict that the motivation, satisfaction and performance of the operators of jobs will be improved (Ye et al, 2009). Kevin (2006) examined the impact of job characteristics and came to the conclusion that the five job characteristics reduce the occupational stress of the staff. Vidal (2007), in a study concluded that employees have relatively low satisfaction from the traditional forms of work and job characteristics are effective in job satisfaction. Debnath and Tandon (2007), in a study entitled as design of jobs for school training courses, to develop motivation of students on the basis of application of Hackman and Oldham\'s Job Characteristics Model, concluded that application of this model in the design of effective programs and provision of instructional strategies increases the motivation of students in the classroom and causes the achievement of the desired educational goals. Tousi (1381) concluded that the relation between the components of job characteristics and the degree of tendency to leave the job is significant and reversed. \r\nIn addition to mentioned psychological states, improvement of job characteristics may lead to an increased sense of psychological empowerment in the people who are themselves the result of the process of empowerment. Empowerment means strengthening which means to help people to improve their sense of confidence and overcome their sense of powerlessness or helplessness and the creation of the enthusiasm to work and to act on the basis of the intrinsic motivation to perform a task. Capable people, not only possess the ability to do some great things, but also their thoughts about themselves is different from what they have been before the empowerment (Whetten and Cameron 2005).\r\nIn terms of management, empowerment refers to the process through which managers help other employees to acquire the necessary power for making decisions in affairs related to them and their work (Cheng and Liu, 2008). In other words, psychological empowerment is manifested as motivational cognitive features through working in environment and reflections of the individual role of work (Wang and Li, 2009). The result of empowerment process is the creation of a sense of empowerment in individuals with recognizable and unique psychological characteristics. Conger & Kanungo 1988 have summarized these features into four components which include: sense of competence, a sense of meaningfulness, feeling of being effective and sense of self-autonomy (Wang and Li, 2009). Whetten and Cameron 2005 while confirming the above mentioned four dimensions also added the sense of confidence to it. Researches indicate that organizations gain profit by performing the empowerment process that increased job satisfaction of members, improvement of the quality of working life, improvement of the quality of goods and services, increase in organizational efficiency and preparation for competition, are among these benefits (Bowen and Lawler, 1992). Also the studies show that empowerment can increase motivation, strength and self-efficiency of the staff, because in the light of the achieved power they will be able to improve the effectiveness and creativity and select the way of doing things (Daft, 2001). Feizi Zangineh (1384) has concluded that there is significant relationship between empowerment of staff of the General Department of Culture and Islamic Guidance in Ardabil province with their performance. Various factors have effect in the increase of empowerment. Delegation of authority, participation, team building, and making the information available, development of skills, specifying the scope and objectives, modeling, support and gratitude, confidence and providing the possibility of freedom of action are among these factors (Whetten and Cameron 2005, Abdullah and Naveh Ibrahim 1386).\r\nMatthews and colleagues in a study found that the dynamic structural framework, control over workplace decisions and the fluidity of the flow of information sharing are positively related to psychological empowerment components and whatever the amount of these items are maximum, he level of psychological empowerment of employees will be higher. Soleimani (1386) concluded that motivation, job satisfaction, information technology, participation and training, respectively, affect the empowerment of human resources in Ministry of Cooperatives. Authorities consider the occupational enrichment and enhancement of job characteristics as one of the factors affecting empowerment (Mishra, 1994).\r\nFor example, several studies conducted in some companies have shown that delegating authority and freedom of action to employees to solve problems, not only increases customer satisfaction, but also dramatically increases the sense of empowerment in employees, also assigning identity to the job, creates the same feeling in the employees. In contrast, when people perform just one piece of work, they never see the final result of their works and become excluded from observations of its effect, and they become depressed lose their sense of empowerment (Whetten and Cameron 2005). In addition, several studies confirmed that there is a positive relationship between job characteristics and psychological empowerment of employees. Researches of Gong et al (1997), Kraimer, Seibert and Leiden (1999), Agero (2006), are examples of these researches.\r\nMETHODOLOGY\r\nThe present study is a descriptive correlational study and the data were collected through field studies. The statistical population of this study is consisted of all physical education teachers of Alborz province, that 300 (region one = 72, region two 71-person, region three 97 and region four 60) of them were selected as sample by Cochran\'s sample size calculation formula and multi-stage random sampling and the survey questionnaires were distributed among them and eventually 292 returned questionnaires were diagnosed as usable. Survey instruments included individual characteristics, job characteristics questionnaire and empowerment questionnaire.\r\nIndividual characteristics questionnaire: This questionnaire was research made and information such as age, gender, education and employment services of staff was obtained through it.\r\nOccupational Characteristics Questionnaire: This questionnaire was research made and variables of skill, job identity, job significance, autonomy and feedback were evaluated which consisted of 15 items and its scale was determined in terms of Osgood Semantic. \r\nDifferential Questionnaire. This questionnaire has been used frequently by various researchers in the country and its validity and reliability have been verified. Empowerment questionnaire of Whetten and Cameron measures the variables of sense of competence, sense of self-autonomy, a sense of being effective, a sense of being significance, and sense of confidence and consists of 20 items, that its scale has been determined on the basis of a five- point Likert-type scale. In this study, to determine the primary validity research questionnaires were distributed among 10 professors and experts of this field that the received proposals have been included in final edition and to determine the reliability of questionnaire a study guide was conducted on a sample of 30 and Cronbach\'s alpha coefficient was 0/73 for occupational characteristics questionnaire and 0/92 for empowerment questionnaire that with this value of the coefficient, the internal consistency of the questionnaire was approved. Considering the nature of the study, descriptive statistics were used to summarize and classify the raw data and in inferential statistics of data the univariate t-test with the measure of 5 was used to determine the significance of statistical findings related to the variables of job characteristics and psychological capabilities; independent t-test was used to determine the difference between the means of the two groups of teachers and headmasters, as well as Pearson\'s correlation coefficient was used to determine relationships between variables\r\nANALYSIS OF FINDINGS\r\nIn this section each of the research questions, are separately analyzed.\r\nFirst question: What are the main components of characteristics of teaching on the basis of Hackman and Oldham model?\r\nMeasures of job characteristics are reducible into two factors: the first factor is about 25/78% and the second factor is about 9/8% of the total variance and after the varimax rotation, the two mentioned factors were identified and finally it was determined that all of the item have factor loadings of 0.3 or higher on the first or the second factor. According to the data, with the exception of item 11 which has a factor loading of 0.3 and higher on the second factor, other items, i.e. 14 items have a factor loading of 0.3 and higher on the first factor. The first factor is called as the nature of the job and the second factor as skill variety. This indicates that all of the items have measured the structures or concepts of job characteristics and although Hackman and Oldham, in their researches, have identified five components for job characteristics but based on the findings of this study, these factors are only classifiable in two components\r\nSecond question: At which level the headmasters and teachers of the city of Karaj have evaluated the characteristics of teaching?\r\nFindings show that the obtained averages for all components and the total with the mean of 5/95 variable and job characteristics are higher than the average in range of 7 degrees. This means that the state of characteristics of teaching have been evaluated relatively high by the respondents. Therefore to test the significance of the findings univariate tests with criterion of 5 (expected average) was used. Considering that the calculated significance level (p =0/001) is smaller than p =0/05, the null hypothesis is rejected. \r\nThird question: Is there any significance difference between the perspectives of the headmasters and teachers of the city of Karaj regarding the characteristics of the teaching?\r\nThe headmasters with the average of 6/36 and teachers with the average of 5/88 confirmed the job characteristics proposed in Hackman and Oldham \r\n\r\nmodel for teaching profession and with 99% confidence we can say that there are significant differences between the opinions of headmasters and teachers about characteristics of teaching profession.\r\nFourth question: At what level are physical education teachers in the city of Karaj, in terms of ability?\r\nIn general averages obtained for all the components of capabilities and the total with the average of 4/3 and standard deviation is of 0/48 higher than average. This means that teachers in target population possess higher mental capabilities.\r\nFifth question: Is there any significance difference between the job characteristics and psychological empowerment of teachers in Karaj?\r\nFindings show that in general there is a significant relationship between teacher characteristics and psychological empowerment of teachers with r=0/48 and p<0/05. These findings suggest that whatever the characteristics of the teaching profession are at higher levels, teachers feel more empowered.\r\n','Hamid Amini, Mohsen Rahmanian, Marziye Moradi, Mahdi Sedaghat, Nader Afravi and Moslem Bay (2014). Occupational Characteristics of Physical Education Teachers and its Relationship to Empowerment. Biological Forum – An International Journal 6(2): 174-180.\r\n '),(4562,'120','Algal Flora of Some Selected Water Bodies of Delhi','Kritika Gupta and Pamposh ','30 KRITIKA GUPTA AND PAMPOSH.pdf','',1,'The freshwater algae show an ability to tolerate a wide range of environmental conditions. Under natural condition, they usually grow in the mixed community which may include many species and genera. The identification of freshwater algae from Delhi mostly belonging to Chlorophycean members is totally dependent on the physico-chemical characteristics of the water bodies at different time intervals. This communication deals with the dynamics of the freshwater algae from river, ponds and wetlands of some parts of Delhi such as Wazirabad, India Gate, Old Fort, Shanti Van, Campus of Guru Gobind Singh Indraprastha University at Dwarka, Okhla Bird Sanctuary and Sanjay Jheel. A total of about 18 algal genera, 8 belonging to Chlorophyceae, 5 belonging to Bacilorophyceae, 5 belonging to Cynophyceae were recorded. In Okhla Bird Sanctuary, Shanti Van and Dwarka the algal genera with Lyngyba sp., Anacystics sp., Tetraderon sp., Anabaena sp., Agmenellum sp., Navicula sp., and Nitzschia sp. recorded and it was noticed that the presence of this algae in huge amount indicates that the water of all these sites is polluted, as they are good indicator of pollution whereas at other four sites it was found to be less polluted because of the presence of Rhizoclonium sp., Oedogonium sp. and Pithophora sp. which are indicators of clean water.','Taxonomy, Chlorophycean, freshwater, algae.','Therefore from the above study it is concluded that the total phytoplankton is more in Okhla Bird Sanctuary and Chlorophyceae is dominant. It has been concluded that the water of Okhla Bird Sanctuary and Sanjay Jheel shows high dominance of Lyngbya sp. Chlorella sp., Navicula sp.,Nitzchilla and Agemencellum which indicates that this lakes posses high amount of organic waste and therefore the water of the lake is organically polluted. Whereas India gate and Old Fort show high dominance of Rhizoclonium, Pithophora, Ulothrix indicated that water is less polluted.','Algae, which are the diverse assemblages of chlorophyllous organisms, are found growing in a variety of aquatic and terrestrial ecosystems. The term algae has been derived from a Latin word Algae which means sea weeds. Algae are small autotrophic plants that fail to show any cellular differentiation and their sex –organs are unicellular and if multicellular all cells are fertile (Smith 1950). These lower plants are used as a feed, fodder, fertilizer and medicines. Their ecological status as primary producer in ecosystems has become a global interest in the contemporary world. Blue green algae one of the major group of algae, fix atmospheric nitrogen. The application of algal biofertilizers in various agricultural fields has been proved successful and eco-friendly. So the environmentally hazardous chemical fertilizer is now being gradually replaced by eco-friendly biofertilizers. \r\nIt is equally important to understand the harmful effects of algae which produce phycotoxins as secondary metabolites that are toxic not only to human beings but also to many animals, birds, insects etc. It has also been found that chemicals produced by algae cause destruction to many building and important historical monuments.\r\nAlgae are encountered in city’s water supply that causes a lot of nuisance to drinking water. Many algae are troublesome for their ability to produce characteristic odour and taste. The algal blooms which form surface mats in the water bodies prevent penetration of oxygen thereby causes death of fishes. In contrast, algae that is dispersed and not in blooms or mats help in penetration of oxygen thereby helping bacterial decomposition of organic matter (Wetzel, 1975). \r\nThe growth of algae is affected by pollution in number of ways such as (i) poor availability of light (ii) substance may be toxic (iii) effluent may be modify physical and chemical environment (iv) sudden competition with additional organisms (v) depletion of oxygen etc. At the same time some algae may form blooms, produce obnoxious odour and increase toxicity in water. \r\nResearches were undertaken by various workers all over the world in different field of phycology. In India, studies in phycology were initiated mostly by Englishmen working either in Botanical Survey of India or in the University of England. Thresh et al., (1944) suggested that high chloride concentrations indicates the presence of organic matter, presumably of animal origin. The constant addition of even low levels of nitrogen and phosphorus to an aquatic environment could greatly stimulate algal growth and high level of total nitrogen was followed with the growth of Chlorophycean, Eugleninean and Cyanophycean forms Hastler (1947). Prescott, (1948) discussed the importance of temperature in the growth and periodicity of blue green algae. Number of algae was found dominant in the surface layers of the water at the time of low water level Evans (1959). \r\n Gupta and Pamposh 182\r\n \r\nZafar (1964) reported that phosphates were observed in traces during winter season, and Cyanophyceae were in peak when the phosphate content is very low or even undetectable. Studies on diurnal variations in two shallow ponds in Delhi revealed some relationship between physico-chemical conditions of water and plankton. High temperature favored the growth of certain taxa of Chlorococcales Singh (1965). Philipose (1967) observed that Chlorococcales can grow in a wide range of temperature. Williamson (1998, 1999, 2002a, b) has studied the desmid flora of Malaysia, South Africa, Scotland, and Iceland-Orkney respectively. Similarly, Kanetsuna (2002) has described the desmids of Japan, Combodia, Malaysia and Thailand. Feher (2003), Kostkeviciene et al. (2003), and Novakova (2003) have also studied the desmids from Hungary, Lithuania and Czech Republic respectively. Our knowledge of Indian desmidiaceae is mainly through the works of Suxena and Venkataswarlu (1966a, b, c, 1968a, b, 1970), Vidyavati and Nizam (1970, 1974, 1975) from Andhra Pradesh; Sinha and Mishra (1967), Das and Purti (1990)from Bihar; Suxena and Venkataswarlu (1968c) from Kashmir; Kamat (1974), Ashtekar and Kamat (1979), Frietas and Kamat (1979) and Tarar et al. (1998) from Maharashtra; Iyengar and Vimala Bai (1941), Iyengar and Ramanathan (1942), Saraswati (1946), Iyengar (1958), Ramanathan (1962, 1964) from Tamilnadu; Bharti (1965a, b, c, 1966, 1971) from Maharashtra and Karnatka; Bharti and Pai (1972), Hegde and Bharti (1980) from Karnatka; Agarkar (1969, 1971, 1975), Agarkar and Agarkar (1973), Agarkar et al. (1979), Patel and Satyanarayan (1976) from Madhya Pradesh; Patel (1969, 1980), Patel and Asokakumar (1979, 1980, 1981) from Gujarat; Mukherjee and Srivastava (1993) from West Bengal; Suxena et al.(1973), Patel et al. (1977), Patel (1982) from Kerala; An attempt is made in the present communication to focus attention on the studies relating to the collection and identification of algal flora upto generic level.\r\nMATERIALS AND METHODS\r\nStudy area: Delhi is a narrow strip of Indo-Gangetic plains. It is stretched between 28.61°N and 77.23°E, and lies in Northern India. It is bordered by the Indian states of Haryana on the north, west and south and Uttar Pradesh (UP) to the east. Two prominent features of the geography of Delhi are the Yamuna flood plains and the Delhi ridge. In the present study seven sites were selected in different ecological regions of Delhi. Site 1 is located in the north-eastern part, site 2, 3, 4 in central, site 5, 6 in eastern part and site 7 in south-west part of the Delhi (Fig.1).\r\nAlgal collections were undertaken in water-bodies in all these sites present in Delhi at an interval of one month for a period of six months i.e. from March to June 2014. The collected algal samples were preserved in Lugol solution. The preserved samples were then brought to the laboratory for qualitative analysis. Permanent slides were prepared and observed under microscope. Photography was done by an Olympus photomicroscope. The identification of phytoplankton was done with the help of standard books and monographs. (Sharma 1945; Pandey and Trivedi, 1983; Prescott, 1962). \r\nDelhi. It is a tribute to the 90,000 Indian soldiers who sacrificed their life in World War I, the north-west frontier operations of the same time and the 1919 Afghan fiasco. It was designed by the famous British architect, Edward Lutyens and was originally called the All India War Memorial. The lawns of India Gate house a water body also known as boat club used by the visitors for boating and recreation.\r\nSite 4: Old Fort Lake is located outside the old fort near Pragati Maidan, New Delhi. The fort is the oldest fort among all the forts in Delhi also known as Purana Quila and is the oldest known structure of any type in Delhi. It was rebuilt by the Afghan king Sher Shah Suri, on the same site, which was perhaps the site of Indraprastha, believed to be the capital of the Pandavas. The lake is used by the tourist for recreation purpose\r\nSite 5: The campus of Guru Gobind Singh Indraprastha University is situated in Sector 16 C, Dwarka. The campus is surrounded by compensatory forest plantation on its three sides and Najafgarh canal is running just back of the university campus. The campus is abode to various flora and fauna especially avifauna. Within the campus seasonal pools and ditches are filled with rain water, and algae are found in these pools besides providing water to various birds visiting the campus. \r\nSite 6: Waterbody at Shantivan: Shantivan is the Samadhi, or cremation spot of India’s first Prime Minister, Pt. Jawaharlal Nehru and is situated to the north of the Raj Ghat. Shantivan also means ‘the forest of peace’. This area has a beautiful park adorned with trees planted by visiting dignitaries and heads of state. Shanti Van is beautifully landscaped with shady trees and immense greenery and probably for this very reason it was named as the peaceful forest. There are small to large water bodies within the Shanti Van which is home to various birds. Shanti Van is also lying on the banks of the River Yamuna.\r\nSite 7: Wetland in Forest Garhi Mandu: Forest Garhi Mandu is situated in North-east Delhi that lies on the Yamuna Vihar-Wazirabad Road. The forest covers a total area of 894.73 acres of Delhi Development authority (DDA) land in the Sadatpur, Somali and Garhi Mandu Revenue Estates of North Forest division. Garhi Mandu Forest was named because of its location near the Garhi Mandu village and the rich biodiversity accommodated by the area. The forest is located on the eastern banks of River Yamuna and is accompanied by water body known as the Garhi Mandu Wetland which is home to many water birds.\r\nRESULTS AND DISCUSSION\r\nAlgae are group of organisms which grow in different environments. There is hardly any habitat in which algae are not encountered. A great majority of them are truly aquatic and grows in ponds, lakes, puddles etc. Besides occurring in aquatic habitats, algae are found abundantly on tree, trunks rocks and in association with other plants and animals. Hence the ecological relationship of algae are complex and varied. Algae have long been used as indicator of water quality. Because of their short life spans, they respond quickly to environmental changes. They flourish both in highly eutrophic waters while a few others are very sensitive to organic and/or chemical wastes. Some species have also been associated with noxious blooms sometimes creating offensive tastes and odours or toxic conditions. Because of their short life cycles they respond quickly to environmental changes, and hence the standing crop and species composition indicate the quality of the water mass in which they are found. It also demonstrated that algal assemblages could be used as indicators of clean water or polluted water. \r\n\r\nClean water would support a great diversity of organisms, whereas polluted water would yield just a few organisms, with one or few dominant forms\r\nThe present work was aimed at studying the diversity and distribution of various species of algae in Delhi over a period of six months. During this period some interesting facts about the distribution were reported. In the present study, 9 genera of Chlorophyceae,4 genera of Bacillorophyceae and 6 species of Cynophyceae were recorded.\r\nThe chlorophyceae is a group of algae having their photosynthetic pigments localized in\r\nchromatophores which are grass-green because of the predominance of chlorophyll – a and b over the carotene and xanthophylls. In the present study eight genera of chlorophyceae class were recorded. Chlorophyceae was widespread among the plankton. The dominance of chlorophyceae might be due to high dissolved contents. It had also observed that the green algae prefer water with higher concentration of dissolve oxygen.\r\n \r\n Gupta and Pamposh 185\r\n \r\nThe Bacillorophyceae group includes a large number of unicellular and colonial genera which differ from other algae in the shape of their cells. In the present study total five genera of bacillariophyceae class were recorded throughout the study . A number of factors influenced the distribution of diatoms in water body, such as change in water temperature light and irradiance of water and also suggested that high temperature favours the growth of diatoms, but observed an inverse relationship between diatoms and temperature\r\nWhile Chlorophyceae members dominate most of the freshwater ecosystem, Cynophyceae are dominated in polluted water bodies. In river Yamuna, maximum diversity of algae was found in Wazirabad area whereas lowest species diversity were recorded in Sanjay Jheel. This species gradient in the river can be attributed to the pollution level found in different parts of Yamuna, where Wazirabad has clean water and the Sanjay Jheel has the most polluted water.\r\nSome areas in Delhi like the Boat club at the India Gate, the small ponds in Dwarka and Okhla Bird Sanctuary have rich species diversity. The most dominant algae in these water bodies are Oedogonium, Nostoc ,Scenedesmus etc. In the order Ulotrichales Ulothrix was the most dominating with 2 species mostly occurring in the fresh water. They are found growing throughout the study.The order Cladophorales is well reprented by 1 species of Pithopora and one species of Rhizoclonium. They are found growing throughout the study in clean water bodies. Ulothrix mostly grows intermixed with other algae are attached to the aquatic plants.\r\nThe order Oedoginales is represented by one genus Oedogonium with 3 species. The reproductive structures of these species were clearly visible in the months of March and April. They are found growing on moist ground with their narrow hyaline rhizoidal submerged under the soil. Similar observations were reported by Chacko (1979) in Kerela.\r\n The desmids are represented by only one genera Cosmarium. The class Bacillariophyceae is reprensted by 4 genera Navicula and Nitzschia are the most common diatoms in Delhi Order Nostacles is represented by a number of important species.Amongst them 1 genera of Lyngbya,1 genera of anabaena and 1 genera of Nostoc were reported in the present study which is considered as a indicator of polluted water\r\n','Kritika Gupta and Pamposh (2014). Algal Flora of Some Selected Water Bodies of Delhi .Biological Forum – An International Journal 6(2): 181-188'),(4563,'120','The Relationship between In-Service Training of Physical Education Teachers and Job Empowerment\r\n\r\n','Yaser Samkhaniani, Javad Aghazadeh, Shahriar Parikhani, Akbar Aran Ardabili*, Saeed Zareh and Sohrab Isazadeh\r\n','31 YASER SAMKHANIANI @ HAMID AMINI.pdf','',1,'The present study was conducted in order to investigate the relationship between in-service training of physical education teachers in Ardabil Province and their professional skills. For this purpose, in-service training in the Islamic Republic of Iran was classified considering the four components of induction-, public, job- and management improvement training. Based on the study of documents, relevant literatures, and the obtained expert\'s opinions was defined indicators for each one of the in-service training components and then according to the defined indicators, a questionnaire with 30 questions was formulated and evaluated its validity and reliability. The statistical population was included 187 physical education teachers who had been selected using convenience sampling. The obtained data were analyzed by using statistical and inferential statistics (Pearson correlation coefficient). The results suggest that there is a significant relationship between the four components of in-service trainings and the job empowerment of physical education (PE) teachers. And among the components, induction training, public training, job training, and management improvement training have the most and the least relationship with job empowerment of PE teachers, respectively. In spite of the significant relationship between in-service training of Education System with job competencies, there was no strong correlation. This means that the relevant authorities should pay more attention to the method and content of in-service training courses. ','empowerment, in-service training, induction training, job training, public training, management development training.','The present study aimed to investigate the relationship of different courses of in-service training with job empowerment in physical education teachers in the schools of Ardabil Province. Based on the obtained results, there is a significant relationship between in-service training and job empowerment. Considering the obtained coefficient of determination, in general, in-service training courses determine 46/10% of variances in job empowerment of PE teachers in Ardabil Province. Prioritization of the influenced components of in-service training on Job empowerment of PE teachers showed that induction-, public-, job-, and management improvement- training determined the most to the least amount of variance of job empowerment in PE teachers, respectively. \r\nThe obtained findings of the research are in contradiction with the findings of Safari (1996), Boyd (2003), Gautman (2004), Zareyi, Elyasi and Sanati (2007). The reason for this contradiction could be in the fact that physical education teachers play an active role in in-service training provided to them and using their comments and also new and exciting activities and games are involved in the process of solving problems. This would also increase their confidences and job empowerment of PE teachers. \r\nPool (1994) also concluded that in-service trainings will improve the performance of PE teachers only if they are based on the reflective process. It means that empowering teachers could encourage them to provide their professional ideas which have a positive influence on teaching. Fausette et al., (2002) also concluded that in-service training program which include topics such as grouping, teamwork, and the process of problem solving will be effective on the PE teachers\' self-esteem and their planning for teaching physical education. \r\n \r\n\r\n\r\nOn the other hand, the findings of this study are consistent with the findings of Damavandi E. & Elzami (2013), Naderi et al., (2007) and Banville (2004). According to the obtained results, induction-training is the most effective than other in-service training components to empower PE teachers. Assessing the coefficient of determination of job empowerment was determined that only 28% of the variance of job empowerment is justifiable by induction in-service training. This leads to the fact that high level officials and managers of Education System are requiring to providing induction-training\'s pamphlets based on real needs and prevailing culture in Education System to meet part of the information needs of PE teachers. \r\nAccording to Banville (2004), three groups of factors are necessary for an effective in-service training. The first group includes educational planning, management and giving motivation, the second group includes the standard evaluation and obtained feedback, and the third group includes communicating, growth and development. Considering the dominant culture in Ardabil Province, religious beliefs and adherence to ethical principles, public-training courses are also associated with job empowerment of PE teachers. However, reviewing coefficient of determination of public-training with job empowerment revealed that only 27% of the job empowerment variance is justifiable with public in-service training.\r\nTherefore, it seems necessary that Education Department through its cultural deputies implement various programs to strengthen moral and religious principles of PE teachers. And by taking part teachers in regional-based cultural planning provide opportunities for improvement and reflection of their opinions. Job-training courses compared to induction- and public training courses justify less amount of job empowerment variance (18 percent), therefore, it is recommended that Education Department considering in-service training indicators take the necessary actions in order to strengthen the full implementation of these in-service training courses and to reach the productivity of human resources in Education Department. In this study, management improvement training courses have the least correlation with job empowerment of PE teachers, which is probably due to the factors such as lack of interest in management skills, lack of enough motivation to participate in such classes, lack of job commitment or sense of inability to manage class. It is recommended that Education Department provide necessary conditions for PE teachers to be familiar with the principles and techniques of the management to strengthen their technical, educational and information skills. \r\n\r\nFinally, it should be noted that despite the significant relationship between in-service training and job empowerment, there is no strong relationship in Iran Education Department which requires the need for more attention of authorities to the methods and contents of in-service courses. In other words, the relevant authorities should change the attitudes and using frequent revisions design these course so that be most effective in increasing the ability of teachers. Thus PE education teachers create more opportunities to realize the potential talents of school students. \r\n','The Ministry of Education is one of the largest and most complex social systems in each society. This organization has the essential and fundamental role in the survival and continuity of human culture and civilization (Sadri, 2002). \r\nOn the other hand, human resources and personnel are the basic and core element in each organization (Toosi, 2000). Today, enjoying the educated human resources is one of the development indices in the world. The role of the efficient human resources in Education System which is known as the center to enhancing the knowledge and evolution of human science is stronger. Success of schools and achieving educational goals depends on the performance of the specialized and updated teachers and of course, efficient and effective management. Among the various teachers, effectiveness of PE teachers is of the utmost importance, because they are dealing with physical in addition to mental growth. In short, physical education in schools provides a good opportunity for children to participate in physical activities and development of healthy behaviors (Sullivan, 2002).\r\nAchieving the goals of public education through physical activities and health maintenance of students is a difficult task of PE teachers. Obviously, to achieve these goals PE teachers should be in a desired level of fitness, athletic skills and scientific information (Qayoumi, 1982). In other words, teachers who are lacking the desired fitness level never be able to encourage students to participate in sport activities (Shiyar, 1992). According to Sullivan (2002) students who have PE teacher are physically much more active than students who have been trained by teachers with less job readiness. So in this regard, increasing scientific and practical knowledge of PE teachers as a key element of physical and sport education in schools is of great importance. \r\nDifferent methods and approaches are employed to train and strengthen of PE teachers. One of these methods is in-service training. In-service training of teachers improves their skills and competencies quantitatively and qualitatively and prepares them for better training of students.\r\n Samkhaniani, Aghazadeh, Parikhani, Ardabili, Zareh and Isazadeh 190\r\n \r\nThe concept of in-service training and its importance is not only the renewal of awareness and coordination of training and technical skills of personnel with the advances made in the field of administrative sciences, but also in-service training is generally associated with job empowerment. \r\nCareer empowerment is a significant issue in the success or failure of people, especially teachers which has a significant effect on their teaching performance, because teachers with a high degree of professional ability in teaching create more opportunities for successful performance of students. According to Knight and York (2002), job empowerment is a combination of synergies between personal qualities and competencies, technical and process skills, and key skills and competencies. Mikamali (1993) is also believed that empowerment is individual potential or actual capabilities to afford a mental of physical activity. Lin, Sweet and Anisef (2003) have been summarized the required labor market competencies in the three groups (academic skills, personal management skills and teamwork skills).\r\nRecent studies confirm that there is relationship between in-service training and job capabilities and training leads to increase the ability of employees (Damavandi, E. and Elzami, 2013; Naderi, Jamshidian and Salimi, 2007). But the main concern is that results of some studies suggest that the performance of in-service training to develop the capabilities of staffs is not at an acceptable level, because the provided contents are not in conformity with employees\' needs (Safari, 1996; Boyd, 2003; Gautman, 2004; Zareyi, Elyasi and Sanati, 2007). Considering the targets and the duration of the course, there are various kinds of in-service trainings. In the Islamic Republic of Iran, in-service training has been classified in the four categories of induction-, public-, job-, and management improvement trainings.\r\nThese types of short-term training programs are among the effective programs that because of their appropriate flexibility can cover a wide range of teachers and school principals. The main objective of this course is to meet the relatively immediate and short term participant\'s needs and considering the quick and early returns, these courses can improve the existing situation. In general, due to the characteristics of the present age and rapid advances in information and knowledge in various discipline and academic courses cannot meet the requirements of environmental issues, in-service training seems necessary. \r\nConsidering the worrying results of current studies and different categories (induction-, public-, job-, management improvement training) on in-service training in Iran\'s Education System, the researcher aims to investigate the relationship each on the mentioned trainings with job empowerment of PE teachers and finally to prioritize in-service trainings (induction-, public-, job-, management improvement training) for physical education teachers.\r\nMETHODOLOGY\r\nThe present study is a descriptive correlation method and field based data collection was performed. The statistical population of the study includes all PE teachers in boy and girl public and non-profit high schools which 187 of them were selected using convenience sampling from different cities of Ardabil Province. The research survey tool included self-made individual characteristics questionnaire and in-service and job capabilities questionnaires. Dimensions of in-service training was determined according to the Cabinet approved policies and the letter No. 31337 T 1379 of Management and Planning Organization of Iran. In this study, for each of the components of the in-service training (induction-, public-, job-, management improvement training) and job capabilities of the teachers was determined indicators based on the study of documents, relevant literatures, and the obtained expert\'s opinions and then according to the determined indicators was developed a 30 questions questionnaire, 20 questions on the in-service training components and 10 questions on job-related abilities. In order to determine the initial validity, the research questionnaire has been distributed among 10 university professors and experts and their suggestions have been included in the final version. To determine the reliability of questionnaires, a pilot study was conducted on a 30 samples. The obtained Cronbach\'s alpha coefficients were 0/91 for induction training, 0/87 for public-training, 0/89 for job training, and 0/87 for job capabilities, which was approved the internal consistency of the questionnaires. Considering the nature of the research was used descriptive statistics to describe, classify and adjust the raw scores and for inferential statistics was used KS Test (Kolmogrov-Smirnov Test) to normalize data and Pearson correlation coefficient to test the hypotheses. For data analysis was used SPSS statistical software package, version 21. Significant level for all hypotheses was considered α = 0/05.\r\nRESULTS\r\nTable 1 shows the demographic characteristics of the participants.\r\nKS test was used to investigate data normalization which it was confirmed data normality assumption. So the researcher was used parametric statistical test of Pearson correlation coefficient to evaluate the relationship between variables. \r\nThe results of Pearson correlation test showed that the relationship between induction-training and job empowerment of PE teachers is significant (Pearson correlation coefficient for the relationship was obtained 0/53) and (p< 0/05), the relationship between job-training and job empowerment of PE teachers is significant (Pearson correlation coefficient for the relationship was obtained 0/43) and (p< 0/05), the relationship between public-training and job empowerment of PE teachers is significant (Pearson correlation coefficient for the relationship was obtained 0/52) and (p< 0/05), the relationship between management improvement-training and job empowerment of PE teachers is significant (Pearson correlation coefficient for the relationship was obtained 0/39) and (p< 0/05), and ultimately, the relationship between in-service training and job empowerment of physical education teachers was significant (Pearson correlation coefficient for the relationship was obtained 0/67) and (p< 0/05). \r\nThen in order to determine the intensity of the relationship between variables was used the coefficient of determination (r2). Results showed that 28/94% of the variance of the job empowerment in PE teachers is common and justifiable with induction-training, 27/14% of the variance of the job empowerment in PE teachers is common and justifiable with public-training, 18/85% of the variance of the job empowerment in PE teachers is common and justifiable with job-training, and 15/37% of the variance of the job empowerment in PE teachers is common and justifiable with management improvement training. \r\n','Yaser Samkhaniani, Javad Aghazadeh, Shahriar Parikhani, Akbar Aran Ardabili*, Saeed Zareh and Sohrab Isazadeh (2014). The Relationship between In-Service Training of Physical Education Teachers and Job Empowerment .Biological Forum – An International Journal 6(2): 189-193\r\n\r\n\r\n '),(4564,'120','Evaluation of Antibacterial activity of Hibiscus rosa-sinensis flower extract against E. coli and B. subtillis','Dr. Shashi Agarwal and Dr. Rachna Prakash','32 DR SHASHI AGARWAL & DR RACHNA PRAKASH.pdf','',1,'The study was aimed at evaluating the antibacterial activity of the aqueous and solvent extract of Red flowers of Hibiscus rosa-sinensis. The extract contains large amounts of phenolic compounds and flavonoids. The aqueous and solvent extracts of flowers of H. rosa-sinensis were screened for antibacterial activity by using disc diffusion method. The flower material can be taken as an alternative source of antibacterial agent against the human pathogens. ','Antibacterial activity, human pathogens, Flavonoids, phenolic compounds.','The study was aimed at evaluating the antibacterial activity of the aqueous and solvent extract of Red flowers of Hibiscus rosa-sinensis. The extract contains large amounts of phenolic compounds and flavonoids. The aqueous and solvent extracts of flowers of H. rosa-sinensis were screened for antibacterial activity by using disc diffusion method. The flower material can be taken as an alternative source of antibacterial agent against the human pathogens. ','The plants Hibiscus rosa-sinensis belongs to the family Malvaceae. With attractive and colorful flowers, plants of Hibiscus are widely planted as ornamentals and are used in traditional medicine. Hibiscus species have been used as a folk remedy for the treatment of skin diseases, as an anti fertility agent, antiseptic and carminative. Hibiscus Rosa sinensis possesses many biological activities such as antipyretic, analgesic and anti-inflammatory activities (1, 2). It has also been reported that the plant\'s flower possesses anti-spermatogenic, androgenic, anti-tumor and anticonvulsant properties, in addition, the leaves and flowers have been found to be aid in the healing of ulcers. Infusion of the petals is given as refrigerant and demulcent. Many chemical compounds like Cyandin, Quercetin, Hentriacontane, Calcium oxalate, Thiamine, Riboflavin, niacin and ascorbic acids have been isolated (3, 4).\r\nResistance towards revealing antibiotics having become widespread among bacteria and fungi hence new class of antimicrobial substances are urgently required. There are several studies which reveal the presence of such compounds with antimicrobial properties in various plant parts. The petals have some protective mechanism against microbial attack in most of the plants (5). The Hibiscus rosa-sinensis flower petals of a large number of plant species growing in the vicinity of our environment were screened for their antibacterial activity.\r\nThe present study reveals that the evaluation of antibacterial activity in flower extract of Hibiscus rosa-sinensis against human pathogens viz. Escherichia coli and Bacillus subtillis.\r\nMATERIALS AND METHODS\r\nCollection of samples: First of all flowers of Hibiscus rosa-sinensis collected and rinsed with distilled water and shade dried. After that homogenized into fine powder and stored in air tight bottles.\r\nA. Extraction of components\r\nAqueous Extraction: Air dried powder of flower of Hibiscus rosa-sinensis is taken and weighed 4 g of powder was boiled in 100 ml distilled water and filtered with Whatman filter paper no. 1. The filtrate was collected and then stored at 5°C.\r\nSolvent Extraction: 4g air dried powder of flower of Hibiscus rosa-sinensis was placed in 100 ml of organic solvent Hexane in plugged conical flask. After that it was kept in a rotary shaker at 190-220 rpm for 24 hrs. Then filtered and centrifuged it at 10000 rpm for 5 min. The filtrate was collected and the solvent was evaporated by solvent distillation apparatus. It was then stored at 40°C in air tight bottles for further study.\r\nB. Test microorganism for antibacterial assay\r\nFor the in vitro antibacterial assay the following human bacterial were studied such as E. coli B. subtillis.\r\nCulture preparation for antibacterial assay: First of all culture were prepared. For this, cultures were grown on nutrient agar at 34°C for 18 h and the colonies were suspended in saline (0.75% NaCl) and its turbidity was adjusted to 0.5 Ma Farland Standards (108 CFU/ml). This saline culture prepared was used to inoculate the plates.\r\nC. Antibacterial assay\r\nDisc Diffusion: In this method aqueous and organic flower extract were introduced into a disc 0.5 mm (hi-media) and then allowed to dry. The disc was completely saturated with the test compound at concentration of 40 mg/ml. Then this disc was placed directly on the surface of Muller Hinton agar plates swapped with the test organism and the plates were incubated at 34°C for 24h. \r\nD. Statistical Analysis\r\nThe results were analyzed by using standard deviation (SD) statistical method.\r\nRESULTS AND DISCUSSION\r\nThe result showed that aqueous extraction illustrated a maximum zone of inhibition against Bacillus subtillis (B. subtillis) Escherichia coli (E. coli) viz. (15.00 + 2.81), (12.50 + 1.81) mm.\r\nSolvent (Hexane) Extract showed the highest zone of inhibition recorded against B. subtillis and E. coli as (19.86 + 0.15), (18.00 + 1.53) mm. \r\nAntibacterial activity of aqueous extract and solvent (Hexane) extract of flower of H. Rosa sinensis in disc diffusion method are shown in Table 1.\r\nThe extracts of the flower of Hibiscus rosa-sinensis containing multiple organic components including flavonoids, tannins, alkaloids, terpenoids all of which are known to have antibacterial affects (6). These extracts also contain phenolic compounds like tannins that are very good antimicrobial agents.\r\nMedicinal plants provide accessible and culturally relevant sources of primary health care. The remedies based on these plants after have minimum side effect. The bioactive substances in plants are produced as secondary metabolites, which may not only be development stage specific but also organ and tissue specific (7). Secondary metabolites belonging to polyketide and non ribosomal peptide families constitute a major class of natural products with diverse biological functions and they have a variety of pharmaceutically important properties.\r\nThe antibacterial activities of Hibiscus rosa-sinensis flowers were carried out. The flower extract shows an antibacterial activity against the human pathogens such as E. coli and B. subtillis (8). The inhibition of bacterial growth in-vitro by the extracts of flower could be due to the presence of some active compounds in the extracts. These active compounds may act alone or in combination to inhibit bacterial growth (9). There are several reports published on antibacterial activity of different herbal extracts. (10, 11, 12).\r\nIn present work flower extracts of Hibiscus rosa-sinensis were screened for antibacterial activity against human pathogenic bacterial strains. E. coli are a common member of the normal flora of large intestine (13, 14). It is predominant facultative organism in the gastrointestinal tract and colonizes the tract. It is responsible for causing diarrhea. Thus the flower extracts can be used as an important antibiotic to cure disorders caused by the different strains of bacteria \r\n\r\n\r\n(15, 16). The present studies conclude these extract could inhibit human pathogens growth. The results are good as well as the most active extracts can be subjected to isolation of the therapeutic antimicrobials and undergo secondary pharmacological evaluation.\r\n','Dr. Shashi Agarwal and Dr. Rachna Prakash (2014). Evaluation of Antibacterial activity of Hibiscus rosa-sinensis flower extract against E. coli and B. subtillis. Biological Forum – An International Journal 6(2): 194-196.'),(4565,'120','New Records of Collembola (Hexapoda) from Hazaribagh National Park, Jharkhand, India','G.P. Mandal','33 DR GP MANDAL.pdf','',1,'The present study is based on a survey conducted in Hazaribagh National Park, district Hazaribagh, Jharkhand during November-December, 2012.A total of 8 species of Collembola belonging to 4 families have been recorded from different habitats and localities of Hazaribagh National Park and all are new records from this area.','Collembola, Hazaribagh National Park, Jharkhand, New records','The present study is based on a survey conducted in Hazaribagh National Park, district Hazaribagh, Jharkhand during November-December, 2012.A total of 8 species of Collembola belonging to 4 families have been recorded from different habitats and localities of Hazaribagh National Park and all are new records from this area.','The collembolans commonly called “spring-tails” are small, entognathous, wingless hexapods possessing a spring-like forked jumping organ, the furcula underneath the fourth abdominal segment. They are minute in size less than 6 mm in length and antennae primarily with 4 segments. The presence of antennae and absence of cerci distinguish them from the other entognathous hexapods. The collembolans have very diverse distribution occurring in all Zoo-geographical regions of the world inhabiting a wide range of ecological niche and climate. They are prevalent in almost all kind of situations, in mosses, under stones, caves, in ant and termite nests, surface of lakes and ponds even in the intertidal zone. The greatest diversity and density are seen in soil rich organic matter. The first Indian species of collembolan from Malabar hill regions was described by Ritter (1910, 1911).Thereafter, Imms(1912), Carpenter(1917 and 1924), Handschin (1925, 29), Bonet(1930), Mukherjee(1932), Brown(1932), Denis(1936), Baijal(1955,58), Salmon(1956, 1957 and 1970),Choudhuri and Roy(1965),Yosii(1966), Prabhoo(1971a,b), Mitra(1966,67, 74,75), Hazra(1995) and Mandal(2002-tilldate) contributed to the knowledge of Indian Collembola.\r\nApproximately 8,143 species and subspecies belonging to 764 genera in 19 families of Collembola are known from all over the world (Bellinger, Christiansen and Janssens, 1996–2014), out of which 301 species and subspecies of Collembola under 109 genera belonging to 19 families are reported from India (Mandal, 2010). As a part of Annual Plan of Research Work 2012-2015, of Apterygota section of Zoological Survey of India, Kolkata, the studies conducted in the different districts of the Jharkhand and present paper is based on a collection of collembolan from Hazaribagh National Park, district Hazaribagh, Jharkhand. The Collembolan fauna of this region is totally unexplored and present account will form a basis for future research on this group from the area.\r\nMATERIAL AND METHODS\r\nThe study area, Hazaribagh National Park, located 19 km from Hazaribagh and about 135 km from Ranchi in Jharkhand state of India. It is situated between latitude 24°8\'20.4\" N and 85°21\'57.6\"E longitudes. In field a white enamel tray and aspirator were used for collection. An amount of alcohol was used in the tray or the large petridish during beating the bushes, mosses or forest litters for collections of collembolans in order to induce the insects to jump on these objects. Thereafter, they were picked up with fine brush and preserved in 70% alcohol. Preserved specimens were cleared in Marc Andre 1 medium. Dark specimens were kept in Potasium hydroxide (KOH) for softening the chitin. Hoyer’s mounting medium was used for slide-mounting of the specimens. Identification of specimens is done using a phase contrast compound microscope following methodology adopted by Christiansen and Bellinger, 1998.\r\nRESULTS\r\nThe detail of identified species from Hazaribagh National Park, Jharkhand are provided below:\r\nSystematic Account:\r\nI. Family Hypogastruridae Borner, 1906\r\n1.Genus Ceratophysella Borner in Brohmer, 1932\r\nType species: Podura armata Nicolet, 1842\r\nDiagnosis: This genus is characterized by the spoon-shaped mucro, elongate lobes of the postantennalorgan, lamellate unguiculus, and sensory seta of thoracic segment.\r\n1.Ceratophysella indovaria (Salmon, 1970) (Fig. 1, plate-I)\r\n1970. Hypogastrura indovaria Salmon, Trans, Biol. Sci, 12 (13):149\r\nMaterial examined: Hazaribagh district, Paddy field near Koila village, Hazaribagh National Park, 25.xi. 2012, coll. G.P. Mandal, 2exs.\r\nDiagnosis: Dark brown in colour, ocelli on black fields. Body with sparse to heavy short and long curved simple setae. Antennae shorter than head, ratio 19:20, segment IV without sensory knob, but with 7-9 short, stout, bent sense rods, numerous long stout simple setae. P.A.O. very irregular, consisting of 4-12 indistinct disconnected lobes with or without central boss. Body length 0.8 mm. Legs with claw and finely granulate unguiculus, long tenent hair never clavate. The dens with a double row setae down anterior face, each row with four setae; mucro finely granulate and spoon shaped with two distinct lamellae.\r\nDistribution: INDIA: Jharkhand, Sikkim, Arunachal, Assam, Manipur, Mizoram and West Bengal (Salmon, 1970; Mandal and Hazra, 2009).\r\nRemarks: There are 134 species under the genus Ceratophysella from world and in India 5 species are recorded.\r\nII. Family Isotomidae Schaffer, 1896\r\nSubfamily Isotominae Schaffer, 1896\r\n2. Genus Isotomurus Börner, 1903\r\n1903.Isotomurus Borner, Ges. Naturwiss Freunde Berlin 1903:129-182.\r\n1963. Isotomurus Yosii, Contr. Biol. Lab, Kyoto. Univ., 15: 4\r\n \r\nType species: Podura palustris Muller, 1776\r\nDiagnosis: Isotomids with bothriotricha, a quadridentatemucro with a small apical tooth, and no patch of extra blunt setae on the third antennal segment.\r\n2. Isotomurus balteatus (Reuter, 1876) (Fig. 2, Plate-I)\r\n1876. Isotoma balteatus Reuter, Med. Soc. Fauna et. Flora. Fenn.,1: 82.\r\n1963. Isotomurus balteatus (Reuter) Yosii, Contr. Biol. Lab, Kyoto. Univ., 15: 4\r\n2009. Isotomurus balteatus (Reuter) Mandal and Hazra, Records of the Zool. Surv. Ind. Occasional Paper no. 298. pp 1-206.\r\nMaterial examined: Hazaribagh district, Lodha Dam surrounding, Rajderva Range, Hazaribagh National Park, 25.xi. 2012, coll. G.P.Mandal, 12 exs.\r\nDiagnosis: Colour with a deep violet pigment appearing black which form distinct transverse band on the anterior margin of tergities. Antennal ratio is 10:15:16:26. Ant. IV with short sub apical sense rods. P.A.O as large as anterior ocellus. Ocelli 8+8.Furcula large.Dens distinctly annulated with dorsal side; mucro with a small apical, 2 large subapical and large external lateral teeth.\r\nDistribution: INDIA: Jharkhand, Arunachal, Manipur, Orissa, Tripura and West Bengal (Mandal and Hazra, 2009), COSMOPOLITAN.\r\nRemarks: There are 70 species under the genus Isotomurus from world and in India 3 species are recorded.\r\nIII. Family Entomobryidae Schaffer, 1896\r\nSubfamily Entomobryinae Schaffer, 1896\r\n3. Genus Lepidocyrtus Bourlet, 1839\r\n1839. Lepidocyrtus Bourlet, Mem. Soc. Agric.Arts. Sci. Douai: 89-166.\r\nType species: Lepidocyrtus curvicollis Bourlet, 1839\r\nDiagnosis: Body with scales; Head with 8 + 8 eyes; Mucrobidentate; Dental spines absent; Antennae and legs scaled.\r\nSubgenus Lanocyrtus Yoshii and Yayuk, 1989\r\n3. Lepidocyrtus (Lanocyrtus) cyaneus Tullberg, 1871 (Fig. 3, Plate-I)\r\n1869. Lepidocyrtus cyaneus Tullberg, W. Sch. Bokt. Uppsala. 21pp.\r\n1959. Lepidocyrtus cyaneus Yosii, Contr. Biol. Lab. Kyoto. Univ.,10: 25.\r\n2009. Lepidocyrtus cyaneus Mandal and Hazra, Records of the Zool. Surv. Ind. Occasional Paper no. 298. pp 1-206.\r\nMaterial examined: Hazaribagh district, Chaltanullah, Rajderva Range, Hazaribagh National Park, 26.xi. 2012, coll. G.P. Mandal, 8 exs.\r\nDiagnosis: Mesothorax slightly protruded over the head. Thoracic segments II: III as 5:3.Legs coloured on the proximal half of coxae. Abdominal segments .III/IV as 4:13.Furcula with manubrium: dens as 10:9. Manubrium ventrally scaled with 2+2 serrated terminal setae. Dental lobe without appendix.Body length 1.0 mm.\r\nDistribution: INDIA (Jharkhand, Arunachal and Manipur) Mandal and Hazra, 2009; MALAYSIA, SINGAPUR and VIETNAM (Yosii, 1959).\r\nRemarks: There are 26 species under the genus Lepidocyrtus and subgenus Lanocyrtus from world and in India 4 species are recorded.\r\nSubgenus AcrocyrtusYosii, 1959\r\n4. Lepidocyrtus (Acrocyrtus) heterolepis Yosii, 1959 (Fig. 4, Plate-I)\r\n1959. Lepidocyrtus (Acrocyrtus) heterolepis Yosii, Contr. Biol.Lab. Kyoto. Univ.,10: 33\r\n2009. Lepidocyrtus (Acrocyrtus) heterolepis Mandal and Hazra, Records of the Zool. Surv. Ind. Occasional Paper no. 298. pp 1-206.\r\nMaterial examined: Hazaribagh district, Chaltanullah, Dam no.1, Rajderva Range, Hazaribagh National Park, 26.xi. 2012, coll. G.P. Mandal, 16exs.\r\nDiagnosis: Body uniformly with bluish tinge. Ant. /Head as 12:7. Eyes black 8+8. Head with a transverse stripe along the fore margin; frontal area and ventral side of the head dark. Antennae uniformly bluish pigmented. Thoracic segments I and II little protruded, segments. II, III as 75:25. Legs with unguis with usual teeth and unguiculuslanceolate. Manubrium: Dens as 24:18. Dentes shorter than manubrum, mucrobidentate, two teeth subequal and with a basal spine. Body legnth 1.6mm.\r\nDistribution: INDIA (Jharkhand, Arunachal and Manipur), SINGAPUR AND MALAYSIA\r\nRemarks: There are 21 species under the genus Lepidocyrtus and subgenus Acrocyrtus from world and in India 3 species are recorded.\r\nSubfamily Seirinae Sensu Deharverg, L.2004\r\n4. Genus Seira Lubbock, 1869\r\n1869. Seira Lubbock, Trans. Linn. Soc. London, 27: 277-297\r\nType species: Degeeria domestica Nicolet, 1842\r\nDiagnosis: Falcate mucro and thin brownish scales on the body, furcula, first three antennal segments, and legs.\r\n5. Seiraindica (Ritter, 1911) Yosii, 1966 (Fig. 5, Plate-II)\r\n1911. Callistocyrtus indicus Ritter, Naturhist. Hofmus. Wien., 24: 379-398\r\n1930. Pseudosira indica Bonet, Eos, 6:249-273 \r\n1936. Lepidocyrtus unifasciatus Denis, Mem. Conn. Acad. Arts and Sci., 10: 261-282\r\n1966. Seiraindica Yosii, Kyoto Univ. Sci. Exp.1955, 8: 333-405.\r\nMaterial examined: Hazaribagh district, Auradhanullah, Rajderva Range, Hazaribagh National Park, 26.xi. 2012, 22exs.\r\nDiagnosis: Body length 1.8 mm. Eyes 8+8. Body colour brownish with bluish pigments with yellowish brown pigments covering abdominal segments II, III, some spots of head and thoracic segment .II. Antennae scaled dorsally, segments III and IV faintly annulated; ratio of antennal segments I-IV: 7:9:9:45. Furcula well developed. Manubrium dorsally with many ciliated setae. Dentes dorsally crenulated. Mucrofalciform.\r\nDistribution: INDIA: Jharkhand,Arunachal, Assam, Nagaland and Maharashtra (Mandaland Hazra, 2009; Ritter, 1911; Yosii, 1966).\r\nRemarks: There are 205 species under the genus Seira from world and in India 12 species are recorded.\r\nIV. Family Paronellidae Borner, 1913\r\nSubfamily Paronellinae Borner, 1913 sensu Soto- Adams et. al., 2008\r\n5. Genus Callyntrura Borner, 1906\r\n1906. Callyntrura Borner, Mitt. Naturhist. Mus. Hamburg 23: 147-188.\r\nType species: Paronella anopla Borner, 1906\r\nDiagnosis: Body with scales; vertex with macrochaetae; eyes 8+8; antennae 4-segmented; prelabral setae feathered; manubrium without spines; mucro not falcate and with more than 3 teeth.\r\n \r\n\r\n. Callyntrura lineata (Parona, 1892) (Fig. 6, Plate-II)1892. Entomobrya lineate Parona,. Atti. Soc. Ital., Milano, 34: 132-135.\r\n1912. Paronella borneri Imms, Proc. Zool. Soc. London, pp.80-125, new synonymy.\r\n1912. Paronella phanolepisImms,. ibid, pp. 80-125, new synonymy 1957. \r\nHandschinphysa lineata Salmon, Acta. Zool. Cracov.,11(14): 313-362.\r\n1974. Callyntrura (Handschinphysa) lineata Mitra, Rev. Ecol. Biol. Sol.11(3):397-439.\r\nMaterial examined: Hazaribagh district, Lodha Dam surrounding, Rajderva Range, Hazaribagh National Park, 25.xi. 2012, coll. G.P. Mandal, 6exs.\r\nDiagnosis: Body pale yellow with variable purple to blue black pigment. Head, body and appendages clothed with setae and pseudo scales; Head pear shaped, frontal spines 4+4 present; ocelli, 8+8. Head /Ant I =28/27; ratio of length of antennal segments I-IV 28:28:18:48; Relative length index of thoracic segments II: III: 52:22; unguis elongate, little curved, unguis with paired inner and 2 distal unpaired teeth; unguiculuslanceolate; tenent hair clavate; Manubrium: mucrodens 110:148; dentes stout; mucro plump with 6-9 teeth. Body length 2.5 – 4 mm.\r\nDistribution: INDIA: Jharkhand, Himachal Pradesh, Manipur, Tripura and Uttarakhand (Mandal and Hazra, 2009; Mitra, 1974).\r\n7.Callyntrura vestita (Handschin, 1925) (Fig. 7, Plate-II)\r\n1925. Microphysa vestita Handschin, Treubia, 6: 225-270; 1928, Treubia, 10:225-270\r\n1957. Handschinphysa vestita Salmon, Acta. Zool. Cracov., 11 (14): 313-362\r\n1974. Callyntrura (Handschinphysa) vestitaMitra, Rev. Ecol. Biol. Sol.,11(3): 397-439\r\nMaterial examined: Hazaribagh district, Dumrinullah, Rajderva Range, Hazaribagh National Park, 26.xi. 2012, coll. G.P. Mandal, 16exs.\r\nDiagnosis: Unique in colour pattern and usually without any variation; body green in fresh, pale yellow in spirit. Body clothed with flexed macrochaetae, acuminate, nonflexed setae and scales. Headpear shaped with 4+4 dark frontal spines; ocelli 8+8. Antennae subequal or little longer than body, ratio of length of antennal segments I-IV 43:40:27:60. Relative length index of thoracic segments II: III 63:31; unguis straight, little curved apically with inner, paired basal teeth reduced, single unpaired tooth small; external baso-lateral teeth large; unguiculilanceolate. Relative length index of abdominal segments I: II: III: IV: V: VI 18:31:14:172:22:9; Manubrium: mucrodens :45:53; mucro usually with 6 teeth, dental scale appendages small. Body length 2-2.5 mm.\r\nDistribution: INDIA: Jharkhand, Maharashtra, Assam, Manipur, Meghalaya, Nagaland (Mandal and Hazra, 2009; Mitra, 1974); INDONESIA (Salmon, 1957).\r\nRemarks: There are 99 species under the genus\r\nCallyntrura from world and in India 16 species are recorded.\r\n6.Genus: Yosiia Mitra, 1967\r\n1967.Yosiia Mitra, Proc.Zool. Soc., Calcutta, 20: 43-47.\r\nType species: Yosiia dehradunia Mitra, 1967\r\nDiagnosis: Scales absent; dens crenulated; mucro vestigial; dental scale appendages greatly enlarged, dorsal in relation to dens and with longitudinal striations. \r\n8.Yosiia dehradunia Mitra, 1967 (Fig. 8, Plate-II)\r\nMaterial examined: Hazaribagh district, Bagjobra, Rajderva Range, Hazaribagh National Park, 26.xi. 2012, coll. G.P. Mandal, 24exs.\r\nDiagnosis: Pale yellow with dust of blue pigment over the body and a pair of dark blue-black patches one on each side on abdominal segments III and IV. Scales absent; head and body clothed with setae. Head pear-shaped; ocelli 8+8 in pigmented ocellar fields each group of 8 ocelli arranged in two longitudinal parallel rows. Thoracic segment I reduced; the relative length index of segments II: III= 23:11. Relative length index of abdominal segments I:II :III: IV :V:VI = 6:15:4:67:9:6; dens and manubrium subequal, dens crenulated; mucro vestigial; dental scale appendages greatly enlarged.\r\nDistribution: INDIA: Jharkhand, Uttarakhand and Uttar Pradesh (Mitra, 1967).\r\nRemarks: Single species under the genus Yosiia from India as well as world is recorded.\r\n','G.P. Mandal (2014). New Records of Collembola (Hexapoda) from Hazaribagh National Park, Jharkhand, India. Biological Forum – An International Journal 6(2): 197-202'),(4566,'120','Physico-chemical Properties in Honey from Different Zonal of East Azerbaijan','Abolfazl Asadi-Dizaji*, Fatemeh Moeni-Alishah**, Yadollah Yamini***, Yahya Ebrahimnezhad*, Ali Asghar Yari* and Shahnaz Rouhnavaz*','34 ABOLFAZL ASADI-DIZAJI.pdf','',1,'The present study was undertaken to determine the physico-chemical parameters of honey samples obtained from different zonal of East Azerbaijan (Iran). The 60 samples were analyzed for parameters including moisture, ash, total acidity, diastase activity, invertase activity hydroxymethylfurfural (HMF) and sucrose. Average moisture was, the ash content was 0.47%, the total acidity was 17.59 meq/kg, the diastase activity was 18.59 DN, invertase activity was 11.40 IN, the sucrose was 4.06% and the HMF was 6.03mg/kg. The results of study indicated that 92.5% of honey samples were at good quality. It is important that the essential precautions should be taken to ensure standardization and rationalization of beekeeping techniques, manufacturing procedures and storing processes to improve honey quality.','Honey, Physico-chemical, composition, Iran','The analytical work was carried out on 60 samples in this study completely agree with the European Commission and the Codex Alimentarius indicating adequate processing, good maturity and freshness. Honey samples that are available commercially different quality on account of various factors like seasons, packaging and processing conditions, floral source, geographical origin, and storage period. The results obtain of this study very important for the commercialization of the Iran honey.','East Azerbaijan is a suitable environment for apiculture; honey production has been well developed. There are about 300,000 hives in East Azerbaijan that the total production of honey is estimated at 2,500 tons. Honey is the natural sweet substance produced by Apis mellifera from the nectar of plants or from secretions of living parts of plants or excretions of plant-sucking insects on the living parts of plants, which the bees collect, transform by combining with specific substances of their own, deposit, dehydrate, store and leave in honeycombs to ripen and mature (European Union, 2002). It plays an important part in our nutrition and it is well-known for its positive effects on health. Honey contains approximately 80% carbohydrates (35% glucose, 40% fructose, and 5% sucrose) and 20% water, serving as an excellent source of energy. Also, it contains more than 180 substances, including amino acids, vitamins, minerals, enzymes, organic acids phenol compounds. Its pH is approximately 4.0 (Ouchemoukh et al., 2007). The composition of honey depends on the plant species visited by the honeybees and the environmental processing and storage conditions (Guler et al., 2007).\r\nThe purpose of this study was undertaken to study physicochemical quality of honey purchased in different zonal of East Azerbaijan.\r\nMATERIALS AND METHODS\r\nThis study was realized in the food-biochemistry laboratory of the University of Shabester in 2013. A number of 60 honey samples were obtained directly from beekeepers of East Azerbaijan and kept at 4–5°C until analysis.\r\nA. Biochemical Analysis\r\nTotal acidity, 10g of the honey samples were dissolved in 75 ml CO2 with free distilled water and titrated with 0.1 N NaOH (AOAC, 2000) Methods No. 962.19.\r\nThe moisture content was determined by drying a weighed amount of the product at 105°C until a constant weight was obtained (AOAC, 2000) Methods No. 969.38.\r\nAsh: Five gram of each honey sample was separately weighed out into a porcelain crucible previously ignited and weighed. Organic matter was charred by igniting the sample on a hot plate in the fume cupboard. The crucible were then placed in the in the muffle furnace and maintained at 6000C for 6 h. They were then cooled in a desiccator and weighed immediately (AOAC, 1990). The percent Ash was calculated as:\r\n \r\n\r\n (Weight of crucible + ash) – (Weight of empty crucible) x 100\r\nAsh (%) = _______________________________________________\r\n Sample weight\r\n\r\nDiastase activity: Determination of diastase activity was done in order to compare the activity of both enzymes. It was evaluated spectrophotometrically using the Shade method. The diastase activity is calculated as diastase number (DN). DN expresses units of diastase activity (Go the unit). One unit is defined as the amount of enzyme that will convert 0.01 g of starch to the prescribed end-point in 1h at 40°C under the conditions of test (Bogdanov et al., 1997).\r\nInvertse activity was determined according to the method of Siegenthaler (1977) which is based on the spectrophotometric measurement of decomposition of p-nitrophenyl-α-d-glucopyrinoside (p-NPG) in pnitrophenol and is determined spectrophotometrically at 400 nm. The honey invertase activity was calculated from the measured absorbency multiplying by the factor of 158.94 and calculated to a kilogram of honey. Then the value was expressed as invertase number (IN). The IN indicates the amount of sucrose per gram hydrolyzed in 1h by the enzymes contained in l00g of \r\nhoney under test conditions. Each sample was analyzed two times. The results are expressed in units of the enzyme per kilogram (U/Kg).\r\nHydroxymethylfurfural (HMF), was done using the Winkler method where the solution of the tested honey when reacting with p-toluidin and barbituric acid and in the presence of hydroxymethylfurfural (HMF) gives a wine-red compound (Bogdanov et al., 1997). The absorption was measured at 550 nm on a one-ray Lambda II (fu Perkin Elmer, USA). Concentration of HMF was determined with the help of a calibrated line using the method of linear regression. Each sample was analyzed in three parallel determinations.\r\nSucrose was determined according to AOAC (2000).\r\nRESULTS AND DISCUSSION\r\nThere were significant differences (P<0.05) in Moisture, ash, total acidity, invertase and diastase activity, Sucrose and HMF in the different zonal of East Azerbaijan (Table 1).\r\n \r\nThe water content of honey varied from 15.98 % in Hashtrod, to 18.62% in kalaybar. The average was 17.29%. This moisture variation can be explained by the composition and floral origin of honey samples. The strong interaction of sugar with water molecules may decrease the water available for microorganisms. Honey is hygroscopic and will remove moisture from \r\nthe air. The low moisture content of honey also forms an important part of the system which protects honey from attack by microorganisms. The hyper osmotic nature of honey would prevent the growth of bacteria and yeasts as it draws water out of the organism, killing them by desiccation.\r\n \r\n\r\n\r\n\r\n Asadi-Dizaji, Moeni-Alishah, Yamini, Ebrahimnezhad, Yari and Rouhnavaz 205\r\n \r\nThe moisture content of honey is widely related to the harvest season in East Azerbaijan and the level of maturity released in the hive. This parameter is highly important for the shelf life of the honey during storage. According to Codex Alimentarius (2001) and EU (2000) standard of honey samples, the maximum value of moisture content in honey is 21%, this is in contrast to our findings in the present work. The moisture content of the present study similar results was detected by (Al-Khalifa and Al-Arify, 1999; Duman Aydin, et al., 2008; Nanda, et al., 2003).\r\nThe floral origin has been reported to be responsible for the differences in ash content (Fredes and Montenegro, 2006) and it is also a quality criterion for honey botanical origin (European Commission, 2000). Results of the ash content obtained in this study were varied from 0.329 % in Meyaneh, to 0.562% in Shabesta. This result similar results was detected by (Karabournioti and Zerualaki, 2001; Mouteria, et al., 2003). These differences in mineral content are dependent on the type of soil in which the original nectar bearing plant was located (Anklam, 1998). \r\nThe total acidity of honey varied from 16.20 (meq/ Kg) in Kalaybar, to 18.23 (meq/ Kg) in Tasouj. The average was 17.59 (meq/ Kg). Similar results were detected by Rameres et al., (2000); Ozcan, et al., (2006). The acidity of honey is due to the presence of organic acids, particularly the gluconic acid, in equilibrium with their lactones or esters and inorganic ions such as phosphate and chloride (Al-Khalifa and Al-Arify, 1999). The acidity of honey developed due to the presence of organic acids. A high total acidity may mean that the honey had fermented at some time, and that the resulting alcohol was converted into organic acid (Rodgers, 1979)\r\nThe results from invertase determinations in different zonal of East Azerbaijan honeys are presented in Table 1. It was estimated that invertase activity in the different zonal honeys was 11.40 IN on average. The minimum value of the invertase activity in the Jolfa honeys was 2 IN and the maximum value Tabriz honeys was 21.02 IN. The use of diastase activity as an indicator of freshness, as is common practice for Apis mellifera honeys. However, invertase is a parameter that is not normally considered for these ends, in spite of being more sensitive to heat, and it rather therefore a parameter to be used for measuring the quality of honey. White et al., (1964) and White (1994) demonstrated that invertase was destroyed more quickly than amylase when honey was heated, so invertase activity could be a better indicator of honey quality than \r\n\r\n\r\ndiastase activity. Dustmann (1993) states that invertase, in combination with other analytical criteria, is able to detect damage caused to the quality of the honey due to overheating or to long periods of storage. \r\nThe variability in enzyme activity found in the different honey types is probably due to a series of factors, such as: nectar collection period (and consequently the physiological stage of the colony); abundance of nectar flow and its sugar content (a high flow of concentrated nectar lead to lower enzyme content); age of the bees (when the honey bee becomes a forager its glands produce more digestive enzymes); pollen consumption, etc (Simpson et al., 1968; Fluri et al., 1982; Brouwers, 1982, 1983; Huang et al., 1989a, 1989b).\r\nThe Sucrose of honey varied from 1.98 % in Tasouj, to 6.98 % in kalaybar. The average was 4.06%. Our findings showed approximately similarity with the results of Gul and Sahinler (2002), Mouteria et al., (2003) and Tchoumboue et al., (2007). The level of sucrose differs according to the maturity degree and origin of the nectar compound of the honey.\r\nThe minimum value of the HMF in the Zonouz honeys was 4.23 mg/kg and the maximum value Meyaneh honeys was 8.42(mg/kg). The average was 6.03 mg/kg. Our findings were appropriate to TSE, CODEX and EU standards and lowest Italy honeys (7.80 mg/kg, Esti et al., 1997) and Turkey 25.9 mg/kg, Akyuz, et al., (1995). The diastase activity and the HMF content are widely recognized as parameters indicating the freshness of honey (Mendes et al., 1998; Terrab et al., 2002). The variation in the HMF may be related to source of honey as well as climate of region (Singh and Bath, 1997).\r\n','Abolfazl Asadi-Dizaji*, Fatemeh Moeni-Alishah**, Yadollah Yamini***, Yahya Ebrahimnezhad*, Ali Asghar Yari* and Shahnaz Rouhnavaz (2014). Physico-chemical Properties in Honey from Different Zonal of East Azerbaijan .Biological Forum – An International Journal 6(2): 203-207.'),(4567,'120','The Role of Tacit Knowledge Transfer in Empowering the Employees of Physical Education Departments','Hamid Amini, Reza Imanzadeh, Mohsen Rahmanian, Nader Afravi, Moslem Bay and Mahdi Sedaghat\r\n','35 HAMID AMINI.pdf','',1,'Today, empowerment of employees is considered as one of the important issues of human resource management in the organizations. In the meantime, the feeling of each organizational member about their empowerment is important. In empowering employees, the role of tacit knowledge and convert it into explicit and transferable knowledge among other employees is clearly noticeable. The purpose of this study was to investigate the relationship between the tacit knowledge transfers with a sense of empowerment in Mazandaran province\'s physical education department employees. The research was in surveying mode and required data are collected by using questionnaires and random sampling method among the 173 employees. The research tools were Spritz empowerment questionnaire and Madisch tacit knowledge transfer questionnaire. The validity of the questionnaire was confirmed by ten members of sports management professors. The reliability of the questionnaire is obtained 0.85 in Cronbach\'s alpha coefficient for the empowerment questionnaire and 0.92 in tacit knowledge transfer questionnaire. Spearman correlation test was used to test the hypothesis. The results suggest a significant relationship between the variables. This means that, there is a significant positive relationship between tacit knowledge transfer from one side and the ability of employees in decision making, acceptance of responsibility for decision-making by employees, access of employees to related tools for decision making and implementation, and finally, acceptance of responsibility for the consequences of their decisions on the other side.','Knowledge management, tacit knowledge transfer, empowerment, decision making, responsibility','The findings of this paper indicate that the transfer of tacit knowledge and its conversion into explicit knowledge have correlation with the participation of employees in decision making. This finding is consistent with the results of Lawler. Bowen and Lawler (1992) consider empowering as a strategy to further contribution of employees in power. Bowen and Lawler\'s empowering model, access to information plays an important role in decision making. Bowen and Lawler believe that, empowerment exists when companies distribute their power, information, knowledge and rewards in the organizations. Approval of the tacit knowledge transfer relationship with the capabilities of employees in this study is consistent with the research of Conger and Kanungo. Conger and Kanungo (1988), consider empowerment as the process of self-efficacy enhancing feelings in individuals by identifying and eliminating conditions that caused the employees\' disability (Conger and Kanungo, 1988). In their paper entitled \"The empowerment process: the unity of theory and practice\", they consider empowerment as a motivational approach means being able. \r\nBeing capable of creating conditions for increasing motivation and perform assigned duties by strengthening their self-efficacy feelings implies that, according to the results of this study tacit knowledge transfer is the disability removal factor. Another point that should be noted in conclusion is that the transfer of knowledge can contribute to the distribution of power in the organization. These results of the research are commensurate with the Harley research. He believes that empowerment is a strategy that in which a manager can achieve employees\' commitment in granting them some control. Also, the essence of empowerment is changes in the distribution and applying power in the organizations. According to this study, this distribution of power and authority is possible through the transfer of tacit knowledge. Abdullahi and Nave Ebrahim believe that, empowerment includes three most important factors: Strategies and management behavior, perceived self-efficacy of employees and organizational conditions and factors (Abdullahi and Nave Ebrahim, 1386). Here, the knowledge management and tacit knowledge transfer can be considered as a component of management strategies which cause the employee empowerment.\r\nThen, according to the findings of this study, the following is recommended for the studied organization:\r\n-Employees should be trained in their job field and the knowledge related to employees\' responsibility should be given to them, so that after acquiring the necessary education and their sense of empowerment, they be allowed to make decisions in their job responsibilities.\r\n-Employees should be encouraged with documenting the tacit knowledge and its transfer among colleagues, to accept the responsibilities of the decision implementation.\r\n-The required information and knowledge should be provided for employees to make decisions about the manager\'s delegated duties to them. In this way, the manager provides necessary information instead of offering ways to the employees or making personal decisions, so that they can make their own decisions.\r\n-The rewards which are given to the employees for proper decision making and implementation should be granted to them in a ceremony attended by the entire employees, so that they ensure the timely acknowledgment of their activities. This will increase the confidence and strengthening the capabilities of the encouraged employees.\r\n-Before doing anything, organizations should pay attention to participation culture and contribute to their mental models; the culture that encourages the knowledge transport and sharing in the organization.\r\n-A solution for these employees to feel the ability of performing works is that the opportunity to successful performing of harder works which leads to the achievement of desired goals should be given to them. This can be done by breaking large tasks into components and then assigning only one segment of it at any time to the employees and capabilities can be supported through the feedback of work\'s results.\r\n-Managers are recommended to provide their knowledge for employees to make it a culture as a pattern and the employees exchange their knowledge with each other. This removes the confidentiality of information and knowledge.\r\n-It is recommended that, the regulations and policies which limit the access to information and knowledge be removed and increase the speed of access to knowledge and its exchange in the organization, such as the use of office automation.\r\n-It is suggested that, with periodic displacement of people in different parts of the organization, the possibility of transmission of knowledge and thus empowerment of people should be provided.\r\n-It is recommended that, the organizations with the participation of the employees in external training \r\n\r\n\r\ncourses provide the possibility of acquiring knowledge from outside the organization for the employees.\r\n','The application of knowledge management in organizations is undeniable. Factors such as globalization, downsizing of the governments, citizen-centering and necessity of citizen participation require special attention to the knowledge management. Organizations must be able to effectively manage their knowledge assets (Abtahi and Salvati, 1385). Knowledge management is a challenging process, because it is difficult to recognize its real value and thus, applying it in a desirable manner to create a competitive advantage for an organization is more difficult. Now the managers are trying to extract the accumulated knowledge in the minds of organization members through knowledge management and share it among all participants. In this case, the stored knowledge in the system converts to a usable permanent source and provides a sustainable competitive advantage for organizations (Heisman, 2006). Knowledge management includes human behavior, attitudes and human capabilities, business philosophies, patterns, practices, processes and complex technologies (Vij, 2002). Knowledge management is the process of creating and sharing, transferring and retaining knowledge so that it can be an effective way to apply in organizations (Hoffman, Hulsher and Sharif, 2005). Nonaka cites two types of knowledge and distinguishes between them. Actually, these two kinds of knowledge are two sides of a coin and shape the total knowledge.\r\nA. Tacit knowledge\r\nTacit knowledge can be a set of experiences, skills, work perspectives and intellectual and value system inside a person which can\'t be told and it is not stored in any database, but also its place is in the human mind and forms his activities.\r\n \r\nB. Explicit knowledge \r\nExplicit Knowledge is an objective knowledge and can be expressed in formal and in systematic language. This type of knowledge is independent from the employees and it exists in computer information systems, organizational documents and etc.\r\nTacit knowledge has a key role in the affairs and plays a major role in knowledge management. The main challenge of knowledge management is to further convert of tacit knowledge into explicit knowledge. The more important point is that knowledge flow is the thing that causes the growth of the organization; because stagnant and static knowledge do not guarantee the success of the organization. This flow arises from the interaction of both explicit and tacit knowledge and forms the organization\'s knowledge life cycle (Nonaka, 1994).\r\nHowever, an important factor in the survival and viability of organizations is empowering the human resources. In other words, importance of human resources is higher than new technologies, financial and material resources. This means that, the main difference of organizations is in knowledge not material possessions. The role of efficient and capable human resources is undeniable in achieving the organization\'s objectives. Human resource is the most important, most expensive and most valuable assets of an organization. Formidable human resource creates formidable organization. A formidable organization is an environment in which employees in different departments cooperate with each other in performing the activities. Empowerment of human resources, as a new approach to intrinsic motivation jobs is releasing the internal forces of employees and providing meaningful contexts and creating opportunities to flourish talents, abilities and competencies of individuals. Empowerment begins with changes in beliefs, thoughts and attitudes of employees. This means that, they need to believe that they have the required skills and competencies to perform duties successfully and they need to feel that they have freedom and independence in performing the activities. They need to believe that they have influence and control capacity on job\'s outcome and they need to feel that they are following meaningful and valuable career goals and believe that they are being treated honestly and fairly. Sense of empowerment has a great influence on the performance of the organization\'s employees; if people have the sense of empowerment, several organizational and personal benefits such as creativity, flexibility, problem solving, high quality job performance, job satisfaction, mental health will be yielded. In addition, empowerment people are self-control and self-adjusting. They readily accept responsibility, and have a positive view of themselves; others and the environment, and they are optimistic \r\nabout their career life and fundamentally look others as a colleague and partner, not a competitor. When conflicts or problems occur in job status, they search the solutions rather than being indifferent and evade their responsibility. They are criticizable and they are constantly learning. One of the effective factors on empowering employees is information, education and job skills. Bowen and Lawler consider empowerment as sharing the front line employees in the four elements of information, knowledge, rewards and power (Bowen and Lawler, 1992).\r\nAccording to this definition, it is observed that one of the leading factors to empowering the employees is knowledge. Today, all of the working and scientific groups recognize that they should be centered on science activities to have sustained presence in the business and competitive world. Conceptual knowledge is beyond the data and information. Knowledge is organized data sets, practical solution related to it, results of applying the various decisions and related training. Knowledge is the foundation of skills, experience and expertise of each individual (Drucker, 1999). Therefore, the collection of knowledge and its management can empower people. Furthermore, tacit knowledge is gradual, so, it needs time passing and wasting it should be avoided. This knowledge should be converted into explicit knowledge and it should be transferred to other employees and it should be used in a way to empower them. At the first time, Michael Polanyi proposed the concept of tacit knowledge by stipulating to the fact that we know more than what we can say. He believes that tacit knowledge is in personal area and involves the intersection between the individual and the culture to which he belongs. From the perspective of Polanyi, tacit knowledge can only be learned implicitly. This is rooted in his conception of tacit knowledge as the mind tacit power and integration power and its relation to comprehension (Mason and Mc Gary, 2007). Tacit knowledge as an important stimulus in the process of creativity and innovation plays an important role as an organizational resource and success factor in the organization.\r\nDue to the rapid environmental changes and human resources competition in organizations to update themselves, empowerment is one of the best ways to adapt to these changes.\r\nOn the other hand, due to the dynamic environment of physical education departments and many changes that occur in sport organizations, they need to have flexible forces and employees should be initiated and accept the responsibility of their administration. This will be done by empowering them to do things better. Also physical education departments have a large number of experienced human resources in retirement borders and have years of experience and valuable knowledge. \r\n\r\n\r\n Amini, Imanzadeh, Rahmanian, Afravi, Bay and Sedaghat 210\r\n \r\nThis knowledge gained from experience that should be used to empower other employees, requires good knowledge management. \r\nThis requires that provincial physical education departments with respecting the knowledge management and mutually empowering individuals put it in one of its priority programs as a strategic and necessary need in pioneering in the field of competitiveness.\r\nAccording to this description, it seems logical that tacit knowledge transfer relationship with the sense of empowerment in physical education departments\' employees be studied and examined. In this regard, the following secondary objectives were evaluated:\r\n-Identifying the role of tacit knowledge transfer on the ability of employees in decision making\r\n-Identifying the role of tacit knowledge transfer on the accepting responsibility for implementing the decisions of the employees\r\n-Identifying the role of tacit knowledge transfer on the employees access to related tools for decision making and implementation \r\n-Identifying the role of tacit knowledge transfer on the accepting responsibility for consequences of decisions taken by the employees.\r\nFindings of this study can be used in improving the plans of human resources in deputy of physical education departments in general and Sports and Physical Education Vice President in particular. Results show that there is a significant relationship between organizational structure and empowering, so that the bureaucratic organizational structure has a negative relationship with empowering (Sabzikaran, 1389). There is a significant relationship between psychological empowerment and organizational entrepreneurship (Zare, 1386). Psychological empowerment in the relationship between organizational empowering and job satisfaction can\'t play a mediating role, because empowering has a strong and direct effect on job satisfaction (Cheng, 2009). According to Haddad Alawi (1386), tacit knowledge is inherently personal. It has a direct relationship with the skills and it is field-centered. In addition, tacit knowledge has a practical orientation with an emphasis on practical learning, applied learning and practical intelligence.\r\nRESEARCH METHODOLOGY\r\nThe present study is a correlation study and it is an applied research. The population of the study: Include all employees of Mazandaran province\'s physical education departments. The population was 316 patients of which, 173 patients were randomly selected as the sample.\r\nIn this study, the main assessment tool is the questionnaire.\r\n1. Empowering questionnaire: Spritz empowerment questionnaire (1995) was used to measure the empowerment. This questionnaire consists of five components: a sense of significance, authority, competence, effectiveness and trust that was standardized in 1384 in Iran by Abdollahi.\r\n2. Madisch tacit knowledge transfer questionnaire: Madisch tacit knowledge transfer questionnaire was used to measure the transmission of tacit knowledge, which consists of five components: altruism, conscientiousness, courtesy, sportsmanship, and civic virtue. The scale of both questionnaires is Likert-type. In this study, validity of the questionnaires was approved by using the sport and governmental experts\' opinions and reliability of the questionnaires obtained respectively 0.85 and 0.92 through Cronbach\'s alpha coefficient.\r\nRESULTS\r\nThe results of the first sub-hypothesis indicate that there is a significant positive correlation between tacit knowledge transfer and the ability of employees in decision making (r = 0.43). In other words, tacit knowledge transfer has an essential role in the ability of employees in decision making in province\'s physical education departments and the more the transfer of tacit knowledge increases; the more the ability of decision making by employees will increase. The results of the second sub-hypothesis suggest that there is a positive and significant relationship between tacit knowledge transfer and accepting responsibility among employees in implementation of decisions. In other words, the transfer of tacit knowledge plays an essential role in accepting responsibility among employees in implementation of decisions and the more the transfer of tacit knowledge increases, the more the responsibility acceptation among employees in implementation of decisions will increase. Results also show a significant positive relationship between tacit knowledge transfer and access to related tools for decision making and implementation in the studied population. This means that, the transfer of tacit knowledge plays an essential role in employees access to related tools for decision making and implementation in the physical education departments and the more the transfer of tacit knowledge increases, the more the employees access to related tools for decision making and implementation will increase. \r\n \r\n\r\n\r\n\r\n Amini, Imanzadeh, Rahmanian, Afravi, Bay and Sedaghat 211\r\n \r\nOn the other hand, the relationship between tacit knowledge transfer and acceptance of responsibility for the consequences of employees\' decision is positive and significant. In other words, the transfer of tacit knowledge plays an essential role in employees\' responsibility for the consequences of decisions in Mazandaran\'s physical education departments and it is predicted that the more the transfer of tacit knowledge increases, the more employees\' responsibility for the consequences of the decision will increase.\r\nThe results of the main hypothesis show that the correlation coefficient is equal to 6.0 and this indicates that, in general, there is a positive and significant relationship between the transfer of tacit knowledge and sense of empowerment among employees. In other words, the transfer of tacit knowledge plays an essential role in the sense of employee empowerment in the studied physical education departments and the more transfer of tacit knowledge increases, the more the sense of employee empowerment will increase.\r\n','Hamid Amini, Reza Imanzadeh, Mohsen Rahmanian, Nader Afravi, Moslem Bay and Mahdi Sedaghat (2014).The Role of Tacit Knowledge Transfer in Empowering the Employees of Physical Education Departments. Biological Forum – An International Journal 6(2): 208-212.\r\n '),(4568,'120','Studies on Diversity of Soil Micro- Arthropods Fauna in Sajnekhali Wild Life Sanctuary, Sundarbans, West Bengal','G.P. Mandal','36 GP MANDAL.pdf','',1,'The ecological studies of this investigation were based on the sample survey of two sites in Sajnekhali Wild Life Sanctuary in South 24 Parganas district of West Bengal from April, 2011 to March, 2013. The major invertebrate faunal groups recorded during study were Collembola, Diplura, Acarina, Hymenoptera and Isopoda. Collembola is the most dominant group belonging to 10 species and 9 genera under 6 families, followed 6 species under 5 genera of 4 families of Acarina, 2 species under 2 families of Diplura, 2 species of Hymenoptera and one species of Isopoda. The peak of population also varied from site to site being minimum in pre monsoon (summer months) and maximum population during monsoon. Soil moisture, organic carbon, also showed statistically significant correlation with the micro-arthropod population specially Collembolan fauna in two sites. The general characters of the soil of two sampling sites were Gangetic alluvium in nature and clay loam in texture. Salinity of surface soil is high during dry season but is reduced to tolerable limits in monsoon.','Micro-arthropods, edaphic factors, Sajnekhali, Sundarbans, West Bengal.','The micro-arthropods fauna of the experimental sites belong to 10 species of 9 genera of 6 families of Collembola, 6 species of 5 genera of Acarina, 2 species under 2 genera of Diplura, 2 species of Hymenoptera and single species of Isopoda. Soil factors like-temperature, moisture, hydrogen ion concentration, organic carbon and the roles of these edaphic factors of soil on the distribution of soil micro-arthropods fauna in the mangrove forest ecosystem were taken into consideration in the study.\r\nThe peak of population also varied from site to site being minimum in pre monsoon (summer months)and maximum population during monsoon (in the month of July, August and September).Soil factors viz, moisture, organic carbon, also showed significant positive correlation with the Collembolan population while negative correlation was observed in respect to temperature and pH.\r\n','Qualitative and quantitative studies of soil fauna, particularly the micro-arthropods from Indian soils began from the mid-sixties, although ecological studies were initiated much earlier (Trehan, 1945). However, major contributions have been from the agricultural fields, grasslands, abandoned fields and tea gardens, and very few from tropical rainforests. While the micro-arthropod studies from various forest floors included those of Banerjee(1972), Choudhuri(1961), Hazra(1978) and reports from tropical forest soil and litter micro-arthropods are limited to the works of Singh and Pillai (1975), Prabhoo(1976), Hazra(1976), Hazra and Bhattacharyya(2003), Mitra (1993), Guru et.al.(1988), Mandal et al. (2007, 2009, 2010 and 2011). From the above literature it was assumed that the research works on Soil-Biology have tried to assess the impact of different biotic and abiotic factors on the distribution and diversity of soil mesofauna with special reference to Collembola. In India, Soil micro-arthropods fauna from Mangrove forest ecosyetem studies are very scanty. Hazra and Sanyal(1996), Hazra, Dey and Mandal (2005) studied ecology of micro-arthropods fauna in periodically inundated newly emerged alluvial island on the river Hooghly, West Bengal. \r\nSo far no consolidated research has not been conducted on this part of the Sundarban. Hence, the present investigation is taken up to know the impact of major soil factors on the distribution of soil micro-arthropods and specially the collembolan fauna. The relationship between the collembolan species and the soil parameters has also been analyzed statistically. \r\nMATERIALS AND METHODS \r\nSoil samples were collected at random at the rate of 3 samples per plot (5 meter square) every three month (Quarterly) during April, 2011 to March, 2013. Samples were drawn by using of a stainless steel corer (inner cross-section diameter 8.5 sq./cm) from a depth of 5 cm. Separate soil samples units (500 gram) were taken from each site (2 packet from each site) for collection of collembolan and estimation of soil parameters like- moisture, pH, organic carbon etc. were kept immediately in sterile polythene packet in 4ºC in the laboratory for estimations of soil parameters.\r\nA total of 96 sample units of core and 64 samples units of packet soil were collected and examined during the study period. All the samples collected were immediately transferred to polythene packets and labelled, taking as much as possible to prevent loss of moisture. The labelled samples were brought to the laboratory for extraction within 24 hours of their collection. \r\n \r\n\r\nExtraction of Soil Micro-Arthropod Fauna\r\nExtraction of soil samples were carried out by ‘Expedition Funnel Apparatus’ modified by Macfadyen (1953) with a 40-watt bulbs for providing heat and light. The extraction period varied from 36 to 72 hours depending upon the moisture content of the soil sample.\r\nAnalysis of Edaphic Factors\r\nSoil samples dried in a hot air oven at about 105ºC for further bacterial action (some sample was kept separately for the estimation of soil moisture) were then allowed to cool and stored in a desiccators and dried soil was passed through the 2 mm sieve, mixed and fractionated before analysis.\r\nTemperature: Soil-thermometer was put in use to record the temperature of the soil at 5cm depth and the temperature of air, one meter above ground level.\r\nMoisture: Moisture of the soil sample measured by the Moisture meter.\r\nHydrogen Ion Concentration (pH): pH of the soil was determined by the electronic pH meter.\r\nOrganic Carbon: Organic Carbon content of the soil was determined by ‘Rapid Titration Method’. \r\nRESULTS\r\nThe present investigation involves extraction of soil micro-arthropods fauna from the sampling plots of Sajnekhali Wild life Sanctuary as:\r\nSite: Sajnekhali Wild life Sanctuary, South 24 Pgs, West Bengal.\r\nLocation and Characteristic of sampling site: This locality was situated 100 meters from main entry gate of the core area of the sanctuary covered by fencing. The site is located at 22°07\'24.2\" North latitudes and 88°49\'45.8\" East longitudes. Soil was humid alluvial in nature and sandy silt in texture. Although the region is situated south of the Tropic of Cancer, the temperature is equable due to its proximity to the sea. Average annual maximum temperature is around 35°C. Average annual rainfall is 1920 mm. Average humidity is about 82% which is more or less uniform throughout the year. \r\nThe dominating mangroves are- Sundari (Heritiera fomes), Bain (Avicennia spp.), Passur (Xylocarpus mekongensis), Dhundul (Xylocarpus granatum), Golpata (Nypa fruiticans), Hental (Phoenix paludosa), Khalsi (Aegiceras corniculatum), Garjan (Rhizophora apicata), Garan (Ceriops decandra), Gnewa (Exocaria agallocha), Keora (Sonneratia apetala), Haragoja (Acanthus ilicifolius) and Dhanighas (Porterasia coarctata).The sampling site was maintained with coverage of litter of the fallen leaves and dried twigs of the above trees.\r\nSoil factors: Soils are alluvial, blackish brown in colour and sandy silt in texture. Salinity of surface soil is high during dry season but is reduced to tolerable limits because dilution by the leaching effects of rainwater. Mechanical analysis of soil showed maximum percentage of medium silt 36.4% and more or less equal percentage of fine sand and fine silt. During summer, soil moisture content was 27% in 2011 and 29.5% in 2012. Maximum moisture content in soil (35.5%) was recorded in July, 2011 and 34.5% in the same period of 2012. During summer, other soil factors such as temperature, pH and organic carbon were found 33.5ºC, 5.8, 1.3%; 34ºC, 5.6, 1.5%; in 2011 and 2012 respectively. Mean values of others revealed more or less identical characteristics (Table 1).\r\nSoil Fauna: The Collembolan fauna obtained from this site belonged to 10 species in 9 genera. Amongst them, the species Lepidocyrtus curvicollis was found most dominant and it was (22.5%) of the total fauna recorded from this site. The species Axelsonia nitida contributed (18.9%), Isotoma sp contributed (16.2%), Lepidocyrtus caeruleicornis contributed (12.4%), Sminthurides appendiculatus contributed (5.16%), Sinella curviseta contributed (5.5%) and Cyphoderus javanus contributed (4.14%). Population of other species from this site was numerically low and highly irregular in distribution pattern in the sampling site. Percentage of springtails was found maximum in July in two consecutive years, which coincided with the maximum concentration of soil factors like-moisture, organic carbon and other edaphic factors.\r\nAmong Acarina, 6 species under 5 genera areScheloribates bhaduri, Scheloribates indicus, Tectocepheus velatus, Hoplophorella sundarbanensis, Hoplophorella scapellata and Oppion orientalis comprising8.69%,7.28%, 5.43%, 4.12%, 3.86% and 2.17% respectively of total population.\r\nOther micro-arthropods group Lepidocampa bengalensis, Indjapyx indicus, Monomorium floricola, Monomorium destructor and Philoscia spp.constituting- 3.52%, 3.48%, 3.44%, 3.2% and 4.25% respectively.\r\nSeasonal changes: Seasonal changes of each predominant species of Collembola, Diplura, Acarina, Lepidocyrtus curvicollis, Lepidocyrtus caeruleicornis and Axelsonia nitida, Lepidocampa bengalensis and Hoplophorella sundarbanensis obtained from this site revealed that had reached at its peak in July in both the years, while Isotoma sp and Scheloribates indicus showed maximum in January, 2011 but 2012 the peak was shifted to October. It is apparently seen that, predominant forms of soil micro-arthropods obtained from this site exhibited an irregular trend of fluctuation being minimum in summer months, slightly higher in winter months and higher in monsoon months. In this field, the population peak of other genera/ species varied among the years as well as month of observation due to their irregular occurrence.\r\nSTATISTICAL ANALYSIS OF DATA\r\nThe statistical analysis of the complex soil faunal communities has been conducted to show the relationship between the soil factors and Collembola. The application of Linear Correlation was undertaken in the present study involving the data of soil factors and collembolan population densities of soil separately for each site. All the analysis has been carried out by using MINITAB statistical software.\r\nLinear Correlation\r\nThe correlation coefficient (‘r’ value) of each variable (i.e. total population of Collembola and four edaphic factors (temperature, moisture, pH and organic carbon) on each other in individual site were shown (Table 2). The correlation revealed identical relationship between the biotic variables in four sites. The correlation coefficient data mentioned in the above table broadly indicated that the edaphic factors like moisture, organic carbon with the biotic variables showed strong positive correlation in almost four sites. The correlation coefficient (‘r’ value) in respect of other variables like - temperature and pH with the biotic variables was found to be negatively significant correlated in all four sampling sites with the population densities of Collembola. \r\nDISCUSSION\r\nThe ecological studies of this investigation were based on the sample survey from Sajnekhali Wild Life Sanctuary, Sundarban Biosphere Reserve, South 24 Parganas, West Bengal from April, 2011 to March, 2013. Salinity of surface soil is high during dry season but is reduced to tolerable limits because dilution by the leaching effects of rainwater. The general natures of the soil of two sampling sites were more or less identical. Among soil micro-arthropod fauna, Collembola belonged to 10 species under 9 genera of 6 families followed 6 species under 5 genera of 4 families of Acarina, 2 species under 2 families of Diplura, 2 species of Hymenoptera and one species of Isopoda. The predominant genera were Lepidocyrtus (2 species), Axelsonia (1 species), Isotoma (1 species), Hoplophorella (2 species), Scheloribates (2 species), Cyphoderus (1 species), Entomobrya (1 species), Sinella (1 species), Sminthurides (1 species) Lobella (1 species), Monomorium (2species) Hypogastrura (1 species) mentioned in order of dominance. \r\n \r\n\r\n\r\n\r\n Mandal 216\r\n \r\nIn the present study, the total population of soil micro-arthropod fauna showed numerical variation with the change of season with minimum in summer months and maximum in post monsoon. Moreover, a general pattern of fluctuation with maximum in monsoon and minimum in pre-monsoon (April), which in agree with Hazra and Choudhuri (1990) and Hazraand Sanyal (1996). \r\nDuring this investigation, the predominant species Lepidocyrtus curvicollis, Lepidocyrtus caeruleicornis, Axelsonia nitida, Scheloribates bhaduri, Hoplophorella sundarbanensis and Monomorium floricola attained maximum population in July and two species, Cyphoderus javanus and Sminthurides appendiculatus in January. Entomobrya sp. reached its peak in October followed by in March while Sinella curviseta and appeared largest population in the month of August. Individuals of other species like, Hypogastrura sp, Lobella maxillaris were numerically low in summer months with a very irregular trend of fluctuation and these were altogether absent in many of the sampling months. Thus, most of the predominant forms considered here were found to exhibit a single peak in a year. \r\nThe role of edaphic factors on the distribution and population pattern of different groups of soil inhabiting micro fauna and flora might be assumed that the factors so far analyzed in this study exerted both significant and insignificant effects either singly or in cumulative way depending on the nature of the site. The population was maximum when the factors like moisture, organic carbon were significantly high and other conditions were optimum.\r\nOf the edaphic factors studied, temperature showed wide variation with the change of season, ranging between 25°C and 34.5°C (Table1). Collembolan population indicated negative correlation with temperature in both sites which confirm the study of Pal et al (1992) and Guru et al (1988). Takeda (1978) also found both positive and negative correlation between temperature and different species of springtails. \r\nMoisture content was recorded maximum (36.4%) and minimum (26.2%) respectively and thus a range of variation was observed in two different seasons. The value of correlation of collembola with moisture was highly significant. The content of organic carbon varied between 1.3% and 2.6% and exhibited strong positive correlations with the population densities of Collembola. (Table 2). \r\nAnother important variable affecting the population fluctuation of soil biota was the soil pH which read minimum of 5.2 and maximum of 6.4 (Table 1). However, its average value did not differ much and was more or less neutral. The statistical analysis showed strong negative correlation with the population densities of Collembola and pH which agreed with the findings of Agrell (1941), Bellinger (1954) and Pal et al.,(1992). It may be concluded from the present investigation that the organic carbon and moisture are key factors which controlling fluctuations of soil micro-arthropods population. However, the factors considered here and other biotic and abiotic factors not considered at present may also play an important role for the seasonal variation and fluctuation of collembolan fauna.\r\n','G.P. Mandal (2014). Studies on Diversity of Soil Micro- Arthropods Fauna in Sajnekhali Wild Life Sanctuary, Sundarbans, West Bengal. Biological Forum – An International Journal 6(2): 213-217.'),(4569,'120','Effects of Treated Municipal Wastewater on Growth and Yield of Maize (Zea mays)','Sayed Roholla Mousavi and Mahmood Shahsavari','39 SAYED ROHOLLA MOUSAVI AND MAHMOOD SHAHSAVARI.pdf','',1,'The experiment was based on a randomized block design (RCBD) with four replicates, and it was conducted in a field experiment in Aligoudarz (Iran). Irrigation was applied with five different methods as treatments: T1: irrigation with clean water during whole growing period (control); T2: 75% clean water and 25% TMWW; T3: 50% clean water and 50% TMWW; T4: 25% clean water and 75% TMWW; T5: irrigation with TMWW during whole growing period. Results showed that irrigation with treated municipal wastewater lead to significant effect in all characters than control. The highest stem height and diameter were observed in irrigation with 25% well water and 75% TMWW, which was statistically different than other treatments, also similar results were obtained in other growth parameters such as: flag leaf length, flag leaf width, ear diameter and ear length. Number of grain per row, number of row per ear and number of grain per ear significantly increased with use of wastewater. Maximum 1000-seed weight was 303.8g that obtained with use of 75% wastewater. Maximum yield was obtained in T4 that was 25% more than control, According to the results, no significant difference was found between treatments T4 and T5.','Irrigation, maize, municipal wastewater, water quality.','Irrigation with treated municipal wastewater increased growth, yield and yield components of maize due to due to available nutrients. Maximum growth rate and yield of maize was obtained in irrigation with well water and treated municipal wastewater integrating than the irrigation with well water and wastewater during whole growing period. Treated municipal wastewater can have a positive influence on yield and growth of maize at all stages due to rich nutrients and organic matter. According to the results the use of combined wastewater and well water suggested for get maximum yield.','Water deficiency is one of the main factors for limiting sustainable agricultural development in most arid and semi arid regions. Nowadays farmers needs to treated municipal wastewater as a source of irrigation water than each other time, Due to increased population and increased need for food, reduced water resources and the need to water transfer in long distances. Treated municipal wastewater is used for reducing water deficiency for irrigation, increase water use efficiency and reduce water resources pollution. In arid and semiarid climates due to the severe pressure on non-renewable water resources, few years drought and the increasing urbanization, optimum use of all available water resources including treated municipal wastewater is considered (Galavi et al., 2010; Fonseca et al., 2007; Mohammad et al., 2007; Jimenez, 2005; Friedel et al., 2000). Recently reuse of treated municipal wastewater as a non-conventional water resources is considered which can compensate the water deficiency partly. Considering that wastewater is contains elements that needed for plant nutrition, determine the correct method of using wastewater is very important to reduce the adverse effects associated with wastewater irrigation, and obtain optimum yield (Mousavi et al., 2013; Wang et al., 2007). Also need to be assessed other outcomes in irrigated with wastewater including elements changes \r\n\r\n\r\nin soil and plant, heavy metals accumulation and other pollutants (Zavadi, 2009; Al-Zoubi et al., 2008; Pollice et al., 2004). Maize (Zea mays) is one of the most important crops that have an important role in providing food and protein for humans and livestock directly and indirectly. Maize is cultivated for grain and silage consumption, Also, about 5% of maize production is used for industrial products. It is, possible to obtained high yields of crops without deterioration of their quality by using treated wastewater for the irrigation of crops. In most of the crops that irrigated with treated municipal wastewater yield increased and need to use of chemical fertilizer reduced, and as a result, production costs decreased (Mousavi et al., 2013; Esmailiyan et al., 2008; Jimenez, 2005; Najafi et al., 2003). Alizadeh et al., (2001) reported that growth and yield of corn statistically affected with using reclaimed municipal wastewater, in this study, maximum grain and biomass were obtained of the treatment that was irrigated by wastewater Marten et al., (1985) in a research on yield of corn and canary grass have perceived that irrigation with wastewater has significant increase on digestibility and dry matter of corn in comparison with canary grass, although amount of protein in canary grass is more than corn. Day and Tucker (1997) in the survey on sorghum found that leaf width, grain yield and postponed the sorghum maturity increased in irrigation with wastewater. \r\n\r\n Mousavi and Shahsavari 229\r\nIrrigation with wastewater increased yield of forage sorghum compared with irrigation with well water, wastewater irrigation also increased height, leaves green color and accelerate flowering (Jenkins et al., 1994). Cllap et al., (1987) studied the effects of treated municipal wastewater on maize yield and forage plants in the United States, and concluded that effect of wastewater irrigation in terms of plant needs to nutrients can be competitive with application of chemical fertilizer as ammonium nitrate. Wastewater is contains large amounts of nutrients can be used in agriculture and increase the yield of crops. Increasing amounts of organic matter and soil nutrients under the effects of wastewater application increased plant growth with positive influence on soil physical, chemical, and biological properties (Mousavi et al., 2013; Munir and Ayadi, 2005; Wong et al., 1998; Monte and Esousa, 1992). Al-Zoubi et al., (2008) in a field study, examined effect of sewage sludge on the yield of wheat, maize and peas, reported that wheat yield was not affected in sewage sludge application, but the peas and maize yields significantly increased compared with control by sewage sludge. The object of this study was to evaluate the use of treated municipal wastewater for agricultural purposes, and its effect on maize growth and yield, also evaluating an appropriate method for use of wastewater and well water combined to achieve optimum yield, reducing the accumulation of pollution in the soil and finally, the sustainable use of water resources in the agriculture. \r\nMATERIAL AND METHODS\r\nA. Description of the project site\r\nThe experiment was conducted during the 2009 growing season at an experimental field in Aligoudarz, Iran, located in 49º45´ longitude and 33º25´ latitude and, 2024m Altitude from sea level with a cold and semi-arid climate. Annual average temperature in research area was 13.6°C and average rainfall was 407mm. Physical and chemical properties of soil in experimental field were presented in Table 1. Experimental design was a randomized complete blocks with four replicates. The irrigation treatments were: well water in all growing stages as a control treatment (T1); 75% well water and 25% treated municipal wastewater (T2); 50% well water and 50% treated municipal wastewater (T3); 25% well water and 75% treated municipal wastewater (T4); irrigation with treated municipal wastewater in all growing stages (T5). The irrigation treatments are shown in Table 2. Quality of well water and treated wastewater are shown in table 3. Sowing was done as rows in 75cm wide rows with 20cm spacing within-rows with five rows per plot by Single Cross 704 cultivar, (Single Cross 704 was chosen because this cultivar had superiority relative to other cultivar in the last few years in experimental region). There was 2m distance between plots to prevent of water leakage. All operations were done regularly during the growing season. \r\nB. Crop sampling and calculation\r\nGrowth characteristics including stem height, stem diameter, length and width of flag leaf were determined at the end of staminate inflorescence emergence stage. Yield components such as: number of row per ear, number of grain per rows, 1000-seed weight, ear diameter, and ear length were measured after of physiology maturity by selected five plants of each experimental plot randomly. Number of grain per ear \r\n\r\nwas obtained by multiplying the number of row per ear on number of grain per rows. Grain yield were determined by eliminating the marginal effect after drying. \r\nC. Statistical analysis\r\nData analysis was done by using MSTATC software. The ANOVA test was performed to determine significant (p≤0.01) treatment effect and the mean values were adjudged by DMRT (P = 0.01) method.\r\n\r\nPb 0.001 0.012\r\n\r\n \r\nRESULTS AND DISCUSSION\r\nA. Effects of treated municipal wastewater on growth characteristics\r\nResults showed that, growth characteristics were significantly affected by treated municipal wastewater treatments (Table 4). Stem height, stem diameter and length and width of flag leaf increased with treated municipal wastewater treatments. Highest stem height was in irrigation with 75% wastewater, and the lowest was obtained in control treatment (irrigation with well water during whole growing period). Maximum stem diameter (19.25mm) was in T4 (irrigation with 25% well water and 75% treated municipal wastewater), stem diameter in irrigation with treated municipal wastewater during whole growing period (T5) was less than irrigation with 25% well water and 75% treated municipal wastewater (T4), but this reduction was not significant. Stem diameter in T5 was statistically more than T1 and T2, and had no significant difference with T3 and T4. Highest flag leaf length was obtained with irrigation with 100% treated municipal wastewater (37.55cm) and 25% well water and 75% treated municipal wastewater (37.50cm) that was approximately 12.7% more than control. Highest and lowest flag leaf width was found in 75% treated municipal wastewater and control respectively (Table 6). According to the results use of wastewater increased all measured characters compared with control. Soil structure, permeability and fertility increased by irrigation with treated municipal wastewater due to the available macro and micro nutrients and organic matter (Cllap et al., 1987). \r\n \r\n\r\n\r\n Mousavi and Shahsavari 231\r\n \r\nSoil physical properties such as: hydraulic conductivity, aggregate stability, ventilation, porosity, water holding capacity increased with organic matter available in wastewater. Plant growth increased with use of wastewater due to improved nutrients ability to absorb. Moazzam-Khan et al., (2009) in the survey found that sunflower growth characteristics were substantially increased by treated wastewater. \r\nGalavi et al., (2009) reported that the existence of specific nitrogen and potassium in wastewater improved the plant growth, cell reproduction and plant resistance and eventually stem diameter increased in sorghum. In several studies a positive effect of treated municipal wastewater has been reported on the growth of different plants (Al-Zoubi et al., 2008; Fonseca et al., 2007; Fonseca et al., 2005; Alizadeh et al., 2001; Al-Jaloud et al., 1995).\r\nB. Effects of treated municipal wastewater on yield and yield components\r\nYield and yield components of maize were significantly affected by irrigation with treated municipal wastewater (Table 5). Comparison of means showed that ear length and diameter increased in irrigation with treated municipal wastewater. Highest and lowest ear length and diameter was in irrigation with 25% well water and 75% treated municipal wastewater and control respectively (Table 6). Result showed that number of row per ear significantly increased with wastewater, as maximum number of row per ear was 13.25 that obtained with use of 75% wastewater minimum number of row per ear (9.75) was in control treatment. Number of row per ear in irrigation with 100% treated municipal wastewater was significantly less than irrigation with 25% well water and 75% treated municipal wastewater; it seems that, this trait decreased with too much use of wastewater. Number of grain per row and grain per ear significantly affected by wastewater treatments, maximum number of grain per row (37.75) and grain per ear (499.8) was obtained with use of 75% treated municipal wastewater, that statistically were more than other treatments. Comparison of means showed that 1000-seed weight increased by wastewater treatments. Use of treated municipal wastewater increased grain weight in compare with control treatment, so that the highest 1000-seed weight (303.8g) was obtained irrigation with 75% treated municipal wastewater and the lowest (209.5g) was obtained with irrigation with well water during whole growing period (control) (Table 6). Grain yield significantly affected by treated municipal wastewater treatments (Table 5), as significantly increased in irrigation treatments with treated municipal wastewater. Maximum yield was 8488 kg/ha-1 that obtained in T4; it was 25% more than control (Table 6). Use of 100% treated municipal wastewater (irrigation with wastewater during whole growing period) had no significantly difference with use of 75% treated municipal wastewater (Table 6). This suggests that high use of wastewater not only had no positive effect on yield, even yield may be reduced. Soil physical properties and its fertility were improved with use of wastewater and thus yield increased by improving the nutrients ability to absorb. Wastewater is rich in nutrients such as nitrogen, phosphorus, potassium, calcium, zinc and iron, and is an important nutritional source for plants (Mousavi et al., 2013; Zavadil, 2009; Tarrason et al., 2008; Wong et al., 1998; Cllap et al., 1987). Hussain et al., (1996) investigated the effect of treated wastewater irrigation and nitrogen on yield and nitrogen use efficiency in wheat and conclude that yield and nitrogen use efficiency in the plots were irrigated with treated wastewater, were much higher than the plots that irrigated with well water only. Valmis et al., (1985) found that barley grain yield increased by adding certain amounts of wastewater to the soil, but then too, had no effect on grain yield. \r\n','Sayed Roholla Mousavi and Mahmood Shahsavari (2014). Effects of Treated Municipal Wastewater on Growth and Yield of Maize (Zea mays).Biological Forum – An International Journal 6(2): 228-233.'),(4570,'120','First record of the ant genus Emeryopone Forel, 1912 \r\n(Hymenoptera: Formicidae: Ponerinae) from Vietnam\r\n','Dai Dac Nguyen, Ngoc Thanh Phan, Minh Phuong Nguyen and Lien Thi Phuong Nguyen','40 Dai Dac Nguyen, Ngoc Thanh Phan, Minh Phuong Nguyenand Lien Thi Phuong Nguyen.pdf','',1,'The ant genus Emeryopone of the subfamily Ponerinae (Formicidae) is recorded from Me Linh, Vinh Phuc province in the northern part of Vietnam for the first time with one species, namely Emeryopone buttelreepeni Forel, 1912. Genus Emeryopone is a small group, with only 5 species distributed in Asia. They are E. buttelreepeni Forel, 1912 from Sumatra, E. franzi (Baroni Urbani, 1975) from Nepal, E. loebli (Baroni Urbani, 1975) from Israel, E. melaina Xu, 1998 from China, and E. narendrani Varghese, 2006 from India. The record of this genus from Vietnam fills a gap inthe distribution pattern of the genus in Asia.','Emeryopone, Formicidae, Ponerinae, Northern Part, Vietnam.','The ant genus Emeryopone of the subfamily Ponerinae (Formicidae) is recorded from Me Linh, Vinh Phuc province in the northern part of Vietnam for the first time with one species, namely Emeryopone buttelreepeni Forel, 1912. Genus Emeryopone is a small group, with only 5 species distributed in Asia. They are E. buttelreepeni Forel, 1912 from Sumatra, E. franzi (Baroni Urbani, 1975) from Nepal, E. loebli (Baroni Urbani, 1975) from Israel, E. melaina Xu, 1998 from China, and E. narendrani Varghese, 2006 from India. The record of this genus from Vietnam fills a gap inthe distribution pattern of the genus in Asia.','The ant genus Emeryopone of the subfamily Ponerinae was described by Forel (1912), monotypic for E. buttelreepeni Forel, 1912 from Sumatra of Indonesia. Up to now, four species were also described by several authors, they were Emeryopone franzi (Baroni Urbani, 1975) from Nepal, E. loebli (Baroni Urbani, 1975) from Israel, E. melaina, Xu, 1998 from southern China, and E. narendrani Varghese, 2006 from southern India. A key to all species of the genus was provided by Varghese (2006).\r\nIn this paper, the first record of the genus Emeryopone from Vietnam is documented, representing by one species named E. buttelreepeni Forel. Redescription of the species with its figure is also presented.\r\nMATERIALS AND METHODS\r\nFour study sites were chosen at Me Linh Biodiversity Station in northern part of Vietnam, including natural evergreen raining forest, bamboo forest, planted forest under acacia shade and acacia forest. Fifteen pitfall traps with 4% of formalin were placed at each study site from May 2012 to June 2013. Specimens captured in the trapswere collected after 10 days and two times per month (the traps were left empty for 10 days,between two times of collecting). Nearly 9.000 ant specimens were collected by this method, including only one specimen, a female of the genus Emeryopone. This female was collected on 25.VI.2012, and deposited in Institute of Ecology and Biological Resources.\r\nDrawings were made with the aid of a drawing tube installed on the stereoscopic dissecting microscope. The terminology follows Jaitrong and Yamane (2012) and Varghese (2006).\r\nThe abbreviations used for the measurements and indices are as follows:\r\nHL: Maximum head length in full-face view, measured from the anterior clypeal margin to the midpoint of a line drawn across the posterior margin of the head.\r\nHW:Maximum head width in full-face view.\r\nML: Mesosomal length measured from the point at which the pronotum meets the cervical shield to the posterior margin of metapleuron in profile.\r\nPL: Petiole length measured from the anterior margin of the peduncle to the posteriormost point of tergite.\r\nSL: Scape length, excluding the basal constriction and condylar bulb.\r\nTL: Total length, roughly measured from the anterior margin of head to the tip of gaster in stretched specimens.\r\nEL: Eye length, length of compound eye measured in the same view as HL.\r\nSI: Scape index, SL/HW x 100.\r\nCI: Cephalic index, HW/HL x 100.\r\nANTML: Antennomere length, length of the ultimate antennomere.\r\nANTMW: Antennomere width, width of the ultimate antennomere.\r\n \r\nPRNW: Pronotum width, width of the pronotum at the dorso-lateral margins.\r\nPTW: Petiole width, maximum width of the petiole in dorsal view.\r\nPTH: Petiole height, maximum height of the petiole, measured in lateral view at right angles to petiole length.\r\nANTMI: Antennomere index ANTMW/ANTML x 100.\r\nPTWI: Petiole width index PTW/PL x 100.\r\nRESULT AND DISCUSSION\r\nGenus Emeryopone Forel, 1912\r\nEmeryopone Forel, 1912, Rev. Sui. Zool. 20: 761, genus.\r\nType species: Emeryopone buttelreepeni Forel, 1912, by original designation and monotypy.\r\nDiagnosis: This genus was separated from related genera by the combination of the following characteristics (Forel, 1912): Small to medium size, mandibles long with 5-6 teeth, apical tooth unusually long, and broadly curved. Antennae 12 segments with 3-segmented club. Eyes formed from one to ten ommatidia. Frontal lobes present. Alitrunk with well developed sutures. Petiole squamose with a well formed subpetiolar process. Hind tibia with a single pectinate spur. Body generally sculptures.\r\nForel (1912) described the Emeryopone buttelreepeni from Sumatra, Indonesia. None of the specimens of this species was seen then. Here we give the redescription of the species for further study.\r\nEmeryopone buttelreepeni Forel, 1912(Fig. 1)\r\nMeasurements. HL 0.95mm; HW 0.78mm; EL 0.08mm; SL 0.76mm; ML 1.35mm; PL 0.44mm; TL 4.45mm; ANTML 0.33mm; ANTMW 0.13mm; PRNW 0.6mm; PTW 0.49mm; PTH 0.69mm; CI 82.1; SI 97.4; PTWI 111; ANTMI 39.3.\r\nBody length: TL = 4.45mm. Head in full-face view clearly longer than wide (CI = 82.1mm) (excluding mandibles), with anterior portion narrower than posterior portion. Antennal scape (SL = 0.76mm) reached more than 2/3 length of the head. Frontal carina with margin elevated dorsally, brown translucent, forming a half circle above antennal sockets. Frontal lobe almost fully-covered antennal socket. Clypeus prominent, with small convex triangular at anterior margin of clypeus. Mandibles long and sickle, masticatory margin armed with 5 long slender spiniform teeth and gradually increasing in size from base. Eye relatively small (EL = 0.08mm) in relation to size of head and placed towards the anterior lateral corners of head, more towards the base of mandibles. Antennal 12 segments, antennal flagellomere II, X, XI each longer than wide; antennal flagellomere III, IV, V each as wide as long, antennal flagellomere VI, VII, VIII, IX each as long as wide; terminal flagellomere 2.5 times longer than wide (ANTMI = 39.3).\r\n \r\n Nguyen, Phan, Nguyen and Nguyen 236\r\n \r\nMesosoma almost flat in appearance in lateral view weakly convex dorsally, suture between mesopleuron and metapleuron present. Metanotal groove almost absent. Metapleural gland bulla larger, its maximum diameter about 4.6 times as long as distance between propodeal spiracle and metapleural gland bulla. Promesonotal suture clearly visible. Petiole wider than long (PTWI = 111), prominent, lacking spines and separated from both alitrunk and gaster, subpetiole process rectangular with near margin a translucent spot in the middle, anterior margin convex. Gaster long and rounded posteriorly, smoothly haired and sparse distributed. Each tibia of hind leg with a single distinctly pectinate spur. Body shiny reddish brown or light brown to dark brown in color. Mandibles, antennae, legs and pygidium paler. Body with long sparse yellowish hairs. Those on head shorter, hairs denser on antenna. Legs with thicker hairs.\r\n','Dai Dac Nguyen, Ngoc Thanh Phan, Minh Phuong Nguyen and Lien Thi Phuong Nguyen (2014). First record of the ant genus Emeryopone Forel, 1912 (Hymenoptera: Formicidae: Ponerinae) from Vietnam. Biological Forum – An International Journal 6(2): 234-236. \r\n'),(4571,'120','Humour Plants Mentioned in Holy Quran and Iranian Traditional Medicine','Ebrahim Azarpour, Maral Moraditochaee and Hamid Reza Bozorgi','41 EBRAHIM AZARPOUR, HAMID REZA BOZORGI AND MARAL MORADITOCHAEE.pdf','',1,'Since most of the plants are rich in vitamins, minerals, and salts they often have significant effects on human health; hence, continuous consumption of plants, because of water, sugar, fat, protein, vitamins, and etc. plays a significant role in prevention and treatment of many diseases. In this regard, Holy Quran, the book of healing and mercy, has dragged human attention toward certain plants such as Manna of hedysarum, Onion or Cepa, Garlic, Black mustard, Camphor, Cucumber, Pumpkin or Gourd or Calabasse, Fig, Lentil, Banana, Royal basil or Sweet basil, Olive, Data plam or Edible date, Pomegranata, Toothbrush tree or Mustard tree, Manna Tree or French Tamarisk, Grape, Ginger and Nabak tree. Certainly, there are physical and mental benefits to humans, in this notice of Knowing God. The current study aimed to evaluate therapeutic properties of Quranic plants and their effects on health promotion. After evaluating traditional medicine books and modern medical findings about the properties of Quranic plants and their effects, it was concluded that consumption of any one of these plants in daily diet, plays significant role in health promotion. The four humors are the basis of The Iranian Traditional Medicine and human health is achieved when there is a balance in the quality and quantity of humors while the imbalances of them will lead to diseases. Aim of present study is review humour plants mentioned in Holy Quran and Iranian traditional medicine.','Holy Quran, Humour, Plants, Iranian Traditional Medicine.','Ever since the dawn of mankind, we have sought to understand nature and our place in it. In this quest for our purpose of life many people have turned to religion. Most religions are based on books claimed by their followers to be divinely inspired, without any proof. Islam is different because it is based upon reason and proof. There are clear signs that the book of Islam, the Quran, is the word of God. There are many reasons that support this claim: There are scientific and historical facts found in the Quran which were unknown to the people at the time, and have only been discovered recently. The Quran came in a unique style of language that cannot be replicated, this is known as the ‘Inimitability of the Quran’. There are predictions made in the Quran. The manner temperaments manifested with the semantic domain of eating and food in a certain culture can be understood through a discussion of dietetic and culinary concepts of a particular culture. What people in a society and culture eat or like to eat may become an evaluation of their emotional temperaments and therefore an implication for portrayal of their specific cultural models. Aim of present study is review humour plants mentioned in Holy Quran and Iranian traditional medicine. \r\n\r\n','Diseases and other related ailments are predictable in life and have led man to discover ways by which they could be treated. Plants have always been a successful source of remedy from nature. Such practice is as old as human existence and forms an integral part of traditional medicine. The term medicinal is applied to a plant indicates that it contains a substance or substances which modulate beneficially the physiology of sick mammals and that it has been used by man for that purpose (Andersen et al., 1991). According to world health organization (WHO) Much of the world’s population (about 70-80%) still rely on plant-derived medicines for the health care. This is especially true in developing countries (Beverly et al., 2011; Rivera et al., 2013). Use of herbal remedies is also widespread in many industrialized nations and numerous pharmaceuticals are either based on or derived from plant sources (Mans, 2013). \r\nTraditional Iranian Medicine (TIM) or Persian Medicine consists of the sum total of all the knowledge and practices used in diagnosis, prevention and elimination of diseases in Persia from ancient times to present. It is based entirely on practical experience and observations passed down from generation to generation. Traditional medicine has the advantage of being considered as part of the culture therefore, bypassing cultural issues that may affect the practice of medicine. On the other hand, it can be used in conjunction with and as an aid to the conventional medicine. Development and promotion of traditional medicine could be considered as respect and honor to the culture and heritage of the people all around the world (Rezaeizadeh et al., 2009; Moradi et al., 2013). According to Traditional Iranian Medicine (TIM), health preservation and disease prevention are prior to disease treatment. To get this aim, there are recommendations in TIM such as appropriate physical activity (Siahpoosh et al., 2012) and appropriate nutrition which are introduced as two parts of six principles for healthiness (Rezaeizadeh et al., 2009). Today, these two factors are very important for health preservation and disease prevention too (Delavar et al., 2011). \r\nRepresenting viewpoints of Ibn Sina (Avicenna), one of the greatest Iranian medical scientists about nutrition is the purpose of this study in order to find out the best quality of nutrition because nutrition is one of the most important things to survive man, which is effective in all aspects of his/her life. Therefore, health and disease of an individual, society, and generations depend on it. In addition, focusing on nutrition has been the main issue in medical sciences in an-cient medicine references. Quality of nutrition and the type of food have played a substantial role in organizing medical science (Sholden, and Cohen, 1992). According to Avi-cenna’s viewpoint, there are eight important and effective principles in relation with nutrition to be more useful in order to preserve health and pre-vent from disease include: 1- The quality of nutrition should be according to his/her temperament (Mizaj) and in general, he/she should eat some foods in balance with his/her temperament. 2. Since digestive system is strong in winter and weak in summer, individuals should eat nutritive foods in winter and foods which are easy to digestion in summer. 3. The type and quality of foods which are eaten should be in accordance with personal activi-ties and efforts. For instance, athletes should eat more nutritive foods. 4. It is necessary to consider digestive system power, i.e. anyone whose digestive system is strong can eat foods which are difficult to digestion and conversely, anyone whose diges-tive system is weak can eat foods which are easy to digestion. 5. Middle-age people should eat less than before. 6. Healthy nutrition and habits should be ob-served in various regions and climates. 7. The sequence of eating foods should be based on its digestion time. Some foods are digested early and the others are digested lately. Thus, foods should be eaten in proper time both in order to preserve nutrients of foods and to prevent from food degradation within sto-mach. 8- Subsequent meal should be eaten after digest-ing previous meal because eating on undi-gested food has been known as the most harmful thing for healthiness (Avicenna, 2005).\r\nDesirable health is impossible without good nutrition, and Allah has addressed us on eating foods in 118 verses (Salarvand and Pournia, 2014). Desirable health is impossible without good nutrition (Salarvand and Pournia, 2014). Selection of foods naturally reflects the aspects of lifestyle, culture, religion, diet, and health (Nakyinsige et al., 2015). Nutrition is not only a means of preventing diseases, but plays an important role in improving the health of individuals and communities (Salarvand and Pournia, 2014). Diets have experienced considerable qualitative and quantitative changes with different rates all over the world (Shetty, 2013). Therefore, proper nutrition interventions should be applied to improve the human health (Ipchi Sheshgelani et al., 2001). On the other hand, in Islam, the Quran and the Sunnah are the main sources of the rules and principles that guide the lives of Muslims and offer policies and recommendations as responses to the concurrent health and social problems (Kamarulzaman and Saifuddeen, 2010). Muslims consider the divine rules in every aspect of life. For the followers of Islam, there is a complete code of nutritional rules in the Holy Quran (Khattak et al., 2011). The recommendations on nutrition presented by Islam not only lead to physical health, but guarantee the mental health. One of the most important determinants of health is following the health teachings of Islam on eating and drinking (Avari et al., 2007). According to the increasing capacity of religion in families residing in Islamic societies, some Ad experts can see ads from new angle and this new angle is completely more different than current ad approach. Commercial ads in new perspective based on religious and human beliefs may attract the religious and believed consumers’ attention to advertised products (Rahmani et al., 2013). The plants which have been named in Quran attached a lot of importance to their usages and properties and also regarding to featuring every event and occurrence accompanied with the name of the plant. Since the name of the plant mixed with the words of Allah, it manifests precious and importance to some sort (Espidkar and Hassani, 2013). Aim of present study is review humour plants mentioned in Holy Quran and Iranian traditional medicine.\r\nMATERIALS AND METHODS\r\nIn this study, the qualitative research method of content analysis on humors with respect to Plants Mentioned in Holy Quran was performed. In this regard, the content of books in Iranian Traditional Medicine has been studied and the Iranian Traditional Medicine comments have been reviewed and analyzed.\r\nRESULTS AND DISCUSSION\r\nHumorism, or humoralism, is a system of medicine detailing the makeup and workings of the human body, adopted by Ancient Greek and Roman physicians and philosophers, positing that an excess or deficiency of any of four distinct bodily fluids in a person - known as humors or humours - directly influences their temperament and health. The humoralist system of medicine is highly individualistic, for each individual patient was said to have their own unique humoral composition. Moreover, it resembled a holistic approach to medicine as the links between mental and physical processes were emphasized by this framework.\r\nFrom Hippocrates onward, the humoral theory was adopted by Greek, Roman and Persian physicians, and became the most commonly held view of the human body among European physicians until the advent of modern medical research in the nineteenth century. The four humors of Hippocratic medicine are black bile (Melancholic), yellow bile (Choleric), phlegm (Phlegmatic), and blood (Sanguine), and each corresponds to one of the traditional four temperaments. The four humors with their corresponding elements, body substances, seasons, organs, tastes, colors, qualities and characteristics of personality showed that in Fig. 1.\r\nAccording to holy Quran, 19 plants like (Manna of hedysarum, Onion or Cepa, Garlic, Black mustard, Camphor, Cucumber, Pumpkin or Gourd or Calabasse, Lentil, Banana, Royal basil or Sweet basil, Olive, Data plam or Edible date, Pomegranata, Toothbrush tree or Mustard tree, Manna Tree or French Tamarisk, Grape, Ginger and Nabak tree) are gifts and heavenly plants of God. Nineteen fruits and plants name have been mentioned in the holy book of Moslem (Azarpour et al., 2014a; Azarpour et al., 2014b) (Table 1). \r\nEssentially, this theory holds that the human body is filled with four basic substances, called humors, which are in balance when a person is healthy. All diseases and disabilities supposedly resulted from an excess or deficit of one of these four humors. These deficits were thought to be caused by vapors inhaled or absorbed by the body. The four humors are black bile, yellow bile, phlegm, and blood. Greeks and Romans, and the later Muslim and Western European medical establishments that adopted and adapted classical medical philosophy, believed that each of these humors would wax and wane in the body, depending on diet and activity. When a patient was suffering from a surplus or imbalance of one of these four fluids, then said patients\' personality and or physical health could be negatively affected. This theory was closely related to the theory of the four elements: earth, fire, water and air; earth predominantly present in the black bile, fire in the yellow bile, water in the phlegm, and all four elements present in the blood. Humour plants mentioned in Holy Quran in Table 1.\r\n','Ebrahim Azarpour, Maral Moraditochaee and Hamid Reza Bozorgi (2014). Humour Plants Mentioned in Holy Quran and Iranian Traditional Medicine. Biological Forum – An International Journal 6(2): 237-241.'),(4572,'120','Nutritional and Biochemical Compounds of Quranic Plants','Ebrahim Azarpour, Maral Moraditochaee and Hamid Reza Bozorgi','42 EBRAHIM AZARPOUR, HAMID REZA BOZORGI AND MARAL MORADITOCHAEE.pdf','',1,'Moslems believe that Islam is the most perfect religion and Quran the most perfect book that explains all human needs with the best style and there isn\'t any defect in Islam and Quran. The Holy Quran says; let man consider his food. Therefore we have decided to investigate the nutritional roles of those Quranic plants stated in Quran and their biochemical compounds. In this regard, Holy Quran, the book of healing and mercy, has dragged human attention toward certain plants such as Alhagi maurorum, Allium cepa, Allium sativum, Brassica nigra, Cinamoumon Camphor, Cucumis sativus, Cucurbita pepo, Ficus carica, Lens culinaris Medic, Musa sapientum, Ocimum basilicum, Olea europaea, Phoenix dactylifera, Punica granatum, Salvadora persica, Tamarix aphylla, Vitis vinifera, Zingiber officinale and Ziziphus spina_christi. Results in this research showed that most of the Quranic plants are rich in vitamins, minerals, and salts they often have significant effects on human health; hence, continuous consumption of Quranic plants, because of water, sugar, fat, protein, vitamins, and etc plays a significant role in prevention and treatment of many diseases. Plants are an essential component of the universe. Human beings have used those as medicine from the very beginning of time. According to holy Quran, plants are gifts and heavenly fruits of God. 19 plants name have been mentioned in the holy book of Moslem. ','Holy Quran, Plants, Compounds.','Since the teachings of revelation consider the indicators of physical, spiritual, mental and social health in nutrition. It is essential to World Policymakers of fed to attend Islamic approach of Nutrition to be achieved true health. Nature has blessed human being with plenty of resources to meet their needs. He has been given options to utilize those resources rightly or wrongly. Food is one of the biggest needs of human life and its selection and processing varies between different regions, religions and cultures. Religion is the most powerful factor influencing the dietary patterns and habits. \r\nResults in this research showed that most of the Quranic plants are rich in vitamins, minerals, and salts they often have significant effects on human health; hence, continuous consumption of Quranic plants, because of water, sugar, fat, protein, vitamins, and etc plays a significant role in prevention and treatment of many diseases. Plants are an essential component of the universe. Human beings have used those as medicine from the very beginning of time. According to holy Quran, plants are gifts and heavenly fruits of God. 19 plants name have been mentioned in the holy book of Moslem.\r\n','The Quran is regarded as both the spiritual and behavioral guidance for all Muslims (Aboul-Enein et al., 2014, Mahjoob et al., 2014; Jamilian, 2012; Abdel Khalek, 2011). Food affects human life, culture, and economy. Food leads to three branches of evidence based science including food science (preparation, preservation, safety and quality), nutrition (efficacy of foods in promoting human health) and dietetics (optimum management of nutrition). Inappropriate food habit and unbalanced lifestyle are the main reasons of many common diseases all over the world. In the developing countries, shortage of foods causes hunger, whereas in the developed and rich world improper eating is the problem (Shafiur Rahman, 2011). Desirable health is impossible without good nutrition, and Allah has addressed us on eating foods in 118 verses (Salarvand and Pournia, 2014). Desirable health is impossible without good nutrition (Marwat et al., 2009). Selection of foods naturally reflects the aspects of lifestyle, culture, religion, diet, and health (Nakyinsige et al., 2012). Nutrition is not only a means of preventing diseases, but plays an important role in improving the health of individuals and communities (Marwat et al., 2009). Diets have experienced considerable qualitative and quantitative changes with different rates all over the world (Shetty, 2013). Therefore, proper nutrition interventions should be applied to improve the human health (Ipchi Sheshgelani et al., 2001). On the other hand, in Islam, the Quran and the Sunnah are the main sources of the rules and principles that guide the lives of Muslims and offer policies and recommendations as responses to the concurrent health and social problems (Kamarulzaman and Saifuddeen, 2010). Muslims consider the divine rules in every aspect of life. For the followers of Islam, there is a complete code of nutritional rules in the Holy Quran (Khattak et al., 2011). The recommendations on nutrition presented by Islam not only lead to physical health, but guarantee the mental health. One of the most important determinants of health is following the health teachings of Islam on eating and drinking (Avari et al., 2007). Awareness of the nutritional rules is essential for dietitians in different cultures (Kocturk, 2002). \r\n \r\n\r\nAlthough some aspects of Islam have been studied in researches in a limited way, and the surprising role of this divine religion in promoting mental health, health-promoting behaviors, longevity, etc. has been known, Muslims’ knowledge and practice of these nutritional rules have not been investigated sufficiently (Poorheidar and Soleimani, 2012). On the other hand, bad nutritional habits and their consequences have increased in societies, particularly among young people. \r\nIn addition, in the present world, the share of scientific production by the Muslim elites in the international arena is very small, and in the Islamic sciences it is even smaller (Mosavi Moghaddam, 2008). With the WHO recommending that Islamic countries provide booklets that contain Quranicverses connected to mental health (Mottaghi et al., 2011), opportunities of introducing similar booklets connected to healthy lifestyles, behaviors, and practices seem viable. A close attention to Quranic verses can have a signiﬁcant inﬂuence on the correction and maintenance of healthy lifestyles and the prevention of chronic diseases. A reﬂection of these Quranic verses could serve as a health-promoting guide for culturally competent health educators and public health practitioners in diverse populations. Faith-based health promotion interventions and programs could serve as a strong inﬂuence in shaping health, behaviors, and well-being particularly in Muslim communities. Quranic verses that advocate healthy lifestyle habits could play in delivering effective health-promoting messages and recommendation for adopting a healthy lifestyle. It is for these reasons that the discoveries and revelations in the Quran that identify health-promoting behaviors and advocate a healthy lifestyle should not be ignored and should be given due consideration in the relationship between religion and health (Aboul-Enein et al., 2014). According to Holy Quran, 19 plants like (Manna of hedysarum, Onion or Cepa, Garlic, Black mustard, Camphor, Cucumber, Pumpkin or Gourd or Calabasse, Lentil, Banana, Royal basil or Sweet basil, Olive, Data plam or Edible date, Pomegranate, Toothbrush tree or Mustard tree, Manna Tree or French Tamarisk, Grape, Ginger and Nabak tree) are gifts and heavenly plants of God. Nineteen fruits and plants name have been mentioned in the Holy book of Moslem. The plant species in the Quran are: Alhagi maurorum, Allium cepa, Allium sativum, Brassica nigra, Cinamoumon camphor, Cucumis sativus, Cucurbita pepo, Ficus carica, Lens culinaris Medic, Musa sapientum, Ocimum basilicum, Olea europaea, Phoenix dactylifera, Punica granatum, Salvadora persica, Tamarix aphylla, Vitis vinifera, Zingiber officinale and Ziziphus spina_christi. A phytochemical screening of these fruits and plants belonging to 16 families (Alliaceae, Arecaceae, Brassicaceae, Cucurbitaceae, Fabaceae, Lamiaceae, Lauraceae, Moracee, Musaceae, Oleaceae, Punicaceae, Rhamnaceae, Salvadoraceae, Tamaricaceae, Vitaceae and Zingiberaceae) was carried out (Azarpour et al., 2014a, Azarpour et al., 2014b). Purpose of present research is review nutritional and biochemical compounds of Quranic plants.\r\nMATERIALS AND METHODS\r\nIslam considers the great value of excellence in health. The Quran is introduced as the Guidance and health book. In this way; in the health care it provides different guidelines. One of the guidelines of the Quran in numerous verses is plant nutritional advices. In this regard, Holy Quran, the book of healing and mercy, has dragged human attention toward certain plants such as Manna of hedysarum, Onion or Cepa, Garlic, Black mustard, Camphor, Cucumber, Pumpkin or Gourd or Calabasse, Lentil, Banana, Royal basil or Sweet basil, Olive, Data plam or Edible date, Pomegranata, Toothbrush tree or Mustard tree, Manna Tree or French Tamarisk, Grape, Ginger and Nabak tree. In this study, the qualitative research method of content analysis on plant nutritional with respect to plants mentioned in Holy Quran was performed. Then, the collected materials were analyzed.\r\nRESULTS AND DISCUSSION\r\nWith 28 verifiable verses identified in the Quran, a significant emphasis places proper diet and nutrition as part of a healthy lifestyle. Many of these verses contained a focus on fruit consumption with a progressive focus on plant-based dietary patterns and the importance of limiting caloric intake by avoiding ‘‘excess’’. The current body of evidence supports diet rich in plant-based foods and their strong association with reduced risks of major chronic diseases (Martin et al., 2013; Krzyzanowska et al., 2010). The food guide pyramid has been introduced in order to health maintenance and prevention of atherosclerosis, cancer, pulmonary disease, mind and behavior disorder in 1992. In this pyramid all foodstuff had been divided into 5 main groups; cereals, vegetables, fruits, dairy products, meat and a free group including simple carbohydrates and fat.\r\n \r\n\r\n\r\nIn 2001 professor Willet made main modification in food guide pyramid, to improve its failure with emphasizing on reducing of obesity and chronic diseases, which have known most health problem now. The aim of this modified guide pyramid was showing the right way of individuals toward consuming healthy food to achieve health and prevention of chronic disorders. Food guide pyramid emphasized in equivalent on foodstuff consuming, exercise and keeping standard weight. To achieve this condition this pyramid recommend no lavish in eating and drinking. Moslems believe that Islam is the most perfect religion and Qur\'an the most perfect book that explains all human needs with the best style and there isn\'t any defect in Islam and Qur\'an. The Holy Qur\'an says; let man consider his food. Therefore we have decided to investigate the nutritional roles of those foods stated in Qur\'an and their biochemical compounds. Almost all diet that is known as complete food today, mentioned in Qur\'an and their advantages explained occasionally. A number of verses justified some differences that there were about food consumption and a few explained advantages and disadvantages of certain nutrients and drinks such as wine. However according to our knowledge about nutritional roles of food in Qur\'an it could be concluded their importance in health and prevention of disorders. Nevertheless, Islam has stressed on health and ordered to save it as a deposit, so the foods mentioned in Qur\'an might have a lot of advantages. The word “science”, which implies knowledge and cognition, is a sacred and confirmable word and it can lead people to perfection. Therefore, we cannot confine this word to a very limited part of the branches of science. Each of these branches can lead people to sublimity and transcendence; the study of the Qur’an can be regarded as a religious science. Possessing a solid knowledge of science can be a part of religiosity and this is the reason why the religious people should necessarily have knowledge and awareness. Science that does not lead to religiosity cannot be considered a real and true science and a religious person who does not have any knowledge of science cannot be considered a real and true believer. The Qur’an promotes knowledge and science, which can promote goodness and thus religiosity. Therefore, a book such as the Qur’an, which disseminates science and learning, should itself be scientific. The Qur’an’s content includes extensive scientific facts that are consistent with all scientific principles. Therefore, the fact that the Qur’an mentions these scientific principles, however briefly, when it was recorded fourteen centuries ago only serves to solidify believers’ faith in the Qur’an. It is very important for people today to know that Islam is a religion based on science, knowledge, cognition and a sound mind; it advocates reason and argument and fights unwise dogmatism and prejudice. Such a view of Islam will increase real knowledge and a true love for this divine religion and thus will be effective in inspiring people to act in accordance with its lofty doctrines and teachings (Asadi Karam et al., 2009). Nutrients and phyto-chemicals Compounds (per 100 grams foodstuff) in plants and fruits selected in Holy Quran shown in tables 1 and 2. The highest amount energy of plants and fruits mentioned in Holy Quran was reported for lentil (1477 kJ: 353 kcal). The lowest amount energy of plants and fruits mentioned in Holy Quran was reported for cucumber (65 kJ: 16 kcal). The highest amount carbohydrates of plants and fruits mentioned in Holy Quran was reported for palm (75.03 g). The lowest amount carbohydrates of plants and fruits mentioned in Holy Quran was reported for basil (2.65 g). The highest amount sugars of plants and fruits mentioned in Holy Quran was reported for palm (63.35 g). The lowest amount sugars of plants and fruits mentioned in Holy Quran was reported for olive (0.54 g). The highest amount dietary fiber of plants and fruits mentioned in Holy Quran was reported for fig (9.8 g). The lowest amount dietary fiber of plants and fruits mentioned in Holy Quran were reported for pumpkin and cucumber (0.5 g). The highest amount fat of plants and fruits mentioned in Holy Quran was reported for olive (15.32g). The lowest amount fat of plants and fruits mentioned in Holy Quran were reported for onion and pumpkin (0.1 g). The highest amount protein of plants and fruits mentioned in Holy Quran was reported for lentil (26 g). The lowest amount protein of plants and fruits mentioned in Holy Quran was reported for cucumber (0.65 g). The highest amount thiamine (B1) of plants and fruits mentioned in Holy Quran was reported for lentil (0.87 mg). The lowest amount thiamine (B1) of plants and fruits mentioned in Holy Quran was reported for ginger (0.025 mg). The highest amount riboflavin (B2) of plants and fruits mentioned in Holy Quran was reported for lentil (0.211 mg). The lowest amount riboflavin (B2) of plants and fruits mentioned in Holy Quran was reported for olive (0.007 mg). The highest amount Niacin (B3) of plants and fruits mentioned in Holy Quran was reported for lentil (2.605 mg). The lowest amount Niacin (B3) of plants and fruits mentioned in Holy Quran was reported for onion (0.116 mg). The highest amount pantothenic acid (B5) of plants and fruits mentioned in Holy Quran was reported for lentil (2.120mg). The lowest amount pantothenic acid (B5) of plants and fruits mentioned in Holy Quran was reported for grape (0.05mg). \r\nThe highest amount vitamin B6 of plants and fruits mentioned in Holy Quran was reported for garlic (1.235 mg). The lowest amount vitamin B6 of plants and fruits mentioned in Holy Quran was reported for olive (0.031 mg). The highest amount folate (B9) of plants and fruits mentioned in Holy Quran was reported for lentil (479 μg). The lowest amount folate (B9) of plants and fruits mentioned in Holy Quran was reported for grape (2 μg). The highest amount vitamin C of plants and fruits mentioned in Holy Quran was reported for garlic (31.2 mg). The lowest amount vitamin C of plants and fruits mentioned in Holy Quran was reported for palm (0.4 mg). The highest amount vitamin A of plants and fruits mentioned in Holy Quran was reported for pumpkin (426 μg). The lowest amount vitamin A of plants and fruits mentioned in Holy Quran was reported for palm (10 μg). The highest amount vitamin K of plants and fruits mentioned in Holy Quran was reported for basil (414.8 μg). The lowest amount vitamin K of plants and fruits mentioned in Holy Quran was reported for pumpkin (1.1 μg). The highest amount vitamin E of plants and fruits mentioned in Holy Quran was reported for olive (3.81 mg). The lowest amount vitamin E of plants and fruits mentioned in Holy Quran was reported for palm (0.05 mg). The highest amount calcium of plants and fruits mentioned in Holy Quran was reported for garlic (181 mg). The lowest amount calcium of plants and fruits mentioned in Holy Quran was reported for banana (8 mg). The highest amount iron of plants and fruits mentioned in Holy Quran was reported for lentil (7.54 mg). The lowest amount iron of plants and fruits mentioned in Holy Quran was reported for onion (0.21 mg). The highest amount magnesium of plants and fruits mentioned in Holy Quran was reported for lentil (122 mg). The lowest amount magnesium of plants and fruits mentioned in Holy Quran was reported for grape (7 mg). The highest amount manganese of plants and fruits mentioned in Holy Quran was reported for garlic (1.672 mg). The lowest amount manganese of plants and fruits mentioned in Holy Quran was reported for grape (0.071 mg). The highest amount phosphorus of plants and fruits mentioned in Holy Quran was reported for lentil (451 mg). The lowest amount phosphorus of plants and fruits mentioned in Holy Quran was reported for olive (4 mg). The highest amount potassium of plants and fruits mentioned in Holy Quran was reported for lentil (955 mg). The lowest amount potassium of plants and fruits mentioned in Holy Quran was reported for olive (42 mg). The highest amount zinc of plants and fruits mentioned in Holy Quran was reported for lentil (4.78 mg). The lowest amount zinc of plants and fruits mentioned in Holy Quran was reported for grape (0.07 mg). The highest amount sodium of plants and fruits mentioned in Holy Quran was reported for olive (1556 mg). The lowest amount sodium of plants and fruits mentioned in Holy Quran were reported for pumpkin and banana (1 mg). The highest amount water of plants and fruits mentioned in Holy Quran was reported for cucumber (95.23 g). The lowest amount water of plants and fruits mentioned in Holy Quran was reported for lentil (10.4 g). The highest amount fluoride of plants and fruits mentioned in Holy Quran was reported for grape (7.8 μg). The lowest amount fluoride of plants and fruits mentioned in Holy Quran were reported for pumpkin and onion (1.1 μg). The highest amount selenium of plants and fruits mentioned in Holy Quran was reported for grape (14.2 μg). Higher plants produce hundreds to thousands of diverse chemical compounds with different biological activities. Thus, they have been used in the treatment of various human diseases for thousands of years all over the world (Sekar, 2010). According to Holy Quran, believers are the most competent people to use divine blessings, such as clean foods. Centuries ago, Quran has mentioned the beneficial and antioxidant properties of many foodstuffs, and today scientists have found a part of them through many studies, it helps to realize the greatness of God and values of Islam, and surrender to God, and bow down to him. Finally, more consumption of these foodstuffs with antioxidant properties for health care is recommended (Ranjbar et al., 2013). Islam as the most complete heavenly religion pays special attention to the issue of realizing full rights in all commands that sets for the guidance and salvation of all human beings and has put its observance an emphatic duty and preconditions for the acceptance of righteous deeds. In other words, as someone became a Muslim, some rights and obligations are put on him relied upon this Muslim character and should attempt to do them (Kabiri and Qasemizade, 2013). Food is the essential requirement for human life. Human population has spread over the earth and its nutrient needs have been provided by nature through plants and animal resources distributed over the globe. Food habits vary among regions, religions and tribes. Food is one of the biggest needs of human life and its selection and processing varies between different regions, religions and cultures. Religion is the most powerful factor influencing the dietary patterns and habits (Qureshi et al., 2012). Shafaghat (2010) showed that all Quranic fruits and plants were found to be flavonoids bearing, 9 showed the presence of alkaloids, 10 tannins and 10 saponins. \r\n','Ebrahim Azarpour, Maral Moraditochaee and Hamid Reza Bozorgi (2014). Nutritional and Biochemical Compounds of Quranic Plants .Biological Forum – An International Journal 6(2): 242-248.'),(4573,'120','Taxonomical Study on Scorpions from Markazai Province, Iran','S. Aslan Faal and A. Bayrami','43 ASLAN AND BAYRAMI.pdf','',1,'Scorpions are predatory arthropod animals of the order Scorpiones within the class Arachnida. They have eight legs and are easily recognised by the pair of grasping pedipalps and the narrow, segmented tail. Markazi Province, the medieval Iraq-i Ajam, more recently Arak-is one of the 31 provinces of Iran and lies in western of Iran. There are limited studies of information scattered on Scorpions in Iran. In present investigation which has been carried out on scorpions in the Markazi province, different species of scorpions were identified and biological studies were carried out on them. The present research was done in different areas of this province and totally 53 scorpions were collected. According to scientific methods, the scorpions were captured then identified by used of identification key. In the present research, it was found that the species belong to two families, namely, Buthidae and Scorpionidae, sixgenera and six species. ','Taxonomy, Identification, Scorpions, Iran ','Scorpions are predatory arthropod animals of the order Scorpiones within the class Arachnida. They have eight legs and are easily recognised by the pair of grasping pedipalps and the narrow, segmented tail. Markazi Province, the medieval Iraq-i Ajam, more recently Arak-is one of the 31 provinces of Iran and lies in western of Iran. There are limited studies of information scattered on Scorpions in Iran. In present investigation which has been carried out on scorpions in the Markazi province, different species of scorpions were identified and biological studies were carried out on them. The present research was done in different areas of this province and totally 53 scorpions were collected. According to scientific methods, the scorpions were captured then identified by used of identification key. In the present research, it was found that the species belong to two families, namely, Buthidae and Scorpionidae, sixgenera and six species. ','The subfamily Scorpiopinae can be estimated as complex. Scorpiopinae was first proposed by Kraepelin (1905) as Scorpiopsinae, a subfamily of Vaejovidae. Lourenc¸o (1998)confirmed a previous decision by Stockwell (1989) about raising Scorpiopinae to family level. Subsequently, Soleglad and Sissom [4] downgraded Scorpiopidae to a subfamilyof Euscorpiidae, and grouped the Asian genera into the tribe Scorpiopini, and also included in this subfamily the North American genus Troglocormus (tribe Troglocormini). According to morphological assessments, the subfamily Scorpiopinae currently forms a monophyletic group within Euscorpiidae, and does not share any synapomorphies with North American Vaejovidae (2001). The tribe Scorpiopini includes six Asian genera, mainly from the Southern and South eastern regions of the continent. This composition is mainly due to Vachon (1980) who revised Scorpiops and described three new subgenera in addition to then ominotypical subgenus Scorpiops; Alloscorpiops, Euscorpiops, and Neoscorpiops. These four subgenera were laterelevated to generic rank by Lourenc¸o (1998), who added the monotypic genera Parascorpiops Banks, 1928, and Dasyscorpiops Vachon, 1974, bringing the total number of generato six. Soleglad and Sissom (2001) then supported the validity of Euscorpiops based on the position of chela trichobothrium Eb3 and the presence of an annular ring on the telson. Recently, Lourenc¸o (2013) divided the genus Alloscorpiops into two subgenera with the creation of the subgenus Laoscorpiops. Since most historical aspects around these decisions have been consistently synthesized by Lourenc¸o (2013)they will not be further discussed here.\r\nThere are limited studies of information scattered on Scorpions in Iran. The first study was done by Oliveir, that discus about black Scorpion of Kashan and named it crassicauda (1807). Thorell, 1876 by surveying Scorpions of natural history museum in Stockholm and Gothenburg named a new species from Iran as Buthusdoriae. Pocock, 1889, introduced Buthus phillipsi as a new Iranian species from natural history Museum British. Birulaya, 1896, described four species from Iran named: Orthochhrusme lanurus, Buthus eupeus, Buthus caucasicus and Prionurus crassicauda. He published his paper for Iranian Scorpions on 1905. Vachon, 1950 has introduced some Genus from Iran as Mesobuthus that is exclusive to Asia. He has reported Liobuthus kessleri first time from Iran and divide Scorpions to Families Buthidae and Scorpionidae in Iran (1966). In 1973, Vachon added a new Genus and Species to Iranian Scorpions name: Habibiella gaillardia. There is big lacuna in studying of Scorpions from different parts of Iran. In the present study the scorpions is described from Markazi Province of Iran.\r\nMETHODOLOGY\r\nThe Markazi province is approximately 29442 kilometer wide (Fig.1). Scorpions were collected (Fig. 2) randomly, fromdifferent parts of Markazi province (Arak, Tafresh,Saveh, Ashtiyan, Mahalat, Delijan, Khomein and Shazand) during the years 2007and 2008, and they were fixed separately in 75% Ethanol alcohol and labeled in different bottles (Fig.1). Samples were transferred tolaboratory for feature studies. In the Laboratory, taxonomical study, sexing and biometrical parameters were studied with the help of stereomicroscope (Olympus SZX9) and the keys suggested by Farzanpey (1987).\r\nRSULTS\r\nIn this study, six species of scorpions belonging to six genera and two families were identified. (Table 1). In this study, two families Buthidae, Scorpionidae and six genera namely Androctonus, Buthotus, Odontobuthus, Mesobuthus, Hemiscorpius and Scorpio were identified. Biometrical characters have been studied for each six species as tables 2, 3, 4, 5, 6 and 7. The figures 1, 2, 3, 4, 5 and 6 are related to species. \r\n \r\n\r\n','S. Aslan Faal and A. Bayrami (2014). Taxonomical Study on Scorpions from Markazai Province, Iran . Biological Forum – An International Journal 6(2): 249-253.'),(4574,'120','Effects of Ascorbic Acid Foliar Spraying and Nitrogen Fertilizer Management in Spring Cultivation of Quinoa (Chenopodium quinoa) in North of Iran','Ebrahim Azarpour, Hamid Reza Bozorgi and Maral Moraditochaee','44 MARAL MORADITOCHAEE.pdf','',1,'In order to study effects of ascorbic acid foliar spraying and nitrogen fertilizer management on yield and some attributes of Quinoa (Chenopodium quinoa) plant, an experiment in factorial format was conducted in randomized complete block design with 3 replicates in Lahijan city (Guilan province, north of Iran. Factors of experiment consist of ascorbic acid foliar spraying with 3 levels (a1: control (without ascorbic acid spraying), a2: 1500 mg/L, a3: 3000 mg/L) and nitrogen fertilizer with 5 levels (n1: control (0 kg/ha pure nitrogen), n2: 50 kg/ha, n3: 100 kg/ha, n4:150 kg/ha and n5: 200 kg/ha pure nitrogen from source of urea (46%)). Measured traits were grain yield, panicle weight, 1000 grain weight, plant height and stem diameter. The obtained results of this experiment showed that, the effect of ascorbic acid foliar spraying and also nitrogen fertilizer application on all studied traits was significant at 1% probability level. On the other hand, the interaction of ascorbic acid spraying × nitrogen fertilizer on grain yield and plant height was significant (p<0.01).','Ascorbic acid, Nitrogen, Chenopodium quinoa, Yield, North of Iran','With attention to obtained results of current study, the effect of ascorbic acid foliar spraying and also nitrogen fertilizer application on all studied traits was significant at 1% probability level. On the other hand, the interaction of ascorbic acid spraying × nitrogen fertilizer on grain yield and plant height was significant (p<0.01). ','Quinoa has been an important food grain source in the Andean region since 3000 b.c. (Tapia, 1982) and occupied a place of prominence in the Inca empire only next only to maize (Cusack, 1984). Quinoa is grown in a wide range of environments in the South American region (especially in and around the Andes), at latitudes from 20◦Nin Columbia to 40°S in Chile, and from sea level to an altitude of 3800 m (Risi and Galwey, 1989). The distribution starts from Narino to the Salares of southern Bolivia that includes countries like Ecuador, Peru and northern Argentina (Jujuy and Salta provinces) (Wilson, 1990). The Atacama Desert forms a break in the distribution of the crop, which continues further south into Chile (Bhargava et al., 2006).\r\nQuinoa is a gynomonoecious annual plant with an erect stem, and bears alternate leaves that are variously coloured due to the presence of betacyanins. The inflorescence is a panicle, 15–70 cm in length and rising from the top of the plant and in the axils of lower leaves. The fruit is an achene, comprising several layers, viz. perigonium, pericarp and episperm (Bhargava et al., 2006). \r\n\r\nAscorbic acid is an organic compound with antioxidant properties. The molecular formula of ascorbic acid is C6H8O6 with the molecular weight of 176.13. It is a white solid, but impure samples can appear yellowish. It dissolves well in water to give mildly acidic solutions. Ascorbic acid can be slightly dissolved in ethanol, but not in diethyl ether, chloroform, benzene, petroleum ether or lipid (Zhang, 2012). \r\nAscorbic acid plays role in plant growth and development, cell division, cell wall metabolism and cell expansion, shoot apical meristem formation, root development, photosynthesis, regulation of florescence and regulation of leaf senescence. Also, it is cofactors for enzyme activity, and effects on plant antioxidation capacity, heavy metal evacuation and detoxification and stress defense (Zhang, 2012).\r\nNitrogen (N) fertilizer use has played a significant role in increase of crop yield (Modhej et al., 2008). Nitrogen is one of the macronutrients that required by plants in comparatively larger amounts than other elements (Marschner, 1995). Nitrogen deficiency generally results in stunted growth and chlorotic leaves caused by poor assimilate formation that leads to premature flowering and shortening of the growth cycle (Lincoln and Edvardo, 2006). \r\n \r\n\r\nThe response of nitrogen application on growth, development and yield of quinoa genotypes were studied by Basra et al. (2014) They reported that, nitrogen level of 75 kgN/ha was proved to be best level for nitrogen supplementation of soil for quinoa growth and development to harvest maximum economic harvest under agro-ecological conditions of Faisalabad.\r\nThe aim of current study was investigating the influence of foliar application of ascorbic acid and different nitrogen fertilizer levels on yield and several attributes of quinoa plant in spring cultivation in north of Iran.\r\nMATERIALS AND METHODS\r\nIn order to study effects of ascorbic acid foliar spraying and nitrogen fertilizer management on yield and some attributes of Quinoa (Chenopodium quinoa) plant, an experiment in factorial format was conducted in randomized complete block design with 3 replicates \r\n\r\nin Lahijan city (Fig. 1) with 37°11\' N latitude and 50°0\' E longitude (Guilan province, north of Iran). Soil analysis results showed that (Table 1), the soil texture was loam and pH 7.5. Factors of experiment consist of ascorbic acid foliar spraying with 3 levels (a1: control (without ascorbic acid spraying), a2: 1500 mg/L, a3: 3000 mg/L) and nitrogen fertilizer with 5 levels (n1: control (0 kg/ha pure nitrogen), n2: 50 kg/ha, n3: 100 kg/ha, n4:150 kg/ha and n5: 200 kg/ha pure nitrogen from source of urea (46%)). Measured traits were grain yield, panicle weight, 1000 grain weight, plant height and stem diameter. Seeds were sown in pots at 21 March 2014. In each pot, one seed was planted. \r\nThe pots diameter was 27 cm and its depth was 29 cm. The data were analyzed using MSTATC software. Also, the figures were drawing by EXCEL software. The Duncan’s multiple range tests (DMRT) was used to compare the means at 5% of significant.\r\nRESULTS AND DISCUSSION\r\nA. Grain yield \r\nWith attention to results of data variance analysis table (Table 2), the effect of acid ascorbic foliar spraying and also nitrogen fertilizer application showed significant differences at 1% probability level on grain yield. On the other hand, the interaction effect of ascorbic acid foliar spraying × nitrogen fertilizer on grain yield was significant at 1% probability level (Table 2). \r\nResults showed that, with increasing concentration of ascorbic acid foliar spraying on plants the grain yield positively increased (Fig. 2). Between ascorbic acid spraying levels, the highest amount of grain yield was obtained from a3 treatment (3000 mg/L) with 25.89 g/plant. Also, the lowest grain yield with 14.16 g/plant was found from a1 treatment (control). Shehata et al., (2007) on bean; Rizwan et al. (2011) on rice; Meena et al. (2012) on Withania somnifera L.Dunal; Bakry et al. (2013) on wheat and Darvishan et al. (2014) on corn were reported same results about increasing of yield by ascorbic acid application. \r\n \r\n\r\nAccording to Basra et al. (2014), it can be concluded that quinoa is highly responsive to nitrogen fertilizer.\r\nAmong nitrogen fertilizer treatments, the maximum grain yield with 30.24 g/plant was recorded from n5 treatment (200 kgN/ha). On the other hand, the minimum grain yield between nitrogen treatments was recorded from n1 treatment (control) with 9.95 g/plant (Fig. 3). Similar results were obtained by Berti et al. (2000) and Basra et al. (2014).\r\nWith attention to interaction effect levels of ascorbic acid foliar spraying × nitrogen fertilizer on grain yield (Table 3), the highest amount of grain yield with 40.07 g/plant was obtained from a3n5 treatment (ascorbic acid with 3000 mg/L concentration × nitrogen fertilizer at 200 kgN/ha). The lowest grain yield with 6.73 g/plant was recorded from a1n1 treatment (without ascorbic acid and nitrogen usage).\r\nB. Panicle weight\r\nPanicle weight was significantly enhanced by ascorbic acid foliar spraying and nitrogen fertilizer usage (with 99% confidence coefficients) but interaction effect of ascorbic acid foliar spraying × nitrogen fertilizer was non significant on it (Table 2).\r\nWith regards to Fig. 4, increasing ascorbic acid concentration, positively increased the panicle weight. Between ascorbic acid spraying levels, the maximum panicle weight with 30.98 g/plant was obtained from a3 treatment (3000 mg/L). Also, the minimum panicle weight was recorded from control treatment with 16.75 g/plant. Similar results in rice and wheat were reported by Rizwan et al., (2011) and Bakry et al., (2013) respectively. \r\nBetween nitrogen levels, the highest panicle weight was recorded from 200 kgN/ha application with 34.69 g/plant. The lowest amount of this trait with 13.16 g/plant was recorded from control treatment (Fig. 5). Similar results were obtained by Basra et al., (2014).\r\nC. 1000 grain weight\r\nData presented in Table 2 showed that, the effect of ascorbic acid foliar spraying and nitrogen fertilizer treatments had significant differences in 1% probability level on 1000 grain weight. But interaction effect of ascorbic acid foliar spraying × nitrogen fertilizer was not significant on it.\r\nAmong the ascorbic acid spraying levels (Fig. 6), the highest 1000 grain weight was recorded from a3 treatment (3000 mg/L) with 2.667 g. On the other hand, the lowest 1000 grain weight with 2.327 g was obtained from control treatment. Similar results in corn was recorded by Darvishan et al., (2013).\r\nBetween the nitrogen fertilizer levels (Fig. 7), the maximum value of 1000 grain weight was recorded from n5 treatment with 2.854 g. On the other hand, the n4 treatment with 1000 grain weight of 2.713 g, placed in same statistically level with n5 treatment. Also, the lowest 1000 grain weight between nitrogen levels with 2.114 g was recorded from control treatment. The n2 treatment (50 kgN/ha) with 1000 grain weight of 2.204 statistically was placed in same level with control treatment. Similar results were obtained by Basra et al. (2014).\r\nD. Plant height\r\nA significant influence (p<0.01) was observed by usage of different ascorbic acid foliar spraying and nitrogen fertilizer treatments on plant height (Table 2). Also, the interaction effect of ascorbic acid foliar spraying × nitrogen fertilizer on plant height was significant (p<0.01).\r\nWith attention to Fig. 8, which showed ascorbic acid spraying treatments, the maximum plant height with 108.8 cm was recorded from a3 treatment (3000 mg/L). On the other hand, the lowest plant height with 87.66 cm was recorded from control treatment. The a2 treatment (1500 mg/L) with plant height of 88.89 cm was placed in same statistically level with control treatment. Abd El-Halim (1995) reported that foliar application of ascorbic acid on tomato plants significantly increased growth parameters (stem length, number of branches, leaves, flowers and fruit set as well as dry weight of shoot per plant) in comparison with control plants. El-Zohiri (2009); Khalil et al., (2010) on Ocimum basilicum; Abo-Hinna and Merza (2012) on potato; Abdelraouf and Ahmed (2013) on wheat and Ahmed Mayi et al., (2014) were reported same results about increasing the plant height affected by ascorbic acid application. \r\nWith attention to Fig. 9, between nitrogen fertilizer levels, the maximum plant height with 104.6 cm was recorded from 200 kgN/ha. Also, use of 150 and 100 kgN/ha respectively with plant height of 101.6 and 99.81 cm was placed in same statistically level with 200 kgN/ha. On the other hand, the lowest plant height with 84.21 cm was obtained from control treatment. The n2 treatment with plant height of 85.35 cm placed in same statistically level with control treatment. Similar results were obtained by Schulte et al., (2005); Shams (2011); Gomaa (2013) and Basra et al., (2014).\r\n \r\n\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\n Azarpour, Moraditochaee and Bozorgi 257\r\n \r\nWith regards to interaction effect levels of ascorbic acid foliar spraying × nitrogen fertilizer on plant height (Table 3), the highest amount of plant height with 123 cm was obtained from a3n5 treatment (ascorbic acid with 3000 mg/L concentration × nitrogen fertilizer at 200 kgN/ha). Also, the a3n4 and a3n3 treatments respectively with 120.8 and 119 cm were placed in same statistically level with a3n5 treatment. The lowest plant height with 80.69 cm was recorded from a1n1 treatment (without ascorbic acid and nitrogen fertilizer usage).\r\nE. Stem diameter\r\nResults of variance analysis (Table 2) indicated that there was a significant difference between ascorbic acid foliar spraying and nitrogen fertilizer treatments on stem diameter (with 99% confidence coefficients). But, interaction effect of ascorbic acid foliar spraying × nitrogen fertilizer on this trait was non significant. \r\nThe highest stem diameter between ascorbic acid foliar spraying levels was obtained from a3 treatment (3000 mg/L) with 9.54 mm. On the other hand, the lowest stem diameter was recorded from control treatment with value of 6.74 mm (Fig. 10).\r\nAmong the nitrogen fertilizer levels (Fig. 11), the maximum value of stem diameter was related to n5 treatment with 9.68 mm. on the other hand, the lowest stem diameter with 6.52 mm was recorded from control treatment. Also, the n2 treatment with stem diameter of 7.03 mm placed in same statistically level with control treatment. Similar results were obtained by Sa-nguansak (2004); Gomaa (2013) and Basra et al. (2014). \r\n','Ebrahim Azarpour, Hamid Reza Bozorgi and Maral Moraditochaee (2014). Effects of Ascorbic Acid Foliar Spraying and Nitrogen Fertilizer Management in Spring Cultivation of Quinoa (Chenopodium quinoa) in North of Iran. Biological Forum – An International Journal 6(2): 254-260. '),(4575,'120','New Records of Darkling Beetles (Tenebrionidae: Coleoptera)\r\n from India\r\n','V.D. Hegde and B. Lal ','45 V.D. HEGDE AND B. LAL.pdf','',1,'The identification of Darkling beetles of Himachal Pradesh revealed that the new records of 02 species under 02 genera and 02 tribes of 02 sub families not only to Himachal Pradesh, but also to India. ','New records, Darkling Beetles. ','The identification of Darkling beetles of Himachal Pradesh revealed that the new records of 02 species under 02 genera and 02 tribes of 02 sub families not only to Himachal Pradesh, but also to India. ','The family Tenebrionidae is the fifth largest family under the order Coleoptera containing more than 18,000 species in the world which exhibits an extraordinary wide range of superficial dissimilarity: the larvae on the other hand are strikingly uniform in character and representatives of the family are found in almost all the habitats viz; in rotten wood, under bark, stones and logs, feeding on decaying vegetation, in dung, seeds, cereals, fungi, roots and dead animal matter etc. These are usually black or brown, though some are grey and a few are marked with different bright colors have bead-like antennae, each with 11 segments; the eyes are notched; the mandibles are short, stout, each usually with a basal tooth; the coxae of the front legs are spherical, those of the hind legs are transverse; the tarsi of the front and middle legs each have 5 segments, while those of the hind legs have 4; and the 1st segment of each of the tarsi of the hind legs is always longer than the 2nd. The trochanter is of heteromerous type. Although there are some scattered reports on the Tenebrionidae (Coleoptera) fauna of the northern states (Masumoto and Schawaller, 2010, Schawaller, 1996, 2002, 2006, 2007a, 2007b and Schawaller and Ando 2006 and 2009) while studying the darkling beetles, occurrence of Uloma spinipes Kaszab, 1975 and Promethis granulata Kaszab, 1988 from different parts of Himachal Pradesh state constitutes the new records of those species not only from Himachal Pradesh but also from India.\r\nMATERIALS AND METHODS\r\nThe present paper is based on the identification of the material present in the National Zoological Collection and recent collections by different survey parties of Zoological survey of India. The material was sorted out, set pinned, identified and classified as per Bouchard et al (2005). The identification is mainly based on the differences in the morphological characters and the structure of the genitalia. \r\nRESULTS AND DISCUSSION\r\nThe paper contains the new records of 02 species under 02 genera and 02 tribes of 02 sub families not only to Himachal Pradesh, but also to India. Although there are some scattered reports on the Tenebrionidae (Coleoptera) fauna of the northern states (Masumoto and Schawaller, 2010, Schawaller, 1996, 2002, 2006, 2007a, 2007b and Schawaller and Ando 2006 and 2009) there is no report by Indian workers. Even though there are reports on the several species of Uloma and the genus Promethis, while studying the darkling beetles, occurrence of Uloma spinipes Kaszab, 1975 and Promethis granulata Kaszab, 1988 from different parts of Himachal Pradesh state constitutes the new records of those species not only from Himachal Pradesh but also from India. Further study may also reveal the occurrence of new species also. \r\nSYSTEMATIC ACCOUNT\r\nSubfamily: Tenebrioninae Latreille, 1802\r\nTribe : Ulomini Blanchard, 1845\r\nGenus : Uloma Dejean, 1821\r\nSpecies : spinipes Kaszab, 1975\r\nMaterial examined: 1 Ex. Himachal Pradesh, Chamba district, Dugli, 10.vii. 2014. V.D. Hegde and party coll.Reg. No. 20452/H4A; 1 Ex. Himachal Pradesh, Una district, Baduhi, 22.vii. 2014. K.K. Mahajan coll. Reg. No. 20453/H4A.\r\n Diagnostic characters: Body slightly brown, mentum with basolateral impressions, slightly excavated, dense setation on the lateral sides. Ligula is with or without sparse setae. Pronotum with distinct impression, punctuation laterally somewhat coarser, surface without micropunctation. Punctures of elytral rows somewhat broader than stripes, elytral interval slightly convex. Last visible sterniteun bordered, protibia with a longitudinal row of granules. Body length - 6.0mm.\r\nDistribution : INDIA: Himachal Pradesh (Chamba and Una districts).\r\nElsewhere: Bhutan.\r\nSubfamily: Stenochiinae Kirby, 1837 \r\nTribe : Cnodalonini Oken, 1843 \r\nGenus : Promethis Pascoe, 1869\r\nSpecies : granulata Kaszab, 1988\r\nMaterial examined: 1 Ex. Himachal Pradesh, Kinnaur district, Pooh, 20.ix. 1969, K.K. Mahajan coll. Reg. No. 20206/H4A.\r\nDiagnostic characters: Pronotum quadrangular, thickly punctate, lateral margins slightly bent, almost straight lined, antero-posterior margin slightly sinuous. Elytra with fine punctuation up to apex. The interspaces granulation fine and dense. Head finely puntate than the pronotum. Eye folding downwards. The frontal sutures transeverse, slightly bent. The basal segment of antenna thick, the antennal segments from 6th onwards broader than the proceeding one.Body length -20 mm.\r\nDistribution : INDIA: Himachal Pradesh ( Kinnaur district).\r\nElsewhere: Myanmar.\r\n','V.D. Hegde and B. Lal (2014). New Records of Darkling Beetles (Tenebrionidae: Coleoptera) from India. Biological Forum – An International Journal 6(2): 261-263.\r\n '),(4576,'120','Short Term Aerobic Training Improves Fasting Glucose and Beta Cell Function in Obese/Overweight Women','Farbod Maryam, Robat Sarpooshi Azam and Silakhory Fouzyeh','46 FARBOD MARYAM @ EIZADI.pdf','',1,'The objective of present study was to assess the effect of 6 weeks aerobic training on beta cell function and fasting glucose in adult obese/overweight women. For this purpose thirty healthy obese/overweight women aged 37.3 ± 6 years, body mass index (BMI) 32 ± 3 kg/m2 were divided into exercise or control groups by accidentally. Fasting blood samples were collected in order to measuring insulin and glucose before and after 6 weeks aerobic training in exercise group as well as control subjects. Glucose and insulin used to determine beta cell function. All anthropometrical markers were also measured in two mentioned occasions. BMI and body weigh were decreased by exercise training. Aerobic training was also resulted significant increase in beta cell function and significant decrease in fasting glucose. No differences were observed in all independent markers between two occasions in control subjects. Based on this data, it concluded that aerobic triaging even for short time can be improved glucose homeostasis and beta function in obese/overweight individuals.','Beta call function, Aerobic training, Obesity','The objective of present study was to assess the effect of 6 weeks aerobic training on beta cell function and fasting glucose in adult obese/overweight women. For this purpose thirty healthy obese/overweight women aged 37.3 ± 6 years, body mass index (BMI) 32 ± 3 kg/m2 were divided into exercise or control groups by accidentally. Fasting blood samples were collected in order to measuring insulin and glucose before and after 6 weeks aerobic training in exercise group as well as control subjects. Glucose and insulin used to determine beta cell function. All anthropometrical markers were also measured in two mentioned occasions. BMI and body weigh were decreased by exercise training. Aerobic training was also resulted significant increase in beta cell function and significant decrease in fasting glucose. No differences were observed in all independent markers between two occasions in control subjects. Based on this data, it concluded that aerobic triaging even for short time can be improved glucose homeostasis and beta function in obese/overweight individuals.','Obesity, as one of the most prominent non-communicable diseases, has come into focus of health science researchers. The increased risk of obesity and its consequences, along with the industrialization of societies and lifestyle changes, foregrounds the prevention and treatment of obesity as a major challenge for the health system. Studies have demonstrated a strong association between inflammatory markers, metabolic disorders, obesity and its related diseases such as Atherosclerosis, diabetes and metabolic syndrome [1]. In obese people, the disorder in secreting certain Adipocytokine and inflammatory factors has multiple functional effects on appetite control, energy balance, insulin sensitivity and lipid metabolism. The increasing prevalence of obesity, especially in developed countries is linked to certain diseases such as diabetes 2, hypertension, metabolic syndrome, Atherosclerosis, asthma and cardiovascular disease [2]. \r\nApart from genetic factors and overeating, inactivity and lack of exercise are the main causes of obesity and the related disorders. Besides, along with genetic and physical inactivity, obesity is the most important environmental factor underlying the syndrome of insulin resistance in a way that the loss of weight or reduction of body fat levels leads to both insulin balance and reduction of insulin resistance [3, 4]. However, factors that promote beta cell failure and diabetes in obese persons have not yet fully understood. The presence of Hyperglysymy and Hyperphagia in obese individuals, despite the presence of high insulin levels, indicates their resistance to this hormone [5].\r\nIt is quite obvious that the primary cause of diabetes type 2 is insulin resistance, and dysfunction of beta cells is second to the former one. Although some Asian studies have reported the beta-cell function as the primary factor in the pathogenesis of diabetes type 2 [6, 7], multiple risk factors for diabetes type 2 such as increased fat, decreased physical activity and the inactivity linked with increased insulin resistance or beta cell dysfunction develop with aging [8]. Longitudinal studies have shown that progression of damage due to beta-cell function in healthy people, especially obese people, is especially important in the prevalence of diabetes [9]. \r\nExercise has been introduced as a non-pharmacologic approach to reduce the prevalence of obesity and its complications. It is known that exercise alone will lead to an improvement in insulin sensitivity [10, 11]. As in some other studies, 6 to 9 months of aerobic exercise improved insulin action and insulin resistance in healthy older adults [12, 13]. But the effect of exercise on beta-cell function in adults or elderly people has been less studied. Hence, in this study, the effect of 6 weeks of aerobic training on beta-cell function has been evaluated in obese female adults.\r\nMETHOD AND METHODS\r\nThirty healthy obese/overweight women aged 37.3 ± 6 years, body weight 83 ± 7.8 kg and height 161 ± 6 cm were recruited for this study through local advertising. Subjects then divided into exercise (n=15) or control (n=15) group by randomly. This study assessed the effect of aerobic training program (6 weeks, 3 times weekly, 60-75% of maximal heart rate) on beta cell function and fasting glucose. After the nature of the study was explained in detail, informed consent was obtained from all participants.\r\nParticipants were inactive, non-smoker and non-pregnancy. All subjects were non-smokers and had not participated in regular exercise/diet programs for the preceding 6 months. The exclusion criteria were as follows: Patients with known history of acute or chronic respiratory infections, neuromuscular disease, and cardiopulmonary disease. Furthermore patients with overt diabetic were also excluded from the study. In addition, exclusion criteria included inability to exercise and supplementations that alter carbohydrate-fat metabolism.\r\nAll anthropometric measurements were made by the same trained general physician and under the supervision of the same pediatrician following standard protocols. Body weight and height were measured on the same day to the nearest 0.1 kg and the nearest 0.1 cm, respectively. Body mass index (BMI) was calculated by dividing body mass (kg) by height in meters squared (m2). Waist circumference and hip circumference were measured in the most condensed part using a non-elastic cloth meter. Percentage body fat was measured using body composition monitor (OMRON, Finland).\r\nPre and post training of fasting glucose and serum insulin were measured after an overnight fat at two occasions. Glucose was determined by the oxidase method. Insulin was also determined by ELISA method. Depending of the values of insulin and glucose Beta cell function (HOMA-BF) was calculated using the HOMA Calculator computer program [14]. Aerobic program lasted 6 weeks, 3 times per weeks. Each exercise session lasted 45-60 min at 60-75 percent of maximal heart rate. Exercise intensity increased graduately form first to last exercise sessions. Each exercise test started by warm up (5-10 min), walking or running on treadmill with no slope and cool up at the end. \r\nA. Statistical analysis\r\nData were analyzed by computer using the Statistical Package for Social Sciences (SPSS) for Windows, version 15.0.\r\nNormal distribution of data was analyzed by the Kolmogorov-Smirnov normality test. The comparisons between the measurements of the parametric parameters were determined by paired and unpaired samples t test. A pH value less than 0.05 was considered statistically significant.\r\nRESULTS\r\nAs mentioned previous, the effect of 6 weeks aerobic exercise on Beta cell function was investigated in present study. We also stated that all participants had an inactive lifestyle before study. No significant differences were found in anthropometrical and clinical markers at baseline. Anthropometric and clinical characteristics of the study participants in the exercise and control groups are shown in Table 1.\r\nThe main finding of the present study was a significant increase in beta-cell function in response to an exercise program. In a sense, 6 weeks of aerobic exercise three times a week within the range of 60 to 70 percent of maximum heart beat led to a significant increase in beta-cell function in obese female adults who had previously an inactive life style. The significant increase in beta-cell function in response to exercise came along with a significant reduction in fasting glucose in obese women.\r\nWhile obesity, especially visceral obesity, has been introduced as an important risk factor in the incidence of diabetes type 2, the molecular mechanisms responsible for the spread of the disease in young people are still not fully understood. Sedentary, overweight, and obese people gradually become insulin-resistant but are often able to maintain normal glucose levels by compensatory response of increasing insulin secretion from the pancreas. Yet, the increase of insulin secretion from pancreatic beta cells for compensating insulin resistance leads, in the long run, to the reduction of the mass and function of these cells [15]. The study of non-diabetic obese insulin-resistant subjects has shown that insulin resistance is compensated by increasing insulin secretion from pancreatic beta cells [16] and also by increased beta-cell function [17]. Nonetheless, the adjustment of pancreatic beta cells for compensating for insulin resistance is not constant but a short-term adjustment, in a way that increased insulin secretion for long periods as a compensation for insulin resistance leads to the inability of these cells to secrete enough insulin [18]. For example, there is a reduction of 40 to 60 percent of beta cell mass in diabetic patients compared to that in non-diabetic people [18]. \r\nSome studies have indicated that regular physical activity reduces the secretion of insulin by its stimulators [19]; However, some other studies have suggested that long-term exercise increases glucose-dependent insulin secretion in humans and animal models suffering from diabetes type 2 [20]. As for beta-cell function, in response to short or long-term training programs, although few studies have been conducted on non-diabetic obese populations but some studies on diabetes type 2 in obese people suggest an improved beta-cell function in response to exercise [21]. In this regard, the findings of a study on short-term training exercise showed that 7 sessions of exercise led to improvements in insulin sensitivity associated with increased beta-cell function in elderly people with impaired glucose tolerance [22].\r\nIncreased levels of free fatty acids, triglycerides Citozolic or hyperglysymic associated with obesity and insulin resistance, severely affects the function of beta cells [23, 24], and their improvement in response to weight loss is a potential description for improvement of beta-cell function and insulin sensitivity. However, some researchers have reported that improvement of beta-cell function may possibly be affected by factors independent of weight loss [25]. In this regard, some studies have reported the improvement of beta-cell function in response to weight loss in those suffering from diabetes type 2 [26, 27] but their response to weight loss resultant from diet or exercise in obese non-diabetes patients have less been studied. In the present study, a significant increase in beta-cell function in obese female subjects was associated with a significant reduction in body weight. In other words, a 6-week aerobic exercise, in addition to a significant reduction in body weight, led to a significant reduction of BMI and body fat percentage. However, in a separate study, the improvement of beta-cell function and insulin sensitivity by training were associated with no change in body weight, fasting glucose, lipid profile, Catecholamines and some Adipocain such as leptin and Adiponectin [22].\r\n','Farbod Maryam, Robat Sarpooshi Azam and Silakhory Fouzyeh (2014).Short Term Aerobic Training Improves Fasting Glucose and Beta Cell Function in Obese/Overweight Women. Biological Forum – An International Journal 6(2): 264-267.'),(4577,'120','Effect of Three Months Aerobic Training on Glucose Concentration and Insulin Action in Obese Females','Kiani Fatemeh, Samarikhalaj Hamidreza and Eizadi Mojtaba','47 KIANI FATEMEH @ EIZADI.pdf','',1,'It is generally accepted that obesity is associated with insulin resistance and metabolic syndrome. In this study, we aimed to determine beta cell function on response to three months exercise program in obese/overweight women. To achieve this outcome, twenty six adult obese/overweight women matched for age 38 ± 3 year and body weight 82 ± 7 kg were participated in this study and selected into exercise or control group by randomly. All participants were non-trained and non-pregnancy. Subjects in exercise group was completed a three months aerobic training program. Before and after exercise program, fasting glucose and insulin were measured of two groups. Anthropometrical markers were also measured before and after program. Paired-samples T tests were employed for comparison of corresponding variables within two groups. A P-value of < 0.05 was considered to be statistically significant. There were no statistically significant differences in all variables between exercise and control groups at baseline. Fasting glucose levels were significantly decreased after exercise program when compared to pretest in exercise subjects but not in control groups. Compared to pre-training, beta cell function increased significantly in exercise group but not in control subjects. Similar to improved insulin resistance that reported by many other studies, data of our study is also supports the beneficial property of long term aerobic training on beta cell function in obese/overweight individuals.','Insulin action, Glucose homeostasis, obesity, Exercise training','It is generally accepted that obesity is associated with insulin resistance and metabolic syndrome. In this study, we aimed to determine beta cell function on response to three months exercise program in obese/overweight women. To achieve this outcome, twenty six adult obese/overweight women matched for age 38 ± 3 year and body weight 82 ± 7 kg were participated in this study and selected into exercise or control group by randomly. All participants were non-trained and non-pregnancy. Subjects in exercise group was completed a three months aerobic training program. Before and after exercise program, fasting glucose and insulin were measured of two groups. Anthropometrical markers were also measured before and after program. Paired-samples T tests were employed for comparison of corresponding variables within two groups. A P-value of < 0.05 was considered to be statistically significant. There were no statistically significant differences in all variables between exercise and control groups at baseline. Fasting glucose levels were significantly decreased after exercise program when compared to pretest in exercise subjects but not in control groups. Compared to pre-training, beta cell function increased significantly in exercise group but not in control subjects. Similar to improved insulin resistance that reported by many other studies, data of our study is also supports the beneficial property of long term aerobic training on beta cell function in obese/overweight individuals.','Over the past years, obesity has increasingly prevailed and is now one of the most serious public health problems in developed as well as developing countries. The incidence of obesity is associated with an increased incidence of some chronic diseases such as cardiovascular disease, metabolic syndrome, diabetes and diseases related to insulin resistance [1]. However, the mechanisms by which obesity effects chronic diseases are not yet fully understood. World Health Organization (WHO) mentions the rapid increase in the prevalence of obesity as an epidemic and considers obesity and its complications as a major health problem worldwide [2].\r\nThroughout life, beta-cell function is impaired by certain reversible factors. Beta-cell dysfunction usually has a genetic basis [3] and accelerates the onset of diabetes [4]. In fact, the beta-cell function is impaired with aging [5], which comes along with impaired glucose tolerance and diabetes [6]. In addition, overweight and obesity accelerate the destruction of the beta cells [7]. As noted before, patients suffering from diabetes type 2, even those who are at a young age, are prone to cardiovascular risk factors. These findings have been observed in young men with a mean age of 22 years [8]. \r\nStudies on laboratory animals have shown that inadequate secretion of insulin leads to diabetes type 2 which is associated with decreased beta-cell function and levels caused by reduced proliferation and cell death [9]. Although temporary and moderate increase in insulin resistance leads to increased beta-cell mass [9, 10, 11], which is a result of cell hypertrophy, severe and long-term insulin resistance causes the reduction of beta-cell proliferation. So in response to prolonged insulin resistance, beta-cell mass levels are not be maintained [9]. Among external interventions, exercise has been introduced as an improving factor of insulin sensitivity and insulin function in insulin-resistant humans and animal models [12], although the effects of exercise on beta-cell mass and function has been less considered. Hence, the present study was conducted to determine the effect of a three-month program of aerobic exercise on blood glucose levels and beta-cell function in obese, non-athletic group of women.\r\nMATERIAL AND METHODS\r\nIn present study, the effect of three months aerobic training on beta cell function and fasting glucose were measured in obese/overweight women. For this purpose, twenty six non-trained apparently healthy women matched for age (38 ± 3 years of old) and BMI (26 ≤ BMI ≤ 36) participated in this study by accidentally samples. \r\n \r\n Fatemeh, Hamidreza and Mojtaba 269\r\n \r\nParticipants were randomly assigned to either an aerobic training group (n = 13) or a control group (n = 13). Baseline physical characteristics are presented by group in Table 1. Participants were excluded if they had a chronic disease or had an orthopedic condition that would limit their ability to perform exercise. \r\nAnthropometric measurements of height, weight, percent body fat, and circumference measurements were taken by the same trained general physician. Height was measured without shoes on standing while the shoulders were tangent with the wall. Body weight was measured in duplicate in the morning following a 12-h fast. Body mass index BMI was calculated as weight (kg) divided by squared height (m). Abdominal obesity and hip circumference were determined in a standing position at the end of normal expiration and ratio between them (AHO) was calculated for each subjects. Percentage body fat was measured using body composition monitor (OMRON, Finland).\r\nA. Inclusion and exclusion criteria \r\nAll subjects were inactive, non-smoker and non-pregnancy. Subjects were currently participating in an organized physical activity training program over the previous 6 months, and were also excluded from the study. None of the subjects used drugs or therapies for obesity, and none had a past history of disease or injury that would prevent daily exercise. Potential participants were excluded from the study if they reported smoking or had a history of heart disease, stroke or were taking glucose-lowering medication.\r\nB. Blood analysis and protocol\r\nBlood samples were collected after a overnight fast before and after exercise program. The exercise program involved 45-60 min of aerobic exercise training, three times per week for 12 weeks. Each exercise session was supervised by an exercise physiologist or one of the study physicians. In each session, subjects completed a 5-10 min warm-up, followed by 60 min of aerobic exercise at 60-80%VO2max (with continuous heart rate monitoring). Each exercise sessions finished by 5-min cool down. Aerobic exercise involved running on a flat surface with no slope or treadmill. Adherence to the exercise prescription was documented through the use of Polar heart rate monitors, and subjects received feedback if training intensities were either too high or low in comparison with desirable intensities. \r\nBlood samples were analyzed for fasting glucose and insulin. Insulin was determined by ELISA method (Demeditec, Germany) and the intra- assay and inter-assay coefficient of variation of the method were 2.6% and 2.88 respectively. Glucose was determined by the oxidase method (Pars Azmoon kit, Tehran). Beta cell function was assessed using the homeostasis model assessment formula derived from fasting insulin and glucose levels [13].\r\nC. Data analysis\r\nAll analyses in the statistical evaluation were carried out with SPSS-13.0 software. Normal distribution of data was analyzed by the Kolmogorov-Smirnov normality test. Comparisons between the means of each group were done using the independent t-test. Student’s t-tests for paired samples were performed to determine whether there were signigcant within-group changes in the outcomes. The results were considered statistically significant for p<0.05.\r\nRESULTS\r\nWe previous mentioned that this study was produced with aim to assess that effect of three month aerobic training for three time per week on beta cell function and fasting glucose in non-trained obese/overweight women. Pre and post training of anthropometrical markers are showed in Table 1. All values are reported as mean and standard deviation. At baseline, there were no differences in the age, body weight and other anthropometrical indexes between the two groups. \r\nWe observed a significant decline for body weight (p = 0.003) and other anthropometrical or body composition markers after exercise program when compared with pre test. Compared to pre-training, beta cell function increased significantly (p = 0.015) in exercise group but this variables was not changed in control group (p = 0.913) (Fig. 1). Fasting glucose levels were significantly decreased by aerobic training intervention when compared with pre test (p = 0.001), but not in control subjects (p = 0.356) (Fig. 2).\r\nDISCUSSION\r\nIn this study, a three-month aerobic exercise significantly increased beta-cell function in obese adults. In support of these findings, the literature has raised the hypothesis that regular physical activity has a protective effect on pancreatic beta-cell function [14], though there are few studies on the subject and the direct effect of exercise on beta-cell adjustment to insulin resistance is still unclear. \r\nIt is known that a diet high in fat increases insulin resistance which leads to the incidence and severity of diabetes type 2 [15]. A fat diet which consists of 40 percent of fat leads to Hypertrophy of insulin and finally to an increase in insulin secretion to compensate for insulin resistance and is able to maintain the blood glucose levels at a normal rate [16, 17]. Although keeping a high-fat diet for a long course of time leads to an insufficient release of insulin due to beta-cell sensitivity and eventually leads to diabetes type 2 [16], yet, a diet moderate on fat maintains proper levels of insulin-secretion and proper beta-cell functioning [16]. Changes in insulin levels and insulin resistance are the same in both types of diabetes and metabolic syndrome which is, in most cases, resulted from a response to the consumption of foods high on sugar, in a way that, when blood glucose levels rise, the pancreas cells increase insulin secretion at doses higher than normal in order to lower blood glucose concentrations, the result of which is a sudden drop in blood sugar. The continuous bombardment of the target receptors by excessive secretion of insulin causes, in the long run, these receptors to become dependent on high insulin levels and accordingly decreases their sensitivity to insulin and finally increases insulin resistance [18].\r\nRegular exercise reduces levels of visceral fat and body weight without reducing non-fat mass and increases insulin sensitivity and improves blood glucose levels [19]. In the present study, too, significant increase in beta-cell function was observed following three months of training which was associated with a significant reduction in fat indicators such as weight and body fat percentage or body-mass indicator. \r\nAs a result of exercise, not only insulin resistance but also glucose-dependent insulin secretion plays an important role in homeostasis Galuzi [20, 21], though the effects of exercise on insulin secretion are not permanent.\r\nIn response to obesity, especially visceral obesity, insulin sensitivity is reduced and is closely related to systemic hypertension and dyslipidaemia. These features are associated with metabolic syndrome which is all associated with the increased cardio-vascular risk factors [22]. But the present study shows that, in addition to increased beta-cell function and reduction of fasting glucose levels, weight loss induced by exercise in obese women is also associated with significant increases in high level lipoprotein (HDL). In obese mice, limited calorie [23], reduction in fat mass [24], and increased physical activity [25, 26], improve insulin sensitivity and inhibit the spread of hyperglysymy. These interventions that increase insulin sensitivity or function lead to a reduction in insulin demand from the pancreas and to the reduction of apoptosis of pancreas insulin beta cells [14].\r\nDespite the fact that the effect of exercise on beta-cell function in diabetes type 2 has been in more focus, it has been less studied in healthy obese people. However, it is shown that beta cells in type 2 diabetic subjects and healthy individuals react in response to exercise [27], though the effects of exercise varies depending on the initial capacity of the beta cells. According to this evidence, it is expected that depending on the capacity of insulin secretion from Pancreas beta-cells, the effect of exercise on beta-cell function be different in different obese and diabetic populations and it is not necessarily expected that beta-cell response to exercise in non-diabetics with relatively balanced blood glucose be similar to that in diabetic individuals. Scientific studies have shown that exercise-induced muscles can increase beta-cell functions [28]. In this respect, also other scientific studies have shown that insulin-resistant muscles secrete peptides that can increase beta-cell mass or secretion [29, 30]. It is also possible that in the present study, the change in the secretion of these peptides in response to exercise has directly increased beta-cell function.\r\n','Kiani Fatemeh, Samarikhalaj Hamidreza and Eizadi Mojtaba (2014).Effect of Three Months Aerobic Training on Glucose Concentration and Insulin Action in Obese Females. Biological Forum – An International Journal 6(2): 268-272. '),(4578,'120','Status and Conservation of Mammalian Diversity in Indian Himalaya','Gaurav Sharma, Kamalakannan M., Debashree Dam and Akhlaq Husain','48 DR GAURAV SHARMA-REVISED.pdf','',1,'The Himalaya is the great range of mountains that spreads over a west-northwest to east-southeast distance of about 2,500 km covering political administrative regions of Afghanistan, Pakistan, India, Nepal, Bhutan and China. About 5,416 species of mammal have been reported from the globe and 427 species from India, in that about 290 species of Mammals recorded so far from Indian Himalaya. From the different zones of Himalaya, the studies reported 40 species of Mammals from Indian Trans-Himalaya, 77 species from North-West Himalaya, 102 species from Western Himalaya and 172 species from Eastern Himalaya. Most of the Mammalian species of India are given protection in different Schedules of Indian Wildlife (Protection) Act, 1972, listed in different categories of IUCN Red List of Threatened Species and CITES and these information are provided in this paper. In this paper, the efforts were made to provide status and conservation of Mammalian diversity in Himalaya, from studies conducted, past literature, museum records and other lesser-known sources of information.','Mammals, Diversity, Himalaya, India.','The Himalaya is the great range of mountains that spreads over a west-northwest to east-southeast distance of about 2,500 km covering political administrative regions of Afghanistan, Pakistan, India, Nepal, Bhutan and China. About 5,416 species of mammal have been reported from the globe and 427 species from India, in that about 290 species of Mammals recorded so far from Indian Himalaya. From the different zones of Himalaya, the studies reported 40 species of Mammals from Indian Trans-Himalaya, 77 species from North-West Himalaya, 102 species from Western Himalaya and 172 species from Eastern Himalaya. Most of the Mammalian species of India are given protection in different Schedules of Indian Wildlife (Protection) Act, 1972, listed in different categories of IUCN Red List of Threatened Species and CITES and these information are provided in this paper. In this paper, the efforts were made to provide status and conservation of Mammalian diversity in Himalaya, from studies conducted, past literature, museum records and other lesser-known sources of information.','India is very rich in terms of Biodiversity due to its unique biogeographic location, diversified climatic conditions and enormous ecodiversity and geodiversity. The Indian landmass is bounded by the Himalaya in the North, the Bay of Bengal in the East, the Arabian Sea in the West, and Indian Ocean in the South. In terms of landmass, it is the seventh largest country and one of the 17 mega biodiversity countries in the world. The Himalaya is the great range of mountains that spreads over a west-northwest to east-southeast distance of about 2,500 km covering political administrative regions of Afghanistan, Pakistan, India, Nepal, Bhutan and China. Considering both geographic and biogeographic divisions, the Indian Himalaya is divided into four zones for the convenience of biodiversity analysis of the mountain ecosystems of India i.e. Trans-Himalaya which includes upper region of Jammu and Kashmir (districts of Ladakh and Kargil) and Himachal Pradesh (Spiti Valley, Lahaul Valley, district Kinnaur); North-West Himalaya which includes Jammu & Kashmir and Himachal Pradesh excluding the Trans-Himalayan part; Western Himalaya which includes Himachal Pradesh (excluding the parts of Trans-Himalaya and North-West Himalaya) and Uttarakhand; Eastern Himalaya, covering three biotic provinces viz., Central Himalaya (Sikkim and Darjeeling District, West Bengal), East Himalaya (Arunachal Pradesh) and North-Eastern Hills (Assam, Manipur, Meghalaya, Mizoram, Nagaland and Tripura) and these all comes under three biogeographic zones viz., Trans-Himalayan; Himalayan (part) and North-East India. \r\nIn this paper, the efforts were made to provide status and conservation of Faunal Diversity of India with special reference to Mammalian diversity in Himalaya, from studies conducted, past literature, museum records and other lesser-known sources of information. \r\nRESULTS AND DISCUSSION\r\nAbout 5,416 species of mammal have been reported from the globe (Wilson and Reeder, 2005), in that 427 species reported from India, which is about 7.81% of the global mammalian species, representing 48 families and 14 orders (Sharma et al., 2014). Out of 427 species, about 290 species belongs to 39 families and 13 orders of class Mammalia recorded so far from Indian Himalaya, in that 40 species of Mammals are known from Indian Trans-Himalaya; 77 species from North-West Himalaya, 102 species from Western Himalaya and 172 species from Eastern Himalaya (Table 1). \r\nSome of the representative, characteristic and threatened species of Mammals of Indian Himalayas are Marmota himalayana and Marmota caudata (Marmots), Petaurista petaurista (Red Giant Flying Squirrel), Ochotona ladacensis (Ladakh Pika), Lepus tolai tibetanus (Tibet Hare), Capra siberica (Siberian Ibex), Pseudois nayaur (Blue Sheep), Ovis orientalis vignei (Ladakh Urial or Shapu), Procapra picticaudata (Tibetan Gazelle), Bos mutus (Wild Yak), Equus kiang (Tibetan Wild Ass or Kiang), Panthera tigris (Tiger), Panthera pardus (Leopard), Uncia uncia (Snow Leopard), Prionailurus benghalensis (Leopard Cat), Manis crassicaudata (Indian Pangolin), Elephas maximus (Asian Elephant), Vulpes vulpes flavescens (Mountain Red Fox), Moschus chrysogaster (Alpine Musk Deer), Nemorhaedus goral (Goral), Muntiacus muntjak (Barking Deer), Cervus eldi eldi (Brow-antlered Deer), Caprolagus hispidus (Hispid Hare), Sus salvanius (Pygmy Hog), Rhinoceros unicornis (Great One Horned Rhinoceros), Hylobatus hoolock (Hoolock Gibbon), Presbytis phayrei (Phayre’s Leaf Monkey), Ursus thibetanus laniger (Himalayan Black Bear), Ursus acrtos (Brown Bear), Helarctos malayanus (Malayan Sun Bear), Melursus ursinus (Sloth Bear), Ailurus fulgens (Red Panda), Budorcas taxicolor (Takin), Macaca arctoides (Stump-tailed Macaque), Nycticebus bengalensis (Bengal Slow Loris), Hoolock hoolock (Western Hoolock Gibbon) and Hoolock leuconedys (Eastern Hoolock Gibbon) etc. Platanista gangetica gangetica (Ganges River Dolphin) is the only aquatic mammalian species of Eastern Himalaya and confined to Brahmaputra River System. In the last few decades Biswamoyopterus biswasi (Namdhapa Flying Squirrel) and Trachypithecus geei (Gee’s Golden Langur) have been discovered. The current conservation status of the Indian mammals as per Indian Wildlife (Protection) Act, 1972, IUCN Red list of Threatened Species and CITES is provided in Table 1.\r\nBiological resources have traditionally been a major source of food for local inhabitants and of major economic value in terms of commercial exploitation. Ecosystems and biodiversity of India have been exploited since long time but it is only in the last century that the rate of exploitation has increased dramatically, due mostly to the increase in the human population. Except for some of the Andaman-Nicobar Islands, no pristine area exists today. At the end of the last century or in the beginning of this century, very few areas of India remained unaffected, whereas most were partially deteriorated and a few were severely affected. \r\nConserving what we have today is hampered by lack of management measures including outreach and our ability to predict what would live in India and lack of data relating changes in biodiversity to those of environment. Most of the Mammalian species of India are given protection in different Schedules of Wildlife (Protection) Act, 1972 and also listed in IUCN Red List of Threatened Species and CITES (Table 1). To monitor changes in land use practices especially in areas of endangered animals. In order to control losses in biodiversity and restore degraded ecosystems, we need to have a full assessment of the magnitude of such losses that stem from the utilization of biodiversity, and the factors that promote the unsustainable use of biotic resources. An important aspect is to strengthen the measuring, monitoring and management of biodiversity and evaluate our conservation strategies in the light of human needs for biomass with coordinated approach to sustain protection of both areas and diversity as seen in totality.\r\nThe fauna of the Himalayan region have been adversely affected owing to combined effect of habitat destruction, fragmentation, hunting, poaching, illegal trade, grazing, deforestation, hybridization, random use of pesticides, landslides, cloud bursts, floods, construction of Hydroelectric Projects and others. Himalayan glaciers are shrinking at a faster pace causing changes in the water dynamics of perennial rivers in the region affecting faunal components. The present need is sincere, collective efforts and action oriented strategies for conservation of Biodiversity and different ecosystems of Himalaya are required from all levels and also efforts to restore degraded ecosystems to be accelerated.\r\n','Gaurav Sharma, Kamalakannan M., Debashree Dam and Akhlaq Husain (2014). Status and Conservation of Mammalian Diversity in Indian Himalaya. Biological Forum – An International Journal 6(2): 273-299.'),(4579,'120','Cardiorespiratory Fitness in Relation to Fasting Glucose and Insulin Action in Obese Females','Kalhor Hossein, Moghaddam Vahid and Biniaz Seyed Abbas','49 KALHOR HOSSEIN @ EIZADI.pdf','',1,'Obesity is a major health problem in people and related with insulin resistance and lower physical fitness. In pre sent study were conducted to test whether cardiorespiratory fitness is associated with beta cell function or glucose in obese women. For these purpose, twenty nine adult females aged 38 ± 4.4 year and body mass index (BMI) 31.7 ± 2.48 kg/m2 selected for this study by accessible sampling. Subjects were non-athletes and non-pregnancy. Fasting blood samples were collected to calculating glucose, insulin and beta cell function. Cardiorespiratory fitness (VO2max) was measured using a Rockport Walking Test. Pearson’s correlation coefficients were used to evaluate the correlations between VO2max and other variables. Statistical significance was accepted at p-value<0.05 or lower. Data showed that VO2max is positively correlated with beta cell function and negatively correlated with fasting glucose in studied subjects. These data suggest that cardiorespiratory can be affect glucose concentration may be through beta cell function.','Maximal oxygen consumption, Glucose, Obesity','Obesity is a major health problem in people and related with insulin resistance and lower physical fitness. In pre sent study were conducted to test whether cardiorespiratory fitness is associated with beta cell function or glucose in obese women. For these purpose, twenty nine adult females aged 38 ± 4.4 year and body mass index (BMI) 31.7 ± 2.48 kg/m2 selected for this study by accessible sampling. Subjects were non-athletes and non-pregnancy. Fasting blood samples were collected to calculating glucose, insulin and beta cell function. Cardiorespiratory fitness (VO2max) was measured using a Rockport Walking Test. Pearson’s correlation coefficients were used to evaluate the correlations between VO2max and other variables. Statistical significance was accepted at p-value<0.05 or lower. Data showed that VO2max is positively correlated with beta cell function and negatively correlated with fasting glucose in studied subjects. These data suggest that cardiorespiratory can be affect glucose concentration may be through beta cell function.','Access to high-fat and high-calorie foods in one hand, and genetic factors and reduced physical activity on the other hand, contribute to the incidence of obesity. Literature supports a strong positive relationship between the level of fat cells and obesity-related disorders, such as hypertension, atherosclerosis, and insulin resistance. It was found that adipose tissue plays an important role in inflammation and reduced immune system function, especially in the case of obesity [1], so that the increased levels of adipose tissue or subcutaneous fat is associated with increased inflammation in obese patient or healthy obese individuals.\r\nImpaired glucose tolerance and type 2 diabetes increase with age in obese patients [2), where more than 45 percent of the elderly people possess the criteria of type 2 diabetes [3,4]. Progress of type 2 diabetes, particularly in obese patients, is associated with the failure of beta-cells to compensate for insulin resistance [5]. In obese and type 2 diabetic patients, adipokines profile and energy metabolism and insulin function is significantly impaired compared to healthy control individuals [6]. Some studies have supported the increased insulin resistance and decreased insulin sensitivity in obesity [5,7,8]. Reduction in beta-cell function can be observed in some obese subjects, particularly those susceptible to type 2 diabetes [5].\r\nIt was found that physical activity increases insulin sensitivity in insulin-resistant obese patients or those with a family history of type 2 diabetes or those with type 2 diabetes. However, these studies have not assessed the effect of exercise on beta-cell function. \r\nOn the other hand, obese and diabetic obese individuals have lower levels of cardiorespiratory fitness compared to those with normal weight [11,12]. Reduced cardiorespiratory fitness in obese individuals is often rooted in the lack of activity and exercise. Based on this evidence, it appears that there is a relationship between insulin resistance or beta cell function and cardiorespiratory fitness, especially in those who have a sedentary lifestyle. Since the studies in this area are limited, the present study aimed at determining the association between beta-cell function and cardiorespiratory fitness (VO2max) in a group of obese non-athlete women.\r\nMETHOD AND METHODS\r\nA. Study Subjects and Recruitment\r\nTwenty nine healthy adult obese women (38 ± 4.4 years, BMI 31.7 ± 2.48 kg/m2. M ± SD) participated in the study by accessible sampling. All subjects were otherwise in good health were taking no medications. Participants were non-athletes, non-smokers and non-pregnancy. Participants were included if they had not been involved in regular physical activity/diet in the previous 6 months.\r\nWe also excluded people who had any self reported physician diagnosed chronic disease (arthritis, stroke, diabetes, hypertension, cancer, heart attack, chronic cough, or bronchitis). After the nature of the study was explained in detail, informed consent was obtained from all participants.\r\nB. Anthropometry\r\nEach subject’s anthropometrical markers were measured. Anthropometric measurements were performed in all study participants before breakfast, with the subject wearing light clothing without shoes. Standing height of the barefoot subjects was measured to the nearest 0.1 cm with the use of a wall-mounted stadiometer. Weight was measured to the nearest 100 g using digital scales. Obesity was measured by body mass index (BMI). Body mass index (BMI) was calculated by dividing body mass (kg) by height in metres squared (m2). Abdominal circumference and hip circumference were measured in the most condensed part using a non-elastic cloth meter. Percentage body fat was measured using body composition monitor (OMRON, Finland).\r\nC. Laboratory and Training exercise\r\nCardiorespiratory fitness (VO2max) was measured using a Rockport Walking Test [13]. In this exercise test, after a brief warm up, the subject walks as briskly as possible for one mile (1609 meters) with a heart rate monitor. Tester records heart rate (beats per minute) and time of completion. Evaluates cardiovascular fitness for adults. It is important to accurately measure exercise heart rate. Heart rate was electronically monitored in the original study. \r\nVenous blood was collected from subjects after an overnight fast. Plasma insulin was determined using ELISA method. Glucose was determined by the oxidase method (Pars Azmoon, Tehran). The homoeostasis model assessment (HOMA) for estimating beta cell function was calculated by fasting glucose and insulin [14].\r\nD. Data analysis\r\nNormal distribution of data was analyzed by the Kolmogorov-Smirnov normality test. Data were analyzed by computer using the Statistical Package for Social Sciences (SPSS) for Windows, version 15.0. Pearson’s correlation coefficients were used to evaluate the correlations between VO2max with glucose concentration and beta cell function. All statistical tests were performed and considered significant at a P ≤ 0.05.\r\nRESULTS\r\nIn present study, VO2max as cardiorespiratory fitness in response to fasting glucose and beta cell function were determined in adult obese women. Body weight, all anthropometrical markers and blood chemistry parameters are shown in Table 1.\r\nData of Pearson’s correlation coefficients showed that cardiorespiratory fitness was negatively correlated with fasting glucose (p= 0.030, r = 0.40, Fig. 1). A significant positive correlation was also observed between VO2max and beta cell function (p = 0.007, r = 0.49, Fig. 2).\r\nDISCUSSION\r\nThe main finding of this study was the significant relationship between VO2max, as an indicator of cardiovascular fitness, with beta-cell function. In other words, increase in cardiovascular fitness is associated with increase in beta-cell function. Although some earlier studies measured the relationship between cardiorespiratory fitness with some other biochemical markers, such as inflammatory or anti-inflammatory cytokine, this study was one of the few to investigate the relationship between VO2max and beta-cell function in obese women.\r\nThe findings of this study supports the hypothesis that reduced physical activity or sedentary, which is characterized by a decreased cardiorespiratory fitness, is associated with increased blood glucose levels, especially in obese healthy or patient populations because in the present study, in addition to direct and significant relationship with beta cells, VO2max also had a negative significant correlation with fasting glucose levels. Regarding the relationship between VO2max and other biochemical markers that are affected by obesity, findings of a recent study support the effect of improved aerobic fitness (VO2max) in of the prevention of systemic inflammation [15]. In another study, a significant relationship was observed between VO2max and inflammatory markers such as CRP, IL-1B, IL-10, and TNF-α in overweight children [16]. A strong relationship was observed between VO2max and factors determining obesity and inflammatory profile with emphasis on CRP [11].\r\n \r\n Hossein, Vahid and Abbas 303\r\n \r\nFindings of the present study, which suggest a direct relationship between VO2max and beta-cell function and an inverse relationship between VO2max with blood glucose, conclude that a dynamic lifestyle and participating in long-term aerobic training, which is associated with increased cardiorespiratory fitness, reduce blood glucose levels and improve insulin sensitivity as well as beta cell function. It was found that three months of exercise training increases VO2max in adults with type 2 diabetes [17]. In this regard, the findings of a study showed that insulin resistance and fasting fatty acid levels are independent predictor of VO2max [12].\r\nLiterature have pointed out that diet or exercise affects beta-cell function and mass as well as the insulin resistance [18]. Diet and exercise both increase insulin secretion while having mechanism of action independent of each other. A high fat diet increases beta-cell mass trough hypertrophy to overcome insulin resistance while aerobic training increases beta-cell mass trough hyperplasia. This hyperplasia is induced by beta cell proliferation and reduced apoptosis [18]. \r\nSome studies have shown that homeostasis exercise improves glucose by enhancing glucose uptake in skeletal muscle and adipose tissue [19-21]. Moreover, some studies reported that aerobic training reduces liver insulin signals by reducing hepatic glucose release in hyperinsulinemia [7-8]. Although some studies have shown that exercise improves the mass and function of beta-cells in type 2 diabetic patients [18]. Improved beta-cell function in type 2 diabetic obese in response to weight loss strongly supports the hypothesis that obesity and its associated metabolic disorders are a factor in destruction of the beta cells.\r\n','Kalhor Hossein, Moghaddam Vahid and Biniaz Seyed Abbas (2014). Cardiorespiratory Fitness in Relation to Fasting Glucose and Insulin Action in Obese Females. Biological Forum – An International Journal 6(2): 300-304. '),(4580,'120','Lower Total Antioxidant Capacity in Smokers Compare to\r\n Non-smokers\r\n','Eizadi Mojtaba, Khorshidi Davood and Dooaly Hussein','50 EIZADI MOJTABA @ EIZADI.pdf','',1,'Smoking is characterized by increased free radicals and stress oxidative. The objective of present study was to compare total antioxidant capacity between adult men with or without cigarette smoking. For this purpose, sixteen untrained adult smoker’s men and the same number non-smokers matched for age 40 ± 5.6 year, body weight 93 ± 11 kg and height 174 ± 4 cm was assigned to this study by accessible sampling. Venous blood was collected from subjects after an overnight fast between 8:00 a.m. and 9:00 a.m. Blood samples were used for evaluation serum total antioxidant capacity. Participants were non-athletes and non-alcoholics. Independent sample T-test was used to compare total antioxidant capacity between smoker and non-smokers. A P-value of < 0.05 was considered to be statistically significant. Data showed that total antioxidant capacity was significantly higher in smoker than non-smoker subject (p = 0.012). Based on these finding, we support that smoking is associated with decreased antioxidant capacity and stress oxidative. Future studies should examine the potential role of smoking on oxidant/antioxidant capacity balance.','Antioxidant capacity, Smoking, Inflammation','Smoking is characterized by increased free radicals and stress oxidative. The objective of present study was to compare total antioxidant capacity between adult men with or without cigarette smoking. For this purpose, sixteen untrained adult smoker’s men and the same number non-smokers matched for age 40 ± 5.6 year, body weight 93 ± 11 kg and height 174 ± 4 cm was assigned to this study by accessible sampling. Venous blood was collected from subjects after an overnight fast between 8:00 a.m. and 9:00 a.m. Blood samples were used for evaluation serum total antioxidant capacity. Participants were non-athletes and non-alcoholics. Independent sample T-test was used to compare total antioxidant capacity between smoker and non-smokers. A P-value of < 0.05 was considered to be statistically significant. Data showed that total antioxidant capacity was significantly higher in smoker than non-smoker subject (p = 0.012). Based on these finding, we support that smoking is associated with decreased antioxidant capacity and stress oxidative. Future studies should examine the potential role of smoking on oxidant/antioxidant capacity balance.','Despite frequent notice of irreversible disadvantages and consequences of smoking in public media and by other forms of advertising, the consumption of cigarette is growing dramatically in both developed and developing countries. In that, based on the available statistics, even in previous years, almost one-third of population over age 30 years are smokers [1]. On the other hand, the more recent figures and statistics indicate that more than 700 million children are second-hand smokers [2, 3]. In addition, the consequences of smoking are not only temporary, rather according to the existing evidence, there is a direct correlation between cigarette smoking and many cardiovascular and respiratory, as well as atherosclerosis problems along with morphological changes of vessel walls [4].\r\nIt has been reported that the smokers are more prone to cardiovascular problems caused by increased production of free radicals as well as decreased level of anti-oxidants. Such conditions are in fact resulted from imbalance between the production of oxidants, as well as defense capacity and capability of anti-oxidants of immune system [6]. Decrease in protective systems of anti-oxidants, due to cigarette smoking, is reported as the cause of many pathological conditions [7]. Since, in addition to reduced antioxidant capacity, increased level of free radicals and several oxidant agents is among the outcomes of cigarette smoking [8].\r\nHowever, in a relatively recent study, the activity level of super-oxidant as an enzymatic antioxidant has been reported higher in the smokers [9]. In another study, lower levels of superoxide dismutase activity have been reported lower in smokers than non-smokers [10]. In contrast, some other researches have reported higher activity of that enzyme in cigarette smokers [11, 12, and 13]. With respect to the research findings from the comparison of the levels of some antioxidants between cigarette smokers and non-smokers, as well as according to few number of comparative studies into the total capacity of antioxidants, as the representation of all existing antioxidants, the present study is conducted aiming for making comparison between a group of male smokers and non-smokers in terms of total capacity of antioxidants.\r\nMATERIAL AND METHODS\r\nA. Human Subjects\r\nWe previous mentioned that this study aimed to compare total antioxidant capacity between adult men smokers and those with non-smoking. For this purpose, sixteen untrained adult smokers men and the same number non-smokers matched for sex (men), aged (40 ± 5.6 year of old) and body weight (93 ± 11 kg) were selected for participate in this study by accessible sampling.\r\n. Inclusion and exclusion criteria\r\nAll participants were non-athletes and non-alcoholics. All subjects were non-smokers and had not participated in regular exercise/diet programs for the preceding 6 months. Inclusion criteria to study for smoker group were smoking history of At least 10 cigarettes a day for 5 years for smoker group [14]. Those with type II diabetes, respiratory and cardiovascular diseases, cancer, kidney dysfunction and other chronic diseases were excluded. Each participant received written and verbal explanations about the nature of the study before signing an informed consent form.\r\nC. Anthropometric measures\r\nAll participants of two groups matched for age and anthropometrical markers. For this purpose, each subject’s body weight and height were measured. Body mass index (BMI) was calculated by dividing body mass (kg) by height in meters squared (m2). Weight was measured to the nearest 100 g using digital scales. Standing height was measured to the nearest 0.1 cm with the use of a wall-mounted stadiometer. The abdominal circumference was measured to the nearest 0.1 cm, using a non-extendable flexible tape applied above the iliac crest and parallel to the ground; with the subject standing erect with abdomen relaxed, arms along the body, and feet together. Hip circumference was measured at the maximum circumference between the iliac crest and the crotch while the participant was standing and was recorded to the nearest 0.1 cm.\r\nD. Laboratory Analyses\r\nFor measure total antioxidant capacity, fasting blood samples were collected after an overnight fast between 8:00 a.m. and 9:00 a.m. All participants refrained from any severe physical activity 48 h before measurements. Plasma total antioxidant capacity was measured by FRAP method (the sensitivity of method was 0.1 Units/ml).\r\nE. Statistical analyses\r\nStatistical analysis was performed with the SPSS software version 15.0. An Independent sample T-test was used to compare the serum levels of all resist in between asthma and none-asthma subjects. The Kolmogorov-Smirnov test was applied to determine the variables with normal distribution. Signiﬁcance was accepted at P < 0.05.\r\nRESULTS\r\nTotal antioxidant capacity was compared between non-trained adult men with or without smoking. Table 1 shows descriptive characteristics of anthropometrical markers and total antioxidant capacity of studied subjects. Data represent by mean and standard deviation. Based on independent samples T test, we observed that non-smokers subject have higher level of total antioxidant capacity when compared with smoker subjects (p = 0.012).\r\nDISCUSSION\r\nAccording to the statistical findings of this study, male smokers had lower levels of total antioxidant capacity. These findings relatively support the devastating effects of cigarette smoking on antioxidant defense system, as well as the progress of oxidative stress in the presence of cigarette smoking. According to these findings, it can be clearly concluded that reduced antioxidant capacity in cigarette smokers is associated with increased production of oxidants and free radicals. Increase or improvement of antioxidant capacity is facilitated through regular exercise, good nutrition, and more importantly the use of antioxidant supplements, which under different conditions, such as exercising, each antioxidant system shows different immediate or chronic response based on biochemical and biomolecular regulatory mechanisms. These systems are weakened under some conditions. In other words, some internal or external stimuli contribute to decreased antioxidant capacity and consequently to increased production of oxidants or free radicals, based on the stimulation degree. For example, the devastating impacts of smoking, especially cigarette as the most common tobacco product, on the antioxidant system have been frequently discussed.\r\nClinical studies have indicated that per puff of cigarette contains more than 1014 free radicals and is a complex mixture of 4700 chemical compounds [15]. \r\nLiterature has mentioned that oxidants and free radical particles are the major constituents of cigarette smoking. Investigation on a large group of French people suggest that the plasma levels as well as the absorption of vitamins E and C, as strong antioxidants against free radicals, decrease in cigarette smokers, which is associated with the reduction of antioxidant capacity [16]. Broad studies into increased rate of cardiovascular diseases in the smokers have mostly indicated to the decreased level of anti-oxidants, increased level of oxidized lipid, and increased levels of lipoproteins [17, 18].\r\nLiterature has also mentioned that the level of lipid peroxidation is far higher in cigarette smokers than non-smokers, which result in Atherosclerosis due to the destruction of lipids [19]. On the other hand, it has been reported that tobacco decreases anti-oxidant capacity of salvia for unidentified reasons [20]. Researchers also put that the imbalance between the level of free radicals and reactive oxygen species with antioxidants, due to cigarette smoking, has a key role in the onset and development of oral inflammatory lesions [21, 22, and 23]. In this regard, literature has taken cigarette smoking, which contains oxidants and pre-oxidants, as a major resource of free radicals [24].\r\nUnder the mentioned conditions and despite increased level of oxidants and free radicals during smoking, it seems that the anti-oxidant system is more active in the smokers.\r\n \r\n\r\n\r\n Mojtaba, Davood and Hussein 308\r\n \r\nIn that, in a relatively recent study, superoxide activity as an enzymatic anti-oxidant agent was reported higher in the smokers, and this difference is indeed due to the higher levels of free radicals in such people [9]. In contrast, another investigation reported lower mean of superoxide dismutase, glutathione peroxidase, and salivary peroxidase in the smokers [25]. In general, scientific resources have indicated that in the smokers, total capacity of antioxidants decreases and the oxidative/anti I oxidative balance evolves towards oxidative [26]. On the other hand, the key role of cigarette smoking in developing oxidative stress and performance disruption of Beta cells have been reported in some researches in the past [27]. Clinical observations revealed that even the second-hand smokers may develop type II diabetes [28]. \r\n','Eizadi Mojtaba, Khorshidi Davood and Dooaly Hussein (2014). Lower Total Antioxidant Capacity in Smokers Compare to Non-smokers. Biological Forum – An International Journal 6(2): 305-309. \r\n');
INSERT INTO `pdf_upload` VALUES (4581,'120','Plasma Levels of Total Antioxidant Capacity in Relation to Cardiovascular Risk Factor in Cigarette Smokers','Shahram Khanzadeh Holaso, Moghadasi Ahmad and Assadi Kayvan','51 SHAHRAM KHANZADEH HOLASO, MOGHADASI AHMAD AND ASSADI KAYVAN.pdf','',1,'Accumulating evidence suggests that smoking is associated with stress oxidative and cardiovascular risk factors. To analyze whether lipid profile markers as cardiovascular risk factors such as total cholesterol (TC), triglyceride (TG), low density lipoprotein (LDL) and high density lipoprotein (HDL) are associated with Total antioxidant capacity in smokers. Twenty one adult smoker men, 42 ± 4.5 year-olds were recruit fin this study. Fasting blood samples were collected of all participants with regard to measure all variables. Pair-wise correlations between total antioxidant capacity and cardiovascular risk factors were assessed by Pearson’s partial correlation coefficients. Level of significance was set at 95%. Analysis data showed that total antioxidant capacity was negatively correlated with TG (p = 0.000) and positively correlated with HDL (p = 0.000). The association between total antioxidant capacity and TC was borderline significant (p = 0.000). No significant correlation was observed between total antioxidant capacity and LDL in studied subjects (p = 0.000). These results support important role of cigarette smoking on both stress oxidative and cardiovascular status','Stress oxidative, smoking, cardiovascular risk factor','Accumulating evidence suggests that smoking is associated with stress oxidative and cardiovascular risk factors. To analyze whether lipid profile markers as cardiovascular risk factors such as total cholesterol (TC), triglyceride (TG), low density lipoprotein (LDL) and high density lipoprotein (HDL) are associated with Total antioxidant capacity in smokers. Twenty one adult smoker men, 42 ± 4.5 year-olds were recruit fin this study. Fasting blood samples were collected of all participants with regard to measure all variables. Pair-wise correlations between total antioxidant capacity and cardiovascular risk factors were assessed by Pearson’s partial correlation coefficients. Level of significance was set at 95%. Analysis data showed that total antioxidant capacity was negatively correlated with TG (p = 0.000) and positively correlated with HDL (p = 0.000). The association between total antioxidant capacity and TC was borderline significant (p = 0.000). No significant correlation was observed between total antioxidant capacity and LDL in studied subjects (p = 0.000). These results support important role of cigarette smoking on both stress oxidative and cardiovascular status','Today, smoking (tobacco products) is one of the major threats to human health. Over the past two decades, smoking has been reported to be a major cause of mortality in developed or developing countries [1]. Clinical studies showed that cigarette smoke contains 4000 poisonous substances [2].\r\nSeveral factors are involved in cardiovascular disease deaths in both developed and developing countries. Among them, the role of cigarettes and other tobacco products has always been stressed by healthcare academics. According to a study in 1990, nearly 20% of cardiovascular deaths were smoking-related [3]. Research evidence suggests that cigarette smoking damages vascular endothelium which has an important role in the pathogenesis of cardiovascular diseases. However, the mechanisms by which smoking can alter endothelial homeostasis remains unknown [4].\r\nOn the other hand, some studies have suggested that quitting smoking delays the risk of cardiovascular disease for 5 to 10 years [5]. However, the immediate effects of quitting smoking on biomarkers associated with cardiovascular risk factors have not yet been fully studied. Researchers have noted that smoking increases cardiovascular risk factors, such as TG and LDL, and reduces HDL [6]. Literature has stressed the higher levels of dyslipidemia among smokers compared to non-smokers [5]. The researchers noted that smoking considerably decreases HDL and increases triglycerides compared to non-smokers [7,8]. These studies indicated a direct relationship between cigarette smoking and levels cardiovascular risk factors.\r\nHowever, clinical studies showed that more than 1014 free radicals and 4700 complex mixtures of chemical compositions exist in a pack of cigarettes [9]. Extensive studies on the increased cardiovascular disease in smokers often have indicated decreased antioxidants levels and increased oxidized lipid and lipoprotein levels due to smoking [10, 11]. Literature has noted that the level of lipid peroxidation was significantly higher in smokers compared to non-smokers, which leads to atherosclerosis due to the destruction of lipids [12]. Although the literature has noted both reduced total antioxidant capacity and increased cardiovascular risk factors, their relationship in smokers is not well-studied. Hence, the present study aimed at identifying the relationship between total antioxidant capacity and lipid profiles indicators and is entitled cardiovascular risk factors in a group of male smokers.\r\nMETHOD AND MATHODS\r\nA. Study Subjects and inclusion\r\nSubjects were twenty one sedentary adult smokers (men) aged 42 ± 4.5 year and body weight 94 ± 4.7 kg that selected in this study by accidentally. All smokers were non athletes and non-alcoholic. After the nature of the study was explained in detail, informed consent was obtained from all participants.\r\nInclusion criteria to study were smoking history of at least 10 cigarettes a day for 5 years. Participants were included if they had not been involved in regular physical activity or diet in the previous 6 months. Exclusion criteria for the study group were: diagnosed type 2 diabetes, coronary artery disease, cerebrovascular disease, and peripheral artery disease, using medicine or hormone preparations that affect the carbohydrate and lipid metabolism.\r\nB. Anthropometrical measurements\r\nAnthropometric measurements were performed in all study participants before breakfast, with the subject wearing light clothing without shoes. All anthropometric measurements were made by the same trained general physician. Height was measured without shoes on standing while the shoulders were tangent with the wall. Body weight was measured in duplicate in the morning following a 12-h fast. Body mass index (BMI) was calculated by dividing body mass (kg) by height in meters squared (m2). The abdominal circumference was measured to the nearest 0.1 cm, using a non-extendable flexible tape applied above the iliac crest and parallel to the ground; with the subject standing erect with abdomen relaxed, arms along the body, and feet together. Hip circumference was measured at the maximum circumference between the iliac crest and the crotch while the participant was standing and was recorded to the nearest 0.1 cm. \r\nC. Laboratory\r\nIn each subjects, a venous blood sample was collected from all the subjects who came after a 12-h overnight fast between the hours of 8 to 9 am. Blood samples used to measure clinical mentioned markers. Subjects were asked to avoid doing any heavy physical activity for 48 hours before blood sampling. Total cholesterol, HDL and LDL cholesterol and triglyceride were measured using the colorimetric enzymatic method with COBAS MIRA from Roche (Lörrach, Germany). To measure total antioxidant capacity in plasma, we used FRAP method (the sensitivity of method was 0.1 Units/ml).\r\nD. Statistical analyses\r\nData were expressed as individual values or the mean ± SD. Statistical analysis was performed with the SPSS software version 15.0. Normal distribution of data was analyzed by the Kolmogorov-Smirnov normality test. The bivariate associations between total antioxidant capacity and cardiovascular risk factors were examined with the Pearson rank correlation analysis in studied subjects. P value of <0.05 was accepted as significant.\r\nRESULTS\r\nIn present study, we aimed to determine the association of plasma total antioxidant capacity with cardiovascular risk factors such as TG, TC, LDL and HDL-cholesterol. Analysis was performed by Pearson correlation method. Subject characteristics of anthropometrical, lipid profile and total antioxidant capacity are summarized in Table 1. All values are given as mean and standard deviation.\r\nPlasma total antioxidant capacity were negatively correlated with TG (p = 0.018, r = 0.511, Fig 1). The plasma level of total antioxidant capacity was positively associated with HDL-cholesterol (p = 0.006, r = 0.58). A borderline signigcant negative association was observed between total antioxidant capacity and TC in studied subjects (p = 0.061, r = 0.415). There was no significant relationship between total antioxidant capacity and LDL-cholesterol in studied subjects (p = 0.289, r = 0.24).\r\nDISCUSSION\r\nThe findings of the present study support the direct relationship between total antioxidant capacity and HDL. These findings indicated that the increase or decrease in the total antioxidant capacity due to smoking is consistent with changes in HDL levels. It is reported that many cardiovascular incidents that commonly appear in middle age root in tobacco and cigarette smoking especially in adolescence and youth. These irreparable damages are not exclusive to smokers, and those non-smokers who are exposed to secondhand smoke are also affected, and the incidence of cardiovascular diseases and cancers in this population is much higher than those who are not exposed to cigarette smoke [13]. Long-term cigarettes smoking increased the incidence of common diseases such as atherosclerosis and COPD with detrimental effects on systemic inflammation [14]. Long-term cigarettes smoking increases inflammatory biomarkers such as CRP, fibrinogen, IL-6 and is accompanied by an increased number of WBCs [14]. \r\nThe health effects of smoking are so serious that the increased levels of inflammatory mediators such as CRP is present even after 20 to 30 years of quitting [14]. The literature has also noted weight loss caused by smoking. Findings of some studies reported a significant relationship between regular smoking and decreased body mass index and atrophy in smokers [15, 16, 17].\r\nIn the present study, statistical findings revealed a direct relationship between total antioxidant capacity and HDL. Statistical findings also pointed out a significant inverse relationship between total antioxidant capacity and blood triglyceride levels as a cardiovascular risk factor. Furthermore, although the inverse relationship between total antioxidant capacity and TC was not significant, the inverse relationship was clinically considerable. The lack of relationship between total antioxidant capacity and LDL in the studied smokers may be attributed to the low number of samples. It is also possible that the blood LDL levels in smokers indirectly affect the total antioxidant capacity.\r\n \r\n Holaso, Ahmad and Kayvan 313\r\n \r\nIt was found that smokers have higher levels of cardiovascular risk factors such as triglycerides, total cholesterol, and LDL compared to non-smokers [18]. It is noted that the most important constituent factors of the metabolic syndrome in smokers is hypertriglyceridemia and low HDL [19]. However, some studies have reported the lack of relationship between cardiovascular risk factors such as cholesterol with smoking [20]. Some factors, such as reactive oxygen species (ROS), increased blood glucose, lipids, and lipoproteins play a key role in the endothelial dysfunction [21, 22], and the literature supports the potential impact of smoking on their impairment.\r\nHowever, the results of another study suggested the acceleration in formation of blood lipid peroxides, and thus, the exacerbation of the adverse effects of these materials on the vessel wall in smokers [23]. The relationship between cigarette smoking and some metabolic and immune factors was found to be significant as research has showed a close significant relationship between cigarette smoking and blood homocysteine levels, folic acid, cholesterol, blood pressure, uric acid, and blood lipoproteins such as LDL and HDL [21]. Numerous studies indicated a close significant between cigarette smoking and high cholesterol levels [24, 25, 26]. However, some studies have reported an inverse relationship between smoking and blood cholesterol levels [27] or lack of relationship between smoking and hypertension [28, 29]. Some other studies have also reported increased levels of LDL and low levels of HDL in smokers compared to non-smokers [25, 26, 28]. Accumulation of nicotine products in plasma LDL and the structural proteins in the vessel wall and endothelial cells and the vascular damage caused by cigarette smoking increases the incidence or severity of vascular diseases [29, 30]. \r\n','Shahram Khanzadeh Holaso, Moghadasi Ahmad and Assadi Kayvan (2014).Plasma Levels of Total Antioxidant Capacity in Relation to Cardiovascular Risk Factor in Cigarette Smokers. Biological Forum – An International Journal 6(2): 310-314. '),(4582,'120','The Effect of Long-term Aerobic Training on Beta Cell Function in Asthma Patients','Torabi Mohsen, Aran Ardabili Akbar and Gholamreza Najafi','52 TORABI MOHSEN @ EIZADI 3.pdf','',1,'It was reported that asthma is Asthma is associated with insulin resistance and obesity. In present study, we aimed to evaluate the effect of a long term aerobic training included three months aerobic exercise for three times weekly on beta cell function and glucose concentration in non-trained adult males with asthma. For this purpose, twenty four males with mild to moderate asthma were randomly divided into exercise (aerobic training) or control groups. Pre and post training of insulin and glucose were determined after overnight fast between 8.00 a.m.–9.00 a.m of two group’s subjects. Beta cell function and insulin sensitivity were calculated by fasting insulin and glucose. Paired sample T test used to determine significant changes in each variable between two occasions. Despite a significant decrease in fasting glucose, beta cell function did not change by aerobic training program when compared with pre test. Aerobic training resulted in significant decrease in insulin sensitivity in exercise group but not in control subjects. Based on this data, improved fasting glucose by exercise training can be attributed to the change in insulin sensitivity not beta cell function in asthma patients.','Asthma, Beta Cell Function Aerobic Training, Glucose, Beta cell function, T test','It was reported that asthma is Asthma is associated with insulin resistance and obesity. In present study, we aimed to evaluate the effect of a long term aerobic training included three months aerobic exercise for three times weekly on beta cell function and glucose concentration in non-trained adult males with asthma. For this purpose, twenty four males with mild to moderate asthma were randomly divided into exercise (aerobic training) or control groups. Pre and post training of insulin and glucose were determined after overnight fast between 8.00 a.m.–9.00 a.m of two group’s subjects. Beta cell function and insulin sensitivity were calculated by fasting insulin and glucose. Paired sample T test used to determine significant changes in each variable between two occasions. Despite a significant decrease in fasting glucose, beta cell function did not change by aerobic training program when compared with pre test. Aerobic training resulted in significant decrease in insulin sensitivity in exercise group but not in control subjects. Based on this data, improved fasting glucose by exercise training can be attributed to the change in insulin sensitivity not beta cell function in asthma patients.','Variable Exercise Group\r\nPretest post-test Control Group\r\nPretest post-test\r\nAge (year) 37.9 +/- 9 37.9 +/- 9 38 +/- 6.4 38 +/- 6.4\r\nHeight (cm) 173 +/- 2.3 173 +/- 2.3 173 +/- 1.4 173 +/- 1.4\r\nWeight (kg) 94 +/- 12 90 +/- 14 95 +/- 9.5 95 +/- 9.1\r\nAbdominal circumference (cm) 106 +/- 11 103 +/- 12 105 +/- 8.8 105 +/- 8\r\nHip circumference (cm) 107 +/- 9 105 +/- 9 106 +/- 7.9 106 +/- 8.9\r\nAHO 0.99 +/- 0.05 0.99 +/- 0.04 0.99 +/- 0.04 0.99 +/- 0.04\r\nBMI (kg/m2) 31.4 +/- 3.6 30.3 +/- 4.08 31.5 +/- 3.19 31.6 +/- 3\r\nBF (%) 28.4 +/- 5.7 26.5 +/- 6 30.4 +/- 3.06 30.9 +/- 2.93\r\nGlucose (mg/dl) 125 +/- 43 110 +/- 41 123 +/- 36 122 +/-+/-35\r\nInsulin (µIU/ml) 9.3 +/- 2.65 7.1 +/- 3.77 9.4 +/- 1.43 9.29 +/- 1.74\r\nBeta cell function (HOMA-BF) 72 +/- 37 78 +/- 42 73 +/- 27 70 +/- 29\r\nInsulin sensitivity (HOMA-IS) 0.57 +/- 0.06 0.66 +/- 0.09 0.56 +/- 0.05 0.57 +/- 0.05\r\n \r\nDISCUSSION\r\nIn the present study, a three-month aerobic exercise has not led to significant changes in beta-cells function in patients with asthma. In other words, long-term program of aerobic exercise did not affect beta-cells function in asthmatic patients. The National Heart and Lung Association and the World Health Organization defined asthma as a chronic inflammatory disease of the respiratory pathways, in which some cells, particularly mast cells, eosinophils, and T lymphocytes play an important role in its prevalence [15]. In contrast to the findings of this research, i.e. alteration of beta-cells function in asthmatic patients, there are some studies, performed on healthy and sick people, which have reported significant increases in the function of beta-cells in response to short- and long-term training programs. For example, in one study, the researchers stated that physical activity improves glucose homeostasis through not only decreasing insulin resistance, but also increasing the mass and the function of beta-cells [16].\r\nIn this context, some studies have shown improvement in beta-cells function in response to weight loss in type-2 diabetics [17, 18]. However, its response to diet- or exercise-induced weight loss in healthy obese individuals was less studied. The effect of weight loss on beta-cells function is less known, however, several studies have reported improvement in this variable due to weight loss [19, 20]. In contrast to this evidence, in the present study, the function of beta-cells was not altered in the presence of a significant reduction in weight, body fat percentage, and BMI, resulted from three months of aerobic exercise. Increased insulin resistance in patients with asthma has been reported in some studies [21]. However, in a recent study performed in men with mild to moderate asthma, no significant association was observed between insulin resistance and spirometry parameters, which determine the severity of asthma [22]. Conflicting information have been reported about the association between asthma and type-2 diabetes [23]. However, in a recent study about the sensitivity to insulin in obese subjects with and without asthma, a particular association was found between asthma, obesity, and type-2 diabetes following observation of higher levels of insulin resistance in asthmatic obese subjects in comparison to non-asthmatic obese ones [24].\r\nIn a recent study, researchers stated that improved beta-cells function is closely associated with the maintenance of normal glucose and appears through exercise in hepatic and peripheral insulin resistance and blood glucose regulation [25]. \r\nHowever, in the present study, fasting blood glucose was significantly reduced in patients with asthma in the absence of changes in beta-cells function. This means that improvement in blood glucose in response to training programs in these patients is independent from changes in beta-cells function. This significant decrease in blood glucose in these patients following three months of aerobic exercise may be due to a decline in insulin resistance in them, because insulin resistance was significantly reduced in response to training program.\r\nAlthough some studies have reported improvement in beta-cells function and insulin resistance through short-term training programs [26], it is seems that significant improvement of these variables in healthy or sick obese people requires long-term training studies.\r\nIn general, the findings of the study showed that although three months of aerobic training leads to weight loss and decrease in body fat percent and fasting glucose levels in patients with asthma, the function of beta-cells is not affected in these patients. Significant improvement of glucose in the patients in response to training program can be attributed to the reduced sensitivity to insulin or direct and indirect effects of other hormonal variables such as peptide mediators. \r\n','Torabi Mohsen, Aran Ardabili Akbar and Gholamreza Najafi (2014). The Effect of Long-term Aerobic Training on Beta Cell Function in Asthma Patients. Biological Forum – An International Journal 6(2): 315-319.'),(4583,'120','Assessment of Credit Risk Management and Managerial Efficiency of Banks Using Data Envelopment Analysis (DEA) Network','Mohammad Ali Keramati and Mahsa Shaeri','53 MOHAMMAD ALI KERAMATI AND MAHSA SHAERI.pdf','',1,'Banking industry by providing credit facilities to other industries, plays an important role in the economy stems. Managers in the industry has been designed to increase the efficiency of lending, credit rating and ability to repay principal and interest for each customer\'s credit limit. The aim of this study is to evaluate credit risk management and performance management of the 19 banks supervised by the Central Bank of Tehran, Arak and Boroujerd cities. The study of network DEA models (with and without notice to the Credit Risk Management) has been designed to assess the studied Banks. To collect data for this study 10 branches of banks were randomly selected and the importance of credit risk management and assessment questionnaire is completed by branch managers. Data analysis was performed using DEA Solver Software. The results suggest that attention to credit risk management in the banking industry affect on performance of banks.','Credit risk management, performance management, network and data envelopment analysis (DEA), the banking industry.','The aim of this study is to evaluate banks\' risk management, managerial efficiency using data envelopment analysis network In other words, this study is an attempt to rank the banks based on risk management by managers. According to the obtained results in this study, the highest score of risk management activities belongs to banks. And most banks try to minimize the credit risk of lending to customers of its entities. On the other hand banks in the ranking of network data envelopment analysis model network with respect to credit risk management implies that banks of Iran Zamin, Mellat, Saderat have the highest performance. The interpretation of the results can be paraphrased as the managers of these banks, check the accounts and savings of customers data before loans are paid. However these managers to ensure the repayment of loans granted, seek an acceptable pledge from individual or legal entities who have taken the loans. Given that those requesting the loan are of natural or legal entities. Bank managers prior to the lending loans, try to find information about the method of financing, wages, bank accounts and assets of individuals who are applying for a loan.\r\nAlso, if the loan applicant, is a legal client, managers before lending the loan try to review the company\'s profit and loss statement, statement of income, assets and liabilities of the company.\r\nOn the other hand the importance of credit risk management by banks of Iran Zamin, Mellat and you can keep some of the funds to repay the loan in default if the borrower\'s account deduced. Generally managers that risk management is of high importance for them In addition, special attention to the above issues, the give importance to “Control of financial ratios (as ratio of instantaneous, average repayment period and inventory turnover) After spending the loan to companies to avoid spending load in risky activities” \"Careful study of how to collect the checks used by the customer before the loan payments\". And \"lack of lending to high values even if the borrower is willing to pay a higher interest rate\". In General the researcher suggests that banks have to make a decision about granting credit to customers, indicators like 1) The code for the client to receive the credit loans, 2) Inquiry the central bank and the banking system to assess the obligations and liabilities of all banks, 3) Credit questionnaires filled out by employees of the credit cycle, 4) Surveying financial statements and tax, 5) evaluation of the bail, 6) average of the account balance of customer in the branch and 7) Understanding the customer which obtained in a long run.\r\n','Banking system plays an important role in economy, because in addition to this, banks act as mediators of funds in monetary market and due to the inadequate development of the capital market they play an essential role in financing and long and mid-term economic plans. In general it can be stated that the most important activities of banks is collection and allocation of financial resources to different sectors of the economy (George and Shoury, 1987). But it should be noted that this funding on the one hand, the bank needs to provide facilities and these funds meet the needs of banking facilities, on the other hand, banks that have limited financial resources, should optimally allocate the means to provide services which means the efficiency level of the firm. Based on the economic theories, efficiency is a result of optimizing the production and allocation of resources. Equipping and allocation of investment resources in economic activities are done through financial markets that credit market is part of this market. Hence role of the banking system in the process of economic development of countries to mobilize financial resources for the implementation of projects, providing working capital, mortgage loans, reducing the basic needs of the population and prevent the deepening of economic, investment and employment, is so important that maintaining the financial health of banks must be the first priority of the national economy of countries. It should be noted that the financial and banking system, according to its own characteristics, are facing with a variety of risks, including credit risk, liquidity risk and market risk. So identifying and controlling the amount and rate of each of these risks is important in its own place (Mehrara and Mehranfar, 2013). With the continuous and dynamic development of the credit industry every day, the industry plays a more important role in the national economy and creditors are using new tools and technologies for developing credit management process. Validation and assessment of the repayment capacity of clients using advanced statistical techniques and methods are among the efforts that have been done in this area. Accreditation means the assessment of repayment capacity of the loan applicant and the likelihood of repayment of the financial facilities and funds received by them .The model for measuring credit risk rating was performed on the bonds in 1909 by John Murray. Given the importance of credit risk in the banking industry, in this study we tried to evaluate the credit risk management activities and performance management in banks and then using the data envelopment analysis model for ranking of database network is performed with or without paying attention to indicators of credit risk management.\r\n \r\n\r\n Keramati and Shaeri 321\r\n \r\nTHEORETICAL FRAMEWORK AND RESEARCH BACKGROUND \r\nA. Risk and Credit Risk Management\r\nThe word “risk” refers to the probability of happening of danger, injury, income fall and loss. Risk means uncertainty about the outcome of a case in the future or unexpected events, which usually is a change in the assets, or debts. In general, risk means the probability of loss arising from uncertainty in the lack of certainty in the full knowledge and accurate and comprehensive understanding of the world around us. Risk phenomena in many areas of application can be propounded and banks are one of the main areas that are crucial to the economy because they are considered important in this scope (Mehrara & Mehranfar, 2013). Due to the variety of banking activities, researchers and scholars have no consensus on the types of risks in banking operations. Some experts believe credit risk, interest rate risk and liquidity risk are among the risks of the banking operations while others contend that market risk, credit risk, liquidity risk, operational risk, legal risk and risk factors are among the most important human-risk banking operations (Mirzaei & coworkers, 2011). Figure 1 shows range of risks in the banking industry.\r\n \r\nProviding financial facilities is considered as one of the most important activities in the banking system. In other words, banks intend to grant loans to those companies that have a low risk of return and can return proportional to profit facilities. This is attained when the banks are able to identify their credit customers (natural or legal) and Classify them based on the ability and inclination towards full and timely repayment (John et al 1998). For granting the facilities, credit rating and ability to repay principal and interest amount of credit should be determined for facility recipient. The likelihood that the borrower fails to repay the loan is called credit risk, or the risk of non-repayment (Sinky & Joseph, 1992). Credit risk is of the oldest and largest of risks which exist in transactions and means the risk of losing the granted credit by failure to pay the debts by borrowers (Oryani 1984). In other words credit risks means repayments of customers to banks about received facilities may be done with postponements or even not received at all and this can cause some problems for cash flow and liquidity management (Shamsodini, 2010). It is evident that prevailing in credit risk is associated with economic mechanisms. Consequently, most banks consider internal rating system for borrowers.\r\n \r\nOn the subject of credit risk, management risk becomes significant. Credit risk management is a process through which the losses from defaulted loans over the business cycle can be calculated quantitatively including the following steps: (i) Calculation of avoiding payment of consumer loans by means of quantitative models (ii) Calculation of payment avoidance using statistical models. (iii) Evaluation of the model using data from past periods. According to Switzerland Basel Committee the objective of credit risk management is to optimize the modified efficiency of the bank based on credit risk and also controlling the danger of credit risk through accepted parameters. Today, most banks and financial and credit institutions are somehow involved in credit granting. Usually one of the methods according to their circumstances and the surrounding community is selected for credit ranking .With regard to observations, most banks over the country use Judgment method to determine the credit risk of customers. In this way, management uses its judgment and logic, the final decision making and this decision may noy be close to reality as it should be. Hence the authors suggest that bank managers use quantitative models for their credit risk rating. Most quantitative models of credit risk have similar conceptual framework and the significant difference of these models refer to the method of estimation of basic parameters of available information. Generally the credit risk measurement techniques can be divided into two main groups (Kiss, 2013). (i) parametric credit scoring (as Liner probability model, Logit model, Probit model discriminate analysis model) and (ii) Non parametric credit scoring models (as mathematical planning, tree classification), classification trees (recursive partitioning algorithms) nearest neighbors model, analytical hierarchy process (AHP), expert system, artificial neural network, genetic algorithm. But in the meantime, the DEA considered several aspects that include: (i) Data envelopment a analysis method (DEA), this is an easy and simple approach and for its specific performance this method can obtain an accurate credit decision based on trust and satisfaction attract our customers (Mehrgan 2004). (ii) In this technique there is no need to assign weights to the criteria (data output), because DEA automatically creates the associated weights, removing the allocation of weights gives more momentum to the performance evaluation process (Cheng et al 2007). \r\n\r\nUnlike parametric methods, with making averages comparing with units of the best performance reaches the set of units under study. DEA optimize each of the observations in comparison with efficient frontier and all observations are collected and used to measure efficiency stems. 4) the last advantage of this method is using practical date and information. Unlike the well-known methods such as multiple discriminant analysis, logistic regression and neural networks that require rank-rating data for the purpose of predictions, uses the actual data collection and practical approach to data envelopment analysis (input-output).\r\nB. Data envelopment analysis\r\nData envelopment analysis is a technique to calculate the relative efficiency of a set of homogeneous decision making units which is done using mathematical programming. The term “relative” is for this reason that performance is result of comparing units with each other . When we say that the decision-making unit is Pth of performance it means that the unit is working well and using good resource. In data envelopment analysis there is no need to assign weights to the inputs and outputs because this method determine the weights. In other words, for every single decision it considers most favorable set of weights i.e the set of weights relative efficiency of decision making units without increasing the performance ratio of the maximum decision. In other words, it helps decision makers to categorize in the efficient and inefficient decision making units into two groups. One of the features of data envelopment analysis is the structure of return to scale. According to this, the technique is divided to CCR and BCC . Return to scale can be constant or variable. Constant return to scale means that an increase in output leads to increased proportionally to the amount of input. In the variable return to scale, output increases more or less than the increase in input. CCR model, is one of the models of constant returns to scale. Using the constant returns to scale model, is suitable when all the conditions of competition and restrictions are the same for all units. Farrell in relative measurement units to construct a virtual single unit focused on total harmonious unit. And as a means for measuring the technical efficiency, suggested the following relationship:\r\n\r\nEfficiency = Total weighted out/ Total weighted\r\nIf the goal is to evaluate the efficacy of n units, each having m input and s output, Efficiency of the j-th (j = 1,2, ..., n) is computed as follows:\r\n\r\n \r\nThat:\r\nXij= The i-th input to the j-th unit (i = 1, 2, ..., m)\r\nYrj= I j-th unit of output r (r = 1, 2, ..., s)\r\nUr= weight given to r output (r th output prices)\r\nVi= Weight given to input i th (i is an entrance fee)\r\n\r\nThe important matter in the above relation is that this performance evaluation tool requires a set of weights that will be used for all units under study two points should be noted in this relation. First, the value of inputs and outputs can be different and difficult to measure. On the other hand it is possible to organize their operations in a manner different units that outputs are provided with different values so they need different weights in measuring the performance. Charnz, Cooper and Rhodes recognized the above problems and to solve this allocated inputs and outputs to this model and proposed the units that can accept weights that are more suitable and clear comparing to other units.\r\nUnder these conditions, the model for the evaluation of the unit under study, then we call it a zero units, is obtained by Solving the following linear programming model which is called the CCR model. Suppose there are n units are available for the model and the goal is evaluating the performance of the unit under study (single zero) or a decision making unit. The inputs x_10,x_20,…,x_mo To produce outputs use y_10,y_20,…,y_so. If the weights assigned to the outputs of u_1,u_2,…,u_s and the weights assigned to the inputs with v_1,v_2,…,v_m The maximum deduction shall be shown below\r\n(∑_(r=1)^s▒〖u_r y_r0 〗)/(∑_(i=1)^m▒〖v_i x_i0 〗)\r\nThis operation must be performed for other units. Thus, the mathematical model for each unit (j=1, 2, …, n) is as follow :\r\n MaxZ_0= (∑_(r=1)^s▒〖u_r y_r0 〗)/(∑_(i=1)^m▒〖v_i x_i0 〗)\r\nSt: (∑_(r=1)^s▒〖u_r y_rj 〗)/(∑_(i=1)^m▒〖v_i x_ij 〗) ≤1u_r ,v_i ≥0\r\n\r\nWights are the variable of above problem and the answer calculate the most appropriate amounts for weights of zero units and performance (Alam Tabriz & Mohammed Rahimi, 2010).\r\nRESEARCH QUESTIONS\r\n1. How the risk management activities and performance management in banks would be?\r\n2. How the rated banks with respect to credit risk management index using data envelopment analysis network would be?\r\n3. How the rated banks with respect to credit risk management index using data envelopment analysis network would be?\r\nRESEARCH METHODOLOGY\r\nThe present study is based on the outcome or target, is of application research and in terms of method belongs to descriptive researches.\r\nIn this study, literature studies were used in order to form the basis of definitions and theoretical concepts. Also, in order to extract facts and figures required by banks we used experimental method (Using the database of the Central Bank). In order to collect the required data in relation to the Bank\'s risk management field method was used. The population of the study are the Banks supervised by the Central Bank of Iran. Given the possibility to extract the required data from the data banks, of 28 public and private banks operating in the country, A total of 19 banks (Ansar, Iran Zamin, Parsian, Pasargad, Post Bank, Tejarat, Tose Saderat, Hekmat Iranian, Day, Saman, Sepah, Sina, Shahr, Saderat, Mehre Iran, Gardeshgari, Mellat and Meli) have been studied. Also the questionnaire of calculating the risk management, from 10 branch offices in the cities of Tehran, Arak and Borujerd been completed. \r\nFor the purpose collecting data in this research, data tables and profit and loss statements of banks were used and Credit Risk Management Questionnaire of Khalil Araghi was also used. This questionnaire measure the amount importance of bank managers toward factors as 1) Screening and monitoring, 2) establish a long term relationship with our customers, 3) loan commitments, 4) security, 5) compensating balance requirements, and 6) rationing. The questionnaire included 11 questions with 5 scales the sum of responses to questions from a moderator, and the score would be the one that He would obtain in the credit risk management.\r\n \r\n\r\nThe scores range would be from 11 to 55. Finally, the mean score for managers of bank branches are considered as the final score. The resulted score indicate the importance that bank managers consider for the credit risk. That is, the higher the score, the higher accuracy of the directors of that bank examination for the customers credit risk .For analyzing the data of this research we used DEA and DEA Solver software. In this study, two models are provided to measure the effectiveness of each bank. The first model, measures each of the bank\'s management efficiency, regardless of the risk management (figure 2) and the second model, measures the performance of each of the bank\'s management with respect to risk management (Figure 3). Thus, using a three-stage model with fixed inputs and outputs, each of the banks\' performance is measured. Criteria used as input and output in both models, is considered according to Matthews Studies (2013). Figure 2 shows the three-step model for measuring the management performance, regardless of the risk management.\r\n \r\n\r\nAs can be seen in figure 2, The main inputs (operating expenses, fixed assets and deposits) and the final outputs (interest income and non-interest income) exist. Firstly, operating expenses and fixed assets are used to create a time and materials (computers, construction, electricity, etc). Personnel costs and other operating costs, intermediate outputs are in the first stage and intermediate inputs are in the second stage of production. The input of the second stage are combined with deposits to make the interest costs related to the number of branches (Output of the second stage and the main inputs in third stage). Banks need for workforce, materials and supplies as initial inputs to achieve the profits from lending and banking services. Interest on deposits, is a tool to attract deposits by banks, so It is viewed as an input in the second stage. Bank branches are located in areas that attract business customers for paying bank services and deposit services and loans. Furthermore, in combination with primary and intermediate inputs produced in the second stage, banks charge fees for financial services to their customers. These fees are non-interest income produced as a final output. Costs arising from interest and number of branches, intermediate inputs of production are interest income in the third stage (final output of second stage). On the other hand, the output of inefficient loans is included as the main input in the final stage. Finally the main product of a bank, are the loans that the credit quality of them are extracted from type and quality of credit. It should be noted that in each stage of the network model an output-oriented CCR model is analyzed. Three-step model for measuring management performance, With regard to the risk management, First and second steps are exactly the same as the previous model, but in the third, the risk management score in each of the banks which achieved by the extend of bank managements notice to risk management questionnaire based on risk management criteria, is included as one of the main inputs of the third stage. And the efficiency of banks is measured with respect to the new input (Fig. 3).\r\nNote that in the models mentioned above, the average output stages can be considered as an overall output and the final ranking is done on this basis.\r\nRESULTS AND FINDINGS\r\nThe first question is: How the score of managerial efficiency and banks\' risk management activities would be? In order to calculate the risk management activities and performance management in banks, A questionnaire, completed by the management bank branches or banks\' credit management, was used .In this questionnaire the extent of importance that management considers for credit risk activities is evaluated and \r\n\r\nscored. In this way, each of the activities is posed in the form of a question and a rating is assigned to it using Likert Scale. Finally, the average of each bank branch management comments is computed and will be considered as the final score for each question. Finally Total achieved scores from questions is approved as the bank\'s risk management activities. The score of bank\'s credit risk management activities is shown in Table 1.\r\nThe Second question of research:\r\nHow would be the rating of banks with respect to credit risk management index using data envelopment analysis network?\r\nIn order to rank the banks using DEA a three-stage model is used (Figure 2). In this model, at each stage, and output measures as intended criteria as input and output are considered. Results of analysis in each step, is obtained with help of output-oriented CCR model. And finally the average results of the three stages is calculated and the final ranking is done. Table 2 shows the scores obtained in each stage and finally the rating of each bank is done regardless of credit risk management index.\r\nThe third question of the research:\r\nHow would be the rating of banks with respect to credit risk management index using data envelopment analysis network?\r\nIndicator of credit risk management in the third stage DEA model network, entered the model as an input (Fig. 3). So The results obtained in steps 1 and 2 are unchanged and the third part of the analysis with regard to the management of credit risk is assessed again. Table 3 shows the scores obtained in each stage and finally score and rating of each bank with respect to credit risk management index.\r\n \r\n\r\n','Mohammad Ali Keramati and Mahsa Shaeri (2014). Assessment of Credit Risk Management and Managerial Efficiency of Banks Using Data Envelopment Analysis (DEA) Network. Biological Forum – An International Journal 6(2): 320-328.'),(4584,'120','Effects of Different Doses of Cerastes cerastes Crude Venom on Biochemical Parameters in Serum of Guinea pigs at different times','Muhammad M.A. Salman','54 MUHAMMAD M.A. SALMAN author.pdf','',1,'In the present work we studied the effects of Cerastes cerastes (Cc) crude venom on serum biochemical parameters of Guinea pigs (Cavia porcellus). 30 males Guinea pigs weighing 300 ± 30 g. were divided into three groups (10 each). In the control group the Guinea pigs were injected interaperitoneally (i.p) with 100 µL saline solutions. The second group was i. p. injected with 0.2 µgm/g. b.w. of crude venom in 100 µL saline solutions. The third group was i.p. injected with 0.4 µgm/g. b.w. of crude venom in 100 µL saline solution. The results indicated that, after injection of the single dose of Cc crude venom, induced a significant decrease in total serum protein, albumin, globulin and uric acid within 12 and 24 hr. On contrary, levels of serum glucose, cholesterol, triglycerides, urea, creatinine, alanine amino transferase (ALT), aspartate aminotransferase (AST) and alkaline phosphatase (ALP) were elevated in serum of envenomated Guinea pigs after 12 and 24 hours post-injection of Cc crude venom. In addition, Cc crude venom caused hepatic and renal dysfunction in envenomated Guinea pigs. These disturbances remained for at least 24 hr after envenomation, regardless of the used dose.','Envenomation, Cerastes cerastes, crude venom, biochemical parameters, different doses and Guinea pigs (Cavia porcellus). ','In the present work we studied the effects of Cerastes cerastes (Cc) crude venom on serum biochemical parameters of Guinea pigs (Cavia porcellus). 30 males Guinea pigs weighing 300 ± 30 g. were divided into three groups (10 each). In the control group the Guinea pigs were injected interaperitoneally (i.p) with 100 µL saline solutions. The second group was i. p. injected with 0.2 µgm/g. b.w. of crude venom in 100 µL saline solutions. The third group was i.p. injected with 0.4 µgm/g. b.w. of crude venom in 100 µL saline solution. The results indicated that, after injection of the single dose of Cc crude venom, induced a significant decrease in total serum protein, albumin, globulin and uric acid within 12 and 24 hr. On contrary, levels of serum glucose, cholesterol, triglycerides, urea, creatinine, alanine amino transferase (ALT), aspartate aminotransferase (AST) and alkaline phosphatase (ALP) were elevated in serum of envenomated Guinea pigs after 12 and 24 hours post-injection of Cc crude venom. In addition, Cc crude venom caused hepatic and renal dysfunction in envenomated Guinea pigs. These disturbances remained for at least 24 hr after envenomation, regardless of the used dose.','There are approximately 420 venomous species of snakes living on the earth (Lewis and Gutmann, 2004). It is worthy to mention that, intra-specific venom disparity takes place among individual snakes, due to seasonal variation, diet, habitat, age, and sexual dimorphism Venom variability occurs at a number of ambits including inter-and intra-species variations (Tan and Ponnudurai, 1990 and Sasa, 1999). Additionally, venom components may be altered by the geographical location and habitat of the snake (Zingali et al., 1993; Sasa, 1999 and Salazar et al., 2007). Furthermore, zoological distribution and environmental condition could influence the overall biological behavior of snake venoms of the same species (Hassan et al., 1980 and Warrell, 1997). \r\nThe desert horned vipers (C. cerastes and C. gasperettii) are the most familiar snakes of the great deserts of North Africa and the Middle East (Gasperetti, 1988 and Schneemann et al., 2004). Viper snakes are widely distributed snakes in Africa (Marsh et al., 1997 a and b). Viper C. cerastes is commonly known as desert-horned or Egyptian sand Viper (Soslau et al., 1988 and Chippaux et al., 1991). It is a poisonous snake and as its name implies, inhabits the sandy deserts of Egypt (Zimmerman et al., 1981). Several studies have been made on the metabolic, cardiovascular and hematological effects of viper venoms on man and animals (Tilbury et al., 1987; Soslau et al., 1988; Abu-Sinna et al., 1993; Abdul-Nabi et al., 1997; Fahim, 1998 and Al-Jammaz et al., 1999). In contrast, there is a paucity of information on the effects of the viper C. cerastes crude venom on biochemical parameters of Guinea pigs. Schneemann et al. (2004) reported that there is a small literature on envenoming by desert horned vipers. So, the present study is planned to investigate the effects of two different doses of the C. cerastes crude venom on the biochemical parameters in serum of Guinea pigs.\r\nMATERIAL AND METHODS\r\nCrude venom was obtained from the viper C. cerastes kept in a serpentarium at the Department of Zoology, Faculty of Science, and South Valley University. The snakes were collected from the Qena region of Egypt. Venom was milked, lyophilized, stored in a desiccator at 4ºC in the dark and reconstituted in saline solution prior to use.\r\n A. Determination of LD50 dose\r\nThe approximate median lethal dose (LD50) of the crude venom was calculated according to the method described by Meier and Theakston (1986).\r\n\r\n \r\n Salman 330\r\n \r\nB. Experimental animals\r\nThirty male Guinea pigs (Cavia porcellus) weighing 300 ±30 g. were used. Guinea pigs were obtained from the Animal House Facility of the Egyptian Organization for Biological Products and Vaccines (VACSERA), Helwan, Cairo, Egypt. Animals were housed in standard condition and fed with normal diet and water ad libitum. \r\nThe experimental procedures, animal care and research ethics has been approved by the scientific committee at the Faculty of Science, South Valley University. The Guinea pigs were divided randomly into three groups as the following:\r\nGroup 1: Ten animals were injected interaperitoneally (i.p.) with 100 µL physiological saline (0.9 % Na Cl) and served as a control.\r\nGroup 2: Ten animals were i.p. injected of a single low dose of Cc crude venom in 100 µL saline solution containing 0.66 mg/kg body weight.\r\nGroup 3: Ten animals were i.p. a single high dose of Cc crude venom in 100 µL saline solution according to Salman (2009; 2010 and 2011).\r\n Five animals of each group (1, 2 and 3) were sacrificed at 12 and 24 hours, after injection of crude venom (Al-Jammaz et al., 1999)\r\nSerum analysis: The animals were sacrificed and blood was collected from each animal into plain centrifuge tubes, left for one hr. at room temperature to clotting. Serum was separated by centrifugation at 3000 g for 30 min. and analyzed, for the concentration of total protein, albumin, globulin, alanine transaminase (ALT), aspartate transaminase (AST), alkaline phosphatase (ALP), urea, creatinine, uric acid, glucose, cholesterol and triglycerides determination. Kits were purchased from Spinreact, S.A. Ctra. Santa Coloma, Spain. \r\nAll other chemicals used were of analytical reagent grade. Glucose determination was carried out according to the method Trinder (1969). Determination of total serum protein was estimated according to Peters (1968) method. Serum albumin was determined according to the method described by Doumas et al., (1971 and 1972). Serum globulin was obtained from the difference between the total serum protein and serum albumin. Cholesterol was determined by enzymatic method as described by Richmond (1973), while triglycerides were determined by the enzymatic colorimetric method as described by Young (1972). Creatinine was determined by kinetic method described by Hare (1950), while determination of urea was according to the enzymatic method of Patton and Crouch (1977). Serum uric acid was determined by quantitative determination method of Fossati et al., (1980). The principle of determination of transaminases (ALT and AST) activities was based on the methods of Reitman and Frankel (1957), while determination of alkalin (ALP) activities was done according to the enzymatic method of El-Aaser and El-Merzabani (1975). \r\nC. Statistical analysis\r\nData were statistically analyzed using SPSS Software and presented as means and standard error (Mean ± S.E.). Parameters of groups 2 and 3 were compared to control group using one way analysis of variance test. Results were considered significant when p value was lower than 0.05.\r\nRESULTS\r\nA. Lethality test: \r\nResults indicated that the approximate (LD50) of the venom is equal to 0.66 mg/kg (0.66 µg/g) body weight (Fig. 1).\r\n1. Effects of two different doses of viper C. cerastes crude venom on the levels of serum total protein, albumin and globulin.\r\nA) Total protein content in serum: In group 3, the Administration of single dose crude venom 0.4 µgm/g body weight led to decrease the level of serum total protein at the 12th and 24th hours after venom injection. These decreases were 21.57 % (P<0.05) and 28.46 % (P<0.01) at the 12th and 24th hours, respectively. However, in group 2 the injection 0.2 µgm/g of crude venom body weight (group 2), serum total protein level insignificant decreased (1.96%) after 12 hours, but it was significant decrease 20.53% (p<0.05) at the 24th hours as compared with those of control animals. \r\nB) Serum albumin content: In gruop3 serum albumin level significantly decreased, the decreases were significant 13.04% (p<0.05) at the 12th and 23.75% (p<0.01) at the 24th hours post-injection. Meanwhile, serum albumin level in group2 decreased at 12th, the decrease was insignificant (-2.32%) while at the 24th the decrease of serum albumin was significant 12.02% (p<0.05) as compared with those of control (Table, 1).\r\n C) Serum globulin content: In group 3, serum globulin levels significantly reduced (p<0.01) the decreases were 30.82% and 33.55% at the 12th and 24th hours respectively in envenomed Guinea pig. However, in group2 there was insignificant decrease at the 12th (-1.57% (but, this decrease was statistically significant decrease 29.90% (p<0.01) at 24th, post-injection as compared with those of control (Table, 1).\r\n2. Effects of two different doses of crude venom injected (i.p.) on the levels of creatinine, urea and uric acid.\r\nA) Serum creatinine content: Both groups 2 and 3 showed an increase in serum creatinine at the 12th and 24th hours, post-injection as compared with those controls. In group2 statistically significant increases were 22.22% (p<0.05) and 75.51% (p<0.01) after 12th and 24th hours, respectively. In group3 the increases were 77.78% (p<0.01) and 165.31% (p<0.001) after 12th and 24th hours, respectively post-injection as compared with those controls (Table, 2).\r\nB) Serum urea: Statistically significant changes in serum urea levels were found increase both in groups 2 and 3. Serum urea levels increased at the 12th and 24th hours as compared with those of control. The increases in group2 were 51.26% (p<0.01) and112.43% (p<0.001) after 12th and 24th hours, respectively. Also, the increases in group3 were 86.16% (p<0.01) and141.12% (p<0.001) after 12th and 24th hours, respectively after injection as compared with those of control Guinea pigs (Table, 2). \r\nC) Serum uric acid content: The levels of serum uric acid in (groups 1 and 2) decreased at the 12th and 24th \r\nhours in envenomed Guinea pigs. Statically significant difference was observed in group2 at the 12th and 24th hours 18.75% (P<0.05) and 35.29% (P<0.01), respectively. The decreases in group3 were 37.5% (P<0.05) and 50% (P<0.01) after 12th and 24th hours, respectively pos-injection as compared with those of control (Table, 2). \r\n3. Effects of two different doses of crude venom injected (i.p.) on the levels of serum glucose, cholesterol and triglycerides.\r\nA) The levels of serum glucose: Serum glucose levels increased at the 12th and 24th hours, post-injection in groups 2 and 3 compared with those of controls. Statistically significant changes in serum glucose levels were found in group2 significant increase at the 12th (21.63 %) and (18.97%) at 24th hours (P<0.05). However, in group3 the increases were significantly at the 12th (42.57%) and (47.36%) 24th hours, (P<0.01) as compared with those of control. \r\nB) The levels of serum cholesterol: The venom effects on serum cholesterol levels led to increase after 12th and 24th hours post-injection in group2. The statistically of these increases were (187.8%; P<0.001 and 191.3%; P<0.001) respectively as compared with those of control. Meanwhile, in group3 serum cholesterol changes were highly significant 171.51% (P<0.001) and 186.4% (P<0.001) after 12 and 24 hours, respectively as compared with those of control (Table, 3).\r\nC) The levels of serum triglycerides: The injection of crude venom 0.2 µgm/g. body weight (group2) and 0.4 µgm/g. body weight (group3) led to increases in serum triglycerides levels at the 12th and 24th hours after injection. These increases of group2 was 173.3% (P<0.001) at 12th and 173.3 % (P<0.001) at 24th hours post-injection. The increases in serum triglycerides of group3 were 197% (P<0.001) and 192% (P<0.001) at 12th and 24th hours post-injection, respectively, when compared to those of control (Table, 3).\r\n4. Effects of (i.p) injection of different doses of viper C. cerastes crude venom on the levels of serum alanine aminotransferase (ALT), aspartate aminotransferase (AST) and alkaline phosphatase (ALP):\r\nA) serum alanine aminotransferase (ALT): The injection of crude venom 0.2 µgm/g. body weight (group 2) and 0.4 µgm/g. body weight (group 3) led to increases in serum alanine aminotransferase (ALT) levels at the 12th and 24th hours after injection. These increases of group 2 were 92.63% (P<0.01) and 72.31% (P<0.01) at 12th and 24th hours, respectively after injection and the increases of group3 were 140.75% (P<0.001) and 127.77% (P<0.001) at 12th and 24th hours, respectively post-injection as compared with those of control guinea pigs (Table, 4).\r\n\r\n\r\n \r\n\r\n Salman 332\r\n \r\nB) Serum aspartate aminotransferase (AST): The injection of crude venom 0.2 µgm/g. body weight (group2) and 0.4 µgm/g. body weight (group3) led to increases in serum aspartate aminotransferase (AST) levels at the 12th and 24th hours after injection. \r\nThese increases of group2 were 28.29% (P<0.05) and 22.93% (P<0.05) at 12th and 24th hours, respectively and the increases of group3 were 37.12% (P<0.05) and 31.60% (P<0.05) at 12th and 24th hours, respectively post-injection as compared with those of control (Table, 4). \r\nC) Serum alkaline phosphatase (ALP): The injection of crude venom 0.2 µgm/g. body weight (group2) and 0.4 µgm/g. body weight (group3) led to increases in serum alkaline phosphatase (ALP) levels at the 12th and 24th hours after injection. \r\nThese increases of group2 were 45.56% (P<0.01) and 39.67% (P<0.05) at 12th and 24th hours, respectively and the increases of group3 were 58.46 % (P<0.01) and 44.69% (P<0.01) at 12th and 24th hours, respectively post-injection as compared with those of control guinea pigs (Table, 4). \r\n \r\nDISCUSSION\r\nIn the present study, results indicated that, the approximate (LD50) of the venom is equal to 0.66 mg/kg body weight. Several investigators reported that, venom components may be altered by the geographical location and habitat of the snake (Zingali et al., 1993; Sasa, 1999 and Salazar et al., 2007). Furthermore, It variability occurs at a number of ambits including inter-and intra-species variations (Sasa, 1999). Therefore, the difference in LD50 attributed to either the species or the environment.\r\nThe major functions of protein are maintenance of the intravascular osmotic pressure, maintenance of the blood pressure and fluids in the circulation. They also carry out transport and storage function for several minerals, growth factors and hormones (West, 1985; Marinova et al., 1991 and Guyton and Hall, 2000). However, low total protein can result from protein loss, as it occurs in hemorrhage, glomerulonephritis, nephrosis and chronic liver disease (Al-Jammaz, 1995 and Al-Sadoon and Fahim, 2012). The present study revealed that, the injection of crude venom of viper C. cerastes causes a reduction in serum total proteins, albumin, globulin and uric acid in envenomated Guinea pigs. Several investigators reported that, the reduction in serum total proteins, albumin, globulin and uric acid in envenomated rats and Guinea pig were in laboratory animals injected with viper snake venoms (Abdul-Nabi et al., 1997; Fahim 1998; Al-Jammaz et al., 1998, 1999). The reduced levels of these serum constituents could be due to disturbances in renal functions as well as haemorrhages in some internal organs. In fact, the increasing in vascular permeability and haemorrhages in vital organs due to the toxic action of various snake venoms were described by (Al-Sadoon, 1991; Meier and Stocker 1991; March et al., 1997 a and b; Al-Sadoon and Fahim, 2012). It worthy to mention that, several studies have been made on the metabolic, cardiovascular and hematological effects of viper venoms on man and experimental animals (Tilbury et al., 1987; Soslau et al., 1988; Abu-Sinna et al., 1993; Abdel-Nabi et al., 1997 and Fahim, 1998), and found that, various venoms viper cause alterations of rat and Guinea pig metabolism (Al-Jammaz et al., 1998, 1999; Salman 2009). Additionally, Tilbury et al., (1987) reported that, acute renal failure characterized by vascular lesions and tubular necrosis in the renal cortex following various snake bites. In the present study, the rise in serum urea and creatinine levels indicates impairment of renal function. Similar observations were reported in rats following administration of various viper venoms (Abdel-Nabi, 1993; Rahmy et al., 1995; Omran et al., 1997; Abdel-Nabi et al., 1997 and Schneemann et al., 2004). Such increased vascular permeability, together with, renal damage would further aggravate the accompanying hypoproteinemia and hypoalbuminaemia. Furthermore, the rise in serum urea and creatinine associated with the reduction of serum uric acid level observed, in the present study, supports the proposed impairment of renal function. Similar observations were reported following various viper envenomation of rats (Sant and Purandare, 1972; Rahmy et al., 1995; Abdel-Nabi et al., 1997 and Omran et al., 1997).\r\n In the present study, snake venoms caused an increase in serum glucose level in the envenomated animals. Snake venoms were found to produce hyperglyceamia in rats and mice (Mohamed et al., 1980 and 1981; Abdel-Nabi et al., 1997; Fahim, 1998 and Al-Jammaz et al., 1999; Pung et al., 2005 and Sleat et al., 2006). The levels of serum glucose were significantly increase after 12 and 24 hours in the envenomated Guinea pigs. The increases in serum glucose levels could be attributed to the effects of the venom on glycogen metabolism in the hepatocytes, muscle fibers and medullary catecholamines that stimulate glycogenolysis and gluconeogenesis in those tissues (Ohhira et al., 1991, Abdel-Nabi et al., 1997 and March et al., 1997 a and b). \r\nThe present study has revealed significantly increased in serum cholesterol and triglycerides levels in envenomated Guinea pigs following viper C. cerastes injection after 12 and 24 hrs. (Table 3). The observed in serum cholesterol and triglycerides indicated that plasma lipids are possible targets for the C. cerastes venom. Phospholipase A2 hydrolyzes phospholipids, mainly hosphatidylethanolamine, liberating polyunsaturated triglycerides (El-Hakim et al., 2008). The increases in serum cholesterol and triglycerides levels in envenomated Guinea pig could be due to the hepatocytes damage rendering them unable to phosphorylate the increasing amounts of fatty acids, hence leading to fatty liver and alteration of cell membranes of tissues (El-Asmar et al., 1979; Al-Sadoon and Fahim, 2012 and Al-Sadoon et al., 2013). Several investigators who reported that, the increases in serum cholesterol and triglycerides levels envenomated rats and Guinea pig were in laboratory animals injected with viper snake venoms (Abdel-Nabi et al., 1997 and Al-Jammaz, 2002, Salman, 2009). They reported that, the snake venom might have mobilized level lipids from adipose and other tissues. Lipolytic enzymes could have split tissue lipid with the liberation of free fatty acids (Abdel-Nabi et al., 1997; Al-Jammaz, 2002 and Tohamy et al., 214). \r\n \r\n \r\n\r\n\r\n Salman 337\r\n \r\nMeasurement of the serum enzyme activities are important in assessment of vital organs, and crude snake venoms have been shown to affect the activities of several serum enzymes (Mohamed et al., 1980; Al-Jammaz et al., 1992; Abdel-Nabi et al., 1997 and Fahim, 1998). Those enzyme activities fluctuate following the damage to liver, myocardial and skeletal muscles (Mohamed et al., 1981). In the present study, the rise in the activities of ALT, ALP and AST indicate the damage of liver, heart and other organs brought about by the venom. Such findings are in agreement with previous reports on venoms of other snake species such as Echis carinatus, viper B. arietans, Walterinessia aegyptia, Echis coloratusis, Cerastes cerastes gasperetti, Naja haje (Abdel-Nabi et al., 1997; Fahim, 1998; Al-Sadoon and Fahim, 2012 and Al-Quraishy, et al., 2014)\r\nIn conclusion, the measurements of biochemical parameters following viper C. cerastes crude venom injection, clearly demonstrate the disturbances of vital organs, especially liver, kidney and muscles. Such these disturbances are remaining for 24 hr after envenomation of Guinea pigs at least, regardless the using dose. \r\n','Muhammad M.A. Salman (2014). Effects of Different Doses of Cerastes cerastes Crude Venom on Biochemical Parameters in Serum of Guinea pigs at different times. Biological Forum – An International Journal 6(2): 329-339. '),(4585,'120','Host Plants Relationship in terms of Cocoon Colour and Compactness of Eri Silkworm (Samia ricini)','Preetirekha Chutia*, Rajesh Kumar and D.P. Khanikar','55 DR RAJESH KUMAR JORHAT.pdf','',1,'North-eastern region of India is a homeland of about a dozen of sericigenous insects. Eri silkworm is a polyphagous species, which feeds on host leaves mainly of family Euphorbiaceae, Araliaceae, Apocynaceae and Simaroubiceae. Castor (Ricinus communis L.) and Kesseru (Heteropanax fragrans Seem.) are the major food plants of eri silkworm. There are several secondary host plants also viz., tapioca (Manihot esculenta), Barpat (Ailanthus grandis Baiu.), Barkesseru (Ailanthus excelsa Roxb ), Payam (cHook.) etc. which are used for rearing of eri silkworms during the scarcity of primary host plants. Though castor is the main host plant of eri silkworm, but it is mainly annual in nature and has to be grown a fresh every six months. Castor leaf is not available throughout the year. The alternate host plants available in the region for continuous rearing of eri silkworm are essential. In the present study, cocoon colour and compactness parameters of eri silkworm Samia ricini Boisduval has been undertaken feeding on kesseru and tapioca leaves.','Manihot esculenta, Manihot esculenta, Heteropanax fragrans, Ailanthus spp., Samia ricini, cocoon color, cocoon compactness\r\n \r\n','North-eastern region of India is a homeland of about a dozen of sericigenous insects. Eri silkworm is a polyphagous species, which feeds on host leaves mainly of family Euphorbiaceae, Araliaceae, Apocynaceae and Simaroubiceae. Castor (Ricinus communis L.) and Kesseru (Heteropanax fragrans Seem.) are the major food plants of eri silkworm. There are several secondary host plants also viz., tapioca (Manihot esculenta), Barpat (Ailanthus grandis Baiu.), Barkesseru (Ailanthus excelsa Roxb ), Payam (cHook.) etc. which are used for rearing of eri silkworms during the scarcity of primary host plants. Though castor is the main host plant of eri silkworm, but it is mainly annual in nature and has to be grown a fresh every six months. Castor leaf is not available throughout the year. The alternate host plants available in the region for continuous rearing of eri silkworm are essential. In the present study, cocoon colour and compactness parameters of eri silkworm Samia ricini Boisduval has been undertaken feeding on kesseru and tapioca leaves.','Sericulture is an agro-based industry which includes raising of host plants, rearing of silkworm, production of silk yarn. Sericulture requires low investment, gives quick return, provides employment opportunities and earns foreign exchange. Sericulture is broadly divided into two sectors- mulberry and non-mulberry. Among the non-mulberry silkworm species, only eri silkworm is completely domesticated and reared indoor. It is a multivoltine insect completing six to seven generations in a year. The word ‘Eri’ is derived from the Sanskrit term “Eranda” which refers to the castor plant and also known as Ahimsa Silk. Ericulture is an age-old tradition and culture of weaker sections of the society particularly in NE India. Apart from North-eastern region ericulture is also practiced in the States of West Bengal, Bihar , Orissa, Jharkhand and Andhra Pradesh. Recently its culture has been spread to Uttarakhand, , Chhattisgarh, , Maharashtra, Gujarat, UP etc. Ericulture though relatively a less remunerative occupation but it has its own advantages. Eri silkworms require comparatively minimum care as they are easy to handle. India produces 3,116 MT of eri silk during 2012-2013.\r\nNorth-eastern region of India is a homeland of about a dozen of sericigenous insects (Chowdhury, 1982). Eri silkworm is a polyphagous species, which feeds on host leaves mainly of family Euphorbiaceae, Araliaceae, Apocynaceae and Simaroubiceae. Castor (Ricinus communis L.) and Kesseru (Heteropanax fragrans Seem.) are the major food plants of eri silkworm. There are several secondary host plants also viz., tapioca (Manihot esculenta), Barpat (Ailanthus grandis Baiu.), Barkesseru (Ailanthus excelsa Roxb ), Payam (Evodia flaxinifolia Hook.) etc. which are used for rearing of eri silkworms during the scarcity of primary host plants.\r\nUsually after the emergence of the moths, the cocoons are used for producing spun yarn. The rearer can easily preserve the cocoons till a reasonable price is offered. It is advantageous to producers. The fibre is usually spun and woven by the growers. It provides light work for women in their own household activities. All operations from rearing of silkworm, spinning of yarn to weaving are done mostly by women folk. Thus, ericulture has attracted maximum attention of the rural people in North-eastern region of India and it is practiced as spare time occupation by the women folk.\r\nEri silk is widely used for preparing warm clothing like ‘Eri chadar’, quilts and scarves, but other products like kurtas, maxis, dokhans etc. are also available. Eri fabrics warm and more durable than mulberry silk. It is also resistant to perspiration, dust etc. Further, the texture improves by use and wash and the colour also become brighter. Ericulture is believed to have originated in the North-eastern India especially Assam. North – eastern region of India produces more than 90 per cent of eri silk. Assam produces more than 50 per cent of eri silk of the world.\r\nThough castor is the main host plant of eri silkworm, but it is mainly annual in nature and has to be grown a fresh every six months. Castor leaf is not available throughout the year. The alternate host plants available in the region for continuous eri silkworm rearing is essential. In the present study, Cocoon colour and compactness parameters of eri silkworm S. ricini Boisduval has been undertaken feeding on kesseru and tapioca leaves\r\nMATERIALS AND METHODS\r\nA. Selected host plants\r\nCastor (Ricinus communis L.) being the primary host plant of eri silkworm and two host plants viz., kesseru (Heteropanax fragrans Seem.) and tapioca (Manihot esculenta) were selected for undertaking present investigation. These three host plants were selected for rearing of eri silkworm (Figs. 1-3).\r\nRearing season: Rearing of eri silkworm was conducted during autumn (Oct-Nov) season, 2010.\r\nSource of seed: The healthy white variety seeds (cocoons) of eri silkworm were collected from Central Muga Eri Research and Training Institute, Lahdoigarh, Assam for conducting experiment.\r\nPreparation of disease free layings and incubation: The cocoons were preserved for emergence of moths. The disease free layings were prepared by examining the smear of the mother moth under the microscope after two days of deposition of eggs. The eggs were subjected to surface sterilization with 2% formalin solution for five minutes and washed with clean tap water. After washing the eggs were air dried and incubated at room temperature till hatching.\r\nRearing of Eri Silkworm (Figs. 4-6): Standard rearing techniques of eri silkworm as suggested by Chowdhury (1982) was followed. The rearing room and rearing appliances were disinfected with 2% formalin solution before rearing of the worms. Castor (Ricinus communis L.), kesseru (Heteropanax fragrans Seem.) and tapioca (Manihot esculenta), these three host plants were used for rearing of eri silkworm larvae under laboratory condition from first to fifth instar. Each treatment has five replications consisting 100 larvae for each host plant. With the help of feather the newly hatched larvae were fed with tender leaves of each host plant viz., castor (Ricinus communis L.), kesseru (Heteropanax fragrans Seem.) and tapioca (Manihot esculenta). The larvae were fed with medium to mature leaves with the advancement of age of the larvae. The larvae were fed four times per day (6 am, 11 am, 3 pm, 8 pm) except during moulting period. With the advancement of ages the quantity of food was increased to fulfil there requirement. Wet foam pads were placed around the four sides of the rearing trays and covered with a perforated paraffin paper to maintain adequate humidity. Bed cleaning was done regularly. \r\n\r\nMatured larvae were mounted to suitable (‘chandraki’ (bamboo mountage) for spinning of cocoon. The larvae were mounted treatment wise in separate mountages. After completion of spinning the cocoons were harvested from the mountages and taken for assessment.\r\nCocoon colour (% of respondents): The colour of the cocoon was evaluated as per I.S method (2939-1964). A performa was prepared to visually analyse the sample. Samples were selected randomly to judge and to evaluate the colour of cocoons.\r\nCompactness (% of respondents): Compactness of the cocoon was evaluated as per I.S method (2939-1964). A performa was prepared to analyze the sample. Samples were selected randomly to judge and to evaluate the compactness of cocoons.\r\nRESULT AND DISCUSSION\r\nCocoon colour (% of respondents) (Figs. 7, 8): The three different cocoons samples were marked as A (white), B (bright white), C (creamy white) and D (dull white). Data represented in Table 1 showed that castor cocoons were rated to be C (creamy white) by 47 per cent, A (white) by 30 per cent, B (bright white) by 15 per cent and rest 8 per cent rated as D (dull white). Cocoons produced from tapioca leaves fed larvae were rated to be C (creamy white) by 50 per cent, A (white) by 40 per cent and B( bright white) by 10 per cent and no respondents rated for D (dull white). Kesseru cocoons were rated as C (creamy white) by 60 per cent, A (white) by 20 per cent, B (bright white) by 15 per cent and rest 5 per cent rated as D (dull white).\r\nCompactness (% of respondents): Compactness of different cocoons samples were marked as A (hard), B (moderate), C (soft) and D (very soft) are shown in Table 2. It was revealed that the castor cocoons were rated as B (moderate) by 75 per cent, C (soft) by 15 per cent and A (hard) by 10 per cent and no respondent rated for D (very soft). Tapioca cocoons were rated as B (moderate) by 60 per cent, A (hard) by 20 per cent, C (soft) by 20 per cent no respondents rated for D (very soft). Kesseru cocoons were rated as B (moderate) by 45 per cent, A (hard) by 40 per cent, C (soft) by 35 per cent and no respondents rates for D (very soft).\r\nColour of cocoons depends on pigments absorbed from leaves of the host plants. The colour is a racial character and it is due to the presence of pigments in the sericin layer of the bave. The present investigation revealed that colour was significantly influenced by different food plants. Majority of respondents rated the tapioca fed cocoon as white followed by castor and Kesseru. Similarly tapioca and Kesseru fed cocoons were rated as creamy white followed by castor. Chowdhury (1984) reported that the variation in colour is due to the impermeability of cell wall and silk gland as a result of which pigments pass out along with the excrements. Saikia (2008) also observed highest white coloured cocoon on Barkesseru followed by Barpat and castor.\r\nThe extent of tightness or firmness indicates the shell texture and hardness of cocoons. Good quality cocoons are firm, compact and slightly elastic. It was revealed that host plants had significant effect on the compactness of cocoons. The cocoon spun by the eri silkworm fed on castor leaves were rated as more moderate followed by tapioca and Kesseru. Cocoons obtained from the eri silkworms fed on castor leaves were rated as more moderate followed by tapioca and Kesseru. Cocoons obtained from the eri silkworm fed on Kesseru leaves were rated as more hard followed by tapioca and castor. Result of this investigation supported by Saikia (2008) observed highest moderate cocoons on Barkesseru followed by castor and Barpat.\r\n','Preetirekha Chutia*, Rajesh Kumar and D.P. Khanikar (2014). Host Plants Relationship in terms of Cocoon Colour and Compactness of Eri Silkworm (Samia ricini). Biological Forum – An International Journal 6(2): 340-343.'),(4586,'120','Animal Rights in some Contemporary Scholars’ Viewpoints','Sahar Rastgar, Kamran Pashayi Fakhri and Parvaneh Adelzadeh','56 SAHAR RASTGAR, KAMRAN PASHAYI FAKHRI AND PARVANEH ADELZADEH.pdf','',1,'Human is the greatest creature that has specific place and dignity and also different rights. Approximately, similar definitions on rights have been offered and different rules have been codified in the societies. But all of these rules are not for human and these rights cover broad scopes of human rights, animals, children, women and labors rights and etc. This paper tries to investigate the rights of animals in the works of some contemporary literary men.','animals rights, animal in Persian literature, contemporary literature ','There are numerous fables in the literature unfortunately due to the limitation of this paper we could refer to some of them. As we have rights and try to defense our rights the animals have rights and we have to observe their rights. The mentioned writers have defended the rights of animals and some of them have expressed their opinions and some others have defended directly. Saedeg Hedayat condemns the humans to prosecute of the animals and offers his opinions in this regard:\r\nAss is used for carrying of load in Iran. It suffers from the wounds when it is hungry and it has to work all day long and it is only rewarded by offense and slaps. The people hit the dogs in the street and throw the cat in the well. They fire the mice.\r\nThe aim of this paper was to survey on the animals’ status and their rights to prevent prosecution of the animals. They have rights and we have to behave kindly with them. \r\n','INTRODUCTION \r\nOne of the important issues concerning to animals is their rights. Do only humans have rights? What is animals right?\r\na. Definition of animals right \r\nAccording to the international documents, “the right of animal is branch of environmental rights that specifies duties and responsibilities of the governments and individuals concerning to animals and environment and on other hand, it depicts natural right of animals that has been stipulated for creatures other than human being and these rights are based on the animals natural behavior” (Hussieni, 2010:38).\r\nb. Animals rights in Islam \r\nBrief glance on Quran miracles and life of the prophets clarifies this fact that justice is one of the important moral traits not only among humans but also it covers behavior with animals and other creatures.\r\nThere are different miracles and narratives on the behaving with animals that could solve problems regarding to codification of the animals rights in modern period.\r\nImam Sadeg said: an animal has seven rights on its owner (Mogimi, 2008:12).\r\nOne day the prophet (peace be upon him) saw a camel that its knees were tied and there was a burden on its back. He asked its owner and said that this camel will complain on its status in resurrection day (Darbandi, 2007:37).\r\nIslam has codified rules for supporting of the animals rights. By investigation on these rules we find that Islam respects on the animals and distinguishes animals from other creatures and advises human to behave kindly with them.\r\nAll divine religions have had rules and codes proportionate with time but in Islamic jurisprudence numerous rules have been specified for preservation and using of the animals. These rules ban misbehaving with animals. There are rules in the Islamic jurisprudence that the governments are responsible for conducting them and the individuals have to observe these rules. In general, there are numerous codes for supporting of the animals rights (Darbandi, 2008:13).\r\nThe first sentence of Iran constitutional law is begun by this miracle:\r\nIndeed, we have sent Our Messengers with clear proofs, and revealed with them the Scripture and the Balance (justice) that mankind may keep up justice. And We brought forth iron wherein is mighty power (in matters of war), as well as many benefits for mankind, that Allah may test who it is that will help Him (His religion), and His Messengers in the unseen. Verily, Allah is All-Strong, All-Mighty (Hadid:25).\r\nEstablishing justice and behaving justly among creatures require observing animals’ rights in the environment (Hussieni, 2010:54).\r\nThe animals deserve to respect that constitute the foundation of animals rights where the owners of the animals are responsible for observing these rules. The miracles, narratives and philosophical and mystical issues depict that animals are creatures with souls that comprehend our behaviors. We have to observe their rights. Although, the human is superior to animal it does not mean that we can misbehave with them (Darband, 2008:12).\r\nSo, Islam defenses the animals’ rights and refers to supporting of the animals in different narratives.\r\nc. Animals as the food source\r\nWe use animals as source of food while we annoy them. We can control some illness by eating vegetarian foods and in this case we could live healthy and meet our bodies’ needs.\r\nOne of the common ways to usage of the animals is using them as the source of food. The animals used for feeding encounter with pain and they are treated by different hormones. Some of these animals die before arrive at slaughterhouse due to illness and pressure. The poultries and ostriches are shocked and soaked in the water connected to electricity or soaked in the boiling water to use as food. Pigs and sheep were hung and then beheaded while they are alive.\r\nThe dairy cows are treated with growth hormone to produce approximately 50 kilo milk a day that is ten times more than natural amount. They are also treated by antibiotics and these antibiotics are transferred to milk and then enter to foodstuff (Bekuf, 2009:24).\r\nFeeding with meat and some meat products causes to some side effects and illnesses. We have not to feed on meat and animal products for nutrition and we can eat vegetarian food and have healthy body.\r\nA. Animals in the contemporary stories \r\nThere are many stories about animals in contemporary literature. These animals are misbehaved or they are threatened by humans. I will refer to some of these stories.\r\nStories depict good and bad events of life. We get familiar with mental and psychical aspects of human being in the stories. Pain, happiness, wishes and goodness and meanness and all human traits are reflected in these stories and the stories transfer experiences that sometimes we encounter with them after several years (Hadad, 2009:5).\r\nWe are fascinated by fables and even most of the writers, mystics and philosophers have employed allegorical fables in order to transfer of their ideas. Usually, animals are compared by humanly characteristics. Some of them are good and some of them are mean and demon. For instance the innocent virgins are converted to pigeon, swan and rabbit and the mean people are metamorphosed to vulture, fox and wolf (Mirsadeghi, 2000:84).\r\nMany writers try to be different from others by employing different styles. I refer to some of these stories and I began by the Story of Human and Animal by Sadeg Hedayat. This story is about the benefits of vegetarian food.\r\nDo not prosecute the ant that carries the seed\r\nIt has body and likes it (Firdausi)\r\nHedayat begins his book with this beautiful couplet. This book is about the human behavior with animals and animals rights. He expresses the ideas of philosophers about animals and refers to this subject that the animals can feel their surrounding events. The he refers to benefits of feeding vegetarian foods and finally, he emphasizes that the animals have rights and they should not be prosecuted. They also seek happiness and we kill them without considering their rights.\r\nShahriyarMandanipoor has beautiful stories on animals. I refer to two stories:\r\nThe animals are seen in the stories of ShahriyarMandanipoor and the attendance of the animals is similar to the role of the animals in the works of Chuback. It can be referred to stories of Wax and Honey and the color of evening sun and the story of Banu and Shadow of the Cave shadows that are related to the accompaniment of the animals and humans (Mandanipoor, 2007:23).\r\nB. Disappointment of the animals \r\nIn this part I refer to some short stories that depict disappointment of the animals.\r\nThe story of “Offense’”is the story of a squirrel that is expelled from the jungle because of offense to the lion and it could not find a place to live and finally, a cart rides over it and it dies.\r\nIn the story of “Pigeon: return to your nest”, a pigeon seeks its mate everywhere and finds her flying with other pigeon and the disappointed pigeon kills itself.\r\nIn the story of “Mouse and closet” by IpramShahidi, a mouse wishes to escape from the dark and narrow closet and it digs the ground several days and when it cannot find the way it returns to the closet.\r\nAbbass Hakim in the story of “pigeon” introduces the pigeons that they are anxious and they are threatening.\r\nExamples of the stories of IrajPezeshniya:\r\nHe is one of the writers that his fables are famous. In the stories of “Rabbits” and “fly” he describes life as a dangerous hunting ground that the strong animals are waiting for weak animals.\r\n“Rabbits” is narrated from viewpoint of two rabbits. He depicts his dislike of haunting in a beautiful and emotional scene. \r\nIn the story of “Fly” a dove is released from the cage and flies happily until night. It cannot find any shelter in the darkness and it wants to sit on a roof but it is afraid of cat and finally, it flies in the direction of wind by wishing to return to the cage.\r\nExample of the stories of Amir Golara:\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\n \r\n Rastgar, Fakhri and Adelzadeh 346\r\n \r\nIn the story of “The Goat” he refers to the story of disappointment of the humans in a fable that a goat narrates it: the goat thinks about life but it does not know that it is going to the slaughterhouse by the herd(Mirabedini: 1998:338-364).\r\nIn the novel of “City” by Gasemzadeh the birds are main characters. This story is similar to Logic of Birds by Attar. The birds begin to journey by guidance of a hoopoe and they encounter with unpredictable events and get in trouble.\r\nThe crow describes the beginning of the story: “At the first we were one hundred thousand crows or more. The field was filled with crows but the hoopoe said: there are one hundred thousand crows and I cannot to say anything. When we began to fly the sky was dark. There was no pioneer bird. Many birds tried to be head of the birds but they knew that it is useless. We could not be managed by hundred leaders. Some of them had claimed but they knew the truth (Gasemzadeh, 2001:12).\r\nC. Dependency of the pet animals \r\nVagrant dog \r\nThis is a story that SadegHedayat analyzes a dog and shows his sympathy on it. Pat is a dog from noble race that goes to meet its sexual needs and finally it is lost and he is offended by everybody. Indeed, the writer looks at the human life form point of view of a dog. In other story the fame of a monkey is narrated that its owner is trapped in the chain of determinism. In another story the fame of a dog is narrated that is disliked by everybody except a person who wants to protect it. In the fifth stories of the mourners of Bayal, Abbass protects a vagrant dog but the people of Bayal kill the dog.\r\nThe strong point of SadegHedayat stories is their good ending. In this story, three crows try to empty the eyes of Pat: three hungry crows are flying over the head of the dog. One of them came closer and sat and looked carefully when he was assured that the dog is yet alive it flew away.\r\n“Its head was dazzling and it felt sever pain in its stomach. It had stomachache and his feet and hands were weak and its body was cold. In the evening, three hungry crows were flying over the head of the Pat since they had smelled it. One of the crows came and sat on its head carefully, when it was assured that it was yet alive it flew away. These crows had came to empty its eyes”(Hedayat, 1959:9).\r\nThe monkey that its owner died \r\nThe other story is by SadegChuback. The story is begun when the owner of monkey dies and the monkey is unaware. Then it becomes aware although he misbehaved with it but it is sad since it was dependent on him. The monkey is scared of people and finally, it is released and leaves his body and thinks that it is free. But he is regretted and returns and sits besides its owner corpus.\r\n“It wanted to get rid of its owner dead body and chains but it could not rescue. It was trying and its body was painful. He was chewing the chains and its mouth was bloody. It was crying. The people were moving and the hunters were coming and their axes were shining”(Chuback, 2012:83). \r\nIn the story of the lamenters of Bayal, Golam Hussein Saedi expresses the struggle between sympathy and violence of the people of the village toward animals. Abbass the protagonist is alone and unemployed and he only protects an old vagrant dog so that he forgets his life and preserves the vagrant dog. But the people plot to kill the dog and for implementing their plan they invite Abbass to the home of Ismaeil in order to talk about his marriage and at night the son of Mashdi Safar and the people of the village show their violence:\r\n“The son of Mashdi Safar came forward and stand raised the pick and hit on the back of the dog. A loud sound was heard as a tree fell down then it was changed to dreadful sound that all people of the village heard that sound. He raised the pick again and hit again and there was no sound no longer” (Saedi, 1977:195-196).\r\nD. Examples of torment of animals \r\nJustice \r\nIn the story a horse with broken hands and leg falls in the puddle and the people are surrounding it and they are indifferent and look at the dying horse.\r\n“Vapor was coming out of its nose and body. Its ribs were seen under the skin. On its back and neck there was the trace of dried flowers burned on its skin. The skin of some parts of its body was pale. It was trembling. It never groaning and it was calm and it seemed healthy and looked at the people calmly”(Chubak,1999:133).\r\nCage\r\nIn this story the hens and roosters are in the cage and they sometimes come out and one of them is captured and none of them protest and then they get accustomed and return to their animalistic life.\r\n“The hen slept and then awaked and shook its body and went. It paused and then began to eat. Another hen was sounding. It sat on the ground and it was sacred. A dirty hand came and opened the cage and stole an egg and the other hens were looking this scene” (Chubak, 2011:79).\r\n \r\n\r\n\r\n Rastgar, Fakhri and Adelzadeh 347\r\n \r\nThe kitten with closed eyes \r\nThe kitten with closed eyes is the story of a kitten that had trapped in a hole and a boy tried to rescue it. In the stories of Chubak the animals play an important role and they are sometimes minor characters and sometimes protagonists.\r\n“At that moment a black and thin cat with fatigue eyes and with hanging skin came through the people who were looking the quarrel. At first it went to the chick and smelled it and then it jumped into the hole on the pillar and the sound of the kitten was stop” (Chubak, 1999:165).\r\nQuick walk \r\nIn this story a mouse is trapped in the shop of Hydar and Hydar collect the people and everybody offers a plan for killing the mouse. Everybody tries to kill it in worst conditions while they could transfer it to other place and not kill it. But Hydar insists on killing of the mouse and finally they fire it and the mouse goes to the tank of oil. Chubak describes this scene well.\r\n“The mouse ran way rapidly as comet in the sky at midnight and when they people saw it they ran. The mouse went quickly then it arrived under the oil tank and when it wanted to ran the tank was exploited loudly and the gasoline was poured on the head of people and shops and then the gasoline warehouse was exploded and the village was fired and the people ran away” (Chubak, 1999:99). \r\nDying of an ass\r\nThis is the story of an ass that is dying and it is fatigue of living and wishes to die and complains about tortures.\r\n“It was trembling because of pain. It is the reward of the services on this ignorant creature. This is my last day and so I am happy. After living in hardship and bearing difficulties and hearing offenses I will be free. Here is Shemiran Street and an automobile broke my legs because of indifference of my owner. They pulled out my body after hitting me and left me. They forget they could use my horse shoe and skin. Perhaps they are disappointed. Finally, I must to die hungry since I am useless now”(Hedayat,1955:67).\r\nThe other story of animals is the story of Ibrahim Golestan. He wrote this story in 1969 and it was published in 1995 in London.\r\n“A rooster that was sounding in the house every morning threw its excrement on the goat that was respected in the house. Since the rooster is symbol of awareness and warns it causes to movement and awareness and this is the wish of the narrator. All member of the family ran to catch the rooster and the stones that they threw on the rooster hit the goat and the superstitious owner of the house wanted them to sound and walk like a rooster. Only a son who was blamed by the master every day sat and moved the fan. Finally, the rooster was caught and killed”(Mirabedini,1998:783-784).\r\nThe story of “short legged hen” by Najaf Daryabandari is about members of a house that live in misery and die in poverty and they torment a hen that the only animal in that house (ibid:399).\r\nMahmud Dolatabadi in the story of the “I missed Seluch” offers scene of fight between human and drunken animal. Abbass, the son of Morgan raised the camels and took the camels to the desert and hit Luk the drunken camel. The drunken camel took vengeance of Abbass and he was scared and jumped in to the well but the camel stood there and groaned. When Abbass woke up it was night and saw that the camel was standing there. He felt a snake moving on his leg, stomach and shoulder and neck. His hair became grey because of fear although he was rescued by he did not look like alive man (Dolatabadi, 1995:246-260).\r\nE. Depenccey on the animals \r\nIn this story Chubak shows loneliness and dependency of the human that his pleasure is friendship with animals. “One night sleepless” is the story of a man that wants to sleep but the dogs of his mother that had killed in an accident do not let him to sleep and he thinks about them though he lives in misery. But the reader of this story feels sympathy with the dogs more than the man.\r\n“He threw away the blanket and left the bed. He looked around and touched his hair. He put on his garment. The moon was shining and he had a light on his hand. The ground was dirty by melting the snows. He saw corpus of a dog that was bloody and its pets were sucking its cold breasts”(Chubak, 1999:58).\r\nPigeon fancier \r\nPigeon fancier is the story of a man that likes his pigeons and he never gets married. In some stories Chubak refers to animals for describing the life of animals and enters the reader to the world of animals.\r\n“Palang was an agile bird that flew higher than other birds in the sky. The birds flew in the sky so that they were hit and fell down but then flew away and they were happy and Shokri was also happy. At once Palang flew toward the sun and Shokri was anxious. The sun was setting and the wings of the bird were shining. He knew that if the bird flew toward the sun it falls down at night. It was unique bird and Shokri was anxious” (Chubak, 2012:185).\r\nIn the story of the “Dog in the rain” by Nasim Khaksar, animal accompanies human and this story depicts sympathy and dislike of human to animal (Mirabedini, 2005:45).\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\n \r\n Rastgar, Fakhri and Adelzadeh 348\r\n \r\nThe narrator with feeling of loneliness and bored wanders in the city that was raining for several days and he has no friend except a dog that is wet that doubles his feeling of loneliness.\r\nF. Example of human selfishness and discontent of animal \r\nGreen as parrot and black as crow \r\nThis story written by Hoshang Golshiri narrates the attachment of the man to the parrot. One of the characters likes a parrot and wants to talk with it but every time that he tries to talk the bird sounds roughly and its feathers become black as a crow and he gets angry(Golshiri,2003:305).\r\n“The person buys a parrot to talk with it and spend his time with it not it cannot distinguish Bi Bi, Hussein, Hassan or Seyed Mohsen Razavi even if it is not the best parrot in the world”(ibid).\r\nNimaYushij employs fable elements in some of his stories and he transfers his allegorical messages by fables. Some animals are seeking water and they choose a duck as leader but gradually the duck becomes proud and finally a white duck comes and gives the animals glad tidings (Mirabedini, 1998:182).\r\nTuka in the cage \r\nTuka was looking over the tree. He got ready to fly and told: good morning dear. I am not discontent and I trapped due to my greed. Many people are trapped because of greed. Try to read yourself and do not need to me.\r\nThe owner of the cage said: no, come down and sing song here.\r\nBut it did not listen and flew away toward the mountains (Yushij, 2002:8).\r\nMohammad Ali Jamalzadeh has a satirical story (Dialogue between two flies). In this story he criticizes the human proud and selfishness: One of the flies was unbeliever and the other was believer and they discussed about God and the universe and third fly that was mystic entered to their discussion. They were close to hit each other suddenly a mouse urinated and three of them were drowned. Finally, two ants ate their dead bodies and they talked about supernatural events (Javadi, 2005:297).\r\nJalal Ale Ahmad narrates the story of the honey bees in allegorical way. Ali Bak extracts their essences by difficulty and for protest the bees have to immigrate to other land.\r\nNader Ibrahimi tries to personify the objects and animals and offer social concept. In the story of the Big Family a bird in the cage describes his life for a hen that is killed soon (Rahbariyan, 2011:20).\r\n','Sahar Rastgar, Kamran Pashayi Fakhri and Parvaneh Adelzadeh (2014). Animal Rights in some Contemporary Scholars’ Viewpoints. .Biological Forum – An International Journal 6(2): 344-348.'),(4587,'120','Evaluation of Nano biofertilizer efficiency on Agronomic traits of Spring Wheat at Different Sowing Date','Mahmoud Mardalipour, Hossein Zahedi and Younes Sharghi','57 MAHMOUD MARDALIPOUR, HOSSEIN ZAHEDI AND YOUNES SHARGHI.pdf','',1,'In order to investigate the effect of seed sowing date and nano biofertilizer foliar application on some agronomic traits of spring wheat an experiment was conducted in 2010 growing season. The experimental design was a complete randomized block design arranged in factorial with three replications. The first factor was included two sowing date (middle of November and middle of December) and the second factor was included three nano biofertilizer levels (0, 4 and 8 litre ha-1). The results indicated that late seed sowing lead to significant reduction in agronomic traits such as tiller number, peduncle length, spike length, spike number, seed number, number of day until spike emergence, number of days until pollination and number of days until physiological maturity. By contrast, nano biofertilizer application increased spike length, spike number, seed number, seed number in spike, seed weight and number of days until physiological maturity. Generally nano biofertilizer application increased crop growth and improved yield and yield components through extending growing period','Wheat, Humic acid, Seed sowing date, Yield and yield components','In general, the results indicated that late seed sowing decreases wheat vegetative growth and growing period length, which are the main reasons for yield loss. In addition, nano biofertilizer application (4 litre ha-1) increased spike length, spike number in m2, seed number in m2, seed number in spike, seed weight and number of days until physiological maturity. However, there was no further increase with increasing in nano biofertilizer application, except for seed weight and number of days until physiological maturity. In sum, early seed sowing and application of f litre ha-1 nano biofertilizer is recommended to gain the desirable yield. ','Wheat is the most important cereal crop grown in different parts of the world. It is the staple food for over 35% of the global population and provides more calories and proteins in the diet (Laegreid et al., 1999). Investigations show that, the world population is expected to be 9.1 billion people by 2050. If food consumption in developed countries is coordinated by the other parts of the world and all of these people are to be fed adequately, total food consumption will have to rise by 50–70% (Jaggard et al., 2010). \r\nPlanting date is one of the most important agronomic factors involved in producing high yielding small grain cereal crops, which affects the timing and duration of the vegetative and reproductive stages (Nasser and El-Gizawy, 2009). The choice of sowing date is an important management option to optimize grain yield (Radmehr et al., 2003; Turner, 2004). Numerous publications (Bassu et al., 2009; Bannayan et al., 2013) have reported an increased yield with early sowing and a reduction in yield when sowing is delayed after the optimum time. These authors reported an advantage of early sowing dates when combined with cultivars that avoid frost risk at anthesis or in regions or seasons with low frost risk, aiming at high aboveground biomass at flowering to maximize radiation interception. The delay in sowing date not only affects yield, but it affects the yield components and other aspects of the growth and development of wheat (Andarzian et al., 2014). \r\nNow-a-days attention to bio-fertilizer has been increased due to the advancement in countries research development, prices of chemical fertilizers and attention to sustainable agricultural systems (Yosefi et al., 2011). There are some evidences in support of bio-fertilizers including; that plant growth and yield increase may be stimulated by plant growth promoting bacteria due to their ability of N2-fixing, phosphate solubility and production of plant growth hormones (Sahin et al., 2004). \r\nBio-fertilizer with 50% of chemical fertilizers (N and P) led to an increase in plant growth, plant height, branch numbers, fresh and dry weight of safflower in comparison with chemical fertilizers application alone Ojaghloo et al., 2007). Also the utilization of Azotobacter bio-fertilizer, bio-phosphate fertilizer, organic fertilizers, with half rate of chemical fertilizers increased the grain yield of safflower (Ojaghloo et al., 2007). Mirzaei et al., (2010) applied Azotobacter and Azospirillum bacteria in different levels of nitrogen for safflower plant. Their results showed that combined application of these two types of bacteria increased plant growth characteristics and reduce nitrogen fertilizer application by 50%. Cereals yield responses to inoculation may also depend on plant genotype, bacterial strains and soil type as well as environmental conditions (Salantur et al., 2005). Biofertilizers are able to fix atmospheric nitrogen in the available form for plant (Chen, 2006) and have beneficial upon plant growth by production of antibiotic (Zahir et al., 2004). Azotobacter is used as biofertilizer in the cultivation of most crops (Yasari et al., 2007). Nowadays, nanotechnology is progressively moved away from the experimental into the practical areas (Baruah and Dutta, 2009). \r\nFor example, the development of slow/controlled release fertilizers, conditional release of pesticides and herbicides, on the basis of nano-technology has become critically important for promoting the development of environment friendly and sustainable agriculture. Indeed, nanotechnology has provided the feasibility of exploiting nano-scale or nano-structured materials as fertilizer carriers or controlled-release vectors for building of so-called “smart fertilizer” as new facilities to enhance nutrient use efficiency and reduce costs of environmental protection (Cui et al., 2010; Chinnamuthu and Boopathi, 2009). \r\nThe goal of this paper was to study the effects of seed sowing date and nano-bio-fertilizers (Biozar®) containing Azotobacter and Pseudomonas bacteria and nano fertilizers such as Fe, Zn and Mn on yield and yield components of wheat.\r\nMATERIALS AND METHODS \r\nIn order to investigate the effects of sowing date and nano-bio-fertilizers (Biozar®) containing Azotobacter and Pseudomonas bacteria and nano fertilizers such as Fe, Zn and Mn on yield and yield components and some agronomic characteristics of spring wheat a field experiment was conducted at Islamic Azad University, Islamshahr, Iran during 2010 growing season. Thus, a factorial experiment in randomized complete block design with three replications was carried out. The first factor was included two sowing date (middle of November and middle of December) and the second factor was included three nano biofertilizers levels (0, 4 and 8 litre ha-1). The experimental filed was tilled with mouldboard plow and disk in fall. The experimental plots were 4 × 2 m, with ten sowing rows. Wheat seeds (cv. Bahar) were disinfected using fungicide (Thiram, Tetramethyl thiuram disulfide) and then sown in the middle of November and December as different sowing dates. A seed rate of 150 kg ha-1 was used to maintain a plant population of 4 million plants ha-1. Irrigation was applied as required during the crop growing season. The foliar treatment was carried out with nano-bio-fertilizers solution (0, 4 and 8 litre ha-1). These three solutions were sprayed on top of the leaves weekly, starting from the beginning of stem elongation until grain filling, when the flag leaf was green and showed a consistent photosynthetic activity. Distilled water was sprayed on leaves of control treatments for uniformity.\r\nNumber of days until spike emergence (50% appearance), number of days until pollination and number of days until physiological maturity were counted and registered. \r\nAfter tiller counting, spike length (from the end of peduncle to the end of spike) and awn length (from middle spikelets) were measured. \r\nPlant height was measured from crown to the end of spike. Spike length was subtracted from plant height to calculate stem length. The length of the last internode was considered as peduncle length.\r\nSpike number was in 0.3 m2 was recorded. In order to study yield and yield components plots were harvested and then 50 plants were selected randomly, weighted and dried at 70°C for 48 h. Seed number in spike, Seed number in m2 and seed weight were calculated. Seed filling rate was calculated using following formula. \r\nSeed filling rate = seed yield/ number of days from pollination to physiological maturity \r\nThe results were submitted to statistical analysis using SAS. The analysis of variance was carried out based on the level of significance in the F test (p < 0.05). Mean values were compared using Duncan’s Multiple Range Test. In addition, Pearson correlation and was performed. \r\nRESULTS AND DISCUSSION \r\nAnalysis of variance demonstrated that the effect of seed sowing data was significant on tiller number, peduncle length, spike length, stem length, plant height, spike number in m2, seed number in m2, number of days until spike emergence, number of days until pollination and number of days until physiological maturity (Table 1 and 2). In addition, application of nano biofertilizer significantly affect spike length, stem length, plant height, spike number in m2, seed number in m2, seed number in spike, seed weight and number of days until physiological maturity (Table 1 and 2). Interaction between seed sowing date and nano biofertilizer was significant on stem length and plant height (Table 1). Main effect of seed sowing date on some agronomic traits is shown in table 3. According to the results, late seed sowing significantly decreased tiller number, peduncle length, spike length, spike number in m2, seed number in m2, number of days until spike emergence, number of days until pollination and number of days until physiological maturity (Table 3). The purpose of choosing the appropriate sowing date is determining the best time for plant growth in accordance with suitable conditions. It has been reported that sowing date has a considerable effect on seed yield and its components and is crucial for success production (De Ruiter and Brooking, 1996). Our results are in accordance with those of Aslam et al., (2003). Less number of tillers in late sowing was the result of less germination count per unit area which occurs due to low temperature. Decrease in plant height in late sowing was due to shorter growing period. Early sown crop may have enjoyed the better environmental conditions especially the temperature and solar radiation which resulted to tallest plants. These results are in line with those reported by Shahzad et al., (2002).\r\nLess number of seeds per spike in late sowing date was due to less production of photosynthates due to shorter growing period. These results are in line with those of Shahzad et al., (2002). The early seed sowing resulted in better development of the seeds due to longer growing period. These findings are strongly supported by those of Spink et al., (2000) and Shahzad et al., (2002) who had also reported decreased seed grain weight with delay in sowing. Lower seed yield in late sowing was mainly due to less number of tillers, less number of seeds per spike and lower seed weight. These results are in accordance with those of Spink et al., (2000) and Aslam et al., (2003). They also reported that late sowing results in less seed yield per hectare. Higher growth in early sowing was mainly may be due to more number of tillers and more plant height. These results are in line with those of Donaldson et al., (2001). They reported that early sowing resulted in higher straw yield due to more number of tillers. Reduction in number of days until spike emergence and physiological maturity indicates that delay in sowing date increases the days to heading which may be due to lower temperature during the vegetative stage. These results were in line with Ishaq and Ageeb (1991). \r\nThe main effect of nano biofertilizer is presented in table 4. From the results, nano biofertilizer application increased spike length compared with control treatment (Table 4). Although, there was no significant difference between 4 and 8 litre ha-1 nano biofertilizer treatments, 4 litre ha-1 nano biofertilizer caused longest spikes compared with 8 litre ha-1 nano biofertilizer application (Table 4). Similar results were observed in case of spike number in m2 (Table 4). Seed number in m2 increased on account of 4 litre ha-1 nano biofertilizer application, however when 8 litre ha-1 nano biofertilizer was applied there was signify cant reduction in seed number in m2 (Table 4). The results suggest that nano biofertilizer application not only has no positive effect on seed number in spike, but 8 litre ha-1 nano biofertilizer decreases seed number in spike (Table 4). By contrast, nano biofertilizer application increased seed weight so that increase in nano biofertilizer application was parallel with increase in seed weigh (Table 4). Furthermore, nano biofertilizer increased number of days until physiological maturity, in other words, increased growing period length (Table 4). According to the results, interaction between seed sowing date and nano biofertilizer was significant on stem length (Fig. 1). Application of nano biofertilizer in November had no significant effect on stem length, whereas in December led to significant increase in stem length. Although, the highest stem length was observed in early seed sowing date and delay in sowing decreased stem length, nano biofertilizer could increase stem length in late sowing treatments. Similar results were obtained in case of plant height (Fig. 2). Nano biofertilizer application had no significant effect in early seed sowing treatments, while increased plant height in late seed sowing treatments. It should be note that there was no significant difference between 4 and 8 litre ha-1 nano biofertilizer application. In addition, plant height in early seed sowing treatment was more than late sowing treatments (Fig. 2). The improved performance with nano biofertilizer for seed yield, yield components and crop growth was probably due to the absorption of more nutrients by wheat plants because of Azotobacter and Pseudomonas as well as nano micro nutrients. The importance of additive effects of bio-inoculants was reported by earlier workers for component traits like plant height (Katiyar and Ahmad, 1996), spike length (Walia et al., 1991), seed weight (Singh and Singh, 1992), flag leaf area (Prodanovic, 1993) and seed number per spike (Rosal et al., 1991). Shaalan (2005) suggested that inoculation seeds with bio-fertilizer such as Azespirillum, Azotobacter and Pseudomonas caused improving plant growth trait due to inoculation nutrients uptake by plant microbial inoculation also led to improving the soil attributes such as organic matter content and increasing nitrogen content. Singh et al., (2004) indicated that inoculation of wheat with Azotobacter under normal condition resulted in the maximum production. The results showed biological fertilizers not only increased yield but also reduced the consumption of chemical fertilizers.\r\nCorrelations between different traits of wheat affected by sowing date and nano biofertilizer are given in Table 5. According to obtained results, tiller number showed a positive and significant correlation with peduncle length, stem length, plant height, spike number in m2, number of days until spike emergence, number of days until pollination and number of days until physiological maturity. There was a positive and significant correlation between peduncle length and spike length, stem length, plant height, seed number in m2, number of days until spike emergence, number of days until pollination and number of days until physiological maturity. Spike length correlated with plant height, seed number in m2, number of days until spike emergence, number of days until pollination and number of days until physiological maturity. Similar correlation was obtained between stem length and plant height, stem length and spike number in m2, number of days until spike emergence, number of days until pollination and number of days until physiological maturity. In addition, there was a positive and significant correlation between plant height and spike number in m2, seed number in m2, number of days until spike emergence, number of days until pollination and number of days until physiological maturity. Seed weigh correlated with spike number in m2, seed number in spike and harvest index. The relationship between spike number in m2 and seed number in spike, number of days until spike emergence, number of days until pollination and number of days until physiological maturity as well as seed yield and biological yield was significant. Seed number in m2 also correlated with seed weight, number of days until spike emergence, number of days until pollination and number of days until physiological maturity as well as seed yield and biological yield. Seed number in spike correlated with seed weight and harvest index. Furthermore, there was positive and significant correlation between seed filling rate, seed yield and biological yield. Number of days until spike emergence with number of days until pollination and number of days until physiological maturity correlated significantly. Moreover, there was positive correlation between number of days until pollination and number of days until physiological maturity, number of days until pollination and seed yield and number of days until pollination and biological yield. Number of days until physiological maturity correlated with seed yield and biological yield and finally seed yield showed a positive correlation with biological yield. \r\n','Mahmoud Mardalipour, Hossein Zahedi and Younes Sharghi (2014). Evaluation of Nano biofertilizer efficiency on Agronomic traits of Spring Wheat at Different Sowing Date. Biological Forum – An International Journal 6(2): 349-356.'),(4588,'120','Effect of Planting Date and Vermicompost on Seed and Essence Production of Dill (Anethum graveolens L.)','Hossein Zahedi and Siavash Jahanshahi','58 HOSSEIN ZAHEDI AND SIAVASH JAHANSHAHI.pdf','',1,'Vermicomposts are organic compounds which are able to change basic nutrients into an available form through biological procedures, and are an important source of nutrients in sustainable agriculture. In order to investigate the effect of different vermicompost rates and planting dates on dill (Anethum graveolens L.), an experiment was conducted at Shahre-Rey, Iran, during the 2012 growing season. The experimental design was randomized in complete blocks arranged in split plots with four replications. The factors included four planting dates:13th and 23April and April 3rdand 13thMay for main plots, and for sub-plots five levels of vermicompost, 0, 8, 16, 24 and 32 tons per hectare, were used. Findings suggested that application of 32 tons per hectare vermicompost significantly increased biological yield, essence yield, harvest index, seeds yield and seed essence yield. In addition, in most cases, the 13th and 23rd April planting dates were found to be the most effective dates for the abovementioned traits. Therefore, application of 32 ton per hectare vermicompost and seed sowing in April is recommended to gain the highest seed and essence yield. ','Planting date, Vermicompost, Essence yield, Dill, Seed yield','The findings of the present study suggest that application of vermicompost has promising effects on dill production. Therefore, it is recommended that vermicompost can be applied to reduce production costs and stop damage to the environment due to the use of chemical fertilizers, especially nitrogen as nitrate. In addition, the best planting dates for dill are 13th and 23rdApril. ','Dill (Anethum graveolens L.), also known as Lao coriander depending on where it is grown, is either a perennial or annual aromatic herbaceous plant belonging to the Umbelliferae or Apiaceae family. Dill has three species graveolens, krizium and inolocratum, and is native to India spreading later to the Mediterranean and Europe, and then to America and Japan (Bailer et al., 2001). The plant has potential importance as a medicinal herb that contains volatile oils such as B-camphene-pinene, anethole, lonone, umbelliferone and carvone (Dhalwal et al., 2008; Sharma, 2004). Dill is used as an antibacterial plant in some conditions such as stomachache. Other essences found in this plant include limonen, dihydrocaron, alfapinen, terpinen, terpenoeid (Havlin et al., 2005). The dill seeds have essential oil as an active substance, while carvone and limonene are the most important constituents of dill, which is used in the pharmaceutical industry as a diuretic, a stimulant and a carminative (Bailer et al., 2001; Singh et al., 2005; Callan et al., 2007).\r\nApplication of organic fertilizer such as cattle manure and vermicompost has led to a decrease in the use of chemical fertilizers, and has provided high-quality products free of harmful agrochemicals for human safety (Sharma, 2002; Mahfouz and Sharaf Eldin, 2007). Vermicomposts are the products of the degradation of organic matter through interactions between earthworms and microorganisms. They are finely divided peat-like materials with high porosity, aeration, drainage and water-holding capacity, and usually contain most nutrients in available forms such as nitrates, phosphates, exchange able calcium and soluble potassium (Atiyeh et al., 2002; Arancon et al., 2005). Vermicompost has large particulate surface area that provides many microsites for microbial activity and strong retention of nutrients. It is rich in microbial population and diversity, particularly in fungi, bacteria and actinomycetes. It contains plant growth regulators and other growth-influencing materials produced by microorganisms (Atiyeh et al., 2002; Arancon et al., 2005).It has been reported that by using correct nutritional sources through organic manures and biofertilizers, the quantity and quality of active substances, such as essential oil in medicinal plants, can be maximized (Darzi et al., 2012).Several studies have reported that vermicompost can increase the growth and biomass of some medicinal plants such as basil (Singh and Ramesh, 2002; Anwar et al.,2005), plantain (Sanchez et al., 2008), coriander(Singh et al., 2009), fennel (Darzi et al., 2007), cumin (Saeid Nejad and Rezvani Moghaddam, 2011) and anise (Darzi et al., 2012).\r\nThe effects of the sowing date and its interaction with the environment on dill seed quality are not well understood, although it is known that high temperatures during seed development can give lower seed quality in other crops (Greven et al., 2004). On the other hand, low temperatures may affect yields in two ways: first, because emergence from the seed bed may be worse than expected, so that plant population density may be sub-optimal; and second, because the growth rate of those plants that do emerge may be lower than those grown under optimum temperatures. \r\nThe aim of the present study was to investigate the effect of planting date and vermicompost application on essence percentage and yield, biological yield and seed production of dill plant.\r\nMATERIALS AND METHODS\r\nThis experiment was carried out during the growing season of 2012 at Shahre-Rey, Iran. The geographic coordinates of the experimental station are 35° 25´ N and 51° 34´ E, with the altitude of 1060 m. The research site was ploughed in March 2012, and then harrowed to prepare the seed bed. Soil samples were taken from different parts of the land at depths of 0-30 and 30-60 cm to evaluate chemical and physical properties of the soil. The soil analysis results are presented in Table 1. The vermicompost treatments (0, 8, 16, 24 and 32 ton per hectare) were applied and incorporated into the top 5 cm layer of soil in the experimental beds before seed sowing. Seeds of dill were planted on 13th and 23rd April and 3rdand 13th May in 3m long rows with 75cm between them. The total area of the experimental unit was 9m. Dill seeds were directly sown by hand at a rate of five to six seeds per cavity and at a distance of 25cm in between. Irrigation was performed immediately. At seedling emergence stage, weeds were controlled using a hoe. After two weeks, seedlings were thinned to only two. All agricultural practices were done at the same until harvest time. There was no incidence of pest or disease on dill during the experiment. At flowering and maturity stages, harvests were carried out by cutting plant tops 1.5–2 cm above the soil. Essence percentage, essence yield and biological yield were inspected at flowering stage, and seed yield, biological yield, harvest index, essence percentage and essence yield were inspected directly after harvesting.\r\nIn order to determine the essential oil content (%), a sample of 100 g of dill seeds or leaves from each treatment were crushed in an electric grinder and mixed with 500 ml distilled water. Then, they were subjected to hydro-distillation for 3 h, using a Clevenger-type apparatus. The essential oil content was measured after dehydrating water by anhydrous sodium sulphate (Sephidkon, 2002; Kapoor et al., 2004). Essential oil yield also was calculated using the essential oil content (Darzi et al., 2012). The experiment was designed as a split plot experiment with two factors in a randomized complete block design with four replicates. All the data were subjected to statistical analysis (one-way ANOVA) using SAS software. Differences between the treatments were performed by Duncan’s multiple range test (DMRT) at5% confidence interval.\r\nRESULTS AND DISCUSSION\r\nAnalysis of variance indicated that the effects of planting date and vermicompost were significant on all studied traits of dill plants. In addition, interaction between planting date and vermicompost was statistically significant (Table 2). Comparisons of means are given in Table 3. According to the results, the greatest percentage of essence at the flowering stage was obtained when dill seeds were sown on 3rdand 13thMay and treated with 0, 8 and 16 ton per hectare vermicompost (Table 3). On the other hand, the lowest essence percentage was observed when seeds were sown on 13th and 23rd April and 3rd May, and treated with 16, 24 and 32 ton per hectare vermicompost (Table 3). These findings are in accordance with the observations of Pandey (2005). \r\nBorna et al. (2007) reported that planting date had no significant effect on essence percentage of Dracocephalummoldavica L., which contrasts with the result of this study. Zarinzadeh et al. (2007) reported the significant effect of planting date on cumin aldehyde content. Biological yield at flowering stage significantly increased when seed sowing was performed on 13th and 23rdApril and plots were treated with 24 or 32 ton per hectare vermicompost (Table 3). The lowest biological yield was produced when plots were treated with the lowest amount of vermicompost, especially when seeds were sown late (Table 3). Vermicompost application through the improvement of biological activities of soil and mineral element absorption (Jat and Ahlawat, 2004; Zaller, 2007), caused more biomass production. Furthermore, early planting dates help plants to use growth factors more efficiently, such as water and nitrogen. \r\n \r\nApplication of 24 and 32 ton per hectare vermicompost had a great impact on the essence yield of the leaves at flowering stage. Irrespective of planting dates, the highest essence yield was related to these fertilizer treatments. There were no significant differences between other treatments in respect of essence yield (Table 3).The highest seed yield was gained when 24 or 32 ton per hectare vermicompost was applied on each planting date. Seed yield registered the minimum amount when 0, 8 or 16 ton per hectare vermicompost was used (Table 3).Increased seed yield in vermicompost treatments can be owing to the improvement of umbel number per plant and dry weight of plant. Our findings are in accordance with the observations of Sanchez et al. (2008) and Moradi et al. (2010). Rahmani et al. (2008) reported that nitrogen effect was significant on the oil yield, seed yield, oil percent, grain weight, number of seeds and grain diameter based on Calendula officinalis L. The highest biological yield was obtained when seeds were sown on 13th and 23rdApril and treated with 32 ton per hectare vermicompost (Table 3). On the other hand, the lowest biological yield was observed when vermicompost was used at lower amounts and when seed sowing was done late (Table 3). According to the present analysis, vermicompost, viaan increase of the uptake of minerals such as nitrogen and phosphorus (Arancon et al., 2005; Zaller, 2007), has a positive effect on biomass production, and subsequently enhances the essence content in the seeds. In Thymus vulgaris, application of organic fertilizers led to a significant increase in the plant growth (Youssef et al., 2004).Similarly, harvest index increased with increasing vermicompost application. The highest harvest index was related to the first planting date and 32 ton per hectare vermicompost Table 3). Seed essence percentage increased when dill seeds were sown on 3rd and 13th May and then treated with 0 or 8 ton per hectare vermicompost (Table 3). Irrespective of planting dates, the lowest essence percentage was observed in those plots which were treated with 24 or 32 ton per hectare vermicompost (Table 3).Improved essence content of medicinal plants has previously been reported in the presence of optimal amounts of vermicompost (Hadi 2011). Seed essence yield improved on account of 32 ton per hectare vermicompost and early seed sowing (13th and 23rdApril).\r\n','Hossein Zahedi and Siavash Jahanshahi (2014). Effect of Planting Date and Vermicompost on Seed and Essence Production of Dill (Anethum graveolens L.). Biological Forum – An International Journal 6(2): 357-361.'),(4589,'120','Acute Response of Serum Interleukin-6 to cycling test in adult men with type II Diabetes','Miri Hadi, Shojaedin Seyed Sadrodin, Majedi Nima and Maryam Taghvaei','59 MAJEDI NIMA @ MIRI HADI, SHOJAEDIN SEYED SADRODIN AND MARYAM TAGHVAEI.pdf','',1,'A large body of evidence suggests that obesity is associated with systemic inflammation, type II diabetes and insulin resistance. In this study, we investigated the effect of a braked cycle ergometer test on serum Interleukin-6 (IL-6) in type II diabetes patients. For this purpose, fifteen untrained adult obese men (age: 43 ± 4.8 years, BMI: 30.7 ± 2.24) with type II diabetes that participated in study voluntary were completed a braked cycle ergometer test. Pre and post exercise blood samples were obtained for measure serum IL-6 in studied patients. Paired t test was used to determine the mean differences between pre and post-exercise values. P<0.05 was considered significant. No significant differences were found in serum IL-6 by cycling exercise with compared to baseline (from 2.15 ± 0.65 to 2.26 ± 0.60 pg/ml, p = 0.628). We conclude that there is no meaningful acute effect of short time exercise in inflammatory profile in type II diabetes patients.','Inflammation, Diabetes, Exercise, Obesity','A large body of evidence suggests that obesity is associated with systemic inflammation, type II diabetes and insulin resistance. In this study, we investigated the effect of a braked cycle ergometer test on serum Interleukin-6 (IL-6) in type II diabetes patients. For this purpose, fifteen untrained adult obese men (age: 43 ± 4.8 years, BMI: 30.7 ± 2.24) with type II diabetes that participated in study voluntary were completed a braked cycle ergometer test. Pre and post exercise blood samples were obtained for measure serum IL-6 in studied patients. Paired t test was used to determine the mean differences between pre and post-exercise values. P<0.05 was considered significant. No significant differences were found in serum IL-6 by cycling exercise with compared to baseline (from 2.15 ± 0.65 to 2.26 ± 0.60 pg/ml, p = 0.628). We conclude that there is no meaningful acute effect of short time exercise in inflammatory profile in type II diabetes patients.','It is well known that obesity and its associated abnormalities is spreading in not only developed or industrialized but also in developing countries and that, at present, obesity is one of the main causes of mortality and of some irreversible diseases. Therefore, obesity has received considerable attention from researchers in health and healthcare in recent decades. Obesity is accompanied by increases in some intermediary inflammatory substances such as C-reactive protein (CRP), Interleukin-6 (IL-6), and tumor necrosis factor alpha ( TNF-α) [1, 2, 3]. Impaired secretion, and low levels, of inflammatory markers, especially in obese people, are also accompanied by lipid disorders [4] and result in many chronic diseases such as hypertension, type 2 diabetes, and respiratory, hepatic and various cardiovascular diseases all of which are also associated with obesity [5]. \r\nAmong peptide mediators, IL-6 has inflammatory properties and plasma IL-6 levels affect energy homeostasis and regulation of lipid levels [6, 7]. Some scientific sources have pointed out that increased systemic levels of this cytokine are a predictive index for death in old people [8]. Increased levels of plasma IL-6 are accompanied by reduced muscle mass or decreased muscular movement [9, 10, and 11). Some previous research also reported its role in glucose homeostasis; and studies on animal models showed that IL-6 injections resulted in increased glucogenesis that led to increased blood glucose (hyperglycemia) and, eventually, in high blood insulin levels (hyperinsulinemia) [12].\r\nScientific studies indicate that balanced inflammatory cytokines resulting from exercises and diets lead to improvement in metabolic risk factors [13]. The role played by exercises in reducing systemic levels of inflammatory cytokines was studied numerous times, and exercise programs had different effects on these pro- or anti-inflammatory indices and also on other risk factors for cardiovascular diseases [14, 15]. Each of these studies, depending on the intensity, duration, and type of exercises, reported a different response [16, 17,18], while some stated short- or long-term exercises had no effect on inflammatory factors that influence the development of obesity [19, 20]. Furthermore, most research in this field investigated responses of inflammatory cytokines such as IL-6 to long-term exercises with the purpose of determining their responses to weight reduction resulting from exercise programs, and less frequently investigated the immediate response of these cytokines to one session of, or to short-term, exercise programs. Therefore, this study was conducted with the purpose of determining immediate responses of IL-6 levels to one session of(or to short-term) cycling exercises with average intensity in men with type 2 diabetes who had a life-style with low levels of physical activities.\r\nMATERIAL AND METHOD\r\nA. Study patients\r\nSubjects were fifteen sedentary adult obese men with type II diabetes aged 43 ± 4.8 years, BMI: 30.7 ± 2.24kg/m2 that participated by accessible sampling in this study. The study protocol was approved by the local Research Ethics Committee of Islamic Azad University and written informed consent was obtained. \r\nB. Inclusion and exclusion criteria\r\nParticipants were included if they had not been involved in regular physical activity/diet in the previous 6 months. Inclusion criteria for study group were determined as existing type 2 diabetic for at least three years and having a BMI of 30 or above. In addition, exclusion criteria included inability to exercise and supplementations that alter carbohydrate-fat metabolism. Those patients unable to avoid taking hypoglycemic drugs or other therapeutic drugs within 12 hours before blood sampling were excluded. We also excluded those with history of other chronic diseases addition to diabetes.\r\nC. Anthropometrical measurements\r\nApart from the biochemical measurements, additional variables for this report included age, height and weight, body mass index (BMI). Body weight and height were measured with the subject wearing light clothes. Abdominal obesity was determined as waist circumference measured in a standing position. The BMI was calculated as the weight in kilograms divided by the square of the height in meters. All anthropometric measurements were made by the same trained general physician and under the supervision of the same pediatrician following standard protocols.\r\nD. Laboratory and physical exercise\r\nBlood samples were withdrawn 5 min before the start and immediately after of the cycling test. All participants refrained from any severe physical activity 48 h before measurements. Serum separated by centrifugation. These samples were analyzed to determine concentrations of serum IL-6 by ELISA method, using an Enzyme-linked Immunosorbent Assay for quantitative detection of human IL-6. The Intra- assay coefficient of variation and sensitivity of the method were 3.4% and 0.92 pg/mL, respectively. Cycling exercise test was a YMCA standard test on leg ergometry cycle (Tunturi, made in Finland). This protocol was performed in 5 continues stage without rest between stages. Each stage lasted 3 minute [21].\r\nE. Statistical analysis\r\nAfter calculation of the mean and the standard deviation, the statistical analysis was conducted using the SPSS software version 15.0. Kolmogorov-Smirnov test was used to determine of normal status of the data. Student’s t-tests for paired samples were performed to determine significance of changes in serum IL-6 by exercise test in patients. A p value of less than 0.05 was considered as statistically signigcant.\r\nRESULTS\r\nIn this study, acute response of serum IL-6 to a short time cycling test was measured in diabetes patients. Anthropometric and physiological characteristics of the study participants are described in Table 1.\r\nThere was no statistically significant difference in serum IL-6 between pre and post exercise (from 2.15 ± 0.65 to 2.26 ± 0.60 pg/ml, p = 0.628, Fig. 1). Exercise test resulted significant decrease in glucose concentration in studied subjects (from 200 ± 60 to 198 ± 54 mg/dl, p = 0.000, Fig. 2).\r\nAlthough some previous studies stated that short-term exercises could also influence pro-and anti-inflammatory cytokines (depending on the duration and intensity of the exercises), the findings of this research indicated IL-6 did not respond to one session of short-duration cycling in diabetics. In other words, based on these findings, it is concluded that one session of short duration cycling with average intensity did not affect serum IL-6 levels in men with type 2 diabetes but, nevertheless, significantly lowered blood glucose. \r\nMechanisms effective on energy balance such as inflammation and release of some adipokines determine pathophysiology of metabolic abnormalities in diseases associated with obesity. Scientific studies have repeatedly reported increased serum inflammatory cytokine levels in obese people and in diseases associated with them compared to healthy people with normal weights [22, 23, 24]. Exercise has been introduced as a non-drug treatment for reducing the spread of obesity and its complications. However, findings regarding the effects of physical activities on the levels of these variables (inflammatory cytokines) have so far been varied with no comprehensive or definitive results. Moreover, some researchers have reported considerable immediate response of these variables to exercises, especially to short-or long-duration one-session exercises [25, 26].\r\nImmediate response of IL-6 to exercise is reported in this study, while some previous research reported decreased or increased levels of inflammatory cytokines following short- and long-term training exercises in various populations. For example, in a recent study, one session of exercise in the form of high intensity interval training led to significant increases in serum IL-6 and TNF-α levels in active young men. However, no changes were observed in the mentioned cytokines in these men in response to a 2-week training program in the form of 6 HUT sessions, which makes these results somewhat contentious [27]. In another study, 60 minutes of running on a treadmill with the intensity of 60-70(5) VO2max led to significant increases in IL-6 and some other inflammatory cytokines in men who engaged in endurance exercise [28]. On the other hand, in another study different from ours in time of performing the exercises but with findings similar to ours, one session of endurance exercise did not result in significant changes in IL-6, TNF-α, or IL-1β levels in women with metabolic syndrome [29]. Nevertheless, our study indicated IL-6 did not respond immediately to one session of exercises with average intensity, while blood glucose level significantly declined in response to these exercises. Short duration of exercises, and the fact that they were of average intensity, may be reasons for the lack of change in cytokine levels in our study. The grounds for this possibility is that, as shown in a review study, exercise-associated IL-6 levels depend on the intensity, and especially the duration, of the exercises while exercise type and the way it is carried out are not as effective or have limited effects [30]. \r\nDespite the fact serum IL-6 levels did not change in response to exercise test in our study, it is possible that the exercise led to changes in IL-6 expression or to its change in muscles involved in the exercise activity. It must also be mentioned that although there are several sources of IL-6 secretion in the body, skeletal muscles play the most important role in the production of IL-6 in blood flow in response to exercise [30]. Mechanisms such as changes in calcium homeostasis, damage inflicted by available glucose, and increases in active oxygen species can activate IL-6 synthesis pathways in response to exercise [30]. Nevertheless, considering skeletal muscles are not the only source of IL-6 production in the body, it is possible that IL-6 produced by active muscles and released into blood flow in response to the short duration exercise in our study did not lead to significant changes in its serum levels. This may explain why these serum levels did not change in the study. It is also possible that IL-6 responds to exercise with a short delay and not immediately after the exercise.\r\n','Miri Hadi, Shojaedin Seyed Sadrodin, Majedi Nima and Maryam Taghvaei (2014). Acute Response of Serum Interleukin-6 to cycling test in adult men with type II Diabetes .Biological Forum – An International Journal 6(2): 362-366. '),(4590,'120','Acute Response of C - reactive protein to Single both Running test in Asthma patients','Miri Hadi, Shojaedin Seyed Sadrodin, Naderi Nasab Mahdi and Mostafa Soltani','61 MIRI HADI, SHOJAEDIN SEYED SADRODIN, NADERI NASAB MAHDI AND MOSTAFA SOLTANI.pdf','',1,'A growing body of evidence supports an association of asthma with systemic inflammation. This study aimed to compare serum C - reactive protein (CRP) between adult men with asthma and healthy subjects and to assess acute response of this inflammatory cytokine to one exercise test in patients. For these purpose, 14 males aged 39 ± 2.2 years with mild to moderate asthma and 14 healthy subjects matched to age, sex and body weight were participated in this study. All participants were non-smoker and non-trained. Fasting blood samples were collected of all subjects in order to measure serum CRP. Then all subjects of asthma group were completed a single bout running test and blood samples were collected immediately after exercise. Student’s t-tests for paired samples were performed to determine significance of change in CRP by exercise test in asthma subjects. Serum CRP levels in patients with asthma showed were significantly higher than those healthy group (p = 0.000). Compared to baseline, serum CRP concentration decreased significantly (p = 0.000) after exercise test in asthma patients. We concluded that short time exercise with moderate intensity can be improving inflammatory profile in asthma patients.','Systemic Inflammation, Asthma, Exercise test','A growing body of evidence supports an association of asthma with systemic inflammation. This study aimed to compare serum C - reactive protein (CRP) between adult men with asthma and healthy subjects and to assess acute response of this inflammatory cytokine to one exercise test in patients. For these purpose, 14 males aged 39 ± 2.2 years with mild to moderate asthma and 14 healthy subjects matched to age, sex and body weight were participated in this study. All participants were non-smoker and non-trained. Fasting blood samples were collected of all subjects in order to measure serum CRP. Then all subjects of asthma group were completed a single bout running test and blood samples were collected immediately after exercise. Student’s t-tests for paired samples were performed to determine significance of change in CRP by exercise test in asthma subjects. Serum CRP levels in patients with asthma showed were significantly higher than those healthy group (p = 0.000). Compared to baseline, serum CRP concentration decreased significantly (p = 0.000) after exercise test in asthma patients. We concluded that short time exercise with moderate intensity can be improving inflammatory profile in asthma patients.','Respiratory dysfunction is strongly associated with cardiovascular risk factors, arthrosclerosis, cardiovascular diseases, and mortality. However, respective mechanisms involved are still unknown. Asthma with allergic origin is a respiratory disease appearing with respiratory paths’ robustness [1]. At the same time, scientific references contribute to a kind of reverse relationship between pulmonary function and systemic inflammation [2]. Systemic inflammation is a factor connecting between respiratory dysfunctions and cardiovascular diseases. An increase in cardiovascular risk factors is also seen in respiratory diseases like asthma. Respiratory function suppression is related to the systemic inflammation resulted from some plasma proteins [3,4]. \r\nIn the meantime, as a cardiovascular risk factor, C - reactive protein (CRP) affects respiratory function among asthma patients through its inflammatory profile [3]. CRP is an inflammation-sensitive plasma protein. Its synthesis in lever is significantly regulated by IL-6 - another inflammatory cytokine [5]. In recent years, there have been relatively adequate evidences regarding the significant role of CRP measurement as an appropriate method for diagnosing inflammation in asthma patients [6, 7]. The difference between this inflammatory cytokine’s levels is compared between atopic individuals or respiratory patients (like, asthma) and healthy individuals. Close relationship between CRP level changes and pulmonary capacities such as FEV1 have been reported by some studies before [8, 9, 10]. \r\nThe relationship between CRP and respiratory function in asthma patients are to some extent similar to the relationship between respiratory function and other immunity system markers reported in other studies [11). Recent studies have reported a kind of close relationship between CRP increase and asthma [12, 13], respiratory dysfunctions [14, 15, 16, 17], and bronchi’s hyper-response [10]. An increase in inflammatory mediators and decrease in anti-inflammatory cytokines in these patients have drawn researchers’ attention to the identification of medicinal and non-medicinal treatment methods. That is, during two recent decades, extensive studies have been carried out to improve inflammatory profile in asthma patients and other respiratory diseases.\r\nAmong the recent non-medicinal external interventions, exercise and physical activity have been the main focus of health science researchers. On the other hand, similar to studies on other healthy or infected samples, opposing results are reported regarding the effect of exercise plans on inflammatory cytokines’ levels (especially, CRP). That is, some studies have reported the useful effects [18, 19] yet some others the null effect of exercise plans on the inflammatory profile [20].\r\nThis study compares CRP serum levels between asthma patients and healthy individuals. It also measures the instant response of CRP as a cardiovascular risk factor or as an inflammatory cytokine in asthma patients in a relatively long term exercise session. \r\nMETHOD AND SUBJECTS\r\nAs previous mentioned, the main objective of present study was to determine acute response of serum CRP to one single bout running test in asthma patients. Patients was forty males with mild to moderate intensity of asthma aged 39 ± 2.2 year and body weight 90 ± 8.6 kg. Thirty healthy males were also participating in study to compare serum CRP with patients at baseline. After the nature of the study was explained in detail, informed consent was obtained from all participants.\r\nAll participants was non-trained and nonsmoker. Participants were included if they had not been involved in regular physical activity in the previous 6 months. A history of other chronic diseases such as type II diabetes, kidney or liver and cardiovascular disease was exclusion criteria. \r\nAsthma diagnosis and its severity were determined by FEV1/FVC by special physician. Subjects were asked to refrain from tea, coffee, chocolates and caffeinated soft-drinks on the day of recording Spirometry. Subjects were instructed to take maximum inspiration and blow into the prevent pneumotach as rapidly, forcefully and completely as possible for a minimum of 6 seconds, followed by full and rapid inspiration to complete the flow volume loop. The best of the three trials was considered for data analysis.\r\nAnthropometric measurements were performed in all study participants before breakfast, with the subject wearing light clothing without shoes. Standing height of the barefoot subjects was measured to the nearest 0.1 cm with the use of a wall-mounted stadiometer. Body weight was measured in duplicate in the morning following a 12h fast. Body mass index (BMI) was calculated by dividing body mass (kg) by height in meters squared (m2). All of these measurements were conducted by the same researcher. Each of these measurements was conducted two times and the average was reported.\r\nThe subjects were advised to avoid any physical activity or exercise 48 hours before the blood sampling. A venous blood sample was collected from all the subjects who came after a 12h overnight fast. Blood samples were repeatedly collected in asthma patients immediately after exercise test. Exercise test involved 45 min running without slope at 70 % of maximal heart rate. Target heart rate was monitored by polar telemetry. Blood samples were dispensed into EDTA-coated tubes and centrifuged for 10 minutes in order to separate serum. Serum used to measuring IL-1β by ELISA method (Diagnostics Biochem Canada Inc High sensitivity C - reactive protein (Hs-CRP)). Intra and inter-assay coefficients of variation were 5.0 and 9.5%, respectively.\r\nA. Statistical analysis\r\nStatistical analysis was performed with the SPSS software version 16.0. The Kolmogorov-Smirnov test was applied to determine the variables with normal distribution. Independent student t test was used for between groups comparison at baseline. Student’s t-tests for paired samples were performed to determine significance of changes in variables by exercise test in asthma subjects. Signiﬁcance was accepted at P < 0.05.\r\nRESULTS\r\nThe first aim of present study was to compare serum CRP between asthma patients and those with non-asthma subjects. Table 1 shows the descriptive anthropometric features of the study groups. Data of independent T test showed that serum CRP in asthma patients is significantly higher healthy subjects (2870 ± 2482 versus 1919 ± 811 pg/ml, p < 0.05). All Spirometrical markers in asthma patients were lower than normal group (p < 0.05). \r\nSpirometrical characteristics of the study groups are also shown in Table 2.\r\nData by paired sample T test showed significant decrease in serum CRP after exercise test when compared with baseline (2870 ± 2482 to 1021 ± 913 pg/ml, p = 0.003), (Table 3 and Fig 1).\r\n \r\nDISCUSSION\r\nThe useful effects of exercises on inflammatory cytokines’ levels in other healthy and infected samples have been frequently reported [21, 22]. Yet, some studies deny the effect of physical activity on pulmonary function and growth [23, 24]. However, results of the present study imply the advantageous effects of a single-session exercise (like, running with a relatively average rate) on anti-inflammatory aspects. That is, serum CRP levels significantly decrease to basic levels immediately after sport test. \r\nHigher rest level of CRP in asthma patients (as compared to healthy individuals) is another finding of this study. These results support asthma as an inflammatory disease. The mutual relationship between these respiratory diseases and immunity system is reported in some recent studies [25, 26]. Namely, respective studies have frequently reported the relationship between respiratory paths’ inflammation and (or) pulmonary function with systemic inflammation [27, 28]. \r\nInflammatory processes in asthma are affected by a complex network of cytokines and growth factors secreted not only by inflammatory cells but also by other tissues such as epithelial cells, fibroblasts, and smooth muscles’ cells. As a consequence, respiratory paths’ mucus inflammation is followed by acute or chronic systemic inflammation in asthma patients [29]. \r\nHowever, concerning CRP (as an inflammatory cytokine), some studies deny any kind of relationship between CRP levels and spirometry indices such as blood FEV1 or IgE in asthma patients [30, 31]. Yet, most studies have reported a kind of close relationship between CRP level increase and asthma [12, 13] and respiratory dysfunctions [14, 15, 16, 17]. Several references have implied that adults suffering from asthma have higher CRP levels as compared to healthy individuals [13, 32]. On the other hand, some studies have also reported a reverse relationship between serum CRP levels and spirometry indices in asthma patients [6, 33]. If its levels are related to atopic levels, it will contribute to its effect on the role of overweight in allergic diseases and asthma. Although some studies have reported a negative relationship between respiratory function and inflammatory markers, few studies have reported the relationship between pulmonary function and CRP. \r\nMost research reported the durable useful effects if physical activity on respective variables have exploited long term exercise plans. On the other hand, most of those studies explored the instant response of respective cytokines to a single exercise session have experienced no response or opposing responses [34, 35, 36]. Nevertheless, in the present study, a relatively long exercise session with a partially average intensity level led to the significant decrease of CRP in asthma patients immediately after cutting the test. Perhaps, this significant reduction of CRP can be attributed to the relatively average intensity of the exercise test. It is also possible that the CRP reduction is resulted from relatively high calorie consumption in response to sport test by the patients under study. This is because previous studies have implied that if sport test leads to negative energy balance in an individual, inflammatory profile will be improved [37, 38, 39].\r\n','Miri Hadi, Shojaedin Seyed Sadrodin, Naderi Nasab Mahdi and Mostafa Soltani (2014). Acute Response of C - reactive protein to Single both Running test in Asthma patients. Biological Forum – An International Journal 6(2): 372-376.'),(4591,'120','Serum Interleukin 6 before and Immediately after a Moderate Exercise in Asthma Patients','Asieh Abbassi Daloii, Ahmad Abdi and Hajar Abbaszadeh Sorati','62 ASIEH ABBASSI DALOII, AHMAD ABDI AND HAJAR ABBASZADEH SORATI.pdf','',1,'Recent observation suggests the presence of systemic inflammation in asthma or other respiratory disease. The purpose of this investigation was to examine the influence of one exercise test on serum Interleukin-6 (IL-6) in asthma patients. Asthma severity diagnosed by spirometry test. For this purpose, sixteen untrained adult men with chronic asthma were completed a relatively long time exercise test involved 45 min running with moderate intensity on smooth surface without slope. Blood samples were obtained before and immediately after exercise test in order to measure serum IL-6. Data were evaluated using, paired T tests. Exercise test resulted significant decrease in serum IL-6 in studied patients (from 7.98 ± 4.94 to 6.18 ± 3.65 Pg/ml, p = 0.011). We concluded that one session long time running with moderate intensity is associated with inflammatory property in asthma patients. ','Interleukin-6, Asthma, Exercise, Respiratory function','Recent observation suggests the presence of systemic inflammation in asthma or other respiratory disease. The purpose of this investigation was to examine the influence of one exercise test on serum Interleukin-6 (IL-6) in asthma patients. Asthma severity diagnosed by spirometry test. For this purpose, sixteen untrained adult men with chronic asthma were completed a relatively long time exercise test involved 45 min running with moderate intensity on smooth surface without slope. Blood samples were obtained before and immediately after exercise test in order to measure serum IL-6. Data were evaluated using, paired T tests. Exercise test resulted significant decrease in serum IL-6 in studied patients (from 7.98 ± 4.94 to 6.18 ± 3.65 Pg/ml, p = 0.011). We concluded that one session long time running with moderate intensity is associated with inflammatory property in asthma patients. ','It has been clearly identified that respiratory dysfunction is strongly associated with cardiovascular risk factors, arthrosclerosis, cardiovascular diseases, and mortality. However, pathophysiological mechanisms undertaking this relationship are still unknown [1]. Chronic obstructive pulmonary disease and asthma are defined as airway chronic inflammatory disease. Evident also exist regarding the fact that systemic inflammation is involved in their pathogenesis [2]. Asthma has become increasingly prevalent in developing countries during the past three decades. Studies in developing countries have also shown the increasing outbreak of this disease. Again, adequate evidences support the mutual relationship between asthma and obesity [3,4]. \r\nSome scientific resources have supported asthma as an inflammatory disease. They have implied the presence of systemic inflammation in asthma [5]. On the other hand, disruption in inflammatory mediators (especially, inflammatory cytokines’ increase) provides the scene for the outbreak of the disease in susceptible individuals and its intensification in patients suffering from asthma. The relationship between cytokines and the increase of Interleukin-6 levels – as an inflammatory cytokine – has been frequently reported in allergic condition (6]. In fact, IL-6 is one of the inflammatory indices with increasing levels in asthma patients [7]; especially, in asthma attacks [8].\r\nIL-6 secretion increase from alveolar macrophage is observed in asthma patients [9]. Similarly, increasing IL-6 serum levels and expression in bronchial epithelial cells is also reported before [10]. The increase in its secretion – especially, by alveolar macrophages and mastocyte cells - induces the appearance of respiratory paths inflammation and bronchi’s activity suppression in these patients [11]. \r\nIdentifying asthma as an inflammatory disease gave rise to several studies regarding the determination of inflammation signs such as some cytokines (e.g. IL-6) in respiratory oaths inflammation. Besides, a variety of treatment methods have been presented for improving cytokines levels in these patients. The relationship between the role of medicinal treatment, exercises, and physical activity in inflammatory profile improvement in chronic patients such as asthma have been discussed frequently, although these studies have presented paradoxical results depending on the intervention components of the exercises. Nevertheless, some studies report the futility of short or long term exercises on these factors [12, 13]. Yet, few studies have been carried out on the role of short term or single-session sport tests on these cytokines or these cytokines’ instant response to a single-sport session, on the other hand; especially, in asthma patients. Accordingly, the present study determines IL-6 instant response to a single session of running at an average rate in adult asthma patients.\r\nMATERIAL AND METHOD\r\nA. Human subjects and inclusion criteria: In this study, acute response of serum IL-6 to a long time exercise test was measured in asthma patients. The Study Protocol was approved by the Ethics Committee of Islamic Azad University, Iran. Participants were forty sedentary adult men with chronic asthma aged 41 ± 4 year and body weight 92 ± 10 kg. Inclusion criteria to study were as existing moderate asthma for at least 3 years. The diagnosis of asthma was made by spirometry test. Subjects were asked to refrain from tea, coffee, chocolates and caffeinated soft-drinks on 4 hours before Spirometry. Subjects were instructed to take maximum inspiration and blow into the pre-vent pneumotach as rapidly, forcefully and completely as possible for a minimum of 6 seconds, followed by full and rapid inspiration to complete the flow volume loop. The best of the three trials was considered for data analysis.\r\nAll subjects were non-smokers. All participants had not participated in regular exercise/diet programs for the preceding 6 months. We also excluded people who had any self reported physician diagnosed chronic disease (arthritis, stroke, diabetes, hypertension, cancer, heart attack, chronic cough, or bronchitis). After the nature of the study was explained in detail, informed consent was obtained from all participants.\r\nB. Anthropometrics Markers: All anthropometric measurements were made by the same trained general. Body weight was measured in duplicate in the morning following a 12-h fast. Height was measured with high precision with an error of ± 0.1 cm. Body mass index (BMI) was calculated by dividing body mass (kg) by height in meters squared (m2).\r\nAbdominal obesity and hip circumference were determined in a standing position at the end of normal expiration and ratio between them (AHO) was calculated for each subjects. Percentage body fat was measured using body composition monitor (OMRON, Finland).\r\nC. Biochemical Analysis: Venous blood samples were obtained before, immediately exercise test. Exercise test was 45 min running at 75(%) of maximal heart rate on smooth surface without slope. Serums were immediately separated and Concentrations of serum IL-6 were measured. All participants refrained from any severe physical activity 48 h before measurements. The sensitivity of the IL-6 assay was 0.92 Pg/mL. Intra and inter-assay coefficients of variation were 3.4 and 5.2%, respectively.\r\nD. Data Collection: Statistical analysis was performed with the SPSS software version 16.0. The Kolmogorov-Smirnov test was applied to determine the variables with normal distribution. Pre- and post exercise serum IL-6 were compared using a paired-samples t-test. All statistical tests were performed and considered significant at a P ≤ 0.05.\r\nRESULTS\r\nIn present study, serum levels of IL-6 were compared between pre and immediately after a relatively long time running test in asthma patients. Table 1 presents the anthropometric and Spirometrical characteristics of studied subject. No collimations were found in serum IL-6 with each makers of spirometry (p > 0.05). Data of statistical analysis showed a significant decrease in serum IL-6 by exercise test (from 7.9 ± 4.9 to 6.18 ± 3.6 pg/ml, p = 0.011, Fig. 1).\r\nExercise training together with medicinal treatment results in useful effects on the main physiological parameters in asthma patients [14]. Asthma is an airway disease with allergic origin. Physiologically, it appears with respiratory airway narrowness. Among the clinical symptoms of asthma include the sudden attacks of loosing breath, coughing, and wheezing [15]. Results concerning the instant response of peptide and hormonal mediators to short term exercises in asthma patients are limited. However, few studies have measured the effect of single-session sport tests on cytokines levels in asthma patients so far. Yet, based on the existing evidences in this study, it is concluded that a session of aerobic exercise in form of 45 running on a flat surface with a relatively average rate results in a significant decrease of IL-6 as an inflammatory cytokine. \r\nThis observation evidently contributes to the anti-inflammatory qualities of this sport test with an emphasis on IL-6. In asthma, inflammatory processes are affected by a complex network of cytokines and growth factors secreted not only by inflammatory cells but also by other tissues such as epithelial cells, fibroblasts, and smooth muscles’ cells. Hence, the inflammation of respiratory paths mucus is accompanied by systemic acute or chronic inflammation [5]. \r\nIt is also mentioned before that asthma patients have higher IL-6 levels as compared to healthy people [16,17]. Some studies have also reported that IL-6 levels only increased in response to inflammatory condition rather than having a pivotal role in these processes [18]. Recent findings have also contributed to not only the role of topical inflammation, but also systemic inflammation in asthma patients. \r\nIt has become crystal clear that systemic inflammation plays a critical role in allergic and respiratory diseases. Again, it can be among the factors connecting between respiratory and cardio-vascular diseases. That is, a decrease in respiratory function is reported with systemic inflammation resulted from some plasma proteins [19,20]. Researchers have also implied that IL-6 levels in asthma children are higher than healthy individuals especially, those with familial history of the disease [21]. Its significant increase in these patients and in particular at the time of asthma attacks have been frequently reported [22]. The outbreak of inflammation symptoms in respiratory paths through taking antigens is similar to the time when IL-6 levels increase [23]. Increasing eosinophils accumulation in lungs in response to IL-6 levels increase is also observed before [24,25]. At the same time, hindering IL-6 function via neutralizing or controlling its receptors in rats infected by asthma led to the reduction of eosinophils accumulation in lungs [26]. Although cytokines’ instant response to exercise in asthma patients is barely studied, some other studies have examined these objectives in other healthy or infected samples. Yet, there are some studies that reported no changes in cytokines in response to a single-session exercise [27, 28, 29, 30]. \r\nOn the other hand, some research have pointed that sport test improves cytokines’ or inflammatory profile only when it takes 60min or calorie consumption level is at least between 600 and 800Kcal during the test [31]. For instance, in a study, 60min running with %70 VO2max intensity resulted in a significant decrease of leptin in male athletes [32]. Now, perhaps, the significant reduction of IL-6 in the present study can be attributed to the type of exercise plan with the least energy consumption required for improving cytokines. This is because, based on individuals’ weight and the intensity and duration of the sport test, it seems that consumed energy in this test is over 600Kcal\r\n','Asieh Abbassi Daloii, Ahmad Abdi and Hajar Abbaszadeh Sorati (2014). Serum Interleukin 6 before and Immediately after a Moderate Exercise in Asthma Patients. Biological Forum – An International Journal 6(2): 377-381.'),(4592,'120','Antioxidative and Allergic Profile in Adult Men with Cigarette Smoking','Mozhgan Ahmadi, Saeedeh Shadmehri and Mahdi Naji','63 MOZHGAN AHMADI, SAEEDEH SHADMEHRI AND MAHDI NAJI.pdf','',1,'Accumulating experimental and epidemiologic data suggest that smoking is a central factor in many pathological conditions. The aim of this study was to determine if total antioxidant capacity (TAC) is related with serum Imonoglobin E (IgE) in cigarette smokers. For this purpose, serum IgE and TAC were measured after an overnight fast in adult males (n=30, age 41±4 yrs, body weight 89±4.9 Kg) with a history cigarette smoking at least for 3 years. Pearson’s correlation coefficients were used to evaluate the correlation between them. A p-value < 0.05 was considered to be statistically significant. Data showed a significant negative correlation serum IgE with TAC in studied subjects (P=0.011). These findings suggest that antioxidant system can be affect by IgE as an allergic agent in smokers.','Imonoglobin E, Total antioxidant capacity, Smoking','Accumulating experimental and epidemiologic data suggest that smoking is a central factor in many pathological conditions. The aim of this study was to determine if total antioxidant capacity (TAC) is related with serum Imonoglobin E (IgE) in cigarette smokers. For this purpose, serum IgE and TAC were measured after an overnight fast in adult males (n=30, age 41±4 yrs, body weight 89±4.9 Kg) with a history cigarette smoking at least for 3 years. Pearson’s correlation coefficients were used to evaluate the correlation between them. A p-value < 0.05 was considered to be statistically significant. Data showed a significant negative correlation serum IgE with TAC in studied subjects (P=0.011). These findings suggest that antioxidant system can be affect by IgE as an allergic agent in smokers.','According to the latest report published by the World Health Organization, one person per each 8 seconds dies of smoking in the world, 70% of whom are those who began smoking in their adolescence and continued this style of life for 20 years or more. If smoking continues in the same trend, it is expected that more than 9 million people, on average, annually will lose their lives directly because of smoking in 2030 [1].\r\nSmoke, as one of the products of tobacco, affects various systemic organs through different diseases. Cardiovascular diseases and respiratory diseases such as chronic obstructive pulmonary and lung cancer are the major consequences of smoking [2, 3]. It has been known that smoking underlies the prevalence of many chronic and inflammatory diseases by suppressing the immune system and releasing inflammatory mediators [4, 5]. Furthermore, inhibition of anti-oxidative systems followed by smoking is also culpable for many pathological conditions mentioned above [6], because reduction and weakness in the performance of anti-oxidative system leads to the increased levels of free radicals and many oxidants [7]. According to available evidence, smoking increases free radicals and oxidants and decreases the total antioxidant capacity [8].\r\nOn the other hand, the literature suggests that smoking, through multiple mechanisms, increases the synthesis and release of IgE, paving the way for the emergence of atopic diseases and asthma [9]. Based on scientific studies, smokers have a higher level of IgE than non-smokers [10, 11]. \r\nIt has been revealed that IgE (Imonoglobin E) and mast cells play an important role in allergic inflammations. Scientific findings corroborate the fact that IgE is a key and effective factor in inflammatory reactions and plays an important role in pathogenesis of allergic diseases such as asthma [12].\r\nThe findings of previous studies indicate increased IgE levels and reduced total antioxidant capacity in response to smoking. However, the question is that whether these changes are the direct result of smoking or each of them also independently affects other levels. Hence, the present paper aims to answer the hypothesis that there is a significant relationship between total antioxidant capacity and serum IgE levels.\r\nMETHODS\r\nA. Human Subjects\r\nThis study conducted on thirty adult men with cigarette smoking between 33 and 48 years old who voluntarily participated in this study. All study participants gave informed consent for the study by signing a form approved by Islamic Azad University, Iran. A detailed history and physical examination of each subject was carried out. Smoking 10 cigarettes a day for at least 5 years was main inclusion criteria. Participants were non-athletes and non-alcoholics. Participants were included if they had not been involved in regular physical activity/diet in the previous 6 months.\r\nSubjects with a history or clinical evidence of impaired fasting glucose or diabetes, recent myocardial infarction, active liver or kidney disease, the other chronic were excluded.\r\n \r\n Ahmadi, Shadmehri and Naji 383\r\n \r\nB. Anthropometric measures\r\nAnthropometric measurements (body height and weight, waist and hip circumference) were performed with the subjects wearing light underwear and without shoes. Abdominal obesity was determined as waist circumference measured in a standing position. Weight was measured by an electronic balance and height by a stadiometer. Height was measured on standing while the shoulders were tangent with the wall. Body mass index (BMI) was calculated as weight (kg) divided by squared height (m).\r\nC. Laboratory Analyses\r\nTo measure TAC and serum IgE, subjects asked to attend hematology lab after an overnight fast. Venous blood samples were obtained at rest between 8:00 and 9:00 am from the antecubital vein and Serum separated by centrifugation. The Intra- assay coefficient of variation and sensitivity of the method were 5.87% and 1.0 IU/mL, respectively for IgE (Monobind Inc, CA 92630, USA). TAC was determined by FRAP method (the sensitivity of method was 0.1 Units/ml).\r\nD. Statistical analysis\r\nData were analyzed by computer using SPSS software version 15.0. Normal distribution of data was analyzed by the Kolmogorov-Smirnov normality test. The association between serum IgE concentration and TAC were assessed using Pearson’s correlation coefficient. A P-value of < 0.05 was considered to be statistically significant.\r\nRESULTS\r\nOur objective of present study was to determine of relationship between serums IgE with total antioxidant capacity in adult smoker men. The physical and biochemical characteristics of the subjects are shown in Table 1. \r\nSerum IgE was found to be negatively associated with total antioxidant capacity in studied subjects (p = 0.011, r = 0.46, Fig. 1). Between all anthropometrical markers, abdominal obesity was negatively correlated with total antioxidant capacity in subjects (p = 0.039, r = 0.38, Fig. 2).\r\nDISCUSSION\r\nA significant relationship was observed between serum IgE levels and total antioxidant capacity in the studied smokers. In other words, the findings of this study indicate that decrease in the total antioxidant capacity is followed by increased level of IgE, as an immunoglobulin stimulating allergy, in smokers. This supports the existence of a link between allergic stimuli and the antioxidant defense system in smokers.\r\nSmokers are highly susceptible to cardiovascular diseases, chronic respiratory diseases, metabolic disorders, and diseases associated with metabolic syndrome such as hypertension, diabetes, and malignant diseases [13, 14, 15]. Studies have shown that long-term smoking leads to increase in inflammatory markers such as C-Reactive protein (CRP), Interleukin-6 (IL-6), Tumor necrosis factor alpha (TNF-α), Resistin, and Interleukin-1 beta (IL-1ß), altogether cause and intensify chronic diseases including diabetes type 2, asthma, and cardiovascular diseases [16, 17, 18, and 19]. In addition, some previous studies indicate the direct relationship of smoking with levels of total cholesterol and low-density lipoprotein cholesterol and its inverse relationship with high-density lipoprotein cholesterol [20]. Although some changes caused by smoking are reversible after quitting it, some studies have reported that the levels of these inflammatory mediators stay high even after 10 to 20 years [17]. Some scientific references have stated that quitting smoking can delay the risk of cardiovascular disease 5 to 10 years. However, the immediate effects of quitting smoking on inflammatory biomarkers associated with cardiovascular risk factors have not fully understood yet [21].\r\nIt has been found that level of lipid peroxidation is higher in smokers than non-smokers, which leads to atherosclerosis through the destruction of lipids [22]. It should be also noted that tobacco, for unknown reasons, reduces the antioxidant capacity of saliva [23]. Imbalance of the level of free radicals and reactive oxygen forms with antioxidants due to cigarette smoke could have a key role in the onset and development of inflammatory lesions in the mouth [24, 25, and 26]. Studies have shown that cigarette smoke is a major source of free radicals and tobacco smoke contains oxidation and peroxidation agents [27].\r\nExtensive studies on the increased cardiovascular diseases in smokers mostly have emphasized on reduction in antioxidants levels and increase in oxidized lipid and lipoprotein levels followed by smoking [28, 29]. \r\nOn the other hand, smoking leads to a decline in buffering function of the pulmonary epithelium against allergens, as increased IgE resulting from smoking, as an allergic stimulus, leads to increased allergic inflammation or allergic diseases such as asthma [30]. Most studies in this regard have reported higher levels of IgE in smokers compared with non-smokers [10, 11]. The negative effects of smoking are such that even those who are exposed to cigarette smoke have higher levels of IgE than others [31].\r\nGenerally, the harmful effects of smoke lead to both decreased total antioxidant capacity and increased levels of IgE. These findings confirm the close relationship of allergic stimuli with oxidative stress and antioxidant defense system. It is also probable that the increase in free radicals and other oxidants, in response to a decrease in the total antioxidant capacity or reduced oxidative defense caused by smoking, leads to increased level of IgE that triggers allergic diseases like asthma. Some studies have supported the impact of both oxidative stress and mast cells in acute lung injuries [32]. It was concluded in a study that oxidative stress stimulates the expression of genes of some inflammatory cytokines in mast cells [33]. Since some studies have proved the direct relationship between IgE and inflammatory cytokines [34, 35], it seems that the increased expression of gene or increased levels of inflammatory cytokines in oxidative stress condition underlie an increase in secretion of IgE from these cells. \r\n','Mozhgan Ahmadi, Saeedeh Shadmehri and Mahdi Naji (2014). Antioxidative and Allergic Profile in Adult Men with Cigarette Smoking. Biological Forum – An International Journal 6(2): 382-386. '),(4593,'120','test','test','65 YADOLLAH FARAHMAND @ ZIBIALAH F.pdf','',1,'test','test','test','test','test'),(4594,'125','Genetic Variability and Association Analysis for some Forage and Seed yield Related Traits in F4 and F5 Generations of Oat (Avena sativa L.)','Jyoti Kumari*, V.K. Sood, Pallavi Mishra, Sawan Kumar, Sanjay Kumar Sanadya and Gaurav Sharma','1 Genetic Variability and Association Analysis for some Forage and Seed yield Related Traits in F4 and F5 Generations of Oat Avena sativa L. Jyoti Kumari.pdf','',1,'The present investigation was conducted to estimate genetic variability and association analysis on progenies from seven different crosses of oat in F4 and F5 generations. The analysis of variance revealed sufficient genetic variability among the genotypes for all the traits under study. Highest magnitude of PCV and GCV along with high heritability and high genetic advance was recorded for fresh fodder yield per plant, dry matter yield per plant, grain yield per plant and crude protein yield per plant in both generations. Significance and high direct effects towards grain yield per plant were shown by days to 75% maturity, harvest index, number of leaves per plant and number of tillers per plant; whereas, by dry matter yield per plant, crude protein yield per plant, leaf area and dry matter per cent towards fresh fodder yield per plant suggesting these traits as the best selection indices to obtain high yielding genotypes of oat.','Oat, variability, heritability, genetic advance, correlation, path coefficient','The analysis of variance revealed significant differences among the genotypes for all the traits in both the generations implying the presence of sufficient genetic variability and scope for selecting promising genotypes with desirable attributes under study. The phenotypic coefficients of variation values were higher than corresponding genotypic coefficient of variation for all the characters studied in both generations. Fresh fodder yield per plant, dry matter yield per plant, grain yield per plant and crude protein yield per plant should be given top priority for their direct selection as they have recorded high magnitudes of phenotypic and genotypic coefficient of variation as well as high heritability along with high genetic advance for successive breeding programme. Correlation and path analysis indicated the significance and high direct effects of traits like days to 75% maturity, harvest index, number of leaves per plant and number of tillers per plant towards grain yield per plant; whereas, significance and high direct effects were also shown by dry matter yield per plant, crude protein yield per plant, leaf area and dry matter per cent towards fresh fodder yield per plant and were also found to contribute indirectly towards grain yield per plant. Therefore, these traits serve as the best selection indices to obtain high yielding genotypes.','INTRODUCTION\r\nOat (Avena sativa L., 2n=6x=42) is an important cereal fodder crop constituent of family Gramineae. It is primarily grown during the Rabi season under both irrigated and rainfed conditions. About 10 million hectares of cultivated oat (Avena sativa L.) is planted each year, yielding approximately 23 million metric tonnes of grains worldwide (USDA, 2020-21). In India, oat is grown as a dual-purpose crop, covering approximately 0.1 million hectares and yielding 35-50 tonnes of green fodder per hectare (Anonymous, 2014). It is grown in many states across the country, including the North Western, southern and eastern states. The crop provides green fodder during winter season in the Himalayan region, when green fodder is scarce which is rich in approximately 10-13% protein and 10-30% dry matter (Priyanka et al., 2021). It is widely adopted by farmers for all types of livestock due to the presence of sufficient soluble carbohydrates which provide good silage along with palatable roughage straw that is also excellent for bedding. Within the regions of Himalayas, this crop incorporates a more extensive flexibility since of its great developing environment and speedy recovery (Sood et al., 2016). Oat grain has long been an important livestock feed, but it is now also being used for human consumption in the form of baby food and breakfast cereal. The main cause of lower milch animal productivity in India is an inadequate supply of high-quality feed and fodder. With the emergence of growing dairy sector in our nation, the oat has captivated the attention of breeders due to its nutritious quality fodder and grains with significant net energy gains as animal feed. Land for agricultural purpose is limited, so forage availability should be raised through increasing the yield per unit area. Therefore, efforts are being made to cultivate high yielding varieties for both forage and grains (Singhal et al., 2018). The genetic variability has a significant impact on the success of any breeding programme, as it increases the likelihood of selecting desired genotypes. According to Burton and De Vane (1953) amenability of given character for its improvement is determined by the extent of genotypic variability present in it. Phenotypic and genotypic variance (GCV & PCV), heritability along with genetic advance have been used to assess the magnitude variation. High heritability coupled with high genetic advance for different yield components is found to have a better scope for selecting high yielding genotypes. Knowledge about the correlation relationship between yield and its component traits is helps in eliminating the characters of little or no use during selection but when more number of variables are considered, the association becomes more and more complex. The problem can be resolved by path analysis which emphasizes on the nature and magnitude of direct and indirect contributions of traits and aids in selecting the suitable traits to advance the crop yield (Dewey and Lu 1959). Keeping the above points in context, the present research was conducted to estimate the nature and magnitude of genetic parameters of variability, correlation and path analysis in F4 and F5 generations of oat.\r\nMATERIAL AND METHODS\r\nThe research material comprises of 29 F4 and 28 F5 progenies derived from seven different crosses namely, PLP-1×HJ-8, HJ-8×JPO-46, HJ-8×PLP-1, HJ-8×EC528896, HJ-8× A. sterilis cv. HFO-878, HJ-8×KRR-AK-26 and PLP-1× A. byzantine cv. HFO-60includingfive checks. During Rabi, 2019-20, F4 progenies were evaluated in Randomized Block Design with three replications. Each treatment consist of 3 rows of 2 m each having row to row spacing of 25 cm and 10 cm for plant to plant. Selection from each progeny was done on the basis of yield and otherdesirable characters and derived F5 progenies were evaluated during Rabi, 2020-21 following the same method undertaken during evaluation of F4 generation. The observations were recorded on fifteenrandomly selected plants taken from each genotype of each replication for different morphological, yield and its contributing traits, viz., days to 50% flowering, plant height (cm), number of tillers per plant, number of leaves per plant, leaf area (cm2), fresh fodder yield per plant (g), dry matter per cent, dry matter yield per plant (g), days to 75 % maturity, grain yield per plant (g), harvest index (%), 100 grain weight (g), crude protein content (%) and crude protein yield per plant (g). Analysis of variance was carried out as per standard procedure by Panse and Sukhatme, 1985, genotypic coefficient of variation (GCV) and phenotypic coefficient of variation (PCV) were estimated as per suggested by Burton and Devane, 1953, heritability and genetic advance were calculated following Burton and Devane, 1953 and Johnson et al., 1955.Phenotypic, genotypic and environmental correlation coefficients were worked out as per the procedure of Al-Jibouri et al. (1958); Dewey and Lu (1959) and path analysis of important yield and component traits was done following Dewey and Lu (1959).\r\nRESULTS AND DISCUSSION\r\nThe results from analysis of variance revealed that the mean sum of square due to genotypes was significant for all the traits studied such as days to 50% flowering, plant height (cm), number of tillers per plant, number of leaves per plant, leaf area (cm2), fresh fodder yield per plant (g), dry matter per cent, dry matter yield per plant (g), days to 75 % maturity, grain yield per plant (g), harvest index (%), 100 grain weight (g); and quality traits viz., crude protein content (%) and crude protein yield per plant (g) among all the genotypes in both F4 and F5 generations (Table 1). Similar results were also reported by Singh and Singh (2011); Nirmalakumari et al., (2013); Premkumar et al., (2017); Kumari et al., (2017); Chauhan and Singh (2019) which indicated that sufficient variability existed in the present set of material and further genetic analysis and study would be meaningful.\r\nPCV estimates were greater than GCV estimates for all the traits studied in the both F4 and F5 generations, indicating that the apparent variation is the result of both genotypic as well as environmental influences. However, there was little difference in genotypic and phenotypic coefficients of variation, revealing that they are highly heritable and relatively stable in nature. So, phenotypic performance based selection would be effective in improving these traits (Table 2). Similar findings were reported by Singh and Singh (2011); Surje and De (2014); Kumari et al. (2017) for all the \r\ncharacters studied indicating the importance of environment on the expression of these characters. Highest magnitude of PCV and GCV (> 20%) in F4 generation were obtained for dry matter yield per plant (46.36%, 44.97%) followed by crude protein yield per plant (43.83%, 43.25%), dry matter per cent (31.77%, 30.24%), fresh fodder yield per plant (29.58%, 27.88%) and grain yield per plant (28.32%, 26.50%), while high PCV was also observed for number of leaves per plant (24.11%) and number of tillers per plant (20.54%).\r\n \r\nLikewise, highest magnitude of PCV and GCV were recorded for dry matter yield per plant (38.94%, 34.53%) followed by crude protein yield per plant (24.91%, 24.52%), fresh fodder yield per plant (23.35%, 21.44%) and grain yield per plant (21.40%, 20.37%), while high PCV was obtained for number of tillers per plant (22.05%) and dry matter per cent (21.40%) in F5 generation. Surje and De (2014) also reported high estimates of GCV and PCV for grain yield per plant and green forage yield per plant. The results are in agreement with those obtained earlier by Kapoor et al. (2011); Singh and Singh (2011); Surje and De (2014); Revathi et al. (2016); Kumari et al. (2017); Rani et al. (2018); Chauhan and Singh (2019); Rawat et al. (2019); Sahu and Tiwari (2020).\r\nHeritability in broad sense (>70%) was highest for crude protein yield per plant (97.39%) followed by dry matter yield per plant (94.12%), dry matter per cent (90.58%), fresh fodder yield per plant (88.82%), grain yield per plant (87.53%), days to 75% maturity (85.53%), crude protein content (81.69%), 100 grain weight (78.43%) and plant height (73.20%) in the F4 generation. Likewise, in F5 generation, estimates of heritability were also high for crude protein yield per plant (96.92%), grain yield per plant (90.62%), fresh fodder yield per plant (84.29%), dry matter yield per plant (78.61%), crude protein content (78.15%), number of tillers per plant (75.85%), dry matter per cent (72.50%), 100 grain weight (71.90%) and leaf area (71.73%). \r\nHigh heritability along with high genetic advance as percent of mean were observed for fresh fodder yield per plant, dry matter per cent, dry matter yield per plant, grain yield per plant, 100 grain weight and crude protein yield per plant in the F4 generation. Moreover, in F5 generation, number of tillers per plant, fresh\r\nfodder yield per plant, dry matter per cent, dry matter yield per plant, grain yield per plant and crude protein yield per plant showed high heritability along with high genetic advance. Same results were also supported by Singh and Singh (2011); Kapoor et al. (2011); Krishana et al. (2013). The results indicated that the inheritance of these characters is predominantly controlled by additive gene action and direct selection would be rewarding. Low estimates of heritability along with low genetic advance were recorded for harvest index and days to 50% flowering in F4 and F5 generations, respectively, indicating that the selection for these trait would be ineffective due to the presence of non-additive gene action. These results are in accordance with Bind et al. (2016); Rani et al. (2018); Chaudhary et al. (2020).\r\nAt phenotypic level, grain yield per plant was significantly and positively correlated with number of tillers per plant, number of leaves per plant and harvest index in both F4 and F5 generations (Table 3 and 4), whereas significantly negative with crude protein yield per plant in F5 generation. Genotypic correlation provides more reliable measure of genetic association between traits than phenotypic correlation. For most traits, the magnitude of genotypic correlations were observed to be higher than their corresponding phenotypic correlations, indicating that there is a strong inherent association between various traits and that genotypes were less influenced by environmental conditions. At genotypic level, grain yield per plant found to be significant and positively correlated with number of tillers per plant, number of leaves per plant and harvest index in both F4 and F5 generations. Similar results were also obtained by Deep et al. (2019) for tillers per plant, leaves per plant and harvest index; Tessema and Getinet (2020) for tillers per plant and harvest index; Mecha et al. (2017) for harvest index; Baye et al. (2020) for harvest index, days to 75% maturity, days to 50% flowering and crude protein yield per plant; Kumar et al. (2016); Jaipal and Shekhawat (2016) for days to 50 per cent flowering; Gungor et al. (2017); Baye et al. (2020) for days to maturity with grain yield. \r\nFresh fodder yield per plant, at both phenotypic and genotypic level, showed significant and positive correlation with number of tillers per plant, number of leaves per plant, leaf area, dry matter per cent, dry matter yield per plant and crude protein yield per plant in both F4 and F5 generations. It was also significant and positively correlated with plant height and harvest index (genotypic level) in F4 generation but significantly negative with days to 75% maturity. However, in F5 generation, it was significant and positively correlation with days to 75% maturity. Similar results were also reported by Bibi et al. (2012) for green fodder yield with leaf area, number of tillers and dry matter yield; Dubey et al. (2014) for dry matter yield, tillers per plant and leaves per plant; Devi et al. (2018) for tillers per plant, leaves per plant, dry matter yield per plant and crude protein yield per plant in F2, F3 and F4 generations of oat; Chaudhary et al. (2020) for green fodder yield with plant height and dry fodder yield per plant and by Negi et al. (2019) for tillers per plant and dry matter yield. \r\nHighest positive direct effects towards grain yield per plant were contributed by crude protein yield per plant, dry matter yield per plant and leaf area at genotypic level followed by harvest index, days to 75% maturity, number of leaves per plant at phenotypic level in F4 and at both phenotypic and genotypic levels by all these traits in F5 generation. Furthermore, traits viz., leaf area, crude protein content, dry matter per cent also showed positive direct effect towards grain yield per plant in F5 generation at both phenotypic and genotypic levels (Table 5 and 6).\r\nLikewise, highest indirect contributions towards grain yield per plant were made via crude protein yield per plant, dry matter yield per plant, days to 50% flowering and 100 grain weight at genotypic and by harvest index and number of leaves per plant at phenotypic level in F4followed dry matter per cent at phenotypic level in F5 generation. Indirect contributions were also revealed via number of leaves per plant and harvest index at both phenotypic and genotypic and levels in F5 generation. For fresh fodder yield per plant, dry matter yield per plant gave the highest positive direct and indirect contribution in both F4 and F5 generation followed by direct effects of crude protein yield per plant and leaf area in F4 and by number of leaves per plant, leaf area, grain yield per plant and crude protein content in F5 generation (Table 7 and 8). Similar results were also obtained by Kumar et al. (2016) for days to maturity; Sabit et al. (2017); Mecha et al. (2017); Baye et al. (2020) for harvest index; Wagh et al. (2018) for crude protein content; Jaipal and Shekhawat (2016) for dry matter yield towards both grain yield and green fodder yield; Negi et al. (2019) for dry fodder yield on grain yield and by Chaudhary et al. (2020) for leaves per plant and dry fodder yield per plant.','Jyoti Kumari, V.K. Sood, Pallavi Mishra, Sawan Kumar, Sanjay Kumar Sanadya and Gaurav Sharma (2022). Genetic Variability and Association Analysis for some Forage and Seed yield Related Traits in F4 and F5 Generations of Oat (Avena sativa L.). Biological Forum – An International Journal, 14(2): 01-09.'),(4595,'125','Genetic Divergence Analysis among M4 Mutant Lines of Finger Millet (Eleusine coracana L. Gaertn.)','Prashant Vasisth*, S. Rangaiah, Mohit Sharma and Vaibhav Chittora','2 Genetic Divergence Analysis Among M4 Mutant Lines of Finger Millet Eleusine coracana L. Gaertn. Vinay Kardam.pdf','',1,'Induced genetic divergence was estimated in thirty one M4 mutant lines of finger millet var. GPU 28 and twenty seven M4 mutant lines of finger millet var. KMR 204, developed by gamma rays using multivariate analysis using Mahalanobis’ (1936). Mutant lines of GPU 28 were grouped into seven clusters and of KMR 204 grouped into six clusters. Cluster I and IV of mutant lines of GPU 28 and cluster II and IV of mutant lines of KMR 204 were found to be more divergent than others indicates high amount of diversity between these clusters. Significant difference was observed among cluster means for most of the traits. Mutant lines from these clusters can be used to develop high yielding cultivars. Maximum percentage of contribution to the genetic divergence was displayed by 1000- seed weight (58.40) in mutated population of KMR 204 and days to 50 % flowering (47.10) in mutated population of GPU 28. Present study of D2 analysis suggested that mutant lines belonging to the diverse clusters could be used in hybridization programme to enhance the productivity of finger millet.','Induced genetic divergence, finger millet, Gamma rays, D2 analysis, Mutant lines','Genetic divergence study using D2 statistic showed the presence of substantial diversity among the mutant lines of both the varieties. D2 analysis grouped the mutant lines of GPU 28 into 7 clusters and KMR 204 into 6 clusters. Cluster I and IV were found to be more divergent in cluster analysis of mutant line of GPU 28 and cluster II and IV were divergent among mutant lines of KMR 204. Mutant lines from these divergent clusters could be used in future hybridization programme to get desirable segregates.','INTRODUCTION\r\nFinger millet (Eleusine coracana (L.) Gaertn.) Sub-species coracana belongs to family Poaceae/Graminae and generally known as ragi, nachani and nagli. It is a tetraploid (2n = 36) with morphological resemblance to both E. indica (L.) Gaertn. having chromosome number 2n = 18 and E. Africana O. Byrne with chromosome number 2n = 36. It was domesticated from Ethiopia to Uganda about 5000 years ago. In India, it was introduced around 3000 years ago. Finger millet is a widely grown traditional and highly nutritious grain cereal crop (Sawardekar, 2016). It is cultivated in the semi-arid areas of Eastern and Southern Africa and South Asia, where it is a staple food for millions of poor people. It is also acknowledged for its health advantageous effects, like antidiabetic, anti-diarrheal, anti tumerogenic, anti-inflammatory, atherosclerogenic, antiulcer, antimicrobial and antioxidant properties. An enormous number of small farmers cultivate finger millet with limited water resources and in numerous nations this crop is frequently known as “poor people’s crop”. It is cultivated in the semi-arid areas of Eastern and Southern Africa and South Asia, where it is a staple food for millions of poor people. \r\nThe long history of cultivation in Indian subcontinent under diverse agro ecological conditions and the associated natural and human selection has resulted in large diversity in the crop. India is often considered as secondary centre of origin for finger millet. In India, ragi is cultivated in an area of 1138.2 thousand-hectare with the production of 1821.9 mt and productivity of 1601 kg/ha majorly in Karnataka, Andhra Pradesh, Tamil Nadu, Maharashtra, Uttarakhand and Odisha (Anonymous, 2018). In India, area of finger millet stands sixth after wheat, rice, maize, sorghum and bajra (Chandra et al., 2016). As we know, population is still expanding while no significant increase in arable lands is foreseen. There is need to enhance the productivity of finger millet to feed the large population. Heterosis breeding is one of the important ways to achieve high productivity. The hybrids between to two divergent groups normally show high amount of heterosis than the hybrids between two genetically similar groups (Dwivedi et al., 1998; Melchinger, 1999). D2 analysis was generally used by many researchers in order to find more divergent lines that can be used to make hybrids. Muduli and Misra (2008) have done genetic divergence analysis in micro-mutant lines in finger millet and found divergent mutant lines. Similarly, Patel et al. (2019); Suryanarayana et al. (2019); Keerthana and Chitra (2020) also conducted D2analysis in finger millet and got divergent genotypes. In the present study, D2 analysis was used to identify divergent mutant line from M4 mutant lines of GPU 28 and KMR 204.\r\nMATERIALS AND METHODS \r\nThe present study on induced mutations in finger millet was carried out at K block, GKVK, University of Agricultural Sciences; Bangalore represents Eastern Dry Agro Climatic Zone (Zone V) of Karnataka which is located at 12.9716°N latitude and 77.5946°E longitude and an altitude of 920 m above MSL. Material used for the present study comprised of M4 seeds selected for productivity per se traits form M3 generation derived from the gamma irradiation of finger millet varieties GPU 28 and KMR 204. These 58 selected mutants (31 M4 mutants of GPU 28 and 27 M4 mutants of KMR 204) were evaluated in Randomized complete block design with three replications with two checks (GPU 28 and KMR 204). Observation on days to 50 per cent flowering and days to panicle maturity were recorded on plot basis. Plant height (cm), productive tillers plant-1, fingers ear-1, finger length (cm), ear weight plant-1 (g), seed yield plant-1 (g) and 1000 - seed weight (g) were recorded on five randomly selected plants for each line in every replication. Estimation of genetic divergence was done by multivariate analysis using Mahalanobis’ (1936). D2 statistic calculated as described by Rao (1952). Contribution of each trait to the divergence, intra and inter cluster distance and cluster means were estimated in the present study.\r\nRESULTS AND DISCUSSION\r\nA. Distribution of M4 mutant lines into different clusters\r\nDiversity analysis is very crucial for plant breeders for identification of divergent genotypes which will help further in exploitation of heterosis. Mahalanobis’(1936) D2 analysis is one of the important tool to classify the genotypes into different clusters. In the present study, the M4 population of GPU 28 was classified into 7 clusters and m4 population of KMR 204 into six clusters (Table 1&2). This indicates the presence of the diversity among the mutant lines of both genotypes. In both the mutated population, cluster 1 showed maximum number of mutant lines. Cluster I of mutated population of GPU 28 has 8 lines and of KMR 204 has 12 mutant lines. Similar diversity analysis was done by Muduli and Misra (2008) in micro-mutants of finger millet and classified into different clusters.\r\nInter- cluster and intra cluster D2 value indicates the amount of diversity among and within the clusters. Maximum inter cluster distance (392.01) was observed between cluster I and cluster IV and lowest inter cluster distance (52.73) was between cluster III and cluster IV in mutated population of GPU 28 (Table 3). In case of mutated population of KMR 204, maximum inter cluster distance (710.60) was observed between cluster II and cluster IV and lowest inter cluster distance (140.52) was observed between cluster I and cluster III (Table 4). Maximum intra cluster distance (40.78) was observed in cluster V and lowest (16.50) in cluster VI in mutated population of GPU 28 (Table 3). Maximum intra cluster distance (84.08) was found in cluster V and cluster VI has intra cluster distance is zero because of only one genotype in the cluster in the mutated \r\npopulation of KMR 204 (Table 4). Inter cluster distance was found to be maximum between cluster I and IV in mutated population of GPU 28 and between II and IV in case of mutated population of KMR 204. This indicates high amount of diversity between these clusters. Diversity is very important factor in exploitation of heterosis. Hybrid between diverse genotypes belongs to different cluster would be more effective than hybrid between less diverse genotypes. So, mutant lines from these diverse clusters can be used in hybridization programme in order to get high yielding hybrids or to get vast variability among the segregants. Similar results in finger millet were reported by Devaliya et al. (2017); Suryanarayana et al. (2014); Mahanthesha et al. (2017); Keerthana and Chitra (2020).\r\n B. Cluster means of different traits used under study\r\nResults indicated the significant difference among cluster means for most of the trait used under study in both the mutated population (Table 5 & 6). In case of mutated population of GPU 28, lowest value (101.17) for days to panicle maturity was observed in cluster I, highest value (8.46) was found for fingers ear-1 in cluster III, highest value for productive tillers plant-1 (5.14), highest value for finger length (8.74) and highest value for ear head weight (56.52), all were \r\nobserved in cluster IV. Cluster VII had the highest mean value for seed yield plant-1 (36.39) and for 1000- seed weight (3.43). In case of mutated population of KMR 204, Cluster I had the highest mean value for the seed yield plant-1 (36.19), ear head weight plant-1 (55.98), fingers ear-1 (8.23) and productive tillers plant-1 (5.52). Cluster IV had the highest mean value for 1000- seed weight (3.43). Cluster V had the highest mean value for finger length (7.67). Mutant lines from these clusters can be used to develop high yielding cultivars.\r\nC. Trait contribution to the genetic divergence\r\nTrait contribution to the genetic divergence for both the mutated population were presented in Fig. 1 and 2. Maximum percentage of contribution to the genetic divergence was displayed by 1000- seed weight (58.40) followed by days to 50 % flowering (25.64), finger length (9.12) and days to panicle maturity (3.99) in mutated population of KMR 204. In mutated population of GPU 28, maximum percentage of contribution to the genetic divergence was displayed by days to 50 % flowering (47.10) followed by 1000- seed weight (40.43), finger ear-1 (5.16) and plant height (3.01). Similar results were reported by Patel et al. (2019) in finger millet.\r\n\r\n\r\n','Prashant Vasisth, S. Rangaiah, Mohit Sharma and Vaibhav Chittora (2022). Genetic Divergence Analysis among M4 Mutant Lines of Finger Millet (Eleusine coracana L. Gaertn.). Biological Forum – An International Journal, 14(2): 10-13.'),(4596,'120',' Limbic System and Second Language Acquisition: Reconsidering the Role of Emotion','Parviz Maftoon, Nima Shakouri and Ogholgol Nazari','66 PARVIZ MAFTOON, NIMA SHAKOURI AND OGHOLGOL NAZARI FINAL REVISED.pdf','',1,'Although the study of emotional brain has long been taken heed in second language acquisition (SLA), the current study makes an endeavour to reconsider the stance of emotional brain in SLA from neuroscientific perspectives. In so doing, inspired by Lamendella (1977) who holds that first language acquisition (FLA) is generally based on the limbic system, the present paper insists that SLA in a natural setting entail greater involvement on the part of limbic system. Henceforth, as to the present writers, investigating the function of learners\' limbic system in SLA will contribute to our understanding of SLA.','formal instruction, informal instruction, limbic system, empiricism, nativism ','Although the study of emotional brain has long been ignored in SLA, recent contributions of neuroscience are in attempts to remedy the deficiency by revealing the emotional dimension of learning. Our emotion about language affects our desires to learn a language. Although \"emotion is too elusive and vague\" and is not trusted in the laboratory (Damasio. 1999, p. 39), it can not only facilitate but debilitate the process of SLA. In sum, as to Bognar and Dubovicki (2012), \"emotions in classes are present… as a sort of atmosphere we call emotional climate that can be favourable and unfavourable\" (p. 136). However, Cozolino (2006) considers emotion as safe emergency for learning to take place. To increase learning effectiveness, teachers should allow their students\' voice to be heard and their emotion to blossom. \r\nIn fact, the insights that the students have gleaned give them the chance and ability to construct their views of the world. In fact, it can be claimed that humanizing L2 learners influences their ability to draw material from the long-term memory (Stevick, 1999). In the long run, it goes without saying that limbic system structures, amygdale and hippocampus play important roles in memory storage. \r\n','Emotion is embedded at the root of informal instruction. The seating of emotion, the limbic system, is inevitably involved in the formation of memory, and conclusively in second language acquisition (SLA) in informal contexts (Lamendella, 1977). The term limbic was earlier introduced by Willis (1664) to designate a cortical border encircling the brainstem. Schumann (1997, cited in Arnold & Fonseca, 2004, p. 121) asserts that “brain stem, limbic and front limbic areas, which comprise the stimulus appraisal system, emotionally modulate cognition such that, in the brain, emotion and cognition are distinguishable but inseparable. Therefore, from a neural perspective, affect is an integral part of cognition”. Henceforth, though emotion and cognition are not neatly divided in the brain (Hendel-Giller, et al., 2010), emotion exists at the heart of every cognitive theory. LeDoux (2000) also declares that virtually all mental activities involve both emotion and cognition. The present paper asserts that young educators suffer from a false dichotomy: genetics or experience. They probably have difficulty in deciding whether to follow empiricists\' or nativists\' implications. The present paper insists that it is time that specialists begin to re-describe the theories raised in SLA, and now test the key words in the given theories in order to corroborate the very hypotheses in order to pave the way toward their falsification. Raising new theories in the air is so much perilous that scholars reach nowhere. That Krashen (1981), for instance, claims informal environments are conducive to SLA is based on the truism that the amount of intake the acquirer can get is rich in informal contexts. In fact, according to Krashen, \"the acquisition-rich classroom might be extremely efficient\" (p.116) in SLA. Accordingly, what the present paper is of the thought is that the plausibility of the very efficiency can be justified neuropsychologically. In other words, when the content to be learned is associated with strong positive emotions, students are more likely to retain newly-learned information (Krashen, 1982). Seen from this stance, Krashen\'s input hypothesis can be in support of the function of limbic system involvement in SLA. Research in the field of educational psychology declares that affective variables might be the cause of lack of knowing. The affective variables that scholars (e.g., Krashen, 1981; Scovel 1969) refer to are related to the learners\' emotions that emerge from the human limbic system. So much has been reported regarding the stance of emotion in SLA; however, less has been paid to the seating of emotion in the limbic system. Whether the limbic system has a qualitative effect on SLA is a matter of issue that the given paper makes an attempt to revitalize. In a sense, situating the stance of emotion in SLA, the present researchers assert that the overall effect of limbic system on SLA will be conceivable provided that it is held in a natural context. The same effect is respected not merely genetic- but also experience-based. The current paper, in this regard, is in an attempt to provide a critical view on situating the stance of the limbic system in SLA. \r\n \r\n\r\nREVIEW OF RELATED LITERATURE\r\nThere has always been a dichotomy in the definition of learning. As to Hinton, Miyamoto, and Della-Chiesa (2008), in SLA, there seems to be a dramatic sporting event between genetics (nature) and experience (nurture). The false dichotomy emanates from two absolutist perspectives in education. The first position, nativism, believes knowledge, per se, originates in nature. In other words, it is genetic. The idea goes back to Kant and Plato. Later, Chomsky (1957) revitalizes Plato\'s concept of mind in a new theory coined as Universal Grammar. Chomsky asserts that UG is an innate property of mind and cannot be learned. Nevertheless, Chomsky himself was harshly criticized by Campbell and Wales (1970) as \"the man who, more than any other, has shown the shallowness, indeed the irrelevances of almost all behaviourist accounts of language acquisition\" (p. 245). \r\nThe empiricism, in contrast, contends that knowledge originates from the environment. Behaviourism has its roots within positivism (Williams & Burden, 1997). The term positivism as a version of empiricism (Richards & Schmidt, 2002) was first coined by the French Philosopher Auguste Comte who believed reality can be observed. In modern times, empiricism is closely associated with the psychologist, Skinner (1957). Skinner asserts that there are no limits to what a human being can learn because both the time and opportunity are available. However, much of the research in neurolinguistics has been dedicated to proving Skinner wrong by showing that children can go beyond the given input, creating novel sentences (Bates, 1998). \r\nUntil now, the story goes on; there have been successive and often contradictory attempts in providing a solid definition for learning. Nevertheless, we are haunted in unanswered questions that need to be empirically investigated. Raising questions in the air is futile; the paper holds that the raised questions, up to now, need to be seriously corroborated and attempts should be made toward their falsifications.\r\nHendel-Giller et al. (2010) assert that learning is the defining feature of human beings. To Hendel-Giller et al. \"learning is not just changing external behaviour, but changing the very wiring of the brain as it relates to those behaviours\" (p. 5). \r\nIn sum, it is a truism that through learning, the structure of the brain will change. Hendel-Giller et al., in the same line, go on to hold:\r\nLearning affects the brain in two different ways—either by altering existing connections or by creating brand new connections. New connections lead to an increase in overall synaptic density, while altering connections makes existing pathways more efficient or suitable. In both cases, \r\nthe brain is remolded to take in new data and, if useful, retain it. (p. 6) \r\nEmpiricism and nativism: Compromise or conflict? Learning is conducive to structural changes of the brain. To Hendel-Giller et al. (2010), the hippocampus, a part of the limbic system in the brain, is responsible for encoding declarative and episodic memory. Manning (2007), also, asserts that if a person is exposed to high levels of stress, for instance, activation in hippocampus increases, and as a result, the encoding of declarative and spatial memory gets debilitated. In contrast, another part of limbic structure, the amygdale, becomes more active under stress, and therefore memory of emotionally relevant experiences enhances. \r\nFor three decades SLA has suffered from a false dichotomy between experience and genetics. Moreover, one reason for making SLA as a deep puzzle is the fact that what appear to be as SLA theories is \"not in fact really theories, but rather either descriptive, non-explanatory frameworks for L2 researchers on the one hand, or else metaphors for organizing one\'s thoughts on the other\" (Gregg, 1993, p. 289). \r\nChappell (2010), in harmony with Gregg (1993), asserts that SLA theories are compatible with \"developing descriptive and explanatory power to account for how linguistic knowledge is instantiated in the brain and how L2 knowledge comes to be acquired in the brain\" (p. 61). In fact, Gregg (1993) is keen on developing SLA as an endotropic theory, which is \'self-generating, self-fertilizing, self renewing\' (Hasan, 2005, p. 51) \"and whose object of study is kept free of contamination from its context, and reduced to its simplest elements, allowing for unequivocal claims\" (Chappell, 2010, p. 61). \r\nParallel to the argument, Long (1993) argues that the rationale behind SLA theories should be oriented toward explaining how a second language becomes represented in the brain. In a sense, lack of a coherent general theory of SLA and also a coherent link to its empirical base (Gregg, 1993) ignite a flash fire among scholars to deeply investigate the role of brain in SLA. Henceforth, after two decades, the education community has started to realize that understanding the brain can help to open new pathways to improve educational research policy and practice. Nonetheless, nowadays, there appears to be a dynamic interplay between the two points of view—empiricism and nativism. Relativist inclination toward this dichotomy (i.e., genetics and experience) leads us to side Lantolf (1996), \"the world has witnessed far fewer atrocities as a result of excessive tolerance than it has as a consequence of absolutism\" (p. 722). What these absolutist camps—empericism and nativism— fear is relativism. In a sense, relativists (e.g., Schumann, 1984), as to Lantolf (1996), tend to be united in their belief that differences and heterogeneity are impediments to the mastery of truth. \r\nWhat the present authors take advantage of the given interplay is that the progress in SLA might be dependent upon the degree of limbic system involvement, as well. Put differently, \"a major contribution of neuroscience to education is the scientific confirmation that the brain develops through a dynamic and continuous interaction between biology and experience\" (Hinton et al., 2008, p. 88). \r\nAlthough two thousand years ago Plato stated that all learning is embedded in emotion, only in the last two decades have several scholars (e.g., Le Doux, 2000; Schumann, 1998) shown that emotion changes the neural structural of the brain. That emotion plays an important role in the process of learning is undeniable. But how emotional regulation affects the process of learning is still at the core of heated debate in neurolinguistics. For decades, so much ink has been spilt trying to explain SLA processes. Research (e.g., Manuel-Dupont et al., 1992) shows that formal and informal language learning have different neural representations in the brain. The quality of this representation probably depends on the degree of limbic system involvement. \r\nIn 1981, Krashen defines informal language learning or acquisition as that which is acquired in naturalistic communication settings where the user\'s attention is directed more to the content than the form of linguistic utterances. In contrast, formal language acquisition is characterized by the emphasis on the rule-governed system which makes the learners aware of the language. In a sense, Krashen makes a distinction between two types of knowledge: learning and acquiring. Learning, as a conscious process, takes place in artificial situations and is less permanent. Acquiring, in contrast, is a subconscious process and takes place in naturalistic situations and is more permanent. Krashen asserts that language acquisition is an incidental process that results in tacit linguistic knowledge, while language learning is an intentional process that results in conscious metalinguistic knowledge. \r\nOn situating the stance of limbic system: Lamendella (1977) contends that language acquisition and language learning have different neural representations with respect to the involvement of the limbic system. Similarly, Boeree (2009) maintains that the limbic system which lies on both sides of the thalamus is composed of a set of structures: the hypothalamus, hippocampus, amygdale, cingulated and other medial structures of the brain that form a ring about the inner border of the cortical mantle. As put by Boeree, the limbic system is highly responsible for the formation of memories and emotion. Regarding SLA, Lamendella (1997) puts forth that L1, in comparison with L2, is generally based on the limbic system. \r\nLamendella states when a second language is learned in a natural setting, it entails greater involvement on the part of limbic system. On the contrary, when the language is learned in a formal setting, like any other subject matter, it entails mainly neocortical structures. In this regard, Pavlenko (2005) makes a distinction between embodied languages and disembodied languages. Embodied languages are acquired within an emotional and contextual process, while disembodied languages are learned in a decontextualized process such as L2 classrooms. Pavlenko also asserts that SLA can also be considered as a contextualized process; thus, to her, emotional implication is not restricted to FLA. Henceforth, the limbic system is involved in L2 acquisition only if L2 appears as the linchpin of human beings\' affective life (Kopke, 2007).\r\nParadis (1985, cited in Manuel-Dupont et al., 1992), likewise, asserts that the limbic system is involved in the learning process. As to Paradis, limbic system is involved from fluent production of speech to the provision of empathy, and integrative attitudes. However, to Paradis, this involvement varies with the age of the learner, the degree of emotional involvement of the learner, the motivation to learn L2, and the relative prestige of the two languages in addition to the learning situation—formal versus informal (Manuel-Dupont et al., 1992).\r\nRegarding the involvement of limbic system in SLA, several other scholars including Kalbfleisch (2004) and LeDoux (2000) also share the same view. LeDoux (2000), for instance, maintains that the limbic system is highly connected with cortical areas involved in cognitive processing. The limbic system, known as the seat of emotion (MacLean, 1949), remains \"a significant factor in the functioning of human speech\" (Robinson, 1976, p. 769). In effect, the function of the limbic system is to generate emotion which is of great importance to learning and memory (Wolfe, 2001). \r\nIn sum, learning a new language has become a challenging journey where both experience and genetics are involved. On the journey, we experience a range of emotions along the ride. Emotional arousal usually results in the release of adrenaline (Huang, 2006). As to LeDoux (1996, cited in Huang, 2006), when adrenaline is released naturally, the related experience is remembered well. In fact, when a person feels angry, for instance, the amygdale in the limbic system will immediately downshift. As to Huang (2006), downshifting occurs when neocortex does not get sufficient glucose to function properly, causing the amygdale to prevent the brain from making rational decision. It is worth mentioning that emotions not only have their physical pathways in the brain, but also drive attention and create meaning (LeDoux, 1994, cited in Huang, 2006). Compatible with the notion of downshifting, Sylwester (2000, cited in Huang, 2006) asserts that the stronger the emotion associates with an experience, the greater is the assistance to cognitive learning. This does not mean that the emotion should be too strong, if so, downshifting occurs and learning decreases (Huang, 2006). \r\n \r\n \r\n\r\n \r\n Maftoon, Shakouri, and Nazari 401 \r\nEmotion and limbic system: Regarding SLA, Schumann (1998) puts forth that affective appraisal of stimuli is embedded at the core of cognition, and it results in our decision-making processes. As to Schumann, it is through experiencing the world and conducting affective appraisal of these experiences that human beings develop their own preferences and aversions. \r\n \"Managing one\'s emotion is one of the key skills of being an effective learner\" (OECD, 2007, p. 64). As to Reeve (2005) \"emotions are short-lived, feeling-arousal-purposive-expressive phenomena that help us adapt to the opportunities and challenges we face during important life events\" (p. 294). Regarding the importance of emotions in language learning, Bolitho et al. (2003) assert that language learning is enhanced when learners are “affectively engaged and when they willingly invest energy and attention in the learning process” (p.252). Along the same line, romantic humanists often claim that by touching the students\' emotions and invoking their inner selves, they will encourage more successful language learning (Gadd, 1998). Inspired by the work of Rousseau, the romantic philosophy is based on the truism that the essence of being human is to be a member of a community engaging in debate and action. Allowing students to speak from their vantage points and letting students\' emotion blossom facilitate the process of language learning. In other words, humanizing students through dialogue (Shakouri & Nazari, 2012) and creating a social band for them are at the heart of romantic humanism. Along the same vein, Schumann (1998) contends \"emotional reactions influence the attention and effort devoted to learning, and...patterns of appraisal may underline what has been considered motivation in SLA\" (p. 8). \r\nThe limbic system, according to Schumann (1998), involves innate homeostatic and sociostatic values; that is, innate dispositions related to survival and interaction with conspecifics. Schumann studying the biological aspect of motivation comes to hold that \"through evolution, all human beings inherit two systems of motivation: homeostatic and sociostatic regulation\" (p. 1). From one side, human beings are concerned with systems that allow to breathe, feed, stay warm and cool, and maintain an appropriate heart rate. In contrast, people are also driven by sociostates—the innate tendencies on the part of human being to seek out interaction with members of their community. These two systems foster human beings\' motor activity in the environment. \r\nRolls (1990), also, maintains that emotion has its role in creating the need for interaction. Correspondingly, it can be hypothesized that due to the short pathway from the thalamus to the amygdale information is received approximately a quarter of a second sooner than the cortex (LeDoux, 2000). Thus, educators need to be aware of the efficient side of the learning by virtue of emotions. As LeDoux goes on to hold, emotion drives attention, and \"the concept of attention is necessary in order to understand virtually every aspect of second language acquisitions\" (Schmidt, 2001, p. 3). \r\nOn the plausibility of informal instruction: Human language springs forth from roots buried within the depths of the limbic lobes buried in the body of the brain (Joseph, 2000). The emotional brain, the limbic system, is susceptible to open or close access to learning. \r\nConcern for SLA goes back to a burned generation, who, despite having spent years in formal classes, appear to be non-functioning (Gulmez & Shresta, 1993). In our classrooms, we see lots of learners whose intellectual energies are drained and their minds are paralyzed by negative emotional states. \r\nOn situating the stance of instruction, there appear several contradictory perspectives. For several scholars (e.g., Cook, 1991; Krashen, 1981) instruction makes no difference. They count the reasons as learners have access to Universal Grammar principles, and thus the learners do not need instruction. In fact, instruction takes place between UG principles and input. Pinemann (1998), though does not explicitly claim that formal instruction is unnecessary, recalls that formal instruction will not enable the learners to acquire any developmental features out of sequence because processability constrains acquisition. For another group of scholars, instruction is both beneficial (Schmidt, 1990) and necessary (Higgs & Clifford, 1982; VanPatten, 2003). Schmidt (1990) asserts that conscious attention to form is an inevitable condition for SLA. VanPatten (2003) also pinpoints that without formal instruction, learners\' linguistic system is to be fossilized. \r\nThe inclination toward informal instruction has more or less been observed among scholars. Though they did not refer their inclination to the learners\' seating of emotion—limbic system, the present paper insists that the root of their unwillingness toward formal instruction should be studied neuroscientifically. \r\nThe current study seems to throw some light of support to Krashen\'s input hypothesis that holds that SLA is the product of comprehensible input designed to convey messages in low anxiety situations. In fact, as to Gulmez and Shresta (1993), \"the formal subjects\' preoccupations with the form of the language at the expense of the meaning it conveyed not only hindered the smooth flow of their ESL speech but also disrupted the line of their communication\" (p. 82). \r\nIn sum, whereas there is not a unanimous perspective among scholars on what SLA theory can be, the present paper holds raising headlong ideologies in SLA results in incoherence. Henceforth, re-describing the terminologies raised by scholars (e.g., Krashen, 1981), though have been widely criticized can lead to the assimilation and the integration of ideas.\r\n\r\n \r\n \r\n Maftoon, Shakouri, and Nazari 402 \r\nNevertheless, so far, the story goes on, and we come up with a variety of contradictory theories that have haunted us in unanswered questions. To end up, to the current work, delving on the vocabulary raised by scholars can contribute to the integrity and rectitude among SLA theories.\r\n','Parviz Maftoon, Nima Shakouri and Ogholgol Nazari (2014). Limbic System and Second Language Acquisition: Reconsidering the Role of Emotion. Biological Forum – An International Journal (2): 398-403. '),(4597,'120','Coherent States in SU(2), SU(3), SU(4), SU(5) of Spin Systems and Calculate the Berry phase for Qubit, Qutrit, Qudit with spin – 1/2,1,3/2,2 particle in SU(2) in Quantum Mechanics','Yadollah Farahmand, Zabialah Heidarnezhad, Fatemeh Heidarnezhad,\r\nFatemeh Heydari and Kh. Kh Muminov\r\n','67 YADOLLAH FARAHMAND @ ZIBIALAH.pdf','',1,'In this paper, we develop the formulation of the spin coherent state in real parameterization SU(2), SU(3), SU(4), SU(5). We obtain Berry phase from Schrodinger equation. For vector states, basic kets are coherent states in real parameterization. We calculate Berry phase for qubit, qutrit, qudit with spin S = 1/2,1, 3/2,2 in SU(2) group and Berry phase.','quantum mechanics; coherent state; SU(n) group ; Hexadecimal pole moment; Berry phase.','We conclusion that result in two different base ketis similar. Berry phase application in optic, magnetic resonance, molecular and atomic physics [12,13].','In 1984 Berry published a paper which has until now deeply influenced the physical community. In mechanics (including classical mechanics as well as quantum mechanics), the Geometric phase, or the Pancharatnam-Berry phase (named after S. Pancharatnam and Sir Michael Berry), also known as the Pancharatnam phase or, morecom monly, Berry phase (Pancharatnam, 1956), Therein he considers cyclic evolutions of systems under special conditions, namely adiabatic ones. He finds that an additional phase factor occurs in contrast to the well-known dynamical phase factor is a phase acquired over the course of a cycle, when the system is subjected to cyclic adiabatic processes, resulting from the geometrical properties of the parameter space of the Hamiltonian. Apart from quantum mechanics, it arises in a variety of other wave systems, such as classical optics. As a rule of thumb, it occurs whenever there are at least two parameters affecting a wave, in the vicinity of some sort of singularity or some sort of hole in the topology. In non-relativistic quantum mechanics, the state of a system is described by the vector of the Hilbert space (the wave function) ∈ H which depends on time and some set of other variables depending on the considered problem. \r\nThe evolution of a quantum system in time t is described by the Schrodinger equation.\r\nWe consider a quantum system described by a Hamiltonian H that depends on a multidimensional real parameter R which parameterizes the environment of the system. The time evolution is described by the time dependent Schrodinger equation \r\nH(R(t) )|ψ(t) ┤ ├ ┤⟩=iℏ ∂/∂t |ψ(t) ┤ ├ ┤⟩ (1)\r\nWe can choose at any instant a basis of eigen states |n(R(t))┤ ├ ┤⟩for the Hamiltonian labelled by the quantum number n such that the eigen value equation is fulfilled \r\nH(R(t) )|n(R(t))┤ ├ ┤⟩=E_N (R(t) )|n(R(t) ) ┤ ├ ┤⟩ …(2)\r\nWe assume that the energy spectrum of H is discrete, that the eigen values are not degenerated and that no level crossing occurs during the evolution. Suppose the environment and therefore R(t) is adiabatically varied, that means the changes happen slowly in time compared to the characteristic time scale of the system. The system starts in the nth energy eigen state\r\n|ψ(0) ┤ ├ ┤⟩=|n(R(0))┤ ├ ┤⟩ (3)\r\n \r\n \r\n\r\n\r\n Farahmand, Heidarnezhad, Heidarnezhad, Fatemeh Heydari and Muminov 405\r\nThen according to the adiabatic theorem the system stays over the whole evolution in the nth eigen state of the instant Hamiltonian. But it is possible that the state gains some phase factor which does not affect the physical state. Therefore the state of the system can be written as\r\n|ψ(t) ┤ ├ ┤⟩=e^(iφ_n ) |n(R(t))┤ ├ ┤⟩ (4)\r\nOne would expect that this phase factor is identical with the dynamical phase factorθ_nwhich is the integral over the energy eigenvalues\r\nθ_n (t)=-1/ℏ ∫_0^t▒〖E_n (t^\' ) 〗 dt^\' (5)\r\nbut it is not forbidden by the adiabatic theorem and the Schrodinger equation to add another term Θ_nwhich is called the Berry phase (Yadollah 2014)\r\nφ_n (t)=θ_n (t)+Θ_n (t) (6)\r\nWe can determine this additional term by inserting the an sat z (4) together with equation (6) into the Schrodinger equation (1). This yields with the simplifying notation R ≡ R(t)\r\n∂/∂t |nR(t) ┤ ├ ┤⟩+i d/dt Θ_n (t)|nR(t) ┤ ├ ┤⟩=0 (7)\r\nAfter taking the inner product (which should be normalized) with |nR(t) ┤ ├ ┤⟩we get\r\nd/dt Θ_n (t)=i⟨nR(t)│∂/∂t│nR(t) ⟩ (8)\r\n\r\nd/dt Θ_n (t)=i⟨nR(t)│∇_R│nR(t) ⟩ dR/dt (9)\r\nand after the integration\r\n\r\nΘ_n (t)=i∫_(R_i)^(R_i)▒⟨nR(t)│∇_R│nR(t) ⟩ dR (10)\r\n\r\nwhere we introduced the notation\r\n\r\nA_k=i⟨ϕ│∂_k ϕ⟩ (12)\r\nThen the total change in the phase of the wave function is equal to the integra\r\nφ_n=-1/ℏ ∫_0^t▒E_n dt^\'+Θ_B (13)\r\nΘ_B=∮_λ▒〖dλ^k A_k 〗 (14)\r\nThe respective local form of the curvature has only two nonzero components:\r\nThe expression for the Berry phase (14) can be rewritten as a surface integral of the components of the local curvature form. Using Stokes formulae, we obtain the following expression\r\nΘ_B=1/2 ∬_S▒〖dλ^k×dλ^l F_kl (15)〗\r\nwhere S is a surface in R^3and F_kl=∂_k A_l-∂_l A_k are components of the local curvature form .\r\nBerrys phase for coherent state in SU(2) group for a spin 1/2 particle (qubit)\r\nFor construction coherent state in SU(2), we consider the reference state as〖(1,0)〗^T, the general form of coherent state in this group we obtain form the following formula (10):\r\n|ψ┤ ├ ┤⟩=e^(-iφS^z ) e^(-iθS^y ) |0┤ ├ ┤⟩=C_0 |0┤ ├ ┤⟩+C_1 |1┤ ├ ┤⟩ (16)\r\nThat\r\nC_0=〖cos(〗⁡〖θ/2〗)e^(-iφ) C_1=sin⁡〖(θ/2) (17)〗\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\n Farahmand, Heidarnezhad, Heidarnezhad, Fatemeh Heydari and Muminov 406\r\nWe calculate the Berry phase for a spin 1/2 particle in non-relativistic quantum mechanics. A coherent state for spin 1/2 particle is described by the following function [8]:\r\nψ=(■(〖cos(〗⁡〖θ/2〗)e^(-iφ)@sin⁡〖(θ/2)〗 )) (18)\r\nThis eigen function are normalized on unit,\r\n⟨ϕ│ϕ⟩=1 (19)\r\nThe corresponding solution of the Schrodinger equation is\r\nψ=e^iΘ ϕ (20)\r\nwhere the phase Θ satisfies. Component of the local connection formA_k=i⟨ϕ│∂_k ϕ⟩ for the eigenstate ϕ are easily calculated\r\nA_θ=i⟨ϕ│∂_θ ϕ⟩=(■(〖cos(〗⁡〖θ/2〗)e^(+iφ)&sin⁡〖(θ/2)〗 ))(■(-1/2sin⁡(θ/2)e^(-iφ)@1/2cos⁡(θ/2)))=0 \r\n\r\nA_φ=i⟨ϕ│∂_φ ϕ⟩=i(■(〖cos(〗⁡〖θ/2〗)e^(+iφ)&sin⁡〖(θ/2)〗 ))(■(-icos⁡(θ/2)e^(-iφ)@0))=〖cos〗^2 (θ/2)\r\n\r\nA_λ=0 (21)\r\n\r\nF_θφ=∂_θ A_φ-∂_φ A_θ=-sin⁡(θ/2) cos⁡(θ/2)=-1/2 sinθ=-F_φθ (22)\r\n\r\nNow we calculate the Berry phase for a closed curve in the parameter spaceλ=λ(t),\r\nΘ_B=∮_λ▒〖dλ^k A_k=〗 1/2 ∬_S▒〖dλ^k×dλ^l F_kl 〗=∬_S▒〖dθ×dφF_θφ=-1/2 ∬▒〖dθ×dφsinθ=〗〗-1/2 ∫▒〖(1-cosθ)〗 dφ=-1/2 Ω(λ) (23)\r\nWhere S is a surface in R^3with the boundary λ(t) and Ω(λ) is the solidangle of a surface S as it looks from the origin of the coordinate system. This result does not depend on how parameters depend on time.\r\nWe also calculate the Berry phase for a spin-1 particle in SU(2) in non relativistic quantum mechanics.\r\nA. Berrys phase for coherent state in SU(2) group for a spin 1 particle (qutrit)\r\nWe consider reference state as 〖(1,0,0)〗^Tfor a spin-1 particle (qutrit) in SU(3) in nonrelativistic quantum mechanics. Coherent state in real parameter in this group is in the following form [9]:\r\n\r\n|ψ┤ ├ ┤⟩=D^(1/2) (θ,φ) e^(-iγS^z ) e^(2igQ ̂^xy ) |0┤ ├ ┤⟩=C_0 |0┤ ├ ┤⟩+C_1 |1┤ ├ ┤⟩ 〖+C〗_2 |2┤ ├ ┤⟩ (24)\r\n\r\nD^(1/2) (θ,φ)=e^(-iφS^z ) e^(-iθS^y ) (25)\r\nQuadrupole moment is\r\n\r\nQ ̂^xy=1/4i (S^+ S^+-S^- S^- )=i/2 [■(0@0@-1 )■(0@0@0)├ ■(1@0@0)] (26)┤\r\nIf we expand exponential terms in coherent state, obtain coefficients:\r\nC_0=e^iφ (e^(-iγ) 〖(Sin〗^2 θ/2)Cosg+e^iγ 〖(Cos〗^2 θ/2)Sing)\r\nC_1=Sinθ/√2 (e^(-iγ) Cosg-e^iγ Sing)\r\nC_2=e^(-iφ) (e^(-iγ) 〖(Cos〗^2 θ/2)Cosg+e^iγ 〖(Sin〗^2 θ/2)Sing) (27)\r\nTwo angle, θ andφ , define the orientation of the classical spin vector.The angle γ is the rotation of the quadrupole moment about the spin vector. The parameter, g, defines change of the spin vector magnitude and that of the mquadrupole moment.\r\n\r\n\r\n Farahmand, Heidarnezhad, Heidarnezhad, Fatemeh Heydari and Muminov 407\r\nCoherent state for spin-1 in real parameter is in the following form (5):\r\nIf we go from SU(3) group to SU(2), we mustγ=0 ,g=0and in this condition we obtain equations of SU(2) group.\r\n\r\n(■(e^iφ (〖Sin〗^2 θ/2)@Sinθ/√2@e^(-iφ) (〖Cos〗^2 θ/2) )) (29)\r\n\r\nIf we consider solution of the Schrodinger equation similar to equation(16), then component of the local connection formF_kl=∂_k A_l-∂_l A_k for the eigen-state φ are easily calculated\r\nA_θ=i⟨ϕ│∂_θ ϕ⟩=0 ,A_λ=0 ,A_φ=Cosθ (30)\r\nAnd components of the local form of the curvature are\r\n\r\nF_θφ=∂_θ A_φ-∂_φ A_θ=-F_φθ=-Sinθ (31)\r\nNow we calculate the Berry phase for a closed curve in the parameter spaceλ=λ(t),\r\nΘ_B=∮_λ▒〖dλ^k A_k=〗 1/2 ∬_S▒〖dλ^k×dλ^l F_kl 〗=∬_S▒〖dθ×dφF_θφ=-∬▒〖dθ×dφsinθ=〗〗-∫▒〖(1-cosθ)〗 dφ=-Ω(λ) (32)\r\nWhere S is a surface in R^3with the boundary λ(t) and Ω(λ) is the solidangle of a surface S as it looks from the origin of the coordinate system.\r\n\r\nB. Berrys phase for coherent state in SU(2) group for a spin 3/2 particle (qudit)\r\n\r\nWe consider reference state as 〖(1,0,0,0)〗^Tfor a spin-3/2 particle (qudit) in SU(4) in non-relativistic quantum mechanics. Coherent state in real parameter in this group is in the following form [10,11]\r\n|ψ┤ ├ ┤⟩=D^1 (θ,φ,γ) e^(2igQ ̂^xy ) e^(-i〖βS〗^z ) e^(-ikF ̂^xyz ) |0┤ ├ ┤⟩=C_0 |0┤ ├ ┤⟩+C_1 |1┤ ├ ┤⟩ 〖+C〗_2 |2┤ ├ ┤⟩ 〖+C〗_3 |3┤ ├ ┤⟩ (33)\r\n\r\nwhere |0i is reference state and\r\nD^1 (θ,φ,γ)=e^(-iφS^z ) e^(-iθS^y ) e^(-iγS^z ) (34)\r\nis Wigner function. Quadrupole moment is\r\nQ ̂^xy=1/(4√3 i) (S^+ S^+-S^- S^- )=i/2 [├ ■(0 0 1 0@0 0 0 1@■(-1 0 0 0 @0 -1 0 0))] (35)┤\r\nOctupole moment is\r\nF ̂^xyz=1/6i (S^+ S^+ S^+-S^- S^- S^- )=1/i [├ ■(0 0 0 1@0 0 0 0@■( 0 0 0 0 @-1 0 0 0))] ┤ (36)\r\n\r\nIf we insert all above calculation in coherent state, obtain:\r\n\r\nC_0=〖A_1 e〗^(3/2 i(φ-γ-β) )-〖A_2 e〗^(i/2 (3φ+γ-3β) )-〖B_1 e〗^(i/2 (3φ-γ+3β) )+〖B_2 e〗^(3/2 i(φ+γ+β) )\r\nC_1=〖A_3 e〗^(3/2 i(φ-γ+β) )-〖A_4 e〗^(i/2 (3φ+γ-3β) )+〖B_3 e〗^(i/2 (φ-γ+3β) )-〖B_4 e〗^(i/2 (φ+3γ+3β) )\r\nC_2=〖〖B^\'〗_4 e〗^((-i)/2 (φ+3γ+3β) )-〖〖B^\'〗_4 e〗^(i/2 (φ-γ+3β) )+〖〖A^\'〗_4 e〗^(-i/2 (φ+γ-3β) )-〖〖A^\'〗_2 e〗^(-i/2 (φ-3γ-3β) )\r\nC_3=〖〖B^\'〗_1 e〗^(-3/2 i(φ+γ+β) )-〖〖B^\'〗_2 e〗^(-i/2 (3φ-γ+3β) )+〖〖A^\'〗_1 e〗^(-3/2 i(φ-γ-β) )-〖〖A^\'〗_2 e〗^(-i/2 (3φ+γ-3β) )\r\nA_1=sin^3⁡(θ/2) cos⁡g sin⁡k,A_1^\'=sin^3⁡(θ/2) cos⁡g cos⁡k\r\n\r\n\r\n Farahmand, Heidarnezhad, Heidarnezhad, Fatemeh Heydari and Muminov 408\r\n\r\nA_2=√3 sin⁡〖(θ/2) cos^2⁡(θ/2) 〗 sin⁡g sin⁡〖k ,〗 A_2^\'=√3 sin⁡〖(θ/2) cos^2⁡(θ/2) 〗 sin⁡g cos⁡k\r\n\r\nA_3=√3 sin^2⁡〖(θ/2) cos⁡(θ/2) 〗 cos⁡g sin⁡〖k 〗\r\nA_4=cos⁡(θ)⁡cos^2⁡(θ/2) sin⁡g sin⁡〖k ,〗 A_4^\'=cos⁡(θ)⁡cos^2⁡(θ/2) sin⁡g cos⁡k\r\n\r\nB_1=√3 sin^2⁡〖(θ/2) cos⁡(θ/2) 〗 sin⁡g cos⁡〖k ,〗 B_1^\'=√3 〖sin〗^2⁡〖(θ/2) cos⁡(θ/2) 〗 sin⁡g sin⁡k\r\n\r\nB_2=cos^3⁡(θ/2) cos⁡g cos⁡k,B_2^\'=cos^3⁡(θ/2) cos⁡g sin⁡k\r\nB_3=sin⁡(θ)⁡〖(2-3 sin^2⁡〖(θ/2))〗 〗 sin⁡g cos⁡〖k (37)〗\r\nB_4=√3 sin⁡〖(θ/2) cos^2⁡(θ/2) 〗 cos⁡g cos⁡〖k ,〗 B_4^\'=√3 sin⁡〖(θ/2) cos^2⁡(θ/2) 〗 cos⁡g sin⁡k\r\n\r\nIf we go from SU(4) group to SU(3), we must g = 0, β=0and in equations\r\nk → g in this condition we obtain equations of SU(3) group.\r\nIf we go from SU(4) group to SU(2), we must g = 0, β=0 \\,γ=0 ,k=0 in this condition we obtain equations of SU(2) group.\r\n(■(cos^3⁡(θ/2) e^(3/2 iφ)@√3 sin⁡〖(θ/2) cos^2⁡(θ/2) e^(i/2 φ) 〗@■(0@-sin^3⁡〖(θ/2) e^(-3/2 iφ) 〗 ))) (38)\r\nA_θ=i⟨ϕ│∂_θ ϕ⟩=-3/2 sin^3⁡〖(θ/2) cos^3⁡〖(θ/2)+3/2〗 cos^⁡(θ/2) 〗 sin^5⁡(θ/2) ,〖 A〗_λ=0 ,A_φ=3/2 (⁡cos^6⁡〖(θ/2)-sin^6⁡(θ/2))+3/2〗 sin^2⁡〖(θ/2) cos^4⁡(θ/2) 〗 (39)\r\nAnd components of the local form of the curvature are\r\n\r\nF_θφ=∂_θ A_φ-∂_φ A_θ=∂_θ A_φ=-F_φθ=3/2 sin^⁡〖(θ/2) cos^5⁡〖(θ/2)+9/2〗 cos^⁡(θ/2) 〗 sin^5⁡〖(θ/2)+〗 3/2 sin^⁡〖(θ/2) cos^3⁡(θ/2) 〗 (40)\r\n\r\nNow we calculate the Berry phase for a closed curve in the parameter space λ=λ(t),\r\nΘ_B=∮_λ▒〖dλ^k A_k=〗 1/2 ∬_S▒〖dλ^k×dλ^l F_kl 〗=∬_S▒〖dθ×dφF_θφ=∬▒〖dθ×dφ(〗〗 3/2 sin^⁡〖(θ/2) cos^5⁡〖(θ/2)+9/2〗 cos^⁡(θ/2) 〗 sin^5⁡〖(θ/2)+〗 3/2 sin^⁡〖(θ/2) cos^3⁡〖(θ/2))〗 〗….=∫▒〖(1/2 ⁡cos^6⁡〖(θ/2)-3/8 sin^4⁡(θ/2))〗 dφ〗 (41)\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\n Farahmand, Heidarnezhad, Heidarnezhad, Fatemeh Heydari and Muminov 409\r\nC. Berrys phase for coherent state in SU(2) group for a spin 2 particle (qudit)\r\nWe consider reference state as 〖(1,0,0,0,0)〗^Tfor a spin-2 particle (qutrit) in SU(5) in nonrelativistic quantum mechanics. Coherent state in real parameter in this group is in the following form:\r\n|ψ┤ ├ ┤⟩=D^(3/2) (θ,φ,γ) e^(2igQ ̂^xy ) e^(-i〖βS ̂〗^z ) e^(-ikO ̂^xyz ) e^(-i〖mS ̂〗^z ) e^(-i〖nX ̂〗^xyzl ) |0┤ ├ ┤⟩=C_0 |0┤ ├ ┤⟩+C_1 |1┤ ├ ┤⟩ 〖+C〗_2 |2┤ ├ ┤⟩ 〖+C〗_3 |3┤ ├ ┤⟩ 〖+C〗_4 |4┤ ├ ┤⟩ (42)\r\n\r\nWhere|0┤ ├ ┤⟩ is reference state and\r\nD^(3/2) (θ,φ,γ)=e^(-iφS^z ) e^(-iθS^y ) e^(-iγS^z ) (43)\r\n\r\nQuadrupole moment is\r\nQ ̂^xy=i/2 [├ ■(0 0 1 0 0 @■(0 0 0 1 0 @-1 0 0 0 1 @■(0 -1 0 0 0 @0 0 -1 0 0 )))] ┤ (44)\r\n\r\nOctupole moment is\r\nO ̂^xyz=1/12i (S^+ S^+ S^+-S^- S^- S^- )=1/i [├ ■(0 0 0 1 0 @■(0 0 0 0 1 @0 0 0 0 0 @■(-1 0 0 0 0 @0 -1 0 0 0 )))] ┤ (45)\r\nHexadecimalpole moment is\r\n\r\nX ̂^xyz=1/24i (S^+ S^+ S^+ S^+-S^- S^- S^- S^- )=1/i [├ ■(0 0 0 0 1 @■(0 0 0 0 0 @0 0 0 0 0 @■( 0 0 0 0 0 @-1 0 0 0 0 )))] ┤ (46)\r\nIf we expand exponential term in we obtain the following form:\r\n\r\nC_0=-e^2i(β+m) sinn(Ae^2i(φ-γ) f_5+〖Be〗^2i(φ+γ) f_1+〖Ce〗^2iφ f_3 )+cosne^(-2im) (e^(iβ\"\" ) 〖(cosge^i(2φ-γ) f〗_4+〖singe〗^i(2φ+γ) f_2)sink+e^(-2iβ) (〖Be〗^2i(φ-γ) f_5+Ae^2i(φ+γ) f_1-Ce^2iφ f_3)cosk) \r\nC_1=-e^2i(β+m) sinn(Ae^i(φ-2γ) f_4+〖Be〗^i(φ+2γ) f_6+〖Ce〗^iφ f_8 )+cosne^(-2im) (e^(iβ\"\" ) 〖(cosge^i(φ-γ) f〗_9+〖singe〗^i(φ+γ) f_7)sink+e^(-2iβ) (〖Be〗^i(φ-2γ) f_4+Ae^i(φ+2γ) f_6-Ce^iφ f_8)cosk\r\nC_2=-e^2i(β+m) sinn(Ae^(-2iγ) f_3+〖Be〗^2iγ f_3+Cf_10 )\r\n+cosne^(-2im) (e^(iβ\"\" ) 〖(cosge^(-iγ) f〗_8-sin〖ge^iγ f〗_8)sink\r\n+e^(-2iβ) (〖Be〗^2iγ f_3+Ae^(-2iγ) f_3-Cf_10)cosk)\r\nC_3=e^2i(β+m) sinn(Ae^(-i(φ+2γ) ) f_6+〖Be〗^i(-φ+2γ) f_4+〖Ce〗^(-iφ) f_8 )+cosne^(-2im) (e^(iβ\"\" ) 〖(cosge^(-i(φ+γ) ) f〗_7+〖singe〗^i(-φ+γ) f_9 )sink-e^(-2iβ) (〖Be〗^(-i(φ+2γ) ) f_6+Ae^i(-φ+2γ) f_4-Ce^(-iφ) f_8)cosk)\r\n\r\nC_4=-e^2i(β+m) sinn(Ae^(-2i(φ+γ) ) f_1+〖Be〗^2i(-φ+γ) f_5+〖Ce〗^(-2iφ) f_3 )+cosne^(-2im) (e^(iβ\"\" ) 〖(-cosge^(-i(2φ+γ) ) f〗_2-〖singe〗^i(-2φ+γ) f_4)sink+e^(-2iβ) (〖Be〗^(-2i(φ+γ) ) f_1+Ae^2i(-φ+γ) f_5-Ce^(-2iφ) f_3)cosk)\r\n\r\nA=1/2(1+cos⁡〖√2 g) ,〗 B=1/2(1-cos⁡〖√2 g) ,C=sin⁡〖√2 g〗/√2〗\r\n\r\nf_1=1-θ^2/2+〖5θ〗^4/48-(17θ^6)/1440+(13θ^8)/16128-(257θ^10)/7257600……\r\n \r\n Farahmand, Heidarnezhad, Heidarnezhad, Fatemeh Heydari and Muminov 410\r\n\r\nf_2=-θ+〖5θ〗^3/12-〖17θ〗^5/240+(13θ^7)/2016-(257θ^9)/725760 ……\r\nf_3=1/2 √(3/2) θ^2-θ^4/(2√6)+θ^6/(15√6)-θ^8/(210√6)+θ^10/(4725√6)……\r\nf_4=-θ^3/4+θ^5/16-θ^7/160+(17θ^9)/48384- ……\r\nf_5=θ^4/16-θ^6/96+θ^8/1280-(17θ^10)/483840+ ……\r\n\r\nf_6=θ-〖5θ〗^3/12+(17θ^5)/240-〖13θ〗^7/2016+(257θ^9)/7257760- ……\r\n \r\nf_7=1-〖5θ〗^3/4+(17θ^5)/48-〖13θ〗^6/288+(257θ^8)/80640-(41θ^10)/290304 ……\r\nf_8=-√(3/2) θ+√(2/3) θ^3-1/5 √(2/3) θ^5-2/105 √(2/3) θ^7-1/945 √(2/3) θ^9 ……\r\n\r\nf_9=〖3θ〗^2/4-〖5θ〗^4/16+(7θ^6)/160-(17θ^8)/5376+(341θ^10)/2419200 ……\r\nf_10=1-〖3θ〗^2/2+θ^4/2-θ^6/15+θ^8/210-θ^10/4725 …… (47)\r\n\r\nIf we go from SU(5) group to SU(2), we must β=0,g=0\\,γ=0,k=0,m=0 ,n=0 in this condition we obtain equations of SU(2) group.\r\n(■(1/2(f_5+f_1)e^2iφ@1/2(f_4+f_6)e^iφ@■(f_3@-1/2(f_6+f_4)e^(-iφ)@1/2(f_1+f_5)e^(-2iφ) ))) (48)\r\nA_θ=i⟨ϕ│∂_θ ϕ⟩=1/4 f_5 ∂_θ f_5+1/4 f_5 ∂_θ f_1+1/4 f_4 ∂_θ f_5+1/4 f_1 ∂_θ f_1 ,〖 A〗_λ=0 ,〖 A〗_φ=0 (49)\r\nAnd components of the local form of the curvature are\r\n\r\nF_θφ=∂_θ A_φ-∂_φ A_θ=-F_φθ=0 (50)\r\n\r\nNow we calculate the Berry phase for a closed curve in the parameter spaceλ=λ(t),\r\nΘ_B=∮_λ▒〖dλ^k A_k=〗 1/2 ∬_S▒〖dλ^k×dλ^l F_kl 〗=∬_S▒〖dθ×dφF_θφ=〗 0 (51)\r\n \r\nDISCUSSION\r\nGeometric phases are important in quantum physics and are now central to fault tolerant quantum computation. We have presented a detailed analysis of geometrical phase that can arise within general representations of coherent states in real parameterization in SU(2). As coherent state in SU(3) group with γ=0,g=0 convert to coherent state in SU(2). \r\nAs coherent state in SU(4) group with γ=0,g=0,γ=0 ,k=0convert to coherent state in SU(2), As coherent state in SU(5) group with γ=0,g=0,γ=0 ,k=0,m=0,n=0convert to coherent state in SU(2), Berry phase also change in similar method. We can continues this method to obtain Berry phase in SU(N) group, where N ≥ 3. We can also obtain Berry phase from complex variable base ket.\r\n','Yadollah Farahmand, Zabialah Heidarnezhad, Fatemeh Heidarnezhad,\r\nFatemeh Heydari and Kh. Kh Muminov (2014). Coherent States in SU(2), SU(3), SU(4), SU(5) of Spin Systems and Calculate the Berry phase for Qubit, Qutrit, Qudit with spin – 1/2,1,3/2,2 particle in SU(2) in Quantum Mechanics. Biological Forum – An International Journal 6(2): 404-411.\r\n '),(4598,'120','The effect of Aloe vera on growth and sex hormone of the fish Aequidens rivulatu','Milad Norouzi and Masoud Farrokhrouz','68 MILAD NOROUZI AND MASOUD FARROKHROUZ.pdf','',1,'For considering the effect of Aloe vera on growth performance and sex hormones in juvenile fishes of Aequidens rivulatus this research has been done during April to June in 2014. After a weak of compatibility with cultivation condition 360 juvenile fishes were distributed for 8 weeks and randomly in 10 aquariums with density of 30 fishes in each section by using three nutrition including business nutrition having 1% Aloe vera per kilogram food (first treatment), business nutrition having 1.5% Aloe vera per kilogram food (treatment 2) and nutrition of 2% Aloe vera per kilogram food (treatment 3) with three repeats (totally random design. Significant difference in final weight, especial growth coefficient, food ration conversion, hasn’t been observed between experimental groups (P>0.01) and testosterone and estradiol hormones showed distinct difference (p>0.01). Totally regarding the result of this research it seems that adding plant to nutrition of juvenile fishes will be useful at growth and sex hormones.','Aloe vera, Aequidens rivulatus, growth, sex hormones','Regarding the result of this research and previous studies it can be said that using additive of Aloe vera at green terver fish nutrition showed efficiency on growth of fishes (1.5 treatments). Increase of estradiol hormone at the end of a period is more than beginning of a period and testosterone hormone is lower and this subject can help changing gender of fishes with more studies. Therefore this result helps increase of economic profitability at business growth of fishes.','There are almost 1539 species of ornamental fishes in the world(Champan et al., 2007) that annually the degree of global trade of ornamental fishes are more than some billion dollars (Andrews et al., 2006). Green taylor fish with scientific name of Aequidens rivulatus is from Soklideh family that its main habitat is south America that is an aquarium beautiful and sensitive species. At 22-24 centigrade degree and ph 7-8 it has proper growth condition. This species is damaging and sensitive with change of environmental conditions.\r\nSuccessful growth of fishes depends on accessibility to proper food for feeding to be able to supply health and growth for new born and at the steps of being infant (Grrri et al., 2000). On the other hand in growing fishes the main problem is supplying proper food with high quality that is accepted easily by fish and digested (Kim et al., 1996). Regarding the importance of nutrition in growing system of ornamental fishes in this research this subject has been considered that in this direction proper food can cause much success in this field. Natural plant products have various performance such as anti-tension function, anti-bacterial, causing appetite and stimulation of immune system (Citaracu et al., 2002). The anti-microbial activity of many plant extract has already been used in fishes and it has shown that these materials have high care power (Sodagar and Haji Beglou, 2011) regarding these points plant extract can be used as an stimulator of growth and immunity at decreasing food ratio conversion and death of fishes and finally reduce production cost. Using food additive in fish growth is one of usual methods for achieving final weight increase, improving nutrition efficiency or resistance against diseases under growth condition (Cho et al., 2012). In this direction, various types of additives in foods of aquatics has been studied for improving efficiencies of fishes that can be mentioned as below. Plant products such as pharmaceutical plants (Kim et al., 1998; Logambal et al., 2000; Jian and Wu 2003; Yin et al., 2006, 2009; Divyagnaneswari et al., 2007; Ardo et al., 2008) green tea (Cho et al, 2006, 2007) Aloe vera (Kim et al., 1999, Farrokhi et al., 2012).\r\nPlant products through induction of the degree of transcription increases growth as the degree of RNA will be increased and therefore the degree of total amino acid will be increased and finally the degree of protein production in cells increases (Citarasu, 2010). Developing additives of aquatic food is also one of attractive cases that is paid attention by many researchers and cultivators of fishes.\r\nAloe vera that is famous to “desert tulip” in desert region, belongs to tropical Africa. Aloe vera has anti-oxidant in the form of vitamins. Generally Aloe vera gel is full of vitamins A, B1, B2, B6, B12, C, E. Minerals existed in Aloe vera gel consist calcium, sodium, Feros, Potassium, chloride, manganese, copper and zinc. Aloe vera gel has 92 different enzymes like oxidase, amylase, and catalase and so on that does various activities\r\nFarrokhi et al., (2012) have considered the effects of ration having the plant (Melissa officinalis) and Aloe vera on efficiency of growth, survival, corpse ingredients, blood indices and oxidation of fat of rainbow trout fish but the degree of survival in these treatments has meaningfully increased.\r\nThe goal of this study is considering the effect of nutrition having Aloe vera extract on growth factors, some blood indices and resistance of Aequidens rivulatus. \r\n\r\nMATERIALS AND METHODS\r\nStudying and implementing this research has been done during April to June at the center of culturing ornamental fishes in Lahijan city in Guilan province. 420 juvenile fishes after biometric(measuring weight and length) and determining Biomass with average weight of 8 gr were chosen and was done for 8 weeks based on 3%-5% of body weight in 3 turns (9 am at noon, 3pm) (Sodagar et al., 2004, Mohseni et al., 2006). The experiment is done in 6 treatments and a control that each treatment has 3 repeats as below:\r\nThe way of making and preparing ration.\r\nFirstly Aloe vera powder is mixed with biomar food by oil plant.\r\n \r\nCalculating some of growth indices\r\nFor assessing the degree of growth and determining biomass of each aquarium, after each step of biometric, the fallowing growth indices were calculated (Ali et al., 2011, Hung et al., 1993, 1997, Merrifield et al., 2011).\r\nPercent of body weight increase (BWI %):\r\n% BWI = (Bwf – Bwi)/Bwi × 100 (Hung et al ; 1989)\r\nBWI = average primary weight in each tank. BWF = average final weight in each tank \r\nFood conversion ratio (FCR): (Ronyai et al.,1990) FCR = F/(wt-wo)\r\nF = the amount of food consumed by fish. Wo = average primary biomass (gr).\r\nWt = average final biomass. (gr-fat coefficient (Lutes & Hung; 1987) Cf = (Bw/ti3) ×100\r\nBw = average final mean of body based on gr. TI = average final total length based on centimeter.\r\nSampling of fishes blood at the end of a period from each repeat from 8 fishes was done (f male and 4 female fish in each repeat) was chosen randomly and taking blood from each heparinized caudal vein vessel was done by 2ml syringe. During the process of taking blood clove anesthetic matter was used. Measuring hormone indices of blood serums (steroid, testosterone and strodiol hormones) was done through RIA method.\r\nFor data analysis from normality Spss 16 software was used. Analysis was done by using SAS 9.0I. Charts were designed by Excel 2007. All comparisons of means was recorded by using L.S.D. Hormones (testosterone and estradiol) was done as plots in times Weight and length was done as plot in time.\r\nRESULT\r\nConsidering growth efficiency\r\nBased on data of table there has been observed meaningful difference between different factors such as final weight, length, food conversion ratio, especial growth coefficient among different experimental groups (P>0.01). The result of average weight showed that treatment 1.5 percent was more than 1 and 2 percent but there isn’t meaningful difference between treatment 1 and 2 percent.\r\nResult of hormonal studies\r\nThe result of hormonal studies showed that in treatment 1.5 percent the degree of estradiol hormone was more than 2 percent and in treatment 2 percent it was more than 1 percent. \r\nHowever in the degree of testosterone hormone statistical difference hasn’t been observe d between treatments. The result of comparative studies of hormones mean during a period denotes that the degree of sex hormones during a period has changed and there has been observed meaningful statistical difference between the beginning and end of a period. Estradiol hormone at the end of a period was more than beginning of a period but testosterone hormone was less.\r\nDISCUSSION \r\nEnhancing growth affected by plant hormones depends on factors such as species of fish, nutrition-physiological situation of fish, proper amount or concentration, constituting ingredient of plant, management and cultivating condition (Barreto et al., 2008; Nasir and Grashorn, 2010; Farahi et al., 2011; Cho, 2012). Based on obtained data there has been observed meaningful difference between different growth factors such as final weight, length, food conversion ratio, especial growth coefficient between different groups(P>0.01). Findings of Abdi et al., (2010) on Oscar fish, Ghodsi and Sodagar and Guz et al., (2011) on Guppy fish, Mesalhy et al., (2008), Ashraf, Goda (2008) on Tilapia fish and Kasiri et al., (2011) on angel fish of sweet water all confirm positive and meaningful effect of plant additive on indices of growth in these fishes that is coordinated with the result of this research. Aloe vera has anti-oxidant in the form of vitamins. Generally Aloe vera gel is full of Vitamins A, B1, B2 B6, B12, C, E. Minerals available in Aloe vera gel includes calcium, sodium, ferrous, potassium, chloride, manganese, copper and zinc. Aloe vera gel has 92 different enzymes like oxidase, amylase, and catalase and so on that helps body at absorbing main nutrition and also purifies them. Aloe vera has 20 amino acids and can provide all necessary amino acids of the body.\r\nThis result isn’t compatible with the result of Farrokhi et al., (2011) during study of the effect of adding Melissa officinalis and aloe vera at ration of rainbow trout and Cho (2012) during study of adding onion powder at ration of Paralichthys olivaceus . They claimed in their study that adding these plant additives hasn’t had meaningful effect on the degree of growth of fishes at experimental groups. However Farrokhi et al., (2010) during a study claimed that adding 10, 20, 30 gr/kg garlic to ratio of rainbow trout increases growth indices significantly in this fish than control group. Result of hormonal considerations showed that in treatment 1.5 percent the degree of estradiol hormone was more than 2 percent and in treatment 2 percent it was more than 1 percent but at the degree of testosterone significant statistical difference hasn’t been observed. The result of comparative consideration of hormones mean during a period denotes that the degree of sex hormones during a period has changed and significant statistical difference isn’t seen at the beginning and end of a period. Estradiol hormone at the end of a period is more than beginning of a period but testosterone hormone was lower.\r\nPositive effect of phytoestrogen on fishes caused doing many research about its probable advantages at culturing fish.\r\nConsidering effects of different food levels from Aloe vera latex on reproduction attributes (steps of gonadal development, reproduction, size of ovule (length and diameter), gonad histology) at tilapia fishes of O. niloticus that were fed up for 60 days was done. The results denote positive effect in female fishes and the effect of concussive in testicles of male fishes. Using Ginseng (mixture of business phytoestrogen) as a replacing method for production of the whole material of Sharptooth catfish was done. Potential of improvement of fish growth by natural and esteroid care was done on various species of fishes such as Cyprinus carpio ,Oncorhynchus myksis, Oreochromis niloticus. O. aureus and Perca flavescens Malson 1988, Shiila and Pandian 1995) this result is according to current results. Jegede (2012) considered the effect of Aloe vera on male fish of tilapia for changing sexuality this result is another reason on hormone-like performance of Aloe vera.\r\n','Milad Norouzi and Masoud Farrokhrouz (2014). The effect of Aloe vera on growth and sex hormone of the fish Aequidens rivulatu. Biological Forum – An International Journal 6(2): 412-416.'),(4599,'120','Evaluation diameter at breast height (D.B.H.) and height growth of Populus deltoides in alluvial and forest brown soils in Guilan province','Narjes Keiaee, Vahid Hemmati and Gholamreza Vaghar','69 NARJES KEIAEE, VAHID HEMMATI AND GHOLAMREZA VAGHAR.pdf','',1,'Study the effect of soil properties on diameter at breast height (D.B.H.) and height growth of Populus deltoides in two region in east of Guilan province (Gamble and Safrabasteh). Therefore, for the detection and measurement of soil physical and chemical properties in each region, three excavated soil profile, description and samples were transported to the laboratory. To measure the D.B.H. and height growth per unit area in each of these areas, the quantitative characteristics of Populus deltoides one hundred percent in the three transects were measured 33 x 20 meters. The results showed that all parameters measured quantitatively by fir trees on alluvial soils, brown forest soils was higher than the 95 percent confidence level are significantly different. The results showed that all parameters measured quantitatively by popular trees on alluvial soils, brown forest soils were higher than the 95 percent confidence level are significantly different. A total of alluvial soils, being rich in organic matter, water supply conditions are favorable, lighter texture and permeability with better ventilation can be used well for popular stands. And lack of proper growth Populus stands can be considered a heavy texture and a high percentage of clay.','Populus deltoids, Soil, Alluvial, Forest brown, diameter at breast height (D.B.H.) and height growth\r\n \r\n','Given the favorable conditions of soil permeability and aeration in Safrabasteh than Gamble because of the lower apparent and particle density of soil, clay content of soil and the higher porosity percent and silt content of soil that there is a significant difference, annual growth of diameter at breast height (D.B.H.) and height in Safrabasteh were more than to Gamble. Habibi kaseb in 1371 stated that soil texture and structure is able to play an important role in the nutrition and growth of plants, because well-balanced structure and texture makes suitable pores that on the one hand, provides air required for root respiration and activity of soil microorganisms and on the other hand, provides water supply adequate moisture for plant growth. Salehi et al., (2012) also founded that poplar stands on lighter textured soils; better soil permeability and aeration are in better condition and have better growth. Tufekcioglu et al., in 2005 lack of proper growth poplar stands of their study, due to heavy texture and a high percentage of clay and as a result of poor soil aeration and drainage. As was observed in the results, chemical factors such as the percentage of soil active nitrogen in Safrabasteh is more than Gamble region which will have a significant impact on the growth of poplar trees. The C/N amount in Safrabasteh region is much less than the Gamble, this reflects the high content of nitrogen in the soil in Safrabasteh region. Habibi (1992) acknowledged the role of soil active nitrogen in leaves that low soil nitrogen causes yellow leaves before time and developed rooting trees to search nitrogen in soils which reduces the growth of the plant. Tufekcioglu (2003) in a study on poplar forestation stated that some soil properties such as texture, pH, nitrogen, phosphorus, etc. Affect the growth of poplar stands, Soil texture is one of the most important factors of growth and root development, which plays an important role in the absorption of minerals. The results of this study indicate that texture type of soils in Safrabasteh & Gamble are alluvial and forest brown, respectively. For this reason, growth in the Safrabasteh region was better than the Gamble due to alluvial and deep (120 cm) of soil. Habibi Kaseb in 1992 stated that alluvial soils because they are rich in minerals and in the water supply are favorable and can be used as well for poplar plantation. The results of this study showed that soil type and Gamble Safrabasteh respectively are alluvial and brown forest. Habibi in 1992 stated that the alluvial soils are rich in minerals and are suitable for the water supply and can be used as well to popular plantation. Plantations of poplar for high efficiency should be at least one meter deep alluvial soils with silt or Silty clay texture in the dry season can be used to provide water to the plant. Be more careful in choosing the right location for planting and proper performance of popular in relation to soil properties in the plains of northern Iran.','Generally, Populus trees has a fast growing, deciduous and high economic value, they are 30 different species and provenance, as well as some cultivars. Throughout the temperate regions of the Northern Hemisphere, some species of the genus to large forest provenances and others can be found in restricted provenances near rivers and valleys wet (Ghasemi, 1996). Poplars are very dependent on water content and soil nutrient, and the importance of soil and its characteristics in poplar plantation as in most studies, is called as one of the main factors for the success or failure of poplar plantation (Hedaiati, 2000). In order to maximize the rate of growth of poplar, understanding the relationship between the growth rate of the trees and the soil\'s ability to supply needed nutrients and water are very important (Kelly and Ericsson, 2003). Due to the lower level and the exploitation of forests and increase in timber imports in recent decades, in order to meet the needs of wood, Forests organization has moved widespread culture of poplar especially in the Northern Province. Researchers have tried to raise the production of fast-growing trees such as poplar and many researchers have been done on the effect of soil on the growth poplar plantation. \r\nTufekoghlu et al., (2003) in a study on poplar afforestation stated that some soil properties such as texture, pH, nitrogen, phosphorus, etc. affect the growth of poplar stands. Kia daliri et al., (2004), in a study on the effect of soil type (Grey-brown Podzolic with organic matter, forest brown, grey-brown Podzolic and Pseudogley) on qualitative and quantitative characteristics of Populus X. euramericana (Dode) guinier concluded that grey-brown Podzolic with organic matter and forest brown are the most suitable soil types for cultivation and development of poplar in the region. Krinard and Johnson (1984), in a study near the Mississippi River on Silty-loamy soil concluded that the planting of Populus deltoids after 20 years, the highest growth rate of average volume obtained with 57/21 meters per hectare per year. Salehi et al (1391), in a study examined the effects of soil and groundwater physical property on the quantity and quality of poplar plantation in Gisum region of Guilan and concluded that poplar stands on soils with lighter textured, lower groundwater, and better aeration and infiltration there are in better condition and have better growth. Currently, P. euramerican and P. deltoides species are cultivated in large areas of Guilan and Mazandaran provinces (Asadi, 2001). \r\nAlthough Guilan with more than 6000 hectares area poplar plantation, it is the eighth province country (Bahri, 1371). But, due to a serious need wood-related industries in the province and government policies emphasis to reduce the exploitation of forests, more than ever felt the importance of planting trees with early return species such as poplar. Basic knowledge of the quantitative and qualitative results of poplar plantation the last three decades in different contexts of Soil in Guilan and north of the country is inevitable. However, this study deals the effect of soil type on diameter at breast height (D.B.H.) and height growth of Populus deltoids in two flat region of East Guilan province.\r\nMATERIALS AND METHODS\r\nRegions of study located in Series 2 Gamble between 49°59\' to 50°7\' east longitude, 37°5\' to 37°12\' north latitude and poplar Research Station Safrabasteh with 49°57\' north longitude, 37°19\' north latitude. \r\nThe regions are minimum and maximum height of 50 to 250 meters above sea level, the average rainfall is 1186 mm and the mean annual temperature is 17.5°C. For this research, the two poplar plantation areas were selected by a distance of 4 x 4 meters and due to the appearance similarity of physiographic conditions of transects (Slope, aspect, elevation) a total of six soil profiles was drilled. After digging profiles, some soil physical and chemical properties such as soil texture, apparent and particle specific gravity, porosity percent, pH, EC, CEC, O.C, N, P and K of soil were measured. In each of these pieces, a complete inventory of poplar trees in three transects 33 x 20 cm (total height, D.B.H.) was performed, that a total of 209 poplar trees in the above area were measured. The annual D.B.H. and height growth of trees with given the masses poplar plantation age was calculated. The calculations and statistical analysis of the characteristics of soil types using the software SPSS17 was done.\r\nRESULT\r\nThe soil profiles of the study showed that the series 2 popular stands in soil Gamble has four distinct layers with depth (0-20 (A), 20-40 (Bt), 40-80 (Bct) and 80-120 cm (C)) with Forest Brown soil and in Safrabasteh has two layers with an approximate depth of the 0-30 (A) and 30-120 cm (Bc) with Alluvial soil respectively. Soil texture type of Gamble area were Loam, Clay Loam Silty, Clay Loam and Clay with depth increase and soil Texture type of Safrabasteh area were Sandy Clay Loam and sandy clay with depth increase. Apparent specific density (g/cm3) was 1.44 in Gamble area and 1.33 in Safrabasteh area. Particle specific density (g/cm3) was 2.27 in Gamble area and 2.21 in Safrabasteh area. The results showed that the percentage of clay and silt, saturated moisture content and bulk density of the region is significantly different than the 99% confidence level rate of clay, silt, soil Safrabasteh the first layer, respectively, 17.20, 53.5 and 26.33 percent, respectively Gamble in 33.2, 39.5 and 27.5 percent. Based on the results of the silt and clay content in more Gamble was greater than in Safrabasteh. The results of the soil chemical properties in the study region show that pH, soil nitrogen content and the ratio of carbon to nitrogen are significantly different which can be seen in Table 1.\r\nThe results showed that D.B.H. growth rates between the two stands of poplar have a significantly different at the 95% confidence level and the annual height growth is no significant difference. Average annual D.B.H. growth and Average annual height growth in Safrabasteh with alluvial soils (2.41 cm/ha/year and 192 cm/ha/year respectively) was more than Gamble with forest brown soils (1.68 cm/ha/year and 185 cm/ha/year respectively) (Table 2).\r\n','Narjes Keiaee, Vahid Hemmati and Gholamreza Vaghar (2014). Evaluation diameter at breast height (D.B.H.) and height growth of Populus deltoides in alluvial and forest brown soils in Guilan province. Biological Forum – An International Journal 6(2): 417-420.'),(4600,'120','Review of Efficacy of Stabilization Ponds and Feasibility of Using Effluents of Wastewater Treatment of Ahvaz\'s Slaughterhouse for Irrigation and Disposal in Surface Waters in the Region','Sadegh Ghasemi, Roya Mafi Gholami and Mohsen Yazdanian','71 SADEGH GHASEMI , ROYA MAFI GHOLAMI AND MOHSEN YAZDANIAN.pdf','',1,'A waste stabilization pond (WSP) is a hole in which household wastewater and other types of sewage are stored for long periods of time so that organic materials existing in them are deposited, decomposed and stabilized through exposure to light and heat and growth of algae and microorganisms. In WSPs, deposition and stabilization processes take place simultaneously. Such features make WSPs suitable for treating industrial sewage such as wastewaters produced by slaughterhouses, dairy plants and canned food factories. The present study sampled wastewaters collected and treated by the treatment plant of a slaughterhouse in Ahvaz and compared the relevant measured parameters with the standards set by the Environmental Protection Organization of Iran in order to determine the efficiency of WSPs in treating wastewaters and making them usable for irrigation purposes. The results indicate that Turbidity, BOD5, PH, COD, TDS, and TSS values for the treated wastewaters stood at >1000 NTU, 912 mg/lit, 8.78, 1520 mg/lit, 1052 mg/lit, and 2180 mg/lit respectively. A comparison of these values with the standard values set by the Environmental Protection Organization of Iran revealed a significant difference. This finding shows that the wastewater treatment plant under study had a poor productivity and performance and that wastewater treated by that facility could not be used for irrigation or pumped into surface waters. Therefore, environmental management programs and solutions have been suggested in order to help control and reduce the adverse effects of treated wastewater. ','WSP, environmental standards, wastewater reuse ','A. Evaluation of Pond\'s Efficiency\r\nAccording to the results written in valid references, the process of waste stabilization ponds has the capability to omit 70% to 80% of BOD5 of samples that haven\'t been purified. And this capability shall also be increased in the purified samples up to 90%. Reduction rate of TSS in waste stabilization ponds is possible because of the presence of algae in exiting wastewater in rates less than BOD5; nevertheless.\r\n\r\n This process can easily reduce the number of bacteria up to 99.9999%, number of viruses up to 99.99% and protozoa cysts and parasites up to 100% [13]. \r\nComparing means of percentage of omission of contaminants in waste stabilization ponds of Ahvaz\'s slaughterhouse based on the results written in Table 5 with the acceptable values of contaminants in this process indicates that efficiencies of the available ponds are low.\r\nB. Usability of Wastewater in Irrigation\r\nComparing the rate of contaminants in exiting wastewater and standards of Protection Organization of Iran associated with using wastewater in agricultural irrigation shows that in most cases the rates of remained contaminants in wastewater is multiple times more than the permitted limit. According to this, using this wastewater for irrigation is in conflict with the standards of Protection Organization of Iran. \r\nC. Ability of Disposing Wastewater in Surface Waters\r\nComparing the rate of contaminants in the exiting wastewater with standards of disposing wastewater in surface waters of Environmental Protection Organization of Iran shows that in most cases the rate of remained contaminants in the wastewater is multiple \r\n\r\ntimes more than the permitted limit. According to this, disposal of exiting wastewater with this compound in river is in conflict with the principles of country\'s Environmental protection and leads to pollution of river\'s water.\r\nD. Explanation of Problems and Strategies\r\nGiven the reviews that have been done, Ahvaz\'s slaughterhouse has not considered the environmental actions and this slaughterhouse\'s exiting wastewater makes the load of environmental pollution twice more. Low efficiency and increase of the volume of the exiting wastewater are the most important problems of this treatment plant. In most of the slaughterhouses of Iran, due to lack of use of proper technology, preliminary separation of blood for producing side products such as blood powder does not take place; therefore, blood enters the sewage system and increase the organic load and degree of sewage pollution which will consequently increase the side costs (environmental effects and costs of water treatment). Since establishing efficient systems of sewage treatment is an unavoidable necessity and needs a considerable investment, regulatory organizations can make establishment of industrial units a priority by considering the national and regional conditions and in the form of development programming model and obligate contaminant units to comply with the environmental standards. Also developing and implementing proper encouraging and punishing policies, development of industrial units, privatization and changing the role of government from outsourcer to policy maker and supervisor, will be of crucial help to the improvement of environmental situation of the region. The significant point is that of the necessity and value of environmental issues became clear for industry owners, they will certainly become guardians of the ecosystems and we could hope that the policy of “sustainable development” replaces development with each cost and method.\r\nThe provided treatment system shall response to environmental standards and requirements and shall be suitable for the capacity of slaughterhouse, climatic conditions, personnel\'s skill and implementation costs. One of the most suitable methods for treating slaughterhouses\' sewage is simultaneous use of physical and biological treatment. \r\nGiven the studies which have been done, the most important program of controlling and reducing wastewater contaminants of slaughterhouses is announced as follows:\r\n(i) Using chlorination method by intelligent systems instead of manual method for reducing microbial load.\r\n(ii) Using anaerobic sequencing batch reactor (ASBR) in treating slaughterhouse\' wastewater.\r\n(iii) Using new chemical treatment systems.\r\n(iv) Reconstructing dirt stuck systems, secondary treatment, fat retention and filtration of the slaughterhouse.\r\n(v) Using nanotechnologies in treating sewage of poultry Industry.\r\n(vi) Using ozone in order to reduce the microbial load of corpses and increase the durability of the produced products.\r\n(vii) Using sewage treatment systems of activated sludge in the slaughterhouse and using the resulting water for agricultural uses.\r\n','The pollution caused by the activities of slaughterhouses units forms a huge part of the whole environmental pollutions and plays a very important role in creating environmental crises. Disorders caused by the wastewaters of these units change the status of aquatic ecosystems and have a negative effect on the variety of species [1]. This matter makes treatment of these sewages essential. Slaughterhouses are usually established far from the residential regions. Strategic management is not considered serious in wastewater treatment systems of slaughterhouses and does not have a proper efficiency. Therefore, slaughterhouses are considered as sources that pollute water and soil2. If concentration of pollutants does not reduce to the standard limit, they can put the public health in danger by spreading pathogens and contamination of groundwater through wells absorbing sewage (as one of the common methods of disposal of slaughterhouses\' sewage). It is obvious that applying proper management can provide such conditions to reduce the degree of wastewater pollution and make sewage reuse, particularly for irrigation uses, possible [17]. \r\nBased on the theory of sustainable development, protecting environment is considered an unavoidable necessity for current and future generations and that is why the crisis of environmental pollutions has turned to a universal issue and challenge today [3,15]. In this respect, being in compliance with the environment is considered as a precondition of activity in huge levels4 and measuring values of spread of environmental pollutants of productive and servicing units will have a special importance. Waste stabilization ponds (WSP) are a hole in which household wastewater and other types of sewage are stored for long periods of time so that organic materials existing in them are deposited, decomposed and stabilized through exposure to light and heat and growth of algae and microorganisms. In WSPs, deposition and stabilization processes take place simultaneously. Such features make WSPs suitable for treating industrial sewage such as wastewaters produced by slaughterhouses, dairy plants and canned food factories [5-16].\r\nSince natural processes has a basic role in sewage treatment in ponds and by considering the fact that the speed of natural treatment processes is low, a long retention time is needed for sewage treatment that this retention time is variable between few days to few months depending on weather conditions. Stabilization ponds are among cheap methods of sewage treatment and they can easily be used for treating a wide spectrum of urban and industrial sewages in regions in which there is suitable weather conditions and sufficient cheap lands. Studies that have been done in some countries indicate that waste stabilization ponds can be used as a proper pattern for treating rich sewages such as slaughterhouse sewages [14]. But comprehensive information of the performance of these units in the country is not available. According to the present study which sampled wastewaters collected and treated by the treatment plant of a slaughterhouse in Ahvaz and compared the relevant measured parameters with the standards set by the Environmental Protection Organization of Iran in order to determine the efficiency of WSPs in treating wastewaters and making them usable for irrigation purposes.\r\nAmong researches in this field that have been done before, feasibility of using effluents of wastewater treatment of industrial slaughterhouse for agricultural purposes in Qom which has been done by Alireza Najimi et al., in which parameters pH, COD, BOD5, input and output sewage have been reviewed that all parameters are in the standard limitation of Environmental Protection Organization for agricultural purposes [6]. Among other researches, we can refer to the review of environmental pollutants of wastewater of slaughterhouse units that have been studies in the \"Parandak Khazar\" slaughterhouse of Som\'e Sara, which was done by Ms Saeyin Daneshvar et al. in this research the parameters COD, TDS, BOD5, ammonium, coliform of digestive and fat and oil of wastewater treatment plants were higher than standard7. In a research which was done with the title of \"review of efficacy of stabilization ponds in sewage treatment plans of Kermanshah\'s slaughterhouse\" by Mr. Mehdi farzad Kia, the indexes of sewage treatment such as pH, TSS, BOD5, COD all coliform bacteria and fecal coliform bacteria in exiting wastewater was tested and the obtained results showed that the exiting wastewater of this treatment plant with the available quality is not capable of being used in agricultural irrigation or disposal to surface waters and it has a significant statistical difference with the standards of Environmental Protection Organization of Iran8. And in another research with the title of \"review of efficiency of sewage treatment systems of Kerman\'s slaughterhouses\" which was done by Ms. Leyla Javarani et al, 500 tests were done on the collected samples and the parameters pH, TSS, BOD5, COD were higher than the permitted limit by comparing them with standard values [9]. And ultimately, in a research entitles as qualitative and quantitative review of livestock and poultry slaughterhouses sewage in Lorestan province, which was done by Ms. Elham Borna et al, by measuring the factors Oil, pH, COD, BOD5 and comparing them with the results of standards of country\'s Environmental Protection Organization, it showed that exiting sewage of Lorestan\'s livestock slaughterhouses, except for industrial slaughterhouse of Khoram Abad, are more than the permitted limit and are not suitable for disposal to river and agricultural lands [10].\r\nMATERIALS AND METHOD\r\nA. Studied Region\r\nAhvaz\'s slaughterhouse with the daily slaughter capacity of 96 cows and Buffaloes, 1162 sheep and goats in a land with an approximate area of 8 hectares, and with an infrastructure of about 8 thousands square meters in 15th kilometer of Ahvaz - Khorram Shahr road is active in the area of comprehensive urban project. This slaughterhouse lacks blood sampling unit and blood entered in sewage and raw sewage approximately about 11000 cubic meters enters sewage treatment plants.\r\nType of pool treatment is stabilization and it does not perform desirably and ultimately, the wastewater caused by treatment is disposed in Karoun River. In addition, this slaughterhouse lacks sewage treatment system and it only has a corpse-burning furnace for destructing the recorded corpses and other wastes caused by the slaughter are disposed to the slaughterhouse\'s surrounding area. \r\nB. Sampling\r\nThis research has been done on the input sewage and output wastewater of sewage treatment of Ahvaz\'s slaughterhouse. In order to review the efficiency of this treatment plant, something was arranged to remove the data from input and output sewage and it was set for the samples in cool conditions to be quickly transferred for the associated tests to the environment laboratory of the company \"Ferdos Teb Shafa\". In this research the parameters Turbidity, pH, BOD5 (Biochemical Oxygen Demand), COD (Chemical Oxygen Demand), TDS (total dissolved substances) and TSS (total suspended solids) were reviewed in the samples and the feature of the method of the done tests are shown in Table 1. \r\n \r\nC. Results\r\nIn order to review the efficiency o this treatment plant, the parameters, which were tested in exiting wastewater, were compared with the environmental standards and criteria of Environmental Protection Organization of Iran for disposal in surface waters or reuse of wastewaters [11]. \r\n \r\n\r\nAnalysis of the values of physiochemical contaminants of raw sewage of Ahvaz\'s slaughterhouse shows that the load of pollution of this raw wastewater of this treatment plant is high. Comparing the physiochemical parameters of the wastewater of Ahvaz\'s slaughterhouse with the environmental standards shows that the rate of TSS, COD, BOD5 and Turbidity is higher than standard and it worrisome. \r\nHigh COD and BOD5 show that dissolved oxygen of the exiting wastewater that enters surface waters is very low and this factor causes occurrence of the utriphication phenomenon; on the other hand, high rate of suspended and dissolved solid substances lead to too much and abnormal increase of the salts in water and soil in the region which will be problematic [12]. \r\n \r\n\r\n','Sadegh Ghasemi, Roya Mafi Gholami and Mohsen Yazdanian (2014). Review of Efficacy of Stabilization Ponds and Feasibility of Using Effluents of Wastewater Treatment of Ahvaz\'s Slaughterhouse for Irrigation and Disposal in Surface Waters in the Region. Biological Forum – An International Journal 6(2): 428-435. '),(4602,'120','The effect of soil type on basal area and volume growth of Populus deltoides in east of Guilan province','Keyoma Shaffiei and Vahid Hemmati','73 KEYOMA SHAFFIEI AND VAHID HEMMATI.pdf','',1,'This study deals the effect of soil properties on basal area and volume growth of Populus deltoids in two region of East Guilan province in IRAN. Therefore, to identify of soil type and measure the physical and chemical properties of soil in each region, three soil profiles were drilled and described and samples were transported to the laboratory. To measure the basal area and volume growth per unit area in each of these regions, the quantitative characteristics of Populus deltoids was fully measured in three transects 33x20 meters. The results showed that all quantitative parameters measured of poplars was higher in alluvial soils than forestbrown soils and were significantly different at the 95% confidence level. Due to the low rate of apparent and particle specific gravity, clay and C/N percent in the alluvial soil of the forestbrown soils and the higher porosity, silt and active nitrogen percent of the soil in the alluvial soils of the forest brown soils, basal area and volume growth of Populus deltoids were higher in the alluvial soils. In total, alluvial soils, being rich in organic matter, favorable water supply conditions, lighter texture and higher permeability with better aeration can well be used for poplar plantation and lack of proper growth poplar stands can be considered a heavy texture and a high percentage of clay.','Populus deltoids, alluvial soils, forestbrown soils, basal area and volume growth','Given the favorable conditions of soil permeability and aeration in Safrabasteh than Gamble\r\nbecause of the lower apparent and particle density of soil, clay content of soil and the higher porosity percent and silt content of soil that there is a significant difference, annual growth of basal area and volume in Safrabasteh were more than to Gamble. Habibi Kaseb in 1371 stated that soil texture and structure is able to play an important role in the nutrition and growth of plants, because well-balanced structure and texture makes suitable pores that on the one hand, provides air required for root respiration and activity of soil microorganisms and on the other hand, provides water supply adequate moisture for plant growth. Salehi et al., (2012) also founded that poplar stands on lighter textured soils; better soil permeability and aeration are in better condition and have better growth. Tufekcioglu et al in 2005 lack of proper growth poplar stands of their study, due to heavy texture and a high percentage of clay and as a result of poor soil aeration and drainage. As was observed in the results, chemical factors such as the percentage of soil active nitrogen in Safrabasteh is more than Gamble region which will have a significant impact on the growth of poplar trees. The C/N amount in Safrabasteh region is much less than the Gamble, this reflects the high content of nitrogen in the soil in Safrabasteh region .Habibi (1992) acknowledged the role of soil active nitrogen in leaves that low soil nitrogen causes yellow leaves before time and developed rooting trees to search nitrogen in soils which reduces the growth of the plant. Tufekcioglu (2003) in a study on poplar forestation stated that some soil properties such as texture, pH, nitrogen, phosphorus, etc. \r\nAffect the growth of poplar stands. Soil texture is one of the most important factors of growth and root development, which plays an important role in the absorption of minerals. The results of this study indicate that texture type of soils in Safrabasteh & Gamble are alluvial and forestbrown, respectively. For this reason, growth in the Safrabasteh region was better than the Gamble due to alluvial and deep (120 cm) of soil. Habibi kaseb in 1371 stated that alluvial soils because they are rich in minerals and in the water supply are favorable and can be used as well for poplar plantation. For poplar plantation with high efficiency should be used to alluvial soils with a thick layer of Silt or Silty Clay to a depth of at least one meter which could raise water by capillarity put the plant, in the dry season. Finally, you can spend not so much time but look closely at some of the work, at the appropriate location in relation to soil properties, act to good yields poplar in the northern plains. That based on these results it is important\r\n','Generally, Populus trees has a fast growing, deciduous and high economic value, they are 30 different species and provenance, as well as some cultivars. Throughout the temperate regions of the Northern Hemisphere, some species of the genus to large forest provenances and others can be found in restricted provenances near rivers and valleys wet (Ghasemi, 1996). Poplars are very dependent on water content and soil nutrient, and the importance of soil and its characteristics in poplar plantation as in most studies, is called as one of the main factors for the success or failure of poplar plantation (Hedaiati, 2000). In order to maximize the rate of growth of poplar, understanding the relationship between the growth rate of the trees and the soil\'s ability to supply needed nutrients and water are very important (Kelly and Ericsson, 2003). Due to the lower level and the exploitation of forests and increase in timber imports in recent decades, in order to meet the needs of wood, Forests organization has moved widespread culture of poplar especially in the Northern Province. Researchers have tried to raise the production of fast-growing trees such as poplar and many researches have been done on the effect of soil on the growth poplar plantation. Tufekoghlu et al., (2003) in a study on poplar afforestation stated that some soil properties such as texture, pH, nitrogen, phosphorus, etc. affect the growth of poplar stands. Kia daliri et al (2004), in a study on the effect of soil type (grey-brown Podzolic with organic matter, forestbrown, grey-brown Podzolic and Pseudogley) on qualitative and quantitative characteristics of Populus X. euramericana (Dode) guinier concluded that grey-brown Podzolic with organic matter and forestbrown are the most suitable soil types for cultivation and development of poplar in the region. Krinard and Johnson (1984), in a study near the Mississippi River on Silty-loamy soil concluded that the planting of Populus deltoids after 20 years, the highest growth rate of average volume obtained with 57.21 meters per hectare per year. Salehi et al (1391), in a study examined the effects of soil and groundwater physical property on the quantity and quality of poplar plantation in Gisum region of Guilan and concluded that poplar stands on soils with lighter textured, lower groundwater, and better aeration and infiltration there are in better condition and have better growth. Currently, P.euramerican and P.deltoides species are cultivated in large areas of Guilan and Mazandaran provinces (Asadi, 1380). Although Guilan with more than 6000 hectares area poplar plantation, it is the eighth province country (Bahri, 1371). But, due to a serious need wood-related industries in the province and government policies emphasis to reduce the exploitation of forests, more than ever felt the importance of planting trees with early return species such as poplar. Basic knowledge of the quantitative and qualitative results of poplar plantation the last three decades in different contexts of Soil in Guilan and north of the country is inevitable. \r\n \r\n Shaffiei and Hemmati 452\r\n \r\nHowever, this study deals the effect of soil type on basal area and volume growth of Populus deltoids in two flat region of East Guilan.\r\nMATERIALS AND METHODS\r\n Regions of study located in Series 2 Gamble between 49°59\' to 50°7\' east longitude, 37°5\' to 37°12\' north latitude and poplar Research Station Safrabasteh with 49°57\' north longitude, 37°19\' north latitude. The regions are minimum and maximum height of 50 to 250 meters above sea level, the average rainfall is 1186 mm and the mean annual temperature is 17.5°C. For this research, the two poplar plantation areas were selected by a distance of 4x4 meters and due to the appearance similarity of physiographic conditions of transects (Slope, aspect, elevation) a total of six soil profiles was drilled. After digging profiles, some soil physical and chemical properties such as soil texture, apparent and particle specific gravity, porosity percent, pH, EC, CEC, O.C, N, P and K of soil were measured. In each of these pieces, a complete inventory of poplar trees in three transects 33x20 cm was performed, that a total of 209 poplar trees in the above area were measured. The annual basal area and volume growth of trees with given the masses poplar plantation age was calculated. The calculations and statistical analysis of the characteristics of soil types using the software SPSS17 was done.\r\nRESULT\r\nThe soil profiles results in poplar plantation regions show that in Series 2 Gamble soil consists of four distinct layer of soil to a depth of (20-0 first layer, the second layer 40-20, third layer 80-40 and fourth layer \r\n\r\n120 to 80 cm) and in Safrabasteh two distinct layer at a depth of approximately 30-0 first layer and the second layer is 120-30 cm. Characteristics of the soil in the study area can be seen in Table 1.\r\nThe results showed that clay and silt percent, saturated moisture content and particle density of the two regions together are significantly different at 99% confidence level (Fig. 2) that amount of clay, silt and sand layers of soil in the Safrabasteh area were 17/20, 5/53 and 33/26 percent and Gamble area equal to 2/33, 5/39 and 5/27 percent, respectively. \r\nAccording to results, the amount of clay in Gamble is greater and amount of silt in Safrabasteh is greater than Gamble regions. The results of the soil chemical properties in the study region show that pH, soil nitrogen content and the ratio of carbon to nitrogen are significantly different which can be seen in Table 2.\r\nThe results showed that basal area and volume growth rates between the two stands of poplar have a significantly different at the 95% confidence level and the annual height growth is no significant difference. \r\nAverage annual basal area growth and Average annual volume growth in Safrabasteh with alluvial soils (1.258 m2/ha/year and 18.7 m3/ha/year respectively) was more than Gamble with forest brown soils (0.074 m2/ha/year and 16.7 m3/ha/year respectively) (Table 3).\r\n \r\n','Keyoma Shaffiei and Vahid Hemmati (2014). The effect of soil type on basal area and volume growth of Populus deltoides in east of Guilan province. Biological Forum – An International Journal 6(2): 451-454.'),(4603,'120','Relationship of Cardiorespiratory Fitness with Spirometrical markers in Asthma patients','Rasoul Mohammadi, Nasibeh Rezaei Afrapoli and Shahram Khanzadeh Holaso','75 RASOUL MOHAMMADI-2.pdf','',1,'The prevalence of asthma or allergic diseases has noticeably increased worldwide. To analyze whether cardiorespiratory fitness is associated with Spirometrical markers such as forced vital capacity (FVC), forced expiratory volume in 1 s (FEV1) and FEV1/FVC in asthma patients, VO2max a determinant of cardiorespiratory function and respiratory function test were performed by twenty eight sedentary adult men with chronic asthma (39 ± 3 years of old) that participated in study by accessible samples. Asthma patients were non-smoker and non-trained without a history of other chronic disease. Respiratory function was measured by spirometry. Relationship between VO2max with other variables was determined by Pearson correlation method. Based on statistical analysis, we observed that VO2max was positively correlated with FVC (p = 0.013, r = 0.42), FEV1 (p = 0.005, r = 0.52) and FEVI/FVC (p = 0.003, r = 0.54) in studied patient. In conclusion, it is suggest that increased aerobic capacity by exercise training can be respiratory function in asthma patients.','Spirometry, Aerobic capacity, Respiratory diseases','The prevalence of asthma or allergic diseases has noticeably increased worldwide. To analyze whether cardiorespiratory fitness is associated with Spirometrical markers such as forced vital capacity (FVC), forced expiratory volume in 1 s (FEV1) and FEV1/FVC in asthma patients, VO2max a determinant of cardiorespiratory function and respiratory function test were performed by twenty eight sedentary adult men with chronic asthma (39 ± 3 years of old) that participated in study by accessible samples. Asthma patients were non-smoker and non-trained without a history of other chronic disease. Respiratory function was measured by spirometry. Relationship between VO2max with other variables was determined by Pearson correlation method. Based on statistical analysis, we observed that VO2max was positively correlated with FVC (p = 0.013, r = 0.42), FEV1 (p = 0.005, r = 0.52) and FEVI/FVC (p = 0.003, r = 0.54) in studied patient. In conclusion, it is suggest that increased aerobic capacity by exercise training can be respiratory function in asthma patients.','Asthma is a chronic inflammatory respiratory pathways disease in which, the sensitivity and resistance of the respiratory pathways reduce air intake into the lungs [1,2]. Increased smooth muscle of the respiratory pathways in response to certain inflammatory mediators is responsible for the narrowing of the pathways and symptoms such as cough, chest tightness, and wheezing [3]. Some researchers regard that as a health-threatening and the most prevalent chronic disease in children as its prevalence is increasing in most developed and developing countries [4]. \r\nResistance of the respiratory pathways in the patients is associated with reduced lung volumes such as maximum vital capacity and MVV, and the reduced spirometric indicators of the lung function compared to the healthy individuals [5]. According to most studies, spirometric parameters, such as forced vital capacity (FVC), forced expiratory volume in 1 s (FEV1), and FEV1/FVC in these patients was lower compared to the healthy individuals [6]. On the other hand, patients have lower levels of cardiorespiratory fitness as some studies have revealed that asthma patients had lower levels of VO2max, as an indicator of cardiorespiratory fitness, compared to the healthy individuals [7]. However, few studies reported no difference between these indicators in healthy subjects and patients with asthma [8]. VO2max, or maximal oxygen uptake, is one factor that can determine an athlete\'s capacity to perform sustained exercise and is linked to aerobic endurance. \r\nVO2max refers to the maximum amount of oxygen that an individual can utilize during intense or maximal exercise. \r\nMost previous studies have somehow attributed the reduced cardiorespiratory fitness to the inflammatory profile in the chronic diseases and regarded the reduction as a reflection of increased chronic inflammatory cytokines in chronic diseases [9, 10]. However, it is thought that the reduction of the respiratory volumes and the spirometric indicators of lung function have also a significant contribution to the reduced cardiorespiratory fitness in respiratory diseases, especially asthma. Some studies have not observed a relationship between spirometric indicators and cardiorespiratory fitness in the patients [7, 11]. Considering the conflicting evidence, the present study aimed at determining the relationship between the cardiorespiratory fitness with some respiratory parameters indicative of pulmonary function in a group of men with chronic asthma.\r\nMETHOD AND SUBJECTS\r\nBased mentioned above, in present study, we aimed to determine the relationship between VO2max as cardiorespiratory fitness determinant and indicator markers of respiratory function in asthma patients. To achieve this outcome, a totally 28 sedentary adult men with asthma participated in this study by accessible samples. \r\n \r\n \r\n Mohammadi, Afrapoli and Holaso 461\r\n \r\nAll participants gave their informed written consent before participation in accordance with the ethical guidelines set by Islamic Azad University. The diagnosis of asthma and respiratory function was made by spirometry test. We used three parameters to assess cardiorespiratory functions: FEV1, FVC and FEV1/FVC%. Subjects were asked to refrain from tea, coffee, chocolates and caffeinated soft-drinks on 4 hours before Spirometry. Subjects were instructed to take maximum inspiration and blow into the pre-vent pneumotach as rapidly, forcefully and completely as possible for a minimum of 6 seconds, followed by full and rapid inspiration to complete the flow volume loop. The best of the three trials was considered for data analysis. \r\nInclusion criteria and Anthropometry: A detailed history and physical examination of each subject was carried out. Inclusion criteria for study group were determined as existing asthma for at least three years. The subject did not previously exercise or had any previous participation in weight loss programs (at least during the last three months), or had history of cardiovascular diseases, diabetes or any other medical problem. \r\nStanding height of the barefoot subjects was measured to the nearest 0.1 cm with the use of a wall-mounted stadiometer. Weight was measured to the nearest 100 g using digital scales. Percent body fat was determined using body composition monitor (OMRON, Finland). Body mass index (BMI) was calculated by dividing body mass (kg) by height in meters squared (m2).\r\nCardiorespiratory Fitness: Cardiorespiratory ﬁtness was assessed as VO2max (mL kg-1 min-1) was measured using a bicycle ergometer in a stepwise fashion according to YMCA instrucment. This protocol was performed in 5 continues stage without rest between stages. Each stage lasted 3 minute [12].\r\nData analysis: All data were tested for normal distribution by the Kolmogorov-Smirnov test. Data were analyzed by computer using the Statistical Package for Social Sciences (SPSS) for Windows, version 15.0. The association between VO2max and spirometric parameters were assessed using Pearson’s correlation coefficient. A P-value of < 0.05 was considered to be statistically significant.\r\nRESULTS\r\nRelationship of VO2max as a determinant of cardiorespiratory fitness in asthma patients was determined in this study. Anthropometric and physiological characteristics of the study participants are described in Table 1. All values are reported as mean and standard deviation. \r\n \r\n\r\nDISCUSSION\r\nA direct significant relationship was observed between cardiorespiratory fitness and each spirometric indicator in asthmatic men. In other words, in the studied asthmatic patients, increase in each of the spirometric indicators, such as FVC, FEV1, and FEV1/FVC, was associated with increased VO2max levels, as a psychological indicator of cardiorespiratory fitness. These findings indicated that the static markers of lung function directly affected the aerobic capacity in asthmatic patients. It has been reported previously by the majority of studies that the level of cardiorespiratory fitness was reduced in the presence of asthma and other respiratory diseases [7]. On the other hand, lower levels of spirometric indicators, as the determinants of lung function, have been frequently observed in these patients [5]. However, few studies have also pointed to the lack of difference between asthmatic patients and healthy individuals [13].\r\nToday, it is known that exercise not only improves respiratory symptoms of the asthmatic patients, but also increases their physical fitness. [14, 15]. Increased respiratory function due to aerobic exercises in other populations, including adults obese men, has already been reported by some researchers [16]. These training programs enhance the mechanical efficiency of the respiratory muscles, and thereby, improve respiratory indicators [17]. However, changes in pulmonary spirometric indicators are different among different studies. Some studies have indicated that upper and lower exercises significantly improve FEV1 in patients with mild to moderate asthma [18, 19]. But in some other studies, improvements in aerobic fitness and reduced breathlessness was not associated with changes in FEV1 [20]. However, in a recent study, 10 weeks of aerobic exercise did not lead to a change in spirometric indicators in patients with asthma, and a combination of aerobic exercise and resistance training was associated with improvements [21]. Some studies have also shown that aerobic exercise combined with breathing exercises improved lung ventilation, respiratory muscle strength, and muscle coordination, especially the inspiratory muscle, and corrected the breathing patterns. This was shown to be associated with reduced bronchospasm and respiratory tracts obstruction, and consequently relieved dyspnea, which is a common symptom of asthma [22].\r\nIn addition to the therapeutic use of exercise in respiratory diseases, such as asthma, some researchers have emphasized on supplement consumption as a therapeutic method. For example, a study showed that the consumption of vitamin D leads to a reduction in respiratory infections, prevention of asthma attacks, and resistance to steroids, reduced osteoporosis, and control of asthma associated with increased IL-10 [23]. \r\nIn another study, vitamin D consumption along with exercise led to a significant increase in peak expiratory flow and maximal voluntary ventilation and 75% forced expiratory flow in the experimental group compared to the control group [6].\r\nThe reduced cardiorespiratory fitness in patients cannot be attributed only to physiological limitations caused by asthma, and sedentary life style and not participating in regular training programs, especially aerobic exercises, also contributes to the lower levels of VO2max in these patients compared to the healthy controls. Some clinical studies have also suggested the presence of chronic inflammation in the pathogenesis of chronic diseases [24]. They also have supported the role of inflammation in cardiorespiratory fitness levels. They have indicated the relationship between VO2max, as an indicator of cardiorespiratory fitness, with some inflammatory cytokines, such as IL-1ß, IL-6 and TNF-α [10]. These findings somehow support the effect of inflammatory cytokines on cardiorespiratory fitness in chronic diseases.\r\n','Rasoul Mohammadi, Nasibeh Rezaei Afrapoli and Shahram Khanzadeh Holaso (2014). Relationship of Cardiorespiratory Fitness with Spirometrical markers in Asthma patients. Biological Forum – An International Journal 6(2): 460-464.'),(4604,'120','Regular aerobic training in absence diet can not affect cardiovascular risk factors','Shahgholiabasi Rose, Imanipour Vahid and Seyed Hoseini Mohammad Ali','78 SHAHGHOLIABASI ROSE-5.pdf','',1,'Obesity is a major health problem in developed or developing country and is associated with metabolic disorders. The objective of this investigation was to evaluate the effect of regular aerobic training on cardiovascular risk factors in obese subjects. For this purpose, twenty six males aged 36 ± 5 year and body weight 100 ± 14 kg were assigned to participate in study and divided into exercise or control groups by randomly. All subjects was non-trained and non-smoker. Pre and post-training of fasting levels of total serum cholesterol (TC), triglycerides (TG), high-density lipoprotein cholesterol (HDL), low-density lipoprotein cholesterol (LDL) and anthropometrical markers were measured in two groups. Student’s paired ‘t’ test was applied to compare the pre and post training values. Based on statistical data, triglyceride concentration (p = 0.019) was decreased significantly with aerobic training program whereas concentrations of TC (p = 0.91), HDL cholesterol (p = 0.61), and LDL cholesterol (p = 0.36) did not change. A significant decrease was also observed in TG/HDL by exercise training (p = 0.019). All variables did not change in control group. Despite improved TG, it seems that regular aerobic program in absence diet control is not associated with all anthropometrical risk factor even in presence weight reduction.','Obesity, Cardiovascular risk factors, Exercise training','Obesity is a major health problem in developed or developing country and is associated with metabolic disorders. The objective of this investigation was to evaluate the effect of regular aerobic training on cardiovascular risk factors in obese subjects. For this purpose, twenty six males aged 36 ± 5 year and body weight 100 ± 14 kg were assigned to participate in study and divided into exercise or control groups by randomly. All subjects was non-trained and non-smoker. Pre and post-training of fasting levels of total serum cholesterol (TC), triglycerides (TG), high-density lipoprotein cholesterol (HDL), low-density lipoprotein cholesterol (LDL) and anthropometrical markers were measured in two groups. Student’s paired ‘t’ test was applied to compare the pre and post training values. Based on statistical data, triglyceride concentration (p = 0.019) was decreased significantly with aerobic training program whereas concentrations of TC (p = 0.91), HDL cholesterol (p = 0.61), and LDL cholesterol (p = 0.36) did not change. A significant decrease was also observed in TG/HDL by exercise training (p = 0.019). All variables did not change in control group. Despite improved TG, it seems that regular aerobic program in absence diet control is not associated with all anthropometrical risk factor even in presence weight reduction. ','The growing trend toward mechanical life, the uncontrolled use of nutritious and high calorie foodstuff especially fatty foods and genetic traits and heredity, together with a sedentary lifestyle and no sporting activities, have increased the propensity to positive energy balance in most healthy or sick populations both in developed and in developing countries. Growing trends in incidence of obesity, rising body fat percentage, increasing incidence of some chronic diseases such as type 2 diabetes, hypertension, and various types of cancer, are always observed as consequences of obesity. The World Health Organization refers to the rapid increase in the prevalence of obesity as an epidemic and calls obesity and its complications one of the major world health problems [1]. \r\nThe increased prevalence of high body fat percentage and of obesity-related risk factors are accompanied by prevalence of cardiovascular diseases and type 2 diabetes [2, 3]. Scientific sources have confirmed the increased risk for cardiovascular diseases in healthy or sick obese populations compared to people with normal weight [4,5], and have pointed to increased levels of total cholesterol (TC), triglycerides ( TG), and low density lipoproteins (LDL) and also to reduced high density lipoproteins (HDL) in obese people compared to people with normal weight [5]. Nevertheless, increased levels of body fat, especially visceral abdominal fat, raise the propensity to cardiovascular diseases because they increase risk factors for such diseases. Therefore, developing suitable strategies such as diet corrections and other internal and external interventions with the purpose of controlling and improving risk factors for cardiovascular diseases, especially in obese populations, has become the focus of attention for researchers in health sciences and welfare. Physical activity and regular training programs have been introduced as a correcting agent of risk factors for obesity such as LDL, HDL, TC, and TG and as an effective treatment method for improving inflammation and for controlling risk factors for cardiovascular diseases. In this relation, researchers have reported that regular anti-inflammatory exercise results in reduced levels of inflammatory factors and improved lipid profile indices (HDL, TC, TG, and LDL) [6]. Moreover, in another study, 3-and 6-month intensive aerobic endurance exercise led to significant increases in HDL and reductions in TG and TC in cardiovascular patients [7]. However, some researchers reported in a number of recent studies that these indices (HDL, LDL, TC, and TG) did not significantly change after a 12-week sports exercise [8]. Therefore, considering the contradictory existing evidence, this study was conducted with the purpose of determining the effects of a relatively long-term aerobic training program on the levels of risk factors for cardiovascular diseases in non-sporting obese men.\r\nMETHOD AND SUBJECTS\r\nIn this study, the effect of regular training program on cardiovascular risk factors was investigated in obese men. Twenty six non-trained healthy obese men aged 36 ± 5 yrs, BMI 32 ± 3 kg/m2 were matched according to bodyweight and BMI were enrolled to participate in this study. The subjects selected into exercise (n=13) or control (n=13) groups. The subject of exercise group were completed an aerobic training program for three months and control subjects were instructed to maintain their habitual activities. The subjects were given an oral and written description of the study and the possible risks and discomfort involved before giving their voluntary oral and written content to participate.\r\nA. Anthropometric measures: Each subject’s anthropometrical markers were measured by the same researcher. Height (Ht) and weight (Wt) were measured twice to ±0.2 cm and to ±0.2 kg, respectively, with subjects being barefoot and lightly dressed; the averages of these measurements were recorded. BMI was calculated by dividing body mass (kg) by height in meters squared (m2). Waist-hip ratio (WHR) was calculated. The abdominal circumference was measured to the nearest 0.1 cm, using a non-extendable flexible tape applied above the iliac crest and parallel to the ground; with the subject standing erect with abdomen relaxed, arms along the body, and feet together. Hip circumference was measured at the maximum circumference between the iliac crest and the crotch while the participant was standing and was recorded to the nearest 0.1 cm. Percentage of body fat was estimated by bioelectrical impedance method (Omron Body Fat Analyzer, Finland). Each of these measurements was conducted two times and the average was reported.\r\nB. Inclusion and exclusion criteria: Obesity was defined as BMI and body fat (%). Participants were included if they had not been involved in regular physical activity in the previous 6 months. None of the subjects used drugs or therapies for obesity, and none had a past history of disease or injury that would prevent daily exercise. The exclusion criteria were as follows: a history of acute or chronic respiratory infections, neuromuscular disease, and cardiopulmonary disease. Furthermore patients with overt diabetic were also excluded from the study. In addition, exclusion criteria included inability to exercise and supplementations that alter carbohydrate-fat metabolism.\r\nC. Blood analysis: Pre training of metabolic markers were measured in all subjects of two groups and repeated 48 hours after lasted session of exercise program. All subjects were asked to attend hematology lab after an overnight fast. All blood samples were taken in the morning after an overnight fast between 8:00 and 9:00 a.m. After sampling in ETDA- or serum-tubes, blood was immediately chilled on ice, centrifuged in order to measure metabolic variables. Fasting blood total cholesterol, triglycerides, HDL and LDL cholesterol were measured enzymatically using commercially available kits (Pars Azmun Co. Tehran, Iran).\r\nD.Training protocol: The exercise program involved 1 h of exercise training, three times per week for 12 weeks. Each exercise session was supervised by an exercise physiologist or one of the study physicians. Each exercise test started by warm up, then main exercise and cool up at the end. The main part of each exercise sessions was performed in running at moderate intensity (60-75% HRmax; increasing 5% each 3 weeks) for 25-40 minutes (increasing 5 minutes each 3 weeks). The last training session with low intensity was allowed to be performed 48 hours before blood samples were taken. \r\nE. Statistical analyses: Normal distribution of data was analyzed by the Kolmogorov-Smirnov normality test. Statistical analysis was performed with the SPSS software version 15.0. Baseline characteristics between two groups were compared by using independent t-tests. Student’s t-tests for paired samples were performed to determine significance of changes in variables by exercise training intervention in exercise group as well as control subjects. Signiﬁcance was accepted at P < 0.05.\r\nRESULTS AND DISCUSSION\r\nRegular training program lasted 3 months and cardiovascular risk factors were compared between pre and post training program. Baseline and post training anthropometrical markers and cardiovascular risk of two groups are shown in Table 1. Data were expressed as individual values or the mean ± SD.\r\nAt baseline, there were no differences in the age, body weight and other anthropometrical indexes between the two groups. No significant differences were also observed in cardiovascular risk factors between two groups at baseline.\r\nBased on data of paired T test, Serum HDL cholesterol did not change by exercise program when compared with pre test (p = 0.61). In addition, there were no significant changes in TC (p = 0.912) and LDL cholesterol (p = 0.36) by exercise training. Triglyceride concentration was decreased 26% with exercise training (p = 0.019, Fig. 1). Exercise program results in significant decrease in TG/HDL compared to pretest (p = 0.019, Fig. 2). All anthropometrical markers decrease significantly by exercise program in exercise group (p < 0.05). \r\nAll variables did not change in control subjects (p ≥ 0.05). \r\nAlthough TC, LDL, and HDL levels did not change in response to a 3-month aerobic exercise program, serum TG levels significantly declined. In other words, three sessions of aerobic exercise per week for the duration of 3 months significantly reduced TG levels in obese men compared to their levels before the exercise program. Nevertheless, lack of changes in the levels of other variables such as HDL, even with weight loss resulting from the exercise program, is somewhat contentious. On the other hand, recent studies reported risk factors for cardiovascular diseases did not change in response to exercise training [9, 10, 11]. Some researchers have reported that exercise training is sometimes accompanied by slight changes, and in most cases is not accompanied by any changes, in blood HDL levels [12, 13, 14]. \r\n\r\nSome recent studies have also reported that levels of HDL and of other lipid profile indices do not change in response to exercise training [15]. \r\nMolecular mechanisms responsible for changes in other risk factors for cardiovascular diseases such as TC have not yet been clearly defined either. Although it is generally assumed that sports exercise is accompanied by lower blood cholesterol, this hypothesis does not always hold and, as observed in some studies, exercise training does not necessarily reduce blood cholesterol [16]. However, some research has pointed out that levels of risk factors for cardiovascular diseases improve when the exercise program is accompanied by significant reduction in body weight [17, 18]. Nevertheless, in this research, despite a significant reduction in weight and in body fat percentage following the training program for obese people, levels of the mentioned risk factors remained unchanged, which contradicts the mentioned hypothesis. \r\nThe considerable improvement in HDL in response to long-term training programs for obese populations suffering from obesity-related diseases was already reported in some studies. These studies pointed to significant increases in HDL levels following training programs [7, 19]. However, contrary to the findings in these studies, serum HDL levels did not change in a recent study on patients with type 2 diabetes [20]. In that study, although the researchers somehow attributed the lack of changes in HDL levels to the small number of studied subjects, their findings showed that the TG/HDL and TC/HDL ratios, that are other important factors indicating cardiovascular health, significantly decreased in response to the training exercise [20]. These researchers also mentioned that reductions in both TG/HDL and TC/HDL somehow supported the opinion that the cardiovascular risk profile decreased in response to training programs for diabetic subjects because scientific sources pointed to increased incidence of cardiovascular diseases when the ratios of triglycerides or bad cholesterol to HDL increased. In this study also, although HDL levels did not significantly change in response to aerobic exercise, the findings show that the TG to HDL ratio (TG/HDL) significantly declined, which is clinically noteworthy. Despite the lack of changes in other risk factors, the reduction in the ratio of risk factors for cardiovascular diseases to HDL may have its roots in reduced body weight. A recent study confirms this because it found a positive and significant correlation between BMI and TG/HDL after the training program [20]. On the other hand, researchers have pointed out that blood cholesterol will decline if sports exercise is accompanied by corrected diets [16]. Therefore, the lack of changes in risk factors for cardiovascular diseases in this study, even when body weight declined, may be attributed to the fact that diets were not controlled during the training program.\r\n','Shahgholiabasi Rose, Imanipour Vahid and Seyed Hoseini Mohammad Ali (2014). Regular aerobic training in absence diet can not affect cardiovascular risk factors. Biological Forum – An International Journal 6(2): 475-479.'),(4605,'120','Moderate exercise test is not associated with acute or recovery response of serum leptin in obese individuals','Mohammadi Rasoul, Sokhanguei Yahya and Edrisi Masoomeh','80 MOHAMMADI RASOUL-7.pdf','',1,'Accumulating evidence suggests that leptin plays an important role in the obesity and metabolic syndrome, although the molecular mechanisms for this are less understood. This study aimed to determine the acute and recovery response of serum leptin to a moderate exercise test in adult obese men. For this purpose, fifteen sedentary adult obese men aged 35-43 year and body mass index (BMI) 30-34 kg/m2 were completed a moderate exercise test involved 45 min run on smooth surface without slope at 70 % of maximal heart rate. Blood samples were collected prior to exercise, at the end of exercise, and at 60 min recovery. Given normal distribution of the data, which was analyzed by -Smirnov test, subsequent analysis was performed by Student’s t-test or repeated measures ANOVA No significant difference found in serum lepton between 3 samples. On the other hand, exercise test was not associated with acute or recovery response in serum leptin in studied subjects. Based on this data, it seems that one moderate exercise test can not affect serum leptin for short time recovery in obese individuals. Further studies are necessary to elucidate the significance of acute exercise on peptide mediators in obese or related diseases.','Leptin, Obesity, Exercise test, Acute response','Accumulating evidence suggests that leptin plays an important role in the obesity and metabolic syndrome, although the molecular mechanisms for this are less understood. This study aimed to determine the acute and recovery response of serum leptin to a moderate exercise test in adult obese men. For this purpose, fifteen sedentary adult obese men aged 35-43 year and body mass index (BMI) 30-34 kg/m2 were completed a moderate exercise test involved 45 min run on smooth surface without slope at 70 % of maximal heart rate. Blood samples were collected prior to exercise, at the end of exercise, and at 60 min recovery. Given normal distribution of the data, which was analyzed by -Smirnov test, subsequent analysis was performed by Student’s t-test or repeated measures ANOVA No significant difference found in serum lepton between 3 samples. On the other hand, exercise test was not associated with acute or recovery response in serum leptin in studied subjects. Based on this data, it seems that one moderate exercise test can not affect serum leptin for short time recovery in obese individuals. Further studies are necessary to elucidate the significance of acute exercise on peptide mediators in obese or related diseases.','Sedentary lifestyle is one of the most important factors causing obesity and its related diseases, as obese people follow a sedentary lifestyle and it has been reported that there is a causal relationship between obesity and sedentary lifestyle in many cases. However, it doesn’t mean that obesity and increased level of body fat cause some diseases only because of inactivity [1, 2], but hormonal changes caused by increased levels of body fat are of special importance in emergence and increased severity of obesity-related diseases.\r\nDisorder in systemic levels of hormones secreted from adipose tissue and other endocrine organs of body is of factors contributing to obesity and related diseases such as atherosclerosis, diabetes, and cardiovascular or respiratory diseases [3, 4]. Previous studies have shown that these peptide mediators regulate both the energy balance and body weight by interfering with the mechanisms of metabolism, resting energy expenditure, food absorption rate, and appetite control [1]. For instance, leptin, which is known as a hormone involved in reducing hunger and appetite control and also as one of the factors influencing the relationship between obesity and its associated chronic disease, decreases during fasting and increases after feeding [5, 2]. These concepts can be differently applied to any of other \r\npeptides secreted by adipose tissue like Adiponectin, resistin or some of interleukins. Most studies have somehow stressed the role of these above-mentioned mediators in lipid disorders, insulin resistance, and obesity-related abnormalities [6, 7]. Hence, it seems that innovating and proposing appropriate solutions, besides medication, can play a potential role in preventing or reducing such diseases.\r\nThe role of exercise, as a non-medication solution, in establishing a balance in the level of these variables in healthy and patient populations has been extensively and frequently studied. Although there are different findings about peptide mediators response to various types of exercise, some studies have reported the positive effect of exercise [8, 9] and some others have denied any impact of exercise on these elements [10, 11]. For example, some studies reported a significant decrease in leptin [12] and some others observed no change in the levels of leptin or other peptide mediators [13] in response to exercise. Researchers have attributed these inconsistencies to the difference in the intensity and duration of exercise, difference in blood sampling time, and difference in the studied population. According to these inconsistent pieces of evidence, the present study aims to determine the acute and delayed (after 60 minutes) response of leptin to a session of running at a moderate intensity in sedentary obese men.\r\nMATERIAL AND METHODS\r\nA. Human subjects\r\nIn this study, acute and recovery (60 min) response of serum leptin to one moderate exercise were measured in sedentary adult obese men. Subjects were fifteen non-trained adult obese men aged 35-43 year and BMI 30-34 kg/m2 and were completed exercise test. The study protocol was approved by the institutional ethics committee of Islamic Azad University, Iran. \r\nB. Inclusion and exclusion criteria\r\nSubjects were asked to complete questionnaires on anthropometric characteristics, general health, smoking, alcohol consumption, and present medications. Participants were non-smokers and non-alcoholics. Participants were included if they had not been involved in regular physical activity/diet in the previous 6 months. None of the subjects used drugs or therapies for obesity, and none had a past history of disease or injury that would prevent daily exercise. Exclusion criteria included having history of known hyperlipidemia, hypertension, coronary artery disease, cerebrovascular disease, peripheral artery disease and type 2 diabetes.\r\nC. Anthropometric measurements\r\nAfter the nature of the study was explained in detail, informed consent was obtained from all participants. Anthropometric measurements were performed in all study participants before breakfast, with the subject wearing light clothing without shoes. Weight was measured to the nearest 100 g using digital scales. Standing height was measured to the nearest 0.1 cm with the use of a wall-mounted stadiometer. Waist circumference and hip circumference were measured in the most condensed part using a non-elastic cloth meter. Percentage of body fat was estimated by bioelectrical impedance method (Omron Body Fat Analyzer, Finland). Body mass index (BMI) was calculated by dividing body mass (kg) by height in meters squared (m2). All anthropometric measurements were made by the same trained general physician.\r\nD. Blood samples and exercise test\r\nVenous blood samples were obtained before, immediately after, and after 60 minutes of recovery. Serums were immediately separated in order to measure leptin by ELISA method (Biovendor-Laboratoria medicina a.s. Czech). Concentrations of leptin were measured and compared with each other. Exercise test lasted 45 min at 70 % of maximal heart rate. The intensity of the activity of any person was controlled using the Polar heart rate tester (made in the US). \r\n\r\n\r\nE. Data analyses\r\nAfter calculation of the mean and the standard deviation, the statistical analysis was conducted using the SPSS software version 15.0. The Kolmogorov-Smirnov test was applied to determine the variables with normal distribution. Results are presented as means ± SD. Data were analyzed by two-way repeated-measures ANOVA. A P-value of < 0.05 was considered to be statistically significant.\r\nRESULTS\r\nIn this study, acute and recovery response of serum leptin to a moderate exercise test were determined. Table 1 show the descriptive anthropometric and biochemical features of the study groups. All subjects were obese. Data by repeated measure method sowed no significant differences in serum leptin between pre-test, immediately and 60 min recovery. On the other hand, we did not observe acute or recovery response of serum leptin to exercise test compared to baseline in studied obese subjects (Table 2 and Fig. 1). \r\nDISCUSSION\r\nNo significant change in serum leptin levels immediately and one hour after the exercise is one of the main findings of the present study. According to the findings of this study, it can be concluded that serum leptin levels in obese men do not show a significant acute and delayed (after 60 minutes) to a relatively long running session at a moderate intensity. This is both consistent and inconsistent with the findings of some previous studies that will be mentioned below.\r\nIt has been well documented that excessive increase in the volume of adipose tissue is associated with obesity-related health problems. Inflammatory characteristics of obesity are complex in the pathogenesis of obesity-related mortality. Given its role in regulating the secretion and release of certain hormones and hormone receptors [14, 15], adipose tissue is known as an important endocrine organ that secretes some biological activators called adipokines [16, 17]. Regulation of body weight is a complex behavior that is influenced by physiological and genetic behaviors and other environmental interventions and energy balance is one of the most important factors affecting it [18]. Leptin is one of the peptide mediators related to obesity, as increased volume of adipose tissue, especially abdominal obesity is followed by higher levels of leptin [18, 19]. In fact, leptin is known as an anti-obesity or anti-hunger hormone which acts as an afferent signal in the negative feedback regulation of body weight through controlling the food intake and energy expenditure by affecting the cycle of hypothalamus-pituitary-gonads [20]. \r\nThe question is that why obese people show higher levels of lepitn compared with ordinary people. As an answer to this question, researchers have pointed to leptin resistance in obese individuals [21]. They argue that internal leptin resistance is the cause of obesity and leptin resistance resulting from obesity would cause damages to some peripheral tissues such as liver, pancreas, platelets, blood vessels, and myocardium [21].\r\nAlthough most studies have emphasized on the beneficial effects of sport activities and especially long-term exercises on serum or plasma levels of leptin or other peptide mediators involved in obesity or obesity-associated diseases [12, 22, 23], there are few contradictory findings about immediate and delayed response of leptin to short-term exercise tests or one-session tests. On the other hand, differences in the response of peptide mediators and inflammatory and anti-inflammatory cytokines to exercise tests are of the subjects that have attracted the attention of sport sciences researchers. It has been repeatedly observed that although some pro-inflammatory or anti-inflammatory cytokines do not change significantly after a specific exercise, some others considerably change compared with the primary levels. For example, in a recent study, despite a significant increase in Adiponectin, serum leptin levels did not change significantly in obese men in response to a short-term cycling session [24]. Another study showed that 45 minutes of running with an intensity of 65% VO2max did not lead to any significant change in Adiponectin concentration immediately, 24 hours, and 48 hours after an exercise test [25].\r\nHowever, in another study, it was reported that maximum rowing exercise for 30 minutes led to a decrease in leptin levels immediately and 30 minutes after the exercise [26]. Also, another finding indicates that 20 minutes of intense jogging by middle-aged men and women caused a significant decrease in leptin concentration but it returned to baseline levels after one hour of rest (27). Based on these findings, researchers have concluded that leptin response to an intense short exercise would be significant only when all the large muscles of body are involved [28]. Although the large muscles of body were involved in the exercise test performed in the present study, duration and intensity of exercise and the amount of calorie consumption also seem to have a major contribution to leptin response to exercise, because most of the studies that have reported the reduction in leptin levels, had used intense sport exercises [26, 27]. Also, some other studies have reported a significant decrease in serum leptin levels after a one-session physical activity with an energy expenditure of 1500 kcal followed by a negative energy balance [217]. \r\n\r\nWith regard to body weight and duration of exercise test in the present study, it does not seem that exercise test has been associated with negative energy balance in the subjects.\r\n','Mohammadi Rasoul, Sokhanguei Yahya and Edrisi Masoomeh (2014). Moderate exercise test is not associated with acute or recovery response of serum leptin in obese individuals. Biological Forum – An International Journal 6(2): 484-488.'),(4606,'120','Total antioxidant capacity among diabetic patients: relationship to cardiorespiratory fitness','Ghobadi Abdolnaser, Shabanpour Mahmoud and Torabi Mohsen','82 GHOBADI ABDOLNASER-9.pdf','',1,'Regular physical activity is recognized as a non-pharmacological treatment in type II diabetes of metabolic syndrome. This study was designed to test whether aerobic capacity or cardiorespiratory fitness is associated with total antioxidant capacity in diabetes patients. Subjects were twenty six sedentary men aged 42.9 ± 5.5 year and body weight 90 ± 5.79 kg with type II diabetes that participated in study by voluntary. Total antioxidant capacity, glucose and insulin were measured after overnight fast, Cardiorespiratory fitness (VO2max) was measured using a bicycle ergometer according to YMCA protocol. Pearson correlation was used to determine the association between variables. A P-value of < 0.05 was considered to be statistically significant. No significant correlation was observed between VO2max and total antioxidant capacity in studied patients (p = 0.76, r = 0.06). Based on these data, it is concluded that antioxidant system can not affect cardiorespiratory fitness in diabetes patients, although future studies should examine the potential role of aerobic capacity or physical fitness in systemic inflammation or immune system in diabetes or other chronic diseases.','Immune system, Inflammation, Insulin resistance, Diabetes','Regular physical activity is recognized as a non-pharmacological treatment in type II diabetes of metabolic syndrome. This study was designed to test whether aerobic capacity or cardiorespiratory fitness is associated with total antioxidant capacity in diabetes patients. Subjects were twenty six sedentary men aged 42.9 ± 5.5 year and body weight 90 ± 5.79 kg with type II diabetes that participated in study by voluntary. Total antioxidant capacity, glucose and insulin were measured after overnight fast, Cardiorespiratory fitness (VO2max) was measured using a bicycle ergometer according to YMCA protocol. Pearson correlation was used to determine the association between variables. A P-value of < 0.05 was considered to be statistically significant. No significant correlation was observed between VO2max and total antioxidant capacity in studied patients (p = 0.76, r = 0.06). Based on these data, it is concluded that antioxidant system can not affect cardiorespiratory fitness in diabetes patients, although future studies should examine the potential role of aerobic capacity or physical fitness in systemic inflammation or immune system in diabetes or other chronic diseases.','INTRODUCTION\r\nThe increasing development of chronic diseases including type 2 diabetes, asthma, insulin resistance, metabolic syndrome, blood pressure, cardiovascular diseases, and some types of cancer are somehow correlated with the increasing obesity. Therefore, the issue of obesity and its side effects has attracted the attention of many researches of basic and clinical sciences. Among obesity dependent diseases, type 2 diabetes is one of the most important chronic diseases shoes global statistics, including Iran, is increasingly growing [1, 2]. \r\nThis disease has been known to be the fourth leading cause of death in developed countries [3] and according to the statistics of the diabetes international federation in 2010, more than 258 million people suffer from it around the world [4]. In addition to hyperglycemia and insulin resistance reduction, this disease is coupled with systemic inflammation and decreased immune system capacity against the presence of free radicals and oxidants [5]. Scientific references have pointed out oxidant stress and decreased antioxidants capacity in these patients [6]. In this regards, some studies have reported the decreased total antioxidant capacity in type 2 diabetics in comparison to non-diabetic healthy people [7]. Moreover, it is reported that the decreased total antioxidant capacity, or oxidative stress conditions, somehow provide the context for the development of other metabolic disorders [8] and cardiovascular diseases [9]. Therefore, important strategies have been proposed to these patients who aim to improve the metabolic profile by consuming substances containing antioxidants [10]. On the other hand, scientific references have shown the decreased cardiorespiratory fitness of these patients in contrast to healthy people [11]. Although an inactive and sedentary life style plays an important role in mitigating the cardiorespiratory fitness of these patients, it is assumed that some other external and internal stimuli are effective in the decreased cardiorespiratory fitness of these patients. Specifically, scientific references have supported a significant relationship between VO2max, as a physiological index of determining the cardiorespiratory fitness, and TNF-α and IL-6 as two proinflammatory cytokines, in the obese populations [12]. \r\nThese findings support the role of systemic inflammation in the level of cardiovascular fitness. However, despite these observations, few studies have followed the relationship between cardiovascular fitness and oxidant stress, oxidant levels, or antioxidant capacity of type 2 diabetics. The related work somehow points out the role of antioxidant profile in the cardiovascular fitness or aerobic capacity of these patients. Therefore, this study aims to determine the relationship of VO2max, as a prominent index of physiological cardiovascular fitness and the total antioxidant capacity of male type 2 diabetics.\r\n \r\n\r\n\r\nMETHOD AND SUBJECTS\r\nAs previous mentioned, the purpose of this study was to examine the relation of VO2max as a good determinant of cardiorespiratory fitness or aerobic capacity with total antioxidant capacity in diabetes men. For this purpose, a total twenty six sedentary adult men with type II diabetes aged 42.9 ± 5.5 year and BMI 30 ± 2.54 kg/m2 were recruited in study and underwent exercise test for measurement of VO2max. Written informed consent was obtained from all participants. \r\nParticipants were included if they had not been involved in regular physical activity or diet in the previous 6 months. Exclusion criteria for the study group were: coronary artery disease, cerebrovascular disease, peripheral artery disease, asthma and chronic obstructive lung diseases. Those that were unable to avoid taking hypoglycemic drugs or insulin sensitivity-altering drugs for 12 hours before blood sampling were also barred from participating in the study.\r\nAnthropometry: A medical history to retrieve information about health status, current medications and a physical examination including height, weight, waist circumference and blood pressure were performed before study. Weight was measured to the nearest 100 g using digital scales. Height of the barefoot subjects was measured to the nearest 0.1 cm. Obesity was defined as BMI kg/m2. BMI was calculated as weight (kg)/height (m2). Percentage body fat was measured using body composition monitor (OMRON, Finland). Resting blood pressure (BP) levels were measured in the right arm with a cuff sphygmomanometer after a participant had been resting for 10 min.\r\nCardiorespiratory Fitness and biochemistry: Venous blood samples were obtained after overnight fast at morning (8.00 a.m.). Blood used to determine TAC by FRAP method. Maximum volume of oxygen utilization (VO2max) was measured using a bicycle ergometer (Tuntury F90, made in Finland.) in a stepwise fashion according to YMCA protocol [13]. Cycling test included 5 continues stage without rest between stages and each stage lasted 3 minute.\r\nStatistical analysis: Data were analyzed by computer using the Statistical Package for Social Sciences (SPSS) for Windows, version 15.0. Normality of distribution was assessed by Kolmogorov-Smirnov test. The association between VO2max and total antioxidant capacity was assessed using Pearson’s correlation coefficient. A probability level of p<0.05 was used to indicate statistical significance.\r\nRESULTS\r\nThe association of total antioxidant capacity and VO2max in adult men with type II diabetes was determined in present study. Anthropometric, clinical and physiological characteristics of the study participants are described in Table 1. Data of statistical analysis showed that all subjects were obese or overweight. \r\nBased on Pearson correlation coefficient test, total antioxidant capacity was not correlated with VO2max in studied patients (p = 0.76, r = 0.06, Fig. 1, Table 2). On the other hand, cardiorespiratory fitness is not associated with antioxidant system in type II diabetes patients.\r\nDISCUSSION\r\nThe main finding of this research is that the cardiovascular fitness level of type 2 diabetics is not related to the antioxidant profile. In other words, this research has proved that although for type 2 diabetics, VO2max variations, as a cardiovascular fitness index is in line with the total antioxidant capacity, however, their relationship is not statistically significant; while, these patients present lower levels of both these variables in contrast to non-diabetic healthy people. In other words, type 2 diabetics have lower cardiovascular fitness and total antioxidant capacity in comparison to healthy people.\r\nThe oxidant imbalance of antioxidants, including undesirable biochemical changes in diabetes, plays an important role in the development and spread of vascular side effects in diabetes patients [5]. Specifically, the weakening of the antioxidant system, the depletion of antioxidant reserves, decreased activity of antioxidant defense enzymes, including catalase, peroxidase, superoxide dismutase and glutathione peroxidase, and finally the total antioxidant capacity of diabetics lead to a faulty antioxidant defense system and the activation of stress sensitive intracellular signaling routes, increased expression of genes involved in inflammation and tissue injuries [7, 14].\r\nOxidant stress is effectively increased in both type 1 and 2 diabetes [15]. This occurs in response to the imbalance between produced free radicals of oxygen and the antioxidant defense. Many studies have reported the relationship between high blood sugar and the activation of oxidant stress [16]. Several factors are effective in high levels of free radicals, including the decreased antioxidant capacity due to the increased blood sugar. Specifically, researches have pointed out the decreased antioxidant \r\ncapacity and levels of some antioxidants, e.g. Glutathione and Superoxide dismutase, in diabetics in comparison to non-diabetics [7]. Although, so far, few studies have reported a relationship between cardiovascular fitness and antioxidant defense in diabetics. However, some studies have pointed out the relationship between total antioxidant capacity and inflammatory cytokines, e.g. CRP or TNF-α [17, 18, 19]. On the other hand, the increasing effect of these inflammatory cytokines, e.g. TNF-α, on blood sugar levels and insulin resistance is frequently reported [20]. These findings somehow support the role of oxidant stress or antioxidant capacity in blood sugar levels and other determinants of diabetes. Moreover, the relationship between inflammatory mediators affecting the antioxidant defense, e.g. IL-1B, IL-6, and TNF-α, which were mentioned earlier, and cardiovascular fitness levels of various populations have been reported by several studies [21]. These findings support the effect of systemic inflammation on the cardiovascular fitness or the aerobic capacity. Furthermore, scientific references have pointed out the increased total antioxidant capacity [22, 23] and the aerobic capacity or cardiovascular fitness [24, 25, 26] of diabetics or other healthy or patient populations [27]. This means that the response of both these variables to regular exercise is in line and follows a natural pattern. Therefore, we can conclude that the total antioxidant capacity and cardiovascular fitness directly affect one another. Despite these statements, this study finds no relationship between these variables for type 2 diabetes. On the other hand, their insignificant relationship can be explained by the low number of failed samples which is a constraint of this research. This is also probable that the total antioxidant capacity and the aerobic capacity, each affect one another indirectly or through other hormonal and metabolic mediators. \r\n','Ghobadi Abdolnaser, Shabanpour Mahmoud and Torabi Mohsen (2014). Total antioxidant capacity among diabetic patients: relationship to cardiorespiratory fitness. Biological Forum – An International Journal 6(2): 494-498. '),(4607,'120','Serum Imonoglobin E and aerobic training in cigarette smoke','Sokhanguei Yahya, Masoomeh Edrisi and Mohammadi Rasoul','84 SOKHANGUEI YAHYA-11.pdf','',1,'Serum IgE is known to be influence in allergic or asthma prevalence. The objective of this study was to evaluate the effect of aerobic training program on serum IgE in cigarette smokers. A totally 24 sedentary adult smoker males aged 36 ± 12 year and height 174 ± 4 cm were participated in this study by accessible samples and selected into exercise and control groups by randomly. Inclusion criteria for participate in study was smoking 10 cigarettes a day for at least 5 years. Pre and post training (3 months aerobic training, 3 times / weekly) blood samples were collected of all participants in two groups on order to calculation serum IgE. Student’s t-tests for paired samples were performed to determine significance of change in serum IgE by aerobic program. P value of <0.05 was accepted as significant. These were no significant difference in serum IgE and anthropometrical markers between two groups at baseline. No differences were observed in serum IgE between pre and post training in exercise group. Aerobic training resulted in significant decrease in all anthropometrical markers. All variables remained without change in control subjects. Based on these data, it concludes that long term aerobic training can not affect serum IgE in cigarette smokers. ','Allergy, Aerobic Training, Smoking, Inflammation','Serum IgE is known to be influence in allergic or asthma prevalence. The objective of this study was to evaluate the effect of aerobic training program on serum IgE in cigarette smokers. A totally 24 sedentary adult smoker males aged 36 ± 12 year and height 174 ± 4 cm were participated in this study by accessible samples and selected into exercise and control groups by randomly. Inclusion criteria for participate in study was smoking 10 cigarettes a day for at least 5 years. Pre and post training (3 months aerobic training, 3 times / weekly) blood samples were collected of all participants in two groups on order to calculation serum IgE. Student’s t-tests for paired samples were performed to determine significance of change in serum IgE by aerobic program. P value of <0.05 was accepted as significant. These were no significant difference in serum IgE and anthropometrical markers between two groups at baseline. No differences were observed in serum IgE between pre and post training in exercise group. Aerobic training resulted in significant decrease in all anthropometrical markers. All variables remained without change in control subjects. Based on these data, it concludes that long term aerobic training can not affect serum IgE in cigarette smokers. ','Not only for years or consecutive decades, but it is for centuries that smoking has become prevalent, such that it is more than 4 centuries that consuming tobacco, as a daily habit, has rooted in everyday human life. Perpetual consumption of tobacco has been known as the second leading cause of death in today`s world. Secreting inflammatory mediators into the bloodstream by smoking has been introduced as the cause of many chronic and inflammatory diseases [1, 2]. \r\nThe inflammatory effects of smoking are reported so high that even after 10 to 20 years after quitting smoking, some inflammatory mediators, like C-Reactive protean, still remain in high levels in the body. Although some changes due to smoking are reversible after quitting [3]. New statistics and numbers indicate that more than 700 million children suffer direct inhaling of cigarette smoke [4, 5]. \r\nIt has been clear that smoking increases the activity of many cells and stimulates inflammatory mediators and markers indicating the decreases performance of the immune system. For instance, in a relatively recent study, it was pointed out that smoking can mitigate the buffering performance of pulmonary epithelium against some allergens and can increase allergic inflammatory and allergic diseases by increasing the synthesis and secretion of immunoglobulin E (IgE) into the bloodstream [6]. Similar to other immunoglobulins, IgE is produced by plasma cells and B cells. Due to the high absorption power of mast cells on IgE, IgE levels of blood circulation is relatively lower in comparison to other immunoglobulins. IgE and mast cells play an important role in the immune system. The role of IgE and the activities of mast cells in asthma are clear through the close connection of increased serum levels of IgE and the intensity of asthma [7]. \r\nScientific references indicate that tobacco and smoking lead to increased density of IgE through multiple mechanisms which provide the condition for the spread of atopic diseases and asthma [8]. Therefore, it seems that reducing or quitting smoking or performing interventions or external stimuli, for instance, participating in exercise programs, particularly long term sport activities, lead to mitigating the side-effects of smoking. Based on this assumption, this study aims to determine the effect of a three month aerobic exercise on serum levels of IgE in a group of male smokers. \r\nMETHOD AND SUBJECTS\r\nThis study aimed to assess the effect of aerobic training on serum IgE in smokers. Subjects were twenty four non-trained males matched for age (36 ± 12 years) and height (174 ± 4 cm) with a history of cigarette smoking at least three years that participate in study through an advertisement in a local newspaper. Subjects were selected into exercise (n=12) or control (n=12) randomly. The exercise subjects were completed a three months aerobic training and control subjects were inactive in this period. Written consent was obtained from each subject after the experimental procedures and possible risks and beneﬁts were clearly explained.\r\nInclusion criteria: Participants were non trained and non-alcoholic. All participants reported being weight stable (±1kg) for 6 months prior to the study and engaged in physical activity less than once per month. Having history of at least 10 cigarettes a day for 5 years was the main criterion for inclusion. Those with known history of respiratory infections, neuromuscular disease, cardiopulmonary disease and type II diabetes or other chronic diseases were excluded.\r\nAnthropometry: Before and after the aerobic training, anthropometrical markers were measured in the morning following a 12-h fast. Height (Ht) and weight (Wt) were measured twice to ±0.2 cm and to ± 0.2 kg, respectively, with subjects being barefoot and lightly dressed; the averages of these measurements were recorded. BMI was calculated by dividing body mass (kg) by height in meters squared (m2). Waist to hip ratio (WHR) was calculated as waist circumference divided by hip circumference. Waist circumference and hip circumference were measured in the most condensed part using a non-elastic cloth meter.\r\nBiochemistry and exercise protocol: Pre and post training blood samples were collected of all participants in two groups on order to calculation serum IgE.\r\nVenous blood samples were obtained at rest between 8:00 and 9:00 am from the antecubital vein and Serum separated by centrifugation. Blood was drawn after 12 h of fasting and 1 day of minimal physical activity. The Intra- assay coefficient of variation and sensitivity of the method were 5.8% and 1.0 IU/ml respectively. Aerobic training program lasted three months for three sessions per week. Each exercise session involved 5-10 warm up, 30-45 main exercise and 5-10 cool up. Main exercise was walking or running on treadmill or smooth surface with no slope in a range of intensity between 60–80 (%) of maximal heart rate. Control subjects were instructed to maintain their habitual activities.\r\n Participants were instructed to maintain their usual diet throughout the duration of the study.\r\nStatistical analysis: The data were reported as mean and standard deviation, and analyzed using the SPSSW statistical package, version 16.0 (SPSS Inc., Chicago, IL, USA) for Windows W. Normality of distribution was assessed by Kolmogorov–Smirnov test. Independent student t test was used for between groups comparison. Pre- and post exercise serum IL-6 and anthropometrical markers were compared between conditions using a paired-samples t-test. Signiﬁcance was accepted at P < 0.05.\r\nRESULTS AND DISCUSSION\r\nTable 1 show the descriptive anthropometric and biochemical features of the exercise subjects. Anthropometric and biochemical characteristics of the control subjects are also described in Table 2. Compared to pre-training, serum IgE concentration did not change by exercise program when compared with baseline (p = 0.839, Table 3, 4). This variable was also remained without change in control groups. Aerobic exercise program results in significant decrease in body weight (p = 0.018), BMI (p = 0.017), Abdominal circumference (p = 0.000), hip circumference (p = 0.000) and body fat percentage (p = 0.000) (Table 3 and 4). The research findings regarding the response of IgE to different short and long term exercise programs are contradictory. This study was also unsuccessful to find a significant change in IgE by doing exercises. In other words, the three month aerobic exercise, three sessions per week, made no effect on the IgE levels of male smokers which lived an inactive life before.\r\nThe smokers are facing high risks of developing cardiovascular diseases, chronic respiratory diseases, metabolic diseases and diseases related to the metabolic syndrome, e.g. blood pressure, diabetes, and malignant diseases [9, 10, 11]. Scientific references have introduces factors like oxidative stress injury due to smoking as one of the most important factor of developing such anomalies in smokers [12, 13]. On the other hand, the degree of its synthesis by its constructive cells is relatively lower. It has been shown that the IgE levels are mostly increased under allergic conditions and its increase consequently intensifies allergic, inflammatory and infectious diseases. Particularly in industrialized countries, allergy is the most common reason for its increase. On the other hand, parasite infections have been introduced as the most common of its spread in developing countries [14].\r\n \r\n \r\nActive smokers and people exposes to cigarettes have a higher IgE level than non-smokers [15]. It has been shown that smoking increases the production and secretion of inflammatory cytokines including TNF-α, IL-6, IL-8, and IL-1, and reduces IgE levels which indicate its inflammatory effects [8]. Moreover, increased secretion of IgE from mast cells is another harmful agents of smoking, since it provides the conditions for developing or intensifying asthma and atopic diseases [8, 16]. It has been shown that even in non-smokers, who are exposed to cigarette smoke, have increased IgE levels [17]. IgE and mast cells play an important role in the immune system. The role of IgE and activates of mast cells in asthma is clear through the close connection of increased serum levels of IgE and the intensity of asthma [7].\r\nRegarding the findings of this study and previous research, it seems that the type and protocol of the exercise program has a determinant role in IgE responses. In line with our findings, despite losing weight in response to a three month sport exercise, another study has found no significant change in IgE levels of obese men [18]. This research indicates that IgE levels of obesity, which is an effective factor in developing allergy and asthma, is considerably higher than people with normal weights [20]. The fat mass is a predictor of IgE levels in obese people [21]. The study of Thomas (2003) discusses the important role of IL-1ß and IgE in obesity related asthma diseases [22]. Researchers have supported the direct and significant connection of IL-1ß and IgE in the obese population [23]. Furthermore, the type of the studies population and the initial levels of IgE is very important in its response to exercise. Another study shows that one biking session leaded to a significant reduction of IgE in asthma patients [24].\r\nIn summation, it generally seems that several factors are effective in IgE levels of smokers or other healthy or patient populations. According to previous observations, it can be concluded that the response of IgE to exercise is related to its type, intensity, and duration, as well as the studies population. On the other hand, we must point out that the initial IgE levels, i.e. its resting values, before the exercise also play an important role in its later response to external interventions. \r\n','Sokhanguei Yahya, Masoomeh Edrisi and Mohammadi Rasoul (2014). Serum Imonoglobin E and aerobic training in cigarette smoke. Biological Forum – An International Journal 6(2): 504-508. '),(4608,'120','Lipid profile Markers in Obese and Normal Weigh Individuals and their Relation with Obesity Determinants','Assadi Fatemeh and Nooraei Farahnaz','86 ASSADI FATEMEH.pdf','',1,'Accumulating evidence suggests that obesity plays an important role in developing type 2 diabetes and metabolic syndrome. In this study, we aimed 1) to compare lipid profile markers between obese and normal weight subjects and 2) to assess the relationship between these variables with obesity determinants in obese subjects. For this purpose, anthropometrical markers and fasting blood were collected in thirteen obese men (Body mass index, BMI, 30-36 kg/m2) and thirteen normal weight men (BMI, 20-25 kg/m2) matched for age 35-50 years. Blood used for triglyceride (TG), total cholesterol (TC), and low-density lipoprotein (LDL) and high-density lipoprotein (HDL). Pearson’s correlation coefficients were used to evaluate the correlations between variables. At baseline, TG, TC and LDL levels were significantly higher in obese group in comparison to normal weight subjects (p < 0.05). Except HDL, a positive association was found between other lipid profile markers (TG, TC and LDL) with obesity determinants such as abdominal obesity, body fat (%) and visceral fat (p < 0.05). Our findings indicate that obesity might be a contributor to the increased prevalence of cardiovascular disease or metabolic syndrome.','Obesity, Metabolic syndrome, Lipid profile','Accumulating evidence suggests that obesity plays an important role in developing type 2 diabetes and metabolic syndrome. In this study, we aimed 1) to compare lipid profile markers between obese and normal weight subjects and 2) to assess the relationship between these variables with obesity determinants in obese subjects. For this purpose, anthropometrical markers and fasting blood were collected in thirteen obese men (Body mass index, BMI, 30-36 kg/m2) and thirteen normal weight men (BMI, 20-25 kg/m2) matched for age 35-50 years. Blood used for triglyceride (TG), total cholesterol (TC), and low-density lipoprotein (LDL) and high-density lipoprotein (HDL). Pearson’s correlation coefficients were used to evaluate the correlations between variables. At baseline, TG, TC and LDL levels were significantly higher in obese group in comparison to normal weight subjects (p < 0.05). Except HDL, a positive association was found between other lipid profile markers (TG, TC and LDL) with obesity determinants such as abdominal obesity, body fat (%) and visceral fat (p < 0.05). Our findings indicate that obesity might be a contributor to the increased prevalence of cardiovascular disease or metabolic syndrome.','Over the past two decades, obesity has been considered the main focus of health science researchers as one of the most significant metabolic uncontagious disorders. The mounting increasing risk of obesity and its following hazardous consequences, along with the industrialization of societies and lifestyle shifts, has made the prevention and treatment of obesity outstand as a subtle challenge for health systems. Increased fat percentage and adipose tissue in obesity, on top of the emotional distress and the fatigue due to tolerating the extra supply of body fat, also disrupts the endocrine system and impairment of hormone or peptide mediator’s levels that interpose substantially to promote these forms of illness in the obese population [1]. \r\nThus, it is clearly vivid that adipose tissue besides being the most massive reservoir of fat in the body, it is also an endocrine organ, that secretes enormous amounts of peptide mediators in the form of adipokines or adipcytokines [2]. In this regard, it has been shown that obesity is not only influenced by impairment of some metabolic factors like fat profile markers including TG, TC, LDL, and HDL but also in many instances by the disruption of adipose tissue endocrine functions. The prevalence of these diseases cumulatively correlates with metabolic syndrome intensifies disease status [3]. \r\nSome studies have shown that inflammatory cytokines increase production of vLDL, which in turn justifies the correlation of cytokine with plasma TG [4]. The direct and significant integrity of inflammatory cytokines such as TNF-α with TG and cardiovascular diseases have also been reported by other studies [5]. Conversely, although medical references have advocated the raise of cardiovascular risk factors in the obese population compared to the normal society, nevertheless, apart from body weight, the correlation amongst cardiovascular risk factors with other Anthropometric indexes for instance abdominal perimeter and body fat percentage has been less explored. Therefore, the following study deliberates to explore the linkage amongst cardiovascular risk factors incorporating the two parameters of abdominal perimeter and body fat percentage in addition to the association of cardiovascular risk factors among obese and normal populations. \r\n \r\n\r\nMATERIALS AND METHOD \r\nThirteen adult obese (BMI, 30-36 kg/m2) and the same number normal weight (BMI, 20-25 kg/m2) matched for sex (men) and age (35-50 kg) participated in the study. All subjects were otherwise in good health were taking no medications. All subjects were non-smokers. All participants had not participated in regular exercise/diet programs for the preceding 6 months. We also excluded people who had any self reported physician diagnosed chronic disease (arthritis, stroke, diabetes, hypertension, cancer, heart attack, chronic cough, or bronchitis). The study was conducted with the approval of the Ethics Committee of the Islamic Azad University, Iran. All study participants completed the consent process and provided written informed consent prior to randomization.\r\nA. Anthropometry and biochemistry\r\nBoth populations underwent anthropometric measurements. All of measurements were conducted by the same researcher. Standing height was measured to the nearest 0.1 cm with the use of a wall-mounted stadiometer. Body weight was measured in duplicate in the morning following a 12-h fast. Obesity was measured by body mass index (BMI). Body mass index (BMI) was calculated by dividing body mass (kg) by height in meters squared (m2). Waist circumference (WC) was measured at the superior border of the iliac crest and was taken to the nearest 0.1 cm after a normal expiration. Waist-hip ratio (WHR) was calculated. Each of these measurements was conducted three times and the average was reported. \r\nFasting blood samples were taken for measure the lipid profile markers. Triglyceride, total cholesterol, HDL and LDL-cholesterol was measured directly with enzymatic methods (Randox direct kits) using Kobas Mira auto-analyzer made in Germany. All participants refrained from any severe physical activity 48 h before measurements.\r\nB. Statistical Analysis\r\nData were analyzed by computer using the Statistical Package for Social Sciences (SPSS) for Windows, version 15.0. We verified normal distribution of variables with a Kolmogorov–Smirnov test, and the parametric variables with skewed distribution were expressed as mean ± SD. Independent student t test was used for between groups comparison at baseline. The correlations between variables were determined using the bivariate correlation test (Pearson’s correlation coefficients). A p value of less than 0.05 was considered as statistically signiﬁcant.\r\n\r\nRESULTS\r\nIn this study, at first, we compared cardiovascular risk factors between obsess and normal weight healthy untrained men. Anthropometric and metabolic characteristics of the study participants in the normal and obese groups are shown in Table 1. \r\nData of independent t test showed that significant difference in TG, TC and LDL between two groups. Serum triglyceride levels were significantly higher in obese group in comparison to normal weight subjects (p = 0.039). Total cholesterol (p = 0.036) and LDL (p = 0.000) levels in obese subjects showed were significantly higher than those with normal weight. There was no statistically significant difference in HDL-cholesterol between two groups (p = 0.728). The association between lipid profile markers and obesity determinants are showed in table 2. Data of correlation analysis showed that abdominal obesity is positively correlated with TG, TC and LDL-cholesterol (p < 0.05). Body fat percentage was also positively correlated with TG, TC and LDL-cholesterol (p < 0.05). A significant positive correlation was also between TG, TC and LDL with other obesity determinants such as BMI, body weigh and hip circumference (p < 0.05).\r\nDISCUSSION\r\nIn the present study, serum levels of each lipid profile indicators, such as TG, TC and LDL-C in adult obese men were significantly higher than those of normal weight men. However, these findings somehow support the idea of increased cardiovascular risk factors among the obese population and emphasizes on the theme that obesity is the foreground of cardiovascular disorders. Nonetheless, the findings of the present study recites of no significant differences in HDL as a supplementary indicator of lipid profile in obese men compared to men of normal weight.\r\nThe belief that the role of adipose tissue is being the sole resort of body fat reservoir in the form of Triglycerides or fatty acids has been replaced in recent years by the new theory; that, this tissue also has a crucial role in the metabolism of fat and carbohydrates, plus, the secretion of many other numerous hormones such as angiotensin, adiponectin, and Leptin [6]. The prevalence of obesity (increased adipose tissue) and the risk factors correlated with obesity correspond closely to the prevalence of cardiovascular diseases and type 2 diabetes [7, 8]. Impairment of blood flow, and other vascular ailment risk factors, in coexistence with obesity are most predictive exclamations of metabolic syndrome disorders [9].\r\nOn the other hand, impaired secretion of adipocytokines from adipose tissue somehow impacts levels of lipid profile indicators or cardiovascular risk factors [13, 14]. In other words, obesity is associated with systemic inflammation in both humans and animals, and increased inflammation is associated with cardiovascular and metabolic disorders [15, 16].\r\nAlternatively, it is known that, promoting weight loss in obese subjects marks amelioration of cardiovascular risk factors and amendment of serum C-reactive protein, and lipid levels in the blood [17]. Obese patients continuously demonstrate increased levels of fasting glucose, lipids, and insulin resistance [18-20]. Thus, however, some research have indicated no association between obesity and metabolic risk factors, such as TC and LDL [21] . Yet, other research have discovered, higher risk levels of metabolic factors subsequent to Leptin and CRP, as inspirational peptides in lipid and carbohydrate metabolism in obese patients compared to normal weight subjects [22]. In this context, the findings of another study, introduced the measurement of waist circumference as one of the referring markers of obesity, one of the most important factors of metabolic syndrome diagnosis [22].\r\nIn the present study, in addition to higher levels of cardiovascular risk factors such as TG, TC, and LDL in obese men than in normal weighted men; consequently, a significant correlation between these risk factors and indexes of obesity, such as waist circumference, visceral fat, and body fat percentage can also be perceived. In other words, the correlation between cardiovascular risk factors with obesity referring indexes such as abdomen perimeter, visceral fat, and body fat percentage were established. In other terms, the correlation between cardiovascular risk factors with obesity referring indexes in both groups of obese and normal weight subjects were direct and significant, in turn, supporting the cardiovascular risk factor theme, they collectively, have a trivial role in obesity and increased percentage of fat circulating the blood. In contrast to these findings, no significant association between HDL and obesity referring indexes were understood in both groups. As a general conclusion, the findings of this study, advocates that cardiovascular risk factors are in higher levels in obese subjects compared to normal weight men. However, the lack of significant difference of HDL levels between obese and normal weight subjects in this study is probably due to scarcity of inquiring samples.\r\n','Assadi Fatemeh and Nooraei Farahnaz (2014). Lipid profile Markers in Obese and Normal Weigh Individuals and their Relation with Obesity Determinants. Biological Forum – An International Journal 6(2): 514-518.'),(4609,'120','Aerobic Capacity and High Sensitivity C - reactive protein in Obese Men','Reza Behdari, Husseini Masoomeh and Shahin Riyahi Malayeri','87 HUSSEINI MASOOMEH.pdf','',1,'Aerobic capacity or cardiorespiratory fitness is hypothesized to be related with systemic inflammation. The association of aerobic capacity (VO2max) as cardiorespiratory fitness with C - reactive protein (CRP) as pro-inflammatory cytokine and obesity determinants was determined in twenty eight inactive adult obese men aged 37.1 ± 4 year and body mass index (BMI) 32.7 ± 3 kg/m2 was determined in present study. Pearson’s correlation coefficient was run for testing of correlation analysis. There were no correlation between CRP concentration and any aerobic capacity in studied subjects (p = 0.94). In contrast, aerobic capacity (VO2max) is strongly and inversely associated with anthropometrical markers as obesity determinants (p > 0.05). This finding does not confirmed of CRP as a predictor of cardiorespiratory fitness on inactive obese subjects. ','C - reactive protein, Aerobic capacity, Obesity, Inflammation','Aerobic capacity or cardiorespiratory fitness is hypothesized to be related with systemic inflammation. The association of aerobic capacity (VO2max) as cardiorespiratory fitness with C - reactive protein (CRP) as pro-inflammatory cytokine and obesity determinants was determined in twenty eight inactive adult obese men aged 37.1 ± 4 year and body mass index (BMI) 32.7 ± 3 kg/m2 was determined in present study. Pearson’s correlation coefficient was run for testing of correlation analysis. There were no correlation between CRP concentration and any aerobic capacity in studied subjects (p = 0.94). In contrast, aerobic capacity (VO2max) is strongly and inversely associated with anthropometrical markers as obesity determinants (p > 0.05). This finding does not confirmed of CRP as a predictor of cardiorespiratory fitness on inactive obese subjects. ','Obesity and related diseases are known as the leading causes of death in both developed and developing countries [1]. Obesity is associated with chronic inflammation and increased secretion of inflammatory cytokine [2]. In addition to elevated circulating levels of cytokines, obese people have higher levels of intracellular cytokines [3]. Cytokines are pro-inflammatory and anti-inflammatory mediators produced by peripheral blood mononuclear cells, adipocytes, hepatocytes, and skeletal muscles [4].\r\nChronic inflammation occurs in response to increased inflammatory cytokines like C-reactive protein (CRP) [5]. CRP is an inflammatory cytokine produced by the liver in response to acute infection or inflammation, and its plasma concentration can increase up to 1000 times in response to an injury or infection [6]. CRP is mainly synthesized by hepatic ducts, and is regulated by IL-1b, IL-6, and TNF-α. According to the scientific reports, as an inflammatory mediator, CRP is a better indicator than other cytokines in predicting cardiovascular diseases [7]. Several scientific sources suggest that CRP is the most important and useful clinical marker in identifying inflammation and evaluating cardiovascular diseases risk factors [8].\r\nScientific sources support this definition that obese people have higher levels of CRP than those with normal weight [9]. Low cardiorespiratory fitness or aerobic capacity in obese people has also been reported frequently [10]. High fat diet, inactivity, and lack of exercise contribute to obesity and its related diseases. In this regard, scientific sources have always supported decreased aerobic capacity and levels of physical fitness in the presence of obesity [11].The question is, whether low aerobic capacity or cardiorespiratory fitness is an independent outcome of physical inactivity and increased body fat of obese people, or is influenced by other factors such as hormonal components or inflammatory mediators? In response to the question, findings are limited and often conflicting. Some of the findings pointed out that cardiorespiratory fitness is associated with inflammatory components [12], and others pointed to the lack of relation between them [13]. Based on the existing evidence, this study is conducted to determine the relationship between VO2max as a physiological determinant of cardiovascular fitness and CRP as a leading inflammatory cytokine in obese people. \r\nMETHODS\r\nA. Subjects\r\n As mentioned above, in this study, we aimed to determine relationship between serum CRP and aerobic capacity in a group of non-trained obese men. Subjects were twenty eight inactive adult obese men aged 37.1 ± 4 year and body mass index (BMI) 32.7 ± 3 kg/m2 that participated in study by accessible samples. \r\n \r\n\r\n Behdari, Masoomeh and Malayeri 520\r\n \r\nThey were in active and non-smoker. All participants reported being weight stable (±1kg) for 6 months prior to the study and engaged in physical activity less than once per week. Subjects with a history or clinical evidence of impaired fasting glucose or diabetes, recent heart failure, active liver or kidney disease, or who were on medications were excluded. After introduction and awareness of the subjects of the objectives of the study and once they had completed consent forms, the process of test implementation began.\r\nB. Anthropometric measures\r\n Body weight, height, waist circumference and % body fat measurements were obtained by standard methods. Weight and height were measured in the morning, in fasting condition, standing, wearing light clothing and no shoes. Body mass index (BMI) was calculated as weight (kg) divided by squared height (m). Abdominal-to-hip ratio was calculated as abdominal circumference divided by hip circumference as measured to the nearest 0.5 cm with a standard measuring tape. Percentage of body fat was estimated by bioelectrical impedance method (Omron Body Fat Analyzer, Finland).\r\nC. Blood analysis and VO2max calculation\r\n CRP was measured after an overnight fast when subjects fated for 10-12 hours. The Intra- assay coefficient of variation and sensitivity of the method were 8.3% and 10 pg/mL, respectively for CRP. Maximum volume consumption (VO2max) was measured using a bicycle ergometer (Tuntury, F90, Finland) in a stepwise fashion according to YMCA protocol [14].\r\nD. Analyses\r\n Statistical analysis was performed with the SPSS software version 16.0 using a Pearson correlation method to determine the relationship between VO2max with CRP and anthropometrical markers. P value of less than 0.05 was regarded as indicative of a signiﬁcant difference.\r\nRESULTS\r\nRelationship of VO2max of a determinant marker of cardiorespiratory fitness with CRP as a inflammatory cytokine ere determined of adult obese men in present study. We also determined relation of VO2max with obesity determinants in studied subjects. Table 1 shows the descriptive anthropometric features, aerobic capacity and CRP of the study groups. Data of Pearson’s correlation coefficients showed that serum CRP was not associated with VO2max in obese studied subjects (p = 0.94, r = 0.02, Fig. 1). \r\nDespite lack relation of VO2max with CRP, this physiological marker was negatively correlated with body weight in studied subjects (p = 0.003, r = 0.55, Fig. 2). \r\nWe found that this physiological marker negatively associated with body mass index (p = 0.01, r = 0.48, Fig. 3). Cardiorespiratory fitness was also negatively correlated with abdominal circumference in obese subjects (p = 04, r = 0.39, Fig. 4). \r\nSystemic inflammation is a condition that the levels of systemic inflammatory cytokines such as TNF-α, IL-6, IL-1B and CRP increase up to 2 or 3 times [15]. But it is not yet clear whether or not the presence of systemic inflammation contribute to aerobic capacity or cardiorespiratory levels in healthy obese people or patients. There are different answers for these questions. Lack of relationship between serum levels of CRP and aerobic capacity was also detected in this study. Findings of the study indicated that elevated serum CRP levels are not associated with cardiorespiratory fitness in obese men, and their values are independent from each other.\r\nAdipose tissue is a great source of stored body fat. As a dynamic endocrine organ, adipose tissue secretes a number of peptide mediators which are capable of controlling fat stores (lipid metabolism), sensitivity to insulin, regulation of blood pressure, and energy balance [16, 17]. Excessive body fat contributes to systemic disorders of pro-inflammatory and anti-inflammatory mediators which may ultimately lead to prevalence of cardiovascular disease, type 2 diabetes and other obesity-related diseases in obese people [18]. The link between inflammatory components and insulin resistance has been detected in previous studies [19]. CRP is an effective inflammatory mediator to determine the levels of inflammation in most diseases. So that, CRP measurement is believed to be the only factor to detect inflammation; however, measurement of other inflammatory markers along with CRP may provide complimentary information about the mechanisms involved in inflammation [20]. Higher levels of CRP are associated with coronary heart diseases, obesity, diabetes, smoking, and sedentary lifestyle [21]. A recent study indicated that CRP along with age, blood pressure, and diabetes are the leading factors contributing to cardiovascular diseases in obese people [22].\r\nLack of association between CRP and aerobic capacity was observed in this research, while some of the previous studies supported the significant relationship between inflammatory cytokines and physiological factors associated with cardiorespiratory fitness. For example, in a recent study, a significant relationship between VO2max and serum levels of other inflammatory cytokines such as TNF-α and IL-6 was detected in overweight children [12]. In another study, higher levels of IL-6 and CRP were associated with lower levels of VO2max in asymptomatic men [23]. \r\nIt is possible that not all increased inflammatory cytokines contribute to cardiorespiratory fitness. In this regard, a recent study indicated that despite a significant relationship between VO2max and IL-6 in overweight young men, no significant relationship was observed between VO2max and TNF- α [12]. Another study also indicated that regardless of the association between VO2max and serum levels of IL-6 and TNF- α, no relationship was detected between VO2max and other proinflammatory or anti-inflammatory factors such as CRP, IL-1b and IL-10 [24]. In another study on Swedish children, no significant relationships were noted between CRP and fibrinogen [13]. In this study, when fat mass was entered into the regression model, no association was observed between levels of physical activity, cardiorespiratory fitness, and inflammatory markers [13]. Despite the lack of association between VO2max and CRP serum levels among obese men in this study, it is likely that levels of cardiorespiratory fitness are associated with CRP receptors in skeletal muscle IL-6 and TNF-α gene expression. It is also possible that CRP levels indirectly affect cardiorespiratory fitness levels through other pathways such as other hormonal factors.\r\nDespite the lack of significant association between VO2max and CRP serum levels, the research findings indicated an association between VO2max levels as a determinant factor of cardiorespiratory fitness and other indicators of obesity such as body weight and body mass index (BMI). So that, there was an adverse correlation between VO2max change patterns and weight and BMI patterns in obese subjects. In other words, people with higher BMI had lower levels of cardiorespiratory fitness. Based on the existing evidences, it can be concluded that aerobic capacity or cardiorespiratory fitness in inactive obese men is dependent on weight and BMI rather than inflammatory factors. However, further studies will be required to better understand the mechanisms responsible for reduced cardiorespiratory fitness in healthy obese people or patients.\r\n','Reza Behdari, Husseini Masoomeh and Shahin Riyahi Malayeri (2014). Aerobic Capacity and High Sensitivity C - reactive protein in Obese Men. Biological Forum – An International Journal 6(2): 519-523. '),(4610,'120','Serum IgE Level among Healthy Obese Subjects Acute Response to one Bout Exercise Test','Sokhanguei Yahya, Shahsavari Shahbaz and Ahmadi Mohsen','88 SOKHANGUEI YAHYA.pdf','',1,'This study aimed to determine relation in serum IgE with anthropometrical markers in inactive obese subjects, to assess IgE response to one bout exercise test in mentioned subjects. For this purpose, fifteen inactive adult obese men (BMI, 30-36 kg/m2; age 35-45 years) participated in study. Anthropometrical markers and fasting serum IgE were measured, serum IgE was also measured immediately after moderated running test. Pre and post exercise values on IgE was compared by T test Method. P value of <0.05 was accepted as significant. Serum IgE was positively correlated with body weight, abdominal obesity and BMI as obesity determinants (p < 0.05). Exercise test resulted in significant increase in serum IgE in studied subjects (p < 0.001). These data suggest that 1) obesity can be related with allergic property 2) one bout exercise test can be associated with allergic property in inactive obese subjects.','Allergy, Obesity, Single bout exercise, Weight','This study aimed to determine relation in serum IgE with anthropometrical markers in inactive obese subjects, to assess IgE response to one bout exercise test in mentioned subjects. For this purpose, fifteen inactive adult obese men (BMI, 30-36 kg/m2; age 35-45 years) participated in study. Anthropometrical markers and fasting serum IgE were measured, serum IgE was also measured immediately after moderated running test. Pre and post exercise values on IgE was compared by T test Method. P value of <0.05 was accepted as significant. Serum IgE was positively correlated with body weight, abdominal obesity and BMI as obesity determinants (p < 0.05). Exercise test resulted in significant increase in serum IgE in studied subjects (p < 0.001). These data suggest that 1) obesity can be related with allergic property 2) one bout exercise test can be associated with allergic property in inactive obese subjects.','Obesity, or overweight, is one of the worldwide health problems whose incidence is increasing in developing and developed countries. Increasing trend of obesity, particularly abdominal obesity, is associated with the increased risk of many chronic diseases, such as lung diseases, diabetes, hypertension, and other metabolic conditions [1]. The literature supports a relationship between the elevated levels of body fat, or obesity, and respiratory diseases such as asthma [2]. Their findings suggest that after normalizing the other factors in respiratory diseases, such as asthma, their prevalence in obese or overweight subjects was significantly higher than those with normal weight [3]. \r\nBased on this evidence, the researchers believe that weight gain and weight loss are respectively associated with reduced and increased severity of respiratory and allergic diseases [4]. Clinical observations also support the higher levels of allergic symptoms in obese subjects [5]. Among immunoglobulins, Immunoglobulin E (IgE) is a good predictor of allergic and respiratory diseases such as asthma [6] as an increased plasma concentration is associated with increased disease severity [7]. IgE is one of the five immunoglobulins of the body. Similar to other immunoglobulins, IgE is produced by B cells and \r\n\r\n\r\nplasma cells. IgE levels in the blood circulation are very low unlike other immunoglobulins because the mast cells have very high potential for absorbing IgE. IgE synthesis rate is also low. Its half-life in mast cells is more than 10 days. IgE levels often elevate in allergic conditions, and their increased levels aggravate the allergic, inflammatory, and infectious diseases as well as asthma [8]. \r\nResearchers have noted that obesity is associated with allergic symptoms or increased IgE levels [9, 10]. Hence, it appears that weight loss or reduced low body fat levels are associated with reduced IgE levels or reduced severity of obesity-related chronic respiratory diseases through internal or external intervention. Among the external intervention, the role of exercise have been identified as a factor in the improvement of inflammatory factors in patients with obesity or other obesity-related chronic diseases [11, 12]. However, some studies have reported the ineffectiveness of long-term training program on inflammatory factors in obese or patient populations [13, 14]. The effect of short-term training sessions on the allergic markers such as serum IgE in obese individuals has not been studied. Therefore, the present study aimed at determining the effect of on session of moderate-intensity running on IgE levels in a group of obese men.\r\nMETHOD AND SUBJECTS\r\nFifteen apparently healthy obese men aged 35-45 years and BMI 30-36 kg/m2 were assigned for this study through local advertising. Participants were untrained and no smokers. All participants signed an informed consent document approved by the Ethics Committee of Islamic Azad University, Iran.\r\nA medical history to retrieve information about health status, current medications and a physical examination including height, weight, body mass index. Subjects had not participated in regular exercise for the preceding 6 months and have stable body weight. The exclusion criteria were infections, renal diseases, hepatic disorders and a history of other chronic diseases.\r\nA. Anthropometric measures\r\nEach subject was measured for body weigh and other anthropometrical markers. Height and weight of participants were measured by standard procedures (in underwear, but barefoot). Waist circumference was measured at the midpoint between the lower edge of the rib cage and the top of the iliac crest. Waist to hip circumference ratio was measured by dividing the abdominal circumference into that of the hip. Body mass index (BMI) was calculated by dividing body mass (kg) by height in meters squared (m2). Percentage body fat was measured using body composition monitor (OMRON, Finland).\r\nB. Blood biochemistry examination and Exercise\r\nBlood was collected after overnight fast at 8.00 a.m. blood used for serum IgG. The Intra- assay coefficient of variation and sensitivity of the method were 5.87% and 1.0 IU/mL, respectively for IgE (Monobind Inc, CA 92630, USA). Serum IgE were measured immediately after exercise test. All subjects were completed 40 min running on surface with no slope. On the other hand, subjects was runnel 40 min with a moderate intensity at 70 (%) of maximal heart rate. Target heart rate was monitored by polar telemetry.\r\nC. Data analysis\r\nAll data were tested for normal distribution by the Kolmogorov-Smirnov test. Statistical tests were performed using SPSS Software (SPSS 15.0, free evaluation version). Pre- and post exercise serum IgE was compared between conditions using a paired-samples t-test. P>0.05 was considered as non-significant.\r\nRESULTS\r\nCharacteristics for the subjects are described in Table 1. Data were expressed as mean ± SD. Mani objective of present study was to evaluate serum IgE response to mentioned running test in obese subjects. Compared to pre-exercise, serum IgE concentration increased significantly after cycling test (from 85 ± 42 to 95 ± 41 IU/ml, p < 0.001).\r\nWe also determined the association of serum IgE with some anthropometrical markers as obesity determinants in studied subjects. Serum IgE was strongly and positively associated with body weight (p = 0.000, r = 0.85, Fig. 2). A significant positive correlation was observed in IgE with abdominal circumference (p = 0.02, r = 0.61, Fig. 3). Serum IgE was also correlated with body mass index in studied subjects (p = 0.03, r = 0.57, Fig. 4).\r\nDISCUSSION\r\nIn the present study, the response of serum IgE to a relatively long running session was significant. A 40-minute moderate-intensity running session significantly increased the serum IgE levels in obese men. These findings somehow support the inflammatory effects of this training protocol in the obese men who already had a sedentary lifestyle. Today, obesity is a widespread epidemic. According to WHO, more than a billion people suffer from obesity or overweight worldwide, and 300 million of them are classified as obese [15]. These studies suggest that the IgE levels in obese patients are significantly higher than those with normal weight [16]. Some studies have proposed the fat mass index as a predictor of IgE levels in obese subjects [17]. Thomas (2003) indicated the important role of IgE in the obesity-related asthma [18].\r\nIgE is a key factor in the pathophysiology of asthma and inflammatory reactions in the respiratory pathways. Its antibodies inhibit the incidence and the increased respiratory pathways inflammation [19]. Some studies have reported its increased plasma levels in obese or overweight individuals compared to the normal weight subjects. In this regard, Vincennes (2009) suggested that IgE levels in obese or overweight children and adults are much higher than those with normal weight which is associated with allergy and respiratory diseases [16]. Wilder (2008) studied 4000 children and reported higher levels of IgE in overweight or obese children compared to those with normal weight [20]. \r\nConsistent with those findings, the present study showed a significant relationship between serum IgE levels with some obesity indices in obese men. The relationship between the serum IgE levels and body weight, waist circumference, and hip circumference were significant and positive. On the other hand, the relationship between the serum IgE levels with other indices such as body mass index was direct but non-significant which may be due to the low number of samples. It is also possible that body fat percentage and other obesity factors indirectly affect the serum IgE levels in obese individuals though affecting other inflammatory or hormonal factors. In this regard, the findings of a previous study suggest a significant relationship between IgE levels and interleukine-1 beta (IL-1B) in obese subjects [21]. However Leung (2009) did not report significant differences in IgE levels between obese and normal weight subjects [22].\r\nSignificantly increase in IgE levels in response to an exercise session particularly immediately after the cessation of tests is not unexpected. Although there are few studies on the acute response of IgE to an exercise session in obese healthy or patients subjects, some of these studies have shown that only those exercise tests that have negative energy balance or a duration of 60 minutes or more are associated with anti-inflammatory properties [23, 24]. On the other hand, a significant increase in IgE following a session of exercise test in obese subjects has also been reported by some recent studies [25]. It is also possible that the anti-inflammatory or anti-allergic effects of single-session exercise tests appear in delay periods after the exercise test. \r\n','Sokhanguei Yahya, Shahsavari Shahbaz and Ahmadi Mohsen (2014). Serum IgE Level among Healthy Obese Subjects Acute Response to one Bout Exercise Test. Biological Forum – An International Journal 6(2): 524-529.'),(4611,'120','Effect of a Chronic Aerobic Training on Adipocytokine Resistin in Smokers','Hajirasouli Masoud, Hajirasouli Maral and Afsharmand Zohreh','89 HAJIRASOULI MASOUD.pdf','',1,'Previous epidemiological studies support an important contribution of smoking to the development of insulin resistance and cardiovascular diseases. In present study, we aimed to evaluate effect of aerobic training on serum resistin in smokers, a totally twenty six sedentary male smokers were randomly selected into experimental and control groups. Anthropometrical and fasting serum resistin were measured before and after 10 weeks aerobic training in experimental as well as control (no training) subjects. Comparisons of the study variables were performed between groups by one-way analysis of variance (ANOVA). No differences in resistin concentration and anthropometrical markers were found between two groups at baseline (p > 0.05). Significant decrease was observed after training program compared to their respective pre test values of anthropometrical markers in experimental groups (p < 0.05). Serum resistin was also increased by training program in experimental subjects (p = 0.012). Increased serum resistin by training program could be attributed to high exercise intensity or cigarette smoking during exercise intervention by smokers.','Smoke, Body weight, Aerobic training, Sedentary','Previous epidemiological studies support an important contribution of smoking to the development of insulin resistance and cardiovascular diseases. In present study, we aimed to evaluate effect of aerobic training on serum resistin in smokers, a totally twenty six sedentary male smokers were randomly selected into experimental and control groups. Anthropometrical and fasting serum resistin were measured before and after 10 weeks aerobic training in experimental as well as control (no training) subjects. Comparisons of the study variables were performed between groups by one-way analysis of variance (ANOVA). No differences in resistin concentration and anthropometrical markers were found between two groups at baseline (p > 0.05). Significant decrease was observed after training program compared to their respective pre test values of anthropometrical markers in experimental groups (p < 0.05). Serum resistin was also increased by training program in experimental subjects (p = 0.012). Increased serum resistin by training program could be attributed to high exercise intensity or cigarette smoking during exercise intervention by smokers.','In addition to numerous mental and psychological abnormalities, problems such as various kinds of cardiovascular diseases, type 2 diabetes, respiratory and kidney diseases, and some types of cancer are among the serious complications resulting from smoking not only in smokers but also in those who are around them. The relationship between smoking and systemic inflammation and cardiovascular diseases has been reported numerous times [1], and release of inflammation mediators caused by smoking has been suggested as the factor preparing the ground for the prevalence of many chronic and inflammatory diseases [2, 3]. \r\nSome complications resulting from smoking are reversible, but the harmful effects of other complications such as suppression of immune responses by inflammation intermediaries are so severe that they persist years after smokers quit [4]. Among the adipocytokines, resistin is a newly discovered hormone that is secreted by adipose tissue and plays an effective role in the relationship between obesity and insulin resistance [5]. Preliminary studies have shown resistin levels rise in obese and diabetic people [5]. In this relation, Menzaghi (2013), based on findings in her research, supported the opinion that high resistin levels were a risk factor for cardiovascular and other diseases related to diabetes [6]. Moreover, it has been proved that plasma-resistin levels are of special importance in the prevalence and severity of gestational diabetes because of their role in insulin sensitivity and resistance [7, 8]. Researchers have also supported reports that resistin levels rise in smokers [9], and it has been reported that there is a negative relationship between resistin and spirometric indices in smokers [10], which somewhat supports the idea that resistin plays a role in respiratory function and airway resistance in smokers and in other respiratory diseases such as asthma [10]. Nevertheless, some scientists have reported resistin is not related to other inflammatory markers such as CRP and homocysteine in smokers [11]. \r\nDespite the fact that a considerable number of studies have been carried out, limited research has been conducted on resistin response to various training programs in smokers. Moreover, scientific findings in other healthy or sick populations are contradictory to some extent so that those of a recent study showed a significant reduction in serum resistin levels following 12 months of aerobic training by obese people [12].\r\nHowever, in another study, concentration of this intermediary peptide did not significantly change after 14 months of training [13]. Some other studies have also observed significant reductions in serum resistin levels in the absence of significant decreases in body weight [14]. Based on contradictory observations regarding resistin response to training programs in other populations, and since limited research has been carried out on smokers, this study was conducted to determine what effects 10 weeks of aerobic training had on serum resistin levels in male smokers.\r\nMATERIALS AND METHODS \r\nTwenty six sedentary male smokers matched for age (35-45, aged) were randomly assigned to either a 10 weeks aerobic training group (experimental, n = 13) or a control group (no training, n = 13). The study protocol was approved by the ethics committee of Islamic Azad University and written informed consent was obtained from all participants. Subjects were excluded if they had not a chronic disease and able to participate in exercise training. A smoker is defined as a regular cigarette at least for 3 years. All subjects had not participated in regular exercise/diet programs for the preceding 6 months.\r\nA. Anthropometry\r\nAnthropometric measurements (body height and weight, waist and hip circumference) were performed with the subjects wearing light underwear and without shoes. Body weight and height were measured on the same day to the nearest 0.1 kg and the nearest 0.1 cm, respectively. Abdominal circumference and hip circumference were measured in the most condensed part using a non-elastic cloth meter. BMI was calculated as weight (kg)/height (m2). Blood pressure (BP) was measured with a mercury tensiometer at the right arm, with elbow flexed at heart level with the subject in a seated position after 5 minutes of rest. Two measurements were made every 1 minute and the average of two measurements was used for analysis.\r\nB. Blood samples and training program\r\nAll anthropometrical measurements were repeated after training program. Blood samples were also collected before and after (48 hours) intervention. Blood was obtained after a overnight fat between the hours of 8 to 9 am and used to serum resistin. Serum was immediately separated were stored at 70 °C until biochemical analyses were performed.\r\nExercise program lasted 10 weeks and subjects asked to participate in a set of exercises 3 days a week that supervised by a trained exercise physiologist. Exercise session involved a warm-up then a 45-60 min aerobic training at a work intensity of 60-80% of peak heart rate followed by a cooling-down period. Main exercise in each session was walling on running at mentioned intensity. The exercise intensity at first week was 60 % of Max heart rate that graduate increased at lasted sessions of exercise program.\r\nC. Statistical analysis\r\nAll statistical analyses were performed through the use of a statistical software package (SPSS, Version 15.0, SPSS Inc., IL, USA). The Kolmogorov-Smirnov test was applied to determine the variables with normal distribution. One way analysis of variance was used to determine whether the changes in the outcomes were signiﬁcantly different between groups. A criterion alpha level of P ≤ 0.05 was used for all statistical comparisons.\r\nRESULTS\r\nOur study objective was to assess effects of ten weeks aerobic training on serum resistin in males smokers. This study involved experimental and control subjects. \r\nAt baseline, there were no significant differences in anthropometrical markers between two groups (p ≥ 0.05). No difference was also observed between two groups with regard to serum resistin at baseline (p = 0.764). \r\nAnthropometrical and blood chemistry parameters during experimental protocol of control groups are shown in Table 1. Anthropometrical markers were not significantly changed after 10 weeks no training in control subjects (p – 0.05).\r\nTable 2 shows the changes in body weight, other anthropometrical markers and serum resistin of experimental group. Based on data of statistical analysis, all anthropometrical markers such as body weight, body mass index, body fat percentage, abdominal circumference decreased significantly by aerobic training in experimental subjects when compared with their pretest values (p < 0.05).\r\nAerobic training was also resulted in significant increase in serum resistin in experimental group (from 3.02+/-1.89 ng/ml to 4.74+/-2.04 ng/ml, p = 0.042) but this adipocytokine remained unchanged in control subjects (p = 0.793) (Fig. 1).\r\nDISCUSSION\r\nTen weeks of aerobic training significantly increased serum-resistin levels in male smokers and led to significant reductions in body weight. As was previously mentioned, some complications resulting from smoking persist even years after smokers quit. In this regard, findings of a study showed that some inflammation intermediaries such as CRP remained at high levels even 10 to 20 years after smokers quit, although some changes resulting from smoking were reversible after smokers quit [7]. \r\nContrary to rodents, resistin in humans is expressed in large quantities in macrophages and its expression increases in response to various proinflammatory stimulants such as lipopolysaccharides, TNF-α, IL-6, IL-1β, and resistin itself, which points to the role resistin plays in inflammation in humans [15, 16, 17]. \r\nSince there is a direct relationship between resistin levels and obesity, and also because studies have pointed to higher resistin levels in obese people compared to those with normal body weights [5, 18], it is expected reductions in body weight will be accompanied by reduced levels of resistin or other inflammation intermediaries. However, in this study, serum resistin significantly increased in response to the training program while there were significant reductions in body weight and body fat percentage. In this regard, some recent research has reported only those training programs influence levels of inflammatory cytokines that are accompanied by significant reductions in body weight [19], while it has been reported in other studies that levels of these cytokines do not change even when body weight decreases following long training programs [20]. \r\nAmong recent observations, a study that was conducted recently found serum-resistin levels significantly decreased following 12 weeks of aerobic training by obese people [12], while in another study serum levels of this peptide intermediary did not significantly change after 14 weeks of training [13]. Some other studies have also reported significant reductions in resistin levels without any significant decreases in weight [14], but still in other studies serum-resistin levels significantly declined following long-term aerobic training while levels of other cytokines such as adiponectin and leptin [21) and CRP [22] did not change. Changes in serum resistin levels of smokers in response to training programs may also be independent of changes in body weight, as was pointed out in a recent study that found serum- resistin levels were independent of BMI [11]. \r\nConsidering the existing contradictions, there is yet no consensus regarding the effects of aerobic training, especially long term aerobic training, on levels of these cytokines in various populations, and a general summing up of this point seems to be somewhat difficult. Nevertheless, the main mechanisms responsible for the relationship between resistin and smoking have not been found yet. Increased resistin levels following training programs may be attributed to the fact that people participating in these intensive programs used to lead inactive lifestyles before the programs started. Moreover, this study was carried out just to determine the effects of the training programs on serum resistin levels, because the participants did quit smoking. Therefore, the rise in resistin levels may have been due to the combination of intensive training programs and smoking during the duration of the programs. Another possible mechanism for the increased resistin levels in response to the training programs may be attributed to the role this hormone plays in the antioxidant defense systems in the human body, because this hypothesis was put forward that resistin responded as an antioxidant to inflammatory stimulants [23]. These increases in serum levels of resistin in response to training programs were also attributed to this possible mechanism in the study Rashid Lemir et al. conducted in 2011.\r\n','Hajirasouli Masoud, Hajirasouli Maral and Afsharmand Zohreh (2014). Effect of a Chronic Aerobic Training on Adipocytokine Resistin in Smokers. Biological Forum – An International Journal 6(2): 530-534.'),(4612,'120','Adipokine Resistin does not affect by Short Term Moderate Intensity Program in Obese Women','Husseini Masoomeh, Reza Behdari and Shahin Riyahi Malayeri','90 HUSSEINI MASOOMEH.pdf','',1,'Obesity has been related with metabolic abnormality and metabolic syndrome. The effect of short term aerobic training on serum resistin as inflammatory adipocytokine was investigated in obese female in present study. For this purpose, twenty four sedentary healthy obese females were participated in present study and divided into exercise (6 weeks aerobic training) or control groups by randomly. Pre and post training of serum resistin and anthropometrical markers were measured of two groups. Data was analyses by one way analysis variance. Serum resistin was positively correlated with abdominal obesity in studied subject at baseline (p = 0.039, r = 0.42) in studied subjects before exercise intervention. Despite improve in body weight and abdominal obesity, serum resistin concentration did not change significantly by training program compared to pre test (p = 0.931). Based on our finding and results of some previous studies, it seems that a weight loses at least 5 percent is necessary to improve adipocytokines in obese or related diseases.','Adipocytokine, obesity, Exercise, Inflammation','Obesity has been related with metabolic abnormality and metabolic syndrome. The effect of short term aerobic training on serum resistin as inflammatory adipocytokine was investigated in obese female in present study. For this purpose, twenty four sedentary healthy obese females were participated in present study and divided into exercise (6 weeks aerobic training) or control groups by randomly. Pre and post training of serum resistin and anthropometrical markers were measured of two groups. Data was analyses by one way analysis variance. Serum resistin was positively correlated with abdominal obesity in studied subject at baseline (p = 0.039, r = 0.42) in studied subjects before exercise intervention. Despite improve in body weight and abdominal obesity, serum resistin concentration did not change significantly by training program compared to pre test (p = 0.931). Based on our finding and results of some previous studies, it seems that a weight loses at least 5 percent is necessary to improve adipocytokines in obese or related diseases.','World Health Organization considers the rapid increase in the prevalence of obesity as an epidemic and identifies obesity and its complications as one of the major health problems in the world (1) So that diseases such as hyperglycemia, hypertension, atherosclerosis and heart disease are largely a consequence of obesity (2, 3).\r\nIt is now obvious that adipose tissue releases biologically active proteins, called Adipokines, spreading systemic inflammation in obese patients and associated diseases. Moreover, there is some evidence that adipocytes secrete a variety of protein signals such as inflammatory cytokines. The expression of various inflammatory genes, secreted from adipose tissue, is increased during obesity (4).\r\nAmong inflammatory mediators, it is a Resistin hormone secreted by adipose tissue that plays an important role in the regulation of energy homeostasis and metabolism. This inflammatory Adipokine with molecular weight of 12.5 kDa was discovered in 2001 (5). It secretes in adipocytes as well as muscle, pancreatic islet, human placenta and mononucleosis cells (6). It is of little expression in human adipose tissue, but it has more expression in the bone marrow, spleen, and placenta and lung tissue (6). Scientific resources supported the idea that Resistin levels are increased in the presence of obesity, indicating its direct relation with insulin resistance in obese people (7) and its role in metabolic disorders and chronic diseases caused by obesity (5, 8).\r\nHence, creating appropriate environmental solutions such as changing the patterns of dietary behaviors has been health science researchers\' primary goal to balance the levels of the peptide mediators in these individuals. On the other hand, as physical inactivity disrupts the systemic levels of this cytokines, obese people are often inactive, having a sedentary lifestyle. It is always thought that doing physical activities, whether short or long, and the resulted weight loss are somehow related to improvements of the cytokine levels in the obese patients and associated diseases. The findings are often contradictory in this regard, so that some studies have reported reduction (9) and some others have reported no change (10) of resistin and other Adipocytokines in response to a variety of training programs. Although most studies have attributed the contradictions in the findings to the differences in body weight changes, they considered the factors such as the type and intensity of the training program, gauges and the studied population to be effective in discrepancies between the findings. Based on these inconsistencies, the present study aimed to assess the effect of 6-week aerobic exercise on serum resistin levels in obese women.\r\nMATERIALS AND METHODS\r\nA. Human subjects and inclusion\r\nSubjects were twenty four non-trained healthy obese matched for age, 30-45 years, height 155-170 cm and BMI 30-36 kg/m2 that participated in this study by accessible samples. Subjects then divided into exercise or control groups by randomly. All participants of exercise group underwent a 6 weeks aerobic training program and control subject continued their daily activity.\r\nThe ethics approval was taken from Islamic Azad University of Iran ethical committee. After the nature of the study was explained in detail, informed consent was obtained from all participants. Participants were included if they had not been involved in regular physical activity/diet in the previous 6 months. All subjects were non-smokers and non-pregnancy. Those with type 2 diabetic and other chronic diseases were excluded from the study. \r\nB. Anthropometry\r\nEach subject’s body mass and height were measured. Weight was measured to the nearest 100 g using digital scales. Standing height was measured to the nearest 0.1 cm with the use of a wall-mounted stadiometer. Obesity was measured by body mass index (BMI). Percentage of body fat and visceral fat was estimated by bioelectrical impedance method (Omron Body Fat Analyzer, Finland). BMI was calculated as body mass (in kilograms) divided by height squared (in square meters). Waist-to-hip ratio was calculated as abdominal circumference divided by hip circumference as measured to the nearest 0.5 cm with a standard measuring tape. All of these measurements were conducted by the same researcher.\r\nC. Biochemistry and protocol\r\nBlood samples were collected from brachial vein in sitting position at the hormone laboratory after 10-12 hours overnight fast for measure serum resistin. Serum separated immediately after sampling and stored in – 80 centigrade until analysis was performed. Measurement of serum resistin was repeated at 48 hours after lasted session. \r\nAll subjects of exercise group participated in an aerobic exercise training intervention of 6 weeks in duration. Exercise sessions started by warm-up then a 30- to 40-min main exercise followed by a cooling-down period. Exercise consisted of treadmill walking or running performed for 30-45 minutes per day, on 3 days per week, at an intensity of 55-70 % of heart rate max. After the last training bout, subjects rested for 48 h, and then fasting serum resistin was measured. Control subjects were instructed to maintain their habitual activities.\r\nD. Data analysis\r\nStatistic analysis was done with SPSS 16.0 for Windows. After calculation of the mean and the standard deviation, normal distribution of data was analyzed by the Kolmogorov-Smirnov normality test. Comparisons between the means of each group were done using the independent t-test. Student’s paired ‘t’ test was applied to compare the pre and post training values. Statistical significance was accepted at p-value<0.05 or lower.\r\nRESULTS\r\nBaseline (pre-test) and post training resistin levels and anthropometrical indexes of two groups are shown in Table 1. Findings from independent t-test showed that serum resistin and anthropometrical indexes groups were not difference between two groups at baseline (p >0.05, Table 1). \r\n \r\n\r\nTo confirm of some previous studied that supports relationship between obesity and serum resistin, we also observed that serum resistin is positively related with abdominal obesity in studied subjects (p = 0.039, r = 0.42, Table 2, Fig 1). Compared to pre-training program, all anthropometrical markers decreased significantly by exercise training in exercise group (p < 0.05) but this variables was not changed in control subjects (p > 0.05) Serum resistin levels did not change after training when compared with pre-test in exercise group (p = 0.931, Fig 2). Serum resistin and all anthropometrical indexes did not change in control subjects (p ≥ 0.05). \r\nDISCUSSION\r\nAlthough several studies have pointed to the role of the lifestyle pattern and diet in obesity phenomenon, recent studies is focusing on the role of cytokines or inflammatory and anti-inflammatory mediators on the mechanisms, influencing the prevalence of obesity and obesity-related diseases. In this regard, several studies have done to improve the inflammatory factors in healthy or ill obese populations who the role of physical activity is prominent among them.\r\nDespite some evidence of anti-inflammatory effects of various training programs, the findings of this study suggest the lack of improvement in the inflammatory mediators in response to aerobic trainings in obese women. In other words, a 6-week aerobic training did not lead to changes in serum levels of resistin in obese women.\r\nResistin is a peptide mediator, secreted from adipose tissue and other tissues with inflammatory properties. Li, et al showed that obese mouse models have higher resistin levels, compared to their lean counterparts (11). On the other hand, studies have also indicated that higher levels of resistin are independent of obesity or insulin resistance (12, 13, 14). Some of the researchers have reported that its injection in the lean mice leads to increased insulin resistance, while its neutralization leads to improvement of insulin sensitivity in insulin- resisting mice (15). Studies on rodents show higher levels of resistin mRNA expression in abdominal fat stores than in thigh fat stores (16). It has been found that diabetic patients have higher levels of resistin with insulin resistance, compared with normal people (17).\r\nThe findings of a study showed a significant positive correlation between resistin and body and anthropometric composition variables such as body mass index, waist to hip ratio, body fat and assessing indices of such as insulin and glucose (18). Hence, it is thought that the weight loss or body fat reduction programs lead to decreased levels of resistin blood circulation. However, in the present study, the weight loss induced by exercise did not lead to any significant change in serum resistin levels in obese women. While 6 weeks of aerobic exercise decreased body weight, body mass index and body fat percentage of the studied obese women, the serum resistin levels were not significantly changed. No change in serum resistin in the presence of weight loss and body fat after exercise is somewhat controversial, because adipose tissues are the main sources of resistin secretion. \r\nSome studies have reported the lack of change in the resistin or other inflammatory and anti-inflammatory cytokines as a response to long-term training programs, hence supporting the findings of this study. For example, a 6-month change in the life style by combining diet and exercise did not lead to changes in serum resistin levels and some other cytokines such as leptin, adiponectin, Il-6 and TNF-α in women with metabolic syndrome (9). In this context, there are also some studies that have reported the lack of correlation between this inflammatory adipocytokine and body mass index in obese women (19). In another study, a non-significant and positive correlation between resistin levels and BMI was observed in healthy individuals (20). In support of these findings, Silha et al have also identified the lack of correlation between resistin and BMI in obese and lean individuals (21).\r\nHowever, 2 months of aerobic exercise led to the significant decrease in anthropometric indices, improving serum resistin in overweight men with type-2 diabetes (10). In this regard, although some studies have indicated that exercise-induced weight loss is necessary to improve the cytokine or other metabolites (22), some other studies have indicated that a minimum of ten percent weight loss in obese individuals is necessary to improve these variables (23). It should be noted that in this study, although the training program led to a significant reduction in body weight, this reduction was only about 2.5 percent of the individuals’ primary weight.\r\n','Husseini Masoomeh, Reza Behdari and Shahin Riyahi Malayeri (2014). Adipokine Resistin does not affect by Short Term Moderate Intensity Program in Obese Women. Biological Forum – An International Journal 6(2): 535-539. '),(4613,'120','Aerobic Training Program does not affect the Relationship between % VO2max and % HRR in Obese Individuals','Samarikhalaj Hamidreza, Khorshidi Davood and Eizadi Mojtaba','91 SAMARIKHALAJ HAMIDREZA.pdf','',1,'Exercise intensity is an important parameter for exercise prescription. The objective of present study was to compare the relationship of %VO2max with %HRR in adult obese men between before and after exercise training program. For this purpose, cardiorespiratory fitness (VO2max) was measured before and after three month aerobic training. The relation of %VO2max and % HRR was compared between pre and post training. Statistical analysis used by paired T-test and Pearson’s correlation coefficients. Aerobic program resulted in significant increase in VO2max in studied subjects (p < 0.01). A significant correlation was found between %VO2max with %HRR either before or after aerobic training program. Aerobic program did not affect the relationship between %VO2max and % HRR when compared with pre test. in conclusion, despite improved cardiorespiratory fitness, the relation between %VO2max and % HRR as two exercise intensity index does not affect by aerobic training intervention in obese subjects.','Exercise intensity, Aerobic training, Cardiorespiratory fitness','Exercise intensity is an important parameter for exercise prescription. The objective of present study was to compare the relationship of %VO2max with %HRR in adult obese men between before and after exercise training program. For this purpose, cardiorespiratory fitness (VO2max) was measured before and after three month aerobic training. The relation of %VO2max and % HRR was compared between pre and post training. Statistical analysis used by paired T-test and Pearson’s correlation coefficients. Aerobic program resulted in significant increase in VO2max in studied subjects (p < 0.01). A significant correlation was found between %VO2max with %HRR either before or after aerobic training program. Aerobic program did not affect the relationship between %VO2max and % HRR when compared with pre test. in conclusion, despite improved cardiorespiratory fitness, the relation between %VO2max and % HRR as two exercise intensity index does not affect by aerobic training intervention in obese subjects.','Heart rate is measured assuming its linear relationship with oxygen consumption. This phenomenon is used for recording and controlling the intensity of the exercise [1-3]. Therefore, the American College of Sports Medicine (ACSM) considered the percentage of heart rate reserve (%HRR) and %VO2max equivalent in the prediction of the exercise intensity. This has been supported by some researchers in the area of sport sciences. In addition, the balance between these two indices of workout intensity is gradually being supported in the majority of scientific studies, and even in rehabilitation programs, aiming for the improvement of cardiorespiratory fitness of patients. For example, findings\' of Van\'s study on the patients with chronic obstructive pulmonary disease, who had relatively low fitness, suggest almost similar values of % HRR and %VO2max [4]. Yet, Swain et al. have put that %HRR and %VO2max are equivalent in prescribing exercise intensity in people with lower physical fitness. In addition, compared to other methods, VO2R% provides people, especially those with low physical fitness, with more accurate exercise load. On the other hand, a study by Vala et al. suggests a significant non-linear relationship between cardiovascular variables (cardiac output, stroke volume, and heart rate) and VO2 in endurance athletes with average physical fitness [5]. These factors per se affect equivalence pattern of the exercise intensity indicators, in that some studies indicate inconsistency of these indicators [6-10]. However, some studies report a closer relationship of these indices in the people with high physical fitness. In this regard, Tollfree et al. reported a significant linear relationship (R = 0.99) between VO2-HR in elite athletes [11].\r\nIn addition, the initial investigations on the elderly who performed 6 months of aerobic exercises, leading to 18% increase in VO2max, showed a more closer correlation between %HRR and % VO2max [12]. A study by Jakicic also supports this theory [13]. Findings of Sterett et al. suggest that after the adjustment for age and physical fitness, heart rate is an accurate predictor for the assessment of oxygen consumption (VO2), which leads to increased overlap between exercise intensity indices [14]. These factors per se highlight the effect of physical fitness on the relationship between the indices of exercise intensity [1]. Yet, there are limited studies conducted to determine the effect of long-term workout programs, associated with VO2max increase, on the correlation between these workout indices. Therefore, the goal of this study is to determine the effect of an aerobic exercise course on VO2max level as a predictor of cardiorespiratory fitness, as well as its impact on the relationship between % VO2max and %HRR in non-athlete obese men.\r\nMETHOD AND SUBJECTS\r\nThirty four non-trained healthy obese men (aged 29 ± 7.14 years, body weight 102 ± 11 kg) were enrolled to participate in this study by accessible samples. The study protocol was approved by the Research Ethics Committee of Islamic Azad University, Saveh Branch. After the nature of the study was explained in detail, informed consent was obtained from all participants. Subjects were non-smoker and non-trained. Obesity was determined by BMI. Participants were included if they had not been involved in regular physical activity in the previous 6 months. Subjects with a history or clinical evidence of impaired fasting glucose or diabetes, recent myocardial infarction, active liver or kidney disease, the other chronic were excluded. \r\nA. Anthropometry\r\nAnthropometric measurements (body height and weight, abdominal and hip circumference) were performed with the subjects wearing light underwear and without shoes in the morning following a 10-h fast. The Body Mass index (BMI) was calculated using the formula body weight/height2 in terms of kg/m². Waist and hip circumferences were measured at the level of umbilicus and of trochanter major, respectively. Waist to hip circumference ratio was measured by dividing the abdominal circumference into that of the hip.\r\nB. Cardiorespiratory Fitness and exercise program\r\nBefore and after the 3-months intervention periods, all subjects performed a stepwise bicycle test on a bicycle ergometer for measure VO2max. Cycling test included 4 continues stage without rest between stages and each stage lasted 3 minute. In each stage, intensity was increased according to protocol guideline (Mullis et al., 1999). %VO2max and % HRR were calculated by two following formula:\r\n%VO2max = \r\n%HRR = \r\nThe exercise training intervention was designed to improve cardiopulmonary fitness. The exercise group trained three times per week for 12 weeks included running or cycling at a exercise intensity between 60 -80 (%) of maximal heart rate. Exercise duration began at 15 min for weeks 1–3, and then systematically increased by 5 min every 3 weeks thereafter to 30 min for weeks 9-12. Warm-up and cool-down periods were performed for 5 minute in each session. Exercise physiologists supervised the exercise sessions, and monitored heart rate. \r\nC. Statistical Analysis\r\nThe statistical analysis was run using the Statistical Package for the Social Sciences (SPSS, version 15.0). Kolmogorov-Smirnov test was used to determine of normal status of the data. Student’s paired ‘t’ test was applied to compare the pre and post training of anthropometrical markers and VO2max. Pearson’s correlation coefficient was used to determine the correlation between % VO2max and % HRR in obese subjects.\r\nRESULTS\r\nIn present study, we compared the relationship of %VO2max with %HRR in adult obese men between before and after exercise training program. \r\nBaseline (pre-training) and post training VO2max. levels and anthropometrical indexes of studied subjects are shown in Table 1. Participant characteristics are reported as means ± SD.\r\nAll anthropometrical markers decreased significantly by aerobic intervention in exercise group (p < 0.05) (Table 1). Exercise training program resulted in a significant increase in VO2max. when compared with baseline (p < 0.01, Fig. 1). \r\nBased on Pearson’s correlation coefficients, a significant correlation was found between % VO2max. with % HRR either before (Fig. 2) or after (Fig. 3) aerobic training program. But the relation between them didn’t affect between pre and post training (p > 0.05).\r\n \r\n\r\nDISCUSSION\r\nAlthough CSM has considered % HRR equivalent to VO2max for the determination of exercise intensity [6], Simons\' findings contradict it in patients with chronic obstructive pulmonary disease [16]. Some researchers as Swain et al. also have put that during cycle ergometer exercise, relative values of % HRR and VO2max are not equivalent [17]. Findings of similar studies are also heterogeneous and reciprocal [17-19]. In line with the mentioned studies, although the present research supports the statistical findings that maintain a significant, linear relationship between % VO2max and % HRR during cycling, it indicates increased heart rate during training in parallel with increased oxygen consumption. However, findings show that despite a significant linear relationship between them, the linear pattern of these variables and fit line are not match. In that, at every level of activity, values of % VO2max based exercise intensity are equal to the numerical values higher than % HRmax. \r\nTo prescribe exercise intensity to healthy people, %HRR is widely used, and in the majority of cases it is employed as the determinative factor of metabolic rate [20]. Since in the majority of no-laboratory cases, oxygen consumption (VO2) cannot be measured, heart rate measurements or % HRR method can be used for determining exercise intensity, assuming a linear relationship between the heart rate and oxygen consumption. However, in most of laboratory tests, the metabolic rate is determined by measuring oxygen consumption [6, 21]. Another method is the prescription of exercise intensity of % VO2max index [6]. \r\nIn adjusting %HRR and % VO2max values, numbers of factors, namely age, physical fitness, maximum or minimum exercise intensity, cardiovascular condition, and environmental temperature are influential [7, 8]. Research findings on the relationship between the indices of exercise intensity in different people vary based on the maturity level, maximum or minimum exercise intensity, cardiovascular condition, disease type, and especially physical fitness [10]. Reviewing research findings suggests that the majority of the mentioned studies have investigated and compared only the relationship between the given indices in a specific group of people, or only have sought the effect of physical fitness on the relationship of these indices in a specific group of athlete, non-athlete, or patients;\r\n \r\n in addition, there are limited numbers of studies that have investigated the mentioned objectives in a specific group of people whose physical fitness has been improved through exercise trainings within a certain time interval. Literature put that the lower is one’s cardiovascular or initial fitness, the greater is difference of these indices of exercise intensity; in that, improved cardiovascular fitness decreases the difference of those indices at every level or intensity of physical activity [12, 13]. \r\nIn this regard, some studies support a non-linear relationship between the cardiovascular variables and oxygen consumption rate in people with lower endurance fitness [5]. Moreover, a closer relationship between the indices of exercise intensity has been observed in athletes relative to non-athletes in some other studies [11]. In the present study too, three months of aerobic exercise significantly increased VO2max, as the determination index of cardiovascular fitness, in the investigated obese men. Thus, according to the mentioned evidence, it is expected that increased value of VO2max makes the relationship pattern of %HRR and % VO2max more similar. Despite what have been said, the findings of this study did not show any significant difference in the relationship between these exercise intensity indices from the pre- and post-test results. In fact, these findings indicate that although the three-month aerobic exercise program used in this study has significantly improved VO2max and resting and target exercise heart rates in the investigated obese people, this program did not cause any significant change in the relationship between exercise intensity indices in pre- and post-program conditions. Therefore, it seems that the effect of improved cardiovascular fitness on the relationship between the indices of exercise intensity is more related to the type of disease in the patient rather than healthy people\r\n','Samarikhalaj Hamidreza, Khorshidi Davood and Eizadi Mojtaba (2014). Aerobic Training Program does not affect the Relationship between % VO2max and % HRR in Obese Individuals. Biological Forum – An International Journal 6(2): 540-545. '),(4614,'120','Ethnomedicinal Documentation of Some Antidiabetic Plants used by Tribal’s of Amravati District, Maharashtra','A. P. Charjan* and D.K. Dabhadkar','92 A. P. CHARJAN AND K.M. KULKARNI.pdf','',1,'An ethnobotanical survey was conducted to collect information about medicinal plants used for the treatment of diabetics and associated complications by tribals in Amravati district. The indigenous knowledge of local traditional healers and native plants used for the treatment of diabetics related health disorders were collected through questionnaire and personal interviews. Extensive field survey of different parts of the district was made along with the local tribal villagers and ethnomedicinal/ayurvedic drug practitioner’s perusal of published literature and herbarium specimen of different herbaria of the district was done. The investigation revealed that, the traditional healers and the inhabitants use 13 species of plants distributed in 12 genera belonging to 11 families to treat diabetes and related complications. Results depict that fresh plant materials were invariably preferred for the treatment of long term complications associated with diabetics. Anti-diabetic medicinal plants used by tribals of Amravati district have been listed along with plant parts used.','Amravati, Ethnomedicine, Traditional Knowledge, Anti diabetic.','An ethnobotanical survey was conducted to collect information about medicinal plants used for the treatment of diabetics and associated complications by tribals in Amravati district. The indigenous knowledge of local traditional healers and native plants used for the treatment of diabetics related health disorders were collected through questionnaire and personal interviews. Extensive field survey of different parts of the district was made along with the local tribal villagers and ethnomedicinal/ayurvedic drug practitioner’s perusal of published literature and herbarium specimen of different herbaria of the district was done. The investigation revealed that, the traditional healers and the inhabitants use 13 species of plants distributed in 12 genera belonging to 11 families to treat diabetes and related complications. Results depict that fresh plant materials were invariably preferred for the treatment of long term complications associated with diabetics. Anti-diabetic medicinal plants used by tribals of Amravati district have been listed along with plant parts used.','Modern therapies are for too costly and also they are beyond the reacted of tribal people to be practice for the majority of diabetes refers, so the ethno-pharmacological use of herbal remedies for the treatment of diabetes is an area of study, which ripe with potential as a starting point in the development alternative, inexpensive therapies ,medicinal plant used to treat hypoglycaemic and hypoglycaemic condition are of considerable interest to ethno botanical community as they are recognized to contained valuable medicinal properties in different part of the plant (Ayyanar et al., 2008).\r\nDiabetes mellitus is one of the most common metabolic diseases in the world. It is a group of disorder that are associated with high blood sugar level which often leads to complications such as blindness, kidney failure ,coronary heart disease, circulatory problem and premature death. Medicinal plants used to treat diabetic condition are of considerable interest and a number of plants have shown varying degree of antidiabetes activity (Ayyanar et al., 2008).\r\nTraditional antidiabetic plants might provide a useful source of new oral hypoglycemic compounds for development as pharmaceutical entities, or as simple dietary adjuncts to existing therapies. Sulfonylureas and metformin are valuable treatments for hyperglycemia in non-insulin-dependent diabetes mellitus (NIDDM), but they are often unable to lower glucose concentrations to within the normal range, or to reinstate a normal pattern of glucose homeostasis (Bailey and Nattrass, 1988; Melander, 1988). Use of these therapies is restricted by their pharmacokinetic properties, secondary failure rates, and accompanying side effects (Bailey and Nattrass, 1988; Bailey et al., 1988). Whereas their modes of action partially compensate for the metabolic disturbances in diabetic states, they do not necessarily correct the fundamental biochemical lesions. Even insulin therapy does not reinstate a normal pattern of glucose homeostasis in most NIDDM patients, and overvigorous insulin treatment may carry an increased risk of atherogenesis and hypoglycemia (Bailey et al., 1988; Ginsberg and Rayfield, 1981; Peacock and TattersalI, 1984; Stout, 1987). Although an orally active botanical substitute for insulin seems unlikely, new molecules to stimulate endogenous insulin biosynthesis and secretion (and to promote insulin action) are realistic possibilities. This survey considers the current status of scientific and medical research in the use of traditional plant treatments for diabetes mellitus. Melghat sub-division of Amravati district (Maharashtra, India) comes under tribal sub-plan area. \r\n\r\nEntire area comes under category – I. i.e. where tribal population is over 50% Tribal sub-plan area extends over an area of 4212 sq.km out of which 77% area is under forest. There are 314 villages having about 80% population of tribals (Indurkar, 1993). Tribal population mainly includes tribal castes such as Korku, Bhil, Nihal, Gond, Balai, Gawali, Halbi and Wanjari. This tribal population of the area has been using various plants and their parts as medicine for the diabetes regulation. Unfortunately, the ethanobotanical enumerations for antidiabetes regulation was not recorded or documented for this region. Therefore, the present study is small effort to gain insight in the knowledge of traditional medicine of this region and also focus on the screening of some meaningful medicinal plants from this region and establishing their anti diabetes potentials.\r\nMETHODS AND \r\nThe Melghat region is entirely different from the rest of the districts with respect to climatology, agronomical and floristic point view. The northwestern compact blocks of forest, extending over 3,075 square km in the Amravati district of Barer (now a part of the Maharashtra state) is known as “Melghat”. It extends for about 65 km from North to South between latitudes 21° 46′ and 20° 11′ North and about 95 km from east to West between longitude 77° 34′ and 76° 38′ east. Melghat is situated in the mountainous region, the Gavilgarh hills of Satpuda from Chikhaldara and Dharni tahsils of Amravati district of Maharashtra state. This part of the Satpura is known as Melghat (Ingole and Kakade, 2011). Documentation of antidiabetic ethnomedicinal plants was carried out during the period from January 2013 to July 2014. Ethnomedicinal information of Melghat region was collected from tribal villagers and many ayurvedic or ethnomedicinal drugs practitioner. For a proper and orderly study, the study sites were selected considering the population and density of flora. The local informants selected were old persons from tribal villages, hakims, vaidhayas, gunias and ojhas, people working on field, experts in the field of herbal medicine and village formers who interacted for the study and documentation of their traditional knowledge of the plants used as antidiabetic agent. \r\nExtensive field survey of different parts of the Melghat region was made along with the local tribal villagers and ethnomedicinal / ayurvedic drug practitioners. Perusal of published literature and herbarium specimen of different herbaria of the district was done to document information following the methodology of Jain (1964, 1981); Chadwick and Marsh (1994); Martin (1995). Specimen were identified with the help of relevant scientific literature of Dhore and Joshi (1988).\r\nRESULTS AND DISCUSSION\r\nThe Melghat region of Amravati district has been widely acknowledged for its herbal treasure trove. The medicinal plants are used, as cheap and safe remedies for various ailments by tribals and aborigines. It is very essential to have a proper documentation of medicinal plants and to know their potential for the improvement of the health and hygiene through an eco friendly system. Thus importance should be given to the potentiality of ethnomedicinal studies as these can provide a very effective strategy for the discovery of useful medicinally active identity. A detailed and systemic study is required for identification, cataloging and documentation of plants, which may provide a meaningful way for the promotion of traditional knowledge of herbal medicinal plants. The present study revealed that the tribal aborigines of Amravati forest range have adequate ethanobotanical knowledge which has been transmitted from one generation to another. This study may focus researcher’s attention for phytochemical and pharmacological investigation of the above documented diabetic regulating plants and to know their efficacy on modern scientific lines for the validity of ethnobotanical claims and thus would be of great scientific contribution to the society. In the present study, information of medicinal plants with botanical name, local name, family, parts used, medicinal use and formulation is tabulated (Table 1). The present investigation revealed that 13 diabetes regulatory ethnomedicinal plants being commonly used by the tribals. Different plant parts such as the leaf, root, bark, tuber fruits and in some cases whole plants were freshly collected and used for making antidiabetic herbal formulations. It is reported that these were administered internally in the form of infusion, decoction, paste or powder. Plants and there parts were collected at any time of the year, depending on their seasonal availability and preferably in the morning. Informations gathered during this study are in agreement with the previous reports (Jain and Patole, 2001; Ignacimuthu et al., 2006; Modak et al, 2007; Ramya et al., 2008). \r\n\r\nPhytochemical analysis done in some of the surveyed plants indicated that the high content of total polyphenols in the test leaves might be related to the antidiabetic and antiperoxides effects of the experimental plants leaves (Parmar and Kar, 2007). \r\nThe various plants show antidiabetic activity. The pharmacological active ingredients are present in seeds, leaves and aerial parts of the plant Annona squamosa (Teonard et al., 2006). Some of the plants included in the present survey studies were phytochemically analysed and exponentially studied from the other areas\r\n (hypoglycemic and antidiabetic: Watt, 1992; antidiabetic and antiperoxide effects: Parmar and Kar 2007; increase uptake of glucose and enhanced glycogenesis: Purohit and Sharma, 2006).\r\n','A. P. Charjan* and D.K. Dabhadkar (2014). Ethnomedicinal Documentation of Some Antidiabetic Plants used by Tribal’s of Amravati District, Maharashtra. Biological Forum – An International Journal 6(2): 546-549.'),(4615,'127','Antimicrobial activity of Tropical Fruits','Anshika Malaviya and Neeraj Mishra','1 ANSHIKA.pdf','',1,'The present study was designated to study the antimicrobial activities of aqueous and\r\nalcohol extracts that were prepared from fresh fruits of Malus domestica, Punica granatum, Psidium\r\nguajava, and Citrus sinenses. The antimicrobial activities of the extracts were tested against bacteria\r\nand fungi by the use of agar well diffusion method. The aqueous extracts showed higher antimicrobial activity\r\nas compared to alcohol extracts. The aqueous extracts of M. domestica were most active against Candida albicans\r\nwith the (MIC = 1.2 cm) and inactive against gram negative bacteria Escherichia coli. Gram positive bacteria\r\nStaphylococcus aureus extracts were found to be most active for P. guajava and P. granatum with\r\n(MIC = 1.1 cm and 1.0 cm respectively), while the alcohol extract of M. domestica showed highes\r\nantimicrobial activity for gram positive bacteria Bacillus subtilis with (MIC = 0.8 cm) and no activity\r\nagainst gram negative bacteria Pseudomonas aeuroginosa. Similarly, P. guajava and C. sinensis showed no\r\nactivity against gram positive bacteria S. aureus.','Antibacterial, Antifungal activity, Malus domestica, Punica granatum, Psidium granatum, Citrus Sinensis.','The present study was designated to study the antimicrobial activities of aqueous and\r\nalcohol extracts that were prepared from fresh fruits of Malus domestica, Punica granatum, Psidium\r\nguajava, and Citrus sinenses. The antimicrobial activities of the extracts were tested against bacteria\r\nand fungi by the use of agar well diffusion method. The aqueous extracts showed higher antimicrobial activity\r\nas compared to alcohol extracts. The aqueous extracts of M. domestica were most active against Candida albicans\r\nwith the (MIC = 1.2 cm) and inactive against gram negative bacteria Escherichia coli. Gram positive bacteria\r\nStaphylococcus aureus extracts were found to be most active for P. guajava and P. granatum with\r\n(MIC = 1.1 cm and 1.0 cm respectively), while the alcohol extract of M. domestica showed highes\r\nantimicrobial activity for gram positive bacteria Bacillus subtilis with (MIC = 0.8 cm) and no activity\r\nagainst gram negative bacteria Pseudomonas aeuroginosa. Similarly, P. guajava and C. sinensis showed no\r\nactivity against gram positive bacteria S. aureus.','There has been renewed interest in screening high\r\nplants for novel biologically active compounds, particularly\r\nthose that effectively intervene the human ailments. There\r\nis a great demand of fruit juices in treatment of various\r\nillness such as arthritis, heart diseases and muscle aches\r\nand drug addiction (Tedesco et al., 2001). Even tens of\r\nthousands of antimicrobial compounds exist, the ability of\r\nmicrobes to develop resistance to even the most powerful\r\nantimicrobial compounds is amazingly rapid (Jayaraman\r\net. al., 2008).\r\nExtraction of bioactive molecules from medicinal\r\nplants facilitates pharmacological studies leading to a\r\nsynthesis of a more potent drug with a reduced toxicity\r\n(Beuchat et. al., 1994, Das et al., 1999). Plant based extracts\r\ncan be extracted from any part of plant like barks, leaves,\r\nfruits, seeds and fruit rinds etc. (Parekh and Chanda\r\n,2007).The activity of various fruit extracts have been tested\r\nagainst various microorganisms like bacteria and fungi\r\n(Silvia et al., 2004). Generally Gram negative bacteria are\r\nmore resistant than Gram positive bacteria (Rabe and\r\nStaden, 1997, Kelmanson et al., 2000, Parekh et. al., 2005).\r\nThe phytochemical composition varies greatly with the\r\ndifferent varieties of apples and there by helps in\r\ndeveloping new antimicrobials against various infectious\r\ndiseases (Bravo et al., 1998, Balakrishnan et. al., 2006,\r\nEberhardt et al., 2000). A different content in polyphenols\r\nwas also reported by (Florida et al., 2007, Kanner et. al.,\r\n1994). The detailed study of P. granatum activity against\r\nthree strains of E. coli O157: H7 and other strains of Shigalike\r\ntoxin producing strains including E. coli O026:\r\nH11, E. coli O011: NM, and E. coli O22. Both the\r\nminimum inhibitory concentration (MIC) and minimal\r\nbacterial concentration (MBC) of the ethyl acetate and nbutanol\r\nfractions from ethanolic extracts of P. granatum\r\npericarp were established (Piyawan et. al., 2005).\r\nFurthermore, its inhibitory activity against VT production\r\nby E. coli O157: H7 was investigated (Vasconcelos et. al.,\r\n2006).\r\nMedicinal uses of guava have been reported involving\r\ngastro enteroentritis, dysentery, wounds, ulcers, rheumatics\r\nand toothache (Rathore et. al., 1976). Antimicrobial\r\npotentiality of the P. guajava was investigated against a\r\nfew clinically isolated as well as standard microbial cultures.\r\nIn the present study P. guajava extracts in methanol (PME),\r\nacetone (PAE) and N, N- dimethylformamide (DMF) (PDE)\r\nwere investigated at two different concentrations for their\r\nantimicrobial potentiality against 91 clinically important\r\nmicrobial strains. PME-500 was active against 70% of the\r\ntotal gram-positive bacteria studied, while PAE-500 and PDE-\r\n500 were active against 80 and 50 percent of the studied\r\ngram-positive bacteria respectively (Walker et. al., 1994).\r\nAll the three extracts showed similar activity profiles\r\nagainst gram-negative bacterial strains studied. They were\r\nactive against 76.36% of the total gram negative bacteria\r\nstudied which included 73.68% Pseudomonas sp., 93.75%\r\nE. coli, and 83.33% Klebsiella sp. and 66.66% of Proteus\r\nsp. All of the extracts were inactive against one of the\r\nthree Citrobacter sp. and Alcaligenes fecalis, while they\r\nwere active against Salmonella typhimurium. The three\r\nextracts showed varying results against the fungal strains.\r\nPME-500 was active against 37.5%, PAE-500 was active\r\nBiological Forum — An International Journal, 3(1): 1-3(2011) ISSN : 0975-1130\r\n2 Malaviya and Mishra\r\nagainst 56.25% and PDE-500 was active against 31.25% of\r\nthe total fungal strains studied. Antimicrobial activity of\r\nguava juice extract against E. coli O517:H7 (Nair and\r\nChandra, 2007).\r\nMATERIALS AND METHODS\r\nTest organisms\r\nBacillus subtilis, Staphylococcus aureus,\r\nEscherichia Coli, Pseudomonas aeruginosa, Candida\r\nalbicans were tested for testing antimicrobial activity.\r\nPreparation of extracts\r\nThe method for preparing the extracts is adopted from\r\nClarkson and Bibby, 1969.\r\nWater extract\r\nThe fruit is cut and crushed till it attains a roughage\r\nstate. 5gm of the ground/crushed fresh fruit is mixed with\r\n100 ml of distilled water in a Sohxlet extraction apparatus\r\nfor 4 hrs at 100°C. Water extract is prepared after running\r\nthe extract in a Sohxlet.\r\nPreparation of alcohol extract\r\nThe fruit is cut and crushed to the roughage extent\r\nand 5gm of the crushed or ground fresh fruit is taken mixed\r\nwith 100 ml of absolute alcohol. The mixture is agitated at\r\nroom temperature for 8 hrs in a room wrist action\r\nshaker. The mixture is allowed to stand for 12 hrs\r\nand alcohol is evaporated without heat. The residue is\r\nthen mixed with 100 ml of distilled water at 80°C. Alcohol\r\nextract is prepared.\r\nAssessment of antimicrobial activity\r\nThe assessment techniques of antimicrobial properties\r\nused during the research work were taken from the papers\r\nof Micro dilution assay method by Barry et al,. 1981. Agar\r\nwell diffusion method by Arora and Kaur, 1999.\r\nRESULTS AND DISCUSSION\r\nWater extract of Malus domestica (apple) was found\r\nto be most effective against the fungal strain, C. albicans.\r\nThe inhibitory concentration was calculated to be as 1.2\r\ncm. Likewise, the water extract activity of Psidium guajava\r\n(guava) was calculated maximum against S. aureus as 1.1\r\ncm. Citrus sinensis (orange) water extract was found to be\r\nmost effective against S. aureus as 1.0 cm and the water\r\nextract of Punica granitum (pomegranate) was found to be\r\nmost effective against P. aeruginosa as 0.8 cm.','Anshika Malaviya and Neeraj Mishra (2011). Antimicrobial activity of Tropical Fruits. Biological Forum — An International Journal, 3(1): 1-3. '),(4616,'127','Seedling Growth of Maize (Zea mays L.) in Response to\r\nSeed Treatments','Motlalepula Pholo* and Christianah J. Seef Pretorius','2 PHOLO.pdf','',1,'Subsequent to seed germination, seedling establishment is a critical phase in the growth cycle of\r\nany crop, but more so for staple food crops such as maize. Treatment of seeds with the proper product offers\r\nan attractive approach in addressing both poor germination and seedling establishment. In this study the\r\ngermination and growth response of maize to plant growth regulators (ComCat® (CC), AnnGro™ and a prototype\r\nseed suspension (SS) from Lupinus albus), fertilizer products (Teprosyn®Zn/P, and Seniphos®) after seed\r\ntreatments were investigated under laboratory and glasshouse conditions. Untreated seed was used as negative\r\ncontrol. ComCat® at 25 mg kg–1 and SS at 12.5 mg kg–1 seed optimally stimulated seedling growth. Of the\r\nfertilizer products, Teprosyn® stimulated seedling growth while Seniphos® had no effect. However, Seniphos®\r\nin combination with CC showed a stimulatory effect. Moreover, addition of AnnGro™ to either Teprosyn®/CC\r\nand Teprosyn®/SS or Seniphos®/CC and Seniphos®/SS combination treatments enhanced root and coleoptile\r\ngrowth under glasshouse conditions.','Fertilizer products, maize, plant growth regulators, seed treatments, seedling growth.','Subsequent to seed germination, seedling establishment is a critical phase in the growth cycle of\r\nany crop, but more so for staple food crops such as maize. Treatment of seeds with the proper product offers\r\nan attractive approach in addressing both poor germination and seedling establishment. In this study the\r\ngermination and growth response of maize to plant growth regulators (ComCat® (CC), AnnGro™ and a prototype\r\nseed suspension (SS) from Lupinus albus), fertilizer products (Teprosyn®Zn/P, and Seniphos®) after seed\r\ntreatments were investigated under laboratory and glasshouse conditions. Untreated seed was used as negative\r\ncontrol. ComCat® at 25 mg kg–1 and SS at 12.5 mg kg–1 seed optimally stimulated seedling growth. Of the\r\nfertilizer products, Teprosyn® stimulated seedling growth while Seniphos® had no effect. However, Seniphos®\r\nin combination with CC showed a stimulatory effect. Moreover, addition of AnnGro™ to either Teprosyn®/CC\r\nand Teprosyn®/SS or Seniphos®/CC and Seniphos®/SS combination treatments enhanced root and coleoptile\r\ngrowth under glasshouse conditions.','Maize (Zea mays L.) is the most important grain crop\r\ngrown in South Africa. It is one of the most important crops\r\nin the milder subtropical and tropical regions of the world\r\n(Fertilizer Society of South Africa, 2007). It is grown under\r\ndiverse environmental conditions compared to other\r\nimportant grain crops such as wheat and rice (Du Plessis\r\n2003; Fertilizer Society of South Africa, 2007). In Africa one\r\nof the most important underlying factors to below average\r\nmaize yields is poor plant stands. This is closely related to\r\npoor seed germination and seedling establishment resulting\r\nfrom interaction with the environment and, in terms of food\r\nsecurity, this remains a concern. Poor or reduced seed\r\ngermination and crop establishment, leading to poor ultimate\r\ngrain yield, can be attributed to either low vigour seed or\r\nresult from biotic and abiotic stress conditions pertaining\r\nin a specific cultivation area (Kerr et al., 2007). As seed\r\ngermination and seedling establishment are the first critical\r\nstages in the life of any crop, a strong rationale exists to\r\nfocus on these initial stages in order to find solutions for\r\nthe underlying problem.\r\nTreating seeds with plant growth regulators offers an\r\nattractive approach in addressing poor germination and crop\r\nestablishment as a result of stressing environmental growing\r\nconditions (Basra et al., 1989). Treatment of seeds with a\r\nvariety of inorganic and/or organic compounds, some of\r\nwhich are synthetic, has been successfully demonstrated\r\nto improve germination and seedling establishment in seeds\r\nof many field crops such as wheat, soybean, sunflower\r\nand maize (Kaya et al., 2006). Inglis et al. (2004) concurred\r\nthat treatment of seeds with the right products has the\r\npotential to improve seedling emergence and establishment\r\nas well as plant stands. There are commercial available biostimulants\r\nand inorganic products claimed by the\r\nmanufactures that they play an important role in\r\ncomplementing varietal resistance. Bio-stimulants are nonfertilizer\r\nproducts which have a beneficial effect on plant\r\ngrowth. Gallant (2004) concurred that bio-stimulants are\r\nsubstances which are neither plant nutrients nor pesticides,\r\nbut rather are organic material that when applied in small\r\nquantities, enhances plant growth and development such\r\nthat the response cannot be attributed to application of\r\ntraditional plant nutrients. This gives an indication that biostimulants\r\noffer a significant opportunity for farmers in\r\nagriculture. In addition to bio-stimulants, there are products\r\nwhich consist of a mixture of macro and micro elements\r\nand they also play a pivotal role in plant morphological\r\nand physiological growth (Van der Watt, 2005).\r\nApart from poor or reduced seed germination and crop\r\nestablishment concern, more than a decade ago, Jacobsen\r\nand Backman (1993) expressed their concern about the use\r\nof synthetic chemicals in agriculture and the potential\r\nhazards associated with their use. This can probably be\r\nregarded as an echo of public concern in this regard. Hence,\r\nthere is elevated interest in finding alternative measures to\r\nmanipulate either seed germination or seedling growth or\r\nboth in an attempt to address both the plant stand problem\r\nand consumer concern: In this study the seedling growth\r\nresponse of a hybrid maize cultivar (DKC78-15Bt) was\r\nfollowed after treating seeds with a number of products,\r\nincluding plant growth regulators and fertilizer products that\r\nBiological Forum — An International Journal, 3(1): 4-9(2011) ISSN : 0975-1130\r\nPholo and Pretorius 5\r\nare either commercially available or in the prototype\r\ndevelopment phase. The principle aim was to identify the\r\nbest performing ones in terms of root and coleoptile growth\r\nunder laboratory conditions as well as below and above\r\nsoil biomass production under glasshouse conditions.\r\nMATERIALS AND METHODS\r\nCertified seed of a hybrid maize cultivar (DKC78-15Bt)\r\nwere commercially obtained from Monsanto, South Africa.\r\nChemical products used in this study were sourced from\r\ndifferent companies or institutions, viz. ComCat® (CC) and\r\nSeed Suspension (SS) from Agraforum SA Pty Ltd.,\r\nAnnGro™ from the University of the North West, South\r\nAfrica and Seniphos® and Teprosyn® Zn/P from Sidi Parani,\r\nSouth Africa, an affiliate of Yara. The chemicals were tested\r\nseparately and in concentration combination under both the\r\nlaboratory and glasshouse conditions during 2007/2008.\r\nSeed treatments\r\nFifty gram maize seed were pre-treated separately with\r\nthe different test products at either the concentration\r\nsuggested by the manufacturers or the optimum\r\nconcentration determined beforehand in the laboratory. In\r\nall cases the volume of product used to treat 50 g seed\r\nwas 1 ml (500 ml kg–1). The seed was placed in a small\r\nplastic bag, covered with the product and agitated\r\nrigorously for 1 minute. Subsequently, the treated seed was\r\nplaced on a sheet of filter paper and allowed to dry for 30\r\nminutes. The seedling growth response of maize to the\r\nfollowing seed treatments was quantified against an\r\nuntreated control (concentrations supplied in brackets):\r\n(a) Plant growth regulators:\r\n* ComCat® (CC) [0.5 mg L–1 (positive control suggested\r\nby manufacturers), 12.5, 25, 50, 100 and 200 mg kg–1 seed].\r\n* Lupinus albus Seed Suspension (SS) [5 mg kg–1 seed\r\n(positive control; Van der Watt (2005), 12.5, 25, 50, 100\r\nand 200 mg kg–1 seed].\r\n(b) Fertilizer products:\r\n* Teprosyn® Zn/P (8 ml kg–1 seed).\r\n* Seniphos® (4 ml kg–1 seed).\r\nAdditionally, AnnGro™ (an uptake enhancer) was tested\r\nseparately at 7.5 ml kg–1 seed and later added to specific\r\ncombination treatments.\r\nLaboratory growth medium experiment\r\nTwo sheets of special germination paper (30 × 30 cm)\r\nwere used to test the seedling growth response of maize\r\nseedlings after seeds were pre-treated with different\r\nproducts. A line, 10 cm from the top, was drawn on the\r\none sheet and 15 seeds spaced evenly on the line. A\r\nsecond sheet of germination paper was placed on top of\r\nthe first and moistened with distilled water. Both sheets of\r\npaper were rolled up together and longitudinally, placed\r\nupright in an Erlenmeyer flask containing 200 ml distilled\r\nwater and kept at 25°C in a growing chamber for 96h in the\r\ndark. Coleoptile and root lengths were measured after 96h\r\nof incubation using a digital caliper. All treatments were\r\nreplicated three times.\r\nGlasshouse seedling tray experiment\r\nPre-treated seeds (2 per hole) were planted in a growth\r\nmedium in seedling trays and kept at field capacity in a\r\nglasshouse. The glasshouse was set at ±26 ºC. Trays were\r\narranged in a complete randomized design and replicated\r\neight times. Three weeks after planting seedlings were\r\nremoved from the trays, root and above soil parts separated\r\nby means of a sharp knife and the fresh mass determined.\r\nAnalysis of variance (ANOVA) was performed on the\r\ndata, using the SAS statistical program to identify\r\ndifferences between treatments. Tukey LSD (least significant\r\ndifference) procedure for comparison of means was applied\r\nto separate means at the 5% (P < 0.05) probability level.\r\nTreatments differing significantly were indicated in tables\r\nboth as calculated LSD values and by using different letters.\r\nRESULTS AND DISCUSSIONS\r\nSeed vigour, or rather the lack of it, is a common\r\nproblem faced by seed merchants and crop producers alike.\r\nFor this reason seed coating by seed merchants with a\r\nvariety of fungicides, nutrients or other products has\r\nbecome common practice in order to ensure acceptable plant\r\nstands for most crops. However, fertilizer companies are\r\nconstantly in search for new alternatives or improved\r\nproducts. The main aim of the screening procedure followed\r\nin this study under laboratory and glasshouse conditions,\r\nin terms of the possible effect different seed treatments\r\nmight have on maize seedling growth, was to identify a)\r\nproducts with application potential in the agricultural\r\nindustry and b) products to be used as a premise for further\r\ninvestigation. Seedling growth in terms of root and\r\ncoleoptile growth during the screening phase in the\r\nlaboratory as well as in terms of above and below soil part\r\nfresh biomass production in the glasshouse revealed\r\ndifferent effects of various seed treatments on maize. These\r\ntreatments included commercial or prototype products in 2\r\ncategories namely plant growth regulators and inorganic\r\nfertilizer products.\r\nOf the two plant growth regulators (PGR\'s) tested,\r\nComCat® (CC) was a commercial and the Lupinus albus\r\nseed suspension (SS) a prototype product. ComCat®\r\nbelongs to a new generation of natural plant strengthening\r\nagents and is manufactured from plant extracts with biostimulatory\r\nproperties capable of regulating plant\r\ndevelopment. Active substances are obtained from natural\r\ndonor plants whose genetic potential has not been\r\ninfluenced by artificial breeding or genetic engineering. SS\r\nis a prototype seed suspension (SS) prepared by grinding\r\nLupinus albus L. seeds to a fine powder and extracting the\r\ncontents. SS has demonstrated to to induce root\r\n6 Pholo and Pretorius\r\ndevelopment in seedlings of selected agricultural crops, as\r\nwell as to improve the yield of these crops (Van der Watt,\r\n2005).\r\nTreating maize seeds with different ComCat® (CC)\r\nprior to subjecting them to a germination test in the\r\nlaboratory revealed induced root growth at the lower\r\nconcentrations in the range compared to the untreated\r\ncontrol (Table 1). Although not significantly different from\r\nthe control probably due to large standard deviations\r\nbetween replications, the 25 mg kg–1 application emerged\r\nas the optimum concentration. It contributed to an 18%\r\nincrease of root length growth in the laboratory, compared\r\nto the untreated control. Higher concentrations also\r\nenhanced the root growth although lower than the optimum.\r\nComCat® concentrations tested did not have a significant\r\neffect on coleoptile growth compared to the untreated\r\ncontrol and this was in concert with the claims made by\r\nthe manufacturers (Agraforum, 2006). The same tendency\r\nprevailed for maize seedling root growth under glasshouse\r\nconditions (Table 1) as it was for the laboratory conditions\r\nfrom seeds pre-treated with CC in a concentration range. In\r\nterms of root fresh mass production, again the 25 mg kg–1\r\nconcentration proved to be optimal while higher\r\nconcentrations in the range had an inhibiting effect. The\r\n21.4% root growth induction at this optimum concentration\r\nwas however not significantly different from the untreated\r\ncontrol. In contrast to observations under laboratory\r\nconditions, growth of the seedling above ground parts was\r\nsignificantly improved by seed pre-treatment with CC at 25\r\nand 50 mg kg–1 in the glasshouse, compared to untreated\r\ncontrol seeds. As the latter fresh mass was increased by\r\n15% and 23.1% respectively, it seems that the 50 mg kg–1\r\nCC concentration was more optimal for above soil part\r\ngrowth under glasshouse condition. In contrast to the\r\nfindings by Van der Watt (2005), both below and above\r\ngrowth was significantly inhibited by 12, 5 mg kg–1 CC\r\ncompared to untreated control. The author maintained that\r\nseed treatment with CC at a concentration of 0.5 mg L–1\r\noptimally stimulated seedling growth of other crops, mainly\r\nvegetables, in the laboratory. It therefore seems that maize\r\nseed reacted differently from vegetable seed to treatment\r\nwith CC. If it is considered that below and above soil part\r\nfresh mass was measured three weeks after planting while\r\ngrowth was measured over only 96 h in the laboratory,\r\nindications are that coleoptile growth is slightly delayed\r\nby pre-treatment of seeds with CC initially but accelarates\r\nwith time under glasshouse conditions. As CC contains both\r\nbrassinosteroids (BR\'s) and auxin (Agraforum, 2006) as\r\nactive compounds, it is most probably a synergystic effect\r\nbetween these two phytohormones that is responsible for\r\ninduced cell division, cell enlargement and cell elongation\r\n(Nithila et. al., 2007) leading to enhanced seedling growth.','Motlalepula Pholo* and Christianah J. Seef Pretorius (2011). Seedling Growth of Maize (Zea mays L.) in Response to Seed Treatments. Biological Forum — An International Journal, 3(1): 4-9. '),(4617,'127','Isolation and Characterization of Bacteriocin Producing Lactic Acid\r\nBacteria’s from Fermented Milk Products of Solan District of\r\nHimachal Pradesh','Amit Pratush , Anupama Gupta , I sha Mahajan , Mamta Sharma, J.K. Rana , Savita Kumari ,Richa Bhardwaj , Rupali M assey , Preet Lal and T.C. Bhalla','3 DR AMIT SHOOLINI.pdf','',1,'L actic acid bacter ia (LAB) i.e. Lactococcus AP-2 was isolated fr om the fer mented milk pr oducts\r\nof Solan dist r ict of H imachal Pr adesh. T he str ain was selected and scr eened for their ability to pr oduce\r\nbacter ioci n by agar well diffusion method using t he super natant of centr if uged test cultur e. T he isolate\r\nLactococcus AP-2 exhibited highest zone of inhibition against the indicator pathogenic str ains i.e. P. aeruginosa, S.\r\ndysentriae and S. aureus. The antimicrobial activity of Lactococcus AP-2 was fur ther char acterized for heat\r\nsensitivity, stor age stability, pH stability and effect of sur factant. T he bacteriocin produced by Lactococcus AP-2\r\nstable at low temper atur e i.e. up to 60°C for 72h and with the r ise in temperatur e its activity star t decr easing\r\nand above 60°C it becomes inactive. T he bacteriocin is stable at acidic pH conditions (i.e. 2-6) and can be used as\r\na potential biopr eser vative for the pr eser vation of acidic food mater ials.','Lacti c aci d bacteri a (LAB), Lactococcus AP-2, Bacterioci n, Biopreservati ve.','A new bacteri oci n produci ng l acti c aci d bacteri a i .e.\r\nLactococcus AP-2 is i solated and bacteri oci n produced from i\r\nt, is characterized. The bacteri oci n from this organism i s\r\nstable at l ow temperature (up to 72h) and at aci di c pH 2 to\r\n6 ther eby renderi ng i t to be used i n aci di c f oods as\r\nbiopreservati ve.','The fermented dai ry products consti tute a si gni f i cant\r\npart of human di et in vari ous parts of worl d. The fermented\r\nmi l k and mi lk products are generally produced by the lacti c\r\nacid bacteri a (L AB). The l acti c aci d bacteri a (L AB) are a\r\ngroup of Gram positi ve, non spore formi ng, cocci or rod\r\nshaped organi sms whi ch are consi dered as \'General l y\r\nRecogni zed as saf e\' (GRAS) organisms (Patil et al . 2010).\r\nLA B have been used as a f l avori ng and texturing agent\r\nas wel l as preservati ve i n f oods for centuri es and now are\r\nused as st art ers i n f ood f er mentati on (Capl i ce E and\r\nFitzgeral d GF, 1999). These organisms produce anti microbial\r\nmol ecules such as l acti c aci d, acetic acid, hydrogen peroxi de\r\nand bacteri oci n whi ch are wi del y known to i nhi bi t the\r\ngr owt h of f ood bor ne pat hogens and spoi l age\r\nmi croorgani sms (Pati l et al. 2010, Jeevaratnam et al . 2005).\r\nSi nce chemi cal pr eser vati v es are bei ng conti nuousl y\r\nquesti oned with regard of safety, the use of LAB and their\r\nmet abol i tes i s gener al l y accept ed by consumer s as\r\nsomething natural and heal th promoting. This offers a logical\r\nexpl anati on f or the non-reduci ng i nter est of the f ood\r\nscienti sts i n the parti cul ar area and the expanding trend of\r\nappl i cati ons of LA B i n the food i ndustry (Papagi anni and\r\nAnastasiadou, 2009). LA B f rom dif ferent sources have been\r\nconsi dered safe i n the form of food preservati ves, si nce\r\nthey can be degraded by gastroi ntesti nal protease (Fackl am\r\nand Elliott, 1995; Cl evel and et al . 2001).\r\nBacterioci n produced f rom the LAB i s extracel lul ar and\r\nbacteri ci dal i n nature (Patil et al . 2010). The bacteri oci n\r\nshowed its bacteri cidal ef fect agai nst most of gram posi ti ve\r\nbacteri a but i ts bacteri ci dal eff ect vari es f rom speci es to\r\nspecies (Jeevaratnam et al . 2005). LA B, Lactococcus l actis\r\nproduce nisi n, a commerci ally used biopreservati ve, whi ch\r\nshowed bacteri cidal eff ect against l arge number of gram\r\nposi tive organisms (Rodrui guez, 1996). Earl i er, L A Bs were\r\nisol ated f rom grains, dairy products, fermenting vegetabl es\r\nand meat products (Sharma and K apoor, 2004; Sharma et\r\nal . 2009; Adetunj i and A degoke, 2007 and Patil et al . 2010).\r\nI n t he pr esent st udy we r epor t the \'I sol at i on and\r\ncharacteri zati on of bacter i oci n produci ng L A B s f rom\r\nf ermented mi l k products of di stri ct Sol an of Hi machal\r\nPradesh. The bacteri oci n produced by i sol ated Lactococcus\r\nAP-2 exhi bited very good bacteri oci dal potenti al agai nst\r\nthe pathogeni c bacteri a.\r\nM AT ERI AL AND M ET H ODS\r\nChemicals. A nal yti cal grade chemi cals and dyes were\r\nobtained f rom Hi -medi a Laboratori es, Pvt. Ltd, I ndi a and\r\nSRL Indi a, respecti vel y.\r\nPr epar ation of L AB cultur e. L acti c aci d bacteri a\r\nproduci ng bacteri oci n were isol ated from fermented mi l k\r\nproducts (dahi , l assi etc.) from the di ff erent regi ons of Sol an\r\ndi stri ct of Hi machal Pradesh, Indi a.\r\nI ndicat or bact er ial st r ai ns. D i f f er ent i ndi cat or\r\npathogeni c bacteri al strai ns were col l ected f rom Department\r\nof Biotechnol ogy, Hi machal Pradesh Uni versi ty, Shi ml a. The\r\nindi cator strai ns used were Escherechia coli , Pseudomonas\r\naer ugi nosa, Shi gel l a dysenteri es, Stapyhl ococcus aur eus\r\nand Bacill us cerus.\r\n\r\nPr atush, Gupta, Mahaj an, Rana, Kumar i, Bhardwaj , Massey, Lal and Bhalla 11\r\nI solation and scr eening of L AB for antimicrobial\r\nactivity\r\nEl even sampl es of fermented mi l k products (dahi , l assi ,\r\netc.) were col lected from dif f erent areas of Sol an di stri ct of\r\nHi machal Pradesh in steril i zed vi als. One ml of respected\r\nsampl e was seriall y dil uted by using steril e saline sol ution.\r\nThe serial dil utions of the sampl e i n the seri es i .e. 10–1 ml\r\nto 10–6 ml were prepared. From each di luti on (i .e. 10–1 ml ,\r\n10–2 ml and 10–6); 100 μ l was spreaded on de M ann Rogosa\r\nSharpe agar (modif i ed M RS agar) plates and incubated f or\r\n48h at 30°C. Af ter suff i ci ent growth (af ter 48h) the sel ected\r\ncoloni es were successi vel y streaked on M RS agar pl ates\r\nf or puri ty.\r\nI dentification and characterization of LAB\r\nCol oni es wi th char acteri sti c f eatur es (such as pi n\r\npointed, whiti sh etc.) were randoml y sel ected from pl ates\r\nand tested f or Gram-stai n reaction, cell morphology, catal ase\r\nreacti on as di scussed by K andl er and Wei ss, (1986).\r\nProduction of crude bacteri oci n and detecti on of its\r\nanti mi crobi al acti vi ty\r\nAll the L AB strai ns were inoculated indi vi duall y in 1000\r\nml Elli ker\'s broth (pH 6.8) for 48h at 30°C in stati c i ncubator\r\nwi th seal ed pl ugs. For extracti on of bacteri oci n, a cel l-f ree\r\ncul ture supernatant was obtai ned af ter centri fugati on of\r\ncul ture broth (10,000 \'g\' f or 20 mi n at 4°C). A s the\r\nbacterioci n was produced extracel lul arl y, the pell ets were\r\ndi scarded and supernatant was adj usted to pH 7.0 by means\r\nof 1M NaOH to excl ude the anti mi crobial eff ect of organic\r\naci d, fol l owed by fil trati on of the supernatant through a\r\n0.22 μ m pore-si ze f il ter. The supernatant was assayed f or\r\npri mary anti mi crobi al acti vi ty agai nst i ndi cator bacteri al\r\nstrains. The antimi crobi al activi ty of the supernatant was\r\ndetermined by agar well diffusion assay (Kl aenhammer, 1988)\r\non M -H agar pl at es whi ch wer e spr eaded wi t h test\r\norgani sms. 100 μ l of supernatant was poured i nto wel l s\r\n(6 mm diameter) and the pl ates were incubated at 37°C f or\r\ngrowth of the test organi sm. A f ter 24h, the di ameters\r\n(mil l i meters) of the growth inhibiti on zones were measured.\r\nPar tial purification of bacteriocin\r\nThe bacteri oci n produced f rom the i sol ated LA B (i.e\r\nL act ococcus A P- 2) was par t i al l y pur i f i ed by usi ng\r\nAmmoni um sulphate preci pitation method (Ogunbanwo et\r\nal. 2003). The ammoni um sul fate precipitation tabl e (Scopes,\r\n1982) was f ol lowed to cal cul ate the requi red amount of\r\nammoni um sul f ate to be added i n cel l f ree ext ract.\r\nAmmoni um sul f ate was added wi th continuous sti rri ng until\r\nthe preci pi tates were f ormed and the preci pi tates were\r\nstored at 4°C f or 45 min. The preci pi tated proteins were\r\nrecovered by centri f ugati on at 10,000 g for 20 mi n and the\r\npel l et obtai ned was r esuspended i n 0.3 M (pH 7.0)\r\npotassi um phosphate buf f er. The protei n esti mati on was\r\ncarri ed out by foll owing the procedure of Bradford, (1976).\r\nAssay of the bacteri oci n acti vi ty was carri ed out at each\r\nstep i n both the precipi tate and supernatant to know whi ch\r\none actual l y contai ned the bacterioci n.\r\nCharacterization of partially purified bacter iocin\r\nThe crude bacterioci n sampl es were characteri zed by\r\nstudyi ng the eff ect of temperature, pH, storage stabi l ity,\r\ntreatment with surfactants and UV l ight on thei r acti vity.\r\nH eat r esistance: T he bacteri oci n was exposed to\r\nvarious temperatures: 30, 40, 50, 60, 80 and 121°C. An aliquot\r\nof each f racti on were removed af ter 30 mi n and then\r\nassayed f or bacterioci n acti vi ty using agar wel l di ffusi on\r\nmethod.\r\npH sensitivity: The bacteri oci n was adj usted to pH 2,\r\n3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9 and 10 with hydrochl ori c aci d (HCl) and\r\nsodi um hydr oxi de (NaOH), i ncubated f or 4h at room\r\ntemperature and assayed as descri bed above.\r\nStability of bacteriocin dur ing stor age: The bacteriocin\r\n(1ml) was stored at -20, 4, 37, 60, 80°C and room temperature\r\n(22°C). A t different ti me interval s, samples were taken f rom\r\nthe stored material s to determi ne bacterioci n acti vi ty.\r\nEffect of surfactant on bacter iocin activity: This was\r\ncarri ed out by incorporati ng non-ioni c (Tri ton X 100, Tween-\r\n80, Tween 20) surfactants. The surf actants were added to\r\nparti al ly puri f i ed bacteri oci n at a concentration of 0.1 ml of\r\nsurfactant per ml of bacteri oci n sol ution. Thei r preparati ons\r\nwere i ncubat ed at 30°C f or 60 mi n and assayed f or\r\nbacteri oci n acti vi ty agai nst i ndi cator organi sms.\r\nEffect of UV light on bacter iocin activity: The\r\nbacterioci n (1 ml) was pl aced in steril e microcentri fuge tube\r\nand exposed to UV l ight under l ami nar ai r flow. Ti me of\r\nexposure was 10 mi n, af ter that bacteri oci n acti vi ty was\r\nanal yzed by wel l diffusi on method.\r\nRESULT S\r\nI n the present study L acti c aci d bacteri a (L AB) from\r\nthe fermented mil k products from rural areas of Solan district\r\nof Himachal Pradesh were i solated. From el even f ermented\r\nmi l k samples onl y fi ve i sol ates were procured. A s most of\r\nthe spread plates showed si mi lar col oni es thereby i ndi cati ng\r\nthe presence of onl y one popul ati on of L AB. Onl y f i ve\r\ndi ff erent L AB col onies are i denti f i ed as Lactococcus sp.\r\nwhich were dif f erent from other L ABs on the basis of their\r\nphenotypi c characters, as gi ven i n Tabl e 1. These f i ve i\r\nsol ates have been characteri zed for their cel l morphol ogy,\r\nGram\'s reaction and catal ase acti vity. These col oni es on\r\nM RS Agar pl ates were of small si ze and mostl y l ooked li ke\r\nti ny dots. Al l the i sol ates were f ound to be gram +ve,\r\ncatal ase -ve, non-spore f ormi ng and spheri cal i n shape\r\n(except A P-4). These types of typi cal col oni es are formed\r\nby L AB (K andl er and Wei ss, 1986). The characteristi cs\r\nselected in present study are generall y used to characteri ze\r\nLA B (Sharpe et al . 1979).','Amit Pratush , Anupama Gupta , I sha Mahajan , Mamta Sharma, J.K. Rana , Savita Kumari ,Richa Bhardwaj , Rupali M assey , Preet Lal and T.C. Bhalla (2011). Isolation and Characterization of Bacteriocin Producing Lactic Acid Bacteria’s from Fermented Milk Products of Solan District of\r\nHimachal Pradesh. Biol ogi cal Forum — An International Journal, 3(1): 10-14. '),(4618,'127','Management of Intellectual Property Rights in India','Vedant Misra, Ajay Gaur, and Rajendra Songara','4 VEDANT MISHRA.pdf','',1,'The time for grasping knowledge has become an important parameter for determining the success\r\nof an institution, enterprise, government and industry; the shorter the time better are the chances of success.\r\nIntellectual property rights (IPR) have become important in the face of changing trade environment which is\r\ncharacterized by the following features namely global competition, high innovation risks, short product cycle,\r\nneed for rapid changes InTechnology, high investments in research and development (R&D), production and\r\nmarketing and need for highly skilled human resources. Geographical barriers to trade among nations are\r\ncollapsing due to globalization, a system of multilateral trade and a new emerging economic order. It is therefore\r\nquite obvious that the complexities of global trade would be on the increase as more and more variables are\r\nintroduced leading to uncertainties.','-','The time for grasping knowledge has become an important parameter for determining the success\r\nof an institution, enterprise, government and industry; the shorter the time better are the chances of success.\r\nIntellectual property rights (IPR) have become important in the face of changing trade environment which is\r\ncharacterized by the following features namely global competition, high innovation risks, short product cycle,\r\nneed for rapid changes InTechnology, high investments in research and development (R&D), production and\r\nmarketing and need for highly skilled human resources. Geographical barriers to trade among nations are\r\ncollapsing due to globalization, a system of multilateral trade and a new emerging economic order. It is therefore\r\nquite obvious that the complexities of global trade would be on the increase as more and more variables are\r\nintroduced leading to uncertainties.','Management of IPR in overtly funded institutions in\r\nIndia. Aims of funded institutions such as universities,\r\ncolleges, autonomous bodies\r\nand public sector undertakings are comprehensive and\r\nare not purely driven by economic consideration but they\r\nare primarily driven by considerations of social obligation\r\nand political On one side the above approach has helped\r\nus in creating a pool of highly educated population and\r\nalso building an inbuilt strength in research and development\r\nand core competency in basic industries like steel, power,\r\nfertilizers etc. However on the other side, an insulated\r\nsystem breeds satisfaction, which blunts the spirit of\r\ninnovation and fire for being ahead of others.\r\nGlobalization has taught us many new lessons by\r\nopening our eyes to the existing and\r\nforthcoming ground realities, which cannot be avoided\r\naway just because we do not happen to like them. The\r\nlikely impacts of globalization started becoming a part of\r\nour age old thought process and life style when India\r\ndecided to become a member of the World Trade\r\nOrganization. Although the beginning of 1990s new\r\napproaches started taking roots in respect of such\r\ninstitutions, especially related to their management and\r\nsource of funding. It has been observed that educational\r\nand R&D institutions are being asked to generate their own\r\nfunds and depend less and less on block grants by central\r\nor state governments. The Central Government was quick\r\nto understand the importance of innovations and new ideas\r\nfor adjusting to new streams of prototype shifts. The\r\nGovernment also realized that the journey is not going to\r\nbe smooth, easy or straight forward in the absence of\r\nknowledge about new paradigms among scientists,\r\ntechnologists and policy makers. January 1, 1995 came and\r\nbrought with it the full impact of WTO along with the\r\nAgreement of Trade Related Aspects of Intellectual Property\r\nRights (TRIPS). The Indian system rose to the new challenge\r\nand through its many efforts has taken successful steps\r\ntowards transition to a new culture by updating its existing\r\nlaws, enacting new legislations, instituting new mechanisms\r\nManagement of Intellectual Property Rights in India\r\nVedant Misra, Ajay Gaur, and Rajendra Songara\r\nSchool of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Jaipur National University, Jaipur (RJ)\r\n(Received, 5 Oct., 2010, Accepted 5 Dec., 2010)\r\nABSTRACT : The time for grasping knowledge has become an important parameter for determining the success\r\nof an institution, enterprise, government and industry; the shorter the time better are the chances of success.\r\nIntellectual property rights (IPR) have become important in the face of changing trade environment which is\r\ncharacterized by the following features namely global competition, high innovation risks, short product cycle,\r\nneed for rapid changes InTechnology, high investments in research and development (R&D), production and\r\nmarketing and need for highly skilled human resources. Geographical barriers to trade among nations are\r\ncollapsing due to globalization, a system of multilateral trade and a new emerging economic order. It is therefore\r\nquite obvious that the complexities of global trade would be on the increase as more and more variables are\r\nintroduced leading to uncertainties.\r\nBiological Forum — An International Journal, 3(1): 15-18(2011) ISSN : 0975-1130\r\nfor enabling creation of new intellectual property and its\r\nprotection and even evolving novel methods and schemes\r\nto promote innovations at grassroots levels. Managing\r\ncreativity within the innovation process is not easy.\r\nIndian R & D scenario. The national expenditure on\r\nResearch and Development (R&D) in India increased from\r\nRs. 8913.61 crores in 1996-97 to Rs. 12901.54 crores in\r\n1998-99. The projected R&D expenditure would reach to\r\nabout Rs. 15090.22 crores in 1999-2000 and Rs.\r\n17660.21crores in 2000-2001. The contribute to of the various\r\nsectors in the R&D expenditure in 1998-99 was - Central\r\nGovernment including public sector industry contributed\r\n67.5%, private sector 21.6%, State governments 8.0% and\r\nthe higher education sector 2.9%. Though in absolute terms\r\nthe R&D expenditure has shown an increasing trend, the\r\nR&D expenditure as a percentage of GNP has drift around\r\n0.8%. The projected R&D expenditure as percentage of GNP\r\nin 1999-2000 and 2000-2001 are 0.87% and 0.94%respectively.\r\nIt may be noted that in the coming years, the R&D expenses\r\nby the education sector is likely to go up as the academic\r\ninstitutions interact more and more with the industry and\r\nare thereby motivated to spend their own resources in R&D.\r\nThis trend will control more funds in R&D and improve the\r\nreturn from investment in R&D.\r\nThe national R&D expenditure by objectives in 1998-99\r\nwas in the following areas in order of the share of the\r\nexpenditure, agriculture forestry and fishing, defense, space,\r\npromotion of industrial development, development of health\r\nservices, energy, general advancement of knowledge,\r\ntransport and communication and environment. It may be\r\nnoted that majority of funding for R&D comes from the\r\nGovernment and is carried out in publicly funded institutions.\r\nTherefore the role of the government in capacity building in\r\nmanagement of IPR is fundamental and of highest\r\nimportance.\r\nCompetence building. Experts who have been involved\r\nin capacity building in different areas would agree that the\r\nexercise of capacity building is never monolithic in nature\r\n16 Misra, Gaur and Songara\r\nbut a multidimensional and complex activity. No exercise at\r\na national level can succeed if all or most players are not\r\nengaged in the activity. Intellectual Property Rights are often\r\nconsidered synonym of patents or at best patents, trademark\r\nand copyrights. This type of understanding or\r\nmisunderstanding maybe present elsewhere in the world.\r\nSometimes people even use the word \'patent\' as a substitute\r\nfor \'protect\'. Let\'s not forget that India is a big country and\r\nthe task of spreading literacy is gigantic Dissemination of\r\nnew knowledge is difficult and it cannot be disseminated in\r\na day or two; hence one should be prepared to work with\r\nlow success rates. At the same time the need to make efforts\r\nfor spreading correct literacy in a short period of time cannot\r\nbe overlooked.\r\nAwareness still remains an unfulfilled goal in spite of\r\nefforts made by so many agencies. There is a need to adopt\r\ndifferent means such as contact programmes, print media,\r\nbulletins, internet, videos etc. Awareness by itself is of little\r\nuse if the State does not create and provide suitable systems\r\nto enable scientists, technologists, industries and even the\r\nState to protect their rights. These means would be in terms\r\nof technical guidance, financial support, legal help and other\r\nfacilitation steps. If you teach scientists that novelty is one\r\nof the key factors for getting a patent and do not supply\r\nthem with adequate tools to determine if their inventions\r\nare novel or not, the awareness will have been of little value.\r\nUniversities in India are very poor and their management\r\nsystems are very old. Therefore, they need technical,\r\nfinancial and legal help to move ahead; someone has to\r\nhold their hands. Capacity building has to be multifaceted\r\nat the national level in order to move and remain ahead in\r\nthe knowledge race. Academic institutions, R&D institutions,\r\nindustries (goods and services), government departments\r\nand ministries (law making, regulating, providing funds and\r\nincentives for research etc) and other agencies, attorney\r\nfirms, courts and NGOs need to be enabled and empowered\r\nfor playing a constructive role in the process of capacity\r\nbuilding. Policy frameworks are essential in the national\r\ncontext to give the right impetus to the activities platform\r\nfor taking up future activities. Many of these issues have\r\nbeen addressed and addressed quite successfully in the last\r\nten years by different agencies of the government. While\r\ndepartments like Atomic Energy, Space and DRDO and\r\nagencies like CSIR have their in house system for looking\r\nafter their needs of IPR, There was no agency in the country\r\nin 1995, which could cut across departments and agencies\r\nand become a national nodal point for information and advice\r\non IPR.\r\nPatent Facilitating Centre (PFC). The Department of\r\nScience and Technology set up the Patent Facilitating Centre\r\nat the Technology Information Forecasting and Assessment\r\nCouncil (TIFAC) in 1995 as a small initiative to address the\r\nneed of awareness creation among scientists, helping them\r\nto protect their inventive and original work through IP laws\r\nand also act as a watch dog. The PFC came to be known\r\nfor its capability to raise issues and bringing new information\r\nand knowledge about IPR in public domain. Starting with\r\nthe revelation of the turmeric patent to the whole country, it\r\nbrought to notice many other patents using some of our\r\nwell known plants and traditional knowledge and, at times,\r\nclaiming what is already known in India. The days of Dunkel\r\nDraft on WTO became a history with PFC putting IPR\r\nmatters in public domain freely through its monthly IPR\r\nBulletin since November 1995 (now it is available on the\r\nnet). The readership of these bulletins is over 10000. These\r\nbulletins cover technical analysis of granted patents, case\r\nlaws, current global issues, IPR laws of India and other\r\ncountries, international treaties, analysis of patents tends,\r\ndomestic and international news and many other items of\r\ninterest to a wide variety of readers. The PFC has organized\r\n305 IPR awareness workshops all over the country\r\nindependently and also in association with Ministry of Small\r\nScale Industries, Department of Atomic Energy, Department\r\nof Space and ICMR. In the process almost 35000 scientists,\r\ntechnologists and policymakers have been sensitized from\r\nabout 500 universities, colleges and R&D institutions and\r\n800industries. The PFC has been organizing advanced level\r\nof training programmes with CII and attorney firms and also\r\nworkshops cum retreat on topics such as public private\r\npartnership in IPR management. It would be pertinent to\r\nmention at this point that the Ministry of Human Resource\r\nDevelopment (MHRD) has also been supporting workshops\r\non IPR. Further, the MHRD has created 11 IPR chairs in\r\nvarious IITS and universities. The Ministry of Commerce\r\nand Industry has also been conducting many seminars and\r\nworkshops on this topic for the last decade or so. As\r\nmentioned earlier, these efforts have to be supplemented\r\nwith some hardcore products and processes to lead to logical\r\nconclusions/ output. Indian patent data was not available\r\nin searchable digital form. People in the field realize that it\r\nis almost impossible to search for patents from the gazette.\r\nThe PFC brought out Ekaswa A and Ekaswa B databases\r\non the patent applications filed in India and the patent\r\napplications accepted by the Patent Office. These are\r\navailable on the internet as well and are being used\r\nextensively by industries.\r\nTwenty Patent Information Centre\'s (PIC) have been set\r\nup by the PFC in 20 States namely; Assam, Andhra Pradesh,\r\nChhattisgarh, Goa, Gujarat, Haryana, Himachal Pradesh,\r\nJammu and Kashmir, Karnataka, Kerala, Madhya Pradesh,\r\nManipur, Punjab, Rajasthan, Sikkim, TamilNadu, Tripura, Uttar\r\nPradesh, Uttaranchal and West Bengal. These PICs are\r\nhelping scientists, technologists and policy makers in their\r\nrespective States by creating awareness and extending help\r\nfor protecting their inventions. Some States as a result of\r\ncontinuous discussions have filed applications for\r\nregistration of some products as geographical indications;\r\nsome are also in the pipeline. Two PICs, namely, Punjab and\r\nWest Bengal, have also succeeded in introducing IPR\r\ncourses in technical institutions; other PICs are working hard\r\nMisra, Gaur and Songara 17\r\ntowards this goal. The PFC is the only window available in\r\nthe country, which provides full technical, legal and financial\r\nsupport for inventions emanating from educational\r\ninstitutions, including schools and colleges, and government\r\ndepartments. It has so far filed 260 patent applications in\r\nIndia and other countries from about 55 universities/\r\nacademic institutions and many of them have been granted.\r\nOther centres/chamber. Many government departments,\r\neducational institutions and PSU have started their IPR cells.\r\nProminent among the government departments/ agencies are\r\nDepartment of Biotechnology, Ministry ofTelecommunications\r\nand Information Technology, Indian Council of Medical\r\nResearch, Indian Council of Agricultural Research, ISRO,\r\nDepartment of Atomic Energy, Defense Research and\r\nDevelopment Organization and Indian Council of Forest\r\nResearch. IITs at Delhi, Mumbai, Kharagpur and Roorkee\r\nhave also set up their cells and evolved their IPR policies.\r\nAmong the PSUs, Indian Oil Corporation and Bharat Heavy\r\nElectricals Ltd. are worth mentioning. Among private\r\nindustries, there are many industries, which have started\r\ntheir own IPR cells and it may not be possible to list all of\r\nthem here. There is no doubt that private industries have\r\nresponded very well to the new IPR regime in terms offiling\r\npatent applications.\r\nFirst strategy Infiltration : Ministry of Science and\r\nTechnology issued the guidelines “Instructions for\r\nTechnology Transfer and Intellectual Property Rights” in\r\nMarch 2000, which would help in enhancing the motivation\r\nof scientists, research Institutions and universities in\r\nprojects funded by the Department of Science and\r\nTechnology, Department of Biotechnology, Department of\r\nScientific and Industrial Research and Department of Ocean\r\nDevelopment. The salient features of the guidelines are :\r\n1. Institutions shall be encouraged to seek protection of\r\nintellectual property rights in respect of the results of\r\nR&D. They may retain the ownership of such IPR. Here\r\nInstitutions\' mean any technical, scientific or academic\r\nestablishment where research is carried out through funding\r\nby the central and/or the state governments.\r\n2. The Institutions shall take necessary steps to\r\ncommercially exploit patents on exclusive or on nonexclusive\r\nbasis.\r\n3. The owner institution is permitted to retain the benefits\r\nand earnings generated out of the IPR. The institution\r\nmay determine the share of inventor(s) and other persons\r\nfrom such actual earnings. However, such share shall be\r\nlimited to one third of the actual earnings.\r\n4. IPR generated through joint research by institution(s) and\r\nindustrial concern(s) through joint efforts can be owned\r\njointly by them or as may be mutually agreed to by\r\nthem through a written agreement. The institution and\r\nindustrial concern may transfer the technology to a third\r\nparty for commercialization on exclusive / non-exclusive\r\nbasis.\r\nThe third party, exclusively licensed to market the innovation\r\nin India, must manufacture the product in India. The joint owners\r\nmay share the benefits and earnings arising out of commercial\r\nexploitation of the IPR.\r\n5. The owner institution shall set apart not less than 25%\r\nof the revenue generated from IPR to create a Patent\r\nFacilitating Fund which shall be utilized by the institution\r\nfor updating inventions, filing new patent applications\r\nand protecting IP rights against\r\nInfringement, and for building competency in the area of IPR\r\nand related issues.\r\n6. The Government shall have a royalty free license for the\r\nuse of the Intellectual property for the purposes of the\r\nGovernment of India. This is a major departure in the\r\napproach and policy towards managing inventions in India\r\nby the Ministry of Science and Technology. In order to\r\nhave a uniform policy of the government in this respect,\r\nit may be useful to have a suitable law in this regard. It\r\nis obvious that with more and more autonomy to research\r\ninstitutions in regard to IPR and technology transfer, these\r\ninstitutions, and the scientists working there, would have\r\nstronger motivation to invent products and processes,\r\nwhich are required by the market.\r\nInnovations related incentives. An innovative industry\r\nin India can gain competitive advantage in the market if it\r\ndevelops the necessary expertise and skills in developing\r\nand manufacturing new products, which are patented. For\r\nexample, the advantage of a three year excise duty exemption\r\nor exemption from Drugs Price Control Order may translate\r\ninto reserves / income which may offset the cost towards\r\nR&D. In order to promote R&D and innovation in Indian\r\nindustries, Government of India provides a number of fiscal\r\nincentives and support measures to industries. With\r\nincreasing public private partnership in technology\r\ndevelopment through schemes of Technology Development\r\nBoard, Drug and Pharmaceutical Board and NMILTI, the\r\nfollowing incentives would be extremely useful in promoting\r\nthe culture of innovation and intellectual property protection\r\nin industries and academic and R&D institutions.\r\n1. Excise duty waiver on patented products. All goods\r\nfalling under the Schedule to the Central Excise Tariff 1985\r\nare exempt from the excise duty for a period of 3 years from\r\nthe date of commencement of commercial production\r\nprovided such goods are manufactured by a wholly owned\r\nIndian company and such goods are designed and\r\ndeveloped by such Indian company and the goods so\r\ndesigned are patented in any two countries outside India\r\nnamely, USA, Japan and any country of the European Union.\r\nThe manufacturer, before commencing commercial production\r\nmust obtain a certificate from the Department of Scientific\r\nand Industrial Research for claiming the benefit.\r\n2. Exemption from Drug Price Control Order. Bulk\r\ndrugs produced based on indigenous R&D are exempt from\r\ndrug price control for a period of 5 years from the date of\r\ncommencement of commercial production provided that they\r\nare produced from the basic stage by a process of\r\nmanufacture developed by the unit through its own R&D\r\nefforts. In case of a drug, which has not been produced\r\nelsewhere, if developed and produced indigenously, it would\r\n18 Misra, Gaur and Songara\r\nbe placed outside the price control order for a period of 10\r\nyears from the date of commencement of commercial\r\nproduction. In order to establish that a processor a product\r\nhas been developed through indigenous R&D, novelty of\r\nthe process or product would have to be ensured. In other\r\nwords a patent would have to be necessarily obtained for\r\nclaiming the benefit.\r\n3. Weighted tax deduction on R&D expenditure.\r\nWeighted tax deduction @ 150% on R&D expenditure is\r\navailable to companies engaged in the business of\r\nbiotechnology, or the business of manufacture or production\r\nof drugs, pharmaceuticals, electronic equipment, computers,\r\ntelecommunication equipment, chemicals and manufacture of\r\naircraft and helicopters. The expenditure on scientific\r\nresearch in relation to drugs and pharmaceuticals, shall\r\ninclude expenditure incurred on clinical trials of drugs,\r\nobtaining approval from the regulatory authority under any\r\nCentral, State or provincial Act and the filing of a patent\r\napplication in India.\r\n4. Accelerated depreciation allowance. Depreciation\r\nallowance at a higher rate is available in respect of plant\r\nand machinery installed for manufacturing goods based on\r\nindigenous technology developed in recognized in house\r\nR&D units, Government R&D institutions, national\r\nlaboratories and Scientific and Industrial Organizations\r\n(SIRO). The present rate of depreciation for plant and\r\nmachinery is 40%as against 25% for other plants and\r\nmachinery.\r\n5. Tax holiday to R&D companies. Tax holiday is\r\navailable to approved companies engaged in scientific and\r\nindustrial R&D activities on commercial lines for ten\r\nconsecutive assessment years. This incentive is applicable\r\nto any commercial company that has its main objective and\r\nactivities in the area of scientific and industrial R&D. This\r\nwould be applicable to companies approved after March 31,\r\n2000 but before April 1, 2003.\r\n6. Income tax relief on R&D expenditure. Under\r\nSection 35(1)(i) of the Income Tax Act 1961, the revenue\r\nexpenditure on scientific research, by recognized R&D units,\r\non activities related to the business of the company is\r\nallowed full deduction. Under Section 35(1)(iv) expenses of\r\na capital nature could be deducted totally from the income\r\nof the year in which the expenses have been incurred.\r\n7. Tax deduction for sponsoring research. Section\r\n35(2AA) of the IT Act 1961 provides for a weighted tax\r\ndeduction of 125% for expenses on sponsoring research\r\nprogrammes at National laboratories functioning under\r\nICAR,CSIR, ICMR, DRDO, Department of Biotechnology,\r\nDepartment of Atomic Energy, Department of Electronics;\r\nIIT and universities.\r\nThe Science and Technology Policy 2003. The Science\r\nand Technology Policy released in 2003 is upbeat on\r\nintellectual property rights and related issues. It focuses a\r\ngreat deal on the transformation of new ideas into commercial\r\nsuccesses, which is considered vitally important to the\r\nnation’s ability to achieve high economic growth and global\r\ncompetitiveness. Accordingly, special emphasis will be given\r\nnot only to R&D and the technological factors of\r\ninnovations but also to the other equally important social,\r\ninstitutional and market factors. Value addition and creation\r\nof wealth through reassessment, redistribution and\r\nrepositioning of our intellectual, capital and material resource\r\nwill be achieved through effective use of science and\r\ntechnology. The Policy states that IPR has to be viewed,\r\nnot as a self contained and distinct domain, but rather as\r\nan effective policy instrument that would be relevant to wide\r\nranging socioeconomic, technological and political concepts.\r\nThe generation and protection of competitive intellectual\r\nproperty from Indian R&D programmes will be encouraged\r\nand promoted. The process of globalization is leading to\r\nsituations where collective knowledge of societies normally\r\nused for common good is converted to a proprietary\r\nknowledge for the commercial profit of a few. Action will be\r\ntaken to protect our indigenous knowledge systems, primarily\r\nthrough national policies, supplemented by supportive\r\ninternational action.\r\nOrganizations as associate organizations of universities\r\nand national laboratories to facilitate the transfer to industry,\r\nof the know how generated. The above action strategy has\r\nemerged from the following policy objectives:\r\n• To encourage research and innovation in areas of relevance\r\nfor the economy and the society, particularly by\r\npromoting close and productive interaction between private\r\nand public institutions in science and technology;\r\n• To establish an intellectual property rights regime, this\r\nmaximizes the incentives for the generation and protection\r\nof intellectual property by all types of inventors. The\r\nregime would also provide a strong, supportive and\r\ncomprehensive policy environment for speedy and\r\neffective domestic commercialization of such inventions\r\nso as to be maximal in the public interest and to promote\r\ninternational science and technology cooperation towards\r\nachieving the goals of national development and security,\r\nand makeit a key element of our international relations.\r\n• The Policy objectives in regard to intellectual property\r\nrights were formulated with the overall perspective that\r\nknowledge has become a source of economic might and\r\npower. This hassled to increased restrictions on sharing\r\nof knowledge, to new norms of intellectual property\r\nrights, and to global trade and technology control regimes.\r\nScientific and technological developments today also have\r\ndeep ethical, legal and social implications.','Vedant Misra, Ajay Gaur, and Rajendra Songara (2011). Management of Intellectual Property Rights in India. Biological Forum — An International Journal, 3(1): 15-18. '),(4619,'127','Pharmacognostical Studies of Vitex negundo Leaves','R.A. Ahirrao, M.R. Patel and D.M. Pokal','5 RA AHIRAO.pdf','',1,'Vitex negundo of family Verbenaceae is an attractive evergreen tree of subtropical and warm\r\nregion of India. The plant is known for its antibacterial, analgesic and anticonvulsant activities. The present\r\nwork attempts to summarize the leaf constant, microscopic and physical constants etc. of leaves of Vitex\r\nnegundo Linn.','Vitex negundo, Verbenaceae, Antibacterial, Analgesic and Anticonvulsant.','Vitex negundo of family Verbenaceae is an attractive evergreen tree of subtropical and warm\r\nregion of India. The plant is known for its antibacterial, analgesic and anticonvulsant activities. The present\r\nwork attempts to summarize the leaf constant, microscopic and physical constants etc. of leaves of Vitex\r\nnegundo Linn.','Vitex negundo Linn. (verbenaceae) is a woody, aromatic\r\nshrub growing to a small tree. It commonly bears tri- or\r\npenta-foliate leaves on quadrangular branches, which give\r\nrise to bluish-purple colored flowers in branched tomentose\r\ncymes. it thrives in humid places or along water courses in\r\nwastelands and mixed open forests and has been reported\r\nto occur in Afghanistan, India, Pakistan, Sri Lanka, Thailand,\r\nand Malaysia, (De Padua, 1999).\r\nThe leaves of vitex negundo Linn. contain hydroxy-\r\n3,6,7,3\', 4\'-pentamethoxyflavone 12, 6\'-p-hydroxybenzoyl\r\nmussaenosidic acid; 2\'-p-hydroxybenzoyl mussaenosidic acid\r\nSehgal et. al., 1982-83, 5, 3\'-dihydroxy-7,8,4\'\r\ntrimethoxyflavanone; 5, 3\'-dihydroxy-6, 7,\r\n4\'-trimethoxyflavanone (Achari et. al., 1984), angusid;\r\ncasticin; vitamin-C; nishindine; gluco-nonitol;\r\np-hydroxybenzoic acid; sitosterol (Khare, 2004). It is widely\r\nused in the indigenous system of medicine for its many\r\nmedicinal properties. VN has been extensively studied for\r\nits analgesic, anti-inflammatory (Telang et. al., 1999 and\r\nDharmasiri et. al., 2003) and antioxidant (Tiwari and Tripathi,\r\n2007).\r\nMATERIALS AND METHODS\r\nCollection of Plant Material\r\nThe leaves of Vitex negundo Linn. have been collected\r\nfrom the local area of Nandurbar (Maharashtra). The plant\r\nis authentify by Dr. Santosh Tayade, Dept. of Botany, Art\'s,\r\nScience and Commerce College, Lonkheda, Shahada, Dist-\r\nNandurbar (MS). The voucher specimen has been preserved\r\nin the laboratory for future reference.\r\nPharmacognostic Investigation of Leaves\r\nA. Determination of Physical Constants (Indian\r\nPharmacopoeia, 1996)\r\nThe physical constant like loss on drying, ash value\r\n(total ash, acid insoluble ash value) and extractive values\r\n(water soluble extractive and alcohol soluble extractive\r\nvalue) were determined Table 1.\r\nB. Determination of Leaf Constant (Kokate, 1994)\r\nThe leaf constant like Stomatal number, Stomatal Index,\r\nVein-Islet number, Vein termination number, Palisade cells\r\nnumber were determined.\r\nC. Determination of Microscopical Characters\r\nMicroscopic study of leaves was made on paraffin\r\nembedded specimen. The specimen was sectioned with the\r\nhelp of rotary microtome. The thickness of section was kept\r\n10-12 μm. Dewaxing of the section can be done by\r\ncustomary procedure (Johanson, 1940). The section was\r\nthen stained with toluidine blue (O’brien, 1964).\r\nRESULTS AND DISCUSSION\r\nThe Table 1 show the physical constants (% w/w) were\r\ndetermined. The loss on drying was found to be 3.1 %,\r\ntotal ash was found to be 5.20 % and acid insoluble ash\r\nvalue was found to be 1.06 %. The different extractive\r\nvalues such as water soluble extractive and alcohol soluble\r\nextractive value was found to be 11.5 % and 26.2 %\r\nrespectively.\r\nTable 1: Physicochemical Characters of Crude Drug\r\nVitex negundo Linn.\r\nS. No. Physicochemical Properties Result ( % w/w)\r\n1. Total Ash 5.20\r\n2. Acid-insoluble ash 1.06\r\n3. Loss on drying 3.1\r\n4. Alcohol-soluble Extractive 11.5\r\n5. Water-soluble Extractive 26.2\r\nThe Table 2 show the values of leaf constant such as\r\nStomatal number, Stomatal index, Vein-Islet number, Vein\r\ntermination number, Palisade cells number was found to be\r\n4, 1.5 - 2.8 - 4.3, 19 - 24, 8 - 13 and 1 : 5 respectively.\r\nISSN : 0975-1130\r\nBiological Forum — An International Journal, 3(1): 19-20(2011)\r\n20 Ahirrao, Patel and Pokal\r\nLeaf constants are fixed for all plant species, but they\r\nmay vary from species to species. Determination of leaf\r\nconstants is also one of the methods of standardization. It\r\nis helpful in identification of correct plant variety and also\r\nuseful in predicting adulteration.','R.A. Ahirrao, M.R. Patel and D.M. Pokal (2011). Pharmacognostical Studies of Vitex negundo Leaves. Biological Forum — An International Journal, 3(1): 19-20. '),(4620,'127','Studies on Lepidopterous Insects Associated with Vegetables in\r\nAravali Range, Rajasthan, India','Gaurav Sharma','6 GAURAV.pdf','',1,'The extensive studies on Lepidopterous insects associated with vegetables were conducted in\r\ndifferent localities of Aravalli Range of Rajasthan i.e. Mount Abu, Udaipur, Rajsamand, Puskar, Ajmer, Jaipur,\r\nSikar, Jhunjhunu, Sariska, Alwar, Dausa and Bharatpur during 2008-11. During present study 38 species of\r\nlepidopterous insects associated with vegetables in Aravalli Range of Rajasthan were recorded, out of 152\r\nspecies of lepidopterous insects recorded from India. The families Crambidae and Noctuidae were the dominant\r\nfamilies each represented by 8 species followed by Arctiidae having 4 species; Lycaenidae 3 species; then\r\nNolidae, Pieridae and Sphingidae each having 2 species and least by Cosmopterigidae, Gelechiidae, Geometridae,\r\nHesperiidae, Lymantriidae, Nymphalidae, Plutellidae, Pterophoridae and Saturniidae each having 1 species. On\r\nthe basis of nature of damage the lepidopterous insects were also categorized as leaf feeders, pod borers, fruit\r\nborers, defoliators and leaf rollers, bud borers and leaf webbers, cut worms, leaf miners and stem borers etc.\r\nThe salient details of their hosts, pest status or otherwise and their updated classification are provided.','Lepidopterous insects, Vegetables, pest status, Aravalli Range, Rajasthan.','The extensive studies on Lepidopterous insects associated with vegetables were conducted in\r\ndifferent localities of Aravalli Range of Rajasthan i.e. Mount Abu, Udaipur, Rajsamand, Puskar, Ajmer, Jaipur,\r\nSikar, Jhunjhunu, Sariska, Alwar, Dausa and Bharatpur during 2008-11. During present study 38 species of\r\nlepidopterous insects associated with vegetables in Aravalli Range of Rajasthan were recorded, out of 152\r\nspecies of lepidopterous insects recorded from India. The families Crambidae and Noctuidae were the dominant\r\nfamilies each represented by 8 species followed by Arctiidae having 4 species; Lycaenidae 3 species; then\r\nNolidae, Pieridae and Sphingidae each having 2 species and least by Cosmopterigidae, Gelechiidae, Geometridae,\r\nHesperiidae, Lymantriidae, Nymphalidae, Plutellidae, Pterophoridae and Saturniidae each having 1 species. On\r\nthe basis of nature of damage the lepidopterous insects were also categorized as leaf feeders, pod borers, fruit\r\nborers, defoliators and leaf rollers, bud borers and leaf webbers, cut worms, leaf miners and stem borers etc.\r\nThe salient details of their hosts, pest status or otherwise and their updated classification are provided.','India is the second largest producer of vegetables after\r\nChina, about 75 million tons. The existing area under\r\nvegetable cultivation in India is around 4.5 million ha.\r\nRajasthan\'s economy is primarily agricultural and pastoral.\r\nWheat and barley are cultivated over large areas, as are\r\npulses, sugarcane, and oilseeds. Cotton and tobacco are\r\ncash crops. Rajasthan is among the largest producers of\r\nedible oils in India and the second largest producer of\r\noilseeds. The Aravalli ranges constitute the most dominant\r\nhilly areas of Rajasthan. The ranges run diagonally across\r\nthe state from north-east Delhi to south-west upto the\r\nplains of Gujarat, covering a distance of about 690 Kms.\r\nThe highest peak of Rajasthan is Guru Shikhar in Mount\r\nAbu, rising to 1722 meters. The city of Udaipur with its\r\nlake lies on the south slope of the range in Rajasthan. The\r\nAravalli Range is the eroded stub of a range of ancient\r\nfolded mountains.\r\nVegetable crops occupy an important status in the\r\nagricultural economy and form an essential component of\r\nthe human diet especially in India and some South-East\r\nAsian countries, where sizable population basically consists\r\nof vegetarians. However, there are several factors that limits\r\nit\'s productively, mainly insect pests and diseases.\r\nVegetables are more prone to insect pests and diseases\r\nmainly due to their tenderness and softness as compared\r\nto other crops and virtual absence of resistance characters\r\nbecause of intensive hybrid cultivation. The insect pests\r\ninflict crop losses to the tune of 40 percent in vegetable\r\nproduction. Vegetable growers by and large depend on\r\nchemical pesticides to counter the problem of insect pests.\r\nIndiscriminate use of pesticides has led to severe ecological\r\nconsequences like destruction of natural enemies fauna,\r\neffect on non target organisms, residues in consumable\r\nproducts including packed pure and mineral water and\r\nultimately resistance to the pesticides, to which we solely\r\nrely. Biointensive pest management (BIPM) is the recent\r\ntrend in Indian farming and attracting the farmers for higher\r\nincome to their produce. This has resulted due to increased\r\nawareness among the end users and concerns about the\r\ndeteriorating ecological situations among the ecocampaigners.\r\nHence, a detailed study on the economically\r\nimportant pests of vegetables is essential to understand\r\ntheir weak points in life history that can be exploited in\r\ntheir management.\r\nPerusal of literature reveals that consolidated account\r\nis available on the Lepidopterous insects associated with\r\nvegetables in India by Lefroy, 1909; Fletcher, 1914, 1921;\r\nPradhan, 1969; Nair, 1970; Butani and Jotwani, 1984; Gupta,\r\n1990; David, 2001; Kumar et al., 2007, Sharma et al., 2008\r\nand Sharma and Ramamurthy, 2009 provided detailed\r\ninformation on the recorded 152 species of lepidopterous\r\ninsects associated with vegetables in India. In this paper\r\nan attempt has been made to provide the current status,\r\nannotated checklist of lepidopterous insects associated with\r\nvegetables in Aravalli Range, Rajasthan and details such\r\nas nature of damage, pest status/hosts, the updated\r\nclassification etc.\r\nMATERIALS AND METHODS\r\nThe adults of Lepidoptera were collected in the field\r\nwith aspirator, manually and aerial sweep net and at night\r\nwith the help of light traps of different light sources (ultra\r\nviolet, black light and mercury vapour light). The collected\r\nBiological Forum — An International Journal, 3(1): 21-26(2011) ISSN : 0975-1130\r\n22 Sharma\r\ninsects were killed by using tetrachloro ethane or ethyl\r\nacetate or benzene. These were stretched, pinned, labeled,\r\nidentified, preserved in the wooden collection boxes and\r\ndeposited in the National Zoological Collection of\r\nZoological Survey of India, Desert Regional Centre, Jodhpur.\r\nThe specimens collected from various localities were\r\nprocessed as per methodology discussed by workers such\r\nas Lindquist (1956), Tagestad (1974), Zimmerman (1978) and\r\nLandry and Landry (1994). For the taxonomic descriptions\r\nof various morphological characters, wing venation and\r\ngenitalia, Klots (1970), Zimmerman (1978) and Robinson\r\n(1994) were followed. The scientific names of insects\r\nupdated by consulting Fletcher, 1929, 1981; Fletcher and\r\nNye, 1982; Hampson, 1892, 1894, 1895, 1896; Heppner, 1998,\r\nHolloway et al., 1987; Meyrick, 1909-11, 1913-14; Nye and\r\nFletcher, 1985, 1991; Watson et al., 1980 and Lepindex of\r\nNatural History Museum, London website. In the field\r\nobservations and in the laboratory specimens were\r\nphotographed prior to studies, using a Nikon D70 and D90\r\nSLR Cameras with attachments.\r\nRESULTS AND DISCUSSION\r\nSurvey-cum-collection works on Lepidopterous insects\r\nassociated with vegetables were conducted in different\r\nlocalities of Aravalli Range of Rajasthan i.e. Mount Abu,\r\nUdaipur, Rajsamand, Puskar, Ajmer, Jaipur, Sikar, Jhunjhunu,\r\nSariska, Alwar, Dausa and Bharatpur during September, 2008\r\nto February, 2011. A checklist of Lepidopterous insects\r\nassociated with vegetables in Aravalli Range of Rajasthan\r\nprepared, which recorded 38 species belonging to 16 families\r\nof order Lepidoptera. The families Crambidae and Noctuidae\r\nwere the dominant families each represented by 8 species\r\nfollowed by Arctiidae having 4 species; Lycaenidae 3\r\nspecies; then Nolidae, Pieridae and Sphingidae each having\r\n2 species and least by Cosmopterigidae, Gelechiidae,\r\nGeometridae, Hesperiidae, Lymantriidae, Nymphalidae,\r\nPlutellidae, Pterophoridae and Saturniidae each having 1\r\nspecies (Table-1). On the basis of nature of damage the\r\nlepidopterous insects were also categorized as leaf feeders,\r\npod borers, fruit borers, defoliators and leaf rollers, bud\r\nborers and leaf webbers, cut worms, leaf miners and stem\r\nborers etc. In the checklist the families, genera and species\r\nare arranged alphabetically and the pest status (major/minor)\r\nand host range is according to the literature cited. In India\r\nthe research works of Lefroy, 1909; Fletcher, 1914, 1921;\r\nPradhan, 1969; Nair, 1970; Butani and Jotwani, 1984; Gupta,\r\n1990; David, 2001; Kumar et al., 2007; Sharma et al., 2008;\r\nSharma and Ramamurthy, 2009 provided valuable information\r\non lepidopterous pests of vegetables and in USA the work\r\nof Capinera, 2001 recorded lepidopterous pest on vegetables,\r\nwhich are globally distributed.\r\nThe present study provided the existing information\r\non lepidopterous insects associated with vegetables in\r\nAravalli Range of Rajasthan, so that it will helpful in\r\nplanning strategy for Integrated Pest Management programs\r\nto the control of vegetable pests and for the higher\r\nproductivity of vegetables.','Gaurav Sharma (2011). Studies on Lepidopterous Insects Associated with Vegetables in Aravali Range, Rajasthan, India. Biological Forum — An International Journal, 3(1): 21-26. '),(4621,'127','A New Species of Neotrichoporoides (Hymenoptera: Eulophidae) from\r\nUttarakhand (India)','Sandeep Kumar, B. Thangjam and M.A. Khan','7 SANDEEP.pdf','',1,'A new species Neotrichoporoides mani (Chalcidoidea: Eulophidae: Tetrastichinae) is described,\r\nillustrated and compared with an earlier Indian species N. viridimaculatus (Fullaway).','Hymenoptera, Chalcidoidea, Eulophidae, Tetrastichinae, Uttarakhand, India.','A new species Neotrichoporoides mani (Chalcidoidea: Eulophidae: Tetrastichinae) is described,\r\nillustrated and compared with an earlier Indian species N. viridimaculatus (Fullaway).','The Genus Neotrichoporoides was raised by Girault\r\nwith N. uniguttatus Girault as the type species from\r\nAustralia (Graham, 1987).Narendran et al. (2006) has\r\ndescribed 10 species including 6 new species and provided\r\na key to the Indian species of Neotrichoporoides.This\r\nGenus can be distinguished at once by the following key\r\ndiagnostic characters from all other members of the\r\nsubfamily Tetrastichinae; body length 1.7-3.3 mm; fore wing\r\nwith MV 6-9.5x longer than STV; axillae not very strongly\r\nadvanced; malar sulcus usually foveate below eye; sculpture\r\non propodeum stronger than sculpture on scutellum;\r\nanterior pair of scutellar setae at least slightly in front of\r\nmiddle and equidistant from submedian and sublateral lines\r\nor near the latter occasionally; propodeum with the raised\r\nlobe of callus partially cover the outer rim of spiracle; one\r\nof the cercal setae longer than others, often sinuate. The\r\nmembers of this genus are Parasitoids of Diptera (e.g.,\r\nDiposidae, Lanchaeidae and Muscidae) in stems of grasses\r\n(Boucek, 1988; LaSalle, 1994) and mainly occurred in old\r\nworld tropics and subtropics with one wide spread species\r\nNeotrichoporoides viridimaculatus (Fullaway) also known\r\nfrom North and South America (LaSalle, 1994).\r\nRESULTS AND DISCUSSION\r\nNeotrichoporoides mani sp.nov. (Figs.1-6)\r\nFemale: Body length about 1.9 mm; body colour\r\nbrownish black; head black and eyes reddish black;\r\nantennae brown ; thorax brownish black ,nonirridescent;\r\nwings hyaline; legs pale brown except coxae dark brown ;\r\ngaster black with reddish brown apical tip.\r\nHead (Fig. 1): Wider than long in frontal aspect\r\n(0.46:0.40), smooth and sparsely setose;frontovertex wide,\r\nwidth more than 1/2 the total head width (0.30 : 0.46); vertex\r\nsetae short and sparse; ocelli arranged in obtuse angled\r\ntriangle; POL slightly more than 1.5 times shorter than\r\nOOL(0.06:0.10); compound eyes bulged and smooth, eyes\r\norbits round, facets uniform in shape and size; antennal\r\ntoruli situated well above the lower level of eye margin,\r\nprominence between antennal toruli more than 1/5th the\r\nwidth of frons between eyes (0.05 : 0.266); malar sulcus\r\nstraight; malar space distinctly foveated just below the\r\nlower level of eye (Fig. 2), longer than eye width (0.14:0.95);\r\nlower margin of clypeus straight; occipital carina absent.\r\nAntennae (Fig. 1 and 3 ): hairy, 8 segmented excluding\r\n3 anelli,apical tip of antenna with small spicule,antennal\r\nformula 1, 1, 3, 3, 1; scape cylindrical, more than 3 times as\r\nlong as wide (0.183 : 0.053), pedicel with 4 long setae, more\r\nthan 1.5 times as long as wide (0.067 : 0.041 )and distinctly\r\nmore than 2.5 times shorter than FS1(0.175 : 0.067); funicle\r\n3 segmented, FS1 to FS3 gradually decreasing in length,\r\nFS1 more than 4 times as long as wide (0.175 : 0.041 ), FS2\r\na trifle less than 3 times as long as wide (0.145 : 0.050),FS3\r\nmore than almost 2 times as long as wide (0.12 : 0.06); club\r\nunsegmented, more than 3 times as long as wide\r\n(0.19:0.06),shorter than preceding two funicle segments\r\ncombined.\r\nThorax (Fig. 4): Pronotum with reticulated sculpture,\r\nits posterior margin with 3 pairs of setae, antero-lateral arms\r\nmoderately long, anterior margin concave in the\r\nmiddle;mesoscutum with fine sculpture and more than 1.5\r\ntimes as wide as long (0.340 : 0.205); mesoscutum having 2\r\npairs of adnotaular setae,notauli complete ,deep and\r\ngrooved, median longitudinal groove absent; axilla\r\nmoderately advanced; scutellum slightly convex with fine\r\nsculpture and longer than mesoscutum, less than 2 times\r\nas wide as long (0.400 : 0.225) with submedian longitudinal\r\ngrooves and 1 pairs of setae situated on the scutellum,\r\ngrooves deep and straight; dorsellum smooth;metanotum\r\nnarrow; propodeum with median carina and without\r\nparaspiracular carinae, propodeal spiracles round and\r\nmoderate in size, spiracle rim fully exposed .\r\nBiological Forum — An International Journal, 3(1): 27-28(2011) ISSN : 0975-1130\r\n28 Kumar, Thangjam and Khan\r\nFore wings (Fig. 5) Elongate in shape, more than 3\r\ntimes as long as wide (1.425:0.425 ), less than 1.5 times\r\nlonger than hind wing length, densely setose; costal cell\r\nmoderate in size and bare; SMV with 2 Setae directed\r\nupwards; MV bearing 10 long setae on front edge; PMV\r\nmore than 2 times shorter than SV(0.03 : 0.07); SV long\r\n(0.07) more than 1/5th of the length of MV (0.40 );basal\r\nvein with 3 setae, basal cell bare; speculum absent; cubital\r\nvein straight, subcubital line of hairs arising from the base\r\nof cubital vein.\r\nHind wings: slightly more than 7 times as long as wide\r\n(1.135 : 0.160) with acute apex; vein length (0.54) more than\r\none half the length of wing.\r\nGaster (Fig. 4): Elongate and compressed, more than 2\r\ntimes as long as wide (0.85 : 0.40), gaster surface\r\nsmooth, 1st gasteral tergum large in size,gasteral apical tip\r\nreddish brown and tapering;gaster sessile;metasoma 1.5\r\ntimes longer than mesosoma; ovipositor originated from the\r\nabove mid of gaster, ovipositor sheaths moderately exerted;\r\nfirst valvifers semicircular, (Fig.6); anterior margin of basal\r\npart of second valvifers curved; third valvulae not movably\r\narticulated with second valvifers, a trifle less than 5 times\r\nas long as wide (0.20 : 0.042 ), TV more than 1/3rd times\r\nthe length of SV (0.66 ); outer plates of ovipositor slightly\r\nlonger than second valvifers, with a ridge along basal half\r\nof dorsal margin (Fig. 6);cercal setae small.\r\nMale: Not known.\r\nHolotype: , India, U.K., Paurigarhwal, Host not known,\r\nsweepnet collection on natural vegetation , Sweepnet\r\ncollection,15.05.07 , Hym. Eulo. Nr 101 (Sandeep Kumar).\r\nParatype: 8 , same data as holotype Hym. Eulo Nr\r\n(Sandeep Kumar).\r\nRemarks: this new species is easily distinguished from\r\nthe related species N. viridimaculatus (Fullaway) by the\r\nfollowing key.\r\n1. Body yellow with characteristics patterns of metallic\r\ngreen or black markings which tend to form broken\r\nlongitudinal stripes; scape as long as or longer than eye;\r\nmarginal vein 8-9.5 × length of stigmal vein; submedian\r\nline of scutellum absent or faintly indicated in part, gaster\r\nslightly longer than head + mesosoma, 2.6-3 × as long as\r\nbroad.\r\n.... Neotrichoporoides viridimaculatus (Fullaway)\r\n* Body brownish black without any marking; scape\r\ndistinctly longer than eye; marginal vein almost 5.7 × length\r\nof stigmal vein; sub median line of scutellum prominent;\r\ngaster shorter than head + mesosoma; less than 2.5 × as\r\nlong as broad.','Sandeep Kumar, B. Thangjam and M.A. Khan (2011). A New Species of Neotrichoporoides (Hymenoptera: Eulophidae) from Uttarakhand (India). Biological Forum — An International Journal, 3(1): 27-28. '),(4622,'127','Uses of Wild Medicinal Herbs and Ecology of Gardens of District\r\nBhopal, Madhya Pradesh (India)','Kshipra Nag* and Zia-Ul Hasan','8 KSHIPRA NAG.pdf','',1,'A Study was conducted in gardens of Bhopal to find out the medicinal uses and relative\r\nfrequency of wild medicinal herbs. 20 quadrates were laid down and find out that Cyanadon dactylon (Linn.)\r\nPers and Euphorbia hirta Linn. were frequently available. A total of 23 species of wild plants were collected\r\nfrom two gardens of district Bhopal, in which 11 species were used medically by local people. Ethanomedicinal\r\ninformation was collected from local people as well as obtained from available literature. It was concluded from\r\nthis study that such type of research should be carried out in future for conservation and utilization of wild\r\nmedicinal herbs.','Wild plants, relative frequency, medicinal uses.','The relative frequency of wild medicinal herb like\r\nCynadon dictylon (Linn.) Pers. and Euphorbia hirta Linn.\r\nwas higher in both gardens. Eclipta prostrata Linn. was\r\ndominant in garden 1 and in garden 2.\r\nAltenanthera sessilis (Linn.) DC and Ageratum\r\nconyzoides Linn. were more dominant. Out of 23 studies\r\nwild herbs, 11 wild herbs are of medically important and\r\nused as a cure in many different diseases. There is a need,\r\nto create awareness of the importance of wild herbs among\r\nlocal people and to provide them guidance and training in\r\ncollection and processing to enhance their income.','Bhopal is the capital of Madhya Pradesh. It is a\r\nTropical region with moderate climate which provides\r\nsuitable atmosphere for growth of various plants. The city\r\nhas black cotton soil and laterite soil. The uses of wild\r\nplants are common among many people of the world. The\r\nWorld Health Organization (WHO) has estimated that up\r\nto 80 per cent of the world\'s populations rely on plants for\r\ntheir primary healthcare (Ramesh et al., 2008; Akaneme,\r\n2008).\r\nFrom the ancient time man has been using various\r\nplants to cure different diseases. In India many wild plants\r\nare available everywhere. Wild plants spread like wildfire\r\nand grow abundantly in the open spaces, roadsides and\r\ncrop fields etc. wild plants grow in all type weather\r\nconditions but winter and rainy season are most conducive\r\nfor the growth of plants. These wild plants would be great\r\nsource of herbal medicines. Very little ecological information\r\nexists on the Bhopal region. Such information is important\r\nto understand the ecology of the region. So it is necessary\r\nto work on ecological investigations as well as find out the\r\nmedicinal value of wild plants.\r\nMATERIAL AND METHODS\r\nStudy area\r\nThe study area lays 23°-16\' North Latitude and 77°-25\'\r\nEast longitude. The climate of the area is moderate and\r\npleasant. It provides a favorable atmosphere for the growth\r\ndevelopment of a variety of wild plants.\r\nSampling\r\nVegetation Analysis of two gardens was undertaken\r\nusing 10 quadrates in each garden. The standard quadrate\r\nsizes were 10 cm × 10 cm. Frequency of each species was\r\nanalyzed as suggested by Mishra (1968) and Kershaw (1973).\r\nThe Frequency of a plant species was determined with\r\nthe help of the following formula:\r\nFrequency\r\nTotal no. of quadrat in which the species occur 100\r\nTotal no. of quadrat studied\r\n= ×\r\nThe following formula was used for calculating relative\r\nfrequency of a plants species:\r\nRelative frequency of a species (%)\r\nFrequency of a species 100\r\nTotal frequency of all species\r\n= ×\r\nIn both the gardens plants species were collected,\r\nidentified with the help of available relevant literature and\r\nfloras (Bhattacharjee abd De, 2005; Grewal 2000;\r\nOommachan, 1977; Prajapati and Kumar, 2003; Dhiman,\r\n2006). Their specific medicinal value were verified with the\r\nknowledge of local people and also confirming the details\r\navailable in recent studies.(Husain et al., 2008 ; Tomar, 2008).\r\nRESULTS AND DISCUSSION\r\nMedicinal plants and their uses in the indigenous\r\nmedicine are well known to many Indian communities. The\r\nrecent trend has been to blend the traditional knowledge\r\nwith modern health care practices to provide effective health\r\ncare services to wider population. In addition to the\r\nrequirement for conservation of medicinal plants it has also\r\nbecome essential to protect and patent the traditional\r\nknowledge. ( Raghupathy, 2001).','Kshipra Nag* and Zia-Ul Hasan (2011). Uses of Wild Medicinal Herbs and Ecology of Gardens of District Bhopal, Madhya Pradesh (India). Biological Forum — An International Journal, 3(1): 29-31. '),(4623,'127','The Influence of Solar Terrestrial Effects on Light-Trap Catch of Night\r\nFlying Insects','László Nowinszky* and János Puskás','9 HUNGARY.pdf','',1,'The study revealed a correlation between the ionospheric storms (?Kf0F2) and light-trap catch of\r\ntwo winter geometrid moth (Operophthera brumata L. and Agriopis aurantiaria Hbn.). The efficiency of catching\r\nthe two species by light-trap decreases at the time of negative ionospheric storms and increases during positive\r\nones. The strengthening of atmospheric radio noises (SEA) increases the catch of the Turnip Moth\r\n(Agrotis segetum Den. et Schiff).','Ionospheric storms, atmospheric radio noises, light-trap, moths.','The study revealed a correlation between the ionospheric storms (?Kf0F2) and light-trap catch of\r\ntwo winter geometrid moth (Operophthera brumata L. and Agriopis aurantiaria Hbn.). The efficiency of catching\r\nthe two species by light-trap decreases at the time of negative ionospheric storms and increases during positive\r\nones. The strengthening of atmospheric radio noises (SEA) increases the catch of the Turnip Moth\r\n(Agrotis segetum Den. et Schiff).','Earth\'s atmosphere and life on Earth. As part of the global\r\nsolar activity, accompanied by intensive X-ray, gamma and\r\ncorpuscular radiation, outbreaks (flares) appear in the\r\nvicinity of the active regions on the surface of the Sun.\r\nReaching the Earth, and getting into interaction with its\r\nupper atmosphere, these flares change the existing\r\nelectromagnetic relations (Smith and Smith, 1963).\r\nThe daily activity of the flares is characterized by the\r\nso-called Q index that, used by several researchers,\r\nconsiders both the intensity and period of prevalence of\r\nthe flares. According to a verbal message by Tamer Ataç\r\n(Bogazici University, Kandilli Observatory and Earthquake\r\nResearch Institute, Istanbul) it is calculated with the\r\nfollowing formula:\r\nQ = (i × t)\r\nIn which i = flare intensity, t = period of prevalence.\r\nQ-index data, released with significant delay, are not\r\nreadily accessible for plant protection prognostics. To\r\novercome this disadvantage, we tried to establish a\r\nrelationship between the atmospheric radio noises (SEA)\r\nthat can be measured also by the people operating lighttraps\r\nand light-trap catch results (Nowinszky and Tóth,\r\n1994).\r\nSolar outbreaks are accompanied by intensive X-ray,\r\ngamma and corpuscular radiation that, reaching the Earth,\r\nget into interaction with the upper atmosphere and change\r\nelectromagnetic conditions (Smith and Smith, 1963). In the\r\ncourse of this electromagnetic storms might break out and\r\nthe ionization relations of the ionosphere might also\r\nundergo transformation.\r\nThe corpuscular radiation of the Sun leads to the\r\nformation of layers (ion concentration) at varying heights\r\nof the ionosphere parallel to the surface of the Earth. At\r\nthe temperate zone latitudes, there are three well discernible\r\nionospheric layers. Layers D and E are in the low regions\r\n(60-160 km) of the ionosphere while layer F is classed with\r\nthe high regions (160-250 km, even 1000 km at the time of\r\nbig storms). Layer F is split into two (F1 and F2) at daytime.\r\nAt night, layers D, E and F1 disintegrate, and only layer F2\r\nremains (Saikó, 1974). The ionospheric disturbances caused\r\nby corpuscular radiation appear during solar flares when\r\nthe Sun emits a vast amount of electrically charged and\r\nuncharged particles which entering the atmosphere of the\r\nEarth, change the conditions of the ionospheric layers. The\r\nchanges in layer F2 appear mainly in fluctuations of ion\r\ndensity and height. Ionospheric layer density is\r\ncharacterized by the boundary frequency of the given layer.\r\nWhen ionospheric recordings are made, impulses of\r\nradio waves of continuously growing frequency are emitted\r\ninto the atmosphere. The highest frequency reflected by\r\nthe layer under examination is called boundary frequency\r\n(f0F2). Influenced by the geomagnetic field, a change takes\r\nplace in the frequency and polarization of the radio wave\r\nemitted (Zeeman effect) which divides into two, sometime\r\nthree electromagnetic oscillations of different frequencies.\r\nThe component of a frequency identical to that of the\r\ngenerator is called regular frequency, marked f0 (Saikó, 1974).\r\nWe speak of an ionospheric storm when the boundary\r\nfrequency of layer F2(f0F2) in a given moment digresses at\r\nleast by 20% from the hourly median value of the given\r\npoint of time. After Saikó (1966) it is calculated like\r\n0 2 0 2\r\n0 2\r\n0 2\r\n100( med)\r\nmed\r\nf F f F\r\nf F\r\nf F\r\nAccording to Saikó\'s account (1969), Δf0F2 value trends\r\nwere examined simultaneously at six ionosphere observation\r\nstations. They were: Freiburg (48°03\' N, 07°35\' E), Pruhonice\r\n(49°59\' N, 14°33\' E), Belgrade (44°48\' N, 20°31\' E), Békéscsaba\r\n(46°40\' N, 21°11\' E), Dourbes (50°06\' N, 04° 36\' E), Juliusruh\r\n(54°38\' N, 13°23\' E). The examinations have clearly shown a\r\nBiological Forum — An International Journal, 3(1): 32-35(2011) ISSN : 0975-1130\r\nNowinszky and Puskás 33\r\nsud-den increase of the Δf0F2 value after the effect occurred\r\nat all six stations. This fact has lead to the conclusion that\r\nradiation from the flares can bring about ion condensation\r\nalso in the F2 layers over larger areas. Of the impacts of\r\nionospheric storms on the Earth, those influencing the\r\nweather have been subjected to closer investigation. In\r\nHungarian literature, Saikó\'s works (1963 and 1979) provide\r\ninformation on these. Research into disturbances that\r\nsuddenly make their presence felt in the lower ionosphere\r\nis of significance. Investigation is carried out first of all\r\nwith absorption measuring, as radio waves are greatly\r\nabsorbed in this layer.\r\nThe X-ray radiation of the flare at a wavelength of\r\nless than 1nm enhances the ionization of layer D positioned\r\nat a height of some 70-80 kilometres. This has two\r\nsimultaneous clear consequences. One is short wave\r\nfadeout (SWF). The other increased reflection of the extra\r\nlong radio waves. As a consequence, extra long wavelength\r\nradio noise can be observed permanently, caused by\r\nuninterrupted thunderstorms in the tropical zone. At times\r\nof ionospheric disturbances the radio noise is of essentially\r\ngreater intensity. About 8 minutes after the appearance of\r\na solar flare, atmospheric radio noise at 27 kHz (11 km\r\nwavelength) suddenly increases (Sudden Enhancement of\r\nAtmospherics = SEA). SWF and SEA both occur after every\r\nmajor flare proportionately with the growth of X-ray\r\nradiation. The first one kills short wave radio communication\r\nfor a few hours. At the same time, radio waves in the VHF\r\nband that under normal conditions find their way into\r\ncosmic space without running into any obstacle may now\r\nget reflected as a result of increased ionization of the upper\r\nlayers of the ionosphere, creating a situation in which will\r\nbe temporarily possible to receive the signals of distant TV\r\ntransmitters. Even when the sky is clouded, increased\r\natmospheric radio noise provides a clear indication of a\r\nmajor flare taking place on the surface of the Sun.\r\nFlares of importance one (they are relatively frequent)\r\nare followed by SEA in about 10% of all cases, this\r\nproportion is 50% in the case of flares of importance two,\r\nwhile the proportion is 90% in the case of the strongest\r\nflares, those of importance three. SEA can be observed by\r\nvery simple radio-technological equipment, even in cloudy\r\nweather, provides information easy to handle and is also\r\nsuitable for an indirect detection of flares (Del Vecchio,\r\n1959). Yet, easy as it is to perform, no SEA observation\r\nhas so far been carried out in Hungary.\r\nWe do not know of publications in either Hungarian or\r\ninternational literature examining the efficiency of collecting\r\ninsects by light-trap in relationship with ionospheric\r\ndisturbances or atmospheric radio noise. However, Becker\r\n(1964) and Damaschke and Becker (1964) established a\r\nnegative correlation between atmospheric radio noises and\r\nthe oxygen intake of termites. Later on, Becker and Gerisch\r\n(1977) could prove their effect also on the feeding activ-ity\r\nof termites.\r\nMATERIAL AND METHODS\r\nThe data we have needed for our calculations (border\r\nfrequency of the F2 layer of the iono-sphere (f0F2) and the\r\natmospheric radio noise at 27 kHz (SEA) were provided by\r\npublications released by the Panská Ves Observatory of\r\nthe Geophysics Research Institute of the Czechoslovak\r\nAcademy of Sciences. This observatory is about 25-30\r\nkilometres from Prague. In the view of Béla Szudár (Main\r\nMetorological Station, Békéscsaba), it is scientifically\r\njustified to cross-check the values measured there with those\r\nof the light-trap catches in Hungary (per-sonal\r\ncommunication).\r\nFrom the material of the national light-trap network we\r\ncompared the border frequency (f0F2) of layer F2 with the\r\ncatch data for Winter Moth (Operophthera brumata L.) and\r\nScarce Umber (Agriopis aurantiaria Hbn.) (Nowinszky et\r\nal.,1995). Data related to the former species come from the\r\nperiod between 1961 and 1976. We had at our disposal 3\r\n712 observation data of 46290 individuals from 18\r\nobservation sites over 837 nights. Regarding the latter\r\nspecies, we processed 1322 observation data of 8614\r\nindividuals collected at 44 observation stations over 403\r\nnights in the years 1962-1970.\r\nTo examine the effect of SEA we used data pertaining\r\nto turnip moth (Agrotis segetum Den. et Schiff.) from the\r\nmaterial of the Kecskemét fractionating light-trap and the\r\nnational light-trap network (Nowinszky et al., 1995). The\r\nnational light-trap network provided us with 20508\r\nobservation data on 32100 individuals collected by 61 lighttraps\r\nover 2647 nights between 1957 and 1976.\r\nUsing Saikó\'s method (1966), we calculated the\r\ndifference in the value of the boundary frequency (f0F2) of\r\nlayer F2 expressed in the percentage of the hour-median\r\n(Δf0F2) for each hour of each night of the collecting period.\r\nDifferences over 20% were considered as iono-spheric\r\nstorms. These were given, also after Saikó (1966), character\r\nnumbers (K) as follows: an observed storm of a negative\r\nor positive sign between 20-30% is listed in the 1st, between\r\n30-40% in the 2nd and above 40% in the 3rd class of\r\nintensity. The character numbers were summed up by nights\r\n(ΣKf0F2) and were then considered as independent variables.\r\nFrom the catching data of the examined species, relative\r\ncatch (RC) data were calculated for each observation posts\r\nand days. The RC is the quotient of the number of\r\nindividuals caught during a sampling time unit (1 night)\r\nper the average number of individuals of the same\r\ngeneration falling to the same time unit. In case of the\r\nexpected average individual number, the RC value is 1\r\n(Nowinszky, 2003).\r\nWe averaged by nights the relative catch values (RC)\r\nfrom the various observation sites then correlated these to\r\n34 Nowinszky and Puskás\r\nthe sum-totals of the character numbers. We arranged the\r\npairs of values in classes, and then averaged them. To\r\nreveal the assumed connection we made correlation\r\ncalculations.\r\nSEA nightly averages showed significant differences\r\nin the years between 1957-1976, therefore we expressed them\r\nin the percentage of the average of the swarming periods.\r\nWe arranged in classes the values gained in this way\r\ntogether with the related catch values, then averaged them\r\nand made correlation calculations. We correlated the hourly\r\ncatch data received from Kecskemét with the percentage\r\nvalues of the changes in SEA as compared to the previous\r\nhour, and then applied the procedure outlined above.\r\nRESULTS AND DISCUSSION\r\nThe relationship between the ΣKf0F2 and the light-trap\r\ncatch of the Winter Moth (Opero-phthera brumata L.) and\r\nthe Scarce Umber (Agriopis aurantiaria Hbn.) content the\r\nFig. 1 and Fig. 2. Fig. 3 shows the catching results of\r\nTurnip Moth (Agrotis segetum Den. et Schiff.) from the\r\ndata of national light-trap network depending on the SEA.\r\nThe same results seem from the data of Kecskemét\r\nfractionating light-trap in Fig. 4. Each figure also includes\r\nthe results of the calculations of significance.','László Nowinszky* and János Puskás (2011). The Influence of Solar Terrestrial Effects on Light-Trap Catch of Night Flying Insects. Biological Forum — An International Journal, 3(1): 32-35. '),(4624,'127','Taxonomy, Biology and Damage Status of Coneboret of Pinus\r\ngerardiana','Pawan Kumar* and Vikrant Kumar*','10 PAWAN.pdf','',1,'Cones of Pinus gerardiana are heavily attacked in the natural conditioned by a coneborer,\r\nDioryctria abietella (Lepidoptera: Pyralidae) which completes its life cycle inside the cone during cone development.\r\nThis lepidopteron species behaves differently during lab. And field conditions. Complete life cycle of the\r\nspecies in the field and laboratory conditions have been studied. Morphology, wing venation and genitalia have\r\nbeen studied to update the taxonomy of the species.','Biology, life cycle, Dioryctria.','Cones of Pinus gerardiana are heavily attacked in the natural conditioned by a coneborer,\r\nDioryctria abietella (Lepidoptera: Pyralidae) which completes its life cycle inside the cone during cone development.\r\nThis lepidopteron species behaves differently during lab. And field conditions. Complete life cycle of the\r\nspecies in the field and laboratory conditions have been studied. Morphology, wing venation and genitalia have\r\nbeen studied to update the taxonomy of the species.','Insects constitute one of major biological destructive\r\nagents in tree seed productivity. Cones and seeds of\r\nconiferous tree species are heavily attacked by coneworms,\r\nDioryctria abietella and Cateremna (Euzophera) Cedrella\r\n(Lepidoptera: Pyralidae) in western Himalaya (Thakur, 2000).\r\nDioryctria abietella is responsible for causing economic\r\nlosses in cones and seeds of various conifer species. In\r\nChilgoja pine, Singh and Bhandari (1986) reported almost\r\n100% attack at Kalpa, Himachal Pradesh. Rahman and\r\nChaudhry, (1987) reported the attack of Dioryctria\r\nabietella on the seeds of silver fir in Northwest Province\r\nof Pkistan.\r\nThe export of Chilgoja seeds contribute appreciably to\r\nthe annual income of the most of the families living in the\r\nareas of its distribution. In the district of Kinnaur alone,\r\nthe approximate value of export of its annual produce is\r\naround 18 crore of rupees in a year. But the cone and\r\nseeds are now being attacked by variety of insect-pests\r\nand pathogens causing degradation in the quality of seeds\r\nand even loss of seed crop.\r\nThe Pinus gerardiana Wall. 1832, commonly called as\r\nchilgoza pine, mostly grows in valleys at 2000-3350 m, amsl\r\nelevation (Farjon, 1984), in the dry temperate forest of the\r\ninner ranges of the Himalaya, where the summer monsoon\r\nis weak and precipitation, mostly in the form of snow, rarely\r\nexceeds 1000 mm per year. In these forests it occurs with\r\nCedrus deodara, Quercus spp. and Juniperus excelsa\r\n(Bhattacharyya et al., 1988). Female cones 12-20 cm long,\r\n10 cm wide when open, with wrinkled, reflexed apophyses\r\nand a umbo curved inward at the base. Seeds >2 cm long\r\nwith a rudimentary wing (Farjon 1984, Richardson and\r\nRundel 1998). Studies by Richardson and Rundel (1998)\r\nshows that harvest pressure because of economic benefits\r\nthat it provides; e.g., in a good year, about 13,000 indigenous\r\npeople in the Suleiman Mountains of Pakistan derive income\r\nfrom the nut harvest.\r\nThe most damaging seed and cone insects of pines\r\nare two seed-bugs (Leptoglossus corculus and Tetyra\r\nbipunctata) and five species of coneworms in the genus\r\nDioryctria. Other insect species that cause seed losses\r\ninclude the slash pine flower thrips (Gnophothrips fuscus),\r\npine seedworms (Cydia spp.), pine conelet looper (Nepytia\r\nsemiclusaria), cone borers (Eucosma spp.), cone beetles\r\n(Conophthorus spp.), and tip moths (Rhyacionia spp). Seed\r\nand cone insects occur throughout the known range of the\r\nhosts. Cone and seed insects limit the production of seed\r\nfor nursery stock. (Pruthi and Singh, 1950; Mathur et. al.\r\n1958; Coneway, 1975 and Bhandari, 1988).\r\nInsect damage varies greatly, depending on age, tree\r\nspecies, location, and insect control plan. On occasion,\r\norchards may lose their entire seed crop. Such damage could\r\nresult in repercussions for future production and revenue\r\nloss due to wasted time and effort spent on managing\r\norchard cone crops or collecting infested natural stand cone\r\ncrops. During the present study complete life cycle of the\r\nsconeborer in the field and lab. conditions have been\r\nstudied. Morphology, wing venation and genitalia have been\r\nstudied to update the taxonomy of the species.\r\nMaterial and Methods\r\nTo make observations on insect-pests and pathogens\r\nof cones and seeds survey tours were organized to the\r\nKinnaur and Six sites i.e.\r\n1. Pangi, 2750 m, Eastern, N 31°33\' 26.5\" E 078°15\' 38.5\"\r\n2. Labrang, 2915 m, Eastern, N31°35\'08.4\"E078°22\'48.2\"\r\n3. Jhangi (Akpa), 2742 m, Eastern N 31°35\' 23.9\" E\r\n078°25\' 51.0\"\r\n4. Kilba, 1894 m, Northern N 30°31\' 51.0\" E 078°08\' 46.8\"\r\n5. Akpa FRH 2503 m, Eastern N 31°35\' 19.5\" E 078°23\'\r\n32.0\"\r\nBiological Forum — An International Journal, 3(1): 36-40(2011) ISSN : 0975-1130\r\nKumar and Thakur 37\r\n6. Korathi 2753 m, Eastern N31°35\' 33.4\" E 078°25\' 34.0\"\r\nhave been included for study for carrying out survey,\r\nsample collection and observational activities on insect and\r\npathogens of the Chilgoza cone and seeds. These areas\r\nwere surveyed to assess the infestation of insect-pests and\r\npathogens on the cones and seeds of the Chilgoza pine.\r\nSamples were also collected from these sites.\r\nThe life cycle of the borer has been studied in the\r\nfield as well as lab. condition. The wing venation and\r\ngenitlia has been studied by following the methodologies\r\nadopted by Srivastava et. al. (2005, 2006), Kumar et. al.\r\n(2007) and Kumar and Thakur (2009).\r\nStudy sites of Chilgoza Pine in Kinnaur\r\nObservations and results\r\nDuring two years study on survey on insect pests and\r\npathogens of cone and seeds of Chilgoza, following\r\nobservations were made:\r\nStudies on cone Borer\r\nTaxonomic Classification\r\nGenus : Dioryctria Zeller, 1846. Isis, Leipzig 1846 : 732.\r\nStatus : Available Name Homonyms : 1\r\nHigher classification :\r\nPYRALOIDEA : PYRALIDAE : PHYCITINAE\r\nType-species :\r\nTinea abietella Denis & Schiffermüller, 1775 Ankündung\r\nsyst. Werkes. Schmett. Wienergegend: 138.\r\nType-species designation :\r\nBy subsequent designation by, Ragonot, 1893, in\r\nRomanoff, Mém. Lépid. 7 : 188\r\nDiagnostic feature of Coneborer\r\nMoth : The cone moth grey-fuscous, small forewing\r\npredominantly grayish with transverse zigzag band bordered\r\nby a dark brown margin hind wing uniformly grey and semi\r\nhyaline. Male as usual smaller than female body length 12-\r\n13 mm long with wing expanse 22-27mm while in female the\r\nbody length 13-14mm long with wing expanse 23-25mm.\r\nEggs : The eggs are oval flattened with rough surface\r\ncreamy whitish when freshly laid.\r\nLarva : The larva has five larval instars early immature\r\ninstars light brown with black head capsule becoming\r\nbrownish in successive larval stages. Mature larva 20mm\r\nlong.\r\nPupa : Pupa 10mm long obtect type reddish brown\r\nturning brownish towards the emergence time.\r\nLife History\r\nMating occur after midnight and last till early hour in\r\nmorning. The female moths start laying eggs after about\r\n12-14 hour of emergence. The eggs are laid singly in\r\ndepression of the scale of the young cone. More than one\r\neggs may be laid on a single cone Under captivity female\r\nmoth has been found to lay eggs on all the substrata i.e.\r\nNeedle, filter paper etc. the female moth lay eggs for 2-6\r\ndays @7-18 eggs per day. Total number of eggs laid by\r\nsingle female moth varies from 18-59 eggs. The incubation\r\nperiod varies from 3-7 days. The neonate larva hatches from\r\nthe eggs after cutting a hole on the surface of the eggs\r\nand start boring the cone through the scale. And gradually\r\nfeed on the tender tissue of the cone. Subsequent larval\r\nstages make a covering over it by fastening the seed with\r\nthe silken thread and keep on feeding on the seeds. The\r\nlarval period varies from 16-32 days. Pupation occurs in\r\nloosely woven papry silk cocoon in cone the fully grown\r\nlarva stop feeding and become inactive. It comes out on\r\nthe surface of the cone the larva make a cocoon with its\r\nfeacle matter and debris coated tissue material of cone the\r\nprepupal period last for 8-11 days and the pupal period\r\nlast for 8-17 days. The moth appears after mid summer and\r\nthe eggs are laid on cone and shoots of plants.\r\nLife cycle under Field Condition: Under Field Condition\r\nPests have 2 complete generations. Occurrence of various\r\nstages is as follow. Coarse frass without resin and some\r\nwebbing on the outside of cones indicate infestation by\r\ncone worms. The instars over winter as prepupa from 1st\r\nweek of September to May of the following year when the\r\ninsect resume feeding and pupae. Emergence of moth of\r\n2nd generation appear late in May when the fresh cone are\r\nin the process of development. The moth laid eggs on fresh\r\nyoung cone during 3rd week of May and the life cycle\r\nlasts till half of July. Life cycle from egg to adult varies 42-\r\n65 days.\r\nUnder Lab condition: Under lab condition 3 complete\r\ngenerations recorded. 1st Generation: The over wintering\r\nprepupae of previous generation resume feeding in Spring\r\n(March-April) and pupate during the Ist half of April. The\r\nAdult emerge late in the third week of April and lays eggs\r\n38 Kumar and Thakur\r\nby the end of April. The first generation last for 48-56 days.\r\nThe longevity of adult moth is about 7 days. 2nd\r\nGeneration: The moths of the Ist generation commence\r\nlaying of eggs some time during the 3rd week of June and\r\nthe adult appear during the 2nd week of August. The\r\nlength of life cycle varies from 51-60 days The adult\r\nlongevity recorded as 7 days. 3rd Generation: Laying of\r\neggs by moth of 2nd generation during the 2nd generation\r\nduring the 2nd week of august after the larval period of\r\nabout 3-4 week the pest enter prepupal stage and enter as\r\nprepupa from 2nd half of September to the April of next\r\nyear. The total over wintering period of pest varies from\r\n192-212 days. Some pupae instead of overwintering\r\nundergoes pupation and adult emerge in the last week of\r\nOctober but these adult do not mate if mate they fail to lay\r\nfertilized egg.','Pawan Kumar* and Vikrant Kumar (2011). Taxonomy, Biology and Damage Status of Coneboret of Pinus gerardiana. Biological Forum — An International Journal, 3(1): 36-40. '),(4625,'127','Population Density and Natural Enemies of Papiliopolytes polytes L.\r\n(Lepidoptera: Papilionidae)','S.M. Gaikwad, Y.S. Muniv, J.A. Chavan and G.P. Bhawane','11 DR GP BHAWANE.pdf','',1,'The eggs and pupae were parasitized by Trichogramma chilonis, Pteromalus puparum and Tachinid\r\nfly. The highest population density was recorded with an average of 25 larvae/curry leaf plant and 19.75 larvae/\r\nacid lime plant in the month of July. The lowest average of 1 larva/ curry leaf plant was recorded in April and\r\nMay and 1 larva/acid lime plant in March and April. The curry leaf plants are more infested by the pest P. p.\r\npolytes and its population was highest during rainy season followed by winter and summer. The study may be\r\nuseful in the formulation of control strategy of this pest.','Population, natural enemies, common mormon.','The eggs and pupae were parasitized by Trichogramma chilonis, Pteromalus puparum and Tachinid\r\nfly. The highest population density was recorded with an average of 25 larvae/curry leaf plant and 19.75 larvae/\r\nacid lime plant in the month of July. The lowest average of 1 larva/ curry leaf plant was recorded in April and\r\nMay and 1 larva/acid lime plant in March and April. The curry leaf plants are more infested by the pest P. p.\r\npolytes and its population was highest during rainy season followed by winter and summer. The study may be\r\nuseful in the formulation of control strategy of this pest.','Among the various insect pests that attack lemon, curry\r\nleaf, orange and other plants of rutaceae, the Papilio\r\npolytes polytes is a serious and regular pest (Wynter - Blyth\r\n1957; Antram 1986 and Gunnathigalraj 1998). The caterpillars\r\nfeed voraciously and cause extensive damage to nurseries\r\nand young seedlings. They are foliage feeders, prefer\r\nblossoms and young nurseries of citrus and curry leaf.\r\nSevere pest attack resulted in entire defoliation of the tree\r\nand leads to retardation of plant growth.\r\nDetermination of population dynamics is prerequisite\r\nfor the implementation of control strategy against certain\r\ninsects. Now days, pest population can be controlled by\r\nintroducing natural enemies of pest as biocontrol agents.\r\nBiological pest control method was first used by Chinese\r\nCitrus growers by introducing predatory ants (Liu, 1939).\r\nThe most common enemies of butterflies are lizards, birds,\r\nspiders and predatory insects in the earlier stages of its\r\nlife cycle and all stages of butterflies except the adult are\r\nattacked by parasitoids, mainly by Hymenoptera and Diptera\r\nreduces their population (Haribal, 1992). Information on the\r\npopulation density and natural enemies of P. p. polytes will\r\nbe useful to formulate effective management strategy\r\nagainst this pest. Therefore, the present study was\r\nundertaken.\r\nMATERIAL AND METHODS\r\nSurveys of natural enemies of the P. p. polytes were\r\ndone for a period of (2003-2006) in the laboratory and field.\r\nThe observations on population density were recorded in\r\nand around Kolhapur city, Maharashtra, India. Population\r\ndensity was determined on randomly selected plants of\r\ncurry leaf and acid lime (10 each) at weekly interval and\r\nrecorded on the basis of number of larvae per plant for a\r\nperiod of two years (2006-2007).\r\nRESULTS AND DISCUSSION\r\nNatural enemies\r\nDuring study (2003 - 2006), it was observed that the\r\nlife stages of P. p polytes were attacked by natural enemies.\r\nThe eggs were attacked by hymenopteran parasitoid\r\nTrichogramma chilonis and the average number of\r\nparasitoids per egg was 4. The pupa was also found\r\nparasitised by Pteromalus puparum (Fig. 1& 2). The average\r\nnumber of Pteromalus puparum parasitoids was 120 per\r\npupa. The puparium of Tachinid fly (Fig. 3 & 4) was also\r\nfound in the dissected pupa of P. p polytes along with\r\npupae of Pteromalus puparium.','S.M. Gaikwad, Y.S. Muniv, J.A. Chavan and G.P. Bhawane (2011). Population Density and Natural Enemies of Papiliopolytes polytes L.\r\n(Lepidoptera: Papilionidae). Biological Forum — An International Journal, 3(1): 41-43. '),(4626,'127','Fish Fauna of Sanjay Sagar Reseirvoir of District Guna (MP)','Pradeep Solanki, Shiv Singh, I.V. Sharma and R. Mathur','12 PRADEEP SOLANKI.pdf','',1,'The main aim of the present study was to investigate the species composition of Sanjay Sagar\r\nreservoir of Guna district. A limno-ichthyological study was conducted for one year (March 2007 to February\r\n2008) and various indigenous and commercial fishes of importance were found in this reservoir. The present\r\npaper deals with the variety and abundance of fresh water fishes of reservoir.','Sanjay Sagar reservoir, ichthyofauna, fishes.','The main aim of the present study was to investigate the species composition of Sanjay Sagar\r\nreservoir of Guna district. A limno-ichthyological study was conducted for one year (March 2007 to February\r\n2008) and various indigenous and commercial fishes of importance were found in this reservoir. The present\r\npaper deals with the variety and abundance of fresh water fishes of reservoir.','Fishes constitute economically vary important group\r\nof animals. The nutritional and medicinal value of fishes\r\nhas already been recognized (Hora and Pillay 1962, Mishra\r\n1956, Jhingran 1982). A number of large artificially\r\nconstructed fish water impoundments have come into\r\nexistence in India, especially during last four decades,\r\nadding considerably to the already existing rich water\r\npotential for the development of the country\'s fishery\r\nresources fish fauna of various reservoirs has been reported\r\nby Sharma et al (2004) and Jhingran (1982). The Sanjay\r\nSagar reservoir in Guna district, M.P. has been extensively\r\nused for Irrigation, drinking, bathing and fish culture.\r\nMATERIAL AND METHEDS\r\nSanjay Sagar reservoir is located in the Guna district,\r\nabout 50 Km. from Guna Township. The average rain fall of\r\nGuna is 910 mm. Sanjay Sagar reservoir is a medium\r\nirrigation reservoir constructed in 1982 with the help of\r\nWorld Bank Funding with a catchment area of 6973 heater.\r\nIt lies between latitude 24-22-30\" and longitude 77-14-30\"\r\nat an altitude of 480.05 meters above mean sea level. The\r\ndam is built across the reservoir is mainly use for irrigation,\r\ndrinking water and fish culture purposes.\r\nDuring the present study fishes were collected monthly\r\nfrom the Sanjay Sagar reservoir with the help of local\r\nfisherman fresh water fishes were brought to the laboratory\r\nand preserved in formlin solution. The identification of fish\r\nwas done with the help of standard keys and and books\r\n(Mishra 1956, Day 1978, Shrivastava 1992).','Pradeep Solanki, Shiv Singh, I.V. Sharma and R. Mathur (2011). Fish Fauna of Sanjay Sagar Reseirvoir of District Guna (MP). Biological Forum — An International Journal, 3(1): 44-45. '),(4627,'127','Life History and Diet Breadth of Apoderus tranquebaricus Fab.\r\n(Coleoptera: Attelabidae','A.B. Mamlayya, S.R. Aland, S.M. Gaikwad and G.P. Bhawane','13 G.P. Bhawane.pdf','',1,'The life history of Apoderus tranquebaricus Fab. was studied in the laboratory as well as in the\r\nfield conditions. The female prepares leaf cradles and lays the egg within. Preparation of leaf cradles is for the\r\nshelter and food for the young ones. It is a typical behavior of parental care. The incubation period was 3.5 ±\r\n0.26 days. The total larval period lasted for 25.5 ± 0.53 days. Pupal period lasted for 9.0 ± 0.29 days. The adult\r\nlongevity averaged for 5 ± 0.33 days. Attelabids feed on the wide range of plants. The host range study of A.\r\ntranquebaricus revealed that it develops on 8 plants in Amba forest. The host plants viz. Terminalia tomentosa,\r\nT. arjuna, Syzygium cumini, Aporosa lindliyana, Dimocarpus longan, Lagertsromia sp., Grewia sp. and Mamia\r\nsuriga. But Syzygium cumini, Dimocarpus longan, Terminalia tomentosa and Mammea suriga were the most preferred\r\nin the study region.','Attelabidae, Leaf roller, Forest, Nidus, Host range.','The life history of Apoderus tranquebaricus Fab. was studied in the laboratory as well as in the\r\nfield conditions. The female prepares leaf cradles and lays the egg within. Preparation of leaf cradles is for the\r\nshelter and food for the young ones. It is a typical behavior of parental care. The incubation period was 3.5 ±\r\n0.26 days. The total larval period lasted for 25.5 ± 0.53 days. Pupal period lasted for 9.0 ± 0.29 days. The adult\r\nlongevity averaged for 5 ± 0.33 days. Attelabids feed on the wide range of plants. The host range study of A.\r\ntranquebaricus revealed that it develops on 8 plants in Amba forest. The host plants viz. Terminalia tomentosa,\r\nT. arjuna, Syzygium cumini, Aporosa lindliyana, Dimocarpus longan, Lagertsromia sp., Grewia sp. and Mamia\r\nsuriga. But Syzygium cumini, Dimocarpus longan, Terminalia tomentosa and Mammea suriga were the most preferred\r\nin the study region.','Leaf-rolling weevils (Rhynchitidae and Attelabidae) are\r\nstrictly phytophagous species. The World fauna comprises\r\nabout 1110 species of Rhynchitidae and about 1000 species\r\nof Attelabidae (Legalov, 2007). Leaf-rolling weevils are a\r\nwidespread family of weevils. Attelabids are mainly\r\ndistributed in the tropical region and Manchuria subregion\r\nand scattered over the Palearctic region (Park et al, 2007).\r\nHomoeolabus analis (Illiger) is one of a large number of\r\nNew World and Old World leaf-rolling weevils in the family\r\nAttelabidae.\r\nThe leaf-rolling weevils present interesting examples of\r\ncomplex, genetically determined behaviors. The leaf roll of\r\nan attelabid is referred to as a nidus. It is commonly found\r\nin the florida. Another leaf-rolling attelabid, Attelabus\r\nbipustulatus Fabricius is sympatric with H. analis all the\r\nway through much of its sharing but has a some what\r\nmore northerly distribution and is not found in Florida (Vogt\r\n1992). There are four tribes which are known world wide.\r\nOf them three tribes comprising 18 species were reported\r\nfrom the Korea. (Bae, 1986). Louw (1990) studied the life\r\nhistory and immature stages of Brachycerus ornatus Drury.\r\nAttelabids show the typical parental behavior. After mating\r\nthe females construct typical attelabid brood rolls from the\r\nleaves of their host plant. (Zuppa et al., 1994). During the\r\npreparation of the nidus female roll the leaf and lay the\r\negg within and seals it. Entire development takes place\r\nwithin the nidus until the formation of adult. Park and Lee\r\n(2004a,b) described the immature stages of\r\nParacycnotrachelus longiceps Motschulskey and\r\nTomapoderus ruficollis Fab. from Korea. Apoderus notatus\r\nhas very wide range of host plants. It has been reported\r\nthat it develops on the 16 plant species. (FAO, 2007).\r\nLee (1992, 1996) added information to the comparative\r\nmorphology of the weevil larvae of Curculionidaea in Korea.\r\nLife History and Diet Breadth of Apoderus tranquebaricus Fab.\r\n(Coleoptera: Attelabidae)\r\nA.B. Mamlayya*, S.R. Aland*, S.M. Gaikwad* and G.P. Bhawane*\r\n*Department of Zoology, Shivaji University, Kolhapur, (MS)\r\n(Received 15 Feb., 2011 Accepted 15 March, 2011)\r\nABSTRACT : The life history of Apoderus tranquebaricus Fab. was studied in the laboratory as well as in the\r\nfield conditions. The female prepares leaf cradles and lays the egg within. Preparation of leaf cradles is for the\r\nshelter and food for the young ones. It is a typical behavior of parental care. The incubation period was 3.5 ±\r\n0.26 days. The total larval period lasted for 25.5 ± 0.53 days. Pupal period lasted for 9.0 ± 0.29 days. The adult\r\nlongevity averaged for 5 ± 0.33 days. Attelabids feed on the wide range of plants. The host range study of A.\r\ntranquebaricus revealed that it develops on 8 plants in Amba forest. The host plants viz. Terminalia tomentosa,\r\nT. arjuna, Syzygium cumini, Aporosa lindliyana, Dimocarpus longan, Lagertsromia sp., Grewia sp. and Mamia\r\nsuriga. But Syzygium cumini, Dimocarpus longan, Terminalia tomentosa and Mammea suriga were the most preferred\r\nin the study region.\r\nKeywords : Attelabidae, Leaf roller, Forest, Nidus, Host range.\r\nBiological Forum — An International Journal, 2(2): 46-48(2011) ISSN : 0975-1130\r\nOverall data reveals that most of the work on the attelabidae\r\nwas carried on the taxonomy, ecology and distribution of\r\nweevils. No comprehensive material is available on the life\r\nhistory and host range of Asian attelabids. Our study\r\npresents the observations on the life history and host plants\r\nApoderus tranquebaricus in Amba reserved forest.\r\nMATERIALS AND METHODS\r\nExtensive surveys were made to collect the leaf cradles\r\nand to study its host range from Amba Reserve Forest\r\nduring the year 2007 and 2008. Leaf cradles were collected\r\nfrom the S. cumini and brought to the laboratory. They\r\nwere kept in the cages for further study. Each nidus was\r\nexamined to get the details of developing stages. Field\r\nobservations were made in the months March to August at\r\nfortnight inteterval. After the emergence of adults, they are\r\nprovided with fresh twigs of S. cumini, the duration of\r\ndifferent stages and morphometric measurements of A.\r\ntranquebaricus were recorded.\r\nStudy Area\r\nAmba Reserved Forest\r\nAmba Reserved Forest (15°43\' to 17°10\' north and\r\nlongitude 73°40\' to 74°42\' east and 691.3 meters above Mean\r\nSea Level) is situated between North-West directions of\r\nKolhapur District. It is tropical semi evergreen forest of\r\nWestern Ghats. The geographical area is 318.16 ha. The\r\naverage annual rainfall is 6000 mm. Temperature of this\r\nregion during summer, winter and Rainy Season ranges from\r\n25-38°C, 10-30°C and 15-30°C respectively. Red brown soil\r\nis observed in the study region.\r\nRESULTS AND DISCUSSION\r\nLife cycle and host range of Apoderus tranquebaricus\r\nFab. was studied in the laboratory as well as in the field.\r\nThe detailed account of life cycle stages i.e. egg, larva,\r\nMamlayya, Aland, Gaikwad and Bhawane 47\r\npupa and adult are given in table1 and 2 and depicted in\r\nplate I from Fig. 1 to 4. The leaf cradles prepared on the\r\nleaves of Dimocarpus longan, Aporosa lindliyana,\r\nSyzygium cumini and Mammea suriga shown in Plate I\r\nFig. 5 to 8. The host range is given in table 3.\r\nA. tranquebaricus in South India rolls the leaves of\r\nCountry almond, Terminalia catappa & habits have been\r\nobserved on the number of species in the subtropical zone\r\nof India. Over 30 species are known from India in the genera\r\nApoderus, Attelabus and Rhynchites. (Lefroy, 1909). After\r\nthe mating, the female prepares the cases of green leaves.\r\nThe cut reaching from each margin only the leaf then folded\r\nlongitudinally and the tip rolled and forms a compact\r\ncylindrical mass, tightly rolled and folded leaf blade with\r\nthe egg in the centre.\r\nEggs\r\nThe eggs are pale yellow and oval in shape. The\r\naverage length of the egg was 1.16 ± 0.04 and breadth was\r\nmeasured 0.53 ± 0.03 mm. The incubation period ranged for\r\n3 to 4 days with an average of 3.7 ± 0.26 days.\r\nLarva\r\nAfter hatching the larva starts to feed on the leaf\r\ncradles. Body with sparse to abundant setae; thorax slender\r\nthan abdomen. Head is yellow. The larva moults twice. The\r\nlength of the full grown larva was 8.3 ± 0.30 mm and the\r\nbreadth ranged from 2.4 to 2.7 mm with an average 2.53 ±\r\n0.04 mm. During larval development, only first instar shows\r\nlight colour. Next two instars are yellow in colour and no\r\nspecific change in the morphology except in the length and\r\nbreadth. The average larval period was 25.2 ± 0.53 days.\r\nThe full grown larva of Apoderus jekelli Roelofs was\r\nmeasured about 10 to 10.5 mm in length and 2.5 to 2.8 mm\r\nin width. (Park et al., 2007).\r\nPupa\r\nThe newly formed pupa is dull white in colour. After 3\r\nto 4 hours it turned from dull white to yellow in colour.\r\nThe length of the pupa was 8 ± 0.25 mm. The breadth was\r\n3.14 ± 0.03 mm. The pupal period lasted 9.0 ± 0.29 days.\r\nThe pupa of A. jekelli measured 7 to 8 mm in length and 3\r\nto 3.2 mm in width. (Park et al, 2007).\r\nAdult\r\nImmediately after the adult formation in the nidus, the\r\nweevil does not showed any distinct coloration. After 18\r\nto 20 hours pigmentation was observed. The adult is red\r\nbrown in colour having elongated snout, clavate antennae.\r\nThe length of the adult ranged from 9 to 11 mm with an\r\naverage 10.3 ± 0.30 mm. The width was 3.9 ± 0.31 mm. The\r\nadult longevity in the laboratory averaged for 5 ± 0.33\r\ndays.\r\nMadapoderus pacificus, after the eclosion it shows\r\ntransparent pale yellow colour and remain on the leaves\r\nuntil it hardens and take on its proper colouration earlier\r\nthan beginning to feed and start a new generation. (Biondi,\r\n2005).The information on the subject of biology and host\r\nplants of attelabids is still meager from this region. Many\r\nof them are serves as a pests of agricultural and forest\r\nplants. Gyawali (2005) studied the yield loss of Soyabean\r\ncaused by Apoderus cyaneus Hope. A. tranquebaricus feed\r\non the Mangifera indica, Ancardium occidentale and\r\ntreated as sporadic pest. (Prem Chand, 1995; Ayyar, 1940).\r\nIn addition to this it also damages the Terminalia.\r\ntomentosa and Terminalia. arjuna. It damages the tender\r\nleaves by feeding on them or by nidus formation in the\r\nplantations or in the nurseries. Finally it reduces the leaf\r\nquality and quantity also. (Jha & Sen - Sarma, 1994). Uchara\r\nand Suzuki (1998) studied on the host plants Apoderinae\r\nand Attelabinae. Madapoderus pacificus develops on the\r\nplant Grewia sp. (Malvaceae). No biological information is\r\navailable for the African and Madagascan species; a little\r\ninformation is reported from Asian species, mainly Japanese\r\n(Biondi, 2005). It is a known fact that attelabids exhibits a\r\nparental care by forming a compact leaf cradles. The leaf\r\ncutting pattern often varies from species to species. The\r\nleaf cutting types are as follows both cutting type, curvedcutting\r\ntype, L - shaped cutting type, non - cutting type,\r\nquasi- cutting type, straight- cutting type, (Park et al., 2007).\r\nHirano (1953) studied the forms of nidus prepared by\r\nApoderus jekelli.\r\nThe host range of A. tranquebaricus was studied in\r\nthe Amba forest. It was found on Syzygium cumini,\r\n48 Mamlayya, Aland, Gaikwad and Bhawane\r\nDimocarpus longan, Aporosa lindliyana, Terminalia.\r\ntomentosa, Terminalia arjuna, Mammea. suriga,\r\nLagerstromia sp and Grewia sp. The identification of two\r\nmore plants is under process. However it is commonly found\r\non the S. cumini, D. longan, T. tomentosa, and on the M.\r\nsuriga. Previously it has been reported on Mangifera indica\r\nand Anacardium occidentale (Ayyar, 1940 and Prem chand,\r\n1995). During the study period we never found nidus of A.\r\ntranquebaricus on Mangifera indica. The study is still\r\ncontinued to get more comprehensive picture of host range\r\nand life cycle on these different host plants.','A.B. Mamlayya, S.R. Aland, S.M. Gaikwad and G.P. Bhawane (2011). Life History and Diet Breadth of Apoderus tranquebaricus Fab.\r\n(Coleoptera: Attelabidae. Biological Forum — An International Journal, 2(2): 46-48'),(4628,'127','Allelic Frequency of Daibetes and Hypertension Among Tribal and\r\nNon-tribal Population of Himachal Pradesh','Indira Devi* and Savitri Verma','14 INDIRA DEVI.pdf','',1,'The present study involved one thousand individuals from Tribal and Non-Tribal population of\r\nHimachal Pradesh for each diseases i.e., Diabetes, Mellitus and hypertension. The study was conducted to see\r\nthe difference between Tribal and Non-Tribal population by calculating the gene frequencies of these\r\ndiseases. The allelic frequencies of the sample showed significant differences between Tribes and Non-Tribes\r\npopulation on Diabetes Mellitus and Hypertension. The allelic frequency data calculated of two successive\r\ngenerations of Tribes and Non-Tribes showed almost similar pattern of inheritance in tribal and Non- Tribal\r\npopulation.','Allelic frequency, Diabetes, Hypertension, Tribal and Non-tribal population, Himachal Pradesh.','The present study involved one thousand individuals from Tribal and Non-Tribal population of\r\nHimachal Pradesh for each diseases i.e., Diabetes, Mellitus and hypertension. The study was conducted to see\r\nthe difference between Tribal and Non-Tribal population by calculating the gene frequencies of these\r\ndiseases. The allelic frequencies of the sample showed significant differences between Tribes and Non-Tribes\r\npopulation on Diabetes Mellitus and Hypertension. The allelic frequency data calculated of two successive\r\ngenerations of Tribes and Non-Tribes showed almost similar pattern of inheritance in tribal and Non- Tribal\r\npopulation.','The tribes and non-tribes occupy 40% and 60% of the\r\ntotal geographical area of the Himachal Pradesh. The density\r\nof population of tribes is very low in comparison to nontribes.\r\nThe people of tribal region like local made beverages\r\nand are mostly engaged in semi-agricultural activities. In\r\nrecent years the importance of genetics (Ahluwalia, 1985)\r\nin understanding the disease of mankind is greatly\r\nappreciated (Mckusick, 1978; Hartl, 1983). Genetic factors\r\n(endogenous) are involved in all genetic diseases but\r\nenvironmental Factors (exogenous) are equally important in\r\nthe expression of most of the inherited disease. The present\r\nstudy was conducted to evaluate the effect of inheritance\r\nby calculating the gene frequencies of these diseases.\r\nMATERIAL AND METHOD\r\nThe data for the given diseases were collected\r\nrandomly (taken 1000 individual each from Tribes and Non-\r\nTribe) from hospitals and on familial basis. The gene\r\nfrequency was calculated by using Hardy and Weinberg\r\nLaw of Equilibrium (1908) i.e., P + Q whole square is = 1\r\nand P square + Q square + 2PQ = 1.\r\nThe genotypic and phenotypic allelic frequencies were\r\ncalculated according to Hardy and Weinberg Law of\r\nEquilibrium (1908). To test the significance of results, mean,\r\nStandard Deviation (S.D), Coefficient of variation (Snedecor\r\nand Cochran,1976) and Fisher \"t-test were applied in the\r\nstudy.\r\nRESULT AND DISCUSSION\r\nHypertension: Among the non-tribes 48% individuals\r\nwere observed affected with recessive alleles (q) whereas\r\nonly 19.5% individuals observed among tribes. Recessive\r\nallele (q) is taken for affected individuals and unaffected\r\nindividuals are considered with dominant alleles (p).\r\nComparative phenotype data (Table 1) showed\r\nsignificant (p < 0.01) difference between tribes and nontribes\r\non these diseases. The results suggest great variation\r\nbetween these two populations on these diseases. The\r\ncoefficient of variation was highest for the recessive alleles\r\n(q) of the tribal region. This shows greater variation for\r\nthis allele in the tribal population. The coefficient of variation\r\nfor dominant allele (p) showed highest value in the non\r\ntribes than the tribes. Therefore, the dominant allele (p)\r\nshows greater variation in non tribes.\r\nThe genotypic frequency showed (Table 2) highly\r\nsignificant values (p < 0.01) in both the contrasting\r\npopulation\'s i.e. tribes and non tribes. The coefficient of\r\nvariation is highest in 2pq and p2 of non tribes and q2 in\r\ntribes. This shows variation for heterozygous 2pq and\r\ndominant homozygous p2 alleles in non tribes and recessive\r\nhomozygous q2 in tribes.\r\nIn brief, the present study showed high differences of\r\nphenotypic and genotypic frequencies of this disease\r\nbetween the tribes and non tribes, which suggest less\r\nprevalence of this disease among the tribes. It may be due\r\nto unexploited environment, high physical activity, and\r\nnegligible intake of saturated fats and stress free life style.\r\nMany earlier researches (Gutmann and Benson, 1971;\r\nColleto, et al., 1993; Partha et al., 1995) have also observed\r\nthe roll of environmental factor responsible for hypertension.\r\nBoth physical activity and fatty diets increase the blood\r\npressure and insulin resistance in the human body (Laws\r\nand Reaven, 1991 and Mayer et al. 1993). Carmelli, et al.\r\n(1994) suggested that There is a common underlying factor\r\nthat mediates the clustering of hypertension Diabetes and\r\nobesity. These common factors were generally influenced\r\nby both genetic and environmental factors.\r\nBiological Forum — An International Journal, 3(1): 49-51(2011) ISSN : 0975-1130\r\n50 Devi and Verma\r\nDiabetes: Among the non-tribes 17% individuals were\r\nobserved affected with diabetes where as in case of tribes\r\nit is only in 5.3%. Recessive allele (q) is taken for affected\r\nindividuals and unaffected individuals are considered with\r\ndominant alleles (p).\r\nThe results in terms of phenotype data (Table 1)\r\nshowed significant (p < 0.01) difference between tribes and\r\nnon-tribes. The results show the coefficient of variation\r\nwas highest for the recessive alleles (q) in the non tribes.\r\nThis shows greater variation for this allele in the non tribe\'s\r\npopulation. The coefficient of variation for dominant\r\nallele (p) show highest value in the non tribes than the\r\ntribes. Therefore, the dominant allele (p) shows greater\r\nvariation in non tribes.','Indira Devi* and Savitri Verma (2011). Allelic Frequency of Daibetes and Hypertension Among Tribal and Non-tribal Population of Himachal Pradesh. Biological Forum — An International Journal, 3(1): 49-51.'),(4629,'127','Systematic Studies, Life History and Infestation by Helicoverpa\r\narmigera (Hubner) (Lepidoptera: Noctuidae) on Tomato in Semi Arid\r\nRegion of Rajasthan','K.C. Sharma, S.C. Bhardwaj and Gaurav Sharma','15 KC SHARMA.pdf','',1,'The detailed systematic studies, life history and infestation done by Helicoverpa armigera (Hubner)\r\non tomato in semi arid region of Rajasthan were conducted from 1999-2010. The pre-oviposition, oviposition and\r\npost oviposition periods ranged from 2.15-3.21, 5.25-6.60 and 1.12-1.33 days, respectively in different generations.\r\nThe fecundity/ female ranged from 256.60-490.66 eggs and percentage hatchability ranged between 77.80-89.0\r\npercent in different generations. The longevity of male and female moths was 2.44-5.89 and 8.79-11.33 days,\r\nrespectively. In the first two generations the ratio of male was higher than female (1:0.76 and 1:0.67) but in the\r\nnext generation the ratio of female was higher than males (1:1.22). The incubation period was 5-7, 5-6 and 4-\r\n6 days in the Ist, IInd and IIIrd generation. The larvae passed through five instars with 21.25-38.24 days of total\r\nlarval period in different generations. The mean pre-pupal period and pupal period ranged from 4.04-4.75 and\r\n13.78-24.38 days in different generations. H. armigera completed three generations in semi arid region of\r\nRajasthan from October to May.','Helicoverpa armigera, life history, tomato, Rajasthan.','The detailed systematic studies, life history and infestation done by Helicoverpa armigera (Hubner)\r\non tomato in semi arid region of Rajasthan were conducted from 1999-2010. The pre-oviposition, oviposition and\r\npost oviposition periods ranged from 2.15-3.21, 5.25-6.60 and 1.12-1.33 days, respectively in different generations.\r\nThe fecundity/ female ranged from 256.60-490.66 eggs and percentage hatchability ranged between 77.80-89.0\r\npercent in different generations. The longevity of male and female moths was 2.44-5.89 and 8.79-11.33 days,\r\nrespectively. In the first two generations the ratio of male was higher than female (1:0.76 and 1:0.67) but in the\r\nnext generation the ratio of female was higher than males (1:1.22). The incubation period was 5-7, 5-6 and 4-\r\n6 days in the Ist, IInd and IIIrd generation. The larvae passed through five instars with 21.25-38.24 days of total\r\nlarval period in different generations. The mean pre-pupal period and pupal period ranged from 4.04-4.75 and\r\n13.78-24.38 days in different generations. H. armigera completed three generations in semi arid region of\r\nRajasthan from October to May.','Tomato (Lycopersicon esculentum Mill.) is a profitable\r\nvegetable, cultivated widely in the semi arid region of\r\nRajasthan. Among the various insect-pests responsible for\r\nlowering the yield of tomato crop, the fruit borer,\r\nHelicoverpa armigera (Hubner), is a highly destructive pest\r\ncausing serious damage (Srinivasan, 1959; Krishnamoorthy\r\nand Mani, 1996). The monetary loss due to this pest in the\r\ncountry has been estimated over rupees one thousand\r\ncrores per year (Jayraj et al., 1994). A thorough knowledge\r\nof life history of insect and its status as a pest provide an\r\nimportant basis for developing efficient pest management\r\nstrategies. Climatic conditions, particularly temperature,\r\nhumidity, rainfall, agronomic practices and cropping pattern\r\nof the region appear to be the principal controlling factors.\r\nTherefore, the present studies were undertaken to study\r\nthe biology of H. armigera on tomato in semi arid region\r\nof Rajasthan.\r\nMATERIALS AND METHODS\r\nStudies on the biology of the tomato fruit borer, H.\r\narmigera were made in the field and laboratory of the\r\nDepartment of Entomology, S.K.N. College of Agriculture,\r\nJobner, Rajasthan; College of Technology and Agricultural\r\nEngineering, MPUAT, Udaipur and identification and\r\nmeasurement work of different stages of insect conducted\r\nat Department of Entomology, S.K.N. College of Agriculture,\r\nJobner and Zoological Survey of India, Desert Regional\r\nCentre, Jodhpur, Rajasthan from 1999-2010.\r\n(i) Rearing of H. armigera: For studying the life\r\nhistory of the H. armigera a large number of tomato fruit\r\nborer larvae were collected from the tomato crop, during\r\nSeptember- October. Each larva was reared separately in a\r\nplastic tube (10 × 2.5cm) at the room temperature. Fresh\r\ntomato leaves were served as food for the larvae. Each\r\ntube was closed with the help of a cotton plug. The grown\r\nup larvae pupated in the tube. The newly emerged moths\r\nfrom these tubes were released in pairs in the glass\r\nchimneys for getting the eggs. The upper end of the\r\nchimney was kept closed with a piece of muslin cloth\r\nfastened with rubber band. The bottom of the chimney was\r\nplaced intact in a petridish containing a filter paper. Two\r\nfolded paper stripes were suspended inside the chimney,\r\nwhich served as a resting place for the moths. Fresh tomato\r\ntwigs were used for egg lying. The cut ends of these twigs\r\nwere wrapped in water soaked cotton swabs, which were\r\ncovered with polythene pieces. This was done to avoid\r\nthe loss of water from the twigs so as to keep them turgid.\r\nTen per cent honey solution, put on the cotton swabs,\r\nwas provided to adults as food. The female moths laid eggs\r\non the leaves, walls of the chimney and on muslin cloth.\r\nThese eggs were removed gently with the help of a moist\r\ncamel hairbrush.\r\n(ii) Duration of larval instars: For determining the\r\ndurations of the five larval instars, 0-24 hour old larvae\r\nwere taken. Thirty larvae were reared singly in plastic\r\nspecimen (10 × 2.5cm) tubes. Each tube was kept closed\r\nwith the help of the cotton plug. Food in each tube was\r\nchanged daily by bringing fresh leaves from the field.\r\nBiological Forum — An International Journal, 3(1): 52-56(2011) ISSN : 0975-1130\r\nSharma, Bhardwaj and Sharma 53\r\nObservations on moulting were recorded daily. To detect\r\nexuviae and heads of the 1st and 2nd instar larvae, a\r\nbinocular microscope was used. The exuviae of subsequent\r\ninstars were, however, visible with naked eye. Thus, the\r\ndurations of different larval instars were recorded.\r\n(iii) Pre-pupal and pupal duration: Pre-pupal (time\r\nelapsed between cessation of feeding and shedding of the\r\nlast larval skin) and pupal (the time of pupation and the\r\nemergence of moths) durations were determined. A total of\r\n30 newly hatched larvae were taken for further observations.\r\nWeight of each pupa was recorded within 24 hours of its\r\nformation.\r\n(iv) Studies on some aspects of adult life: The newly\r\nemerged moths were separated as males and females to\r\nwork out sex- ratio. For studying the pre-oviposition,\r\noviposition and post-oviposition durations, the newly\r\nemerged moths were released, in pairs, in glass chimneys.\r\nThe period from the emergence of female moth to the laying\r\nof first egg was considered as pre-oviposition period. The\r\nperiod from laying of the first to the last egg was\r\nconsidered as the oviposition period. The duration from\r\nlaying of the last egg to the death of the moth was\r\nconsidered as post-oviposition period. In these studies,\r\ncotton swab soaked in 10 per cent honey solution were\r\nplaced in the chimney to serve as food for the moths. These\r\nswabs were changed daily. The duration from emergence\r\nof a moth to its death was considered as longevity.\r\nFor studying the fecundity, each mated female moth\r\nwas kept in a glass-chimney. Each chimney was provided\r\nwith a 10 cm long tomato twig to facilitate egg laying. The\r\ntwigs bearing the eggs were replaced daily by fresh twigs.\r\nThe eggs on each twig were counted daily. This process\r\nwas continued till the female died. Some times eggs were\r\nlaid on the walls of the chimney and on the muslin cloth.\r\nIn such cases, these were counted directly without removing\r\nthem from these surfaces. Fifty eggs obtained from females\r\nwere placed in a petridish (5 cm. diameter) to study their\r\nviability and incubation period\r\nRESULTS AND DISCUSSION\r\nThe results of detailed systematic studies, life history\r\nand infestation done by Helicoverpa armigera (Hubner)\r\non tomato in semi arid region of Rajasthan were as given\r\nbelow.\r\n(a) Egg: It is spherical in shape with a flattened base.\r\nThe colour in the beginning was yellow-white, which\r\nbecome dark brown before hatching. They measured 0.47 +\r\n0.04 mm × 0.48 + 0.05 mm. in length and breadth,\r\nrespectively. The above observations are in agreement with\r\nthose of Lefroy (1906), Neunzing (1964), Edwards and Heath\r\n(1964) and Singh and Singh (1975).\r\n(b) Larva: The larva passed through five instars before\r\nbecoming pupa and the size of first, second, third, fourth\r\nand fifth instar larva was 1.44 × 0.49 mm, 3.43 × 0.78 mm,\r\n8.30 × 0.07 mm, 17.8 × 0.34 mm and 32.40 × 5.20 mm in\r\nlength and breadth, respectively. The newly hatched larva\r\nwas semi translucent and creamy in colour with yellowish\r\norange longitudinal lines on the dorsal surface of the body.\r\nThe head, thoracic, anal shields and legs were of brown\r\ncolour. The setae present were dark in colour. These findings\r\nare similar to those of Neunzig (1964) and Singh and Singh\r\n(1975). The second instar larva was yellowish brown in\r\ncolour and head was some what darker as compared to the\r\nbody colour. In the third instar, the colour turned yellowish\r\nwhite with many black spots from anterior to posterior side\r\nof the body. In the forth instar the change in body colour\r\nwas apparent having dorsal side pale yellow with grayish\r\nlongitudinal lines. The head become dark brown in the fifth\r\ninstar with pale green body having broken stripe along each\r\nside of the body. These findings are in conformity with\r\nthose of Neunzig (1964) and Singh and Singh (1975).\r\n(c) Pre-pupal stage: The fully-grown larva stopped\r\nfeeding before entering into pupal stage. The pre-pupa\r\nmeasured 24.40 + 2.83 mm in length and 4.85 + 0.65 mm in\r\nbreadth, however the colour became darker with less\r\nprominent stripes. These findings are supported by Neunzig\r\n(1964).','K.C. Sharma, S.C. Bhardwaj and Gaurav Sharma (2011). Systematic Studies, Life History and Infestation by Helicoverpa\r\narmigera (Hubner) (Lepidoptera: Noctuidae) on Tomato in Semi Arid\r\nRegion of Rajasthan. Biological Forum — An International Journal, 3(1): 52-56. '),(4630,'127','Health and Hygiene Status of the Fisherwomen in the State of Goa','Yasmin Modassir* and Azra Ansari','16 DR YASHMIN.pdf','',1,'Goa is one of the smallest states of India. It has a coast line of 105 km with 47 villages engaged\r\nin fishing operations. About 50% population of these villages shared by women. These women actively take part\r\nin various fishing activities, at time even in fishing along with men. This along with household chores leaves\r\nthem with less time for themselves. This has resulted in poor health condition of women fisher folk in general.\r\nGender preference is found to be a prevalent factor because of which multiple pregnancies are seen and\r\nrendering them anaemic. The women take no adequate, prenatal and postnatal care. The women lack nutritious\r\nfood and are found under-nourished, in spite of being engaged in fishing activities which is a valuable source\r\nof protein and vitamins. The coastal villages in Goa lack proper sanitation, regular water supply, drainage\r\nsystem and proper toilet which result in poor hygiene condition. Lack of sanitation has been a major cause of\r\noutbreak of different diseases like typhoid, gastroenteritis, skin disease, malaria, encephalitis and intestinal\r\ninfections.','-','Goa is one of the smallest states of India. It has a coast line of 105 km with 47 villages engaged\r\nin fishing operations. About 50% population of these villages shared by women. These women actively take part\r\nin various fishing activities, at time even in fishing along with men. This along with household chores leaves\r\nthem with less time for themselves. This has resulted in poor health condition of women fisher folk in general.\r\nGender preference is found to be a prevalent factor because of which multiple pregnancies are seen and\r\nrendering them anaemic. The women take no adequate, prenatal and postnatal care. The women lack nutritious\r\nfood and are found under-nourished, in spite of being engaged in fishing activities which is a valuable source\r\nof protein and vitamins. The coastal villages in Goa lack proper sanitation, regular water supply, drainage\r\nsystem and proper toilet which result in poor hygiene condition. Lack of sanitation has been a major cause of\r\noutbreak of different diseases like typhoid, gastroenteritis, skin disease, malaria, encephalitis and intestinal\r\ninfections.','INTRODUCTION\r\nAll over India, hundreds of women continue to be\r\ninvolved in fish-related activity, mainly to sustain their\r\nfamilies. As the fisheries resource is increasingly threatened,\r\nthe task of women gets more and more difficult. As a result\r\nof the fish workers\' struggles, both locally and nationally,\r\non the deep-sea fishing policy of the Government of India\r\nand the impact of intensive shrimp culture, the problems of\r\nthe coastal communities have begun to receive attention\r\nfrom media and government.\r\nIn India, fisher folk are considered members of a\r\nbackward community. In particular fisherwomen have a low\r\nstatus in the social hierarchy (Gadagkar, 1992). The present\r\nstudy was taken up to identify the problems of fisherwomen\r\nin relation to health and hygiene. In Goa, the fisheries sector\r\nplays an important role in the state economy with regards\r\nto socio-economic condition of small-scale fisher folk. The\r\ntotal number of fishermen of Goa coast is 20,000 out of\r\nthese 30% are active fishermen, mostly involved in inshorefishery\r\nactivities. Women form around 50% of this\r\npopulation. Small-scale fisheries is primarily rural based and\r\ncontributes to nearly 65% of the total marine fish landings\r\nof India. In Goa it accounts to 51.2% of total fishery sector.\r\nVarious subsidy schemes are introduced by the government\r\nin order to promote small scale fishery. However, their\r\nexistence still depends on subsistence level which is\r\nindicative of poor health, hygiene and very poor socioeconomic\r\nstatus.\r\nState of Goa is one of the smallest states in India and\r\nis located along the central west coast of India between\r\nthe coordinate 14°54\' to 15°48\'N and 73°40\' to 74°20\'E. The\r\ncoast line stretches to a length of about 105 km from East\r\nto West. The state has inland waterways covering 250 km\r\nof area. The number of fishing talukas in the state is 8\r\nwhich include 42 marine fishing villages and 47 inland\r\nfishing villages. A total of 30-35 villages are engaged in\r\nfishing operations. They are namely; Shivolim, Chapora,\r\nTerekhole, Anjuna, Baga, Chorao, Britona, Kumbarjua, Dona\r\nPaula, Agassim, St. Jacinto, Baina, Bogmalo, Velsao,\r\nMajorda, Colva, Benaulim, Varca, Carmona, Betul, Betim, etc.\r\nThe total fisheries population is estimated to be 30,225,\r\nand out of which 11,944 form the active fishermen\r\npopulation. The number of fishing co-operative societies\r\naccounts to 6 with 889 members in the state of Goa. This\r\nis the first attempt to analyse the health status in fishermen\r\ncommunity of Goa.\r\nMATERIALS AND METHODS\r\nA general survey was conducted in the year 2004-2005\r\nin 2 fishing villages of Goa namely; Britona and Dona Paula.\r\nDuring the survey all aspects related to health and hygiene\r\nconditions of the fisherwomen were considered. The target\r\nfisherwomen group was in the age group of 25-55 years.\r\nVarious members of fishery cooperatives were also\r\ninterviewed along with the fisher folk community so that\r\nan overall picture regarding the status of the fisherwomen\r\ncould be drawn. A brief analysis of the fishing community\r\nas well as the status of the fisherwomen in the community\r\nwas also done with respect to type of life, population\r\ndistribution, religion, sex ratio, food habits, clothing, social\r\ncustoms, health and hygiene, conditions like sanitation\r\nfacility, drinking water and medical facility. Other than this,\r\ninfrastructure facilities available in the two villages were\r\nalso studied in detail. The method described by Jelliffe\r\n(1966) was used as a model to study the nutritional\r\ndeficiency signs of infant, children and also pregnant and\r\nlactating women.\r\nBiological Forum — An International Journal, 3(1): 57-60(2011) ISSN : 0975-1130\r\n58 Modassir and Ansari\r\nRESULTS AND DISCUSSION\r\nCommunity background\r\nThe fisher folk community had a very low status in\r\nour Indian society. They have been categorized as lower\r\ncaste. In spite of the fact that several fishing communities\r\nhave accepted religions, which proclaim equality of man,\r\neven in these groups they still find themselves on the\r\nlowest rung of the social ladder. As a community they have\r\nbeen isolated and unorganized.\r\nThe fisher folk community in Goa can be categorized\r\ninto two groups based on religion. The Catholic Kharvi\r\nand Kharvi / Gabit (Kshatriya Maratha). Catholic Kharvis\r\nare distributed along the coast of Goa with a major\r\nconcentration in Salcete, Marmagoa and Tiswadi talukas.\r\nThey speak Konkani and some of them can speak English\r\nand among the older generation, some can understand\r\nPortuguese language. The Kharvis embracing Hinduism call\r\nthemselves as the Kshatriya Maratha Samaj. They are locally\r\nrecognized as Gabits and regionally called Kharvis. They\r\nare mainly concentrated in Canacona, Salcete and Pernem\r\nTalukas of Goa. They use Konkani at home and Marathi\r\noutside as well as for correspondence.\r\nThough considerable intercommunity difference exists\r\nin the community but as far as mode of fishing is\r\nconcerned, a general pattern of horizontal and vertical\r\nstructure in the community is very evident. Irrespective of\r\nthe cast, the communities are divided into economic lines,\r\nsuch as ownership of nets, mechanized and non mechanized\r\nboats and canoes, thus the families are segregated on the\r\nbasis of a set ownership. Adult and child literacy level was\r\nanalyzed in the two villages and it was seen that majority\r\nof the older population were lacking even the basic primary\r\neducation. The trend of sending children to schools has\r\njust started, as a result of which the younger generation\r\nwas seen to have education at least up to the high school\r\nlevel. The other parameters like, types of houses, population\r\ndistribution, religion, sex ratio, food habits, clothing, social\r\ncustoms, health and hygiene, adult literacy, electricity, etc,\r\nwere studied and have been tabulated in the Table 1. It\r\nwas seen that among the two villages Dona Paula had a\r\nbetter standard of life as compared to Britona. This could\r\nbe attributed to the additional income got through at least\r\none member of the family working the Gulf countries. Also\r\nits proximity to the capital town adds to the better lifestyle.\r\nIt was observed that provision of toilets was found outside\r\nthe house in most of the cases, but they were found to be\r\npoorly maintained. Though even small farmers were found\r\nfairly well equipped with luxury items like television,\r\nrefrigerators, radio and furniture but general hygiene was\r\nfound lacking. Certain pockets of the surveyed area have\r\nno electricity supply and hygienic conditions were found\r\nvery low.','Yasmin Modassir* and Azra Ansari (2011). Health and Hygiene Status of the Fisherwomen in the State of Goa. Biological Forum — An International Journal, 3(1): 57-60. '),(4631,'127','Nodulation Study in Some Varieties of Frenchbean Crop\r\n(Phaseolus vulgaris L.)','Padminee Das and S.K. Bandyopadhyay','17 PADMINI.pdf','',1,'In the present fuel subsidized agriculture practices, leguminous plants play an unique role by\r\nfixing nitrogen through symbiotic association with Rhizobium or Bradyrhizobium. Among the legumes, French\r\nbean or Phaseolus vulgaris L. Which are commonly known as Rajmash are used profusely by the common people\r\nas an alternative diet of protein. It is very nutritious and contain 22.9% of protein, 1.2% of fat, 60.6% of\r\ncarbohydrate and a large number of minerals like calcium (260 mg/100g of seed), phosphorus (101 mg/100g of\r\nseed) and iron (5.8 mg/100g of seed). The genus Phaseolus belongs to the family leguminaceae, subfamily\r\nPapilionaceae with diploid chromosome number 2n = 22. Phaseolus vulgaris has a wide range of acceptability for\r\ndifferent species of Rhizobium. It can be nodulated by Rhizobium leguminosarum bv. phaseoli, Rhizobium tropici\r\nor rhizobium etli.\r\nFive varieties of Phaseolus vulgaris viz Cirpir-50, Local, Anupam, Selection 9 and Kalingpong were studied in\r\nrespect of their nodular characters and yield in response to (i) mixed culture of Rhizobium strains,(ii) Rhizobium\r\n+ PSB and (iii) Rhizobium +PSB +KM treatments. Moreover, genetic parameters of variation and correlation\r\ncoefficient of yield contributing characters with nodular characters were also estimated. The main objective of\r\nthese estimations is to understand the association of biological nitrogen fixing characters with yield contributing\r\ncharacters. Among these three treatments, a considerable increase in expression of all the characters was\r\nobserved in case of Rhizobium + PSB treatment. The variety Anupam showed the maximum values in respect of\r\nalmost all nodular characters and yield. So it indicates that though the Rhizobium alone has significant effect\r\nin all nodular and yield attributing characters but the addition of PSB augments this effect to the highest\r\nlevel. A strong correlation was observed between the fresh nodular weight and fresh root weight. Similarly,\r\npositive correlation was observed between branch number and yield and number of nodules with yield which\r\nindicates a positive influence of nitrogen substances towards yield. The positive correlation between\r\nleghaemoglobin content of nodule with the nodule number, fresh nodular weight and yield indicates that\r\nleghaemoglobin content plays a positive role towards yield.','Phaseolus, Rhizobium, PSB, KM, Nodulation, leghaemoglobin.','In the present fuel subsidized agriculture practices, leguminous plants play an unique role by\r\nfixing nitrogen through symbiotic association with Rhizobium or Bradyrhizobium. Among the legumes, French\r\nbean or Phaseolus vulgaris L. Which are commonly known as Rajmash are used profusely by the common people\r\nas an alternative diet of protein. It is very nutritious and contain 22.9% of protein, 1.2% of fat, 60.6% of\r\ncarbohydrate and a large number of minerals like calcium (260 mg/100g of seed), phosphorus (101 mg/100g of\r\nseed) and iron (5.8 mg/100g of seed). The genus Phaseolus belongs to the family leguminaceae, subfamily\r\nPapilionaceae with diploid chromosome number 2n = 22. Phaseolus vulgaris has a wide range of acceptability for\r\ndifferent species of Rhizobium. It can be nodulated by Rhizobium leguminosarum bv. phaseoli, Rhizobium tropici\r\nor rhizobium etli.\r\nFive varieties of Phaseolus vulgaris viz Cirpir-50, Local, Anupam, Selection 9 and Kalingpong were studied in\r\nrespect of their nodular characters and yield in response to (i) mixed culture of Rhizobium strains,(ii) Rhizobium\r\n+ PSB and (iii) Rhizobium +PSB +KM treatments. Moreover, genetic parameters of variation and correlation\r\ncoefficient of yield contributing characters with nodular characters were also estimated. The main objective of\r\nthese estimations is to understand the association of biological nitrogen fixing characters with yield contributing\r\ncharacters. Among these three treatments, a considerable increase in expression of all the characters was\r\nobserved in case of Rhizobium + PSB treatment. The variety Anupam showed the maximum values in respect of\r\nalmost all nodular characters and yield. So it indicates that though the Rhizobium alone has significant effect\r\nin all nodular and yield attributing characters but the addition of PSB augments this effect to the highest\r\nlevel. A strong correlation was observed between the fresh nodular weight and fresh root weight. Similarly,\r\npositive correlation was observed between branch number and yield and number of nodules with yield which\r\nindicates a positive influence of nitrogen substances towards yield. The positive correlation between\r\nleghaemoglobin content of nodule with the nodule number, fresh nodular weight and yield indicates that\r\nleghaemoglobin content plays a positive role towards yield.','In the present fuel subsidized agriculture practices,\r\nleguminous plants play an unique role by fixing nitrogen\r\nthrough symbiotic association with Rhizobium or\r\nBradyrhizobium. Among the legumes, French bean or\r\nPhaseolus vulgaris L. Which are commonly known as\r\nRajmash are used profusely by the common people as an\r\nalternative diet of protein. It is very nutritious and contain\r\n22.9% of protein, 1.2% of fat, 60.6% of carbohydrate and a\r\nlarge number of minerals like calcium (260 mg/100g of seed),\r\nphosphorus (101 mg/100g of seed) and iron (5.8 mg/100g\r\nof seed).\r\nIt has been known that nod ABC genes of the bacterial\r\nstrain determines the host spectrum. It has been shown\r\nthat the sterile Rhizobiunm culture filtrates are capable of\r\ninducing different types of reaction in the root system,\r\nespecially the characteristic root hair deformation (Dinarie\r\net al., 1992). These deformation are not seen in case of the\r\nculture filtrates of mutant strains altered in the common\r\nnod ABC genes. The chemical structure of the nod factor\r\nhas been established in all the species of Rhizobium,\r\nBradyrhizobium and Azorhizobium. All of them produce\r\nnod factors of the lipo-chito oligosaccharidic type,\r\nconsisting of an oligochitene skeleton of four or five Nacetyl\r\nGlucosamin residues, the acetyl group of the\r\nGlucosamine residue at the non-reducing and being replaced\r\nby a fatty acid chain (Carlson et al., 1994). The length and\r\ndegree of unsaturation of these fatty acid as well the nature\r\nof other substitute present at the end of the oligochitene\r\nskeleton vary considerably depending on the species.\r\nDifferent research works have been going on since\r\nlong to unveil variation in nodulation in relation to yield\r\nattributing characters. Eight varieties of Phaseolus vulgaris\r\ninoculated with 13 strains of Rhizobium phaseoli was\r\nstudied and analysis of variance the number of nodules\r\nand nodular fresh weight was found to be significantly\r\ncontrolled both by the host variety and bacterial strains\r\n(Bandyopadhyay, 1988). Hungria and Ruschel in 1989\r\nstudied four different cultivars of Phaseolus vulgaris L.\r\ninoculated with three strains of Rhizobium leguminosarum\r\nbiovar phaseoli in green house condition studying\r\nBiological Forum — An International Journal, 3(1): 61-66(2011) ISSN : 0975-1130\r\n62 Das and Bandyopadhyay\r\nnitrogenase activity, H2 evolution, relative efficiency of\r\nnodules, respiration rate of nodulated roots and detached\r\nroots and dry weight and total nitrogen of plants and found\r\nthat cultivar × strain interaction had an effect on all the\r\nparameters. Genotypic variation of N2 fixation in Phaseolus\r\nvulgaris L. in response to iron deficiency was also studied\r\nby Krouma et al., in 2006. Iniquez et al., (2004) recorded\r\nthe significant yield increase in Phaseolus vulgaris obtained\r\nby inoculation with a trifolitoxin producing strains of\r\nRhizobium legeminosarum bv. phaseoli. The symbiotic and\r\ncompetitive performance of two highly effective Rhizobia\r\nnodulating Phaseolus vulgaris was studied in silky loam\r\nand clay soil by Moawad et al., in 2004. The polyphasic\r\nstage of Rhizobium also observed by Moschetti et al.,\r\n(2005). They isolated 27 new strains of Rhizobium from\r\nVicia, Lathyrus and Pisum from different agro ecological\r\nareas and all Rhizobial isolates (except one) were\r\npresumptively identified as Rhizobium leguminosarum bv.\r\nviciae. The compatibility of phosphate solubilizing bacteria\r\n[(PSB1), Bacillus megaterium, and PSB2, Bacillus\r\nPolymyxa)] and plant growth promoting Rhizobacteria\r\n(Pseudomonas fluorescens) with Rhizoboum were studied\r\nby Prasad et al., (2002). Nodulation, plant dry weight and\r\nyield did not significantly vary with PSB-1 or PGRP +\r\nRhizobium + PSB-1 resulted in greater phosphorus uptake\r\nthan Rhizobium alone. PSB1 + Rhizobium also increase the\r\nnumber of nodules, Rhizobium + PSB-1 + PGPR was\r\nsuperior in terms of plant dry weight, grain yield and\r\nnitrogen and phosphorus uptake. Chandra and Parkeek in\r\n2002 observed the effect of Rhizobium, Azotobacter,\r\nChroococcum and Bacillus sp. on Vigna mungo,\r\nRhizobium, Phosphate solubilizing bacteria, (Bacillus\r\nmegaterium) and Rhizosphere bacteria (RB viz. Azotobacter\r\nchroococcum, Azospirillum sp., Bacillus sp. and\r\nPseudomenas fluorescens) on lentil. They inoculated to\r\nseeds singly or in combination. Rhizobium strain increase\r\nthe number and dry weight of nodules, plant dry weight\r\nand grain yield in both crops. Gunasekaran et al., 2004\r\nstudied the synergism between Rhizobium, plant growth\r\npromoting Rhizobacteria (PGPR) and Phosphate Solubilizing\r\nbacteria (PSB) in black gram. Combination of all the three\r\norganisms (Rhizobium, PGPR and PSB) were recorded the\r\nmaximum nodule, plant biomass and grain yield even when\r\ncompared to the inoculation with Rhizobium alone. Wolyn\r\net al., 1989 while studying the role of lateral root nodule in\r\nN2 fixation and their relationship between total shoot\r\nnitrogen and several traits which influence or control\r\nnitrogen fixation in Phaseolus vulgaris. They measured\r\nacetylene reduction value, specific nodule activity,\r\nleghaemoglobin concentration, total laghaemoglobin and\r\nnodule mass. There was significant variation among lines\r\nand cultivars for all traits measured. Moris et al., in 2005\r\nstudied the symbiotic interaction between Rhizobium etli\r\nand Phaseolus vulgaris and identified the presence of rel4\r\ngene in the strains of Rhizobium etli. Wilkinson and Iyer\r\n(1993) studied the nodulation specificity by Rhizobium with\r\nan interest of identification of the nature of some of the\r\nchemical signals that are exchanged between bacterium and\r\nplant during the symbiosis process. These are thought to\r\ndetermine nodulation specificity.\r\nThe present study would help to identify appropriate\r\nstrain of Rhizobium, capable of inducing effective and\r\nefficient nodules and higher yield. Along with this\r\nRhizobium strains, phosphate solubilizing bacteria (Bacillus\r\nmegaterium) and some Potassium Mobilizer was added in\r\naddition to augment the efficiency of the bacterial strains\r\nby increasing their population in the rhizosphere. Results\r\nwere analysed by standard biometrical method with a view\r\nto understand the intervarietal differences in response to\r\nmixed strains of Rhizobium with further addition of PSB\r\nand to different host in respect of root, shoot, nodule and\r\nyield characters. Measures of correlation co-efficient was\r\nused to find out the degree and direction of relationship\r\nbetween two or more characters to determine the component\r\ncharacters on which selection can be based for genetic\r\nimprovement of yield. The present investigation was carried\r\nout to know the degree and direction of association among\r\nnodular and yield characters for finding out the characters\r\nwhich should be selected to improve yield.\r\nThe present experiment was therefore, conducted only\r\nin the laboratory condition both in Leonard jar as well as\r\nin earthen pot with a view to understand:\r\n(a) The response of different local varieties to Rhizobial\r\nstrains, plus PSB, plus Potassium mobilizer.\r\n(b) Heritability, genetic advance as percentage of mean\r\nand Analyis of variance for different quantitative characters\r\nunder different atmosphere of treatment.\r\n(c) The degree and direction of these association\r\namong morphological, nodular and yield parameters.\r\nMATERIALS AND METHODS\r\nFor the present experiment, five varieties of Phaseolus\r\nvulgaris L. were used. Out of five one variety (local) was\r\ncollected from the seed house at Seorafuli, Hooghli, West\r\nBengal. Other Phaseolus vulgaris varieties were collected\r\nfrom Sutton seed house at Kolkata. The names of the\r\nvarieties are : Cirpir-50 , Local , Anupam, Selection 9 and\r\nKalingpong.\r\nThe experiment was conducted at a green house\r\ncondition of Nodule Research Laboratory, Bidhan Chandra\r\nKrishi Viswavidyalaya, Mohanpur, West Bengal. Collection\r\nand compilation of data were done at Nodule Research\r\nLaboratory and Statistical Department of Bidhan Chandra\r\nKrishi Viswavidyalaya, Mohanpur, Nadia district. The\r\nsowing time of the crop is on 1st week of December, and\r\npicking of pods were completed in the 2nd week of March.\r\nTwo strains of Rhizobium leguminosarum bv. phaseoli\r\n(i) strain no NR-3 and (ii) NR-7 were used in this\r\nDas and Bandyopadhyay 63\r\nexperiment. They were collected from the Nodule Research\r\nlaboratory B.C.K.V., Mohanpur. These strains were isolated\r\nfrom the nodule of Phaseolus vulgaris grown in the pot\r\nculture in complete aseptic condition. The mixture of these\r\nstrains in equal proportion with a population of 108 -1010\r\nwere used.\r\nYeast, water, Mannitol broth for the Rhizobium\r\nleguminosarum bv. phaseoli were prepared by taking the\r\nfollowing combination suggested by Vinsent (1970)','Padminee Das and S.K. Bandyopadhyay (2011). Nodulation Study in Some Varieties of Frenchbean Crop (Phaseolus vulgaris L.). Biological Forum — An International Journal, 3(1): 61-66. '),(4632,'127','Physico-chemical Investigation of Honey samples of Apis cerana\r\nincica F. (Traditional Beekeeping) and Apis mellifera (Morden\r\nApiculture) from Chamba District, Himachal Pradesh','Pawan K. Attri','18 DR ATTRI.pdf','',1,'Physicochemical analysis of honey enables to form standards for genuine honey samples of any\r\nregion based on various physicochemical characteristics. Moreover, the physicochemical data of any honey\r\nsample is essential for storage purpose and marketing. In the present investigation, physicochemical\r\ncharacteristics of honey were determined by collecting samples from different traditional hives; viz. wall hives,\r\nLog hives, miscellaneous hives and apiaries located in district Chamba. Honey sample were collected during the\r\nmain flow seasons of the region i.e. May-June (summer) and Sep-Oct (autumn) in 2001-2005. The physicochemical\r\nproperties of the various honey samples were studied with the International standard methods of analysis. In\r\nthe present investigation various parameter i.e., Refractive index/moisture content, Specific gravity, Viscosity,\r\nSurface tension, Electrical conductivity, Colour, and Ash content were studied.','Physiochemical investigation, honey, Chamba, Himachal Pradesh.','Physicochemical analysis of honey enables to form standards for genuine honey samples of any\r\nregion based on various physicochemical characteristics. Moreover, the physicochemical data of any honey\r\nsample is essential for storage purpose and marketing. In the present investigation, physicochemical\r\ncharacteristics of honey were determined by collecting samples from different traditional hives; viz. wall hives,\r\nLog hives, miscellaneous hives and apiaries located in district Chamba. Honey sample were collected during the\r\nmain flow seasons of the region i.e. May-June (summer) and Sep-Oct (autumn) in 2001-2005. The physicochemical\r\nproperties of the various honey samples were studied with the International standard methods of analysis. In\r\nthe present investigation various parameter i.e., Refractive index/moisture content, Specific gravity, Viscosity,\r\nSurface tension, Electrical conductivity, Colour, and Ash content were studied.','Honey is a supersaturated solution of sugar, which\r\ntogether with other constituents in minor amounts, is made\r\nby bees from the nectar of flowers. Because of multiple\r\nimportance of honey from food to medicine, it is of great\r\ninterest to carry out complete analysis of honey and to\r\nformulate values and ranges of various honey constituents\r\nand characteristics. Honey is generally evaluated by a\r\nphysico-chemical analysis of its constituents. Several of\r\nthese constituents are of great importance to the honey\r\nindustry as they influence the storage quality, granulation,\r\ntexture, flavour and the nutritional and medicinal quality of\r\nthe honey. The International Honey Commission (IHC) has\r\ntherefore proposed certain constituents as quality criteria\r\nfor honey. These include: moisture content, electrical\r\nconductivity, reducing sugars, amount of fructose and\r\nglucose, sucrose content, individual sugars, minerals, free\r\nacidity, diastase, HMF, invertase and praline. (Bogdanov,\r\nS. et al, 1999)\r\nFrom physical viewpoint, honey can be visualized as\r\nan aqueous dispersion of varying sized particles. Though\r\nsugars are the major constituents of honey, yet various\r\nphysical characteristics of honey, such as, refractive index,\r\nviscosity, density, and conductivity differ somewhat from\r\nan invert sugar solution of same moisture content because\r\nof presence of other minor constituents in honey as well\r\nas different ratios of different sugars in various samples.\r\nBeekeeping endeavor in Himachal Pradesh is still taken\r\nup on a modest commercial scale by beekeepers in some\r\nremote areas. Chamba district has great potential of\r\nbeekeeping; however, reliable information on the bee plants,\r\ntypes of honey and nectar flow and dearth periods in this\r\ndistrict is as yet highly limited and inadequate. Therefore,\r\nIn the present Investigation, samples of honey were\r\ncollected from Apis cerana indica F. colonies located in\r\ndifferent parts of district having different Altitudes, Latitudes\r\nand climatic conditions. Honey samples were collected from\r\nall Block of Chamba district i.e. Bharmour, Bhatyati, Chamba,\r\nMehala, Salooni, Tissa and Pangi in the years from 2001\r\nto 2005.\r\nSTUDY AREA\r\nNestling in the bosom of the Himalaya, Chamba district\r\nof Himachal Pradesh is unique in all aspects. Situated in\r\nthe extreme north- west of the state of Himachal Pradesh,\r\nChamba district is stretched between the upper Ravi (Vedic\r\nname-Purusni) valley and Chandra-Bhaga (Vedic name-\r\nAsikni) valley between North Latitude 32°10\' and 33°13\' and\r\nEast Longitude 75°45\' and 77°33\' with an estimated area of\r\n6,92,419 hectare. The district is surrounded on all sides by\r\nlofty hill ranges and the altitude in this entire mountainous\r\nterritory ranges between 2,000 and 21,000 feet above sea\r\nlevel. The climate is warm, rainy season is well marked, the\r\nwinter is mild and the snowfall is light (Table 1).','Pawan K. Attri (2011). Physico-chemical Investigation of Honey samples of Apis cerana incica F. (Traditional Beekeeping) and Apis mellifera (Morden Apiculture) from Chamba District, Himachal Pradesh. Biological Forum — An International Journal, 3(1): 67-73. '),(4633,'127','Frequency of Thyroid Dysfunction Among Diabetes in Punjabi\r\nPopulation','Gurjeet Singh, Vikas Gupta, Anu Kumar Sharma and Neeraj Gupta','19 GURJIT.pdf','',1,'The aim of the present study was to examine the frequency of thyroid disease among diabetes in\r\nPunjabi population and to investigate the effect of Diabetes mellitus on thyroid hormone levels and other biochemical\r\nvariables. The totals of 200 subjects including 100 diabetic (20 type 1 and 80 type 2) and 100 non\r\ndiabetic controls subjects were included in the present study. Each patient was investigated for plasma glucose\r\nfasting (FPG), glycosylated hemoglobin (HbA1c), serum cholesterol, serum triglyceride, high density lipoproteins\r\n(HDL) low density lipoproteins (LDL), very low density lipoproteins (VLDL), blood urea, serum creatinine,\r\nSGOT, SGPT, total triiodthyronine (T3), total thyroxine (T4), free triidothyronine (FT3) free thyroxine (FT4)\r\nand thyroid stimulating hormone (TSH).Patients with diabetes showed significantly higher levels of TSH, FPG\r\n, HbA1c, serum cholesterol, serum triglyceride, LDL, VLDL, blood urea, creatinine, SGOT, SGPT and significantly\r\nlower levels of T3, T4, FT3, FT4 and HDL as compared to non-diabetics. Among the 100 diabetics patients\r\nstudied 29% shows abnormal thyroid hormone levels (24% had hypothyroidism and 5% had hyperthyroidism)\r\nwhereas in 100 non diabetics subjects only 4 % of the subjects were having abnormal thyroid dysfunction.','Diabetes, Hypothyroidism, Hyperthyroidism, T3, T4, TSH, FT3 and FT4.','This study shows a very high incidence (29%) of\r\nthyroid dysfunction among diabetic patients. Failure to\r\nrecognize the presence of abnormal thyroid hormone levels\r\nmay be a primary cause of poor management often\r\nencountered in some of the treated diabetics. There is\r\ntherefore need for the routine assay of thyroid hormones\r\nin diabetic, particularly in those patients whose conditions\r\nare difficult to manage.','Diabetes mellitus (DM) and thyroid diseases are two\r\ncommon endocrinopathies seen in general population. The\r\nassociation between diabetes and thyroid dysfunction had\r\nbeen recognized since 1979, (Feely et al., 1979; Gray et al.,\r\n1979). Since then most of the studies have reported the\r\nprevalence of thyroid dysfunction among diabetes patients\r\nto be between 2.2 to 17% (Perros et al., 1995; Smithson,\r\n1998). Fewer studies have observed very high prevalence\r\nof thyroid dysfunction in diabetes i.e. 31 % and 46.5%\r\nrespectively (Celani et al., 1994; Udiong et al., 2007)\r\nThyroid hormones are insulin antagonists, both insulin\r\nand thyroid hormones are involved in cellular metabolism\r\nand excess and deficit of any one can result in functional\r\nderangement of the other (Sugure el al., 1999).\r\nThyroid disease is a pathological state which adversely\r\naffects diabetic control and is commonly found in most\r\nforms of DM. It is generally associated with advanced age\r\nin type 2 diabetes and autoimmune diseases in type 1\r\ndiabetes (Shah, 2007). DM may affect thyroid function either\r\nat the level of hypothalamic control of TSH release or at\r\nthe conversion of T4 to T3 in the peripheral tissue. It has\r\nbeen well documented that hyperglycemia leads to reversible\r\nreduction of the activity and hepatic concentration of T4-\r\n5-deiodinase, low serum concentration of T3 and low,\r\nnormal, or high level of T4 (Shah, 2007).\r\nIn hyperthyroidism there is elevation in the rate of\r\nglucose absorption, production (and utilization) and\r\nglycogen synthesis (and degradation) leading to decreased\r\nglycogen level (Donckier, 2003) but insulin resistance,\r\ndegradation and requirements are increased and there is\r\nincreased secretion with exaggerated effects of glucagon\r\nand adrenaline on the liver, all these change may lead to\r\ndiabetic ketoacidosis in state of insufficient insulin supply.\r\nFor these reason the dosage of oral anti diabetic drugs\r\nand insulin should be increased in diabetic patients with\r\nthyroid disease.\r\nIn hypothyroidism there is reduction in the rate of\r\nglucose absorption, gluconeogenesis and glucose\r\nproduction (and utilization) and glycogen synthesis (and\r\ndegradation) leading to increased glycogen level.\r\nAdditionally, insulin half-life will be prolonged with increase\r\nin its level and reduction in insulin requirement. Glucose\r\nlevel will be stabilized during treatment of hypothyroidism\r\nbut the risk of recurrent hypoglycemia will increase if insulin\r\ndose is not decreased (Mohn et al., 2002).\r\nSince thyroid hormone regulate metabolism and diabetes\r\ncan alter metabolism of food stuff, the metabolism of\r\norganisms may be further affected by the combination of\r\nthyroid disease and diabetes.\r\nThe relationship between diabetes mellitus and thyroid\r\ndysfunction has not been demonstrated in Punjab although\r\nthe prevalence of diabetes mellitus is very high and\r\nincreasing. Due to the lack of adequate information about\r\nthe two conditions, preventive management is difficult to\r\nplan and yet there could be many diabetic patients who\r\nISSN : 0975-1130\r\nBiological Forum — An International Journal, 3(1): 74-77(2011)\r\nSingh, Gupta, Sharma and Gupta 75\r\nmay have thyroid dysfunction which may greatly affect their\r\nglycemic control. Malfunctions like thyroid disease which\r\ncan occurs in diabetes mellitus and that causes metabolic\r\ndisturbances can further complicate management of patients\r\nand escalate the cost of diabetes mellitus treatments.\r\nKeeping the above in view the aim of the present study\r\nwas to examine the frequency of thyroid disease in patients\r\nwith diabetes mellitus and study the effect of diabetes on\r\nother biochemical variables in Punjabi population.\r\nMATERIAL AND METHODS\r\nThe subjects were selected from the cases presenting\r\nwith diabetes mellitus in the OPD and ward of department\r\nof medicine, in Civil Hospitals of Kapurthala, Jalandhar and\r\nAmritsar. An informed verbal consent was taken from each\r\nand every patient.\r\nThe study population consisted of 100 Diabetic\r\n(20 type 1 and 80 type 2) and 100 non diabetic subjects.\r\nThe criteria to diagnose diabetes mellitus was based on\r\nFPG level of 110mg/dl or higher, at more than two occasions\r\nand were receiving treatments such as insulin, oral\r\nhypoglycemic drugs and or physical exercise for diabetics\r\nmellitus. The initial criteria used for separating type 1 and\r\ntype 2 subjects were the physician classification based on\r\nage of onset of diabetes and dependence on Insulin\r\nTherapy alone to achieve normal plasma concentration.\r\nThe non diabetes volunteers without history of\r\ndiabetics mellitus whose FPG was less than 110 mg /dl on\r\ntwo occasions were the control samples. These volunteers\r\nincluded non-diabetic subjects who came in the hospitals\r\nfor routine checkups as advised by their attending\r\nphysicians. The controls were not taking any drugs.\r\nThe study excluded subjects suffering from rheumatoid\r\narthritis, tuberculosis, collagen disorders, liver diseases, renal\r\ndiseases, cardiac failure and gout.\r\nBlood samples were collected from all the 200 subjects.\r\nThey were kept on over night fast at least for 10 hrs before\r\nblood collection. 5 ml of venous blood was taken in dry\r\ndisposable syringe under aseptic conditions in sterile, dry\r\nvial for biochemical analysis.\r\nThe serum levels of T3, T4, FT3, FT4 and TSH were\r\nestimated by electrochemiluminous method on Elcysis 2010.\r\nFPG, HbA1c, cholesterol, triglycerides, HDL, LDL, VLDL,\r\nblood urea, serum creatinine, SGOT and SGPT, were\r\ndetermined on semi automated clinical chemistry analyzer.\r\nStatistical Analysis\r\nThe result were expressed as mean + SD of each\r\nvariable. The comparison between means was performed\r\nby student t test using SPSS version 10. P-value of 0.05 or\r\nless was interpreted as significant for the analysis.\r\nRESULTS AND DISCUSSION\r\nTable 1 presents the sex and age distribution of diabetic\r\nand non-diabetic subjects. In diabetic subjects 47 (47%)\r\nwere males and 53 (53%) were females while in non diabetic\r\nsubjects 48 (48%) were male and 52 (52%) were females.\r\nMean age of diabetic subjects was 40.95 ± 11.2 and that of\r\nNon-diabetic subjects was 41.09 ± 11.1.','Gurjeet Singh, Vikas Gupta, Anu Kumar Sharma and Neeraj Gupta (2011). Frequency of Thyroid Dysfunction Among Diabetes in Punjabi\r\nPopulation. Biological Forum — An International Journal, 3(1): 74-77.'),(4634,'127','Plankton Community of the Hypersaline Salterns of Goa, India','Yasmin Modassir and Azra Ansari','20 Dr. Yasmin-2.pdf','',1,'The plankton community of four hypersaline salters in Goa was studied in relation to prevailing\r\nenvironmental conditions and water quality. The average salinity was in the range of 45.6 to 65.1 psu while the\r\nwater temperature ranged between 30.5 and 34.6°C. The values of dissolved oxygen were low and suggested\r\nstressed condition. The nutrients levels were also very high in the salterns. Among the phytoplankton, the\r\nDunaliella salina was more in the hypersaline ponds while filamentous algae such as Oscillatoria, Pleurosigma\r\nand Nitzschia were common in all ponds. Among microzooplankton, the Fabrea salina comprised the major\r\ncomponent while the Artemia, Brachionus and Tintinids were recorded in low numbers particularly in hyper\r\nsaline zone. The microplankton community showed clear seasonal variation in occurrence. The overall species\r\nrichness was low in the salt pans.','Microplankton, Salterns, Goa coast.','The plankton community of four hypersaline salters in Goa was studied in relation to prevailing\r\nenvironmental conditions and water quality. The average salinity was in the range of 45.6 to 65.1 psu while the\r\nwater temperature ranged between 30.5 and 34.6°C. The values of dissolved oxygen were low and suggested\r\nstressed condition. The nutrients levels were also very high in the salterns. Among the phytoplankton, the\r\nDunaliella salina was more in the hypersaline ponds while filamentous algae such as Oscillatoria, Pleurosigma\r\nand Nitzschia were common in all ponds. Among microzooplankton, the Fabrea salina comprised the major\r\ncomponent while the Artemia, Brachionus and Tintinids were recorded in low numbers particularly in hyper\r\nsaline zone. The microplankton community showed clear seasonal variation in occurrence. The overall species\r\nrichness was low in the salt pans.','The solar pans are man made seasonal ponds\r\nconstructed mainly for the production of raw salt along\r\nsides of creeks and other low lying coastal areas. These\r\nponds offer an experimental system with an extreme\r\nenvironmental conditions and strong gradient in biodiversity\r\nof primary and secondary producers. It is among the most\r\nsimplified ecosystem for the simple reason that the number\r\nof species at any trophic level is low (Williams, 1991). While\r\nsome biological studies of salt pan is carried out else where\r\n(Rahman, 2006), there is very little information available on\r\nthe plankton community of the west coast of India\r\n(Ramamoorthy and Thangaraj, 1980; Mustafa et al., 1999).\r\nIn the present communication we have attempted to present\r\nthe result of a palnktological study of four simple salt pans\r\nof Goa, central west coast of India.\r\nSTUDY AREA\r\nGoa lies between the co-ordinates 14º 53\'57\" to 15º\r\n47\'59\"N and 73º 40\'54\" to 74º 20\'11\" E. The salt pans\r\ninvestigated fall within this zone. The salt pans are\r\ntraditional type and comprised of reservoirs, condensers\r\nand crystallizers. The present salt pans are part of\r\nmangroves reclaimed areas used for salt production and\r\nagriculture. Most of these salt pans are surrounded by\r\nbundh and khazan fields. The ground levels of salt pans\r\nare kept below the low tide level for free flow of salt water\r\nthrough gravity. The feed water received through canal is\r\nkept in the reservoir from where it is supplied to the\r\ncrystallizer pan through condenser. The production of salt\r\ntakes place during summer season (Feb-May). And the pon.\r\nMATERIAL AND METHOD\r\nFor the present study four salt work areas namely;\r\nRibander, Siridao, Curca and St Cruz were selected in the\r\nSalcete Taluka of Goa. On each site, one station preferably\r\nin buffer zone of the feeding canal was selected for the\r\ncollection and observation. Monthly samples of waster and\r\nplankton were collected during January 2002 to December\r\n2002. The water temperature and pH was measured at the\r\nsite while other parameters such as nitrite, nitrate, phosphate,\r\nand alkalinity were analyzed by following the methods given\r\nin APHA (1985). On each sampling date one liter water was\r\ncollected from each station for phytoplankton and 2 liters\r\nwater was used for the collection of microzooplankton\r\nfollowed by fixing the sample in Lugol\'s solution and\r\nbrought to the laboratory for further analysis. All samples\r\nwere then concentrated to 100 ml and supernatant solution\r\ndecanted. The aliquots of phyto- and microzoo-plankton\r\nwere taken for counting and identification under a binocular\r\nstero-type microscope.\r\nRESULT\r\nThe physico-chemical parameters play key role in\r\nstructuring the biological community of salterns (Davis,\r\n2000). The values of physico-chemical parameters are given\r\nin Table 1. The annual water temperature varies\r\nconsiderable due to the shallowness of the salt pans. The\r\nminimum and maximum temperature was 28.5°C at Siridao\r\nto 42°C at Ribander. The salinity fluctuated widely at each\r\nstation. It went up high due to excessive evaporation in\r\nthe summer period and dropped sharply during the monsoon\r\nseason. The annual average values were in the range of\r\n45.6 to 65.1 psu. The lowest salinity recorded was 2.0 psu\r\nin monsoon. The DO was often showed at saturation in\r\nthe feeding canal but the values decreased significantly\r\nthus giving an impression of stressed environment in the\r\nzones of higher salinity. The annual average total alkalinity\r\nfluctuated between 73.6 and 91.9 mg/l while the pH values\r\nwere in the range of 7.3 and 7.9. The nutrient concentration\r\nalso showed a wide fluctuation in the salt pans with values\r\nranging between 0.1-29.6 μg-at/l for phosphate, 0.4-50.4 μgat/\r\nl for nitrate and 0.1-21.1 μg-at/l for nitrite. The annual\r\naverage value of ammonia was in the range of 2.3 and 4.6\r\nμg-at/l.','Yasmin Modassir and Azra Ansari (2011). Plankton Community of the Hypersaline Salterns of Goa, India. Biological Forum — An International Journal, 3(1): 78-81. '),(4635,'127','Microbial Decolourization of Crystal Violet by Bacillus subtilis','Mrs. Sapna Kochher and Dr. Sandeep Kumar','21 SAPNA KOCHHER RAJESH KOCHHER REVISED.pdf','',1,'The physicochemical characterization of the textile industry effluent collected from Oswal Textile\r\nIndustries, Ludhiana (Punjab.) India has been carried out and the results showed that the temperature (40°C), pH (8.00), Biological Oxygen Demand (260 mgl–1), Chemical Oxygen Demand (790 mgl–1), Total Suspended Solids (2000 mgl–1), Total Dissolved Solids (7000 mgl–1 and colour over the prescribed fresh water limits. A potential bacterial strain was isolated and selected from the textile effluent on the basis of rapid azo dye Crystal violet (100mgl–1) decolorization and later identified as belonging to genus Bacillus based on Phenotypic characterization and phylogenetic analysis of the 16s rRNA gene sequence. Effects of physicochemical parameters (pH, Temperature, etc.) on the Crystal violet decolorization by the Bacillus were studied. Decolorization was effective at pH 8, 35°C with starch and peptone as carbon and nitrogen sources and in static conditions. This decolorization potential increased the applicability of this microorganism for the dye removal.','Textile Industry effluent; Bacillus subtilis; Crystal Violet; decolorization','Although decolorization is a challenging process to both the textile industry and the wastewater treatment, the result of this findings and literature suggest a great potential for bacteria to be used to remove color from dye wastewaters. Interestingly, the bacterial species used in carrying out the decolorization of Azo dye Crystal violet in this study was isolated from the textile dye industry waste effluent. The bacterial strain Bacillus subtilis showed decolorizing activity through a degradation mechanism rather than adsorption. This observation has established that the bacteria are adaptive in nature and can degrade contaminants. The ability of the strain to tolerate, decolorize azo dyes at high concentration gives it an advantage for treatment of textile industry wastewaters. However, potential of the strain needs to be demonstrated for its application in treatment of real dye bearing wastewaters using appropriate bioreactors.','The synthetic dyes are used extensively in textile dyeing and paper printing. First synthetic dye was reported in 1856. There are more than 40,000 dyes and pigments with some 7000 different chemical structures, out of which more than 3500 dyes are of practical use. Based on the chemical structure of the chromophoric group, the synthetic dyes are classified as azo dyes, nitroso dyes, triphenylmethane dyes, xanthane dyes & anthraquinone dyes (Shenai, 1994). India is now the largest producer of dyes and intermediaries in World. Because these dyes are mutagenic and carcinogenic and also cannot be completely removed by conventional wastewater treatment systems, before disposal and discharge of dye-containing effluents, they are to be treated to reduce their levels of toxicity and thus, to minimize their pollution impact. Some of the triphenylmethane dyes are used as dermatological agents, the best among them being gentian violet, which is a mutagen, a mitotic poison and clastogen (Kapdan et.al.2000). Bioremediation is an expensive mean to remove hazardous metal ions from the contaminated effluent (Faryal and Hammed, 2005). Presently, it was estimated about 10,000 of different commercial dyes and pigments exists and over 7 x 10 tones are produced annually worldwide (Guendy, 2007). Biotechnological tools also have been applied for the degradation of various textile dye and it was found that upto 70% color removal was noticed with different microflora (Khadijah et al , 2009). The biological methods being simple to use and low in cost have become main focus in recent studies on dye biodegradation. Keeping the above facts in mind, the present study was envisaged.\r\nREVIEW OF LITERATURE\r\nIndiscriminate disposal of sewage and industrial effluents is a major cause of pollution of water bodies and rivers into which they are discharged. The use of industrial effluents carrying a heavy load of heavy metals such as Pb, Zn, Cr, Ni and Hg for irrigation of crops also produces adverse effects on plant growth. Waste water generated by different production steps of a textile industry have high pH, temperature, detergents, oil, suspended and dissolved solids, dispersants, leveling agents, toxic and non-biodegradable matter, color and alkalinity. The effluents also consist of high concentrations of dye stuff, biochemical oxygen demand, total dissolved s olids, sodium, chloride, sulphate, hardness, heavy metals and carcinogenic dye ingredients which pose serious environmental problems.The mechanism of biodegradation depends in part, on the compound being degraded, but there are some consistent steps in the process regardless of the substrate. When an electron is added or removed from the ground state of a chemical it becomes highly reactive, allowing it to give or take electrons from other chemicals. This provides the basis for the non specificity of the enzymes and the ability of the enzymes to degrade xenobiotics, chemicals that have\r\nnever been encountered in nature. The main reactions that are catalyzed by the lignolytic enzymes include depolymerization, demethoxylation, decarboxylation, hydroxylation and aromatic ring opening. Many of these reactions result in oxygen activation, creating radicals that perpetuate oxidation of the organopollutants. Once the peroxidases have opened the aromatic ring structures by way of introducing oxygen, other more common species of fungi and bacteria can mineralize the products intracellularly into products such as CO2 and other benign compounds. (Weigel, J,1999) further reported that anaerobic dehalogenation of polychlorinated biphenyls in sediment slumes dehalogenales all flanking chlorines. Faryal and Hameed (2005) carried out the textile effluent analysis for presence of Mn, Zn, Mg etc. and reported subsequent decolourising bacteria.\r\nA very small amount of dye in water (10-50 mg L-1) affects the aesthetic value, transparency of water and gas solubility of water bodies. The presence of even very low concentrations of dyes in effluent is highly visible and degradation products of these textile dyes are often carcinogenic (Kim et al., 2003). Further, the adsorption of light by these textile dyes creates problems for photosynthetic aquatic plants and algae (Singh and Singh, 2006). Guendy (2007) discovered a method for treatment of wide conc. range of dye waste water through ozonization. Khadijah (2009) repoted 1540 bacterial isolates and screened for their ability to degrade selected azo dyes.\r\nMATERIALS AND METHODS\r\na) Sampling and analysis of effluent: Oswal Textile Industries, Ludhiana is one of the most industrialized cities in India. It is known as the textile capital of North India and was chosen for effluent sample collection. The Effluent sample was collected from the middle point of the area. Standard procedures (Spot and Grab) were followed during sampling. The Temperature and pH were determined at the sampling site. The pH was determined by using pH meter (Hanna digital pH meter, model-671-p) and temperature with laboratory thermometer. The sample was transported to laboratory at 4ºC as in accordance with the standard methods (Yatome et al., 1981). The physicochemical parameters such as (Colour, Biological Oxidation Demand (BOD) Chemical Oxygen Demand (COD), Total Suspended Solids (TSS), and Total Dissolved Solids (TDS)) were determined as soon as the sample was brought to the laboratory. Sample colour was analysed by spectrophotometer. BOD was determined by employing evaporation method by DO meter while COD was measured by COD instrument directly.\r\nb) Chemicals:The textile dye, Crystal violet (λmax. 523nm) was obtained from Oswal Textile Industries, Ludhiana. Nutrient broth (gL-1Peptone-5, Meat extract-1, Yeast extract-2, NaCl-5, pH-7) A stock solution of the dye (1000mg L-1) was prepared in de-ionized water and used for all studies.\r\nc) Isolation, screening and identification of dye decolorizing bacteria from effluent:The Textile Effluent was collected in sterile collection tubes from the sludge and wastewater of the ditches at industrial site located in Oswal Textile Industries, Ludhiana. The sample collected from the textile mill was screened for azo dye (Crystal violet) decolorizing bacterial strains by inoculating 10 ml. of sludge solution into 250ml. Erlenmeyer flask containing 100ml. nutrient broth (gL-1Peptone-5, Meat extract-1, Yeast extract-2, Nacl-5,pH-7). The flasks were incubated at 35°C under shaking conditions (130rpm).After 48h of incubation, 1.0ml. of the culture broth was appropriately diluted and plated on Nutrient Agar (gL-1 Peptone-5, Meat extract-1, Yeast extract-2, NaCl-5, Agar-15, pH – 7.0) containing 20mg L-1 Crystal violet.The Morphologically distinct bacterial isolates showing clear zones around their colonies due to decolorization of dye were selected for further studies. The pure culture stocks of these isolates were stored at 4°C on Nutrient Agar slopes containing 1000mg L-1 of Crystal violet. These isolates were screened for their ability to decolorize Crystal violet in liquid culture.The Screening process in liquid media was carried out by inoculating a loop full of cultures exhibiting clear zones into Nutrient broth containing Crystal violet under static conditions. After 24h of incubation, 1ml. of cell suspension was transferred to fresh nutrient broth containing Crystal violet to screen the strains with color removing ability. The Screening procedure in liquid medium was continued until complete decolorization of broth. A small amount of decolorized broth was transferred to nutrient agar plates containing Crystal violet (50 mg L-1).The bacterial isolate which tolerated higher concentration of the Azo dye was isolated by streak plate method. The Azo dye decolorizing bacteria was identified from several aspects including\r\nmorphology characters, biochemical tests as described in Bergey’s manual of determinative bacteriology\r\n( Indole, Methyl Red,Voges-Proskauer test, Citrate, Catalase, Oxidase, Nitrate Reduction test, Hydrolysis of Casein, Starch, Urea and Gelatin ).Assimilation of various sugars such as D-glucose, D-fructose, galactose, mannitol and D-maltose as sole carbon source was determined by inoculating the isolate into carbohydrate broth supplemented with respective carbon source. After inoculation the tubes were incubated at 37ºC for 24 - 48h.\r\nd) Decolorization assay: The decolorizing activity was expressed in terms of the percentage decolorization by the modified method described previously (Deepak et al., 2004). The Decolorization process was carried out using shaking culture and static culture by inoculating 1ml. of precultured (O.D 0.8-1) Bacillus subtilis into 100ml. of sterilized Nutrient broth in 250ml.Erlenmeyer flask and incubated on rotary shaker (130rpm) at 35ºC for 24h (Kalyani et al., 2009). Filter sterilized (0.22 μm) Crystal violet (100 mgL-1 ) was added to the culture and incubated in shaking conditions at 130rpm and in static conditions at room temperature for decolorization to occur. At regular intervals, 4ml.sample was withdrawn aseptically and centrifuged at 10,000 rpm for 15min.The cell free supernatant was used to determine the percentage decolorization of Crystal violet. Decolorization of dye was determined by monitoring the decrease in absorbance at the maximum wavelength of Crystal violet (λmax. 523nm) by using a UV-Visible spectrophotometer (UV-1700 pharmaspec, shimadzu). The uninoculated dye Medium supplemented with respective dye was used as blank (Jacob Thomson, 1998). Decolorization activity (%) was calculated by the following formula and all assays were done in triplicate:\r\ne) Decolorization of crystal violet under different culture conditions: The decolorization efficiency of Bacillus subitilis strain was compared over a wide range of pH (5-9) by adjusting the pH with hydrochloric acid or sodium hydroxide. Decolorization at different Temperatures (RT, 35°C, 37°C, 40°C, 45°C, 50°C) was carried out by adjusting the pH to 8.Varying Carbon sources 1% each ( dulcitol, starch, maltose, sucrose, dextrose, mannitol, d-xylose, lactose, mannose)and Nitrogen sources 1% each ( urea, potassium nitrate, sodium nitrate, malt extract, ammonium sulphate, ammonium nitrate, ammonium chloride, peptone) were used to check the decolorizing potential of the strain. All the flasks were incubated in static conditions at pH 8 and at 35°C.\r\nf) Statistical analysis: Data was statistically defined by one-way ANOVA using Microsoft excel. Results in each experiment were interpreted depending upon probabilities. Probability (p-value) was less than 0.05 which was found to be significant.\r\nRESULTS\r\nPhysico-chemical characterization of textile effluent:The effluent sample collected from a small scale Oswal Textile Industries, Ludhiana, India, was black in colour, with pungent smell and pH of slightly above neutral level and was within the permissible limits. The temperature of the effluent was high. Total Suspended Solids (TSS) and Total Dissolved Solids (TDS) in the textile effluent were very high. The solids present in ground water, besides effecting the growth of the plants directly, also affect the soil structure, permeability and aeration, indirectly effecting the plant growth. The Chemical Oxygen Demand (COD) and Biological Oxygen Demand (BOD) values were within the permissible limits in the effluent sample. Different bacterial strains isolated from the textile effluent were screened for their ability to decolorize the textile Azo dye (Crystal violet) and the potential strains were characterized morphologically, biochemically and at molecular level for identification. The bacterial count (CFU/ml) was significantly high.\r\nIsolation and identification: The study was started by screening for potential textile Azo dye decolorizing bacteria isolated from the textile industry effluent. Colonies surrounded by a nearly decolorized zone were isolated and then tested for dye removal capability using submerged culture. Strains isolated from the white colonies were inoculated in 100ml. of Nutrient broth in a 250ml. conical flask and incubated at 35°C under static conditions. One strain exhibiting highest decolorizing activity was chosen for further studies. The gram staining test showed the isolate to be non-motile, gram positive, spore forming, and rod-shaped bacteria. The spore was terminally located and ellipsoidal in shape. Biochemical characterization of the\r\nisolate revealed it to be negative for Indole, Methyl Red test, Voges-Proskauer, Citrate, Catalase, oxidase test and Nitrate Reduction test. The isolate showed negative result for the hydrolysis of casein, gelatin, starch and urea. The strain utilized various sugars, D-Maltose, D-Glucose, D-Fructose, Mannitol and Galactose as sole carbon sources and was found to be positive .','Mrs. Sapna Kochher and Dr. Sandeep Kumar (2011). Microbial Decolourization of Crystal Violet by Bacillus subtilis. Biological Forum — An International Journal, 3(1): 82-88. '),(4636,'127','Review and present observations on the Sighting of Black-Necked\r\nCrane, Grus nigricollis Przheylsky from\r\nLadakh (Jammu and Kashmir, India)','Indu Sharma and Avtar Kaur Sidhu','22 DR KAUR.pdf','',1,'-','-','The Black necked crane is included in Schedule I Part\r\nIII of Indian Wild life (Protection) Act. It is evaluated as\r\nvulnerable under criteria A1b, c, d A 2cC 1. on the IUCN\r\nRed List of Threatened Species. It is listed on Appendix I\r\nand II of CITES. Seven of the world\'s fifteen species are\r\nlisted in the international council for Bird Preservation\'s\r\n(ICBP, Birdlife international) checklist of threatened birds\r\n(Collor and Andrew, 1988). Chinese authorities have offered\r\nthe bird the highest class of protection, listing at as\r\nendangered, in class \'A\' (Pfister, 1998).\r\nLoss and degradation of habitats are the main threats\r\nto Black-necked Crane. In Ladakh (India) the black necked\r\ncrane has quite rare and restricted distribution. The\r\nChumathang area of Ladakh which is rich in black-necked\r\ncrane population, need to be conserved on primary basis.\r\nDue to development of tourism in Ladakh, these spots are\r\nbeing disturbed by tourists. Though in these areas Blacknecked\r\nCranes are quite tolerant to local people and\r\nregularly feed near human settlements and domestic\r\nlivestock. Therefore, it is suggested that in order to conserve\r\nthis species the tourist influx, grazing by the domestic\r\nanimals in the marshes and near the wetland in the habitat\r\nof the bird, cultivation on the basin of the wetlands need\r\nto be checked.\r\nThe preset study can be the base line for making the\r\ncomparison of the status of Black-necked crane after the\r\nnatural calamities (Cloud burst) which took place recently\r\nin Ladakh during 6th August, 2010.','INTRODUCTION\r\nLadakh is the highest altitude plateau in India, situated\r\nin the state of Jammu and Kashmir between 75°50\' E to 80°\r\nE and 32° 30\' N to 37° N with geographical area of 100000\r\nsq km (Pfister, 2004). Bounded by the two of the world\'s\r\nmightiest mountain ranges, the Karakoram in the north and\r\nthe Great Himalaya in the south, Ladakh is traversed by\r\ntwo other parallel chains, the Ladakh Range and the Zanskar\r\nRange. Ladakh range and Zansker range running in the\r\neast and the west side respectively through Ladakh, divides\r\nit into three main valleys i.e. Zansker valley, Indus valley\r\nand Nubra valley. The Zankser valley lies west to Zansker\r\nrange, the Indus valley sandwiched between Zansker and\r\nLadakh ranges. Nubra valley on the east side of Ladakh\r\nrange crossing the Khardungla pass. Ladakh borders Tibet\r\nto the east, the Lahaul and spiti to the south, the Vale of\r\nKashmir, Jammu and Baltistan regions to the west, and the\r\ntrans-Kunlun territory of East Turkistan in Central Asia on\r\nthe other side of the Karakoram Pass in the far north. It is\r\na land of High Passes. The geographical location of Ladakh\r\nranges from 2,750m high at Kargil to 7,672m high at Saser\r\nKangri in the Karakoram Range. Due to high altitude of\r\nLadakh, the climate is very cold; the air is very thin and\r\nmakes the heat of the sun very severe. This Trans-\r\nHimalayan region has some very large brackish water\r\nnatural lakes e.g. Pangong Tso, Tso Morari, and Tso Kar in\r\nthe Changthang area of Ladakh which is of freshwater\r\norigin. The Ladakh has also some important marshes in\r\nthe Chang Thang region named as Hanle, Chusul, Chumur\r\nand Shey. Apart from these lakes and marshes, it has some\r\nmajor river systems; Shyok and Nubra rivers along the\r\nKarakoram ranges in the north, Indus river systems passing\r\nthrough east to west in entire Ladakh, and three smaller\r\nriver systems such as Zanskar, Suru and Dras with large\r\nnumber of tributaries in the Zanskar ranges towards the\r\nsouth.\r\nBlack-necked crane also known as Tibetan Crane (Grus\r\nnigricolis) is the only high altitude species among the 15\r\nspecies of crane in the world. It was first discovered by a\r\nRussian naturalist, Count Prazewalski near Lake Koko Northeastern\r\nTibet in 1876. This species is generally found in\r\nthe range between altitudes of 3500m to 5500m ASL. The\r\nestimated population of the Black-necked Crane is between\r\n8800 and 11000 individuals. The largest populations are in\r\nChina and Tibet with smaller numbers extending into\r\nVietnam, Bhutan and India (Collar et al. 2001). These birds\r\nare legally protected in China, India and Bhutan. However\r\nhabitat modification, drying of lakes and agriculture are\r\nthreats to the populations.\r\nIn Indian Himalayas it breeds only in Ladakh (Jammu\r\nand Kashmir). It is known as \"State bird of the Kashmir\".\r\nIt was first recorded in Ladakh by the naturalist, F. Ludlow\r\nat Tsokar Lake during 1919 (Ludlow, 1920). A wintering\r\npopulation of 27 birds has been reported from Apatani\r\nvalley of Arunachal-Pradesh in India (Beetis, 1954). There\r\nare the reports of the presence of Black-necked crane\r\ntowards the north and west of Apatani valley. Further, at\r\npresent there are no records of the species in the valley as\r\nit is densely inhabited (Choudhury, 2002). In north Bengal,\r\nthe species was recorded at the Moinabari Forest Beat near\r\nBhutanghat and on the fringe of the Buxa Tiger Reserve\r\n(ibid). In Himalayan region of north-west India Black necked\r\ncranes has a very small population as well as breeding\r\nground in cold desert area of Ladakh in Jammu and\r\nKashmir. The wetlands of Changthang are the only known\r\nnesting sites of the Black-necked crane in India. During\r\nthe present surveys the populations as well as distribution\r\nof Black necked crane is estimated in Ladakh (Changthang\r\nregion).\r\nOBSERVATION\r\nDuring the survey from 16.07.08 to 30.08.08, the various\r\nareas of Indus valley in cold desert Ladakh were surveyed\r\nto make observations on the present status of black necked\r\ncrane (Table 1). In the Changthang area the black-necked\r\ncrane is sighted between altitudes of 3209-4675m ASL. The\r\nmaximum number of cranes was sighted along the Indus\r\nRiver in small marshy patches. As per present observations,\r\nthe area between Nyoma to Chishul has been found to be\r\nBiological Forum — An International Journal, 3(1): 87-90(2011) ISSN : 0975-1130\r\n88 Sharma and Sidhu\r\nquite rich in crane populations. The brackish water Lake\r\ni.e. Tsokar, the freshwater lake Tsigul Tso and the area\r\nbetween Nyoma to Sumdho represents a population of\r\nblack necked crane. The area of Leh to Nyoma and Tsomoriri\r\nto Leh also contains a small population of crane. A total of\r\n53 birds were observed in the present survey (Table-1 &\r\n2). Locality wise in detail sightings has been documented\r\nin (Table 2). The review of the sightings of the bird has\r\nbeen documented in the following table.','Indu Sharma and Avtar Kaur Sidhu (2011). Review and present observations on the Sighting of Black-Necked Crane, Grus nigricollis Przheylsky from Ladakh (Jammu and Kashmir, India). Biological Forum — An International Journal, 3(1): 87-90. '),(4637,'131','Mycoflora and mycotoxins in some important stored crude and\r\npowdered herbal drugs','A.K. Gautam and R. Bhadauria','1 AK gautam.pdf','',1,'Stored samples of crude herbal drugs and processed powders of Emblica officinalis (Amla),\r\nTerminalia bellirica (Baheda), and Terminalia chebula (Haritiki) sold in the market of Gwalior, were\r\nanalyzed on different fungal culture media for the incidence of fungi and their related mycotoxins.\r\nDuring morphological examination of collected samples a remarkable change was observed in the\r\ncolour and appearance of fruit and powdered samples. About 88% of the fruits and powdered\r\nsamples were found to be contaminated with 1199 isolates of different fungi belonging to the genera\r\nAspergillus, Penicillium,Helminthosporium, Rhizopus, Syncephalastrum, Alternaria, and Curvularaia.\r\nA total of 11 fungal species classified under five different genera were isolated from the fruit samples,\r\nwhereas, only nine species belonging to five different genera were isolated from the powdered\r\nsamples. About 25% of fruits and 12.5% of powdered samples were found contaminated with\r\ndifferent mycotoxins like aflatoxins, citrinin, and sterigmatocystin. The presence of toxigenic fungi\r\nand mycotoxins may make these crude as well as powdered herbal drugs hazardous for human\r\nhealth. Therefore, prior to their use, one needs to assure the quality control and decontamination of\r\nthese herbal drug preparations.','Herbal drugs, fungal contamination, mycotoxins, Aspergillus','The presence of mycotoxin producing fungal\r\nspecies of Aspergillus, Penicillium, Alternaria,\r\nHelminthosporium, in stored fruit and\r\npowdered market samples of Emblica\r\nofficinalis (Amla), Terminalia bellirica\r\n(Baheda), and Terminalia chebula (Haritiki)\r\nrevealed that these herbal drugs are not\r\nacceptable for human consumption. Presence\r\nof Aflatoxins is also a matter of great concern\r\nbecause once the raw materials are\r\ncontaminated with aflatoxin they are not fit for\r\nuse. Because, even routine boiling will also\r\nnot be able to detoxify them since aflatoxins\r\nhave been reported to be heat stable up to\r\n269oC (Frazier and Westhoff, 1988). The\r\npersons who are involved in harvesting,\r\nstorage, processing and post processed storage\r\nof these herbal drugs are required to take\r\nstringent precautions in order to present the\r\nuser with healthy and potential herbal drugs.','Herbal drug is a preparation of stem, bark,\r\nroot, rhizome, leaves, flowers, fruits and seeds\r\nof medicinal plants, used to prevent and treat\r\ndiseases of humankind. Over 8000 plant\r\nspecies have been reported to prepare some\r\n25,000 formulations, to treat various ailments\r\n(Dubey, 2004). Herbal drugs are preferred to\r\ncure diseases because of better cultural\r\nacceptability, compatibility with the human\r\nbody with lesser side effects (Kamboj, 2000).\r\nConsidering the adverse effects of synthetic\r\ndrugs the western populations are now looking\r\nfor natural remedies, which are safe and\r\neffective (Shivanna, 2004 ). Fruits of Emblica\r\nofficinalis Gaertn. (Amla), Terminalia\r\nbellirica (Gaertn.) Roxb. (Baheda) and\r\nTerminalia chebula Retz. (Haritiki)are used in\r\ntraditional Ayurvedic medicine, while the\r\nmixture of these three fruits named as Trifla\r\nchurn, is prescribed for the various stomach\r\nproblems like constipation or indigestion,\r\ndyspepsia, anemia, impurity of blood,\r\nhyperlipidaemia, skin diseases, excessive heat,\r\nand irritation of eyes (Juss, 1997). Raw\r\nmaterials of this medicinally important drug\r\nare stored under unhygienic conditions after\r\nharvesting, before marketing or further\r\nprocessing. The unscientific methods of\r\nharvesting, collection, storage of raw\r\nmaterials, processing and poor storage of\r\nherbal drugs, retailed in market openly in\r\nunhygienic conditions, are the main causes\r\nconsidered to make both, raw materials as well\r\nas herbal drugs prone to fungal infections\r\n(Essono et al., 2007). The fungal contaminates\r\nhas been reported to affect the chemical\r\ncomposition of the raw materials and thereby,\r\ndecreases the medicinal potency of the herbal\r\ndrugs (Roy, 2003), whereas secondary\r\nmetabolites produced by these fungal\r\ncontaminants causes several ailments of liver,\r\nkidney, nervous system, muscular, skin,\r\nrespiratory organs, digestive tract, genital\r\norgans, etc. (Durakovic et al., 1989,\r\nMuntanola, 1987 and Purchase, 1974). The\r\npresent study is an effort to identify the\r\ncontaminants of crude and powdered herbal\r\ndrugs, especially fungal flora which can be\r\ntoxic to human health, if any.\r\nBiological Forum – An International Journal, 1(1): 1-7 (2009)\r\nA.K. Gautam and R. Bhaduria 2\r\nMATERIALS AND METHODS\r\nSample Collection\r\nA total of 25 sun dried freshly stored fruit\r\nsamples of and 25 Powdered of E. officinalis),\r\nT. bellirica and T. chebula were collected in\r\nlate December, 2007 and January, 2008 from\r\ndifferent sites of Gwalior city. These samples\r\nwere stored at room temperature after the\r\ncollection. All the collected (Fruit and\r\npowdered) samples were examined\r\nmorphologically with the help of magnifying\r\nlens and fungal flora was isolated on different\r\nculture media.\r\nMycological analysis\r\nEnumeration of fungi was performed by pour\r\nplating method for powdered and small pieces\r\nof fruit samples were inoculated, using potatodextrose\r\nagar (PDA) and Czapek dox agar\r\nmedia (Mandeel, 2005). The culture plates\r\nwere incubated upside down at 28 ± 2 ºC for\r\n5-7 days and observations were recorded at\r\nvarious intervals. Pure culture of different\r\nisolated fungi were prepared by transferring\r\nthe isolated colony on Czapek dox agar media\r\nculture media with the help of inoculating loop\r\nand incubated for 4-5 days.\r\nIdentification of fungi\r\nAfter 6-7 days of inoculation, fungi growing\r\non fruit and powdered samples were isolated\r\nand identified primarily on the basis of their\r\nmorphological and cultural characteristics and\r\nthen stained with lactophenol cotton blue and\r\nidentified microscopically with reference to\r\nstandard texts (Ananthanarayan and Paniker,\r\n1999, Gilman, 1975). The percent relative\r\ndensity of different fungal species isolated in\r\neach sample was calculated (Agrawal et al.,\r\n1980; Verma and Dubey, 2001). Percent\r\nfrequency of occurrence of mycobiota on\r\nindividual raw materials of herbal drug\r\nsamples was also calculated by the method of\r\nMandeel (2005).\r\nMycotoxins analysis\r\nAbout fifty gram (50 gm) of the fruit and\r\npowdered samples were finely ground,\r\nextracted with chloroform following the\r\nmethod of extraction as described by Singh\r\n(1988). Of the extracted samples 50μl of\r\nchloroform extract were spotted on TLC plates\r\n(20×20 cm glass plates, coated with 0.25mm\r\nlayer thickness of silica gel G). The\r\nchromatogram was developed at room\r\ntemperature, in TLC chamber containing a\r\nsolvent system composed of benzene,\r\nmethanol and acetic acid (24:2:1).\r\nVisualization was performed under UV light\r\nat 365 nm (Singh, 1988). Qualitative detection\r\nof mycotoxins was done on the basis of their\r\nfluorescence and Rf values (Scott et al., 1970).\r\nRESULTS AND DISCUSSION\r\nMorphological Examination\r\nDuring morphological examination of\r\ncollected samples a remarkable change was\r\nobserved in the colour and appearance of fruit\r\nand powdered samples. Black spots were\r\nobserved on the surface of old stored fruit\r\nsamples as compared to freshly collected\r\nsamples. A change in the colour and texture\r\nwas observed in case of the powdered\r\nsamples. Light brown and light greenish\r\ncolour with fine powdered form was observed\r\nin fresh samples of Amla, Baheda and Haritiki\r\npowders, whereas solid clumps with darker\r\nshade were appeared in the old stored samples.\r\nMycological Analysis\r\nAbout 88% fruits and powdered samples of E.\r\nofficinalis (Amla), T. bellirica (Baheda), and\r\nT. chebula (Haritiki) were found to be\r\ncontaminated with 1199 different fungal\r\nisolates. The isolated species of fungi\r\nbelonging to the genera Aspergillus,\r\nPenicillium, Helminthosporium, Rhizopus,\r\nSyncephalastrum, Alternaria, and\r\nCurvularaia. Aspergillus and Penicillium\r\nwere the most common fungal genera found in\r\nboth, raw and powdered samples.\r\nFungi associated with Fruit samples\r\nA total of 309 fungal isolates were recorded\r\nfrom 25 fruit samples, out of which 131\r\nisolates were recorded from T. bellirica and 94\r\nfrom T. chebula. On the other hand, about 84\r\nisolates were from E. officinalis. A total of 11\r\nfungal species classified under 5 genera\r\nisolated from the fruit samples, which\r\n3 Biological Forum – An International Journal, 1(1): 1-7 (2009)\r\nincluded 2 species of Zygomycotina, 9 species\r\nof Ascomycotina and remaining one was from\r\nDeuteromycotina. The species are listed in\r\ntable 1 along with their colony forming unit\r\n(CFU) per gram of sample and their\r\npercentage frequency. The mzximum number\r\nof species belonged to the genus Aspergillus,\r\nwith six species viz. A. niger, A. flavus, A.\r\nfumigatus, A. parasiticus, A. versicolor, and A.\r\nnidulens, while three species to Penicillium\r\nnamely P. rubrum, P. citrinum and P.\r\nchrysogenum and only one species of each viz.\r\nHelminthosporium, Curvularaia, Alternaria\r\nand Rhizopus were observed.\r\nRelative density of fungal species (% age)\r\nwas calculated to determine the abundance of\r\nisolated genus among all fruit samples. The\r\nhighest percentage of relative density was\r\nshown by A. niger (42.39%), followed by A.\r\nflavus (17.79%) and A. fumigatus (15.85%), A.\r\nparasiticus and Penicillium rubrum (5.17%\r\neach) among the fruit samples. The lowest\r\nrelative density was recorded in the range of\r\n4.85-0.97% (Figure 1).\r\nFungi associated with powdered samples\r\nA total of 890 fungal isolates were recorded\r\nfrom 25 powdered samples, out of which\r\nmaximum number of isolates were recorded\r\nfrom E. officinalis (452), followed by T.\r\nbellirica (286), where as 152 were recorded\r\nfrom T. chebula. Altogether nine species\r\nbelonging to five genera were isolated from\r\nthe powdered samples which included one\r\nspecies from Zygomycotina, six species from\r\nAscomycotina and remaining two species of\r\nDeuteromycotina. The results presented in\r\ntable 2 shows the fungal species along with\r\ntheir colony forming unit (CFU) per gram of\r\nsample with their percentage frequency\r\nisolated from powdered samples. The genus\r\nAspergillus and Penicillium were two most\r\npredominant genera encountered, with three\r\nspecies each, while all remaining fungi had\r\nonly one species. Among all the samples,\r\nhighest percentage of relative density was\r\nshown by A. niger (29.88%), followed by P\r\ncitrinum (27.86%), P. rubrum (12.356%) and\r\nA. parasiticus (12.11%) and A. flavus (6.74%).\r\nThe lowest relative density ranged from 4.49-\r\n0.11% (Figure 1).\r\nMycotoxins analysis\r\nIn the present study, we analysed the fruit and\r\npowdered samples of Emblica officinalis\r\n(Amla), Terminalia bellirica (Baheda), and\r\nTerminalia chebula (Haritiki) for the natural\r\noccurrence of mycotoxins during their storage.\r\nDuring mycotoxin assay, fluorescent colors on\r\nTLC indicate the presence of six mycotoxins,\r\nin which blue colors refer to aflatoxin B, green\r\nfor aflatoxin G, yellow for citrinin, while\r\norange or red may indicate the presence of\r\nsterigmatocystin (Scott et al., 1970). The\r\nresults revealed that 48% fruit samples and\r\n28% powdered samples were found\r\ncontaminated with different mycotoxins\r\n(figure 2). Highest percentage of baheda fruits\r\n(50%) was found contaminated with AFB2\r\nmycotoxin, whereas, in amla and hatiritki the\r\npercentage of contaminated fruits was 11.11 &\r\n13% respectively, on the other hand it was\r\n25% in powdered samples of baheda.\r\nSimultaneously, AFB1 & G2 mycotoxins were\r\ndetected in 22.22% of Amla fruits. Maximum\r\n37.5% & 25% samples of powdered baheda\r\nwere showing the presence of\r\nSterigmatocystin and AFB1 mycotoxins,\r\nrespectively. Only 12.5 % samples of baheda\r\n(fruits & powder) and haritiki powder have\r\nshown the presence of Citrinin mycotoxin.\r\nAmong all fruits and powdered samples, AfG1\r\nwas detected only in 12.5% Haritki Powdered\r\nsamples (Figure 2).\r\nThe incidence of various moulds and\r\nmycotoxins in raw fruit and powdered samples\r\nrevealed that fungi contaminate the herbal\r\ndrugs during storage of raw materials as well\r\nas during the storage of processed final\r\nproducts (Eufuntoye, 2004, Bugno et al.,\r\n2006).The findings shows that the raw\r\nmaterial are heavily contaminated by different\r\nfungal species, some of which are toxigenic.\r\nLong term storage of phytomedicines and their\r\nraw materials, in unfavorable conditions is one\r\nof the greatest factors, to promote fungal\r\ncontamination of herbal drugs. During the\r\nsurvey it was observed that botanical raw\r\nmaterials or these processed products are\r\nstored under uncontrolled environmental\r\nconditions like temperature, moisture and\r\nrelative humidity over the years, and often\r\ncontain a mixture of other plant raw materials,\r\nA.K. Gautam and R. Bhaduria 4\r\nthus adversely affecting their bioefficacy and\r\npromote fungal contamination. There are\r\nseveral fungal genera which are contaminating\r\nherbal drugs during storage. The presence of a\r\nwide range of storage fungi in herbal drugs\r\nindicates that considerable improvements\r\ncould be made during harvest, drying,\r\nprocessing and post processing storage\r\n(Giridhar and Ready, 1997; Hitokoto et al.,\r\n1978; Aziz et al., 1998; Dutta and Roy, 1987;\r\nChauhan, 2004). Most of the identified fungal\r\nspecies in this study like Aspergillus,\r\nPenicillium, Helminthosporium and Alternaria\r\nare reported to have ability to produce various\r\nmycotoxins, such as aflatoxins, ochratoxins,\r\nhelminthosporium toxins, in medicinal herbs\r\n(Hitokoto et al., 1978; Aziz et al., 1998;\r\nBugno et al., 2006). The presence of\r\nAflatoxins, citrinin and sterigmatocystin in\r\nherbal drug samples analysed under present\r\ninvestigation, indicates the hazardous nature\r\nof these herbal drugs, which can be harmful to\r\nthe users. Aflatoxin is reported to cause\r\naflatoxicosis, a toxic hepatitis leading to\r\njaundice which in severe cases proves fatal\r\n(Shephard, 2004; Lewis et al., 2005).','A.K. Gautam and R. Bhadauria (2009). Mycoflora and mycotoxins in some important stored crude and powdered herbal drugs. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 1(1): 1-7.'),(4638,'131','Effect of storage containers on seed germination and viability in\r\nAconitum heterophyllum and Podophyllum hexandrum - endangered\r\nmedicinal plants species of Himalayan region','Narender Kumar Verma, Anil Kumar Verma and Dharminder Kumar','2 NK Verma.pdf','',1,'The experiment was conducted to study the effect of different storage containers under complete\r\ndarkness and partial light. The study revealed that maximum germination (92%), viability (95%),\r\ngermination speed (1.58), germination energy (70.0%) were recorded in polybags under complete\r\ndarkness in Aconitum heterophyllum wall ex. Royle while minimum were recorded under partial light\r\nin cloth bags. Similarly, in case of Podophyllum hexandrum same results were obtained.','Storage containers, complete darkness, partial shade','The experiment was conducted to study the effect of different storage containers under complete\r\ndarkness and partial light. The study revealed that maximum germination (92%), viability (95%),\r\ngermination speed (1.58), germination energy (70.0%) were recorded in polybags under complete\r\ndarkness in Aconitum heterophyllum wall ex. Royle while minimum were recorded under partial light\r\nin cloth bags. Similarly, in case of Podophyllum hexandrum same results were obtained.','Proper storage of seed is an important sequel\r\nto the production of seed. The successful\r\ncultivation in any cultivated crop is\r\ndetermined to a large extent by germinability\r\nand viability of the seeds. There is no\r\npertinent information about germination of\r\nAconitum and Podophyllum plant species.\r\nTherefore, it is of great significance to take up\r\nthe research work on storage to develop best\r\nstorage material to commercialize these crops\r\nsuitable for growing in the high altitude region\r\nof Himalayas.\r\nMATERIALS AND METHODS\r\nThe experiment was conducted to see the\r\neffect of storage container on germination and\r\nviability of Aconitum and Podophyllum. Eight\r\ntreatment comprises four storage containers\r\nviz. polythene bags, paper bags, cloth bags\r\nand plastic containers and two storage\r\ncondition (complete darkness and partial light)\r\nto store freshly harvested seeds for six months,\r\nreplicated thrice and experiment was laid out\r\nin complete randomized block design.\r\nObservations were recorded on germination\r\npercentage, germination energy (%),\r\ngermination speed as given by Megure (1962)\r\nand viability percentage. The data recorded\r\nwas subjected to statistical analysis as\r\ndescribed by Gomez and Gomez (1984). The\r\nanalysis of variance was done by the method\r\ndescribed by Fisher. For the present study,\r\nseeds of Aconitum heterophyllum and\r\nPodophyllum hexandrum were collected from\r\ntheir natural place of occurrence from Rahla,\r\nGulaba and Marhi areas of Manali in Kullu\r\ndistrict of Himachal Pradesh.\r\nRESULTS AND DISCUSSION\r\ni) Effect of different storage methods on\r\nseed viability of Aconitum heterophyllum\r\nWall ex Royle\r\nFour types of storage containers namely\r\npolythene bags, paper bags, cloth bags and\r\nplastic containers were placed in complete\r\ndarkness and partial light assessed for their\r\neffect on germination and viability percentage\r\nfor Aconitum heterophyllum and Podophyllum\r\nhexandrum seed under storage. The data in\r\nTable 1 revealed that maximum germination\r\n(92.0%) was recorded in the seeds stored in\r\nS1CD closed followed by S2CD (91.7%), S5PL\r\n(91.3%), S6PL (91.0%) and 90.0 per cent in\r\nthe S4CD stored seeds which were found\r\nstatistically at par with each other. However,\r\nBiological Forum – An International Journal, 1(1): 8-11 (2009)\r\nNarender Kumar Verma, et al. 9\r\nthe lower germination of 71.3 per cent was\r\nrecorded in S7PL stored seeds which was\r\nfound significantly lower from other\r\ntreatments. Similarly, germination of 85.0 per\r\ncent was recorded in S8PL and 78.0 per cent\r\nin S3CD stored seeds which were significantly\r\ndifferent from each other (Table 1).\r\nAs regards the germination energy, it was\r\nalso recorded maximum of 70.0 per cent in\r\nS1CD closely followed by 69.3 per cent in\r\nS2CD, 68.7 per cent each in S5PL and S6PL\r\ncontainers which were found statistically at\r\npar with each other while the significantly\r\nlower i.e. 50.0 per cent each germination\r\nenergy was recorded in S3CD and S7PL\r\ncontainers stored seeds. Similarly 64.7 per\r\ncent was recorded in S4CD and 60.7 per cent\r\nin S8PL which was at par with each other. The\r\ngermination energy period ranged between 12\r\nto 15 days.\r\nRegarding the germination speed, it was\r\nalso recorded maximum (1.59) in S1CD\r\nfollowed by 1.56 in S2CD and 1.54 each in S5\r\nand S6PL containers which were found\r\nstatistically at par with each other while the\r\nminimum (1.11) germination speed was\r\nrecorded in S7PL stored seeds which was\r\nstatistically at par with 1.18 in S3CD\r\ntreatment. Similarly, 1.50 in S4CD was at par\r\nwith 1.37 in S8PL. The germination speed was\r\nrecorded upto 24 days.\r\nAs regards the viability percentage, it was\r\nalso found maximum (95.0%) in S1CD\r\nfollowed by 94.0 per cent in S2CD, 93.7 per\r\ncent in S6PL, 93.3 per cent in S5PL and 93.0\r\nper cent in S4CD stored seeds which however,\r\nwere found statistsically at par with each\r\nother. The minimum of 75.3 viability per cent\r\nwas recorded in S7PL stored seeds. Similarly,\r\n87.0 per cent viability was recorded in S8\r\ntreatment followed by 81.3 per cent in S3\r\nwhich was significantly lower than former\r\nvalue but was higher than S7.\r\nii) Effect of different storage methods on\r\nseed viability of Podophyllum hexandrum\r\nRoyle\r\nThe data presented in Table 2 revealed that\r\nmaximum germination of 78.0 per cent was\r\nrecorded in seeds stored in S1CD closely\r\nfollowed by 77.3 per cent in S5PL, 76.7 per\r\ncent in S4CD, 76.0 per cent in S2CD and 75.3\r\nper cent in S6PL stored seeds which were\r\nfound statistically at par with each other\r\n(Table 2). Similarly, 74.7 per cent\r\ngermination was recorded in S8PL and 60.0\r\nper cent in S3CD which was significantly\r\nhigher than former values but was\r\nsignificantly higher than 53.7 per cent in S7PL\r\nstored seeds which was the lowest value.\r\nAs regards the germination energy, it was\r\nalso recorded maximum of 58.0 per cent in\r\nS1CD followed by 56.7 per cent in S6PL, 56.0\r\nper cent in S8PL and 54.0 per cent in S4PL\r\nstored seeds which were found statistically at\r\npar with each other, while the lowest of 28.0\r\nper cent germination energy was recorded in\r\nS7PL stored seeds which was however, found\r\nat par with 30.0 per cent in S3CD stored seeds.\r\nThe germination energy period ranged\r\nbetween 40 to 45 days.\r\nRegarding the germination speed, it was\r\nalso recorded maximum of 0.58 in S1CD\r\nfollowed by 0.57 each in S4CD and S5PL, 0.56\r\neach in S2CD and S6PL stored seeds, which\r\nwere found statistically at par with each other.\r\nThe minimum (0.37) germination speed was\r\nrecorded in S7PL stored seeds which was\r\nsignificantly lower than other treatments. The\r\ngermination period was observed upto 60\r\ndays.\r\nThe viability percentage was also recorded\r\nmaximum of 81.7 per cent in S1CD closely\r\nfollowed by 81.0 per cent in S4CD, 80.7 per\r\ncent in S5PL, 79.0 per cent in S2CD and 78.7\r\nper cent in S6PL stored seeds which were\r\nfound statistically at par with each other while\r\nminimum of 57.0 viability percentage was\r\nrecorded in S7PL stored seeds which was\r\nfound to be significantly lower than other\r\ntreatments.The maximum germination and\r\nviability percentage in both the species under\r\npolythene bags, paper bags and plastic\r\ncontainers may be probably due to\r\nmaintenance of proper moisture content and\r\nexchange of gases in the seeds which also\r\nhelps in maintaining proper level of sugars and\r\nstarches etc. which are required for good\r\ngermination and growth of seedlings. These\r\nresults are in line of those of Ahmed et al.\r\n(1992) with Albizia chinensis and Chand\r\n(1994) in Toona ciliata. Low viability of cloth\r\n10 Biological Forum – An International Journal, 1(1): 8-11 (2009)\r\nbags stored seeds is due to the reduction in the\r\nseed moisture during storage which reduced\r\nthe seed longevity. The low germination\r\nability and viability of seeds in storage in the\r\ncloth bags in the present study may be due to\r\nthe changes in the physiochemical state of\r\nseeds particularly the seed metabolism due to\r\nthe reduction in moisture content. The\r\nchanges in seed metabolism are reported as\r\none of the major factors for low seed\r\ngermination and viability (Abdul Baki, 1980)','Narender Kumar Verma, Anil Kumar Verma and Dharminder Kumar (2009). Effect of storage containers on seed germination and viability in\r\nAconitum heterophyllum and Podophyllum hexandrum - endangered\r\nmedicinal plants species of Himalayan region. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 1(1): 8-11.'),(4639,'131','Current status of herbal drugs and their future perspectives','S. Zeeshan Hasan, Vedant Misra, Swati Singh, Garvita Arora,\r\nSunita Sharma and Sarika Sharma','3 Zeesan.pdf','',1,'Traditional medicine is the synthesis of therapeutic experience of generations of practicing\r\nphysicians of indigenous systems of medicine. Throughout the history of mankind, many infectious\r\ndiseases have been treated with herbals. The traditional medicine is increasingly solicited through the\r\ntradipractitioners and herbalists in the treatment of infectious diseases. Among the remedies used,\r\nplant drugs constitute an important part. A number of scientific investigations have highlighted the\r\nimportance and the contribution of many plant families i.e. Asteraceae, Liliaceae, Apocynaceae,\r\nSolanaceae, Caesalpinaceae, Rutaceae, Piperaceae, Sapotaceae used as medicinal plants. Medicinal\r\nplants play a vital role for the development of new drugs (export and import diverse parts or\r\nbioactive compounds in the current market). The bioactive extract should be standardized on the\r\nbasis of active compound. The bioactive extract should undergo limited safety studies.','herbals, infectious disease, medicinal plants','Determining the biological (activity)\r\nproperties of plants used in traditional\r\nmedicine is helpful to the rural communities\r\nand informal settlements. Several authors are\r\ncurrently being undertaken to isolate the active\r\ncompound(s) by bioassay-guided fractionation\r\nfrom the species that showed high biological\r\nactivity during screening. Therefore, these\r\nscientific investigations may be utilized to\r\ndevelop drugs for these diseases. Further\r\nresearch is deserved to isolate the compounds\r\nresponsible for the observed biological\r\nactivity.','India is one of the 12 mega biodiversity\r\ncenters having 45, 000 plant species; its\r\ndiversity is unmatched due to the 16 different\r\nagroclaimatic zones, 10 vegetative zones, and\r\n15 biotic provinces. The country has a rich\r\nfloral diversity (Table 1). Traditional medicine\r\nis the synthesis of therapeutic experience of\r\ngenerations of practicing physicians of\r\nindigenous systems of medicine. Traditional\r\npreparation comprises medicinal plants,\r\nminerals and organic matters etc. Herbal drug\r\nconstitutes only those traditional medicines\r\nthat primarily use medicinal plant preparations\r\nfor therapy. The ancient record is evidencing\r\ntheir use by Indian, Chinese, Egyptian, Greek,\r\nRoman and Syrian dates back to about 5000\r\nyears (Table 2). About 500 plants with\r\nmedicinal use are mentioned in ancient texts\r\nand around 800 plants have been used in\r\nindigenous systems of medicine. Indian\r\nsubcontinent is a vast repository of medicinal\r\nplants that are used in traditional medical\r\ntreatments (Chopra et al., 1956), which also\r\nforms a rich source of knowledge. The various\r\nindigenous systems such as Siddha, Ayurveda,\r\nUnani and Allopathy use several plant species\r\nto treat different ailments (Rabe and Staden,\r\n1997). In India around 20,000 medicinal plant\r\nspecies have been recorded recently (Dev,\r\n1997), but more than 500 traditional\r\ncommunities use about 800 plant species for\r\ncuring different diseases (Kamboj, 2000).\r\nCurrently 80 % of the world population\r\ndepends on plant-derived medicine for the first\r\nline of primary health care for human\r\nalleviation because it has no side effects.\r\nPlants are important sources of medicines and\r\npresently about 25% of pharmaceutical\r\nprescriptions in the United States contain at\r\nleast one plant-derived ingredient. In the last\r\ncentury, roughly 121 pharmaceutical products\r\nwere formulated based on the traditional\r\nknowledge obtained from various sources.\r\nModern medicine from higher plants\r\nMedicinal plants play a vital role for the\r\ndevelopment of new drugs. During 1950-1970\r\napproximately 100 plants based new drugs\r\nwere introduced in the USA drug market\r\nincluding deserpidine, reseinnamine,\r\nreserpine, vinblastine and vincristine which\r\nare derived from higher plants. From 1971 to\r\n1990 new drugs such as ectoposide, Eguggulsterone,\r\nteniposide, nabilone, plaunotol,\r\nZ-guggulsterone, lectinan, artemisinin and\r\nginkgolides appeared all over the world. 2% of\r\nBiological Forum – An International Journal, 1(1): 12 -17 (2009)\r\nS. Zeeshan Hasan et al. 13\r\ndrugs were introduced from 1991 to 1995\r\nincluding paciltaxel, toptecan, gomishin,\r\nirinotecan etc. Plant based drugs provide\r\noutstanding contribution to modern\r\ntherapeutics; for example: serpentine isolated\r\nfrom the root of Indian plant Rauwolfia\r\nserpentina in 1953, was a revolutionary event\r\nin the treatment of hypertension and lowering\r\nof blood pressure. Vinblastine isolated from\r\nthe Catharanthus rosesus (Farnsworth and\r\nBlowster, 1967) is used for the treatment of\r\nHodgkins, choriocarcinoma, non-hodgkins\r\nlymphomas, leukemia in children, testicular\r\nand neck cancer. Vincristine is recommended\r\nfor acute lymphocytic leukemia in childhood\r\nadvanced stages of hodgkins,\r\nlymophosarcoma, small cell lung, cervical and\r\nbreast cancer. (Farnsworth and Bingel, 1977).\r\nPhophyllotoxin is a constituent of\r\nPhodophyllum emodi currently used against\r\ntesticular, small cell lung cancer and\r\nlymphomas. Indian indigenous tree of\r\nNothapodytes nimmoniana (Mappia foetida)\r\nare mostly used in Japan for the treatment of\r\ncervical cancer (Table 3). Plant derived drugs\r\nare used to cure mental illness, skin diseases,\r\ntuberculosis, diabetes, jaundice, hypertension\r\nand cancer. Medicinal plants play an important\r\nrole in the development of potent therapeutic\r\nagents. Plant derived drugs came into use in\r\nthe modern medicine through the uses of plant\r\nmaterial as indigenous cure in folklore or\r\ntraditional systems of medicine. More than 64\r\nplants have been found to possess significant\r\nantibacterial properties; and more than 24\r\nplants have been found to possess antidiabetic\r\nproperties, antimicrobial studies of plants\r\n(Perumal Samy and Ignacimuthu, 1998), plant\r\nfor antiodotes activity - Daboia russellii and\r\nNaja kaouthia venom neutralization by lupeol\r\nacetate isolated from the root extract of Indian\r\nsarsaparilla Hemidesmus indicus R.Br\r\n(Chatterjee, et al., 2006). Which effectively\r\nneutralized Daboia russellii venom induced\r\npathophysiological changes (Alam et al.,\r\n1994). The present investigation explores the\r\nisolation and purification of another active\r\ncompound from the methanolic root extract of\r\nHemidesmus indicus, which was responsible\r\nfor snake venom neutralization. Antagonism\r\nof both viper and cobra venom and antiserum\r\naction potentiation, antioxidant property of the\r\nactive compound was studied in experimental\r\nanimals. Recently, (Chatterjee et al., 2004)\r\nfrom this laboratory reported that an active\r\ncompound from the Strychnus nux vomica\r\nseed extract, inhibited viper venom induced\r\nlipid peroxidation in experimental animals.\r\nThe mechanism of action of the plant derived\r\nmicro molecules induced venom neutralization\r\nneed further attention, for the development of\r\nplant-derived therapeutic antagonist against\r\nsnakebite for the community in need.\r\nHowever, the toxicity of plants has known for\r\na long period of time, and the history of these\r\ntoxic plants side by side with medicinal ones\r\nare very old and popular worldwide, they\r\nconsidered the major natural source of folk\r\nmedication and toxication even after arising of\r\nrecent chemical synthesis of the active\r\nconstituents contained by these plants\r\n(Adailkan and Gauthaman, 2001; Heinrich,\r\n2000; Pfister et al., 2002).\r\nTeniposide and etoposide isolated from\r\nPodophyllum species are used for testicular\r\nand lung cancer. Taxol isolated from Taxus\r\nbrevifolius is used for the treatment of\r\nmetastatic ovarian cancer and lung cancer. The\r\nabove drugs came into use through the\r\nscreening study of medicinal plants because\r\nthey showed fewer side effects, were cost\r\neffective and possessed better compatibility.\r\nMarket potential of phytomedicine\r\nThe estimation of total phytomedicine sale\r\nreported in country wise European Union was\r\nabout US$ 6 billion in 1991 and $ 4 billion in\r\n1996, of which almost half were sold in\r\nGermany $ 3 billion, in France $ 1.6 billion, in\r\nItaly $ 0.6 billion and in Japan $ 1.5 billion.\r\nThe present global market is said to be US 250\r\nbillion (Brower et al., 1998). In India the sale\r\nof total herbal products is estimated at $ 1\r\nbillion and the export of herbal crude extract is\r\nabout $ 80 million, of which 50% is\r\ncontributed by Ayurvedic classical\r\npreparations. Plant derived drugs are\r\nimportant in Germany and Russia.\r\nParticularly, herbal drugs are imported by\r\nseveral countries for their usage of traditional\r\nmedicinal preparation from various parts of\r\nthe country. Some of the important Indian\r\n14 Biological Forum – An International Journal, 1(1): 12 -17 (2009)\r\nmedicinal plants exported to various countries\r\nare reported (Table 4.).\r\nRole of World Health Organization (WHO)\r\nin phytomedicine medicine\r\nIn 1991 WHO developed guidelines for the\r\nassessment of herbal medicine, and the 6th\r\nInternational Conference of Drug Regulatory\r\nAuthorities held at Ottawa in the same year\r\nratified the same. The salient features of WHO\r\nguidelines are: 1). Quality assessment: Crude\r\nplant materials or extract plant preparation and\r\nfinished product. 2). Stability: Shelf life. 3).\r\nSafety assessment: Documentation of safety\r\nbased on experience and toxicological studies.\r\n4). Assessment of efficacy: Documented\r\nevidence of traditional use and activity\r\ndetermination (Animals and human).\r\nStandardization of phytomedicine\r\nIn the traditional system of medicine, the\r\ndrugs are primarily dispensed as aqueous or\r\nethanol extract. Fresh plant juice or crude\r\nextract are a rarity rather than a rule. The\r\nmedicinal plants should be authentic and free\r\nfrom harmful materials like pesticides, heavy\r\nmetals, and microbial and radioactive\r\ncontamination. The medicinal plant should be\r\nsingle solvent extraction once or repeatedly or\r\naqueous extract or as described in the ancient\r\ntexts. The extract should be then checked for\r\nbiological activity in experimental animal\r\nmodels. The bioactive extract should be\r\nstandardized on the basis of active compound\r\n(Table 5). The bioactive extract should\r\nundergo limited safety studies.\r\nNew sources of tribal medicine for future\r\ninvestigation\r\nTribal healers in most of the countries, where\r\nethnomedical treatment is frequently used to\r\ntreat cut wounds, skin infection, swelling,\r\naging, mental illness, cancer, asthma, diabetes,\r\njaundice, scabies, eczema, venereal diseases,\r\nsnakebite and gastric ulcer, provide\r\ninstructions to local people as how to prepare\r\nmedicine from herbal (Puspangadan and Atal,\r\n1984; Perumal Samy and Ignacimuthu, 1998).\r\nThey keep no records and the information is\r\nmainly passed on verbally from generation to\r\ngeneration (Dhar et al., 1968; Sofowara,\r\n1982). World Health Organization (WHO) has\r\nshown great interest in documenting the use of\r\nmedicinal plants used by tribals from different\r\nparts of the world (Kaido et al., 1987; WHA,\r\n1977). Many developing countries have\r\nintensified their efforts in documenting the\r\nethnomedical data on medicinal plants.\r\nResearch to find out scientific evidence for\r\nclaims by tribal healers on Indian herbs has\r\nbeen intensified. Once these local\r\nethnomedical preparations are scientifically\r\nevaluated and disseminated properly, people\r\nwill be better informed regarding efficacious\r\ndrug treatment and improved health status\r\n(Manandhar, 1987).','S. Zeeshan Hasan, Vedant Misra, Swati Singh, Garvita Arora,\r\nSunita Sharma and Sarika Sharma (2009). Current status of herbal drugs and their future perspectives. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 1(1): 12 -17. '),(4640,'131','Effect of epidemiological parameters on the development of red stele of\r\nstrawberry','Meenu Gupta and L.N. Bhardwaj','4 MEENA GUPTA.pdf','',1,'Red stele, caused by Phytophthora fragariae Hickman, is one of the most destructive soil- borne\r\ndiseases of strawberry wherever it is cultivated commercially in the world. While studying the effect\r\nof edaphic factors such as soil temperature, soil moisture, soil pH and soil type, it was found that high\r\nsoil moisture (>75%), low temperature (15oC) and soils with slightly acidic pH (5.5) with sandy loam\r\ntexture were found highly conducive for the development and spread of red stele disease causing\r\n70.37, 66.30, 64.37 and 67.03 percent mortality of the runners 60 days after pathogen inoculation.','Red stele, Phytophthora fragariae, epidemiology, soil temperature, moisture, pH,\r\nsoil types','Red stele, caused by Phytophthora fragariae Hickman, is one of the most destructive soil- borne\r\ndiseases of strawberry wherever it is cultivated commercially in the world. While studying the effect\r\nof edaphic factors such as soil temperature, soil moisture, soil pH and soil type, it was found that high\r\nsoil moisture (>75%), low temperature (15oC) and soils with slightly acidic pH (5.5) with sandy loam\r\ntexture were found highly conducive for the development and spread of red stele disease causing\r\n70.37, 66.30, 64.37 and 67.03 percent mortality of the runners 60 days after pathogen inoculation.','Red stele of strawberry caused by\r\nPhytophthora fragariae Hickman is one of\r\nmajor factors limiting fruit production in most\r\nparts of the world. This disease is causing\r\nsignificant damage to the strawberry crop in\r\nHimachal Pradesh under favourable\r\nconditions. The fungus infects the roots and\r\nmakes the plant to stunt and wilt. High soil\r\nmoisture coupled with low temperature\r\nfavours the development and spread of disease\r\n(Morita, 1975 and Montgomerie, 1977).\r\nHowever, the current knowledge on the\r\ndisease with regard to weather parameters\r\nunder Indian conditions is lacking. The present\r\nstudy was therefore, planned to determine the\r\nrole of edaphic factors such as temperature,\r\nmoisture, pH and soil types on the\r\ndevelopment of red stele of strawberry.\r\nMATERIALS AND METHODS\r\nStandardized pot-inoculation technique was\r\nused to study the influence of soil temperature,\r\nmoisture, pH and soil types on the\r\ndevelopment of red stele of strawberry. Three\r\nstrawberry runners of susceptible variety,\r\n‘Chandler’ were planted in each pot (6” dia)\r\ncontaining sterilized soil. These pots were then\r\nallowed to establish for one month under\r\npolyhouse conditions. The plants were\r\ninoculated with zoospore suspension of P.\r\nfragariae. For the production of zoospore\r\nsuspension for inoculation, 2 to 3 weeks old\r\nculture of test pathogen grown on bean agar\r\nmedium was transferred to a sterile petri dish\r\n(6” dia) and were flooded in 50 ml non- sterile\r\npond water and incubated at 24-48 hrs at 15oC.\r\nThe inoculum was applied after one month of\r\ntransplanting of runners. The treatments were\r\nreplicated thrice.\r\nTo study the effect of soil temperature on\r\ndisease development, the inoculated pots were\r\nkept at 5, 10, 15, 20, 25 and 30oC temperature\r\nin BOD incubators. To study the effect of soil\r\nmoisture in disease development, different\r\nlevels of moisture viz. 25, 50, 75 and 100 were\r\nmaintained in pots with the help of moisture\r\nmeter. The pots after inoculation were placed\r\nin laboratory conditions at temperature\r\nranging between 15 to 20oC.\r\nThe influence of soil pH on disease\r\ndevelopment was studied by examining the\r\nprogress of the disease in green house in soils\r\nartificially adjusted to different pH levels of\r\n4.5, 5.5, 6.5, 7.5 and 8.5. The pH of the soil\r\nwas adjusted with the addition of 0.1 N HCl or\r\n0.1 N NaOH.\r\nBiological Forum – An International Journal, 1(1): 18-21 (2009)\r\nMeenu Gupta and L.N. Bhardwaj 19\r\nSimilarly, the effect of different soil types\r\nnamely, sandy loam, clay, loam, forest loam\r\nand sandy loam (gravelly) on disease\r\ndevelopment was studied. The soils were\r\nsterilized in an autoclave at 1 Kg/cm2 pressure\r\nfor half an hour for two consecutive days and\r\nthe pots after inoculation were kept under\r\nlaboratory conditions.\r\nSixty days after pathogen inoculation, the\r\nrunner of strawberry plants were uprooted\r\nwashed thoroughly and the root system was\r\nexamined. Observations on disease incidence\r\nand disease severity were recorded from 25\r\nplants selected at random from each treatment.\r\nThe severity was recorded by using 0-5 scale\r\ngiven by Kennedy et al., 1986 where 0, means\r\nroots apparently free from infection, 1, 1-10 %\r\nroots infected, 2, 10-20 % roots infected, 3,\r\n20-50 % roots infected, 4, 50-75 % roots\r\ninfected and 5 means 75 – 100 % roots\r\ninfected in which the PDI (Per cent Disease\r\nIndex) was calculated according to McKinney\r\n(1923).\r\nRESULTS AND DISCUSSION\r\nEffect of soil temperature\r\nThe perusal of data presented in Table 1\r\nindicates that the red stele pathogen, P.\r\nfragariae was able to infect the strawberry\r\nplants at all the temperatures ranging form 5 to\r\n30oC, however, maximum infection (incidence\r\n70.37% and severity 56.29%) was recorded at\r\n15oC and least at 30oC (incidence 29.68 % and\r\nseverity 23.59 %). The data further reveals\r\nthat temperatures <10oC and >25oC were not\r\nfound congenial for development and spread\r\nof the disease. Govorova (1966) and Morita\r\n(1975) also reported 15oC temperature as\r\noptimum for the development and spread of\r\nred stele of strawberry.\r\nEffect of soil moisture\r\nThe effect of different soil moisture levels on\r\nthe development of red stele indicated that\r\nwith the increase in soil moisture level from\r\n25 to 100 per cent, the incidence was\r\nincreased from 9.62 % to 66.30 % and severity\r\nfrom 7.70 % to 53.04 % (Table 2). However,\r\nmaximum mortality of plants was recorded at\r\n100 per cent soil moisture when 66.30 % per\r\ncent plants were found killed sixty days after\r\npathogen inoculation while least mortality of\r\nplants (9.62 %) was observed at 25 per cent\r\nsoil moisture level. Hickman and English\r\n(1951) also reported maximum infection of P.\r\nfragariae at high soil moisture conditions that\r\npromoted the liberation of zoospores. Similar\r\nresults on the influence of soil moisture on the\r\ndevelopment of red stele were also reported by\r\nSmith (1952), Vaughan (1956), Morita (1975)\r\nand Duncan (1976).\r\nEffect of soil pH\r\nThe data in Table 3 reveals that lower soil pH\r\nranging between 4.5 to 6.5 was found\r\nfavourable for the development of red stele of\r\nstrawberry, while higher pH ranges (7.5 and\r\n8.5) were unfavourable for its development.\r\nMaximum incidence of red stele was recorded\r\nat 5.5 pH followed by pH 4.5 and 6.5 while\r\nleast incidence was observed at 8.5 pH. While\r\nstudying the effect of pH on disease severity,\r\nalmost similar trend was observed with\r\nmaximum disease severity at pH 5.5 (51.41%)\r\nand minimum at pH 8.5 (25.71%). The data\r\nalso depicts that pathogen could not proliferate\r\nand establish well in alkaline soil as both the\r\ndisease incidence and severity were\r\ncomparatively much less in comparison to\r\nacidic soil. Lower soil pH ranging from 4.5 to\r\n6.5 were also reported favourable for the\r\ndevelopment of red stele by Hickman and\r\nEnglish (1951), Montgomerie and Kennedy\r\n(1973), Maas (1976), Montgomerie (1977) and\r\nBolay (1982).\r\nEffect of soil types\r\nEffect of different soil types on the incidence\r\nand severity of red stele disease of strawberry\r\nwas also studied in pot culture. The data\r\nindicates (Table 4) that soil with sandy loam\r\ntexture had high incidence of red stele\r\nfollowed by sandy loam (gravelly), forest\r\nloam and loam while least incidence was\r\nobserved in clay soils. The data with regard to\r\nseverity of disease also indicated high\r\nmortality of plants in sandy loam (53.63 %)\r\nPDI =\r\n(%)\r\nSum of disease ratings\r\nTotal Number of ratings x x 100\r\nMaximum disease grade\r\n20 Biological Forum – An International Journal, 1(1): 18-21 (2009)\r\nand least in clay soils (28.40 %). Similarly\r\nfindings were also reported by Hickman and\r\nEnglish (1951) and Smith (1952) who also\r\nreported lighter soils to be more conducive for\r\nthe development of red stele of strawberry\r\nunder favourable conditions.','Meenu Gupta and L.N. Bhardwaj (2009). Effect of epidemiological parameters on the development of red stele of strawberry. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 1(1): 18-21. '),(4641,'131','Floral diversity and limnological studies in and around Dholbaha dam\r\n(Punjab Shivalik, India)','Gaurav Sharma, P.C. Joshi, Rajesh Kumar and Dheeraj Vasu','5 Gaurav.pdf','',1,'A detailed study on the floral diversity and limnological parameters were carried out at Dholbaha\r\ndam, Punjab, India during 2002-04. The study area has a moist deciduous forest surrounding it. A\r\ntotal of 82 plant species, including 15 algaes, 6 pteridophytes, 1 gymnosperm and\r\n60 angiosperms (13 trees, 8 shrubs, 4 climbers, 1 parasite, 9 herbs, 10 grasses and\r\n15 aquatic & wetland vegetation) were recorded during the study period.','Floral diversity, limnological parameters, Dholbaha dam, Punjab Shivalik, India','A detailed study on the floral diversity and limnological parameters were carried out at Dholbaha\r\ndam, Punjab, India during 2002-04. The study area has a moist deciduous forest surrounding it. A\r\ntotal of 82 plant species, including 15 algaes, 6 pteridophytes, 1 gymnosperm and\r\n60 angiosperms (13 trees, 8 shrubs, 4 climbers, 1 parasite, 9 herbs, 10 grasses and\r\n15 aquatic & wetland vegetation) were recorded during the study period.','Himalaya in the north provide a complex\r\nterrain of the Himalayan region, which change\r\nfrequently, provide endless microclimatic\r\nconditions suitable to the species to grow and\r\nevolve. The Himalaya has more than five\r\nmicro-endemic centers, Shivalik ranges are\r\none such micro-endemic center. These ranges\r\nare among the youngest hills in the world and\r\nare active as well as fragile. The Shivaliks\r\nhave been identified as one of the eight most\r\ndegraded rain-fed agro ecosystems of the\r\ncountry. There are acute shortages of drinking\r\nwater, fodder and fuel wood, caused by\r\ndeforestation, decreased vegetative cover and\r\nsoil erosion. Rain fed agriculture is the\r\nprevalent production system in Shivaliks. The\r\nPunjab Shivalik, because of their peculiar\r\ngeological formations and exposure to greater\r\nbiometrical treatment due to their proximity to\r\nplains, represent the most fragile ecosystem of\r\nHimalayan mountainous range (Sud et al.,\r\n2000).\r\nBiodiversity, comprising the variability of\r\ngenes, species and ecosystems, is essential for\r\nmaintaining the basic process on which, life\r\ndepends and is a key to sustainable\r\ndevelopment. It not only provides food,\r\nmedicine and products of commercial and\r\nnon-commercial use, but also maintains life by\r\nproviding environmental services like, air,\r\nwater quality, soil fertility, pest and disease\r\ncontrol and waste disposal, etc. However,\r\nhuman activities, which have adversely\r\naffected the environment, are leading to loss of\r\nthe planet biodiversity. Shivalik hills of Punjab\r\nhave rich biodiversity and are the major\r\nnatural green belt of the state. The state is well\r\nknown for agricultural produce and industries,\r\nbut the degradational activity coupled with the\r\ndestruction of forests in the process of\r\ndevelopment activities has altered the natural\r\nlandscape of the region to a great extent. It is\r\nfacing threat for its very existence again from\r\nmankind in the name of development. Because\r\nof these increased anthropogenic activities as a\r\nresult of population and agricultural explosion\r\nand change in land use practices, the natural\r\nlandscape has been modified which has\r\nresulted in fragmentation of forests with poor\r\nspecies composition. Hence, the resulting\r\nlandscape mosaic is a mixture of natural and\r\nhuman managed patches that vary in size,\r\nshape and arrangement.\r\nThe Punjab State is also rich in wetlands,\r\nabout 147.39 km2 and 8.39 km2 area is under\r\nmanmade and natural wetland, which is about\r\n0.31% of the Punjab area. These manmade\r\nBiological Forum – An International Journal, 1(1): 22-31 (2009)\r\nGaurav Sharma et al. 23\r\ndams have played a major role in defining the\r\necology of rural areas providing natural\r\ndrainage, acting as ground water rechargers\r\nand providing habitat to the local flora and\r\nfauna. The drainage channels in the Shivalik\r\nrange originate on the sloping land in the\r\nupper reaches of the watersheds and develop\r\ninto gullies. A series of such gullies or\r\nchannels may combine further down to take\r\nthe form of gorges or ravines. Such ravines\r\nmerge into seasonal streams towards the lower\r\nreaches of a watershed. The main water\r\nresources in the area are springs, nallahs,\r\nwells, tube-wells and rivers. As many as 17\r\nsmall dams have been constructed as water\r\nharvesting structures in the Punjab Shivalik\r\nand the study site, Dholbaha dam is among\r\none of them.\r\nPerusal of literature reveals that no\r\nconsolidated account is available on the floral\r\ndiversity and limnological studies of Dholbaha\r\nDam, though Bamber (1916) published work\r\non plants of Punjab, Parker (1956) on forest\r\nflora for the Punjab, Sharma and Bir (1978) on\r\nflora of Patiala, Sharma (1990) on Punjab\r\nplants, Mittal et al. (2000) on sustainable\r\nresource management in Shivaliks, Alfred and\r\nNandi (2002) on freshwater ecosystems of\r\nIndia, Sud et al. (2000) on surface water\r\nresources development in Kandi area-Punjab,\r\nAnnonymous (2003) provided detailed study\r\nof Biodiversity in the Shivalik Ecosystem of\r\nPunjab and Sharma and Joshi (2007) studied\r\ndiversity of Odonata (Insecta) from Dholbaha\r\ndam. Therefore, the present study makes a\r\nmodest attempt to explore the existing floral\r\ndiversity from Dholbaha dam.\r\nMATERIALS AND METHOD\r\nStudy Area\r\nDholbaha dam is a man made wetland in\r\nvillage Dholbaha of district Hoshiarpur\r\n(Punjab: India), which is a part of Shivalik\r\nhills (9448.97 Km2) of Punjab state and lies\r\nbetween latitude 30°34\'10.82\" and\r\n32°33\'02.96\" North and longitude\r\n74°50\'30.30\" and 76°52\'51.26\" East. Dholbaha\r\nDam is constructed as under water harvesting\r\nstructure in the year 1987, for controlling the\r\nwater, which used to cause heavy loss to the\r\nnearby villages. Dholbaha dam is earth filled\r\ndam and area under water is 132 ha. The total\r\ncatchment area of the Dholbaha dam is 56.14\r\nKm2 and it is 32 Km from Hoshiarpur town.\r\nThe Dholbaha dam exists throughout the year\r\nalthough the water level may vary, thus it\r\nforms a congenial habitat for large number of\r\naquatic insects and fishes. The prevailing\r\nclimatic condition in Dholbaha dam is\r\ntypically sub-tropical and north Indian\r\nmonsoon type with distinct summer and\r\nwinter months. The temperature varies\r\nbetween 14°-47°C in summer, where as\r\nbetween 0°-32°C during winter. The southwest\r\nmonsoon arrives during June and remains\r\ntill October. The average annual rainfall varies\r\nbetween 400-600 mm. The forest type around\r\nDholbaha dam is moist deciduous. For\r\ncarrying out the present studies the total\r\nreservoir and surroundings were divided into\r\nfour sectors based on distribution and the\r\ntypes of vegetation and topography. The total\r\nreservoir and surroundings were divided into\r\nfour sectors in accordance with distribution\r\nand the types of vegetation and topography. In\r\neach sector five spots were selected according\r\nto the maximum availability of floral species\r\nfor the present study.\r\nAbiotic Factors\r\nLimnological parameters for water analysis\r\nwere studied once in a month to obtain the\r\nvariations in water quality in different seasons\r\nby using Standard Methods for Examination of\r\nWater and Wastewater (Anonymous, 1976).\r\nFollowing limnological parameters were\r\nstudied.\r\nPhysical Parameters\r\nColour: The colour of the water sample may\r\nbe observed usually through naked eyes after\r\ntaking the sample in a glass test tube.\r\nTurbidity: Turbidity refers to the relative\r\nclarity of water. The turbidity of water can be\r\nmeasured by secchi disc method which is\r\nbased on the visibility of an object in water, is\r\nan approximation.\r\nWater temperature: Water temperature was\r\nmeasured with the help of thermometer (0-\r\n50°C).\r\n24 Biological Forum – An International Journal, 1(1): 22-31 (2009)\r\nChemical Parameters\r\npH: Water pH was calculated with the help of\r\nindicator pH paper of 5-12 range.\r\nDissolved Oxygen (DO): The levels of DO in\r\nnatural water depends on the physical,\r\nchemical and biochemical activities in the\r\nwater body. In the present study dissolved\r\noxygen was estimated through modified\r\nWinkler or Iodometric method (Das, 1989).\r\nWater samples were taken from the bank of\r\nthe reservoir and from a moderate depth with\r\nthe help of a 250 ml BOD bottle. The bottle\r\nwas first totally submerged to the approximate\r\ndepth of 10 cm from the surface. Then the\r\nstopper was removed. After the bottle totally\r\nfilled with water, a glass coverslide was\r\nhorizontally kept in the mouth of the bottle\r\ntightly and it was taken out of water.\r\nImmediately after removing the coverslide\r\nwith gentle hand, 2 ml of MnSO4 reagent and\r\n2 ml of NaOH + NaCl were added just below\r\nthe surface. Then the bottle was stoppered and\r\nmixed vigorously by inversion. The\r\nprecipitate was allowed to settle. After final\r\nsettling of precipitate, 2ml of conc. H2SO4 was\r\nadded with a pipette and the bottle was shaked\r\nuntil the precipitate got dissolved. 100 ml of\r\nthe water sample was transferred to a 250 ml\r\nconical flask with the help of a volumetric\r\npipette. It was titrated rapidly with 0.005 N\r\nstandardized sodium thiosulphate solution\r\nfilled in a 50 ml burette, until iodine colour of\r\nthe sample was reduced to pale yellow or\r\nstraw colour. Two drops of stabilized starch\r\nmixture was added to get uniform blue colour\r\nand the titration was continued rapidly but\r\ncontinuously until the blue colour first\r\ndisappeared. The titration was discountinued\r\nat the end point. Any return of blue colour\r\nwas ignored. The volume (ml.) of titrant used\r\nwas recorded up to 2 decimal places. The\r\ndissolve oxygen of the water sample was\r\ncalculated using following formula:\r\nDissolve oxygen (O2) mg/lit. = ml. of Sodium\r\nthiosulphate consumed x 4\r\nFree CO2 (Carbon-dioxide): The amount of\r\nfree CO2 in the water sample was determined\r\nby Titrimetric method using phenolphthalein\r\nas an indicator. 50 ml of the water sample was\r\ntaken in a Nesslers tube jar (200 x32 mm) and\r\n2 drops of phenolphthalein solution was\r\nadded. (N/44) NaOH was added by a burette\r\nand stirred gently. Titration was continued\r\nuntil permanent pink colour appeared. The\r\namount of free CO2 is expressed in part per\r\nmillion (ppm). It was calculated by\r\nmultiplying the number of ml of (N/44) NaOH\r\nused in titration by 20.\r\nMathematically it is expressed by the\r\nfollowing formula:\r\nFree CO2 (mg/lit.) = No. of ml. of (N/44) NaOH\r\nrequired for titration x 20\r\nBiotic Factors\r\nAnalysis of vegetation\r\nDetailed survey of the study site was\r\ncarried out in order to find out the\r\ncomposition of the vegetation. Monthly\r\ncollections of floral species were made\r\nregularly from the randomly selected spots.\r\nHerbarium of collected vegetation\r\nsamples prepared and unidentified\r\ncollection of vegetation samples were\r\nauthentically identified with the help of\r\nexperts and literature available in libraries of\r\nForest Research Institute, Botanical Survey of\r\nIndia, Dehra Dun and Punjab State\r\nCouncil of Science and Technology,\r\nChandigarh.\r\nRESULTS AND DISCUSSION\r\nAbiotic Factors\r\nClimatically, the study area\r\n(Dholbaha Dam) is typically subtropical\r\nwith hot summers and cold\r\nwinters. There are also considerable\r\ndifferences in weather from season to\r\nseason as well as from year to year.\r\nThe whole year is divided into three\r\nseasons: winter (November to\r\nFebruary), summer (March to June)\r\nand rainy (July to October).\r\nPhysical parameters\r\nColour: The colour of water sample\r\nvaried from light brown to dark brown\r\nGaurav Sharma et al. 25\r\nduring the study period 2002-2004.\r\nDuring the first year of study (2002-\r\n03), the colour of water sample varied\r\nfrom light brown (December-May) to\r\ndark brown (June-November). During\r\nthe second year of study (2003-04)\r\ncolour varied from light brown\r\n(January-May) to dark brown (June-\r\nDecember).\r\nTurbidiy: During the first year of\r\nstudy (2002-03), the turbidity of\r\nreservoir water varied from minimum\r\n31 cm (June) to maximum 38 cm\r\n(September & January). During the\r\nsecond year of the study (2003-04),\r\nthe turbidity of reservoir water varied\r\nfrom minimum 32 cm (June) to 37 cm\r\n(January).\r\nWater temperature: The water\r\ntemperature of the reservoir has been\r\nmeasured at noon (12:00 pm). During\r\nthe first year of study (2002-03), the\r\nwater temperature varied from 100C\r\n(January) to 27.60C (August). During\r\nthe second year of study (2003-04),\r\nthe water temperature varied from\r\n9.00C (January) to 27.30C (August).\r\nThe curve of water temperature of the\r\nreservoir reached its peak during\r\nAugust, while the minimum\r\ntemperature recorded during January.\r\nChemical parameters:\r\npH: The pH of the reservoir water\r\nduring the first year of study (2002-\r\n03) varied from minimum 7.4\r\n(January) to maximum 9.2 (June).\r\nDuring the second year of study\r\n(2003-04) the pH varied from\r\nminimum 7.2 (January) to maximum\r\n9.2 (July). From the data, it is\r\nobserved that during study period\r\n(2002-04) the reservoir water remains\r\nalkaline, however in January the\r\nwater tends to become somewhat\r\nneutral.\r\nDissolved oxygen: The quantity of\r\ndissolved oxygen in reservoir water\r\nduring the first year of study (2002-\r\n03) varied from minimum 8.8 mg/lit\r\n(January) to maximum 12.1 mg/lit\r\n(July). During the second year of\r\nstudy (2003-04), the quantity of\r\ndissolved oxygen varied from\r\nminimum 9.2 mg/lit (January) to\r\nmaximum 11.9 mg/lit (August). The\r\ncurve of dissolved oxygen of\r\nreservoir water reaches its peak\r\nduring July and August, while it goes\r\ndown during December and January.\r\nFree carbon-dioxide: The quantity of\r\nfree CO2 in reservoir water during the\r\nfirst year of study (2002-03) varied\r\nfrom minimum 2.9 mg/lit (May) to 4.1\r\nmg/lit (January). During the second\r\nyear of study (2003-04), the quantity\r\nof free CO2 varied from minimum 2.8\r\nmg/lit to maximum 4.0 mg/lit\r\n(March). The amount of free CO2 in\r\nthe reservoir water varies and remains\r\nsomewhat same except May month\r\nwhen a sharp down fall occurs. The\r\ndata analysed on all these six\r\nlimnological parameters recorded\r\nmonthly during 2002-2004 are given\r\nin Table 1, 2.\r\nBiotic Factors\r\nAnalysis of vegetation\r\nThe forest type around Dholbaha Dam\r\nis moist deciduous. The study site and\r\nsurrounding area is rich in flora.\r\nFloristic composition is the major\r\nanatomical characters of the plant\r\ncommunity. Thus, a detailed survey of\r\nthe vegetation was carried out in and\r\naround the study site during the study\r\nperiod 2002-04. A total of 82 plant\r\nspecies, including 15 Algae, 6\r\nPteridophytes, 1 Gymnosperm and 60\r\nangiosperms (13 trees, 8 shrubs, 4\r\nclimbers, 1 parasite, 9 herbs, 10\r\ngrasses and 15 aquatic & wetland\r\nvegetation) were recorded from all the\r\nfour sectors of study sites. Table-3\r\nshows the sector-wise details of the\r\nplant community.\r\nSECTOR-I: A total of 69 species of plants\r\nwere recorded during the study period, which\r\n26 Biological Forum – An International Journal, 1(1): 22-31 (2009)\r\nincluded 15 species of algae, 5 species of\r\npteridophytes, 1 species of gymnosperm, 48\r\nspecies of angiosperms (10 species of trees, 7\r\nspecies of shrubs, 3 species of climbers, 1\r\nspecies of parasite, 7 species of herbs, 9\r\nspecies of grasses and 11 species of aquatic\r\nand wetland vegetation). This sector in terms\r\nof algae was mainly dominated by Spirogyra\r\ngrossii Schemidle, S. maxima (Hassall)\r\nfollowed by Diatoma elongatum Ag. and\r\nUlothrix variabilis (Kutz). In terms of\r\npteridohytes the dominant species was\r\nDryopteris cochleata (Buch.-Ham.) followed\r\nby Adiantum incisum Forssk. and Equisetum\r\ndebile Roxb. In terms of forest the dominant\r\nspecies was Pinus roxubrghii Sarg and Acacia\r\nnilotica (Linn.) followed by Dalbergia sissoo\r\nRoxb., Ficus palmata Forssk. and Morus alba\r\nLinn. In terms of shrubs the dominant species\r\nwas Adhatoda zeylanica Medik., Lantana\r\ncamera Linn. and Ipomoea carnea Jacq.\r\nfollowed by Withania somnifera (Linn.). The\r\nground vegetation was dominated by\r\nEuphorbia hirta Linn. and Xanthium indicum\r\nKoen. followed by Cannabis sativa Linn. and\r\nSolanum nigram Linn., Phragmites karka\r\n(Retz.), Saccharum bengalense Retz. and\r\nThemeda anathera (Neesex-Steud). The\r\naquatic and wetland vegetation of this site was\r\ndominated by Cyperus rotundus Linn.,\r\nHydrilla verticillata (Linn.), Typha angustata\r\nBory & Chaub., Polygonum barbatum Linn\r\nand Potamogeton pectinatus Linn.\r\nSECTOR-II: A total of 53 species of plants\r\nwere recorded during the study period, which\r\nincluded 15 species of algae, 4 species of\r\npteridophytes, 34 species of angiosperms (5\r\nspecies of trees, 7 species of shrubs, 2 species\r\nof climbers, 1 species of parasite, 6 species of\r\nherbs, 5 species of grasses and 8 species of\r\naquatic and wetland vegetation). This sector\r\nin terms of algae was mainly dominated by\r\nSpirogyra hyalina Cleve, S. rivularis (Hassall)\r\nfollowed by Ulothrix variabilis (Kutz) and\r\nZygnema cruciatum (Vaucher). In terms of\r\npteridohytes the dominant species was\r\nDryopteris cochleata (Buch.-Ham.) followed\r\nby Equisetum debile Roxb. In terms of forest\r\nthe dominant species was Acacia nilotica\r\n(Linn.), Bombax ceiba Linn. followed by\r\nDalbergia sissoo Roxb., and Morus alba Linn.\r\nIn terms of shrubs the dominant species was\r\nIpomoea carnea Jacq., Lantana camera Linn.,\r\nAdhatoda zeylanica Medik. and followed by\r\nWithania somnifera (Linn.). The ground\r\nvegetation was dominated by Xanthium\r\nindicum Koen. And Euphorbia hirta Linn.\r\nfollowed by Cannabis sativa Linn. and\r\nSolanum nigram Linn., Saccharum bengalense\r\nRetz. and Phragmites karka (Retz.). The\r\naquatic and wetland vegetation of this site was\r\ndominated by Hydrilla verticillata (Linn.),\r\nCyperus rotundus Linn., Polygonum\r\nbarbatum Linn. and Typha angustata Bory &\r\nChaub.\r\nSECTOR-III: A total of 53 species of plants\r\nwere recorded during the study period, which\r\nincluded 15 species of algae, 5 species of\r\npteridophytes, 33 species of angiosperms (7\r\nspecies of trees, 5 species of shrubs, 1 species\r\nof climbers, 1 species of parasite, 5 species of\r\nherbs, 7 species of grasses and 7 species of\r\naquatic and wetland vegetation). This sector\r\nin terms of algae was mainly dominated by\r\nSpirogyra gibberosa Jao, S. maxima (Hassall)\r\nfollowed by Diatoma elongatum Ag. and\r\nClosterium moniliferum (Bory.). In terms of\r\npteridohytes the dominant species was\r\nDryopteris cochleata (Buch.-Ham.) followed\r\nby Adiantum incisum Forssk. and Marsilea\r\nminuta Linn. In terms of forest the dominant\r\nspecies was Dalbergia sissoo Roxb. followed\r\nby Acacia nilotica (Linn.), Ficus palmata\r\nForssk. and Morus alba Linn. In terms of\r\nshrubs the dominant species was Lantana\r\ncamera Linn., Adhatoda zeylanica Medik. and\r\nIpomoea carnea Jacq. followed by Ziziphus\r\nnummularia (Burm.). The ground vegetation\r\nwas dominated by Euphorbia hirta Linn. and\r\nXanthium indicum Koen. followed by\r\nCannabis sativa Linn. and Solanum nigram\r\nLinn., Saccharum bengalense Retz.,\r\nPhragmites karka (Retz.) and Themeda\r\nanathera (Neesex-Steud). The aquatic and\r\nwetland vegetation of this site was dominated\r\nby Hydrilla verticillata (Linn.), Typha\r\nangustata Bory & Chaub., Wolffia globosa\r\n(Roxb.) and Rotala rotundifolia (Roxb.).\r\nGaurav Sharma et al. 27\r\nSECTOR-IV: A total of 60 species of plants\r\nwere recorded during the study period, which\r\nincluded 15 species of algae, 5 species of\r\npteridophytes, 1 species of gymnosperm, 39\r\nspecies of angiosperms (7 species of trees, 5\r\nspecies of shrubs, 3 species of climbers, 1\r\nspecies of parasite, 7 species of herbs, 7\r\nspecies of grasses and 9 species of aquatic and\r\nwetland vegetation). This sector in terms of\r\nalgae was mainly dominated by Spirogyra\r\nhyalina Cleve, S. spreeiana Robenh. followed\r\nby Ulothrix variabilis (Kutz) and Diatoma\r\nelongatum Ag.. In terms of pteridohytes the\r\ndominant species was Adiantum incisum\r\nForssk. followed by Dryopteris cochleata\r\n(Buch.-Ham.) and Equisetum debile Roxb. In\r\nterms of forest the dominant species was\r\nAcacia nilotica (Linn.) and Pinus roxubrghii\r\nSarg followed by Dalbergia sissoo Roxb.,\r\nMorus alba Linn and Ficus palmata Forssk..\r\nIn terms of shrubs the dominant species was\r\nLantana camera Linn. and Adhatoda zeylanica\r\nMedik. followed by Agave angustifolia Haw.\r\nThe ground vegetation was dominated by\r\nEuphorbia hirta Linn. and Cannabis sativa\r\nLinn. followed by Solanum nigram Linn.,\r\nSaccharum bengalense Retz., Phragmites\r\nkarka (Retz.) and Vetiveria zizanioides (Linn.).\r\nThe aquatic and wetland vegetation of this site\r\nwas dominated by Typha angustata Bory &\r\nChaub., Cyperus rotundus Linn., Hydrilla\r\nverticillata (Linn.), Polygonum barbatum Linn\r\nand Eichhornia crassipes (Mart.).\r\nThe presence of light brown or\r\ndark brown colour in water sample of\r\nDholbaha dam indicates the presence\r\nof algae, weeds, humus, peat, iron,\r\ncopper, manganese metals etc., and is\r\nfree from industrial pollution. As the\r\nturbidiy of reservoir water during the\r\nstudy period (2002-04) varied\r\nbetween 31 cm to 38 cm is better for\r\nsurvival of water life. The water\r\ntemperature of the reservoir varied\r\nfrom 90C to 27.60C during the study\r\nperiod, is better for survival of fauna\r\nand flora. As the pH of reservoir\r\nwater is alkaline, it is a shine of\r\nhealthy water body. As the dissolved\r\noxygen of reservoir water varied from\r\n8.8 mg/lit to 12.1 mg/lit, that\r\nconsidered study site healthy. The\r\ntemperature also affects the dissolved\r\noxygen, as oxygen is more soluble in\r\ncold than in warm water. During study\r\nperiod (2002-04), free CO2 varied\r\nfrom 2.8 mg/lit to 4.1 mg/lit, that\r\nconsidered study site healthy.\r\nTemperature is the most important\r\nabiotic factor, which acts on insects\r\ndirectly in a variety of ways. The\r\nmovement of body, respiration,\r\ncirculation, digestion, development of\r\ntheir eggs, larvae etc. depend upon\r\nthe external temperature.\r\nTemperatures below 250C slowed the\r\nactivity whereas an optimal\r\ntemperature above 300C increased\r\nactivity (Jacobs, 1955). Mittal et al.\r\n(2000) reported that the Punjab\r\nshivalik falls in the sub- moist to\r\nhumid and less hot region, with a\r\ntemperature varies from a minimum\r\n20C in winters to a maximum of about\r\n420C in summers and the average\r\nannual rainfall varies between 400\r\nmm to 600 mm. Bamber (1916),\r\nParker (1956), Sharma and Bir (1978)\r\nand Sharma (1990) worked on flora of\r\nPunjab and Annonymous (2003)\r\nprovided detailed study of\r\nBiodiversity in the Shivalik\r\nEcosystem of Punjab. Therefore, the\r\npresent study made an attempt to\r\nexplore floral diversity and\r\nlimnological perameters of Dholbaha\r\nDam, which will help to provide the\r\nbase for future studies of wetlands\r\nand waterbodies. The limnological\r\nstudy of the Dholbaha Dam indicates\r\nthat the study area is free from\r\npollution and rich in floral diversity.','Gaurav Sharma, P.C. Joshi, Rajesh Kumar and Dheeraj Vasu (2009). Floral diversity and limnological studies in and around Dholbaha dam (Punjab Shivalik, India). Biological Forum – An International Journal, 1(1): 22-31.'),(4642,'131','Selection of stone fruit rootstock for drought tolerance and amenability\r\nto clonal multiplication','Nirmal Sharma, S. D. Sharma and Dharminder Kumar','7 NIRMAL.pdf','',1,'Heterogenous mass population of hybrid peach (raised by crossing commercial cultivars i.e. July\r\nElberta, J H Hale, Kanto 5, Alton and Quetta with wild peach), wild peach and wild apricot were\r\nassessed for their nutrient uptake under low fertility conditions. The promising seedlings were\r\nevaluated for their propensity for clonal multiplication through cutting and stooling. Hybrid peach\r\nseedlings S-21, S-42, S-46, S-47, S-51 and S-52 performed better with respect to vegetative characters\r\nand proline content under lower irrigation regimes. Similarly wild peach seedlings S-26, S-27, S-47,\r\nS-48, S-55, S-56 and S-57, wild apricot seedlings S-44, S-45, S-46, S-47, S-52 and S-53 were better\r\nunder low irrigation regimes. S-42 among hybrid peach seedlings, S-43 and S-47 from wild peach\r\nseedlings and S-47 among the wild apricot seedlings were promising with respect to their propensity\r\nfor vegetative multiplication.','Stone fruit rootstock, seedling rootstock selection, drought tolerance, rootstock\r\nselection, vegetative multiplication','Hybrid peach seedlings S-21, S-42, S-46, S-\r\n47, S-51 and S-52 performed better with\r\nrespect to vegetative characters and proline\r\ncontent under lower irrigation regimes.\r\nSimilarly wild peach seedlings S-26, S-27, S-\r\n47, S-48, S-55, S-56 and S-57, wild apricot\r\nseedlings S-44, S-45, S-46, S-47, S-52 and S-\r\n53 were better under low irrigation regimes.\r\nS-42 among hybrid peach seedlings, S-43\r\nand S-47 from wild peach seedlings and S-47\r\namong the wild apricot seedlings were\r\npromising with respect to their propensity for\r\nvegetative multiplication.','Stone fruits (Peach, Plum and Apricot) are\r\nmainly grown in the North-Western Indian\r\nStates of Jammu and Kashmir (J&K),\r\nHimachal Pradesh (H.P.), Uttrakhand hills and\r\nto some extent in the North-Eastern Hills\r\nregion. Major portion of the total stone fruits\r\nproduction in Himachal Pradesh is confined\r\nmainly to the mid hill region falling in the\r\naltitude range of 1000 – 1700 meters above\r\nmean sea level where the summer are\r\nmoderately hot (31.8 to 34.8oC) during May-\r\nJune and winters are cold (2.4 to 3.7oC) during\r\nDecember–January. The average annual\r\nrainfall ranges from 100-130 cm, 90% of\r\nwhich is limited to two months of the\r\nmonsoon (July–August) and during the rest of\r\nthe year plants remain under water stress.\r\nMost of the orchards are on sloppy land where\r\nirrigation is difficult to practice and due to\r\nscarcity of water and uneven distribution of\r\nrainfall throughout the growing season\r\ndrought conditions are commonly prevalent,\r\nwhich results in poor fruit set, heavy fruit drop\r\nand sometimes even cause the death of the\r\nplants. Like majority of fruit crops, stone fruits\r\nare also multiplied clonally by grafting the\r\nscion cultivar on the desired rootstock and\r\nbeneficial effects of rootstock on the grafted\r\nplant, including drought tolerance are well\r\nknown among the fruit crops. Wild relatives of\r\nthe stone fruits e.g. wild peach (Kateru), wild\r\napricot (Chulli) and Behmi have remained the\r\nfirst choice as rootstock in case of stone fruits\r\non commercial level and have adapted in this\r\nregion for ages. But the heterogeneity of the\r\nwild mass population remains the biggest\r\nproblem in getting homogenous grafted plants.\r\nThus in India the productivity of peach, plum\r\nand apricot is 8.10 tonnes/hac, 5.7 tonnes/hac\r\nand 4.17 tonnes/hac respectively which is\r\nconsiderably low as compared to other\r\ncountries where these fruits are grown\r\ncommercially. Non-availability of good clonal\r\nrootstocks suitable for the local climatic\r\nconditions for mid hills of Himachal Pradesh\r\nis one of the major reasons for the low\r\nproductivity of these crops. Since there is\r\nhuge variations available in form of wild\r\npeach (kateru), wild apricot (Chulli) and\r\nBehmi from which suitable clonal rootstock\r\nBiological Forum – An International Journal, 1(1): 36-46 (2009)\r\nNirmal Sharma et al 37\r\ncould be evolved which are suitable for the\r\nlocal climatic conditions and benefit the\r\norcharding enterprise to a larger extent.\r\nTherefore the present investigations were\r\ncarried out to select seedling from a\r\nhetrogenous mass of wild relatives which are\r\nefficient in nutrient uptake and are amenable\r\nfor vegetative multiplication in the\r\nexperimental block of Dr. Y. S. Parmar\r\nUniversity of Horticulture and Forestry,\r\nNauni, Solan, HP, so that subsequently they\r\ncould be multiplied easily as rooting has\r\nalways been a problem in the wild germplasm\r\nof the stone fruit plants.\r\nMATERIALS AND METHOD\r\nThe experimental site falls under subtemperate\r\nclimatic region where the summer\r\nare moderately hot (31.8 to 34.8oC) during\r\nMay-June and winters are cold (2.4 to 3.7oC)\r\nduring December – January. The average\r\nannual rainfall ranges from 100-130 cm, major\r\nportion of which is confined mainly to two\r\nmonths of monsoon (July – August). Winter\r\nrains are usually of lighter intensity and of\r\nshorter durations. Thus most of the cultivation\r\nis rainfed and dependent upon the rainwater.\r\nPlant material: Uniform and healthy one year\r\nold seedlings of wild peach, wild apricot and\r\nF1 peach hybrids raised by hybridizing\r\ncommercial cultivars named July Elberta, J H\r\nHale, Kanto 5, Alton and Quetta with wild\r\npeach were planted at a spacing of 32×25 cm.\r\nNumber of treatments: 6,\r\nSeedlings per treatment: 8\r\nTreatments: 1) T1: No irrigation, 2) T2: Soil\r\nmoisture raised to 25% of the field capacity\r\nonce in a week, 3) T3: Soil moisture raised to\r\n50% of the field capacity once in a week, 4)\r\nT4: Soil moisture raised to 75% of the field\r\ncapacity once in a week, 5) T5: Soil moisture\r\nraised to field capacity once in a week, 6) T6:\r\nSoil saturated once in a week\r\nThe soil moisture was determined at 0-30cm\r\ndepth by gravimetric method i.e. by drying the\r\nsoil samples in aluminum boxes in the oven at\r\n105OC for 12 hours. Irrigation was applied at\r\nweekly intervals and amount of water to raise\r\nsoil moisture to desired level was calculated as\r\nfollows:\r\nDepth of water to be applied (Xcm say) = 10\r\n1cm of water/m2 = 10 Liter\r\nX cm of water/m2 = X × 10 Liter\r\n1.21 × 0.45 m2 of water = X × 10 × 1.21 × 0.45 cm (Where 1.21\r\n× 0.45 m2 is the size of the bed)\r\nGrowth and vigour: The physical parameters\r\ne.g. plant height, plant spread, trunk crosssectional\r\narea, internodal length, No. of side\r\nbranches, No. of leaves per plant were\r\nmeasured using standard methods. Leaf area\r\nwas measured on leaf area meter (Licor model\r\n3100) and expressed as cm2/leaf. The\r\ntechnique used for the stomatal study was as\r\ndescribed by Beakbane and Majumdar (1975).\r\nChlorophyll content was measured using the\r\nmethod suggested by Hiscex and Isralistan\r\n(1979) using the following formula.\r\nTotal Chlorophyll (mg/g) = 20.2 A645 + 8.02 A663 × V\r\na × 1000 × w\r\nWhere V = Volume of the extract made, a = Length of\r\nthe light path in cell (usually 1 cm), w = Weight of the\r\nsample (gm), A645 = Absorbance at 645 nm wavelength,\r\nA663 = Absorbance at 663 nm wavelength. The results\r\nwere expressed as chlorophyll content mg/gm fresh\r\nweight\r\nProline content: Proline content was\r\ndetermined according to the method suggested\r\nby Uma (2000) with the help of standard curve\r\nusing the following formula:\r\nμg/gm of tissue = μg proline/ml × ml toluene × 0.5 gm sample\r\n115.5*\r\n* molecular weight of proline.\r\nRESULTS AND DISCUSSION\r\nVariations in growth parameters and\r\nproline content: Among hybrid peach\r\nseedlings (Table 1) plant height, spread, trunk\r\ncross sectional area internodal length, no. of\r\nshoots/seedling, no. of leaves/seedling, leaf\r\narea, stomatal density (per microscopic field),\r\nstomatal length, stomatal breadth, chlorophyll\r\ncontent and proline content ranged between\r\n0.76-1.64m, 0.21-0.42m, 2.80-4.68cm2, 1.64-\r\n3.02cm, 4-9, 503-822, 17.88-29.73cm2, 15-24,\r\n21.60-28.80μm, 7.20-10.80μm, 1.50-1.98mg/g\r\nand 503.00-1615μg/gm respectively. The\r\nDeficit in\r\nmoisture\r\n× Depth of soil to\r\nbe irrigated\r\n× Bulk density of\r\nthe soil\r\n38 Biological Forum – An International Journal, 1(1): 36-46 (2009)\r\nrespective coefficients of variation for the\r\ncharacters was recorded as 23.58, 15.63,\r\n12.61, 21.76, 21.76, 22.86, 8.10, 17.80, 21.75,\r\n9.77 and 5.40 and the respective mean values\r\nwere 1.06, 0.32, 3.33, 2.16, 4.90, 22.95, 18.88,\r\n22.95, 8.55, 1.74 and 1524.63 for the seedlings\r\nunder treatment T1. In case of treatment T2,\r\nthe coefficient of variation for the characters\r\nplant height, spread, trunk cross sectional area\r\ninternodal length, no. of shoots/seedling, no.\r\nof leaves/seedling, leaf area, stomatal density\r\n(per microscopic field), stomatal length,\r\nstomatal breadth, chlorophyll content and\r\nproline content were 13.89, 15.63, 7.79, 20.59,\r\n23.95, 7.79, 11.00, 10.49, 19.68, 7.34 and 6.58\r\nand the respective mean values under same\r\ntreatment observed were 1.08, 0.32, 4.11,\r\n2.38, 5.22, 4.11, 20.00, 24.30, 9.45, 1.77, and\r\n1320.63. The coefficients of variation under\r\ntreatment T3 were 17.86, 13.33, 12.12, 15.93,\r\n20.29, 13.21, 17.23, 11.62, 15.31, 8.75 and\r\n14.40 for the characters plant height, spread,\r\ntrunk cross sectional area internodal length,\r\nno. of shoots/seedling, no. of leaves/seedling,\r\nleaf area, stomatal density (per microscopic\r\nfield), stomatal length, stomatal breadth,\r\nchlorophyll content and proline content\r\nrespectively and the respective mean values\r\nfor same characters recorded were 1.12, 0.30,\r\n3.96, 2.26, 4.88, 23.39, 19.38, 23.40, 12.15,\r\n1.75 and 1276.00. Similarly in case of\r\ntreatment T4 the respective coefficients of\r\nvariations recorded were 27.97, 29.63, 20.06,\r\n16.06, 25.52, 11.70, 16.21, 7.42, 15.31, 16.37\r\nand 8.82 and the respective mean values for\r\nsame characters under treatment T4 were 1.18,\r\n0.27, 3.24, 1.93, 3.88, 22.65, 18.63, 22.50,\r\n12.15, 1.75 and 1120.88. In treatment T5,\r\ncoefficient of variation for plant height,\r\nspread, trunk cross sectional area internodal\r\nlength, no. of shoots/seedling, no. of\r\nleaves/seedling, leaf area, stomatal density\r\n(per microscopic field), stomatal length,\r\nstomatal breadth, chlorophyll content and\r\nproline content were 15.97, 16.13, 8.17, 15.60,\r\n17.10, 16.49, 17.54, 7.80, 19.45, 7.95 and 8.26\r\nrespectively and the mean values for same\r\ncharacters were recorded as 1.19, 0.31, 4.04,\r\n2.17, 5.38, 23.47, 19.50, 23.85, 9.45, 1.76 and\r\n1001.75 respectively. The given in Table 2,\r\nshows that in wild peach seedlings grown\r\nunder different irrigation levels, plant height,\r\nplant spread, trunk cross sectional area\r\ninternodal length, no. of shoots/seedling, no.\r\nof leaves/seedling, leaf area, stomatal density\r\n(per microscopic field), stomatal length,\r\nstomatal breadth, chlorophyll content and\r\nproline content ranged between 0.81-1.39m,\r\n0.30-0.80m, 2.80-4.59cm2, 1.66-3.02cm, 475-\r\n822, 3-9, 19.11-29.73cm2, 17-25, 21.60-\r\n28.80μm, 7.20-10.80μm, 1.65-2.12mg/gm and\r\n503.00-1615μg/g respectively. Under\r\ntreatment T1 for wild peach seedlings the\r\ncoefficient of variation for plant height,\r\nspread, trunk cross sectional area internodal\r\nlength, no. of shoots/seedling, no. of\r\nleaves/seedling, leaf area, stomatal density\r\n(per microscopic field), stomatal length,\r\nstomatal breadth, chlorophyll content and\r\nproline content were 16.35, 24.39, 15.57,\r\n24.15, 20.94, 11.70, 10.61, 8.10, 21.33, 5.56\r\nand 5.40 respectively and the mean values for\r\nsame characters were recorded as 1.04, 0.41,\r\n3.66, 2.36, 4.25, 22.65, 19.13, 22.95, 9.00,\r\n1.80 and 1524.63 respectively. Similarly in\r\ncase of treatment T2 the respective\r\ncoefficients of variations recorded were 25.96,\r\n30.23, 21.29, 8.53, 31.56, 16.16, 13.81, 8.10,\r\n19.68, 8.74 and 5.40 and the respective mean\r\nvalues for same characters under treatment T2\r\nwere 1.04, 0.43, 3.57, 2.11, 4.88, 22.90, 19.25,\r\n22.95, 9.45, 1.83 and 1317.36. The\r\ncoefficients of variation under treatment T3\r\nwere 17.14, 15.56, 8.75, 8.43, 29.53, 13.21,\r\n17.52, 8.10, 2.75, 5.78 and 14.40 for the\r\ncharacters plant height, spread, trunk cross\r\nsectional area internodal length, no. of\r\nshoots/seedling, no. of leaves/seedling, leaf\r\narea, stomatal density (per microscopic field),\r\nstomatal length, stomatal breadth, chlorophyll\r\ncontent and proline content respectively and\r\nthe respective mean values for same characters\r\nrecorded were 1.05, 0.45, 4.23, 2.37, 6.13,\r\n32.39, 19.25, 22.95, 10.35, 1.73 and 1276.00.\r\nThe respective coefficients of variation for the\r\ncharacters was recorded as 17.92, 13.73,\r\n12.57, 12.39, 13.54, 16.56, 17.09, 7.80, 21.75,\r\n10.50 and 8.82 and the respective mean values\r\nwere 1.06, 0.51, 3.58, 2.26, 6.13, 23.40, 20.13,\r\n23.85, 8.55, 1.81 and 1120.88 for the seedlings\r\nunder treatment T4. 13.27, 15.09, 15.40,\r\n13.30, 17.53, 9.89, 16.44, 11.24, 21.75, 9.78\r\nNirmal Sharma et al 39\r\nand 6.06 were the respective coefficient of\r\nvariation values recorded for plant height,\r\nspread, trunk cross sectional area, internodal\r\nlength, no. of shoots/seedling, no. of\r\nleaves/seedling, leaf area, stomatal density\r\n(per microscopic field), stomatal length,\r\nstomatal breadth, chlorophyll content and\r\nproline content under treatment T5 and the\r\nrespective mean values for same characters\r\nwere 1.13, 0.53, 3.83, 2.33, 7.13, 24.46, 20.13,\r\n23.85, 8.55, 1.84 and 991.38. Similarly in case\r\nof treatment T6 the respective coefficients of\r\nvariations recorded were 13.16, 17.24, 8.13,\r\n19.31, 20.94, 16.03, 14.78, 12.12, 21.75, 21.75\r\nand 23.69 and the respective mean values for\r\nsame characters under treatment T6 were 1.14,\r\n0.58, 4.06, 2.33, 4.25, 25.01, 19.75, 24.75,\r\n8.55, 8.55 and 710.50. The data given in Table\r\n3 shows that the plant height, spread, trunk\r\ncross sectional area, internodal length, no. of\r\nshoots/seedling, no. of leaves/seedling, leaf\r\narea, stomatal density (per microscopic field),\r\nstomatal length, stomatal breadth, chlorophyll\r\ncontent and proline content for wild apricot\r\nseedlings varied between 0.79-1.47m, 0.42-\r\n0.59m, 1.96-3.66cm2, 0.96-1.66cm, 452-845,\r\n4-9, 14.48-25.69cm2, 11-31, 18.00-25.20μm,\r\n9.00-12.60μm, 1.42-2.02mg/gm and 850.00-\r\n2382.00μm/gm respectively. The respective\r\ncoefficients of variation for the characters was\r\nrecorded as 5.75, 13.73, 15.00, 11.21, 24.83,\r\n15.69, 34.61, 8.89, 8.02, 10.71 and 3.96 and\r\nthe respective mean values were 0.87, 0.51,\r\n2.20, 1.07, 5.88, 16.89, 16.50, 20.03, 10.35,\r\n1.68 and 2267.00 for the seedlings under\r\ntreatment T1. In case of treatment T2, the\r\ncoefficient of variation for the characters plant\r\nheight, spread, trunk cross sectional area\r\ninternodal length, no. of shoots/seedling, no.\r\nof leaves/seedling, leaf area, stomatal density\r\n(per microscopic field), stomatal length,\r\nstomatal breadth, chlorophyll content and\r\nproline content were 8.70, 13.79, 13.51, 20.34,\r\n25.29, 16.91, 16.91, 6.54, 10.87, 12.21 and\r\n3.30 and the respective mean values under\r\nsame treatment observed were 0.92, 0.29,\r\n2.59, 1.18, 6.13, 20.28, 20.63, 20.48, 10.58,\r\n1.72 and 2095.75. The coefficients of variation\r\nunder treatment T3 were 3.03, 15.00, 12.64,\r\n9.60, 13.42, 18.47, 15.82, 8.07, 10.87, 5.65\r\nand 1.53 for the characters plant height,\r\nspread, trunk cross sectional area internodal\r\nlength, no. of shoots/seedling, no. of\r\nleaves/seedling, leaf area, stomatal density\r\n(per microscopic field), stomatal length,\r\nstomatal breadth, chlorophyll content and\r\nproline content respectively and the respective\r\nmean values for same characters recorded\r\nwere 0.99, 0.32, 2.61, 1.25, 7.75, 20.30, 22.63,\r\n20.70, 10.58, 1.77 and 1810.88. Similarly in\r\ncase of treatment T4 the respective\r\ncoefficients of variations recorded were 10.71,\r\n11.11, 21.97, 20.31, 10.21, 16.59, 24.48,\r\n51.11, 14.18, 8.43 and 5.37 and the respective\r\nmean values for same characters under\r\ntreatment T4 were 1.06, 0.51, 3.58, 2.26, 6.13,\r\n23.40, 20.13, 23.85, 8.55, 1.81 and 1120.88.\r\nIn treatment T5, coefficient of variation for\r\nplant height, spread, trunk cross sectional area\r\ninternodal length, no. of shoots/seedling, no.\r\nof leaves/seedling, leaf area, stomatal density\r\n(per microscopic field), stomatal length,\r\nstomatal breadth, chlorophyll content and\r\nproline content were 4.07, 11.36, 14.39, 12.32,\r\n10.21, 14.98, 22.04, 8.15, 10.87, 8.89 and 5.58\r\nrespectively and the mean values for same\r\ncharacters were recorded as 1.23, 0.44, 2.71,\r\n1.38, 8.13, 14.98, 22.04, 8.15, 1.80 and\r\n1082.75 respectively. In case of treatment T6,\r\nthe coefficient of variation for the characters\r\nplant height, spread, trunk cross sectional area\r\ninternodal length, no. of shoots/seedling, no.\r\nof leaves/seedling, leaf area, stomatal density\r\n(per microscopic field), stomatal length,\r\nstomatal breadth, chlorophyll content and\r\nproline content were 5.84, 13.73, 5.96, 12.75,\r\n6.24, 19.12, 7.88, 9.28, 16.82, 5.41 and 3.96\r\nand the respective mean values under same\r\ntreatment observed were 1.37, 0.51, 2.85,\r\n1.49, 8.50, 21.44, 24.88, 20.70, 10.58, 1.85\r\nand 899.13. Unal et.al. (1994) recorded 0.62 –\r\n1.25 m plant height, 7.63 – 12.89 cm plant\r\nspread and 1-10 shoots per plant in one year\r\nold seedlings of nine almond cultivars. In the\r\nrecent past many researchers (Licznar and\r\nSausa, 2005, Carrera et. al. 2005 and Caruso,\r\n2005) have found huge variations in the\r\nvigorousness of different fruit rootstocks.\r\nKaundal and Bindra (1987) recorded 12.30-\r\n30.15 stomata per 0.04 mm2 leaf area, 17.74 –\r\n26.89μm long and 7.70 – 12.72μm wide\r\nstomata in 12 prunus rootstocks and cultivars.\r\n40 Biological Forum – An International Journal, 1(1): 36-46 (2009)\r\nSimilarly Guirguis and Khalil (1995) observed\r\n14.30–28.32 μm long and 5.67–11.00μm wide\r\nstomata/cm2 of leaf surface in sweet almond,\r\nbitter almond, Nemagaurd peach, Okinawa\r\npeach, Flordaguard peach, Florda 9/3 peach,\r\nlocal apricot, and Myrobalan B. Leaf\r\nchlorophyll content have also been reported to\r\nbe affected by various factors in fruit crops\r\nand can differ between species and within\r\nspecies and is also affected by the type of\r\nrootstock used (Fayeket et. al. 2004 and\r\nSotiropoulos, 2008). Mishra (1997) recorded\r\n2.70 – 3.45 mg/gm and 1.86 – 4.74 mg/gm\r\nchlorophyll content before and after harvest\r\nrespectively in peach cultivar July Elberta\r\nunder different planting systems. Jha (1996)\r\nalso recorded 1.86 – 4.74 mg/gm chlorophyll\r\ncontent in peach cultivar July Elberta. Higher\r\nchlorophyll content has been correlated with\r\nvigorousness many times. The differences in\r\nthe growth behavior of different seedlings\r\nunder low soil moisture may be due to the fact\r\nthat some of them can maintain higher\r\nstomatal resistance which reduces the\r\ntranspiration and thus helps in water\r\nconservation (Giulivo et.al. 1985 and Mannini\r\nand Gallina, 1999). Increased chlorophyll\r\ncontent under higher moisture levels may be\r\ndue to increased uptake by the irrigated plants\r\nand it is well known that magnesium is an\r\nimportant constituent of chlorophyll. Another\r\nreason for chlorophyll content under irrigated\r\ncondition might be the greater synthesis and\r\ntranslocation of assimilates and water might\r\ncheck the degradation of chlorophyll in the\r\nleaves. Water stress suppresses the\r\nphotosynthesis by reducing the leaf area,\r\nclosing of stomata and by checking the\r\nactivity of the dehydrated chloroplast. Proline\r\naccumulation increased markedly with the\r\ndecrease in soil moisture and is considered as\r\nan osmo-protectant compound in plant cells.\r\nUnder the present investigations the seedlings\r\ngrown under low moisture levels had lower\r\nvigor as compared to those under higher\r\nmoisture levels, but some seedlings showed\r\npromise with respect to growth characters and\r\ndrought tolerance under low soil moisture.\r\nNajafian (2008) also reported increased leaf\r\npraline content accumulation in two bitter\r\nalmond rootstocks under stressed conditions.\r\nOn the basis of growth, vigor and proline\r\ncontent seedlings S-12, S26, S-27, S-42, S-45,\r\nS-48, S-51, S-52 and S-57 from hybrid peach,\r\nseedlings S-15, S-23, S-27, S-28, S-43, S-46,\r\nS-47, S-53, S-54, S-56 and S-57 from wild\r\npeach and seedlings S-27, S-28, S-44, S-47, S-\r\n48, S-51, S-53 and S-55 form wild apricot\r\nshowed performance better than the average\r\nperformance under T5.\r\nAmenability to vegetative propagation: The\r\nhardwood cutting from better performing\r\nseedlings, selected from different irrigation\r\nlevels were treated with 2500 ppm IBA. All\r\nthe cuttings sprouted but they did not root at\r\nall and died by the end of June. Stooling was\r\ndone by applying 2500 ppm IBA paste in\r\nlanoline on the circular cut of the mother\r\nstock. Observations for rooting were taken by\r\nthe end of the season. It is evident from the\r\ndata shown in Table 4 that percent rooting in\r\nthe selected seedlings of hybrid peach ranged\r\nbetween 0.00% in S-12, S-45 and S-57 to\r\n66.67% in S-42. Percent rooting in S-26 and\r\nS-48 was 33.33% and S-27, S-51 and S-52 had\r\n25.00% rooting. Number of roots ranged from\r\n2 in S-26, S-42 to 4.00 in S-48. Highest\r\naverage root length was 10.0 cm in S-26, S-42,\r\nS-48 and S-51 followed by 7.5 cm in S-27 and\r\nS-52. In wild peach seedlings rooting\r\npercentage ranged from 0.00% in S-27, S-28,\r\nS-54, S-56 and S-57 to 50.00% in S-43 and S-\r\n47. S-23 and S-46 had 33.33% rooting and S-\r\n15 and S-53 had 25.00% rooting. Number of\r\nroots varied between 2 in S-23 and S-46 to S-\r\n46 and S-47, whereas in S-15, S-43 and S-53\r\nhad average root length of 10.00 cm. Wild\r\napricot had 0.00% rooting in S-27, S-48, S-53\r\nand S-54, 25.00% in S-44 and S-51 and\r\n33.33% in S-47. Number of roots varied\r\nbetween 1 in S-47 to 2 in S-44 and S-51.\r\nMaximum average root length of 15.00cm was\r\nobserved in S-44 followed by 12.5cm in S-47\r\nand 10.00cm in S-51. Yadav (1988) recorded\r\n0.00% rooting in July Elberta and J.H. Hale\r\npeaches when treated with IBA @2000 ppm.\r\nRooting performance of the promising\r\nseedlings when studied in stooling, showed\r\nsuccess. Among the hybrid peach seedlings\r\ngrown under different irrigation regimes, S-42\r\nhad maximum rooting percentage (66.67%)\r\nNirmal Sharma et al 41\r\nbut had only two roots per stool which was\r\nminimum with average root length of\r\n10.00cm. Other seedlings had less than\r\n40.00% rooting. Among wild peach seedlings\r\ngrown under different nutrient levels only one\r\nseedling S-48 had 60.00% rooting, 8 roots per\r\nshoot and 20.00cm average root length.\r\nAmong wild peach seedlings S-43 and S-47\r\nshowed maximum rooting of 50.00%.\r\nSeedlings S-47 had 4 roots per stool with\r\n7.5cm average root length and S-43 had 3\r\nroots per stool with 10.00cm average root\r\nlength. . Dwivedi (1973) recorded 9.00-\r\n46.00% rooting in eight plum rootstocks\r\nhaving 1.40-3.07 roots and 0.80-6.75 cm roots\r\nper sucker. Mishra et.al. (1980) also observed\r\n20.20-51.00% rooting in Prunus rootstock\r\nBehmi. On average the rooting percentage\r\nvaried from 25.00-33.33% with 2 roots per\r\nstool among the seedlings grown under\r\ndifferent irrigation levels.','Nirmal Sharma, S. D. Sharma and Dharminder Kumar (2009). Selection of stone fruit rootstock for drought tolerance and amenability to clonal multiplication. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 1(1): 36-46.'),(4643,'131','Studies on ovicidal effects of some plant extracts against the\r\ndiamondback moth, Plutella xylostella (L.) infesting cauliflower crop','Rakesh Kumar, K.C. Sharma and Dharminder Kumar','8 RAKESH.pdf','',1,'Studies on ovicidal effects of aqueous and alcoholic extracts of four different plants namely, Melia\r\nazedarach; Lantana camara, Artemisia annua and Cannabis sativa were carried out under laboratory\r\nconditions against the diamondback moth, Plutella xylostella (L.) which revealed that extracts of all\r\nthe plants used had significant effect on the mortality of eggs. However, the alcoholic extracts were\r\nfound to be better than the aqueous extracts. Alcoholic and aqueous extracts of M. azedarach (leaf)\r\nresulted in mean egg hatch of 24.4 per cent and 59.9 per cent at 10 per cent concentration in\r\ncomparison to control where 90.0 and 88.3 per cent egg hatch was observed. This was followed by A.\r\nannua seed extract where the same concentration resulted in 31.1 per cent and 77.7 per cent egg\r\nhatch in alcoholic and aqueous extracts respectively. L. camara (seed) and C. sativa (leaf) extracts\r\nwere followed by these with 64.4 and 75.5 per cent eggs hatch in case of alcoholic extract and 73.2\r\nand 82.2 per cent egg hatch in case of aqueous extract. There was constant increase in the per cent\r\nkill of egg masses with the increase in the extract concentration.','Ovicidal effects, plant extracts, Plutella xylostella L., cauliflower crop','Studies on ovicidal effects of aqueous and alcoholic extracts of four different plants namely, Melia\r\nazedarach; Lantana camara, Artemisia annua and Cannabis sativa were carried out under laboratory\r\nconditions against the diamondback moth, Plutella xylostella (L.) which revealed that extracts of all\r\nthe plants used had significant effect on the mortality of eggs. However, the alcoholic extracts were\r\nfound to be better than the aqueous extracts. Alcoholic and aqueous extracts of M. azedarach (leaf)\r\nresulted in mean egg hatch of 24.4 per cent and 59.9 per cent at 10 per cent concentration in\r\ncomparison to control where 90.0 and 88.3 per cent egg hatch was observed. This was followed by A.\r\nannua seed extract where the same concentration resulted in 31.1 per cent and 77.7 per cent egg\r\nhatch in alcoholic and aqueous extracts respectively. L. camara (seed) and C. sativa (leaf) extracts\r\nwere followed by these with 64.4 and 75.5 per cent eggs hatch in case of alcoholic extract and 73.2\r\nand 82.2 per cent egg hatch in case of aqueous extract. There was constant increase in the per cent\r\nkill of egg masses with the increase in the extract concentration.','The diamondback moth, Plutella xylostella (L)\r\n(Lepidoptera : Yponomeutidae) is an\r\ninternationally known insect-pest of\r\ncruciferous crops causing extensive damage.\r\nThe damage is caused by larva which\r\nskeletonizes the foliage of host plant and\r\nrenders it unfit for consumption. In\r\ncauliflower, it firstly feeds on leaves and later\r\non enters inside the curd thus causing damage\r\nto this crop. A number of insecticides have\r\nbeen recommended in the last decade to\r\ncontrol this pest but excessive use of these\r\nchemicals resulted in the development of\r\nresistant strains of this insect, which ultimately\r\nresulted in resistance to many insecticides thus\r\nresidue problem on the crop (Saxena et al.,\r\n1990; Raju, 1996; Sanaveerappanavar and\r\nViraktamath, 1997). Under such conditions,\r\nthe uses of botanical insecticides are the only\r\nalternative, which not only are cost effective\r\nbut cause adverse effects on the development\r\nand reproduction of insect. The present study\r\nhas therefore been undertaken to study the\r\novicidal effect of some plant extracts against\r\nthe diamondback moth, P. xylostella under\r\nlaboratory conditions so that information thus\r\ngathered may be utilized for the management\r\nof this pest under field conditions.\r\nMATERIALS AND METHODS\r\nAqueous and ethanol extract of four plant\r\nspecies namely Melia azedarach (leaf),\r\nLantana camara (seed), Artemisia annua\r\n(seed) and Cannabis sativa (leaf) were tested\r\nfor their ovicidal action against the\r\ndiamondback moth. All the test plant\r\nmaterials except A. annua were collected from\r\nlocally available plants while the seeds of A.\r\nannua were procured from the department of\r\nForest Products and utilization of the\r\nUniversity. The collected material was shade\r\ndried for 6-7 days and then grinded in a\r\nmixture grinder. The powdered material thus\r\nobtained was used for the extraction. The\r\naqueous extract of these plant materials was\r\nprepared on per cent basis as per the method\r\nof Gahukar (1996) and Sharma et al. (1997)\r\nBiological Forum – An International Journal, 1(1): 47-50 (2009)\r\nRakesh Kumar et al. 48\r\nfor which a stock solution of 20%\r\nconcentration was prepared by dissolving 20\r\ngram of each plant material in 80 ml of water\r\nand used at different concentrations. The\r\nethanol extract was obtained through Soxhlet\r\napparatus. Further dilutions were made by\r\nusing the respective solvent by single dilution\r\nmethod. To study the ovicidal effect of\r\ndifferent plant extracts the leaf portion with\r\negg masses of the diamondback moth was\r\ndipped instantly for 10 seconds into the\r\nsolution of desired plant extracts, air dried and\r\nthen placed into Petri dish (9 cm diameter)\r\nhaving moist filter paper at the bottom. The\r\negg masses in control were dipped in distilled\r\nwater. The observations on egg hatchability\r\nwere recorded up to 7 days and per cent egg\r\nhatching was calculated.\r\nRESULTS AND DISCUSSION\r\nThe studies reveal that the aqueous extract of\r\nM. azedarach leaf at 10 per cent concentration\r\ngave minimum egg hatch of 59.9 per cent\r\nwhereas at 1 per cent concentration, the egg\r\nhatch was maximum (86.3%) and was at par\r\nwith control (Table 1). However the\r\nalcoholic extract of this plant resulted in 24.4\r\nper cent egg hatch at 10 per cent concentration\r\nwhereas it was 86.6 per cent at 1 per cent and\r\n90 per cent in the untreated control. The\r\naqueous extract of L. camara seed resulted in\r\n73.2 and 86.5 per cent egg hatch, respectively\r\nat 10 and 1 per cent concentrations in\r\ncomparison to 90.9 per cent egg hatch in\r\ncontrol, whereas the alcoholic extract of this\r\nplant gave 64.4 and 91.1 per cent egg hatch at\r\nthe respective concentrations in comparison to\r\n92.1 per cent in control. The comparison of\r\naqueous and alcoholic extract of A. annua\r\nseed revealed that at 10 per cent concentration,\r\nthe egg hatch was 77.7 and 31.1 per cent,\r\nrespectively however, at 1 per cent the egg\r\nhatch was 90.9 and 82.2 per cent in\r\ncomparison to 91.1 and 84.4 per cent in the\r\nuntreated control for the respective solvents.\r\nThe aqueous and alcoholic extracts of C.\r\nsativa leaf resulted in egg hatch of 82.2 and\r\n75.5 per cent at 10 per cent concentration\r\nwhereas in the respective solvents at 1 per\r\ncent, the egg hatch was 86.5 and 81.1 per cent\r\nin comparison to 90.9 and 97.7 per cent egg\r\nhatch in control. On comparing different plant\r\nextracts, the extract of M. azedarach (leaf)\r\nwas found to be more effective in causing 69.7\r\nper cent egg hatch and was statistically at par\r\nwith A. annua (seed) extract giving 75.5 per\r\ncent egg hatch. This was followed by mean\r\nper cent egg hatch in seed extract of L. camara\r\n(81.1%) and leaf extract of C. sativa (85.8%)\r\nand these were significantly different from\r\neach other. When the comparison of aqueous\r\nand alcoholic extract was made, the aqueous\r\nextract was found to be effective in causing\r\n71.8 per cent egg hatch and was significantly\r\ndifferent with the ethanol extract giving 82.8\r\nper cent egg hatch (Table 1).\r\nThe studies thus indicated the superiority\r\nof M. azedarach leaf extract to all other plants\r\nextracts tested in the present studies. Mishra\r\n(1990) also observed 76.7 and 91.7 per cent\r\negg mortality (infertility) at 5 and 10 per cent\r\nconcentration of aqueous extract of M.\r\nazedarach leaf. Deka et al., (1998) also\r\nreported the superiority of M. azedarach drupe\r\naqueous extract to that of the aqueous extract\r\nof L. camara seed at 2, 5, 8 and 10 per cent\r\nconcentrations. The less efficiency of the\r\naqueous extracts in the present study might to\r\nbe due to poor extraction of active ingredients\r\nin water. Singh et al. (1978) reported that the\r\nextract from plant material has the ability to\r\npenetrate the chorion of egg thus causing the\r\ndeath of developing embryo. This fact can\r\nalso be well supported by the findings of\r\nDilawari et al. (1994) who reported the postovipositional\r\neffects of kernel extract of M.\r\nazedarach with ethanol where less number of\r\neggs of P. xylostella were hatched and\r\nsubsequently those hatched resulted in\r\nmortality in larval and pupal stages and\r\nmalformed adults. The results on the\r\neffectiveness of M. azedarach leaves draw\r\nconsiderable supports from the findings of\r\nSandhu et al. (1994) who reported 45.1 per\r\ncent egg hatch in P. brassicae when cabbage\r\nleaves were treated with chloroform:methanol\r\nfraction of M. azedarach. Bhathal et al.\r\n(1991) also observed 6.7 and 3.3 per cent egg\r\nhatch in Dysdercus koenigii when eggs were\r\ntreated with 0.25 and 0.5 per cent extracts of\r\nAgeratum houstonianum. The results also\r\n49 Biological Forum – An International Journal, 1(1): 53-50 (2009)\r\ncorroborate the studies of Sharma et al.,\r\n(1997) who reported the effectiveness of\r\nalcoholic extract of M. azedarach over the\r\naqueous extract. The alcohol extract of dharek\r\nresulted in 10.37 per cent reduction in eggs\r\nhatch over the control in comparison to\r\naqueous extract where 6.7 per cent egg hatch\r\nwas observed.','Rakesh Kumar, K.C. Sharma and Dharminder Kumar (2009).Studies on ovicidal effects of some plant extracts against the diamondback moth, Plutella xylostella (L.) infesting cauliflower crop. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 1(1): 47-50. '),(4644,'131','Standardization of technology for extraction of wild apricot kernel oil at\r\nsemi-pilot scale','Anil Gupta and P.C. Sharma','9 DR ANIL GUPTA.pdf','',1,'The suitability of wild apricot stones for extraction of kernel oil for its use for both edible and\r\npharmaceutical purposes was evaluated at semi-pilot scale. The pits/stones of wild apricot otherwise\r\nconsidered as waste and are thrown away by the farmers. Mean fruit weight in bitter and sweet\r\nkernelled apricots ranged between 8.0-15.1g and 16.0-18.3g with the stone recovery of 12.7-22.2%\r\nand 11.7-13.3% respectively. The use of mechanical decorticator was found most appropriate for\r\ncrushing of stones/pits with respect to ease of handling, efficiency and economy of the operation.\r\nDipping of crushed shells and kernels in 25% salt solution was found optimum for separation of\r\nkernels. Dipping of kernels in 25% salt solution prior to oil extraction also brought about complete\r\nremoval of bittering component-HCN in oils. The use of table oil expeller was optimized for\r\nextraction of oil from separated kernels with an oil yield of 38-40% in wild apricot fruit kernels. The\r\noil possessed good nutritional and pharmaceutical significance and can be utilized in different\r\npharmaceutical preparations. The method of oil extraction was found quite cost effective and can be\r\nadopted at semi commercial scale.','Wild apricot, stones/pits, kernels, mechanical decorticator, specific gravity, HCN','The suitability of wild apricot stones for extraction of kernel oil for its use for both edible and\r\npharmaceutical purposes was evaluated at semi-pilot scale. The pits/stones of wild apricot otherwise\r\nconsidered as waste and are thrown away by the farmers. Mean fruit weight in bitter and sweet\r\nkernelled apricots ranged between 8.0-15.1g and 16.0-18.3g with the stone recovery of 12.7-22.2%\r\nand 11.7-13.3% respectively. The use of mechanical decorticator was found most appropriate for\r\ncrushing of stones/pits with respect to ease of handling, efficiency and economy of the operation.\r\nDipping of crushed shells and kernels in 25% salt solution was found optimum for separation of\r\nkernels. Dipping of kernels in 25% salt solution prior to oil extraction also brought about complete\r\nremoval of bittering component-HCN in oils. The use of table oil expeller was optimized for\r\nextraction of oil from separated kernels with an oil yield of 38-40% in wild apricot fruit kernels. The\r\noil possessed good nutritional and pharmaceutical significance and can be utilized in different\r\npharmaceutical preparations. The method of oil extraction was found quite cost effective and can be\r\nadopted at semi commercial scale.','Wild apricot (Prunus armeniaca L.)\r\ncommonly known as chulli, chulu, Zardalu or\r\nsahare are extensively grown as wild in\r\nJammu & Kashmir, Himachal Pradesh.,\r\nUttranchal, and in many parts of Northeastern\r\nstates. Availability of apricot stones\r\nand kernels in India and Himachal Pradesh are\r\ngiven in Table-1. Owing to their short harvest\r\nseason and poor shelf life, these fruits are\r\nmostly used for making local liquor (Ghanti),\r\nopen sun drying and extraction of pulp to\r\nprepare some home made products. The\r\nstone/pits left after these operations usually\r\npossess no commercial value and are treated\r\nas waste, which otherwise is a good source of\r\nedible oil containing high amount of\r\nunsaturated fatty acids. Generally, apricot\r\nfruits comprise of 11.7-22.2% stones, which\r\nyield 30.7-33.7 % kernels, which may be both\r\nsweet as well as bitter in taste. Both types of\r\nkernels can be utilized for extraction of oil.\r\nLocally, the kernel oil from apricot\r\n(chulli),wild peach (behmi) and hard shelled\r\nwalnut is already being used to a limited\r\nextent by the local tribal in some parts of the\r\ncountry for food, massaging and for other\r\nhome made remedies. Owing to the\r\navailability of these fruits in large quantity,\r\nthere exists a good scope for its utilization for\r\nextraction of oil. According to Shah (1985) the\r\napricot fruits comprising of 6-11% of the\r\nstones constitute about 22-38% of kernels,\r\nwhich possess good potential for extraction of\r\noil.\r\nHowever, this potential remained\r\nunexploited due to lack of appropriate\r\ntechnology for crushing of stones to separate\r\nkernels, removal of bittering components from\r\nthe kernels and oil extraction for its adoption\r\nat semi-commercial scale. Thus, these studies\r\nwere undertaken to develop a suitable method\r\nfor mechanical decortication of stones, kernel\r\nseparation, oil extraction and its quality\r\ncharacterization for its use at semi-pilot scale.\r\nMATERIALS AND METHODS\r\nThe stone/pits of wild apricot fruits left after\r\nutilization of edible portion in the preparation\r\nBiological Forum – An International Journal, 1(1): 51-64 (2009)\r\nAnil Gupta and P.C. Sharma 52\r\nof pulp were collected from Mandi, Kinnaur\r\nand Shimla areas of Himachal Pradesh.\r\nDecortication of stone/pits was carried out\r\nmanually and by using mechanical\r\ndecorticator, which was got fabricated from\r\nthe Division of Agricultural Engineering,\r\nIndian Agricultural Research Institute, New\r\nDelhi (India). The mechanical decorticator is a\r\ntype of roller crusher consisting of two rollers\r\nmoving in inward opposite directions with the\r\nhelp of 3 HP motor and is provided with a\r\nhopper and feeder assembly. The clearance\r\nbetween two rollers was adjusted according to\r\nthe respective size of stones. The efficiency of\r\nthe mechanical decorticator was compared\r\nwith that of manual breaking of stones (yield\r\nof decorticated stones per hour). The method\r\nfor kernel separation from the\r\ndecorticated/crushed mass was standardized\r\nby using different concentrations of salt (15,\r\n20 and 25%) having specific gravities of\r\n1.115, 1.158 and 1.188 respectively and\r\ncompared against traditionally used manual\r\nmethod. The efficiency of kernel separation\r\nwas calculated by measuring the quantity of\r\nseparated kernels from the crushed mass in a\r\ngiven time interval. The oil from separated\r\nkernels was extracted by solvent extraction\r\nmethod using petroleum ether as the solvent\r\nand by the use of table oil expeller. Table oil\r\nexpeller (M/S Sardar Engineering Company,\r\nKanpur, India) is a 24 patti screw type oil\r\nexpeller driven by 7HP motor, in which the\r\nkernels are fed into the moving hopper at\r\npredetermined flow rate, which are pressed in\r\nbetween rollers (worm) and side walls of the\r\nexpeller. The kernels were passed through\r\nexpeller 3-4 times until a thin slice of press\r\ncake is obtained. The oil after coarse filtration\r\nthrough a filter press was packed in presterilized\r\nglass/PET bottles and kept in a cool\r\ndry place. The oil yield was compared with the\r\napricot oil extracted through the traditionally\r\nused oil press (portable power ghani) and baby\r\noil expeller as well as after solvent extraction\r\nthrough Soxtec oil extraction apparatus (M/S\r\nVelp Scientifica, Italy).\r\nAnalyses\r\nStandard analytical procedures were followed\r\nfor estimation of iodine value, saponification\r\nvalue, acid value and peroxide value in the\r\nextracted oils (AOAC, 1995). The specific\r\ngravity and refractive index was determined as\r\nper methods detailed by Ranganna (1997),\r\nwhile colour of the oils was determined by\r\nusing Lovibond Colour Tintometer (Model E,\r\nAF-900) using one inch cell (Ranganna,\r\n1986). The hydrocyanic acid was determined\r\nby using Alkaline-titration method (AOAC,\r\n1995). The fatty acid composition of the\r\napricot kernel oil was determined according to\r\nthe method of Metcalfe et al. (1966) by\r\nconverting oil in to respective fatty acid\r\nmethyl esters and by using gas liquid\r\nchromatography (GLC). Vitamin E in the oil\r\nwas estimated using method as detailed by\r\nPearson, (1976).\r\nStatistical analysis: Triplicate determinations\r\nwere made for each attribute and the data\r\npertaining to physico-chemical characteristics\r\nwere statistically analysed using logarithmic\r\ntransformation and Factorial Completely\r\nRandomized Design (Cochran and Cox, 1967\r\nand Gomez and Gomez, 1984). The cost of\r\nproduction of apricot oil was worked out after\r\ntaking in to consideration all the input\r\nparameters and adding 20% profit margin.\r\nRESULTS AND DISCUSSION\r\nPhysico-chemical characteristics of apricot\r\nfruits, stones and kernels: Broadly, mean fruit\r\nand stone weight ranged between 8.0-15.1g\r\nand 1.8-1.9g respectively. The highest stone\r\nrecovery was recorded in wild apricots\r\ncollected from Mandi area. The shell thickness\r\nwas found maximum (1.2-1.4mm) in bitter\r\nkernelled apricot stones. The kernel recovery\r\n(%) was however higher in wild apricot stones\r\n(33.7%) grown in Karsog area of Mandi\r\ndistrict and minimum in stones collected from\r\nShimla district (30.7%). In conformation to\r\nour results, the kernel recoveries in apricot\r\nstones of different regions was reported as\r\n30% (Aggarwal et al., 1974); 34% (Hallabo et\r\nal., 1975) and 22-38% in sweet and bitter\r\napricots (Anonymous, 2005). Further oil yield\r\nobtained through solvent extraction ranged\r\nbetween 45.6-46.3% found in wild bitter\r\napricot kernels. The apricot oil yield reported\r\nby earlier workers was 35-45% (Dang et al.,\r\n53 Biological Forum – An International Journal, 1(1): 51-64 (2009)\r\n1964); 48% (Parmar and Sharma, 1992) and\r\n48.6% by Hallabo et al (1975). Qualitatively,\r\nthe bitter apricot kernels showed the presence\r\nof HCN- a bittering component, whereas the\r\nsweet apricot kernels were completely free of\r\nthis component. Further, on the basis of\r\n13,280 metric tonnes of cultivated and wild\r\napricots grown in India , about 1791 metric\r\ntonnes of stones can be collected, which can\r\nyield about 572 metric tonnes of kernels\r\n(Table-2). Thus, utilization of kernels for the\r\nextraction of oil can add up to 268 metric\r\ntonnes of oil in the national oil pool.\r\nDecortication/Crushing of Stones: Breaking of\r\nstones/pits of wild apricots followed by\r\nseparation of kernels is the most timeconsuming\r\nand difficult unit operation. Data in\r\nTable-3 reveal that only 3.2-4.4 kg of stones\r\ncould be broken manually within one hour as\r\nagainst 120 kg decortication obtained by using\r\nmechanical decorticator within the given time\r\ninterval. Further it was also observed that\r\nkernels were not crushed by using mechanical\r\ndecortication while through manual crushing,\r\nsometimes kernels also got crushed, thus\r\nmaking the separation most difficult. Minor\r\nvariation in decortication within stones of\r\ndifferent wild apricots was due to the variation\r\nin size and hardness of the stones. Further,\r\nmanual breaking of stones yielded 95.1-95.5%\r\nof crushed stones against the efficiency of\r\n85.4-86.5% obtained by using mechanical\r\ndecortication. The stones which remained\r\nuncrushed/ undecorticated were either very\r\nsmall in size or they passed through the\r\nsidewalls of the roller. These findings thus\r\nsuggest the need for grading of stones prior to\r\ntheir decortication and some modification in\r\nadjustment of the rollers. Mechanical\r\ndecorticator was also found very cost effective\r\nas compared to manual breaking. Thus,\r\nkeeping in view the ease of handling, cost of\r\ndecortication and better yield of crushed mass\r\nper unit time, and decortication of stones has\r\nbeen optimised.\r\nKernel separation: From the crushed mass of\r\nstones/pits, the kernels are separated manually,\r\nwhich is most time consuming and laborious\r\nunit operation. In order to improve the\r\nefficiency of operation, different methods of\r\nkernel separation were attempted viz.\r\nfloatation in water, specific gravity separation\r\nand manual separation. Data in Table-4 reveal\r\nthat dipping crushed mass in 25% salt solution\r\nbrought about complete separation of kernels\r\nwhich floated on the top of salt solution due to\r\ndifference in density of kernels while shells\r\nsettled at the bottom. Using salt solution of\r\nlower concentration i.e. 5, 10, 15% did not\r\nyield optimum separation of kernels.\r\nSimilarly, dipping crushed mass in simple tap\r\nwater (floatation in water) was found\r\naltogether unsuitable. Comparatively low\r\nkernel separation obtained manually was\r\nprobably due to the presence of excessively\r\ncrushed/pressed kernels, which were difficult\r\nto separate manually. Further, it was observed\r\nthat by using specific gravity separation, 6.3-\r\n7.3 kg kernels were got separated within one\r\nhour against the manual separation of only\r\n610-620 g kernels. Besides, the specific\r\ngravity separation has also drastically reduced\r\nthe cost of kernel separation. Thus, the use of\r\nspecific gravity separation method by using\r\n25% salt solution has been optimised for\r\nkernel separation.\r\nDetection and Removal of bittering component\r\nfrom wild apricot kernels: The kernels from\r\napricot stones showed the presence of hydro\r\ncyanic acid (HCN) __ a bittering/toxic\r\ncomponent, which is known to be produced\r\ndue to the hydrolysis of amygdalins. The HCN\r\ncontents in Bitter apricot kernels ranged\r\nbetween 148-173 mg/100g, however its\r\npresence was not detected in sweet kernels of\r\nwild apricot stones. The oil extracted through\r\nsolvent oil extractor (Soxtec) did not contain\r\nany HCN. While oil obtained through Oil\r\nexpeller did show the presence of HCN.\r\nBesides, the cake left after oil extraction\r\nthrough solvent extraction contained about\r\n75% of total HCN found in the kernels. Thus\r\nthe commercial method of oil extraction needs\r\nsome modification in oil extraction process to\r\nminimize the presence of HCN in the oil.\r\nThe effectiveness of different methods\r\nwas evaluated for removal of HCN from the\r\napricot kernels (Table 5). With the increase in\r\nduration of the treatment, the extent of\r\nremoval of HCN from the kernels increased\r\nhowever soaking the kernels in water to\r\nactivate the inherent enzyme -glucosidase\r\nAnil Gupta and P.C. Sharma 54\r\n(emulsin) did not exert any appreciable effect\r\non removal of HCN from the kernels as\r\nimmersion of kernels in water up to 60\r\nminutes could reduce the HCN only up to\r\n12.36-15.03 % in apricot kernels. However,\r\ndipping of kernels in 5ppm -glucosidase for\r\n40-50 minutes resulted in complete\r\ndetoxification of apricot kernels but this\r\nmethod is so costly.\r\nFurther, blanching of kernels did help in\r\nalmost complete detoxification of apricot\r\nkernels from the HCN contents. Among\r\ndifferent methods of detoxification the use of\r\n10 % sodium thiosulphate for different\r\nintervals was found to be most effective for\r\ncomplete detoxification depending upon the\r\ninitial HCN levels in kernels from different\r\nlocations. Earlier, the dipping of kernels in 20\r\n% salt solution of 1.158 specific gravity for 5\r\nminutes was standardized for complete\r\nremoval of HCN (Sharma et al. 2004).\r\nFurther, it is reported that the apricot kernel oil\r\nfree of hydro-cyanic acid, which might be\r\nattributed to the type of apricot kernels used\r\nfor extraction, as kernels from sweet kernelled\r\napricots are known to be free of hydro-cyanic\r\nacid (Hallabo et al, 1975).\r\nHowever, dipping of kernels in 10 %\r\nsodium thiosulphate solution was found most\r\neffective as sulphur containing compounds\r\nlike sodium thiosulphate is often used as a part\r\nof antidotal treatment to ensure that there is\r\nample sulphur available to detoxify all the\r\ncyanide. The detoxification was probably\r\nachieved due to reaction of sodium\r\nthiosulphate with the cyanide to form sodium\r\nthiocyanate, which could get solubilized in\r\nwater. The extents of HCN present in the oil\r\nand press cake after each treatment is\r\npresented in Table 6. The oil and press cake\r\nobtained from kernels after blanching for 20\r\nminutes and immersion in 10% sodium\r\nthiosulphate solution for 30-40 minutes did\r\nnot show any presence of HCN, while, the oil\r\nand press cake obtained after immersion in\r\nwater at different intervals showed the\r\npresence of HCN in both oil and press cake.\r\nKernel oil extraction: The mean oil yield\r\nfrom apricot kernels extracted by using table\r\noil expeller was 37.5-38.5 % against the oil\r\nrecovery of 31.5-32.0% and 28.5-29.0%\r\nobtained through baby oil expeller and oil\r\npress (power ghani) respectively (Table-7).\r\nComparatively low oil yield through oil press\r\nwas probably due to the exertion of less\r\npressure for oil extraction and the use of\r\nwooden contact parts, which are known to\r\nabsorb some oil during extraction processes.\r\nThe oil recovery through solvent extraction\r\nwas however 45.6-47.0%. Comparatively low\r\noil yield through oil press was probably due to\r\nthe exertion of less pressure for oil extraction\r\nand the use of wooden contact parts, which are\r\nknown to absorb some oil during the\r\nextraction process. Thus, the use of table oil\r\nexpeller was found most appropriate with\r\nappreciably higher oil yield with minimum\r\nHCN and has been optimized for its use at\r\ncommercial scale. It also involved minimal\r\nexposure of kernels to heat thus preserving the\r\nnatural flavour of oil.\r\nQuality characteristics of apricot kernel oil:\r\nThe wild apricot kernel oil extracted through\r\ndifferent methods was evaluated for physicochemical\r\ncharacteristics and the visual\r\nappearance of extracted oil was observed to be\r\nlight to deep yellow in colour. Further, the oil\r\nobtained through solvent extraction and oil\r\npress had the iodine value of 100.2-100.4 g\r\nI2/100g as against the value of 100.2-100.8g\r\nI2/100g obtained in oil extracted through table\r\noil expeller (Table-8). The effect of oil\r\nextraction method however was found to be\r\nnon- significant. The saponification value\r\n(mgKOH/g oil) representing the average\r\nmolecular weight of the oil was recorded as\r\n189.5 – 191.1 in the oil extracted through\r\nsolvent extraction method, 190.9 – 191.9 in\r\nthe oil extracted through oil press and 191.5-\r\n192.7 in oil obtained from table oil expeller.\r\nSimilarly, the peroxide value (meq/kg oil) was\r\nrecorded lowest in oils extracted through\r\nsolvent extraction (5.1-5.4) while, the oil\r\nextracted through oil press showed highest\r\nperoxide value of 6.6-6.7 followed by the oil\r\nextracted by using baby oil expeller (6.5–6.7).\r\nFurther, the apricot kernel oil extracted by\r\nusing either methods of extraction did not\r\nshow much variation in its quality\r\ncharacteristics except for peroxide value\r\nwhich was slightly higher under both the\r\n55 Biological Forum – An International Journal, 1(1): 51-64 (2009)\r\nmethod of oil extraction i.e. oil press and table\r\noil expeller.\r\nFatty acid composition of apricot kernel oil:\r\nThe fatty acids in the apricot kernel oil were\r\nidentified as palmitic (7.79%), palmitoleic\r\n(0.48%), stearic (0.93%), oleic (62.07%),\r\nlinoleic (27.76%) and linolenic acid (1.42%).\r\nIt was found that apricot oil possessed an\r\nappreciable proportion of unsaturated fatty\r\nacids which comprised of 62.55 per cent\r\nmonounsaturates and 29.18 per cent\r\npolyunsaturates. While the saturates were only\r\n8.72 per cent thus the ratio between\r\nunsaturates and saturates (U/S) was recorded\r\nas 10.51. Among the unsaturated fatty acids,\r\noleic acid (C 18:1) and linoleic acid (C 18:2)\r\nwere the predominant acids in apricot kernel\r\noil (Table-9).\r\nEarlier, Sherin et al. (1993) recorded a\r\nvalue of 68.88% oleic acid and 15.77 %\r\nlinoleic acid in kernel oil of NJA-13 apricot\r\ncultivar grown in Pakistan. Beyer and Melton\r\n(1990) also reported the presence of 69% and\r\n26% of oleic and linoleic acid respectively in\r\napricot kernel oil. According to Kapoor et al.,\r\n(1987) the oleic and linoleic acid content of\r\ndifferent cultivars of apricot grown in Ladakh\r\nregion ranged between 50.95 to 83.33% and\r\n9.62 to 45.90% respectively. The oils rich in\r\npolyunsaturated fatty acids have been shown\r\nto reduce the risk of cardio vascular diseases\r\n(Agar et al.1995). Linoleic and linolenic acids\r\nare essential fatty acids and are important for\r\nmaintenance of skin, hair growth, regulation\r\nof cholesterol metabolism and maintenance of\r\ncell membrane integrity (Sardesai, 1997).\r\nThus, apricot oil possesses special dietary\r\nimportance and can be used for both edible\r\nand pharmaceutical purposes.\r\nCost of production: The cost of production of\r\napricot oil has been calculated assuming\r\nprocessing of 1000kg apricot stones to extract\r\noil within one month. Data in Table-10 reveals\r\nthat from 1000kg stones, about 320kg kernels\r\nare obtained to extract 121.6kg oil. For\r\nestablishment of oil extraction unit a sum of\r\nRs. 1,31,000/- is required for procurement of\r\nmachinery excluding the cost of land and\r\nbuilding. Total recurring cost including\r\ndepreciation cost and interest on the capital\r\nworks out to Rs. 29,070/- for extraction of\r\n121.6kg oil. While total cost of production\r\nincluding 20% profit margin has been\r\ncalculated to be Rs. 287/- per kg against the\r\nprevalent sale price of Rs. 300/- per kg. It is\r\nfurther revealed that cottage scale unit can\r\ngenerate employment for atleast one person\r\nper unit to process apricot stones with profit\r\nmargins of 20-25%.\r\nThus utilization of apricot kernels for\r\nextraction of oils seems to be a profitable\r\nproposition for the efficient utilization of\r\nstones/pits which otherwise is thrown as a\r\nwaste. Preparation of such oils may also open\r\nan avenue for their utilization in various\r\npurposes viz., pharmaceuticals, and cosmetics\r\nand in the food industry. Establishment of oil\r\nextraction unit adjoining fruit processing unit\r\nwould not only supplement processor’s\r\nincome but also help in checking environment\r\npollution.','Anil Gupta and P.C. Sharma (2009). Standardization of technology for extraction of wild apricot kernel oil at semi-pilot scale. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 1(1): 51-64. '),(4645,'131','Effect of plant root extracts to control root-knot nematode\r\n(Meloidogyne spp.) of soybean (Glycine max)','Ranjitsingh K. Nimbalkar and Sucheta K. Rajurkar','10.pdf','',1,'Chemical control of plant-parasitic nematodes, essentially, involves the use of synthetic nematicides.\r\nHowever, apart from its very high cost, increased concern for the environment has necessitated a\r\nreduction in the amount of nematicide used for nematode control. Additionally, there has been an\r\nincrease in the intensity of search for other efficient, ecologically sound and safe control methods.\r\nMeloidogyne spp. (Kofoid and White) Chitwood, eggs were exposed to concentrations of root extracts\r\nof Siam weed [Chromolaena odorata (L.) King and Robinson], Neem (Azadirachta indica A. Jass),\r\nCastor bean (Ricinus communis L.) and Lemon grass (Cymbopogon citratrus (DC.) Stapf). One\r\nhundred percent concentration of root extracts of Siam weed and Neem exhibited 100% inhibition of\r\negg hatch and larval mortality. While 100% concentration of root extracts of Castor bean and\r\nLemon grass exhibited 93 and 95% inhibition of egg hatch and 62.1 and 75% larval mortality\r\nrespectively. Egg inhibition and larval mortality decreased with an increase in the dilution of all the\r\nextracts. Similarly with an increase in exposure time, juvenile mortality was also increased.\r\nSignificant differences were also observed in the concentrations of the root extracts in respect of the\r\ntwo parameters.','Edible soybean, larval mortality, Meloidogyne spp., root extracts','It has been concluded from present research\r\nthat certain plant extracts are a source of cheap\r\nand effective nematicides of root knot\r\nnematodes. The root extracts of Neem, Siam\r\nweed, Lemon grass and Castor bean were\r\nfound to have nematicidal properties. This\r\nfinding is important from the point of view of\r\ncontrolling root-knot nematodes affecting\r\nedible soybean without the use of nematicides\r\nin view of the environmental pollution likely\r\nto cause. The future looks bright for\r\nidentifying new classes of pesticides from\r\nnatural plants to replace the synthetic\r\ndangerous and expensive chemicals used at\r\npresent. The cooperation of nematologists,\r\nbreeders, chemists, ecologists and others in the\r\nfield of agriculture is necessary to achieve\r\nmaximum progress in this important field of\r\nresearch.','Among various pests and diseases, which\r\ndamage crops, plant-parasitic nematodes\r\npresent a formidable pest problem for different\r\ncrops. Most species attack and feed on plant\r\nroots and underground plant parts. Root-knot\r\nnematode (Meloidogyne spp.), is an important\r\npest of vegetables. Its approximate distribution\r\nin agricultural soils of India is 75% among\r\nMeloidogyne species. It attacks almost all the\r\ncultivated plants and can cause high losses.\r\nInitially, very few pests and diseases were\r\nfound on edible soybean (Glycine max (L.)\r\nMerr.) in India. As cultivation expanded and\r\nbecame more intensive, pest and disease\r\nproblems increased in incidence and severity\r\n(Akem 1991 and Akem et al., 1992).\r\nNematodes did not initially constitute a\r\nserious problem on edible soybean, although\r\nsome important nematode species were found\r\nattacking the crop (Caveness 1967 and\r\nOgunfowora et al., 1983). With more intensive\r\ncultivation of edible soybean in areas that are\r\nfrequently used in growing other vegetables,\r\ndamage from root-knot nematode to edible\r\nsoybean is increasing. Greenhouse studies\r\nconfirmed this (Afolami 1999 and Atungwu\r\n2001).\r\nIndiscriminate use of synthetic pesticides\r\nfor controlling nematodes is likely to give rise\r\nto phytotoxicity, environmental pollution and\r\nnematode resistance. Unsafe use of pesticides\r\nmay result in poisoning of humans is a\r\nproblem especially in developing countries\r\n(Yudelman et al., 1998 and Conway 1995).\r\nToxicity of root extracts of different plants\r\nagainst nematodes has been reported by many\r\nresearchers (Onifade et al., 1994 and Hackney,\r\net al., 1975). In view of damage potential of\r\nthese tiny hidden enemies of crop plants, an\r\nurgent need was felt for initiating coordinated\r\nefforts at national level pertaining to nematode\r\ndistribution, assessment of crop losses and for\r\ndeveloping nematode management\r\ntechnologies. The present research was\r\nundertaken to evaluate plant root extracts to\r\ncontrol root-knot nematode on edible soybean.\r\nBiological Forum – An International Journal, 1(1): 65-68 (2009)\r\nRanjitsingh K. Nimbalkar and Sucheta K. Rajurkar 66\r\nMATERIALS AND METHODS\r\nPreparation of extracts\r\nTwenty-five gram of thoroughly washed and\r\nchopped roots of Siam weeds Chromolaena\r\nodorata (L.) King and Robinson), Neem\r\n(Azadirachta indica A. Jass), Castor bean\r\n(Ricinus communis L.) and Lemon grass\r\n(Cymbopogon citratrus (DC.) Stapf) were\r\nground separately in an electric grinder in 100\r\nmL of distilled water. These were then\r\ncentrifuged and filtered through Whatman No.\r\n1 Filter Paper (Whatman, Bristol, UK) and\r\nconstituted the undiluted (100%) treatment.\r\nThis extract was diluted 5, 10 and 20 times\r\nwith distilled water.\r\nExtraction of juveniles\r\nRoot-knot nematode was identified on the\r\nbasis of perineal pattern Eisenback et al. It\r\nwas maintained on the edible soybean cv.\r\nTGX 1485-1D and the second juveniles were\r\nextracted from roots using the tray method of\r\nWhitehead and Hemming.\r\nExtraction of eggs\r\nEgg masses collected from edible soybean\r\nroots were vigorously shaken with 200ml of\r\n5.2% sodium hypochlorite in stopper flasks for\r\n2 min. Eggs were washed by rinsing with tap\r\nwater through a 75 μm sieves, collected on a\r\n26 μm sieve and transferred into distilled\r\nwater forming egg suspension.\r\nEffect of root extract on egg hatching\r\nA small drop of eggs suspended in distilled\r\nwater was placed in Petri dishes and eggs\r\ncounted under a stereo microscope. Ten\r\nmilliliter of the undiluted and each dilution of\r\nroot extract of each plant were added. Petri\r\ndishes containing distilled water served as\r\ncontrols. Each treatment was replicated four\r\ntimes. The Petri dishes were incubated at room\r\ntemperature. Hatching was observed after 7\r\ndays and the percentage inhibition calculated\r\nas follow.\r\nEffect of root extracts on larval mortality\r\nTen milliliter of the undiluted and each\r\ndilution of root extract of each plant were\r\nseparately poured into Petri dishes and 1ml of\r\nsuspensions containing 20 freshly hatched\r\njuveniles were added to each Petri dish. All\r\ntreatments were replicated four times. The\r\nPetri dishes were incubated at room\r\ntemperature. Percent mortality was calculated\r\nafter 12, 24 and 48 h. All the data collected\r\nwere analyzed using analysis of variance and\r\nmeans separated with the Duncan Multiple\r\nRange Test (Gomez et al., 1984).\r\nRESULTS AND DISCUSSION\r\nEgg hatch\r\nTable shows the effect of concentration of\r\nextracts of plants on number of eggs and\r\npercentage hatch inhibition indicated that one\r\nhundred percent concentration of root extracts\r\nof Siam weed and Neem gave the maximum\r\ninhibition of egg hatching (100%) followed by\r\nLemon grass and Castor bean with 95 and\r\n93.2% inhibition, respectively. Other dilutions\r\nviz. 20, 10 and 5%, though significant, were\r\nless effective as compared to 100%\r\nconcentration. It is evident that as extract was\r\ndiluted; toxicity was decreased resulting in\r\ncorrespondent decrease in inhibition and\r\nminimum inhibition was observed in distilled\r\nwater (0% concentration). The inhibitory\r\neffect of the extracts might be due to the\r\nchemicals present in the extracts that possess\r\novicidal and larvicidal properties.\r\nThese chemicals either affected the\r\nembryonic development or killed the eggs or\r\neven dissolved the egg masses. It has been\r\nreported (Adegbite 2003, Goswami et al.,\r\n1986 and Hackney et al., 1975) that extracts\r\ncontained alkaloids, flavonoids, saponins,\r\namides including benzamide and ketones that\r\nsingly and in combination inhibited hatching.\r\nLarval mortality\r\nTable shows the effects of larval mortality\r\nover time due to the concentration of extracts\r\nof roots of the test plants. The root extracts of\r\ntest plants were effective in causing larval\r\nmortality; 100% concentration of extracts\r\nbeing more efficacious and show high\r\nsignificant difference than other\r\nconcentrations. 100% concentration extracts of\r\nSiam weed and Neem showed 100% mortality\r\neven after 12 h of exposure time. While 100%\r\nconcentration of Lemon grass and Castor bean\r\nshowed 75 and 62.1% mortality after 12 h of\r\nexposure time. The juvenile mortality\r\nincreased with increase in exposure time. The\r\n67 Biological Forum – An International Journal, 1(1): 65-68 (2009)\r\nmortality was found to differ significantly\r\nbetween different concentrations of extracts of\r\nthe tested plants at all the three intervals tried\r\n(12, 24 and 48hrs.). As the exposure period\r\nincreased mortality increased to 87.5 and\r\n75.6%, respectively in Lemon grass and\r\nCastor bean at 100% concentration of the root\r\nextracts.','Ranjitsingh K. Nimbalkar and Sucheta K. Rajurkar (2009). Effect of plant root extracts to control root-knot nematode (Meloidogyne spp.) of soybean (Glycine max). Biological Forum – An International Journal, 1(1): 65-68. '),(4646,'131','On a collection of Orthoptera fauna from Veerangana Durgavati\r\nWildlife Sanctuary, Madhya Pradesh, India','Kailash Chandra and Sunil Kumar Gupta','11.pdf','',1,'The paper deals with the collection of Orthoptera of Veerangana Durgavati Wildlife Sanctuary,\r\nMadhya Pradesh, which includes the study of 18 species pertaining to 18 genera under 6 families','Orthoptera, Veerangana Durgavati Wildlife Sanctuary, Madhya Pradesh','The paper deals with the collection of Orthoptera of Veerangana Durgavati Wildlife Sanctuary,\r\nMadhya Pradesh, which includes the study of 18 species pertaining to 18 genera under 6 families','Veerangana Durgavati Wildlife Sanctuary\r\n(VDWLS) is situated in Damoh district of\r\nMadhya Pradesh. The area of the sanctuary is\r\n24 sq. km., which lies between latitudes 23º\r\n30´ to 23º 35´ N and longitudes 79º 40´ to 79º\r\n50´ E. The area is situated on both sides of\r\nJabalpur-Damoh State highway. The\r\nSanctuary has a variety of natural assets and\r\nwonderful settings of Archeological\r\nmonuments of Singoragarh. The vegetation of\r\nthe sanctuary area is mainly tropical mixed dry\r\ndeciduous forest. The most common species\r\nare Bija (Pterocarpus marsupium), Saja\r\n(Terminalia alata), Tendu (Pterocarpus\r\nmarsupium) Dhaora (Anogeisus latifolia),\r\nMahua (Madhuca indica), Palas (Butea\r\nmonosperma) and Lendia (Lagerstroemia\r\nparviflora).\r\nA stray account of Orthoptera fauna of\r\nMadhya Pradesh has been done by Kirby\r\n(1914), Hancock (1915), Chopard (1969),\r\nTandon et. al. (1976, 1995), Roonwal (1981),\r\nShishodia (1988,1991,1999,2006), Chandra\r\n(2003), Joshi et. al. (2004), Gupta (2008).\r\nRecently, Chandra et al. (2007) reported 139\r\nspecies of Orthoptera from Madhya Pradesh\r\nand Chhattisgarh, of which 94 species are\r\nfound in Madhya Pradesh.\r\nDuring the recent survey in 2009, total\r\n18 species pertaining to 18 genera under 6\r\nfamilies viz. Tettigoniidae (03), Gryllidae\r\n(01), Trigonidiidae (01), Acrididae (11),\r\nPyrgomorphidae (01) and Tridactylidae (01)\r\nwere collected from different localities of\r\nVeerangana Durgavati Wildlife Sanctuary by\r\nthe survey team of Zoological Survey of India,\r\nJabalpur.The systematic account, details of\r\nmaterial collected, and their geographic\r\ndistribution are also incorporated.\r\nSYSTEMATIC ACCOUNT\r\nOrder : Orthoptera\r\nSuborder : Ensifera\r\nSuperfamily : Tettigonioidea\r\nFamily : Tettigoniidae\r\nSubfamily : Phaneropterinae\r\nGenus : Letana Walker, 1869\r\nLetana intermedia Ingrisch, 1990\r\n1990. Letana intermedia Ingrisch, Ent. Scand.,\r\n21(3): 260.\r\n2005. Letana intermedia : Kulkarni and Shishodia,\r\nConservation Area Series 24 : Fauna\r\nof Melghat Tiger Reserve, Zool. Surv. India, :\r\n321.\r\nMaterial examined : Damoh, Veerangana\r\nDurgavati Wildlife Sanctuary (VDWLS); Dani\r\nTal, 20.i.09 (3♂), coll. J. Thilak.\r\nDistribution : India: Chhattisgarh, Madhya\r\nPradesh ( Damoh), Delhi and Maharashtra.\r\nGenus : Phaneroptera Serville, 1831\r\nPhaneroptera sp.\r\n1831. Phaneroptera Serville, Ann. Sci. nat., 22 :\r\n158.\r\nBiological Forum – An International Journal, 1(1): 69-74 (2009)\r\nKailash Chandra and Sunil Kumar Gupta 70\r\n1956. Phaneroptera : Ragge, Proc. zool. Soc.\r\nLond., 127 : 211.\r\n2000d. Phaneroptera, Shishodia, Rec. zool. Surv.\r\nIndia, 98(3) : 8.\r\nMaterial examined : Damoh, VDWLS , Dani\r\nTal, 01.ii.09 (2♂), coll. K. Chandra.\r\nDistribution : India : Arunachal Pradesh,\r\nAssam, Bihar, Chhattisgarh, Himachal\r\nPradesh, Madhya Pradesh (Chhindwara,\r\nDamoh and Seoni), Sikkim, Tamil Nadu, Uttar\r\nPradesh and West Bengal. Elsewhere: Africa,\r\nAustralia, China, Europe, Indo-China,\r\nMalaysia, Myanmar, Solomon Islands,\r\nSulawesi, Sumatra and Thailand.\r\nSubfamily : Conocephalinae\r\nGenus : Conocephalus Thunberg, 1815\r\nConocephalus maculatus (Le Guillou, 1841)\r\n1841. Xiphidion maculatum Le Guillou, Revue.\r\nsuissue Zool., 4 : 294.\r\n1922. Conocephalus (Xiphidion) maculatus (Le\r\nguillou), Proc. Acad. Nat. Sci. Philad.,\r\n74 : 243.\r\n1980. Conocephalus maculatus, Pitkin, Bull. Br.\r\nMus. nat. Hist. (Ent.), 41(5) : 344.\r\nMaterial examined : Damoh, VDWLS , Dani\r\nTal, 20.i.09 (1♀); Bhaisa ghat, 21..i.09 (3♂,\r\n1♀), coll. J. Thilak.\r\nDistribution: India: Andaman & Nicobar\r\nIslands, Arunachal Pradesh, Chhattisgarh,\r\nHimachal Pradesh, Jammu & Kashmir,\r\nKarnataka, Kerala, Madhya Pradesh\r\n(Chhindwara, Damoh and Seoni), Manipur,\r\nMizoram, Orissa, Sikkim, Tripura, Tamil\r\nNadu and West Bengal. Elsewhere : Africa,\r\nAustralia, Hong-Kong, Indonesia, Java, New\r\nGuinea, Nepal, Papua, Philippines, Singapore\r\nand Sulawesi.\r\nSuperfamily : Grylloidea\r\nFamily : Gryllidae\r\nSubfamily : Gryllinae\r\nGenus : Teleogryllus Chopard, 1961\r\nTeleogryllus mitratus (Burmeister, 1838)\r\n1838. Gryllus mitratus Burmeister, Handb. Ent., 2\r\n: 734.\r\n1964. Teleogryllus mitratus : Randell, Can. Ent.,\r\n96 (12) : 1596.\r\n1993. Teleogryllus mitratus, Vasanth, Rec. zool.\r\nSurv. India, Occ. Pap. No. 132 : 77.\r\nMaterial examined : Damoh, VDWLS , Dani\r\nTal, 20.i.09 (2♀),coll. J. Thilak.\r\nDistribution : India : Andaman & Nicobar\r\nIslands, Arunachal Pradesh, Assam, Bihar,\r\nChhattisgarh, Karnataka, Kerala, Madhya\r\nPradesh (Chhindwara, Damoh, Mandla, and\r\nSeoni), Manipur, Meghalaya, Orissa, Sikkim,\r\nTamil Nadu, Uttar Pradesh and West Bengal.\r\nElsewhere : Bhutan, Borneo, China,\r\nIndochina, Indonesia, Japan, Malaya\r\nArchipelago, Malaysia, Myanmar, Nepal,\r\nPinang, Philippines, Singapore, Sri Lanka,\r\nTenasserin, Thailand, Tibet and Vietnam.\r\nFamily : Trigonidiidae\r\nGenus : Trigonidium Rambur, 1839\r\nTrigonidium sp.\r\n1839. Trigonidium Rambur, Faune Andal., 2 :31.\r\n1968. Trigonidium, Chopard, Orth. Cat., 12 : 340.\r\n1969.Trigonidium, Chopard, Fauna of India, Orth.,\r\n2 Grylloidea, : 303.\r\nMaterial examined : Damoh, Veerangana\r\nDurgavati WLS; Dani Tal, 20.i.09 (1ex.), coll.\r\nJ. Thilak.\r\nDistribution : India : Andaman & Nicobar\r\nIslands, Arunachal Pradesh, Assam, Bihar,\r\nChandigarh, Chhattisgarh, Delhi, Goa,\r\nHimachal Pradesh, Jammu & Kashmir,\r\nKarnataka, Madhya Pradesh (Chhindwara,\r\nDamoh and Seoni), Manipur, Meghalaya,\r\nMizoram, Orissa, Tamil Nadu, Tripura and\r\nWest Bengal. Elsewhere: Africa, Australia,\r\nMyanmar, Madagascar, Malaysia, Nepal, New\r\nZealand, South Europe and Sri Lanka.\r\nSuborder : Caelifera\r\nSuperfamily : Acridoidea\r\nFamily : Acrididae\r\nSubfamily : Gomphocerinae\r\nGenus : Dnopherula Karsch, 1896\r\n71 Biological Forum – An International Journal, 1(1): 69-74 (2009)\r\nDnopherula (Aulacobothrus) sp.\r\n1896. Dnopherula Karsch, Ent. Zeit. Stettin.57:\r\n259.\r\n1902. Aulacobothrus Bolivar, Annls. Soc. ent.\r\nFr.,70 : 57.\r\n1971. Dnopherula (Aulacobothrus): Jago, Proc.\r\nAcad. Sci. nat. Philad., 123(8) : 245-246.\r\nMaterial examined : Damoh, VDWLS ,\r\nBhaisa ghat, 21.i.09 (1♀) coll. J. Thilak;\r\n01.ii.09 (1♂, 3♀), coll. K. Chandra.\r\nDistribution : India : Assam, Bihar,\r\nChhaittisgarh, Delhi, Haryana, Himachal\r\nPradesh, Jammu & Kashmir, Karnataka,\r\nMadhya Pradesh (Chhindwara, Damoh,\r\nMandla, Sahdol and Seoni), Maharashtra,\r\nMeghalaya, Orissa, Sikkim, Tamil Nadu, Uttar\r\nPradesh and West Bengal. Elsewhere :\r\nIndonesia, Nepal, Sri Lanka and South\r\nAmerica.\r\nSubfamily Acridinae\r\nGenus Acrida Linnaeus, 1758\r\nAcrida exaltata (Walker, 1859)\r\n1859. Truxalis exaltata Walker, Ann. Mag. nat.\r\nHist., 4 (3): 222.\r\n1914. Acrida exaltata, Kirby, Fauna Brit. India,\r\nOrth. : 99.\r\n1954. Acrida exaltata, Dirsh, Bull. Soc. Found.\r\nEnt., 38 : 149.\r\n2000. Acrida exaltata, Shishodia, Rec. zool. Surv.\r\nIndia, 98(1) : 46.\r\nMaterial examined : Damoh, VDWLS ; Dani\r\nTal, 20.i.09 (1♀),coll. J. Thilak.\r\nDistribution : India : Andhra Pradesh,\r\nArunachal Pradesh, Assam, Bihar,\r\nChhattisgarh, Delhi, Goa, Gujarat, Haryana,\r\nHimachal Pradesh, Jammu & Kashmir,\r\nKarnataka, Kerala, Madhya Pradesh\r\n(Chhindwara, Damoh, Mandla, Sahdol, Seoni\r\nand Sidhi), Maharashtra, Manipur, Meghalaya,\r\nOrissa, Punjab, Rajasthan, Sikkim, Tamil\r\nNadu, Tripura, Uttar Pradesh and West\r\nBengal. Elsewhere : Afghanistan, Bangladesh,\r\nIran, Nepal, Pakistan, Saudi Arabia, South\r\nEast China, South East Tibet, Sri Lanka,\r\nYemen and West Eden.\r\nSubfamily Oedipodinae\r\nGenus Aiolopus Fieber, 1853\r\nAiolopus thalassinus tamulus (Fabricius,\r\n1798)\r\n1798. Gryllus tamulus Fabricius, Ent. Sys. Suppl., :\r\n195.\r\n1838. Gomphocerus tricoloripes Burmeister,\r\nHandb. Ent., 2 : 649.\r\n1888. Epacromia rufostriatus Kirby, Proc. zool.\r\nSoc. Lond., : 550.\r\n1914. Aeolopus tamulus, Kirby, Fauna Brit. India,\r\nOrth.,:121.\r\n1968. Aiolopus thalasssinus tamulus : Hollis, Bull.\r\nBr. Mus. nat. Hist. (Ent.), 22(7): 347-350.\r\nMaterial examined : Damoh, VDWLS , Dani\r\nTal, 20.i.09 (1♂,1♀), coll. J. Thilak.\r\nDistribution : India : Andaman & Nicobar\r\nIslands, Bihar, Chhattisgarh, Delhi, Haryana,\r\nHimachal Pradesh, Karnataka, Madhya\r\nPradesh (Chhindwara, Damoh, Mandla, Rewa\r\nand Seoni), Maharashtra, Manipur,\r\nMeghalaya, Orissa, Punjab, Rajasthan,\r\nSikkim, Tamil Nadu, Tripura, Uttar Pradesh\r\nand West Bengal. Elsewhere : Australia,\r\nBangladesh, Borneo, Brunei, China, Hainan,\r\nHong Kong, Java, Lombok, Malaya,\r\nMyanmar, New Guinea, Pakistan, Philippines,\r\nPapua, Singapore, Sri Lanka, Sulawesi,\r\nSumatra, Taiwan, Timor and Thailand.\r\nGenus Gastrimargus Saussure, 1884\r\nGastrimargus africanus africanus (Saussure,\r\n1888)\r\n1888. Oedaleus (Gastrimargus) marmoratus var.\r\nafricanus Saussure, Mem. Soc. Phys. nat. Hist.\r\nGeneva, 30 (1) : 39.\r\n1910. Gastrimargus africanus : Kirby, Syn. Cat.\r\nOrth., 3 : 227.\r\n1928. Gastrimargus africanus var. zebrata\r\nSjostedt, Svenska Akad. Handl., 6 (3) No. 1 : 41.\r\n1982. Gastrimargus africanus africanus, Ritchie,\r\nBull. Br. Mus. nat. Hist. (Ent.), 44 (4): 248.\r\nMaterial examined : Damoh, VDWLS, Bhaisa\r\nghat, 21.i.09 (1♂,3♀), coll. J. Thilak.\r\nDistribution : India : Andhra Pradesh,\r\nArunachal Pradesh, Assam, Bihar,\r\nKailash Chandra and Sunil Kumar Gupta 72\r\nChhattisgarh, Delhi, Goa, Himachal Pradesh,\r\nJammu & Kashmir, Madhya Pradesh\r\n(Chhindwara, Damoh, Mandla, Rewa, Sahdol\r\nand Seoni), Maharashtra, Orissa, Rajasthan,\r\nSikkim, Tamil Nadu, Uttar Pradesh and West\r\nBengal. Elsewhere: Africa, Myanmar, Nepal,\r\nPakistan, Saudi Arabia, Sri Lanka, Thailand,\r\nTibet and Yemen.\r\nSubfamily Hemiacridinae\r\nGenus Spathosternum Krauss, 1877\r\nSpathosternum prasiniferum prasiniferum\r\n(Walker, 1871)\r\n1871. Heteracris prasinifera Walker, Cat. Derm.\r\nSalt. Brit. Mus., 5 : 65.\r\n1914. Spathosternum prasiniferum : Kirby, Fauna\r\nBrit. India, Orth., : 208.\r\n1936. Spathosternum prasiniferum prasiniferum :\r\nTinkham, Lingn, Sci. J., 15 : 51.\r\nMaterial examined : Damoh, VDWLS ; Dani\r\nTal, 20.i.09 (2♂) coll. J. Thilak.\r\nDistribution : India: Andaman & Nicobar\r\nIslands, Andhra Pradesh, Arunachal Pradesh,\r\nBihar, Chhattisgarh, Goa, Himachal Pradesh,\r\nJammu & Kashmir, Karnataka, Kerala,\r\nMadhya Pradesh (Chhindwara, Damoh,\r\nMandla, Rewa, Sahdol, Seoni and Sidhi),\r\nMaharashtra, Meghalaya, Orissa, Punjab,\r\nRajasthan, Tamil Nadu, Tripura, Uttar Pradesh\r\nand West Bengal. Elsewhere: Bangladesh,\r\nChina, Hainan, Myanmar, Nepal, Sri Lanka,\r\nThailand, Vietnam and West Malaysia.\r\nSubfamily Coptacridinae\r\nGenus Eucoptacra Bolivar, 1902\r\nEucoptacra saturata (Walker, 1870)\r\n1870. Acridium saturatum Walker, Cat. Derm.\r\nSalt. Brit. Mus., 4 : 628.\r\n1921b. Eucoptacra saturata : Uvarov, Ann. Mag.\r\nnat. Hist., 7 (9) : 503.\r\n1976. Eucoptacra saturata, Tandon, Rec. zool.\r\nSurv. India, Occ. Pap. No. 3 : 10.\r\nMaterial examined : Damoh, VDWLS, Bhaisa\r\nghat, 01.ii.09 (3♀), coll. K. Chandra.\r\nDistribution : India : Assam, Chhattisgarh,\r\nHimachal Pradesh, Maharashtra, Madhya\r\nPradesh (Chhindwara, Damoh and Seoni),\r\nManipur, Meghalaya, Orissa, Sikkim, Tamil\r\nNadu, Tripura, Uttar Pradesh and West\r\nBengal.\r\nSubfamily Cyrtacanthacridinae\r\nGenus Pachyacris Uvarov, 1923\r\nPachyacris vinosa (Walker, 1870)\r\n1870. Acridium vinosum Walker, Cat. Derm. Salt,\r\nBrit. Mus., 3 : 588.\r\n1914. Orthacanthacris vinosa, Kirby, Fauna Brit.\r\nIndia, Orth., : 228.\r\n1923. Pachyacris vinosa : Uvarov, Ann. Mag. nat.\r\nHist., 11(9) : 478.\r\nMaterial examined : Damoh, VDWLS,\r\nBhaisa ghat, 01.i.09 (1♂,2♀), coll. K.\r\nChandra.\r\nDistribution : India : Assam, Bihar,\r\nChhattisgarh, Goa, Himachal Pradesgh,\r\nKarnataka, Madhya Pradesh (Damoh,\r\nHoshangabad and Panna), Maharashtra,\r\nManipur, Meghalaya, Mizoram, Orissa,\r\nTripura, Uttar Pradesh and West Bengal.\r\nElsewhere : China, Myanmar, Nepal, Thailand\r\nand Tongking.\r\nGenus Cyrtacanthacris Walker, 1870\r\nCyrtacanthacris tatarica (Linnaeus, 1758)\r\n1758. Gryllus locusta tataricus Linnaeus, Syst. Nat.\r\n(10th ed.). : 432.\r\n1923. Cyrtacanthacris tatarica : Uvarov, Bull. Ent.\r\nRes., 14 : 39.\r\n1976. Cyrtacanthacris tatarica, Tandon, Rec. zool.\r\nSurv. India, Occ. Pap. No. 3 : 21.\r\nMaterial examined : Damoh, VDWLS, Bhaisa\r\nghat, 01.i.09 (1♀), coll. K. Chandra.\r\nDistribution : India : Andhra Pradesh,\r\nArunachal Pradesh, Assam, Bihar,\r\nChhattisgarh, Delhi, Himachal Pradesh,\r\nHaryana, Jammu & Kashmir, Karnataka,\r\nKerala, Madhya Pradesh (Chhindwara,\r\nDamos, Mandla and Seoni), Orissa,\r\nRajasthan, Uttar Pradesh and West Bengal.\r\nElsewhere: Africa, Bangladesh, Hainan,\r\nMadagascar, Myanmar, Nepal, Philippines,\r\n73 Biological Forum – An International Journal, 1(1): 69-74 (2009)\r\nPakistan, Red-Sea, Sahara, Saudi Arabia,\r\nSeychelles, Sri Lanka, Sumatra and Thailand.\r\nSubfamily Eyprepocnemidinae\r\nGenus Tylotropidius Stål, 1873\r\nTylotropidius varicornis (Walker, 1870)\r\n1870. Heteracris varicornis Walker, Cat. Derm.\r\nSalt. Brit. Mus., 4 : 667.\r\n1914. Tylotropidius varicornis : Kirby, Fauna\r\nBrit. India, Orth., : 265.\r\n1976. Tylotropidius varicornis, Tandon, Rec. zool.\r\nSurv. India, Occ. Pap. No. 3 : 14.\r\nMaterial examined :Damoh, VDWLS , Bhaisa\r\nghat, 01.i.09 (2♂,3♀), coll. K. Chandra.\r\nDistribution : India : Andhra Pradesh,\r\nChhattisgarh, Goa, Haryana, Himachal\r\nPradesh, Karnataka, Madhya Pradesh (Damoh\r\nand Panna), Maharashtra, Meghalaya, Orissa,\r\nRajasthan, Tamil Nadu, Madhya Pradesh,\r\nUttar Pradesh and West Bengal. Elsewhere:\r\nMyanmar and Sri Lanka.\r\nSubfamily Catantopinae\r\nGenus Xenocatantops Dirsh, 1953\r\nXenocatantops humilis humilis (Serville,\r\n1839)\r\n1839. Acridium humile Serville Ins, Orth., : 662.\r\n1953. Xenocatantops humilis humilis : Dirsh and\r\nUvarov, Tijdschr. Ent., 96 : 237.\r\n2000. Xenocatantops humilis humilis, Shishodia,\r\nRec. zool. Surv. India, 98(1) : 62.\r\nMaterial examined : Damoh, VDWLS, Bhaisa\r\nghat, 01.i.09 (3♂) coll. K. Chandra.\r\nDistribution : India : Andaman and Nicobar\r\nIslands, Arunachal Pradesh, Assam, Bihar,\r\nChhattisgarh, Himachal Pradesh, Kerala,\r\nMadhya Pradesh (Chhindwara, Damoh and\r\nSeoni), Maharashtra, Manipur, Meghalaya,\r\nMizoram, Tamil Nadu, Uttar Pradesh and\r\nWest Bengal. Elsewhere : Bangladesh,\r\nBorneo, Indo-China, Java, Malaya, Myanmar,\r\nNew Guinea, Philippines, Sri Lanka, Sumatra,\r\nSouth Tibet, Thailand, Vietnam and Yunnan.\r\nGenus Catantops Schaum, 1853\r\nCatantops pinguis innotabilis (Walker, 1870)\r\n1870. Acridium innotabile Walker, Cat Derm Salt.\r\nBrit. Mus., 4: 629.\r\n1902. Catantops indicus I. Bolivar, Ann. Soc. ent.\r\nFrance, 70 : 626.\r\n1925. Catantops innotabilis Uvarov, Orth. Acrid.,\r\n:30.\r\n1956. Catantops pinguis innotabilis : Dirsh, Comp.\r\nDiam. Angola. Publ. Cult., 28 : 105.\r\nMaterial examined : Damoh, VDWLS, Dani\r\nTal, 20.i.09 (1♂); Bhaisa ghat, 21.i.09 (2♀)\r\ncoll. J. Thilak; 01.i.09 (1♂,2♀), coll. K.\r\nChandra.\r\nDistribution : India: Assam, Andhra Pradesh,\r\nArunachal Pradesh, Bihar, Chhattisgarh,\r\nDelhi, Goa, Himachal Pradesh, Jammu &\r\nKashmir, Kerala, Madhya Pradesh\r\n(Chhindwara, Damoh, Seoni and Sidhi),\r\nMaharashtra, Meghalaya, Orissa, Sikkim,\r\nTamil Nadu, Uttar Pradesh and West Bangal.\r\nElsewhere : Afganistan, Bangladesh, Borneo,\r\nHong-Kong, Indo-China, Java, Japan,\r\nKambodia, Korea, Malaysia, Malaya, Maldive\r\nIslands, Myanmar, New Guinea, Pakistan,\r\nPhilippines, Sri Lanka, Sumatra, South Tibet,\r\nThailand and Yunnan.\r\nFamily Pyrgomorphidae\r\nGenus Atractomorpha Saussure, 1861\r\nAtractomorpha crenulata (Fabricius, 1793)\r\n1793. Truxalis crenulata Fabricius, Ent. Syst., 2 :\r\n28.\r\n1861. Atractomorpha crenulata : Saussure, Annls.\r\nSoc. ent. Fr., 4 : 475.\r\nMaterial examined : Damoh, VDWLS, Bhaisa\r\nghat, 01.i.09 (1♀) coll. K. Chandra.\r\nDistribution : India : Andaman & Nicobar\r\nIslands, Andhra Pradesh, Bihar, Chhattisgarh,\r\nGoa, Jammu & Kashmir, Madhya Pradesh\r\n(Chhindwara, Damoh, Mandla, Rewa, Sahdol,\r\nSeoni and Sidhi), Rajasthan, Tamil Nadu and\r\nWest Bengal. Elsewhere: Bangladesh, Lower\r\nMyanmar, Malaysia, Sri Lanka, South\r\nVietnam and Thailand.\r\nKailash Chandra and Sunil Kumar Gupta 74\r\nSuperfamily Tridactyloidea\r\nFamily Tridactylidae\r\nGenus Tridactylus Olivier, 1789\r\nTridactylus thoracicus Guer, 1844\r\n1844. Tridactylus thoracicus Guer, Icon. R. An., 3 :\r\n336.\r\n1925. Tridactylus thoracicus : Chopard, Ann. Mag.\r\nnat. Hist., 15(9) : 506.\r\n1987. Tridactylus thoracicus, Shishodia & Tandon,\r\nState Fauna Series 1: Fauna of Orissa, Zool. Surv.\r\nIndia, (1) : 128.\r\nMaterial examined : Damoh, VDWLS, Dani\r\nTAl, 20.i.09 (1♀),coll. J. Thilak.\r\nDistribution : India : Bihar, Chhattisgarh,\r\nGoa, Himachal Pradesh, Madhya Pradesh\r\n(Damoh and Seoni), Orissa and West Bengal.\r\nElsewhere: Java, Myanmar, Malay\r\nArchipelago, Nepal, Sri Lanka and Sumatra.','Kailash Chandra and Sunil Kumar Gupta (2009). On a collection of Orthoptera fauna from Veerangana Durgavati Wildlife Sanctuary, Madhya Pradesh, India. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 1(1): 69-74.'),(4647,'131','Cephalic chaetotaxy of the last instar larva of a crambid: Antigastra\r\ncatalaunalis (Duponchel) (Lepidoptera)','Deepinderpal Singh and H.S. Rose','13 Deepinderpal.pdf','',1,'The immature stages such as egg, larvae and pupae has been collected from the field in the months of\r\nJune to August during the year 2005-06. The collected larvae after reaching maturity dissected and\r\nslides were made in the laboratory in order to study chaetotaxy of the head as per techniques\r\ndescribed in detail below. Presently, the arrangement of various groups of setae, number of setae and\r\npunctures, length of setae present on the larval head of a pyralid i.e. Antigastra catalaunalis\r\n(Duponchel) has been discussed and described along with its chaetotaxic maps showing frontal and\r\nlateral views.','Chaetotaxy, group, puncture, setae','The immature stages such as egg, larvae and pupae has been collected from the field in the months of\r\nJune to August during the year 2005-06. The collected larvae after reaching maturity dissected and\r\nslides were made in the laboratory in order to study chaetotaxy of the head as per techniques\r\ndescribed in detail below. Presently, the arrangement of various groups of setae, number of setae and\r\npunctures, length of setae present on the larval head of a pyralid i.e. Antigastra catalaunalis\r\n(Duponchel) has been discussed and described along with its chaetotaxic maps showing frontal and\r\nlateral views.','The larval identification and diagnosis can\r\nbest be strengthened through an examination\r\nof the arrangement of various setae and\r\npunctures of the head and other body segments\r\n.Much related work on chaetotaxy of pyralid\r\ncaterpillars has been recorded by workers\r\nMathur (1954 and 1959), Singh (1956),\r\nMathur and Singh (1963), Azam and Ali\r\n(1965), Franzmann and Garrett (1978),\r\nYoshiyasu (1980), Stehr (1987), Lin (1993),\r\nAmutha and David (1998). In the light of\r\nabove and by keeping in mind the scarcity of\r\nwork on chaetotaxy in general and in\r\nsubfamily pyraustinae of family Crambidae in\r\nparticular, an attempt has been made to\r\ndescribe the cephalic chaetotaxy of Antigastra\r\ncatalaunalis (Duponchel).\r\nMATERIAL AND METHODS\r\nThe mature larvae of Antigastra catalaunalis\r\n(Duponchel) collected from the field and\r\nreared in laboratory up to prepupal stage and\r\nthen boiled in water for killing and distention\r\nof the body. Then head detached with a fine\r\nsharp blade and potashed for 8-10 hrs in KOH.\r\nThe material then washed with1% glacial\r\nacetic acid so as to remove the traces of KOH\r\nand then transferred to 70% alcohol and\r\nglycerine in the ratio of 9:1. The larval head\r\nthen placed in the cavity slide containing\r\nglycerine and then studied the arrangement of\r\nsetae with the help of stereoscopic\r\nmicroscope. The nomenclature proposed by\r\nHinton (1946) has been followed for naming\r\ndifferent setae and punctures.\r\nRESULTS AND DISCUSSION\r\nCranium is weakly sclerotized and somewhat\r\ntransparent. Light brown coloured sclerotized\r\npatches present on the sides of the head.\r\nMedian epicranial suture is half the length of\r\nlateral adfrontal suture. Stemmatal area is well\r\ndifferentiated from rest of cranium, beset with\r\nsix stemmata, fifth stemmata placed at base of\r\nantenna; each half of head represents 17 tactile\r\nsetae, 4 proprioceptor and 10 pores.\r\nThe clypeus comprises two setae C1 and\r\nC2 but there is no puncture on it. C1 close to\r\nepicondyle and shorter than C2. The presence\r\nof both the setae has also been inferred by\r\nHinton (1946), Mathur (1954 & 1959), Mathur\r\nand Singh (1963), Farooqui and Singh (1973),\r\nAllyson (1980 & 1981), Goel and Kumar\r\n(1981), Stehr (1987), Amutha and David\r\n(1998), Yen, et.al. (2004) and Solis, et.al.\r\n(2005). Frontal group beset with seta F1 and\r\nBiological Forum – An International Journal, 1(1): 81-84 (2009)\r\nDeepinderpal Singh and H.S. Rose 82\r\npore Fa. The similar condition has also been\r\nnoticed by workers like Azam and Ali (1965),\r\nAllyson (1980 & 1981), Goel and Kumar\r\n(1981), Stehr (1987), Amutha and David\r\n(1998), Yen, et.al. (2004) and Solis, et.al.\r\n(2005). F1 closer to lateral margin of frons,\r\ndirectly postrad to C1; puncture Fa lies near\r\nmedian longitudinal line of the head capsule,\r\npresent anterodorsad to F1.\r\nThe adfrontal area which is inverted ‘v’\r\nshaped has a distinct group of two adfrontal\r\nsetae AF1 and AF2 along with pore AFa.\r\nSimilar condition found by Hinton (1946),\r\nAzam and Ali (1965), Franzman and Garrett\r\n(1978), Yoshiyasu (1980), Diaknoff and Arita\r\n(1981), Goel and Kumar (1981), Amutha and\r\nDavid (1998), Yen, et.al. (2004) and Solis,\r\net.al. (2005). AF2 nearly half the length of\r\nAF1, situated posterad to point where lateral\r\nadfrontals join median epicranial suture, AF1\r\nposterolaterad to F1, close to lateral adfrontal\r\nsuture; pore AFa close and anterad to AF2.\r\nWorkers like Farooqui and Singh (1973),\r\nValley and Wheeler (1976) and Downy and\r\nAllyn (1979) observed that this puncture is\r\nwanting in the species Clania crameri West.,\r\nStomopteryx palpilineella (Chambers) and\r\nLeptotes cassius theonus Lucas, respectively.\r\nAnterior group contains setae A1, A2, A3\r\nand pore Aa; A1 lies anterior to P1 and present\r\ntowards median longitudinal line; A2\r\nposterolaterad to A1, A3 posterolaterad to A2;\r\nA1>A3>A2 lengthwise; pore Aa lies close to\r\nA2 than A3. The presence of this anterodorsal\r\ngroup has been observed by many workers in\r\ndifferent lepidopteran families, whereas, Yen,\r\net. al. (2004) observed the missing of puncture\r\nAa in a new genus Austromusotima of family\r\ncrambidae. Posteriodorsal area represented by\r\nsetae P1 and P2 alongwith pore Pb; P1 much\r\nlonger than P2; P2 posterolaterad to P1; pore\r\nPb anterad to P2. Two different arrangements\r\nof these two setae and one puncture has been\r\nnoticed by Yoshiyasu (1980), Diakonoff and\r\nArita (1980), Amutha and David (1998) and\r\nYen, et. al. (2004). Seta L1 and pore La\r\nexhibits lateral group; L1 directly dorsad to\r\nstemmata 1, pore La posteromesad to L1. The\r\noccurrence of this seta and puncture has also\r\nbeen recoqnised by Lawrence and Downy\r\n(1966), Downy and Allyn (1979), Lin (1993),\r\nAmutha and David (1998) and Solis, et. al.\r\n(2005), whereas, Yen, et al. (2004) noticed the\r\nabsence of puncture La in a new genus\r\nAustromusotima of family Crambidae. Genal\r\ngroup contains pore MGa; MG1 seems to be\r\nabsent.\r\nThe stemmatal area is characterized by\r\nthe presence of three setae S1, S2 and S3\r\nbesides pore Sa and Sb. Mathur (1954 and\r\n1959), Mathur and Singh (1963) have found\r\nthat puncture Sb is wanting in many pyralid\r\nspecies. S1 situated inside semicircle, close\r\nbut ventrocaudad to stemmata 2. S2 caudad to\r\nstemmata 1, present at mouth of stemmatal\r\narc, S3 posterad to stemmata 6; S2>S3>S1\r\nlengthwise. Pore Sa situated dorsad to\r\nstemmata 6. Pore Sb lies very close and\r\nanterad to stemmata 4, whereas, Hinton (1946)\r\nnoticed the presence of puncture between\r\nstammata third and fourth. Substemmatal area\r\nalso beset with three setae SS1, SS2 and SS3\r\nand pore SSa. SS1 lies directly below\r\nstemmata 5. SS2 lies dorsocaudad to SS2. SS3\r\ndorsocaudad to SS2. SS2>SS3>SS1\r\nlengthwise. Dorsal epicranial area comprises\r\nproprioceptor setae MD1, MD2, MD3 and\r\npore MDa MD1 anterodorsad to MD2. MD3\r\nposterolatrad to MD1. Pore MDa present\r\ncloser to MD2 than MD3.','Deepinderpal Singh and H.S. Rose (2009). Cephalic chaetotaxy of the last instar larva of a crambid: Antigastra catalaunalis (Duponchel) (Lepidoptera). Biological Forum – An International Journal, 1(1): 81-84.'),(4648,'131','Collection and distribution frequency of plant parasitic nematodes\r\nassociated with sugarcane in Uttar Pradesh - A field study','Rajesh Prakash, D.K. Singh and Manish Kumar','14.pdf','',1,'A survey was conducted to determine the types, frequency and population of plant parasitic\r\nnematodes associated with the soils and roots of sugarcane in areas of U.P. (e.g. Agra, Etah and\r\nMathura) using random sampling for soil and root and using pie pan modification of Baerman\r\nfunnel for plant parasitic nematode extraction. Plant-parasitic nematodes recovered included\r\nMeloidogyne spp., Pratylenchus spp., Radopholus spp., Trichodorus spp., Rotylenchus spp., and\r\nRotylenchulus spp. Five genera of plant parasitic nematodes were encountered in Agra; while six\r\ngenera in Etah and Mathura of U.P. respectively.','Sugarcane, population of plant parasitic nematodes','A survey was conducted to determine the types, frequency and population of plant parasitic\r\nnematodes associated with the soils and roots of sugarcane in areas of U.P. (e.g. Agra, Etah and\r\nMathura) using random sampling for soil and root and using pie pan modification of Baerman\r\nfunnel for plant parasitic nematode extraction. Plant-parasitic nematodes recovered included\r\nMeloidogyne spp., Pratylenchus spp., Radopholus spp., Trichodorus spp., Rotylenchus spp., and\r\nRotylenchulus spp. Five genera of plant parasitic nematodes were encountered in Agra; while six\r\ngenera in Etah and Mathura of U.P. respectively.','In India nematodes are reported to cause about\r\n10-40 %yield loss in sugarcane. However,\r\nlosses may become still higher if nematodes\r\nare associated with other biotic and abiotic\r\nstresses in the field. Plant-parasitic nematodes\r\nare soil inhabiting, microscopic roundworms\r\nthat feed on plant roots. Nematode feeding\r\ndisturbs the water and nutrient absorption\r\nmachinery in the root system, which in turn\r\nresults in stunted growth, chlorosis and wilting\r\nof plants even in the presence of optimum\r\nmoisture and nutrients in the soil. Being\r\nobligate parasites, nematodes do not kill their\r\nhosts instantly, but debilitate the host\r\ngradually without producing any specific\r\nabove-ground symptoms. Therefore,\r\nnematodes are often referred as \'hidden\r\nenemies of the farmers\' (SBI, 2004). It should\r\nbe noted that in the field it is common for\r\nmultiple nematode genera to cause damage in\r\nthe same field. Therefore, a mixture of root\r\nsymptoms may occur together on the same\r\nplants. Plant-parasitic nematodes damage is\r\nan important factor in tuber quality reduction\r\nand yield loss in sugarcane in the field and in\r\nstorage (Spaull and Cadet, 1990). However,\r\nplant parasitic nematodes associated with\r\nsugarcane in U.P., particularly in Agra, Etah\r\nand Mathura regions investigated. This survey\r\nwas conducted to update available information\r\non nematodes of sugarcane in U.P. region and\r\ndetermine the types, population levels and\r\nfrequency of occurrence of plant parasitic\r\nnematodes associated with sugarcane in the\r\nthree districts.\r\nMATERIALS AND METHOD\r\nThe survey was carried out of Local areas of\r\nU.P. (e.g. Agra, Etah and Mathura) between\r\nJanuary and June 2008. In each of the Local\r\nAreas, agricultural field in three towns were\r\nrandomly selected for sampling making a total\r\nof 60, 60 and 60 fields sampled in Agra, Etah\r\nand Mathura districts respectively. 10 plants\r\nwere randomly selected for sampling. Soil\r\nsamples were collected to a depth of 15-30cm\r\nwith garden trowels. Samples (soil and root)\r\nfrom each farm were pooled and sealed in\r\nplastic bags and protected from the sun (Ricka\r\nand Barker, 1992). The samples were properly\r\nlabeled and taken to Parasitology Laboratory\r\nof Gov. P. G. College, Etah for analysis and\r\nfor identification of plant parasitic nematodes.\r\nPlant parasitic nematodes were extracted from\r\nthe soil using the pie-pan modification of the\r\nBaerman Funnel method (Southey, 1986).\r\nEach composite soil samples was mixed\r\nBiological Forum – An International Journal, 1(1): 85-88 (2009)\r\nRajesh Prakash et al. 86\r\nthoroughly and plant parasitic nematodes were\r\nextracted from 200ml sub-sample. The set up\r\nwas left undisturbed for 24 h before decanting\r\nthe suspension into a beaker. Ten extraction\r\ntrays were set up per sample. Plant parasitic\r\nnematodes in each suspension were killed by\r\nadding an equal volume of hot water to the\r\nnematodes suspension and each sample was\r\nthen adjusted to a desired volume. The\r\nsuspension was thoroughly mixed using a\r\nmagnetic stirrer and 5ml aliquot was drawn\r\nfrom each suspension into a Doncaster\r\ncounting dish for identification and\r\nquantification of the extracted nematodes.\r\nTemporary mounts of nematodes were\r\nprepared prior to nematode identification.\r\nIdentification of plant parasitic nematodes to\r\nthe generic level was done using the Lucidkey\r\nof Bell (2004). Percentage frequency was\r\ndetermined using the formula n/N x 100.\r\nWhere n = the number of times an individual\r\nnematode occurred in all the samples and N is\r\nthe sample size (60 for each Agra, Etah and\r\nMathura districts).\r\nRESULTS AND DISCUSSION\r\nFive genera of plant parasitic nematodes were\r\nencountered in soil and root samples collected\r\nfrom Agra regions of U.P. State respectively.\r\nIn the soil, plant parasitic nematodes identified\r\nwere Pratylenchus spp., Meloidogyne spp.,\r\nRotylenchus spp., Trichodorus spp.,\r\nRotylenchulus spp. Rotylenchulus species was\r\nthe most frequently occurring species in the\r\nsoil (75%) where the population was\r\n15500/200 ml soil which was followed by\r\nMeloidogyne species with 58.3% frequency\r\nrating and a population of 11542/200 ml soil\r\nwhile Pratylenchus species had frequency\r\nrating of 41.6% and a population of 6650/200\r\nml soil; while Rotylenchus species had the\r\nlowest population of 1750/ 200 ml soil (Table\r\n1). In the root sample similar trends were\r\nobserved in which Rotylenchulus spp was the\r\nmost frequently encountered species (70%)\r\nand a population of 8500/10g root, followed\r\nby Meloidogyne species with 56.6%\r\nfrequency ratings and a population of\r\n7300/10g root respectively (Table 2). Six\r\ngenera of plant parasitic nematodes were\r\nencountered in soil and root samples collected\r\nfrom Etah region of U.P. State respectively. In\r\nthe soil, plant parasitic nematodes identified\r\nwere Meloidogyne spp., Pratylenchus spp.,\r\nTrichodorus spp., Radopholus spp.,\r\nRotylenchulus spp and Rotylenchus spp.\r\nMeloidogyne spp was the most frequently\r\noccurring species in the soil (63.3%) where\r\nthe population was 17655/200 ml soil which\r\nwas followed by Pratylenchus spp with 58.3%\r\nfrequency rating and a population of\r\n13887/200 ml soil; while the third frequently\r\noccurring species was Rotylenchulus with\r\nfrequency rating of 50% and a population of\r\n8345/200 ml soil. Radopholus spp had the\r\nlowest population of 2320/200 ml soil (Table\r\n3). In the root, similar trends were observed in\r\nwhich Meloidogyne spp was the most\r\nfrequently encountered species (66.6%) and a\r\npopulation of 13000/10 g root, followed by\r\nPratylenchus and Rotylenchus species with\r\nfrequency ratings of 56.6 and 50.6%\r\nrespectively (Table 4).\r\nSix genera of plant parasitic nematodes\r\nwere encountered in soil and root samples\r\ncollected from Mathura of U.P. State\r\nrespectively. In the soil, plant parasitic\r\nnematodes identified were Rotylenchulus spp.,\r\nMeloidogyne spp., Pratylenchus spp.,\r\nTrichodorus spp., Radopholus spp., and\r\nRotylenchus spp. Rotylenchulus spp was the\r\nmost frequently occurring species in the soil\r\n(71.6%) with a population of 16500/ 200 ml\r\nsoil which was followed Meloidogyne spp.\r\nwith 63.3% frequency rating and a population\r\nof 17555/200 ml soil while the third\r\nfrequently occurring species was Pratylenchus\r\nspp with frequency rating of 50% and a\r\npopulation of 11835/200 ml soil.\r\nTrichodorous spp and Radopholus spp had the\r\nlowest frequency rating of 16.3% and 13.3%\r\nwith populations of 2480/200 ml soil and\r\n1234/200 ml soil respectively (Table 5). In the\r\nroot, similar trends were observed in which\r\nRotylenchulus spp was the most frequently\r\nencountered species (68.3%) and a population\r\nof 8507/10 g root, followed by Meloidogyne\r\nspp and Pratylenchus spp with frequency\r\nratings of 56.6 and 50.6% respectively (Table\r\n6).\r\n87 Biological Forum – An International Journal, 1(1): 85-88 (2009)\r\nThe intensification of agriculture has led\r\nto continuous change and lack of stability in\r\nthe ecosystem, making conditions favorable\r\nfor certain species of plant parasitic\r\nnematodes while exerting immense selection\r\npressure upon others (Wallace, 1971; Tiyagi et\r\nal., 1987). The sustainability of these\r\nintensified sugarcane based systems is\r\nthreatened by build up of soil borne\r\nconstraints, particularly plant parasitic\r\nnematodes. Plant parasitic nematodes have\r\nbeen reported to constitute serious\r\nimpediments to sugarcane production in\r\nvarious parts of the world (Anwar et al, 1986).\r\nIn the present investigation, Meloidogyne spp.\r\n(root-knot nematode), Pratylenchus spp.\r\n(lesion nematodes), and Rotylenchulus spp.\r\n(reniform nematode) were the most frequently\r\noccurring species in the soil and root sample.\r\nOf these, lesion nematode Pratylenchus spp.,\r\nis the most predominant and economically\r\nimportant genus. This nematode is widely\r\nprevalent in both subtropical and tropical\r\nregions and reduces yield and quality of cane\r\nin both light and heavy soil types. Root-knot\r\nnematodes Meloidogyne spp. is a problem\r\nmainly in light sandy loam and sandy soils.\r\nThe reniform nematode, Rotylenchulus spp.,\r\nnematode causes root rotting and reduced\r\nuptake of water and soil nutrients. The\r\nsymptoms are general lack of vigor,\r\ndiscoloration of foliage, and (or) stunted\r\nplants (Hall and Irey, 1992). Plant-parasitic\r\nnematodes damage is an important factor in\r\ntuber quality reduction and yield loss in\r\nsugarcanes both in the field and in storage.\r\nSugarcanes are vulnerable to nematode\r\ndamage as they reduce the yield and quality of\r\nthe tubers as a result of root gallings, root\r\nlesions, dry and soft rots depending on the\r\ntype of plant parasitic nematodes present. The\r\npresence of plant parasitic nematodes could\r\nconstitute serious impediments to the growth\r\nand yield of sugarcanes in Agra, Etah and\r\nMathura regions of U.P. States.\r\nHowever, the presence of nematode\r\npopulation density beyond the threshold level\r\nwarrants initiation of immediate corrective\r\nmeasures. Ideally, such alternative approaches\r\nshould not only be effective in suppressing\r\nnematode population but also offer other\r\nagronomic benefits about which farmers are\r\nalready convinced. Otherwise, it would be\r\ndifficult to get these approaches adopted by\r\nthe farmers.','Rajesh Prakash, D.K. Singh and Manish Kumar (2009). Collection and distribution frequency of plant parasitic nematodes associated with sugarcane in Uttar Pradesh - A field study. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 1(1): 85-88.'),(4649,'131','Taxonomic studies on vegetable pests of Family Pieridae (Lepidoptera)\r\nform North India','Rajesh Kumar, Gaurav Sharma1, Neeraj Kumar2 and V.V. Ramamurthy','15 Rajesh.pdf','',1,'The Pieris brassicae, P. canidia and P. rapae treated taxonomically and redescribed for proper\r\nidentification. These species recorded as major pests of cabbage and cauliflower from North India.','Taxonomy, Lepidoptera, Pieridae, P. brassicae, P. rapae, P. canidia, genitalia','The Pieris brassicae, P. canidia and P. rapae treated taxonomically and redescribed for proper\r\nidentification. These species recorded as major pests of cabbage and cauliflower from North India.','The Pierid butterflies belonging to the family\r\nPieridae, are white and yellow in color and\r\nworldwide in distribution. These species are\r\ndistinguished from other butterflies by their\r\nwhite and yellow color with distinct spots\r\nunderside and upperside of wings. P.\r\nbrassicae, P. canidia and P. rapae recorded as\r\nmajor pests of cabbage and cauliflower (Nair,\r\n1970; Butani and Jotwani, 1984; Gupta, 1990;\r\nBhatia and Verma, 1994; Bhatia and Verma,\r\n1995; Bhatia and Gupta, 2003; Pandey et al.,\r\n2006; Badenes-Perez and Shelton, 2006;\r\nKumar et al., 2007; Sharma et al., 2008).\r\nDuring the course of present studies, authors\r\nexamined more than 100 specimens (males\r\nand females) collected from North India and\r\ndeposited in National Pusa Collection,\r\nDivision of Entomology, IARI, New Delhi.\r\nBesides re-examination of the wing venation,\r\ndetailed structure of the male and female\r\ngenitalia has been furnished to improve the\r\ndiagnostic features of species. By and large,\r\nthe previous work suffers from a serious\r\ndrawback due to improper identification. The\r\nmanuscript explain and illustrate the\r\ndiagnostic features of species, which is useful\r\nfor correct identification, wherever it found.\r\nMATERIALS AND METHODS\r\nThe specimens were collected from North\r\nIndia during from 2006 to 2007. The collected\r\nspecimens were examined taxonomically and\r\nstudied for diagnostic characters including\r\ngenitalia. For genitalic study, abdomens were\r\nplaced in 10% aqueous KOH and heated for\r\n20 min at 90°C using a Dry Block Heizgerät–\r\n28000, then placed for 5 min in glacial acetic\r\nacid to remove the debris. The genitalia were\r\nsubsequently stored in 70% ethanol. For\r\ntaking photographs, the genitalia were placed\r\non a slide in glycerol and covered with a cover\r\nslip. Photographs of antennae, lateral view of\r\nthe mouthparts, scales and genitalia were\r\ncaptured using Leica Application Suit ver.\r\n2.8.2 software and a Leica DFC-290 camera\r\nattached to a Leica MZ16A stereozoom\r\nmicroscope. Morphological character\r\nterminology follows Hampson (1892) and\r\nvenation nomenclature follows the Comstock-\r\nNeedham system (Common, 1970). For\r\nexternal genitalia, the terminology follows\r\nKlots (1970) and Winter (2000). All line\r\ndiagrams were made using a drawing tube\r\nattached to a Nikon SMZ10 stereoscopic zoom\r\nmicroscope and the plates prepared in Adobe\r\nPhotoshop Element 2.0. Specimens in the field\r\nwere photographed using a Sony DSC R1 10.3\r\nmegapixel digital camera. The specimens have\r\nbeen deposited in the National Pusa Collection\r\n(NPC), Division of Entomology, Indian\r\nAgricultural Research Institute, New Delhi,\r\nIndia.\r\nTAXONOMIC ACCOUNT\r\nOrder : Lepidoptera\r\nBiological Forum – An International Journal, 1(1): 89-97 (2009)\r\nRajesh Kumar et al. 90\r\nSuperfamily : Papilionoidea\r\nFamily : Pieridae\r\nGenus: Pieris Schränk\r\nPieris, Schrank, 1801. Fauna Bioca, pp. 152,\r\n164; Latr. Hist., Nat. Crust. Et Ins.xiv, 1805,\r\np.111.\r\nMancipium, Hübner, 1806. Tentamen, p.1.\r\nPontia, Fabr., 1807. Illig Mag. vi, p.283;\r\nMoore, Lep. Ind. Vi, 1904, p136.\r\nGanoris, Dalmann, 1816. vet.-Akad.\r\nHandl.xxxvii, pp.61, 86.\r\nParapieris, de Niceville, 1897. J.A.S.B.p.563.\r\nType sp.: Pieris rapae Linnaeus\r\nKey to the species on the basis of male\r\ngenitalia\r\n1. Valvae with concave curve at apex in\r\nmale genitalia…………....…….brassicae\r\nLinnaeus\r\n-- Valvae without concave curve at apex in\r\nmale genitalia\r\n….………………...………….….…2\r\n2. Valvae broad and round in shape at apex\r\nin male genitalia……...…….......rapae\r\nLinnaeus\r\n-- Valvae broad and slightly conical in shape\r\nat apex in male genitalia…….canidia\r\nSparrman\r\n1. Pieris brassicae Linnaeus (Plate I)\r\nPieris brassicae, Linnaeus, 1758. Syst. Nat.\r\ned. x, p.467; Godart, Encycl. Meth. Ix, 1819,\r\np.158; Lang, Butt. Eur. 1884, p.28; Elwes,\r\nTrans. Ent. Soc. 1888, p.416; Moore\r\n(Danaua), Lep. Ind. Vi, 1904, p.127, p l518\r\nPieris brassicae, Gray, 1846. Lep. Ins. Nepal,\r\np.6\r\nMancipium nipalense, Moore, 1882. P.Z.S.\r\np.256; Swinh. (Ganoris), 1885. Trans. Ent.\r\nSoc. p.343.\r\nDescription (Plate I, Figs. 1-15)\r\nAlar expanse: Male/Female 62-78 mm; Male:\r\nUpperside: Forewing creamy white with a\r\nsomewhat farinaceous appearance; forewing\r\nwith an irration of black scales at base and\r\nalong costa for a short distance; apex and\r\ntermen above vein 2 more or less broadly\r\nblack, the inner margin of the black area with\r\na regular even curve; in one or two specimens\r\na small longitudinally narrow black spot in\r\ninterspace 3; hindwing uniform, irrorated with\r\nblack scales at base, a large black sub costal\r\nspot before the apex, and in a very few\r\nspecimens indications of black scaling on the\r\ntermen anteriorly. Underside: Forewing white,\r\nslightly irrorated with black scales at base of\r\ncell and along costa, apex light ocherous\r\nbrown; a large black spot in outer half of\r\ninterspace 1, and another quadrate black spot\r\nat base of interspace 3; hindwing light\r\nocherous brown closely irrorated with minute\r\nblack scales; the sub costal black spot before\r\nthe apex shows through from the upperside;\r\nantennae black, white at apex; head, thorax\r\nand abdomen black, with some white hairs,\r\nbeneath whitish. Female: Upperside:\r\nForewing similar to that of male but irroration\r\nof black scales at the bases of the wings more\r\nextended; the black area on apex and termen\r\nof forewing, broader, its inner margin less\r\nevenly curved; a conspicuous large, black spot\r\nin outer half of interspace 1, and another near\r\nbase of interspace 3; hindwing with sub costal\r\nblack spot before apex much larger, more\r\npointed. Underside: Forewing similar to that\r\nof the male but the apex of the same and the\r\nwhole surface of the hindwing light ocherous\r\nyellow, not ocherous brown; the black discal\r\nspots on forewing much larger; antennae,\r\nhead, thorax and abdomen as in the male;\r\nWing Venation: Forewing with Sc straight, R1\r\narising from 2/3rd of upper angle of discal cell\r\nand ending to costa, R1 and R2 free arising\r\nfrom discal cell and ending to apex, R3, R4+5\r\nstalked; M1 stalked with R4+5; M2, M3 parallel\r\nand originating from discal cell, Cu1a and Cu1b\r\nfree and arising from lower angle of discal\r\ncell, 1A+2A fused; Hindwing: humeral vein\r\npresent in humeral area, humeral vein arising\r\nfrom Sc and Sc+R1 and Rs free arising from\r\ndiscal cell and ending to apex; M1 arising from\r\nupper angle of discal cell and M2, M3 arising\r\nform lower angle of discal cell and ending to\r\ntermen; Cu1a and Cu1b free arising from the\r\nlower angle of discal cell, 1A and 2A basally\r\nfused together, 3A present. Male genitalia:\r\nUncus small, curved conical shaped, broader\r\nbasally, beset with small hairs; tuba analis\r\nmembranous, well developed; gnathos present;\r\n91 Biological Forum – An International Journal, 1(1): 89-97 (2009)\r\ntegumen arched, well sclerotised; vinculum Ushaped,\r\nless sclerotised; valvae symmetrical,\r\nbroader basally, narrowed apically, costa\r\nconvex, sacculus convex, apically produced\r\ninto a long well sclerotised arm, curved, near\r\nbase of arm beset with hairs, cucullus well\r\ndeveloped, apically long, juxta sclerotised,\r\nslit-like; aedeagus small, smaller than valvae,\r\nbroader basally, narrowed distally, more\r\nsclerotised basally, ductus ejaculatorius\r\nentering side, coecum rounded, small; vesica\r\nmembranous, with cornutus; Female\r\ngenitalia: Papillae anales small, sparsely\r\nsetose, moderately sclerotised, eighth sternum\r\nwell sclerotised, beset with numerous, small,\r\nfine setae; anterior apophyses and posterior\r\napophyses thin and same in size, ostium\r\nbursae broad, sides well sclerotised; ductus\r\nbursae short, well sclerotised; corpus bursae\r\nlarge, oval shaped, less sclerotised, one pair\r\nwell developed signum present.\r\nMaterial examined\r\nDelhi: Trans Yamuna 8.x.2006, 8.ix.2007,\r\nIARI, New Delhi 17.xii.2006, 27.iv.2007.\r\nHaryana: 19.iv.2007, Uchana 20.iv.2007,\r\nKunjpura 7.iv.2007, Landaura 10.x.2006,\r\nSamalkha 11.ix.2007, Israna 12.vii.2007,\r\nKharkhoda 12.vii.2007, Gohana 12.vii.2007.\r\nHimachal Pradesh: Nagar 19.viii.2007,\r\nManali 20.viii.2007, Keylong 20.viii.2007,\r\nDalang 22.viii.2007, Kufri 7.viii.2007,\r\nBrachhawar 27.viii.2007, Kandhaghat\r\n29.viii.2007, Kassauli 01.ix.2007. Jammu &\r\nKashmir: Hardass 20.x.2006, Padum\r\n18.x.2006, Lamyuru 22.x.2006, Panamic\r\n(Nobra) 25.x.2006, Changthang 26.x.2006,\r\nSuru 29.x.2006, Keller 05.x.2006, Tral\r\n06.x.2006, SKUAST Shalimar 8.x.2006,\r\nGanderbal 9.x.2006. Punjab: Khanna\r\n20.x.2006, Raikot 21.x.2006, Balur 21.x.2006,\r\nMadhoke 26.x.2006, Rajpura 28.x.2006,\r\nNabha 29.x.2006. Uttarakhand: Pauri\r\nGarhwal 24.vi.2006, Srinagar Garhwal\r\n23.vi.2006, Bharsar 221.vi.2006, Jakholi\r\n15.vi.2006, Rudraprayag 28.vi.2006,\r\nRanichauri 30.x.2006, Pantnagar 1-7.x.2006,\r\nHaldwani 3.x.2006, Kashipur 4.x.2006. Uttar\r\nPradesh: AMU Aligarh 27.iv.2006, Loni\r\n13.iv.2006, Barot 12.iv.2006, Jawli\r\n13.iv.2006, Ramnagar 15.iv.2006, Bhojipura\r\n16.iv.2006, Dhampur 17.iv.2006, Chandpur\r\n18.iv.2006, Anupshahar 1.iv.2006.\r\nDistribution: Throughout India\r\nHost range: Cabbage, cauliflower, radish and\r\nturnip.\r\nRemarks: Bingham (1807) described this\r\nspecies superficially and the present studies\r\ncovered all the taxonomic aspects including\r\nwing venation, colour patterns, genitalic\r\nstructures with photograph and line diagrams.\r\n2. Pieris rapae Linnaeus (Plate-II)\r\nPieris rapae Linn. (Papilio), 1881. Syst. Nat.\r\ned. X, 1758, p.468; Butler (Ganoris), P.Z.S.\r\np.612; Moore (Danaus), 1904. Lep. Ind.vi,\r\np.131, pl.519.\r\nPontia mannii, Meyer, 1880. Stett. Ent. Zeit.\r\n1851, p.151; Butler (Ganoris), P.Z.S. p.411.\r\nDescription (Plate II, Figs. 16-26)\r\nAlar expanse: Male and Female 50-58 mm;\r\nMale: Upperside: white, base of both wings\r\nand costa of forewing for a short distance\r\nsparsely irrorated with black scales; forewing\r\nsometimes narrowly, sometimes broadly\r\nblack; a round black spot in the middle of\r\ninterspace 3; hindwing uniform with only a\r\nvery short, transverse, laterally compressed,\r\nand generally diffuse black spot in interspace\r\n7 that crosses vein 7 to the costa. Underside:\r\nground-colour similar, forewing: upper half of\r\ncell and costal margin above it sparsely\r\nirrorated with black scales, apex faintly shaded\r\nwith ochraceous or cream colour, a black spot\r\nin interspace 3 as on the upperside and another\r\nin line with it below in interspace 1; hindwing\r\nwith dorsal margin somewhat broadly white,\r\nremainder of wing cream-colour, base and cell\r\nsparsely irrorated with black scales; antennae,\r\nhead,thorax and abdomen black checkered\r\nwith white scales and a little whitish\r\npubescence on the head and thorax, beneath:\r\nhead, thorax and abdomen white; Wing\r\nVenation: Forewing with Sc straight, R1\r\narising from 2/3rd of upper angle of discal cell\r\nand ending to costa, R1 and R2 free arising\r\nfrom discal cell and ending to apex, R3, R4+5\r\nstalked; M1 stalked with R4+5; M2, M3 parallel\r\nRajesh Kumar et al. 92\r\nand originating from discal cell, Cu1a and Cu1b\r\nfree and arising from lower angle of discal\r\ncell, 1A+2A fused; Hindwing: humeral vein\r\npresent in humeral area, humeral vein arising\r\nfrom Sc and Sc+R1 and Rs free arising from\r\ndiscal cell and ending to apex; M1 arising from\r\nupper angle of discal cell and M2, M3 arising\r\nform lower angle of discal cell and ending to\r\ntermen; Cu1a and Cu1b free arising from the\r\nlower angle of discal cell, 1A and 2A basally\r\nfused together, 3A present; Male genitalia:\r\nUncus small, curved conical shaped, broader\r\nbasally, beset with small hairs; tuba analis\r\nmembranous, well developed; gnathos present;\r\ntegumen arched, well sclerotised; vinculum Ushaped,\r\nless sclerotised; valvae symmetrical,\r\nbroader basally, narrowed apically, costa\r\nconvex, sacculus convex, apically produced\r\ninto a long well sclerotised arm, curved, near\r\nbase of arm beset with hairs, cucullus well\r\ndeveloped, apically long, juxta sclerotised,\r\nslit-like; aedeagus small, smaller than valvae,\r\nbroader basally, narrowed distally, more\r\nsclerotised basally, ductus ejaculatorius\r\nentering side, coecum rounded, small; vesica\r\nmembranous, with cornutus. Female\r\ngenitalia: not available\r\nMaterial examined\r\nDelhi: Trans Yamuna 8.x.2006, 8.ix.2007,\r\nIARI, New Delhi 17.xii.2006, 27.iv.2007.\r\nHimachal Pradesh: Sarol 12.x.2006, Saho\r\n12.x.2006, Bhanota 13.x.2006, Krishi Vigyan\r\nKendra, Kangra 13.viii.2007, Tira\r\n14.viii.2007, Sujanpur 15.viii.2007. Jammu &\r\nKashmir: Achabal 10.x.2006, Shangus\r\n11.x.2006, Kulgam 12.x.2006, Dachnipora\r\n13.x.2006, Sopore 14.x.2006, Gurez\r\n15.x.2006, Bandipore 16.x.2006, Jammu\r\nUniversity Campus 02.x.2006, Zanskar\r\n18.x.2006, Jangla 19.x.2006, Hardass\r\n20.x.2006, Padum 18.x.2006, Lamyuru\r\n22.x.2006, Panamic (Nobra) 25.x.2006,\r\nChangthang 26.x.2006, Suru 29.x.2006, Keller\r\n05.x.2006, Tral 06.x.2006, SKUAST Shalimar\r\n8.x.2006, Ganderbal 9.x.2006. Uttarakhand:\r\nFRI Dehradun 20.vi.2007, Rishikesh\r\n27.vi.2006, Gurukul Kangri University\r\nCampus Haridwar 26.vi.2006, Pauri Garhwal\r\n24.vi.2006, Srinagar Garhwal 23.vi.2006,\r\nBharsar 221.vi.2006, Jakholi 15.vi.2006,\r\nRudraprayag 28.vi.2006, Ranichauri\r\n30.x.2006, Pantnagar 1-7.x.2006, Haldwani\r\n3.x.2006, Kashipur 4.x.2006. Uttar Pradesh:\r\nAMU Aligarh 27.iv.2006, Loni 13.iv.2006,\r\nBarot 12.iv.2006, Jawli 13.iv.2006, Ramnagar\r\n15.iv.2006, Bhojipura 16.iv.2006, Dhampur\r\n17.iv.2006, Chandpur 18.iv.2006, Anupshahar\r\n1.iv.2006, Syana 2.iv.2006.\r\nDistribution: North India especially\r\nHimalayan region.\r\nHost range: Cabbage and cauliflower.\r\nRemarks: Bingham (1807) described this\r\nspecies superficially and the present studies\r\ncovered all the taxonomic aspects including\r\nwing venation, colour patterns, genitalic\r\nstructures with photograph and line diagrams.\r\n3. Pieris canidia Sparrman (Plate-III)\r\nPieris canidia Sparrman, 1871. Amaen Acad\r\nvii, 1768, p.504; Kirby, Syn. Cat. Di. Lep.\r\np.455; Elwes, Trans. Ent. Soc. Xi, 1898,\r\np.590, pl.5, fig.21, pupa; Moore (Danaus),\r\nLep. Ind. vi 1904, p.133, pl. 520, fig. 1, 1a-1h\r\nmale and female.\r\nPieris gliciria, Cramer (Papillio), 1779. Pap.\r\nExot. Ii, pl.171, Fig. E, F; Biosduval, Gen.\r\nLep.i, 1836, p.424; Kollar, Hügel,s Kashmir,\r\niv (2), 1844, p. 409.\r\nPieris napi Gray (nec Linn.) 1846. Lep. Ins.\r\nNepal, p.6, pl. 6, fig. 2 male.\r\nDescription (Plate III, Figs. 29-43)\r\nAlar expanse: Male and Female: 42-60mm;\r\nMale: Upperside: white to pale cream-colour,\r\nforewing with base and basal portion of costa,\r\nand base and upper margin of cell irrorated\r\nwith black scales; apex and terminal margin to\r\nabout the middle, decreasingly, black, on the\r\nlatter the black extended for a very short\r\ndistance triangularly along veins; a round\r\nblack spot in interspace 3; hindwing with a\r\nsubcostal black spot as in Pieris rapae, but\r\ngenerally larger and more conspicuous, and a\r\nseries of four or five terminal black spots that\r\nvary in size at the apices of the veins.\r\nUnderside: Forewing white; cell and costa\r\nlightly irrorated with black scales; apex\r\nsomewhat broadly tinged with ochraceous\r\n93 Biological Forum – An International Journal, 1(1): 89-97 (2009)\r\nyellow; interspaces 1, 3 and 5 with\r\nconspicuous subquadrate black spots, the spot\r\nin interspace 1, sometimes extended into\r\ninterspace 1a, that in 5 ill-defined; hindwing\r\nfrom pale, almost white, to dark ochreous,\r\nthickly irrorated all over (with the exception of\r\na longitudinal streak in the cell, and in the\r\ndarker specimens similar longitudinal streaks\r\nin the interspaces) with black scales; costa\r\nabove vein 8 chrome-yellow; antennae black\r\nwith minute white black; beneath head, thorax\r\nand abdomen white; Female: Upperside:\r\nsimilar to that of the male but the irroration of\r\nblack scales more extended and prominent, the\r\nblack spot on the apex and termen of the\r\nforewing and the black spots on the termen of\r\nthe hindwing broader, more extended inwards;\r\non the forewing there is an additional spot in\r\ninterspace 3 in many specimens are connected\r\nby a line of black scales along the veins to the\r\nouter black border; also the spot in interspace\r\n1 often extends across vein 1 into the\r\ninterspace below. Underside: similar to that in\r\nmale; Wing Venation: Forewing with Sc\r\nstraight, R1 arising from 2/3rd of upper angle of\r\ndiscal cell and ending to costa, R1 and R2 free\r\narising from discal cell and ending to apex, R3,\r\nR4+5 stalked; M1 stalked with R4+5; M2, M3\r\nparallel and originating from discal cell, Cu1a\r\nand Cu1b free and arising from lower angle of\r\ndiscal cell, 1A+2A fused; Hindwing: humeral\r\nvein present in humeral area, humeral vein\r\narising from Sc and Sc+R1 and Rs free arising\r\nfrom discal cell and ending to apex; M1 arising\r\nfrom upper angle of discal cell and M2, M3\r\narising form lower angle of discal cell and\r\nending to termen; Cu1a and Cu1b free arising\r\nfrom the lower angle of discal cell, 1A and 2A\r\nbasally fused together, 3A present; Male\r\ngenitalia: Uncus small, curved conical shaped,\r\nbroader basally, beset with small hairs; tuba\r\nanalis membranous, well developed; gnathos\r\npresent; tegumen arched, well sclerotised;\r\nvinculum U-shaped, less sclerotised; valvae\r\nsymmetrical, broader basally, narrowed\r\napically, costa convex, sacculus convex,\r\napically produced into a long well sclerotised\r\narm, curved, near base of arm beset with hairs,\r\ncucullus well developed, apically long, juxta\r\nsclerotised, slit-like; aedeagus small, smaller\r\nthan valvae, broader basally, narrowed\r\ndistally, more sclerotised basally, ductus\r\nejaculatorius entering side, coecum rounded,\r\nsmall; vesica membranous, with cornutus;\r\nFemale genitalia: Papillae anales small,\r\nsparsely setose, moderately sclerotised, eighth\r\nsternum well sclerotised, beset with numerous,\r\nsmall, fine setae; anterior apophyses and\r\nposterior apophyses thin and same in size,\r\nostium bursae broad, sides well sclerotised;\r\nductus bursae short, well sclerotised; corpus\r\nbursae large, oval shaped, less sclerotised, one\r\npair well developed signum present but it is\r\nfused together.\r\nMaterial examined\r\nHimachal Pradesh: Sarol 12.x.2006, Saho\r\n12.x.2006, Bhanota 13.x.2006, Krishi Vigyan\r\nKendra, Kangra 13.viii.2007, Tira\r\n14.viii.2007, Sujanpur 15.viii.2007, KVK\r\nKangra 16.viii.2007, Dera 17.viii.2007,\r\nHPKV, Palampur 18.viii.2007, Nagar\r\n19.viii.2007, Manali 20.viii.2007, Keylong\r\n20.viii.2007, Dalang 22.viii.2007, Kufri\r\n7.viii.2007, Brachhawar 27.viii.2007,\r\nKandhaghat 29.viii.2007, Kassauli 01.ix.2007.\r\nJammu & Kashmir: Achabal 10.x.2006,\r\nShangus 11.x.2006, Kulgam 12.x.2006,\r\nDachnipora 13.x.2006, Sopore 14.x.2006,\r\nGurez 15.x.2006, Bandipore 16.x.2006,\r\nJammu University Campus 02.x.2006,\r\nZanskar 18.x.2006, Jangla 19.x.2006, Hardass\r\n20.x.2006, Padum 18.x.2006, Lamyuru\r\n22.x.2006, Panamic (Nobra) 25.x.2006,\r\nChangthang 26.x.2006, Suru 29.x.2006, Keller\r\n05.x.2006, Tral 06.x.2006, SKUAST Shalimar\r\n8.x.2006, Ganderbal 9.x.2006. Uttarakhand:\r\nFRI Dehradun 20.vi.2007, Rishikesh\r\n27.vi.2006, Gurukul Kangri University\r\nCampus Haridwar 26.vi.2006, Pauri Garhwal\r\n24.vi.2006, Srinagar Garhwal 23.vi.2006,\r\nBharsar 221.vi.2006, Jakholi 15.vi.2006,\r\nRudraprayag 28.vi.2006, Ranichauri\r\n30.x.2006, Pantnagar 1-7.x.2006, Haldwani\r\n3.x.2006, Kashipur 4.x.2006.\r\nDistribution: The Himalayas from Chitral and\r\nKashmir to Sikhim and Bhutan, from 2000 to\r\n11,000ft elevation, the hills of Southern India,\r\nAssam, Upper Myanmar, the Shan States,\r\nextended to China.\r\nRajesh Kumar et al. 94\r\nHost range: Cruciferous vegetables: cabbage,\r\ncauliflower\r\nRemarks: Bingham (1807) described this\r\nspecies superficially and the present studies\r\ncovered all the taxonomic aspects including\r\nwing venation, colour patterns, genitalic\r\nstructures with photograph and line diagrams.','Rajesh Kumar, Gaurav Sharma1, Neeraj Kumar2 and V.V. Ramamurthy (2009). Taxonomic studies on vegetable pests of Family Pieridae (Lepidoptera) form North India. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 1(1): 89-97. '),(4650,'131','Effect of radiomimetic agents on two varieties of Trigonella with\r\nemphasis on plant height and pod numbers','Dheeraj Vasu and Zia Ul Hasan','16 Dheeraj.pdf','',1,'The radiomimetic agents like, EMS (Ethyl Methane Sulphonate), MMS (Methyl Methane\r\nSulphonate) and MES (Methyl Ethane Sulphonate) induce plant height and number of pods per plant\r\nin two varieties of Trigonella foenum graecum L. i.e., Desi methi and Kasuri methi. Plant height at\r\nmaturity increases by the treatment of 0.3% MMS in Desi and 0.1%MES in Kasuri methi. Number\r\nof pods per plant observed under the treatment of 0.3% EMS and 0.3% MMS in Desi methi and\r\nKasuri methi, respectively. The mutants obtained from the treatments 0.3% MMS for height, 0.3%\r\nEMS for number of pods per plant in Desi methi and treatments 0.1% MES for height, 0.3% MMS\r\nfor number of pods per plant in Kasuri methi give more yield as compared to control plants.','Trigonella, EMS, MMS, MES, plants','The radiomimetic agents like, EMS (Ethyl Methane Sulphonate), MMS (Methyl Methane\r\nSulphonate) and MES (Methyl Ethane Sulphonate) induce plant height and number of pods per plant\r\nin two varieties of Trigonella foenum graecum L. i.e., Desi methi and Kasuri methi. Plant height at\r\nmaturity increases by the treatment of 0.3% MMS in Desi and 0.1%MES in Kasuri methi. Number\r\nof pods per plant observed under the treatment of 0.3% EMS and 0.3% MMS in Desi methi and\r\nKasuri methi, respectively. The mutants obtained from the treatments 0.3% MMS for height, 0.3%\r\nEMS for number of pods per plant in Desi methi and treatments 0.1% MES for height, 0.3% MMS\r\nfor number of pods per plant in Kasuri methi give more yield as compared to control plants.','Two varieties of Trigonella foenum-graecum\r\nL. i.e. Desi methi and Kasuri methi are major\r\ncrops in Central India. Radiomimetic agents\r\nhave been introduced into plant breeding\r\nproving to be most effective in the\r\ndevelopment of high yielding crop cultivars.\r\nThese agents modify bases or phosphates by\r\nalkylating them. In Trigonella foenum\r\ngraecum L. Raghuvanshi and Singh (1974),\r\nstudied the mutagenic effect of colchicines\r\nand gamma rays. Laxmi et al. (1983), studied\r\na green seed coat colour of mutant in\r\nTrigonella foenum-graecum L., followed with\r\ntreatment of 0.6% MMS. Jain and Agrawal\r\n(1987) treated the seeds of Trigonella\r\ncorniculata and Trigonella foenum graecum\r\nL. with different concentration of EMS, MMS\r\nand SA (NaN3) separately to study the effect\r\non the level of ascorbic acid. Devi and Reddy\r\n(1990) studied sensitivity to chemical\r\nmutagens like, ethyl methane sulphonate\r\n(EMS), diethyl sulphonate (DES) and ethylene\r\nimine (EI) in Trigonella foenum-graecum L.\r\nMaximum percentage of seed germination was\r\nobtained at 1 and 10 ppm, 0.5 and 1 ppm IBA,\r\n0.5 ppm NAA and 10 ppm GA3. Lower doses\r\nof IAA (0.5 and 1 ppm) promoted shooting.\r\nHigher doses of GA3 i.e., 50 and 100 ppm\r\nsignificantly improved shooting. IAA induced\r\nmaximum rooting while GA3 induced\r\nmaximum shooting. They also conclude that\r\ninorganic macronutrients (KNO3 and\r\nNH4NO3) also increase growth and\r\nproductivity of methi Gupta and Kumar\r\n(2003). A field experiment was conducted on\r\nloamy sand soil to study the effect of iron,\r\nmolybdenum and Rhizobium inoculation of\r\nfenugreek (Trigonella foenum-graecum L.).\r\nIron at 0.5 kg/ha and seed inoculation with\r\nRhizobium significantly increased plant height,\r\ndry matter accumulation, metre row length,\r\nbranches per plant, number and dry weight of\r\nroot nodules per plant, pods per plant, straw\r\nand biological yields. Seed pod and test\r\nweight were also significantly higher with\r\nRhizobium inoculation over no inoculation,\r\nKumawat et al. (2003). The potential of\r\nchemical mutagens for creation of useful\r\nmutations in fenugreek quality attributes is yet\r\nto be further evaluated. The present study was\r\naimed to explore the utility of EMS, MMS and\r\nMES in fenugreek genetic improvement based\r\non analysis of the quality of several advanced\r\nbreeding lines.\r\nMATERIALS AND METHODS\r\nTwo varieties of Trigonella foenum-graecum\r\nL. i.e. Desi methi and Kasuri methi cultivated\r\nin Central India were utilized for the present\r\nstudy. The seeds presoaked in distilled water\r\nBiological Forum – An International Journal, 1(1): 98-104 (2009)\r\nDheeraj Vasu and Zia Ul Hasan 99\r\nfor 12 hrs were selected for the study, and\r\ntreated with freshly prepared aqueous solution\r\nof different concentrations of radiomimetic\r\nagents, EMS (Ethyl methane sulphonate),\r\nMMS (Methyl methane sulphonate and MES\r\n(Methyl ethane sulphonate) for 4 hrs.\r\nIntermittent shaking was done throughout the\r\ntreatment. After the treatment, seeds\r\nthoroughly washed in running water for 15\r\nminutes before sowing. The seeds were sown\r\nin randomized block design (RBD) at Safia\r\nScience College, Bhopal.\r\nRESULTS AND DISCUSSION\r\nPlant height\r\nThe data recorded on plant height of variety\r\nDesi methi at maturity with the treatment of\r\nthree radiomimetic agents were given in\r\n(Table 1; Fig. 1). Mean plant height increased\r\ndue to all the three treatments. The plant\r\nheight ranged 22.0-37.0cm in control with\r\nmean height 25.7 ± 1.5cm, while increase\r\nheight range 17.3-32.8cm with mean height\r\n30.8 ± 1.7cm. In all the treatments of EMS,\r\nMMS and MES, a significant increase of\r\nheight was observed (Table 1), which is also\r\nevident from the SD, CV and CD, analysis. In\r\nvariety Kasuri methi effect of radiomimetic\r\ntreatments showed highest plant height which\r\nrange between 25-39cm with mean height 33.7\r\n± 1.7cm in comparison of control ranges 24-\r\n40 with mean height 35.5 ± 1.5cm. The plant\r\nheight significantly increased under 0.2%,\r\n0.3% of EMS, and 0.1%, 0.2% of MES, while\r\nin remaining all the treatments decrease in the\r\nmean height of plants was observed in\r\ncomparison to control (Table 2; Fig. 2).\r\nNumber of pods per plant\r\nHighest number of pods per plant in variety\r\nDesi methi was observed under 0.3% MMS\r\ntreatment range between a 9-26, with mean\r\n18.9 ± 1.1 in comparison of control where this\r\nparameter range between 13-23, with mean\r\n16.2 ± 0.72. In all the treatments mean value\r\nincreased except 0.1% MES, while 16.3 ± 1.2\r\nmore or less equal to control. SD, CV and CD\r\nanalysis indicate that the effect of\r\nradiomimetic agents enhanced these\r\nparameters (Table 3; Fig. 3). In variety Kasuri\r\nmethi, number of pods per plant was ranged\r\nbetween 10-19 where mean 17.34 ± 1.4, which\r\nwas highest under 0.3% MMS, in comparison\r\nof control ranged between 12-20, mean value\r\n14.98 ± 1.0. In this variety also the number of\r\npods per plant significantly increases under all\r\nthe treatments of three radiomimetic agents.\r\nThe results were tested by using statistical\r\nanalysis i.e. SD, CV and CD (Table 4; Fig. 4).\r\nAs per the results obtained from the\r\nstatistical analysis it seems that all the\r\ntreatments increase plant height and number of\r\npods per plants. Same results were shown by\r\nBandhopadhyay and Bose (1983) in urdbean.\r\nA linear dependency of seedling height on the\r\ndosage of physical and chemical mutagens\r\nhave been reported by Mikaelsen et al. (1968)\r\nin rice; Siddiq and Swaminathan (1968) in\r\nOryza sativa; Ando (1970) in rice; Katoch et\r\nal. (1992) in rice; Wang et al. (1995) in rice.\r\nIn case of number of pods per plants same\r\ntypes of observation have been reported by\r\nKumar and Gupta (2007) in Nigella sativa.','Dheeraj Vasu and Zia Ul Hasan (2009). Effect of radiomimetic agents on two varieties of Trigonella with emphasis on plant height and pod numbers. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 1(1): 98-104. '),(4651,'131','Physiological strategies of plant breeding for drought and salinity\r\ntolerance in cotton','B.S. Janagoudar','17.pdf','',1,'-','-','-','India has a pride place in the global\r\nscenario, with the cultivation of varieties\r\nfalling under all the four cultivated species\r\nof cotton viz., Gossypium hirsutum, G.\r\nbarbadense, G. arboretum and G.\r\nherbaceum. India with 9.0 M ha sown\r\nunder cotton contributes 80 per cent of the\r\nraw material of textile industry occupies\r\nfirst place in area and second in production\r\nafter China. With the present production of\r\n30.0 m bales of lint in India, the\r\nproductivity is 564 kg of lint yield per\r\nhectare as compared to world average of\r\n573 kg per hectare.\r\nAbiotic stresses, especially salinity and\r\ndrought are the primary causes of crop loss\r\nworldwide. Infact, global scarcity of\r\nwater resources and the increased\r\nsalinisation of soil and water abiotic stress\r\nis a major limiting factor in plant growth.\r\nIn particular, excess amount of salt in the\r\nsoil adversely affects plant growth and\r\ndevelopment. Nearly 20% of the worlds\r\ncultivated area and nearly half of the\r\nworlds irrigated lands are affected by\r\nsalinity. Generally, it is easy to resist\r\nbiotic stresses, which are mostly\r\nmonogenic traits. But the complex\r\nresponses like abiotic stresses are\r\nmultigenic in nature and thus difficult to\r\ncontrol and engineer the crop plants to\r\novercome severe environmental stress in\r\nthe world where population growth\r\nexceeds food supply.\r\nThe performance of genotypes in terms\r\nof productivity is the net result of\r\ninteraction of genotypes and environment.\r\nSo far, breeders have made attempts to\r\nbreed high yielding genotypes under\r\nrainfed and high salinity conditions based\r\non only morphological, yield and yield\r\nattributing characters. However, drought\r\nand salt tolerant traits include\r\nmorphological, physiological, biophysical\r\nand biochemical parameters which have a\r\nmolecular genetic base. Thus, there is a\r\nneed to identify drought and salinity\r\ntolerant traits and cultivars to minimize the\r\nreduction in production and productivity\r\nof crops.\r\nWith these points in view, field and\r\npot experiments were conducted in the\r\npresent investigation. Initially, large\r\nnumber of genotypes belonging to three\r\nspecies viz., G. hirsutum, G. herbaceum\r\nand G. arboreum were screened for\r\ndrought tolerance based on morphophysiological\r\ncharacters under different\r\ndegree of moisture stress established\r\nthrough line source technique. Based on\r\nhigh CER, LA/TDM ratio and WUE\r\ngenotypes were evaluated for drought\r\ntolerance in the field. Similarly, large\r\nnumber of genotypes was evaluated for\r\nsalt tolerance under naturally graded saline\r\nsoils in the field which is available at\r\nARS, Gangavati.\r\nThe genotypes found tolerant in the\r\ndrought and salt screening experiments\r\nduring the preliminary investigation were\r\nsubjected for detailed investigations to\r\nunderstand the physiological and\r\nbiochemical mechanism of drought/salt\r\ntolerance. The techniques amenable for\r\nscreening and useful for further research\r\nprogramme were standardized. The\r\nBiological Forum – An International Journal, 1(1): 105-106 (2009)\r\nB.S. Janagoudar 106\r\nparameters considered were canopy\r\ntemperature, osmotic adjustment, water\r\nuse efficiency, membrane integrity and\r\nphotosynthesis. The other components of\r\nphotosynthesis like stomatal frequency,\r\nstomatal conductance, transpiration rate\r\nand nitrate reductase activity were\r\nestimated.\r\nHaving screened more than 300\r\ngenotypes in the field, some of them have\r\nbeen identified as drought tolerant and\r\nsusceptible in all the three species of\r\ncotton. Based on drought tolerant traits the\r\ngenotypes CBR-8, LRA-5166, CPD-418\r\nand TCH-1002 in G. hirsutum, DB-3-12,\r\nR-51 and H-10 in G. herbaceum and A-\r\n82-1-1,AK-235 and PA-183 in G.\r\narboreum were identified as drought\r\ntolerant.\r\nIn another investigation, cotton\r\nvarieties belonging to three cultivated\r\ncotton species were screened for salt\r\ntolerance at different levels of salinity\r\nunder pot and field conditions.\r\nThe results indicated that the\r\ngenotypes RAHS-14, LRA-5166 and AK-\r\n235 showed less reduction in seed\r\ngermination, shoot and root vigor index,\r\nleaf area and total dry matter both at 30\r\nand 60 days when compared to susceptible\r\ngenotype AKH-4. Further, the genotypes\r\nLRA-5166, RAHS-14 and AK-84635 had\r\ncomparatively higher photosynthetic rate,\r\nstomatal conductance and transpiration\r\nrate at all the salinity levels whereas,\r\nmaximum reductions were observed in\r\nAKH-4. The genotypic differences in\r\nionic composition (Na+, K++ and Ca++)\r\nwere apparent. Among the genotypes,\r\nAKH-4 and JK-276-10-5 accumulated\r\nmore sodium and less potassium in leaf\r\nwhereas, AK-235, RAHS-14, LRA-5166\r\nand AK-84635 accumulated more\r\npotassium and comparatively lower\r\nsodium in stem and leaves and these\r\ngenotypes also had higher catalase and\r\nperoxides activity. These characters had\r\nsignificant positive correlation with seed\r\ncotton yield and total dry matter. In vitro\r\nstudies also showed significant variation in\r\ncallus growth, seedling vigor and\r\nantioxidant enzyme among the different\r\ncotton genotypes.\r\nFinally based on the above\r\ninvestigations, it could be concluded that\r\nthe genotype CPD-431 was found to be\r\ndrought tolerant and the genotype, RAHS-\r\n14 has been identified as salt tolerant\r\nbased on morpho-physiological, biophysical\r\nand bio-chemical characters and\r\nhave been released for cultivation under\r\ndrought and saline situations in Karnataka\r\nrespectively. In addition, various plant\r\ntypes have been developed suitab','B.S. Janagoudar(2009). Physiological strategies of plant breeding for drought and salinity\r\ntolerance in cotton Biological Forum – An International Journal, 1(1): 105-106. '),(4652,'131','Topical outbreak of migratory locust, Locusta migratoria migratorioides\r\n(Reiche & Fairmaire) in Ladakh valley of Jammu and Kashmir','Rajesh Kumar\r\n Z.H. Khan\r\nV.V. Ramamurthy','18 Rajesh.pdf','',1,'-','-','-','Locust is the name given to the swarming\r\nphase of short-horned grasshoppers of the\r\nfamily Acrididae. These species can breed\r\nrapidly under suitable conditions and\r\nsubsequently become gregarious (Farrow,\r\n1975) and migratory. They form bands as\r\nnymphs and swarms as adults, both of which\r\ncan travel great distances, rapidly stripping\r\nfields and enormously damaging crops.\r\nLocusta migratoria migratorioides (Reiche &\r\nFairmaire) is a polyphagous /graminivorous\r\n(Blunt, 1931; Chevalier, 1931) insect pest and\r\ndamages wide range of agricultural,\r\nhorticultural and forestry plantation. It is also\r\nknown as migratory locust because of its great\r\ndistance flying habit. This pest is very noxious\r\nand is distributed world wide (Benedictis,\r\n1930). This subspecies has one of its main\r\nbreeding areas in the flood plain of the middle\r\nniger in Mali. L. migratoria migratorioides\r\nactually indigenous in the lake chad basin\r\nwhere it has been known for 100 years (Davy\r\nand Johnston, 1956). It is first time noticed in\r\nKargil (Zanskar valley) (Fig. 1) and Leh\r\ndistricts of Ladakh region, Jammu & Kashmir\r\nduring the month of August, 2006.\r\nFarmers must have awareness about this\r\nlocust because it comes annually or\r\nbiannually. It came in swarms (Fig. 2) with\r\nwind flow and lay eggs in the soil near river\r\narea or wet soil. After laying eggs starts flying\r\nto other area and damage crops. It is reported\r\nthat the eggs of this locust never diapauses in\r\ntropical area. It has been noticed that the\r\nbreeding period of this locust is rainy season.\r\nThis locust (L. migratoria migratorioides) is\r\nexclusively graminivorous, there are numerous\r\nauthentic records of crop plants of many other\r\nfamilies being attacked and sometimes\r\nseverely damaged. The damage was noticed to\r\nother crops that when grasses are not available\r\nor are so dry as not to satisfy the water\r\nrequirements of the locust. It attacks most of\r\nthe crops viz., common millet, finger millet,\r\nmaize, rice, sorghum, sugarcane, cotton,\r\ngrasses, weeds, vegetables and field crops\r\n(oats, sesame, wheat). During field surveys in\r\nAugust, 2006, it was observed that the\r\nmigratory locust was dominant in Zanskar\r\nregion viz., Yulsum, Shiela, Rantaksha, while\r\nin Leh villages viz. Hanley, Changthang and\r\nHemya. Most of the crops were affected by\r\nthis locust in the Ladakh region. Severe\r\ndamage was noticed in these two districts\r\nKargil and Leh are in Ladakh region. Sever\r\ndamage was noticed in these two districts\r\nKargil and Leh are in Ladakh region. The\r\ntuber crops, cereal crops, fodder crops,\r\nleguminous crops and forest trees were all\r\naffected. Migration was observed in Abran\r\nvillage up to Panzilla pass (78 km from\r\nZanskar). The locust were flying about 50 mt.\r\nheights from the ground and were moving\r\ntowards Panzilla pass.\r\nThroughout the continuous survey\r\napproximately 1100 specimens of L.\r\nmigratoria migratorioides were collected\r\nincludes life stages eggs, nymphs and adults.\r\nIn Zanskar the pest was noticed on different\r\ncrops; highest damage was noticed on pasture\r\nlands 80-87 % at different villages followed\r\nby wheat (Fig. 3)/barley with 25-90% damage.\r\nIn Leh division there was 100% damage on\r\npotato (Fig. 4), followed by 81-90% on Barley\r\ncrops and 5-20% damage was noticed on other\r\ncrops, besides lentil was found only in Hemya\r\nvillage with highest damage 60-70%. The\r\nexistence of known major and minor outbreak\r\nareas makes it feasible to prevent the\r\ndevelopment of further plagues by controlling\r\nthe locust in the outbreak areas, so preventing\r\nthe formation of swarms, is one of the\r\nimportant methods. Most of the laid eggs will\r\nnot be hatched due to winter season of\r\nBiological Forum – An International Journal, 1(1): 107-109 (2009)\r\nRajesh Kumar et al. 108\r\nLadakh. In this region temperature will be in\r\nminus degrees. The eggs will remain in\r\nhibernation as it is under the soil, which will\r\nhatch in the next coming year during the\r\nmonth of April and May. After emergence,\r\nhigh population of nymphs can cause heavy\r\ninfestation to the crops as well as vegetations.\r\nIn spite of this, Schistocerca gregaria is\r\nthe most important locust in the Indian region,\r\nit is likely that most swarms concerned that\r\nspecies. L. migratoria migratorioides can be\r\nidentified with the character of prosternal\r\ntubercle, is absent (Fig. 7) and present in S.\r\ngregaria (Fig. 8).\r\nThe existence of know major and minor\r\noutbreak areas makes it feasible to prevent the\r\ndevelopment of further plagues by controlling\r\nthe locust in the outbreak areas, so preventing\r\nformation of swarms. The field surveys must\r\nbe carried out immediately in affected area.\r\nChlorpyrifos 20 EC @ 2.25 lit/ha and\r\nCypermethrin 10 EC @ 400ml/ha was\r\nrecommended to control the outbreak of\r\nlocust.','Rajesh Kumar Z.H. Khan V.V. Ramamurthy(2009).Topical outbreak of migratory locust, Locusta migratoria migratorioides (Reiche & Fairmaire) in Ladakh valley of Jammu and Kashmir. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 1(1): 107-109. '),(4653,'112','Evaluation of Quality Attributes and Storage Studies of Guava Nectar','Poonam*, P.K.S. Gurjar, Rajesh Lekhi, Shubham Singh Rathour and Shubham Bhadoriya and Pushpendra Rajput','308 Evaluation of Quality Attributes and Storage Studies of Guava Nectar Poonam.pdf','',1,'Experiment was conducted to study the physico-chemical attributes with storage period of guava nectar prepared from different Guava cultivars viz., Lalit, L-49, Shweta and Gwalior-27 and their pulp proportions. Guava is highly perishable fruit and processing is the only option to ensure prolong and off-season consumption of guava. Since guava nectar is popular and a favorite drink among folks, our study is to prepare guava nectar with different cultivars’ pulp combination to analyze quality and storage life of the nectar. \r\nNectar was prepared according to the combinations under 12 treatments with same level of sugar (600g/kg pulp) and citric acid (1g/kg pulp) analyzed under Completely Randomized Design. Physico-chemical parameters viz., TSS, acidity, ascorbic acid, total sugar and pH as well as organoleptic attributes viz., colour, flavour, taste and overall acceptability of nectar were evaluated at 0, 30, 60 and 90 days of storage.\r\nNectar was found better under treatment T2 [Lalit(100%)] followed byT5 [G-27+Lalit (50%+50%)]. TSS was found significantly higher (16.23%) in T2 [Lalit (100%)] followed byT5 [G-27+Lalit (50% +50%)]while, lowest TSS content was recorded (14.60%) in T12 [G-27+L-49+Lalit+Sweta (25%+25%+25%+25%)]. Acidity was found maximum (0.38 %) in T2 [Lalit (100%)] followed by T5 [G-27+Lalit (50% +50%)] and minimum (0.28%) in T3[L-49 (100%)]. Highest ascorbic acid and pH value was observed (18.29 mg/100ml and 3.40 respectively) in T2 [Lalit (100%)] followed by T5 [G-27+Lalit (50% +50%)] while minimum (14.11 mg/100ml and 3.23) in T1 [G-27 (100%)]. Total sugar was found highest (13.34%) in T2 [Lalit (100%)] followed by T5 [G-27+Lalit (50%+50%)] while lowest (12.13%) in T8 [Lalit+L-49(50% +50%)]. In terms of organoleptically treatments T2 &T5 were found better at all three storage periods.\r\n','Ascorbic acid, Guava, Nectar, Physico-chemical parameters, Storage, TSS','Treatments were considerably dissimilar from one another with respect of all parameters. The physico-chemical and organoleptic parameters under all storage periods were found best when nectar was prepared using 100 % pulp of Lalit cultivar alone followed by combination of pulp with 50 % Gwalior-27 and 50 % Lalit.TSS, acidity and total sugar content in nectar were increased while ascorbic acid, pH and mean score of sensory attributes viz., colour, taste, flavour and overall acceptability were decreased in all treatments under 0, 30, 60 and 90 days after storage. Future scope of this study includes guava nectar preparation with more different preservatives, combination of other different varieties and also with other fruits.','INTRODUCTION\r\nGuava (Psidium guajava L.), belongs to Myrtaceae, native of Tropical America or southern Mexico. It is valuable fruit crop besides Mango, Banana and Citrus and cultivated in tropical and sub-tropical areas. India is the major producer of Guava in the world. Total area and production of guava in India during 2019-20 was 292 MH and 4361 MT (AGRICOOP, 2020) respectively. Uttar Pradesh is the leading producing state in India.\r\n“The fruit consists of 20% peel, 50% flesh and seed core. Guava fruit contains 74-84% moisture, 13-26% dry matter, 0.8-1.5% protein, 0.4-0.7% fat and 0.5-1.0% ash and the fruit is considered as a fair source of vitamin C (299 mg/100 g) and pectin (1.15%). The fruit has an appreciable amount of minerals such as phosphorus (23-37 mg/100 g), calcium (14-30 mg/100 g), iron (0.6-1.4 mg/100 g) as well as vitamins like niacin, thiamine, riboflavin and vitamin A” (Bal et al., 2014). Guava is nutritious, flavorful and juicy fruit with total soluble solid content ranges from 8.2 to 10.4° brix. Sucrose, glucose and fructose are the primary sugars in ripe guava fruits. Fructose (59% approx.) and sucrose are the main sugars in green ripe fruits and fully ripe fruits respectively.\r\nPost-harvest losses significantly occur in guava. The fruit is consumed fresh or in processed form such as jam, jelly, juice, puree, concentrate, nectar etc. The processing reduces the post-harvest losses and add values to the fruit and generate more income (Bons and Dhawan, 2006; Sandhu et al., 2001).\r\n“Nectar is one of the fortifying beverage having zero carbonation, with few preservatives and good source of important vitamins and minerals. Guava can be processed to nectar for healthy drinks and allow it to consume for an extended period with increased self-life during the off season” (Choudhary et. al., 2008). “Preparation of guava nectar is very simple having at least 20% fruit juice/pulp and 15% total soluble solids and also about 0.3% citric acid. Nectar is not diluted before serving” (Bal et al., 2014). \r\n18-20 % guava pulp, 15 % TSS and 0.3 % acidity of is suitable for nectar preparation and storage, refrigerated storage extends the storage life. Changes in TSS, Acidity, Sugars and pH usually starts after 30 days of storage (Meghwal et al., 2017; Ahmed et al., 2016; Bal et al., 2014). The acidity, TSS increases while ascorbic acid, pH, TSS/acid ratio, pectin content and organoleptic score usually decreases during two months of room storage (Anupam et al., 2016; Kuchi et al., 2014; Bal et al., 2014; Byanna and Gowda, 2012). 600-800 ppm of sodium benzoate ensures best retention of quality of guava juices for colored pulp varieties (Piyush et al., 2015). Karanjalker et al., 2013 suggested 70 % guava nectar and 30 % soymilk provides good amount of ascorbic acid, protein and better organoleptic score. Jain and Asati (2004) indicated Allahabad Safeda and Lucknow-43 are good varieties for guava processing.\r\nVarious guava cultivars such as Shweta, L-49, Lalit, Gwalior-27 etc. possess important role in processing including nectar. Beside this Lalit has appealing pink colour pulp, becomes valuable cultivar for processing. These cultivars as a sole or in combinations of their pulp for preparation of nectar can be utilized which can give different better-quality nectar. Hence, the experiment has been performed to evaluate the effect of pulp percentage of cultivars and storage period on physico-chemical and organoleptic aspects of guava nectar.\r\nMATERIALS AND METHODS\r\nThe experiment was conducted in thePost-Harvest Laboratory, Department of Horticulture, College of Agriculture, Rajmata VijayarajeScindia Krishi Vishwa Vidyalaya, Gwalior (M.P.) during the year 2018-19.\r\nTreatment Details: T1-G-27(100% Pulp), T2-Lalit (100%Pulp), T3-L-49 (100% Pulp), T4-Shweta (100% Pulp), T5-G-27 + Lalit (50%+50% Pulp), T6-G-27 + L-49(50% + 50% Pulp), T7-G-27 +Shweta (50%+50% Pulp), T8-Lalit +L-49 (50%+50% Pulp), T9-Lalit +Shweta (50%+50% Pulp), T10-G-27+Shweta+L-49 (33. 33 %+ 33. 33% +33. 33% Pulp), T11-G-27+ Shweta + Lalit (33.33%+33.33%+33.33% Pulp) and T12-G-27+L-49 + Lalit + Shweta (25% + 25% + 25% + 25% Pulp).\r\nPreparation of Guava nectar: In winter season, fresh fully mature and even size, free from physical injuries, damages and microbial attacked fruits of four Guava cv. Gwalior–27, Lalit, L-49 and Shweta were taken from the orchard. Before using fruits for nectar preparation, they were washed under tap water removing dirt & dust particles from the surface and were surface dried.\r\nExtraction of pulp was done with the help of pulper machine and sieved through 1 mm stainless steel sieve. The quantity of pulp, sugar, citric acid, preservative (KMS@2 mg/lit) and water were calculated. Syrup of sugar, citric acid in water was prepared and stirred thoroughly, cooled and filtered through muslin cloth and then pulp was added as per ratio provided under treatments. After pasteurization of nectar, preservative (KMS@2 mg/lit) was added and cooled at room temperature. Prepared guava nectar filled in sterilized clean bottles of half liter capacity, bottle was capped and stored in dry place at room temperature. The nectar for physico-chemical and organoleptic assessment were observed at 0, 30, 60, and 90 days of storage.\r\nPhysico-chemical evaluation.\r\nTSS: It was recorded via hand refractometer (Erma, Japan) of range 0-32 °Brix. Three readings were recorded and average values represented in °Brix.\r\nTitratable acidity: The titratable acidity was analyzed by titrating aliquot against 0.1N NaOH solution using phenolphthalein indicator till light pink colour is visible and reading recorded for acidity estimation (Ranganna 1986).\r\nAscorbic acid: To estimate ascorbic acid, the titrimetric indophenol method was adopted (Ranganna 1986).\r\nTotal sugars: Total sugars were estimated byLane and Eynonmethod (Ranganna 1986).\r\npH: It was recorded using Elico digital pH meter.\r\nSensory analysis. The sensory parameters of nectar stored under ambient temperature viz., colour, flavour, taste and overall acceptability were assessed at 30 days intervals from first day to 90th day with the help ten trained panelists based on 9-pointhedonic rating scale with maximum score considered as the best (Ranganna 1986).\r\nStatistical analyses. The data were analyzed by completely randomized design suggested by Panse and Sukhatme, (1967). The treatment significance was tested by ‘F’ test at 5% level of probability.\r\nRESULTS AND DISCUSSION\r\nBiochemical changes in guava nectar during storage\r\nTotal soluble solids (°Brix). TSS was found positively correlated with increasing the storage period (0 to 90 days) of nectar (Fig. 1). Maximum reading of TSS were recorded in treatment T2 (16.23%, 17.06%, 17.13% and 17.33%) followed by T5 (16.17%, 16.36%, 16.53%, and 16.80%) at all four stages (0, 30, 60, and 90 days) of storage respectively. But minimum value was recorded at 0 days in T12 (14.60%), at 30 days in T3 and at 60 & 90 days in T4 (15.67%).\r\n“The increasement of TSS in nectar during storage was probably due to conversion of left-over polysaccharides into soluble sugars and formation of water-soluble pectin from protopectin”. Similar findings are also recorded by Jain et al. (2011); Kumari and Sandal (2011); Jakhar et al. (2012); Byanna and Doreyappa Gowda (2012b); and Byanna et al. (2013). \r\nAcidity (%). Acidity percent of guava nectar increased with storage time (Fig. 2). However, the maximum acidity was recorded in T2 and T5 at 0, 30, 60 and 90 days of storage. Acidity was maximum in treatment T2 (0.38%, 0.49%, 0.55% and 0.69%) followed by T5 (0.37%, 0.47%, 0.53% and 0.67%) at all four stages (0, 30, 60, and 90 days) of storage respectively. But minimum value was recorded at 0 days in T3, T4 and T9 (0.28%), at 30 days in T9 (0.35%), at 60 days in T3 (0.48%) and at 90 days in T1 (0.53%). \r\n“The increase in acidity of nectar during storage might be due to formation of organic acids by ascorbic acid degradation as well as progressive decrease in the pectin content. It is also due to formation of acids from sugar”. Similar results were reported by Nidhi et al. (2008); Balaswamy et al. (2010); Shankara Swamy and Banik (2011); Jakhar et al. (2013); Bal et al. (2014).\r\nAscorbic acid (mg/100ml). Ascorbic acid content in guava nectar of all the treatments showed negative correlation with increasing storage time from 0 to 90 days. The treatment T2 and T5 recorded significantly maximum ascorbic acid, while minimum noted in treatment T1 at 0, 30, 60 and 90 days after storage. Maximum ascorbic acid content was found in treatment T2 (18.29 mg, 18.24 mg, 18.07 mg, and 17.80 mg) followed by T5 (17.91 mg, 17.54 mg, 17.46 mg and 17.05 mg) while minimum value of ascorbic acid was noted in treatment T1 (14.11 mg, 13.45 mg, 13.18 mg and 12.64 mg) at all four stages (0, 30, 60, and 90 days) of storage respectively (Fig. 3).\r\n“This reduction might be due to oxidation of ascorbic acid into dehydro-ascorbic acid by oxygen. These losses of ascorbic acid were attributed to the effect of processing, storage time and exposure to light”. Similar findings were recorded by Tiwari (2000); Divya (2009); Nilugin (2010); Kumari and Sandal (2011); Byanna and Doreyappa Gowda (2012b); Jakhar et al. (2013); Malav et al. (2014). \r\npH value: As per the data analyzed, pH value of nectar decreased with advancement of storage time (0 to 90 days) (Fig. 4). The treatment T2 and T5 recorded significantly maximum pH value, while minimum noted in treatment T1 at 0, 30, 60 and 90 days of storage. Maximum pH was found in treatment T2 (3.40, 3.28, 3.25 and 3.23) followed by T5 (3.39, 3.26, 3.23 and 3.22) while minimum pH value was noted in treatment T1 (3.23, 3.14, 3.13 and 3.12) at all four stages (0, 30, 60, and 90 days) of storage respectively. The differences between all other treatments were found statistically at par. \r\nReduction of pH is due to increase in titratable acidity with storage time. These findings are the similar to the findings of Nilugin (2010); Shankara Swamy and Banik (2011); Kumari and Sandal (2011); Byanna et al. (2013).\r\nTotal sugar (%). Data showed in the Fig. 5 depicts that total sugar content of nectar have positive correlation with increasing storage period. Maximum reading of total sugar was observed in treatment T2 (13.34%, 13.47%, 13.70% and 13.90%) followed by T5 (13.18%, 13.37%, 13.49%, and 13.81%) at all four stages (0, 30, 60, and 90 days) of storage respectively. But minimum value of total sugar was recorded at 0 days in T8 (12.13%), at 30 and 90 days in T6 (12.34% and 12.76 %) and at 60 in treatment T12 (12.41%).\r\n“The variation in different fractions of sugar might be due to hydrolysis of polysaccharides like starch, pectin and inversion of non-reducing sugar into reducing sugar, as increase in reducing sugar was co-related with the decrease in non-reducing sugar. The increased level of total sugar was probably due to conversion of starch and pectin into simple sugars”. Similar results were reported by Tripathi et al. (1992); Choudhary et al. (2006) in guava nectar.\r\nOrganoleptic evaluation of guava nectar. Colour: Colour represent the quality of nectar and presence of natural pigments in it. Among the all-recipe combination colour value showed decreasing trend with increasing storage period. However, the maximum colour reading was noted out in T2 and T5 at 0, 30, 60 and 90 days of storage (Fig. 6). It was found maximum in treatment T2 out of 10 were(8.53, 7.87, 7.77 and 6.87) followed by T5 (8.43, 7.80, 7.73 and 6.63)at all four stages (0, 30, 60, and 90 days) of storage respectively. But minimum value was recorded at 0, 30, and 60 days in T6 (6.87, 6.60 and 6.27 respectively), and at 90 days in T10 (4.77). \r\nDecreasing trend in colour value with increasing storage period might be due to “the action of acidity which enhances the hydrolytic reaction causes browning, acid also enhances the Millard reaction and caramelization which causes more browning in product. Polyphenolic compound present in fruit pulp also reacts with enzymes to get discoloration”. These findings are in accordance with Nilugin (2010); Balaswamy et al. (2010); Jakhar et al. (2012); Byanna and Doreyappa Gowda (2012a); Jakhar et al. (2013); Pasupuleti et al. (2014).\r\nFlavour: The mean score recorded for flavour of different treatments at 0, 30, 60 and 90 days revealed that score of flavour continuously reduced with increasing storage period in all treatments (Fig. 7). However, it was found maximum in treatment T2 out of 10 were (8.70, 8.33, 7.70 and 7.50) followed by T5 (8.67, 8.10, 7.60 and 7.30) at all four stages (0, 30, 60, and 90 days) of storage respectively. Whereas, the minimum mean score flavour was recorded at 0 days in the treatment T12 (7.56), at 30 days in T9 (6.90), at 60 and 90 days in T3 (6.23 and 5.53 respectively). \r\nSignificantly, “decreasing in the reading of the flavour during storage due to reaction of acids with the product and it also may be due to the slight fermentation of nectar and production of unpleasant volatile gases”. These findings are in agreement with the findings of Kannan and SusheelaThirumaran (2004); Nilugin (2010); Balaswamy et al. (2010); Jakhar et al. (2012); Byanna and Doreyappa Gowda (2012a); Byanna and Doreyappa Gowda (2012b); Jakhar et al. (2013); Pasupuleti and Kulkarni (2014).\r\nTaste: Mean score for taste of all treatments were negatively correlated with increasing time of storage (Fig. 8). The maximum mean for taste score was recorded in T2 were(8.87, 8.73, 7.90 and 7.67) followed by T5 (8.80, 8.17, 7.73 and 7.33)at all four stages (0, 30, 60, and 90 days) of storage respectively. But minimum mean score of taste was recorded at 0 and 30 days in the treatment T7 (7.27 and 7.20), at 60 days in T1 (6.47) and at 90 days in T4 (5.77). \r\n“It may be due to more pulp percentage and the physico-chemical constituent of fresh guava pulp. This could be caused by development of acidity and caramelization”. Both of these are negative to taste Nilugin (2010); Jakhar et al. (2012); Jakhar et al. (2013) reported the same results.\r\nOverall acceptability. The mean score for overall acceptability of all the treatments revealed that it was continuously lowered up to 90 days of storage (Fig. 9). However, it was found maximum in treatment T2 (8.67, 7.90, 7.80 and 7.70) followed by T5 (8.47, 7.67, 7.17 and 7.03) at all four stages of storage respectively. But the minimum mean score of overall acceptability was recorded at 0 and 60 days in the treatment T9 (7.20 and 5.33), at 30 days in T1 (6.23) and at 90 days in T8 (5.27). \r\n“It may be due to non-enzymatic and oxidative reaction which deteriorate the scores of colour, flavour as well as taste”. These findings are similar to that of Nilugin (2010); Balaswamy et al. (2010); Shankara Swamy and Banik (2011); Kumari and Sandal (2011); Jakhar et al., (2012); Byanna and Doreyappa Gowda (2012a); Byanna and Doreyappa Gowda (2012b). \r\n','Poonam, P.K.S. Gurjar, Rajesh Lekhi, Shubham Singh Rathour and Shubham Bhadoriya and Pushpendra Rajput (2022). Evaluation of Quality Attributes and Storage Studies of Guava Nectar. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 14(1): 1772-1778.'),(4654,'130','Comparative modeling and analysis of 3-D structure of Hsp 70,\r\nin Cancer irroratus','Barneet Singh, Ashish Gupta and Sharada M. Potukuchi','1 Barneet.pdf','',1,'The present study was undertaken to predict the 3-D structure of heat shock protein/s (Hsp/s) from\r\nCancer irroratus, a crab belonging to the family Cancridae. Hsps are a class of functionally related proteins\r\nwhose expression is increased when cells are exposed to elevated temperatures or other stresses like starvation,\r\nhypoxia, etc. The structural template for Hsp was identified from structural database using homology modelling\r\nor comparative modelling approach. Based on the knowledge of the template, a 3-D model was predicted and\r\nprocessed through energy minimization, Ramachandran plot analysis and quality assessment. The sequence\r\npredicted has been deposited into PMDB having ID PM0075773','Modeller, Protein Model Database, RAM-Page, Errat, Swissprot, dope score, alignment','In silico study of proteins and nucleic acids are helpful\r\nin almost all research fields. It not only saves money but\r\nalso valuable time. This model may be further used in\r\ncharacterizing the protein in further wet laboratory\r\nexperimentations.','INTRODUCTION\r\nCancer irroratus (Atlantic rock crab), belongs to the\r\nkingdom Animalia and family Cancridae. It usually occurs\r\non the eastern coast of North America, from Labrador to\r\nFlorida and lives in the benthic zone of the ocean (Ristvey\r\nand Rebach, 1999). Cancer irroratus does not remain in\r\none spot for too long. As a scavenger it is extremely mobile.\r\nTheir main method of defense is to pinch if provoked\r\n(Gosner, 1978). This species of crabs is known to possess a\r\nprotein Hsp 70 which show an upregulation on exposure to\r\ndifferent kinds of environmental stress conditions, such as\r\ninfection, inflammation, exercise, exposure of the cell to toxins\r\n(ethanol, arsenic, trace metals and ultraviolet light, among\r\nmany others), starvation, hypoxia (oxygen deprivation),\r\nnitrogen deficiency (in plants), and amino acid analogues\r\n(De Maio A, 1999).\r\nThe protein Hsp 70 is named according to its molecular\r\nweight, for example, Hsp60, Hsp70 and Hsp90 refer to\r\nfamilies of heat shock proteins on the order of 60, 70 and\r\n90 kilodaltons in size, respectively (Li Z et al., 2004). The\r\nsynthesis of Hsp is induced when environmental variation\r\nperturbs the organism’s physiological system to the extent\r\nthat its proteins denature. Under such environmental\r\nconditions, Hsps and other molecular chaperones stabilize\r\ndenaturing proteins, refold reversibly denatured proteins, and\r\nfacilitate the degradation of irreversibly denatured proteins\r\n(Lindquist, 1986; Lindquist and Craig, 1988; Parsell and\r\nLindquist, 1994). The main reason for choosing this protein\r\nwas its role as a temperature stress indicator in virtually all\r\nspecies, from bacteria to humans. HSF-1 is the major\r\nregulator of Hsp 70 transcription in eukaryotes. In the\r\nabsence of cellular stress, HSF-1 is inhibited by association\r\nwith Hsps and is therefore not active. Cellular stresses, such\r\nas increased temperature, can cause proteins in the cell to\r\nmisfold. Hsps bind to the misfolded proteins and dissociate\r\nfrom HSF-1. This allows HSF-1 to form trimers and\r\ntranslocate to the cell nucleus and activate transcription\r\n(Prahlad et al., 2008).\r\nExperiments performed on Antarctic Crustaceans( Rock\r\nCrabs) compared the AMPK activity and Hsp 70 protein\r\nlevels at 2°C increments and it was found that Hsp 70 started\r\nto increase at 28°C; the crabs’ critical temperature (the\r\ntemperature at which the animals switch to anaerobic\r\nmetabolism due to heat stress). AMPK activity was found\r\nto steadily increase above 18°C revealing that the crabs\r\nwere already heat stressed at this temperature revealing their\r\nbehavior threshold. (Frederich et al., 2009).\r\nHomology modeling, also known as comparative\r\nmodeling of protein refers to constructing an atomic\r\nresolution model of the “target” protein from its amino acid\r\nsequence and an experimental 3-D structure of a related\r\nhomologous protein “template”. Homology modeling relies\r\non the identification of one or more known protein structures\r\nlikely to resemble the structure of the query sequence, and\r\non the production of an alignment that maps residues in\r\nthe query sequence to residues in the template sequence.\r\nThe sequence alignment and template structure are then\r\nused to produce a structural model of the target\r\n(Marti-Renom et. al., 2000).The understanding of the 3-D\r\nstructure of a protein would be a precious aid to understand\r\nthe details of a particular protein. The main objective of this\r\nstudy is an attempt to predict the structural information of\r\nHsp 70 from Cancer irroratus, which is produced in\r\nComparative modeling and analysis of 3-D structure of Hsp 70,\r\nin Cancer irroratus\r\nBarneet Singh, Ashish Gupta and Sharada M. Potukuchi\r\nSchool of Biotechnology, Shri Mata Vaishno Devi University, Katra (J&K), INDIA\r\nABSTRACT : The present study was undertaken to predict the 3-D structure of heat shock protein/s (Hsp/s) from\r\nCancer irroratus, a crab belonging to the family Cancridae. Hsps are a class of functionally related proteins\r\nwhose expression is increased when cells are exposed to elevated temperatures or other stresses like starvation,\r\nhypoxia, etc. The structural template for Hsp was identified from structural database using homology modelling\r\nor comparative modelling approach. Based on the knowledge of the template, a 3-D model was predicted and\r\nprocessed through energy minimization, Ramachandran plot analysis and quality assessment. The sequence\r\npredicted has been deposited into PMDB having ID PM0075773.\r\nKeywords : Modeller, Protein Model Database, RAM-Page, Errat, Swissprot, dope score, alignment\r\nBiological Forum – An International Journal, Forum — An International Journal, 1(21)(:1 1):-41(220-0197) (2009) ISSN : 0975-1130\r\n2 Singh, Gupta and Potukuchi\r\nincreased amounts during stress conditions.\r\nMATERIAL AND METHOD\r\nRetrieval of Cancer irroratus –Hsp 70 Protein\r\nsequence. The protein sequence of Hsp 70 in Cancer\r\nirroratus was retrieved from the Swissprot database (http:/\r\n/www.expasy.org) and taken as target sequence. An extensive\r\nsearched revealed that the 3-D structure of this protein was\r\nnot available in any structural databases. Hence, the current\r\nstudy of developing the 3-D structure of Hsp 70 from Cancer\r\nirroratus was undertaken.\r\nSelection of Structural Template. An effort was made\r\nto find a suitable structural homolog or template for the\r\nmodeling of Hsp 70. A structural template was obtained from\r\nprotein BLAST (Altschul et al., 1990) and it used Protein\r\nData Bank (Berman et al., 2003) as reference for identifying\r\nthe closely related sequences.\r\nTarget-Template Alignment. The protein sequence of\r\nHsp 70 was aligned with its corresponding template by using\r\nalign-2D module in MODELLER 9V5 (Eswar et al., 2008),\r\nwhich required two files, one containing target sequence\r\nand another the structural coordinates of template. This step\r\nis essential to identify the common conserved residues or\r\nactive residues present in both the sequences.\r\nModel Building. MODELLER 9V5 was used to predict\r\nthe 3-D structure of Hsp 70 using model-single.py based on\r\nsatisfaction of spatial restraints. It is a python script, used\r\nto predict the 3-D model from single template. Theoretical\r\nmodel was subjected into Swiss-PDB Viewer (Kaplan and\r\nLittlejohn, 2001) for energy minimization using the steepest\r\ndescent and conjugate gradient technique to correct the\r\nstereochemistry of the model. Computational analysis was\r\ncarried out in vacuum with the GROMOS96 43b1 parameters\r\nset, without reaction field in Swiss-PDB Viewer.\r\nModel Evaluation. The refined model obtained was\r\nsubjected to a series of tests for testing its internal stability\r\nand reliability. Backbone conformation of the refined model\r\nwas assessed by the examination of the Psi/Phi\r\nRamachandran plot obtained from RAMPAGE web server\r\n(Lovell et al., 2003). Errat web server (Colovos and Yeates,\r\n1993) was used to explore the statistics of non-bonded\r\ninteractions between different atom types to plot the graph.\r\nRESULTS AND DISCUSSION\r\nThe amino acid sequence of Hsp 70 was retrieved from\r\ncommonly used primary protein sequence database i.e.\r\nSwissprot (http://www.expasy.org) and the accession number\r\nwas ACL13566 and the source was of Cancer irroratus.\r\nThe results of Protein Blast (http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov)\r\nsearch for suitable template structure related that the target\r\nsequence, Hsp 70 showed Chain A , structural basis of the\r\n70-kilodalton heat shock cognate protein ATP hydrolytic\r\nactivity, Ii. structure of the active site with ADP or ATP\r\nbound to wild type and mutant ATPase fragment with\r\nhighest sequence similarity (78%), as the most suitable\r\ntemplate for modelling (PDB ID: 1NGD ). The alignment of\r\nHsp 70 and its corresponding template was carefully\r\nexamined and conserved regions were identified and it was\r\nconcluded that this alignment can be assisted to generate a\r\n3-D model. Jalview (Clamp et al., 2004) was used to display\r\nFig. 1. Graphical representation of sequence alignment of both target [Hsp 70] and template [1NGDA]. Various conserved regions\r\nwith highlighted 100% conserved residues.\r\nSingh, Gupta and Potukuchi 3\r\nthe conserved regions in graphical representation. (Fig. 1).\r\nOnce target-template alignment was completed, a 3-D\r\nstructure of Hsp 70, was predicted using the program\r\nMODELLER 9V5 produced twenty different conformations\r\nand the dope score in increasing order of Model 3 , model\r\n8, model 18, model 4 were –11700.68359, –11580.00879,\r\n–11489.75684, –11406.33887 respectively,\r\nModel 3 had lowest value compared to others and\r\nprocessed into Swiss- PDB Viewer for energy minimization.\r\nWith the help of align2d.py file, length of alignment was\r\nfound to be 378. The expect value shown in the BLAST\r\nresult of the protein was found to be 4e-79 and the score\r\nwas shown to be 289 bits (739).\r\nAn assessment of the refined model involved two\r\nindependent tests. The first test was to compare the residue\r\nbackbone conformations in our refined model with the\r\nreferred values obtained from Protein Data Bank of known\r\nstructures. The results of SAVES server Procheck (http://\r\nnihserver.mbi.ucla.edu/SAVES/) indicated that 91.9% residues\r\nwere found to be in the most favoured region of the\r\nRamachandran Plot of refined model of Hsp 70 which is\r\nmore than cut-off of 90% in most reliable models (Lovell et\r\nal., 2003) (Fig. 2). The stereochemical quality of the predicted\r\nmodel was found to be satisfactory and low percentage of\r\nresidues having phi/psi angles in the outlier region. A 3-D\r\nstructure of Hsp 70 is shown (Fig. 3).\r\nResidues in most favoured regions 147 91.9%\r\n[A,B,L]\r\nResidues in additional allowed 9 5.7%\r\nregions [a,b,l,p]\r\nResidues in generously allowed 2 1.2%\r\nregions [~a,~b,~l,~p]\r\nResidues in disallowed regions 2 1.2%\r\nNumber of non-glycine and\r\nnon-proline residues 160 100.0%\r\nNumber of end-residues (excl. Gly and Pro) 2\r\nNumber of glycine residues\r\n(shown as triangles) 11\r\nNumber of proline residues 5\r\nTotal number of residues 178\r\nFig. 2. Plot generated by Procheck (3.0).Ramachandran plot of\r\nmodel 3 of Hsp 70.\r\nFig. 3. The final three-dimensional structural representation of\r\nHsp 70 [PyMOL] generated by MODELLER 9v5 Program.\r\nThe second test was carried out using Errat web server\r\n(http://nihserver.mbi.ucla.edu/ERRATv2/) to check the quality\r\nof models. Generally, the quality factor of high resolution\r\nstructures produces values around 90% or higher (Colovos\r\nand Yeates, 1993). Here, the overall quality factor of the\r\nrefined model (58.462) was predicted from Errat. The\r\nevaluated final reliable model has been deposited into Protein\r\nModel Database (http://mi.caspur.it/PMDB/) and is now\r\npublicly accessible [PMDB ID: PM0075773].','Barneet Singh, Ashish Gupta and Sharada M. Potukuchi (2009). Comparative modeling and analysis of 3-D structure of Hsp 70,\r\nin Cancer irroratus'),(4655,'130','Effects of PSB (Phosphate Solubilizing Bacteria) on morphological\r\ncharacters of Lens culinaris Medic.','Monika Kumari, Dheeraj Vasu, Anita Sharma, Zia Ul-Hasan and Umesh Kumar Dhurwe','2 monika @ ANITA SHARMA VOL 2009B.pdf','',1,'An experiment was conducted during winter seasons on morphological characters of Lentil (Lens\r\nculinaris Medic.) enoculated with PSB. PSB (10gm, 20gm and 30gm) in 2Kg of soil and one control. In variety\r\nNDL-92 with the application of PSB plant height/plant increases from control. In JL-3 variety plant Height/Plant\r\nincreases with the treatment of PSB as compared to control number of Branches/Plant in NDL-92 variety increases\r\nwith the inoculation of PSB and in control number of Branches/Plant are less than of JL-3 variety with the\r\nincrease of PSB number of Branches per plant increase as compared to control. Number of Flowers per plant is\r\nmore in both variety JL-3 and NDL-92 inoculated with PSB as compared to control. Number of Pods per plant are\r\nmore in both varieties JL-3 and NDL-92 inoculated as compared to control. Dry weight/plant is more in inoculated\r\nJL-3 and NDL-92 plants as compared to control.','PSB, Lens culinaris, JL-3 and NDL-92','An experiment was conducted during winter seasons on morphological characters of Lentil (Lens\r\nculinaris Medic.) enoculated with PSB. PSB (10gm, 20gm and 30gm) in 2Kg of soil and one control. In variety\r\nNDL-92 with the application of PSB plant height/plant increases from control. In JL-3 variety plant Height/Plant\r\nincreases with the treatment of PSB as compared to control number of Branches/Plant in NDL-92 variety increases\r\nwith the inoculation of PSB and in control number of Branches/Plant are less than of JL-3 variety with the\r\nincrease of PSB number of Branches per plant increase as compared to control. Number of Flowers per plant is\r\nmore in both variety JL-3 and NDL-92 inoculated with PSB as compared to control. Number of Pods per plant are\r\nmore in both varieties JL-3 and NDL-92 inoculated as compared to control. Dry weight/plant is more in inoculated\r\nJL-3 and NDL-92 plants as compared to control.','INTRODUCTION\r\nBiofertilizers are gaining importance as they are\r\necofriendly, non-hazardous and non-toxic (Sharma et al;\r\n2007). A substantial number of bacterial species, mostly\r\nthose associated with the plant rhizosphere, may exert a\r\nbeneficial effect upon plant growth (Valverde et al., 2006).\r\nBiofertilizers include mainly the nitrogen fixing, phosphate\r\nsolubilizing and plant growth promoting microorganism\r\n(El-Khawas, 2003; Geol et al., 1999). Phosphate transformation\r\nis influenced by soil microorganisms and thus influence the\r\nsubsequent availability of phosphate to plant roots\r\n(Richardson, 2001). Biofertilizers are useful to reduce the\r\npollution rate of soil and water (El-Assiouty and Abo Sedera,\r\n2005). Phosphorous is abundant in soil both organic and\r\ninorganic forms it is frequently major or a prime factor for\r\nplant growth (Sahi et al., 2007). Numbers of bacterial species\r\nare able to make beneficial effort upon plant growth.\r\nPhosphate solubilizing bacteria e.g. Pseudomonas, Bacillus,\r\nEnterobacter, Azospirillum and Rhizobium etc. are called\r\nRhizobacteria because they are related to rhizosphere of the\r\nplant. Rhizobacteria are bacteria that aggressively colonize\r\nthe plant roots (Antoun, 2003). Plant growth promoting\r\nrhizobacteria (PGPR) are a very small portion of rhizobacteria\r\n(2-5%) that promote plant growth (Antoun and Kloepper,\r\n2001). Seed pods and test weight were also significantly\r\nhigher with Rhizobium inoculation over no inoculation\r\nKumawat et al., 2003). According to Vasu and Hasan (2009)\r\nthe treatment of radiomimetic agents like EMS and MMS\r\nincreases plant height and number of pods per plant in\r\nTrigonella.\r\nLentil crops are able to fix atmospheric nitrogen and\r\nenrich the soil with nitrogen when include in different crop\r\nrotations practices by farmer (Shah et al., 2000). Crops of\r\nphosphorus yield higher when their needs for phosphorus\r\nmet judiciously (Singh et al., 1991). India contributing 25%\r\nof global production of pulses (Ali and Kumar, 2005). In\r\n1998-99, Lentil was grown over an area of 3.404 million\r\nhectares in the world, 35.25 % being occupied by India\r\n(Anonymous, 1997, Sahi et al., 2000). This crop is valued as\r\na high protein source and for its residues (Hoque et al.,\r\n2002) Phosphorous is added to pulses to ensures good\r\nsymbiotic performance and overall plant growth (Deol et al.,\r\n2005). Lentil is an important pulse crop of Indian continent\r\n(Solanki and Sharma, 2002). This crop is valued as a high\r\nprotein source residues are used for animal feedings (Mishra\r\net al., 2001).\r\nMATERIAL AND METHOD\r\nLens culinaris seeds of known varieties NDL-92 and\r\nJL-3 of central India procured from Seed Corporation of India,\r\nNew Market Bhopal. Five hundred dry healthy seeds with\r\naverage moisture content of each variety selected from\r\nmacrosperma Lentil.\r\nBio-fertilizers. In this study Biofertilizer PSB is used.\r\nBiofertilizer was took from Agro Industries in Inderpuri,\r\nBhopal (M.P.) about 10 gm, 20 gm and 30 gm of PSB mixed\r\nwith 2Kg soil was used in these three treatment and one\r\ncontrol will be taken for the morphological characters.\r\nTreatment with Phosphate Solubilizing Bacteria\r\nSoil is treated with PSB in two years 100 seeds are\r\nsown in the inoculated soil with 10 gm, 20 gm and 30gm of\r\nPSB.\r\nSeeds will be sown in the pots with treated soil to\r\nstudy the morphological characters.\r\nRESULTS AND DISCUSSION\r\nTable-1 and Table-2 data showed the morphological\r\ncharacters of Lens Culinaris Medic. By the treatment of\r\nbiofertilizer PSB (Phosphate solubilizing bacteria) in different\r\ndoses to NDL-92 and JL-3 varieties','Monika Kumari, Dheeraj Vasu, Anita Sharma, Zia Ul-Hasan and Umesh Kumar Dhurwe (2009). Effects of PSB (Phosphate Solubilizing Bacteria) on morphological characters of Lens culinaris Medic.Biological Forum – An International Journal, Forum — An International Journal, 1(21)(:1 5):-71.'),(4656,'130','Effects of PSB (Phosphate Solubilizing Bacteria) on morphological\r\ncharacters of Lens culinaris Medic.','Monika Kumari, Dheeraj Vasu, Anita Sharma, Zia Ul-Hasan and Umesh Kumar Dhurwe','2 monika @ ANITA SHARMA VOL 2009B.pdf','',1,'An experiment was conducted during winter seasons on morphological characters of Lentil (Lens\r\nculinaris Medic.) enoculated with PSB. PSB (10gm, 20gm and 30gm) in 2Kg of soil and one control. In variety\r\nNDL-92 with the application of PSB plant height/plant increases from control. In JL-3 variety plant Height/Plant\r\nincreases with the treatment of PSB as compared to control number of Branches/Plant in NDL-92 variety increases\r\nwith the inoculation of PSB and in control number of Branches/Plant are less than of JL-3 variety with the\r\nincrease of PSB number of Branches per plant increase as compared to control. Number of Flowers per plant is\r\nmore in both variety JL-3 and NDL-92 inoculated with PSB as compared to control. Number of Pods per plant are\r\nmore in both varieties JL-3 and NDL-92 inoculated as compared to control. Dry weight/plant is more in inoculated\r\nJL-3 and NDL-92 plants as compared to control.','PSB, Lens culinaris, JL-3 and NDL-92','An experiment was conducted during winter seasons on morphological characters of Lentil (Lens\r\nculinaris Medic.) enoculated with PSB. PSB (10gm, 20gm and 30gm) in 2Kg of soil and one control. In variety\r\nNDL-92 with the application of PSB plant height/plant increases from control. In JL-3 variety plant Height/Plant\r\nincreases with the treatment of PSB as compared to control number of Branches/Plant in NDL-92 variety increases\r\nwith the inoculation of PSB and in control number of Branches/Plant are less than of JL-3 variety with the\r\nincrease of PSB number of Branches per plant increase as compared to control. Number of Flowers per plant is\r\nmore in both variety JL-3 and NDL-92 inoculated with PSB as compared to control. Number of Pods per plant are\r\nmore in both varieties JL-3 and NDL-92 inoculated as compared to control. Dry weight/plant is more in inoculated\r\nJL-3 and NDL-92 plants as compared to control.','INTRODUCTION\r\nBiofertilizers are gaining importance as they are\r\necofriendly, non-hazardous and non-toxic (Sharma et al;\r\n2007). A substantial number of bacterial species, mostly\r\nthose associated with the plant rhizosphere, may exert a\r\nbeneficial effect upon plant growth (Valverde et al., 2006).\r\nBiofertilizers include mainly the nitrogen fixing, phosphate\r\nsolubilizing and plant growth promoting microorganism\r\n(El-Khawas, 2003; Geol et al., 1999). Phosphate transformation\r\nis influenced by soil microorganisms and thus influence the\r\nsubsequent availability of phosphate to plant roots\r\n(Richardson, 2001). Biofertilizers are useful to reduce the\r\npollution rate of soil and water (El-Assiouty and Abo Sedera,\r\n2005). Phosphorous is abundant in soil both organic and\r\ninorganic forms it is frequently major or a prime factor for\r\nplant growth (Sahi et al., 2007). Numbers of bacterial species\r\nare able to make beneficial effort upon plant growth.\r\nPhosphate solubilizing bacteria e.g. Pseudomonas, Bacillus,\r\nEnterobacter, Azospirillum and Rhizobium etc. are called\r\nRhizobacteria because they are related to rhizosphere of the\r\nplant. Rhizobacteria are bacteria that aggressively colonize\r\nthe plant roots (Antoun, 2003). Plant growth promoting\r\nrhizobacteria (PGPR) are a very small portion of rhizobacteria\r\n(2-5%) that promote plant growth (Antoun and Kloepper,\r\n2001). Seed pods and test weight were also significantly\r\nhigher with Rhizobium inoculation over no inoculation\r\nKumawat et al., 2003). According to Vasu and Hasan (2009)\r\nthe treatment of radiomimetic agents like EMS and MMS\r\nincreases plant height and number of pods per plant in\r\nTrigonella.\r\nLentil crops are able to fix atmospheric nitrogen and\r\nenrich the soil with nitrogen when include in different crop\r\nrotations practices by farmer (Shah et al., 2000). Crops of\r\nphosphorus yield higher when their needs for phosphorus\r\nmet judiciously (Singh et al., 1991). India contributing 25%\r\nof global production of pulses (Ali and Kumar, 2005). In\r\n1998-99, Lentil was grown over an area of 3.404 million\r\nhectares in the world, 35.25 % being occupied by India\r\n(Anonymous, 1997, Sahi et al., 2000). This crop is valued as\r\na high protein source and for its residues (Hoque et al.,\r\n2002) Phosphorous is added to pulses to ensures good\r\nsymbiotic performance and overall plant growth (Deol et al.,\r\n2005). Lentil is an important pulse crop of Indian continent\r\n(Solanki and Sharma, 2002). This crop is valued as a high\r\nprotein source residues are used for animal feedings (Mishra\r\net al., 2001).\r\nMATERIAL AND METHOD\r\nLens culinaris seeds of known varieties NDL-92 and\r\nJL-3 of central India procured from Seed Corporation of India,\r\nNew Market Bhopal. Five hundred dry healthy seeds with\r\naverage moisture content of each variety selected from\r\nmacrosperma Lentil.\r\nBio-fertilizers. In this study Biofertilizer PSB is used.\r\nBiofertilizer was took from Agro Industries in Inderpuri,\r\nBhopal (M.P.) about 10 gm, 20 gm and 30 gm of PSB mixed\r\nwith 2Kg soil was used in these three treatment and one\r\ncontrol will be taken for the morphological characters.\r\nTreatment with Phosphate Solubilizing Bacteria\r\nSoil is treated with PSB in two years 100 seeds are\r\nsown in the inoculated soil with 10 gm, 20 gm and 30gm of\r\nPSB.\r\nSeeds will be sown in the pots with treated soil to\r\nstudy the morphological characters.\r\nRESULTS AND DISCUSSION\r\nTable-1 and Table-2 data showed the morphological\r\ncharacters of Lens Culinaris Medic. By the treatment of\r\nbiofertilizer PSB (Phosphate solubilizing bacteria) in different\r\ndoses to NDL-92 and JL-3 varieties','Monika Kumari, Dheeraj Vasu, Anita Sharma, Zia Ul-Hasan and Umesh Kumar Dhurwe (2009). Effects of PSB (Phosphate Solubilizing Bacteria) on morphological characters of Lens culinaris Medic.Biological Forum – An International Journal, Forum — An International Journal, 1(21)(:1 5):-71.'),(4657,'130','Comparative modeling and analysis of 3-D structure of Hsp 70,\r\nin Cancer irroratus','Barneet Singh, Ashish Gupta and Sharada M. Potukuchi','1 Barneet.pdf','',1,'The present study was undertaken to predict the 3-D structure of heat shock protein/s (Hsp/s) from\r\nCancer irroratus, a crab belonging to the family Cancridae. Hsps are a class of functionally related proteins\r\nwhose expression is increased when cells are exposed to elevated temperatures or other stresses like starvation,\r\nhypoxia, etc. The structural template for Hsp was identified from structural database using homology modelling\r\nor comparative modelling approach. Based on the knowledge of the template, a 3-D model was predicted and\r\nprocessed through energy minimization, Ramachandran plot analysis and quality assessment. The sequence\r\npredicted has been deposited into PMDB having ID PM0075773','Modeller, Protein Model Database, RAM-Page, Errat, Swissprot, dope score, alignment','In silico study of proteins and nucleic acids are helpful\r\nin almost all research fields. It not only saves money but\r\nalso valuable time. This model may be further used in\r\ncharacterizing the protein in further wet laboratory\r\nexperimentations.','INTRODUCTION\r\nCancer irroratus (Atlantic rock crab), belongs to the\r\nkingdom Animalia and family Cancridae. It usually occurs\r\non the eastern coast of North America, from Labrador to\r\nFlorida and lives in the benthic zone of the ocean (Ristvey\r\nand Rebach, 1999). Cancer irroratus does not remain in\r\none spot for too long. As a scavenger it is extremely mobile.\r\nTheir main method of defense is to pinch if provoked\r\n(Gosner, 1978). This species of crabs is known to possess a\r\nprotein Hsp 70 which show an upregulation on exposure to\r\ndifferent kinds of environmental stress conditions, such as\r\ninfection, inflammation, exercise, exposure of the cell to toxins\r\n(ethanol, arsenic, trace metals and ultraviolet light, among\r\nmany others), starvation, hypoxia (oxygen deprivation),\r\nnitrogen deficiency (in plants), and amino acid analogues\r\n(De Maio A, 1999).\r\nThe protein Hsp 70 is named according to its molecular\r\nweight, for example, Hsp60, Hsp70 and Hsp90 refer to\r\nfamilies of heat shock proteins on the order of 60, 70 and\r\n90 kilodaltons in size, respectively (Li Z et al., 2004). The\r\nsynthesis of Hsp is induced when environmental variation\r\nperturbs the organism’s physiological system to the extent\r\nthat its proteins denature. Under such environmental\r\nconditions, Hsps and other molecular chaperones stabilize\r\ndenaturing proteins, refold reversibly denatured proteins, and\r\nfacilitate the degradation of irreversibly denatured proteins\r\n(Lindquist, 1986; Lindquist and Craig, 1988; Parsell and\r\nLindquist, 1994). The main reason for choosing this protein\r\nwas its role as a temperature stress indicator in virtually all\r\nspecies, from bacteria to humans. HSF-1 is the major\r\nregulator of Hsp 70 transcription in eukaryotes. In the\r\nabsence of cellular stress, HSF-1 is inhibited by association\r\nwith Hsps and is therefore not active. Cellular stresses, such\r\nas increased temperature, can cause proteins in the cell to\r\nmisfold. Hsps bind to the misfolded proteins and dissociate\r\nfrom HSF-1. This allows HSF-1 to form trimers and\r\ntranslocate to the cell nucleus and activate transcription\r\n(Prahlad et al., 2008).\r\nExperiments performed on Antarctic Crustaceans( Rock\r\nCrabs) compared the AMPK activity and Hsp 70 protein\r\nlevels at 2°C increments and it was found that Hsp 70 started\r\nto increase at 28°C; the crabs’ critical temperature (the\r\ntemperature at which the animals switch to anaerobic\r\nmetabolism due to heat stress). AMPK activity was found\r\nto steadily increase above 18°C revealing that the crabs\r\nwere already heat stressed at this temperature revealing their\r\nbehavior threshold. (Frederich et al., 2009).\r\nHomology modeling, also known as comparative\r\nmodeling of protein refers to constructing an atomic\r\nresolution model of the “target” protein from its amino acid\r\nsequence and an experimental 3-D structure of a related\r\nhomologous protein “template”. Homology modeling relies\r\non the identification of one or more known protein structures\r\nlikely to resemble the structure of the query sequence, and\r\non the production of an alignment that maps residues in\r\nthe query sequence to residues in the template sequence.\r\nThe sequence alignment and template structure are then\r\nused to produce a structural model of the target\r\n(Marti-Renom et. al., 2000).The understanding of the 3-D\r\nstructure of a protein would be a precious aid to understand\r\nthe details of a particular protein. The main objective of this\r\nstudy is an attempt to predict the structural information of\r\nHsp 70 from Cancer irroratus, which is produced in\r\nComparative modeling and analysis of 3-D structure of Hsp 70,\r\nin Cancer irroratus\r\nBarneet Singh, Ashish Gupta and Sharada M. Potukuchi\r\nSchool of Biotechnology, Shri Mata Vaishno Devi University, Katra (J&K), INDIA\r\nABSTRACT : The present study was undertaken to predict the 3-D structure of heat shock protein/s (Hsp/s) from\r\nCancer irroratus, a crab belonging to the family Cancridae. Hsps are a class of functionally related proteins\r\nwhose expression is increased when cells are exposed to elevated temperatures or other stresses like starvation,\r\nhypoxia, etc. The structural template for Hsp was identified from structural database using homology modelling\r\nor comparative modelling approach. Based on the knowledge of the template, a 3-D model was predicted and\r\nprocessed through energy minimization, Ramachandran plot analysis and quality assessment. The sequence\r\npredicted has been deposited into PMDB having ID PM0075773.\r\nKeywords : Modeller, Protein Model Database, RAM-Page, Errat, Swissprot, dope score, alignment\r\nBiological Forum – An International Journal, Forum — An International Journal, 1(21)(:1 1):-41(220-0197) (2009) ISSN : 0975-1130\r\n2 Singh, Gupta and Potukuchi\r\nincreased amounts during stress conditions.\r\nMATERIAL AND METHOD\r\nRetrieval of Cancer irroratus –Hsp 70 Protein\r\nsequence. The protein sequence of Hsp 70 in Cancer\r\nirroratus was retrieved from the Swissprot database (http:/\r\n/www.expasy.org) and taken as target sequence. An extensive\r\nsearched revealed that the 3-D structure of this protein was\r\nnot available in any structural databases. Hence, the current\r\nstudy of developing the 3-D structure of Hsp 70 from Cancer\r\nirroratus was undertaken.\r\nSelection of Structural Template. An effort was made\r\nto find a suitable structural homolog or template for the\r\nmodeling of Hsp 70. A structural template was obtained from\r\nprotein BLAST (Altschul et al., 1990) and it used Protein\r\nData Bank (Berman et al., 2003) as reference for identifying\r\nthe closely related sequences.\r\nTarget-Template Alignment. The protein sequence of\r\nHsp 70 was aligned with its corresponding template by using\r\nalign-2D module in MODELLER 9V5 (Eswar et al., 2008),\r\nwhich required two files, one containing target sequence\r\nand another the structural coordinates of template. This step\r\nis essential to identify the common conserved residues or\r\nactive residues present in both the sequences.\r\nModel Building. MODELLER 9V5 was used to predict\r\nthe 3-D structure of Hsp 70 using model-single.py based on\r\nsatisfaction of spatial restraints. It is a python script, used\r\nto predict the 3-D model from single template. Theoretical\r\nmodel was subjected into Swiss-PDB Viewer (Kaplan and\r\nLittlejohn, 2001) for energy minimization using the steepest\r\ndescent and conjugate gradient technique to correct the\r\nstereochemistry of the model. Computational analysis was\r\ncarried out in vacuum with the GROMOS96 43b1 parameters\r\nset, without reaction field in Swiss-PDB Viewer.\r\nModel Evaluation. The refined model obtained was\r\nsubjected to a series of tests for testing its internal stability\r\nand reliability. Backbone conformation of the refined model\r\nwas assessed by the examination of the Psi/Phi\r\nRamachandran plot obtained from RAMPAGE web server\r\n(Lovell et al., 2003). Errat web server (Colovos and Yeates,\r\n1993) was used to explore the statistics of non-bonded\r\ninteractions between different atom types to plot the graph.\r\nRESULTS AND DISCUSSION\r\nThe amino acid sequence of Hsp 70 was retrieved from\r\ncommonly used primary protein sequence database i.e.\r\nSwissprot (http://www.expasy.org) and the accession number\r\nwas ACL13566 and the source was of Cancer irroratus.\r\nThe results of Protein Blast (http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov)\r\nsearch for suitable template structure related that the target\r\nsequence, Hsp 70 showed Chain A , structural basis of the\r\n70-kilodalton heat shock cognate protein ATP hydrolytic\r\nactivity, Ii. structure of the active site with ADP or ATP\r\nbound to wild type and mutant ATPase fragment with\r\nhighest sequence similarity (78%), as the most suitable\r\ntemplate for modelling (PDB ID: 1NGD ). The alignment of\r\nHsp 70 and its corresponding template was carefully\r\nexamined and conserved regions were identified and it was\r\nconcluded that this alignment can be assisted to generate a\r\n3-D model. Jalview (Clamp et al., 2004) was used to display\r\nFig. 1. Graphical representation of sequence alignment of both target [Hsp 70] and template [1NGDA]. Various conserved regions\r\nwith highlighted 100% conserved residues.\r\nSingh, Gupta and Potukuchi 3\r\nthe conserved regions in graphical representation. (Fig. 1).\r\nOnce target-template alignment was completed, a 3-D\r\nstructure of Hsp 70, was predicted using the program\r\nMODELLER 9V5 produced twenty different conformations\r\nand the dope score in increasing order of Model 3 , model\r\n8, model 18, model 4 were –11700.68359, –11580.00879,\r\n–11489.75684, –11406.33887 respectively,\r\nModel 3 had lowest value compared to others and\r\nprocessed into Swiss- PDB Viewer for energy minimization.\r\nWith the help of align2d.py file, length of alignment was\r\nfound to be 378. The expect value shown in the BLAST\r\nresult of the protein was found to be 4e-79 and the score\r\nwas shown to be 289 bits (739).\r\nAn assessment of the refined model involved two\r\nindependent tests. The first test was to compare the residue\r\nbackbone conformations in our refined model with the\r\nreferred values obtained from Protein Data Bank of known\r\nstructures. The results of SAVES server Procheck (http://\r\nnihserver.mbi.ucla.edu/SAVES/) indicated that 91.9% residues\r\nwere found to be in the most favoured region of the\r\nRamachandran Plot of refined model of Hsp 70 which is\r\nmore than cut-off of 90% in most reliable models (Lovell et\r\nal., 2003) (Fig. 2). The stereochemical quality of the predicted\r\nmodel was found to be satisfactory and low percentage of\r\nresidues having phi/psi angles in the outlier region. A 3-D\r\nstructure of Hsp 70 is shown (Fig. 3).\r\nResidues in most favoured regions 147 91.9%\r\n[A,B,L]\r\nResidues in additional allowed 9 5.7%\r\nregions [a,b,l,p]\r\nResidues in generously allowed 2 1.2%\r\nregions [~a,~b,~l,~p]\r\nResidues in disallowed regions 2 1.2%\r\nNumber of non-glycine and\r\nnon-proline residues 160 100.0%\r\nNumber of end-residues (excl. Gly and Pro) 2\r\nNumber of glycine residues\r\n(shown as triangles) 11\r\nNumber of proline residues 5\r\nTotal number of residues 178\r\nFig. 2. Plot generated by Procheck (3.0).Ramachandran plot of\r\nmodel 3 of Hsp 70.\r\nFig. 3. The final three-dimensional structural representation of\r\nHsp 70 [PyMOL] generated by MODELLER 9v5 Program.\r\nThe second test was carried out using Errat web server\r\n(http://nihserver.mbi.ucla.edu/ERRATv2/) to check the quality\r\nof models. Generally, the quality factor of high resolution\r\nstructures produces values around 90% or higher (Colovos\r\nand Yeates, 1993). Here, the overall quality factor of the\r\nrefined model (58.462) was predicted from Errat. The\r\nevaluated final reliable model has been deposited into Protein\r\nModel Database (http://mi.caspur.it/PMDB/) and is now\r\npublicly accessible [PMDB ID: PM0075773].','Barneet Singh, Ashish Gupta and Sharada M. Potukuchi (2009). Comparative modeling and analysis of 3-D structure of Hsp 70,\r\nin Cancer irroratus'),(4658,'130','Gene action studies for yield and its contributing characters','Puja Rattan and Sanjay Chadha','3_Puja_Rattan.pdf','',1,'Gene effects with respect to its nature and magnitude for yield and its contributing traits were\r\nstudied by involving 28 cross combinations obtained by crossing 7 lines and 4 testers in Line X Tester fashion.\r\nThe study revealed higher estimates of s2sca than s2gca (average) for yield and most of its contributing traits,\r\nWhile for earliness s2gca (average) was higher than s2sca. s2gca (testers) were higher than. s2gca (lines) for both\r\nyield and earliness. For yield and its contributing traits. s2\r\nD was again higher than s2\r\nA. The contribution of lines\r\nfor marketable yield/plant was 14.56, 12.23, and 4.97 % in 2003, 2005 and pooled analysis, respectively. Contribution\r\nof testers for marketable yield/plant was 19.53 in 2003, 47.8 in 2005 and 13.24 in pooled analysis. Line X tester\r\ninteraction contributed 65.96, 39.96, and 81.79 in 2003, 2005, and pooled analysis, respectively. These results\r\nclearly depicts that in majority of yield attributes non additive gene action were in preponderance or in appreciable\r\nmagnitude lending credence to the already well established practice of exploitation of hybrid vigor in tomato.','Tomato, gene action, combining ability, line X tester','Gene effects with respect to its nature and magnitude for yield and its contributing traits were\r\nstudied by involving 28 cross combinations obtained by crossing 7 lines and 4 testers in Line X Tester fashion.\r\nThe study revealed higher estimates of s2sca than s2gca (average) for yield and most of its contributing traits,\r\nWhile for earliness s2gca (average) was higher than s2sca. s2gca (testers) were higher than. s2gca (lines) for both\r\nyield and earliness. For yield and its contributing traits. s2\r\nD was again higher than s2\r\nA. The contribution of lines\r\nfor marketable yield/plant was 14.56, 12.23, and 4.97 % in 2003, 2005 and pooled analysis, respectively. Contribution\r\nof testers for marketable yield/plant was 19.53 in 2003, 47.8 in 2005 and 13.24 in pooled analysis. Line X tester\r\ninteraction contributed 65.96, 39.96, and 81.79 in 2003, 2005, and pooled analysis, respectively. These results\r\nclearly depicts that in majority of yield attributes non additive gene action were in preponderance or in appreciable\r\nmagnitude lending credence to the already well established practice of exploitation of hybrid vigor in tomato. ','Tomato, gene action, combining ability, line X tester','Puja Rattan and Sanjay Chadha (2009). Gene action studies for yield and its contributing characters. Biological Forum – An International Journal, Forum — An International Journal, 1(21)(:1 8):-1102.'),(4659,'130','Effect of Mesorhizobium and plant growth promoting rhizobacteria on\r\nnodulation and yields of chickpea','Jay Prakash Verma, Janardan Yadav* and Kavindra Nath Tiwari','4_Jayprakash.pdf','',1,'A positive influence of plant growth promoting rhizobacteria (PGPR) and Mesorhizobium sp. strain\r\nBHURC03 (Accession No.GU124825) on nodulation, plant biomass and yield related parameter were recorded in\r\nboth year of field experiment. The maximum significant increase in nodule number, dry weight of nodule, root\r\nand shoot were recorded in coinoculation of Mesorhizobium sp. and Pseudomonas fluorescens followed by coinoculation\r\nof Mesorhizobium sp., Azotobacter chroococcum and Bacillus megaterium over uninoculated control in\r\nboth year of field study while nitrogen and phosphorus content increase in nodules, grain and straw. The\r\nMesorhizobium sp. and P. fluorescens have been shown maximum significant increase in all parameter due to\r\nhigher nitrogen fixation by Mesorhizobium sp. and strong phosphate solubilizer, higher production of plant\r\ngrowth promoting hormones like indole acetic acid by P. fluorescens. Therefore, co-inoculation of Mesorhizobium\r\nsp. strain BHURC03 and P. fluorescens may be highly effective bioformulation for chickpea (Cicer arietinum L.)\r\nproduction.','Mesorhizobium sp., Chickpea (Cicer arietinum L.), PGPR, Pseudomonas fluorescens, Azotobacter chroococcum,\r\nBacillus megaterium','Present investigation of two year field experiment\r\ndata, we have been found highly effective synergistic\r\ncombination of Mesorhizobium sp. strain BHURC03 and\r\nPseudomonas fluorescens for better growth and yield\r\nof chickpea production. PGPR in combination with\r\nother inoculants, if studied further at the farmer’s field,\r\ncould be an alternative to chemical fertilizer to promote\r\nplant growth in chickpea and other field crops.','Chickpea (Cicer arietinum L.) is a major grain legume\r\ncrop. It is contributes to 38% of national pulse production\r\nin India. Chickpea can obtain a significant portion of its N\r\nrequirement through symbiotic N2 – fixation to give high\r\ngrain yield when grown in association with effective and\r\ncompetitive Rhizobium strain (Kyei-Boahen et al., 2002). Due\r\nto excessive use of the chemical fertilizers and plant\r\nprotection chemicals, the rhizosphere microflora has been\r\ngreatly affected and in place of the beneficial associative\r\nbacteria, harmful types now predominate in the rhizosphere.\r\nTherefore, more attention being paid to the search for early\r\nroot colonizers which directly or indirectly influence plant\r\ngrowth and productivity. Interactions between these PGPR\r\nwith Rhizobium may be antagonistic or synergistic, and the\r\nbeneficial effects of such interactions could be exploited for\r\neconomic grain (Dubey, 1996, Glick, 1995). The role of\r\nsymbiotic nitrogen fixing bacteria, plant growth promoting\r\nrhizobacteria (PGPR) and phosphate solubilizing\r\nmicroorganisms in crop productivity is well documented\r\n(Kennedy et al., 2004). Combined inoculation of Rhizobium\r\nwith Pseudomonas striata or Bacillus polymyxa and with\r\nBacillus megaterium have shown increased dry matter, grain\r\nyield and phosphorus uptake significantly over the\r\nuninoculated control in legumes (Elkoca et al., 2008; Yadegari\r\net al., 2008). Hence in the present investigations, attempts\r\nhave been made to evaluate the contribution of plant\r\ngrowth promoting rhizobacteria along with and\r\nMesorhizobium sp. strain BHURC03 in terms of plant\r\ngrowth and yield of chickpea (Cicer arietinum L.).\r\nMATERIAL AND METHOD\r\nCulture, media and growth condition. The pure cultures\r\nof Azotobacter chroococcum strain MTCC-446,\r\nPseudomonas. fluorescens strain MTCC-1748 and Bacillus\r\nmegaterium strain MTCC-428 were obtained from MTCC\r\n(Microbial Technology Culture Collection), Institute of\r\nMicrobial Technology, Chandigarh, Punjab. India. The\r\nbacterial strains of A. chroococcum, P. fluorescens and B.\r\nmegaterium were maintained on nutrient agar medium.\r\nIndigenous Mesorhizobium sp. strain BHURC03 (Accession\r\nNo.GU124825) was isolated from healthy root nodules of\r\nchickpea. It was identified by 16S rDNA gene sequencing\r\nand their accession number was obtained from GenBank,\r\nNCBI. It was maintained on yeast extract mannitol agar\r\n(YEMA) medium. The cultures were maintained by periodic\r\ntransfer on their respective media and stored in the\r\nrefrigerator for further studies.\r\nHost seeds. Seeds of chickpea (Cicer arietinum L.)\r\ncultivar Radhey (common name: chana) were obtained from\r\nIndian Institute of Pulse Research (IIPR), Kalyanpur, Kanpur,\r\nUttar Pradesh, India.\r\nSeed bacterization. The Mesorhizobium sp. strain\r\nBHURC03 was grown in YEM broth and A. chroococcum,\r\nB. megaterium and P. fluorescens were grown in Nutrient\r\nbroth by incubation for 120 rpm at 28 ± 2°C for 48. Healthy\r\nseeds weighed for each plot of 5 m2 (@ 100 kg ha– 1 were\r\nseparately inoculated as per treatments in plastic bags with\r\n5 ml of 7 days old broth cultures grown in specific media of\r\nrespective inoculants (mixed in 1:1 ratio for combined\r\ntreatments) along with 1ml of 1% (w/v) sticker solution of\r\ngum acacia to ensure bacterial population in the range of\r\nEffect of Mesorhizobium and plant growth promoting rhizobacteria on\r\nnodulation and yields of chickpea\r\nJay Prakash Verma, Janardan Yadav* and Kavindra Nath Tiwari\r\nDepartment of Botany, MMV, Banaras Hindu University, Varanasi INDIA\r\n*Department of Soil Science and Agric. Chem., Institute of Agric. Sci., Banaras Hindu University, Varanasi INDIA\r\nABSTRACT : A positive influence of plant growth promoting rhizobacteria (PGPR) and Mesorhizobium sp. strain\r\nBHURC03 (Accession No.GU124825) on nodulation, plant biomass and yield related parameter were recorded in\r\nboth year of field experiment. The maximum significant increase in nodule number, dry weight of nodule, root\r\nand shoot were recorded in coinoculation of Mesorhizobium sp. and Pseudomonas fluorescens followed by coinoculation\r\nof Mesorhizobium sp., Azotobacter chroococcum and Bacillus megaterium over uninoculated control in\r\nboth year of field study while nitrogen and phosphorus content increase in nodules, grain and straw. The\r\nMesorhizobium sp. and P. fluorescens have been shown maximum significant increase in all parameter due to\r\nhigher nitrogen fixation by Mesorhizobium sp. and strong phosphate solubilizer, higher production of plant\r\ngrowth promoting hormones like indole acetic acid by P. fluorescens. Therefore, co-inoculation of Mesorhizobium\r\nsp. strain BHURC03 and P. fluorescens may be highly effective bioformulation for chickpea (Cicer arietinum L.)\r\nproduction.\r\nKeywords : Mesorhizobium sp., Chickpea (Cicer arietinum L.), PGPR, Pseudomonas fluorescens, Azotobacter chroococcum,\r\nBacillus megaterium\r\nBiological Forum – An International Journal, Forum — An International Journal, 1(21)(:1 1):1-1124(-21070(92)009) ISSN : 0975-1130\r\n12 Verma, Yadav and Tiwari\r\n107 to 108 colony forming unit (CFU) seed– 1. After drying\r\nfor one hour in shade, uninoculated seeds were sown first\r\nfollowed by inoculated seeds just to avoid contamination.\r\nField Experiments. The field experiments were set up in\r\nthe first week of October 2006 (first-year trial) and 2007\r\n(second-year trial) at Agricultural Research Farm, Institute\r\nof Agricultural Sciences, Banaras Hindu University, Varanasi\r\nUttar Pradesh, India. The field experiments were conducted\r\nwith 5 treatments and 4 replication of indigenous\r\nMesorhizobium sp. strain BHURC03 and appropriate\r\nsynergestic combination of plant growth promoting\r\nrhizobacteria (PGPR) as (A. chroococcum P. fluorescens and\r\nB. megaterium) and one uninoculated control. The plot size\r\nwas 4 × 2.5m and spacing 25 × 25cm between row and\r\n10 × 10 cm between plants. The physico-chemical properties\r\nof the initial soil of experimental field was sandy clay loam\r\nin texture with 40.83% water holding capacity, neutral in\r\nreaction (pH 7.25) and electronic conductivity (dSm– 1) 0.155.\r\nThe content of organic carbon (0.778%) (Walkley and Black,\r\n1934); available N (213.24 kg ha– 1) (Subbiah and Asija, 1956);\r\nP2O5 (27.22 kg ha– 1) (Olsen’s, 1954) and K2O (254.76 kg ha–1)\r\n(Jackson, 1967); respectively were estimated in soil. The\r\nmicrobial population of total bacteria, fungi and\r\nactinomycetes (4.5×10– 8, 3.1×10– 8 and 3.4×10– 8 CFU g– 1soil),\r\nrespectively (Aneja, 2003) were found in soil.\r\nAssessment of nodules number, dry weight of root and\r\nshoot, yield and harvest index. For assessment of root shoot\r\ndry weight, ten plants were randomly harvested at their peak\r\nflowering time (80 days after sowing) from inoculated and\r\ncontrol plots and washed several time with running water.\r\nFirst roots were cut off, and root and shoots were dried at\r\n70°C for 72 h. separately, for each plant. For nodules number,\r\nanother ten representative plants were harvested from control\r\nand inoculated plots. The nodules were separated and\r\ncounted from each plant, and dry weight was recorded after\r\ndrying the nodules at 70°C for 72 h. Towards the end of the\r\ngrowth period, another ten representative plants were\r\nrandomly harvested from control and inoculated plots to\r\ndetermine yield parameters. The plants were dried at 70°C\r\nfor 72 h and weighted for calculating the biological yield.\r\nGrain weight (economic yield) was also recorded at the time\r\nof senescence. Harvest index was calculated according to\r\nthe formula: harvest index = economic yield × 100 / biological\r\nyield.\r\nDetermination of nitrogen and phosphorus in nodules.\r\nFor determination of nitrogen and phosphorus in nodules,\r\nten representative plants from control and inoculated plots\r\nat flowering time were taken. For determination of nitrogen\r\nand phosphorus in grain and straw, ten representative plants\r\nfrom control and inoculated plots at harvesting time were\r\ntaken. The dry nodules (0.2g) sample was digested in 10 ml\r\nof 4.1 ratio of HNO3: HClO4 for total P (Vanadomolybdophosphoric\r\nacid yellow color methods), in 10 ml diacid\r\nmixture of 9:1 ratio of H2SO4: HClO4 for the analysis of total\r\nN (Nessler’s reagent method).\r\nStatistical analysis. The experiment was arranged in a\r\nrandomized block design and was replicated four times.\r\nStatistical analysis was conducted using one-way analysis\r\nof variance (ANOVA). Comparisons of mean were performed\r\nby the least significant deferent (LSD) test at p < 0.05 by\r\nusing SPSS software version 12.0.\r\nRESULT AND DISCUSSION\r\nThe three PGPR isolates (A. chroococcum, P.\r\nfluorescens and B. megaterium) did not antagonize\r\nMesorhizobium sp. strain BHURC03 when grown together\r\non plates. The Mesorhizobium sp. strain BHURC03 interacted\r\ndifferentially with PGPR isolates and showed significant\r\nvariation in nodulation, dry weight of nodules, root and\r\nshoot, grain and straw yield of chickpea (Table 1,2). Seed\r\ninoculation of Mesorhizobium sp. strain BHURC03 produced\r\nsignificant 24.39% nodule number in first year and 14.89%\r\nnodule number in second year of field experiment.\r\nuninoculated control. Dual inoculation of seed with\r\nMesorhizobium sp. and P. fluorescens, B. megaterium and\r\nA. chroococcum, produced 58.54, 51.21 and 36.59%,\r\nrespectively, more nodule number in first year of analysis\r\nand 51.06, 40.43 and 27.65%, respectively, more nodule in\r\nsecond year of analysis than uninoculated control. Similarly\r\ncombined inoculation of Rhizobium and PSB in chickpea\r\nhas been reported to enhance in nodulation, plant growth,\r\nyield and nutrient uptake (Rudresh et. al., 2005). The\r\nmaximum significant increased nodule dry weight 48.85 and\r\n42.42%, nitrogen 45.65 and 52.31% and phosphorus in\r\nnodules 13.8 and 17.93% in the first and second year study,\r\nrespectively, while dry weight of root increased 24.81 and\r\n36.22% in combination of Mesorhizobium sp. and P.\r\nfluorescens followed by combination of Mesorhizobium sp.,\r\nB. megaterium and A. chroococcum over uninoculated\r\ncontrol. Similarly, shoot dry weight was increased significant,\r\n84.47 and 76.56% (Table 1,2).\r\nExcept for harvest index, the higher grain yield 21.05\r\nand 25.74% and straw yield 28.51 and 31.15% in both year\r\nof field study, respectively was increased significantly in\r\nco-inoculation of Mesorhizobium sp. with P. fluorescens\r\nfollowed by Mesorhizobium sp. with B. megaterium and\r\nA. chroococcum over uninoculated control (Table 2). Wani\r\net. al., (2007) have been reported the synergistic effect of\r\nnitrogen fixing and phosphate-solubilizing rhizobacteria on\r\nplant growth, yield, grain protein, and nutrient uptake of\r\nchickpea plants. Effects of coinoculations with Pseudomonas\r\njessenii PS06 (a phosphate-solubilizing bacteria) and\r\nMesorhizobium ciceri C-2/2 strains enhanced the growth\r\nand seed yield of chickpea under greenhouse and field\r\nconditions (Valverde et. al., 2006) Phosphate solubilizing\r\nbacteria are also known to increased phosphorus uptake\r\nresulting in better growth and higher yield of crop plants\r\n(Bajpai and Sundara Roa, 1971; Gaur et. al., 1980; Alagawadi\r\nVerma, Yadav and Tiwari 13\r\nand Gaur, 1988). Co-inoculation studies with PGPR and\r\nRhizobium/Bradyrhizobium spp. have been shown to\r\nincreased root and shoot biomass, nodule dry matter,\r\nnitrogenase activity, N2-fixation, and grain yield in chickpea\r\n(Sindu et al., 2002; Zaidi et al., 2003; Gull et al., 2004) and\r\nvarious legume such as green gram (Sindhu et al., 1999)\r\nand pigeonpea (Tilak et al., 2006). Furthermore, combined\r\ninoculations with N2-fixing and P-solubilizing bacteria were','Jay Prakash Verma, Janardan Yadav* and Kavindra Nath Tiwari (2009). Effect of Mesorhizobium and plant growth promoting rhizobacteria on\r\nnodulation and yields of chickpea. Biological Forum – An International Journal, Forum — An International Journal, 1(21)(:1 1):1-1124.'),(4660,'130','Combining ability among bacterial wilt resistant genotypes for certain\r\nbiochemical parameters affecting fruit quality in\r\ntomato (Lycopersicon esculentum Mill.)','Puja Rattan and Vidyasagar','5_Puja_Rattan.pdf','',1,'The present investigation on combing ability for certain biochemical parameters was carried out in\r\na set of 28 F1 hybrids of tomato from a line X tester method involving 7 lines and 4 testers, which were resistant\r\nto bacterial wilt. Among lines, BL-342 in 2003 and 2005 exhibited highest General Combining Ability (GCA) for\r\ntotal soluble solids (TSS). For ascorbic acid, BL-333 in both proved to be best general combiner, For total sugars\r\nand reducing sugars CLN-2116 was the best general combiner in 2005, while for non reducing sugars, Rodade in\r\n2003 and BL-333 in 2005 exhibited best general combing ability. CLN 2123 was top ranker for titrable acidity in\r\n2005. EC-392698 was top ranking tester for TSS and ascorbic acid during both years of study and for total sugars\r\nand reducing sugars during 2005. For non reducing sugars Hawaii-7998 in both years and for titrable acidity,\r\nPTOM 9802 exhibited highest GCA. Best specific combination as depicted by its Specific Combining Ability\r\n(SCA) was BT-18 X H-7998 in 2003 and CLN-2026 X EC-191536 in 2005 for TSS, CLN-2026 X EC-191536 both in\r\n2003 and 2005 for ascorbic acid and CLN-2123 X EC-191536 in 2005 both for total sugars and reducing sugars. For\r\nnon reducing sugars BT-18 X EC-392698 in 2003, BL-342 X EC-392698 in 2005 were top rankers, while for\r\ntitrable acidity top rankers were CLN-2116 X EC-392698 in 2003 and CLN-2026 X EC-392698 in 2005.','Tomato, combining ability, bacterial wilt, biochemical parameters, quality.','The present investigation on combing ability for certain biochemical parameters was carried out in\r\na set of 28 F1 hybrids of tomato from a line X tester method involving 7 lines and 4 testers, which were resistant\r\nto bacterial wilt. Among lines, BL-342 in 2003 and 2005 exhibited highest General Combining Ability (GCA) for\r\ntotal soluble solids (TSS). For ascorbic acid, BL-333 in both proved to be best general combiner, For total sugars\r\nand reducing sugars CLN-2116 was the best general combiner in 2005, while for non reducing sugars, Rodade in\r\n2003 and BL-333 in 2005 exhibited best general combing ability. CLN 2123 was top ranker for titrable acidity in\r\n2005. EC-392698 was top ranking tester for TSS and ascorbic acid during both years of study and for total sugars\r\nand reducing sugars during 2005. For non reducing sugars Hawaii-7998 in both years and for titrable acidity,\r\nPTOM 9802 exhibited highest GCA. Best specific combination as depicted by its Specific Combining Ability\r\n(SCA) was BT-18 X H-7998 in 2003 and CLN-2026 X EC-191536 in 2005 for TSS, CLN-2026 X EC-191536 both in\r\n2003 and 2005 for ascorbic acid and CLN-2123 X EC-191536 in 2005 both for total sugars and reducing sugars. For\r\nnon reducing sugars BT-18 X EC-392698 in 2003, BL-342 X EC-392698 in 2005 were top rankers, while for\r\ntitrable acidity top rankers were CLN-2116 X EC-392698 in 2003 and CLN-2026 X EC-392698 in 2005.','INTRODUCTION\r\nTomato is one of the most popular and widely grown\r\nvegetables in the world. It is very well known for its\r\noutstanding nutritive value. Per capita fresh tomato\r\nconsumption is expected to increase in the light of\r\navailability of antioxidants in tomato fruits. Tomato is an\r\nimportant crop in the processing industry. It is widely\r\nemployed in canning, made into soups, pickes, ketchups,\r\nsauces and juices etc.\r\nFruits having high total soluble solids (TSS) and\r\noptimum sugars and acidity are the most desirable for\r\nprocessing industry. In India quality breeding needs to be\r\ngiven priority in tomato improvement programmes. Hybrid\r\nbreeding can result in terrific gains in production and quality.\r\nThe presence of heterosis indicates the ability of parents to\r\ncombine well in hybrids. The ability of parents to combine\r\nwell is due to complex interaction among genes which cannot\r\nbe judged by mere yield performance of fruits. This\r\ninformation is provided by General Combing Ability (GCA)\r\nand Specific Combining Ability (SCA) of genotypes and their\r\nhybrid combinations.\r\nBacterial wilt is an important problem in mid hills of\r\nHimachal Pradesh and more than 40% yield losses occur\r\ndue to this disease. So this study was conducted, using\r\nbacterial wilt resistant tomato lines to find out combining\r\nability for certain biochemical traits such as total soluble\r\nsolids (TSS), ascorbic acid, titrable acidity and total sugars,\r\nreducing sugars and non reducing sugars.\r\nMATERIAL AND METHODS\r\nThe present study entitled, “Line x tester analysis\r\ninvolving bacterial wilt resistant genotypes across\r\nenvironments” was carried out at CSK HPKV, Palampur\r\nduring summer-rainy season of 2003 and 2005.The location\r\nis situated at 32°6¢ N latitude and 76°3¢ E longitudes at an\r\nelevation of 1290. 8 m above mean sea level, with very high\r\nrainfall.\r\nThe experimental material comprised of F1 population,\r\ndeveloped by crossing 7 lines of tomato viz., BT-18 (L1),\r\nRodade (L2), BL-342 (L3), BL-333 (L4), CLN-2123 (L5),\r\nCLN-2116 (L6), and CLN-2026 (L7) with 4 testers, namely\r\nEC-191536 (T1), PTOM-9802 (T2), Hawaii-7998 (T3) and\r\nEC-392698 (T4). The experimental material was grown in\r\nRandomized Block Design keeping three replications during\r\nsummer rainy season at the Vegetable Research Farm of the\r\nDepartment of Vegetable Science and Floriculture, CSK\r\nHPKV, Palampur. Each F1 and parent was grown in a single\r\nrow of 3.15m length. The plants were placed at 75cm row to\r\nrow and 45cm plant to plant. Thus, there were 7 plants in\r\neach entry per replication.\r\nCombining ability among bacterial wilt resistant genotypes for certain\r\nbiochemical parameters affecting fruit quality in\r\ntomato (Lycopersicon esculentum Mill.)\r\nPuja Rattan and Vidyasagar*\r\nDepartment of Vegetable Science & Floriculture, CSK HPKV Palampur, (H.P.)\r\n*Division of Vegetable Science & Floriculture, FOA, Main Campus, Chatha, SKUAST-Jammu INDIA\r\nABSTRACT : The present investigation on combing ability for certain biochemical parameters was carried out in\r\na set of 28 F1 hybrids of tomato from a line X tester method involving 7 lines and 4 testers, which were resistant\r\nto bacterial wilt. Among lines, BL-342 in 2003 and 2005 exhibited highest General Combining Ability (GCA) for\r\ntotal soluble solids (TSS). For ascorbic acid, BL-333 in both proved to be best general combiner, For total sugars\r\nand reducing sugars CLN-2116 was the best general combiner in 2005, while for non reducing sugars, Rodade in\r\n2003 and BL-333 in 2005 exhibited best general combing ability. CLN 2123 was top ranker for titrable acidity in\r\n2005. EC-392698 was top ranking tester for TSS and ascorbic acid during both years of study and for total sugars\r\nand reducing sugars during 2005. For non reducing sugars Hawaii-7998 in both years and for titrable acidity,\r\nPTOM 9802 exhibited highest GCA. Best specific combination as depicted by its Specific Combining Ability\r\n(SCA) was BT-18 X H-7998 in 2003 and CLN-2026 X EC-191536 in 2005 for TSS, CLN-2026 X EC-191536 both in\r\n2003 and 2005 for ascorbic acid and CLN-2123 X EC-191536 in 2005 both for total sugars and reducing sugars. For\r\nnon reducing sugars BT-18 X EC-392698 in 2003, BL-342 X EC-392698 in 2005 were top rankers, while for\r\ntitrable acidity top rankers were CLN-2116 X EC-392698 in 2003 and CLN-2026 X EC-392698 in 2005.\r\nKeywords : Tomato, combining ability, bacterial wilt, biochemical parameters, quality.\r\nBiological Forum – An International Journal, Forum — An International Journal, 1(21)(:1 1):5-1129(-21070(92)009) ISSN : 0975-1130\r\n16 Rattan and Vidyasagar\r\nFor recording the data of the characters under study, a\r\nrandom sample of 10 fruits per entry per replication was\r\ndrawn from 3rd to 4th picking. The data was analyzed for\r\nline x tester analysis as per the method given by Kempthorne\r\n(1957).\r\nRESULTS AND DISCUSSION\r\nThe results of analysis of variance are presented in\r\ntable 1. The ‘F’ test revealed that the differences among\r\ntreatments were highly significant for all the characters in\r\n2005 and except total sugars and reducing sugars in 2003.\r\nPartitioning of variance due to treatments into lines, testers\r\nand lines x testers interactions revealed significant mean\r\nsquares due to lines as well as testers for all the traits\r\nexcept total sugars, reducing sugars and titrable acidity in\r\n2003, while it was significant for all the traits in 2005. Mean\r\nsquares due to line x tester were significant for all the traits\r\nin 2005 and except total sugars and reducing sugars in 2003.\r\nThe estimates of general combining ability (GCA) effects\r\nwith corresponding standard errors of lines and testers are\r\npresented in table 2. Good general combining lines having\r\npositive significant general combining ability (GCA) effects\r\nfor total soluble solids were BL-342 in 2003 and BL-342 and\r\nCLN-2116 in 2005, while among testers, only EC-392698 had\r\nsignificant positive general combining ability effects for total\r\nsoluble solids in 2003 and 2005. For ascorbic acid, line BL-\r\n333 in 2003 and 2005 and testers EC-392698 and Hawaii-\r\n7998 in 2003 and PTOM-9802 in 2005 showed good general\r\ncombining ability effects. The lines CLN-2116 and CLN-2026\r\nin 2005 and testers EC-392698 and PTOM 9802 has\r\nsignificant positive general combining ability effects for total\r\nsugars indicating their good general combining ability. For\r\nreducing sugars, among lines only CLN-2116 and among\r\ntesters, EC-392698 and PTOM-9802 showed good general\r\ncombining ability in 2005. Lines Rodade and BL-333 in 2003\r\nand BL-333, CLN-2026, CLN-2116 and CLN-2123 in 2005 and\r\ntester Hawaii-7998 in 2003 revealed good general combining\r\nability for non reducing sugars. For higher titrable acidity,\r\nthe line CLN-2123 and tester PTOM-9802 in 2005 showed\r\nsignificant positive general combining ability. Thus these\r\nlines and testers can be very well utilized for hybrid\r\nproduction.\r\nSpecific combining ability effects (SCA) of different\r\ncrosses are given in table 3. Higher total soluble solids add\r\nto the quality of fruit and result in recovery of processed\r\nproducts. For higher total soluble solids, 7 cross\r\ncombinations in 2003 and 6 in 2005 revealed positive specific\r\ncombining ability effects indicating their good specific\r\ncombining ability. Out of these BT-18 x Hawaii-7998 (poor x\r\naverage) in 2003 and CLN-2026 x Ec-191536 (average x poor)\r\nin 2005 top ranked for higher total soluble solids. CLN-2026\r\nx EC-191536 (average x average) in 2003 as well as in 2005\r\nhad highest specific combining ability effects for ascorbic\r\nacid.\r\nSugars and organic acids are the important constituents\r\nof flavor and edible quality of tomato fruits (Lower and\r\nThompson, 1967). High sugars contribute to sweetness and\r\naroma in fruit (Kalloo, 1988). For total sugars and reducing\r\nsugars, CLN-2123 × EC-191536 (average × poor) in 2005,\r\nranked first among 8 cross combinations showing positive\r\nsignificant specific combining ability effects. For non\r\nreducing sugars, amongst 11 cross combinations revealing\r\npositive significant specific combining ability effect, BT-18\r\n× EC-392698 (poor × poor) had highest specific combining\r\nability effects.\r\nFruit acidity affects flavor and taste of fresh fruits as\r\nwell as the finished products (Raina et al. 1980). Keeping\r\nhigher acidity as desirable, the cross combinations\r\nCLN-2116 × EC-392698 (average x poor) had maximum\r\npositive specific combining ability effect among 11 cross\r\ncombinations revealing positive specific combining ability\r\neffects.\r\nMajority of cross combinations exhibiting desirable\r\nspecific combining ability effects, had atleast one of the\r\nparents as good or average general combiner. Similar views\r\nhave also been expressed by Chadha et al., 2001, Makesh\r\n2003 and Sharma, 2003. But some cross combination like\r\nBT-18 × EC-392698 having both the parents as poor general\r\ncombiners have also been observed, these observations\r\ncorroborate the findings of Lonkar and Borikar, 1988, Sharma,\r\n1998, and Sharma 2003, who commented that the superiority\r\nof hybrids need not necessary have parents showing high\r\ngeneral combining ability effects only. Usually the high\r\nestimates of specific combining ability effects are obtained\r\nfrom crosses involving diverse parents. The better\r\nperformance of the cross having poor x poor general\r\ncombiners as parents suggests that high magnitude of non\r\nadditive component was responsible for the superiority of\r\nthe pertinent cross combination. This preponderance of non\r\nadditive gene action is appreciable magnitude lead the\r\ncredence to the already well established practice of\r\nexploitation of hybrid vigor in tomato.','Puja Rattan and Vidyasagar (2009). Combining ability among bacterial wilt resistant genotypes for certain biochemical parameters affecting fruit quality in tomato (Lycopersicon esculentum Mill.). Biological Forum – An International Journal, Forum — An International Journal, 1(2): 15-19.'),(4661,'130','In vitro propagation of Lilium','R.K. Pandey, A.K. Singh and Mamta Sharma','6_RK_Pandey.pdf','',1,'An experiment on in vitro propagation of lilium was carried out at Biotechnology Centre, Udheywalla,\r\nSKUAST- Jammu. The explants ( bulb scales ) were surface sterilized with 0.1% HgCl2 and 2% Bavistin for\r\n7.5 minutes and inoculated on MS medium supplemented with Kin (0.75mg/l) and NAA (0.5mg/l) which resulted\r\nin maximum proliferation. These were subcultured for further multiplication on MS medium fortified with BAP\r\n(0.75mg/l) and NAA (0.5mg/l) which resulted in maximum number of 7.2 bulblets per scale explant. The individual\r\nbulblet was separated out transferred for rooting in MS medium supplemented with NAA (1.0mg/l). This gave\r\n97.32 per cent rooted cultures and maximum root length of 1.66cm. The plantlets with well developed roots were\r\ntransferred to potting mixture of cocopeat before transplanting to green house.','Lilium, in vitro, micro propagation, bulb scales','An experiment on in vitro propagation of lilium was carried out at Biotechnology Centre, Udheywalla,\r\nSKUAST- Jammu. The explants ( bulb scales ) were surface sterilized with 0.1% HgCl2 and 2% Bavistin for\r\n7.5 minutes and inoculated on MS medium supplemented with Kin (0.75mg/l) and NAA (0.5mg/l) which resulted\r\nin maximum proliferation. These were subcultured for further multiplication on MS medium fortified with BAP\r\n(0.75mg/l) and NAA (0.5mg/l) which resulted in maximum number of 7.2 bulblets per scale explant. The individual\r\nbulblet was separated out transferred for rooting in MS medium supplemented with NAA (1.0mg/l). This gave\r\n97.32 per cent rooted cultures and maximum root length of 1.66cm. The plantlets with well developed roots were\r\ntransferred to potting mixture of cocopeat before transplanting to green house.','INTRODUCTION\r\nLilium, an important genetic resource as an ornamental\r\nplant belongs to family Liliaceae. It is one of the leading\r\ncut flower crops in the world because of beautiful and\r\nfascinating form of flowers, long vase life and capacity to\r\nrehydrate after long transportation.\r\nLilium propagation is usually done by vegetative means\r\nwhich produces 3-4 bulbs per bulb scale depending on size\r\nand variety. The multiplication efficacy by bulb is low and\r\nthe plantlets are more susceptible to diseases. Therefore,\r\nthere is a need to develop a protocol for its mass\r\npropagation. With the advent of tissue culture technique, a\r\nnew era has dawned the research and development of\r\nfloriculture. Through tissue culture there is not only a\r\ncontinuous supply of bulblets but true-to-type and disease\r\nfree plants can be obtained.\r\nMATERIAL AND METHODS\r\nBulbs of lilium were collected from Division of\r\nVegetable Science and Floriculture, SKUAST-J, Chatha. The\r\nbulbs were thoroughly washed in running tap water for half\r\nan hour to remove traces of mud and dirt. The scales were\r\ngently teased off from the points of attachment using sterile\r\nscalpel blade. The scales were sterilized with Tween-20 for\r\n20 minutes followed by rinsing under tap water to remove\r\ntraces of detergent. Then further aseptic surface sterilization\r\nwas carried out with 0.1% HgCl2 and 2% Bavistin under the\r\nLaminar Flow Chamber followed by three times washing with\r\nsterile distilled water. After surface sterilization the explants\r\nwere cultured on modified MS medium (Murashige and\r\nSkoog, 1962) supplemented with various combinations of\r\ndifferent growth regulators viz. NAA, BAP, and Kin.\r\nAfter establishment, the in vitro raised bulblets were\r\nseparated and cultured individually on multiplication medium.\r\nOnce suitable multiplication has been achieved, individual\r\nbulblets were transferred to rooting medium supplemented\r\nwith different concentrations of NAA.\r\nAll media contained 30g/l sucrose, 0.1 g/l inositol and\r\n8g/l agar. The pH of the media was adjusted to 5.6-5.8 with\r\n0.1N NaOH and 0.1 HCl before autoclaving at 121°C and 15\r\npsi for 15 minutes. All the cultures were incubated in the\r\nculture room at 25+2°C and 70 per cent relative humidity\r\nunder 16 hours photoperiod and 1.5 kilolux light intensity\r\nprovided by cool, white, fluorescent lamps. The rooted\r\nshoots were carefully removed, washed gently under running\r\ntap water to remove adhering agar and kept in 0.5% Bavistin\r\nfor about half an hour. These were then transferred to pots\r\nwith different potting mixtures.\r\nAll the trials of the experiments were repeated thrice.\r\nThe data recorded for different parameters were subjected\r\nto completely randomized design (Gomez & Gomez, 1984).\r\nThe statistical analysis based on mean values per treatment\r\nwas made using analysis of variance (ANOVA) technique\r\nof CRD.\r\nRESULTS AND DISCUSSION\r\nAn attempt has been made to develop a protocol for\r\nthe rapid multiplication of lilium. The surface sterilization of\r\nscale explants with 0.1%HgCl2 and 2% Bavistin for 7.5\r\nminutes resulted in 90.62 per cent of aseptic cultures and\r\n97.32 per cent survival of explants (Table1). Further increase\r\nin exposure time to sterilants led to killing of explants which\r\nmay be due to heavy metal contamination of mercury in\r\nHgCl2 proving phytotoxic for the survival of explant. This is\r\nin confirmity with those reported by Singh and Tiwari (1998)\r\nin jackfruit.','R.K. Pandey, A.K. Singh and Mamta Sharma (2009). In vitro propagation of Lilium. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 1(2): 20-22. '),(4662,'130','Effect of sugar industry effluents on soil and seed germination on\r\nRT-46 (Sesamum indicum L.)','Neelam, Dheeraj Vasu* and Ila Prakash','7_Neelam.pdf','',1,'This paper evaluates the pysico- chemical properties of effluent of Baghpat Co-Operative sugar\r\nMill Ltd. Baghpat (U.P), India. The effects of sugar mill effluent on soil and seed germination. The effluent was\r\nhigh in various solids, COD, BOD, chlorides, sulphates and had nil dissolved oxygen and moderately alkaline\r\npH. The effluents disturbed the pH, Nitrogen, Phosphorous, Calcium Carbonate and organic matter of the soil.\r\nThe greatest perturbance was observed in the potassium in the soil when effluent was used for irrigation. The\r\neffluent was applied to cultivar R.T. 46 seeds of Sesamum Indicum L. in four concentration (25%, 50%, 75%,\r\n100%) germination was observed 93.30% in water irrigated soil and 100% in soil irrigated with 25% concentration\r\nof effluent. The water irrigated soil and the soil irrigated with 25% effluent were found most suitable for\r\ngermination. Thus, it is suggested that the sugar industry effluent must be used for irrigation after proper\r\ndilution.','Sugar mill effluent, physico-chemical characteristics, Sesame seed, Soil, Germination percentage','This paper evaluates the pysico- chemical properties of effluent of Baghpat Co-Operative sugar\r\nMill Ltd. Baghpat (U.P), India. The effects of sugar mill effluent on soil and seed germination. The effluent was\r\nhigh in various solids, COD, BOD, chlorides, sulphates and had nil dissolved oxygen and moderately alkaline\r\npH. The effluents disturbed the pH, Nitrogen, Phosphorous, Calcium Carbonate and organic matter of the soil.\r\nThe greatest perturbance was observed in the potassium in the soil when effluent was used for irrigation. The\r\neffluent was applied to cultivar R.T. 46 seeds of Sesamum Indicum L. in four concentration (25%, 50%, 75%,\r\n100%) germination was observed 93.30% in water irrigated soil and 100% in soil irrigated with 25% concentration\r\nof effluent. The water irrigated soil and the soil irrigated with 25% effluent were found most suitable for\r\ngermination. Thus, it is suggested that the sugar industry effluent must be used for irrigation after proper\r\ndilution.','INTRODUCTION\r\nWater and soil pollution due to industrialization are a\r\ncosmopolitan problem, creating acute insanitation as well as\r\naffecting the soil and crops when waste waters are used for\r\nirrigation. Since may sugar industries discharge their waters\r\non to open lands because of the high cost of dilution and\r\nin adequate sewage treatment facilities, effective and\r\nprofitable utilization of the effluents of the sugar industries\r\nneed greater attention. The utilization of sewage for the\r\nirrigation of crops has been studied by Heukelekian (1957)\r\nand Dunlop et al. (1961). It has been reported that the effects\r\nof tannery effluents when utilized for irrigation purpose\r\n(Thabaraj et al., 1964). The effects on the yield and mineral\r\nnutrition of oats resulting from the disposal of paper mill\r\nsludge on soil was reported by Dolar et al. (1972). Rjannan\r\n& Oblisamy (1979) observed the effects of pulp and paper\r\nfactory a effluents on the soil and plants. A other study\r\nwas conducted by Kumar (2000) on reclamation of soil\r\npolluted by industrial effluents using herbaceous flora. The\r\npresent paper deals with the effects of Baghpat co-operative\r\nsugar mill effluent on certain physico-chemical properties of\r\nsoil, seed germination pattern when irrigated by the effluent\r\nin different concentration.\r\nMATERIALS AND METHODS\r\nThe effluent samples of Baghpat co-operative sugar mill\r\nwere collected at the outlets of the factories using plastic\r\nbottles and analyzed for colour, pH, total solids, suspended\r\nsolids, dissolved oxygen, BOD,COD, chlorine, sulphate,\r\nmagnesium, potassium based on the standard methods. The\r\nfactory was using sugar cane for manufacturing sugar.\r\nThe present studies were conducted to assess the\r\nimmediate impact of sugar industry effluents on the chemical\r\nchanges in soil, with undiluted and diluted effluents before\r\nand after sowing the seeds. Gain and loss of N, P, K, Ca\r\nwere estimated by standard techniques adopted by Subbiah\r\n& Asija (1956) and Olsen et al. (1964).\r\nRESULTS AND DISCUSSION\r\nThe Physico-chemical characteristics of the effluents are\r\ngiven in Table 1. The large amounts of suspended, dissolved\r\nand volatile solids were responsible for the high BOD and\r\nCOD. Considerable amount of chlorides, sulphates and\r\nphosphorus were also present.\r\nThe effect of undiluted and diluted effluents on the\r\nsoil with and without crops are shown in Table 2 and\r\nrespectively. A slight upward change was noted in pH, but\r\nwater holding capacity N,P,K and organic matter while the\r\nremaining parameters showed a downward trend when the\r\nsoil were irrigation with 100% effluent followed by 75%,\r\n50% and 25% of effluent.\r\nThe organic matter and the nutrients present in the\r\neffluent might be responsible for such increase in the soil.\r\nThe concentration of water soluble salts increased with\r\nincreasing effluent concentration. As did the potassium\r\nphosphorus Nitrogen and organic water.\r\nThe pH of soil increased gradually with increase in the\r\nconcentration of the effluent. Hence this alkaline effluent\r\nmay be used for fields having acidic soils. For best results\r\nit is suggested that sugar factory effluent must be diluted\r\nbefore use (Table 3).','Neelam, Dheeraj Vasu* and Ila Prakash (2009). Effect of sugar industry effluents on soil and seed germination on RT-46 (Sesamum indicum L.). Biological Forum – An International Journal, 1(2): 23-25.'),(4663,'130','Production of fungal single cell protein using Rhizopus oligosporus\r\ngrown on fruit wastes','Mahnaaz Khan, Shaukat Saeed Khan, Zafar Ahmed and Arshiya Tanveer','8_Mehnaaz.pdf','',1,'In the present investigation the Rhizopus oligosporus was grown on various fruit wastes such as\r\npapaya waste, cucumber peelings, pomegranate fruit rind, pineapple fruit skin and watermelon skin. The disposal\r\nof wastes is a serious problem and their deposition poses health hazard for all the living beings. The problem\r\nwas undertaken because on one hand there is disposal problem and on the other majority of our population is\r\nliving below poverty line and is suffering from malnutrition. The protein from microbes is cheap, easy to obtain\r\nin crude form, nutritive and can be made available as a food or feed additive to increase its nutritional value. A\r\ncomparative study of fruit wastes revealed that papaya fruit waste generates highest amount of protein per 100 g\r\nof substrate used, followed by cucumber peelings, pomegranate rind, pineapple fruit skin and water melon skin\r\nrespectively with 59.5 mg, 57.3 mg, 51.6 mg, 48.0 mg and 43.2 mg crude protein respectively. The paper deals with\r\ndetails of SCP production using R. oligosporus.','-','In the present investigation the Rhizopus oligosporus was grown on various fruit wastes such as\r\npapaya waste, cucumber peelings, pomegranate fruit rind, pineapple fruit skin and watermelon skin. The disposal\r\nof wastes is a serious problem and their deposition poses health hazard for all the living beings. The problem\r\nwas undertaken because on one hand there is disposal problem and on the other majority of our population is\r\nliving below poverty line and is suffering from malnutrition. The protein from microbes is cheap, easy to obtain\r\nin crude form, nutritive and can be made available as a food or feed additive to increase its nutritional value. A\r\ncomparative study of fruit wastes revealed that papaya fruit waste generates highest amount of protein per 100 g\r\nof substrate used, followed by cucumber peelings, pomegranate rind, pineapple fruit skin and water melon skin\r\nrespectively with 59.5 mg, 57.3 mg, 51.6 mg, 48.0 mg and 43.2 mg crude protein respectively. The paper deals with\r\ndetails of SCP production using R. oligosporus.','\r\nThe term protein is derived from the Greek word\r\n‘Proteios’ which means first. The name is so given because\r\nthey are the first among the natural polymers that are vital\r\nfor the growth and maintenance of life. Proteins are present\r\nin all living tissues as building block components of the\r\nbody. Proteins are important dietary constituent for the\r\nsupply of nitrogen as well as sulfur. When necessary,\r\nproteins may be catabolized to produce energy. Proteins are\r\nalso the major structural components that provide mechanical\r\nsupport to the body. Many hormones in the living body are\r\nproteins that help in regulating or controlling various cell\r\nfunctions from metabolism to reproduction. Proteins are the\r\nessence of life processes and are important for proper\r\ngrowth and development of all the living beings. Its\r\ndeficiency may lead to a number of health disorders in an\r\nindividual. A huge population in this world, especially those\r\nwho are living below poverty line is suffering from\r\nmalnutrition. This is because there is a big gap between the\r\ndemand of protein-rich food and its supply to the everincreasing\r\nworld population. In order to bridge this gap,\r\nSingle cell protein (SCP) is an innovative and an alternative\r\nway to this direction. SCP may be used directly as human\r\nfood supplement or it may be used in animal feed to at\r\nleast partially replace the currently used protein-rich soybean\r\nmeal and fish proteins and even cereals, which can be\r\ndiverted for human consumption (Singh, 1998).The impetus\r\nbehind single cell protein production lies partly in the need\r\nfor more protein and partly in the commercial increase in\r\nthe economic advantages gained by substitution of microbial\r\nprotein for the conventional protein supplements used in\r\nlivestock feeding (Khan et al., 1992).\r\nThe present study was carried out to utilize fruit and\r\nvegetable wastes in the production of single cell protein by\r\ngrowing microorganisms which can be used in food as such\r\nor as animal feed. The protein from microbes is cheap, easy\r\nto obtain in crude form and nutritive. Land use is negligible.\r\nMoreover, bioconversion of agricultural and industrial\r\nwastes to protein-rich food and fodder stocks has an\r\nadditional benefit of making the final product cheaper\r\n(Anupama and Ravindra, 2000). Microorganisms can utilize\r\nwaste materials that cause pollution problem and also\r\nsanitary hazards. The use of wastes would help in controlling\r\npollution and also in solving waste disposal problem to some\r\nextent. SCP production has the potential for feeding the\r\never increasing world population at cheaper rates. As a\r\nsource of protein, it is very promising with the potential to\r\nsatisfy the world shortage of food while population increases\r\n(Najafpour, 2007).\r\nMATERIAL AND METHODS\r\nFruit residues of papaya, pineapple, pomegranate,\r\nwatermelon and cucumber were collected and washed\r\nthoroughly under running tap water and then transferred\r\ninto beakers and conical flasks after weighing a specific\r\nquantity of residue. The flasks were then subjected to\r\nautoclaving at 121ºC and 15 Psi pressure for 45 minutes.\r\nAfter cooling, the sterilized material was then transferred to\r\npre-sterilized Petriplates and inoculated with the inoculum\r\nof Rhizopus oligosporus. The plates were then incubated at\r\n28 ± 1ºC for 5-7 days. After the growth of fungal biomass,\r\nthe mycelia were filtered on a filter paper (Whatmann filter\r\npaper No.1) and washed with distilled water to remove\r\nadhering particles if any. The filter papers containing the\r\nmycelia were dried at 90 ± 2ºC for 24 hours to get moisture\r\nfree fungal contents. The protein content of the fungal\r\nbiomass was estimated by Kjeldahl method (Mathur and\r\nMehta, 1967).\r\nProduction of fungal single cell protein using Rhizopus oligosporus\r\ngrown on fruit wastes\r\nMahnaaz Khan, Shaukat Saeed Khan, Zafar Ahmed and Arshiya Tanveer\r\nDepartment of Microbiology, Saifia College of Science and Education, Bhopal (M.P.)\r\nABSTRACT : In the present investigation the Rhizopus oligosporus was grown on various fruit wastes such as\r\npapaya waste, cucumber peelings, pomegranate fruit rind, pineapple fruit skin and watermelon skin. The disposal\r\nof wastes is a serious problem and their deposition poses health hazard for all the living beings. The problem\r\nwas undertaken because on one hand there is disposal problem and on the other majority of our population is\r\nliving below poverty line and is suffering from malnutrition. The protein from microbes is cheap, easy to obtain\r\nin crude form, nutritive and can be made available as a food or feed additive to increase its nutritional value. A\r\ncomparative study of fruit wastes revealed that papaya fruit waste generates highest amount of protein per 100 g\r\nof substrate used, followed by cucumber peelings, pomegranate rind, pineapple fruit skin and water melon skin\r\nrespectively with 59.5 mg, 57.3 mg, 51.6 mg, 48.0 mg and 43.2 mg crude protein respectively. The paper deals with\r\ndetails of SCP production using R. oligosporus.\r\nBiological Forum – An International Journal, 1(1): 12 -17 Biological Forum — An International Journal, 1(2): 26-28(200(290) 09) ISSN : 0975-1130\r\nKhan, Khan, Ahmed and Tanveer 27\r\nRESULTS AND DISCUSSION\r\nAfter inoculation with R. oligosporus and 5 days of\r\nincubation using wastes of papaya, cucumber, pomegranate,\r\npineapple and watermelon at a temperature of 28 ± 1ºC , it\r\nwas found that wastes of papaya supported higher mycelial\r\ngrowth and biomass, followed by that of cucumber peelings,\r\npomegranate rind and skin of pineapple.\r\nHowever, skin of watermelon could not support the\r\nhigher growth of mycelial biomass.\r\nIncreased mycelial biomass on a substrate varies directly\r\nwith the amount of protein for a particular fungal species.\r\nIn the present investigation, the amount of protein (crude)\r\nestimated by Kjeldahl Method was found to be 59.5 mg,\r\n57.3 mg, 51.6 mg, 48.0 mg and 43.2 mg respectively from the\r\nmycelial growth on papaya waste, cucumber peelings,\r\npomegranate fruit rind, pineapple fruit skin and watermelon\r\nskin. Thus under uniform conditions of experimentation to\r\nachieve higher yield of mycelial biomass and as a\r\nconsequence higher amount of fruit protein from R.\r\noligosporus, papaya fruit waste is therefore comparatively\r\nbest substrate out of the five fruit wastes used. The results\r\nare per 100g of the substrate used.','Mahnaaz Khan, Shaukat Saeed Khan, Zafar Ahmed and Arshiya Tanveer (2009). Production of fungal single cell protein using Rhizopus oligosporus\r\ngrown on fruit wastes. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 1(2): 26-28. '),(4664,'130','Epidemiology and management of powdery mildew of apple in\r\nnurseries','Meenu Gupta and S.K. Sharma','9_Meenu.pdf','',1,'Powdery mildew of apple caused by Podosphaera leucotricha causes heavy losses in nurseries.','Apple, powdery mildew, Podosphaera leucotricha, weather factors, correlations, management','Powdery mildew of apple caused by Podosphaera leucotricha causes heavy losses in nurseries. ','Powdery mildew (Podosphaera leucotricha) is a serious\r\ndisease of apple and causes heavy losses both in orchards\r\nas well as in nurseries. In nurseries, the disease is more\r\nsevere and after infection, seedlings are killed in one season.\r\nThe damage caused by powdery mildew may be manifested\r\nas a direct fall in the yield, because of suppression or\r\ndistortion of plant growth and in nurseries, because of\r\nsudden death of seedlings. There is no definite evidence\r\navailable regarding the conditions which help the outbreak\r\nof apple mildew. Trouble in some localities is worse in hot\r\nand dry season, whereas in others, warm and moist summers\r\nor cool, damp sunless weather favoured the disease (Butler\r\nand Jones, 1961). Therefore in the present investigations,\r\neffect of epidemiological parameters on disease development\r\nand its management was studied.\r\nMATERIALS AND METHOD\r\n1. Effect of temperature and relative humidity on\r\nconidial germination under in vitro conditions. Optimum\r\ntemperature for conidial germination was worked out by\r\nuniformly dusting the conidia from freshly sporulating\r\ncolonies over the sterilized dry and clean glass slides kept\r\non glass rod triangles placed in petri plates (90 mm)\r\ncontaining cotton wool moistened with sterilized distilled\r\nwater. Petri plates containing slides were subsequently\r\ntransferred to incubators maintained at 5,10,15,20,25,30 and\r\n35C. After 48 hrs of incubation, slides were examined\r\nmicroscopically to record conidial germination and germ tube\r\nlength. About 300 conidia selected randomly from different\r\nmicroscopic fields were examined to calculate per cent\r\ngermination and germ tube length.\r\nTo find out the effect of relative humidity on conidial\r\ngermination, eight humidity levels viz., 100.0, 99.10, 98.20,\r\n96.90, 95.60, 89.90, 85.70 and 80.50 per cent were maintained\r\nusing sulfexic acid of known specific gravity as recommended\r\nby Stevens (1916). Equal amounts (25 ml) of required\r\nsolutions were poured in petriplates, used as humidity\r\nchambers and conidia from freshly sporulating colonies were\r\nuniformly dusted over the sterilized, clean dry glass slides\r\nkept in these humidity chambers. Sides of each petri plate\r\nwere sealed with parafilm and subsequently transferred to\r\nan incubator maintained at 25 +1 C. All the treatments were\r\nreplicated four times. After 48 hrs of incubation, a total of\r\n300 conidia selected randomly from different microscopic\r\nfields were examined to calculate per cent conidial\r\ngermination and germ tube length.\r\n2. Role of meteorological factors on disease development\r\nunder field conditions. In order to find out the role of\r\nmeteorological factors on disease development, severity of\r\npowdery mildew of apple was recorded in the nursery of\r\nDepartment of Pomology, UHF, Nauni during the crop\r\nseason, 2004 starting from first week of May. Simultaneously,\r\nmeteorological data on temperature, relative humidity and\r\ncumulative rainfall were also recorded. Simple, partial and\r\nmultiple correlations and regression equations between\r\ndisease severity and above three independent factors were\r\nworked out.\r\n3. Post-symptom anti-sporulating activity of fungicides.\r\nTo determine the post symptom anti-sporulating activity,\r\nleaves of established apple plants were inoculated with\r\nconidia of P. leucotricha taken from infected apple leaves\r\nwith the help of camel hairbrush. A small drop of water (5ml)\r\nwas placed on the corner of each inoculated leaf with the\r\nhelp of a micropipette to provide humidity for conidial\r\ngermination. After the appearance of the symptoms, twenty\r\nleaves (5 leaves per plant) each having 5 to 10 mildew\r\npustules (one treatment) were tagged and subjected to seven\r\nfungicides spray treatment and a check (only water). After\r\n3,5,7 and 10 days of single spray, five tagged leaves were\r\nremoved from each treatment and one lesion (5mm2) per\r\nleaf was cut with the help of a cork borer and washed into\r\n5 ml of distilled water with the help of a camel hair brush\r\n(Gupta and Gupta, 1991). One drop (0.1ml) of conidial\r\nsuspension was placed on a haemocytometer to record the\r\nnumber of conidia and reduction (%) in number of conidia\r\nover control was calculated by the method given by Vincent\r\n(1947).\r\n4. Evaluation of fungicides against powdery mildew\r\nunder field conditions. A field trial was laid out at the\r\nexperimental farm of HRS, Kandaghat with seven fungicides\r\nEpidemiology and management of powdery mildew of apple in\r\nnurseries\r\nMeenu Gupta and S.K. Sharma\r\nDepartment of Mycology and Plant Pathology, Dr. YS Parmar U.H.F., Nauni, Solan (H.P.) INDIA\r\nABSTRACT : Powdery mildew of apple caused by Podosphaera leucotricha causes heavy losses in nurseries.\r\nKeywords : Apple, powdery mildew, Podosphaera leucotricha, weather factors, correlations, management\r\nBiological Forum – An International Journal, Forum — An International Journal, 1(21)(:1 2):9-1323(-21070(92)009) ISSN : 0975-1130\r\n30 Gupta and Sharma\r\nviz., Contaf (0.05%), Score (0.05%), Bavistin (0.05%),\r\nKarathane (0.04%), Sulfex (0.025%), Bright (0.25%) and Glow\r\n(0.05%) against powdery mildew of apple in randomized block\r\ndesign during April to August 2004 and each treatment was\r\nreplicated thrice. Spray application of fungicides was started\r\nwith the initiation of disease i.e. in the first week of April.\r\nIn all, five sprays were applied at fortnightly intervals and\r\nobservations on disease incidence and disease severity were\r\nrecorded ten days after the last spray.\r\nRESULTS AND DISCUSSION\r\n1. Effect of temperature on conidial germination under\r\nin vitro conditions. Data (Table 1) revealed that conidia of\r\nP. leucotricha could germinate over a wide range of\r\ntemperature (5-35°C), however, with the increase in\r\ntemperature, there was an increase in conidial germination.\r\nMaximum germination (49.94%) was obtained at 25°C closely\r\nfollowed by 30°C (47.05%) and 20°C (46.19%), though both\r\nwere statistically at par with each other. Minimum germination\r\nwas recorded at 5°C followed by 35°C giving 28.36 and 33.59\r\nper cent, respectively. These results are in conformity with\r\nthe observations of Coyier (1968) and Monler (1971).\r\nTable 1 : Effect of temperature on conidial germination\r\nunder in vitro conditions.\r\nTemperature Conidial germination Germ tube\r\n(oC) (%) length (m)\r\n5 28.36 (24.06) 8.75\r\n10 36.09 (32.76) 14.17\r\n15 37.58 (33.62) 15.25\r\n20 46.19 (42.82) 15.33\r\n25 49.94 (44.97) 18.33\r\n30 47.05 (43.31) 17.75\r\n35 33.59 (31.52) 9.33\r\nCD0.05 (1.54) 2.93\r\nFigures in parentheses are arc sine transformed values\r\nData further showed that maximum germ tube length of\r\nconidia of P. leucotricha was recorded at 25°C (18.33 m)\r\nclosely followed by 20°C (17.75 mm), though statistically at\r\npar with each other. Several workers have reported a\r\ntemperature range of 20-26°C to be optimum for germ tube\r\ngrowth of most powdery mildews (Monler, 1971 and Hewitt,\r\n1974).\r\n2. Effect of relative humidity on conidial germination.\r\nIt is evident from the data (Table 2) that conidia germinated\r\nat all the humidity levels tested ranging from 80.50 to 100.00\r\nper cent. Conidial germination was highest at 95.60 per cent\r\nRH (84.71%) followed by 89.90 per cent (79.49%) and 96.90\r\nper cent (79.00%), however, all were statistically at par with\r\neach other. Conidial germination was minimum at 100 per\r\ncent (45.06%) relative humidity. These results are in\r\nagreement with the observations of Yarwood (1936) who\r\nsuggested that powdery mildews are normally favoured by\r\ndry weather and reasons for this observation are the\r\nmechanical damage to conidiophores by rain.','Meenu Gupta and S.K. Sharma (2009). Epidemiology and management of powdery mildew of apple in nurseries. Biological Forum – An International Journal, Forum — An International Journal, 1(2): 29-33. '),(4665,'130','Diversity of Butterflies (Lepidoptera: Insecta) from Dholbaha dam\r\n(Distt. Hoshiarpur) in Punjab Shivalik, India','Gaurav Sharma and P.C. Joshi','11_Gaurav.pdf','',1,'A detailed study on the butterfly species diversity was carried out at Dholbaha dam, in district\r\nHoshiarpur, Punjab, India during 2002-04. The study area has a moist deciduous forest surrounding it. A total of\r\n41 butterfly species belonging to 5 families of order Lepidoptera were recorded during the study period. The\r\nfamily Nymphalidae, represented by 19 species was the most dominant followed by Pieridae (10 species), Lycaenidae\r\n(8 species), Papilionidae (3 species) and Hesperiidae (1 species). Eurema hecabe (Linn.) was the most dominant\r\nspecies of Butterfly in terms of number of individuals followed by Danaus chrysippus (Linn.), Euchrysops cnejus\r\n(Fabr.), Euploea core (Cramer), Junonia lemonias Linn., Catopsilia pyranthe Linn. so on and least by Graphium\r\nsarpedon luctatius Fruhstorfer and Delias eucharis Drury. From the conservation point of view, the study area is\r\nundisturbed and rich in flora and fauna species.','Butterfly species diversity, Dholbaha dam, Punjab Shivalik, India','A detailed study on the butterfly species diversity was carried out at Dholbaha dam, in district\r\nHoshiarpur, Punjab, India during 2002-04. The study area has a moist deciduous forest surrounding it. A total of\r\n41 butterfly species belonging to 5 families of order Lepidoptera were recorded during the study period. The\r\nfamily Nymphalidae, represented by 19 species was the most dominant followed by Pieridae (10 species), Lycaenidae\r\n(8 species), Papilionidae (3 species) and Hesperiidae (1 species). Eurema hecabe (Linn.) was the most dominant\r\nspecies of Butterfly in terms of number of individuals followed by Danaus chrysippus (Linn.), Euchrysops cnejus\r\n(Fabr.), Euploea core (Cramer), Junonia lemonias Linn., Catopsilia pyranthe Linn. so on and least by Graphium\r\nsarpedon luctatius Fruhstorfer and Delias eucharis Drury. From the conservation point of view, the study area is\r\nundisturbed and rich in flora and fauna species.','INTRODUCTION\r\nIndia having only 2.3 percent (3,287,263 Km2) of the\r\ntotal land mass of the world so far recorded around 89,500\r\nanimal species, comprises 7.28 percent of the total world\r\nanimal species (Alfred et al., 1998). Approximately 17,200\r\nspecies of butterfly throughout the world, of which 1,501\r\nspecies of butterfly are known from India (Kunte, 2000).\r\nButterflies are the most beautiful and attractive than most\r\nother insects and have fascinated human imagination and\r\ncreativity. They are valuable pollinators when they move\r\nfrom plant to plant, gathering nectar and are the one of the\r\nimportant food chain components of the birds, reptiles,\r\nspiders and predatory insects. They are also good indicators\r\nof environmental quality as they are sensitive to changes in\r\nthe environment. The largest Indian butterfly is Common\r\nBirdwing, Troides helena (Linn.) with a maximum expanse of\r\n190mm and the smallest is Grass Jewel, Freyeria trochilus\r\nputli (Kollar) with a minimum expanse of 15mm (Wynter-\r\nBlyth, 1957).\r\nPerusal of literature reveals that the workers contributed\r\nand documented their work in this field were de Niceville\r\n(1886, 1890), Moore (1890-1903), Marshall & de Niceville\r\n(1882), Swinhoe (1893, 1905-1912), Bingham (1905, 1907),\r\nEvans (1932), Talbot (1939, 1947), Wynter-Blyth (1957),\r\nCantlie (1962) and presently Gaonkar (1996), Gunathilagaraj\r\net al. (1998, 2000), Gupta and Mondal (2005), Haribal (1998),\r\nHeppner (1998), Kumar et al. (2007 a&b), Kunte (2000),\r\nMathew and Rahamathulla (1993), Lewis (1973), Sharma et\r\nal. (2006), Varshney (1993, 1994, 1997) etc. enriched this field.\r\nAlthough India has a rich butterfly fauna, but due to various\r\nreasons such as habitat destruction, fire, use of pesticides\r\nand weedicides and illegal collection for trade, many species\r\nhave become very rare and some are on the verge of\r\nextinction. Therefore, the present study makes a modest\r\nattempt to explore the existing diversity of butterflies from\r\nDholbaha dam.\r\nMATERIAL AND METHODS\r\n(a) Study Area. Dholbaha dam is a man made wetland\r\nin village Dholbaha of district Hoshiarpur (Punjab: India),\r\nwhich is a part of Shivalik hills (9448.97 Km2) of Punjab\r\nstate and lies between latitude 30°34’10.82\" and 32°33’02.96\"\r\nNorth and longitude 74°50’30.30\" and 76°52’51.26\" East.\r\nDholbaha Dam is constructed as under water harvesting\r\nstructure in the year 1987, for controlling the water, which\r\nused to cause heavy loss to the nearby villages. Dholbaha\r\ndam is earth filled dam and area under water is 132 ha. The\r\ntotal catchment area of the Dholbaha dam is 56.14 Km2 and\r\nit is 32 Km from Hoshiarpur town. The Dholbaha dam exists\r\nthroughout the year although the water level may vary, thus\r\nit forms a congenial habitat for large number of aquatic\r\ninsects and fishes. The prevailing climatic condition in\r\nDholbaha dam is typically sub-tropical and north Indian\r\nmonsoon type with distinct summer and winter months. The\r\ntemperature varies between 14°-47°C in summer, where as\r\nbetween 0°-32°C during winter. The south-west monsoon\r\narrives during June and remains till October. The average\r\nannual rainfall varies between 400-600 mm. The forest type\r\naround Dholbaha dam is moist deciduous. For carrying out\r\nthe present studies the total reservoir and surroundings\r\nwere divided into four sectors based on distribution and\r\nthe types of vegetation and topography. In each sector\r\nfive spots were selected according to the maximum availability\r\nof butterfly species.\r\nBiological Forum – An International Journal, 1(1): 12 -17 (2009)\r\nDiversity of Butterflies (Lepidoptera: Insecta) from Dholbaha dam\r\n(Distt. Hoshiarpur) in Punjab Shivalik, India\r\nGaurav Sharma and P.C. Joshi*\r\nDesert Regional Centre, ZSI (Ministry of Environment and Forests), Post-Jhalamand, Jodhpur Rajasthan, INDIA\r\n*Department of Zoology and Environmental Science, Gurukul Kangri Vishwavidayalaya, Haridwar, Uttarakhand, INDIA\r\nABSTRACT : A detailed study on the butterfly species diversity was carried out at Dholbaha dam, in district\r\nHoshiarpur, Punjab, India during 2002-04. The study area has a moist deciduous forest surrounding it. A total of\r\n41 butterfly species belonging to 5 families of order Lepidoptera were recorded during the study period. The\r\nfamily Nymphalidae, represented by 19 species was the most dominant followed by Pieridae (10 species), Lycaenidae\r\n(8 species), Papilionidae (3 species) and Hesperiidae (1 species). Eurema hecabe (Linn.) was the most dominant\r\nspecies of Butterfly in terms of number of individuals followed by Danaus chrysippus (Linn.), Euchrysops cnejus\r\n(Fabr.), Euploea core (Cramer), Junonia lemonias Linn., Catopsilia pyranthe Linn. so on and least by Graphium\r\nsarpedon luctatius Fruhstorfer and Delias eucharis Drury. From the conservation point of view, the study area is\r\nundisturbed and rich in flora and fauna species.\r\nKeywords : Butterfly species diversity, Dholbaha dam, Punjab Shivalik, India\r\nForum — An International Journal, 1(2): 40-44(2009) ISSN : 0975-1130\r\nSharma and Joshi 41\r\n(b) Collection and taxonomic study of Butterfly. An\r\nextensive and regular (monthly) collection of butterfly was\r\nmade during October, 2002 to September, 2004 using a sweep\r\nnet. The collected individuals were transferred into insect\r\ncollection paper packs and were brought to the laboratory,\r\nwhere these were properly stretched, pinned, oven dried for\r\n72 hours at 600C and preserved in collection boxes.\r\nIdentification of adult individuals was carried out using\r\nidentification keys provided by de Niceville (1886, 1890),\r\nMoore (1890-1903), Marshall & de Niceville (1882), Swinhoe\r\n(1893, 1905-1912), Bingham (1905, 1907), Evans (1932), Talbot\r\n(1939, 1947), Wynter-Blyth (1957). All the specimens\r\ncollected from study area deposited in the National\r\nZoological collections maintained by Northern Regional\r\nStation, Zoological Survey of India, Dehra Dun, India.\r\nRESULTS AND DISCUSSION\r\nA total of 41 butterfly species belonging to 5 families\r\nof order Lepidoptera were recorded in Dholbaha Dam during\r\nthe study period and in four sectors of Dholbaha Dam,\r\nsector-IV recorded 30 butterfly species, sector-I 29 species,\r\nsector-III 26 species and sector-II 25 species (Table-1). The\r\nfamily Nymphalidae, represented by 19 species was the most\r\ndominant followed by Pieridae (10 species), Lycaenidae (8\r\nspecies), Papilionidae (3 species) and Hesperiidae (1 species).\r\nEurema hecabe (Linn.) was the most dominant species of\r\nButterfly in terms of number of individuals (247) followed\r\nby Danaus chrysippus (Linn.) (215), Euchrysops cnejus\r\n(Fabr.) (183), Euploea core (Cramer) (164), Junonia lemonias\r\nLinn. (148), Catopsilia pyranthe Linn. (132) so on and least\r\nby Graphium sarpedon luctatius Fruhstorfer (24) and Delias\r\neucharis Drury (21). Hypolimnas misippus (Linn.) is listed\r\nunder Indian Wildlife (Protection) Act, 1972. About 82\r\nspecies of all types of flora/ plants species recorded in and\r\naround Dholbaha Dam. The association between butterflies\r\nand plants is highly specific. Unlike bees, butterflies feed\r\nentirely on nectar, which they obtain through their long\r\nproboscis from flower. Thus pollination, a crucial link in the\r\nsurvival of ecosystem, is one such factor that needs to be\r\nwell understood to develop appropriate strategies for\r\nconservation of the biodiversity.','Gaurav Sharma and P.C. Joshi (2009). Diversity of Butterflies (Lepidoptera: Insecta) from Dholbaha dam (Distt. Hoshiarpur) in Punjab Shivalik, India. Biological Forum – An International Journal 1(2): 40-44.'),(4666,'130','Bioefficacy of certain plant leaf powders against pulse beetle,\r\nCallosobruchus chinensis L. (Coleoptera: Bruchidae)','S.R. Yankanchi and G. S. Lendi*','13_SR_Yank.pdf','',1,'Laboratory experiments were conducted to evaluate the efficiency of leaf powders of Tridax procumbens,\r\nWithania somnifera, Pongamia pinnata and Gliricidia maculata, against the pulse beetle, Callosobruchus chinensis,\r\nwhich infests stored green gram seeds. Dried leaf powders of T. procumbens and W. somnifera (5 mg/g seed) was\r\nfound to be more effective, causing 100% mortality, than leaf powders of P. pinnata and G. maculata (20 mg/g\r\nseed), revealed 73.1 and 69.2% mortality respectively. However, all plant leaf powders showed 100% ovicidal\r\nactivity. No F1 adult emerged at 20 mg/g seed treated with all plant powders. It was concluded that leaf powders\r\nof T. procumbens and W. somnifera showed significant mortality, oviposition deterrence and F1 adult deterrence of\r\nC. chinensis at vary low concentrations.\r\nHence, these leaf powders may be suggested as admixtures in the\r\nintegrated management\r\nof beetle infestation of pulse seeds during storage.','Botanicals, Callosobruchus chinensis, F1 adult deterrence, green gram, mortality, oviposition deterrence','Laboratory experiments were conducted to evaluate the efficiency of leaf powders of Tridax procumbens,\r\nWithania somnifera, Pongamia pinnata and Gliricidia maculata, against the pulse beetle, Callosobruchus chinensis,\r\nwhich infests stored green gram seeds. Dried leaf powders of T. procumbens and W. somnifera (5 mg/g seed) was\r\nfound to be more effective, causing 100% mortality, than leaf powders of P. pinnata and G. maculata (20 mg/g\r\nseed), revealed 73.1 and 69.2% mortality respectively. However, all plant leaf powders showed 100% ovicidal\r\nactivity. No F1 adult emerged at 20 mg/g seed treated with all plant powders. It was concluded that leaf powders\r\nof T. procumbens and W. somnifera showed significant mortality, oviposition deterrence and F1 adult deterrence of\r\nC. chinensis at vary low concentrations.\r\nHence, these leaf powders may be suggested as admixtures in the\r\nintegrated management\r\nof beetle infestation of pulse seeds during storage.','Botanicals, Callosobruchus chinensis, F1 adult deterrence, green gram, mortality, oviposition deterrence','S.R. Yankanchi and G. S. Lendi (2009). Bioefficacy of certain plant leaf powders against pulse beetle, Callosobruchus chinensis L. (Coleoptera: Bruchidae). Biological Forum – An International Journal 1(2): 48-51.'),(4667,'112','Floral Morphology and Floral Phenology of Piper nigrum L.','Pooja S., Sreekala G.S., Vijaykumar B. Narayanapur*, Sreekala A.K., Deepa S. Nair and Sujatha V.S.','309 Floral Morphology and Floral Phenology of Piper nigrum L. Pooja S.pdf','',1,'The research project “Floral morphology and floral phenology of Piper nigrum L. was carried out in the Department of Plantation Crops and Spices, College of Agriculture, Vellayani, Thiruvanthapuram during 2017-2019. The floral morphology revealed light green (145 C) and dark green flower colour (140 A) as per the Royal Horticulture Society Colour Charts. The odour of the flower was fresh floral fruity odour as per the fragrance wheel and the odour was slightly minty. Presence of nectar was noticed on the black pepper flowers. The flowers in the inflorescence complete opening within 9 days from the opening of the first flower and flower opening starts from 4-5pm. The flower size on third day and fourth day of stigma receptivity was 1.51 × 1.32 mm. 48 to 98 flowers in a spike depending on the length of spike. The stigma was 4 lobed, wet type and papillate. The duration of stigma receptivity was there for 7 days from the time of anthesis of flower. The peak stigma receptivity was on fifth day of anthesis. The duration of pollen availability in an inflorescence varied from 9 days in small inflorescences (6 cm) to 12 days (9cm) in long inflorescences. The longevity of flowers varied from 14-15 days. Flower emergence duration ranged from 19 to 20 days. Flowering frequency in black pepper was maximum in the month of july. The flowering intensity was maximum in the fifth day of anthesis. The anthesis period in an inflorescence varied from 9 to 12 days. The maximum anthesis period in a plant was maximum in the month of July and minimum in January and February. The mean days from the emergence of spike till the full emergence of flowers in the spike (duration of spiking) was 26.84 days in a plant. The mean duration of spiking in a plant population was 259.5 days. The fruit is drupe and the period taken from fertilization to maturity varied from 150-175 days. Limited work in breeding as well as hybridization may results of lacking of fundamental information. Hybridization is considered a good breeding methodology to create new variety that is able to resist to Phytophthora capsici and/or nematodes. Successful hybridization is resulted from understanding of flower biology which is further useful for the crop improvement programme.','Phenology, Fertilization, Inflorescences, Pollination, Anthesis','The floral morphology was light green (145 C) and dark green flower colour (140 A). The odour of the flower was fresh floral fruity odour and the odour was slightly minty. Presence of nectar was noticed on the black pepper flowers. The flowers in the inflorescence complete opening within 9 days from the opening of the first flower and flower opening starts from 4-5pm. 48 to 98 flowers in a spike depending on the length of spike. The stigma was 4 lobed, wet type and papillate. The duration of stigma receptivity was there for 7 days from the time of anthesis of flower. The duration of pollen availability in an inflorescence varied from 9 days in small inflorescences (6 cm) to 12 days (9cm) in long inflorescences. The longevity of flowers varied from 14-15 days. Flower emergence duration ranged from 19 to 20 days. Flowering frequency in black pepper was maximum in the month of July. The flowering intensity was maximum in the fifth day of anthesis. The anthesis period in an inflorescence varied from 9 to 12 days. The maximum anthesis period in a plant was maximum in the month of July and minimum in January and February. The fruit is drupe and the period taken from fertilization to maturity varied from 150-175 days.','INTRODUCTION \r\nBlack pepper (Piper nigrum L.) the \'king of spices\' and one of the oldest spices known to mankind belongs to the family Piperaceae. Black pepper originated in the tropical evergreen forests of the Western Ghats of India and is presently largely cultivated in India, Brazil, Indonesia, Malaysia, Sri Lanka, Vietnam and China (Ravindran, 2006). Black pepper is valued for its pungency contributed by the alkaloid piperine (Ravindran, 2006; Nybe et al., 2007) and has numerous reported physiological and drug-like actions (Ravindran, 2006; Nybe et al., 2007). Black pepper is cultivated for its matured dried fruits which is the most widely used spice in the world (Ravindran, 2006).\r\nBlack pepper is a plant that cannot tolerate excessive heat and dryness (Vijayakumar et al., 1984). Black pepper grows successfully between 20° North to 20° South of equator and from sea level up to 1500 m above MSL (Ravindran, 2006; Nybe et al., 2007). It is a plant of humid tropics, requiring 2000 - 3000 mm of rainfall, tropical temperature and high relative humidity with little variation in day length throughout the year. \r\nFloral biology is often correlated with the pollinator mechanisms like nectar and pollen rewards, temporal separation of male and female phases and the arrangement of floral parts which may influence pollen deposition and carry over (Endler, 1979). Floral morphology is factor closely related to breeding system since autogamy only occurs in hermaphrodite or monoecious plants while dioecious plants are always out crossed (Loveless and Hamrick, 1984). Each part of flower may have a special role in one or more events during production and dispersal of gametes and seeds. It is usually assumed that every floral organ has a more or less definite role in pollination but quite often replacement functions are also known (Galen 1999; Dafni and Firmage, 2000). A basic understanding of floral structure, phenology and pollination systems is thus a pre requisite for studies on reproductive biology (Dafni and Firmage, 2000). Study on reproductive biology is essential for developing effective strategies for both in situ and ex situ conservation of species (Moza and Bhatnagar, 2007).\r\nFloral longevity, the length of time a flower remains open and functional, varies among plant species. It is important in understanding pollination ecology (Ashman and Schoen, 1994). Flowers must remain open to contribute to plant fitness through ovule fertilization and pollen dissemination, when they require resources for respiratory maintenance and pollinator attraction (Ashman and Schoen, 1994).\r\nPhenology is the timing of biological events and their relationship to seasonal climatic changes (Austin, 1972). Therefore, the detailed information regarding the phenology is a pre-requisite for the studies on the floral biology and breeding system (Bawa et al., 1990). Temperature, moisture and photoperiod are the three known factors that affect the phenology (growth and reproduction) of both plants and their pollinators (Sun et al., 2009). Timing of flowering helps in maintaining reproductive isolation and in reducing competition for pollinators. Hence, in any pollination ecology study, it is important to record observations on flowering phenology of the crop (Belavadi, and Ganeshaiah 2013). Floral phenology has to be recorded frequently in time 1-4 h depending on the species for several days (Shivanna and Tandon 2014). \r\nRainfall of 70 mm received in 20 days during May – June is required for triggering off flushing and flowering processes in the plant, but once the process is set off there should be continuous shower until fruit ripening. Any dry spell even for a few days, within this critical period of 16 weeks (flowering to fruit ripening) results in low yield (Pillay et al., 1988). The study of phenological aspects of plants involves the observation, recording and interpretation of the timing of their life history events and many studies on flowering time stress the role of interactions between plant species which share pollinators or predators (Zhang et al, 2015). Plant phenological study has great significance because it not only provides knowledge about plant growth pattern but it also provides the idea on the effects of environment and selective pressure on flowering and fruiting behaviour (Zhang et al, 2015). The variation in flowering and fruiting patterns may affect the degree of genetic variability in the ensuring offspring of each species therefore, observing phenological event as a crucial step in reproductive biological studies. For plants, recurrent biological events include vegetative processes such as leaf flushing and shedding as well as reproductive events such as bud formation, flowering and production of fruits (Francis et al., 2007). \r\nMATERIALS AND METHODS\r\nExperiment was be carried out in black pepper variety Panniyur-1 in the field grown pepper plants and bush pepper plants maintained in pots. Twenty-five plants of black pepper variety, Panniyur 1 of uniform age grown in the Instructional Farm, College of Agriculture, Vellayani was selected and marked for the study. The plants were observed from March 2018 to March 2019 for studying the floral initiation, floral morphology and floral phenology. Instructional Farm in College of Agriculture, Vellayani is located at 8.5° North latitude and 76.9° East latitude at an altitude of 29 m above MSL. Field plants of black pepper maintained at Instruction Farm and bush pepper plants in pots maintained in the Department of Plantation Crops and Spices, College of Agriculture, Vellayani were used as study material. \r\nStudy on floral morphology and floral phenology of black pepper. The time of emergence of first flower to last flower in an inflorescence was recorded in twenty-five black pepper plants in field during the flowering period. Fifty inflorescences altogether were sampled to record the floral morphology.\r\nFlower colour. The observation on flower colour were made for 100 flowers of fifty inflorescences from first day of anthesis to last day of anthesis by comparing them with Royal Horticultural Society colour chart.\r\nFlower odour. Fifty flowers were collected from first day of opening of stigma and placed in glass vials and closed for 5 min, 30 min and 6 hrs to allow the accumulation of floral scent and was smelled. (Braunschmid et al., 2017). \r\nPresence of nectar. Twenty-five inflorescences were taken and using insulin syringe of 1 ml capacity and nectar was drawn from thirty-five flowers from each inflorescence on third day of stigma opening when there was maximum accumulation (Morrant et al., 2009).\r\nFlower opening time. The pepper flowers are devoid of corolla and calyx and hence emergence of stigma was recorded as the flower opening time. Observation on flower opening time was recorded in 50 inflorescences at random on 25 plants in the field at intervals of 6 h from 6 am to 12 noon, 12 noon to 6pm and 6 pm to 12 midnight and 12 midnight to 6 am from June to July when flowering intensity was maximum. Based on the result, the period of flower opening was reduced between 12 noon to 12 midnight on hourly basis to record the time when maximum flower opening occurs.\r\nFlower size. The length and breadth of flower at full emergence of the stigma (third day to fifth day of stigma emergence) were measured from six flowers of five inflorescences taken under the microscope Leica MZ95 with scale inserted and measured the length and breadth of flower in millimeter.\r\nNumber of flowers per spike. Fifty inflorescences from selected twenty-five plants in the field were selected and tagged. The observation was recorded by counting number of flowers in a spike after the completion of anthesis.\r\nNumber of anthers/flowers. Fifty flowers were selected from twenty-five inflorescence and were tagged. Each flower was observed for anther emergence and counted the number of anthers per flower.\r\nAnther dehiscence time. Fifty inflorescences were selected and tagged from twenty-five plants. Observation regarding time of anthesis were recorded from the time of anther emergence till it dehisce and loose completely. The data were recorded from 10 am to 4 pm at one hour interval and the dehisced anthers were removed from the spike after each count, to avoid recounting.\r\nAnther dehiscence mode. Fifty flowers were selected from fifty inflorescence and tagged. Each flower were observed for anther emergence to the dehiscence of anther and the mode of dehiscence was found out.\r\nStigma type. Twenty-five stigmas of fifty inflorescences of different plants were selected. The observation was made by taking out the stigma by using the sharp needle from the flower and pressing gently the stigma with fingers on the petridish lined with filter paper to understand the type of stigma whether it is dry or wet type.\r\nStigma receptivity. Two flowers each from five inflorescences of black pepper plants grown in the field which were observed for 8 days from the emergence of stigma. The stigma receptivity were observed by hydrogen peroxide method and different stages of stigma development were observed through stereomicroscope and photographed.\r\nDuration of stigma receptivity. The observation was made for 8 days from the opening of stigma. Bubbling in presence of hydrogen peroxide was considered as a positive result (Osborn et al. 1988) when the stigmas were analyzed with H2O2 method (Dafni 1992). The different development stages of stigma emergence were described.\r\nFlower longevity. Flower longevity was recorded based on the length of time the flower remained open and functional. Flower was judged to be open when the perianth appeared to be fresh, with the stamens presenting pollen, or when the stigma appeared fresh. A flower was considered to be senescent when the corolla fell apart or was discolored and wilted, or when the stamens were wilted and empty of pollen and the stigma discolored (Primack, 1985). Since black pepper does not have perianth the longevity can be assessed by stigma remaining fresh and pollen being present. Black pepper plant being protogynous the longevity of the flower can be considered when the pollen being present and remain fresh. The data was expressed in days.\r\nAnatomical observation of floral morphology. Morphology of the flower and flower parts were studied by using a hand lens and a compound microscope.\r\nFlower emergence duration. Fifty flowers were observed from the time of full emergence of spike to the bud initiation at two days interval until the convex shape is formed and then fixed in a solution of formalin, acetic acid and alcohol under a stereoscopic microscope (Marafon et al., 2010).\r\nFlowering frequency. Twenty-five plants were recorded for observation. These plants were tracked with time and from date of first flowering of any plant, number of plants in flowering was recorded each day till all of them stop flowering. From this frequency or proportion of plants that are in flowering (Pi) on any given day was arrived as Pid. The Pid may be plotted on a graph along days.\r\nFlowering intensity. Five plants were selected and five inflorescences from each plant was marked for observation. The number of opened flowers in each inflorescence was observed till all flowers were opened in an inflorescence. The intensity of flowering was computed as the average number of flowers opening per inflorescence each day (fid). This data was plotted against days.\r\nAnthesis period in an inflorescence. Fifty inflorescences were selected and tagged from twenty-five plants. Observations were recorded from the first day of opening of the flower in an inflorescence to the last day of opening of the last flower in the inflorescence.\r\nAnthesis period in a plant. Five plants were selected and tagged. The time taken from the opening of the first formed flower till the day when the last flower in the last formed inflorescence is recorded as the anthesis period in a plant.\r\nDuration of spiking in the plant. Fifty inflorescences were selected and tagged. The observation was made by counting the days from the emergence of first spike till the full emergence of flowers in the spike. The observations were recorded for March 2018 to March 2019.\r\nDuration of spiking in the plant population. The observation was recorded for March 2018 to March 2019. The observation was made by counting the emergence of first spike to last spike in the five plants.\r\nFruit maturation period from fertilization. Fifty inflorescences were selected and tagged from twenty-five plants. Artificial pollination was carried out in 8 flowers in an inflorescence and the number of days taken from fertilization to fruit maturity was recorded by color change of one or two fruits from green to red. The data was measured in number of days.\r\nRESULTS AND DISCUSSION\r\nFlower colour. The flower colour noticed in hundred flowers collected from twenty-five inflorescences of twenty-five field grown black pepper plants revealed Light green (149 C) to Dark green (140 A) colour as per the Royal Horticulture Society colour charts. Out of hundred flowers observed fifty-two were Light green (149 C) and 48 flowers were Dark green (140 A) has been shown in Fig. 1. The bract colour varied from Yellow (3 B) to Light green (140 A) as per the Royal Horticultural Society colour charts. The flower colour of black pepper observed were Light green,149C (52%) and were Dark green,140A (48%). According to Figuerido and Sazima (2000) flower colour of Piper nigrum was creamy, yellowish or whitish. Ravindran (2006) reported that when spike is young it was green or whitish green, or light purple and when mature it was green, pale purple or pale yellow.\r\nThe presence of fresh floral fruity odour was noticed as per the fragrance wheel. The odour of fifty black pepper flowers kept in closed glass container was slightly minty during the first five minutes and increased to strong minty after 30 minutes and started losing the odour and became light minty odour six hours after keeping in closed containers as revealed by ten panel members. Tebbs (1989) reported lemon or lime odour in some Mesoamerican Piperaceae species and was probably reported as the most widespread odour in the family. Sweet lemon or lime odour in P. amalago P. arboreum P. crassinervium P. gaudichaudianum P. glabratum P. macedoi , P. mikanianum P. mollicomum P. regnelli, P. xylosteoides, Ottoniamartiana, Ottoniapropinqua, Pothomorphe umbellate except for P. aduncum whose flowers were scentless as reported by Figuerido and Sazima (2000).\r\nPresence of nectar. Presence of nectar was noticed in the flower between the bract and stigma and the amount of nectar varied from 23 to 25 µl as observed from thirty-five stigma of one inflorescence. The mean of nectar content from thirty-five stigma of fifty inflorescences were 24.08 µl. The mean nectar content of one flower is 1.45µl. Nectar was not discernible in the flowers, as observed for other Piper species according to Fleming (1985).\r\n Flower opening time. The flower opening time was taken from fifty inflorescences of twenty-five black pepper plants grown in the field for eight days and maximum flower opening was observed at 6-7 pm followed by 4-5pm and 7-8 pm (Graph 1). According to Kanakamany (1982) anthesis of black pepper was from 7.30-8.30 pm. According to Ravindran (2006) anthesis in black pepper took place during 4 pm. Nybe et al. (2007) reported anthesis in black pepper as from 6-6.30pm.\r\nAnther dehiscence mode. Anther dehiscence mode was obtained from fifty flowers of fifty inflorescences taken from twenty-five black pepper plants grown in the field. All black pepper flowers showed longitudinal dehiscence. Stereomicroscopic observation of anther dehiscence opening revealed longitudinal splitting of anther to release the pollen. \r\nAnther dehiscence time. The anther dehiscence of fifty inflorescences from twenty-five black pepper plants grown in the field were taken from first day of anther dehiscence to ninth day. The mean anther dehiscence time in a spike is given in table 8. Anther dehiscence occurred from 11 am and continued till 4 pm and was maximum at 2-3 pm (Graph 2). According to Nybe et al. (2007) anther dehiscence took place between 14.30-15.30 hrs (2.30-3.30 pm). \r\nFlower size of black pepper (Piper nigrum L.). The length and breadth of thirty flower was taken on third day, fourth day and fifth day. On third day and fourth day the mean length of flower was 1.51 mm and mean breadth of flowers was 1.32 mm. The flower size was maximum (1.53 × 1.34 mm) on the fifth day of stigma receptivity.\r\n Number of flowers per spike. The average number of flowers per spike was carried out from fifty inflorescences of twenty-five black pepper plants grown in the field. The number of flowers per spike varied from 49-98 flowers as shown in the Fig. 3 and it depends on the length of the spike.\r\n Stigma type. Twenty-five stigmas of fifty inflorescences taken from twenty-five black pepper plants grown in the field revealed the presence of four lobes in each stigma.Stigma was wet type and papillate. Scanning Electron Microscopic image of stigma is shown in Fig. 4. Ravindran (2006) observed the stigma of black pepper as 3-5 lobed and papillate.Stigma receptivity. Two flowers each were taken from five inflorescences of black pepper plants grown in the field were observed for stigma receptivity for 8 days from the emergence of stigma. The stigma receptivity by hydrogen peroxide test revealed stigma receptivity for 7 days. Maximum bubble was counted on fifth day of emergence of stigma. Stereomicroscopic image of stigma through hydrogen peroxide is shown in Fig. 5. According to Chen et al. (2018) the stigma was more receptive from 2-6 days in black pepper. Stigmatic receptivity restricts the successful pollination in a plant. Stigma receptivity is the ability of stigma to support the viable and compatible pollen to generate. The receptivity of stigmas can be characterized by assaying the activity of several enzymes such as peroxidase, esterase, alcohol dehydrogenase and acid phosphatase (Shivanna and Sastri, 1981). In the present study peroxidase enzyme was checked and peroxidase enzyme of stigma released the oxygen bubbles with hydrogen peroxide treatment which was counted. On the eighth day, no bubbles were seen and the stigma was dried up.\r\nDuration of stigma receptivity. The stigma receptivity was observed for 8 days. The duration of stigma receptivity was for seven days as revealed from hydrogen peroxide test. The different developmental stages of stigma observed through stereomicroscope can be described as follows in Fig. 6. According to Ravindran, 2006 the period of receptivity of stigma varies from 3–9 days. According to Kalinganire et al. (2000) it was for 10 days and Nybe et al. (2007) reported 7 days. Stigma remains receptive from 4 days to 6 days and up to 10 days (Quyen et al., 2019).\r\nFlower longevity. Pollen being present and remain fresh in a flower after 14 -15 days of stigma emergence and is considered as the longevity of the flower.\r\nAnatomical observation of floral morphology. The cross and longitudinal section of the immature spikes \r\nrevealed the rudimentary structures of ovary and stamens under stereomicroscope and is shown in the Fig. 7 and 8. Through these tests it was possible to observe the germination of pollen tube.\r\nFlower emergence duration. The time period taken from bud initiation of individual flower to full emergence of flower is 19-20 days.\r\nFlowering frequency. The Flowering frequency in black pepper was maximum in the month of July and minimum in January and February and shown in Graph 3. Flowering intensity. The average number of flowers opened per inflorescence each day represented as flowering intensity was maximum on the fifth day of anthesis (Graph 4).\r\nAnthesis period in an inflorescence. The anthesis period in inflorescence varied from 9 days (6 cm) in small inflorescence and 12 days (9 cm) in long inflorescence. The duration of pollen availability in an inflorescence varied from 9 days in small inflorescence (6 cm) to 12 days (9 cm) in long inflorescence (Graph 4). The pollen release was complete in 9 days in small inflorescence which means that pollen release occurred during the time of stigma receptive period itself, substantiating self-pollination. Four anthers are there and are released at different time and hence the duration of availability of pollen per inflorescence is more.\r\nAnthesis period in the plant. The anthesis period in a plant was maximum in the month of July and minimum in the month of February and January.\r\nDuration of spiking in the plant. The emergence of spike till the full emergence in a spike varied from 23-30 days. The mean duration of spiking was 26.84 days in a plant.\r\nDuration of spiking in the plant population. The observation was recorded for 1 year from emergence of first spike to last spike in five plants. The mean duration of spiking in a plant population was maximum in the month of June – July and minimum in the month of February (Graph 5). In a black pepper plant the pollen availability varied from 27 days in the month of July to 0 in the month of March 2018. Throughout the year except in the month of March, pollen was available due to the presence of spike formed. The data on mean rainfall during the period from March 2018 to March 2019 substantiates the spike formation (Appendix 11). However, the maximum pollen availability was in the month of June– July which corresponds to the maximum production of spikes during these periods (Fig. 5).\r\nFruit maturation period from fertilization. Fifty inflorescences taken from twenty-five black pepper plants grown in the field and the artificial pollination was carried out in 8 flowers in an inflorescence and the number of days taken from fertilization to fruit maturity was recorded by color change of one or two fruits from green. The fruit is a drupe and the period taken from fertilization to maturity varied from 150-175 days. Pepper fruit takes 6–8 months for full maturity from flowering, depending upon variety and the average being 7 months (Ravindran, 2006). ','Pooja S., Sreekala G.S., Vijaykumar B. Narayanapur, Sreekala A.K., Deepa S Nair and Sujatha V.S. (2022). Floral Morphology and Floral Phenology of Piper nigrum L. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 14(1): 1779-1787.');
INSERT INTO `pdf_upload` VALUES (4668,'130','Distribution of orthopteran insects among different habitats in three\r\ndistricts of Madhya Pradesh, India','Kailash Chandra, S.K. Gupta and Rajesh Kumar','14_Kailash.pdf','',1,'During the survey in 2009, altogether 398 specimens of Orthoptera belonging to 27 species under\r\n27 genera and 8 families were collected from different localities of Satna, Katni and Damoh districts by the\r\nsurvey team of Zoological Survey of India, Jabalpur. The family Acrididae was found to be the most predominant\r\ngroup of grasshoppers represented by 11 species, followed by the family Tettigoniidae, represented by 4 species\r\nand 4 genera. Among the different habitats, grasses supported the highest number of species (17) followed by the\r\nPaddy field (8).','Orthoptera, Habitats, Madhya Pradesh','During the survey in 2009, altogether 398 specimens of Orthoptera belonging to 27 species under\r\n27 genera and 8 families were collected from different localities of Satna, Katni and Damoh districts by the\r\nsurvey team of Zoological Survey of India, Jabalpur. The family Acrididae was found to be the most predominant\r\ngroup of grasshoppers represented by 11 species, followed by the family Tettigoniidae, represented by 4 species\r\nand 4 genera. Among the different habitats, grasses supported the highest number of species (17) followed by the\r\nPaddy field (8).','The orthopteran insects are almost terrestrial in habitats,\r\nfound in trees, bushes, and other vegetation, from\r\nsubterranean burrows and caves to tree tops, and from dense\r\nforest to savanna, prairie, and desert, but a few species are\r\naquatic or semi-aquatic. The orthopteran include general\r\nscavengers, many voracious herbivorous, and some\r\nomnivorous, or at least polyphagous species. Most of the\r\nspecies are active, diurnal (most Caelifera), or nocturnal\r\n(many Ensifera) insects. Many species are camouflaged by\r\ncolouration that resemble the background or foliage.\r\nTemperature, rain fall and soil conditions are some important\r\nfactors, which determine the distribution of the orthopteran\r\ninsects.\r\nThe orthopteran insects feeding on crops and trees are\r\nmost common biotic constituents of the grazing food chain.\r\nDifferent food chains are often interconnected, e.g. a specific\r\nherbivore of one food chain may serve as food of carnivores\r\nof several other food chains. These insects are also food\r\nfor mammals, many birds, reptiles, amphibians and other\r\npredators.\r\nPhipps (1970) classified the grasshoppers habitats into\r\n5 principle categories- thicket, woodland, long grass, short\r\ngrass and cultivation, wherein he found that the species of\r\nsubfamilies viz. Acridinae, Gomphocerinae, Hemiacridinae and\r\nTruxalinae were restricted to grasses and cultivation, while\r\nCatantopinae were found in thicket, with a number of species\r\npreferring grasses.\r\nThe species of superfamily Acridoidea are highly\r\neconomically important, which cause considerable damage\r\nto the crops and vegetable plants or forests. Coleman and\r\nKannan (1911), Pruthi and Nigam (1939), Roonwal (1976),\r\nand Mandal et al. (1999) have also recorded some species\r\nof Acridoidea as a pest of crops and vegetables.\r\nGastrimargus marmorata a species from South-east Asia,\r\nAssam to West Guinea, damages maize, rice, sorghum, citrus,\r\nsugarcanes, cocoa and oil palm (Roffey, 1979).\r\nThe major pest of paddy is Hieroglypus banian\r\n(Fabricius) reported by Bhatia and Mathur (1964).\r\nChowdhury and Majid (1954) reported this pest on rice from\r\nAssam. Sengupta and Behura (1960) estimated rice loss\r\nranging from 25 to 95% in different parts of India by this\r\npest. Hieroglyphus nigrorepletus is also reported pest of\r\nrice, sugar cane, hemp, maize, and sorghum in the Indo-\r\nPakistan (Ghouri and Ahmed, 1960). Roychoudhury et al.\r\n(2003) reported 5 species of Orthoptera defoliating teak\r\nplantation in Madhya Pradesh. Joshi et al. (2004) reported\r\n12 species of Orthoptera from various host plants in Kanha\r\nNational Park, Madhya Pradesh. The studies conducted by\r\nKandibane et. al. (2004) also indicated that Acrididae is\r\ndominant family in rice ecosystem. Mandal et. al. (2007)\r\nreported 38 species short-horned grasshoppers as pests of\r\nvarious crops. Recently, Paulraj et al. (2009) discussed these\r\ninsects among the different habitats, where grasses\r\nsupported the highest number of species in two districts of\r\nTamil Nadu.\r\nThe orthopteran insects are the dominant above ground\r\ninvertebrates in pastures and natural grasslands (Scott et\r\nal., 1979; Risser et al., 1981). Orthopteran insects cause\r\nsignificant damage to tree seedlings and agricultural crops\r\n(Joshi et al., 1999). On the basis of host preference, Isely\r\n(1944) classified these grasshoppers as grass feeders\r\n(graminivorous), forb-feeders (forbivorous ) or a mix of these\r\ntwo (ambivorous or mixed feeders).\r\nThe population decrease and fragmentation of many\r\ngrasshoppers and katydids is mainly determined by grazing\r\nand landscape disturbances (building and road construction,\r\nploughing , irrigation (Sergeev, 1998). In recent years, farmers\r\nare changing the cropping pattern and agronomical practices\r\ndue to urbanization, labour problem and to get more profit\r\nfrom other crops. The changing scenario in agricultural is\r\naffecting the primary consumers like grasshoppers and\r\nthereby creating an impact on food web. So it is necessary\r\nto study the distribution of grasshoppers in relation to their\r\nhabitats or host plants. Therefore, the present study was\r\nundertaken.\r\nDistribution of orthopteran insects among different habitats in three\r\ndistricts of Madhya Pradesh, India\r\nKailash Chandra, S.K. Gupta and Rajesh Kumar*\r\nZoological Survey of India, Jabalpur (M.P.)\r\n*Division of Entomology, IARI, New Delhi INDIA\r\nABSTRACT : During the survey in 2009, altogether 398 specimens of Orthoptera belonging to 27 species under\r\n27 genera and 8 families were collected from different localities of Satna, Katni and Damoh districts by the\r\nsurvey team of Zoological Survey of India, Jabalpur. The family Acrididae was found to be the most predominant\r\ngroup of grasshoppers represented by 11 species, followed by the family Tettigoniidae, represented by 4 species\r\nand 4 genera. Among the different habitats, grasses supported the highest number of species (17) followed by the\r\nPaddy field (8).\r\nKeywords : Orthoptera, Habitats, Madhya Pradesh\r\nBiological Forum – An International Journal, Forum — An International Journal, 1(21)(:1 5):2-1527(-21070(92)009) ISSN : 0975-1130\r\nChandra, Gupta and Kumar 53\r\nMATERIALS AND METHODS\r\nCollection from the various localities of Satna, Katni\r\nand Damoh districts of Madhya Pradesh carried out during\r\nJanuary 2009 are mentioned below :\r\nSatna : Amarpatan, Chitrakoot, Kusedi, Maihar and\r\nNagod (09th to 12th January, 2009)\r\nKatni : Barhi, Bilhari, Deemerkheda, Tejgarh and\r\nVijayraghavgarh (13th to 17th January, 2009).\r\nDamoh : Bayrama river, Ghatpipariya, Tendukheda,\r\nTejgarh, (18th to 21st January,2009).\r\nData of these insects feeding on host plants were also\r\ncollected from grasses, wheat, sugarcane, potato, paddy\r\nfield, mahua leaves, gram, bamboo, sal, teak, tendu, palasbel,\r\nsoil etc.\r\nRESULTS AND DISCUSSION\r\nA total of 27 species belonging to 27 genera under 8\r\nfamilies viz., Tettigoniidae, Gryllotalpidae, Gryllidae,\r\nOecanthidae, Trigonidiidae, Acrididae, Pyrgomorphidae and\r\nTetrigidae of Orthopteran insects were collected from different\r\nhost plants and habitats (Table 1).\r\nFamily Acrididae was the most dominant among all the\r\ncollected families in terms of no of individuals (125) 57.60%\r\nand total no of species 11 (40.74%). Tettigoniidae was the\r\nsecond largest family with no of individuals (24) 11.06 %\r\nand total no of species 4 (14.81%).\r\nThe family Acrididae collected from 8 different habitats\r\nsuch as wheat, gram, sugarcane, paddy, soil, grass, sal,\r\nmahua plants etc. is well adapted for colonizing in different\r\nhabitats and to utilize a wide range of host plant materials\r\nas their feed. Among the different habitats, grasses were\r\nfound to be the most preferred habitats for 17 species\r\n(24.67%). According to Bernays & Chapman (1978) secondary\r\nplant chemicals are largely absent from grasses and hence\r\nthe gramnivorous grasshoppers escape from the action of\r\nsecondary plant metabolites. Next to grasslands, more\r\nnumber of grasshoppers (9 species: 13.04%)) was collected\r\nfrom paddy field, followed by the sugarcane with 8 species\r\n(11.59%) and wheat crops fields with 7 species (10.14%). In\r\nthis study, 8 species were collected from single host plant,\r\n10 species were collected from two host plants, 7 species\r\nwere collected from 3 host plants and 2 species were\r\ncollected from 5 host plants (Table 2).','Kailash Chandra, S.K. Gupta and Rajesh Kumar (2009). Distribution of orthopteran insects among different habitats in three districts of Madhya Pradesh, India. Biological Forum – An International Journal 1(2): 52-57'),(4669,'112','Performance Analysis of Ridge Gourd (Luffa acutangula (L.) Roxb.) Genotypes for Growth, Yield and Yield Related Characters','Shilpashree, N.*, M. Anjanappa, R.K. Ramachandra, B. Fakrudin4, M. Pitchaimuthu, K.S. Shankarappa and Aravind Kumar, J.S.','310 Performance Analysis of Ridge Gourd _Luffa acutangula _L._ Roxb._ Genotypes for Growth, Yield and Yield Related Characters Shilpashree N.pdf','',1,'An experiment trail on ridge gourd (Luffa acutangula (L.) Roxb.) genotypes for growth, yield and yield related characters viz., vine length, number of branches per vine, days to first female flowering, days to 50 per cent flowering, node at first female flower appears, days to first fruit harvest, days to last fruit harvest, sex ratio, per cent fruit set, number of fruits per vine, average fruit weight, fruit length, fruit diameter, fruit yield per vine, number of ridges per fruit, flesh thickness and rind thickness was conducted at the Vegetable Research Block, College of Horticulture, UHS Campus, Bengaluru, India during Rabi-2019 with 55 genotypes of ridge gourd. The genotype COHBG-42 recorded maximum value for vine length (4.17m), number of branches per vine (7.83), days to last fruit harvest (106.35), per cent fruit set (49.34), number of fruits per vine (18.56), average fruit weight (205.12g), fruit length (37.38cm), fruit yield per vine (4.06kg), flesh thickness (3.71 cm) and minimum value for sex ratio (12.69) and rind thickness (1.34 mm). COHBRG-48 took minimum number of days to first female flowering (33.09), days to 50 per cent flowering (34.23) and days to first fruit harvest (44.55). The genotype COHBRG-18 took least number of nodes at first female flower appearance (8.53). The genotype COHBG-42 was found to be most promising genotype for various traits studied and hence it can be used for further crop improvement programmes like hybridization and evaluation.','Ridge gourd, fruit yield per vine, hybridization, growth','The present study concluded that crop improvement of ridge gourd can be done through by including the genotype COHBRG-42 in breeding programme which gives higher possible yield of 4.06 kg per vine to improve yield potential in ridge gourd.','INTRODUCTION\r\nRidge gourd is an important tropical cucurbitaceous vegetable grown throughout India and South-East Asia. It has immense potential as a vegetable crop and the fruits contain 0.5 per cent protein, 3.4 per cent carbohydrate, 35μg carotene and 18 mg vitamin C/100g of edible portion. Ridge gourd fruit is used as disinfectant, antihelmintic, anti-diarrhea, anti-syphilitic and laxative agent (Ram, 2010) and it also contains the gelatinous compound which has many other medicinal properties. Ridge gourd contains the gelatinous compound which has many other medicinal properties. Ridge gourd is a monoecious and highly cross pollinated vegetable with a large amount of variations were observed for most of the economically important traits. The role of genetic variability in crops is of paramount importance in selecting the best genotypes for making rapid improvement in yield and related characters as well as to select the most potential parents for making the hybridization programme successful. Collection and evaluation of available germplasm is a prerequisite for their utilization while detailed evaluation determines the potential of a germplasm in specific crop improvement programme. Therefore, a trail for evaluating the available ridge gourd germplasm was carried out to identify the potential genotype with desirable growth, yield and yield related characters.\r\nMATERIALS AND METHODS\r\nThe experiment was carried out at experimental field of Department of Vegetable Science, College of Horticulture, Bengaluru, Karnataka, during 2019-20. The experiment was laid out in a Randomized Block Design with two replications. Each replication consisted of fifty-five genotypes which were collected from different locations. The population of ten plants per genotype was maintained by the sowing of seeds at a spacing of 1.50 m to 1.00 m apart. The genotypes were evaluated for different growth, yield and yield related characters viz., vine length, number of branches per vine, days to first female flowering, days to 50 per cent flowering, node at first female flower appears, days to first fruit harvest, days to last fruit harvest, sex ratio, per cent fruit set, number of fruits per vine, average fruit weight, fruit length, fruit diameter, fruit yield per vine, number of ridges per fruit, flesh thickness and rind thickness. The data collected to statistical analysis adopting standard procedures of analysis (Panse and Sukhatme 1978).\r\nRESULTS AND DISCUSSION\r\nThe analysis of variance for different characters for fifty five ridge gourd genotypes were highly significant difference among the genotypes for most of the characters studied except number of ridges per fruit.The per se performance of different genotypes evaluated for growth, yield and yield related characters is presented in Table 1. The character vine length is an important yield component by which growth and vigor of vines are measured. In the present study, the genotypes showed significant differences for vine length and ranged from 1.97 m (COHBRG-2) to 4.17 m (COHBRG-42) with an average mean of 3.06 m. The genotype COHBRG-42 had maximum number of branches per vine (7.83) and minimum number of branches per vine (4.07) occurred in the genotype COHBRG-4. The maximum length of vine and more number of branches offers the possibility for setting up of flowers, thus ultimately increasing the fruit yield per vine. Similar findings were reported by Varalakshmi et al. (2015); Koppad et al. (2015); Bhargava et al. (2017); Rathore et al. (2017); Ramesh et al. (2018).\r\nEarliness is one of the important attributes for good variety/hybrid which is measured in terms of days to first female flowering, days to 50 per cent flowering, node at first female flowering and days to first fruit harvest. The genotypes showed significant differences for early characters and the genotype COHBRG-48 took minimum number of days to first female flowering (33.09) and days to 50 per cent flowering (34.23) with the mean of 40.19 and 43.92, respectively. The maximum number of days to first female flowering (46.47)and days to 50 per cent flowering (54.57) was observed in the genotype COHBRG-15.The genotypeCOHBRG-18 took least number of nodes at first female flower appearance (8.53) and COHBRG-47 took a greater number of nodes (16.78). Among the genotypes, COHBRG-48 took minimum number of days to first fruit harvest (44.55) and maximum number of days to first fruit harvest was 53.78 (COHBRG-51) with a mean of 48.03. The genotype COHBRG-24 took minimum number of days to last fruit harvest (72.21) and COHBRG-42 took maximum days to last fruit harvest (106.35) and average was 86.05 days. Similar results were found with Ramesh et al. (2018); Kannan et al. (2019); Palghadmal et al. (2019); Talukder et al. (2019).\r\nLow sex ratio is favorable trait in cucurbits and in the present study, the mean sex ratio among the ridge gourd genotypes was 19.96. Genotype COHBRG-42 reported less sex ratio (12.69) and genotype COHBRG-12 recorded higher sex ratio (23.77) among the different ridge gourd genotype. Per cent fruit set was significantly higher in the genotype COHBRG-42 (49.34), whereas lowest in the genotype COHBRG-11 (33.50) with an average of 41.37. Similar results were obtained by Rani and Jansirani (2014); Koppad et al. (2015); Rathore et al. (2017); Kannan et al. (2019); Ramesh et al. (2018). \r\nIn the crop improvement programme of ridge gourd, more number of female flowers is expected in genotypes than male flowers, since the yield can be maximized with high possibility of fruit set per cent. Mean number of fruits per vine was maximum in COHBRG-42 (18.56) and minimum was recorded in COHBRG-6 (7.97) with a mean of 12.15. Similar results are found with Bhargava et al. (2017); Karthik et al. (2017); Khan et al. (2017); Kannan et al. (2019). Among the different genotypes, significantly higher fruit weight was recorded in COHBRG-32 (43.14 g), whereas lowest was recorded in COHBRG-42 (205.12 g) with an average mean of 126.57 g. The significant higher fruit length was observed in COHBRG-42 (37.28cm), whereas lowest in COHBRG-5(10.87cm) with an average mean of 19.90 cm and higher fruit diameter was observed in COHBRG-40 (15.73 cm) and least in COHBRG-49(12.82 cm). Krishnamoorthy and Ananthan (2017); Kannan et al. (2019); Talukder et al. (2019); Palghadmal et al. (2019) were also obtained with similar results. \r\nThe less number of ridges per fruit was noticed in the genotype COHBRG-44 (6.62) and more in COHBRG-13 (10.84). The genotypes differed significantly with regard to fruit yield per vine, the genotype COHBRG-42 (4.06 kg) recorded highest fruit yield per vine and least recorded in COHBRG-33 (1.20 kg). Karthik et al. (2017); Khan et al. (2017); Kannan et al. (2019) were also found similar results. The higher thickness of flesh was noticed in the genotype COHBRG-41 (3.71 cm) and lower in COHBRG-20 (2.01 cm). The least rind thickness of fruit was recorded in the genotype COHBRG-41 (1.34 mm) and higher in COHBRG-23 (2.19 mm). The similar results were found with Koppad et al. (2015); Ramesh et al. (2018); Kannan et al. (2019).','Shilpashree N., M. Anjanappa, R.K. Ramachandra, B. Fakrudin, M. Pitchaimuthu, K.S. Shankarappa and Aravind Kumar J.S. (2022). Performance Analysis of Ridge Gourd (Luffa acutangula (L.) Roxb.) Genotypes for Growth, Yield and Yield Related Characters. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 14(1): 1788-1792.'),(4670,'130','Incidence of dengue and shifting trend to rural in Kolhapur\r\nDistrict, India','M.B. Jagtap, L.S. Sale, A.S. Bhosale, Asawari Sathe and T.V. Sathe','15_MB_Jagtap.pdf','',1,'Kolhapur is situated southwest corner of Maharashtra. The district is abundant in natural resources,\r\nwater soil, natural vegetation, animal wealth and minerals. Kolhapur is one of the most agriculturally advanced\r\ndistricts of not only Maharashtra but also India. Dengue is serious life threatening health problem of developing\r\ncountries. In Kolhapur districts the highest cases were found in year 2003 (47) and lowest in 2006 (2). The trend\r\nof incidence of dengue is shifting from urban to rural areas due to large scale development activities, rapid\r\ntransportation, industrialization, urbanization, changing life style of human being, lack of adequate water supply\r\nand electric supply resulting into traditional water storage practices in community, failure in dry day once in\r\nweek, refusal for emptying the containers, no proper cleaning of cement containers, no protection to storage\r\nwater, refusal to temiphos application and less social involvement in health education. The above conditions\r\nfavored proliferation of Aedes mosquitoes and ultimately shifting the incidence of dengue to rural area.','Dengue, Incidence, Urban to rural, Kolhapur, India','Kolhapur is situated southwest corner of Maharashtra. The district is abundant in natural resources,\r\nwater soil, natural vegetation, animal wealth and minerals. Kolhapur is one of the most agriculturally advanced\r\ndistricts of not only Maharashtra but also India. Dengue is serious life threatening health problem of developing\r\ncountries. In Kolhapur districts the highest cases were found in year 2003 (47) and lowest in 2006 (2). The trend\r\nof incidence of dengue is shifting from urban to rural areas due to large scale development activities, rapid\r\ntransportation, industrialization, urbanization, changing life style of human being, lack of adequate water supply\r\nand electric supply resulting into traditional water storage practices in community, failure in dry day once in\r\nweek, refusal for emptying the containers, no proper cleaning of cement containers, no protection to storage\r\nwater, refusal to temiphos application and less social involvement in health education. The above conditions\r\nfavored proliferation of Aedes mosquitoes and ultimately shifting the incidence of dengue to rural area.','Malaria is the main reason for fever. Now a day after\r\nmalaria, dengue fever has become important cause of fever\r\noutbreaks. Dengue fever (DF) associated with dengue\r\nhemorrhagic fever (DHF) is an emerging public health\r\nproblem in many countries of Asia and South America. As\r\nper the recent WHO estimates, dengue is emerging at the\r\nrate of 50 million new infections per year in almost 100\r\ndisease endemic countries of the world including India.\r\nEarlier, the disease was mainly restricted to urban and\r\nsemi-urban areas of the country because of the availability\r\nof favorable breeding sites of the mosquito vector species,\r\nAedes aegypti, and rural areas were reported to be largely\r\nfree of the vector species. However, over the years, the\r\nvector species has made inroads into rural areas of the\r\ncountry due to the introduction of safe drinking water supply\r\nschemes, which have resulted in water storage practices.\r\nThis has led to the establishment and proliferation of Aedes\r\naegypti mosquito. These developments have resulted in\r\nfrequent outbreaks of dengue/DHF in rural areas of the\r\ncountry as well in addition to naturally saturating fresh water\r\nbodies in the region.\r\nIn Kolhapur previously dengue outbreaks were normally\r\nconfined to urban areas. Presently, sporadic cases are\r\nreported from urban areas and all the epidemics are reported\r\nfrom rural areas.\r\nThus, a systematic study of dengue fever outbreaks\r\nfor accurate information was thought to be necessary.\r\nFurther, study in local context would be more relevant in\r\nlocal application of the knowledge and utilization of this\r\nknowledge in developing strategies for controlling dengue\r\nin rural areas of the state by the field officers.\r\nMATERIAL AND METHODS\r\nDuring the investigation of all the epidemics house-tohouse\r\nsurvey was carried out, for determining the extent of\r\nepidemic. The peripheral blood smears were collected and\r\nexamined for presence of malarial parasites. Search for\r\nbreeding of Aedes aegypti was carried out with the help of\r\ntrained personnel. Prediction of outbreak as dengue fever\r\noutbreak was tried in this study with the help of two\r\nindicators, evidence of aedes breeding and presence of\r\nmalarial parasite in PBS of fever patients. Blood samples\r\nwere collected from patients in acute phase, by venupuncture.\r\nThe sera samples were immediately sent to National Institute\r\nof Virology, Pune in a vaccine carrier maintaining temperature\r\naround 4° C. Simultaneously survey and identification of\r\nmosquitoes for detecting the relationship with the disease\r\nhave also been made.\r\nIncidence of dengue and shifting trend to rural in Kolhapur\r\nDistrict, India\r\nM.B. Jagtap, L.S. Sale*, A.S. Bhosale**, Asawari Sathe*** and T.V. Sathe****\r\nNational Vector Borne Disease Control Programme, Kolhapur, INDIA\r\n*National Vector Borne Disease Control Programme, Pune, INDIA\r\n***Civil Hospital, Orus, Sindhudurg\r\n****Dept. of Zoology, Shivaji University, Kolhapur, 416004, INDIA\r\nABSTRACT : Kolhapur is situated southwest corner of Maharashtra. The district is abundant in natural resources,\r\nwater soil, natural vegetation, animal wealth and minerals. Kolhapur is one of the most agriculturally advanced\r\ndistricts of not only Maharashtra but also India. Dengue is serious life threatening health problem of developing\r\ncountries. In Kolhapur districts the highest cases were found in year 2003 (47) and lowest in 2006 (2). The trend\r\nof incidence of dengue is shifting from urban to rural areas due to large scale development activities, rapid\r\ntransportation, industrialization, urbanization, changing life style of human being, lack of adequate water supply\r\nand electric supply resulting into traditional water storage practices in community, failure in dry day once in\r\nweek, refusal for emptying the containers, no proper cleaning of cement containers, no protection to storage\r\nwater, refusal to temiphos application and less social involvement in health education. The above conditions\r\nfavored proliferation of Aedes mosquitoes and ultimately shifting the incidence of dengue to rural area.\r\nKeywords : Dengue, Incidence, Urban to rural, Kolhapur, India\r\nBiological Forum – An International Journal, 1(1): 12 -17 Forum — An International Journal, 1(2): 58-61(200(92)009) ISSN : 0975-1130\r\nJagtap, Sale, Bhosale, Sathe and Sathe 59\r\nRESULTS AND DISCUSSION\r\nTable 1 : Distribution of Dengue cases of Kolhapur\r\ndistrict from 2003 to 2008.\r\nYear Dengue Cases\r\nUrban Rural Total\r\n2003 33 14 47\r\n2004 3 10 19\r\n2005 1 2 3\r\n2006 2 0 2\r\n2007 2 4 6\r\n2008 1 14 15\r\nIn Kolhapur the highest cases were found in year\r\n2003(47) and lowest in 2006(2). The highest cases were\r\nfound in urban area were in year 2003 (33) and lowest in\r\nyear 2005(1). The highest cases in rural area were in year\r\n2003 and 2008 (14) each.\r\nThe global prevalence of dengue has grown dramatically\r\nin recent decades. Dengue fever and DHF/dengue shock\r\nsyndrome (DSS) occur in over 100 countries and territories\r\nand threaten the health of more than 2.5 billion people in\r\nurban, peri-urban and rural areas of the tropics and\r\nsubtropics. Dengue fever and dengue haemorrhagic fever\r\nare becoming increasingly important public health problems\r\nin the tropics and sub-tropics. Exacerbated by urbanization,\r\nincreasing population movement, and lifestyles that\r\ncontribute to the proliferation of man-made larval habitats\r\nof the mosquito vector, the worsening epidemiological trends\r\nappear likely to continue. The urbanization of rural area leads\r\nto shifting of the disease urban to rural.\r\nThe inhabitants of this region have habits of storing\r\nwater in large number of containers ranging from clay pots,\r\ncement tanks, plastic containers, underground water storage,\r\netc. especially during the summer season. Majority of these\r\ncontainers are ad-hoc reservoirs owing to the low economic\r\nstatus of the families. It is observed that tap water is the\r\ncommonest supply of water among affected villages followed\r\nby well water, hand pump/bore well and tanker. However, as\r\nthe supply of tap water is very erratic, irregular and is\r\nprovided for an extremely short period of 30-40 minutes a\r\nday with no fixed timings and depending on irregular electric\r\nsupply, the villagers have resorted to storing the tap water\r\nin earthen pots, cement tanks, plastic containers, drums, etc.,\r\nwith a capacity of 10 to 2000 litres. As there is no guarantee\r\nthat when the water will be available next time, water\r\ncontainers are never emptied. The large water containers\r\nwere found to be the main source of Ae. aegypti breeding\r\nas these containers were never emptied completely and the\r\nwater was replenished periodically as and when piped water\r\nsupply was restored.\r\nTransovarial transmission of dengue virus by available\r\nvector species in a dengue endemic setting could be the\r\nkey etiological phenomenon responsible for re-emergence\r\nof the disease from inter-epidemic to epidemic phase of\r\ndisease onset. Thus monitoring natural infectivity of\r\nmosquitoes carried through vertical route of virus and\r\nobserved in cement containers may serve as an important\r\nsurveillance tool for risk prediction as well as for the\r\nprevention of dengue emergence in an endemic setting.\r\nAccording to census 2001, Kolhapur have urban rural\r\npopulation ratio 30: 70 and Human development Index (HDI)\r\nwas 0.64, ranked 8th in Mahrashtra. This indicates that life\r\nstyle of the people of the district have been changed and\r\ndue to sparse housing pattern as compared to their urban\r\nsettings, rural areas did not appear to differ in their behavior\r\nin Kolhapur district.\r\nConclusions and Recommendations :\r\n• It is extremely important to conduct entomological\r\nand epidemiological study of fever outbreak village.\r\n• It was observed during study that, fever epidemics\r\nare reported late. The gap between occurrence of\r\nepidemic and receipt of information to medical officer\r\nof PHC is unacceptable. Considering that health\r\nworker is not posted in each village, the response\r\ngap can only be minimized by educating the Gram\r\nPanchayat about their constitutional responsibility\r\nof reporting any event in the village.\r\n• Villages of more than 1,000 population with tap water\r\nsupply and scarcity villages are at highest risk of\r\ngetting Dengue Fever outbreaks.\r\n• Torch and entomological register should be part n\r\nparcel of health worker.\r\n• The cleaning and brushing of the cement container\r\nshould not be 100 percent, so enumerate all the\r\ncement containers in every village and kept under\r\nregular observation. This container plays an\r\nimportant role in transovarian transmission and egg\r\nbiology of Aedes eggs. In this containers anti larval\r\nspraying should be done after every 15 days.\r\n• Reported entomological indices should be\r\ncommunicated correctly to Grampanchayat, Medical\r\nOfficer and higher authority.\r\n• The ability of national programmes to respond to\r\nepidemics in a timely manner should be examined\r\nwith a view to improving indicators and surveillance\r\nsystems to ensure that the information is relevant\r\nand available for decision-making purposes.\r\n• There is need for continued development of simple,\r\naffordable and rapid diagnostic tests and of simple\r\nstandardized methods for characterizing dengue\r\nstrains.\r\n• The efficacy and effectiveness of existing personal\r\n60 Jagtap, Sale, Bhosale, Sathe and Sathe\r\nprotection and household mosquito control measures\r\nshould be studied and new vector control tools\r\ndeveloped for both routine and emergency contexts,\r\ne.g., insecticide-treated curtains, domestic aerosols,\r\nmosquito coils and vaporizers.\r\n• All the medical and paramedical staff should be\r\nreoriented regarding the investigation of fever\r\noutbreaks, basic entomology and keeping DF/DHF/\r\nDSS in mind during the investigation of outbreak.\r\n• The spread of dengue to rural areas should be a\r\nmatter of great concern to public health authorities,\r\nand there is an urgent need to create awareness\r\namong the rural population about the penetration of\r\nthe disease into their areas. They should be imparted\r\nnecessary education about the threat and their\r\ncooperation should be elicited in the early detection\r\nand elimination of Ae. aegypti breeding by\r\nundertaking source reduction, environmental\r\nmanagement and personal protection measures.\r\n• Health education of community in these villages\r\nregarding emptying, brushing and drying of water\r\ncontainers once a week should be started on priority.\r\nYouth club, school children and Female saving clubs\r\nplays an important role in identifying the larval\r\nbreeding and conducting the dry day.\r\n• A systematic approach should be used to improve\r\nthe reach and sustainability of dengue control\r\nprogrammes, involving the donors, the public sector,\r\nnon-governmental organizations and the private and\r\ncommercial sectors.\r\nThe strategy for Dengue prevention and control :\r\n• Fever Surveillance through sentinel sites in public/\r\nprivate hospitals.\r\n• Strengthening of referral at CHCs/Districts\r\n• Epidemic preparedness and response\r\n• Entomological Surveillance\r\n• Larval surveys\r\nJagtap, Sale, Bhosale, Sathe and Sathe 61\r\n• Vector Control\r\n• Anti larval measures\r\n• Source reduction\r\n• Personal protection\r\n• Fogging during outbreaks\r\n• Enactment and enforcement of legislations (Building\r\nand Civic Byelaws) to contain mosquitogenic\r\nconditions\r\n• Behaviour Change Communication for scaling up\r\ncommunity participation\r\n• Inter-sectoral convergence\r\n• Human Resource Development through capacity\r\nbuilding\r\n• Operational research\r\n• Monitoring and supervision','M.B. Jagtap, L.S. Sale, A.S. Bhosale, Asawari Sathe and T.V. Sathe (2009). Incidence of dengue and shifting trend to rural in Kolhapur District, India. Biological Forum – An International Journal 1(2): 58-61. '),(4671,'130','Further notes on the life history of Hellula undalis fabricius from\r\nPunjab, India','Deepinderpal Singh and H.S. Rose','16_Deepinder.pdf','',1,'During the field survey collected different immature stages viz., eggs, larva, pupa and adult of the\r\nspecies Hellula undalis Fabricius in the field from the 4 different localities of Punjab and also reared in the\r\nlaboratory during September, 2005 to February, 2007. The measurements of different larval instars and the\r\nlongevity of the adult under the laboratory conditions have been studied. The detailed account on different life\r\nhistory aspects of the species is described during present study.','Hellula undalis, host plant, larva, pupa, Punjab','During the field survey collected different immature stages viz., eggs, larva, pupa and adult of the\r\nspecies Hellula undalis Fabricius in the field from the 4 different localities of Punjab and also reared in the\r\nlaboratory during September, 2005 to February, 2007. The measurements of different larval instars and the\r\nlongevity of the adult under the laboratory conditions have been studied. The detailed account on different life\r\nhistory aspects of the species is described during present study.','The family Crambidae is of great economic importance\r\nas it includes a large number of species whose larvae feed\r\non important agricultural crops and in the result cause\r\nserious damage to the valuable products. Some species are\r\nalso associated with forest vegetation and ornamental plants,\r\nposing serious damage as defoliators (Atwal and Dhaliwal,\r\n2002). Hellula undalis Fabricius is a serious pest of cabbage\r\nand other cruciferous crops in Punjab and cause severe\r\ndamage to the crops during the months of September to\r\nFebruary (Allyson, 1981b). Damage is most severe between\r\ntransplanting and the heading stage of cabbage even though\r\nthe larvae are present in the field throughout the crop\r\n(Sivapragasam and Aziz, 1990). In order to gather more data\r\non the species, under reference, field and laboratory\r\nobservations have been made during September, 2005 to\r\nFebruary, 2007.\r\nMATERIAL AND METHODS\r\nThe study was carried out in the four different localities\r\nof Punjab viz., Amargarh, Malerkotla, Patiala, and Ludhiana\r\nduring September, 2005 to February, 2007. Many collection\r\nfield surveys were conducted to collect immature stages such\r\nas the eggs, larvae and pupae from the field. The mature\r\nand fertilized female moths were collected from the light\r\nsources as well as by using specific light trap also. The\r\nmaterial thus collected, transferred to a transparent container.\r\nA cotton ball soaked in water and food plant was placed in\r\nthe container. The container was then covered with a thin\r\nmuslin cloth. The egg laying occurs either on the walls of\r\nthe container or on the food plant clippings. The\r\nobservations have been made in laboratory conditions to\r\nstudy various life history aspects such as egg laying, larval\r\ncoloration, larval behaviour, larval duration, pupal formation,\r\npupal duration and adult longevity.\r\nREARING\r\nThe eggs masses and different larval instars were\r\nplaced in petridishes as well as in transparent containers of\r\ndifferent sizes depending upon the size of the larvae. The\r\ncontainers containing fully mature larvae were then shifted\r\nto bigger ones provided with a bed of water-dipped bed of\r\ncotton covered with a layer of filter paper for purpose of\r\npupation. The freshly emerged adults then shifted to insect\r\nrearing cages, which were provided with 10% sucrose\r\nsolution to record their longevity.\r\nRESULTS AND DISCUSSION\r\nThe following observations were made during study\r\nperiod as :\r\nEggs. The length of the egg is 0.41 ± 0.02mm and width\r\nis 0.84 ± 0.01mm. The eggs are ovoid in shape. They are\r\npinkish in colour and slight flattened from the surface of\r\ndeposit. When laid tèe eggs are pearly white in colour and\r\nthen turn pinkish and then turn brownish-red with the dark\r\nhead of the larvae visible at one end just before hatchéng\r\n(Harakly, 1968). Eggs are laid singly, or in clusters of 4 or 5\r\non the lower surface of leaves of cabbage near the bud.\r\nThe total incubation period of the egg is 3.25 ± 0.65 days at\r\nroom temperature and relative humidity about 60-70%. Egg\r\nlaying begins within 24 hours of adult emergence anl\r\ncontinues for 3 to 10 days. Each female lays an average of\r\n27 eggs per day and 175 eggs during her life time\r\n(Sivapragasam and Aziz, 1990). The eggs may be scale like\r\nin different species of the families Pyralidae, Tortricidae and\r\nGelechiidae or may be cylindrical as in the family\r\nGeometridae.\r\nLarvae. Caterpillars of this pest are grayish yellow in\r\ncolour and five longitudinal stripes are present on dorsal\r\nsurface, which are purplish and reddish brown in colour.\r\nFurther notes on the life history of Hellula undalis fabricius from\r\nPunjab, India\r\nDeepinderpal Singh and H.S. Rose\r\nDepartment of Zoology, Punjabi University, (P.B.) INDIA\r\nShaheed Udham Singh College of Research and Technology, Tangori (P.B.) INDIA\r\nABSTRACT : During the field survey collected different immature stages viz., eggs, larva, pupa and adult of the\r\nspecies Hellula undalis Fabricius in the field from the 4 different localities of Punjab and also reared in the\r\nlaboratory during September, 2005 to February, 2007. The measurements of different larval instars and the\r\nlongevity of the adult under the laboratory conditions have been studied. The detailed account on different life\r\nhistory aspects of the species is described during present study.\r\nKeywords : Hellula undalis, host plant, larva, pupa, Punjab\r\nBiological Forum – An International Journal, 1(1): 12 -17 Forum — An International Journal, 1(2): 62-63(200(92)009) ISSN : 0975-1130\r\nSingh and Rose 63\r\nThe head and the prothoracic shield are black in colour\r\ncontaining black patches on it. The caterpillars are feed in\r\nthe heart of the cabbage. There are four larval instars. The\r\nduration of the first instar larvae is 3.50 ± 0.45 days, second\r\ninstar is 2.75 ± 0.3 days, third instar is 2.45 ± 0.04 days and\r\nthe fourth instar is 4.92 ± 0.98 days .The width of the head\r\nof the fourth instar is 0.58 ± 0.05 mm, length of the larval\r\nbody is 7.50 ± 0.25mm and the larval body width is 1.16 ±\r\n0.15mm. The average total larval duration is 15.63 ± 1.82\r\ndays but on cauliflower it may require only 10-13 days. The\r\nduration’s of the first, second, third and fourth larval instars\r\nare 3 days, 2 days, 3 days and 2 lays respectively (Kessing\r\nand Mau, 2007).\r\nPupae. The pupal length is 5.70 ± 0.30mm (and width is\r\n2.00 ± 0.2 mm. The full grown caterpillars stops feeding and\r\nbecome sluggish and spin cocoon between leaves and at\r\nthe entrance of the feeding tunnel whereas the other fully\r\nmature larvae hide itself in the soil and pupate their. Then it\r\nchanges itself in to brown colored pupa. The segmentations\r\nof different body parts are seen clearly. The pupal duration\r\nis 6.50 ± 0.50 days. The total generation time is 23.37 ± 2.97\r\ndays.\r\nAdult. Grey and brown suffused with fuscous, forewing\r\nwith pale dentate sub basal line, a pale apical spot and\r\nseries of pale and dark marginal specks, hind wing pale\r\nwith slight fuscous suffusion on apical area (Hampson, 1896).\r\nThe longevity of the adult is 6.15 ± 0.25 days. Emergence\r\nof the adult moth generally occurs in the evening and rarely\r\nduring the day time. Adults looks for mate 3 to 4 hours\r\nafter emergence. Like other moths, the adults are primarily\r\nactive at night. They fly readily, but are more or less obscure\r\nin their habits, and are not often seen in cabbage fields\r\n(Fullaway & Krauss, 1945).\r\nHost plants. The larvae attacks cabbage (Brassica\r\noleracea), cauliflower (Brassica oleracea var. botrytis),\r\nradish (Raphanus sativus), knol-knol (Brassica oleracea var.\r\ncaulorapa), beet root (Beta vulgaris) and the weed,\r\nGynadropsis pentaphylla (Capparidaceae) (Atwal and\r\nDhaliwal, 2002).','Deepinderpal Singh and H.S. Rose (2009). Further notes on the life history of Hellula undalis fabricius from Punjab, India. Biological Forum – An International Journal 1(2): 62-63. '),(4672,'130','Effect of parasitoid density on parasitism of Mythimna separata fab.\r\nby Dolichogenidea mythimna S. and B. (Braconidae : Hymenoptera','T.V. Sathe and T.M. Chougale','17_Sathe_TV.pdf','',1,'Parasitism potential of a parasitoid can count the success of the biocontrol programme. Thus,\r\nparasitism plays an important role in mass rearing of parasitoids. Keeping in view the above facts, present work\r\nwas undertaken in a host-parasitoid model, Mythimna separata Fab.and Dolichogenidea mythimna S. & B.\r\n(Braconidae: Hymenoptera). Optimum parasitoid density was 5 for maximum progeny production of parasitoids.\r\nParasitoid densities, 1, 5, 10, 15 and 20 were exposed to a constant host density, 50 in the experiments at\r\nlaboratory conditions (24 + 10 C, 65 -70 % R. H., 12 hr photoperiod).','Dolichogenidea mythimna, Mythimna separata, parasitoid density, parasitism, biocontrol agents.','Parasitism potential of a parasitoid can count the success of the biocontrol programme. Thus,\r\nparasitism plays an important role in mass rearing of parasitoids. Keeping in view the above facts, present work\r\nwas undertaken in a host-parasitoid model, Mythimna separata Fab.and Dolichogenidea mythimna S. & B.\r\n(Braconidae: Hymenoptera). Optimum parasitoid density was 5 for maximum progeny production of parasitoids.\r\nParasitoid densities, 1, 5, 10, 15 and 20 were exposed to a constant host density, 50 in the experiments at\r\nlaboratory conditions (24 + 10 C, 65 -70 % R. H., 12 hr photoperiod).','In introduction, colonization and mass production of\r\nparasitoids factors such as host specificity, host age, host\r\ndensity, parasitoid density and parasitoid behavior plays an\r\nimportant role. Parasitism potential of a parasitoid can count\r\nthe success of the biocontrol programme. Hence, keeping in\r\nview the importance of such studies in biocontrol\r\nprogramme, the present work was undertaken. Kajita & Drake,\r\n(1969); Hassell, (1970); Yeargan & Latheef, (1976); Nikam &\r\nBasarkar, (1982); Sathe (1984, 1985, 1986), etc. attempted such\r\nstudies.\r\nMATERIAL AND METHODS\r\nRearing of host and parasitoids was carried out in the\r\nlaboratory (24 + 1° C, 65-70 %R. H., 12 hr photoperiod) by\r\ncollecting host larvae / parasitoid cocoons from the Jowar\r\nfields. Newly emerged mated D. mythimna females were\r\nexposed with 1, 5, 10, 15 and 20 densities in the cage of\r\nsize, 30 × 30 × 30 cm. 50 M. separata larvae of age 7 – 8\r\nday old were provided to each lot. After 24 hr exposure,\r\nhost larvae were isolated in specimen tubes for further\r\ndevelopment. Hosts and parasitoids were fed with Jowar\r\nleaves and 50% honey respectively. Five replications (each\r\nconsist 50 host larvae) per parasitoid density were made.\r\nRESULTS AND DISCUSSION\r\nThe data presented in the table 1 reveals that the rate\r\nof parasitization was higher (94 % and 76 %) with 5 and 10\r\nparasitoid density but reduced considerably with density, 1,\r\n15 and 20 ( 6%, 70% and 74% respectively).','T.V. Sathe and T.M. Chougale (2009). Effect of parasitoid density on parasitism of Mythimna separata fab. by Dolichogenidea mythimna S. and B. (Braconidae : Hymenoptera. Biological Forum – An International Journal 1(2): 64-65.'),(4673,'130','Population dynamics of mango mealy bug, Drosicha mangiferae\r\nGreen from Jhansi, Uttar Pradesh','Ashok Kumar, Sudhir Kumar Pandey and Rajesh Kumar','18_Ashok.pdf','',1,'Population dynamics of mango mealy bug nymphs, Drosicha mangiferae Green were observed on\r\nthe basis of seasonal abundance. Canopy in selected area were pinmarked as Tree-A, Tree-B and Tree-C and the\r\nnumber of nymphs of insect present on the tree trunk, terminal twigs or on inflorescences was recorded at an\r\ninterval of a week. Population of insect was seen to be decreasing thereafter from mid February till last May on\r\nthree trees. From the visual observations, it reveals that nymphs of mealy bug seen on trunks in the beginning\r\nwere identified as first instar till mid February.','Mangifera indica, population dynamics, orchard, Drosicha mangiferae','Population dynamics of mango mealy bug nymphs, Drosicha mangiferae Green were observed on\r\nthe basis of seasonal abundance. Canopy in selected area were pinmarked as Tree-A, Tree-B and Tree-C and the\r\nnumber of nymphs of insect present on the tree trunk, terminal twigs or on inflorescences was recorded at an\r\ninterval of a week. Population of insect was seen to be decreasing thereafter from mid February till last May on\r\nthree trees. From the visual observations, it reveals that nymphs of mealy bug seen on trunks in the beginning\r\nwere identified as first instar till mid February.','Mango, Mangifera indica L. (Anacardiaceae) is most\r\npopular and commercial fruit of India and cultivated in about\r\n87 countries. India has third position in mango production\r\nin the world, next to Brazil and USA. Several insect-pests\r\ncause a considerable damage to mango crop every year.\r\nTandon and Lal (1976) reported as many as 492 insect species\r\ninfesting mango crop where 12 species are important insects\r\nparticularly in the oriental region.\r\nTandon et al. (1978) recorded the host range of D.\r\nmangiferae and D. stebbingi feeding on 62 host plants under\r\n51 genera and 28 families, which included fruit crops, forest\r\ntrees, ornamental plants and weeds. Chandra et al. (1987)\r\nstudied the biology of mango pest, Drosicha mangiferae\r\nand reported that the pest had 1 generation in a year and\r\ndiapaused in the egg stage in soil for about 7 months.\r\nMohan et al. (2004) described that mango mealy bug D.\r\nmangiferae is a serious pest in fruit orchards. Ashfaq et al.\r\n(2005) reported that mango is severely damaged by the giant\r\nmango mealy bug (Drosicha stebbingi). In the manuscript,\r\npopulation dynamics of D. mangiferae in mango orchard at\r\nJhansi, Uttar Pradesh.\r\nMATERIAL AND METHODS\r\nThe detailed description of the experiment, materials\r\nused and methods adopted for the present investigation are\r\ngiven below. The experiment was carried out during the year\r\n2007-08 in the mango growing area of village Mau Ranipur,\r\ndistrict Jhansi UP, India in an orchard. Twenty one mango\r\ntrees of about same size and canopy were selected for the\r\nexperiment purpose. Simple Randomized Block Design was\r\ntaken up as the design of lay out for the experiment.\r\nRESULTS AND DISCUSSION\r\nThe scientific name of the most common species of\r\nthis pest is Drosicha (or Monophlebus) mangiferae (or\r\nstebbingi) belongs to the family Margarodidae and order\r\nHomoptera and reported from many places in India and\r\nChina (Pradhan, 1961). There is a well-established sexual\r\ndimorphism in the adult stage which is generally found\r\nduring the midsummer period, i.e. from April to June. Adult\r\nfemales are wingless and large-bodied. The male, on the\r\nother hand, is a winged creature with only one pair of wings\r\nand a very delicate reddish body which flies actively and\r\nfertilizes the females. The male adults have also much shorter\r\nlongevity than the female adults which live for about a\r\nmonth. The adult gravid females after fertilization crawl down\r\nalong the tree-trunk to the ground where they lay eggs at\r\ndepths of about 2-6 inches and in clusters of 300 to 400\r\neggs each, whereas Nair (1975) reported upto 336 eggs\r\nhatched in January. The oviposition is generally confined\r\nto an area of a few feed in diameter round the base of the\r\ntree. These activities of migration from the tree downwards\r\nto the ground and oviposition in the soil are generally\r\nconfined to the months from April to June when the males\r\ndie soon after mating and the females soon after oviposition.\r\nThe eggs laid in the soil take quite a few months before\r\nthey hatch and their hatching has been reported to be quite\r\nappreciably influenced by the temperature and moisture\r\nconditions of the soil. The result is that the hatching can\r\noccur as early as November of the same year or as late as\r\nMarch of the succeeding year. Late monsoons and winter\r\nrains have been reported to delay hatching.\r\nThe young nymphs soon after hatching, crawl about in\r\nsearch of some suitable food-plant on which, if found, they\r\nspend some time. Thereafter, they begin their ascent along\r\nthe tree-trunks and this upward migration lasts for several\r\nweeks. On reaching the fresh growths, the nymphs\r\ncongregate there and begin to suck the plant-sap. They\r\nmoult thrice during their nymphal period which lasts about\r\nthree months or more, depending on the environmental\r\ntemperature. Thereafter, the male-forming nymphs undergo\r\nPopulation dynamics of mango mealy bug, Drosicha mangiferae\r\nGreen from Jhansi, Uttar Pradesh\r\nAshok Kumar, Sudhir Kumar Pandey* and Rajesh Kumar**\r\nDepartment of Zoology, Bundelkhand University, Jhansi\r\n*Department of Biotechnology, Jamia Millia Islamia University, New Delhi\r\n**Division of Entomology, IARI, Pusa Campus, New Delhi\r\nABSTRACT : Population dynamics of mango mealy bug nymphs, Drosicha mangiferae Green were observed on\r\nthe basis of seasonal abundance. Canopy in selected area were pinmarked as Tree-A, Tree-B and Tree-C and the\r\nnumber of nymphs of insect present on the tree trunk, terminal twigs or on inflorescences was recorded at an\r\ninterval of a week. Population of insect was seen to be decreasing thereafter from mid February till last May on\r\nthree trees. From the visual observations, it reveals that nymphs of mealy bug seen on trunks in the beginning\r\nwere identified as first instar till mid February.\r\nKeywords : Mangifera indica, population dynamics, orchard, Drosicha mangiferae\r\nBBiioollooggiiccaall FFoorruumm —– AAnn IInntteerrnnaatitoionnaal lJ oJuorunranla, l1,(12()1: )6:61-628-(12700(92)009) ISSN : 0975-1130\r\nKumar, Pandey and Kumar 67\r\nsome sort of pupation and transform themselves into winged\r\nadult males which are alive from 22 to 27 days and the\r\nfemale-producing nymphs do not undergo any appreciable\r\nchange except in size and they live from 76 to 135 days\r\nAs per studies done by researchers, study of seasonal\r\nabundance of nymphal population of mealy bug is also felt\r\nto be taken up herein. For such study, 3 mango trees of\r\nabout same age and canopy in selected area were pinmarked\r\nas Tree-A, Tree-B and Tree-C and the number of nymphs\r\nof insect present on the tree trunk, terminal twigs or on\r\ninflorescences was recorded at an interval of a week from\r\n15 November 2007 to 29 May 2008 to know the seasonal\r\nabundance of insect’s population which is shown in the\r\nGraphs 1, 2 and 3 below:\r\n(I) Population on trunk. Data from the Graph 1, 2 and 3\r\nshow the population of mealy bug nymphs started crawling\r\non tree trunk at an average of 0.4 in 10 cm2 area on 6th\r\nDecember 2007 in tree-B, while average population of\r\nnymphs was counted as 1.0 on tree-A and 0.4 on tree-C on\r\n13th December 2007. This population of mealy bug then went\r\non increasing at weekly interval till first week of January\r\nand the population was found to be constant for a month\r\nabout up to first week of February. Population of insect\r\nwas seen to be decreasing thereafter from mid February for\r\nlast May on three trees. From the visual observations, it\r\nreveals that nymphs of mealy bug seen on trunks in the\r\nbeginning were identified as first instar till mid February.\r\nand now population of second instar nymphs started\r\nwhereas emergence or crawling of first instar is still\r\ncontinued next fortnight. The second instar nymphs also\r\nstarted moulting from mid March, which again moulted to\r\nfourth instar nymphs in mid April and further they are\r\nidentified as full grown up mealy bug with ovisac in last\r\nweek of April and onwards. The population of mealy bug\r\nseen coming down the tree to the ground with its ovisac in\r\nlast week of April, which continued later till the date.\r\nAs the previous studies shows that male adults of\r\nmealy bug are short flier insects and here they have been\r\nseen flying over the canopy of tree in search of female of\r\nmealy bug for mating. Thus, full grown mealy bugs seen\r\ncoming down through the branches and then trunk to the\r\nground level in the last week of April were found to be\r\ngravid and they were ready to oviposition in the ground.\r\n(II) Population on shoots. Data from the Graphs 1, 2\r\nand 3 show the population of mealy bug nymphs started\r\ncongregating on tender parts of tree such as the buds at an\r\naverage of 0.4 and 0.6 per bud on 20th December 2007 in\r\ntree-A and B, respectively while an average population of\r\nnymphs was counted as 1.0 on tree-C 27th December 2007.\r\nThis population of mealy bug then went on increasing at\r\nweekly interval till the middle of March 2008 in tree-C and A\r\nwhile till first week of April in tree-B. Population of insect\r\nwas seen to be decreasing thereafter from mid February till\r\nlast May on all three trees. From the visual observations, it\r\nreveals that nymphs of mealy bug seen on panicles in the\r\nbeginning were identified as first instar till middle of\r\nFebruary and now population of second instar nymphs\r\nstarted moulting whereas emergence or crawling of first instar\r\nis still continued during next fortnight. The second instar\r\nnymphs also started moulting from mid March, which again\r\nmoulted to fourth instar nymphs in mid April and further\r\nthey are identified as full grown up mealy bug with\r\ndeveloped ovisac in last week of April and onwards. The\r\npopulation of mealy bug seen coming down the tree to the\r\nground with its ovisac in last week o April which continued\r\nlater till the date.','Ashok Kumar, Sudhir Kumar Pandey and Rajesh Kumar (2009). Population dynamics of mango mealy bug, Drosicha mangiferae Green from Jhansi, Uttar Pradesh. Biological Forum – An International Journal 1(2): 66-68. '),(4674,'112','Genetic Divergence Analysis of late Sown Wheat (Triticum aestivum L.) Accessions using Principal Component Analysis and Euclidean distance Method','Kiran*, Y.P.S. Solanki, Vikram Singh, V.S. Mor, Manuj Saini, Sonu Langaya and Deepak Kumar','311 Genetic Divergence Analysis of late Sown Wheat _Triticum aestivum L._ Accessions using Principal Component Analysis and Euclidean Distance Method Kiran.pdf','',1,'The current study was conducted using 60 bread wheat genotypes under late sown environment in randomized block design. The analysis of variance revealed that considerable variation existing among the genotypes for all the traits under study. The highest estimates of phenotypic coefficient of variation (PCV) and genotypic coefficient of variation (GCV) were observed for grain growth rate at 28 (GGR28) days after anthesis i.e., 22.31 and 27.76 respectively. The highest value for heritability (broad sense) was observed for seedling dry weight (SDW) (98.57 %) whereas grain yield per plot (GY/P) had moderately high heritability (62.09 %). Based on D2 Statistics cluster analysis, 60 genotypes were grouped into seven clusters. The maximum inter-cluster distance was recorded between cluster I&V (10.38) and cluster I&VII (9.72). Genetic diversity analysis facilitates plant breeders to choose divergent lines which they utilize in hybridization breeding programmes. Genotypes selected from these clusters may be used in hybridization programmes, as divergent parents are likely to produce heterotic F1s and most promising segregants. Based on Principal component analysis (PCA) first seven components with >1 eigen values contributed 73.6 % variation to the total variation. Maximum value explained by the PC1 (22.2 %) and PC2 (13.0 %).','Wheat, Genetic variability, Genetic diversity, Cluster analysis and Principal component analysis','High heritability with high genetic advance estimated in current study showed that the direct selection for traits such as number of Grain per spike, spikelet per spike, seed density, seedling dry weight, seedling length, seedling vigour index I and II may be effective as they are governed by additive gene action. Based on cluster analysis, it can be concluded that wider genetic divergence found among the genotypes. Maximum inter-cluster distance was reported in cluster I and V (10.38) however minimum distance observed in cluster IV and III (6.18) indicating greater the distance between these genotypes revealed broad spectrum of genetic diversity, maximum heterosis can be obtained in crosses between these clusters for varietal improvement. The maximum intra-cluster distance was shown in cluster V (6.39) followed by cluster I (6.16) indicating maximum genetic diversity among the genotypes. Cluster with minimum intra-cluster distance was cluster II (5.43) and cluster VI (5.52), indicating less diversity and more homogeneity among the genotypes and hence selection will be less effective as compared to cluster I and V. From the seven principal components, the first two components, PC1 and PC2 with values 22.2% and 13.0% respectively, contributed more to the total variations. On the basis of PCA the promising genotypes namely, P13260, P13588, P13639, P13638, P13652, P13674, P13641, P13648, P13660, P13648, P13653 and P13584 were identified for yield and quality attributing traits which showed the maximum values in the main components. Hence, genotypes selected from current study can be used for further investigations and in hybridizing programmes to produce more heterotic F1’s and most promising segregants in the segregating generations.','INTRODUCTION\r\nBread wheat (Triticum aestivum L.) is the widely grown staple cereal crop after paddy. Earlier, it has been cultivated only as a food crop but, nowadays there is sudden increase in demand for wheat driven by increase in China\'s domestic corn prices, which is causing more wheat to be used in animal feed (Shilpa Samant, 2020). Globally, wheat production in 2020-21 reaches upto 796.6 million metric tons (FAOSTAT, 2021). As per 4th Advance estimates production for major crops during 2020-2021, area under wheat cultivation were 34.6 million hectares and production was 109.52 million tonne (Anonymous, 2021). For breeders it is a tough grind to increase the production of wheat to stand up with the global food and nutritional security standards. Especially, for late sown wheat this task becomes particularly challenging when late sown wheat undergoes forced maturation and test weight reduction, due to the prevailing high temperature and desiccating winds during the month of April (Singh and Dhaliwal 2000). This can only be achieved if, adequate genetic diversity is present among the gene pool for developing climate resilient, high yielding and stress tolerance varieties and hybrids.\r\nCrop improvement in any breeding programme relies on the amount of genetic variability and diversity present in the gene pool. Genetic variability is a measure of variability present among genotypes in experimental material. Its presence is essential to adapt to change in environmental conditions by the population. The extent of genetic diversity among the selected genotypes may be estimated by genetic divergence studies (Mondal, 1997). D-square statistics (D2) developed by Mahalanobis (1936), has been used to evaluate the net divergent genotypes present in different clusters. Genetic distances are measures of the average genetic divergence between cultivars or populations. If variation is present in the tactical gene pool, the materials can be utilized directly to develop competitive varieties (Pfeiffer and McClafferty, 2007). Principal Component Analysis (PCA) reveals the major contributor to the total variations at each distinct point. It is a multivariate technique which reduces data with large number of correlated variables substantially into new set of variables. Correlation matrices are better for estimating PCA because it does not require standardization. \r\nKeeping in view, an effort has been made to evaluate a set of 60 bread wheat genotypes with an aim, to analyze the genetic variability, heritability, and genetic advance for yield and its component traits and diversity among biological population by D2 statistics and principal component analysis.\r\nMATERIALS AND METHODS\r\nAccessions used in the present investigation comprises of 60 bread wheat genotypes, sown in Randomized Block Design (RBD) under late sown conditions with three replications at experimental area of Wheat & Barley section, Department of Genetics and Plant Breeding, CCS Haryana Agricultural University, Hisar. The prescribed bundle of practices were followed. \r\nA. Morpho-physiological trait\r\nThe observations were recorded on five randomly selected plants from every genotype in each replication for the accompanying morpho-physiological traits namely, Days to 50% heading (DH), days to anthesis (DA), canopy temperature at heading (CTH, ˚C), canopy temperature after anthesis (CTA, ˚C), grain growth rate (14, 21, 28 days after anthesis) (GGR14, GGR21 and GGR28 respectively; mg grain-1day-1), plant height (PH, cm), peduncle length (PL; cm), peduncle extrusion (PE; cm), number of effective tillers per meter (ET/M), spike length (SL; cm), spikelet per spike (S/S), no. of grains per spike(G/S), grain yield per plot(GY/P, g), biological yield per plot(BY/P, gm) and harvest index (HI, %).\r\nB. Seed vigour parameters\r\nStandard germination (SG; %), density (SD, g cc-1), 1000 grain weight (TGW; gm), seedling length (SL; cm), seedling dry weight (SDW; mg), seedling vigour index-I and II (SVI and SV II respectively). “Between the papers” (BP) method was used for estimating standard germination. The seedling vigour indices were calculated as per the method given by Abdul-Baki and Anderson, (1973).\r\nC. Statistical analysis\r\nThe ANOVA (Fisher, 1925), heritability, phenotypic coefficient of variance (PCV), genotypic coefficient of variance (GCV), Wards minimum method and Squared Euclidean Distance for clustering the genotypes and principal component analysis (PCA) is estimated by using correlation matrices to measure the diversity.\r\nRESULTS AND DISCUSSION\r\nA. Genetic Variability analysis\r\nThe mean sum of square values presented in ANOVA Table 1 was observed as highly significant for all the traits considered, elucidating satisfactory variability present among the genotypes. Similar results were obtained by Phougat et al. (2017); Fikre et al. (2015). The presence of variability among the experimental material might be due to diverse sources of collected breeding material as well as environmental effects on phenotypes. \r\nThe heritability, genetic advance, genotypic coefficient of variance (GCV) and phenotypic coefficient of variance (PCV) are presented in Fig. 1 and 2. The high GCV and PCV values were obtained in GGR28 and seedling vigour index II, moderate PCV and GCV values were accounted for GY/P, GGR21, SD, SL, SDW and SV I. Moderate to high value of GCV and PCV obtained in this study fall in line with those observed by Kaddem et al. (2014); Kumar et al. (2013); Nukasani et al. (2013).\r\nWhereas lowest value for GCV and PCV were reported for DH, DA, CTH, CTA, PL and SG indicated very less variability for such traits among the genotypes. Similar findings were reported by Pooja et al. (2018); Rani et al. (2018). High difference between GCV and PCV value were reported in traits such as GGR21, GGR28, BY/P and GY/P indicating environment effect was prominent in such traits as compared to others. \r\nThe proportion of variability inherited from parents to offspring is manifested by heritability (Lush, 1949). High estimates for heritability i.e., > 80 per cent was reported by days to anthesis, plant height, effective tillers per meter, peduncle length, peduncle extrusion, spike length, spikelet per spike, number of grains per spike and all the six seed vigour parameters.\r\nSimilar results were reported by Singh et al. (2017) (SG, SL, SDW, SV I and II), Kumar et al. (2013) (PH and BY/P) and Deshewa and Kyosev (2015) (ET/M). For improvement of these traits selection can be practiced as they are governed by additive genes. Traits such as CTH, BY/P and HI showed low heritability indicating high environmental influence and selection may not be effective for their improvement.\r\nEstimating heritability with genetic advance reveals the type of gene action involved in expression of the traits. Thus, the traits showing high heritability with high genetic advance indicates additive gene action and direct selection for such traits are effective. In current study direct selection may be effective for G/S, S/S, SD, SDW, SL, SV I and II. Similar results were reported by Singh et al., 2017 (SDW and SV I and II)\r\nB. Genetic Divergence Analysis\r\nSixty bread wheat genotypes were assembled into seven clusters using D2- statistics, genotypes within cluster were less genetically diverse than those among two distinct clusters (Table 2). The distribution pattern showed that group II and VI have the maximum number of genotypes (14), trailed by cluster III, IV and V (10, 9 and 5 respectively), whereas, cluster I and VII has minimum number (4 each). Findings of present study are supported by Arya et al. (2017); Dutamo et al. (2015): Mishra et al. (2015); Fikre et al. (2015). \r\nThe intra- and inter-cluster average distances has been presented in Table 3 and Fig. 3. The diagonal representing the intra-cluster distance ranged from 5.43 (II) to 6.39(V) and above diagonal represents inter- cluster distance ranged from 6.50 (III & II) to 10.38 (V & I) indicating considerable genetic diversity between different the clusters. A maximum difference among the genotypes within the same cluster was reported in cluster V (6.39) followed by cluster I (6.16) and cluster VII (5.60), this indicates genotypes present in these cluster with high degree of divergence might produce more desirable breeding material (Dobariya et al., \r\n2006) whereas minimum intra-cluster distance was reported by cluster II (5.43) indicating homogenous nature of genotypes in this cluster, hence selection will not be effective. Maximum genetic divergence was reported between cluster I & V (10.38) followed by between cluster I & VII (9.72), suggesting the genotypes from clusters possessing maximum genetic distance when involved in hybridization programme, produces more heterotic F1’s and most promising segregants in the segregating generations. Similar findings were obtained by Phougat et al. (2017); Sharma et al. (2017).\r\nThe cluster mean analysis has been presented in Table 4. Cluster VII comprised of early genotypes by having least number of DH and DA (69.83 and 76.08, respectively) and reported highest cluster mean GY/P (3532.9 g), SL (11.60 cm), PE (17.15 cm), ET/M, GGR14 (3.58 mg g-1 day-1) and SG (94.83%). Thus, genotypes may complete their life cycle before the onset of heat stress due to late sown conditions. Cluster III consist of genotypes with highest BY/P (8193 g), low CTH and CTA (26.35 & 25.17 ˚C respectively and third highest mean GY/P (3347.3 g), indicating these genotypes can tolerate high temperature stress condition by lowering their canopy temperature and maintains yield. Cluster IV genotypes had high values for G/S (54.93) and short stature plants (94.97cm) and Cluster V consists of genotypes with maximum values for GGR21 (2.17 mg g-1 day-1), TGW (39.50 g), HI (44.28 %), SD (1.80 g cc-1), SDW (11.29 mg) and SV II (1064.19), thus the genotypes from these clusters also have desirable traits which can be utilized in hybridizing programme to get the ultimate aim of plant breeder i.e., grain yield. Similar results were reported by Dutamo et al. (2016); Imran et al. (2016); Kabir et al. (2015). Therefore, genotypes from cluster VII could be exploited for the direct release as a variety after testing under wide range of environment.C. Principal component analysis \r\nPrincipal component analysis simplifies the complex data by changing the number of related variables into smaller number of variables called principal components. The analysis had grouped the wheat \r\nvariables into seven main components which showed eigen value >1 and accounted for 73.6% of total variation with yield. Importance should be given to the traits falling in these seven components because of their maximum contribution to the total variation (Table 6, Fig. 4). Eigen values represents the spreading of data on the line which is an eigen vector. The maximum eigen value was 5.31 for PC1 while the minimum was 1.28 for PC7 (Table 5). Maximum per cent of variance explained by component 1(22.2) followed by component 2 (13.0) and component 3 (10.57) which means they had contributed more to the total variation. The high principal component score for a particular genotype in a particular component denotes high value for the traits mentioned in that component for that specific genotype. The traits included in all the seven components with the genotypes having maximum values in that component are presented in Table 5. Similar finding regarding the traits present in seven main components have been obtained by Bhanupriya et al. (2014); Mobullah et al. (2013); Upadhyay et al. (2016).\r\n','Kiran, Y.P.S. Solanki, Vikram Singh, V.S. Mor, Manuj Saini, Sonu Langaya and Deepak Kumar (2022). Genetic Divergence Analysis of late Sown Wheat (Triticum aestivum L.) Accessions using Principal Component Analysis and Euclidean Distance Method. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 14(1): 1793-1798.'),(4675,'130','A primary report on Rhopalocera diversity (Lepidoptera) from district\r\nUna of Himachal Pradesh, India','P.C. Pathania and Anita Kumari','19_Pathania.pdf','',1,'Twenty-eight species belonging to nineteen genera i.e., Aglais Dalman, Anosia Hübner, Ariadne\r\nHorsifield, Hypolimnas Hübner, Junonia Hübner, Lethe Hübner, Morpho Fabricius, Neptis Fabricius, Pyronia\r\nHübner, Satyrus Westwood, Papilio Linnaeus, Atella Doubleday, Catopsilia Hübner, Cepora Billberg, Colias Fabricius,\r\nDelias Hübner, Eurema Hübner, Ixias Hübner and Pieris Schrank of the three families i.e., Nymphalidae, Papilionidae\r\nand Pieridae of the Superfamily Papilionoidea were collected from fifteen localities of district Una in Himachal\r\nPradesh. Besides material examined their old distribution alongwith host plants (if any) were also provided.','Geographical, Rhopalocera, Lepidoptera, Diversity','Twenty-eight species belonging to nineteen genera i.e., Aglais Dalman, Anosia Hübner, Ariadne\r\nHorsifield, Hypolimnas Hübner, Junonia Hübner, Lethe Hübner, Morpho Fabricius, Neptis Fabricius, Pyronia\r\nHübner, Satyrus Westwood, Papilio Linnaeus, Atella Doubleday, Catopsilia Hübner, Cepora Billberg, Colias Fabricius,\r\nDelias Hübner, Eurema Hübner, Ixias Hübner and Pieris Schrank of the three families i.e., Nymphalidae, Papilionidae\r\nand Pieridae of the Superfamily Papilionoidea were collected from fifteen localities of district Una in Himachal\r\nPradesh. Besides material examined their old distribution alongwith host plants (if any) were also provided.','Lepidoptera is the second largest order after Coleoptera\r\nwhich comprises moths, butterflies and skippers. There are\r\nabout 2,00,000 species of Lepidoptera out of which 15,000\r\nspecies belong to butterflies (Papillionoidea) and remaining\r\nmoths worldover (Holloway et. al., 1992). Lepidopteran\r\ninsects are characterized by having broad wings covered\r\nwith minute overlapping scales, usually brightly coloured.\r\nFrom the usage point of view, most familiar division of\r\nLepidoptera is divided into Heterocera (moths) and\r\nRhopalocera (butterflies) and Microlepidoptera and\r\nMacrolepidoptera (Evans, 1932). During the course of\r\npresent studies authors conducted survey-cum-collections\r\ntour to district Una (North Latitude 31° 21\' and 31° 50\' and\r\nEast Longitudes 71° 55\' and 76° 28\', altitude 750 metres)\r\npresent in South-Western part of Himachal Pradesh. Fifteen\r\nlocalities i.e., Dehlan, Bangana, Gagret, Raipur, Mubarkpur,\r\nBharwain, Haroli, Una, Amb, Chintpurni, Daulatpur, Basoli,\r\nSantokhgarh, Chauki Maniar and Lathiani were visited\r\nbetween during different seasons from March to August,\r\n2008. This exercise led to the collection of 28 species of\r\nfamily Papilionidae, Nymphalidae and Pieridae.\r\nMATERIAL AND METHODS\r\nThe specimens of butterflies were collected with the\r\nhelp of insect collection net (circumference 93 cm, handle\r\nlength 87 cm, bag depth 77 cm) by sweeping method during\r\nday time. This methods were quite suitable for collection of\r\nbutterflies over the leaves and flowers (Arora, 1990). Adults\r\ncollected were killed in killing bottle by using liquid chemicals\r\nlike ethyl acetate, carbon tetrachloride etc. All the specimens\r\ncollected from various localities were pinned with different\r\nsizes entomological pins (38mm x .40mm; 38mm x .55mm)\r\nand stretching in spreading board boxes (40cm x 30cm x\r\n10cm) or on plastazote pasted/fixed at the bottom of a slide\r\nbox. The stretched specimens were stored in well fumigated\r\n(naphthalene balls) wooden boxes. All the specimens carrying\r\ninformation such as locality, date of collection, altitude and\r\nname of the collector etc. The preparation of wings slide\r\nwere undertaken as per Common (1970) and Zimmerman\r\n(1978). The taxonomic procedure involves an examination of\r\nvarious morphological characters such as head, labial palpus,\r\nlegs, wing shape, wing maculation and wing venation.\r\nPhotographs of the adults of different species were taken\r\nwith the help of digital camera (Nikon D200).\r\nOBSERVATIONS\r\nThe different species of butterflies were identified from\r\nliterature Moore, 1865, 1866-68, 1880-87, 1890, 1896-1899; de.\r\nNiceville, 1881; de Niceville and Marshall, 1882, 1886, 1890,\r\n1883-1890; Hampson, 1892, 1895, 1918; Bingham, 1905, 1907;\r\nBell, 1911; Talbot, 1939; Wynter-Blyth, 1957; Common, 1970;\r\nD’Abrerra, 1980-86, 1998; Arora, 1990; Holloway, et al. 1992;\r\nVarshney, 1993, 1994,1997, 1998; Rose and Sidhu, 1994, 1996,\r\n1997, 1997a, 1999, 2001; Rose and Sharma, 1995, 1995a,\r\n1998, 1998a, 1998b, 1998c, 1999, 2000, 2000a, 2000b;\r\nGunatheraj et al., 1998; Trigunayat, 1999;Yakovlev and\r\nNakonechnyi, 2001; Rose and Walia, 2003; Bhaskaran and\r\nEswaran, 2005; Thakur et al, 2006; Uniyal, 2007 and\r\nWithrington and Veronik, 2008 and after comparison of adults\r\nfrom our national Museum at Forest Research Institute,\r\nDehradun and Indian Agricultural Research Institute, New\r\nDelhi. The detail of the family diagnosis and species\r\ncharacters are given below:\r\nI. FAMILY NYMPHALIDAE\r\nHead vertex smooth, labial palpi three segmented,\r\nupcurved, maxillary palpi one segmented, haustellum naked,\r\nantennae filliform, clubbed, antennalpecten absent, ocelli\r\nabsent, chaetosemata present, tympana absent, venation\r\nBiological Forum – An International Journal, 1(1): 12 -17 (2009)\r\nA primary report on Rhopalocera diversity (Lepidoptera) from district\r\nUna of Himachal Pradesh, India\r\nP.C. Pathania and Anita Kumari*\r\nDepartment of Entomology, Punjab Agricultural University, Ludhiana\r\n*Department of Biosciences, Vinayaka Missions University, Salem, Tamil Nadu\r\nABSTRACT : Twenty-eight species belonging to nineteen genera i.e., Aglais Dalman, Anosia Hübner, Ariadne\r\nHorsifield, Hypolimnas Hübner, Junonia Hübner, Lethe Hübner, Morpho Fabricius, Neptis Fabricius, Pyronia\r\nHübner, Satyrus Westwood, Papilio Linnaeus, Atella Doubleday, Catopsilia Hübner, Cepora Billberg, Colias Fabricius,\r\nDelias Hübner, Eurema Hübner, Ixias Hübner and Pieris Schrank of the three families i.e., Nymphalidae, Papilionidae\r\nand Pieridae of the Superfamily Papilionoidea were collected from fifteen localities of district Una in Himachal\r\nPradesh. Besides material examined their old distribution alongwith host plants (if any) were also provided.\r\nKeywords : Geographical, Rhopalocera, Lepidoptera, Diversity\r\nForum — An International Journal, 1(2): 69-77(2009) ISSN : 0975-1130\r\n70 Pathania and Kumari\r\nvariable, wing coupling absent, forewing pterostigma absent,\r\nforewing chorda absent, forewing anal veins A1+\r\n2,forewing\r\ncell vein absent, hindwing pterostigma absent, hindwing anal\r\nveins A1+2A3, hindwing cell vein absent, epiphysis absent,\r\ntibial spurs absent in fore legs and two each in mid legs\r\nand hind legs.\r\nGenus Aglais Dalman\r\nAglais Dalman , 1816, K.Vet.Acad.Handl.Stockh., (1):\r\n56.\r\n1. Aglais urticae rizana (Moore)\r\nVanessa urticae rizana Moore, 1872, Proc. Zool Soc.\r\nLond.,: 559.\r\nMaterial examined: Himachal Pradesh: Distt.Una;\r\nRaipur, 545m, 2.viii. 2008, 1 , 2 ; Bharwain, 708m,\r\n17.viii.2008, 2 , 1 , coll. Anita Kumari and P.C. Pathania.\r\nDistribution: Sikkim, Himalayas (www.nhm.ac.uk);\r\nHimalayas from Kashmir to Sikhim (Bingam, 1905); Bharwain,\r\nRaipur (H.P.) (present study).\r\nLarval host Plant: Unknown.\r\nRemarks: The marking and colours of rizana Moore\r\nare similar to kashmirensis Kollar but the markings are more\r\nsharply defined and the colours are much brighter. In the\r\npresent studies, the species is being reported from Raipur\r\nand Bharwain of District Una (H.P.) for the second time as\r\nit has earlier been reported from the Himalayas from Kashmir\r\nto Sikhim.\r\nGenus Anosia Hübner\r\nAnosia Hübner, 1816, Verz. bekantt. Schmett. (1):15-16.\r\n2. Anosia chrysippus Linneaus\r\nAnosia chrysippus Linneaus, 1758, Syst.Nat. (Edn.x):\r\n471.\r\nMaterial examined: Himachal Pradesh: Distt. Una;\r\nChauki Maniar, 530m, 5.vii. 2008, 1 ; Haroli, 375m, 1.viii.2008,\r\n2 , coll. Anita Kumari and P.C.Pathania.\r\nDistribution: Griechenlan (Inseln) (www.nhm.ac.uk.);\r\nSouthern Europe, Syria, Ethiopian Region, Arabia, Persia and\r\nAfghanistan (Bingham, 1905); Chauki maniar, Haroli (H.P.),\r\n(present study).\r\nLarval host Plant: Calotropis gigantean (Bingham,\r\n1905).\r\nRemarks: Three females individuals collected between\r\nan elevation of 375m to 530m has been identified as Anosia\r\nchrysippus Linnaeus from the National Pusa Collection, IARI,\r\nNew Delhi.\r\nGenus Ariadne Horsifield\r\nAriadne Horsifield, 1829, Cat.Lep.Ins.Mus.E.India.Co.: 3.\r\n3. Ariadne merione tapestrina (Moore)\r\nErgolis merione tapestrina Moore, 1884 J.A.S.B. Liii.:\r\n19.\r\nMaterial examined: Himachal Pradesh: Distt. Una;\r\nDehlan, 374m, 4.viii. 2008, 1 , 1 , coll. Anita Kumari and\r\nP.C.Pathania.\r\nDistribution: India (www.nhm.ac.uk.); the northern half\r\nof continental India, Shimla to Sikhim in the Himalayas,\r\nRajputana, Bengal, Assam, Burma, Tenasserim, Malayan\r\nsubregion (Bingham, 1905); Dehlan, (H.P.), (present study).\r\nLarval host Plant: Tragia cannabina and T. involucrata\r\n(Bingham, 1905).\r\nRemarks: As per old distribution, the reporting of above\r\nmentioned species from Shimla to Sikkim in Himalayas and\r\nthe collection of two individual (one male and one female )\r\nis an additional distribution record from Shivalik range of\r\nHimalayas.\r\nGenus Hypolimnas Hübner\r\nHypolimnas Hübner, 1819, Verz. bekantt. Schmett, : 45.\r\n4. Hypolimnas misippus misippus Linnaeus\r\nHypolimnas misippus misippus Linnaeus, 1764, Mus.\r\nUlr.: 264.\r\nMaterial examined: Himachal Pradesh: Distt. Una; Haroli,\r\n375m, 1.viii. 2008, 2 , coll. Anita Kumari and P.C. Pathania.\r\nDistribution: Regio Indica, Africa, Australia, Guiana\r\n(www.nhm.ac.uk.); in Himalayas upto 6000 feet; extending\r\nto the Malayan subregion and China, (Bingham, 1905); Haroli\r\n(H.P.), (present study).\r\nLarval host Plant: Portulaco oleracea (Bingham, 1905).\r\nRemarks: Earlier, this species has been recorded from\r\nHimalayas (6000 feet) and the collected samples of this is\r\nan additional distribution record from Himalayas i.e., from\r\nUna district of Himachal Pradesh.\r\nGenus Junonia Hübner\r\nJunonia Hübner, 1819, Verz. bekantt. Schmett: 34, 35.\r\n5. Junonia almana almana (Linnaeus)\r\nJunonia almana almana Linnaeus, 1758, Syst. Nat: 472,\r\nn.89.\r\nMaterial examined: Himachal Pradesh: Distt. Una; Una,\r\n370m, 21.v. 2008, 2 , 1 ; Santokhgarh, 378m, 1.iv. 2008,\r\n1 , coll. Anita Kumari and P.C.Pathania.\r\nDistribution: India, China (www.nhm.ac.uk); Una,\r\nSantokhgarh (H.P.),(present study).\r\nLarval host Plant: Mimulis gracilis, Rice crop (Bingham,\r\n1905).\r\nRemarks: Junonia almana almana (Linnaeus) has been\r\nPathania and Kumari 71\r\nreported from above mentioned localities having altitudinal\r\nrange between 370m to 378m representing Shivalik range of\r\nHimalayas.\r\n6. Junonia atlites atlites (Linnaeus)\r\nPrecis atlites atlites Linneaus, 1763, Amoen. Acad.6:\r\n407, n.72.\r\nMaterial examined: Himachal Pradesh: Distt. Una;\r\nGagret, 472m, 1.vi. 2008, 2 , coll. Anita Kumari and\r\nP.C.Pathania.\r\nDistribution: India, China, Java (www.nhm.ac.uk); Gagret\r\n(H.P.), (present study).\r\nLarval host Plant: Unknown.\r\nRemarks: In the present studies, two males specimens\r\nwere collected from Gagret (472m) and is identified as\r\nJunonia atlites atlites (Linnaeus) after comparison with\r\nNational Pusa Collection, IARI, New Delhi.\r\n7. Junonia lemonias lemonias (Linnaeus)\r\nPrecis lemonias lemonias Linnaeus, 1758, Syst. Nat.:\r\n473.\r\nMaterial examined: Himachal Pradesh: Distt. Una;\r\nBangana, 573m, 17.v. 2008, 1 , 1 ; Chauki maniar, 530m,\r\n5.viii. 2008, 3 ; Dehlan, 374m, 4.viii. 2008, 2 , coll. Anita\r\nKumari and P.C.Pathania.\r\nDistribution: Regio Indica. (www.nhm.ac.uk); Bangana,\r\nChauki maniar, Dehlan (H.P.),(present study).\r\nLarval host Plant: Unknown.\r\nRemarks: The above said species has been identified\r\nafter comparison with refrence collection housed at National\r\nPusa Collection, IARI, New Delhi.\r\n8. Junonia orithya Linnaeus\r\nJunonia orithya Linnaeus, 1764, Mus. Ulr. :278.\r\nMaterial examined: Himachal Pradesh: Distt. Una;\r\nDaulatpur, 436m, 24.iii. 2008, 2 , 1 ; Amb, 484m, 5.iv.2008,\r\n1 , 3 ; Bangana, 573m, 17.v.2008, 4 , 1 , coll. Anita\r\nKumari and P.C.Pathania.\r\nDistribution: Regio, Indica, Africa, (www.nhm.ac.uk.)\r\nIndia, Ceylon, Assam, Burma, Tenasserim, China and the\r\nMalayan Subregion (Bingham, 1905); Daulatpur, Amb,\r\nBangana (H.P.), (present study).\r\nLarval host plant: Amaranthus sp., Sweet Potato\r\n(Bingham, 1905).\r\nRemarks: The forms in this genus are very variable.\r\nSeasonal polymorphism is very prevalent among them, and\r\nindividual aberrations not uncommon. Specimens from Burma\r\nand other regions of heavy rainfall are more richly coloured\r\nthan those procured from the dry districts of India. The\r\ncollection of this species from different areas of district Una\r\nshows that this is a very common and is a serious pest of\r\nvegetables in the areas (Bingham, 1905).\r\nGenus Lethe Hübner\r\nLethe Hübner,1819, Verz. bekantt. Schmett.: 56.\r\n9. Lethe europa nudgara Fabricius\r\nLethe europa nudgra Fabricius, 1775, Syst. Ent.: 500.\r\nMaterial examined: Himachal Pradesh: Distt. Una;\r\nBharwain, 708m, 17.viii. 2008, 3 , coll. Anita Kumari and\r\nP.C.Pathania.\r\nDistribution: Jawa, Bawean, Kagean, Nias, Philippinen\r\n(www.nhm.ac.uk.); the plains of northern India, lower hill of\r\nthe Himalayas, Assam, Burma, Tenasserin, extending to China\r\nand the Malay Peninsula (Bingham, 1907); Bharwain (H.P.),\r\n(present study).\r\nLarval host Plant: Unknown.\r\nRemarks: The species has earlier been reported from\r\nlower hills of the Himalayas and plains of north India yet,\r\nits present collections from the Bharwain (708m) of Una\r\ndistrict represents the additional record from north-west\r\nIndia.\r\nGenus Morpho Fabricius\r\nMorpho Fabricius, 1807, Ill. Mag. 6:280.\r\n10. Morpho perseus perseus (Crammer)\r\nMycalesis perseus perseus Crammer, 1779, Pap. Ex.1:71.\r\nMaterial examined: Himachal Pradesh: Distt. Una; Amb,\r\n484m, 5.iv. 2008, 1 ; Bangana, 573m, 17.v.2008, 1 ; Haroli,\r\n375m, 1.viii.2008, 2 , coll. Anita Kumari and P.C.Pathania.\r\nDistribution: Himalayas, Kangra to Sikhim, Bhutan,\r\nBengal, Southern India, Ceylon, China and Malayan\r\nSubregion (Bingham, 1905); Amb, Bangana, Haroli (H.P.),\r\n(present study).\r\nLarval host Plant: Grasses (Bingham, 1905).\r\nRemarks: A sample comprising four female specimens\r\ncollected between an elevation range 375m to 573m has been\r\nidentified as Morpho perseus perseus (Crammer) (Bingham,\r\nloc.cit.). All these individuals were found to be highly\r\nconspecific in nature after examination of morphological\r\ncharacters. The species has been reported from Himalayas\r\n(Kangra) and collection of this from Una district is an\r\nadditional distributional record from Himalayas.\r\nGenus Neptis Fabricius\r\nNeptis Fabricius, 1807,Ill.Mag.6 :282.\r\n11. Neptis hylas astola Linnaeus\r\nNeptis hylas astola Linnaeus, 1758, Syst. Nat. (Edn.x.):\r\n486.\r\nMaterial examined: Himachal Pradesh: Distt. Una;\r\n72 Pathania and Kumari\r\nDaulatpur, 436m, 24.iii. 2008, 1 , 1 ; Chintpurni, 710m,\r\n7.v.2008, 1 , coll. Anita Kumari and P.C.Pathania.\r\nDistribution: India (www.nhm.ac.uk.); Western and east\r\nHimalayas, Khasis Hills, and Upper Burma (Moore, 1890);\r\nDaulatpur, Chintpurni (H.P.), (present study).\r\nLarval host Plant: Large flower Mexican clover (Moore,\r\n1890).\r\nRemarks: The species has been identified as Neptis\r\nhylas astola Linnaeus after its comparison with reference\r\ncollection at Indian agriculture Research Institute, New Delhi.\r\nThough, it has earlier been reported from Western and East\r\nHimalayas, Khasis Hills and upper Burma yet, its present\r\ncollection from Una district is an additional distributional\r\nrecord from Himalaya.\r\nGenus Pyronia Hübner\r\nPyronia Hübner,1816, Verz. bekannt. Schmett.,: 59.\r\n12. Pyronia kashmirensis (Ruhl)\r\nVanessa kasmirensis Ruhl, 1894, Pal Grosschmett : 596.\r\nMaterial examined: Himachal Pradesh: Distt. Una;\r\nMubarakpur, 490m, 15.iii. 2008, 3 , 2 ; Daulatpur, 436m,\r\n24.iii.2008, 1 , 4 , coll. Anita Kumari and P.C.Pathania.\r\nDistribution: The Himalayas from Kashmir to Sikhim\r\n(Bingham, 1905); Mubarkpur, Daulatpur (H.P.),(present\r\nstudy).\r\nLarval host Plant: Unknown.\r\nRemarks: The entire sample comprising ten individual\r\ncollected from an elevation range of 436m to 490m. Three\r\nmales and two females from Mubarakpur and one male and\r\nfour females from Daulatpur have been collected and found\r\nto be conspecific after critical examination of their\r\nmorphological characters. The species has already been\r\ncollected from Kashmir to Sikhim and the localities from\r\nwhich it has been collected are additional records from North-\r\nWest Himalayas.\r\nGenus Satyrus Westwood\r\nSatyrus Westwood, 1851, Cen.diurn.Lep. 2: 72.\r\n13. Satyrus swaha (Kollar)\r\nAulocera swaha Kollar, 1844, Hugel’s Kashmir, 4:444.\r\nMaterial examined: Himachal Pradesh: Distt. Una;\r\nMubarkpur, 490m, 15.iii. 2008, 2 ; Bangana, 573m, 17.v.\r\n2008, 3 , coll. Anita Kumari and P.C.Pathania.\r\nDistribution: Sikkim, Tschitral (www.nhm.ac.uk)\r\nHimalayas from Kashmir to east Kumaun (Bingham, 1905);\r\nMubarkpur, Bangana (H.P), (present study).\r\nLarval host Plant: Wild blue Iris (different grasses),\r\n(Bingham, 1905).\r\nRemarks: Having known from Himalayas from India,\r\nthe collection of Aulocera swaha (Kollar) from Mubarkpur\r\nand Bangana (Himachal Pradesh) in the Himalayan range is\r\nits second distributional record from India as such.\r\nII. FAMILY PAPILIONIDAE\r\nHead vertex very smooth, labial palpi three segmented,\r\nupcurved, maxillary palpi one segmented, haustellum naked,\r\nantennae filliform, clubbed, antennal pecten absent, ocelli\r\nabsent, chaetosemata present, tympana absent, venation\r\nvariable, wing coupling absent, forewing pterostigma absent,\r\nforewing chorda absent, forewing anal veins A1A2, forewing\r\ncell vein absent, hindwing pterostigma absent, hindwing anal\r\nveins A1 + 2, hindwing cell vein absent, epiphysis present,\r\ntibial spurs absent in fore legs and mid legs and two in\r\nhind legs.\r\nGenus Papilio Linnaeus\r\nPapilio Linnaeus, 1758, Syst. Nat, (Edn.x)1: 458.\r\n14. Papilio demoleus demoleus Linnaeus\r\nPapillio demoleus Linnaeus ,1758, Sept. Nat.( Edn.x):\r\n464, n.35.\r\nMaterial examined: Himachal Pradesh: Distt.Una;\r\nDehlan, 374m, 4.viii. 2008, 5 ; Bangana, 573m, 17.v. 2008,\r\n5 , 3 , coll. Anita Kumari and P.C.Pathania.\r\nDistribution: China, Eainan, Tonkin, N.S.India, Ceylon,\r\nPerain (www.nhm.ac.uk); Ceylon, India, Northern Burma,\r\nPersia, Arabia (Bingham, 1907); Dehlan, Bangana (H.P.),\r\n(present study).\r\nLarval host Plant: Citrus (Bingham, 1907).\r\nRemarks: During the course of present studies, a\r\nsample comprising thirteen individuals (ten males and three\r\nfemales) from above mentioned localities have been collected\r\nand identified as Papillio demoleus Linnaeus (Bingham,\r\n1907). In view of large sample, the collected materials were\r\nfound to be conspecific after critical examination of their\r\nmorphological characters (mouth parts, antennae, legs, wing\r\nmaculation and wing venation). The species seems to be\r\nquite common in the aforesaid localities.\r\n15. Papilio polytes nikobarus Linnaeus\r\nPapilio polytes Linnaeus, 1758, Syst. Nat (Edn. x): 460,\r\nn 7.\r\nMaterial examined: Himachal Pradesh: Distt. Una;\r\nGagret, 472m, 1.vi. 2008, 1 , 1 ; Raipur, 545m, 2.viii. 2008,\r\n4 , 2 , coll. Anita Kumari and P.C.Pathania.\r\nDistribution: Liu-Kiu, Formosa, China, Eainan, Tonkin,\r\nCeylon, Perain (www.nhm.ac.uk) Andamans (Bingham, 1907);\r\nGagret, Raipur (H.P), (present study).\r\nPathania and Kumari 73\r\nLarval host Plant: Citrus, Murraya, Triphasia,\r\nXanthoxylon (Talbot, 1939).\r\nRemarks: The species under refrence viz. Papillio\r\npolytes nikobarus Linnaeus shows some white spot near\r\napex and on the termen margin of the fore wing. Hind wing\r\nwavy and produced a tail at tornus. The collected material\r\nshows that this species is common in the area mentioned\r\nabove.\r\nIII. FAMILY PIERIDAE\r\nHead vertex very smooth, labial palpi three segmented,\r\nupcurved, maxillary palpi absent, haustellum naked, antennae\r\nfilliform, clubbed, antennal pecten absent, ocelli absent,\r\nchaetosemata present, tympana absent, venation variable,\r\nwing coupling absent, forewing pterostigma absent, forewing\r\nchorda absent, forewing anal veins A1+\r\n2,forewing cell vein\r\nabsent, hindwing pterostigma absent, hindwing anal veins\r\nA1+2A3, hindwing cell vein absent, epiphysis present, tibial\r\nspurs lacking in fore legs and two each in mid legs hind\r\nlegs.\r\nGenus Atella Doubleday\r\nAtella Doubleday, 1847, Gen. D. Lep. (1). 165.\r\n16. Atella phalantha phalantha Horsifield\r\nAtella phalantha phalantha Horsifield, 1829, Cat Lep.\r\nE. Ind. Comp.: 7.\r\nMaterial examined: Himachal Pradesh: Distt. Una; Basoli,\r\n398m, 31.vii.2008, 2 , 5 ; Raipur, 545m, 2.viii.2008, 1 ,\r\n2 , coll. Anita Kumari and P.C.Pathania.\r\nDistribution: Throughout Continental India, Ceylon,\r\nAssam, Burma, Tenasserin, China, Japan and the Malayan\r\nSubregion (Bingham, 1905); Basoli, Raipur (H.P.), (present\r\nstudy).\r\nLarval host Plant: Flacourtia species (Bingham, 1905).\r\nRemarks: This species are very variable in colour, some\r\nspecimens being almost white and some bright green, the\r\nmarkings are usually silver, or tipped with red.\r\nGenus Catopsilia Hübner\r\nCatopsilia Hübner, 1823, Verz.bekantt.Schmett.: 98.\r\n17. Catopsilia pomona catilla Crammer\r\nCatopsilia pomona catilla Crammer, 1779, Pap. Exot.\r\n3: 63, pl. 229.\r\nMaterial examined: Himachal Pradesh: Distt. Una;\r\nSantokhgarh, 368m, 1.iv. 2008, 1 , 1 ; Basoli, 398m,\r\n31.vii.2008, 2 , 4 , coll. Anita Kumari and P.C.Pathania.\r\nDistribution: Ceylon, India, Burma, Andaman and\r\nNicobar Islands, South China to Solomon Islands and\r\nAustralia (Talbot, 1839); Santokhgarh, Basoli (H.P.), (present\r\nstudy).\r\nLarval host Plant: Cassia fistula (Talbot, 1939).\r\nRemarks: The species has already been reported from\r\nIndia as per its old distribution. In the present studies, it is\r\nreported from Santokhgarh and Basoli of district Una (H.P.)\r\nis an additional distribution record. It seems that the species\r\nis common in the area.\r\n18. Catopsilia pomona hilaria Crammer\r\nCatopsilia pomona hilaria Crammer, 1781 Pap.Exot.\r\n4:95, pl. 339.\r\nMaterial examined: Himachal Pradesh: Distt. Una;\r\nGagret, 472m, 1.vi. 2008, 2 , 2 ; Basoli, 398m, 31.vii.2008,\r\n1 , 3 , coll. Anita Kumari and P.C.Pathania.\r\nDistribution: Ceylon, India, Burma Andaman and\r\nNicobar Islands; South China to Solomon Islands and\r\nAustralia (Talbot 1939); Gagret, Basoli (H.P.), (present study).\r\nLarval host Plant: Cassia fistula (Talbot,1939).\r\nRemarks: This species is the usual form in India, where\r\nthe entire yellow forms appears to be absent. It is reported\r\nfrom Gagret (472m) and Basoli (398m), which is its additional\r\ndistribution record from India. All the eight specimens (three\r\nmales and five females) were found to be conspecific after\r\ncomparison with their morphological characters (head, mouth\r\nparts, antennae, labial palpi, maxillary palpi, wings and thorax)\r\nand the species was identified from National Pusa Collection,\r\nIARI, New Delhi. The collected sample shows that it is\r\ncommon in these areas.\r\n19. Catopsilia pyranthe minna Linnaeus\r\nCatopsilia pyranthe minna Linnaeus, 1758, Syst.Nat.\r\n(Edn.x) 1: 469.\r\nMaterial examined: Himachal Pradesh: Distt. Una;\r\nDaulatpur, 436m, 24.iii. 2008, 6 , 1 ; Bangana, 573m,\r\n17.v.2008, 3 , coll. Anita Kumari and P.C.Pathania.\r\nDistribution: Celebes, Baluchistan to Malay Penninsula,\r\nBorneo, Sumatra, Java, South China, Formosa, Haonan to\r\nPhilippines, India. (www.nhm.ac.uk.); Ceylon, India, Burma\r\nand Andaman Islands extending to Hainan, Formosa and\r\nSouth China, South and East to Borneo, Java, Celebes and\r\nthe Philippines. (Talbot, 1939); Daulatpur, Bangana (H.P.),\r\n(present study).\r\nLarval host Plant: Cassia tora, Cassia auriculata\r\n(Talbot, 1939).\r\nRemarks: This species is very common in the above\r\nmentioned localities. The sample being recorded as\r\nCatopsilia pyranthe minna Linnaeus has found to be\r\nconspecific after examination of various morphological\r\ncharacters of nine males an one females.\r\nGenus Cepora Billberg\r\nCepora Billberg, 1820, Enumer.Ins.,:76.\r\n74 Pathania and Kumari\r\n20. Cepora nerissa phryne Fabricius\r\nCepora nerissa phryne Fabricius, 1775, Syst. Ent. : 473.\r\nMaterial examined: Himachal Pradesh: Distt. Una; Amb,\r\n484m, 5.iv. 2008, 1 , 6 , coll. Anita Kumari and\r\nP.C.Pathania.\r\nDistribution: N.W. Himalayas (to 4000ft)\r\n(www.nhm.ac.uk.); Nepal, Sikhim, Bhutan, Bengal, Assam,\r\nupper and lower Burma, Tenasserim, Thailand and China\r\n(Bingham, 1907); Amb (H.P.), (present study.\r\nLarval host Plant: Capparis sp. (Bingham, 1907).\r\nRemarks: One species i.e., Cepora nerissa phryne\r\nFabricius of the genus Cepora Fabricius is collected from\r\nan elevation 484m from Amb of Una district. All the seven\r\nspecimens seems to be congeneric after critical examination\r\nof their morphological characters.The species is being\r\nreported for the second time from North-West Himalayas.\r\nGenus Colias Fabricius\r\nColias Fabricius, 1807, Ill.Mag. 6:284.\r\n21. Colias fieldi edusina Leech\r\nColias fieldi edusina Leech, 1893, Butt. China, 2: 438,\r\npl.35, f: 6,7.\r\nMaterial examined: Himachal Pradesh: Distt. Una; Haroli,\r\n375m, 1.viii.2008, 5 , ; Dehlan, 374m, 4.viii.2008, 6 ,\r\n3 , coll. Anita Kumari and P.C.Pathania.\r\nDistribution: Sikkim to North Burma (2500-14000 ft.) and\r\nNorth Yunnan (www.nhm.ac.uk.); Baluchistan to North\r\nPunjab, Sikkim and northern Burma, Western Himalayas\r\n(Bingham, 1907); Haroli, Dehlan (H.P.), (present study).\r\nLarval host Plant: Feed on leguminosae, Trifolium\r\n(Bingham,1907).\r\nRemarks: The present sample comprising fifteen\r\nindividuals (eleven males and four females) from the two\r\nlocalities i.e., Haroli and Dehlan, which is an additional\r\ndistribution record of this species from Himalayas. The\r\npresent collection record shows that this species is very\r\ncommon in above mentioned areas.\r\n22. Colias hyale glicia Linnaeus\r\nColias hyale glicia Linnaeus, 1758, Syst. Nat. (Edn.x),\r\nI: 71.\r\nMaterial examined: Himachal Pradesh: Distt. Una;\r\nBangana, 573m, 17.v.2008, 2 , 1 , coll. Anita Kumari and\r\nP.C.Pathania.\r\nDistribution: North (except South Russia), North Africa.\r\n(www.nhm.ac.uk.); Baluchistan, the Himalayas from Chitral,\r\nKashmir to Bhutan and Palaearctic region (Bingham, 1907);\r\nBangana (H.P.), (present study).\r\nLarval host Plant: Trifolium (Bingham, 1907).\r\nRemarks: During present investigation, three\r\nindividuals (2 males, 1 female) from Bangana (573m) have\r\nbeen collected and identified as Colias hyale glicia Linnaeus\r\n(Bingham, 1907) and after comparison of National Pusa\r\nCollection, Indian Agricultural research Institute, New Delhi.\r\nGenus Delias Hübner\r\nDelias Hübner, 1820, Verz. bek. Schmett., p.91.\r\n23. Delias eucharis Drury\r\nDelias eucharis Drury, 1773, Ill. Ex. Ent.2, pl. 10 f.5.\r\nMaterial examined: Himachal Pradesh: Distt. Una;\r\nChintpurni, 710mm, 7.vi. 2008, 2 ; Chauki Maniar, 530mm,\r\n5.vii.2008, 1 1 , coll. Anita Kumari and P.C.Pathania.\r\nDistribution: India, Ceylon (Talbot, 1939); Chintpurni,\r\nChauki Maniar (H.P.), (present study).\r\nLarval host Plant: Loranthus sp., Dalbargia sisoo,\r\nFicus glomerata (Talbot, 1939).\r\nRemarks: The species has been identified from the\r\nrelevant literature (Bingham, 1907; Talbot, 1939) besides our\r\nreference collection.\r\nGenus Eurema Hübner\r\nEurema Hübner, 1819, Verz. bek. Schmett. : 96.\r\n24. Eurema hecabe merguiana Linnaeus\r\nEurema hecabe merguiana Linnaeus, 1758, Syst.\r\nNat.(Edn.x) : 470.\r\nMaterial examined: Himachal Pradesh: Distt. Una; Amb,\r\n484m, 5.iv. 2008, 4 , 2 , Basoli, 398m,31.vii.2008, 5 ,\r\n4 , coll. Anita Kumari and P.C.Pathania.\r\nDistribution: South China, Bengal, Sikkim, Burma, Siam,\r\nLankawi Island, Malay Pensula (www.nhm.ac.uk.); Spread\r\neastwards to Siam and China, South far into the Malayan\r\nsubregion, and to west into parts of Ethiopian Region\r\n(Bingham, 1907); Amb, Basoli (H.P.), (present study).\r\nLarval host Plant: Sesbania aculeate (a monsoon\r\nannual) and Cassia tora (Bingham, 1907).\r\nRemarks: The above mentioned species has been\r\nidentified after its comparison with reference collection\r\nhoused at National Pusa Collection, Division of Entomology,\r\nIndian Agricultural Research Institute, New Delhi. From the\r\ncollected material it seems that the species is quite common\r\nin these areas.\r\nGenus Ixias Hübner\r\nIxias Hübner, 1820, Verz. bek. Schmett.,: 95.\r\n25. Ixias marianne Crammer\r\nIxias marianne Crammer, 1779, Exot. III :41,: 217.\r\nPathania and Kumari 75\r\nMaterial examined: Himachal Pradesh: Distt. Una;\r\nDaulatpur, 436m, 24.iii. 2008, 1 , 1 ; Amb, 484m, 5.vii.2008,\r\n1 , coll. Anita Kumari and P.C.Pathania.\r\nDistribution: S. India, Ceylon. (www.nhm.ac.uk.); Ceylon\r\nto Peninsular, India, Punjab, Kumaon (Talbot ,1939);\r\nDaulatpur, Amb (H.P.), (present study).\r\nLarval host Plant: Capparis sepiaria, C. divaricata,\r\nC.aphylla and C. grandis (Talbot ,1939).\r\nRemarks: The species is subject to much variations,\r\nmany all transitional forms occur between the extreme wet\r\nseason and extreme dry ones (Talbot, 1939).\r\n26. Ixias pyrene cingalensis Linneaus\r\nIxias pyrene cingalensis Linneaus, 1764, Mus. Ulr.,:\r\n241.\r\nMaterial examined: Himachal Pradesh: Distt. Una;\r\nSantokhgarh, 368m, 1.viii. 2008, 3 …; Chauki Maniar,,\r\n530m, 5.vii.2008, 2 …; Haroli, 375m, 1.viii.2008, 4 …,\r\ncoll. Anita Kumari and P.C.Pathania.\r\nDistribution: China (www.nhm.ac.uk.); Ceylon (Talbot,\r\n1939); Santokhgarh, Chauki Maniar, Haroli (H.P.), (present\r\nstudy).\r\nLarval host Plant: Capparis sepiara (Talbot, 1939).\r\nRemarks: This species is the most variable and most\r\nwidely distributed and many names have been given to its\r\nvarieties (Talbot, 1939).\r\nGenus Pieris Schrank\r\nPieris Schrank, 1801, Fauna Boica, 2, (1):152, 164.\r\n27. Pieris brassicae Linnaeus\r\nPieris brassicae Linnaeus, 1758, Syst.Nat. (Edn.x), 467.\r\nMaterial examined: Himachal Pradesh: Distt. Una;\r\nMubarakpur, 490m, 15.iii. 2008, 3 , 1 ; Santoshgarh, 368m,\r\n1.iv.2008, 2 , 4 ; Bangana, 573m, 17.v.2008, 3 , 2 ,\r\ncoll. Anita Kumari and P.C.Pathania.\r\nDistribution: Europe to Asia Minor (www.nhm.ac.uk.);\r\nEurope, Northern Asia Central Asia, Himalayas from Chitral\r\nto Bhutan (upto 10,000 feet), North-west India Umballa\r\n(Bingham, 1907); Mubarkpur, Santokhgarh, Bangana (H.P.),\r\n(present study).\r\nLarval host Plant: Brassica plants (Bingham, 1907).\r\nRemarks: This is a very common species and is a\r\nserious pest on Brassica sp. Larvae feeds voraciously of\r\nBrassica sp. plants and cause damage to the plant parts.\r\n28. Pieris mesentima lordaca Walker\r\nPieris mesentima lordaca Walker, 1870, Entom., 5: 48.\r\nMaterial examined: Himachal Pradesh: Distt. Una;\r\nBangana, 573m, 17.v. 2008, 2 ; Bharwain, 708m, 17.viii.2008,\r\n2 , coll. Anita Kumari and P.C.Pathania.\r\nDistribution: Himalayas from Kashmir to Sikhim, plains\r\nto southern India (Bingham, 1907); Bangana, Bharwain (H.P.),\r\n(present study).\r\nLarval host Plant: Capparis aphylla, Caparris sepiaria,\r\nCapparis heyneana, Cadaba indica, Maerua arenaria\r\n(Talbot, 1939).\r\nRemarks: The above mentioned old distribution clearly\r\nshows the presence of this species from Himalayas from\r\nKashmir to Sikkim. The collection of four specimens (four\r\nmales) from Una district represent its additional distribution\r\nrecord in said area.','P.C. Pathania and Anita Kumari (2009). A primary report on Rhopalocera diversity (Lepidoptera) from district Una of Himachal Pradesh, India. Biological Forum – An International Journal 1(2): 69-77'),(4676,'130','Diversity, utilization pattern and indigenous uses of plants in and\r\naround a cement factory in Bilaspur district of Himachal Pradesh,\r\nNorth-Western Himalaya','Pankaj Sharma and N.K. Mishra*','20_Pankaj.pdf','',1,'Studies to assess the diversity, utilization pattern and indigenous uses of plants in and around a\r\ncement factory in Barmana region of Bilaspur district in Himachal Pradesh were carried out from September,\r\n2007 to July, 2008. A total of 217 species of plants belonging to 68 families and 160 genera were recorded. Among\r\nthese ecologically and economically important species, shrub (42 spp.), tree (56 spp.), herb (119 spp.) were present.\r\nThe species were used as medicine (85 spp.), wild edible/food (86 spp.), fuel (54 spp.), fodder (71 spp.), ornamental\r\n(11 spp.) timber (9 spp.) and religious (5 spp.) by the inhabitants of the area. The paper gives scientific name of\r\nwild plants along with authority, local names, family, life form, indigenous uses and plant part used by the local\r\npeople of the region. Different parts of these species, such as whole plants, roots (including rhizomes and tubers),\r\nleaves, flowers, fruits, seeds and stems are used by the inhabitants for curing various diseases.','Diversity, indigenous uses, Himachal Pradesh, inhabitants, utilization pattern','Studies to assess the diversity, utilization pattern and indigenous uses of plants in and around a\r\ncement factory in Barmana region of Bilaspur district in Himachal Pradesh were carried out from September,\r\n2007 to July, 2008. A total of 217 species of plants belonging to 68 families and 160 genera were recorded. Among\r\nthese ecologically and economically important species, shrub (42 spp.), tree (56 spp.), herb (119 spp.) were present.\r\nThe species were used as medicine (85 spp.), wild edible/food (86 spp.), fuel (54 spp.), fodder (71 spp.), ornamental\r\n(11 spp.) timber (9 spp.) and religious (5 spp.) by the inhabitants of the area. The paper gives scientific name of\r\nwild plants along with authority, local names, family, life form, indigenous uses and plant part used by the local\r\npeople of the region. Different parts of these species, such as whole plants, roots (including rhizomes and tubers),\r\nleaves, flowers, fruits, seeds and stems are used by the inhabitants for curing various diseases.','The Indian Himalayan Region (IHR) covers\r\napproximately 4, 19,873 km2 area (Rodger & Panwar, 1988)\r\nand extends from Jammu & Kashmir in the North-West to\r\nthe Arunachal Pradesh in the East, supports representative,\r\nnatural, unique and socio-economically important floristic\r\ndiversity. This may be due to unique topography; diverse\r\nhabitats and large altitudinal range (200-8,000). This has been\r\nidentified one of the mega biodiversity hotspots (Hasan et\r\nal., 2009) and supports 18,440 species of plants (Singh &\r\nHajra, 1996; Samant et al., 1998) of which 25.3% are endemic\r\nto the Himalaya, 1748 medicinal plants (Samant et al., 1998),\r\n675 wild edibles (Samant & Dhar, 1997), 279 fodder species\r\n(Samant et al., 1998), 155 sacred plants (Samant & Pant,\r\n2003), 118 essential oil plants with medicinal values (Samant\r\n& Palni, 2000). Due to the dependence of local communities\r\non plant resources for various purposes such as, medicine,\r\nfood (wild edible), fodder, fuel, timber, making agricultural\r\ntools, fibre, religious, etc., the population of many\r\neconomically important plants is depleting fast.\r\nHimachal Pradesh very well known for its typical\r\ntopography, large altitudinal range, diverse habitats and\r\nsocio-economically important biodiversity, is also facing high\r\npressures. Though, the official records show that of the\r\ntotal geographical area, about 66.45% area is under forests;\r\n59.3% under protected forests and 3.41% under Reserve\r\nForests and 32 notified protected areas (Singh et al., 1990).\r\nIn Himachal Pradesh, also many developmental activities like\r\ndevelopment of hydroelectric projects, road construction,\r\nindustrial setups, etc. are going on high momentum. These\r\nactivities are destroying biodiversity of the region many\r\nways. The review of literature showed that the studies on\r\nimpact of these developmental activities on biodiversity are\r\nvery few in general (Samant et al., 2007) and such type of\r\nstudies are not available in the study area. Therefore,\r\npresent study focused to the assessment of diversity,\r\nutilization pattern and indigenous uses of plants in the\r\nstudy area.\r\nMATERIAL AND METHODS\r\nThe nearby areas in and around the cement factory\r\nwere surveyed for the collection and identification of plants\r\nfrom September, 2007 to July, 2008. The information about\r\nutilization pattern of medicinal plants was generated through\r\nParticipatory Rural Appraisal (PRA) and Indigenous uses of\r\nplants were gathered from the secondary sources\r\n(Anonymous 1970-1983, Singh and Rawat 2000, Samant et\r\nal. 1998, Samant and Palni 2000). The samples of each plant\r\nspecies were collected and identified with the help of local\r\nflora (Chowdhery and Wadhwa 1984, Dhaliwal and Sharma\r\n1999, Singh and Rawat 2000). For nomenclature of the\r\nspecies, Anonymous (1970-1983) and Samant et al. (1998)\r\nwere followed.\r\nSTUDY AREA\r\nHimachal Pradesh, includes parts of the Trans and\r\nNorthwest Himalaya covers 55, 673 km2; 9% of the IHR.\r\nThe state has a large altitudinal range (200-7109m), with\r\ndiverse habitats, species, populations, communities and\r\necosystems. The Bilaspur district of Himachal Pradesh is\r\nDiversity, utilization pattern and indigenous uses of plants in and\r\naround a cement factory in Bilaspur district of Himachal Pradesh,\r\nNorth-Western Himalaya\r\nPankaj Sharma and N.K. Mishra*\r\nBiodiversity Conservation and Management Theme,G.B. Pant Institute of Himalayan Environment and Development,\r\nHimachal Unit, Mohal-Kullu (H.P.) INDIA\r\n*Bio-Technology & Environmental Sciences, The Technological Institute of Textile & Sciences, Bhiwani (H.R.) INDIA\r\nABSTRACT : Studies to assess the diversity, utilization pattern and indigenous uses of plants in and around a\r\ncement factory in Barmana region of Bilaspur district in Himachal Pradesh were carried out from September,\r\n2007 to July, 2008. A total of 217 species of plants belonging to 68 families and 160 genera were recorded. Among\r\nthese ecologically and economically important species, shrub (42 spp.), tree (56 spp.), herb (119 spp.) were present.\r\nThe species were used as medicine (85 spp.), wild edible/food (86 spp.), fuel (54 spp.), fodder (71 spp.), ornamental\r\n(11 spp.) timber (9 spp.) and religious (5 spp.) by the inhabitants of the area. The paper gives scientific name of\r\nwild plants along with authority, local names, family, life form, indigenous uses and plant part used by the local\r\npeople of the region. Different parts of these species, such as whole plants, roots (including rhizomes and tubers),\r\nleaves, flowers, fruits, seeds and stems are used by the inhabitants for curing various diseases.\r\nKeywords : Diversity, indigenous uses, Himachal Pradesh, inhabitants, utilization pattern\r\nBiological Forum – An International Journal, Forum — An International Journal, 1(21)(:1 7):8-1820(-21070(92)009) ISSN : 0975-1130\r\nSharma and Mishra 79\r\nmostly hilly and climate of the region is generally temperate\r\ncompared to the near plains of Punjab. The study area\r\nBarmana is about 18 Km north of Bilaspur. In the study\r\narea ACC Cement factory is situated at 31° 25.022‘ N Latitude\r\nand 76° 49.789‘E Longitude at an altitude 547m amsl. The\r\nfactory lies on the banks of river Satluj at a place Barmana.\r\nThe total area covered by the factory is about 184 hectare.\r\n15 villages are situated in the nearby area of the factory are\r\naffected both positively and negatively. The total population\r\nof the region is 7,930.\r\nRESULTS AND DISCUSSION\r\nDiversity\r\nIn the present study total number of 217 species of\r\nplants belonging to 68 families and 160 genera were\r\nrecorded. Among these species shrub (42 spp.), tree (56\r\nspp.), herb (119 spp.) were present. The families, Poaceae\r\n(18 spp.); Asteraceae (17 spp.); Fabaceae (16 spp.); Moraceae\r\n(9 spp.); Lamiaceae (9 spp.); Brassicaceae (8 spp.);\r\nEuphorbiaceae (7 spp.); Rosaceae (6 spp.) were species rich.\r\nAmong genera, Ficus (7 spp.), Brassica (6 spp.), Emblica\r\n(4 spp.), Ipomoea (3 spp.), Saccharum (3 spp.), Vigna (3\r\nspp.), Trifolium (3 spp.), Debregeasia (2 spp.) were the\r\ndominant genera. 25 species were of multipurpose utility\r\nand 26 families were monotypic.\r\nUtilization Pattern\r\nThe plant diversity is used as medicine (85 spp.), wild\r\nedible/food (86 spp.), fuel (54 spp.), fodder (71 spp.),\r\nornamental (11 spp.), timber (9 spp.) and religious purpose\r\n(5 spp.). Various notable medicinal plants species were Ajuga\r\nbracteosa, Mentha arvensis, Ageratum conyzoides, Ocimum\r\nsanctum, Vitex negundo, Viola pilosa, Urtica dioica,\r\nCannavis sativa, Nicotiana tabacum, Cassia fistula,\r\nMomordica charantia, Foeniculum vulgare, Colocasia\r\nesculenta, Chenopodium album, Curcuma longa, Zingiber\r\nofficinale, Adhatoda vasica, Yucca aloifolia, Calotropis\r\ngigantea, etc.; edible/food species were Allium cepa, Allium\r\nsativum, Colocasia esculenta, Spinacia oleracea, Cucurbita\r\nmaxima, Momordica charantia, Juglans regia, Solanum\r\ntuberosum, Lycopersicon esculentum, Saccharum\r\nofficinarum and Pisum sativum, etc.; fuel species were\r\nDendrocalamus strictus, Toona ciliata, Albizia lebbeck,\r\nEucalyptus hybridus, Pinus roxburghii, Dodonaea, etc.;\r\nfodder species were Bauhinia variegata, Ehretia laevis,\r\nTrifolium alexandrum, Listea monopetala, Albizia lebbeck,\r\nAlbizia chinensis, Morus alba, Avena sativa, Randia\r\ntetrasperma, etc.; ornamental species were Tagetes erecta,\r\nIpomoea carnea, Salvia coccinea, Hibiscus rosa-sinensis,\r\nCallistemon citrinus, etc.; timber species were Dalbergia\r\nsissoo, Albizia lebbeck, Grevillea robusta, Melia azedarach,\r\netc., and religious species were Asparagus racemosus,\r\nOcimum sanctum, Ficus religiosa, Cynodon dactylon, etc.\r\nIndigenous Uses\r\nAmong 217 species of economically important plants,\r\nindigenous uses of the plant resources for medicine, edible,\r\nfodder, fuel, timber, ornamental, religious and various other\r\npurposes is very well known. Among medicinal plants, the\r\nwhole plant of Ajuga bracteosa used in fever, malaria, blood\r\npurifier, burns, cold; the leaves of Mentha arvensis are used\r\nin stomachache, Ocimum sanctum in bronchitis, cholera, cold,\r\nconstipation, cough, diarrhoea, headache, leprosy; the leaves\r\nof Vitex negundo are used in bodyache, blisters, cold,\r\ndiarrhea, cough, fever, piles, swellings, skin diseases, ulcers\r\nand wounds; Viola pilosa used as antipyretic, cold, cough,\r\nfever and lung disorder; Urtica dioca as antiseptic, boils,\r\nwounds, dandruff, diarrhea, gout, rheumatism, jaundice,\r\nnephritis, sprain, swell and throat disorder; leaves of\r\nCannabis sativa used in appetite, bowel complaints,\r\nbronchitis, cough, convulsions, cramps, ear complaints, eye\r\ndisorder, gonorrhea, hydrocele, piles, sores and tetanus;\r\nNicotiana tabacum used in itching, food poisoning,\r\nhaemostatic, snake bite, toothache and wounds; Cassia\r\nfistula in abdominal pain, antifertility, antiseptic, asthma,\r\nblindness, burns, cancer, chest infections, constipation,\r\ncough, jaundice, leprosy, pimples, toothache and swelling\r\nof throat; Berberis asiatica used in snake bite, eye\r\ncomplaints, malaria and piles; Momordica charantia used\r\nin excess bile, diabetes, eczema, malaria and sores; Bark and\r\nleaves of Juglans regia are used as astringent, rheumatism,\r\nsores of toes, toothache; the fruit of Luffa acutangula used\r\nin cramps, fever, jaundice, madness, scabies and syphilis,\r\ntetanus and snake bite (tendril); Foeniculum vulgare used\r\nin burning sensation in body, carminative, chest disorder,\r\ncolic, cough, dysentery, fever, flatulence, headache, kidney,\r\nmenstrual complaints, thirst, toothache and wounds;\r\nChenopodium album used in skin disorders, urine\r\ncomplaints; Curcuma longa in atrophy, antifertility,\r\nblindness, bronchitis, carbuncle, cholera, cold, cough,\r\ndyspepsia, eye disorder, fever, fistula, headache, indigestion,\r\nleprosy, pain in body, migraine, scabies, sores, syphilis and\r\nwounds; Zingiber officinale used in asthma, bronchitis,\r\ncholera, constipation, diarrhea, cough, indigestion, insect\r\nstings, phthisis, postnatal, puerperal fever, scabies, scorpion\r\nsting, snake bite and soar; Helianthus annuus in bone\r\nfracture, carbuncle, colic disorder, diarrhoea, dysentery, eye\r\ncomplaints, fever, nose bleeding, snake bite, sores, spleen\r\ncomplaints, wounds and toothache.\r\nBark of Grewia oppositifolia is used for making ropes,\r\nleaves/twig of Ficus religiosa is used for religious purposes\r\n(burnt at the time of Havan) and wood of Melia azedarach\r\nis used to prepare agricultural tools such as plough. 25\r\nspecies have multipurpose utility e.g. Bauhinia variegata\r\nis used as edible, fodder and fuel; Ocimum sanctum for\r\nmedicine, religious and edible leaves; Cynodon dactylon for\r\nmedicine, fodder and leaves used in the religious purposes;\r\nEucalyptus hybridus is used medicine, fodder, fuel and\r\n80 Sharma and Mishra\r\ntimber in making many agricultural tools; Vitex negundo is\r\nused as fuel, fodder, medicine and twig of this plants used\r\nas brush for cleaning the teeth, Seeds of Helianthus annuus\r\nare used for making edible oil, leaves of Brasica campestris\r\nused as vegetable. Underground stem of Curcuma domestica\r\nused to make turmeric (Haldi) and serves as blood purifier\r\nand tuber of Zingiber officinale used as condiment in\r\ndishes.','Pankaj Sharma and N.K. Mishra (2009). Diversity, utilization pattern and indigenous uses of plants in and around a cement factory in Bilaspur district of Himachal Pradesh, North-Western Himalaya. Biological Forum – An International Journal 1(2): 78-80. '),(4677,'130','Innovative approach for assessment of status of lessknown medicinal\r\nplants in Sehore and Bhopal districts, M.P.','Dolly Parmar','21_Dolly.pdf','',1,'Less known medicinal plants were studied in Sehore and Bhopal districts to suggest appropriate\r\nstrategies for research development and sustainable management. The status of medicinal plants under different\r\nparameters and causes of decline due to natural (drought) and man-made reasons (habitat loss, over harvesting of\r\nuseful parts by destructive and unsustainable methods) were studied. A new approach has been developed to\r\nassess the status of 10 species of medicinal plants. The approach comprise of six criteria viz. habitat (5 parameters),\r\necology (3 parameters), biology (6 parameters), use/trade (3 parameters), collection (4 parameters), and legal &\r\ninstitutional (4 parameters). All the parameters have been ranked into three categories namely low, medium and\r\nhigh with scoring of 1, 2 and 4 marks. Each of the ten species were studied and ranked according to these\r\nparameters. Based on these considerations detailed studies were made on the following species viz. Boerhaavia\r\ndiffusa Linn., Enicostema littorale Blume,Plumbago zeylanica Linn., Gardenia gummifera Linn. f.,Helicteres isora\r\nLinn., Woodfordia fruticosa Kuntze, Celastrus paniculatus Willd., Cocculus hirsutus Linn., Nyctanthes arbor-tristris\r\nLinn, Semecarpus anacardium Linn. f. Attempts were made to know the status of medicinal plants due to degradation\r\nof natural habitats, biotic disturbances and their exploitation. Attempts have been made to suggest strategy for\r\nthe conservation and sustainable utilization. Suggestions are given for capacity building of primary collectors and\r\ncertification of medicinal plants as “Organic or Natural Products”.','Medicinal plants, assessment, harvesting','Less known medicinal plants were studied in Sehore and Bhopal districts to suggest appropriate\r\nstrategies for research development and sustainable management. The status of medicinal plants under different\r\nparameters and causes of decline due to natural (drought) and man-made reasons (habitat loss, over harvesting of\r\nuseful parts by destructive and unsustainable methods) were studied. A new approach has been developed to\r\nassess the status of 10 species of medicinal plants. The approach comprise of six criteria viz. habitat (5 parameters),\r\necology (3 parameters), biology (6 parameters), use/trade (3 parameters), collection (4 parameters), and legal &\r\ninstitutional (4 parameters). All the parameters have been ranked into three categories namely low, medium and\r\nhigh with scoring of 1, 2 and 4 marks. Each of the ten species were studied and ranked according to these\r\nparameters. Based on these considerations detailed studies were made on the following species viz. Boerhaavia\r\ndiffusa Linn., Enicostema littorale Blume,Plumbago zeylanica Linn., Gardenia gummifera Linn. f.,Helicteres isora\r\nLinn., Woodfordia fruticosa Kuntze, Celastrus paniculatus Willd., Cocculus hirsutus Linn., Nyctanthes arbor-tristris\r\nLinn, Semecarpus anacardium Linn. f. Attempts were made to know the status of medicinal plants due to degradation\r\nof natural habitats, biotic disturbances and their exploitation. Attempts have been made to suggest strategy for\r\nthe conservation and sustainable utilization. Suggestions are given for capacity building of primary collectors and\r\ncertification of medicinal plants as “Organic or Natural Products”.','All plants have potential medicional value. This was\r\nrecognized more than 1000 years ago in Asthanga Hridaya.\r\nPlants are being used for cure of human ailments since time\r\nimmemorial in different geographic locales. Ayurveda is one\r\nof the oldest systems of medicine in India and a number of\r\nancient texts like the Atharva veda, Charak Samhita ,\r\nSushruta samhita etc. This old books indicates that natural\r\nhabitats were maintained in those times and plants were\r\nsustainably harvested ensuring their continuous availability.\r\nSubsequently, the exploitation pressure on medicinal plants\r\nincreased concomitant to the increase in population and\r\nrequirement, consequently most of the useful plants became\r\nrare (Basu & Kirtikar; 1918).\r\n(i) Assessment of status of medicinal plants. The result\r\nof these CAMP workshops for South India enlists about\r\n112 medicinal plant taxa under various degrees of threats\r\nranging from “threatened” to extinct in the wild. This is\r\nmainly due to over use of plants of medicinal and economic\r\nsignificance. The 1997 IUCN red list of threatened plants\r\npublished by the IUCN Species Survival Commission (SSC)\r\npresents a shocking picture of nearly 34000 species, or 12.5\r\n% of the world’s flora, facing extinction. Using the same\r\nproportion for recorded medicinal plants, India’s nearly 1000\r\nnative medicinal species are expected to fall in to threatened\r\ncategory.\r\n(ii) The causes of decline. The entrepreneurs were under\r\npressure to meet the demands for which they resorted to\r\nsome of the unsustainable practices. These include premature\r\nharvesting, destructive harvesting, overharvesting, lack of\r\nquality control, compromise on quality of raw material etc.\r\n(Kotwal and Bhattacharya, 1999).\r\n(iii) Trade in medicinal plants. Adulteration makes the\r\nmedicines either less effective, ineffective or harmful (Mishra\r\nand Ram Prasad, 1994). Though Ayurveda specifies usage\r\nof 1200 to 1500 medicinal plants, contemporary Ayurvedic\r\nIndustry consume around 550-600 medicinal plant species\r\nfor large-scale production of herbal products. Out of these\r\naround 90% are procured from wild areas mostly from the\r\nforest. Another category of medicinal plants consists of\r\nspecies which grow in wild as well as cultivated. More then\r\n70% of the collections involve destructive harvesting from\r\nthe wild for use of the parts like flowers, fruits, seeds, roots,\r\nbark, wood, stem and the entire plant (herbs). These pose a\r\ndefinite threat to the distribution and population of medicinal\r\nplants. The Government of India banned export of some 29\r\nspecies of medicinal plants. Various studies being done over\r\na period has indicated risk of extinction of valuable species\r\ndue to high industrial demand. The results of a series of\r\nConservation Assessment and Management Plan workshops\r\n(CAMP) held in various parts of the country to assess the\r\nthreat status of important medicinal plants are alarming. if\r\nconservation efforts are not strictly implemented then these\r\nInnovative approach for assessment of status of lessknown medicinal\r\nplants in Sehore and Bhopal districts, M.P.\r\nDolly Parmar\r\nGovt. N.S.P. Science College Indore (M.P.) INDIA\r\nABSTRACT : Less known medicinal plants were studied in Sehore and Bhopal districts to suggest appropriate\r\nstrategies for research development and sustainable management. The status of medicinal plants under different\r\nparameters and causes of decline due to natural (drought) and man-made reasons (habitat loss, over harvesting of\r\nuseful parts by destructive and unsustainable methods) were studied. A new approach has been developed to\r\nassess the status of 10 species of medicinal plants. The approach comprise of six criteria viz. habitat (5 parameters),\r\necology (3 parameters), biology (6 parameters), use/trade (3 parameters), collection (4 parameters), and legal &\r\ninstitutional (4 parameters). All the parameters have been ranked into three categories namely low, medium and\r\nhigh with scoring of 1, 2 and 4 marks. Each of the ten species were studied and ranked according to these\r\nparameters. Based on these considerations detailed studies were made on the following species viz. Boerhaavia\r\ndiffusa Linn., Enicostema littorale Blume,Plumbago zeylanica Linn., Gardenia gummifera Linn. f.,Helicteres isora\r\nLinn., Woodfordia fruticosa Kuntze, Celastrus paniculatus Willd., Cocculus hirsutus Linn., Nyctanthes arbor-tristris\r\nLinn, Semecarpus anacardium Linn. f. Attempts were made to know the status of medicinal plants due to degradation\r\nof natural habitats, biotic disturbances and their exploitation. Attempts have been made to suggest strategy for\r\nthe conservation and sustainable utilization. Suggestions are given for capacity building of primary collectors and\r\ncertification of medicinal plants as “Organic or Natural Products”.\r\nKeywords : Medicinal plants, assessment, harvesting\r\nBiological Forum – An International Journal, 1(1): 12 -17 Forum — An International Journal, 1(2): 81-85(200(92)009) ISSN : 0975-1130\r\n82 Parmar\r\nare likely to become extinct. The turnover of the Indian\r\nherbal drug industry was Rs. 2300 crore during 1997 and\r\nreached around Rs. 4000 crore by year 2000.] The total\r\nestimated quantity of exports was 36200 tones in the year\r\n2000. It is estimated that this raised to Rs. 3000 crore by\r\n2005 and may go up to Rs. 10000 crore by 2010 as per\r\nPlanning Commission, 2000. At present the share of India in\r\nworld Herbal Market is quite insignificant due to the lack of\r\norganization both at cultivator/ collector as well as industry\r\nlevel.\r\n(iv) Sustainable harvesting. Sustainability is very\r\nimportant aspect particularly in production and harvesting\r\nof medicinal plants. Harvesting of medicinal herbs from the\r\nwilderness is economically profitable as compared to\r\ncultivated species. Competition for collection of more\r\nquantity has resulted in the early and over harvest of such\r\nspecies from the more accessible sites. The bulk is picked\r\nwhen plants are only 2/3rd or even half of their potential\r\nsize. This is one of the main causes of pre mature harvesting\r\non open access land.\r\nMATERIALS AND METHODS\r\n(A) Study area. The study was conducted in Bhopal\r\nand Sehore districts of Madhya Pradesh. Bhopal is situated\r\non 23°16’ north latitude and 77°25’ east longitude. The total\r\narea of the district is 2778.0 sq. km. Sehore is the parent\r\ndistrict of Bhopal. It is about 35 Km. West of Bhopal. The\r\narea of Sehore district lies between latitudes 23° 33’ to 23°\r\n38’ 52’’ N and longitudes 76° 36’ to 76° 59’’. The total area\r\nof the district is 6563. 68 sq. km. (Gazetteer, 1999).\r\n(B) Methodology. The objectives of the study was to\r\nstudy the traditional uses of less known medicinal plants\r\nand suggest appropriate strategies for research development\r\nand sustainable management. At the initial stage it was very\r\ndifficult to precisely decide the names of less known plants\r\nof the study area about which detailed studies were to be\r\nmade. A list of important medicinal plants of the study area\r\nwas prepared (Hains, 1916). This was based on frequent\r\nfield visits, study of literature and discussion with herbal\r\npractitioners. Thereafter the species for detailed studies were\r\nselected. The criteria for selection were based on occurrence\r\nof the species in different habitats, their importance and\r\nrelatively less known for traditional uses in the area. The\r\nweb site of Google (Internet web site) was searched on the\r\nInternet for all the important medicinal plants of the study\r\narea. The number of searches was categorized in three\r\ncategories viz. 1. Less known: Number of searches = upto\r\n1000; 2. More known: Number of searches = 1001 to 3000\r\nand 3. Most known: Number of searches => 3000.\r\nThe “Rapid Vulnerability Assessment” (RVA) method\r\nwas also considered that collects information to identify\r\nspecies, resources or sites that may be at risk of over\r\nexploitation. A questionnaire and data format was specially\r\ndeveloped for the study covering following aspects :\r\nBased on these considerations the following species\r\nwere selected for detailed study. Boerhaavia diffusa Linn.,\r\nEnicostema littorale Blume, Plumbago zeylanica\r\nLinn., Gardenia gummifera Linn.f., Helicteres isora Linn.,\r\nWoodfordia fruticosa Kuntze,Celastrus paniculatus Willd.,\r\nCocculus hirsutus Linn., Nyctanthes arbor-tristris Linn and\r\nSemecarpus anacardium Linn. f. For all these species, six\r\ncategories viz. habitat (5 parameters), ecology (3 parameters),\r\nbiology (6 parameters), use/trade (3 parameters), collection\r\n(4 parameters), and legal & institutional (4 parameters) with\r\na total of 25 parameters were identified. These were arrived\r\nafter study of relevant literature, discussion with the\r\nknowledgeable persons and field situation in the study area.\r\nAll the parameters have been ranked into three categories\r\nnamely low, medium and high with scoring of 1, 2 and 4\r\nmarks. Each of the ten species were studied and ranked\r\naccording to these parameters as in Table-1.','Dolly Parmar (2009). Innovative approach for assessment of status of lessknown medicinal plants in Sehore and Bhopal districts, M.P.Biological Forum – An International Journal 1(2): 81-87.'),(4678,'130','Multivariant analysis of drinking water quality parameters of lake\r\nPichhola in Udaipur, India','Premlata Vikal','22_Premlata.pdf','',1,'An attempt has been made to work out the physico-chemical characteristics of the Pichhola lake\r\nwater. In order to ascertain the drinking water quality, various parameters like air and water temperature, pH,\r\nfree CO2, dissolved oxygen, biochemical oxygen demand, chemical oxygen demand, conductivity, total dissolved\r\nsolids, hardness, total alkalinity, chloride, nitrate, phosphate and sulphate were studied. The results revealed that\r\nthe values of conductivity, COD, and sulphate were found to cross the standard limits in water samples. The\r\ncoefficient of correlation (r) among various physico-chemical parameters was also made.','Lake Pichhola, Physico-chemical parameters, water quality','An attempt has been made to work out the physico-chemical characteristics of the Pichhola lake\r\nwater. In order to ascertain the drinking water quality, various parameters like air and water temperature, pH,\r\nfree CO2, dissolved oxygen, biochemical oxygen demand, chemical oxygen demand, conductivity, total dissolved\r\nsolids, hardness, total alkalinity, chloride, nitrate, phosphate and sulphate were studied. The results revealed that\r\nthe values of conductivity, COD, and sulphate were found to cross the standard limits in water samples. The\r\ncoefficient of correlation (r) among various physico-chemical parameters was also made.','Udaipur is truly famous for its beautiful lakes and\r\nwatercourses. The city is popularly known by the phrase of\r\nthe “City of Lakes”. Lake Pichhola is one of the most\r\nbeautiful and picturesque lakes of Rajasthan, India. Located\r\nin the heart of city, it is the oldest and one of the largest\r\nfreshwater lakes of Udaipur. In 1362, it was built by a nomad\r\nnamed Pichhu during the ruling period of Maharana Lakha.\r\nIt is situated towards the west of Udaipur city between the\r\nparallels 24º33’15\" and 24º34’59\" north latitudes and\r\n73º39’32\" and 73º41’08\" east longitudes (Vikal and Tyagi,\r\n2007). It is an important source of potable water supply for\r\nthe Udaipur City. Water quality is an index of health and\r\nwell being of a society. Pollution of water bodies is one of\r\nthe areas of major concern to environmentalists.\r\nIndustrialization, urbanization and modern agriculture\r\npractices have direct impact on the water resources. These\r\nfactors influence the water resources quantitatively as well\r\nas qualitatively. The city sewage and industrial effluent drains\r\ninto the lake and pollutes the water quality. Its water quality\r\nhas become a matter of concern due to continuous changing\r\nenvironment and increasing social and industrial activity that\r\ninfluence the physico-chemical properties of water directly\r\nor indirectly. Because of these reasons an attempt has been\r\nmade to study the physico-chemical properties in order to\r\nascertain the potability of water of Lake Pichhola.\r\nMATERIAL AND METHODS\r\nAt Lake Pichhola two sampling stations were selected,\r\nnamely Bansi Ghat (Sampling Site I) and Maaji Ka Mandir\r\n(Sampling Site II) for the present investigation.\r\nHydrobiological studies of both the sampling sites were\r\ncarried out for one year from Jan., 2006 to Dec., 2006. On\r\nmonthly basis water samples (1.5-2.0 lit.) were collected in\r\nacid washed polythene bottles during morning hours\r\nbetween 7.00 A.M. to 10.00A.M. at a depth of 30 cm with\r\nprecautions, so as to prevent any vertical disturbance. For\r\nDO and BOD determination samples were collected in 300\r\nml capacity BOD glass bottles and DO was fixed at the\r\nspot. Air and water temperatures were also noted down on\r\nthe spot. Water samples were brought to laboratory,\r\nDepartment of Botany, M.L.S. University, Udaipur and\r\nanalyzed soon after on the same day and data recorded.\r\nThe water samples were analyzed for air and water\r\ntemperatures, pH, free carbon dioxide, dissolved oxygen\r\n(DO), biochemical oxygen demand (BOD), chemical oxygen\r\ndemand (COD), conductivity, total dissolved solids (TDS),\r\nhardness, total alkalinity, chloride, nitrate, phosphate, and\r\nsulphates as per standard methods (Trivedi and Goel, 1986;\r\nManivasakam, 1996 and APHA, 1998).\r\nRESULTS AND DISCUSSION\r\nBoth air and water temperatures are important which\r\ndetermines the distribution of different life forms. Both air\r\nand water temperature were found to be maximum in the\r\nmonth of May, 06 (30.55ºC) at sampling site I and in June,\r\n06 (30.5ºC) at sampling site II. In our study it has been\r\nfound that air and water temperatures go more or less parallel\r\nproving the fact that the atmospheric temperature governs\r\nwater temperature. Welch (1952), Naik and Purohit (1996),\r\nMishra and Patel (2001), Yadav (2003) and other workers\r\nhave supported above trends. The temperature is one of\r\nthe vital factors which control the occurrence and abundance\r\nof phytoplankton in lentic ecosystem (Nazneen, 1980 and\r\nVeerendra et al., 2006).','Premlata Vikal (2009). Multivariant analysis of drinking water quality parameters of lake Pichhola in Udaipur, India. Biological Forum – An International Journal 1(2): 86-91.'),(4679,'130','Extraction and evaluation of antimicrobial activity of Cissus\r\nquadrangularis Linneaus','Garima Mishra, Saurabh Srivastava and B.P. Nagori','23_Garima.pdf','',1,'Since ancient ages plants have served human beings as a natural source of treatments and\r\ntherapies, amongst them medicinal herbs have gain attention because of its wide use and less side effects. Cissus\r\nquadrangularis Linneaus has been used by common man in India for promotion of fracture healing and well\r\nknown as “Hadjod”. Antibacterial and antifungal activity of n-hexane, chloroform, ethyl acetate, methanol and\r\naqueous extracts of Cissus quadrangularis Linn. was studied. The methanolic and aqueous extracts showed\r\nremarkable inhibitory activity against various gram-positive and gram-negative bacteria where as moderate\r\ninhibitory effect against test fungal strains. The n-hexane, chloroform and ethyl acetate extract were not found\r\nto be active against any bacterial or fungal strain. The activity of methanolic and aqueous extracts was also\r\ncompared with antibiotic Norfloxacin (NFX) and antifungal Ketoconazole (KTZ).','Cissus quadrangularis, Antimicrobial activity, Extraction, Norfloxacin','Since ancient ages plants have served human beings as a natural source of treatments and\r\ntherapies, amongst them medicinal herbs have gain attention because of its wide use and less side effects. Cissus\r\nquadrangularis Linneaus has been used by common man in India for promotion of fracture healing and well\r\nknown as “Hadjod”. Antibacterial and antifungal activity of n-hexane, chloroform, ethyl acetate, methanol and\r\naqueous extracts of Cissus quadrangularis Linn. was studied. The methanolic and aqueous extracts showed\r\nremarkable inhibitory activity against various gram-positive and gram-negative bacteria where as moderate\r\ninhibitory effect against test fungal strains. The n-hexane, chloroform and ethyl acetate extract were not found\r\nto be active against any bacterial or fungal strain. The activity of methanolic and aqueous extracts was also\r\ncompared with antibiotic Norfloxacin (NFX) and antifungal Ketoconazole (KTZ).','Cissus quadrangularis Linneaus (Vitaceae) is a common\r\nperennial climber, which is distributed throughout India\r\nparticularly in tropical regions. It is commonly known as\r\nHadjod, Asthisamhara, Harjora, Vedhari and Hadbhanga in\r\nIndian languages. In English it is called as Edible-stemmed\r\nVine. It is prescribed both in Ayurveda as well as Unani\r\nsystems for its medicinal use as an alternative, anthelmintic,\r\nanti-inflammatory, dyspeptic, digestive, tonic, analgesic in\r\neye and ear diseases, and in the treatment of irregular\r\nmenstruation. It is very useful in asthma, fractures and back\r\npain. The plant extracts also exhibit cardiotonic property.\r\nThe Cissus quadrangularis Linn. Has been recognized as a\r\nrich source of carotenoids, triterpenoids and ascorbic acid\r\nand is proved to have potential for medical effects, including\r\n“Gastroprotective activity” in conjugation with NSAID\r\ntherapy and in “Lipid metabolism and oxidative stress”. The\r\nCissus quadrangularis plant contains high amount of vitamin\r\nC, Carotene A, anabolic steroidal substances and calcium.\r\nStem contains two asymmetric tetracyclic triterpenoids;\r\nOnocer-7-ene-3b-21a diol & Onocer-7ene 3a, 21 diol. The\r\npresent research focuses on the extraction as well as\r\nevaluation of the efficacy of various extracts of Cissus\r\nquadrangularis against different test bacterial and fungal\r\ncultures.\r\nMATERIAL AND METHODS\r\nThe plant was collected from Pharmanza India Herbals,\r\nKhambhat (Gujrat) and authenticated by Dr. V. Singh,\r\nAdditional Director, Botanical Survey of India, Jodhpur. The\r\nplant was air dried, powdered and standardized and\r\nparameters were determined to evaluate the quality and purity\r\nof crude drug. The calculated values were compared with\r\nthe standard values (as per Ayurvedic Pharmacopoeia of\r\nIndia). From the results, it was found that all calculated\r\nvalues lie within the limits and so the collected drug material\r\nwas of standard quality and purity (Table-1).\r\nTable 1 : Values of standardization parameters.\r\nParameter Calculated Value Standard Value\r\n(%w/w) (%w/w)\r\nTotal ash 4.2 NMT 5%\r\nWater soluble\r\nextractives 24.5 NLT 23%\r\nPreparation of Extract\r\nAir dried powdered whole plant of Cissus\r\nquadrangularis Linn. was exhaustively extracted with\r\nvarious solvents like n-hexane, chloroform, ethyl acetate,\r\nethanol and methanol using soxhlet apparatus. Aqueous\r\nextract was obtained by maceration. These extracts were\r\ndried and dissolved in water. The dissolution was facilitated\r\nby sufficient quantity of Dimethylsulph-oxide (DMSO). As\r\nthe principal active constituents of the plant are saponins,\r\nphytosterols and phenolic compounds, which are polar in\r\nnature, so extracted best in the solvent of the highest\r\npolarity along with other polar constituents. (Table-2)\r\nTable 2 : Yield of extracts.\r\nExtract Amount of powder Yield Yield\r\nextracted (g) (g) (%w/w)\r\nn. Hexane 1000 4.85 0.485%\r\nChloroform 300 5.84 1.75%\r\nEthyl acetate 300 7.42 2.23%\r\nMethanol 300 12.73 3.82%\r\nAqueous 300 15.0 5.00%\r\nExtraction and evaluation of antimicrobial activity of Cissus\r\nquadrangularis Linneaus\r\nGarima Mishra, Saurabh Srivastava* and B.P. Nagori*\r\nSwami Vivekanand College of Pharmacy, Ramnagar, Banur (PB) INDIA\r\n*University Institute of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Panjab University, Chandigarh (PB) INDIA\r\n**Lachoo Memorial College of Science and Technology, Jodhpur (RJ) INDIA\r\nABSTRACT : Since ancient ages plants have served human beings as a natural source of treatments and\r\ntherapies, amongst them medicinal herbs have gain attention because of its wide use and less side effects. Cissus\r\nquadrangularis Linneaus has been used by common man in India for promotion of fracture healing and well\r\nknown as “Hadjod”. Antibacterial and antifungal activity of n-hexane, chloroform, ethyl acetate, methanol and\r\naqueous extracts of Cissus quadrangularis Linn. was studied. The methanolic and aqueous extracts showed\r\nremarkable inhibitory activity against various gram-positive and gram-negative bacteria where as moderate\r\ninhibitory effect against test fungal strains. The n-hexane, chloroform and ethyl acetate extract were not found\r\nto be active against any bacterial or fungal strain. The activity of methanolic and aqueous extracts was also\r\ncompared with antibiotic Norfloxacin (NFX) and antifungal Ketoconazole (KTZ).\r\nKeywords : Cissus quadrangularis, Antimicrobial activity, Extraction, Norfloxacin\r\nBiological Forum – An International Journal, Forum — An International Journal, 1(21)(:1 9):2-1927(-21070(92)009) ISSN : 0975-1130\r\nMishra, Srivastava and Nagori 93\r\nDetermination of antimicrobial activity of extracts of Cissus\r\nquadrangularis Linn.\r\nThe strains were procured from Institute of Microbial\r\nTechnology, Chandigarh and antimicrobial activity was\r\nperformed for the different extracts against strains of\r\nEscherichia coli, MTCC No.443; Bacillus subtilis, MTCC\r\nNo. 441; Staphylococcus aureus, MTCC No. 96, Candida\r\nalbicans MTCC No. 227 and Saccharomyces cerivisiae,\r\nMTCC No. 171.\r\nPreparation of reagents and media\r\nNutrient broth. Peptone (1g), beef extract 1(g) and\r\nsodium chloride (0.5g), all of bacteriological grade, were\r\ndissolved in 100 ml distilled water and the media was\r\nsterilized by autoclaving at 121°C, 15-lb/sq inch pressure\r\nfor 15 min. The pH of the media was adjusted to 7.3 ± 0.1\r\nby using 0.5 ml of N/10 NaOH.\r\nNutrient agar. Peptone (1g), beef extract (1g), sodium\r\nchloride (0.5g) and agar (2% w/v), all of bacteriological grade,\r\nwere dissolved in 100 ml distilled water and the media was\r\nsterilized by autoclaving at 121°C, 15 lb/sq inch pressure\r\nfor 15 min. The pH of the media was adjusted to 7.3 ± 0.1\r\nby using 0.5 ml of N/10 NaOH.\r\nSterile water. Distilled water (100 ml) was placed in\r\n250 ml conical flask and sterilized by autoclaving at 121°C,\r\n15-lb/sq inch pressure for 15 min.\r\nPreparation of innoculum\r\nVial containing lactose dilution (dehydrated powder) of\r\nE.coli MTCC No-443 was broken in aseptic conditions using\r\nsterile scalpel knife, its contents were added to 100 ml of\r\nsterile nutrient broth aseptically. The flask containing this\r\nbacterial suspension was incubated for 24 hrs at 37°C in\r\nB.O.D. incubator. After 24 hrs, turbidity was observed in\r\nthe flask and this culture was used to determine number of\r\ncolony forming units (CFU). Similarly inoculums were\r\nprepared for all the strains of bacteria and fungi.\r\nPreparation of stock solution of extracts\r\n10 mg of dry methanolic extract of Cissus\r\nquadrangularis Linn was dissolved in 10 ml of sterile\r\ndistilled water aseptically. The solubilization was facilitated\r\nby adding 0.05 ml of DMSO. From this a 1000 μg/ml conc.\r\nof methanol extract in stock solution was obtained. Similarly\r\nstock solution for all extracts was prepared.\r\nStandardization of innoculum\r\nTwenty-four hrs old culture of E. coli in 100 ml of\r\nnutrient broth was serially diluted in a ten-fold dilution\r\npattern according to the following steps :\r\n1. 1 ml of the culture was transferred aseptically into a\r\nsterile test tube containing 9 ml of sterile water. The\r\ntest tube was shaken vigorously for good mixing.\r\n2. 1 ml of the bacterial suspension from the first tube\r\nwas transferred aseptically into a second test tube\r\ncontaining 9 ml of sterile water. The contents were\r\nwell mixed by vigorous shaking. This procedure was\r\nrepeated ten times to get dilution of bacterial\r\nsuspension ranging from 10-1 (in 1st tube) to 10-10\r\n(in 10th test tube).\r\n3. 0.1 ml of the culture from the test tubes no. 6, 7, 8,\r\n9 and 10 was transferred separately on the surface\r\nof solidified sterile nutrient agar media, placed in\r\nsterile petri dishes. For each dilution, this procedure\r\nwas repeated three times.\r\n4. Petri dishes were incubated at 37°C for 24 hr. After\r\n24 hrs the number of colony forming units (CFU)\r\nwas counted on each petri dish. (Table 3)\r\nTable 3 : Number of colony forming units.\r\nDilution Petri dish No. CFU*\r\n1 0\r\n10– 6 2 2\r\n3 3\r\n1 9\r\n10– 7 2 8\r\n3 4\r\n1 6\r\n10– 8 2 7\r\n3 3\r\n1 8\r\n10– 9 2 12\r\n3 7\r\n1 21\r\n10– 10 2 32\r\n3 18\r\nCFU* Colony Forming Units\r\n5. Similarly all the inoculums were standardized and\r\nnumbers of CFU were counted.\r\nPreparation of stock solution of standard antibacterial\r\ndrug (Norfloxacin) and standard antifungal drug\r\n(Ketoconazole)\r\n1 mg/ml of stock solution of norfloxacin was prepared\r\nby dissolving dehydrated powder in distilled water. From\r\nthe stock solution, further dilutions were made to get\r\nsolutions of concentration ranging from 5 μg/ml to 200 μg/\r\nml. While determining MIC of test extract, 5μg/ml\r\nconcentration of norfloxacin was used as standard drug\r\nagainst the calculated CFU of given bacterial culture.\r\n1 mg/ml of stock solution of ketoconazole was prepared\r\nby dissolving the dehydrated powder in methanol. From the\r\nstock solution, further dilutions were made to get solutions\r\nof concentration ranging from 5 μg/ml to 200 μg/ml.\r\n94 Mishra, Srivastava and Nagori\r\nDetermination of MIC of various extracts against E.coli, B.\r\nsubtilis, S. aureus, C. albicans and S. cerivisiae\r\nAfter swabbing the surface of laminar air flow bench\r\nwith 70% v/v ethanol. The petri dishes were opened near\r\nflame and suitably marked in duplicate for date of\r\ninoculation, name of organism, name of drug extract and\r\nconcentration of extract used.\r\nFrom the stock solution, dilutions were made directly\r\ninto the petri dishes using sterile nutrient agar medium, while\r\nit was hot. The dilutions were made in such a manner so\r\nthat the concentration ranging from 5μg/ml to 1000 μg/ml of\r\nnutrient media were generated. The media containing different\r\ndrug concentration was allowed to solidify. When the surface\r\nof solidified media was dried completely, 0.1 ml of bacterial\r\nsuspension was added on the surface of every petri dish\r\nexcept the petri dish marked for negative control.\r\nPositive control was inoculated with bacteria but\r\ncontained no drug. All the petri dishes with positive and\r\nnegative control were transferred to incubator in inverted\r\nposition. After 24-hrs of incubation at 37°C, the petri dishes\r\nwere observed for the growth of bacteria. Similarly MIC was\r\ndetermined for all extracts against all the bacterial and fungal\r\nstrains. (Table 4-8)','Garima Mishra, Saurabh Srivastava and B.P. Nagori (2009). Extraction and evaluation of antimicrobial activity of Cissus quadrangularis Linneaus. Biological Forum – An International Journal 1(2): 92-97. '),(4680,'130','Fermentative potential of Pseudomonas aeruginosa strain for\r\nbiosurfactant production','Reeba Panesar, P.S. Panesar, D. Hasija, M.B. Bera and Harish Kumar*','25_Reeba.pdf','',1,'Biosurfactants are amphiphilic compounds, which have the significant advantages over synthetic\r\ncounterparts. The advantages of biosurfactants over their synthetic derivatives and wide range of applications\r\nhave attracted the strong interest of scientific community. These have wide range of potential applications in\r\nareas of environmental protection and management, crude oil recovery, as antimicrobial agents in health care\r\nand food processing industries. The present paper reports the evaluation of Pseudomonas aeruginosa MTCC 2297\r\nfor the production of biosurfactants. The effect of different medium components and process parameters was\r\nmonitored for the enhancement of emulsification activity. The maximum emulsification activity of 80% was\r\nobtained after 144 hrs of incubation period.','Biosurfactants, Pseudomonas aeruginosa, emulsification activity','Biosurfactants are amphiphilic compounds, which have the significant advantages over synthetic\r\ncounterparts. The advantages of biosurfactants over their synthetic derivatives and wide range of applications\r\nhave attracted the strong interest of scientific community. These have wide range of potential applications in\r\nareas of environmental protection and management, crude oil recovery, as antimicrobial agents in health care\r\nand food processing industries. The present paper reports the evaluation of Pseudomonas aeruginosa MTCC 2297\r\nfor the production of biosurfactants. The effect of different medium components and process parameters was\r\nmonitored for the enhancement of emulsification activity. The maximum emulsification activity of 80% was\r\nobtained after 144 hrs of incubation period.','Biosurfactants are amphiphilic compounds which are\r\nproduced mainly by hydrocarbon degrading microorganisms.\r\nThe molecular structures of these comprise a hydrophilic\r\nportion, which may consist of mono-, oligo- or\r\npolysaccharides, amino acids or peptides or carboxylate or\r\nphosphate groups, and a hydrophobic portion, which is\r\ncomposed of saturated or unsaturated (hydroxy) fatty acids\r\nor fatty alcohols (Dyke et al., 1991; Bodour and Miller-Maier,\r\n2002). The advantages of biosurfactants over synthetic\r\n(chemically derived) counterparts include lower toxicity,\r\nbiodegradability, selectivity, specific activity at extreme\r\ntemperatures, pH, salinity, the possibility of their production\r\nthrough fermentation, their potential applications in\r\nenvironmental protection and management, crude oil recovery,\r\nas antimicrobial agents in health care and food processing\r\nindustries. These advantages clearly put the biosurfactants\r\nahead of the synthetic counterparts and have, as a result,\r\nelevated their commercial potential.\r\nBiosurfactants have shown wide range of applications.\r\nThese compounds are capable of reducing the surface\r\ntension of the culture broth and emulsification of insoluble\r\ncarbon sources in the culture medium (Francy et al., 1991;\r\nBanat, 1995; Ron and Rosenberg, 2001). Such surface\r\nproperties made them good candidates for enhanced oil\r\nrecovery (EOR) (Banat et al., 2002). Some biosurfactants are\r\nknown to have therapeutic applications as antibiotics and\r\nantifungal or antiviral compounds. These can also be used\r\nin bioremediation of soil or sand or in the cleanup of\r\nhydrocarbon contamination in groundwater.\r\nThe compounds secreted by Pseudomonas aeruginosa\r\nconstitute a heterogeneous mixture of mono- and dirhamnolipids\r\nwhich has been used to obtain most of the\r\npublished data. However, it is interesting to evaluate the\r\nindividual contribution of each homologue to the biological\r\nproperties of the mixture, and thus obtain a molecule with\r\nthe desired properties for specific uses. The whole process\r\nof bacterial biosynthesis of rhamnolipids can be classified,\r\ntherefore, as a green process. The nature of biosurfactant\r\nvaries from strain to strain; therefore it is essential to\r\nevaluate different available strains for their biosurfactant\r\npotential and their characterization. In view of the above,\r\nthe present work was carried out to evaluate the fermentative\r\npotential of Pseudomonas aeruginosa MTCC 2297 for\r\nbiosurfactant production.\r\nMATERIAL AND METHODS\r\nMicro-organism. Pseudomonas aeruginosa MTCC 2297\r\nwas used in this work, and was procured from Microbial\r\nType Culture Collection (MTCC), Institute of Microbial\r\nTechnology, Chandigarh, India.\r\nMaintenance of Culture. The bacterial culture were\r\nmaintained on growth media containing: beef extract (1 g/L),\r\nyeast (2 g/L), peptone (5 g/L), sodium chloride (5 g/L). 250\r\nmL Erlenmeyer flask containing 50 mL of a liquid medium\r\nwere inoculated with the strain and incubated at 37°C for 24\r\nhrs. The cultures were maintained by subculturing, aseptically\r\nat fortnight intervals and stored at 4°C, until further use.\r\nPreparation of Starter Culture. The bacterial culture\r\nwas grown in 50 ml of media in 250 ml capacity Erlenmeyer\r\nflask, having the same composition as described above. After\r\nsterilization, the flasks were inoculated with a loopful of\r\nculture from capsule and incubated at 37°C for 24 hrs.\r\nProduction of Biosurfactant. The composition of\r\nfermentation medium was (g/L): NaNO3 (1.28), K2HPO4 (0.87),\r\nFermentative potential of Pseudomonas aeruginosa strain for\r\nbiosurfactant production\r\nReeba Panesar, P.S. Panesar, D. Hasija, M.B. Bera and Harish Kumar*\r\nBiotechnology Research Laboratory Deptt. of Food Engi. & Tech.\r\n*Department of Chemistry, Sant Longowal Institute of Engi. and Tech., Longowal (P.B.) INDIA\r\nABSTRACT : Biosurfactants are amphiphilic compounds, which have the significant advantages over synthetic\r\ncounterparts. The advantages of biosurfactants over their synthetic derivatives and wide range of applications\r\nhave attracted the strong interest of scientific community. These have wide range of potential applications in\r\nareas of environmental protection and management, crude oil recovery, as antimicrobial agents in health care\r\nand food processing industries. The present paper reports the evaluation of Pseudomonas aeruginosa MTCC 2297\r\nfor the production of biosurfactants. The effect of different medium components and process parameters was\r\nmonitored for the enhancement of emulsification activity. The maximum emulsification activity of 80% was\r\nobtained after 144 hrs of incubation period.\r\nKeywords : Biosurfactants, Pseudomonas aeruginosa, emulsification activity\r\nBiological Forum – An International Journal, Forum — An International Journal, 1(21)(:1 1):021-210-15(720(20090) 9) ISSN : 0975-1130\r\nPanesar, Panesar, Hasija, Bera and Kumar 103\r\nMgSO4.7H2O (0.1), NaCl (0.1), KCl (0.2), Tris (hydroxymethyl)\r\naminomethane (6.5), glucose (20); mineral salt solution (5\r\nmL). The mineral salt solution contained the following\r\ningredients (g/L): FeSO4 (NH4)2SO4.6H2O, H3BO3,\r\nCoCl2.6H2O, CuSO4.5H2O, MnSO4.H2O,\r\n(NH4)6Mo7O24.4H2O, ZnSO4.7H2O. The pH of medium was\r\ninitially adjusted to 6.7 by 1.0 M HCl. Different carbon and\r\nnitrogen sources were added to the fermentation media. The\r\nmedia was inoculated with the Pseudomonas aeruginosa\r\nMTCC 2297 strain and incubated at 37°C for 144 hrs.\r\nScreening of Carbon Sources. The effect of different\r\ncarbon substrates (glucose, kerosene, glycerol, soybean oil,\r\nmustard oil, jatropha oil) on biosurfactant production was\r\ninvestigated by supplementing individually in fermentation\r\nmedium at the concentration of 2% (w/v).\r\nScreening of Nitrogen Sources. Different nitrogen\r\nsources such as sodium nitrate, glycine, alanine, potassium\r\nnitrate, and ammonium nitrate were supplemented\r\nindividually at the concentration equivalent to 0.12% N to\r\ntest their effect on biosurfactant production.\r\nEffect of Process Parameters. The effect of different\r\nprocess parameters such as pH, temperature, and incubation\r\ntime was monitored by varying the respective parameters.\r\nEstimation of Emulsification Activity. The procedure of\r\nPruthi and Cameotra (1995) was employed to estimate the\r\nemulsification activity.\r\nEstimation of Rhamnolipid Content. The estimation of\r\nrhamnolipid content was carried using phenol sulphuric acid\r\ntest (Dubois et al., 1956).\r\nRESULTS AND DISCUSSION\r\nThe experimentation undertaken to evaluate the\r\nPseudomonas aeruginosa MTCC 2297 for production of\r\nbiosurfactant has been presented and discussed below:\r\nScreening of Carbon Sources. Screening experiments\r\nwere conducted on five carbon sources, i.e., glucose,\r\nglycerol, soybean oil, mustard oil, and jatropha oil for their\r\neffectiveness on biosurfactant production. The results of\r\nvarious carbon sources for emulsification activity under\r\nabove mentioned conditions are as shown in Fig. 1.\r\nGLUCOSE GYCEROL MUSTARD OIL SOYBEAN OIL JATROPHA OIL\r\nCARBON SOURCES\r\n80\r\n70\r\n60\r\n50\r\n40\r\n30\r\n20\r\n10\r\n0\r\nEMULSIFICATION ACTIVITY (%) Fig.1. Effect of different carbon sources on emulsification\r\nactivity of P. aeruginosa MTCC 2297.\r\nAs evident from the results that Pseudomonas\r\naeruginosa MTCC 2297 was able to grow in a medium\r\ncontaining glycerol and glucose with maximum emulsification\r\nactivity. Other carbon sources (soybean oil, mustard oil, and\r\njatropha oil) used, showed very less emulsification activity.\r\nThis suggested that the carbon source preference of the\r\nstrain for biosurfactant production, which seems to be strain\r\ndependent (Wu et al., 2008). Most microbial surfactants were\r\nsubstrate specific, solubilizing or emulsifying different\r\nhydrocarbons at different rates (Ilori and Amund, 2001). Poor\r\nemulsification of other hydrocarbons might be due to the\r\ninability of the biosurfactant to stabilize the microscopic\r\ndroplets. Also inefficient oxygen supply in the flask cultures\r\nmay be responsible for poor growth in other carbon sources,\r\nas biodegradation of these oils are known as an oxygenintensive\r\nmetabolic event. On other hand, glycerol is the\r\ncarbon source which is taken up very easily than compared\r\nto others. Our results are in agreement with those obtained\r\nusing Pseudomonas aeruginosa CFTR-6, which produced\r\nglycolipids when glycerol (2%) was used as carbon source\r\n(Itoh et al., 1971). Among the five carbon sources tested,\r\nglycerol was the best carbon source with emulsification\r\nactivity of 70%.\r\nScreening of Nitrogen Sources. Nitrogen sources such\r\nas sodium nitrate, glycine, alanine, potassium nitrate, and\r\nammonium nitrate were added to the fermentation media.\r\nAlanine and glycine were found most effective amongst these\r\nnitrogen sources (Fig. 2). Other nitrogen sources (potassium\r\nnitrate, sodium nitrate and ammonium nitrate) gave low\r\nemulsification activity, potassium nitrate being the lowest,\r\nas compared to glycerol. Among the nitrogen sources added\r\nglycine and alanine gave similar results, but considering the\r\ncost factor glycine was the most effective.\r\nSODIUM\r\nNITRATE\r\nGLYCINE ALANINE POTASSIUM\r\nNITRATE\r\nNITROGEN SOURCES\r\n80\r\n70\r\n60\r\n50\r\n40\r\n30\r\n20\r\n10\r\n0\r\nEMULSIFICATION ACTIVITY (%)\r\n90\r\nAMMONIUM\r\nNITRATE\r\nFig.2. Effect of different nitrogen sources on emulsification\r\nactivity of P. aeruginosa MTCC 2297\r\nThe studies showed that glycine is more effective in\r\nthe production of biosurfactants than nitrates, which is in\r\nagreement with other studies reported in the literature in\r\nview of nitrogen limitation (Arino et al., 1996; Shrive et al.,\r\n1995).\r\nEffect of Concentration of Glycerol\r\nThe effect of concentration of glycerol on emulsification\r\nactivity was investigated by using different glycerol\r\n104 Panesar, Panesar, Hasija, Bera and Kumar\r\nconcentrations (1-5%) in the fermentation media. General\r\ntrend of biosurfactant production initially increases with\r\nincreasing carbon substrate concentration Fig.3, until it\r\nreached a maximum value and then leveled off (Wei et. al.,\r\n2005). Maximum activity was seen with glycerol\r\nconcentration with 3%. It is evident from the results that\r\nemulsification activity was highest with glycerol\r\nconcentration of 3% after 144 hrs of incubation.\r\n85\r\n80\r\n75\r\n70\r\n65\r\n60\r\n55\r\n50\r\nEMULSIFICATION ACTIVITY (%)\r\n1 2 3 4 5\r\nCONCENTRATION OF GLYCEROL (%)\r\nFig.3. Effect of glycerol concentration on emulsification activity\r\nof P. aeruginosa MTCC 2297.\r\nEffect of Concentration of Glycine. Glycine was added\r\nto the fermentation media at different concentration of 0.15-\r\n0.55%. It is evident from Fig. 4 that the increase in the\r\nconcentration of glycine hinders the increase in\r\nemulsification activity. At very high concentration of glycine,\r\nvery low emulsification activity was observed, which could\r\nbe due to the fact that an optimum C/N ratio is required by\r\nP. aeruginosa for maximum biosurfactant production and an\r\nincrease in the nitrogen concentration results in lower\r\nrhamnose concentration as well as higher interfacial tension\r\nvalues (Guerra-Santos et al., 1984). Some reports mentioned\r\nthat biosurfactant production is more efficient under\r\nnitrogen-limiting conditions (Benincasa et al., 2002). The\r\nresults show that a possible inhibitory effect on the bacterial\r\nmetabolism may occur due to a likely nutrient transport\r\ndeficiency.\r\n0.15 0.25 0.35 0.45\r\nCONCENTRATION OF GLYCINE (%)\r\n80\r\n70\r\n60\r\n50\r\n40\r\n30\r\n20\r\n10\r\n0\r\nEMULSIFICATION ACTIVITY (%)\r\n0.55\r\n90\r\nFig.4. Effect of glycine concentration on emulsification activity of\r\nP. aeruginosa MTCC 2297.\r\nEffect of pH. The pH of the fermentation was varied\r\nfrom 6.0 to 8.0 to study its effect on emulsification activity.\r\nAt very low and very high pH i.e. at 6.0 and 8.0, very low\r\nemulsification activity was observed Fig.5. This may be due\r\nto the reason that the P. aeruginosa MTCC 2297 strain\r\ngrows only near neutral pH. Any change in media alkalinity\r\nor acidity hinders the biosurfactant production. Biosurfactant\r\nproduction was maximum between pH 6.7 and 7. These results\r\nsuggested that the optimal pH for biosurfactant production\r\nwith the MTCC 2297 strain was in the range of 6.7-7.\r\n6 6.5 6.7 7\r\npH\r\n80\r\n70\r\n60\r\n50\r\n40\r\n30\r\n20\r\n10\r\n0\r\nEMULSIFICATION ACTIVITY (%)\r\n7.5\r\n90\r\n8\r\nFig.5. Effect of pH on emulsification activity of P. aeruginosa\r\nMTCC 2297\r\nEffect of temperature. The effect of temperature on\r\nemulsification activity was studied by cultivating the bacterial\r\nstrain in media at temperature range of 30-45°C. Biosurfactant\r\nproduction increased with temperature until 37°C and then\r\ndecreased sharply above 37°C Fig.6. At very high\r\ntemperature like 40°C and above there was very low\r\nemulsification activity. Optimal growth for biosurfactants from\r\nPseudomonas has been reported at 37°C (Wei et. al., 2005;\r\nGunther et. al., 2005). The results suggested the maximum\r\nemulsification activity in batch culture of P. aeruginosa\r\nMTCC 2297 at 35-37°C.\r\n30 35 37\r\nTEMPERATURE (°C)\r\n80\r\n70\r\n60\r\n50\r\n40\r\n30\r\n20\r\n10\r\n0\r\nEMULSIFICATION ACTIVITY (%)\r\n40\r\n90\r\n45\r\nFig.6. Effect of temperature on emulsification activity of P.\r\naeruginosa MTCC 2297\r\nEffect of incubation time. The fermentation media was\r\nprepared from the above set of parameters i.e. glycerol\r\nconcentration of 3 (%, v/v), glycine concentration 0.12 (%,\r\nw/v), having pH 7.0 was incubated with stationary\r\nconditions at 35°C and samples were taken at regular\r\nintervals. From the results it can be observed that there\r\nwas continuous increase in the emulsification activity of\r\nbiosurfactant as a function of incubation period (Fig.7).\r\nEmulsification activity increased up to 144 hrs and beyond\r\nthis incubation period, it decreased, which may be due to\r\nexhaustion of nutrients, and metabolic changes in the\r\nmedium. Rhamnolipids production with the P. aeruginosa\r\nMTCC 2297 strain was confirmed with phenol sulphuric acid\r\nPanesar, Panesar, Hasija, Bera and Kumar 105\r\ntest and the rhamnolipid content of 354 mg/L with\r\nemulsification activity of 80% was observed at 144 hrs.\r\n0 24 48 72 96 120 144 168\r\nINCUBATION PERIOD (hrs)\r\nEMULSIFICATION ACTIVITY (%)\r\n90\r\n80\r\n70\r\n60\r\n50\r\n40\r\n30\r\n20\r\n10\r\n0\r\nFig.7. Effect of incubation period on emulsification activity of P.\r\naeruginosa MTCC 2297\r\nFrom the above studies, it can be concluded that P.\r\naeruginosa MTCC 2297 has good potential for biosurfactant\r\nproduction. Among the screened media components, the best\r\ncarbon source and nitrogen source for the production for\r\nthis strain was found to be glycerol and glycine, respectively.\r\nThe fermentation media having glycerol (3%) and glycine\r\n(0.12%) at pH 6.7-7.0 incubated at 35-37°C gave maximum\r\nemulsification activity (80%) with the rhamnolipid content\r\nof 354 mg/L after 144 hrs of incubation period.','Reeba Panesar, P.S. Panesar, D. Hasija, M.B. Bera and Harish Kumar (2009). Fermentative potential of Pseudomonas aeruginosa strain for\r\nbiosurfactant production. Biological Forum – An International Journal 1(2): 102-105. '),(4681,'130','Collection of damselflies and dragonflies (Odonata : Insecta) in\r\nNational Pusa collection, division of entomology, Indian Agricultural\r\nResearch Institute, New Delhi, India','Gaurav Sharma, V.V. Ramamurthy and Rajesh Kumar','26_Gaurav.pdf','',1,'-','-','-','INTRODUCTION\r\nThe Division of Entomology was established in 1905 as\r\none of the five major Divisions of the Imperial Agricultural\r\nResearch Institute located at Pusa, Bihar, it moved to New\r\nDelhi in 1936. Faunistic surveys led to the establishment of\r\nthe National Pusa Collection (NPC), one of the largest\r\ncollections of its kind in the world. This collection houses\r\nmore than half a million specimens of which 0.1 million\r\ncomprising about 17,500 species are authentically identified.\r\nIn that, 273 species of Zygoptera/damselflies (125 species:\r\n10 families), Anisozygoptera (1 species: 1 family) and\r\nAnisoptera/dragonflies (147 species: 5 families) belongs to\r\n16 families of order Odonata were studied during 2006-07.\r\nAll the insects collection and specimens are well preserved\r\nand maintained in the National Pusa Collection. This vast\r\ncollection of odonates species in one place, will provide\r\ngrand opportunity and help to professional odonatologists/\r\nresearchers in their studies/reference.\r\nApproximately 6,000 species and subspecies belonging\r\nto 630 genera in 28 families are known from all over the\r\nworld (Tsuda, 1991), out of which 499 species and subspecies\r\nof Odonata under 139 genera in 17 families, are represented\r\nin India (Prasad and Varshney, 1995). They are among the\r\ndominant invertebrate predators in any ecosystem. Being\r\npredators both at larval and adult stages, they play a\r\nsignificant role in the food chain of forest ecosystem. In\r\naddition, their value as indicators of quality of the biotope\r\nis being increasingly recognized.\r\nRESULTS\r\n273 species of Zygoptera/damselflies (125 species: 10\r\nfamilies), Anisozygoptera (1 species: 1 family) and\r\nAnisoptera/dragonflies (147 species: 5 families) belongs to\r\n16 families of order Odonata were studied and arranged\r\nsystematically family wise in National Pusa Collection,\r\nDivision of Entomology, Indian Agricultural Research\r\nInstitute, New Delhi are as :\r\nORDER-ODONATA\r\n(A) SUBORDER- ZYGOPTERA\r\n(1) Family-Chlorolestidae\r\n1. Megalestes major Selys\r\n(2) Family-Lestidae\r\n2. Lestes praemorsa praemorsa Selys\r\n3. Lestes dorothea Fraser\r\n4. Lestes elata Hagen\r\n5. Lestes viridula Rambur\r\n6. Lestes nodalis Selys\r\n7. Lestes umbrina Selys\r\n8. Lestes nigriceps Fraser\r\n9. Ceylonolestes pulcherrima (Fraser)\r\n10. Indolestes indica Fraser\r\n11. Sympycna peadisca annulata Selys\r\n(3) Family-Platysticidae\r\n12. Protosticta gravelyi Laidlaw\r\n13. Protosticta sanguinostigma Fraser\r\n14. Protosticta mortoni Fraser\r\n15. Protosticta hearseyi Fraser\r\n16. Platysticta deccanensis Laidlaw\r\n17. Drepanosticta carmichaeli Laidlaw\r\n(4) Family-Platycnemididae\r\n18. Coeliccia bimaculata Laidlaw\r\n19. Coeliccia renifera (Selys)\r\n20. Coeliccia didyma (Selys)\r\n21. Coeliccia loogali Laidlaw\r\n22. Calicnemis eximis Selys\r\n23. Calicnemis pulverulans Selys\r\n24. Calicnemis miniata Selys\r\n25. Calicnemis miles Laidlaw\r\n26. Copera marginipes Rambur\r\n27. Copera vittata Selys\r\nCollection of damselflies and dragonflies (Odonata : Insecta) in\r\nNational Pusa collection, division of entomology, Indian Agricultural\r\nResearch Institute, New Delhi, India\r\nGaurav Sharma, V.V. Ramamurthy* and Rajesh Kumar*\r\nDesert Regional Centre, ZSI (Ministry of Environment and Forests), Post-Jhalamand, Jodhpur (RJ) INDIA.\r\n*National Pusa Collection, Division of Entomology, IARI, Pusa campus, New Delhi INDIA.\r\nBBiioollooggiiccaal lF Foorurmum —– AAnn IInnteternrnaatitoinoanla Jl oJuorunranl,a1l,(21)(:1 1):061-210-19(720(20090) 9) ISSN : 0975-1130\r\nSharma, Ramamurthy and Kumar 107\r\n(5) Family-Protoneuridae\r\n28. Caconeura verticalis verticalis Selys\r\n29. Caconeura verticalis annandalei Fraser\r\n30. Caconeura botti Fraser\r\n31. Caconeura theebawi Fraser\r\n32. Caconeura sita Kirby\r\n33. Caconeura autumnalis Fraser\r\n34. Disparoneura atkinsoni Selys\r\n35. Disparoneura tetrica Laidlaw\r\n36. Disparoneura nigerrima Laidlaw\r\n37. Chloroneura quadrimaculata (Rambur)\r\n38. Chloroneura apicalis Fraser\r\n39. Indoneura gomphoides (Rambur)\r\n40. Indoneura ramburi Fraser\r\n41. Melanoneura bilineata Fraser\r\n42. Esme cyaneovittata Fraser\r\n43. Phylloneura westermanni (Selys)\r\n(6) Family-Coenagrionidae\r\n44. Pseudagrion microcephalum (Rambur)\r\n45. Pseudagrion bengalense Laidlaw\r\n46. Pseudagrion malabaricum Fraser\r\n47. Pseudagrion decorum (Rambur)\r\n48. Pseudagrion hypermelas Selys\r\n49. Pseudagrion spencei Fraser\r\n50. Pseudagrion laidlawi Fraser\r\n51. Pseudagrion rubriceps Selys\r\n52. Pseudagrion williamsoni Fraser\r\n53. Pseudagrion indicum Fraser\r\n54. Pseudagrion pruinosum Burmeister\r\n55. Ceriagrion coromandelianum (Fabricius)\r\n56. Ceriagrion erubescens Selys\r\n57. Ceriagrion rubiae Laidlaw\r\n58. Ceriagrion olivaceum Laidlaw\r\n59. Ceriagrion cerinorubellum (Brauer)\r\n60. Aciagrion occidentale Laidlaw\r\n61. Aciagrion olympicum Laidlaw\r\n62. Aciagrion azureum Fraser\r\n63. Aciagrion hysopa Selys\r\n64. Aciagrion pallidum Selys\r\n65. Ischnura senegalensis (Rambur)\r\n66. Ischnura elegans (Vander Linden)\r\n67. Ischnura forcipata Morton\r\n68. Ischnura inarmata Calvert\r\n69. Ischnura delicata Hagen\r\n70. Ischnura rufostigma Selys\r\n71. Ischnura annandalei Laidlaw\r\n72. Rhodischnura nursei (Morton)\r\n73. Enallagma cyathigerum Charpentier\r\n74. Enallagma parvum Selys\r\n75. Agriocnemis pieris Laidlaw\r\n76. Agriocnemis clauseni Fraser\r\n77. Agriocnemis splendidissima Laidlaw\r\n78. Agriocnemis d’abreui Fraser\r\n79. Agriocnemis pygmaea Rambur\r\n80. Coenagrion dyeri Fraser\r\n81. Onychargia atrocyana Selys\r\n(7) Family-Chlorocyphidae\r\n82. Rhinocypha cuneata Selys\r\n83. Rhinocypha spuria Selys\r\n84. Rhinocypha quadrimaculata Selys\r\n85. Rhinocypha fenestrella Rambur\r\n86. Rhinocypha iridea Selys\r\n87. Rhinocypha ignipennis Selys\r\n88. Rhinocypha trimaculata Selys\r\n89. Rhinocypha unimaculata Selys\r\n90. Rhinocypha bifasciata Selys\r\n91. Rhinocypha trifasciata Selys\r\n92. Rhinocypha bifenestrata Fraser\r\n93. Rhinocypha immaculata Selys\r\n94. Rhinocypha whiteheadi Kirby\r\n95. Rhinocypha perforata limbata Selys\r\n96. Rhinocypha biforata delimbata Selys\r\n97. Rhinocypha biforata beesoni Fraser\r\n98. Rhinocypha bisignata Selys\r\n99. Calocypha laidlawi (Fraser)\r\n100. Libellago lineata indica Fraser\r\n101. Libellago lineata lineata (Burmeister)\r\n102. Libellago aurantiaca (Selys)\r\n(8) Family-Euphaeidae\r\n103. Bayadera indica Selys\r\n104. Bayadera hyalina Selys\r\n105. Anisopleura lestoides Selys\r\n106. Anisopleura comes Selys\r\n107. Dysphaea walli Fraser\r\n108. Dysphaea ethela Fraser\r\n109. Allophaea ochracea (Selys)\r\n110. Psendophaea splendens (Selys)\r\n111. Psendophaea masoni (Selys)\r\n112. Indophaea dispar (Rambur)\r\n113. Indophaea cardinalis Fraser\r\n114. Indophaea fraseri (Laidlaw)\r\n(9) Family-Amphipterygidae\r\n115. Philoganga montana (Selys)\r\n(10) Family-Calopterygidae\r\n116. Neurbasis chinensis chinensis (Linnaeus)\r\n117. Vestalis gracilis gracilis Rambur\r\n108 Sharma, Ramamurthy and Kumar\r\n118. Vestalis apicalis apicalis Selys\r\n119. Vestalis amoena Selys\r\n120. Vestalis smaragdina Selys\r\n121. Echo margarita margarita Selys\r\n122. Climacobasis modesta Laidlaw\r\n123. Matrona basilaris basilaris Selys\r\n124. Matrona basilaris nigripectus Selys\r\n125. Caliphaea confusa Selys\r\n(B) SUBORDER- ANISOZYGOPTERA\r\n(11) Family-Epiophlebidae\r\n126. Epiophlebia superstes Selys\r\n(C) SUBORDER- ANISOPTERA\r\n(12) Family-Gomphidae\r\n127. Davidius aberrans aberrans Selys\r\n128. Davidius davidi assamensis Laidlaw\r\n129. Anormogomphus kiritschenkoi Bartenef\r\n130. Anisogomphus occipitalis Selys\r\n131. Anisogomphus orites Laidlaw\r\n132. Gomphus personatus Selys\r\n133. Platygomphus dolobratus Selys\r\n134. Burmagomphus laidlawi Fraser\r\n135. Mesogomphus lineatus (Selys)\r\n136. Mesogomphus lindgreni Fraser\r\n137. Onychogomphus bistrigatus (Selys)\r\n138. Onychogomphus m-flavum Selys\r\n139. Onychogomphus grammicus (Rambur)\r\n140. Onychogomphus echinoccipitalis Fraser\r\n141. Lamelligomphus biforceps (Selys)\r\n142. Lamelligomphus nilgiriensis (Fraser)\r\n143. Lamelligomphus malabarensis Fraser\r\n144. Lamelligomphus acinaces (Laidlaw)\r\n145. Stylogomphus inglisi Fraser\r\n146. Megalogomphus hannyngtoni (Fraser)\r\n147. Ophiogomphus reductus Calvert\r\n148. Merogomphus longistigma (Fraser)\r\n149. Merogomphus martini (Fraser)\r\n150. Perissogomphus stevensi Laidlaw\r\n151. Heliogomphus promelas (Selys)\r\n152. Macrogomphus annulatus (Selys)\r\n153. Macrogomphus montanus Selys\r\n154. Microgomphus torquatus (Selys)\r\n155. Microgomphus verticalis (Selys)\r\n156. Microgomphus minusculus (Selys)\r\n157. Ictinogomphus rapax (Rambur)\r\n158. Ictinogomphus atrox (Selys)\r\n159. Gomphidia t-nigrum Selys\r\n160. Gomphidia abbotti Williamson\r\n161. Gomphidia fletcheri Fraser\r\n162. Gomphidia kodaguensis Fraser\r\n(13) Family-Cordulegasteridae\r\n163. Cordulegaster brevistigma brevistigma (Selys)\r\n164. Anotogaster nipalensis Selys\r\n(14) Family-Aeshnidae\r\n165. Austroaeschna intersedens Martin\r\n166. Cephalaeschna orbifrons Selys\r\n167. Cephalaeschna acutifrons (Martin)\r\n168. Gynacanthaeschna sikkima (Karsch)\r\n169. Petaliaeschna fletcheri Fraser\r\n170. Gynacantha hyalina Selys\r\n171. Gynacantha bayadera Selys\r\n172. Gynacantha millardi Fraser\r\n173. Gynacantha bainbriggei Fraser\r\n174. Gynacantha biharica Fraser\r\n175. Gynacantha albistyla Fraser\r\n176. Aeshna mixta (Latreille)\r\n177. Aeshna juncea (Linnaeus)\r\n178. Anax guttatus (Burmeister)\r\n179. Anax parthenope (Selys)\r\n180. Anax immaculifrons Rambur\r\n181. Hemianax ephippiger (Burmeister)\r\n182. Anaciaeschna jaspidea (Burmeister)\r\n183. Anaciaeschna martini (Selys)\r\n(15) Family-Cordulidae\r\n184. Macromia moorei Selys\r\n185. Macromia cingulata Rambur\r\n186. Macromia cupricincta Fraser\r\n187. Macromia flavocolorata Fraser\r\n188. Macromia ida Fraser\r\n189. Macromia irata Fraser\r\n190. Epophthalmia vittata vittata Burmeister\r\n191. Hemicordulia asiatica Selys\r\n192. Idionyx saffronata Fraser\r\n193. Idionyx galeata Fraser\r\n194. Idionyx burliyarensis (Fraser)\r\n195. Idionyx corona Fraser\r\n196. Idionyx imbricata Fraser\r\n197. Idionyx optata Selys\r\n198. Idionyx stevensi Fraser\r\n199. Idionyx nadganiensis Fraser\r\n(16) Family-Libellulidae\r\n200. Palaeothemis tillyardi Fraser\r\n201. Tetrathemis platyptera Selys\r\n202. Tetrathemis yerburyi Kirby\r\n203. Amphithemis curvistyla Selys\r\n204. Amphithemis vacillans Selys\r\n205. Hylaeothemis fruhstorferi (Karsch)\r\nSharma, Ramamurthy and Kumar 109\r\n206. Lyriothemis acigastra (Selys)\r\n207. Lyriothemis bivittata (Rambur)\r\n208. Agrionoptera insignis insignis (Rambur)\r\n209. Lathrecista asiatica asiatica (Fabricius)\r\n210. Cratilla lineata (Brauer)\r\n211. Potamarcha obscura (Rambur)\r\n212. Orthetrum brunneum brunneum (Fonscolombe)\r\n213. Orthetrum taeniolatum (Schneider)\r\n214. Orthetrum chrysostigma luzonicum (Brauer)\r\n215. Orthetrum sabina (Drury)\r\n216. Orthetrum japonicum internum Maclachlan\r\n217. Orthetrum triangulare triangulare (Selys)\r\n218. Orthetrum glaucum (Brauer)\r\n219. Orthetrum chrysis (Selys)\r\n220. Orthetrum pruiunosum neglectum (Rambur)\r\n221. Libellula quadrimaculata (Linnaeus)\r\n222. Palpopleura sexmaculata sexmaculata (Fabricius)\r\n223. Nannophya pygmea Rambur\r\n224. Brachydiplax sobrina (Rambur)\r\n225. Brachydiplax farinose Kruger\r\n226. Brachydiplax chalybea Brauer\r\n227. Acisoma panorpoides panorpoides Rambur\r\n228. Diplacodes lefebvrei (Rambur)\r\n229. Diplacodes nebulosa (Fabricius)\r\n230. Diplacodes trivialis (Rambur)\r\n231. Indothemis caesia (Rambur)\r\n232. Indothemis limbata limbata (Selys)\r\n233. Crocothemis servilia servilia (Drury)\r\n234. Crocothemis servilia erythraea (Brulle)\r\n235. Bradinopyga geminata (Rambur)\r\n236. Neurothemis fulvia (Drury)\r\n237. Neurothemis fluctuans (Fabricius)\r\n238. Neurothemis intermedia intermedia (Rambur)\r\n239. Neurothemis tullia tullia (Drury)\r\n240. Neurothemis tullia feralis (Burmeister)\r\n241. Brachythemis contaminata (Fabricius)\r\n242. Rhodothemis rufa (Rambur)\r\n243. Sympetrum commixtum (Selys)\r\n244. Sympetrum hypomelas (Selys)\r\n245. Sympetrum orientale (Selys)\r\n246. Sympetrum meridionale (Selys)\r\n247. Sympetrum fonscolombei (Selys)\r\n248. Sympetrum haematoneura Fraser\r\n249. Sympetrum decoloratum (Selys)\r\n250. Trithemis aurora (Burmeister)\r\n251. Trithemis kirbyi kirbyi Selys\r\n252. Trithemis festiva (Rambur)\r\n253. Trithemis pallidinervis (Kirby)\r\n254. Zygonyx iris iris Selys\r\n255. Onychothemis testacea ceylanica (Ris)\r\n256. Zyxomma petiolatum Rambur\r\n257. Tholymis tillarga (Fabricius)\r\n258. Pantala flavescens (Fabricius)\r\n259. Camacinia gigantea (Brauer)\r\n260. Rhyothemis phyllis phyllis (Sulzer)\r\n261. Rhyothemis variegata variegata (Linnaeus)\r\n262. Rhyothemis obsolescens Kirby\r\n263. Rhyothemis plutonia Selys\r\n264. Rhyothemis triangularis Kirby\r\n265. Hydrobasileus croceus (Brauer)\r\n266. Tramea basilaris burmeisteri (Kirby)\r\n267. Tramea virginia (De Geer)\r\n268. Tramea limbata (Desjardins)\r\n269. Pseudotramea prateri Fraser\r\n270. Urothemis signata signata (Rambur)\r\n271. Aethriamanta brevipennis brevipennis (Rambur)\r\n272. Macrodiplax cora (Brauer)\r\n273. Selysiothemis nigra (Vander Linden)','Gaurav Sharma, V.V. Ramamurthy and Rajesh Kumar (2009). Collection of damselflies and dragonflies (Odonata : Insecta) in National Pusa collection, division of entomology, Indian Agricultural Research Institute, New Delhi, India. Biological Forum – An International Journal 1(2); 106-109. '),(4682,'125','Trend Analysis of Area, Production and Productivity of Minor Millets in India','Sathish Kumar M.*, Y.A. Lad and Ashish B. Mahera','3 Trend Analysis of Area, Production and Productivity of Minor Millets in India Sathish Kumar M.pdf','',1,'India is one of the largest producers of minor millets, and cultivation of these millets has been decreasing past few years. Minor millets play a vital role in rain-fed regions of India due to their characteristic of drought tolerance. It can be cultivated in adverse soil and climatic conditions. Consumption of minor millets is high in the northeastern part of India due to the presence of high nutrients. Other than north eastern region, the consumption of millets is less due to awareness about millets among peoples. Eventually the nutritional deficiency among children’s high in India. The secondary data of the area, production, and productivity of minor millets between the periods 1990-91 to 2019-20 has been collected from Indiastat.com. By using descriptive statistics and linear growth rates (Compound Annual Growth Rate) data were analyzed. The study revealed that the area and production of minor millets have been decreasing due to the cultivation of cereals, pulses, and commercial cash crops. The productivity of minor millets is drastically increasing due to the availability of high-yielding varieties and new cultivation technology adoption. The study will help to increase the consumption rate of minor millets and avoid the nutritional deficiency disease.','Minor millets, Area, production and productivity, Compound Annual Growth Rate, trend analysis','Cultivation of minor millets has been decreasing over the decade due to increasing the cultivation of cereal crops in India. Consumption of minor millets is more in eastern parts of India, especially Manipur, Meghalaya, and Nagaland. Minor millets contain more nutritional values than cereal crops. An absence of gluten is beneficial to diabetic patients, people having cancer, oxidative stress, obesity, celiac disease, and gastrointestinal disorders. Totally 30 years of data on the area, production, and productivity of minor millets has been collected for this study between 1990-91 to 2019-20. Even though decreasing the cultivation area and production, the productivity of minor millets has been increasing. The overall time series data of minor millets showed that the cultivation area has been reducing 5.13 percent per annum due to expanding the cultivation area of cereals, pulses, and cash crops. The production of minor millets has decreased 3.30 percent per annum due to shifting the cultivation area for other crops. The productivity of minor millets has been increasing by 1.92 percent per annum due to the availability of high-yielding varieties, pest, and disease resistant varieties, and improved cultivation practices. Analyzing the growth rate trends in the agricultural area, production and productivity across space and time have remained issues of significant concern for researchers and policymakers. It has been argued that analysis of the growth rate trends helps us identify the changing pattern of crops and land use patterns under different crops and the rate of change in area production and productivity of a crop. Further help in designing the appropriate agricultural policy for a region or state. The growth rates in the area, display, and productivity of minor millets crop showed exciting results. The growth rate in minor millets was found noticeably negative all over India. A similar picture of the growth rate in the production of minor millets was seen almost all over India. On the contrary, the growth rate of minor millets\' productivity was found positive all over India. ','INTRODUCTION\r\nIndia is the largest producer of rice, wheat, and other cereals. India\'s cereals production stood at a record 297.5 million tons in 2019-2020. Production and productivity of rice, wheat, maize other dominant crops have been increasing due to advanced technology, which replaced the production and productivity of other important crops such as minor millets. There are two types of millets cultivated in India: major and minor. The major millets include sorghum, bajra, maize, and minor millets include finger millet, foxtail millet, banyard millet, kodo millet. In India, farmers grow major millets in larger quantities than minor millets, but minor millets contain more nutritional values. The peoples living in the northeastern part of India include Manipur, Meghalaya, and Nagaland, using millets as their staple food. \r\nMillets have easy adoption and can grow successfully in diverse soil and climatic conditions. The growing season of millets in India is between June to November, and the suitable soil type for cultivation is well-drained loamy soil. It requires a warm temperature of 20-35(°C) degree Celsius for germination and is susceptible to frost. Millets are rain-fed crops, and they can be grown with less rainfall. The average rainfall requirement is 450 mm for major millets and 350 mm for minor millets.\r\nThe leading producer of millets in India includes Maharashtra, Rajasthan, and Karnataka (Agarwal et al., 2018). The high consumption of millets is in rural areas of Assam (18.82 kg/hsh/m) and Bihar (18.69 kg/hsh/m). The cultivation area of minor millets was high in Madhya Pradesh (84,000 hectares) followed by Chhattisgarh (63,370 hectares) and Uttarakhand (53,000 hectares). The most increased production was recorded in Madhya Pradesh (74,000 tons) followed by Uttarakhand (70,970 tons) and Tamil Nadu (37,340 tons). The highest productivity was recorded in Pondicherry (2274 kilograms/hectare) followed by Telangana (1711 kilograms/hectare) and Tamil Nadu (1444 kilograms/hectare) (Indiastat.2018-19).\r\nThe minor millets can be used as food for human beings and fodder for animals because they contain more energy and nutrition than major millets. Minor millets are a good source of protein, fiber, essential fats, and minerals like calcium, zinc, magnesium, phosphorus, and potassium. Minor millets do not contain gluten which is beneficial to diabetic patients, people having cancer, oxidative stress, obesity, celiac disease, and gastrointestinal disorders. \r\nIn recent years, many researchers have been using compound annual growth rate to predict area, production and productivity of agricultural crops. Surendar and Satinder (2014) predicted area, production and productivity of sugarcane in Haryana. They found that the area\'s growth rate was declined in all states of Haryana, and the growth rate of production was positive in only two districts, Bhiwani and Karnal. The productivity growth was increasing in all sections of Haryana except Gurgoan, Rewari, and Sirsa. Shabana and Madhulika (2018) investigated growth and instability analysis in Indian agriculture. They revealed that rice and maize\'s area has increased, the production of pulse and wheat has increased, and the productivity of wheat and pulses has increased in the period. Nethravathi and Yeledhalli (2016) forecasted growth and instability in area, production and productivity of different agricultural crops in Bengaluru. Neethu et al. (2017) investigated growth and instability in area, production and productivity of Cassava in Kerala. Abid et al. (2014) forecasted area and production of Maize in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, Pakistan. Production and consumption of minor millets in India investigated by Balaji et al. (2017). Kumari et al. (2017) investigated forecasting models for predicting pod damage of pigeon pea in Varanasi region. Kumari et al. (2016) forecasted yield of pigeon pea in Varanasi region by using different statistical models. Kumari Prity and Sathish Kumar (2021) forecasted area, production and productivity of citrus in Gujarat by using different artificial neural network models. Sathish Kumar M and Kumari Prity (2021) forecasted area, production and productivity of sapota in Gujarat. Gayathri (2018) investigated trend analysis of area, production and yield of ground nut in India. Prajneshu and Chandran (2005) computed compound growth rate of different agriculture crops in India. Saikia and Gosh (2021) found growth rate of area and production of silk in different areas of Assam. Kumari et al., (2018) investigated trend analysis of area, production and productivity of Jute crop in India. Unjia et al. (2021) investigated trend analysis of area, production and productivity of maize in India. In another study, Nida and Rahman (2020) applied compound annual growth rate to find out growth rate of area, production and productivity of Sugarcane crop in India. \r\nWith respect to above literature the main purpose of the study was to evaluate the growth rate of area, production and productivity of minor millets in India by using compound annual growth rate.\r\nEarlier studies mostly covered major agricultural and horticultural crops. Minor millets have more nutritional values than major crops. Even our Indian government announced 2022-23 as International Year of Millets. This study has wide scope to find out growth rate in area, production and productivity of millets India which suggest some measure to increase the cultivation of area of millets. This study also spread the importance and nutritional benefits of millets among consumers. \r\nMATERIALS AND METHODS\r\nThe secondary data of the area, production, and productivity of minor millets from 1990 to 2008 were collected for this study. The primary sources of data were government reports and the India stat website. The widely used methodology Compound Annual Growth Rate was selected for this study.\r\nThe exponential compound annual growth rate is estimated using linear functions on time series data on minor millets\' area, production, and productivity. \r\nThe semi-log exponential functional form was used to analyze the trend in growth rate. It is one of the appropriate applicable forms to estimate the growth rate. The following semi-log functional form was used to estimate the growth rate.\r\nlogYt = a + bt (1)\r\nThis equation (1) can be elaborated in detail as: \r\nYt = Yo (1+r) t (i)\r\nTaking log on both sides, \r\nWe get Log Yt = Log Yo + t Log (1+r) (ii)\r\nEquation (ii) can be rewritten as \r\nY = a + bt (iii)\r\nWhere \r\nY = Log Yt\r\n a = Log Yo\r\n b = Log (1+r), \r\nIn equation (iii) \r\nYt = area/production/ productivity, as the case may be, of minor millets as discussed above \r\nA = constant \r\nt = Time variable in year (1, 2...n)\r\nb = Regression Coefficient that shows the rate of change or growth rates in a series \r\nThe annual compound growth rate (s) can be worked out by using: \r\nAntilog (b) = Antilog (log (1+r)). \r\nAntilog (b) = 1+r \r\nand \r\nr = Antilog b-1 \r\nIt gives the percentage growth rate in the area, production, and productivity of minor millets multiplied by 100 (Surendar and Satinder 2014).\r\nCompound Annual Growth Rate (CAGR) (%) = r = (Antilog B-1) ×100.\r\nRESULTS AND DISCUSSION\r\n \r\nThe secondary data of minor millets from 1990-91 to 2019-20 were used to meet the objectives of the study. The purposes include trends analysis in India\'s area, production, and productivity of minor millets. The data of the area, production, and productivity of minor millets from 1990-91 to 2019-20 were mentioned in Table 1—compound Annual Growth Rate calculated separately for the area, production, and productivity of minor millets.\r\nThe trend of area, production, and productivity of minor millets in India has mentioned in Fig. 1. The overall area of cultivation of minor millets has decreased from 2447 thousand hectares to 458 thousand hectares during the period 1990-91 to 2019-20. The reduction of 81 percent cultivation area has occurred due to over-cultivation of major cereals, pulses, and cash crops. The cultivation area of minor millets has reduced 42 percent from 1990-91 to 1999-00. In the second decade from 2000-01 to 2009-10, the area has decreased another 42 percent. The third decade from 2010-11 to 2019-20 has reduced 43 percent. The result of CAGR showed that the overall cultivation areas of minor millets were highly significant, and production reduced by 5.13 per annum. It indicated that cultivation area was decreasing in trend and it will decline further in upcoming years.\r\nThe overall production of minor millets has decreased from 1190 thousand kilograms to 370 thousand tons from 1990-91 to 2019-20. The reduction of 68 percent production has occurred due to the reduction of cultivation area. The production of minor millets has reduced 48 percent during the period 1990-91 to 1999-00. In the second decade from 2000-01 to 2009-10, production has decreased another 35 percent. The third decade from 2010-11 to 2019-20 has reduced 16 percent. The result of CAGR showed that the overall productions of minor millets were highly significant and production reduced by 3.30 per annum. It indicated that production was decreasing in trend and it will thicken further in upcoming years. The overall productivity of minor millets has increased from 486 kilogram/hectare to 809 kilogram/hectare from 1990-91 to 2019-20. The increase of 66 percent productivity has occurred due availability of high-yielding varieties, nutrient-rich varieties, pest, and disease-resistant verities, and the adoption of new cultivation technology. \r\nThe productivity of minor millets has reduced 9 percent from 1990-91 to 1999-00. In the second decade from 2000-01 to 2009-10, production has increased 12 percent even though the reduction in the first decade. The third decade from 2010-11 to 2019-20 has increased 46 percent. The result of CAGR showed that the overall productivity of minor millets was highly significant, and productivity increased by 1.92 per annum. It indicated that productivity was increasing in trend even though area and production decreased. It will increase further in upcoming years.\r\nTable 2 shows the percentage changes in area production and productivity of minor millets in India from 1990-91 to 2019-20 and also calculated 10-year intervals. The coefficient of area and production has been calculated by considering the area as independent variable x and production as dependent variable y. It clearly showed that overall area and production positively related with each other. The broad period (1990-91 to 2019-20) 0.36-unit changes in the area led to 1-unit changes in production. The positive relationship between area and production has occurred 0.51 in the year 1990-91 to 1999-00, which means 0.51-unit changes in the area led to 1 unit of output. In the last decade, 2010-11 to 2019-20 drastic changes occurred, and 0.24 units in the area led to 1-unit changes in production. \r\n','Sathish Kumar M., Y.A. Lad and Ashish B. Mahera (2022). Trend Analysis of Area, Production and Productivity of Minor Millets in India. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 14(2): 14-18.'),(4683,'125','Screening of Mungbean Genotype/varieties for Resistance to Macrophomina phaseolina Infection using Seed and Soil Inoculation Method','Anupriya* and Nitin Chawla ','4 Screening of Mungbean Genotypevarieties for Resistance to Macrophomina phaseolina Infection using Seed and Soil Inoculation Method Anupriya.pdf','',1,'Mungbean (vigna radiata (L.) Wilczek), commonly recognized as green gram is the most significant and often advanced pulse crop. Pulses are an important component of the cropping system because they have wide flexibility to fit with the Leguminosae family. The pathogen also caused 17 to 90 per cent incidence in India and 30 to 40 per cent in Rajasthan, the dry root rot disease caused 25 to 48 per cent yield loss from seedling to the mature stage. The aim of this study is to draw a systematic and comprehensive picture of resistant reaction of many genotypes/varieties of mungbean against Macrophomina phaseolina, which can be used by farmers for more production. In the present study, fifty-two different mungbean genotype/varieties lines were screened against Macrophomina phaseolina at Rajasthan Agricultural Research Institute, Durgapura under artificially seed and soil inoculated conditions in the field. Present data revealed that out of fifty-two genotypes/varieties, only 2 genotypes/varieties were found completely resistant, 1 moderately resistant, 14 moderately susceptible, 29 susceptible and highly susceptible 6 against dry root rot disease caused by Macrophomina phaseolina. Two method of seed and soil inoculated conditions in the field.','Macrophomina phaseolina, disease incidence, inoculation','During the Kharif seasons of 2020 and 2021, 52 genotypes of mungbean were screened for dry root rot disease under artificial inoculation field settings at Rajasthan Agricultural Research Institute, Durgapura, Jaipur. The signs of M. phaseolina caused dry root rot were first seen in the field at the seedling stage, after 20 days of planting on particularly susceptible variety, and then spread to all other mungbean genotypes at the blooming and podding stages. During the kharif seasons of 2020 and 2021, none of the 52 genotypes evaluated were found to be fully free of M. phaseolina infection. Only two genotypes of Pusa 0871, SML 1839 are resistant and two variants RMG 1139 are moderatery resistant (MR). The 14 mungbean genotypes classified as moderately susceptible (MS) and the 29 genotypes classified as susceptible (S). During both kharif seasons, six individuals were identified as highly sensitive (HS) to M. phaseolina infection in mungbean.','INTRODUCTION \r\nMungbean or green gram [vigna rediata (L.) wilczek] is the most important economically and widely cultivated pulse crop. Pulses are essential component to sustain the agriculture manufacture as the pulse crops possess wide adaptability to fit into various cropping systems, belongs to family Leguminosae (Wilczek, 1954), it improve the soil fertility and physical health of soil while making soil more porus due to tap root system. Mungbean was originated either from India (De Candolle, 1886) or the Indo-Burmese region (Vivalov, 1951). \r\nMungbean is an excellent source of high quality protein. It is consumed in different ways such as dal, halwa, snacks and so many others preparations. Ascorbic acid (vitamin-C) is synthesized in sprouted seeds of mungbean. It has the capacity to fix atmospheric nitrogen through symbiotic nitrogen fixation. It is also used as green manure crop. The seed are highly nutritious as it contains about 23.86% protein, 62.6% carbohydrates, 1.15% fat, 5.27% crude fibre, 3.32% ash besides rich in lysine (436 mg/g), Ca, Fe and K. It is also a good source of vitamins mainly thiamine and niacin. Pulses are the main source of protein particularly for vegetarians and contribute about 14 percent of the total protein of an Indian average diet. Production of pulses in the country is far below the requirement to meet even the minimum level of per capita consumption. The per capita availability of pulses is dwindling fast from 74.9 gms in 1959 to 33 gms in 1998 as against the minimum requirement of 70 gms per day/capita prescribed by ICMR, which is causing malnutrition among the growing people. \r\nThe Mungbean is short duration, fast-growing, warm-season legume crop and erect, sub erect and deep rooted crop. It quickly reached at maturity under tropical and subtropical conditions with optimum temperatures about 28°-30°C and which always remain above 15°C. It does not require large amounts of water (600-1000 mm rainfall/year), tolerant to drought and sensitive to water logging. High moisture at maturity tends to spoil the seeds that may be sprouted before harvested. Mungbean grows wide range of soils but prefers well-drained loam or sandy loams, with a pH ranging from 5 to 8. It is somewhat tolerant to saline soils.\r\nIndia is the largest producer with more than 50% of world production with a production of 2.34 Mt (Anonymous, 2019-20). Major mungbean growing states in India are Rajasthan, Maharashtra, Madhya Pradesh, Orissa, Andhra Pradesh, Tamilnadu, and Uttar Pradesh. This crop is grown mainly as rainfed but sometimes cultivated under irrigated conditions especially in Sriganganagar district and to some extent in other districts also. Main limiting factor in profitable cultivation of this crop in Rajasthan is the attack of several diseases caused by fungi, bacteria and viruses which take heavy toll of the crop at all the stages of growth right from sowing to harvest and also during storage. The incidence of disease varied from 17-90 per cent in India and 30-40 per cent in Rajasthan, Jhamaria and Sharma (2002). \r\nDry root rot also called as charcoal rot is caused by Macrophomina phaseolina (Tassi.) Goild reported as an emerging disease of mungbean and yield losses ranged from 25 to 48% Bashir and malik, (1988); Iqbal and Mukhtar, (2014) by reducing plant population in the field both at seedling as well as reproductive mature stage (Khan et al., 2016). It produces symptoms like seeding rot, collar rot, leaf blight and pod rot in mungbean. The pathogen attacks on all parts of plant i.e. root, stem, branches, petiols, leaves, pods and seeds. Infection of M. phaseolina on seeds with only 2.2 to 15.7% causes 10.8% losses in grain yield and 12.3% in protein content of seed in mungbean (Kaushik et al., 1987).\r\nMATERIALS AND METHOD\r\nNow a days the entire community of agriculture is focusing on the use of high-yielding resistant cultivars is the most viable, environmentally safe, economical sound and less expensive technique for the management of the disease and most remunerative to farmers. Therefore, the identification of the resistance source is a basic need in breeding for disease resistance. Hence, the present investigation is therefore proposed to find out the resistant sources against dry root rot of mungbean. The fifty-two different mungbean genotype/varieties lines were screened against Macrophomina phaseolina at Rajasthan Agricultural Research Institute, Durgapura under artificially seed and soil inoculated conditions in the field. The infestation of soil was done by adding M. phaseolina multiplied on sand sorghum medium as described under the pathogenicity test. The seeds of each genotype/variety line received from Indian Institute Pulse Research, Kanpur were surface sterilized and sown in two rows during Kharif 2020-21 and 2021-2022. The plants of each germplasm/variety affected from root rot were counted and the per cent disease incidence was calculated by the following formula (Horsfall and Cowling, 1978) and the incidence was scored on a 1-9 rating scale (Nene et al., 1981).\r\nThese surface sterilized pieces were transferred on potato dextrose agar (PDA) medium in Petri dishes and kept in BOD incubator for 7 days at 28±2°C for growth of the pathogen. The growth of the fungus was conspicuous after 24 hr of incubation. The pure colonies which developed from the bits were transferred to poured plates and incubated in biological oxygen demand (BOD) incubator for ten days. The obtained culture was maintained on PDA slants for Department of Plant Pathology, Durgapura. Fungus-infected sand sorghum seed was mixed in the soil of each plots. Thus, the pathogenicity of this isolate was confirmed by soil inoculation and seed inoculation method.\r\nA. Seed inoculation\r\nFifty apparently healthy surface sterilize seeds (variety: RMG-62) were rolled on 7 days old culture of M. phaseolina thriving on PDA in Petri plates. Inoculated seeds were sown in field containing sterilized soil. The uninoculated surface sterilized and apparently healthy seeds were served as a check. Observation on seed germination was recorded after one week of sowing and seedling mortality was recorded after 15 days of germination.\r\nB. Soil inoculation\r\nInoculated with pathogen M. phaseolina multiplied on sorghum grains as described earlier, using modified method of Kataria and Grover (1976) in a proportion of 1:10 by thoroughly mixing it in the upper 4-5 cm layer of soil and allowed to stabilized for one week. A check was also maintained without inoculum. After a week of colonization of soil seeds (variety: RMG-62) were sown in these field. Initial seedling emergence was recorded. Seedling infection was recorded after 15 days of germination. \r\nObservations were recorded at the initiation of the disease and at weekly intervals starting from germination to harvesting. The final observations on disease incidence were considered to categorize (Table 1) the varieties/ genotypes into different reactions.\r\nThe per cent disease incidence was calculated by using the following formula:\r\n \r\n \r\nRESULT AND DISCUSSION\r\nTotal fifty-two genotypes of mungbean were screened under artificial inoculation field conditions at Rajasthan Agricultural Research Institute, Durgapura, Jaipur against dry root rot disease during the Kharif seasons of \r\n2020 and 2021. The observations on disease incidence on various genotypes/ varieties were recorded and were categorized as per their reaction (Table 2). The rating scale 1-9 was used for recording the observation on root.\r\nObservations revealed Kharif-pooled presented in (Table 3) that the among fifty two genotypes/varieties, only two varieties i.e. Pusa 0871 and SML 1839 found completely resistant against dry root rot disease. Among different genotypes/svarieties, 1 were found moderately resistant RMG 1139 whereas 14 were moderately susceptible BCM 18-2, MH 1703, MH 1772, MH 2-15, ML 2482, OBGG 109, PM 1603, PM 4, PM 6, Pusa 1371, Pusa 2071, RVSM 18-1, SKNM 1705 and VBN-4. Twenty nine genotypes/ BCM 18-1, COGG 16-10, IGM 06-18-3, IIPM 20-1, IIPM 20-2, IPM 2-14-9 (Varsha), IPM 2-3, IPM 312-394-1, Kopergaon, LGG 450, LGG 460, LGG 600, MH 1468, ML 2459, ML 818, MLS, OBGG 104, PM 1609, Pusa 0672, Pusa 2072, Pusa BM -5, Pusa BM-6, SML 2015, VGG 15-013, VGG 17-049, MGG 453, MI 181-1, PKV AKM4 and MI 750-1 were found susceptible whereas, highly DGGV 91, IPM 1604-1, IPM 2-14, IPM 604-1-2, KM 2419 and RMG-62.\r\nHowever, genotypes BCM 18-2, MH 1703, MH 1772, MH 2-15, ML 2482, OBGG 109, PM 1603, PM 4, PM 6, Pusa 1371, Pusa 2071, RVSM 18-1, SKNM 1705 and VBN-4 were moderately susceptible (MS) in the kharif seasons of 2020 and 2021, but were considered under susceptible (S) on the basis of the average of both kharif seasons. Under artificial inoculation condition, the same classified pattern was applied in mungbean genotypes. Mehta, (2004); Khan and Shuaib (2007) found similar results when they evaluated various mungbean varieties/genotypes against M. phaseolina using artificial inoculations.\r\nSimilarly finding also reported by Choudhary et al. (2011); Iqbal et al. (2003) they screened twenty five mungbean genotypes to identify source of resistant to dry root rot caused by M. phaseolina. Three genotypes namely MSJ-118, KM- 4-44 and KM-4-59 were found to be resistant. These resistant genotypes had significantly greater root and shoot length, root and shoot weight than those of the susceptible check RMG-62.\r\nSimilar results also found by Haseeb et al. (2013); Iqbal et al. (2010) they screened 27 different mungbean varieties/line against M. phaseolina and reported that no varieties/ line was found immune to charcoal rot disease. Azri 2006, NM 2006 and AUM were found resistant in first disease screening nursery and second \r\ndisease 2006 screening nursery. The varieties/lines 8010, AUM 38 and 7009 were moderately susceptible to susceptible and susceptible in all the disease screening nurseries. The rest of the varieties showed varied results in all the nurseries.\r\n','Anupriya and Nitin Chawla (2022). Screening of Mungbean Genotype/varieties for Resistance to Macrophomina phaseolina Infection using Seed and Soil Inoculation Method. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 14(2): 19-23.'),(4684,'125','Heterotic Orientation of Maize (Zea mays L.) germplasm and Single Cross Hybrids Performance in the North-western Himalaya','Sawan Kumar*, Gaurav Sharma, Uttam Chandel, Ravinder Kumar and Satish Kumar Guleria','5 Heterotic Orientation of Maize _Zea mays L._ germplasm and Single Cross Hybrids Performance in the North-western Himalaya Sawan Kumar.pdf','',1,'Assigning germplasm into different heterotic groups is fundamental for exploitation of heterosis for hybrid development. The objective of this study was to categorize the 30 medium maturing inbred lines into different heterotic groups on the basis of combining ability, and selection of best inbred lines and hybrid combinations on the basis of agronomic traits under studied. Thirty inbred lines were crossed with two diverse testers viz., BAJIM 08-26 and BAJIM 08-27 to develop sixty crosses. These crosses along with parents were evaluated in randomized block design along with two commercial checks. Three hybrids viz., L28 × T2, L15 × T2 and L23 × T1 were identified as the best on the basis of per se performance, earliness and superiority over the checks. The maize germplasm was categorized in two different heterotic groups on the basis of GCA and SCA effects for grain yield. Fifteen lines were included in group A and fifteen in group B. However, eight lines which showed positive GCA effects and positive SCA effects with BAJIM 08-27 and negative SCA effects with BAJIM 08-26 were considered more productive in the heterotic group A. Similarly, eight lines were considered more productive in heterotic group B. High yielding hybrids could be developed by involving these lines directly from two different groups. These heterotic groups could serve as sources for developing populations and pools for deriving the productive lines and synthetics. Based on per se performance and GCA effects for grain yield, five lines viz., CML-292, CML-269-1, HKI-1040-7, CML-141 and TNAU/CBE-83 were identified as the best inbred lines which could be involved in breeding program for developing hybrids and composites.','Heterotic grouping; general combining ability; Maize; specific combining ability; Zea mays','Germplasm within the same group are genetically similar whereas between the two groups are diverse. High yielding hybrids could be developed by involving these lines directly from two different groups. These heterotic groups could serve as sources for developing populations and pools for deriving the productive lines and synthetics. In the present investigation thirty maize inbred lines of medium maturity were crossed with two diverse testers. The maize inbred lines were grouped into different heterotic groups on the basis of SCA effects were analyzed for yield traits. Based on per se performance for different traits and GCA effect for grain yield, five lines viz., L15 (CML-292), L14 (CML-269-1), L23 (HKI-1040-7), L12 (CML-141) and L28 (TNAU/CBE-83) were identified as the best inbred lines which could be involved in breeding programme for developing hybrids and composites. Among the sixty crosses, three crosses viz., L28 × T2 (TNAU/CBE-83 × BAJIM-08-27), L15 × T2 (CML-292 × BAJIM-08-27) and L23 × T1 (HKI-1040-07 × BAJIM-08-26) were identified as the best hybrid combinations on the basis of per se performance and their mean values for yield were considerably more than that of best check Bio-9544 for which the mean yield was 114.35 q/ha and were found to be early maturing. These single cross hybrids can be used in further breeding programme for commercial exploitation of maize hybrids with the advantage of high yield and early maturity.','INTRODUCTION\r\nMaize is the primary staple food in many developing countries in the world. It is a versatile crop with wider genetic variability and able to grow successfully throughout the world covering tropical, subtropical and temperate agro-climatic conditions (Amiruzzaman et al., 2010). In North western Himalayan region, it is the most important crop of Kharif season. It occupies 290.0 thousands hectare with a production of 760.0 metric tonnes and productivity is high (25.70 q/ha) as compared to the national average of 22.46 q/ha in kharif season (Anonymous, 2019), yet there is considerable scope for increasing the productivity further with the use of quality seeds of recommended varieties/hybrids. The main target of maize breeding programme is to increase the yield using commercial exploitation of high yielding maize hybrids. The selection of parents and breeding strategies for the successful maize hybrid production will be facilitated by heterotic groupings of parental lines. Therefore, information on heterotic groupings of maize germplasm is essential for hybrid breeding program (Kumar et al., 2019, Chandel et al., 2019, Eisele et al., 2021). A Set of lines deriving from a common origin and displaying similar combining ability when crossed with lines from different origins is defined as a heterotic group. After development of inbred lines from known or unknown sources, breeders need to make thousands of crosses and evaluate grain yield in resulting F1 plants in replicated field experiments. Assigning lines to heterotic groups would avoid the development and evaluation of crosses that should be discarded, allowing maximum heterosis to be exploited by crossing inbred lines belonging to different heterotic groups (Mousa et al., 2021). Heterotic effects of the maize lines and their allocation into well-known heterotic groups is the secret for the success of a maize breeding programme, which would give utmost exploitation of heterosis. The classification of inbred lines into heterotic groups is therefore of very high importance in hybrid maize breeding. Melchinger and Gumber (1998) described a heterotic group “as a group of related or unrelated genotypes from the same or different populations, which display similar combining ability and heterotic response when crossed with genotypes from other genetically distinct germplasm groups”. \r\nTwo major methods of heterotic group classification are mainly used in breeding programme: In the traditional method, breeders assign the germplasm into the different heterotic groups based on the estimates of the combining ability patterns obtained using information from testcross trials (Fan et al., 2001; 2004). The second method utilizes molecular markers to compute genetic similarity or genetic distance to assign maize inbred lines to different heterotic groups (Barata and Carena 2006). The present investigation was aimed to characterize the maize germplasm into different heterotic groups and evaluation of single cross hybrids in the sub-temperate region of north western Himalayas.\r\nMATERIAL AND METHODS\r\nA. Experimental material\r\nThe experimental material comprised of 30 maize inbred lines crossed with two diverse male parents viz., BAJIM-08-26 (T1) and BAJIM-08-27 (T2) from two different pools during Kharif season in experimental field at CSK Himachal Pradesh Krishi Vishva Vidyalaya, Hill Agricultural Research & Extension Center, Bajaura, Kullu, (H.P.) India (Table 1). Sixty crosses along with parents and two standard checks viz., Bio-9544 and Palam Sankar Makka-2 were evaluated in randomized block design (RBD) with two replications during Kharif, 2016. Observations were recorded on ten randomly selected plants per treatment per replication for the traits viz., plant height (cm), cob placement (cm), cob length (cm), cob girth (cm), kernel rows per cob and kernels per row and were used for statistical analysis. However, days to 50 per cent tasseling, days to 50 per cent silking, days to 75 per cent brown husk, grain yield (q/ha), 1000 grain weight (g) and biological yield (q/ha) were recorded on plot basis.\r\nB. Statistical Analysis\r\nAnalysis of variance for mean data recorded was carried out as per suggested by Panse and Sukhatme (1985) to determine significant differences among genotypes. Combining ability analysis for grain yield was done according to Kempthorne (1957) and SAS statistical software was used for heterotic grouping of germplasm under study.\r\nRESULTS AND DISCUSSION\r\nA. Analysis of variance \r\nAnalysis of variance for yield and yield contributing traits has been presented in Table 2. Significant differences among the genotypes were observed for all the characters except days to 50% pollenshed. The results of ANOVA revealed that there was significant variability among the genotypes under study.\r\nB. Mean performances of parents and crosses\r\nSeven crosses were found to have a mean yield significantly higher than the best check Bio-9544 for grain yield (Table 3). The top yielder crosses were L28 × T2, L15 × T2, L23 × T1 and L10 × T1. However, none of the parents exhibited the higher mean grain yield than the best check (Table 4). The range of mean values in parents for grain yield varied from 49.09 q/ha (L15) to 20.81 q/ha (L8). For 1000 grain weight, none of the parents showed a mean value for 1000 grain weight greater than the best check Palam Sankar Makka-2 (340 \r\ng). Only one cross combination L14 × T2 recorded higher 1000 grain weight than the Palam Sankar Makka-2 and the lowest was recorded for L2 × T2. Among the parents four lines viz., L3, L13, L17 and L28 recorded a mean value higher than the best check Bio-9544 for shelling percentage. Twenty four crosses exhibited a mean value for shelling percentage greater than Bio-9544. The highest shelling percentage of 87.68 per cent was recorded for L15 × T2 and the lowest of 78.60 per cent for L24 × T1. \r\nThe mean value for rows per cob among the parents ranged from 9.8 (L25) to 16.6 (L22) and two lines L19, L22 exhibited a greater mean value than best check Bio-9544 (15.5). Thirteen crosses recorded a higher mean value for rows per cob than the Bio-9544. The highest value of 16.67 was observed for L4 × T2 and the lowest of 12.8 for L15 × T2 cross combination. For kernels per row, none of the parents exhibited the mean value for kernels per row higher than the best check Bio-9544 (40.50). Three crosses showed the value for kernels per row to be higher than Bio-9544. The maximum number of kernels per row 43.17 was recorded for L16 × T1 and the lowest of 28.34 for L23 × T2. The crosses that showed high number kernels per row were L16 × T1, L3 × T2 and L18 × T1. A range of 15.5 cm (L18) to 9.4 cm (L8) for cob length was observed among the parents. No parent had the average cob length more than the best check Palam Sankar Makka-2 (21.25 cm). Two crosses had a mean value for cob length higher than Palam Sankar Makka-2. The maximum cob length of 22.17 cm for the cross L25 × T1 and the lowest of 14.25 cm for cross L2 × T1 was observed. Some other crosses with high mean value for this character were L18 × T1 (21.34 cm) and L3 × T2 (21.26 cm). Six crosses showed the mean cob girth to be higher than the Palam Sankar Makka-2 (16.92 cm) some of these were L22 × T2 (17.92 cm) L19 × T2 (17.40 cm), L6 × T2 (17.25 cm) and L13 × T2 (17.25 cm). None of the parents showed higher value than best check Palam Sankar Makk-2. Out of sixty crosses only single cross L28 × T2 (329.78 q/ha) was observed to have a higher mean value for biological yield than the best check Bio-9544. The parents showed a range of 179.17 q/ha (L9) to 69.74 q/ha (L24) for this trait. Seventeen crosses recorded a higher mean value than Bio-9544 for this character. Among the crosses, L19 × T2 recorded the highest mean value of 0.62 whereas the lowest value of 0.30 was observed for the cross L27 × T2 for harvest index. No single parent had mean value of harvest index higher than that of the best check Bio-9544 (0.45).\r\nFor days to 50 per cent pollen shed, five lines viz., L17, L26, L28, L5, L1 recorded mean value to be less than the best check Palam Sankar Makka-2 (61 days). Twenty six crosses had mean days for 50 per cent pollen shed less than the best check; some of these crosses were L26 × T2 (56.5 days), L4 × T1 (57 days), L4 × T2 (57 days), L17 × T1 (57 days) and L27 × T1 (57.5 days). Five lines viz., L17, L26, L5, L28 and L1 showed mean days to 50 per cent silking less than the best check Palam Sankar Makka-2 (63 days). Twenty seven crosses had mean days to 50 per cent silking less than the best check Palam Sankar Makka-2. The mean days for this character ranged from 58.5 days (L17 × T1, L26 × T2) to 68.5 days (L2 × T2, L28 × T1). Among parents fifteen lines exhibited mean days to 75 per cent brown husk to be less than the best check Palam Sankar Makka-2 (98.5 days). The means days of parents for this trait ranged from 88.5 days (L17) to 96.5 days (L4). Thirty crosses exhibited the less number of mean days as that of the best check Palam Sankar Makka-2. The highest number of mean days of 106 days was observed in the cross L2 × T2 and lowest days of 92.5 days was for cross L17 × T1. The results obtained are in conformity with the findings of Suthamathi and Nallathambi (2015) for early maturity. All lines except L21 and both the testers T1 and T2 showed a mean plant height less than the best check Palam Sankar Makka-2 (169.17 cm). The mean plant height for parents ranged from 101.67 cm (L28) to 173.67 cm (L21). Twelve crosses exhibited mean plant height less than that of the best check Palam Sankar Makka-2. The least mean height among all the crosses was exhibited by the cross L7 × T2 (132.33 cm) and the highest mean height of 217.5 cm by cross L12 × T1. Twenty nine lines and both the testers T1 and T2 showed the mean height of cob placement to be less than the best check Palam Sankar Makka-2 (94.67 cm). Twenty nine crosses exhibited the mean height for cob placement less than that of the best check Palam Sankar Makka-2. It ranged from 55.67 cm (L7 × T2) to 125.69 cm (L3 × T1). Similar results were reported by Aminu et al. (2014); Talukder et al. (2016) with high negative GCA as desirable for plant height and cob placement.\r\nC. Heterotic grouping of germplasm\r\nAmong thirty inbred lines, eleven lines exhibited positive and significant GCA effects and twelve lines exhibited negative and significant GCA effects for grain yield, out of these L28 (25.14) had the highest GCA effect followed by L12 (21.46), L10 (14.10), L16 (14.14) and L23 (10.92). Line L28 was the best general combiner and L25 the poorest general combiner (Table 5). Thirteen crosses out of total of sixty crosses recorded significantly positive SCA effects. These were L15 × T2, L7 × T1, L2 × T1, L28 × T2, L19 × T2, L3 × T1, L5 × T2, L23 × T1, L25 × T1, L14 × T1, L11 × T2, L10 × T1 and L18 × T1. The SCA effects ranged from 31.11 (L15 × T2) to -31.11 (L15 × T1) (Table 6).\r\nThe maize inbred lines were grouped into different heterotic groups on the basis of SCA effects were analyzed for yield traits (Table 7). Germplasm lines showing positive SCA effects with T2 and negative with T1 were grouped into heterotic group A whereas the germplasm lines showing positive SCA effects with T1 and negative with T2 were assigned into group B. Fifteen lines viz., L1, L4, L5, L6, L9, L11, L13, L15, L17, L19, L21, L27, L28, L29 and L30 assigned to Group A whereas remaining fifteen lines namely; L2, L3, L7, L8, L10, L12, L14, L16, L18, L20, L22, L23, L24, L25 and L26 were assigned to Group B. However, the lines with positive GCA effects for yield are of practical importance to a breeder for developing high yielding hybrids. Keeping this aspect in view, the eight lines viz., L5, L6, L9, L11, L13, L15, L21 and L28 which showed a positive GCA effect and positive SCA effects with T2 and negative SCA effects with T1 are considered more productive in the heterotic group A whereas the eight lines viz., L3, L10, L12, L14, L16, L23, L24 and L26 which showed a positive GCA effect and positive SCA effects with T1 and negative SCA effects with T2 are more productive in heterotic group B (Table 7). Similar results with respect to the heterotic grouping of maize germplasm have been reported by several workers. Ejigu et al. (2017) assigned 16 lines and two testers in two heterotic groups. Elmyhun et al. (2020) also grouped the maize germplasm in heterotic groups on the basis of combining ability.','Sawan Kumar, Gaurav Sharma, Uttam Chandel, Ravinder Kumar and Satish Kumar Guleria (2022). Heterotic Orientation of Maize (Zea mays L.) germplasm and Single Cross Hybrids Performance in the North-western Himalaya. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 14(2): 24-30.'),(4685,'129','Checklist of insects associated with Jamun (Syzygium cuminii Skeels)\r\nfrom India','Rajesh Kumar, V.V. Ramamurthy and Gaurav Sharma','1 RAJESH.pdf','',1,'Jamun (Syzygium cuminii Skeels) is an economically important tree in India, which also has\r\nmedicinal properties. The survey of insects associated with Jamun in India was conducted and approximately 300\r\nspecimens belonging to five orders were collected, which comprises of 78 species mainly representing two orders\r\ni.e., Lepidoptera (34 species) and Hemiptera (26 species). The salient details of their locality, feeding behaviour\r\nand pest status have also been provided.','Syzygium cuminii, associated insects, India','Jamun (Syzygium cuminii Skeels) is an economically important tree in India, which also has\r\nmedicinal properties. The survey of insects associated with Jamun in India was conducted and approximately 300\r\nspecimens belonging to five orders were collected, which comprises of 78 species mainly representing two orders\r\ni.e., Lepidoptera (34 species) and Hemiptera (26 species). The salient details of their locality, feeding behaviour\r\nand pest status have also been provided.','INTRODUCTION\r\nJamun, Syzygium cumini L. (Myrtaceae) is a very\r\ncommon, large evergreen tree of Indian subcontinent. The\r\nsynonyms of S. cumini L. are : Eugenia cumini (L.) Druce,\r\nEugenia jambolana Lam., Myrtus cumini L., Syzygium\r\njambolanum DC. Common names are java plum, black plum,\r\njambul and Indian blackberry. Its distribution range starts\r\nfrom Myanmar and extends up to Afghanistan. It grows\r\nnaturally in tropical as well as in sub-tropical zones. It is\r\ngenerally cultivated in India. It tends to grow an umbrella\r\nlike crown having dense foliage, thus gives pleasant cool\r\nshade during summer. Jamun is used as a carminative,\r\nagainst diarrhea, stomachache, astringent and also utilized\r\nin enlargement of the spleen and as a diuretic. The leaves\r\nhave antibacterial properties and the bark is utilized against\r\ninflammations, while the seeds have antidiabetic properties.\r\nThere are lot of major and minor pests which infest leaves,\r\nflowers, fruits, seeds and barks, but the perusal of literature\r\nreveals that there is no consolidated account available on\r\nthe insects associated with jamun in India except a major\r\ncontribution was made by Butani (1979). In this paper, an\r\nattempt has been made to provide the current status, nature\r\nof damage, pest status, hosts, updated classification of\r\ninsects associated with jamun in India.\r\nMATERIALS AND METHODS\r\nInsects were collected in the field with aspirator,\r\nmanually and aerial sweep net and at night with the help of\r\nlight trap. The insects were killed by using tetrachloro ethane\r\nor ethyl acetate or benzene. These were stretched, pinned,\r\nlabeled, identified, preserved in the wooden collection boxes\r\nand deposited in the National Pusa Collection, Division of\r\nEntomology, Indian Agricultural Research Institute, New\r\nDelhi. The collected / reference specimens preserved in the\r\nNational Pusa Collection were also examined and\r\nincorporated in the checklist.\r\nRESULTS AND DISCUSSION\r\nSurvey-cum-collection study on insects associated with\r\njamun in India were undertaken covering thirteen states/union\r\nterritories namely Chandigarh, Delhi, Haryana, Himachal\r\nPradesh, Jammu and Kashmir, Karnataka, Kerala,\r\nMaharashtra, Punjab, Arunachal Pradesh, Tamil Nadu,\r\nUttarakhand and Uttar Pradesh. The insect’s records on\r\nJamun available in the National Pusa Collection, Division of\r\nEntomology, Indian Agricultural Research Institute, New\r\nDelhi have also been incorporated. Seventy eight insect\r\nspecies have been recorded representing order and their\r\nspecies i.e., Hemiptera (26 species), Coleoptera (8 species),\r\nDiptera (5 species), Lepidoptera (34 species), Thysanoptera\r\n(6 species). Among these, the Lepidoptera (34) shows the\r\nhighest number of species, the Diptera (5) shows that the\r\nleast number of species (Table 1).\r\nThe following sixteen species have been added from\r\nthe records in National Pusa Collection (Insects) i.e.,\r\nHemiptera-5 (Balocha maldanadoi kameswara Rao &\r\nRamakrishnan, Wiloatma bifurcate Webb, Balocha tricolor\r\nDistant, Balocha anufrievi, Rao & Ramakrishnan\r\n(Cicadellidae); Dictyophara pallida Walker (Fulgoridae));\r\nLepidoptera-6 (Hygroplasta spoliatella Walker\r\n(Lecithoceridae); Cania pulligonis Swinhoe (Limacodidae);\r\nPhlegetonia delatrix Guenée, Catephia mosara Swinhoe\r\n(Noctuidae); Bubonoxena ephippias Meyrick, Strepsicrates\r\nrhothia, Meyrick (Tortricidae); Diptera-4 (Bactrocera caudata\r\nFabricius, Bactrocera cucurbitae Coquillett (Tephritidae)\r\nBactrocera diversa (Coquillett), Bactrocera tau (Walker)\r\n(Tephritidae)), Coleoptera-1 (Scymnus scymnus gracilis\r\nMotschulsky (Coccinellidae)). Two species have recorded\r\nas new record from Indian Agricultural Research Institute,\r\nCampus, New Delhi viz., Bruchidius minutissimus\r\nMotschulsky (Coleoptera : Bruchidae) and Noctuides sp.\r\n(Lepidoptera : Pyralidae). Photographs of Carea subtilis\r\nWalker (Nolidae) (Figs. 1,2), Noctuides sp. (Figs. 3,4) and\r\nBruchidius minutissimus Motschulsky (Bruchidae) (Fig. 5).','Rajesh Kumar, V.V. Ramamurthy and Gaurav Sharma (2010). Checklist of insects associated with Jamun (Syzygium cuminii Skeels) from India. Biological Forum — An International Journal, 2(1): 1-5. '),(4686,'129','Effect of Aspergillus fumigatus infection on cellular and humoral\r\nimmune responses in red cotton stainer, Dysdercus similis\r\n(Heteroptera: Pyrrhocoridae)','Karuna Singh and S.C. Pathak*','3 karuna singh new.pdf','',1,'Aspergillus fumigatus Freseius caused aspergillosis in Dysdercus similis Freeman (Heteroptera:\r\nPyrrhocoridae), which elicited both cellular and humoral immune responses in the insect. Cellular immune\r\nresponse, involves phagocytosis and cellular encapsulation. Humoral encapsulation was noted in infected insects\r\nof both sexes. Fungal conidia and hyphae were seen covered with the typical yellowish brown hyaline material.\r\nInfection was not externally manifested.','Phagocytosis, Encapsulation, Haemocyte, Aspergillus fumigatus, Dysdercus similis Abbreviations : GRs\r\n(Granulocytes), PLs (Plasmatocytes), Cos (Coagulocytes)','Aspergillus fumigatus Freseius caused aspergillosis in Dysdercus similis Freeman (Heteroptera:\r\nPyrrhocoridae), which elicited both cellular and humoral immune responses in the insect. Cellular immune\r\nresponse, involves phagocytosis and cellular encapsulation. Humoral encapsulation was noted in infected insects\r\nof both sexes. Fungal conidia and hyphae were seen covered with the typical yellowish brown hyaline material.\r\nInfection was not externally manifested.','The defense of insects against infection in brought\r\nabout by haemocytes. This defense may be cellular or\r\nhumoral or both. Cellular defense comprises of phagocytosis,\r\ncellular encapsulation and nodule formation (Gupta 1985a;\r\nLackie 1988). However, the number of papers published with\r\nreference to the humoral aspects of defense in insects are\r\nfar less numerous as compared to those with reference to\r\nthe cellular aspects. Present paper covers both cellular and\r\nhumoral responses in the red cotton stainer Dysdercus similis\r\nFreeman (Heteroptera: Pyrrhocoridae) experimentally infected\r\nwith Aspergillus fumigatus.\r\nMATERIAL AND METHODS\r\n(a) Insect culture. Experimental insects were obtained\r\nfrom the culture maintained in the laboratory. The adults\r\nand nymphs of Dysdercus similis were collected from the\r\nhost Okra (Abelmoscus esculantus) and Gossypium plants\r\nin the months of February and March, from the experimental\r\nfields of Jawaharlal Nehru Agricultural University, Jabalpur\r\nand maintained at 30°C ±1°C and RH in the range of 70 to\r\n80 in the laboratory. The insects were reared in sterilized\r\ncontainers and were fed on cotton seeds soaked in water.\r\n(b) Isolation of Fungus. The isolate of Aspergillus\r\nfumigatus was obtained from the Medical Mycology\r\nlaboratory of the Department of Biosciences, Rani Durgavati\r\nUniversity, Jabalpur and sub cultured on Sabouraud’s\r\ndextrose agar slants (Dextrose 40 g, Peptone 10 g, Agar 20\r\ng in 1000ml of distilled water) for 48 hours at 28 ± 1°C.\r\nThe fungal suspension was prepared in 5 ml of sterilized\r\ndistilled water, homogenized and then filtered through\r\nsterilized muslin cloth to separate conidia from mycelia.\r\nSpore count was adjusted to 4.5 × 10– 6cfu/ml using\r\nhaemocytometer. Slide cultures of the isolates were also\r\nprepared (Fig. 1a and b).\r\nEffect of Aspergillus fumigatus infection on cellular and humoral\r\nimmune responses in red cotton stainer, Dysdercus similis\r\n(Heteroptera: Pyrrhocoridae)\r\nKaruna Singh and S.C. Pathak*\r\nDepartment of Zoology, Mahila Mahavidyalaya, Banaras Hindu University, Varanasi (UP) INDIA\r\nDepartment of Biosciences, Asterik Rani Durgavati University, Jabalpur (MP) INDIA\r\nABSTRACT : Aspergillus fumigatus Freseius caused aspergillosis in Dysdercus similis Freeman (Heteroptera:\r\nPyrrhocoridae), which elicited both cellular and humoral immune responses in the insect. Cellular immune\r\nresponse, involves phagocytosis and cellular encapsulation. Humoral encapsulation was noted in infected insects\r\nof both sexes. Fungal conidia and hyphae were seen covered with the typical yellowish brown hyaline material.\r\nInfection was not externally manifested.\r\nKeywords : Phagocytosis, Encapsulation, Haemocyte, Aspergillus fumigatus, Dysdercus similis Abbreviations : GRs\r\n(Granulocytes), PLs (Plasmatocytes), Cos (Coagulocytes)\r\n(c) Inoculation. A conidial suspension of A. fumigatus\r\n(conc. 4.5 × 10– 6 cfu/ml) is used for inoculation. 2.5μl of\r\nthis inoculums was injected into the haemocoel of the insect\r\nthrough arthrodial membrane in the 2nd/3rd or 3rd/4th\r\nabdominal sternae using 10μl Hamilton microsyringe. Three\r\nsuch inoculations were carried out for each sex. One insect\r\nof each sex was treated as control by injecting 2.5μl of\r\ndistilled water in place of conidial suspension. To see the\r\ntopical affect of fungus, the inoculum was applied topically\r\non the dorsal and ventral body surfaces of the insects of\r\nboth sexes by a paint brush.\r\n(d) Preparation and staining of blood film. Liquid fixative\r\nviz 5% formaldehyde was used to fix the haemolymph for\r\npreparing blood film. The blood film was air dried and\r\nsubjected to staining with Giemsa (Arnold and Hinks, 1979).\r\nRESULTS AND DISCUSSION\r\nAdults of Dysdercus similis with experimentally induced\r\naspergillosis showed gradual decrease in activity. Male died\r\ngenerally after 75 hours of inculation but female generally\r\nlived up to 92 to 99 hours following inoculation. Topical\r\napplication of fungal inoculum had no effect.\r\nPhagocytosis was noticed in the Giemsa stained blood\r\nfilms of infected insects. The fungal hyphae and spores of\r\nAspergillus fumigatus were seen engulfed by some\r\ngranulocytes (GRs) (normal cell size ranged from 14.5μm ×\r\n10.1μm to 29μm × 21.7μm) (Fig. 1c, d, e) and coagulocytes\r\n(COs) (Fig. 1f). It was also observed that GRs increased in\r\nsize (length 66.7μm and width 31.7 μm) (Fig. 1g) particularly\r\nin the females when phagocytosed fungal material.\r\nPlasmatocytes (PLs) also participated in the phagocytosis,\r\nalthough to a lesser extent. Cellular encapsulation was seen\r\nwith some GRs/COs coming together with the fungal material.\r\nThese cells lysate and produce dark colored core around\r\nwhich flattened PLs get arranged in multiple layers (Fig.1h).\r\nGradually more and more layers of such cells added.\r\nISSN : 0975-1130\r\nBiological Forum — An International Journal, 2(1): 9-11(2010)\r\n10 Singh and Pathak\r\nAlthough external manifestation of unusual melanization\r\nor pigmentation was not observed in the infected male and\r\nfemale of Dysdercus similis, the transparent, flocculent and\r\nhyaline material was observed encapsulating the fungal\r\nspores (Fig.1i). A unique combination of cellular and humoral\r\nimmune responses was also seen. Initiation of humoral\r\nencapsulation by a number of GRs that got attached to various\r\ngrowing points of a fungal colony was noticed (Fig.1j).\r\nBoth cellular and humoral responses are known to occur\r\nin insects facing challenge. Cellular immune response involves\r\nphagocytosis and cellular encapsulation, and is widely\r\nstudied against various foreign bodies, both animate and\r\ninanimate. However, there are few reports of this response\r\nagainst antigens of fungal origin. Speare (1920) was perhaps\r\nthe first worker to note that low dose of an\r\nentomopathogenic fungus Sorosporilla uvella in a nonsusceptible\r\nhost viz. Bombyx elicited phagocytic response,\r\nbut a large dose of the same failed to induce this process.\r\nPhagocytosis against Aspergillus flavus (a pathogen) and\r\nA. niger (non-pathogenic to human), in Hyalophora cecropia\r\nand found higher in former case (Sussman, 1952).\r\nThe cell types invoved in phagocytosis are PLs, GRs\r\nand COs (Wago, 1980; Brehelin and Hoffmann, 1980; Guzo\r\nand Stoltz, 1987; Gunnarsson, 1988a). Phagocytosis had been\r\nnoted in GRs of Nezara viridula infected with Curvularia\r\nlunata (Singh et al., 1991) and Blattella germanica infected\r\nwith Aspergillus flavus (Kulshrestha and Pathak, 1997). In\r\nDysdercus similis, bulk of phagocytic activity is carried out\r\nonly by GRs while, COs and PLs also performed this function\r\nto a small extent. Cellular encapsulation involves COs and\r\nGRs in contact with the surface of the foreign material and\r\nthen releasing these cells to lysate which is highly\r\npigmented in the beginning but becomes dark later. This\r\nconglomerate then gets surrounded by multiple layers of\r\nflattened PLs. An outermost layer of rounded cells may also\r\nbe present in the capsule (Ennasser and Nappi, 1984; Lackie\r\net al., 1985; Lackie, 1988; Pathak, 1993) The typical\r\nmultilayered cellular capsule was not seen in Supella, but\r\ninitiation of cellular encapsulation by GRs and their lysate\r\naround the spores and hyphae of Aspergillus fumigatus\r\nwere recorded (Shrivastava, 2001). In Dysdercus too, the\r\nformation of the core of the capsule involving fungal material\r\nand GRs/COs was observed.','Karuna Singh and S.C. Pathak* (2010). Effect of Aspergillus fumigatus infection on cellular and humoral immune responses in red cotton stainer, Dysdercus similis (Heteroptera: Pyrrhocoridae). Biological Forum — An International Journal, 2(1): 9-11. '),(4687,'129','Studies on the reproductive behaviour of Ischnura aurora (Brauer)\r\n(Odonata: Insecta) around Dholbaha Dam (Punjab Shivalik), India','Gaurav Sharma','2 GAURAV.pdf','',1,'The reproductive behaviour of Ischnura aurora (Brauer) has been studied five times around Dholbaha\r\nDam during 2003-2004. Courtship is well marked and male demonstrate a circular territory with a radius of\r\nabout 30-50cm. The courtship wheel lasts for about 15-18 minutes performed by perching on vegetation. Oviposition\r\nis endophytic among the aquatic vegetation and lasts for 15-20 minutes. The duration of reproductive behaviour\r\nlasts for 50-85 minutes.','Ischnura aurora, Reproductive behaviour, Dholaha Dam, India','The reproductive behaviour of Ischnura aurora (Brauer) has been studied five times around Dholbaha\r\nDam during 2003-2004. Courtship is well marked and male demonstrate a circular territory with a radius of\r\nabout 30-50cm. The courtship wheel lasts for about 15-18 minutes performed by perching on vegetation. Oviposition\r\nis endophytic among the aquatic vegetation and lasts for 15-20 minutes. The duration of reproductive behaviour\r\nlasts for 50-85 minutes.','Approximately 6,000 species and subspecies belonging\r\nto 630 genera in 28 families of Odonata are known from all\r\nover the world (Tsuda, 1991), out of which 499 species and\r\nsubspecies of Odonata under 139 genera belonging to 17\r\nfamilies are reported from India (Prasad and Varshney, 1995).\r\nA few workers contributed in the field of study on the life\r\nhistory and behaviour of odonates such as Begum et al.,\r\n(1982), Copper et al. (1996), Corbet (1962, 1980, 1999),\r\nCordero (1989), Cordero et al., (1997), Gossum (1999),\r\nKormondy and Gower (1965), Kumar (1972a,b,c, 1973a,b, 1980\r\na, b, 1981, 1984 a, b, c, 1985a, 1985b, 1988, 1989), Mitra\r\n(2005), Parr (1973), Parr & Parr (1972), Prasad (1990), Rowe\r\n(1978), Sawchyn and Gillott (1974) and Srivastava and Babu\r\n(1984). In the present study a modest attempt has been\r\nmade to provide the detailed studies on the reproductive\r\nbehaviour of Ischnura aurora (Brauer).\r\nMATERIALS AND METHODS\r\nA. Study area\r\nDholbaha Dam is a man made wetland in village\r\nDholbaha of Distt. Hoshiarpur (Punjab: India), which is a\r\npart of Shivalik hills of Punjab state having geographical\r\narea of 9448.97 Km2 and lies between latitude 30°34’10.82\"\r\nand 32°33’02.96\" North and longitude 74°50’30.30\" and\r\n76°52’51.26\" East. It is constructed as under water harvesting\r\nstructure in the year 1987, for controlling the water, which\r\nused to cause heavy loss to the nearby villages. It is earth\r\nfilled dam and area under water is 132 ha. The total\r\ncatchment area of dam is 56.14 Km2 and it is 32 Km from\r\nHoshiarpur town of Punjab. It exists throughout the year\r\nalthough the water level may vary and thus forms a congenial\r\nhabitat for large number of aquatic insects and fishes. The\r\nforest type around Dholbaha Dam is moist deciduous. The\r\nprevailing climatic condition is typically sub-tropical and\r\nnorth Indian monsoon type with distinct summer and winter\r\nmonths. The temperature varies between 14°C-47°C in summer,\r\nwhere as between 0°C-32°C during winter. The south-west\r\nmonsoon arrives during June and remains till October. The\r\naverage annual rainfall varies between 400-600 mm.\r\nMETHODOLOGY\r\nThe total reservoir and surroundings were divided into\r\nfour sectors in accordance with distribution and the types\r\nof vegetation and topography. In each sector five spots\r\nwere selected according to the maximum availability of\r\nIschnura aurora (Brauer) for the present study. Monthly\r\ncollections and counting of imagos were made regularly from\r\nthe randomly selected spots. All the specimens collected\r\nfrom study area were deposited in the National Zoological\r\nCollection maintained by Northern Regional Station,\r\nZoological Survey of India, Dehra Dun. Identification of adult\r\nindividuals was carried out using identification keys\r\nprovided by Fraser (1933) and larvae by Kumar (1973b,\r\n1980b). The reproductive behaviour of Ischnura aurora\r\n(Brauer) was studied on the basis of visual observation\r\nmade during the visits to study site. Field binocular\r\n(30 × 25 DCF) and stop watch have been used for taking\r\nobservations. Photographs of species and their behavioural\r\npatterns were taken with the help of Sony DSC R1 10.3\r\nmega pixel cybershot camera.\r\nRESULTS\r\nThe five different observations on the reproductive\r\nbehaviour of Ischnura aurora (Brauer) on dated (12.05.03,\r\n18.06.03, 25.07.03, 11.05.04 and 22.07.04) has been studied\r\nduring 2003-04, out of which three cases happened without\r\ninterference on dated (18.06.03, 25.07.03 and 22.07.04). The\r\nstudy recorded detailed reproductive behavior as below:\r\n(a) Territorality. The males of Ischnura aurora (Brauer)\r\narrived at the rendezvous during 8:30-9:30 a.m., while the\r\nfemales appeared from the surrounding vegetation little late\r\nduring 9:15-10:00 a.m. The males after arrival perched on\r\nsome nearby vegetation like Polygonum barbatum, P.\r\nglabrum, Themeda anathera, Saccharum spontaneum and\r\non some other grasses. The perch formed the center of a\r\ncircular territory with a radius of about 30-50cm. This territory\r\nwas guarded or defended by the resident male from the\r\nintruding conspecific males.\r\nISSN : 0975-1130\r\nBiological Forum — An International Journal, 2(1): 6-8(2010)\r\nSharma 7\r\n(b) Before wheel tandem. When the female entered into\r\nthe territory, the male followed her. As soon as she alighted\r\non some vegetation, the male hovered in the air remaining\r\nat a same place and observed her very carefully. Then\r\nsuddenly it jumped on her and caught her wings by its\r\nlegs. After that it tried to catch the female’s prothorax by its\r\nanal appendages. The pair in tandem flew to some nearby\r\nvegetation and perch. The before wheel tandem lasted for\r\nabout 20-30 minutes. This was the time when intramale sperm\r\ntranslocation took place 3-4 times, at an interval of 2-3\r\nminutes.\r\n(c) Copulatory wheel position. After the completion of\r\nintramale sperm translocation, the courtship wheel was\r\nformed. The duration of wheel position varied from 15-18\r\nminutes, but in one case it has been observed till 25 minutes.\r\nThe pair in courtship wheel sometimes changed the perch\r\nin the same position due disturbance.\r\n(d) After wheel tandem. After breaking of the wheel the\r\nmale lowered the female and the female also grasped some\r\nvegetation by her legs. After wheel tandem lasted for 5-10\r\nminutes. Then the male released her.\r\n(e) Oviposition. After a rest of 10-15 minutes, the female\r\nstarted ovipositing unaccompanied by a male. Eggs were\r\nlaid in the emergent stems of aquatic vegetation. The females\r\nwent down underwater till their thorax region was above\r\nwater and were never found to be submerged totally for\r\negg laying. The females changed their places during\r\noviposition which was continued till 15-20 minutes.\r\nDISCUSSION\r\nFrom the literature study it reveals that there is variation\r\nin reproductive behaviour of damselflies and dragonflies\r\nspecies to species. They exhibit different patterns in site\r\nselection, territory formation, oviposition, emergence, habitat\r\npreference etc. As Darwin (1859) stated in the “Origin of\r\nSpecies”, that sexual selection, “depends, not on a struggle\r\nfor existence, but on a struggle between the males for\r\npossession of females; the result is not death to the\r\nunsuccessful competitors, but few or no offspring”. In\r\nodonates, the primary goal of an adult male is to secure\r\nmates and therefore in the polygynous mating system,\r\ncompetition for mating opportunities exists. Many different\r\nreproductive tactics have evolved to optimize the number\r\nof opportunities to successfully reproduce with female, the\r\nterritorial behaviour is exhibited in order to gain access to\r\nthe female (Brown and Orians, 1970) and the territorial\r\nbehaviour, copulation and oviposition are carried out within\r\nor near the territory (Conrad and Pritchard, 1992). Several\r\nvariation of the ovipositing behaviour exists in Odonata,\r\nbut the male has become territorial of these oviposition sites\r\nrespective to its species (Corbet, 1962). Therefore the present\r\nstudies on the reproductive behaviour of Ischnura aurora\r\n(Brauer) highlighted the unique behavioural aspects of\r\ndamselflies which vary from species to species.','Gaurav Sharma (2010). Studies on the reproductive behaviour of Ischnura aurora (Brauer) (Odonata: Insecta) around Dholbaha Dam (Punjab Shivalik), India. Biological Forum — An International Journal, 2(1): 6-8. '),(4688,'129','Status of genus Abisara Felder and Felder (Lepidoptera : Riodinidae)\r\nin the Indian Himalayas with taxonomic notes on the species A. fylla\r\n(Westwood)','Charn Kumar, H.S. Rose* and Avtar Kaur Sidhu**','4_Charn.pdf','',1,'The genus Abisara Felder and Felder has been represented by nine speciec Abisara fylla Hewitson,\r\nA. echerius Stoll, A. abnormis Moore, A. kausambi Felder and Felder, A. saturata Moore, A. savitri Felder, A.\r\nnephron Hewitson, A. chela de Nicéville, A. bifasciata Moore from Indian Himalayas. But during the surveys in\r\nthis area from 1991 to 1998 in different periods of the years, only one species i.e., A. fylla could be collected,\r\nwhich inferred that this genus has come under threat. Besides, in present studies the female genitalia of A. fylla\r\nis studied for the first time.','Lycaenidae, Riodinidae, Abisara, fylla, female genitalia','The genus Abisara Felder and Felder has been represented by nine speciec Abisara fylla Hewitson,\r\nA. echerius Stoll, A. abnormis Moore, A. kausambi Felder and Felder, A. saturata Moore, A. savitri Felder, A.\r\nnephron Hewitson, A. chela de Nicéville, A. bifasciata Moore from Indian Himalayas. But during the surveys in\r\nthis area from 1991 to 1998 in different periods of the years, only one species i.e., A. fylla could be collected,\r\nwhich inferred that this genus has come under threat. Besides, in present studies the female genitalia of A. fylla\r\nis studied for the first time.','According to Eliot (1992), the genus Abisara Felder and\r\nFelder is distributed throughout the Oriental region and is\r\nalso represented in tropical Africa. Bridges (1988) has enlisted\r\ntwenty eight species world over and out of these thirteen\r\nbelong to the Oriental region (d’ Abrera, 1986). In Indian\r\ncontext, the scrutiny of relevant literature shows that the\r\ngenus with ten species viz., Abisara fylla Hewitson, A.\r\necherius Stoll, A. abnormis Moore, A. bifasciata Moore, A.\r\nkausambi Felder and Felder, A. saturata Moore, A. savitri\r\nFelder, A. nephron Hewitson, A. chela de Nicéville and A.\r\nburnii de Nicéville has a restricted distribution largely in\r\nthe North-East Himalaya, except A. echerius Stoll which is\r\nalso reported from South-India (Evans, 1932; Wynter-Blyth,\r\n1957; d’ Abrera, loc. cit.; Haribal, 1992), of which nine species\r\nare reported from India except A. burnii. However during\r\npresent surveys only one species i.e., Abisara fylla could\r\nbe collected from Arunachal Pradesh. The female genitalia\r\nof this species is described for the first time.\r\nOBSERVATIONS\r\nGenus Abisara Felder and Felder\r\nCommon name. The Judies Felder and Felder, 1860, Wien.\r\nent. Monats. 4 : 397; Bingham, 1905, Fauna Brit. Ind., Butts\r\nI ; Evans, 1932, Ident. Indian Butts (2nd ed.) : 196; Bennett,\r\n1950, Entomologist 83(1): 2; Eliot, 1992, Butts Malay Penin.\r\n(4th ed.) : 207.\r\nLycaena Hübner, [1819], verz. bekannt. Schmett. (2) :\r\n23.\r\nSospita Hewitson, [1861], Ill. exot. Butts 2 : (91).\r\nSosibia Fruhstorfer, [1914], In Seitz, Grossschmett. Erde\r\n9 : 179.\r\nType-species : Abisara kausambi Felder and Felder\r\nFelder and Felder, 1860, Wien. ent. Monats. 4(12): 397.\r\nEyes hairy; labial palpi short, porrect, not extending\r\nbeyond head, third segment very small, dome shaped,\r\nacuminate; antenna with club well defined, spindle shaped;\r\nmiddle and hind tibiae with a single terminal spur; forewing\r\nwith 12 veins, stalk of veins R3 + R4 + R5 and vein M1\r\nseparated at end cell, vein Sc. and vein R1 free, hindwing\r\nwith vein RS originated well beyond end cell; female genitalia\r\nwith genital plate weakly sclerotized, ductus seminalis enters\r\ndorsad near base of ductus bursae, corpus bursae well\r\nmarked, ovate, a pair of pustule shaped signa present,\r\napophyses anteriores and apophyses posteriores absent.\r\nAbisara fylla (Westwood)\r\nCommon name. The Dark Judy Westwood, [1851], In\r\nGen. diurn. Lep. (2) : pl. 69 b 3 (Taxila); Bingham, 1905,\r\nFauna Brit. Ind., Butts I : 490 (Abisara); Evans, 1932, Ident.\r\nIndian Butts (2nd ed.) : 196 (Abisara); Pinratana, 1988, Butts\r\nThailand : 42 (Abisara).\r\nfyllaria Fruhstorfer, [1914], In Seitz, Grossschmett. Erde\r\n9 : 780 (Abisara).\r\nFemale Genitalia. Lodix not developed; genital plate\r\nsquarish, lamella antevaginalis weaky sclerotized, broad,\r\nC-shaped, with a semicircular emargination in middle of distal\r\nmargin, lamella postvaginalis more sclerotized, rectangular\r\nplate-like with rounded angles; ductus seminalis\r\nmembranous, enters dorsally at base of ductus bursae;\r\nductus bursae long, with narrow sclerotized base dorsally,\r\notherwise membranous, gradually broadened distally,\r\ninception at corpus bursae well marked; corpus bursae ovate,\r\nshorter than ductus bursae, membranous, with a pair of\r\npustule-like signa; apophyses anteriores absent; apophyses\r\nposteriores not developed; papilla analis weakly sclerotized,\r\noval, pilose.\r\nForewing length; Female : 27 mm.\r\nStatus of genus Abisara Felder and Felder (Lepidoptera : Riodinidae)\r\nin the Indian Himalayas with taxonomic notes on the species A. fylla\r\n(Westwood)\r\nCharn Kumar, H.S. Rose* and Avtar Kaur Sidhu**\r\nA.S. College Khanna (PB) INDIA\r\n*SUS College of Research and Technology Mohali (PB) INDIA\r\n**High Altitude Regional Centre Zoological Survey of India Saproon, Solan (HP) INDIA\r\nABSTRACT : The genus Abisara Felder and Felder has been represented by nine speciec Abisara fylla Hewitson,\r\nA. echerius Stoll, A. abnormis Moore, A. kausambi Felder and Felder, A. saturata Moore, A. savitri Felder, A.\r\nnephron Hewitson, A. chela de Nicéville, A. bifasciata Moore from Indian Himalayas. But during the surveys in\r\nthis area from 1991 to 1998 in different periods of the years, only one species i.e., A. fylla could be collected,\r\nwhich inferred that this genus has come under threat. Besides, in present studies the female genitalia of A. fylla\r\nis studied for the first time.\r\nKeywords : Lycaenidae, Riodinidae, Abisara, fylla, female genitalia\r\nBiological Forum — An International Journal, 2(1): 12-13(2010) ISSN : 0975-1130\r\nKumar, Rose and Sidhu 13\r\nMATERIAL EXAMINED\r\nArunachal Pradesh : 1 , 2.V.95, Itanagar, 550 m ASL,\r\nPapum Pare.\r\nRange : 550 m ASL.\r\nOld distribution. Mussoorie to Assam and Burma,\r\nThailand.\r\nLarval food plant. Maesa chisia D. Don (Sevastopulo,\r\n1973).\r\nRemarks\r\nOut of nine species recorded from India viz., Abisara\r\nfylla Hewitson, A. echerius Stoll, A. abnormis Moore, A.\r\nkausambi Felder and Felder, A. saturata Moore, A. savitri\r\nFelder, A. nephron Hewitson, A. chela de Nicéville, A.\r\nbifasciata Moore (Evans,1932; Wynter-Blyth, 1957; Varshney,\r\n1994), during the course of present intensive and extensive\r\nsurveys undertaken during premonsoon, monsoon and\r\npostmonsoon seasons, only one female of the species,\r\nunder reference, could be collected from the above mentioned\r\nlocality. So much so, no specimen could be collected at\r\nMussoorie (Uttarakhand) from where, it has been reported\r\nearlier by Bingham (1907), Ollenbach (1929), Evans (1932),\r\nPeile (1937) and Wynter-Blyth (1957). It may specifically be\r\nmentioned here that Mussoorie and its surrounding areas\r\nhave been vastly explored for butterfly collections in the\r\nI.C.A.R., New Delhi sponsored projects between1991to1998.\r\nHowever, prior to this, Shull (1958, 1962) too did not record\r\nthis species from Mussoorie. Except this species becoming\r\nrarer, it is being felt that either the previous records are\r\nrather too ambiguous or all the species have become extinct\r\ndue to obvious reasons of habitat destruction and loss of\r\nlarval host plants, for which no information is available.','Charn Kumar, H.S. Rose and Avtar Kaur Sidhu (2010). Status of genus Abisara Felder and Felder (Lepidoptera : Riodinidae) in the Indian Himalayas with taxonomic notes on the species A. fylla (Westwood). '),(4689,'129','Ecology of Ichthyophis bombayensis (Gymnophiona : Amphibia) from\r\nKoyana region, Maharashtra, India','B.V. Jadhav','5 BV JADHAV.pdf','',1,'The survey was conducted in Koyana region of northern Western Ghats of Maharashtra from June\r\n2004 to October 2008. Western Ghats of India is well known biodiversity hotspot. Ichthyophis bombayensis was\r\nencountered in different habitats of Koyana region at altitude between 500 to 630 m above the sea level. We\r\nstudied the rain fall, temperature of soil and air, pH of soil, altitude, latitude, longitude and different habitats, in\r\nwhich Ichthyophis inhabited and analyzed the soil samples of three spots and found that soil become red and\r\nporous due to rich iron content and exclusively become acidic.','Ichthyophis bombayensis, ecology, Western Ghats, Koyana,','The survey was conducted in Koyana region of northern Western Ghats of Maharashtra from June\r\n2004 to October 2008. Western Ghats of India is well known biodiversity hotspot. Ichthyophis bombayensis was\r\nencountered in different habitats of Koyana region at altitude between 500 to 630 m above the sea level. We\r\nstudied the rain fall, temperature of soil and air, pH of soil, altitude, latitude, longitude and different habitats, in\r\nwhich Ichthyophis inhabited and analyzed the soil samples of three spots and found that soil become red and\r\nporous due to rich iron content and exclusively become acidic.','The order Gymnophiona includes limbless, girdle less\r\nand burrowing amphibians commonly called as caecilians.\r\nThey are reported from several areas in Asia, Africa and\r\nSouth and Central America (Taylor 1968). India is suppose\r\nto be home of many caecilians, it includes four genera belong\r\nto three families. Caecilians have exclusively secretive and\r\nburrowing life in soil for in search of food (Gundappa\r\net. al., 1981), it makes them difficult to study and\r\nmake them rare (Pillai and Ravichandran, 1999). They are\r\nmainly forest creature’s lives in burrows, later found in\r\ncultivated lands nearby forest. They are generally mistaken\r\nas earthworms or even as snakes (Bhatta 1997). Caecilians\r\nare dominant terrestrial amphibians, till not properly surveyed\r\nfrom northern Western Ghats. A very little information is\r\navailable on habitats and its related ecological parameters\r\nfrom Northern Western Ghats.\r\nThe Western Ghats of India is recognized as world\r\nbiodiversity hotspot and it is home for many Indian and\r\nregional endemic species, especially amphibians including\r\ncaecilians (Oommen et. al., 2000), The Western Ghats with\r\nheavy rainfall, moderate temperature, well grown vegetations\r\nwith short dry season, provide the ideal environment for\r\nthe occurrence of the amphibians specially caecilians in\r\nperticular (Bhatta 1997). Caecilians are more explored in South\r\nand Central Western Ghats of India than northern Western\r\nGhats of Maharashtra, might be enrich the caecilian diversity\r\n(Bhatta and Prashanth 2004).\r\nPrevious studies on Indian caecilians were mostly\r\nconcerned to taxonomy, morphology and some part on\r\nreproductive biology and ecology. Due to absence of clear\r\ninformation on their distribution pattern and systematic, it\r\nis difficult to evaluate the present status of caecilians from\r\nIndia. To assess the present status of caecilians, study the\r\nhabitats, soils analysis and their relative parameters are\r\nhighly essential (Ravichandran and Pillai 1996). We\r\ninvestigate here the new habitats and studied its related\r\necological parameters of Ichthyophis bombayensis of\r\nnorthern Western Ghats of Maharashtra from Koyana region.\r\nMATERIAL AND METHODS\r\nWe conducted survey in Koyana region of Patan Tehsil\r\nfrom June 2004 to October 2008 as a part to the study of\r\ncaecilians i.e., Ichthyophis. We randomly selected 20 spots\r\nrun parallel to Koyana River and Chiplun- Karad state\r\nhighway viz., Helwak, Koyana, Ghoshatwadi, Maneri, Marul,\r\nShiral, Yerad, Tamkade, Kaloli, Ramapur, Patan, Mulgaon,\r\nKatawadi, Mhavashi, Adul, Marali, Naralwadi, Nisare,\r\nShitalwadi and Vihe. Selected spots were red porous soil,\r\nshadow places and deep layer of leaf litters.\r\nSurveys were carried out about 55 km parallel to Koyana\r\nRiver and Chiplun- Karad state highway at altitude 500 to\r\n630 m above sea level. We surveyed various habitats such\r\nas grasslands, mixed forest and cultivated fields such as\r\npaddy, sugarcane, groundnuts, nachani, Jowar, while we\r\nencountered most of specimen of caecilians in field of\r\nsugarcane. Hence, we selected to survey only sugarcane\r\nfields to get maximum chances of caecilians.\r\nSurveys were carried out each selected spot fifteen days\r\nintervals during rainy season. We studied caecilians by\r\ndigging the soil upto depth 10 to 30 cm, rolling the stones,\r\nlogs, leaf litters and also surveyed the road accident\r\nspecimens on Chiplun- Karad state highway. The rain fall,\r\ntemperature of soil and air, PH of soil, altitude, latitude and\r\nlongitude of selected spots were measured Table 1. We\r\nanalyzed chemical composition of soils from Maneri, Yerad\r\nand Katawadi in Govt. laboratory, Islampur; the results are\r\nshown in Table 2.\r\nRESULTS AND DISCUSSION\r\nIt is interesting to note that Ichthyophis found in\r\nKoyana region at altitude of ranging from 500 to 630 m\r\nabove sea level are different form that of reported earlier','B.V. Jadhav (2010). Ecology of Ichthyophis bombayensis (Gymnophiona : Amphibia) from Koyana region, Maharashtra, India. Biological Forum — An International Journal, 2(1): 14-17. '),(4690,'129','A short-term surveillance of coleopteran fauna in an agro-ecosystem\r\nnear Bikaner (Western Rajasthan), India','Asif Parvez and Meera Srivastava','7 MEERA.pdf','',1,'Biodiversity of species at ecosystem level plays an important role in sustaining agro-ecosystem.\r\nThe insect fauna is one of the most diversified biological components of any habitat. A cropland field represents\r\nan agro-ecosystem, which is the most assured food source for insects. The agro-ecosystem in Thar desert is, more\r\nspecific due to a number of features which are hostile and greatly mar heterotroph population. The present study\r\nwas carried out in an agro-ecosystem near Bikaner (Western Rajasthan). The coleopteran fauna was collected\r\nusing indigenously fabricated cage and light trap from October 2006 to March 2007. Beetles belonging to five\r\nmajor families viz., Scarabaeidae, Coccinelidae, Curculionidae, Meloidae and Elateridae were documented from\r\nthe study area. In all, eighteen species were collected thirteen using cage/net, while ten were found in light trap\r\ncollections. Diversity-wise as well as density-wise members belonging to family Scarabaeidae were the major\r\nforms represented by eight species viz. Scarabeus andrewesi, Schizonycha ruficollis, Pentadon bipiniforns, Onthophagus\r\noculatus, O. bonasus, Anomala bengalensis, Onthogonius sp., and Apogonia ferruginea.; family Curculionidae was\r\nrepresented by five member viz. Chlonius duvauceli, Myllocerus undecimpustulatus, Hypolixus truncatulus, Paramecops\r\nfarinosa, Cleonus sannio.; family Meloidae was represented by two species namely Mylabris rajasthanicus, and\r\nCylindrothorax pictus; family Elateridae also comprised of two species namely Melanstus sp., and Silesis inficetus;\r\nfamily Coccinelidae was represented by only one species namely Coccinella septempunctata. The diversity and\r\ndensity of coleopteran fauna in general, was found to depend upon the climatic conditions and various crops in\r\nthe agro-ecosystem.','-','Biodiversity of species at ecosystem level plays an important role in sustaining agro-ecosystem.\r\nThe insect fauna is one of the most diversified biological components of any habitat. A cropland field represents\r\nan agro-ecosystem, which is the most assured food source for insects. The agro-ecosystem in Thar desert is, more\r\nspecific due to a number of features which are hostile and greatly mar heterotroph population. The present study\r\nwas carried out in an agro-ecosystem near Bikaner (Western Rajasthan). The coleopteran fauna was collected\r\nusing indigenously fabricated cage and light trap from October 2006 to March 2007. Beetles belonging to five\r\nmajor families viz., Scarabaeidae, Coccinelidae, Curculionidae, Meloidae and Elateridae were documented from\r\nthe study area. In all, eighteen species were collected thirteen using cage/net, while ten were found in light trap\r\ncollections. Diversity-wise as well as density-wise members belonging to family Scarabaeidae were the major\r\nforms represented by eight species viz. Scarabeus andrewesi, Schizonycha ruficollis, Pentadon bipiniforns, Onthophagus\r\noculatus, O. bonasus, Anomala bengalensis, Onthogonius sp., and Apogonia ferruginea.; family Curculionidae was\r\nrepresented by five member viz. Chlonius duvauceli, Myllocerus undecimpustulatus, Hypolixus truncatulus, Paramecops\r\nfarinosa, Cleonus sannio.; family Meloidae was represented by two species namely Mylabris rajasthanicus, and\r\nCylindrothorax pictus; family Elateridae also comprised of two species namely Melanstus sp., and Silesis inficetus;\r\nfamily Coccinelidae was represented by only one species namely Coccinella septempunctata. The diversity and\r\ndensity of coleopteran fauna in general, was found to depend upon the climatic conditions and various crops in\r\nthe agro-ecosystem.','Insect fauna is one of the most diversified biological\r\ncomponents of any habitat. The agro-ecosystems in Thar\r\ndesert are specific in a number of features viz., extremes of\r\ndaily annual temperature, long sunshine hours, fewer cloudy\r\ndays, shallow soil, low moisture content, dry violent wind,\r\nhigh evapo-transpiration rate, poor fertility of soil and in\r\ngeneral nature of soil and water-logging. Rain is scanty and\r\ndroughts occur quite often. Insect being exception as\r\nhaving great degree of adaptability to occupy different\r\nhabitat and ecological niche play many significant role as\r\npest, predator, pollinator and nutrient transformer in such a\r\nsystem. The biodiversity plays an important role in the\r\nfunctioning of an agro-ecosystem.\r\nMore than 75% of the known species of animals and\r\napproximately 0.9 million species of insects have been\r\nidentified throughout the world. The order Coleoptera is the\r\nlargest order in animal kingdom which includes 40% of all\r\ninsects and nearly 30% of all animal species. It comprises\r\nof 166 families and more than 30,000 species. The members\r\ncommonly known as ‘beetles’ include about 3,50,000 species\r\namong which about 1,50,88 species are known from Indian\r\nregion (Kazmi and Ramamurthy, 2004). Looking into the\r\nsignificance of this major order of class Insecta the present\r\nstudy was undertaken to explore the coleopteran fauna of\r\nan agro-ecosystem near Bikaner in relation to its : (i)\r\nDiversity and (ii) Density.\r\nThe study area\r\nRajasthan is the largest state in India occupying an\r\narea of 3,42,239 sq km. with vivid topographical features.\r\nThe area under study falls in the Indian desert near Bikaner\r\nsituated in western Rajasthan along the international border\r\nattached to Pakistan. The agro-ecosystem in the form of\r\ncrop field is situated 8 km from Bikaner (23°3′ and 30°12′ N\r\nlatitude) and covers an area of 6 ha. Seasonal crops are\r\ngrown in field. During the period of study the field\r\ncomprised of wheat, mustard and vegetable crops such as\r\nbrinjal, cauliflower, cabbage, coriander, raddish and\r\nornamental flowers like marigold etc. In its vicinity are also\r\npresent Prosopis cineraria, P. juliflora, P. senegal,\r\nCalotropis procera etc.\r\nMETHODOLOGY\r\n(i) Periodicity. The collection of coleopteran fauna was\r\ncarried out from October, 2006 to March, 2007 comprising\r\nmainly the winter season and partly also the summer season.\r\nWeekly sampling was carried out for the collection of beetles.\r\n(ii) Sampling. Sampling was done using cage/net and\r\nusing light trap.\r\n(a) A cage of 1m × 1m of Nylon mesh was used as\r\nfabricated for the purpose and insects were\r\nmechanically picked up during day hours.\r\n(b) Light trap with 260 Watt mercury bulb was used in\r\nthe field and over-night collection of insect was\r\ntaken.\r\nA short-term surveillance of coleopteran fauna in an agro-ecosystem\r\nnear Bikaner (Western Rajasthan), India\r\nAsif Parvez and Meera Srivastava\r\nLaboratory of Entomology, P.G. Department of Zoology, Govt. Dungar College, Bikaner (RJ) INDIA\r\nABSTRACT : Biodiversity of species at ecosystem level plays an important role in sustaining agro-ecosystem.\r\nThe insect fauna is one of the most diversified biological components of any habitat. A cropland field represents\r\nan agro-ecosystem, which is the most assured food source for insects. The agro-ecosystem in Thar desert is, more\r\nspecific due to a number of features which are hostile and greatly mar heterotroph population. The present study\r\nwas carried out in an agro-ecosystem near Bikaner (Western Rajasthan). The coleopteran fauna was collected\r\nusing indigenously fabricated cage and light trap from October 2006 to March 2007. Beetles belonging to five\r\nmajor families viz., Scarabaeidae, Coccinelidae, Curculionidae, Meloidae and Elateridae were documented from\r\nthe study area. In all, eighteen species were collected thirteen using cage/net, while ten were found in light trap\r\ncollections. Diversity-wise as well as density-wise members belonging to family Scarabaeidae were the major\r\nforms represented by eight species viz. Scarabeus andrewesi, Schizonycha ruficollis, Pentadon bipiniforns, Onthophagus\r\noculatus, O. bonasus, Anomala bengalensis, Onthogonius sp., and Apogonia ferruginea.; family Curculionidae was\r\nrepresented by five member viz. Chlonius duvauceli, Myllocerus undecimpustulatus, Hypolixus truncatulus, Paramecops\r\nfarinosa, Cleonus sannio.; family Meloidae was represented by two species namely Mylabris rajasthanicus, and\r\nCylindrothorax pictus; family Elateridae also comprised of two species namely Melanstus sp., and Silesis inficetus;\r\nfamily Coccinelidae was represented by only one species namely Coccinella septempunctata. The diversity and\r\ndensity of coleopteran fauna in general, was found to depend upon the climatic conditions and various crops in\r\nthe agro-ecosystem.\r\nISSN : 0975-1130\r\nBiological Forum — An International Journal, 2(1): 23-29(2010)\r\n24 Parvez and Srivastava\r\n(iii) Preservation of fauna collected. The beetles\r\ncollected were transferred to killing bottle and then\r\npreserved. Smaller insects were preserved in 70% alcohol\r\nand large insect were put to dry preservation by pinning.\r\n(iv) Examination and identification of fauna. The\r\ncoleopteran fauna were sorted and identifications were made\r\nby following Arrow (1931), Fowler (1912), Andrews (1929),\r\nSaha (1979), Pajni (1990).The count of beetles collected\r\nthrough cage technique was averaged for each month and\r\nexpressed as No./m3. The collection made through light\r\ntrap was expressed as No./light trap/night.\r\nOBSERVATIONS AND RESULTS\r\nColeopteran fauna in relation to diversity\r\nIn all, 18 species belonging to 5 major families were\r\nreckoned from the agro-ecosystem during the period of\r\nstudy and have been presented in Table 1. Thirteen species\r\nwere collected using cage/net Table 2 while ten species\r\nwere documented in light trap collection Table 3. The\r\ncoleopteran fauna documented belonged to the following\r\nfamilies :','Asif Parvez and Meera Srivastava (2010). A short-term surveillance of coleopteran fauna in an agro-ecosystem near Bikaner (Western Rajasthan), India. Biological Forum — An International Journal, 2(1): 23-29.'),(4691,'129','Evaluation of emergence and vigour of Ashwagandha (Withania\r\nsomnifera Dunal) seedlings under the influence of Sodium\r\nHypochlorite (NaHClO3) and different micro-environmental conditions','Rajiv K. Vashistha, Ashish K. Chaturvedi, Jitendra S. Butola and M.C. Nautiyal','8 RAJIV BATULA.pdf','',1,'Ashwagandha (Withania somnifera Dunal), a well recognised medicinal plant species, is widely\r\nused as tonic in various preparations of Ayurvedic, Unani and Modern Systems of Medicine. This species has\r\nconsistent demand in pharmaceutical industries and being successfully cultivated in many tropical regions of\r\nIndia. Despite that the supply of 50% of the raw materials is met from the harvesting of wild populations. We\r\nexamined the effect of different micro-environmental conditions (open, glasshouse and nethouse) and pre-sowing\r\ntreatments of Sodium Hypochlorite (NaHClO3: 5 & 10-minutes) on seedling emergence, growth and biomass in\r\nthis species. The seeds treated with NaHClO3 (5-minutes) showed maximum emergence in glasshouse condition\r\n(76.67%), which was significantly (P<0.05) higher than other conditions. However, seedlings growth and biomass\r\nin open condition were comparable to that in glasshouse condition. It is suggested that for large scale cultivation,\r\nthe seedlings (in two-three-leaf stage) produced in the glasshouse should be transferred to the open fields. We\r\noffer these simple and low cost tools especially for unskilled and poor farmers interested in nursery development\r\nand cultivation of this species.','Medicinal, micro-environments, pre-treatments, seedling emergence, growth, biomass, cultivation','The 5-minutes’ treatment of NaHClO3 and glasshouse\r\ncondition yielded maximum emergence in Ashwagandha.\r\nHowever, seedlings growth and biomass in open condition\r\nwere comparable to that in glasshouse condition. Therefore,\r\nit can be concluded that the seeds treated with the above\r\nchemical should be sown in glasshouse for mass scale\r\nproduction of healthy seedlings. But for large scale\r\ncultivation, the seedlings (in two-three-leaf stage) produced\r\nin glasshouse should be transferred to the open fields.\r\nThese methods being simple and low cost may be readily\r\nadopted by unskilled and poor farmers for developing healthy\r\nplanting stock and cultivation of this species.','species worldwide, is distributed in east of the\r\nMediterranean region, extending to South Asia mainly India,\r\nSri Lanka and Pakistan (Gaur, 1999). Two species namely,\r\nWithania coagulans Dunal and W. somnifera Dunal occur\r\nin India. Withania somnifera, popularly known as\r\nAshwagandha, is a 50-150 cm tall, erect evergreen tomentose\r\nself-pollinating shrub, which has consistent demand in\r\npharmaceutical industries due to its unique medicinal\r\nproperties (Anonymous, 1976). It occurs throughout the drier\r\nparts of India, mainly at low elevation ranges of Bombay,\r\nGujarat, Madhya Pradesh, Rajasthan, Punjab, Uttar Pradesh.\r\nIt thrives very well in waste places and roadsides. In\r\nHimalayan region, it occurs in Uttarakhand, Himachal Pradesh\r\nand Jammu & Kashmir upto 1650 m above mean sea level\r\n(amsl). This species is widely used as tonic in various\r\npreparations of Ayurvedic, Unani and Modern Systems of\r\nMedicine. Various parts of the plant are used to cure over\r\n85 diseases (Butola et al., 2008). Leaves and roots contain\r\nmany alkaloids and withanolids. Withaferin-A is the most\r\nimportant withanolids isolated so far which shows anti-biotic,\r\nanti-arthritic, anti-inflammatory and anti-tumour activities\r\n(Anonymous, 1976). Its fruits and seeds besides being\r\nmedicinal (diuretic, hypnotic, etc.) are employed in curdling\r\nmilk to prepare vegetarian cheese. The seeds are also used\r\nas a substitute of soap being rich in saponins.\r\nAshwagandha has high demand (500 tonnes, during\r\n1999) in pharmaceutical industries, 50% of which is met\r\nthrough harvesting of wild population (NRIF, 2004). Its\r\ncurrent domestic sales are approximately Rs. 100-120 million\r\n(Rawat and Garg, 2005). Extensive cultivation of this species\r\nis being done in many tropical regions of India. Report is\r\nalso available revealing its successful cultivation in a\r\ntemperate climate zone (Butola and Samant, 2007). It is mainly\r\npropagated through seeds. During our experimental trials in\r\nthis species, it is experienced that the seeds when sown\r\ndirectly in the field yielded low and erratic germination and\r\nheterogeneous seedling stand. Different reports on this\r\nspecies suggest that the germination percentage can be\r\nimproved by the application of pre-sowing chemical\r\ntreatments (Kattimani et. al., 1999; Vakeswaran and\r\nKrishnasamy, 2003a,b) or by providing congenial growth\r\nenvironments (Obidoska et al., 2004; Butola and Samant,\r\n2007; Panwar et. al., 2009). For successful propagation and\r\nmass multiplication of any plant species, the identification\r\nof suitable growth environments to achieve optimum seedling\r\nemergence, growth, yield and survival, is an important\r\nnursery practice (Nautiyal et. al., 2001, Butola and Badola,\r\n2006a, 2008). In a crop’s life cycle, the time from seed sowing\r\nto seedling establishment is considered a vital phase, which\r\ndecidedly influences the final yield and post-harvest seed\r\nquality (Wurr and Fellows, 1983). Further, the probability of\r\na seedling surviving to maturity largely depends upon the\r\nright time and place of germination (Thompson, 1973).\r\nISSN : 0975-1130\r\nBiological Forum — An International Journal, 2(1): 30-34(2010)\r\nVashishtha, Chaturvedi, Butola and Nautiyal 31\r\nKeeping these points in mind, there is a dire need to explore\r\nlow cost and simple technological tools particularly for\r\nnursery workers and poor farmers interested in developing\r\nmass planting stock of this species. Therefore, we designed\r\nthe present study to examine the effect of different microenvironmental\r\nconditions and pre-treatments of a low cost\r\nsurface disinfectant (NaHClO3) on seedling emergence and\r\nvigour of this species.\r\nMATERIALS AND METHODS\r\nA. Plant materials\r\nDuring the month of December (2008), mature fruits of\r\nAshwagandha were collected from the medicinal plants\r\ngarden of High Altitude Plant Physiology Research Centre\r\n(HAPPRC), located at 550 m amsl in Srinagar, district Pouri,\r\nUttarakhand. Seeds were extracted from the fruits and airdried\r\nfor one week before storage in air-tight polybags until\r\nused for experimental trials.\r\nB. Seedling emergence, growth and biomass\r\nThe experiment lasted for two months, i.e., April-May,\r\n2009. The percent moisture content of seeds was determined\r\nfollowing ISTA (1985). Viability of the stored seeds was\r\ntested using tetrazolium (pH 6.0) according to the procedure\r\nof ISTA (1985). A lot of five hundred (#500) seeds were\r\ntreated with Sodium Hypochlorite (NaHClO3, 4% available)\r\nfor 5 and 10-minutes. Seeds soaked with double distilled\r\nwater for 24 hrs considered as control. Treated seeds\r\n(9 seeds per tray) were sown in Styrofoam seedling trays\r\n(30cm × 30cm) containing a potting mixture of garden soil\r\n(sandy loam), sand and leaf litter (1:1:1, v:v:v; pH: 5.5-6.4,\r\norganic carbon content: 1.0%-1.2%). A total of 27(3\r\ntreatments × 3 replicate × 3 conditions) trays were used.\r\nThe seeded trays were placed in different microenvironmental\r\nconditions, viz., Open (temperature: max. 29.5\r\n± 2.9°C and min. 13.8 ± 1.0°C); Glasshouse (temperature:\r\nmax. 33.3 ± 4.0°C and mini. 15.33 ± 1.2°C) and Nethouse\r\n(temperature: max. 28.8 ± 2.8°C and mini. 12.6 ± 1.0°C). The\r\ntrays were kept moist through watering with a fine sprayer\r\nas and when required. Seedlings were considered emerged\r\nwhen cotyledonary leaves appeared on the media surface.\r\nThe experiment was monitored on daily basis and terminated\r\nwhen no more seedlings emerged for two weeks.\r\nAfter 4 months of sowing, 30 seedlings from each\r\ncondition (10 seedlings per treatment) were randomly\r\nharvested to assess growth and biomass. After recording\r\ndifferent growth parameters, viz., shoot length and\r\ndiameter, root length and diameter, leaf area, number of\r\nleaves and petiole length, the plants were slashed from\r\ncollar to divide into above and below ground parts. These\r\nparts were oven-dried at 80°C for 24 hrs to assess total\r\nbiomass (g/plant).\r\nC. Data analysis\r\nData were analyzed statistically using MS excel, 2007.\r\nOne way analysis of variance (ANOVA) and Fisher’s least\r\nsignificant differences (F-LSD) was employed to calculate\r\nsignificant difference between means of different parameters\r\n(Snedecor and Cochran, 1967). Data in percentages were\r\nsubjected to arcsine transformation before analysis of\r\nvariance and then converted back to percentage for\r\npresentation.\r\nRESULTS\r\nAt the time of experimentation, the viability and moisture\r\ncontent of Ashwagandha seeds were recorded to be 90.00 ±\r\n2.00% and 7.06 ± 1.72%, respectively. Experimental results on\r\nseedling emergence in different micro-environmental conditions\r\nunder the influence of NaHClO3 are presented in Fig.1. Mean\r\nemergence percentage significantly (P < 0.05) varied between\r\nconditions. Maximum emergence was found in glasshouse\r\ncondition (76.67%) in seeds treated with NaHClO3 for 5-\r\nminutes and minimum in open condition (46.67%) in 10-\r\nminutes’ treatment. As far as the effect of pre-treatment is\r\nconcerned, 5 minutes’ treatment of NaHClO3 significantly\r\nimproved mean emergence percentage in open (66.67% as\r\ncompared to control, 53.33%) and glasshouse (76.67% as\r\ncompared to control, 63.33%) conditions. However, 10-minutes’\r\ntreatment proved inhibitory in these growing conditions.\r\nMean emergence time did not varied significantly between\r\ntreatments and conditions; it ranged between 15 and16 days\r\nin all the treatments and conditions Fig.2.','Rajiv K. Vashistha, Ashish K. Chaturvedi, Jitendra S. Butola and M.C. Nautiyal (2010). Evaluation of emergence and vigour of Ashwagandha (Withania somnifera Dunal) seedlings under the influence of Sodium Hypochlorite (NaHClO3) and different micro-environmental conditions. Biological Forum — An International Journal, 2(1): 30-34. '),(4692,'129','Assessment of floristic diversity in Pooh valley of cold deserts of\r\nDistrict Kinnaur, Himachal Pradesh','R.K. Verma and K.S. Kapoor','9 RK VERMA.pdf','',1,'Assessment of floristic diversity provide basis for devising suitable strategies for conservation of\r\nthe plant resources. Accordingly, a study was conducted to understand the floristic diversity along an altitudinal\r\ngradient with elevations varying from 2700m to 4200m above msl in Pooh area falling in cold desert area of\r\nPooh sub division of district Kinnaur, Himachal Pradesh during 2007. The total number of plant species in this\r\nvalley was 192 belonging to 55 families and 136 genera. The dominant families were Asteraceae, Rosaceae,\r\nLamiaceae and Polygonaceae. The number of tree species at 2700-3200m and 3200-3700m was 13 and 5 with\r\ndominance of Salix alba and Juniperus polycarpos respectively. The number of shrub species was 22, 15 and 11\r\nin the elevation of 2700-3200m, 3200-3700m and 3700-4200m respectively. Rosa webbiana was dominant shrub\r\nat 2700-3200m and 3200-3700m where as Juniperus indica was dominant at 3700-4200m elevation. The number\r\nof herb species was 83, 77 and 72 with the dominance of Artemisia scoparia, Origanum vulgare and Bergenia\r\nstracheyi respectively. The distribution pattern of most of the plant species was contiguous in all the altitudes.\r\nIndex of diversity for herb species was 3.89, 3.86 and 3.81 for 2700-3200m, 3200-3700m and 3700-4200m elevation\r\nranges respectively. The Index of similarity for shrub and herb species between different altitudes was low\r\nindicates remarkable degree of dissimilarity in plant species between different altitudes. Out of 62 medicinal\r\nplant species as recorded from the area, 10 species fall in the category of threatened plants. The better\r\nconservation of natural resources can be well achieved through promotion of community based conservation\r\nstressing in-situ conservation through the establishment of nature reserves and ex-situ conservation through\r\ntissue culture, developing cultivation technologies and nurseries of medicinal plants and conducting regular\r\ntrainings on the procedure of medicinal plants collection, processing amongst the end users/ the local people,\r\ntraders and real stake holders.','-','Assessment of floristic diversity provide basis for devising suitable strategies for conservation of\r\nthe plant resources. Accordingly, a study was conducted to understand the floristic diversity along an altitudinal\r\ngradient with elevations varying from 2700m to 4200m above msl in Pooh area falling in cold desert area of\r\nPooh sub division of district Kinnaur, Himachal Pradesh during 2007. The total number of plant species in this\r\nvalley was 192 belonging to 55 families and 136 genera. The dominant families were Asteraceae, Rosaceae,\r\nLamiaceae and Polygonaceae. The number of tree species at 2700-3200m and 3200-3700m was 13 and 5 with\r\ndominance of Salix alba and Juniperus polycarpos respectively. The number of shrub species was 22, 15 and 11\r\nin the elevation of 2700-3200m, 3200-3700m and 3700-4200m respectively. Rosa webbiana was dominant shrub\r\nat 2700-3200m and 3200-3700m where as Juniperus indica was dominant at 3700-4200m elevation. The number\r\nof herb species was 83, 77 and 72 with the dominance of Artemisia scoparia, Origanum vulgare and Bergenia\r\nstracheyi respectively. The distribution pattern of most of the plant species was contiguous in all the altitudes.\r\nIndex of diversity for herb species was 3.89, 3.86 and 3.81 for 2700-3200m, 3200-3700m and 3700-4200m elevation\r\nranges respectively. The Index of similarity for shrub and herb species between different altitudes was low\r\nindicates remarkable degree of dissimilarity in plant species between different altitudes. Out of 62 medicinal\r\nplant species as recorded from the area, 10 species fall in the category of threatened plants. The better\r\nconservation of natural resources can be well achieved through promotion of community based conservation\r\nstressing in-situ conservation through the establishment of nature reserves and ex-situ conservation through\r\ntissue culture, developing cultivation technologies and nurseries of medicinal plants and conducting regular\r\ntrainings on the procedure of medicinal plants collection, processing amongst the end users/ the local people,\r\ntraders and real stake holders.','Himalayas are one of the largest and youngest mountain\r\nchains in the world and cover roughly 10% of India total\r\nland surface. Variations in terms of its size, climate and\r\naltitudinal ranges have created environments those are\r\nunique and characteristic to this region only. The diverse\r\nclimate and the varied environmental conditions prevailing\r\nin Himalayas support diverse habitat and ecosystems with\r\nequally diverse life forms. The Himalayan region is blessed\r\nwith a wide variety of natural resources including medicinal\r\nplants. It provides an important habitat to the flora and\r\nfauna including 9,000 species of angiosperms and hence, is\r\nconsidered as the hot spot of biodiversity. There are about\r\n3,470 species considered exclusively endemic to the\r\nHimalayas. The cold deserts in India occur in Ladakh region\r\nof Jammu & Kashmir, Spiti valley of Lahaul and Spiti district\r\nand Pooh sub division of Kinnaur district of Himachal\r\nPradesh. The total area under cold deserts in Himachal\r\nPradesh is about 11,000 sq.km., out of which 3,400 sq.km.\r\narea is in Kinnaur district. Human pressure on natural\r\necosystems is intensifying, some being incompatible with\r\nsurvival of certain species of plants.\r\nIn cold desert areas, continuous removal of plant\r\nspecies for various uses and overgrazing by migratory\r\nlivestock have resulted in desertification and loss of\r\nbiodiversity. If these naturally occurring plant resources are\r\nnot timely conserved then they may soon become extinct.\r\nIn cold desert this genetic erosion coupled with soil erosion\r\nmay retard prospects of future economic development and\r\nwelfare of the people. The assessment of plant wealth in\r\nthis harsh cold arid belt may provide a key for its\r\nconservation. Keeping these aspects in view, a study was\r\nundertaken to know the plant diversity in Pooh valley of\r\ncold desert in Kinnaur district of Himachal Pradesh.\r\nMATERIALS AND METHODS\r\nThe present study was conducted in Pooh valley of\r\ncold desert area of Pooh sub division of district Kinnaur,\r\nHimachal Pradesh during, 2008 at an elevation of 2700-4200m.\r\nThe study site was situated 31° 45′ 37.6″ to 31° 46′ 53.4″ N\r\nlatitude and 78° 34′ 54.9″ to 78° 36′ 57.1″ E longitudes. The\r\nwhole area of the valley was divided into four altitudes i.e.,\r\n2700-3200m, 3200-3700m and 3700-4200m for conducting the\r\nphyto-sociological study. Quadrats of size 10 × 10m, 3 × 3m\r\namd 1 × 1m laid out randomly for enumerating trees, shrubs\r\nand herbs + regeneration respectively. The seedlings were\r\nconsidered as herb while saplings as shrubs. The vegetation\r\ndata was analysed for density, frequency and abundance\r\nISSN : 0975-1130\r\nBiological Forum — An International Journal, 2(1): 35-44(2010)\r\n36 Verma and Kapoor\r\naccording to formulas given by Curtis and McIntosh (1950).\r\nThe relative values of density, frequency and dominance\r\nwere summed to get Importance Value Index (IVI) of\r\nindividual species. The abundance to frequency ratio (A/F)\r\nof different species was determined for eliciting the\r\ndistribution pattern. This ratio indicates regular (<0.025),\r\nrandom (0.025 to 0.050) and contiguous (>0.050) distribution\r\n(Curtis and Cottam, 1956). The plant species diversity was\r\ncalculated by using Shanon-Wiener diversity Index (H)\r\n(Shannon-Wiener, 1963).\r\nH =\r\n1\r\n( / )ln( / )\r\nS\r\ni\r\nNi N Ni N\r\n=\r\n−Σ\r\nConcentration of dominance (C) was measured by\r\nSimpson’s Index (Simpson, 1949).\r\nC = 2\r\n1\r\n( / )\r\nS\r\ni\r\nNi N\r\n= Σ\r\nWhere Ni = importance value of species i and N =\r\ntotal importance value of all the species in both the indices.\r\nIndex of similarity and dissimilarity between different\r\naltitudes were calculated by using following formula\r\n(Misra, 1989).\r\nIndex of similarity, S = 2C /A + B\r\nWhere A = number of species in community A, B =\r\nnumber of species in community B, C = number of species\r\ncommon to both communities.\r\nIndex of dissimilarity = 1 - S\r\nRichness Index was estimated as per Margalef (1958)\r\ni.e. R = S – 1/ln N\r\nEvenness Index was calculated as per Hill (1973) i.e.\r\nE = H/ ln S\r\nWhere S = total number of species, N = total number\r\nof individuals of all the species, H = Index of diversity.\r\nRESULTS AND DISCUSSION\r\nIn this valley, total number of plant species was 192\r\nbelonging to 55 families and 136 genera. The dominant\r\nfamilies were Asteraceae, Rosaceae, Lamiaceae and\r\nPolygonaceae. At elevation 2700-3200 m, total number of\r\ntrees species was 13 (Table-1). Salix alba was dominant\r\nspecies having maximum density. This was followed by\r\nPopulus ciliata, Robinia pseudoacacia and Populus alba\r\nin term of density. The frequency was maximum for Populus\r\nciliata followed by Salix alba, Robinia pseudoacacia and\r\nPopulus alba. For a particular species higher frequency\r\nindicated its more frequent distribution at a particular site.\r\nSalix alba recorded highest value in term of IVI (61.83)\r\nfollowed by Populus ciliata (57.87), Populus alba (33.36)\r\nand Robinia Pseudoacacia (30.35). The ratio of abundance\r\nto frequency (A/F) indicates that the distribution pattern of\r\nall the species except Populus alba, P.nigra, P.ciliata,\r\nRobinia pseudoacacia and Salix alba was contiguous.\r\nThe contiguous distribution is the commonest pattern in\r\nnature, random distribution is found in very uniform\r\nenvironment. The general preponderance of contiguous\r\ndistribution in vegetation has been reported by several\r\nworker (Kershaw, 1973; Singh & Yadava, 1974; Kunhikannan\r\net al., 1998).\r\nAmong the 22 species of shrubs including sapling\r\n(Table-2), Rosa webbiana, was the dominant species followed\r\nby Sorbaria tomentosa in term of density and frequency at\r\nelevation of 2700-3200m. In term of abundance, Colutea\r\nnapalensis observed maximum value followed by Lonicera\r\norientalis and Sorbaria tomentosa. Rosa webbiana recorded\r\nthe highest value of IVI (45.91) followed by Sorbaria\r\ntomentosa (34.23) and Salix denticulata (28.05). The\r\ndistribution pattern of all the species was contiguous.\r\nIn case of herb including regeneration, total number of\r\nspecies was 83 at elevation of 2700-3200m (Table-3).\r\nArtemisia scoparia was dominant herb having maximum\r\ndensity followed by Malva rotundifolia, Origanum vulgare\r\nand Erigeron alpinus. The value of abundance was maximum\r\nfor Origanum vulgare followed by Artemisia vestita and\r\nArtemisia scoparia. Artemisia scoparia recorded highest\r\nvalue of IVI (26.08), followed by Malva rotundifolia (22.68),\r\nOriganum vulgare (20.65) and Verbascum thapsus (16.94).\r\nThe ratio of abundance to frequency indicates that the\r\ndistribution pattern for all the species except Artemisia\r\nbrevifolia and Verbascum thapsus was contiguous.\r\nAt 3200-3700m elevation number of tree species was 5\r\n(Table-4). Juniperus polycarpos was dominant tree species\r\nfollowed by Salix alba and Populus ciliata in term of\r\ndensity, frequency and abundance. The value IVI was\r\nhighest for Juniperus polycarpos followed by Salix alba,\r\nPopulus ciliata and Populus alba. The distribution pattern\r\nof all the species except Juniperus polycarpos and Populus\r\nalba was contiguous.\r\nAmong 15 species of shrub including sapling (Table-5),\r\nRosa webbiana was the dominant species in term of density\r\nand frequency. The value of abundance was maximum for\r\nJuniperus indica followed by Ribes alpestre, Juniperus\r\ncommunis and Sorbaria tomentosa. In term of IVI,\r\nRosa webbiana was dominant species followed by Juniperus\r\npolycarpos, Juniperus communis and Cotoneaster\r\nmicrophyllus. The ratio of abundance and frequency\r\nshowed that distribution pattern of all the species was\r\ncontiguous.\r\nIn case of herbs including regeneration, total number\r\nof species was 77 at 3200-3700m elevation (Table-6).\r\nArtemisia brevifolia was dominant herb having maximum\r\ndensity fallowed by Origanum vulgare, Thymus linearis and\r\nNepeta linearis. In term of abundance, Hyssopus officinalis\r\nnoted maximum value fallowed by Sibbaldia parviflora,\r\nArtemisia brevifolia and Artemisia vestita. Origanum\r\nvulgare recorded highest value of IVI (31.26) followed by\r\nArtemisia brevifolia (27.90), Rheum webbianum (13.56) and\r\nThymus linearis (13.09). The distribution patterns of all the\r\nspecies except Rheum webbianum, Stellaria media and\r\nVerbascum thapsus was contiguous.\r\nVerma and Kapoor 37\r\nAt elevation 3700-4200m, total number of shrubs species\r\nwas 11(Table-7). Juniperus indica was dominant species\r\nhaving maximum density, frequency and abundance. This\r\nwas followed by Cotoneaster microphyllus, Rosa webbiana\r\nand Abelia triflora in term of density. Juniperus indica\r\nrecorded highest value of IVI (82.36) followed by\r\nCotoneaster microphyllus (37.58), Juniperus polycarpos\r\n(36.61) and Juniperus communis (33.41). The distribution\r\npattern of all the species was contiguous.\r\nIn case of herbs including regeneration, total number\r\nof species was 72 with the dominance of Stellaria media\r\nin term of density and frequency (Table-8). This was\r\nfollowed by Thymus linearis, Arenaria festucoides and\r\nGalium asperuloides in term of density. The value of\r\nabundance was maximum for Bergenia stracheyi followed\r\nby Arenaria festucoides, Thymus linearis and Polygonum\r\npolystachya. Bergenia stracheyi recorded highest value of\r\nIVI (31.80) followed by Stellaria media (19.21), Rheum\r\nwebbianum (16.61) and Thymus linearis (14.43). The\r\ndistribution pattern of all the species except Verbascum\r\nthapsus was contiguous.\r\nThe value of concentration of dominance (C), index of\r\ndiversity (H), richness index (R) and evenness index (E) for\r\ntrees, shrubs and herbs at different altitudes was given in\r\nTable-9. The higher the value of concentration of dominance,\r\nthe greater is the homogenous nature of the community\r\nand vice- versa. The diversity indices and richness index\r\nwas more in lower elevation indicating higher diversity of\r\nthe species. The evenness index was comparatively more in\r\nlower altitudinal ranges than higher altitudinal ranges\r\nindicating that species are evenly distributed in lower\r\nelevations.\r\nIndex of similarity for shrubs between 2700-3200m and\r\n3200-3700m, between 2700-3200m and 3700-4200m and\r\nbetween 3200-3700m and 3700-4200m was 0.43, 0.30 and 0.69\r\nrespectively whereas, index of dissimilarity for the same was\r\n0.57, 0.70 and 0.31 respectively. This indicating less similarity\r\nof species between these elevations. Index of similarity for\r\nherb species between different altitudes was low as given\r\nin Table-10. This indicating more dissimilarity of species\r\nbetween different altitudes.\r\nPLANTS OF MEDICINAL VALUE\r\nThe important plants of medicinal value found in the\r\nPooh valley of cold desert area in Kinnaur district were\r\ncompiled following Chopra et al (1956), Kirtikar and Basu\r\n(1987) and Kala (2002). These include, Anaphalis\r\ntriplinervis, Arnebia euchroma, Artemisia brevifolia,\r\nArtemisia gmelinii, Astragalus rizanthus, Bergenia stracheyi,\r\nBistorta affinis, Cannabis sativa, Capparis spinosa,','R.K. Verma and K.S. Kapoor (2010). Assessment of floristic diversity in Pooh valley of cold deserts of District Kinnaur, Himachal Pradesh. Biological Forum — An International Journal, 2(1): 35-44. '),(4693,'129','Role of non-timber forest products in the livelihood of tribal\r\ncommunity of Jhabua district (M.P.)','Vijay V. Wagh, Ashok K. Jain and Chitralekha Kadel','10 AK JAIN.pdf','',1,'Jhabua is a predominantly tribal district; living close to forest tribals of this district are totally\r\ndependent on the forest for their daily needs. The role of NTFPs becomes more significant for less agriculture\r\ndependent communities with small land holders residing in remote forests. Collecting and selling of NTFPs is\r\nconsidered as an important way of using vegetation in sustainable manner. Edible and medicinal plants are\r\nprinciple NTFPs. Types, species and amount of NTFPs are different in different seasons and also influenced by\r\nthe location. Thirty nine (39) economically important species utilized by the local people have been recorded\r\nfrom the Jhabua district. The importance of NTFPs collection and trading in local communities has shown\r\ndecreasing trend due to the exotic culture invading in the study region.','Non-timber forest products, livelihood, tribal communities, Jhabua district','Jhabua is a predominantly tribal district; living close to forest tribals of this district are totally\r\ndependent on the forest for their daily needs. The role of NTFPs becomes more significant for less agriculture\r\ndependent communities with small land holders residing in remote forests. Collecting and selling of NTFPs is\r\nconsidered as an important way of using vegetation in sustainable manner. Edible and medicinal plants are\r\nprinciple NTFPs. Types, species and amount of NTFPs are different in different seasons and also influenced by\r\nthe location. Thirty nine (39) economically important species utilized by the local people have been recorded\r\nfrom the Jhabua district. The importance of NTFPs collection and trading in local communities has shown\r\ndecreasing trend due to the exotic culture invading in the study region.','Non-timber forest products (NTFPs) refer to medicinal\r\nplants, food, resin, fiber and others kinds of non timber\r\nproducts collected from the forest (Peters et. al., 1989,\r\nChamberlein et. al., 1998). Gathering NTFPs from local forest\r\nfor getting cash income or used by indigenous people\r\nthemselves can be traced thousands of year ago (Ticktin\r\n2004, Freed 2001). To collect and use NTFPs is a key issue\r\nrelated not only to living standards improvement and\r\ntraditional culture of indigenous people but also\r\nconservation of biodiversity and sustainable development\r\nof concerned regions (Kareiva 1994, Gould et. al., 1998, Baird\r\nand Dearden 2003). Traditional market not only provides a\r\nmajor venue to indigenous people for getting cash income\r\nfrom their produce but also are important sites for spreading\r\ntraditional knowledge on plant use and conservation\r\n(Williams et. al., 2000, Mertz et. al., 2001).\r\nMadhya Pradesh holds highest rank in tribal population\r\nof India. According to 1991 census, the tribal population of\r\nthe state is about 153, 99,034 which accounts 23.27% of the\r\nstate’s total population. There are 46 tribal communities in\r\nthe state divided into more than 100 ethnic groups. The\r\nstate is very rich in biodiversity and ethno-diversity of the\r\ncountry. Forests are inseparable part of the tribals. They are\r\nalmost wholly dependent on forests for food, shelter,\r\nmedicine and clothing. They collect Non Timber Forest\r\nProducts (NTFP’s) like roots, tubers, flowers, fruits, fibers,\r\ngum, resin, dye, tannins, honey and wax etc. to fulfill their\r\nday to day requirements. Very little work has been carried\r\nout on socio-economic aspects of tribal’s for upliftment of\r\ntheir economic status through locally available raw materials\r\nor plant produces through selling of NTFP’s. Some important\r\nstudies from ethnobotanical point of view have been made\r\nat certain places (Bhalla et. al., 1986, Jain 1988, Maheshwari\r\n1990, Maheshwari and Painuli 1990, Sikarwar 1997, 1998,\r\nSingh 1993, Jain 2000, Jain and Patole 2001 and Jain and\r\nVairale 2007).\r\nJhabua district is situated in the western most part of\r\nMadhya-Pradesh. Most of the village inhabitants of Jhabua\r\ndistrict belong to tribal communities. Major part of the\r\ndistrict is covered by dense forest area in which various\r\ntribes like Bheel, Bhilala and Pataya are living in majority.\r\nThe local tribal people are totally dependent on the forest\r\nproducts for their existence. Some sporadic work on floristic\r\nand ethnobotany has been done on Jhabua district by\r\n(Samvatsar and Diwanji 1992, 2004 and Kadel and Jain 2006).\r\nTill date no much work has been done on the economic\r\naspects of NTFPs in the livelihood of tribal community of\r\nJhabua district.\r\nMATERIAL AND METHODS\r\nThorough survey was conducted in different weekly\r\nmarkets of Jhabua district between May 2007 to April 2009.\r\nThe method adopted for collection of information was the\r\ninterview with tribal people and local traders. During the\r\nsurvey background information of the NTFPs peddlers and\r\nconsumers was also gathered. Voucher specimens were also\r\ncollected, identified from published literature and deposited\r\nin the herbarium of School of Studies in Botany, Jiwaji\r\nUniversity, Gwalior. Information as vernacular names, parts\r\nused and market price of the NTFPs was also recorded. The\r\nmain periodic markets in study region were Jhabua, Ranapur,\r\nAlirajpur, Kathhiwada, Bhabhra, Meghnagar, Petlawad,\r\nThandala and Jobat. All the markets are held once in a week\r\nwith a fixed rotation in the same locality.\r\nRESULT AND DISCUSSION\r\nThe present study reveals that a good number of\r\nvillagers have knowledge of exploring NTFPs as about 25%\r\nof their income is generated from the collection of NTFPs\r\nwhile 50% from agriculture and remaining 25% from other\r\nsources. The people in majority prefer to collect the NTFPs\r\nhaving high prices. They obtain tentative prices of the\r\nNTFPs and their market demand from the traders and local\r\n46 Wagh, Jain and Kadel\r\nshopkeepers. It was also observed that mostly poor and\r\nunemployed people collect and sell NTFPs in large\r\nquantities. They retain large part of the produce for their\r\nown use and sell remaining part in the market. The income\r\ngenerated by the sale of NTFPs is utilized for buying clothes,\r\nsalts and other necessary items. The collectors mostly\r\nrecognize NTFPs by leaves, flowers or by smelling.\r\nAccording to them, now a days, the NTFPs are not easily\r\navailable in the forests. The collectable quantity of NTFPs\r\nis decreasing day by day as compared to past years.\r\nThirty nine (39) medicinally and otherwise important\r\nspecies utilized by the local people have been recorded from\r\nthe Jhabua district. Out of theses plant species tree forms\r\nare found to be dominant with (18) eighteen species,\r\nfollowed by herbs, shrubs, and climbers with (7) seven\r\nspecies each. Medicinal plants like Asparagus racemosus,\r\nCelastrus paniculatus, Chlorophytum borivilianum, Costus\r\nspeciosus, Helectres isora, Ocimum canum, Schelcheria\r\noleosa, Vernonia anthelmia, Abrus precatorius, Mucuna\r\npruriens, Phyllanthus emblica and Wrightia tinctoria are\r\nvery well known for their medicinal value.\r\nIn the study region the trading process is still keeping\r\na traditional style. There are a limited number of species\r\ncollectors and sellers usually do not bother about accurate\r\nquantification of their NTFPs. Their aim is only to get\r\nexpected returns, so the sellers can finish the trading process\r\neasily without any tool such as weights and balances.\r\nDifferent kinds of NTFPs are available seasonally Table 1.\r\nThe stalls or temporary shops selling NTFPs happen to be\r\nmore in Alirajpur followed by Jhabua, Katthiwada, Ranapur,\r\nBhabhra and Jobat.','Vijay V. Wagh, Ashok K. Jain and Chitralekha Kadel (2010). Role of non-timber forest products in the livelihood of tribal community of Jhabua district (M.P.). Biological Forum — An International Journal, 2(1): 45-48. '),(4694,'129','Study on fungal associates of Aesculus indica','Anand Sagar and Rupinder Kaur','11_Anand.pdf','',1,'Studies conducted to find the fungal associates of Aesculus indica revealed the presence of 20\r\nspecies of fungi belonging to 11 genera (Absidia, Aspergillus, Cladosporium, Fusarium, Gliocladium, Myrothecium,\r\nOedocephalum, Penicillium, Trichoderma, Trematostroma and non sporulating mycelium) from its rhizosphere.\r\nTwenty three species of VAM fungal spores belonging to four genera (Acaulospora, Entrophospora, Gigaspora and\r\nGlomus) were isolated from the mycorrhizosphere soil of this plant. Four species of endophytic fungi were\r\nisolated from roots, leaves and bark samples of this plant. Percentage of root infection and percentage of VAM\r\nspores isolated from the root adhering soil samples of Aesculus indica was found to be 70% and 57% respectively.\r\nFurther the effect of these fungal associates on the growth and development and artificial regeneration of this\r\nthreatened plant is being investigated.','Mycorrhiza, Rhizosphere, VAM, Endophytes.','Studies conducted to find the fungal associates of Aesculus indica revealed the presence of 20\r\nspecies of fungi belonging to 11 genera (Absidia, Aspergillus, Cladosporium, Fusarium, Gliocladium, Myrothecium,\r\nOedocephalum, Penicillium, Trichoderma, Trematostroma and non sporulating mycelium) from its rhizosphere.\r\nTwenty three species of VAM fungal spores belonging to four genera (Acaulospora, Entrophospora, Gigaspora and\r\nGlomus) were isolated from the mycorrhizosphere soil of this plant. Four species of endophytic fungi were\r\nisolated from roots, leaves and bark samples of this plant. Percentage of root infection and percentage of VAM\r\nspores isolated from the root adhering soil samples of Aesculus indica was found to be 70% and 57% respectively.\r\nFurther the effect of these fungal associates on the growth and development and artificial regeneration of this\r\nthreatened plant is being investigated.','The benefits of vesicular arbuscular mycorrhizal (VAM)\r\nfungi in forest and agricultural ecosystems are widely\r\nrecognized. VAM fungi play a key role in uptake and\r\ntranslocation of phosphorus from soil beyond the root zone\r\nof absorption through proliferation of their hyphae\r\n(Lakshman et. al., 2006). The distribution of species of VAM\r\nfungi varies with climate and edaphic factors. Similarly\r\npresence of fungi in the rhizosphere of plants is useful to\r\nplants due to their significance as phosphorus solubilizers\r\nand producer of plant growth promoting hormones (Garrett,\r\n1956). One more group of fungi which colonise the aerial\r\ntissues of plants without causing any noticeable symptoms\r\nis known as endophytic fungi. They represent one of the\r\nlargest reservoirs of fungal species (Dreyfuss, 1989) and are\r\nrecognized as a repository of unique bioactive metabolites\r\nand anticancer drugs (Li et. al., 1998).\r\nA review of work on microbial associates of different\r\nplants revealed that there are many reports of work (Gupta\r\nand Mukerji, 2001; Maheshwari;2005; Manoharachary et\r\nal.2005;) on plants like Terminalia arjuna and Emblica\r\nofficinalis (Thapar et. al., 1992), and Dalbergia ratifolia\r\n(Suryanarayanan and Rajagopal, 2000); Azadirachata indica\r\n(Rajagopal and Suryanarayanan,2000), Ocimum species\r\n(Gupta et. al., 2000); Black pepper (Anandraj et. al., 2006);\r\nSantalum album (Mohan et. al., 1998) But studies on fungal\r\nassociates of an important medicinal plant Aesculus indica\r\nof N.W. Himalayan region remain scarce. Hence the present\r\nwork was taken on Aesculus indica and the results are\r\npresented in this communication.\r\nMATERIALS AND METHODS\r\nAesculus indica Colebr. belongs to family\r\nHippocastanaceae, it is a common tree in Western Himalaya\r\nfrom Nepal westwards, occurring chiefly at 4000-9000 ft.\r\n(Troup, 1986). It is mainly distributed in Kashmir, Kullu,\r\nShimla and Chamba in Himachal Pradesh, Tehri,Garhwal and\r\nKumaon in Uttar Pradesh; and Pakistan (Peshawar, Hazara,\r\nBaluchistan) (Rastogi and Mehrotra, 1991). Its English names\r\nare ‘Himalayan Chestnut’ and ‘Indian Horse Chestnut’.\r\nSeed oil of Aesculus Indica exhibit antiseptic activity\r\nagainst human pathogenic bacteria and phytopathogenic\r\nfungi (Bakshi, et. al., 1999) In some parts of Himachal\r\nPradesh, the seeds are dried and ground into flour. This\r\nflour is bitter and used for making halwa. The fruits are\r\nused as a medicine for animals as well as for human beings.\r\nThey are also fed to cattle after steeping them in water. The\r\nleaves are lopped and used as a fodder for cattle. The wood\r\nis easily worked and used for making water-troughs,\r\npacking-cases, tea-boxes, decoration articles, etc. Fruits are\r\ngiven in colic pains and also diuretic. Oil from the seeds is\r\nused in rheumatism and roots are used for leucorrhoea.\r\nLeaves contain flavones, â- sitosterol, palmitone (Farooq,\r\n2005).\r\nQuantitative estimation of rhizosphere fungi isolated from\r\nsoil samples\r\nFor isolation of soil mycoflora, dilution plate method of\r\nWakesman (1927) and Warcup (1950) was followed. The\r\nmedia used for culturing the rhizosphere fungi was Potato\r\nDextrose Agar (Rawling, 1933). Fungal isolates from the\r\nrhizosphere were identified following Nagmani et. al., (2006).\r\nMethodology for VAM Spores Isolation:\r\n“Wet Sieving and Decanting Technique” (Gerdeman and\r\nNicolson, 1963) was used for isolation of VAM spores\r\n.Percentage of VAM spores was calculated by screening\r\n100 gm of soil for the presence of these spores. The criteria\r\nemployed for identification were colour, size, shape, wall\r\ncharacteristics, contents and surface ornamentation of\r\nspores, nature of spores, the number and arrangement of\r\nspores in sporocarp.VAM fungal spores were identified\r\nfollowing Manoharachary (2004) and Trappe(1982).VAM\r\ninfection in roots was assessed by following the method of\r\nPhillips and Hayman (1970). Percent colonization of VAM\r\nStudy on fungal associates of Aesculus indica\r\nAnand Sagar and Rupinder Kaur\r\nDepartment of Bio-Sciences, Himachal Pradesh University, Summer Hill, Shimla (HP) INDIA\r\nABSTRACT : Studies conducted to find the fungal associates of Aesculus indica revealed the presence of 20\r\nspecies of fungi belonging to 11 genera (Absidia, Aspergillus, Cladosporium, Fusarium, Gliocladium, Myrothecium,\r\nOedocephalum, Penicillium, Trichoderma, Trematostroma and non sporulating mycelium) from its rhizosphere.\r\nTwenty three species of VAM fungal spores belonging to four genera (Acaulospora, Entrophospora, Gigaspora and\r\nGlomus) were isolated from the mycorrhizosphere soil of this plant. Four species of endophytic fungi were\r\nisolated from roots, leaves and bark samples of this plant. Percentage of root infection and percentage of VAM\r\nspores isolated from the root adhering soil samples of Aesculus indica was found to be 70% and 57% respectively.\r\nFurther the effect of these fungal associates on the growth and development and artificial regeneration of this\r\nthreatened plant is being investigated.\r\nKeywords : Mycorrhiza, Rhizosphere, VAM, Endophytes.\r\nBiological Forum — An International Journal, 2(1): 49-52(2010) ISSN : 0975-1130\r\n50 Sagar and Kaur\r\nwas calculated by counting infected and uninfected segments\r\nusing the formula.\r\n% of colonization =\r\nNumber of root segments\r\ninfected by VAM fungi\r\nTotal number of segments\r\n× 100\r\nFungal Endophytes were isolated from the root, leaf\r\nand bark samples of Aesculus Indica by following three\r\nstep method of Suryanarayanan and Rajagopal. (2000). These\r\nwere identified by following Nagmani et. al., (2006).\r\nRESULTS\r\nRhizosphere fungi Isolated from the root adhering soil\r\nsamples of Aesculus indica\r\n20 species of fungi were isolated from the soil samples\r\ncollected from the vicinity of roots of Aesculus indica. These\r\nisolates fall into 11 genera (i.e., Absidia, Aspergillus,\r\nCladosporium, Cunninghamella, Fusarium, Gliocladium,\r\nMyrothecium, Penicillium, Trematostroma and\r\nTrichoderma). One non-sporulating mycelium was also\r\nisolated Table 1.\r\nThe genus Aspergillus was represented by 3 species\r\n(i.e., A. flavus, A. niger and A. versicolor), the genera\r\nAbsidia (A. ramose), Cladosporium (C. oxysporum),\r\nCunninghamella (C. elegans), Gliocladium sp.1 and\r\nTrematostroma sp. were represented by one species each.\r\nGenus Fusarium and Myrothecium were represented by 2\r\nspecies each (i.e., F. moniliforme, F. solani, M. roridum and\r\nMyrothecium sp.). The genus Trichoderma was represented\r\nby 3 species (i.e., T. pseudokoningii, Trichoderma sp. and\r\nT. viride). The genus Penicillium was represented by 4\r\nspecies (i.e., P. chrysogenum, P.citrinum, P. notatum and P.\r\npurpurogenum). One non-sporulating mycelium was also\r\nisolated Table 1.\r\nA comparison of seasonal distribution of these isolates\r\nrevealed that maximum number of fungi were recorded (8\r\nspecies each) during rainy season (40%), 7 species in spring\r\nseason (35%), 6 species in winter season (30%) followed by\r\n5 species (25%) in summer season Table 1.','Anand Sagar and Rupinder Kaur (2010). Study on fungal associates of Aesculus indica. Biological Forum — An International Journal, 2(1): 49-52. '),(4695,'129','Antifungal activity of plant products against Aspergillus niger: A\r\npotential application in the control of a spoilage fungus','Shubhi Avasthi, Ajay K. Gautam and Rekha Bhadauria','12 SHUBHI.pdf','',1,'Eight commonly used spices Syzygium aromaticum, Cinnamonum zeylanicum, Zingiber officinale, Murraya\r\nkoenigii, Piper nigrum, Trachyspermum ammi, Allium sativum and Allium cepa were tested for in vitro antifungal\r\nactivity on Aspergillus niger, a causative agent of different destructive disease. Out of eight plant materials used,\r\nfive showed significant antifungal activity against the test pathogen by poisoned food technique. Syzygium\r\naromaticum and Allium sativum showed 100% inhibition of mycelial growth at 20% concentration. Results of the\r\npresent investigation indicates that spices possess antifungal activity and can be exploited as natural fungitoxicant\r\nto control the growth of storage or spoilage fungi, A. niger and thus reduce the dependence on the synthetic\r\nfungicides.','A. niger, Antifungal activity, aqueous extracts, spices','Eight commonly used spices Syzygium aromaticum, Cinnamonum zeylanicum, Zingiber officinale, Murraya\r\nkoenigii, Piper nigrum, Trachyspermum ammi, Allium sativum and Allium cepa were tested for in vitro antifungal\r\nactivity on Aspergillus niger, a causative agent of different destructive disease. Out of eight plant materials used,\r\nfive showed significant antifungal activity against the test pathogen by poisoned food technique. Syzygium\r\naromaticum and Allium sativum showed 100% inhibition of mycelial growth at 20% concentration. Results of the\r\npresent investigation indicates that spices possess antifungal activity and can be exploited as natural fungitoxicant\r\nto control the growth of storage or spoilage fungi, A. niger and thus reduce the dependence on the synthetic\r\nfungicides.','Fungal contamination of stored commodities is a very\r\nserious problem in tropical warm regions of the world.\r\nContamination by storage fungi and their mycotoxins is of\r\ngreat concern in herbal drug and food industry. Fungi,\r\nespecially the species of Aspergillus and Penicillium are\r\namong the major reported genera having the ability to\r\nproduce mycotoxins during storage (Gautam and Bhadauria,\r\n2008; 2009). These fungi producing related mycotoxins reduce\r\nthe quality of food products and the medicinal potential of\r\nherbal drugs. In previous reports, A. niger (commonly known\r\nas black Aspergilli), was recorded as a most dominating\r\nfungal species to be associated with herbal drugs during\r\nstorage (Bugno et. al., 2006, Gautam and Bhadauria, 2008;\r\n2009). A. niger is a saprophytic and filamentous fungus\r\nfound in soil, forage, organic debris and food product,\r\ncausing black mould of onion, Shallot; stem rot of Dracaena;\r\nroot stalk rot of Sansevieria; and boll rot of Cotton; spoilage\r\nof cashew kernels, dates, figs, vanilla pods and dried prune\r\n(Bobbarala et. al., 2009).\r\nThe use of chemical pesticides is a very popular practice\r\nto control various plant diseases management as compare\r\nto natural one which are prepared from plants or plant parts.\r\nBut, consumer now demands less use of synthetic fungicides\r\ndue to the non-biodegradability, pollutive nature and residual\r\ntoxicities of chemical pesticides. Several studies have revealed\r\nthe plant extracts as source of natural pesticides that make\r\nexcellent efforts for new pesticide development (Arokiyaraj\r\net. al., 2008; Gangadevi et. al., 2008; Brindha et. al., 2009).\r\nSince, many spices and herbs have been used for\r\ncenturies as preservatives for foods and medicinal purposes,\r\nsome of them possess antimicrobial potential in combination\r\nand is considered as alternatives to conventional\r\nantimicrobial agents especially in this era of antimicrobial\r\ndrug resistance (Nwaopara et. al., 2009).\r\nThe preservative actions of herbs and spices have\r\nreceived much attention in the literature where studies have\r\nbeen reported and showed that mycotoxin-producing molds\r\nmay be inhibited by some herbs and spices. They generally\r\nproduce many secondary metabolites such as alkaloid,\r\nflavonoids, tannins and phenolic compounds which are the\r\nimportant sources of microbicides, pesticides and many\r\npharmaceutical drugs (Mahesh and Satish, 2008). Therefore,\r\nthe main objective of this study was to evaluate the\r\nantifungal efficacy of commonly used spices against the\r\ngrowth of A. niger.\r\nMATERIAL AND METHODS\r\nA. Plant material\r\nIn the present study, eight commonly used spices of\r\ndifferent families have been selected to analyze their\r\neffectiveness on the growth of A. niger Table 1.','Shubhi Avasthi, Ajay K. Gautam and Rekha Bhadauria (2010). Antifungal activity of plant products against Aspergillus niger: A potential application in the control of a spoilage fungus. Biological Forum — An International Journal, 2(1): 53-55. '),(4696,'125','Impact of Plastic Mulching on Biometric Parameters of Tomato Crop (Solanum lycopersicum): A Meta-analysis','Gottam Kishore*, B. Maheswara Babu and Mattaparthi Lakshmi Durga','6 Impact of Plastic Mulching on Biometric Parameters of Tomato Crop Solanum lycopersicum A Meta-analysis Gottam Kishore.pdf','',1,'Plastic mulching helps for moisture retention, maintenance of soil temperatures and weed control. However, comparative research on how mulched drip irrigation impacts tomato crop growth and regulates the link between plant biometric data have been restricted. Hence trials were carried out on an experimental farm at UAS-Raichur to evaluate the precision of irrigation water for tomato production using different coloured plastic mulches and various irrigation levels: without mulch (control), white on black plastic mulch, silver on black plastic mulch and black plastic mulch on plant height, the number of branches per plant and leaf area index (LAI) under varied drip watering levels in combination with irrigation levels. The experiment was laid out in a split-plot design with sixteen treatments and three replications. Observations were recorded on various parameters related to growth and yield. Drip irrigation levels and plastic colour mulches substantially influenced tomato growth components such as plant height, number of branches per plant and leaf area index. When drip irrigation at 80 per cent ET with white on black plastic colour mulch was used, the maximum plant height (94.15 cm), number of branches per plant (19.17) and highest leaf area index (2.85) were observed when compared to other treatments in the experiment. From the above-mentioned investigations, it can be concluded that white on black plastic colour mulch with 80 per cent of ET irrigation water requirement is best in areas of high-temperature regions.','Plastic mulching, moisture retention, precision irrigation, drip, growth','With increased water demand and fears of water scarcity, increasing production per unit of water used is more vital than ever. The use of plastic mulch, a rise in soil temperature and a reduction in moisture loss were all factors in the tomato crop\'s increased benefits. Mulching was more expensive, but the increased yield more than offset the increased cost. Drip irrigation has been a more successful irrigation approach in enhancing tomato crop output, especially when combined with white on black plastic mulch. Different soil mulches have different effects on plant development, depending on the growing season.','INTRODUCTION\r\nAgriculture is the world\'s greatest water user, accounting for 70per cent of total use (Qin et al., 2016). Rain-fed (non-irrigated) agriculture covers 8 per cent of global cropland, producing 60–70 per cent of the world\'s food (Chen et al., 2014). Rain-fed agriculture is becoming increasingly important in the global food supply as a result of the growing water deficit (Li et al., 2017). Global warming and erratic rainfall patterns, on the other hand, are to blame for the scarcity of water resources that limit agricultural production in arid and semi-arid countries (Qin et al., 2015). With its capacity to offer little and frequent water applications directly in plant root zone areas, drip irrigation has piqued researchers\' interest here to reduce water consumption and a potential increase in production (Darwish et al., 2003; Janat, 2003). Drip irrigation has been shown to save 30 to 50 per cent of irrigation water while increasing crop output by 15 to 20per cent (Pramod et al., 2022). As the world relies on irrigated land production, irrigated agriculture faces major difficulties that jeopardize its viability. It is important to use water efficiently and bring more land under irrigation using available water resources. As a result, conserving soil moisture through mulching could be an effective way to save water while increasing dryland farming production. \r\nIn recent years, notably in vegetable cultivation, plastic film has been the primary material used for soil mulching (Steinmetz et al., 2016). Mulching is a water-saving practice that conserves soil moisture, regulates temperature, and reduces soil evaporation in dryland environments (Yang et al., 2015). In rain-fed farming systems, surface mulching is commonly used as a water conservation measure (Zribi et al., 2015). Plastic sheet mulch is more effective than wheat straw mulch at conserving soil water (Li et al., 2013). Mulching\'s key advantage is that it conserves soil moisture by minimizing surface evaporation and preventing soil erosion (Qin et al., 2016). Mulched drip irrigation is a common water-saving irrigation technology that can improve water resource utilization efficiency in arid areas. The change in irrigation method affects the growth of the crop root system and then regulates the growth of aboveground organs (Wang et al., 2020). Mulching conserves soil water by minimizing evaporation and controlling soil temperature, lowering irrigation demand during crop cultivation periods (Kader et al., 2017). Plastic mulching has become a widely used agricultural practice due to the immediate economic benefits it provides, such as increased yields, earlier harvests, improved fruit quality, and reduced water use. Different types and colours viz. black, green, yellow, blue, grey and red plastic mulch have characteristics optical properties that change the levels of light radiation reaching the soil, causing increases or decreases in the soil temperature and moisture (Zahed et al., 2021). However, both from an environmental and agronomic standpoint, understanding of the long-term viability of plastic mulching is lacking. Mulching has a critical impact as a water-saving practice in rain-fed crop production to minimize water stress in agriculture. It is primarily crucial for retaining soil moisture, regulating soil temperature and minimizing soil evaporation, all of which have an impact on crop productivity. Mulching has several strategic implications for the soil ecosystem, crop growth and climate. Even mulch insulates the soil, assisting in the creation of beautiful and protected landscapes by providing a barrier from cold and hot temperatures. This research has gathered a wealth of knowledge about plastic mulch materials as well as their use in crop cultivation. \r\nWe investigate the impact of plastic mulching and irrigation levels on tomato biometric parameters as a function of environmental circumstances. We chose tomato as a test crop because of its worldwide importance and varied reactions to climatic variables. Tomato (Solanum lycopersicum L.) is a globally important vegetable that is commercially grown on all continents (Sun et al., 2014).Tomatoes are an important part of the world\'s diet because they contain high levels of lycopene and minerals, which are beneficial to human health (Perveen et al., 2015). A thorough and quantitative study of the effects of mulching may help to close yield gaps between feasible and actual crop yields and better guide practitioners.\r\nMATERIAL AND METHODS\r\nDuring Rabi, the experiment was carried out at the College of Agricultural Engineering in Raichur (October 2015 to September 2016). Raichur lies in Karnataka\'s Region 1\'s Zone II, which is in the north-eastern dry zone. This location is located at 16 15\' N latitude and 77 20\' E longitude, at an elevation of 389 meters above mean sea level (MSL). The split-plot field experiment included three replications with four main treatments and four sub treatments. There are 16 beds in each experimental plot, I1- Water application at 60 per cent ET using drip irrigation, I2- Water application at 80 per cent ET using drip irrigation, and I3-Water application at 100 per cent ET using drip irrigation I4- Water application at 120 per cent ET using drip irrigation and sub treatments were M0- Without mulch (control), M1- White on black plastic mulch, M2– Silver on black plastic mulch and M3– Black plastic mulch were the major treatments.\r\nThe experimental field has clay textured soil and a pH of 7.9 and good electrical conductivity of 0.98 dS m-1. Sowing was done on a bed of 5 m long and 1.0 m width rows. Surface drip irrigation was used for the experiment. Laying was done manually with on and off valves fixed for each bed. Healthy seedlings were transplanted onto the well-prepared experimental plots after approximately three weeks. The treatment combinations were used to sow a single seedling. Plant protection measures were implemented following the tomato crop\'s recommended package of actions. For evaluating several characteristics such as growth, blooming, quality characters, root parameter, and yield, the following observations were made at intervals of 30, 60, 90, and 120 days after transplanting on five randomly tagged competitive plants from each plot of each replication.\r\nWith the use of a meter scale, the height of the plant was measured from the bottom to the top at 30, 60, 90, and 120 days after transplanting, height of the plants was measured (DAT). Five plants were randomly tagged in each treatment to track the number of branches after transplantation. The leaf area index was calculated by dividing the leaf area per plant by the plant\'s land area.\r\n \r\nRESULTS AND DISCUSSIONS\r\nIn terms of the interaction impact (Table 1), the maximum plant height of 94.15 cm was reported under drip irrigation at 80per cent ET with white on black plastic colour mulch during the growing period, when compared to other treatments. Many studies have reported that plastic mulch increases the yield of many vegetables, such as eggplant (Adamczewska-Sowinska et al., 2016), potatoes (Li et al., 2018), and tomatoes (Rahman et al., 2016; Kundu et al., 2019).In the interaction effect (Table 2), most branches were recorded under drip irrigation at 80 per cent ET with white on black plastic colour mulch (19.17), followed by 80 per cent ET with silver on black plastic colour mulch (19.18). The enhanced plant height and a maximum number of branches under this treatment could be attributed to a combination of better moisture content (Zhong-kui Xie et al., 2005), higher biosynthesis, and optimal nutrient uptake at the right soil temperature. Similar results have been reported for maize (Haque et al., 2018; Yin et al., 2019 and by Paul et al. (2013) crops. Table 3 shows the LAI interaction impact for drip irrigation at 80 per cent ET with white on black plastic colour mulch (3.01 at 90 DAT), followed by 100 per cent ET with silver on black plastic colour mulch (3.01 at 90 DAT) (2.83 at 90 DAT). This could owe to adequate soil moisture and a favourable microclimate around the plant, as well as increased photosynthetic radiation and better light dispersion, all of which aided photosynthetic activity. Second, greater plant metabolism and auxin production appear to contribute to overall plant growth and development. For a long time, vegetative growth keeps pace with reproductive growth (Wang and Yin 2015). The results are also in good agreement with the findings of Stephen et al. (2015).\r\n','Gottam Kishore, B. Maheswara Babu and Mattaparthi Lakshmi Durga (2022). Impact of Plastic Mulching on Biometric Parameters of Tomato Crop (Solanum lycopersicum): A Meta-analysis. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 14(2): 31-34.'),(4697,'129','Evaluation of fungicides against phyllosphere mycoflora of foliage\r\nplants','Shahnaz Jamil and Manish Kumar','13 SHEHNAZ.pdf','',1,'Five fungicides representative of sulphur group were selected for evaluation of controlling mycelial\r\ngrowth against the fungal forms present on the phyllosphere. Firstly the study was made to screen a range of\r\nfungicides for their ability to inhibit mycelial growth of pathogens in vitro, secondly the aim was to determine\r\nthe efficacy of some of these fungicides against four Fusarium sps. found in the phyllosphere of foliage plants. All\r\nthe fungicides were tested for efficacy against the isolates cultured on the solid PDA’s medium and Richard’s\r\nliquid medium. Study also focused on the effect of experimental fugicides carbendazim and selected anlongs\r\nagainst specific phyllosphere fungi. Physical parameters are used for suppression of fungal spores germination\r\nand effect of mycelial growth of F. pallidospermum in order to develop standarised conditions that were required\r\nin invitro fungicides evolutions. These fungicides had not been for activity against Fusarium sps.','Fungicides, Mycelial growth, phyllosphere, Fasarium sps','Five fungicides representative of sulphur group were selected for evaluation of controlling mycelial\r\ngrowth against the fungal forms present on the phyllosphere. Firstly the study was made to screen a range of\r\nfungicides for their ability to inhibit mycelial growth of pathogens in vitro, secondly the aim was to determine\r\nthe efficacy of some of these fungicides against four Fusarium sps. found in the phyllosphere of foliage plants. All\r\nthe fungicides were tested for efficacy against the isolates cultured on the solid PDA’s medium and Richard’s\r\nliquid medium. Study also focused on the effect of experimental fugicides carbendazim and selected anlongs\r\nagainst specific phyllosphere fungi. Physical parameters are used for suppression of fungal spores germination\r\nand effect of mycelial growth of F. pallidospermum in order to develop standarised conditions that were required\r\nin invitro fungicides evolutions. These fungicides had not been for activity against Fusarium sps.','Fungicides have become more popular these days.\r\nEveryday some new fungicides are being introduced and\r\nevaluated in the various plant pathological laboratories. Their\r\napplication in the practical fields can only be suggested\r\nagainst the virulent pathogens after a successful laboratory\r\nevaluation. It therefore, needs a constant watch and effort\r\nto evolve new fungicides along with some important nonchemical\r\nmethods of controlling the diseases. A primary\r\nstudy with different fungicides was made to evaluate them\r\nin laboratory against all the fungal forms. The most effective\r\nfungicides were also considered to be used as pre-inoculation\r\nand post-incoluation dip treatment against the fungi.\r\nBasically fungicides are chemical compounds or biological\r\norganism use to kill or inhibit mycelial growth or fungal\r\nspore. The most common active ingredient is sulphur,\r\npresent at 0.08% in weaker concentration and as high as 0.5\r\nto 1.5% for more potent fungicides. A fungicide must be\r\nco-exist with the cells of the living tissue and must exhibit a\r\nselectivity which discriminates between the living tissue of\r\nthe host and of the pathogen (Crowdy, 1970). The selectively\r\nis measured inturnof a therapeutic index. Therapeutic index\r\nis calculated by the dividing the minimum curative dose by\r\nthe maximum tolereated (by host) dose. However, a single\r\ntherapeutic index is assigned to each therapeutant due to\r\ndifferent susceptibilities of the different plant parts to the\r\ntoxic damage (Diamond, 1962).\r\nThe fungicides are also apply to the aerial parts of the\r\nplant to control an air borne epidemic which usually develop\r\nrapidly. The applications are made according to the pre\r\ndetermine schedule so as to cover all potentially infective\r\nparts of the plant. Systemic fungicide by virtue of\r\npenetration and improved distribution suffer less surface\r\nweathering and consequently so better disease control\r\n(Evans, 1971).\r\nA fungicide frequently is given different names by\r\ndifferent commercial firms. It becomes, therefore, very difficult\r\nfor a person working with a fungicides to remember these\r\nnames and also to try to find out the active inredients\r\npresent in commercial formulations. The carbamet (organic\r\nsulpher) fungicides form a very important group among\r\nfungicides. Most of these are foliage fungicides, while some\r\nare used for soil and seed treatment, Tisdale, and Flenner,\r\n(1942) first demonstrated the fungicidal possibilities of the\r\ncarbonates in 1931 in the laboratories of E.I. Du Pont\r\ncompany, the U.S.A. but the commercial production started\r\nabout a decade later.\r\nMATERIALS AND METHODS\r\nThe vital role of fungicides have been enriching the\r\nvarious disciplines of plant pathology. Its role in modernizing\r\nthe agriculture in India has been with in great detail by\r\nMehta (1971). For the last six decades, production of new\r\nfungicides and their application has gained considerable\r\nmomentum. The more virulent fungal pathogen are posing a\r\nchallenge and therefore, there is a constant need to evolve\r\nnew and more efficient fungicides. According to the latest\r\ninformation available, about 200 fungicides are in the world\r\nmarket and many more are under test and trial.\r\nDue to the higher cost of chemicals, the cost of\r\nproduction of various fungicides is also increasing. It is\r\ntherefore, essential that wastage is avoided and the\r\nperformance is evaluated in the laboratory before being\r\nadvised for field trial. The precision of the more highly\r\nstandardized laboratory test is greater between the laboratory\r\ntests and the field tests. So, it is essential to screen out the\r\nefficiency of the fungicides in the laboratory.\r\nA standardized method for evaluating protectant\r\nchemicals was suggested in 1943 by a committee on\r\nstandardization of the fungicidal test of the American\r\nISSN : 0975-1130\r\nBiological Forum — An International Journal, 2(1): 56-59(2010)\r\nJamil and Kumar 57\r\nphytopathological society (committee on standardization of\r\nfungicides test 1943). The method involves application of\r\nfungicides to chemically clean glass slide by means of a\r\nprecision technique such as settling tower or horizontal\r\nsprayer. For this purpose we used glasswares were\r\nchemically cleaned and stored in dustproof condition. They\r\nwere also cleaned with potassium dichromate sulphuric acid\r\ncleaning solution followed by washing in clean distilled\r\nwater. This is then suitably sterilized and stored for later\r\nuse. The glass slides used are the standared (x1”) size.\r\nA standared solid Potato Dextrose Medium and liquid\r\nRichard’s medium are used. Potato Dextrose Agar Medium\r\nwas prepared in flask and sterilized. To this medium was\r\nadded the requisite quantity of fungicide (Mancozeb). So\r\nas to get certain final concentration. A series of concentration\r\nwas prepared. The fungicide was thoroughly mixed by\r\nstirring. The medium was then poured into petriplates and\r\nstored in the refrigerator till required. A culture of the test\r\nfungus was grown on PDA for a certain period (generally 7\r\ndays) at the optimum temperature for growth. Small disc\r\n(0.7 cm) of the centre was out with a sterilized cork borer\r\nand transferred asoptically in the centre of a petridish\r\ncontraining the medium with a certain amount of fungicides.\r\nSuitable checks kept where the culture disc are grown under\r\nthe same condition on PDA without fungicides. The fungus\r\ncolony diameter measured every 24 hours. The colony\r\ndiameter, compared with check, has taken as a measured of\r\nfungi toxicity. Same process was repeated for other\r\nfungicides i.e., Carbendazim, Ziram, Thiram, Maneb, for\r\nobserving different fungus growth.\r\nThe data obtained on the effect of different\r\nconcentration of the test chemical on the germination or on\r\ngrowth were plotted on a graph-paper to obtain a dosage\r\nresponse curve (DR curves). The dosage response curve\r\ngraph papers either on ordinary graph paper, semi-log paper\r\non log problem graph papers. Usually for DR cruves ordinary\r\ngraph papers are used and hence not suitable for statistical\r\nanalysis.\r\nFrequently however relative fungi toxicity was measured\r\nas the minimum concentration at which no growth or\r\ngermination was obtained. This is called minimum inhibitory\r\nconcentration (m.i.c.).\r\nLiquid medium such as Richard’s medium was also\r\nused for observing effecting of fungicides in vitro. Isolates\r\nfrom any fungus which grow well on a liquid can be used\r\nas the test fungus were kept at suitable temperature for\r\nincubation of the rating has done on 1-10 scale (Gottlieto\r\net. al., 1950) or the actual dry weight of the fungus has\r\ntaken after filtering the liquid out. The data which were\r\nobserved in the present study are based on different\r\nconcentration of fungicides and five different incubation\r\nperiod. After incubation at 25 ± 1°C for 4 days in an\r\nalternate light and dark regime of 12 hrs. growth inhibition\r\nof the pathogens is calculated.\r\nRESULT\r\nIn the present course of investigation fungal forms\r\nisolated fromthe phyllosphere of (05) foliage plants were as\r\nfollows : 10 on Agaloenema pictum, 11 on Diffenbechia picta,\r\n11 on Dracaena marignata, 12 on Maranta cherrymeri and 11\r\non Sensieviera trifasicata which were evaluated by five\r\ndifferent types of fungicides viz., Carbendazim, Mancozeb,\r\nManeb, Thiram and Ziram at three different concentration in\r\nvitro. The efficacy of fungicides was tested by challenging\r\nselected fungal form (Fusarium sps.) of phyllosphere fungi\r\nin vitro using conc. of 0.5%, 1.0% and 1.5% of fungicides.\r\nFrom the comparative study of mycelial growth in the\r\ntwo medium (i.e., liquid and solid medium) in table iit is\r\nclear that the rate of growth was higher in 10 days for all\r\nthe four sps. Fusarium (viz., F. equset, F. moniliformae, F.\r\npallidospermum and F. solan). In 5 days the rate of mycelial\r\ngrowth was low in comparison to 10 days on both the\r\nmedium. The minimum growth was observed in 15 ddays\r\nfor all 4 sps. of Fusarium.\r\nThus from the observation given in the Table 1 it is\r\nquite clear that the dry weight of mycelium were maximum\r\nin 10 days. On the contrary the dry weight of mycelium\r\nwere minimum in 15 days and in 5 days the weight of\r\nmycelium were in between 10 and 15 days.','Shahnaz Jamil and Manish Kumar (2010).Evaluation of fungicides against phyllosphere mycoflora of foliage plants. Biological Forum — An International Journal, 2(1): 56-59. '),(4698,'129','Status of mycorrhizal fungi in a saline-alkaline habitat','Richa Raghuwanshi* and R.S. Upadhyay','14 RICHA.pdf','',1,'A study was conducted on mycorrhizal status in plants growing at a saline-alkali site. Plants\r\ninhabiting the stressed site showed strong mycorrhizal dependency and the percent root colonization by the\r\nfungus was affected by the season.','Mycorrhizae, saline-alkali soil, seasonal variation','A study was conducted on mycorrhizal status in plants growing at a saline-alkali site. Plants\r\ninhabiting the stressed site showed strong mycorrhizal dependency and the percent root colonization by the\r\nfungus was affected by the season.','Arbuscular Mycorrhizae (AM) a key soil fungus, which\r\nform a symbiotic association with roots of higher plants are\r\nknown to have a critical role in improving plant health and\r\ntheir establishment in stress conditions like nutrient\r\ndeficiency, drought, contamination or soil disturbance. Both\r\nfossils and molecular phylogenetic evidence (Jeffries et al.,\r\n2003) supports the hypothesis that terrestrial plants evolved\r\nwith the aid of existing arbuscular mycorrhizal relationships.\r\nMycorrhizal associations are found in a broad range of\r\nhabitats, ranging from aquatic, deserts and low land tropical\r\nrain forest to high altitudes. These fungi are found in almost\r\nevery terrestrial ecosystem. Mycorrhizal fungus have been\r\nreported in roots of cultivated and non-cultivated plants\r\ngrowing in disturbed and un-disturbed saline soils, including\r\nmarshlands, river bank, roadsides, and even on the edges\r\nof salt slick. (Aliasgharzadeh et al., 2001; Hildebrandt et al.,\r\n2001; Garcia & Mendoza, 2007). They have been linked with\r\nincreased plant biomass and plant growth in saline soils\r\n(Al-Karaki, 2000; Ruizlozano and Azcon, 2000). Mycorrhizae\r\nare of immense importance in maintaining soil fertility and\r\nthese are influenced by climatic and seasonal changes in\r\nthe physico-chemical properties of soil. Since mycorrhizal\r\nassociation plays a vital role in plant establishment and\r\nnutrient cycling, the present study can be beneficial in\r\nreclamation programmes of such stressed habitats. By better\r\nunderstanding the ecology of AM fungi in SA soil one can\r\nfully exploit their potential in successful restoration of such\r\nsoils.\r\nMATERIALS AND METHODS\r\nThe saline-alkali site was located in the campus of the\r\nInstitute of Technology, Banaras Hindu University, Varanasi\r\nsituated at 25°18\' N latitude, 83°1\' E longitude and 76.19 m\r\nabove the mean sea level in the Eastern Gangetic plains of\r\nIndia. The region has a moist, subhumid climate dominated\r\nby tropical monsoonic character. The one-year time span\r\ncan be divided into three distinct seasons, hot summer (April\r\nto June), a warm rainy season (July to September) and a\r\ncold winter (November to February). October and March\r\nconstitute transitional months between rainy and winter and\r\nwinter and summer seasons respectively. During the\r\nexperimental period the temperature and relative humidity\r\nranged between 22-44°C and 28-78% during summer,\r\n25-34 °C and 73-92% during rainy season and 9-29 °C and\r\n48-90% during winter. The annual precipitation was 1209\r\nmm and 324 mm. The SA soil had a pH of 9.4, bulk density-\r\n1.53 g cc–1, 44 % porosity, 0.15 mmho cm-1 electrical\r\nconductivity, 0.28 % organic carbon and 20.6 (ppm) available\r\nphosphorus. The concentration of exchangeable ions (meq\r\n100 g–1) were Na+ 72.70, K+ 0.937, Ca2+ 189.62 and\r\nMg2+ 4.006. A nearby garden soil selected for comparison\r\nhad a pH of 7.2, bulk density-1.35 g cc–1, 50 % porosity,\r\n0.85 mmho cm–1 electrical conductivity, 0.9 % organic carbon\r\nand 670 (ppm) available phosphorus. The exchangeable ions\r\n(meq 100g-1) were Na+ 0. 716, K+ 0.3414, Ca2+ 15.22 and\r\nMg2+ 3.817.\r\nAssessment of AM in soil and plant roots\r\nThe assessment of AM fungi in plant growing naturally\r\nin SA soil was done during three seasons namely winter,\r\nsummer and rainy. Estimation and isolation of AM spores in\r\nsoil was done by wet sieving and decanting method\r\n(Gerdemann and Nicolson, 1963) and sucrose centrifugation\r\nmethod of Jenkins (as described in Daniels and Skipper,\r\n1982).\r\nQuantification of AM in plant roots was done following\r\nPhillips and Hayman (1970). The indigenous AM fungus\r\nwas identified as Glomus sp. RR1 on the basis of spore\r\nsize, hyphae, colour, reaction to Melzer’s solution and\r\ndifferent wall types as described by Walker (1986).\r\nRESULTS AND DISCUSSION\r\nAll the native plants growing at the SA site were\r\ninfected by Glomus sp. RR1, showing a strong mycorrhizal\r\ndependency. Significant (p ≤ 0.001) seasonal variation was\r\nobserved in the AM spore count in the rhizosphere soil\r\nand root colonization Fig. 1. Fairly high level of mycorrhizal\r\nassociation was recorded in most of the plant species during\r\nwinter and rainy seasons (> 50% colonization). Among the\r\nplants growing in summer season, Cynodon dactylon and\r\nSaccharum munja possessed high level of AM colonization\r\n(> 55%), which was followed by Accacia nilotica (50%).\r\nModerate level of colonization was recorded in Cyperus\r\nISSN : 0975-1130\r\nBiological Forum — An International Journal, 2(1): 60-62(2010)\r\nRaghuwanshi and Upadhyay 61\r\nrotendus, Dicanthium annulatum and Dalbergia sissoo\r\n(<40%). The AM colonization was infrequent in Cyperus\r\nrotendus. Plants growing during rainy season included\r\nDesmodium sp., Eclipta alba and Evolvulus sp. Plants\r\nshowing high level of colonization (>62%) in rainy season\r\nwere C. dactylon, S. munja, C. rotendus, Evolvulus sp. and\r\nDesmodium sp. Moderate colonization during this season\r\nwas recorded in A. nilotica (52%), E. alba (46%), and D.\r\nsissoo (39%). Least colonization (28%) in rainy season was\r\nobserved in D. annulatum. During winter season the trend\r\nobserved in the colonization of the plants by AM was similar\r\nto that observed in summer season in most of the case. C.\r\ndactylon and S. munja possessed highest level of\r\ncolonization in all the three seasons and the plant showing\r\nleast AM colonization varied with the seasons. While\r\nmaximum AM spore count in rhizospheric soil of the plants\r\nwas recorded in winter season, lowest was found in rainy\r\nseason. The plants growing throughout the year showed\r\nfairly good number of spores in their rhizosphere, of which,\r\nS. munja possessed maximum spore count and C. rotendus\r\npossessed the least count. Except Evolvulus sp. the plants\r\nwhich grew only in rainy season showed fewer number of\r\nAM spores (<10/100 g of soil). Less number of spores was\r\nrecorded in grasses growing in summer in SA soil, which\r\n80\r\n60\r\n40\r\n20\r\n0\r\nNumber of VAM spores (100g soil)\r\ncd\r\nd\r\na\r\nd\r\nbc\r\nb\r\ne\r\nd\r\na\r\ne\r\ncd\r\nbc\r\ne\r\ne\r\nb c\r\nb\r\na\r\nc c c\r\nSummer Rainy Winter Summer Rainy Winter\r\n80\r\n60\r\n40\r\n20\r\n0\r\na\r\nc\r\nab\r\nc\r\nc\r\nb\r\nab\r\ne\r\nab\r\na\r\ncd\r\nbc\r\nc\r\nab ab\r\ncd\r\ncd\r\na\r\nc\r\nd\r\nb\r\nCd Da Sm Cr Ds An De Ea Ev\r\nSEASON\r\nValues not followed by same letter are significantly different at p < 0.05 according to Duncan’s New Multiple Range Tst (DNM) (Abbreviations\r\n: Cd-Cynodon dactylon; Da-Dicanthium annulatum; Sm-Saccharum munja; Cr-Cypers rotendus; De-Desmodium sp.; Ea-Eclipta alba; Ev-\r\nEvolvulus sp.; Ds-Dalbergia sissoo; An-Acacia nilotica).\r\nFig.1. Seasonal variation in AM association in roots and rhizospheric soil of different plant species growing naturally in\r\nsaline-alkali soil.\r\nincluded C. dactylon, C. rotendus and D. annulatum.\r\nAll native plants showing strong mycorrhizal\r\ndependency supported the ability of mycorrhizal fungi to\r\nadapt to salt stresses and play an important role in alleviating\r\nthe detrimental effects as also observed by Bandau et. al.,\r\n(2006). Plants growing in the SA soil showed a marked\r\nseasonal variation in mycorrhizal colonization. These\r\nseasonal changes in the AM activity are regulated by the\r\nroot phenology as AM association is formed only in young\r\nroots and it has a limited period of activity (Harley and\r\nSmith, 1983). Root growth generally occurs at times when\r\nboth temperature and soil moisture conditions are favourable\r\n(Gregory, 1987). Onset of favourable conditions enhances\r\nroot growth and mycorrhizal activity. With rain the moisture,\r\nnutrient stress and toxic cations of the SA soil get reduced\r\nas a consequence of which a high level of AM colonization\r\nmay arise as observed in the present study. Low AM\r\ncolonization recorded during summer season might be due\r\nto low activity of AM fungi and root senescence during\r\nthis season. During summer the SA soil is subjected to high\r\npH, osmotic concentration, and temperature coupled with\r\nhigh salt concentration due to evapotranspiration.\r\nColonization of host plant roots and spore production in\r\nthe host soil vary seasonally as a function of climate and\r\nhost plant (Giovanetti, 1985).\r\nSpore count of AM fungi did not appear to be affected\r\nby salinity supporting Mergulhag et. al., (2001) observation.\r\nHowever, soil salinity has been reported (Juniper and Abbott,\r\n2006) to delay germination and limit growth of hyphae from\r\npropagules of AM fungi. Spore production is generally\r\nthought to coincide with the periods of fungal resource\r\nremobilization from senescing roots (Gemma et. al., 1989).\r\nIn most case spores are less abundant during periods of\r\nmycorrhizal formation and they become more numerous\r\nduring periods of root senescence. This hypothesis is\r\nsupported by our observation as the spore production\r\nincreased in winter, which starts after rainy season when\r\nroot activity starts getting interrupted by a spell of dry\r\nseason and nutrient stress. In summer the spore count\r\ndecreased as compared to winter, which might be attributed\r\ndue to increased rate of root senescence due to harsh soil\r\nconditions during summer. Studies done by Escudero and\r\n62 Raghuwanshi and Upadhyay\r\nMendoza (2005) too show that spore density and AM root\r\ncolonization when measured at any one time were poorly\r\nrelated to each other. However, spore density was\r\nsignificantly correlated with root colonization 3 months\r\nbefore suggesting that high colonization in one season\r\nprecedes high sporulation in the next season. AM spores\r\nincrease as a result of intermittent root growth during\r\nseasons of slow root growth and at sites where many\r\nrootlets die annually (Mosse, 1973). Spore number is likely\r\nto reflect the nutritional status of the host and/or of the\r\nsoil and the onset of adverse conditions (Mosse, 1973). It\r\ncan be said that overall trend in mycorrhizal dynamics at\r\nthe SA soil is regulated by the environmental constraints\r\non root and fungus activity, which vary seasonally.\r\nEstablished mycorrhizal vegetation in such SA stressed\r\nconditions can not only extent the infection of seedling and\r\nsupport their growth but may also be of particular ecological\r\ninterest as this may permit early successional plants to\r\nfacilitate the establishment of later successional groups\r\n(Dickie et. al., 2006). Thus AM Fungi can play a remarkable\r\nrole in the restoration of such stressed lands.','Richa Raghuwanshi* and R.S. Upadhyay (2010). Status of mycorrhizal fungi in a saline-alkaline habitat. Biological Forum — An International Journal, 2(1): 60-62. '),(4699,'129','Water quality assessment of three tributaries of Beas drainage system\r\nin Himachal Pradesh in upper reaches of Himalayan region','Ashu Awasthi and Praveen Tamot','15 ASHU.pdf','',1,'Himachal Pradesh is a hill state in Western Himalayas, located between 30°22 to 33°12 North\r\nlatitude and 75°47 to 79°4 East longitudes. Beas is one of important river of Himachal Pradesh which originates\r\nat an elevation of 14,308 feet (4361m) in the Rohtang glacier at Beas Kund (Lahul-Spiti). River Beas comprises\r\na stretch of 923 Kms including 297 Kms main river and 623 Kms of its tributaries. Recent reviews indicates that\r\nland degradation, forest loss, biodiversity and habitat degradation and pollution of fresh water are increasing\r\nhence this limnobiological study of three tributaries of Beas drainage system is an integrated approach to assess\r\nthe water quality of tributaries of River Beas in Palampur. The present investigations consist of the analysis of\r\nimportant water quality parameters. Samples were collected between 9am -10am from site I, site II and site III\r\n(Poon, Awa, Mole) fortnightly and subjected for analysis in the laboratory by Following the Standard Methods for\r\nExamination of Water & Waste Water (APHA, 1995) It is suggested that, water of all three tributaries viz. site I\r\n(Poon), Site II (Awa) and Site III (Mole) was found suitable for drinking purpose and will be helpful to solve the\r\nproblem of drinking water in metropolitan cities. This can be supplied as drinking water after primary treatment\r\nat national level.','Land degradation, Forest loss, Biodiversity and Phytoplankton','Himachal Pradesh is a hill state in Western Himalayas, located between 30°22 to 33°12 North\r\nlatitude and 75°47 to 79°4 East longitudes. Beas is one of important river of Himachal Pradesh which originates\r\nat an elevation of 14,308 feet (4361m) in the Rohtang glacier at Beas Kund (Lahul-Spiti). River Beas comprises\r\na stretch of 923 Kms including 297 Kms main river and 623 Kms of its tributaries. Recent reviews indicates that\r\nland degradation, forest loss, biodiversity and habitat degradation and pollution of fresh water are increasing\r\nhence this limnobiological study of three tributaries of Beas drainage system is an integrated approach to assess\r\nthe water quality of tributaries of River Beas in Palampur. The present investigations consist of the analysis of\r\nimportant water quality parameters. Samples were collected between 9am -10am from site I, site II and site III\r\n(Poon, Awa, Mole) fortnightly and subjected for analysis in the laboratory by Following the Standard Methods for\r\nExamination of Water & Waste Water (APHA, 1995) It is suggested that, water of all three tributaries viz. site I\r\n(Poon), Site II (Awa) and Site III (Mole) was found suitable for drinking purpose and will be helpful to solve the\r\nproblem of drinking water in metropolitan cities. This can be supplied as drinking water after primary treatment\r\nat national level.','In aquatic ecosystems the phytoplankton constitutes a\r\nvital link in the food chain. The planktons are essential\r\norganisms to understand the basic nature and economy of\r\nthe fresh water bodies. Changes in season influence the\r\nphysio-chemical condition of aquatic bodies which in turn\r\ninfluence the phytoplankton dynamics (Sarkar and Sen, 1975;\r\nMoitra and Mukharjee, 1972; Bhoumik, 1993).Though a\r\nplenty of work has been done on the seasonal variation of\r\nplankton by a number of Indian workers (Ganapati, 1942;\r\nGeorge, 1961; Saha et. al., 1971; Khan and Saddique, 1974;\r\nKohli et. al., 1982; Sarkar et al.,1985; Bhoumik, 1987 and\r\nWishard et. al., 1988). Hitherto, nothing about planktons\r\nfrom these tributaries of river Beas in Palampur of Himachal\r\nPradesh is known till date. Himachal Pradesh is a hill state\r\nin Western Himalayas, located between 30°22 to 33°12 North\r\nlatitude and 75°47 to 79°4 East longitudes. It has varied\r\ntype of water resources like glacier fed rivers, snow fed\r\ntributaries, natural lakes, man made reservoirs and many\r\nother seasonal water bodies. Beas is one of important river\r\nof Himachal Pradesh which originates at an elevation of\r\n14,308 feet (4361m) in the Rohtang glacier at Beas Kund\r\n(Lahul-Spiti). River Beas along with its tributaries comprises\r\na stretch of 923 Kms. including 297 Kms. main river and 623\r\nKms. of its tributaries. Study of some tributaries of river\r\nBeas has been done by Dhanze and Dhanze (2002); Chauhan\r\n(2002). Recent reviews indicates that land degradation, forest\r\nloss, biodiversity and habitat degradation, scarcity and\r\npollution of fresh water are increasing hence this\r\nlimnobiological study of three tributaries of Beas drainage\r\nsystem is an integrated approach to assess the water quality\r\nof River Beas. The investigations have been made to know\r\nthe ecological condition of the fresh water tributaries of\r\nRiver Beas.','Ashu Awasthi and Praveen Tamot (2010). Water quality assessment of three tributaries of Beas drainage system in Himachal Pradesh in upper reaches of Himalayan region. Biological Forum — An International Journal, 2(1): 63-66. '),(4700,'129','Growth response and feed conversion ratio of Ctenopharengedon\r\nIdella fed on Soyabean formulated feed','M.P. Bhilave, S.V. Bhosale and S.B. Nadaf','16_Bhillave.pdf','',1,'Commercialization of aquaculture is increasing the demand for aquaculture feeds. Traditionally,\r\nthese feeds have been based on animal protein. However, due to cost and availability considerations, it is inevitable\r\nthat more plant protein supplements will be utilized in the feeds in the future. Plant proteins are more cost\r\neffective than animal protein supplements. The growth and feed conversion ratio of a fish is remarkable tool to\r\ncompute the acceptability of formulated feed. A twelve week experiment was conducted in glass aquaria to\r\nevaluate the specific growth rate and feed conversion ratio of fingerlings of freshwater fish Ctenopharengedon\r\nidella fed on formulated feeds of different combinations of soyabean and deoiled groundnut cake. In the present\r\nstudy soyabean and deoiled groundnut cake were used to formulate the feed in various combinations that is from\r\n100% soyabean formulated feed to 100% conventional feed that is deoiled groundnut cake feed. The fish gained\r\nhighest body weight at 100% formulated feed than 100% conventional feed as well as having high SGR and low\r\nFCR values as compared to other feeds.','Formulated feed, SGR, FCR, soyabean, groundnut cake','Commercialization of aquaculture is increasing the demand for aquaculture feeds. Traditionally,\r\nthese feeds have been based on animal protein. However, due to cost and availability considerations, it is inevitable\r\nthat more plant protein supplements will be utilized in the feeds in the future. Plant proteins are more cost\r\neffective than animal protein supplements. The growth and feed conversion ratio of a fish is remarkable tool to\r\ncompute the acceptability of formulated feed. A twelve week experiment was conducted in glass aquaria to\r\nevaluate the specific growth rate and feed conversion ratio of fingerlings of freshwater fish Ctenopharengedon\r\nidella fed on formulated feeds of different combinations of soyabean and deoiled groundnut cake. In the present\r\nstudy soyabean and deoiled groundnut cake were used to formulate the feed in various combinations that is from\r\n100% soyabean formulated feed to 100% conventional feed that is deoiled groundnut cake feed. The fish gained\r\nhighest body weight at 100% formulated feed than 100% conventional feed as well as having high SGR and low\r\nFCR values as compared to other feeds.','For the improvement of fisheries and to achieve\r\nmaximum yields from resources of fresh water, it is necessary\r\nto provide artificial feed, by which fish grows rapidly and\r\nattains maximum weight in shortest possible time. As in other\r\nanimals, fish requires a nutritious diet for proper growth\r\nand quality protein production. To date, nutritionists and\r\nfeed manufacturers have concentrated their efforts on\r\ndetermining the feedstuff that may be used to produce a\r\ncost effective fish feed formulation. Among commonly used\r\nfeed ingredients, fish meal is considered to be the best\r\ningredients, due to its compatibility with the protein\r\nrequirement of fish (Alam et al., 1996). Replacement of fish\r\nmeal with cheaper ingredients of plant origin in fish feed is\r\nnecessary because of rising cost and uncertain availability\r\nof fish meal Higgs et al., 1995). Inclusion of feedstuffs\r\nwith relatively high levels of carbohydrate in formulated fish\r\nfeed is preferred in view of its protein-sparing action that\r\nmay make the diet more cost effective (Hidalgo et al., 1993).\r\nAccording to Rumsey (1993), increased use of plant protein\r\nsupplements in fish feed can reduce the cost of fish meal.\r\nThe research has focused on utilizing less expensive and\r\nreadily available resources to replace fish meal, without\r\nreducing the nutritional quality of feed (EI-Sayed 1999). The\r\nSpecific Growth Rate and Feed Conversion is an appropriate\r\nto judge the acceptability and suitability of artificial feed for\r\nfish.The information of SGR and FCR on locally available\r\ningredients will provide the basis to develop the acceptable\r\nfish feed, hence the present study was carried out to evaluate\r\nthe specific growth rates and feed conversion ratio of\r\nfreshwater fishes fed on formulated feeds using locally\r\navailable ingredients such as soyabean and deoiled\r\ngroundnut cake.\r\nBiological Forum — An International Journal, 2(1): 67-69(2010) ISSN : 0975-1130\r\nMATERIAL AND METHODS\r\nChoice of ingredients to be used in feed formulation\r\nshould be based on their qualities such as protein content,\r\nenergy level, types of amino acids etc.. Protein is the main\r\nconstituent of the fish body and plant sources are always\r\nhigher in proteins hence soyabean was selected as plant\r\nprotein sources in present formulation. The other ingredients\r\nsuch as milk powder, corn flour, eggs, cod liver oil, vitamin\r\nmixture containing vitamin B Complex and E, agar powder,\r\ngarlic paste, pepper powder, and cumin powder is used.\r\nFORMULATION OF FEEDS\r\nSoyabean meal was taken in powder form as principal\r\ningredients. Ingredients mentioned above are added. All the\r\ningredients are boiled till the mixture becomes semisolid mass.\r\nIngredients in semisolid form are kept under refrigeration\r\nfor 12 hrs. Then it was squeezed over polythene sheet and\r\ndried at room temperature for 48 hrs. The dried nodules are\r\ncrushed into small pellets. Pellets are sun dried to avoid\r\nfungal infection. Following the above procedure all the feeds\r\nwere formulated. Following the above procedure all the feeds\r\nwere formulated in the percentage composition of 25%\r\n(soyabean meal 25% +groundnut oil cake 75%), 50%\r\n(soyabean meal 50%+groundnut oil cake50%), 75%\r\n(soyabean meal 75% +groundnut oil cake 25%), 100%\r\nformulated (totally of soyabean meal)and 100%conventional\r\n(totally of groundnut oil cake).\r\nExperimental set up\r\nExperiments were conducted in laboratory in glass\r\naquaria of adequate size. The fingerlings of freshwater fishes\r\n68 Bhilave, Bhosale and Nadaf\r\nctenopharengedon idella were brought to the laboratory\r\nand acclimatized for one week. They were fed at the rate of\r\n5% of total body weight. Feeding was carried out for 90\r\ndays. The body weights of fishes were also recorded at\r\nselected time intervals from each aquarium respectively. The\r\nSGR and FCR values were obtained by taking into\r\nconsideration the recording weights of fishes and by\r\napplying the standard formula.\r\nRESULTS AND DISCUSSION\r\nIn present study the overall growth of fingerlings\r\nremained high for 100% formulated feed while low for\r\n100%conventional feed (Table 1). The values of Specific\r\nGrowth Rate of fingerlings remained high for formulated\r\nfeed from Soyabean (0.327%) while it was 0.166% for\r\nconventional feed (Table 2). This growth response shown\r\nby the fishes may be due to the higher protein content of\r\nformulated feed than the conventional feed.','M.P. Bhilave, S.V. Bhosale and S.B. Nadaf (2010).Growth response and feed conversion ratio of Ctenopharengedon Idella fed on Soyabean formulated feed. Biological Forum — An International Journal, 2(1): 67-69.'),(4701,'129','Hematological analysis of Molluscan species Bellamya bengalensis\r\nand Lamiellidens marginalis','N.A. Kambale and V.V. Potdar','17_VV_Potda.pdf','',1,'Two molluscan species, freshwater snail Bellamya bengalensis and a bivalve Lamellidens marginalis\r\nwere used for the hematological analysis. Hemolymph of both the species was collected from the body parts by\r\nusing nonlethal technique in in-situ condition. Cells observed in the heamolymph were compared morphologically\r\nand quantitatively to discuss its role in the mechanism of circulation, transportation and also by means of\r\ndefense mechanism in the body of both species. Cellular comparisons were made at the species level.','Mollusca, Haemocyte, B. bengalensis, L. marginalis','Percent of different Types of leucocytes\r\n=\r\nNo. of a type W.B.C. ×100\r\nTotal No. of W.B.C.\r\nRESULT AND DISSCUSSION\r\nA. Qualitative Analysis\r\nIn case of freshwater snail, Bellamya bengalensis and\r\nbivalve Lamellidens marginalis classification criteria based\r\non morphological characters and behavioral pattern of the\r\nhaemocyte. Main two types of hemocytes were identified in\r\nstained spontaneous monolayer namely, Agranulocytes and\r\nGranulocytes.\r\n(1) Agranulocytes. The agranulocytes are less abundant\r\nand had a limited ability to spread on glass slides, thus\r\nshowing a round shape. Agranulocytes were smaller than\r\ngranulocytes and had large nuclei and reduced basophilic\r\ncytoplasm.\r\nTheir nucleus-cytoplasm (n/c) ratio was high. The\r\nbasophilic cytoplasm generally, did not contain granules.\r\nThese are also called as hylinocytes which comprise 5 % of\r\nthe total hemocytes population and represents young blastic\r\ncells.\r\n(2) Granulocytes. Granulocytes are larger than\r\nagranulocytes, also called as spread cells, constitutes about\r\n95% hemocytes population. These cells are polymorphic in\r\nnature with polymorphic nucleus and numerous granules in\r\nthe cytoplasm, forming long pseudopodia with axial streaks.\r\nThe cells are adhering to substratum and has capacity to\r\nchange their shapes and size, the cells represented a\r\npopulation of mature cells. Some cells stained with Leishmans\r\nstain, showed eccentrically situated oval or kidney shaped\r\nnucleus and high affinity towards acidic stain. These cells\r\nwere acidophilic granulocytes. Where as nucleus of some\r\ngranulocytes shows affinity towards basic stains and were\r\nstained blue colour referred as basophilic granulocytes','In spite of the constant progress of studies on\r\nmolluscan blood cells, there is no uniform and satisfactory\r\nclassification system. Therefore these cells classified on one\r\nhand, the role of blood cells in various functional and\r\ndevelopment stages, and to the other hand, either by\r\nmorphological aspects in the body (Adamowicz and Bolaczek,\r\n2003). Hemolymph, the circulatory fluid of molluscs, which\r\nis slightly bluish in colour due to presence of respiratory\r\npigment hemocynine. Hemolymph transports nutrients,\r\nrespiratory gases, enzymes, metabolic wastes and also\r\ntoxicants throughout the body. Hemolymph with plasma and\r\ncorpuscles can provide information pertinent to health\r\nassessment of animals or population. A large number of\r\ncolorless stellate amoebocytes or corpuscles also referred\r\nas leucocytes are found in plasma, which are collectively\r\ncalled as hemocytes (Gustafson and Stoskop, 2005).\r\nAlthough hematology has been explored considerably and\r\nstudies have been made on blood of molluscs, there is still\r\nmuch opportunity for investigation of blood differentiation\r\nand its mechanism in various body processes of freshwater\r\nsnails and bivalves by means of their crucial role in body\r\nprocess. In general molluscs play a role in the balance of\r\nnature, and also act as biological indicator, in determining\r\nthe degree of pollution of water and terrestrial environment.\r\nBy considering the important role of hemocytes in molluscs,\r\nwe have decided to study hematological analysis of two\r\nfreshwater species as Bellamya bengalensis and Lamelliden\r\nmarginalis. Comparison of two species quantitatively as well\r\nas qualitatively was done at cellular level.\r\nMATERIAL AND METHODS\r\nFor the present investigation two molluscan freshwater\r\nspecies (Bellamya bengalensis and Lamellidens marginalis)\r\nwere used. The first Freshwater prosobranch snail Bellamya\r\nbengalensis belongs to class gastropoda, were collected from\r\n‘Rajaram tank’, near the campus of Shivaji University\r\nKolhapur, Maharashtra, India. The snails were collected and\r\nbrought to laboratory in polythene bags. After the cleaning,\r\nsnails were kept in large plastic trough having 50 lits. The\r\nsnails were provided with proper ventilation and food, like\r\nHydrilla, Pistia, etc. After acclimatization for a week, healthy,\r\nadult and same sized snails (2.8-3.5 gm. weight, and 23-26\r\nmm shell height) were sorted out and used for experimental\r\nstudies.\r\nSimilarly the second molluscan freshwater bivalve\r\nspecies Lamellidens marginalis belongs to class pelecypoda\r\ninhabiting along the bank of Krishna river was specifically\r\ncollected from south bank of Haripur and north of Ankali\r\nvillages, Dist. Sangli, Maharashtra, India. After collection,\r\nthe shells of these bivalve molluscs were cleaned to remove\r\nthe fouling algal mass and mud and were kept for\r\nacclimatization for a week. The bivalves were provided with\r\nproper ventilation and food in the form of zooplanktons.\r\nThe healthy, adult and same sized bivalves (9.5cm to\r\n10.5 cm length in shell size) were used for experiment.\r\nNONLETHAL METHOD OF HEMOLYMPH\r\nCOLLECTION\r\nCollection of hemolymph from the gastropod snail\r\nBellamya bengalensis was carried out in following manner.\r\nPrior to bleeding snail were washed with cold water in order\r\nto remove the feaces and excess mucus. It was then held\r\nin the left hand and then the syringe with a needle size 26\r\nG½ (0.45mm × 13mm) was inserted in foot, through the\r\noperculum. The pressure is applied by withdrawing the\r\nplunger of the syringe and needle was slowly moved deeper\r\nuntil drops of pale blue hemolymph were aspirated. After\r\nthe collection of required hemolymph the snail was returned\r\nto its enclosure.\r\nIn case of bivalve molluscs, Lamellidens marginalis\r\nhemolymph was collected by gently prying the shell to\r\nopen approximately 5 to7 mm. with a thin knife. The shell\r\nwas held open with tissue forceps. The foot was visible\r\nbetween slightly gaping of shell valves, as a highly muscular\r\nwhite surface, then it was gently penetrated with a 26 G½\r\n(0.45 mm × 13mm) sized needle. Required quantity of\r\nBiological Forum — An International Journal, 2(1): 70-72(2010) ISSN : 0975-1130\r\nKambale and Potdar 71\r\nheamolymph was easily collected using gentle intermittent\r\nsuction.\r\nDIFFERENTIAL CELL COUNT\r\nA drop of collected hemolymph was taken on a clean\r\nand dry slide at one end, with the help of a second slide\r\n(spreader slide) held at 45° drawn a thin uniform film of the\r\nblood. It was air- dried perfectly. An area of uniform film\r\nmarked with a wax pencil and stained with Leishman\'s stain\r\nfor one minute. Then distilled water was added to the stain\r\n(in ratio 1 : 1). Stain was allowed to stand for 7-10 minute\r\nup to appearance of greenish metallic scum of mixture.\r\nThereafter stain was drain off and film washed for 10-15\r\nseconds with distilled water. The colour of film was pink.\r\nThe slide was observed under microscope for differential\r\ncell count, by using high power or oil immersion objective.','N.A. Kambale and V.V. Potdar (2010). Hematological analysis of Molluscan species Bellamya bengalensis and Lamiellidens marginalis. Biological Forum — An International Journal, 2(1): 70-72. '),(4702,'129','Impact of drought on drinking water resources of Himachal Pradesh','Hari Pal Singh, M.R. Sharma, Quamural Hassan, Naved Ahsan','18 MR SHARMA.pdf','',1,'In India drought occurrence is most prominent feature in Western Rajasthan, Gujrat and some\r\nother parts of India. However drought like situations also occurs in some parts of western outer Himalayas. One\r\nsuch region is Himachal Pradesh. Himachal Pradesh is experiencing drought like situations since last decade.\r\nThe intensity of drought is increasing year after year and for the past six years Himachal is facing acute\r\ndrinking water shortage during summer months. The present study is based on secondary data obtained from line\r\ndepartments and interactions of the authors with people in the rural areas. An attempt has been to assess the\r\nimpact of drought on drinking water sources of the state. There is need to change some existing policies relating\r\nto water management to tackle the water shortage during water scarcity.','Impact of drought, Drinking Water Resources, Water harvesting, Himachal Pradesh','In India drought occurrence is most prominent feature in Western Rajasthan, Gujrat and some\r\nother parts of India. However drought like situations also occurs in some parts of western outer Himalayas. One\r\nsuch region is Himachal Pradesh. Himachal Pradesh is experiencing drought like situations since last decade.\r\nThe intensity of drought is increasing year after year and for the past six years Himachal is facing acute\r\ndrinking water shortage during summer months. The present study is based on secondary data obtained from line\r\ndepartments and interactions of the authors with people in the rural areas. An attempt has been to assess the\r\nimpact of drought on drinking water sources of the state. There is need to change some existing policies relating\r\nto water management to tackle the water shortage during water scarcity.','Droughts are the resultant of acute water shortage due\r\nto lack of rains over extended periods of time affecting\r\nvarious human activities and lead to problems like\r\nwidespread crop failure, un-replenished ground water\r\nresources, depletion in lakes/reservoirs, shortage of drinking\r\nwater and reduced fodder availability etc. Often a region\r\nadopts itself to a certain level of water shortage based on\r\nthe long-term climatic conditions experienced by it. Any\r\nnegative departure from these levels creates conditions of\r\ndrought, depending on the intensity and duration of this\r\ndeficit. Thus drought conditions differ from region to region.\r\nBecause drought affects many economic and social sectors,\r\nscores of definitions have been developed by a variety of\r\ndisciplines and the approaches taken to define it also reflect\r\nregional and ideological variations. The Indian subcontinent\r\nis predominantly characterized by a tropical monsoon climate,\r\nwhere climate regimes are governed by the differences in\r\nrainfall, rather than temperatures. The most important feature\r\nis the seasonal alteration of atmospheric flow patterns\r\nassociated with monsoon. There are two monsoon systems\r\noperating in the region-the southwest or summer monsoon\r\nand the northeast or the winter monsoon. The summer\r\nmonsoon accounts for 70 to 90 percent of the annual rainfall\r\nover major parts of South-Asia. There is a large variability\r\nin the monsoon rainfall on both space and time scales.\r\nConsequently the Indian region experiences drought or flood\r\nin some part of the country or the other almost every year\r\nduring the monsoon period (June-September).\r\nIn past, droughts have periodically led to major Indian\r\nfamines, including the Bengal famine of 1770, in which up\r\nto one third of the population in affected areas died; the\r\n1876-1877 famine, in which over five million people died;\r\nand the 1899 famine, in which over 4.5 million died. (Nash\r\n2002) (Colier and Webb 2002).\r\nAll such episodes of serve drought correlate with El\r\nNino-Southern Oscillation (ENSO) events (Kumar et. al.,\r\n2006) (Caviedes 2001). El Nino-related droughts have also\r\nbeen implicated in periodic in Indian Agricultural\r\noutput.(Caviedes 2001) Nevertheless, ENSO events that have\r\ncoincided with abnormally high area surfaces temperatures\r\nin the Indian Ocean- in one instance during 1997 and 1998\r\nby up to 3°C have resulted in increased oceanic evaporation,\r\nresulting in usually wet weather across India. Such anomalies\r\nhave occurred during a sustained warm spell that began in\r\nthe 1990s (Nash 2002). A contrasting phenomenon is that,\r\ninstead of the usual high pressure air mass over the southern\r\nIndian Ocean, an ENSO-related oceanic low pressure\r\nconvergence center forms; it then continually pulls dry air\r\nfrom Central Asia, desiccating India during what should have\r\nbeen the humid summer monsoon season. This reversed air\r\nflow causes India’s droughts (Caviedes 2001). The extent\r\nthat an ENSO event raises sea surface temperatures in the\r\ncentral pacific Ocean influence the degree of drought.\r\nThere are many types of drought. Hydrological draught\r\nis brought about when the water reserves available in\r\nsources such as aquifers, lakes and reservoirs fall below\r\nthe statistical average. This paper looks at drinking water\r\nresources management perspective of Hydrological draught\r\nlike conditions during the summer months in region of\r\nHimachal Pradesh\r\nStudy Area\r\nHimachal Pradesh is small state in north-west Himalayas.\r\nThe state of Himachal Pradesh is located between 30°-22’\r\nand 30°-12’ north latitude and between 75°-47’ and 79°-4’\r\neast longitude. The mountainous state has altitude ranging\r\nfrom 350 m to 7000 m above mean sea level. (SCSTE 2002)\r\nHimalayas, the abode of snow, is a perennial source of\r\nwater and is responsible for the greenery that is seen in the\r\nvalleys and spurs. As long as the natural resources of the\r\nISSN : 0975-1130\r\nBiological Forum — An International Journal, 2(1): 73-77(2010)\r\n74 Singh, Sharma, Hassan and Ahsan\r\nHimalayan region were sufficient to provide the needs of\r\nthe people, it was not felt to give a thought on the depleting\r\nresources of the region. Gradually it led to over-exploitation\r\nof the available resources and has created a series of\r\nproblems.\r\nTo assess the status of drinking water sources affected\r\nin the state during summers a study was conducted on all\r\nthe piped drinking water supply sources by measuring their\r\ndischarge. The main objective of study was to identify the\r\nareas where the water resources get affected during summer\r\nand to assess the impact of drought on various drinking\r\nwater sources. There are 7989 piped water supply schemes\r\nin the state and about 9987 drinking water sources have\r\nbeen taped.(Sharma 2007)\r\nMATERIALS AND METHODS\r\nThe study covers the entire state of Himachal Pradesh.\r\nBoth primary and secondary data matrices have been\r\ncollected and used in the paper. While published and\r\nunpublished sources are taken in account for secondary\r\ndata, the primary data was generated based on spot\r\nverification and field observation.\r\nA preliminary field visit of the area affected was made\r\nto get an idea of the drinking water sources in the study\r\narea. Primary data were collected through personal\r\nobservation method from the selected sites in the study\r\narea. The data include the information relating to type and\r\nlocation of water sources whose discharges get reduced\r\nduring summers. The secondary data used in the study were\r\ncollected from Irrigation and Public Health Department, Rural\r\nDevelopment Department, Department of Science &\r\nTechnology. In commensurate with the objectives of the\r\nstudy, various concepts and mathematical tools were\r\nemployed. In general percentage, ratios and averages were\r\nworked out to interpret the results.\r\nRESULTS AND DISCUSSIONS\r\nHimachal Pradesh has provided piped drinking water to\r\nentire of its population by spending a huge amount of\r\nmoney. The study has shown that there are 7989 piped water\r\nsupply schemes in Himachal Pradesh. It addition to it there\r\nare number of traditional drinking water sources in this\r\nHimalayan belt. The main traditional sources for the drinking\r\nwater in the area are wells, baolies, springs, ponds and\r\nkhatries.(Sharma 2006) The entire population of the state\r\nhas been supplied with piped drinking water.\r\nThe population of Himachal Pradesh has grown from\r\n23.86 lakh in 1951 to 60.78 lakh in 2001. Thus the population\r\nhas grown more than 2.5 times in a period of 50 years.\r\nTaking the present growth trend in to consideration, the\r\npopulation is expected to further rise to 98.61 lakh in 2031\r\n(Sharma 2007). This will be about 1.6 times of the population\r\nin the year 2001 Table 1.\r\nThe drinking water demand has grown 2.4 times in rural\r\nareas and 6.8 times in urban areas in a time period of 50\r\nyears (Sharma 2007). The demand will further rise 1.62 times\r\nin rural area as well as urban areas in the next 30 years\r\nTable 2.\r\nThe drinking water sources of only 3.2% water supply\r\nschemes get affected more than 75%. The drinking water\r\nsources of 4.67% schemes get affected between 50 to 75%.\r\nThe drinking water sources of 6.71% schemes get affected\r\nbetween 25 to 50% and the drinking water sources of 7.33%\r\nschemes get affected up to 25%. Thus the sources of\r\nonly 22.3% of the piped water supply schemes get affected\r\nduring summers Table 3.\r\nDuring the year 2009 the district which was affected\r\nmost is the Solan, where 38.12% of habitations got affected\r\nduring summer. The other districts which were affected i.e,\r\nwhere the discharge of drinking water sources is reduced\r\nare Sirmour 29.2%, Hamirpur 5.55%, Kangra 17.05%, Bilaspur\r\n27.31%, Mandi 14.54%, Shimla 15.05%, Kullu 10.15%,\r\nChamba 1.6% and Una 8.03% Table 5.\r\nMost of these schemes fall in Shiwalik hills. The total\r\npopulation affected during the summers is 768579. Thus\r\n11.1% of the rural population feel scarcity of water due to\r\nreduction in discharge of sources Table 4.\r\nDuring the year 2009, the total number of rural\r\nhabitations which got affected are 6804, i.e 15.0% of the\r\ntotal habitations of the state Table 3.2. This year 26704\r\npersons in 3 towns of the state felt scarcity of water in\r\nsummers.\r\nDuring drought years there is massive mobilization of\r\nwater-tankers in summer months when acute shortage of\r\nwater is felt. On average 400 water tankers are deployed to\r\ncope up the demand of drinking water during summer in the\r\nstate. Table 6 During year 2009, 704 water tankers were\r\ndeployed to supply water to the affected population. Most\r\nof the tankers were deployed in Bilaspur, Solan, Mandi, Una\r\nand Kangra districts.\r\nMost of the water supply schemes, whose discharge\r\ngets reduced during summers, fall in Shiwalik hills. The\r\nmiddle and upper Shiwaliks are the recent deposits\r\nconstituting the main geological formations. The Shiwalik\r\ncomprises conglomerate, friable micaceous sandstone,\r\nsiltstone and claystone. Water holding capacity of the soils\r\nis low. Soils are susceptible to excessive soil erosion and\r\nland slides due to water. Due to irregular, undulating\r\ntopography, shallow depth, steep slopes, coarse texture, poor\r\nsoil structure, scanty vegetative cover and erratic rainfall,\r\nduring dry periods the soil profile dries up quickly on\r\naccount of evaporation and transpiration. The crops\r\nexperience drought like conditions and consequently the\r\ncrop yields and discharge of water sources are affected\r\nadversely.\r\nMost of the sources, whose discharge get reduced\r\nduring summers are spring sources\r\nAnalysis of the rainfall data shows that there is no\r\ndecline in average rainfall incident at a place in Himachal\r\nSingh, Sharma, Hassan and Ahsan 75\r\nPradesh. While there are year-to-year fluctuations, no\r\ndeclining trend is discernible from the data available. The\r\nbelief that the problems of water scarcity are due to reduction\r\nof rainfall is not supported by the rainfall data. However\r\nsome erratic rainfall pattern has been observed in the recent\r\npast in the region. The problems of water scarcity are due\r\nto population growth, increase in per capita demand,\r\nurbanization, agricultural use and industrial demand.\r\nBaories, dug wells, step wells, khatries and springs are\r\nthe traditional water harvesting structures that have been\r\nused as source of drinking water in this region over the\r\ncenturies. In many villages these systems have fallen into\r\ndisuse with the spread of piped water supply. The size of\r\ncatchments limits the quantity of water collected. The water\r\ndemand has risen many times. Mostly it is sometime not\r\npossible to meet the demand of the villagers from the local\r\nsources.\r\nEvery year a huge amount of money is spent by\r\ngovernment on installation of new hand pumps in the water\r\nscarcity areas. On average 540 hand pumps are drilled every\r\nyear in the state Table 6. These hand pumps are mostly\r\ninstalled in areas where there is road connectivity.','Hari Pal Singh, M.R. Sharma, Quamural Hassan, Naved Ahsan (2010).Impact of drought on drinking water resources of Himachal Pradesh. Biological Forum — An International Journal, 2(1): 73-77. '),(4703,'129','Environmental changes and emerging vector-borne diseases: A\r\nreview','Javid Ahmad Dar and Khursheed Ahmad Wani','19 KHURSHEED.pdf','',1,'Vector-borne infectious diseases are resurging as a result of changes in public health policy,\r\ndemographic and societal changes, insecticide and drug resistance, shift in emphasis from prevention to emergency\r\nresponse, genetic changes in pathogens in the last two decades of the twentieth century. Each environmental\r\nchange, whether occurring as a natural phenomenon or through human intervention, changes the ecological\r\nbalance and context within which disease hosts or vectors and parasites breed, develop, and transmit disease.\r\nClimate changes also can influence the emergence and reemergence of these diseases which are malaria, dengue,\r\nyellow fever, plague, filariasis, louse-borne typhus, Lyme disease, trypanosomiasis, leishmaniasis and viral diseases.\r\nWest Nile virus is just the latest example of this type of invasion by exotic virus. This paper provides an overview\r\nof the distribution, reasons of emergence or reemergence of the important vector-borne diseases throughout the\r\nworld.','Malaria, Yellow fever, Dengue, Plague, Typhus, Arbovirus','Without sustained vector control in urban areas, even\r\nthe world’s affluent cities are at risk for epidemic arboviral\r\ndiseases. We do not know how many potential organisms\r\nwill share our planet with us that are awaiting the right\r\nconditions for their chance at stardom by becoming emerging\r\ninfectious diseases. Millions of deaths occur annually due\r\nto these vectors all over the world and reemergence of\r\nDar and Wani 83\r\ncertain vectors are posing a potential threat and challenge\r\nto the humanity. Control measures for vector-borne diseases\r\nare important, these include undertaking personal protective\r\nmeasures by establishing physical barriers such as house\r\nscreens and bed nets; wearing appropriate clothing (boots,\r\napparel that overlaps the upper garments, head nets, etc.);\r\nand using insect repellents. Environmental modification to\r\neliminate specific breeding areas or chemical biological\r\ncontrol measures to kill arthropod larvae or adults may also\r\nbe undertaken. Areas such as ports and airports should be\r\nrigidly monitored, with control measures utilized to prevent\r\nimportant arthropod disease vectors from entering the\r\ncountry. The department of Health and Family Welfare should\r\nlaunch curative, preventive and educative role to prevent\r\nand control vector borne diseases. Emphasis should be laid\r\non new strategies for prevention and control of vector-borne\r\ndiseases. Integrated Vector Management approach will\r\nreinforces linkages between health and environment.','During the history of human cultural evolution,\r\npopulation dispersal around the world and subsequent interpopulation\r\ncontact and conflict there have been several\r\ndistinct transitions in the relationships of Homo sapiens with\r\nthe natural world. Each of these transitions in human\r\necology and inter-population interaction has profoundly\r\nchanged the patterns of infectious disease. In the first\r\ntransition, human settlements allowed countless novel strains\r\nof bacteria and viruses to make the jump from domesticated\r\nherds of naturally gregarious animals to humans.\r\nAnthropological research in Africa has shown that malariaprotective\r\nsickle-cell trait arose when iron tools and slashand-\r\nburn agriculture were introduced, presumably by creating\r\nnew breeding sites for Anopheles gambiae, the major\r\nmosquito vector for falcifarum malaria (Michael, 2001).\r\nThe second great transition occurred from around 2500\r\nto 1000 years BC with travel and military movements between\r\nthe contiguous land masses of Europe, Northern Africa and\r\nAsia. And the third great transition began around five\r\ncenturies ago and entailed the trans-oceanic spread of\r\ndisease.\r\nThese three great historical transitions were processes\r\nof equilibration between first humans and animal species\r\nand later, among regional human populations. As new\r\necological niches were created by changes in human cultural\r\npractices, microbes exploited those niches. As new contacts\r\nwere made between previously isolated civilizations,\r\ninfectious diseases have been shared. In today’s globalizing\r\nworld, populations everywhere are becoming interconnected\r\neconomically, culturally and physically, enhancing the\r\nmixing of people, animals, and microbes from all\r\ngeographical areas.\r\nIn today’s world, no country is safe from infectious\r\ndiseases. Human mobility has escalated dramatically in\r\nvolume and speed between and within countries. Long\r\ndistance trade facilitates the geographical redistribution of\r\npests and pathogens. Changing social, cultural and\r\nenvironmental conditions have been related to the new\r\ndistribution pattern of the diseases, emphasizing vectorborne\r\ndiseases, to clarify the above question.\r\nHistorically, vector-borne diseases such as malaria,\r\ndengue, yellow fever, plague, filariasis, louse-borne typhus,\r\ntrypanosomiasis, and leishmaniasis were responsible for\r\nmore human disease and death in the 17th and the early\r\n20th centuries. (Gubler, 1998). After successful control\r\nprograms by the 1960s, vector-borne diseases were no longer\r\nconsidered major public health problems outside Africa.\r\nHowever, the benefits of vector-borne disease control\r\nprograms were short-lived, and in the last thirty years, there\r\nhas been a dramatic global resurgence of infectious diseases.\r\nSome important diseases were recognized for the first time,\r\nincluding HIV/AIDS, Hantavirus pulmonary syndrome, Ebola,\r\nLyme disease and ehrlichiosis. Equally important was the\r\nrising incidence of many recognized diseases that had been\r\neffectively controlled since 1960s. New combinations of\r\ndiseases have also been noted, such as the appearance and\r\nspread of co-infections of HIV virus and leishmaniasis. By\r\n2004, vector-borne diseases like malaria and dengue\r\nhemorrhagic fever are among the most serious public health\r\nproblems in countries where there are no properly-trained\r\nvector biologists in the Ministries of Health (WHO, 2004).\r\nAlthough the reasons behind this dramatic resurgence\r\nof arboviral diseases are complex, Gubler (2002) listed the\r\nfollowing factors :\r\nISSN : 0975-1130\r\nBiological Forum — An International Journal, 2(1): 78-83(2010)\r\nDar and Wani 79\r\n(i) Demographic changes including global population\r\ngrowth, population movements, and unplanned and\r\nuncontrolled urbanization;\r\n(ii) Societal changes such as human encroachment on\r\nnatural disease foci, modern transportation,\r\ncontainerized shipping;\r\n(iii) Agricultural changes including changes in land use,\r\nirrigation systems, deforestation;\r\n(iv) Changes in pathogens due to increased movement\r\nin humans and animals and genetic changes leading\r\nto increased epidemic potential;\r\n(v) Change in public health, including lack of effective\r\nvector control, deterioration of public health\r\ninfrastructure to combat vector-borne diseases,\r\nsurveillance of disease, prevention programs and\r\npossible climate change (Gubler, 2002).\r\nIt is clear that certain demographic and societal changes\r\nin the past 30 years had a major impact on the ecology of\r\nvector-borne diseases. Modern transportation ensures faster\r\nand increased movement of humans, animals, and\r\ncommodities and their pathogens between regions and\r\npopulation centers of the world. For example, in the past\r\ntwenty years, four exotic mosquito species have been\r\nintroduced and established in the United States; three of\r\nthese are potential vectors of local diseases (Russel, 2001).\r\nAedes albopictus (Asian tiger mosquito) of Asian origin,\r\nfirst spread to the America and African continents, and is\r\nnow established in North and South America, Africa, Oceania\r\nand Europe. It was first detected in Europe in 1979 in\r\nAlbania, after which it has been reported from many different\r\ncountries (WHO, 2004). By late 2001, Aedes albopictus had\r\nrapidly become the most important pest species in northern\r\nItaly. In 1996, another introduced mosquito species Aedes\r\natropalpus was discovered in the Ventao region of northern\r\nItaly. More recently, Ochlerotatus japonicus, an Asian\r\nmosquito, has been reported from Normandy, France where\r\nit was found breeding in tires, like the above Aedes species\r\n(Schaffner, et al., 2001).\r\nThere is an increasing trend of Tick-borne encephalitis\r\ncases in Europe, partly due to changes in human behavior\r\nthat bring more people into contact with infected ticks.\r\nFluctuations in mean temperature values also effect the\r\ndistribution of many tick species in Northern Europe.\r\nDipteran larvae, a cause of myiasis, are often found on\r\ntravelers returning from tropical countries. Cockroaches are\r\nubiquitous pest aboard ships and aircraft, and exotic species\r\nare quite often transferred from one country to another\r\n(Gubler, 2002). The high rates of transmission by different\r\nvectors to different vertebrate hosts in new geographic areas\r\ncan result in selective pressures that lead to genetic changes\r\nin the pathogen. These new strains of virus may have\r\ngreater epidemic potential and virulence. For example, the\r\nunique susceptibility of young domestic geese in Israel\r\nduring 1997-2000 to West Nile virus and the isolation of\r\nsimilar strains from migrating White storks in Israel and\r\nEgypt suggest that the recent isolates are more pathogenic\r\nfor certain avian species (Malkinson and Banet, 2000).\r\nDeforestation provides new ecological niches and\r\nconditions for proliferation of newly arriving and/or adaptive\r\nvectors and their parasites. The replacement of forests with\r\ncrop farming, ranching and raising small animals can create\r\na supportive habitat for parasites and their host vectors.\r\nNew settlers to a deforested area are particularly vulnerable\r\nas they lack immunity to the zoonotic parasites endemic to\r\nthe area. In adapting to changed environmental conditions,\r\nincluding reduction of non-human population and increased\r\nhuman population, some vectors display a conversion from\r\na primarily zoophyllic (bites to animal) to primarily\r\nanthropophilic (bites to human) orientation. Water control\r\nprojects can create new breeding habitats for mosquitoes,\r\nsnails, their larvae and their parasites. The construction of\r\nnew roads provides access for new human, livestock, vector\r\nand parasite populations (Patz et al., 2002).\r\nThe International Council of Scientific Unions\r\nIntergovernmental Panel of Climate change, established by\r\nthe World Meteorological Organization and the United\r\nNations Environmental Program, have estimated that by the\r\nyear 2100, average global temperatures will have risen by\r\nbetween 1.0°C to 3.5°C. Important ecological changes may\r\ncome in future due to the global warming. The distribution\r\nand seasonality of diseases that are transmitted by\r\ncoldblooded insects or ticks are likely to be affected by\r\nclimate change (Gubler, 2002; Patz et. al., 2002). Changes in\r\nclimate is responsible for the recent resurgence of vectorborne\r\ndiseases\r\nThe incidence of mosquito-borne diseases, including\r\nmalaria, dengue, and viral encephalitis are among those\r\ndiseases most sensitive to climate (Epstein, 2000). Climate\r\nchange would directly affect the transmission of the diseases\r\nby shifting the vectors geographic range and increasing\r\nreproductive and biting rates and by shortening the\r\npathogen incubation period. Human susceptibility to\r\ninfections might be further compounded by malnutrition due\r\nto crop failure caused by climate stress (Patz et. al., 2002).\r\nTemperature can affect both the distribution of the vector\r\nand the effectiveness of pathogen transmission through the\r\nvector. Temperature can affect survival of the vector, the\r\nrate of vector population growth, feeding behavior,\r\nsusceptibility of the vector to pathogens, incubation period\r\nof the pathogen, seasonality of vector activity, and the\r\nseasonality of pathogen transmission. For example, the\r\nrelation between El-Nino events and increased malaria risk\r\nis partly due to increased temperature and partly due to\r\nincreased rainfall leading to increased mosquito breeding\r\nsites because of surface water collections (Hunter, 2003).\r\nDecreased rainfall has been shown to be associated with\r\nepidemics of SLE (St Louis encephalitis) when the vector\r\nCulex pipiens breeds effectively in urban drainage systems.\r\nUnusual abundance of some vectors, such as ticks or\r\nchanged behavior of other pests, such as higher\r\nanthropophily of C. pipiens may in some areas is attributed\r\nto climate changes in Europe (Rettich, 2002).\r\n80 Dar and Wani\r\nThe northern range of the occurrences of endemic\r\nmalaria has been estimated to coincide with a summer\r\nisotherm of 16°C. Climatic factors that increase the\r\ninoculation rate of Plasmodium parasites, as well as the\r\nbreeding activity of Anopheles mosquitoes, are considered\r\nthe most important cause of epidemic outbreaks of malaria\r\nin no endemic areas. According to malaria models under\r\nclimate change scenarios, the risk of malaria epidemics would\r\nrise substantially in tropical and temperate regions (Hunter,\r\n2003).\r\nMALARIA\r\nMalaria is the most important tropical disease with more\r\nthan half of the world’s population living in areas of risk\r\nand with an estimated 300-500 million cases and 1.5-2.7\r\nmillion deaths each year. It has been on the rise in many\r\nparts of Africa, with the mortality in young children almost\r\ndoubling from the 1980s to the 1990s (Gubler, 2002).\r\nWidespread drug resistance in the parasites and\r\ninsecticide resistance among Anopheles mosquito vectors\r\nhave complicated malaria control. Malaria is endemic in all\r\nparts of India except at elevations above 1800 m and in\r\nsome coastal areas (Sharma, 1996). The principal vectors,\r\nwhich cause malaria in most parts of India, are the An.\r\nculicifacies – a rural vector, An. stephensi – an urban vector\r\nand An. fluviatilis a resident of hilly-forested areas. Periodic\r\nepidemics of malaria occur every five to seven years (Sharma,\r\n1996). As recent as in the year 1998, about 20,000 people\r\nand an estimated 577,000 DALYs (disability-adjusted life\r\nyears) were lost due to malaria in India (WHO, 1999).\r\nMalaria is also the most common imported disease in\r\nthe United States, where Anopheline mosquito vectors still\r\nexist (Gubler, 1998). Until after the end of World War II,\r\nmalaria was endemic throughout much of southern Europe.\r\nThe Balkans, Italy, Greece and Portugal were particularly\r\naffected, although seasonal epidemics or outbreaks occurred\r\nas far north as Scandinavia, Finland, Norway and southern\r\nSweden. The area of malaria distribution in Europe peaked\r\nat the beginning of the twentieth century. Soon after the\r\nwar, intensive control measures were initiated and by 1970\r\nthe WHO declared malaria eradicated from Europe. However,\r\npopulations of potential Anopheles vectors of malaria remain\r\nhigh in many countries of the continent and their presence\r\nposses the risk of renewed transmission. The WHO Regional\r\nOffice for Europe reported a total of 15,528 cases of imported\r\nmalaria in Europe in the year 2000 (Gubler, 2002). Local\r\ntransmission has also frequently occurred in Europe in the\r\nform of airport malaria. This refers to the transmission of\r\nmalaria as a result of the inadvertent transport of live, malariainfected\r\nmosquitoes aboard aircraft arriving from tropical\r\nmalaria-endemic countries (Gratz, 2000). The most serious\r\nproblem of resurgent malaria is in the newly independent\r\nstates (Azerbaijan, Tajikistan) and in Turkey; due to an influx\r\nof refugees from malaria endemic areas, the breakdown in\r\nhealth services, and the lack of vector control measures in\r\nmost of these states, as well as in the failure to carry out\r\nadequate malaria surveillance and control measures (Alten,\r\n2001).\r\nLEISHMANIASIS\r\nLeishmaniasis, which comes next after malaria is a\r\nparasitic infection transmitted by the bite of an infected\r\nfemale sand fly whose hosts are animals, such as dogs or\r\nrodents, or human beings. Leishmaniasis is a highly focal\r\ndisease with widely scattered foci. The parasite may survive\r\nfor decades in asymptomatic infected people, who are of\r\ngreat importance for the transmission since they can spread\r\nvisceral leishmaniasis indirectly through the sand flies. The\r\nparasites can also be transmitted directly from person to\r\nperson through the sharing of infected needles which is\r\noften the case with the Leishmania/HIV co-infection (Desjeux\r\nand UNAIDS, 1998). The disease has four main forms,\r\ndepending on the parasite species and the cellular immune\r\nsystem of the patient:\r\nCutaneous leishmaniasis produces skin lesions mainly\r\non the face, arms and legs. Although this form is often selfhealing,\r\nit can create serious disability and permanent scars.\r\nAfter recovery or successful treatment, cutaneous\r\nleishmaniasis induces immunity to re-infection by the species\r\nof Leishmania that caused the disease.\r\nDiffuse cutaneous leishmaniasis is difficult to treat due\r\nto disseminated lesions that resemble leprosy and do not\r\nheal spontaneously. This form especially is related to a\r\ndefective immune system and it is often characterized by\r\nrelapses after treatment.\r\nMucocutaneous leishmaniasis, also called ‘espundia’ in\r\nSouth America, causes disfiguring lesions to the face; it\r\ndestroys the mucous membranes of the nose, mouth and\r\nthroat. Reconstructive surgery of deformities is an important\r\npart of therapy.\r\nVisceral leishmaniasis, also known as ‘Kala azar’, is\r\ncharacterized by irregular fever, weight loss, swelling of the\r\nliver and spleen and anaemia. It is the most severe form of\r\nLeishmaniasis, and is usually fatal if left untreated. The\r\nincubation period can be months or years and, unlike the\r\ncutaneous forms of leishmaniasis, it involves the internal\r\norgans. After treatment and recovery, patients may develop\r\nchronic cutaneous leishmaniasis that requires long and\r\nexpensive treatment.\r\nLeishmaniasis has a long history. Designs on pre-\r\nColombian pottery and the existence of thousand-year old\r\nsculls with evidence of leishmaniasis prove that the disease\r\nhas been present in the Americas for a long time. Today, an\r\nestimated 12 million cases of leishmaniasis exist worldwide\r\nwith an estimated number of 1.5-2 million new cases occurring\r\nannually; 1-1.5 million cases of cutaneous leishmaniasis and\r\n500 000 cases of visceral Leishmaniasis (WHO, 1993).\r\nThe geographical distribution of leishmaniasis is\r\nrestricted to tropical and temperate regions, the living area\r\nof the sand fly. The leishmaniasis is considered to be\r\nendemic in 88 countries (16 developed countries and 72\r\ndeveloping countries) on four continents. 90% of cases with\r\nDar and Wani 81\r\ncutaneous forms of leishmaniasis occur in Afghanistan,\r\nAlgeria, Brazil, Iran, Peru, Saudi Arabia and Syria, while 90%\r\nper cent of visceral leishmaniasis cases are found in\r\nBangladesh, Brazil, India, Nepal and Sudan (WHO, 1996).\r\nHistorically, African sleeping sickness transmitted by the\r\ntsetse fly, has been a major impediment to the social and\r\neconomic development of Central and East Africa. In the\r\npast 20 years, major epidemics have occurred in East and\r\nCentral Africa, mainly because control programs were\r\ndisrupted by war (Gubler, 1998).\r\nTick-borne diseases are also sensitive to climatic\r\nconditions but favor cooler temperatures (Petz et. al., 1996).\r\nDocumented increases in the incidence of Tick-borne\r\nencephalitides over the last decades have been reported\r\nfrom many countries in Europe, as the result of increased\r\ndensities of vector tick species (Gubler, 2002).\r\nLYME DISEASE\r\nLyme disease, transmitted by Ixodes scapularis or\r\npacificus ticks is caused by Borrelia burgdorferi.\r\nDiscovered in the United States in 1975, the disease has\r\ncontinued to increase in incidence and geographic\r\ndistribution since national surveillance was started in 1982.\r\nIt is the most commonly reported vector-borne disease in\r\nEurope and North America; its incidence is clearly increasing,\r\nand new species of Borrelia are continuously being found.\r\nAmong the reasons for this increase is an ecological change\r\nsuch as reforestation that favors greater densities of tick\r\nvector populations and increased exposure of persons to\r\ntick bites when visiting endemic areas (Nurdan, 2005).\r\nPLAGUE\r\nPlague, is the original emerging disease, having caused\r\nmajor pandemics. Like many other vector-borne diseases,\r\nplague was controlled with antibiotics, insecticides and rat\r\ncontrol in the latter half of the 20th century. In recent years,\r\nhowever, epidemic plague has resurged, most notably in\r\nAfrica, with an average of nearly 3,000 cases reported\r\nannually (Gubler, 1998).\r\nONCHOCERCIASIS\r\nOnchocerciasis or river blindness vector requires fastflowing\r\nwater for successfully reproduction and the adult\r\nvector can be spread by wind. According to the increased\r\ntemperature and precipitation levels, black fly populations\r\nmay increase by as much as 25% at their current breeding\r\nsites (Patz et. al., 2000).\r\nSCHISTOSOMIASIS\r\nAmong other vector-borne diseases affected by climate\r\nchanges, Schistosomiasis has increased in prevalence in arid\r\nwarm regions primarily from expansion of irrigation systems\r\nwhere snails serve as the intermediate host (Hunter, 2003).\r\nARBOVIRAL DISEASE\r\nViral diseases transmitted by blood-feeding arthropods\r\n(arboviral diseases) are among the most important of the\r\nemerging infectious diseases public health problems facing\r\nthe world at the beginning of the third millennium (Gratz,\r\n2003). These include Dengue, Dengue hemorrhagic fever,\r\nYellow Fever, Japanese Encephalitis, West Nile Fever,\r\nKyasanur Forest disease, Venezuelan equine encephalitis,\r\nEpidemic poly arthritis, Barmah forest disease and Mayaro\r\nRift Valley Fever, Oropouche, and Crimenean-Congo\r\nhemorrhagic fever. There are currently 534 viruses registered\r\nin the International Catalogue of Arboviruses, of which 40%\r\nare known or probable arboviruses; 25% have caused\r\ndocumented illness (Gubler, 1998). Although some\r\narboviruses that cause human disease such as Barmah\r\nForest disease in Australia have been newly recognized, the\r\ngreatest problem is by far the viruses mentioned above.\r\nArboviruses have a worldwide distribution. But, in the last\r\ntwo decades, the geographic distribution of both vectors\r\nand viruses has expanded globally. The geographic\r\ndistribution of each Arbovirus is restricted by the ecological\r\nparameters governing its transmission cycle. These cycles\r\nare usually silent and undetected in nature until some\r\nenvironmental change allows the virus to escape the primary\r\ncycle via a secondary vector or vertebrate host, or when\r\nhumans invade or encroach on the nidus of infection.\r\nMosquitoes are by far the most important vectors of\r\narboviruses, and birds and rodents are the most important\r\nvertebrate reservoir hosts. These zoonotic viruses circulate\r\nin nature either in an Aedes-mammal, Anopheles-mammal or\r\nCulex-bird transmission cycles (Lundstrom, 1999).\r\nDENGUE\r\nThe Dengue viruses are the most widespread\r\ngeographically of the arboviruses and are found in tropical\r\nand subtropical areas where 2.5-3 billion people are at risk\r\nof infection with 50-100 million cases of Dengue fever and\r\n500.000 cases of DHF. It is an old disease that distributed\r\nworldwide in the tropics during the 18th and 19th centuries\r\nwhen the shipping industry and commerce were expanding.\r\nBoth the principal mosquito vector, Aedes aegypti and the\r\nviruses responsible for Dengue fever was spread via sailing\r\nships. In those times because of the slow mode of\r\ntransportation, epidemics were infrequent with intervals of\r\n10-40 years. The global epidemiology and transmission\r\ndynamics of dengue viruses were changed in Southeast Asia\r\nduring World War II. Today, dengue fever causes more\r\nillness and death than any other Arbovirus disease of human\r\n(Solomon, 2001). New dengue virus strains and serotypes\r\nwill likely continue to move between areas where Aedes\r\naegypti occurs in infected air travelers, resulting in increased\r\nfrequency of epidemic activity and increased incidence of\r\nDengue hemorrhagic fever. Although funding for dengue\r\nvaccine development has been sparse, good progress has\r\nbeen made over the past ten years (Kinney and Huang,\r\n2001).\r\nCurrently, Dengue viruses are being transmitted in the\r\ntropics between 30° north and 20° south latitude, since\r\nfrosts or sustained cold weather kills adult mosquitoes and\r\noverwintering eggs and larvae. Warming trends therefore\r\n82 Dar and Wani\r\ncan shift vector or disease distribution to higher latitudes\r\nor altitudes as was observed in Mexico when dengue\r\nreached an altitude of 1700m during the unseasonably warm\r\nsummer in 1998. Temperature also affects the transmission\r\ndynamics of dengue, because warmer temperatures reduce\r\nthe size of Aedes aegypti individuals, smaller adults must\r\nfeed more frequently to develop egg batches, resulting in\r\ndouble feeding (Hunter, 2003).\r\nYELLOW FEVER\r\nYellow fever is an old, well-known disease that caused\r\nmajor epidemics in the Americas and in Africa from 17th to\r\n20th centuries. Like Dengue and DHF, these were primarily\r\nurban epidemics transmitted by Aedes aegypti (Gubler, 2002).\r\nWEST NILE VIRUS (WN VIRUS)\r\nWest Nile virus is the latest example of invasion by\r\nexotic viruses. West Nile virus was first isolated in 1937\r\nfrom the blood of a febrile patient in the West Nile district\r\nof Northern Uganda. During 1994-2000, epidemics of WNV\r\nmeningoencephalitis occurred at a new alarming rate in North\r\nAfrica, Europe, North America and the Middle East (Deubel\r\net. al., 2001; Campbell et al 2002).\r\nWest Nile virus was first detected in the United States\r\nin September 1999 during the investigation of an outbreak\r\nof encephalitis in humans in New York City (White et al.,\r\n2001). The dramatic appearance of epidemic\r\nmeningoencephalitis in New York City in 1999 is an unsettling\r\nreminder of the ability of viruses, including arboviruses, to\r\njump continents and hemispheres. WNV rapidly spread\r\nacross the United States and invaded California during 2003\r\n(Reisen, et. al., 2001). The continued movement west into\r\nlarge population centers in California increases the urgency\r\nof continued efforts to develop intervention methods\r\n(Campbell et. al., 2002).\r\nWNV is mainly transmitted by Culex mosquitoes.\r\nCompared with most arboviruses, however, WNV has been\r\nidentified from an exceptionally broad range of species. Aedes\r\nalbopictus and Culex erraticus were recorded as the vector\r\nspecies for the first time in New York State (Kulasekera, et.\r\nal., 2001). After that, in North America only, the virus has\r\nbeen identified in 43 different species of mosquito. With\r\nsuch a broad vector range, expansion of the geographic\r\ndistribution of WNV into new areas and its establishment\r\nseems inevitable (Granwehr, 2004).\r\nIt was recorded that Israeli researchers in the 1950s\r\nwere the first to characterize the clinical presentation of WN\r\nfever, but by the end of the 20th century, WN virus infection\r\nwas an almost forgotten disease in Israel. The vectors of\r\nWN virus in Israel were observed as Culex species, Culex\r\nPipiens and Culex Perexiguus (Weinberger et. al., 2001).\r\nBirds are the natural reservoir hosts for WN virus, which\r\nhas been shown to infect at least 111 bird species in North\r\nAmerica only (Campbell et. al., 2002). In North America, WN\r\nvirus seems to be particularly virulent in species belong to\r\nthe family Corvidae (e.g., crows and jays) (Komar 2000) and\r\nthese have a central role in dead-bird based surveillance\r\nprogrammes for detecting and tracking the virus (Campbell\r\net al., 2002) Bird deaths due to WN virus are unusual outside\r\nNorth America, with the exception of deaths of geese in\r\nIsrael and pigeons in Egypt (Bernard et. al., 2000) Whether\r\nhigh avian death rates in the United States are due to higher\r\nvirulence of the circulating strains or to higher susceptibility\r\nin North American birds require further evaluation (Petersen\r\nand Roehrig, 2001). Then it was recorded that the unique\r\nsusceptibility of young domestic geese in Israel in 1997-\r\n2000 to WNV and the isolation of similar strains from\r\nmigrating White storks in Israel and Egypt suggest that the\r\nrecent isolates are more pathogenic for certain avian species.\r\nInfected birds have recently been found in the Caribbean\r\nand the infection will no doubt continue to spread through\r\nthe Americas (Gubler, 2002).\r\nTransportation of WN virus strains between different\r\nareas by migratory viraemic birds along established flyways\r\nis probably a common occurrence. In the eastern hemisphere,\r\nWN virus is thought to be regularly introduced in\r\nMediterranean and European countries by birds (Rappole\r\net. al.,). Campbell et. al., 2002 emphasized that WN virus\r\nwill almost certainly continue to spread into the contiguous\r\nwestern parts of the USA over the next years, primarily via\r\nthe movement of viraemic birds.\r\nA broad range of mammalian species are also\r\nsusceptible to natural or experimental infection with WN\r\nvirus. In the USA during 1999-2001, nine mammalian species\r\n(human beings, horses, cats, rabbits, skunks, squirrels,\r\nchipmunks and two species of bats) were found to be\r\nnaturally infected with WN virus. The role, if any, that\r\nmammals play in the WN virus transmission cycle is\r\nunknown (Komar, 2003).\r\nNo human vaccine for WN virus is currently available.\r\nSo, effective prevention of the disease depends on integrated\r\narboviral surveillance and vector mosquito control\r\nprogrammes to reduce the density of vector species,\r\nincluding those that might serve as a bridge from birds to\r\nhuman beings. Cases were also of WNV transmission\r\ntransplacentally by transfusion, by lactation, by organ\r\ntransplants as new routes of transmission (Granwehr et al.,\r\n2004). Werner pointed that the scope of infectiology keeps\r\nwidening, while the threat of bioterrorism cannot be\r\nneglected (Werner, 2001).','Javid Ahmad Dar and Khursheed Ahmad Wani (2010). Environmental changes and emerging vector-borne diseases: A review. Biological Forum — An International Journal, 2(1): 78-83. '),(4704,'129','Skilled human resource development for fisheries sector','Asfa M. Yasin','20 ASFA.pdf','',1,'-','-','-','Fisheries production of the order of 6.4 million metric\r\ntones has taken India to 3rd position in the world in Fisheries\r\nand 2nd in Aquaculture (Ayyappan and Diwan, 2007). Inland\r\nfish production contributes 55% in the total. Fish as\r\ncommodity is extremely precious as protein source. To\r\ncombat problem of malnutrition it is an important and cheap\r\nsource of protein. Present per capita availability of fish in\r\nIndia is 9.0kg. With increasing population and for combating\r\nmalnutrition, fish production is to be increased. Fish besides\r\ndomestic market is also revenue generating from export\r\nmarket. An amount of 7,200 crores is generated from export\r\nof fish annually. Sea food, processed fish products and other\r\nvalue additions, makes fish an attractive commodity. Fisheries\r\nsector besides as commodity also offers employment oriented\r\navenues. Presently there are 3.5 million fisher folk and\r\nmillions of people are involved in other employment\r\ngeneration avenues in the fisheries and allied sectors.\r\nIt is true that in wake of globalization, liberation and\r\nprivatization, flow of technologies has increased. Fisheries\r\nand allied sectors are also transforming to industries at a\r\nfaster pace. Therefore, there is demand for knowledgeable\r\nand skilled human resource for the development of standard\r\nproducts and services in the sector. Presently, skilled\r\nworkforce to undertake these operations is developed onthe-\r\njob by the industries and farms involved in fisheries\r\nrelated enterprises. The skilled workforce/ human resource\r\nneed to be prepared through Vocational Education and\r\nTraining system. At present with 395,161 and 64 students\r\nintake capacity in Bachelors, Masters and Doctoral\r\nProgramme respectively annually from 14 colleges of\r\nfisheries under State Agriculture Universities (SAUs) and\r\ndeemed university at Mumbai, aspirants for white color job\r\nare coming out (Birader and Kumar). These students with\r\ndegrees prefer supervisory jobs while the fact is that we\r\nneed to have knowledgeable skilled workforce to operate at\r\nlower and middle levels i.e., on-field-operations. This\r\nmultiplier effect will create knowledge society. This is\r\npossible by launching Vocational Education and Training\r\n(VET) programmes nation-wide, to offer these courses at\r\nsenior secondary level (MES, 2009).\r\nGovernment of India has proposed Modular Employable\r\nSkill (MES) development programme to equip people with\r\nmarketable skills. In view of fisheries being potential area\r\nfor employment generation, this sector has also been\r\nincluded in the Govt. of India’s MES programme. MES\r\nprogrammes in fisheries sector is required to gear up inland,\r\nmarine and fish processing areas with skilled human resource.\r\nUnder MES programme in fisheries sector, the proposed\r\nmodules for curricula development include fish breeding,\r\nmussel culture, fish feed preparation, fish processing, fish\r\nboat building, etc. It is suggested that MES programme in\r\nfisheries may be implemented from state, district, block levels\r\nand up to cluster of villages. In this paper attempt has been\r\nmade to present strategies and various dimensions related\r\nto the implementation, examination, accreditation and\r\ncertification of MES in fisheries from school to village level\r\nskill centres, possibly in collaboration with professional\r\nICAR Institutions/ Fisheries Colleges and Krishi Vigyan\r\nKendras (KVK) of state agriculture universities.\r\nMODULAR EMPLOYABLE SKILL (MES)\r\nPROGRAMME\r\nMES refers to minimum skill set required to make a\r\nperson employable. The term modular depicts as a shortterm\r\nmodular course for the purpose of specific skill\r\ndevelopment. The conceptual frame work of MES envisage\r\nthe following dimensions as advantages :\r\n(i) Skill development as per market demand\r\n(ii) Enabling skill up-gradation, and/or multi-skilling\r\n(iii) Flexible delivery mechanism with multi-entry and\r\nmulti-exit opportunities\r\n(iv) As an alternative training system for life-long learning\r\n(v) Recognition of prior learning by testing and\r\ncertification.\r\n(vi) System offering accumulation of credits leading to\r\nacquire qualification equivalent to National Trade\r\nCertificate\r\n(vii) Offering of courses of different levels 1 to 3 as per\r\nneed of employee’s organizations\r\n(viii) Advantageous to cover large canvas of target groups\r\nsuch as educated unemployed and under-employed\r\nyouth (higher level courses), school drop-outs or\r\nout-of-school youth (basic level courses), women\r\nand girls, SC/ST, Minority groups, BPL, etc.\r\nMES DEVELOPMENT PROGRAMME IN\r\nFISHERIES SECTOR\r\nThe induction of educational component combining\r\ntraining, forms VET programme. This is critical input for\r\ndeveloping skilled knowledge society. The educational\r\ncomponent of any area facilitates over all development and\r\nequip a person with soft skills. Structure of the curriculum\r\nas per DACUM process include content of knowledge, skills\r\nand attitudes for undertaking particular task. Some\r\noccupation based modules have been listed below with\r\nknowledge, skill and attitude required for the accomplishment\r\nof the task.','Asfa M. Yasin (2010). Skilled human resource development for fisheries sector. Biological Forum — An International Journal, 2(1): 84-87. '),(4705,'128','Physiological and biochemical studies on the effect of waste water on\r\nselected crop plants','B.R. Bamniya, Vidhya Kapasya and C.S. Kapoor','1 CS KAPOOR.pdf','',1,'The increasing pace of industrialization in public and private sectors along with urbanization,\r\npopulation explosion and green revolution are reflected in varying degree of pollution of water, soil and air. The\r\npresent study has been carried out to understand the effect of waste water on biochemical contents of Brassica\r\noleracea, Spinacia oleracea. The physico-chemical analysis of waste water showed that it was basic in nature and\r\nbrownish in colour. The higher amount of Alkalinity, COD, TDS were also present in the wastewater. The\r\nwastewater severally affects crop plants and soil properties when used for irrigation. The pigment analyses viz.\r\nchlorophyll ‘a’, chlorophyll ‘b’, total chlorophyll, protein, amino acid, sugar contents were analyzed in present\r\nstudy','Waste water irrigation, Biochemical response, sewage','The increasing pace of industrialization in public and private sectors along with urbanization,\r\npopulation explosion and green revolution are reflected in varying degree of pollution of water, soil and air. The\r\npresent study has been carried out to understand the effect of waste water on biochemical contents of Brassica\r\noleracea, Spinacia oleracea. The physico-chemical analysis of waste water showed that it was basic in nature and\r\nbrownish in colour. The higher amount of Alkalinity, COD, TDS were also present in the wastewater. The\r\nwastewater severally affects crop plants and soil properties when used for irrigation. The pigment analyses viz.\r\nchlorophyll ‘a’, chlorophyll ‘b’, total chlorophyll, protein, amino acid, sugar contents were analyzed in present\r\nstudy','With development of industries and other chemical\r\nprocessing units the pollution of water has become a greater\r\nenvironmental concern because polluted water has adverse\r\neffect on the flora and fauna of the particular area. Industrial\r\nwaste disposal and water pollutants are sources of toxic\r\nmetal in the environment. One of the possessing problem\r\nfacing metropolitan areas today is disposal of large volume\r\nliquid and solid wastes generated by urban & industrial\r\nactivities. Use of effluents without treatment may be toxic\r\nor harmful for economic crop plants. Use of industrial or\r\nmunicipal waste water for irrigation purpose is a common\r\npractice (Singh et al.,2004; Feign et al., 1991). The effluent\r\nnot only affects the plant growth but also deteriorate the\r\nsoil properties when used for irrigation. In the present study\r\neffect of waste water on selected crop plants in term of\r\ngrowth, yield and biochemical parameters are studied.\r\nWhether Ayad river effluent could be utilized for irrigation\r\nof crop plants like Brassica oleracea, Spinacia oleracea..\r\nMATERIAL AND METHOD\r\nDescription of a study area. The ‘city of lakes’ i.e.,\r\nUdaipur is situated about 600 m above the mean sea level\r\nand is located among the lush green hills of Aravali ranging\r\nbetween 24°35 N latitude and 73°42 E longitude. The Ayad\r\nriver is a tributary of the Berch river. It originates in the\r\nhills of Udaipur district of Rajasthan in western India and\r\nflows through the city of Udaipur before it joins the Bearch.\r\nWater samples were collected from Ayad river of Udaipur\r\ncity in plastic cans brought to the laboratory. The\r\nPhysio-chemical parameters of the effluents were analyzed\r\nby APHA (1971) method and further this water is used in\r\nplantation of crop plants as Brassica oleracea, Spinacia\r\noleracea in pots. Biochemical parameters studied were\r\namount of chlorophyll a, chlorophyll b, total chlorophyll,\r\ncarotenoid using (acetone-soluble pigments)\r\nspectrophotometer Systronix UV-VIS 108 model (Jensen\r\net al., 1978) Total carbohydrate and total protein of the plant\r\nPhysiological and biochemical studies on the effect of waste water on\r\nselected crop plants\r\nB.R. Bamniya, Vidhya Kapasya and C.S. Kapoor\r\nDepartment of Environmental Sciences,\r\nMohan Lal Sukhadia University. Udaipur, (RJ)\r\nABSTRACT : The increasing pace of industrialization in public and private sectors along with urbanization,\r\npopulation explosion and green revolution are reflected in varying degree of pollution of water, soil and air. The\r\npresent study has been carried out to understand the effect of waste water on biochemical contents of Brassica\r\noleracea, Spinacia oleracea. The physico-chemical analysis of waste water showed that it was basic in nature and\r\nbrownish in colour. The higher amount of Alkalinity, COD, TDS were also present in the wastewater. The\r\nwastewater severally affects crop plants and soil properties when used for irrigation. The pigment analyses viz.\r\nchlorophyll ‘a’, chlorophyll ‘b’, total chlorophyll, protein, amino acid, sugar contents were analyzed in present\r\nstudy\r\nKeywords : Waste water irrigation, Biochemical response, sewage\r\nISSN : 0975-1130\r\nBiological Forum — An International Journal, 2(2): 1-3(2010)\r\nTable 1 : Physicochemical analysis of Ayad river waste\r\nwater used for irrigation.\r\nParameters Mean SD Is standards for\r\nirrigation\r\npH 7.83 0.485077 5.5-9.0\r\nTDS 1050 139.1941 2100\r\nChloride 143.71 50.58173 600\r\nAlkalinity 256.6667 60.27714 —\r\nTotal hardness 457 89.43713 —\r\nCOD 136.6667 1.154701 —\r\nNitrate 0.670333 0.387402 20\r\nPhosphate 0.102 0.072333 —\r\nFig. 1. Map of the study area showing different study sites.\r\n2 Bamniya, Kapasya and Kapoor\r\nsamples as a soluble fraction were also determined\r\n(Dubois et al., 1951, Lowry et al., 1951). Various data\r\nobtained were subjected to correlation and regression\r\nstudies and results were discussed on comparative basis.\r\nRESULT\r\nThe physico-chemical parameters of Ayad river waste\r\nwater (Table-2) reveled correlation between different\r\nparameters of waste water. pH shows positive correlation\r\nwith TDS, Cl, hardness, COD, phosphate and negative\r\ncorrelation with alkalinity or nitrite. Correlation between TDS\r\n& Cl was (0.993), TDS and hardness (0.956), TDS & COD\r\n(0.933) and TDS & phosphate (0.998) means positive\r\ncorrelation. Negative correlation between TDS & alkalinity\r\nwas (–0.446), TDS or nitrate (–0.933). Chloride showed\r\nnegative correlation with only nitrite (–0.886) and positive\r\ncorrelation with all other parameters. Correlation between\r\nalkalinity and hardness was (0.9970) and alkalinity and nitrate\r\n(0.095) or between alkalinity and COD was (–0.095) or\r\nalkalinity & phosphate (–0.5). Hardness showed positive\r\ncorrelation between COD (0.997) or phosphate (0.937) or\r\nnegative correlation with (–0.997) correlation between COD\r\nand Phosphate was (0.909) and below COD & nitrite was\r\n(–1) nitrite showed negative correlation with phosphate\r\n(–0.909). Nitrate show negative correlation with Phosphate.\r\nFrom the results of biochemical parameters studied ( table–\r\n3) we see that total chlorophyll content (0.01632 mg/g),\r\nchlorophyll a (0.00526 mg/g), chlorophyll b (0.0069 mg/g)\r\nand carotenoids (0.368 mg/g) were present in these amount\r\nin treated crop plant Brassica oleracea. In the control crop\r\nBrassica oleracea total chlorophyll content was recorded\r\n(0.0248 mg/g), chlorophyll a (0.0101 mg/g), chlorophyll b\r\n(0.0271 mg/g). Total carbohydrate content (1.2 mg/g) present\r\nin treated Brassica oleracea & (0.76 mg/g) in control crop.\r\nIn treated crop total protein was (3.26 mg/g) & in the control\r\ncrop (4.83mg/g). Total amino acid content was recorded in\r\ntreated crop (0.84 mg/g) & In the control (2.22 mg/g). Total\r\nchlorophyll content (0.0174 mg/g), chlorophyll a (0.0163\r\nmg/g), chlorophyll b (0.0118 mg/g) and carotenoids (0.0464\r\nmg/g) were present in these amount in other treated crop\r\nplant Spinaccia oleracea. In the control crop was recorded\r\ntotal chlorophyll content (0.0496 mg/g), chlorophyll a\r\n(0.0294 mg/g), chlorophyll b (0.0305 mg/g), carotenoid (0.1832\r\nmg/g) Total carbohydrate content (0.74 mg/g) present in\r\ntreated & (0.90 mg/g) in control crop. In treated crop total\r\nprotein was (3.58 mg/g) & in the control crop (4.13 mg/g).\r\nTotal amino acid content was recorded in treated crop (0.53\r\nmg/g) & in the control (2.06 mg/g).','B.R. Bamniya, Vidhya Kapasya and C.S. Kapoor (2010). Physiological and biochemical studies on the effect of waste water on selected crop plants. Biological Forum — An International Journal, 2(2): 1-3. '),(4706,'128','Biosorption of Chromium (VI) from an aqueous solution using\r\nAzadirachta indica. A. Juss. (Neem) and activated charcoal:\r\nA comparative study','S.P. Tawde and S.A. Bhalerao','2 SA BHALERAO.pdf','',1,'Industrial water pollution is a potential threat to human health mainly because of the nonbiodegradable,\r\nhazardous heavy metals. Among these heavy metals Chromium is of considerable concern.\r\nVarious methods adopted for removal of heavy metals include chemical precipitation, membrane separation, ion\r\nexchange and adsorption. In case of adsorption, the generally used adsorbents like activated carbon, silica,\r\nalumina, etc. are expensive. This has prompted the use of natural materials as adsorbents in order to develop\r\ncheaper alternatives, which can be disposed off without regeneration due to their lower cost. And so, Azadirachta\r\nindica (Neem) leaf powder was tried for the removal of Chromium. The newly developed adsorbents should be\r\nas effective as (or more than) the conventional ones. Hence in the present work, Azadirachta indica (Neem) leaf\r\npowder and Activated charcoal are compared for their adsorptive capacity to remove Chromium (VI) from\r\naqueous solution. The equilibrium studies were systematically carried out in a batch process covering various\r\nprocess parameters that include agitation time, adsorbent dosage, initial concentration of Chromium, volume of\r\naqueous solution and pH of aqueous solution. Adsorption behaviour was found to follow the Freundlich\'s\r\nAdsorption Isotherm in case of both the adsorbents but the Neem powder was proved to be more promising than\r\nCharcoal in the removal of Chromium.','Adsorption, neem, chromium, charcoal, kinetics, isotherm.','Hence by considering all the aspects of requirements\r\nlike, the time which can be spent for particular volumes of\r\neffluent treatment, efficiency required, the initial chromium\r\nconcentration, the economic aspect, quality of effluent\r\nregarding its pH, an industry can choose the adsorbent,\r\neither neem or charcoal','Advances in science and technology have brought\r\ntremendous progress in many spheres of development, but\r\nin the process, also contributed to degradation of\r\nenvironment all over the globe due to very little attention\r\npaid to the treatment of industrial effluents. The discharge\r\nof non-biodegradable Heavy metals like Cu, Zn, Ni, Pb, Cd,\r\nand Cr into water stream is hazardous because the\r\nconsumption of polluted water causes various health\r\nproblems. Among these heavy metals, pollution by\r\nchromium is of major concern as the metal is used in\r\nelectroplating, leather tanning, metal finishing, and chromate\r\npreparation.\r\nChromium exists in +3 and +6 oxidation states, as all\r\nother oxidation states are not stable in aqueous solutions.\r\nBoth valences of chromium are potentially harmful (Dakiky\r\net al., 2002).When chromium enters the gastric system,\r\nepigastric pain, nausea, vomiting, severe diarrhoea, corrosion\r\nof skin, respiratory tract and lung carcinoma are noticed.\r\nThe discharge limit from industry is less than 1 mg/L.\r\nChromium is hazardous to health when its limit in potable\r\nwater exceeds 0.5 mg/L.\r\nConventional methods for removing Cr(VI) ions from\r\nindustrial wastewater include reduction (Kim et al., 2002),\r\nreduction followed by chemical precipitation (Ozer\r\net al.,1997), adsorption on activated carbon (Lotfi and\r\nAdhoum, 2002), solvent extraction (Mauri et al., 2001), freeze\r\nseparation, reverse osmosis (Padilla and Tavani, 1999), ion\r\nexchange (Rengaraj et al., 2003) and electrolytic methods\r\n(Namasivayam and Yamuna, 1995). This has prompted the\r\nuse of natural materials as adsorbents in order to develop\r\ncheaper alternatives.\r\nBiosorption refers to passive metal uptake by different\r\nforms of biomass, which may be dead or alive. It is a\r\npromising alternative method to treat industrial effluents,\r\nmainly because of its low cost and high metal binding\r\ncapacity. Fly ash from thermal power plant (Panday et al.,\r\n1984), waste slurry from a fertiliser plant (Srivastava et al.,\r\n1989) and Fe(III)/Cr(III) hydroxide obtained from the\r\npetrochemical industry (Namasivayam and Ranganathan,\r\n1993), blast furnace flue dust (Patnaik and Das, 1995) and\r\nphoto film waste sludge (Selvaraj et al., 1997) have been\r\nexamined for the removal of hexavalent chromium. The\r\nadsorption of Cr(VI) on bituminous coal (Rawat and Singh,\r\n1992), sphagnum peat moss (Sharma and Forster, 1993),\r\ncoconut husks and palm pressed fibres (Tan et al., 1993),\r\nsawdust (Dikshit 1989), sugarcane bagasse, sugarbeet pulp\r\nand maize cob (Sharma and Forster, 1994) has been reported.\r\nBiosorption of Chromium (VI) from an aqueous solution using\r\nAzadirachta indica. A. Juss. (Neem) and activated charcoal:\r\nA comparative study\r\nS.P. Tawde and S.A. Bhalerao*\r\nDepartment of Environmental Science, Birla College, Kalyan (M.S.)\r\nEnvironmental Science Research Laboratory\r\n*Department of Botany, Wilson College, Mumbai (M.S.)\r\nABSTRACT : Industrial water pollution is a potential threat to human health mainly because of the nonbiodegradable,\r\nhazardous heavy metals. Among these heavy metals Chromium is of considerable concern.\r\nVarious methods adopted for removal of heavy metals include chemical precipitation, membrane separation, ion\r\nexchange and adsorption. In case of adsorption, the generally used adsorbents like activated carbon, silica,\r\nalumina, etc. are expensive. This has prompted the use of natural materials as adsorbents in order to develop\r\ncheaper alternatives, which can be disposed off without regeneration due to their lower cost. And so, Azadirachta\r\nindica (Neem) leaf powder was tried for the removal of Chromium. The newly developed adsorbents should be\r\nas effective as (or more than) the conventional ones. Hence in the present work, Azadirachta indica (Neem) leaf\r\npowder and Activated charcoal are compared for their adsorptive capacity to remove Chromium (VI) from\r\naqueous solution. The equilibrium studies were systematically carried out in a batch process covering various\r\nprocess parameters that include agitation time, adsorbent dosage, initial concentration of Chromium, volume of\r\naqueous solution and pH of aqueous solution. Adsorption behaviour was found to follow the Freundlich\'s\r\nAdsorption Isotherm in case of both the adsorbents but the Neem powder was proved to be more promising than\r\nCharcoal in the removal of Chromium.\r\nKeywords : Adsorption, neem, chromium, charcoal, kinetics, isotherm.\r\nISSN : 0975-1130\r\nBiological Forum — An International Journal, 2(2): 4-10(2010)\r\nTawde and Bhalerao 5\r\nAnd so, Azadirachta indica A. Juss (Neem) leaf powder\r\nwas tried for the removal of Chromium.\r\nThe presence of niacin, praline, glutamic acid, aspartic\r\nacid, glutamine, tyrosine and alanine which contain polar\r\ngroups like –NH2, –COOH, –OH etc. in neem powder\r\ncontribute to the negative surface charge. The ingredients\r\ncontribute an electronegativity of 35.1%.\r\nThis study aims at comparative evaluation of neem leaf\r\npowder and activated charcoal for removal of Cr (VI) from\r\naqueous solution.\r\nMATERIAL AND METHODS\r\nPreparation of Adsorbents\r\nNeem: The biomaterial, mature Neem leaves\r\n(Azadirachta indica. A. Juss) belonging to family\r\nMeliaceae, were collected (2009) and were washed thrice\r\nwith water to remove dust and water soluble impurities and\r\nwere dried until the leaves became crisp. The leaves were\r\npowdered and the resulting neem powder was stored in\r\nglass bottle and used as an adsorbent.\r\nActivated Charcoal: Commercially available powdered\r\nactivated charcoal (PAC) was directly used as an adsorbent.\r\nExperimental Procedure\r\n1000 mg/L of Chromium stock solution was prepared\r\nfrom which a working standard of 300 ppm was prepared.\r\n25 ml of the aqueous solution containing 60 mg/L chromium\r\n(VI) was treated with 1 g of adsorbent in 100 ml conical\r\nflask for 30 min by shaking on a Rotary Shaker at 160 rpm\r\nat room temperature (28°C). The sample was allowed to settle\r\nand then filtered through Whatman filter paper No. 1. The\r\nfiltrate of the sample was analyzed using a\r\nspectrophotometric method of analysis of chromium (APHA,\r\n1985) for the final concentration of chromium in aqueous\r\nsolution. The percentage removal of chromium (VI) was\r\ncalculated as\r\n% Removal = Co-Ct × 100/Co\r\nWhere, Co: Initial Chromium concentration\r\nCt: Chromium concentration at equilibrium after\r\ntreatment with adsorbent.\r\nThe same experimental procedure was repeated for\r\ndifferent agitation times. The agitation time established\r\nbetween the solution and adsorbent was noted. The effects\r\nof other parameters such as initial concentrations of\r\nchromium in aqueous solution, volume and pH of aqueous\r\nsolution on % removal of chromium (VI) are obtained at\r\nthe equilibrium agitation time by following the procedure\r\ndescribed above. This procedure is followed for both the\r\nadsorbents. The values of variables studied in this\r\ninvestigation are shown in Table 1.','S.P. Tawde and S.A. Bhalerao (2010). Biosorption of Chromium (VI) from an aqueous solution using Azadirachta indica. A. Juss. (Neem) and activated charcoal: A comparative study. Biological Forum — An International Journal, 2(2): 4-10. '),(4707,'128','Incidence of Pollen Grains at an Urban Site at Gwalior (M.P.)','Madhu Gupta and A.K. Jain','3 MADHU GUPTA.pdf','',1,'The Paper presents the data on aeropalynological survey conducted during September 2006 to\r\nAugust 2007 by using Burkard Portable Spore Trap Sampler at some urban sites at Gwalior (M.P.). A total of 21\r\npollen types were observed mainly belong to Poaceae, Amaranth-Chenopodiacae, Simaroubaceae and Euphorbiaceae.\r\nMaximum pollen concentration was observed in the month of March (1290/m3) followed by April (1010/m3) and\r\nminimum in July (170/m3). Ailanthus excelsa pollens were found in maximum number (1700/m3) during the year\r\nwith the maximum counts in April (800/m3). Poaceae pollens were also high concentration (750/m3) followed by\r\nDelonix regia (360/m3) and least number were represented by species of Dalbergia, Moringa, and members of\r\nfamily Mimosaceae. The total pollens as well as individual pollen types displayed distinct seasonal periodicity in\r\ntheir incidence.','Aeropalynology, seasonal incidence, urban site Gwalior.','The Paper presents the data on aeropalynological survey conducted during September 2006 to\r\nAugust 2007 by using Burkard Portable Spore Trap Sampler at some urban sites at Gwalior (M.P.). A total of 21\r\npollen types were observed mainly belong to Poaceae, Amaranth-Chenopodiacae, Simaroubaceae and Euphorbiaceae.\r\nMaximum pollen concentration was observed in the month of March (1290/m3) followed by April (1010/m3) and\r\nminimum in July (170/m3). Ailanthus excelsa pollens were found in maximum number (1700/m3) during the year\r\nwith the maximum counts in April (800/m3). Poaceae pollens were also high concentration (750/m3) followed by\r\nDelonix regia (360/m3) and least number were represented by species of Dalbergia, Moringa, and members of\r\nfamily Mimosaceae. The total pollens as well as individual pollen types displayed distinct seasonal periodicity in\r\ntheir incidence.','Air is one of the basic needs required for the\r\nsustenance of life on the earth. The air is becoming polluted\r\nday by day due to various human activities such as mode\r\nof transportation, industries, biotic exploitation and rapid\r\ngrowth of civilization in urban areas. This implies the\r\nimportance of fresh air, which apart from containing beneficial\r\nand other gases is fast becoming a repository of\r\nmicroorganisms as also of many toxic gases and other\r\norganic and inorganic substances. These are also\r\nresponsible for atmospheric pollution which is harmful to\r\nplants, animals and mankind. This has accentuated the\r\nnecessity to analyze the atmosphere on a chemical, physical\r\nand biological basis.\r\nAeropalynological studies have gained unique\r\nimportance, as such information is an important pre-requisite\r\nto both physicians in selecting the diagnostic allergens and\r\nthe patient in planning avoidance strategies. Plants produce\r\nhuge amount of pollen grains. As shown by Durham (1946)\r\nthe pollen grains carry allergenic and enzymic protein in the\r\nexine or intine for purpose of their own recognition, reaction\r\nand germination.\r\nGwalior is a historical, cultural and industrial city, where\r\na large number of gardens exist at and around. Wild and\r\ncultivated plant species also occur in good number. A record\r\non pollen calendar indicates the presence of a large number\r\nof pollen types in the air of city. Some clinical investigations\r\nhave also indicated the prevalence of allergic disorders\r\namong the inhabitants.\r\nMATERIAL AND METHODS\r\nBurkard Portable Spore Trap Sampler was used for\r\ntrapping the pollen grains from the air at outdoor site (Old\r\nHigh-court area). The sampling was done during September\r\n2006 to August 2007 at weekly intervals. However the data\r\nhave been presented in the results in compiled form i.e.\r\nmonthwise. For catching pollen standard micro slides\r\nIncidence of Pollen Grains at an Urban Site at Gwalior (M.P.)\r\nMadhu Gupta and A.K. Jain*\r\nCollege of Life Sciences, Gwalior (M.P.) India\r\n* School of Studies in Botany, Jiwaji University, Gwalior (M.P.)\r\nABSTRACT : The Paper presents the data on aeropalynological survey conducted during September 2006 to\r\nAugust 2007 by using Burkard Portable Spore Trap Sampler at some urban sites at Gwalior (M.P.). A total of 21\r\npollen types were observed mainly belong to Poaceae, Amaranth-Chenopodiacae, Simaroubaceae and Euphorbiaceae.\r\nMaximum pollen concentration was observed in the month of March (1290/m3) followed by April (1010/m3) and\r\nminimum in July (170/m3). Ailanthus excelsa pollens were found in maximum number (1700/m3) during the year\r\nwith the maximum counts in April (800/m3). Poaceae pollens were also high concentration (750/m3) followed by\r\nDelonix regia (360/m3) and least number were represented by species of Dalbergia, Moringa, and members of\r\nfamily Mimosaceae. The total pollens as well as individual pollen types displayed distinct seasonal periodicity in\r\ntheir incidence.\r\nKey words : Aeropalynology, seasonal incidence, urban site Gwalior.\r\nISSN : 0975-1130\r\nBiological Forum — An International Journal, 2(2): 11-14(2010)\r\n(75 mm × 25 mm) of 0.8 mm thickness smeared with glycerine\r\njelly were also exposed at selected site.\r\nThe standard zone of the slide was mounted by\r\nglycerine jelly and covered with a rectangular coverslip\r\n(22 mm × 50 mm). Slides were then examined for\r\nidentification of airborne pollen types. Identification was\r\ndone with the help of reference slides and standard manuals\r\nfor pollen identification by Erdtman, G. (1952).\r\nRESULTS AND DUSCUSSION\r\nA total of 21 pollen types were observed from September\r\n2006 to August 2007 from the Old High-court. The pollen\r\ntypes mainly belonged to members of family Poaceae,\r\nAmaranth-chenopodiaceae,Simaroubaceae and Euphorbiaceae\r\n(Table : 1 and Fig. 1). Maximum pollen concentration was\r\nobserved in the month of March (1290/m³) followed by April\r\n(1010/m³) and minimum in July(170/m³) followed by December\r\n(210/m³) and June (220/M³). Ailanthus pollen type occurred\r\nin maximum number(1700/m³) during the year with the\r\nmaximum count in April (800/m³). Poaceae pollens were also\r\nin high concentration (750/m³) followed by Delonix regia\r\n(360/m³) and least number was represented by Dalbergia sp.,\r\nMoringa oleifera and members of family Mimosaceae\r\n(40/m³).\r\nPollens of Poaceae were recorded regularly throughout\r\nthe year with a maximum count in December and minimum\r\nin February. The other taxa namely Azadirachta indica,\r\nBauhinia sp. Cassia sp. Mangifera indica, Ricinus\r\ncommunis, Ailanthus excelsa and Malvaceous types. Some\r\nof the pollen types exhibited their presence for a month\r\nonly e.g. Dalbergia sp. and Callistemone lanceolatus in\r\nMarch; Moringa oleifera in November; Myrtaceae, Psidium\r\nguajava and Putranjiva roxburghii in February. The pollen\r\ntypes of Asparagus racemosus, Zizyphus for two months\r\nand Euphorbia hirta, and members of Malvaceae were\r\nrecorded for three months only.','Madhu Gupta and A.K. Jain (2010). Incidence of Pollen Grains at an Urban Site at Gwalior (M.P.). Biological Forum — An International Journal, 2(2): 11-14. '),(4708,'128','Effect of plant growth promoting Rhizobacteria on seed germination\r\nand plant growth Chickpea (Cicer arietinum L.) under in Vitro\r\nconditions','Janardan Yadav, Jay Prakash Verma and Kavindra Nath Tiwari','4 KN TIWARI.pdf','',1,'Plant growth promoting rhizobacteria (PGPR) are beneficial bacteria that colonize plant roots and\r\nenhance plant growth by a wide variety of mechanisms. Five isolates of PGPR designated as Pseudomonas\r\naeruginosa strain BHUPSB02, Pseudomonas putida strain BHUPSB04, Bacillus subtilis strain BHUPSB13,\r\nPaenibacillus polymyxa strain BHUPSB17 and Bacillus boronophilus strain BHUPSB19 were successfully isolated\r\nand characterized through 16S rDNA gene sequencing. Subsequently, an experiment was conducted under plant\r\ngrowth chamber where chickpea plants are grown in plastic cups containing soil and mixed with isolates of PGPR\r\nto investigate the effect of PGPR on the growth of chickpea plant. Isolates of PGPR induced production of plant\r\nhormones (indole acetic acid), phosphate solubilization and ammonia production to enhanced plant growth. Most\r\nof isolates resulted in a significant increase in shoot length, root length and dry matter production of shoot and\r\nroot of chickpea seedlings. Therefore, present study suggests that PGPR isolates viz. BHUPSB02, BHUPSB04 and\r\nBHUPSB13 may be used as biofertilizers to enhance the growth and productivity of chickpea.','Chickpea, PGPR, IAA, Phosphate solubilization','In the present study we have found the five bacterial\r\nstrains was significantly enhanced biomass production of\r\nchickpea. Therefore we suggest that the use of PGPR\r\nisolates BHUPSB02, BHUPSB04 and BHUPSB13 as effective\r\nbiofertilizers might be beneficial for chickpea cultivation','heterogeneous group of bacteria that can be found in the\r\nrhizosphere, at root surfaces and in association with roots,\r\nwhich can improve the extent or quality of plant growth\r\ndirectly and/or indirectly. A large array of bacteria including\r\nspecies of Pseudomonas, Azospirillum, Azotobacter,\r\nKlebsiella, Enterobacter, Alcaligenes, Arthrobacter,\r\nBurkholderia, Bacillus and Serratia have reported as PGPR\r\nto enhance plant growth (Kloepper et al., 1989; Okon and\r\nLabandera-Gonzalez, 1994; Glick, 1995). The direct growth\r\npromotion of plants by PGPR entails either providing the\r\nplant growth promoting substances that are synthesized by\r\nthe bacterium or facilitating the uptake of certain plant\r\nnutrients from the environment. The indirect plant growth\r\npromotion occurs by PGPR due to preventing deleterious\r\neffects phytopathogenic microorganisms. The exact\r\nmechanisms by which PGPR promote plant growth are not\r\nfully understood, but are thought to include (i) the ability\r\nto produce or change the concentration of plant growth\r\nregulators like indoleacetic acid, gibberellic acid, cytokinins\r\nand ethylene (Arshad and Frankenberger, 1993; Glick, 1995),\r\n(ii) asymbiotic N2 fixation (Boddey and Dobereiner, 1995),\r\n(iii) antagonism against phytopathogenic microorganisms by\r\nproduction of siderophores (Scher and Baker, 1982),\r\nantibiotics (Shanahan et al., 1992) and cyanide (Flaishman\r\net al., 1996), (iv) solubilization of mineral phosphates and\r\nother nutrients (De Freitas et al., 1997; Gaur, 1990). In\r\naddition to these traits, plant growth promoting bacterial\r\nstrains must be rhizospheric competent, able to survive and\r\nEffect of plant growth promoting Rhizobacteria on seed germination\r\nand plant growth Chickpea (Cicer arietinum L.) under in Vitro\r\nconditions\r\nJanardan Yadav,* Jay Prakash Verma** and Kavindra Nath Tiwari**\r\n*Deptt. of Soil Science and Agricultural Chemistry, Institute of Agricultural Sciences, BHU, Varanasi (U.P.) India\r\n**Deptt. of Botany, MMV, Banaras Hindu University, Varanasi (U.P.) India\r\nABSTRACT : Plant growth promoting rhizobacteria (PGPR) are beneficial bacteria that colonize plant roots and\r\nenhance plant growth by a wide variety of mechanisms. Five isolates of PGPR designated as Pseudomonas\r\naeruginosa strain BHUPSB02, Pseudomonas putida strain BHUPSB04, Bacillus subtilis strain BHUPSB13,\r\nPaenibacillus polymyxa strain BHUPSB17 and Bacillus boronophilus strain BHUPSB19 were successfully isolated\r\nand characterized through 16S rDNA gene sequencing. Subsequently, an experiment was conducted under plant\r\ngrowth chamber where chickpea plants are grown in plastic cups containing soil and mixed with isolates of PGPR\r\nto investigate the effect of PGPR on the growth of chickpea plant. Isolates of PGPR induced production of plant\r\nhormones (indole acetic acid), phosphate solubilization and ammonia production to enhanced plant growth. Most\r\nof isolates resulted in a significant increase in shoot length, root length and dry matter production of shoot and\r\nroot of chickpea seedlings. Therefore, present study suggests that PGPR isolates viz. BHUPSB02, BHUPSB04 and\r\nBHUPSB13 may be used as biofertilizers to enhance the growth and productivity of chickpea.\r\nKey words: Chickpea, PGPR, IAA, Phosphate solubilization\r\nISSN : 0975-1130\r\nBiological Forum — An International Journal, 2(2): 15-18(2010)\r\ncolonize in the rhizospheric soil (Cattelan et al., 1999). The\r\ngood results obtained in vitro cannot always be dependably\r\nreproduced under field conditions (Chanway and Holl, 1993;\r\nZhender et al., 1999). The variability in the performance of\r\nPGPR may be due to various environmental factors that may\r\naffect their growth and exert their effects on plant. The\r\nenvironmental factors include climate, weather conditions,\r\nsoil characteristics or the composition or activity of the\r\nindigenous microbial flora of the soil. To achieve the\r\nmaximum growth promoting interaction between PGPR and\r\nnursery seedlings it is important to discover how the\r\nrhizobacteria exerting their effects on plant and whether the\r\neffects are altered by various environmental factors, including\r\nthe presence of other microorganisms (Bent et al., 2001).\r\nTherefore, it is necessary to develop efficient strains for\r\nchickpea production. One possible approach is to explore\r\nsoil microbial diversity for PGPR having combination of PGP\r\nactivities and well adapted to particular soil environment.\r\nSo keeping in view the above constrains, the present study\r\nwas designed to screen certain rhizospheric bacterial isolates\r\nbelonging to the genera Pseudomonas and Bacillus, for their\r\nmultiple plant growth promoting activities.\r\nChickpea (Cicer arietinum) is the most important staple\r\nfood in several developing countries and chemical fertilizers\r\nare the most important input required for chickpea cultivation.\r\nIn order to make its cultivation sustainable and less\r\ndependent on chemical fertilizers, it is important to know\r\nnow to use PGPR that can biologically fix nitrogen, solubilize\r\nphosphorus and induce some substances like indole acetic\r\nacid (IAA) that could contribute to the improvement of\r\n16 Yadav, Verma and Tiwari\r\nchickpea growth. Thus the aim of this study was to\r\ndetermine the effect of plant growth promoting rhizobacteria\r\nfor improvement of germination and plant Growth of chickpea\r\n(Cicer arietinum L.).\r\nMATERIAL AND METHODS\r\nBacterial culture and Identification. The rhizospheric\r\nsoil samples were collected from chickpea growing field of\r\nEastern Uttar Pradesh, India. The bacterial strains were\r\nisolated on their respective media; Pseudomonas on King’s\r\nB medium and Bacillus on nutrient agar. Bacillus and\r\nPseudomonas were biochemically characterized as per\r\nstandard methods of Cappuccino and Sherman (1992) and\r\nAneja (2003). Bacterial cultures were also molecularly\r\ncharacterized by 16S rDNA partial gene sequencing. Bacterial\r\ncultures were maintained on the respective slants media and\r\nstore at 4°C further use. All media and chemical ingredient\r\nwere purchased from Hi-media Pvt. Ltd. Mumbai.\r\nCharacterization of rhizobacteria for plant growth\r\npromoting activities\r\nProduction of Indole acetic acid. Indole acetic acid (IAA)\r\nproduction was detected as described by Brick et al., (1991).\r\nPseudomonas and Bacillus cultures were grown separately\r\non their respective media with 100 and 200 μg/ml of\r\nL-tryptophan at 30°C for 48 h. Fully grown cultures were\r\ncentrifuged at 8000 rpm for 10 min. The supernatant (2 ml)\r\nwas mixed with two drops of orthophosphoric acid and 4 ml\r\nof the Salkowski reagent (50 ml, 35% of perchloric acid, 1 ml\r\n0.5 M FeCl3 solution). Development of pink colour indicates\r\nIAA production.\r\nPhosphate solubilization by bacteria. All isolates were\r\nfirst screened on Pikovskaya’s agar plates for phosphate\r\nsolubilization as described by Gaur (1990). Bacterial cultures\r\nwere inoculated on centre of agar plate through inoculation\r\nloop under aseptic condition. Inoculated plates were\r\nincubated for 3 days at 30°C. Halo zone was obtained on\r\nPikovskaya’s agar plates. This halo zone showed positive\r\nphosphate solubilization ability.\r\nProduction of ammonia. Bacterial isolates were tested\r\nfor the production of ammonia in peptone water. Freshly\r\ngrown cultures were inoculated in 10 ml peptone water in\r\neach tube and incubated for 48–72 h at 36 ± 2°C. Nessler’s\r\nreagent (0.5 ml) was added in each tube. Development of\r\nbrown to yellow colour was a positive test for ammonia\r\nproduction (Cappuccino and Sherman, 1992).\r\nChickpea seed germination and plant growth. Seeds of\r\nchickpea (Cicer arietinum L.) cultivar C-235 were obtained\r\nfrom Indian Institute of Pulse Research (IIPR), Kalyanpur,\r\nKanpur, Uttar Pradesh, India. Healthy seeds were surface\r\nsterilized with 0.1% HgCl2 for 2 min and rinsed six times\r\nwith sterile distilled water. Bacillus and Pseudomonas were\r\ngrown in respective broth on shaking incubator (180 rpm)\r\nat 28 ± 2°C for 24 h. The surface sterilized seeds of chickpea\r\nwere inoculated in broth culture of B. subtilis, P. polymyxa,\r\nB. boronophillus, P. aeruginosa and P. putida for 30 min.\r\nFive Seeds were sown at 5 cm depth in 250 g sterilized soil\r\ncontaining plastic pot. A control treatment was also\r\nmaintained without inoculated seed. Pots were kept in to\r\nplant growth chamber for 21 days. The experiment was setup\r\nin 3 replication with 6 treatments. All seeds were germinated.\r\nAfter 21days, chickpea plants were harvested. Shoot and\r\nroot length were recorded in centimeter of each plant. Then\r\nplants were dried in an oven at 65°C for 3 days. After this\r\nshoot and root dry weight were recorded in gram.\r\nStatistical analysis. The data were analyzed statistically\r\nby using SPSS software version 12.0. Comparisons of means\r\nwere performed by the Fisher’s Protected LSD test at\r\nP  0.05.\r\nRESULT\r\nIsolation and Characterization of PGPR. Five bacterial\r\nisolates were successfully isolated from the rhizosphere of\r\nchickpea. They were molecularly characterized by 16S rDNA\r\npartial gene sequencing and their accession number were\r\nallotted as GU124826 (Pseudomonas aeruginosa strain\r\nBHUPSB02), GU124834 (Pseudomonas putida BHUPSB04),\r\nGU124818 (Bacillus subtilis strain BHUPSB13), GU124838\r\n(Paenibacillus polymyxa strain BHUPSB17) and GU124815\r\n(Bacillus boronophilus strain BHUPSB19) by National\r\nCentre for Biotechnology Information (NCBI) GenBank.\r\nPlant growth promoting activities. Screening results of\r\nPGPR traits are depicted in Table 1. Bacterial isolates of\r\nPGPR were tested for the quantitative estimation of IAA in\r\npresence of different concentrations of tryptophan.\r\nProduction of IAA as tryptophan is a key precursor in IAA\r\nbiosynthesis. IAA production was increased on increasing\r\nthe concentration of tryptophan from 100 to 200 μg ml–1.\r\nBacterial strain P. putida BHUPSB04 showed maximum\r\nsignificant concentration of IAA 25.65 μg ml–1 followed by\r\nP. aeruginosa BHUPSB02 (21.35 μg ml–1), B. subtilis\r\nBHUPSB13 (16.23 μg ml-1), P. polymyxa BHUPSB17 (15.79\r\nμg ml–1) and B. boronophillus BHUPSB19 (11. μg ml–1) at\r\n100 μg ml–1 trptophan in broth after 48 hours incubation.\r\nSimilar trend of IAA production was also recorded in\r\nbacterial strain at 200 μg ml–1 trptophan in broth after 48\r\nhours incubation.','Janardan Yadav, Jay Prakash Verma and Kavindra Nath Tiwari (2010). Effect of plant growth promoting Rhizobacteria on seed germination\r\nand plant growth Chickpea (Cicer arietinum L.) under in Vitro\r\nconditions. Biological Forum — An International Journal, 2(2): 15-18. '),(4709,'128','Species of conservation significance within and vicinity of Narayan\r\nSarovar Sanctuary: Biodiversity and distribution','Manoj Kumar Pardeshi, Nikunj Gajera, Rohit Patel, Darsh Worah and V. Vijay Kumar','5 MK PARDESHI.pdf','',1,'Biomap” of any protected area is essential for conservation and management of important species.\r\nHowever it is also widely accepted that the landscape matrix surrounding protected areas also plays an important\r\nrole in protecting many species. Totally 54 transects were sampled in and vicinity of Narayan Sarovar Sanctuary\r\n(NSS) protected area to understand the distribution and status of “Species of Conservation Significance (SCS)”.\r\nAmong 40 SCS from NSS, 14 were plants, five reptiles, 14 birds and seven species were mammals. Distributions\r\nof some species were recorded from both, sanctuary and adjacent areas while some species were restricted up to\r\nonly sanctuary or only adjacent areas. A distributional status of various SCS in and around NSS is given and\r\nexisting threats associated with these species are also mentioned. The present study revealed presence of SCS\r\noutside the existing sanctuary and suggests expansion of sanctuary boundaries for conservation of SCS of NSS.','Conservation, biodiversity, distribution, flora, fauna, Narayan Sarovar Sanctuary','Biomap” of any protected area is essential for conservation and management of important species.\r\nHowever it is also widely accepted that the landscape matrix surrounding protected areas also plays an important\r\nrole in protecting many species. Totally 54 transects were sampled in and vicinity of Narayan Sarovar Sanctuary\r\n(NSS) protected area to understand the distribution and status of “Species of Conservation Significance (SCS)”.\r\nAmong 40 SCS from NSS, 14 were plants, five reptiles, 14 birds and seven species were mammals. Distributions\r\nof some species were recorded from both, sanctuary and adjacent areas while some species were restricted up to\r\nonly sanctuary or only adjacent areas. A distributional status of various SCS in and around NSS is given and\r\nexisting threats associated with these species are also mentioned. The present study revealed presence of SCS\r\noutside the existing sanctuary and suggests expansion of sanctuary boundaries for conservation of SCS of NSS.','The potential objective in designating a natural\r\nprotected area is to maintain the biological diversity in an\r\necosystem (Al-Saqer, 2003) and to conserve elements of\r\nbiodiversity that are unable to survive elsewhere (Brandon,\r\n1997; Bruner et al., 2001). Additionally, acquisition of\r\nbaseline data on the distribution and status of\r\necobiologically important species is essential for their\r\nSpecies of conservation significance within and vicinity of Narayan\r\nSarovar Sanctuary: Biodiversity and distribution\r\nManoj Kumar Pardeshi, Nikunj Gajera, Rohit Patel, Darsh Worah and V. Vijay Kumar\r\nGujarat Institute of Desert Ecology,\r\nMundra Road, Bhuj (Kachchh) (G.J) India\r\nABSTRACT : “Biomap” of any protected area is essential for conservation and management of important species.\r\nHowever it is also widely accepted that the landscape matrix surrounding protected areas also plays an important\r\nrole in protecting many species. Totally 54 transects were sampled in and vicinity of Narayan Sarovar Sanctuary\r\n(NSS) protected area to understand the distribution and status of “Species of Conservation Significance (SCS)”.\r\nAmong 40 SCS from NSS, 14 were plants, five reptiles, 14 birds and seven species were mammals. Distributions\r\nof some species were recorded from both, sanctuary and adjacent areas while some species were restricted up to\r\nonly sanctuary or only adjacent areas. A distributional status of various SCS in and around NSS is given and\r\nexisting threats associated with these species are also mentioned. The present study revealed presence of SCS\r\noutside the existing sanctuary and suggests expansion of sanctuary boundaries for conservation of SCS of NSS.\r\nKeywords : Conservation, biodiversity, distribution, flora, fauna, Narayan Sarovar Sanctuary\r\nISSN : 0975-1130\r\nBiological Forum — An International Journal, 2(2): 19-24(2010)\r\nconservation. In this context, species inventories or\r\n“Biomap” of any protected area is essential for conservation,\r\nresource management (Oliver and Beattie, 1993) and\r\nimprovement of the existing species status. However, it is\r\nwidely accepted that the landscape matrix surrounding\r\nprotected areas also plays an important role in protecting\r\nmany species (Halpin, 1997; Hannah et al., 2002). Reserves\r\nFig. 1. Locations of transects laid within and vicinity of a Narayan Sarovar sanctuary (NSS)\r\n20 Pardesi, Gajera, Patel, Worah and Kumar\r\nalone will not be able to maintain landscape level biodiversity\r\nor resulting ecosystem services if they are isolated from the\r\nsurrounding matrix (Gaston et al., 2002; DeFries et al., 2005).\r\nSuccessful conservation management requires an\r\nunderstanding of species distributions (Roy, 2003); including\r\nwhich species are restricted to protected areas and which\r\nare adequately protected outside these areas. In addition,\r\nowing to habitat fragmentation and consequent losses\r\nsuffered by different populations, there is need for ensuring\r\nthe safety of the threatened biodiversity lying outside the\r\nprotected areas.\r\nA study area, Narayan Sarovar Sanctuary (NSS) is\r\nlocated in the westernmost part of the Country (India), lies\r\nbetween 23°27’ – 23°42’ N latitude and 68°30’ – 68°57’ E\r\nlongitude. NSS represents the ecological peculiarities of\r\nBiotic Province - 3A Kachchh, of Biogeographic Zone - the\r\nIndian Desert (Champion and Seth, 1968). Administratively,\r\na NSS is located within the Lakhpat taluka of Kachchh\r\ndistrict in state of Gujarat, India (Fig. 1). Large portion of\r\nthe area of the sanctuary exhibits the edaphic climax of\r\ntropical thorn forest with tree height averaging 3 to 5 m.\r\nMajor part of the sanctuary is under grassland and scrub\r\nforest, however, categorized in nine major habitat types i.e.\r\n5/D-Dry deciduous Scrub, 6/E4 -Salvadora scrub, 6B/C-Desert\r\nThorn Forest, 5/E3 -Babul (Acacia nilotica) forest, 6B/DS2-\r\nTropical Euphorbia scrub, 5/DS5-Dry Savannah type\r\nvegetation, Acacia nilotica- Salvadora association, 6/E2-\r\nGorad (Acacia Senegal), 6B/ DS1-Zizyphus scrub and\r\nCapparis association (Singh, 2001).\r\nIn Kachchh desert, a protected area - NSS provides\r\nnatural habitat for numerous threatened species of plants,\r\nreptiles, birds and mammals (GUIDE & GEER, 2001; Sing,\r\n2001). Furthermore, it having appropriate micro-climates and\r\nhabitats, these varied types of habitats are available for\r\nbreeding, feeding and other biological functions for various\r\nloral and faunal species. But presently all the natural\r\nhabitats are under pressure of industrial and associated\r\ndevelopments taking place at surroundings of NSS.\r\nThe present article fulfilled the research gaps in form of\r\nthe preliminary and comprehensive information on current\r\ndiversity and distribution of SCS floral and faunal (birds,\r\nreptiles and mammals) groups found in and vicinity of the\r\nNSS and also mentions existing threats to these important\r\nbiodiversity of the sanctuary which may serve as a base\r\nline database for the conservation of NSS in future. This\r\nwork was largely performed during the year of 2008.\r\nMATERIAL AND METHODS\r\nPresent study was conducted on different periods of\r\nthe year 2008. A total 54 sampling sites were randomly\r\nselected with in and vicinity of the NSS. The selection was\r\nbroadly based on the habitat heterogeneity of the area.\r\nSampling was carried out in selected sites to record floral\r\nand faunal diversity. Both, plants and animals were recorded\r\nin the belt transect of 1 km length crossing more than one\r\nhabitat. For plants, width of the belt transect was 10-15 m.\r\nand threatened plant species present in the transect width\r\nwere identified and documented (Mueller-Dombois and\r\nEllenberg, 1967). Reptiles were recorded by Intensive search\r\n(IS) method conducted within a 6m width of the entire belt\r\ntransect (Welsh, 1987; Welsh and Lind, 1991). All the micro\r\nhabitats (rock and boulders, dead and fallen logs, flushing\r\nand beating of dense bushes and grass patches, checking\r\nof rock and tree crevices and leaf litters etc.) within the belt\r\ntransects were thoroughly checked for presence of\r\nherpetofauna. Birds were recorded in the transect of variable\r\nwidth (Manuwal and Carey, 1991) according to the visibility\r\nand openness of the habitat. In addition, major water bodies\r\nin the study area were also surveyed for the aquatic bird\r\nspecies. Mammals were recorded by line transect method\r\n(Burnham et al., 1980) and also with the help of indirect\r\nevidences such as tracks/pugmark (Thommpson et al., 1989;\r\nAllen et al., 1996; Mohon et al., 1998; Edwards et al., 2000)\r\nand scat counts (Henke and Knowlton, 1995). Road kills for\r\nreptiles and mammals found on major roads passes through\r\nthe sanctuary were also recorded. In addition, general visual\r\nobservations and interviews of local peoples (residing inside\r\nthe sanctuary) were also made to record possible threats to\r\nimportant wildlife species in NSS.\r\nPlant and animal species mentioned as “SCS” are\r\nevaluated by using a criteria of WCMC (1994) for plants,\r\nIUCN for reptiles (Molur and Walker, 1998) and mammals\r\n(Molur et al., 1998), and Bird Life International (2001) for\r\nbirds.\r\nRESULTS AND DISCUSSION\r\nTotally 54 transects were laid in and around the NSS to\r\nrecord important floral and faunal species. Out of total\r\ntransect sampled, 35 were laid inside the NSS boundary and\r\n19 were laid in vicinity (adjacent area) of NSS. During present\r\nstudy, overall 40 SCS plants and animal were recorded from\r\nvarious transect locations. Among total SCS recorded from\r\nNSS, 14 were plants, 5 reptiles, 14 birds and 7 were mammals.\r\nPresent study confirms the presence of 14 SCS plants\r\nmentioned in the various categories of WCMC, 1994 which\r\nincludes one species of tree, two shrubs, seven herbs and\r\nthree of climbers (Table 1). Out of total 14 plant species, 12\r\nwere recorded from NSS as well as adjacent habitats of the\r\nsanctuary while remaining two i.e. Indigofera caerulea and\r\nCorallocarpus conocarpus were recorded only from\r\nsanctuary. Among all SCS plants, C. conocarpus,\r\nDactyliandra welwitschii and Limonium stocksii are highly\r\nthreatened (Joshua, et al., 2006), among these D. welwitschii\r\nwas recorded from 9 transects from NSS as well as from\r\nseven transects located in its vicinity; and L. stocksii was\r\nrecorded from five transects of NSS and one transect located\r\nin adjacent habitat. Maximum six numbers of SCS plants\r\nwere recorded from transect number 19 located inside the\r\nsanctuary, however at least one SCS plant was recorded\r\nfrom each transect laid inside as well as outside of NSS\r\nwhich proves conservation significance of sanctuary and\r\nPardesi, Gajera, Patel, Worah and Kumar 21\r\nits surrounding habitats for conservation of these plants.\r\nGUIDE & GEER (2001) and Singh (2001) have mentioned\r\nthat, a sanctuary supports 11 threatened plant species as\r\nTable 1 : Occurrence of SCS plant species in various transects laid within and vicinity of NCC.\r\nS.No. Group Species WCMC 1994 Transect numbers of species occurrence\r\n1. tree Commiphora wightii I and 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 9*, 10*, 12, 15, 16, 18*, 19, 20, 21, 22*, 23*,\r\n24*, 26*, 27*, 28, 30*, 31, 33, 36, 37, 38, 39, 40, 41, 43*, 44, 46,\r\n48, 50, 53, 54*\r\n2. shrub Campylanthus ramosissimus R 10*, 24*,31, 44, 48\r\n3. Ephedra foliata VU 8*, 10*, 11, 19, 24*, 25, 29, 31, 32, 34, 42, 44, 45*, 47*, 48, 49*,\r\n51\r\n4. herbs Helicrysum cutchicum R 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 7, 9*, 12, 15, 16, 20, 22*, 23*, 26, 28, 30*, 33, 36,\r\n37, 38, 39, 41, 43*, 48, 50, 53, 54*\r\n5. Heliotropium bacciferum I 8*, 11, 13, 14, 17*, 19*, 25, 29, 32, 34, 35, 36, 45*, 47*\r\n6. Heliotropium rariflorum I 8*, 11, 13, 14, 17*, 19*, 25, 29, 47*, 32, 34, 35, 42, 45*, 49*, 51,\r\n52*\r\n7. Indigofera caerulea R 19\r\n8. Limonium stocksii I 11, 19, 21, 40, 43*, 53\r\n9. Sida tiagii I 6,21, 23*, 26, 40\r\n10. Tribulus rajasthanensis I 5, 7, 10*, 20, 22*, 24*, 28, 31, 39, 41, 44, 48\r\n11. Convolvulus stocksii I 6, 7, 21, 27, 40\r\n12. climber Citrullus colocynthis R 8*, 11, 13, 14, 17*, 19*, 21, 25, 27*, 29, 32, 34, 35, 40, 45*, 47*,\r\n49*, 51, 52*\r\n13. Corallocarpus conocarpus CR 32\r\n14. Dactyliandra welwitschii VU 3, 5, 9*, 10*, 20, 23*, 24*, 26*, 30*, 31, 39, 43*, 44, 46, 48, 50\r\n* Transects located in vicinity (outside) NSS, R- Rare, VU- Vulnerable, CR- Critically Endangered, DD- Data Deficient, I- Indetermininent\r\nmentioned in Red Data Book of Indian Plants viz.\r\nCampylanthus ramosissimus, Citrullus colocynthis,\r\nCommiphora wightii, Dipcadi erythraeum, Helicrysum\r\ncutchicum, Heliotropium bacciferum, H. rariflorum, Ipomoea\r\nkotshyana, I. caerulea, Tribulus rajasthanensis, Ephedra\r\nfoliata.\r\nAmong vertebrates, only five species of reptiles\r\nmentioned in various categories of IUCN (Molur and Walker,\r\n1998) (Table 2) were recorded from 16 transects, of these 16\r\ntransects, six transects were located out side NSS. Maximum\r\ntwo species of reptiles were recorded from transect number\r\n53 located in the sanctuary. Out of five species of reptiles,\r\nthree were found only from sanctuary while V. bengalensis\r\nwas reported only from transect located outside the\r\nsanctuary however road kills of this species was also\r\nreported from the sanctuary. S. hardwickii was abundantly\r\ndistributed inside as well as adjacent habitats of the\r\nsanctuary. An endemic gecko, Cytrodactylus kachhensis of\r\nthis region was reported from two transects numbers i.e. 37\r\n& 53 located inside the NSS (Table 2). Being an endemic,\r\nno detailed information is available on its distribution in the\r\nstudy area (Joshua et al., 2006) so these two records\r\ncontribute very important information on the distribution of\r\nC. kachhensis.\r\nSeven species of mammals enlisted in various categories\r\nof IUCN (Molur and Walker, 1998; Molur et al., 1998) (Table\r\n2) were recorded from 28 different transects (Table 2). Among\r\nthese 28 transects, three were located outside NSS. Though\r\nthe mammals were recorded from only three transects located\r\noutside the sanctuary, these transects had richness of six\r\nspecies out of seven (except Viverricula indica). Indirect\r\nevidences (scats and tracks) of Hyaena hyaena and Vulpus\r\nbengalensis were recorded from maximum of transects\r\nlocations i.e. 27 and 26 transects respectively (Table 2). A\r\nreare species, Panthera pardus was sighted from single\r\ntransect number 24, located in vicinity of the NSS. GUIDE\r\nand GEER (2001) recorded many species of mammals i.e. H.\r\nhyaena, Caracal caracal, Felis silvestris, Canis lupus,\r\nGazella bennettii, Mellivora capensis and P. pardus from\r\nNSS. Maximum three species of mammals were recorded from\r\n26 different transects located inside as well as adjacent to\r\nNSS.\r\nOverall 14 species of birds enlisted in the various\r\ncategories of the International Bird Life (2001) (Table 2) were\r\nrecorded from 27 transects, of which nine transects were\r\nlocated outside the NSS. Though, maximum seven species\r\nwere recorded from transect number one located in the\r\nsanctuary, two species, Butastur teesa and Saxicola\r\nmacrorhyncha were reported only from transects located\r\noutside the NSS i.e. transect number 8 and 43 respectively.\r\n22 Pardesi, Gajera, Patel, Worah and Kumar\r\nFurthermore, of the total 14 species, 12 were recorded in the\r\nsanctuary as well its adjacent habitats. This instance proves\r\nthe potentiality of adjacent habitats of the sanctuary for\r\nvulnerable avifauna. Similarly, some species i.e. Falco\r\nnaumanni, Pseudibis papillosa, Haliaeetus leucogaster,\r\nPhoenicopterus minor and Parus nuchalis were recorded\r\nonly from sanctuary, which again shows importance of\r\nprotected area for conservation of the important bird species.\r\nSingh (2001) has mentioned that, sanctuary provides habitats\r\nfor threatened birds like, Ardeotis nigriceps (Great Indian\r\nBustard), Chlamydotis undulate (Houbara Bustard),\r\nSypheopides indica (Lesser Florican), Parus nuchalis,\r\nPelecenus crispus (Dalmaian pelican), Aythya nyroca\r\n(Ferruginous poachard) and Aquila heliaca (Imperial eagle).','Manoj Kumar Pardeshi, Nikunj Gajera, Rohit Patel, Darsh Worah and V. Vijay Kumar (2010). Species of conservation significance within and vicinity of Narayan Sarovar Sanctuary: Biodiversity and distribution. Biological Forum — An International Journal, 2(2): 19-24. '),(4710,'128','Diversity and distribution of aromatic plants in forests of Gorakhpur\r\ndivision, U.P., India','Abhay K. Pandey and N.N. Tripathi','6 NN TRIPATHI.pdf','',1,'A field survey of wild aromatic plants distributed in forests of Gorakhpur division indicates 44\r\nspecies of aromatic plants that belong to 32 genera and 14 families. Of which many are being used in day to\r\nday medical therapy. In addition to this the richest period for flowering and fruiting in aromatic plants was\r\nDec.-April. Out of 14 families studied Asteraceae occupied top most position; however Araceae, Cannabinaceae,\r\nCapparidaceae, Chenopodiaceae and Polygonaceae represented only one species of each. This study indicates\r\nthat the area harbors a high diversity of aromatic plants and their application as medicines may be exploited','Aromatic plants, forests, medicinal value.','A field survey of wild aromatic plants distributed in forests of Gorakhpur division indicates 44\r\nspecies of aromatic plants that belong to 32 genera and 14 families. Of which many are being used in day to\r\nday medical therapy. In addition to this the richest period for flowering and fruiting in aromatic plants was\r\nDec.-April. Out of 14 families studied Asteraceae occupied top most position; however Araceae, Cannabinaceae,\r\nCapparidaceae, Chenopodiaceae and Polygonaceae represented only one species of each. This study indicates\r\nthat the area harbors a high diversity of aromatic plants and their application as medicines may be exploited','The use of aromatic plants has been out of focus\r\nthroughout the history. At present, this is a popular\r\ntreatment strategy for a variety of ailments. According to\r\nWHO estimate, about 80% of the population in developing\r\ncountries depends directly on plants for its medication\r\n(Kosalge and Fursule, 2009). India has a rich assortment of\r\ndiversity of medicinal and aromatic plants distributed in\r\ndifferent geographical and ecological conditions in the\r\ncountry. Out of total 17,500 species of flowering plants in\r\nIndia only 1300 species are of aromatic nature (Uniyal et\r\nal., 2002). In present study an attempt has been made to\r\ncollect the aromatic plants from different forests of\r\nGorakhpur division with their collection number. Besides,\r\nobservation on habit, habitat, local name, flowering/fruiting\r\nand medicinal uses in human welfare have also been made.\r\nStudy area and Vegetations\r\nThe forests taken in present investigation are situated\r\nin Eastern part of Uttar Pradesh between latitude of 27º05’\r\nto 27º25’ North and longitude of 83º20’ to 84º10’ East. The\r\ndivision comprises Maharajganj, Gorakhpur, Kushinagar and\r\nDeoria districts. Out of which forests are only situated in\r\nMaharajganj and Gorakhpur districts. The soil of this area\r\nis gangatic alluvial brought down by rivers like Ghaghara,\r\nRapti, Rohin and Gandak from the Himalayas. The rainfall\r\nvaries considerably from year to year. The monsoon rains\r\ncommence during June and come to an end in September\r\nbut may persist till October. The minimum temperature goes\r\ndown to 6ºC in the month of January & maximum up to\r\n43ºC in the month of June.\r\nThe Gorakhpur Division is a tarai region has dense\r\nforest covers close to the foothills of Himalayas. All the\r\nforests of Gorakhpur Division including Achalgarh, Banki,\r\nCampierganj, Chowk, Kushmahawa, Kushmahi, Lehradevi,\r\nMadanpur (out of Gorakhpur Division), Madhualia, Nichlaul,\r\nPakari, Tehrighat and Tilkonia are rich in species composition\r\nof higher plants. The vegetation of forests consists of\r\nherbs, shrubs, trees and climbers. Trees, shrubs and climbers\r\noccur throughout the year and form permanent vegetation,\r\nwhile herbaceous plants mostly appearing during rainy\r\nseason, decreasing during winter and finally become\r\ndepleted in peak summer.\r\nMETHODOLOGY\r\nThe present work is based on an intensive survey of\r\naromatic plants of Gorakhpur Division during 2006-2009; in\r\nwhich periodic excursions were made and aromatic plants\r\nwere collected in flowering and fruiting conditions. The\r\ndominance of aromatic plants was recorded on visual basis\r\nfor presence and absence of species. The plant specimens\r\nwere assigned collection numbers; their localities and other\r\nnecessary field information were recorded in field data book.\r\nDuring visit local name, medicinal and traditional uses of\r\nplants by native people were noted on the spot and\r\nconfirmed with the help of literature. The specimens were\r\npressed dried, prepared herbarium and identified using floras\r\n(Srivastava, 1976; Singh et al., 2000) as well as by matching\r\ntheir specimens lodged in departmental herbarium of\r\nGorakhpur University and BSI (NRC) Dehradun. The\r\nherbarium of collected plants was deposited to BSI,\r\nDehradun.\r\nEnumeration of aromatic plant species\r\nAromatic plant species collected from forests of\r\nGorakhpur division are enumerated here alphabetically along\r\nwith common name and mode of application.\r\nAcorus calamus Linn. (Bach)\r\nA semi aquatic, rhizomatous perennial herb, rhizome\r\ncreeping, much branched, cylindrical, light brown, white and\r\nDiversity and distribution of aromatic plants in forests of Gorakhpur\r\ndivision, U.P., India\r\nAbhay K. Pandey and N.N. Tripathi\r\nBacteriology & Natural Pesticide Laboratory, Department of Botany, DDU Gorakhpur University,\r\nGorakhpur (U.P.)\r\nABSTRACT : A field survey of wild aromatic plants distributed in forests of Gorakhpur division indicates 44\r\nspecies of aromatic plants that belong to 32 genera and 14 families. Of which many are being used in day to\r\nday medical therapy. In addition to this the richest period for flowering and fruiting in aromatic plants was\r\nDec.-April. Out of 14 families studied Asteraceae occupied top most position; however Araceae, Cannabinaceae,\r\nCapparidaceae, Chenopodiaceae and Polygonaceae represented only one species of each. This study indicates\r\nthat the area harbors a high diversity of aromatic plants and their application as medicines may be exploited.\r\nKeywords: Aromatic plants, forests, medicinal value.\r\nISSN : 0975-1130\r\nBiological Forum — An International Journal, 2(2): 25-33(2010)\r\n26 Pandey and Tripathi\r\nspongy within. Leaves bright green, distichous, thickened\r\nin the middle, margin wavy. Flowers light brown, densely\r\npacked in sessile cylindrical spadix. Fruits oblong, turbinate\r\nberries.\r\nDried powder of rhizome is given to children twice\r\ndaily in fever (Tomar, 2008).\r\nAdenostemma lavenia (L.) O. Kuntze (Bhenguar)\r\nAn erect annual herb. Leaves simple, opposite, oblong,\r\novate, sessile or petiolate, crenate or coarsely serrate. Heads\r\nhomogamous, white, discoid, arranged in dense panicles or\r\ncorymbs. Calyx modified into pappus. Corolla 5, tubular.\r\nAnther 5, syngenesious. Fruits cypsela, brown with\r\nglandular tubercles.\r\nThe extract of plant is used as diuretic, crushed leaves\r\napplied to cuts and wounds, and also to treat bites of\r\npoisonous insects and caterpillars (Chopra et al., 2006).\r\nArtemisia nilagirica (Clarke) Pamp. (Dauna)\r\nAn aromatic, perennial shrub, often gregarious,\r\npubescent or villous throughout. Leaves ovate, bipinnate\r\nto tripinnate, deeply pinnatisect, pubescent above, white\r\ntomentose beneath. Heads homogamous, flowers yellowish\r\nwhite, sessile in sub-erect or horizontal panicled racemes.\r\nCalyx modified into pappus. Corrola 5, tubular. Anther 5,\r\nsyngenesious. Fruits achene.\r\nUsed in chronic fever, swelling and inflammations of\r\nliver also employed as tonic and stimulant (Ambasta, 2006).\r\nBlumea eriantha DC. (Kukuraunha)\r\nAn erect, puberulous, aromatic herb. Leaves simple,\r\npetiolate, alternate, obovate or elliptic, apiculate, margin\r\nirregularly toothed, membranous, pubescent on both\r\nsurfaces. Heads heterogamous, yellow clustered into axillary\r\nand terminal cymes. Calyx modified into pappus. Corolla 5.\r\nStamens 5, syngenesious. Fruits cypsela, dark brown.\r\nHalf cup of leaf infusions taken twice a day for diuretic\r\n(Chopra et al., 2006).\r\nB. laciniata (Roxb.) DC. (Kukuraunha)\r\nAn erect, aromatic, pubescent, annual herb. Leaves\r\nsimple, alternate, variable, usually large, runcinate-lyrate\r\nbelow and sub-pinnatifid, spinulose above, hairy on both\r\nsurfaces. Heads heterogamous, yellow in dense to lax\r\npanicles. Calyx modified into pappus. Corolla 5. Stamens 5,\r\nsyngenesious. Fruits cypsela, flattened.\r\nPlants used against mouth disease of cattle. The\r\nessential oils used as antifungal and antibacterial agent\r\n(Asolkar et al., 2005).\r\nB. mollis DC. (Kukuraunha)\r\nAn erect, annual, aromatic leafy herb. Leaves simple,\r\nalternate, petiolate, elliptic-lanceolate or obovate, irregularly\r\ntoothed or serrate, glandular on both surface. Heads\r\nheterogamous, purplish in terminal or axillary spiciform\r\ndense cymes or panicles. Calyx modified into pappus.\r\nCorolla 5, tubular. Stamens 5, syngenesious. Fruits cypsela,\r\nlinear.\r\nThe decoction of whole plant used to treat diarrhea\r\n(Asolkar et al., 2005).\r\nCaesulia axillaris Roxb. (Bangra)\r\nAn erect or sub-erect glabrous marshy annual herb.\r\nLeaves alternate, sessile, lanceolate, acuminate, tapering to\r\nthe auricled base. Heads globose, homogamous, flowers\r\npurplish or white, connate together in compound head.\r\nCalyx modified into pappus, axillary sessile. Corolla 5.\r\nAnther 5, syngenesious. Fruits cypsela, dark brown.\r\nA mixture of this plant and khesari in water is given to\r\ncattle in stomach disease; leaf is used in treatment of goiter,\r\nplant used in baldness and diarrhea (Asolkar et al., 2005).\r\nCallicarpa macrophylla (L.) Vahl (Priyangu)\r\nAn erect shrub. Leaves elliptic or ovate-lanceolate,\r\ncrenate to serrate, acuminate, upper surface wrinkled, lower\r\ncottony. Flowers pink in dense axillary, globose, cymes.\r\nCalyx 5, companulate. Corolla 5, tubular. Stamens 4. Fruits\r\ndrupe, white.\r\nRoots yield an essential oil used in stomach disorder,\r\nleaves warmed and applied to rheumatic joints ( Ambasta,\r\n2006).\r\nCannabis sativa Linn. (Bhang)\r\nA scarsely branched, aromatic herb. Leaves upper 1-3\r\nand lower 5-11 partite, lobes lanceolate, serrate. Flowers\r\nsmall, greenish white, dioecious. The male flowers in axillary\r\npanicled cymes while female flowers in axillary racemes.\r\nFruits compressed, crustaceous nut.\r\nA poultice of leaves is applied externally around the\r\nanus for one month to cure piles (Tomar, 2008).\r\nChenopodium ambrosioides Linn. (Banbhathuwa)\r\nAn erect, much branched, aromatic herb or under shrub.\r\nLeaves oblong–lanceolate or oblong ovate, obtuse or acute,\r\nsinulate-dentate. Flowers green, minute in axillary and\r\nterminal simple or paniculated leafy spikes. Perienth 5-lobed\r\nenclosing the fruits. Stamens 5. Fruits utricle membranous\r\nbrown.\r\nUsed as an anthelmintic against many forms of\r\nintestinal parasite (Mishra et al., 2008).\r\nClausena pentaphylla (Roxb.) DC. (Ratanjot)\r\nA small aromatic deciduous shrub. Leaves\r\nimparipinnate, tri-hepta foliolate; leaflets alternate or subopposite,\r\novate-elliptic, oblong, lanceolate, margins\r\ncrenulate, glabrous, gland punctate. Flowers yellowish or\r\ngreenish white in terminal, downy panicles. Calyx and\r\ncorolla 4-5 each. Stamens 10. Fruits berry ovoid, orange.\r\nPandey and Tripathi 27\r\nBark is applied to fresh wounds in powdered form for\r\nquick healing (Ali and Dixit, 1989).\r\nColebrookea oppositifolia Sm. (Bantulsi/Pansara)\r\nAn erect, aromatic, spreading, white tomentose shrub\r\nwith grooved, sub-quadrangular branches. Leaves elliptic,\r\noblong, crenate-serrate, acute hairy. Flowers white, small in\r\nclustered spikes. Calyx deeply 5-lobed, acrescent. Corolla\r\nsmall, 4 lobes. Stamens 4. Fruits nutlets black.\r\nLeaves used in cuts, wounds and burns. Roots used\r\nin hysteria and epilepsy (Ambasta, 2006).\r\nCurcuma aromatica Roxb. (Jangalihaldi)\r\nA rhizomatous herb with a thick tuberous aromatic root\r\nstocks. Leaves linear, lanceolate, an apparent stem is formed\r\nby rolled up leaf sheath. Inflorescence raceme, flowers red\r\nin colour. Calyx 3, united. Corolla 3, unequal, tubular.\r\nStamen 1. Fruits loculicidal cypsela.\r\nRhizomes powder used in fever, contusions and\r\nsprains (Ambasta, 2006).\r\nC. zedoaria Rosc. (Kachur)\r\nA rhizomatous underground herb. An apparent stem is\r\nformed by rolled up leaf sheath. Leaves alternate spirally\r\narranged, linear. Inflorescence spikes arise from the sheaths.\r\nFlowers yellow.\r\nCalyx 3, united. Corolla 3, unequal, tubular. Fruits\r\nloculicidal cypsela.\r\nUsed as stimulant tonic, stomachic and relieve from\r\njoints pains (Chopra et al., 2006).\r\nCyperus brevifolius (Rottb.) Hassk. (Mutha)\r\nAn erect, slender perennial sedge with horizontal\r\nrhizome. Leaves linear, erect, spikes aggregated into terminal\r\nsolitary globose green heads. Spikelets lanceolate or ovatelanceolate,\r\n1- flowered. Perienth absent represented by\r\nbristles or scales or hairs. Stamens 3. Fruits nuts, yellowish\r\nbrown.\r\nReadily eaten by cattle. Leaves used in diarrhea\r\n(Asolkar et al., 2005).\r\nC. monocephalus Endl. (Musta)\r\nAn erect, glabrous sedge with slender, elongated\r\ncreeping rhizomes. Leaves linear, acuminate. Spikes solitary,\r\nsub-globose, white, spikelets 1- flowered. Rachilla\r\ndeciduous. Stamens 3. Fruits nuts, oblong.\r\nDecoction of aromatic rhizomes used as diuretic,\r\ndemulcent and tonic, also given in fever and diabetes\r\n(Ambasta et al., 2006).\r\nC. squarrosus Linn. (Motha)\r\nA glabrous, annual sedge with numerous tufted,\r\nfibrous roots. Leaves arising near base of stem, usually\r\nshorter than stems, linear, tapering in acute apex.\r\nInflorescence umbellate with at least one sessile head like\r\nspikes of spikelets. Heads globose or oblong, spikelets\r\noblong, brownish, 10-12 flowered. Stamen 1. Fruits narrowly\r\nobovoid.\r\nDecoction of whole plants useful in diarrhoea, plants\r\ndiuretic, astringent (Chopra et al., 2006).\r\nC. triceps (Rottb.) Endl. (Apavisha)\r\nAn erect, small, glabrous, annual sedge with small\r\nrhizome. Leaves narrow, acuminate, spikes 3-5, ovoid or\r\noblong, white aggregated into a compact head. Rachilla\r\ndeciduous, perienth absent represented by bristles, scales\r\nor hairs. Spikelets, 1-flowered. Fruits nut oblong, ellipsoid\r\nand pale brown.\r\nDecoction of plants is given in fever, the root oil used\r\nfor stimulating liver and to relieve pruritus (Choudhury et\r\nal., 2010).\r\nErigeron bonariensis Linn. (Bonaria)\r\nAn erect, hairy, deep rooted annual herb. Leaves\r\nsimple, alternate, upper sessile, obovate-oblong, coarsely\r\ntoothed. Heads purplish, in corymbose panicles,\r\nheterogamous. Calyx modified into pappus. Corolla 5,\r\ntubular. Stamens 5, syngenesious. Fruits cypsela, oblong,\r\nhairy.\r\nPlants used as stimulating diuretic in febrile condition\r\n(Kala, 2005).\r\nE. canadensis Linn. (Jrayayupriya)\r\nAn erect, slender, much branched, pubescent hairy\r\nannual herb. Leaves simple, alternate, upper sessile, narrowly\r\nlinear or linear–lanceolate, entire, acute, base cuneate.\r\nHeads yellowish–white, heterogamous in elongated\r\nbranched panicles. Calyx modified into white hairy pappus.\r\nCorolla 5, tubular. Anther 5, syngenesious. Fruits cypsela,\r\ndirty white.\r\nDecoction of whole plant given for diarrhoea and\r\ndysentery (Chopra et al., 2006).\r\nEugenia heyneana (L.) Wall. ( Kathjamun)\r\nA small to medium sized tree. Leaves narrow, lanceolate,\r\nacuminate, glabrous. Flowers greenish white in panicles.\r\nCalyx and corolla 4-5 each. Stamens numerous. Fruits berry,\r\ncrowned by cup like calyx-limb, brown in colour.\r\nRoot chewed for relief from tooth ache, used as\r\nvermicide, flowers used in inflammation (Mishra et al., 2008).\r\nEupatorium cannabinum Linn. (Tangol-lati)\r\nAn erect, suffrutescent, perennial herb. Leaves simple,\r\nopposite, petiolate, lanceolate, acute or acuminate, coarsely\r\nserrate, attenuate at base. Heads purplish, homogamous in\r\nterminal or axillary corymbs. Calyx modified into hairy\r\npappus. Corolla 5, tubular. Anther 5, syngenesious. Fruits\r\ncypsela, cylindrical, black.\r\nDiuretic, herb employed as purgative (Ambasta, 2006).\r\n28 Pandey and Tripathi\r\nE. odoratum Linn. (Ayapana)\r\nAn erect perennial shrub, stem pubescent. Leaves\r\nsimple, petiolate, opposite, decussate, ovate, dentate, acute\r\nor acuminate, pubescent on both surfaces. Heads purplish,\r\nhomogamous, in branched corymbose cymes. Calyx\r\nmodified into hairy pappus. Corolla 5, tubular. Anther 5,\r\nsyngenesious. Fruits cypsela, fusiform black.\r\nDecoction of leaves haemostatic, aqueous extract of\r\nshoots cardiac stimulants (Awasthi, 1991).\r\nGlycosmis pentaphylla Corr. (Karjeer)\r\nAn evergreen shrub. Leaves tri-pentafoliolate; leaflets\r\novate-lanceolate, acute or acuminate, entire, dark green,\r\nglabrous. Flowers small, white in terminal or axillary\r\npubescent panicles. Calyx & corolla 4-5 each. Stamens 10.\r\nFruits berry, pink or blue.\r\nBrush of stem is used for clean the teeth in pyorrhea.\r\nJuice is applied for fever and liver complaints, leaves\r\nconsidered good antidote for skin trouble & stomach ache\r\n(Natrajan et al., 1999).\r\nGrangea maderaspatana (L.) Poir (Jhinki mundi)\r\nA prostrate or sub-erect, villous, annual aromatic herb,\r\nforming circular patches at the ground. Leaves alternate,\r\nsessile, pinnatifid or lobulate, coarsely toothed, pubescent\r\non both surfaces. Heads yellow, heterogamous, globose,\r\nsolitary or rarely in pairs on leaf opposed peduncles. Calyx\r\nmodified into pappus. Corolla 5, tubular. Anther 5,\r\nsyngenesious. Fruits cypsela, pale brown.\r\nHalf cup of leaf infusion taken 2 times a day in\r\nobstructed menstruation, infusion of leaves also considered\r\nas stomachic, deobstruent and antispasmodic (Choudhury\r\net al., 2010).\r\nGynandropsis gynandra (L.) Briq. (Hulhul)\r\nAn erect, spreading glandular-pubescent annual herb.\r\nLeaves digitately pentafoliolate, obovate, acute, entire or\r\nserrulate. Flowers white, sub-corymbose, solitary in the axis\r\nof leafy bracts, raceme. Calyx 4. Corolla 5. Stamens 4-many.\r\nGynandrophore present. Fruits capsule, oblong, dark brown.\r\nBruised leaves used in headache, rheumatism and other\r\nlocal pains. Seeds rubefacient and anthelmintic (Chopra et\r\nal., 2006).\r\nGynura nepalensis Benth. (Jali)\r\nAn erect, annual herb. Leaves simple, longe, alternate,\r\nramale and cauline, lanceolate or ovate, obovate-lanceolate,\r\nunequally, tripinnatifid, dentate or entire, acute. Heads\r\npinkish disciform, homogamous in terminal panicled\r\ncorymbs. Calyx modified into pappus. Corolla 5, tubular.\r\nAnther 5, syngenesious. Fruits cypsela, brown.\r\nLeaves used in digestion, lotion of leaf employed as\r\nmild stomachic (Kala, 2005).\r\nHygrophila difformis Linn. (Sarpat)\r\nAn erect or decumbent, pubescent aromatic, annual\r\nherb with quadrangular stems swollen at the nodes and\r\nrooting below. Leaves petiolate, ovate, crenate-serrate on\r\nboth sides. Flowers bluish white or purplish, in axillary\r\nwhorls. Calyx tubular, 5-fid. Corolla 2-lipped. Stamens 4,\r\ndidynamous. Fruits capsule, narrow, sessile.\r\nLeaves edible, used for poulticing wounds and in tooth\r\nache, antioxidant activity (Debasish et al., 2010).\r\nH. pinnatifida Dalz. (Godadi)\r\nAn aromatic herb with tetragonous stems glandular,\r\npubescent, swollen at the nodes. Leaves opposite, oblonglanceolate,\r\nsub-obtuse or acute, deeply pinnatifid. Flowers\r\npurplish, solitary or in lax spikes. Calyx 5. Corolla bilipped.\r\nStamens didynamous. Fruits capsule, sessile.\r\nDecoction of whole plant taken in diarrhea (Chopra et\r\nal., 2006).\r\nLantana camara Linn. (Ghaneri)\r\nA straggling or scandent, aromatic shrub with recurved\r\nprickles. Leaves ovate or ovate-oblong with cordate or subcordate\r\nbase, scabrid on both side, crenate-serrate. Flowers\r\norange yellow or pink in axillary, spicate heads. Calyx small,\r\nmembranous 4-5 toothed. Corolla – tube cylindrical, 4-5.\r\nStamens 4, didynamous. Fruits drupe, black.\r\nUsed for itch, an antiseptic for wounds, decoction given\r\nin tetanus and malaria (Mishra et al., 2008).\r\nL. indica Linn. (Ghaneri)\r\nA hairy scandent shrub, branches-straggling, armed\r\nwith scattered, prickles. Leaves ovate-oblong, crenateserrate,\r\nacute or sub-obtuse. Flowers white, purple or yellow\r\nin axillary head or spike. Calyx 4-5 toothed, small. Corolla\r\n4-5, tube cylindrical. Stamens 4. Fruits drupe purple when\r\nripe.\r\nLeaves used as a cure for snake-bite (Asolkar et al.,\r\n2005).\r\nLeonotis nepetaefolia R.Br. (Dhompo)\r\nAn erect annual herb with grooved, puberulous,\r\nquadrangular stems. Leaves ovate, coarsely crenate-serrate,\r\nacute. Flowers orange-scarlet in dense globose axillary\r\nwhorls. Calyx with 8-9 rigid teeth, teeth sharply spinescent.\r\nCorolla bilipped. Stamens 4. Fruits nutlets black, linear to\r\noblong.\r\nInflorescence put in 50gm ghee, boiled to viscous paste\r\nand orally administered two spoon full a day for cough.\r\nPlants boiled in mustered oil and applied over waist to\r\nrelieve pain, flowers and seeds used in cuts, wounds and\r\nburns (Chopra et al., 2006).\r\nLeonurus sibiricus Linn. (Guma)\r\nAn erect, glabrous or pubescent, annual herb. Stems\r\nbluntly quadrangular. Leaves palmately pinnatifid, linear,\r\nPandey and Tripathi 29\r\nlanceolate. Flowers bluish-red in axillary whorls. Calyx\r\nturbinate, 5- teeth. Corolla 5, bilabiate. Stamens 4,\r\ndidynamous. Fruits nutlets, black.\r\nDried leaves and flowering tops diuretic, prescribed in\r\nhysteria and heart palpitation ( Chopra et al., 2006).\r\nLeucas aspera Spreng (Gooma).\r\nAn erect or diffused branched annual herb with hispid,\r\nquadrangular stems. Leaves elliptic-oblong, linear,\r\nlanceolate, entire or crenate, acute. Flowers white in terminal\r\nand axillary whorls. Calyx 5, striate, 6-10 toothed. Corolla\r\nbilabiate (2/3). Stamens 4, didynamous. Fruits nutlets,\r\nbrown.\r\nJuice of leaves applied externally in chronic skin\r\neruptions and painful swelling, anti-inflammatory (Natarajan\r\net al., 1999).\r\nL. cephalotes (Wild) Link. (Gooma)\r\nAn erect, hairy, annual herb. Stem obtusely\r\nquadrangular. Leaves ovate, linear-lanceolate, crenateserrate,\r\nsub-acute, and pubescent. Flowers white in large\r\ndense terminal whorls. Calyx striate, 6-10 toothed. Corolla\r\n2/3. Stamens 4, didynamous. Fruits nutlets, brown.\r\nJuice of leaf mixed with honey is taken in cough, the\r\naqueous extract of leaves in constipation. Flowers and\r\nleaves chewed in tooth-ache and gum disorder (Ambasta,\r\n2006).\r\nLippia nodiflora Rich. (Bhuiokra)\r\nA straglling aromatic shrub. Leaves ovate, crenateserrate,\r\nbase obtuse, decurrent, rugose. Flowers pink, in\r\ndense cylindrical spikes. Calyx lobed or toothed. Corolla 5,\r\nunited. Stamens 4. Fruits small, dry. Seed pyrenes.\r\nConsidered as stomachic (Ambasta, 2006).\r\nNepeta hindostana (Roth) Haines. (Bilaiyalotan)\r\nAn erect or ascending herb with quadrangular, grooved,\r\npubescent branches. Leaves ovate or sub-orbiculate,\r\ncrenate, obtuse, base-cordate or truncate. Flowers bluish\r\npurple, in long peduncled axillary cymes. Calyx tubular, 5\r\ntoothed. Corolla bilipped. Stamens 4, didynamous. Fruits\r\nnutlets, light brown with white spot.\r\nThe whole plant used as a cardiac tonic, decoction\r\nused as gargle (Chopra et al., 2006).\r\nOcimum canum Sims. (Bantulsi)\r\nAn erect, much branched, pubescent, annual herb.\r\nLeaves elliptic-lanceolate, entire or serrate, acute at both\r\nend, glabrous. Flowers white or purple in close whorls of\r\nterminal racemes. Calyx 5, bilipped, companulate. Corolla\r\nalso bilabiate. Stamens 4. Fruits nutlets, ellipsoid, black.\r\nDecoction of leaves used in epilepsy and hysteria\r\n(Asolkar et al., 2005).\r\nPiper sylvaticum Roxb. (Pahari-pipal)\r\nA slender, creeping undershrub. Leaves alternate, ovate\r\nor cordate, caudate, shortly acuminate. Flowers spicate,\r\ngreenish, spikes dioecious. Stamens 2-4, arranged in axillary\r\nand terminal. Fruit berries crowded in cylindrical spikes,\r\nred when ripe.\r\nFruits carminative, used in food preparations (Chopra\r\net al., 2006).\r\nPogostemon heyneanus Benth. (Pachouli/Bhantwas)\r\nA large aromatic herb. Leaves lanceolate, serrate-acute\r\nor acuminate, base obtuse. Flowers white tinged with pink\r\nin pubescent cylindrical spikes. Calyx 5- toothed. Corolla\r\nbilipped 4-lobed, bracts foliaceous. Stamens 4. Fruits nutlets,\r\nreddish brown.\r\nDecoction of leaves given in cough and asthma (Mishra\r\net al., 2008).\r\nP. plectranthoides Desf. (Pachouli/Bhantwas)\r\nA large aromatic herb. Leaves ovate, serrate, acute or\r\nacuminate, base sub-obtuse, pubescent beneath. Flowers\r\nwhite tinged with pink, in pubescent cylindrical spikes.\r\nCalyx 5. Corolla 2-lipped. Stamens 4, didynamous. Fruits\r\nnutlets brown.\r\nDecoction of leaves used as stimulant and styptic\r\n(Ambasta, 2006).\r\nPolygonum glabrum Willd. (Bihagni)\r\nAn erect or decumbent herb. Leaves lanceolate or linear,\r\nshining, gland dotted, ochreate stipules, tubular closely\r\nsheathing the stem. Flowers pink or white, in terminal\r\npanicles. Bracts tubular, glabrous. Perienth 4-5, coloured.\r\nStamens 6-9. Fruits nutlets dark brown, shining.\r\nInfusion of leaves given in colic and as a febrifuge.\r\nRoot stocks used for piles, jaundice debility and\r\nconsumption (Chopra et al., 2006).\r\nSalvia plebeia R.Br. (Bhu-tulasi)\r\nAn erect pubescent annual herb with obtusely grooved\r\nquadrangular stems. Leaves ovate to lanceolate, crenate,\r\nobtuse base, acuminate, glabrous or hairy. Flowers white\r\nto bluish-white in spicate racemes. Calyx tubular or\r\ncompanulate, bilipped. Corolla 2-lipped. Stamens 2. Fruits\r\nsmall nutlets, ovoid, brown.\r\nSeeds used in diarrhoea, plant diuretic and anthelmintic\r\n(Ambasta, 2006).\r\nSiegesbeckia orientalis Linn. (Katampam)\r\nAn erect, branched annual herb. Leaves simple,\r\npetiolate, opposite, ovate with cuneate base, acute, at the\r\napex irregularly serrate-dentate, pubescent on both surfaces.\r\nHeads yellowish, heterogamous in lax panicles. Receptacle\r\nconvex with elliptic-ovate, glandular-hairy palaeaceous\r\n30 Pandey and Tripathi\r\nbracts. Corolla 5, tubular. Stamens 5, syngenesious. Fruits\r\ncypsela, dark brown. Pappus absent.\r\nSaid to be possesses healing properties in gangrenous\r\nulcers and sores. Also diaphoretic and cardiotonic (Chopra\r\net al., 2006).\r\nRESULTS AND DISCUSSION\r\nThe aromatic plants collected during investigation\r\nare listed in Table 1. It shows that species ordered\r\nalphabetically by family, place of collection with collection\r\nnumber, intensity of occurrence, flowering/fruiting and habit/\r\nhabitat. A total 44 aromatic plant species belonging to 32\r\ngenera and 14 families were collected from different forests\r\nof Gorakhpur Division. Asteraceae showed 13 aromatic\r\nplants followed by Lamiaceae (10) however Araceae,\r\nCannabinaceae, Capparidaceae, Chenopodiaceae and\r\nPolygonaceae were represented by only one species. Out\r\nof 44 species, 7 species belong to monocot family. During\r\nexcursions the species viz., Lantana camara, L. indica,\r\nOcimum canum, Pogostemon spp., and Cannabis sativa\r\nwere found to be abundantly distributed throughout the\r\nforests while the species like Adenostemma lavenia\r\n(Tehrighat, Kushinagar), Clausena pentaphylla (Pakari,\r\nNichlaul and Kushmahi), Hygrophilla pinnatifida,\r\nEupatorium cannabinum, (Kushmahi), Siegesbeckia\r\norientalis, Curcuma aromatica and Gynura nepalensis\r\n(Nichlaul) showed restricted distribution. Leonurus sibiricus\r\nwas recorded from Sahajanawa and Gorakhpur while Piper\r\nsylvaticum was reported only from Madanpur forest.\r\nRemaining species were distributed freely in surveyed areas.\r\nC. aromatica, G. nepalensis, P. heyneanus and P. sylvaticum,\r\nwere reported for the first time in these areas.','Abhay K. Pandey and N.N. Tripathi (2010).Diversity and distribution of aromatic plants in forests of Gorakhpur division, U.P., India. Biological Forum — An International Journal, 2(2): 25-33. '),(4711,'128','Taxonomic description of a new species of the genus Mestocharella\r\n(Hymenoptera: Eulophidae) from the Kumaon hills of the Uttarakhand\r\n(India)','Sandeep Kumar, M.A. Khan* and Thangjam B.','7 SANDIP KUMAR.pdf','',1,'A new species of the Genus Mestocharella (Hymenoptera: Eulophidae: Tetrastichinae),\r\nM. kausaniensis, parasitizing to a Lepidopteran leaf miner, is described and illustrated from India.','Hymenoptera, Chalcidoidea, Eulophidae, Tetrastichinae, Uttarakhand, India','A new species of the Genus Mestocharella (Hymenoptera: Eulophidae: Tetrastichinae),\r\nM. kausaniensis, parasitizing to a Lepidopteran leaf miner, is described and illustrated from India.','The genus Mestocharella was proposed by Girault with\r\nthe type species feralis from Queensland, Australia, belongs\r\nto the subfamily Tetrastichinae, is the only known genus\r\nwith a carinate or subcarinate collar on the pronotum. The\r\npronotal and propodeal characters suggest a similarity to\r\ncertain Eulophinae genera, but the male antennae and the\r\narrangement of sclerites on thoracic dorsum are clearly\r\nTetrastichinae, although the axillae are relatively weakly\r\nadvanced. Boucek (1988) proposed some key characters by\r\nwhich the genus can easily be identified, which are as\r\nfollows: very distinct sculpture on propodeum, an areolation\r\nwith more or less pronounced median carina forking\r\nanteriorly; antennae not inserted high above the centre of\r\nface ,scape and pedicel without any rough sculpture, only\r\npedicel with slightly raised reticulation, but the antennae\r\nwith three fairly conspicuous anelli, female antennae with\r\nfour funicle segments and two segmented club; malar groove\r\nalways present or replaced by groove or ridge; axillae\r\nrelatively little advanced, their interior corners obtuse angular,\r\npetiole distinct, coarsely sculptured. Kamijo (1994) revised\r\nthe genus Mestocharella and described 6 new species from\r\nEastern and South Eastern Asia. During this revision, the\r\nspecies of this genus were divided into three groups mainly\r\nbased on carinal arrangement on gestral petiole; propodeum\r\nand Pronotal collar as the kumatai-, the feralis- and javensisgroups.\r\nThe members of Mestocharella are parasitic on\r\nLepidoptera, Mainly leaf-mining species. The kumatai-group\r\nhas been reared from Tischeria (Tischeriidae) and the feralisgroup\r\nfrom Pilocrocis sp. (Pyralidae).The hosts of the\r\njavensis-group seems to be restricted to the Acroceropesand\r\nGracillaria-groups of Gracillaridae.Singh and Khan (1995)\r\nalso reported Mestocharella indica as a new species, which\r\nwas reared from the eggs of pentatomid bug collected from\r\nthe Arjun leaves.The members of Mestocharella are\r\ndistributed in South East Asia to Java, Solomon Islands\r\nand Australia (Boucek, 1988).\r\nTaxonomic description of a new species of the genus Mestocharella\r\n(Hymenoptera: Eulophidae) from the Kumaon hills of the Uttarakhand\r\n(India)\r\nSandeep Kumar, M.A. Khan* and Thangjam B.*\r\nG.B. Pant Institute of Himalayan Environment & Development, Himachal Unit, Mohal-Kullu (H.P.) India,\r\n*G.B. Pant Univ. of Agric. & Tech., Pantnagar (U.K.) India\r\nABSTRACT : A new species of the Genus Mestocharella (Hymenoptera: Eulophidae: Tetrastichinae),\r\nM. kausaniensis, parasitizing to a Lepidopteran leaf miner, is described and illustrated from India.\r\nKey words : Hymenoptera, Chalcidoidea, Eulophidae, Tetrastichinae, Uttarakhand, India\r\nAbbreviations : FS1-FS3 –Funicular segments first to third,MV- Marginal vein, SMV- Submarginal vein, STV- Stigmal\r\nvein, POL-Post ocellar distance, OOL- Ocellocular distance,TS-Tarsal segment\r\nISSN : 0975-1130\r\nBiological Forum — An International Journal, 2(2): 34-35(2010)\r\nRESULTS AND DISCUSSION\r\nMestocharella kausaniensis sp.nov. (Figs.1-10)\r\nFemale (Holotype): Body length about 1.645 mm; body\r\ncolour black; head black;ocelli reddish brown and eyes\r\nreddish black, antennae brown except scape pale yellow,\r\nthorax brownish black and nonirridescent; wings hyaline with\r\nbrown venation; legs yellowish white except coxae brownish\r\nyellow and TS4 dark brown; gaster with almost hexagonal\r\nyellow spot from base to second segment.\r\nHead (Fig. 1) : Less than 1.5 times wider than long in\r\nfrontal aspect (0.470: 0.380), smooth and sparsely setose,\r\nhead frontal grooves absent; frontovertex width distinctly\r\nmore than ½ the total head width (0.320: 0.470); vertex setae\r\nshort and sparse; ocelli arranged in obtuse angled triangle;\r\nPOL less than 1.5 times as long as OOL; compound eyes\r\nbulged, moderate in size and smooth, eyes orbits round;\r\nantennal toruli situated above the lower level of eye margin,\r\nprominence between antennal toruli more than 1/4th the width\r\nof frons between eyes (0.07: 0.30) malar sulcus absent; malar\r\nspace smooth almost 2 times longer than eye width (0.16:\r\n0.08); tentorial pits distinct and large; maxillary palp and\r\nlabial palp each single segmented; lower margin of clypeus\r\nwith a lobe medially.\r\nAntennae (Fig. 2) :8 segmented excluding 2 anelli, first\r\nanellus distinctly large; apical tip of antenna with moderate\r\nspicule, antennal formula 1,1,2,4,2; scape cylindrical slightly\r\nmore than 4.5 times as long as wide (0.190: 0.039), scape\r\napex touching to mid ocelli; pedicel less than 1.5 times as\r\nlong as wide (0.057: 0.043); funicle 4 segmented; FS1 long,\r\nmore than 2 times as long as wide (0.105: 0.048) and less\r\nthan 2 times as long as pedicel, FS2 less than 2.5 times as\r\nlong as wide (0.112: 0.045), FS3 slightly less than 2 times as\r\nlong as wide (0.103: 0.052), FS4 less than 2 times as long as\r\nwide (0.10: 0.055); club 2 segmented, more than 3 times as\r\nlong as wide (0.173:0.052), shorter than preceding two funicle\r\nsegments combined.\r\nKumar, Khan and Thangjam 35\r\nThorax (Fig. 4): Pronotum with prominent transverse\r\ncarina, bearing 8 pairs of setae (Fig. 3); mesoscutum less\r\nthan 2 times as wide as long (0.425: 0.222); mesoscutum\r\nhaving 3 pairs of adnotaular setae, notauli complete and\r\ndeep, median longitudinal groove absent; axilla almost not\r\nadvanced; scutellum smooth and longer than mesoscutum,\r\nless than 2 times as wide as long (0.425: 0.255) with\r\nsubmedian longitudinal grooves and 3 pairs of setae situated\r\non scutellum, grooves deep,broad and almost straight;\r\npropodeum almost smooth, with carinae delimiting\r\nsubpentagonal area, strong median carina and without\r\nparaspiracular carinae, propodeal spiracles round and\r\nmoderate in size and well separated from the anterior margin\r\nof propodeum spiracle rim fully exposed, callus with 4 long\r\nsetae; plicae high and sharp.\r\nFore wings (Fig. 6) : more than 2 times as long as wide\r\n(1.49: 0.595), densely setose; costal cell long, broad and\r\nbare; SMV with 6 setae directed upwards, shorter (0.44) than\r\nMV (0.47); MV bearing short setae on front edge; PMV\r\nvery short; SV long (0.05) slightly more than 1/9th of the\r\nlength of MV (0.470); marginal fringe short; basal vein with\r\n7 setae, basal cell bare; speculum narrow, closed\r\nbelow;cubital vein sinuate, subcubital line of hairs arising\r\nalmost from the base.\r\nHind wings : Blunt at its apex; marginal fringe moderate\r\nin length.\r\nFore Legs (Fig. 7): Coxa more than 2.5 times as long as\r\nwide (0.21: 0.08); femur more than 6 times as long as wide\r\n(0.305: 0.05), more than 1.5 times longer than tibia in length;\r\nfore tarsus shorter than length of tibia.\r\nMid legs (Fig. 8) : Coxa less than 1.5 times as long as\r\nwide (0.105: 0.075); femur more than 6.5 times as long as\r\nwide (0.345 : 0.05);less than 1.5 times shorter than tibia in\r\nlength, mid tarsus shorter than length of tibia, mid tibial\r\nspur much longer than fore and hind tibial spur.\r\nHind legs (Fig.9): Hind coxa slightly more than 2 times\r\nas long as wide (0.21: 0.10); femur more than 6 times as\r\nlong as wide (0.37: 0.06).\r\nGaster (Fig. 4) : Bulged, elongate and smooth, densely\r\nsetose at the posterior end ; basal area of 1st gasteral tergite\r\nfoveated with 6 longitudinal carinae; gasteral apical tip\r\nacuminate; petiole with 5 irregular longitudinal carinae;having\r\nknob at each pestero-lateral margin; not raised behind neck\r\n(Fig. 5);gaster a little shorter than thorax ; ovipositor sheaths\r\nnot exerted; first valvifers triangular (Fig. 10); anterior margin\r\nof basal part of second valvifers much curved; third valvulae\r\nmovably articulated with second valvifers, almost 5 times as\r\nlong as wide (0.10 : 0.02), almost 1/3rd the length of second\r\nvalvifers (0.30); outer plates of ovipositor slightly longer\r\nthan second valvifers, with a ridge along basal half of dorsal\r\nmargin (Fig. 10); cercal setae small.\r\nMale : Not examined.\r\nHolotype: , India, U.K., Ranikhet, Host unidentified\r\nleaf miner, Sweepnet collection from unidentified plant,\r\n10.10.07 Hym. Eulo. Nr. 128 (Sandeep Kumar).\r\nParatypes : 5 , same data as holotype Hym. Eulo Nr.\r\n128A (Sandeep Kumar).\r\nRemarks : The new species is allied to javensis Gahan\r\nbut differs from latter, by having the antennae brown colour\r\nexcept scape pale yellow with three distinct ring segments;\r\nFS1 less than 2 times as long as pedicel; scutellum smooth\r\nwith three pairs of setae, dorsellum without median carina,\r\ncallus with four setae; SMV with 6 dorsal setae, basal cell\r\nhairy, PMV almost rudimentary; gaster a little shorter than\r\nthorax with a conspicuous yellow spot from its base to\r\nsecondsegment.','Sandeep Kumar, M.A. Khan* and Thangjam B. (2010). Taxonomic description of a new species of the genus Mestocharella (Hymenoptera: Eulophidae) from the Kumaon hills of the Uttarakhand (India). Biological Forum — An International Journal, 2(2): 34-35. '),(4712,'128','Recharge of saline water aquifers with rain water and its impact on\r\nwater quality and crop production','Bhu Dayal and R.S Chauhan','8 BHUDYAL.pdf','',1,'In major part of arid and semi arid regions, the major irrigation water resources are ground water\r\naquifers, but due to presence of excess salt in these regions, it had adverse effect on crop productivity. Further\r\ndue to excess exploitation, it decline alarmingly year after year. So far sustaining the agriculture production we\r\nhave to maintain the ground water quantitatively and qualitatively. One of the options may be recharging this\r\nground water with run off rain water. The program is being initiated in Odara village under Operational\r\nResearch Project (ORP), R.B.S College, Bichpuri, Agra in 2008. The 8 farmers were selected and about 0.4\r\nhectares area selected for recharge irrigation on each farmer’s field. ECiw (ds/m) and SARiw (mmol/l) ½ in the\r\nmonth of June ranged from 10.9 to 15.0 and 12.5-24.0 respectively. The water salinity (ds/m) at 8 recharge tube\r\nwells varied from 0.5 to 7.2 at 1st pre-sowing irrigation, 6.4 to 10.8 at 2nd irrigation, 8.0 to 15.0 at 3rd irrigation\r\nand 9.4 to 17.0 at 4th irrigation. On 8 farmers field the wheat yield varied from 4.96 to 5.88 t/ha while on other\r\nfarmers field the yield varied from 4.58 to 5.40 t/ha which used high salinity water. The percent wheat yield\r\nincreased by 8.1 on recharge farmer’s field over other farmer’s field.','-','The overall study clearly indicates that recharge saline\r\nwater used safely at early crop growth stages which enhance\r\nthe germination and filtering. Further water salinity of\r\nrecharge water increased at later growth stages. The percent\r\nwheat yield increased by 8.1 with recharge water as compare\r\nto those which were used the high salinity water.','The major part of arid and semi arid regions, the main\r\nirrigation water resources are ground water aquifers, but due\r\nto presence of excess salt in these regions, it had adverse\r\non crop productivity. Further due to excess exploitation, it\r\ndeclines year after year. So far sustaining the agriculture\r\nproduction we have to maintain the ground water aquifer\r\nquantitatively and qualitatively one of the options may be\r\nto recharging this ground water with rain water. Rain water\r\nbeing lighter will over flow the saline aquifers which can be\r\nirrigated for early crop growth stages in rabi season crops.\r\nMATERIALS AND METHODS\r\nThe ground water recharging work has initiated in 2008.\r\nAgra Bharatpur region in the states of Uttar Pradesh and\r\nRajasthan are endowed with poor quality ground water\r\naquifers. Shallow aquifers are relatively more saline (10-15\r\nds/m) relatively to deeper aquifers (2-6 ds/m). The resource\r\npoor farmers of the region who cannot afford to drill deep\r\nbores are contented with exploiting the saline aquifers to\r\ngive one/two life saving irrigation(s) to mustard.\r\nFig. 1. Low cost recharge technique.\r\nRecharge of saline water aquifers with rain water and its impact on\r\nwater quality and crop production\r\nBhu Dayal and R.S Chauhan\r\nR.B.S College, Bichpuri, Agra (UP)\r\nABSTRACT : In major part of arid and semi arid regions, the major irrigation water resources are ground water\r\naquifers, but due to presence of excess salt in these regions, it had adverse effect on crop productivity. Further\r\ndue to excess exploitation, it decline alarmingly year after year. So far sustaining the agriculture production we\r\nhave to maintain the ground water quantitatively and qualitatively. One of the options may be recharging this\r\nground water with run off rain water. The program is being initiated in Odara village under Operational\r\nResearch Project (ORP), R.B.S College, Bichpuri, Agra in 2008. The 8 farmers were selected and about 0.4\r\nhectares area selected for recharge irrigation on each farmer’s field. ECiw (ds/m) and SARiw (mmol/l) ½ in the\r\nmonth of June ranged from 10.9 to 15.0 and 12.5-24.0 respectively. The water salinity (ds/m) at 8 recharge tube\r\nwells varied from 0.5 to 7.2 at 1st pre-sowing irrigation, 6.4 to 10.8 at 2nd irrigation, 8.0 to 15.0 at 3rd irrigation\r\nand 9.4 to 17.0 at 4th irrigation. On 8 farmers field the wheat yield varied from 4.96 to 5.88 t/ha while on other\r\nfarmers field the yield varied from 4.58 to 5.40 t/ha which used high salinity water. The percent wheat yield\r\nincreased by 8.1 on recharge farmer’s field over other farmer’s field.\r\nISSN : 0975-1130\r\nBiological Forum — An International Journal, 2(2): 36-37(2010)\r\nThus, under such a situation, yields are reduced due to\r\nhigh salinity of the irrigation water. In order to improve crop\r\nproductivity, at low cost technology based on diluting saline\r\ngroundwater through artificial recharge has been designed\r\nand tested on 8 farmer’s fields. The technology consisted\r\nof diverting the runoff to these structures for recharge\r\n(Fig. 1).\r\nThe diluted groundwater is then pumped to irrigate\r\nmustard/wheat. The salinity of the groundwater is reduced\r\nin most cases to less than 4 ds/m but eventually reaches to\r\nits original value during 3rd or 4th irrigation . The irrigation\r\nwith low quality water at initial growth stage boosts the\r\nyield to normal level in the case of mustard and wheat. The\r\nwater quality parameters pertaining to tube well water of at\r\n8 selected farmers in the month of June are given in\r\nTable 1.\r\nTable 1 : Water quality of farmers tube well.\r\nName of the farmer ECiw(dS/m) RSC(meq/l) SAR(mmol/l)1/2\r\nBalveer Singh 11.8 — 13.9\r\nRam Bharose 15.0 — 19.0\r\nHari Prasad 13.5 — 12.5\r\nLal Hans 10.9 — 16.2\r\nDinesh Chand 11.0 — 17.0\r\nMukesh Kumar 13.8 — 24.0\r\nRanveer Singh 11.1 — 15.4\r\nJagan Singh 12.6 — 15.5\r\nRESULTS AND DISCUSSION\r\nThe tube well boring was used for recharging of ground\r\nwater by diverting the run off at farmers field. The wheat\r\ncrop was sown on eight selected farmer’s field in about 0.4\r\nha area. Four to five regular irrigations were applied through\r\nbore well. The water salinity measurement of recharge water\r\nwas also made at each irrigation (Table 2). It is clear at the\r\ntime of first irrigation i.e. in month of November- December\r\nDayal and Chauhan 37\r\naverage ECiw (ds/m) was varied from 0.5 to 7.2 at first pre\r\nsowing irrigation; 6.4 to 10.8 at 2nd irrigation; 8.0 to 15.0 at\r\n3rd irrigation and 9.4 to 17.0 at 4th irrigation.\r\nTable 2 : Water salinity fluctuations at different\r\nirrigations on recharge sites.\r\nName 1st irrigation 2nd irrigation 3rd irrigation 4th irrigation\r\nBalveer Singh 0.5 7.7 10.3 13.7\r\nHari Prasad 6.1 10.5 16.1 17.0\r\nJagan Singh 0.5 8.3 9.3 9.4\r\nMukesh Kumar 4.7 10.2 14.1 15.0\r\nRanveer Singh 6.5 10.6 12.7 13.0\r\nRam Bharosee 7.2 10.8 15.0 16.5\r\nLal Hans 5.0 10.2 12.2 13.0\r\nDinesh Chand 1.4 6.4 8.0 9.5\r\nThe recharge ground water was used for irrigation\r\nsafely at early growth stages. Further the water salinity\r\nincreased at 3rd and 4th irrigations. The soil salinity and\r\nSAR was also monitored at harvest of wheat crop (Table 3).\r\nTable 3 : Effect of recharge saline water on grain yield\r\nof wheat and soil characteristics (0-30 cm) at harvest.\r\nName O.R.P yield Farmers yield % increase ECe pH2 SAR\r\nt/hat/ha (dS/m)\r\nBalveer Singh 5.56 5.15 8.0 9.9 7.7 14.1\r\nHari Prasad 5.33 4.95 7.7 14.7 7.2 17.5\r\nJagan Singh 5.88 5.43 8.4 13.5 7.3 15.5\r\nMukesh Kumar 5.25 4.83 8.7 5.3 7.3 14.1\r\nRanveer Singh 5.41 5.03 7.5 13.6 7.4 24.6\r\nRam Bharosee 5.40 5.02 7.6 15.0 7.5 25.3\r\nLal Hans 4.96 4.58 8.3 13.9 17.6 25.2\r\nDinesh Chand 5.12 4.71 8.5 7.5 7.9 19.9\r\nOverall 8.1\r\nOn 8 farmers field the wheat yield varied from 4.96 to\r\n5.88 t/ha while on other farmers field yield varied from 4.58\r\nto 5.40 t/ha which used high salinity water. The percent\r\nwheat yield increased by 8.1 on recharge farmer’s field over\r\nother farmer’s field. Bhu Dayal (2009), Panda et al., (2009),\r\nPatil et al., (2009), Singh et al., (2009), who observed a\r\ngeneral increase in crop yield with recharge water and\r\nimprovement in quality of irrigation water with rain water.','Bhu Dayal and R.S Chauhan (2010). Recharge of saline water aquifers with rain water and its impact on water quality and crop production. Biological Forum — An International Journal, 2(2): 36-37. '),(4713,'128','Biodiversity of Mosquitovorus dragonflies (Order: Odonata) from\r\nKolhapur district including Western Ghats','T.V. Sathe and A.R. Bhusnar','9 TV SATHE.pdf','',1,'Biodiversity protection and conservation is on national and international agenda and responsible\r\nfor sustainable development of a region or a country and secondly dragonflies are potential bio control agents of\r\nmosquitoes. Therefore, biodiversity of mosquitovorus dragonflies of Kolhapur district including Western Ghats of\r\nMaharashtra has been studied. In all, 43 species of dragonflies were found feeding on mosquitoes. The important\r\ngenera includes Gomphus, Burmagomphus, Cyclogomphus Microgomphus, Anax, Macromia, Orthetrum, Potomarcha,\r\nPantala, Chlorogomphus, Epophthalmia, Indionyx, Amphithemis, Hylaeothemis, Heliogompuhus Davidiodies\r\nBradinopyga, Crocothemis and Lameligomphus.','Diversity, mosquitovorus dragonflies, Kolhapur, western Ghats','Biodiversity protection and conservation is on national and international agenda and responsible\r\nfor sustainable development of a region or a country and secondly dragonflies are potential bio control agents of\r\nmosquitoes. Therefore, biodiversity of mosquitovorus dragonflies of Kolhapur district including Western Ghats of\r\nMaharashtra has been studied. In all, 43 species of dragonflies were found feeding on mosquitoes. The important\r\ngenera includes Gomphus, Burmagomphus, Cyclogomphus Microgomphus, Anax, Macromia, Orthetrum, Potomarcha,\r\nPantala, Chlorogomphus, Epophthalmia, Indionyx, Amphithemis, Hylaeothemis, Heliogompuhus Davidiodies\r\nBradinopyga, Crocothemis and Lameligomphus.','Dragonflies are commonly found near ponds, pools,\r\nrivers, streams, marshy places etc. They are reported from\r\nsea levels to over 3,600 M and from brakish marshy areas\r\nto desert lands from all over the world. Out of 5000 species\r\nreorted from the word, 500 species belonging to 139 genera\r\nof 17 families have been reported from India (Kulkarni and\r\nPrasad 2002). Prasad and Kulkarni, (2001) reported 71\r\nspecies from Nilgiri Biosphere reserve and its environment.\r\nPrasad and Kulkanri, (2002) also reported additional 34\r\nspecies from Kerala. From Western Ghats 138 species have\r\nbeen reported, but most of the studies are confined to\r\nWestern Ghats of Kerala and very little attention is paid on\r\nthe Western Ghats of Maharashtra except the work of Sathe\r\nand Shinde, (2008 a and b). Western Ghats is among the 18\r\nhot spots of the world from the view point of conservation\r\nand protection of biodiversity. Secondly, dragonflies are\r\npotential bio-control agents of mosquitoes. Therefore,\r\npresent study was undertaken. In past, Fraser (1933, 34, 36),\r\nPrasad (1995, 1996). Prasad and Varshney (1995), Prasad and\r\nKulkarni (2001, 2002), Kulkarni and Prasad (2002), Sathe and\r\nShinde (2006, 2007, 2008 a. b.) etc have worked on\r\nbiodiversity of Odonata from India.\r\nBiodiversity of Mosquitovorus dragonflies (Order: Odonata) from\r\nKolhapur district including Western Ghats\r\nT.V. Sathe and A.R. Bhusnar\r\nDepartment of Zoology, Shivaji University Kolhapur (MS), India\r\nABSTRACT : Biodiversity protection and conservation is on national and international agenda and responsible\r\nfor sustainable development of a region or a country and secondly dragonflies are potential bio control agents of\r\nmosquitoes. Therefore, biodiversity of mosquitovorus dragonflies of Kolhapur district including Western Ghats of\r\nMaharashtra has been studied. In all, 43 species of dragonflies were found feeding on mosquitoes. The important\r\ngenera includes Gomphus, Burmagomphus, Cyclogomphus Microgomphus, Anax, Macromia, Orthetrum, Potomarcha,\r\nPantala, Chlorogomphus, Epophthalmia, Indionyx, Amphithemis, Hylaeothemis, Heliogompuhus Davidiodies\r\nBradinopyga, Crocothemis and Lameligomphus.\r\nKeywords : Diversity, mosquitovorus dragonflies, Kolhapur, western Ghats.\r\nISSN : 0975-1130\r\nBiological Forum — An International Journal, 2(2): 38-41(2010)\r\nMATERIAL AND METHODS\r\nSurvey of dragonflies was made by visiting various\r\nTahsils of Kolhapur district including westerns Ghats at\r\nweekly interval from the years 2008 - 10. Mostly, spot\r\nobservation was followed by photography and rarely\r\nOdonates were collected from the Ghats for their\r\nidentification. After noting characteristics the live dragonflies\r\nwere released in the environment from where they collected.\r\nThe dragonflies were identified by consulting Fraser (1933,\r\n34, 36); Lahiri (1987), Silsby (2001), Sathe and Shinde (2008\r\na) etc. and mosquitoes were identified by consulting Smith\r\n(1973) and Sathe and Tingare (2010). Prey index have been\r\nprepared by spot observations and by providing 50\r\nmosquito larvae to naids of dragonfly species in glass\r\nAquarium size 3\' × 2\' × 1\' (L × W × H).\r\nRESULTS\r\nThe results recorded in table-1 shows that 31\r\nspecies of mosquitovorus dragonflies were common and\r\n12 species were rare in Kolhapur district including\r\nWestern Ghats, Maharashtra.','T.V. Sathe and A.R. Bhusnar (2010). Biodiversity of Mosquitovorus dragonflies (Order: Odonata) from Kolhapur district including Western Ghats. Biological Forum — An International Journal, 2(2): 38-41. '),(4714,'128','Physiological profile of foundry workers in response to work place\r\nenvironment','R.B. More and V.A. Sawant','10 RB MOORE.pdf','',1,'Foundry environment is characterized by a multitude of concomitantly occurring exposures, such\r\nas silica dust, various chemicals, noise, heat, radiations, etc. Physiological profile of workers indicates variations\r\nin heart rate, blood pressure as well as body temperature.','Foundry environment, workers, physical fitness','Foundry environment is characterized by a multitude of concomitantly occurring exposures, such\r\nas silica dust, various chemicals, noise, heat, radiations, etc. Physiological profile of workers indicates variations\r\nin heart rate, blood pressure as well as body temperature.','New technological developments in industry today\r\nproduce seven times more goods than it did some fifty\r\nyears ago. While industrial developments have brought\r\nobvious benefits, it has also frequently increased risk of\r\ndamage to the human health and environment. Foundry\r\nindustry gives direct employment to about 25% of all\r\nindustrial labors. So problems of comfort and health of\r\nfoundry workers are of paramount importance. The work\r\nplace environment influences significantly the health status\r\nof workers Toru et. al., (1986).\r\nIn previous study More and Sawant (2001) have\r\nobserved that the workplace environment in foundry was\r\nextremely adverse due to high concentration of coal dust,\r\nsilica dust, extremely high temperature and noise.In the\r\npresent study efforts have been made to correlate the\r\nphysiologic responses of foundry workers and their work\r\nplace environment.\r\nMATERIALS AND METHODS\r\nThe present study was undertaken at private foundry\r\nunit in Kolhapur M.I.D.C area. Workers were assessed for\r\nthe study of work physiology and stress effects for\r\nsocioeconomic information. The assessment methods also\r\nincluded personal interviews with workers. A standard,\r\nquestionnaire was used to collect information of workers\r\nconcerned with age, experience, marital status, family size,\r\nmonthly income, habits, health status and health problems\r\nand information related with occupational stresses. The\r\nphysiological evaluation of randomly selected workers was\r\ncarried out from different sections. Most of the work in the\r\nfoundry unit was of repetitive nature, which was carried\r\nout in three shifts. Persons working in the office were\r\ntreated as control subjects (C).\r\nWork place environment. Sound levels at different\r\nsections in foundry unit were recorded by sound level meter\r\nin decibel (db). Record of thermal data such as dry bulb\r\nand wet bulb temperatures were made in various foundry\r\nsections during working hours. Assessment of thermal load\r\nwith special reference to different physiological responses\r\nof foundry workers was carried out. The illumination levels\r\nat different sections inside the foundry unit were recorded\r\nby a lux meter. Assessment of foundry dust was carried\r\nout by Rotorod Air Sampler.\r\nPhysical characteristics of workers. The physical\r\ncharacteristics (anthropometric measurement) height and\r\nweight of workers were recorded with standard technique\r\nof occupational safety and health Kohn et. al., (1996).\r\nPhysical fitness. The physical fitness of some randomly\r\nselected workers was carried out by Harward Modified Step\r\nTest.\r\nGrip strength study. In randomly selected workers\r\nphysical fitness was studied for grip strength by grip\r\ndynamometer.\r\nPhysiological responses. The physiological responses\r\nof an individual changes with the work and working\r\ncondition of the workers was studied. Twenty five selected\r\nworkers studied for physiological responses on any working\r\nday. The pulse rate/min of subject were recorded from\r\ncarotid pulse. The blood pressures were recorded by\r\nsphygmomanometer. The axial temperature of subject and\r\nbody temperature were recorded by clinical thermometer.\r\nRESULTS AND DISCUSSION\r\nIn foundry industry thousands of workers was working\r\nin various sections like sand plant, core shop, moulding\r\nsection, furnace section and fettling shop, performing\r\nrepetitive identical cycles of operations. The socioeconomic\r\nstudy of workers reveals that most of the workers working\r\nin foundry are illiterate, smoker, alcoholic and earning less\r\nfor work done. Work environment was extremely adverse\r\nwith prevalence of high temperature, high noise intensity,\r\ndust concentration, poor ventilation, and variety of fumes\r\nas well as excessive work load. These conditions make it\r\nPhysiological profile of foundry workers in response to work place\r\nenvironment\r\nR.B. More and V.A. Sawant\r\nDivision of Physiology, Department of Zoology, Shivaji University,\r\nKolhapur, (M.S.)\r\nABSTRACT : Foundry environment is characterized by a multitude of concomitantly occurring exposures, such\r\nas silica dust, various chemicals, noise, heat, radiations, etc. Physiological profile of workers indicates variations\r\nin heart rate, blood pressure as well as body temperature.\r\nKeywords : Foundry environment, workers, physical fitness\r\nISSN : 0975-1130\r\nBiological Forum — An International Journal, 2(2): 42-45(2010)\r\nMore and Sawant 43\r\nextremely difficult to maintain the appropriate level of health\r\nstatus of foundry workers\r\nFoundry indoor environment : Survey of indoor\r\nworking environment in foundry indicates that the work\r\nenvironment was extremely adverse. The noise level in\r\nfettling shop ranges from 102-105 dB, in furnace section it\r\nwas about 85 dB and in core shop 80 dB. Light is important\r\nenvironmental factor. Illumation level recorded in office 1000\r\nlux, furnace section 750 lux and core shop 735 lux which\r\nwas adequate. Inadequate illumination leads poor\r\ncoordination of eyes and makes the situation more\r\ncomplicated. Workers complain about visual strain.\r\nIllumination level in sand plant was 190 lux and in moulding\r\nsection it was 230 lux.\r\nHeat stress is important environmental stress factor\r\nwhich affects the health status of workers. Working\r\nconditions in foundry were too hot near the core furnace\r\nand in melting area. Dust from foundry shakeout and returns\r\nsand hardening system is composed of sand particles which\r\nare fractured by heat, binders such as bentonite. Dust from\r\ncleaning equipments such a shot blasting machines,\r\nvibrators and grinders contains all these particles and large\r\npercentage of iron particles.\r\nTable 1 shows number of workers in various sections\r\nof foundry. The length of service varies from minimum 8\r\nyears to maximum 12.2 years. Mean body height ranges\r\nfrom 158.5 cm to maximum 162.33 cm and body weight of\r\nworkers ranges from 48 to 65.25 kg.','R.B. More and V.A. Sawant (2010). Physiological profile of foundry workers in response to work place environment. Biological Forum — An International Journal, 2(2): 42-45. '),(4715,'128','Potential fishing zone (PFZ) advisories-Are they beneficial to the\r\ncoastal fisherfolk? A case study along Kerala coast, South India','V.N. Pillai and Preetha G. Nair','11 VN PILLAI.pdf','',1,'Intensive validation of Potential Fishing Zone (PFZ)advisories generated by the Indian National\r\nCentre for Ocean Information services(INCOIS) along the Kerala coast during the period 2006-2010 revealed a\r\npositive relationship between PFZ and occurrence/abundance of commercially important pelagic fishes. The\r\nusefulness of PFZ advisories for artisanal, motorized and small mechanized sector fishermen towards obtaining\r\ncomparatively higher catch per unit effort for the major pelagics and thereby improving the economics of fishing\r\noperations is highlighted. Analysis of catch data from active fisherfolk and controlled experiments undertaken\r\nwithin and outside notified areas simultaneously showed that catch per unit effort (CPUE) was more in notified\r\nareas compared to un notified areas. The extra quantity of fish caught in notified areas is about 2 to 6 times The\r\npercentage of extra monetary benefit obtained in notified areas is about 2 to 7 times.','Occurrence/abundance major pelagics, Kerala, satellite based PFZ advisory, validation.','The study revealed that Potential Fishing Zone\r\nadvisories, the only short-term forecast for marine fisheries\r\navailable in the country which are brought out on the basis\r\nof satellite Sea Surface Temperature (SST) and chlorophyll\r\nimageries is found useful for locating pelagic fish\r\nconcentrations. The major beneficiaries are the artisanal and\r\nsmall- mechanized/ motorized sector fishermen. Timely\r\nforecasts of PFZ based on SST and or surface chlorophyll\r\nconcentrations can help in obtaining higher catch per unit\r\neffort and for minimizing the searching time for shoaling\r\nfishes which in turn can result in the saving of valuable\r\nhuman effort and also fuel for the mechanized/ motorized\r\nvessels there by bringing down the overall cost of fishing\r\noperations.\r\nFishing operations undertaken on or closer to dates\r\non which related SST/chlorophyll images have been\r\nreceived yielded positive results. When the gap increases\r\nthe yield within PFZ is likely to come down unless the\r\nfeatures remain more or less in the same location as\r\nrevealed by the succeeding satellite imagery. The fish catch\r\nwithin PFZ area gave higher CPUE and net profit compared\r\nto the results of operations outside PFZ areas. Average\r\nincome derived by vessels which operated in the PFZ areas\r\nwere considerably higher than vessels which operated\r\noutside PFZ areas. Fishing expenses were also\r\ncomparatively less for vessels which operated within PFZ\r\nthrough reduction in searching time which in turn resulted\r\nin saving of valuable fuel oil and also human effort.\r\nApproximately 71% of the total marine fish catch along\r\nKerala coast is from pelagic species. Oil sardine, mackerel,\r\nanchovies, tunas, seer fishes, carangids etc; constitute about\r\n65% of the pelagic stock that is about 35% of the total\r\nmarine fish catch of the country as a whole. The usefulness\r\nof PFZ advisories for the marine fishermen engaged in\r\ndifferent types of pelagic fishing activities does not need\r\nany further emphasis.\r\nTo sum up, where fishing is targeted at a pelagic\r\nresource which is migratory in habit, the PFZ will definitely\r\nprovide an advantage in terms of reduction in searching\r\ntime, in turn reduction in the consumption of fuel oil and\r\nhuman effort and also an increase in CPUE which ultimately\r\nwill make the fishing operation economically viable.','The aim of the present study is to establish, beyond\r\ndoubt, the usefulness of PFZ advisories to the coastal\r\nfisherfolk along Kerala coast by way of working out the\r\neconomics of operation of Ring seiners by employing\r\nidentical vessels operating more or less identical fishing\r\ngear simultaneously within and outside notified areas (PFZ)\r\nthrough controlled experiments.\r\nThe usefulness of PFZ advisories for locating pelagic\r\nfish concentrations along Kerala coast was initiated jointly\r\nby Scientists of CMFRI, FSI and SAC as early as 1981\r\n(Gopalan and Silas, 1985). Subsequently the usefulness of\r\nthe technology for locating pelagic fish concentration along\r\nKerala coast was established based on validation attempted\r\nsince 1996 (Pillai et.al., 1996, 1997, 1998, 2000, 2006, 2007)\r\nBACKGROUND\r\nIn India, in the last few decades, fisheries research\r\ntogether with the technological advancement in the harvest\r\nand post-harvest scenario accelerated the process of\r\ntransformation of a subsistence oriented traditional sector\r\nmarine fisheries into a market oriented multi crore industrial\r\nsector activity with considerable strength and capabilities\r\nin essential infrastructures. With the result, the marine fish\r\nproduction has made great leaps through successive stages\r\nand the yield reached around 3.21 million metric tonnes by\r\nthe year 2008.\r\nAlthough the achievements were tremendous, gradually\r\nthis common property was stressed and led to overharvest\r\nof at least a few easily vulnerable and target species and\r\ndegradation of some of the fish habitats perhaps even to\r\nthe extent of denudation by the unbridled human greed.\r\nThe situation is closely similar to the global marine fisheries\r\nscenario wherein 70% of the fish stocks (mostly demersal\r\nand crustaceans) are either fully exploited, over fished,\r\ndepleted or slowly recovering. Of late the emphasis is\r\nshifting from increasing production from coastal fisheries\r\nto sustaining the resource base.\r\nKerala state with a coast line of 590km ranks first for\r\nmarine fish production in India, contributing more than 6\r\nlakhs metric tonnes to the total annual production of 32\r\nlakhs metric tonnes. The export of marine products from\r\nthe State earns valuable foreign exchange besides affording\r\ninnumerable job opportunities in the industry. The human\r\npopulation depending on fisheries has steadily increased\r\nover the years and reached at 602234 in 2005 (Anon, 2005).\r\nKerala has been in the forefront of absorbing innovative\r\nand new technologies in fishing practices, which have led\r\nthe marine fisheries sector to take a complex structure. The\r\n1980s was an important period in the development of marine\r\nfisheries in Kerala. In the first half of the period the\r\nmotorized sector grew rapidly and became the most\r\nimportant sector yielding maximum catch in 1988. By that\r\ntime, ring seine became very popular in exploiting the\r\npelagic resources and replaced the boat seines to a large\r\nextent. Huge size of the new net (450 to1000 m long) and\r\nlarge number of crew (30 to 50) needed for its operation\r\nnecessitated larger boats with powerful outboard engines\r\n(3 outboard engines of 40hp each). This facilitated extension\r\nPotential fishing zone (PFZ) advisories-Are they beneficial to the\r\ncoastal fisherfolk? A case study along Kerala coast, South India\r\nV.N. Pillai and Preetha G. Nair*\r\nFormer Director, CMFRI(ICAR) and Principal Investigator, INCOIS funded project\r\non PFZ validation, CMFRI, Kochi, Kerala, India\r\n*Senior Research Fellow, INCOIS funded project on PFZ validation,\r\nCMFRI, Kochi, Kerala, India.\r\nABSTRACT : Intensive validation of Potential Fishing Zone (PFZ)advisories generated by the Indian National\r\nCentre for Ocean Information services(INCOIS) along the Kerala coast during the period 2006-2010 revealed a\r\npositive relationship between PFZ and occurrence/abundance of commercially important pelagic fishes. The\r\nusefulness of PFZ advisories for artisanal, motorized and small mechanized sector fishermen towards obtaining\r\ncomparatively higher catch per unit effort for the major pelagics and thereby improving the economics of fishing\r\noperations is highlighted. Analysis of catch data from active fisherfolk and controlled experiments undertaken\r\nwithin and outside notified areas simultaneously showed that catch per unit effort (CPUE) was more in notified\r\nareas compared to un notified areas. The extra quantity of fish caught in notified areas is about 2 to 6 times The\r\npercentage of extra monetary benefit obtained in notified areas is about 2 to 7 times.\r\nKeywords : Occurrence/abundance major pelagics, Kerala, satellite based PFZ advisory, validation.\r\nISSN : 0975-1130\r\nBiological Forum — An International Journal, 2(2): 46-55(2010)\r\nPillai and Nair 47\r\nof fishing grounds for the motorized sector. The fishing\r\ngrounds covered by the mechanized sector also got\r\nextended by increasing the boat size, fishing effort and\r\nefficiency through multi-day fishing during the late 90’s.\r\nDuring 2001-2008, the total marine fish production from\r\nKerala varied from 5.14 lakh tonnes (2001) to 6.70 lakh\r\ntonnes (2008), with an annual average landings of 5.98 lakh\r\ntonnes (Srinath, 2005; CMFRI 2009). According to the\r\nCMFRI census 2005, it is estimated that there are 29,177\r\nmarine fishing craft in Kerala, of which 14,151 (49%) and\r\n5,504 (19%) craft belong to the motorized and mechanized\r\nsector respectively and 9,522 (32%) constitute the traditional\r\nsector. The landings are mainly contributed by the\r\nmechanized (56%) and motorized (42%) sectors. In the\r\nmechanized/ motorized sector ring seine is the major\r\ncontributor to the landings (3.04 lakh tonnes in 2008)\r\nfollowed by trawls (1.57 lakh tonnes in 2008). Other gears\r\ndeployed by the fishermen included the gill nets, hooks\r\nand line, boat seine sand purse seines. Around 800 species\r\nof marine fishes are landed along the Kerala coast of which\r\nabout 200 are commercially important and are classified as\r\npelagics, demersals, crustaceans and cephalopods. The\r\nmajor pelagic resources include the oil sardine, lesser\r\nsardines, anchovies, mackerel, tunas, ribbon. fishes and\r\ncarangids. The major demersal fish resources include sharks,\r\nrays, threadfin breams, lizardfishes, sciaenids and soles.\r\nPenaeid and non penaeid prawns, crabs, stomatopods and\r\nlobsters constitute crustacean resources while squids,\r\ncuttlefishes and octopus contribute the cephalopod\r\nlandings. Pelagic groups dominate the landings forming 71%\r\nfollowed by demersals (14%), crustaceans (9%) and\r\ncephalopods (6%) (CMFRI, 2009). In the mechanized/\r\nmotorized sector, Ring seiners contributed 51% of the total\r\nlandings dominated by Oil sardine, Mackerel and small\r\nCarangids (CMFRI, 2009).\r\nIn Seventies and eighties witnessed a sharp decline in\r\nmarine fish production on the one hand and a sharp increase\r\nin fishing in puts and efforts on the otherhand. The\r\nsubsequent increase in fishing pressure naturally led to\r\nover exploitation of fishery resources especially in the\r\ninshore waters where the different groups in the fishing\r\nsector engaged in cutthroat competition.\r\nThe traditional sector which dominated till 1983\r\ndeclined fast and in 1986 its contribution to the total fish\r\ncatch was only 4%. On the other hand the mechanized\r\nsector grew rapidly with a contribution of 46% in 1986,\r\nThe recently originated motorised sector eclipsed the other\r\ntwo sectors and dominated the marine fishing scenario of\r\nKerala since 1988 with a contribution of 51% to the total.\r\nConsidering the diversity of the fishery resources in\r\nthese waters, suitable fishing gera for seasonal operation\r\nhave been developed and utilized by the artisanal fishermen\r\nof Kerala. They are generally ecofriendly causing little or\r\ndamage to the ecosystem. Subsequently the introduction\r\nof modern fishing technology such as Trawling and Purse\r\nseining – which have comparatively high catching power\r\ntook over the share of artiasanal gears having higher\r\ncatching efficiency and more suitable to the local conditions.\r\nSimultaneously, the introduction of outboard motors (OBMs)\r\nin the early eighties enhanced the fishing capabilities of\r\nthe artisanal group. During this process some craft and\r\ngear which showed poor performance disappeared while\r\nothers were modified and new ones created.\r\nIn the central region (Kollam to Chavakkad) the plank\r\nbuilt canoe, which contributed the principal type of craft,\r\nthe size has been gradually increased to nearly double to\r\nits original size due to change in the region of propulsion\r\nfrom manpower to OBM. The single boat “Thanguvala”\r\nwas modified in to “Ring seine”, a surrounding (encircling)\r\ngear.\r\nIn the northern region (Ponnani to Kasargod) the\r\npopular dug out Canoe was slightly modified to hold the\r\nOBM. The replacement “Kollivala” with “Ring seine” was\r\none of the important impacts of motorization. During the\r\nmotorization process, the Ring seine has made tremendous\r\nimpact on other artisanal fishing gear and also brought\r\nchanges in the fish production pattern along the belt.\r\nMotorisation enabled the transformation of boat seining\r\ninto surrounding (encircling) method of Ring seining.\r\nBased on the craft used and targeted fish the following\r\ntypes of Ring seines have emerged:\r\nCraft wise Targeted fish wise\r\nPlank built Canoe Ringseine for Sardine- Ring vala\r\n(Single boat or double boat for Anchovy- Choodavala\r\ntypes)\r\nDug out Canoe ring seine\r\n(with 4 dug out canoes with for Sardine- Rani vala\r\nmaximum of 7 canoes during for Anchovy- Mandu vala\r\nbulk landings)\r\nThe development of a variety of Ring seines as\r\nmentioned above operated by a single boat/2 boats/4 boats\r\nup to a maximum of 7 boats substantiate the innovation of\r\nartisanal fisherfolk along these lines.\r\nRing seines are broadly classified into 2 categories viz.\r\n1. Thanguvala (medium size – 400 m × 60 m with mesh\r\nsize 20 mm). Large size 800 to 1700 m with mesh\r\nsize of 22 mm targeted at Sardine, Mackerel etc.\r\n2. Chooda vala or disco vala (250 to 500 m/ 45-75 m\r\nwith mesh size of 8-10 mm targeted at Anchovies.\r\nThe sharing of the pelagic and demersal common\r\nproperty fishery resources of the continental shelf waters\r\nhas created, in the recent past, considerable tensions, law\r\n48 Pillai and Nair\r\nand order conflicts among various fishing communities in\r\nthe coastal belt. The emergence of a scientifically informed\r\ngovernance system in the marine fisheries sector is a\r\nwelcome sign. There is need to find a solution for the\r\nsustainable long-term economic utilization of these resources\r\nby maintaining the exploited fish stocks through proper\r\nregulatory measures. Possibilities of bringing down the\r\nsearching time for pelagic shoaling fishes, which constitute\r\nmore than 70% of the total fish landings, assume great\r\nsignificance since this factor can bring down the cost of\r\nfishing operations by way of savings on valuable fuel oil\r\nand human effort.\r\nIt is well known that the adaptation of fish to the\r\nsurrounding marine environment is controlled by various\r\nphysico-chemical and biological factors. Fishes are known\r\nto react to changes in the surrounding environmental\r\nconditions and migrate to areas where favourable\r\nenvironmental conditions in terms of seawater temperature,\r\nsalinity, dissolved oxygen level etc., exist. The availability\r\nof food is an important factor that controls their occurrence,\r\nabundance and migrations in the sea. Sea Surface\r\nTemperature (SST) is the most easily observed\r\nenvironmental parameter and is quite often correlated with\r\nthe availability of fish, especially pelagic fish. Changes in\r\nSST can result from changes occurring in the direction/\r\nvelocity of both horizontal and vertical circulation process\r\nin the sea. Many pelagic species are known to concentrate\r\nat current boundaries especially in areas with sharp\r\nhorizontal temperature gradients. Monitoring the above\r\nmentioned parameters in space and time is time consuming\r\nand prohibitively expensive and a real time picture of any\r\none of these parameters or a combination of the above\r\nbecomes almost impossible. Indirect methods of monitoring\r\nselected parameters such as SST and phytoplankton\r\npigments (Chlorophyll-a) at sea surface from satellites is\r\nfound very ideal as it provides high repetivity and large\r\nspatial coverage.\r\nThe ocean fronts play a key role in the form of\r\nbiogeographical boundaries. Very often distinct biotopes\r\nare separated by fronts attracting fishes into these areas.\r\nMany pelagics are known to concentrate at current\r\nboundaries especially in areas with sharp horizontal\r\ntemperature gradients. Physical changes resulting out of\r\nchanges resulting out of changes in sea water temperature,\r\ncurrents and coastal upwelling influence ocean productivity\r\nand distribution of species.\r\nThe use of satellite capabilities in fisheries research\r\nwas studied by Laskar et.al., (1981), Laurs et.al., (1984) and\r\nothers. Breaker (1982) used Advanced Very High Resolution\r\nRadiometer (AVHRR) and Coastal Zone colour Seanner\r\n(CZCS) data to demonstrate the role of oceanic fronts in\r\nthe habitat and migration of albacore tuna, Arnone (1987)\r\nused CZCS and AVHRR data to understand the relationship\r\nbetween chlorophyll-a and SST. Mayors and Hick (1990)\r\napplied satellite derived SST data in realtime for the\r\nexploration of fishery resources in Australian waters.\r\nIn India, the Ministry of Earth Sciences, Govt.of India\r\n(erstwhile Department of ocean Development), Department\r\nof Space and several institutions under the Ministry of\r\nAgriculture persued an endeavor for over two decades\r\njointly with the Maritime State Governments to provide\r\nPotential fishing Zone (PFZ) advisories to the Indian fishing\r\ncommunity using SST data. Several experiments were\r\nconducted by Space Application Centre (SAC) (Dwivedi\r\net.al., 1988) and National Remote Sensing Centre (NRSC)\r\nerstwhile NRSA (Nath et.al., 1991) which proved that SST\r\ndata can be utilized for the preparation of PFZ advisories.\r\nChlorophyll-a data and NOAA-AVHRR derived SST data\r\nwere integrated and utilized for fishery resources exploration\r\n(Solanki et.al., 2001 a and b). Exclusive validations were\r\nalso conducted during late 1990s and early 2000 jointly by\r\nSpace Application Centre (SAC), Fishery Survey of\r\nIndia (FSI) and Central Marine Fisheries Research Institute\r\n(CMFRI) around the Indian coast.\r\nIn India, the efforts of oceanographers, Remote Sensing\r\nspecialists and Fishery Scientists, resulted in a unique\r\nservice called Potential Fishing Zone (PFZ) advisory. The\r\nPFZ forecast is issued thrice a week by the Indian National\r\nCentre for Ocean Information Services (INCOIS), Hyderabad\r\nfunctioning under the Ministry of Earth Sciences, Govt. of\r\nIndia except during the fishing ban period and on cloudy\r\ndays to around 200 active nodes spread around the entire\r\ncoast line by FAX/Telephone messages and through\r\nElectronic Digital Display Boards installed at selected fish\r\nlanding centres.The validity of the individual forecast is\r\nfor a maximum of 3 days. This is the only short term marine\r\nfishery forecast available in the country for the benefit of\r\nsmall mechanized/ motorized sector fisherfolk working\r\nonboard a total of around 1,00,000 fishing vessels. The\r\neffort is part of the Common Minimum Programme (CMP),\r\nlead by the Govt. of India. The entire Indian coast is divided\r\ninto 12 sectors inorder to generate the PFZ maps viz,\r\nGujarat, Maharashtra, Karnataka and Goa, Kerala, South\r\nTamil Nadu, North Tamil nadu, South AP, North AP, Orissa\r\nand West Bangal, Lakshdweep islands, Andaman and\r\nNicobar Islands. The PFZ maps certain information on major\r\nlanding centres in each sector, bathymetry, latitude and\r\nlongitude in addition to identified features of individual PFZ\r\nviz.latitude, longitude, depth, direction and distances from\r\neach landing centre. These integrated PFZ advisories are\r\nprepared in English, Hindi and other local languages. The\r\ntotal number of users as on today is approximately around\r\n30,000 which is about 30% of boat owners.\r\nPillai and Nair 49\r\nContinuous validation of PFZ forecasts is being\r\nundertaken along the entire Indian coast. Concurrent and\r\nquantitative feedback on the total fish catch (species wise)is\r\nobtained within and outside notified areas by undertaking\r\nsimultaneous controlled experiments engaging more or less\r\nidentical commercial fishing vessels employing more or less\r\nidentical fishing gear.\r\nMATERIAL AND METHODS\r\nDuring the period under report (January, 2006-March,\r\n2010) Potential Fishing Zone advisories released by INCOIS\r\nthrice a week during periods when there is less cloud cover\r\n(mainly between September and May) were disseminated\r\nto active fishermen groups along Kerala coast between\r\nKollam in the south and Kannur in the north depending on\r\nthe exact location of PFZ by personal contact, fax/\r\ntelephonic messages and information transferred through\r\nElectronic Digital Display Boards installed at five major fish\r\nlanding centres viz Beypore, Munambam, Vypeen, Srayikkad\r\nand Neendakara. The feed back data was gathered in the\r\nprescribed format immediately on arrival of the vessel at\r\nthe landing centre on completion of fishing activity.\r\nA total of 165 PFZ advisories released by INCOIS were\r\nvalidated between January, 2006 and March, 2010 along\r\nKerala Coast. Fishing data was gathered from a total of 450\r\nRing seiners, 300 Gill netters and 50 Bottom Trawlers. A\r\ntotal of 1240 Datasets (generated by these vessels) were\r\nutilized in the present study.\r\nThe quality (species –wise identification) as well as\r\nquantity (approximate) of fish catch is also reconfirmed by\r\nthe enumerator on the spot (out at sea) when the enumerator\r\nwho is invariably drawn from the fishermen community\r\nvisits the area of fishing activity onboard a hired vessel or\r\nat the landing centre. The consolidation of the data\r\ngathered from different landing centres is undertaken every\r\nmonth and average CPUE for different types of operations\r\ncalculated.\r\nNecessary steps were always taken to ensure that the\r\ninformation transferred through individual advisory reaches\r\nactive fishermen groups at the location within the minimum\r\npossible time. With the replacement of five numbers of old\r\nElectronic Digital Display Boards, with new ones and with\r\nthe addition of another 5 new Electronic Digital Display\r\nBoards the quickness of forecast transmission is likely to\r\nimprove further along the Kerala coast.\r\nPFZ advisories brought out by INCOIS during the\r\nperiod under report were disseminated and validated through\r\nselected number of artisanal/motorized/ small mechanized\r\nsector fishing vessels based at Neendakara, Sakthikulangara,\r\nThottappally, Ambalapuzha, Puarakkad, Alappuzha,\r\nSherthala, Manakkodam, FortKochi, Vypeen, Munambam,\r\nAzhikkode, Nattika, Ponnani, Beypore, Puthiappa, Koylandi,\r\nBadagara, Mahe, Thalassery and Kannur landing centres\r\ndepending on the location of individual PFZ.\r\nA total of 55 controlled experiments were conducted\r\nby hiring more or less identical commercial fishing vessels\r\n(ring seiners) to obtain concurrent and quantitative feedback\r\non the total fish catch (species wise) within and outside\r\nnotified areas (PFZ). A representative drawn from the local\r\nfishermen community is also sent on board the hired vessel\r\nto obtain correct information pertaining to fishing activity.\r\nThe period from June to October (cloudy months) was\r\nalso utilized for educating the fishermen groups on the\r\nusefulness of the technology by way of organizing/\r\nparticipating in awareness campaigns arranged among active\r\nfishermen groups at major fishing harbours/landing centers.\r\nCollection of simultaneous hydrographic data from the\r\narea where more or less identical hired fishing vessels were\r\noperated within and outside notified area, was undertaken\r\nonboard a 62’OAL Purse seiner since January, 2009 for\r\nattempting possible correlation with availability/ abundance\r\nof different species in space and time.\r\nRESULTS AND DISCUSSION\r\nPFZ advisories generated from satellite retrieved SST\r\nand Chlorophyll were found to be good indicators of the\r\navailability/abundance of pelagic fishes such as sardines,\r\nmackerel, anchovies, tunas and carangids. These advisories\r\nare found beneficial to artisanal, motorized and small\r\nmechanized sector fishermen engaged in pelagic fishing\r\nactivities such as ring seining, purse seining, gill netting\r\netc. for locating concentrations of these highly migratory\r\npelagic species, there by reducing the searching time which\r\ninturn resulted in the saving of valuable fuel oil and also\r\nhuman effort. In view of the likely concentration of pelagic\r\nshoals in thermal boundaries and areas of phyto/zoo\r\nplankton abundance, the fishing undertaken in Potential\r\nFishing Zones provide comparatively higher catch per unit\r\neffort.\r\nOut of total of 55 controlled experiments conducted\r\nengaging more or less same size/BHP Ring seiners,\r\nemploying more or less identical fishing gear, 13 yeilded\r\nOil sardine (Sardinella longiceps), 15 Mackerel (Rastrelliger\r\nkanagurta), 13 Carangids, 3 yellow fin Tuna (Thunnus\r\nalbacares-Young ones locally called “Kera”, 3 Coastal Tuna,\r\n2 Anchovies (Stolephorus spp) one each Cuttle fish (Sepia\r\npharaonis) and Poovalan shrimp (Metapenaeus dobsoni).\r\nAverage catch per unit effort within and outside PFZ\r\nhas been worked out for individual species and presented\r\nin Table 1, Fig. 1.','V.N. Pillai and Preetha G. Nair (2010).Potential fishing zone (PFZ) advisories-Are they beneficial to the coastal fisherfolk? A case study along Kerala coast, South India. Biological Forum — An International Journal, 2(2): 46-55. '),(4716,'128','Study of sodium fluoride toxicity on hematological parameter of\r\nRattus norvegicus','N.A. Kamble and V.V. Velhal','12 KAMBLE VELHEL.pdf','',1,'Sodium fluoride induced hematological parameters were measured in female Wister rat Rattus\r\nnorvegicus. 100ppm, 200ppm, and 300ppm concentration of dose were induced orally for 1month and 2month of\r\nexposure period. After completion of exposure period blood samples were analyzed for hemoglobin, RBC and\r\nWBC count and also for Electrophoratic separations. Hb and WBC count was found to be decreased as per\r\nincrease in concentration and exposure period. While initially increased WBC fall down as per increase in\r\nconcentration and exposure period indicating Sodium fluoride as a toxicant material.','Rattus norvegicus, Sodium fluoride, hematological parameter.','Sodium fluoride induced hematological parameters were measured in female Wister rat Rattus\r\nnorvegicus. 100ppm, 200ppm, and 300ppm concentration of dose were induced orally for 1month and 2month of\r\nexposure period. After completion of exposure period blood samples were analyzed for hemoglobin, RBC and\r\nWBC count and also for Electrophoratic separations. Hb and WBC count was found to be decreased as per\r\nincrease in concentration and exposure period. While initially increased WBC fall down as per increase in\r\nconcentration and exposure period indicating Sodium fluoride as a toxicant material.','Ground water contamination by fluoride has been\r\nreported in India. Fluoride is found in earth crust as\r\nfluorspar (CaF2), cryolite (NaAlF6) and fluoroapatite [Ca10F2\r\n(PO4)6]. Due to erosion and leaching of soil, fluorides get\r\nmixed with water. In the year 2004-05 the physico-chemical\r\nground water analysis of village of Sanganeer Tehsil, Jaipur\r\nDistrict was carried out by Sharma et.al., and reported that\r\nwater contain very high fluoride concentration which is\r\nresponsible for various health problem (Sharma et.al., 2007).\r\nKurttio et.al., (1999) noted that in rural area houses are\r\ngenerally not connected to the municipal drinking water\r\nsupply instead of which only well water used for drinking\r\npurpose, with high fluoride contamination in it resulting in\r\nthe formation of health hazards to the people living in the\r\narea.\r\nRamaraju et.al., (2000) found that fluoride when\r\nconsumed in excess (>1.5mg/l ) can causes several health\r\nproblem such as skeletal and non skeletal fluorosis, dental\r\nfluorosis and or sometime combination of above. According\r\nto RGNGWM, (1994) fluoride is also responsible to induced\r\nageing and no amount of medicines can cure or improve\r\nthese damages in the body. Shen et.al., (2004) reported that\r\nfluorosis has effect on phospholipids and fatty acids\r\ncomposition in brain cells. Cytotoxic effect of fluoride on\r\nrat pancreas showed acute disintegration of acini as of\r\nlobules (Shashi et.al., 2009). High fluoride concentration\r\ninhibits protein synthesis and cell cycle progression\r\n(Holland et.al.,1979). Recently Kamble and Velhal (2010),\r\nshowed histologically disturbed uterine cells and its\r\nmusculature in which they found squeezed endometrial cells,\r\naltered blood vessels and accumulation of mucosal cells\r\ndue to fluoride induction as per increased concentration\r\nand exposure period in Rattus norvegicus.\r\nThe literature regarding excess fluoride in the body\r\nresulting to health hazards is scanty. By taking review of\r\ninformation in this we have decided to investigate the\r\nhematological parameters and its alteration by the induction\r\nof excess fluoride in the body of Rattus norvegicus.\r\nMATERIAL AND METHODS\r\nHealthy matured female Wistar rat (Rattus norvegicus)\r\nweighing average about 180-220gm were used for\r\nexperiments. Animals were reared in departmental animal\r\nhouse (CPC SEA 233) of Department of Zoology, Shivaji\r\nUniversity, Kolhapur. Animals were feed on standard diet\r\nfrom Pranav Agro industries, Kolhapur, Maharashtra, India.\r\nFor the toxicological analysis water miscible Sodium fluoride\r\n(NaF) was used with its mol. wt. 41.99 which was purchased\r\nfrom Loba Chemicals Pvt. Ltd., Kolhapur, Maharashtra, India.\r\nIn the toxicological study experimental groups of animals\r\nwere divided into three groups as per their doses 100ppm,\r\n200ppm and 300ppm respectively. The experimental groups\r\nwere exposed for the period of 1 month and 2 months. As\r\nexperiments were carried out in summer, it was found that\r\nwater consumption by experimental animals was high so as\r\nto monitor the experiment. Temperature was maintained at\r\n27°C ± 2°C. Daily water consumption is 5 ± 2 ml/day/animal.\r\nAt the end of exposure period experiment animals were\r\ncompared with normal group of animals. In which group I\r\ni.e. normal receives only tap water. Group II i.e. experimental\r\nanimals were exposed to 100ppm, 200ppm and 300ppm of\r\nSodium fluoride dose which was induced orally for 1 and 2\r\nmonths of period. After completion of exposure period\r\nanimals were sacrificed and blood was collected by cardiac\r\npuncture under anesthesia using 21gauze (21G) BD falcon\r\n1ml syringe in EDTA coated serum tube. Blood was further\r\nused for RBC count, WBC count, Hb estimation and\r\nElectrophoresis. RBC and WBC count was taken on\r\nNeubaurs chamber. Hemoglobin estimation was estimated\r\nby using Sahalis Haematometer tube. Electrophoratic\r\nseparation was done by using blood serum from both\r\nexperimental and normal group of rat Rattus norvegicus.\r\nStudy of sodium fluoride toxicity on hematological parameter of\r\nRattus norvegicus\r\nN.A. Kamble and V.V. Velhal\r\nDeptt. of Zoology, Shivaji University, Kolhapur, (M.S.) India\r\nABSTRACT : Sodium fluoride induced hematological parameters were measured in female Wister rat Rattus\r\nnorvegicus. 100ppm, 200ppm, and 300ppm concentration of dose were induced orally for 1month and 2month of\r\nexposure period. After completion of exposure period blood samples were analyzed for hemoglobin, RBC and\r\nWBC count and also for Electrophoratic separations. Hb and WBC count was found to be decreased as per\r\nincrease in concentration and exposure period. While initially increased WBC fall down as per increase in\r\nconcentration and exposure period indicating Sodium fluoride as a toxicant material.\r\nKeywords : Rattus norvegicus, Sodium fluoride, hematological parameter.\r\nISSN : 0975-1130\r\nBiological Forum — An International Journal, 2(2): 56-58(2010)\r\nKamble and Velhal 57\r\nRESULT AND DISCUSSIONS\r\nCirculatory system in any animal plays important role.\r\nThe cellular constituents, plasma protein and chemical\r\nomposition of blood plays vital role in the different\r\nmetabolic activities. Any toxicants when entered in the body\r\nget circulated throughout the body by the circulatory\r\nsystem. When the concentration of these toxicant increases\r\nin the body it will cause qualitative and quantitative\r\nabnormalities in the exposed animals\r\nIn the trace amount, Sodium fluoride is essential for\r\nthe body for different physiological process. If the\r\nconcentration of Sodium fluoride increases it will cause\r\ndeformities and destructions in the different systems in\r\nbody.\r\nIn our experiment we found that when rat Rattus\r\nnorvegicus was exposed to different concentration of\r\nSodium fluoride (100ppm, 200pm and 300ppm) for different\r\ntime period (one and two months) the circulatory system\r\nspecifically blood corpuscles and the plasma protein found\r\nto be disturbed. Sodium fluoride in the dose 100ppm, 200pm\r\nand 300ppm caused time dependent and dose dependent\r\ntransient effect on RBC, WBC count and Hb, which\r\nindicates immunological suppression. As dose and exposure\r\nperiod increases total RBC count and percent hemoglobin\r\nwere found decreases. On the other hand initially total WBC\r\ncount was found increased as compared to normal value\r\nafter 1 month of exposure. Then after as the exposure period\r\nand concentration of Sodium fluoride increases total WBC\r\ncount was found reduced up to the end of exposure period.\r\nIn Electrophoratic separation of blood serum, it was found\r\nthat the bands appeared in the serum protein of experimental\r\nanimals was disturbed and scattered as per the doses and\r\nperiod of Sodium fluoride intoxication to the animals.\r\n(Table 1).','N.A. Kamble and V.V. Velhal (2010). Study of sodium fluoride toxicity on hematological parameter of Rattus norvegicus. Biological Forum — An International Journal, 2(2): 56-58. '),(4717,'128','Diversity of insects with special reference to order hymenoptera in\r\nAmba reserved forest of Kolhapur district,\r\nWestern ghats, Maharashtra, India','S.R. Aland, A.B. Mamlayya, S.M. Gaikwad,* D.L. Bharmal** and G.P. Bhawane','13 DR GP BHAWANE.pdf','',1,'During the years 2007-2009 emphasis was made to study diversity of insects with special reference\r\nto order Hymenoptera in Amba Reserved Forest of Kolhapur District, Maharashtra. The region selected for study\r\nis part of Western Ghats of Maharashtra State which is one of the Biodiversity hot spots of the world. The study\r\nrevealed 82 species distributed over 47 genera and belonging to 17 families. The families Formicidae and\r\nEumenidae were dominant with 39 and 11 species respectively. The registered Shannon-Weiner and Simpson\r\ndiversity indices were 1.97 and 0.74 respectively indicating diversity and abundance of hymneopterans in Amba\r\nReserved Forest.','Diversity, Hymenoptera, Amba Reserved Forest, Western Ghats, Maharashtra','During the years 2007-2009 emphasis was made to study diversity of insects with special reference\r\nto order Hymenoptera in Amba Reserved Forest of Kolhapur District, Maharashtra. The region selected for study\r\nis part of Western Ghats of Maharashtra State which is one of the Biodiversity hot spots of the world. The study\r\nrevealed 82 species distributed over 47 genera and belonging to 17 families. The families Formicidae and\r\nEumenidae were dominant with 39 and 11 species respectively. The registered Shannon-Weiner and Simpson\r\ndiversity indices were 1.97 and 0.74 respectively indicating diversity and abundance of hymneopterans in Amba\r\nReserved Forest.','Modest estimate indicate that insects represents 56%\r\nof the 1.7 million animal species described (Heywood, 1995),\r\nbut the wordl total is estimated at 3.6 to 10 million (Gaston\r\nand Husdon, 1994; Novotny et al., 2002; Odegaard, 2006).\r\nIf these figures are considered and the estimation of non\r\ninsect is added then the Class Insecta will constitute the\r\ndominant group of animal kingdom representing 80-92% of\r\nthe entire animal Kingdom. Insects play vital functional\r\nrole in terrestrial ecosystems as herbivores, pollinators,\r\ndecomposers, predators and parasites (Weisser and Seiman,\r\n2004. According to Gillot (1982) the order Hymenoptera\r\nincludes more than 100,000 described species which\r\ncontains some of the most advanced and highly specialized\r\ninsects.\r\nBiodiversity shows various patterns in space and time\r\ndue to the difference in climatic conditions, interaction\r\nbetween species, geography, local history and many other\r\nfactors. The patterns of biodiversity in space consist of a\r\nrea, latitude and altitude etc while those in times consist\r\nof season, life history and others. Efficient examples of\r\norganisms whose diversity varies seasonally are birds and\r\ninsects. Insects have very different life history and thus, if\r\nan area is decided for studying their biodiversity, the time\r\nwhen sampling is made may strictly affect the diversity\r\nestimates. The most commonly used index of biodiversity\r\nis the number of species i.e. species diversity (Magurran,\r\n1988).\r\nAnimals, particularly insects are considered to pollinate\r\nnearly 70% of crop plants worldwide and over 98% of trees\r\nin lowland tropical rain forest (Bawa, 1990; Klein et al.,\r\n2006). The loss of these pollination services would have\r\nadverse effect on food production and no doubt for the\r\nmaintenance of biodiversity (Allan Wardell et al., Klein et\r\nal., 2006). According to Devy and Davidar (2003) in medium\r\nelevation wet evergreen forest of the Western Ghats, apid\r\nbees contributed to the pollination of 18% of 86 species of\r\ntrees and 22% of the understorey shrubs.\r\nAccording to Allan et al., (1973) the presence of insects\r\nat a particular habitat depends on a wide range of factors\r\nof which the availability of food and climatic conditions\r\nsuitable for egg laying and suitable flowers for feeding of\r\nadults govern the distribution of insects.\r\nThe quick and widespread loss of bioligical diversity\r\nis a matter of considerable concern. The destruction of\r\ntropical rain forests is a major factor responsible for the\r\nhigh rates of species extinction in recent years (Myers,\r\n1998). Globally, tropical rain forests are disappearing at a\r\nrate of 12 million hectares a year (Cyranoski. 2007).\r\nTherefore, developing policies to manage tropical rain\r\nforests to prevent biodiversity loss is urgently needed.\r\nNevertheless, mechanisms and processes causing diversity\r\nloss with reference to forest utilization are still almost\r\nunknown, although such knowledge is necessary for\r\ndeveloping sustainable forest management policies (Szara\r\nand Johnson, 1996). The Western Ghats, known as one of\r\nthe 25 biodiverstiy ‘hotspot’ of the world and occupies a\r\ncritical position in the global biodiverstiy scene (Myers et\r\nal., 2000).\r\nSeveral estimates have been made from time to time on\r\nisect fauna. According to an estimate by Menon (1965),\r\nthere could be about 50,000 insect species in India. As\r\npercent estimate by Varshney (1997) 59,353 species of\r\nDiversity of insects with special reference to order hymenoptera in\r\nAmba reserved forest of Kolhapur district,\r\nWestern ghats, Maharashtra, India\r\nS.R. Aland, A.B. Mamlayya, S.M. Gaikwad,* D.L. Bharmal** and G.P. Bhawane\r\nDepartment of Zoology, Shivaji University, Kolhapur (MS)\r\n* Department of Zoololgy, Bhogawati Mahavidyalaya, Kurukali, Kolhapur (MS)\r\n** Department of Zoology, Sri Pancham Khemraj Mahavidyalaya, Sawantwadi, Sindhudurga (MS)\r\nABSTRACT : During the years 2007-2009 emphasis was made to study diversity of insects with special reference\r\nto order Hymenoptera in Amba Reserved Forest of Kolhapur District, Maharashtra. The region selected for study\r\nis part of Western Ghats of Maharashtra State which is one of the Biodiversity hot spots of the world. The study\r\nrevealed 82 species distributed over 47 genera and belonging to 17 families. The families Formicidae and\r\nEumenidae were dominant with 39 and 11 species respectively. The registered Shannon-Weiner and Simpson\r\ndiversity indices were 1.97 and 0.74 respectively indicating diversity and abundance of hymneopterans in Amba\r\nReserved Forest.\r\nKeywords : Diversity, Hymenoptera, Amba Reserved Forest, Western Ghats, Maharashtra\r\nBBiioollooggiiccaal lF Foorurmum —– AAnn IInnteternrnaatitoinoanla Jl oJuorunranl,a2l,(21)(:1 5):9-1624(-21071(02)009) ISSN : 0975-1130\r\n60 Aland, Mamlayya, Gaikwad, Bharmal, and Bhawane\r\ninsects belonging to 619 families constituting nearly 6.83%\r\nof the world insect fauna have been reported from India.\r\nA series of revisionary studies have been subsequently\r\nbeen carried out from different geographical regions, no\r\nexhaustive survey has so far been carried out specifically\r\nfrom the various forests. This is particularly true with regard\r\nto Western Ghats region which is noted for its richeness in\r\nbiodiversity (Mathew and Rahamathulla, 1995). Incidentally,\r\nthe region selected for present investigatioin lies in Western\r\nGhats of Maharashtra State, India.\r\nIn the ’Fauna of British Indai’ series Bingham (1903)\r\nhas given good coverage of various hymenopterans. Many\r\nworkers have made valuable contribution to our knowledge\r\nof Hymenopteran groups (Abdurahiman and Joseph, 1967\r\na & b, 1975 a ; Joseph et al., 1973 a & b, 1979; Narendran,\r\n1986, 1992; Narendran and Sureshan, 1989; Narendran and\r\nSheela, 1995; Sudheendrakumar, 1990, 19993, 1994;\r\nAnderson, 1991 and Wiebes, 1980; Hayat et al; 2003). As\r\nfar as insect fauna with special reference to order\r\nHymenoptera of the study region is concerned, it si\r\nattempted of the first time.\r\nMATERIAL AND METHODS\r\nThe present study was carried out in Amba Reserved\r\nForest (15° 43’ to 17° 10’ north and longitude 73°40’ to\r\n74°42’ east) of Kilhapur District of Maharashtra State in\r\nthe years of 2007-2009. Monthly field visits were organized\r\nso as to surveys and collection. The Hymenopterans were\r\ncollected with the help of sweep net method. Some\r\nopportunistic collections were also made. The ants were\r\ncollected with the help of pit fall trap. All specimens were\r\nkilled in insect killing bottle, brought to the laboratory in\r\nthe Department of Zoology, Shivaji University, Kolhapur\r\nmaharashtra, India and preserved with dry as well as wet\r\npreservation methods, Identification was done with available\r\nstandard literature (Bingham, 1903; 1975a; 1975b; Morley,\r\n1913; Holldobles and Wilson, 1990; Bolton, 1994).\r\nStudy Region\r\nKolhapur District\r\nKolhapur District (15° 43’ to 17° 17’ North latitude\r\nand 73o 40’ to 74o 42’ East longitude at 500 m MSL) is\r\npart of South Maharashtra. The geographical area is\r\n7865 km2. Total forest coverage of the District is about\r\n1672 km2. Out of which563 km2 is reserved forest and\r\n417 km2 is protected forest. The forest area is about 22% of\r\nthe total geographical area of the District.\r\nAmba Reserved Forest\r\nAmba Reserved Forest (15°43’ to 17°10’ north and\r\nlongitude 73°40’ to 74°42’ east and 691.3 meters above\r\nMean Sea Level) is situated between North-West directions\r\nof Kolhapur District. It is tropical semi evergreen forest of\r\nWestern Ghats. The geogrphical area is 318.16 ha. The\r\naverage annual rainfall is 6000 mm. Temperature of this\r\nregion during Summer, Winter and Rainy Season ranges\r\nfrom 25-38°C, 10-30°C and 15-30°C respectively, Red brown\r\nsoil is observed in the study region.\r\nData Analysis\r\nFor calculating the diversity indices Shannon-Weiner\r\nIndex (Shannon and Weaver, 1949) and Simpson Index\r\n(Simpson, 1949) formulae were used.\r\n1. Shannon-Weiner Index :\r\nH = –\r\n1\r\nln\r\n= åS\r\ni i\r\ni\r\np p\r\nWhere, Pi is the proportion of the ‘ith’ species in the\r\ncommunity, ‘S’ is the total number of species,‘In’ is the log\r\nwith base ‘e’ (Pielou, 1975).\r\n2. Simpson Index :\r\nD = ( ) 1\r\n( 1)\r\n1\r\nS\r\ni i\r\ni\r\nn n\r\n= N N\r\n-\r\n- å\r\nWhere, n is total number of organisms of a particular\r\nspecies,\r\nN is the total number of organisms of all species\r\nRESULTS AND DISCUSSION\r\nIn all, 82 species distributed over 47 genera belonging\r\nto 17 families were reported in Amba Reserved Forest in\r\nthe years 2007-2009. The family Formicidae was dominant\r\nwith 39 species followed by family Eumenidae with 11\r\nspecies. The families Vespidae, Xylocopidae and Apidae\r\ncontained 4 species respectively. Whereas families namely\r\nIchneumonidae, Braconidae and Bethylidae contained 3\r\nspecies respectively. The family Evaniidae represented by\r\n2 species and remaining families’ viz. Platygasteridae,\r\nAgaontidae, Ghalcididae, Eulophidae, Trichogramatidae,\r\nPteromalidae, Scolidae and Megachilidae contained 1\r\nspecies respectively. The registered Shannon-Weiner and\r\nSimpson Diversity Indices values were 1.97 and 0.74\r\nrespectively revealed diversity and abundance of\r\nhymenopteran insects in the study region.\r\nGadagkar et al., (1993) have made addition to the\r\nknowledge of ant species richness and diversity in some\r\nselected localities in Western Ghats of India and reported\r\n140 species of ants 32 gemera amd 6 subfamilies. Bharati\r\n(2008) studied altitudinal diversity of ants in Himalayan\r\nregions and recorded 199 species. Sabu et al., (2008) made\r\nefforts on diversity of forest litter-inhabiting ants along\r\nelevations in the Wayanad region of the Western Ghats\r\nand reported 29 ant species belonging to 18 genera under\r\n6 subfamilies. Pai et al., (2009) reported 38 species of ants\r\nin Chorao Island, Goa, India. Whereas in the present study\r\nin all 39 species of ants were encountered.\r\nWolda and Roubik (1986) analyzed nocturnal bee\r\nAland, Mamlayya, Gaikwad, Bharmal, and Bhawane 61\r\nabundance and seasonal bee activity in a Panamaniam\r\nForest and recorded 50 species from 17 genera and 5\r\nfamilies. Thomas et al., (2009) made an attempt on social\r\nbees and food plant association in the Nilgiri Biosphere\r\nreserve, India and recorded 4 species of bees. Banaszak\r\n(2010) reported 133 bee species in various habitats of Wolin\r\nNational Park. In the present study 9 species of bees were\r\nenlisted.\r\nElpino-Campos et al., (2007) encountered 29 species of\r\nsocial wasps species distributed in 10 genera. In the present\r\nstudy a total of 16 species of wasps were enlisted. Ghanhari\r\net al., (2010) reported 11 species of Ichneumonidae from\r\nthe forests of Northern Iran. In the present study 3 species\r\nof Ichneumonids were reported. Rashitsyn (2003) studied\r\ndiversity of hymenoptera and reported one hundred eight\r\nspecies at Orapa, Botswana whereas in the present study\r\nin all eighty-two species of Hymenopterans were recorded.','S.R. Aland, A.B. Mamlayya, S.M. Gaikwad,* D.L. Bharmal** and G.P. Bhawane (2010).Diversity of insects with special reference to order hymenoptera in Amba reserved forest of Kolhapur district, Western ghats, Maharashtra, India. BBiioollooggiiccaal lF Foorurmum —– AAnn IInnteternrnaatitoinoanla Jl oJuorunranl,a2l,(21)(:1 5):9-1624'),(4718,'128','Germination, Survival and Growth rate (Shoot length, root length and dry\r\nweight) of Lens culinaris Medik. the masoor, induced by biofertilizers\r\ntreatment','Monika Kumari, Dheeraj Vasu, Anita Sharma and Zia-Ul-Hasan','14 MONIKA @ ANITA SHARMA A.pdf','',1,'An experiment was conducted during 2007 and 2008 winter seasons at Botany department of Saifia\r\nscience college Bhopal. To study the effect of two biofertilizers Azotobacter, PSB (Phosphate solubilizing bacteria)\r\nand their combination with different doses on growth rate, germination and survival percentage of Lens culinaris.\r\nInoculation of both biofertilizers alone and in combination shows considerable improvement in the growth rate,\r\ngermination and survival percentage as compared to control. Experiment prove that the application of biofertilizers\r\nperform significant improvement in growth rate, germination and survival percentage. This experiment shows\r\nthat with increase in concentration of biofertilizer, growth rate, germination and survival percentage of Lens\r\nculinaris increased. Maximum increase in the growth parameter was with combined treatment of Azotobacter +\r\nPSB inoculated crop and then the crop treated with Azotobacter showed somewhat less growth parameters and the\r\nleast growth parameters in these three inoculations with PSB treatment.','Azotobacter, PSB, Germination, Survival, Shoot length, root length and dry weight','An experiment was conducted during 2007 and 2008 winter seasons at Botany department of Saifia\r\nscience college Bhopal. To study the effect of two biofertilizers Azotobacter, PSB (Phosphate solubilizing bacteria)\r\nand their combination with different doses on growth rate, germination and survival percentage of Lens culinaris.\r\nInoculation of both biofertilizers alone and in combination shows considerable improvement in the growth rate,\r\ngermination and survival percentage as compared to control. Experiment prove that the application of biofertilizers\r\nperform significant improvement in growth rate, germination and survival percentage. This experiment shows\r\nthat with increase in concentration of biofertilizer, growth rate, germination and survival percentage of Lens\r\nculinaris increased. Maximum increase in the growth parameter was with combined treatment of Azotobacter +\r\nPSB inoculated crop and then the crop treated with Azotobacter showed somewhat less growth parameters and the\r\nleast growth parameters in these three inoculations with PSB treatment.','In India lentil occupies an area of 1.40 m/ha and\r\nproduced 1.03 m tones of grains with an average productivity\r\nof 741 kg/ha. (Deol et al., 2005) cultivated lentil belong to\r\ntwo broad group the small seeded and large seeded. The\r\nlarge seeded varieties of lentil are comparatively found to\r\nbe more mutable than the small seeded varieties (Solanki\r\nand Sharma, 2002). Lentil belongs to the family fabaceae.\r\nLentil is an important pulse crop of Indian subcontinent.\r\nThe diploid chromosome number is 2n = 2x =14 Lentil (Lens\r\nculinaris Medik.) contains 28.6% proteins, 3.1%ash, 4.6%\r\ncrude fibres, 44.3% starch, 36.1% amylase, 63.1% total\r\ncarbohydrates and 420 cal. 100/gm gross energy. Cooking\r\nquality generally depends on the varieties fertility status of\r\nthe soil and seed maturity of the crop seed (Shah et al.,\r\n2000).This crop is valued as a high protein source residues\r\nare used for animal feedings (Mishra et al., 2001).\r\nSoil microorganisms are involved in a range of processes\r\nthat effects phosphate transformation and thus influence\r\nthe subsequent availability of phosphate to plant roots\r\n(Richardson, 2001). Phosphorous is abundant in soil in both\r\norganic and inorganic forms it is frequently major or a prime\r\nlimiting factor for plant growth (Khan et al., 2007).\r\nBiofertilizers are gaining importance as they are ecofriendly,\r\nnon-hazardous and non-toxic (Sharma et al., 2007).\r\nBiofertilizers are useful to reduce the pollution rate of soil\r\nand water (El-Assiouty and Abo-Sedera, 2005). Bacteria that\r\naggressively colonizes in plant roots is plant growth\r\npromoting Rhizobacteria (PGPR) (Antoun, 2003; Antoun and\r\nKloepper, 2001). To overcome the adverse effects of chemical\r\nfertilizers the best available option lies in the complimentary\r\nuse of biofertilizers as a mean of increasing yield by\r\nbiological nitrogen fixation and other microbial activities\r\n(Mubassara et al., 2008). Nowadays multistrain biofertilizers\r\nGermination, Survival and Growth rate (Shoot length, root length and dry\r\nweight) of Lens culinaris Medik. the masoor, induced by biofertilizers\r\ntreatment\r\nMonika Kumari, Dheeraj Vasu, Anita Sharma and Zia-Ul-Hasan\r\nDepartment of Botany, Saifia Science College Bhopal (M.P.)\r\nABSTRACT : An experiment was conducted during 2007 and 2008 winter seasons at Botany department of Saifia\r\nscience college Bhopal. To study the effect of two biofertilizers Azotobacter, PSB (Phosphate solubilizing bacteria)\r\nand their combination with different doses on growth rate, germination and survival percentage of Lens culinaris.\r\nInoculation of both biofertilizers alone and in combination shows considerable improvement in the growth rate,\r\ngermination and survival percentage as compared to control. Experiment prove that the application of biofertilizers\r\nperform significant improvement in growth rate, germination and survival percentage. This experiment shows\r\nthat with increase in concentration of biofertilizer, growth rate, germination and survival percentage of Lens\r\nculinaris increased. Maximum increase in the growth parameter was with combined treatment of Azotobacter +\r\nPSB inoculated crop and then the crop treated with Azotobacter showed somewhat less growth parameters and the\r\nleast growth parameters in these three inoculations with PSB treatment.\r\nKeywords : Azotobacter, PSB, Germination, Survival, Shoot length, root length and dry weight\r\nBBiioollooggiiccaal lF Foorurmum —– AAnn IInnteternrnaatitoinoanla Jl oJuorunranl,a2l,(21)(:1 6):5-1627(-21071(02)009) ISSN : 0975-1130\r\ni.e. gathered groups of soil microorganisms, having a definite\r\nbeneficial well role in supporting plant growth in developing\r\nsustainable soil fertility and in bio-controlling soil born\r\ndiseases (Mekki and Ahmad, 2005). Biofertilizers include\r\nmainly the nitrogen fixing, phosphate solubilizing and plant\r\ngrowth promoting microorganisms (Geol et al., 1999; Shehata\r\nand El-Khawas, 2003). Microbiological fertilizers are an\r\nimportant part of environment friendly sustainable\r\nagricultural practices (Ramazan et al.,1999).\r\nMATERIAL AND METHODS\r\nThis work was conducted in Saifia science college,\r\nBhopal during two successive winter seasons (2007-08 and\r\n2008-09). In these studies the effect of biofertilizers,\r\nAzotobacter, Phosphate solubilizing bacteria (PSB) and their\r\ncombination was observed on the germination percentage,\r\nsurvival percentage and growth rate (shoot length, root\r\nlength and dry weight) of Lens culinaris variety JL-3.\r\nLens culinaris seeds of known varieties JL-3 of central\r\nIndia procured from Seed Corporation of India, New Market\r\nBhopal. Five hundred dry healthy seeds with average\r\nmoisture content of each variety selected from macrosperma\r\nLentil.\r\nBio-fertilizers : In this study Biofertilizers Azotobacter,\r\nPSB were took from Agro Industries in Inderpuri, Bhopal\r\n(M.P.) about 10 gm, 20 gm and 30 gm of Azotobacter mixed\r\nwith 2 kg soil were used in these three treatment, 10 gm, 20\r\ngm and 30 gm of PSB mixed with 2 kg soil were used in\r\nnext three treatments and then 10 gm + 10 gm, 20 gm +\r\n20 gm, 30 gm + 30 gm of Azotobacter + PSB mixed with\r\n2 kg soil were used in the next three treatment. One control\r\nwill be grown to seen the germination percentage, survival\r\npercentage and growth rate (shoot length, root length and\r\ndry weight) of Lens culinaris variety JL-3.\r\n66 Kumari, Vasu, Sharma and Hasan\r\nTreatment of soil with Biofertilizers Azotobacter, PSB\r\nand their combination. Soil is treated with Biofertilizers\r\nAzotobacter, PSB and their combination in two years 100\r\nseeds are sown in the treated soil with 10, 20 and 30gm.\r\nAzotobacter and PSB 100 seeds are also sown in the treated\r\nsoil with 10 gm + 10 gm 20 gm + 20 gm, 30 gm + 30 gm of\r\nAzotobacter + PSB.\r\nSeeds will be sown in the field with treated soil to study\r\nthe germination percentage, survival percentage and growth\r\nrate (shoot length, root length and dry weight) of Lens\r\nculinaris variety JL-3 in October 2007 and seed obtain from\r\ntreated generation to next year in October 2008 and then\r\nobserved the germination percentage, survival percentage\r\nand growth rate of these plants.\r\nRESULTS AND DISCUSSION\r\nResults in the Table-1 showed that the germination\r\npercentage of Lens culinaris variety JL-3 with the inoculation\r\nof the combination of the two biofertilizers was more than\r\nthe Azotobacter and PSB inoculation separately. With the\r\ninoculation of 10 gm Azotobacter germination percentage\r\nwas observed 88 percent, inoculation with 20 gm Azotobacter\r\ngermination percentage was observed 92 percent with\r\ninoculation of 30 gm Azotobacter germination percentage\r\nwas observed 97 percent.\r\nInoculation with PSB showed germination less than\r\nAzotobacter with the inoculation of 10gm. PSB germination\r\npercentage was 86 percent. Inoculation of 20 gm. PSB\r\ngermination percentage was 89 percent .With the inoculation\r\nof 30 gm. PSB germination percentage was 94 percent.\r\nInoculation with the combination of the two biofertilizers\r\nAzotobacter + PSB 10 gm + 10 gm. Germination percentage\r\nwas observed 90 percent. Inoculation with 20 gm + 20 gm\r\nAzotobacter + PSB Germination percentage was observed\r\n92 percent. With the inoculation of 30 gm + 30 gm\r\nAzotobacter + PSB Germination percentage was observed\r\n100 percent. Control of Lens culinaris variety JL-3 showed\r\n80 percent germination percentage.\r\nSurvival percentage with the inoculation of 10 gm\r\nAzotobacter was 86 percent. With the inoculation of 20 gm\r\nAzotobacter it was 92 percent, with the inoculation of\r\n30 gm. Azotobacter survival percentage was 95 percent. With\r\nthe inoculation of PSB 10 gm survival percentage was 85\r\npercent. With the inoculation of PSB 20 gm survival\r\npercentage was 87 percent. Inoculation with 30 gm PSB\r\nsurvival percentage was 92 percent. With the inoculation of\r\ntwo biofertilizers in combination of Azotobacter + PSB\r\nmaximum survival was observed as compared to the separate\r\ndoses of biofertilizers Azotobacter and PSB. With inoculation\r\nof 10 gm + 10 gm Azotobacter + PSB it was 88%.With 20\r\ngm + 20 gm inoculation it was 91% and with the inoculation\r\nof 30 gm + 30 gm biofertilizes it was 99 percent. In control\r\nLens culinaris variety JL-3 the survival percentage was\r\nobserved 78 percent.\r\nTable 1 : Germination percentage and survival\r\nPercentage of Lens culinarisMedik., in variety JL - 3 under\r\nthe treatment of biofertilizers Azotobacter, PSB and their\r\ncombination.\r\nS.No. Treatment Concentration Germination % Survival %\r\n1. Azotobacter 10 gm 88% 86%\r\n2. Azotobacter 20 gm 92% 92%\r\n3. Azotobacter 30 gm 97% 95%\r\n4. PSB 10 gm 86% 85%\r\n5. PSB 20 gm 89% 87%\r\n6. PSB 30 gm 94% 92%\r\n7. Azotobacter 10 gm + 10 gm 90% 88%\r\n8. Azotobacter + PSB 20 gm + 20 gm 92% 91%\r\n9. Azotobacter + PSB 30 gm + 30gm 100% 99%\r\n10. Control 80% 78%\r\nResults in the Table 2 showed that the growth rate\r\nwas maximum in case of the inoculation with the combination\r\nof the two biofertilizers Azotobacter + PSB, less in case of\r\nAzotobacter inoculation and minimum with the inoculation\r\nof PSB. In control it least growth rate was observed.\r\nTable 2 : Growth rate (Shoot length, root length and dry weight) Lens culinaris, in variety JL-3 under the\r\ntreatment of biofertilizers Azotobacter, PSB and their combination.\r\nS.No. Treatment Concentration Shoot length Root length Dry weight\r\n1. Azotobacter 10 gm 10.2 cm 9.6 cm 0.55 gm\r\n2. Azotobacter 20 gm 10.5 cm 9.9 cm 0.61 gm\r\n3. Azotobacter 30 gm 10.9 cm 10.2 cm 0.69 gm\r\n4. PSB 10 gm 9.6 cm 8.9 cm 0.51gm\r\n5. PSB 20 gm 9.9 cm 9.2 cm 0.59 gm\r\n6. PSB 30 gm 10.3 cm 9.8 cm 0.65 gm\r\n7. Azotobacter + PSB 10 gm + 10 gm 10.8 cm 9.9 cm 0.62 gm\r\n8. Azotobacter + PSB 20 gm + 20 gm 11.2 cm 10.2 cm 0.68 gm\r\n9. Azotobacter + PSB 30 gm + 30 gm 11.9 cm 10.9 cm 0.76 gm\r\n10. Control 9.4 cm 8.5 cm 0.47 gm\r\nKumari, Vasu, Sharma and Hasan 67\r\nWith the inoculation of 10 gm Azotobacter growth rate\r\n(shoot length, root length and dry weight) was observed\r\n10.2 cm; 9.6 cm and 0.55 gm respectively 20 gm Azotobacter\r\ninoculation showed growth rate, 10.5 cm ; 9.9 cm and 0.61\r\ngm respectively. With 30 gm Azotobacter inoculation growth\r\nrate was observed 10.9 cm ; 10.2 cm and 0.69 gm respectively.\r\n10 gm PSB inoculation showed growth rate (shoot length,\r\nroot length and dry weight) 9.6 cm; 8.9 cm and 0.51 gm\r\nrespectively 20 gm PSB inoculation showed growth rate 9.9\r\ncm ; 9.2 and 0.59 gm respectively. With 30 gm PSB\r\ninoculation it was observed 10.3 cm ; 9.8 cm and 0.65 gm.\r\nrespectively. With the inoculation of two biofertilizers\r\nAzotobacter + PSB 10 gm +10 gm growth rate (shoot length,\r\nroot length and dry weight) was observed 10.8 cm; 9.9 cm\r\nand 0.62 gm respectively. With 20 gm + 20 gm inoculation it\r\nwas observed 11.2 cm ; 10.2 cm and 0.68 gm, with 30 gm +\r\n30 gm inoculation of biofertilizers it was observed 11.9 cm;\r\n10.9 cm and 0.76 gm respectively. In control of Lens culinaris\r\nvariety JL-3 growth rate (shoot length, root length and dry\r\nweight) was observed 9.4 cm, 8.5 cm and 0.47 gm\r\nrespectively.\r\nThese table showed that the germination percentage,\r\nsurvival percentantage and growth rate was increased with\r\nthe increase in the quantity of biofertilizers.\r\nTable 1 and Table 2, showed the germination percentage,\r\nsurvival percentantage and growth rate (shoot length, root\r\nlength and dry weight) Lens culinaris with the inoculation\r\nof the combination of Azotobacter + PSB biofertilizers the\r\ngermination percentage, survival percentantage and growth\r\nrate increases with the increase in the dose and it was\r\nobserved maximum in case of the highest doses of\r\nbiofertilizer and it was observed least in case of control.\r\nWith the inoculation of Azotobacer biofertilizer the\r\ngermination percentage, survival percentantage and growth\r\nrate was observed more than PSB and less than the\r\ncombination of the two biofertilizers. It was also increased\r\nwith the increase in the quantity of the biofertilizers PSB.\r\nLeast germination percentage, survival percentantage and\r\ngrowth rate was observed in control. With the inoculation\r\nof the PSB biofertilizer the germination percentage, survival\r\npercentantage and growth rate was observed less than\r\nAzotobacter and the combination of the two biofertilizers\r\nbut it was more than the control. It was observed that in\r\nthis case also the germination percentage, survival\r\npercentantage and growth rate increased with the increase\r\nin quantity of biofertilizer.','Monika Kumari, Dheeraj Vasu, Anita Sharma and Zia-Ul-Hasan (2010). Germination, Survival and Growth rate (Shoot length, root length and dry\r\nweight) of Lens culinaris Medik. the masoor, induced by biofertilizers\r\ntreatment. BBiioollooggiiccaal lF Foorurmum —– AAnn IInnteternrnaatitoinoanla Jl oJuorunranl,a2l,(21)(:1 6):5-162. '),(4719,'128','Some new records of moth from Andaman and Nicobar Islands','C. Sivaperuman*, Suresh Kumar Shah, C. Raghunathan and Ramakrishna','15 C SIVAPERUNAN.pdf','',1,'-','-','-','Moths are often regarded as less engaging but with\r\ntheir diversity of shapes, sizes and colors they are as\r\nfascinating as butterflies. Though moths are much common\r\nthan butterflies, people always refer to butterflies when\r\nspeaking about Lepidoptera. In fact 95 per cent of all\r\nLepidoptera are moths. Biologists estimate that worldwide\r\nthere are about 1,70,000 species of butterflies and moths, of\r\nwhich approximately 18,000 belong to butterfly species and\r\nrest are moths. There are about 1,50,000 to 2,50,000 species\r\nof moth, with thousands of species yet to be described.\r\nMost species of moth are nocturnal, but there are crepuscular\r\nand diurnal species. It is estimated that approximately 10,000\r\nspecies of moths are to be found in India belongs to 41\r\nfamilies.\r\nThe Andaman and Nicobar Islands is known for rich\r\nbiodiversity resources. The archipelago comprises 572\r\nislands and extending over 800 km. The Andaman Islands\r\nare the extension of the submerged Arakan Yoma Mountain\r\nrange of Myanmar and the Nicobars are the continuation of\r\nthe Mentawai Islands to the south and southeast of Sumatra.\r\nThe topography of the Andaman and Nicobar Islands are\r\nhilly and undulating, the elevation in Andamans is from 0\r\nto 732 m and Saddle Peak is the highest in North Andaman\r\nIsland. In the Nicobars the elevation rises from 0 to 568 m,\r\nMt Thuillier being the highest peak in Great Nicobar Island.\r\nThe habitats represented in these islands include bays,\r\nmangroves, moist deciduous forests and evergreen forests.\r\nThese islands are tropical, that is, warm, moist and equable.\r\nThe proximity of the sea and the abundant rainfall prevent\r\nextremes of heat. The mountainous parts of the southern\r\ngroup of islands get about 300 cm of rain annually whereas\r\nthe islands of north get lesser rainfall. Flora and fauna in\r\nAndaman bears close biogeographical affinities with\r\nMyanmar and Thailand while Nicobar has affinities with\r\nIndo-Mayan regions.\r\nDuring the recent faunal surveys in Great Nicobar Island\r\nin Nicobar and Neil Island in South Andaman, we have\r\ncollected two species of moths namely Ophiusa coronata\r\nFabricius 1794 and Anisodes absconditaria Walker 1862\r\nrespectively, which is the first report of Ophiusa coronata\r\nSome new records of moth from Andaman and Nicobar Islands\r\nC. Sivaperuman*, Suresh Kumar Shah, C. Raghunathan and Ramakrishna*\r\nZoological Survey of India\r\nAndaman and Nicobar Regional Centre Port Blair\r\nAndaman and Nicobar Islands\r\n* Zoological Survey of India, Prani Vigyan Bhawan,\r\nM-Block, New Alipore, Kolkata (WB)\r\nISSN : 0975-1130\r\nBiological Forum — An International Journal, 2(2): 68-69(2010)\r\nfrom Nicobar Group of Islands and Anisodes absconditaria\r\nis from Andaman and Nicobar islands. Literature review\r\nrevealed that earlier workers have not been reported the\r\nOphiusa coronata Fabricius 1794 from Nicobar Islands and\r\nAnisodes absconditaria Walker 1862 from Andaman &\r\nNicobar Islands (Bhummanawar et al., 1991; Chandra and\r\nKumar, 1992; Chandra and Rajan, 1995 and Chandra, 1993,\r\n1994, 1996, 1997). The identified materials are deposited in\r\nthe National Zoological Collection, at Zoological Survey of\r\nIndia, Andaman and Nicobar Regional Centre, Port Blair,\r\nAndaman & Nicobar Islands.\r\nSYSTEMATIC ACCOUNT\r\n1. Ophiusa coronata Fabricius 1794\r\nOrder : Lepidopetra\r\nFamily : Noctuidae\r\nSpecies : Ophiusa coronata Fabricius 1794\r\n1894 Ophiusa coronata Fabricius, Fauna Brit. India,\r\nMoths - II: 502p.\r\n1985 Ophiusa coronata Fabricius, Heterocera\r\nsumatrana,Vol. 4: 36p.\r\nMaterial examined. 1ex, Male; Place of collection: East-\r\nWest Road, GNBR (06° 59.825’ N; 93° 54.608’ E); Date of\r\ncollection: 27.02.2010; Collected by C. Sivaperuman and party\r\nat light (Reg. No. 2396).\r\nWing expanse. 72 mm.\r\nDiagnosis. Head and thorax are deep pale russet brown.\r\nAbdomen bright yellow, the dorsal segments are fringed with\r\nblack bands. Forewing deep reddish brown patterned with\r\ndark specks and an outward oblique antemedial line and\r\ninward post medial line, a reniform large chocolate spot.\r\nHind wing orange yellow patterned with brownish black\r\nbands. The legs are deep brown and hairy.\r\nDistribution. Throughout India, Sri Lanka, Burma, Java,\r\nAustralia and Andaman Islands.\r\n2. Anisodes absconditaria Walker 1862\r\nOrder : Lepidopetra\r\nFamily : Geometridae\r\nSpecies : Anisodes absconditaria Walker 1862\r\nSivaperuman, Shah, Raghunathan and Ramakrishna 69\r\n1894 Ophiusa coronata Fabricius, Fauna Brit. India,\r\nMoths - II: 502p.\r\nMaterial examined. 1ex, Male; Place of collection: Neil\r\nIsland, South Andaman (11° 50.120’ N; 93° 01.402’ E); Date\r\nof collection: 22.03.2010; Collected by C. Sivaperuman and\r\nparty at light (Reg. No. 2399).\r\nWing expanse. 38 mm.\r\nDiagnosis. It is medium size, head and thorax pale in\r\ncolour. Wings mosaic with fine reddish brown. Forewing\r\nwith two distinct waved postmedial lines. Hind wings are\r\nsimilar with large black diffused speck. Under side of the\r\nforewing suffused with pink.\r\nDistribution. South India, Nilgiris, Sri Lanka, Khasis\r\nhills\r\nACKNOWLEDGEMENTS\r\nThe authors are thankful to the Ministry of Environment\r\nand Forests, Government of India for their support for this\r\nstudy. Shri. Dinesh Kannan, Divisional Forest Officer,\r\nNicobar Division, Campbell Bay and Shri. Yadav Divisional\r\nForest Officer, Havelock Forest Division is also\r\nacknowledged for their timely help during the survey.','C. Sivaperuman*, Suresh Kumar Shah, C. Raghunathan and Ramakrishna (2010). Some new records of moth from Andaman and Nicobar Islands. Biological Forum — An International Journal, 2(2): 68-69. '),(4720,'128','Effects of springtails community on plant-growth','Deepmala Verma and A.K. Paliwal','16 DEEPMALA.pdf','',1,'The soil is a reservoir of organisms ranging from beneficial to deleterious for plants. The\r\ninteractions among these organisms are very important for plant growth and health. The majority of springtails\r\nfeed on fungal hyphae or decaying plant material. In the soil, they may influence the growth of mycorrhizae and\r\ncontrol fungal diseases of some plants. Therefore, the objective of this article discussed the role of springtails\r\ncommunity on plant growth.','Springtail, soil fertility.','The soil is a reservoir of organisms ranging from beneficial to deleterious for plants. The\r\ninteractions among these organisms are very important for plant growth and health. The majority of springtails\r\nfeed on fungal hyphae or decaying plant material. In the soil, they may influence the growth of mycorrhizae and\r\ncontrol fungal diseases of some plants. Therefore, the objective of this article discussed the role of springtails\r\ncommunity on plant growth.','Collembola (commonly known as “springtails”) are\r\ncurrently considered to be a monophyletic Class of the\r\nPhylum Arthropoda There are three main Orders of\r\nCollembola. Members of the Arthropleona (about 6500\r\nspecies) have a more or less elongated body shape and\r\nrange from highly active surface-dwelling species to those\r\nthat live out all their lives in the depths of the soil. An\r\nexample of this Order is Folsomia candida , which belongs\r\nto the Family Isotomidae. It is familiar to ecotoxicologists as\r\none of a suite of “standard test soil organisms,” which are\r\nused to assess the toxicity of new chemicals before they\r\nare released into the environment. The soil is a reservoir of\r\norganisms ranging from beneficial to deleterious for plants.\r\nThe interactions among these organisms are very important\r\nfor plant growth and health. The majority of springtails feed\r\non fungal hyphae or decaying plant material. In the soil,\r\nthey may influence the growth of mycorrhizae and control\r\nfungal diseases of some plants (Lubbock,1973). Therefore,\r\nthe objective of this paper discussed the role of springtails\r\ncommunity on plant growth.\r\nEffects of springtails community on plant-growth\r\nDeepmala Verma and A.K. Paliwal\r\nDepartment of Zoology, Ganjdundwara (P.G) College, Ganjdundwara,\r\nDr. B.R. Ambedkar University, (U.P.) India\r\nABSTRACT : The soil is a reservoir of organisms ranging from beneficial to deleterious for plants. The\r\ninteractions among these organisms are very important for plant growth and health. The majority of springtails\r\nfeed on fungal hyphae or decaying plant material. In the soil, they may influence the growth of mycorrhizae and\r\ncontrol fungal diseases of some plants. Therefore, the objective of this article discussed the role of springtails\r\ncommunity on plant growth.\r\nKeywords: Springtail, soil fertility.\r\nISSN : 0975-1130\r\nBiological Forum — An International Journal, 2(2): 70-72(2010)\r\nCOLLEMBOLAN DIVERSITY\r\nHabitats with extreme climates such as deserts and polar\r\nregions support few species of Collembola, but sites with\r\nmany niches have a diverse springtail fauna. Collembola\r\nseem to follow the general rule that diversity is inversely\r\nrelated to latitude; that is, there are more species in tropical\r\nthan in temperate zones. In tropical rain forests, more than\r\n130 species m-2 have been found in soil, leaf litter, and\r\naboveground vegetation. In more temperate forests, diversity\r\nis lower, but it is not unusual to find more than 40 species\r\nin deciduous woodland. Collembola exhibit dominance\r\npatterns typical of most groups of terrestrial arthropods.\r\nThe majority of individuals are usually represented by a\r\nsmall number of common species. In most populations, a\r\nlarge fraction of the species (usually >50%) is rare with\r\ndominance values of 1% ( Axelsen et al., 2000 and Stork\r\net al., 1993).\r\nSTUDY OF COLLEMBOLA BIODIVERSITY IN\r\nAGRA REGIONS\r\nSome species of collembola found in agra regions are\r\ngiven in Table -1.\r\nTable 1 : List of springtails (Collembola) of Agra regions.\r\nFamily S1 S2 S3 S4 S5\r\nHypogastruridae\r\nHypogastrura (Ceratophysella)\r\nH. (C.) denticulata Bagnall, 1941 - + + + +\r\nH. (C.) armata Nicolet, 1842 - + - + -\r\nH. (H.) purpurescens Lubbock, 1867 - - - - +\r\nIsotomidae\r\nFolsomia penicula Bagnall, 1939 + - + - +\r\nFolsomia quadrioculata Tullberg, 1971 + - - - -\r\nFolsomia similis Bagnall, 1939 - - + - -\r\nFolsomia candida Willem, 1902 + + + + +\r\nFolsomia strenzkei Nosek, 1963 - - - - -\r\nIsotoma viridis Bourlet, 1839 + + + + -\r\nEntomobryidae\r\nEntomobrya sp.\r\nVerma and Paliwal 71\r\nFamily S1 S2 S3 S4 S5\r\nEntomobrya marginata Tullberg, 1871 + + + - +\r\nEntomobrya nivalis Linnaeus, 1758 - - - - -\r\nEntomobrya arborea Tullberg, 1871 - - - - -\r\nEntomobrya quinquelineata Börner, 1901 - - - - -\r\nEntomobrya puncteola Uzel, 1891 - - - - +\r\nTotal species 5 5 6 4 6\r\nS1= SIKANDRA, S2= PALIWAL PARK, S3= VICTORIA GARDEN, S4= KEETHAM, S5= BICHPURI\r\nABUNDANCE\r\nCollembola are extremely abundant in soil and leaf litter.\r\nIn most terrestrial ecosystems they occur in high numbers,\r\ntypically between 104 and 105 m–2. Densities of springtails\r\nof more than 105 m–2 have been found in pine forests in\r\nIndia and Japan, moorland in England, and dry meadows in\r\nNorway. Collembola are particularly abundant in agricultural\r\nsoils that are farmed “organically”. In the rain forests,\r\nCollembola comprise about 20% of the total number of\r\narthropods on tree trunks and 50% and 60% of the total\r\nfrom soil and leaf litter, respectively. However, because of\r\ntheir small size the contribution of Collembola to total soil\r\nanimal biomass and respiration is low, typically between 1%\r\nand 5% in temperate ecosystems, but up to about 10% in\r\nsome arctic sites and as much as 33% of total soil fauna\r\nrespiration in ecosystems in early stages of succession.\r\nTypical values for the dry weight of springtails in temperate\r\necosystems are 0.15 gm 22 in deciduous woodland and\r\n0.3 gm–2 in limestone grassland.\r\nCHANGES IN SOIL STRUCTURE\r\nDespite their relatively low biomass, springtails are\r\nextremely important in influencing the structure of some\r\nsoils. For example, “alpine pitch rendzinas” on limestone are\r\ncomposed mainly of a deep black humus layer of 15 to 20\r\ncm in depth that is formed almost entirely of Collembola\r\nfeces. Most soils contain millions of collembolan fecal pellets\r\nm–2, and these must be beneficial in slowly releasing\r\nessential nutrients to plant roots as the pellets are broken\r\ndown by microbes (Messer et al., 2000)\r\nROLE IN DECOMPOSITION\r\nThe main effect of Collembola on decomposition and\r\n“soil respiration” is through feeding on fungal hyphae. At\r\ncertain densities of Collembola, grazing of mycorrhizae on\r\nroots can stimulate growth of the symbiont and improve\r\nplant growth. In other situations, Collembola may reduce\r\ndisease by consuming pest fungi. Selective grazing by\r\nspringtails may be an important factor limiting the distribution\r\nof certain species of basidiomycete fungi in the field.\r\nHowever, many of these effects are density-dependent, and\r\ntoo little information is available for quantifying accurately\r\nthe specific contribution of Collembola to “indirect” or\r\n“catalytic” decomposition. Nevertheless, the influence of\r\nspringtails on decomposition and nutrient availability must\r\nbe significant in many ecosystems(Sabatini and Innocenti,\r\n2001 and Hagvar, 2000).\r\nSPRINGTAILS AND PLANT GROWTH\r\nVery few people really understand how soils work. I’d\r\nlike to give three illustrative examples of how soil arthropods,\r\nsoil microbes and roots work together as a combined system\r\nin the real world. The first example is of onion production.\r\nBasically, the plant is incapable of taking up any phosphorus\r\nfrom the soil unless it has mycorrhizae on its roots.\r\nMycorrhizae, literally meaning fungus roots, are thread like\r\nfungal bodies that interact with plant roots that pick up lots\r\nof phosphorous and other substances.\r\nThe growth of the plant depends upon the number of\r\narthropods called springtails living in the soil. Springtails\r\nfunction by eating the tips of the mycorrhizae which\r\nstimulates the mycorrhizae to grow, dissolve more nutrients\r\nin the soil around it, and feed it to the plant. As the number\r\nof springtails in the soil increases, the plant grows faster\r\nuntil there are so many springtails that they eat all the\r\nmycorrhizae. Then growth of the onions drops to zero again.\r\nThe second example of oak forests . When oak trees live\r\non sandy soil they grow very slowly. They don’t make many\r\nleaves so there’s not much leaf litter at the end of the year.\r\nBut the litter that does come down year after year piles up\r\nvery thick. Most of the nutrients are in the litter layer,\r\nunused, not part of the biological growth of that ecosystem.\r\nOn the other hand, oak trees that grow on clay soil grow\r\nvery fast and have lots of leaves. But when the leaves hit\r\nthe ground they decompose very rapidly and make a very\r\nthin litter layer. All the nutrients in that ecosystem are bound\r\nup into the tree growth itself. An oak tree puts lots of\r\nchemicals in its leaves called phenols (a mildly acidic toxin)\r\nthat prevent caterpillars from destroying the trees. When\r\nthe leaves die and become litter on the ground, the phenols\r\nare still in the leaf. When a millipede or an earthworm comes\r\nalong and starts to e at., that leaf, the PH changes and the\r\nphenols polymerize (combine with each other) forming a\r\nplastic rubbery mass that in turn kills the millipedes. In clay\r\nsoils however, springtails are present and fill their bellies\r\nwith inorganic clay particles. At night springtails migrate up\r\nto the litter layer and feed on fungi and leaf litter. The\r\ninorganic clay particles in the gut prevent the polymerization\r\nfrom taking place. As a result, the nutrients in the ecosystem\r\ncycle through the environment and leaf litter does not build\r\n72 Verma and Paliwal\r\nup(Gange et al., 2000). The point of the story is that the\r\nproductivity of that entire forest ecosystem is basically the\r\nresult of one little arthropod in that soil. Soil invertebrates\r\nare system catalysts. They regulate the rate of decomposition\r\nand the rate of nutrient cycling by breaking down litter and\r\nsmall organisms (like chewing) but don’t chemically process\r\nnutrients in the soil. This is important because every\r\nchemical and physical property of soil is basically driven\r\nby the surface area to volume ratio of the particles that\r\nmake it up. In essence soil invertebrates make nutrients\r\nandorganic components usable for other organisms\r\n(Hopkin,2003). Additionally, soil invertebrates mix organic and\r\nthe inorganic components changing the microstructure of\r\nthe soil, which in turn drives the complex processes of\r\nmicrobial succession (the process by which a plant or animal\r\ncommunities change over time). Invertebrates feed on the\r\ncurrent microbial crop and their own feces provide for a\r\nnew and different type of microbial community to develop\r\n(Gloria et al., 2009). In fact, most organisms eat the manure\r\nor feces of the other things. As a result, the total nutrient\r\ncontent of a soil, whether tied up in organic matter or\r\nimmobilized in inorganic phases in the mineral soil, are of\r\nsecondary importance.','Deepmala Verma and A.K. Paliwal (2010). Effects of springtails community on plant-growth. Biological Forum — An International Journal, 2(2): 70-72. '),(4721,'128','Studies on the floral composition in the six selected provenances of\r\nSandal (Santalum album Linnaeus) of South India','R. Sundararaj* and Gaurav Sharma','17 DR GAURAV.pdf','',1,'A detailed study on the floral composition in six selected provenances of sandal (Santalum album\r\nLinnaeus) in different localities of south India has been made during August, 2004 to September, 2006. The six\r\nsandal provenances selected for the study were Bangalore, Thangli and Mandagadde in Karnataka, Javadis and\r\nChitteri in Tamil Nadu and Marayoor in Kerala. Around 76 floral species excluding grasses were recorded from\r\nthe selected provenances of sandal. The floral composition consists of 21 species under 15 families in Bangalore,\r\n16 species under 14 families in Thangali, 16 species under 16 families in Mandagadde, 22 species under 17\r\nfamilies in Chitteri and 28 species under 22 families in Javadis and 16 species under 10 families in Marayoor.\r\nThe density, frequency, abundance and A/F ratio of plant species found in all the provenances were calculated.','Sandal, provenance, floral composition, South India.','A detailed study on the floral composition in six selected provenances of sandal (Santalum album\r\nLinnaeus) in different localities of south India has been made during August, 2004 to September, 2006. The six\r\nsandal provenances selected for the study were Bangalore, Thangli and Mandagadde in Karnataka, Javadis and\r\nChitteri in Tamil Nadu and Marayoor in Kerala. Around 76 floral species excluding grasses were recorded from\r\nthe selected provenances of sandal. The floral composition consists of 21 species under 15 families in Bangalore,\r\n16 species under 14 families in Thangali, 16 species under 16 families in Mandagadde, 22 species under 17\r\nfamilies in Chitteri and 28 species under 22 families in Javadis and 16 species under 10 families in Marayoor.\r\nThe density, frequency, abundance and A/F ratio of plant species found in all the provenances were calculated.','After the Rio conference every country has started\r\nshowing great concern for conserving their biodiversity for\r\nits great utilitarian values. India is one of the 12 centres of\r\nthe origin of cultivated plants known as the Hindustan Centre\r\nof Origin of Crops and Plant diversity. India has a very rich\r\nbiological diversity which is due to the wide range of\r\nphysiographic and climatic conditions. As per report about\r\n4 to 5% of all known plant species on earth are found in\r\nIndia. Embracing 10 biogeographic zones and 25 distinct\r\nbiotic provinces, India incorporates an exceptional range of\r\nbiodiversity including all the world\'s major ecosystems. Next\r\nto the Himalayan mountain forests the biodiversity of the\r\ntropical forests is found only in the Southern Peninsula.\r\nAmong the important tree species of India, Sandal (Santalum\r\nalbum Linn.) is indigenous to Peninsular India, which has\r\nhigh economic value. Sandal wood tree commonly known\r\nas Chandan is prized for its oil and heartwood. It is estimated\r\nthat the annual requirements by the Indian essential oil and\r\nallied industries is about 50 tones of oil and on an average\r\n30 to 40 tones of oil is required for export. Though sandal\r\nis distributed all over the country it grows naturally and\r\nextensively in Karnataka, Tamil Nadu and Kerala and more\r\nthan 90% lies in Karnataka and Tamil Nadu. It occurs in\r\nsouthern dry deciduous and thorn forest types either along\r\nwith other species as an “associate” or along farm bunds\r\nand fence of private holdings. It is a semi-root parasite and\r\ncan parasitize over 300 species of plants representing almost\r\nall the family of plants and found in association with other\r\ntrees. Its roots are partially parasitic on the roots of other\r\nplants from which their haustoria obtain their nutrient material\r\nparticularly nitrogen and phosphorus. The biotic factors and\r\npests are affecting the yield of sandal. The important host\r\nplants of sandal includes Casuarina equisetifolia, Melia\r\ndubea, Acacia nilotica, Wrightia tinctoria, Pongamia pinnata,\r\nTerminalia arjuna, T. alata, Dalbergia sissoo, Cassia siamia,\r\nStudies on the floral composition in the six selected provenances of\r\nSandal (Santalum album Linnaeus) of South India\r\nR. Sundararaj* and Gaurav Sharma**\r\n*Wood Biodegradation Division, Institute of Wood Science and Technology (ICFRE), 18th Cross, Malleswaram, Bangalore India.\r\n*Desert Regional Centre, Zoological Survey of India (MoEF), Post-Jhalamand, Pali Road, Jodhpur, (RJ) India.\r\nABSTRACT : A detailed study on the floral composition in six selected provenances of sandal (Santalum album\r\nLinnaeus) in different localities of south India has been made during August, 2004 to September, 2006. The six\r\nsandal provenances selected for the study were Bangalore, Thangli and Mandagadde in Karnataka, Javadis and\r\nChitteri in Tamil Nadu and Marayoor in Kerala. Around 76 floral species excluding grasses were recorded from\r\nthe selected provenances of sandal. The floral composition consists of 21 species under 15 families in Bangalore,\r\n16 species under 14 families in Thangali, 16 species under 16 families in Mandagadde, 22 species under 17\r\nfamilies in Chitteri and 28 species under 22 families in Javadis and 16 species under 10 families in Marayoor.\r\nThe density, frequency, abundance and A/F ratio of plant species found in all the provenances were calculated.\r\nKey words : Sandal, provenance, floral composition, South India.\r\nISSN : 0975-1130\r\nBiological Forum — An International Journal, 2(2): 73-77(2010)\r\nBauhinia biloba etc., in its natural habitats. Review of\r\nliterature reveals that no consolidated account is available\r\non the floral composition of sandal dominated ecosystem.\r\nTherefore, the present study made a modest attempt to study\r\nassociated vegetation and their interaction with sandal in\r\nsix selected sandal provenances of South India.\r\nMATERIAL AND METHODS\r\nA detailed study on the floral composition in six selected\r\nprovenances of sandal (Santalum album Linnaeus) in different\r\nlocalities of south India has been made during August, 2004\r\nto September, 2006. For this purpose six provenances of\r\nsandal from south India were selected. They were Bangalore,\r\nThangli and Mandagadde in Karnataka, Javadis and Chitteri\r\nin Tamil Nadu and Marayoor in Kerala. The survey was\r\nconducted two times in a year representing summer and\r\nwinter season. Blocks of the size 50 x 50 ft in five replications\r\nwere marked in all the selected sandal provenances for\r\nsampling. From each block vegetation samples were collected\r\nand in the lab herbarium were prepared. The common\r\nvegetation were identified in the field and other species were\r\ngot identified with the help of literature and by the experts\r\nof IWST and ATREE, Bangalore. The identified floral sample\r\nherbariums were deposited at the Wood Biodegradation\r\nDivision of Institute of Wood Science and Technology\r\n(ICFRE), Bangalore.\r\nRESULTS AND DISCUSSION\r\nA detailed study on the floral composition in six selected\r\nprovenances of sandal (Santalum album Linnaeus) in south\r\nIndia has been made during August, 2004 to September,\r\n2006. The areas of study/the six selected Sandal\r\nProvenances in South India details recorded as in Table-1.\r\n74 Sundararaj and Sharma\r\nTable 1 : Details of six selected Sandal Provenances in South India.\r\nPotential Forest Latitude Altitude Me an Temp. Soil type pH TSS\r\nSandal division and (m) ann ual Max/min Mhos/Cm\r\nprovenance and state longitude rainfall (°C)\r\n(mm)\r\nBangalore Bangalore 12058°N 1000 850 36.8/12.2 Red loam 6.3 – 6.5 acidic 251.1 m mhos\r\nThangli Chickmag 13°40N 766 1500 44.0/10.5 Red load 7.5 – 7.8 2.3 m mhos\r\nalur, and alluvium alkaline\r\nKarnataka\r\nMandagadde Shimoga 13°9N 650 2000 38.113.0 Red loam 5.5 – 5.8 317.0 \r\nKarnataka 75°40E Acidic mhos\r\nChitteri Harur, 12°0 N 1050 1000 35.2/8.2 Red sandy 6.0 – 6.3 327.3 \r\nTamil Nadu 78°7E load Acidic mhos\r\nJavadis Tirupattur, 12°3 N 930 1200 38.0 Red loam 6.6 – 6.7 432.5 m\r\nTamil Nadu 78°7E Acidic mhos\r\nMayayoor Munnar 10°1N 1000 1450 36.0/10.0 Black clay 6.2° 6.7 362.0\r\nKerala 77°1E Acidic mhos\r\nThe floral composition in all the selected provenances\r\nof sandal including trees, shrubs except grasses were\r\nidentified and documented. Around 76 floral species\r\nexcluding grasses were recorded from the selected\r\nprovenances of sandal. The floral composition consists of\r\n21 species under 15 families in Bangalore (Table-2), 16\r\nTable 2 : Floral composition of Bangalore Sandal Provenance (Karnataka).\r\nS.No. Plant species Family Type of flora Density Frequency Abundance A/F ratio\r\n1. Annona squamosa Linn. Annonaceae T 0.4 0.4 1.0 2.5\r\n2. Artocarpus heterophyllus Lam. Moraceae T 0.4 0.2 1.0 5.0\r\n3. Bambusa sp. Poaceae T 0.2 0.2 1.0 5.0\r\n4. Broussenetia papyrifera Vent. Moraceae S 0.4 0.6 3.3 5.5\r\n5. Caryota urens Linn. Palmae S 0.4 0.4 1.0 7.0\r\n6. Casurina equisitifolia Forster Casurinaceae T 0.8 0.8 08 12.5\r\n& Forster\r\n7. Coffea arabica Linn. Rubiaceae S 2.2 0.4 5.5 13.7\r\n8. Coffea robusta Linn. Rubiaceae S 0.2 0.2 1.0 5.0\r\n9. Delonix regia R. Hook. Leguminaceae T 0.2 0.6 3.3 5.5\r\n10. Eucalyptus sp. Myrtaceae T 0.2 0.2 1.0 5.0\r\n11. Ficus glomerata Roxb. Moraceae T 0.2 0.2 1.0 5.0\r\n12. Gliricidia sepium Papilionaceae S 1.4 0.6 2.3 3.8\r\n(Jacq.) Kanthex.\r\n13. Grevellia robusta A. Cunn. Protreaceae T 0.2 0.2 1.0 5.0\r\n14. Lantana camara Linn. Verbenaceae S 0.4 0.2 2.0 10.0\r\n15. Leucaena leucocephala (Lam.) Leguminosae T 0.6 0.2 3.0 15.0\r\n16. Pongamia pinnata (Linn.) Papilionaceae T 1.2 0.4 3.0 7.5\r\n17. Santalum album Linn. Santalaceae T 18.0 1.0 18.0 18.0\r\n18. Spathodea companulata Beauv. Bignoniaceae T 0.6 0.4 1.5 3.7\r\n19. Tamarindus indica Linn. Caesalpiniaceae T 0.2 0.2 1.0 5.0\r\n20. Ziziphus oenoplea (Linn.) Rhamnaceae S 0.1 0.2 5.0 25.0\r\n21 Ziziphus sp. Rhamnaceae T 1.6 0.4 4.0 10.0\r\nspecies under 14 families in Thangali (Table-3), 16 species\r\nunder 16 families in Mandagadde (Table-4), 22 species under\r\n17 families in Chitteri (Table-5) and 28 species under 22\r\nfamilies in Javadis (Table-6) and 16 species under 10 families\r\nin Marayoor (Table-7).\r\nSundararaj and Sharma 75\r\nTable 3 : Floral composition of Thangali Sandal Provenance (Karnataka).\r\nS.No. Plant species Family Type of flora Dens ity Frequency Abundance A/F ratio\r\n1. Santalum album Linn. Santalaceae T 13.4 1.0 13.4 13.40\r\n2. Prosopis juliflora (Sw.) Leguminasae T 2.6 0.8 3.25 4.06\r\n3. Tamarindus indica Linn. Caesaipiniaceae T 0 1 0.6 1.66 2.76\r\n4. Feronia elephantum Corr. Rutaceae T 0.4 0.2 1.00 5.00\r\n5. Phoenix sylvestris (Linn.) Aracaceae S 2.2 0.6 3.66 6.10\r\n6. Eucalyptus sp. Myrtaceae T 2.2 0.4 3.66 9.15\r\n7. Leucaena leucocephala (Lam.) Leguminasae T 5.2 0.4 13.00 32.5\r\n8. Acacia monoacantha (Willd.) Mimosaceae T 1.2 0.6 2.00 3.33\r\n9. Cordia wallintona Cordiaceae T 0.4 0.2 1.00 5.00\r\n10. Ziziphus jujuba Lamk. Rhamnaceae T 0.2 0.2 1.00 5.00\r\n11. Streblus aspera Lour Moraceae T 0.2 0.2 1.00 5.00\r\n12. Carrisa sp. Apocynaceae S 0.4 0.2 1.00 5.00\r\n13. Acacia nilotica (Linn.) Mimosaceae T 0.2 0.2 1.00 5.00\r\n14. Agave sp. Amaryllidaceae S 2.0 0.2 10.00 50.00\r\n15. Annona squamosa Linn. Annonaceae T 0.6 0.4 1.5 3.75\r\n16. Parthenium hysterophorus Linn. Compositae H 12.2 0.8 16.00 20.00\r\nTable 4 : Floral composition of Mandagadde Sandal Provenance (Karnataka).\r\nS.No. Plant species Family Type of flora Dens ity Frequency Abundance A/F ratio\r\n1. Santalum album Linn. Santalaceae T 12.8 1.0 12.8 12.8\r\n2. Tectona grandis L.f. Verbanaceae T 1 1 .0.8 13.75 17.8\r\n3. Sapindus laurifolius Vahl. Sapindaceae T 0.4 0.4 1.00 2.50\r\n4. Bambusa sp. Graminae T 4.2 0.8 5.25 6.56\r\n5. Syzygium cumini (Linn.) Myrtaceae T 0.6 0.2 1.00 5.00\r\n6. Terminalia poniculata Roxb. Combretaceae T 6.8 1.0 6.8 6.8\r\n7. Trema orientalis Linn. Ulmaceae T 1.4 0.6 2.33 3.80\r\n8. Strychnos nux-vomica Linn. Loganiaceae T 2.2 0.6 2.75 4.58\r\n9. Erythroxylon sp. Erythroxylaceae T 1.0 0.4 2.50 6.25\r\n10. Ficus glomerata Roxb. Moraceae T 0.2 0.2 1.00 5.00\r\n11. Psychotria sp. Rubiaceae S 1.4 0.8 1.75 2.18\r\n12. Ziziphus jujuba Lamk. Rhamnaceae T 0.8 0.6 1.33 2.21\r\n13. Cassia tora Linn. Caesalpiniaceae S 0 3 0.4 9.50 18.75\r\n14. Lantana camera Linn. Verbenaceae S 0 2 0.6 3.33 5.55\r\n15. Ficus benghalensis Linn. Mimosaceae T 0.8 0.4 2.00 5.00\r\n16. Tecoma stans (Linn.) Bignoniaceae S 0.4 0.4 1.00 2.56\r\nTable 5 : Floral composition of Chitteri Sandal Provenance (Tamil Nadu).\r\nS.No. Plant species Family Type of flora Dens ity Frequency Abundance A/F ratio\r\n1. Santalum album Linn. Santalaceae T 16.6 1.0 16.60 16.60\r\n2. Cassia hirsuta Lam. Caesalpiniaceae S 4.8 0.6 8.00 1.33\r\n3. Cassia fistula Linn. Caesalpiniaceae S 3.8 0.4 9.50 23.75\r\n4. Bambusa bambusa Poaceae T 1.2 0.4 3.00 7.50\r\n5. Ziziphus oenoplea (Linn.) Rhamnaceae T 0.8 0.6 3.00 2.21\r\n6. Albizia lebbeck (L.)Willd. Mimosaceae T 0.2 0.6 1.00 1.66\r\n7. Spathodea companulata Beauv. Bignoniaceae T 0.2 0.2 1.00 5.00\r\n8. Chromolaena odorata (Linn.) Asteraceae H 3 0 0.4 75.00 187.50\r\n9. Lantana camara Linn. Verbenaceae S 3 0 0.8 37.50 46.87\r\n10. Ficus glomerata Roxb. Caeselpiniaceae T 0.4 0.2 1.00 5.00\r\n11. Erythroxylon monogynum Roxb. Erythroxylaceae T 0.8 0.2 1.00 5.00\r\n12. Clausena dentata Oliv. Rutaceae T 4.6 0.6 7.66 12.76\r\n13. Syzygium cumini (Linn.) Myrtaceae T 0.4 0.2 1.00 5.00\r\n14. Leucaena leucocephala Lam. Caeselpiniaceae T 0.6 0.4 1.50 3.75\r\n15. Anogeissus latifolia Wall. Combretaceae T 4.4 0.8 5.55 6.93\r\n76 Sundararaj and Sharma\r\nS.No. Plant species Family Type of flora Dens ity Frequency Abundance A/F ratio\r\n16. Dodonaea viscosa (Linn.) Sapindaceae S 5.0 1.0 30.00 37.50\r\n17. Randia dumetorum (Retz.) Rubiaceae T 2.4 0.4 37.50 9.37\r\n18. Chloroxylon swietenia DC. Meliaceae S 2.4 0.4 6.00 15.00\r\n19. Maba buxifolia Rottb. Ebenaceae S 0.8 0.2 75.00 375.00\r\n20. Canthium dicoccum (Gaertn) Rubiaceae T 0.8 0.4 1.00 2.50\r\n21. Pterolobium indicum A. Rich Fabaceae T 0.6 0.4 1.00 2.50\r\n22. Tarema asiatica Rubiaceae S 11.46 0.4 11.40 27.50\r\nTable 6 : Composition of Javadis (Kavalur) Sandal Provenance (Tamil Nadu).\r\nS.No. Plant species Family Type of flora Dens ity Frequency Abundance A/F ratio\r\n1. Santalum album Linn. Santalaceae T 21.8 1.0 21.80 21.80\r\n2. Delonix regia (Boj.) Leguminasae T 0.2 0.2 1.00 5.00\r\n3. Tecoma sp. Bignoniaceae T 0.2 0.2 1.00 5.00\r\n4. Annona squamosa Annonaceae T 1.6 0.8 2.66 3.32\r\n5. Melia azedirach Linn. Meliaceae T 1.6 0.2 2.00 10.00\r\n6. Tectona grandis L.F. Verbenaceae T 0.4 0.2 1.00 5.00\r\n7. Pongamia pinnata (Linn.) Papilionaceae T 0.6 0.2 1.00 5.00\r\n8. Chromolena odorata (Linn.) Asteraceae H 3 0 0.4 75.00 187.50\r\n9. Parthenium hysterophorus Linn. Compositae H 2 0 0.4 5 0 120.00\r\n10. Prososis juliflora (Sw.) Leguminasae T 1.2 0.2 1.00 5.00\r\n11. Bambusa sp. Graminae T 0.2 0.2 1.00 5.00\r\n12. Sida acuta Burm.f. Bombacaceae H 2 0.2 1.00 5.00\r\n13. Phyllanthus niruri Linn. Ephorbiaceae H 1.8 0.2 10.00 50.00\r\n14. Vernonia sp. Compositae H 3 0.2 9.00 45.00\r\n15. Ziziphus oenoplea (Linn.) Rhamnaceae T 8.4 0.6 15.00 25.00\r\n16. Randia dumetorum Lam. Rubiaceae S 3 0.2 15.00 75.00\r\n17. Lantana camara Linn. Verbenaceae S 3 0 0.8 37.50 46.82\r\n18. Capparis sepiaria Linn. Capparidaceae S 4 0.4 10.00 25.00\r\n19. Azadirachta indica (A. Juss.) Meliaceae T 0.6 0.6 1.00 1.66\r\n20. Zyziphus sp. Rhamnaceae T 1 0.6 1.66 2.76\r\n21. Chloroxylon swietenia DC. Meliaceae S 0.2 0.2 0.2 1.00\r\n22. Dodonaea viscosa (Linn.) Sapindaceae S 6.4 0.6 6.4 10.66\r\n23. Cassia auriculata Linn. Caesalpinaceae S 6.2 0.6 0.8 10.33\r\n24. Eucalyptus sp. Myrtaceae T 0.8 0.2 0.6 1.00\r\n25. Erythoxyllon monogynum Roxb. Erythroxylaceae T 0.6 0.8 1.0 0.75\r\n26. Acacia leucophloea (Roxb.) Willd. Mimosaceae T 1.0 0.2 12.8 5.00\r\n27. Commelina benghalensis Linn. Commelinaceae H 12.8 1.00 4.6 12.80\r\n28. Siegesbeckia orientalis Linn. Asteraceae H 4.6 0.8 4.6 5.75\r\nTable 7 : Floral composition of Marayoor Sandal Provenance (Kerala).\r\nS.No. Plant species Family Type of flora Dens ity Frequency Abundance A/F ratio\r\n1. Santalum album Linn. Santalaceae T 21.4 1.0 21.4 21.40\r\n2. Clausena dentata Oliv. Rutaceae S 2 5 1.0 25.00 25.00\r\n3. Lantana camera Linn. Verbenaceae S 1 6 0.8 2 0 25.00\r\n4. Cassia fistula Linn. Caesalpiniaceae T 0 2 0.2 10.00 50.00\r\n5. Canthium dicoccum (Geartn) Rubiaceae S 1.2 0.4 6.00 15.00\r\n6. Mangifera indica Linn. Anacardiaceae T 0.4 0.4 1.00 2.50\r\n7. Cassia sp. Caesalpiniaceae H 13.6 1.0 13.60 13.60\r\n8. Mallotus philippinensis Muell. Euphorbiaceae S 0 2 0.6 3.33 5.55\r\n9. Atlanta racemosa Rutaceae T 2.8 1.0 2.80 2.80\r\n10. Sida rhomboidea Roxb. Malvaceae H 0 6 0.6 10.00 16.66\r\n11. Cassia tora Linn. Caesalpiniaceae S 0 2 0.4 5.00 12.50\r\n12. Spathodea companulata Beauv. Bignoniaceae T 0.2 0.2 1.00 5.00\r\n13. Tectona grandis L.F. Verbanaceae T 0 1 0.2 5.00 25.00\r\n14. Litsea deccanensis Gamble Lauraceae T 1.4 0.6 2.33 3.83\r\n15. Emblica officinalis Gaertn. Euphorbiaceae T 0.6 0.4 1.55 3.87\r\n16. Hibiscus feculence Malvaceae H 0.6 0.2 3.00 15.00\r\nSundararaj and Sharma 77\r\nWhere: T= Tree, S = Shrub and H= Herb\r\nIn all the six selected sandal provenances density,\r\nfrequency, abundance and A/F ratio of plant species were\r\nrecorded as given below.\r\n(a) Density : In all the selected provenances, sandal\r\ntree has recorded highest density compared to all other\r\nspecies. Among the provenances Javadis and Marayoor have\r\nrecorded highest sandal density of 21.8 and 21.4,\r\nrespectively followed by Bangalore (18) and Chitteri (16).\r\nMandagadde and Thangali provenances have recorded less\r\ndensity of 12.8 and 13.4 respectively.\r\n(b) Frequency : It\'s evident from frequency data of\r\nflora that sandal exhibits highest frequency (1 or 100%) than\r\nany other species.\r\n(c) Abundance : Abundance for all the species has\r\nbeen calculated and from the data it is evident that in all\r\nprovenances, sandal showed the abundance value same as\r\nthat of density. With this it is clear that as all the\r\nprovenances are sandal dominated and homogenous with\r\nsandal it is represented in all sample plots.\r\n(d) A/F ratio: The abundance to frequency ratio\r\nindicated the distribution pattern of species. In general\r\ndistribution of sandal was continuous and recorded highest\r\nA/F ratio among all the tree species in all the provenances\r\nexcept Mandagadde, where in Tectona grandis was recorded\r\nmore than that of sandal.\r\nThe study reveals that in all the six selected sandal\r\nprovenances, there is rich floral diversity of different plant\r\nspecies and all species grows well in association. It is\r\nrecorded that sandal trees which grow in association with\r\nother floral species, the growth and survival rate of sandal\r\ntree is high as compared to the isolated sandal tree. Further\r\nas now-a-days efforts were made to grow sandal throughout\r\nIndia, but the survival rate, growth, wood quality, oil\r\ncontents of sandal tree were recorded very low as compared\r\nto sandal growing in its natural habitat of South India, so\r\nthere is need of more emphasis on scientific studies of soil\r\nquality, climate changes, associated vegetation, pests,\r\nexperimental trials etc. before selecting new habitat for\r\nsandal.\r\nSrinivasan et al., 1992 has documented the brief studies\r\non all aspects of Sandal and also recorded association of\r\nsandal with other plant species. Sharma et al., 2009 has\r\nrecorded 82 different plant species in and around Dholbaha\r\ndam, Punjab. The various workers all over the world has\r\nconducted their studies on the diversity of flora,\r\ndocumented their work and discovered new species. By\r\ndoing all efforts, still there is continuous decline in our\r\nexisting plant species due to developmental activities,\r\nincrease of population and destruction of habitats etc.\r\nTherefore, the efforts are required all over the globe for the\r\nconservation of existing natural or artificial habitats, is the\r\nonly method for survival of biodiversity.','R. Sundararaj* and Gaurav Sharma (2010). Studies on the floral composition in the six selected provenances of Sandal (Santalum album Linnaeus) of South India. Biological Forum — An International Journal, 2(2): 73-77. '),(4722,'128','Essential role of HSP26 in stress tolerance of yeast during ethanolic\r\nfermentation','Indrani Ghosh, Bishwajit Kundu and Ragini Gothalwal','18 DR KUNDU.pdf','',1,'Small heat shock proteins are a conserved protein family with members found in all organisms\r\nanalyzed till date. Hsp26 of yeast Saccharomyces cerevisiae, a member of this family, is a temperature-regulated\r\nchaperone that forms large oligomeric complexes and dissociates into dimer to bind non-native proteins. Though\r\ndetailed studies have been done on structure, regulation and chaperone activity of Hsp26, so far no biological role\r\ncould be attributed in spite of extensive efforts. Here we show that Hsp26 is essential for stress tolerance of\r\nyeast cells during high temperature ethanolic fermentation','small heat shock protein, biological role, chaperone, stress tolerance, ethanol production, high temperature.','Small heat shock proteins are a conserved protein family with members found in all organisms\r\nanalyzed till date. Hsp26 of yeast Saccharomyces cerevisiae, a member of this family, is a temperature-regulated\r\nchaperone that forms large oligomeric complexes and dissociates into dimer to bind non-native proteins. Though\r\ndetailed studies have been done on structure, regulation and chaperone activity of Hsp26, so far no biological role\r\ncould be attributed in spite of extensive efforts. Here we show that Hsp26 is essential for stress tolerance of\r\nyeast cells during high temperature ethanolic fermentation','HSP26 is one of the major small heat shock proteins\r\n(hsp) of the yeast S. cerevisiae and lot of studies have\r\nbeen done to demonstrate its biochemical role. It is expressed\r\nduring stress and at particular stages of development (Kurtz\r\net al., 1986; Jiménez-Martí et al., 2009) shows significant\r\namino acid sequence homology to the small hsps of other\r\nspecies (Susek et al, 1989). The Yeast Hsp26, a 24-subunit\r\ncomplex has been shown to undergo dissociation into dimers\r\nat elevated temperatures and such dissociation is required\r\nfor the efficient interaction with non-native proteins, thus\r\nacting as a temperature regulated molecular chaperon\r\n(Haslbeck et al., 2004). These structural changes are of\r\nfunctional importance as hsp26 is an efficient chaperone\r\nonly at elevated temperatures. Thus, HSP26 is shown to be\r\nan intrinsic temperature sensor for detecting heat shock\r\nconditions (Stromer et al., 2004; Haslbeck et al., 1999).\r\nAnother unusual property studied is their apparent ability\r\nto assemble into high molecular weight aggregates termed\r\n‘heat shock granules’ following their expression under stress\r\nconditions (Bentley et al., 1992). It has been shown not to\r\nbe important in unstressed vegetative cells but is strongly\r\ninduced by heat shock, stationary phase arrest or nitrogen\r\nstarvation (Kurtz et al., 1984; Kurtz et al., 1986; Susek\r\net al., 1990; Aranda et al., 2002). Till now no functional role\r\ncould be attributed to this important hsp. However, it has\r\nbeen reported that the gene is not essential for the\r\nacquisition of thermotolerance in exponential or in stationary\r\nphase cells as well as in providing resistance to ethanol.\r\nMoreover, its role during spore development,\r\nthermoresistance during sporulation, spore germination,\r\nthermoresistance of mature or germinating spores or survival\r\nafter long term storage in stationary phase or as spores in\r\nalso unclear (Petko et al., 1986; Susek et al., 1989). Recently,\r\nanother protein named the ETP1 (Ethanol Tolerance Protein\r\n1) of yeast has been suggested to play a role in ethanolinduced\r\nturnover of the low-affinity hexose transporter\r\nHxt3p for the ethanol-induced transcriptional activation of\r\nEssential role of HSP26 in stress tolerance of yeast during ethanolic\r\nfermentation\r\nIndrani Ghosh*, Bishwajit Kundu** and Ragini Gothalwal*\r\n*Barkatullah Vishwavidyalaya, Bhopal, (M.P.) India\r\n**School of Biological Sciences, IIT Delhi, Hauz Khas, New Delhi, India\r\nABSTRACT : Small heat shock proteins are a conserved protein family with members found in all organisms\r\nanalyzed till date. Hsp26 of yeast Saccharomyces cerevisiae, a member of this family, is a temperature-regulated\r\nchaperone that forms large oligomeric complexes and dissociates into dimer to bind non-native proteins. Though\r\ndetailed studies have been done on structure, regulation and chaperone activity of Hsp26, so far no biological role\r\ncould be attributed in spite of extensive efforts. Here we show that Hsp26 is essential for stress tolerance of\r\nyeast cells during high temperature ethanolic fermentation.\r\nKey words : small heat shock protein, biological role, chaperone, stress tolerance, ethanol production, high temperature.\r\nISSN : 0975-1130\r\nBiological Forum — An International Journal, 2(2): 78-82(2010)\r\nthe ENA1 promoter and heat shock protein genes (HSP12\r\nand HSP26). This again failed to correlate directly the\r\nobserved phenotype to the actual role of HSP26 Snowdon\r\net al., 2009. Cells deficient in cAMP-dependent protein\r\nkinase activity stop growth, arrest in G1, and show\r\nphysiological changes normally associated with nutrient\r\ndeprivation; these changes include the accumulation of\r\ntrehalose and glycogen, enhanced expression of genes like\r\nhsp26, hsp12, ssa3 etc., and increased resistance to heat\r\nstress (Shin et al., 1987; tamai et al., 1994).\r\nAs the small heat shock protein hsp26 has been\r\nconserved for so many years, having no cellular role seemed\r\nunlikely although there could be several possible\r\nexplanations for the lack of a phenotype in the hsp26\r\nnegative mutants. Firstly, the principal role of HSP26 may\r\nbe to promote growth at high temperatures or enhance\r\nthermotolerance but its effect may be too subtle to be\r\ndetected. Secondly, it may be a functional redundancy as\r\nHSP42 shares a high degree of homology with HSP26,\r\nparticularly over a conserved hydrophobic stretch of about\r\n35 amino acids located near the carboxyl terminus of the\r\nprotein. Its expression was up regulated by increase in\r\ntemperature and salt concentration as well as by conditions\r\nof limited growth and overgrowth of cell cultures (Wotten\r\net al., 1996). Interestingly, although hsp26 expression is also\r\nup regulated under all these conditions there are differences\r\nin the response of these two genes to the various conditions\r\nof stress. The function of this highly conserved small HSP\r\nmay be advantageous for growth only under very particular\r\ncircumstances that have not been tested experimentally but\r\nhave been utilized for selection throughout evolution.\r\nS. cerevisiae is well known to have the ability to take\r\nup and ferment a wide range of sugars and is extensively\r\nused in ethanol production; finding the involvement of small\r\nheat shock proteins in stress survival of yeast during high\r\ntemperature ethanolic fermentation will be very useful. Thus,\r\nfinding thermotolerant yeast strain and also attributing a\r\nfunctional role to a highly conserved small hsp (hsp26)\r\nGhosh, Kundu and Gothalwal 79\r\nwould facilitate further development of better industrial\r\nstrains. Though detailed studies have been done on\r\nstructure, regulation and chaperone activity of Hsp26, so\r\nfar no biological role could be attributed in spite of extensive\r\nefforts. Here we show that Hsp26 is essential for stress\r\ntolerance of yeast cells during high temperature ethanolic\r\nfermentation.\r\nMATERIAL AND METHODS\r\nMedia and Growth conditions. For routine culture the\r\nstrains were grown on YPD (1% w/v Yeast extract, 2% w/v\r\npeptone, 2% w/v glucose) at 30 C. The media used for\r\nselection of disruptants was YPDG418 (Geneticin was added\r\nat 200 g/ml concentration after the media was autoclaved\r\nand cooled to 55 C. The diploids were sporulated on\r\npresporulation (1% w/v yeast extract, 2% w/v peptone, 1%\r\nw/v Potassium acetate and 2%w/v agar) and sporulation\r\nmedia (0.5% w/v potassium acetate, 2% w/v agar; Bilinski\r\nand Casey, 1989). Fermentation experiments were carried out\r\nin YPD25 media (1% w/v yeast extract, 2% w/v peptone and\r\n25% w/v glucose) at 38 C.\r\nConstruction of gene specific deletion cassettes.\r\nRoutine DNA manipulations, including plasmid preparation,\r\nsub cloning, agarose electrophoresis and transformation\r\nwere performed by standard methods (Sambrook et al.,1989).\r\nThe dominant resistant module, KanMX4 containing the Kanr\r\ngene of the E. coli transposon Tn 903 and included in the\r\nvector pFA6a-KanMX4 was used to replace the yeast\r\ncoding sequence and to select for S. cerevisiae\r\ntransformants. The method employed to create the deletion\r\ncassettes is based on the polymerase chain reaction (PCR)\r\ntargeting strategy. The deletion cassette contained KanMX4\r\nflanked by 40 bp regions homologues to the target sequence\r\nfrom the promoter and the terminator of the yeast gene to\r\nbe disrupted. The cassettes were generated by PCR with\r\nTaq DNA polymerase and Vent DNA polymerase using\r\npFA6a-KanMX4 as template. For each ORF a pair of primers\r\nwas designed to contain 40 nucleotides at the 5’ end\r\nhomologues to the target sequence followed by 20\r\nnucleotides at the 3\'end homologues to pFA6a-KanMX4\r\nMCS. The deletion cassettes were designed to replace at\r\nleast 80% of the target ORF (Wach et al., 1994).\r\nCloning strategy for hsp26 disruption with KanMX4\r\nmodule:\r\nAmplification of a fragment was done with H26-S primer\r\n(5\'-ACATCCACAACCAACGAAG-3\') and H26-A3 (5\'-GAGGA\r\nTCCTGTTTTAATAGAGATCTGATATAT-3\'). A second\r\nfragment corresponding to the other end of the ORF was\r\namplified with H26-S3 (5\' CGAATTCTGGCTCTATAGTGTTGT\r\nCC-3\') and H26-A1 (5\' AACGGTCATATATCGAAGCCAAAG-\r\n3\'). Plasmid pFA6a-KanMX4 was digested with BamH1 and\r\nEcoR1 to yield a fragment of 1.476 Kb. The first fragment\r\nof hsp26 was digested with BamH1 and the second fragment\r\nof hsp26 was digested with EcoR1. Then all the three\r\nfragments were ligated and PCR amplified using hap26-S\r\nand hsp26-A1. Transformants were confirmed by restriction\r\ndigestion (Fig. 1).\r\nFig. 1.\r\n80 Ghosh, Kundu and Gothalwal\r\nCloning strategy for hsp42 disruption with KanMX4\r\nmodule:\r\nHsp42 was PCR amplified from yeast genomic DNA with\r\nprimers H42-S (5\'-GTAGTGTACTGTCCAAACT-3\') and H42-\r\nA (5\'-TTTGGCTAATGGTGGTCTCGAC-3\') and then digested\r\nwith EcoRV. A band of 276bp corresponding to 652 to 927\r\nbp of hsp42 ORF was gel purified. Plasmid pFA6a-KanMX4\r\nwas digested with Sma1 in presence of ligase buffer and\r\nhsp42 gene fragment was added along with ligase enzyme.\r\nTransformants were confirmed by restriction digestion\r\n(Fig. 1).\r\nTransformation of Yeast Cell. Transformations of yeast\r\ncells were performed by a procedure modified from Ito et.al,\r\n(1983). Transformed cells were grown at 30 C in YPD for 12\r\nhours and spread on YPD plates containing 200 g/ml\r\ngeneticin. To purify transformants from background each\r\nlarge colony was streaked out on fresh YPDG418 plates.\r\nOnly those clones which grew after the double selection\r\nwere analyzed further.\r\nVerification of yeast transformants. Correct\r\nreplacements of the target gene at the genomic locus were\r\nverified by analytical PCR. Genomic DNA of the disrupted\r\nstrain was used as template and appropriate primers (as\r\ngiven before) were used to check the two junctions\r\ncorresponding to the replacement. Genomic DNA of wild\r\ntype was used as PCR control and the predictable sizes of\r\nthe disrupted PCR products in comparison to wild type were\r\neasily differentiated (Fig. 2).\r\nFig. 2.\r\nMicromanipulation to get haploids having various\r\ndisruptions:\r\nThe diploid was sporulated and then the tetrads were\r\ndissected to obtain a segregation pattern among the spore\r\nclones for G418. Mating type was determined for the spore\r\nclones and then the type of disruption obtained was\r\nconfirmed by nested and semi nested PCR using primers\r\npreviously mentioned.\r\nGrowth experiment. Strains were pre grown in YPD at\r\n38 C for – 16 hours. Then the disruptants and the wild type\r\nwere equally mixed for the initial OD600 to be 0.1. The\r\ngrowth was monitored at various time points and plated by\r\n10-fold serial dilution for percent survival (Fig. 3).\r\nFig. 3.\r\nFermentation analysis. Strains were pre-grown in YPD\r\nat 38 C for –16 hours. They were re-inoculated after\r\ndisruptants were equalized and mixed with wild type\r\naccording to 0.5% wet weight in YPD25 and incubated at 38\r\nC for ~50 hours. Weight loss was monitored to get the\r\npercentage alcohol produced and simultaneously 10-fold\r\nserial dilutions were prepared and plated at different time\r\npoints for percentage survival of the mutants (Fig.3B).\r\nRESULTS AND DISCUSSION\r\nIt has been shown that neither the deletion nor the\r\ndisruption of the unique hsp26 gene in yeast has any\r\ndetectable effect on the ability of cells to grow and develop\r\nat various temperatures or to withstand the adverse effects\r\nof heat at any point during the lifecycle. Deletion of the\r\nhsp26 gene in hsp104 mutant background has been shown\r\nto have no effect on basal or induced thermotolerance\r\n(Sanchez et al., 1993). Cells lacking constitutive HSP70\r\nexhibit a poor growth rate and are known to over-express\r\nHSP26 and some other HSPs. HSP26 over expression\r\nmodulates the growth rate of yeast cells lacking constitutive\r\nHSP70, similar to mammalian cells (Unno et al., 1998). There\r\nare several possible explanations for the lack of a phenotype\r\nin the hsp26- mutants. First the primary role of hsp26 may\r\nbe to promote growth at high temperatures or enhance\r\nthermotolerance but its effect may be too subtle to be\r\ndetected (Petko and Lindquist, 1986). Secondly it may have\r\na functional redundancy. Overlapping functions have been\r\nfound for members of the hsp70 and hsp84 gene families,\r\nbut only for closely related genes (Craig and Jacobsen,\r\n1984). Keeping this in mind we wanted to see the effect in\r\npresence and absence of hsp42 which is regulated similarly\r\nby a range of stress conditions. HSP42 shares a high degree\r\nGhosh, Kundu and Gothalwal 81\r\nof homology with HSP26 over a conserved hydrophobic\r\nstretch of about 35 amino acids located near the carboxyl\r\nterminus of the protein (Wotten et al.,1996). Its expression\r\nis up regulated by increase in temperature and salt\r\nconcentration as well as by conditions of limited growth\r\nand overgrowth of cell cultures (Wotten et al., 1996).\r\nInterestingly although hsp26 expression is also up regulated\r\nunder all these conditions there are differences in the\r\nresponse of these two genes to the various conditions of\r\nstress. The function of this highly conserved small HSP\r\nmay be advantageous for growth only under very particular\r\ncircumstances that have not been tested experimentally but\r\nhave been utilized for selection throughout evolution. As S.\r\ncerevisiae is well known to have the ability to take up and\r\nferment a wide range of sugars and is extensively used in\r\nethanol production; we went on to check the role of hsp26\r\nand hsp42 during ethanolic fermentation Considering the\r\nabove-mentioned facts to be true, question remains as to\r\nwhy then hsp26 has remained conserved for more than a\r\nbillion years as separate, abundantly induced protein in all\r\neukaryotes.\r\nGene disruption is a powerful tool for determining the\r\nbiological function of proteins encoded by uncharacterized\r\nORFs. Information about the biological function can be\r\ninferred by monitoring the fitness of the resulting deletant\r\nstrain under a variety of selective growth conditions.\r\nSimultaneous culture of a particular deletant along with wild\r\ntype or other deletion mutants invokes a competitive\r\nenvironment, rendering subtle differences to show up, which\r\notherwise would have been overlooked (Shoemaker et al.,\r\n1996). Ethanol fermentation is a natural phenomena occurring\r\nin yeast and hsp26 may be playing some role along with its\r\nhomologue hsp42. Keeping this in view we went on to check\r\nthe role of hsp26 in mixed population during ethanolic\r\nfermentation.\r\nThe haploids having ura+ background were disrupted\r\nwith kanMX4 cassette to create single and double\r\ndisruptants at the hsp26 and hsp42 locus. These disruptants\r\ndid not result in any change in the growth phenotype. It\r\nwas confirmed that the mating type does not cause any\r\nchange in growth rate of the disruptants. It has been earlier\r\nreported (Petko & Lindquist, 1986) that hsp26 is expressed\r\nat very low levels during exponential growth at 23°C or\r\n37°C, and that it is induced not only after heat shock but\r\nalso when the cells approach stationary phase and under\r\nconditions of starvation and sporulation. We studied the\r\neffect of hsp26 disruption during stationary phase and found\r\nthat hsp26 plays no direct role in survival of cells during\r\nstationary phase.\r\nA vast array of treatments can induce synthesis of hsps\r\n(For review, see Nover et al, 1984). Among these, exposure\r\nto heat and ethanol have been shown to induce tolerance\r\nto both in many organisms (Neidhardt et al., 1984; Plesset\r\net.al., 1982; Li, 1983). We tested the ability of the mutants\r\nand the wild type to survive in these stress conditions in\r\nmixed culture fermentations both at 30°C and 38°C. While\r\nwe found no effect at 30 C, a dramatic effect was observed\r\nat 38 C in mixed culture population, in the form of nearly\r\n40-50 fold decrease in the survival of hsp26 disruptants as\r\ncompared to wild type in 48 hours. Results were confirmed\r\nby repeating the experiment thrice [Fig. 3]. Therefore, through\r\nthese experimental results we conclude that hsp26 does play\r\na crucial role in the survival of yeast during high temperature\r\nfermentation.\r\nThis is in contrast to earlier reports where hsp26 has\r\nbeen shown to have no significant role (Susek and Lindquist,\r\n1989; Petko and Lindquist, 1986). These results also explain\r\nthe highly conserved pattern of expression of hsp26\r\nindicating the involvement of small hsps in thermotolerance.\r\nFig. 1 Cloning strategy for gene disruptions using\r\nKanMX4 module: (A) Wild type hsp26 was digested with\r\nBamH1 and EcoR1 to get 2 fragments of size 368bp and\r\n178bp resp. pFA6a with KanMX4 module was digested with\r\nBamH1 and EcoR1 to get a third fragment of size 1.4kb.The\r\nthree fragments were ligated and transformed into yeast for\r\ndisruption with homologues recombination. The disruption\r\nin the transformants showing successful integration was\r\nconfirmed by PCR using hsp26 S1-KanMX4 A1 and hsp26\r\nA1-KanMX4 neo1 primer pairs. (B) Similarly wild type hsp42\r\ngene was digested with EcoRV and pFA6a with KanMX4\r\nmodule was digested with Sma1 in presence of ligase buffer\r\nand then hsp42 fragment was added for ligation. Successful\r\nintegration of marker will give PCR products using hsp42 A\r\nand KanMX4 A1, KanMX4 neo1 and hsp42 S primer pairs.\r\nFig. 2 Agarose gel showing DNA products generated by\r\ndiagnostic PCRs for various disruptions of hsp26 and hsp42:\r\nlane 1 and lane 14 are lambda Hind III marker ; lane 2, IG12\r\nwt: hsp26 A1-hsp26 S1(1.223 kb) ; lane 3, IG 16(8C) hsp 26\r\n: hsp26 A1-KanMX4 neo1 (0.561bp) ; lane 4, IG 16 (8C)\r\nhsp26 : hsp26 S1-MX4A1 (0.951bp) ; lane5, IG15 hsp42 :\r\nhsp26 A1-hsp26 S1 (1.223kb) ; lane6, IG17(5C) hsp26 &\r\nhsp42 : hsp26 A1-KanMX4 neo1 (0.561bp); lane7 IG17 (5C)\r\nhsp26 & hsp42 : hsp26 S1-MX4 A1 (0.951bp); lane 8, IG12\r\nwt: hsp42 A-hsp42 S (1.17 kb); lane 9, IG 16(8C) hsp26\r\n:hsp42 A-hsp42 S (1.17kb); lane 10, IG15 hsp42 : hsp42 AMX4\r\nA1 (1.143kb); lane11, IG15 hsp42 : hsp42 S-KanMX4\r\nneo1 (3.7 kb); lane 12 IG17(5C) ) hsp26 & hsp42 : hsp42\r\nA-KanMX4 A1(1.143kb); lane 13, IG17(5C) hsp26 & hsp42\r\n: hsp42S-KanMX4 neo1(3.7kb).\r\nFig. 3 showing survival of mutants in mixed culture\r\nduring growth at 38° C in mixed culture growth of IG15-\r\nhsp42 with IG12 wt; IG17 (5C)-hsp42 & hsp26 with IG12\r\nwt; IG16 (8C)-hsp26 with IG12 wt. (B) Percentage of mutant\r\nsurvival in mixed culture fermentation at 38° C in mixed\r\nculture fermentation of IG15-hsp42 with IG12 wt; IG17 (5C)-\r\nhsp42 & hsp26 with IG12 wt; IG16(8C)-hsp26with IG12 wt.','Indrani Ghosh, Bishwajit Kundu and Ragini Gothalwal (2010). Essential role of HSP26 in stress tolerance of yeast during ethanolic fermentation. Biological Forum — An International Journal, 2(2): 78-82. '),(4723,'128','Production and partial purification of xylanase from a new\r\nthermophilic isolate','Dinesh Kumar, Rachna Verma, Priyanka Sharma, Ankush Rana, Ruby Sharma , Chandan Prakash and Tek Chand Bhalla','19 DR DINESH.pdf','',1,'Ten thermophilic xylanase producing microbes were isolated from degraded wood, cow feed\r\nsample, sugarcane bagasse and soil sample on potato dextrose agar plates, pH 5.5 at 40°C. These isolates\r\nwere screened for xylanase production and the hyper-xylanase producer isolate (120U/ml) from cow feed\r\nsample (Bacillus pumilus MTCC 8964) was selected for further study. Maximum production of xylanase with\r\nthis isolate was observed in late log phase at pH 6.0 with 1% inoculum at 40oC. Maltose (1%) and yeast\r\nextract (1%) were selected as best carbon and nitrogen source respectively for xylanase production by this\r\norganism. High activity of enzyme was recorded with acetate buffer at pH 6.0 and 60°C (241.4U/ml). Molecular\r\nmass of this enzyme was estimated to 14.3KDa with SDS-PAGE after gel exclusion chromatography.','Thermophilic xylanase, Bacillus pumilus MTCC 8964, production optimization, partial purification','In conclusion, the results obtained from the present\r\nwork indicates significant amount of xylanase production\r\nfrom a new isolate of B. pumilus MTCC 8964 using selective\r\ngrowth and nutrient conditions. The xylanase produced by\r\nthe test organism owing to its broad activity, temperature\r\nrange and cellulase free nature seem to be of considerable\r\nuse in paper and pulp industry. Detailed characterization of\r\nthe enzyme is in process.','available in nature and waste residues contain up to 40%\r\nhemicellulose formed by pentose sugars (Magge and\r\nKosaric, 1985). There is a great interest in the enzymatic\r\nhydrolysis of xylan, the major constituent of hemicelluloses,\r\ndue to possible applications in feedstock, fuel, chemical\r\nproduction and paper manufacturing (Coughlan and\r\nHazelwood, 1993). â-1,4 xylanases (1,4 â -xylanxylanohydrolase,\r\nE.C. 3.2.1.8) catalyzes the hydrolysis of\r\nxylan to xylo-oligosaccharides and xylose. A variety of\r\nmicroorganisms, including bacteria, yeasts and filamentous\r\nfungi have been reported to produce xylanases (Coughlan\r\nand Hazelwood, 1993; Nascimento et al., 2002; Poorma and\r\nPrema 2007; Bakri et al., 2008). The use of cheaper\r\nlignocellulosic residues viz. wheat bran, wheat straw, corn\r\ncob and sugarcane bagasse can be used as growth\r\nsubstrates in culture to produce xylanase and also to replace\r\nthe xylan as a inducer for cost reduction in production.\r\nXylanase obtained from thermophilic microorganisms have\r\nunique physico-chemical and catalytical properties with its\r\nmajor application in paper and pulp industry for prebleaching\r\nof Kraft pulp (Bajpai, 1999; Beg et al., 2001;\r\nChristov et al., 1999). Other applications include; extraction\r\nof coffee, plant oils and starch, improvement of nutritional\r\nproperties of agricultural silage and grain feed, and\r\nclarification of fruit juices in combination with pectinase\r\nand cellulase, and recovery of fermentable sugars from\r\nhemicelluloses (Kuhad and Singh, 1993; Lama et al., 2004;\r\nWang and Saddler, 1992).\r\nProduction and partial purification of xylanase from a new\r\nthermophilic isolate\r\nDinesh Kumar, Rachna Verma*, Priyanka Sharma*, Ankush Rana*, Ruby Sharma* , Chandan\r\nPrakash* and Tek Chand Bhalla**\r\nAbhilashi Institute of Life Sciences (AILS), Tanda, Ner Chowk, Mandi (H.P.)\r\n*Shoolini Institute of Life Sciences & Business Management (SILB), Solan (H.P.)\r\n**Department of Biotechnology, Himachal Pradesh University, Shimla (H.P.)\r\nABSTRACT : Ten thermophilic xylanase producing microbes were isolated from degraded wood, cow feed\r\nsample, sugarcane bagasse and soil sample on potato dextrose agar plates, pH 5.5 at 40°C. These isolates\r\nwere screened for xylanase production and the hyper-xylanase producer isolate (120U/ml) from cow feed\r\nsample (Bacillus pumilus MTCC 8964) was selected for further study. Maximum production of xylanase with\r\nthis isolate was observed in late log phase at pH 6.0 with 1% inoculum at 40oC. Maltose (1%) and yeast\r\nextract (1%) were selected as best carbon and nitrogen source respectively for xylanase production by this\r\norganism. High activity of enzyme was recorded with acetate buffer at pH 6.0 and 60°C (241.4U/ml). Molecular\r\nmass of this enzyme was estimated to 14.3KDa with SDS-PAGE after gel exclusion chromatography.\r\nKeywords: Thermophilic xylanase, Bacillus pumilus MTCC 8964, production optimization, partial purification\r\nISSN : 0975-1130\r\nBiological Forum — An International Journal, 2(2): 83-87(2010)\r\nBacterial xylanase is generally induced by the\r\nmicroorganisms cultivated in medium containing xylan or\r\nxylan-hydrolysate as a carbon source (Fogarty and Ward,\r\n1973; Simpson, 1956). Considering the industrial importance\r\nof xylanase, the objective of present study was to evaluate\r\nthe isolation, production and partial purification of a\r\nthermostable xylanase obtained from a new thermophilic\r\nstrain Bacillus pumilus MTCC 8964.\r\nMATERIAL AND METHODS\r\nIsolation and screening of microorganism\r\nSamples of degraded wood, sugarcane bagasse, cow feed\r\nand soil sample were collected from various sites of Solan\r\nand Shimla (H.P.), India, in sample containers and stored at\r\n4oC for further processing. Samples were enriched in nutrient\r\nmedium supplemented with xylan (0.5%) at 40oC for 24h at\r\npH 5.5 in an incubator shaker at 135rpm and plated on\r\nPDA containing oat-spelt xylan (0.5% w/v) at 40oC for 24h.\r\nAll the isolates were screened for xylanase release ability\r\nin production medium containing potato 5.0%, dextrose\r\n2.0%, yeast extract 0.5%, oat spelt xylan 0.5% (pH 5.5) and\r\nincubated at 40oC for 48h at 150rpm. Only the hyperxylanase\r\nproducer isolate (X1) was selected for further\r\noptimization and characterized according to the method\r\ngiven by Harrigan (1998).\r\nXylanase assay\r\nThe supernatant obtained after centrifugation of\r\nfermentation broth at 5000rpm for 15 min at 4oC was used\r\nas a crude enzyme. Xylanase activity was determined by\r\n84 Kumar, Verma, Sharma, Rana, Sharma, Prakash and Bhalla\r\nmeasuring the reducing sugar by the dinitrosalicylic acid\r\n(DNS) method (Miller, 1959) using D-xylose as the standard.\r\nThe enzyme assay was carried out at 40oC using 0.5%\r\n(w/v) oat spelt xylan (50mM Acetate buffer, pH 6.0) as\r\nsubstrate. One unit of xylanase activity was expressed as\r\n1ìg of reducing sugar (xylose equivalent) released/ml/min\r\nunder assay conditions.\r\nOptimization of xylanase production and activity. The\r\nBacillus pumilus MTCC 8964 was cultivated in 50ml of\r\nproduction medium with 1% (v/v) inoculum at different pH\r\n(4.0-10.0) and temperatures (30oC-70oC) for 48h under\r\nstandard shaking conditions to assay the enzyme produced.\r\nEffect of carbon and nitrogen sources on production was\r\nstudied by substituting potato extract (5%) and dextrose\r\n(2%) in the production medium with various synthetic and\r\nnatural carbon sources (1% w/v) and yeast extract with\r\norganic and inorganic nitrogen sources (1% w/v) to assess\r\ntheir suitability to promote the xylanase by this\r\nmicroorganism. Xylanase production was studied upto\r\n7 days in production medium supplemented with 0.5% oat\r\nspelt xylan using 1% (v/v) inoculum of 24h old culture (OD\r\nat 540 nm = 1.0) at 40oC in a incubator shaker (Scigenics\r\nPvt. Ltd., India) at 155rpm. Xylanase activity was assayed\r\nat different pH of buffer (50mM) ranging from 5.0-11.0 and\r\nat various temperatures (30-70°C) to determine the optimal\r\nactivity under reaction conditions.\r\nPartial purification and molecular mass estimation\r\nTo 100ml of crude xylanase solution previously filtered\r\nthrough 0.45μm filter (Sartorious, Germany), pre chilled\r\nethanol was added slowly up to 70% saturation with gentle\r\nstirring and left overnight at 4°C. The precipitate formed\r\nwere collected by centrifugation at 10,000g for 30min and\r\ndissolved in 1 ml of buffer (50mM Acetate, pH 6.0). The\r\nenzyme sample was loaded on to gel exclusion column (KT\r\n30, Bangalore Genei) and eluted with the same buffer.\r\nProtein fractions (OD at 260nm) were collected and pooled\r\ntogether and used further for molecular mass estimation by\r\nShi and Jackowski (1998) method. Molecular mass of the\r\npartially purified enzyme was calculated by using low\r\nmolecular weight calibration kit of Bangalore Genei, India.\r\nRESULTS AND DISCUSSION\r\nTen thermophilic bacteria were isolated from various samples\r\ncollected from different sites around Solan and Shimla\r\ndistricts of Himachal Pradesh, India (Table 1). Growth was\r\nobserved in the plates and colonies which degraded xylan\r\nwere detected by halo zones around them. The isolates\r\n(X1) obtained from cow feed samples produced maximum\r\namount of enzyme during screening and was further\r\ncharacterized (Table 2) on the basis of morphological,\r\nbiochemical and physiological characteristics as per the\r\nmethods of Harrigan (1998). This isolate was found to be\r\nrod shaped, spore former and non-motile It was facultative\r\nthermophile growing at temperatures of 30-45oC and\r\nidentified as Bacillus pumilus MTCC 8964 by Microbial\r\nType Culture Collection & Gene Bank (MTCC), Institute of\r\nMicrobial Technology (IMTECH) Chandigarh, India.. There\r\nare also reports on isolation of xylanase producing\r\nmicroorganism from baggase (Rezende et al., 2002) and soil\r\n(Nascimento et al., 2002; Kuhad et al., 2006).\r\nTable 1 : Screening of microorganisms for xylanase production at 40oC.\r\nSample habitat Isolate No. Xylanase activity (U/ml)\r\nCow feed X1X2 40.00± 0.1006.00± 0.100\r\nDegraded wood X3X4X5X6 3.30± 0.1001.60± 0.10026.9± 0.20017.6± 0.100\r\nSoil X7X8 4.47± 0.08530.1± 0.025\r\nSugarcane baggase X9X10 1.27± 0.08520.2± 0.025\r\n*One unit of xylanase activity was defined as the amount of enzyme required to liberate 1μg of xylose/ml/min under assay conditions.\r\nTable 2 :Morphological and biochemical characteristics\r\nof Bacillus pumilus MTCC 8964.\r\nMorphological characteristics*\r\nConfiguration Circular\r\nSurface Mucoid\r\nPigment Cream\r\nOpacity Opaque\r\nGram’s reaction Positive\r\nCell shape Long rod\r\nSpore Positive\r\nShape Ellipsoidal\r\nArrangement Filamentous\r\nMotility Non-motile\r\nBiochemical tests Results\r\nIndole test Negative\r\nMethyl test Negative\r\nVoges Proskauer test Negative\r\nCasein hydrolysis Positive\r\nStarch hydrolysis Negative\r\nCatalase test Positive\r\nOxidase test Positive\r\nAcid from glucose Positive\r\nAcid from lactose Positive\r\nAcid from sucrose Positive\r\n*Morphological tests were performed in the laboratory and other\r\ntests were carried out at MTCC, IMTECH, Chandigarh, India.\r\nKumar, Verma, Sharma, Rana, Sharma, Prakash and Bhalla 85\r\nThe organism secreted xylanase at broad range of\r\ntemperature and pH. Temperature has profound effect on\r\nxylanase production. Maximum production was observed at\r\n40oC (43.85U/ml) (Fig. 1). Optimum xylanase production was\r\nreported earlier at 37oC with wheat bran (Battan et al., 2006).\r\nThe isolate had shown maximum growth and production at\r\npH 6.0(113.20U/ml) (Fig. 2). Kuhad et al. (2006) observed\r\nmaximum production of xylanase by Bacillus sp. RPP-1 at\r\npH 7.0.\r\nFig 1. Production of xylanase by Bacillus pumilus MTCC 8964\r\nat different pH of medium [After 48h of incubation at 40oC]\r\nFig. 2. Production of xylanse by Bacillus pumilus MTCC 8964 at\r\ndifferent temperatures [After 48h incubation in production\r\nmedium at pH 6.0]\r\nThe Bacillus pumilus MTCC 8964 utilized all carbon\r\nsources tested (Table 3) and induced highest level of\r\nxylanase production with maltose (60.20U/ml) followed by\r\nsaw dust and cellulose filter paper. The use of purified xylan\r\nas an inducer increases the cost of enzyme production. For\r\nthis, reason, different lignocellulosic residues, can be used\r\nas growth substrates in cultures to produce xylanases (Reis\r\net al., 2003).\r\nOf the various organic nitrogen sources tested, yeast\r\nextract (128.07U/ml) was found to be the best nitrogen source\r\nfor xylanase production from the organism. Very low level\r\nof enzyme was produced in the presence of inorganic\r\nnitrogen (Table 3). Beef extract and peptone were similarly\r\nreported earlier the best nitrogen source for xylanase\r\nproduction (Kheng and Omar, 2005). Similar results were\r\nobserved for xylanase production by Bacillus sp. RPP-\r\n1(Kuhad et al., 2006). As, some amount enzyme is required\r\nto hydrolyse natural substrates before their entry in to the\r\ncells, and this could be the reason for low levels of xylanase\r\nproduction by this organism in natural carbon and nitrogen\r\nsources. However, organic nitrogen sources are generally\r\nreported better than inorganic nitrogen sources for xylanase\r\nproduction by microorganisms (Kuhad et al., 2006). There\r\nare also reports on use of xylan (Lopez et al., 1998),\r\nsoyameal waste (Heck et al., 2002) and rice bran (Virupakshi\r\net al., 2005) as a substrate for the xylanase production by\r\nBacillus spp.\r\nTable 3 : Production of xylanase by Bacillus pumilus\r\nMTCC 8964 in the presence of various carbon and nitrogen\r\nsources.\r\nCarbon source (1% w/v) Xylanase activity(U/ml)\r\nDextrose 42.1 ± 0.050\r\nMaltose 60.2 ± 0.095\r\nXylose 39.65 ± 0.125\r\nWheat bran 36.23 ± 0.0650\r\nSaw dust 48.37 ± 0.085\r\nFilter paper 45.35 ± 0.025\r\nNitrogen source (1% w/v)\r\nUrea 95.0 ± 0.100\r\nPeptone 107.4 ± 0.100\r\nYeast extract 128.0 ± 0.050\r\nAmmonium nitrate 69.6 ± 0.100\r\nAmmonium sulphate 62.0 ± 0.100\r\nThe time course of xylanase production was studied in\r\nshake flasks using under optimized condition. Enzyme was\r\nassayed after every 4h. Xylanase production increased\r\nexponentially up to 48 h (158U/ml) with optimum production\r\nat late log phase and had shown slight decrease in activity\r\nup to 72 h of incubation (Fig. 3). Maximum xylanase\r\nproduction was achieved in 72 h with Bacillus pumilus ASH\r\n(Battan et al., 2006).\r\nFig. 3. Time course of xylanase production by Bacillus pumilus\r\nMTCC 8964 at 40oC [The optical density and xylanase activity\r\nin the supernatant were determined at regular intervals of 4h\r\nup to 24h and afterwards 8h intervals up to 72h]\r\n86 Kumar, Verma, Sharma, Rana, Sharma, Prakash and Bhalla\r\nEnzyme activity was assayed in the presence of different\r\nrange of buffers (50mM). The enzyme exhibited a broad pH\r\nprofile (5.0-11.0) for the hydrolysis of oat spelt xylan (Fig.\r\n4). The optimum pH for the activity of xylanase was 6.0\r\n(220.6U/ml) and xylanolytic activity decreased remarkably\r\nafter pH 11.0. However, the optimum activity was recorded\r\nearlier at pH 8.0 (Sharma and Bajaj, 2005). The maximum\r\nactivity of xylanase of Bacillus pumilus MTCC 8964 was\r\nobserved at 60ÚC (241.4U/ml) and decreased with increase\r\nin temperature to 70oC (Fig. 5). There was a gradual increase\r\nin activity from 50-60°C and considerable decrease below\r\nand above these temperatures.\r\nFig. 4. Xylanase activity at different pH of assay buffer [The pH\r\nof the reaction buffer was altered using Acetate buffer 50mM\r\n(pH5.0-6.0); Tris HCl 50mM (pH 7.0-9.0) and Glycine-NaOH\r\n(pH 10.0) at 40oC]\r\nFig. 5. Effect of temperature on xylanase activity [Enzyme\r\nreaction was carried out at different temperatures under assay\r\nconditions at pH 6.0]\r\nThe solvent precipitation steps were carried out at 4°C\r\nand the enzyme migrated as a single band on SDS-PAGE\r\n(Fig. 6). The apparent molecular mass of the partially purified\r\nenzyme was very low (14.3KDa). It has been reported that\r\nsolvent precipitation yields a product of higher purity and\r\nactivity than does salt precipitation.\r\nFig. 6. SDS-PAGE of partially purified xylanase after gel\r\nexclusion chromatography [Lane 1 and 5, protein molecular\r\nmarker; lane 2 and 3, crude enzyme; lane 4, ethanol\r\nprecipitated enzyme]','Dinesh Kumar, Rachna Verma, Priyanka Sharma, Ankush Rana, Ruby Sharma , Chandan Prakash and Tek Chand Bhalla (2010). Production and partial purification of xylanase from a new thermophilic isolate. Biological Forum — An International Journal, 2(2): 83-87. '),(4724,'128','Antifertility effects of crude different of Adiantum lunulatum Burm. on\r\nReproductive Organs of male albino rats.','D.K. Bhatia, A.K. Sharma, P.C. Pathania and Naveen Chandra Khanduri','20 DR BHATIA.pdf','',1,'Effects of crude extract, both alcoholic and decoction of whole plant of Adiantum lunulatum Burm. was\r\nobserved on the reproductive structures of male albino rat after the oral administration of 100 mg/kg, 250 mg/kg;\r\nand 500mg/kg b.w. for 30, 60, 90 days respectively. A dose and duration dependent effects on testis, epididymis, vas\r\ndeferens and accessory reproductive organs of the rats were observed. The treatment resulted in deformation in\r\nthe germ cells of testis Leydig\'s cell were atrophied. No spermatozoa could be seen in the seminiferous tubules\r\nand were filled either with edematous fluid or degenerated cellular debris.','Adiantum lunulatum, alcoholic extract, decoction, albino rats.','Effects of crude extract, both alcoholic and decoction of whole plant of Adiantum lunulatum Burm. was\r\nobserved on the reproductive structures of male albino rat after the oral administration of 100 mg/kg, 250 mg/kg;\r\nand 500mg/kg b.w. for 30, 60, 90 days respectively. A dose and duration dependent effects on testis, epididymis, vas\r\ndeferens and accessory reproductive organs of the rats were observed. The treatment resulted in deformation in\r\nthe germ cells of testis Leydig\'s cell were atrophied. No spermatozoa could be seen in the seminiferous tubules\r\nand were filled either with edematous fluid or degenerated cellular debris.','The search for agents of plants origin capable of\r\nregulating the female and male fertility is as old as the human\r\ncivilization and reference to them could be found in the\r\nancient texts of Ayurveda and other Indian system of\r\nMedicine. The ever increasing population of the world at\r\nan alarming rate has led to intense the research efforts to\r\ndiscover novel compounds from the plant kingdom to control\r\nthe fertility. The folklore medicine of primitive people\r\nfrequently included a large number of plants said to be\r\npotent contraceptives and abortifacients. Some of these\r\nplants might have been included, among folklore. Medicines\r\nas a result of trial and error observations while for other\r\nthere may be no reasonable basis. There is a need to verify\r\nthese claims. A large number of plants have been tested\r\nthroughout the world for their possible fertility regulating\r\nproperties, very few plants however, have been studied for\r\ntheir possible male antifertility efficacy. Therefore, there exists\r\na tremendous scope for carrying out research in the area of\r\nmale fertility regulation to develop a cheaper and safer herbal\r\noral contraceptive pill. On the basis of folklore and\r\nexperimental data the following authors, Kirtikar and Basu\r\n(1935); de Laszlo and Henswas (1954), Bhatia et al.\r\n2004;Joseph 2001;Murugan, 2002;Lohiya and Goyal,1992;\r\nGhosh, 2002 have reported many indigenous plants having\r\nfertility regulating properties. However, no work on fern\r\nspecies, otherwise occurring commonly appears to have been\r\nundertaken. In the present work Adiantum lunulatum have\r\nbeen selected for exploring their possible male antifertility\r\nactivity using male albino rats.\r\nMATERIALS AND METHODS\r\nPlant Material: Adiantum lunulatum Burm fern was\r\ncollected from the Mussoorie hills and Siwalik hill ranges of\r\nDehradun (U.K.). Their proper identification was done by\r\nAntifertility effects of crude different of Adiantum lunulatum Burm. on\r\nReproductive Organs of male albino rats.\r\nD.K. Bhatia, A.K. Sharma*, P.C. Pathania** and Naveen Chandra Khanduri***\r\nDeptt. of Zoology, Govt. Degree College Karanprayag, Chamoli\r\n*ICFRE, Dehradun\r\n** Deptt. of Entomology, Punjab Agricultural University, Ludhiana\r\n***Deptt. of Zoology, Govt. PG College, Augustmuni Rudraprayag\r\nAbstract : Effects of crude extract, both alcoholic and decoction of whole plant of Adiantum lunulatum Burm. was\r\nobserved on the reproductive structures of male albino rat after the oral administration of 100 mg/kg, 250 mg/kg;\r\nand 500mg/kg b.w. for 30, 60, 90 days respectively. A dose and duration dependent effects on testis, epididymis, vas\r\ndeferens and accessory reproductive organs of the rats were observed. The treatment resulted in deformation in\r\nthe germ cells of testis Leydig\'s cell were atrophied. No spermatozoa could be seen in the seminiferous tubules\r\nand were filled either with edematous fluid or degenerated cellular debris.\r\nKey works : Adiantum lunulatum, alcoholic extract, decoction, albino rats.\r\nISSN : 0975-1130\r\nBiological Forum — An International Journal, 2(2): 88-93(2010)\r\nthe taxonomists. Voucher specimens of the collections made,\r\nwere preserved. The collected ferns were shade dried,\r\npowdered and stored in air-tight containers for further\r\nprocessing to obtain decoction and alcoholic extract for\r\nadministration to the test animals.\r\nWeighed amount of plant (Adiantum lunulatum) shade\r\ndried, powdered of whole plant were mixed with measured\r\namount of water and boiled to reduce the volume to one\r\nfourth of original volume of water. This henceforth was\r\ndesignated as decoction (WHO Protocol, 1978, 1983) Link\r\n1978, Hunter and Recht 1979 administered to test animal\r\nwith the help of a metallic feeding needle called cannula\r\n(Khanna & Chaudhury, 1968).\r\nAnimals: The studies were conducted on Swiss albino\r\nmale rats(Rattus rattus nervegicus) Fertility assessment\r\nstudies were undertaken in Swiss albino female rats. They\r\nwere statistically grouped by randomized design and\r\nassigned to 20 groups of 10 animals each. They were\r\nacclimatized to laboratory conditions for 15 days prior to\r\nthe commencement of the treatment. The rats were kept in\r\nopen air cages (60 × 45 × 45 cm) at room temperature. The\r\nrats were fed standard rodent pellet diet (Hindustan Lever\r\nLimited) and water was allowed ad libitum (Edmond, 1950)\r\nDecoction: Weighed amounts of plant power were mixed\r\nwith measured amount of water and boiled to reduce the\r\nvolume to one fourth of original volume of water. This\r\nhenceforth was designated as \'Decoction\' and administered\r\nto test animals in graded doses for varying period of\r\ntreatment.\r\nAlcoholic Extract: Weighed amount of powdered plant\r\nmaterial was soxhaIated with measured volume of 50%\r\nethanol distilled water solvent for such time till no more\r\ncoloured solvent was obtained. The extract so obtained was\r\nreduced to a semi solid state under low temperature and\r\nBhatia, Sharma, Pathania and Khanduri 89\r\nreduced pressure using a rotary apparatus (Khanna and\r\nChaudhury 1968). This was henceforth designated as\r\n\'alcoholic extract\'. Desired amount of this extract was weighed\r\nand mixed with 2% gum acacia to obtain an aqueous\r\nsuspension for administration to test rats in graded dose\r\nfor varying period of treatment.\r\nLD50 Studies: The actute 24 hour lethality test was\r\ncarried out according to WHO Protocol (1983); Link, 1978;\r\nHunter, 1979; Ovebeek, 1973. The extracts were dissolved in\r\ndistilled water, and 0.5mg/100 body weight was administered\r\norally using a metallic feeding cannula. The dose was\r\nincreased until 50% mortality was obtained within 24 hours.\r\nDoses of 10 and 15mg/kg body weight were found to be\r\nassociated with 1to 2% mortality and 50% mortality was\r\nfound at 20mg/kg body weight .Thus LD-50 IS 20mg/kg\r\nbody weight, which according to WHO Standard reveals\r\nthat the extract is non-toxic and were observed for any\r\nchange in behaviour toxicity and mortality, if any up to 72\r\nhours.\r\nAntifertility Studies : The healthy male albino rats were\r\ndivided into 13 groups of 10 animals each and treated with\r\ndifferent extracts as follows :\r\nGroup 1 - Control, Group 2-4 - Decoction @ 100, 250,\r\n500 mg/kg b.w. respectively for 30 days. Group 5-7 -\r\nDecoction @ 100, 250, 500 mg/kg b.w. respectively for 60\r\ndays. Group 8-10 - Alcoholic extract @ 100, 250, 500 mg/kg\r\nb.w. respectively for 30 days. Group 11-13 - Alcoholic extract\r\n@ 100, 250, 500 mg/kg b.w. respectively for 60 days.\r\nThereafter, they were sacrificed by cervical dislocation and\r\nreproductive and non-reproductive organs were taken out\r\nfor histological studies.\r\nReversibility Studies: The rats were divided into 7\r\ngroups of 10 rats each.\r\nGroup 1 - Control, Group 2-4 - Decoction @ 100, 250,\r\n500 mg/kg b.w. respectively for 60 days. Group 5-7 -Alcoholic\r\nextract @ 100, 250, 500 mg/kg b.w. respectively for 60 days.\r\nBody weight of all the animal were recorded before and\r\nafter the treatment. At the end of the treatment (days 60th)\r\nthe treated male rats were co-caged with proven fertile female\r\nrats overnight. Vaginal smears were taken next morning to\r\nascertain the success of mating. If the sperms were present\r\nin the smear it was designated as day 1 of pregnancy.\r\nLaprotomy of the pregnant females was done on day 10th\r\nto ascertain the number of implants, Corpora lutea they were\r\nthen allowed to deliver full term and the litter size were\r\nrecorded. Thirty days after cessation of treatment (90th day),\r\nthe animals were sacrificed by cervical dislocation. Body\r\nweight of all the animals were recorded at the initiation of\r\nthe experiment and continued at weekly intervals till the\r\ncompletion of the experiment. Reproductive tissues viz.,\r\ntestis, epididymis, vas deferens, seminal vesicle, prostate\r\nand non-reproductive organs viz., heart, lung, liver, spleen\r\nand kidney were removed. The fresh weight of tissues,\r\norgans was recorded. The tissues were taken processed for\r\nhistological studies (Overbeek et al., 1973; Coutinho, 2002).\r\nStatistical Analysis : The data obtained was analysed\r\nusing standard statistical techniques for the significance of\r\ndifferences by applying one way ANOVA followed by\r\nstudent\'s \'t\' test (Snedecor and Cochran, 1967).\r\nRESULTS AND DISCUSSION\r\nAcute Toxicity and LD50 Studies: Varying doses of\r\nextracts of plants Adiantum lunulatum were given to different\r\ngroups of rats (W.H.O. Protocol, 1983 and Link, 1978; Hunter,\r\n1979) were given to different groups of rats. It was found\r\nthat the toxicity level in all the three mentioned plants were\r\nsafe upto 15 g/kg b.w.\r\nEffect of Adiantum lunulatum Linn. on the body and\r\ngenital tissue weight in rats.\r\nDecoction: Administration 500 mg/kg of Adiantum\r\nlunulatum decoction for 30 and 60 days resulted in\r\nsignificant reduction of genital tissue wet weights, which\r\nwere duration dependent that is 60 days treatment resulted\r\nin higher reduction compared to those of 30 days treatment\r\nduration. No change, however, was observed in the body\r\nweight. The results indicated that Adiantum lunulatum\r\ndecoction produced a dose and duration dependent change\r\nin the genital organ wet weight in rats.\r\nAlcoholic Extract: The lower dose does not show any\r\nsignificant changes however, administration of 500 mg/kg\r\ndose of Adiantum lunulatum decoction for 30 days produced\r\nmarket reduction in the size of the tubules. The seminiferous\r\ntubules presented significant degenerative changes. The\r\nchanges invoked by the treatment consisted of the damage\r\nof the germinal epithelium and degeneration of spermatozoa,\r\nspermatogonia, spermatocytes and spermatids. The\r\ninterstitium was highly reduced and packed with atrophied\r\nLeydig\'s cells. Thus, higher dose produced marked reduction\r\nin genital weight of testes, caput and cauda epididymis,vas\r\ndeferns, seminal vesicle and prostate glands.\r\nEffect of Adiantum lunulatum 50% alcoholic and\r\ndecoction extract on histology of testis: Administration of\r\n50% alcoholic and decoction extract of Adiantum lunulatum\r\nat 500 mg/kg for 30 days resulted in the arrest of\r\nspermatogenesis at secondary spermatocytes stage. The\r\ntiered arrangement of the germ cells was disturbed and most\r\nof them were seen to have migrated into the lumen.\r\nSloughing of the dead cells occurred into the lumen of the\r\ntubules. However upon treatment with same dose (500 mg/\r\nkg) for 60 days, the seminiferous tubules showed\r\ndegenerative changes. The lumen of the seminiferous tubules\r\nwas filled with oedematous fluid and cellular debris. The\r\nhigher alcoholic dose cause severe disintegration of\r\nspermatocytes,resulting spermatogenic arrest with severe\r\ntubular necrosis (Figure 1 and 2).\r\nHistology of normal caput and cauda epididymis: The\r\ntransverse section of epididymis presented a normal\r\nhistological picture. The epithelial cells of the caput were\r\n90 Bhatia, Sharma, Pathania and Khanduri\r\ntall, columnar with nuclei arranged in a row near the thin\r\nbasement membrane. The epithelium of the cauda consisted\r\nof low cuboidal cells. The lumen of the ductules was larger\r\nin the cauda and smaller in the caput segments of sterocilia\r\nwere more profuse in the caput region than in the cauda.\r\nBoth the portions of the epididymis were full of spermatozoa.\r\nIntertubular connective tissue and vascularity was observed\r\nto be normal in both caput and cauda epididymis. The higher\r\nalcoholic dose cause severe disintegration of spermatocytes,\r\nresulting in spermatogenic arrest with severe tubular\r\nnecrosis.\r\nEffect of Adiantum lunulatum 50% alcoholic and\r\ndecoction extract on histology of caput and cauda\r\nepididymis: When 50% alcoholic and decoction at dose level\r\nof 500 mg/kg dose of Adiantum lunulatum was administered\r\nfor 30 days, the histological alterations were more visible in\r\ncaput than cauda. The inter tubular spaces were wider in\r\ncaput and filled with some unknown material. The stereocilia\r\nwere lacking in caput. In cauda, the epithelial cells were\r\ndistorted and nuclear pyknosis appeared among the epithelial\r\ncells. Administration of same dose for 60 days induced\r\nmarket histological changes. The lumen of ducts contained\r\ncellular debris. The interstitial spaces were filled with loose\r\nconnective tissue. No sperms were visible. In cauda there\r\nwere very little spermatozoa which had clumped. The\r\ninterstitial spaces were filed with little loose connective\r\ntissue, which has clumped. The interstitial spaces were filled\r\nwith loose connective tissue.\r\nAdministration of 500 mg/kg dose of 50% alcoholic and\r\ndecoction for 30 days was observed to have caused mild\r\nalterations in the histology of epididymis. The histological\r\nchanges were more pronounced in caput than in cauda\r\nregion. In caput, the lumen of tubules contained little or no\r\nspermatozoa. The epithelial nuclei were observed to have\r\nmigrated into the lumen of the tubules. In cauda, the\r\nintertubular spaces were widened and were observed to be\r\nfilled with unidentifiable fibrous material. Administration of\r\nsame dose for 60 days, showed more degenerative changes\r\nin cauda than in caput epididymis.\r\nHistology of normal vas deferns: The transverse section\r\nof the vas deferens of control rats showed normal\r\nhistological picture with three distinct muscular patterns,\r\nnamely, the outer longitudinal, middle circular and inner\r\nlongitudinal layers. The lamina propria was present between\r\nthe inner longitudinal muscle layer and the pseudo-stratified\r\nepitheliurn which contained stereocilia.\r\nEffect of Adiantum lunulatum 50% alcoholic and\r\ndecoction extract on histology of vas deferens:\r\nAdministration of 500 mg/kg dose of 50% alcoholic and\r\ndecoction for 30 and 60 days caused reduction in the\r\nthickness of lamina propria and resulted in the absence of\r\nspermatozoa. The height of luminal folds was affected. The\r\nepithelial layer was observed to have broken at several\r\nplaces. Similarly, administration of 250 mg/kg dose for 30\r\nand 60 days caused distortion in the muscular arrangement\r\nat several places and vacuoles were also seen in these layers.\r\nThe luminal folds, which formed villi present a distorted\r\nappearance and was broken at some place. The stereocilia\r\nand spermatozoa were completely absent. When 500mg/kg\r\ndose of this decoction was administered for 30 and 60 days\r\nthe luminal epithelium showed nuclear pyknosis especially\r\nin the region of the folds. The lumen was devoid of\r\nspermatozoa clumped and muscular arrangement was\r\ndisturbed.\r\nHistology of normal seminal vesicle: The transverse\r\nsection (T.S.) of seminal vesicle of control rats showed\r\nmuscosal folds extending into the lumen. The lumen was\r\nfilled with secretions produced by glandular epithelium. The\r\nepithelial lining of mucosa consisted of a single layer of tall\r\ncolumnar cells with basal oval nuclei.\r\nEffect of Adiantum lunulatum 50% alcoholic and\r\ndecoction extract on histology of seminal vesicle: The lower\r\ndose does not show any alteration in the histo-architecture\r\nof the tissue. However, administration of 500 mg/kg dose of\r\n50% alcoholic extract of Adiantum lunulatum for 30 and 60\r\ndays caused reduction in lumen size due to creeping in of\r\nmucosal folds and lowering of secretion. The patterns of\r\nmucosal folds were highly distorted. The muscle layers were\r\nthin. The lamina propria and connective tissue were in poor\r\ncondition. The treatment with 500 mg/kg dose decoction of\r\nAdiantum lunulatum for 30 and 60 days also caused\r\ninhibition of the secretions in the lumen. The epithelial cells\r\nand changed their shape. The lamina propria and muscle\r\nlayers were disturbed and reduced in height. The mucosal\r\ncrypts were no more discernible.\r\nHistology of normal prostate glands: The histological\r\nstructure of the prostate gland in T.S. of control animals\r\nshowed a number of alveoli lined by the low columnar\r\nepithelium with basal nuclei. The follicular lumen was full of\r\nsecretions. There was a intervening fibre muscular stoma.\r\nThe epithelium had proliferated into the crypts having\r\ninvaded the lumen. Folding of the mucosal lining was\r\nobserved in smaller tubules but distended tubules had no\r\nmucosal folds.\r\nEffect of Adiantum lunulatum 50% alcoholic and\r\ndecoction extract on histology of prostate glands :\r\nAdministration of 50% alcoholic and decoction at dose level\r\nof 500 mg/kg for 30 and 60 days produced significant\r\nalterations in the histological structure of prostate glands\r\nof the treated animals. The various alveoli were in the\r\nprocess of disintegration. The lumen had less secretary\r\nmaterial in some follicles and the mucosal folds were\r\ndamaged. The epithelium had degenerated cellular elements.\r\nReversibility. Withdrawal of treatment results in the\r\nrestoration of the changes induced by the treatment\r\nirrespective of the dose and type of formulation (decoction\r\nor alcoholic) the values were observed to be comparable to\r\nthe control groups. No effect of Adiantum lunulatum on\r\nnon reproductive tissue weight was observed. It shows that\r\nadministration of Adiantum lunulatum decoction and\r\nBhatia, Sharma, Pathania and Khanduri 91\r\nalcoholic extract at various dose levels did not result in any\r\nchange in the wet weight of various non reproductive organs\r\nof the treated rats compared to that of the controls.\r\nTreatment of 100 mg/kg dose of alcoholic extract of\r\nAdiantum lunulatum did not impair the fertility rat. However,\r\n250 and 500 mg/kg doses induced complete infertility in the\r\ntreated males. The above loss of fertility rat was observed\r\nto be reversed significantly upon the withdrawal of treatment\r\nfollowed by 30 days of rest period. Similarly, administration\r\nof Adiantum lululatum decoction a 250 and 500 mg/kg doses\r\ninduced 100% infertility in treated animals. However the\r\ncessation of treatment and rest period for 30 days was\r\nobserved to reverse the above infertility rat significantly\r\namong the treated animal. Coutinho, 2002\r\nTreatment of rats with Adiantum lunulatum whole plant\r\ndecoction at higher doses of 250 and 500mg/kg b.w for\r\nlonger period (60 days) of treatment caused various degrees\r\nof damage in all the reproductive tissues. The seminiferous\r\ntubules were disfigured spermatogenesis was arrested at\r\nspermatogonial stage (Verma 2002). The Leydig\'s cell was\r\nmostly atrophied. The interstitial spaces were filled with\r\noedematous fluid. The vas deferens shows marked changes\r\nin histological features. The stellate form of lumen was\r\ndistorted. The luminal epithelium showed nuclear pyknosis.\r\nNo spermatozoa were observed in the lumen. The seminal\r\nvesicle showed mild alteration in its histology. The\r\nadministration of same doses for same period showed\r\nalteration in the histology of prostate. The lumen had less\r\nsecretion. The epithelium had pyknotic nuclei especially in\r\nthe mucosal fold. Dose and duration dependent effects on\r\nthe testis, epididymis, vas deferens and accessory\r\nreproductive organs of the rats treated with 50% ethanolic\r\nextract of Adiantum lunulatum was also observed. The doses\r\nof 250 and 500mg/kg b.w. for 30 and 60 days caused\r\ndeleterious effects on various reproductive organs. The\r\ntreatment resulted in vacuole formation in the germ cells of\r\nthe testis. Leydig\'s cells atrophied totally. No spermatozoa\r\ncould be seen in the seminiferous tubules and they were\r\nfilled either with oedematous fluid or degenerated cellular\r\ndebris. Caput and cauda epididymis showed marked\r\nhistological alterations in the epithelium of the ductules\r\n(Verma and Chinoy 2002). The seminal vesicles were affected\r\nwith little secretions, damaged epithelial cells and poor\r\nvascularity in lamina propria. The histology of prostate was\r\nalso affected by these plant extract treatments. A significant\r\nreduction in reproductive and accessory sex organs weights\r\nwere also observed. The results of the present study\r\nrevealed arrest of spermatogenesis at the spermatogonial\r\nstage. It may be because of the effect of the treatment\r\n(Adiantum lunulatum) on the circulating levels of LH and\r\nFSH. (Liu et al 2004, Gupta et al, 2004) Further, the atrophy\r\nof Leydig\'s cells under the influence of the present treatments\r\nmay have resulted in the lowering of testosterone levels\r\nindicating antiandrogenic activity. It seems that the extracts\r\nexert their effect on spermatogenesis through the alteration\r\nof the hypothalamus-pitutary-gonadal axis function and\r\nregulation. The structural alterations induced by the\r\ntreatment of the rats with extracts of Adiantum lunulatum\r\nsuggest that the antifertility effect manifested by these agents\r\nis essentially as a result of antiandrogenic properties present\r\nin the plant species studied. Further, the treatment might\r\nhave altered the bio-chemical and physiological milieu of\r\nthe epididymis contributing to the non-maturation of the\r\nsperm which might explain the lower fertility rate observed\r\namongst the treated rats. A comparative study of various\r\nhistophysiological features of proximal and distal vas\r\ndeferens reveals that it is not a mere connection for sperm\r\ntransport, but is an important organ contributing actively to\r\nthe maintenance of sperm structure, maturation, survival and\r\nviability (Ghose, 2002; Chinoy et al., 1997; Sur, 2002; Bai\r\nJun Ping, 2002; Tamboura et al., (2004).\r\nThe treatment with Adiantum lunulatum in the present\r\nstudy revealed lowering of secretary activity of both seminal\r\nvesicle and prostate gland besides alterations in their histoarchitecture.\r\nThese point out specific antiandrogenic effects\r\nof these agents on these accessory sex organs, resulting in\r\ninhibition of the contributing factors for sperm activation\r\nand vitality. This could be the cause of reduced fertility\r\nrates as observed in the present study. No work on male\r\nantifertility activity of Adiantum lunulatum has been reported\r\nso far. However, the histological and physiological actions\r\nmanifested by the treatment with these agents in the present\r\nstudy are in conformity with similar changes in the\r\nreproductive organs reported for many other plant species\r\n(Farook et al., 1989; Purohit, 1990; Lohiya and Goyal, 1992;\r\nChaturvedi et al., 1995; Manonayagi et al., 1989; Parveen et\r\nal, 1993; Kasturi et al., 1995; Bhargava, 1989; Malini et al.,\r\n1999 and Hiremath et al., 1997.\r\nThere were varying degree of spermatogenesis and the\r\nprominent feature was nuclear degeneration in varying\r\ngerminal cell types. Most of the tubules were devoid of\r\nspermatids and spermatozoa. The absence of secretion\r\nindicated impairment in their normal function. Absence of\r\nsperms in caput epididymis suggests an acute effect of the\r\nextract on the process of spermatogenesis. The absence of\r\nsecretion in seminal vesicle and ventral prostate appears to\r\nindicate a change in function of Leydig\'s cell or inhibition\r\nof androgenic effect of hormones on the target organs by\r\nplant extracts. The weight of the reproductive and accessory\r\nsex organs was reduced considerably. Drastic reduction in\r\nthe weight of testes indicates severe damage of the testicular\r\nmaterial. These effects suggest strong antiandrogenic\r\nproperties vested in the plant species studied. The results\r\nof the present study point out that Adiantum lunulatum\r\npossibly act as an antiandrogenic agent and alter the\r\nphysiology and metabolism of the reproductive organs viz.\r\ntestis, epididymis, vas deferens and accessory sex organs\r\nlike seminal vesicle and prostate. The restoration of\r\nhistological features back to normal and reversal of\r\nfunctional fertility upon the cessation of treatment reveals\r\n92 Bhatia, Sharma, Pathania and Khanduri\r\nthat the effect of these agents is essentially reversible. The\r\ntreatment of rats with these agents does not cause any\r\npermanent genetical loss that is one of the main and key\r\nareas of concern for any contraceptive to be safe.\r\nThus, the present study reveals that Adiantum\r\nlunulatum could be possibly exploited pharmacologically to\r\ndevelop a safer, effective and reversible male antifertility\r\nagent(s). Detailed studies are however, required to be\r\nundertaken before these plants could be developed as a\r\nsimple, safe, effective and reversible male contraceptive.','D.K. Bhatia, A.K. Sharma, P.C. Pathania and Naveen Chandra Khanduri (2010). Antifertility effects of crude different of Adiantum lunulatum Burm. on Reproductive Organs of male albino rats.. Biological Forum — An International Journal, 2(2): 88-93. '),(4725,'128','Phyto-sociological studies in Hitch Pawang valley of Rakchham\r\nChitkul wild life sanctuary of district Kinnaur, Himachal Pradesh','R.K. Verma and K.S. Kapoor','21 DR RK VERMA.pdf','',1,'A study was conducted to understand the phytosociological along an altitudinal gradient with\r\nelevations varying from 3300m to 4800m above msl in Hitch Pawang valley of Rakchham Chitkul wild life\r\nsanctuary in district Kinnaur, Himachal Pradesh during 2008. The total number of plant species in the valley\r\nwas 142 belonging to 42 families and 95 genera. The dominant families were Asteraceae, Rosaceae,\r\nRanunculaceae, Ploygonaceae and Apiaceae. The number of tree species was 3 with the dominance of Pinus\r\nwallichiana at 3300-3800m and 3800-4300m elevation respectively. The number of shrub species was 22 and 14\r\nat the elevation of 3300-3800m and 3800-4300m having dominance of Rhododendron campanulatum at both the\r\nelevations. Whereas, at 4300-4800m elevation number of shrub species was 10 with the dominance of Rhododendron\r\nanthopogon. The number of herbs species were 67, 51 and 67 with the dominance of Salix fragilis, Potentilla\r\nmultifida and Cassiope fastigiata at 3300-3800m and 3800-4300m and 4300-4800m elevation respectively. The\r\ndistribution pattern of species was mostly contiguous in all the altitude ranges. Index of diversity for herb was\r\n3.83, 3.47 and 3.83 for 3300-3800m, 3800-4300m and 4300-4800m elevation respectively. Out of 48 medicinal\r\nplant species as recorded from the area, 13 species fall in the category of threatened plants.','-','A study was conducted to understand the phytosociological along an altitudinal gradient with\r\nelevations varying from 3300m to 4800m above msl in Hitch Pawang valley of Rakchham Chitkul wild life\r\nsanctuary in district Kinnaur, Himachal Pradesh during 2008. The total number of plant species in the valley\r\nwas 142 belonging to 42 families and 95 genera. The dominant families were Asteraceae, Rosaceae,\r\nRanunculaceae, Ploygonaceae and Apiaceae. The number of tree species was 3 with the dominance of Pinus\r\nwallichiana at 3300-3800m and 3800-4300m elevation respectively. The number of shrub species was 22 and 14\r\nat the elevation of 3300-3800m and 3800-4300m having dominance of Rhododendron campanulatum at both the\r\nelevations. Whereas, at 4300-4800m elevation number of shrub species was 10 with the dominance of Rhododendron\r\nanthopogon. The number of herbs species were 67, 51 and 67 with the dominance of Salix fragilis, Potentilla\r\nmultifida and Cassiope fastigiata at 3300-3800m and 3800-4300m and 4300-4800m elevation respectively. The\r\ndistribution pattern of species was mostly contiguous in all the altitude ranges. Index of diversity for herb was\r\n3.83, 3.47 and 3.83 for 3300-3800m, 3800-4300m and 4300-4800m elevation respectively. Out of 48 medicinal\r\nplant species as recorded from the area, 13 species fall in the category of threatened plants.','The diverse climate and the varied environmental\r\nconditions prevailing in the lap of Himalayas support diverse\r\nhabitat and ecosystems with equally diverse life forms.\r\nVariations in terms of its size, climate and altitudinal ranges,\r\nhave created environments those are unique and\r\ncharacteristic to this region only. Himalayas known for its\r\nrich and diverse plant wealth had shown a rapid decline in\r\npopulation of many plant species in recent past. Some of\r\nthem have already been lost whereas many of them are in\r\nthe verge of extinction. The current decline in biodiversity\r\nlargely through human activities is a serious threat to our\r\necosystem. Hence, attempts are on to preserve this\r\nbiodiversity in-site and ex-situ conservation. Rakchham-\r\nChitkul wildlife sanctuary is one of the high altitude\r\nsanctuary established in 1962 in Kinnaur district of\r\nHimachal Pradesh. In this sanctuary, continuous removal\r\nof plant species for various uses and overgrazing by\r\nmigratory and other livestock infact, have resulted in loss\r\nof biodiversity. If these naturally occurring plant resources\r\nare not conserved timely then they may soon become\r\nextinct. The assessment of plant wealth in this sanctuary\r\nmay provide a key for its conservation. Keeping these\r\naspects in view, a study was undertaken to know the\r\nphytosociology in Hitch Pawang valley of Rakchham Chitkul\r\nwild life sanctuary in district Kinnaur of Himachal Pradesh.\r\nMATERIALS AND METHODS\r\nThe present study was conducted in Hitch Pawang\r\nvalley of Rakchham Chitkul wild life sanctuary in district\r\nKinnaur of Himachal Pradesh during, 2008 at an elevation\r\nof 3300-4800m. The study site was situated 31° 20’ 58.1\" to\r\n31° 19’ 12.4\" N latitude and 78° 26’ 14.8\" to 78° 26’ 3.3\" E\r\nlongitudes. The whole area of the valley was divided into\r\nthree altitudes i.e. 3300-3800m, 3800-4300m and 4300-4800m\r\nfor conducting the phyto-sociological study. Quadrats of\r\nsize 10 m × 10 m, 3 m × 3 m and 1mx1m laid out randomly\r\nfor enumerating trees, shrubs and herbs + regeneration\r\nrespectively. The seedlings were considered as herb while\r\nsaplings as shrubs. The vegetation data was analysed for\r\ndensity, frequency and abundance according to formulas\r\ngiven by Curtis and McIntosh (1950). The relative values\r\nof density, frequency and dominance were summed to get\r\nImportance Value Index (IVI) of individual species. The\r\nabundance to frequency ratio (A/F) of different species was\r\ndetermined for eliciting the distribution pattern. This ratio\r\nindicates regular (<0.025), random (0.025 to 0.050) and\r\ncontiguous (>0.050) distribution (Curtis and Cottam, 1956).\r\nThe plant species diversity was calculated by using\r\nShanon-Wiener diversity Index (H) (Shannon-Wiener,\r\n1963).\r\nH = –\r\nS\r\ni=1\r\nNi Ni\r\nln\r\nN N\r\næ ö æ ö\r\nåçè ÷ø çè ÷ø\r\nConcentration of dominance (C) was measured by\r\nSimpson’s Index (Simpson, 1949).\r\nC =\r\nS 2\r\ni=1\r\nNi\r\nN\r\næ ö\r\nåçè ÷ø\r\nPhyto-sociological studies in Hitch Pawang valley of Rakchham\r\nChitkul wild life sanctuary of district Kinnaur, Himachal Pradesh\r\nR.K. Verma and K.S. Kapoor\r\nHimalayan Forest Research Institute Conifer Campus, Panthaghati,\r\nShimla (H.P.) INDIA\r\nABSTRACT : A study was conducted to understand the phytosociological along an altitudinal gradient with\r\nelevations varying from 3300m to 4800m above msl in Hitch Pawang valley of Rakchham Chitkul wild life\r\nsanctuary in district Kinnaur, Himachal Pradesh during 2008. The total number of plant species in the valley\r\nwas 142 belonging to 42 families and 95 genera. The dominant families were Asteraceae, Rosaceae,\r\nRanunculaceae, Ploygonaceae and Apiaceae. The number of tree species was 3 with the dominance of Pinus\r\nwallichiana at 3300-3800m and 3800-4300m elevation respectively. The number of shrub species was 22 and 14\r\nat the elevation of 3300-3800m and 3800-4300m having dominance of Rhododendron campanulatum at both the\r\nelevations. Whereas, at 4300-4800m elevation number of shrub species was 10 with the dominance of Rhododendron\r\nanthopogon. The number of herbs species were 67, 51 and 67 with the dominance of Salix fragilis, Potentilla\r\nmultifida and Cassiope fastigiata at 3300-3800m and 3800-4300m and 4300-4800m elevation respectively. The\r\ndistribution pattern of species was mostly contiguous in all the altitude ranges. Index of diversity for herb was\r\n3.83, 3.47 and 3.83 for 3300-3800m, 3800-4300m and 4300-4800m elevation respectively. Out of 48 medicinal\r\nplant species as recorded from the area, 13 species fall in the category of threatened plants.\r\nBBiioollooggiiccaal lF Foorurmum —– AAnn IInnteternrnaatitoinoanla Jl oJuorunranl,a2l,(21)(:1 9):4-11204-1(270(1200)09) ISSN : 0975-1130\r\nVerma and Kapoor 95\r\nWhere Ni = importance value of species i and N= total\r\nimportance value of all the species in both the indices.\r\nRichness Index was estimated as per Margalef (1958)\r\ni.e., R = S –1/ln N\r\nEvenness Index was calculated as per Hill (1973) i.e.,\r\nE = H/ln S\r\nWhere S = total number of species, N= total number of\r\nindividuals of all the species, H = Index of diversity.\r\nRESULTS AND DISCUSSION\r\nThe total number of plant species was 142 belonging\r\nto 42 families and 95 genera in Hitch Pawang valley.\r\nThe dominant families were Asteraceae, Rosaceae,\r\nRanunculaceae, Ploygonaceae and Apiaceae. At elevation\r\n3300-3800m, total number of tree species was 3 (Table-1).\r\nPinus wallichiana was the dominant species having\r\nmaximum density (360ha-1) and abundance (3.60) and\r\nfrequency (100%). This was followed by Abies spectabilis\r\nand Betula utilis in term of density, frequency and IVI.\r\nThe distribution pattern of all the species was contiguous.\r\nThe contiguous distribution is the commonest pattern in\r\nnature, random distribution is found in very uniform\r\nenvironment. The general preponderance of contiguous\r\ndistribution in vegetation has been reported by several\r\nworkers (Kershaw, 1973; Singh and Yadava, 1974;\r\nKunhikannan et al., 1998).\r\nTable 1 : Distribution of tree species in Hitch Pawang valley at 3300-3800 m elevation.\r\nS.N. Name of the Species Density Frequency Abundance A/F IVI\r\n(ha-1)\r\n1 Abies spectabilis (D. Don) Mirbel 60.00 60.00 1.00 0.02 61.63\r\n2 Betula utilis D. Don 20.00 20.00 1.00 0.05 18.33\r\n3 Pinus wallichiana A. B. Jackson 360.00 100.00 3.60 0.04 220.04\r\nAmong 22 species of shrubs, Syringa emodi recorded\r\nthe maximum frequency (40%) followed by Betula utilis,\r\nRhododendron campanulatum and Lonicera myrtillus at\r\nelevation 3000-3800m (Table-2). The highest abundance was\r\nobserved for Rhododendron anthopogon (16) followed by\r\nBerberis coriaria, Rosa macrophylla and Juniperus\r\ncommunis. On the basis of IVI, Rhododendron\r\ncampanulatum recorded the highest value (70.17) followed\r\nby Syringa emodi (24.56), Berberis jaeschkeana (21.03) and\r\nLonicera hypoleuca (17.60). The lowest IVI of 2.97 was\r\nobserved for Lonicera obovata. The distribution pattern of\r\nall the species was contiguous.\r\nTable 2: Distribution of shrub species in Hitch Pawang valley at 3300-3800m elevation.\r\nS.N. Name of the Species Density (ha-1) Frequency Abundance A/F IVI\r\n1 Abies spectabilis* (D. Don) Mirbel 44.44 12.50 3.20 0.26 9.74\r\n2 Astragalus chlorostachys Lindley. 13.89 7.50 1.67 0.22 3.04\r\n3 Berberis coriaria Royle 111.11 7.50 13.33 1.78 7.96\r\n4 Berberis jaeschkeana C. K. Schneider 133.33 12.50 9.60 0.77 21.03\r\n5 Betula utilis* D. Don 86.11 32.50 2.38 0.07 15.56\r\n6 Cotoneaster bacillaris Wall.ex Lindl. 22.22 7.50 2.67 0.36 3.71\r\n7 Juniperus communis Linn. 163.89 15.00 9.83 0.66 14.62\r\n8 Lonicera asperifolia (Decne.) Hook. f. & Thoms. 88.89 15.00 5.33 0.36 9.78\r\n9 Lonicera hypoleuca Decne. 200.00 20.00 9.00 0.45 17.60\r\n10 Lonicera myrtillus Hook. f. & Thoms 177.78 25.00 6.40 0.26 17.11\r\n11 Lonicera obovata Royle ex Hook. f. & Thoms. 13.89 7.50 1.67 0.22 2.97\r\n12 Pinus wallichiana *A. B. jackson 36.11 22.50 1.44 0.06 9.31\r\n13 Rhododendron anthopogon D. Don 133.33 7.50 16.00 2.13 10.83\r\n14 Rhododendron campanulaum D. Don 213.89 30.00 6.42 0.21 70.17\r\n15 Ribes alpestre Wall. ex Decne. 13.89 7.50 1.67 0.22 3.08\r\n16 Rosa macrophyllus Lindley. 88.89 7.50 10.67 1.42 9.42\r\n17 Rosa webbiana Wall. ex Royle 111.11 25.00 4.00 0.16 14.31\r\n18 Rubus hoffmeisterianus Kunth & Bouche 75.00 7.50 9.00 1.20 7.97\r\n19 Salix lindleyana Wall. ex Andersson 88.89 20.00 4.00 0.20 12.03\r\n20 Spiraea bella Sims 13.89 12.50 1.00 0.08 4.32\r\n21 Spiraea canescens D. Don 133.33 12.50 9.60 0.77 10.88\r\n22 Syringa emodi *Wall. ex Royle 200.00 40.00 4.50 0.11 24.56\r\n*Sapling\r\n96 Verma and Kapoor\r\nTable 3: Distribution of herb species in Hitch Pawang valley at 3300-3800m elevation.\r\nS.No. Name of the Species Density(m-2) Frequency (%) Abundance A/F IVI\r\n1 Abies spectabilis (D.Don.)Mirbel 0.10 8.33 1.20 0.14 1.66\r\n2 Anaphalis triplinervis (Sims) C. B. Clarke 2.92 35.00 8.33 0.24 11.81\r\n3 Anemone rivularis Buch.-Ham. ex DC. 0.52 8.33 6.20 0.74 2.72\r\n4 Aquilegia pubiflora Wall. ex Royle 0.33 16.67 2.00 0.12 3.08\r\n5 Arabidopsis thaliana (Linn.) Heynh. 0.43 16.67 2.60 0.16 3.11\r\n6 Artemisia sieversiana Willd. 0.42 8.33 5.00 0.60 2.37\r\n7 Astragalus chlorostachys Lindley. 0.10 8.33 1.20 0.14 1.56\r\n8 Betula utilis **D. Don 0.35 23.33 1.50 0.06 5.26\r\n9 Bistorta affiniis (D. Don) Greene 0.35 8.33 4.20 0.50 2.20\r\n10 Bupleurum falcatum Linn. 0.35 16.67 2.10 0.13 3.09\r\n11 Cassiope fastigiata (Wall.) D. Don 0.27 6.67 4.00 0.60 1.90\r\n12 Chaerophyllum villosum Wall. ex DC. 0.22 6.67 3.25 0.49 1.93\r\n13 Chenopodium ambrosioides Linn. 0.18 8.33 2.20 0.26 2.32\r\n14 Conyza viscidula Wall. 0.12 8.33 1.40 0.17 1.56\r\n15 Cynoglossum micranthum Desf. 0.42 16.67 2.50 0.15 3.77\r\n16 Cynoglossum wallichii G. Don 0.15 10.00 1.50 0.15 1.81\r\n17 Dianthus angulatus Royle 0.17 8.33 2.00 0.24 1.41\r\n18 Elsholtzia cristata Willd. 0.18 6.67 2.75 0.41 1.85\r\n19 Epilobium angustifolium Linn. 0.43 8.33 5.20 0.62 2.15\r\n20 Epilobium cylindricum D. Don 0.38 20.00 1.92 0.10 3.48\r\n21 Fragaria vesca Linn. 1.08 16.67 6.50 0.39 4.72\r\n22 Fagopyrum esculentum Moench 0.20 16.67 1.20 0.07 2.83\r\n23 Galium elegans Wall. ex Roxb. 0.67 8.33 8.00 0.96 2.63\r\n24 Gentiana depressa D. Don 0.32 11.67 2.71 0.23 2.46\r\n25 Geranium pratense Linn. 1.42 33.33 4.25 0.13 8.16\r\n26 Heracleum lanatum Michx. 0.50 25.00 2.00 0.08 11.32\r\n27 Impatiens glandulifera Royle 1.17 33.33 3.50 0.11 7.53\r\n28 Iris kemaonensis D. Don ex Royle 0.33 8.33 4.00 0.48 2.52\r\n29 Juniperus communis **Linn. 0.35 10.00 3.50 0.35 3.37\r\nContd.\r\nIn case of herbs including regeneration, the total number\r\nof species was 67 at elevation 3300-3800m (Table 3). Salix\r\nfragilis was the dominant species having maximum density\r\n(4.83 m-2) followed by Anaphalis triplinervis, Plantago\r\ntibetica, Potentilla multifida and Polygonum polystachya.\r\nPlantago tibetica recorded the maximum value of frequency\r\n(41.67) followed by Anaphalis triplinervis, Geranium\r\npratense, Impatiens glandulifera and Salix fragilis. Salix\r\nfragilis observed the maximum value of IVI (26.42) followed\r\nby Polygonum polystachya (25.12), Polygonatum\r\nverticillatum (17.33) and Podophyllum hexandrum (14.11).\r\nThe lowest value of IVI was recorded for Thymus linearis\r\n(1.14). The distribution pattern of all the species was\r\ncontiguous. The regeneration of Abies spectabilis and\r\nBetula utilis was also recorded.','R.K. Verma and K.S. Kapoor (2010). Phyto-sociological studies in Hitch Pawang valley of Rakchham Chitkul wild life sanctuary of district Kinnaur, Himachal Pradesh. BBiioollooggiiccaal lF Foorurmum —– AAnn IInnteternrnaatitoinoanla Jl oJuorunranl,a2l,(21)(:1 9):4-11204. '),(4726,'128','Head acetate induced histochemical alterations in gonads of\r\nfreshwater snail Bellamya bengalensis','N.A. Kamble and S.R Londhe','22 KAMBLE LONDHE.pdf','',1,'Freshwater snails Bellamya bengalensis (Lamarck) were exposed to Lead acetate. Gonads of the\r\nsnails were subjected for different histochemical analysis of muco-substances. Neutral mucosubstances and acidic\r\nmucosubstances were altered as exposure period increase. It hampers the gametogenesis in snail. Depleted\r\nmucosubstances concentration of reproductive organs during intoxication is discussed in relation to reproductive\r\nphysiology of the snail.','Lead acetate, gonads, Bellamya bengalensis.','Freshwater snails Bellamya bengalensis (Lamarck) were exposed to Lead acetate. Gonads of the\r\nsnails were subjected for different histochemical analysis of muco-substances. Neutral mucosubstances and acidic\r\nmucosubstances were altered as exposure period increase. It hampers the gametogenesis in snail. Depleted\r\nmucosubstances concentration of reproductive organs during intoxication is discussed in relation to reproductive\r\nphysiology of the snail.','Histochemical studies on gastropod molluscs have\r\nreveled that various types of cells and glands contain neutral\r\nmucopolysaccharides, sulfated acidic mucopolysaccharides,\r\ndermato-sulphates, sialomucins and hyaluronic acid.\r\nAlbanese et al., (1978) showed the presence of neutral\r\nmucosubstances, weakly acidic mucosubstances, along with\r\nphenolic compounds and proteins with S-S groups in Pisania\r\nmaculosa. The ratio of the neutral mucosubstances to the\r\nacidic mucosubstances was dependent on the environmental\r\ncondition and the stress.\r\nMany investigators have used histochemical techniques\r\nto evaluate the stress effect caused by heavy metals on the\r\nanimals (Jackim, 1970; Sastri and Sharma, 1980; Thurberg\r\net al., 1977). They found that heavy metals have specific\r\nbinding affinity to sulfahydryl groups of mucosubstances.\r\nThis would naturally alter the concentration of\r\nmucosubstances leading to hyper secretion or inhibition in\r\nthe cells. The metal induced alterations in themucsubstances\r\nmay be considered as more or less accurate indicator of\r\ntoxicity. There is scanty information about the changes in\r\nmucosubstances occurred due to the different heavy metals\r\nin the vital organs of gastropod molluscs. So it was decided\r\nto study the effects of heavy metal lead acetate on the\r\nhistochemical changes in neutral and acidic mucosubstances,\r\nproteins and lipids in gonads of the freshwater snail\r\nBellamya bengalensis for different exposure periods.\r\nMATERIAL AND METHODS\r\nThe freshwater snails Bellamya bengalensis (Lamarck)\r\nwere collected from Rajaram tank, near Shivaji University,\r\nKolhapur. The adult snails measuring 26-28 mm shell height\r\nand 2.8-3.5 gm weight were selected. The snails were divided\r\ninto five troughs. Out of five, one trough was used for\r\ncontrol group of snails. The remaining four troughs were\r\nused as experimental, containing pre-determined LC50\r\nconcentration of Lead acetate (0.77 ppm). Snails in all\r\ngroups were exposed for 24 hrs., 48 hrs., 72 hrs. And 96\r\nhrs. After completion of exposure period, snails were\r\nHead acetate induced histochemical alterations in gonads of\r\nfreshwater snail Bellamya bengalensis\r\nN.A. Kamble and S.R Londhe\r\nDepartment of Zoology, Shivaji University,\r\nKolhapur (M.S.)\r\nABSTRACT : Freshwater snails Bellamya bengalensis (Lamarck) were exposed to Lead acetate. Gonads of the\r\nsnails were subjected for different histochemical analysis of muco-substances. Neutral mucosubstances and acidic\r\nmucosubstances were altered as exposure period increase. It hampers the gametogenesis in snail. Depleted\r\nmucosubstances concentration of reproductive organs during intoxication is discussed in relation to reproductive\r\nphysiology of the snail.\r\nKeywords : Lead acetate, gonads, Bellamya bengalensis.\r\nISSN : 0975-1130\r\nBiological Forum — An International Journal, 2(2): 105-108(2010)\r\ndissected out. The desired organ, gonads (reproductive\r\norgans) where selected for Histochemical analysis\r\n* Histochemical methods: General microtechnique\r\nprocedure was followed for preparation of blocks. The\r\nsections were cut at 4 to 5 μ and various histochemical\r\ntechniques were employed for detection of neutral\r\nmucosubstances and acidic mucosubstances (sulfomucins,\r\nsialomucins, and hyaluronic acid) employed in the present\r\ninvestigation and their specificity are described below :\r\n[A] Neutral mucosubstances :\r\n(a) Periodic acid – Schiff reaction (PAS) (McManus,\r\n1946; Hotchkiss, 1948)\r\n(b) Malt diastase digestion – PAS (Lillie, 1954; Lison,\r\n1960).\r\n[B] Acidic mucosubstances :\r\n(a) Alcian Blue (AB) at pH 2.5 (Mowry, 1956)\r\n(b) Alcian Blue (AB) at pH 1.0 (Lev and Spicer, 1964)\r\n[C] Mercury –: Bromophenol Blue\r\nRESULT\r\n[A] Normal Male gonads :\r\n(i) Germinal epithelial cells : In the PAS staining\r\ntechnique, these cells were stained intensely pink which was\r\nlost colour in Malt diastase digestion test indicating\r\npresence of neutral mucosubstances and glycogen in them.\r\nIn AB pH-1 staining reaction these cells were stained faint\r\nblue indicating very low concentration of weakly sulfomucins.\r\nIn the Mercury Bromophenol blue staining these cells\r\nshowed dark blue colour indicating the presence of proteins\r\nin them\r\n(ii) Sertoli cells and sperms : In the PAS staining\r\ntechnique Sertoli cells and sperms were coloured dark pink\r\nindicating presence of neutral mucosubstances. The pink\r\ncolour was diminished in the Malt diastase staining reaction\r\nshowing high amount of glycogen along with neutral\r\nmucosubstances in them. In the AB pH-1 these cells showed\r\nnegative alcianophilia indicating the absence of sulfomucins\r\n106 Kamble and Londhe\r\nin them. In the Mercury Bromophenol blue test these cells\r\nwerestained dark blue in colour indicating high concentration\r\nof protein.\r\n(iii) Connective tissue: The connective tissue in PAS\r\nstaining reaction showed dark pink colour which was\r\nabolished in Malt diastase digestion technique. In the AB\r\npH-1 staining methods this tissue was stained blue. In the\r\nMercury Bromophenol blue technique it was stained dark.\r\n[B] Normal Female gonads :\r\n(i) Germ cells and Oocytes :In the PAS staining\r\ntechnique these cells were stained dark pink in colour which\r\nwas abolished in the malt diastase technique. Indicating\r\npresence of neutral mucosubstance and glycogen in them.\r\nIn AB pH 2.5 staining cells were stained blue showing\r\npresence trace amount of acidic mucins in them. In Mercury\r\nBromophenol blue technique these cells were stained\r\nintensely blue indicating protein in them.\r\n(ii) Nurse cells : In the PAS staining these cells were\r\nstained dark pink colour which was lost in Malt diastase\r\ntest indicating presence of neutral mucosubstance of\r\nglycogen in them. Rest of the alcianophilic staining reactions\r\nwere negative indicating absence of acidic in these cells.\r\nIn the Mercury Bromophenol blue staining these cells were\r\nstained intensely blue showing high concentration of\r\nproteins in them.\r\n(iii) Connective tissue : In PAS staining the connective\r\ntissue was stained dark pink and in the Malt diastase test\r\nthe pink colour was lost indicating the presence of the\r\nneutral mucosubstances and glycogen in it. In the AB pH\r\n2.5 technique these tissues were pale blue coloured\r\nindicating, small quantity of acidic mucins. In Mercury\r\nBromophenol blue technique, these cells were dark blue\r\nshowing the presence of proteins in it\r\n[C] Induced histochemical alterations due to Lead\r\nacetate :\r\n(a) Male gonads : After 24 hrs of exposure the germinal\r\ncells showed slightly decreased content of neutral\r\nmucosubstances and also glycogen. But the acidic\r\nmucosubstances sulfomucins were increased. The proteins\r\nand lipids were decreased. The spermatocytes were showed\r\ndecreased neutral mucosubstances and glycogen. The acidic\r\nmucosubstances sulfomucins were increased. The proteins\r\nand lipids were reduced. The connective tissue showed\r\nlowered neutral mucosubstances and glycogen. But the acidic\r\nsulfomucins were higher in the concentration. The proteins\r\nand lipids were decreased. In the male gonads after 48 hrs.\r\nof exposure the germinal cells shows decreased concentration\r\nof the neutral mucosubstances and glycogen. Whereas, its\r\nacidic mucosubstances hyaluronic acid and sialomucins were\r\nincreased. The proteins and lipids were reduced. The\r\nspermatocytes showed lowered neutral mucosubstances and\r\nits glycogen level was also reduced. The acidic sulfated\r\nmucins were high in the concentration. The proteins and\r\nlipids were reduced. The connective tissue showed reduced\r\nneutral mucosubstances, its glycogen was also decreased.\r\nThe acidic mucosubstances hyaluronic acid and the\r\nsialomucins were high in concentration. The proteins and\r\nthe lipids were minimized. After 72 hrs of exposure, the\r\ngerminal cells showed poor concentration of neutral\r\nmucosubstances, its glycogen was also less. The acidic\r\nsulfomucins were greatly increased. The proteins and lipids\r\nwere lower down. The spermatocytes showed less\r\nconcentration of neutral mucosubstances. The glycogen level\r\nwas highly decreased. the acidic mucosubstances\r\nsulfomucins were very high in content. The protein and\r\nlipids showed little concentration. The connective tissue\r\nshowed lowered neutral mucosubstances. The glycogen level\r\nwas very poor. The acidic sulfomucins were very high in\r\nconcentration. The proteins and lipids were very less. In\r\nthe male gonads after 96 hrs. of the exposure the germinal\r\ncells showed very less content of the neutral\r\nmucosubstances, as well as glycogen. But its hyaluronic\r\nacid and sialomucins were greatly increased in these cells.\r\nThe proteins and lipids were very less. The spermatocytes\r\nwere showed very less content of the neutral\r\nmucosubstances and its glycogen was reduced very much.\r\nThe strongly acidic sulfated mucins were greatly observed\r\nin the spermatocytes. The proteins and lipids were very\r\npoor. The connective tissue showed very less neutral\r\nmucosubstances. Its glycogen was also poor. But the\r\nhyaluronic acid and the sialomucins were very higher in\r\nconcentration. The proteins and the lipids were very poor\r\nin concentration in the connective tissue.\r\n(b) Female gonads : After 24 hrs. of exposure the\r\ngerminal cells showed decreased neutral mucosubstances.\r\nThe glycogen content was also slightly reduced. The acidic\r\nmucosubstances sulfomucins were increased. The proteins\r\nand lipids were slightly decreased. The nurse cells showed\r\ndecreased neutral mucosubstances. The glycogen was also\r\ndecreased. The acidic sulfomucins were increased. The\r\nproteins and lipids were decreased. The oocytes showed\r\ndecreased neutral mucosubstances and glycogen. Whereas\r\nits acidic mucosubstances sulfomucins were increased. the\r\nproteins and lipids were reduced. The connective tissue\r\nshowed minimized neutral mucosubstances, as well as its\r\nglycogen. The acidic mucosubstances were increased. The\r\nproteins and lipids were reduced. After 48 hrs. of exposure\r\nthe germinal cells showed reduced neutral mucosubstances.\r\nIts glycogen was also lowered. The carboxyl group\r\ncontaining hyaluronic acid and sialomucins were increased.\r\nThe proteins and lipids were decreased. The nurse cells\r\nshowed reduced neutral mucosubstances. The glycogen\r\nlevel was also decreased. The acidic mucosubstances\r\nsulfated mucins were increased. The proteins and lipids\r\nwere lowered. The oocytes showed decreased neutral\r\nmucosubstances and glycogen. But the hyaluronic acid and\r\nthe sialomucins were highly increased. The proteins and\r\nlipids were reduced. The connective tissue showed lowered\r\nneutral mucosubstances and decreased glycogen level in\r\nKamble and Londhe 107\r\nthese tissues. Whereas it’s strongly acidic sulfated mucins\r\nwere highly increased. The proteins and lipids were reduced.\r\nIn the female gonads, after 72 hrs. of exposure the germinal\r\ncells showed less content of neutral mucosubstances and\r\nglycogen. But the acidic mucosubstances were increased\r\nvery much in these cells. The proteins and lipids were\r\npoor in concentration. The nurse cells showed very less\r\nneutral mucosubstances. The glycogen was also decreased\r\nvery much. The acidic mucosubstances sulfomucins were\r\nhigh in concentration. The proteins and lipids were\r\nminimized. The oocytes showed lowered neutral\r\nmucosubstances and glycogen. Whereas its acidic\r\nsulfomucins were highly increased in these cells. The\r\nproteins and lipids were poor in these cells. The connective\r\ntissue showed little concentration of the neutral\r\nmucosubstances. The glycogen level was also decreased.\r\nThe acidic mucosubstances sulfomucins were raised in these\r\ncells. The proteins and lipids were poor in concentration in\r\nthe connective tissue. After 96 hrs. of exposure the germinal\r\ncells showed very little content of neutral mucosubstances,\r\nits glycogen concentration was also very poor. But the\r\nhyaluronic acid and sialomucins were shot up. The proteins\r\nand lipids were very less. The nurse cells showed very poor\r\ncontent of the neutral mucosubstances and glycogen. But\r\nthe strongly acidic mucosubstances were at its peak. The\r\nprotein and lipids were poor. The oocytes showed very\r\nlower neutral mucosubstances. Its glycogen content was\r\nalso very less. The acidic mucosubstances hyaluronic acid\r\nand sialomucins were very high in concentration. The\r\nproteins and lipids were very poor. The connective tissue\r\nshowed very less neutral mucosubstances, the glycogen\r\ncontent was also very poor. The sulfated mucins were high\r\nin concentration. The proteins and lipids were poor in the\r\nconnective tissue.\r\nThe histochemical alterations after exposure to lead for\r\n24 hrs. to 96 hrs. where photomicrographically illustrated in\r\nPlate No.01. The data of some important histochemical\r\nstaining techniques employed to study lead toxicity in male\r\nand female gonads of B. bengalensis have been recorded\r\nin Table No.01, according to visually estimated intensity and\r\nshade with four plus (++++) representing the strongest\r\nactivity.\r\nDISCUSSION\r\nMetals can form metal complexes or coordination\r\ncompounds mainly with sulphahydryl group, amino\r\nphosphates with hexose containing mucosubstances etc.\r\nTherefore, it is not surprising that metal act as inhibitors of\r\nthe mucosubstances and they also stimulate the secretion\r\nof the acidic mucosubstances under toxic stress condition\r\n(Anderson and Weber, 1977). Many workers found\r\ndecreased concentration of neutral mucosubstances due to\r\nmetals toxicity in the cells and the glands of many organs\r\n(Verma and Chand, 1986; Lomte and Patil, 1989; Sontakke,\r\n1992; Valarmathi, 2000). Thurberg et al. (1977) observed\r\nhistochemical changes in digestive gland of Homarus\r\namericanus, and found increased concentration of acidic\r\nmucosubstances. Brouwer et al., (1984) found decreased\r\nconcentration of proteins and lipid in the gills of the\r\nCallinects sapidus.\r\nIn our histochemical study, it was observed that, when\r\nthe snails were exposed to toxic stress environment of heavy\r\nmetals lead acetate, their secretion of neutral\r\nmucosubstances was decreased. These effects may be due\r\nto the higher utilization of neutral mucins, glycogen, proteins\r\nand lipids to overcome the toxic stress on the cellular\r\nmetabolism. On the other hand, the toxic effects of heavy\r\nmetals caused enhancement in the concentration of acidic\r\nmucosubstances such as weakly and strongly sulfated acidic\r\nmucosubstances-sulfomucins and other acidic\r\nmucosubstances such as hyaluronic acid and sialomucins\r\nalso in the cells. The quantity and the quality of acidic\r\nmucosubstances was increased in the targeted cells and\r\ntissues. These were dependent upon the type of toxicant\r\nas well as time of exposure. . High depletion or hyper\r\nsecretion of neutral mucosubstances, acidic mucosubstances\r\nsuch as hyaluronic acid, sialomucins, and sulfomucins may\r\ncause severe and permanent damage to the cells or tissues.\r\nThe snails when exposed to the heavy metal lead\r\nacetate, the gonads showed very drastic and quick\r\nhistochemical changes. Due to the decrease in glycogen,\r\nprotein and lipid concentration and increase in acidic\r\nmucosubstances, the snails became sluggish and inactive.\r\nTheir behavior was changed. The snails started hyper\r\nsecretion of mucoid substances very early just after 24 hrs.\r\nto 48 hrs. of exposure. The gametogenesis process in the\r\nmale and female gonads was slowed down or inhibited. It\r\nmight be due to decreased concentration of neutral\r\nmucosubstances, glycogen, proteins and lipids and due to\r\nhyper secretion at the acidic mucosubstances as hyaluronic\r\nacid, sialomucins, and sulfated mucins after exposure to lead\r\nacetate.','N.A. Kamble and S.R Londhe (2010). Head acetate induced histochemical alterations in gonads of freshwater snail Bellamya bengalensis. Biological Forum — An International Journal, 2(2): 105-108. '),(4727,'128','Shoot Proliferation of Aegle marmelos from nodal stem segment as\r\nexplant','Neha Parihar, Anant Sharma and Sanjay Kumar','23 NEHA PARIHAR.pdf','',1,'Rapid shoot multiplication of Aegle marmelos (L.) Corr. (Rutaceae), a herbal tree, was achieved by\r\nusing nodal stem segments from 20 year old tree cultured in Murashige and Skoog (MS) nutrient medium.\r\nNodal explant growth depended on cytokinin supply. 2mg-1 kinetin induced bud proliferation. Repeated sub\r\nculturing resulted in callus free shoot multiplication.','-','Rapid shoot multiplication of Aegle marmelos (L.) Corr. (Rutaceae), a herbal tree, was achieved by\r\nusing nodal stem segments from 20 year old tree cultured in Murashige and Skoog (MS) nutrient medium.\r\nNodal explant growth depended on cytokinin supply. 2mg-1 kinetin induced bud proliferation. Repeated sub\r\nculturing resulted in callus free shoot multiplication.','Aegle marmelos Correa. Beal fruit (J.C.Yorston, 1892)\r\nmember of family Rutaceae is an important ayurvedic\r\nmedicinal tree of India. It is a medium sized armed deciduous\r\ntree up to 8.0m high (P.K. Warrier, 1993) with sharp thorns\r\nand yellowish brown bark. The leaflets are 3 to 5 and ovate\r\nlanceolate. The flowers are 3 cm and greenish white. Its\r\nfruit is nearly spherical. The tree is frequent in Northern\r\npart in dry deciduous forests and often planted near temples\r\n(N.P. Singh, 1988). Various parts including fruits possess\r\nmedicinal properties and has been extensively used in\r\nayurvedic and folk medicine (Current science, 1995). Cooling\r\ndrinks are prepared by mixing the pulp of ripe fruits of Aegle\r\nmarmelos (Harbhajan Singh, 1978). Aegle marmelos is an\r\nastringent and has antiviral, antihelminthic, anti-inflamatory,\r\nand antimicrobial (against vibrio cholera and salmonella)\r\nproperties (Martin Ingrouille, 2006). Leaves of Aegle marmelos\r\nare good for stomach ailments, diarrhea, worms and\r\ndysentery (Ashwani Kumar, 2008). The use of plant for\r\nallergy, cough, bronchitis and snake bite has also been\r\ndescribed in ayurvedic system of medicine (Tripathi, 2003).\r\nLeaves of Stone apple stimulate pancreas to secrete insulin\r\n(Nadkarni, 1976). The fruit of this tree contain marmelosin,\r\nyoung bark contain coumarin and leaves contain 0.6%\r\nessential oils .The growth is slow and trees don\'t start to\r\nfruit till they are 5 to 8 years old (Narian Singh Chouhan,\r\n1999). Micropropagation is one of the innovative methods\r\nof asexual reproduction that is effective for invitro\r\npropagation of medicinal plants. The objective of the study\r\nwas to develop invitro regeneration system of Aegle\r\nmarmelos from nodal stem segment as an explant followed\r\nby shoot proliferation.\r\nCulture Medium and culture conditions\r\nNodal explants were inoculated onto semi solid MS\r\nmedium (Murashige and Skoog, 1962) containing 3% sucrose\r\nenriched with different concentration of Kinetin (0.5, 1.0,\r\n2.0 mg–1) and with different concentration of BAP (0.5, 1.0,\r\n2.0 mg–1). pH of the medium was adjusted to 6.8 using 0.1N\r\nNaoH or 0.1% HCL before gelling with 0.8% agar(w/v).\r\nMedia was steam sterilized at 121°C and 15 psi pressure for\r\nShoot Proliferation of Aegle marmelos from nodal stem segment as\r\nexplant\r\nNeha Parihar, Anant Sharma* and Sanjay Kumar**\r\nRajasthan University, Jaipur,\r\n*Shri JJT University, Chudela, Jhunjhunu,\r\n**Deptt. of Botany, M.S.J. Govt. College, Bharatpur (RJ)\r\nABSTRACT : Rapid shoot multiplication of Aegle marmelos (L.) Corr. (Rutaceae), a herbal tree, was achieved by\r\nusing nodal stem segments from 20 year old tree cultured in Murashige and Skoog (MS) nutrient medium.\r\nNodal explant growth depended on cytokinin supply. 2mg-1 kinetin induced bud proliferation. Repeated sub\r\nculturing resulted in callus free shoot multiplication.\r\nISSN : 0975-1130\r\nBiological Forum — An International Journal, 2(2): 109-111(2010)\r\n15 min. After surface sterilization and inoculation of nodal\r\nstem segments cultures were incubated in culture room\r\nmaintained at 25+3°C under 16/8 h light dark cycle.\r\nMATERIAL AND METHOD\r\nStudy was undertaken at Institute of Biotechnology and\r\nAllied Sciences (IBAS), Sikar. Nodal stem segments used as\r\nexplant for present study were collected from 20 year old\r\ntree of Aegle marmelos situated in temple near the Institute.\r\nSharon and Marie (2000) reported that nodal explants were\r\npreferred over meristem to produce large number of identical\r\nclones of Bixa oveliana. Shoot twigs with 2 to 3 axillary\r\nbuds collected from mother tree were kept under tap water\r\nfor 5 min. and were rinsed with non-phytotoxic detergent\r\n2% Tween 20 for about 5 min. They were washed in distilled\r\nwater to make explant free from detergent. Explants were\r\nthen disinfected with 1% sodium hypochloride for 10 min.\r\nExplants were than washed with double distilled water twice\r\nfor 10 min. then were transferred to laminar air flow hood\r\nand were sterilized with 0.1% (w/v) mercuric chloride for 1\r\nmin. Lastly explants were washed with double distilled water\r\nand sterile water for 5 min. After sterilization, the explants\r\nwere transferred on MS medium supplemented with different\r\nconcentration of growth regulators.\r\nStatistical Analysis. 15 replicates were used in each\r\ntreatment when separate growth regulators were taken. 10\r\nreplicates were taken when combination of cytokinin was\r\ntaken. All experiments were repeated thrice. Average number\r\nof multiple shoots and shoot length were determined after\r\n71 days.\r\nRESULTS AND DISCUSSION\r\nShoot Proliferation : When explants were grown on\r\nMS media devoid of any growth regulators no\r\nmorphogenetic response was observed. Sprouting of axillary\r\nbuds was observed in 21 days of culture on MS medium\r\nenriched with different concentration of cytokinin. It is\r\nmandatory to augment the medium with combination of\r\ndifferent cytokinin in order to induce shoot proliferation. Of\r\nthe two cytokinin (kinetin and BAP), kinetin supplemented\r\nParihar, Sharma and Kumar 110\r\nmedia was most effective in shoot induction, proliferation,\r\nand multiplication. Cytokinin concentration has been several\r\ntimes reported to be decisive for shoot proliferation and\r\nelongation of many medicinal plant species (Saxena et al,\r\n1998; Rout et al, 2000; Rout, 2004). Within 7 days of\r\nincubation explant swelling was observed. Shoots\r\ncommenced to emerge from axillary bud in 14 days in kinetin\r\nsupplemented media where as in BAP supplemented media\r\nless responsive explants were observed.\r\nFig. 1. Nodal explant growth after 21 days supplemented with\r\n2mg-1 kinetin. Fig. 2. Growth after 25 days.\r\nFig. 3. Growth after 2 months (subculturing 1).\r\nFig. 4. Growth after 67 days.\r\nFig. 5. Nodal explant shoot multiplication after 71 days. Fig. 6. Growth after 81 days of subculturing 2.\r\nParihar, Sharma and Kumar 111\r\nMaximum response was recorded in kinetin 2 mg-1 where\r\nnumber of shoots per explant were highest (08) with an\r\naverage length of 2 + 2.5 cm. Reduction in number of shoots\r\nin all the concentrations higher than the optimal level has\r\nbeen reported for several plants (Sudha and Seeni, 1994).\r\nTable 1 : Effect of different concentration of growth regulators in MS medium for shoot proliferation.\r\nSupplements No. of No. of Average Average length Average no. Average leaf\r\nexplant responsive explants no. of shoots of shoots of leaves leaf area\r\nMS + 0.0 15 - - - - -\r\nMS + BA\r\n0.5 15 - - - - -\r\n1.0 15 - - - - -\r\n2.0 15 4 5 3.5 5 ± 6 2.5 ± 3\r\nMS+kinetin\r\n0.5 15 - - - - -\r\n1.0 15 9 3 2 ± 2.5 4 ± 5 1\r\n2.0 15 11 8 4 ± 4.5 9 ± 10 3\r\nMS + BA + Kn\r\n1.0 ±2.0 10 2 4(callus) 2 ± 2.5 3 ± 4 2\r\n2.0 + 2.0 10 3 8 ± 9 3 ± 4 7 ± 8 2\r\nIn BAP and Kinetin enriched media callus was formed\r\nfrom nodal stem segment. Callus developed into shoots(8\r\nto 9)with average length of 3 to 4 cm but on subculturing\r\nthe shoots were degenerated and no response was observed.\r\nMS medium augmented with BAP showed comparatively less\r\nresponse from kinetin.\r\nSubculturing was carried out after four weeks on to\r\nfresh medium with same composition. For kinetin the number\r\nof shoots per explant increased with increase in number of\r\nsubcultures.','Neha Parihar, Anant Sharma and Sanjay Kumar (2010).Shoot Proliferation of Aegle marmelos from nodal stem segment as explant. Biological Forum — An International Journal, 2(2): 109-111. '),(4728,'128','Mobility and transport of heavy metals in polluted soil environment','T. Sherene','24 T SHREENE.pdf','',1,'-','-','-','eavy Metals are defined as elements in the periodic\r\ntable having atomic number more than 20 or densities more\r\nthan 5g/cm3 generally excluding alkali metals and alkaline\r\nearth metals. The environmental problems with heavy metals\r\nare that they as elements are undestroyable and the most\r\nof them have toxic effects on living organisms when\r\nexceeding a certain concentration. Furthermore, some heavy\r\nmetals are being subjected to bioaccumulation and may pose\r\na risk to human health when transferred to the food chain.\r\nSoils, whether in urban or agricultural areas represent a major\r\nsink for metals released into the environment from a wide\r\nvariety of anthropogenic sources (Niragu, 1991).\r\nOnce in soil, some of these metals would be persistent\r\nbecause of their fairly immobile nature. Other metals however\r\nwould be more mobile therefore the potential of transfer\r\neither through soil profile down to ground water aquifer or\r\nvia plant - root uptake (bio available) is likely. When the\r\nfood chain is concerned, one has to take into account the\r\nmobility and the bio availability of metals, because plant\r\nuptake of metals parallels the bio available fractions of the\r\nmetals in soil.\r\nIn most soil environment sorption is the dominating\r\nspeciation process and thus the largest fraction of heavy\r\nmetal in a soil is associated with the solid phase of that\r\nsoil. Pollution problem arise when heavy metals are mobilized\r\ninto the soil solution and taken up by plants or transported\r\nto the surface/ground water. The properties of the soil are\r\nthus very important in the attenuation of heavy metals in\r\nthe environment. The solubility of heavy metals in soil is\r\ncontrolled by reactions with solid phases. Once sewage\r\nsludge is applied to soil, the heavy metal species undergo\r\nseveral possible fates including\r\n(i) Adsorption/desorption reactions\r\n(ii) Precipitation/dissolution reaction\r\n(iii) Plant uptake and\r\n(iv) a possible mobility thro\' soil profile\r\nSOURCES OF HEAVY METALS IN SOIL\r\nArsenic (As). It is poisonous and is used in herbicides, cattle\r\nand sheep dips and insecticides. Also as a desiccant for cotton\r\ncrop to facilitate the mechanical harvesting of the crop.\r\nCadmium (Cd). Soil contamination occurs by the addition\r\nof phosphatic fertilizers. (Containing 2-200 mg Cd/kg)\r\ndomestic and sewage sludge, wear of automobile tyres,\r\nlubricants and mining and metallurgical activities.\r\nChromium (Cr). Wastewater and sludge from dyeing and\r\ntanning industries are the major sources of chromium\r\npollution to the environment.\r\nLead (Pb) . Major sources of Pb pollution are exhaust gases\r\nof petrol engines, which account for nearly 80% of the\r\ntotal Pb in the air. Soils located near Pb mines may contain\r\nhigh as 0.5% Pb content. Apart from minerals, sources of\r\nPb are pesticides, fertilizer impurities, emissions from\r\nmining and smelting operations, an atmospheric fall out\r\nfrom the combustion of fossil fuels.\r\nMercury (Hg). Major contaminating sources of Hg are: Hg\r\nbased funcides, sewerge sludge and atmospheric fall out\r\nresulting from combustion of fossil fuels and industrial\r\nprocesses.\r\nNickel (Ni). Sources of Ni pollution, are: metal refining,\r\nsmelting, burning of coal and industrial sewage sludge.\r\nTable 1 : The heavy metal status of the sewage irrigated\r\nsoils of Coimbatore.\r\nMetals (mg kg-1) Surface Sub Surface\r\nCr 1.7 to 5.7 1.2 to 3.7\r\nCd 1.05 to 4.1 0.35 to 3.15\r\nPb 2.40 to 4.72 2.40 to 6.95\r\nNi 6.50 to 13.3 7.50 to 15.8\r\n–Sivagami et al., (2002)\r\nPerusal of mean data on heavy metal status indicated\r\nthat all the metals were within the safer limit with the values\r\nof 3.51 and 3.25 mg kg–1 for Pb, 2.39 and 1.07 mg kg–1\r\nfor Cd, 3.52 and 2.31 mg kg–1 for Cr and 8.76 to 11.24 mg\r\nkg–1 for Ni in surface and subsurface soil respectively.\r\nTable 2 : Speciation of heavy metals in the Sewage bio\r\nsolid.\r\nConcentration of trace elements/heavy\r\nFractions metals (mg kg-1)\r\nZn Fe Mn Cu Cd Cr Pb Ni\r\nWater soluble 0.95 29.5 6.75 5.25 0.50 9.25 8.55 10.3\r\nExchangeable 24 48.3 38 8.62 2.92 38.5 52.5 28.5\r\nOrganically 175 334 113 560 22.0 260 196 280\r\nbound\r\nCarbonate 282 1744 296 330 133 161 533 268\r\nResidual 1810 31800 1126 1638 620 1828 4558 2478\r\n–Chitdashwari (1999)\r\nThe order of fractions content of sewage biosolid for\r\nall the metals as follows :\r\nMobility and transport of heavy metals in polluted soil environment\r\nT. Sherene\r\nCotton Research Station, Veppanthattai, Perambalur, Tamilnadu\r\nISSN : 0975-1130\r\nBiological Forum — An International Journal, 2(2): 112-121(2010)\r\nSherene 113\r\nZn, Fe, Cd, Pb, Mn: Water soluble < Exchangeable + adsorbed < organically\r\nbound < carbonate bound < residual.\r\nCr, Ni : Water soluble < Exchangeable + adsorbed\r\n< carbonate bound < organically bound < residual. (Chitdashwari 1999)\r\nFactors influencing mobility and Adsorption of heavy metals\r\nin soils. Understanding the process governing the migration\r\nand plant availability of trace metals in soils is essential for\r\npredicting the environmental impact of spreading metal\r\ncontaining wastes on agricultural land. The adverse effect\r\nof heavy metals is inseparably related to the soil’s ability\r\nto adsorb and retain sub elements.\r\npH. The pH of the soil solution maintained at neutral to\r\nslightly alkaline condition showed low mobility of all heavy\r\nmetals. To increase the mobility of heavy metals, the pH of\r\nthe soil solution should be lowered. The solubility of Pb in\r\nsoil solution was pH dependent, increasing as the pH was\r\nadjusted from 6 to 3. At near neutral pH, the activity of\r\nPb2+ showed no clear relationship to pH and a small but\r\nsignificant increase resulting from changing organic matter\r\ncontent. In the near neutral pH range, higher Soil Organic\r\nMatter (SOM) increases the Dissolved Organic Matter\r\n(DOM), thereby promoting the formation of organo Pb\r\ncomplexes and increasing Pb solubility (Sebastien Sauve,\r\n1998). In acid soil, a mean value of 44% of the fractional\r\nsum of Cd is associated with the exchangeable form; there\r\nby enhance its mobility. There was about 10 times the\r\namount of Zn on exchange sites where the soil pH > 5.6\r\nCd (23%) is found in exchangeable form, implying that the\r\nmetal is relatively very mobile.\r\nIn general, sorption increases with increasing pH. That\r\nis, the lower the pH value the more metal can be found in\r\nsolution and thus more metal is mobilized. When pH falls\r\nto below 5 mobility is enhanced as a result of the increased\r\nproton concentration. At pH values above 7, some heavy\r\nmetals tend to form hydroxy – complexes which will increase\r\nthe solubility of the metal in question. Adsorption was\r\ngreater at pH 6.5 than at pH 4.5. The adsorption of cromate\r\ndid not change as significantly as other metals with pH\r\nchanges. This is due to its oxyanion character in oxidising\r\ncondition, and the adsorption mechanisms are very different\r\ncompared to that of positively charged metals. These results\r\nconfirm that adsorption for most metal cations increases as\r\npH increases.\r\nOrganic matter. Soil Organic Matter is a key for sorbing\r\nphase for metals. The dissolution of humic acid at higher\r\npH is responsible for dissolution of Cu and Pb from soil.\r\nOrganic matter is important for the retention of metals by\r\nsoil solids, thus decreasing mobility and bioavailability.\r\nHowever because of the complexation of metals by soluble\r\nOM, the addition of OM can result in release of metals\r\nfrom solids to the soil solution.The increase in the solubility\r\nof the Cu and Pb is related to the dissolution of the HA\r\ncomponent of the organic matter. This indicates that\r\nsolution phase speciation reactions with organic matter\r\ndominate the partition of these metals at higher pH. Because\r\nunder high pH, the DOM increases as a result solubility of\r\nHA.\r\nHigher solubility of heavy metals in soil solution at\r\nalkaline pH was attributed to enhanced formation of organic\r\nmatter metal complexes after ionization of weak acid groups.\r\nExtensive evidence exist that in this pH range most\r\ndissolved heavy metals are present as metal soluble organic\r\nligand complexes. The degree of stabilization achieved by\r\ncompost appears to be very important in determining\r\npotential mobility of heavy metals. Carillo et al., (2000)\r\nreported that, Cd can move readily in sandy loam soils, but\r\nOM in the surface layer will act as a sink for Cd and will\r\nreduce the rate of movement. Distruction of heavy metals\r\nbetween soil and solute is the key for evaluating the\r\nenvironment impact of the metals. For Cu, in particular OM\r\nboth solid and dissolved can affect its mobility substantially.\r\n(Temming hoff et al., 1997) The concentration of DOM is\r\npartly controlled by Ca by sorption. Ca can act as a bridge\r\nbetween negatively charged DOM and negatively charged\r\nsoil particles both clay mineral and oxides.The heterogenity\r\nof sorption sites is larges for natural solid OM than for\r\ndissolved purified HA.\r\nNaidu and Harter (1998) reported that, the role of\r\norganic acids in Cd mobilization is especially important\r\nsince modern agriculture increasingly involves minimum\r\ntillage practices that recycle plant residues. Complexation\r\nof metals by organic ligands play an important role in\r\ncontrolling metal solubility. Metal – ligand complex stability\r\ngenerally decreases with a reduction in pH, reflecting the\r\nrole of R COO - in metal complexation. The ligands include\r\nlow molecular weight organic acids including oxalic, citric,\r\nformic, acetic, malic, succinic, malonic, maleic, lactic, aconitic,\r\nand fumeric acids have been identified in soil system.\r\nHighest amount of Cd was released by malate and the least\r\nby acetate. To separate the pH effects from ligand ion effect,\r\nit was found that at high pH values, Cd-ligand ion\r\ncomplexation was essential for the solubilization of Cd.\r\nIonic strength. The amount of metals adsorbed decreases\r\nwith increasing ionic strength for minerals with permanent\r\nsurface charge density (Boekhold et al., 1993). Casagrande,\r\n(2001) reported that regardless of pH, Zn adsorption was\r\nalways superior for the most diluted CaCl2, solution utilized.\r\nThis shows that the reaction took place on the negative\r\nsurface of colloids. For these surfaces, the reduction of\r\nionic strength makes the surface electric potential more\r\nnegative, and thus ion adsorption is greater.\r\nIn high electrolyte conc. it is also necessary to take\r\ninto account the competition of Zn and the Ca present in\r\nthe soil. The more negative electro potential of the surface\r\nsoil layer explains the greater Zn adsorption at the surface\r\nfor all pH and ionic strength values, as the surface soil\r\nlayer presented more negative charges than the subsurface\r\nfor a same pH values. It is finally concluded that, there\r\nwas a pronounced increase of Zn adsorption with pH\r\nelevation and a reduction of ionic strength of background\r\nelectrolyte. Results showed that the metal ion was more\r\nstrongly adsorbed at lower ionic strengths while any\r\nincreases in electrolyte concentration produced a decrease\r\n114 Sherene\r\nin metral adsorption.\r\nAdsorption was in relation with the CEC, which\r\nobviously could be expected to influence the process at\r\neach value of ionic strength. In addition to that, increasing\r\nionic strengths decrease metal sorption because of the\r\ncompetion by other cations for adsorption sites. This soil\r\nwith higher ionic strength may have more risk of metal\r\nleaching from sewage sludge disposal that soil with lower\r\nionic strength.\r\nSoil texture. The soil texture plays an important role in\r\nmobility of metals in soil. Texture reflects the particle size\r\ndistribution of the soil and thus the content of fine particles\r\nlike oxides and clay. These compounds are important\r\nadsorption media for heavy metals in soils. The clay soil\r\nretains high amount of metals when compared to sandy\r\nsoil. Jeanne and Roy (1991) concluded that the fine textured\r\nsoils contain higher amounts of Pb (3889 mg kg-1) and\r\ncoarse textured soil contains (530 mg kg-1) lower amount of\r\nPb. Olaniya et al. (1992) reported that the metal content of\r\ntop and middle layer of soil was comparatively higher than\r\nbottom layer of soil. Jeyabaskaran and Sree Ramulu, (1996)\r\nconcluded that the content of DTPA- extractable metals in\r\nlight textured soils were low in soils irrigated with sewage\r\nwater for the past 50 years. The DTPA extractable metal\r\ncontents of clayey soils (40 years of sewage irrigation) were\r\nhigher than that of silty clay loam soil (50 years of irrigation)\r\nPore structure. Alesi et al. (1980) reported that the soil\r\ntexture, and structure as evaluated by bulk density i.e. the\r\nsolution flux.This plays a part in diffusion of metal ions\r\ninto and out of soil aggregates in such a way that movement\r\nof elements through soil may be predicated with greater\r\naccuracy by having some knowledge of flow velocities.\r\nThey also stated that flux was least effective for Ni.\r\nFacchinelli et al. (1999) found that the downward migration\r\nrate of Ni was 0.83 0.72 cm year-1 and was well correlated\r\nwith high soil macro porosity. Karathanasis (1999) reported\r\nthat colloids with high surface charge and soils with greater\r\nmacro porosity contributed more Pb mobility and transport.\r\nTemperature. Several chemical reactions are temperature\r\ndependant in the way that they proceed at a metal\r\nconcentration in plants grown on sewage sludge amended\r\nsoil. When the temperature raises the metal activity in the\r\nsoil solution as well as that the plant roots may be more\r\nactive and has faster absorption rates. Further more, the\r\nabsorption rate of the roots may be increased as a result\r\nof higher evapo transpiration from the plant. Yu Ling et al.,\r\n(1998) concluded that considerable enrichment of heavy\r\nmetals in the sub micron range occurs during evaporization\r\nof heavy metals in the high temperature environment and\r\nthe subsequent condensation in lower temperature regions\r\nof the systems.\r\nThermal treatment of Pb2+ doped alumina powder could\r\nbe effective in reducing the leaching level of Pb from the\r\nalumina matrix by H2SO4 – HNO3 in deinonized water. The\r\nresults of the sequential extraction of the thermally treated\r\nPb++ doped alumina powder showed that as the treatment\r\nduration and temperature increased the percentage of Pb\r\nthat was bound to the carbonates decreased with a\r\nconcomitnant increase of residual Pb. Sheaffer etal., (1980)\r\nreported that, higher soil temperature enhances the\r\ndegradation soil organic matter, thereby releasing organic\r\nacids, which increase the mobility of heavy metals in soils.\r\nThereby the availability is increased.\r\nResidual Time. Time after application of the sludge, the\r\nso-called residual time, may affect the mobility and thus\r\nthe metal content in the plants growing on it. When the\r\norganic matter applied with the sludge is decomposed\r\nsorption sites are lost and the accompanying pH decrease\r\nalso affects the desorption of heavy metals. It has been\r\nshown that the metal content increased in successively\r\nharvested plants grown on a sewage sludge amended soil.\r\nThus, the available heavy metals in the amended soil may\r\nchange over time. It has also been argued that a fraction\r\nof the organic matter is resistant to degradation and will\r\nprovide protection against plant uptake and leachability of\r\nthe metals on a long term basis.\r\nIndex cations and anions. The anion which can contribute\r\nin reducing heavy metal adsorption by the possible\r\nformation of negatively charged or neutral species like:\r\nMCl2, Mcl–\r\n3, and Mcl–\r\n4. In particular Cd is known to form\r\nrelatively stable Cl– complexes, which greatly influences the\r\nmobility of metals in soils. This fact is of particular\r\nimportance since the ability of Cl– ions to maintain relatively\r\nhigh concentration of heavy metals in soil solution may\r\nproduce favourable condition for a faster leaching of metals\r\nin the soil profile according to the soil texture or irrigation\r\ncondition. Avudainayagam et al., (1997) concluded that, the\r\namount of Cr desorbed varied with both the cationic charge\r\nand with depth of soil sample. In the surface soils, the\r\ndesorbed Cr decreased with increasing cationic charge\r\n(Water > Na+ > Ca++). While the reverse trend (Ca++ > Na+\r\n> Water) was observed in the subsurface soils.There was a\r\nstrong effect of P (Na+ + 0.003 MP > Ca++ + 0.003 MP) in\r\nsurface soils and Ca++ +0.003M >Na+ + 0.003M> water in\r\nsub surface soils. Highest Cr was released in the presence\r\nof phosphate solutions and least when Cl– solution was\r\nused as the leaching electrolyte.\r\nOn the other hand, the lessened adsorption capacity\r\nof soils with respect to heavy metals due to the high\r\nconcentration of salts could increase the availability of these\r\ncontaminants to plants. Yujun Yin et al. (1995) found that\r\nCl- ion could be an important factor enhancing Pb and Ni\r\nmobility in soil. Mobilization of Pb in contaminated roadside\r\nsoils is suspected because chlorides are known to complex\r\nand solubilizing many heavy metals like Pb and Ni. (Amrhein\r\nand Strong, 1990). Approximately 100,000 tonnes of road\r\nsalt NaCl is applied annually as a deicing salt in the Detroit\r\nMetropolitan area (Annon, 1992). Hence it is possible that\r\nthe observed mobilization is partly the result of Pb\r\ncomplexation with Cl–.\r\nSmolders et al. (1998) found that Pb may also form\r\ncomplexes more readily with NO–\r\n3 rather than Cl–. This\r\nSherene 115\r\nmight be due to the anionic competition between Pb\r\nhydroxide species and Cl– or NO–\r\n3. Jeffery and James (1993)\r\nreported that Pb had been mobilized in vadose zone at the\r\ncontaminated urban sites studied, and was hypothesized\r\nthat chlorides derived from deicing salts were responsible.\r\nDiyab et al. (2000) reported that phosphates and alumino\r\nphosphate minerals containing Pb are weakly soluble and\r\nquite stable in numerous soils thereby low mobility.\r\nKhan et al. (2000) indicated the presence of NH4\r\n+, Na+,\r\nK+ and Ca++ as cations and NO3\r\n–, Cl–, SO4\r\n2– and PO4\r\n3– as\r\nanions released from applied fertilizers could be regarded\r\nto play a dominant role in mobility of Pb and Ni in soil\r\nbecause of blocking of adsorptive site by the above said\r\nions. Faud Ababneb et al., (2001) reported that the major\r\ncations Ca++, Mg++, Na+, K+ at the high concentrations that\r\nthey are present in the water samples have greater effect in\r\nreleasing Ni2+ ions from DOC bound Ni thereby increased\r\nmobility. Smolders et al., (1998) reported that, neither\r\nosmotic stress at high salt levels nor ion exchange of Na+\r\nor Cd 2+ are mechanisms that explain the effect of NaCl on\r\nincreasing Cd concentration in plants. Mobility of Cd in\r\nsoil is increased at higher Cl– concentration due to the\r\nincreased concentration of Cd in the liquid phase. This\r\neffect can be important if the transport of Cd in soil toward\r\nplant roots limits the uptake from soil. The effect of Cl– on\r\nCd uptake could be explained by (i) Cd Cln\r\n2–n species which\r\ndo not adsorb on soil or clay in solution are also available\r\nfor plant uptake (in addition to Cd2+). (ii) Cl– enhances\r\ndiffusion of Cd++ through the apoplast to sites of Cd uptake\r\nto the root itself.\r\nAmendments and Additives. Friesl et al., (2000) found that\r\nin unpolluted soils, the mobile fraction of heavy metals is\r\nsmall compared to total concentration however may increase\r\nconsiderably in polluted soils and hence be hazardous to\r\nthe ground water or food chain. Due to the lack of low\r\ncost, environmentally sound decontamination technique for\r\nheavy metal contaminated soils the immobilization by soil\r\nadditives can provide a technique to lower the risk of metal\r\nmobility, bioavailability and toxicity. The Shale can be used\r\nas an amendment in soil detoxification because it possesses\r\ngreat sorbability, and markedly reduced the mobility of\r\nheavy metals.\r\nTable 3 : Effect of amendments on NH4 NO3 extractable\r\nand plant uptake of metals in soils (mg kg–1).\r\nSoils Test Zn Cd Ni\r\nI Control 1.63 b 0.11 b 0.65 b\r\n+ red mud (1%) 0.60 a 0.06 a 0.32 a\r\n+ Zeolite (2%) 1.54 b 0.11 b 0.62 b\r\n+ lime (0.3%) 1.41 b 0.10 b 0.61 b\r\nI I Control\r\n+ red mud (1%) 159.1 4.03 2.56\r\n+ Zeolite (2%) 149.6 3.77 2.67\r\n+ lime (0.3%) 158.9 4.22 2.96\r\nAdditives used are, red mud (10g kg–1 soil), Zeolite\r\n(20g kg–1) lime (3g kg–1). Red mud was the only amendment\r\nthat decreased extractability and pH uptake of Zn, Cd\r\nand Ni continuously. Red mud performed well in the 15\r\nmonths pot study but the results have to be evaluated\r\nin long term field experiment. EDTA enhanced phyto\r\nremediation assisted by strong, barely degradable chelates\r\nis likely to increase the risk of ground water pollution during\r\nthe phyto extraction process.\r\nTable 4 : Effect of gypsum on the transport of trace\r\nmetals (mg kg–1).\r\nTreatments Cu Zn Cu Mg DOC\r\nControl 0.32 0.12 272.0 46.1 83.2\r\nGypsum (4.g Mg ha-1) 0.15 0.06 445.1 70.9 48.7\r\nGypsum (9 Mg ha-1) 0.10 0.08 572.5 92.3 33.4\r\nMg So4 (6.3 Mg ha-1) 0.23 0.09 509.9 228.5 72.8\r\nK2So4 (9.2 Mg ha-1) 0.49 0.18 399.6 65.4 140.8\r\nZhu and Alva, (1993).\r\nTransport of considerable amount of Cu and Zn from\r\nthe unamended soils was indicated by the recovery of\r\nthese metals in the leachate fraction. Fig. In sandy soils\r\namended with gypsum or Mg SO4, Concentration of Cu\r\nand Zn in the leachate fractions decreased significantly\r\ncompared with that from the unamended soil. At equivalent\r\nrates of cation addition, the transport of Cu and Zn from\r\nthe soil amended with gypsum was less than that from the\r\nunamended or Mg So4 amended soil; however application\r\nof K2SO4 increased the transport of Cu and Zn compared\r\nwith that from the unamended soil.\r\nIn order to investigate the role of organic ligands in\r\ntransport of Cu and Zn, concentrated of DOC was\r\nmeasured in the leachate. Cumulative DOC recovered the\r\nleachate was greater in the K2SO4 amended soil than that\r\nin other treatment. This implied that the gypsum or Mg\r\nSO4 amendments decreased the transport of DOC. Increased\r\norganic carbon in the leachate may have increased the\r\nchelation of metals, resulting in an increase in their solubility\r\nand transport. Soil management factors that increase\r\ndispersion of organic matter and transport of DOC eg.\r\nK2SO4 amendment in this study, is more likely to increase\r\nthe transport of trace metals in soils. On the other hand,\r\napplication of gypsum or Mg SO4, improves soil physical\r\nand chemical properties thus minimizing the transport of\r\nDocOC and the metals complexed with it. Myrtveit (1999)\r\nreported that, mobility of heavy metal is enhanced by\r\nincreasing acidity. But liming decreased the mobility of Zn\r\nand Cd in organic horizon.\r\nThe capacity of several additives i.e. Thomas\r\nphosphate basic slag, hydrous iron oxide (HFO) , hydrous\r\nmanganese oxides (HMO) and Beringete were tested to see\r\ntheir immobilizing effect of Cd and Pb in soil (Michel et al.,\r\n1994). The maximum decrease in mobility and plant uptake\r\nof Cd and Pb should be mainly related to the solubility\r\nand sorption mechanisms, particularly the reactive sites on\r\nthe surface layer of HMO that could bind Cd or Pb. (Khattak\r\nand Page, 1992). Point zero charge (PZC) values for HMO\r\nranged from 1.5 to 2.0, whereas those of HFO were 8.0 –\r\n116 Sherene\r\n8.5. At pH values, higher than the PZC, HMO is negatively\r\ncharged and has a CEC that increases with increasing pH.\r\nTherefore HMO has a high adsorption capacity for Cd. Also,\r\nreduction in Cd uptake can be partly related to the Mn\r\nadded with HMO, causing increased Mn conc. in plants\r\nfrom HMO treated soils. It is known that Cd and Mn ions\r\ncompete during the uptake process and that the effect of\r\nCd on plant metabolism could be reversed by Mn\r\napplication.\r\nSlope. Korentajer et al., (1993) reported that, slope affects\r\nthe amount of sediment yield and run off volume and\r\ntherefore the amounts of Cd transported from the\r\ncontaminated soil in the various phase. Transport and\r\nfractionation of soil aggregates taking place during the run\r\noff event. At low slope angle and low runoff flow velocity\r\nsoil loss is mainly due to sheet flow as a result of inter rill\r\nerosion. Sheet flow lacks sufficient velocity to transport\r\nsand particles, which consequently, during sheet flow, clay\r\nsized particles are transported in preference to sand\r\nparticles, resulting in a selective enrichment of the sediment\r\nwith clay and Cd.\r\nTable 5 : Effect of slope on clay and Cd enrichment ratios in the sediment.\r\nSoil Slope %\r\n10 20 30 40\r\nClay Cd Clay Cd Clay Cd Clay Cd\r\nJogine 1.61 1.83 1.92 1.11 0.99 1.19 0.77 0.63\r\nMsinga 1.37 1.43 1.22 1.36 1.24 1.24 1.22 1.19\r\nNbgagu 1.11 1.05 n.d 1.02 n.d 1.00 1.11 1.00\r\nKorentajer et al.,(1993)\r\nThe effect of slope on sediment Cd enrichment ratio\r\nwas, in general, similar to the effect of slope on clay\r\nenrichment ratio indicating that Cd is transported mostly in\r\nthe clay fraction.In highly eroded soil (Mngagi) as well as\r\nlow erodabiity soil (Msinga), an increase in slope did not\r\nsignificantly affect the clay enrichment ratio indicating that\r\nCd is transported mostly in the clay fraction. In highly\r\neroded soil (Mngagi) as well as low erodabiity soil\r\n(Msinga), an increase in slope did not significantly affect\r\nthe clay enrichment ratio and the concentration of clay\r\nassociated Cd in the sediment. This finding underscores\r\nthe danger of surface water contamination by sediment\r\nassociated Cd transported from areas contaminated by\r\nsurface deposition of Cd. In particular, process such as\r\nreplacement of adsorbed Cd by Ca++ (for eg. addition of\r\nphospho gypsum) and decrease in soil surface pH (due to\r\nacid rain) may increase the soluble Cd runoff load.\r\nMetal Speciation. Sadler et al., (1994) reported that As\r\nmobility in soil is affected by the species of As present\r\nand the nature of the soils involved. As (111) is more mobile\r\nthan As (V).\r\nDeicing Salts. Amrhein et al., (1994) reported that, Calcium\r\nmagnesium Acetate (CMA) is an alternative to NaCl for\r\nsnow and ice removal on roads and at airports (Trans. Res.\r\nBoard, 1991). However, there has been some concern that\r\nCMA may increase trace metals mobilization from road side\r\nsoils, because acetate is stronger ligand than Cl– and\r\ndivalent cations may displace metals from exchange sites.\r\nAmrhein and Strong (1990) showed that the aerobic\r\ndecomposition of the acetate in CMA resulted in the\r\nprecipitation of CaCO3 and the immobilization of Cd as a\r\nCd precipitate with the Ca CO3. Low redox conditions\r\nresulting from CMA decomposition could have a strong\r\ninfluence on trace metal solubility as well.\r\nSoil Colloids. Karathanasis (2000) reported that, most heavy\r\nmetals are generally considered relatively immobile in sub\r\nsurface soil environment. However, under certain condition\r\ntheir mobility may be accelerated by potential contributions\r\nby mobile colloidal particles acting as metal carriers or\r\nfacilitators to ground water. Contrary to initial findings\r\nemphasizing organic colloids as the primary contaminant\r\ncarries; more recent research has documented similar or\r\ngreater potential for metal facilitated transport by mineral\r\ncolloid particles. The presence of colloids increased the\r\ntransport of both soluble and colloid sorbed metal fraction.\r\nColloid mediated transport increased with colloid surface\r\ncharge, pH, organic carbon and soil macroporosity and was\r\ninhibited by increasing colloid size., quartz and sesquioxide\r\ncontent. Metal mobility and load carrying capacity followed\r\nthe mineralogical sequence montmorillinite > mixed > illitic\r\n> Kaiolinite.\r\nFlushing Pb–contaminated soil columns with\r\nuncontaminated colloid suspensions resulted in Pb–\r\ndesorption and remobilization up to 50 times greater\r\ncompared to that of de ionized water solution. Organically\r\nenriched colloids were less effective metal desorber than\r\nmineral colloids due to their lower binding energy, but\r\ncaused greater soluble Pb mobilization through formation\r\nof organo metallic complexes. A stronger specific metal\r\nsorption affinity for the colloid surface than for the soil\r\nmatrix appeared to be the dominant mechanisms facilitating\r\nmetal transport.\r\nCompeting ions. Competing ions can have a marked effect\r\non ion sorption by soils. Chien et al. (1992) found that\r\npresence of Pb did significantly reduce the adsorption\r\nmaximum of Cd on soils. Fernandez et al. (1999) found that\r\nthere is a positive correlation exist between Mn and Ni, Ni\r\nand Cu, Ni and Fe, Pb and Cu, Pb and Fe, Pb and Mn in\r\nsoils.The presence and competitiveness of Cr (III) in a\r\nmultiple ion mix will greatly reduce the amount of Pb2+\r\nsorbed, thereby drastically increasing their mobility and\r\npotential for transport to ground water. Mandal Rupasri\r\n(2000) reported that, the stability constant for the Pb2+- FA\r\ncomplexes decrease with increasing concentrations of trace\r\nSherene 117\r\nmetals such as Cu++ and Mn2+ and Ni2+ – FA by Ca++ and\r\nMg++. This might be due to the polyelectrolyte effect.\r\nMinkina and Samokhin (2000) found that a decrease in Pb\r\nadsorption is related to the abundance of Ca2+ ions as well\r\nas other cations available in the solution.\r\nHarter (1992) reported that Ni2+ and Co++ compete\r\nequally with Ca++ only at very low solution activities. The\r\nNi2+ adsorption was accompanied by an equal Ca++\r\ndesorption indicating that Ni2+ ions were retained at sites\r\npreviously occupied by Ca++. The Ni++ sorption has no\r\neffect on Cu++ adsorption by reducing a Mn ion, creating\r\nan adsorption site. The Ni2+ should compete with Co2+ (but\r\nnot Co3+) for site occupation and Co2+ sorption should be\r\ndepressed by increasing Ni2+ activity.\r\nSynthetic chelators. D’Souza et al (1983) reported that\r\nleaching the soil with dilute solution of 10M EDTA, EDDHA\r\nand DTPA resulted in enhancement of the mobility of all\r\nthese heavy metals with a high degree of chelate specificity\r\nfor individual ions depending upon the soil type. Rapid\r\nformation of stable soluble Cr-EDDHA, Pu-DTPA and AM\r\n– DTPA complexes facilitate the leaching of these pollutants\r\nfrom the contaminated soils.\r\nMicrobial metabolites. Wildung et al., (1979) reported that,\r\nsoil bacteria and fungi produced soluble exocellular\r\nmetabolites which complexed Ni on elution of exocellular\r\nsolutions through soil column. The mobility of complexed\r\nNi on elution of exocellular solutions through soil was\r\ndepend out upon the charge and molecular weight of the\r\ncomplex, the affinity of the ligend for Ni the conc. of Ni in\r\nsolution. Neutral and anionic Ni complexes with apparent\r\nmolecular weight less than 1200 arising from fungal\r\nmetabolism were most mobile in soil increasing Ni mobility\r\nby up to 1000 times relative to inorganic Ni. A single Ni\r\ncomplex responsible for the most pronounced increases in\r\nNi mobility in soil consisted of several ligands capable of\r\ncomplexing Ni independently and exhibiting both positive\r\nand negative charge after separation from the original\r\ncomplex ligend.\r\nPhenolic substances. The mobility of heavy metals was\r\nlargely influenced by the chemical structure of the phenolic\r\nacids. The affinity of pthalic acid to metals was much less\r\nthan that of phenolic acids.The amount of mobility with\r\nsalicylic and pthalic acids increased as the soil pH\r\ndecreased. The results showed that chelating phenolics such\r\nas proto catechuic acid and salicylic acids, which were\r\nexuded from plant residues or produced during the decaying\r\nprocess of plant residues enhances mobility of Fe, Al, and\r\nMn from soil particles and accelerated the downward\r\nmovement of these metal ions.\r\nHerbicides. Morrillo et al. (1999) reported that Glyphosate\r\nhas three groups (amine, carboxylate, phosphonate) that\r\ncan form strong coordination bonds with metal ions,\r\nparticularly with the hard transition metal ions. This ability\r\nplaces glyphosate in an almost unique class of strongly\r\nchelating herbicides.\r\nThe addition of urban waste compost to the soil\r\nincreased the Cu adsorption capacity. The cu retained by\r\nthe soils cannot be removed passing an electrolyte solution\r\nthrough the soil column, but it is removed to a great extent\r\nby passing a glyphosate solution. This is probably due to\r\nthe formation of very strong Cu-glyphosate complexes in\r\nsolution that have lower tendency to be adsorbed on the\r\nsoils than free cu. It indicates the high extracting power of\r\nthis herbicide showing its potential in remediation of metal\r\ncontaminated soils.\r\nFertilizer and soil amendments. Raven and Laeppert (1998)\r\nreported the trace element concentration of different\r\nfertilizers and amendments. Heavy metal concentrated N\r\nfertilizers including urea, ammonium nitrate and calcium\r\nnitrate have been reported to range between 0 and\r\n3000 μg g-1 (Popova, 1991; Severin et al. 1990).\r\nTable 6 : Heavy Metal composition of fertilizer and soil amendments.\r\nS.No. Sample Cdμg g–1 Coμg g-1 Crμg g–1 Niμg g–1 Pbμg g–1\r\n1. Urea <0.2 <0.7 ND <0.2 <0.4\r\n2. Ammonium nitrate <0.2 <0.07 ND <0.2 <0.4\r\n3. Ammonium sulfate <0.3 <0.07 2.14 <0.2 <0.4\r\n4. MAP <0.3 0.78 ± 0.62 16.9 0.6 ± 0.4 <0.2\r\n5. DAP 4.6 3.24 ± 0.30 ND 22.2 2.9\r\n6. Triple Super PO4 5.0 6.61 ± 0.49 88.9 ± 4.8 25.2 11.1\r\n7. Kcl <0.2 < 0.07 < 1.05 <0.2 <0.4\r\n8. North Corolina RP 48.8 < 0.08 140 ± 7 16.8 4.6\r\n9. Tilemsi RP 1.3 19.6 33.2 ± 3.2 50.4 29.2\r\n10. Calcite 0.7 < 0.08 ND 1.4 1.1\r\n11. Dolomite <0.2 0.03 ± 0.09 32.3 ± 1.8 3.3 0.7\r\n12. Manures 0.7 2.23 ± 0.54 ND ND 0.7\r\n13. Compost 1 0.5 3.57 ± 0.69 14.4 ± 1.3 14.4 7.5\r\n–Raven and Laeppert (1997)\r\n118 Sherene\r\nA similar trace element concentration range has been\r\nreported for K fertilizer such as potassium chloride and\r\nsulfate and for composted municipal waste ( Sposito, 1983;\r\nPopova, 1991). The trace element concentration in manure\r\nsamples have been reported to reach 900 μg g-1 (Popova,\r\n1991). Trace metal concentration upto 10,000 μg g-1 have\r\nbeen reported for ammonium PO4, Super PO4, liming material\r\nand sewage sludge samples (Amaral Sobinho et al., 1992).\r\nRP generally had the highest reported trace element\r\nconcentrated leaching the 100,000 μg g-1 level. (Amaral\r\nSobrinho et al., 1992).\r\nAdsorption and Retention of heavy metals in soils. The\r\nadsorption maxima is positively correlated with pH and\r\norganic carbon content. This is because concentration of\r\nmonovalent Cu oH+ ions which are known to be adsorbed\r\nin much greater quantities than divalent (Cu++) ions which\r\nincreases rapidly with increasing pH of the medium.\r\nBesides, increase in pH decreases positive charge and or\r\nincrease negative charges on the soil colloidal surface. This\r\nis more so in case of Alfisols which are known to have\r\nhigh amount of pH dependent charge. The positive\r\ncorrelation between adsorption maxima and OM content of\r\nthe soil might be explained by the fact that Cu could get\r\ncomplexed very strongly with the latter because of its\r\nunique ability to form rigid inner sphere complex.\r\nLangmuir adsorptiopn equation\r\nC/x/m = 1/Kb + C/b\r\nFreundlich adsorption equation\r\nlog (x/m) = log kf + 1/n log C\r\nWhere in C = Equilibrium heavy metal concentration (ìg ml–1 ) ; x/m =Amount\r\nof metal sorbed by soil (g g–1) ; b = Sorption Maxima ; K = Bonding Energy\r\n(L mg–1)\r\nFreundlich Adsorption Isotherm. The Freundlich Kd values\r\nwhich are analogues to stability constants for complexes,\r\ncorrelated significant and negatively with pH (r = 0.84xx)\r\nand organic carbon. With increase in pH, Kd increased due\r\nto increased ionisation of functional groups on organic acids\r\nand of binding sites on oxide surfaces. (Saha et al., 1995).\r\nSimultaneous sorption of Cd, Cu, Ni, Pb and Cr on soils\r\ntreated with sewage sludge supernatant. Components that\r\npartition more strongly to the solid phase exhibit low\r\nmobility in soils while those that partition more strongtly\r\nto liquid phase have greater mobility and may ultimately\r\ncontaminate the ground water. Accumulation of heavy\r\nmetals in surface soils has been reported from SS\r\napplication.\r\nComplexatn of metals by organic ligands is one of the\r\nmechanical controlling the available and mobility of metals.\r\nFormation of soluble organs metal complexes increases\r\navailability and mobiity of trace metals.\r\nOn the other hand, formation of metal complexes with\r\nsolid phase organics may increases the partitioning of metals\r\ntoward the solid phase. Therefore OM may be an important\r\nfactor influencing the retension of trace metals by soils.\r\nStability of complexes varies among metals and among\r\norganic ligands for the same metal. Cu forms a relatively\r\nstrong 1:1 complex with acidic functional groups in fulvic\r\nacid extracted from sewage sludge complexation of Cu by\r\nthe carboxylate group of HA results in formation of a\r\nunidentate complex (i.e., a single M – O bond). Cd\r\ncomplexatn with organic ligands is much weaker than that\r\nfor Cu. Sorption affinities of metals to solid – phase\r\nsurfaces are very different among metals which is reflected\r\nby the sorption maxima and competition among ions.\r\nEg. Cu adsorption was not significantly affected by Zn\r\naddition upto 250 μg mL–1 , although the presence of Cu\r\neven at a concentration of 15 μg mL–1, completely\r\nprevented Zn sorption in one soil.\r\nSorptn of Cu, Ni & Co occurred in the order of Cu >\r\nNi ~ Co in a Ca – saturated soil (Harter, 1992). Cu caused\r\na significant decrease in Ni sorption, but Cu sorption was\r\nnot affected by Ni. It was concluded that Ni was retained\r\nby an exchange mechanism, but Co and Cu sorption was\r\nmore complex (Harter, 1992). Addition of Ni or Cu only\r\naffected Zn adsorption when metal concentration in solution\r\nwere in excess of the soil sorption capacity.\r\nThe correlation between SOM and the sorption of the\r\nmetals may be explained by formation of organo –metal\r\ncomplexes. To estimate the stability of organic complexes\r\nwith metals of the contributionn of metal partitioning\r\nbetween solid and solution, speciation of metals at pH 4.5\r\nand 6.5 is necessary.\r\nMetal complexes c acetate also increase from pH 4.5 to\r\n6.5 while hydroxyl forms of the metals are negligable. At\r\nhigh pH, the stronger adsorption results from the\r\ndissociation of functional group on the organic phase due\r\nto less competition from H+. Thus, the sorption trend of\r\nthe metals was a result of a combination of metal complexes\r\nwith both DOM in the solution phase and organic matter\r\non the solid phase, as well as competition among metal\r\nions. In the case of disposal of sewage sludge, high OM\r\nconcentration are introduced to the soil system. The DOM\r\ncould be adsorbed rapidly on the soil.\r\nCr was the most weakly adsorbed ion among all the\r\nelements and there was no correlation between Cr sorption\r\nand SOM content at either pH 4.5 or 6.5. This is due to\r\nhexavalent form (CrO4\r\n2– or Hcro–4). The CrO4\r\n2–fraction\r\nincrease and HCrO4\r\n– decreases as pH changes from 4.5 to\r\n6.5. It’s adsorption should decrease as pH increaess due to\r\nincrease of negative charge on the solid phase. In contrast\r\nto theory, sorption of Cr was higher at pH 6.5 than at pH\r\n4.5; Pb was most strongly adsorbed element. Studies of Pb\r\nchemical fraction and solubility on 3 surface soils containing\r\nhigh Pb levels showed that <0.07% of the Pb was in\r\nexchangable form. Therefore Pb was present dominantly in\r\nnon exchangeable forms associated primarily with the\r\norganic and residual fractions in two of the three soils and\r\npredominantly specifically bound to inorganic sites in the\r\nthird soil. The results suggested that 99% of the Pb\r\npartitioned in the solid phase. Cd and Ni are weekly\r\nadsorbed metals. Cd contamination has the greatest potential\r\nfor limiting application of sludge on land because of its\r\nrelatively high mobility in the soil environment. The sorption\r\nof Cd was studied in three soils that were unamended,\r\nfreshly amended, or pre-conditioned with γ – irradiated\r\nSherene 119\r\nsewage sludge. Results showed that Cd sorption was\r\ngreatest in unamended soils, less in soils preconditioned\r\nwith sludge and the least in the freshly amended soil.\r\nComparison among Kd values for all the soils and the\r\namount of metal adsorbed at the 50 μg mL–1 , addition\r\nindicates the following selectivity of metals.\r\nPb > Cu > Zn > Ni > Cd ~ Cr at pH 4.5\r\nPb > Cu ~ Zn > Cd > Ni > Cr at pH 6.5\r\nPb, Cu and Zn – strongly adsorbed\r\nCd, Ni & CrO4 – weakly adsorbed\r\nTherefore leaching of Cd, Ni, CrO4 is most probable\r\nfor this soils studied. Disposal of sewage sludge in this\r\nstudy is unlikely to increase leaching of Pb, Cu, Zn in\r\nthese soils in the short term, especially due to the near\r\nneutral to alkaline pH values.\r\n The risk of elevating certain element levels such as Cr, Cd\r\nand Ni still exists depending on the sorption capacity of\r\nthe soil, the composition of sewage sludge and application\r\nrate and frequency.\r\n The metal sorption strength at low metal loading was\r\nrelated to OM concentration and surface area. This suggests\r\nthat SOM plays an important role as well as pH.\r\n Further disposal of sewage sludge has been reported to\r\nraise SOM concentration which may alleviate the risk of\r\nmetal contamination to a certain extent.\r\n However long term effects of sewage sludge disposal on\r\nthe environment need further studies under specific\r\nenvironment condition.\r\nTable 7 : Distribution coefficient (Kd) for Cd with\r\nincreasing Ca Concentration\r\nCa Distribution Coefficient (Kd)\r\nConcentration\r\nM/L Lamporecchio Sobretta Prentano\r\n0.005 0.14 1.97 0.92\r\n0.010 0.06 0.75 0.70\r\n0.025 0.05 0.55 0.55\r\n0.050 0.02 0.35 0.44\r\nSource: (Suduan gao et al., 1995)\r\nAt low concentration of Cu had such a high affinity\r\nfor the adsorbing surfaces of the soil that it is completely\r\nadsorbed. As the concentration of the metal increases more\r\nsites on adsorbing surfaces of soil are filled it becomes\r\nmore difficult for Cu to find available sites. In these soils,\r\nthe quantity of adsorbed metal approaching the saturation\r\nat every value of ionic strength. This is observed in the\r\ncase of Orentano and Sobretta soils (Freundlich type).\r\nIn the case of Lamporecchio soil adsprption isotherm\r\ncould be classified as Langmuir type showing a lower\r\naffinity of this soil for the metal. Also, in this soil adsorbed\r\nCu seems to reach saturation which means that the metal\r\nhad filled all possible available sites and further adsorption\r\ncould take place only on few surfaces.\r\nTo conclude, the decrease of Cu and Cd adsorption\r\nwith increasing ionic strength can be attributed mainly to\r\nthe increasing competition of Ca for the adsorption sites of\r\nthe soil. Moreover, the adsorption of Ca may lead to an\r\nincrease of positive charges at the soil adsorbing surfaces\r\nand this in turn reduces the heavy metals adsorption.\r\nADVERSE EFFECTS OF METAL MOBILITY\r\nHeavy metals in ground water of Madras City. Selvapath\r\nand Lakshmi, (1995) reported that out of the 76 water\r\nsamples Cd was present in two sample but the levels are\r\nabove the acceptable limit. Though Zn was present in\r\nmajority of the samples, the percentage of samples in which\r\nthe levels were above the acceptable limit never exceeded\r\nfor Fe and Mn were not only detected in majority of\r\nsamples but their levels were also above the acceptable\r\nlimit in most instances. Cu was detected in significant\r\nnumber of samples but only in few samples the levels\r\nexceeded the acceptable limit. Ni was detected in a sizable\r\nnumber of samples and in > 88% of them the levels were\r\nabove the guideline value of 0.02 mg/l.\r\nImpact of textile industries on the ground water quality of\r\nTirupur.\r\nContamination of Noyyal river. Thompson et al., (1995)\r\nreported that, Noyal river a Tributory of Cauvery, Dye mid\r\n– effluent samples contain, higher amount of pb. The studies\r\non the ground water quality of industrial site of Tiruppur,\r\nsuggested that effluents are let into the dry noyyal river\r\nthe environmental issues are prominent. The concentration\r\nof heavy metals like Zn, Pb, Cd were also higher when\r\ncompared with the Indian standards for drinking water. The\r\nheavy metals like Zn, Pb, Cd exceeded the permissible level\r\nin both tube and open wells. Ground water mining\r\nassociation the industrial is common in this area. Non point\r\nsources, especially run-off from these index units are how\r\nby far the principle sources of both environmental and toxic\r\nwater pollutants in this area.\r\nMobility of heavy metals and ground water quality. (Patel\r\nand Shrivastava, 1999) found that, the textile, dying and\r\nprinting industrial effluents have an adverse effect on the\r\nsoil ground water eco systems. It is due to leachates of\r\ncationic and anionic species from textiles effluents through\r\nsoil strata. A comparison of collected data clearly indicates\r\nthat about 3-8 fold increase in the conc. of all parameters\r\nof effluent amended soil that control site.\r\nTextile, dying and printing industrial effluent:\r\nCa > Na > Mg > h > Zn > Cr > Fe > Hg > Pb >\r\nCu > Cd > As > Ni\r\nGround water near industrial area\r\nCa > Mg > Na > k > Zn > Fe > Cr > Pb > Hg >\r\nNi > Cu > Cd > As\r\nSoil affected by industrial effluents\r\nCa > Mg > Na > k > Fe > Zn > Cr > Cu > Pb >\r\nNi > Hg > Cd\r\nUnless, this soils are managed properly, it may lead to\r\nsevere land and ground water pollution affecting various\r\ncomponentt of the soil eco system.\r\nCr Contamination of water resources and soils of Carpet\r\nindustrial area of eastern Uttar Pradesh. Singh et al., (2001)\r\nreported that, high levels of Cr in ground water samples\r\nindicate the leaching of metal released from the industry. It\r\nhas been shown that Cr (V1) has high mobility than Cr (III)\r\n120 Sherene\r\nand that the latter is preferentially retained by the soil.\r\nThey have also shown that a part of Cr (III) can be oxidized\r\nin the prevailing soil conditions to Cr (VI). The waste water\r\nof carpet industry contains both these forms and thus\r\npollution of soil by adsorption of Cr (III) and that of water\r\nby Cr (VI) becomes possible from one polluting source.\r\nGenerally, contaminate move in soil by preferential glow\r\ni.e., this flow can enhance chemical mobility by moving\r\ncontaminants through macropores instead of moving them\r\nthrough soil matrix where they could be adsorbed,\r\nchemically degraded or biologically transformed. There is a\r\npositive correlation between heavy metal in soil and coarse\r\nsand content.\r\nThe downward migration of Cd, Pb and Cr were\r\npositively correlated with fine sand content, suggesting the\r\nmobility of trace metals is enhanced by high soil macro\r\nporosity.\r\nStudies on the concentration of Pb and Cd in milk of Cow\r\nand Buffalo in Madras City. (Ayyadurai et al., 2000)\r\nconcluded that,\r\n1. Buffalo milk contained higher levels of Pb in comparison\r\nto that in cow milk in all the samples analysed.\r\n2. Pb concentration in Parrys and Anna Nagar area were\r\nhigher than those in Adayar, Mambalam, triplicane.\r\n3. Pb concentration in milk showed appreciable difference\r\nbetween zones.\r\n4. The level of Pb in all the samples were below the stipulated\r\npermissible limit.\r\n5. Cd concentration was below detectable limit in all samples\r\ninvestigated.\r\nTable 8 : Lead concentration in the milk (μg/l) of cow\r\nand buffalo in difference zone of Madras city.\r\nZones Cow milk Buffalo milk Mean for zone\r\nAdyar 6.98 ± 0.91 7.53 ± 0.87 7.26 ± 0.63\r\nMambalam 2.28 ± 0.75 8.98 ± 1.16 5.63 ± 1.02\r\nTriplicane 6.46 ±.1.23 7.17 ± 1.43 6.82 ± 0.94\r\nParrys 8.74 ± 0.62 16.27 ± 2.19 12.11 ± 1.74\r\nAnna Ngr 8.49 ± 1.74 13.38 ± 1.93 10.94 ± 1.41\r\n Buffalo milk contailned higher levels of Pb in comparison\r\nto that in cow milk in all samples analysed.\r\n Pb concentration in Parys & Anna Nagar were higher than\r\nthose in Adyar, Mambalam, Triplicane.\r\n Pb concentration in milk showed appreciable difference\r\nbetween different zones.\r\n The level of Pb in all samples were below the stipulated\r\npermissible limit.\r\n Cd concentration was below the detectable limit in all\r\nsamples investigated.\r\nConclusion. In seeing all those things, mobility of heavy\r\nmetals is mainly influenced by the soil factors such as pH,\r\norganic matter, ionic strength, CEC, texture, temperature,\r\nsalinity amendments, Zn fertilization, rhizosphere pH ,\r\nanionic spp, ligands, phenolic substances, herbicides,\r\norganic pollutants , microbes and so on. Mobility of metals\r\nis controlled by sorption process. The adverse effects of\r\nmobility are , they contaminate ground water and ultimately\r\ncauses human health hazards. Their persistent in soil also\r\ncauses accumulation of heavy metals in food chain when\r\nthey reach the conducive environment which is suitable\r\nfor conversion of unavailable form into available form.\r\nHyper accumulator plants which may extract excess amount\r\nof metals from soil ie. phyto remediation. Identification of\r\nplants which can accumulate more quantity of heavy metals\r\nin their tissues are the prime most important technique to\r\nclean the contaminated soil environment.','T. Sherene (2010). Mobility and transport of heavy metals in polluted soil environment. Biological Forum — An International Journal, 2(2): 112-121. '),(4729,'125','Effect of Gypsum and Boron on Yield and Economics of Groundnut\r\n(Arachis hypogaea L.)','Pasala Ramya, Rajesh Singh and Thakur Indu','7 Effect of Gypsum and Boron on Yield and Economics of Groundnut (Arachis hypogaea L.) Pasala Ramya.pdf','',1,'A field experimental trial was undertaken during the Kharif season of 2021 at crop research\r\nfarm (CRF), Department of Agronomy, SHUATS Prayagraj (U.P.) to investigate the effect of gypsum and\r\nboron on yield and economics of groundnut. The experimental plotˈs soil texture was sandy loam, and the soil\r\nreaction was neutral (Ph 7.3). The treatments comprised of three gypsum levels viz., 200kg/ha, 300 kg/ha, 400\r\nkg/ha and three boron levels viz., 5kg/ha, 10 kg/ha, 15 kg/ha. which had an influence on groundnut. The\r\nexperiment was consisted of Nine treatments and Three replications and was set up in a Randomized Block\r\nDesign. The study revealed that the treatment with 400 kg/ha gypsum + 10 kg/ha boron was recorded\r\nsignificantly higher number of pods (31.36), seed yield (2674.17 kg/ha), haulm yield (3345.13 kg/ha) and\r\nharvest index (44.43%) compared to all other treatment combinations. The economic analysis demonstrates\r\nthat 400 kg/ha gypsum + 10 kg/ha boron treatment produced higher gross returns (INR 149641.52/ha), net\r\nreturns (INR 101010.90/ha) and B: C (2.07) ratio than all other treatment combinations. The challenges\r\nexperienced throughout the research work were mostly related to the use of gypsum and boron, gypsum\r\nsignificantly raises all the parameters and use of boron improves nodulation of the plant. The application of\r\n400 kg/ha gypsum increased the yield contributing features. The use of boron at a rate of 10kg/ha resulted in\r\nimproved plant growth and yield indices, as well as improved groundnut crop economics.\r\n','Gypsum, Boron, Yield attributes, Economics, Groundnut.','In conclusion from the above study the improved seed\r\nand haulm yield output of groundnut might be\r\nattributed due to a higher number of filled pods and\r\nmore excellent nodule production as well as adequate\r\nfertilization with gypsum 400 kg/ha, boron 10 kg/ha at\r\nearly stages of crop growth. The combination of\r\ngypsum and boron fertilizer is the most suitable\r\ncombination for groundnuts because it is highly\r\nproductive, profitable and economically efficient.','Ariraman, R., Ravikumar, C. and Ganapathy, M. (2020).\r\nStudies on the effect of different sources and levels of\r\nSulphur on yield and economics of irrigated summer\r\ngroundnut (Arachis hypogaea L.), Infokara Research, 9(3): 1021-9056.\r\nFAOSTAT. Food and Agriculture Organization of the United\r\nNations. (2019). Production: crops.\r\nhttp://faostat.fao.org\r\nGroundnut outlook Report (2020-21). Agricultural Marketing\r\nIntelligence Centre, ANGRAU.\r\nhttps://angrau.ac.in/downloads/AMIC/GROUNDNUT\r\n%20OUTLOOK%20REPORT%20-%20\r\nJanuary%20to%20May%202021.pdf.\r\nHaneena, K. M., Venkata Subbaiah, P., Sujani Rao, CH. and\r\nSrinivasulu, K. (2021). Effect of Boron on Nutritional\r\nQuality of Groundnut Grown in Coastal Sandy Soils.\r\nInternational Journal of Plant & Soil Science, 33(19):\r\n189-197.\r\nHanumanthappa, D. C., Sushmitha, B. P., Ganesh, A. S., and\r\nHarsha Kumar, S. S. (2019). Influence of Different\r\nlevels of Nano Boron on Germination and Seedling\r\nVigour of Groundnut. International Journal of Pure\r\nand Applied Bioscience, 7(1): 256-259.\r\nNaiknaware, M. D., Pawar, G. R., and Murumkar, S. B.\r\n(2015). Effect of varying levels of boron and Sulphur\r\non growth, yield, and quality of summer groundnut\r\n(Arachis hypogaea L.). International Journal of\r\nTropical Agriculture, 33(2): 471-474.\r\nRao, S. S., and Shaktawat, M. S. (2001). Effect of organic\r\nmanure, phosphorus, and gypsum on growth, yield,\r\nand quality of groundnut (Arachis hypogaea L.).\r\nIndian Journal Plant Physiology, 6(3): 306-311.\r\nRamjeet Yadav, Jat L. K, Shobh Nath Yadav, Singh, R. P.,\r\nand Yadav, P. K. (2015). Effect of gypsum on growth\r\nand yield of groundnut (Arachis hypogaea L.).\r\nEnvironment and ecology, 33(2): 676-679.\r\nRuskar Banu, Jagruti, C., Shroff, S. N., Shah (2017). Effect of\r\nsources of sulphur and biofertilizers on growth, yield\r\nand quality of summer groundnut. International\r\njournal of Agricultural Science, 13(6): 67-70.\r\nSingh, R. A. (2007). Effect of variable doses of potassium,\r\nsulphur and calcium on pod yield of short duration\r\nsummer groundnut (Arachis hypogaea L.).\r\nInternational Journal of Agricultural Science, 3(1):\r\n196-198.\r\nSreelatha, N., Seshaiah, B. V., and Sankara Rao, V. (2004).\r\nEffect of phosphorus and sulphur nutrition on nutrient\r\ncomposition oil content and yield of groundnut. The\r\nAndhra Agricultural Journal, 15(3-4): 380-383.\r\nSusan Poonguzhali, R., Saravana Pandian, P., and Angelin\r\nSilvia, R. (2019). Effect of soil and foliar-applied\r\nboron on soil available boron yield and quality of\r\ngroundnut in alfisols of Madurai district. Bulletin of\r\nEnvironment, Pharmacology and Life Sciences, 8(10):\r\n76-80.\r\nSrikanth, T., and Shikha Singh. (2021). Effect of Potassium\r\nand Sulphur Levels on Growth and Yield of\r\nGroundnut (Arachis hypogaea L.). Biological Forum - An International Journal, 13(3): 557-561.\r\nVidya Sagar, D. R. M. S., Joy Dawson and Ramasahayam\r\nUday Kumar Reddy (2020). Effect of Phosphorus and\r\nGypsum on Growth, Yield, and Economics of\r\nGroundnut (Arachis hypogaea L.). International\r\nJournal of Current Microbiology and Applied\r\nSciences, 9(10): 1635-1638.','Pasala Ramya, Rajesh Singh and Thakur Indu (2022). Effect of Gypsum and Boron on Yield and\r\nEconomics of Groundnut (Arachis hypogaea L.). Biological Forum – An International Journal, 14(2): 35-38.'),(4730,'125','Impact of Irrigation Systems and Dates of Planting on Growth Parameters of\r\nPotato (Solanum tuberosum L.)','Mukesh Kumar , Arun Kumar Bhatia , Surender Kumar, Parveen Kumar , Vishal Atwal and Sunil Kumar','8 Impact of Irrigation Systems and Dates of Planting on Growth Parameters of Potato _Solanum tuberosum L._ Surender Kumar.pdf','',1,'The present research titled “Impact of Irrigation Systems and Dates of Planting on Growth Parameters of Potato (Solanum tuberosum L.)” was conducted at Research farm of Department of Vegetable Science, CCS HAU, Hisar during the years 2017-18 and 2018-19. Among various irrigation systems, micro-sprinkler irrigation systems (I2) was significantly improve growth parameters i.e. Plant height (47.73 and 52.45 cm), number of stems hill-1 (1.77 & 1.82), Numbers of leaves stem-1 (24.91 and 26.86), Leaves weight (283.90 and 274.18 g) and Stem weight (65.46 g & 62.44) Harvested at 75 DAP and 90 DAP, respectively, of potato over furrow irrigation system, whereas, among various dates of sowing, (D4) 15th October had significant effects on potato growth metrics of potato i.e. Plant height (49.23 cm and 50.60 cm Harvested at 75 DAP and 90 DAP, respectively, number of stem hill-1 (1.95 and 2.15 Harvested at 75 DAP and 90 DAP), Numbers of leaves stem-1 (26.33 and 27.46 Harvested at 75 DAP and 90 DAP), Leaves weight (323.49 g and 315.37 Harvested at 75 DAP and 90 DAP) and Stem weight (79.10 g & 72.69 Harvested at 75 DAP and 90 DAP) over rest of the remainder dates of planting during 2017‒19. So, in the future, I recommend that potato crops be sown on October 15th with a micro-sprinkler watering system and harvested at 75 and 90 dap, respectively, for better growth characteristics and maybe better yield.','Dates of planting, growth parameters, furrow, irrigation, micro-sprinkler, potato.','As per observation of this research, Micro-sprinkler irrigation with Kufri-Lima found superior to increase growth parameters from 6.09 to 17.62 % significantly more were harvested at 75 DAP and 90 DAP, respectively, which was comparatively higher than furrow irrigation method. Finally, by following the conclusion, it is suggested that potato (Kufri-Lima) planted on 15th October and harvested at 75 DAP under micro-sprinkler irrigation method to be a good for growth parameters and yield of potato crop under Hisar conditions.','Anittafanish, S. P., Muthukrishnan and Santhi, P. (2011). Effect of drip fertigation on field crops-A review.\r\nAgriculture Review, 32: 14-25.\r\n\r\nAnonymous, (2017). Faostat: Food and Agriculture Data.\r\nRome: FAOSTAT. Available at www.fao.orf/faostate. Accessed on Jan 24, 2019.\r\nAnonymous, (2020). Area and Production of Vegetable\r\nCrops. Directorate of Horticulture, Panchkula,\r\nGovernment of Haryana. Available at\r\nhortharyana.gov.in. Accessed on June 24, 2020.\r\nAnonymous (2019). Faostat: Food and Agriculture Data.\r\nRome: FAOSTAT. Available at www.fao.orf/faostate. Accessed on June 24, 2019.\r\nAyotamuno, J. M., Zuofa, K., Sunday, O. A. and Kogbara,\r\nB. R. (2007). Response of maize and cucumber\r\nintercrop to soil moisture control through irrigation\r\nand mulching during the dry season in nigeria. African\r\nJournal of Biotechnology, 6: 509-515.\r\nBeals, K. A. (2019). Potatoes, Nutrition and Health. American\r\nJournal of Potato Research, 96: 102–110.\r\n\r\nKumar et al., Biological Forum – An International Journal 14(2): 39-46(2022) 46\r\nDrewnowski, A. and Rehm, C. D. (2013). Vegetable cost\r\nmetrics show that potatoes and beans provide most\r\nnutrients per penny. PlOS ONE, 8(5): e63277.\r\nHaile, B., Mohammed, A. and Woldegiorgis, G. (2015). Effect of Planting Date on Growth and Tuber Yield of\r\nPotato (Solanum tuberosum L.) Varieties at Anderacha\r\nDistrict, Southwestern Ethiopia. International Journal\r\nof Research and Agricultural Sciences, 2(6): 2348- 3997.\r\nHolzapfel, E.A., Merino, R., Marino, M.A.and Matta, R.\r\n(2000). Water production functions in kiwi. Irrigation\r\nScience, 19: 73–79.\r\nMustafa, N. F., Sulaiman, S. M., Abdulrahman, A. M.,\r\nAbdulaziz, B. A. and Khdir, J. H. (2017). Effect of\r\ndifferent irrigation systems on irrigation water use\r\nefficiency, growth and yield of potato under bazian\r\nclay loam soil condition. Journal of Duhok University,\r\n20(1): 736-742.\r\nNath, P., Srivastva, V. K., Dutta, O. P. and Swamy, K. R. M.\r\n(2008). Vegetable Crops: Improvement and\r\nProduction. Jwalamukhi Job Press, Karnataka, India,\r\n398.\r\nNunes, J. C. S., Fontes, P. C. R., Araújo, E. F. and Sediyama,\r\nC. (2006). Potato plant growth and macronutrient\r\nuptake as affected by soil tillage and irrigation\r\nsystems. Pesquisa Agropecuária Brasileira, 41(12):\r\n1787-1792.\r\nPandey, S. K. and Sarkar, D. (2005). Potato in India:\r\nEmerging Trends and Challenges in the New\r\nMillennium. Potato Journal, 32: 93-104.\r\nPandey, S. K., Singh, J. P. and Gopal, J. (2008). Potato\r\nvarieties and cropping systems in India. Potato\r\nJournal, 35: 103-110.\r\n\r\nPawar, D. D., Bhoi, P. G.and Shinde, S. H. (2002). Effect of\r\nirrigation methods and fertilizer levels on yield of\r\npotato (Solanum tuberosum). Indian Journal of\r\nAgricultural Sciences, 72(2): 80-82.\r\nRab, A., Nabi, G., AMIN, N. U., Haq, I., Sajid, M., Nawab,\r\nK., and Ara, N., (2013). Influence of sowing time and\r\npotato propagules on the yield and tuber quality.\r\nPakistan Journal of Biotechnology, 45(6): 2013-18.\r\nSingh, B. P. and Rana, R. K. (2013). Potato for food and\r\nnutritional security in India. Indian Farming, 63(7): 37–43.\r\nSingh, N. and Sood, M. C. (2013). Raised bed planting\r\ntechniques for potato production under furrow and\r\nsprinkler irrigation methods. Annals of Horticulture,\r\n6(1): 45-48.\r\nThiele, G., Theisen, K., Bonierbale, M. and Walker, T.\r\n(2010). Targeting the poor and hungry with potato\r\nscience. Potato Journal, 37(34): 75–86.\r\nThongam, B., Kadam, A. S. and Singh, A. A. (2017). Influence of planting dates on growth and yield of\r\npotato (Solanum tuberosum L.). Journal of Agriculture\r\nResearch and Technology, 39(3): 403-406.\r\nTouseef, H. (2016). Potatoes: ensuring food for the future.\r\nAdvances in Plants and Agriculture Research, 3(6): 00117.\r\nWeaver, C. and Marr, E. T. (2013). White vegetables: a\r\nforgotten source of nutrients: Purdue roundtable\r\nexecutive summary. Advances in Nutrition, 4(3):\r\n318S-326S.Zhang, H., Fen, X., Yu, W., Hu, H. H. and\r\nDai, X. F. (2017). Progress of potato staple food\r\nresearch and industry development in China. Journal\r\nof Integrative Agriculture, 16(12): 2924-2932.','Mukesh Kumar, Arun Kumar Bhatia, Surender Kumar, Parveen Kumar, Vishal Atwal and Sunil Kumar (2022). Impact of Irrigation Systems and Dates of Planting on Growth Parameters of Potato (Solanum tuberosum L.). Biological Forum –'),(4731,'125','Assemblage and Functional Guild of Galerucinae Beetles (Chrysomelidae: Coleoptera) in different Agroeco Systems of Tamil Nadu','Dilipsundar N. , Chitra N. , Balasubramani V. , Arulprakash R. and Kumaraperumal R.','9 Assemblage and Functional Guild of Galerucinae Beetles _Chrysomelidae Coleoptera_ in different Agroeco Systems of Tamil Nadu Dilipsundar N.pdf','',1,'Increasing population growth raise the demand for food requirement which directly forces the agriculture sector to maximise its production. Such intensive cultivation practices will result in deterioration of local flora and fauna. A detailed information on the current status of faunal community in agrarian lands is required to keep check on extinction of local fauna. With this view, the current study on Galerucinae assemblage and their functional guild in different agro ecosystems of Tamil Nadu was undertaken. Galerucinae beetles of Tamil Nadu region comprised of 11 genera and 17 species. Aulacophora, Monolepta Chaetocnema and Madurasia were the dominant genera of Galerucinae beetles recorded in the study locations while A. foveicollis (14.80%) was the most abundant species. Among the different places of collection relative abundance of Galerucinae was highest in plains of Western Ghats. Species richness (Margalef species Richness Index: 2.02), diversity (Shannon-Wiener Index: 2.31) and eveness (Peilou’s Evenness Index: 0.852) was the highest in plains of the Western Ghats. Berger-Parker indices was also higher for plains of the Western Ghats (6.46). Plains were diversified with different crops than hills as monocropping is predominant in hills.','Agro-ecosystem, Galerucinae fauna, diversity indices, relative abundance, cropping pattern.','Availability of host plants and diversified cropping pattern are the prime factor for the richness of insect species in an agro ecosystem. Due to many socio- economic constraints the cropping pattern has been changing nowadays. A shift from annual crops to plantation crops or fallowing of land has been witnessed nowadays. Such shift in cropping pattern will directly affect the insect community associated with crops. Galeruciane beetles occur in varied habitat with wide host range. They act as indicator for a habitat about its richness in floral community. Assessing the faunal diversity of Galerucinae beetles would be a tool for studying the attributes of an ecosystem.','interest. Nil. REFERENCES\r\nAyyar, T. V. R. (1963). Handbook of Economic\r\nEntomology for south India. Government Press,\r\nMadras.\r\nBarbosa, M. G., Fonseca, C. R., Hammond. P. M., & Stork,\r\nN. E. (2002). Diversity and similarity among\r\nhabitats based on the serrapilheira of a land floresta\r\nin the Central Amazon. Monografıas Tercer\r\nMilenio. vol. 2, Sociedad Entomologica Aragonesa, SEA, Zaragoza, 69-83.\r\nBenton, T. G., Vickery, J. A., & Wilson, J. D. (2003).\r\nFarmland biodiversity: is habitat heterogeneity the\r\nkey. 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Efficacy\r\nof some systemic granular insecticides against\r\nGalerucid beetle, Madurasia obscurella Jacoby\r\ninfesting kharif pulses. Indian Journal of\r\nEntomology, 33(4): 470–471.\r\nSeibold, S., Gossner, M. M., Simons, N. K., Blüthgen, N.,\r\nMüller, J., Ambarlı, D., Ammer, C., Bauhus, J.,\r\nFischer, M., Habel, J. C., & Linsenmair, K. E.\r\n(2019). Arthropod decline in grasslands and forests\r\nis associated with landscape-level\r\ndrivers. Nature, 574(7780): 671-674.\r\nSerrano, J., Ruiz, C., Andujar, C., & Lencina, J. L. (2005).\r\nLand use and ground beetle assemblages in the\r\nNational Park of Cabañeros, Central Spain\r\n(Coleoptera: Carabidae). In: Lövei, G., Toft, S.\r\n(Eds.) European Carabidology. Proceedings of the\r\n11th European Carabidologists\'s Meeting. DIAS\r\nReport Plant Production, Danish Institute of\r\nAgricultural Sciences, 14: 275- 289.\r\nSoundararajan, R. P., & Chitra, N. (2012). Impact of\r\nintercrops on insect pests of black gram, Vigna\r\nmungo L. Journal of Entomology, 9(4): 208–219.\r\nTscharntke, T., Clough, Y., Wanger, T. C., Jackson, L.,\r\nMotzke, I., Perfecto, I., Vandermeer, J., &\r\nWhitbread, A. (2012). Global food security,\r\nbiodiversity conservation and the future of\r\nagricultural intensification. Biological\r\nconservation, 151(1): 53-59.\r\nZytynska, S. E., & Meyer, S. T. (2019). Effects of\r\nbiodiversity in agricultural landscapes on the\r\nprotective microbiome of insects – a review. Entomologia Experimentalis et Applicata, 167: 2–\r\n13.','Dilipsundar N., Chitra N., Balasubramani V., Arulprakash R. and Kumaraperumal R. (2022).\r\nAssemblage and Functional Guild of Galerucinae Beetles (Chrysomelidae: Coleoptera) in different Agroeco Systems of\r\nTamil Nadu. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 14(2): 47-52.'),(4732,'125','Effect of Foliar Application of Nutrient Formulation on Growth, Yield and PRSV Incidence of Papaya (Carica papaya L.)','Reena B., C. Kavitha*, L. Pugalendhi, M.K. Kalarani and S.K. Manoranjitham','10 Effect of Foliar Application of Nutrient Formulation on Growth, Yield and PRSV Incidence of Papaya Carica papaya L. Reena B.pdf','',1,'Papaya is an economically important crop and severe infestation of papaya ringspot virus (PRSV) adversely affects the growth and vigour of the crop leading upto 50-70 per cent yield loss. Improvement of yield with effective PRSV management is essential for commercial production. A field experiment was carried out to study the effect of foliar application of nutrient formulation on growth, yield and PRSV incidence of papayaat Horticultural College and Research Institute, TNAU, Coimbatore during 2021-22. The study involved four treatments viz., T1 –Recommended NPK dose + Foliar application of nutrient formulation at bimonthly interval (3rd, 5th and 7th MAP), T2 - Recommended NPK dose + Foliar application of nutrient formulation at monthly interval (3rd, 4th, 5th, 6th and 7th MAP), T3 - Recommended NPK dose + Foliar application of ZnSO4 (0.5%) + Boric acid (0.1%) + Ca (NO3)2 (0.5%) + K2SO4 (0.25%) at bimonthly interval (3rd, 5th and 7th MAP) and T4 -Control (Recommended NPK dosealone)with five replications in randomized block design. The results revealed that the plants treated with T2 performed better for growth and yield parameters with the lowest PRSV incidence when compared to control.','Foliar application, nutrient formulation, growth and yieldparameters, PRSV','The results from the study revealed that markedincrease in growth and yield attributeswith a reduction of PRSV incidence in papaya by the application of recommended NPK dose (50:50:50 g /plant at bimonthly interval from 3rd MAP) + Foliar application of nutrient formulation at monthly interval (3rd, 4th, 5th, 6th and 7th MAP). The appreciable increase in plant growth and yield parameters were recorded in the above treatment. Hence the present study confirms that foliar application of nutrient formulation along with soil applicationof nutrients improves plant health and vigour and also reduces the PRSV incidence.','INTRODUCTION\r\nPapaya (Carica papaya L.) popularly known aswonder fruit of the tropics belongs to the family Caricaceae. Papaya originated in Tropical America and was introduced to India during 16th century from Philippines through Malaysia. Papaya cultivation in India is gaining importance due to its year round production, high productivity, better economic returns coupled with nutritional and medicinal value. The major papaya producing countries are India, Brazil, Nigeria, Indonesia, Thailand, Taiwan and Mexico. India leads in papaya production with 57.80 MT from an area of 1.44 lakh hectares and accounts for 48% of global production. The leading papaya producing states are Andhra Pradesh, Gujarat, Karnataka, West Bengal, Madhya Pradesh, Maharashtra and Tamil Nadu (NHB, 2020-21).\r\nPapaya is a delicious and nutritionally rich fruit. The ripe fruits are used for dessert purpose and the fruit pulp is rich in vitamins (A, C, folate, riboflavin), calcium and fibre. The mature and unripe fruit is used for making salads and pickles in India. Besides, the fruits are also processed to prepare candy, smoothies, tutti-frutti, marmalade, nectar, wine, syrup, dehydrated flakes and baby foods. The latex from the stem and fruit surface of immature papaya contains the proteolytic enzyme papain which is used in the pharmaceutical, beer, meat, dairy, textile, photographic, optical, tanning, cosmetic, food and leather industries for its antibacterial, antiulcer and anti-carcinogenic effects.\r\nThe nutritional demand of papaya differs from other fruit crops because of its faster growth, continuous fruiting habit and high yield potential. Due to its shallow rooting, it is not capable of sustaining itselfby drawing up the nutrient reserves from deeper soil layers. To meet out high productivity judicious nutrient management at appropriate crop growth stages is considered asthe most important. In papaya, only application of the major nutrients viz., nitrogen, phosphorus and potassium and micronutrients viz., zinc and boron are recommended for crop growth, development and productivity (CPG, TNAU, 2020). In addition, foliar application of calcium and sulphurwas found to have a pronounced effect on growth and yield of papaya (Monika et al., 2018). Papaya is severely infected by papaya rings pot virus (PRSV) which affects the growth and vigour of the crop and based on the severity of infection, it may lead upto 50-70 per cent yield loss. Utmost priority should be given for improvement of yield with effective PRSV management to meet high productivity in papaya. Considering this, a study was conducted to understand the effect of nutrient formulation containing cow dung, neem cake, Bacillus subtilis along with macro and micronutrients through foliar application forimproving the vigour of the plant toachieve maximum profitable yield with minimum PRSV incidence.\r\nMATERIALS AND METHODS\r\nA field trial was conducted at the College Orchard, Horticultural College and Research Institute, TNAU, Coimbatore to assess the effect of nutrient formulation on growth, yield and PRSV incidence of papaya in the variety “TNAU papaya CO8”. The soil type, pH, EC, available nitrogen, phosphorus and potassium content in the experimental was sandy clayey loam, 7.74, 0.67dS/m, 217 kg/ha, 11 kg/ha and 685 kg/ha respectively. The study was carried out with four treatments viz.,T1 - Recommended NPK dose + Foliar application of nutrient formulation at bimonthly interval (3rd, 5th and 7th MAP), T2 - Recommended NPK dose + Foliar application of nutrient formulation at monthly interval (3rd, 4th, 5th, 6th and 7th MAP), T3 - Recommended NPK dose + Foliar application of ZnSO4(0.5%) + Boric acid (0.1%) + Ca(NO3)2 (0.5%) + K2SO4 (0.25%) at bimonthly interval (3rd, 5th and 7th MAP) and T4 - Control (Recommended NPK dose)with five replications in randomized block design.The recommended NPK dose for papaya is 50:50:50 g/plant at bimonthly interval from 3rd MAP.45 days old seedlings were transplanted in the main field withspacing of 1.8 m × 1.8 m and regular cultural operations were followed as per the recommendations in the Crop Production Guide (TNAU, 2020). Nutrient formulation was preparedby mixing 40 kg of freshcow dung, 1 kg of neem cake and 1 kg of Bacillus subtilisin 100 L of water, filtered and was allowed for fermentation for 10 days with intermittent mixing on alternate days (Solution A). On the day of foliar application, sulphate of potash (1%), zinc sulphate (0.25%), boric acid (0.25%), ferrous sulphate (0.5%) and calcium nitrate (0.5%) were added in 5 litres of water, mixed completely and filtered (Solution B). Solutions A and B were added together, final volume was made to 100 litres and used for spraying. \r\nObservations were recorded on growth characters viz.,plant height (cm), stem girth (cm), days to first flowering and first harvest (days), first fruiting height (cm) and number of leaves. Leaf area was calculated using the prediction method as described by Karikari (1973). The yield attributes viz., number of fruits per plant, fruit length (cm), fruit circumference (cm), fruit weight (kg) and fruit yield (kg/plant)were also recorded. Papaya Ring Spot Virus (PRSV) disease incidence was recorded using the score chart suggested by Dhanam (2006).\r\nDisease severity was calculated using the following formula:\r\n Statistical analysis of data was done by adopting statistical procedures as per the methods outlined by Panse and Sukhatme (1978).\r\nRESULTS AND DISCUSSION\r\nGrowth attributes\r\nThe present investigationrevealed that the foliar application of nutrient formulation influenced plant height, stem girth, days to first flowering and first harvest, first fruiting height, number of leaves and leaf area significantly (Table 1). Application of recommended NPK dose+ foliar application of nutrient formulation at monthly interval (T2) had a positive effect on improving the plant height (185.8 cm)as compared to control (168.4 cm) atthe time of first harvest and it was found to be on par with T1. The stem girth was also positively influenced by the same treatment (T2) and it registered the highest stem girth of 28.6 cm compared to control (24.2 cm) and was found to be on par with T3 (27.5 cm). Similar results were obtained by Hanamanth (2002); Tanimu et al. (2013); Srivastava et al. (2010) indifferent fruit crops. The positive effect might be due to better availability of macro and micro nutrients from nutrient formulation which could have stimulated the synthesis of auxin leading to better plant growth. Veena and Lavanya (1989) also stated that the application of a combined spray of nutrients (Zinc sulphate and Ferrous sulphate) in papaya was found most effective in improving plant height and stem girth. Number of leaves is one of the important growth parameter that influences net photosynthesis. In the present investigation, highest number of leaves was registered in T2 at first flowering and at first harvest (19.70 and 28.0 respectively) as compared to control. Application of nutrient formulation might have aided in the build-up of resources essential for the increasedproduction of leaves. At first flowering and first harvest, the highest leaf area was recorded in treatment T2 (1346.32 cm2 and 2541.2 cm2) compared to control (T4) which recorded the lowest leaf area of 1237.5 cm2 and 2137.5 cm2 respectively at first flowering and first harvest (Table 1). The increased leaf area might be due to the influence of nutrientsviz., calcium, sulphur, zinc and boron which might have promoted cell division and thereby increased the growth (Tuteja and Mahajan, 2007; Raja, 2008; Monika et al., 2018).\r\nDays to first flowering and first harvest are important parameters that positively correlate with the earliness of the crop. Early bearing corresponds to higher yield in a crop like papaya especially if plant growth and development could be maintained by suitable management practices at appropriate time. In this present study, early flowering (99.48 days) and early harvest (244.48 days) were observed by foliar application of nutrient formulation at monthly interval (T2). Earliness in flowering and fruiting might be due to the synergistic effect of zinc, iron and boron (Preethi et al., 2017). The first fruiting height was also significantly influenced by different treatments and it ranged from 85.24 cm (T2) to 99.40 cm (T4). \r\nYield parameters. In the present study, foliar application of nutrient formulation at monthly interval (T2) exhibiteda positive influence on yield and yield attributes viz., number of fruits/plant (32.5), fruit weight (1.40 kg) and yield/plant (45.46 kg/plant) and was found to be on par with T1 (43.06 kg/plant). The control recorded the lowest number of fruits (27.17), fruit weight (1.31 kg) and fruit yield (35.42 kg/plant) (Table 2). Papaya is a fast-growing cropexhibitingcontinuous growth habit; and isamenable for year-round production once it starts bearing fruits. An adequate supply of macronutrients along with micronutrients especially at monthly interval from 3rd MAP coinciding with various developmental phases of the crop might have influencedfruit yield. The increase in fruit yield in T2 was about 28.33% higher than control (T4). It can be inferred that foliar application of nutrient formulation could have contributed for enhanced photosynthetic assimilation by maintaining proper plant health. Ganeshamurthy et al., (2011) reported that foliar spray of potassium improved fruit weight, number of fruits and increased yield in banana and grapes. Lokanadhan et al. (2012) reported that cow dung and neem cake application nourish the plants by providing all the macro and micronutrients and thereby aided in increasing the yield of crop plants. Bacillus subtilis isinvolved in production of metabolites related to growth-promoting and disease prevention (Wang et al., 2018). In the present study, cow dung, neem cake and Bacillus subtilis in the nutrient formulation might have played critical role in improving the plant vigour and thereby aided in achieving higher yield. Fruit weight is the major determinant of yield. In the present study, highest fruit weight was observed in the treatment T2 compared with the control (Table 2). Zinc is known to influence cell division and cell expansion resulting in improved physical characteristics of the papaya fruit (Agarwala and Sharma, 1978; Ghanta et al., 1992). An increase in fruit weight might be due to more accumulation of food reserves due to increased enzymatic activity and strengthening of the middle lamella and cell walls of the fruit brought about by calcium interaction with sulphur and micronutrients (Monika et al., 2018).\r\nPRSV incidence. Significant differences among the treatments were observed for the PRSV incidence at the time of first flowering and first harvest. The PRSV disease incidence was significantly lowest in the treatment T2 as compared to other treatments. The highest disease incidence of 40.44 % was observed in control (T4) (Table 2). Cow dung contains plant growth promoting substances with antiseptic and prophylactic (disease prevention) characteristics (Dhama et al., 2005; Gupta et al., 2016). Inaddition its odour acts as a repellent for the insect vector.It also contains ammonia which is highly dangerous to pathogens (Srivastava et al., 2010). Bacillus subtilis may promote plant growth either directly or indirectly and can reduce disease incidence (Wang et al., 2018). Manipulation of transplanting time with balanced nutrition was found to be most effective in improving the yield and quality of papaya inspite of the presence of the ringspot virus. Increased yield inspite of PRSV prevalence is mainly due to the availability of the nutrients that are essential for the synthesis of enzymes and proteins that are required for flowering, fruit set, fruit growth and development. \r\n','Reena, B., C. Kavitha, L. Pugalendhi, M.K. Kalarani and S.K. Manoranjitham (2022). Effect of Foliar Application of Nutrient Formulation on Growth, Yield and PRSV Incidence of Papaya (Carica papaya L.). Biological Forum – An International Journal, 14(2): 53-56.'),(4733,'125','Physiological Parameters of different Rice varieties Grown under Organic Production System','Aparna Sharma*, P.B. Sharma, S.K. Vishwakarma, R.P. Sahu and Arvind Ahirwal','11 Physiological Parameters of different Rice varieties Grown under Organic Production System Aparna Sharma.pdf','',1,'Organic farming encourages the reduction of agrochemicals and promotes soil conservation principles. As the demand for organic rice is increasing, so to maintain quality and high productivity, there is a need to evaluate modern high yielding rice varieties under organic farming. A field experiment was conducted at Instructional Research Farm, Krishi Nagar, Adhartal, Jawaharlal Nehru Krishi Vishwa Vidyalaya, Jabalpur (M.P.) during the Kharif season of 2019-20 and 2020-21 to evaluate the different rice varieties under organic farming. The experiment was carried out using randomized block design with three replications involving twelve rice varieties viz., Pusa Sugandha 5, Sahyadri, Pusa Sugandha 4, Pusa Sugandha 3, Pusa Basmati 1, Danteshwari, Madhumati, JR 201, MTU 1010, BVD 109, IR 64 and IR 36. The recommended dose of NPK @ 120:60:40 kg per ha respectively was applied through FYM, Neem cake and Vermicompost, each 1/3rd on the basis of nitrogen content. Results of the study revealed that among the above stated rice varieties, IR 64 followed by Pusa Sugandha 3 recorded the maximum physiological parameters viz., Leaf area index, Crop growth rate, Relative growth rate, Net assimilatory rate and subsequently the grain yield.','Organic farming, leaf area index, crop growth rate, relative growth rate, net assimilatory rate','Based on the two years of experiment, rice variety IR 64 exhibited the best performance in relation to its physiological growth parameters which in turn resulted in higher grain yield closely followed by Pusa Sugandha 3 thus these varieties could be recommended for growing under organic farming. ','INTRODUCTION\r\nRice (Oryza sativa L.) is the lifeline of millions of people in the world, particularly in developing countries providing 27% of dietary energy, 20% of dietary protein and 3% of dietary fat (Pathak et al.,2018). In India, rice was grown on an area, of nearly 43.78 mha with the production of 118.43 MT and productivity of 2705 kg/ha during the year 2019-20. Whereas in M.P, area under rice was estimated to be 2.02 mha with the production of 4.80 MT and productivity of 2382 kg/ha (Agriculture Statistics at a Glance, 2020). The food grain production in India has been doubled during the post green revolution period mainly due to the use of high yielding varieties, heavy doses of chemical fertilizers, pesticides and heavy farm mechanization, which put unprecedented pressure on our natural resources. Regular use of chemical fertilizers, agro-chemicals and other practices were exhausting in nature, resulting in nutrient removal far greater than their replenishment, as well as depletion of physical, chemical, and biological properties, which hampered soil fertility and productivity. The persistent nature of residues in food items has started posing problems for animal and human health. Furthermore, chemical residues harm beneficial soil microbes, flora, and fauna resulting in loss of soil fertility (Meena et al. 2013 and Kumar and Bohra, 2006). The emerging scenario necessitates the need of adoption of the practices which maintains the soil health, keeps the production system sustainable and provides qualitative food for meeting the nutritional requirements of human beings. Adoption of organic farming will be able to make rice-based cropping system more sustainable without adverse effects on the natural resources and the environment (Stockdale et al., 2001). Production of rice using organic manures and biofertilizers favourably alters the availability of several plant nutrients through their impact on chemical and biological properties of soil. For favour of optimization of organic product quality and yield stability, suitable varieties are required which can adapted to organic farming systems as the choice of the variety in organic farming is of greater importance. The organic systems approach requires varieties which are well adapted to regional soil, climate, and production systems. Varieties under organic farming must have ability to maintain high yield level, yield stability and product quality such as taste, color, nutritional value and keeping quality to attain optimum monetary returns. Keeping above facts in view, the present investigation was therefore, undertaken to assess the suitable rice varieties under organic farming.\r\nMATERIALS AND METHODS\r\nThe experiment was conducted at Instructional Research Farm, Krishi Nagar, Jawaharlal Nehru Krishi Vishwa Vidyalaya, Jabalpur (M.P.) during kharif 2019-20 and 2020-21. The soil of the experimental site was neutral in reaction (pH 7.25) with normal EC (0.34 dS m-1), medium in OC contents (0.71%), low in available N (272 kg ha-1), medium in available P (20.72 kg ha-1), and high in available K (345 kg ha-1) contents. The rainfall received during crop season in 2019-20 and 2020-21 was 1064.8 mm and 1159.0 mm respectively. Overall, the weather conditions during crop season of both years were normal for better growth and development of the rice crop. The treatments consisted of twelve different rice varieties viz., Pusa Sugandha 5, Sahyadri, Pusa Sugandha 4, Pusa Sugandha 3, Pusa Basmati 1, Dhanteshwari, Madhumati, JR 201, MTU 1010, BVD 109, IR 64 and IR 36 evaluated in randomized block design with three replications. The recommended dose of NPK i.e., 120:60:40 kg per ha respectively was applied through FYM, Neem cake and Vermicompost, each 1/3rd based on nitrogen content. Twenty days old seedlings of all rice varieties were transplanted manually on 12th July in 2019, and 17 th July in 2020 with the planting geometry of 20 cm × 20 cm. Weeds were controlled by operating cono weeder at 25 days after transplanting (DAT) followed by hand weeding. Growth parameters, Physiological parameters and yield attributes were recorded at different time intervals. Post-harvest observations were noted along with grain and straw yield of different rice varieties. The data on different physiological parameters of rice varieties were determined using the following formulae:\r\nLeaf area index (LAI) Watson (1952) \r\nCrop growth rate (CGR) g m-2 day-1 Watson (1952) \r\nWhere, \r\nW1 = Dry weight of plant m-2 at time T1\r\nW2 = Dry weight of plant m-2 at time T2\r\nP = Ground area (m2)\r\nT1 and T2 are the two consecutive time period\r\nRelative growth rate (RGR) g g-1 day-1 Watson (1952) \r\nWhere,\r\nW1 = Dry weight of plant m-2 at time T1\r\nW2 = Dry weight of plant m-2 at time T2\r\n Ln = Natural log\r\nT1 and T2 are the two consecutive time period\r\nNet assimilation rate (NAR) \r\n g m-2 day-1 Nichiporovich (1967)\r\nWhere,\r\nW1 = Dry weight of plant m-2 at time T1 \r\nW2 = Dry weight of plant m-2 at time T2\r\nLA1 = Leaf area of plant m-2 at time T1 \r\nLA2 = Leaf area of plant m-2 at time \r\nLn = natural log\r\nRESULTS AND DISCUSSION\r\nThe observations on physiological characteristics viz., leaf area index, crop growth rate, relative growth rate and net assimilatory rate recorded periodically had exhibited significant variations among different rice varieties grown under organic farming (Table 1 and 2). The variable trend and limit of vegetative growth during successive growth stages before the start of reproductive phase is mainly governed by the genetic behaviour inherited by rice genotypes as well as their adaptation potential. \r\nLeaf area index (LAI): It is evident from the data (Table 1) that at 30,60 and 90 DAT, the rice variety IR 64 recorded the maximum LAI (1.72, 3.94 and 3.78 respectively) which was found at par to Pusa Sugandha 3 (1.60, 3.59 and 3.46 respectively) but registered significantly higher leaf area index than the other varieties. This was mainly due to increased tiller production, greater number of leaves and enhanced leaf size which resulted in higher leaf area index in these varieties as compared to other varieties. Whereas the minimum leaf area index (0.74, 2.64 and 2.40 respectively) was noted in Danteshwari which was mainly due to lowered number of leaves and reduced leaf size. Navinkumar et al., (2018) also reported that the higher LAI was associated with the increased tiller production and size of the leaves.\r\nCrop growth rate (CGR): Perusal of data (Table 1) revealed that, the CGR was noted maximum (3.24, 14.72 and 15.75 g m-2 day-1) in IR 64 being at par to Pusa Sugandha 3 (3.07, 14.29 and 15.17 g m-2 day-1) but was found to be statistically superior to other examined rice varieties during 0-30, 30-60 and 60-90 DAT respectively. The increased rate of per day dry matter production resulted in higher CGR in these varieties. While the minimum CGR (1.48, 10.84 and 13.05 g m-2 day-1 respectively) was observed in Danteshwari which was attributable to lowest dry matter production in this variety.\r\nRelative growth rate (RGR): The data (Table 2) clearly showed that during 0-30, 30-60 and 60-90 DAT, IR 64 recorded the highest RGR (0.151, 0.072 and 0.025 g g-1 day-1 respectively) among all the varieties closely followed by Pusa Sugandha 3 (0.150, 0.069 and 0.024 g g-1 day-1 respectively) whereas significantly superior over others. This was mainly because these varieties showed vigorous growth ability and attained relatively higher biomass accumulation than other varieties. On the other hand, the lowest RGR (0.125, 0.057 and 0.020 g g-1 day-1 respectively) was found in Danteshwari mainly due to minimum accumulated biomass.\r\nNet assimilation rate (NAR): It is obvious from the data (Table 2) that during 30-60 and 60-90 DAT, the maximum NAR was accounted in IR 64 (0.738 and 0.524 g m-2 day-1) which was found at par with the Pusa Sugandha 3 (0.676 and 0.506 g m-2 day-1) but was significantly superior over other varieties. The maximum NAR in these varieties was attributable to higher LAI and dry matter production as compared to other varieties. However, the minimum NAR was recorded in Danteshwari (0.553 and 0.408 gm-2 day-1) because of minimal dry matter production and lowest LAI. Such type of variation in physiological parameters among the different rice varieties might be owing to differences in their parental origin which caused variation in their genetically inheritance for such traits. Harish et al., (2017) also founded that the dry matter accumulation (DMA) and LAI both influence the growth indices like crop growth rate, relative growth rate and net assimilatory rate, higher the DMA and LAI, better the growth indices. Several other workers viz., Anjana (2019), and Kumar and Shrivastav (2020) also reported the similar findings.\r\n\r\nGrain yield and Straw yield: The data (Table 3) indicated that the grain and straw yield varied significantly among different rice varieties. The maximum grain yield (4174 kgha-1) was recorded in the rice variety IR 64 which was statistically at par with Pusa Sugandha 3 (3933 kgha-1) but proved its significant superiority to other varieties. The physiological parameters in these varieties were found to be superior as discussed above which contributed to better translocation of dry matter into the economic sink and consequently the production of significantly higher grain yields than other varieties. While the minimum grain yield (2502 kgha-1) was noted in the rice variety Danteshwari. Furthermore, the higher straw yield (4943 kg ha-1) was recorded in IR 64 which showed statistical parity with Pusa Sugandha 3 (4905 kg ha-1), Pusa Sugandha 4 (4792 kg ha-1), Sahyadri (4721 kg ha-1) and MTU 1010 (4670 kg ha-1) but was significantly superior to others, since these varieties were superior in their vegetative growth comprising plant height, tillers hill-1, leaf area index of crop and consequently with the dry matter production hill-1, hence the maximum straw yields were obtained in these varieties. While the lowest straw yield (4159 kg ha-1) was noted in Danteshwari. Thakur and Patel (1998) also reported that the increase in LAI, CGR, LAD, NAR and RGR was reflected in higher grain yields. Harish et al., (2017) also stated that LAI might have helped in better photosynthesis and assimilation rate resulting in more dry matter and better growth indices, which ultimately showed effect on yield attributes and yield. Katsura et al., (2007) also reported similar results. \r\nCorrelation studies. It is clearly understood from the Fig. 1-4 that LAI, CGR, RGR and NAR are positively correlated with the grain yield of evaluated rice varieties which indicates that grain yield was greatly influenced by these physiological characters.\r\n','Aparna Sharma, P.B. Sharma, S.K. Vishwakarma, R.P. Sahu and Arvind Ahirwal (2022). Physiological Parameters of Different Rice varieties Grown under Organic Production System. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 14(2): 57-62.'),(4734,'125','Screening of Wheat (Triticum aestivum L.) genotypes for Heat Tolerance Trait by physio-molecular Markers','Kalyani More, Bharose A.A.*, Balaji Jadhav and Hanuman Malge','12 Screening of Wheat Triticum aestivum L. genotypes for Heat Tolerance Trait by physio-molecular Markers A. A. Bharose.pdf','',1,'The climate change in India lead to the reduction in wheat (Triticum aestivum L.) production is often impaired by heat stress. An investigation was carried out to evaluate the yield and yield attributing traits of wheat genotypes under heat stress regimes. An investigation was carried out to evaluate locally cultivated wheat genotypes for heat tolerance based on physio-molecular markers. Heat treatment was given by delayed sowing 30 days from the date of normal sowing. Morphological and biochemical character like chlorophyll content, days to heading, spike length, plant height, 1000 per grain weight and grain yield were recorded for 10 wheat cultivars. Potential of SSR markers for identifying and discriminating 10 wheat genotypes using 10 SSR primers. Amongst these 7 primers amplified distinct band after the PCR operation, WMC153 and GWM140 has found less polymorphic primer rather than WMC198 or WMC266. The SSR primers generated total number of 118 amplicons in 10 genotypes. Amongst these, 68 amplicons were found to be polymorphic with an average polymorphism 56.88 percent.','Wheat, heat tolerance, physiological markers, molecular markers','The varieties experimented under normal (29th November) and delayed sown conditions to induce heat stress (29th December) revealed that all the varieties sown under delayed condition showed significant decline in biochemical characters like chlorophyll content and morphological characters like days to heading, Spike length (cm), Plant height, 1000 per Grain weight (g) and Grain yield (100 sq Ft) this may be due to short duration of growth under heat stress condition. Normal sown crop produce superior grain yield along with all good quality parameters. Variety AKDW-2997-16 followed by PBN-2189 produced higher grain yield under both normal and heat stress sown condition. ','INTRODUCTION\r\nHigh temperature (>30C) at the time of grain filling is one of the major constraints in increasing productivity of wheat in tropical countries like India. Hence, wheat genotypes from national and international sources are regularly evaluated for tolerance to high temperature stress. Under such conditions, magnitude of heat stress determines accuracy of evaluation and selection of genotypes. Mean ambient temperatures during the day, month or crop season are often used to quantify the magnitude of heat stress. These temperature parameters, however, fail to account for changes in diurnal amplitude. As a con-sequence, actual duration of high temperature stress to which the crop is exposed to remains elusive (Rane et al., 2004).\r\nThe higher temperature enhanced plant growth, flowering, and maturation. Thus the number of days to booting, heading, anthesis, and maturity of wheat were significantly decreased that varied among the genotypes. Green leaf area and productive tillers/plant were drastically reduced in time under high temperature. The reduced number of grains/spike and smaller grain size resulted from drastic reduction in growth duration were responsible for the yield loss of wheat at high temperature (Rahman et al., 2009). In India, the main concerns of heat stress are at the reproductive stage due to climate change. Since, in Gangetic plain, winter is short, heat stress induction is early; therefore, high temperature at the time of grain filling stage hampered the yield. \r\nDuring the flowering and grain filling stage, wheat is generally exposed to short periods of high temperature (33–40°C) (Talukder et al., 2014). The total global production of wheat has been reached up to 757.6 million tonnes with an annual consumption of 734 million tonnes (FAO, 2018). In India, the cultivated wheat area is 31.45 mha with production and productivity of 107.59 mt and 34.21 q/ha, respectively (Anonymous 2019).Temperature can modify developmental and growth rates in plants by affects the metabolic pathways at every stage of life of wheat (Limbalkar et al., 2018; Ali et al., 2018). Grain yield of wheat is the complex trait and influenced by various physiological characters directly or indirectly such as number of productive tillers, spike length, 1000 grain weight and number of spikelets per spike (Li et al., 2020). Assessment of heat tolerance at the molecular level is more meaningful than at phenotypic level as the later involves data on morphological traits which are environmental dependent. Available genetic diversity in wheat offers opportunity for the breeders to develop genotypes with wider adaptability having resistance to biotic and abiotic stresses by selection of recombinants of desired genes. The simple sequence repeats (SSR) markers can help breeders to select genotypes carrying gene(s) of interest (Sadat et al., 2013), therefore, molecular maps based on these markers provide the breeders efficient strategies that may optimize time and resources and facilitate their manipulation in segregating plant breeding populations.\r\n \r\nMATERIAL AND METHOD\r\nA. Morphological methods\r\nThe sowing was done on 29th November (Normal) in Rabi season, 2020. Heat stress was exposed to genotypes by very late sowing on 29th January, 2021. Biochemical characters like chlorophyll content, the chlorophyll were extracted by the method of Holden (1965), morphological characters like days to heading were calculated by method of Pask, (2012), Determination of the number of grains per spike and thousand grain weight were estimated by the method of Pietragalla and Pask, (2012), Plant height were determined by method of Torres and Pietragall (2012).\r\nB. Molecular characterization\r\nDNA extraction: The molecular genomic DNA of all wheat varieties were isolated by CTAB method (Murray and Thompson, 1980).\r\nSSR analysis: A total of 10 primers were used in SSR analysis. The PCR reaction mixture consisted of 20-50 ng genomic DNA, 1x PCR buffer, 2.0 mmol/L MgCl2, 100 µmol/L of each dNTP, 0.1 µmol/L primer and 3U Taq polymerase in a 25 µL volume. The amplification protocol was 94ºC for 5 min to predenature, followed by 45 cycles of 94ºC for 1 min, 56ºC for SSR analysis for 1 min and 72ºC for 1 min, with a final extension at 72ºC for 10 min. Amplification products were fractionated on 2% agarose gel.\r\nData analysis: RAPD and SSR data were scored (1) for presence and (0) for absence, each band was regarded as a locus. Two matrices, one for each marker, were generated. Based on the similarity matrix, a dendrogram showing the genetic relationships between genotypes, was constructed using the unweighted pair group method with arithmetic average (UPGMA) 24 through the software NTSYs-pc version 2.11(Table 1, 2). \r\nRESULTS AND DISCUSSION\r\nAnalysis of morphological characters for heat tolerance trait:\r\n1. Chlorophyll content: The genotype PBN-2189 recorded maximum chlorophyll content (37.23 mg), whereas minimum in genotype AKDW-2997-16 (9.38mg) in normal wheat condition. \r\n\r\nLikewise the genotype PBN-2189 recorded maximum in (36.96mg) whereas genotype AKDW-2997-16 recorded minimum in (5.99mg) in heat stress wheat condition. Mohammadi et al. (2009) found that chlorophyll content in 18 bread wheat genotypes (V1 to V18) ranged from 21.4 to 20.4 under heat stress\r\n2. Days to heading: Days to heading in normal wheat were highly recorded in PBN-3958 (60days) and AKDW-2997-16 (62 days) while minimum HI-1633 (51.days) and PBN-4881 (57 days). Heat stressed wheat were highly recorded AKDW-2997-16 (52 days) while minimum PBN-3958 (40 days) and PBN-4876-2 (40days). Rahman et al. (2009) found that the number of days to heading is significantly reduced under high temperature condition (Table 3).\r\n3. Spike length (cm): Maximum spike length was recorded from 8.5cm to 8.0cm in PBN-3958, PBW- 4905 and AKDW-2997-16 under heat stress condition. Rahman et al., (2009) reported that higher temperature \r\nenhanced plant growth and forced the maturity, the different growth and development stages of all the wheat genotypes occurred earlier in High Temperature compared to optimum condition conditions (Table 4).\r\n4. Plant height: The highest plant height was recorded in PBN-3958 (62.00cm) and the lowest in HI-1633 (74.25cm) under heat stress condition. The minimum was recorded as AKDW- 2997-16 (39.8cm) under heat \r\nstress conditions. The mean PH ranged from 83 to 111 cm in South Asia. On an average, PH of trials reduced by 20 cm in ME5 compared to ME1 (Mondal et al., 2016) (Table 5).\r\n5. 1000 per Grain weight (g): High Grain weight (g) under normal condition was highly produced in PBN-4357 (45.85g) and AKDW-2997-16 (85.g) while minimum in PBW-4905 (39.20g) was produced heat stressed condition (Table 6).\r\n6. Grain yield (100 sq Ft): In a normal condition high grain yield recorded in PBN-4881 (367g) and least in PBN-4881(311g) while in heat stressed data showed that high grain yield produced in PBN-1449 (223g) and least grain yield produced in PBW-4905 (178g). Prasad, S. et al., (2018) found that more yield in control condition but highly sensitive to heat stress and showed high percent reduction (Table 7).\r\nSimilar findings were reported Jadav et al. (2021) by screening 06 wheat varieties (HS 562, HD 2967, HD 3086, HI 1544, MACS 6222, WR 544) for heat tolerance by sowing at two different dates of sowing viz. 10 November and 15 December respectively.\r\nMolecular study for heat tolerance trait: Ten wheat genotypes were used to study the polymorphism regarding heat tolerance trait. The SSR primers generated total number of 118 amplicons amongst these, 68 amplicons were found to be polymorphic with an average polymorphism 56.88 percent. The SSR primer WMC154 WMC198 showed 100% polymorphism while GWM-133 and GWM140 primer showed only 33.33 % polymorphism. Highest informative marker with The PIC value of 0.97 was WMC-156 while the least informative marker was found to be GWM-140 with PIC value of 0.15 amplified alleles ranged from 1 to 3 in all the wheat genotypes 7 polymorphic primers out of 10 amplified product. Primer WMC-154 and WMC-198 respectively showed 100 polymorphism in all genotypes. Primer GWM-133 and GWM-140 showed 33.33 percent polymorphism respectively (Table 8). \r\nOn the basis of PCR amplification in DNA the primer WMC-198, WMC-156, GWM-133 and GWM-140 produces unique bands wheat genotypes. Unique and polymorphic banding pattern shows that the primer WMC-156 produce polymorphic amplicons whereas the band in lane 1, lane 2, lane 9, lane 10 are absent while in lane 3,4,5,6,7 respectively present. Primer GWM-140 has given unique band with apx. 320 bp size in lane number four and 300bp size band in lane number 1 and shows polymorphic bands in lane 5, 6, 7. Primer WMC-156 produce unique band at 450 bp size in lane 6 and lane 1 while primer 245 produces polymorphic bands with zero unique bands. Primer GWM-133 produces 300 bp size unique bands in lane 4 \r\nand polymorphic bands are showed but primer 154 was not recorded with any unique amplicon. Mahesh et. al. (2019) screened 19 wheat (Triticum aestivum L.) genotypes for their tolerance of heat stress with 17 wheat microsatellite markers, which were capable of detecting 89 alleles with an average of 4.6 alleles per locus. Polymorphism Information Content value ranged from 0.16 for the primer XGWM 516 to 0.83 for DUPW 117 with an average of 0.60. \r\n\r\nClustering on the basis of wheat genotypes: The relationships among wheat cultivars were estimates by a UPGMA cluster analysis of genetic similarity matrices. The composition of clusters obtained using SSR markers (Fig. 1), has revealed groupings in cases.\r\nCluster analysis: Cluster I was major cluster with two subcluster in which subcluster I contain two genotypes i.e. PBN-4449, HI-1633 and one outgroup (AKDW-2997-16). Subcluster I with PBN-4449 and HI-1633 sharing 0.9% genetic similarity with each other. Subcluster II contain outgroup with PBN-1666-1 shares 0.58% similarity with AKDW-2997-16.The major cluster-II was further divided in to two sub cluster sharing similarity with each other. The sub cluster IIA contains two genotypes namely PBN-4876-2 and PBN-2189 with one outgroup PBN-4357 shares 0.62% genetic similarity with PBN-2189. The sub cluster II-B contains two genotypes namely PBN- 4881 and PBN-3958 with one ougroup namely PBW-4905 shares 0.73% genetic similarity with PBN-4881. Hassan, M.I. (2016) did cluster analysis of similarities using Jaccard’s coefficients based on SSR markers data classified the ten bread wheat genotypes evenly into two groups.','Kalyani More, Bharose A.A., Balaji Jadhav and Hanuman Malge (2022). Screening of Wheat (Triticum aestivum L.) genotypes for Heat Tolerance Trait by physio-molecular Markers. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 14(2): 63-68.'),(4735,'126','Insecticidal Activity of the Phyto-extracts Derived from Different parts\r\nof the trees of Fabaceae family against Hyblaea puera Cramer\r\n(Lepidoptera: Hyblaeidae)','B. Deepa and O.K. Remadevi','1 DEEPA.pdf','',1,'The larvicidal and ovicidal activity of the extracts of the seeds and leaves of Acacia concinna\r\n(Willd.) DC. and seeds and flowers of Butea monosperma (Lam.) Taub, prepared from the organic solvents, viz.\r\npetroleum ether, chloroform, methanol, ethyl alcohol, ethyl acetate, acetone and water were evaluated against\r\nthe teak defoliator, Hyblaea puera Cramer. The result showed that the methanol and ethyl acetate extract of the\r\nseeds of A. concinna and the ethyl acetate extract of the leaves of A. concinna were the most effective among\r\nall the extracts causing 100% larval mortality even with least concentration (0.25%). All the extracts of the\r\nseeds of A. concinna showed 100% egg hatch inhibition at lowest concentration (0.5%), whereas all the extracts\r\nof the leaves of A. concinna were ineffective as ovicides except petroleum ether extract which exhibited 40%\r\negg hatch inhibition at highest concentration (2%). The ethyl acetate extract of the seeds of B. monosperma, was\r\nthe most effective among all the extracts causing 100% larval mortality even with least concentration (0.25%).\r\nHighest egg hatch inhibition (80%) was recorded at highest concentration (2%) for the chloroform extract of\r\nthe seeds of B. monosperma. All the organic solvent extracts of the flowers of B. monosperma did not show any\r\nlarvicidal and ovicidal activity.','Acacia concinna (Willd.) DC., Butea monosperma (Lam.) Taub, Larvicidal, Ovicidal, Hyblaea puera Cramer','From the above study, it is concluded that among the\r\nseeds and leaves of A. concinna and seeds and flowers of\r\nB. monosperma tested for their insecticidal activity, the seeds\r\nof A. concinna are highly effective as insecticides. A.\r\nconcinna seeds are popularly used as anti-dandruffs. The\r\nstudy shows that the seed extract of A. concinna also has\r\nsignificant potential to be used as bio-pesticide.','Plants are a rich source of organic chemicals also known\r\nas secondary metabolites. The secondary metabolites of\r\nplants have been exploited by man since time immemorial\r\nin the form of medicines, cosmetics, dyes and pesticides.\r\nAgriculture and forestry play vital role in the economy and\r\nsustainable development of the country. Pests not only\r\naffect the quality and quantity of the agricultural products\r\nbut, are of major concern in forestry sector also. An\r\nestimated 14% of the crop losses worldwide are caused by\r\ninsect pests. Although use of synthetic pesticides has\r\nprevented further loss, repeated indications of pesticide\r\ntoxicity and insect resistance have forced researchers to\r\nlook for newer eco-friendly, more potent and safer\r\ninsecticides, especially from plant sources. The present\r\nstudy is taken up with the objective of exploring the\r\ninsecticidal activity of seeds and leaves of Acacia concinna\r\n(Willd.) DC. and seeds and flowers of Butea monosperma\r\n(Lam.) Taub.\r\nMATERIALS AND METHODS\r\nStudy plants : The seeds and leaves of Acacia\r\nconcinna (Willd.) DC. and the seeds and flowers of Butea\r\nmonosperma (Lam.) Taub were selected for the study. Plant\r\nmaterials for the study were collected from the Botanical\r\nGarden at the University of Agricultural Sciences campus,\r\nBangalore.\r\nPreparation of the plant extract : Organic solvent\r\nextraction of the plant material was done using the soxhlet\r\nextractor using standard procedures as outlined by Harborne\r\n(1998) and Cseke et al. (2006). The plant material except\r\nflowers of B. monosperma were shade dried. The flowers\r\nof B. monosperma were sprinkled with alcohol to prevent\r\nfungal infestation and then were oven dried. The dried\r\nplant material was powdered in a blender/ mixer/ pulverizer\r\ndepending upon the nature of the plant material. 100g of\r\nthe plant material was dissolved in 250 ml of each of the\r\nsolvent of increasing polarity namely petroleum ether,\r\nchloroform, methanol, ethyl alcohol, ethyl acetate, acetone\r\nand water and kept for 48 hours in sealed round bottom\r\nflasks. After 48 hours, it was extracted in soxhlet apparatus\r\nuntil the eluting solvent turned colourless. The solvent\r\nwas evaporated and the dry crude extract obtained was\r\nweighed and stored in refrigerator.\r\nPreparation of the test concentrations from the crude\r\nextract : A known amount of crude extract obtained from\r\nthe above process was dissolved in respective solvent in\r\n1:1 proportion and serially diluted with water to obtain the\r\ndesired concentrations of 0.25%, 0.5%, 1%, 2% and 4%.\r\nOne drop of emulsifier (0.005%) (Tween 20, Sigma Chemical\r\nCompany) was added to the extract to ensure complete\r\ndispersion of the active ingredient.\r\nBiological Forum An International Journal, 3(2): 1-8(2011) ISSN : 0975-1130\r\n2 Deepa and Remadevi\r\nThe study insect : Hyblaea puera Cramer\r\n(Lepidoptera: Hyblaeidae) is the most important defoliator\r\npest of teak in India. Teak is its principal food plant, but it\r\nhas several alternative hosts on which it thrives. It feeds\r\non all the leaf tissues leaving only the major veins. H.\r\npuera causes extensive damage to plantations, resulting in\r\nreduced productivity.\r\nBioassay with the crude extracts : To study the\r\ninsecticidal properties of the various extracts from all the\r\ntest plants, bioassays for contact toxicity were conducted.\r\nTo evaluate the contact toxicity effects of crude extracts of\r\nall the plants selected for study, two bioassays namely,\r\nlarvicidal and ovicidal action were conducted.\r\nLarvicidal action : For bioassays to evaluate larvicidal\r\naction of crude extracts early 3rd instar larvae of H. puera\r\nof uniform age and weight range (9-13 mg) obtained from\r\nlaboratory culture were used. Contact toxicity was tested\r\nwith 0.25%, 0.5%, 1%, 2% and 4% concentrations. Five\r\nreplications with 10 individuals each were used for each\r\nconcentration. Larvae were introduced into sterilized plastic\r\npetriplates. The test solutions were applied on larvae, as\r\ntopical spray using a TLC (Thin Layer Chromatography)\r\nsprayer. The petriplates were covered with the lid. In\r\nblank group the larvae were sprayed with water and in the\r\ncontrol group the larvae were sprayed with respective\r\nsolvent. Tween 20 also served as a control. Observations\r\nwere made on the behaviour of the larvae and mortality\r\nwas observed at 2hr, 4hr and 6hr.\r\nOvicidal action : 12-hour-old eggs were carefully taken\r\non a small piece of muslin cloth using fine camel hair brush.\r\n5 replications with 5 eggs each were used for the\r\nexperiment. The extract was prepared at a concentration of\r\n2%, 1% and 0.5%. It was sprayed on the egg using a\r\nmicropipette. The cloth with the eggs after complete drying\r\nwas introduced into glass vials and covered with muslin\r\ncloth. Treatment with water and respective solvents served\r\nas control. The eggs were observed for hatching after 48\r\nhours.\r\nStatistical Analysis : Percentage of larval mortality\r\nwas calculated. Mortality in the control was corrected using\r\nAbbott\'s formula (Abbott, 1925). The percentage values\r\nwere transformed to ensure normality and variance\r\nhomogeneity using an arcsine transformation (Zar, 1999).\r\nThe data was subjected to analysis of variance (ANOVA)\r\nand the means separated using Least Significant Difference\r\n(LSD). LC 50 values were calculated using probit analysis\r\naccording to calculations outlined in Finney (1971). Probit\r\nanalysis was carried out using SPSS Software program\r\nversion 12 and Anova was done with AGRES statistical\r\npackage.\r\nRESULTS\r\nLarvicidal action\r\nAcacia concinna leaf\r\nThe larvicidal activity of the leaf of A. concinna against\r\nthe 3rd instar larvae of H. puera varied among the different\r\nextracts. However, the mortality in each extract was dose\r\ndependent. All the treatments were significantly different\r\nfrom the control. The larvae treated were not as active as\r\nthe control larvae. The ethyl acetate extract was the most\r\neffective among all the extracts causing 100% mortality even\r\nwith least concentration (0.25%). The petroleum ether,\r\nmethanol, acetone and water extract of the leaf of A.\r\nconcinna show less insecticidal activity at least\r\nconcentration. Ethyl alcohol and chloroform extract were\r\non par with ethyl acetate with respect to mortality (100%)\r\nat higher concentration (4%, 2% and 1%). The other\r\nextracts are effective at highest concentration, acetone and\r\npetroleum ether extract being almost on par with ethyl\r\nacetate extract (Table 1).\r\nThe LC50 values recorded is presented in Table 2. The\r\nLC50 value is least for ethyl acetate extract (0.03%) proves\r\nthat the ethyl acetate extract has best performance as\r\ncontact toxicant among all the other extracts of A. concinna\r\nleaf. The water extract is inferior to all other extracts with\r\nrespect to LC50 (0.89%), followed by petroleum (0.7%).\r\nAcacia concinna seed\r\nThe larvicidal activity of the seeds of A. concinna\r\nagainst the 3rd instar larvae of H. puera varied among the\r\ndifferent extracts. There was dose dependent mortality in\r\neach extract. All the treatments were significantly different\r\nfrom the control. The methanol and ethyl acetate extract\r\nwere the most effective among the three extracts causing\r\n100% mortality even with least concentration (0.25%). The\r\nmethanol, ethyl acetate and acetone extracts of the seeds\r\nof A. concinna were on par, with respect to mortality (100%)\r\nat higher concentration (4%). The other extracts are not\r\neffective in causing mortality to the test insect and were\r\non par with control (Table 3).\r\nThe LC50 values recorded is presented in Table 4. The\r\nLC50 value is least for methanol extract (0.00518%) proves\r\nthat the methanol extract has best performance as contact\r\ntoxicant among all the other extracts of A. concinna seed.\r\nThe acetone extract is inferior to other extracts with respect\r\nto LC50 (1.02%).\r\nButea monosperma seed : The larvicidal activity of\r\nthe seeds of B. monosperma against the 3rd instar larvae\r\nof H. puera varied among the different extracts. However,\r\nthe mortality in each extract was dose dependent. All the\r\ntreatments were significantly different from the control. The\r\nethyl acetate extract was the most effective among all the\r\nextracts causing 100% mor tality even with least\r\nconcentration (0.25%), followed by chloroform extract (86%)\r\nDeepa and Remadevi 3\r\nand methanol extract (84%). Chloroform and methanol\r\nextract were on par with ethyl acetate with respect to\r\nmortality (100%) at higher concentration (4% and 2%). The\r\nother extracts are effective at highest concentration, acetone\r\nand water extract being almost on par with ethyl acetate\r\nextract (Table 5).\r\nThe LC50 values recorded is presented in Table 6. With\r\nethyl acetate extract, the lowest concentration tested (0.25%)\r\nitself yielded 100% mortality, hence LC50 could not be\r\ncalculated. The LC50 value is least for chloroform and\r\nmethanol extract (0.06%) proves that these extracts have\r\nbest performance as contact toxicant among all the other\r\nextracts of B. monosperma. The ethyl alcohol extract is\r\ninferior to all other extracts with respect to LC50 (0.74%),\r\nfollowed by acetone extract (0.42%).\r\nButea monosperma flower\r\nThe larvicidal activity of the flowers of B. monosperma\r\nagainst the 3rd instar larvae of H. puera did not vary among\r\nthe different extracts. There was no mortality of larvae in\r\nany of the extract tested and were on par with the control.\r\nOvicidal action\r\nAcacia concinna leaf\r\nThe ovicidal activity of the leaf extracts of A. concinna\r\nvaried among the different extracts. All the treatments did\r\nnot show any activity and were on par with control except\r\npetroleum ether extract which exhibited highest egg hatch\r\ninhibition (40%) at highest concentration (2%) (Table 7).\r\nThe LC50 calculated is 3.45% (Table 8).\r\nAcacia concinna seed\r\nThe ovicidal activity of the seed extracts of A. concinna\r\non H. puera did not vary among the different extracts. All\r\nthe treatments exhibited 100% egg hatch inhibition at all\r\nconcentrations (Table 9). With all the extracts, the lowest\r\nconcentration tested (0.5%) itself yielded 100% mortality,\r\nhence LC50 could not be calculated.\r\nButea monosperma seed\r\nThe ovicidal activity varied among the different extracts.\r\nAll the treatments showed varied activity. Highest egg\r\nhatch inhibition (80%) was recorded at highest\r\nconcentration (2%) by chloroform extract followed by ethyl\r\nacetate extract (72%), petroleum ether (60%) and ethyl\r\nalcohol (52%) (Table 10). The least LC50 (0.86%) shows\r\nthat chloroform possess most effective ovicidal action,\r\nfollowed by petroleum ether (1.149) (Table 11).Flowers of Butea monosperma : The crude extracts\r\nof flowers of B. monosperma did not show any ovicidal\r\nactivity and were on par with the control.\r\nDISCUSSION\r\nContact toxicity of crude extracts\r\nIn the present study, bioassays reaffirmed the known\r\npesticidal activity of the selected parts of A. concinna and\r\nB. monosperma. Contact toxicity tested by larvicidal and\r\novicidal action exhibited varying degree of insecticidal\r\nactivity. Though more than 2000 plant species are known\r\nto possess insecticidal activity, neem is the only one widely\r\nused. As botanical insecticides are known to possess slow\r\naction their use is limited in field application. Botanicals\r\nare mostly used as behavior modifying agents rather than\r\ninsecticidal agents. The immediate knockdown effect of\r\ninsecticides is always appreciated in agriculture and forestry\r\nsector. Keeping in view the practicality for the use of\r\nbotanicals in the field condition as contact toxicants rather\r\nthan feeding toxicants, in the present study plant extracts\r\nwere tested for contact toxicity.\r\nLarvicidal action\r\nThe highest mortality (100%), lowest LC50 (0.03%)\r\neven with least concentration (0.25%) was recorded for ethyl\r\nacetate extract of the leaves of A. concinna. Ethyl alcohol\r\nand chloroform extract were on par with ethyl acetate with\r\nrespect to mortality (100%) at higher concentration (4%,\r\n2% and 1%). Insecticidal and antifeedant properties in its\r\nleaves against R. dominica, S. cerealella and S. oryzae\r\nhave been documented by (Balasubramanian, 1982; Prakash\r\net al., 1987). This is again validated by the findings in the\r\npresent study. The present study demonstrates that the\r\nleaf extract in various organic solvent possess highly\r\nsignificant larvicidal action against the 3rd instar larvae of\r\nH. puera.\r\nThe methanol and ethyl acetate extract of the seeds of\r\nA. concinna were the most effective causing 100% mortality\r\neven with least concentration (0.25%). Quadri (1973)\r\nreported the pods of this plant to be ineffective against\r\nthe rice weevil, Sitophilus oryzae and the red flour beetle,\r\nTribolium castaneum. Contradictory to the above study,\r\nthe present study has proved that methanol extract of the\r\nseed of A. concinna has significant acute toxicity (LC50\r\n0.00518%). This may be due to the presence of active\r\ningredient in the methanol extract. The study of Reddy and\r\nUrs (1988) reported that dried seed powder and seed extract\r\nof this shrub reduced oviposition of the brown planthopper,\r\nN. lugens at 2% and 5% concentrations of this solution\r\nwhen sprayed on 40-day-old rice seedlings. This study\r\nsupports the present finding that the pods of A. concinna\r\nhave anti-insect activity.\r\nThe ethyl acetate extract of the seeds of B. monosperma\r\nwas the most effective among all the extracts causing 100%\r\nmortality even with least concentration (0.25%). Patil et al.\r\n(1993) reported that cold alcohol extracts B. monosperma\r\nwas ineffective against Dactynotus carthami and Aphis\r\ngossypii in the laboratory. But the present study proves\r\nthat methanol extract (LC50 0.06%) has best performance\r\nas contact toxicant among all the other extracts of B.\r\nmonosperma. Methanol extract may have larvicidal potency\r\nthan cold extracts. Chloroform extract was on par with\r\nmethanol extract. This work confirms previous observations\r\n(Tare and Sharma, 1991) that the seed oil of B. monosperma\r\nshowed 100% toxicity to the 4th instar larvae of Aedes\r\naegyptii, Culex fatigans and Anopheles stephensi.\r\nThe larvicidal activity of the seven extracts from the\r\nflowers of B. monosperma against the 3rd instar larvae of\r\nH. puera did not show any activity and were on par with\r\nthe control. The report on the anti-insect activity of B.\r\nmonosperma flower made by the earliar workers show that\r\nthe flower extract have termiticidal action, growth inhibitory\r\naction and contact action (WOI, 1988; Raju, 1989; Baskaran\r\nand Narayanasamy, 1995) is not reaffirmed in the present\r\nstudy. The authors would have conducted the experiments\r\nwith high concentration of the extract. The plant may be\r\nhaving good feeding toxicity rather than contact action.\r\nOvicidal action\r\nAll the extracts of the leaves of A. concinna did not\r\nshow any activity and were on par with control except\r\npetroleum ether extract which exhibited highest egg hatch\r\ninhibition (40%) at highest concentration (2%). The leaves\r\nof the A. concinna have better larvicidal action and are not\r\n8 Deepa and Remadevi\r\neffective as ovicides. With all the extracts, the lowest\r\nconcentration tested (0.5%) itself yielded 100% mortality\r\nand the result shows that the seeds of A. concinna have\r\nbetter ovicidal activity. The study shows that A. concinna\r\nseed is not only a good larvicide but also a good ovicide.\r\nHighest egg hatch inhibition (80%) was recorded at highest\r\nconcentration (2%) for the chloroform extract of the seeds\r\nof B. monosperma followed by ethyl acetate extract (72%),\r\npetroleum ether (60%) and ethyl alcohol (52%). The least\r\nLC50 (0.86%) shows that chloroform possess most effective\r\novicidal action, followed by petroleum ether (1.149). The\r\ncrude extracts of flowers of B. monosperma did not show\r\nany ovicidal activity and were on par with the control which\r\ndisagrees with the finding of Chockalingham et al. (1992)\r\nThis is may be due to any variation in the concentration.\r\nIt is possible that these plant extracts may have one\r\nor more chemical substances, which may block the micropyle\r\nregion of the egg thereby preventing the exchange of gases\r\nultimately killing the embryo in the egg itself. The\r\ndisturbance with egg cytoplasm was reflected in the form\r\nof dead eggs with black spot stage due to the arresting of\r\nfurther development of embryo inside the egg. Bhatnagar\r\nand Sharma (1994) and Elumalai et al. (2005) noticed similar\r\nanatomical and physiological disturbances of plant extracts\r\non maize stem borer, Chilo partellus. Other plants like\r\nMelia azadarach, Strychnous nux vomica, Jatropha curcas,\r\nCassia fistula, Gnidia glauca, Ricinus communis, Vitex\r\nnegunda, Derris indica, Clerodendron inermae, Lantana\r\ncaftera, Semecarpus kathalekanesis have been proved to\r\nproduce varying degree of ovicidal activity on the eggs of\r\nH. puera (Javaregowda and Krishna Naik, 2007; Ramana,\r\n2005).','B. Deepa and O.K. Remadevi (2011). Insecticidal Activity of the Phyto-extracts Derived from Different parts of the trees of Fabaceae family against Hyblaea puera Cramer (Lepidoptera: Hyblaeidae). Biological Forum An International Journal, 3(2): 1-8. '),(4736,'126','Studies on Feeding Characteristics of Oligonychus biharensis (Hirst)\r\n(Acari: Tetranychidae) infesting Cassava','Sangeetha G. Kaimal and N. Ramani','2 SANGEETA.pdf','',1,'Feeding characteristics and damage induced by the spider mite, Oligonychus biharensis (Hirst) on\r\nthe detached leaves of cassava Manihot esculenta L. were evaluated in the laboratory at 30 + 2°C and 70 + 5%\r\nRH. Cultivation of mite-infested (M+) and mite-free (M) host plants was done by constructing block design\r\nplots and replicated. Live cultures of different stages of mites were also maintained in the laboratory using leaf\r\nflotation technique. The results showed that O. biharensis colonized on both surfaces of the leaf lamina of\r\nmature leaves and the petioles showed high population densities. Initial symptoms of damage were numerous\r\nwhite spots at the points of feeding on the leaf surface. Prolonged feeding encompassed the formation of dark\r\nbrown patches, crinkling and subsequent drying and defoliation of affected leaves. Attack by these mites affected\r\nthe growth and vigour of cassava plants. Analysis of damage symptoms revealed extensive bleaching and chlorosis\r\nof the leaves. Protein profile of M. esculenta leaves revealed 5 prominent bands each, both in M+ and M host\r\nsamples. However, M samples invariably showed higher protein concentration than the M+ samples. Per cent\r\nloss in chlorophyll \'a\' and \'b\' recorded 86.40 + 1.6 % and 81.03 + 1.2 % respectively. Chlorophyll loss was\r\nsignificant at 1% levels. Increase in total phenol content of M+ plants ranged from 11.67 + 0.17 mg phenol/gm\r\nplant material.','Spider mite, Oligonychus biharensis, cassava, chlorotic spots, phenol.','Feeding characteristics and damage induced by the spider mite, Oligonychus biharensis (Hirst) on\r\nthe detached leaves of cassava Manihot esculenta L. were evaluated in the laboratory at 30 + 2°C and 70 + 5%\r\nRH. Cultivation of mite-infested (M+) and mite-free (M) host plants was done by constructing block design\r\nplots and replicated. Live cultures of different stages of mites were also maintained in the laboratory using leaf\r\nflotation technique. The results showed that O. biharensis colonized on both surfaces of the leaf lamina of\r\nmature leaves and the petioles showed high population densities. Initial symptoms of damage were numerous\r\nwhite spots at the points of feeding on the leaf surface. Prolonged feeding encompassed the formation of dark\r\nbrown patches, crinkling and subsequent drying and defoliation of affected leaves. Attack by these mites affected\r\nthe growth and vigour of cassava plants. Analysis of damage symptoms revealed extensive bleaching and chlorosis\r\nof the leaves. Protein profile of M. esculenta leaves revealed 5 prominent bands each, both in M+ and M host\r\nsamples. However, M samples invariably showed higher protein concentration than the M+ samples. Per cent\r\nloss in chlorophyll \'a\' and \'b\' recorded 86.40 + 1.6 % and 81.03 + 1.2 % respectively. Chlorophyll loss was\r\nsignificant at 1% levels. Increase in total phenol content of M+ plants ranged from 11.67 + 0.17 mg phenol/gm\r\nplant material.','The spider mite O. biharensis is a sporadic pest of\r\nvegetable crops and many other economically important\r\nplants (Jeppson et al., 1975; Gupta, 1985; Sangeetha and\r\nRamani, 2011). This spider mite is well known for its\r\nextraordinary ability to colonise vegetable plants, to\r\nreplenish all the available nutrients and to cause serious\r\ninjuries to its host plants (Chen et al., 2005; Ji et al., 2005).\r\nThe mites occur invariably on both the leaf surfaces\r\npreferably near the petioles of mature leaves causing\r\ncrinkling, drying and defoliation of affected leaves. This\r\nhas raised their importance as pests in terms of the degree\r\nof damage induced. The host plant, M. esculenta (cassava)\r\nstands out in the country as the most important source of\r\nenergy especially for the low income calorie-deficient\r\npopulation and a major horticultural export commodity\r\nearning foreign exchange in addition to its use as animal\r\nfeed and industrial usage (Hillocks et al., 2002). Field\r\nobservations showed that these plants are highly susceptible\r\nto attack by O. biharensis as the species emerged as the\r\nprominent faunal element on them. Whereas a large body\r\nof work is available on the breeding biology of these mites,\r\nmuch less is known about the feeding injury induced by\r\nO. biharensis. In the present study, the feeding\r\ncharacteristics and damage induced by O. biharensis on\r\ncassava is addressed in a series of laboratory experiments.\r\nMATERIAL AND METHODS\r\nOutdoor culturing of mites\r\nLive cultures of O. biharensis were maintained on\r\ncassava in the field to observe closely the mode of\r\ninfestation, progressive damage symptoms induced on the\r\nhost plant and also to make quantitative estimation of\r\ndamage potential of the concerned species. To achieve this\r\nobjective, two mite treatments (i) M, mite free plants and\r\n(ii) M+, plants artificially infested with mites, were included\r\nin a randomized block design plots (3 m × 3 m) which was\r\nreplicated four times within a season. Cultivation of host\r\nplants was done by planting stem cuttings of cassava in\r\nenriched soils prepared for the study. The plots were\r\nirrigated regularly and the plants were made mite-free by\r\nspraying a broad-spectrum insecticide thiodicarb to eliminate\r\nmite pests and predators (Reddall et al., 2004). Artificial\r\ninfestations of M+ plants were done by stapling miteinfested\r\nleaf bits grown in the glass house 60 days after\r\nplanting. The plots were covered with fine nets to ensure\r\nprotection from pest attack and to reduce the risk of cross\r\ninfestation between M+ and M plots.\r\nIndoor culturing of mites\r\nLive cultures of different stages of the mites were\r\nmaintained in the laboratory at 30 + 2°C and 70 + 5% relative\r\nhumidity on fresh leaves of cassava, collected from the\r\nISSN No. (Print) : 0975-1130\r\nISSN No. (Online) : 2249-3239\r\nBiological Forum An International Journal, 3(2): 9-13(2011)\r\n10 Kaimal and Ramani\r\nplots at an interval of 2 days or at the time of need. Mite\r\nculturing was carried out following the leaf flotation\r\ntechnique (Sangeetha and Ramani, 2007). Each culture set\r\nconsisted of 2-4 leaves, kept in petri dishes lined with\r\nmoistened cotton pads and was treated as an experimental\r\nunit. Stock cultures of the mites were also maintained in\r\nthe laboratory in the same manner so as to ensure constant\r\nsupply of life stages.\r\nChlorophyll estimation\r\nThe concentrations of chlorophyll (a and b separately)\r\nwas determined using the method described by Ekanayake\r\nand Adeleke (1996). Fully expanded 2-3 main stem leaves 5\r\nnodes below the terminal taken from two M+ and M plants\r\nper plot were used for extraction. This area marked the\r\nregion showing highest mite density within the M+ plant.\r\n2gms each of M+ and M leaf tissue was crushed using\r\nmortar and pestle and 20ml of 80% acetone was added to it\r\nto allow the tissue to be thoroughly homogenized. The\r\nsupernatant was decanted through filter paper into a\r\n100 ml volumetric flask. The extraction procedure was\r\nrepeated by the addition of 20 ml acetone to the residue.\r\nAdditional acetone was added to wash off the chlorophyll\r\nand the solution was made upto 100 ml mark in the\r\nvolumetric flask. The resulting solution was thoroughly\r\nmixed and 5 ml pipetted into a 50 ml volumetric flask and\r\nmade up the volume with 80% acetone. The absorbance of\r\nthe extract from M+ and M plants was measured at 645,\r\n663 and 652 nm wavelengths for chlorophyll a, b and total\r\nchlorophyll respectively against 80% acetone as blank.\r\nConcentrations of chlorophyll (mg /g fresh leaf weight) were\r\ncalculated as follows:\r\nChlorophyll a = (20.2 × D 645) × (50/1000) × (100/5) ×\r\n(1/2),\r\nChlorophyll b = (8.02 × D 663) × (50/1000) × (100/5) ×\r\n(1/2),\r\nwhere D = absorbance.\r\nThe data were statistically analyzed using students t\r\ntest with SPSS (Version 12). Values are expressed as Mean\r\n± SEM. ’n\' indicate the number of trials.\r\nEstimation of Total Phenol content\r\nThe response of plants to mite attack in terms of\r\nconcentration of total phenols content of each extract was\r\ndetermined using methods previously described by\r\nSingleton et al. (1999). 1gm each of M+ and M fresh leaf\r\nsample was ground in a pre-cooled mortar into fine paste\r\nwith 10 ml of 80% ethanol. The homogenate was centrifuged\r\nat 10,000 rpm for 20 min, the supernatant was saved, and\r\nto the residue 5 ml of 80% ethanol was added for reextraction.\r\nPooled supernatant was evaporated to dryness\r\nin a hot water bath. Dried residue was dissolved in 5 ml of\r\ndistilled water. To 1 ml of the above solution, 2 ml of\r\ndistilled water and 0.5 ml of Folin-Ciocalteau reagent were\r\nadded and incubated for 3 minutes. Added 2 ml of 20%\r\nSodium bi-carbonate solution (freshly prepared), mixed\r\nthoroughly and placed in boiling water bath for 1 minute.\r\nCooled the reaction mixture and the absorbance value was\r\nread at 650 nm using a Shimadzu UV-VIS spectrophotometer\r\n(Model UV - 1601). Final concentration of phenol present\r\nin each test sample was calculated by plotting a standard\r\ngraph prepared using different concentrations of standard\r\nTannic acid. Values are expressed in terms of mg phenols/\r\n100g material.\r\nEstimation of Protein Profile\r\nProtein profiles of the M+ and M leaf samples of M.\r\nesculenta were prepared by SDS Poly Acryl amide Gel\r\nElectrophoresis (Gaal et al., 1980). 1 gm each of M+ and M\r\nleaf tissue sample in duplicate were weighed separately and\r\nground into a fine paste in ice cold condition using 5ml of\r\nTris extraction buffer and fine sand powder. In order to\r\ncontrol the phenolic oxidation,  - mercaptoethanol (200 µl)\r\nwas used during the preparation. The fine paste obtained\r\nafter grinding was transferred to centrifuge tube (8ml) and\r\nspun at 10,000 rpm at 4°C using a refrigerated centrifuge\r\n(Plast Crafts Model - Rota 4R - V/F M) for 30 minutes. The\r\nsupernatant was collected using micropipette in a separate\r\nmicro-centrifuge tube and stored at 28°C. 50 µl of sample\r\nwas loaded in the wells of the apparatus (Genei Mini Model\r\nElectrophoresis Unit) assembled for running at a voltage\r\nset at 80V. The gel was stained in coomassie brilliant blue\r\nand molecular weights of the bands were determined using\r\nQuantity One software.\r\nRESULTS\r\nQualitative assessment of feeding injury\r\nStudies on feeding activities of all life stages of O.\r\nbiharensis on M. esculenta, damage symptoms and progress\r\nof infestation was made through repeated field cum\r\nlaboratory studies.\r\nMorphological responses of feeding\r\nFeeding activity of O. biharensis: O. biharensis\r\nrepresented the category of \'leaf suckers\' encountered on\r\nM. esculenta during the survey. It colonised the mature\r\nleaves and built large colonies. However, young or newly\r\nsprouted leaves of the host plant were left unfed by the\r\nmite. The adults, larval and nymphal stages equally engaged\r\nin active feeding by piercing their stylets set on protrusible\r\nstylophore that could be seen moving back and forth during\r\nfeeding and sucking the tissue fluids out from the leaves.\r\nThe colony structure of the mites as reflected in the current\r\nstudy were complex attained through construction of thinner\r\ncomplicated webbing on the leaf surface connecting the\r\npetioles and major veins of the leaf. Females initiated\r\noviposition soon after web construction and laid golden\r\nbrown eggs at random on the leaf surface. As feeding\r\nprogressed, faecal matter was deposited as black globules\r\nKaimal and Ramani 11\r\nthat spread on the leaf surface soon after ejection from the\r\nbody. Such black patches could be seen scattered all over\r\nthe leaf surface amidst a separate layer formed of webbing,\r\negg cases, moulting skin, eggs and life stages, dust particles\r\nand damage symptoms. This coating imparted a cumulative\r\neffect on the retardation of photosynthesis by preventing\r\nthe absorption of light by the residual chlorophyll left unfed\r\nby the mite. Formation of such a thick layer over the leaf\r\nsurface could be explained on the basis of earlier reports\r\nby Sumangala and Haq (2000), Reddall et al. (2004) and\r\nSangeetha and Ramani (2007b).\r\nDamage symptoms induced by O. biharensis: Feeding\r\ninjury to the host leaf was marked by the appearance of\r\ncharacteristic spots and later patches at the areas of suction\r\nof sap from the plant cells. Initial symptoms of damage\r\nwere manifested in the form of numerous white spots at\r\nthe points of feeding on the leaf surface. Continuous\r\nsucking by all stages of this mite from leaves and petioles\r\ncaused fusion of these spots and formation of large\r\nchlorotic patches. Following this, a change in colour from\r\nwhite to yellowish brown patches could be observed. Severe\r\ninfestation and prolonged feeding encompassed the\r\nformation of dark brown patches, crinkling and subsequent\r\ndrying and defoliation of affected leaves. Attack by these\r\nmites was so severe that the whole plantation appeared to\r\nbe crinkled due to water loss through the feeding punctures\r\nproduced on the leaves. This had a negative impact on the\r\ngrowth and vigour of cassava plants. This observation is\r\nin support of the findings of Reddy and Baskaran (2006) at\r\nmuch lower infestation levels of Tetranychus ludeni on four\r\nvarieties of egg plant.\r\nQuantitative assessment of damage potential\r\nPhysiological responses from mite feeding\r\nEstimation of Leaf Chlorophyll content: Chlorophyll\r\ncontent of the leaves is regarded as one of the parameters\r\ndetermining the photosynthetic efficiency of the plant (Lahai\r\net al., 2003). So chlorophyll content of M+ leaves were\r\ncompared with that of M leaves in order to quantify the\r\nextent of damage induced by the feeding activity of\r\nO. biharensis. Quantitative reduction in chlorophyll \'a\' and\r\n\'b\' was observed to be 7.56 + 0.04 and 6.70 + 0.10 mg/gm\r\ntissue respectively. Per cent loss in chlorophyll \'a\' and \'b\'\r\nwas 86.40 + 1.6 % and 81.03 + 1.2 % respectively (Table 1).\r\nResults were found significant at 1% level. The leaf\r\nchlorophyll content thus decreased with increase in mite\r\ndensity and duration of feeding (Haq 1997; Sumangala and\r\nHaq 2000; Nachman and Zemek 2002; Park and Lee 2002\r\nand Sangeetha and Ramani 2007b). In addition, feeding\r\nactivity of the individuals induced heavy loss of water from\r\nthe leaf tissue. The overall impact of the above processes\r\nhad resulted in the total destruction of the photosynthetic\r\nmachinery of the plant leading to its final collapse. These\r\nresults have clearly established the potentiality of the leaf\r\nsucking forms in damaging the host plants (Iatrou et al.\r\n1995; Ekanayake et al. 1996 & 1998; Bounfour et al. 2002;\r\nLahai et al. 2003; Reddall et al. 2004; Sangeetha and Ramani\r\n2007b).\r\nEstimation of Total Phenols: Phenols are wide spread\r\nin plant kingdom, the role of which in the metabolism of\r\nthe plant has not been adequately explained, though are\r\nbelieved to offer resistance to pests and diseases. Because\r\ncertain phenolics have the ability to precipitate plant\r\nproteins and render them indigestible, they have been\r\nconsidered as defense compounds. Analysis of feeding\r\nresponse of O. biharensis in terms of phenol content of\r\ncassava leaves provided better picture on the impact of\r\ntheir feeding. Significant increase of 11.67 + 0.17 mg phenol/\r\ngm plant material of M+ plants was observed following\r\ninfestation by O. biharensis (Table 2). Ananthakrishnan\r\net al. (1992) recorded a similar increase in the production\r\nof phenolics in cassava, castor and eucalyptus during pest\r\nattack and concluded that increase in total phenols induced\r\nresistance in hosts against herbivory. Such an increase in\r\nphenolic content due to spider mite feeding in \'Conica\'\r\nleaves was reported earlier (Puchalska, 2006), estimating up\r\nto 50% reduction in photosynthesis rate after 3 weeks of\r\nheavy infestation by O. ununguis. Accumulation of phenolic\r\ncompounds in plant tissues is reported to be one of the\r\ncauses of photosynthetic suppression (Puchalska, 2006).\r\nThese results reflected on the innate response of the\r\ncassava plants against O. biharensis attack.','Sangeetha G. Kaimal and N. Ramani (2011). Studies on Feeding Characteristics of Oligonychus biharensis (Hirst) (Acari: Tetranychidae) infesting Cassava. Biological Forum An International Journal, 3(2): 9-13. '),(4737,'126','Standardization and Stability Study of Jawarish-e-Bisbasa, A Unani\r\nFormulation','Sonali Patil, Sharique Zafar, U.S. Bapat and Manisha Bhoir','3 SONALI PATIL.pdf','',1,'Traditional medicines are effective but the Standardization of herbal formulations is essential in\r\norder to assess the quality of drugs, based on the concentration of their active principles. Department of\r\nAYUSH (a Government Body) has given preliminary guidelines for standardizing these conventional formulations,\r\nfor uniformity of batches in production of herbal formulation and it is necessary to develop methods for\r\nevaluation. The present work is an attempt to prepare and to standardize Jawarish-e-Bisbasa, a unani formulation,\r\nused in carminative in abdominal distension and also in piles. The various parameters performed both for raw\r\nmaterials and finished products included organoleptic characteristics, physicochemical, microscopical, HPTLC\r\nanalysis, quantitative and qualitative analysis of biological molecules, sterility and antimicrobial activity as\r\nwell as stability studies. The phytochemical constituents found to be present in the raw material used for the\r\npreparation of Jawarish-e-Bisbasa possibly facilitate the desirable therapeutic efficacy of the standardized medicinal\r\nformulation as a whole, and also could help in knowing the underlying mechanism of pharmacological action.\r\nThe results obtained may be considered as tools for assistance to the regulatory authorities, scientific\r\norganizations and manufacturers for developing standards.','Jawarish-e-Bisbasa, Unani formulation, Standardization, Stability study','After analysis of sample of Jawarish-e-Bisbasa by\r\ndifferent parameters such as total ash, acid insoluble ash,\r\nwater soluble extractive, alcohol soluble extractive, lipid\r\ncontent, volatile oil content, particle size (80-100 mesh) and\r\nloss on drying at 105° C, microscopic analysis,\r\nphytochemical analysis, HPTLC chromatogram, microbial\r\nscreening and stability studies showed reproducible\r\nfingerprints between batches. So it can be concluded that\r\nthese parameters can be used for the evaluation of\r\nJawarish-e-Bisbasa. The same protocol may be applied for\r\nas a regular quality control and standardization for\r\npolyherbal formulations.','In recent years, there has been great demand for plant\r\nderived products in developed countries. These products\r\nare increasingly being sought out as medicinal products,\r\nnutraceuticals and cosmetics (Sagar et al., 2005). There are\r\naround 6000 herbal manufacturers in India. More than 4000\r\nunits are producing Ayurveda medicines. Due to lack of\r\ninfrastructures, skilled manpower reliable methods and\r\nstringent regulatory laws most of these manufacturers\r\nproduce their product on very tentative basis (Patel et al.,\r\n2006).\r\nIn order to have a good coordination between the\r\nquality of raw materials, in process materials and the final\r\nproducts, it has become essential to develop reliable,\r\nspecific and sensitive quality control methods using a\r\ncombination of classical and modern instrumental method\r\nof analysis. Standardization is an essential measurement for\r\nensuring the quality control of the herbal drugs (Patel et\r\nal., 2006b). \"Standardization\" expression is used to describe\r\nall measures, which are taken during the manufacturing\r\nprocess and quality control leading to a reproducible quality.\r\nIt also encompasses the entire field of study from birth of\r\na plant to its clinical application. It also means adjusting\r\nthe herbal drug preparation to a defined content of a\r\nconstituent or a group of substances with known\r\ntherapeutic activity respectively by adding excipients or by\r\nmixing herbal drugs or herbal drug preparations (Bhutani,\r\n2003). \"Evaluation\" of a drug means confirmation of its\r\nidentity and determination of its quality and purity and\r\ndetection of its nature of adulteration (Kokate et al., 2005).\r\nTheWorld Health Organization (WHO) has appreciated\r\nthe importance of medicinal plants for public health care in\r\ndeveloping nations and has evolved guidelines to support\r\nthe member states in their efforts to formulate national\r\npolicies on traditional medicine and to study their potential\r\nusefulness including evaluation, safety and efficacy (Lohar,\r\n2009; Anonymous, 1999).\r\nStandardization of herbal drugs is not an easy task as\r\nnumerous factors influence the bio efficacy and reproducible\r\ntherapeutic effect. In order to obtain quality oriented herbal\r\nproducts, care should be taken right from the proper\r\nidentification of plants, season and area of collection and\r\ntheir extraction and purification process and rationalizing\r\nthe combination in case of polyherbal drugs (Patel et al.,\r\n2006b).\r\nThe main problem in poly herbal formulation is that\r\nthe presence of each ingredient has to be established\r\n(Bhutani, 2003). The microscopic Character of each\r\ningredient are very difficult to identify and also some time\r\noverlapping with the character of other ingredient. The\r\npaper presents development of methods for the evaluation\r\nand standardization of Jawarish-e-Bisbasa, a Unani\r\nformulation which is used as carminative in abdominal\r\ndistension and also in piles. It consist of Myristica\r\nfragrans, Syzygium aromaticum, Piper nigrum, Amomum\r\nsubulatum as major ingredients.\r\nISSN No. (Print) : 0975-1130\r\nISSN No. (Online) : 2249-3239\r\nBiological Forum An International Journal, 3(2): 14-17(2011)\r\nPatil, Zafar, Bapat and Bhoir 15\r\nMATERIALS AND METHODS\r\nFor preparation the ingredient were purchased from the\r\nlocal raw materials traders and used as a control. All\r\nanalytical specification was carried out in triplicate in a\r\nsample of Jawarish-e-Bisbasa according to the prescribed\r\nmethods in AYUSH and WHO guidelines. Organoleptic\r\ncharacters and particle size of samples were recorded.\r\nPreparation of Jawarish-e-Bisbasa : Jawarish-e-\r\nBisbasa was prepared according to the method described\r\nin National Formulary of Unani Medicine (Anon., 1993). The\r\npowdered ingredients were weighed according to the\r\namount mentioned (Table 1). Initially 125 ml of pure water\r\nand 125 g pre-weighed sugar was added in a stainless steel\r\nvessel and heated over low flame. When all the sugar\r\ndissolved 125 g weighed honey was added. The contents\r\nin the vessel were continuously stirred till the consistency\r\nof one tar was observed. When the Qiwam (base) is\r\nprepared of required consistency, heating was stopped and\r\nit was allowed to cool. Each ingredient was added one after\r\nthe other and mixed uniformly so that the homogeneity of\r\nthe formulation is maintained.Experimental procedure : Physico-chemical analysis:\r\nTotal Ash value, acid insoluble Ash, water soluble extractive\r\nvalue, ethanol soluble extractive value, fixed oil content,\r\nloss on drying were determined (Iyengar, 1995; Trease and\r\nEvans Wc., 1989).\r\nPhyto-chemical Analysis: Preliminary tests were carried\r\nout on methanolic extract for the presence / absence of\r\nphyto-constituents like alkaloids, carbohydrates, flavanoids,\r\nglycosides, saponins, sterols, terpenes and tannins (Sazada\r\net al., 2009).\r\nMicroscopic Analysis: The microscopic Character of\r\neach ingredient and final product were carried out\r\n(Anonymous, 1992). Permanent slides were prepared and\r\nstained with Safronin (1%) + Glycerin (Selvakumar et al.,\r\n2010).\r\nHPTLC Profile\r\nFor HPTLC profiling, 1 gm of sample was extracted\r\nwith 10 ml of methanol in a reflux condenser for 1 hr, filtered\r\nand concentrated. The chromatograph was performed by\r\nspotting extracted samples on pre-coated silica gel aluminum\r\nplate 60F-254 (10 cm × 10 cm with 250 m thickness) using\r\nCamag Linomat 5 sample applicator and a 100 l Hamilton\r\nsyringe. The sample, in the form length 8 mm were applied\r\nas a band 8mm from bottom, 12 mm from left margin of\r\nplate and 10 mm apart from each band, at a constant\r\napplication rate of 150 nl/s using nitrogen aspirators.\r\nPlates were developed using a mobile phase (consisting\r\nof Toluene: Ethyl acetate: Methanol (7 : 2 : 1 v/v), for\r\ncomparing finished product with raw material. For stability\r\nstudies, Toluene: Ethyl Acetate: GAA (7.5 : 3 : 0.2) was\r\nused as the mobile phase.\r\nLinear ascending development was carried out in\r\n10 cm × 10 cm twin trough glass chamber equilibrated with\r\nmobile phase. The optimized chamber saturation time for\r\nmobile phase was 15 min at room temperature. The length\r\nof chromatogram run was 7.5 cm. 10ml of mobile phase\r\nwas used for development, which required 10minutes to\r\ndevelop. Subsequent to the development, TLC plate was\r\ndried with help of air dryer. Densitometric scanning was\r\nperformed on Camag TLC scanner III in the operated by\r\nwin CATS planer chromatography version 1.4.3. The source\r\nof radiation utilized was Mercuric, Deuterium lamp. The slit\r\ndimension setting of length 6.00mm and width 0.45 mm,\r\nand scanning rate of 20mm/s was employed for plate. The\r\nscanning was performed at 266 nm and 366 nm (Eike, 2006;\r\nSazada et al., 2009).\r\nMicrobial Screening: For the finished product microbial\r\nanalysis was done. (Gopala et al., 2008).\r\nStandard plate count: This method was followed in\r\norder to enumerate the total aerobic count in a sample\r\n(Gopala et al., 2008).\r\n16 Patil, Zafar, Bapat and Bhoir\r\nAntimicrobial test: Formulation was checked for its\r\nantimicrobial activity against Klebsiella pneumonia, Proteus\r\nvulgaris, Salmonella typhae, Staphylococcus aureus,\r\nEscherichia coli by Agar diffusion method (Gopala et al.,\r\n2008).\r\nStability studies: Comparison of the finished product\r\n(formulation) stored at room temperature for second, third\r\n& fourth month was carried out by conducting tests for\r\nthe parameters resin content, eugenol content, using HPTLC\r\ntechnique (Gopala et al., 2008).\r\nRESULTS\r\nBotanical parameters revealed that brownish yellow in\r\ncolor, with pleasant odor, sweet taste. Results of quantitative\r\nanalysis for Total ash, Acid insoluble ash, Water soluble\r\nextractive, Alcohol soluble extractive, Lipid content, Volatile\r\nOil content, Particle size (80-100 mesh) and Loss on drying\r\nat 105 °C were calculated (Table 2). Phytochemical analysis\r\nshowed the presence of alkaloids, Glycosides, Tannin/\r\nphenols, carbohydrate and fixed oils (Table 3). Microscopic\r\nanalysis of sample showed the presence of identifying\r\ndiagnostic characters, which are not overlapping. It shows\r\nPieces of pitted vessels, fibers, epithelial cells, cork cells\r\netc. (Fig. 1).The standardization of Jawarish-e-Bisbasa has become\r\npossible by considering various scientific parameters\r\nconcerning the quality protocol, keeping intact procedures\r\nfollowing Unani system of medical knowledge. As a part of\r\nquality control analysis, for the parameters-ash content, acid\r\ninsoluble ash have been found within the standard ranges.\r\nBut, for the parameters-moisture content, pH, soluble\r\nextractives, there are no standard ranges available. The\r\nvalue obtained for each of these parameters was found to\r\nbe consistent for four months. So, the preparation method\r\nand value obtained for above parameters could be\r\nconsidered for laying down new pharmacopoeial standards\r\nwhile preparing Jawarish-e-Bisbasa according to traditional\r\nmethods.\r\nTo check expected consistency as par t of\r\nstandardization of Jawarish-e-Bisbasa, TLC records were\r\nobtained up to four months. The occurrence of same number\r\nof spots in TLC plates confirms the consistency of the\r\nfinished product Jawarish-e-Bisbasa. Such a stipulation for\r\nobtaining TLC (including the number of spots and\r\ncorresponding Rf values) could be considered and laid down\r\nas part of standardization guidelines in the preparation of\r\nJawarish-e-Bisbasa. The fact that the finished product was\r\nfound to be stable over up to 4 months is more than\r\nindicative that the medicine continues to retain its\r\ntherapeutic value. It has become possible to identify the\r\nvar ious phytochemical constituents has also been\r\ndelineated. The results obtained could be used as a\r\npharmacopoeial standard for the preparation of Jawarishe-\r\nBisbasa for getting optimal efficacy of the medicine.','Sonali Patil, Sharique Zafar, U.S. Bapat and Manisha Bhoir (2011). Standardization and Stability Study of Jawarish-e-Bisbasa, A Unani\r\nFormulation. Biological Forum An International Journal, 3(2): 14-17. '),(4738,'126','Nematode Parasites of Karbhala Wetland in Silchar Assam','Khaidem Binky, M. Shomorendra and Devashish Kar','4 KHADEM.pdf','',1,'Six hundred and sixty-nine fish belonging to eight different species, from Karbhala wetland in\r\nSilchar, Assam were examined for nematode infections. Thirteen nematode species were recovered of which,\r\ntwo species were unidentified. Monopterus cuchia (20%) and Channa orientalis (20%) showed the highest prevalence\r\npercentage. Colisa fasciatus showed the highest mean intensity (6.86) and mean abundance (0.92). Contracaecum\r\nsp. was found to be infected in two fish hosts (Lepidocephalichthys guntea and Mystus bleekeri). The present\r\ncommunication also attempts to show the relative higher prevalence and mean intensity of the fishes of\r\nKarbhala wetland.','Nematode, parasites, Karbhala wetland, Assam.','Six hundred and sixty-nine fish belonging to eight different species, from Karbhala wetland in\r\nSilchar, Assam were examined for nematode infections. Thirteen nematode species were recovered of which,\r\ntwo species were unidentified. Monopterus cuchia (20%) and Channa orientalis (20%) showed the highest prevalence\r\npercentage. Colisa fasciatus showed the highest mean intensity (6.86) and mean abundance (0.92). Contracaecum\r\nsp. was found to be infected in two fish hosts (Lepidocephalichthys guntea and Mystus bleekeri). The present communication also attempts to show the relative higher prevalence and mean intensity of the fishes of Karbhala wetland.','Fish constitutes a major component of diet for the\r\npeople of North- East India particularly in Assam. Fishing\r\nis the main source of employment and income for the people\r\nresiding in the surrounding village. Kar (1990, 2003, 2005,\r\n2007, 2010) made detailed study of the limnology and\r\nichthyofauna of the water bodies of North- East (NE) India\r\nincluding diseases in fishes. Kar and Sen (2007) studied on\r\nthe systematic list and distribution of fish biodiversity in\r\nMizoram, Tripura and Barak drainage in North-East India.\r\nKar et al. (2008b) studied the Panorama of Fish Biodiversity\r\nin certain rivers and wetlands and protected areas in Assam.\r\nBinky (2011a) studied on the icthyospecies diversity of\r\nKarbhala wetland in Cachar District of Assam.\r\nVarious studies have been conducted on intestinal\r\nhelminth communities of fish. The influence of parasitic\r\ninfection in relation to the length of fish has been described\r\nby many workers (Fagerholm, 1982; Amin, 1986, and Jha\r\nand Singha, 1990). Zaman et al., (1986) studied the effect\r\nof length (equal age) on the abundance of parasites. Liang-\r\nSheng, (1960) studied on a collection of camallanid\r\nnematodes from freshwater fishes in Ceylon. The helminths\r\nare found in almost all the animals including fish throughout\r\nthe world (Bychowsky, 1962). Gambhir et al. (2006) studied\r\non new nematode of the genus Cosmoxynemoides from the\r\nintestine of Colisa labiosus in Manipur. Geetarani et al.\r\n(2010, 2011) studied on the nematode parasites of Utra Lake\r\nin Manipur. Sangeeta et al. (2010, 2011) studied on the\r\nnematode parasites of Oinam Lake in Manipur. Shomorendra\r\nand Jha (2003) studied on a new nematode parasite\r\nParaquimperia manipurensis n. sp. from the intestine of\r\nAnabas testudineus (Bloch). Study of parasites is scanty\r\nand recent in Assam. Attempts have been taken to explore\r\nthe parasitic fauna of fishes of Assam (Puinyabati, 2010a,\r\n2010b, 2010c, 2010d; Singha, 2010a, 2010b). Binky, (2010,\r\n2011b) worked on the intensity of parasitization among\r\nfishes of Karbhala wetland in Cachar District of Assam.\r\nFish diseases due to nematode parasites is one of the\r\nimportant problem in fish culture and fish farming. The\r\npresence of nematode parasites up to a large extent\r\ndetrimental for a fish population consequently, imposes big\r\nlosses of fisheries and fishing industry. Since fish play vital\r\nrole in the economy of Assam, more emphasis should be\r\ngiven on negative interactions that may cause huge damage\r\nto the fish population.\r\nMATERIALS AND METHODS\r\nFishes of different sizes were routinely collected from\r\nKarbhala wetland from March 2010 toMarch 2011. Karbhala\r\nwetland (area 0.2345 ha at FSL) lying between 24 0 N and\r\n92 0 42 E and situated 5 km from the Assam University,\r\nSilchar is a potential fish habitat for earning their livelihood\r\nby the riparian fishermen. The wetland has a maximum depth\r\nof 2 m at FSL. Fishes were collected alive almost every\r\nalternate day from the fishing sites and brought to the\r\nAssam University laboratory. The identification of each fish\r\nwas done following Jayaram (2010). Small fishes were killed\r\nby pithing and somewhat larger specimens by blow on the\r\ntop of the cranium. The length and weight of the fishes\r\nwere taken. The external body surfaces as well as the\r\ninternal body organs were thoroughly examined for the\r\nparasites. The internal organs (stomach, intestine, liver and\r\nbody cavity) after separating were examined individually\r\nfor parasite in separate petridishes under compound\r\nmicroscope. The stomach and intestine were carefully\r\nopened by an incision and then were shaken to dislodge\r\nthe parasites that might remain attached to the lining of\r\nthe epithelium by their head ends. The epithelial layers of\r\nthe stomach and intestine were scrapped with a scalpel to\r\nremove any parasite that might remain attached to the layers,\r\nand the liver and body cavity were shredded with a pair of\r\nforceps and needles. The collected parasites were then\r\nISSN No. (Print) : 0975-1130\r\nISSN No. (Online) : 2249-3239\r\nBiological Forum An International Journal, 3(2): 18-21(2011)\r\nBinky, Shomorendra and Kar 19\r\nwashed in fresh saline solution. The parasites collected,\r\nupon being fully relaxed, were fixed in warm 70% alcohol\r\nand finally stored in 70% alcohol. An alternative method\r\nwas also used for killing and stretching, by immersing the\r\nworms for 0.5-1 minute in glacial acetic acid following\r\nBylund, 1980). Worms were then preserved in 70% alcohol.\r\nThe nematodes were transferred from preservative to\r\nlactophenol in which their internal organs became very clear\r\nand prominent for their identification. Prevalence, mean\r\nintensity and abundance indices were calculated according\r\nto Bush et al. (1997).\r\nRESULTS AND DISCUSSION\r\nA total of 669 fish belonging to eight different species\r\nwere examined for the presence of nematode parasites.\r\nEleven nematode parasite species were recorded from the\r\nfishes examined (Table 1) of which, two species were\r\nunidentified. In Channa punctatus, a lower prevalence and\r\nmean intensity with Philometra sp. and unidentified\r\nnematode species infection was recorded. On the other\r\nhand, Lepidocephalichthys guntea and Mystus bleekeri\r\nshared the infection with Contracaecum sp. with relatively\r\nlow prevalence and mean intensity. Anabas testudineus\r\nshowed a little higher prevalence percentage (8.82) and mean\r\nintensity (1) with four species of nematodes viz., Zeylanema\r\nanabantis, Paraquimperia manipurensis, Camallanus sp.\r\nand Paragendria sp. Similarly, Clarius batrachus showed\r\na higher prevalence percentage (11.11%) and mean intensity\r\n(6.75) with Procamallanus sp., Rhabdochona sp. and an\r\nunidentified species infection. Colisa fasciatus recorded a\r\nhigh prevalence percentage (13.46%) and the highest mean\r\nintensity (6.86). In Monopterus cuchia, a lower mean\r\nintensity (1) and highest prevalence percentage (20%) were\r\nfound with Raphidascaris sp. infection. Channa orientalis\r\nrecorded the highest prevalence percentage (20%) and a\r\nlow mean intensity (0.4) with Capillaria sp. [Table 1].','Khaidem Binky, M. Shomorendra and Devashish Kar (2011). Nematode Parasites of Karbhala Wetland in Silchar Assam. Biological Forum An International Journal, 3(2): 18-21. '),(4739,'126','Post Ovipositional Changes in the Egg Chorionic Ultrastructure of the\r\nDragonfly Pantala flavescens (Fabricius) (Insecta: Odonata: Anisoptera)','R.J. Andrew, Payal Verma and M.K. Rathodi','5 DR ANDREW.pdf','',1,'The ultrastructure of the egg chorion of the dragonfly, Pantala flavescens (Fabricius) is described\r\nusing the light and scanning electron microscope. The egg of Pantala flavescens is oval and the chorion is\r\ndistinctly divided into an outer exochorion and an inner endochorion. The egg measures about\r\n720 ± 20 × 530 ± 10 µm in unwetted condition. The endochorion is light yellow, but turns brown within a few\r\nhours in water. The exochorion which envelopes the endochorion as a thin covering which expands into a\r\ntransparent thick, sticky, jelly-like structure when it comes in contact with water and therefore, the egg in wet\r\ncondition bloats and measures 870 ± 20 × 550 ± 20 µm. The apically placed micropylar apparatus is nipple\r\nshaped, formed of a small sperm storage chamber (atrium) and a median projecting micropylar stalk. The stalk\r\nis of \'concave cone\' type and possesses a pair of subterminal orifices. A circular groove demarcates the exochorion\r\nand the micropylar apparatus.','Egg, Chorion, Pantala flavescens, Dragonfly.','The ultrastructure of the egg chorion of the dragonfly, Pantala flavescens (Fabricius) is described\r\nusing the light and scanning electron microscope. The egg of Pantala flavescens is oval and the chorion is\r\ndistinctly divided into an outer exochorion and an inner endochorion. The egg measures about\r\n720 ± 20 × 530 ± 10 µm in unwetted condition. The endochorion is light yellow, but turns brown within a few\r\nhours in water. The exochorion which envelopes the endochorion as a thin covering which expands into a\r\ntransparent thick, sticky, jelly-like structure when it comes in contact with water and therefore, the egg in wet\r\ncondition bloats and measures 870 ± 20 × 550 ± 20 µm. The apically placed micropylar apparatus is nipple\r\nshaped, formed of a small sperm storage chamber (atrium) and a median projecting micropylar stalk. The stalk\r\nis of \'concave cone\' type and possesses a pair of subterminal orifices. A circular groove demarcates the exochorion\r\nand the micropylar apparatus.','Pantala flavescens (Fabricius) is not only the most\r\nwidespread dragonfly on the earth but is the most common\r\nlibellulid dragonfly of the Indian subcontinent. It flies in\r\nlarge swarms with the monsoon winds and its arrival in the\r\nsubtropics and tropics regions coincides with the\r\nIntertropical Convergence Zone. It is also recorded to\r\nmigrate from India to Africa across the Arabian Sea. After\r\nmating, it flies in tandem and oviopsits in almost all types\r\nof shallow waterbodies including road side puddles and\r\nwater accumulated on terrace of buildings (Corbet, 1999;\r\nSubramanian, 2005; Anderson, 2009). Pantala flavescens\r\nexhibits a typical exophytic mode of oviposition where the\r\neggs during oviposition extrude from the genital opening,\r\naccumulate under the sub-genital plate and are then washed\r\noff by flicking the abdominal tip in water (Corbet, 1999).\r\nIn Odonata, the egg chorion is an extensively modified,\r\ndynamic structure with major taxonomic and phylogenetic\r\nsignificance (Corbet, 1999). The chorion not only provides\r\nprotection and vital facilities to the developing embryo\r\n(Hinton, 1981; Margaritis, 1985) but also undergoes\r\nultrastructural changes in the aquatic medium after\r\noviposition (Miller, 1987; Andrew and Tembhare, 1992, 1995,\r\n1996; Miller, 1987; Trueman, 1990, 1991; Sahlen, 1995;\r\nAndrew, 2002, 2009). Dragonflies are amphibiotic; the larvae\r\nare aquatic while the adults are aerial. The female odonates\r\ntherefore lay eggs in or around the water body but exhibit\r\nvarious adaptations in their mode of oviposition. The shape\r\nof the egg and the ultrastructure of the chorion greatly\r\nmodified in accordance with the mode of oviposition\r\n(Corbet, 1999, Miller 1985).\r\nThe studies on the ultrastructure of the egg chorion in\r\nOdonata is confined to only a few species (Miller, 1987,\r\n1991; Miller & Miller, 1985; Trueman, 1990, 1991; Sahlen,\r\n1995; May, 1995; Ivey et al., 1988; Becnel & Dunkle, 1990;\r\nGaino et al., 2008) including some from the India\r\nsubcontinent (Andrew & Tembhare, 1992, 1995, 1996;\r\nAndrew, 2002, 2009). The present work was undertaken to\r\nstudy the post ovipositional changes in the egg chorion of\r\nthe dragonfly Pantala flavescens (Fabricius).\r\nMATERIAL AND METHODS\r\nEgg laying females were collected during the post\r\nmonsoon period around the waterbodies of Nagpur city.\r\nThe unwetted fertilized eggs were collected from the\r\nsubgenital plate by holding the wings flat and by mimicking\r\nthe dipping action or by passing a needle through the\r\nthorax which initiated egg shedding. Wet eggs were\r\nobtained by dipping the abdominal tip in water container\r\nto initiate egg shedding (Andrew and Tembhare, 1995). The\r\neggs were dehydrated in ethanol, transferred to acetone,\r\nair dried, mounted on stubs, gold coated and examined\r\nunder the JEOL 6380A scanning electron microscope. The\r\nnomenclature of Trueman (1991) is used to describe the\r\nvarious components of the egg.\r\nRESULTS AND DISCUSSION\r\nFreshly laid unwetted eggs of Pantala flavescens are\r\npale yellow, oval/spheroid, slightly sticky and measure\r\nISSN No. (Print) : 0975-1130\r\nISSN No. (Online) : 2249-3239\r\nBiological Forum An International Journal, 3(2): 22-24(2011)\r\nAndrew, Verma and Rathod 23\r\nabout 720 ± 20 × 530 ± 10 µm (Fig.1). The chorion is\r\ndistinctly divided into an outer exochorion and an inner\r\nendochorion. The exochorion is thin transparent and smooth\r\nand forms a covering which can be easily detached from\r\nthe endochorion. In water, the exochorion expands into a\r\ntransparent, thick, sticky jelly-like structure and the egg\r\nbloats and measures 870 ± 20 × 550 ± 20 µm (Figs. 2, 3).\r\nThe sticky exochorion of adjacent eggs fuse in wet\r\ncondition to form an egg-mass. The endochorion is\r\nunsculptured, tough and about 6-8 µm thick (Fig. 4). It\r\ndoes not undergo any significant morphological change in\r\nwater except for a change in colour from yellow to light\r\nbrown within an hour and later darkens to dark brown. A\r\nmicropylar apparatus is located at the anterior end of the\r\negg and is well defined from the exochorion by a circular\r\ngroove. The micropylar apparatus is nipple shaped 42 µm\r\nin length and has a diameter of 48 µm at the base. It is\r\ncomposed of a small basal sperm storage chamber (atrium)\r\nand a median projecting 24 µm long stalk, which is in the\r\nform of a concave sided cone (Fig. 5). The stalk possesses\r\na pair of subterminal orifices (diameter- 6.5-7 µm). The sticky\r\nexochorion of adjacent eggs fuse in water to form an eggmass.The egg of P. flavescens is oval/spheroid which is a\r\ncommon feature of libellulid exophytic eggs (Miller, 1985).\r\nThis shape helps to facilitate quick sinking of the egg in\r\nthe water body and to avoid being consumed by fishes\r\nand other aquatic animals. Further, these eggs can easily\r\nsettle in small recesses on the floor of the water body. The\r\nexochorion of P. flavescens swells into a sticky spongy\r\njelly-like mass in water. The expanded sticky exochorion\r\nnot only protects the growing embryo but firmly anchors\r\nthe egg to the substrate. It also provides an extended area\r\nfor tiny particles to stick to it and forms a protective\r\ncamouflage (Corbet, 1999). The swelling of the exochorion\r\nof P. flavescens is not as pronounced and thick as that of\r\nOrthetrum s. sabina and Rhyothemis v. variegata (Andrew\r\nand Tembhare, 1996; Andrew 2009). Variation in the\r\nexpansion of exochorion is probably dependent upon the\r\ntype of water body used for oviposition or might be a\r\nspecies specific characteristics (Andrew & Tembhare, 1990).\r\nAccording to Sahlen (1995), ions in the water and\r\noverwintering of eggs might have a major role in the degree\r\nof expansion of the exochorion. In Synthemis regina the\r\nexochorion is sculptured with conspicuous pattern of follicle\r\ncell impression, where as in Nannophlibia risi, faint outline\r\nof follicle cell impressions are found around the anterior\r\npole (Trueman, 1991), in P. flavences, the exochorion does\r\nnot exhibit any follicle cell impressions.\r\nAlthough sculptured endochorion has been reported\r\nin Landona deplanta (Ivey et al., 1988) and Bradinopyga\r\ngeminata (Andrew and Tembhare, 1996; Andrew et al., 2006)\r\nthe endochorion of P. flavescens is unsculptured as reported\r\nin many libellulid dragonflies (Trueman, 1991; Andrew and\r\nTembhare, 1996; Andrew 2009). The colour of the\r\n24 Andrew, Verma and Rathod\r\nendochorion in majority of libellulid including P. flavescens\r\nchanges from different shades of pale yellow to yellowbrown\r\nand gradually darkens to brown (Trueman,1991),\r\nbut bright blue/green coloured endochorion is reported in\r\nsome tropical libellulids like Brachydiplax chalybea,\r\nBrachydiplax farinose and Brachydiplax sobrina (Corbet,\r\n1999; Andrew, 2009). The micropylar apparatus of P.\r\nflavescens is \'libellulid type\' (Trueman, 1991; May, 1995),\r\nnipple shaped with a tiny atrium (sperm storage chamber)\r\nand a short stalk possessing a pair of apical micropylar\r\norifices. Tiny atrium is also found in the eggs of O. s.\r\nsabina, R. v. variegata and B. geminata whereas the\r\nmicropylar apparatus of Tramea virginia and Brachydiplax\r\nsobrina possess a large dome shaped atrium (Andrew and\r\nTembhare, 1996; Andrew, 2002, 2009). The micropylar stalk\r\nis cone shaped in B. geminata, humped in B. sobrina and\r\ncylindrical in Zyxomma petiolatum (Andrew and Tembhare,\r\n1995, 1996; Andrew 2009). The micropylar stalk of P.\r\nflavescens is the \'concave cone\' type as reported in some\r\namerican (May, 1995) and australian (Trueman, 1999)\r\nlibellulids. According to Andrew (2002) the micropylar stalk\r\nis modified in accordance to the shape and size of the\r\nfertilization pore of the vagina. Corbet (1999) observed that\r\nthere was a phylogenetic pattern of progressive reduction\r\nin the number of micropylar orifices from the most ancient\r\nfamily (Epiphlebiidae) having 12-14 to the most recent\r\n(Libellulidae) having only 2 micropylar orifices. Along with\r\nthis reduction there is also a trend towards progressive\r\nclustering of micropylar orifices near the centre of the\r\nanterior pole of the egg culminating in two micropylar\r\norifices located close to the tip of the micropylar stalk as\r\nfound in P. flavescens. The micropylar orifices decrease\r\nfollows a phylogenitic pattern, the most ancient families\r\nhave a circular groove, demarcating the exochorion around\r\nthe micropylar apparatus of P. flavescens has also been\r\nreported in the libellulid T. virginia, B. sobrina and R. v.\r\nvariegata (Andrew and Tembhare, 1996; Andrew, 2002,\r\n2009).','R.J. Andrew, Payal Verma and M.K. Rathodi (2011). Post Ovipositional Changes in the Egg Chorionic Ultrastructure of the Dragonfly Pantala flavescens (Fabricius) (Insecta: Odonata: Anisoptera). Biological Forum An International Journal, 3(2): 22-24. '),(4740,'126','In-vitro Mutagenic Studies in Solanum viarum','D.R. Maruthi Kumar and D.H. Tejavathi','6 DR TEJOVATHI.pdf','',1,'Somaclonal variation for morphological traits was studied in both control and mutagen (chemical\r\nand physical) treated progenies of two varieties of Solanum viarum. The SC1, SC1M1 (first generation following\r\ntissue culture) and SC2, SC2M2 (second generation) of both 2n and 4n varieties on field evaluation showed\r\nbidirectional variation for plant height, plant spread, number of flowers and fruits per node and fresh fruit\r\nweight. Variation was more in number of fruits per node and fresh weight in physical mutagen treated progenies\r\nin both the generations. The qualitative variations observed were less spine plants, dwarf plants, sterile plant\r\ntypes and complete pollen sterility. The frequency of variations was different between varieties to varying\r\ndegrees. SC2 and SC2M2 progenies on evaluation revealed increased variability compared to seed control for all\r\nthe traits indicating that these variabilities are not epigenetic in nature.','In vitro mutagenesis, Somaclones, Seed control, Solanum viarum.','The most significant aspect of the present study has\r\nbeen the demonstration of generation of new variability for\r\neconomic traits like fruit yield contributing characters. The\r\npresence of such polygenic variability can only be revealed\r\nby using simple basic statistic parameters like mean, range\r\nand variance. The generation of this new genetic variability\r\nshould permit gain by selection for more desirable levels of\r\nsuch traits. Other significant phenotypic variation that wasobserved in all the regenerated plants is the absence of\r\nspines all over the body. Since this variability is\r\nagriculturally important and therefore, easier to manage in\r\nthe field during the harvesting period, coupled with high\r\nyielding traits, is a significant breakthrough in the breeding\r\nprogrammes of this taxon.','Solanum viarum Dunal belongs to the family\r\nSolanaceae contains solasodine in its berries. The importance\r\nof this taxon as a source of solasodine was recognized as\r\nearly as 1964, soon after the report on the high solasodine\r\ncontent in its berries by Maiti et al. (1964). The acceptance\r\nof this crop as an industrial source of solasodine, followed\r\nan acute shortage of diosgenin containing Diascorea tubers.\r\nNumber of genetic amelioration programmes were conducted\r\nin this taxon during 1970\'s and 80\'s to get a variety with\r\nless spines and high solasodine content. Efforts were made\r\nto eliminate spines or mitigate this undesirable and irksome\r\ncharacter and to select high berry yield with superior\r\nsolasodine content through conventional breeding\r\nprogrammes and induced autotetraploidy (Ammal and Bhatt\r\n1970; Bhatt 1975). Though, these genetic amelioration\r\nprogrammes were resulted in the development of several\r\nvarieties, and objectives were not met completely. Perusal\r\nof literature revealed that induced in-vitro mutagenesis was\r\nnot employed earlier in this taxon for genetic improvement.\r\nHence, the present study is an attempt to obtain either\r\nspineless or less spine plants with high berry yield through\r\nin-vitro mutation breeding in diploid and tetraploid varieties\r\nof Solanum viarum.\r\nMATERIAL AND METHODS\r\nThe seeds of diploid, Arka sanjeevini (2n = 24) and\r\ntetraploid, Arka mahima (2n = 48) varieties of Solanum\r\nviarum were procured from Indian Institute of Horticultural\r\nResearch, Bangalore. Healthy plants were raised and\r\nmaintained in the departmental garden, Botany Department,\r\nBangalore University, Bangalore, India. Effective protocol\r\nfor the regeneration of multiple shoots from the stem\r\nexplants of both the varieties was reported previously\r\n(Tejavathi and Kumar 2003). For in-vitro mutagenic studies,\r\nstem explants of about 0.5 cm were exposed to chemical\r\nmutagen, Ethyl methane sulphonate- EMS and physical\r\nmutagen, Gamma irradiation at various concentrations and\r\ndosages respectively.\r\nEMS Treatment\r\nSurface sterilized stem explants of about 0.5 cm were\r\ndipped in aqueous solution of EMS at different\r\nconcentrations ranging from 0.1 to 0.5% for 5\r\nmin.Morphogenetic potential of the culture was arrested\r\nabove 0.5% of EMS. Treated explants were thoroughly\r\nwashed in double-distilled water to remove the traces of\r\nmutagen and inoculated on Murashige & Skoog´s medium\r\n- MS supplemented with IAA (17.13µM) + BAP (8.87 µM)\r\nwhich was found to be the best combination and\r\nconcentration of growth regulators for maximum multiple\r\nshoot regeneration (Tejavathi and Kumar 2003).\r\nGamma irradiation treatment\r\nSource - 60Co\r\nPlant - KIRANA - Kidwai Institute of Oncology,\r\nBangalore.\r\nDosage - for 2-6 min at 3 Kr.\r\nSur face sterilized explants after inoculation on\r\nMS + IAA (17.13 µM) + BAP (8.87 µM) were brought to\r\nirradiation unit and exposed to different time intervals\r\nranging from 2-6 min. After irradiation, the cultures were\r\nallowed to differentiate in the same medium. Longer period\r\nof dosage had resulted in arrest of morphogenesis.\r\nShoots were removed as and when they are formed in\r\nthe cultures and transferred to rooting medium containing\r\nIBA at 4.90µM. After roots were formed, they were\r\nsubjected to brief period of acclimatization by transferring\r\nthem first to liquid ½ MS medium to sterile distilled water.\r\nFinally the plantlets were transferred to sand in pots and\r\nthen to land.\r\nISSN No. (Print) : 0975-1130\r\nISSN No. (Online) : 2249-3239\r\nBiological Forum An International Journal, 3(2): 25-33(2011)\r\n26 Kumar and Tejavathi\r\nDesign of the experimental plot\r\nAs recommended by Reddy (1988) to get good yield\r\nresponses, adaptation of square spacing in high planting\r\ndensities in 30 × 30 cm for diploid and 45 × 45 cm for\r\ntetraploid varieties were selected. The berries were harvested\r\nat/after 180 days after field planting of treated/untreated\r\ntissue cultured plantlets\r\nNomenclature\r\nSC1 and SC1M1 have been used to denote the primary\r\nregenerates of tissue cultured and mutagen treated progenies\r\nwhich correspond to F1 progenies respectively. SC2 and\r\nSC2M2 have been used to term the first selfed progenies\r\ncorresponding to F2 progenies.\r\nStatistical Interpretation of Data\r\nStatistical interpretation of data was done by following\r\nFishers analysis of variance technique (Pense and Sukhatme\r\n1978). The results were composed at 1 and 5% level of\r\nsignificance. Mean values were compared by \"t\" test. The\r\nvariants in morphological and yield characters were\r\ndetermined statistically as proposed by Fukui (1986). Finally\r\nSVF (Somaclonal Variation Frequency) was calculated by\r\nusing the following formula.\r\n2 2 2\r\n2 2 2\r\nTotal number of variant plant in SC /SC M\r\n100\r\nTotal number of plants in SC /SC\r\nSVF\r\nM\r\n \r\nIn the first generation SC1 (untreated tissue cultured)\r\nwas considered as control and SC1M1 (mutagen treated\r\ntissue cultured) as treated, whereas in second generation\r\nboth SC2 and SC2M2 progenies were served as treated\r\n(hormone and mutagen treated). The progeny raised from\r\nthe seeds of the naturally grown parents was considered\r\nas control (ctrl). 12 plants in SC1 and SC1M1 and 120 plants\r\nin SC2 and SC2M2 generation were evaluated statistically\r\nfor each treatment.\r\nRESULTS AND DISCUSSION\r\nInduction of mutation has been accepted as a useful\r\ntool in plant breeding programmes and it has contributed\r\nsignificantly to the wealth of genetic resources. One of the\r\nmost important applications of mutation breeding is for the\r\ncreation of variability in both qualitative and quantitative\r\ncharacters. The variability thus created enhances the scope\r\nfor selection. However, in several plants, the culture in vitro\r\nitself has shown to be mutagenic especially when a callus\r\nphase was involved in the regeneration process (Larkin and\r\nScowcroft, 1981). In the present investigation stem explants\r\nof two varieties of Solanum viarum were treated with EMS\r\nat different concentrations and exposed to gamma irradiation\r\nfor varying periods to induce genetic variation. These\r\ntreatments also affected the morphogenetic potential of the\r\ncalli differently among the genotypes. However, in the\r\nvarieties of Anthurium, genotypic specificity in regeneration\r\ncapacity was not observed by Puchooa (2005) in the leaf\r\nculture.\r\nBoth chemical and physical mutagens affect the\r\nmorphogenetic potential of the organogenic calli raised on\r\nMS + IAA (17.13 µm) + BAP (8.87 µm) which was\r\nestablished as a best hormone combination for multiple\r\nshoot regeneration (Tejavathi and Maruthi Kumar 2003).\r\nNumber of shoots regenerated from the callus derived from\r\n2n variety was more than that of 4n variety. However, the\r\nnumber of shoots regenerated in both the treatments of 2n\r\nand 4n variety is more than the control. The number and\r\nfrequency of regeneration were however dependent on the\r\nconcentration and dosage of the mutagen (Table 1 and 2).\r\nGamma irradiation enhances the morphogenetic potential of\r\nthe organogenic callus in both the varieties. Similar result\r\nwas observed in wheat where 1.0 to 1.5 kr irradiation\r\ninduces maximum plantlet regeneration from the embryo\r\nculture (He et al. 1993). However Sinha et al. (1996)\r\nobserved inhibited regeneration in a few genotypes of\r\nsugarcane when they were irradiated. Regeneration\r\nfrequency is also genotype dependent. Goud et al. (1969)\r\nreported that seedlings of purna, variety of finger millet\r\nwere less regenerative compared to Annapurna and H22\r\nvarieties. The spectrum of variation unleashed by tissue\r\nculture and mutations are often different (Novak et al. 1988).\r\nHowever, variability can be created by combining tissue\r\nculture and low dosage of mutagen (Xiong and Zheng,\r\n1989).The study of second generation of the regenerated\r\nplants would help to differentiate between heritable and\r\nnon-heritable variations, express recessive mutations and\r\ndo away with the in vitro stress-induced variations\r\nobserved in the first generation. Cheng et al. (1992) found\r\nthat somaclones in SC1 were highly variable mainly due to\r\nphysiological disturbances resulting from the in vitro\r\nculture. Some of the unwanted alterations induced by in\r\nvitro culture are partly eliminated by subsequent cycles of\r\nsexual reproduction and can be reduced further by\r\nselections of individual plants showing desirable variations.\r\nIn vivo evaluation and comparison\r\nA. SC1 and SC1M1 generation\r\nQuantitative variations : Agronomically important\r\nquantitative characters such as plant height, plant spread,\r\nnumber of flowers, berries per node and fresh weight of\r\nberries were studied. The plant height and spread were\r\nmaximum when plant reaches 180 days of age in both the\r\nvarieties. Hence data was taken after 180 days of growth.\r\nThere was new variability contributed to plant height in\r\nterms of wider range, shift in mean and higher CV for plant\r\nheight in SC1 generation. Similar observations were made\r\nin several crop species including rice (Jun et al., 1986),\r\nwheat (Ahloowalia and Sherington, 1985) and maize (Zehr\r\net al. 1987). In SC1M1 generation of 2n variety, tallest plant\r\nwas observed in 6 min irradiation treatment which was taller\r\nthan the tallest of EMS treatments and control. Whereas\r\nshortest was observed in 2 min irradiation treatment which\r\nwas shorter than the shortest of EMS treatment and control.\r\nWhile in 4n derived SC1M1 generation, tallest was recorded\r\nin 0.3% EMS treatment which was taller than the tallest of\r\ngamma irradiation and control. Shortest was observed in 4\r\nmin irradiation treatment which was shorter than shortest\r\nof EMS treatment and control. In general, 4n derived SC1M1\r\ngeneration showed a shift in the plant height to lower side\r\ndue to irradiation treatments and higher side due to EMS\r\ntreatment. Co-efficient of variation varied unusually with\r\nthe highest value of 29.76 in 2n derived progenies at 2 min\r\nirradiation treatment and lowest value of 9.58 at 4 min\r\nirradiation treatment in 4n derived SC1M1 progenies.\r\nReduction in plant height of somaclones has been reported\r\nin rice (Fan et al. 1991). While Adkins (1993) noticed\r\nincrease in plant height in SC1 plants of rice.\r\nPlant spread of two varieties of SC1M1 generation\r\nremained more or less similar to that of control (SC1) in\r\nboth the treatment. However, the co-efficient of variation\r\nranges from 22.56 in 2n derived progenies at 0.5% EMS\r\ntreatment to 38.31 in 4n derived progeny at 0.4% EMS\r\ntreatments. Kumarswamy and Krishnan (1988) studied the\r\nmorphological characters of the less spiny Glaxo variety of\r\nSolanum viarum with four diploid less spiny entries\r\ndeveloped at IIHR, Bangalore and 14 C5 generation induced\r\nautotetraploids of Glaxo variety. Tetraploids recorded lower\r\nplant spread in both the directions compared to diploids.\r\nRavindra et al. (2004) however reported wider plant spread\r\nin SC1 generation of rose scented geraniums. They\r\nattributed these varieties to physiological causes and\r\ninterplant spacing.\r\nThe data for number of flowers per node was recorded\r\nduring 90-95 days after their planting for 2n variety and\r\n125-130 days for 4n variety, since the number of flowers\r\nwas found to be maximum during these days. Highest mean\r\nfor number of flowers per node (5-7) was recorded at 6 min\r\nirradiated 2n variety progenies which was more than the\r\ncontrol and EMS treatment. Whereas lowest mean of 3.2\r\nwas obtained in 0.5% EMS treated 4n variety progenies.\r\nHowever CV values were lower in most irradiation treatments\r\ncompared to CV values of EMS treated progenies. Increase\r\nin the number of flowers per plant in SC1 somaclones of\r\nsmooth brome grass has been documented (Wattanasiri &\r\nWalton, 1995).\r\nNumber of fruits per node was recorded after 180 days,\r\nbecause whatever yield available at these days were suitable\r\nfor harvest. Therefore yield available for harvest was\r\nconsidered as actual yield. The highest mean of 5.74 was\r\nfound in 6 min irradiated 2n variety derived progenies\r\nwhereas the lowest mean of 3.17 was recorded in 0.5% EMS\r\ntreated 4n variety. Nevertheless CV values in irradiated\r\nderived progenies were lower in most of the treatments\r\ncompared to CV values of EMS treated derived progenies.\r\nThe variation for fresh weight of fruits was more as a\r\nresult of tissue culture and in vitro mutation in both the\r\nvarieties. In 2n variety, range increased with the irradiation\r\ndose and EMS concentration. In both the varieties, SC1M1\r\ngeneration recorded the higher fresh weight than SC1. The\r\nhighest mean of 12.12 was recorded in 4n variety progenies\r\nat 2 min irradiation treatment. Whereas the lowest mean of\r\n5.90 was obtained in 0.1% EMS treated 2n variety. The CV\r\nvalues were generally high for fresh weight of berries in\r\nboth the varieties. Based on these results, it can be\r\nconcluded that the tissue culture, along with mutagen\r\ntreatments can generate more variation in yield as a\r\ncompounded effect of induced variations in yield attributes.\r\nBhatt and Heble (1978) reported an increase in the average\r\nweight of fruits/plants in irradiated diploid mutants of\r\nSolanum khasianum.\r\nQualitative variations : Variations in qualitative traits\r\nin mutation and tissue culture have been widely reported\r\n(Earle and Gracen, 1985; Sun et al. 1993). These variations\r\nmay or may not be of agronomic importance, although they\r\nadd to our understanding of the genetics of linked traits\r\nand different metabolic systems. The spectrum of variation\r\nobserved in SC1 and SC1M1 generations included less spiny/\r\nspineless plants, sterile plant types, dwarf plant types and\r\ncomplete pollen sterility. Occurrence of spineless plants were\r\ncommon irrespective of all the treatments in SC1 and SC1M1\r\ngeneration. Khanna et al. (1976) observed the same in\r\nregenerated plants of S. khasianum. If at all one or two\r\nspines are present on the dorsal surface of the leaves they\r\nare blunt or curved. Dwarf plant types were higher in\r\ngamma irradiated progenies of 4n variety. Maximum of 27%\r\nwas recorded in 4n variety irradiated for 2 min, whereas 4n\r\nKumar and Tejavathi 31\r\nvariety control (SC1) showed only 9%. While 2n variety\r\nexhibited the same frequency at 0.3% EMS treatment. Dwarf\r\nvariants were not noted in 2n control (SC1) progenies.\r\nSun et al. (1993) have reported dwarf mutants in rice\r\nsomaclones. The frequency of variation was however less\r\nin the non-irradiated SC1 compared to SC1M1.\r\nMaximum percent of sterile plant types (27%) were\r\nrecorded in 2n variety at 2 min irradiation treatment.\r\nComparativelymaximum percent of sterile plant type variants\r\nwere recorded in gamma irradiated treatments than EMS\r\ntreatments. There are several reports of sterile plant types\r\nof non flowering plants in SC1 generation of many crops\r\nlike wheat (Eapen et al. 1985) and barley (Ahloowalia 1987).\r\nHowever, Wattanasiri and Walton (1993) did not encounter\r\nsterile plant types in smooth bromegrass cultures. Highest\r\npercent of complete pollen sterility variants (27%) was\r\nrecorded in 4n variety at 0.1 EMS treatment and 4 min\r\nirradiation treatments. In regular mutation studies seed\r\nirradiation brings pollen sterility of different degrees in crop\r\nplants. According to Nandakumar (1983) autotetraploids\r\ncould be easily recognized from diploids based on their\r\nlow pollen fertility. Sreekantaradhya (1979) observed\r\nreduction in fertility upto 80.20% in 50 kr of gamma radiation\r\nseed treatment in Eleusine coracana. Decrease in pollen\r\nfertility in SC1 generation of rice (Fan et al., 1991) and\r\nbarley (Ahloowalia 1987) have also been documented.\r\nB. SC2 and SC2M2 generation\r\nSC2 and SC2M2 progenies were obtained from the seeds\r\nof SC1 and SC1M1 progenies respectively. Their growth\r\nperformance was compared with seed control progenies,\r\nwhich were raised from the seeds of naturally grown parents\r\nand served as control. The morphological parameters that\r\nwere analyzed for first generation were studied even in this\r\nsecond generation.\r\nQuantitative variations : In both SC2 and SC2M2\r\nprogenies plant height generally lowered below that of seed\r\ncontrol in both the varieties. It was also observed that\r\nthere were more plants with lower height as compared to\r\ncontrol in all treatment of both varieties. Higher frequencies\r\nof deviants (70.86%) were recorded in 4n variety of 4 min\r\nirradiation treatment. CV generally increased above that of\r\ncontrol in both the varieties at all treatments which rather a\r\nreflection of frequency of variants. Progenies of both the\r\ntreated varieties varied significantly from the seed control\r\nfor mean and variances as confirmed by\'t\' test. Reduction\r\nin plant height was reported in somaclones of Paspalum\r\nspecies (Davies and Cohen 1992) Rice (Fan et al. 1991),\r\nwheat (Kardimora 1993) and maize (Dolgikh et al. 1992).\r\nNayar et al. (1974) have also reported plants with lower\r\nheight mutants in M2 generation of finger millet varieties.\r\nLower mean values for plant spread were recorded in\r\nall the treated progenies compared to seed control in both\r\nthe varieties. Though the frequency of deviants increased\r\nin relation to seed control in all the treatments, the change\r\nwas mostly towards negative side. It is the reflection of\r\nincreased incidence of plants with lower plant spread as\r\nexpected, the\'t\' test indicated that these treatments to be\r\nmarginally different from the control in both the varieties.\r\nReddy (1988) evaluated 22 diploid and 18 C6 generation\r\ninduced autotetraploids lines of Solanum viarum for their\r\nmorphological characters. He observed parity for plant\r\nspread in both directions. Ravindra et al. (2004) however\r\nreported wider plant spread in SC1 generation of rose\r\nscented geraniums and decreased spread in SC2 generation.\r\nWhile a modest range of 1 to 6 (2n) or 1 to 7 (4n)\r\nflowers per node were observed in the seed control,\r\nmaximum number of 14 (4n) and 22 (2n) flowers per node in\r\nEMS treatment and 14 (4n) and 18 (2n) flowers per node in\r\nirradiated treatments were recorded. Most of the deviations\r\nin these treatments were falling in the high flower number\r\nrange in both the varieties. Significant increase in mean\r\nwas noticed between the seed control and the treatments\r\nin both the varieties. All the treatments were differed\r\nsignificantly from the seed control in both the varieties as\r\nindicated by \'t\' test. The early flower falling was successfully\r\nchecked for crucial five days in both the varieties that is\r\nbetween 90-95 days for 2n variety and 125 to 130 days for\r\n4n variety by good agro management practices such as in\r\ntime water feeding, manure applications, pest control and\r\nfavourable environmental conditions. Hence, the above\r\nmentioned statistical analysis for flowers/node holds good\r\nfor fruits/node parameter also in all the treatments for both\r\nthe varieties. Ammal and Bhatt (1971) in Solanum\r\nkhasiamum, Meheswar (1983) in S. viarum var. BARC and\r\nGowda et al. (1987) in S. viarum also reported higher number\r\nof fruits per node in C2 generation of autotetraploids.\r\nAccording to Bhama (1991) both in diploids and tetraploids\r\nof Solanum viarum, in addition to ber ry number,\r\ncontribution of big sized berries to berry yield proved very\r\nimportant as these characters have selection value.\r\nHowever, Mahadevu (1998) had observed negative shift in\r\nmean in Vigna spp.\r\nThe variation for fresh weight of fruits was more as a\r\nresult of in vitro culture and in vitro mutagenesis in both\r\nthe varieties. The fresh weight per berry of SC2 and SC2M2\r\ngeneration increased over seed control in all the treatments\r\nof both the varieties. In all the treatments widening of the\r\nrange was observed. Highest mean of 10.87 was recorded\r\nin 4n variety at 4 min irradiated treatment which is higher\r\nthan the seed control (8.66). CV was very high than that of\r\nseed control in all the treatments of both the varieties. The\r\nincreased in range was reflected by the frequency of\r\ndeviants, CV and mean values in gamma irradiated\r\nprogenies. The increase in variability in both the directions\r\nwas a clear indication of polygenic variability released by\r\ntissue culture and in vitro mutagenesis.\r\nQualitative variations : Less spine/spineless character\r\nwas retained in SC2 and SC2M2 generation indicating its\r\nhereditable nature. Rev and Bras (2003) isolated spineless\r\nsomaclones from the cultures of pineapple. Dwarf plant\r\ntypes were observed in 2n variety among all EMS treatment.\r\nComparatively less dwarf plants were observed in 4n variety\r\n32 Kumar and Tejavathi\r\nin both the treatments compared to 2n variety in SC2 and\r\nSC2M2 generation though highest number of 22 plants (20%)\r\nwas observed in SC2 progeny of 4n variety. Gamma\r\nirradiation treatments promoted the dwarfness in both 2n\r\nand 4n varieties except at 6 min irradiation treatment in 4n\r\nvariety. However, dwarf plants were more in SC2 generation.\r\nSun et al. (1993) reported dwarf mutants in rice somaclones.\r\nComplete pollen sterility variants were observed in the\r\nprogenies of 4n variety in all the treatments of EMS and\r\ngamma irradiation. 4n variety recorded maximum of 12\r\nvariants at 6 min irradiation and 26 variants at 0.4% EMS\r\ntreatments. Decreased fertility in SC2 generation was\r\nrecorded in rice (Oono et al. 1986) wheat (Chen et al. 1987)\r\nand sorghum (Ma et al. 1986).\r\nSterile plant types or non-flowering plants were\r\nnegligible percent in both the varieties. They are completely\r\nabsent in 4n variety except in 0.5% EMS treatment.\r\nHowever, sterile plant types were observed among the\r\nprogenies of Basmathi rice somalcones (Abbas et al. 1988).\r\nSomaclonal variation vs. in vitro mutagenesis\r\nFrequency of variant progenies in SC2M2 was more than\r\nSC2 for many characters both quantitative and qualitative.\r\nXiong and Zheng (1982) suggested that issue culture\r\ncoupled with in vitro mutagenesis increases the frequency\r\nof variations. It is the indication of mutagenesis affecting\r\nthe proportion of somaclonal variants. Abeysekera (1992)\r\nsuggested that tissue culture accompanied with mutagen\r\ntreatment is highly effective. Another important factor noted\r\nwas that SC1 plants had lesser progenies of variants than\r\nSC1M1 and was continued to SC2 and SC2M2 generation.\r\nSomaclonal variation frequency (SVF)\r\nIt refers to the proportion of detectable variants in a\r\ngiven population. SVF is significant in both the treatments.\r\nWhile SC2 generation recorded the SVF of 45.10% for 2n\r\nand 43.84% for 4n, EMS treatments recorded the SVF of\r\n46.51% for 4n and 42.31% for 2n. Whereas in gamma\r\nirradiation, the maximum of SVF of 50.39% for 2n and 53.46%\r\nfor 4n were recorded. On an average, 4n had high SVF\r\ncompared to 2n variety. The comparable SVF observed\r\namong treatments suggest in vitro mutagenesis may be of\r\nan extra significance compared to in vitro culture in term of\r\nfrequency and spectrum of var iants generated\r\n(Figs. 1 and 2).','D.R. Maruthi Kumar and D.H. Tejavathi (2011). In-vitro Mutagenic Studies in Solanum viarum. Biological Forum An International Journal, 3(2): 25-33. '),(4741,'126','Plant Species Diversity in Ropa - Giavung Valley in Cold Deserts of\r\nDistrict Kinnaur, Himachal Pradesh','R.K. Verma and K.S. Kapoor','7 DR RK VERMA.pdf','',1,'A study was conducted to understand the plant diversity along an altitudinal gradient with\r\nelevations varying from 3000m to 5000m above msl in Ropa- Giavung valley falling in cold desert area of Pooh\r\nsub division of district Kinnaur, Himachal Pradesh during 2008. The total number of plant species was 160\r\nbelonging to 51 families and 119 genera. The dominant families were Asteraceae, Polygonaceae, Rosaceae and\r\nRanunculaceae. The number of tree species at 3000-3500m was 12 with the dominance of Pinus gerardiana. The\r\nnumber of shrub species were 20 and 15 in the elevations of 3000-3500m and 3500-4000m respectively. Rosa\r\nwebbiana and Juniperus indica taking shape of the dominant shrub at 3000-3500m and 3500-4000m elevations\r\nrespectively. The number of herb species were 83, 46, 44 and 30 at 3000-3500m, 3500-4000m, 4000-4500m and\r\n4500-5000m elevational ranges respectively. On the basis of Importance Value Index (IVI), Ephedra gerardiana,\r\nArtemisia brevifolia, Bistorta affinis and Potentilla argyrophylla were the dominant herbs dotting different elevational\r\nranges and distribution pattern of plant species was mostly contiguous in all the altitudes. Index of diversity\r\nfor herb species in different elevational ranges was 3.97, 3.54, 3.16 and 2.98. Index of similarity for herb species\r\nbetween different altitudes was low indicating more dissimilarity of species between different altitudes.','Dominance, distribution pattern, diversity index, similarity index, IVI.','A study was conducted to understand the plant diversity along an altitudinal gradient with\r\nelevations varying from 3000m to 5000m above msl in Ropa- Giavung valley falling in cold desert area of Pooh\r\nsub division of district Kinnaur, Himachal Pradesh during 2008. The total number of plant species was 160\r\nbelonging to 51 families and 119 genera. The dominant families were Asteraceae, Polygonaceae, Rosaceae and\r\nRanunculaceae. The number of tree species at 3000-3500m was 12 with the dominance of Pinus gerardiana. The\r\nnumber of shrub species were 20 and 15 in the elevations of 3000-3500m and 3500-4000m respectively. Rosa\r\nwebbiana and Juniperus indica taking shape of the dominant shrub at 3000-3500m and 3500-4000m elevations\r\nrespectively. The number of herb species were 83, 46, 44 and 30 at 3000-3500m, 3500-4000m, 4000-4500m and\r\n4500-5000m elevational ranges respectively. On the basis of Importance Value Index (IVI), Ephedra gerardiana,\r\nArtemisia brevifolia, Bistorta affinis and Potentilla argyrophylla were the dominant herbs dotting different elevational\r\nranges and distribution pattern of plant species was mostly contiguous in all the altitudes. Index of diversity\r\nfor herb species in different elevational ranges was 3.97, 3.54, 3.16 and 2.98. Index of similarity for herb species\r\nbetween different altitudes was low indicating more dissimilarity of species between different altitudes.','Himalayas are one of the largest and youngest\r\nmountain chains in the world and cover roughly 10% of\r\nIndia total land surface. Variations in terms of its size,\r\nclimate and altitudinal ranges have created environments\r\nthose are unique and characteristic to this region only. The\r\ndiverse climate and the varied environmental conditions\r\nprevailing in Himalayas support diverse habitat and\r\necosystems with equally diverse life forms. It provides an\r\nimportant habitat to the flora and fauna including 9,000\r\nspecies of angiosperms and hence, is considered as the\r\nhot spot of biodiversity. There are about 3,470 species\r\nconsidered exclusively endemic to the Himalayas. The cold\r\ndeserts in India occur in Ladakh region of Jammu & Kashmir,\r\nSpiti valley of Lahaul and Spiti district and Pooh sub\r\ndivision of Kinnaur district of Himachal Pradesh. The total\r\narea under cold deserts in Himachal Pradesh is about 11,000\r\nsq.km., out of which 3,400 sq.km. area is in Kinnaur district.\r\nHuman pressure on natural ecosystems is intensifying, some\r\nbeing incompatible with survival of certain species of\r\nplants.\r\nIn cold desert areas, continuous removal of plant\r\nspecies for various uses and overgrazing by migratory\r\nlivestock have resulted in desertification and loss of\r\nbiodiversity. If these naturally occurring plant resources are\r\nnot timely conserved then they may soon become extinct.\r\nIn cold desert this genetic erosion coupled with soil erosion\r\nmay retard prospects of future economic development and\r\nwelfare of the people. The assessment of plant wealth in\r\nthis harsh cold arid belt may provide a key for its\r\nconservation. Keeping these aspects in view, a study was\r\nundertaken to know the plant diversity in Ropa-Giavung\r\nvalley of cold desert in Kinnaur district of Himachal Pradesh.\r\nMATERIALS AND METHODS\r\nThe present study was conducted in Ropa- Giavung\r\nvalley of cold desert area of Pooh sub division of district\r\nKinnaur, Himachal Pradesh during, 2007 at an elevation of\r\n3000 m to 5000 m. The study site was situated 31o42\' 93.6\"\r\nto 31o43\' 98.7\" N latitude and 78° 23’ 94.1\" to 78° 31’ 72.8\"E\r\nlongitudes. The whole area of the valley was divided into\r\nfour altitudes i.e. 3000-3500m, 3500-4000m, 4000-4500m and\r\n4500-5000 m for conducting the phyto-sociological study.\r\nQuadrats of size 10 × 10m, 3 × 3m amd 1 × 1m laid out\r\nrandomly for enumerating trees, shrubs and herbs +\r\nregeneration respectively. The seedlings were considered\r\nas herb while saplings as shrubs. The vegetation data was\r\nanalysed for density, frequency and abundance according\r\nto formulas given by Curtis and McIntosh (1950). The\r\nrelative values of density, frequency and dominance were\r\nsummed to get Importance Value Index (IVI) of individual\r\nspecies. The abundance to frequency ratio (A/F) of different\r\nspecies was determined for eliciting the distribution pattern.\r\nThis ratio indicates regular (<0.025), random (0.025 to 0.050)\r\nand contiguous (>0.050) distribution (Curtis and Cottam,\r\n1956). The plant species diversity was calculated by using\r\nShanon-Wiener diversity Index (H) (Shannon-Wiener, 1963).\r\n1\r\n( / ) ln( / )\r\nS\r\ni\r\nH Ni N Ni N\r\n\r\n\r\nBiological Forum An International Journal, 3(2): 34-43(2011) ISSN No. (Print) : 0975-1130\r\nISSN No. (Online) : 2249-3239\r\nVerma and Kapoor 35\r\nConcentration of dominance (C) was measured by\r\nSimpson\'s Index (Simpson, 1949).\r\n2\r\n1\r\n( / )\r\nS\r\ni\r\nC Ni N\r\n\r\n\r\nwhere Ni = importance value of species i and N = total\r\nimportance value of all the species in both the indices.\r\nIndex of similarity and dissimilarity between different\r\naltitudes were calculated by using following formula (Misra,\r\n1989).\r\nIndex of similarity, S = 2C/A + B\r\nwhere A = number of species in community A, B =\r\nnumber of species in community B, C = number of species\r\ncommon to both communities.\r\nIndex of dissimilarity = 1 S\r\nRichness Index was estimated as per Margalef (1958)\r\ni.e. R = S 1/ln N\r\nEvenness Index was calculated as per Hill (1973) i.e.\r\nE = H/ln S\r\nwhere S = total number of species, N = total number of\r\nindividuals of all the species, H = Index of diversity.\r\nRESULTS AND DISCUSSION\r\nThe total number of plant species was 160 belonging\r\nto 51 families and 119 genera. The dominant families were\r\nAsteraceae, Polygonaceae, Rosaceae and Ranunculaceae.\r\nAt elevation 3000-3500 m, total number of tree species was\r\n12 (Table 1). Pinus gerardiana was dominant species\r\nhaving maximum density, frequency and abundance. This\r\nwas followed by Salix alba, Cedrus deodara and Populus\r\nciliata in term of density. For a particular species, higher\r\nfrequency indicates its more frequent distribution at a\r\nparticular site. Pinus gerardiana recorded highest value in\r\nterm of IVI (101.96) followed by Salix alba (36.32) and\r\nCedrus deodara (33.98). The community identified was\r\nPinus gerardiana-Salix alba in this elevation. The ratio of\r\nabundance to frequency (A/F) indicates the distribution\r\npattern of all the species except Populus ciliata, Pinus\r\ngerardiana, Juglans regia and Cedrus deodara was\r\ncontiguous. The contiguous distribution is the commonest\r\npattern in nature, random distribution is found in very\r\nuniform environment. The general preponderance of\r\ncontiguous distribution in vegetation has been reported by\r\nseveral workers (Kershaw, 1973; Singh and Yadava, 1974;\r\nKunhikannan et al., 1998).\r\nAmong the 20 species of shrub including saplings\r\n(Table 2), Rosa webbiana was the dominant species having\r\nmaximum density and frequency. It was followed by Colutea\r\nnepalensis, Myricaria germanica and Sorbaria tomentosa\r\nin term of density. In term of abundance, Colutea nepalensis\r\nobserved maximum value followed by Myricaria germanica,\r\nFraxinus xanthoxyloides and Rosa webbiana. Rosa\r\nwebbiana recorded highest value of IVI (79.23) followed\r\nby Colutea nepalensis (26.97) and Salix denticulata (20.49).\r\nThe ratio of abundance to frequency (A/F) showed that\r\ndistribution pattern of all the species was contiguous.\r\nIn case of herbs including regeneration, total number\r\nof species was 83 at elevation of 3000-3500m (Table 3).\r\nEphedra gerardiana was the dominant species having\r\nmaximum density followed by Artemisia brevifolia, Rumex\r\nnepalensis and Polygonum paronychioides. In term of\r\nabundance, Bergenia stracheyi noted maximum value\r\nfollowed by Ephedra gerardiana, Artemisia brevifolia and\r\nPolygonum paronychioides. Ephedra gerrardiana recorded\r\nhighest value of IVI (28.96) followed by Cirsium wallichi\r\n(20.55), Polygonum paronychioides (16.69) and Rumex\r\nnepalensis (14.94). The distribution pattern of all species\r\nexcept Heracleum candicans was contiguous.\r\nAt elevation 3500-4000m, total number of shrub species\r\nincluding saplings was 15 (Table 4). Juniperus indica was\r\ndominant species having maximum density and abundance.\r\nIt was followed by Rosa webbiana, Juniperus polycarpos\r\nand Lonicera quinquelocularis in term of density.\r\nJuniperus indica recorded highest value of IVI followed\r\nby Rosa webbiana, Juniperus polycarpos and Juniperus\r\ncommunis. The distribution pattern of all the species was\r\ncontiguous.\r\nIn case of herbs, total number of species was 46 at\r\n3500-4000m elevation (Table 5). Artemisia brevifolia was\r\ndominant herb having maximum density and abundance\r\nfollowed by Bergenia stracheyi. The value of frequency\r\nwas maximum for Stellaria media followed by Artemisia\r\nbrevifolia. On the basis of IVI, Artemisia brevifolia was\r\ndominant species followed by Hyoscyamus niger, Bergenia\r\nstracheyi and Thymus linearis. The distribution pattern of\r\nall the species was contiguous.\r\nAt elevation 4000-4500 m, total number of herb species\r\nwas 44 (Table 6). Bistorta affinis was dominant species\r\nhaving maximum density followed by Arenaria festucoides,\r\nBergenia stracheyi and Potentila parviflora. On the basis\r\nof abundance, Arenaria festucoides recorded maximum value\r\nfollowed by Galium acutum, Bistorta affinis and Arenaria\r\ngriffithii. Bistorta affinis recorded highest value of IVI\r\nfollowed by Bergenia stracheyi, Arenaria festucoides and\r\nPotentilla parviflora. The distribution pattern of all species\r\nwas contiguous.\r\nAt elevation 4500-5000 m, total number of herb species\r\nwas 30 (Table 7). Potentilla argyrophylla was the dominant\r\nspecies having maximum density and frequency followed\r\nby Bistorta affinis, Androsace mucronifolia and Sibbaldia\r\nparviflora in term of density. In term of abundance, Bistorta\r\naffinis noted maximum value followed by Sibbaldia\r\nparviflora, Thymus linearis and Androsace mucronifolia.\r\nPotentilla argyrophylla recorded highest value of IVI (53.39)\r\nfollowed by Bistorta affinis (26.99), Sibbaldia parviflora\r\n(26.67) and Androsace mucronifolia (25.42). The distribution\r\npattern of all the species was contiguous.PLANTS OF MEDICINAL VALUE\r\nThe important plants of medicinal value found in the\r\nRopa-Giavung valley of cold desert area in Kinnaur district\r\nwere compiled following Chopra et al. (1956), Kirtikar and\r\nBasu (1987) and Kala (2002). These include, Aconitum ferox,\r\nAndrosace mucronifolia, Artemisia brevifolia, Artemisia\r\ngmelinii, Aster flaccidus, Bergenia stracheyi, Betula utilis,\r\nBupleurum falcatum, Cassiope fastigiata, Caltha palustris,\r\nCorydalis govaniana, Cousinia thomsonii, Cynoglossum\r\nmicranthum, Dactylorhiza hatagirea, Datisca cannabina,\r\nDelphinum brunonianum, Ephedra gerardiana, Echinops\r\ncornigerus, Erigeron alpinus, Fragaria vesca, Galium\r\naparine, Gentianella moorcroftiana, Geranium\r\nwallichianum, Heracleum candicans, Hippophae\r\nrhamnoides, Hyoscyamus niger, Hyssopus officinalis,\r\nJasminum humile, Juniperus communis, Juniperus\r\npolycarpos, Meconopsis aculeata, Mentha longifolia,\r\nMicromeria biflora, Origanum vulgare, Oxyria digyna,\r\nPleurospermum candollei, Polygonatum verticillatum,\r\nPrimula denticulata, Ranunculus hirtellus, Rheum\r\nwebbianum, Rhodiola heterodonta, Rosa webbiana, Rumex\r\nnepalensis, Salvia nubicola, Saussurea obvallata, Sedum\r\newersii, Selinum tenuifolium, Solanum nigrum, Tanacetum\r\nlongifolium, Taraxacum officinale, Thalictrum foliolosum,\r\nThymus linearis, Trifolium pretense, Urtica dioica and\r\nVerbascum Thapsus.\r\nTHREATENED PLANTS\r\nOut of 60 medicinal plant species recorded from the\r\narea, 14 species i.e. Bergenia stracheyi, Betula utilis,\r\nDactylorhiza hatagirea, Datisca cannabina, Ephedra\r\ngerardiana, Hippophae rhamnoides, Hyssopus officinalis,\r\nHyoscyamus niger, Juniperus polycarpos, Meconopsis\r\naculeata, Polygonatum verticillatum, Rheum webbianum,\r\nRhodiola heterodonta, Saussurea obvallata fall in the\r\ncategory of threatened plants.The habitat of most of the\r\nplant species have shrunk due to expansion of human\r\npopulation and environmental degradation primarily due to\r\nheavy live stock grazing, uncontrolled and unscientific\r\nharvest of species, unregulated tourism and construction\r\nof roads etc. The better conservation of natural resources\r\ncan be done by inclusion of a section on the plant\r\nconservation especially of rare and endangered medicinal\r\nplants in the wild life protection act, promotion of\r\ncommunity based conservation, in-situ conservation through\r\nthe establishment of nature reserves, ex-situ conservation\r\nthrough tissue culture, developing cultivation technologies\r\nand nurseries of medicinal plants and conducting of regular\r\nVerma and Kapoor 43\r\ntraining on the procedure of medicinal plants collection,\r\nprocessing among the local people, traders and real stake\r\nholders.','R.K. Verma and K.S. Kapoor (2011). Plant Species Diversity in Ropa - Giavung Valley in Cold Deserts of District Kinnaur, Himachal Pradesh. Biological Forum An International Journal, 3(2): 34-43. '),(4742,'126','The Serological Variation Among Tribal and Non-Tribal Popullation of\r\nHimachal Pradesh','Indira Pathania','8 DR INDIRA.pdf','',1,'Data is presented on distribution of the ABO, Rh (D) blood groups in one thousand individuals\r\nfrom non-tribal and one thousand individuals from tribal population of Himachal Pradesh in India. The study\r\nwas conducted to see the difference between non-tribal and tribal population by calculating gene frequencies.\r\nThe frequencies of alleles O, A, B, and AB were found to be 24.0%, 27.0%, 31.0% and 18.0% in the non-tribal\r\npopulation and 23.0%, 22.0%, 44.0 % and 11.0% observed in the tribal population. The incidence of (Rhve)\r\nphenotype was found 9% in tribal population and 10.7% in non-tribal population of Himachal Pradesh.','Allelic frequency, Blood Groups, Tribal and Non- Tribal population.','The pattern of ABO blood groups distribution of\r\nHimachal Pradesh is similar with that of North-west Indian\r\npopulation. The present serological investigation has\r\ndemonstrated great heterogeneity in the distribution of the\r\nABO and Rh (D) blood groups among caste and tribal\r\npopulations inhabiting Himachal Pradesh. Predominance of\r\nthe B blood group and lowest incidence of the\r\nRh (D)-phenotype observed in both non-tribal and tribal\r\npopulation of this study is indeed a characteristic of\r\nTibetans also. Several immigrant samples of that have now\r\nbeen investigated from different parts of India (Mourant et\r\nPathania 47\r\nal., 1976: Bhasin et al., 1992). The study suggests the close\r\ngenetic affinities between different Bhotia groups of tribal\r\nregion and Tibetans. In addition, close geographical\r\nproximity of the border districts of Lahoul Spiti and\r\nKinnaur to Tibet and Garhwal in the north as well. The\r\ntrade and cultural links between Bhotias and Tibetans over\r\ncenturies have provided ample opportunities for continued\r\ngene flow between these populations.','The Indian populations comprised of about 4,000\r\nendogamous groups are stratified into various castes and\r\ntribes bound together by social factors, offering an excellent\r\nscope for genetic studies (Bhasin et al., 1992) The\r\npopulation genetic studies carried out in Himachal Pradesh\r\n(Bhasin et al., 1992, Papiha et al., 1996) and northwest India\r\nare quite limited (Kushwaha et al., 1990, Yadav and Gupta\r\n1992, Yadav et al., 1997a, 1997b, 2001, Yadav and Singh\r\n2002)Tribes and non-tribes occupy 40% to 60% of the total\r\ngeographical area of the state. The study aimed at\r\ninvestigating the distribution of serological trait among tribal\r\nand non-tribal populations in Himachal Pradesh.\r\nMATERIAL AND METHOD\r\nThe tribes are mostly engaged in semi-agricultural\r\nactivities. Festivals and fairs are an important part of cultural\r\nlife of people. Serological data were collected from individual\r\nresiding in different localities in Pangi and Keylong of tribal\r\nregion and Shimla, Solan, Mandi Hamirpur and Palampur in\r\nnon-tribal regions of Himachal Pradesh. For each regions\r\n1000 unrelated individual were randomly sampled. The\r\nfollowing traits investigated and their allele frequencies\r\nwere analyzed.\r\nInvestigations were made following standard technique\r\nof Weiner and Lourie (1969). The red blood cells were typed\r\nfor ABO and Rh (D) systems following standard serological\r\ntechniques. Tests with antisera Anti-A, Anti-B and Anti-D\r\nwere performed by conventional slide agglutination method.\r\nThe gene frequency was calculated by using Hardy and\r\nWeinberg Law of Equilibrium (1908) i.e., (P + Q)2 =1 and\r\nP2 + Q2 + 2PQ = 1 To test the significance of results,\r\nMean, Standard Deviation (S.D), Coefficient of Variation\r\n(Snedecor and Cochran, 1976) and Fisher \"t-test were\r\napplied in the study.\r\nRESULT AND DISCUSSION\r\nThe distribution of ABO blood group system studied\r\nhas been shown in Table 1 for the two populations. In the\r\nnon-tribal population blood group B (31.0%) is predominant\r\nfollowed by group A (27.0%), O (24.0%) and AB (18.0%).In\r\nthe tribes blood group B(44.0%) predominant followed by\r\nO (23.0%), A (22.0%) and AB (11.0%).\r\nBlood Group \'O\':\r\nIn the non-tribal population the incidence of blood\r\ngroup O with Rh factor is shown in Table 1. Comparative\r\nstatistically analyzed data for phenotypic frequency of blood\r\ngroup O-ve showed non significant differences in both the\r\nregions. The coefficient of variation for phenotypic\r\nfrequency was higher for O, O+ve, and Ove in the tribal\r\nregion which shows the variations for these groups with\r\nRhve and Rh+ve factor in the tribal populations.\r\nGenotypic frequency had non significant values for\r\nblood group O and O+ve which showed the variability in\r\nboth regions where as Ove showed the significant values\r\nin both the regions (Table 2). Co-efficient of variation was\r\nhigher for group O, O+ve and Ove in tribes. Nath, et al.,\r\n(2000) reported group O higher with Rhve factor remarkably\r\nlow among Adi (mixed) tribal population of Arunchal\r\nPradesh. Reedy and Papa Rao (1995) also reported the\r\nhighest frequency of O group among the Sugalis tribes in\r\nAndhra Pradesh. In the present investigation the phenotypic\r\nfrequency of blood group O showed close resemblance with\r\nother population of Punjab i.e. Bazigar (28.79%) (Sidhu and\r\nSidhu 1988), Chamars (27.67%) (Sidhu 1994) and Khatik\r\nHarijans (28.57%) (Sidhu, 1999). Similar observations were\r\nmade by Bhattacharjee (1954), Balgir and Dutta (1990), Naidu\r\nand Misra (1995) and Singh, et al., (1997)\r\nBlood Group \'A\':\r\nThe blood group A with Rh factor (27%) was in the\r\nnon-tribes and (22%) in the tribes (Table 1). Statistically\r\nBiological Forum An International Journal, 3(2): 44-47(2011) ISSN No. (Print) : 0975-1130\r\nISSN No. (Online) : 2249-3239\r\nPathania 45\r\nanalyzed data for phenotypic frequency of this blood group\r\nshowed significant differences (p < 0.01) values for A and\r\nA+ve whereas Ave was non-significant. These values\r\nrecorded for phenotypic frequency showed the variation\r\nfor A and A+ve blood groups in both the regions. In case\r\nof Ave the homogeneous distribution found in tribal and\r\nnon-tribal populations.Genotypic frequency had highly significant (p < 0.01)\r\nvalues for A and A+ve. The Ave blood group has nonsignificant\r\nvalues. Chahal et al., (1995) found the frequency\r\nof blood group A higher than B in the tribal population of\r\nBhotia group from Tihari and Pauri districts of Uttar Pradesh\r\nHimalayas. Present investigations showed the slightly higher\r\nfrequency of blood group A in the non-tribal (27%) as\r\ncompared to the tribes (22%) (Table 2).\r\nVarious studies reported for the different caste of\r\nPunjab by Sidhu (1981), 27.32% in Bazigar, Ahuja and Sidhu\r\n(1981), 28.98% in Gujars, (Sidhu and Sidhu 1980), 20.50% in\r\nSansis, Sidhu (1995), 20.67% in Sikh Harijans and Sidhu\r\n(1999), in Balmiki Harijans 20% and Khatik Harijans 23.81%.\r\nIn the present investigations in the tribal region mixed type\r\nof population includes Bhotia, Rajput, Koli and Hali etc.\r\nBlood Group \'B\':\r\nThe blood group B with Rh factor was (31%) in the\r\nnon-tribes and (44%) in the tribes (Table 1). Statistical data\r\nfor phenotypic frequency of blood group B and B+ve have\r\nhighly significant (p < 0.01) .Blood group Bve has nonsignificant\r\nvalues for both the regions. These values\r\nshowed the heterogeneous distribution for B and B+ve and\r\nhomogeneous distribution for Bve in both the regions. The\r\ncoefficient of variation showed the variation for B and B+ve\r\nin the tribes, where as Bve has variation in the non-tribal\r\npopulations. Genotypic frequency also showed the variation\r\nfor B and B+ve in the non-tribal, but the Bve blood group\r\nhas variation for tribal populations (Table 2). This shows\r\nthat B blood group is more predominant in the tribal region\r\nas compared to the non-tribal regions.\r\nTiwari (1972) also reported the higher frequency of\r\nblood group B among caste population group of Southern\r\nHimalayas adjoining Tibet in northern region and showed\r\nhigher frequency of blood group B.with Rh factors (Table 1). Comparative statistically analyzed\r\ndata for phenotypic frequency of blood group has high\r\nsignificant values (p < 0.01) for AB and AB+ve and non\r\nsignificant values for AB-ve group. The coefficient of\r\nvariation showed heterogeneity for AB, AB+ve, and ABve in\r\nthe tribal region ad homogeneity in non-tribal region.\r\nGenotypic frequency also showed significant values\r\n(p < 0.05) for blood group AB, AB+ve and ABve indicating\r\nthe variation in both regions (Table 2). Coefficient of\r\nvariation showed great variation for group AB and AB+ve in\r\nthe tribal population. The ABve blood group showed\r\nvariation in non-tribal population (Table 2). Nath, et al.,\r\n(2000) recorded least value for AB group in Adi (mixed)\r\ntribal population of Arunachal Pradesh. In the present\r\ninvestigation the phenotypic frequency of blood group AB\r\nshowed close resemblance with other population of Punjab\r\ni.e. Bazigar (7.76%) (Sidhu and Sidhu 1988), Chamars (9.0%)\r\n(Sidhu 1994) and Khatik Harijans (9.52%) (Sidhu, 1999). In\r\nthe present investigation tribal population has also showed\r\nlow incidence (11%) of AB blood group.\r\nRh factor\r\nThe incidence of Rh+ve (89.3%) and Rhve (10.7%) was\r\nfound in the non-tribes where as in the tribal population of\r\nRh+ve (91.0%) and Rhve (9.0%). Result presented in the\r\n(Table 1) showed lowest incidences of Rhve factor and\r\nhighest Rh+ve in both the regions. Similarly Chahal (1995)\r\nobserved low incidence of Rh-ve factors (1.67-7.82%) in\r\nthe caste population of Garhwal division of Uttar Pradesh,\r\nand for Brahmin and Rajput of Garhwal (4.8-7%) (Tiwari\r\nand Bhasin, 1968). Paramanik and Paramanik (2000) also\r\nfound lowest frequency of Rhve (3.33%) and highest for\r\nRh+ve (96.66%) in the Nepalese students. Same results were\r\nobserved for Rh+ve factor in the present investigations from\r\nin both non-tribal and tribal regions (Table 1).','Indira Pathania (2011). The Serological Variation Among Tribal and Non-Tribal Popullation of Himachal Pradesh. Biological Forum An International Journal, 3(2): 44-47. '),(4743,'126','The Effects of Plants Toxin from Fruit Extract of Sapindus laurifolius\r\non Mortality of Fresh Water Snail, Bellamya bengalensis (Lamark)','Jini Deshmane* and S.G. Nanaware','9 DESHMANE.pdf','',1,'In order to elucidate the effects of toxin form the fruit extract of Sapindus laurifolius on the\r\nmortality of fresh water snail, Bellamya bengalensis, the present investigation was undertaken. The LC50 values\r\nof this toxin were determined for the 24 hrs., 48 hrs., 72 hrs. and 96 hrs. by using Probit analysis method\r\n(Finney, 1971). The LC50 value was found to be 376.6, 215.3, 163.1 and 136.9 ppm for 24 hrs., 48 hrs., 72 hrs.\r\nand 96 hrs., respectively. The results indicated that the mortality of Bellamya bengalensis when exposed to the\r\nabove mention plant toxin was dose and time dependent. As the concentration of the toxin was increased, the\r\ntime to kill 5o per cent snails was decreased and vice-versa. Similarly, if the exposure period increased in the\r\nparticular concentration of the toxin the rate of mortality was also increased with advancing the exposure\r\nperiod. Such dose and time dependent mortality responses of the snail are interpreted in relation to the\r\ntoxicity of active principles in the fruit extract of Sapindus laurifolius.','Bellamya bengalensis, fruit extract of Sapindus laurifolius, mortality.','In order to elucidate the effects of toxin form the fruit extract of Sapindus laurifolius on the\r\nmortality of fresh water snail, Bellamya bengalensis, the present investigation was undertaken. The LC50 values\r\nof this toxin were determined for the 24 hrs., 48 hrs., 72 hrs. and 96 hrs. by using Probit analysis method\r\n(Finney, 1971). The LC50 value was found to be 376.6, 215.3, 163.1 and 136.9 ppm for 24 hrs., 48 hrs., 72 hrs.\r\nand 96 hrs., respectively. The results indicated that the mortality of Bellamya bengalensis when exposed to the\r\nabove mention plant toxin was dose and time dependent. As the concentration of the toxin was increased, the\r\ntime to kill 5o per cent snails was decreased and vice-versa. Similarly, if the exposure period increased in the\r\nparticular concentration of the toxin the rate of mortality was also increased with advancing the exposure\r\nperiod. Such dose and time dependent mortality responses of the snail are interpreted in relation to the\r\ntoxicity of active principles in the fruit extract of Sapindus laurifolius.','Mortality is nothing but the death of an organism at a\r\nparticular time. Recently, the death rate of an organism is\r\nincreased tremendously mainly due to fluctuations in\r\nenvironmental conditions (temperature, pH, salinity, humidity,\r\netc.) and also due to pollution. Polluted environment is\r\nless suitable for existing life forms (Menzel, 1977).\r\nThe indiscriminate use of chemical fertilizers and\r\npesticides created a problem of pollution. In agricultural\r\npractices farmers in order to get more yields used herbicides,\r\nmolluscicides, etc., to control the pests. These substances\r\nmay affect the behavior of animal, different organ systems\r\nlike respiration, reproduction, etc. Animals cannot sustain\r\nthe high toxicity of pollutants, they may die. These\r\nsubstances produce cumulative deleterious effect not only\r\non fishes but also on food web organisms inhabiting the\r\nenvironment.\r\nMortality plays an important role in toxicity study. To\r\ncalculate the sub lethal (LC50) and lethal (LC100) dose of\r\ntoxin for particular animal, it is necessary to know the per\r\ncent mortality of that animal for particular period, i.e. it is\r\nthe concentration that theoretically kills 50% or 100% of\r\nthe total population of test animals within a fixed period of\r\ntime (Buikema and Benfield, 1982; Sivaramakrishna et. al.,\r\n1991; Schmitt et. al., 1999). The concentrations are generally\r\nexpressed in parts per million (ppm) or parts per billion\r\n(ppb) to assess the toxicity of a toxin.\r\nThe toxicity of particular pollutants depends on many\r\nfactors such as animal weight (Pickering et. al., 1962), its\r\ndevelopmental stages (Kamaldeep and Toor, 1975), period\r\nof exposure, temperature (Macek et. al., 1969), pH, hardness\r\nof water and dissolved oxygen contents of medium. The\r\nchange in oxygen consumption can be considered as a tool\r\nin evaluation of toxicity by many workers in different aquatic\r\nanimals (Mane et. al., 1983; Muley et. al., 1987; Chaudhari\r\net. al., 1988).\r\nSnails are also important in agricultural practices as\r\nthese are harmful pests of paddy and vegetables. They\r\ndamage the root caps, vegetables mostly they damage the\r\nroots of paddy and hence so called \'Paddy root weevil\'.\r\nHence, in the present investigation it was aimed to study\r\nthe mortality responses induced due to application of fruit\r\nextract of Sapindus laurifolius to freshwater snail, Bellamya\r\nbengalensis.\r\nMATERIAL AND METHODS\r\nFor present investigation freshwater snail, Bellamya\r\nbengalensis was selected as experimental animal and fruit\r\nextract from plant Sapindus laurifolius was selected for\r\ntreatment.\r\nExperimental design\r\nSnails were collected from Rajaram tank, near Shivaji\r\nUniversity, Kolhapur and brought to laboratory. They were\r\nkept in plastic troughs for acclimatization. They were daily\r\nprovided with proper food and ventilation. For experiment,\r\nlarge size snails, on an average weight and length (3.5-4.5\r\ngm and 1.5-2.5 cm) were selected and experiments were\r\ncarried in plastic troughs having capacity of 5 liters. Six\r\ntroughs were taken with 10 snails each and provided with\r\n5 liter. water. One trough was considered as control and\r\nother five for different concentrations i.e. 100, 200, 300, 400\r\nand 500 ppm concentration of fruit extract of Sapindus\r\nBiological Forum An International Journal, 3(2): 48-51(2011) ISSN No. (Print) : 0975-1130\r\nISSN No. (Online) : 2249-3239\r\nDeshmane and Nanaware 49\r\nlaurifolius for the different time interval i.e. 24 hrs., 48 hrs.,\r\n72 hrs. and 96 hrs. of exposure period.\r\nThe number of dead snails from each trough was\r\nrecorded after intoxication period of 24 hrs., 48 hrs., 72 hrs,\r\nand 96 hrs. to study the mortality responses of exposed\r\nsnails. The dead snails were removed immediately. The\r\nexperiments were repeated 3 times for avoiding the error.\r\nThe observations were made on the snail mortality\r\n(mori bond snail was also considered as dead one). Per\r\ncent mortality rates were recorded at 24 hrs. of time intervals\r\nupto 96 hrs. The values above 0.5 were rounded off to\r\nnext higher number while values less than 0.5 were rounded\r\noff to the lower numbers. Final data was subjected to Probit\r\nanalysis (Finney, 1971) to find out the 50% concentration\r\n(LC50) after each 24 hrs. time interval.\r\nRESULT\r\nThe freshwater snail, Bellamya bengalensis when\r\nexposed to different concentrations of fruit extract from\r\nSapindus laurifolius showed mortality. There was no\r\nmortality observed in the control set, where as mortality\r\nwas observed in intoxicated snails. It must be noticed that\r\nall environmental factors like temperature, hardness, salinity\r\nand pH and dissolved oxygen of water in the control and\r\nexperimental troughs were normal even after addition of\r\nthe toxin. This clearly indicated that no factor other than\r\nplant toxin was responsible for the mortality of snails. The\r\nper cent mortality is recorded in Table 1. By using percent\r\nmortality data the Probit (Y), LnX, LnX2 and LnXY values\r\nwere determined. The regression equations and LC50 values\r\nwere determined by using values of \'b\' and \'a\'. The \'\'b\' and\r\n\'a\' values and regression equations for fruit extract of\r\nSapindus laurifolius when snails were exposed for 24 hrs.,\r\n48 hrs., 72 hrs. and 96 hrs. are recorded in Table 2. The\r\ngraphs of Probit (Y) against Log concentration (LnX) were\r\nplotted for different concentrations and from these graphs\r\nLC50 values were estimated by using Probit as five.\r\nThe LC50 values for fruit extract from Sapindus\r\nlaurifolius were found to be 376.6 ppm for 24 hrs. of\r\nexposure, 215.3 ppm for 48 hrs. of exposure, 163.1 ppm for\r\n72 hrs. of exposure and 136.9 ppm for 96 hrs. of exposure\r\n(by calculations). The mortality responses of snails were\r\nfound altered in different concentrations at different time\r\ninterval. The LC50 values for fruit extract from Sapindus\r\nlaurifolius were found to be 377.6 ppm for 24 hrs. of\r\nexposure, 215.1 ppm for 48 hrs. of exposure, 163.1 ppm for\r\n72 hrs. of exposure and 136.8 ppm for 96 hrs. of exposure\r\n(by graph). The LC50 values determined by both\r\ncalculations and graphical methods coincide with each other\r\nbut have negligible difference.\r\nFrom the data, it was clear that the per cent mortality\r\nwas increased with increase in concentration of plant toxin.\r\nIt was also noticed that per cent mortality was increased\r\nwith increase in exposure period. Hence the per cent\r\nmortality was found associated with the concentration of\r\nplant toxin.\r\nDISCUSSION\r\nThe study of mortality responses is an important\r\ncriterion in toxicological analysis of any chemicals. Mortality\r\nis one of the most noticeable effects of toxicity. The\r\nmortality responses also plays key role in the toxicological\r\nstudies. It is most essential to decide LC50 and LC100 doses\r\nof any toxin for particular animal. It will help to study\r\ntoxicity of that toxin in a specific animal. In present\r\ninvestigation, freshwater snail, Bellamya bengalensis were\r\nexposed to fruit extract from Sapindus laurifolius to study\r\nthe mortality responses.\r\nThese observations coincide with the observations of\r\nmany other workers, Kulkarni et. al. (1989) studied effects\r\nof endocel on Paphia laterisulca, Rajeswara et. al. (1983)\r\nobserved effects of phenthoate on Pila globosa, Muley\r\nand Mane (1989) on mercury salts to V. bengalensis and\r\non copper sulphate toxicity to Thiara turberculata (Mule\r\nand Lomte, 1992).\r\nThe present study revealed that, gill tissue gets\r\ndamaged due to toxic effect of molluscicides. The thick\r\nfilm of mucus was secreted by gills and foot to overcome\r\nthe toxic effects. This might be the reason for death of the\r\nsnails. Similar results were found by Rao et. al. (1990) when\r\nexposed Thiara lineata to cythion, malathion and\r\nendosulfan. Radhakrishnaiah (1988) on Lamellidens\r\nmarginalis after exposure to cadmium. This may be one of\r\ncause of mortality because due to cellular damage of gill\r\ntissue, this directly affects the rate of respiration and\r\nultimately leads to death.','Jini Deshmane* and S.G. Nanaware (2011). The Effects of Plants Toxin from Fruit Extract of Sapindus laurifolius on Mortality of Fresh Water Snail, Bellamya bengalensis (Lamark). Biological Forum An International Journal, 3(2): 48-51. '),(4744,'126','Effect of Ambient Temperature on the Growth of Fat Cells in Ageing\r\nDysdercus similis Freeman (Pyrrhocoridae Hetroptera)','Sadhna Tamot','10 DR SADHNA.pdf','',1,'Exposure to and rearing of the bugs at a higher temperature (30°C) since the last (5th) nymphal\r\nstage, triggered the metabolic activities in the fat cells earlier than normal, thus influencing the growth of the\r\nlater i.e. size of fat cells & their nuclei. There was apparently no effect on the longevity of the bug. Exposure\r\nand rearing in a lower temperature did not influence the growth of fat cells.','Ageing, Dysdercus similis.','Exposure to and rearing of the bugs at a higher temperature (30°C) since the last (5th) nymphal\r\nstage, triggered the metabolic activities in the fat cells earlier than normal, thus influencing the growth of the\r\nlater i.e. size of fat cells & their nuclei. There was apparently no effect on the longevity of the bug. Exposure\r\nand rearing in a lower temperature did not influence the growth of fat cells.','Aging process may be defined as those processes\r\noccurring in individuals which render them more likely to\r\ndie as they grow older, either from internal or external\r\ncauses. The fact that in poikilotherms an increase in\r\ntemperature reduces the life span has naturally been taken\r\nas showing that the rate of ageing process, like those of\r\nchemical reactions are dependent on temperature.\r\nSome workers such as Leob and Northrup (1917),\r\nAlpatov and Peart (1929), Alpatov (1930), Maynard Smith\r\n(1961) etc. have studied the effect of temperature on aging\r\nof Drosophila, where as Sharma et al (1979) have observed\r\ntemperature dependent longevity of Zabrotes subfaciatus\r\nand Jit and Sharma (1982), the life span of Zabrotes\r\nparavittiger. However the most of these studies relate to\r\neffect on the total life span and egg laying. According to\r\nSohal et al (1985) the decrease in the life span at higher\r\ntemperature is believed to be due to an increase in the\r\nmetabolic activity. Various insects are known to be able to\r\nbecome acclimatized to different temperature, as a result of\r\nwhich the position of their thermal death points may be\r\naltered. (Mellanby,1954). Taking the above into\r\nconsideration and since insect fat body is the main tissue\r\nfor intermediary metabolism - a process the rate of which\r\nmust affect the aging of an organism; it was proposed to\r\nexplore the effect of temperature on the growth and function\r\nof the fat body of the red cotton bug Dysdercus similis\r\nwith reference to its senescence. Some notable work on\r\ndifferent aspects of D. similis was reported by Rao et al\r\n(1983), Pathak (1980), Sita et al. (1983), Kumar & Thakur\r\n(1989), Bhide (1986,1991), Gupta (2009). The present paper\r\nis a part of the work and deals with effect of ambient\r\ntemperature on the growth of fat cells of the bug.\r\nMATERIAL AND METHODS\r\nThe red cotton bug Dysdercus similis was collected\r\nfrom its host plants Gossipium and hibiscus. They were\r\nthen reared in the laboratory at normal temperature\r\n(27-29°C) on moist cotton seeds in glass fronted cages. To\r\nobserve the effect of temperature on their metabolism, a\r\ngroup of bugs were reared at higher temperature (37°C)\r\nfrom the 5th nymphal stage on words. Another group was\r\nsimultaneously reared at low temperature 20°C. The fat body\r\nwas dissected out from adult females and males reared at\r\nnormal as well as elevated temperature at various periods\r\nof the full life span. The dissected material was fixed in\r\nCornoy\'s solution. Paraffin blocks were prepared and cut at\r\n6µ thickness. The sections were stained by P/MG method\r\nof Jorden and Baker as given by Pearse (1960) and size of\r\nfat cells and their nuclei were measured by using an accular\r\nmicro meter at X 600. Since cells and nuclei of a particular\r\nstage of the insect have areas which vary very slightly, a\r\nsingle average value has been used in all the tables. The\r\naverage values for each size was obtained from the mean\r\nof the areas of 30-35 cells from every stage of the insects.\r\nRESULT AND DISCUSSION\r\nThe fat cells of D. similis are oval to rectangular in\r\nshape and the nuclei are almost round. Under normal\r\nambient temperature, the fat cell size and nuclei size\r\nincreased or decreased as shown in table 1 and 3,\r\nAccording to synthesis/accumulation and release,\r\nrespectively of metabolites upto about 12 days in both the\r\nsexes. Then the nuclear size decreased in older bugs. After\r\n15 days the fat cells became distorted and remained as\r\nsuch till death.\r\nExposing to, and rearing the insects at a higher\r\ntemperature seemed to accelerate the metabolic activities of\r\nthe insects. The structure of the fat body of temperature\r\ntreated young adult e.g. four and eight day old looked like\r\nthat of a twelve to fourteen days old bug. Similarly fat\r\ncells of a twelve day old bug looked like those of eighteen\r\ndays old adult. The cells and nuclei of temperature treated\r\nindividuals were bigger in size than the normal adults as\r\nshown in table 2 and 4. P/MG staining also showed very\r\nintense reaction for nucleic acids in the fat cells. At 20°C\r\nthere was practically no change in the size of the fat cells\r\nand nucleic or in the deposition of nucleic acids.In the present work, effects of higher as well as lower\r\ntemperature than the normal environmental temperature have\r\nbeen investigated on the growth of fat bodies of female\r\nand male D. similis in relation to their ageing. Although\r\ngrowth is manifested to different extent in the cell and its\r\ncomponents. In the present study growth has been simply\r\ndefined as an increase in the cell size as in Drosophila\r\n(Butter worth, 1967) and Poekilocrous pictus (Banerjee,1983).\r\nGrowth may be due to enormous deposition of metabolites\r\nor increase in the background cytoplasm. The present study\r\nrevealed that the rate of accumulation is more and occurs\r\nearlier in insects reared at 37°C from 5th nymphal stage\r\nonwards, than in the fat body of normal individual. In other\r\nwords at higher temperature the synthetic/metabolic activity\r\nis accelerated. Accumulation of the metabolites synthesized\r\nat higher rate at elevated temperature causes hypertrophy\r\nof fat cells and nuclei which show increased sizes under\r\nthe microscope than normal cells and nuclei. Thus a higher\r\nambient temperature definitely accelerates the growth of fat\r\nbody in Dysdercus similis. Since ageing fat cells of normal\r\nindividuals show accumulation of metabolites, it can be said\r\nthat higher ambient temperature accelerates the aging\r\nprocess in this bug, when it is reared under that temperature\r\nsince its 5th nymphal stage. The total life span, as shown\r\nby the present work, remains un-altered in this bug, when\r\nreared at higher temperature. According to Leob et al. (1917)\r\nand Alpatov (1929), the life span of Drosophila decreases\r\nwith the increasing temperature, whereas according to\r\nMaynard Smith (1961) rate of ageing is roughly independent\r\nof the temperature, at least from 15°C to 30°C. The life\r\nspan as well as the growth of fat cells remains almost\r\nunaffected in Dysdercus similis by rearing them at a lower\r\ntemperature (20°C) as found in the present study. In females\r\nthe first egg laying is slightly accelerated but the second\r\negg laying remains unaffected by elevated temperature.\r\nHypertrophid fat cells with accumulation of metabolites in\r\nthem are signs of inactivity of these cells (Banerjee, 1977,\r\n1983). It is speculated that accumulation in and inactivity\r\nof the fat cells may cause an early onset of senescence in\r\nDysdercus similis.','Sadhna Tamot (2011). Effect of Ambient Temperature on the Growth of Fat Cells in Ageing Dysdercus similis Freeman (Pyrrhocoridae Hetroptera). Biological Forum An International Journal, 3(2): 52-54. '),(4745,'125','A Prognosticated Analysis of the Development of Mechanisation in Potato Cultivation: Indian Scenario','Joe Joe L. Bovas*, R. Udhayakumar, P. Shaji James, Arjunan Muthiah, Dipak S. Khatawkar and Temesgen Belay Telda','13 A Prognosticated Analysis of the Development of Mechanisation in Potato Cultivation Indian Scenario Joe Joe Lilly Bovas.pdf','',1,'Potato is the third important crop of the world next to rice and wheat, plays a prominent role in ensuring food security in developing countries. The extent and trend of mechanization for various field operations during potato cultivation were studied to analyse the available options and evolving a strategy for mechanizing potato cultivation. Though the overall mechanization status of the country was low, mechanization in potato cultivation was found to be at a higher level in India. Among the different field operations, advanced machines for earthing-up and plant protection operations were still lacking. It was inferred that more attention has to be given in developing combination implements which can combine different operations so as to minimize the operational expenses. Semi-automatic machines at affordable cost are expected to rule the potato fields in India for the near future.','Potato Mechanization, Combined Implements, Multifunctional Implements, Multipurpose Frame, Active Implements, Passive Implements','Studying the cultural practices, trend of mechanisation and the future needs of potato cultivation in India, a conceptual MFI for total mechanisation of potato cultivation is envisaged. The MFI is expected to be capable of performing tillage, planting, fertiliser application, plant protection as well as nutrient spray, earthing-up and harvesting. The proposed MFI can significantly reduce the potato production cost and help the farmer greatly in sustaining potato cultivation in India.','INTRODUCTION\r\nThe global population is expected to reach 10.4 billion by 2050 (Debrezion et al., 2020; Tedla et al., 2019), creating food shortages for nearly 820 million people (Tamburino et al., 2020). The ongoing urban expansion and agricultural labour migration to urban areas for better jobs (Donoso, 2016) will further worsen problem. Potato (Solanum tuberosum L.), is positioned as the third important crop next to rice and wheat (Ahmed et al., 2020), commercially cultivated in 149 countries, consumed by more than one billion people globally (Birch et al., 2012), highlights its importance as both food security and income generation crop. In addition, it is a reservoir of essential proteins and amino acids, making it an important nutrient rich food crop (Mushinskiy et al., 2021).\r\nChina and India leads potato production globally, but far behind USA and UK in terms of productivity (Lakhiar et al., 2018). The major difference of Indian agricultural sector with that of USA and UK is the status of mechanisation. Mechanisation helps in reducing operational cost, saves time and energy (Maslov et al., 2020), leading to increased production and productivity (Jat et al., 2020). However the future and sustainability of agriculture sector depends a lot on the extend of investments done in mechanisation (Swetha et al., 2016). In the case of potato cultivation, an in-depth analysis based on past experiences will be helpful to orient the researchers in a proper direction. Hence such a study is highly relevant to examine the present trend of mechanisation of potato cultivation in India with a view to present a road map to potato mechanisation.\r\nINDIAN TRENDS IN FARM POWER DEVELOPMENT AND AGRICULTURAL MECHANISATION\r\nAgricultural mechanisation was considered as an important ingredient to usher in a second green revolution in India(James and Ahmed 1994). Even though the role of machinery in maximising agricultural production is widely accepted all over the world (James and Pillay 1998), there existed much variation in the pace of mechanisation between different regions. Observing the agricultural mechanisation scenario in India, the period 1966-2000 witnessed the demand for animal drawn implements such as ploughs, cultivators, puddlers, sowing equipment, cane crushers along with plant protection equipment’s such as sprayers and dusters. This period was dominated by small scale manufactures. By 2005 there was a tractor for every 50 ha and the farm power availability was estimated to be 1.231 kWha-1. The potential manufacturing establishments were on the development stage (Kulkarni, 2005) and mechanisation packages based on crop and region were being developed. Machines/implements for different farm operations were available, but the investment capacity of the farmers was a major constraint. Mechanisation was increasing at a faster rate in the states like Punjab, Haryana and Uttar Pradesh, followed by Gujarat, Maharashtra, Rajasthan and certain areas of Tamil Nadu and Andhra Pradesh at a moderate pace. However, the topographic and socio-economic constraints in many areas of India like the north-eastern states, created bottlenecks in the advancement of agricultural mechanisation. \r\nThough the production and use of agricultural machines increased, farmers faced problems related to after sales service, shortage of trained professionals and ineffective feed-back system (Mehta, 2013). By 2012-13 there was 33 tractors/1000 ha (dominated by 23-30 kW tractors), a compound annual growth rate of 20% and 28% on rotovator and combine harvester sales (Mehta et al., 2014). The tractor manufactures grew from 13 in 2005 (Kulkarni, 2005) to 23 in 2015, with an addition of 261 crop production machinery and 12 power tiller manufacturers (Mehta et al., 2015). \r\nDuring the period 2010-2012 the use of higher hp tractors were increasing, 40-50 hp range increased from 24-28%, 50 hp and above increased from 14-17%, while 31-40 hp decreased from 46-42% and 21-30 hp range from 15-12%. Further by 2017 the farm power availability was increased to 2.025 kWha-1 as a result of implementing the Sub-Mission on Agricultural Mechanization (SMAM) (Anonymous, 2018) and is expected to reach 3.74 kWha-1 by 2032–33 (Tiwari et al., 2019a). Presently, the overall farm mechanisation in the country is about 40-45%, which is comparatively lower than China (48%), Brazil (75%) and 95% in USA (Tiwari et al., 2019b). \r\nSTATUS OF MECHANISATION IN POTATO CULTIVATION IN INDIA\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\nPotato when cultivated in traditional way requires huge quantities of manual labour, scarcity and high cost of labour led to the increased use of tractor mounted implements for land preparation, planting, fertiliser application, earthing-up, spraying, weeding and harvesting among large scale producers (Koga et al., 2013). Presently, on an average 90-95% of seed-bed preparation, 80-90% of planting, 80-90% of plant protection and weed control and 70-80% of harvesting are mechanised in potato cultivation (Tiwari et al., 2019b). \r\nWide range of machines/implements are available for the plains, while there are lesser choices for hilly terrain (Mehta et al., 2018). The possible reason for this is that more than 85% of the potato farms are concentrated in the plains (Chandel et al., 2015). The cost of the available machines/implements are also posing a barrier towards mechanisation (Nare and Singh, 2019). Among the tractors used in potato cultivation, 60 hp is the maximum power, while 40-50 hp is more common (Chandel et al., 2015). Thus there is a necessary to develop smaller size and low-cost implements for improving and sustaining potato cultivation (Salimzyanov et al., 2020). \r\nA. Mechanising various field operations for potato cultivation\r\n(i) Tillage for potato crop. In potato cultivation, tillage is the highest energy consuming and costly operation (Özgöz et al., 2017). In addition to land preparation for planting, earthing-up at different plant growth stages is essential (Tiessen et al., 2007). Rigorous loosening of top soil to a depth of 15-25 cm is important is essential to get better yield (Barakat et al., 2020; Mancinelli et al., 2020). Thus, active tillage implements like rotavators are being widely used in recent years. The potato growing farmers of Brazil preferred rotavator as it gave fine tilth and they found it to be better for crop development. A similar trend were also seen among potato growing farmers of India (Nare and Singh, 2019). In fact 14 cm tillage depth using rotavator was found to be sufficient for potato crop (Dai et al., 2020). \r\n(ii) Potato planting. Potato is planted either on ridges, flat-bed or flat-bed followed by ridging(Anonymous, n.d.). It is essential to have 10-15 cm thick soil cover on top of the tuber seeds after planting (Tantowijoyo and Fliert, 2006). The tuber to tuber spacing should be in the range 22-30 cm(Anonymous, 2016) and row to row spacing between 60-90 cm (Burke, 2017). Tubers planted on ridges should have a minimum width of 25-30 cm and height 30-35 cm for better crop growth (Anonymous, 2016). Potato planters drop the tubers at prescribed spacing and cover them with soil forming a small bund or a ridge. \r\nA variety of potato planters suiting various scales of operation have been developed and are available. Consideration the potato cultivating conditions in India, (Horo and Hanke, 2019) suggested that Semi- Automatic Potato Planter (SAPP) are more suitable. It was found that recent efforts were more on developing Automatic Potato Planter (APP) for potato and missing was identified as a major problem in APP (Wang et al., 2020). To reduce the problem of missing in APP, reseeding system using a laser sensor was tried by (Shufeng et al., 2020). It was found that the attachment could increase the planter efficiency from 91.35-98.5%. To reduce the complexity, (Wang et al., 2020) developed a re-seeding system using one-way clutch principle and attained 99.9% efficiency when tested on a one-row potato planter. \r\n(iii) Fertiliser application. Potato crop on an average consumes 3.8 kg N, 0.6 kg P and 4.4 kg K is consumed for every ton of potato produced (Alva et al., 2011). Traditionally granular fertilizers are applied manually during planting and at different crop develop stages (Mehta et al., 2018). In medium and large scale farms of India, tractor mounted planters with fertilizer drilling facility is used (Pronk et al., 2015). Soluble fertilizers are either supplied along with irrigation or applied on foliage using commercially available sprayers (Mehta et al., 2018). \r\nStudies showed that foliar spraying are more effective and required lesser than soil application using granular fertilizers (Ali and Jasim, 2020). \r\nThe first implement that combined fertiliser application with potato planting was an animal drawn planter cum fertiliser applicator in 1879 (Cumings and Houghland, 1939). A two-row tractor mounted planter fitted with fertiliser applicator gave 2.47 tonnes ha-1 extra yield than conventional broadcasting method (Cooke et al., 1954). In India, power tiller operated potato planter cum fertiliser applicator was developed by (Gupta et al., 1994). It had an EFC of 0.04 ha h-1 with 60% FE, reduce 45% operation cost and 90% labour requirement. It is evident from the studies sited that spraying of nutrients in combination with planting is more economical and beneficial as there is lesser losses, better absorption and requires lesser quantity which is also more environment friendly. In addition, the spraying unit can be used for applying plant protection chemicals too, making the implement more versatile meeting the requirements of multifunctional implement (MFI). \r\n(iv) Application of plant protection chemicals. Potato crop is prone to pest and disease attack, thus spraying plant protection chemicals cannot be avoided (Kapsa, 2008). In fact, spraying during planting itself was found to be essential in controlling Pest and diseases (Melnichuk et al., 2019). Among the diseases, blight is a highly problematic, it’s recommended to adopt protective fungicides spraying to delay and control the appearance of blight(Sharma et al., 2019). In addition to the diseases, potato crop has to be protected from a wide verity of insects that affect directly by damaging the tubers and indirectly by damaging the above ground vegetative mass (Vincent et al., 2013). \r\nConventionally boom sprayers with hollow-cone nozzles is being widely used. They are associated with considerable losses to the ground and lesser penetration into dense canopy (Ade and Rondelli, 2007). Air assisted ones were reported to be better in reducing drift, increase penetration and there by provide better deposition uniformity (Scudeler and Raetano, 2006). Lever-operated knapsack sprayer (Sanabria et al., 2020) and battery operated knapsack sprayer (Mhatre et al., 2021) are becoming common among the potato cultivators of the hilly regions and small scale potato farmers in the plains. Taking into consideration the spraying frequency in potato crop, losses to ground is a matter of both economic and environmental concern (Lesmes-Fabian et al., 2012).\r\n(a) Electrostatic sprayers. The environmental problems created by agro-chemical spraying is becoming a matter of serious concern in India. Spraying with electrically charged droplets reduces both the quantity needed and wastage to ground (Lane and Law, 1982). In addition to this, deposition rates are generally 1.5 to 2.4 times (Lane and Law, 1982) and have even reached up to 4.9 times (Gupta et al., 1992) more than that of uncharged spray. Providing air assistance to charged droplets further increases the coverage and deposition (Sumner et al., 2000). Analysing the spectral distribution, Electrostatic Sprayer (ES) produced smaller droplet size and increased evenness of distribution and deposition (He et al., 2016).\r\nAn air-assisted ES having better efficiency while spraying in agricultural fields was developed by(Patel et al., 2016a). Further, Patel et al. (2016b) developed an external air assistive device for electrostatic spraying nozzles for increasing the deposition rate during high wind conditions. Considering the Indian agricultural scenario, (Kumar et al., 2017) developed an air-assisted electrostatic nozzle for small scale farmers capable of producing a charge-to-mass ratio of 10 m Ckg-1. A hand-held air-assisted ES was developed by (Patel et al., 2019) for the small and medium scale formers of India. The sprayer was highly efficient in its class, light in weight, capable of producing 1.5 kV, discharge 110 ml-min-1 with 2.8 kgcm-2 air pressures and induced 8 mCkg-1 charge onto the droplets. \r\nConsidering the wide use of Power knapsack sprayers in Indian farms, a cost effective electrostatic induction spray charge (EISC) unit was developed by (Khatawkar et al., 2020a) as an attachment to power knapsack mist-blower. It had better performance compared to ESSMBP90 in terms of Charge to Mass Ratio within the spray throw of 100 to250 cm. As further improvement (Khatawkar et al., 2020) developed a highly cost effective knapsack air-assisted embedded ES. Considering the effectiveness and cost barrier breaking developments in electrostatic sprayer technology, adding it to any MFI for potato cultivation can provide greater benefits as potato crop requires soil, seed tuber and canopy spraying. \r\n(v) Potato Harvesting. Harvesting operation is crucial and expensive in potato cultivation as the tubers are underground, requiring precise judgement (Cunha et al., 2011). Manual harvesting is time consuming and requires about 600-700 man-hha-1 (Kumar and Tripathi, 2017) and results in 20-30% losses due to human judgment error (Sharma et al., 2019). Mechanical harvesting is commonly performed using either animal drawn or tractor operated implements. Tractor operated implement types include blade type diggers (BTD), rotary type diggers, digger cum elevator (DCE) and oscillating/vibratory diggers (Kumar and Tripathi, 2017). Potato combine is another option, though expensive they can cover about 3-4 ha per day and requires very little labour (Mehta et al., 2018). \r\nPotato harvesters fitting various scales of operations are commercially available and are being widely used in India. Based on operating cost, field capacity and losses, two-row BTD is a better choice, while DCE was more effective in exposing the harvested tubers (Singh and Singh, 1979). The cost of the DCE was 5.8 times more than two-row BTD, but its operating cost is 58.6% lesser (Kumar and Tripathi, 2017). The operating cost and losses of potato combines are respectively 49.03% and 3.97% less than tractor mounted BTD, but requires large cultivated area and very high initial investment (Cunha et al., 2011). This forms a major limiting factor for its wider adoption among the Indian farmers. \r\nInjuries to tubers during mechanical harvesting affects the quality of the harvest (Siberev et al., 2019). On an average its estimated that damages during mechanical harvesting is about 10-16% (Kumar and Tripathi, 2017). Tubers get injured as the result of abrasive interaction with soil clods and the parts of the harvester (Bentini et al., 2006). It was found that optimum moisture content (15%) at the time of harvest (Arfa, 2007) and tuber collation force less than 250 N will not result in tuber damage (Sang et al., 2012). The potato DCE injures about 2-2.5% of the tubers, which was 2.7% less than digging using plough, 2.5-4.5% less than manual harvesting (Kumar and Tripathi, 2017) and 1.5-2% less than rotary potato digger (Azizi et al., 2014).\r\nCost, time required for harvesting, quantity harvested and damage caused are the main factors that Indian farmers consider. Potato DCE is the most suitable specialized implement for harvesting in India. While incorporating the harvesting operation into MFI, setting the DCE unit can be complex and will make the MFI costly. A BTD with a vibrating steel bar grid can possibly give similar performance as DCE with the additional benefits of easy fabrication. Such an implement is likely to be much simpler and low cost, making the MFI affordable to Indian farmers. \r\nNEED FOR IMPROVED COMBINATION MACHINES \r\nPotato being a seasonal crop and subjected to high price fluctuations, reducing the cost of production is very important for the producer. To sustain the potato cultivation, machines/implements should be developed taking into consideration the actual problems. MFI capable of combining possible operations in one pass is such a concept. \r\nIn potato cultivation, tillage, planting, fertiliser application and soil chemical spray can be completed in one pass (P1). As the crop grows, weeding, earthing-up and foliage spray can be done in another pass (P2). P2 may has to be performed two or three times during the crop period. Need based plant protection spraying (P3) and harvesting (P4) stand as separate operations. Thus, a single implement having provisions of performing P1, P2, P3 and P4 is the conceptual MFI envisaged to sustain potato cultivation. Technically superior components should be selected for the MFI such that their performance is effective and reliable for various operations.\r\nThus, taking into consideration the Indian potato cultivation scenario, an MFI powered by 37-45 kW tractor combining a rotavator, a semi-automatic planting attachment, a ridger and an ES spraying unit seems appropriate. There should be facility to replace the rotavator with a digger so as to perform all the sequential operations P1, P2, P3 and P4. This MFI will serve as a single combi-machine solution for mechanised potato farming and likely to be accepted by the farmers of India as it can handle all major field operations.\r\n','Joe Joe L. Bovas, R. Udhayakumar, P. Shaji James, Arjunan Muthiah, Dipak S. Khatawkar and Temesgen Belay Telda (2022). A Prognosticated Analysis of the Development of Mechanisation in Potato Cultivation: Indian Scenario. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 14(2): 69-74.'),(4746,'126','Electrochemical Treatment of Bleach Effluent of Pulp and Paper Mill\r\nWaste','Ravinder Kumar and Ravi Kant Pareek','11 PAREKH.pdf','',1,'Treatment of paper effluent by electrochemical method of waste water of pulp and paper was\r\nstudied. The objective of this study is to bring the chemistry and physical processes involved into perspective\r\nand to focus attention on those areas critically needing research. Electrochemical Treatment is a method of\r\ntreating polluted water whereby sacrificial anodes corrode to release active coagulant precursors (usually\r\naluminum or stainless steel cations) into solution. Accompanying electrolytic reactions evolve gas (usually as\r\nhydrogen bubbles) at the cathode. Electrochemical Treatment has a long history as a water treatment technology\r\nhaving been employed to remove a wide range of pollutants. Batch and continuous modes of treatment were\r\nstudied. The batch mode aims to optimize coagulant concentration, pH and current density at fixed treatment\r\nduration. The current density is the most significant factor in the suspended solids elimination followed in\r\ndecreasing order of importance by coagulant concentration and pH. Physicochemical characterization of the\r\neffluent was done before and after the treatment in batch and continuous mode to improve the efficiency of\r\nthis process. This characterization included pH, Turbidity, conductivity, COD, suspended solids.','Electrochemical treatment, COD, Pulp, Suspended solids.','The electro-coagulation and flocculation process was\r\nused to treat the wastewater from a bleach effluent from an\r\nintegrated pulp and paper mill. Treatment was optimized for\r\nthe operational variables such as electrode type, influent\r\npH, and electrolyte dose and treatment time. Treatment\r\nefficiencies were assessed on the basis removal of turbidity,\r\nchemical oxygen demand (COD) and total solids from the\r\neffluents.\r\nIn case of bleach effluent, maximum removal efficiencies\r\nwere found with Aluminum electrodes. Best results were\r\nobtained with aluminum electrodes at the voltage of 5V\r\nand at the pH of 2, for the electrolysis time of 15 minutes.\r\nTurbidity and COD of the first extraction stage effluent\r\nwere removed by 76% and 85% respectively.\r\nIn respect to current density, there was an increase in\r\nCOD removal by Al electrode with increase current density\r\ncompared with the SS electrode. As expected, it appears\r\nthat for a given time, the removal efficiency increased\r\nsignificantly with increased current density. This is\r\nattributed to the fact that at high current, the amount of\r\naluminum oxidized increased, resulting in a greater amount\r\nof precipitation. The percentage of COD removal for the Al\r\nelectrode was higher than that for the SS electrode. In case\r\nof Turbidity it ups to approximately 108 JTU was for the Al\r\nand 224 JTU was for SS electrodes.\r\nAluminum electrodes are preferred for this application.\r\nUnder optimal value of process parameter (initial pH 2, t =\r\n15 min and voltage = 5), COD removal reached at 85% .In\r\naddition Turbidity removal was obtained 76% and visually\r\nvery clear following electrochemical treatment. Maximum\r\ncurrent density was 374 A/m2 at Al electrode.\r\nThe use of aluminum electrode will be a better choice,\r\nas compared to stainless steel or iron electrodes due to its\r\nrole as scarified electrodes releasing of aluminum ions as\r\ncoagulant. Amount of coagulants (e.g., Al2SO4.18H2O) may\r\nincrease the conductivity of the solution and further\r\nenhance the efficiency of using electric energy to assist\r\nreleasing aluminum ions as coagulating reagents. However,\r\ntoo much coagulant in the tested solution may lead to\r\nboiling of water without controlling power supply or\r\ntreatment time.\r\nThe time dependence of COD removal by\r\nelectrochemical process at fix pH is shown in Tables 6. It\r\ncan be seen from the Tables that at 373.3 A/m2 current\r\ndensities and 19.99 KWh/m3 energy consumption, the COD\r\nremoval was 85% at fix pH value 2 and retention time 15\r\nmin.\r\nThe result of this study was showed (Table 3) that\r\nelectrode mass consumption at electrical potential 5 V was\r\n0.941gm at Alum and 0.910 gm at SS. It means that the\r\nelectrode mass consumption was max. at aluminum electrode.\r\nIt mean aluminum was better electrode than SS.\r\nPower consumed was found to be high in cases of\r\nbleach effluent it was 20kWh/m3.\r\nIn respect to power consumption, it was concluded\r\nthat this technology is costly for wastewater treatment but\r\nfor some of the difficult wastewaters for which the\r\nalternative technologies are not feasible, this technology\r\nmay proves to be appropriate for treatment.\r\nIt is also concluded that if this technology is used in\r\nlarge scale, then it may be cheaper or less costly in\r\ncomparison to the lab scale observations.','The production of paper started two thousand years\r\nago in China and was considered as a secret activity until\r\nXII century when it was developed.\r\nNowadays, paper is produced from wood and the\r\nvariation of the proportion of its components makes\r\npossible the obtaining of a large variety of paper quality.\r\nThe production of paper gets through several stages like\r\nslashing, boiling in a solution of sodium hydroxide, dilution\r\nand washing. Such stages operate with a large quantity of\r\nwater and hence quantities of wastewater are generally\r\nimportant.\r\nThis waste water generally large quantities of\r\nsuspended solids; it also contains considerable amount of\r\nCOD and BOD. Conventional physicochemical treatment of\r\npaper effluent consists of classic pretreatment such as\r\ncoagulation /flocculation, sedimentation and sludge handling\r\netc. and they have noted that for wastewaters which contain\r\ncolloidal particles, fine bubbles produced by electrochemical\r\nTreatment can very effectively float them. Janssen and\r\nKoene have shown that electrochemical techniques are one\r\nof the competitive and interesting technologies in this field.\r\nElectrochemical techniques are highly versatile. Quantity\r\nof water due to a passage of electric current between an\r\nanode and a cathode is a process which produces fine\r\noxygen and hydrogen bubbles as shown in the following\r\nreactions:\r\nAnodic oxidation:\r\n2 H2O  O2 + 4 H+ + 4e ... (1)\r\nCathodic reduction:\r\n4H2O + 4e!  2H2 + 4OH ... (2)\r\nHis process is complex because of its dependence on\r\nseveral factors. Indeed, the current density influences\r\ndirectly the number and size of bubbles. The pH is a\r\nparameter which influences the mechanism of\r\nelectrochemical owing to the fact that the hydrogen bubbles\r\nare the smallest with neutral pH and\r\nFor the oxygen bubbles their sizes increase with pH.\r\nOther than pH and current density there are several other\r\nparameters which affect this process such as the state, the\r\narrangement of the electrodes, the nature of water to be\r\ntreated and processing duration.\r\nMATERIALS AND METHODS\r\nFirst the bleach effluent of an integrated pulp and paper\r\nmill was studied. Characteristics of these effluents are\r\nshown in table. A laboratory scale electro-chemical treatment\r\nunit with flexibility to use either stainless steel or aluminum\r\nelectrodes was used in the study. Spacing between the\r\nelectrodes was 12 mm and effective surface area of the\r\nelectrodes was 300 cm2. Electrochemical treatment of the\r\nwastewater was carried at different pH values for different\r\ndurations of electrolysis.\r\nFor the pH adjustment of the wastewater sulfuric acid\r\nwas used. All the experiments were conducted on 700 ml\r\nof wastewater at 5 volts voltage using both the electrodes\r\n(stainless steel and aluminum). During the treatment, current\r\nmeasurements were made. Wastewater after the electro-\r\nBiological Forum An International Journal, 3(2): 55-61(2011) ISSN No. (Print) : 0975-1130\r\nISSN No. (Online) : 2249-3239\r\n56 Kumar and Pareek\r\nchemical treatment was allowed to settle for 2 hours and in\r\nthe supernatant COD and turbidity was measured for\r\nassessing the treatment efficiency.\r\nA. Material\r\n(i) Effluent characteristics\r\nThese effluents are taken in a way to respect the\r\nstandards of sampling and are stored in the cold storage\r\nduring experiment days. A physicochemical characterization\r\nof the effluents is carried out before the treatment.We note that these effluents present a high rate of\r\nCOD and a considerable rate of suspended Solids which\r\nmakes effective an eventual treatment by electrochemical.\r\n(ii) Experimental Setup\r\nA laboratory scale unit was used to conduct the\r\nexperiments in the present study. The unit includes two\r\ncomponents: The Reactor and the Power system. The\r\nreactor is made up of acrylic material and its capacity is of\r\n700 ml. it includes two electrodes (a cathodes and an anode).\r\nTwo types of electrodes Aluminum and Stainless Steel, each\r\nof 50mm width, 200 mm length and 2 mm thickness were\r\nused in the present study. In any single experiment, both\r\nthe electrodes used were of same metal. A schematic diagram\r\nof the experimental set-up is shown in Fig. 1. Spacing\r\nbetween the two electrodes was 12 mm. The power system\r\nwas used to supply Direct Current (DC) at desired voltage\r\nto the electrodes.\r\nThe system converted the input Alternating Current\r\n(AC) into Direct Current (DC) of desired voltage. Provisions\r\nwere made in the power system to regulate voltage of the\r\noutput and to display it on a handy multimeter. An ampere\r\nof 0-10A range was fitted in the power system to display\r\nthe amperage of the power supplied.\r\nFi.g 2. Electro-chemical reactor.\r\nA final experiment was conducted on the wastewater\r\nwith the superior of the two types of electrodes, and the\r\ntreated effluent obtained was characterized for different\r\nother parameters as well for assessing the treatment\r\nefficiency against the untreated waste water.\r\nANALYSIS AND RESULTS\r\nA. Effect of initial pH\r\nIt has been established that the in?uent pH is an\r\nimportant operating factor influencing the performance of\r\nelectrochemical process. To examine its effect on the\r\ntreatment of black liquor, the pH was varied in the range\r\n2-8 using low volume of sulphuric acid 0.01N.\r\nFig. 3 illustrates the removal efficiencies of COD and a\r\nchange in the pH of the black liquor after electrochemical\r\nTreatment, as a function of the influent pH. In addition, it\r\nwas demonstrated that high pH values will increase Al\r\n(OH)3 solubility and lead to the formation of soluble\r\nAl(OH)4, which is useless for water treatment.When initial pH was adjusted in the range 2-7, all\r\naluminum cat ions produced at the anode formed polymeric\r\nspecie Al13O4 (OH)24\r\n7+ and precipitated Al(OH)3 leading to\r\na more effective treatment and high removal capacities of\r\nCOD (85%) and Turbidity (137 JTU). The highest removal\r\nefficiencies have been obtained in acidic medium, at pH\r\nvalues in the range 2-7. However, this was contested by\r\nChen et al. [14] who explained this increase by the release\r\nof CO2 from wastewater owing to H2 bubble disturbance.\r\nIndeed, at low pH, CO2 is over saturated in wastewater and\r\ncan release during H2 evolution, causing a pH increase.\r\nB. The effect of Current Density\r\nIt is well known that current determines not only the\r\ncoagulant dosage rate but also the bubble production rate\r\nand the size and growth of flocs Fig. 1. Schematic diagram of a typical electrochemical treatment. which can indkuence the\r\nKumar and Pareek 57\r\ntreatment efficiency of the electrochemical. Therefore, the\r\neffect of current intensity on the pollutant removal was\r\ninvestigated (Adhoum and Monser, 2004). The Turbidity\r\nand COD removals from the paper mill effluent were\r\nmeasured for 15 min at different pH value. The effect of\r\nthe current intensity on the treatment efficiency of the\r\nelectrochemical process has been investigated for different\r\nwastewaters (Lin and Peng, 1994). Dur ing the\r\nelectrochemical experiments, the small amounts of sludge\r\nwere scraped off from the top and the bottom of the\r\nelectrolytic cell, and were evidence of the sedimentation\r\nand flotation action.Since the total surface area of the electrodes was about\r\n300 cm2, the applied current was readily converted to the\r\ncurrent density. Therefore, the removal Turbidity and COD\r\nwere graphed against current density in Figs. 5-6. Fig. 5\r\ndepicts the COD removal efficiency as a function of current\r\ndensity. The percentage of COD removal ups to\r\napproximately 374 A/cm2was for the Al and 362 A/cm2 was\r\nfor SS electrodes. Fig. 6 depicts the Turbidity removal\r\nefficiency as a function of current density. The Turbidity\r\nremoval ups to approximately 108 JTU was for the Al and\r\n224 JTU was for SS electrodes.\r\nHowever, there was an increase in COD removal by\r\nthe Al electrode with increasing current density compared\r\nwith the SS electrode. As expected, it appears that for a\r\ngiven time, the removal efficiency increased signi?cantly\r\nwith increased current density. This is attributed to the\r\nfact that at high current, the amount of aluminum oxidized\r\nincreased, resulting in a greater amount of precipitation.\r\nThe percentage of COD removal for the Al electrode was\r\nhigher than that for the SS electrode.\r\nThe Al electrode revealed a tendency for steadiness\r\nafter 374 A/cm2. However, in the case of the SS electrode, a\r\nfast removal up to 362 A/cm2 and then gradually slowing\r\nremoval was observed. At higher current densities, the\r\nsupply of aluminum ions was generated rapidly compared\r\nto the coagulation process, resulting in a decrease in\r\nremoval efficiency calculated on an equivalent aluminum\r\nbasis. In addition, the faster removal of aluminum hydroxide\r\nfrom solution by flotation leads to a reduction in the\r\nprobability of collision between the pollutant and coagulant.Both the electrodes showed similar behavior for COD\r\nremoval at low current densities. The results are given in\r\nFig. 11. The efficiency of COD removal (80%) was found at\r\napproximately 374 A/cm2. A very small decrease with\r\nincreasing current density was observed. When organic\r\npollutants in effluents were treated by electrochemical\r\nmethods, COD removal increased with increasing current\r\nintensity.\r\nC. Effect of Energy consumption\r\nThe results obtained are plotted in Figs. 7-8. Fig. 7\r\ndepicts the COD removal efficiency as a function of Energy\r\nConsumption. The percentage of COD removal ups to\r\napproximately 20.03 KWh/m3 was for the Al and 19.39 KWh/\r\nm3 was for SS electrodes. Fig.8 depicts the value of energy\r\nconsumption of at different pH. At 2 pH the energy\r\nconsumption was 20 KWh/m3 i.e. in acidic medium the\r\nenergy consumption was maximum.','Ravinder Kumar and Ravi Kant Pareek (2011). Electrochemical Treatment of Bleach Effluent of Pulp and Paper Mill Waste. Biological Forum An International Journal, 3(2): 55-61. ');
INSERT INTO `pdf_upload` VALUES (4747,'125','Effect of Irrigation Level and Nitrogen Fertigation on Growth Parameters and Seed Yield of Coriander (Coriandrum sativum L.) Varieties','Vikram*, T.P. Malik, Khyati Singh, Amit Kumar, Desh Raj Chaudhary and Vinod Kumar','14 Effect of Irrigation Level and Nitrogen Fertigation on Growth Parameters and Seed Yield of Coriander Coriandrum sativum L.Varieties Vikram.pdf','',1,'This study was conducted at area of Research Farm at CCS, HAU, Hisar under Department of Vegetable Science. The material comprised of three coriander varieties viz., V1- Hisar Bhumit, V2- Hisar Anand and V3- Hisar Sugandh as main plot, four levels of irrigation namely, I1-0.6, I2-0.8, I3-1.0 and I4-1.2 (IW/CPE) ratio as sub plot and 3 nitrogen levels that is N1 (40 kg ha-1), N2 (50 kg ha-1) and N3 (60 kg ha-1) as sub-sub plot replicated thrice using drip fertigation. The application of irrigation with I4 (1.2 IW/CPE) recorded significantly higher growth parameters over rest of the others levels, nevertheless statistically at par with irrigation schedule at 1.0 IW/CPE. Among nitrogen levels, maximum growth parameters and yield were recorded with nitrogen level at 70 kg ha-1 (N4) which was statistically at par with 60 kg ha-1 (N3). Coriander variety i.e. Hisar Sugandh found to be superior in growth parameters and yield when grown at irrigation level at 1.0 IW/CPE (I3) with nitrogen level at 60 kg ha-1 and can be recommended to grow in western region of Haryana.','Irrigation, Fertigation, Growth, Variety, Yield','It can be concluded that the variety Hisar Sugandh with irrigated scheduling at 1.0 IW/CPE with nitrogen level of 60 kg ha-1 can be grown to get statistically at par productivity as while irrigated scheduling at 1.2 IW/CPE with level of nitrogen at 70 kg ha-1. The growth parameters viz., taller plants, higher numbers of primary and secondary branches, lowest number of days taken to 50% flowering and maturity were recorded with irrigation schedule at 1.2 IW/CPE ratios (I4), which was statistically at par with irrigation scheduled at 1.0 IW/CPE ratio (I3). Furthermore, higher growth parameters of coriander were recorded with nitrogen level at 70 kg ha-1 (N4), which was statistically at par with 60 kg ha-1 (N3).','INTRODUCTION \r\nCoriander (Coriandrum sativum L.) is belongs to Apiaceae classification and as known or named at another time or place cilantro or Dhania, one of the first decorated with flowers annual spices secondhand by society (Luayza et al., 1996). Coriander is native of Mediterranean domain, but now, it’s cultured worldwide generally in Morocco, Russia, United States of America of Western hemisphere, Italy, India and Japan. India is recognized as “Land of Spices” and largely cultivated in many states that are Rajasthan, M.P., Gujarat, A.P., Haryana, Punjab and West Bengal under area of 704 thousand hectare accompanying the production of 900 thousand MT. In India, the average production of coriander is approximately 0.9 MT/hectare (Anonymous, 2018).\r\nIn India, coriander is mostly cultivated as rainfed crop but there is an immense potentiality to increase the production of this crop with assured irrigations. Irrigation plays a main function in the plant development, increase yield and feature of coriander. Rising water disaster and increase demand of produce more food per drop of water requires some efficient irrigation system to improve productivity of water. Many evidences of research prove that the drip irrigation is superior in term of conditions of water and raised yield in addition to other benefits over common irrigation system (Pandey et al., 2013). The reduction in production of coriander can be attributed to imbalanced fertilizer application. Proper utilization of fertilizers helps in right growth, development and higher yield (Kumar et al., 2015). Nitrogen is considered as major nutrients that influence the plant growth parameters, yield and quality of seeds and its deficiency affects the size of leaf and rate of photosynthetic (Lal et al., 2016). A sufficient amount of nitrogen is necessitate as it encourages vegetative growth which leads to higher quality leave and seed yield generation but its excessive application can decrease plant growth and development. Hence, an optimum amount of nitrogen should be applied with accurate level of watering. \r\nMATERIALS AND METHODS \r\nThis study was conducted at area of Research Farm at CCS, HAU, Hisar under department of Vegetable Science to identify the effect of irrigation and N2 (Nitrogen) fertigation on growth and seed yield of coriander (Coriandrum sativum L.) varieties in 2017-2018 and 2018-2019. The material was comprised of three coriander varieties viz., V1- Hisar Bhumit, V2- Hisar Anand and V3- Hisar Sugandh, four levels of irrigation namely, I1-0.6, I2-0.8, I3-1.0 and I4-1.2 (IW/CPE) ratio as sub plot and 3 nitrogen levels that is N1 (40 kg ha-1), N2 (50 kg ha-1) and N3 (60 kg ha-1). The experimental was designed out in split-split plot replicated three times such that the varieties were sown as the main plot, irrigation as sub-plot and nitrogen as sub-sub plot was undertaken using drip fertigation. The field was divided into plots of raised beds of size 3.0 × 1.2 m2 by making small channels between the plots.\r\nThe data were recorded (each treatment of each replication) from five randomly picked plants for plant height (cm), number of primary (basic) and secondary (subordinate) branches plant-1 at harvest and days to 50% flowering and maturity in days. The field observations were recorded during 2017-18 and 2018-19 years of experiment, and they are averaged on a per plant basis. The experimental data for various growths parameters were examined by statistically methods of analysis of variance as outlined by Panse and Sukhatme (1985). The plot (split-split) design are assigned namely main, sub and sub-sub plot under the levels of factors that is Factor V (varieties) assigned to main plots, Factor I (irrigation) to subplots within each main plot, and Factor N (nitrogen) to sub-subplots within each subplot. The addition of a third factor by splitting sub-plots of a split-plot design using the third level of randomization results in a split-split plot design.\r\nRESULTSANDDISCUSSION\r\nThe performance of 0.6, 0.8, 1.0 and 1.2 IW/CPE ratio irrigation levels and 40, 50, 60 and 70 kg ha-1 nitrogen fertigation were evaluated to study their effect on growth parameters of three coriander varieties. The results are presented in Table 1 and 2 for individual and Table 3 for interaction effect.\r\nA. Plant height (cm) \r\nAmong irrigation levels, significantly taller plants (115.0 cm) of coriander at harvest were recorded in coriander treated with irrigated level at 1.2 IW/CPE, which was statistically at par with plant height (114.2 cm) at harvest of coriander treated with irrigated level at 1.0 IW/CPE. A critical analysis on the effect nitrogen fertigation revealed that significantly taller plants (113.7 cm) of coriander were observed in coriander treatment with nitrogen at level 70 kg ha-1. Pooled analysis of data from two years also showed significantly taller plants (112.7 cm) of coriander in Hisar Bhumit over rest of the other two varieties, i.e. Hisar Anand and Hisar Sugandh.\r\nThe pronounced effect on plant height by irrigation on growth characters might be accredit the advantageous effect of higher soil moisture rank on immersion of water; nutrients uptake, cell elongation and turgidity, net-assimilation rate and translocation of assimilates to the actively growing parts of plant. Comparable results were also stated by Rao et al. (2010); Lal et al. (2013); Meena et al. (2017). The nitrogen being a important fundamental constituent of cell and helps in exciting cellular division and elongation, that developed in bettering of herbaceous development of the plants. This finding corroborated by the results reported by Patel et al. (2000); Naghera et al. (2000); Nataraja et al., (2003); Shroff (2003); Patel (2005); Pawar et al., (2007); Tuncturk et al. (2011); Patel et al. (2013). The increment in the plant height might be due to the genetic characters of different cultivars. Similar results were reported by Sharma et al. (2016); Honnappa et al. (2017).\r\nB. Numbers of Primary and Secondary branches per plant \r\nThe data relevant to numbers of primary branches per plant indicated that varieties, level of irrigation and nitrogen that significantly affected the numbers of primary branches per plant of coriander. \r\nSignificantly highest number of primary branches (9.79) per plant at harvest were recorded in coriander treated with irrigation level at 1.2 IW/CPE, which was statistically at par with irrigation level at 1.0 IW/CPE (9.78) vis-a-vis 0.8 IW/CPE (9.69) and 0.6 IW/CPE (9.60). Whereas, among nitrogen levels, significantly higher number of primary branches (9.88) per plant was recorded in coriander treated nitrogen at 70 kg ha-1, which was statistically at par (9.78) with nitrogen at 60 kg ha-1. Significantly higher number of primary branches (9.81) per plant were found in Hisar Bhumit, which were closely followed by Hisar Sugandh (9.73) and Hisar Anand (9.61). Pooled analysis of data from two years showed significantly higher number of secondary branches (33.74) per plant at harvest were recorded in coriander treated with irrigation level at 1.2 IW/CPE over all other levels of irrigation. Among nitrogen fertigation, significantly higher number of secondary branches (32.17) per plant at harvest were recorded in coriander treated with nitrogen at 70 kg ha-1 over rest of the nitrogen levels. Significantly higher numbers of secondary branches (31.99) per plant were recorded in Hisar Bhumit over other varieties, i.e. Hisar Sugandh (30.33) and Hisar Anand (29.11).\r\nThe increase in number of branches per plant might be due to availability of sufficient soil moisture for progressive plant growth maintained by drip irrigation, which leads to better development of photosynthetic area and accelerate photosynthetic rate. Similar results were also reported by Rao et al. (2010) Solanki et al. (2017); Harisha et al. (2019). This might be due to the fact that higher level of nitrogen, which may have increased interception, absorption and utilization of radiant energy which in turn increased photosynthesis and thereby number of branches per plant and finally resulting in better growth. Similar findings were also reported by Pratap et al. (2003); Patel et al. (2013); Harisha et al. (2019). The increment in the number of primary and secondary branches per plant might be due to their genetic characters of different cultivars. Similar results were also reported by Bhunia et al. (2009).\r\nC. Days to 50% flowering and days to maturity\r\nThe data clearly shows that varieties, irrigation and nitrogen levels significantly influenced the days to 50% flowering of coriander during both the years. Significantly least number of days (94.2) taken to 50% flowering were reported when coriander irrigated with irrigation level of 0.6 IW/CPE followed by 0.8 IW/CPE (102.7). Among nitrogen levels, significantly least number of days (91.1) taken to 50% flowering were reported when coriander treated with nitrogen at 40 kg ha-1 followed by nitrogen at 50 kg ha-1 (102.4). Among verities, significantly least number of days (100.3) were taken to 50% flowering in Hisar Anand over rest of the varieties. Result presented clearly indicated that significantly least number of days (121.7) taken to maturity were recorded in coriander treated irrigation level at 0.6 IW/CPE followed by 0.8 IW/CPE (126.9). The data of nitrogen fertigation, significantly least number of days (113.6) were taken to maturity in coriander treated with lowest nitrogen level i.e. 40 kg ha-1followed by 50 kg ha-1 (136.6). Lowest number of days (124.2) taken to maturity were observed in Hisar Anand of coriander in over Hisar Sugandh (127.4) and Hisar Bhumit (132.9).\r\nThe result obtained can be attributed to lower nitrogen dose that could not carry out the nutritional requirement of plant for better root and vegetative growth, which ultimately resulted in reduced growth, early accumulation of photosynthesis and ultimately early flowering and fruiting. While, optimum nitrogen dose maintained the appropriate pertaining to food surrounding in the root zone, which balanced physiological process, or proper uptake of nutrients resulted in better foliage and delayed the flowering and fruiting. Further, it helped in proper seed development by maintaining source and sinks relationship and finally resulted in early and prolonged harvesting. Almost similar results attained by Godara et al., (2013); Meena et al. (2016). Among different cultivars, the minimum number of days taken to 50% flowering and maturity in coriander was recorded in Hisar Anand over Hisar Bhumit followed by Hisar Sugandh. The variation in this aspect may be due to their genetic characters of different cultivars of coriander. Analogous results were also stated by Bhunia et al. (2009.\r\nD. Seed yield (kg ha-1)\r\nThe data related to seed yield depicted that varieties, irrigation and nitrogen levels significantly influenced the seed yield of coriander during both the years. Among irrigation levels, significantly higher seed yield (1696.2 kg ha-1) of coriander were recorded in coriander treated with irrigation level at 1.2 IW/CPE, which was statistically at par with coriander treated with irrigation level at 1.0 IW/CPE (1689.4 kg ha-1). Data pertaining to the effect of nitrogen levels, significantly higher seed yield (1758.3 kg ha-1) were recorded in coriander treated with nitrogen at 70 kgha-1, which was statistically at par with coriander treated with nitrogen at 60 kg ha-1 (1754.2 kg ha-1). Among varieties, significantly higher seed yield of coriander in Hisar Sugandh (10.84 g plant-1) over other varieties, i.e. Hisar Anand (10.42 g plant-1) and Hisar Bhumit (8.51 g plant-1).\r\nThe effect of irrigation scheduling on seed yield per hectare were increased significantly by 7.7 per cent through irrigation scheduling at 1.2 IW/CPE over 0.6 IW/CPE. Seed yield of the crop is the results of many physiological processes under which the crop is grown. The optimum moisture condition in the entire root zone of the crop reflects in better physiological activities of plant plants. Application of appropriate amount of irrigation water maintained the proper soil moisture when overcomes the moisture stress during growing period and ultimately enhanced the yield. Results of present study were in close agreement with the findings of Rao et al. (2010); Godara et al. (2013); Solanki et al. (2017); Meena et al. (2017); Harisha et al. (2019).\r\nE. Interaction effect\r\nOn examining the interaction effect of irrigation and nitrogen levels (I×N) showed in Table 3, it was revealed that significantly higher seed yield (1816.2 kg ha-1) were recorded in coriander sown at irrigation level of 1.2 IW/CPE with nitrogen applied at 70 kg ha-1 (I4N4), which was statistically at par with coriander sown at irrigation level of 1.2 IW/CPE with nitrogen applied at 60 kg ha-1 (1810.1 kg ha-1), 1.0 IW/CPE with nitrogen applied at 70 kg ha-1 (1804.0 kg ha-1) and 1.0 IW/CPE with nitrogen applied at 60 kg ha-1 (1798.9 kg ha-1), whereas, the lowest seed yield (1326.1 kg ha-1) was recorded at irrigation level of 0.6 IW/CPE with nitrogen applied at 40 kg ha-1.\r\n','Vikram, T.P. Malik, Khyati Singh, Amit Kumar, Desh Raj Chaudhary and Vinod Kumar (2022). Effect of Irrigation Level and Nitrogen Fertigation on Growth Parameters and Seed Yield of Coriander (Coriandrum sativum L.) Varieties. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 14(2): 75-79.'),(4748,'126','Association of Ants and Honeydew Producing Sucking Pests in\r\nBangalore Provenance of Sandal (Santalum album Linn.)','Gaurav Sharma and R. Sundararaj','12 DR GAURAV.pdf','',1,'Mutualism between individuals of two species is increasingly recognized as a common and\r\nimportant ecological interaction. Interactions between ants and honeydew-producing hemipteran insects are\r\nabundant and widespread in arthropod food webs, though their ecological consequences are not well understood.\r\nAnt-hemipteran interactions have potentially broad ecological effects, because the presence of honeydew-producing\r\nhemipterans dramatically alters the abundance and predatory behaviour of ants on plants. In this paper we\r\npresent an account of the ants and Hemiptera that were observed in association in Bangalore provenance of\r\nsandal. Different ants were found associated with five species of coccids viz., Cardiococcus bivalvata Green\r\n(Coccidae), Ceroplastes actiniformis Green (Coccidae), Nipaecoccus viridis (Newstead) (Pseudococcidae), Parasaissetia\r\nnigra (Nietner) (Coccidae) and Saissetia coffeae Targioni-Tozzetti (Coccidae) and three species of membracids\r\nviz., Leptocentrus longispinus Dist., Otinotus oneratus Walk. and Oxyrachis tarandus Fabr. Ants were known for\r\nprotecting hemipterans from predators and parasitoids, their association may accelerate the growth and impact\r\nof honeydew-producing hemipterans on sandal plants and these findings were discussed in this paper.','Association, ants, coccids, membracids, sandal, Bangalore.','Mutualism between individuals of two species is increasingly recognized as a common and\r\nimportant ecological interaction. Interactions between ants and honeydew-producing hemipteran insects are\r\nabundant and widespread in arthropod food webs, though their ecological consequences are not well understood.\r\nAnt-hemipteran interactions have potentially broad ecological effects, because the presence of honeydew-producing\r\nhemipterans dramatically alters the abundance and predatory behaviour of ants on plants. In this paper we\r\npresent an account of the ants and Hemiptera that were observed in association in Bangalore provenance of\r\nsandal. Different ants were found associated with five species of coccids viz., Cardiococcus bivalvata Green\r\n(Coccidae), Ceroplastes actiniformis Green (Coccidae), Nipaecoccus viridis (Newstead) (Pseudococcidae), Parasaissetia\r\nnigra (Nietner) (Coccidae) and Saissetia coffeae Targioni-Tozzetti (Coccidae) and three species of membracids\r\nviz., Leptocentrus longispinus Dist., Otinotus oneratus Walk. and Oxyrachis tarandus Fabr. Ants were known for\r\nprotecting hemipterans from predators and parasitoids, their association may accelerate the growth and impact\r\nof honeydew-producing hemipterans on sandal plants and these findings were discussed in this paper.','Beneficial interaction between individuals of two\r\nspecies, commonly referred as mutualism, is recognized as\r\na common and important ecological interaction (Stachowicz,\r\n2001). Food-for -protection mutualism between ants\r\n(Hymenoptera: Formicidae) and honeydew-producing\r\ninsects in the hemipteran is one of the most familiar\r\nexamples. These ant-hemipteran mutualisms are very\r\ncommon interactions in terrestrial communities from\r\ntemperate to tropical latitudes (Buckley, 1987; Delabie, 2001).\r\nHoneydew is a sugary excretion of carbohydrates, amino\r\nacids and water derived from plant phloem upon which\r\nmany hemipterans feed (Way, 1963). Ants are attracted to\r\nhoneydew as a predictable, renewable food resource and,\r\nconsequently, \'tend\' honeydew-producing hemipterans,\r\nprotecting them from predators and parasitoids (Way, 1963;\r\nBucklery, 1987). Ants tend honeydew-producing\r\nhemipterans on an extremely wide range of plants (Way et\r\nal., 1999; Moya-Raygoza and Nault, 2000; Renault et al.,\r\n2005). Bluthgen et al. (2000) recorded ant-hemipteran\r\nassociations on 20 out of 24 tree genera and on 41 out of\r\n66 individual trees surveyed in Amazonian rainforest canopy.\r\nThe interactions between ants and honeydew-producing\r\nhemipterans are also very common in managed (e.g.\r\nagricultural) habitats in addition to being widespread in\r\nnatural habitats from grasslands to forests (Bucklery, 1987;\r\nWay and Khoo, 1992). In this paper we are reporting the\r\nassociation of ants and honeydew producing sucking pests\r\nin Bangalore provenance of sandal (Santalum album Linn.)\r\nMATERIAL AND METHODS\r\nThe study of association ants with the honeydew\r\nsecreting hemipteran insects was conducted from April 2004\r\nto March, 2006 in Bangalore provenances of sandal which\r\nis maintained naturally without any spraying/irrigation in\r\nthe campus of Institute of Wood Science and Technology,\r\nBangalore in an area of one hectare. It is located in 12°58’N\r\n77°38’E with 1000 m altitude. Soil type is red loam and acidic\r\n(pH 6.3 to 6.5). The annual mean maximum and minimum\r\ntemperatures are 36.8°C and 12.2°C respectively with annual\r\nprecipitation of 850 mm. For assessing the association, five\r\nblocks of 17 × 17 m in the size was marked. Ten sandal\r\ntrees of 3 to 4 years old were selected at random in each\r\nblock and on each plant the association if any was noted.\r\nThe associated hemipteran insects and ants were collected\r\nand identified with the help of taxonomic experts.\r\nRESULTS AND DISCUSSION\r\nDifferent ants were found associated with five species\r\nof coccids viz., Cardiococcus bivalvata Green, Ceroplastes\r\nactiniformis Green, Nipaecoccus viridis (Newstead),\r\nParasaissetia nigra (Nietner) and Saissetia coffeae Targioni-\r\nTozzetti and three species of membracids viz., Leptocentrus\r\nlongispinus Dist., Otinotus oneratus Walk. and Oxyrachis\r\ntarandus Fabr. (Table 1).Among the coccids N. viridis was found associated\r\nwith maximum number of ant species (7 species) followed\r\nby C. bivalvata with four ant species, P. nigra and S.\r\ncoffeae each with three ant species and C. actiniformis with\r\n2 ant species. Among the membracids L. longispinus and\r\nO. tarandus each were associated with two species of ants\r\nand O. oneratus with a species of ant. Among the ant\r\ngenera the genus Camponotus was found associated with\r\nmaximum number of hemipteran insects. Ants were known\r\nfor protecting hemipterans from predators and parasitoids,\r\ntheir association may accelerate the growth and impact of\r\nhoneydew-producing hemipterans on sandal plants as\r\nreported by earlier workers (Holldobler and Wilson, 1990;\r\nKaplan and Eubanks, 2002; Renault et al., 2005). The anthemipteran\r\ninteractions will have broad ecological effects,\r\nbecause the presence of honeydew-producing hemipterans\r\ndramatically alters the abundance and predatory behaviour\r\nof ants on plants. Hence studies focusing on the ecological\r\nfactors that influence the consequences of ant-hemipteran\r\ninteractions will provide greater insight into the role of\r\npositive species interactions in food web dynamics and\r\ngreater predictability of the direct and indirect effects of\r\nherbivores and natural enemies on sandal plants. Such\r\npredictability could substantially benefit any attempt of\r\nbiological control of sandal insect pests.','Gaurav Sharma and R. Sundararaj (2011). Association of Ants and Honeydew Producing Sucking Pests in Bangalore Provenance of Sandal (Santalum album Linn.). Biological Forum An International Journal, 3(2): 62-64. '),(4749,'125','Growth, Yield and Economics of Fenugreek (Trigonella foenum-graecum L.) as Influenced by Inorganic Fertilizers and Bio-inoculant (Rhizobium, PSB and KSB)','Nazneen Husain*, Reena Nair, B.K.Verma and Bhawana Yadav','15 Growth, Yield and Economics of Fenugreek _Trigonella foenum-graecum L._ as Influenced by Inorganic Fertilizers and Bio-inoculant Rhizobium, PSB and KSB Nazneen Husain.pdf','',1,'The investigation was done out during Rabi 2019-2020 at the Vegetable Research Centre, Maharajpur, Department of Horticulture, JNKVV, Jabalpur (M.P.). Rhizobium was applied for seed treatment at 2 g/kg of seed, while PSB and KSB were used for soil application at 3 kg/ha at the time of planting in fenugreek using variety RMt-1 par treatment in the plot. The design was implemented using Randomized Block Design (RBD) using three replications. Each replication has 16 treatments. It was concluded that treatment % RDF + Rhizobium + PSB + KSB produced higher values of all growth attributes traits, yield contributing traits such as number of pods per plant, pod length, pod width, number of seeds per pod, pod weight, seed yield per plant, total yield (12.79 q ha-1) and net monetary return (Rs. 60,440 ha-1) and B:C ratio (2.35).','Fenugreek, Rhizobium, PSB, KSB, Bio-inoculant, Inorganic fertilizer','Thus, it can be concluded that the application of 100% RDF + Rhizobium + PSB + KSB increased the yield and net monetary return along with improvement in soil health also concept of efficient use of bio-fertilizers complemented by associated inorganic nutrients has played a crucial role in growing and maintaining the production of fenugreek. ','INTRODUCTION\r\nIndia is the world\'s largest grower, buyer and exporter of seed spices. Fenugreek (Trigonella foenum-graecum L.) widely referred to as methi is a multipurpose crop that is grown in northern India during in the cold season. It is an annual herb belongs to the Fabaceae family and sub-family Papilliaceae. It is one of the important major seed spice in the country. It was called, Trigonella, from the Latin language which means \"little triangle\" because of its triangular yellowish-white flowers. From the early days, the Greeks used it as a remedy, seasoning and cattle feed, and so it was still known as the Greek hay. Fenugreek is considered to have originated in South-Eastern Europe and West Asia. \r\nRajasthan, Gujarat, Madhya Pradesh, Haryana, Maharashtra, Uttar Pradesh, Punjab, Bihar, Tamil Nadu, and Andhra Pradesh are the leading fenugreek growing states. The total area and output of fenugreek is 219720 hectares and 311280 tons in 2017-2018, respectively (Spice Board, 2019). Rajasthan is the leading state in fenugreek production followed by Madhya Pradesh, Gujarat and Haryana. In Madhya Pradesh it is grown in an area of 53440 hectare with 104220 tonnes production (Spice Board, 2019). Nitrogen is crucial in the synthesis of chlorophyll and it being an essential constituent of compounds like amino acids, nucleic acids, nucleotides, enzymes, coenzymes, vitamins and alkaloids contributes to the growth of plant. The general role of phosphorus on plant metabolism is known to enhance the symbiotic nitrogen fixation as well as, it plays an important role in energy transfer process in the plant body. Potassium is the third major essential plant nutrient and plays an essential role for enzyme activation, protein synthesis and photosynthesis and quality of produce. However, owing to the lack of fertilizer guidelines for various agro-climatic conditions, farmers typically apply either over or under fertilizer in fenugreek, thereby impacting crop production and profit margins for farmers. Similarly there is need to evaluate the impact of different bio-fertilizers. Shekhawat et al. (2012) highlighted the requirement for incorporation of bio-fertilizers in the fertilizer programme to meet about one third of plant nutrient needs. Integrated use of synthetic fertilizers and bio-fertilizers in fenugreek could be much more beneficial than synthetic fertilizers alone.\r\nIn India, over the last three decades, intensive cultivation involving exhaustively high yielding varieties has led to a significant depletion of nutrients from the soil. Furthermore, imbalanced use of chemical fertilizers by farmers has deteriorated soil health and declined soil organic carbon content. The uses of various combinations of chemicals in agriculture shown much irreversible impact on the environment pollution, human health and soil health. There is also a need to seek alternative sources of nutrients that could be inexpensive and environmentally friendly, so that farmers can minimize the investment made in fertilisers while preserving good soil environmental conditions contributing to sustainable organic farming. In recent years uses of microbial inoculants as source of bio-fertilizers have become a hope for most of the countries as far as economical and environmental points of view are concerned.\r\nBio-fertilizers are environment-friendly, less costly and do not require non renewable source of their production, therefore lead to sustainable crop production. In addition, they produce hormones, vitamins and other growth factors essential for plant growth. Fenugreek, which is a legume crop, responds to inoculation with Rhizobium meliloti in order to satisfy the partial nitrogen requirement. Rhizobium inoculation of fenugreek has been reported to increase plant and seed biomass. A number of experiments have shown that combined infection with rhizobia and rhizosphere bacteria increases nodulation and development in a wide range of legumes. Indian soil is low to average in available phosphorus. In recent years, several strains of phosphate solubilising bacteria (PSB) and fungi have been isolated which have shown to possess the ability to solubilize sparingly soluble phosphate, growth promotion and uptake of P by plants (Whitelaw, 2000). In India, the cost of potassium fertilizers is very high because there is no reserve of K-bearing minerals for manufacturing of conventional K fertilizers and the whole consumption is imported, costing huge amount of foreign exchange. Frateuria aurantia, a K-solubilizing bacterium, is capable of mobilizing a mixture of mica potassium into a functional shape for plants that have been reasonably added to crops in association with other bio-fertilizers without any antagonistic effects. In this context, it is important to see the microbial solubilization of K-bearing minerals in soils and their ability as K-bearing fertilizers in sustainable crop production and in the conservation of K-bearing in soil. Therefore, the present study was undertaken to evaluate the effect of nitrogen, phosphorous, potassium and bio-fertilizers on growth, yield and economics of fenugreek.\r\nMATERIAL AND METHODS \r\nThe experiment was conducted during Rabi 2019-2020 at Vegetable Research Centre, Maharajpur, Department of Horticulture, JNKVV, Jabalpur (M.P.). During the growing period one light irrigation just after sowing and five irrigations at different growth stages were applied to fenugreek. The experiment was carried out in a randomized block design of three replicates. The treatment combinations comprised of sixteen, viz., control, RDF, 75% RDF, 50% RDF, 100% RDF + Rhizobium, 100% RDF + Rhizobium+ PSB, 100% RDF + Rhizobium+ KSB, 100% RDF + Rhizobium+ PSB+KSB, 75% RDF + Rhizobium, 75% RDF + Rhizobium+ PSB, 75% RDF + Rhizobium+ KSB, 75% RDF + Rhizobium+ PSB+KSB, 50% RDF + Rhizobium, 50% RDF + Rhizobium+ PSB, 50% RDF + Rhizobium+ KSB, 50% RDF +Rhizobium+ PSB+KSB. The seed rate used for sowing was 25 kg/ha and before sowing seed were treated with 2 g Rhizobium per kg of seed. Seeds of variety RMt-1 were dibbled at a row spacing of 30 cm. The recommended doses of N, P and K @ 30:30:50 kg/ha were applied in the form of urea, single super phosphate and muriate of potash, respectively as a basal application just before sowing. Rhizobium was used for seed treatment @ 2 g/kg of seed while PSB and KSB was used for soil application @ 3 kg/ha at the time of sowing as par treatment in the plot. The prescribed practices for the cultivation of quality crops has been followed. Data based on the mean of the individual plants chosen for observation were statistically analyzed as defined by Panse and Sukhatme (1967) in order to determine the overall variability of the material under study for each character and for all populations.\r\nRESULT AND DISCUSSION \r\nResult depicted in Table 1 revealed that inorganic and bio-inoculant doses as well as there combinations significantly affect growth and phenological attributes, viz. plant height at 30, 60 DAS and at maturity, number of branches per plant at maturity, days to first flowering, 50% flowering and days to maturity, number of nodules per plant at 30 DAS, dry weight of plant at 60 DAS in fenugreek. The application of 100% RDF + Rhizobium + PSB + KSB i.e. T8 gave higher values of all these growth attributes.This might be due to the combined application of inorganic fertilizer and bio-inoculant which increased nutrients availability, photosynthetic activity, chlorophyll formation, nitrogen metabolism in plants which ultimately improving plant height resulting in vigorous plant growth. Similar beneficial combined effect of inorganic and bio-inoculant on growth parameters was also recorded by Ali et al. (2009); Raiyani et al. (2018). In addition, inoculation of plant with microbes increase dry matter content (Alagawadi and Gaur 1998). Over 80% of the bacteria isolated from rhizosphere can produce IAA (Arshad and Frankenberger 1998). This increase in dry matter production of inoculated plants may be attributed to enhanced nodulation, higher nitrogen fixation rate and general improvement of root development (Erum and Bano 2008). Rhizobium sp. inoculation caused an improvement in growth and yield (Akhtar and Siddiqui 2009).\r\nScrutiny of data in Table 2 on yield contributing traits viz., number of pods per plant, pod length, pod width, number of seeds per pod, pod weight, seed yield per plant, yield (qha-1) and test weight recorded a significant increase due to various treatments of inorganic fertilizer and bio-inoculants. Maximum number of pods per plant, pod length, pod width, number of seeds per pod, pod weight, seed yield per plant, yield (qha-1), test weight was recorded with treatment T8 (RDF + Rhizobium + PSB + KSB). The results corroborate with those of Meena et al. (2014).\r\nThe superiority of inorganic fertilizer and bio-inoculant combination could be attributed to the increase in amount of growth parameters and increased availability of nitrogen throughout the life cycle of the crop. Fenugreek is leguminous crop and it fix atmospheric nitrogen consequently the increased and balanced supply of nitrogen to plant promotes flowering and fruiting and supply of food material and its subsequent partitioning in the sink. The availability of phosphorus plays a unique role in energy conservation and transfer. The balanced supply of nitrogen throughout the life cycle of the crop reduced leaf senescence and able to furnish the increased assimilate demand of plant sinks which resulted in higher number of pods and test weight due to bold grain formation. Improvement of all the yield parameters might be due to the better availability of nutrients and their translocation resulted in significantly higher seed yield in fenugreek under Rhizobium inoculation along with PSB and KSB in soil application. \r\nThe economics of various treatments is depicted in Table 3. The B:C ratio was significantly increased by various treatments of inorganic fertilizer and bio-inoculants. Maximum B:C ratio was secured with treatment T8 (RDF + Rhizobium + PSB + KSB) (2.35) along with maximum gross return (Rs. 1,05040 ha-1) and net return (Rs. 60,440 ha-1). Singh and Verma (2002) with combined application of organic and inorganic with Rhizobium inoculation in French bean also reported similar findings. The highest benefit cost ratio was obtained with the application of 100% RDN through inorganic source along with Rhizobium, PSB and KSB. The lower quantity of bio-inoculant is required which resulted in lower investment and ultimately gave the highest benefit cost ratio or higher returns per rupee investment over inorganic fertilizers. Addition of bio-inoculant, although offer the twin benefits of soil quality and fertility enhancement but while meeting a part of nutrients need of crop that only sustain the high yields required these days.','Nazneen Husain, Reena Nair , B.K.Verma and Bhawana Yadav (2022). Growth, Yield and Economics of Fenugreek (Trigonella foenum-graecum L.) as Influenced by Inorganic Fertilizers and Bio-inoculant (Rhizobium, PSB and KSB). Biological Forum – An International Journal, 14(2): 80-83.'),(4750,'126','Biochemical Changes Induced by Dimethoate in the Liver of Fresh\r\nWater Fish Puntius Ticto (HAM)','R.M. Ganeshwade','13 GANESHWADE.pdf','',1,'Freshwater fish Puntius ticto was exposed to lethal (5.012 ppm) and sublethal (2.50 ppm and 1.253\r\nppm) concentration of Dimethoate for 96 hrs and 60 days durations. Biochemical changes in liver tissue were\r\nanalyzed after exposure period. The protein level decreased in lethal and sublethal exposures. Significant\r\ndecrease in glycogen, slight decrease in protein where as increased cholesterol and ascorbic acid content has\r\nbeen noted to both concentrations exposure.','Protein, Glycogen, Cholesterol, Ascorbic acid, Dimethoate, Puntius ticto.','Freshwater fish Puntius ticto was exposed to lethal (5.012 ppm) and sublethal (2.50 ppm and 1.253\r\nppm) concentration of Dimethoate for 96 hrs and 60 days durations. Biochemical changes in liver tissue were\r\nanalyzed after exposure period. The protein level decreased in lethal and sublethal exposures. Significant\r\ndecrease in glycogen, slight decrease in protein where as increased cholesterol and ascorbic acid content has\r\nbeen noted to both concentrations exposure.','Man has attempted to increase the world\'s food\r\nproduction to solve the problem of malnutrition. He\r\nachieved this by increased use of fertilizer to nourish the\r\nplant and by increased use of pesticides to protect them\r\nfrom pests. Recently a large quantity of pesticides and\r\nfertilizers are used to nourish the plants and food\r\nproduction. These chemical have entered into the aquatic\r\nsystem and create pollution, which pose a great threat to\r\naquatic organisms. There are several reports regarding the\r\neffects of pesticides (Arunachalam et.al., 1985) on\r\nphysiology of fish. The pesticides used in pest control\r\nprogrammes also produce many physiological and\r\nbiochemical changes in freshwater organism particularly the\r\nfish (Girija 1984). Although some data available on the\r\neffects of different pesticides on the biochemical aspects\r\nof fish gill. The alteration in biochemical contents in different\r\ntissues of fish is due to toxic effects of different heavy\r\nmetals and pesticides have been reported by many workers\r\n(Saxena et.al., 1989, Khan et.a., 1992, Virk and Sharma 1999,\r\nRawat et.al., 2002). Results of controlled laboratory\r\nexposures of fish to pesticides and related chemical have\r\nrevealed that liver is often the organ with highest pesticides\r\nconcentrations (Duke and Wilson 1971). Although more than\r\n900 commercial pesticides are in general use, fewer than 30\r\nhave been examined for their adverse effects on fish liver\r\n(Pimental et.al., 1971& Gupta 1986).\r\nA very little work has been done on the biochemical\r\nchanges in liver of Puntius ticto. Hence the present attempt\r\nhas been made to study the effect of Dimethoate toxicity\r\non the biochemical contents of liver of freshwater fish\r\nPuntius ticto (Ham).\r\nMATERIAL AND METHODS\r\nPuntius ticto, freshwater fish were collected from\r\nfreshwater sources around Aurangabad city (M.S. India).\r\nFishes were brought to laboratory and kept in aquaria for a\r\nweek using aged water for acclimatization. During\r\nacclimatization they were fed on alternate days with pieces\r\nof live earthworms. The Lc 50 values are determined by\r\nfollowing the guideline given by Finney (1971) and Anon\r\n(1975). The acclimated fishes were exposed to lethal\r\nconcentration (5.012 ppm) for 96 hrs for 60 days.\r\nSimultaneously a control group of healthy fishes were\r\nmaintained under identical conditions. The fishes were\r\nsacrificed immediately at the end of exposure period and\r\nliver was isolated and used to investigate biochemical\r\ncontents under Dimethoate stress. Protein content was\r\nestimated by Follin phenol reagent method (Lowry et.al.,\r\n1951), Glycogen content was analyzed by using Anthrone\r\nreagent method (De zwaan et.al., 1972), Cholesterol content\r\nwas analyzed by the method described by Kolmer et.al,\r\n(1969) and ascorbic acid content was estimated by the\r\nmethod described by Roe J.H. (1967).\r\nRESULTS AND DISCUSSION\r\nThe results obtained in the present investigation are\r\nsummarized in Table 1 and Graph 1. Liver is the primary\r\norgan for detoxification (Hulterer et.al., 1969) and hence it\r\nis expected that toxicant could reach there for detoxification\r\nand disposal. This results in structural changes in the liver,\r\nthe arrangement of hepatic cords leading to the alteration\r\nof liver metabolism and its biochemical content. The\r\npollutants acts as one kind of stress and organism respond\r\nby developing necessary potential occurring in body give\r\nfirst indication of stress. During stress as organism needs\r\nsufficient energy which is supplied from reserve food\r\nmaterial i.e. protein, glycogen, cholesterol etc.\r\nDecrease in the protein content was observed\r\nthroughout the exposure period. The two sublethal exposure\r\nresults shows the protein content decreases are depend\r\nupon the concentration. There is progressive decrease in\r\nthe protein content with increase in concentration. The\r\ntoxicity of dimethoate showed a direct correlation with the\r\nconcentration and time exposure. Similar observation has\r\nbeen observed by Singh and Bhati (1994).Decrease in protein may be due to the impairment of\r\nprotein synthesis or increase in the rate of its degradation\r\nto amino acids. This may be fed to TCA cycle through\r\naminotransferase probably to cope with high energy\r\ndemands in order to meet the stress condition. The decrease\r\nin proteins might be due to their utilization in cell repair\r\nand tissue organization with the formation of lipoproteins,\r\nwhich are important cellular constituents of cell membranes\r\nand cell organelles present in cytoplasm (Harper 1983). The\r\ndecrease in protein content as a result of toxicity stress\r\nhas already being reported by Borah and Yadav (1995) and\r\nMuley et. al., (2007). Singh (1988) reported reduction in\r\nprotein content of liver of Clarias batrachus in response to\r\nMalathion and Y-BHC. Saxena et.al., (1989) attributed the\r\ndecrease in protein content due to decreased protein\r\nsynthesizing capacity of liver of Channa punctatus exposed\r\nto carbaryl and malathion. Jones and Kumar (1996) also\r\nobserved decline in protein content in liver of Etrophis\r\nmaculates under Ekalux stress. Choudhary and Gaur (2001)\r\nobserved decline in liver protein of Cyprinus carpio under\r\nsodium fluoride stress. Shobha et. al., (2007) reported\r\ndecrease in protein, glycogen and lipid contents in the liver\r\nof freshwater fish, Catla catla under Cadmium Chloride\r\nstress.\r\nThe decrease in protein liver during dimethoate\r\nexposure may be due to increased catabolism (Ghousia\r\nBegum and Vijaya Raghawan 1995) and decreased\r\nanabolism of proteins (Khare and Singh 2002). The loss of\r\nprotein under pesticidal stress condition noticed in the\r\npresent study may be due to the utilization of amino acids\r\nin the various catabolic reactions (Jones and Kumar 1996).\r\nDecrease in protein content may be due to increased\r\nproteolysis (Muley et. al., 2007) or it may be due to\r\nmetabolic utilization of the ketoacids to glucogenesis\r\npathway for synthesis of glucose (Schmidt Nielson, 1975).\r\nThe alteration in protein value may also be related to\r\nsome structural changes in the liver, the arrangement of\r\nhepatic words leading to the alteration of liver metabolism.\r\nThe decrease in liver protein is also attributed to the\r\ninhibition of protein synthesis.\r\nLiver glycogen content decreased progressively during\r\nexposure period, this may be due to toxic stress. During\r\nstress an organism needs sufficient energy which is\r\nsupplied from reserved glycogen. Glycogen is stored in the\r\norganism mainly in the liver and muscles in the form of\r\ncarbohydrate. It may provide a reserve food for acute\r\ndemands recurring as a result of transient stress (Love\r\n1980). A fall in the glycogen level clearly indicates its rapid\r\nutilization to meet the enhanced energy demands in fish\r\nexposed to toxicants through glycolysis or hexose\r\nmonophosphate pathway. It is assumed that decrease in\r\nglycogen content may be due to the inhibition of hormones\r\nwhich contribute to glycogen synthesis. Radhaiah et.al.,\r\n(1987) observed decreased carbohydrate content in\r\nheptachlor intoxicated fish Tilapia mossambica and stated\r\nthis may be due to the rapid utilization of carbohydrates\r\nby the tissue possibly to overcome the pesticides induced\r\nstress. James and Sampath (1995) observed decreased liver\r\nglycogen in the Heteropneustes fossilis (Bloch) under\r\nmixtures of copper and ammonia and repor ted\r\nglycogenolysis releasing glucose in to the circulatory\r\nsystem to meet increased energy demand during stress\r\nconditions Susan et. al., (1999) observed drastic decreased\r\nglycogen content in liver of Catla catla under fenvalerate\r\ntoxicity stress. Rawat et.al. (2002) have reported continuous\r\ndecrease in quantity of glycogen in the liver of\r\nHeteropneustes fossilis exposed to endosulfan. Tiwari and\r\nGaneshwade 67\r\nSingh (2009) observed decrease in total protein and\r\nglycogen in the liver of Colisa fasciatus, exposed to\r\nethanolic extract of Nerium indicum mill latex.\r\nDecrease in the glycogen level in liver suggests the\r\npossibility of glycogenolysis. A study indicating such\r\ndepletion in fish models (Mishra and Srivastava 1984) during\r\norganophosphorus toxicity offers an excellent support to\r\nthe decreasing levels of glycogen in the present study.\r\nCholesterol content was decreased in liver during\r\nexposure period. It might be possible that dimethoate\r\ncauses general damage and structural changes in liver and\r\nit leads to effect on capacity of liver to store cholesterol.\r\nKhan et. al., (1992) observed significant decrease of\r\ncholesterol in liver of Cd treated fish Garra mullya and\r\nstated in may be due to general damage in liver. Shakoori\r\net. al., (1996) studied effect of sublethal dose of fenvalevate\r\non the liver of fish Ctenopharyngodon idella and observed\r\ndecreased level of cholesterol. Virk and Sharma (1999)\r\nstudied biochemical changes induced by nickel and\r\nchromium in the liver of Cyprinus carpio and observed\r\nsignificant decline in the cholesterol level of liver and stated\r\nthis may be due to toxicity stress which suppresses the\r\nactivity of a number of enzymes responsible for lipid\r\ntransformation ultimately causing disturbance in lipid\r\nmetabolism and leads decrease in values of cholesterol.\r\nAscorbic acid content plays an important role in\r\ndetoxification of the foreign bodies or toxicants in metabolic\r\nprocess. The main process of detoxification takes place in\r\nliver and is also the main site where ascorbic acids are\r\nsynthesized. Due to pesticidal stress significant increase in\r\nascorbic content was observed in liver of Puntius ticto\r\nduring present study.\r\nBhusari (1985) observed increased amount of ascorbic\r\nacid in liver of Barbus ticto during endosulfan, ekalux and\r\nsevmol exposure. Davane (1991) observed increased level\r\nof liver ascorbic acid in T. Sandkhol to dimethoate, thiodon\r\nand carbaryl. The liver is the main site of detoxification\r\nand having large amount of ascorbic acid. This type of\r\nobservation is also made by Somasundaram et. al., (1978).\r\nThe ascorbic acid plays a role directly related to homeostatic\r\nmechanism and is essential for wound healing and\r\nregeneration. Gould (1963) Shah et. al., (1971) several\r\ninvestigations have reported protective affects of ascorbic\r\nacid against the toxicity of various environmental chemicals\r\nPadhi and Pathaik (1978). Due to this factor ascorbic acid\r\ncontent must have been increased in liver of Puntius ticto\r\nunder dimethoate toxicity stress.','R.M. Ganeshwade (2011). Biochemical Changes Induced by Dimethoate in the Liver of Fresh Water Fish Puntius Ticto (HAM). Biological Forum An International Journal, 3(2): 65-68. '),(4751,'126','New Records of Odonates from Andaman and Nicobar Islands','C. Sivaperuman*, Suresh Kumar Shah and K. Venkataraman','14 SIVAPERUMAN.pdf','',1,'-','-','-','The Odonata is one of the primitive and ancient insect\r\norders. It is very diverse and is the second largest aquatic\r\ninsect order. Dragonflies are predaceous, hemimetabolous\r\nand amphibiotic insects, which inhabits all kinds of\r\nfreshwater habitats either permanent or temporary. Odonata\r\nexperiences two totally different life styles. In almost all\r\ncases, the egg and larval stages are aquatic where as the\r\nadults are terrestrial (Silsby, 2001). The prey of the adults\r\nconsists mostly of the harmful insects of crops, orchards\r\nand forests and thus has a regulatory impact on the agro\r\nforestry. Total of 470 species under 139 genera and 19\r\nfamilies were reported in India (Subramanian, 2009), of which\r\n45 species under 31 genera and 11 families have been\r\nrecorded in Andaman and Nicobar Islands by various\r\nworkers (Fraser, 1933, 1934 & 1936; Chhotani et al., 1983;\r\nLahiri and Mitra, 1993). Recently, Mitra (2002) reported 32\r\nspecies from Nicobar Group of Islands. During the recent\r\nfaunal surveys conducted in Richie\'s archipelago, we have\r\nrecorded four species of dragonflies which are new to\r\nAndaman and Nicobar Islands. The diagnosis, distribution\r\nand systematic position of each species are presented in\r\nthis paper.\r\nSYSTEMATIC ACCOUNT\r\nOrder : Odonata\r\nSuborder : Zygoptera\r\nFamily- Libellulidae\r\n1. Zyxomma petiolatum Rambur\r\nIndia Odon., 3: 409-410.\r\n2007, Zyxomma petiolatum Rambur, Rec. ZSI Occ. Paper\r\n269: 186.\r\nDiagnosis: Eyes metallic green, face olivaceous, thorax\r\nchocolate brown, legs ferruginous, wings hyaline with\r\nbrown tips, abdomen red brown with black circle at each\r\nsegment and swollen at upper half then abruptly thin.\r\nDistribution: throughout India.\r\n2. Tramea limbata similata (Rambur)\r\n1936, Tramea limbata similata (Rambur), Fauna of\r\nBritish India Odon., 3: 436-438.\r\n2007, Tramea limbata similata (Rambur), Rec. ZSI Occ.\r\nPaper 269: 184.\r\nDiagnosis: Upper half of eyes dark brown, lower half\r\nolivaceous, thorax olivaceous with reddish dorsum, wings\r\nhyaline, abdomen blood red with lower abdominal segments\r\nmarked with black.\r\nDistribution: South India, Sri Lanka.\r\nZyxomma petiolatum\r\nTramea limbata similata\r\n3. Diplacodes nebulosa (Fabricius).\r\n1936, Diplacodes nebulosa (Fabricius), Fauna of British\r\nIndia Odon., 3: 335-336.\r\n2007, Diplacodes nebulosa (Fabricius), Rec. ZSI Occ.\r\nPaper 269: 161.\r\nDiagnosis: Eyes brown, face pale brown, thorax and\r\nabdomen black with yellow lines, wings hyaline with brown\r\ntips.\r\nDistribution: Throughout India.\r\n4. Cratilla lineata (Brauer)\r\nBiological Forum An International Journal, 3(2): 69-70(2011) ISSN No. (Print) : 0975-1130\r\nISSN No. (Online) : 2249-3239\r\n70 Patil, Zafar, Bapat and Bhoir\r\n1936, Cratilla lineata Forster, Fauna of British India\r\nOdon., 3: 286-288.\r\n2005, Cratilla lineata (Brauer), Pictorial Handbook on\r\nCommon Dragonflies and Damselflies of Kerala: 34p.\r\nDiagnosis: Upper half of eyes red brown and lower\r\nhalf pale, face pale yellow, thorax dark ash marked with\r\nyellow, abdomen black with some fine orange yellow stripes,\r\nwings hyaline with smoky tinge and brown tips.','C. Sivaperuman*, Suresh Kumar Shah and K. Venkataraman (2011). New Records of Odonates from Andaman and Nicobar Islands. Biological Forum An International Journal, 3(2): 69-70. '),(4752,'119','Host infestation Potentiality of N. thymus to Control the Uzifly of muga silkworm, Antheraea assamensis (Helfer) – A Bio-control Tool for Controlling Uzifly','B. Choudhury, Rajesh Kumar, Preetirekha Chutia and Girin Rajkhowa','1 DR RAJESH KUMAR.pdf','',1,'Muga silkworm, Antheraea assamensis (Heilfer), which produces the golden yellow silk is reared outdoor on two primary food plants; som (Persaea bomycina King) and soalu (Litsaea monopetela). It completes six crop/annum with two commercial crops viz., Spring (May-June) and Autumn (October-November) and each commercial crop is preceded by pre-seed crops and seed crops. Owing to its inherent outdoor mode of rearing and multivoltinism, the silkworm is exposed to a complex of pest and predators and diseases during rearing period, especially in pre seed and seed crops. It is observed that during winter seed crops viz., Aghenua (November-January) and Chotua (February-March), uzifly (Exorista philippinensis and Blepheripa zebina).','Seed, crops, muga silkworm, hyperparasitoids, pests, predators.','Muga silkworm, Antheraea assamensis (Heilfer), which produces the golden yellow silk is reared outdoor on two primary food plants; som (Persaea bomycina King) and soalu (Litsaea monopetela). It completes six crop/annum with two commercial crops viz., Spring (May-June) and Autumn (October-November) and each commercial crop is preceded by pre-seed crops and seed crops. Owing to its inherent outdoor mode of rearing and multivoltinism, the silkworm is exposed to a complex of pest and predators and diseases during rearing period, especially in pre seed and seed crops. It is observed that during winter seed crops viz., Aghenua (November-January) and Chotua (February-March), uzifly (Exorista philippinensis and Blepheripa zebina).','The pest status of muga silkworm, Antheraea assamensis is complex and it plays a major role in limiting the production of silk. Like diseases the muga silkworms are also exposed to several pests and predators in different seasons and the intensity of crop loss are also varied from season to season. Depending on intensity of pest & predators they are classified as major and minor. Among different pests (predators & parasites) reported on muga silkworm, two species of uzifly, Blephripa zabina Walker is the major Tachniid parasitoids attacking muga silkworm particularly during December-April causing 48.7 to 80 % loss in seed growing areas of Assam. In India, information on management of uzifly on muga silkworm is scanty. Pest management keys play a major role in increasing the production and productivity of muga silk. As muga silkworm is reared outside on the primary host plant, Persea bombycina (Family Lauraceae) and attacked by uzifly. Mass multiplication of Exoristobia philippiensis / N. thymus and local parasitoid within a radius of 1.0 km at different locations in the farmers’ field is to minimize the uzifly infestation for increasing the production of cocoons of muga silkworm.\r\nMATERIAL AND METHODS\r\nParasites \r\nUzi fly: Exorista sorbillans and Blepharipa zebina (Diptera : Tachinidae) are tachinid fly causes considerable damage to the muga silk industry accounting for 20-40% and 80-90% loss in seed \r\ngrowing areas during winter and post winter (December-March) months in upper and lower Assam respectively is a major pest.\r\nNature of damage of uzifly: The gravid female parasitic fly lays 250-300 eggs an average of 30-40 on a single host & hatching takes place within three days of oviposition. The fly prefers to lay eggs on the body of the 4t & 5th stage worms. The maggots bore into the body of the silkworm larva leaving a black scar at the entry point and started growing feeding silkworm fluid. The mature maggot comes out by making hole in the cocoon shell after killing the pupae. The maggot pupates inside the soil. In case of heavy infestation in the early 4th stage the worms do not spin cocoons but later stage infestation allows the worms to spin cocoons.\r\nHyperpasitoides:\r\nBehavioral aspects on Nesolynx thymus: Behavioral study has been done in respect of host infestation potentiality, host searching ability and parasitization. Uzifly pupae infested more than other pupae and 219 numbers of emerged parasitoid (N. thymus) recorded from a single uzifly pupa (Table 1). During host searching ability, the searching ability was recorded vertically and horizontally. It was observed that horizontally 50-200 mtr and vertically 0.5 cm were found more effective in searching host (Table 2.) (Choudhury and Sonowal, 2000-01).\r\nHost infestation potentiality: A single gravid fly could infest 2-3 maggot of uzifly.\r\nRESULT AND DISCUSSION\r\nFor effective suppression of uzifly infestation in mulberry silkworm, an IPM package comprising of an ovicide (i.e. uzicide, a liquid formulation of 1 % benzoic acid) against eggs, augmentative release of indigenous gregarious (N. thymus) and solitary (Dirhinus sp.) parasitoids against pupae and dusting of diflubenzuron (Dimilin) on maggots/puparia to suppress the reproductive efficiency of the adults, has been recommended (Kumar et al, 1991). Among different parasitoides N. thymus was found efficient parasitoid followed by Spalongia endieus (Pteromalidae) and Brachymeria lasus (Chalcididae). The highest parasitisation of 55.1-64.1 % was observed in N. thymus followed by S. endieus (25.2-33.9 %) and B. lasus (10.3-11.9%) (Kishore et al., 2004) in mulberry silkworm. Prasad et al. (2006) have developed an IPM package for uzifly in silkworm, the results showed that the highest reduction (83.68 %) in uzifly incidence was recorded by adopting a package (uzicide + uzitrap + N. thymus) followed by uzicide+ N. thymus (76.14 %), uzicide + uzi trap (73.95 %) ad uzitrap + N. thymus (47.55%).\r\nAs muga silkworm is reared outside on tree in natural condition and pest & predators attacks muga silkworm.\r\n Muga silkworm is sensitive to chemicals, so any insecticides or pesticides cannot be utilized to control uzifly during rearing period. Infestation potentiality of N. thymus was studied (Choudhury and Rajkhowa, 1996-97). Seasonal variations of N. thymus life cycle was also studied and was found that life cycle is completed within 14-16 days during July – August and 40-45 days during January – February (Choudhury and Rajkhowa, 1997-98).\r\n In this regard, a research has been conducted on host potentiality infestation of N. thymus for controlling uzifly in muga silkworm is found 42.2 % at RMRS, Boko and at farmer’s field 62.1% (Choudhuryand Sahu, 2002-03) (Table 4.) (Fig. 1-6).\r\n Release of parastitoid, Exoristobia philippiensis at Regional Muga Research Station (RMRS), Boko throughout the year (2005-06) and mass release of the same during Jarua crop (Pre seed Crop, Nov-Dec) resulted in complete control of uzifly infestation. Similarly, trial conducted at two farmers’ field near Boko during the Jarua crop 2005 recorded 4.44-15% uzifly infestation against 50-60 % infestation under normal conditions (Sahu, 2005-06).\r\nAfter conducting all studies, it is observed that N. thymus is an effective biological control agent for controlling uzifly.\r\n','B. Choudhury, Rajesh Kumar, Preetirekha Chutia and Girin Rajkhowa (2014).Host infestation Potentiality of N. thymus to Control the Uzifly of muga silkworm, Antheraea assamensis (Helfer) – A Bio-control Tool for Controlling Uzifly. Biological Forum – An International Journal 6(1): 1-4. '),(4754,'119','Status of Plant Diversity in Alpine Area of Rakchham- Chitkul Wild life Sanctuary of District Kinnaur, Himachal Pradesh','R.K. Verma and K.S. Kapoor ','2 DR RK VERMA.pdf','',1,'A study was conducted to understand the plant diversity along an altitudinal gradient with elevations varying from 3700m to 4700m above msl in alpine area of Rani Kanda in Rakchham Chitkul wild life sanctuary in district Kinnaur, Himachal Pradesh during 2009. Total number of plant species was 102 belonging to 31 families and 66 genera. The dominant families were Asteraceae, Rosaceae, Ploygonaceae, Lamiaceae, Scrophulariaceae and Ranunculaceae. The number of shrub species was 5 and 4 at elevation of 3700-4200m and 4200-4700m with the dominance of Juniperus indica at both the elevation. The number of herbs species was 81 and 62 at 3700-4200m and 4200-4700m with the dominance of Thymus linearis at both the elevation. The distribution pattern of most of species was contiguous. Index of diversity for herb was 3.54 and 3.66 in these elevations respectively. Out of 50 medicinal plant species recorded from the area, 14 species i.e., Betula utilis, Meconopsis aculeata, Picrorhiza kurrooa, Heracleum lanatum, Polygonatum multiflorum, Polygonatum verticillatum, Podophyllum hexandrum, Selinum tenuifolium, Rheum australe, Rheum webbianum, Rhodiola heterodonta, Rhododendron anthopogon, Rhododendron campanulatum, Saussurea obvallata fall in the category of threatened plants.','Plant diversity, dominance, diversity index, distribution, threatened plant.','A study was conducted to understand the plant diversity along an altitudinal gradient with elevations varying from 3700m to 4700m above msl in alpine area of Rani Kanda in Rakchham Chitkul wild life sanctuary in district Kinnaur, Himachal Pradesh during 2009. Total number of plant species was 102 belonging to 31 families and 66 genera. The dominant families were Asteraceae, Rosaceae, Ploygonaceae, Lamiaceae, Scrophulariaceae and Ranunculaceae. The number of shrub species was 5 and 4 at elevation of 3700-4200m and 4200-4700m with the dominance of Juniperus indica at both the elevation. The number of herbs species was 81 and 62 at 3700-4200m and 4200-4700m with the dominance of Thymus linearis at both the elevation. The distribution pattern of most of species was contiguous. Index of diversity for herb was 3.54 and 3.66 in these elevations respectively. Out of 50 medicinal plant species recorded from the area, 14 species i.e., Betula utilis, Meconopsis aculeata, Picrorhiza kurrooa, Heracleum lanatum, Polygonatum multiflorum, Polygonatum verticillatum, Podophyllum hexandrum, Selinum tenuifolium, Rheum australe, Rheum webbianum, Rhodiola heterodonta, Rhododendron anthopogon, Rhododendron campanulatum, Saussurea obvallata fall in the category of threatened plants.','The alpine regions mainly fall in the great Himalayan ranges, these are approximately 2400 km in length and vary from 240 to 400 km in width with a number of peaks rising well above 7200 m, constituting the most striking feature in the geography of the world and are also characterized by certain geological formations. These regions are characterized by relatively low atmospheric pressure, low temperature, intense insulation, rapid and high ultraviolet radiation alongwith other related effects as chain reactions. All these factors are closely and inseparably inter linked in a complex chain of causes and effects. The entire complex of these closely integrated and interlinked factors constitute a self regulating dynamic alpine ecosystem.\r\nAlpine pastures in India occupy about 1.52 per cent of the total land area in the country. The total geographical area of the Himalaya in India is 61.5 m ha, out of which 17.8 m ha area is covered by alpine pastures usually found at an altitude above 2500 m. These pastures are supposed to be the only true grasslands in India where the grazing density is very high. Western Himalayan pastures are highly affected by heavy grazing pressure. The present level of grass production in the Himalayan grasslands is even less than 25 % of their possible potential. Alpine pastures in Himachal Pradesh cover around 10,052 sq km i.e. 17% of the total geographical area of the state. For the sustained development of these resources, proper management is the only way out. Floristic composition, population size and diversity of species are most significant biological elements of an ecosystems. Phytosociological studies at the same time are also useful for comparing different communities. Due to lack of proper management practices, a large number of pastures lands have been converted or are in the process of conversion to degraded lands. Very little scientific attention has been given to the vegetation of the alpine regions. The present study was carried out to know the status of plant species diversity of alpine area, which in turn could be helpful in devising strategies for better management.\r\nMATERIALS AND METHODS\r\nThe study was conducted in alpine area of Ranikanda in Rakchham- Chitkul wild life sanctuary of Kinnaur district in Himachal Pradesh during 2009 between 3700 m to 4700 m elevation range. The site lies at N 310 18’ 50.4” to N 310 18’ 58.9” latitude and E 780 30’ 49.6” to E 780 30’ 28.6” longitude. The whole of the area was divided into two altitudes i.e. 3700-4200m and 4200-4700m for conducting the phyto-sociological study. Quadrats of size 3m x 3m and 1mx1m laid out randomly for shrubs and herbs + regeneration respectively. \r\n \r\n Verma and Kapoor 6 \r\n \r\nThe seedlings were considered as herb while saplings as shrubs. The plant species data was analysed for density, frequency and abundance according to formulas given by Curtis and McIntosh (1950). The relative values of density, frequency and dominance were summed to get Importance Value Index (IVI) of individual species. The abundance to frequency ratio (A/F) of different species was determined for eliciting the distribution pattern. This ratio indicates regular (<0.025), random (0.025 to 0.050) and contiguous (>0.050) distribution (Curtis and Cottam, 1956). The plant species diversity was calculated by using Shannon-Wiener diversity Index (H) (Shannon-Wiener, 1963).\r\n S \r\n H= - Σ (Ni/N) ln (Ni/N) \r\n i=1\r\nConcentration of dominance (C) was measured by Simpson’s Index (Simpson, 1949). \r\n S \r\n C = Σ (Ni/N)2 \r\n I = 1 \r\nWhere Ni = importance value of species i and N = total importance value of all the species in both the indices. \r\nRichness Index was estimated as per Margalef (1958) i .e. R = S-1/ln N\r\nEvenness Index was calculated as per Hill (1973) i. e. E = H/ ln S\r\nWhere S = total number of species, N = total number of individuals of all the species, H = Index of diversity.\r\nRESULTS AND DISCUSSION\r\nThe total number of plant species was 102 belonging to 31 families and 66 genera. The dominant families were Asteraceae, Rosaceae, Ploygonaceae, Lamiaceae, Scrophulariaceae and Ranunculaceae. Among the 5 species of shrubs, Juniperus indica was the dominant species having maximum density (4166.67ha-1) and frequency (45%) at 3700-4200m elevation (Table 1). This was followed by Rhododendron campanulatum, Lonicera orientalis and Rosa webbiana. In term of abundance, Rhododendron campanulatum observed maximum value (10) followed by Lonicera orientalis and Rosa webbiana. On the basis of IVI, Juniperus indica was dominant species followed by Rhododendron campanulatum, Rosa webbiana and Lonicera orientalis. The distribution pattern of all the species was contiguous. The contiguous distribution is the commonest pattern in nature, random distribution is found in very uniform environment. The general preponderance of contiguous distribution in vegetation has been reported by several workers (Kershaw, 1973; Singh and Yadava, 1974; Kunhikannan et al., 1998). \r\n In case of herbs including regeneration, total number of species was 81 at 3700-4200m elevation (Table 2). \r\nAnaphalis contorta was the dominant species having maximum density (5.28m-2) and frequency (55%). This was followed by Thymus linearis, Polygonum polystachya and Arenaria festucoides in term of density. The highest value of abundance was recorded for Thymus linearis (17.75) followed by Arenaria festucoides, Polygonum polystachya and Potentilla multifida. Thymus linearis recorded the highest value of IVI (43.62) followed by Anaphalis contorta (35.16), Polygonum polystachya (19.75) and Betula utilis (12.43). The lowest IVI (0.31) was recorded for Lactuca macrorhiza. The ratio of abundance to frequency indicates that the distribution pattern of all the species was contiguous. The regeneration of Betula utilis was recorded. \r\nAt elevation 4200-4700m, the total number of shrub species was 4 (Table 3). Juniperus indica was the dominant species having maximum density (11805.56ha-1) and frequency (62.50%). This was followed by Rhododendron anthopogon, Lonicera hypoleuca and Rosa macrophylla. The highest value of abundance was recorded for Juniperus indica (17) followed Rhododendron anthopogon, Lonicera hypoleuca and Rosa macrophylla.\r\nOn the basis of IVI, Juniperus indica recorded the highest value (182.01) followed by Rhododendron anthopogon (90.88), Lonicera hypoleuca (13.86) and Rosa macrophylla (13.24). The distribution pattern of all the species was contiguous. At elevation of 4200-4700m, total number of herbaceous species was 62 (Table 4). Thymus linearis was the dominant species having maximum density (2.45m-2) and frequency (58.33%).This was followed by Cassiope fastigiata, Bistorta affinis and Bergenia stracheyi in term of density. The highest value of abundance was observed for Arenaria festucoides (10.14) followed by Anaphalis triplinervis, Bistorta affinis and Cassiope fastigiata. On the basis of IVI, Thymus linearis recorded highest value (33.02) followed by Bergenia stracheyi (17.76), Bistorta affinis (16.50) and Cynoglossum micranthum (11.99). The lowest value of IVI was observed for Saussurea candicans (0.35). The ratio of abundance to frequency (A/F) indicates that the distribution pattern of all the species was contiguous. The pattern of distribution depends both on physico-chemical nature of the environment as well as on the biological peculiarities of the organisms themselves. In this study, distribution pattern for the plant species was mostly contiguous which shows that there was no severe competition among the species at all the altitudes since regular type of distribution is almost negligible. \r\nThe value of concentration of dominance (C), index of diversity (H), richness index (R) and evenness index (E) for shrubs and herbs at different altitudes was given in Table 5. The higher the value of concentration of dominance, the greater is the homogenous nature of the community and vice- versa (Kohli et al., 2004). The lower value of dominance shows that dominance of plants is shared by many species. The diversity indices and richness index was more in lower elevation indicating higher diversity of the species. The species diversity is regulated by long term factors like community stability and evolutionary time as heterogeneity of both macro and micro environment affects the diversification among different communities. The higher values of index of diversity indicate the variability in the type of species and heterogeneity in the communities, whereas, the lesser values point to the homogeneity in the community. The lower value of dominance index and higher value of diversity index was observed by Santvan (1993) in the alpine vegetation near Rahla in Kullu, Himachal Pradesh. Similar findings were also reported by Verma et al (2008) while studied alpine pasture of Talra wild life sanctuary of Himachal Pradesh. The evenness index was comparatively more in lower altitudinal range than higher altitudinal range indicating that species are evenly distributed in lower elevations. \r\nThe nature of plant community at a place is determined by the species that grow and develop in such environment (Bliss, 1962). Differences in the species composition from altitude to altitude is mostly due to micro environment changes (Mishra et al; 1997).\r\nMedicinal Plants: The important plants of medicinal value found in alpine area of Rani Kanda in Rakchham Chitkul wild life sanctuary in district Kinnaur of Himachal Pradesh were compiled following Chopra et al (1956), Kirtikar and Basu (1987) and Kala (2002). These include; Anaphalis contorta, Anemone rivularis, Anemone obtusiloba, Aster flaccidus, Bergenia stracheyi, Betula utilis, Bistorta affinis, Caltha palustris, Cassiope fastigiata, Corydalis govaniana, Cynoglossum micranthum, Delphinium brunonianum, Epilobium angustifolium, Fragaria vesca, Gentiana depressa, Gentianella moorcroftiana, Geranium pratense, Geranium wallichianum, Heracleum lanatum, Meconopsis aculeata, Oxyria digyna, Picrorhiza kurrooa, Plantago tebetica, Pleurospermum brunonis, lactuca dissecta, Morina longifolia, Phlomis bracteosa, Pleurospermum candollei, Podophyllum hexandrum, Polygonatum multiflorum, Polygonatum verticillatum, Potentilla nepalensis, Potentilla atrosanguinea, Rheum austral, Rheum webbianum, Rhodiola heterodonata, Rhododendron anthopogon, Rhododendron campanulatum, Rosa macrophylla, Rosa webbiana, Saussurea candicans, Saussurea obvallata, Sedum ewersii, Selium tenuifolium, Swertia purpurascens, Taraxacum officinale, Thalictrum foliolosum, Thymus linearis, Verbascum Thapsus, Viola biflora.\r\nThreatened Plants: Out of 50 medicinal plant species recorded from the area, 14 species i.e. Betula utilis, Meconopsis aculeata, Picrorhiza kurrooa, Heracleum lanatum, Polygonatum multiflorum, Polygonatum verticillatum, Podophyllum hexandrum, Selinum tenuifolium, Rheum australe, Rheum webbianum, Rhodiola heterodonta, Rhododendron anthopogon, Rhododendron campanulatum, Saussurea obvallata fall in the category of threatened plants when compared with the available literature like Red Data Book and CAMP Reports (Ved et al, 2003). The rarity in these medicinal plants is due to habitat alteration, narrow range of distribution along with other factors. A major threat is for the species those are uprooted and their underground parts such as rhizomes, tubers, bulbs and roots are used in medicine. The habitat of most of the plant species have shrunk due to expansion of human population and environmental degradation primarily due to heavy live stock grazing, uncontrolled and unscientific harvest of species, unregulated tourism and construction of roads etc.\r\nThe better conservation of natural resources can be done by inclusion of a section on the plant conservation especially of rare and endangered medicinal plants in the wild life protection act, promotion of community based conservation, ex-situ conservation through tissue culture, developing cultivation technologies and nurseries of medicinal plants and conducting of regular training on the procedure of medicinal plants collection, processing among the local people, traders and real stake holders.\r\nIt can be concluded from the present study that the dominance of non-leguminous forbs such as Thymus linearis, Anaphalis contorta, Polygonum polystachya, Bistorta affinis and Cynoglossum micranthum is more than grasses and leguminous forbs. It may be due to heavy grazing pressure. These dominant non-leguminous forbs are not preferred by the animals for eating. The results are in conformity with the earlier studies made by Ellison (1960), Singh (1967), Santvan (1993) and Verma et al (2008). \r\nThe overgrazing results in changes in botanical composition which however, varies with the type of vegetation cover, its palatability, forage productivity, the way it is utilized and sequence of climate events (Shankaranarayan, 1977; Kapoor and Singh, 1991) which necessitate suitable strategies for management by regulating the grazing. If suitable steps are not taken well in times, there could be further decline in the density of preferred species of leguminous forbs.\r\n','R.K. Verma and K.S. Kapoor (2014). Status of Plant Diversity in Alpine Area of Rakchham- Chitkul Wild life Sanctuary of District Kinnaur, Himachal Pradesh. Biological Forum – An International Journal 6(1): 5-12. '),(4755,'120','Biology of Hypsopygia postflava (Lepidoptera: Pyralidae), a Snout Moth Parasitic on the Nest of the Paper wasp Polistes olivaceus (Vespidae: Polistes)','Phong Huy Pham','16 PHONG HUY PHAM.pdf','',1,'Hypsopygia postflava, a snout moth parasitic on the nest of the paper wasp Polistes olivaceus was reported first time, with studies on its biology. Head width of moth larvae from third instar and over was difficult to specify because of great variety. The duration of life cycle of H. postflava was 40.46±4.96 days, ranging from 33 to 49 days. Life time of both female adult and male adult was equal (in the 6-9 day range). Survivorship ratio was, for larvae 88%, and for pupae 82.5%. Sex ratio of H. postflava in laboratory experiments (♀:♂) was 1: 1.26 in comparison with 1: 1.55 of that of adult moths emerged from the nest of the paper wasp P. olivaceus. The average number of eggs having in the body of the female adult was 88.93. However female adults only laid a mean of 39.39 eggs during their lifetime. Female adults laid eggs singly or in clumps of a few eggs. The mean ratio of hatched eggs was very low (18.98%). ','Hypsopygia, Lepidoptera, lifetime, paper wasp, Pyralidae, snout moth','Hypsopygia postflava, a snout moth parasitic on the nest of the paper wasp Polistes olivaceus was reported first time, with studies on its biology. Head width of moth larvae from third instar and over was difficult to specify because of great variety. The duration of life cycle of H. postflava was 40.46±4.96 days, ranging from 33 to 49 days. Life time of both female adult and male adult was equal (in the 6-9 day range). Survivorship ratio was, for larvae 88%, and for pupae 82.5%. Sex ratio of H. postflava in laboratory experiments (♀:♂) was 1: 1.26 in comparison with 1: 1.55 of that of adult moths emerged from the nest of the paper wasp P. olivaceus. The average number of eggs having in the body of the female adult was 88.93. However female adults only laid a mean of 39.39 eggs during their lifetime. Female adults laid eggs singly or in clumps of a few eggs. The mean ratio of hatched eggs was very low (18.98%). ','Accidentally, on March 22, 2014 when I was concentrating on my study on the hibernation of the paper wasp, Polistes olivaceus (Pham, 2014), with field trips in Hanoi, I collected a nest of this wasp that it had strangeness in comparison with any nest which had been collected before. I decided to scrutinize the nest. \r\nOn April 12, some adult moths emerged. It made me though whether this was one of moths parasitic on the nest of the paper wasp. I had decided to send specimens of the moth to a colleague of mine in Russian and then he informed me that this was a snout moth parasitic on the nest of the paper wasps, with its scientific name Hypsopygia postflava (Hampson, 1893). \r\nH. postflava is one of the snout moths belonging to the family Pyralidae, the order Lepidoptera. To date, in the world, studies on biology, habit or bionomics of the species have been only produced in Japan by Nakatani et al., (1999) with its parasite on the nest of Polistes jadwigae, and by Kato et al., (2007a,b) with its parasite on the nest of Polistes jokahamae. Those studies are about the life cycle, hibernation, mating, oviposition, and prey use by larvae of the species. Thus H. postflava is yet poorly studied.\r\nIn Vietnam, to now, studies on taxonomy, biology, or bionomic of H. postflava belonging to family Pyralidae are yet very poor and still very lack of documents. However, so far I have not yet had a sufficiency of documents to certify that the snout moth H. postflava is a new record for Vietnam. With discovery of the pupae, and of emergence of adults on the nest of the paper wasp P. olivaceus, the present paper is to record its first parasite on the nest of the paper wasp P. olivaceus, with studies on its biology. \r\nMATERIALS AND METHODS\r\nA nest of the paper wasp P. olivaceus collected at Nghia Do precinct, Cau Giay district, Hanoi, Vietnam (21°03ʹ412 N, 105°47ʹ248 S, altitude 17m). The nest was attached to the roof of a desolate house at an uncultivated filed, with a height of 2.5m from the ground. \r\nAll cells of the nest were particularly observed, and marked with cells which have the present of moth cocoons. In conditional laboratory, emerged adult moths were reared in non-toxic plastic jars (20 cm diameter  12 cm height) by the honey of 50% in concentration. Moth larvae were also reared in non-toxic plastic jars (10 cm diameter  8 cm height) with a number of 5 individuals/jar by larvae and pupae of the rice moth Corcyra cephalonica. The humidity was, in non-plastic jars, made by the absorbent cotton. The shelter of moth larvae and moth pupae was with the cells of the nest of the paper wasp P. olivaceus. Adult female and adult male moths were geminated immediately after they emerged. The examination was taken every day with a frequency of 2 times/day (9 am and 15 pm). Head width of moth larvae were made with the ocular micrometer attached to a stereoscopic dissecting microscope. The temperature and the humidity in the laboratory were automatically marked by a Humidity and Temperature Recorder, Extech RH520. Pictures were taken by a digital camera Canon SD3500 IS.\r\n \r\n Pham 91\r\n \r\nRESULTS AND DISCUSSION\r\nA total of 34 nests of the paper wasp P. olivaceus collected from the beginning of January to the end of March in 2012 and 2014, only the one had the present of the snout moth H. postflava (Fig. 1a). In the world, this moth only discovered in Japan, with its parasitism on the nest of paper wasp P. jadwigae (Nakatani and Yamamoto, 1999) and P. jokahamae (Kato, Yamada, Matsuura and Tsukada, 2007a, b). This paper is thus the first record for parasitism of H. postflava on the nest of the paper wasp P. olivaceus.\r\n \r\n\r\n \r\n \r\nFig. 1. a) The nest of the paper wasp P. olivaceus parasitized by H. postflava, with the silks on the surface of the nest; b) Adult female moth; c) Moth larva; d and e) Moth pupa.\r\n \r\nThe nest of P. olivaceus was with 437 cells, 8 cm in height, 14 cm of the diameter, and 1.1 cm in length of the eccentric peduncle. Of those cells, 25 contained moth cocoons. In the duration of 9 days from 12 to 20 April, 2014, a total of 23 adult moths emerged from the nest of P. olivaceus. Of these, 9 were females and 14 were males. Thus sex ratio of this moth (♀:♂) was 1:1.55, and survivorship ratio of pupae was 92% ((23:25)*100). Adult moths emerge on the beginning of the summer. It suggests that moth pupae overwintered on the nest of the paper wasp P. olivaceus. Reasons for that: 1) Scarce food resources. Because, if moth adults emerge in the duration from October to March of next year, it is very difficult for them to find the nest of P. olivaceus which contains larvae or pupae to lay eggs into or near. In this duration, mated females of the paper wasp P. olivaceus are hibernating (Pham, 2014). Or in other words, new nests of this wasp are not built in this duration 2) Severe weather conditions. Because this is the winter period (October - March), and an average temperature is under 15°C in Northern Vietnam.\r\nHead width of moth larvae showed in Fig. 2. According to this data, head width of first instar larva was 0.2-0.22 mm, and of second instar larva 0.3-0.4 mm. However, that of third instar larvae and over was very difficult to determine due to great variation (from 0.4 to 1.4 mm). Kato et al, 2007 stated that the head width of overwintering moth larvae varied greatly between the nests and also within some of the nests, and the authors did not determine any age of the moth larvae. Thus results examined here only define the age of first instar and second instar moth larvae.\r\nThe duration of the life cycle of H. postflava was variable, from 33 to 49 days, and the total mean duration was 40.46±4.96 days (Table 1). Of these, eggs 5.72±1.23 days, larvae 22.03±1.75 days, pupae 8.33±0.99 days, before laying 4.38±1.02 days. The duration of immature stages of H. postflava (first generation) provided with pupae of the paper wasp P. jokahamae in Japan are: egg 8.1±0.8 days, larva 23.6±1.8 days, pupa 11.4±0.9 days, and life cycle 56.4±11.7 days (Kato et al. 2007). The difference between two these study results is due to some ecological features like local climate and food available, which could affect every immature stage development, the pupal stage is very similar to that in their study result. Newly hatched larvae are almost no displacement, 4-5 hours then they move and forage the food resources. Larvae ate each other when deficiency food or greatly individual density (10 individuals/jar and over) without eating eggs, and often spin the silk to fix the shelter with the plastic jar. \r\n \r\n Pham 92\r\n \r\nMature larvae spin the silk cocoon before they are of the formation of pupae. Moth larvae usually hide in the shelter except for foraging the food. This is one of the basic and important habits of this snout moth. Because, with this habit, larvae will escape the attack of wasps or of other natural enemies. Life time of both female moth and male moth was very similar, variable from 6 to 9 days, an average 7.76±1.04 days to females, and 7.51±1.03 days to males. Most of female moths died after laying egg (about 10-12 hours). With adding on this datum, life-span of the snout moth varied from 37 to 53 days. Thus it is considered that H. postflava typically completes two or three generations per year. \r\n \r\n\r\n \r\nFig. 2. Frequency of head width of moth larvae reared under the laboratorial condition.\r\nTable 1. Life cycle and life time (days, average ± SD (n)) of both female adult and\r\nmale adult of H. postflava.\r\nImmature stage Mature stage\r\nEgg Larva Pupa Before laying Life cycle Life time of female Life time of male\r\n3-8\r\n5.72±1.23\r\n(n=110)\r\n28.8°C;\r\n85.4% RH 20-25\r\n22.03±1.75\r\n(n=60)\r\n31.8°C;\r\n85.1% RH 7-10\r\n8.33±0.99\r\n(n=40)\r\n35.3°C;\r\n83.7% RH 3-6\r\n4.38±1.02\r\n(n=30)\r\n36.5°C;\r\n82.3% RH 33-49\r\n40.46±4.96\r\n(n=30)\r\n33.3°C;\r\n83.1% RH 6-9\r\n7.76±1.04\r\n(n=31)\r\n35.2°C;\r\n83.5% RH 6-9\r\n7.51±1.03\r\n(n=39)\r\n35.2°C;\r\n83.5% RH\r\n\r\nTable 2. Survivorship ratio of larva and pupa and sex ratio of H. postflava.\r\nLarva Pupa Adult\r\nNumber observed Number emerged Ratio\r\n(%) Number observed Number emerged Ratio\r\n(%) Female Male Ratio\r\n\r\n50 44 88 40 33 82.50 31 39 1: 1.26\r\n33.8°C; 84.3% RH 35.2°C; 84.1% RH \r\n \r\nSurvivorship ratio of larva and pupa of H. postflava was 88% and 82.5% respectively (Table 2). In all study time, most of moth larvae reared with individuals of 1st and 2sd age died after 2-3 days. This can be explained the following: Either the habit of colony life, it means here they help each other in foraging for the food or mechanical impacts in experimental manipulations. A total of 70 adult moths examined in the laboratory. Of these, 31 were females, and 39 were males (Table 2). Hence the sex ratio here (♀:♂) was 1:1.26. In comparison with that above, it is inconsiderably different. With the difference about the ratio between the two genders, it can also suggest that there is choice of females to \r\nmales when they mate together. This is one of the causes which lead unsuccessful mating of moth pairs experimented (showed below). \r\nIn a total of 18 experimented pairs, 3 pairs did not lay eggs (3, 6, and 9), 15 pairs dissected still remained eggs in the body (Table 3). The following causes are to be considered: 1) unmated females; 2) rearing space; 3) food to rear immature and adult stage (larvae of C. cephalonica and the honey); 4) temperature and humidity in the laboratory; or 5) unmatured eggs. As for 3 pairs (3, 6 and 9), causes of 2, 3, and 4 are rejected due to the other pairs (laying eggs). All of such five causes are referred to the case of 15 pairs.\r\n \r\n Pham 93\r\nTable 3. Data on eggs of H. postflava.\r\nPairs Eggs laid Eggs remained in the body A total of eggs Eggs hatched Rate of hatched eggs (%) Situation of eggs\r\n1 34 50 84 0 0 C\r\n2 64 20 84 6 9.4 C\r\n3 0 83 83 0 - -\r\n4 20 62 82 3 15 S\r\n5 80 11 91 66 82.5 C,S\r\n6 0 88 88 0 - -\r\n7 84 32 116 0 0 C\r\n8 73 19 92 0 0 C,S\r\n9 0 88 88 0 - -\r\n10 10 78 88 0 0 S\r\n11 71 10 81 0 0 C,S\r\n12 55 26 81 42 76.4 C,S\r\n13 87 11 98 7 8.0 C\r\n14 25 - - 0 0 S\r\n15 15 74 89 0 0 C\r\n16 61 - - 57 93.4 C,S\r\n17 15 - - 0 0 S\r\n18 15 74 89 0 0 S\r\nMean 39.39 48.40 88.93 10.06 18.98 \r\n C. Clump, S. Single\r\n \r\nHence, the mean egg total laid was only 39.39 eggs/pair. The egg total of a female moth ranged from 81 to 116 (mean 88.93 eggs). Also this snout moth, with the food of pupae of the paper wasp P. jokahamae, a female moth lays a mean of 133.9 eggs during their mean lifetime of 10.7 days (Kato et al, 2007a). Thus, the fecundity of H. postflava is much dependent on the food and local climate. Rate of hatched eggs was very low, ranging from 0 to 93.4% (an average of 18.98%/pair). This is also considered as such four causes of 1, 3, 4, and 5 above. As for situation of eggs, female adults of the moth laid eggs singly or in clumps of a few eggs. This datum is the same as that reported by Kato et al., (2007a).\r\n',' Phong Huy Pham (2014). Biology of Hypsopygia postflava (Lepidoptera: Pyralidae), a Snout Moth Parasitic on the Nest of the Paper wasp Polistes olivaceus (Vespidae: Polistes). Biological Forum – An International Journal 6(2): 90-93. '),(4756,'120','Estimating the Second virial Coefficients of some Real Gases NH3: NH3, CH3NH2: CH3NH2, (CH3)2 NH : (CH3)2 NH, (CH3)3 N : (CH3)3 N, CH3NH2: (CH3)2 NH, CH3NH2:, (CH3)N and (CH3)2 NH : (CH3)3N pairs and related Thermodynamic aspects','M. Baghernejad , M. Aghaie, K. Zare and H. Aghaie','27 MEHDI BAGHERNEJAD IRAN.pdf','',1,'Using the Gaussian 2003 software and MP2/6-311++G(d,p) method for the NH3:NH3, CH3NH2: CH3NH2, (CH3)2 NH : (CH3)2 NH, (CH3)3 N : (CH3)3 N, CH3NH2: (CH3)2 NH, CH3NH2:, (CH3)N and (CH3)2 NH : (CH3)3N gas pairs the optimized interaction energies between two molecules of each considered pair as a function of the distances between the centers of two considered molecules in the pair were evaluated and the results were interpreted according to the Lennard–Jones equation. In addition, the second virial coefficient of each gas pair was calculated upon the appropriate equations of statistical thermodynamics. The resultant virial coefficients were almost comparable with those are available in the literature.','Interaction energy, Lennard – Jones potential, Virial coefficient ','The results of this study showed that the interaction energy between two like or unlike molecules of a given gas-pair is almost insignificant (except in fairly short separations ) and is a function of the separation of two molecules. The interaction energies at very short separation are highly positive that indicates the high repulsion between two considered molcules. In opposite, the interaction energies are some what negative at desired separations that indicates the small attraction between two considered molecules. The plot of the interaction energies versus the separations of two considered molecules has a well with a depth of - ε. The trend of ε for studied gas-pairs is as follow:\r\nσ (CH3)3 N : (CH3)3 N > σ (CH3)2 NH : (CH3)3 N = σ (CH3)2 NH : (CH3)2 NH > σ CH3NH2: CH3NH2 > σ CH3 NH2 : (CH3)3 N > σ NH3: NH3 > σ CH3NH2 : (CH3)2 NH \r\nSimilarly :\r\nε CH3NH2 : (CH3)2 NH > ε (CH3)3 N : (CH3)3 N > ε CH3)2 NH : (CH3)2 NH > ε CH3NH2: CH3NH2 > ε (CH3)2 NH : (CH3)3 N = ε CH3NH2 : (CH3)3 N> ε NH3:NH3 \r\nThe intraction energies of each studied gas pair, U(r), can be represented by an equation like that of Lennard jones equation. \r\nIn addition, the second virial coefficient of each gas-pair is temperature dependent and increases with temperature increasing. \r\n','The Lennard – Jones potential is one of the simple models that approximates the interaction energy between a pair of like or unlike molecules. The simplified form of the Lennard – Jones potential, U(r), is as follow (Atkins, 1960; Baghernejad et al., 2013; Menduna, Carlos, et al 2001), Vargas et al., 2000)\r\n …(1)\r\nThe plot of U(r) versus r intercepts the r axis at r = σ , where U(r) = 0 and has a minimum at r = re , \r\nwhere U(r) = -ε, while ε is the depth of the potential well (Fig.1).\r\nIn order to improve the equation (1), we may pay attention to the fact that at r = σ, we have U(r) = 0 and at r = rm , U(r) = - ε and (∂U /∂r) = 0 at r = rm (Atkins, 1960; Mac Quarrie 1976; Haar, (1971); Baghernejad, et al., 2013). These conditions lead to the following equation (Atkins,1960; Aghaie, et al., 2010; Haar, (1971); Baghernejad, et al., 2013).\r\n Equation (2) is quite straightforward in application. If we take r = 2.5 σ, we will obtain the value U(r) = - 0.0163ε which is labeled as \" truncated Lennard – Jones potential \" (U(rc))\r\nU (rc) = U(r) (2.5 σ) - 0.0163ε …(3)\r\nEquations 1-3 may be used for interpreting the interaction energy between tow molecules of a gas pair of unlike molecules (Atkins, 1960; Aghaie, et al., 2010; Maity, et al.,1999, Baghernejad, et al., 2013) \r\nSTATISTICAL VIRIAL EQUATION\r\nState equations are very important in calculating the thermodynamic properties of pure and mixed fluids (Atkins, 1960; Aghaie, et al., 2010; Maity, et al.1999, Baghernejad, et al., 2013; Garret,1980). The results of such calculations are very helpfull in industrial processes and theoretical studies (Atkins, 1960; Aghaie, et al., 2010; Maity, et al.1999, Baghernejad, et al., 2013; Garret, 1980). We can find many state equations for pure and mixed fluids in the literature, but virial equation of state is more intrest fluids Virial equation of state can be represented as follow (Atkins, 1960; Aghaie, et al., 2010; Baghernejad, et al., 2013):\r\n + … (4)\r\nOr \r\n (5) \r\nwhere Z is the compressibility factor of pure or mixed fluid and B\'(T) , C\'(T) , D\'(T) , … , B(T), C(T), … are constants for a particular fluid and only a function of temperature ; P is pressure and Vm is molar volume of fluid .\r\nESTIMATION OF SECOND VIRIAL COEFFICIENT\r\n In statistical thermodynamics , the equation relating the pressure of a nonideal fluid to its canonical partition function ”Q” is (Tsuchiya, et al., 1996; Aghaie, et al., 2010; Villiam et al.,1964) :\r\n … (6)\r\n Translational classical partition function for a sample of a real dilute gas, containing N molecules, can be written as follow(Aghaie, et al., 2010; Mason, et al., 1996):\r\n \r\nwhere\r\n …(8)\r\nand U(r) is the pair potential energy as shown in equation (2). By means of equation (6) and (7), we obtain (Aghaie, et al., 2010; Mac Quarrie, 1976; Ley-koo, et al., 1951):\r\n …(9)\r\nWhere B:\r\n …(10)\r\nis the second virial coefficient of state equation of the real dilute gas (see equation 5); NA is Avogadro constant, k is Boltzmann constant, and T is temperature in Kelvin.\r\nRESULTS AND DISCUSSION\r\nThe total electronic energies , Ee(r), of two like molecules of every pair : NH3:NH3, CH3NH2: CH3NH2 , (CH3)2 NH (CH3)2 NH, (CH3)3 N : (CH3)3 N pairs and two unlike molecules of every pair CH3NH2: (CH3)2 NH , CH3NH2: (CH3)N and (CH3)2 NH : (CH3)3N pairs as a function of separation r, of two molecules were calculated by using the Gaussian 2003 software MP2/6-311++G(d,p) method for NH3:NH3, CH3NH2: CH3NH2 , (CH3)2 NH (CH3)2 NH, (CH3)3 N : (CH3)3 N ,CH3NH2: (CH3)2 NH ,CH3NH2: (CH3)N and (CH3)2 NH : (CH3)3N.Then, the interaction energies between two considered molecules , Eint(r) as a function of separation r , were evaluated by means of the following equation : U(r) E = …(11) where Ee( ) refers to Ee(r) at a long separation , while the Eint(r) ≃ 0.\r\nWe assume that Eint coincides with the Lennard – Jones potential, U(r), in equation (2).\r\nThe calculated values of Ee(r) and Eint(r) ≡ U(r) for each of the studied systems (NH3:NH3, CH3NH2: CH3NH2, (CH3)2 NH (CH3)2 NH, (CH3)3 N : (CH3)3 N, CH3NH2: (CH3)2 NH, CH3NH2:, (CH3)N and (CH3)2 NH : (CH3)3N pairs) are gathered in tables 1,3,5,7,9,11 and 13 and ploted in Fig. 2-8.\r\nIn addition, the second virial coefficient for each gas- pair was calculated upon equation (10) and the resultant values are given in Tables 2,4,6,8,10,12 and 14. In order to calculate equation (2) and then integral (10), we desine two programs by using matlab 2012 software.\r\n \r\nThe values of Eint(r) wite respect two the NH3:NH3 pair (Table 1) were represented by an equation like eqn. (2) with σ = 5.42 Å and ε = 189 k(k represents the Boltsmann constant). Then, by means of these values and equation (10), we estimated the values of B at 300, 350, 400, 450 and 500K . that are comparable with those can be found in the literature (Atkins, 1960) The procedure was repeated for CH3NH2: CH3NH2, \r\n(CH3)2 NH : (CH3)2 NH, (CH3)3 N : (CH3)3 N, CH3NH2: (CH3)2 NH, CH3NH2:, (CH3)N and (CH3)2 NH : (CH3)3N systems at 300, 350, 400, 450 and 500 K and the obtained results are given in Tables 3-14. \r\nGenerally, it may be concluded whatever the smaller size of gas molecules and the higher temperature, the agreement between the experimental results and the calculated values is better. (Baghernejad, et al., 2013).\r\n \r\n \r\n','M. Baghernejad , M. Aghaie, K. Zare and H. Aghaie (2014). Estimating the Second virial Coefficients of some Real Gases NH3: NH3, CH3NH2: CH3NH2, (CH3)2 NH : (CH3)2 NH, (CH3)3 N : (CH3)3 N, CH3NH2: (CH3)2 NH, CH3NH2:, (CH3)N and (CH3)2 NH : (CH3)3N pairs and related Thermodynamic aspects. Biological Forum – An International Journal 6(2): 157-168.'),(4757,'120','The Comparison of Coping Styles with Anxiety in Men and Women Elite Karate','Behnam Maleki, Soleiman Bagheri, Javad Aghazadeh, Shahriar Parikhani, Akbar Aran Ardabili and Sohrab Isazadeh\r\n','28 BEHNAM MALEKI @ HAMID.pdf','',1,'Stress is one of the most important reasons of appearing bodily and psychic disorders. Regarding the importance of coping against stress in athletes operation, this research determines the coping styles against stress among the men and women elite karate in Alborz. In the comparison study, forty-one men elite karate and twenty-five women elite karate were selected by accessible sampling. To determine the coping styles against stress, it was used Andler and Parker questionnaire (1990). For analyzing data, it was used the descriptive statistics and khido test in a good level (α < 0/05). The results showed that 17/5% of men and 16% of women have used the coping style against the avoidance stress. 36/3 % of men and 18% of women have used the emotion-focused style and 46/2% of men and 66% of women have used the problem-focused style. According to the criteria khido (x2 = 5/77) with meaningful level (p = 0/04), there are a meaningful disorder between coping style against stress in women and men elite karate. Regarding the prevailing style in two groups, the coping style is problem- focused and it is necessary for the tutors to teach students how to evaluate and find the problem in facing with stressful situation. Tutors should also reinforce students\' social dexterity to provide the coping means against stress factor and escaping from the stressful factor.','Problem - focused style, emotion- focused style, avoidance style, elite karate.','The results showed that there is a meaningful difference in coping styles against the stress of men and women karate. The men and women karate are mostly equal in the use of avoidance style (17/5% and 16% respectively) but the women karate more use the problem-focused coping than men karate players (66% in contrast with 46/3%). On the contrary, the men karate uses emotion-focused coping than women karate (36/3% in contrast with 18%). These findings reported that there is not a meaningful difference in women and men athletes (Balighi, 1386; Kent; Gaudreau, Malika and Thierry, 2005). The choice of coping style depends on different factors, which one of them is gender kind. On the other side, coping theoretical literature put emphasis on the relation of coping style with personal characteristics (Rout and Kohen, 1986; Allen, Greenlees and Jones, 2011). This sport course is one of the most effectual factors choosing the special coping style. However, it is not clear that these differences are in relationship with gender difference or personal characteristics. Sport course and other variables such as skill level, people ability and culture and further researches achieve the persuading reasons on difference with men and women coping styles. However, the most important finding of the research is problem-focused style that was the predominant coping style with stressful factors in both women and men karate groups. Some of the findings of researches have shown that the women more use the emotion-focused coping and men use more use the problem focused style (Scalant, 1991; Anshel, 1998; Pensggered, 2003) which is indirect. It is probable that the reason of these contradictories is the use of different tools, sport courses and different skill levels of athletes. On the other sides, the research findings are not unilateral with many results of the researches such as Liging and Liyoh: (2008), Ramazaninejad (2011), Anshell (200). It seems that the coping style against stress Is successful in relation to the operation. The results of Gaudreau (2002) shows that the golfers who used the problem-focused style had the most successful operation. \r\n \r\n Maleki, Bagheri, Aghazadeh, Parikhani, Ardabili and Isazadeh 172\r\n \r\nOn the contrary, the golfers who used the avoidance style had the weakest operation. Furthermore, many athletes who applied avoidance coping style had reported the most negative emotions. Dell (200) Halt, Hoog (2003) and Gerard (1995) have shown that the problem- focused styles are suitable in personal courses. They have showed that the emotion-focused coping is along with reducing operation (quoting Nicholas, 2006). As the karate operation is more successful than the other sport courses, we can find that having the problem-focused style is one of the most successful factors in facing with stressful conditions. On the other words, Iranian karate concentrates on successful situations than not facing with them. They also concentrate on their operation and their duties. Therefore, if the karate could not solve their problem through problem-focused style, then they solve their problem by emotion-focused style. The choice of avoidance style is on the last preferences in among the karate. According to the coping theoretical models against the stress (Endler and Paker,1990), the problem-focused coping is the best way for managing the conditions. Then it seems that regarding the nature of karate courses, cognitive evaluations and concentration on the issue would be the most beneficial factor for karate operation in stressful conditions. Generally, the results show that the gender kind is as one of the most effectual factors in choosing the coping styles against the stress. Furthermore, the karate aim and the best results achievement in coping against the problem-focused stress show that the novice players can benefit from the experienced players. Furthermore, the experienced karate can guide the novice karate in choosing the coping style. In addition, it is good to make familiar with the other individual sport courses\' tutors especially epic techniques with the coping style against the stress in order to inform the athletes the ineffectiveness of other coping styles than problem- focused style. \r\n','Stress is one of the most important reasons of appearing bodily and psychic disorders especially in athletes. Prevalence of stressful factors such as psychic or bodily mistake commission, pain experiencing, cheating observation or competitor success, referee penalty and tutor reprimand (Besharat, 1383) is unavoidable in order to preserve athlete health and athletics success. \r\nCoping processes are activities, cognitive actions and individual behavior for managing stress. The researchers believe that coping is equivalent with intelligence quest in facing with stressful factors (Stone et al., 1992). The researchers also classified the coping strategy in different forms. According to the copying process orientation, one of the general classifications divide the coping strategies to perception problem , individual feeling, problem- focused coping and emotion - focused coping (Zazarus and Folkman, 1984). Problem- focused coping called task- focused coping (Endler and Parker, 1990). \r\nTo adjust the stressful factors and to achieve the aim, a person directly copes with stressful situation. Therefore, problem - focused coping is process-oriented and it is goal achievement by changing the relationship between individual and environment. Problem- focused coping examples are as follows: describing the stress and external obstacles, changing goals, finding the substitution procedures in the goals achievement, searching the social support, active avoidance of stressful factors through interval creation and having speech final nature (Krohne Hindel (1988); Auerback (1992), in order to adjust the stressful factors and achieve the goals in emotion- focused coping , a person regulate the related cases with stressful factors (Lazarus and Folk man, 1984). Regarding the stressful factors and evaluating interpretation, the emotion-focused coping style effects on the individual spirit. Therefore, the emotion- focused coping is dealing with important change of stressful factor. \r\nIn order to answer the replacement, an athlete may say: \" I\'m happy that the tutor replaced me; I was too tired \"or I could not continue playing game because of severe pain) (Sarafino 1994). Endler and parker (1990) believe that emotion- focused coping is a kind of personal orientation. (Like excitement answers, denying and specter reactions). If an athlete is puzzled in competition after a physical faults, positive statement (like continue or concentrate) incarnation of doing successful technique and tranquility reduce intervention thoughts. Then they facilitate coping process. Urbakh (1996) believes that the coping result would be better if: A) in checking situations, problem- focused coping is on priority and B) in non-checking situation, problem- focused coping is used. The results of most available researchers have shown the problem focused style for coping with stress among the athletes. As an example, Lijing and Liuhe (2008) showed that 61/07 percent of professional basketball players had problem-focused style and 38/93 percent had avoidance style. Ramazani Nejad (2011) showed that the coping with problem- focused stress is more common that coping with emotion- focused stress among the national athletes of individual courses in Iran. Furthermore, the results of Gaudream et al., study (2002) shows that the golfers who used the problem-focused style had the most successful operation. \r\n In the other classifications, Roth and Cohen (1986) have classified this styles to the approach and avoidance coping. The main feature of encountering coping style is facing with stressful factors in order to improve the results. Some of these coping styles include starting, direct operation, increasing individual efforts in the use of pre-designed coping strategies. The main feature of avoidance coping style is being far from the stressful factors. some examples of this style includes dissembling , not paying attention, cognition interlude creation, help- seeking from the others and paying attention to the other duties, Endler and Parker (1990). The use of these methods causes the improvement of athlete operations in many sports situations. Some groups of researchers showed the use of encountering coping style in among the different sport courses of athletes. However, the other group believe that the avoidance coping is more common (green and Weinberg 2001, Gan 2005 Nicholas, Holt, polman and James 2006, Ghahramani, Beshearat and Farsi 2013). Some of the researchers have reported the use of both the avoidance and encountering methods (Richard, Neil and Jain 2006, Balighi 1386). Tendency to use a special style depends on the special characteristics of athletes. Among the different sports, karate course is a good example of a sport competition with high levels of temporal- spatial limitations that needs high-speed reactions (Mory, Ohtani and Imanaka 2002). Due to available limitations, different style of karate tolerates psychic pressures. As the coping style or stress is in direct connection with successful operation, so it is necessary to investigate about the stress style in elite karate players for guiding the novice players. It is probable that the differences in these characteristics is due to the gender kind in the use of this style which has often be considered .then, the aim of this researcher is to determine and to compare the common coping style against the stress in among the men and women karate players in Alborz.\r\nMETHODOLOGY\r\nThe comparison kind of research and the research participants were sixty-six elite karats (41 men and 25 women) who had black belt don one. At least all of them were participated in national team more than one time and all of them were selected by accessible sampling. To determine the coping style with stress, it was used the Endeler and parker (1990) questionnaire. The perpetuity and description of this questionnaire has been reported more than 8% in different researches. In this research the α - Cronbakh coefficient is about (α = 0/72). It has been reported that avoidance style is (α = 0/63), problem - focused style (α = 0/84) and emotion- focused style is α = 0/7.\r\nFor analyzing the data, it was used the khido test in meaningful level (α <0/01)\r\nFINDINGS\r\nThe research participants were 66 karate (41men and 25women) with the mean age of (women: 5/03 +19/36 and men: 4/22+2/22) in among the participators, forty two of them (28 men and 14 women) were from the controlled styles, fifteen people of them (8 men and 7 women) and also nine people of them (5 men and 4 women) were from the free styles.\r\nAccording to the information of table 1 and Table 2, it can be viewed that the 17/05% of men karate were from the coping style with the stress of avoidance style, 36/3% emotion-focused style and 46/3% problem-focused style which in comparison with women karate, there were 16% avoidance style, 18% emotion-focused style and 66% problem-focused style. The test khido (x = 5/77) also showed that there is a meaningful difference level (α = 0/04) between coping styles with the stress of men and women karate.\r\n','Behnam Maleki, Soleiman Bagheri, Javad Aghazadeh, Shahriar Parikhani, Akbar Aran Ardabili and Sohrab Isazadeh (2014).The Comparison of Coping Styles with Anxiety in Men and Women Elite Karate. Biological Forum – An International Journal 6(2): 169-173. \r\n'),(4758,'120','The Relationship between Empowerment and Organizational Learning of Physical Education Teachers','Hamid Amini*, Mohsen Rahmanian*, Khadije Sadeghifar**, Moslem Bay*, Nader Afravi and Mahdi Sedaghat \r\n','37 HAMID AMINI.pdf','',1,'The purpose of this research was to evaluate the relationship between empowerment with organizational learning of physical education teachers. The research method was correlational. Spritz empowerment questionnaire (α = 0.883) and Nief organizational learning questionnaire (α = 0.843) and a demographic questionnaire, were used to collect data. Validity was confirmed by 12 persons of university professors and reliability was analyzed through initial sample consisted of 45 questionnaires. The population of this research was 512 physical education teachers, of these 220 individuals were selected randomly according to the Morgan table. Statistical method was descriptive and inferential (multivariate regression). The results showed that, there is a very strong and positive relationship between empowerment and organizational learning of physical education teachers. Also, the results of this research showed that, the main prodictors of organizational learning were the sense of effectiveness (β = 0.410), the sense of competency (β = 0.261) and the sense of significance (β = 0.197) respectively. The relationships indicated that with increasing each of empowerment indicators, organizational learning will increase. On this basis, increasing the employees\' competence, believe in their ability and capability, ability to influence on strategic outcomes, personal feelings about the right to choose and the sense of trust will increase the organizational learning of physical education teachers.','Empowerment, learner organization, teachers','The purpose of this study was to evaluate the relationship between empowerment and organizational learning of physical education teachers. Results showed that there is a strong and significant relationship between empowerment factors and organizational learning of physical education teachers. These findings are consistent with results of Zare (1385), Nourozi (1384) chufy (1385), Spritz (1997), Ozarali (2003), and Bowen (2006). Zare (1385) obtained a significant correlation in a study of psychological empowerment factors and entrepreneurship in the physical education organization in which the highest ratings were related to the sense of competency, the sense of self-determination and finally the sense of trust. \r\n \r\n\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\n Amini, Rahmanian, Sadeghifar, Bay, Afravi and Sedaghat 222\r\n \r\nNourozi (1385) in an evaluation of the relationship between psychological empowerment and organizational performance Mellat bank branches of Tehran, concluded that there is a significant relationship between the sense of trust in colleagues and efficiency of branches and obtained correlation coefficient indicates the direct relationship between them. In general, it can be concluded that the branches in which psychological empowerment factors (sense of significance, competency, effectiveness, having choices, trust) had higher average were more efficient.\r\nDoting et al. (2003) during research on psychological empowerment in the workplace investigated the relationship between empowerment psychological factors and emotional and behavioral responses of employees. They stated that empowerment psychological factors significantly associated with job satisfaction and organizational commitment. Also, a significant correlation was observed between psychological empowerment and employees\' performance.\r\nChufy (1385) studied the relationship between empowerment of employees and organizational learning in national distribution of petroleum products in a research and concluded that there is a significant and positive relationship between employees\' empowerment and organizational learning. Based on the present results, it is clear that whatever the sense of trust increases and the employees in the organization be assured that they will be treated fairly and equally in fair view, the organizational learning will increase. Formidable employees believe that, finally no damage will come to them as a result of the trust. They were more research-oriented, adaptable, self-esteem and eager to learn. Also, whatever the sense of self-determination and having choices increases and the employees in the organization have more freedom for implementation and promotion of activities related to their job, their organizational learning will increase. Whatever the employees have more right to choose in decisions about work methods and level of efforts, this causes learning and interest in the activity and attempts to deal with adverse work situations. Whatever the sense of significance among employees increases and they accord more value to the activities that they do and their mental aspirations and standards be more fit with what they do, their learning in the organization will increase. Employees who have the sense of effectiveness try to retain their dominance over what they see and enhance their learning in the workplace, instead of having reactive response to the environment to be effective in programs. Finally, whatever the sense of competency increases and the employees in the organization have capability and expertise to do successful works, the organizational learning will increase. The sense of competency causes the effort, compliance, high expectations, excellent performance and resistance toward critical conditions for employees in the workplace and as a result, their organizational learning will increase. Also, employees\' belief to their capacity leads to increasing the organizational learning in their workplace. The results showed that, emotional factors of influence, the sense of competency and the sense of significance have a direct impact on organizational learning. Education managers in general and administrative experts of Physical Education in particular should have more attention to these factors to transform their organization into a learner organization and try to flourish these factors in the organization\'s employees. This will be possible through holding the educational classes, special attention to the creativity and innovation of employees, respecting and encouraging them, delegation of authority and assignment of tasks, giving autonomy and freedom of action to employees, team formation and development of participatory management.\r\n','In today\'s business environment, changes occur at rapid strides. Organizations in competition arenas in the global business environment are required to have a favorable reaction to the constant change or be disappeared. Business world, changes from the dominance of investment in knowledge supremacy. An organization should develop its human resources and should increase its amount of information and knowledge in order to outreach the other organizations. Employees and their knowledge are a valuable resource for the organization. Hence, organizational learning and knowledge production have been taken into consideration in recent years (Paajanen & Kantola, 2008). Many organizations have detected the solution in increasing organizational learning and empowerment programs and they have tried to overcome internal and external obstacles and create the context for fostering employees\' empowerment by implementation of these programs along with modifying variables affecting individuals\' feel with use of learning and individual empowerment (Zare, 1385). In the present era, the organizations in which employees strive to improve their capabilities are successful and the manager\'s duty is providing suitable conditions for this educational process. Organizational learning is a dynamic process that enables organizations to quickly adapt to changes. This process involves the production of new knowledge, skills and behaviors and includes specific organizational behavior which is applied in a learner organization. In such organizations, all of the learning conditions are provided for the members and individuals attempt continuously to apply what they have learned (Zhang et al, 2009). The concept of organizational learning which was dramatically considered since 1990 by many academic and industrial centers is the result of two main factors: \r\n1. The rapidly changes in the nature of the world in which we live. \r\n2. The competitive environment in which organizations operate. The key point is that, how they should learn and generate new knowledge. Learning requires that individuals apply the knowledge in their behavior which they gained in their organization. \r\n \r\n\r\n \r\n Amini, Rahmanian, Sadeghifar, Bay, Afravi and Sedaghat 219\r\n \r\nLearning has three stages: Recognition (learning new concepts), behavior (developing new skills and abilities) and function (doing work, actually). According to Garvin, organizations need five skills to use new ideas in improving organizational performance to turn them into practical applications. These are: Problem solving, gaining experience, learning from their experience and history, learning from others and transmission or run. The term of organizational learning apparently referring to individual learning in the organization, but organizational learning refers to the group or level of organizational learning. Individual learning is done through research, interviews, knowledge, experience, training, and development of effective mental models in mind, but organizational learning occurs when group learns to interact, share knowledge and collectively act, so that the combined capacity of group increases and gain the ability to understand and do effective actions (Bennet & Bennet, 2008). Dimensions of organizational learning from the Nief viewpoint (2001) include: Shared outlook: The importance of a shared outlook is for becoming a learner organization: First, a shared outlook provides the focus and energy for learning. Second, the outlook leads people into action. Third, the shared outlook creates the final goal and encourages the risk taking and innovation. Fourth, values and common meanings are important in determining the type of knowledge that is stored and transmitted (Marquard, 2002).\r\nOrganizational learning culture: When members of a community, organization or group endeavor to adapt to the external environment and internal integration problems, unconsciously they have attempted to learning. Because in term of theorizing, learning and problem solving are not only different but also it can be said that different viewpoints have a same basic process.\r\nGroup work and learning: In group work and learning, the emphasis is on the importance of alignment in forces and personnel of the organization. Collective learning is a process by which the capacity of members has been developed and aligned in a manner in that the results were desired (Senge, 1990).\r\nKnowledge sharing, transmission and distribution of knowledge, organizational and technological transmission of data covers information and knowledge. The capacity of an organization to transfer knowledge represents the transfer ability and sharing power, which is also the prerequisite for success. Knowledge needs to be carefully and rapidly distributed throughout the organization or company fields (Marquard, 2002).\r\nSystemic thinking: Systems thinking means using a systematic approach to analyzing and considering the impact of corporate governance and organizational factors on each other. \r\nWith holistic thinking, business activities, and in general, all other human endeavors are systems. They are limited by the interrelated built-in activities. These activities usually require years of time to complete their effect on each other. Since we are a part of this series, we faced additional difficulties to understand the pattern of the change (Senge, 1990).\r\nParticipative leadership: The outcome of participative leadership is a sense of partnership in employees. The result of this effort is that employees feel that they are needed and have a useful existence. Research has proven that participation reduces resistance to change, increases the organizational commitment and decreases the psychological pressure.\r\nDevelopment of employees\' competencies: Competence is a set of knowledge, skills and measurable and visible behaviors which are contributed to the success of a job or a post. For proper management of human resources, the level of knowledge, information, skills and abilities should be improved and the competence should be created. Human resources development can\'t be achieved with high education, but also human resources should act in a planned and systematic practice.\r\nEmpowerment means to empower the employees, that will help them to reinforce their sense of confidence and overcome their powerlessness or helplessness feeling and give them strength and motivation to carry out their activities. It includes five dimensions, the sense of significance, the sense of competency, the sense of self-determination, the sense of trust and the sense of having impact. In empowerment, more self-determination and autonomy and decision-making responsibility are assigned to the employee. In other words, vertical surcharge and other similar methods to increase the employees\' freedom of action are called Empowerment (Huczynski & Buchanan, 2001). According to the definitions and active presence of the organization in the field of competition, technology and the creation of new jobs and the need for multi-skilled employees, make their empowering inevitable. Empowerment is a novel and effective technique for improving productivity in organizations by taking advantage of power in employees. Employees have occult power through their knowledge, experience and motivation and empowerment is releasing this power. This technique provides potential capacities to exploit human abilities and in a healthy organizational environment suggests a balanced approach for applying complete control by management and complete freedom of employees. Through empowerment programs, delegated operational capacities, increasing responsibility and autonomy in decision-making and sense of self-efficacy will increase and consequently organizational productivity and efficiency also will rise.\r\n \r\n \r\n\r\n\r\n\r\n Amini, Rahmanian, Sadeghifar, Bay, Afravi and Sedaghat 220\r\n \r\nThe main feature of empowerment is aligning the individual and organizational goals. In the empowerment, employees are not only need authority, but also they should have adequate training and financial credit and basic information to be accountable for their decisions (Tubbs & Moss, 2000). Some others have defined empowerment as a form of decentralization which involves delegating authority of fundamental decisions to subordinates. Empowerment enables employees to participate in management and it is larger than restraint (Lussier, 2002).\r\nCrossan (2003) found that organizational learning improves organizational efficiency. This improvement is evaluable by customers (Crossan, 2003). Real et al. (2006) found that information technology acts as an enabler and engendering for organizational learning and influences the organization\'s specific and technological capabilities. The product is better business performance (Real, 2006). Abdolmaleki (1381) said that there is a high correlation coefficient between organizational learning and the rate of change and innovation in organizations (Abdolmaleki, 1381). Feterman concluded that empowerment evaluation consists of three steps: a) The stability of mission and purpose, b) Roots, c) Planning for the future. He stated that empowerment evaluation helps creating a learning culture in the organization or community group (Feterman, 2005). Tippins and Suhi found that there is a significant relationship between organizational learning and organizational performance framework (Tippins, 2003). Nourozi in investigating the relationship between psychological factors of empowering of the employees and organizational performance in Mellat bank branches concluded that there is a significant and direct relationship between them. In general, it can be concluded that the branches which had a higher average in psychological factors (sense of significance, competency, effectiveness, having a choice and trust) had higher efficiency and vice versa (Nourozi, 1384). Chufy stated that there is a significant relationship between employees\' empowerment and organizational learning. He also noted that the management in which the sense of competency, having choice, effectiveness, significance and trust is higher among the employees, they have more organizational learning. Accordingly, increasing competencies in employees, belief in their power and ability to influence the strategic outcome, individual feels for making choices and the sense of trust will increase the organizational learning (chufy, 1385). It should be recognized that organizations are exposed to extensive and rapid environmental changes as a collection of individuals and human groups and over the time, they will acquire lessons in their actions and activities. In other words, organizations must have the ability to learn as individuals. \r\nThus, the issue of organizational learning concentrates on new theories of organization and management, and it is concluded that a major challenge in different levels of management increases the organizational learning. Education organization which is the most important educational institutions in the country, like other organizations and government agencies must provide conditions in the workplace and the organization in order to increasing productivity and improve organizational performance, in that teachers, especially teachers of physical education who are directly deal with physical education students feel the necessary empowering and like other organizations requires continuous learning at all work levels of the organization in order to achieve organizational goals. Accordingly, in order to cope with increasing, fast, complex and uncertain changes in the environment and explore potential opportunities in the field of sports, the organizations need creative, innovative and empowered teachers with the ability to explore and teach the new opportunities. The nature of innovation needs specific and different conditions. Of course, having a competitive advantage depends on the organization\'s attributes, but certainly employees of each organization and their knowledge, play a critical role in this pathway. Therefore, identifying the appropriate attributes to attract and develop the employees is the first and most essential step on the issue of education organization. Due to this necessity, the researcher of this study investigated the relationship between empowerment and organizational learning of Tehran province\'s physical education teachers.\r\nRESEARCH METHODS\r\nThe present study is correlational descriptive and the data was collected in fieldwork way. In this study, variables of significance, effectiveness, competence, self-determination and trust, organizational learning and predictive variables are the criterion variables. The population of the study includes all teachers of physical education in Tehran province (n = 512). Research sample was selected by using Morgan table and simple random sampling (n = 220).\r\nMeasurement tools: Two questionnaires were used in this study. Spritz empowerment questionnaire was used to measure the empowerment which was standardized by Abdullahi in 1384. Nief organizational learning questionnaire was used to measure the organizational learning. The scale of both questionnaires is Likert-type. In this study, validity of the questionnaires was approved by using the sport and governmental experts\' opinions and reliability of the questionnaires obtained respectively 0.88 and 0.84 through Cronbach\'s alpha coefficient.\r\n \r\n\r\n Amini, Rahmanian, Sadeghifar, Bay, Afravi and Sedaghat 221\r\n \r\nRESULTS AND RESEARCH FINDINGS\r\nPearson\'s correlation test results showed that there is a significant and positive relationship between organizational empowerment subscales (sense of significant, effectiveness, self-determination, trust and competency) and organizational learning of physical education teachers. The direction of relationships show that with increasing each empowerment attributes, organizational learning will increase (Table 1). \r\nIn order to determine the effect of each predictor variable on the criterion variable, the regression analysis was performed. Therefore, all the predictor variables selected by the stepwise method and were used in a regression command to obtain the final equation. Table 2 shows the multivariate regression model to explain organizational learning.\r\nThe results of the above table show that the sense of effectiveness (P = 0.000, T = 5.639) effects on respondents\' organizational learning more than other variables. Effect direction of this variable is positive and direct and shows that with increasing the respondents\' sense of effectiveness organizational learning will also increase. After the sense of effectiveness, sense of competency (P = 0.001, T = 3.323) has a moderate effect on organizational learning. The third entered variable into the model is sense of significance (P = 0.015, T = 2.221) and the relationship of this variable is direct with respondents\' organizational learning. Two components including the sense of self-determination and trust are qualified by these terms. The standardized β coefficient indicates that the components of sense of effectiveness (β = 0.410), the sense of competency (β = 0.261) and the sense of significance (β = 0.197) are the most important predictors of organizational learning. According to test results, null hypothesis is rejected and the default assuming is confirmed.\r\n','Hamid Amini*, Mohsen Rahmanian*, Khadije Sadeghifar**, Moslem Bay*, Nader Afravi and Mahdi Sedaghat (2014). The Relationship between Empowerment and Organizational Learning of Physical Education Teachers. Biological Forum – An International Journal 6(2): 218-223. \r\n '),(4759,'120','The Comparison of Simple and Choice Reaction time in the Elite Karateka of Controlling, Semi-controlled and Free Styles','Behnam Maleki, Seyyed Ahmad Mousavi, Javad Aghazadeh, Shahriar Parikhani, Akbar Aran Ardabili and Sohrab Isazadeh','38 BEHNAM MALEKI @ HAMID.pdf','',1,'Reaction time is one of the effective factors in sports; therefore the purpose of this study is to compare simple and choice reaction time in the elite karateka of controlling, semi-controlled and free styles of Alborz Province. The research is of causal-comparative type and 60 elite karateka of controlling, semi-controlled and free styles were selected by using convenience sampling and they were replaced in three groups. Data collection tools were the devices of measuring the reaction time of hand. For data analysis, analysis of variance and LSD post hoc tests were used at a significance level α<0/01.\r\nThe results show that the simple reaction time and choice reaction time in the elite karateka of controlling, semi-controlled and free styles are significantly lower. This matter attracts the attention of coaches of various styles of karate to the type of exercises performed in controlling style.\r\n','simple reaction time, choice reaction time, controlling style, semi-controlled style and free style','The results show that the simple reaction time and choice reaction time in the elite karateka of controlling, semi-controlled and free styles are significantly lower. In previous studies, researchers have found that elite karateka in comparison to amateur karateka have less simple and choice reaction time and higher levels of predictive power and speed of visual perception (Layton, 1991 and 1993, Kim et al, 1998; Mory, Ohtani and Imanaka, 2002), but in these studies there was no difference in RT of elite Karateka that they are inconsistent with the findings of this study. The subjects in this study are separately from elite Karateka of different styles, while in the previous studies the subjects usually were selected from a particular style and it is possible that different training programs in different styles of karate are difference factor of simple and choice reaction time in the elite karateka of this study. As the type and intensity of exercise have influence on physiological effects caused by the activity, psychological effects of activities also vary with the change of intensity and type of training (Naimikiya, 1385). Hence, it is possible that RT, which is a perceptual- motional factor, changes as a result of performing various exercises in long term. Considering the various styles of karate and that the controlling karate is a good example of an athletic competition, with high levels of space - time limitations that require fast reaction (Mory, Ohtani and Imanaka, 2002) and karateka of different styles practice blasting techniques and saccadic movements periodically (exercise and rest intervals) (Ravier, 2009). Thus, anaerobic metabolism is most important source of energy involved in these exercises (Imamura et al, 1999) that it is possible that the reason of high perceptual- motional abilities in karateka of different styles is the exercises with these metabolisms. Furthermore, based on specific learning theory, simulation of exercise condition with race condition is a principle of professional exercises (Schmidt & Lee, 2005), therefore the coaches of controlling styles of karate should apply the exercises in which the athlete is always involved in fast reactions (just like what happens in a controlled karate competition), this reflexive exercises, in long term will probably make the athlete more efficient at pre-motor reaction time which indicates the central processes involved in producing a response, such as forecasting and decision making. Also it can influence on motor stage of reaction time which indicates the muscular activity before the actual move. So athletes of controlling styles, who possibly perform reactional exercises, are forced repeatedly to predict and perform muscular activity, that in long time this will lead to correct choices and improvement of reaction time. \r\nFinally, as should state that results of the this study are inconsistent with the findings of De Brito and Silva (2011) who have shown that athletes with more years of exercise and experience require more time to respond to stimuli, because in this study no comparison has been made between the beginner and elite karateka, but considering that the assumptions of study is that the elite karateka have better reaction time than the beginner karateka, the results of this study are inconsistent with the findings of De Brito. It should be noted that in the study of De Brito, the number of the errors of elite karateka were lower than the amateur karateka and in addition, the average age of the elite karateka in the study of De Brito was higher than the mean age of the karateka of our study. The reason of the high reaction time of karateka in the study of De Brito was their emphasis on the precision, which is justifiable according to the exchange low of the speed and accuracy that as the speed increases the speed decreases (Schmidt & Lee, 2005). The reaction time is also associated with age, which means that it increases during puberty and becomes highly changing and in young adults it gets improved and gradually gets slower with increasing of the age (Der and Deary, 2006). Considering that the success in controlling styles requires explosive reactions at the appropriate time, the coaches of this style should adjust their exercises in way that karateka require timely reactions during the exercises and due to the fact that the athlete is constantly involved in the process of preparation of motion and anticipation, this type of exercises in the long run will improve the reaction time of individual which attracts more attention of coaches and karateka of other styles to itself.\r\n','Among the various sports, karate is a good example of an athletic competition, with high levels of space - time limitations that require fast reaction (Mory, Ohtani and Imanaka, 2002) and karateka of different styles practice blasting techniques and saccadic movements that need quick response in order to gain success (Ravier, 2009). So fast processing of information and making decisions about what to do is one of the important and vital factors in the skilled performance of rapid movements and the reaction time as an indicator of the speed of decision making shows the speed of responsiveness of individual to stimuli (Schmidt and Lee 2005). In general, the time interval between stimuli presentation up to the commencement of the reaction is called the reaction time which has a variety of different situations. Such as when experimenter uses only one mark and only wants one answer (simple reaction time, SRT) or when the experimenter presents more than one sign that each sign requires a specific response (choice reaction time, CRT). Simple reaction time is very quick but with the addition of more possibility of answers, the delay of reaction time increases. According to Hick\'s Law with the increase in the number of possible choices, the reaction time increases logarithmically (Schmidt & Lee, 2005). \r\nMany individual characteristics and environmental factors such as severity and type of stimulus, the level of excitation, physical activity and exercise, gender, and age are factors that influence reaction time (Kosinski, 2006) which have contained several studies. Among these factors, the factor of exercise has attracted more attention. Although most of us know that reaction time is influenced by genetics rather than the exercise, but athletes can improve the reaction time by exercises that lead to correct choices. So sport and exercise are one of the factors which affect the reaction time and the improvement of skill levels could decrease the reaction time. Several studies conducted in this area also prove this (Davranche, Burle, Audiffren, and Hasbroucq, 2006; Charu, Rini and Arun, 2008; Zwierko, Wielslaw and Damian, 2010; Van Biesen et al, 2010; Foroughi Pour et al., 2013). Also the changes of reaction time under the exercises of various sports have been studied by some researchers. For example, De Quel et al., (2008) showed the superiority of reaction time of fencers of the Spanish national team to karateka of Spanish national team or Foroughi Pour et al., (2013) did not find any significant difference in reaction time of participants in tennis and volleyball trainings. \r\n \r\n\r\n\r\n\r\n \r\n Maleki, Mousavi, Aghazadeh, Parikhani, Ardabili and Isazadeh 225 \r\nBut some researches have also focused solely on examination of reaction time in karate, like Rasch et al., (1963) who compared simple reaction time in experienced karateka of one style and came to the conclusion that there is no significant difference in simple reaction time of experienced karateka. Layton (1991) studied the reaction time for arm and leg kicks in karateka of Shotokan style and demonstrated that the reaction time for a fist kick in response to an auditory stimulus is much faster in professional karatake as compared to the amateur karateka. Also Layton (1993) by examining the speed of performing technique and age in karateka of Shotokan style concluded that there is no significant difference in reaction time of professional karateka for performing techniques. Kim et al (1998) compared the speed of visual perception in karateka with different skill levels and found that there are significant differences in perceptual judgments of professional karateka rather than karatake with lower levels of skill. Mori and colleagues (2002) in a study showed that there is a significant difference in choice reaction time of high level and low level karateka and high level karatake gain higher scores in their skills of predicting in accordance with target area in an attack to opponent.\r\nDe Brito and Silva (2011) by studying the reaction time of Portuguese karateka concluded that there are no significant differences in the simple reaction time among karateka with different skill levels, but the choice reaction time of expertise karateka was significantly more than low level karateka but their number of errors was less. Considering that the studies have shown that exercise and skill acquisition in sports can play role in improvement of the reaction time and since in none of the conducted researches the reaction time of elite karateka of different styles have not been compared with each other, in this study the researcher attempts to find the effects of different types of long-term exercise in a sport field on reaction time by comparing the reaction time of karateka of different styles of karate. Therefore the purpose of this study is to compare simple and choice reaction time in the elite karateka of controlling, semi-controlled and free styles of Alborz Province.\r\nRESEARCH METHODOLOGY\r\nThe research is of causal-comparative type and 60 elite karateka of controlling, semi-controlled and free styles(20 karateka of controlling style, 20 karateka of semi-controlled style and 20 karateka of free style)with black belt Dan one and higher, who had been at least one time in the National team and they were selected by using convenience sampling. Data collection tools were the devices of measuring the reaction time of hand (manufactured by Iranian company of Satrap). The research method was in this way that the subjects put their hands on the buttons of the device that by the lighting of one of red, yellow and blue lights that were placed on the screen in front of the subjects, they pressed the button related to the lights and the lights were turned off and choice reaction time was recorded for the subject. In simple reaction time, only one button and one light were applied that by lighting of the light the subject pressed the related button until the light was turned off and choice reaction time was recorded for him. For data analysis, analysis of variance at a significance level of α <0/01 was used.\r\nRESEARCH FINDINGS\r\nParticipants of the study were 60 elite karateka of three styles with an average age (22±5 karateka of controlling style, 20±4 karateka of semi-controlled style and 23±5 karateka of free style). \r\nAmong the participants 6 karateka of controlling style, 9 karateka of semi-controlled style and 12 karateka of free style had the experience of being in national team more than three times and 7 karateka of controlling style, 6 karateka of semi-controlled style and 5 karateka of free style had the experience of being in national team for two times and 7 karateka of controlling style, 5 karateka of semi-controlled style and 3 karateka of free style had the experience of being in national team only once. According to the results shown in Table 1 and considering the significance level of the test error, there is significant difference between karateka of controlling, semi-controlled and free styles in the average of SRT and CRT. The mean differences between SRT and CRT in terms of the studied groups are given in Table 2.\r\nAccording to results in Table 2, the mean of SRT in karateka of free style is more than karateka of controlling and semi-controlled style and the lowest mean of the SRT is related to controlling group. Also the mean of CRT in karateka of semi-controlled style is more than karateka of controlling and free style and the lowest mean of the CRT is related to controlling group\r\n','Behnam Maleki, Seyyed Ahmad Mousavi, Javad Aghazadeh, Shahriar Parikhani, Akbar Aran Ardabili and Sohrab Isazadeh (2014). The Comparison of Simple and Choice Reaction time in the Elite Karateka of Controlling, Semi-controlled and Free Styles. Biological Forum – An International Journal 6(2): 224-227.'),(4760,'120','Association of Tumor Necrosis factor-alpha with Anthropometrical indexes in obese individuals','Zahedmanesh Forouzan, Golshin Elham and Ansari Ashraf','60 ZAHEDMANESH FOROUZAN, GOLSHIN ELHAM AND ANSARI ASHRAF.pdf','',1,'Tumor necrosis factor-alpha (TNF-α) as pro-inflammatory cytokine has been shown that associated with type II diabetes, insulin resistance and metabolic syndrome. In this study, we aimed to determine association of serum TNF-α with anthropometrical markers in inactive adult obese men. For this purpose, fasting serum TNF-α and al anthropometrical markers were measured in twenty six adult obese men aged 39 ± 2 and body weight 94 ± 6.2. Pearson’s correlation coefficients were used to evaluate the correlations between serum TNF-α and other variables. A p-value < 0.05 was considered to be statistically significant. We observed that serum TNF-α was not correlated with all anthropometrical markers. Data of this study are controversial. Further studies are necessary to elucidate the significance of serum TNF-α in pathophysiology of obesity.','Obesity, Body mass index, Inflammation, Metabolic syndrome','Tumor necrosis factor-alpha (TNF-α) as pro-inflammatory cytokine has been shown that associated with type II diabetes, insulin resistance and metabolic syndrome. In this study, we aimed to determine association of serum TNF-α with anthropometrical markers in inactive adult obese men. For this purpose, fasting serum TNF-α and al anthropometrical markers were measured in twenty six adult obese men aged 39 ± 2 and body weight 94 ± 6.2. Pearson’s correlation coefficients were used to evaluate the correlations between serum TNF-α and other variables. A p-value < 0.05 was considered to be statistically significant. We observed that serum TNF-α was not correlated with all anthropometrical markers. Data of this study are controversial. Further studies are necessary to elucidate the significance of serum TNF-α in pathophysiology of obesity.','Today the role of Obesity and overweight in prevalence of cardiovascular diseases and metabolic syndrome is well established. Clinical studies in adults have shown that chronic inflammation affects the pathogenesis of some diseases, such as Atherosclerosis, Diabetes, Cancer, some neurological diseases, cardiovascular diseases and diseases affecting the immune system [1]. Obesity increases the inflammatory cytokine secreted by adipose tissue and other body tissues, such as C-reactive protein (CRP), Interleukin 6 (IL-6, Tumor necrosis factor-alpha (TNF-α), Resistin and Interleukin-1 beta (IL-1B), which together lead to incidence and severity of the above mentioned diseases [2,3,4]. Research evidence reveals that these peptide components regulate energy balance and body weight by interfering with the mechanisms that regulate metabolism. Research evidence supports a close relationship between these inflammatory cytokines and visceral adipocyte size in obese individuals and other chronic diseases [5, 6].\r\nMoreover, impaired secretion and systemic levels of these inflammatory markers cause to lipid disorders, especially in obese patients [7]. TNF-a is an inflammatory cytokine which is secreted by certain proinflammatory cells, such as macrophages and mast cells and is known as the cause of inflammatory response and immune system regulation, and it’s levels in obese individuals is significantly higher than those with normal weight. For the first time, the relationship between Obesity and proinflammatory cytokine TNF-α and its role in the relationship between Obesity and inflammation were assessed by a study by Hotamisligil and colleagues [8].\r\nThis cytokine is known as a regulator of inflammatory responses of the body and plays an important role in the relationship between Obesity and inflammatory diseases, such as Diabetes, Metabolic syndrome, Atherosclerosis and chronic heart failure [9, 10]. On the other hand, some studies have not shown a significant difference in inflammatory or anti-inflammatory cytokine levels between obese and normal-weight individuals [11]. This lack difference has also been reported by other studies [12, 13, 14]. Given the contradictory findings concerning the comparison of cytokines levels, such as TNF-α between obese and normal-weight individuals and also the limited number of studies on relationship between them and the indicators of Obesity, This study analyzes the relationship between TNF-α, as a proinflammatory cytokine with anthropometric indices and body composition as determinants of obesity in obese men.\r\nA. Subjects\r\nThirty one adult obese men aged 39.4 ± 2.4 year and BMI 31.4 ± 1.49 kg/m2 were assigned in this study through local advertising. All subjects of two groups were inactive, non-smoker and non-alcoholics. Participants were included if they had not been involved in regular physical activity in the previous 6 months.\r\n \r\n\r\n\r\n Forouzan, Elham and Ashraf 368\r\n \r\nWe also excluded people who had any self reported physician diagnosed chronic disease (arthritis, stroke, diabetes, hypertension, cancer, heart attack, chronic cough, or bronchitis). The study protocol was approved by the local Research Ethics Committee of Islamic Azad University and written informed consent was obtained. \r\nB. Anthropometrics and laboratory\r\nThe measurements for weight, height, waist circumference were first performed, than fasting blood samples were taken for the determination of serum TNF-α. A detailed history and physical examination of each subject was carried out. Weight was measured to the nearest 100 g using digital scales. Height was measured with high precision with an error of ± 0.1 cm. The Body Mass index (BMI) was calculated using the formula body weight/height2 in terms of kg/m2. Percentage body fat was measured using body composition monitor (OMRON, Finland). Abdominal circumference (WC) was measured at the superior border of the iliac crest and was taken to the nearest 0.1 cm after a normal expiration. All of these measurements were conducted by the same researcher. Each of these measurements was conducted two times and the average was reported.\r\nTo determine TNF-α by ELIZA method, fasting blood samples were obtained after a overnight fast after a 12-h overnight fast between the hours of 8 to 9 am. The inter- and intra-assay coefficients of variance were 6.0 and 6 % for resistin, 7.4 and 3.4% for TNF-α.\r\nC. Statistical analysis\r\nStatistic analysis was done with SPSS 15.0 for Windows. The Kolmogorov-Smirnov test was applied to determine the variables with normal distribution. Pearson correlations were used to establish the relationship between TNF-α concentration with anthropometrical indexes on obese subjects. A p-value less than 0.05 were considered statistically significant.\r\nRESULTS\r\nThis study aimed to determine the relation of TNF-α with anthropometrical markers in obese men. Table 1 are showed anthropometrical markers and serum TNF-α values by mean and standard deviation. Significant of correlation of all anthropometrical markers with serum TNF-α were also showed in table. \r\nBased on Pearson correlation methods, we observed that serum TNF-α is not correlated with body weight (p = 0.17, r = 0.28), abdominal circumference (p = 0.87, r = 0.03), BMI (p = 0.11, r = 0.33), body fat % (p = 0.17, r = 0.28) and the other anthropometrical markers in studied subjects (Table 1, Fig. 1).\r\nDISCUSSION\r\nPrevious studies have often shown higher inflammatory cytokine levels in obese individuals, healthy or sick than normal-weight individuals, and somehow support the Inflammatory or anti-inflammatory cytokine dependence on weight and body fat levels [8, 15-17]. However, the findings of this study, like some previous studies, which confirmed the lack of correlation between cytokines and anthropometric markers or body composition [18] showed no relation between anthropometric indices and levels of TNF-α as an inflammatory cytokine. In other words, the present study didn’t show a significant relationship between the serum levels of TNF-α and any of the anthropometric markers or body composition, such as weight, body mass index or body fat percentage in obese men studied.\r\nHowever, adipose tissue macrophages are known as the main source of this inflammatory cytokine secretion [19] and some studies have confirmed its 7.5-fold increase In obese than in lean subjects [20]. For the first time, the relationship between Obesity and TNF-α was mentioned in a study by Hotamisligil et al. which investigates its role in inflammation and Obesity [21]. These studies also have pointed to the potential role of TNF-α in increase of VLDL, which indicates its relationship with plasma triglyceride [20]. \r\nSome other studies, in addition to its importance in inflammatory processes caused by Obesity, have reported its significant reduction after weight loss [22]. However, no significant changes in the expression of TNF-α and its levels in skeletal muscle following a significant reduction in body weight of 5.4 to 5.12% of body weight have been reported by some previous studies [23]. However, researchers have noted that the lack of a significant effect of weight loss on inflammatory markers such as IL-6 and TNF-α in skeletal muscle could be due to low levels of macrophages in skeletal muscle [24]. As a cytokine TNF-α levels higher in obese than in normal-weight individuals have been reported by some recent studies [25]. However, the weight loss in obese type 2 diabetes reduces the production of TNF-α and improves insulin residence [26]. The findings of a recent study showed that plasma TNF-α levels in obese diabetics is higher by about 30% than the non-obese diabetics, but this increase is not only in response to Hyperglycemia and it’s the Obesity phenomenon that alongside Hyperglycemia is responsible for the increase in TNF-α in these patients [27].\r\nAbout the relationship between TNF-α levels with metabolic and physical markers of body, however, based on the opinion of some researchers, this inflammatory cytokine is presented as a marker to identify and determine the function of cardiovascular diseases [28], It is not yet clear to what extent the metabolic, inflammatory and anthropometric markers are involved with its synthesis, secretion and systemic levels. \r\nThe fact that fat tissue is the main source of some inflammatory cytokines, such as TNF-α have been reported by some studies [29, 30]. However, TNF-α expression in adipose tissue do not necessarily reflect its levels in blood circulation of obese individuals [21].\r\nAlso, in another study no significant difference in serum TNF-α level between normal-weight children and obese children or children with higher levels of fat were found [31]. In a previous study researchers, noting that waist circumference is not an Independent determinant of Circulating levels of TNF-α, pointed out that more important than obesity, it is clinical inflammation that‘s the main determinant of circulating levels of TNF-α in non-patients [17]. On the other hand, ignoring contradictory and Countercurrent findings, the lack of relationship between TNF-α and anthropometric indices in the present study can be attributed to the low number of subjects.\r\n','Zahedmanesh Forouzan, Golshin Elham and Ansari Ashraf (2014). Association of Tumor Necrosis factor-alpha with Anthropometrical indexes in obese individuals. Biological Forum – An International Journal 6(2): 367-371. '),(4761,'120','Comparing the Incidence of Anterior Cruciate Ligament Injury in Collegiate male Soccer, Taekwondo and Basketball Players','Mehdi Kasbparast Jr, Alireza Rahimi, Fariba Aghaei, Alireza Shokrgozar \r\nand Maryam Hamidzad Sangachin\r\n','64 MEHDI KASBPARAST JR, ALIREZA RAHIMI, FARIBA AGHAEI, ALIREZA SHOKRGOZAR, MARYAM HAMIDZAD SANGACHIN.pdf','',1,'The anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) is one of the most commonly disrupted ligaments in the knee. Male college basketball, taekwondo and soccer athletes have higher rates of anterior cruciate ligament injury. Rates of anterior cruciate ligament injuries for men in collegiate in this three sport activity have not been examined. Understanding anterior cruciate ligament injury incidence in basketball, taekwondo and soccer, a contact and non-contact sport for men, could further injury prevention efforts. Data were collected from Sports Cultural Olympiad male students 2010-2014 and analyzed to compare anterior cruciate ligament injuries in male college basketball, taekwondo and soccer athletes from the questionnaire (n = 372) and through interviews with injured players (n = 138). Our results indicate collegiate male basketball is a high-risk sport for anterior cruciate ligament injury. In fact, anterior cruciate ligament injury incidence in basketball, soccer and taekwondo in our study indicated that basketball has the greatest number of ACL injuries (α = 1%) and after basketball, Football had the highest injury in ACL and finally taekwondo with 46.8% has a minimum rate of ACL injury. Our finding may be explained by the fact that basketball involves more contact than soccer. Factors such as age, sex, chronicity of injury, associated pathology, activity level, attitude, range of motion and motivation must all be considered to compare of ACL injury. It was suggested that these data would be helpful for the reduction of injury risks and the costs besides with proper onsite precautions.','Anterior cruciate ligament, collegiate, injury','The anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) is one of the most commonly disrupted ligaments in the knee. Male college basketball, taekwondo and soccer athletes have higher rates of anterior cruciate ligament injury. Rates of anterior cruciate ligament injuries for men in collegiate in this three sport activity have not been examined. Understanding anterior cruciate ligament injury incidence in basketball, taekwondo and soccer, a contact and non-contact sport for men, could further injury prevention efforts. Data were collected from Sports Cultural Olympiad male students 2010-2014 and analyzed to compare anterior cruciate ligament injuries in male college basketball, taekwondo and soccer athletes from the questionnaire (n = 372) and through interviews with injured players (n = 138). Our results indicate collegiate male basketball is a high-risk sport for anterior cruciate ligament injury. In fact, anterior cruciate ligament injury incidence in basketball, soccer and taekwondo in our study indicated that basketball has the greatest number of ACL injuries (α = 1%) and after basketball, Football had the highest injury in ACL and finally taekwondo with 46.8% has a minimum rate of ACL injury. Our finding may be explained by the fact that basketball involves more contact than soccer. Factors such as age, sex, chronicity of injury, associated pathology, activity level, attitude, range of motion and motivation must all be considered to compare of ACL injury. It was suggested that these data would be helpful for the reduction of injury risks and the costs besides with proper onsite precautions.','The anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) is the primary passive restraint against anterior tibial translation and hyperextension of the knee. As a secondary stabilizer, it restrains the varus and valgus as well as internal and external stresses on the knee [1]. It acts like a guide rope during knee extension from flexion (roll-and-glide mechanism of the knee). It averages 31-38 mm in length and 8-11 mm in width [2] and is not a single cord but a collection of fascicles that fan out over a broad flattened area, with a wider and stronger tibial than femoral attachment [3]. The injury of the ACL is a typical injury of the knee joint that occurs during sports activities [4, 5, and 6]. It has been well recognized that multiple factors, whether individually or in combination, contribute to non-contact ACL injury. The ongoing mission of the ACL research retreat is to bring clinicians and researchers together to present and discuss the most recent advances in ACL injury epidemiology, risk factor identification, and injury-risk screening and prevention strategies and to identify future research directives [7]. Researchers have utilized a range of measurement techniques focused on different at risk groups, evaluated many sports, identified an array of injury mechanisms, and utilized different study designs. Current investigations concerning ACL injury risk focus on a range of potential factors, and the majority of these studies are based on small sample sizes and, as a result, are underpowered. Nowadays, most athletes return to competition following reconstructive surgery, but the time loss from sport and the financial cost of suffering an ACL injury are high [8]. ACL tear in soccer is quite frequent and they seriously affect players’ career with short-term and long-term consequences. It has also been seen that ACL injuries are very invalidating events that require surgical treatments and keeps majority of soccer players out of competition at least four months every season. In professional soccer it has significant economic consequences. Soccer is particularly known as a sport with a reasonably high risk for ACL injuries [4, 5, 9, and 10]. Injury rates as high as 2.8 and 3.2 injuries per 10,000 athlete exposures have been reported in women’s collegiate basketball and soccer [11]. As in many other combat sports, there is high potential for injury associated with elite athletic performance in taekwondo [12-18]. \r\n \r\n\r\n Kasbparast Jr, Rahimi, Aghaei, Shokrgozar and Sangachin 388\r\n \r\nDefining injury as any circumstance for which the athlete sought the assistance of on-site medical personnel, the latest reviews on competition injuries in taekwondo concluded that total injury rates are 20.6–139.5 per 1000 athlete-exposure (A-E) for elite men and 25.3–105.5 per 1000 A-E for elite women. When only time-loss injuries are considered, rates are 6.9–33.6 per 1000 A-E for men and 2.4–23.0 per 1000 A-E for women [17]. ACL tears can also occur during rough play, mover vehicle collisions, falls, and work-related injuries. About 80% of sports-related ACL tears are \"non-contact\" injuries. This means that the injury occurs without the contact of another athlete, such as a tackle in soccer. Most often ACL tears occur when pivoting or landing from a jump. The knee gives-out from under the athlete when the ACL is torn. Our result showed an ACL injury occurred more often during a practice than during competition. The situations during a competition and a practice are different in many respects. Athletes usually spend a much longer time in practice than in competition. Non-contact ACL injuries typically occur during deceleration and change of direction with the foot fixed Knee torsion that results from making a sudden directional change on a planted foot has been implicated as a cause of ACL tears. Data such as contact versus non-contact, position of the knee and lower leg, direction of knee collapse, direction of body twisting, and other events were recorded. The number of variables an athlete must respond to in team sports may explain the higher incidence of injuries in sports such as soccer, basketball and taekwondo [19].The purpose of this study was (1) to update the rates of ACL injury in matched men’s sports (soccer, taekwondo and basketball) and (2) to compare these ACL injury rates to those in men’s among this sports activity. We hypothesized that a lower rate of ACL injuries in soccer, taekwondo and basketball athletes would be evident over the past 5 years if any of the excess ACL risk in men athletes was owing to shorter length of participation in organized sport and possibly lower fitness level. We also hypothesized that the risk of ACL injury would be lower in both men’s taekwondo when compared with basketball and soccer. We were further motivated by the increasing popularity of soccer and a desire to better understand the differences and trends in injury patterns between soccer, taekwondo and basketball.\r\nMATERIALS AND METHODS\r\nData were collected from Sports Cultural Olympiad male students 2010-2014 in 2 different ways, from the questionnaire (n=372) and through interviews with injured players (n = 138). The sport activities that were considered for the study included: soccer, basketball and Taekwondo male athlete (Table1). \r\nThis study aimed to investigate the incidence of knee injuries among collegiate soccer, basketball and taekwondo player and also compared the injury in ACL among sport activities that mentioned. As a result, all acute injuries that occurred during training activities or during competition are reported and collected in the injury registry. All injured players were interviewed during the 2010-2014 to compare player recall with the questionnaire. The interview data were also used to check whether the questionnaire we obtained was a representative sample. The entire athletes were diagnosed as having an ACL injury confirmed by magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) and/or an arthroscopic procedure. Approximately seventy five percent of the subjects visited the clinic within one month, and 25 percent of the subjects visited the clinic within one week after an ACL injury incident. We classified the activity of the subject at the time of the ACL injury in two categories (A) competitions (B) practice.\r\nRESULTS\r\nThe majority of soccer injuries are caused by trauma; the proportion of overuse injuries accounts for between 9% and 34% of all injuries [20, 21]. Soccer injuries affect predominately the ankle and knee as well as the muscles of the thigh and calf [22, 23]. The incidence of soccer injury has been investigated in several studies, and varies for male outdoor players (>16 years) from 12–35 injuries per 1000 match hours [23, 24]. For youth players, the reported incidences range from 0.5–13.7 injuries per 1000 hours exposure [25, 26]. Specific analysis of youth soccer players has shown that the incidence of injury increases with age [27, 28, 29, and 30]. Understanding the injury pattern of a particular sport and its inherent risk factors is a key area of current sports medicine [31]. The main injury mechanism in taekwondo is through direct contact, especially the exchange of accurate turning kicks and poorly performed or non-existent blocking skills [14, 17, 32, and 33]. The vast majority of all injuries are localized to the lower extremities, especially the instep of the foot, and these are contusions, sprains and muscle strains [14, 17, and 34]. The head and neck regions are the next most likely to receive taekwondo competition injuries [14, 17]. Basketball injuries are generally defined as either acute/traumatic or overuse injuries. Acute or traumatic injuries occur due to a sudden force, or impact, such as a fall or a stumble. Overuse injuries occur over time due to stress on the muscles, joints and soft tissues without proper time for healing. They begin as a small, nagging ache or pain, and can grow into a nasty debilitating injury if they aren\'t treated early.\r\nBoth types of injuries may result from overuse, lack of proper rest, lack of proper warm ups or poor conditioning. Basketball continues to increase in popularity at all levels of play, from recreational to professional and remains immensely popular, not just in the United States, but throughout the world [35]. \r\nOverall incidence rate in basketball have been reported to be higher during competitive matches than training sessions [36, 37]. Results of the most commonly studied population of adolescent basketball players – American public high school players, revealed that injury incidence vary considerably, from 5.6 – 36.8 per 100 participants for boys and 7.8 – 49.0 per 100 participants for girls [37].\r\nIn this study injury was defined as any physical complaint caused by soccer, basketball or taekwondo during inter collegiate training and matches. The duration of absence due to an injury was categorized according to the severity grading up to one week, 8–21 days, or more than 21 days. An injury was categorized as overuse if it was caused by repetitive micro trauma with no identifiable traumatic event. Non-contact injuries included overuse injuries. The classification of an injury as caused without or by contact with another player was based on information about the circumstances of the injury given by the player. The main injury to the ACL being torn is usually non-contact involvement. When it happens though, it is most often in contact sports. These sports are soccer, basketball and Taekwondo. The reason for this difference in the type of sport and how it happens involves the activities done in each sport. With these sports, there is usually a rapid change of direction or landing form a jump involved. The most frequent way that the ACL is torn is the athlete has a planted foot with the knee in an almost extended position (sometimes hyper-extended). The most participants in the three sports activities were soccer with 268 athletes and less one was basketball. The sport activities and demographic Characteristics that were considered for the study included: soccer, basketball and Taekwondo male athlete (Table 1).Our results also indicate most time of injury were in during practice (Table 2). Comparison of ACL injury among sport activities in our study indicated that basketball has the greatest number of ACL injuries (α = 1%) and after basketball, Football had the highest injury in ACL and finally taekwondo with 46.8% has a minimum rate of ACL injury (Fig. 1). \r\nDISCUSSION\r\nThe function of the ACL is to stabilize the knee joint, prevent abnormal movements, and steer the movement of the knee [38]. The ACL prevents forward translation of the tibia relative to the femur, and cadaver studies have shown that at 30° of knee flexion the ACL represents 85% of the total capsular and ligamentous resistance [1]. An ACL tear is most often a sports-related injury. ACL tears can also occur during rough play, mover vehicle collisions, falls, and work-related injuries. About 80% of sports-related ACL tears are \"non-contact\" injuries. This means that the injury occurs without the contact of another athlete, such as a tackle in soccer. Most often ACL tears occur when pivoting or landing from a jump.\r\nThe knee gives-out from under the athlete when the ACL is torn. Our result showed an ACL injury occurred more often during a practice than during competition. The situations during a competition and a practice are different in many respects. Athletes usually spend a much longer time in practice than in competition. Along with longer commitment, athletes usually challenge new team formation and technique during a practice rather than during a competition, which might increase the risk of injury. However, a more stressful situation might be imposed on the athletes during a competition than during a practice both physically and mentally. The present study is a prospective investigation of the incidence of ACL injury in soccer, basketball and taekwondo players. Although the teams were selected to be of a similar age and skill level, the soccer, basketball and taekwondo players differed substantially in almost all baseline characteristics as well as in the amount of time spent in matches. The proportion of high and low skill level teams did not vary significantly between the groups. Before the results of the comparison of soccer and basketball injuries are discussed, the incidence of injury for each sport will be compared with the incidences reported in other studies of injury, for the given sport. One of the main problems encountered in attempting to compare incidences of sports injuries reported in the literature is that different evaluation methods and definitions of injury have been used [39, 40, and 41]. Another important aspect in comparing the incidence of sports injuries is the influence of the ratio of time spent in practice relative to time spent playing competitions. Usually, more injuries occurred during practice than during competition sessions and, as such, differences in the ratio of practice and competition hours may bias calculations of the overall incidence of injury. For this reason, it is recommended that the incidence of competition injuries in relation to the time spent in matches, and of practice injuries in relation to the time spent in training, are reported and compared separately. The rate of basketball ACL injuries over this 4 years period is almost 20% higher in taekwondo and almost 15% higher in soccer (Fig. 1). This finding may be explained by the fact that basketball involves more contact than soccer. Incidental trauma or minimal trauma, which may lead to an awkward landing position or a disturbance in the neuromuscular patterns that protect the knee, may be key factors in ACL injuries [42, 43]. However, without information on the mechanism of how the injuries occurred, this remains a hypothesis [44]. Another possibility for injury differences between this three sport activities can be related to surface that activity done on it. Because, soccer field turf grasses let to athlete to glide and reduced risk of injury but in basketball and taekwondo glide is less likely and in pivoting and landing from a jump more injury is likely. \r\nFinally, direct comparisons between basketball, soccer and taekwondo are problematic because the rules of play are fundamentally different and further study of ACL injury patterns and prospective identification of specific risk factors are warranted and essential to the goal of decreasing injury among an ever-growing group of athletes.\r\n','Mehdi Kasbparast Jr, Alireza Rahimi, Fariba Aghaei, Alireza Shokrgozar \r\nand Maryam Hamidzad Sangachin (2014). Comparing the Incidence of Anterior Cruciate Ligament Injury in Collegiate male Soccer, Taekwondo and Basketball Players. Biological Forum – An International Journal 6(2): 387-392. \r\n '),(4762,'120','Coherent States in SU(4) of Spin Systems and Calculate the Berry Phase for Qudit with Spin 3/2 particle in SU(4) in Quantum Mechanics','Yadollah Farahmand, Zabialah Heidarnezhad, Fatemeh Heidarnezhad,\r\nFatemeh Heydari and Kh. Kh Muminov\r\n','65 YADOLLAH FARAHMAND @ ZIBIALAH F.pdf','',1,'In this paper, we develop the formulation of the spin coherent state in real parameterization SU(4).we obtain Berry phase from Schrdinger equation. For vector states, basic kets are coherent states in real parameterization. We calculate Berry phase for qudit with spin S=3/2 in SU(3) group and Berry phase.','Quantum mechanics, Schrdinger equation, coherent state, SU(n)group, Quadrupole moment, Berry phase.','In this paper, we develop the formulation of the spin coherent state in real parameterization SU(4).we obtain Berry phase from Schrdinger equation. For vector states, basic kets are coherent states in real parameterization. We calculate Berry phase for qudit with spin S=3/2 in SU(3) group and Berry phase.','In 1984 Berry published a paper [1] which has until now deeply influenced the physical community. In mechanics (including classical mechanics as well as quantum mechanics), the Geometric phase, or the Pancharatnam-Berry phase (named after S. Pancharatnam and Sir Michael Berry), also known as the Pancharatnam phase or, more commonly, Berry phase [2], Therein he considers cyclic evolutions of systems under special conditions, namely adiabatic ones. He finds that an additional phase factor occurs in contrast to the well-known dynamical phase factor. is a phase acquired over the course of a cycle, when the system is subjected to cyclic adiabatic processes, resulting from the geometrical properties of the parameter space of the Hamiltonian. Apart from quantum mechanics, it arises in a variety of other wave systems, such as classical optics [3]. As a rule of thumb, it occurs when ever there are at least two parameters affecting a wave, in the vicinity of some sort of singularity or some sort of hole in the topology. In nonrelativistic quantum mechanics, the state of a system is described by the vector of the Hilbert space (the wave function) ∈ H which depends on time and some set of other variables depending on the considered problem. The evolution of a quantum system in time t is described by the Schrodinger equation\r\nWe consider a quantum system described by a Hamiltonian H that depends on a multidimensional real parameter R which parameterizes the environment of the system. The time evolution is described by the time dependent Schrodinger equation\r\nH(R(t) )|ψ(t) ┤ ├ ┤⟩=iℏ ∂/∂t |ψ(t) ┤ ├ ┤⟩ (1)\r\nWe can choose at any instant a basis of eigen states|n(R(t))┤ ├ ┤⟩for the Hamiltonian labelled by the quantum number n such that the eigen value equation is fulfilled\r\n\r\nH(R(t) )|n(R(t))┤ ├ ┤⟩=E_N (R(t))|n(R(t))┤ ├ ┤⟩ (2)\r\nWe assume that the energy spectrum of H is discrete, that the eigen values are not degenerated and that no level crossing occurs during the evolution. Suppose the environment and therefore R(t) is adiabatically varied, that means the changes happen slowly in time compared to the characteristic time scale of the system. The system starts in the nth energy eigen state\r\n\r\n|ψ(0) ┤ ├ ┤⟩=|n(R(0))┤ ├ ┤⟩ (3)\r\nthen according to the adiabatic theorem the system stays over the whole evolution in the n-the eigen state of the instant Hamiltonian. But it is possible that the state gains some phase factor which does not affect the physical state. Therefore the state of the system can be written as\r\n|ψ(t) ┤ ├ ┤⟩=e^(iφ_n ) |n(R(t))┤ ├ ┤⟩ (4)\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\n Farahmand, Heidarnezhad, Heidarnezhad, Heydari and Muminov 394\r\nOne would expect that this phase factor is identical with the dynamical phase factor〖 θ〗_nwhich is the integral over the energy eigenvalues\r\n\r\nθ_n (t)=-1/ℏ ∫_0^t▒〖E_n (t^\' ) 〗 dt^\' (5)\r\nbut it is not forbidden by the adiabatic theorem and the Schrodinger equation to add another term Θ_nwhich is called the Berry phase [4-8]\r\nφ_n (t)=θ_n (t)+Θ_n (t) (6)\r\nWe can determine this additional term by inserting the an sat z (4) together with equation (6) into the Schrodinger equation (1). This yields with the simplifying notation R ≡R(t)\r\n∂/∂t |nR(t) ┤ ├ ┤⟩+i d/dt Θ_n (t)|nR(t) ┤ ├ ┤⟩=0 (7)\r\nAfter taking the inner product (which should be normalized) with |nR(t) ┤ ├ ┤⟩we get\r\nd/dt Θ_n (t)=i⟨nR(t)│∂/∂t│nR(t) ⟩ (8)\r\n\r\nd/dt Θ_n (t)=i⟨nR(t)│∇_R│nR(t) ⟩ dR/dt (9)\r\nand after the integration\r\n\r\nΘ_n (t)=i∫_(R_i)^(R_i)▒⟨nR(t)│∇_R│nR(t) ⟩ dR (10)\r\n\r\nwhere we introduced the notation\r\n\r\nA_k=i⟨ϕ│∂_k ϕ⟩ (12)\r\nThen the total change in the phase of the wave function is equal to theintegra\r\nφ_n=-1/ℏ ∫_0^t▒E_n dt^\'+Θ_B (13)\r\nΘ_B=∮_λ▒〖dλ^k A_k 〗 (14)\r\nThe respective local form of the curvature has only two nonzero components:\r\nThe expression for the Berry phase (14) can be rewritten as a surface integral of the components of the local curvature form. Using Stokes formulae, we obtain the following expression\r\nΘ_B=1/2 ∬_S▒〖dλ^k×dλ^l F_kl (15)〗\r\nwhere S is a surface in R^3and F_kl=∂_k A_l-∂_l A_k are components of the local curvature form .[9]\r\n\r\nBerrys phase for coherent state in SU(4) group for a spin 3/2particle (qudit)\r\n\r\nWe consider reference state as 〖(1,0,0,0)〗^Tfor a spin-3/2 particle (qudit) in SU(4) in nonrelativistic quantum mechanics. Coherent state in real parameter in this group is in the following form [10-12]\r\n|ψ┤ ├ ┤⟩=D^1 (θ,φ,γ) e^(2igQ ̂^xy ) e^(-i〖βS〗^z ) e^(-ikF ̂^xyz ) |0┤ ├ ┤⟩=C_0 |0┤ ├ ┤⟩+C_1 |1┤ ├ ┤⟩ 〖+C〗_2 |2┤ ├ ┤⟩ 〖+C〗_3 |3┤ ├ ┤⟩ (16)\r\n\r\nwhere |0i is reference state and\r\nD^1 (θ,φ,γ)=e^(-iφS^z ) e^(-iθS^y ) e^(-iγS^z ) (17)\r\nis Wigner function. Quadrupole moment is\r\nQ ̂^xy=1/(4√3 i) (S^+ S^+-S^- S^- )=i/2 [├ ■(0 0 1 0@0 0 0 1@■(-1 0 0 0 @0 -1 0 0))] (18)┤\r\n\r\n Farahmand, Heidarnezhad, Heidarnezhad, Heydari and Muminov 395\r\nOctupole moment is\r\nF ̂^xyz=1/6i (S^+ S^+ S^+-S^- S^- S^- )=1/i [├ ■(0 0 0 1@0 0 0 0@■( 0 0 0 0 @-1 0 0 0))] ┤ (19)\r\n\r\nIf we insert all above calculation in coherent state, obtain:\r\n\r\nC_0=〖A_1 e〗^(3/2 i(φ-γ-β) )-〖A_2 e〗^(i/2 (3φ+γ-3β) )-〖B_1 e〗^(i/2 (3φ-γ+3β) )+〖B_2 e〗^(3/2 i(φ+γ+β) )\r\nC_1=〖A_3 e〗^(3/2 i(φ-γ+β) )-〖A_4 e〗^(i/2 (3φ+γ-3β) )+〖B_3 e〗^(i/2 (φ-γ+3β) )-〖B_4 e〗^(i/2 (φ+3γ+3β) )\r\nC_2=〖〖B^\'〗_4 e〗^((-i)/2 (φ+3γ+3β) )-〖〖B^\'〗_4 e〗^(i/2 (φ-γ+3β) )+〖〖A^\'〗_4 e〗^(-i/2 (φ+γ-3β) )-〖〖A^\'〗_2 e〗^(-i/2 (φ-3γ-3β) )\r\nC_3=〖〖B^\'〗_1 e〗^(-3/2 i(φ+γ+β) )-〖〖B^\'〗_2 e〗^(-i/2 (3φ-γ+3β) )+〖〖A^\'〗_1 e〗^(-3/2 i(φ-γ-β) )-〖〖A^\'〗_2 e〗^(-i/2 (3φ+γ-3β) )\r\nA_1=sin^3⁡(θ/2) cos⁡g sin⁡k,A_1^\'=sin^3⁡(θ/2) cos⁡g cos⁡k\r\nA_2=√3 sin⁡〖(θ/2) cos^2⁡(θ/2) 〗 sin⁡g sin⁡〖k ,〗 A_2^\'=√3 sin⁡〖(θ/2) cos^2⁡(θ/2) 〗 sin⁡g cos⁡k\r\n\r\nA_3=√3 sin^2⁡〖(θ/2) cos⁡(θ/2) 〗 cos⁡g sin⁡〖k 〗\r\nA_4=cos⁡(θ)⁡cos^2⁡(θ/2) sin⁡g sin⁡〖k ,〗 A_4^\'=cos⁡(θ)⁡cos^2⁡(θ/2) sin⁡g cos⁡k\r\n\r\nB_1=√3 sin^2⁡〖(θ/2) cos⁡(θ/2) 〗 sin⁡g cos⁡〖k ,〗 B_1^\'=√3 〖sin〗^2⁡〖(θ/2) cos⁡(θ/2) 〗 sin⁡g sin⁡k\r\n\r\nB_2=cos^3⁡(θ/2) cos⁡g cos⁡k,B_2^\'=cos^3⁡(θ/2) cos⁡g sin⁡k\r\nB_3=sin⁡(θ)⁡〖(2-3 sin^2⁡〖(θ/2))〗 〗 sin⁡g cos⁡〖k (20)〗\r\nB_4=√3 sin⁡〖(θ/2) cos^2⁡(θ/2) 〗 cos⁡g cos⁡〖k ,〗 B_4^\'=√3 sin⁡〖(θ/2) cos^2⁡(θ/2) 〗 cos⁡g sin⁡k\r\n\r\nC_0=〖sin^3⁡(θ/2) cos⁡g sin⁡k e〗^(3/2 i(φ-γ-β) )-〖√3 sin⁡〖(θ/2) cos^2⁡(θ/2) 〗 sin⁡g sin⁡〖k 〗 e〗^(i/2 (3φ+γ-3β) )-〖√3 sin^2⁡〖(θ/2) cos⁡(θ/2) 〗 sin⁡g cos⁡〖k 〗 e〗^(i/2 (3φ-γ+3β) )+〖cos^3⁡(θ/2) cos⁡g cos⁡k e〗^(3/2 i(φ+γ+β) ) (21)\r\nC_1=〖√3 sin^2⁡〖(θ/2) cos⁡(θ/2) 〗 cos⁡g sin⁡〖k 〗 e〗^(3/2 i(φ-γ+β) )-〖cos⁡(θ)⁡cos^2⁡(θ/2) sin⁡g sin⁡〖k 〗 e〗^(i/2 (3φ+γ-3β) )+〖sin⁡(θ)⁡〖(2-3 sin^2⁡〖(θ/2))〗 〗 sin⁡g cos⁡k e〗^(i/2 (φ-γ+3β) )-〖√3 sin⁡〖(θ/2) cos^2⁡(θ/2) 〗 cos⁡g cos⁡〖k 〗 e〗^(i/2 (φ+3γ+3β) ) (22)\r\nC_2=〖√3 sin⁡〖(θ/2) cos^2⁡(θ/2) 〗 cos⁡g sin⁡k e〗^((-i)/2 (φ+3γ+3β) )-〖√3 sin⁡〖(θ/2) cos^2⁡(θ/2) 〗 cos⁡g sin⁡k e〗^(i/2 (φ-γ+3β) )+〖cos⁡(θ)⁡cos^2⁡(θ/2) sin⁡g cos⁡k e〗^(-i/2 (φ+γ-3β) )-〖√3 sin⁡〖(θ/2) cos^2⁡(θ/2) 〗 sin⁡g cos⁡k e〗^(-i/2 (φ-3γ-3β) ) (23)\r\nC_3=〖√3 〖sin〗^2⁡〖(θ/2) cos⁡(θ/2) 〗 sin⁡g sin⁡k e〗^(-3/2 i(φ+γ+β) )-〖cos^3⁡(θ/2) cos⁡g sin⁡k e〗^(-i/2 (3φ-γ+3β) )+〖sin^3⁡(θ/2) cos⁡g cos⁡k e〗^(-3/2 i(φ-γ-β) )-〖√3 sin⁡〖(θ/2) cos^2⁡(θ/2) 〗 sin⁡g cos⁡k e〗^(-i/2 (3φ+γ-3β) ) (24)\r\nA_θ=i(■(C_1^†&C_2^†&■(C_3^†&C_4^† ))) ∂/∂θ (■(C_1@C_2@■(C_3@C_4 ))) ,A_φ=i(■(C_1^†&C_2^†&■(C_3^†&C_4^† ))) ∂/∂φ (■(C_1@C_2@■(C_3@C_4 )))\r\n\r\n Farahmand, Heidarnezhad, Heidarnezhad, Heydari and Muminov 396\r\n\r\nA_γ=i(■(C_1^†&C_2^†&■(C_3^†&C_4^† ))) ∂/∂γ (■(C_1@C_2@■(C_3@C_4 ))) ,A_g=i(■(C_1^†&C_2^†&■(C_3^†&C_4^† ))) ∂/∂g (■(C_1@C_2@■(C_3@C_4 )))\r\nA_k=i(■(C_1^†&C_2^†&■(C_3^†&C_4^† ))) ∂/∂k (■(C_1@C_2@■(C_3@C_4 ))) ,A_β=i(■(C_1^†&C_2^†&■(C_3^†&C_4^† ))) ∂/∂β (■(C_1@C_2@■(C_3@C_4 ))) (25)\r\nF_θφ=∂_θ A_φ-∂_φ A_θ ,F_θγ=∂_θ A_γ-∂_γ A_θ ,F_θg=∂_θ A_g-∂_g A_θ\r\nF_θk=∂_θ A_k-∂_k A_θ ,F_θβ=∂_θ A_β-∂_β A_θ ,F_φγ=∂_φ A_γ-∂_γ A_φ\r\nF_φg=∂_φ A_g-∂_g A_φ ,F_φk=∂_φ A_k-∂_k A_φ ,F_φβ=∂_φ A_β-∂_β A_φ\r\nF_γg=∂_γ A_g-∂_g A_γ ,F_γk=∂_γ A_k-∂_k A_γ ,F_γβ=∂_γ A_β-∂_β A_γ\r\nF_gk=∂_g A_k-∂_k A_g ,F_gβ=∂_g A_β-∂_β A_g ,F_kβ=∂_k A_β-∂_β A_k (26)\r\nΘ_B=1/2 ∬_S▒〖dλ^k×dλ^l F_kl=〗 ∬▒F_θφ □(24&dθ)dφ+∬▒F_θγ □(24&dθ)dγ+∬▒F_θg □(24&dθ)dg+∬▒F_θk □(24&dθ)dk+∬▒F_θβ □(24&dθ)dβ+∬▒F_φγ □(24&dφ)dγ+∬▒F_φg □(24&dφ)dg+∬▒F_φk □(24&dφ)dk+∬▒F_φβ □(24&dφ)dβ+∬▒F_γg □(24&dγ)dg+∬▒F_γk □(24&dγ)dk+∬▒F_γβ □(24&dγ)dβ+∬▒F_gk □(24&dg)dk+∬▒F_gβ □(24&dg)dβ+∬▒F_kβ □(24&dk)dβ=⋯ (27)\r\nΘ_B={{7/64 ⅈ√3 ⅇ^(-2ⅈγ) g〖Cos^2 [k]〗^ Cos[θ/2]-7/64 ⅈ√3 ⅇ^2ⅈγ g〖Cos^2 [k]〗^ Cos[θ/2]-(ⅈⅇ^(-2ⅈγ) g〖Cos[k]^\" \" ) 〖Cos^6 [θ/2]〗^ )/(2√3)+(ⅈⅇ^2ⅈγ g〖Cos^2 [k]^ 〖Cos^6 [θ/2]^)/(2√3)-9/2 β〖Cos^2 [g]〗^2 〖Cos^2 [k]〗^2 〖Cos^6 [θ/2]^\"\" )+≪1931≫+15/256 ⅈⅇ^(-2ⅈ(3β-γ)+4ⅈϕ) Cos[k] 〖Sin^2 [g]〗^ Sin[k]Sin[4θ]-3/128 ⅈⅇ^(6ⅈβ-2ⅈ(γ+2ϕ) ) Cos[k] 〖Sin^2 [g]〗^ Sin[k]Sin[4θ]+3/128 ⅈⅇ^(-6ⅈβ+2ⅈ(γ+2ϕ) ) Cos[k] 〖Sin^2 [g]〗^ Sin[k]Sin[4θ] } } (28)\r\n \r\nDISCUSSION\r\nGeometric phases are important in quantum physics and are now central to fault tolerant quantum computation. We have presented a detailed analysis of geometrical phase that can arise within general representations of coherent states in real parameterization in SU(4). Berry phase also change in similar method. We can continues this method to obtain Berry phase in SU(N) group, where N ≥ 5. we can also obtain Berry phase from complex variable base ket, we conclusion that result in two different base ket is similar. Berry phase application in optic, magnetic resonance, molecular and atomic physics [13,14] .\r\n\r\n','Yadollah Farahmand, Zabialah Heidarnezhad, Fatemeh Heidarnezhad,\r\nFatemeh Heydari and Kh. Kh Muminov (2014). Coherent States in SU(4) of Spin Systems and Calculate the Berry Phase for Qudit with Spin 3/2 particle in SU(4) in Quantum Mechanics. Biological Forum – An International Journal 6(2): 393-397. \r\n '),(4763,'120','Coherent States in SU(2), SU(3), SU(4), SU(5) of Spin Systems and Calculate the Berry phase for Qubit, Qutrit, Qudit with spin – 1/2,1,3/2,2 particle in SU(2) in Quantum Mechanics','Yadollah Farahmand, Zabialah Heidarnezhad, Fatemeh Heidarnezhad,\r\nFatemeh Heydari and Kh. Kh Muminov\r\n','67 YADOLLAH FARAHMAND @ ZIBIALAH.pdf','',1,'In this paper, we develop the formulation of the spin coherent state in real parameterization SU(2), SU(3), SU(4), SU(5). We obtain Berry phase from Schrodinger equation. For vector states, basic kets are coherent states in real parameterization. We calculate Berry phase for qubit, qutrit, qudit with spin S = 1/2,1, 3/2,2 in SU(2) group and Berry phase.','quantum mechanics; coherent state; SU(n) group ; Hexadecimal pole moment; Berry phase.','We conclusion that result in two different base ketis similar. Berry phase application in optic, magnetic resonance, molecular and atomic physics [12,13].','In 1984 Berry published a paper which has until now deeply influenced the physical community. In mechanics (including classical mechanics as well as quantum mechanics), the Geometric phase, or the Pancharatnam-Berry phase (named after S. Pancharatnam and Sir Michael Berry), also known as the Pancharatnam phase or, morecom monly, Berry phase (Pancharatnam, 1956), Therein he considers cyclic evolutions of systems under special conditions, namely adiabatic ones. He finds that an additional phase factor occurs in contrast to the well-known dynamical phase factor is a phase acquired over the course of a cycle, when the system is subjected to cyclic adiabatic processes, resulting from the geometrical properties of the parameter space of the Hamiltonian. Apart from quantum mechanics, it arises in a variety of other wave systems, such as classical optics. As a rule of thumb, it occurs whenever there are at least two parameters affecting a wave, in the vicinity of some sort of singularity or some sort of hole in the topology. In non-relativistic quantum mechanics, the state of a system is described by the vector of the Hilbert space (the wave function) ∈ H which depends on time and some set of other variables depending on the considered problem. \r\nThe evolution of a quantum system in time t is described by the Schrodinger equation.\r\nWe consider a quantum system described by a Hamiltonian H that depends on a multidimensional real parameter R which parameterizes the environment of the system. The time evolution is described by the time dependent Schrodinger equation \r\nH(R(t) )|ψ(t) ┤ ├ ┤⟩=iℏ ∂/∂t |ψ(t) ┤ ├ ┤⟩ (1)\r\nWe can choose at any instant a basis of eigen states |n(R(t))┤ ├ ┤⟩for the Hamiltonian labelled by the quantum number n such that the eigen value equation is fulfilled \r\nH(R(t) )|n(R(t))┤ ├ ┤⟩=E_N (R(t) )|n(R(t) ) ┤ ├ ┤⟩ …(2)\r\nWe assume that the energy spectrum of H is discrete, that the eigen values are not degenerated and that no level crossing occurs during the evolution. Suppose the environment and therefore R(t) is adiabatically varied, that means the changes happen slowly in time compared to the characteristic time scale of the system. The system starts in the nth energy eigen state\r\n|ψ(0) ┤ ├ ┤⟩=|n(R(0))┤ ├ ┤⟩ (3)\r\n \r\n \r\n\r\n\r\n Farahmand, Heidarnezhad, Heidarnezhad, Fatemeh Heydari and Muminov 405\r\nThen according to the adiabatic theorem the system stays over the whole evolution in the nth eigen state of the instant Hamiltonian. But it is possible that the state gains some phase factor which does not affect the physical state. Therefore the state of the system can be written as\r\n|ψ(t) ┤ ├ ┤⟩=e^(iφ_n ) |n(R(t))┤ ├ ┤⟩ (4)\r\nOne would expect that this phase factor is identical with the dynamical phase factorθ_nwhich is the integral over the energy eigenvalues\r\nθ_n (t)=-1/ℏ ∫_0^t▒〖E_n (t^\' ) 〗 dt^\' (5)\r\nbut it is not forbidden by the adiabatic theorem and the Schrodinger equation to add another term Θ_nwhich is called the Berry phase (Yadollah 2014)\r\nφ_n (t)=θ_n (t)+Θ_n (t) (6)\r\nWe can determine this additional term by inserting the an sat z (4) together with equation (6) into the Schrodinger equation (1). This yields with the simplifying notation R ≡ R(t)\r\n∂/∂t |nR(t) ┤ ├ ┤⟩+i d/dt Θ_n (t)|nR(t) ┤ ├ ┤⟩=0 (7)\r\nAfter taking the inner product (which should be normalized) with |nR(t) ┤ ├ ┤⟩we get\r\nd/dt Θ_n (t)=i⟨nR(t)│∂/∂t│nR(t) ⟩ (8)\r\n\r\nd/dt Θ_n (t)=i⟨nR(t)│∇_R│nR(t) ⟩ dR/dt (9)\r\nand after the integration\r\n\r\nΘ_n (t)=i∫_(R_i)^(R_i)▒⟨nR(t)│∇_R│nR(t) ⟩ dR (10)\r\n\r\nwhere we introduced the notation\r\n\r\nA_k=i⟨ϕ│∂_k ϕ⟩ (12)\r\nThen the total change in the phase of the wave function is equal to the integra\r\nφ_n=-1/ℏ ∫_0^t▒E_n dt^\'+Θ_B (13)\r\nΘ_B=∮_λ▒〖dλ^k A_k 〗 (14)\r\nThe respective local form of the curvature has only two nonzero components:\r\nThe expression for the Berry phase (14) can be rewritten as a surface integral of the components of the local curvature form. Using Stokes formulae, we obtain the following expression\r\nΘ_B=1/2 ∬_S▒〖dλ^k×dλ^l F_kl (15)〗\r\nwhere S is a surface in R^3and F_kl=∂_k A_l-∂_l A_k are components of the local curvature form .\r\nBerrys phase for coherent state in SU(2) group for a spin 1/2 particle (qubit)\r\nFor construction coherent state in SU(2), we consider the reference state as〖(1,0)〗^T, the general form of coherent state in this group we obtain form the following formula (10):\r\n|ψ┤ ├ ┤⟩=e^(-iφS^z ) e^(-iθS^y ) |0┤ ├ ┤⟩=C_0 |0┤ ├ ┤⟩+C_1 |1┤ ├ ┤⟩ (16)\r\nThat\r\nC_0=〖cos(〗⁡〖θ/2〗)e^(-iφ) C_1=sin⁡〖(θ/2) (17)〗\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\n Farahmand, Heidarnezhad, Heidarnezhad, Fatemeh Heydari and Muminov 406\r\nWe calculate the Berry phase for a spin 1/2 particle in non-relativistic quantum mechanics. A coherent state for spin 1/2 particle is described by the following function [8]:\r\nψ=(■(〖cos(〗⁡〖θ/2〗)e^(-iφ)@sin⁡〖(θ/2)〗 )) (18)\r\nThis eigen function are normalized on unit,\r\n⟨ϕ│ϕ⟩=1 (19)\r\nThe corresponding solution of the Schrodinger equation is\r\nψ=e^iΘ ϕ (20)\r\nwhere the phase Θ satisfies. Component of the local connection formA_k=i⟨ϕ│∂_k ϕ⟩ for the eigenstate ϕ are easily calculated\r\nA_θ=i⟨ϕ│∂_θ ϕ⟩=(■(〖cos(〗⁡〖θ/2〗)e^(+iφ)&sin⁡〖(θ/2)〗 ))(■(-1/2sin⁡(θ/2)e^(-iφ)@1/2cos⁡(θ/2)))=0 \r\n\r\nA_φ=i⟨ϕ│∂_φ ϕ⟩=i(■(〖cos(〗⁡〖θ/2〗)e^(+iφ)&sin⁡〖(θ/2)〗 ))(■(-icos⁡(θ/2)e^(-iφ)@0))=〖cos〗^2 (θ/2)\r\n\r\nA_λ=0 (21)\r\n\r\nF_θφ=∂_θ A_φ-∂_φ A_θ=-sin⁡(θ/2) cos⁡(θ/2)=-1/2 sinθ=-F_φθ (22)\r\n\r\nNow we calculate the Berry phase for a closed curve in the parameter spaceλ=λ(t),\r\nΘ_B=∮_λ▒〖dλ^k A_k=〗 1/2 ∬_S▒〖dλ^k×dλ^l F_kl 〗=∬_S▒〖dθ×dφF_θφ=-1/2 ∬▒〖dθ×dφsinθ=〗〗-1/2 ∫▒〖(1-cosθ)〗 dφ=-1/2 Ω(λ) (23)\r\nWhere S is a surface in R^3with the boundary λ(t) and Ω(λ) is the solidangle of a surface S as it looks from the origin of the coordinate system. This result does not depend on how parameters depend on time.\r\nWe also calculate the Berry phase for a spin-1 particle in SU(2) in non relativistic quantum mechanics.\r\nA. Berrys phase for coherent state in SU(2) group for a spin 1 particle (qutrit)\r\nWe consider reference state as 〖(1,0,0)〗^Tfor a spin-1 particle (qutrit) in SU(3) in nonrelativistic quantum mechanics. Coherent state in real parameter in this group is in the following form [9]:\r\n\r\n|ψ┤ ├ ┤⟩=D^(1/2) (θ,φ) e^(-iγS^z ) e^(2igQ ̂^xy ) |0┤ ├ ┤⟩=C_0 |0┤ ├ ┤⟩+C_1 |1┤ ├ ┤⟩ 〖+C〗_2 |2┤ ├ ┤⟩ (24)\r\n\r\nD^(1/2) (θ,φ)=e^(-iφS^z ) e^(-iθS^y ) (25)\r\nQuadrupole moment is\r\n\r\nQ ̂^xy=1/4i (S^+ S^+-S^- S^- )=i/2 [■(0@0@-1 )■(0@0@0)├ ■(1@0@0)] (26)┤\r\nIf we expand exponential terms in coherent state, obtain coefficients:\r\nC_0=e^iφ (e^(-iγ) 〖(Sin〗^2 θ/2)Cosg+e^iγ 〖(Cos〗^2 θ/2)Sing)\r\nC_1=Sinθ/√2 (e^(-iγ) Cosg-e^iγ Sing)\r\nC_2=e^(-iφ) (e^(-iγ) 〖(Cos〗^2 θ/2)Cosg+e^iγ 〖(Sin〗^2 θ/2)Sing) (27)\r\nTwo angle, θ andφ , define the orientation of the classical spin vector.The angle γ is the rotation of the quadrupole moment about the spin vector. The parameter, g, defines change of the spin vector magnitude and that of the mquadrupole moment.\r\n\r\n\r\n Farahmand, Heidarnezhad, Heidarnezhad, Fatemeh Heydari and Muminov 407\r\nCoherent state for spin-1 in real parameter is in the following form (5):\r\nIf we go from SU(3) group to SU(2), we mustγ=0 ,g=0and in this condition we obtain equations of SU(2) group.\r\n\r\n(■(e^iφ (〖Sin〗^2 θ/2)@Sinθ/√2@e^(-iφ) (〖Cos〗^2 θ/2) )) (29)\r\n\r\nIf we consider solution of the Schrodinger equation similar to equation(16), then component of the local connection formF_kl=∂_k A_l-∂_l A_k for the eigen-state φ are easily calculated\r\nA_θ=i⟨ϕ│∂_θ ϕ⟩=0 ,A_λ=0 ,A_φ=Cosθ (30)\r\nAnd components of the local form of the curvature are\r\n\r\nF_θφ=∂_θ A_φ-∂_φ A_θ=-F_φθ=-Sinθ (31)\r\nNow we calculate the Berry phase for a closed curve in the parameter spaceλ=λ(t),\r\nΘ_B=∮_λ▒〖dλ^k A_k=〗 1/2 ∬_S▒〖dλ^k×dλ^l F_kl 〗=∬_S▒〖dθ×dφF_θφ=-∬▒〖dθ×dφsinθ=〗〗-∫▒〖(1-cosθ)〗 dφ=-Ω(λ) (32)\r\nWhere S is a surface in R^3with the boundary λ(t) and Ω(λ) is the solidangle of a surface S as it looks from the origin of the coordinate system.\r\n\r\nB. Berrys phase for coherent state in SU(2) group for a spin 3/2 particle (qudit)\r\n\r\nWe consider reference state as 〖(1,0,0,0)〗^Tfor a spin-3/2 particle (qudit) in SU(4) in non-relativistic quantum mechanics. Coherent state in real parameter in this group is in the following form [10,11]\r\n|ψ┤ ├ ┤⟩=D^1 (θ,φ,γ) e^(2igQ ̂^xy ) e^(-i〖βS〗^z ) e^(-ikF ̂^xyz ) |0┤ ├ ┤⟩=C_0 |0┤ ├ ┤⟩+C_1 |1┤ ├ ┤⟩ 〖+C〗_2 |2┤ ├ ┤⟩ 〖+C〗_3 |3┤ ├ ┤⟩ (33)\r\n\r\nwhere |0i is reference state and\r\nD^1 (θ,φ,γ)=e^(-iφS^z ) e^(-iθS^y ) e^(-iγS^z ) (34)\r\nis Wigner function. Quadrupole moment is\r\nQ ̂^xy=1/(4√3 i) (S^+ S^+-S^- S^- )=i/2 [├ ■(0 0 1 0@0 0 0 1@■(-1 0 0 0 @0 -1 0 0))] (35)┤\r\nOctupole moment is\r\nF ̂^xyz=1/6i (S^+ S^+ S^+-S^- S^- S^- )=1/i [├ ■(0 0 0 1@0 0 0 0@■( 0 0 0 0 @-1 0 0 0))] ┤ (36)\r\n\r\nIf we insert all above calculation in coherent state, obtain:\r\n\r\nC_0=〖A_1 e〗^(3/2 i(φ-γ-β) )-〖A_2 e〗^(i/2 (3φ+γ-3β) )-〖B_1 e〗^(i/2 (3φ-γ+3β) )+〖B_2 e〗^(3/2 i(φ+γ+β) )\r\nC_1=〖A_3 e〗^(3/2 i(φ-γ+β) )-〖A_4 e〗^(i/2 (3φ+γ-3β) )+〖B_3 e〗^(i/2 (φ-γ+3β) )-〖B_4 e〗^(i/2 (φ+3γ+3β) )\r\nC_2=〖〖B^\'〗_4 e〗^((-i)/2 (φ+3γ+3β) )-〖〖B^\'〗_4 e〗^(i/2 (φ-γ+3β) )+〖〖A^\'〗_4 e〗^(-i/2 (φ+γ-3β) )-〖〖A^\'〗_2 e〗^(-i/2 (φ-3γ-3β) )\r\nC_3=〖〖B^\'〗_1 e〗^(-3/2 i(φ+γ+β) )-〖〖B^\'〗_2 e〗^(-i/2 (3φ-γ+3β) )+〖〖A^\'〗_1 e〗^(-3/2 i(φ-γ-β) )-〖〖A^\'〗_2 e〗^(-i/2 (3φ+γ-3β) )\r\nA_1=sin^3⁡(θ/2) cos⁡g sin⁡k,A_1^\'=sin^3⁡(θ/2) cos⁡g cos⁡k\r\n\r\n\r\n Farahmand, Heidarnezhad, Heidarnezhad, Fatemeh Heydari and Muminov 408\r\n\r\nA_2=√3 sin⁡〖(θ/2) cos^2⁡(θ/2) 〗 sin⁡g sin⁡〖k ,〗 A_2^\'=√3 sin⁡〖(θ/2) cos^2⁡(θ/2) 〗 sin⁡g cos⁡k\r\n\r\nA_3=√3 sin^2⁡〖(θ/2) cos⁡(θ/2) 〗 cos⁡g sin⁡〖k 〗\r\nA_4=cos⁡(θ)⁡cos^2⁡(θ/2) sin⁡g sin⁡〖k ,〗 A_4^\'=cos⁡(θ)⁡cos^2⁡(θ/2) sin⁡g cos⁡k\r\n\r\nB_1=√3 sin^2⁡〖(θ/2) cos⁡(θ/2) 〗 sin⁡g cos⁡〖k ,〗 B_1^\'=√3 〖sin〗^2⁡〖(θ/2) cos⁡(θ/2) 〗 sin⁡g sin⁡k\r\n\r\nB_2=cos^3⁡(θ/2) cos⁡g cos⁡k,B_2^\'=cos^3⁡(θ/2) cos⁡g sin⁡k\r\nB_3=sin⁡(θ)⁡〖(2-3 sin^2⁡〖(θ/2))〗 〗 sin⁡g cos⁡〖k (37)〗\r\nB_4=√3 sin⁡〖(θ/2) cos^2⁡(θ/2) 〗 cos⁡g cos⁡〖k ,〗 B_4^\'=√3 sin⁡〖(θ/2) cos^2⁡(θ/2) 〗 cos⁡g sin⁡k\r\n\r\nIf we go from SU(4) group to SU(3), we must g = 0, β=0and in equations\r\nk → g in this condition we obtain equations of SU(3) group.\r\nIf we go from SU(4) group to SU(2), we must g = 0, β=0 \\,γ=0 ,k=0 in this condition we obtain equations of SU(2) group.\r\n(■(cos^3⁡(θ/2) e^(3/2 iφ)@√3 sin⁡〖(θ/2) cos^2⁡(θ/2) e^(i/2 φ) 〗@■(0@-sin^3⁡〖(θ/2) e^(-3/2 iφ) 〗 ))) (38)\r\nA_θ=i⟨ϕ│∂_θ ϕ⟩=-3/2 sin^3⁡〖(θ/2) cos^3⁡〖(θ/2)+3/2〗 cos^⁡(θ/2) 〗 sin^5⁡(θ/2) ,〖 A〗_λ=0 ,A_φ=3/2 (⁡cos^6⁡〖(θ/2)-sin^6⁡(θ/2))+3/2〗 sin^2⁡〖(θ/2) cos^4⁡(θ/2) 〗 (39)\r\nAnd components of the local form of the curvature are\r\n\r\nF_θφ=∂_θ A_φ-∂_φ A_θ=∂_θ A_φ=-F_φθ=3/2 sin^⁡〖(θ/2) cos^5⁡〖(θ/2)+9/2〗 cos^⁡(θ/2) 〗 sin^5⁡〖(θ/2)+〗 3/2 sin^⁡〖(θ/2) cos^3⁡(θ/2) 〗 (40)\r\n\r\nNow we calculate the Berry phase for a closed curve in the parameter space λ=λ(t),\r\nΘ_B=∮_λ▒〖dλ^k A_k=〗 1/2 ∬_S▒〖dλ^k×dλ^l F_kl 〗=∬_S▒〖dθ×dφF_θφ=∬▒〖dθ×dφ(〗〗 3/2 sin^⁡〖(θ/2) cos^5⁡〖(θ/2)+9/2〗 cos^⁡(θ/2) 〗 sin^5⁡〖(θ/2)+〗 3/2 sin^⁡〖(θ/2) cos^3⁡〖(θ/2))〗 〗….=∫▒〖(1/2 ⁡cos^6⁡〖(θ/2)-3/8 sin^4⁡(θ/2))〗 dφ〗 (41)\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\n Farahmand, Heidarnezhad, Heidarnezhad, Fatemeh Heydari and Muminov 409\r\nC. Berrys phase for coherent state in SU(2) group for a spin 2 particle (qudit)\r\nWe consider reference state as 〖(1,0,0,0,0)〗^Tfor a spin-2 particle (qutrit) in SU(5) in nonrelativistic quantum mechanics. Coherent state in real parameter in this group is in the following form:\r\n|ψ┤ ├ ┤⟩=D^(3/2) (θ,φ,γ) e^(2igQ ̂^xy ) e^(-i〖βS ̂〗^z ) e^(-ikO ̂^xyz ) e^(-i〖mS ̂〗^z ) e^(-i〖nX ̂〗^xyzl ) |0┤ ├ ┤⟩=C_0 |0┤ ├ ┤⟩+C_1 |1┤ ├ ┤⟩ 〖+C〗_2 |2┤ ├ ┤⟩ 〖+C〗_3 |3┤ ├ ┤⟩ 〖+C〗_4 |4┤ ├ ┤⟩ (42)\r\n\r\nWhere|0┤ ├ ┤⟩ is reference state and\r\nD^(3/2) (θ,φ,γ)=e^(-iφS^z ) e^(-iθS^y ) e^(-iγS^z ) (43)\r\n\r\nQuadrupole moment is\r\nQ ̂^xy=i/2 [├ ■(0 0 1 0 0 @■(0 0 0 1 0 @-1 0 0 0 1 @■(0 -1 0 0 0 @0 0 -1 0 0 )))] ┤ (44)\r\n\r\nOctupole moment is\r\nO ̂^xyz=1/12i (S^+ S^+ S^+-S^- S^- S^- )=1/i [├ ■(0 0 0 1 0 @■(0 0 0 0 1 @0 0 0 0 0 @■(-1 0 0 0 0 @0 -1 0 0 0 )))] ┤ (45)\r\nHexadecimalpole moment is\r\n\r\nX ̂^xyz=1/24i (S^+ S^+ S^+ S^+-S^- S^- S^- S^- )=1/i [├ ■(0 0 0 0 1 @■(0 0 0 0 0 @0 0 0 0 0 @■( 0 0 0 0 0 @-1 0 0 0 0 )))] ┤ (46)\r\nIf we expand exponential term in we obtain the following form:\r\n\r\nC_0=-e^2i(β+m) sinn(Ae^2i(φ-γ) f_5+〖Be〗^2i(φ+γ) f_1+〖Ce〗^2iφ f_3 )+cosne^(-2im) (e^(iβ\"\" ) 〖(cosge^i(2φ-γ) f〗_4+〖singe〗^i(2φ+γ) f_2)sink+e^(-2iβ) (〖Be〗^2i(φ-γ) f_5+Ae^2i(φ+γ) f_1-Ce^2iφ f_3)cosk) \r\nC_1=-e^2i(β+m) sinn(Ae^i(φ-2γ) f_4+〖Be〗^i(φ+2γ) f_6+〖Ce〗^iφ f_8 )+cosne^(-2im) (e^(iβ\"\" ) 〖(cosge^i(φ-γ) f〗_9+〖singe〗^i(φ+γ) f_7)sink+e^(-2iβ) (〖Be〗^i(φ-2γ) f_4+Ae^i(φ+2γ) f_6-Ce^iφ f_8)cosk\r\nC_2=-e^2i(β+m) sinn(Ae^(-2iγ) f_3+〖Be〗^2iγ f_3+Cf_10 )\r\n+cosne^(-2im) (e^(iβ\"\" ) 〖(cosge^(-iγ) f〗_8-sin〖ge^iγ f〗_8)sink\r\n+e^(-2iβ) (〖Be〗^2iγ f_3+Ae^(-2iγ) f_3-Cf_10)cosk)\r\nC_3=e^2i(β+m) sinn(Ae^(-i(φ+2γ) ) f_6+〖Be〗^i(-φ+2γ) f_4+〖Ce〗^(-iφ) f_8 )+cosne^(-2im) (e^(iβ\"\" ) 〖(cosge^(-i(φ+γ) ) f〗_7+〖singe〗^i(-φ+γ) f_9 )sink-e^(-2iβ) (〖Be〗^(-i(φ+2γ) ) f_6+Ae^i(-φ+2γ) f_4-Ce^(-iφ) f_8)cosk)\r\n\r\nC_4=-e^2i(β+m) sinn(Ae^(-2i(φ+γ) ) f_1+〖Be〗^2i(-φ+γ) f_5+〖Ce〗^(-2iφ) f_3 )+cosne^(-2im) (e^(iβ\"\" ) 〖(-cosge^(-i(2φ+γ) ) f〗_2-〖singe〗^i(-2φ+γ) f_4)sink+e^(-2iβ) (〖Be〗^(-2i(φ+γ) ) f_1+Ae^2i(-φ+γ) f_5-Ce^(-2iφ) f_3)cosk)\r\n\r\nA=1/2(1+cos⁡〖√2 g) ,〗 B=1/2(1-cos⁡〖√2 g) ,C=sin⁡〖√2 g〗/√2〗\r\n\r\nf_1=1-θ^2/2+〖5θ〗^4/48-(17θ^6)/1440+(13θ^8)/16128-(257θ^10)/7257600……\r\n \r\n Farahmand, Heidarnezhad, Heidarnezhad, Fatemeh Heydari and Muminov 410\r\n\r\nf_2=-θ+〖5θ〗^3/12-〖17θ〗^5/240+(13θ^7)/2016-(257θ^9)/725760 ……\r\nf_3=1/2 √(3/2) θ^2-θ^4/(2√6)+θ^6/(15√6)-θ^8/(210√6)+θ^10/(4725√6)……\r\nf_4=-θ^3/4+θ^5/16-θ^7/160+(17θ^9)/48384- ……\r\nf_5=θ^4/16-θ^6/96+θ^8/1280-(17θ^10)/483840+ ……\r\n\r\nf_6=θ-〖5θ〗^3/12+(17θ^5)/240-〖13θ〗^7/2016+(257θ^9)/7257760- ……\r\n \r\nf_7=1-〖5θ〗^3/4+(17θ^5)/48-〖13θ〗^6/288+(257θ^8)/80640-(41θ^10)/290304 ……\r\nf_8=-√(3/2) θ+√(2/3) θ^3-1/5 √(2/3) θ^5-2/105 √(2/3) θ^7-1/945 √(2/3) θ^9 ……\r\n\r\nf_9=〖3θ〗^2/4-〖5θ〗^4/16+(7θ^6)/160-(17θ^8)/5376+(341θ^10)/2419200 ……\r\nf_10=1-〖3θ〗^2/2+θ^4/2-θ^6/15+θ^8/210-θ^10/4725 …… (47)\r\n\r\nIf we go from SU(5) group to SU(2), we must β=0,g=0\\,γ=0,k=0,m=0 ,n=0 in this condition we obtain equations of SU(2) group.\r\n(■(1/2(f_5+f_1)e^2iφ@1/2(f_4+f_6)e^iφ@■(f_3@-1/2(f_6+f_4)e^(-iφ)@1/2(f_1+f_5)e^(-2iφ) ))) (48)\r\nA_θ=i⟨ϕ│∂_θ ϕ⟩=1/4 f_5 ∂_θ f_5+1/4 f_5 ∂_θ f_1+1/4 f_4 ∂_θ f_5+1/4 f_1 ∂_θ f_1 ,〖 A〗_λ=0 ,〖 A〗_φ=0 (49)\r\nAnd components of the local form of the curvature are\r\n\r\nF_θφ=∂_θ A_φ-∂_φ A_θ=-F_φθ=0 (50)\r\n\r\nNow we calculate the Berry phase for a closed curve in the parameter spaceλ=λ(t),\r\nΘ_B=∮_λ▒〖dλ^k A_k=〗 1/2 ∬_S▒〖dλ^k×dλ^l F_kl 〗=∬_S▒〖dθ×dφF_θφ=〗 0 (51)\r\n \r\nDISCUSSION\r\nGeometric phases are important in quantum physics and are now central to fault tolerant quantum computation. We have presented a detailed analysis of geometrical phase that can arise within general representations of coherent states in real parameterization in SU(2). As coherent state in SU(3) group with γ=0,g=0 convert to coherent state in SU(2). \r\nAs coherent state in SU(4) group with γ=0,g=0,γ=0 ,k=0convert to coherent state in SU(2), As coherent state in SU(5) group with γ=0,g=0,γ=0 ,k=0,m=0,n=0convert to coherent state in SU(2), Berry phase also change in similar method. We can continues this method to obtain Berry phase in SU(N) group, where N ≥ 3. We can also obtain Berry phase from complex variable base ket.\r\n','Yadollah Farahmand, Zabialah Heidarnezhad, Fatemeh Heidarnezhad,\r\nFatemeh Heydari and Kh. Kh Muminov (2014). Coherent States in SU(2), SU(3), SU(4), SU(5) of Spin Systems and Calculate the Berry phase for Qubit, Qutrit, Qudit with spin – 1/2,1,3/2,2 particle in SU(2) in Quantum Mechanics.Biological Forum – An International Journal 6(2): 404-411. \r\n'),(4764,'120','Investigation of the statue of visitor′s willing to pay Shiraz Eram Botanical Gardens and its influencing factors','Seyednematollah Mousavi','70 SEYEDNEMATOLLAH MOUSAVI.pdf','',1,'Place of an urban green spaces and recreational sites is important at leisure and creating emotional happiness of citizens. The purpose of this study is to determine the amusement value of the Eram Botanical Gardens of Shiraz and measure the visitor′s willingness to pay for the garden and leisure of the province. To calculate this value, the contingent valuation method (CVM) was used. Average willingness to pay was estimated by using Logit model based on maximum likelihood by numerical integration. Required data were collected through questionnaires and interviews from 200 visits from the area in 2013. The results showed that the visitors have to pay 34, 484 dollars for a daily use and annual benefit of the Eram Botanical Gardens is about 13,121, 264,735 dollars. The results also indicated that the proposed rates, daily study, the duration of the garden and income that are statistically significant at the one percent are the most important factors influencing the willingness to pay for conservation and use of the garden and education level and garden quality variables are next factors influencing the willingness to pay. Therefore, based on the findings of this study, it is recommended that planners and managers to develop tourism and increase the number of visitors and tourists, and also enhance the welfare of visitors, pay more attention to these places.\r\nClassification JEL: Q56, Q51, C52\r\n','Eram Botanical Garden, Contingent valuation, willingness to pay, logit model. ','In terms of management, this study has achieved promising results. First, it shows that people are aware of the importance of natural resources and the National Gardens. Second, the willingness to pay substantial support for the improvement and development of these resources are available. This provides a rationale for policy makers and officials to protect the quality of the environment and natural resources and prevent low and downplay of the gardens due to the lack of support by the government. The results showed that the variables offers, daily study, the time of using the garden and incomes have statistically significant effect on the willingness to pay. Also the variables education level and the quality of garden are the second factors affecting the willingness to pay. According to the results and findings the following recommendations to appreciate the entertainment value of the Eram Botanical Gardens logo and the protection of places of entertainment is offered: \r\n1. Based on the positive effect of the variables time of using the Garden and the quality of Eram Botanical garden on the acceptance of entrance to the garden, on the other hand due to the high value given to the visits from the amusement places and spending more time in these environments by people, it is necessary that the planners and managers to have more attention on this subject and help more by increasing the suitable services for the families in order to further enhance the welfare of invocations. It is recommended that the maintenance and improvement of the garden according to the willingness to pay of visitors be a priority for authorities. \r\n2. The average of calculated willingness to pay can be the scientific base for determination of the entrance to the Eram Botanical garden. If we act to logical demands of the visitors, solve the garden problems and make the necessary charm, visitors would be happy to pay. Since the WTP obtained, is 27/34484 Rials and it is 7/1 times more than the price of the entry fee (20,000 dollars) so officials can provide the costs associated with upgrading the logo and create required charm by increasing the entrance to the garden. \r\n3. Estimated recreational value of Eram Botanical Garden as a part of economic value of the garden, can justify the investment and measures to protect and prevent potential threats such as erosion and degradation. So it is suggested that officials and planners to consider the Garden.\r\n','Today, although economists consider the consumption of natural resources more (including direct use value, such as revenues from tourism), the non-utilizable value (recreational activities, environmental and ecological services) natural resource is increasingly under assessment and recognition (Christrom, 1999). Of the non-utilizable values can be pointed to the value of natural ecosystem satisfaction, often regarded as the recreational value of an ecosystem.\r\nAccordingly, more than direct economic benefits of environmental resources, the indirect benefits are numerous and considered, so the lack of understanding of the functions and services produced by these sources is a serious danger to society and can ignore their social and environmental impact and destroy them ultimately. The degradation of environmental resources, the quality and quantity of services that accrue to society through them is reduced. Therefore, knowledge of the benefits that the degradation of environmental resources can put them out of reach of the community creates the motivation in the community to protect them. In other words, the non-utilizable value of natural resources has led to willingness to pay for environmental conservation (Amir Nejad, et al., 2009). Accordingly, the value of the willingness to pay (WTP) to protect the \r\npopulation of the place, the legacy of the WTP to protect the desired location for the benefit of future generations and the value of selection as WTP to protect them, for possible future opportunities and consumer activities are defined. Recreational value to the desired location as value of consumption include the use of space for recreation, leisure and entertainment, hiking and such uses (Khaksar Astaneh et al., 2010).\r\nTo the management and sustainable use of environmental resources, the cost-benefit analysis of projects, resource conservation, and social assessment of damages resulting from the degradation of environmental resources (Farber et al., 2006), providing a useful tool for policy makers to explain the importance of resources (bank WHO, 2005), Establishing the relationship between economic policies and interests of environmental resources (Tysdl, 2005) and investment prioritize in environmental resources such as water, forests, sea, mountains and other natural sources (World Bank, 2005), it is necessary that the benefits of environmental resources be measured and valued in an understandable way ( Turner et al., 1374). Urban green spaces and parks, including natural resources are important functions that in addition to the environmental, provide tangible and intangible social and economic benefits for many human (Chaysvra, 2004).\r\n \r\n\r\n Mousavi 422\r\n \r\nIn Iran numerous natural and artificial ecosystems such as forests, national parks and green spaces cause urban growth and development of domestic and foreign tourism. Eram Botanical Garden of Shiraz that increases the attractiveness of the urban landscape as one of the tourist and recreational visitor\'s attention attracts many tourists every year. Among the factors that can indicate the people\'s attitudes toward the urban promenade, it is the value that visitors are allowed to visit and use of this resort. This value as direct benefits of the resort is part of the stated amounts expressed their willingness to pay.\r\nGiven the importance of the garden, the present study conducted to determine the factors affecting the willingness to pay to protect it and estimates each family’s annual average willingness to pay to preserve these recreational sites. In the end, the amusement-conversational value of Eram Botanical Gardens of Shiraz that is one of the rare and unique gardens of the country and even the world and has potential and actual abilities will be determined per hectare of garden. \r\nAn economic valuation of Eram Botanical Garden to identify and understand the value of it is the step towards solving problems in the conservation and development of the sector. Check it may be a useful guide for policy makers and planners of cultural heritage in order to determine the appropriate price entry fee to visit this place, the cost of providing tourism and recreation services, repair and building infrastructure and evaluation of conservational policy and preserve this art. \r\nREVIEW OF LITERATURE\r\nThe idea of assessing the mall is seriously pursued from 1974 on. Contingent valuation method CVM first proposed in 1947 by Chris and Vanrvp (Fattahi, 1389), but Davis for the first time in 1963, used the method empirically ( Vnkatachalam, 2003). \r\nUsing contingent valuation to estimate the recreational value is very common in foreign studies. But in developing countries due to government intervention in economic activity, the valuation is more limited than in developed countries.\r\nA. Foreign studies on the valuation of natural resources\r\nMany studies on the value of ecosystem protection and recreation areas have been conducted abroad. Chen et al., (2004), conducted a study to evaluate the recreational value of a coastal area along the eastern coast of the Zhyamn island of China by using Travel Cost Method. Based on the results of this study, the total monthly value of the beach and places of recreation estimated more than $ 53 million USA dollars. Jens and Zandrsvn (2005), examines the value of forest Recreation Park in East Europe using travel costs paid. Based on the results of this study, the average income for each one of local residents for entry of tourists into the region estimated $ 122 in a month. Lvmys et al., (2007), by using the contingent valuation method, estimated the average willingness to pay for the Caribbean National Forest in Puerto Rico. The results show that the averaged willingness to pay was $ 29. Bidding variables and the number of tables in the amusement park with a negative coefficient and road appeared as effective factors on access to the area with a positive coefficient in the estimation of the model. Nabiin et al., (2008), using contingent valuation method and logit model began to assess the value of the recreational area of Napomay Nepal. Based on the results of this study, the mean willingness of the visitors to pay to protect the region was $ 2/69. Also indicated that the proposed price, size of household, visitor′s satisfaction, use the Help and size of these variables affect the willingness to pay. Bekly and colleagues (2011), in a study used contingent valuation method for estimating the amount of visitor′s willing to pay for infrastructure development and improvement of upland and lowland pasture and showed that visitors were willing to pay 9.08 and 12.22 pounds to the Highlands and lowlands on average.\r\nB. Studies on the valuation of natural resources\r\nSo far the evaluation of resorts has not been done such as developed countries yet. The reason for this can be searched in the small background of resort scientific management run (Zebardast et al., 2010). Zebardast et al., (2010) in a study to determine the non-utilizable values of Anzali wetland used contingent valuation method. To economically evaluate the wetland using econometric techniques with Logit model began to estimate the maximum willingness to pay based on the suggested values. Based on this the respondent’s maximum willingness to pay for an indefinite period of time that had discounted currently, was estimated 8803.92 tomans annually. HashemNejad et al (2011) in the study by measuring the index of consumer′s willingness to pay in Forest Park using contingent valuation method and dual questionnaire determined the recreational park value. The results indicated that the mean willingness to pay of visitors for this part is 3875 rials per visiting. Haiati and Khan Boldi Pour (2012) studied the recreational value of Ghori-gol wetland using contingent valuation method. Based on the results of this study, 81 percent of the visitors were ready to pay money to recreational use of the wetland. Also education level, household income, the amount of information on wetlands and hours of attendance has positive and significant effect age, price and distance to the location of the pond has a significant negative effect on the probability of visitor′s willingness to pay. \r\n \r\n\r\n\r\n\r\n Mousavi 423\r\n \r\nThe individual’s average willingness to pay for each visiting 7430 Rials and annual recreational value of GhoriGol wetland 743 million rials was estimated. Rafat and Mousavi (2013) in a study determined the recreational value of Hahst-Behesht Park of Esfahan and visitor′s willingness to pay by using contingent valuation method. Based on the results of this study individual income, household income, education, quality of parks, great environment and the type of housing have a positive effect on the willingness of visitors to use the environment pleasant. Also indicated that age and the distance between the house and park, have negative relationship with the willingness of individuals to pay. The average of willingness to pay of each visitor for the recreational value of this park obtained 2618 rials per visiting. The average willingness to annual pay of each family for visiting the park was estimated 106.8 rials. \r\nTHE METHODOLOGY \r\nA. Data\r\n the visitors of Eram Botanical garden of Shiraz were selected as statistical society. The number of samples was determined by using a simple random sampling of 200 patients who were visiting and completing the questionnaires. Research questionnaires during a three month period in 2013 were collected as the sample. To analyze the data SHAZAM and SPSS software package were used. \r\nB. Contingent valuation method\r\n In this study contingent valuation method was used. In this method to determine the economic value of goods and environmental services it is necessary to refer to people. Using the results, People′s willingness to pay WTP under certain hypothetical market scenarios will be specified (Li, 1997). Because of this the mostly call the contingent valuation method as preference method (Venkatachlam, 2003). In view of the current economic value is introduced as the degree of human preference. With regard to this way of thinking, using the questionnaire and observation of behavior can inform of the willingness to pay for non-market environmental services (Amyrnzhad et al., 1388). This study was conducted to measure the contingent valuation by using the dual two-dimensional questionnaire method. Dual selection method supposes a person has a utility function in equation (1) and (Amyrnzhad et al., 1388).\r\n(1) U(Y,S)\r\nIn equation (1), U is the indirect utility that is obtained for each person. S is the social-economic characteristics of persons (age, sex, education level, number of households, ….) that are influenced by personal manners. Y is the family income. Each visitor is ready to pay money for using the environmental resource as a suggested amount (A) that this usage will cause utility for him. To determine the measure of willingness to pay, it is assumed that the responsive person accepts or rejects the proposed amount for the recreational values of desired location on the maximizing its utility under condition (2):\r\n(2)\r\n \r\nIn equation (2), 0 means that the person doesn’t visit the place and 1 means that the person visits the garden. ε0 and ε1 are random variables with mean zero that are set equally and independent (kin et al, 2007). The difference created in the utility (ΔU) because of using the environmental resource can be expressed as equations (3) and (4) (Li and Han, 2002).\r\n(3)\r\n \r\n(4)\r\n∆U= ∝+βA+γY+θS\r\nA. The model used in this study: In this study, the Logit model (5) to determine the effect of different explanatory variables on the willingness to pay in order to determine the eco-tourist value of the Eram Botanical Gardens. According to the logit model, the probability (the responder accepts an offer), the relation (5) is expressed (Hvars and Farber, 2002): \r\n (5)\r\n \r\nIn which is a cumulative distribution function with a standard logistic difference and included some socio-economic variables such as income, the proposed amount, age, gender and education in this research. β, γ and are the estimated coefficients of the variables; proposed amount, income and socio-economic characteristics of individuals and it is expected that , and β ≤ 0 Logit model parameters have been estimated using the maximum likelihood estimation technique that is the only method for estimating the logit model (Jadj et al., 1988). Then the expected value of the willingness to pay by numerical integration in the range of zero to the highest bidder (M) was calculated according to equation (6) (Lee and Han, 2002):\r\n \r\n\r\n\r\n Mousavi 424\r\n \r\n(6)\r\n \r\nIn which E(WTP) is the expect to pay and is the adjusted intercept that is added to the main intercept by socio-economic clause and is defined as follows: \r\n(7)\r\n∝^*= ∝+ γY+θS\r\nThe estimated coefficients of the model have no direct economic interpretation. Thus the coefficients that are famous among economists are the effects of the final stretch. To assess the effects of each take partial derivative of equation (5) to obtain the final result (Jaj et al., 1988). To calculate the main weight tension variable, final result must be multiplied by the average of the variable (Tarshizi and salami, 1386) and finally the elasticity of my kth explanatory variable in the equation (8) is obtained as follows (Jaj et al., 1988): \r\n(8)\r\nThe elasticity of each explanatory variable indicates that the one percent change in (Xk) leads to multi-percent change in success probability of dependent variable (Yi = 1). \r\nRESULTS AND DISCUSSION\r\nIn this section, the descriptive statistics of the variables used in the model is expressed, then the results of the Logit model estimating brought and finally the status of the willingness to pay of visitors to the Eram Botanical Gardens was evaluated. In the next section, descriptive statistics was expressed for a range of personal and economic characteristics of visitors including: age, individual income, education level, etc. summarized in Table 1. Based on the table, the mean statistic sample age is 31 years. Thus, young people are more likely to visit the Eram Botanical Gardens. The monthly average income of respondents was 4210.75 and mostly the people with high average income were the visitors. Also the visitors spent 112.4 minutes per visit to use the recreational place. This amount of time indicates the high favor of the visitors to visit the garden because they were likely to spend a long time of their spare time in the garden.\r\nA. The statue of the answer to the amounts proposed for calculating the recreational value of Eram garden \r\nAfter reviewing the findings of descriptive statistics, the willingness of the subjects to pay the amounts to be paid as the entrance to the garden was analyzed and its results briefly stated in Table 2. According to this table, 44.5% of people did not accept the offer and had not any willing to pay a monthly income of 20,000 dollars as cost of entrance to Eram Botanical Garden of Shiraz while 55.5% had accepted it. Then to the people who had refused to pay a lower initial amount the amount lower than the 10,000 dollars was presented. Among them 79.67 percent of people accepted the second amount and 20.32 did not accept. In the third step a higher amount (40000 rials) offered to the people who accepted the initiate cost and among these people 13 percent didn’t accept the third offer and 87 percent accepted. Thus, despite an increase in the amount proposed, yet people are willing to pay to use this entertainment place. \r\nThe results of Logit model: Estimation results were presented in Table 3. The table shows that although age, interest in the environment and sport has the expected signs but they were not statistically significant. The proposed amount of the variable is statistically significant at the one percent level and the sign consistent with expect is negative.\r\nThis shows that the probability of answer yes to pay in higher proposed amounts is less. Estimated coefficient of the income variable is statistically positive at one percent and shows that with the increase of income, the probability of accepting the proposed fee increases. Because with the increase in per capita income the liquidity for daily activities increased and when people have money more than their monthly needs at their disposal, the tendency to use the part of these costs to benefit from the recreational benefits to spend the leisure increases. Education level of the workers is positive and significant at the 10% level. Due to the weight tension, a one percent increase in the education level increases the probability of accepting the willingness to pay 43.8 percent in visits. \r\nThe reasons are the greater awareness of the environmental benefits and protect them and this is the indirect result of increased education and awareness. Because the cultural environment and enhance the quality of gardens including the creation of an environment for studying and training classes can attract educated people in these areas. Quality of garden is also significant at 10% level and has a positive effect on people\'s willingness to pay to visit Eram. So individuals who better assessed the quality of Eram the probability of answer yes to their willingness to pay increases. Variable time is significant at one percent level and has positive effect on people\'s willingness to pay visits to the Eram Garden. If the time of visiting the park increases the person′s willingness to pay visits higher as it allows them to benefit more from the benefits of this garden. Also the coefficients of the imaginary sex are significant with a negative sign at the 5% level. The negative sign indicates that the respondents women, compared with men, are more willing to pay. The variable study is significant at the one percent level and according to its sign, has a positive effect on willingness to pay. Weight tension shows that one percent increase in variable daily study the probability of acceptance to pay visits in each visitor increases 26.7 percent. To assess the significance of the regression estimate of the likelihood ratio statistics (LR) was used. This statistic is significant at one percent level and explanatory variables could well describe the dependent variable. Coefficients of determination Mac Fowden (68/0) showed that the explanatory variables of the model explained well about 68% of the variability in the model. The average willingness to pay visits or in other words recreational value of Eram Botanical Garden was USD 27/34484. This amount shows the optimal price for each visit. Now entrance to Eram is 20,000 rials and the obtained willingness to pay indicates that visitors are given a high value for the garden. According to the number of visitors on holiday and non-holiday in different months, the number of visitors visit the garden throughout the year was estimated about 380,500 (Shiraz Municipality of parks and green space) and by using the calculated expected value of the willingness to pay the total value of recreational garden throughout the year was estimated as follows:\r\nThe annual recreational value of Eram Botanical Garden = (The average of WTP* the average number of visitors) Total value (Rials) (34484.27*380500) =13121264735\r\nSo the Eram Botanical Gardens amusement quarter was 13.1 billion dollars, which in itself is a remarkable figure that indicates the high value of the garden for the visitors and the importance of protecting the garden. However this number shows the total economic value of the garden.\r\n','Seyednematollah Mousavi (2014). Investigation of the statue of visitor′s willing to pay Shiraz Eram Botanical Gardens and its influencing factors. Biological Forum – An International Journal 6(2): 421-427. '),(4765,'120','Spatial, Local Analysis and Evaluation and Possibility of Predicting Crimes and Presenting Strategies by Using the ARCGIS software','Mohammad Hassan Rahmani','72 MOHAMMAD HASSAN RAHMANI FINAL.pdf','',1,'one of the effective methods in this field is the analyzing and identifying the crimes and the effective analysis of data with the help of the ARCGIS software and also the statistical analysis like the clustering method, which is used for identifying the hot places of crime. ARCGIS software analysis and clustering analysis helps groups that are in accordance with several algorithms in collecting data (Everitt, 1974: 44). The purpose of this spatial and local evaluation and analysis is to have the possibility of predicting crimes by using the temporal series models and the ARCGIS software to study the city Qazvin. The research method that has been used in the data analysis of this research is statistical methods and statistical and graphic methods and the software Office/Excel have been used. For graphic and statistical analysis and a combination of the Geographic Information System software have been used. The lateral software (Crime Analysis) is among the software that provides the condition for the possibility of dramatic analysis and analysis associated with delinquency of the centers of uprising crime in the environment Geographic Information System. The second version of the lateral software Crime analysis is also used. The statistical population of this research includes a series of the committed crimes (types of theft). The results of the research will be growing by using the formula of lowest squares of forecast of household robberies in 1392 with a 1.4 percent increase. Household robbery will decrease about 1.2 percent and car theft will increase about 2 percent. It is worth noting that by enhancing the security items and informing, this statistic will decrease; otherwise, given the forecasts that have been done, it will increasingly grow. ','Spatial, Local Analysis and Evaluation, Possibility of Predicting Crimes, Presenting Strategies','The results of the research will be growing by using the formula of lowest squares of forecast of household robberies in 1392 with a 1.4 percent increase. Household robbery will decrease about 1.2 percent and car theft will increase about 2 percent. It is worth noting that by enhancing the security items and informing, this statistic will decrease; otherwise, given the forecasts that have been done, it will increasingly grow. ','Some works that were done with the title of analyzing the places of uprising crime in the Zanjan city for the thesis of the graduate students of geography and urban programming of the same university indicated that it is very good to do this in terms of analysis and works that have been done in the GIS software. And also in Qazvin province, we can refer to the work that has been done by Ms. Elham Abbasi as well, which was entitled identifying and analyzing the centers of uprising crime in the Qazvin city. Theories that explain the relations between society and space: 1. Ancient Greek and Rome: generally, a surprising silence can be observed about the space that man has created in the social theories and philosophy until modern times. Although in the ancient Greek and Rome architecture was efficient, great philosophers such as Plato and Aristotle did not pay much attention to making the principles of philosophy spatial, but unlike these two, great architectures such as \"Vitruvius\" and \"Alberti\" considered the citizens in terms of ethical and aesthetical aspects not in terms of social rights. 2. Emmanuel: from the eighteenth century, the space that was created by humans also shined as an issue in the social theories in Europe. From the philosophical aspect, one of the most sustainable approaches to space in the thoughts of the theorists was done by \"Emmanuel Kant\" (1724 - 1804). He believed in the separation of time and space and distinguishing history and geography. 3. Karl Marx, Max Weber and Emile Durkheim: these great social theorists did not separate the issue of city from the spatial structure or society or the social structure. Although these theorists did not deal with the \"space\" issue directly, and although they explained society with different methods, but they did not express a duality of knowledge about time and space and an independent substance for space. This truth becomes evident due to the fact that they dealt with the subject of city and its issue in the context of social relations. 4. Ernest Burgess (School of Chicago): among the theories that were presented after these three theorists, the school of Chicago or the theory of \"Human Ecology\" was the first cohesive theory. Robert Park, who was one of the main funders of this theory, believed that \"the structure of city is effective in human nature and demonstrates it.\" He divided the population of humans into \"community\" and \"society\". \r\n \r\n \r\n Rahmani 437\r\n \r\nHe believed that the first one is the reflection of biological level and the second one is the reflection of cultural level of humans and he imagined the spatial structure of city in accordance with the human nature or the biological level. Henri Lefebvre, David Harvey and Castells (modern theorists of space and society): Henri Lefebvre (who died in the year 1991) mentions the most political method of dealing with space, \"space is political. Space is not a practical objectivity which is separated from the ideology or politics\". He believed that in the capitalism system, space is like other good. And \"the reproduction of capitalism relations is not in the enterprise, but it is in the space.\" He considered the contrast between the personal interest and social need, between dominance of capitalism and social life in space as the most important manifestation of their contrast. Therefore he believed that by turning to self-management in the space, we can encounter with capitalism. Existence of mutuality and emphasis of modern theorists on space and society: What is mutual among the modern theorists of space is the attempt to revive the approach of the three funders of modern social sciences to space, in terms of its unity with society, and also its unity with the time with the method of \"Einstein\". They believe that space is a fundamental element of society. But they don\'t think that space is entirely the product of the desire of one class. They rather think that just like history or time, space is also the result of fight and conflict of classes and they believe that space includes this interaction as well. 6. Evolutionary theory of cities: the cities, in the works of Simmel and works associated with the school of Chicago, were representatives of a social economical order arising from the industrial capitalism. In these works, an image of the pattern of economical change was drawn implicitly. The city Chicago was especially the chosen representative and reagent of the modern industrial city. And several attempts were done in other industrial cities to implement the concentric circles model (which was designed by Burgess and others had changed it somehow). 7. Four process of the centrality of large industrial city in the urban system: living in the suburbs: it means that the growth of the cities happens more in the suburbs of the towns than in the downtown of the city. Avoiding de-urbanization: it means that the urban population reduces in comparison with the rural and non-urban population. Density and contraction of large cities: it means that we study and understand the city\'s becoming larger and smaller. Growth and increase in new region and reduce in old regions: it means that the new regions disappear under the shade of old regions. (Abbassi, Abbassi Varki, 1389)\r\n\r\nMATERIAL AND METHODS\r\nIn analyzing the data of this research, the statistical methods and graphic and statistical analysis and the Office / Excel software have been used. A combination of the software of the Geographic Information System (GIS) has been used in order for graphic and statistical analysis. It is worth noting that the abilities of the Geographic Information System have been studied in identifying the spatial pattern of centers of uprising crime. The lateral software (Crime Analysis) is among the software that provides the condition for the possibility of dramatic analysis and analysis associated with delinquency of the centers of uprising crime in the environment Geographic Information System. The second version of the lateral software Crime analysis is also designed and presented. The statistical population of this research includes the committed crimes (types of theft) that have occurred during the three years from 1388.1.1 to 1390.12.30 in the range of the central part of the city Qazvin. The topic of the present research is a series of illegal actions and behaviors and disorders that have happened in the range of the central part of the city Qazvin, in the time period of the research with the title of crime. \r\nQUESTIONS OF THE RESEARCH\r\n(i) How are the principles of the clustering model for analyzing and predicting crimes?\r\n(ii) What are the scientific and practical strategies for coping with delinquency and increase of the danger coefficient (risk) of committing a crime in the centers of uprising crimes in the city?\r\n(iii) What are the advantages of the useable local and mathematical models in this discussion?\r\n(iv) How do we find the proper location for creating a new police station (police court)?\r\n(v) What parameters can be useful for mapping the crime and spatial analysis?\r\nFINDINGS OF THE RESEARCH\r\nClustering tests: In the rest of the article, it is necessary for us to take a look at the clustering tests.\r\nA. Medium center\r\n The medium center spot is used as an approximate criterion for comparing the spatial distribution of various types of crime or for investigating the occurrence of a specific crime in various time periods. Measuring the spatial movement is one type of these specific crimes among these crimes. For example the figure (3-4) has been presented as the medium center spot for four data groups that include street robbery, household robbery and crimes related to car and a series of crimes in a hypothetical location. \r\n \r\n\r\n \r\n Rahmani 438\r\n \r\nIn this example, the medium center for the total of crimes has been used as a criterion for comparing the four data groups of types of crimes. The medium center household robbery has higher tendency to go towards north, compared to the medium center of the crimes and the two other crimes. The medium center for the crimes related to car is the southernmost point, in comparison with other crimes and the street robbery, almost like the household robbery is placed in the north of Qazvin, but it slightly goes towards the West. By using the medium center spots, we can say that generally the street robberies and household robberies mostly occur in the northern regions and the crimes associated with car mostly happen in the southern regions (Kalantari, 1390: 48). \r\na. Deviation distance: The index of the standard deviation distance is used for specifying the level and way of distribution of criminal data. This statistics are generally used as a relative index, so that through then we can make the comparison of the types of crimes or the comparison of one type of the crime in different time periods possible. The more the standard deviation distance is, the more the dispersion of the data of delinquency will be (Kalantari, 1390: 24). \r\nb. Oval of standard deviation: The dispersion levels are shown through the oval of standard deviation. The size and shape of the oval determines the rate of dispersion and shows the extension it for the movement of the criminal behaviors. In the figure number (3-4) the oval of standard deviation for the four groups of hypothetical delinquency data has been shown. The slight difference between the ovals indicates the relative difference in the pattern of dispersion of crime in the four data groups of delinquency. The smallest oval is associated with street theft which has the less dispersion among the types of crimes.\r\n The location oval of the street thefts crimes in general and crimes associated with car goes through north and in the south of the oval the household theft has been placed. This pattern of distribution of crimes is similar to the pattern of medium center. The northwest - southeast direction of this oval shows that the main pattern of the street robbery is inclined to which direction (Kalantari, 1390: 28).\r\nIt seems that by taking the elongations of the oval towards the poles into consideration, we find out that the crime distribution in the populated areas and especially crimes such as street robbery, household theft and crimes associated with car is directed towards north, northwest and southeast. Implementation of the proper pattern for drawing the time series\r\nIn this subject, we choose and implement the following steps by using the statistical analysis software, SPSS. \r\nIn order to find the proper model, we use export modeler. This model automatically finds the most proper and fitting model for the associated variable.\r\n \r\nIn this table the standard average and error have been shown, which is a good number, considering the given numbers and them being low. And also other standards show proper numbers as well which include: \r\n-Average of the square of the error : it shows that this series is close to the temporal unit of forecast which is a good number, considering the fact that it is low. \r\n-Average of the percentage of the error : this model changes in comparison to the forecast model, which is a medium number and it shows that the time of the numbers is short and it is necessary for the timer interval to be more, so that it would offer better accuracy. \r\n-Maximum of absolute value of the error : it shows the highest forecast error. The required number is so good and it is less than 50 percent. \r\n-Average of the absolute value of the error: it shows the rate of change, compared to the required level of forecast in which a good number has been presented, given the low number. \r\n-Maximum of the absolute value of the error : it is the highest error of forecast. It is the maximum of lack of confidence which is a medium number and it can be improved, only if the available statistics of the weeks and months increased. \r\n-Informational index of Bic : it is the general index for evaluating the general fitting of the model. It has a punishment for the parameters and it destroys the additional parameters and makes the comparison of the models easier.\r\nFrom comparing the written numbers in the table and the actual numbers, which have been placed in the table following this one as a control, we can refer to this point that there is almost a slight compliance between these numbers and the numbers above them. And we must mention this point that if we increase the number of the month of the statistical analysis, we can achieve a better percentage than the forecast. \r\nIntroducing a site or optimal place for establishment of the types of police units: \r\nAn optimal place for the desired activity: some optimal places with different priorities shall be suggested, so that if there was a problem in the first priority, the next priority would be used. Undoubtedly, finding location is one of the important principles and pillars in the places of uprising crime and the best solution for prevention by the police stations. \r\n1. Criterion for creation of new police stations:\r\nin the respect of choosing the proper location for building a police station was achieved in accordance with the available patterns in Iran\'s police and by paying attention to the determined priority which was obtained in the field of the Qazvin province. It has a different usage in other provinces. It is necessary for it to be designed properly for each class and each province with each type of economical, social and cultural context of it specific aspects. \r\na. Being close to location with the values of center of crisis \r\nb. Appropriate distance from the new police station\r\nc. Being close to the main street\r\nd. Being close to the market (bazaar)\r\ne. Populated regions\r\n \r\nClustering the urban regions of the city Qazvin:\r\nAccording to the rate of the crimes that have occurred with the help of clustering in the ARGCIS software, we have to first define a new project and create Attrtbutes files that contained our required information in the cluster. Finally, the act of clustering has been done and the results for an example have been shown as follows. \r\nThe clustering that has been done in this project is associated with the type of crimes and time and location in which it has been done in the city Qazvin, in which the different colors indicate the rate of the distribution of crimes in various month of a year. By using this analysis, we can have a general view of crimes in the various places and times. \r\n \r\n\r\nPresenting the map of crimes in the city Qazvin:\r\n \r\nIn the following functional use, we have attempted to use clustering analysis, whereas we put the width of the population of cities in the GIS software. The various types of crimes have been put in it and in this section, the oval of the standard deviation has been drawn for it and in the next map, we deal with the division of various domains of crime in these maps by using the tools of clustering:\r\n(The map shows the theft of livestock in the city Qazvin, in the form of population density, from one spot to another, clustering and the oval of standard deviation.)\r\nThe map represents the theft of inside of a car in the city Qazvin, in the form of population density, from spot to spot, clustering and the oval of standard deviation, that the center of the deviation oval is placed in the \"Khayyam\" street and due to the numerous commercial and administrative centers in this region and the number of the cars is very high and the car thieves are encouraged to do theft in these regions. And also those persons, that park their car in the street and the areas around it, believe that in these regions, thieves do not try to steal the car as much due to the numerous cars that are parked, thus the level of security of the car by the owner decreases to the false confidence in the mentioned region. \r\n\"We can understand form the figure that in regions in which there is traffic of transportation vehicles, those persons that are so active in terms of transportation in these areas use motorcycle. Since the security coefficient is very low, we observe theft increasing in these regions. And therefore, in more distant areas, since the financial level of the residents is low, using the motorcycle in there is impressively increasing. (The center of the deviation oval is placed in the \"Adl\" street.)\r\nDevising strategies:\r\nAs it was said, various factors cause the social security to decrease in the cities. The question that arises here is this, how can we provide urban security from various political, skeletal, cultural, social and economical dimensions? We can refer to these following strategies as an answer:\r\n1. Structural and physical improvement of the urban poor and marginalized regions;\r\n2. Spatial distribution of a fair income, wealth, and power in the entire city for all of the citizens;\r\n3. Using public participation in the preparation and implementation of urban plans in order to prevent the creation of urban issues;\r\n4. The proportional distribution of urban usages (cultural, educational, health and recreational) and the access of different classes to these usages;\r\n5. Identifying the spaces of uprising crime and doing the essential things to fight these spaces and preventing their creation;\r\n6. Considering the environmental standards and preventing the creation and building in the agricultural lands of the urban suburbs;\r\n7. Preventing speculation of land and housing and creating a condition for the residents of the marginalized regions to have access to a proper housing;\r\n8. Fulfilling the basic needs including food, water, shelter, income, security and work for the entire population of the city;\r\n9. Increasing the level of knowledge and culture of the citizens (especially the poor regions of the city);\r\n10. Improving the quality and possibility of an easy access to the public transportation in the entire city and increasing the existing capacities, in order to fulfilling the needs of the citizens, fast and easily;\r\n11. Optimizing and rehabilitating the old and rusty urban contexts: developing the economical infrastructures and providing urban services and being active in order to increase the urban economical security and creating employment;\r\n12. Having at least the proper level of public health and health care, in a way that these services would be available for everyone;\r\n \r\n \r\n \r\n Rahmani 450\r\n \r\n13. Solving the issues associated with urban traffic and pollutions (sound pollution, visual and air pollution), and paying special attention to the sustained development of the city;\r\n14. Preventing the creation of spaces that have no civil defense, by the following acts:\r\n\"Structural action:\r\nchange in the form of the space, enhancing the light and visibility of the space, change in the location of the placement of the urban furniture which are the gathering places for people (such as telephone booths and newspaper sales), removing the form by enclosing them and the U and L shape of the recessed spaces or preventing individuals such as those who sleep in boxes (homeless people) to use them, desired use of the empty spaces under the stairs of the aerial bridge for filling the space, coordinating the size and volume of the space \r\n\r\n\"Legal action:\r\nDismantling the stalls of vendors and their gathering place, especially in areas surrounding large markets, reducing the rate of concentration of the population by forcing the owners of the structures to coordinate it with the performance and etc.\r\n\"Performance action:\r\nactivating the abandoned buildings, changing the usage of the abandoned buildings or confining them and etc.\r\n','Mohammad Hassan Rahmani (2014). Spatial, Local Analysis and Evaluation and Possibility of Predicting Crimes and Presenting Strategies by Using the ARCGIS software. Biological Forum – An International Journal 6(2): 436-450.'),(4766,'120','Maximal oxygen consumption in asthma patients before and after aerobic training program','Islamdoost Mohammad, Shahedi Valiollah and Imanipour Vahid','74 ISLAMDOOST MOHAMMAD-1.pdf','',1,'The objective of present study was to assess whether cardiovascular fitness was affect with aerobic exercise program in asthma patients. Twenty two inactive males with asthma were randomly assigned into exercise and control groups. Subjects of exercise group were participated in aerobic training for 3 times per weeks at 60-80% of maximal heart rate. Control subjects were instructed to maintain their habitual activities. Pre and post training values of cardiorespiratory fitness (VO2max) was calculated by a stationary cycle ergometer. Student’s paired‘t’ test was applied to compare the pre and post training outcome. A p-value of less than 0.05 was considered to be statistically significant. There were no statistically significant differences between the exercise and control subjects with regard to the anthropometrical markers or VO2max (P > 0.05). Compared to pre-training, VO2max increased significantly (p = 0.001) after exercise program in exercise group but was not changed in control subjects. All anthropometrical markers decreased significantly by exercise program (p < 0.05). A long-term aerobic exercise intervention can induce favorable changes in cardiorespiratory fitness in adult males with mild to moderate asthma.','cardiovascular fitness, aerobic training, Respiratory ','The objective of present study was to assess whether cardiovascular fitness was affect with aerobic exercise program in asthma patients. Twenty two inactive males with asthma were randomly assigned into exercise and control groups. Subjects of exercise group were participated in aerobic training for 3 times per weeks at 60-80% of maximal heart rate. Control subjects were instructed to maintain their habitual activities. Pre and post training values of cardiorespiratory fitness (VO2max) was calculated by a stationary cycle ergometer. Student’s paired‘t’ test was applied to compare the pre and post training outcome. A p-value of less than 0.05 was considered to be statistically significant. There were no statistically significant differences between the exercise and control subjects with regard to the anthropometrical markers or VO2max (P > 0.05). Compared to pre-training, VO2max increased significantly (p = 0.001) after exercise program in exercise group but was not changed in control subjects. All anthropometrical markers decreased significantly by exercise program (p < 0.05). A long-term aerobic exercise intervention can induce favorable changes in cardiorespiratory fitness in adult males with mild to moderate asthma.','Lifestyle change, lack of exercise, and exposure to allergens might lead to the development of some respiratory diseases such as asthma [1]. Asthma is an airway disease with allergic origin. Physiologically, it appears with narrowing of the respiratory tract; while, from the clinical perspective, it starts with sudden attacks of shortness of breath, coughing, and wheezing [2]. The outbreak of asthma has been increased significantly from the 1970s onwards, particularly in developed countries, such that between 5 and 7% has been added to the outbreak of asthma annually [3]. Outbreak of asthma in Iran is at an intermediate level, swinging between 5 and 15%. That is, about 6.5 million people suffer from this disease [4]. \r\nAccording to the literature, the increase in resistance of respiratory tract in patient with asthma is associated with reduced pulmonary function [3]. In addition, narrowing of the respiratory tract leads to the reduced amount of oxygen into the blood stream, which in turn, causes decreased cardiorespiratory fitness in these patients as well as other patients with respiratory disease [5]; such that, most studies pointed out lower levels of VO2max as a key index of cardiorespiratory fitness in patients with asthma or chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) than in healthy people [6]. However, there exist rare studies which have reported no differences in cardiorespiratory fitness, heart rate, and Minute ventilation in patients with asthma and healthy subjects [7, 8]. \r\nReduced cardiorespiratory fitness in patients with asthma is not only resulted from the resistance of the airway, but also inactive life style to avoid asthma attacks in patients, in addition to other restrictions, are among the main reasons for the decline in the patient\'s cardiorespiratory fitness [9]. Hence, it appears that physical activity and regular exercise programs, particularly aerobic exercise, tends to increase cardiorespiratory fitness in these patients. Increase in indicators such as maximum vital capacity, maximum voluntary ventilation in response to exercise training in patients with asthma have been reported [10]. However, findings on the impact of physical activity on cardiorespiratory fitness in these patients are often contradictory. As some studies reported the improvement of this physiological parameters [11, 12, 13], while other studies reported no change [14] in response to training programs. This research also intends to, once again, evaluate the effect of three-month aerobic training on VO2max as an indicator of cardiorespiratory fitness in asthmatic patients.\r\n \r\n\r\n\r\n Mohammad, Valiollah and Vahid 456\r\n \r\nMETHODS\r\nA. Subjects\r\n Twenty four adult men (39.9 ± 7.6 years, mean ± standard deviation) with asthma participated in the study by accessible sampling and assigned into exercise and control group by randomly. The study was conducted with the approval of the Ethics Committee of Islamic Azad University, Iran. After the nature of the study was explained in detail, informed consent was obtained from all participants.\r\nB. Inclusion and exclusion criteria\r\n All subjects of two groups were inactive, non-smoker and non-alcoholics. Main inclusion criteria for study group were determined as existing chronic asthma for at least three years. Subjects with other respiratory, cardiac, rheumatic, musculoskeletal and orthopedic diseases and with associated neurological sequelae which could interfere in the performance of the proposed assessment were excluded from both groups.\r\nC. Anthropometric measures\r\n Each subject’s body weight and height were measured. Each of these measurements was conducted two times and the average was reported. Height was measured without shoes on standing while the shoulders were tangent with the wall. Body weight was measured in duplicate in the morning following a 12-h fast. All of these measurements were conducted by the same researcher. Body mass index (BMI) was calculated by dividing body mass (kg) by height in meters squared (m2).\r\nD. Exercise program\r\n Cardiorespiratory ﬁtness (measured as oxygen consumption per unit of time (VO2max)) was determined using results of a graded cycle ergometer exercise (15). This measurement was preformed in 2 occasions before exercise program and one week after lasted exercise session. Aerobic program lasted 12 weeks for 3 times per week. \r\nEach exercise session started by 5-10 warm up and finished by 5-10 cool up. The main part of each exercise sessions was performed in a treadmill at moderate intensity (60-80% HRmax; increasing 5% each 3 weeks) for 25-40 minutes (increasing 5 minutes each 3 weeks). \r\nE. Data Analysis\r\nAll values are reported as mean and standard deviation. Data were analyzed by computer using the Statistical Package for Social Sciences (SPSS) for Windows, version 11.5. All data were tested for normal distribution by the Kolmogorov-Smirnov test. At baseline; comparisons of parameters between the two groups were made by independent Student t test. Student’s paired ‘t’ test was applied to compare the pre and post training values. A p-value of less than 0.05 was considered to be statistically significant.\r\nRESULTS\r\nIn this investigation, the effect of aerobic training program on aerobic capacity or cardiorespiratory fitness was measured in males with chronic asthma. \r\nTable 1shows descriptive characteristics of spirometry in studied patients. All data represent by mean and standard deviation. Data showed no significant difference in all anthropometrical and physiological markers between two groups at baseline (p ≥ 0.05).\r\nCompared to pre-training, except AHO (abdominal to hip circumference ratio) (p = 1.000) all anthropometrical markers as body weight (p = 0.000), BMI (p = 0.000), abdominal circumference (p = 0.000), hip circumference (p = 0.000) and body fat percentage (p = 0.014) decreased significantly after exercise program but this clinical variables was not changed in control subjects (Table 2 and 3). Aerobic program resulted a significant increase in VO2max when compared with pretest (p = 0.001) but this variable did not change in control group (Table 2 and 3). We also showed a significant decrease in resting heart rate after exercise program in exercise subjects (p = 0.000) (Table 2 and 3).\r\nDISCUSSION\r\nToday, physicians frequently encourage asthmatic children to attend regular training programs because improving physical fitness and mental changes can lead to increased quality of life in these patients [16]. Physical training is a well established method in the rehabilitation of patients with chronic obstructive pulmonary disease [17]. In the present study, the effect of three months of aerobic exercise on some cardiorespiratory fitness indicators such as resting heart rate and maximum oxygen consumption were measured. The obtained results of the study showed that three months of aerobic exercise resulted in significant increase in aerobic capacity and significant reduction in resting heart rate in adult patients with asthma, who had previously an inactive life style. Several studies show that regular exercise in order to decrease asthma symptoms and to reduce dyspnea by mechanisms such as enhancing respiratory muscles and improving spirometric indices will result in improvement of lung function in patients with asthma, which ultimately may increase VO2max as an indicator of cardiorespiratory fitness [15, 19]. VO2max attained during a graded maximal exercise to voluntary exhaustion has long been considered by WHO as the single best indicator of cardiorespiratory ﬁtness [20]. In this field, the findings of a recent study showed that 8 weeks of aerobic exercise, 3 times a week, will significantly improve respiratory volume in men with asthma [21]. In line with the findings of the present study, in another study, three-month exercise led to VO2max increase, and significant reduction in submaximal heart rate, as well as running time increase in children with asthma [22]. Breathing exercise is considered as the most important rehabilitation feature for asthmatic patients. It leads to improvement of exercise capacity and reduced respiratory muscle fatigue [23]. Sport activities, especially aerobic exercises, for 30 minutes per session with a lower exercise intensities of 40 (%) VO2max at the initial sessions and then gradually increasing the intensity of subsequent sessions have been suggested for improvement of cardiorespiratory fitness in these patients [23]. \r\nSome literature has also noted that aerobic exercise performance, compared to high intensity exercise (anaerobic), in patients has better effects on cardiovascular exercises. And, anaerobic training has long-term adverse effects such as hyperventilation [24]. Recommendations for rehabilitation of asthmatic patients would include individualized exercise prescription and advice based on objective criteria of exercise capability, with flexibility in the programs offered, in order to cater to the broadest spectrum of patient disability [25]. Although the increase in VO2max, in response to aerobic exercise program, may primarily be attributed to the improvement of respiratory volume, it is also possible that this physiological index improvements roots from improvement of other confounding factors in asthma such as inflammatory or anti-inflammatory cytokine. This is because some previous studies indicated the relationship between VO2max and cytokines such as IL-6, TNF-α, and IL-1ß [26]. In addition, a significant reduction of these mediators of the inflammatory cytokine peptide is reported in literature as a response to short- and long-term training programs [27, 28]. \r\n','Islamdoost Mohammad, Shahedi Valiollah and Imanipour Vahid (2014). Maximal oxygen consumption in asthma patients before and after aerobic training program. Biological Forum – An International Journal 6(2): 455-459. '),(4767,'120','Pro-inflammatory Cytokine does not affect indicator markers of type II Diabetes directly','Seyyed Rafi Shafabakhsh Kolor, Mona Hafezi and Mehdi Ebrahim Baysalami','76 SEYYED RAFI SHAFABAKHSH KOLOR-3.pdf','',1,'Pro-inflammatory cytokines have emerged over the last decade as key adipokine linking obesity, insulin resistance and type 2 diabetes, although the physiopathological mechanisms underlying these associations are largely unknown. In present study, we aimed to determine the relation of serum Tumor necrosis factor-alpha (TNF-α) as proinflammatory cytokine with some indicators of type II diabetes. To achieve this outcome, fasting blood glucose (FBG), insulin and serum TNF-α were measured in thirty adult men with type II diabetes. Insulin sensitivity and beta cell function were calculated by fasting glucose and insulin. Statistical analysis was performed with the SPSS software version 15.0 using a Pearson’s correlation coefficient. A P-value of < 0.05 was considered to be statistically significant. Data showed that serum TNF-α is not correlated with mentioned variables. Based on these data, we can say serum TNF-α does not affects indicator markers of type II diabetes. In seems that this pro-inflammatory cytokine affect glucose and insulin action by indirectly.','Pro-inflammatory cytokine, diabetes, Insulin action','Pro-inflammatory cytokines have emerged over the last decade as key adipokine linking obesity, insulin resistance and type 2 diabetes, although the physiopathological mechanisms underlying these associations are largely unknown. In present study, we aimed to determine the relation of serum Tumor necrosis factor-alpha (TNF-α) as proinflammatory cytokine with some indicators of type II diabetes. To achieve this outcome, fasting blood glucose (FBG), insulin and serum TNF-α were measured in thirty adult men with type II diabetes. Insulin sensitivity and beta cell function were calculated by fasting glucose and insulin. Statistical analysis was performed with the SPSS software version 15.0 using a Pearson’s correlation coefficient. A P-value of < 0.05 was considered to be statistically significant. Data showed that serum TNF-α is not correlated with mentioned variables. Based on these data, we can say serum TNF-α does not affects indicator markers of type II diabetes. In seems that this pro-inflammatory cytokine affect glucose and insulin action by indirectly.','Today, diabetes especially type II has become the locus of many health and hygiene researchers. Such that, at least in the past two decades, the number of studies on the causes of diabetes prevalence, as well as the methods used for treating and reducing its severity have been reporter far larger than other diseases. Type 2 diabetes is the most common endocrine disease caused by glucose resistance due to the imbalance between insulin supply and demand.\r\nAlthough the pathophysiologic mechanisms of insulin resistance and impaired insulin secretion, as the major determinants of diabetes 2, have not been yet fully understood, clinical studies have repeatedly indicated the axial role of markers or pre-inflammatory cytokines increase in the pathogenesis of type 2 diabetes and insulin resistance. Over the past two decades, the role of peptides released from the fat tissues, as well as the inflammatory cytokines secreted from the fat and other body tissues, especially in obese people and those with high levels of fat, have been found with central importance in the development of such chronic diseases as type II diabetes, cardiovascular diseases, and metabolic syndrome. Their important role is specifically highlighted in corporation with a low active life style of obese people in the severity of this and other obesity related diseases. \r\nAs the majority of peptides, particularly inflammatory cytokines, are released from the fat tissue, higher levels of obesity are associated with increased secretion of them; therefore, several studies have been conducted on the effect of these cytokines, especially on the prevalence and/or severity of type II diabetes. Since inflammatory cytokines secretion increase occurs also in non-diabetic obese people, this question has been recently arisen that whether inflammatory markers impairment can directly determine type II diabetes or the obesity of diabetic patients charges the levels of these variables. Among the inflammatory cytokines, it has been determined that Tumor necrosis factor-alpha (TNF-α) is with an important role in the development of metabolic abnormalities such as obesity and insulin resistance. In addition, obesity is associated with increased level of TNF-α. Thus, its increase is expected in the obesity caused diseases (e.g. cardiovascular or type II diabetes). Yet, the relationship between its levels and the determinants of such chronic diseases, as type 2 diabetes, has less been investigated. In the present study, the serum levels of TNF-α will be recognized with type II diabetes determinant indices such as glucose, insulin sensitivity, and B-cells performance.\r\nMATERIAL AND METHODS\r\nA. Human subjects, Inclusion and exclusion criteria\r\nSubjects were thirty six sedentary adult men with type II diabetes that participated in study by accessible sample.\r\n \r\n\r\n\r\n Kolor, Hafezi and Baysalami 466\r\n \r\nA medical history to retrieve information about health status, current medications and a physical examination including height, weight, waist circumference and blood pressure were monitored of all patients. Inclusion criteria were Type 2 diabetes diagnosis, Overweight or obese stable body weight for 6 months. Subjects had not participated in regular exercise for the preceding 6 months, nor did all subjects have stable body weight. All subjects were non-smokers. The exclusion criteria were infections, renal diseases, hepatic disorders, use of alcohol and a history of other chronic diseases. After introduction and awareness of the subjects of the objectives of the study and once they had completed consent forms.\r\nB. Anthropometric measurements\r\n Obesity was measured by body mass index (BMI). Body mass index was measured for each individual by division of body weight (kg) by height (m2). After signing the consent, subjects were weighed without shoes on a calibrated digital scale (Omrun, B590, Finland)) to the nearest 0.1 kg. Height measurements were obtained barefooted at midexpiration and recorded to the nearest 0.5 cm using a stadiometer. Blood pressure was measured using the left arm after the subject had been sitting comfortably for 5 min, using an oscillometric device (Alpikado, japens). The waist girth was measured at the level of the umbilicus horizontally without clothing, while the hip girth was measured at the level of the greatest protrusion of the gluteal muscles with underwear. Waist-hip ratio (WHR) was calculated. All of these measurements were conducted by the same researcher. Each of these measurements was conducted two times and the average was reported.\r\n\r\nC. Blood analysis\r\nBlood was drawn after 12 h of fasting and 48 hours without physical activity. Those patients unable to avoid taking hypoglycemic drugs or other therapeutic drugs within 12 hours before blood sampling were barred from participating in the study. Blood samples were obtained were taken between 8:00 and 9:00 a.m, and then centrifuged for separate serum. Serum used to measuring insulin and TNF-α by ELISA method. Glucose was determined by the oxidase method (Pars Azmoon kit, Tehran). The homoeostasis model assessment (HOMA) for estimating insulin sensitivity and Beta cell function was calculated using by fasting insulin and glucose concentration.\r\nD. Data analysis\r\nAfter calculation of the mean and the standard deviation, the statistical analysis was conducted using the SPSS software version 15.0. Kolmogorov-Smirnov test was used to determine of normal status of the data. The bivariate associations between serum and beta cell function, insulin sensitivity or others were examined with the Pearson rank correlation analysis. A p-value of less than 0.05 was considered statistically significant and all reported p-values were 2 two-tailed.\r\nRESULTS\r\nThis study aimed to determine the relation of serum TNF-α with beta cell function, insulin sensitivity and glucose concentration as indicator markers of diabetes. As mentioned above, at first, we measured anthropometrical and metabolic markers. Anthropometric and metabolic characteristics of the study participants are shown in Table 1.\r\nWe also stipulate previous that the relation of serum TNF-α and beta cell function is main objective of our study. Based on Pearson correlation method, serum TNF-α was not correlated with beta cell function (p = 0.62, r = 0.09, Fig. 1) in studied subjects. No significant correlation were found between this pro-inflammatory cytokine with insulin sensitivity (p = 0.64, r = 0.08, Fig. 2) and glucose concentration (p = 0.56, r = 0.10) and serum insulin (p = 0.43, r = 0.14) in studied patients.\r\n \r\nDISCUSSION\r\nAlthough the majority of recent studies have noted the increased cytokines levels in obesity related chronic diseases as type II diabetes, findings of this study show that TNF-α level in such patients is not related to the blood glucose and other influential factors. In other words, based on the findings of this study, TNF-α serum levels in type II diabetic patients are not significantly associated with insulin sensitivity, B-cells performance, blood glucose levels, and insulin. Although, these findings are debatable, they pave the way for further investigations in the field. It has been determined that many obesity related abnormalities like hypoglycemia, hypertension, atherosclerosis, insulin resistance, dyslipidemia and inflammation in the etiology of coronary artery disease are the consequences of type II diabetes. Insulin resistance syndrome plays an important role in thepathogenesis of type II diabetes and cardiovascular diseases, in which multiple mechanisms involve. Although the main involved mechanisms in a relationship between increased adipocytes and insulin resistance has not been fully understood, increased fat tissue has a central role in this phenomenon. On the other hand, the role of inflammatory mediums should be taken into consideration. TNF-α is mainly synthesized and released from the fat tissue, in which macrophages are also involved. Recent studies have noted the significant correlation between the TNF-α systematic levels and the risk of cardiovascular factors such as the blood triglyceride levels. Its multiple functions such as hypertrophy, cardioset, and impaired contractile function have previously been reported. Based on some clinical studies, it has been determined that their level in obese people is 7.5 times higher than people with healthy weights. Moreover, researchers have referred to the increased production of vLDL through TNF-α to explain the relationship pf cytokines to TG. Furthermore, researchers have noted that the synthesis of muscular proteins is inhibited via higher levels of inflammatory cytokines. Increase in its systematic levels is known as an inflammatory marker in obese people; in addition, weight loss has been introduced as a key intervention to decrease its plasma concentration. TNF-α is indeed one of the most important cytokines secreted from fat tissue, and increases the presence of other inflammatory cytokines such as IL-6 and IL-1 in the blood. On the other hand, it has been found that TNF-α, as an inflammatory marker, is correlated with hyperglycemia, insulin resistance, and type II diabetes. Additionally, its major role has been discovered in the inflammatory processes, such that its increased concentration accelerates the synthesis of some inflammatory interleukin. Its plasma concentration is positively correlated with TG, which has a major role in such metabolic abnormalities as obesity, type 2 diabetes, insulin resistance, and cardiovascular diseases. Yet, the findings of this study support the lack of relationship between it and other factors that affect type II diabetes. \r\nBased on these evidence, it may be concluded that TNF-α, as a pre-inflammatory cytokines, does not directly affect the factors that have influence on type II diabetes. On the other hand, some studies have noted that there is not any significant difference in the plasma levels of pre-inflammatory cytokines, as well as other adipocytokines between non-obese diabetics patients and healthy people. In fact, according to the research findings, level changes of the mentioned variables can be attributed to obesity, and not to type II diabetes. In supporting the findings of this research, some recent studies have also reported the lack of significant correlation between insulin resistance with pre-inflammatory cytokines (i.e. TNF-α, CRP, and IL-6). In this regard, Gomez et al. (2009) have also shown that TNF-α is not a determinant of vascular inflammation in diabetic rats. \r\nYet, although some previous studies have reported findings consistent with the present research, the lack of significant correlation between INF-α and the effective factors in type 2 diabetes can be attributed to the small sample size, as a limitation of this study. Therefore, conduction of similar studies with more samples is recommended.\r\n','Seyyed Rafi Shafabakhsh Kolor, Mona Hafezi and Mehdi Ebrahim Baysalami (2014). Pro-inflammatory Cytokine does not affect indicator markers of type II Diabetes directly. Biological Forum – An International Journal 6(2): 465-469. '),(4768,'120','The effect of aerobic training program on some indicator markers of diabetes in smokers','Mirakhori Zahra, Mirakhori Fatemeh and Zand Alireza\r\nDepartment of Physical Education and Sport Science, \r\n','77 MIRAKHORI ZAHRA-4.pdf','',1,': Few studies have prospectively addressed the effects of exercise on inflammation profile and other abnormalities associated with diabetes in smokers. This study was also aimed to assess the effect of aerobic training program on fasting glucose and insulin resistance in smokers. For this purpose, fasting levels of insulin and glucose were measured before and after three months aerobic training in adult males with cigarette smoking (n=12) and control subjects matched for age (42 ± 5 year) and weight (92 ± 6 kg). The insulin resistance index was assessed by homoeostasis model assessment (HOMA-IR) by fasting glucose and insulin. Paired t test was used to determine the mean differences between pre and post-training values. The results were considered statistically significant for p<0.05. There were no statistically significant differences in all variables between exercise and control groups at baseline (P > 0.05). Compared to pre-training, fasting glucose concentration decreased significantly (p = 0.024) by aerobic in exercise group but not in control subjects. We also observed a significant decrease in insulin resistance in exercise (p = 0.008) group but this clinical variables was not changed in control subjects. From these data, we can say aerobic training for long time can be improve abnormalities associated with type II diabetes in smoker.','Smoking, Insulin resistance, Aerobic training',': Few studies have prospectively addressed the effects of exercise on inflammation profile and other abnormalities associated with diabetes in smokers. This study was also aimed to assess the effect of aerobic training program on fasting glucose and insulin resistance in smokers. For this purpose, fasting levels of insulin and glucose were measured before and after three months aerobic training in adult males with cigarette smoking (n=12) and control subjects matched for age (42 ± 5 year) and weight (92 ± 6 kg). The insulin resistance index was assessed by homoeostasis model assessment (HOMA-IR) by fasting glucose and insulin. Paired t test was used to determine the mean differences between pre and post-training values. The results were considered statistically significant for p<0.05. There were no statistically significant differences in all variables between exercise and control groups at baseline (P > 0.05). Compared to pre-training, fasting glucose concentration decreased significantly (p = 0.024) by aerobic in exercise group but not in control subjects. We also observed a significant decrease in insulin resistance in exercise (p = 0.008) group but this clinical variables was not changed in control subjects. From these data, we can say aerobic training for long time can be improve abnormalities associated with type II diabetes in smoker.','It is certain that the main and primary cause of type 2 diabetes is insulin resistance, and beta-cell dysfunction has the next degree of importance. However, some Asian studies reported that the beta-cell function is the primary factor in the pathogenesis of type 2 diabetes [1]. Apart from the main factors or the role of metabolic mediators in the incidence of diabetes, recent studies support the role of some external interventions, such as diet, physical inactivity, and tobacco use, especially in those who are susceptible to this disease. Despite the extensive evidence about the role of cigarette smoking in cardiovascular disease, the molecular mechanisms of its association with the severity and the incidence of type 2 diabetes is not well known. However, in a relatively close study, it was found that the glycosylated hemoglobin levels were significantly higher in smokers compared to non-smokers [2].\r\nIncreased blood glucose levels in smokers compared to non-smokers was reported by some studies [3]. The literature supports the increased insulin resistance in smokers compared to non-smokers [4, 5]. \r\nThe importance of smoking in formation of oxidative stress and impaired beta-cell function has also been reported by some studies [6]. Clinical observations revealed that even those who are exposed to cigarette smoke may also become type 2 diabetics [7].\r\nThe literature reveals that among the external interventions, training increases insulin sensitivity in insulin-resistant obese patients or those with a family history of type 2 diabetes as well as the type 2 diabetics [8]. Some studies have reported that short-term exercise increased insulin sensitivity in healthy subjects [9]. However, in a study, training led to a significant increase in VO2max and a significant reduction of the non-esterified free fatty acids in non-diabetics [10]. No change was observed in diabetics. Despite these observations, there are limited studies about the effects of long-term training programs on determinant indicators of type 2 diabetes in smokers. Hence, the present study aimed at determining the effect of a 3-month aerobic training program on fasting glucose levels and insulin resistance in a group of male non-athlete smokers. \r\nMATERIAL AND METHODS \r\nA. Human subjects\r\nThis study included twenty four sedentary adult men with cigarette smoking aged 42 ± 5 year and body weight 92 ± 6 kg that selected by accessible samples then divided into exercise (n=12) and control group (n=12). \r\n \r\n \r\n Zahra, Fatemeh and Alireza 471\r\n \r\nExercise group was three months aerobic training for 3 times weekly. Inclusion criteria for the study groups were: healthy and a history of smoking at least for 3 years. Participants were non-athletes, non-smokers and non-alcoholics. Participants were included if they had not been involved in regular physical activity/diet in the previous 6 months. We excluded people who had any self reported physician diagnosed chronic disease (arthritis, stroke, hypertension, cancer, heart attack and chronic cough). Furthermore patients with diabetic were also excluded from the study. After introduction and awareness of the subjects of the objectives of the study and once they had completed consent forms, the process of test implementation began.\r\nB. Anthropometry\r\nBefore and after the aerobic training, anthropometrical markers were measured in the morning following a 12-h fast. Anthropometric measurements of height, weight, percent body fat, and circumference measurements were taken by the same trained general physician. Height was measured without shoes on standing while the shoulders were tangent with the wall. Weight was measured to the nearest 100 g using digital scales. Body mass index (BMI) was calculated by dividing body mass (kg) by height in meters squared (m2). Blood pressure was measured using the left arm after the subject had been sitting comfortably for 5 min, using an oscillometric device (Alpikado, japens).\r\nC. Biochemistry and training protocol\r\nFasting blood glucose (FBG) and insulin concentration were measured before and 48 hours after lasted exercise session in exercise or control groups. Blood samples were collected after an overnight fast between 8:00 and 9:00 a.m. Serum glucose was determined by enzymatic (GOD-PAP, glucose oxidase-amino antipyrine) colorimetric method (Pars Azmoun, Tehran, Iran), the Intra-assay and interassay coefficient of variation was 1.74% and 1.19% and sensitivity of the method were 5 mg/dL. Serum insulin was determined by ELISA method (Demedite, German). The Intra- assay coefficient of variation and sensitivity of the method were 2.6% and 2.88 μg/L, respectively. The HOMA1-IR index was calculated by the formula: HOMA1-IR = fasting plasma insulin (µU/ml) x fasting plasma glucose (mmol/L)/22.5 (11). Aerobic exercise program lasted three months for three times per week at 60-80% of maximal heart rate. Each exercise session lasted 45 – 60 min included 5-10 warm up, 30-45 min main exercise (walking or running on treadmill) then cool down. The intensity of the activity of any person was controlled using the Polar heart rate tester (made in the US).\r\n\r\nD. Statistical Analysis\r\nAll data were tested for normal distribution by the Kolmogorov-Smirnov test. Independent student t test was used for between groups comparison at baseline. Paired t test was used to determine the mean differences between pre and post-training values on all metabolic and anthropometric variables. Statistical significance was accepted at p-value<0.05 or lower.\r\nRESULTS\r\nWe previous mentioned that this study was conducted to assess the effect of aerobic training program on insulin resistance and fasting glucose as indicator markers of type II diabetes in smokers.\r\nThe baseline of anthropometric and clinical characteristics of the study participants in the exercise and control groups are shown in Table 1. At baseline there were no differences in the age, body weight and other anthropometrical markers between the two groups (Table 1). Fasting insulin, glucose and insulin resistance were also similar between two groups at baseline. Compared to pre-training, the glucose levels decreased (p = 0.024) in exercise group but not in the control groups. There was significant decrease in insulin resistance response to aerobic training program in exercise subjects (p = 0.008), but this variable remained without change in control subjects. After aerobic training intervention, serum insulin decreased in exercise group (p = 0.025) but not in control subjects (Table 2 and 3). \r\nDISCUSSION\r\nIn the recent years, the prevalence of type 2 diabetes has increased in young and middle-aged adults. There is also considerable evidence that exercise delays or prevents the incidence of diabetes in susceptible individuals [12]. A significant reduction in the fasting glucose levels in male smokers was found in the present study. The reduction in fasting glucose concentrations in the studied smokers was observed while they had had a sedentary life style before the training program. Therefore, it can be concluded that a 3-month aerobic exercise is associated with a significant reduction in the blood glucose levels in smokers because the fasting glucose levels in the control group, who continued their sedentary life style, did not change significantly during the study. It was found that smokers were more susceptible to diabetes compared to non-smokers. A close association between tobacco consumption and the metabolic syndrome was also observed [13]. In this context, researchers have pointed out that smoking is associated with the reduced response of target cells to blood flow insulin levels [14].\r\nThe literature suggests that smokers are less able to control their diabetes compared to non-smokers. Some studies have reported that smokers undergo metabolic disorders characterized by the insulin resistance syndrome which increases the postprandial triglycerides, and subsequently increases LDL particles [15]. A study in the American populations reported the higher incidence of hyperinsulinemia in smokers compared to non-smokers [16]. Researchers have also noted the increased levels of cardiovascular risk factors in smokers compared to non-smokers are rooted in the insulin resistance phenomenon [17]. Despite these observations, some other studies have reported no relationship between smoking and diabetes [18].\r\nExercise has been reported as a factor of insulin sensitivity enhancement and insulin function improvement in the insulin-resistant humans and animal models [19]. Some studies indicated that regular exercise reduces insulin secretion through its stimuli [20]. However, other studies suggested that long-term exercise increases the secretion of glucose-dependent insulin in humans and animal models with type 2 diabetes [21]. Some studies showed that exercise improves glucose homeostasis by increasing glucose absorption in skeletal muscle and adipose tissue [22, 23]. Some studies also reported that exercise reduces the hepatic insulin symptoms through reducing the release of hepatic glucose in hyperinsulinemia [24, 25].\r\nThe positive effects of exercise on blood levels in both diabetics and non-diabetics individuals is somehow associated with the insulin function response or the response of target cells to insulin so that the reduced insulin resistance somehow reduces blood glucose levels in diabetic and non-diabetic populations. In the present study, the fasting glucose levels were reduced following the training programs. \r\nThe reduced insulin resistance was a main finding of this study. Based on these findings, it can be concluded that in smokers, aerobic exercise program reduces hyperinsulinemia through reducing insulin resistance in target cells. It is also possible that exercise program affect the blood glucose levels though affecting other hormonal components. For example, a significant inverse relationship between adiponectin, as an inflammatory cytokine, and insulin resistance was observed by some researchers [26, 27]. It was also found that the increase in adiponectin leads to the reduced insulin resistance in smokers which is associated with lower baseline levels of blood sugar and is due to reduced release of hepatic glucose through increasing adiponectin levels [28]. The literature also supports the significant increase in adiponectin in response to long-term training programs [29, 30].\r\n','Mirakhori Zahra, Mirakhori Fatemeh and Zand Alireza Department of Physical Education and Sport Science, (2014). The effect of aerobic training program on some indicator markers of diabetes in smokers. Biological Forum – An International Journal 6(2): 470-474. \r\n '),(4769,'120','Moderate exercise can be improve inflammatory profile with emphasis on interleukin 1 beta','Imanzadeh Reza, Eizadi Mojtaba and Dooaly Hussein','81 EIZADI MOJTABA-8.pdf','',1,'Obesity is a major health problem and is associated with low-grade systemic inflammation. Despite abundant studies about the role of chronic exercise training on inflammatory profile, acute response of inflammatory mediators to one bout exercise test are still not completely elucidated. For this reason, in this study, we investigated the effect of one bout exercise included 40 min running without slope at 65(%) of maximal heart rate on serum Interleukin- 1 beta (IL-1 β) in fifteen adult obese males aged 39.4 ± 1.9 years and body mass index (BMI) 31.3 ± 1.4 kg/m2 were selected to participate in this study by accidentally. Anthropometrical markers were measured. Venous blood samples were collected immediately before and after exercise test with regard to measuring serum IL-1 β. Student’s t-tests for paired samples were performed to determine change between pre and post test. A p value less than 0.05 was considered statistically signigcant. Based on statistical data, exercise test resulted significantly decrease in serum IL-1 β in studied subjects. In conclusion, we can say one bout exercise test with moderate intensity can be improved IL-1 β as an inflammatory cytokine. However further studies are necessary to elucidate the significance of exercise on inflammatory profile and is need to determine acute response of other cytokines to exercise.','Exercise, Obesity, Inflammatory profile ','Obesity is a major health problem and is associated with low-grade systemic inflammation. Despite abundant studies about the role of chronic exercise training on inflammatory profile, acute response of inflammatory mediators to one bout exercise test are still not completely elucidated. For this reason, in this study, we investigated the effect of one bout exercise included 40 min running without slope at 65(%) of maximal heart rate on serum Interleukin- 1 beta (IL-1 β) in fifteen adult obese males aged 39.4 ± 1.9 years and body mass index (BMI) 31.3 ± 1.4 kg/m2 were selected to participate in this study by accidentally. Anthropometrical markers were measured. Venous blood samples were collected immediately before and after exercise test with regard to measuring serum IL-1 β. Student’s t-tests for paired samples were performed to determine change between pre and post test. A p value less than 0.05 was considered statistically signigcant. Based on statistical data, exercise test resulted significantly decrease in serum IL-1 β in studied subjects. In conclusion, we can say one bout exercise test with moderate intensity can be improved IL-1 β as an inflammatory cytokine. However further studies are necessary to elucidate the significance of exercise on inflammatory profile and is need to determine acute response of other cytokines to exercise.','Similar to other cytokines, interleukines-1 including interleukin-1 alpha (IL-1) and Interleukin- 1 beta (IL-1 β) are involved in creation of innate and inflammatory immune responses. IL-1 β is one of the most potent pro-inflammatory cytokine that has the metabolic and immunologic function [1]. It has been long known that this cytokine expressed by many cells, including monocyte and neutrophils and via CRP effect [2]. Marked evidence indicates that this inflammatory cytokine has been associated with increased cardiovascular risk [3].\r\nThis inflammatory cytokine, in addition to inflammatory and respiratory disease, is also associated with metabolic disturbances effective on obesity and the body fat regulation. A growing body of evidence supports the notion that an increase in systemic levels of IL-1β is associated with increased insulin resistance and intensity of type II diabetes [4, 5]. Accumulating evidence indicates that its level to be increased in obesity [6]. Some previous studies have indicated an association of direct relation between serum IL-1 β and body mass index [7]. In contrary, in another study, no significant association was found between IL-1 β and BMI [8]. \r\nIt has been hypothesized that weight loss in obese people results in significant reduction in this inflammatory cytokine, although the speciﬁc mechanisms responsible for these observations are not obvious. For this purpose, several small studies have documented effects of weight reduction by exercise training on inflammatory profile and/or serum levels of these cytokines such serum IL-1ß. In this are, finding of previous study showed that long term exercise training resulted in a significant decrease in IL-1 β in obese mice [9]. But, it has been reported by another study that circulation IL-1ß did not change after six months of lifestyle change as exercise and varied diet [10]. Nevertheless, it has been known for some time that acute exercises lead to an increase in pro-inflammatory markers in the circulatory pathway [11]. On the other hand, there are limited studies about acute response of inflammatory or anti-inflammatory cytokines particularly serum IL-1β to on bout exercise in various population. This study aimed to assess acute response of serum IL-1β to moderate running test in obese men.\r\n \r\n\r\n\r\n\r\n Reza, Mojtaba and Hussein 490\r\n \r\nMETHODS\r\nHuman Subjects and study inclusion: As mentioned above, this study aimed to determine whether serum IL-1ß is affect by one bout moderate exercise test in obese men. For this purpose, fifteen apparently healthy obese men were recruited for this study through local advertising. Participants were 39.4 ± 2 years old with a body mass index (BMI) of 31.3 ± 1.4 kg/m2. The protocol was approved by the Ethics Committee of Islamic Azad University, Shahr-e-Qods Branch, Iran. Written consent was obtained from each subject after the experimental procedures and possible risks and beneﬁts were clearly explained. Participants were non-athletes, non-smokers and non-alcoholics. All participants had not participated in regular exercise/diet programs for the preceding 6 months. Subjects with history of smoking and patients with gross abnormalities of the thoracic cage which may interfere with lung function test were also excluded from the study. Subjects with a history or clinical evidence of impaired fasting glucose or diabetes, recent myocardial infarction, active liver or kidney disease, the other chronic were excluded.\r\nAnthropometriy: Anthropometric measurements were made by the same trained general physician. The weight and height of the participants were measured in the morning, in fasting condition, standing when the participant had thin clothes on and was wearing no shoes. Abdominal circumference and hip circumference were measured in the most condensed part using a non-elastic cloth meter. Hip circumference was measured at the level of the greater trochanter. Body mass index (kg/m²) was calculated as weight (kg) divided by squared height (m2). Visceral fat and body fat percentage was determined using body composition monitor (OMRON, Finland).\r\nLaboratory Analyses and exercise: For measuring serum IL-1 β, blood samples were collected via the cannulated antecubital vein before and immediately after exercise test. The subjects did not perform any serious physical activity for 48 hours before the blood collection. All blood samples were separated serum for calculation serum IL-1ß. Exercise test lasted 40 min with 65 (%) of maximal heart rate involved running on flat surface with no slope. Target heart rate was controlled with polar telemetry. ELISA method (Enzyme-linked Immunosorbent Assay for quantitative detection of human IL-1β, Czech) used for determine serum IL-1ß. Intra and inter-assay coefficients of variation were 5.1 and 8.6%, respectively. \r\nStatistical analysis: Statistic analysis was done with SPSS 15.0 for Windows. The Kolmogorov-Smirnov test was applied to determine the variables with normal distribution. Student’s t-tests for paired samples were performed to determine change between pre and post test. A p value less than 0.05 was considered statistically signigcant.\r\nRESULTS\r\nIn present study, serum IL-1β response to one bout running test (40 min at %65 VO2max) were measured in adult obese men. Table 1 show the descriptive anthropometric and biochemical features of the study subjects. The data were reported as mean and standard deviation. \r\nBased on Pearson correlation method, serum IL-1β was not correlated with anthropometrical markers at both pre and post test. Lack correlation between IL-1β and body weight at baseline (p = 0.39, r = 0.24, Fig. 1). Data of statistical analysis showed that exercise tees resulted in significant decrease in serum IL-1β in studied subjects (p = 0.036, Fig. 2).\r\nDISCUSSION\r\nIn contrary with some previous study, our study finding showed that single bout exercise can be decrease serum IL-1β as inflammatory cytokine in adult obese men. This study is not the first in the last two decades in measuring adipocytokines secreted from adipose tissue or other tissues in response to different exercise programs; rather, various studies have reported inconsistent findings in terms of immediate or delayed response of inflammatory or anti-inflammatory cytokines. In this area, contrary to these results, Drenth et al. has been show the IL-1β production increased two-fold in ten recreational trained athletes immediately after the 5-km run [12]. \r\nUnlike the findings of the present study which supports the decrease in IL-1β as an inflammatory cytokine in response to one session running with relatively moderate intensity and duration and mentions the anti-inflammatory effects of this exercise, the findings of another research shows that 60 minutes running with similar intensity has resulted in a two-fold significant increase in this inflammatory cytokine and IL-1β, pointing out the inflammatory impacts of the mentioned exercise test [13]. In another recent study, the researcher stated that acute exercises lead to an increase in pro-inflammatory markers in the circulatory Pathway [11]. \r\nThese authors suggested that taking into account that exercise intensity could affect the immune response and a graded training has severe problems. In this area, some authors have suggested that the metabolism complication induced by this type of exercise could initiate apoptotic processes, resulting in the lymphopenia observed after this type of exercise [3, 14]. But our study results showed that exercise even for one moderate running can be improved serum IL-1β as an inflammatory cytokine. This important finding supports the anti-inflammatory characteristic of relatively long-term, moderate intensity exercise in obese adult men. However, improvement in serum levels of IL-1β in response to the exercise test in the present study can be attributed to alterations in other inflammatory or anti-inflammatory cytokines such as IL-6. Lack of measurement of the mentioned cytokines was the main limitation of the present study. Although, many previous studies have been suggested higher serum IL-1β in obese than normal weight subjects, our study showed no significant correlation in serum IL-1β with anthropometrical markers in studied obese subjects. However, this unexpected finding is probably due to small number of sample subjects.\r\nSome researchers have suggested that IL-1β increases significantly during endurance sports and after long-term endurance sports [15]. It was reported that one-session high intensity interval training (HIIT) exercise has resulted in heterogeneous findings such as increased IL-10 (as an anti-inflammatory cytokine) and increased IL-6 and TNF- (as inflammatory cytokines) in young men [16]. Increased IL-1β in response to short-term exercise has reported by other previous studies [17, 18]. A recent study mentioned a decrease in serum leptin without any change in serum adiponectin following 20 minutes biking with an intensity of 60% and 80% maximal oxygen consumption in overweight middle-aged men [19]. However, it is possible that exercise may result in a significant change in levels of receptors or their expression in skeletal muscle or other tissues, despite its ineffectiveness on systemic levels of cytokines. So, increased expression of adiponectin receptors in skeletal muscle following a one-session exercise was observed by another study [20].\r\nAcknowledgments: We are particularly grateful to all participants who participated in the study. We thank the Research Deputy of Islamic Azad University, Shahr-e-Qods Branch for support and cooperation in implementing this project.\r\n','Imanzadeh Reza, Eizadi Mojtaba and Dooaly Hussein (2014). Moderate exercise can be improve inflammatory profile with emphasis on interleukin 1 beta. Biological Forum – An International Journal 6(2): 489-493.'),(4770,'120','Serum TNF-α in sedentary obese and normal weight individuals','Morovatnya Korosh, Najafpour Mohamadnaser and Atefeh Keshavarz','83 MOROVATNYA KOROSH.pdf','',1,'Obesity is an established risk factor for type 2 diabetes, metabolic syndrome and cardiovascular diseases. This study aimed to compare serum TNF-α between obese and normal weight men. For this purpose, thirteen adult obese men aged 35 to 45 years and the same number normal weight adult men matched for age that were recruited to participate in this study. Serum TNF-α was measured after an overnight fast in subjects of two groups. All participants refrained from any severe physical activity 48 h before measurements. Differences between groups were calculated using the independent samples t-test. The level of significance was taken as p<0.05. TNF alpha serum levels were higher in obese than in normal weight individuals (p=0.004). This observation supports of obesity or overweight have a pivotal role in systemic inflammation and chronic diseases such as type II diabetes, metabolic syndrome or others.','Inflammation. Obesity, Body mass index','Obesity is an established risk factor for type 2 diabetes, metabolic syndrome and cardiovascular diseases. This study aimed to compare serum TNF-α between obese and normal weight men. For this purpose, thirteen adult obese men aged 35 to 45 years and the same number normal weight adult men matched for age that were recruited to participate in this study. Serum TNF-α was measured after an overnight fast in subjects of two groups. All participants refrained from any severe physical activity 48 h before measurements. Differences between groups were calculated using the independent samples t-test. The level of significance was taken as p<0.05. TNF alpha serum levels were higher in obese than in normal weight individuals (p=0.004). This observation supports of obesity or overweight have a pivotal role in systemic inflammation and chronic diseases such as type II diabetes, metabolic syndrome or others.','Nowadays, obesity is of prime significance for health science researcher as the most prominent non-contagious metabolic dysfunctions. The increasing growth of obesity and its hazardous consequences concomitant to societies’ industrialization and changes in people’s life style highlight the prevention and treatment of obesity as the main challenge for health system. Obesity is accompanied by many diseases such as cardiovascular diseases, diabetes type-2, and metabolic syndrome [1]. Aside from genetic factors, nutrition pattern and hormonal dysfunctions are also the main factors inducing chronic diseases in the presence of obesity [2, 3]. \r\nScientific studies have frequently reported the increase of inflammatory cytokine’s serum levels in fat individuals and respective diseases as compared to healthy individuals with normal weight (4, 5, 6]. Scientific references have always emphasized higher levels of inflammatory cytokines such as IL-6, CRP, TNF-α, leptin, and resistin yet lower levels of anti-inflammatory cytokines such as adiponectin and IL-10 in obesity-induced diseases including diabetes type 2 and cardiovascular diseases [7, 8, 9]. \r\nAmong the mediators secreted by adipose tissue, although TNF-α – as a pre-inflammatory cytokine is firstly secreted by adipose tissue, it can also be produced by macrophages and other cells. For the first time, the relationship between obesity and the pre-inflammatory cytokine TNF-α and also its role in the relationship between obesity and inflammation were examined by Hotamisligil et al [10]. This cytokine plays a critical role in inflammation process. Its concentration increases can accelerate the synthesis of some interleukins such as IL-8 with special importance in the outbreak of arthrosclerosis process [11]. TNF-α acts as a gene expression regulator in adipose cells [12]. \r\nSince adipose tissue is one of the key sources of TNF-α production, the expression of cytokine in human’s adipose tissue and muscle increases obesity outbreak [13, 14]. Based on scientific resources, TNF-α expression severely increases in the adipose cells of fat individuals and patients resistant to insulin [10]. TNF-α serum level and expression increase in fat individuals’ adipose cells. Its serum level decrease is observed following weight loss [15]. Despite the abovementioned, there are also studies contributing to cytokines’ indifference among fat individuals as compared to individuals with normal weight [16]. Their indifference in fat and normal individuals can be also observed in some other studies [17, 18]. Due to this conflict, the present study compares TNF-α serum levels in adult fat men versus men with normal weight. All of them have passive and still life style.\r\nMETHOD AND SUBJECTS\r\nParticipants included thirteen adult obese men aged 39 to 3 years and the same number normal weight adult men matched for age that were recruited through an advertisement in a local newspaper. \r\n \r\n\r\n Vasmehsara, Sabegh and Ghobadi 500\r\n \r\nNone of the subjects used drugs or therapies for obesity, and none had a past history of disease or injury that would prevent daily exercise. Participants were non-athletes, non-smokers and non-alcoholics. Participants were included if they had not been involved in regular physical activity/diet in the previous 6 months. After introduction and awareness of the subjects of the objectives of the study and once they had completed consent forms, the process of test implementation began.\r\nAnthropometry and biochemistry: To measure serum TNF-α, subjects attended human lab on one morning at 08.00 h for documentation of their full history and a physical examination. Blood samples were collected, via the cannulated antecubital vein, between 8:00–9:00 a.m. after an overnight fasting for all subjects. All participants refrained from any severe physical activity 48 h before measurements. Blood centrifuged for 10 minutes in order to separate serum. Serum used to measure TNF-α by ELIZA method (Enzyme-linked Immunosorbent Assay for quantitative detection of human TNF-α, Austria). Anthropometric measurements of height, weight, percent body fat, and circumference measurements were taken study. Weight and height were measured in the morning, in fasting condition, standing, wearing light clothing and no shoes. \r\nBody mass index (BMI) was calculated as weight (kg) divided by squared height (m). Abdominal obesity and hip circumference were determined in a standing position at the end of normal expiration and ratio between them (AHO) was calculated for each subjects. \r\nStatistical analysis: The data were reported as mean and standard deviation, and analyzed using the SPSSW statistical package, version 16.0 (SPSS Inc., Chicago, IL, USA) for Windows W. All data were tested for normal distribution by the Kolmogorov-Smirnov test. Comparisons of parameters between the two groups were made by Fishes exact test or unpaired Student t test. A p value of less than 0.05 was considered as statistically signigcant.\r\nRESULTS\r\nThe participants of present study were in to category based on anthropometrical markers included obese and normal weight groups and main objective was to compare serum TNF-α two groups. Anthropometric and metabolic characteristics of the study participants are described in Table 1. Based on statistical data, we observe that serum TNF-α in obese subjects was significantly higher that normal weight individuals (p = 0.004, Fig. 1).\r\nDISCUSSION\r\nSeveral studies have been studied concerning the basic levels of inflammatory or anti-inflammatory cytokines in fat individuals as compared to individuals with normal weight or healthy versus fat individuals. Most resources have implied higher levels of inflammatory cytokines in the presence of obesity [13]. In this regard, results of the present study also showed that fat men have higher levels of TNF-α as an inflammatory cytokine as compared to individuals with normal weight. They have emphasized the existence of systemic inflammation in fat individuals. Namely, results showed an increase of about %30 in fat men as compared to men with normal weight. \r\nThis %30 increase of inflammatory cytokines in fat diabetic individuals (versus fat non-diabetic individuals) is also reported before [19]. Based on studies regarding immunity function in the presence of obesity, the increase of adipose tissue levels is accompanied by immunity response dysfunction. Destructive effects of obesity on immunity system function are accompanied by the increase of systemic pre-inflammatory markers derived from adipose tissue [20]. Hence, concerning the key role of adipose tissue in inflammatory processes (especially, in obese individuals), extensive studies have always been administered aiming to determine the relationship between obesity mechanisms and systemic inflammation. Most present studies emphasize that obesity is related to many diseases such as diabetes type 2, cardiovascular diseases, and some cancers[1]. The effect of obesity on obesity-induced disease is complicated due to the interaction between genetic and metabolic factors [2, 3]. \r\nTNF-α is among proteins increased in the presence of obesity [21]. Accordingly, determining or measuring its gene expression can be one of the alternative genes for studying obesity, cardiovascular diseases, and other related diseases. Close relationship between the serum concentration of this inflammatory cytokine and systolic blood pressure increase is observed in a wide spectrum of Canadian fat citizens [22]. \r\nTNF-α accelerates lipolysis in adipose tissue. Its increase has destructive effect on both adipogenesis and lipogenesis. TNF-α decreases appetite in hypothalamus. It stimulates the secretion of catabolic corticotropin-releasing hormone. TNF-α increase the expression of genes involved in free fatty acids synthesis. Yet, it decreases the genes involved in fatty acids oxidation. TNF-α also increases hepatic insulin resistance by promoting insulin receptors’ serine-phosphorylation followed by insulin signaling path. It also stimulates TNF-α secretion by liver. Finally, TNF-α increase is accompanied by immunity cells damage. It increases the inflammatory responses of macrophage and macrophage’s phagocytosis [23]. TNF-α also plays a key role in obesity pathogenesis and insulin resistance (24]. This pre-inflammatory cytokine induces insulin resistance by means of destructing the signs of insulin receptors’ mediators [25]. The negative regulation of genes required for insulin function, the negative regulation of genes directly affecting insulin function, and increasing free fatty acids by stimulating lipolysis are among other mechanisms introduced for TNF-α [26]. \r\n \r\nWeight loss in fat patients is accompanied by the reduction of this inflammatory mediator’s production and insulin resistance decrease [15]. Human studies and also studies animal species have shown that TNF-α secretion increase by adipose tissue reduces insulin sensitivity [27, 28]. Changes in TNF-α expression in adipose tissue are directly related to obesity degree and hyperinsulinemia levels [13]. \r\nRecent studies have always emphasized the pathological role of TNF-α in arthrosclerosis. They have also implied that TNF-α serum levels can be taken as one of the biomarkers of identifying and determining the functional levels and cardiovascular diseases [29]. However, the extent to which inflammatory and anthropometric mediators can regulate TNF-α level in blood circulation is not completely identified, yet. TNF-α not only leads to the cellular death (apoptosis) of endothelial cells, but also induces vascular inflammation in arthrosclerosis [30]. Accordingly, clinical observations have implied that TNF-α level in blood circulation can be one of the biomarkers of cardiovascular diseases and also among the molecular objectives of preventing from the expansion of these abnormalities. \r\n','Morovatnya Korosh, Najafpour Mohamadnaser and Atefeh Keshavarz (2014). Serum TNF-α in sedentary obese and normal weight individuals. Biological Forum – An International Journal 6(2): 499-503.'),(4771,'120','Aerobic capacity and Antioxidant profile in asthma patients','Alireza Rahimi, Mehdi Kasbparast Jr and Alireza Shokrgozar','85 ALIREZA RAHIMI-12.pdf','',1,'Although there is evidence of systemic inflammation or reduced antioxidant capacity in asthma or other respiratory disease, the pathophysiological mechanisms that link cardiorespiratory fitness with immune system are not fully understood. This study aimed to determine relationship between total antioxidant capacity (TAC) with cardiorespiratory fitness in asthma patients. For this purpose, twenty six adult men with mild to moderate asthma aged 39 ± 2 year were recruited for participate in study and underwent fasting blood samples to measure TAC. Cardiorespiratory ﬁtness (measured as oxygen consumption per unit of time (VO2max)) was determined using results of a graded cycle ergometer exercise. Pearson correlation coefficient test was chosen for evaluating the correlation between TAC and VO2max. A p value less than 0.05 was considered statistically signigcant.','Respiratory Function, Aerobic capacity, Asthma','Although there is evidence of systemic inflammation or reduced antioxidant capacity in asthma or other respiratory disease, the pathophysiological mechanisms that link cardiorespiratory fitness with immune system are not fully understood. This study aimed to determine relationship between total antioxidant capacity (TAC) with cardiorespiratory fitness in asthma patients. For this purpose, twenty six adult men with mild to moderate asthma aged 39 ± 2 year were recruited for participate in study and underwent fasting blood samples to measure TAC. Cardiorespiratory ﬁtness (measured as oxygen consumption per unit of time (VO2max)) was determined using results of a graded cycle ergometer exercise. Pearson correlation coefficient test was chosen for evaluating the correlation between TAC and VO2max. A p value less than 0.05 was considered statistically signigcant.','Several hormonal and metabolic factors are involved in the development of asthma such that understanding the interaction between these factors and their change patterns in weight loss workouts has triggered many of today\'s research to develop a suitable strategy for the improvement of devastating symptoms of it. In addition to the reduction of cardiorespiratory fitness and lower aerobic fitness, the relationship between asthma with systemic inflammation and function of the immune system, especially against oxidants and free radicals, has been frequently reported [1, 2]. The chronic obstructive pulmonary (COPD) and asthma are defined as chronic inflammatory diseases of the respiratory pathways. There is evidence showing that the systematic inflammation is involved in their pathogens [3]. Scientific literatures indicate lower cardiorespiratory in such patients [4]. On the other hand, the role of oxidative stress has been suggested in the pathogens of some chronic inflammatory diseases as asthma, such that those references add up to the reduction of total antioxidant capacity in the patients with asthma [5]. The relationship between these reactive oxygen species (ROS) and several pathophysiological changes in asthma indicates their vital role in the development and severity of this disease, which is associated with increased lipid peroxidation, sensitivity and secretions in the respiratory pathways in such patients [6]. \r\nIn addition, the lack of antioxidants in the respiratory pathways of these patients is connected with intensified symptoms, reduced respiratory performance, and increased inflammation [7].\r\n For example, in a recent study, a significant relationship between the intensity of asthma with total antioxidant capacity and other oxidants such as superoxide dismutase, catalase, and plasma has been observed [8]. Since in addition to the inflammation of respiratory pathways, the majority of patients with asthma have an inactive life style and are less involved in sport activities, due to the incidence of asthma attack, they have lower cardiorespiratory and aerobic capacity [4]. In this regard, there are studies that have reported lower levels of total antioxidants capacity in such patients, relative to healthy people [2, 9]. \r\nFurthermore, although inflammation, or resistance of respiratory paths, affects their aerobic fitness, it seems that other environmental factors are also influential. Scientific literature has reported lower levels of both total antioxidant capacity and cardiorespiratory fitness in the patients with asthma; yet, there are limited numbers of research on the relationship between them in those patients. Therefore, the present study aims for investigating the relationship between cardiorespiratory fitness and aerobic capacity with the total antioxidant capacity in a group of male patients with chronic asthma. \r\nMETHOD AND SUBJECTS\r\nTo analyze whether antioxidant capacity is associated with cardiorespiratory fitness in asthma patients, twenty six sedentary adult men aged 39 ± 2 year, body mass index (BMI) 31 ± 3.6 kg/m2 with mild to moderate intensity of asthma comprised the sample. Measurements included total antioxidant capacity and VO2max as a good indicator of cardiorespiratory fitness. \r\n\r\n \r\n Rahimi, Kasbparast Jr and Shokrgozar 510\r\n \r\nThe diagnosis of asthma and its severity was made by spirometry test. Written informed consent was obtained from all participants. Subjects were asked to complete questionnaires on anthropometric characteristics; general health, smoking, alcohol consumption, and present medications. Asthma diagnosis at least for 3 years was main inclusion criteria. Participants were non-athletes, non-smokers and non-alcoholics. All subjects were non-smokers and had not participated in regular exercise/diet programs for the preceding 6 months. Potential participants were excluded from the study if they reported smoking or had a history of heart disease, arthritis, stroke, diabetes, hypertension, cancer, heart attack or chronic cough.\r\nEach subject’s anthropometrical markers were measured. Body mass index (BMI) was calculated by dividing body mass (kg) by height in meters squared (m2). Weight was measured to the nearest 100 g using digital scales. Standing height was measured to the nearest 0.1 cm with the use of a wall-mounted stadiometer. Waist circumference and hip circumference were measured in the most condensed part using a non-elastic cloth meter. Following 5 minutes sitting rest in the lab, their pulmonary functions were assessed by computerized spirometer (Minispire, Italy)\r\nTo measure TAC, blood samples were collected of all subjects that attend in hematology lab between between 8:00–9:00 a.m. after an overnight fasting for all subjects. All participants refrained from any severe physical activity 48 h before blood sampling. \r\nTAC was determined by FRAP method (the sensitivity of method was 0.1 Units/ml). For determine Cardiorespiratory ﬁtness (measured as oxygen consumption per unit of time (VO2max)), all subgects were completed a graded cycle ergometer exercise. Cycling test included 5 continues stage without rest between stages and each stage lasted 3 minute. In each stage, intensity was increased according to protocol guideline (10).\r\nStatistical analyses: Statistic analysis was done with SPSS 16.0 for Windows. Normal distribution of data was analyzed by the Kolmogorov-Smirnov normality test. Pearson correlation coefficients were used to determine the associations between VO2max with total antioxidant capacity. Signiﬁcance was accepted at P < 0.05.\r\nRESULTS AND DISCUSSION\r\nIn this study we determined relationship in total antioxidant capacity with cardiovascular fitness or aerobic capacity in males with chronic asthma. Table 1 shows the descriptive anthropometric features of studied subjects. These data indicate that the subjects are obese or overweight. \r\nTotal antioxidant capacity, VO2max and Spirometrical markers are showed in Table 2 a significant positive correlation was observed between total antioxidant capacity and aerobic capacity (p = 0.008 , r = 0.51, Fig. 1). Although there is not any research that has directly investigated the relationship between the total antioxidant capacity and cardiorespiratory fitness in the patients with asthma, findings of the present study maintains a direct correlation between them. In other words, the changes pattern of the total antioxidant capacity, as a specific immune system against free radicals or oxidants, is connected to VO2max, as a salient indicator of the cardiorespiratory fitness.\r\n \r\nIn that, decrease in any of them is associated with reduction in the other. Free radicals are molecules with one or more paired electron which can be generated by the majority of body cells, and increased level of them is associated with several damages to the body tissues including damage to plasma membrane and DNA, decreased immune function, joint problems, cardiovascular diseases and mental problems, as the most important ones [11, 12]. \r\nAsthma is a disease with inflammatory nature, in which the role of oxidative stress is always indicated in systematic and local forms in the disease\'s pathogens. In that, the lack of balance between oxidants and antioxidants has a significant role in the prevalence, intensity, or control of this disease [8]. The importance of balance between the oxidants and antioxidants in the creation and control of the disease\'s symptoms has been reported in some previous studies [8]. \r\nThere are various factors involved in the prevalence and/or severity of asthma, each with its own specific significance. Impaired secretion of inflammatory cytokine, i.e. increased level of it, and the reduction of anti-inflammatory cytokine are the most important hormonal symptoms of this disease. In addition, increased and decreased levels of anti-oxidants have recently been taken into consideration by the health science researchers [13]. \r\nThe importance of balance between oxidants and antioxidants in the creation and control of asthma symptoms has been investigated in different studies; in addition, the majority of researchers have reported the particular role the lack of balance plays between them or the presence of oxidative stress in the incidence of pulmonary problems such as asthma [14]. In fact, decreased level of antioxidants in the respiratory pathways in this disease causes intensification of the problem, higher level of oxidants, and increased inflammatory responses [7].\r\nRegarding the inflammatory nature of asthma, the role of oxidative stress is indicated in systematic and local forms in the disease\'s pathogens. During persistent asthma and asthmatic attack, the capacity of antioxidant serums significantly decreases [5]. Decreased capacity of total antioxidants in smokers, who have lower cardiorespiratory fitness, has also been reported [15]. Although, based on the findings of this study the presence of a causal relationship between them cannot be emphasized, it seems that in addition to other interfering factors, the reduction of total antioxidants capacity in these patients relates to the lower levels of cardiorespiratory fitness of them. Although, investigations into some other healthy population or patients have evaluated a direct relationship between them, some evidence indicates a correlation between antioxidants and inflammatory markers. For example, in a study a significant relationship between the glutathione levels and C-reactive protein, as a proinflammatory cytokine, has been observed in hemodialysis patients [16]. \r\nOn the other hand, the relationship between VO2max and these inflammatory markers has frequently been reported. For example, in another study on the patients with heart failure, a significant relationship was observed between the changes in VO2max and changes in some inflammatory cytokines such as IL-6, IL-1B, and TNF-a, following a long-term workout plan [17]. The relationship between these two variables (namely the total antioxidant capacity and VO2max) and inflammatory markers mentioned in other studies supports a connection between them in the patients with asthma, as a kind of inflammatory disease. On the other hand, participation in workout plans, especially aerobic exercises, is associated with increased cardiorespiratory fitness [18, 19]. In this regard, studied also have revealed that regular workout plans are associated with increased total antioxidant capacity and other antioxidants in different populations [20]. In another study, a 5-week workout plan improved VO2max and antioxidant profile in young men [21]. These findings indicate that both VO2max and total antioxidant capacity increase in response to regular sport activities. These findings also maintain a direct relationship between them and alignment of their changes in response to exercise.\r\n','Alireza Rahimi, Mehdi Kasbparast Jr and Alireza Shokrgozar (2014). Aerobic capacity and Antioxidant profile in asthma patients. Biological Forum – An International Journal 6(2): 509-513. '),(4772,'2','Phytoremediational Honey Locust Trees\' (Gledischia triancanthos L.) Efficacy in Reducing Air Pb and Cd Levels','Elham Faraji Dizaji, Mohsen Kafi, Ahmad Khalighi and Sepideh Kalateh Jari','9 ELHAM FARAJI DIZAJI 1057.pdf','',1,'Because plant absorption of heavy metals is effective in decreasing environmental pollution, the present study examines the absorption of heavy metals by Gledischia triancanthos L. a species of trees planted in the green space along the Tehran- Karaj highway. This study was conducted in a split-plot design with three replications. The experimental treatments parameters consisted of the distances of the planted trees from the midline axis of the highway (0, 15, and 30 m) and three different sampling times (at the opening of the leaves, in late June, and before fall). The results showed that by the passage of time and especially before fall, the levels of lead increased significantly. The highest level of cadmium was observed in the trees\' mid-growth period. For trees at a greater distance from the highway, the chlorophyll a levels were significantly higher, but chlorophyll b and total chlorophyll were not influenced by the distance from the highway. The results of the distance and time interactions have demonstrated that at the closest distance from the highway, the chlorophyll a levels significantly decreases over time. At distances of 15 and 30 m from the highway, the chlorophyll a levels increased and decreased, respectively, in the mid-growth and end-growth periods. At the closest distance from the highway, the levels of lead were significantly increased with the passage of time. By the time point before fall, the levels of lead were increased at 15 and 30 m from the highway. At the distance nearest to the highway, during the mid-growth period, the levels of cadmium reached their maximum values, and in the fall, were increased at 15 and 30 m from the highway.','green space, heavy metals, air pollution, highway border, Honey Locust Trees\'','In a study on Lonicera japonica, Liu et al. (2009) determined that the species showed high cadmium tolerance and accumulation capabilities. Therefore, L. japonica is potentially effective in removing cadmium pollution.\r\nIn a study by Hajrasuliha et al.(2005) that was conducted in late June through the September of 2005 at Islamic Azad University, it was shown that acacia leaves could be used to bio-monitor air pollution in areas that had been contaminated by heavy metals such as lead, cadmium, zinc, manganese, copper, and iron. Acacia, when used as a bio-monitor, could also separate contaminated from non-contaminated sites (Hajrasuliha et al., 2005).\r\nThrough the use of acacia species as bio-monitors, Amini et al. (2007) concluded that industrial and high-traffic areas of Isfahan, Iran were the main sources of the presence of heavy metals in air pollution and that acacia can be used as a safe bio-tracer for analyzing air and soil pollution in those areas (Amin et al., 2007). In the present study, the cadmium levels significantly decreased at the nearest distance to the highway; however, because of the wind, the lead levels were the highest at a distance of 30 m.\r\nKhajei et al. (2011) determined that for ash trees, the ability of the leaves to absorb cadmium in January and August was greater than the leaves, roots, and stems during the fall. In addition, the absorption of cadmium was found to be higher in ash leaves and in acacia stems. Therefore, by excluding the ash leaves from the environment, we can remove the pollutant. In the present study, the cadmium levels increased during the mid-term growth of the plant and were the highest at the distance nearest the highway. However, the lead levels reached its highest amount at a distance of 30 m from the highway at the end of the growing period. Azimpour et al. (2012) showed that the sampling position influences the absorption levels of nickel in the leaves of the ash tree in May and October. \r\nThe process of changing the nickel levels in ash and leaf umbrella increases in contaminated areas. By and large, the results of this research consider the ash tree to be a repellent species. Similarly, Khajei (2009) showed that the leaf absorption levels of cadmium in the ash tree during January are higher than those prior to the falling of the leaves or in the roots of the acacia. In our study, we also observed that the cadmium levels in the mid-term growth period significantly increased.\r\nIn another experiment, it was observed that the chlorophyll levels in alfalfa decreased when the lead and zinc levels increased. Moreover, alfalfa was more effective than the pea and vetch plants in its ability to produce chlorophyll in the presence of accumulated lead and zinc (Nezami et al., 2011). In a study on the effects of cadmium on rapeseed photosynthesis, cadmium was concluded to reduce turgor pressure and intracellular space. Eventually, photosynthesis decreases because of the enzymatic destruction of chlorophyll (Iranshahi et al., 2009). The results showed that as the cadmium and lead levels increased, the photosynthetic pigment levels significantly decreased. \r\n','One of the most significant principles in creating green spaces is to use trees and shrubs that are not merely resistant to environmental pollutants but also purify air, water, and soil. Plants play a crucial role in preventing the dispersion of noise and add to the esthetic value of urban and industrial areas. \r\nHeavy metals may be absorbed by plants, particularly in agricultural soils, which then may be ingested by humans using the plants (Chehreghani et al., 2009). \r\nTherefore, information about the distribution of heavy metals such as lead, zinc, cadmium, and copper in urban environments assists in sustainable development and in creating a safer greener environment for urban dwellers. The forenamed metals are naturally present in the soil in small amounts. However, various urban, industrial, and agricultural activities such as mining, waste management, the manufacture of aerosols, and the use of pesticides and fertilizers causes the levels of these metals to increase in the soil; to put it another way, the soil is threatened by these increased metal levels (Abdullahi et al., 2009). Cadmium is one of the most important heavy metal pollutants in the environment, although it is not harmful to plant growth but is highly lethal to humans and animals (Salardini & Mojtahedi, 1988). \r\nThe idea of using plants to remove metals from contaminated soils was first developed by Utsunamyiaand Chaney in 1991, the first \"plant breeding\" using zinc and cadmium was introduced by Baker (Ghosh & Singh, 2005). Amini (2011) concluded that species of cedar, ash, mulberry, and new leaves can be used as bio-tracers for airborne heavy metals in dry areas (2011). \r\n\r\n \r\n Dizaji, Kafi, Khalighi and Jari 76\r\n \r\nBy considering the growth behavior, absorption degree, and durability of two types of grass, Trifolium repens and Lolium perenne, in areas contaminated with heavy metals near lead, zinc, and cadmium mines, Bidar et al. (2007) showed that the metals were absorbed more by the roots than by the branches and that the absorption rate was the highest for cadmium, followed by zinc and lead. Through the changes in superoxide dismutase and malondialdehyde activity, the oxidative stresses of the plants were determined. The oxidative changes had a close relationship with the levels of the metals present, the plant tissue sampled, and the plant species. In comparison with T. repens, it seemed that L. prenne showed a larger response to oxidative stress from heavy metals (Bidar et al., 2007).\r\nPlants are used worldwide to mitigate soil contamination, which is considered to be one of the best ways of improving the environment. Despite the relevance of this technique, its use has been overlooked in Iran. The present study seeks to address the lack of systemic research on Gledischia triancanthos L.\' resistance to adverse environmental conditions, including the presence of airborne heavy metals from vehicle emissions.\r\nMATERIALS AND METHODS\r\nA. Experimental parameters\r\nThis study was conducted between winter 2013 and winter 2014 at 40-hectare sites: in a botanical garden at the University College of Agriculture and Natural Resources at Tehran University, which is a park at the university, and in a green space in Dowlat Abad, Karaj, adjacent to Martyr Kalantari Terminal. The parameters in this experiment consisted of the distance of the Gledischia triancanthos L. trees\' to the middle axis of the highway (0, 15, and 30 m) and the sampling times for the trees (opening of the leaves, late June, and before fall). \r\nB. Sampling Methods\r\nLeaves, approximately in the amount of 10 grams, from Gledischia triancanthos L. were randomly selected for measurement. The sampling process was performed at three points in time: at the sprouting time, late June, and before fall. At each time point, the samples were collected from trees at three distances from the highway: 0, 15, and 30 m.\r\nThe sampling was taken from the presence of leaves at three levels of height; top, middle, and bottom on each tree, and also on four different directions at the crown of the plant, so that each sample contained leaves from each height and direction for a definite tree. After mixing the samples of every tree, the measurements were performed. \r\n\r\n\r\nC. Measurement Types \r\nFor each sample, the lead and cadmium levels were measured. The chlorophyll and carotenoid levels as well as the wet and dry leaf weights were measured.\r\nD. Measurement of Lead and Cadmium\r\nTo measure the lead and cadmium levels, 0.25 g of dried leaves were put into a 100 ml beaker, and 4 ml of sulfuric acid was added. After several shakings, the contents were transferred to the Digesdhal machine for extraction. After the digestion of the plant sample, the resulting solution was transferred to an atomic absorption set to measure the lead and cadmium levels(Hakimi, 2014).\r\nE. Measurement of Chlorophyll and Carotenoids levels\r\nTo measure the chlorophyll and carotenoid levels in the samples, 0.5g of wet leaves from each sample was crushed using liquid nitrogen. Then, 80% acetone kept at 0°C was added to extract the chlorophyll and carotenoid. The samples were centrifuged for 15 min, and the supernatant was used for the subsequent measurements. Absorption was determined by a spectrophotometer using a wavelength of 663.2nm and646.2nm for chlorophyll and 470 nm for carotenoids. The chlorophyll levels were calculated according to the wet weight in mg and the formula provided in Lichtenthaler (1987). The carotenoid levels were calculated on the basis of mg/ml and related formulas as described previously (Hill et al., 1986). \r\nF. Dry to Wet Leaf Weight Measurement\r\nTo measure the dry to wet leaf weight, 2g of leaf tissue from each tree was weighed out separately. Each leaf tissue sample was placed into an oven at 60°C for 72 h, so that each sample reached a constant weight following water loss. Thereafter, the weight of the dry samples was recorded and calculated on the basis of the formula provided by Otsubo and Iwaya-Inole (2000). \r\nG. Statistical Population\r\nThe existing Gledischia triancanthos L. were located in a 40-hectare area in the fields of the College of Agriculture and Natural Resources, Karaj. The data was initially recorded in Excel and transferred to SPSS software for statistical analysis using ANOVA.\r\nRESULTS\r\nThe results showed that the levels of the photosynthetic pigments chlorophyll and carotenoids significantly decreased before fall compared to when the leaves opened. The dry to wet weight significantly increased over time as well. The lead levels increased at the mid and late growth time points. Over time, the levels of lead significantly increased, while the highest level of cadmium occurred in the middle of the growing period (Tables 1 and 2).\r\nThe results show that chlorophyll a levels significantly decreased with the passage of time and with the interaction between distance and time at 0 m from the highway. On the other hand, at 15 and 30 m, the chlorophyll a levels increased in the middle and late growth periods compared to the early period of the growth season (Table 4). \r\nWith the passage of time, the chlorophyll b levels significantly increased at 15 and 30 m. The highest total chlorophyll level was observed at 15 and 30 m from the highway. The total chlorophyll levels significantly increased at these distances by June but decreased at the same distances before fall. The carotenoid levels increased at the 0 m location over time but decreased at the 15 and 30 m prior to fall. The dry to wet weight significantly increased over time for all of the distances from the highway.\r\nThe lead levels significantly increased over time for the trees nearest to the highway. At the 15 and 30 m distances, the lead levels significantly increased as fall approached. The cadmium levels increased in trees at 15 and 30 m toward the fall, and reached a maximum level at 0 m during the middle of the growth period (Table 4).\r\n','Elham Faraji Dizaji, Mohsen Kafi, Ahmad Khalighi and Sepideh Kalateh Jari (2016). Phytoremediational Honey Locust Trees\' (Gledischia triancanthos L.) Efficacy in Reducing Air Pb and Cd Levels. Biological Forum – An International Journal 8(1): 75-79. '),(4773,'2','Effect of 8 Weeks Aerobic Exercise on Depression\'s Level of Addicted during Treatment with Methadone','Johari Abdollah, Hajirasouli Masoud and Mohsen Golmohammadian','14 JOHARI ABDOLLAH.pdf','',1,'This study examined the effects of aerobic exercise on changes in the level of depression in addicts under methadone treatment was performed. Experimental or quasi-experimental research method was a pretest-posttest control group. The study sample includes all 25-40 year old male addicts is methadone maintenance treatment with methadone addiction treatment centers located in West of Tehran in the second half of 1392. The sample size was 30 people who were randomly selected from available society based on the level of depression that were replaced in the control and experimental groups. In the first phase, participants completed the 21-item Beck Depression Inventory (BDI-21). Ultimately, 30 people who drug addicts, gained more scores on the Beck depression scale were randomly selected and divided into two experimental(N=15) and control(N=15) groups. In the second phase, experimental group participated in 8-week aerobic exercise training, and in third phase, after training implementation, two groups were evaluated by re-test. Results demonstrated that the drug addicts who have done that aerobic exercise with who have not received it, there were significant differences in depression (F=11/943 and p 0/002). The effect size or difference was 0/31, that mines 31 percent of individual differences in test scores is related to aerobic exercise. Results of analysis of covariance showed that the mean of experimental group was higher than the control group mean, so the hypothesis is confirmed. The results of the study showed that aerobic exercise can reduce the level of depression in addicts under methadone treatment.','Aerobic Exercise, Depression, Methadone Treatment.','Aerobic exercise is effective on changes in the level of depression in addicts under methadone treatment. Aerobic exercise changes the level of depression in addicts under methadone treatment. The results showed that eight weeks of aerobic exercise will reduce the level of depression among addicts under methadone treatment. These results are consistent with some previous studies (Brown et al., 2014, Taru et al., 2010, Haji Rasouli and Haji Rasouli 2009, Haji Rasouli et al., 2012, Haji Rasouli 2011, Hajisasouli et al., 2013). \r\nIt is shown in the above-mentioned research reports that exercise, physical motions and other physical activities will reduce the level of depression in different populations including drug and alcohol addicts.\r\nDepression illness is a disorder associated with addiction that can occur before, during or after it. Therefore, depression control or reduction is important in the treatment of drug addicts. In several studies conducted in some communities, especially, adolescents, the relationship between depression and addiction (substance use disorder) has been observed. On the other hand, depression can occur independently of drug use and perhaps one can prove that it is a risk factor for addiction and drug use disorder. We should know that depression can also be regarded as a secondary disorder, so that in some patients suffering from chronic depression, signs of drug abuse tendency are not seen. This is also true about the non-depressed addicts. According to psychologists, exercise is considered the best proposed way with low cost and minimal side effects and a prevention method and even a treatment method for minor depression. Depression symptoms decrease with exercise and promote a sense of well-being by improving mood. In another study aiming at determining the level of depression and its relationship with women\'s exercise, it was found that there is a difference between female athletes and non-athletes in the level of depression. The results of a study showed that, there is a significant relationship between increase in aerobic fitness and decrease in depression (Mokri, 2002, Williams and Strean 2004). \r\nDepression is often treated with medication, but many researchers suggest that new alternative methods should replace conventional treatment methods. Over the past two decades, many researchers have preferred exercise over traditional methods commonly used in depression treatment and have studied it. A group of researchers showed that endurance training can quickly improve mood disorders, especially major depression (Daley et al., 2007, Larun et al., 2006, Martinsen et al., 1989, Trivedi et al., 2006). In explaining the said research results, it should be noted that, drug addicts especially those under methadone treatment, with aerobic exercise, can gain the ability to manage and control their depression. Thus it can be concluded that their level of depression will change for the better. Given that exercise as an appropriate, non-invasive physical activity with minimal side effects and low cost is the best way for health promotion and minor depression reduction, it can be used as a way to prevent diseases in order to reduce healthcare costs. According to the results, psychotherapists can also use exercise along with other treatment methods or as an alternative method for the treatment of minor to moderate depression. On the other hand, the role of exercise in the reduction of mental disorders, such as depression, in addicts and non-addicts has been proven and the positive effects of exercise in increasing avoidance of smoking and reducing marijuana and cocaine consumption and reducing alcohol consumption has been observed. Animal studies also confirm the effect of exercise in reducing the need for methadone in methadone-dependent rats. Thus exercise may be used as a helpful valuable factor in addiction treatment and recovery of addicts. Due to the side effects of medication in addiction treatment, exercise is a non-pharmacological method that can have interaction with the dopaminergic reward system. Exercise leads to activation of the same system in the brain which is activated after the use of drug such as cocaine through increasing dopamine and its receptors. Thus exercise is a protection method against the return to drug and causes neuronal-hormonal adaptation (Moor KA, Blumenthal, 2002, Ussher, 2004, Lynch et al., 2010). \r\n','Before 1964, drug abuse and drug dependence were named as addiction but with the proposition of World Health Organization, these terms replaced the word addiction in order to reduce its social burden (Sadock and Sadock 2007). Iran has long been seriously faced with this problem due to its special geographical position. In Iran, the number of drug users is estimated approximately 1.8 to 3.3 million people, mostly use opium drugs. According to the United Nations, despite the start of serious fight against production and distribution of drugs since 1980 in Iran (including death sentence for the transmission and distribution of drugs) the effectiveness of programs was not satisfactory and the drug use trend was not decreasing and in recent years it has become a serious problem. Studies show that 20 to 90 percent of treated addicts return to drug (Antoine et al., 2008). Among psychiatric disorders associated with addiction, depression is very important because reduced energy and frustration caused by depression can reduce the addict\'s motivation to quit drug use and start treatment. Depression is one of the problems of addicts. It is one of the most common mental disorders and one of diseases that incur large costs to the healthcare system. Today, mental disorders are seen with different types and intensities. The most common of these diseases in Iran and world is depression so that about 10% of people have experienced at least one depression period within one year of their life. Its specific symptoms are dissatisfaction, loss of energy and interest, low self-esteem, feelings of sadness and guilt, and change in appetite and sleep pattern (Joe and Simpson 1991, Daniel, 2006, Smith and Elliott 2003). \r\n Methadone maintenance treatment (MMT) is a method used for the treatment of drug addicts. In recent years, it has been highly considered, and its effect on the abstinence duration, psychological status, health and well-being has been examined. Methadone is a synthetic substance with physiological and analgesic properties similar to opium and heroin, but it is not considered euphoric. With methadone prescription and opium and heroin withdrawal, the addict does not quit but is addicted to a less dangerous substance. MMT provides satisfaction for patients and its withdrawal is easier than opium and heroin (Hensen et al., 2001, Havard et al., 2006). \r\n \r\n Abdollah, Masoud and Golmohammadian 109\r\n \r\nRegular exercise training is associated with depression, and the greater number of training sessions will result in a greater reduction in depression. Longer training programs will also lead to a further reduction in depression. On the other hand, aerobic exercise serves as a rest period and keeps the individual away from all the stresses for a certain time. The secretion of endorphin hormone due to aerobic exercise and its effect on the modulation of emotional state and depression are important (Weinberg and Gold 1995).\r\nThis study is required because major research in the field of chronic diseases, psychological disorders and drug dependence reflects the positive effects of exercise in the treatment of these diseases and according to a few studies on the effect of exercise in the reduction of drug dependence and especially the lack of these studies in patients with drug dependence under methadone treatment and also due to the increasing prevalence of drug dependence in Iran (particularly risks for young and productive population). According to the research literature, the addicts\' depression is one of the factors hindering the treatment progress. On the other hand, according to research results, exercise and aerobic exercise have a great impact on mood and even depression treatment progress. Therefore, this study aims to investigate the effect of eight sessions of aerobic exercise on changes in the depression level of addicts under methadone treatment. \r\nMETHODOLOGY \r\nA. Population, sample and sampling method\r\nSince this study evaluates the effect of eight weeks of aerobic exercise on the changes of depression level in the addicts under methadone treatment, it can be considered semi-empirical research with a control group and a test group. The subjects were selected with available method and were included in the test and control groups with the random matching method. The groups were matched by age, education, socioeconomic level and depression scores. The study included all 25- to 40-year-old heroin addicts referring to methadone addiction centers located in western Tehran in the second half of 2013. After collecting the necessary information through clinical interviews, demographic information was obtained by the demographic form and the information on the individuals under methadone treatment and their treatment stage was gained from the centers\' officials. Among the target population, all 25- to 40-year-old heroin addicts under methadone treatment were identified. Then their contest to participate in the study was obtained. Next, for matching before the intervention implementation (aerobic exercise), Beck Depression Inventory was distributed among the subjects. Among them, 30 people with highest rates of depression were selected with targeted available sampling method and were randomly assigned to the test and control groups, each with 15 members.\r\nResearch tool: Demographic questionnaire: In order to match subjects for placement in the test and control groups, the demographic questionnaire was used. The participants were matched by marital status, education and health for doing exercises.\r\nBeck Depression Inventory: The 21-statement inventory of Mansour and Dadsetan was used which was normalized based on the results of Iranian participants (its validity has been investigated repeatedly. The correlation coefficient of Beck Depression Inventory with Psychiatric Rating Scale for Hamilton Depression was 0.731, with Depression Self-Rating Scale of Zung 0.762 and with MMPI depression scale 0.743 (Franques, 2001). Its reliability coefficient with Cronbach\'s alpha for addicts was obtained 0.84, for non-addicts 0.83 and for all subjects 0.91 which is very suitable. The validity of this questionnaire has been frequently examined.\r\n RESULTS\r\nThe total number of samples was 30 people: 15 people were randomly assigned to the control group and 15 people to the test group. In both groups, the average age of participants was 33 years, and minimum and maximum age was 25 and 40 years, respectively. About the education level of subjects, 66% had high school diploma or lower, 30% bachelor degree (or student), and the remaining had master degree. About marital status, 70% were married and 30% single. A total of 33% had government jobs and the rest had free jobs or were unemployed. \r\nTable 1 shows the mean, standard deviation, minimum and maximum depression in the test and control groups in pre-test and post-test.\r\nAs can be seen in Table 1, for the depression variable in the control group, the mean was 25.73 and SD was 4.71; in the test group, mean was 26.32 and SD was 6.94 in pre-test. The mean and SD in the depression variable in the control group respectively were 25.87 and 5.34, and in the test group, mean was 21.27 and SD 5.63 in post-test. \r\nAs shown in Table 2, Levine test results show that the null hypothesis for equality of variances for the scores of the two groups in the research variable is confirmed. That is, the assumption of equality of variances for the scores of the test and control groups in the post-test was confirmed for the depression variable. In other words, the assumption of homogeneity of variance is true. \r\nTable 3 examines the homogeneity of regression slopes which is one of the conditions for the use of ANCOVA.\r\nTable 3 examines the regression slopes. Given that the significant level obtained from the F statistic is greater than 0.05, the homogeneity of regression slopes is confirmed. The significant level of pre-test also shows that the auxiliary random variable has a significant association with the dependent variable\r\nIn this study, the assumptions for equality of variances, homogeneity of regression slopes and normality of variables are true, so we can use parametric tests to investigate the research hypotheses, and given that the pretest, as an auxiliary variable, has a significant relationship (beta) with the post-test, the results were analyzed using ANCOVA in order to control (adjust) the effect of pre-test.\r\nTable 4 shows the summary results of one-way ANCOVA in the context of MANCOVA in the depression variable for hypothesis saying \"Eight weeks of aerobic exercise is effective on the depression level in addicts under methadone treatment.\r\nAs can be seen in Table 4, the result confirms that with pre-test control, there is a significant difference in depression between drug addicts who received eight weeks of aerobic exercise (control group) and drug addicts who did not receive them (control group) (F=11.943, P<0.002). The effect of difference amount is 0.31, i.e. 31% of the individual differences in post-test scores relate to aerobic exercise. Statistical power is close to one, i.e., there is no possibility of type II error which implies that the sample size is sufficient. Therefore, the hypothesis is confirmed. In other words, aerobic exercise has reduced depression in drug addicts of the test group\r\n','Johari Abdollah, Hajirasouli Masoud and Mohsen Golmohammadian (2016). Effect of 8 Weeks Aerobic Exercise on Depression\'s Level of Addicted during Treatment with Methadone. Biological Forum – An International Journal 8(1): 108-112. '),(4774,'2','Effect of Intercropping Patterns of Dragon\'s Head and Dill (Anethum graveolens L.) on Yield, Yield Components and Essential Oil Yield of Dill','Ahmad Rezaei Arjomand, Saeid Zehtab Salmasi, Safar Nasrollahzadeh and Jalil Shafagh-Kolvanagh','43 AHMAD REZAII 1114.pdf','',1,'Intercropping is considered for increasing and stability of yield per average unit. An experiment was conducted at the Research Farm of the Faculty of Agriculture, University of Tabriz, Iran in 2015 to study the effect of intercropping of Dill and Dragon\'s head on yield, yield components and essential oil yield of Dill. The experiment was arranged in RCB design with three replications. Intercropping patterns included; pure stand of Dragon\'s head, pure stand of dill variety Dukat, additive intercropping of optimal density of Dragon\'s head + 25%, 50% and 75% of optimum density of dill variety Dukat, pure stand of dill variety Super dukat, additive intercropping of optimal density of Dragon\'s head + 25%, 50% and 75% of optimum density of dill variety Super dukat. Results showed that sole cropping of dill variety Dukat and sole dill variety Super dukat produced the highest grain yield and Number of inflorescences and harvest index and1000 grains weight. Among the intercropping systems, 50% of optimum density of dill variety and Super dukat recorded the highest essential oil yield.','Dill, Dragon\'s head, Intercropping, Essential oil yield, Yield.','This research showed that Dragon\'s head could be an effective plant in intercropping system and could promote dill growing characters. Further long-term experiments will be necessary in order to demonstrate the application of such a technique to other medicinal and aromatic plant mixtures. \r\nIntercropping of Dill with Dragon\'s head caused significant reductions in dill yield due to competition. Better Essential oil yield was obtained in plots pure stand of Dragon\'s head and better oil yield was obtained in plots 50% of optimum density of dill variety Dukat andSuper dukat. \r\n','Intercropping is a sustainable practice used in many developed and developing countries and an essential element of agricultural sustainability. Intercropping allows lower inputs through reduced fertilizer and pesticide requirements, thus minimizing environmental impacts of agriculture (Lithourgidis et al. 2011). It is known that legumes give benefits to the soil such as improved nutrient availability, improved structure, reduced pest and disease incidence, and hormonal effects through rhyzodeposition (Wani et al. 1995). The major benefit of legume crops comes from biologically nitrogen fixation, deriving from the symbiosis involving leguminous plants and rhizobium bacteria (Vance 1998). \r\nThe main advantage of intercropping is the more efficient utilization of the available resources and the increased productivity compared with each monocrop of the mixture (Launay et al. 2009). For example, intercropping of maize with cowpea increased light interception, and improved soil moisture conditions compared with maize mono cropping (Ghanbari et al. 2010). \r\nDill (Anethum graveolens L.) is an annual herb used as carminative, and antispasmodic in medicine (Bailer et al. 2001, Sharma 2004) also its essential oil has an inhibitory effect on stored potatoes sprouting (Zehtab-Salmasi et al. 2006). Catizone et al. (1986) reported that intercropping between annual dill (Anethum graveolens L.), and perennial clary sage (Salvia sclarea L.) improved the efficiency of cropping systems. Carrubba et al. (2008) also reported that the presence of dill exerted residue in the soil had a significant effect on fennel seed yields at following years.\r\nDragon\'s head (Lallemantia iberica Fish. et Mey.) is an annual herb belongs to Lamiaceae family and spreads in southwestern Asia and Europe (Ursu and Borcean, 2012). It grows well in arid zones and requires a light well-drained soil (Ion et al., 2011). Dragon\'s head is a valuable species, i.e. all plant parts (leaves or seeds) can be economically used (Hedrick, 1972). However, it is mainly cultivated for its seeds that contain about 30% oil with iodic index between 163 and 203. These seeds are used traditionally as stimulant, diuretic and expectorant as well as food (Naghibi, 1999). \r\nMixtures can be formed by adding together the plant populations used in the pure stands (Agboola and Fayemi 1971). This means that in such additive intercropping the total plant population of the mixtures is doubled when two crops are intercropped in this manner (Ebwongu et al. 2001).\r\n \r\n Arjomand, Salmasi, Nasrollahzadeh and Shafagh-Kolvanagh 296\r\n \r\nIn other words, an inherent feature of additive intercropping is that the total plant population of the mixture is greater than that of the pure stands, which may contribute to its yield advantage. The alternative method of forming crop mixtures is the \'replacement series\' technique, in this method mixtures are formed by replacing a certain proportion of one species by another while keeping the total plant population pressure constant. The technique allows formation of a range of mixtures with different proportions of the two species (Willey and Osiru 1972). Some further interest in the potential role of medicinal and aromatic plants in intercropping systems has arisen from the widespread trend toward the cultivation. So the main idea of this study was introducing of suitable sowing patterns on these two medicinal plants. \r\nMATERIALS AND METHODS\r\nThe field experiment was conducted in 2015 at the Research Farm of the University of Tabriz, Iran (latitude 38°05_N, longitude 46°17_E, altitude 1360 m above sea level). The climate of research area is characterized by mean annual precipitation of 285 mm, mean annual temperature of 10°C and mean annual minimum temperature of 4.2°C maximum temperature of 16.6°C. The experiment was arranged in a randomized complete block design, with three replications and nine treatments. The treatments were represented by the following; different planting patterns: pure stand of Dragon\'s head, pure stand of dill variety Dukat, additive intercropping of optimal density of Dragon\'s head + 25%, 50% and 75% of optimum density of dill variety Dukat, pure stand of dill variety Super dukat, additive intercropping of optimal density of Dragon\'s head + 25%, 50% and 75% of optimum density of dill variety Super dukat. All plots were irrigated immediately after sowing.\r\nThe main and secondary crops were Dragon\'s head and dill, respectively. As dill seeds are sensitive to seed bed, though soft and smooth seed bed prepared and covered by thin layer of sand silt. Each plot consists of 16 rows, seeds planted 15 cm apart and 1-2 cm deep. Optimum density for dill and Dragon\'s head were 40 and 160 plant/m2, respectively. Weed controls were regularly performed by hands. Both plants were harvested after technical maturity and then laboratory measurements performed. \r\nThe evaluated traits for dill were number of inflorescences, 1000 grains weight, grain yield and biological, harvest index, essential oil yield.\r\nStatistical analysis of the data was performed with MSTAT-C software. Duncan multiple rangetest was applied to compare means of each trait at 5% probability. \r\nRESULTS AND DISCUSSION\r\nAnalysis of variance for dill yield and yield components and essential oil yield (Table 1), showed that different intercropping patterns have a significant effect on all studied traits except biological yield. Marin et al. (1998) revealed that maize grain yield was not affected by intercropping. Mirhashemi et al. (2009) in the fenugreek and ajowan intercropping reported that different intercropping systems had no effect on 1000 seeds weight. Darzi (2012) showed that nitrogen fixing bacteria had significant effects on umbel number per plant and seed yield of coriander (Coriandrum sativum).\r\nDill mean comparisons (Table 2), revealed that the highest number of inflorescences and grain yield amounts were obtained from pure stand of dill variety Dukat, additive intercropping of optimal density of Dragon\'s head + 25% of optimum density of dill variety Dukat, pure stand of dill variety Super dukat and additive intercropping of optimal density of Dragon\'s head + 25% of optimum density of dill variety Super dukat. The least number of inflorescences was observed in additive intercropping of optimal density of Dragon\'s head + 50% and 75% of optimum density of dill variety Super dukat dill (Table 2). Gangwar and Kalra (1982) found that the dry matter accumulation and grain yield of rain fed maize grown in mixture with legumes increased compared to sole maize. Boroomand zadeh et al. (2009) and Gill et al (1999) mentioned that by increasing of density, the umbels per plant decreased. \r\nStatistical analysis of the data indicated that different intercropping patterns significant effect on 1000 grains weight and harvest index of dill (Table 1). Maximum 1000 grains weight (2.283 g) was obtained in additive intercropping of optimal density of pure stand of dill variety Dukat. Minimum 1000 grain weight was recorded in the additive intercropping of optimal density of Dragon\'s head + 75% of optimum density of dill variety Super dukat, Maximum harvest index pure stand of dill variety Dukat, additive intercropping of optimal density of Dragon\'s head + 25% of optimum density of dill variety Dukat, pure stand of dill variety Super dukat (Table 2).\r\nThe treatments were represented by the following; different planting patterns treatment: A1, A2, A3, A4, A5,A6,A7 and A8: respectively, pure stand of dill variety Dukat, additive intercropping of optimal density of Dragon\'s head + 25%, 50% and 75% of optimum density of dill variety Dukat, pure stand of dill variety Super dukat, additive intercropping of optimal density of Dragon\'s head + 25%, 50% and 75% of optimum density of dill variety Super dukat. Almost in all the treatments intercropped dill plants produced a significantly higher amount of essential oil when compared to mono cultured plants (Table 2) Maffei and Mucciarelli (2003) relived that in peppermint/soybean strip intercropping, essential oil content increased up to 50% and quality of essential oil improved. \r\nDill mean comparisons (Table 2), revealed that the highest Essential oil yield amounts were obtained from additive intercropping of optimal density of Dragon\'s head + 50% of optimum density of dill variety Dukat and Super dukat, Minimum essential oil yield was recorded in the pure stand of dill variety Super dukat. \r\n','Ahmad Rezaei Arjomand, Saeid Zehtab Salmasi, Safar Nasrollahzadeh and Jalil Shafagh-Kolvanagh (2016). Effect of Intercropping Patterns of Dragon\'s Head and Dill (Anethum graveolens L.) on Yield, Yield Components and Essential Oil Yield of Dill.Biological Forum – An International Journal 8(1): 295-298. '),(4775,'125','Evaluation of Bio-Agents, Botanicals and Fungicides under in vitro conditions against Macrophomina phaseolina (Tassi) Goid Causing Charcoal Rot of Cowpea','Nitika Kumari*, A.K. Meena, S.L. Godara, Vijay Shree Gahlot and S. Dilip Kumar Reddy','16 Evaluation of Bio-Agents, Botanicals and Fungicides under in vitro conditions against Macrophomina phaseolina Tassi Goid Causing Charcoal Rot of Cowpea Nitika Kumari1.pdf','',1,'In recent years, it has been observed that charcoal rot of cowpea caused by Macrophomina phaseolina is becoming major problem in arid regions of India especially Rajasthan. The main aim of this investigation was to find out the suitable controlling measure for Macrophomina phaseolina which will benefit farmers in increasing the production of cowpea. The in vitro study was taken to evaluate the efficacy of bio-agents, botanicals and fungicides against M. phaseolina. The antagonistic action of two fungal bio-agents viz., Trichoderma harzianum and T. viride and two bacterial bio-agents viz., Pseudomonas fluorescens and Bacillus subtilis were evaluated. Similarly, seven botanicals viz., Azadirachta indica, NSKE, Datura stramonium, Tinospora cordifolia, Leptadenia pyrotechnica, Allium sativum and Ocimum sanctum and five fungicides viz., tebuconazole 50% + trifloxystrobin 25% WG, carbendazim 12% + mancozeb 63% WP, captan 70%WP, hexaconazole 5% + captan 70%WP and carboxin 37.5% + thiram 37.5% WS were evaluated against M. phaseolina. Among the bio-agents maximum growth inhibition was recorded in T. harzianum (73.33%) as compared to other bio-agents. Among botanicals the maximum mycelial growth inhibition was recorded by Allium sativum (53.70%, 79.26%, 87.04% and 98.15%) followed by Azadirachta indica (39.63%, 43.33%, 52.59% and 57.41%) at 5, 10, 15 and 20% concentrations respectively. Least growth inhibition was found in Ocimum sanctum (6.67%, 8.15%, 12.96% and 18.89%). Among fungicides, mycelial growth inhibition at all the tested concentrations viz., 0.05, 0.1 and 0.2 % was found maximum in tebuconazole 50% + trifloxystrobin 25% WG which showed 100% growth inhibition at all concentrations while captan 70% WP was found least effective (70.70%, 83.59% and 100% respectively).','Bio-agents, botanicals, fungicides, in vitro, Macrophomina phaseolina','In the following study, in case of bioagents, Trichoderma harzianum, Allium sativum among phytoextracts and tebuconazole 50% + trifloxystrobin 25% WG among fungicides were found highly effective in inhibiting the mycelial growth of M. phaseolina under in vitro conditions. Thus promising results can be achieved if they can be taken into consideration at field levels for efficient management of this disastrous pathogen.','INTRODUCTION \r\nCowpea (Vigna unguiculata (L.) Walp.) has become a crucial legume crop in Indian sub-continent owing to its versatility. It is found in tropical, sub-tropical, arid and semi- arid regions all over the world with differing morphology and ecology (Ng, 1990, Quinn, 1999 and PainoD’urzo et al., 1990). It has origin from Africa and belongs to the family Fabaceae (Cobley, 1956) It can be used as pulse, vegetable, fodder and green manure crop and generally grown as an intercrop with millets such as sorghum (Asiwe, 2007). Cowpea is also known as ‘vegetable meat’ due to its high content of protein (26.61%). It is also a rich source of carbohydrates (56.24%), lipids (3.99%) and gross energy (1.51%) (Owolabi et al., 2012). The crop is usually preferred by farmers because it enriches the soil with nitrogen through biological nitrogen fixation and produce highly nutritious cattlefeed (Blade et al., 1997).\r\nThe crop is affected by many fungal, bacterial, viral, phytoplasmal and nematodal diseases (Emechebe and Lagoke 2002). The major diseases are root rot, charcoal rot, rust, wilt, leaf spots, cercospora leaf blight, powdery mildew, yellow mosaics etc. Among all the fungal diseases of cowpea, the most destructive is charcoal rot of cowpea caused by Macrophomina phaseolina causing potential yield losses (Lodha and Singh 1984). The pathogen Macrophomina phaseolina is reported to be soil, seed and stubble borne (Smith, 1969). A charcoal like appearance can be observed at the collar region of affected host plants, hence the disease is named charcoal rot. Macrophomina phaseolina affects the cowpea crop at all the developing stages from germination to flowering to adult. In general, they gain entry into host by natural openings (Bressano et al., 2010). The severe incidence is usually observed at post-flowering stage. In advance stage scattered sclerotial bodies may be seen on the affected tissues (Singh and Srivastava 1988). The disease is most severe at a temperature range of 28-32°C. Owing to its seed and soil borne nature, the disease can be managed in an integrated manner through the use of bio-agents (El-Barougy et al.,2009), botanicals (Dubey et al., 2009) and chemical fungicides (El- Baz, 2007). Considering the importance of the disease and the heavy losses incurred by it, the investigation was undertaken.\r\nMATERIALS AND METHODS\r\nAn experiment was conducted in Kharif 2018 for testing the efficacy of bio-agents, botanicals and fungicides against M. phaseolina in laboratory conditions. \r\nA. Bio-agents\r\nTwo fungal antagonists viz., Trichoderma harzianum and T. virideand bacterial antagonists Bacillus subtilis and Pseudomonas flourescens were evaluated in vitro against M. phaseolina using dual culture method and paper disc method (Loo et al., 1945) respectively. Seven days old culture of the test fungus (grown on PDA) and bio-agents (fungal bio-agents grown on PDA and P. flourescens and B. subtilis grown on PAF and NA media respectively) were used. For testing fungal bio-agents, one mycelial disc each of the test fungus and bio-agent were placed at periphery opposite to each other on solidified PDA media. Three replications were maintained. For testing bacterial antagonists, four sterilized filter paper discs of 5mm diameter were placed in bacterial suspension and were placed equidistantly at periphery with test fungal disc at the centre on solidified PDA media. Three replications were maintained. PDA plates inoculated only with culture disc of test fungus were considered as control. The plates were placed in BOD incubator at 28±2˚C. The observations were recorded till maximum mycelial growth occurred in control plates. \r\nB. Botanicals\r\nSeven botanicals viz., Azadirachta indica, NSKE, Datura stramonium, Tinospora cordifolia, Leptadenia pyrotechnica, Allium sativum and Ocimum sanctum were evaluated against M. phaseolina under in-vitro condition using poisoned food technique (Nene and Thapliyal, 1973). One hundred gram of fresh, healthy, thoroughly washed and air dried plant parts (leaves/stem/cloves/kernals) were macerated in 100ml distilled water (w/v) in mortar and pestle. The extract was strained through muslin cloth and further filtered through Whatmann No. 1 filter paper and centrifuged at 10000 rpm for 5-10 minutes. It was marked as stock solution. The stock solutions of these phytoextracts (5, 10, 15 and 20 %) were mixed with 95, 90, 85 and 80 ml of sterilized and cooled PDA media respectively. This gives 5, 10, 15 and 20 % concentrations of botanical extract. Twenty ml of such medium was poured in sterilized Petri plates under aseptic conditions, was cooled and solidified. Mycelial discs of M. phaseolina (5mm) was cut from the periphery of culture using sterilized cork borer and placed at the centre of each plates. Three replications were maintained. PDA plates inoculated only with culture disc of test fungus were considered as control. The plates were placed in BOD incubator at 28±2˚C. The observations were recorded till control plates were fully covered with mycelial growth of test fungus. \r\nC. Fungicides\r\nFive fungicides viz., tebuconazole 50% + trifloxystrobin 25% WG, carbendazim 12% + mancozeb 63% WP, captan 70%WP, hexaconazole 5% + captan 70%WP and carboxin 37.5% + thiram 37.5% WS were tested at a concentration of 0.05%, 0.1% and 0.2% against M. phaseolina using poisoned food technique (Nene and Thapliyal, 1973). 100 ml PDA medium was autoclaved at 121.6oC for 15 minutes. Required quantity of fungicides were calculated and mixed thoroughly with the sterilized medium separately. About 20 ml of poisoned media was poured in sterilized Petri plates and inoculated with 5 mm mycelial disc of M. phaseolina. Three replications were maintained for each treatment. The control plates without fungicides were inoculated with test pathogen and kept at 28±2°C in BOD incubator.\r\nPer cent inhibition for bio-agents, botanicals and fungicides was calculated using the following formula (Vincent, 1947):\r\nPer cent inhibition= (C-T)/C× 100 \r\nWhere,\r\nC = Radial growth of M. phaseolina in control (mm)\r\nT= Radial growth of M. phaseolina in presence of antagonist (mm)\r\nRESULTS AND DISCUSSION\r\nA. In vitro bio-efficacy of bio-agents\r\nResults (Table 1, Fig. 1 & Plate 1) indicates that all the bio-agents exhibited antagonistic activity against M. phaseolina and significantly inhibited mycelial growth of test fungus over control. The mycelial growth was least in the presence of T. harzianum (24 mm) followed by T. viride (30.97 mm), P. fluorescens (45.03 mm) and B. subtilis (54.93 mm). Maximum growth inhibition was recorded in T. harzianum (73.33%) which was significantly superior to the rest of the treatments viz., T. viride (65.59%), P. fluorescens (49.96 %) and B. subtilis (38.96%). Babu et al., (2002), Doley and Jite (2012),Bimla and Gaur (2016), Khaledi and Taheri (2016) and Meena and Gangopadhyay (2016) found Trichoderma spp., antagonistic to M. phaseolina in the research conducted by them.\r\nB. Testing the botanicals against M. phaseolina in vitro\r\nThe results (Table 2, Fig. 2 & Plate 2) revealed that all the botanicals/plant leaf extracts tested in vitro were found significantly effective in reducing the percentage mycelial growth of M. phaseolina over untreated control. \r\nAt 5% concentration least mycelial growth of Macrophomina phaseolina was recorded in Allium sativum (41.67 mm) followed by Azadirachta indica (54.33 mm) and Datura stramonium (65.67 mm) thus showing maximum mycelium growth inhibition of 53.70%, 39.63% and 27.04% respectively. Maximum mycelium growth was observed in Ocimum sanctum (84 mm) thus exhibiting least mycelial growth inhibition (6.67%). \r\nAt 10% concentration of plant extract, least mycelial growth of Macrophomina phaseolina was recorded in Allium sativum (18.67 mm) followed by Azadirachta indica (51mm) and Datura stramonium (52.33 mm). Ocimum sanctum (82.67 mm) showed maximum mycelium growth. All the tested botanicals significantly reduced the mycelial growth over the control. Maximum growth inhibition of 79.26% was recorded in Allium sativum followed by Azadirachta indica (43.33%) and Datura stramonium (41.85%). It is evident from the data that 10% concentration was more effective than the 5% concentration from all the tested botanicals and resulted more growth inhibition. Ocimum sanctum (8.15%) was least effective. \r\nAt 15% concentration of plant extract, least mycelial growth of Macrophomina phaseolina was also recorded in Allium sativum (11.67 mm) followed by Azadirachta indica (42.67 mm) and Datura stramonium (48.33 mm). Ocimum sanctum (78.33mm) showed maximum mycelium growth. The trends of growth inhibition were similar as reported in 5% & 10% concentrations. Among these botanicals, maximum growth inhibition was recorded in Allium sativum (87.04%) followed by Azadirachta indica (52.59%) and Datura stramonium (46.30%). The least effective botanical was Ocimum sanctum (12.96%). Data revealed that 15% concentration is further more effective in growth inhibition as compared to 5% and 10% concentration.\r\nAt 20% concentration of botanical extract was found most effective in inhibiting the growth of Macrophomina phaseolina. The similar pattern was followed as mentioned in the mycelium growth and growth inhibition by 5%, 10% and 15%. Least mycelial growth of Macrophomina phaseolina was recorded in Allium sativum (1.67 mm) followed by Azadirachta indica (38.33 mm) and Datura stramonium (42.33 mm). Ocimum sanctum (73mm) showed maximum mycelium growth. Maximum growth inhibition was recorded in Allium sativum (98.15%) followed by Azadirachta indica (57.41%) and Datura stramonium (52.96%). Among all the tested botanical extract the least effective was Ocimum sanctum showing a growth inhibition of 18.89%.\r\nThe results of present investigation corroborated with the findings of Dhingani et al., (2013); Meena et al., (2014) found that Allium sativum significantly inhibited the mycelial growth of M. phaseolina. \r\nC. Efficacy of fungicides\r\nFive fungicides viz., tebuconazole 50% + trifloxystrobin 25% WG, carbendazim 12% + mancozeb 63% WP, captan 70% WP, hexaconazole 5% + captan 70%WP and carboxin 37.5% + thiram 37.5% WS were tested at a concentration of 0.05%, 0.1% and 0.2% against M. phaseolina using poisoned food technique (Nene and Thapliyal 1973) in vitro. The table 3 & plate 3 shows the effectiveness of all the tested fungicides.\r\nAmong the tested fungicides at 0.05%, least mycelial growth of Macrophomina phaseolina was recorded in tebuconazole 50% + trifloxystrobin 25% WG (0 mm) followed by carbendazim 12% + mancozeb 63% WP (6.57 mm) and carboxin 37.5% + thiram 37.5% WS (11.47 mm). Captan 70% WP (26.37 mm) showed the highest mycelia growth. The most effective fungicide regarding growth inhibition was tebuconazole 50% + trifloxystrobin 25% WG (100%) followed by carbendazim 12% + mancozeb 63% WP (92.30%) and carboxin 37.5% + thiram 37.5% WS (87.26%). Captan 70% WP (70.70%) was found to be least effective.\r\nAt 0.1% concentration, no mycelium growth was observed in tebuconazole 50% + trifloxystrobin 25% WG, carbendazim 12% + mancozeb 63% WP and carboxin 37.5% + thiram 37.5% WS. Maximum mycelium growth was recorded in Captan 70% WP (12.23 mm). Cent percent growth inhibition was observed with tebuconazole 50% + trifloxystrobin 25% WG, carbendazim 12% + mancozeb 63% WP and carboxin 37.5% + thiram 37.5% WS. Captan 70% WP (83.59%) was found to be least effective.\r\nThe fungicidal concentration of 0.2% is most effective since no mycelial growth and 100% growth inhibition was observed in all tested fungicides. Thus the concentration of 0.2% is highly effective in inhibiting the mycelial growth of M. phaseolina.\r\nThe results resembled with the work done by Sangappa and Mallesh (2016) whose findings revealed that carbendazim fungicide gave maximum inhibition of mycelial growth at concentrations of 0.05, 0.1 and 0.2%. Ramadoss and Sivapraskasam (1994) reported that carbendazim completely inhibited the sclerotia development in the pathogen. Nativo resulted in minimum colony diameter of pathogen because it disrupts its metabolism and inhibits its growth and development. It forms covalent bond with sclerotia of pathogen (El-Fiki et al., 2004). Fungicides, carbendazim, carbendazim, + mancozeb and captan were reported inhibitory to M. phaseolina (Bainade et al., 2007; Suryawanshi et al., 2008, Kar and Sahu, 2009; Chaudhari and Chaudhari 2012).\r\n','Nitika Kumari, A.K. Meena, S.L. Godara, Vijay Shree Gahlot and S. Dilip Kumar Reddy (2022). Evaluation of Bio-Agents, Botanicals and Fungicides under in vitro Conditions against Macrophomina phaseolina (Tassi) Goid Causing Charcoal Rot of Cowpea. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 14(2): 84-90.'),(4776,'2','Foliar Application Effect of Putrescine on Antioxidative Defense of Wheat (Triticum aestivum L. var sw _82_9) under Water Deficit Stress','Zahra Karimi','50 ZAHRA KARIMI 1110.pdf','',1,'This study was aimed at the role of foliar application of putrescine (Put) on antioxidative defense of wheat (Triticum aestivum L. var Sw_82_9) under water deficit Stress. The experiment was done at Islamic Azad University farm, Varamin branch, during the wheat growing season (March to July). Factorial experiment with complete randomized in 12 treatment and 3 replication at three levels application of Put (0, 75 and 150 ppm) was carried out. Significant difference in Put concentration was not seen between withholding irrigation in steam elongation period and foliar application with pure water (P<0.05). Significant difference was not seen in super oxide dismutase (SOD) and catalase (CAT) activities between withholding irrigation in grain filling period and foliar application of Put (150 ppm), respectively (P<0.05). There was no significant difference in MDA activity between withholding irrigation in flowering, grain filling periods and foliar application of Put with 75 ppm (P<0.05) exogenous Put could increase antioxidant enzymes activity under water deficit stress.','Putrescine, Wheat, Water deficit stress, Polyamins,','It\'s critical that the exogenous PAs could increase antioxidant enzymes activity and prevention of cell damage specially under water deficit stress, however further studies are recommended','Water stress is one of the most important environmental factor which regulate plant condition including growth, production and development. Response to water stress by plants could alter the cellular metabolism, and presenting different defense mechanisms (Hassain et al., 2011). \r\nPlant ability to survival under this stressful condition depends on receiving the kinds of stimuli, generation, transmission of signals and in extremely, promote the different chemical and physiological changes .Various mechanisms are evoked by plants in response to water deficit stress. Plants can resist drought stress by morphological changes e.g. increasing in size of the root system or reducing leaf area via changing biochemical and physiological processes such as antioxidant defense systems and etc (Huang et al., 2001). Polyamines (PAs) including spermine (Spm) and their diamine obligate precursor, putrescine (Put), have frequently described as endogenous plant growth regulations or intracellular messengers mediating physiological responses (Hussain et al., 2012). Put can be directly synthesized from ornithine via ornithine decarboxylase or indirectly from arginine via arginine decarboxylase. PAs occur in cells in the free from, soluble conjugated as well as insoluble _conjugated forms and play the main role in many physiological process like cell division, morphogenesis, metabolism and apoptosis (Duan et al., 2008). Attentions has recently been focused on the role PAs in plant defense against abiotic and biotic stress which various kind of environmental stress like water stress, salinity can change their titer. Increase in PAs can be potently accomplished by inhibition in PAs biosynthetic enzyme activity so, increasing in spm and spermidine of wheat (Triticum aestivum) plant are seen under water stress which be associated with a reduction in drought stress (Alcazar, et al., 2010). Classical approaches including exogenous PAs application, enzyme inhibitors use in PAs biosynthesis show a proper model to test different hypotheses, and to answer substantial biological questions derived from pathway manipulation. Current plant response under biotic and abiotic stresses is reactive oxygen species (ROS) production. ROS is characterized by repletion of free radicals and toxic molecules O2-, H2O2, and OH- in tissues and in extremity, damage to plant. Super oxide dismutase (SOD), catalase (CAT), malondialdehyde (MDA) enzymes and ascorbate are compound capable of free radical neutralization and inhibition of cell damages (Takahashi and Kukehi 2009). So, this study was aimed at the role of foliar application of putrescine on antioxidative defense of wheat (Triticum aestivum L. var Sw_82_9) under water deficit Stress. \r\n \r\n\r\n Karimi 360\r\n \r\nMATERIAL & METHODS \r\nPlant material and treatment\r\nThe experiment was done on a farm at Islamic Azad University, Varamin branch, Tehran province, Iran during the wheat (Triticum aestivum var Sw_82_9) growing season (March_ July. Factorial experiment with complete randomized in 12 treatment and 3 replication at three levels application of Put (0,75 and 150 ppm) was carried out. Wheat seed line were grown at ground with 700m2 which 18 m2 were allocated for each treatment. The soil characteristics are summarized in Table 1. \r\n \r\nTable 1: Physical and chemical characteristics of experiment soil.\r\n \r\nDepth of sampling (Cm) Electrical\r\nConduction\r\n(mM.cm-1) \r\npH Total nitrogen Absorbable\r\nphosphorus Sand\r\n(%) clay\r\n0-30 1.45 7.2 0.07 9.4 32 22\r\n30-60 1.65 6.8 0.04 4.7 30.2 16\r\n \r\nMalondialdehyde (MDA): MDA measurement was done by Ohkaw et al., (1979). Briefly, 0.2 gr leaves divided to small pieces and homogenized with 2ml trichloroacetic acid 5% in adjacency of ice and centrifuged at 12000 rpm for 15 min.0.5 ml of supernatant mixed with 0.5 ml thiobarbituric acid + trichloroacetic acid 20% and incubated at 96 C for 25 min and again centrifuged at 10.000 rpm for 5 min in cold condition. Absorbance of supernatant was spectrophotometrically read at 532 nm. Thiobarbituric acid and trichloroacetic acid 20% was used as control and MDA was determined using standard curve.\r\nCatalase (CAT): CAT enzyme was measured by method of Paglia (1997). The young leaves were washed by distilled water and homogenated in 0.16 M Tris_phosphate buffer (pH:7.5) and then buffer containing digitonin enzyme was added at the same volume.0.5 ml of homogenized solution was evaluated for protein content and remnant were used for CAT measurement. The elimination rate of H2O2 (substrate) was evaluated and buffer containing 0.17 mM phosphate di-sodic, (pH:.7.5) ,0.15 M EDAT and 0.11 mM MgCl2.\r\nSuper oxide dismutase (SOD): 3 leaves (subsidiary leaves) were picked up at the morning from the farm and transferred to the laboratory in the icebox. The enzyme was measured by Misra method (Misra and Fridovich 1972). Initially, Tris buffer solution (phosphate, di-sodic, pH: 7.2) was added to 1.3 mM EDTA and 0.1mM monosodic carbonate, then epinephrine (0.25mM) was used as substrate. Enzyme activity was measured by spectrophotometer \r\n\r\n(absorbance changes) in comparison to standard solution. (Khashuei, 2010).\r\nDityrosin (Di-Ty): The leaves were washed by distilled water, immediately shattered in Tris-Phosphate buffer (0.16 M, pH:7.5) and homogenated. Buffer containing digitonin enzyme was added at the same volume to homogenated solution. 0.5 ml of homogenated solution was removed for protein evaluation and remnant was used for Di-Ty measurement by method Steven et al., 1978). Enzyme activity was measured by liquid chromatography.\r\nAscorbate: 1gr of leaves homogenized in 10 ml of 25 mM EPPS buffer (pH : 7.8) and then centrifuged at 15,000 g for 20 min. The supernatant was used for enzyme analysis. Activity of ascorbate peroxidase was measured by Nakano and Asada method (12) at 290 nm. The reaction mixture contained 25 mM phosphate buffer (pH: 7.0), 0.1 mM EDTA, 0.1 mM H2O2 ,0.25 ascorbate.\r\nAnalysis: The data were analyzed using SAS statistical software. The means were compared by Duncan\'s multiple range test and (P < 0.05) was considered significant.\r\nRESULTS AND DISCUSSION\r\nAnalysis of variance showed that the mean squares of SOD, CAT, Di-Ty and ascorbate concentrations after foliar application of Put were significantly increased with comparison to normal irrigation ( P < 0.05 ) (Table 2). The results showed that significant difference was seen between foliar application of Put with foliar application + normal irrigation for MDA (P < 0.05).\r\n \r\nResults showed that significant difference in Put concentration was seen between withholding irrigation in grain filling period and foliar application of Put (150ppm), also significant difference in Put concentration was not seen between stop irrigation in steam elongation period and foliar application with pure water (P<0.05). Significant difference was not seen in SOD and CAT activity between withholding irrigation in grain filling period and foliar application of Put (150 ppm), respectively (P<0.05). \r\nSignificant difference was not seen in Di-Ty MDA and SOD enzymes activity in foliar application of Put with 75 ppm and 150 ppm. There was significant difference in CAT activity between normal irrigation and foliar application of Put (150 ppm). There was no significant difference in MDA activity between stop irrigation in flowering, grain filling and foliar application of Put with 75 ppm, also no significant difference was seen between stop irrigation in grain filling and foliar application of pure water for ascorbate activity (P<0.05). The cell membrane stability is important in plants under different stressful conditions such as salinity and water deficit, so elevation of antioxidants levels play the main role in plants. PAs are low molecular weight compounds found in prokaryotes and eukaryotes and their presence are essential for growth and development (Zhao et al., 2007). In this study, the role of foliar application of Put on antioxidative defense of wheat under water deficit stress was investigated. There was significant difference in SOD, CAT, As and Di_Tyr enzymes activities between normal irrigation and foliar application of Put (P < 0.05). Amooaghaie reported the effective role of PAs (Spm, Put) in tolerance of soybean to water deficit stress which in accordance with our study (Amooaghaie, 2011). Rahdari et al. was reported the role of PAs on protein, chlorophyll and phenolic compounds in wheat under salinity stress which PAs improved chlorophyll and protein concentrations under salinity stress in root and shot. Shallan et al. in 2012 reported that Put caused enhancement of growth, increasing of pigments content, total antioxidant capacity and antioxidant enzyme activities in cotton plant (Shallan et al., 2012). Which in accordance with our study about enzyme activities. Emadi et al. reported the effect of foliar application of Put and nutrient elements on grain yield and quality of wheat which Put caused the longest effective grain filling period in wheat, also the highest leaf area duration (Emadi et al., 2013). Effect which in accordance with our study. Verma et al (2005) showed that Put increased the glutathions level and antioxygenic enzymes and elevating antioxidant by controlling free radical generation and finally improvement of seedling growth under salinity. \r\n','Zahra Karimi (2016). Foliar Application Effect of Putrescine on Antioxidative Defense of Wheat (Triticum aestivum L. var sw _82_9) under Water Deficit Stress. Biological Forum – An International Journal 8(1): 359-362. '),(4777,'2','Morphological Traits of Dragon\'s Head (Lallemantia iberica Fish. etMey.) Affected by Intercropping with Dill','Ahmad Rezaeiarjomand, Saeid Zehtab Salmasi, Safar Nasrollahzadeh and Jalil Shafagh-Kolvanagh','58 AHMAD REZAEIARJOMAND.pdf','',1,'In order to investigate the effect of intercropping with dill on morphological traits of Dragon\'s head (Lallemantia iberica Fish. etMey.), an experiment was arranged in RCB design with three replications. Intercropping patterns included; pure stand of Dragon\'s head, pure stand of dill variety Dukat, additive intercropping of optimal density of Dragon\'s head + 25%, 50% and 75% of optimum density of dill variety Dukat, pure stand of dill variety Super dukat, additive intercropping of optimal density of Dragon\'s head + 25%, 50% and 75% of optimum density of dill variety Super dukat. Plant height, number of lateral stems, leaf number and plant weight were recorded. Results showed that intercropping had significant effects on all of these characteristics. Superior effects of intercropping on these traits were achieved in additive intercropping of optimal density of Dragon\'s head + 25% treatments. In addition, regarding to the intercropping effects, highest amount of plant height, number of lateral stems, leaf number and plant weight were recorded at pure stand of Dragon\'s head treatments, According to the results obtained, pure stand of Dragon\'s head the best combination for Dragon\'s head morphological traits.','Dragon\'s head, intercropping, morphological traits ','This research showed that Dragon\'s head could be an effective plant in intercropping system. Further long-term experiments will be necessary in order to demonstrate the application of such a technique to other medicinal and aromatic plant mixtures. Intercropping of Dill with Dragon\'s head caused significant reductions in morphological traits of Dragon\'s head due to competition. ','In recent years, a trend in agricultural production systems has changed towards achieving high productivity and promotes sustainability over time. Farmers are developing different crop production systems to increase productivity and sustainability since ancient times. This includes crop rotation, relay cropping and intercropping of major crops with other crops. Intercropping, the agricultural practice of cultivating two or more crops in the same space at the same time is an old and commonly used cropping practice which aims to match efficiently crop demands to the available growth resources and labor. The most common advantage of intercropping is the production of greater yield on given piece of land by making more efficient use of the available growth resources using a mixture of crops of different rooting ability, canopy structure, height, and nutrient requirements based on the complementary utilization of growth resources by the Dragon\'s head (Lallemantia iberica Fish. et Mey.) is an annual herb that belongs to Lamiaceae family and spreads in southwestern Asia and Europe (Ursu and Borcean, 2012). It grows well in arid zones and requires a light well-drained soil (Ion et al., 2011). Dragon\'s head is a valuable species, i.e. all plant parts (leaves or seeds) can be economically used (Hedrick, 1972). However, it is mainly cultivated for its seeds that contain about 30% oil with iodic index between 163 and 203. These seeds are used traditionally as stimulant, diuretic and expectorant as well as in food (Naghibi, 1999). Due to the lack of relevant information, the present research was conducted to determine the effects of intercropping patterns of dill and Dragon\'s head on morphological traits of Dragon\'s head. \r\nMATERIAL AND METHODS\r\nThe field experiment was conducted in 2015 at the Research Farm of the University of Tabriz, Iran (latitude 38°05_N, longitude 46°17_E, altitude 1360 m above sea level). The climate of research area is characterized by mean annual precipitation of 285 mm, mean annual temperature of 10°C and mean annual minimum temperature of 4.2°C maximum temperature of 16.6°C. The experiment was arranged in a randomized complete block design, with three replications and nine treatments. The treatments were represented by the following; different planting patterns: pure stand of Dragon\'s head, pure stand of dill variety Dukat, additive intercropping of optimal density of Dragon\'s head + 25%, 50% and 75% of optimum density of dill variety Dukat, pure stand of dill variety Super dukat, additive intercropping of optimal density of Dragon\'s head + 25%, 50% and 75% of optimum density of dill variety Super dukat. All plots were irrigated immediately after sowing.\r\n \r\n\r\n\r\n Rezaeiarjomand, Salmasi, Nasrollahzadeh and Shafagh-Kolvanagh 412\r\n \r\nThe main and secondary crops were Dragon\'s head and dill, respectively. As dill seeds are sensitive to seed bed, though soft and smooth seed bed prepared and covered by thin layer of sand silt. Each plot consists of 16 rows, seeds planted 15 cm apart and 1-2 cm deep. Optimum density for dill and Dragon\'s head were 40 and 160 plant/m2, respectively. Weed controls were regularly performed by hands. Both plants were harvested after technical maturity and then laboratory measurements performed. Measurement of traits to specify Plant height, number of lateral stem, leaf number and weight per plant ten plants were selected from the middle of the plots and then, they were measured. Harvested plants were dried in 25°C and under shadow and air flow then grains were separated from their remains by threshing.\r\nA. Statistical analysis \r\nStatistical analysis of the data was performed with MSTAT-C software. Duncan multiple range test was applied to compare means of each trait at 5% probability. \r\nRESULTS AND DISCUSSION\r\nAnalysis of variance for dill yield and yield components and essential oil yield (Table 1), showed that different intercropping patterns have a significant effect on all studied traits.\r\nStatistical analysis of the data indicated that different intercropping patterns had significant effect on plant height of Dragon\'s head (Table 2). Maximum plant height (45.67 cm) was pure stand of Dragon\'s head treatment. Minimum plant height was recorded in the additive intercropping of optimal density of Dragon\'s head + 75% of optimum density of dill variety Dukat treatment (Table 2). The canopy characteristics of crops are not constant, but may change due to the presence of other crops species (Caldwell, 1987). This result is similar with finding of Silwana and Lucas (2002) who reported that plant height of maize intercropped with both beans and pumpkin were adversely affected by intercropping conditions. Maize plants were taller for sole crops compared to when intercropped with beans, both in the presence of weed infestation. In other results, (Thwala and Ossom, 2004) did not find any significant difference in plant height between mono cropping and intercropping of maize with sugar bean and ground nuts. According to Akobundu (1993). \r\nLateral stem of Dragon\'s head significantly affected by intercropping patterns (Table 2). Dragon\'s head plants in the sole cropping system treatment produced the highest mean number (7.1) of lateral stem and this was significantly different from the other cropping systems (Table 2). Additive intercropping of optimal density of additive intercropping of optimal density of Dragon\'s head + 75% of optimum density of dill variety Super dukat. Treatment produced the least lateral stem which was (Table 2). \r\nAlizade et al., (2009) reported that the lateral stem of Ocimum basilicum and Phaseolus vulgaris decreased in intercropping system under no weeds control treatments.\r\nNumber of leaf of Dragon\'s head significantly affected by intercropping patterns (Table 1). Dragon\'s head plants in the sole cropping system treatment produced the highest mean number (26.02) of number of leaf and this was significantly different from the other cropping systems (Table 2). Additive intercropping of optimal density of additive intercropping of optimal density of Dragon\'s head + 75% of optimum density of dill variety Super dukat and Dukat treatment produced the least number of leaf which was (Table 2).\r\nWeight per plant of Dragon\'s head significantly affected by intercropping patterns (Table 1). Dragon\'s head plants in the sole cropping system treatment produced the highest mean number (5.12g) of weight per plant and this was significantly different from the other cropping systems (Table 2). Additive intercropping of optimal density of additive intercropping of optimal density of Dragon\'s head + 75% of optimum density of dill variety Super Dukat produced the least weight per plant which was (Table 2). The treatments were represented by the following; different planting patterns treatment: A1, A2, A3, A4, A5, A6 and A7: respectively, pure stand of Dragon\'s head, additive intercropping of optimal density of Dragon\'s head + 25%, 50% and 75% of optimum density of dill variety Dukat, additive intercropping of optimal density of Dragon\'s head + 25%, 50% and 75% of optimum density of dill variety Super dukat. \r\n','Ahmad Rezaeiarjomand, Saeid Zehtab Salmasi, Safar Nasrollahzadeh and Jalil Shafagh-Kolvanagh (2016). Morphological Traits of Dragon\'s Head (Lallemantia iberica Fish. etMey.) Affected by Intercropping with Dill. Biological Forum – An International Journal 8(1): 411-413. '),(4778,'2','Expression of a Recombinant Therapeutic Protein, Lactoferrin, in PichiaPinkTM: a Powerful Antimicrobial Protein','Elnaz Alamdari, Ali Niazi, Adel Yarizade, Ali Moghadam and Farzaneh Aram','67 ALI NIAZI.pdf','',1,'Lactoferrin (LF), an iron binding glycoprotein, is a part of the innate immune system that has a wide range of biological activities such as antimicrobial, antiviral, anticancer, antioxidant, anti-inflammatory activities, and several enzymatic activities as well. In this study, recombinant camel LF was expressed in the protease knockout yeast strain, PichiaPinkTM, using an inducible secretion cassette. After transformation, some of clones that had formed on the adenine free medium was selected for protein expression induction and bacterial growth inhibition test. A time-course study (24, 48, 96, 144 h) showed that inhibitory of the bacterial growth in all time point was highly significant, but the secreted protein concentration after 48 h alcohol induction was higher than other time points. Our results demonstrated that expressed recombinant camel LF using this system was secreted appropriately and it is active against Staphylococcus aureus','recombinant protein, Lactoferrin, yeast expression system, antibacterial','Since increasing of antibiotic-resistant bacteria strains and side effect of synthetic pharmaceuticals, evaluation of natural antimicrobial agents such as protein and peptides is valuable, nowadays. LF is one of these valuable peptides that has high antibacterial properties that was produced in various expression systems such as plant, insect cells, and yeasts.\r\nPichiaPinkTM expression system is better in compared with other expression systems because of mentioned advantages. Regarding to results of this study, PichiaPinkTM expression system would be appropriated for LF production and application of this valuable protein in food industry.\r\n','The development of molecular biology and more accurate understanding the components of cellular and molecular mechanisms, particular recombinant DNA technology, led the experts used these findings in order to generate new combinations with large quantities and higher efficiency in microorganisms that did not exist in grams by use of foreign resources.\r\nApplication of recombinant DNA technology help to produce therapeutic proteins from diverse sources including more than 400 human therapeutic proteins and peptides that have therapeutic potential ability and yet more than 200 of them is approved by the US Food and Drug Administration (FDA). Insulin, albumin, interferon, human growth hormones and monoclonal antibodies have been considered as therapeutic (Demian and Vaishnav, 2009). Recently a high percentage of protein used in various industries are recombinant protein that thriving market is dedicated to them. Some of these enzymes includes protease, amylase, lipase, cellulase, lactase and xylanase, which are used in the food, detergents, textiles, leather, paper and polymers industries. Enzyme production efficiency, stability and activity increased by help of protein engineering (Demian and Vaishnav, 2009). \r\nDiseases transmitted by food intake are a major problem in public health (Swaminathan et al., 2005). Control of microbial food pathogens is very important and several methods have been used to control or inhibit the growth of food borne pathogens including natural and synthetic antimicrobial agents (Payne et al., 1994). Nowadays consumer demand for natural methods that control food borne pathogens is rising. Nisin and LF are example of compounds that can be used as a natural preservative in food products (Cleveland et al., 2001).\r\nLF is an iron-binding glycoprotein that is part of the transferrin protein family. LF is produced by mucosal epithelial cells in various mammalian species, including humans, cows, goats, horses, dogs, and several rodents (Torres et al., 2006). This multifunctional protein also use as a natural preservative and has been found in mammalian secretions such as milk, colostrum, tears, saliva, nasal and bronchial fluid, hepatic bile, stomach, intestines, and urinary (Odeh et al., 2000; Oztas et al., 2005).\r\nThis protein is a part of the innate immune system (Legrang et al., 2010) and represents one of the first barrier against microbial agents invading that inhibit cell growth by sequester of iron and it has a wide range of biological activities such as antimicrobial, antiviral, anticancer, antioxidant, anti-inflammatory activities, immunomodulatory, regulation of gene expression, cell growth modulators and several enzyme activities (Wakabayashi et al., 1999; Payne et al., 1990; 1994). Researchers were looking for the easiest way to produce LF for several decades and currently the principal approach is purification of natural LF from milk and colostrum of several mammals, production of recombinant LF via bacterial and fungal expression systems and transgenic plants and animals. \r\n\r\n\r\n Alamdari, Niazi, Yarizade, Moghadam and Aram 472\r\n \r\nPurification of LF from native sources such as milk is time-consuming and costly as well as the purification efficiency and protein purity is very low. Safety concerns about protein contamination with some dangerous animal pathogens are always raised. Hence recombinant proteins production in different systems such as mushrooms, yeasts, animals and transgenic plants has been also developed (Conesa et al., 2010). \r\nComparison of yeast with other expression systems, offers many advantages of recombinant protein production. Yeasts have relatively high growth rate, they has been described genetically and unlike bacteria are known to run many post-translational modifications. Working with yeast host to protein expression compared to the cells of insects and mammals is more convenient and less costly (Demian and Vaishnav, 2009). Saccharomyces cerevisiae and methylotrophic yeasts are the most important host among yeast expression systems. Methylotrophic yeast, Pichia pastoris has shown numerous potential to produce recombinant proteins. It has many advantages such as posttranslational modifications, easy to manipulate with high availability of intracellular and secreted recombinant protein and large-scale growth in simple and inexpensive medium (Demian and Vaishnav, 2009). However, after over 20 years, some limitations and disadvantages of the P. pastoris system have been gradually uncovered. The PichiaPinkTM strains are the mutants of P. pastoris which can be used for high-level and large-scale production of secreted bioactive recombinant proteins. The new strain, PichiaPinkTM offers the following advantages over traditional P. pastoris strains based protein expression system. (1) Selection of expression clones using ADE2 complementation (adenine auxotrophy). (2) The transformation efficiency of the PichiaPinkTM is in high rate and all transformants usually express the interest proteins. (3) Three protease knockout PichiaPinkTM strains help to reduce the impact of protease activity on degradation of the recombinant protein. (4) ADE2 complementation ensures higher stability of transformants during scale-up of protein expression. (5) The growth media is not complex and easy to screen transgenic PichiaPinkTM clones. (6) Intracellular protein expression using the pPINKk-HC (high copy) and pPINK-LC (low copy) vectors by removing the secretion signal sequences at the cloning step is possible as well as their general growth conditions and handling requirements are quite similar to S. cerevisiae. This system offers four ade2 strains. (1) Strain 1 is the ade2 knockout that is unable to grow on adenine free medium. (2) Strain 2 is pep4 knockout which prevents it from synthesize of proteinase A. (3) Strain 3 is prb1 knockout which is lack of proteinase B production ability and (4) Strain 4 is double knockout for both proteinases A and B, hence has the lowest protease activity among the PichiaPinkTM strains (Cregg et al., 2000; Daly & Hearn, 2005).\r\nStudies on Arabian camel LF (Camelus dramedarius) have showed that this protein has anti-bacterial and anti-viral activities (khan et al., 2001; Rel-Redwan and tabll, 2007; liao et al., 2012; Sohrabi et al., 2014). Investigations on natural LF isolated from the camel milk and recombinant LF produced by insect cell culture have been done. According to the mentioned reasons above, this study was conducted by the aim of recombinant LF production in PichiaPinkTM (strain 4) in order to food industry applications.\r\nMATHERIAL AND METHODS \r\nThis study was conducted at Institute of Biotechnology, College of Agriculture, Shiraz University, Islamic Republic of Iran.\r\nA. Strains and vectors\r\nEscherichia coli strain Top10 was used as a cloning host for amplification and storage of construction of the recombinant vector. PichiaPinkTM strain 4 (Invitrogen, Carlsbad, CA, USA) was used for protein expression. Secretion expression vector pPinkα-HC (Invitrogen) was used for genetic cloning and extracellular protein expression. Staphylococcus aureus PTCC 1112(ATCC 6538) was obtained from the Iranian Research Organization for Science and Technology (IROST) in order to the antimicrobial assay.\r\nB. Enzymes and reagents\r\nOligonucleotide primers were synthesized by MWG Biotech (Marburg, Germany). StuI, KpnI, BamHI, T4 DNA ligase, PrimeSTAR Pfu DNA polymerase (Takara), dNTPs, and DNA marker were purchased from Fermentas (Hanover, MD, USA). Plasmid and gel DNA extraction kits were purchased from Vivantis (Selangor Darul Ehsan, Malaysia). Anti-His tag antibody was obtained from BioLegend (San Diego, CA, USA).\r\nC. Cloning of LF\r\nCloning of LF(cDNA encoding the Camelus dromedaries lactoferrin (cLf) was isolated from mammary gland by Sohrabi et al., 2014) into the pPINK α-HC vector was done by using specific primers that were designed based on LF sequence (NCBI accession number; KF915308) using Allele ID 6 software. These primers were called LacPichF and LacPichR (LacPichR with Kpn1 site at the 5ʹ end). In addition to, to cloning verification partial primers were used (Table 1). PCR was performed to amplify gene of interest (Table 2). In order to increase cloning efficiency, PCR product was purified by Gel DNA Recovery Kit based on Vivantis procedure.\r\nTo insert desired gene in pPINKα-HC expression vector, digestion reaction was performed by KpnI and StuI restriction enzymes as the following condition (table 3). Then, the digested product was used in the ligation reaction. The ligation reaction with 20 µl final volume including the target gene and expression vector was done according to the manufacturer\'s protocol and was incubated at 22oC. After 16 h, the ligation product was transformed to the competent E. coli cells by freeze and thaw method. After 1 hour, the transformed cells were cultured on LB medium supplemented with ampicillin 100 mg/L and were incubated over night at 37oC. PCR was done with LF specific primers to verify the transformed colonies that were formed on the selection medium. Plasmid extraction was done from positive and was digested by BamHI for further cloning verification.\r\nD. PichiaPinkTM transformation and PCR screening\r\nThe purified recombinant plasmid was linearized by SpeI. Then, the transformation was continued according to the next proceduresFirst each strain (working glycerol stock) was spreaded on YPD (Yeast extract, Peptone, and Dextrose) medium and was incubated at 28°C for one day to getting the single colonies. Then, one colony was inoculated into the 10 mL YPD medium in a sterile 125 mL baffled flask and was placed in shaker-incubator at 28°C for 1 day, 200 rpm. This was the starter culture for the next step. Since adequate aeration is important for a fifth flask volume we filled. Then, 20 µl of the starter culture was inoculated into the 100 mL of YPD medium in a sterile 1 liter flask and was shaked in shaker-incubator under the same conditions until optical density reached to 1.5 at wavelength 600 nm (approximately 10 h). In the next step, cells were collected by centrifugation at 1500 ×g at 4 °C for 5 min and the pellet was resuspended using 8 mL of ice-cold sterile buffer. Centrifugation was repeated and then it was resuspended in 2 mL of 1 M ice-cold sorbitol. The previous step was repeated, but the pellet was resuspended in 1.5 mL of ice-cold 1 M sorbitol. After centrifugation, the pellet was resuspended in 5 mL ice-cold distilled water. Finally, centrifugation was repeated and the pellet was resuspended in 350 µl ice-cold distilled water. These competent cells were kept on ice for the transformation step. Then, 30 µg of the linearized recombinant plasmid was added to 200 µl of the competent cells, mixed by pipetting slowly, transferred into an ice-cold 0.2 cm electroporation cuvette and was incubated on ice to increase of the transformation efficiency. The suspension was pulsed using electroporator according to Bio-Rad\'s instructions. After electroporation, 1 mL of ice-cold YPD medium was added to the cuvette, mixed by pipetting immediately, and incubated at 28 °C without shaking for 12 h. Finally, 300 µl of the putative transformant cells was spreaded on the PAD (Pichia Adenine Dropout) selection medium.\r\n \r\n Alamdari, Niazi, Yarizade, Moghadam and Aram 474\r\n \r\nThe genomic DNA was isolated from untransformed and transformed PichiaPinkTM according to Invitrogen procedure. PCR analysis was done using specific primers, forward primer based on the α-factor signal and reverse primer based on the CYC1 on the vector, to determine integration of LF into the genome of PichiaPinkTM strain 4. The positive transformed cells were transferred in the induction medium to expression of LF. In addition to, total RNA was isolated from induced cells according to Invitrogen procedure and non-induced cells were used as negative control. According to Fermentas protocol, cDNA synthesis was done using 3 μg of total RNA, 15 pmol dNTPs, 20 U RNase inhibitor, 100 pmol 18 mer oligo-dT and 200 U M-Mulv reverse transcriptase in a 20 μl final volume. The synthesized cDNA was used as the template for PCR reaction with Lac-Part F and LacPich R primers in order to verify if LF was induced and transcribed.\r\nE. Expression of LF in induction medium\r\nConfirmed transformant cells were inoculated in 10 mL of BMGY Medium (Buffered Glycerol-complex Medium; 1 % yeast extract, 2 % pepton, 100 mM potassium phosphate pH 6.0, 1.34 % YNB, and 1 % glycerol) in 125 mL baffled flask and then were incubated overnight at 28oC with shaking at 200 rpm in order to provide optimal growth conditions. The cells were transferred to falcon 50 mL conical tubes and were centrifuged at 1500 ×g for 5 min at room temperature.\r\nTo induce the LF expression, first the pellets were resuspended in 1 mL induction medium, BMMY (Buffered Methanol-complex Medium-yeast expression medium; 1 % yeast extract, 2 % pepton, 100 mM potassium phosphate (pH 6.0), 1.34 % YNB, and 0.5 % methanol), and were maintained at 28oC in shaker-incubator for overnight. And then, this culture was transferred to 140 mL BMMY in a 500 mL filtered baffled flask. To induce AOX1 promoter 1.5 % filtered methanol was added and induction process was continued up to 6 days. The sampling was done at time points; 1, 2, 3, and 6 days after induction. In detail, 500 µl, 10 mL, and 30 mL of each sampling containing the secreted protein were collected in order to SDS-page. RNA extraction and protein extraction respectively. Then, all samples were precipitated at 1500 ×g for 10 min at 4oC. \r\nCell pellets and the supernatants were transferred to falcon 50 mL conical tubes and 1.5 ml tubes separately, freezed quickly in liquid N2, stored in -80oC for subsequent analysis. SDS PAGE was done by both supernatant and cell pellet for protein expression analysis. According to MIC (Minimum Inhibitory Concentration) test results, the cells pellet of 96h after induction was selected and purified using guanidine column (QIA gene kit) for ELISA analysis. Total soluble protein concentration was determined using the Bradford method (Bradford, 1976).\r\nF. Antimicrobial assay\r\nMinimum inhibitory concentration (MIC) method was conducted to determine the rate of bacteria growth inhibition by condensed protein supernatant.MIC is important in diagnostic laboratories to confirm resistance of microorganisms to an antimicrobial agent and also to determine the potency of new antimicrobial agents (Yarizade et al., 2012). Therefore, Gram-positive bacteria, S. aureus was grown overnight and was diluted with LB medium to give final concentrations of 5×105 colony-forming unit (CFU) ml-1. Briefly, 50 µl of recombinant protein extractions were added into 150 µl LB medium inoculated with 1 µl of bacteria in each 96-plate wells and were incubated at 37oC. After 24 h, OD600 was measured. In this study, two controls were used; one containing the protein of non-transgenic yeast and another was normal bacteria culture without any inhibitory agent (positive control).\r\nG. SDS-PAGE analysis of protein Expression\r\nTotal soluble protein concentration was determined using the Bradford method (Bradford, 1976). Then the samples at different time points were analysis using polyacrylamide gel analysis. Briefly, 40 µl of the induced supernatants were applied for SDS-PAGE. The LF protein size was 80 kDa, so 12 % polyacrylamide gel with 5% stacking gel was used. \r\nH. ELISA\r\nAccording to MIC results, the cell pellets of 96h after induction was selected to protein purification using guanidine column (QIA gene kit)\r\nThen, ELISA was performed with KCL 0.2 g/L،Na2HPO4 1.44 g/L،KH2PO4 0.24 g/L،NaCl 8 g/L and Tween-20 0.1% (1 mL). In detail, first the wells of polystyrene 96well plates were coated with 100 mL of extracted protein of transformed yeast and 100 µl of PBS as a control solution and then were incubated at 37oC for 60 min (the extracted proteins on time points 1, 2 and 6 days were used). After stated period of time, ELISA plate washed three times with PBST buffer and PBS buffer, then coated wells were blocked by 200 µl of 1% BSA and was placed at 37oC for 60 min. Washing was repeated as first stage and in the next stage 100 µl anti-histidine was added to each well of the ELISA plate and were incubated at 37 °C for 60 min. Then, washing was repeated. Finally, 100 µl of TMB was added to each ELISA well. The plate were placed in dark for 4 min since a colorful reaction was observed and the solution color was changed to blue. The reaction was stopped by adding sulfuric acid 2.5 M. Finally, absorption was measured at a 630 nm and450 nm by ELISA reader.\r\n \r\n\r\n\r\n Alamdari, Niazi, Yarizade, Moghadam and Aram 475\r\n \r\nI. Statistical analysis\r\nAll tests performed in triplicate and data were analyzed using the Minitab14 software.\r\nRESULT AND DISCUSSION\r\nA. Cloning of LF\r\nIn order to prevent errors in nucleotide sequence of camel LF ORF, the gene amplification was done using PrimeSTAR Pfu DNA polymerase. Then, pPink α-HC vector and PCR product were digested by restriction endonucleases; StuI and KpnI and then were used for ligation reaction. After cloning, Ppink α-HC vector containing LF ORF was named Lac-AC1 (Fig. 1). \r\nColony PCR was done using LacPich F and LacPich R primers (fig. 2). Also extracted plasmid was digested by BamH1. As a result, fragments of digested 1503 bp and 9401 bp support the accuracy of cloning. After sequencing of recombinant LF, it was compared with the data available in the NCBI database. Results showed that the homology was almost 100 %.\r\nB. PichiaPinkTM transformation and PCR screening\r\nColonies formed on adenine free selection medium confirmed integration of the gene of interest in genome of PichiaPinkTMstrain4 (Fig. 3). Some of colonies formed on the selection medium were selected for PCR screening. Extracted genomic DNA and synthesized cDNA were used as template (Fig. 4). The color of colonies shows the relative expression amounts of the protein of interest.\r\nThe pink colonies express very little ADE2 gene product, while the white ones express greater levels of the mentioned gene product, indicating that these white colonies contain more copies of integrated construct. Since colony color shows the expression levels of the gene of interest, implicitly, hence white colonies were selected for greater amounts of LF expression.\r\nC. Antibacterial activity\r\nAntimicrobial effect is one of the numerous biological activities of LF. Previous studies has suggested that iron chelation and the effect of limiting iron absorption are reasons for antimicrobial activity of LF (Zarember et al., 2007). Furthermore, other reports have demonstrated the ability of LF in binding to other macromolecules (protein, DNA) (Baker and Baker, 2005) as well as direct interaction with bacterial and fungal membranes. Our results suggested that recombinant LF expressed in PichiaPinkTM had appropriate antimicrobial activity, as it could inhibit bacteria growth about 70% in different time points in comparison with the control and nontransfromed yeast (Fig. 4). \r\nLF is a member of the transferrin family (Baker and Baker, 2005) that its DNA sequence was isolated from different mammalian species such as human, mouse, cow, horse, camel, and etc. The members of this family sequester free iron, hence, it is the reason for their antimicrobial activities (Zarember et al., 2007).\r\nThe biological properties of LF are mediated by specific receptors on the surface of target cells. These receptors are typical for each cell type and can be found on surface of hepatocytes, macrophages and some bacteria like S. aureus (Adlerova et al., 2008).\r\n Production of recombinant LF in other expression systems such as plant (Sohrabi et al., 2014) insect cells (Nakamura et al., 2001) and yeast (Chen et al., 2009; Wang et al., 2010; Chahardooli et al., 2014) with appropriate antimicrobial activities had been reported.. This study is the first successful report of recombinant LF production in PichiaPinkTM expression system.\r\nD. SDS-PAGE analysis\r\nSDS-PAGE method is always used to determine and screen protein expression. The result of this study showed the successful production and secretion of recombinant LF, but a low concentration of the secreted protein was identified (Fig. 5).\r\n','Elnaz Alamdari, Ali Niazi, Adel Yarizade, Ali Moghadam and Farzaneh Aram (2016). Expression of a Recombinant Therapeutic Protein, Lactoferrin, in PichiaPinkTM: a Powerful Antimicrobial Protein. Biological Forum – An International Journal 8(1): 471-478. '),(4779,'9','Radiation effects on an Energy Generating Enzyme in Chick Testis','Pushpa Thakur','BFIJ 33 PUSHPA THAKUR 1211 Radiation effects on an Energy Generating Enzyme in Chick Testis.pdf','',1,'The present investigation was undertaken to study the radiation induced damages in chick testes. The study conducted on 7 days old chicks for a maximum period of 60 days. Histopathological changes along with radiation induced alterations in the energy generating enzyme such as adenosinetriposphate, succinicdehydrogenase and lactate dehydrogenase profile of the testis have been considered for the study. The result revealed that the testes undergo degenerative changes after radiation. Histological lesions in testicular architecture were more severe. It is expected that the metabolism of the testes will also be disturbed which is evident from biochemical profile of the irradiated tissue','chicks, gamma radiation, testes ','The present investigation was undertaken to study the radiation induced damages in chick testes. The study conducted on 7 days old chicks for a maximum period of 60 days. Histopathological changes along with radiation induced alterations in the energy generating enzyme such as adenosinetriposphate, succinicdehydrogenase and lactate dehydrogenase profile of the testis have been considered for the study. The result revealed that the testes undergo degenerative changes after radiation. Histological lesions in testicular architecture were more severe. It is expected that the metabolism of the testes will also be disturbed which is evident from biochemical profile of the irradiated tissue','Energy generating enzyme such as adenosine triphosphatase succinic and lactate dehydrogenase are affected by irradiation. Adenosine triphosphatase breaks down ATP to meet the immediate energy requirements. Dehydrogenases play a crucial role in supplying energy needed for various metabolic functions in somatic and germ cells. They form a group of enzymes of mitochondrial and cytoplasm origin which facilitate many oxido-reductions responsible for generating ATP. Lactate and succinic dehydrogenases are important oxidoreductases linked to the processes of spermatogenesis and androgenesis these are the key enzymes of tricarboxylic acid cycle. Lactate dehydrogenase is involved in the conversion of lactate pyruvate. Succinic dehydrogenase has been shown to be the histochemical \'marker\' for mitochondria in cells. Cells exhibiting intense succinic dehydrogenase reaction suggest high turnover energy in the cells.\r\n Changes in adenosine triphosphatase after irradiation have been reported an increase in several mammalian systems (Ord and Stocken, 1961). The studies made by Daltan and Hamilton (1964), Pora et al 1970 and James et al (1976) indicate variation in the activity of cytochrome oxidase and adenosine triphosphatase after irradiation. Gupta and Bawa (1971) have reported decrease in adenosine triphosphatase activity in rat testis up to 15 days post irradiation following 720 R partial body -irradiation. Nehru et al (1991) have described initial increase in adenosine triphosphatase activity followed by a significant decrease in the testis of rat in the later post irradiation period. Shah et.al. (1973) have reported significant decrease in succinic dehydrogenase concentration in irradiated rat tissues. \r\nLactate dehydrogenase is a cytoplasmic marker enzyme which is a well known indicator of damages induced by several factors including radiation (Chandra and Kale, 1998, Wahl et.al, 1998). Lactate dehydrogenase is responsible for metabolism and biosynthesis of energetic macromolecules for different essential function (Khan et.al, 2001). Azab et.al, (2003) found that whole body Gamma irradiation of rats with a short dose of 6Gy produces remarkable increase of serum LDH activity1,7.and 14 days post exposure. Said and Hanafy, (2006) showed that rat exposed to1Gy whole body gamma irradiation exhibited increase LDH activity in the serum in 1,7, and 14 days post exposure .Any interference in the activity of LDH enzyme leads to biochemical impairment and lesions of the tissue and cellular function In the present work an attempt has been made to highlight the radiation induced changes in enzyme system associated with energy production in the cells. Histological study has been used to support the biochemical parameters to understand the response of testis to gamma irradiation.\r\nMATERIALS AND METHODS\r\nNewly hatched white leghorn male checks (Gallus domesticus) were procured from Government Hatchery, Sunder Nagar (H.P.) these were maintained in the animal house under optimal hygienic conditions. Seven days old male chicks were divided into two groups the animals of group A served as control whereas, the chicks in group B were exposed to a whole body dose of 5.6 Gy gamma radiations at the dose rate of 0.22 Gy per second. The chicks were scarified by cervical dislocation on days 1,3,5,7,14,28,35 and 60 post irradiation. \r\n \r\n Thakur 218\r\n \r\nTestes were excised from sacrificed animals were fixed in Bouin\'s fluid and processed for histological studies paraffin embedded tissue sections of 5u thickness were cut and stained with Harris hematoxylin and eosin. Biochemical estimation of adenosine triphosphatase was done according to method of Kielly (1969). Method employed for the quantitative determination of succinate dehydrogenase activity was that of Nachlas et al., (1960). The quantitative determination of lactate dehydrogenase activity was done by the hydrazine method of Wotton (1974).\r\nRESULTS AND DISCUSSION\r\nA. Histology\r\nNormal testis. The paired testes of the foul are internal and each is attached by as short mesorchium close to the dorsal body wall at the anterior end of the kidney. The testis is contained within its connective tissue capsule, the tunica albuginea which is very thin and it does not give off septa to divide the testis into separate lobules. In normal chick testes during early stages, from days 1 to 7, testes is covered by a thick outer capsule. Below the capsule are present seminiferous tubule lined with single layer of spermatogonial cells.\r\nSpermatogonia are usually present at the periphery of the tubule. Each samniferous tubule is covered with a thin layer of basement membrane. The interstitial cells are loosely arranged (Fig. 1A). From 14 days onwards the population of the germ cells increase and basement membrane of the tubule become thin.\r\nAt 35 days stage, large number of spermatogonia and a few primary spermatocytes were noticed. Compact arrangement of the tubule and reduced interstitial tissue between the tubule was also observed (Fig. 1D). At 60 day stage the number of primary spermatocytes increases. A gradual increase in the cross sectional dimension of seminiferous tubule is noticed. The interstitial tissue reduces and testicular tissue becomes more compact (Fig. 1F).\r\nChicks subjected to 5.6Gy whole body gamma radiation, results in a series of physiological events. Most easily detectable changes are in testicular size and weight. Histopathological investigation revealed that damage was less marked in the early post irradiation period. The seminiferous tubules appeared shrunken. The tubules of the central region depicted more damage than those of the peripheral region. At 14 days onwards, testis exhibited high degree of damage after irradiation. Infiltration of erythrocytes in the tissue, and reduced cell population in the shrunken tubules was prominent The seminiferous tubules especially the central one, exhibited exfoliation of the germ cells (Fig. 1B,C). Detachment of sertoli cells and spermatogonia from the basal lamina was also observed by Mugunthan et al. (2015) in mice testis after exposure to 2G and 3G radiation. At 28 and 35 days post irradiation there was significant regression of the tubules. Distortion and disorganization of germinal epithelium was noticeable (Fig. E. G). Recovery of the tissue was evident at day 60 post irradiation but population of the germ cells and the diameter of seminiferous tubule and the number of primary spermatocytes per tubule cross section in the irradiated testis were significantly less in comparison to that of the normal testis (Fig. 1G).\r\nBiochemical: Adenosine Triphosphatase (Table 1)\r\nNormal chick:\r\nAn increase in the activity of adenosine triphosphatase was recorded from day 1 (0.654 0.005) to day 3 (0.7300.013) in the unirradiated chick testis. Decline in the value was recorded at day 5 (0.6200.011 to 1.0920.080). The value fell at day 28 (0.5480.005). ATPase exhibited an elevated value at 35 and 60 day stages (1.200 0.016 and 1.731 0.002) respectively.\r\n Irradiated Chick: The adenosine triphosphatase content in the testis of the irradiated chicks decreased from day 1 to 14 as compared to the normal chick testis. A significant decrease was noticed at day 1 (15.4%) and 3 (15.6%). \r\nSuccinate Dehydrogenase (Table 2)\r\nNormal Chick: In normal chick the level of succinate dehydrogenase increases from 1 day stage to 60 day, maximum enzyme activity was observed at 60 day stage (19.016 0.098ug/mg). In the irradiated chicks, testis exhibited increased content of enzyme during early stages. A Significant increase in the enzyme activity was noticed at 3 day (15.6%) and 5 day (57.9%) stages. Decline in the enzyme level was noticed from day 7 to 35 as compared to normal. The decrease in the activity was significant on days 14 (9.2%), 28 (16.6%) and 35(33.7%) post irradiation. At day 60, a significant increase in the enzyme level was recorded (20.4%).\r\nEnzyme activity in the testes decreased following irradiation except at day 28. The decrease indicates that the ATP splitting enzymes are either not synthesized or have been rendered non-functional as a result of irradiation. It may be recalled that no testicular growth takes place during this period. As such, decrease in ATPase activity in chick testes following irradiation indicates the energy requirement metabolism occurring in animals. Mitochondria are the carriers of oxidative enzymes. Nachalas et al (1957), localized SDH histochimcally in testes. Turpenen et al 1968) found the enzyme activity to be more concentrated in the young cell types and sertoli cells. \r\nIn normal chicks, the level of succinic dehydrogensase increase from 1 day stage to 60 day stage is very much in conformity with the ATPase activities recorded. After irradiation, the enzyme activity increased at days 1 and 3 followed by significant fall from days 14 to 35 after exposure. There was a significant increase at day 60 post irradiation the portable explanation for such a response in younger animals could be that they have better capability to recover from the irradiation almost injury. In the present study the LDH activity in the normal chick testis remained almost same from 1 day stage to 35 day stage, increasing at 60 day stage of a value which was 58% higher than observed at 1 day stage. Chicks when exposed to a dose of 5.6 Gy exhibit an increase in lactate dehydrogenase activity at early intervals but from 14 days onwards the activity decreased. Usually a high activity of lactate dehydrogenase in spermatozoa and reproductive tissue ensures that locate is an oxidisabel substrate for the energy production in the tissue (Story and Kayhe, 1975). The decline in adenosine triphosphatase in irradiated testis from day 1 to 14 shows the metabolic needs of the tissue are low during period. A significant increase in SDH activity at 60 day pos 9 irradiation points to the high energy needs of the recouping tissue ionizing gradation is a therapeutic agent in the treatment of pathological conditions particularly cancer. The normal tissues which are intimately associated with turnover or are in the path of the treatment get damaged. To protect the normal tissue from the adverse radiation effects, search is on to find drugs which can potentiate and protect against radiation effects. With the increasing incidences of radiation induced reproductive disorders, there is urgent need to identify a radio protector which helps to protect testes from deleterious effects of radiation and bring about faster recovery of the damaged testicular tissue.\r\n','Pushpa Thakur (2016). Radiation effects on an Energy Generating Enzyme in Chick Testis. Biological Forum – An International Journal 8(2): 217-221.'),(4780,'9','Antifungal Effects of some Plant Essential Oils against Alternaria alternata (Fr.) Keissl. and Aspergillus niger van Tiegh. from Grapes','Bina Bhattarai and Sanjay Kumar Jha ','BFIJ 40 SK JHA 1202 Antifungal Effects of some Plant Essential Oils against Alternaria.pdf','',1,'The essential oil of six plants viz. Murraya koenigii (L.) Spreng. Eucalyptus citriodora Hook. Artemisia indica Willd. Cinnamomum camphora (L.) J. Presl., Cinnamomum tamala (Buch.-Ham.) Nees and Eberm and Lantana camara L. were assessed in vitro for their antifungal activity against Alternaria alternata (Fr.) Keissl. and Aspergillus niger van Tiegh., causing postharvest rots in grapes. The test fungi were isolated from infected grapes. The essential oils were extracted through hydro distillation process using Clevenger’s apparatus. For screening of antifungal activity, treatments at concentration of 20, 40, 80, 160 and 320 µl/ml and controls were set to determine percentage inhibition of mycelial growth of two test fungi using poisoned food technique. All the tested oils exhibited significant antifungal effect (p<0.05) over tested fungi. Among six essential oils, Cinnamomum camphora showed the most effective antifungal activity against Aspergillus niger which inhibited the mycelial growth by 81.58 % and 100 % at 20 and 80 µl/ml oil concentration respectively. Cinnamomum tamala showed the best antifungal effect in controlling Alternaria alternata among all six oils which inhibited the mycelial growth by 93.11 % at 20 µl/ml and by 100 % at 80 µl/ml oil concentrations. With appropriate formulation, these EOs can replace synthetic preservatives used in increasing selflife of grapes.','Antifungal activity, hydro distillation, mycelial growth, Percentage inhibition, Poisoned food technique.','This study concludes that six different EOs extracted from six different plants can be promising in management of post-harvest diseases of grapes especially in controlling two rots fungi namely Aspergillus niger and Alternaria alternata. The oil of Cinnamomum camphora and Cinnamomum tamala showed the most effective antifungal activity against Aspergillus niger and Alternaria alternata respectively. The results suggest their possible use as an alternative or complements to synthetic compounds. Further studies on isolation and characterization of the active (antifungal) compound are needed.','Eurasian grapevine (Vitis vinifera L.) is the most widely cultivated and economically important fruit crop in the world (Mattia et al. 2008). Its global production in the year 2012 was 691 Mql (OIV 2013). Numerous studies have indicated that grape consumption may be beneficial in reducing the plasma concentration of cholesterol and preventing atherosclerosis (Hashemi 2014). They are useful in fighting dyspepsia, hemorrhoids, stones in the urinary tract, bile ducts, activating liver functions, ease digestion, help reduce the cholesterol level of the blood and eliminate uric acid (FAO 2005). \r\nEssential oils are non-water based phytochemicals made up of volatile aromatic compounds (Lawless 2013). Essential oil bearing plants constitute a rich source of bioactive chemicals, which have been reported to have various antifungal properties. These chemicals are often active against a limited number of species, including the specific target species. They are also biodegradable and non-toxic (Adebayo et al. 2013). Naturally occurring biologically active compounds from plants are generally assumed to be more acceptable and less hazardous than synthetic compounds and represent a rich source of potential disease-control agents (Tripathi et al. 2008).\r\nPost-harvest disease account for substantial losses of fruits, vegetables and other plant products during the transit and storage process (Mahmoudi et al. 2012). The primary cause of post-harvest loss in table grapes is grey mould disease or Botrytis cinerea (Pearson & Goheen 1988, Snowdon 1990). Some other important fungal post-harvest diseases of table grapes include Aspergillus rot (Aspergillus niger) which doesn’t grow below 5ºC, Alternaria rot (Alternaria alternata), blue mold rot (Penicillium spp.), Rhizopus rot (Rhizopus oryzae; R. stolonifer), anthracnose (Elsinoeampelina, Glomerella cingulata) and others (Snowdon 1990).\r\nMATERIALS AND METHOD \r\nA. Collection of plant samples and extraction\r\nLeaves of Cinnamomum tamala, Cinnamomum camphora and Murraya koenigii were collected from garden of CDB, TU. Similarly leaves of Eucalyptus citriodora, Artemisia indica and Lantana camara were collected from around TU area, Kirtipur and were air-dried and stored at room temperature in darkness until distillation. \r\n \r\n Bhattarai and Jha 260\r\n \r\nThe air-dried materials were subjected to hydro distillation for 6-8 h using Clevenger’s apparatus. The essential oils were collected, dehydrated using anhydrous sodium sulphate (Na2SO4) and stored at temperature >10ºC until use and analysis.\r\nB. Isolation and identification of test fungi (Aspergillus niger and Alternaria alternata) \r\nSome pieces of fungal colony from infected grapes were transferred aseptically on PDA plates. A week later, the observed fungal colony were identified using standard literature (Ellis 1971, Watanabe 2010).\r\nC. Assessment of fungi toxicity\r\nThe fungi toxicity of the essential oils were assessed by poisoned food technique (Grover & Moore 1962). Oils were diluted into different concentrations of 20, 40, 80, 160 and 320 µl/ml with 60 % Acetone (Rao & Srivastava 1994). At first, 1ml of each concentration of essential oil was poured into sterilized petriplates followed by addition of 9 ml of melted PDA. Each petriplates were then inoculated by a 4 mm diameter of the test fungus. In control sets, Fungicide namely Mancozeb 75 % WP and 60 % Acetone were used instead of essential oil. Observations were recorded on 7th day.\r\nFive replications were maintained and fungi toxicity was measured in terms of percent inhibition of mycelial growth calculated as; Inhibition of MG (%) = [(gc–gt)/ gc] × 100 [Where; gc = mean colony diameter in control sets and gt= mean colony diameter in treatment sets].\r\nD. Statistical analysis\r\nExcel 2013 was used for entering data, drawing charts and required graphs. The data were analysed with the help of ANOVA followed by Post-Hoc; Bonferroni test at (p<0.05) using Software statistical package for social science (SPSS) version 20.\r\nRESULTS AND DISCUSSION\r\nA. Percentage yield of essential oils\r\nAmong six plant samples, Eucalyptus citriodora has the highest yield (3%) followed by Cinnamomum camphora (2%), Cinnamomum tamala (1%), Artemisia indica (0.6%), Murraya koenigii (0.5%) and Lantana camara (0.1%), respectively.\r\nB. Antifungal bioassay of essential oils\r\nThe results shows that all six essential oils has significant antifungal effect (p<0.05) over mycelial growth of both test fungi. Artemisia indica oil has better effects over Alternaria alternata than Aspergillus niger. As, it completely inhibits the mycelial growth of Alternaria alternata at 80 µl/ml concentration (Fig. 1). Meanwhile, camphor oil has better effects over Aspergillus niger than Alternaria alternata because it completely inhibits the mycelial growth of Aspergillus niger (Fig. 1B). Similarly, tejpaat oil exhibited better effects over Alternaria alternata than Aspergillus niger (Fig. 1C).\r\n \r\n(A)\r\n \r\n(B)\r\n \r\n(C)\r\n \r\n(D)\r\n \r\n Bhattarai and Jha 261\r\n \r\n \r\n(E)\r\n \r\n(F)\r\n \r\nFig. 1. (A). Antifungal effect of Artemisia indica against Aspergillus niger and Alternaria alternata (B). Cinnamomum camphora (C). Cinnamomum tamala (D). Eucalyptus citriodora (E). Lantana camara (F). Murraya koenigii. [The mean values sharing same alphabet are not significantly different.“*” indicates the significant difference between the mycelial growth of two fungi at different concentration].\r\n \r\nEucalyptus citriodora oil has greater effects over Aspergillus niger than Alternaria alternata (Fig. 1D). Similarly, Lantana camara oil has better effects over Alternaria alternata than Aspergillus niger. As, it completely inhibits the mycelial growth of Alternaria alternata at 160 µl/ml concentration (Fig. 1E). Murraya koenigii oil has better effects over Aspergillus niger. But, exceptionally at 160 µl/ml concentration oil completely inhibits the mycelial growth of Alternaria alternata (Fig. 1F). Similarly, two way ANOVA results for both the test fungi illustrates that plant species (oil type), concentration of oil and their interaction all have significant effect on mycelial growth of the test fungi (Table 1 and 2).\r\n \r\nTable 1. ANOVA for mycelial growth of Aspergillus niger at different oil concentrations.\r\nSource Sum of square Degree of freedom (df) Mean square F Sig.\r\nPlant(Oil type) 143.222 5 28.644 4.200 0.005\r\nConcentration of oil 1155.513 6 192.586 28.240 0.000\r\nInteraction 204.590 30 6.820 873.915 0.000\r\nTable 2: ANOVA for mycelial growth of Alternaria alternata at different oil concentrations.\r\nSource Sum of square Degree of freedom (df) Mean square F Sig.\r\nPlant(Oil type) 105.550 5 21.110 3.979 0.007\r\nConcentration of oil 1198.935 6 199.823 37.664 0.000\r\nInteraction 159.160 30 5.305 685.613 0.000\r\n \r\nFig. 2. Fungi toxicities of different essential oils at different concentrations against Aspergillus niger.\r\n\r\n Bhattarai and Jha 262\r\n \r\nAmong all six essential oils,Cinnamomum camphora showed the most effective antifungal activity against Aspergillus niger. The presence of camphor as main component (68%) and linalool, the second most important (9%) may be the reason for their effective antifungal activity (Frizzoet al., 2000; Chen et al., 2013). At 20 µl/ml concentration, C. camphora showed the highest inhibition (81.58%), followed by C. tamala (72.2%), Murraya koenigii (66.87%), Lantana camara (47.25%), Artemisia indica (29.35%) and Eucalyptus citriodora (5.7%) respectively. Similarly, at 40 µl/ml concentration, C. camphora showed the highest inhibition (93.17%), followed by C. Tamala (85.21%), Artemisia indica (78.22%), Murraya koenigii (75.2%), Lantana camara (64.51%), and Eucalyptus ciriodora (15.57%) respectively. Meanwhile, at 80 µl/ml oilconcentration, C. camphora and C. tamala 100% inhibition of mycelial growth followed by Artemisia indica (92.58%), Murraya koenigii (84.37%), Lantana camara (83.06%) and Eucalyptus citriodora (62.88%) respectively. At 320 µl/ml oil concentration rest of the oils also showed 100% inhibition of the mycelialcolony (Fig. 2).\r\n \r\n \r\nFig. 3. Fungi toxicities of different essential oils at different concentrations against Alternari aalternata.\r\n \r\n \r\nFig. 4. Antifungal activity of Cinnamomum camphora Fig. 5. Antifungal activity of Cinnamomum tamala\r\n against Aspergillus niger. against Alternaria alternata.\r\n \r\nCinnamomum tamala showed best activity whereas Eucalyptus citriodorashowed least antifungal effect in controlling Alternaria alternata among all six oils (Fig. 3). It contains eugenol, cinnamaldehyde, cinnamyl alcohol, cinnamylacetate and cinnamic acid and many other responsible for the observed antifungal properties (Pandey et al., 2012). At 20µl/ml oil concentration, C. tamala showed highest inhibition (93.11%) followed by Artemisia indica (72.8%), Lantana camara (69.02%), C. camphora (60.91%), Murraya koenigii (33.16%) and Eucalyptus citriodora (10.01%) respectively. C. tamala showed highest inhibition (95.71%) followed by Artemisia indica (87.36%), C. camphora (83.35%), Lantana camara (74.62%), Murraya koenigii (51.19%) and Eucalyptus citriodora (13.19%) at 40 µl/ml oil concentration respectively. Similarly, C. tamala and Artemisia indica showed the highest inhibition (100%) followed by C. camphora (94.35%), Lantana camara (91.43%), Murraya koenigii (53.23%) and Eucalyptus citriodora (28.93%) at 80 µl/ml oil concentration respectively. And, at 160 µl/ml oil concentration, rest of the oils exhibited 100% inhibition of mycelial growth of Alternaria alternata.\r\n \r\n Bhattarai and Jha 263\r\n \r\nThe difference in fungi toxicity at same concentration in different essential oils may be due to different chemical composition of the oils (Singh et al.1983).\r\n','Bina Bhattarai and Sanjay Kumar Jha (2016). Antifungal Effects of some Plant Essential Oils against Alternaria alternata (Fr.) Keissl. and Aspergillus niger van Tiegh. from Grapes. Biological Forum – An International Journal 8(2): 259-263. '),(4781,'9','Evaluation of the Effect of Cytokinine and Auxin Plant Growth\r\nRegulator on Callus Induction and Plant Regeneration on Medicinal\r\nplant Convolvulus arvensis L.','Nasrin Nasr and Hamideh Aali','6 NASRIN NASR AND HAMIDEH AALI 1181.pdf','',1,'The Convolvulus arvensis L plant is a type of Convolvulaceae. Many secondary metabolites\r\nsuch as Saponins, flavonoids and caffeic acid, alkaloids and lipids are found in this plant. Pharmacologic\r\nstudies suggest that the pure extract of Convolvulus arvensis L causes inhibition of growth of cancer cells,\r\ninhibition of growth of blood veins and increasing the performance of immune system in our bodies.\r\nProliferation of this plant through tissue culturing technique and genetic manipulation can facilitate the\r\nincrease of secondary production in the plant. According to medicinal values this plant has, some experiments\r\nwas carried out in order to determine the best condition of formation of callus from micro samples of leaves\r\nand roots and Internodes in various levels of 4-D, 2 zero, 0.2 and 0.4 micro molar and zero Kinetin, 0.2 and\r\n0.8 micro molar alone or in combination with each other by a factorial method in format of a completely\r\nrandom design with 3 repetition and 3 instances in each repetition.\r\nBased on results, we can state that the combination of 2,4-D and kinetin can yield the best callus induction\r\nespecially in micro samples of the root. On the other hand the best callus induction was obtained in the\r\npresence of IBA and Kinetin as well.','Convolvulus arvensis L, Cytokinine, Auxin, callus induction, regeneration','The reaction of micro samples was investigated in vitro\r\nin culturing situation after 20 days passed. In the basic\r\nculturing environment without application of herbal\r\nhormones was used as control, no callus was observed\r\nduring investigation. In the culturing environment using\r\nmicro samples of the root, the most calluses were for\r\n0.2 concentration of 2,4-D and 0.8 of kinetin. Of course\r\nin 0.2 concentration of 2,4-D and 0.2 kinetin, those\r\ncalluses were obtained which were less in comparison\r\nwith the 0.2 concentration of 2,4-D and 0.8 of kinetin.\r\nHigher and less concentrations didn\'t result in callus\r\ninduction in micro sample of the root. Therefore it can\r\nbe said that the best concentration of callus induction\r\nusing micro sample of the root are 0.2 2,4-D and 0.8 of\r\nkinetin.\r\nResult of callus inductions using micro samples of\r\ninternodes demonstrated that in all level of hormones\r\nused, callus inductions weren\'t successful and only in\r\n0.2 concentration of 2,4-D and 0.2 of kinetin happened\r\nwith a low efficiency. In vitro culturing depends on\r\ndifferent factors and different levels of internal\r\nhormones, concentration of external growth regulators\r\nand also contrary effect of these factors are effective of\r\nthe response of micro sample to callus induction\r\n(Torres, 1989). Therefore, using other micro samples of\r\ninternodes and different concentration of hormones\r\nmight be interesting for callus induction.','Convolvulus arvensis L is one of 250 species of\r\nConvlovulaceae (Korendkaly, 2012). Convolvulus\r\narvensis L is a few years aging plant, its stem is long,\r\nclimbing and it wraps around its surrounding trees and\r\nin case there was no such surrounding trees to wrap\r\naround, it grows lied on the ground (Mir Heydar, 1375).\r\nIts leaves are arc and egg like triangle shaped with\r\nsharp points. Its flower is ordered and five green\r\nleaflets and five pink or white interconnected Petals are\r\nfound in each flower and inside it there are five flags\r\nwhich are in the form of decussate with respect to\r\ncorolla pieces. Its Pistil is interconnected two pointed,\r\nits fruit is in the form of a capsule and its seed contains\r\na little albumen (Khosravi Farsani, 1389).\r\nPharmacologic studies carried out suggest that this\r\nplant has a diverse effect on different parts of the body\r\nand can be used for producing various medicines. The\r\npure extract of Convolvulus arvensis L causes\r\ninhibition of growth of tumor cells, inhibition of growth\r\nof blood veins and increasing the performance of body\'s\r\ndefense system (Korendkaly, 2012). Also if used\r\nmoderately it can induce relaxation and has anti\r\nbacterial anti fungal properties and causes relief in\r\nintestinal and uterine pain. The resins existing in its root\r\nis highly diuretic, laxative and purgative (Tilotson,\r\n2001). Injecting the alkaloid extract of Convolvulus\r\narvensis L to mice and cat results in an increase in\r\nblood pressure and increase in blood circulation in\r\nCoronary vessels (Manj et al, 2002). The use of dried\r\nConvolvulus arvensis L and its effect on the\r\nperformance of Secretion of bile from the liver was\r\ntested on white mice. Results of this test demonstrated\r\nthat usage of dried plant can be useful for elimination of\r\nacute hepatitis and liver dysfunctions. The use of\r\nConvolvulus arvensis L with a dose of 0.4-2.8 mg/ml\r\ncauses elimination of duodenal smooth muscle spasm in\r\nrabbits (Manadhar, 2002).\r\nMedicinal plants are considered as one of the most\r\nimportant medicinal resources due to their secondary\r\nmetabolites and they have been used since thousands of\r\nyears ago.\r\nBiological Forum – An International Journal 8(2): 29-33(2016)\r\nNasr and Aali 30\r\nThe world\'s health organization estimated that more\r\nthan 80 percent of people use medicinal plants in a\r\ntraditional manner or a modern manner; moreover\r\nmany of chemical medicines are produced by modeling\r\nafter plant materials (Tripati, 2003).\r\nCulture of medicinal plants doesn\'t seem economic\r\nbecause of low concentration of secondary metabolites\r\nin the plant, limited natural resources, increased\r\ndestruction of forests, meadows, gardens, destruction of\r\ndiverse herbal and animal species, issues concerned\r\nwith domestication and agricultural culturing of this\r\nplants, the low speed of producing secondary\r\nmetabolites and long time required for producing, and it\r\nseems necessary for rapid and mass production of the\r\nsecondary metabolites and medicinal materials to\r\noptimally use herbal tissue culturing methods (Habibi\r\nKhaniani et al, 1384). The biologic science offers an\r\nopportunity through cell, tissue or organ culturing in\r\nvitro to obtain the desired combination. Increasingly\r\napplication of cell and herbal organ culturing resulted in\r\nproducing a large scale of plant metabolites based on\r\nthis method (Ramach and ravishankar, 2002).\r\nTorrey (1958) carried out in vitro studies on formation\r\nof root and Seedling from roots separated from\r\nConvolvulus arvensis L. among all growth factors\r\ninvestigated by adding to food environment, merely\r\nkinetin results in producing organs from root pieces of\r\nConvolvulus arvensis L. It is produced in the presence\r\nof 0.1 mg/l of kinetin and in presence of numerous\r\nprimordial in the chopped off end of the root but in\r\ndarkness, stimulation of kinetin was less. According to\r\nTorrey, apparently kinetin induces the beginning of\r\ngermination in the cultured root pieces of Convolvulus\r\narvensis L and increases this effect. Elizabeth D. Earle\r\nand John G. Torrey also during some experiments\r\ndetermined that presence of Auxin (2,4-d) is necessary\r\nfor inducing growth of callus but there is no necessity\r\nfor presence of kinetin. No wide research has been\r\ncarried out yet about culturing tissues of Convolvulus\r\narvensis L, however it seems we can increase the\r\namplification factor by tissue culturing far more than\r\nwhat occurs in nature. (Maleki Nasab and Kazemi\r\nTabar, 1394). In this study, we investigated the\r\npossibility of producing callus and regeneration of the\r\nConvolvulus arvensis L plant in vitro from different\r\nparts of the plant and in various concentrations.\r\nMATERIALS AND METHODS\r\nCallus Inducing experiments were carried out in form\r\nof a completely random design with three repetitions\r\nand three samples were carried out in each repetition in\r\norder to study and compare the callus induction in\r\nmicro samples of leaves, root and internodes of the\r\nConvolvulus arvensis L plant under different levels of\r\n2,4-D (zero, 0.2, 0.4 mg/l) and kinetin (zero, 0.2, 0.8\r\nmg/l). The second experiment was carried out following\r\nthe first one such that calluses with the best hormone\r\ncombinations which caused formation of the most\r\ncalluses were used for evaluation. An experiment on the\r\nbasis of a completely random form with three\r\nrepetitions was carried out for indirect regeneration (by\r\ncallus).\r\nVarious combinations of growth regulators were as\r\nfollows: kinetin in level one and 0.5 mg/l, 0.8 mg/l of\r\nkinetin together with 0.2 mg/l of 2,4-D, 0.5 mg/l of\r\nIBA, 0.5 mg of IBA together with one mg/l of BAP, 0.2\r\nmg/l of IBA together with 0.4 mg/l of kinetin, 0.5 mg of\r\nIBA together with one mg/l of kinetin and 0.5 mg/l of\r\nIBA together with 1.5 mg/l of kinetin were used as\r\ncontrol from a hormone free culturing environment.\r\nThe herbal materials used in this study were collected\r\nfrom fields of agriculture Sciences University and\r\nnatural resources of Sari. To disinfect the micro sample\r\nof Convolvulus arvensis L, first different parts of the\r\nplant were washed with water and then were placed in a\r\ndistilled water solution and a few droplets of\r\ndishwashing liquid for 20 minutes and then were rinsed\r\nwith distilled water. And then in the culturing room and\r\nunder a hood for the rest of disinfection, samples were\r\nplaced for 2-3 minutes in benomyl solution and were\r\nshaken. After that we shake them in 5 %hypochlorite\r\nsodium solution with a few droplets of phenytoin for 2-\r\n3 minutes and then disinfect them with 70 percent\r\nalcohol for 20 seconds and finally wash them three\r\ntimes with sterile distilled water.\r\nCulturing environment and dishes from autoclave\r\ndevise along with culturing environment were used for\r\ndisinfection. The rest of required tools such as Clamps,\r\nscalpel and forceps normally were disinfected by being\r\nplaced in 96 percent ethanol and heating and cooling\r\nafter the autoclave process while working and while\r\nusing. Before the job began, the surface of the device\r\nwas disinfected using 70 percent alcohol and then for\r\ndisinfection of its surface and internal space of device a\r\nUV lamp was used to ensure disinfection of internal\r\nspace of the device. It should be noted that all the\r\nrequired tools when working were already disinfected\r\nby alcohol and moved to inside of the device. Also\r\nhand were completely cleaned and disinfected with\r\nalcohol before the job began so that no pollution\r\ninfiltrates inside of the device. Fluorescent lamps and\r\nventilation devices were lit until the completion of the\r\nwork.\r\nNasr and Aali 31\r\nA basic MS culturing environment was used (Murashik\r\nvaskoog, 1962). In each dish of culturing, three micro\r\nsamples were placed in the culturing environment and\r\nwere kept in the growth room with a 25±2 centigrade\r\ntemperature and in darkness. After about 20 days, rather\r\nhuge culluses were observed. Culturing environments\r\nwere changed in order to produce root, stem and leaves\r\nand samples were placed in the light.','Nasrin Nasr and Hamideh Aali (2016). Evaluation of the Effect of Cytokinine and Auxin Plant Growth Regulator on Callus Induction and Plant Regeneration on Medicinal plant Convolvulus arvensis L.Biological Forum – An International Journal 8(2): 29-33. '),(4782,'9','Biology of Coranus fuscipennis Reuter (Heteroptera: Reduviidae) on\r\ntwo preys species, Corcyra cephalonica (Stainton) (Lepidoptera:\r\nPyralidae) and Ostrinia furnacalis (Guenee) (Lepidoptera: Crambidae)\r\nin the laboratory','Truong Xuan Lam','BFIJ 41 TRUONG XUAN LAM 1228 Biology of Coranus fuscipennis Reuter Heteroptera.pdf','',1,'The knowledge on the bioecology of any predator is essential to explore its biocontrol potential.\r\nIn laboratory conditions (Temperature: 30°C; Humidity: 75%), the assassin bug Coranus fuscipennis Reuter\r\n(Heteroptera: Reduviidae) were studied on two types of prey species (larvae of rice meal moth, Corcyra\r\ncephalonica (Stainton) (Lepidoptera: Pyralidae) and the Asian Corn Borer, Ostrinia furnacalis (Guenee)\r\n(Lepidoptera: Crambidae). The development stage of egg was 6.04 ± 0.52 days when fed with C. cephalonica\r\nand 5.05 ± 0.21 days when fed with O. furnacalis. The development stage of I, II, III, IV and V nymphal\r\ninstars (male and female) were 5,42 ± 0,25, 5,60 ±0,27, 6,43 ±0,32, 7,63 ±0,37, 8,78 ± 0,46 and 9,25 ±0,90 days\r\nwhen fed with C. cephalonica and 4,21 ± 0,21, 4,56 ± 0,25, 5,51± 0,31, 6,44±0,36, 7,95 ± 0,38 and 8,40 ±0,79\r\ndays when fed with O. furnacalis. The preoviposition period was (6.06 ± 0.35 days) in O. furnacalis fed group\r\nin C. cephalonica fed group (7.23 ± 0.48 days). The number of eggs laid (egg/female) was (80.12 ± 4.29\r\neggs/female) in C. cephalonica fed group, in O. furnacalis fed group (92.80 ± 5.72 eggs/female). The life cycle\r\nwere 47.60 ± 3.73 days and 40.23 ± 2.21 days in C. cephalonica and O. furnacalis fed predators. The\r\nlongevities of male and female adults fed with C. cephalonica were shorter (33.15 ± 3.11 days, 70.64± 3.34\r\ndays) than those fed with O. furnacalis (63.07 ± 5.28 days, 95.67 ± 8.74 days).','Biology, assassin bug, Coranus fuscipennis, rice meal moth, Corcyra cephalonica, Asian Corn Borer,\r\nOstrinia furnacalis.','In the laboratory under optimal condition (temperature\r\n30±2ºC; humidity 75±5%; photoperiod 12±1h), C.\r\nfuscipennis reared on O. furnacalis developed faster\r\nand had longer survival, higher hatchability, lower\r\nnymphal mortality, male biased sex ratio and longer\r\nadult longevity than in C. cephalonica fed group. It\r\nsuggests that, in mass rearing of C. fuscipennis for\r\nintegrated pest management programmes considerable\r\nattention should be given to select the appropriate prey\r\nspecies and O. furnacalis could be preferred over C.\r\ncephalonica','The species of the assassin bugs of family Reduviidae\r\nunder Order Heteroptera (Insecta: Rhynchota) is not\r\nonly one of the most abundant groups but also showing\r\nsignificant economics and high scientific value. In the\r\nworld, the family Reduviidae is documented with\r\napproximately 7000 species that come from 29\r\nsubfamilies (Weirauch, 2008). They are present in all\r\necosystems and even the near human. Many species\r\nplay an important role in the food chain of animals and\r\nplants, as well as the ecological balance. Besides that,\r\nmany species are either known as predators of many\r\ndangerous pests or their indicative role for forest\r\nhabitats. The species Coranus fuscipennis Reuter is a\r\ncommon reduviid predator found in some crops in\r\nagricultural ecosystems such as cotton, soybean, corn\r\nand vegetables in Vietnam. The Coranus fuscipennis is\r\na polyphagous predator and its prey recorded includes\r\non several important pests such as Helicoverpa\r\narmigera, Spodoptera litura, Hedylepta indicata,\r\nAchaea janata and Plutella xylostella, (Ambrose, 1999,\r\n2003). However, the knowledge on the development of\r\nspecies assassin bug Coranus fuscipennis on laboratory,\r\nrearing techniques this species for biocontrol agents\r\nwith suitable prey, as well as mass rearing for use in\r\nintegrated pest management programme are very little\r\nor no conducted in Vietnam.\r\nTherefore, the present study was undertaken to study\r\nthe biology of Coranus fuscipennis on laboratory with\r\npreys are the larvae of rice meal moth, Corcyra\r\ncephalonica (Stainton) and its natural prey in corn, the\r\nAsian Corn Borer, Ostrinia furnacalis to understand the\r\nimpact of preys on the biological characteristics of\r\nassassin bug Coranus fuscipennis.\r\nMATERIALS AND METHODS\r\nThe adults of C. fuscipennis collected from corn field in\r\nEa Kar District, Dak Lak Province and Cu Jut District,\r\nDak Nong Province in Central Highlands of Vietnam\r\nwere reared in the laboratory under optimal condition\r\n(temperature 30±2ºC; humidity 75±5%; photoperiod\r\n12±1h) by larvae of rice meal moth Corcyra\r\ncephalonica from May to October, 2016. The rice meal\r\nmoth C. cephalonica were mass reared in laboratory by\r\nartificial diet (1 kg rice bran mash with 0.5 kg corn\r\nmeal).\r\nBiological Forum – An International Journal 8(2): 264-267(2016)\r\nLam 265\r\nThe Ostrinia furnacalis (Guenee) collected from corn\r\nfield in Ea Kar District, Dak Lak Province and Cu Jut\r\nDistrict, Dak Nong Province. After that, the species O.\r\nfurnacalis were mass reared in laboratory by artificial\r\ndiet. The artificial diet of O. furnacalis will be prepared\r\nas below: Place all the weighed ingredients in the\r\nosterizer or blender and then pour 350 ml of distilled\r\nwater. Add two drops of Vitamin E or until half of\r\nthe amount of the capsule is consumed. Blend all\r\nthe ingredients thoroughly. While blending, boil 350\r\nml of distilled water. When the water is boiling,\r\nplace the shredded gulaman bars until all the\r\nshredded pieces are dissolved. Once dissolved, the\r\nliquefied gulaman is poured onto the osterizer\r\ncontaining the blended ingredients. Then, thoroughly\r\nblend all the ingredients. After mixing for a\r\nminute, the mixture is carefully placed in the rearing\r\npans. Leave the cooked diet as it solidifies. Let the diet\r\ncool for several minutes before covering the container\r\nwith the lid. Insert a piece of tissue paper on the lid\r\nfor absorbing moisture from the artificial diet.\r\nThe eggs of C. fuscipennis laid in the laboratory were\r\nallowed to hatch separately in plastic containers\r\n(D=10,Æ= 10) with wet cotton swabs for maintaining\r\noptimum humidity. The cotton swabs were changed\r\nperiodically in order to prevent fungal attack. The\r\nmales and females are paired in plastic containers\r\n(5×5.5cm). Mated females were maintained\r\nindividually in order to record the number of batches of\r\neggs and number of eggs in each batch for each\r\npredator. Each batch of eggs was allowed to hatch in\r\nindividual plastic containers (5×5.5cm). The nymphs\r\nhatched from egg were reared in plastic containers and\r\nreared as two sets of prey (C. cephalonica larva and O.\r\nfurnacalis) separately in the laboratory under optimal\r\ncondition (temperature 30±2ºC; humidity 75±5%;\r\nphotoperiod 12±1h). The biological characteristics of\r\nassassin bug C. fuscipennis such as preoviposition\r\nperiod, fecundity, hatchability, development stage of\r\negg, development stage of I, II, III, IV and V nymphal\r\ninstars, life cycle, nymphal mortality and longevity of\r\nthe predators were observed and compared.\r\nRESULTS AND DISCUSSION\r\nIn the laboratory under optimal condition (temperature\r\n30±2ºC; humidity 75±5%; photoperiod 12±1h), the\r\nbiological parameters of egg and nymph species C.\r\nfuscipennis observed for the test individuals reared on\r\ntwo types of prey, C. cephalonica and O. furnacalis are\r\ngiven in Table 1. The development stage of egg was\r\nsignificantly (p< 0.05) shorter (5.05 ± 0.21 days) in O.\r\nfurnacalis fed group than in C. cephalonica fed group\r\n(6.04 ± 0.52 days). The development stage minimum of\r\negg and maximum of egg were significantly (p< 0.05)\r\nlonger in O. furnacalis fed group (3 and 9 days) than in\r\nC. cephalonica fed group (4 and 8 days). The\r\nHatchability of egg was significantly higher (87.31 ±\r\n6.55 %) in O. furnacalis fed group compared to that of\r\nC. cephalonica fed group (76.68 ± 4.13%). George et\r\nal. (1998) reported higher fecundity in other reduviids\r\nfed on their preferred prey.\r\nTable 1: The biological parameters of assassin bug C. fuscipennis reared on two types of prey Corcyra\r\ncephalonica and Ostrinia furnacalis.\r\n(Temperature 30 ±2ºC; Humidity 75 ±5%; Photoperiod 12 ±1h)\r\nThe biological parameters Corcyra cephalonica Ostrinia furnacalis\r\nDevelopment stage of egg (day) (n= 147)\r\nMin-Max 4 - 8 3 - 9\r\nAverage 6,04 ± 0,52 a 5,05 ± 0,21 b\r\nHatchability of egg (%) (n= 135)\r\nMin-Max 63,09 - 86,49 58,33 - 90,33\r\nAverage 76,68 ± 4,13 a 87,31 ± 6,55b\r\nDevelopment stage of nymph (day) (n=35)\r\nI-instar 5,42 ±0,25 a 4,21 ±0,21 b\r\nII-instar 5,60 ±0,27 a 4,56 ±0,25 b\r\nIII-instar 6,43 ±0,32 a 5,51 ±0,31 b\r\nIV-instar 7,63 ±0,37 a 6,44 ±0,36 b\r\nV-instar (male) 8,78 ±0,46 a 7,95 ±0,38 b\r\nV-instar (female) 9,25 ±0,90 a 8,40 ±0,79 b\r\nNymphal mortality (%)(n=35)\r\nI-instar 22.86 14.29\r\nII-instar 22.86 14.29\r\nIII-instar 17.14 11.43\r\nIV-instar 14.29 8.57\r\nV-instar 11.43 5.71\r\nNymphs (V-instar) develop into adults (%) 68.25 70.35\r\nNoted : n- The number of eggs (or nymphals); The values followed by the same alphabet in the rows are not significantly\r\ndifferent at P<0.05 (ANOVA test)\r\nLam 266\r\nThe development stage of I-instar, II-instar, III-instar,\r\nIV-instar, V-instar (male) and V-instar (female) of C.\r\nfuscipennis reared on O. furnacalis were significantly\r\n(p<0.05) shorter (4,21 ±0,21, 4,56 ±0,25, 5,51 ±0,31,\r\n6,44 ±0,36, 7,95 ±0,38 and 8,40 ±0,79 days\r\nrespectively) than those reared on C. cephalonica (5,42\r\n±0,25, 5,60 ±0,27, 6,43 ±0,32, 7,63 ±0,37, 8,78 ±0,46\r\nand 9,25 ±0,90 days respectively). The nymphal\r\nmortalities of I-instar, II-instar, III-instar, IV-instar, Vinstar\r\nwere lesser (14.29, 14.29, 11.43, 8.57 and 5.71 %\r\nrespectively) in O. furnacalis fed ones, than those\r\nobserved in C. cephalonica fed nymphal instars (22.86,\r\n22.86, 17.14, 14.29 and 11.43 % respectively). The\r\nmortality was higher in the early stages of nymphal\r\ninstars especially in the first and second nymphal\r\ninstars of both groups. The percentage of nymphs (Vinstar)\r\nsucceeded to develop into adults was 70.35% in\r\nO. furnacalis fed group while it was only 68.25 % in C.\r\ncephalonica fed group.','Truong Xuan Lam (2016). Biology of Coranus fuscipennis Reuter (Heteroptera: Reduviidae) on two preys species, Corcyra cephalonica (Stainton) (Lepidoptera: Pyralidae) and Ostrinia furnacalis (Guenee) (Lepidoptera: Crambidae) in the laboratory. Biological Forum – An International Journal 8(2): 264-267. '),(4783,'115','In-vitro antioxidant activity of the ethyl acetate extract of\r\ngum guggul (Commiphora mukul)','Dharmendra Dubey, Prashant K. and S.K. Jain','6 dubey.pdf','',1,'Free radicals are implicated for more than 80 diseases including Diabetes mellitus, arthritis, cancer,\r\nageing etc. In treatment of theses diseases, antioxidant therapy has gained an utmost importance.\r\nCurrent research is now directed towards finding naturally occurring antioxidant of plant origin. In\r\nIndian system of medicine Commiphora mukul is an important medicinal plant its resinous part has\r\nbeen used in various ailments and as health tonic. To understand the mechanisms of pharmacological\r\nactions, the in vitro antioxidant activity of ethyl acetate extract of Commiphora mukul was\r\ninvestigated for reducing power activity and total antioxidant activity. The ethyl acetate extract C.\r\nmukul exhibited good reducing power activity at higher concentration, which was measured at 700\r\nnm. Gallic acid was used as standard antioxidant. Total antioxidant activity was determined by\r\nthiocyanate method, which was measured at 500 nm. -tocopherol was used as standard, the\r\nstandard, showed 76.38 % inhibition at 500 μg/ml concentration while C.mukul extract showed 51.16\r\n% inhibition at the same concentration. In these testing, a significant correlation existed between\r\nconcentrations of the extract and percentage inhibition of free radicals and reducing power. The\r\nantioxidant property may be related to the antioxidant vitamins, phenolic acids and micronutrients\r\npresent in the extract. These results clearly indicate that Commiphora mukul is effective against free\r\nradical mediated diseases','Commiphora mukul , reducing power activity, thiocyanate method','Free radicals are implicated for more than 80 diseases including Diabetes mellitus, arthritis, cancer,\r\nageing etc. In treatment of theses diseases, antioxidant therapy has gained an utmost importance.\r\nCurrent research is now directed towards finding naturally occurring antioxidant of plant origin. In\r\nIndian system of medicine Commiphora mukul is an important medicinal plant its resinous part has\r\nbeen used in various ailments and as health tonic. To understand the mechanisms of pharmacological\r\nactions, the in vitro antioxidant activity of ethyl acetate extract of Commiphora mukul was\r\ninvestigated for reducing power activity and total antioxidant activity. The ethyl acetate extract C.\r\nmukul exhibited good reducing power activity at higher concentration, which was measured at 700\r\nnm. Gallic acid was used as standard antioxidant. Total antioxidant activity was determined by\r\nthiocyanate method, which was measured at 500 nm. -tocopherol was used as standard, the\r\nstandard, showed 76.38 % inhibition at 500 μg/ml concentration while C.mukul extract showed 51.16\r\n% inhibition at the same concentration. In these testing, a significant correlation existed between\r\nconcentrations of the extract and percentage inhibition of free radicals and reducing power. The\r\nantioxidant property may be related to the antioxidant vitamins, phenolic acids and micronutrients\r\npresent in the extract. These results clearly indicate that Commiphora mukul is effective against free\r\nradical mediated diseases','Antioxidants are radical scavengers, which\r\nprotect the human body against free radicals\r\nthat may cause pathological conditions such as\r\nischemia, anaemia, asthma, arthritis,\r\ninflammation, neuro-degenertion, Parkinson\'s\r\ndiseases, mongolism, ageing process and\r\nperhaps dementias (Polterat, 1997).\r\nFlavonoids and flavones are widely distributed\r\nsecondary metabolites with antioxidant and\r\nantiradical properties (Nakayoma and\r\nYamada, 1995). Plants are potent biochemical\r\nfactories and have been components of\r\nphytomedicine since times immemorial; man\r\nis able to obtain from them a wondrous\r\nassortment of industrial chemicals. The\r\nbeneficial medicinal effects of plant materials\r\ntypically result from the combinations of\r\nsecondary products present in the plant. The\r\nmedicinal actions of plants are unique to\r\nparticular plant species or groups are\r\nconsistent with this concept as the\r\ncombination of secondary products in a\r\nparticular plant is taxonomically distinct.\r\nAntioxidant-based dugs/formulations for the\r\nprevention and treatment of complex diseases\r\nlike atherosclerosis, stroke, diabetes,\r\nAlzheimer\'s disease, and cancer have appeared\r\nduring the last 3 decades (Devasagayam et al\r\n2004). This has attracted a great deal of\r\nresearch interest in natural antioxidants. The\r\nmajority of the active antioxidant compounds\r\nare flavonoids, isoflavones, flavones,\r\nanthocyanins, coumarins, lignans, catechins,\r\nand isocatechins. In addition to the above\r\ncompounds found in natural foods, vitamins C\r\nand E, beta-carotene, and tocopherol are\r\nknown to possess antioxidant potential (Prior,\r\n2003). With this background and abundant\r\nsource of unique active components harbored\r\nin plants, the present study was taken up on\r\nCommiphora mukul belongs to the family\r\nburseraceae. In Indian ethno medicine, this\r\nplant is locally known as guggulu, and whole\r\nBiological Forum – An International Journal, 1(1): 32-35 (2009)\r\nDharmendra Dubey et al. 33\r\nplant have long been used as Ayurvedic\r\nremedy for lowering the blood cholesterol.\r\nMATERIALS AND METHODS\r\nPlant Material\r\nResins of C. mukul were collected from local\r\narea of Jhansi and authenticated by the head of\r\nthe Botany department, B.U. Jhansi. A\r\nvoucher specimen has been preserved at\r\nInstitute of Pharmacy, Bundelkhand\r\nUniversity Jhansi.\r\nPreparation of Extract\r\n100 gm air-dried resins were extracted with\r\n500 ml of ethyl acetate for 5 days .The extract\r\nwas filtered with Whatman no.2 filter paper.\r\nThe filtrate was collected and solvent was\r\nevaporated under reduced pressure using\r\nvacuum evaporator. The extract was subjected\r\nto qualitative chemical tests for steroids,\r\nterpenoids, flavonoids, alkaloid, etc. (Evans,\r\n1997; Harborne, 1998).\r\nAntioxidant activity\r\nReducing power assay:\r\nThe reducing power of C. mukul extract was\r\ndetermined according to the method of Oyaizu\r\n(1986). 1.0 ml of plant extract solution (final\r\nconcentration 50-500 μg/ml) was mixed with\r\n2.5 ml phosphate buffer (0.2 M, pH 6.6) and\r\n2.5 ml potassium ferricyanide [K3Fe(CN6)]\r\n(10g/l), then mixture was incubated at 50\r\ndegree C for 20 minutes. Two and one-half,\r\n2.5 ml of trichloro acetic acid (100g/l) was\r\nadded to the mixture, which was then\r\ncentrifuged at 3000 rpm for 10 min. Finally,\r\n2.5 ml of the supernatant solution was mixed\r\nwith 2.5 ml of distilled water and 0.5 ml FeCl3\r\n(1g/l) and absorbance measured at 700 nm in\r\nUV-Visible Spectrophotometer. As a standard,\r\ngallic acid was used (final concentration 10\r\nmg/ml). Increased absorbance of the reaction\r\nmixture indicates stronger reducing power.\r\nTotal antioxidant activity:\r\nThe antioxidant activity of C.mukul was\r\ndetermined according to the thiocyanate\r\nmethod (Mitsuda et al., 1996). About 10 mg of\r\nextract was dissolved in 10 ml distilled water.\r\nVarious concentrations (50, 100, 250 and 500\r\nμg/ml) of extract were added to linoleic acid\r\nemulsion (2.5 ml, 0.04 M, pH 7.0) and\r\nphosphate buffer (2 ml, 0.04 M, pH 7.0). The\r\nlinoleic acid emulsion was prepared by mixing\r\n0.2804 g of linoleic acid, 0.2804 g of Tween\r\n20 as emulsifier and 50 ml phosphate buffer\r\nand then the mixture was homogenized. The\r\nfinal volume was adjusted to 5ml with\r\npotassium phosphate buffer (0.04 M, pH 7.0).\r\nFurther on the mixed samples were incubated\r\nat 370 C in a glass flask for 60 hours to\r\naccelerate the oxidation process. Each 12\r\nhours, 1 ml of the incubated sample was\r\nremoved and 0.1 ml of FeCl2 (0.02 M) and 0.1\r\nml of ammonium thiocyanate\r\n(30%) were added. The amount of peroxide\r\nwas determined by measuring the absorbance\r\nat 500 nm. Alpha tocopherol was used as the\r\nreference compound. to eliminate the solvent\r\neffect, the control sample, which contains the\r\nsame amount of solvent added into the linoleic\r\nacid emulsion in the test sample and reference\r\ncompound was used. All the data are\r\nexpressed as mean of triplicate determinations.\r\nThe percentage of inhibition of lipid peroxide\r\ngeneration was measured by comparing the\r\nabsorbance values of control and those of test\r\nsamples.\r\n% Inhibition = (Control Absorbance – Test Absorbance) X 100\r\nControl Absorbance\r\nRESULTS AND DISCUSSION\r\nRecently much attention has been focused on\r\nreactive oxygen species and free radicals,\r\nwhich play an important role in the genesis of\r\nvarious diseases such as inflammation,\r\ncataract, liver cirrhosis and\r\nischemia/reperfusion injury (Halliwell, 1994).\r\nHerbal drugs containing radical scavengers are\r\ngaining importance in the prevention and\r\ntreatment of such diseases. Phenolic\r\ncompounds and flavonoids are the major\r\nconstituents in most plants reported to possess\r\nantioxidant and free radical scavenging\r\nactivity. Preliminary phytochemical screening\r\nof ethyl acetate extract gave positive tests for\r\nflavonoids and steroids. The reducing power\r\nof ethyl acetate extract of Commiphora mukul\r\nalong with that of gallic acid at concentrations\r\nbetween 50-500 μg/ml. The reducing power of\r\n34 Biological Forum – An International Journal, 1(1): 32-35 (2009)\r\nthe plant extract was determined by the\r\nmethod of Oyaizu (1986). High absorbance\r\nindicates high reducing power. The reducing\r\npower of the plant extract of C. mukul was\r\nincreased as the amount of extract increases\r\n[Table-1]. However, this reducing power is\r\nlower than that of gallic acid which was used\r\nas standard. Therefore, the absorbance of\r\ngallic acid in a sample was (100 μg/ml) 1.25\r\nwhile at the 500 μg/ml ethyl acetate extract\r\nconcentration it was 1.05. The most\r\ncommonly used method for determining\r\nantioxidant activity is to measure the\r\ninhibitory degree of auto-oxidation of linoleic\r\nacid. The different concentration of extract 50,\r\n100, 250 and 500 μg/ml showed antioxidant\r\nactivities in a dose dependent manner and had\r\n31.99, 38.01, 45.46 and 51.16 % inhibition\r\nrespectively on lipid peroxidation of linoleic\r\nacid system. At the same time -tocopherol at\r\nthe concentration 500 μg/ml showed 76.38 %\r\ninhibition [Table-2]. Against the backdrop of\r\nmany known medicinal properties of this\r\nplant, results from the present work suggest\r\nthat relatively low values of antioxidant and\r\nreducing power may not imply a low\r\nmedicinal value. Emerging trends in\r\nantioxidant research point to the fact that low\r\nlevels of phenolics (and other phytochemicals)\r\nand low value of antioxidant indices in plants\r\ndo not translate to poor medicinal properties.\r\nThe present investigation indicates that though\r\nC.mukul has been described as plant of low\r\neconomic values, this is not worthless. This\r\nstudy suggested that the Commiphora mukul\r\nplant extract possess antioxidant activity,\r\nwhich might be helpful in preventing or\r\nslowing the progress of various oxidative\r\nstress- related diseases. Further investigation\r\non the isolation and identification of\r\nantioxidant component(s) in the plant may\r\nlead to chemical entities with potential for\r\nclinical use.','Dharmendra Dubey, Prashant K. and S.K. Jain (2009)In-vitro antioxidant activity of the ethyl acetate extract of gum guggul (Commiphora mukul). Biological Forum – An International Journal, 1(1): 32-35. '),(4784,'115','Standardization of pomegranate (Punica garanatum L.) propagation\r\nthrough cuttings','Nirmal Sharma, Roshan Anand and Dharminder Kumar','12 nirmal sharma.pdf','',1,'Vegetative propagation of pomegranate (Punica granatum L.) through cutting is the most\r\nconvenient and cheap method of obtaining true to the type, fully developed plants in considerably\r\nlesser time and in order to improve the rooting and reduce the mortality of rooted cuttings, the\r\nuse of growth regulators and time cuttings has been standardized. Maximum rooting, root\r\nnumber and root length is observed with IBA 500 ppm + Borax 1% both in semi hard and hard\r\nwood cuttings. Field survival of the cuttings treated with IBA 500 ppm + Borax 1%, IBA 300\r\nppm + Borax 2% and IBA 5000 ppm remained maximum. Hard wood cuttings respond better to\r\nthe hormonal treatment as compared to semi hard-wood cuttings.','-','Highest rooting percentage is\r\nrecorded with the treatment IBA 500\r\nppm + Borax 1% in semi hard wood\r\nand hard wood cuttings\r\n Boron synergises the effect of IBA\r\n Maximum mean root no. and root\r\nlength was also recorded under the\r\nsame treatment ie IBA 500 ppm +\r\nBorax 1%.\r\n The semi hard wood and hard wood\r\ncuttings of pomegranate cv. Ganesh\r\ntreated with IBA 500 ppm + Boron\r\n1%, IBA 300 ppm + Borax 2% and\r\nIBA 5000 ppm gave 100% survival\r\nof the rooted cuttings under field\r\nconditions.','Pomegranate (Punica granatum L.)\r\nbelonging to family punicaceae, is\r\nassociated with the most ancient civilization\r\nin the Middle East and is native to Persia\r\nand the surrounding area. In India\r\npomegranate is widely grown commercially\r\nin the states of Maharshtra, Gujarat and to\r\nlimited extent in Rajasthan, Uttar Pradesh,\r\nAndhra Pradesh, Karnataka and Tamilnadu.\r\nPlant is deciduous in interior and desert\r\nregions, but in coastal areas may lose only a\r\nportion of its leaves in winter. The tree is\r\nquite resistant to cold when dormant,\r\nwithstanding temperatures down to 10°F.\r\nHowever, it is very sensitive to frost before\r\nit reaches full dormancy in late fall and after\r\nbuds have begun to swell in early spring.\r\nThe best quality pomegranate fruits are\r\nproduced in regions with cool winters and\r\nhot, dry summers. Plants raised from seeds\r\nshow a great variability with respect to tree\r\nvigour, precocity and quality of fruits.\r\nTherefore vegetative propagation is utmost\r\ndesirable to propagate true to type plants.\r\nThough air layering is successful in\r\npomegranate but is expensive, cumbersome\r\nand it adversely affects the growth of the\r\nmother trees (Purohit, 1981). Propagation of\r\npomegranate by cuttings is the most\r\nconvenient and cheap method of obtaining a\r\nfully developed stronger trees in\r\nconsiderably less time. In order to reduce the\r\nhigh mortality of rooted cuttings under field\r\nconditions, it is highly desirable to build a\r\nhealthy and well developed root system for\r\nenabling better field establishment of\r\npomegranate trees through the use of\r\nsuitable plant growth regulators treatment.\r\nMATERIALS AND METHOD\r\nConsidering the constraints associated with\r\nthe multiplication of pomegranate an\r\nexperiment was conducted in the\r\nexperimental farm of the University of\r\nHorticulture and Forestry, Solan on\r\npomegranate cultivar Ganesh to standardise\r\nthe type of cutting and the best hormonal\r\ntreatment so that higher percentage of\r\ncuttings could be transformed in to full\r\ngrown plants. Semi-hardwood cuttings of\r\n0.75 – 1.0 cm diameter having length about\r\n15-20 cm were taken during the second\r\nweek of August. Similarly in case of\r\nhardwood cuttings the cuttings of diameter\r\nabout 1.0 cm having length 15 – 20 cm were\r\ntaken in the month of February when the\r\nplants are dormant. The cuttings so collected\r\nwere subjected to following twelve\r\nfollowing treatments:\r\nTreatments Dip time\r\nIBA 200 ppm (T1) 24 hrs\r\nIBA 300 ppm (T2) 24 hrs\r\nIBA 4000 ppm (T3) Quick dip*\r\nIBA 5000 ppm (T4) Quick dip*\r\nNAA 200 ppm (T5) 12 hrs\r\nNAA 300 ppm (T6) 12 hrs\r\nNAA 1500 ppm (T7) 10 sec\r\nBiological Forum – An International Journal, 1(1): 75-80 (2009)\r\nNirmal Sharma et al. 76\r\nNAA 2000 ppm (T8) Quick dip*\r\nIBA 2000 ppm + NAA 2000 ppm\r\n(T9) Quick dip*\r\nIBA 500 ppm + Borax 1%(T10) 15 min\r\nIBA 300 ppm + Borax 2% (T11) 15 min\r\nControl, Tap water (T12) Quick dip*\r\n* 5 Seconds, No. of treatments: 12\r\nNo. of replications: 4, No. of cuttings per treatment: 20\r\nStatistical design: randomized block\r\ndesign\r\nIn case of semi-hard wood cuttings twenty\r\ncuttings per treatment in the replication of\r\nfour were planted in polythene bags of size\r\n9”×5” containing river bed sand in the\r\nsecond week of August. The cuttings planted\r\npolythene bags were placed under\r\nintermittent mist for 5 seconds at 10 minutes\r\ninterval from 8 AM to 6 PM.\r\nRESULTS AND DISCUSSION\r\nRooting percentage\r\nIn the present investigations, IBA 500\r\nppm+Borax 1% treatment produced\r\nmaximum rooting of 64.99% and 78.33% in\r\nsemi-hard wood and hardwood cuttings\r\nrespectively. The treatment of IBA @ 200\r\nppm, 300 ppm and 5000 ppm given to both\r\ntypes of cuttings resulted at par effect on\r\nroot production with this treatment.\r\nHowever, in semi hard wood cuttings, NAA\r\n200 ppm, IBA 300 ppm + Borax 2% and\r\nIBA 4000 ppm treatments did not differ\r\nsignificantly an aiding root production when\r\ncompared with this treatment. Since IBA\r\n500 ppm + Borax 1% treatment stimulated\r\nroot initiation more effectively as compared\r\nto single hormonal application given to\r\neither type of cuttings. This indicated that\r\nthe addition of Boron to IBA solution had\r\ndirect influence on the movement or action\r\nof auxin which in turn stimulates root\r\ninitiation. This may be due to enhanced\r\nmobilization of O2 rich citric and iso-citric\r\nacids with boron which affects the acid\r\nmetabolism of the cuttings (Weiser and\r\nBlaney, 1967). In addition Nanda (1975)\r\nopined that exogenous auxin application\r\nbreaks starch in to simple sugars and boron\r\nenhances the mobilisation of sugars, which\r\nare needed to a greater extent for the\r\nproduction of new cells and for the increased\r\nrespiratory activity in the regenerating\r\ntissues at the initiation of new root\r\nprimordia. Jain and Parmar (1993) obtained\r\nmaximum rooting with the application of\r\n1000 ppm IBA + 50 ppm Boron in\r\nPomegranate. Singh (1994) also found\r\ncomparatively good rooting in pomegranate\r\ncuttings cv. Jalore Seedless with the\r\napplication of IBA 250 ppm + Borax 1%\r\ntreatment. However, the single application\r\nof IBA at lower as well as at higher\r\nconcentration did produce roots statistically\r\nequal to that of IBA 500 ppm + Borax 1%\r\ntreatment under these studies, but the quality\r\nof roots produced by this treatment was\r\nfound unmatchable when compared to single\r\nIBA application. These observations about\r\nthe effect of IBA on the rooting of\r\npomegranate cuttings are in close\r\nconformity with the findings of Panda and\r\nDas (1990), who recorded 76.1 % in hard\r\nwood cuttings of pomegranate with 5000\r\nppm IBA application alone and Gosh et al\r\n(1988) reported good rooting in both semi\r\nhard wood and hard wood cuttings of\r\npomegranate treated with IBA 5000 ppm. It\r\nis also evident from the results given in table\r\nthat IBA is much more effective to stimulate\r\nrooting in the two sets of cuttings in\r\npomegranate as compared to NAA. The\r\nsuperiority of IBA could be explained on the\r\nanalogy of Pearse (1948) who observed that\r\nIBA being an auxin, generally has distinct\r\nadvantage over NAA as it is slowly\r\ndestroyed by the auxin destroying enzyme\r\nlinked system. Likewise Weaver (1972)\r\nsuggested that, since IBA translocates\r\npoorly, it is retained near the site of\r\napplication and is therefore very effective.\r\nThese findings are in agreement with that\r\nreported by Purohit and Shekharappa (1985)\r\nwho reported that IBA treatment (quick dip)\r\nwere more effective in inducing hardwood\r\ncuttings of pomegranate. Similarly Sharma\r\nand Sharma (1987) who studied the rooting\r\npattern of hardwood and semi hardwood\r\ncuttings of wild pomegranate, observed\r\nhigher rooting with IBA treatment (quick\r\ndip) while Ghosh et. al. (1988) obtained\r\nmore rooting with IBA treatment than NAA\r\nin semi-hard wood and hard wood cuttings\r\nof pomegranate. Likewise, Sharma and\r\nKumar (1988) compared the effect of IBA,\r\nNAA and IAA on rooting of pomegranate\r\nunder controlled conditions and recorded the\r\nhighest rooting percentage with the\r\ntreatment of IBA and NAA. The present\r\nfindings also get support from the work of\r\n77 Biological Forum – An International Journal, 1(1): 75-80 (2009)\r\nSingh (1994) who obtained the best rooting\r\nwith IBA treatment in pomegranate cuttings,\r\nwhile Arumugam et. al. (1996) got the best\r\nrooting in softwood, semi-soft wood and\r\nhardwood cuttings of pomegranate with IBA\r\n(quick dip) treatments.\r\nThe maturity of cutting play a vital\r\nrole in initiating and producing better\r\nrooting in pomegranate cuttings as is evident\r\nfrom the data given where hard wood\r\ncuttings produced significantly higher\r\nrooting as compared to semi hard wood\r\ncuttings. These results are in agreement with\r\nthe findings of Panda and Das (1990) who\r\nreported that the hard wood cuttings\r\npomegranate gave better rooting than semi\r\nhard wood cuttings. The work of Ghosh et.\r\nal. (1980) and Sandhu et. al. (1991) also\r\nshow that hardwood cuttings of pomegranate\r\nproduce better rooting than semi hard wood\r\ncuttings.\r\nMean root number\r\nThe results clearly indicate that the\r\ntreatments of IBA 500 ppm + Borax 1%\r\nproduced the maximum root number of\r\n16.47 and 27.12 in semi-hard wood and\r\nhardwood cuttings of pomegranate\r\nrespectively. This indicated that the\r\nmaximum number of roots obtained with the\r\ncombination of IBA and Boron appears to\r\nenhance the rooting of pomegranate cuttings\r\nthrough a synergistic interaction with IBA.\r\nThe effects of this interaction seems to\r\ninclude increased root initiation as well as\r\nincreased root growth. These observations\r\nare in agreement with the findings of Jain\r\nand Parmar (1993) who obtained greater\r\nnumber of roots in pomegranate cuttings\r\ntreated with IBA 1000 ppm + Boron 50 ppm\r\nand plants in river silt over control\r\ntreatment.\r\nMean root length\r\nThe maximum average root length of 16.57\r\ncm was recorded with the application of IBA\r\n500 ppm + Borax 1% treatment in semi\r\nhardwood cuttings and was found\r\nstatistically at par with IBA 300 ppm, IBA\r\n5000 ppm and IBA 300 ppm + Borax 2%\r\ntreatments. Contrary to this, the minimum\r\nroot length of 6.61 cm was measured under\r\nNAA 300 ppm treatment. However, its\r\neffect on the production of average root\r\nlength per cutting did not differ significantly\r\nfrom the effect exhibited by NAA 1500\r\nppm, NAA 2000 ppm and control. In\r\nhardwood cuttings too the maximum mean\r\nroot length of 18.02 cm was measured with\r\nthe application of IBA 500 ppm + Borax 1%\r\ntreatment and was statistically at par with\r\nthe treatments of IBA @ 300, 5000 ppm and\r\nIBA 3000 ppm + Borax 2% treatment in\r\nsemi hard wood cuttings and IBA 5000 ppm\r\nin hardwood cuttings. The observations are\r\nin close proximity to the findings of Purohit\r\nand Shekharappa (1985) who observed the\r\nhighest root length with 5000 ppm IBA\r\ntreatment in pomegranate cuttings taken\r\nfrom the basal portion. Likewise Panda and\r\nDas (1990) recorded the highest root length\r\nwith the treatment of 5000 ppm IBA in\r\nhardwood cuttings of pomegranate cv.\r\nDholka whereas Bankar and Prasad (1992)\r\nobtained increased root length in\r\npomegranate cuttings treated with IBA 1000\r\nppm. However Dhillon and Sharma (1992)\r\nreported highest root length in pomegranate\r\ncuttings treated with low concentration of\r\nIBA at 100 ppm soaked for 24 hrs. Similarly\r\nSandhu et. al. (1991) also found maximum\r\nroot length in pomegranate cuttings with the\r\napplication of IBA 100 ppm treatment. The\r\nbetter rooting in case of hard wood cuttings\r\nas compared to semi hard wood cuttings are\r\nin agreement with the findings of Sharma\r\nand Sharma (1987). Similarly many\r\nresearchers (Panda and Das, 1990, and\r\nSandhu et. al. 1991) got similar results with\r\npomegranate cuttings.\r\nSurvival percentage\r\nCent per cent survival percentage of the\r\nrooted cuttings under field plantation was\r\nfound when both semi hard wood cuttings of\r\npomegranate were treated with IBA 500\r\nppm + Borax 1%, IBA 300 ppm + Borax 2%\r\nand IBA 5000 ppm as compared to rest of\r\nthe treatments. The possible explanation to\r\nthis lies in better development of root system\r\nwith good quality root and shoot parameters\r\nenabling the rooted cuttings to make better\r\ngrowth under field conditions after\r\nplantation and thereby accounted the highest\r\nfield survivability. However, the\r\nsurvivability of rooted cuttings of hardwood\r\nand semi-hard wood cuttings was found to\r\nbe non significant, but the plants raised from\r\nhard wood cuttings was found to be non\r\nsignificant, but the plants raised from hard\r\nNirmal Sharma et al. 78\r\nwood cuttings found to render better and\r\nhealthy vegetative growth than the ones\r\nraised from semi hard wood cuttings.','Nirmal Sharma, Roshan Anand and Dharminder Kumar (2009). Standardization of pomegranate (Punica garanatum L.) propagation\r\nthrough cuttings. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 1(1): 75-80. '),(4785,'130','Antioxidant activities of Zizyphus mauritiana Lam. (Rhamnaceae)','Ranjit Singh K. Nimbalkar and Sucheta K. Rajurkar','24_Ranjit.pdf','',1,'In the present study, antioxidant activities of the two varieties of fruits of Zizyphus mauritiana\r\n(Boroi) were investigated. The IC50’s of the ethanolic extracts of Zizyphus mauritiana and Zizyphus mauritiana\r\n(Narikeli) were 72 and 250 μg/ml respectively. Among these two varieties local variety Zizyphus mauritiana (Beri)\r\nshowed higher antioxidant activities. Therefore, local variety of Zizyphus mauritiana found beneficial for human\r\nhealth.','Antioxidant activity, Zizyphus mauritiana, Ethanol extracts, DPPH free radical, IC50','India is a developing country and 27% people are below\r\npoverty line. It is impossible for them to take expensive\r\nantioxidative drugs or to eat the costly fruits like apple,\r\ngrape fruits, orange, litchi, mango, pineapple and so on. In\r\nthe present study, cheap local fruits of India are used that\r\ncan easily be taken by the poor people. The investigation\r\nshowed that the fat free residues of Zizyphus mauritiana\r\nwhose used parts are edible contain considerable amount\r\nof antioxidative compounds because the extracts of these\r\nfruit has remarkable antioxidant activities. So, these fruits\r\ncan be used by the poor people as biological antioxidants.\r\nBut the other variety of Zizyphus mauritiana name Narikeli\r\nshow low level of antioxidant.\r\nNimbalkar and Rajurkar 101\r\nThe investigation showed only the intensity of\r\nantioxidative compounds present in the extracts. But the\r\nstudy gave no concrete indication of the names of the\r\nantioxidative compounds or exact amounts of them. More\r\nwork should be done to characterize individual antioxidative\r\ncompounds of these fruits in order to assign certain fruit(s)\r\nfor using as the cheapest source of antioxidant to the poor\r\npeople of India as well as the world. On the other hand, in\r\nmost food industries, synthetic antioxidants e.g. butylated\r\nhydroxyanisole (BHA), butylated hydroxytoluene (BHT),\r\ntertiary butyl hydroquinone (TBHQ), propyl gallate (PG) etc.\r\nare used in order to prevent the rancidity of processed\r\nfoods. This experiment supports that these fruits can be\r\nused in such industries as natural antioxidants subjected to\r\nproper investigations.','any substance that retards or prevents deterioration,\r\ndamage or destruction by oxidation (Dekkers et al., 1996). It\r\nis a classification of several organic substances, including\r\nvitamins C and E, vitamin A (which is converted from betacarotene),\r\nselenium and a group known as the carotenoids\r\n(Kaczmarski et al., 1999; Dekkers et al., 1996).\r\nA free radical is a compound with one or more unpaired\r\nelectrons in its outer orbital (Jesberger and Richardson 1991).\r\nSuch unpaired electrons make these species very unstable\r\nand therefore quite reactive with other molecules due to the\r\npresence of unpaired electron(s) (Karlsson 1997) and they\r\ntry to pair their electron(s) and generate a more stable\r\ncompound. The most dangerous free radicals are the atomic\r\nand molecular varieties of oxygen which is known as\r\nReactive Oxygen Species (ROS). While ROS are not\r\ntechnically free radicals, they are highly reactive with the\r\nmolecules around them (Sharma and Clark 1998). ROS is a\r\ncollective term, which includes not only the oxygen radicals\r\n(Ö2, and .OH) but also some non-radical derivatives of\r\noxygen, including hydrogen peroxide (H2O2), hypochlorous\r\nacid (HOCl) and ozone (O3) (Sjodin et al., 1990).\r\nThe human body is composed of many different types\r\nof cells. Cells are composed of many different types of\r\nmolecules. Molecules consist of one or more atoms of one\r\nor more elements joined by chemical bonds. Normally, bonds\r\ndon’t split in a way that leaves a molecule with an odd,\r\nunpaired electron (Halliwell, 1989). But when weak bonds\r\nsplit, free radicals are formed (Karlsson 1997). Free radicals\r\nare very unstable and react quickly with other compounds,\r\ntrying to capture the needed electron to gain stability.\r\nGenerally, free radicals attack the nearest stable molecule,\r\n“stealing” its electron. When the “attacked” molecule loses\r\nits electron, it becomes a free radical itself, beginning a chain\r\nreaction and can be “thousand of events long” (Goldfarb\r\n1999). Once the process is started, it can cascade, finally\r\nresulting in the disruption of a living cell (Jesberger and\r\nRichardson 1991).\r\nFree radicals are formed continuously as normal byproducts\r\nof oxygen metabolism during mitochondrial\r\noxidative phosphorylation. Thus the mitochondrion is the\r\nmain source of free radicals (Przedborski and Jackson-\r\nLewwis 1998, Fahn and Cohen 1992).\r\nThe role of free radicals in many disease conditions\r\nhas been well established. Several biochemical reactions in\r\nour body generate reactive oxygen species and these are\r\ncapable of damaging crucial bio-molecules. If they are not\r\neffectively scavenged by cellular constituents, they lead to\r\ndisease conditions (Halliwell, 1994; Halliwell and Gutteridge\r\n1985) e.g. Cerebrovascular Disease, Cancer, Arteriosclerosis,\r\nAtherosclerosis, Heart Disease, Senility, Aging, Behcet’s\r\nDisease, Crohn’s Disease, Cataracts, Sunburn, Ulcers,\r\nOsteoporosis, Rheumatoid Arthritis, Diabetes Mellitus,\r\nEmphysema, Stroke (Sharma and Clark 1998), Rheumatoid\r\nArthritis, Hemorrhagic Shock, Cardiovascular Disorders,\r\nCystic Fibrosis, Neurodegenerative Diseases (e.g.\r\nParkinsonism, Alzheimer’s disease), Gastrointestinal\r\nUlcerogenesis, AIDS and even early Senescence (Halliwell,\r\n1994; Halliwell and Gutteridge). Free radicals also spoil foods\r\nand degrade materials such as rubber, gasoline and\r\nlubricating oils (Dexter et al., 1994). Antioxidants can take\r\nthe form of enzymes in the body, vitamin supplements, or\r\nindustrial additives. They are routinely added to metals, oils,\r\nfoodstuffs, and other materials to prevent free radical\r\ndamage. To neutralize these free radicals antioxidant plays\r\nan important role (Vani et al., 1997).\r\nIn recent years, one of the areas which attracted a great\r\ndeal of attention is the possible therapeutic potential of\r\nantioxidants in controlling degenerative diseases associated\r\nwith marked oxidative damage. Several plant extracts and\r\ndifferent classes of phytochemicals have been found to have\r\nquite prominent antioxidant activity (Larson, 1988; Tripathi\r\n1996; Vani et al., 1997). In the present study, we investigated\r\nthe antioxidant activity of the crude extracts of the two\r\nvarieties of Zizyphus mauritiana.\r\nBiological Forum – An International Journal, 1(1): 12 -17 (2009)\r\nAntioxidant activities of Zizyphus mauritiana Lam. (Rhamnaceae)\r\nRanjit Singh K. Nimbalkar and Sucheta K. Rajurkar*\r\nDepartment of Zoology, Deogiri College, Aurangabad (M.S.) INDIA\r\n*Department of Botany, Deogiri College, Aurangabad (M.S.) INDIA\r\nABSTRACT : In the present study, antioxidant activities of the two varieties of fruits of Zizyphus mauritiana\r\n(Boroi) were investigated. The IC50’s of the ethanolic extracts of Zizyphus mauritiana and Zizyphus mauritiana\r\n(Narikeli) were 72 and 250 μg/ml respectively. Among these two varieties local variety Zizyphus mauritiana (Beri)\r\nshowed higher antioxidant activities. Therefore, local variety of Zizyphus mauritiana found beneficial for human\r\nhealth.\r\nKeywords : Antioxidant activity, Zizyphus mauritiana, Ethanol extracts, DPPH free radical, IC50\r\nForum — An International Journal, 1(2): 98-101(2009) ISSN : 0975-1130\r\nNimbalkar and Rajurkar 99\r\nMATERIALS AND METHODS\r\nMeasurement of Antioxidant Activities\r\nThe antioxidant activity of the ethanol extracts was\r\ndetermined on the basis of their scavenging activity of the\r\nstable 1, 1-diphenyl-2-picryl hydrazyl (DPPH) free radical.\r\nDPPH is a stable free radical containing an odd electron in\r\nits structure and usually utilized for detection of the radical\r\nscavenging activity in chemical analysis. 1ml of each solution\r\nof different concentrations (1-500μg/ml) of the extracts was\r\nadded to 3 ml of 0.004% ethanol DPPH free radical solution.\r\nAfter 30 minutes the absorbance of the preparations were\r\ntaken at 517 nm by a UV spectrophotometer which was\r\ncompared with the corresponding absorbance of standard\r\nascorbic acid concentrations (1-500 μg/ml).The method\r\ndescribed by Hatano et al. (1988) was used to measure the\r\nabsorbance with some modifications. Then the % inhibition\r\nwas calculated by the following equation:\r\n% radical scavenging activity = (absorbance of blankabsorbance\r\nof sample)/(absorbance of blank) x 100\r\nFrom calibration curves, obtained from different\r\nconcentrations of the extracts, the IC50 (Inhibitory\r\nconcentration 50%) was determined. IC50 value denotes the\r\nconcentration of sample required to scavenge 50% of the\r\nDPPH free radicals (Gupta et al., 2003).\r\nProcedure\r\nTable 1 : Showing detailed data on extraction of fruits.\r\n1. At first, 6 test tubes were taken to make aliquots of\r\n6 conc. (1, 5, 10, 50, 100 and 500ìg/ml) with the\r\nsamples.\r\n2. Fruit extracts and ascorbic acid were weighed\r\naccurately and dissolved in ethanol to make the\r\nrequired concentrations by dilution technique. Here\r\nascorbic acid was taken as standard.\r\n3. DPPH was weighed and dissolved in ethanol to make\r\n0.004% (w/v) solution. To dissolve homogeneously\r\nmagnetic stirrer was used.\r\n4. After making the desired concentrations 3ml of\r\n0.004% DPPH solution was applied on each test tube\r\nby pipette.\r\n5. The room temperature was recorded and kept the\r\ntest tubes for 30 mins in light to complete the\r\nreactions.\r\n6. DPPH was also applied on the blank test tubes at\r\nthe same time where only ethanol was taken as\r\nblank.\r\n7. After 30 minutes, the absorbance of each test tube\r\nwas taken by a UV spectrophotometer.\r\n8. IC50’s were measured from % Inhibition vs. Conc.\r\ngraphs.\r\nRESULTS AND DISCUSSION\r\nDPPH is one of the free radicals widely used for testing\r\npreliminary radical scavenging activity of a compound or a\r\nplant extract. In the present study, ethanolic extracts of the\r\ntwo varieties of the fruit of Zizyphus mauritiana (Boroi)\r\nshowed potential free-radical scavenging activity. The\r\nantioxidant activities of the individual compounds, present\r\nin the extracts may depend on structural factors, such as\r\nthe number of phenolic hydroxyl or methoxyl groups, flavone\r\nhydroxyl, keto groups, free carboxylic groups and other\r\nstructural features (Patt et al., 1990).\r\nFrom the graph 1 and 2, it is found that IC50 of the\r\nfruit extract of Zizyphus mauritiana is 72ìg/ml which\r\nindicates the remarkable antioxidant activity of the extract.\r\nThe antioxidant activity is to the presence of phenolic\r\nhydroxyl or methoxyl groups, flavone hydroxyl, keto groups,\r\nfree carboxylic groups and other structural features (Patt et\r\nal., 1990)','Ranjit Singh K. Nimbalkar and Sucheta K. Rajurkar (2009). Antioxidant activities of Zizyphus mauritiana Lam. (Rhamnaceae). Biological Forum – An International Journal, 1(2): 98-101.'),(4786,'128','Potential of Plagiochasma appendiculatum on Inhibition of Certain\r\nEconomically Important Plant Pathogens','Shivom Singh, Kajal Srivastava and Dev Raj Khanna','25 SHIVOM SINGH.pdf','',1,'Present study was carried out to evaluate the antimicrobial properties of Plagiochasma\r\nappendiculatum (liverwort) extract used against selected test fungus and bacteria for antimicrobial assay.\r\nEffect of aqueous and different organic extracts viz. petroleum ether, ethanol, chloroform, acetone, methanol\r\nand aqueous extract of Plagiochasma appendiculatum, at different concentrations (1000, 500, 200 and 40 μg\r\nml-1 and at different time intervals i.e. 24, 48 and 72 hrs) were examined for their bioactivity against certain\r\nimportant fungal species (Rhizoctonia solani, Sclerotium rolfsii, Fusarium oxysporum and Tilletia indica) and\r\nsome important bacterial pathogens (Xanthomonas oryzae pv. oryzae, Salmonella enterica, Pasteurella\r\nmultocida, and Melissococcus plutonius). All organic extracts of P. appendiculatum failed to inhibit growth of\r\nXanthomonas oryzae and S. enterica. Most of the extracts showed maximum activity against the R. solani with\r\nMIC of 2.50 and MFC value of 5.00 in petroleum ether extract. MBC value was found maximum in M.\r\nplutonius with value of 5.00 extracted in petroleum ether.','Plagiochasma appendiculatum, liverwort, antimicrobial properties, Plant Pathogen.','The present investigation clearly indicates that bryophytes are\r\nrich storehouse of unknown botanicals, justifying a more\r\nextensive and critical analysis of bioactivity for this group.\r\nFrom this study, it may be concluded that P. appendiculatum\r\nhave a vast potential as botanical pesticides and can serve as\r\nnew source of fungicide and antibiotics in near future.','All bryophytes contain cocktails of different active\r\ncompounds, mainly terpenoids to protect themselves\r\nagainst infections of fungi and bacteria, with which\r\nthey live in direct contact. These effects of bryoflora\r\nwere thus not developed by chance but are a necessity\r\nfor their survival. The anti-microbial effects of\r\nbryophytes go back on an inhibition of cell division, not\r\nonly of bacteria and fungi but also of mammal cells.\r\nOther effects include anti-feeding effects against\r\nbeetles, slug and snail or fish killing effects. Several\r\ninsect anti-feedents have now been found in diverse\r\nbryophytes making this group of plants a useful source\r\nof insecticides and insect repellant.\r\nMekuria et al. (1999) studied the effect of moss extracts\r\nagainst phytopathogenic fungi and showed that\r\nalcoholic extract of mosss was active against candida\r\nalbicans. Keyhanian et al. (2002) studied the effect of\r\nseveral fungicidal and insecticidal seed treatment to\r\ncontrol rapeseed seedling damaging plants and\r\nobserved that fungicidal and insecticidal compounds\r\nwere active against tested pathogen. Subhisha and\r\nSubramonian (2005) screened the extracts of\r\nPallavicinia leyelli and evaluated that it posses\r\nantifunagal activity. Iwashina (2003) reported that\r\nflavanoid compounds are widely distributed in\r\nbryophytes and posses many biological activities\r\nagainst plants, fungi and other microorganism.\r\nIn particular, liverworts contain pinguisane-type\r\nsesquiterpenoids, sacculatane-type diterpenoids and bis\r\n(bi-benzyl) aromatic compounds which are not found in\r\nhigher plants (Asakawa, 1995; Nagashima et al., 2002).\r\nThey show higher antifungal properties than the\r\nmosses. It is due to the presence of lunularic acid, an\r\naging hormone found in liverworts but not in mosses\r\n(Pryce, 1972). Degree of antibiotic activity in a given\r\nspecies may depend upon the age of the gametophyte,\r\nseason of collection and other such ecological\r\nparameters (Banerjee and Sen, 1979).\r\nPlagiochasma appendiculatum is one of the important\r\nIndian liverwort belongs to the order Marchantiales\r\nunder family Aytoniaceae. Plagiochasma is a thalloid\r\nliverwort represented by 30 species (Bischler, 1978) but\r\nin India only 10 species have been reported.\r\nBiological Forum – An International Journal 2(2): 122-129(2010)\r\nSingh, Srivastava and Khanna 123\r\nPlagiochasma appendiculatum is widely distributed in\r\nwestern, eastern Himalayas, central India and south\r\nIndia and generally grow to an altitude upto 3000-8000\r\nft from sea level. This species in known from the east\r\npart of the Central and South African continent Eritrea,\r\nEthiopia, Kenya, Tanzania to Rhodesia, Zimbabwe and\r\nSouth Africa (Perold, 1999; Wigginton, 2002).\r\nPlagiochasma appendiculatum is significant taxon\r\nwhich possesses antimicrobial property (Banerjee,\r\n2000). In India, it is used by Gaddi tribes in Himachal\r\nPradesh for the treatment of cuts, wounds and burns\r\n(Kumar et al., 2001; Singh et al., 2006).\r\nKeeping this view, present work will provide a\r\ncomparative study of sensitivity of bacteria and fungi\r\nagainst P. appendiculatum which indicates that the\r\nliverworts are rich store house of antibacterial and\r\nantifungal substances. The observations of this work\r\nwill play a key role for biological control of plants\r\npathogens.\r\nMATERIAL AND METHODS\r\nA. Collection of bryophytes\r\nBryophytes were collected from walls, roofs and natural\r\nrocks where nearly no overhanging vegetation or tree\r\ncanopy was present. They were collected only from\r\nover approx. 1.5 m above ground level, to avoid roadwater\r\nsplashes and areas rich with domestic wastes.\r\nThe survey was made in urban, sub-urban and rural\r\nsites of Kumaon hills. For the present study, only\r\nmature plants were collected and brownish or pale\r\nyellow and dried plants were rejected.\r\nB. Identification and Taxonomy\r\nCollection of bryophytes was made during 2009-2010\r\nfrom different parts of Kumaon hills. They were\r\nbrought to the laboratory in plastic bags and identified\r\non the basis of morphological examination and with the\r\nhelp of various available literatures (Chopra, 1975;\r\nSmith, 1978; Haji, 1984; Gangulee, 1969; Saxena et al.,\r\n2008).\r\nC. Preparation of plant extract for antimicrobial\r\nactivity\r\nThe plant material was carefully cleaned from attached\r\nlitter and dead material, under running tap water and\r\nfinally with sterile distilled water, shade-dried and then\r\nfinely powdered (100 g) with the help of a grinder. The\r\npowdered plant material was then Soxhlet extracted\r\nwith 500 ml of different organic solvents in different\r\nsolvents such as petroleum ether, chloroform, acetone,\r\nethanol, methanol. The extracts were filtered through\r\nmuslin cloth and kept at room temperature till complete\r\nevaporation. Different concentrations of crude extract\r\n(40, 200, 500 and 1 000 μg/mL) were prepared and\r\nused for further study.\r\nD. Antimicrobial assay\r\nDisc diffusion assay was used for evaluation of\r\nantimicrobial activity (Basri and Fan, 2005). In assay\r\nfor antibacterial activity, the nutrient agar plates of\r\nbacteria treated with organic extracts (40 μL into each\r\ndisc) of different concentrations were incubated at (37 ±\r\n2°C) for 24 h. Antibacterial activity of the plant extracts\r\nwas determined by measuring the zone of inhibition\r\n(ZI) in mm against all bacteria. The antibiotics as\r\npositive controls (streptomycin and ampicillin) were\r\nused for comparison with the extracts regarding\r\nantibacterial activity; fungicides (Chloramine T for F.\r\noxysporum f. sp. lycopersci, T. indica, S. rolfsii and R.\r\nsolanii) were used as positive control for antifungal\r\nactivity, and respective solvents as negative control. In\r\nassay for antifungal activity, potato dextrose agar was\r\npoured aseptically in the plates and kept for\r\nsolidification at (28 ± 2) °C for 72 h. Four discs, two\r\ntreated with plant extracts and two controls along with\r\nthe test fungus were kept in same Petri plate.\r\nPercentage (%) Inhibition of fungal growth was\r\ncalculated by the following formula:\r\n% Inhibition = Mycelial growth (control) - Mycelial\r\ngrowth (treatment)/Mycelial growth (control) × 100\r\nwhere, mycelial growth was determined by measuring\r\nthe diameter of the fungus both in control and\r\ntreatment.\r\nE. Determination of minimum inhibitory concentration\r\n(MIC) and minimum bactericidal concentration (MBC)\r\nor minimum fungicidal concentration (MFC) of organic\r\nextracts\r\nMicro broth dilution assay was done to determine both\r\ninhibitory and bactericidal/fungicidal concentration of\r\norganic extracts (Janovská et al., 2003). Freshly\r\nprepared nutrient broth for bacteria and potato dextrose\r\nbroth for fungi were used as diluents. Fresh and revived\r\nculture of test microorganisms were diluted 100 folds in\r\nbroth (100 μL of microorganism in 10 mL broth). For\r\ninoculation of culture, CFU was determined and was\r\nfound to be 1 × 106 CFU/mL for bacteria, while it was 1\r\n× 109 CFU/mL for fungi by taking optical density at\r\n620 nm using UV-visible spectrophotometer.\r\nDecreasing concentrations of the plant extract (1000 to\r\n0.98 μg/mL) in two fold dilution series were added to\r\nthe test tubes containing the fresh microorganism\r\ncultures. All tubes with bacterial and fungal organisms\r\nwere incubated at 37°C for 24 h and 28°C for 72 h,\r\nrespectively.\r\nSingh, Srivastava and Khanna 124\r\nVisible turbidity and optical density of cultures were\r\ndetermined at 620 nm by using UV visible\r\nspectrophotometer. The lowest concentration that\r\ninhibited visible growth of tested organisms was\r\nrecorded as MIC, and that caused no visible microbial\r\ngrowth was considered as MBC.\r\nF. Data Analysis\r\nThe statistical evaluation of complete data was done\r\nand all analyses were performed based on three\r\nreplicates. Values were expressed as mean ± SE.\r\nANOVA revealed level of significance at P<0.05\r\namong different microorganisms and different extracts\r\nby using (JMP 5.0, SAS Institute, Cary, NC, USA) to\r\nanalyze the effect of each treatment separately. The\r\ntreatment means were separated using Tukey HSD test.\r\nRESULTS AND DISCUSSION\r\nThe results obtained showed that most of the test\r\nmicroorganisms were sensitive to the organic extracts\r\nof P. appendiculatum in dose dependent manner.\r\nAll organic extracts of P. appendiculatum showed\r\ninhibition at different conc. (1000, 500, 200 and 40 μg\r\nml-1) and at different time intervals i.e. 24, 48 and 72\r\nhrs. Percent inhibition in petroleum ether extract ranged\r\nfrom 10.64 minimum at 72 hrs in 40 μg ml-1 conc. to\r\n28.25 at 24 hrs in 1000 μg ml-1 conc. In addition,\r\nmethanol extract ranged from 8.47 to 23.48 with\r\nminimum at 72 hrs in 40 μg ml-1 conc. and maximum at\r\n24 hrs in 1000 μg ml-1 conc. (Table 1).Out of the five extracts (organic) of P. appndiculatum,\r\nthe maximum percent inhibition was observed at 24 hrs\r\n(33.30) at 1000 μg ml-1 conc. in ethanol extract and\r\nminimum at 72 hrs (8.47) in methanol at 40 μg ml-1\r\nconcentration when used against Fusarium oxysporum\r\n(Table 1). Inaddition, Tilletia indica, organic extracts of\r\nP. appendiculatum, and the maximum percent\r\ninhibition was observed at 24 hrs (28.71) in petroleum\r\nether extract at 1000 μg ml-1 concentration and\r\nminimum at 72 hrs (8.60) in chloroform at 40 μg ml-1\r\nconcentration (Table 2). As compared to standard\r\nantifungal petroleum ether extract shows good activity.\r\nWhereas, the extracts of P. appendiculatum showed the\r\nmaximum percent inhibition at 24 hrs (22.73) at 1000\r\nμg ml-1 concentration and minimum at 72 hrs (5.36) in\r\nmethanol at 40 μg ml-1 concentration against Sclerotium\r\nrolfsii. (Table 3).For Rhizoctonia solani, out of all the organic extracts\r\nof P. appendiculatum, the maximum percent inhibition\r\nwas observed at 72 hrs (17.74) in acetone extract at\r\n1000 μg ml-1 conc. and minimum at 72 hrs (0.65) in\r\nethanol at 40 μg ml-1 concentration (Table 4).\r\nAll the organic extracts of P. appndiculatum showed\r\nstrong and broad spectrum inhibition against F.\r\noxysporum, T. indica, S. rolfsii, R. solanii, M. plutonius\r\nand P. multocida. Earlier reports also suggested good\r\nantimicrobial activity in organic extracts of liverwort.\r\nWolter (1964) studied antifungal activities of 18 species\r\nof bryophytes. Out of which, Diplophyllum albicans,\r\nPlagiothecium denticulatun and Pogonatum aloides\r\nshowed remarkable antifungal activity. Number of\r\nstudies were carried out in past many year. Dubey et al.\r\n(2002) screened acetone extract of Conocephalum\r\nconicum, Marchantia polymorpha and P.\r\nappendiculatum against two fungi (Aspergillus niger\r\nand Candida albicans) and two Gram-negative bacteria\r\n(Escherichia coli and Salmonella typhi) and found that\r\nacetone soluble extract of all the bryophytes showed\r\ninhibitory effect against the pathogens. In the present\r\nstudy only the acetone extract of P. appendiculatum\r\nshowed potent activity against the fungus Rhizoctonia\r\nsolani. Later on, Singh et al., (2006) reported that the\r\nalcoholic and aqueous extract of P. appendiculatum\r\nused ethno medically by Gaddi tribe in Kangra valley\r\nfor treating skin diseases and showed significant\r\nantibacterial and antifungal activity with MIC value of\r\n2.5 μg/disc. Two year later, Bodade et al., (2008) tested\r\nthe antimicrobial activity of P. appendiculatum and\r\nsome other bryophytes and showed that among the\r\ndifferent tested fungi A. niger, Fusarium monili,\r\nRhizoctonia bataticola and Fusarium moniliforme were\r\nmost sensitive to the ethanolic extract of P.\r\nappendiculatum. For Melissococcus plutonius, out of\r\nthe five organic extracts of P. appendiculatum, the\r\nactivity was maximum 15.23 with chloroform extract\r\nand minimum 6.19 with petroleum ether extract (Table\r\n5). On comparing chloroform with ampicillin (positive\r\ncontrol) non significant values were obtained at all\r\nconcentrations.\r\nAll the extracts of P. appendiculatum failed to inhibit\r\ngrowth of Xanthomonas oryzae and S. enterica. In case\r\nof Pasteurella multocida out of the five extracts of P.\r\nappendiculatum, the activity was maximum 15.24 with\r\nchloroform extract and minimum 5.23 in petroleum\r\nether extract (Table 5).\r\nNon significant values were observed in chloroform at\r\nall concentrations over to both the positive controls i.e.\r\nampicillin and streptomycin. In the present finding,\r\nM. plutonius was found to be most sensitive bacteria\r\nwhile F. oxysporum f. sp. lycopersici and T. indica\r\nMitra were most sensitive fungi. This broad spectrum\r\nantimicrobial activity of the liverwort extract is because\r\nof the presence of phinolics, flavonoids, and other\r\nantimicrobial substances.\r\nBodade et al. (2008) indicated that the extracts of\r\ndifferent bryophytes were found to be active against\r\ndifferent microorganisms. Ethanolic, acetone and\r\nchloroform extracts were found to be more effective on\r\nEscherichia coli and Staphylococcus aureus. Among\r\nthe fungi Aspergillus niger was most sensitive to the\r\nethanolic extract of Plagiochasma appendiculatum and\r\nBryum argentium. In the present study, ethanol extract\r\nwas also most effective against the Salmonella enterica;\r\nacetone extract was most effective against the\r\nMelissococcus plutonius and chloroform extract was\r\nmost effective against the Xanthomonas oryzae. The\r\nMBC and MFC values were found to be highest for\r\nacetone extracts than their MIC value (Table 6). This\r\nmay be due to impure form of bioactive compounds. In\r\nsome cases, the MIC and MBC/MFC values were same\r\nwhich may be due to the presence of specific group of\r\ncompounds as also indicated in other studies.\r\nThe MIC values were greater than their respective\r\nMFC/MBC values. This may be due to impure form of\r\nthe bioactive compounds while in some cases these\r\nvalues were equal to their respective MFC/MBC values\r\nwhich may be due to presence of a specific group of\r\ncompounds. Mewari et al., (2008) also found that the\r\nMBC/MFC values were higher in case of methanol\r\nextract than their MIC values. While free flavonoid\r\nextract showed the same MBC/MFC and MIC values.\r\nAn overview of bioactivity data obtained from the\r\npresent investigation indicates higher antifungal activity\r\nof methanol, acetone and chloroform extracts of P.\r\nappediculatum of liverwort than the other extracts. A\r\nperusal of different extracts of organic, from P.\r\nappediculatum with different concentrations (1000,\r\n500, 200 and 40 μg ml-1) and at different time intervals\r\n(24, 48 and 72 hrs) indicated maximum inhibition on\r\nthe growth with ethanol extract of P. appendiculatum at\r\n1000 μg ml-1 concentrations.','Shivom Singh, Kajal Srivastava and Dev Raj Khanna (2010). Potential of Plagiochasma appendiculatum on Inhibition of Certain Economically Important Plant Pathogens. Biological Forum – An International Journal 2(2): 122-129. '),(4787,'129','Checklist of insects associated with Jamun (Syzygium cuminii Skeels)\r\nfrom India','Rajesh Kumar, V.V. Ramamurthy and Gaurav Sharma','1 RAJESH.pdf','',1,'Jamun (Syzygium cuminii Skeels) is an economically important tree in India, which also has\r\nmedicinal properties. The survey of insects associated with Jamun in India was conducted and approximately 300\r\nspecimens belonging to five orders were collected, which comprises of 78 species mainly representing two orders\r\ni.e., Lepidoptera (34 species) and Hemiptera (26 species). The salient details of their locality, feeding behaviour\r\nand pest status have also been provided.','Syzygium cuminii, associated insects, India','Jamun (Syzygium cuminii Skeels) is an economically important tree in India, which also has\r\nmedicinal properties. The survey of insects associated with Jamun in India was conducted and approximately 300\r\nspecimens belonging to five orders were collected, which comprises of 78 species mainly representing two orders\r\ni.e., Lepidoptera (34 species) and Hemiptera (26 species). The salient details of their locality, feeding behaviour\r\nand pest status have also been provided.','Jamun, Syzygium cumini L. (Myrtaceae) is a very\r\ncommon, large evergreen tree of Indian subcontinent. The\r\nsynonyms of S. cumini L. are : Eugenia cumini (L.) Druce,\r\nEugenia jambolana Lam., Myrtus cumini L., Syzygium\r\njambolanum DC. Common names are java plum, black plum,\r\njambul and Indian blackberry. Its distribution range starts\r\nfrom Myanmar and extends up to Afghanistan. It grows\r\nnaturally in tropical as well as in sub-tropical zones. It is\r\ngenerally cultivated in India. It tends to grow an umbrella\r\nlike crown having dense foliage, thus gives pleasant cool\r\nshade during summer. Jamun is used as a carminative,\r\nagainst diarrhea, stomachache, astringent and also utilized\r\nin enlargement of the spleen and as a diuretic. The leaves\r\nhave antibacterial properties and the bark is utilized against\r\ninflammations, while the seeds have antidiabetic properties.\r\nThere are lot of major and minor pests which infest leaves,\r\nflowers, fruits, seeds and barks, but the perusal of literature\r\nreveals that there is no consolidated account available on\r\nthe insects associated with jamun in India except a major\r\ncontribution was made by Butani (1979). In this paper, an\r\nattempt has been made to provide the current status, nature\r\nof damage, pest status, hosts, updated classification of\r\ninsects associated with jamun in India.\r\nMATERIALS AND METHODS\r\nInsects were collected in the field with aspirator,\r\nmanually and aerial sweep net and at night with the help of\r\nlight trap. The insects were killed by using tetrachloro ethane\r\nor ethyl acetate or benzene. These were stretched, pinned,\r\nlabeled, identified, preserved in the wooden collection boxes\r\nand deposited in the National Pusa Collection, Division of\r\nEntomology, Indian Agricultural Research Institute, New\r\nDelhi. The collected / reference specimens preserved in the\r\nNational Pusa Collection were also examined and\r\nincorporated in the checklist.\r\nRESULTS AND DISCUSSION\r\nSurvey-cum-collection study on insects associated with\r\njamun in India were undertaken covering thirteen states/union\r\nterritories namely Chandigarh, Delhi, Haryana, Himachal\r\nPradesh, Jammu and Kashmir, Karnataka, Kerala,\r\nMaharashtra, Punjab, Arunachal Pradesh, Tamil Nadu,\r\nUttarakhand and Uttar Pradesh. The insect’s records on\r\nJamun available in the National Pusa Collection, Division of\r\nEntomology, Indian Agricultural Research Institute, New\r\nDelhi have also been incorporated. Seventy eight insect\r\nspecies have been recorded representing order and their\r\nspecies i.e., Hemiptera (26 species), Coleoptera (8 species),\r\nDiptera (5 species), Lepidoptera (34 species), Thysanoptera\r\n(6 species). Among these, the Lepidoptera (34) shows the\r\nhighest number of species, the Diptera (5) shows that the\r\nleast number of species (Table 1).\r\nThe following sixteen species have been added from\r\nthe records in National Pusa Collection (Insects) i.e.,\r\nHemiptera-5 (Balocha maldanadoi kameswara Rao &\r\nRamakrishnan, Wiloatma bifurcate Webb, Balocha tricolor\r\nDistant, Balocha anufrievi, Rao & Ramakrishnan\r\n(Cicadellidae); Dictyophara pallida Walker (Fulgoridae));\r\nLepidoptera-6 (Hygroplasta spoliatella Walker\r\n(Lecithoceridae); Cania pulligonis Swinhoe (Limacodidae);\r\nPhlegetonia delatrix Guenée, Catephia mosara Swinhoe\r\n(Noctuidae); Bubonoxena ephippias Meyrick, Strepsicrates\r\nrhothia, Meyrick (Tortricidae); Diptera-4 (Bactrocera caudata\r\nFabricius, Bactrocera cucurbitae Coquillett (Tephritidae)\r\nBactrocera diversa (Coquillett), Bactrocera tau (Walker)\r\n(Tephritidae)), Coleoptera-1 (Scymnus scymnus gracilis\r\nMotschulsky (Coccinellidae)). Two species have recorded\r\nas new record from Indian Agricultural Research Institute,\r\nCampus, New Delhi viz., Bruchidius minutissimus\r\nMotschulsky (Coleoptera : Bruchidae) and Noctuides sp.\r\n(Lepidoptera : Pyralidae). Photographs of Carea subtilis\r\nWalker (Nolidae) (Figs. 1,2), Noctuides sp. (Figs. 3,4) and\r\nBruchidius minutissimus Motschulsky (Bruchidae) (Fig. 5).','Rajesh Kumar, V.V. Ramamurthy and Gaurav Sharma (2010).Checklist of insects associated with Jamun (Syzygium cuminii Skeels) from India. Biological Forum — An International Journal, 2(1): 1-5. '),(4788,'129','Effective organogenesis from different explants of Bacopa monniera\r\nL.(Wettst.)-An important medicinal plant','Kavindra Nath Tiwari and Jayanti Singh','6 kn tiwari final.pdf','',1,'Bacopa monniera commonly known in India as ‘Brahmi’, it is an important ancient ayurvedic\r\nmedicinal plant. In the traditional system of medicine Brahmi is used as a nervine tonic. It is also used to treat\r\nasthma, epilepsy, enlargement of spleen, rheumatism. It possesses anti-inflammatory, analgesic and antipyretic\r\nactivity. It contains several alkaloids e.g., nicotine, brahmine, herpestine and saponins such as bacosides A,B,C\r\nand D. Propagation of B. monniera through seeds is slow due to short viability and frequent seedling death. Its\r\nvegetative propagation is slow due to poor performance of propagules. Therefore, development of a rapid clonal\r\nmultiplication of this medicinally important herb has become imperative in order to reduce the pressure on\r\nnatural populations and constant supply of plant materials for pharmaceutical industries. The morphogenic\r\npotential of node, internode and leaf explants was investigated to develop reliable protocol for shoot regeneration.\r\nA range of cytokinins tested (6-benzylaminio purinre, BAP; kinetin, KIN; thidiazuron, TDZ; and 2-isopenteny\r\nadenine,2-iP) for multiple shoot induction. Of the four cytokinins tested TDZ(6.8μM) and BAP(8.9μM) proved\r\nsuperior to other treatments. A mass in vitro propagation system devoid of growth regulators has been developed.\r\nMS medium supplemented with an antibiotic (trimethoprim) or a fungicide (bavistin) supports direct shoot bud\r\ninduction on internode and leaf explants. Bavistin showed a marked cytokinin like activity thus optimum\r\nadventitious shoot buds induction occurred on MS medium supplemented with 1569.14μM bavistin. MS medium\r\nsupplemented with 0.44μM BAP and 1.14μM IAA found most suitable for shoot elongation. In vitro derived shoots\r\nexhibited better rooting response on MS medium containing 4.9μM IBA. Regenerated rooted plantlets of B.\r\nmonniera were successfully acclimatized in soilrite. The in vitro raised plants were grown normally in the field\r\nwithout showing any morphological variation.','Brahmi, Bacopa monniera, Shoot regeneration','Bacopa monniera commonly known in India as ‘Brahmi’, it is an important ancient ayurvedic\r\nmedicinal plant. In the traditional system of medicine Brahmi is used as a nervine tonic. It is also used to treat\r\nasthma, epilepsy, enlargement of spleen, rheumatism. It possesses anti-inflammatory, analgesic and antipyretic\r\nactivity. It contains several alkaloids e.g., nicotine, brahmine, herpestine and saponins such as bacosides A,B,C\r\nand D. Propagation of B. monniera through seeds is slow due to short viability and frequent seedling death. Its\r\nvegetative propagation is slow due to poor performance of propagules. Therefore, development of a rapid clonal\r\nmultiplication of this medicinally important herb has become imperative in order to reduce the pressure on\r\nnatural populations and constant supply of plant materials for pharmaceutical industries. The morphogenic\r\npotential of node, internode and leaf explants was investigated to develop reliable protocol for shoot regeneration.\r\nA range of cytokinins tested (6-benzylaminio purinre, BAP; kinetin, KIN; thidiazuron, TDZ; and 2-isopenteny\r\nadenine,2-iP) for multiple shoot induction. Of the four cytokinins tested TDZ(6.8μM) and BAP(8.9μM) proved\r\nsuperior to other treatments. A mass in vitro propagation system devoid of growth regulators has been developed.\r\nMS medium supplemented with an antibiotic (trimethoprim) or a fungicide (bavistin) supports direct shoot bud\r\ninduction on internode and leaf explants. Bavistin showed a marked cytokinin like activity thus optimum\r\nadventitious shoot buds induction occurred on MS medium supplemented with 1569.14μM bavistin. MS medium\r\nsupplemented with 0.44μM BAP and 1.14μM IAA found most suitable for shoot elongation. In vitro derived shoots\r\nexhibited better rooting response on MS medium containing 4.9μM IBA. Regenerated rooted plantlets of B.\r\nmonniera were successfully acclimatized in soilrite. The in vitro raised plants were grown normally in the field\r\nwithout showing any morphological variation.','Bacopa monniera (L.) wettst., commonly knowm as\r\n‘Brahmi’, is an important ancient medicinal plant. It is belong\r\nto family Scrophulariaceae. It is a renowned medicinal plant\r\nwith legendasy reputation as amemory vitalizer (Anonymous,\r\n1998). In the traditional system of Indian medicine\r\n(Ayurveda), ‘Brahmi’ is classified as medhya rasayan, i.e., a\r\ndrug that is supposed to counteract the effect of mental\r\nstress and improve intelligence and memory function. It is\r\nused to treat asthma, insanity, epilepsy, enlarge ment of the\r\nspleen, rheumatism, leprosy and eczema (Singh et. al., 1979).\r\nIt possess anti-inflamatory, analgesic, antipyretic and diuretic\r\nactivity (Vohora et. al., 1997; Stough et. al., 2001). Bacopa\r\nmonniera was placed in a priority list of the most important\r\nIndian medicinal plants evaluated on the basis of medicinal\r\nimportance, commercial value and potential for further\r\nresearch and development (Karke and Williams, 1999). The\r\nmedicinal properties of B.monniera have been attributed to\r\nthe presence of different types of saponins, e.g., bacosides\r\nA, B, C and D (Rastogi et. al., 1994).\r\nThe requirement of brahmi is met solely from the\r\nnatural populations, leading to their gradual depletion. Seed\r\nof B.monniera are poor propagule due to their short\r\nviability and frequent seedling death, which makes it\r\ndifficult to raise plants from seeds. Vegetative propagation\r\nis also slow (Shah, 1965). It is now listed as a threatened\r\nspecies by International Union for Conservation of Nature\r\nand Natural Resources (Pandey et. al., 1993). Therefore,\r\ndevelopment of a rapid clonal multiplication protocol of\r\nthis medicinally important herb has become imperative in\r\norder to reduce the existing pressure on natural populations\r\nand constant supply of plant material for pharmaceutical\r\nindustry. In previous study shoots induction from different\r\nexplant of B.monniera (Thakur and Ganpathy, 1978; Tiwari\r\net. al., 1998; Shrivastava and Rajani, 1999) were reported.\r\nIn present study different cytokinins evaluated for its\r\nmultiple shoot induction so that a suitable concentration\r\nof cytokinin recommended for high yield of biomass and\r\ncontinuous propagation of this medicinal plant. In present\r\nstudy an antibiotic-trimethoprim (TMP) and fungicide-\r\nEffective organogenesis from different explants of Bacopa monniera\r\nL.(Wettst.)-An important medicinal plant\r\nKavindra Nath Tiwari and Jayanti Singh\r\nDepartment of Botany, Mahila Mahavidyalaya, Banaras Hindu University, Varanasi (UP) INDIA\r\nABSTRACT : Bacopa monniera commonly known in India as ‘Brahmi’, it is an important ancient ayurvedic\r\nmedicinal plant. In the traditional system of medicine Brahmi is used as a nervine tonic. It is also used to treat\r\nasthma, epilepsy, enlargement of spleen, rheumatism. It possesses anti-inflammatory, analgesic and antipyretic\r\nactivity. It contains several alkaloids e.g., nicotine, brahmine, herpestine and saponins such as bacosides A,B,C\r\nand D. Propagation of B. monniera through seeds is slow due to short viability and frequent seedling death. Its\r\nvegetative propagation is slow due to poor performance of propagules. Therefore, development of a rapid clonal\r\nmultiplication of this medicinally important herb has become imperative in order to reduce the pressure on\r\nnatural populations and constant supply of plant materials for pharmaceutical industries. The morphogenic\r\npotential of node, internode and leaf explants was investigated to develop reliable protocol for shoot regeneration.\r\nA range of cytokinins tested (6-benzylaminio purinre, BAP; kinetin, KIN; thidiazuron, TDZ; and 2-isopenteny\r\nadenine,2-iP) for multiple shoot induction. Of the four cytokinins tested TDZ(6.8μM) and BAP(8.9μM) proved\r\nsuperior to other treatments. A mass in vitro propagation system devoid of growth regulators has been developed.\r\nMS medium supplemented with an antibiotic (trimethoprim) or a fungicide (bavistin) supports direct shoot bud\r\ninduction on internode and leaf explants. Bavistin showed a marked cytokinin like activity thus optimum\r\nadventitious shoot buds induction occurred on MS medium supplemented with 1569.14μM bavistin. MS medium\r\nsupplemented with 0.44μM BAP and 1.14μM IAA found most suitable for shoot elongation. In vitro derived shoots\r\nexhibited better rooting response on MS medium containing 4.9μM IBA. Regenerated rooted plantlets of B.\r\nmonniera were successfully acclimatized in soilrite. The in vitro raised plants were grown normally in the field\r\nwithout showing any morphological variation.\r\nKeywords : Brahmi, Bacopa monniera, Shoot regeneration\r\nAbbreviations : BVN-bavistin {Methyl benzimidozole carbamate}; BAP-6-benzylaminopurine; GR-growth regulator; IAAindole-\r\n3-acectic acid; IBA-indole-3-butyric acid; KIN-kinetin; MS medium-Murashige and Skoog (1962) medium; NAA-α\r\nnaphthaleneacetic acid; TDZ-thidiazuron (N-phenyl-N’-1, 2, 3-thidiazol-5-ylurea); TMP-trimethoprim {2,4 di-amino-5-\r\n{3,4,5-trimethoxybenzyl} pyrimidine.\r\nISSN : 0975-1130\r\nBiological Forum — An International Journal, 2(1): 18-22(2010)\r\nTiwari and Singh 19\r\nTable : 1. Response of different explants of Bacopa monniera cultured on MS medium supplemented with various\r\ncytokinins.\r\nCytokinins Concentration (μM) Explant\r\nNode Internode Leaf\r\nBAP 0.0 0.0a (0)* 8.3a (75) 6.1a (100)\r\n0.44 8.1b (100) 16.1b (100) 14.2b (100)\r\n2.2 8.5b (100) 17.8c (100) 22.6c (100)\r\n4.4 17.6d (100) 23.2e (100) 28.5e (100)\r\n6.6 21.6e (100) 26.8g (100) 35.7d (100)\r\n8.9 25.2e (100) 30.5f (100) 82.4g (100)\r\n22.2 12.2c (100) 22.3d (100) 70.5f (100)\r\nKIN 0.0 0.0a (0) 6.9a (80) 3.2ab (95)\r\n0.46 3.4b (100) 8.4b (100) 5.2a (100)\r\n2.3 3.8c (100) 17.2c (100) 7.8b (100)\r\n4.6 10.2d (100) 19.4d (100) 22.4f (100)\r\n6.9 20.4f (100) 22.5e (100) 15.2e (100)\r\n9.3 12.5e (100) 17.3c (100) 13.2d (100)\r\n23.2 7.4d (100) 15.8c (100) 11.4c (100)\r\nTDZ 0.0 0.0a (100) 7.2b (100) 5.8a (100)\r\n0.45 3.2b (100) 12.4c (100) 20.2c (100)\r\n2.2 10.6c (100) 16.2d (100) 22.7c (100)\r\n4.5 15.7e (100) 18.1e (100) 30.8d (100)\r\n6.8 50.2g (100) 30.1f (100) 120.8f (100)\r\n9.0 25.1f (100) 5.2b (100) 52.2e (100)\r\n22.7 9.2d (100) 2.2a (100) 18.2b (100)\r\n2-iP 0.0 0.0a (100) 4.2bc (100) 5.8b (100)\r\n0.49 3.4b (100) 6.8bc (100) 3.9a (100)\r\n2.4 5.2c (100) 4.5b (100) 4.7ab (100)\r\n4.9 6.2c (100) 6.2bc (100) 8.1c (100)\r\n7.3 8.8d (100) 7.8c (100) 13.4e (100)\r\n9.3 11.2e (100) 15.8d (100) 14.1e (100)\r\n24.6 6.4d (100) 2.8a (100) 12.5d (100)\r\nEach mean is based on two replicates, each of which consisted 20 culture tubes (Culture age; 4 weeks). Mean having different letters in\r\nsuperscript are significantly different from each other (p < 0.05) according to ANOVA and Duncan multiple range test.\r\n* Figures within parentheses represent responding frequency in percent.\r\nbavistin (BVN) are also evaluated for its regeneration\r\npotential from different explants of B. monniera.\r\nMATERIALS AND METHODS\r\nExplants preparation and culture conditions. Node\r\n(0.8-1.0 cm), internode (1.0 cm) and leaf (0.6 cm) explants\r\nwere excised from 4-week old shoots raised from axillary\r\nbuds of nodal explants cultured on GR-free MS\r\n(Murashige and Skoog 1962) medium. The shoot\r\nregeneration potential of different explants was assessed\r\non MS medium containing BAP(0.0-22.2μM), kinetin(0.0-\r\n23.2μM), TDZ(0.0-22.7μM), 2iP(0.0-24.6μM) Table1.\r\nBVN(0.0-1830.5μM) and TMP(0.0-1205.4 μM) were added\r\nseparately in MS medium (Table 2) to evaluate its\r\npotential for organogenesis. TMP (Hi-Media, Mumbai,\r\nIndia) and BVN (BASF, Mumbai, India) were added in\r\nthe media before autoclaving. All the media were\r\nsupplemented with 3% sucrose. The media were solidified\r\nwith 0.8% agar (w/v) (Himedia, Mumbai, India). The pH\r\nof the medium was adjusted to 5.8 prior to autoclaving.\r\nMedia sterlized by autoclving at 15 p.s.i. (1.04 kg/cm2)\r\npressure for 20 minutes. The cultures were incubated at\r\n24 ± 2°C under 16-h photoperiod with white cool\r\nflorescent tubes (Philips, India) at a unit of irradiance of\r\n50 μmolm–2s–1.Elongation, rooting and acclimatization. For elongation\r\nand growth of shoots, MS medium supplemented with GA3\r\n(0.29-2.89 μM), BAP(0.04-0.44 μM) and BAP(0.04-0.44 μM)\r\nplus IAA(1.14 μM) Table 3. For root induction elongated\r\nshoots 5cm were harvested and cultured on MS media\r\nsupplemented with IBA (0.49-4.90 μM) Table 4. Plantlets were\r\nremoved from the culture vials, washed gently under running\r\ntap water, placed in a 250 ml beaker containing tap water for\r\n15 min, and finally transferred to cups filled with sterilized\r\nsoilrite. To achieve high humidity the cups were covered\r\nwith polythene bags and irrigated daily with 1-2 ml tap water;\r\nthe plants were maintained in culture room at 24 ± 2ºC and\r\n16-h daily illumination of 20 μmol m– 2 s– 1 provided by the\r\ncool white fluorescent tubes for another 2 weeks before the\r\nplants were transferred to the plastic cup containing mixture\r\nof garden soil and sand before shifting into the field.\r\nTable : 3. Elongation of shoots of B. monniera cultured\r\non MS medium supplemented with different growth\r\nregulators.\r\nGrowth regulators Shoot length Number of\r\n(μM) (cm) nodes/shoot\r\nGA3 BAP IAA\r\n0.0 0.0 0.0 0.0a 0.0a\r\n0.29 2.1b 2.4b\r\n1.44 3.2c 2.8b\r\n(Contd...)\r\nGrowth regulators Shoot length Number of\r\n(μM) (cm) nodes/shoot\r\nGA3 BAP IAA\r\n2.89 3.8cd 3.1bc\r\n0.04 3.4c 3.2bc\r\n0.22 4.2d 3.9c\r\n0.44 5.1e 4.1c\r\n0.04 1.14 4.3d 4.0c\r\n0.22 1.14 5.4e 5.8d\r\n0.44 1.14 7.8f 6.2d\r\nEach mean is based on two replicates, each of which consisted of 20\r\nculture tubes (culture age: 4 weeks). Mean having different letters in\r\nsuperscript are significantly different from each other (p < 0.05)\r\naccording to ANOVA and Duncan multiple range test.\r\nTable 4 : Evaluation of different concentrations of IBA\r\nfor in vitro root regeneration from shoots of B.\r\nmonniera cultured on MS medium.\r\nConcentation of Number of Mean root\r\nIBA (μM) roots/shoots length (cm)\r\n0.49 1.2a 1.1a\r\n0.98 3.2b 2.5b\r\n1.97 4.8bc 3.8c\r\n3.44 6.7c 4.5cd\r\n4.90 8.2d 5.2d\r\nEach mean is based on two replicates, each of which consisted of 20\r\nculture tubes (culture age: 4 weeks). Mean having different letters in\r\nsuperscript are significantly different from each other (p < 0.05)\r\naccording to ANOVA and Duncan multiple range test.\r\nStatistical analysis of the data. Experiments were set\r\nup in a randomized block design and each experiments\r\nusually had two replicates; each of which consisted of 20\r\nculture tubes. The analysis of variance (ANOVA) appropriate\r\nfor the design was carried out to detect the significance of\r\ndifferences among the treatment means. The treatment means\r\nwere compared using Duncan’s multiple range test (DMRT)\r\nat the 5% probability level according to Gomez and Gomez\r\n(1984).\r\nRESULTS AND DISCUSSION\r\nThe four cytokinins (BAP, KIN, TDZ and 2-iP) were\r\nevaluated for multiple shoot induction on node, internode\r\nand leaf explants. Shoot buds were induced after 4 weeks\r\nof culture initiation. Analysis of variance revealed a\r\nsignificant effect (P < 0.05) of explant, cytokinin within each\r\nexplant and cytokinin concentration within cytokinins within\r\nexplant for a number of adventitious shoot buds produced\r\nper explant. A comparison of the different explant showed\r\nthat maximum average number of adventitious shoot buds\r\nper explant was observed in leaf (Fig.1C) followed by\r\ninternode (Fig.1B) and node (Fig.1A), Table 1.\r\nTiwari and Singh 21\r\nFig. 1A. Shoot induction from node on MS+8.9 μM BAP, B.\r\nAdventitious shoot bud induction from internode cultured on\r\nMS+8.9 μM BAP, C. Adventitious shoot bud induction from leaf\r\ncultured on MS+8.9 μM BAP, D. High frequency adventitious\r\nshoot bud induction from internode cultured on MS+1569.14 μM\r\nbavistin, E. Shoot elongation on MS+0.44 μM BAP+1.14 μM IAA,\r\nF. Rooting of elongated shoot cultured on MS+ 4.9 μM IBA, G.\r\nAcclimatized plantlets of B. monniera transferred into plastic cup\r\ncontaining the mixture of garden soil and sand.\r\nIn general, BAP was more effective than other\r\ncytokinins. The stimulating effect of BAP on multiple shoot\r\nformation has been reported for several medicinal plant\r\nspecies (Wang et. al., 2004; Espimosa et. al., 2006).\r\nTMP and BVN concentration had a stimulatory effect\r\non shoot bud induction from different explants of Bacopa\r\nmonniera Table 2. In general, the number of shoot buds\r\nper explant increased up to certain concentrations\r\ndepending upon the additives TMP (688.8 μM) and BVN\r\n(1569.1 μM) .In absence of additives, shoot buds were not\r\nproduced. BVN is superior than TMP for shoot induction.\r\nThe explants cultured on MS medium containing 1569.1\r\nμM BVN were the most effective both in terms of frequency\r\nand number of shoot bud regeneration Table 2. Internode\r\nwas the most responsive explant (Fig.1D), producing the\r\nhighest number of adventitious shoot buds (125.1) followed\r\nby leaf (95.4) and node (40.4) explants. BVN is a systemic\r\nfungicide that belongs to benzimidazole family.\r\nBenzimidazoles are a group of organic fungicides with\r\nsystemic action. Its molecular structure shows resemblance\r\nwith cytokinins (Tripathi and Ram, 1982). Benzimidazoles\r\nhave a cytokinin activity in soy and radish (Skene, 1972;\r\nThomas, 1974). It needs further investigation to explain\r\nthe mechanism by which BVN triggers shoot regeneration\r\nin Bacopa monniera cultures.\r\nShoots developed from different explants they did not\r\nelongate further. Therefore, young shoots were transferred\r\nto MS medium supplemented with GA3 (0.29-2.89 μM), BAP\r\n(0.04-0.44 μM) and BAP (0.04-0.44 μM)+IAA (1.14 μM)\r\nTable 3. Optimum shoot growth in terms of shoot length\r\n(7.8 cm) and number of nodes per shoots(6.2) was recorded\r\non MS medium supplemented with BAP (0.44 μM) and IAA\r\n(1.14 μM) (Fig.1E).\r\nElongated shoots of 5-6 cm in length were separated\r\nand culture on MS medium supplemented with IBA (0.49-\r\n4.90 μM) Table 4. Analysis of variance revealed a significant\r\neffect (p < 0.05) on the number of roots/shoots and mean\r\nroot length. A comparison by DMRT revealed optimum\r\nnumber of roots/shoot (8.2) and root length (5.2 cm) (Fig.1F).\r\nIBA is highly effective auxin for rooting of in vitro\r\nregenerated shoots in several plants species (Gururaj et. al.,\r\n2007).\r\nThe acclimatized plantlets (Fig.1G) were successfully\r\nestablished in the field with 95% survival. There was no\r\nvariation observed among field transferred plants with\r\nrespect to morphology and growth characteristics.\r\nThis study established the very high frequency in vitro\r\nregeneration protocol for mass multiplication of\r\nB. monniera. The present study demonstrates the novel\r\nrole of BVN in inducing high-frequency adventitious shoot\r\nbud formation.','Kavindra Nath Tiwari and Jayanti Singh (2010). Effective organogenesis from different explants of Bacopa monniera L.(Wettst.)-An important medicinal plant. Biological Forum — An International Journal, 2(1): 18-22. '),(4789,'92','A Comparative Study of Various Aspects of “Defense Mechanism” Acquired by Silicon with Regard to Different Pathogenic Interactions','Ishani, Shivam Singh* and Akashdeep Sutradhar','51 A Comparative Study of Various Aspects of “Defense Mechanism” Acquired by Silicon with Regard to Different Pathogenic Interactions Shivam Singh 711.pdf','',4,'Earlier, while considering the requirements of general vascular plants, Silicon was not acknowledged as something vital. But later, it was found that Silicon is greatly responsible to resist fungal as well as bacterial diseases in plants. Also, it influences the growth and development of an extensive range of plant species. Silicon is well-acknowledged for its nature of effective mitigation against numerous climatic stresses. Silicon generally functions as an immune-modulator for influencing the possible measures of plant defense responses in plants. Mainly, it will interact with the major components that are releasing stress signals in plant system. Hence, Silicon will be ultimately responsible for the induced resistance. In this review, we will be considering a comparative analysis of physical, chemical, molecular and cellular defense response produced by Silicon in different crops. Another major summarization from this review will be regarding the role of Silicon in plant-microbe interaction. But as there are no direct instances of silicon being responsible for plant pathogenic functionary it could be questionable that how silicon is hindering the plant pathogenic interactions. This article is attempting to answer such doubts by giving a brief comparison of silicon being assessed in physical, chemical, molecular and cellular manner. The assessment is purely based on how pathogens react to the silicon application on different levels of physiology. Consequently, this evaluation will be helpful in ameliorating the plant resistance by certain modifications in Silica fertilizers input. Although one major drawback can be convincing the farmers to swaping to a new type of fertilizer. This article highlights the future aspect of research concerning the performance of Silicon in agriculture-farming.','Silica, Defense response, Plant-pathogen interactivity','The whole article revolves around the silicon providing the defense mechanism to plants against stress conditions that could be initiated by pathogens. For the following verification different levels or aspects were taken, be it physical, biochemical, molecular or cellular. Experiments were discussed for more clarification. Moreover, how silicon could be non-toxically utilized in the fields, from which particular crop it could be extracted and the other important data is also summarized here. It was found that silicon can bless the plant with a good defense mechanism. And can resist fungal as well as bacterial diseases to an extent. By combining available information on the interaction of plant–microbes mediated by Si, the physical, biochemical, and molecular mechanisms that can be attributed to Si-mediated plant defense responses have been summarized in this review.Although numerous studies have elucidated the possible mechanism of Si-mediated resistance at the physical, biochemical, and molecular levels, detailed mechanisms of Si regulated plant–microbe interactions, such as plant signaling transduction and transcriptome regulation of defense-related pathways, are needed for further study','Silicon is considered as the second most plentiful element in the universe consisting 70 percent soil abundance (Epstein, 1994; Savant et al., 1997; Ma and Yamaji, 2006). New studies have shown Silicon as a beneficial element, contradicting the previous reports where its essentiality was considered minimum. Major uptake of Silicon is done via root system and hence it affects the accumulation rate of Silicon among different plant species (Takahashi et al., 1990). Numerous studies have found that it is not essential for silicon mediated resistance to always locate in the root system of the plant. By considering an example of Silicon influencing resistance in tomato we can verify the previous statement. In case of silicon influencing resistance in tomato crop against pathogen Ralstonia solanacearum, the resistance is detected in the shoot complex. This could be because of certain alterations in the pectic polysaccharide morphology of shoot plasma membrane, hence restricts the bacterial fluctuations towards stem (Diago and Wydra, 2007). \r\nWhile contemplating the uptake of silicon via the roots, appears as silicic acid that is hydrate of silica (Ma and Yamaji,2006). The movement of this silicic acid occurs through cytomembrane with the help of two carriers namely Lsi1 and Lsi2. These two acts as influx and efflux transporters respectively (Ma et al., 2006, 2008). The captivated silicon is largely sedimented in the plasma membrane and is highly necessitate with stress linked signals (Fauteux et al., 2005). \r\nAfter all things considered about stress linked signals, one of the most important properties of Silicon can be evaluated here. It improves the mechanically operated and functional features of plants and works well for controlling certain biotic as well as abiotic stress conditions (Epstein, 1994; Richmond and Sussman, 2003; Ma, 2004; Heine et al., 2007; Ma and Yamaji, 2006). Abiotic stress could be any drought situation, lodging, salinity stress, imbalance in nutrients, toxicity due to some metal etc. (Epstein 1994 & 1999; Savant et al., 1997; Liu et al.,2014; Ma and Yamaji, 2006; Coskun et al., 2016). Silicon enriches the resistance towards diseases caused by bacteria, fungi as well as pests (Fauteux et al., 2005; Marschner, 2012). Theolder approaches used for pathogenic management are becoming resistant with continuous application. Ultimately, plant protection needs some changes and advancements now. Silicon application can be a great replacement as it is required and applied in minute amount that will reduce the toxic pressure on environment as well as soil.\r\nSome studies have been attentive about the role of silicon in the interaction of microbes with plant system. This not only enhances host resistance but also stimulates the defense responses (Cai et al., 2008; Ghareeb et al., 2011; Ye et al., 2013). Certain experiments showed that Silicon shows more resistance in particular crops e.g. rice and cucumber (Ma et al., 2006). As we know that plant diseases are the ultimate result of plant pathogen interaction and hereby considering its the primary role of silicon, we will see what type of resistance this silicon will show with several plant diseases in different crops (Table 1).\r\n \r\nTable 1: Silicon showing resistance mechanism with respect to different aspects (crop species and pathogen invading).\r\nCrop Disease Pathogen Resistance Mechanism Reference\r\nArabidopsis Powdery mildew Erysiphe cichoracearum, Agrobacterium tumefaciens Physical, Biochemical,\r\nMolecular Ghanmi et al., 2004; Fauteux et al., 2006; Vivancos et al., 2015) \r\nBanana Black sigatoka Mycosphaerella fijiensis Physical, Biochemical Kablan et al., 2012\r\nBarley Powdery mildew Blumeria graminis Physical Wiese et al., 2005\r\nBean Angular leaf spot Pseudocercospora griseola Physical Rodrigues et al., 2010\r\n \r\nSilicon initiates resistance by preventing the penetration by various means-\r\n1. Structural implementation (Epstein,1999, 2001; Rodrigues et al., 2015).\r\n2. Stimulation of systemically acquired resistance.\r\n3. By producing anti-microbial compound (Fauteux et al., 2005; Datnoff et al., 2007; Fortunato et al., 2012; Van et al., 2013). \r\n4. By activating numerous signaling pathways (Chen et al., 2009, 2014; Vivancos et al., 2015).\r\nA. Silicon-mediated resistance\r\n1. Physical resistance: Every plant pathogen requires to penetrate through wax layers, cuticles and cell walls to cause infection successfully in any host plant (Schmelzer,2002; Nawrath, 2006; Lazniewska et al., 2012). Silica improves this protective layer by improving its mechanical strength (Epstein, 1999 &2001; Sun et al., 2010). Mainly Silicon acts as physical barrier that inhibits the penetration of the pathogen in host plant and make it less vulnerable to degradation done by enzymes that are secreted by pathogen annexation (Innaga et al.,1995; Fauteux et al., 2005; Datnoff et al., 2007; Van et al., 2013). Silicon gets sedimented under the cuticle layer form a cuticle-silicon double layer which prevents plant from pathogen penetration and hence automatically reduces the disease incidence (Ma and Yamaji, 2006 & 2008). \r\nSilicon gets interconnected with hemicellulose present in cell membrane and this linkage highly improves the mechanical possessions and regeneration (He et al., 2015; Guerriro et al., 2016). Various studies also found some proofs regarding a noticeable increase in cell wall turgidity due to silicon (Marschner, 2012). In context to previous statement it was found that in earliest cell walls if silicon applied, it interacts with cell wall components like pectins or polyphenols, this leads to increase in turgidity of cell wall in growing period (Emadian and Newton, 1989). Supplement of silicon delays the invasion of pathogen into epidermal cells and hence less colonization of pathogen will be there. Some popular examples to physical resistance are-\r\na. In case of rice infected with Pyricularia oryzae, Silicon prevents the hyphal entry and for other several leaf cells where silicon could not reach, a noticeable amount of invasion was there (Sousa et al., 2013).\r\nNo. of appressorial sites was also reduced where silicon was supplied (Hayasaka et al., 2008).\r\nb. For rice infected with Pyricularia grisea and Rhizoctonia solani, less no. of leaf blade lesions was found when silicon was applied. (Rodrigues et al., 2001; Seebold et al., 2004). \r\nFormation of papillae: Under physical resistance one more important aspect is formation of papillae. This process is enhanced by Silicon during pathogen interaction. Accumulation of silicon occurs in haustorial neck of fungus and also in the papillae. This accumulation helps in preventing the invasion of the pathogen (Zeyen et al., 1993; Samuels et al., 1994). Certain reports showed that in case of barley, the papillae formation will be there. Here, epidermal cells with induce the production of this papillae when Blumeria graminis f.sp. hordeicause the infectionduring silicon application. Another example is of rose plant where silicon application increases the papillae formation in the cells of leaves that restricts Podosphaera pannosa (Shetty et al., 2012). Similarly, in case of rice and wheat papillae formation will restrict rice blast (Cai et al., 2008) and powdery mildew (Belanger et al., 2003) respectively. \r\nIn 2007, Heine et al., gave the reports declaring that the potential of silicon to inhibit disease spread inthe root area depends on the uptake of silicon done by root cell protoplasts. The accumulation that occurs on later stage may not be responsible for the physical barrier as noted in Pythium aphanidermatum in tomato. Cucumber also showed systemic resistance when supplied with silicon (Liang et al., 2005). Physical resistance is much simpler than biochemical and molecular resistance.\r\n2. Biochemical resistance: Silicon induced biochemical resistance is linked with certain features-\r\na. Increases the potential of defense enzymes e.g. glucanose, peroxidase, phenylalanine ammonia-lyase etc. \r\nb. Induction of anti-microbial compounds production e.g. phenolic, flavonoids, PR proteins and phytoalexins. \r\nc. Regulates certain systemic signals e.g. Jasmonic acid, ethylene, salicylic acid (Datnoff et al., 2007; Fortunato et al., 2012; Van et al., 2013).\r\nDefensive enzymes and anti-microbial compounds\r\nWhenever plant pathogen interaction occurs Silicon has been reported to stimulate Defense-related enzymes and also certain anti-microbial compounds (Fauteux et al., 2005; Datnoff et al., 2007; Van et al., 2013). Silicon mainly activates the important defense related enzymes e.g. polyphenol oxidases, catalase, peroxidases, chitinase, glucanase etc. Major enzymes such as phenylalanine ammonia- lyase are responsible for producing secondary anti- microbial compounds. These compounds are really important for resistance towards plant diseases (Waewthongrak et al., 2015). \r\nAfter the application of silicon if amount of phenylalanine ammonia-lyase increases, it will lead to accumulation of derivatives of totally resolvable phenic and lignine- thioglycolic acid in the banana leaves and also in coffee plant. This accumulation will reduce the disease prevalence (Silva et al., 2010; Fortunato et al., 2012). Furthermore, the other component PPO (polyphenol oxidase) is also an important enzyme for phenolic substance oxidation. It is found free in cytoplasm or sometimes bound with particular organelle (Quarta et al., 2013). PPO is responsible for lignin synthesis, increases the anti-bacterial potential of host plants and hence correlated with plant disease resistance (Piperno, 2006; Song et al., 2016). Another important activity which is affected by silicon could be peroxidase and chitinase activities which are the crucial components for host-disease resistance (Brisson et al., 1994). \r\nCertain defensive enzymes are regulated by SI in accordance to different plant pathogen network (Table 2). Here defense related enzymes are secreted when silicon is applied. Examples are taken of beans, cucumber, melon and pea. For diseases like anthracnose, crown and root rot, pink rot and leaf spot. For all these diseases pathogen interaction will be different hence releasing different defense related enzymes. Higher the activity of these enzymes higher will be the accumulation of antimicrobial compounds which will give a substantial response as induced defense system (Fawe et al., 1998; Rodrigues et al., 2004; Remus-Borel et al., 2005). Antimicrobial compounds like phenols, phytoalexins, flavonoids etc. helps the host plant to fight back the infection (Fauteux et al., 2005; Van et al., 2013). \r\nSystemic signals\r\nHost plant develops numerous layers of constitutive and inducible mechanism of defense that ultimately gets regulation with the help of signal transduction pathway (Grant et al., 2013). Salicylic acid, Jasmonic acid and ethylene functions great for immunity networks (Clarke et al., 2000; Devadas et al., 2002). The reactivity for three of them are different as salicylic acid works against biotrophs and hemi biotrophs whereas Jasmonic acid and ethylene works against necrotrophs (Pieterse et al., 2012). These signaling pathways and some modulating plant hormone homeostasis together are also regulated by silicon (Fauteux et al., 2006; Iwai et al., 2006; De-Vleesschauwer et al., 2008; Ghareeb et al., 2011; Reynolds et al., 2016). \r\nIn case of silicon supplied Arabidopsis plants that are having powdery mildew infection (Erysiphe cichoracearum), production of salicylic acid, jasmonic acid and ethylene were seen in the leaves of plants that leads to increased resistance (Fauteux et al., 2006). In this similar case Silicon also increased the gene expression that is encoded with enzymes that participates in salicylic pathway. Phenotypes that were resistant showed significant lower level for salicylic acid as compared to the susceptible ones (Vivancos et al., 2015). \r\nMajorly three types of active mechanism of defense are available in biochemical resistance that are induced by Silicon. First mechanism includes initial response by cells when infection starts, second mechanism includes the secondary response initiated by elicitors and it remains restricted to the area of initial infection and third mechanism includes the tertiary systemically acquired response which gets transferred throughout the infected plant (Hutcheson, 1998).\r\n\r\n\r\n3. Molecular mechanism\r\nSilicon plays an important role in the metabolic activities of Phyto-pathological interaction. It leads to activation of defense genes in host plants by initiating functional and biochemical reactions. Signal transduction also occurs here which induces resistance and defense mechanism in plants (Vivancos et al., 2015). Some transcriptomic experiments have been performed to illustrate the role of silicon in inducing defense responses in different plant systems (Chain et al., 2009; Majeed Zargar et al., 2010; Ghareeb et al., 2011; Nwugo and Huerta et al., 2011). In case of tomato plant, Silicon induces resistance against Ralstonia solanacearum by regulating the gene expressions with regard to stress and defensive responses, e.g. DRR proteins, trehalose phosphatase, WRKYI transcription (Ghareeb et al., 2011). \r\nSignaling pathways that are regulated by silicon have already been discussed in the portion of “Systemic signals”. \r\n\r\nIn cucumber, systemic acquired resistance is induced by silicon by expressing gene encoded with a new strain of proline rich protein when fungal infection occurred (Kauss et al., 2003). In tomato also, CHI-II, GLU, PGIP and PODwhen expressed, were found restricting R. solanacearum (Ghareeb et al., 2011).\r\n4. Cellular mechanism:For explaining the cellular mechanism, an illustration was done. Let’s review this experiment further.\r\na. Plant material: Cotton seeds (Gossypium hirsutum) of cultivar Sicot was obtained for this experiment. 5 plants were grown in pot of 10cm with requirements as given- 16h light, 23-degree Celsius Day temperature, 8h night with 18-degree Celsius and light fraction440πmol m–2 s–1 (Bunt,1998).\r\nb. Treatments: Silicon source was potassium silicate soil drench. Potassium silicate (1.5 mL L-1 water, equivalent to 0.56 g SiO2. Make it a soil drench and apply 150 mL per pot. Potassium silicate reduced the disease incidence as well as promoted the plant growth (Whan, 2010). With regular addition of liquid silicate, it was found that silicon uptake was more in such plants as compared to the plants that are not regularly supplied with silicon.\r\nc. Inoculation: 3 weeks seedlings were infected with pathogen F. oxysporum f.sp. vasinfectum by root dip method.\r\nd. Transmission electron microscopy and light microscopy\r\nFor this experiment, 50 samples were taken each being representative of different treatments applied. Duration were kept 2,3,7,14 and 28 days after inoculation. Small cuttings of roots were taken and then 3% glutaraldehyde with 0.1 M phosphate buffer was applied. Pelco Biowave Microwave system was used for the processing (Wendt et al., 2004). Uranyl acetate was not applied in this process. Infiltration of samples were done with 100% Epon resin on a rotating machine. An ultramicrotome was used to do the sectioning process. Section with a thick diameter were taken for cellular analysis, they were chopped with the glass knife in the initial stage and Toluidine blue was applied. After that we can illustrate it under light microscope. For a second instance think diameter sections were taken and glass knife was used for chopping. These thin cuttings then placed onto Formvar-coated copper grids. After taking the pieces out of the grid, staining with uranyl acetate and lead citrate was done (Samuels et al., 1994). Then checked under transmission electron microscope. As a result, micrographs of cotton plants treated with silicon showed defense reaction against F. oxysporum f.sp. vasinfectum.\r\n \r\n\r\n','Ishani, Shivam Singh* and Akashdeep Sutradhar (2021). A Comparative Study of Various Aspects of “Defense Mechanism” Acquired by Silicon with Regard to Different Pathogenic Interactions. Biological Forum – An International Journal 13(1): 356-362. '),(4790,'92','Biplot Analysis of Adaptability Measures of Barley Genotypes Evaluated under Salinity and Alkalinity Conditions','Ajay Verma*, R.P.S. Verma, J. Singh, L. Kumar and G.P. Singh','58 Biplot Analysis of Adaptability Measures of Barley Genotypes Evaluated under Salinity and Alkalinity Conditions AJAY VERMA 743.pdf','',4,'Analytic measures of adaptability had been defined recently for efficient estimation of GxE interaction under multi environment trials. Highly significant effects of the environment (E), genotypes (G), and GxE interaction had been observed by AMMI analysis. GxE interaction accounted for 38.4% whereas Environment explained 31.7% of treatment variations in yield during first year. Harmonic Mean of Genotypic Values (HMGV) expressed higher values for NDB1445, RD2552, DWRB201 genotypes. Ranking of genotype as per IPCA-1 wereHUB268, DWRB201, RD2999.While IPCA-2, selected RD2907, DWRB201, HUB267 genotypes. Values of Measures ASV1 and ASV identified DWRB201, HUB267, HUB268 barley genotypes. Adaptability measures Harmonic Mean of Relative Performance of Genotypic Values (HMPRVG) and Relative Performance of Genotypic Values (RPGV) identified NDB1445, RD2552, DWRB201 as the genotypes of performance among the locations. Biplot graphical analysis exhibited PRVG, HMPRVG clustered with mean, GM, HM IPC2, IPC5 measures. During 2019-20 cropping season Environment effects accounted 42.5% whereas GxE interaction contributed for 30.2 % % of treatment variations in yield. HMGV expressed higher values for RD3016, KB1822, RD3017. IPCA-1 scores, desired ranking of genotypes wasRD2907, HUB274, KB1845. While IPCA-2 pointed towards RD2907, RD3015, KB1815, as genotypes of choice. Analytic measures ASV and ASV1 selected PL908, RD2849, DWRB123 barley genotypes. HMRPGV along with PRVG settled for RD3016, KB1822, RD3017. Measures ASV, ASV1 expressed bondage with adaptability measures PRVG, HMPRVG, mean, GM along with IPC3 as observed in different quadrant of biplot analysis. Selection of barley genotypes by the harmonic mean of genotypic values allow to identify the stable and productive genotypes for problem soils of the country.','AMMI, ASV, ASV1, HMGV, GAI, HMPRVG, Biplots','Researchers concentrates on genotypes with high productive potential that respond to favourable environments. Often the occurrence of complex type GxE interaction leads to uncertainty in the identification of promising genotype; in this case, techniques exploit adaptability and stability can provide precise information about genotypes performance. The identification of stable and highly productive genotypes between different environments remains a constant challenge for breeders of various crop species around the world. Selection of barley genotypes by the harmonic mean of genotypic values allow to identify the stable and productive genotypes for problem soils of the country','Barley (Hordeum vulgare L.), an ancient cereal crop, domesticated about 10,000 years ago mentioned as the fourth important crop in the world agriculture scenario(Kendell et al., 2019). Mainly cultivated not only for food, bio-fuel and animal feed but used as raw material for malt and malt-basedproducts (Kharub et al., 2017). A target to restoring 26 million ha of degraded lands, including salt-affected soils, had been fixed by the year 2030 to ensure food security for the people (Kumar & Sharma, 2020). Grains consist ß-glucan, an important constituent of human diets. ß-glucan plays a critical role in decreasing the sugar of diabetic patients, reduce the serum cholesterol of heart patients and decrease the risk of coronary heart disease (Shimizu et al., 2008). Now a days more emphasis given to consume barley and barley-based products by the health-conscious consumers (Karkee et al., 2020). AMMI analysis had been established as an efficient analytic tool for GxE interaction analysis under multi location trials (Ajay et al., 2019; Agahi et al., 2020). Researchers identify barley genotypes would possess stable yield along with broad or narrow adaptation of the genotypes (Bocianowsk et al., 2019). \r\nAMMI based stability and adaptability measures had observed in literature ( Tekdal & Kendal, 2018). Analytic measure of adaptability as the harmonic means of the relative performance of the predicted genotypic values (MHPRVG) utilized productivity, stability, and adaptability simultaneously of genotypes (Resende & Durate, 2007). Comparative performance of AMMI based measures had been studied with relatively new adaptability measures for barley genotypes evaluated under multi location research trials under coordinated barley improvement program of the country.\r\nMATERIAL AND METHODS\r\nDuring cropping seasons of 2018-19 and 2019-20 sixteen promising genotypes in advanced trials evaluated at seven major locations of the zone and eighteen genotypes at five locations respectively. Field trials were conducted at research centers in randomized complete block designs with three replications. Recommended agronomic practices were followed to harvest good yield. Details of locations and genotype parentage were reflected in Tables 1 & 2 for ready reference. \r\nAMMI analysis was performed using AMMISOFT version 1.0, available at https://scs.cals.cornell.edu/people/ hugh-gauch/and SAS software version 9.3. Simple and effective measure for adaptability is calculated as the relative performance of genetic values (PRVG) across environments and MHVG (Harmonic mean of Genetic Values), based on the harmonic mean of the genotypic values across in different environments. Lower the standard deviation of genotypic performance across environments, the greater is the harmonic mean of its genotypic values. \r\nRESULTS AND DISCUSSION\r\nA. AMMI analysis of barley genotypes \r\nFirst year of study 2018-19. AMMI based measures evaluate the adaptability performance after reduction of the noise from the GxE interaction effects (Gauch, 2013). Highly significant effects of the environment (E), GxE interaction and genotypes (G), had been observed by AMMI analysis of barley genotypes evaluated under multi location trials for coordinated improvement program (Table 3). Analysis observed the greater contribution of GxE interactions, environments, and of genotypes effects to the total sum of squares (SS) as compared to the residual effects (Hongyu et al., 2014). Environment explained about significantly 31.7% of the total sum of squares due to treatments indicating that diverse environments caused most of the variations in genotypes yield. Genotypes explained only 9.3% of a total sum of squares, whereas GxE interaction accounted for 38.4% of treatment variations in yield. Further bifurcation of GxE interaction observed the significant four multiplicative terms out of five explained most of interaction sum of squares (Oyekunle et al., 2017). \r\nSecond year 2019-20. Analysis observed the greater contribution of environments, GxE interactions, and genotypes to the total sum of squares (SS) as compared to the residual effects. Environment explained significantly about 42.5%, GxE interaction accounted for 30.2 % whereas Genotypes explained only 8.4% of the total sum of squares due to treatments (Table 7). Partitioning of GxE interaction revealed that only first three multiplicative terms were highly significant and explained most of the interaction sum of squares.\r\nB. Ranking of genotypes as per descriptive measures\r\nFirst year of study 2018-19. An average yield of genotypes selected NDB1445, RD2552, DWRB201 genotypes (Table 5). This method is simple, but not fully exploiting all information contained in the dataset. Geometric mean is used to evaluate the adaptability of genotypes. Geometric mean observed NDB1445, RD2552, DWRB201 were top-ranked genotypes. Harmonic mean of genetic values (HMGV) of yield expressed higher values for NDB1445, RD2552, DWRB201genotypes.\r\nConsistent yield performance judged by lower values of Coefficient of Variation and genotypes RD2907, DWRB207, HUB268 would be suitable for considered locations of this zone of the country. Minimum values of standard deviation of yield values selected RD2907, RD3002, RD2794 barley genotypes. Analytic measures PRVG, MHVG, and MHPRVG, had showed consensus for classification of genotypes as per raking of genotypes vis-à-vis analytic measures (Table 4). \r\nPresence of significant cross over interactions has been validated by differences among ranks of genotypes vis-à-vis locations of the zone.\r\nSecond year 2019-20. An average yield of genotypes selected RD3016, KB1822, RD3017 genotypes (Table 9). Geometric mean observed RD3016, KB1822, RD3017, were with top-rank. Harmonic mean of genetic values (HMGV) expressed higher values for RD3016, KB1822, RD3017 genotypes.\r\nConsistent yield performance of RD3016, RD2552, NDB1173 judged by lower values of Coefficient of Variation. Minimum values of standard deviation of yield values selected RD2552, KB1845, NDB1173 barley genotypes. Analytic measures PRVG, MHVG, and MHPRVG, had showed consensus for classification of genotypes as per raking of genotypes vis-à-vis analytic measures (Table 6). Presence of significant cross over interactions has been validated by differences among ranks of genotypes vis-à-vis locations of the zone.\r\nC. Adaptability behaviour of genotypes \r\nFirst year of study 2018-19. The IPCA scores of a genotype in AMMI analysis indicate the stability or adaptation over environments. The greater the IPCA scores, either negative or positive (as it is a relative value), the more specifically adapted is the genotype to certain environments. The more the IPCA scores approximate zero, the more stable or adapted the genotypes are over the entire environments sampled (Ajay et al., 2019). Kendal and Tekdal (2016) stated that genotypes having PC1 scores > 0 were recognized as high-yielding and those having PC1 scores < 0 were regarded as low-yielding.\r\nThe IPCA scores of genotypes in the AMMI analysis are an indication of stability or adaptability over environments. The ranking of genotype as per absolute IPCA-1 scores wereHUB268, DWRB201, RD2999 (Table 4). While for IPCA-2, genotypes RD2907, DWRB201, HUB267 would be of choice. Values of IPCA-3 favouredRD2552, RD2999, NDB1708 barley genotypes. While RD3000, RD2999, RD2552 by IPCA-4 and IPCA-5 settled for HUB268, NDB1173, NDB1445 barley genotypes for the considered locations of the zone.\r\nAnalytic measures of adaptability ASV and ASV1consider first two significant IPCAs of the AMMI analysis for adaptability behaviour. Values of ASV1 selected DWRB201, HUB267, HUB268 and ASV identified DWRB201, HUB267, HUB268 barley genotypes (Ajay et al 2019).Harmonic Mean of Relative Performance of Genotypic Values (HMRPGV) method, the genotypes can be simultaneously sorted by genotypic values (yield) and stability using the harmonic means of the yield so that the smaller the standard deviation of genotypic performance among the locations. Values of HMRPGV ranked NDB1445, RD2552, DWRB201 as the performance of the genotypes among the locations. When considering the yield and adaptability simultaneously, the recommended approach is the relative performance of genetic values (RPGV) over crop years. Relative Performance of Genotypic Values had settled for NDB1445, RD2552, DWRB201 genotypes.\r\nSecond year 2019-20. RD2907,HUB274, KB1845 were the top ranked genotype as per absolute IPCA-1 scores (Table 8). While for IPCA-2 identified RD2907, RD3015, KB1815 genotypes would be of choice. Values of IPCA-3 favouredRD3017, KB1822, NDB1173 barley genotypes. \r\nTwo significant IPCAs of the AMMI analysis considered by ASV and ASV1 for adaptability behaviour. Values of ASV1 selected RD2907, NDB1173, NDB1742 and ASV identified RD2907, NDB1173, RD2552 barley genotypes. Harmonic Mean of Relative Performance of Genotypic Values (HMRPGV) values ranked RD3016, KB1822, RD3017 as of stable performance among the locations. Relative Performance of Genotypic Values (RPGV) had settled for RD3016, KB1822, RD3017 genotypes.\r\nD. Biplot analysis\r\nFirst year of study 2018-19. Biplot analysis based on first two highly significant Interaction Principal Components exploited to understand the association if any among adaptability measures. First two significant interaction principal components contribute to the tune of 35.1 & 22.6 to the total for 57.7 % of total GxE interaction sum of squares (Fig. 1). Loadings of adaptability measures based on two interaction principal components had mentioned in table 6. CV clustered with Sdev, Average, IPC1 and IPC3 measures in one quadrant and adaptability measures PRVG, HMPRVG along with mean, GM, HM IPC2, IPC5 grouped in nearby cluster. Clustering of analytic measures ASV and ASV1 observed with IPC4 where close proximity of average yield among adaptability measures of genotypes was of more concern.\r\nSecond year 2019-20. First two significant interaction principal components accounted a total for 60.7 with respective % share of 37.9 & 22.7 of total GxE interaction sum of squares (Fig. 2). Loadings of adaptability measures based on two interaction principal components had mentioned in table 10. Measure CV clustered with Sdev & IPC2 in one quadrant while ASV, ASV1 expressed bondage with adaptability measures PRVG, HMPRVG, mean, GM along with IPC3 in separate quadrant. Measures IPC1, and HM clustered in nearby quadrant. Clustering of analytic measures expressed close proximity among themselves; this implies mean yield of genotypes would be suitable to express adaptability of genotypes as far this zone is concerned.\r\n','Ajay Verma*, R.P.S. Verma, J. Singh, L. Kumar and G.P. Singh (2021). Biplot Analysis of Adaptability Measures of Barley Genotypes Evaluated under Salinity and Alkalinity Conditions. Biological Forum – An International Journal 13(1): 420-428. '),(4791,'92','An Insight into Market competitiveness of Bean to Bar Chocolate in Coimbatore City – Application of Porter’s Five Forces Model','Arun Viswanathan S.K.1, Mahendran, K.2*, Moghana Lavanya S.3 and Sowmiyaa, S.4','70 An Insight into Market competitiveness of Bean to Bar Chocolate in Coimbatore City – Application of Porter’s Five Forces Model SOWMIYAA S 779.pdf','',4,'Understanding the external business environment is necessary for any entrepreneur to invest in a market. Analysis of market competitiveness provides insights into various factors involved in major decision making efforts. The current paper has attempted the same with the help of established tools and techniques. SWOT analysis and Porters five forces model are the commonly used tools for analyzing business and market based planning. The bean to bar chocolate is one of the fastest growing segments in food industry and effective marketing strategies would help attract investments through the entry of new players and also aid the growth of the exiting companies in the market. This study aims at understanding the competitiveness of bean to bar segment using the five key factors of Porter’s model by evaluating the competitive advantage and market profitability of bean to bar chocolate brands in Coimbatore City. The results of the study would serve as an eye-opener for budding entrepreneurs and existing business ventures to understand the current business environment for bean to bar segment in Coimbatore City. ','Five forces model, bean to bar chocolates, chocolates, business environment, market competitiveness, strategy, entrepreneurs ','The Porters model of analysis of the five competitive forces led to early identification of the market trends for the bean to bar chocolate industry in Coimbatore city. The analysis can be used to exploit the emerging opportunity in the confectionary segment. Bargaining power of buyers of bean to bar chocolates as well as the suppliers in Coimbatore city was found to be low to moderate. The competitive rivalry between the existing brands in Coimbatore is moderate to high. The threat of substitute products was also found to be moderate to high. While all the five forces exerted pressure on the industry to an extent, competitive rivalry between existing brands, threat of new entrants and substitutes were the major factors deciding the competitiveness of bean to bar chocolate industry in Coimbatore.','Last few years have seen a strong increase in appetite towards chocolates in India (Thomas, 2017). The chocolate market has evolved as an effective alternative to the traditional sweets and forging as a gifting option especially on occasions (Rehan, 2007). The market is currently dominated by multi-national companies like Cadburys, Nestle and Indian brand, Amul. These are commercial chocolates which are widely distributed and are widely available at a reasonable price in the market. The large increase in health-conscious consumers has given rise to various innovations in the food industry. The chocolate industry is usually considered as an unhealthy segment in food industry have undergone a dynamic change in perception amongst the clients. This has given rise to the evolution of bean to bar or craft chocolate industry around the world. Bean-to-Bar Chocolate market was valued at USD 11.14 billion in 2019 and is projected to reach USD 24.64 billion by 2027, growing at a CAGR of 11.22% from 2020 to 2027 (Verified Market Research, 2020). Bean to bar chocolates is the concept of sourcing chocolate directly from the cacao bean farmers and processing the bean to manufacture chocolates under controlled environment (Vaidyanathan, 2020). The bean to bar chocolates is usually made without any stabilizers or preservatives and often concentrate on dark chocolate which is considered as a healthy alternative to the commercially available chocolates. The bean to bar chocolate market has also seen a boom in India in the last decade and Coimbatore having access to good quality cacao from nearby places in Kerala state and Pollachi area has become the epicentre for bean to bar chocolate market for the country as whole. There are little evidences on business environments for the chocolate industry in India. The current research is first of its kind to construe the business environment for bean to bar chocolates in Coimbatore. The results would provide cognisance on the existing business environment and thereby elucidate the strengths and opportunities that lay ahead for the segment. \r\nMATERIAL AND METHODS\r\nA. Methodology\r\nTo understand the market competitiveness for the bean to bar chocolate industry in Coimbatore city, primary information was collected from the discussions with bean to bar customers, retail store managers and manufacturers in Coimbatore City. Secondary sources like books, research articles, newspapers and website publications were used to understand the market competitiveness of the industry around the world. The relevant information obtained from the discussion with the primary respondents has been used for analysing the competitiveness of the bean to bar chocolate industry in the city.\r\nThe Five Forces Model. The Five Forces Model, developed by Michael. E. Porter is the summary of competitive forces in five areas of the overall market (Porter, 1980). Porter\'s five forces include - three forces from \'horizontal\' competition: the threat of substitute products or services, the threat of established rivals, and the threat of new entrants; and two forces from \'vertical\' competition: the bargaining power of suppliers and the bargaining power of customers as shown in Fig.1. Analysis of current market structure of bean to bar chocolate was done in the study area (Coimbatore) using this framework.\r\nThe Porter Five Forces include –\r\nThreat of New Entrants. The threat of new entrants refers to the ability of new companies to enter into an industry. New entrants to an industry bring new capacity and a desire to gain market share that puts pressure on prices, costs, and the rate of investment necessary to compete (Porter, 2008).\r\nNew entrants in a market has a significant influence on the incumbents’ competitiveness and ability to generate profit. Despite numerous barriers to entry, new firms sometimes enter industries with higher-quality products, lower prices, and substantial marketing resources (David, 2011). \r\nBargaining Power of Suppliers. It refers to the pressure that suppliers can put on companies by raising their prices, lowering their quality, or reducing the availability of their products. Undermining the bargaining power of its suppliers can make a firm worse off (Bakos and Brynjolfsson, 1993). The bargaining power of suppliers affects the intensity of competition in an industry, especially when there is a large number of suppliers, when there are only a few good substitute raw materials, or when the cost of switching raw materials is especially costly.\r\nBargaining Power of Buyers. It refers to the pressure that customers/consumers can put on businesses to get them to provide higher quality products, better customer service, and/or lower prices. Knowing how the customers actually use the products enhances a company’s ability to segment customers, customise products set prices to capture better value, and extend value added services (Porter and Heppelmann (2014). When customers are concentrated or large or buy in volume, their bargaining power represents a major force affecting the intensity of competition in an industry.\r\nThreat from Substitute Products. Companies are concerned that substitute products or services may displace their own. Competitive pressures arising from substitute products increase as the relative price of substitute products declines and as consumers’ switching costs decrease.\r\nRivalry among the existing players. Competitive rivalry is a measure of the extent of competition among existing firms. Rivalry among competing firms is usually the most powerful of the five competitive forces (David, 2011). Intense rivalry can limit profits and lead to competitive moves, including price cutting, increased advertising expenditures, or spending on service/product improvements and innovation.\r\n\r\nRESULTS AND DISCUSSION\r\nIndia being a manufacturing hub, it is saddled with a lot of gaps in the industry (Kaushal, 2020). The bean to bar chocolate industry in Coimbatore is well developed in comparison to other regions of the country due to the presence of various players in the market. In 2020, the market was comprised of three major brands namely M&N chocolates, Soklet and Chitra’m craft chocolates. The brands currently operate in different business formats with M&N chocolates focussed on standalone store model, Soklet with extensive retailing and distribution network and Chitra’m craft chocolates available in the format of a café and in few organic retail stores. \r\nThe market is in its nascent stages in Coimbatore and the companies are implementing various measures to improve the sales and customer base. The study has analyzed the competitiveness of bean to bar chocolate industry Coimbatore with the help of Porter’s Five Forces Model as the tool. \r\nA. Threat of New Entrants – Moderate to High\r\nThe threat of new entrants in the bean to bar chocolate industry is moderate to high. New entrants brings innovation, new ways of doing things (Fern Fort University, 2020). Since the initial investment is comparatively lesser, the barriers to start a manufacturing facility is also low. Supply side economies of scale are high thus making it an interesting market for new entrants. Low brand loyalty and brand positioning among the clients makes it easy for new entrants in the market. However, the availability of skilled labour and extensive training for the existing man power, low economies of scale makes it difficult for new entrants to become a quick success. Still, with low switching costs, new brands can attract customers using lower prices, thus establishing a threat. Easy access to the distribution channels and option to sell online along with increase in demand side benefits of scale supports the new entrants. Further the lack of stringent government policies in the emerging field of chocolates and low anticipated incumbent response strategies make the industry more appealing to new entrants. \r\nB. Bargaining Power of Buyers – Low to Moderate\r\nThe bargaining power of buyers in the case of bean to bar brands in Coimbatore is low to moderate. The bean to bar chocolate is still considered a luxury product which is not purchased every day and the volume of purchase is also small.This means the influence of single buyer in the market is very low. Also, it is understood that the customer base who opted for these types of chocolates are diverse and have different agenda for the purchase. Quality is more than making a good product (Takeuchi and Quelch, 1983). Though the quality conscious clientele is willing to pay a premium for the good quality products, the cheaper alternatives available in the market relatively unhealthy can dictate the price of the bean to bar chocolates. A customer would not mind switching back to the alternative segment if they find the bean to bar chocolates not value for money. As the product mix of this segment has not still peaked or diverse, switching of brands only becomes more of a mere possibility and not certainty given the favorable factors. Service and knowledge sharing for the products along with ethical values are additional factors which can make a buyer remain interested towards a brand. Consistent reinvention and attractive packaging along with easy access would make the buyer profitability higher. On the other hand, the backward integration of the chain is onerous due to the factors like availability of skilled and trained labour, higher production time etc., \r\nC. Bargaining Power of Suppliers – Low to Moderate\r\nAs of December 2018, companies such as Lindt, Mondelez, Ferrero, Hershey’s, and Nestle can trace less than 30% of their cacao back to the farmer. This lack of transparency allows for child slave labour and other unethical and unsustainable practices to occur – certification or not (Cacao Magazine, 2019). Suppliers exert low to moderate pressure on bean to bar chocolates brands in Coimbatore. Bean-to-Bar makers have a better control over their supply chain from directly sourcing the cacao beans from handpicked farmers to some of them even having their own farms. This helps them deal directly with the farmers excluding the mediators or middlemen. Though there is a moderate risk of supplier’s forward integration, the need for investment and restricted availability of skilled specialty labor makes it difficult for a new entrant to enter the market. From the discussion with various cacao farmers, it is evident that the technology transfer options available and practiced by the chocolate makers for improving the bean quality encourages them to work with the chocolate makers. The price offered by bean to bar makers to the cacao farmers is higher than the price offered by the other commercial brands thus reducing the risk of switching by the suppliers. The often exciting supply chain management of the bean to bar chocolate makers has reduced the bargaining power of suppliers. But the power of suppliers is still moderate as the substitute is not available therefore increasing the importance of cacao bean suppliers to the bean to bar industry.\r\nD. Threat of substitutes – Moderate to High\r\nThe major threat for bean to bar chocolates in Coimbatore city are the substitutes that include commercial chocolates, homemade chocolates, traditional sweets and confectionary. The bean to bar chocolates are often expensive and unless the consumer understands the product in detail, the substitutes are often opted due to buyer price sensitivity. Bean to bar chocolates are healthier with natural ingredients and minimal processing, artisanal gourmet chocolates taste better because of locally sourced raw material and a burst of natural flavours (Agarwal, 2021) when compared to the other substitutes which reduces the threat considerably. The gifting market which is also a major contributor for sales of bean to bar chocolate is often under threat of substitutes with low switching cost. The threat of substitute is moderate to high for bean to bar chocolate brands in Coimbatore city as the value proposition of the substitute products are often unique and caters to needs to different consumer segments. \r\nE. Competitive Rivalry within an Industry – Moderate to High\r\nThe consumer awareness of bean to bar chocolates was found to be very low. It was also evident from the results that, though the three brands are well established in the city, word-of-mouth plays a prominent role in the marketing. Quality of ingredients, innovative packaging, easy accessibility, product based differentiation and price are the major factors which influenced the consumer in choosing a brand between Soklet, Chitra’m and M&N chocolates. Recently there’s also been major growth in the value-added sector of craft chocolate (Max, 2021). The switching cost between the brands is very low as the product differentiation is minimal, thus making the competition between the existing brands very intense. The constant need for reinvention and high strategic stakes makes the rivalry between the brands more complex. There is also enough space for new players with novel and unique ideas which adds to the intensity of competition. In spite of the strong rivalry, the industry is growing and potential consumer base is high thus reducing the intensity of competition. Based on these factors the competition between bean to bar chocolate brands in Coimbatore remains moderate to high.\r\nThe Soklet brand has taken the initiative to have a strong distribution network within the city including airport stall and other places helping in better visibility. The packaging and the tree to bar concept with a good supply chain are their strengths in the market. M&N with their physical store provides an experience for consumer to choose from a huge collection of chocolates suiting the purpose of health, gifting etc. Chitra’m being availablein Café Infusions, a chocolate themed store, and few retail outlets have also concentrated on their customer interaction and experience to remain strong in the market. \r\n \r\n\r\n\r\n\r\nThe industry has three brands that are equally balanced with steady growth, high storage and fixed costs with high exit barriers resulting in need for improvement in quality, price differentiation, new product line and innovative advertising to be able to compete in the highly competitive bean to bar chocolate segment in Coimbatore. The abstract details of relative market competitiveness of bean to bar chocolates in Coimbatore is presented in Table 1.\r\n','Arun Viswanathan S.K.1, Mahendran, K.2*, Moghana Lavanya S.3 and Sowmiyaa, S.4 (2021). An Insight into Market competitiveness of Bean to Bar Chocolate in Coimbatore City – Application of Porter’s Five Forces Model. Biological Forum – An International Journal 13(1): 495-499. '),(4792,'92','Aliyar Series – A New Series for Exploration in Pollachi Taluk, Coimbatore Dt., Tamil Nadu','C. Sudhalakshmi* and R. Kumaraperumal','97 Aliyar Series – A New Series for Exploration in Pollachi Taluk, Coimbatore Dt., Tamil Nadu C. Sudhalakshmi 849.pdf','',4,'Soil series is the fundamental unit of soil classification. Achieving potential yields of crops relies on the native soil fertility status of the land which is tailored through appropriate crop management options developed for the soil series and cannot be generalized across pedons. Identification of new soil series and developing series specific management strategies is an essential pre requisite of precision agriculture. Three profiles were explored at Coconut Research Station, Aliyarnagar, the morphological and physico-chemical properties were assessed and correlated with the related soil series. Since the profiles at Aliyarnagar were diagnostically different from the already designated red calcareous soil series viz., Tulukkanur, Palladam and Palathurai series in attributes like depth, soil colour, texture, land use and vegetation, a new soil series viz., Aliyar (Alr) series was denominated. Crop management options viz., crop selection, irrigation and nutrient management can be modified to suit the pedon characteristics of the identified series and can be further followed by Soil Survey and Land Use Organization, Tamil Nadu.','Aliyar, Palathurai, Palladam, Soil series, Tulukkanur. ','During detailed soil survey, a new soils series was identified at Coconut Research Station, Aliyarnagar called Aliyar (Alr) Series which is diagnostically different from that of the already existing red calcareous soil series viz., Palladam series, Palathurai series and Tulukkanur series in attributes like soil colour, depth, texture and land use. The depth of the denominated soil series is 150+cm with strong to violent effervescence in the horizons when tested with dilute Hydrochloric acid indicating that it is intensely calcareous. Coconut, groundnut, cocoa, nutmeg and vegetables are the predominant crops of the series because of the sandy texture of the soil. The new series warrants specific management practices for achieving higher productivity in crops. The information will help the officials of the Soil Survey and Land Use Organization, Government of Tamil Nadu for further follow up during survey and for undertaking appropriate land use planning. ','Agriculture in India is the pivotal sector for ensuring food and nutritional security to the ever burgeoning population even in the heightened pandemic situation. Sarkar, (2011) has cautioned that Indian Agriculture is presently at cross roads with vast untapped potential on one hand and the dismal situation arising from sluggish agricultural growth, degradation and pollution of natural resources, decline in nutrient and water use efficiencies, deceleration of total factor productivity together with the disastrous impact of climate change. Soil is the most vital and precious natural resource for the existence of mankind and the pressure on this vital resource has increased to such an extent that the relationship between the living beings and soil has become critical (Sarkar, 2005). Soil is not only the medium for agriculture but also a component of ecological processes and cycles, a repository for waste disposal, an ameliorator of water quality, medium for bioremediation and engineering uses (Miller, 1993). Soil survey, incorporating field sampling, laboratory analysis, data processing, and mapping, aims to classify soil types and soil attributes within a specific area and produce soil maps as the ultimate products (McBratney et al., 2003). Ideally, different parent materials within a solum can be distinguished by lithologic discontinuities that are identifiable in the field and confirmed in the laboratory (Schaetzl, 1998). In soil classification, soil series is the most detailed hierarchial category which is practically independent from the classification system to which they refer (Boulaine, 1980). Each soil series represents a specific soil class with a unique set of physical, chemical and mineralogical characteristics and is the most homogenous category in taxonomy. \r\nThe soil series concept was developed more than 100 years ago and serves as the fundamental mapping concept. Accurately identifying the soil map unit component at a specific point-location within a landscape is critical for implementing sustainable soil management (Maynard et al., 2020). There is close association between soil series and land use and is an essential vehicle for transferring soil information and knowledge from one place to another. It is the category of soil classification upon which the crop production perspectives are planned and executed. Hence identification, demarcation and denomination of new soil series based on differentia from the already existing soil series can aid in better land management and resource utilization. The paper focuses on a new soil series identified during soil survey at Coconut Research Station, Aliyarnagar which is diagnostically different from that of the other related calcareous soil series.\r\nMATERIAL AND METHODS\r\nCoconut Research Station, Aliyarnagar of Tamil Nadu Agricultural University is located near Western Ghats (10o 29′ 499″N and 76o 58′ 821″ E) in the Western Zone of Coimbatore district of Tamil Nadu, at an elevation of 260 m above MSL with an undulating topography. Detailed survey was undertaken at the station to bring out the spatial variability in distribution of macro and micronutrients across the farm. The station with an acreage of 22 hectares is divided into three blocks viz., A, B and C for the ease of management. Three master profiles were explored (Bhatttacharya et al., 2009) one each in the three blocks, soil samples of each horizon of representative pedons were collected, processed and analyzed for important physico chemical properties employing standard procedures (Sarma et al., 1987). Soil texture was determined by feel method and colour by employing Munsell Colour Chart. \r\nSoil series was characterized considering the properties like position in the landscape, slope, sequence of horizons, structure, colour, depth, drainage, permeability, mineralogy, cation exchange capacity and soil fertility parameters across the horizons. Correlation of the properties of the explored profiles was done with that of the related soil series of the region. Based on the deviation of the soil profile characteristics from the already existing soil series, a new series was denominated.\r\nRESULTS AND DISCUSSION\r\nSoil classification is an important element of soil research and data processing, serving mainly as an organizational framework for the description of soil properties (Shi et al., 2010; Gray et al., 2011; Pásztor et al., 2012)\r\nA. Morphological properties\r\nThe morphological characteristics of the horizons of the profiles explored are depicted in Fig. 1. The texture of the surface horizons in profiles 1 and 3 were sandy clay loam while that of the sub surface horizons was sandy loam in profile 1. In profile 2, the texture was loamy sand in the surface horizons (Ap – Bw1) and sandy clay loam beneath. In profile 3, sandy clay texture was noticed in Bt1 horizon and sandy texture in Bt2 horizon. Colour of the horizons across the profiles was 7.5 YR hue with varying value and chroma. All the three profiles were red calcareous in nature with strong effervescence (s) in the surface horizons of profiles 1 and 3 and violent effervescence in the subsurface horizons. The boundaries of the horizons were either clear smooth (CS) of gradual smooth (GS) as depicted in the Fig. 1 and the representative pedon in Fig. 2.\r\nB. Chemical properties\r\nThe chemical properties of the horizons of the profiles are presented in Table 1. pH of the horizons ranged from 7.42 to 8.80 which is mainly attributed to the calcareous nature of the soil (Sudhalakshmi et al., 2017). Electrical conductivity of the soil samples ranged from 0.04 to 0.13 dSm-1. Relatively low electrical conductivity can be corroborated to the sandy texture of the soil. Cation exchange capacity gives an insight into the fertility and nutrient retention capacity of soil. Cation exchange capacity (CEC) of the soil ranged from 3.40 to 13.2 cmol (p+) kg-1 and the low CEC is due to the predominance of sandy nature in the soil. The results are in close compliance with Dai Yunan et al. (2018) who established positive correlation between the contents of clay, silt and organic matter and negative correlation with sand to cation exchange capacity of soil. Base saturation percentage varied from 51.2 to 79.2 % and the values were higher in the horizons predominant in clay. The contents of KMnO4- N varied from 97.2 to 250.9 kg ha-1, Olsen – P from 4.8 to 16.1 and NNNH4OAc-K from 105.6 to 198 kg ha-1. Phosphorus fixation is a combination of surface adsorption on clay and lime surfaces and precipitation of calcium phosphate minerals (Leytem and Mikkelson, 2005). Thus in the present survey low availability of phosphorus was noticed in the calcareous horizons across the profiles. Organic carbon content in the horizons varied from 0.90 to 6.90 g kg-1 and hot water soluble boron from 11.8 to 15.6 ppm.\r\nC. Competing Soil Series and Differentia\r\nCompeting red calcareous soil series are Palladam series, Tulukkanur series and Palathurai series. The profile characteristics of the series are presented in Tables 2, 3 and 4. Colour of Tulukkanur soil series is 5 YR 4/4 – 5.0 YR 4/6, Palladam series is 5 YR in the surface and 2.5 YR in the subsurface horizons and that of Palathurai series is 7.5 YR in the surface and 5 YR in the sub surface horizons. The newly identified soil series at Aliyarnagar has 7.5 YR hue with varying value and chroma across horizons. Palladam soil series consists of shallow depth interbanded with CaCO3, the depth of Tulukkanur series is 85 cm and that of Palathurai series is 120 cm. The new soil series at Aliyarnagar has 150+ cm permitting cultivation of perennial and deep rooted crops. Taxonomic classification of Palladam series is Loamy, mixed, isohyperthermic, noncalcareous, Lithic Haplustepts, Tulukkanur series is Coarse-loamy, mixed, isohyperthermic, calcareous, Typic Haplustepts and Palathurai series is Fine-loamy, mixed, isohyperthermic, calcareous, Typic Haplustalfs. The newly identified series is taxonomically classified as Coarse-loamy mixed, calcareous isohyperthermic, Fluventic Haplustepts. \r\nD. Parent material and Texture\r\nThe major and predominant geological formations of Aliyar are of granite gneiss, biotite gneiss and charnockite in general. Massive gneissic outcrops are observed along the Aliyar river. The foliation trend is north-east to south-west with a south easterly dip. The thickness of the weathered zone ranges from 3 to 4 meters in general. Texture of Tulukkanur and Palathurai soil series is loamy and Palladam series is gravelly clay /loamy whilst the newly identified series is predominantly sandy textured. \r\nE. Natural Vegetation\r\nCrops like soghum and green gram are being cultivated in Tulukkanur series while coconut, cotton and pearl millet find a place in Palathurai series. In Palladam series, coconut, vegetables and onion are being widely cultivated. Natural vegetation noticed in Tulukkanur series are Cassia auriculata, Borassus flabellifer, in Palathurai series, Azadirachta indica, Agave and in Palladam series, Azadirachta indica, Calotropis sp, Borassus flabellifer, Lantana sp, Tamarindus indica and Cyanodon dactylon are observed In Aliyar series, coconut, cocoa, nutmeg, groundnut and vegetables are the principal crops and the natural vegetation include Azadirachta indica, Tamarindus indica and Acacia sp. \r\n','C. Sudhalakshmi* and R. Kumaraperumal (2021). Aliyar Series – A New Series for Exploration in Pollachi Taluk, Coimbatore Dt., Tamil Nadu. Biological Forum – An International Journal 13(1): 684-689. '),(4793,'100','Determinants of Farmers’ indebtedness and Promptness of Repayment in Andhra Pradesh','S. Amrutha and I.V.Y. Rama Rao','69 Determinants of Farmers’ indebtedness and Promptness of Repayment in Andhra Pradesh 966-S.pdf','',4,'Now-a-days natural calamities like floods; other biological and management factors are having significant role in affecting the agriculture production prospects, thereby, making the farmers to end up in a debt trap. This led to some of the farmers to commit suicides in many states including agro-potential states like Andhra Pradesh. Several assessing have been taken up regarding the performance of different financial institutions. But, the economic analysis of farmers’ indebtedness, factors responsible, impact of Loan waiver scheme etc., is of immediate concern. \r\nNorth coastal districts (NCD) in Andhra Pradesh, were selected based on the highest debt ratio among the marginal and small farmers. The present study taken-up to explore the determinants of farmer-borrowers’ indebtedness in three North Coastal Districts (NCD) of Andhra Pradesh viz., Srikakulam, Vizianagaram and Visakhapatnam. District Cooperative Central Bank (DCCB) and State Bank of India (SBI) were selected for cooperative and commercial banks categories. Two branches were selected from the respective institutions. From each branch ten farmer-borrowers each were selected for who is benefited and not benefited from Loan waiver scheme. In toto sample size was 240. Analytical tools like Multiple Linear Regression (MLR) with dummy variable and Response Priority Index (RPI) were employed.\r\nResults revealed that significance of dummy variable for loan waiver scheme shows that there is significant difference between beneficiaries and non-beneficiaries. The 69 per cent (R2 = 0.69) of variability in the indebtedness was explained by the independent variables taken into account viz., land holding, net returns, family expenditure, farming experience and education level. Land holding, Major constraint in repayment of loan was adverse climatic conditions for both beneficiaries and non-beneficiaries.\r\n','Farmers’ indebtedness, North Coastal Districts (NCD), Andhra Pradesh.','Educational level and farm experience had positive associations with repayment of debt; there is greater need to educate the farmers on skills of crop rising to improve the productivity. \r\n— Family expenditure and farming experience were found significant; the policy makers should take into consideration of these factors to formulate the policies in alleviating the debt. \r\n— Adverse climatic factor was the major factor in non-repayment of debt, government should make measure to speed-up the compensation mechanism, as all crop loanees are insured.\r\n','There was one saying that “Indian farmer is born in credit, lives in credit and dies in credit”. This situation is owing to resource poorness of the farmers. Farm finance plays a vital role in the agro-socio-economic development of the country both at micro-level and macro level. After independence in India a number of institutions have been promoted to provide farm finance. High interest rate for agriculture credit has caused serious exploitation resulting in farmers’ indebtedness. However, the same credit may become catastrophic when it is employed for non-productive purposes other than for agricultural production. A critical examination by (Patel, 2009) revealed that, 76.1 per cent earners borrowed for non-productive purposes as against 23.9 per cent borrowing for productive purposes. Share of non-institutional borrowers was 68.4 per cent as against 31.6 per cent institutional borrowers at national level. It then gives rise to a situation known as indebtedness, which has become one of the dreaded tribulations in the life of households living in rural India.\r\nThe major reasons for the persistence of indebtedness among the rural farmers in India are excessive dependency of agriculture on vagaries of monsoons, continuous mounting of cost of cultivation, distress sale, involvement of large number of middle men, excessive dependency of farmers on non-institutional credit sources, diversion of crop loans and term loans towards unproductive purposes. A critical examination by (Radhakrishna, 2007) committee revealed that, about half of them were in debt and three-fifths of their debt was owned to institutions sources. A major share of farmer’s debt (more than 60%) was for productive purposes. Debt trap is the main cause of committing suicides which tightened up because of the agrarian crisis and inaccessibility of institutional credit. Thus, the farmers have to depend on non-institutional credit even though the rate of interest is high (Vidyasagar and Chandra, 2004). NSSO (2012-13) survey results reveal that nearly 52% agricultural households are indebted in the country and the levels of debt are as high as 93% in Andhra Pradesh and 89% in Telangana (2012-13).\r\nBorrowings and indebtedness are the two sides of the same coin, while borrowing is the cause, indebtedness is the result. It is important that, increase in borrowings need not increase the indebtedness on the part of farmers, unless persistent problems affect the agricultural prospects. Informal credit had certainly declined as a percentage of total debt and simultaneously the institutional credit flow of agriculture has increased over the years with the institutional agencies venturing into the rural areas (Thejeswini et al., 2014).\r\nIndebtedness has various facets. As per NSSO (2005), out of 89.4 million farmer households at All India level, 48.6% were indebted. Among the states percentage of indebted farmer’s households were highest in Andhra Pradesh (82%), followed by Tamil Nadu (74.5%), Punjab (65.4%), Kerala (64.4%), Karnataka (61.6%) and Maharashtra (54.8%) etc. States with very low proportion of indebted farmer households were Meghalaya, Arunachal Pradesh and Uttaranchal. So, debt is not problem itself, improper utilization of credit is the problem. \r\nThe aim of the study is “To identify the factors responsible for of farmers’ indebtedness and constraints in repayment of loans”. \r\nThe present investigation has been conducted to explore causes and possible remedies of farmers’ indebtedness, with the following specific objectives;\r\n1. To assess the socio-economic profile of debit-farmers\r\n2. To analyse the factors responsible for indebtedness of farmers\r\n3. To estimate the constraints faced by farmers in repayment of loans. \r\nA. Socio-economic profile\r\nTo have a clear idea on the economic condition of household and to arrive at logical conclusions of results in social sciences, it is mandatory to analyze the socio-economic features of sample households like age, education, farm size, assets, experience in farming practice, etc., as given below;\r\n(i) Land holding pattern: A close perusal of data in Annexure-1, indicates that, the average size of land holding varied with 1.10 ha in debt waived, 2.96 ha in debt relieved and 6.53 ha in prompt paid borrowers with an overall average of 4.28 ha for the pooled farmers. The total operational holding varied from 66 ha of debt waived, 177 ha of debt relieved and 783.6 ha of prompt paid borrowers with an overall operational holding of 1027.2 ha. It shows that, size of land holding and promptness in repayment of loan are in tandem.\r\nIt is further observed that the average area under paddy crop had a direct relationship with the farm size as it was in the order of 0.51, 0.85 and 0.64 hectares for debt waived, debt relieved and prompt paid borrowers respectively. But, the average area under paddy to average operational farm holding area was more in debt waived (46.36%) followed by debt relieved (28.72%) and prompt paid (9.80%). It shows that as the share of paddy in operational holding is increasing, the promptness of the repayment of debt is decreasing owing to less net returns from the paddy cultivation.\r\nIn the study area, some farmers have taken the land as leased-in land. The average leased-in land was 0.02 ha for debt waived, 0.30 ha for debt relieved and 2.18 ha for prompt paid borrowers and 1.17 ha for the pooled farmers. In the study area none of the sample farmers has leased-out their land.\r\n \r\nAnnexure-1: Average size of land holding of sample farmers.\r\nS.No. Particulars Debt waived Debt relieved Prompt paid Pooled\r\n1. No. of farmers 60 60 120 240\r\n2. Average Owned land (ha.) 1.08 2.66 4.35 3.11\r\n3. Average Leased-in land (ha.) 0.02 0.30 2.18 1.17\r\n4. Average Leased-out land (ha.) 0 0 0 0\r\n5. Total operational holding (ha.) 66 177.6 783.6 1,027.2\r\n6. Total Paddy area (ha.) 30.4 51.2 77.0 158.7\r\n7. Average operational farm holding (ha.) 1.10 2.96 6.53 4.28\r\n8. Average area under paddy (ha.) 0.51 0.85 0.64 0.66\r\n9. Average area under paddy to average operational holding (%) 46.36 28.71 9.80 15.42\r\n \r\n(ii) Family Size and Composition: Man power is the most important resource in agriculture; however larger family size demands more money for their livelihoods. The details pertaining to the average family size and its composition of the sample farmers were studied (Annexure-2). The average family size was 3.86 at pooled level. The informal discussion held with the sample farmers revealed that, both men and women farmers actively participate in performing agricultural operations.\r\nIn pooled borrowers, out of 928 members, children are 476 (51.30%), followed by men and women equally with 24.35%. In beneficiary farmers, children (51.52%) are more, followed by women (24.68%) and men (23.81%) with average family size of 3.84. Similarly, in non-beneficiary farmers also, children (51.07%) are\r\nmore, followed by men (24.89%) and women (24.03%) with average family size of 3.88.\r\nIn case of debt waived borrowers out of 230 members, children (52.17%) occupy more in number, followed by men (24.35%) and women (23.48%) with average family size 3.82. In debt relieved borrowers, children (50.86%) are more, followed by women (25.86%) and men (23.28%) with average family size of 3.86 respectively.\r\nIt is inferred from above results that, whether beneficiary (51.52%) or non-beneficiary (51.07%), majority of persons in the farmers were children. Further, as the men or women in respective categories of sample farmers are less than the sample size infers that sample size constitute of both genders.\r\n \r\nAnnexure-2: Average family size and composition of sample farmers.\r\nS.No. Particulars Beneficiaries (n=120) Non-beneficiaries\r\n(Prompt paid borrowers)\r\n(n=120) Pooled borrowers\r\n(n=240)\r\n Debt waived borrowers\r\n(n=60) Debt relieved borrowers (n=60) Total\r\n \r\n1. Men 56 (24.35) 54 (23.28) 110 (23.81) 116 (24.89) 226 (24.35)\r\n2. Women 54 (23.48) 60 (25.86) 114 (24.68) 112 (24.03) 226 (24.35)\r\n3. Children 120 (52.17) 118 (50.86) 238 (51.52) 238 (51.07) 238 (51.30)\r\n4. Total 230 (100) 232 (100) 462 (100) 466 (100) 464 (100)\r\n5. Average family size 3.82 3.86 3.84 3.88 3.86\r\n Note: Figures in parentheses indicate percentage to total \r\n \r\n(iii) Literacy level: Based on the literacy level Sample farmers were categorized into four groups viz., Illiterates, primary level of education, secondary level of education and higher education (Annexure-3). In pooled borrowers, majority of the sample farmers were educated only up to secondary level of education with 33%, followed by the higher per cent of illiterates (26.67%) in all the three categories of pooled farmers.\r\n Beneficiary farmers account high in case of secondary level of education with 35 %, followed by illiterates (30%), primary level of education (21.67%) and higher education (13.33%). In Non-beneficiaries farmers, 31.67 % had secondary level of education, followed by primary level of education (25%), illiterates (23.33%) and higher education (20%).\r\nComing to beneficiary farmers, in case of debt waived borrowers, 50.00 per cent had secondary level of education, followed by illiterates (30%), primary level of education (10%) and higher education (10%). With regards to debt relieved borrowers, 33.33 per cent farmers had primary level of education, followed by illiterates (30%), secondary level of education (20.00%) and higher education (16.67%) respectively.\r\nIt is concluded that, whether beneficiary (35.00%) or non-beneficiary (31.67%), majority of the farmers were educated up to secondary level of education.\r\n \r\n\r\nAnnexure-3: Literacy level of the sample farmers.\r\nS.No. Level of education Beneficiaries\r\n(n=120) Non-beneficiaries\r\n(Prompt paid borrowers)\r\n(n=120) Pooled borrowers (n=240)\r\n Debt waived borrowers (n=60) Debt relieved borrowers (n=60) Total \r\n1. Illiterates 18 (30.00) 18 (30.00) 36 (30.00) 28 (23.33) 64 (26.67)\r\n2. Primary (0-5) 6 (10.00) 20 (33.33) 26 (21.67) 30 (25.00) 56 (23.33)\r\n3. Secondary (6-10) 30 (50.00) 12 (20.00) 42 (35.00) 38 (31.67) 80 (33.33)\r\n4. Higher (10+2) 6 (10.00) 10 (16.67) 16 (13.33) 24 (20.00) 40 (16.67)\r\n Total 60 (100) 60 (100) 120 (100) 120 (100) 240 (100)\r\n Note: Figures in parentheses indicate percentage to total\r\n \r\n(iv) Age of the sample Farmers: Sample farmers according to age wise are classified into three groups. They are up to 30 years, 30-45 years and above 45 years groups. The distribution of sample farmers according to age group was shown in Annexure-4. Among the sample farmers of pooled borrowers group, maximum were in the age group of 30-45 (40.83 %), followed by age group above 45 (40.00%) and below 30 (19.17 %).\r\nIn Beneficiary farmers; age group of 30-45 (40.67%) were maximum, followed by age group above 45(38.33%) and below 30 (15.00 %). In non-beneficiaries farmers, maximum were in the age group of above 45 (41.67%), followed by age group of 30- 45 (35%), and below 30 (23.33%).\r\nBeneficiary farmers constitute debt waived and debt relieved borrowers. In case of debt waived borrowers, age group of 30-45 were maximum (53.33%), followed by above 45 (33.33%) and below 30 (13.33%). With reference to debt relieved borrowers, maximum were in the age group above 45 (43.33 %), followed by 30- 45 (40.00%) and below 30 (16.67 %) respectively.\r\nAbove results shows that more aged group farmers are in non-beneficiary category, which infers that as the farmers’ age increases the promptness of the repayment of debt is increasing.\r\n \r\nAnnexure-4: Age of the sample farmers.\r\nS.No. Particulars Beneficiaries\r\n(n=120) Non-beneficiaries (Prompt paid borrowers) (n=120) Pooled borrowers\r\n(n=240)\r\n Debt waived borrowers\r\n(n=60) Debt relieved borrowers (n=60) Total \r\n1. Up to 30 years 8 (13.33) 10 (16.67) 18 (15.00) 28 (23.33) 46 (19.17)\r\n2. 30 years - 45 years 32 (53.33) 24 (40.00) 56 (46.67) 42 (35.00) 98 (40.83)\r\n3. Above 45 years 20 (33.33) 26 (43.33) 46 (38.33) 50 (41.67) 96 (40.00)\r\n4. Total 60 (100) 60 (100) 120 (100) 120 (100) 240 (100)\r\n Note: Figures in parentheses indicate percentage to total \r\n \r\n(v) Farming experience: The process of gaining knowledge and skill is termed as experience. It is a measure of the time period an individual farmer-borrower was involved in cultivation. It is commonly known that the more the number of years in cultivation, the more knowledge and skills they gain. Farming experience influences individual perceptions and understanding of the management requirements and it is also an important factor determining the factors responsible for indebtedness. Farming experience was measured in terms of number of years in cultivation practices. They were grouped into three groups viz., below 20 years, 20-30 years and above 30 years. Results were placed in Annexure-5. It is observed from table that, the distribution of sample farmers of pooled borrowers group, maximum were in the age group below 20 (39.17%), followed by above 30 (33.33%) and between 20- 30 (27.50 %). \r\nIn beneficiary farmers, highest borrowers were with farm experience age group below 20 years (41.67 %), followed by between 20-30 years (31.67%) and above 30 years (26.67%). Non-beneficiaries farmers, was maximum in the above 30 years of experience (40.00%), followed by below 20 years (36.67%) and between 20-30 years (23.33%).\r\nComing to constituents of beneficiary farmers, in case of debt waived borrowers, farming experience between 20-30 years (43.33%) were more, followed by below 20 years (33.33%) and above 30 years (23.33%). With reference to debt relieved borrowers, maximum in the farming experience below 20 years were (50.00%), followed by above 30 years (30.00%) and between 20-30 years (20.00%) respectively.\r\nThe above results reveal that beneficiaries in comparison with non-beneficiaries are in-experienced. In other words, experience person had promptness in repayment of debt. This may be owing to learned and seasoned accrual of more profits from crops.\r\n \r\nAnnexure-5: Average farming experience of sample farmers.\r\nS.No. Particulars Beneficiaries (n=120) Non-beneficiaries\r\n(Prompt paid borrowers) (n=120) Pooled borrowers (n=240)\r\n Debt waived borrowers (n=60) Debt relieved borrowers (n=60) Total\r\n \r\n1. Up to 20 years 20 (33.33) 30 (50.00) 50 (41.67) 44 (36.67) 94 (39.17)\r\n2. 20 years -30years 26 (43.33) 12 (20.00) 38 (31.67) 28 (23.33) 66 (27.50)\r\n3. Above 30 years 14 (23.33) 18 (30.00) 32 (26.67) 48 (40.00) 80 (33.33)\r\n4. Total 60 (100) 60 (100) 120 (100) 120 (100) 240 (100)\r\n Note: Figures in parentheses indicate percentage to total\r\n \r\nMATERIAL AND METHODS\r\nAs the percentage of indebtedness among farmer’s households were highest in Andhra Pradesh (82% of total indebted farmers) as reported in (NSSO, 2005). Hence present study taken up in Andhra Pradesh. In Andhra Pradesh, North Coastal Districts (NCD) are bestowed with different irrigation sources like tanks, canals, wells etc., for cultivating a wide range of crops under different agro-eco situations. However, erratic distribution of rainfall and sometimes prolonged droughts play major havoc with the farmers. This resulted in continuous failure of crops in the district, thereby, leading to mounting of debts to the farmers. On the other hand, the drastic increase in prices of inputs and services outweighs the price rise of output for many agricultural crops, thereby making the agribusiness less remunerative. This further aggravated the problem of indebtedness in these districts. Considering the pathetic situation of the farmers in view of the mounting debts both in institutional and non- institutional sources, the Government has enacted Agricultural Debt Waiver and Debt Relief Scheme (ADWDRS) in the year 2008. The broad feature of the scheme includes marginal, small and other farmers. Marginal farmer, defined as cultivating agricultural land up to 1 hectare or 2.5 acres and small farmer is defined as cultivating between 1 hectare and 2 hectares i.e. less than 5 acres, will get full debt waiver of their short term crop loans as well as all the overdue instalments on the investment credit. The other farmers, i.e. owing more than 5 acres or more than 2 hectares, will get One Time Settlement (OTS) relief. \r\nAndhra Pradesh was purposively selected for the study. Average land holding and Bank branches outreach were placed in Appendix 1 and 2 respectively. North coastal districts (NCD) were selected based on the highest debt ratio among the marginal and small farmers. NCD comprises of three districts viz., Srikakulam, Vizianagaram and Visakhapatnam. All districts were taken into account for primary data collection during 2017-18. Primary data were collected through personal interview method with the help of pretested schedule. From the farmer-borrowers, useful information pertaining to socio-economic aspects, sources of credit disbursement, magnitude of debt, reasons for indebtedness, benefits realized by the execution of ADWDRS (Agricultural Debt Waiver and Debt Relief Scheme) by the Government etc., were studied. A brief description of selected districts is given below: \r\nSrikakulam : It is spread over 5.8 lakh ha with 3.21 lakh ha (55.5%) net cultivated area in which 2.05 lakh ha (63.8 %) was under paddy cultivation, rainfall was 825.3 mm and 48.9 per cent of cultivable area was under assured irrigation. \r\nVizianagaram : It is spread over 6.5 lakh ha with 3.01 lakh ha (46.5%) net cultivated area in which 1.31 lakh ha (43.19 %) was under paddy cultivation, rainfall was 906.8 mm and 43.6 per cent of cultivable area was under assured irrigation. \r\nVisakhapatnam : It is spread over 11.2 lakh ha with 3.08 lakh ha (27.5%) net cultivated area in which 1.02 lakh ha (33.12 %) was under paddy cultivation, rainfall was 837.8 mm and 36.9 per cent of cultivable area was under assured irrigation.\r\n \r\nAppendix–1: Distribution of Land Holding in Andhra Pradesh.\r\nClassification\r\nof Holding Holding Area\r\n Nos. % of Total ha. % to Total\r\nMarginal (<=1 ha ) 5,904,045 69.26% 23,36,400 29.19%\r\nSmall (> 1 to <=2 ha) 16,46,252 19.31% 23,34,034 29.16%\r\nSemi Medium ( > 2 to <=4 ha) 7,69,825 9.03% 20,19,629 25.23%\r\nMedium ( > 4 to <= 10 ha) 1,89,068 2.22% 10,38,314 12.97%\r\nLarge ( >10 ha ) 14,763 0.17% 2,76,150 3.45%\r\nTotal 85,23,953 100% 80,04,527 100%\r\nAppendix–2: Branch Network and Outreach (As on 31/03/2021).\r\nBank Type No. of\r\nBanks No. of Branches No. of Non-Formal\r\nAgencies Associated Per Branch Outreach\r\n Total Rural Semi urban Urban\r\n& Metro RMGs/\r\nJLGs SHGs BCs/\r\nBFs Population\r\n Households\r\n(\'000\')\r\nPublic Sector Banks 18 4,573 1,490 1,471 1,612 94,606 5,41,888 5,732 10,820 2,780\r\nPvt Sector Banks 22 1,223 194 404 625 34 6 1,554 40,470 10,400\r\nRegional Rural Banks 4 1,276 792 311 173 13,482 2,55,809 2,471 38,790 9,970\r\nOthers (AP Coperative\r\n&APSFC) 2 437 161 137 139 7,201 4,763 0 1,13,270 29,110\r\nGrand Total 46 7,509 2,637 2,323 2,549 1,15,323 8,02,466 9,757 6,590 1,690\r\n \r\nMajor sources of institutional credit were cooperative and commercial banks. Hence, District Cooperative Central Bank (DCCB) and State Bank of India (SBI) were selected for respective categories. Based on the extent of indebtedness criteria, two branches were selected from the respective institutions. For the selection of indebted farmer-borrowers, list of borrowers who were indebted were selected from the financial institutions. From each branch ten farmer-borrowers were selected who benefited from ADWDRS; were named as Beneficiaries. Beneficiary farmers constitute debt waived (entire eligible amount was waived) and debt relieved (rebate of 25% of the eligible amount) borrowers. Ten farmer-borrowers who are not benefited from ADWDRS were selected; were named as Non-beneficiaries. In toto sample size was 240. \r\nA. Tools and Techniques of Analysis\r\n(a) Multiple Linear Regression (MLR) Model: The following MLR model was employed to analyse the major factors responsible for farmers’ indebtedness.\r\nY= a +b1 LWS  b2 LANDHOLD  b3 NRb4 FAMEXPEND + b5 FARMEXPER+b6 EDU+\r\nWhere,\r\na = intercept term\r\nb1, b2, b3, b4, b5 and b6 are regression coefficients;\r\nSpecification of variables\r\nY = Magnitude of debt (Rupees)\r\nLWS = Dummy for loans waiver scheme (1 for beneficiary, 0 otherwise)\r\nLANDHOLD = Land holding (hectare)\r\nNR = Net returns (Rupees)\r\nFAMEXPEND = Family expenditure (Rupees)\r\nFARMEXPER = Farming experience (years)\r\nEDU = Education (Number of years of schooling)\r\n = Random Error term\r\n(ii) Response Priority Index (RPI): In the quantification of constraints expressed by the farmer, Response Priority Index (RPI) was adopted, which was developed by (Rao, 2011) as given below; \r\nKj=1 f ij. X [(k+1)-j]\r\n(RPI)i = I i=1 k j=1 f ij\r\nwhere,\r\n (RPI)i = Response priority index for ith constraint. \r\nKj=1 f ij. = Total number of responses for the ith constraint.\r\nfij = Number of responses for the jth priority of ith constraint (i=1, 2, 3,…...i ; j= 1, 2, 3,…..k).\r\nX [(k+1)-j] = Scores for jth priority.\r\nI i=1 k j=1 f ij = Total number of responses to all constraints\r\n k = Number of priorities.\r\nn i=1 k j=1 f ij = Total number of responses to all constraints\r\nThe larger the RPI value, the higher the weightage for the particular constraint.\r\nRESULTS AND DISCUSSION\r\nA. Determinants of Farmers’ Indebtedness \r\n(i) Pooled Farmers: For pooled farmers (Table 1), the coefficient of multiple determination (R2) was 0.69 which indicates that, 69 per cent of variability in the magnitude of debt was explained by the exploratory variables taken into account in the model viz., land holding (X2), net returns (X3), family expenditure (X4), farming experience (X5) and educational level (X6). Whereas, 31 per cent of variability was caused by the variables which are not taken into account. Significance of dummy variable for loan waiver scheme beneficiaries shows that beneficiaries of loan waiver scheme are significantly differ from non-beneficiaries. \r\n\r\nTable 1: Factors responsible for extent of indebtedness of pooled farmers.\r\n \r\n (n=240)\r\nS.No. Particulars Regression coefficients (b) P Value\r\n1. Intercept (a) 38435.07 (8016.01) 0.00**\r\n2. Dummy for loan waiver scheme beneficiary -45829.36 (3131.05) 0.00**\r\n3. Land Holding (ha.) 8807.63 (3253.28) 0.01*\r\n4. Net Returns (Rs/ ha.) 0.03 (0.04) 0.40 NS\r\n5. Family Expenditure (Rs.) 0.37 (0.10) 0.00**\r\n6. Farming Experience (Years) -385.97 (164.37) 0.02*\r\n7. Education Level (Number of years of schooling) 155.40 (341.98) 0.65 NS\r\nCoefficient of multiple determination (R2) 0.69\r\n Note: Figures in parenthesis indicate Standard errors\r\n NS= Non- significant, * P  0.05, ** P  0.01\r\n \r\nAmong the other independent variables, land holding, family expenditure and farming experience were found significant and others found non-significant viz., net returns and education level. Coming to individual variables which are significant viz., land holding, the regression coefficient was 8807.63 exerting significant influence on the magnitude of debt. In other words, an increase of 1 ha of land lead to increase in debt by Rs. 8807.63. It shows farmers are working at negative returns from land or investment motive. Every additional increase of one rupee spent on family expenditure resulting in increase of magnitude of debt by Rs. 0.37. With reference to farming experience, for every additional increase of one year experience in farming, magnitude of debt decrease by Rs. 385.97. That is why experienced farmers are prompt repayers of the debit. \r\nIn case of net returns, for every additional increase of one rupee would increase the debt by Rs. 0.03. This seems to be paradoxical. But, as inferred from land holding variable, the sample farmers can be said that out of their net returns they are spending more again on the land, which shows that they are investment motive. Net returns had no significant influence on magnitude of debt, hence null hypothesis was rejected. \r\n(ii) Beneficiary farmers: The coefficient of multiple determination (R2) was 0.64 for beneficiary farmers (Table 2), which indicates that 64 per cent of variability in the magnitude of debt was explained by the exploratory variables taken in to account viz., land holding (X1), net returns (X2), family expenditure (X3), farming experience (X4) and education level (X5). Whereas, 36 per cent of variability was caused by the variables which are not taken into account.\r\n \r\nTable 2: Factors responsible for extent of indebtedness of beneficiary farmers.\r\n (n=120)\r\nS.No Particulars Regression coefficients (b) P Value\r\n1. Intercept (a) -47252.55 (12127.22) 0.00**\r\n2. Land Holding (ha.) 5954.48 (5546.77) 0.29 NS\r\n3. Net Returns (Rs/ ha.) 0.07 (0.08) 0.36 NS\r\n4. Family Expenditure (Rs.) 1.22 (0.23) 0.00**\r\n5. Farming Experience (Years) -975.79 (253.35) 0.00**\r\n6. Education Level (Number of years of schooling) 341.85 (460.90) 0.46 NS\r\nCoefficient of multiple determination (R2) 0.64\r\n Note: Figures in parenthesis indicate Standard errors \r\n NS= Non- significant, * P  0.05, ** P  0.01\r\n \r\nAmong the other independent variables, family expenditure and farming experience are found significant and land holding, net returns and education level are found non-significant. Coming to individual variable; which are significant regression coefficient for family expenditure was 1.22 indicating that, for every additional increase of one rupee spent on family expenditure, magnitude of debt increased by Rs. 1.22. That seems to debt taken for cultivation of crop is deviated to non-productive purposes was in conformity with the results at national level where 76.1% of farmers borrowed for non-productive purposes as against 23.9% for productive purposes (Patel, 2009). With reference to farming experience, the regression coefficient was 975.79 which indicate that for every additional increase of one year experience in farming, magnitude of debt decreased by Rs. 975.79.\r\nThus, from the above analysis it is clear that, coefficient of multiple determination varied from 0.64 on beneficiary farmers to 0.69 to overall farmers, which shows variables taken in to account in the model had marginally higher influence on both beneficiaries and non-beneficiaries than only on the beneficiaries. In both models, family expenditure and farming experience were found significant, showing that these variables are more important than other variables. Further, magnitude was higher in beneficiary farmers. Hence, policy makers should take into consideration of family expenditure and farming experience to formulate the policies to alleviate the debt.\r\nBased on the above discussion, as the net returns found non-significant, the null hypothesis viz., net returns had significant influence on magnitude of debt, was rejected.\r\nThese findings were in non-conformity with the results obtained by (Sajjad and Chauhan, 2012; Sajjad et al., 2016), their studies revealed that level of net returns was one of the significant causal factors of indebtedness. Non-significant of land holding in the beneficiaries shows that debt is not much influenced by the income side rather than expenditure side (Family expenditure is significant).\r\n\r\nB. Constraints faced by Farmers in Repayment of Loans\r\n(i) Pooled Farmers: For the Table 3, it is clear that for pooled farmers, adverse climatic conditions was the major constraint with a score of 0.97 followed by rising cost of cultivation (0.75), higher rate of interest (0.70), small land holdings (0.63), low net income (0.62), in adequacy of institutional loan amount (0.57), rising family expenditure (0.56), non-remunerative market prices (0.48), corrupt practices of agents and bank officials (0.38) and cumbersome procedures (0.27). Thus, environmental factors had major role followed by economic and institutional factors in repayment of debt.\r\n \r\nTable 3: Response priority index of prioritization of constraints pertaining to repayment of loan by pooled farmers.\r\nS.No. Constraints RPI Rank\r\n1. Adverse climatic conditions 0.97 I\r\n2. Rising cost of cultivation 0.75 II\r\n3. High rate of interest 0.70 III\r\n4. Small land holdings 0.63 IV\r\n5. Low net income 0.62 V\r\n6. Inadequacy of institutional loan amount 0.57 VI\r\n7. Rising family expenditure 0.56 VII\r\n8. Non-remunerative market prices 0.48 VIII\r\n9. Corrupt practices of agents and bank officials 0.38 IX\r\n10. Cumbersome procedures 0.27 X\r\n \r\n(ii) Beneficiary farmers: Among the beneficiary farmers (Table 4), adverse climatic conditions was the major constraint for repayment of loan with a score of 0.97, followed by higher rate of interest (0.77), rising cost of cultivation (0.75), rising family expenditure (0.62), small land holdings (0.59), inadequacy of institutional loan amount (0.52), non remunerative market prices (0.47), corrupt practices of agents and bank officials (0.37), inability to use all the borrowed credit in production (0.25) and non-proximity of lending institutions (0.19). It is inferred from above that both economic, environmental factors dominating apart from administrative in repayment of loan.\r\n(iii) Non-Beneficiary farmers: Among the non-beneficiary farmers (Table 5); adverse climatic\r\nconditions was the major constraint (0.97), followed by rising cost of cultivation (0.74), small land holdings (0.66), low net income (0.62), inadequacy of institutional loan amount (0.61), rising family expenditure (0.51), non remunerative market prices (0.49), corrupt practices of agents and bank officials (0.40), cumbersome procedures, (0.30) and Non- proximity of lending institution (0.21) Thus, environment factors had played big role in non-repayment of the debt.\r\nFrom above discussion, it was concluded that, whether beneficiary and non-beneficiary farmers the adverse climatic conditions was the major constraint for repayment of loan.\r\n \r\nTable 4: Response priority index of prioritization of constraints pertaining to repayment of loan by Beneficiary farmers.\r\nS.No. Constraints RPI Rank\r\n1. Adverse climatic conditions 0.97 I\r\n2. High rate of interest 0.77 II\r\n3. Rising cost of cultivation 0.75 III\r\n4. Rising family expenditure 0.62 IV\r\n5. Small land holdings 0.59 V\r\n6. Inadequacy of institutional loan amount 0.52 VI\r\n7. Non-remunerative market prices 0.47 VII\r\n8. Corrupt practices of agents and bank officials 0.37 VIII\r\n9. Inability to use all the borrowed credit in production 0.25 IX\r\n10. Non- proximity of lending institutions 0.19 X\r\nTable 5: Response priority index of prioritization of constraints pertaining to repayment of loan by Non-beneficiary farmers.\r\nS.No. Constraints RPI Rank\r\n1. Adverse climatic conditions 0.97 I\r\n2. Rising cost of cultivation 0.74 II\r\n3. Small land holdings 0.66 III\r\n4. Low net income 0.62 IV\r\n5. Inadequacy of institutional loan amount 0.61 V\r\n6. Rising family expenditure 0.51 VI\r\n7. Non-remunerative market prices 0.49 VII\r\n8. Corrupt practices of agents and bank officials 0.40 VIII\r\n9. Cumbersome procedures 0.30 IX\r\n10. Non- proximity of lending institution 0.21 X\r\n \r\nThese findings were in conformity with the results obtained by (Rao et al. 2005 and Sale et al., 2005), where they revealed that crop failures due to natural calamities, low income, and non-remunerative prices are the major constraints for repayment of loan. \r\nFurther, present study results are in tune with the results obtained by (Kumar and Gambhir, 2012) that high rate of interest, lack of financial knowledge, cumbersome procedures, non- cooperative bank staff, lack of collateral security, fear factor about recovery process etc., were some common problems faced by the farmers in repayment of loan.\r\n\r\n','Amrutha, S. and Rao, I. V. Y. Rama (2021). Determinants of Farmers’ indebtedness and Promptness of Repayment in Andhra Pradesh. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 13(2): 500-506'),(4794,'125','Genetic Variability of Mung Bean for Yield and Yield Contributing Traits','Umesh Kumar Singh* and Lalji Bharti','17 Genetic Variability of Mung Bean for Yield and Yield Contributing Traits U.K. Singh.pdf','',1,'Production potential of mung bean is greatly reduced due to abiotic stress like drought. The\r\noptimum temperatures for germination of this crop is 25 to 30°C. The temperature is of key importance\r\nfor plant development, influencing the rate of photosynthesis, flowering and even pod setting or grain\r\nfilling. High temperature stress during germination and flowering and drought and salinity stresses during\r\nentire life cycle of crop cause considerable yield losses in mung bean. Global warming is posing a great\r\nthreat to the modern agriculture .Due to abrupt increase in environmental temperature; production of\r\nmajority of the crops including mung bean is adversely affected. This is aggravating the problem of\r\nfarming community increasing their demand for mung bean varieties resistant to various abiotic stresses.\r\nMany breeding programmes have been initiated to develop drought tolerant/ resistant varieties in mung\r\nbean. This experiment was conducted at Research Farm, Tirhut College of Agriculture, Dholi,\r\nMuzaffarpur, Bihar with 24 mung bean genotypes during the summer of 2019 in Randomized Block\r\nDesign with three replications and 16 characters. The Analysis of variance (ANOVA) was found highly\r\nsignificant variation among the genotypes for all the characters. The higher estimation of PCV and GCV\r\nboth were found in these characters viz., number of primary branches per plant, number of secondary\r\nbranches per plant, biological yield per plant (g), and grain yield per plant (g). The indicating lesser\r\ninfluence of environment in expression of the character hence selection for these traits may be effective.\r\nThe characters viz., number of primary branches per plant, number of secondary branches per plant,\r\ngrain yield per plant(g), biological yield per plant(g), harvest index(%), number of pods per plant, main\r\nshoot length(cm), 100-seed weight(g) and number of clusters per plant observed high heritability with high\r\ngenetic advance as percent of the mean. The genotypes SML 1825, VGG 17-040, MH 1451, Pusa M 19-42,\r\nand VGG 17-015 producing higher grain yield per plant are high yielding and well-performing genotypes.','Variation, heritability, genotypes.','The analysis of variance were highly significant for all\r\nthe characters under study, indicating the presence of\r\nconsiderable genetic variation in the experimental\r\nmaterial.\r\nWide ranges of variation (phenotypic & genotypic)\r\nwere observed in the experimental material for all the\r\ntraits under study. The phenotypic variance was found\r\nhigher than the corresponding genotypic variances for\r\nall the traits under study. This may be due to the non- genetic factor which played an important role in the\r\nSingh & Bharti Biological Forum – An International Journal 14(2): 91-96(2022) 95\r\nmanifestation of these characters.\r\nThe highest estimated of heritability in broad sense was\r\nrecorded for characters 100-seed weight(g), number of\r\nsecondary branches per plant, number of primary\r\nbranches per plant, main shoot length(cm), biological\r\nyield per plant(g), harvest index(%), days to 50%\r\nflowering, plant height(cm), days to first flowering,\r\ngrain yield per plant(g), days to maturity, number of\r\npods per plant, number of clusters per plant and number\r\nof grains per pod exhibited high heritability (>60%) was estimated. The moderate heritability (>30 to <60%) was\r\nestimated for pod length (cm) (56.60%) and number of\r\npods per cluster (34.40%) while the low heritability\r\n(<30%) was not estimated in any character.\r\nThe high genetic advance was observed for number of\r\nprimary branches per plant, number of secondary\r\nbranches per plant, biological yield per plant(g), grain\r\nyield per plant(g), harvest index(%), number of pods\r\nper plant, main shoot length(cm), 100-seed weight(g),\r\nand number of clusters per plant.\r\nThe high heritability coupled with high genetic advance\r\nfor primary branches per plant, number of secondary\r\nbranches per plant, biological yield per plant(g), grain\r\nyield per plant(g), harvest index(%), number of pods per\r\nplant, main shoot length(cm), 100-seed weight(g), and\r\nnumber of clusters per plant indicating may be presence\r\nof additive gene effects and selection will be effective\r\nfor such traits.\r\nIn the coming days world will witness more\r\nfluctuations in environmental condition will global warming and further aggravating problem in\r\nagricultural production. Due to depletion of water table\r\nand scanty rainfall during peak water requirement\r\nperiod, major crop growing areas face water scarcity\r\nwhich adversely affects overall crop production\r\ncreating drought like situation. Hence, future challenges\r\nin agricultural production will be to identify heat\r\ntolerant varieties for mitigating the abioic stresses.\r\nAcknowledgement. The authors gratefully acknowledge the\r\nDirector, AICRP (Mung bean) for constant encouragement\r\nand support. Authors are also thankful to the coordinator\r\nAICRP crops TCA Dholi, DRPCAU Pusa for providing the\r\nresearch facility and necessary support during the study. Conflict of Interest. None.\r\n','Aher, A. S., Lal, G. M., and Pandit, K. (2018). Genetic\r\ndiversity for yield and its components in blackgram\r\n(Vigna mungo L.). International Journal of Advanced\r\nBiotechnology Research, 8(3): 317-324. Allard, R. W. (1960). Principles of Plant Breeding, John\r\nWiley and Sons, Inc., New York.\r\nAzam, M. G., Hossain, M. A., Alam, M. S., Rahman, K. S.\r\nand Hossain, M. (2018). Genetic variability,\r\nheritability and correlation path analysis in mungbean\r\n(Vigna radiate L. Wilczek). Bangladesh Journal\r\nAgricultural Research, 43(3): 407-416. Burton, G. W. (1952). Quantitative inheritance in grasses.\r\nProc. VI. Institute Grassland Congr; 1: 155-157.\r\nBurton, W. G. and Devane, E. H. (1953). Estimating\r\nheritability in tall fescue (Festuca arundinacea) from\r\nreplicated clonal material. Agron. J., 45: 478-481.\r\nBaisakh, B., Swain, S. C., Panigrahi, K. K., Das, T. R. and\r\nMohanty, A. (2016). Estimation of Genetic Variability\r\nand Character Association in Micro Mutant Lines of\r\nGreengram [Vigna radiata (L.) Wilczek] for Yield\r\nAttributes and Cold Tolerance. Legume Genomics and\r\nGenetics, 7. Crop Production Statistics. (2018-19). Information System,\r\nDirectorate of Economics & Statistics, Ministry Of\r\nAgriculture and Farmers Welfare, Govt. Of India,\r\nNew Delhi\r\nChandra, G. S., Lavanya, G. R. and Kulkarni, S. D. (2017). Studies on Genetic diversity in Greengram (Vigna\r\nradiata L. Wilczek) for seed yield characters. Journal\r\nof Pharmacognosy and Phytochemistry, 6(6);\r\npp.1765-1767. Ghimire, S., Khanal, A., Kohar, G. R., Acharya, B., Basnet,\r\nA., Kandel, P., & Dhakal, K. (2018). Variability and\r\npath coefficient analysis for yield attributing traits of\r\nmungbean (Vigna radiata L.). Azarian J. Agric, 5, 7- 11.\r\nGoswamy, A. and Panwar, J. D. S. (2014). Impact of elevated\r\ntemperature on growth, yield, grain quality in summer\r\nmung bean and its mitigation through use of\r\nbiofertilzers. Journal of Plant Development Sciences, 6(4); 573-576.\r\nGovardhan, G., Reddy, K. H. P., Reddy, D. M., Sudhakar, P.\r\nand Reddy, B. V. B. (2018). Genetic Variability\r\nStudies for Yield, Yield Attributes and Drought\r\nTolerant Traits in Mungbean (Vigna radiata (L.)\r\nWilczek), International Journal of Pure and Applied\r\nBiosciences, 6(5): 674-679.\r\nJeberson, M. S., Shashidhar, K. S., Wani, S. H. and Singh, A.\r\nK. (2017). Multivariate analysis in mungbean (Vigna\r\nradiata L. Wilczek) for genetic diversity under acidic\r\nsoils of Manipur, India. International Journal of\r\nCurrent Microbiology and Applied Science, 6(7): 760- 769.\r\nJohnson, H. W., Robinson, H. F. Comstock, R. E. (1955). Estimation of genetic and environmental variability in\r\nsoybeans. Agronomy J. 47: 314–318.\r\nKumar, A., Krishna, T. G., Kumar, A., Kumar, R. R.,\r\nKishore, C., Kumar, J. and Adan F. (2019). Genetic\r\nvariability, heritability and genetic advance in\r\nmungbean [Vigna radiata (L.) Wilczek]. International\r\nJournal of Chemical Studies. SP6: 77-81. Mehandi, S., Mishra, S. P., Tripathi, R. C. and Singh, I. P.\r\n(2018). Genetic Variability, Heritability and Genetic\r\nAdvance for Yield and its Related Traits in mungbean\r\n[Vigna radiata (L.) Wilczek] Genotypes. International\r\nJournal of Current Microbiology and Applied\r\nSciences, 3818-3824.\r\nMuthuswamy, A., Jamunarani, M. and Ramakrishnan, P.\r\n(2019). Genetic Variability, Character Association and\r\nPath Analysis Studies in Green Gram (Vigna radiata\r\n(L.) Wilczek). International Journal of Current\r\nMicrobiology and Applied Sciences, 8(04): 1136- 1146.\r\nPayasi, D. K. (2015). Genetic variability analysis for seed\r\nyield and its components in mungbean (Vigna radiate\r\nL. Wilczek). International Journal of Plant Breeding\r\nand Genetics, 9, pp. 177-188.\r\nRahim, M. A., Mia, A. A., Mahmud, F., Zeba, N., & Afrin, K.\r\nS. (2010). Genetic variability, character association\r\nand genetic divergence in Mungbean (Vigna radiate\r\nL. Wilczek). Plant Omics, 3(1): 1-6.\r\nRaturi, A., Singh, S. K., Sharma, V., & Pathak, R. (2015).\r\nGenetic variability, heritability, genetic advance and\r\npath analysis in mungbean [Vigna radiata (L.)\r\nWilczek]. Legume Research-An International\r\nJournal, 38(2): 157-163.\r\nShiv, Aalok, Ramtekey, Vinita, Vadodariya, G. D., Modha, K.\r\nSingh & Bharti Biological Forum – An International Journal 14(2): 91-96(2022) 96\r\nG. and Patel R. K. (2017). Genetic Variability,\r\nHeritability and Genetic Advance in F3 Progenies of\r\nMungbean [Vigna radiata (L.) Wilczek]. International\r\nJournal of Current Microbiology and Applied\r\nSciences, 6(12): 3086-3094. Sushmitharaj, D. V., Shoba, D. and Arumugam Pillai, M.\r\n(2018). Genetic Variability and Correlation Studies in\r\nBlackgram (Vigna mungo [L.] hepper) with Reference\r\nto YMV Resistance. International Journal of Current\r\nMicrobiology and Applied Sciences, pp.2849-2856.\r\nWang, L., Bai, P., Yuan, X., Chen, H., Wang, S., Chen, X., &\r\nCheng, X. (2018). Genetic diversity assessment of a\r\nset of introduced mung bean accessions (Vigna\r\nradiata L.). The Crop Journal, 6(2): 207-213.\r\n','Umesh Kumar Singh and Lalji Bharti (2022). Genetic Variability of Mung Bean for Yield and \r\nYield Contributing Traits. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 14(2): 91-96.'),(4795,'117','Effect of Organic Substrate and Phosphorus Fertilization on Seed, Oil\r\nYields and Composition of Medicinal Pumpkin\r\n(Cucurbita pepo var. styriaca)','R. Pajooheshgar, M. Azizi, H. Nemati and R. Khorasani','98 M. AZIZI.pdf','',1,'Intensive cropping systems with fertilizer responsive crops that rely on high input of inorganic\r\nfertilizers often lead to nonsustainability in production and also pose a serious threat to soil health.\r\nApplication of organic sources of nutrients with no or very little use of fossil fuel-based inorganic fertilizers is\r\nrapidly gaining favor. However, considering economics and also physiological potential of varieties, entire\r\ndependence on organic sources of nutrients may not be adequate to attain the most productivity. Integrated\r\nnutrient management with both organic and inorganic fertilizers was investigated. A field trial was conducted\r\nwith different fertilizer combinations of organic substrates (cow manure, spent mushroom substrates (SMS)\r\nand vermicomposts) and phosphorus fertilization (0, 75, 100 and 125 kg ha-1) to study their effects on seed\r\nnumber, seed phosphorus and zinc content, oil yield and oil quality in medicinal medicinal pumpkin seed\r\n(Cucurbita pepo var. styraca). For lonely application of organic substrates and phosphorus concentrations;\r\nvermicomposts and 125 P (kg.ha-1) treatments had the highest seed number, oil percentage with high value of\r\noleic acid in medicinal medicinal pumpkin seeds. Results from the experiment revealed that among the\r\nsixteen treatments compared, the combination of vermicomposts and all levels of phosphorus applications\r\nhad the maximum of seed number with high oil percentage and qualities. Perhaps in some combine\r\nvermicomposts and phosphorus fertilizer applications, linoleic decreased but because of effective role of these\r\ncombinations on seed number and oil percentage, can help to increase the main important fatty acids.','Organic substrates, Phosphorus fertilizer, Linoleic acid','The most aim characters in medicinal pumpkin\r\nproduction concerned to seeds and oil seed components\r\nwhich have greatest role in pharmaceutical products.\r\nSo, according to data presented in this paper, we can\r\nsuggest some fertilizer to gain the maximum seed yield\r\nwith high oil quality and quantity. For lonely\r\napplication of organic substrates and phosphorus\r\nconcentrations, vermicomposts and 125 P (kg.ha-1)\r\ntreatments had the highest seed number, oil percentage\r\nwith high value of oleic acid in medicinal pumpkin\r\nseeds. For combining applications of organic substrates\r\n× P levels, results showed the maximum of seed\r\nnumber with high oil percentage and quality were found\r\nin vermicomposts × all levels of phosphorus\r\napplications. Perhaps in some combine vermicomposts\r\nand phosphorus fertilizer applications, linoleic\r\ndecreased but because of effective role of these\r\ncombinations in increasing seed number and oil\r\npercentage, it can help to increase the main important\r\nfatty acids, totally.','Medicinal medicinal pumpkin (Cucurbita pepo var.\r\nstyraca) seed oil is a common salad oil in Austria. Due\r\nto its colour, the foaming and the strong aroma, it has\r\nonly limited application for cooking. The seeds\r\nthemselves are eaten and show good results in curing\r\nseveral prostate diseases (Murkovic et al., 2004). The\r\nmain characteristic of the Styrian Oil Medicinal\r\npumpkin is the dark green colour of the thin-coated\r\nseeds (Teppner, 2000). The colour of the oil, which is\r\npressed from the seeds, is dark green to red ochre and\r\nhas a strong red fluorescence. The oil content of the\r\nmedicinal medicinal pumpkin seed varies from 42-54%\r\nand the composition of fatty acids is dependent on\r\nseveral factors (variety, area in which the plants are\r\ngrown, climate, state of ripeness). The dominant fatty\r\nacids comprise palmitic acid (C16:0, 9.5-14.5%),\r\nstearic acid (C18:0, 3.1- 7.4%), oleic acid (C18:1, 21.0-\r\n46.9%) and linoleic acid (C18:2, 35.6-60.8%). These\r\nfour fatty acids make up 98±0.13% of the total. Other\r\nfatty acids are well below 0.5% (Murkovic et al., 2004).\r\nThe content of vitamin E in medicinal medicinal\r\npumpkin seeds is very high (Murkovic et al., 1996).\r\nThe main vitamin E isomers occurring in medicinal\r\nmedicinal pumpkin seeds are α- and β-tocopherols with\r\nconcentration of n.d.-91 mg/kg and 41-620 mg/kg,\r\nrespectively. The other two tocopherols occur at very\r\nlow concentrations. Additionally, a- and g-tocotrienol\r\nare found in significant amounts but have not yet been\r\nquantified (Murkovic et al., 2004).\r\nBiological Forum – An International Journal 7(1): 593-601(2015)\r\nPajooheshgar, Azizi, Nemati and Khorasani 594\r\nChemical fertilizers resulted in overall growth and\r\nenhancement of active constituents of medicinal and\r\ncrop plants, but their overuse and unbalanced\r\napplication without prior analysis of soil nutrient status\r\ncoupled with intensive farming operations and\r\ninadequate land management often lead to non\r\nsustainability in production, posing a serious threat to\r\nunderground water resources, destroying\r\nmicroorganisms and insects, and deteriorating soil\r\nhealth in terms of decline in soil organic matter (Qazi et\r\nal., 2009).\r\nIntegrated supply of nutrient to plants through planned\r\ncombinations of organic and inorganic sources is\r\nbecoming an increasingly important aspect of\r\nenvironmentally sound agriculture. Little research has\r\nbeen reported on the influence of organic manure and\r\nconjoint application of manure and inorganic fertilizer\r\non yield and quality of medicinal medicinal pumpkin\r\noil.\r\nMoreover, the high cost and demand for chemical\r\nfertilizers necessitate fine tuning of their requirement\r\nand management. Application of organic sources of\r\nnutrients with no or very little use of inorganic\r\nfertilizers and use of bio-fertilizers for crop production\r\nare gaining momentum as they are environmentally safe\r\ncompared to chemical fertilizers. The purpose of this\r\nstudy was to compare the effect of chemical\r\n(Phosphorus) and Organic (vermicomposts, cow\r\nmanure and spent mushroom subsrates) treatments on\r\nthe chemical composition of seeds oil from medicinal\r\nmedicinal pumpkin seed (Cucurbita pepo var. styraca).\r\nMATERIALS AND METHODS\r\nThe present study was conducted at Agricultural\r\nResearch Farm of Kohnekan, Iran during the 2014\r\ngrowing season. The experimental units were designed\r\nas split plots based on randomized complete block\r\ndesign (RCBD) in four replications and sixteen\r\nfertilizers combinations. Organic substrates consisted of\r\n4 substrates (control, cow manure (25 T ha-1), SMS (10\r\nT ha-1) and vermicomposts (10 T ha-1)), which allotted\r\nto the main plots. Nutrition analysis of each substrate\r\nwas done before the seed sowing and their results\r\npresented in Table 1.\r\nSub-plots were comprised of different levels of\r\nphosphorus application: 0, 75, 100 and 125 (kg ha-1).\r\nEach plot comprised two rows with 100 cm spacing\r\nbetween them and each row had 4 plants with 40 cm\r\nspace between plants. After the land preparation (such\r\nas plowing, disking and ridging), sowing was carried\r\nout on April 10th in the soil directly. The plants were\r\nthinned to one at 4-6 true leaf stages. In general,\r\nweather condition during all trial period was favorable\r\nfor the growth and development of pumpkin.\r\nObviously, when more than 75% of the fruits became\r\nyellowish orange in color and stem and leaves began to\r\ndry and the seeds became dark green and well rounded,\r\nmanual harvesting was done. The seeds were manually\r\nextracted from the fruits and then naturally dried by sun\r\nlight until constant weight. The traits consisting of seed\r\nnumber per fruit, phosphorus and zinc content of seeds\r\nwere measured. The sun-dried seeds were transferred to\r\nlaboratory. The Murphy and Riley method (1962) and\r\nMortvedt (1999) were employed to determine the P and\r\nZn values of medicinal medicinal pumpkin seeds,\r\nrespectively.\r\nFAME was prepared according to the standard method\r\n(Nakic et al., 2006). The fatty acid profile was\r\ndetermined by gas chromatographic separation of their\r\nmethyl esters (Nakic et al., 2006) on a capillary column\r\n(J&W Scientific DB-23, 30m × 0.25mm × 0.25 μm).\r\nThe temperatures of the injector and detector were set\r\nat 250 °C. The initial oven temperature was 170 °C.\r\nThis temperature was maintained for 8 min and then\r\nincreased at a rate of 2 °C/min to 190°C, which was\r\nheld for 7 min. Helium was used as the carrier gas at a\r\nflow rate of 0.87 mL/min and the injection volume was\r\n0.3 μL. The FAME peaks were identified using FAME\r\nstandards. The fatty acid composition is expressed as\r\nweight percentage of total (internal normalization\r\nmethod). Chromatography software (Unicam 4880\r\nchromatography data system) was employed for data\r\ncollection and processing.\r\nData on seed quantity and quality were analyzed using\r\nMSTAT C program and treatments means were\r\ncompared using Duncan\'s Multiple Range test at 5%\r\nlevel of probability.\r\nTable 1: Chemical properties of experimental substrates before sowing.\r\nSubstrates N (ppm) P (ppm) K (ppm)\r\nControl (Soil) 0.057 10.8 273\r\nSMS 14530 76.40 19290\r\nCoe manure 14170 6120 19880\r\nVermicomposts 15970 7120 5090\r\nPajooheshgar, Azizi, Nemati and Khorasani 595\r\nRESULTS AND DISCUSSION\r\nA. Organic substrates effects\r\nData presented in Table (2) revealed that application of\r\norganic fertilizer significantly increased the seed\r\nnumber, seed phosphorus content and oil yield in\r\nmedicinal medicinal pumpkin over control (no manure).\r\nSeed number per fruit increased by 41, 29 and 46%\r\nover control with SMS, cow manure and\r\nvermicomposts, respectively. The highest value of seed\r\nphosphorus content was observed in vermicomposts\r\nsubstrates and increased 13% over control. Among the\r\nfour treatments compared, the lowest increase over\r\ncontrol (0.13%) was with SMS applied, and the highest\r\nincrease in oil yield was with Vermicomposts (16%),\r\nfollowed by cow manure (13%).\r\nTable 2. Effects of organic substrates on medicinal medicinal pumpkin seed properties\r\nOil (%)\r\nSeed Zinc content\r\n(mg 100g-1)\r\nSeed phosphorus\r\ncontent\r\n(mg 100g-1)\r\nSeed\r\nnumber/fruit\r\nOrganic\r\nSubstrates\r\nControl 185.6 d 0.2236 d 86.12 a 38.44 b\r\nSMS 261.3 b 0.2451 b 87.08 a 38.49 b\r\nCow manure 239.4 c 0.2422 c 79.50 b 43.41 a\r\nVermicomposts 271.6 a 0.2534 a 73.31 c 44.57 a\r\nLSD 5% 9.08 0.01 3.77 1.48\r\n*LSD (0.05) represents least significant difference at 5% probability.\r\nAnimal manure is a valuable resource as a soil fertilizer\r\nbecause it provides large amounts of macro- and\r\nmicronutrients for crop growth and is a low-cost,\r\nenvironmentally friendly alternative to mineral\r\nfertilizers (Haghighat et al., 2013). Sarhan et al., (2011)\r\nworked on organic manures in tomato crop and reported\r\nthat organic manures significantly affected tomato plant\r\nheight, leaf area and fruit number per plant. Abd El-\r\nRahman and Hosny (2001) stated that using organic\r\nmanure improved the yield and yield components of\r\negg-plant fruits.\r\nShahmohammadi et al., (2014) reported that highest\r\nseed yield were obtained in compost substrates (10 ton\r\nha-1) compared to control treatments. Same results were\r\nreported by Rezvanimoghadam et al., (2012). The use\r\nof organic amendments, such as traditional\r\nthermophilic composts, has long been recognized as an\r\neffective means of improving soil structure, enhancing\r\nsoil fertility, increasing microbial diversity and\r\npopulations, microbial activity, improving the moistureholding\r\ncapacity of soils and increasing crop yields\r\n(Arancon et al., 2004). Vermicompost contains most\r\nnutrients in plant-available forms such as nitrates,\r\nphosphates, and exchangeable calcium and soluble\r\npotassium. Vermicomposts are rich in microbial\r\npopulations and diversity, particularly fungi, bacteria\r\nand actinomycetes. Researchers have shown that\r\nvermicomposts consistently promote biological activity\r\nwhich can cause plants to germinate, flower and grow\r\nand yield better than in commercial container media,\r\nindependent of nutrient availability (Atiyeh et al.,\r\n2000a, b). Vermicomposts contain plant growth\r\nregulators and other plant growth influencing materials\r\nproduced by microorganisms including humates\r\n(Atiyeh et al., 2002).\r\nOther studies on organic fertilizers showed that in\r\ncompare of cow manure and vermicomposts,\r\nvermicomposts have more positive effects on seed yield\r\nand oil content than cow manure (Jahan et al., 2013).\r\nThe results in Table 2 confirmed the effective role of\r\nvermicomposts compared to other organic substrates on\r\nmedicinal pumpkin seed properties.\r\nThe highest values for zinc content of seeds were\r\nobtained in SMS (86.12 mg 100g-1), followed by\r\ncontrol (86.12 mg 100g-1) treatments and lowest value\r\nwere observed in vermicomposts (73.31 mg 100g-1).\r\nThere are some informations about the antagonistic\r\neffects of phosphorus on zinc absorption by plants (Das\r\net al., 2005; Karamanos et al., 2008). Das et al., (2005)\r\nshowed that application of phosphorus and zinc in a\r\nsame time caused to have negative effects on Zn\r\navailability in soil and decreased the Zn absorption. On\r\nthe other hand, data in Table (1) showed the highest\r\nphosphorus values between four substrates were\r\nobtained in vermicomposts. Thus, our results are\r\nconsistent with other investigators.\r\nB. Phosphorus levels effects\r\nData presented in Table (3) revealed that application of\r\nphosphorus fertilizer significantly influenced the seed\r\nphosphorus and zinc content and oil percentage in\r\nmedicinal pumpkin seed over control (no manure),\r\nexcept seed number.\r\nPajooheshgar, Azizi, Nemati and Khorasani 596\r\nThere were no significant differences between four\r\nphosphorus levels for seed number per fruit and slight\r\npositive effects were observed in increasing P levels.\r\nPhosphorus content of seed was increased about 24%\r\n(from 0 up to 125 kg ha-1). The highest zinc values in\r\nseed were obtained from control treatments and the\r\nlowest values (81.89, 80.09 and 78.85 mg 100g-1) were\r\nobserved in 125, 75 and 100 (kg ha-1) phosphorus\r\napplication levels, respectively. Seed oil percentage\r\nincreased by 14, 18 and 18.2% over control with SMS,\r\ncow manure and vermicomposts, respectively (Table 3).\r\nTable 3. Effects of different phosphorus levels on medicinal pumpkin seed\r\nproperties.\r\nOil (%)\r\nSeed Zinc\r\ncontent\r\n(mg 100g-1)\r\nSeed phosphorus\r\ncontent\r\n(mg 100g-1)\r\nSeed\r\nnumber/fruit\r\n236.2 a 0.2216 c 85.18 a 36.63 c\r\n241.4 a 0.2503 b 80.09 b 41.79 ab\r\n239.6 a 0.2171 d 78.85 b 43.19 a\r\n240.7 a 0.2754 a 81.89 ab 43.29 a\r\n9.08 0.01 3.77 1.48\r\n∗LSD (0.05) represents least significant difference at 5% probability.\r\nPhosphorus fertilizers can have varied effects on crop\r\nresponses, depending on the crop and environmental\r\nconditions. It\'s application increased root development,\r\nearly flowering, fruit set and fruit ripening, seedformation\r\nand yield (Imran and Gurmani, 2011).\r\nIncreasing of P caused to nitrogen availability and\r\nresulted to increase growth factors and yield.\r\nRezvanimoghadam et al., (2013) reported that usage of\r\nchemical fertilizers containing phosphorus was\r\nincreased oil yield in sesame plants. Usage of\r\nphosphate solubilizing bacteria (PSB) caused to\r\nincrease the phosphorus availability, resulting number\r\nof seed per fruit and oil yield increased by 84% and\r\n83% over control in medicinal pumpkin seed (Habibi et\r\nal., 2011).\r\nBut high value of P may have antagonistic effects on\r\nnutrition availability in soil and decrease nutrition\r\nabsorption (Das et al., 2005; Karamanos et al., 2008)\r\nand caused to decrease morphological and biological\r\nfactors in plants (Rehim et al., 2014; Boroomand and\r\nHosseini Grouh, 2012; Imran and Gurmani, 2011;\r\nRonan, 2007; Das et al., 2005; Sawan et al., 2001).\r\nAccording to data presented in Table (3), increasing in\r\nP levels caused to decrease the zinc content of seed.\r\nThus, our results are consistent with other researchers.\r\nC. Combine application effects of organic substrates\r\nand different phosphorus levels\r\nApplication of different phosphorus levels alone had no\r\nsignificant effects on seed number, but in combine\r\napplications of phosphorus fertilizers and organic\r\nsubstrates, the maximum seed number were obtained in\r\nSMS with all phosphorus levels and vermicomposts\r\nwith/ without phosphorus fertilizers (Table 4).\r\nThe highest and lowest value of seed phosphorus levels\r\nwere observed in vermicomposts × 125 (kg ha-1) and\r\ncow manure × control fertilizer combinations. Because\r\nof antagonistic effects of phosphorus on zinc\r\navailability and absorption by plants (Das et al., 2005;\r\nKaramanos et al., 2008), the lowest values of seed zinc\r\ncontent were observed in vermicomposts × 125 (kg ha-\r\n1) fertilizer combinations. The highest zinc content\r\nvalues were obtained in control × 100 (kg ha-1) and\r\nSMS × 125 (kg ha-1) fertilizer combinations. Oil yield is\r\nthe main purpose of oil seeds cultivation of medicinal\r\npumpkin. The vermicomposts and cow manure with all\r\nphosphorus fertilizer levels had highest values of oil\r\npercentage with no significant differences. Minimum of\r\noil percentage were obtained in SMS × control.\r\nThe effect of organic matter on plant growth and yield\r\nwas reported similar to chemical synthetic fertilizer and\r\neven better (Efthimiadou et al., 2009; Zahradnik and\r\nPetrikova, 2007). Because of variety of micro and\r\nmacro elements in organic substrates and elements\r\navailability or solubility in the presence of different\r\nphosphorus levels, combine application of these\r\nfertilizers may have different response in quality and\r\nquantity of medicinal pumpkin seed properties.\r\nThe composition of fatty acids varies depending on\r\nseveral factors including variety, growing area, climate\r\nand ripeness (Murkovic et al., 1999). As can be seen in\r\nTable (5), four major fatty acids, namely, linoleic\r\n(C18:2), oleic (C18:1), palmetic (C16:0), and stearic\r\n(C18:0) were found in the medicinal pumpkin seed oil\r\nand they constituted more than 97% of the total amount.\r\nPajooheshgar, Azizi, Nemati and Khorasani 597\r\nTable 4. Effects of combine application of organic substrates and different phosphorus levels\r\non medicinal pumpkin seed properties\r\nOil (%)\r\nSeed Zinc\r\ncontent\r\n(mg 100g-1)\r\nSeed phosphorus\r\ncontent\r\n(mg 100g-1)\r\nSeed\r\nnumber/fruit\r\nP Levels\r\n(kg ha -1 )\r\nOrganic\r\nSubstrates\r\nControl 186.0 d 0.2206 i 90.66 b 30.77 de\r\nControl 75 187.3 d 0.2291 h 73.18 def 41.35 bcd\r\n100 184.3 d 0.2829 b 100.1 a 41.95 bcd\r\n125 185.0 d 0.1616 I 80.56 cd 39.67 e\r\nControl 248.3 bc 0.2537 e 74.99 def 29.85 f\r\nSMS\r\n75 268.3 a 0.2544 e 84.20 bc 38.22 bc\r\n100 264.5 ab 0.1930 j 83.40 bc 41.68 bc\r\n125 264.0 ab 0.2797 c 105.7 a 44.22 cde\r\nControl 237.3 c 0.1789 k 89.76 b 42.72 de\r\nCow manure\r\n75 239.8 c 0.2702 d 78.07 cdef 43.20 abc\r\n100 239.8 c 0.2486 f 79.18 cde 43.58 ab\r\n125 240.8 c 0.2710 d 70.97 ef 44.13 ab\r\nControl 273.3 a 0.2331 g 85.29 bc 43.17 bcd\r\nVermicomposts\r\n75 270.3 a 0.2473 f 84.93 bc 44.38 a\r\n100 270.0 a 0.1440 m 52.71 g 45.58 ab\r\n125 273.0 a 0.3895 a 70.30 f 45.15 ab\r\nLSD 5% - 18.16 0.01 7.55 2.97\r\n∗LSD (0.05) represents least significant difference at 5% probability.\r\nThis fatty acid profile is confirmed by several authors\r\n(Nakic et al., 2006; Gohari Ardabili et al., 2011). The\r\nmedicinal pumpkin seed oil contained 19.4% saturated fatty\r\nacids, with the major one being palmitic acid (10.7%)\r\nfollowed by stearic acid (7.7%), while it was high in\r\nunsaturated fatty acids with a total content of 80.7%.\r\nThe main unsaturated fatty acids were linoleic acid followed\r\nby oleic acid with relative amount of 30.50 -39.47 and 40.80\r\n- 48.13 %, respectively. In most other investigations on the\r\nfatty acid composition of C. pepo (Lazos, 1986; El-Adawy\r\nand Taha, 2001), the percentage of linoleic acid was higher\r\n(43.1-55.6%) than that of oleic acid (20.4- 37.8%), while, in\r\nthe present study, the percentages of linoleic were lower\r\nthan the oleic acids. The highest values of linoleic acid were\r\nobtained from control treatments with/without different\r\nphosphorus levels.\r\nThe relative amount of oleic acid is always negatively\r\ncorrelated with the relative amount of linoleic acid\r\n(Murkovic et al., 1996; Schuster et al., 1983; Fruhwirth and\r\nHermetter, 2008), which is due to the substrate-product\r\nrelationship of these two fatty acids (Fruhwirth and\r\nHermetter, 2008).\r\nPajooheshgar, Azizi, Nemati and Khorasani 598\r\nThe vermicomposts × control and SMS × 75 (kg ha-1) had\r\nthe highest oleic acid values (Fig. 1) and lowest linoleic\r\nacid (Fig. 2) and these results were in good agreement\r\nwith other researcher studies.\r\nDespite the high content of total unsaturated fatty acids in\r\nthe medicinal pumpkin seed oil, linolenic acid (C18:3)\r\nwas very low (< 0.6 %), which was in good agreement\r\nwith all other similar studies (Fruhwirth and Hermetter,\r\n2008; Gohari Ardabili et al., 2011).\r\nThe highest values of linolenic acid were observed in\r\nvermicomposts × control, vermicomposts× 100 (kg ha-1)\r\nand vermicomposts × 125 (kg ha-1) fertilizer\r\ncombinations.\r\nAlso, the level of other fatty acids in the medicinal\r\npumpkin seed oil was very low, similar to the results\r\nreported in the literature (Stevenson et al., 2007; Gohari\r\nArdabili et al., 2011).\r\nTable 5. Effects of combine application of organic substrates and different phosphorus levels on oil components in medicinal\r\npumpkin seed.\r\nOrganic\r\nsubstrates\r\nP\r\nLevels\r\n(kg\r\nha-1)\r\nC14:0 C16:0 C16:1 C17:0 C18:0 C18:1 C18:2 C18:3 C20:0 C20:1 C22:0 C22:1\r\nControl\r\n0 0.18 10.13 0.12 - 7.47 40.80 39.20 0.36 0.62 0.28 0.26 0.58\r\n75 0.09 10.15 0.10 0.06 7.21 42.85 38.03 0.14 0.53 0.11 0.19 0.53\r\n100 0.07 9.89 0.15 - 7.48 42.16 38.91 0.18 0.46 0.19 0.13 0.36\r\n125 0.08 9.81 0.09 0.05 7.15 41.83 39.47 0.28 0.49 0.15 0.16 0.44\r\nSMS\r\n0 0.1 10.24 0.16 0.07 7.15 41.91 38.99 0.11 0.54 0.11 0.15 0.46\r\n75 0.08 10.41 0.14 0.05 7.78 48.01 32.35 0.11 0.46 0.11 0.11 0.38\r\n100 0.08 10.01 0.17 0.06 7.36 44.11 36.54 0.28 0.73 0.12 0.13 0.41\r\n125 0.1 9.46 0.13 0.09 7.33 45.16 35.94 0.21 0.61 0.16 0.22 0.59\r\nCow manure\r\n0 0.11 10.15 0.10 0.14 7.28 45.87 34.86 0.17 0.61 0.17 0.13 0.40\r\n75 0.44 1.37 0.27 0.27 7.48 42.18 37.03 0.23 0.7 0.25 0.31 0.45\r\n100 0.16 10.34 0.20 0.21 7.30 42.19 37.69 0.33 0.63 0.21 0.24 0.49\r\n125 0.25 9.99 0.12 0.15 7.35 43.01 37.42 0.18 0.60 0.13 0.22 0.58\r\nVermicomposts\r\n0 - 9.51 0.45 - 8.64 48.13 30.50 0.55 0.69 0.29 0.54 0.69\r\n75 0.15 10.66 0.17 0.13 7.32 40.94 38.70 0.23 0.80 0.18 0.28 0.43\r\n100 0.38 9.55 0.32 - 8.79 41.52 36.04 0.51 0.58 0.41 0.56 1.35\r\n125 0.10 9.63 0.12 0.06 7.68 45.63 34.32 0.54 0.56 0.52 0.18 0.64\r\nPajooheshgar','R. Pajooheshgar, M. Azizi, H. Nemati and R. Khorasani (2015). Effect of Organic Substrate and Phosphorus Fertilization on Seed, Oil Yields and Composition of Medicinal Pumpkin (Cucurbita pepo var. styriaca). Biological Forum – An International Journal 7(1): 593-601. '),(4796,'117','Cloning of chloroplastic rbcL gene region for plastidial vector in Medicago sativa L.','Somayeh Khalili Kolikand, Bahram Baghban Kohnehrouz and Ashraf Gholizadeh ','262 BAHRAM BAGHBAN KOHNEHROUZ.pdf','',1,'Alfalfa (Medicago sativa L.) is a valuable source of proteins, vitamins and minerals for animal nutrition. This crop is cultivated worldwide in more than 80 countries with area exceeding 30 million ha. Due to its high wet and dry performance and also storage capability, this plant is fit as host plant for production of recombinant proteins either by transgenic or transplastomic approach. Construction of species specific plastidial vector was targeted in this research for efficiently developing transplastomic alfalfa. First, the flanking regions (rbcL gene region) in plastid genome were selected for integration of cassettes and cloned in a plasmid vector by PCR method. In this job, total DNA of alfalfa seedling leaves was extracted and its quality and quantity were determined by agarose gel electrophoresis. The PCR amplification of the target fragment was carried out by designed specific primer set and the expected size was examined by 8% agarose gel. After extraction of target fragment from gel, it was ligated in pTG19-T vector. Colony PCR and enzymatic confirmation of recombinant plasmids were done and then sequencing was carried out. Finally, the resulted nucleotide data was compared with reported data in nucleotide bank indicating 96% similarity with Medicago truncatula.','alfalfa, cloning, flanking region, plastidial vector, rbcL ','Alfalfa (Medicago sativa L.) is a valuable source of proteins, vitamins and minerals for animal nutrition. This crop is cultivated worldwide in more than 80 countries with area exceeding 30 million ha. Due to its high wet and dry performance and also storage capability, this plant is fit as host plant for production of recombinant proteins either by transgenic or transplastomic approach. Construction of species specific plastidial vector was targeted in this research for efficiently developing transplastomic alfalfa. First, the flanking regions (rbcL gene region) in plastid genome were selected for integration of cassettes and cloned in a plasmid vector by PCR method. In this job, total DNA of alfalfa seedling leaves was extracted and its quality and quantity were determined by agarose gel electrophoresis. The PCR amplification of the target fragment was carried out by designed specific primer set and the expected size was examined by 8% agarose gel. After extraction of target fragment from gel, it was ligated in pTG19-T vector. Colony PCR and enzymatic confirmation of recombinant plasmids were done and then sequencing was carried out. Finally, the resulted nucleotide data was compared with reported data in nucleotide bank indicating 96% similarity with Medicago truncatula.','Alfalfa (Medicago sativa L.), is the most important forage crop grown in the temperate regions and is cultivated over 30 million hectares worldwide (USDA, 2013). Due to higher amounts of protein, vitamins and minerals in this plant, it is used not only for animal feed but for human as medicine (Yang et al., 2008; Zhengyi et al., 2011). Alfalfa has several characteristics, such as used for silage, hay, green chop, erosion control, honey production, rotational crop and nitrogen soil fixer (Monteiro et al., 2003). More importantly, since alfalfa has high biomass production, this is ideal for genetic manipulation in production of recombinant proteins. Among these technologies, plastid genetic engineering has a number of merits over nuclear transformation in higher plants and algae too (Mata et al., 2010), such as high protein content levels, lack of positional effect, maternal inheritance and gene containment, prokaryotic nature and the feasibility of expressing multiple proteins from polycistronic mRNAs (Bock, 2007; Corriveau and Coleman 1988; Maliga, 2002; Quesada-Vargas et al, 2005). Since the accomplishment of genetic transformation of chloroplast from two decades ago (Boyton et al., 1988; Svab et al., 1990), chloroplast genetic transformation offered several advantages in improving agronomic traits of crops (Daniell et al. 2005; Grevich and Daniell, 2005; Kumar et al, 2004) as well as producing value-added vaccines, antigens and biopharmaceuticals via plant or alga as bioreactors (Daniell et al, 2009; Specht et al, 2010). \r\nPlastid expression vectors possessed left and right flanking sequences originated from plastid genome each with about 1kb in size (Verma and Daniel, 2007). These regions are used for foreign gene integration into plastid DNA through double homologous recombination events. The site of insertion in the plastid genome is determined by plastid DNA segments which are being used as flanking regions at both sides of selectable marker gene and the gene(s) of interest. Insertion of foreign DNA in intergenic regions of the plastid genome has been reported for 16 sites. Three of the insertion sites, trnV-3\'rps12,trnI-trnA and trnfM-trnG, were most commonly used in more plants (Anil et al, 2011; Maliga, 2004). The trnV-3\'rps12, and trnI-trnA sites are located in the 25 kb inverted repeat (IR) region of plastid DNA and thus a gene inserted into these sites would be rapidly copied into two copies in the IR region. In this study, cloning of the flanking rbcL regions from Medicago sativa was targeted for constructing the alfalfa specific plastidial vectors. \r\n \r\n\r\nMATERIALS AND METHODS\r\nAlfalfa (Medicago sativa L.) seeds of synthetic variety of Ghareyonjeh (Developed in Iran, Uni. of Tabriz) were planted in pots. Plants were grown at constant temperature (26ºC) with a 16-h light and 8-h dark cycle for 20 days. \r\nA. DNA extraction\r\nTo prepare high quality DNA, the plants were incubated in a dark place for 24 hours for the full breakdown of cellular starch content. Total DNA was extracted from leaf sample at 2-3 leaves stage using CTAB method (Saghaei et al, 1984). Quality, quantity and concentration of the extracted DNA were evaluated by 0.8% agarose gel electrophoresis using DNA weight marker (SinaClon).\r\nB. Designing the primers\r\nPrimers were designed according to the sequences of Medicago truncatula chloroplast genome available in nucleotide data bank (accession number: AC093544.8). This species is accounted for a close relative of alfalfa. Due to lack of information on Medicago sativa\'s chloroplast genome, truncatula\'s was downloaded from databank and used for designing the specific primers of (F: GAGCTCAATTTTCAAAGTCAACCCAGT\' and R: AAGCTTAAACGGTCTCTCCAAC GCAT) by the online software of Primer-Blast. The cleavage sites of HindIII and sacI enzymes were embedded in the 5\' end of the forward and reverse primers to ensure the cloning procedure.\r\nC. PCR amplification and bacterial transformation\r\nTotal genomic DNA of alfalfa was used as a template for amplification of target fragment in concentration of 5ng.μL-1. The PCR program consisted of an initial denaturing at 94°C for 5 min, continued by 35 cycles of 94°C for 60s, 59°C for 30s and 72°C for 60s, with a final extension step at 72°C for 2 min. About 1400bp target amplificant was eluted using extraction kit from agarose gel and used at concentration of 38ng.μL-1 in ligation reaction with pTG19-T vector at 4°C for 24 hours (Fig. 1).\r\nIn this work, amplificants were checked on 0.8% agarose gel and purified by gel extraction kit (Bioneer Co, South Korea). After reconfirmation and quantifying the eluted DNA, it was used in 1:3 molar ratios (Vector to Insert) for ligation reaction with pTG-19 vector by T4 DNA ligase. \r\nBacterial transformation was carried out with 5µL of ligation reaction using E. coli DH5\' competent cells by Heat Shock method. Transformation mixture were grown overnight at 37°C in LB agar plates containing Ampicillin, X-gal and IPTG. Bacteria that transformed with vectors containing recombinant plasmid DNA produced white colonies and false bacterial cells without recombinant plasmids (i.e. only the vector) grew only blue colonies. The colony PCR and gel electrophoresis were used to confirm presence of target fragment in the white colonies. Single positive white colonies were selected and inoculated to 10 mL LB/ampicillin (100μg.mL-1) broth medium for plasmid extraction. Plasmid extraction from overnight culture was performed using Plasmid extraction Kit (Bioneer, South Korea). Restriction enzyme (Fermentas Co.) digestion was performed to verify the presence of insert in plasmids. The final confirmation of DNA target sequence was done commercially using automated sequencing (Bioneer, South Korea).\r\nRESULTS AND DISCUSSION\r\nSuccessfully amplification of target fragment by truncatula based primers in alfalfa showed the first clue for nucleotide similarity between these two species at primer levels only. But comparison of full length sequence of rbcL fragment was attempted by cloning of this region and revealing its nucleotide sequence (Nucleotide sequences not shown). \r\nResults of bacterial transformation showed that overnight incubation on of transformed mixture on LB agar containing 100 ?g.mL-1 ampicillin and IPTG/X-gal plate leads to growing white and blue colonies (Fig. 1). Blue colonies were originated from either small ligated fragments present in eluted fraction or any fails in vector supplied by company. This kind of problems is seen some times in the white clones too. For this reason from each transformation reaction, 3-5 white colonies were randomly chosen and subjected to direct colony PCR analysis.\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\nFig. 1. White blue screening for cloning rbcL region in E. coli-DH5α on the LB agar/amp containing IPTG and X-gal. Colonies were grown overnight at 37°C.\r\n \r\nFig. 2. Colony PCR for rbcL region. 1, 2 and 3)PCR confirmation of white colonies using specific primer gives the band size ~1400 bp, M) 1 Kb DNA Ladder (Fermentas); 4) Negative control.\r\n \r\n Kolikand, Kohnehrouz and Ashraf 1656\r\n \r\nFig. 3. Ligation reaction. using heat shock method. The pTG19-T is a linear-type vector which takes a circular form after ligation.\r\n \r\nFig. 4. Enzymatic confirmation of recombinant plasmid on electrophoresis. I) Digested fragment by single cut EcoRI gives band size of about 4300bp, II) Uncut recombinant plasmid DNA, M) DNA size marker (Fermentas).\r\nColonial screening of rbcL region by PCR using specific primer gives the band size ~1400 bp that was accorded with rbcL regional size in truncatula, too (Fig. 2). Before sequencing and for further confirmation of amplificant, extracted plasmids were digested with restriction enzyme EcoRI (Fig. 4). \r\n\r\n\r\n\r\nFinal confirmation of cloned DNA sequence was done using automated sequencing (Reseach Biolabs, Bioneer Co, South Korea). Sequencing results were analyzed using bioinformatics software (Fig. 5). \r\nPair-blast analysis of obtained sequence with species of truncatula\'s total genome showed not only 96% similarity with organellar plastid genome but also with nuclear chromosomes of 6 and 7. This could be happened by exchanges of genetic material among plastids and nuclei during symbiotic evolution (Gould, et al, 2008). The pair-blast of these data with other relative species also showed good amounts of similarities at 85 to 95 percents (Table 1). \r\nSince the plastid transformation offers a good platform of foreign gene expression in higher plants, alfalfa could be the good candidate due to high level of protein production capacities from one hand and industrial/medicinal uses from other hand (Huan-Huan et al, 2009; Shaochen, 2011). By this work, we did the first step in plastid transformation by cloning of rbcL region of Medicago as flanking regions in alfalfa plastid vector. Till now, tobacco plastidial expression vectors were often used for alfalfa transplastomics (Shaochen et al, 2011). Since the cultivated varieties are synthetic worldwide (Flajoulot et al, 2005) some differences might be among nucleotide sequences of these variety kinds (Ruhlman et al, 2010; Smith, 1989) which could potentially interfere with efficiency of homologous recombination. For this reason using of species specific vector with 100 percent similarity with plastid genome guaranties the exact occurrence of homologous recombination. Here we did not decided on targeting inverted repeat (IRs) regions, because in legumes like alfalfa one of IR regions has been lost during their evolution and the expression potential of this region is remarkable than others (Saski et al. 2005). \r\n','Somayeh Khalili Kolikand, Bahram Baghban Kohnehrouz and Ashraf Gholizadeh (2015). Cloning of chloroplastic rbcL gene region for plastidial vector in Medicago sativa L.Biological Forum – An International Journal 7(1): 1654-1658'),(4797,'117','The Effect of Schroth Training Course on Certain Postural and Biomechanical Parameters of the Spine among Students with Idiopathic Scoliosis','Gholami Farzaneh*, Sokhanguei Yahya** and Saboonchi Reza*','302 SOKHANGUEI YAHYA.pdf','',1,'In every era, humans have desired to maintain a healthy body away from the diseases. Employing the science of pathology and subsequent corrective exercises, humans have attempted to modify the physical abnormalities particularly spinal deformities. Scoliosis is one of the most common spinal deformities. In etiological terms, scoliosis has been divided into two categories with known and unknown causes. One of the most frequently applied treatments for this deformity involves Schroth exercises. This study intends to examine the effect of Schroth training course on certain positional and biomechanical parameters of the spine among students with idiopathic scoliosis. This is an applied research in terms of objective. It can be regarded a quasi-experimental survey in terms of methodology. The statistical population comprised a total of 30 students with idiopathic scoliosis in Tehran, selected through sampling among available subjects, divided into two control and experimental group, where the latter took the Schroth training course. The hypotheses were tested through the Kolmogorov Smirnov statistical models so as to determine the normality of the data distribution. The t-test was employed to examine the hypotheses and their effectiveness using SPSS 21. The results indicated that Schroth exercises left a significant effect on the dependent variables measured for the angle difference in the inferior angle of the scapula and Adam\'s test (bending forward). According to the results, the Schroth exercises can be applied to improve idiopathic scoliosis in students.','Schroth exercises, Idiopathic scoliosis, Inferior angle of the scapula, Adam\'s test','The results of this study showed that Schroth exercises can employ the muscles involved in patients with idiopathic scoliosis so as to effectively improve the biomechanical and postural parameters. Studies and research indicate that physical deformations occur among students. Such deformations are usually not severe and will be corrected by a series of corrective exercises. In the developed countries, the issues concerning the correct posture among school children are paid a great deal of attention. Currently, there are numerous students who have mild spinal deformities. Familiarity with Schroth exercises and correct application can reduce the severity of abnormality or fix the problem, thus preventing the incidence of complications related to the deviation and its impact on the individual performance for one or more joints of the body. Therefore, Familiarity with Schroth exercises for treating scoliosis can be beneficial for sports instructors and physical education specialists directly communicating with students.','In every era, humans have desired to maintain a healthy body away from the diseases. Nowadays, this idea was brought up more than ever in the wake of automated individual lifestyles (Van Loon et al., 2008). Using the science of pathology and corrective exercises, humans attempt to find the most appropriate body and prevent physical disorders, especially spinal deformities. There is a broad range of forms in abnormal spinal curvatures (Ronald, 2011).\r\nScoliosis is one of the most common spinal deformities. This anomaly appears before the age of 14, and the prevalence is 19% (Sokhanguei, 2012). \r\nMore girls than boys suffer from this disorder, the severity of which is higher among girls (Weiss et al., 2003, Bunnell 1986). \r\n In etiological terms, there are two types of scoliosis, one of which with a known cause and the other with an unknown cause. The incidence of idiopathic scoliosis is 75% to 85% (Alizadeh, 2012). One of the corrective methods for this complication involves the Schroth exercises based on the neurophysiologic patterns, muscular motions and correction of breathing patterns, leading to reduction of asymmetrical forces on the curve and ultimately curtailing the risk of developing scoliosis. \r\nIt affects the treatment through posture and biomechanics (Romano et al., 2009, Romano et al., 2013, Otman et al., 2005, Hawes and Brooks 2002, Aebi, 2005). \r\n Scoliosis refers to three-dimensional deformity of the spine along with lateral curvature and rotation of the vertebral bodies. Idiopathic scoliosis is is the transverse deviation of the spine with unknown cause as and the most common spinal asymmetry. It includes adverse deviation greater than 10 degrees in the coronal plane with the vertebrae rotation. The adult idiopathic scoliosis is the most common type of idiopathic scoliosis that occurs after the age of 10. The prevalence of this type of scoliosis with an angle of over 10 degrees is general in almost 30% of the population, two times more prevalent among women than men. Nearly 30% of adults with scoliosis have a family history which states that genetic factors may play a role in this disease. At least one gene called CHD7 is associated with idiopathic scoliosis. Scoliosis often appears or deteriorates during the teenage growth (Negrini et al., 2008, Bruyneel et al., 2009, Chockalingam et al., 2008). \r\n \r\nBy taking into account the growing individual (eg, around puberty) or less than 20-25 degrees of scoliosis, the doctor would take treatment measures, because of scoliosis can be corrected around puberty. Scoliosis lower than 20-25 degrees can remain asymptomatic in the absence of progress and increased angle (Negrini et al., 2008). Based on the above discussion, one of the most effective exercises for back scoliosis involves the Schroth training, which is a non-invasive and non-symmetrical procedure for treating scoliosis successfully applied in Europe since 1920 used and has been updated so far (Schroth, 2007). The Schroth method was developed in Germany by Katrina Shruz. This method implies the imbalance of muscle strength on the left and right sides of the spine, which has been confirmed by the International Scientific Society on Scoliosis Orthopedic and Rehabilitation (SOSORT). Based on the facts presented, application of Schroth exercises and how effective these exercises can be on different organs especially the spine bring up several questions to which the researchers seek an answer. In a study in 2009 titled \"Correction of scoliosis patients by training health Schroth\", Rigu et al. examined the biomechanical principles of the method, finding out that exercises improved the lateral curvature of the spine and internal rotation (Rigo and Gallo 2009). In a study titled \"Rehabilitation of scoliosis, the use of training programs in physical therapy\", Vis and Thornbal (2012) described four active training approaches to reduce the angles of the spine, finding effective the Schroth exercises in pain reduction, increases function of the respiratory system, angle of rotation of the vertebrae. \r\nHirness and Thornbal (2011) conducted a study titled \"The rehabilitation of patients with postural abnormalities: describing the Schroth procedure\", where they focused on the definition of idiopathic scoliosis deformity and Schroth, arguing that this method could be effective with tension and kinematicsfor prevention and treatment of scoliosis as the three-dimensional Schrothl exercises in the daily life of people with idiopathic scoliosis can be effective. In a study titled \"Rehabilitation of scoliosis\", Vis and Gedal (2010) examined the physical exercises using the brace, regarding the Schroth training as a useful method upgraded, which can correct the shoulder muscles and even the angle of the legs, spinal posture and prevention of angular rotation (Weiss and Goodall, 2010). In all the relevant research, the appropriate training exercises were not performed on the basis of lateral spine which could be one of the shortcomings of research. On the other hand, according to the research subject there has not been any investigation in particular concentrating on the predictor variables on scoliosis Schroth exercises. Hence, this research was conducted for the first in Iran time. It seeks to answer the question whether or not performing a 12-week Schroth program has an impact on the difference between the inferior angle of the scapula and Adam\'s test among students. \r\n\r\nMATERIALS AND METHODS\r\nThe statistical population comprised a total of 30 students with idiopathic scoliosis in Tehran, selected through a sampling among available subjects, divided into two control (15 subjects) and experimental group (15 subjects), where the latter took the Schroth training course. To collect information on the subject, only the laboratory method was used. Moreover, this research was carried out in District 4 of Tehran in 2014. In this study, patients with scoliosis were selected through personal consent and the physician\'s diagnosis. The Scoliometer was applied as a tool for Adam\'s test, while a tape meter was used to measure the difference in the inferior angles of the scapula. The exercise group was trained through Schroth for 12 weeks. The exercises met three times a week for 40 minutes is both active and passive modes. In this study, all the patients participating in the trial were tested twice at an interval of 12 weeks. 15 of them were taught the exercises after the first test (pre-test). 12 weeks later, the same tests (post-test) were repeated, but the remaining 15 subjects as control group were left without any training and 12 weeks later the tests were repeated.\r\nBelow are two examples of Schroth exercises and how to do: \r\nExercise one: The subject in standing posture holds two bars or woods vertically on the floor, stretching the arms on the upper end for 10 seconds. It should be noted that this exercise started 5 times a day and continued to 8 times a day, i.e. the frequency was added every three days (8,8,8,7,7,7,6,6,6,5,5,5).\r\nExercise two: the subject remains in lying posture on the stomach, so that the center of the body (abdomen and pelvis) is completely on physioball so as to keep balance. Then, the ladder is grasped with outstretching arms, both feet stretched on the floor. This exercise is performed for 30 seconds. It should be noted that this exercise started 3 times a day and continued to 6 times a day, i.e. the frequency was added every three days 6,6,6,5,5,5,4,4,4,3,3,3). \r\nIt should be noted that the exclusion criteria were: Bone-muscle pain, fracture history and recent surgery on the spine, and sprengel. Furthermore, the study inclusion criteria were: Uneven shoulders, unequal iliac crest of the pelvis on both sides, asymmetry of the two sides of the ribs, asymmetry of muscles around the torso, leg length discrepancy, any obvious structural deformity. In this study, the data were analyzed through descriptive statistics (mean and standard deviation) and inferential statistics (the Kolmogorov-Smirnov test for determining the normal distribution of data) and t-test. All of these statistical measures were taken in SPSS 21.\r\nOBSERVATIONS\r\nThe subjects comprised 30 patients divided into experimental group (n = 15) and control group (n = 15). Table 1 illustrates the descriptive variables measured in the control and experimental groups.\r\n \r\n \r\nIn this study, the dependent variables include the difference in inferior angle of the specula and Adam\'s test based on which the effect of Schroth exercises was evaluated. The inter-group factors in this research consisted of two tests (before and after the training course). The inrta-group factors referred to the classification based on exercise performance. Accordingly, the research comprises two experimental groups (n=15) and control group (n=15). For each of the dependent variables of the study, an ANOVA was administered on the replicated measurements.\r\nA. Difference in inferior angle of the specula\r\nThis analysis intended to examine the effect of the difference in inferior angle of the specula The intra-group effects were significant (P = 0.017 and F4 = 6.460 = (28, 1)), while the inter-group effects were insignificant (P = 0.230 and F = 1.507=(16, 1)). Moreover, the interaction effects were significant (P=0.017 and F=6.460(28, 1)). In other words, with regard to the separation of changes in scores in each of the two groups, the pattern of change in the intra-group effects was different. The Schroth exercises left a significant impact on the difference in inferior angle of the specula.\r\n \r\n\r\n\r\n\r\n \r\n\r\n \r\nB. Adam\'s test (bending forward 90 degrees)\r\nThis analysis intended to examine the effect of the difference in Adam\'s test. The intra-group effects were significant (P = 0.032 and F = 5.091 =(28, 1)), while the inter-group effects were insignificant (P = 0.822 and F= 0.051= (16, 1)). Moreover, the interaction effects were significant (P = 0.032 and F = 5.091(28, 1)). In other words, with regard to the separation of changes in scores in each of the two groups, the pattern of change in the intra-group effects was different. Thus, the Schroth exercises left a significant effect on Adam\'s test.\r\nDISCUSSION\r\nIn this study, the dependent variables include the difference in inferior angle of the specula and Adam\'s test based on which the effect of Schroth exercises was evaluated. The torso rotational motions in Schroth exercises can help the spine stabilization, gradually improving the muscle asymmetric posture. In order to prevent the uneven and asymmetrical development of the planes in the vertebral body on concave and convex sides of the deviated curve, Schroth exercises can affect the vertebral body through biomechanically creating asymmetrical forces on both sides of the curve thus leading the modified angulations. These exercises can revolve around three motion planes so that the curve peak on the frontal plane is transferred toward the concave curve of the spine. On the other hand, the effect of stretching exercises as one of the basic principles of training can lead to more flexibility for lateral muscles of the spine and help the flexibility of the muscles at the upper back or rear parallelogram, thus affecting the better bending toward left and right. Schroth training creates stability in the spine, thus slowly rehabilitating the subjects and can reduce the consequences structural deformity for people with scoliosis. The Shruz exercises with aerobic performance can increase lung capacity, vital capacity and the maximum oxygen intake in patients with scoliosis, thus enhancing their breathing patterns. The hypotheses of this study involve the effect of Schroth exercises on the difference in inferior angle of the specula and Adam\'s test, in both of which the impact of the training turned out to be significant. One of the main reasons for effectiveness on Adam\'s test can be the difference between the angulations of two shoulders. The effectiveness of these exercises on organs amd muscles in Adam\'s test was proved by this study. The results were consistent with those obtained by Weiss (1995), Romono and Negrini (2006) and Katharina Schroth (2008) whereas they were inconsistent the results from Othman et al (2005). The impact exercises on the hard spinal body were also proved by the results of this research. The first effectiveness can be associated with establishing the vertebrae or postural control. Other aspects of the impact by this exercise on the spinal body could be found in the strength training on back and flat floor in sitting position. \r\n','Gholami Farzaneh, Sokhanguei Yahya and Saboonchi Reza (2015). The Effect of Schroth Training Course on Certain Postural and Biomechanical Parameters of the Spine among Students with Idiopathic Scoliosis. Biological Forum – An International Journal 7(1): 1885-1889. '),(4798,'132','Timonius finlaysonianus (Wall. ex G. Don) Hook. f. (Rubiaceae): A new addition to the flora of India from Andaman and Nicobar Islands','Apurba Kumar Das, C. Sivaperuman','1_JNBR_11_1_2022.pdf','',1,'Timonius finlaysonianus (Wall. ex G. Don) Hook. f., is a flowering plant belonging to the family Rubiaceae, is reported from Andaman and Nicobar Islands as a new addition to the flora of India. Species native range is west and central Malaysia, now we have collected from Teressa Island of Nicobar group. A brief description, photographs, distribution map are provided with ecological notes.','Angiosperm, Rubiaceae, New record, India, Teressa Island.','The authors are thankful to the Director, Zoological Survey of India, for providing the facilities and constant support. We also acknowledge the Forest Officials, Nicobar Division, for providing permission to carry out the field survey.','Chen J, Tan HTW, Wong KW. 2015. A revision of\r\nTimonius (Rubiaceae) in Kinabalu Park,\r\n\r\nBorneo, with notes on typification and species\r\ndistinction. Pl EcolEvol 148: 420–430.\r\nDarwin S. 2010. A taxonomic revision of Timonius\r\nsubgen. Pseudobobea (Valeton) S.P. Darwin\r\n(Rubiaceae). Candollea 65: 217–240.\r\nGovaerts R, Ruhsam M, Andersson L, Robbrecht E,\r\nBridson D, Davis A, Schanzer I, Sonk B.\r\n2021. World Checklist of Rubiaceae.\r\nFacilitated by the Royal Botanic Gardens,\r\nKew. Published on the Internet;\r\nhttp://wcps.science.kew.org [Accessed on 08\r\nDecember 2021].\r\nLakshminarasimhan P, Rao PSN. 1996.\r\nSupplementary list of angiosperms recorded\r\n(1983-1993) from Andaman and Nicobar\r\nIslands. India. J Econ Taxo Bot 20: 175–185.\r\n\r\nPandey RP, Diwakar PG. 2008. An integrated check-\r\nlist Flora of Andaman & Nicobar Islands,\r\n\r\nIndia. J Econ Taxo Bot 32 (2): 403–500.\r\nPrasad PRC, Reddy CS, Lakshmi RKV, Kumari PV,\r\nRaza SH. 2009. Angiosperms of North\r\nAndaman, Andaman and Nicobar Islands,\r\nIndia. Check List 5(2): 254–269.\r\nSinha BK. 1999. In Hajra, PK, PSN Rao (Eds.) Flora\r\nof Great Nicobar Islands. Botanical Survey of\r\nIndia, Calcutta.\r\nWong KM, Turner IM, Wang RJ, Harwood R, Seah\r\nWW, Ng XY, Lim RCJ, Lua HK, Mahyuni R.\r\n2019. RUBIACEAE, Flora of Singapore\r\n13(1): 1–358.','Timonius finlaysonianus (Wall. ex G. Don) Hook. f. (Rubiaceae): A new addition to the flora of India from Andaman and Nicobar Islands'),(4799,'132','A Report of Asian Long Tailed Tree Mouse Vandeleuria oleracea (Bennett 1932) In Agroecosystem of Surban Village, Gondia, Maharashtra','Gopal Paliwal, Sudhir Bhandarkar ,Sandeep Bande','2_JNBR_11_1_2022.pdf','',1,'The small mammal found nearly all ecosystems, plays an important role in the environment which fills an important ecological niche. As a primary consumer in food chain they have impact on plant sources, also they become a food source for predators.The diversity of rodents and their distribution always be different habitats and depend on the different environmental factors. From the several reports it is seen that the rodent’s abundance found to be high in modified habitat. The present report is based on the sighting of rodents in agro ecosystem of Surban village in Gondia district of Maharashtra in December 2021. The observation on the occurrence of Asian long tailed tree mouse, Vandeleuria oleracea reveals that the species prefer a specific habitat and spent its life span using complex environmental measures that define a particular habitat.','Vandeleuria, Rodentia, Agroecosystem, Gondia, Maharashtra.','The authors would like to express their thanks to the member of AWF for survey. Authors are also thankful to workers in the field for their valuable support for assisting in the careful sighting and observation during the study.','Agrawal VC. 2000. Taxonomic studies on Indian\r\nMuridae and Hystricidae (Mammalia:\r\nRodentia). Rec. Zool. Surv180.\r\nDatiko D, Bekele A. 2014. Habitat association and\r\ndistribution of rodents and insectivores in\r\nChebera-Churchura National Park, Ethiopia.\r\nTropical Ecology 55(2), 221–229.\r\nEllerman JR. 1961. The Fauna of India including\r\nPakistan, Burma and Ceylon. Mammalia. Vol 3\r\n(Rodentia), Part I &II. Govt of India, Delhi 884\r\npp.\r\nFitzherbert E, Gardner T, Caro T, Jenkins P, 2006.\r\nHabitat preferences of small mammals in\r\nKatavi ecosystem of western Tanzania. Afr. J.\r\nEcol 45, 249–257.\r\nKasso M, Bekele A, Hemson G. 2010. Species\r\ncomposition, abundance and habitat\r\nassociation of rodents and insectivores from\r\nChilalo–Galama Mountain range, Arsi,\r\nEthiopia. Afr. J. Ecol 48, 1105–1114.\r\nLidickes WZ. 1989. Rodents: A world Survey of\r\nSpecies of Conservation. IUCN/SCC Rodent\r\nSpecialist Group. Occasional paper of IUCN\r\nSpecies Survival Commission (SSC) No 4.\r\nMassawe AW, Rwamugira W, Leirs H, Makundi RH,\r\nMulungu LS. (2006). Do farming practices\r\ninfluence population dynamics of rodents? A\r\ncase study of the multimammate field rats,\r\nMastomysnatalensis, in Tanzania. African\r\nJournal of Ecology 45, 293–301.\r\nPaliwal GT, Bhandarkar SV. 2015. Study on Rodent\r\nDiversity in and around Navegaon National\r\nPark, Gondia District of Maharashtra, India.\r\nSmall mammal mail 7(1):7-9.\r\nPradhan MS, Talmale SS. 2009. A checklist of valid\r\nIndian Rodent Taxa (Mammalia: Rodentia),\r\nZoological Survey of India, Kalkata, India 13\r\npp.\r\n\r\nPradhan MS. 1994. Report on Collection of a long-\r\ntailed tree mouse Vandeleuria oleracea from\r\n\r\ncultivated fields around Ujani wetland,\r\nMaharashtra. Science and Culture 607-12:123.\r\nPrater SH. 1971. The book of Indian Animals 3rd Ed.\r\nBombay Natural History Society, Mumbai 324\r\npp.\r\nTTMS, 2011. Zoo Outreach Organization and\r\nWildlife Information Liaison Development,\r\nCoimbatore, India.\r\nWilson DE, Reeder DM. 2005. Mammal species of\r\nthe world, 3rd Edition, Johns Hopkins\r\nUniversity press, Baltimore, M.D 2: 2141 pp.','A Report of Asian Long Tailed Tree Mouse Vandeleuria oleracea (Bennett 1932) In Agroecosystem of Surban Village, Gondia, Maharashtra'),(4800,'125','In Vitro Shoot Proliferation from different Explants in Pomegranate \r\n(Punica granatum L.)\r\n','Choudhary, R.*, Jakhar, M. L., Kumar, R., Shekhawat, K., Kumawat, S. and Choudhary, S.','18 In Vitro Shoot Proliferation from Different Explants in Pomegranate Punica granatum L. Choudhary R.pdf','',1,'Explants and antioxidants have a significant impact on pomegranate in vitro culture. Especially in mature explant, explants and medium browning is a major problem in pomegranate due to the exudation of high amount of phenols. Browning and latent contamination are challenges of the study. As a result, the current study was carried out in order to offer a suitable technique for in vitro cultivation with the least amount of phenolic exudates in order to create virus-free plants that are true to type. Due to the existence of pre-existing meristems, cytokinins have been demonstrated to be beneficial for the induction of numerous shoots from apical/axillary explants in the current study. In fact, such a characteristic has been fully used in the species for micropropagation. Various plant growth regulators, such as cytokinins (BAP/KN) and auxins (IAA/2,4-D), were applied to explants at different concentrations. In shoot apex explants, maximum shoot proliferation was recorded on a medium containing 2.5 mg/l BAP, followed by 3.0 mg/l BAP and 2.0 mg/l 2,4-D with 100% frequency. With a 100% frequency, 2.0 mg/l BAP, 2.0 mg/l Kn, and 2.0 mg/l 2,4-D produced the most shoot proliferation in the Nodal section. At higher concentrations (4.0-5.0 mg/l), bud induction was entirely suppressed. At 1.0 mg/l and 5.0 mg/l Kn, the minimum number of shoot buds (1.3) was reported 100% frequency. The induction of shoot buds was gradually decreased as the concentration of BAP (> 2.0 mg/l) was increased.','Pomegranate, shoot proliferation, Micropropagation, Tissue culture','In this study, cytokinins (BAP/Kn) and auxins (IAA/2,4-D) were applied to nodal segment, shoot apex, and leaf explants. In shoot apex explants, maximum shoot proliferation was recorded on a medium containing 2.5 mg/l BAP followed by 3.0 mg/l BAP and 2.0 mg/l 2,4-D with 100% frequency. With a 100% frequency, 2.0 mg/l BAP, 2.0 mg/l Kn, and 2.0 mg/l 2,4-D produced the maximum shoot proliferation in the Nodal segment.','INTRODUCTION\r\nThe pomegranate (Punica granatum L.) is a member of the Punicaceae family. It is endemic to Iran and has spread over Asia, Africa, and Europe\'s Mediterranean region (Sepulveda et al., 2000). It contains chromosomes with 2n=2x=16, 18 Smith 1976. Pomegranate was one of the first five fruit crops domesticated by mankind in 2000 BC (date palm, fig, olive, grape, and pomegranate). Pomegranates come in a variety of ecotypes, including farmed (Punica granatum L.), wild (Punica protopunica) and ornamental varieties (Japanese Dwarf pomegranate - Punica granatum var. Nana). Pomegranate is a hardy plant that grows in saline soil and drought.\r\nPomegranates are rated a super fruit because of its excellent medicinal capabilities and numerous health advantages (da Silva et al. 2013). Pomegranate fruit includes ellagitannins, notably punicalagins, anthocyanins, flavonols, and flavonoids, among other beneficial components (Salgado et al., 2012; Yuan et al., 2018). Pomegranate is valued highly for its delicious edible fruits are rich in sugars, vitamins, polysaccharides, polyphenols, and minerals (Ferrara et al., 2014). Because of its widespread use in the pharmaceutical and food industries, the demand for high-quality pomegranate planting material is rising.\r\nIt is grown on 2.16 lakh ha in India, with a production of 27.95 lakh tonnes and a productivity of 12.94 tonnes per hectare Anonymous 2016-17a. It I is grown on 2857 ha in Rajasthan, with a production of 10379 tonnes and a productivity of 3.63 tonnes per hectare. Rajasthan\'s pomegranate-producing districts include Jalore, Chittorgarh, Barmer, Bhilwara, and Jodhpur. With 847 ha of land, 3134 tonnes of production, and 3.7 tonnes per hectare of productivity, Jalore is the most productive of these districts (Anonymous 2016-17b).\r\nPomegranates are propagated commercially through stem cuttings (Hardwood cutting) or air layering. These methods are time-consuming and labor-intensive, and they have other drawbacks such as a low success rate and the fact that new plants need a year to develop. As a result, plantlets are not available throughout the year. Furthermore, this conventional method of propagation does not offer disease-free and healthy plants (Kanware et al., 2010). Despite a large rise in pomegranate planting acreage, the fruit\'s production is severely hindered by diseases and insect pest attacks (Cocuzza et al., 2016; Pathania et al., 2019). Therefore, to increase production, quick propagation methods are required. Seeds are not a highly dependable means of propagation since they cause population heterozygosity. Furthermore, employing hardwood and softwood cuttings for plant propagation does not guarantee the development of disease-free clones (Desai et al., 2018).\r\nThough regeneration from existing meristems (shoot tip and nodal bud), vegetative and reproductive plant components has been attempted with some notable results, pomegranate cell and tissue culture remains difficult. The most widely utilised organogenesis approaches have relied on seedling-derived plant material (Chauhan & Kanwar, 2012). Although this strategy is ineffective for elite cultivars. The goal of this study is to develop a dependable methodology for callus induction and organogenesis in vitro in order to create plants that are true to type.\r\nExplants have a significant impact on pomegranate in vitro culture. As a result, the current study was carried out in order to offer a dependable in vitro growth strategy for producing virus-free plants that are true to type. According to Kabir et al. (2021) ninety percent of the cultured explants responded to form shoots from 30 days old in vitro raised seedlings after 90 days of culture initiation in MS containing 1.0 mg/l IBA + 0.1 mg/l NAA. The average number of shoots per explant was 10.0 ± 2.20, shoot length of 12.0 ± 2.40 cm, node per regenerated shoot was 9.0 ± 1.60 and the leaf number was14.0 ± 1.40. \r\nThe lethal browning of explants and culture medium makes it difficult to establish in vitro culture of various plant species, particularly woody plants. The many strategies used to prevent browning\'s negative consequences. Antioxidants such as activated charcoal (AC), polyvinylpyrrolidone (PVP), citric acid and others are used to reduce the negative effects (Weatherhead et al., 1978).\r\nBecause of a browning problem during the initial establishing stage of in vitro culture, in vitro propagation of woody plants is difficult to grow (Pirttila et al. 2008; Krishna et al., 2008). Because of the leaching of phenolic compounds and secondary metabolites from the cut surface, subsequent morphogenesis response and rooting of explants is hampered. The establishment of cultures from mature explants in pomegranate is seriously affected by the oozing phenolic exudates. The phenolics cause browning of the media and also induce explant mortality (Martini et al., 2013). Due to the exudation of large amounts of phenols, especially in mature explants, explants and medium browning are a severe problem (Naik and Chand 2010). Phenolic compound leads to oxidation and turns the tissue brown or black and the oxidation product inhibit enzyme activity which results in killing of tissue browning of media and ultimately results in poor establishment of cultures. Phenols are a class of chemical compounds that include a wide range of plant components that share an aromatic ring with one or more hydroxyl elements (Onuoha et al., 2011). Many attempts to replicate pomegranate utilising tissue culture techniques employing mature plant shoot tip and nodal segment explants (Kantharajah et al., 1998 and Kanwar et al., 2009). The activated charcoal supplementation of 200 mg/l in culture media was found best antioxidant for maximum shoot bud induction in nodal segment through controlling of accumulation of phenolic compounds.\r\nMATERIALS AND METHODS\r\nPunica granatum was the subject of the current study. Explants were collected from healthy trees maintained at the Department of Plant Breeding and Genetics, S.K.N. College of Agriculture, Jobner, and included shoot apexes and nodal segments. Different surface sterilisation agents were used to sterilise explants. Explants were extensively cleansed with running tap water for 20 minutes before being rinsed again with liquid detergent (RanKleen) for 10 minutes while vigorously shaking. Explants were cleaned with running tap water for 5 minutes after washing with detergent to remove any evidence of detergent. Finally, explants were surface sterilised with 0.1 percent HgCl2 for 2-5 minutes in a laminar air flow cabinet, depending on the explant.\r\nA. Induction of Shoot proliferation\r\nFor shoot proliferation, shoot apex and nodal segments were placed on MS medium supplemented with various concentrations of cytokinins (BAP/Kn1.0, 1.5, 2.0, 2.5, 3.0, 4.0, and 5.0 mg/l) and auxins (IAA/2,4–D 1.0, 1.5, 2.0, 2.5, 3.0, 4.0, and 5.0 mg/l).\r\nRESULTS AND DISCUSSION\r\nWhen Shoot apex explants on medium supplemented various concentration of plant growth regulators were inoculated, it reacted by an approach of shoot bud break at different levels of BAP with 100 % frequency. At 2.5 mg/l BAP, the maximum shoot bud induction (2.0) was recorded, followed by 1.9 buds at 3.0 mg/l BAP (Fig. 1). Similarly to the nodal segment, raising the level of BAP in the shoot apex promoted shoot bud induction up to 2.5 mg/l. However, higher levels of BAP had an inhibitory influence on bud proliferation (Table 1).\r\nAt all levels of BAP (1.0-5.0 mg/l), the nodal segments began to proliferate shoot bud within 16–19 days of incubation. At 2.0 mg/l BAP, the maximum number of shoot buds (2.1) induction was observed (Fig. 2). At 1.0 mg/l BAP, the smallest number of shoot buds (1.4) was found. At all levels of BAP (1.0-5.0 mg/l), the frequency of shoot bud proliferation was 100%. Induction of shoot buds was aided by increasing the concentration of BAP to 2.0 mg/l. However, when the concentration of BAP (> 2.0 mg/l) increased, the induction of shoot buds decreased (Table 2).\r\nWithin 16 - 20 days of inoculation, nodal explants cultured on MS medium supplemented with varied amounts of Kn (1.0-5.0 mg/l) started sprouting. Multiple shoot bud induction was detected at all levels of Kn with 100% frequency, just like BAP. At 2.0 mg/l, maximum shoot bud induction (1.8) was observed with 100% frequency (Fig. 3). At 1.0 mg/l and 5.0 mg/l Kn, the minimum number of shoot buds (1.3) were reported 100% of the time. Shoot bud induction was enhanced up to 2.0 mg/l by increasing the concentration of Kn in the medium. After 2.5 mg/l, the number of shoot bud inductions decreased as the level of Kn increased (Table 2).\r\nWhen shoot apex explants were inoculated in MS Medium supplemented with various concentrations of 2,4-D (1.0-5.0 mg/l), the following results were obtained. Bud proliferation in shoot apex explants began after 12-14 days of incubation. The largest number of shoot buds (1.9) was observed at 2.0 mg/l, while the lowest (1.3) was observed at 1.0 mg/l of 2,4-D. (Fig. 4). At higher concentrations (4.0-5.0 mg/l), bud induction was entirely suppressed (Table 1).\r\nAuxins elicited a substantial difference in response in pomegranate explants as cytokinins in the current study. Auxins (IAA/2,4-D) generated shoot bud and callus in the nodal segment and shoot apex, but only callus proliferation was observed in leaf explants. Fougat et al. (1997) reported callus induction in pomegranate cotyledon and leaf explants.\r\nOne of the most essential aspects in optimising the tissue culture technique is the type of explant. Explants such as leaf, petiole, cotyledonary leaf, hypocotyle, epicotyle, embryo, internode, and root have a substantial impact on plant tissue culture. Several factors influence an explant\'s in vitro response, including the organ from which it was produced, the explant\'s physiological state and its size. Shoot bud differentiation, callus induction, root induction, and organogenesis may all be affected by the orientation of the explant on the medium and the inoculation density (Khan et al., 1988; Sujatha and Mukta 1996; Gubis et al. 2003; Alagumanian et al., 2004; Ali and Mirza 2006; Kumar et al., 2011). This may be due to the different level of endogenous plant hormones present in the plants parts. \r\nIn this study, cytokinins (BAP/Kn) and auxins (IAA/2,4-D) were applied to nodal segment, shoot apex, and leaf explants. Under MS media supplemented with 2.0 mg/l BAP, nodal segment explants had the most shoot proliferation of all the explants. These findings are consistent with those published in pomegranate by Kalalbandi et al., (2014).\r\n','Choudhary R., Jakhar M.L., Kumar R., Shekhawat K., Kumawat S. and Choudhary S. (2022). In Vitro Shoot Proliferation from Different Explants in Pomegranate (Punica granatum L.). Biological Forum – An International Journal, 14(2): 97-102.'),(4801,'125','Effect of Bioactive Compounds on Seed and Oil Content of Brassica Genotypes','Priyanka Sharma*, Monish Roy and Bidhan Roy','19 Effect of Bioactive Compounds on Seed and Oil Content of Brassica Genotypes Priyanka Sharma.pdf','',1,'Rapeseed and mustard belongs to the own circle of relatives particularly brassicaceae or cruciferae are an essential oilseed crop and presently ranked third because it is the world’s most crucial oilseed crop in terms of production and area. Among the species, Brassica napus and Brassica campestris appears as rapeseed while Brassica juncea is considered under the category of Indian mustard. Rapeseed (B. napus subsp. napus) is a bright-yellow flowering family member of Brassicaceae (mustard or cabbage own circle of relatives), cultivated specifically for its oil-wealthy seed, which certainly incorporates considerable quantities of erucic acid. Rapeseed oil is one of the oldest recognised vegetable oils, however traditionally it is utilized in constrained portions due to the presence of excessive degrees of erucic acid. Consequently, erucic acid constraints of mustard seeds have been recognised for a longer period of time however, it has become deliberately no longer managed or overlooked. Therefore, in the recent years, research have been currently focussed on developing those genotypes which can be exploited in plant breeding programmes for improvement of nutritionally higher pleasant regionally adaptive cultivars. Since oil containing excessive quantity of erucic acid is undesirable for human consumption, therefore improvement of genotypes that are devoid of erucic acid content material and a few different biologically energetic compounds of their oil and glucosinolate in meal is breeding targets of this oilseed crop. In addition, breeding goals should also emphasize on the development and release of these low erucic acid genotypes by crossing two superior genotypes. Since humans consume various biologically active compounds including isothiocyanates, bisphenol F, erucic acid, or allergens that are naturally present in mustard seeds and its by-products, therefore based on the concerned problems, additional importance should be given on research including selection of suitable superior genotypes and techniques of reducing bioactive compounds particularly erucic acid in seed and oil as well as minimizing their harmful effects on metabolic function of human body have been particularly reviewed in this paper.','Rapeseed, Mustard, Erucic Acid, Linoleic Acid, Oil Quality, Bioactive compounds, Human consumption, Epideomological studies','Based on the study of nutritive values and its functional properties of rapeseed and mustard seed, it can be concluded that the utilization of mustard seeds and its value-added products would increase enormously in the future considering its biologically active compounds assets. Additionally, breeders have developed those Brassica genotypes that are low in erucic acid content and other biologically active compounds and have given much priority on research that are based on reduction of other bioactive compounds including unsaturated fatty acids and medium chain fatty acids in addition to reducing health problems with accumulation of 2% erucic acid in mustard seeds and oil. Reviews contained in this manuscript are mainly focused on the concept of accumulation of appropriate content of erucic acid with respect to concentration of saturated fat, trans fat, ratio of linoleic (ω6) and linolenic (ω3) acids, saturated fatty acids (SFA) / fatty acids mono unsaturated fatty acids (MUFA) / polyunsaturated fatty acids (PUFA) ratio, concentration of anti-nutritional factors including erucic acid, glucosinolates, phytic acid, synaptic acid and tannins etc., presence of various phenolic compounds that are responsible for functioning as an antioxidants and taste determinants, decrease in the fibre content of seed meals, association of glucosinolates with different biotic and abiotic stress and other biological activities, including anticancer activities, due to the presence of isothiocyanates. ','INTRODUCTION\r\nRapeseed is an important oilseed crop that has been considered as an essential source of vegetable oil, as well as the second largest oilseed crop after soybean (FAO, 2007). Among the nine major oilseed crops widely grown in India, rapeseed and mustard occupies the second most important position after soybean because of its greater sustainability and adaptability to varied agro-ecological situations (Choudhary et al., 2022). In India, mustard crop is broadly cultivated in Rabi season from September-October to February-March. Sandy loams to clay loam soils are considered suitable for cultivation but thrive best on light loamy soils. Soils having neutral pH are ideal for their proper growth and development (Meena et al., 2022). The major reason for gaining popularity of rapeseed worldwide is largely because of the improvements in seed oil and meal quality. Seed oil and flour, derived from it is extremely appreciable due to the presence of low levels of saturated fatty acids approximately 7% and unsaturated fatty acids on which cholesterol-free oils from rapeseed and mustard have the best quality nutritional value among whole oilseeds (Thomas et al., 2012). From a nutritional point of view, linoleic acid is considered the most essential unsaturated fatty acid and must be absorbed by the human body through food consumption because it cannot be synthesized naturally within the body. \r\nThe quality of oilseed oil, especially rapeseed, depends mainly on the presence of saturated and unsaturated fatty acid compounds, including linolenic acid, erucic acid and oleic acid as well as fatty acids medium chain in addition to varietal breeding and therefore the breeding goals must mainly focus on improving its quantity and quality (Divakaran et al., 2016). Comparison of rapeseed mustard oil with other oilseed crops in terms of bioactive compounds have been presented in Table 1 (Kumar et al., 2014). In terms of genotypes, highest percentage of erucic acid (50%) is present in Indian mustard (B. juncea). But for consumption purpose, erucic acid content of less than 2% is highly preferable. Indian mustard is commonly known as raya and cytologically it is an amphidiploid crop (2n=36) derived from natural chromosomal doubling of interspecific cross between Brassica nigra (2n=16) and Brassica campestris (2n=20) (Choudhary et al., 2022). As per the results obtained by the researchers in terms of selection of suitable genotypes, it was observed that the new rapeseed cultivars consisted of more than 60% oleic acid and 10-20% linoleic acid while the percentage of linolenic acid had decreased (10%) (FAO, 2021). The main objective of oil quality modification is to produce oils with improved nutritional and functional properties. \r\nAccording to Mollers in 2004, several genotypes of rapeseed with fatty acid composition (Fig. 2) are available for different purposes (Table 2) (Rai et al., 2018). \r\nMustard oil can be used in two different forms; as a fatty vegetable oil and an essential oil from pressing and grinding of the seeds as well as from extraction of volatile oil by distillation. Quality is a relative term and should be defined in the context of the scope, e.g.,: a variety is high in oleic acid, but the same variety may be deficient in linolenic acid. The nutritional quality of rapeseed and mustard seeds is determined by several factors such as oil content and its fatty acid constituents, protein content, amino acid concentration, crude fibre and various anti-nutritional factors including glucosinolates, phytic acid and synaptin. It is also determined by the content of fatty acids, oleic acid, linoleic acid and erucic acid. Mustard oil is not considered safe for human consumption in the United States, Canada and the European Union due to its high erucic acid content thereby leading to toxicity, while in India, it is mustard oil that is usually heated first to be used for cooking, which helps in reducing the content of harmful substances without any reduction in strong smell and taste. As per the study conducted by several researchers, oil content of Brassica species ranged from 40% to 46.7% (Kumar et al., 1980).\r\nIn rapeseed and mustard, there is a presence of saturated fatty acids with single bonds and unsaturated fatty acids with double and triple bonds. Edible oils composed of a higher concentration of saturated fatty acids are considered harmful for human health. As per the reports of EFSA, 2016 and Ackman et al. (1977), it has come to a conclusion that due to its high intake of erucic acid in the diet, it causes decreased myocardial conductance, myocardial fibrosis, lipidosis and increased blood cholesterol. Its anti-nutritional property is mainly attributed to its metabolic inertia, since it does not allow entering the stage of beta-oxidation to produce ATP (Rogers, 1978). In the recent years, people get conscious about their healthy diet upon consumption of food and primarily focus on essential fatty acids, blood lipid management, maintenance of endocrine and immune function, inflammation control, metabolic effects etc (Bhoge, 2015). Thus, oils containing less than 2% acid erucic acids are considered suitable for consumption. Consequently, palmitoleic acid is an important intermediate component in the synthesis of long chain (n-7) fatty acids as reported by Bhogal et al. (2014). \r\nAccording to the research conducted by Przybylski and Mag in 2002, there has been an enormous growth in rapeseed production over the past forty years due to its low erucic acid (docosenoic acid 22:1: cis-13) and glucosinolates content. In India, the restriction on excessive use of mustard oil is in view and foreign multinationals have attempted to replace mustard oil with canola oil, which is also regarded as low erucic acid variety of canola. People in northern India have used it for centuries and disagreed about the enough evidence of erucic acid toxicity and have put into confliction that mustard oil is beneficial for human health due to its lower concentration of saturated fatty acids, ideal ratio between omega 3 and omega 6 fatty acids (15 g of omega 3 fatty acids per 100 g serving), antioxidants and vitamin E, as well as it is cold pressed (extracted at 45-50 degrees Celsius). For obtaining good quality oil as well as for imparting longer shelf life, rapeseed mustard oil consisting of high oleic and low linolenic acid is considered to be superior. Edible oil also should have higher ratio of oleic to linoleic fatty acid and linoleic (ω-6) to linolenic (ω-3) fatty acid (Kumar and Bala, 2013). Since oil containing higher amount of erucic acid is undesirable for human consumption, therefore development of commercial varieties free from erucic acid content in their oil and glucosinolate in meal is breeding objectives in this oilseed crop. \r\nRecommendation for use of rapeseed and mustard oil in addition to seed meal for consumption purpose is comparatively different from that of industrial requirements in terms of presence of lower concentration of saturated fat, higher content of oleic acid, balanced ratio of saturated fatty acid/monounsaturated fatty acid/polyunsaturated fatty acid and antioxidants and absence of trans-fat and minimum anti-nutritional factors. On the other hand, some of the anti-nutritional factors are known to be in relation with some plant defence system and other important biological functions. Due to these factors, the investigation on crop quality research have brought to a higher level with an objective of producing particular crops specific for consumption and industrial purpose.\r\nEvolution of Erucic Acid in Rapeseed. The amphidiploid species, B. napus (2n=38) containing erucic acid had been developed by using genes (Siebel and Pauls, 1989). Confirmation of 22:1 digenic inheritance in B. juncea as suggested by Kirk and Hurlstone in the year 1983 had turned into B. carinata. The 22:1 content material of oilseed rape (B. napus) is managed by using one-, one- or - and -loci alleles thereby resulting in 5-10%, 10-35%, and more than 35 percent 22:1, respectively. These results are in confirmity with the results of several researchers including Jonsson (1977) and Pourdad and Sachan (2003). The erucic acid content in rapeseed population containing two loci particularly controlled by the alleles is determined by using random fragment length polymorphism (RFLP) and random amplified polymorphic DNA (RAPD) markers respectively (Stefansson 1983; Jourdren et al., 1996). Similarly, Thormann et al., (1996) studied and concluded that venture of the 2 loci to unbiased linkage companies had turned into a quantitative trait locus (QTL). However, loci do now no longer make a contribution similar to erucic acid content. Various alleles appear at every locus and at least 5 alleles govern erucic acid in Brassica, including; Ea, Eb, Ec and Ed (Anand et al., 1981). Therefore, erucic acid ranges may be set at a huge range of values starting from more than 1% to much less than 60% (Jonsson, 1977).\r\nChemical Structure of Erucic acid. Erucic acid is a mono-unsaturated fatty acid designated by its chemical formula CH3 (CH2) 7CH=CH (CH2)11COOH. It is abundantly available in the seeds of wallflower as reported by Sahasrabudhe (1977) and contains about 20-54% high erucic acid in rapeseed oil and 42% erucic acid in mustard oil. It is also known as cis-13 docosenoic acid and its trans-isomer is known as brassidic acid. It is a natural unbranched fatty acid, composed of 22 carbon atoms and a double bond in cis configuration on C13, chemically known as cis-13 docosenoic acid (Russo et al., 2021) as shown in Fig. 1. Based on the results concluded by Abbott et al. (2003), it could be clearly indicated that foods that are rich in erucic acid, after consumption by humans, have a pessimistic impact on health since erucic acid is classified as a natural toxicant. Due to accumulation of triacyl glycerol, it causes harmful effects on heart because of insufficient oxidation as reported by Bremer et al. (1982). It might also lead to reduced contractility in heart muscle due to myocardial lipidosis according to recent reports (Knutsen et al., 2017). They had also reported harmful effects of cardiac damage caused by insufficient metabolic degradation involving a reversible process by avoiding erucic acid consumption. According to the European Union Council Directive Reports in 1976 and Technical Report Series in 2003, highest levels of erucic acid had been developed in Western countries since 1970. \r\nThe European Union had introduced a maximum level of 5% contribution of erucic acid to total fatty acids in edible oils and added fats in 1976 (EU Council Directive 1976). Even stricter limit values had been set in Australia and New Zealand keeping in view of intake of maximum levels of erucic acid (2%) in oils as well as tolerable daily intake (TDI) of 7.5 mg/kg of body weight of erucic acid. (Technical Studies Reports Series, 2003). The primary objective of these laws is to differentiate traditional breeds of rapeseed containing more than 50% of total fatty acids commonly referred to as high erucic acid (HEAR) canola from newer breeds of rapeseed known as low erucic acid canola. (LEAR). Example: Canola oil. Efforts to reduce erucic acid content in rapeseed by the Canadian began in 1959 and according to the results observed by Eskin in 2003, it was concluded that the first successful LEAR cultivars were obtained in 1968. According to CODEXSTAN 210–1999, lower concentration of erucic acid in rapeseed genotypes contains a maximum of 2% erucic acid. The low rape seed oil is valuable edible oil due to its beneficial composition of fatty acid in combination with low omega-6 and high omega-3 thus producing a favorable report N6 / N3 of ~ 2 (Eskin, 2003). Wendlinger et al., (2014) conducted research on mustard oils and reported that oil samples containing 5% erucic acid, was considered well above the European Union limit. Rastogi et al., (2004) had confirmed that mustard oil in Europe is rarely used as edible oil compared to Asia and northern India and presence of high erucic acid in mustard oils is unexpected (Abul Fadl et al., 2011). Wendlinger et al., (2014) stated that two 20 g servings of table mustard could exceed Australian TDI of erucic acid, in terms of juveniles due to lower body weight than adults. Oram et al., (2005) conducted research and concluded that mustard seeds containing 45% erucic acid were recommended for cooking and storing, while 23% erucic acid was specifically recommended for table mustard. Among mustard varieties, brown mustard varieties (B. juncea) had the lowest erucic acid content, while white and black mustard varieties had uniformly high levels of erucic acid (Eskin et al., 2003). Although erucic acid problems have been well known for some time, but the problem is still not been controlled at all and these relationships are consistent with the studies conducted by the researchers including Oram et al., (2005), indicating Indian experts have highlighted this problem by stating health implications associated with erucic acid consumption and was not been observed in the Indian population. It had also been indicated that high α-linolenic acid content may compensate for the erucic acid content (Rastogi et al., 2004). Erucic acid can be produced by the elongation of two coenzymes particularly oleoyl coenzyme A and malonyl coenzyme A. In addition, erucic acid has the potentiality in breaking down long chain to short chain fatty acids known as acyl coenzyme dehydrogenase enzyme present in human liver. In April 2010, the US Department had reported that a maximum of 2% erucic acid was regulated in rapeseed canola oil, canola oil, low erucic acid canola oil, and rapeseed oil, equivalent of canola oil and were also in accordance with the regulations conducted by the Commission of European Communities in 1980, indicating a maximum of 5% erucic acid was regulated for baby foods. Canola is derived from a cross between low erucic acid (B. napus and B. rapa) rapeseed cultivars specifically developed by Stefansson in the year 1983 at the University of Manitoba, Canada. The word \"Canola\" has been derived from \"can\" in \"Canada\" and \"ola\", meaning \"oil with low acidity\".\r\nSources of Erucic Acid. The name ‘erucic acid’ had been derived from the word \"erca\" which is a kind of flowering plants of the Brassicaceae family. The genus includes Eruca sativa, commonly known as rocket is a native to the United States or rocket from the United Kingdom. The erucic acid production process is a natural process with certain other fatty acids through green plants that belong to the members of the genus Brassica. Erucic acid can be used in different ways, for example for industrial purposes, food purposes containing low erucic acid canola commonly known as LEAR developed in rapeseed and specifically composed of fats derived from oleic acid instead of erucic acid (Anneken et al., 2006). Major emphasis on varietal development should be associated with various quality parameters including different grades of oil comprising less than 7% saturated fat, 70% oleic acid, 40-50% linoleic (high linoleic ) and erucic acid \'0\' (less than 2%) meant for consumer purposes, industrial purposes, including high grade stearic acid of 20-40% for margarines, very low grade linolenic acid particularly less than 3% for extended shelf life and margarine and high erucic acid (40-50%) for polymers, lubricants and industrial plastics industries and more than 50% erucic acid for cosmetics and pharmaceuticals.\r\nProportions of Erucic Acid in Mustard Cultivars. Based on the study conducted in terms of selection of trait specific genotypes, Golam et al., (2006) had stated that the variety Barisarisha 8 from B. napus had considerably (P < 0.001) low ranges of erucic acid and excessive ranges of oleic, linoleic, and linolenic acids. The erucic acid content (22:1) varies broadly from 21.9% to 51.57%. While on the alternative hand, varieties including Binasarisha-3, Binasarisha-4, Binasarisha-5, MM 221298, MM 21698, MM 36698, MM 49398, MM 34798 and Barisarisha-8 had a considerably low level (P = e 0.001) of erucic acid (21.9%–36.32%). These results are opposite to what had been stated by several researchers including Abdellatif and Vles (1971). As consistent with the reviews stated so far by Kaul et al., (1986) it could be concluded that the cultivars particularly Tori-7, Safal, Agrani and Rai-5 incorporate 46.70–51.90% erucic acid, while Barisarisha-8 contained the bottom quantity of erucic acid (36.4%). It had been found significantly similar with the results of Koyama in 1978 that huge part of oleic acid had transformed to erucic acid in rapeseed and mustard seed oils. Similar effects had been found in cauliflower by Ahuja in the year 1987 and Agarwal et al., (2003) in Indian mustard (B. juncea).\r\nToxicological and Anti-nutritional Effects of Biologically Active Compounds on Mustard seeds. In addition to imparting flavour to foods, humans consume several biologically active compounds including isothiocyanates, bisphenol F, erucic acid, or allergens found in mustard seeds and its by-products, thereby possessing harmful effects on human health. It is due to the fact that it contains several toxicological or undesirable bioactive compounds particularly responsible for causing health problems. Bioactive compounds, especially long-chain fatty acids (erucic acid) appearing in esterified or serum albumin form, are gradually transported into human cells and tissues and eventually gets synthesized into lipoproteins. \r\nThis long-chain fatty acid predominently acts as compounds for building energy in the heart and skeletal muscle and undergoes the process of mitochondrial beta oxidation. However, oxidation potential of mitochondrial beta-oxidation in erucic acid is reduced to less than 18 carbon atoms. It is mainly due to less utilization of urocyl coenzyme A by mitochondrial acyl coenzyme A dehydrogenase; For example, when an erucic acid is activated directly as a substrate through human heart for energy acquisition, level of mitochondria in the human heart decreases (Clouet et al., 1979). Higher consumption of fatty acids, particularly erucic acid, reduces the process of activation of acyl groups of coenzyme A into carnitine that acts as a preliminary phase of beta-oxidation (Clouet et al., 1979). Another example of epidemiological studies that are based on adverse effects of consumption of higher levels of biologically active compounds including docosenic acid (22:1) and nerve acid (24:1) in plasma phospholipids leads to the developmental congestive heart failure which aids in the formation of cardiac toxicity in human heart (Imamura et al., 2013). Based on the survey conducted by the EFSA Panel on Contaminants in the Food Chain (CONTAM), it was significantly analysed that consumption of oilseeds containing a higher concentration of erucic acid is considered toxic because it is strongly associated with the incidence of lipidosis in humans, particularly responsible for cardiac toxicity (EFSA, 2016).\r\n In addition, it is also responsible for myocardial fibrosis and increase in the level of blood cholesterol. Its anti-nutritional property does not allow entering into the beta-oxidation pathway in order to produce ATP (Rogers, 1978). Therefore, consumption of oilseeds containing high erucic acid content has been restricted by several regulatory agencies. Another international regulatory agency namely \"The Australia New Zealand Food Standards Code (FSANZ) has deemed that consumption of more than 2% erucic acid in the form of edible oils is considered undesirable for humans (FSANZ, 2016). Similar regulations had been applied by the European Union and due to this reason these agencies have fixed some policies and regulations not to exceed more than 2% erucic acid content in mustard oil for consumption purpose.\r\nNutritional benefits of Mustard seeds. Based on the study of significance of mustard seeds particularly white or unheroic mustard (Sinapsis alba) and brown mustard (Brassica juncea) from nutritive and functional perspective, it can be estimated that food and the beverage industries at the current situation is extensively arising. Moreover, presence of bioactive compounds similar to isothiocyanates in mustard seeds act as an implicit source of nutrition and is also responsible for imparting flavour in foods. Hence, in the recent times, graph indicating foods and beverage industries are in an increasing trend. \r\nMethods of Reduction of Erucic Acid Content in Oilseed Crops. Production and activation of long-chain fatty acids (erucic acid) in mustard seeds primarily depends on several biotic and abiotic factors particularly cultivation techniques, varietal selection, total oil content, pedoclimatic conditions as well as morphological and physiological factors (Mandal, 2002). Therefore, breeding goals should be emphasized entirely on the development and release of these low erucic acid genotypes by crossing two superior genotypes (Burton, 2003). Another aspect of reducing erucic acid content in edible oil is the natural production of alpha-linolenic acid in mustard seeds which ultimately helps in balancing the ratio of erucic acid content (Rastogi et al., 2004).\r\nGlobal Quality Standards. Based on the legislation conducted by the World Health Organization / Food and Agriculture Organization, it has been confirmed that the percentage of saturated fatty acids must be less than 7% indicating a sum of C16: 0 + C 18: 0 + C 20: 0 + C 22: 0 etc. On the other hand, percentage of oleic acid content must be high (C18:1). In terms of saturated fatty acids (SFA), monounsaturated fatty acids (MUFA) and polyunsaturated fatty acids, ratio should be within the range of 1:13:1, while the PUFA: SFA ratio should be within the range 0.8-1.0. Consequently, in terms of linoleic acid and linolenic acid content, it should be in the 5-10 range. However, presence of antioxidants, including tocopherols, in mustard oil further helps in oxidation process. Therefore, consumption of oil and seed meal containing erucic acid lower than 2% and glucosinolates less than 30μmole/g have been proven to be beneficial and nontoxic to human health (Thacker, 1990).\r\n\r\n','Priyanka Sharma, Monish Roy and Bidhan Roy (2022). Effect of Bioactive Compounds on Seed and Oil Content of Brassica Genotypes. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 14(2): 103-110.'),(4802,'125','Effect of Seaweed Sap Foliar Application on AGR, CGR and RGR of Maize (Zea mays L.) Cultivars','M.R. Meshram*, Joy Dawson, Shikha Singh and Lipi Rina','20 Effect of Seaweed Sap Foliar Application on AGR, CGR and RGR of Maize Zea mays L Cultivars M. R. Meshram.pdf','',1,'A field experiment was conducted during zaid season of 2020 and 2021 at crop research farm in Department of Agronomy, Naini Agricultural Institute, SHUATS, Prayagraj on sandy loam soil to investigate the response of seaweed sap foliar application on maize cultivars under eastern Uttar Pradesh condition. For maize production in India, main constraints is with limited resources increase production and productivity. Cultivar with more productivity potential and to achieve production, fulfill crop nutrient requirement prepare suitable soil and plant environment through seaweed now a day’s scientifically recommended. The experiment was laid out in Split Plot Design along with two factor viz., four maize cultivar (VMH-27, VMH-53, VLMH-57 and VLQPMH-59) as main plot and two seaweed (Kappaphycus sp. & Sargassum sp) sap at different concentration (5%, 7.5% & 10%) as sub-plot factor treatment along with one water spray and their combination of 28 treatments replicated thrice. Study revealed from pooled analysis of both the years that maximum accumulate growth rate (AGR) (0.69, 4.60 and 1.41 g/days), crop growth rate (CGR) (6.87, 46.05 and 14.13 g/m2/day) at 20-40, 40-60 DAS and 80 DAS-At harvest and relative growth rate (RGR) (0.149, 0.008) at 20-40 DAS and 80 DAS-At harvest were recorded under cultivar V3: VLMH-57 which was found statistically superior among rest of cultivars, respectively. While in case of seaweed sap foliar application maximum accumulate growth rate (AGR) (0.72, 4.54, 2.94 and 1.05 g/days), crop growth rate (CGR) (7.17, 45.39, 29.39 and 10.50 g/m2/day) and relative growth rate (RGR) (0.153, 0.022) were recorded statistically superior by S7: S-Seaweed sap 10% foliar application at 20-40 DAS, and 40-60 DAS, respectively. It is clearly concluded that from the experiment the maize cultivars V3: VLMH-57 sprayed with S7: S-Seaweed sap 10% concentration significantly affect growth indices and produced maximum vegetative growth.','Cultivars, growth indices, AGR, CGR, RGR, Seaweed','The research findings on the basis of two years experimentation reveal that the different cultivars of maize along with seaweed foliar application have the potential to influence yield of maize. Hence, it can be concluded from the two year experiment that the maize cultivars V3: VLMH-57 sprayed with S7: S-Seaweed sap 10% concentration significantly affect growth indices and produced maximum vegetative growth.','INTRODUCTION\r\nMaize (Zea mays L.) is an important cereal crop in world ranking third after wheat and rice. It is a member of family Gramineae (Poaeceae) sub family Panicoideae. The importance of maize lies in its wide industrial applications besides serving as human food and animal feed. Globally, maize is referred as ‘Miracle crop’ or ‘Queen of the Cereals’ due to its high productivity potential compared to other Poaceae family members (Singh et al., 2021). Maize is the third most important food grain in India after rice and wheat. Maize was grown in Uttar Pradesh, during 2015-16 over an area of 20,000 ha with productivity of 2610 kg/ha (Anonymous, 2016). However its area fluctuates between 10,000-20,000 ha. The main reasons for fluctuation in acreage and production of this crop are: deficit or excess moisture, prevailing high temperatures, cloudiness which favour incidence of insect pests, weeds, diseases and restricts sunshine hours for photosynthesis, rainfall which washes off the pollens and leaches the fertilizers nutrients.\r\nCultivars is one of the most important aspects of management in agricultural system, which can affect yield through influencing emergence date, plant density, normal growth, pollination and maturing date. Maize has the advantage to develop both in winter and pre-rainstorm seasons due to its facultative nature to day-length. It becomes challenging to meet out the increasing demand of maize in sustainable manner without impairing the soil fertility, as it is a very heavy feeder of nutrients due to C4 type plant, hence the nutrient requirement is very high. But in Indian situation, farmers socio economic condition is so poor that they are unable to full fill the nutrient demand of crop for getting maximum yield. A major barrier is farmers\' lack of information and awareness about the production and benefits of these novel and early maturing varieties with good agronomic practises and potential yield. The terms adaptability and stability are often used interchangeably. The extent of scale or rank shift in their performance across or specific environment is minimised by diversity. As a result, it\'s critical to adapt these medium- and early-maturing maize types to the research area (Abduselam, et al., 2017). Sulochana et al., (2015) reported that treatments consist of three dates of sowing (June 15, June 30 and July 15) with five maize varieties (HQPM-1, PEHM-2, Pratap Makka-5, Pratap QPM-1 and BIO-9637). The crop sown on June 15 required a significantly higher number of days and accumulated GDD to attain various phenophases compared to June 30 and July 15 sown crops. June 30 sown crop recorded grain yield (50.87 q/ha) significantly higher under June 15 and July 15 sown crops. BIO-9637 required maximum accumulated growing degree days (GDD) to attain different phenological stages of maize except knee- high stage. Among the varieties, BIO-9637 recorded grain yield (51.78 q/ha) significantly higher over HQPM-1, PEHM-2, Pratap QPM-1 and Pratap Makka-5. Another researcher group of Girshe et al. (2017) was also found among nine improved varieties, including BH661, BH547, BH546, Limu, G2, G3, MH140, MHQ138, M6Q, and a Local cultivar, were planted on 4.5m × 2.5m plots with 75cm × 25cm spacing. Variety BH546 has the maximum amount of gains per row (40.94). The largest cob length for the BH661 variety was 21.13 cm. A local variety had the highest plant height of 2.90 cm. The highest grain yield (10459 kg/ha) was achieved by the variety BH547. As a result, variety BH547 outperformed the others in terms of yield and other critical yield components.\r\nSeaweeds were the microalgae found along the ocean\'s coast. They were typically found near the coast, adhering to whatever substratum they could find. In terms of ecology, they provide a living and feeding environment for the majority of aquatic animals. Green, brown, and red seaweeds are the three sorts. They are beneficial to the human population for a variety of reasons, including food, fertilizers, and medications (Temkar et al., 2018). Sea weeds have proved effective in enhancing yield, pest and frost resistance in vegetables, fruits, flowers, cereals and pulses. Increased germination percent and rate, increased seedling vigor, increased shoot and root growth, increased net carbon assimilation and ultimately total grain yield. Sea weeds (Kppaphycus alvarezii and Sargassum wightii) extricate has been discovered wealthy in supplements including plant development controllers for example IAA, kinetin, zeatine, auxin, cytokinin and gibberellins (Zodape et al., 2010 and Layek et al., 2016). The compound auxin plays a role in physiological processes in plants, such as growth, cell division and differentiation, and protein synthesis. Cytokinin plays an important role in cell division which causes a plant response with respect to plant growth, fruit formation and sprout germination (Fatriana et al., 2020). Sea weed sap is a less expensive wellspring of supplement just as natural in nature which will deal with soil wellbeing and climate as well. Seaweed Liquid Fertilizer (SLF) is a blend of both plant growth regulators and organic nutrient input is eco-friendly, promoting sustainable productivity and maintaining soil health (Mohanty et al., 2013 and Shah, et al., 2013). \r\nJader et al. (2020) noticed that from field experiment was conducted during spring seasons of 2017 and 2018 in Iraq to study the effect of foliar spraying of seaweed extracts on growth traits and grain yield of four genotypes of yellow corn. The corn genotypes differed significantly in respect to growth and yield traits. The corn genotype 5017 produced significantly higher growth and yield traits compared to other genotypes during both the years. The spraying of corn plants with seaweed extract @ 6 ml/l produced significantly higher leaf area, length of cob, number of grains/cob and grain yield per plant in 2017 and 2018, respectively. And concluded that genotype 5017 sprayed with seaweed extract @ 6 ml/l excelled over other genotypes in respect of growth and yield.\r\nTherefore, in view of the above, the present investigation were undertaken with an aim to evaluate the effect of seaweed sap foliar application on AGR, CGR and RGR of maize (Zea mays L) cultivars to encourage sustainable development under eastern Uttar Pradesh condition. \r\nMATERIALS AND METHODS\r\nThe experiment was carried out during zaid season of 2020 and 2021 at Crop Research Farm (CRF), Department of Agronomy, Naini Agricultural Institute, SHUATS, Prayagraj (25° 3942N and 81°6756E and 98m altitude) on sandy clay loam soil of eastern Uttar Pradesh condition. The experimental soil initially before sowing crop was nearly neutral in soil reaction (pH – 7.28 and 7.15, low in organic carbon (0.37% and 0.29%) medium in available Nitrogen (226.49 and 210.66 kg/ha), medium in available Phosphorous (16.90 and 18.44 kg/ha) and low in available Potassium (192.20 and 196.39 kg/ha) during zaid seasons of 2020 and 2021. Prayagraj belongs to sub-tropical and semi-arid climatic condition, with both extremes of temperature, i.e., winter and summer. The summer season lasts from April to June with the maximum temperatures ranging from 40°C (104°F) to 45°C (113 °F). Monsoon begins in early July and lasts till September. The experiment was laid out in split plot design with twenty eight treatments replicated thrice. The main plot comprised of 4 cultivars i.e. (a) VMH-27 (b) VMH-53 (c) VLMH-57 and (d) VLQPMH-59 and in subplot 3 concentrations (5%, 7.5% and 10%) of both Seaweed sap (Kappaphycus sp. & Sargassum sp.) foliar applications along with water spray. The amount of different fertilizers required to supply the needed quantities of nutrients were calculated on per plot basis as per recommended dose of fertilizer. The growth indices i.e. Accumulate growth rate (AGR), Crop growth rate (CGR) and Relative growth rate (RGR) was evaluated as per standard process. Measurement of Absolute growth rate (AGR) was calculated by adopting the formula suggested by Kvet et al. (1971), formula: AGR (g/plant/day) = (𝑊2 − 𝑊1)/(𝑇2 − 𝑇1) and expressed in g/plant/day. Crop growth rate (CGR) is in the increase in plant dry materials per unit area of land per unit time. CGR values were estimated at 20-day interval as described by Watson (1952), CGR was arrived at using the formula CGR (g/m2/day) = [(𝑊2 − 𝑊1)/(𝑇2 − 𝑇1)][1/S], where 𝑊1 is total dry weight at time 𝑇1 and 𝑊2 is the total dry weight at time 𝑇2 and S is the ground spacing and expressed in g/m2/day. The RGR was determined by adopting the formula suggested by Williams (1946), RGR (g/g/day) = (ln 𝑊1 −ln 𝑊2)/(𝑇1 −𝑇2), where 𝑊1 is total dry weight at time 𝑇1, 𝑊2 is total dry weight at time 𝑇2, and ln is natural logarithm and expressed in g/g/day. All the data were subjected to analysis of variance (ANOVA) by using a split-plot design and main effects and interactions were tested for significance. Treatment means obtained by ANOVA were compared using critical difference (CD) at P=0.05 level of significance (Gomez and Gomez, 1984).\r\nRESULTS AND DISCUSSION\r\nA. Effect of seaweed sap foliar application on accumulate growth rate (AGR) of Maize cultivars\r\nPeriodical observation of data concerned with absolute growth rate (AGR, g/days) has been depicted in Table 1. The maize cultivars at initially showed significant effect on absolute growth rate at 20-40 40-60 DAS and 80 DAS-At harvest influence significantly among experimental cultivars. However at 60-80 DAS showed non-significant effect. Absolute growth rate 0.73, 4.69 and 1.49 g/plant/day were recorded significantly maximum with cultivar V3: VLMH-57 at 20-40, 40-60 and 80 DAS-at harvest and found significantly superior among rest of the cultivars. While in case of Seaweed sap, maximum absolute growth rate 0.72, 4.54, 2.94 and 1.05 g/plant/day were recorded significantly with S7: S-Seaweed sap 10% foliar application which was statistically at par to foliar application of S4: K-Seaweed sap 10% at 20-40, 40-60, 60-80 DAS and 80 DAS – At harvest. Growth hormones from algae extract play a role in the absorption of nutrients by plants efficiently (Basavaraja et al., 2018). Availability of macro and micro nutrient components in seaweed are transferred during the generative phase and which can stimulate the formation of the corn effectively (Pal et al., 2015).\r\nB. Effect of seaweed sap foliar application on crop growth rate (CGR) of Maize cultivars\r\nCrop growth rate (CGR) express as the gain in weight of plant per unit of land per unit of time. The data pertaining to crop growth rate computed at periodic intervals as influenced by various treatments displayed in Table 2.\r\nIt is apparent from the data that the improved cultivars of maize exerted significant influence on crop growth rate at all the growth stages except 60 – 80 DAS. Among the different cultivars, the maximum crop growth rate 6.49, 45.19 and 13.39 g/m2/day were recorded by cultivar V3: VLMH-57 at 20-40 DAS, 40-60 DAS, and 80-at harvest, while at 40-60 DAS, crop growth rate with V2: VMH-53 and V4: VLQPMH-59 were found statistically at par with cultivar V3: VLMH-57. Seaweed sap foliar application significantly influenced the crop growth rate throughout the stages of crop growth till harvest. The higher CGR obtained during the study under the treatments is the reflection of higher amount of dry matter accumulation in respective periods. The highest crop growth rate (CGR) 7.17, 45.39, 29.39 and 10.5 g/m2/day were recorded with concentration S7: S-Seaweed sap 10% foliar application which was closely followed by foliar application of S4: K-Seaweed sap 10% at 20-40, 40-60, 60-80 DAS and 80 DAS – at harvest. The increased Crop Growth Rate (CGR), may be due to the fact that, along with improved cultivars sea weed extract help to enhance growth by providing essential nutrient. Devi et al., (2015) revealed that seaweed extract mainly contains amino acids like betaines and sterols which enhance the photosynthetic activity, N metabolism and protein synthesis which boost corn production, and also availability of growth regulators in extract especially Auxin and Cytokinin which are responsible for inter-nodal elongation and cell enlargement and there by increases the growth. Similar findings also reported by Hegde et al. (2016).\r\nC. Effect of seaweed sap foliar application on relative growth rate (RGR) of Maize cultivars\r\nRelative growth rate (RGR) express is an index of the amount of growing material incorporated per unit dry weight of plant per unit of time. The data pertaining to relative growth rate was computed at periodic intervals as influenced by various treatments displayed in Table 3. Perusal of the data revealed that the improved cultivars of maize exerted non-significant influence on relative growth rate at all the growth stages except 20-40 DAS interval. Among the different cultivars, V3: VLMH-57 was significantly recorded higher value of relative growth rate as compared to other cultivars at 20-40 DAS which was followed by V1: VMH-27. Seaweed sap foliar application significantly influenced the relative growth rate (RGR) at 20-40 DAS. \r\nThe highest relative growth rate (RGR) (0.153) was recorded under foliar application of S7: S-Seaweed sap 10% which was significantly superior among all rest of the foliar application except it was followed by foliar application of S3: K-Seaweed sap 7.5%, S4: K-Seaweed sap 10% and S6: S-Seaweed sap 7.5% at 20-40 DAS. The highest RGR was registered for application of S7: S-Seaweed sap 10% which enhance growth on vegetative stage. By the application of seaweed sap presence of plant growth regulators it has increased the power of source and thus help to increased the transport of assimilates to the sink including roots and young leaves. The results are in good agreement with findings of Singh et al. (2016).\r\n','M.R. Meshram, Joy Dawson, Shikha Singh and Lipi Rina (2022). Effect of Seaweed Sap Foliar Application on AGR, CGR and RGR of Maize (Zea mays L.) Cultivars. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 14(2): 111-116.'),(4803,'125','Effect of Foliar Spray of Vermiwash and Panchgavya on Growth, Yield and Economics of Field Pea','Keya Prajapati*, P.H. Patel and S.R. Rabari','21 Effect of Foliar Spray of Vermiwash and Panchgavya on Growth, Yield and Economics of Field Pea Keya Prajapati.pdf','',1,'A field experiment on effect of foliar spray of vermiwash and panchgavya on growth and yield of field pea was carried out at Pulses Research Station, Sardarkrushinagar Dantiwada Agricultural University, Sardarkrushinagar during rabi 2020-21 in loamy sand soil. Ten treatments comprising of RDF (20:40:00 kg NPK/ha), 75% RDF + vermiwash @ 5 and 10% (at 30, 45, 30 and 45 DAS, respectively) and 75% RDF + panchgavya @ 4% (at 30, 45, 30 and 45 DAS) were tried in randomized block design with four replications. 75% RDF + panchgavya @ 4% at 30 and 45 DAS resulted in significantly higher growth attributes viz., vine length (cm), number of branches/plant, days to physiological maturity and 50 per cent flowering, number of root nodules/plant and fresh weight (mg) of nodules per plant as well as yield attributes viz., pods/plant, seed weight/plant(g), seed index(g), seed(1957 kg/ha) and haulm yield (2515 kg/ha). The same treatment also recorded the maximum net return (`67635/-) and benefit: cost ratio (BCR) (2.92). A fertilizer saving of 25% was possible by adopting either foliar spray of panchgavya @ 4% or vermiwash @ 10% at 30 DAS along with 75% NPK application. It also enhanced yield and economic parameters.','Field pea, economics, vermiwash, panchgavya, growth and yield attributes, loamy sand','It is concluded that for securing higher seed yield and profitability as well as improving quality, field pea crop should be applied with 75% of recommended dose (20:40:0 kg/ha N:P2O5:K2O) per hectare along with foliar spray of either panchgavya@ 4% or vermiwash @ 10% at 30 days after sowing.','INTRODUCTION\r\nPulses are rich source of protein (20 to 25%) having ability to fix atmospheric nitrogen (30-150 kg/ha) and consistent source of income and employment to small and marginal farmers. Considering their importance, 2016 was declared as “International Year of Pulses” by United Nations with the objectives of increasing production and consumption of pulses and creating awareness of benefits of pulses by utilizing social media. The per capita availability of pulses has been declined from 64.5 g in 1960 to 56.0 g in 2018 as against the minimum requirement of84 g per day per capita (Anonymous, 2018). India is the largest producer (25% of global production), consumer (27% of world consumption) and importer (14%) of pulses in the world. Madhya Pradesh, Maharashtra, Rajasthan, Uttar Pradesh and Karnataka are the top-five pulses producing states. Productivity of pulses is 764 kg/ha (Anonymous, 2020b). Fieldpea (Pisum sativum L.) is an important popular pulse crop in India. Among pulses, pea is an important pulse crop with high nutritional quality. It is of the indeterminate (climbing) type or determinate (bush or dwarf) type. It is primarily used for human consumption or as a livestock feed throughout the world. Pea seeds serve as the main source of protein in the balanced diet. The mature seeds are used as whole grain or split in to ‘dal’. Panchgavya, an organic product has the potential to play the role of promoting growth and providing immunity in plant system. Panchgavya consists of eight products viz., cow-dung, cow-urine, cow-milk, curd, jaggery, ghee, banana and water. It is being applied as a better source of N2 (Somasundaram et al., 2004). Physico-chemical properties of panchgavya show that they possess almost all the major nutrients, micronutrients and growth hormones (IAA and GA) required for crop growth (Dhama et al., 2005). Gopal et al. (2017) reported that foliar spray of Panchgavya @ 4% showed significantly higher growth and yield parameters as compared to other treatments. Panchgavya @ 6% recorded higher growth parameters, yield parameters and the highest seed yield per plant (6.73g) which was 59.10 % higher over control (Vighneshawaran et al., 2020). Vermiwash is the spent wash collected at the passage of water through a column of earthworm culture. The spent wash collected through a drainage pipe provided at the bottom of the vermicompost pit. The wash is a collection of excretory products and excess secretions of earthworms along with micronutrients from soil organic molecules (Yuvaraj, 2007). It is coelomic fluid extraction which contains several enzymes, plant growth stimulating hormones like cytokinins, gibberlines and vitamins along with micro-nutrients and macro-nutrients as nitrogen in the form of mucus, nitrogenous excretory substances. (Tripathi and Bhardwaj 2004). It also increases the disease resistant power of crop (Yadav et al., 2005). Vermiwash obtained from dissolution of organic matter by earthworm is also found as good liquid manure and affects significantly the growth and productivity of crop during foliar spray (Subasasri, 2003). Vermiwash contains 0.50 per cent nitrogen, 0.39 per cent phosphorus and 0.46 per cent potassium (Jasmin, 1999). Apart from organic acids, it also contains a rich source of soluble plant nutrients stimulating crop growth (Shivsubramanian and Ganeshkumar, 2004). Jijogeorge et al. (2019) carried out an experiment at Tamil Nadu and he noticed that the growth parameters were found optimum in 100 % vermiwash. Hassan and Elbatran (2020) at Agricultural Research Center, Egypt reported that the application of vermiwash gave the highest values of root nodulation, plant growth, nutritional content (N, P and K), yield, pod characteristics and seed compositions (protein, carbohydrates and dry matter) of field pea. Rajasooriya and Karunarathna (2020) also reported that the growth and yield parameters were significantly higher with the application of 50% dose of recommended basal fertilizer and top dressing supplemented with 75% of vermiwash in their experiment conducted at Sri Lanka.\r\nMATERIAL AND METHODS\r\nThe field experiment was conducted at Pulses Research Station, Sardarkrushinagar Dantiwada Agricultural University, Sardarkrushinagar. Total 10 treatments viz., T1: RDF(20: 40 : 00kg NPK/ha)+ water spray, T2: 75% RDF + vermiwash@5% at 30 DAS, T3: 75% RDF + vermiwash@5% at 45 DAS, T4: 75% RDF + vermiwash@5% at 30 and 45 DAS, T5: 75% RDF + vermiwash@10% at 30 DAS, T6: 75% RDF + vermiwash@10% at 45DAS, T7: 75% RDF + vermiwash@10% at30 and 45 DAS, T8: 75% RDF + panchgavya@4% at 30DAS, T9: 75% RDF + panchgavya@4% at 45 DAS, T10: 75% RDF + panchgavya@4%at 30 and 45DAS were tried in randomised block design with four replications. Field pea variety Dantiwada Field pea1 was used as a test crop. The soil of experimental field was loamy sand in texture, neutral to alkaline in reaction, normal with respect to salinity and soluble salt content under safe limit, low inorganic carbon and available N, medium in available P2O5and having sufficient available K2O status.\r\nRESULTS AND DISCUSSION\r\nA. Plant population\r\nPlant population (30 DAS and at harvest) of field pea was not varied significantly due to application of different treatments. \r\nB. Effect on growth attributes\r\nThe remarkable improvement of all growth attributes viz., vine length (31.97cm), number of branches per plant (2.89), days to physiological maturity (92.37 days), days to 50% flowering (59.06 days), number of root nodules per plant (20.15) and fresh weight of root nodules per plant (47.82mg) was observed due to 75% RDF + foliar application of panchgavya@ 4% at 30 & 45 DAS (T10) followed by 75% RDF + panchgavya@ 4% at 30 DAS (T8) and 75% RDF + vermiwash @ 10% at 30 and 45 DAS (T7). Weight of dry root nodules of plant did not influence significantly due to different treatments. \r\nTreatment T10 (75% RDF + panchgavya@ 4% at 30 and 45 DAS) accounted for significantly altering the growth attributes. This might be due to application of panchgavya contains favourable macro and micro \r\nnutrients, growth hormones and microorganism viz., Azospirillum, Azotobacter, Phosphobacter and Pseudomonas in liquid formulation which played an import ant role in root development and proliferation resulting in better nodule formation and nitrogen fixation by supplying as similar test other roots and better environment in rhizosphere for growth and development. The findings are in accordance with the findings of Kumar et al. (2011); Patel et al. (2013); Anuja and Vijayalakshmi (2014); Chongre et al. (2019); Vighneshawaran et al. (2020).\r\nC. Effect on yield attributes and yield\r\nWith regard to improvement in yield attributes viz., number of pods per plant(19.1), seed index(15.16g) and seed weight per plant(8.93 g) were registered under 75% RDF + foliar application of panchgavya @ 4% at 30 and 45 DAS followed by 75% RDF + panchgavya @ 4% at 30 DAS and 75% RDF + vermiwash @ 10% at 30 and 45 DAS. However, different treatments failed to exert their significant influence on number of seeds per pod. Spectacular enhancement in seed and haulm yields (1957 kg/ha and 2515 kg/ha respectively) was achieved under 75% RDF + foliar application of panchgavya @ 4% at 30 & 45 DAS followed by 75% RDF + panchgavya @ 4% at 30 DAS and 75% RDF + vermiwash @ 10% at 30 and 45 DAS. Harvest index (%) of field pea was not varied significantly due to different treatments. The findings are in close accordance with Choudhary et al. (2017); Sutar et al. (2018); Kumavat et al. (2011) ; Yadav et al. (2016) ; Bhargavi et al. (2018). \r\nD. Effect on economics\r\nThe highest net return (`67635/ha) and benefit : cost ratio (BCR) (2.92) were realized by 75% RDF + foliar application of panchgavya @ 4% at 30 & 45 DAS) followed by 75% RDF + panchgavya @ 4% \r\nat 30 DAS and 75% RDF + vermiwash @ 10% at 30 and 45 DAS. These findings are in accordance with those recorded by Swaminathan et al. (2007); Boraiah (2017); Jadhav and Shyamrao (2016); Choudhary et al. (2017).\r\n','Keya Prajapati, P.H. Patel and S.R. Rabari (2022). Effect of Foliar Spray of Vermiwash and Panchgavya on Growth, Yield and Economics of Field Pea. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 14(2): 117-120.'),(4804,'107','Determination of Nutritive Contents (Protein and Carbohydrate) of Popular Mulberry Varieties','Aabid Khaliq Tantray, Mohd Shahid Raja, Naveena Nazim*, Aabid Ahmad Bhat, Mohd Farooq Baqual and Khursheed Ahmad Sahaf ','212 Determination of Nutritive Contents _Protein and Carbohydrate_ of Popular Mulberry Varieties Naveena Nazim.pdf','',1,'Proteins and carbohydrates are the main nutritive components in mulberry leaves. The present study was undertaken to analyse the protein and carbohydrate content in the leaves of popular mulberry varieties (Goshoerami, Koksu-21 and Ichinose) at three different stages (tender, medium and coarse). In general, decreasing trend in terms of total protein and carbohydrate content was recorded from tender to coarse textured leaves of all three varieties. The leaf extract of Goshoerami (tender) and Koksu-21 (tender) recorded the highest protein and carbohydrate content to the tone of 28.93 and 18.68% respectively. Among the varieties, Goshoerami recorded highest protein content of 25.24%, whereas highest carbohydrate content (16.91%) was found in Koksu-21 mulberry variety. ','Silkworm, Mulberry leaves, Protein and Carbohydrate','Goshoerami is a popular cultivar of temperate regions like Kashmir. Highest protein content in the tender stage of the leaves surmises about the possibility of its utilization during chawki silkworm rearing. In addition, significant amount of protein and carbohydrate content in the Koksu-21 variety suggests its potential for being utilized in chawki rearing of silkworms. ','INTRODUCTION \r\nMulberry plants are fast growing and found in varied climatic conditions. It is mainly used to feed the silkworms for the production of silk. Presence of good amount of bioactive constituents makes it choice of plant for various pharmaceutical and nutraceutical studies. Mulberry plant is also appreciated for the source of mulberry fruit, which is good in taste and have various health benefits. Fruits can be consumed fresh, fried or in the form of juices, squashes etc. Silkworm larval growth, development and cocoon production is directly proportional to the nutritional and biochemical quality of mulberry leaves (Krishnaswami, 1978). Any deficiency in the quality of leaf causes changes in the metabolic activity of silkworm larvae (Ito, 1972). Protein and carbohydrate are prime components of nutrition in leaf and their quantities greatly influence the growth of silkworm. Mulberry leaf quality also depends on the age, variety and leaf position within same species (Narayanswamy et al., 1996). Present study was undertaken for quantitative analysis of protein and carbohydrate composition of mulberry leaves (tender, medium and coarse) of three mulberry varieties (Goshoerami, Ichinose and Koksu-21) grown under temperate climatic conditions of Kashmir.\r\nMATERIALS AND METHODS\r\nPresent study was conducted at College of Temperate Sericulture, SKUAST-K, Mirgund, Jammu and Kashmir. Leaf samples comprising of equal proportion of tender, medium and coarse from three mulberry varieties viz., Goshoerami, Ichinose and Koksu-21 were taken in early morning during the spring 2021.\r\nProcessing of leaf samples. The collected leaf samples were first washed with running tap water, followed by distilled water, to decontaminate leaves from dust and other impurities. The samples were air dried on filter papers and then oven dried at 60-65°C (Chapman, 1964) till constant weight was obtained. After drying, samples were crushed with the help of mortar pestle, followed by sieving and stored in envelops for further use.\r\nExperimental Material. Ethanol (analytical grade), Folin- Ciocalteu reagent (FCR), Anthrone reagent, Sulphuric acid (H2SO4), Trichloroacetic acid (TCA), Standard glucose, Alkaline copper reagent (Sodium potassium tartrate (KNaC4H4O6.4H2O), Copper sulphate (CuSO4), Sodium hydroxide (NaOH), Sodium carbonate (Na2Co3), Bovine serum albumin (BSA), Hydrochloric acid (HCL), Distilled water and Mulberry leaf (tender, medium & coarse) of three popular varieties viz., Goshoerami, Ichinose and Koksu-21.\r\nEstimation of total protein content. Total protein content was measured by colorimetric method described by Lowry et al., 1951. 50mg of dry leaf from each sample was homogenized in 80% ethanol using mortar pestle. Homogenates were centrifuged at 5000rpm for 20 minutes. Supernatants were discarded and residues suspended in 10ml of 10% TCA (Trichloroacetic acid) for 30 minutes. The mixtures were centrifuged at 5000rpm for 10 min and the supernatants discarded. Pellets were washed with 5% TCA and protein precipitates (pellets) were dissolved in 1N NaOH and kept in hot water bath for 30 minutes. The samples were diluted 10 times with distilled water. 1ml was taken as protein sample followed by the addition of 5ml of alkaline copper reagent and allowed to stand for 10 minutes. 0.5ml of 50% FCR reagent was added rapidly and mixed. FCR added mixtures are kept at room temperature for 30 minutes and optical density was taken at 750nm.\r\nEstimation of total carbohydrate content. Carbohydrate content in leaf samples was estimated by Thimmaiah 1999, using the anthrone reagent with slight modification. 0.1g of dry leaf samples were taken in test tubes and added with 5ml of 0.5N HCL. Tubes were kept for 3 hours in hot boiling water bath and cooled at room temperature. Dry sodium carbonate was added to neutralize samples till effervescence ended. Volume of tubes were made 10ml with distilled water and 0.05ml from each sample tubes was taken for analysis. Volume of sample tubes was made up to 1ml with distilled water followed by addition of 4ml anthrone reagent. Tubes were kept in boiling water for 8 minutes, cooled rapidly and absorbance of green to dark green colour was read at 630nm. \r\n\r\n\r\n\r\nRESULTS AND DISCUSSION\r\nTotal Protein. The results with respect to total protein content of mulberry leaves are presented Table 1 and Fig. 1. In general, tender leaves of Goshoerami recorded significantly highest (28.93%) total protein content followed by tender leaves of Koksu-21(27.58%) and Ichinose (23.96%). Obtained results coincides with results put forth by Lokesh et al., 2012; Murthy et al., 2013; Jyothi et al., 2016) who reported that the tender leaves of mulberry contain more protein content than medium and coarse textured leaves. High protein content in tender leaves makes it best feed during early stage of larvae where larvae get more nutrition by consuming even less leaf quantity. Protein and carbohydrate content are the major nutritional component in leaf and directly influences the larval growth. Krishnaswami (1978) reported that the constituents like water, total sugars, soluble sugars, proteins, crude fiber and minerals are efficiently consumed by silkworm larvae.\r\nTotal carbohydrate. Results of carbohydrate content in mulberry leaves are presented in Table 2 and Fig. 2. Highest carbohydrate content was observed in Koksu-21 tender (18.68), followed by Ichinose tender (16.98%) and Goshoerami tender (14.48%) which declined gradually within increasing growth periods. More photosynthetic products to upper leaves can be related to the higher carbohydrate composition in the tender (upper leaves) than lower leaves and its depletion can be attributed to genotypic character of matured leaves. Current results are in conformity with the results obtained by (Lokesh et al., 2012; Murthy et al., 2013) who reported that the tender leaves of mulberry contain more carbohydrate content than medium and coarse textured leaves.\r\n','Aabid Khaliq Tantray, Mohd Shahid Raja, Naveena Nazim, Aabid Ahmad Bhat, Mohd Farooq Baqual and Khursheed Ahmad Sahaf (2021). Determination of Nutritive Contents (Protein and Carbohydrate) of Popular Mulberry Varieties. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 13(4): 1303-1306.'),(4805,'107','Quantitative Determination of Protein and Carbohydrate Contents in Fruits of different Mulberry Varieties','Aabid Khaliq Tantray, Naveena Nazim*, Mohd Shahid Raja, Mohd Farooq Baqual and Seerat Showkat','213 Quantitative Determination of Protein and Carbohydrate Contents in Fruits of Different Mulberry Varieties Naveena Nazim.pdf','',1,'Mulberry fruits which are widely consumed dry as well as fresh, processed into juices, jams, jellies etc., are good sources of carbohydrates, lipids, proteins, vitamins, minerals and fibers. They contain considerable amounts of biologically active ingredients that are beneficial for human health. Present study was aimed to investigate the proximate composition of proteins and carbohydrates in the fresh and dry mulberry fruits of popular mulberry varieties viz., Goshoerami (Morus multicaulis), Botatul (Morus indica) and Ichinose (Morus alba). The ethanol stirrer extraction method was used for the preparation of mulberry fruit extracts. Fresh and dry mulberry fruit extracts of Botatul recorded highest protein content to the tone of 3.17% & 12.47% and highest carbohydrate content to the tone of 13.48% and 26.03% respectively.','Mulberry fruit, Human health, Proteins and Carbohydrates','There were significant variations in theprotein and carbohydrate contents in fruits of three mulberry varieties, highest being in fresh and dry mulberry fruit extracts of Botatul. Hence, purification of these compounds will prove to be one of the important sources for pharmaceutical and nutraceutical applications and would thereby add value to sericulture industry.','INTRODUCTION \r\nMulberry (Morus sp.) can grow in a wide range of climatic, topographical, and soil conditions, ranging from tropical to temperate which can affect the chemical composition and nutritional status of plants. Mulberry fruits are widely consumed dry as well as fresh, processed into juices, jams, ice cream, marmalade, wine etc. It’s fruits are juicy and rich in minerals, amino acids, fatty acids, sugars, flavonoids, vitamins etc (Wang et al., 2013). Conventionally, it is believed that fruits of mulberry, particularly black and red varieties are advantageous to the human body (Ercisli and Orhan, 2007). Mulberry fruits can serve as a remedy for dysentery and laxative, odontalgic, anthelmintic, expectorant, hypoglycemic, and emetic (Ercisli and Orhan, 2007). Fruits of M. nigra are among the important constituents of Unani medicine known as Tutiaswad, which is believed to have anti-cancerous activities (Nursalam, 2016). In traditional Chinese herbal medicine, mulberry fruits have been used in folk medicine to treat diabetes, hypertension, anemia, and arthritis (Ozgen et al., 2009). Anthocyanins are the most important constituent of mulberry fruits, which are a group of naturally occurring phenolic compounds that are responsible for the colour attribute and biological activities such as antioxidant, antimicrobial, and neuro-protective, anti-inflammatory properties (Kang et al., 2006; Chen et al., 2006). In our study, a compositional comparison of proteins and carbohydrates between different mulberry varieties was undertaken aiming to explore the nutrient profiles of mulberry fruits and promote the further development of the rich mulberry resources.\r\nMATERIAL AND METHODS\r\nThe present study was carried out at the College of Temperate Sericulture, SKUAST-K, Mirgund. Fruit samples of three mulberry varieties viz., Goshoerami (Morus multicaulis), Botatul (Morus indica) and Ichinose (Morus alba) after collection were first washed with running tap water to decontaminate them from dust and other foreign materials followed by washing with distilled water. Samples were crushed in stainless steel blender and stored for subsequent analysis. For dry fruit sampling, the fruits were air dried on filter papers and then oven dried at 60-65oC till constant weight was obtained. Dried samples were finally crushed with the help of mortar pestle and stored in labelled paper envelops for subsequent analysis.\r\nA. Estimation of total protein content\r\nTotal protein content was measured by colorimetric method described by Lowry et al. (1951). 50mg of dry and fresh fruit samples were homogenized in 80% ethanol using mortar pestle. Homogenates were centrifuged at 5000rpm for 20 minutes. Supernatant were discarded and residues suspended in 10ml of 10% TCA (Trichloroacetic acid) for 30 minutes. The mixtures were centrifuged at 5000rpm for 10 min and the supernatant discarded. Pellets were washed with 5% TCA and protein precipitates (pellets) were dissolved in 1N NaOH and kept in hot water bath for 30 minutes. The samples were diluted 10 times with distilled water. From each tube, 1ml was taken, 5ml of alkaline copper reagent was added and were allowed to stand for 10 minutes. After 10 minutes, 0.5ml of 50% FCR reagent was added and mixed. Mixture was allowed to stand for 30 minutes at room temperature and absorbance was measured at 750nm.\r\nB. Estimation of total carbohydrate content\r\nTotal carbohydrate was estimated by Anthrone reagent method outlined by Thimmaiah (1999) with slight modification. 0.1g of dry and fresh fruit samples were taken in test tubes. 5ml of 2.5N HCL was added to each tube. The tubes were kept in water bath for 3 hours for hydrolysis and cooled at room temperature. Samples were neutralized with dry sodium carbonate until the effervescence ended and volume was made upto 10ml with distilled water. 0.05ml of the samples was used for analysis. Volume was made up to 1 ml in all the tubes with distilled water and 4 ml of anthrone reagent was added. The samples were kept in boiling water for 8 minutes, cooled rapidly and the green to dark green colour was read at 630nm.\r\nRESULT AND DISCUSSION\r\nA. Total Protein content\r\nThe results with respect to total protein content are presented in Table 1-2 and Fig. 1-2. Dry mulberry fruit extract of Botatul recorded highest (12.47%) total protein content followed by Goshoerami (11.23%) and Ichinose (6.58%). Similar trend was found in fresh fruit extracts, where Botatul and Ichinose recorded protein contents to the tone of 3.17% and 2.12% respectively. The experimental results of Ghosh et al. (2006) are in accordance with the results obtained in present study. They reported total protein content of 3 to 3.9% in fresh fruits of different mulberry varieties. Kim et al., (2021) recorded total protein content of 6.14%, 6.23%, 7.03% & 7.49% in different varieties of mulberry fruit. Imran et al., (2010) reported protein content of 0.96, 1.55, 1.57 and 1.73g/100g DW in Morus nigra, Morus alba, Morus laevigata (large white fruit) and Morus laevigata (large black fruit)respectively. The quantity of protein in fresh mulberry fruit (M. alba) is greater than that of raspberries (Rao and Snyder, 2010) and strawberries (Giampieri et al., 2012) and comparable to blackberries, (Kaume et al., 2012).\r\nB. Total carbohydrate content\r\nCarbohydrate content of different mulberry varieties is shown in Table 1 & 2 and Fig. 1 & 2. In case of dry mulberry fruit, highest carbohydrate content was observed in Botatul (26.03%) followed by Goshoerami (23.11%) and Ichinose (20.01%). Similarly in fresh fruit extracts, Botatul recorded highest carbohydrate content to the tone of 13.48%, whereas, lowest carbohydrate content was recorded in Ichinose (9.18%). Imran et al. (2010) reported total carbohydrate content of 13.83, 14.21, 15.21 and 17.96g/100g DW in Morus nigra, Morus alba, Morus laevigata (large white fruit) and Morus laevigata (large black fruit) respectively. Dimitrova et al. (2015) recorded carbohydrate content in the range of 3.4, 6.2, 9.8g/100 g FW in white (Morus alba), black (Morus nigra) and red (Morus rubra) mulberry fruits respectively. Total carbohydrate content of 69.47, 74.09 and 75.58g/100g DW was recorded by Sadia et al. (2014) in Morus alba, Morus laevigata and Morus nigra mulberry varieties respectively. Kumar and Chauhan (2011), reported the carbohydrate content in the range of 0.3733mg/g in BR-2 to 0.6548mg/g in S-36 variety. Sharif, et al. (2016) found carbohydrate content in the range of 18.12 – 32.80 g/100g in fresh mulberry juice. Mulberry fruits are rich source of carbohydrates and sugars. The principal carbohydrates are found in the form of monosaccharide and polysaccharides (Mahmood et al., 2012; Gundogdu et al., 2011). The monosaccharide of mulberry fruits comprises of glucose, arabinose, galacturonic acid, and galactose (Chen et al., 2015). While the immense majority of the polysaccharide reported from mulberry fruits are acid heteropolysaccharides, which are the primary source of α, β-glycosidic linked glucans, these mulberry fruit polysaccharides (MFPs) exert remarkable medicinal effects on human health (He et al., 2018). \r\n','Aabid Khaliq Tantray, Naveena Nazim, Mohd Shahid Raja, Mohd Farooq Baqual and Seerat Showkat (2021). Quantitative Determination of Protein and Carbohydrate Contents in Fruits of different Mulberry Varieties. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 13(4): 1307-1310.'),(4806,'125','Genetic Diversity Studies in Strawberry (Fragaria × ananassa Duch.) under Temperate Climatic conditions of North West Himalayas','Sehrish Jan*, Jahangeer A. Baba, Z.A. Dar, Gowhar Ali and Insha Nazir','22 Genetic Diversity Studies in Strawberry _Fragaria × ananassa Duch._ under Temperate Climatic Conditions of North West Himalayas Sehrish Jan.pdf','',1,'Strawberry (Fragaria ananassa Duch.) is one of the most important berries in the world and also became an important fruit in Kashmir valley in recent past. However, most of the commercial genotypes currently in cultivation in Kashmir were developed in other countries with environmental adaptations often inadequate for the regional conditions. This study was carried out as many new varieties such as Everly, Kimberly, Honeoye etc. were introduced for the first time at SKUAST-K hence, giving rise to the need to evaluate all these varieties for various important traits so that these can be used according to the requirement in various breeding programmes as potential donor parents based on the heritability values. Investigation on genetic diversity among 15 strawberry genotypes was carried out for various horticultural traits using RCBD with three replications during the year 2017-18. Divergence analysis using Mahalanobis D2 statistics revealed significant results as genotypes under study got grouped into seven distinct clusters. Cluster-V and Cluster-VI had the greatest inter-cluster distance of 50362.27, while Cluster-VI had the highest mean value for fruit weight (11.09 g), reducing sugars (6.74 percent), and bloom duration (55.56 days). The maximum mean value for S.S.C. (11.31°Brix) and total sugars (7.66 percent) was recorded in case of Cluster-VII while Cluster-V recorded maximum mean value for yield plant-1 (119.67g). The contribution towards genetic divergence was maximum (71.43 percent) from fruit yield. The genotypes evaluated during the investigation recorded significant amount of variability for various descriptive and quantitative characteristics. Thus, the diversity observed among the genotypes during this investigation can be used to identify potential genotypes which maybe beneficially exploited either by direct selection of superior genotypes or by using such genotypes as donor parents in various hybridization programme keeping in view the high heritability in various desired traits of horticultural importance. These results could lay the foundation for further breeding and conservation of strawberry.','Genetic diversity, clusters analysis, strawberry, genotypes','According to the discussion above, strawberry genotypes have a significant genetic diversity in terms of morphological and biochemical characteristics, therefore it is obvious that a systematic breeding and selection technique might be used to converge the elite allelic resources contained in these strawberry genotypes in order to recover high yielding recombinants with good quality features. The parents utilized in the hybridization programme should come from a variety of clusters separated by a large inter-cluster distance, and they should have high per se performance for the characteristics of interest, contributing the most to genetic divergence. Clusters containing just one genotype with certain features might be used as testers for expression of maximal heterosis in a hybridization programme to utilize heterosis.','INTRODUCTION\r\nStrawberry is one of the most popular refreshing soft fruits, known for its attractive appearance, high nutritional value, pleasant aroma, and other health benefits. Strawberry is believed to have the highest quantity of antioxidants and foliate of all fruits and vegetables. Strawberry is also high in vitamin C and silicon, which is beneficial to the healing and strength of all connective tissues and arteries. Besides, the presence of ellagic acid in strawberry has been found to prevent cancer and other potential heart ailments (Singh et al., 2013). All strawberry varieties under cultivation are octaploid (2n=56). Temperatures of 22–23°C during the day and 7–13°C at night are ideal for strawberry growth and development. Strawberries prefer loam soil with generous amounts of organic matter. It is highly perishable in nature and botanically strawberry is an aggregate fruit (Etario of achenes). Strawberry has been found to give the highest potential economic yield in the shortest period of time than any other fruit crop (Sharma and Sharma, 2004; Das et al., 2015). The endodormancy of strawberry is caused by short day and low temperature conditions and this problem can be tackled to some extent in some cultivars by additional daily light exposures and in all cultivars by maintaining temperatures around freezing (Antunes et al., 2010). Strawberry is a temperate-climate crop. However, in recent years, the tendency has shifted, and there has been a massive rise in both its area and output in India\'s subtropical and tropical plains (Sharma et al., 2006). Hundreds of strawberry cultivars are currently grown commercially throughout India. The approval for a diverse palette by both the consumers as well as producers at country level is largely responsible for strawberry\'s contribution to overall fruit production (Korbin and Mezzetti 2010). This has happened mainly due to standardizing of modern agricultural techniques and also by the introduction of many varieties that are insensitive to available heat and light period like Fern, Sweet Charlie, Chandler, etc. from different countries which have performed very well under diverse climatic conditions prevailing in India.\r\nStrawberry has considerable genetic diversity and as such precise information regarding the performance of cultivars under various agro-climatic conditions is essential before being recommended for cultivation. Moreover, with the passage of time, the demand for new cultivars may arise due to decline in the performance of a cultivar with change in climatic conditions of the location. Also strawberry is very heterozygous in nature as a result of which it suffers from rapid loss of vigor, fruit size and yield due to inbreeding (Spangelo et al., 1971). Therefore, it becomes essential to conduct a proper genetic diversity studies so as to ensure availability of varieties as per the demand in the market. Thus, it becomes important to design and develop a strategy that is capable of not only preserving this rich diversity of germplasm but also identifies the superior genotypes that can be used in to improve various traits of interest like yield and other important quality characteristics of commercially grown strawberry varieties through selection and various other breeding methods. This goal can be achieved only when the already existing potential varieties are systematically surveyed, evaluated and standardized (Lone and Wafai 1995). In the present case, an ideal variety is one that has adaptability in a wide range of agro-climatic conditions, produces large, firm fruits of attractive colour and good quality besides having good processing and desert quality. It is thus very important to carry out the study programmes involving the studies of genetic variability with the help of suitable parameters such as GCV, heritability estimates, and GA for an efficient breeding programme (Atta et al., 2008; Mishra, et al., 2015). \r\nMATERIALS AND METHODS\r\nThe study was conducted at SKUAST-K, Shalimar, Srinagar, during the academic year 2017-2018. The experimental site selected for this experiment is situated at an elevation of 1685 metres amsl, receiving about 600 millimeters rainfall annually. With three replications, the experiment was set up in RCBD. The experimental area was divided into three blocks, each of which was further divided into 15 beds of 2 × 1m, and strawberry runners were planted randomly across each block at a spacing of 30 × 30cm, accommodating around 20 plants per bed, following proper site preparation. Kimberly, Winter Dawn, Curaltar, Everly, Sea Scape, Missionary, Honeoye, Jutogh Special, Katrain Sweet, Chandler, Oso Grande, Selva, Catskill, Brighton, and Camarosa were among the 15 types whose runners were received from CITH and SKUAST-K nursery. Proper care was taken from time to time which included various intercultural operations like irrigation, weeding, mulching etc. Manual harvesting was carried out in 3-4 pickings when about 80% of the fruit turned bright red. Because strawberry is a short-lived crop, different parameters were estimated soon after harvesting. A standard measuring scale was employed for measuring the height and spread of plants (cm) while a top pan electronic balance was used to measure the weight (gm) of berries and the values thus obtained were used to calculate yield per hectare. The soluble solid concentration (SSC) of mature fruit juice was determined using a hand refractometer (0-32°B), while the titrable acidity was evaluated by the process of titration wherein freshly prepared fruit juice was titrated against 0.1 N sodium hydroxide with phenolphthalein used as an indicator A.O.A.C. (1980). Fruit volume (cm3) was measured using the water displacement method, and specific gravity was calculated by dividing the weight of the fruit as obtained by the weighing machine by the volume of water displaced. The volumetric approach, which is based on the idea that sucrose content in the fruits in presence of HCl is broken down into glucose and fructose, is used to determine total sugar and reducing sugar content A.O.A.C (1980). Total sugar and reducing sugar were calculated as a percentage of the fresh weight of the fruit pulp. The Mahalnobis D2 statistics were used to cluster the cultivars into different groups on the basis of 11 different attributes brought under study. Tocher\'s technique (Rao, 1952) was used to divide the genotypes into distinct clusters, with the requirement that every line in the same cluster had a lower D2 value on average than those in two different groups.\r\nRESULTS AND DISCUSSION\r\nThe value of genetic diversity in breeding is self-evident. As a result, it becomes critical to define and quantify such diversity, both in terms of its nature and magnitude, in order to determine whether it has a positive or negative impact on a breeding programme. Furthermore, for the sake of future genetic resource preservation and sustainable usage, it is vital to assure the highest possible availability of plant germplasm. Thus, evaluation, characterization and diversity estimation has been performed for various strawberry collections with an aim of better utilization. Genetic diversity is an important parameter that helps to identify genetically diverse parents that could preferably fit in a hybridization program which aims at bringing closer different gene constellations yielding desirable transgressive segregants in future generation. In other words, genetic divergence gives us an idea about the genetic distance between populations or species making it easy to understand as to how different or how similar different varieties are from each other. Thus, smaller genetic distance varieties have a close genetic relationship (i.e. such varieties are quite similar to each other genetically) whereas higher values of genetic distances indicate a more diverse relationship (i.e. such varieties are genetically diverse from each other). As a result, all genotypes were divided into seven clusters based on their performance in several parameters under investigation (Fig. 1). Cluster-II has the highest number of genotypes (5). Cluster-I, cluster-VI, cluster-III, cluster-IV, cluster-V, and cluster-VII had 4, 2, 1, 1, 1 and 1 genotypes, respectively. Singh et al. (2013) conducted a similar study on genetic divergence in which 22 strawberry genotypes were divided into four clusters. D2 values for average inter- and intra-cluster divergence were calculated. Cluster VI had the highest intra cluster distance (4646.85), whereas Cluster II had the lowest value (2831.03). The highest inter cluster distance (50362.27) was observed between cluster IV and V, while the lowest (5370.07) was observed between cluster I and III, indicating that if cultivars from cluster IV and V are hybridized, superior recombinants or transgressive segregants can be obtained in future segregating generations in strawberry (Table 2). The inter cluster distance (i.e., the distance between clusters) was found to be greater than the intra cluster distance (i.e., the distance between genotypes within the same cluster), indicating that genotypes from different clusters have more genetic diversity than genotypes from the same cluster. In other words, inter-cluster distances were much higher than intra-cluster distances, indicating homogeneity among genotypes within the same cluster and heterogeneity among genotypes from different clusters. This result was comparable to that of Udin and Mitra (1994), who found that the inter cluster distance was greater than the intra cluster distance in Sesame. In addition, Singh et al. (2013); Chhetri et al. (2017) in strawberry and Baba et al. (2017) in sweet Cherry and Khatun and Rehman (2010) in snake-gourd obtained comparable results. Cluster-I was found to be superior for total number of flowers, total number of berries, percent berry set, and yield attributes based on the values of cluster means for various characters under study. Cluster V was found to be superior for total number of flowers, total number of berries, L:D ratio, and titrable acidity based on the values of cluster means for various characters under study (Table 3). As a result, better segregants can be created in segregating populations if parents from cluster I and cluster V are hybridized for these traits. In other words, the choice of clusters for use in hybridization programme can be made based on our requirements. Haque et al. (2015) conducted a study that was very much in line with this one. Singh et al. (2013) found the maximum intra cluster distance in cluster IV, which is consistent with the findings of our study. Furthermore, the findings of Chhetri et al. (2017) in strawberry and Lacis et al. (2010) in sour cherry are very similar to ours. Table 4 shows the percent contribution of several traits to total divergence, and a review of the data found that, of all the traits tested, yield per plant was by far the major contributor (71.43%), followed by total and reducing sugars (8.57%), and fruit weight (8.57%) (5.71%). Number of leaves per plant, bloom duration, SSC, and SSC-titrable acidity ratio made the least contribution to divergence (0.95 percent each). As a result, when characterizing strawberry genetic resources and analysing breeding material in the future, the most essential qualities in terms of variety should be taken intoaccount. The data obtained during the study shows tremendous diversity in the various physico-chemical attributes of selected genotypes of cherry. Significant per cent contribution of almost each trait towards total divergence depicts the importance of these traits as principal contributors to genetic diversity prevalent in such germplasm. The diversity in the present germplasm was also evident by the presence of considerable amount of variation among cluster means for different traits. These results thus showing wide diversity among genotypes, offers reliable data for selection of better genotypes.\r\n','Sehrish Jan, Jahangeer A. Baba, Z. A. Dar, Gowhar Ali and Insha Nazir (2022). Genetic Diversity Studies in Strawberry (Fragaria × ananassa Duch.) under Temperate Climatic Conditions of North West Himalayas. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 14(2): 121-125.'),(4807,'125','Study of Heterosis and per se Performance in Fieldpea (Pisum sativum L.) ','Suchitra*, D.A. Chauhan and Sheetal Gupta','23 Study of Heterosis and per se Performance in Fieldpea Pisum sativum L. Suchitra.pdf','',1,'A study carried out to identify superior hybrids by utilizing a half diallel set involving six fieldpea genotypes. This investigation was conducted at Castor and Pulses Research Station, Navsari agricultural university, Navsari and in subsequent season F1’s were evaluated in 2019-20, Rabi season. The magnitude of heterosis varied from the cross to cross for all the characters studied. The top five cross combinations for yield per plant were GDF-1 × NIFPVg-17-12, NIFPVg-1712 × NIFPGr-17-63, GDF-1 × NIFPVg-17-10, NF-18-52(Local) × NIFPGr17-12, and NIFPGr-17-64 × NIFPVg-17-12 respectively. None of the crosses were found significantly superior to the standard check but gave a superior yield than the standard check (GDF-1). The highest heterosis over standard check found was 12.12 for GDF-1 × NIFPVg-17-12. Presence of many challenges, in utilizing pea as a study material like low yielding nature, lower harvest index, difficulty in crossing, lower success rate in crossing. This study was done to overcome the yield barriers and finding best heterotic combination. ','Heterosis, relative heterosis, heterobeltiosis and standard heterosis.','In the case of heterosis over the mid-parent, significant positive heterosis was observed for all the characters under observation. Over better parents, the cross NF-18-52 (Local) × NIFPVg-17-12 and NIFPVg-1710× NIFPVg-17-12 showed significant desirable heterotic cross combination for branches per plant and seeds per pod, and cross NIFPGr-17-64 × NF-18-52 (Local) for pods per plant. In the case of standard heterosis, the cross NF-18-52 (Local) × NIFPVg-17-12 showed a significantly desirable heterotic combination for seeds per pod and branches per plant. Cross NIFPVg-17-10 × NIFPVg-17-12 found significant heterotic for days to maturity and branches per plant. Cross NIFPGr-17-64 × NIFPVg-17-12 found significant heterotic over the standard check for plant height and seeds per pod and GDF-1×NIFPVg-17-10 for 100-seed weight. These crosses can be utilized for higher biomass and yield. For further improvement going for population improvement methods, such as biparental and diallel selective mating would be the most desirable breeding approach. ','Fieldpea (Pisum sativum L. var. arvense) is an important commercial Rabi pulse crop in India. Two types of peas are generally cultivated i.e. one is fieldpea (Pisum sativum L. var. arvense) and another one is garden pea (Pisum sativum L.var. hortense). Among them, fieldpea is generally used for its dry, mature pods while garden pea is for vegetable purpose. The chromosome number of pea is 2n = 14. It is a self-pollinated crop which belongs to the family Papilionaceae. Fieldpea has high levels of the amino acids, lysine, and tryptophan, which are relatively low in cereal grains. Fieldpea contains approximately 21 to 25 per cent protein. Even though being rich in nutrition, it is mainly taken as minor crop in India. Heterosis or hybrid vigor may be defined as the superiority of a F1 hybrid over both the parents in terms of yield and some other character (Shull, 1914). It is firstly reported in plants by Koelreuter (1766) in Nicotiana spp. The magnitude of heterosis helps in the identification of potential crosses to be used in conventional breeding programmes to enable and create a wide array of variability in segregating generations.\r\nThe exploitation of heterosis in crop plants is regarded as one of the breakthroughs in the field of plant breeding. The application of heterosis is considered to be an outstanding application of principles of genetics in agriculture. The scopes of exploitation of heterosis depend on the directions and magnitude of heterosis and the type of gene action involved. The economically important character for fieldpea is the yield per plant but other component characters also contribute towards yield. The measure of heterosis over better parent and standard check is of great practical importance in plant breeding. In the present investigation, therefore, the heterosis has been measured over the mid parent, better parent, and standard check. Thus, heterosis analysis aimed to search out the best combination of parents for their prospects for future use in the breeding programme to be utilized for developing high yielding varieties.\r\nMATERIALS AND METHODS\r\nThis experimental study carried out in two seasons in which during Rabi-2018 for crossing and Rabi-2019 for evaluation at Castor and Pulses Research Station, Navsari agricultural university, Navsari. Six different elite genotypes (NIFPGr-17-64, GDF-1, NF-18-52 (Local), NIFPVg-17-10, NIFPVg-17-12, and NIFPGr-17-64) were used to carry out heterosis analysis for yield and yield attributing traits in fieldpea. All the six genotypes were crossed in half diallel fashion (Griffing, 1956a and 1956b) to generate 15 hybrids. The experiment design used was a randomized block design (Nandarajan and Gunasekaran 2005) with three replications. Here one outstanding parent used in the experiment was used as a check i.e. GDF-1. The per se performance of F1’s and Parents along with estimates of heterosis are mentioned in Table 1 to 5. Heterosis was estimated using the following formulas.\r\nHeterosis (%)= (F ̅_1-(MP) ̅)/(MP) ̅ ×100\r\nHeterobeltiosis (%)= (F ̅_1-(BP) ̅)/(BP) ̅ ×100\r\nStandard check (%)= (F ̅_1-(SC) ̅)/(SC) ̅ ×100\r\nWhere,\r\nF ̅_1 = Mean performance of the F1 hybrid\r\n(MP) ̅ = Mean value of the parents (P1 and P2) of a hybrid\r\n(BP) ̅ = Mean value of better parent\r\n(SC) ̅ = Mean value of Standard check (GDF-1)\r\nA large number of hybrids had significantly desired heterosis over the mid parent, better parent, and standard check for various characters under study. Negative heterosis is considered desirable for 50 per cent flowering, days to maturity, and plant height, while for the rest of the characters significant positive heterosis was considered desirable. The present study is an attempt to access the possibilities of commercial exploitation of heterosis and to develop better varieties and elite lines for further breeding programmes. The results in this direction are being discussed in the following ways. As regards heterosis over the mid parent, better parent and standard check a large number of crosses recorded significant in the desired direction for days to 50 per cent flowering (7, 4, and 6), duration to reproductive phase (9, 8, and 9), days to maturity (7, 5 and 3), plant height (6, 2 and 0), branches per plant (11, 6 and 15), pods per plant (8, 5 and 7), seeds per pod (9, 7 and 10), pod length (10, 4 and 2), 100-seed weight (6, 3 and 3) and yield per plant (9, 5 and 6).\r\nFor yield per plant (9, 5, and 6) crosses showed significant positive relative heterosis, heterobeltiosis, and standard heterosis respectively. The cross combination NIFPGr-17-64 × NF-18-52 (Local) exhibited the highest heterosis, heterobeltiosis, and cross GDF-1 × NIFVg-17-12 exhibited the highest heterosis over the standard check. The results are in agreement with the findings of Punia et al. (2011); Dagla et al. (2013); Sharma and Bora (2013); Yadav et al. (2015); Joshi et al. (2015); Brar et al. (2016); Dhyani (2016); Kumar et al. (2017); Hariom et al. (2017); Askander and Osman (2018); Tampha et al. (2018); Nagheswar et al. (2020); Zyada and Samar (2021). \r\nWith regards to days to 50 per cent flowering cross, NIFPGr-17-64 × NIFVg17-12 manifested numerically \r\nhigher negative heterosis over the mid parent, better parent, and standard check for days to 50 per cent flowering. The results are akin to the findings of Dagla et al. (2013); Sharma and Bora (2013); Yadav et al. (2015); Joshi et al. (2015); Brar et al. (2016); Hariom et al. (2017); Tampha et al. (2018); Askander and Osman (2018); Galal et al. (2019); Kumar et al. (2019); Katoch et al. (2019); Nagheswar et al. (2020); and Kumar et al. (2021). The results for the duration to reproductive phase revealed that cross NF-18-52 (Local) × NIFVg17-10 had significant heterosis over the mid parent, cross NIFPGr-17-64 × NIFPGr-17-63 over the better parent and cross GDF-1 × NIFVg-17-12 over the standard check. \r\nThe results for days to maturity (7, 5, and 3) crosses expressed significant negative heterosis, heterobeltiosis, and standard check in the direction of early maturity. The cross NIFPGr-17-64 × NIFVg-17-12 had significant negative heterosis over mid-parent and better parent. The cross NIFVg-17-10 × NIFVg-17-12 was recorded with the highest negative heterosis over the standard check. The results are as per the findings of Dagla et al. (2013); Yadav et al. (2015); Kumar et al. (2017); Hariom et al. (2017); Tampha et al. (2018); Nagheswar et al. (2020). \r\nWith regards to plant height cross, NIFPGr-17-64 × NF-18-52 (Local) manifested numerically higher negative heterosis over mid parent and cross NF-18-52 (Local) × NIFVg-17-10 over better parent for plant height. The results are akin to the findings of Dagla et al. (2013); Kosev (2014); Yadav et al. (2015); Brar et al. (2016); Hariom et al. (2017); Tampha et al. (2018); Askander and Osman (2018); Galal et al. (2019); Kumar et al. (2019); Katoch et al. (2019); Nagheswar et al. (2020); Zyada and Samar (2021); Kumar et al. (2021). \r\nCross NF-18-52 (Local) × NIFVg-17-12 depicted the highest heterosis, heterobeltiosis, and standard heterosis, respectively for branches per plant. The results are in agreement with the findings of Ceyhan et al. (2008); Yadav et al. (2015); Hariom et al. (2017); Kumar et al. (2019); Nagheswar et al. (2020); Zyada and Samar (2021); Kumar et al. (2021). \r\nThe best performing cross for pods per plant was NIFPGr-17-64 × NF-18-52 (Local) over mid parent and better parent and cross GDF-1 × NIFVg-17-12 over the standard check. Significant positive pods per plant were also reported by Ceyhan et al. (2008); Dagla et al. (2013); Sharma and Bora (2013); Yadav et al. (2015); Joshi et al. (2015); Hariom et al. (2017); Kosev (2015); Brar et al. (2016); Tampha et al. (2018); Galal et al. (2019); Kumar et al. (2019); Katoch et al. (2019); Nagheswar et al. (2020); Zyada and Samar (2021); Kumar et al. (2021). \r\nConcerning seeds per pod cross NF-18-52 (Local) × NIFVg-17-12 depicted the highest heterosis, heterobeltiosis, and cross NIFPGr-17-64 × NIFVg-17-12 showed the highest standard heterosis, respectively. The results are in agreement with the findings of Ceyhan et al. (2008); Dagla et al. (2013); Yadav et al. (2015); Joshi et al. (2015); Hariom et al. (2017); Kumar et al. (2017); Askander and Osman (2018); Tampha et al. (2018); Galal et al. (2019); Kumar et al. (2019); Katoch et al. (2019); Nagheswar et al. (2020); Zyada and Samar (2021); Kumar et al. (2021). \r\nThe best performing cross for pod length was NF-18-52 (Local) × NIFVg-1712 over mid parent and cross GDF-1 × NIFVg-17-10 over better parent and standard check. Significant positive pod length was also reported by Dagla et al. (2013); Kosev (2014); Yadav et al. (2015); Brar et al. (2016); Hariom et al. (2017); Kumar et al. (2017); Galal et al. (2019); Kumar et al. (2019); Katoch et al. (2019); Nagheswar et al. (2020); Zyada and Samar (2021); Kumar et al. (2021). \r\nFor 100-seed weight, the cross combination NIFVg-17-12 × NIFPGr-17-64 exhibited the highest heterosis over the mid parent, and cross GDF-1 × NF-18-52 (Local) exhibited the highest heterosis over better parent and standard check. The results are in agreement with the findings of Ceyhan et al. (2008); Dagla et al. (2013); Brar et al. (2016); Kumar et al. (2017); Hariom et al. (2017); Tampha et al. (2018); Galal et al. (2019); Nagheswar et al. (2020); Zyada and Samar (2021). \r\nThe top five cross combinations for yield per plant were GDF-1 × NIFPVg-17-12, NIFPVg-1712 × NIFPGr-17-63, GDF-1 × NIFPVg-17-10, NF-18-52(Local) × NIFPGr17-12, and NIFPGr-17-64 × NIFPVg-17-12 respectively. None of the crosses were found significantly superior to the standard check but gave a superior yield than the standard check. The crosses between average × good parent and average × average parent gave superior combinations may be due to the combining of superior genes. But the cross between poor × good parents gave a superior combination maybe because of the dominance effect of the good parent genes. The cross GDF-1 × NIFPVg-17-12 was also found significant for days to 50 per cent flowering, duration of reproductive phase, days to maturity, pods per plant over the mid parent, and standard check. Cross NIFPVg-17-12 × NIFPGr-17-63 was also found significant for days to 50 per cent flowering, duration of reproductive phase, and plant height over mid parent and standard check. Cross GDF-1 × NIFPVg-17-10 was found significant for plant height and 100-seed weight over mid parent and standard check. \r\n','Suchitra, D.A. Chauhan and Sheetal Gupta (2022). Study of Heterosis and per se Performance in Fieldpea (Pisum sativum L.) . Biological Forum – An International Journal, 14(2): 126-131.'),(4808,'125','Analysis of Personal, Socio-economic Characteristics and Information Seeking Pattern of Non-Timber Forest Produce (NTFP) collectors of Jammu Region of J&K','Y.S. Bagal*, Rakesh Nanda, L.K. Sharma, N.S. Raina and S.E.H. Rizvi','24 Analysis of Personal, Socio-economic Characteristics and Information Seeking Pattern of Non- Timber Forest Produce NTFP collectors of Jammu Region of J&K Y.S. Bagal.pdf','',1,'The present research study was undertaken to analyze the different socio-personal characteristics and information seeking pattern of Non- Timber Forest Produce (NTFP) collectors of Jammu Region of J&K. The present study was conducted in three forest divisions of Jammu region with 50 randomly selected NTFP collectors from each forest division thereby making a total sample of 150 respondents. Multistage random sampling technique was employed for selecting the respondents. Major findings indicate that average age of respondents was 40.58 years, average schooling years was 6.07 years, and average family size was six. Average operational land holding size was 0.55 ha and majority (86%) collectors were marginal farmers and average farming experience was 22.62 years. Only 3 percent households were solely dependent upon NTFP collection for earning their livelihood. NTFP contractors and group meetings were main source utilized by collectors for obtaining information followed by friends and relatives.','Information, livelihood, Non- Timber Forest Produce, socio-personal characteristics.','It is concluded on the basis of the findings that majority of the NTFP collectors were belongs to young age, had kaccha house, had priority household ration card. NTFP collectors studied upto sixth standard, about one- fifth of the respondents in both the categories were illiterate. Also majority of the households were lived in nuclear type of families. About one- tenth of the collectors were solely dependent on NTFP income. More than two- third of the collectors were labours.','Forest play a vital role for the continuation of ecological, biological and environmental balance and also forest has a unique role in the socio – economic existence of the people of India (Quang, 2006). As per World Bank indicator, the total geographical area of world under forest was 39,991,336 sq km which is 30.716 percent of total geographical area. About 1.6 billon people of the world depend on forests for livelihood (FAO, 2015). India is the seventh largest country in the world though it owns 1.8% of the global forests on the 2.5% of the global land area. In India, it was reported that 706,820 sq km (23.83%) of the area is under forests (World Bank indictor, 2016). Jammu and Kashmir (J&K) state is having 20,230 sq km of the forest area which is around 20 percent of its geographical area. In Jammu region, Kashmir region and Ladakh region it was reported to be 12000 sq km, 8128 sq km and 36 sq km respectively (DES, 2013-14). The main tree species abundantly wild grown in sub tropical region with paramount NTFP importance are Acacia catechu, Acacia nilotica (L.) Wild ex Del. (Kikar/ Ferlai), Aegle marmelos L. Corr. Serr (Bael), Carissa spinarum L. (Garna), Cordia dichotoma var. wallichii (Lasura), Ficus palmate Forsk. syn. F. virganta roxb (Fakhana/Fakuaara/Fakura), Flacourtia indica (Burm.f.) Merr (Kakoa), Ficus roxburghii Wall (Trimbal/ Rumbel), Ziziphus xylopyrus (Retz.) Willd. (Keth Ber), Ziziphus nummularia (Burm. f.) Wight & Walk.-Arn. In intermediate zone Pinus roxburghii Roxb.ex Lamb., olive, Pyrus pashia Buch.-Ham. ex D. Don etc are found. The temperate region comprises of Cedrus deodara, Juglans regia, Pinus gerardiana etc are of crucial economic importance from NTFP point of view (Slathia and Paul 2012). Some important non- timber forest products (NTFP) available in J&K are Saussuria costus (Falc) Lipsch (Kuth), Berberis lyceum Royle (Rasount), Viola canescence (Bunafsha), wild apriot, Dioscorea deltoidea (Kins), Aloe vera Tourn. Ex Linn.(Aloe), Morchella esculenta L. (Gucchi) etc. The people living in the vicinity of the forest collect the NFTPs for their livelihood sustainability as an off- farm income for them. It has already been reported in different studies that characteristics of farming community play a crucial role in adoption of different recommended production technologies. It has already been reported in different studies that gender, age, education level, social participation, farm implement possession, land holding, type of family, marital status (Minj and Quli 2000; McElwee 2008; Rodrigez, 2007; Bullock et al., 2003; Raufu et al., 2012; Sharma, 2015) significantly affect the farmers\' decision to go foe collection of NTFPs. Keeping this point of view the present study entitled “Analysis of personal, socio-economic characteristics and information seeking pattern of non- timber forest produce (NTFP) collectors of Jammu Region of J&K” was undertaken.\r\nMETHODOLOGY\r\nThe present study was conducted in Jammu region. Multistage sampling plan was followed for drawl of ultimate sampling units. The East circle from Jammu region was purposively selected as it covers all the three agro- climatic zones namely Subtropical, Intermediate and Temperate, thus it represents the whole Jammu division. East forest circle comprises of seven forest divisions, out of these three forest divisions; Basholi, Ramnagar and Udhampur were selected by employing random selection procedure without replacement. From each randomly selected forest division, one forest range having maximum NTFP availability were selected. Thus Basantgarh, Dudu and Bani forest ranges from Ramnagar, Udhampur and Basholi forest divisions respectively. From Basantgarh and Dudu forest ranges one forest block each having maximum NTFP collection were selected. Whereas from Bani forest range, firstly one forest block was selected but due to non- availability of total ultimate sampling units, second ranked forest bock was also selected for data collection. The collectors and non collectors were the ultimate sampling units. The available collectors were contacted with the snow ball sampling procedure, from the each selected beat 50 collectors were selected, thereby making a total sample size of 150 collectors. Data were collected from the sampled respondent on the pre-tested interview schedule by contacting personally on their fields or at their homes. Analysis of collected data was performed using SPSS 16.0 (statistical package for social sciences) software.\r\nRESULTS AND DISCUSSION\r\nThe data presented in the Table 1 reveals that the overall average age in all the three forest divisions was 40.58 years (±12.14). Majority of collectors (49%) belong to middle age group (36-54 years) followed by 41 percent (18-36 years) young age group and 10 percent (54-86 years) old age group. This was supported by the results of Shivaprasad (2016) who also reported that majority (78%) of the NTFP collectors belong to the age group of 30-50 years. Similar results were reported by McElwee (2008) who found that the elderly people are less likely to collect NTFPs from the forest, hence they rely more on their agricultural farms because they may not have the strength to carry out forest-related activities, as it involves a body challenging trek to the upper reaches of the mountains, where NTFPs are mostly found.The overall average farming experience of collectors in all the three forest divisions was 22.62 years (±11.38). The overall average NTFP collection experience of collectors in all the three forest divisions was 17.19 years (±7.53). Dutt and Chole (2002) also reported similar results in their study. Data presented in Table 1 regarding type of house show that overall 75 percent of collectors had kacha house followed by 25 percent which had semi- kacha house while none of them had pacca house 67 percent of collectors had kisan credit card and 95 percent had MGNERGA card. With regards to ration card, 71 percent of collectors had PHH ration card while 29 percent had NPHH ration card. Overall 97 percent of the collectors had toilets in their homes. With regards to telephone connectivity, overall 97 percent of the NTFP collectors had mobile connectivity out of which 13 percent of them had smartphones.\r\nThe overall percentage of the education of collectors in three forest divisions was 30 percent primary, 26 percent middle, 12 percent were matric, 7 percent were below primary, 5 percent 10+2 level and only one percent were graduate and above. Whereas 19 percent of the respondents were illiterate. The average formal education of collectors was highest in Ramnagar forest division 6.94 years (±4.2) followed by 6.48 years (±1.94) in Basohli and lowest was in Udhampur 4.80 years (±4.00). A close look at Table 2 indicates that the highest literacy rate of collectors’ household was found in Ramnagar forest division (79.20%) followed by Udhampur (70.43%) and least in Basohli (66.32%). The overall literacy rate of collectors was 71.72 per cent. Literacy index of household of the collectors in Ramnagar forest division was found to be 2.35, followed by 1.83 in Basohli and 1.82 in Udhampur. \r\nLiteracy index of overall household of the collectors was 1.89.\r\nIt was categorized into nuclear and joint family, in case of collectors in Ramnagar forest division 78 percent respondents had nuclear families followed by 64 percent in Udhampur and 38 percent in Basohli district. Overall 60 percent of the collectors lived in nuclear family, where rest lived in joint family. With regard to family size, the average family size of collectors in Basohli was 6.24 (±2.03) followed by 6 (±2.20) in Udhampur and 5.82 (±1.91) in Ramnagar forest division. The overall average family size of collectors in all the three forest divisions was 6.02 (±2.03). In case of collectors the number of females per thousand of males was 840, 782 and 731 in Udhampur, Basohli and Ramnagar forest divisions respectively. Overall for collectors there were 784 numbers of females per thousand of males.\r\nData given in Table 4 revealed that in case of collectors average operational land holding in Ramnagar, Basohli and Udhampur forest divisions was 0.65, 0.44 and 0.55 hectares including unirrigated land holdings 0.65, 0.44 and 0.49 hectares respectively. Overall average operational land holding of collectors in the study area was 0.55 hectare with irrigated area of 0.02 hectare. In Ramnagar forest division 82 percent collectors were in the category of marginal farmers (<1ha) followed by 14percent small farmers (1-2ha), 12 percent semi-medium farmers (2-4ha) and two percent medium farmers (4-10ha). In Basohli forest division all the collectors were in the category of marginal farmers (<1ha). In Udhampur forest division 78per centcollectors were in the category of marginal farmers (<1ha) followed by 22 percent small farmers (1-2ha). With regards to overall collectors, 86 per centcollectors were in the category of marginal farmers (<1ha) followed by 12 percent small farmers (1-2ha) and equal percent (1%) fall in semi-medium (2-4ha) and medium category (4-10ha).\r\nThe results presented in Table 5 revealed that, total family members size was 903, including 66 percent adult members and 38 percent were earning members with dependency ratio of 1:2.96. Out of 150 sampled households of collectors only three percent were solely dependent on NTFP income. Collector households having other sources of income including NTFP and Agriculture were 97 percent which includes labour (64%), private job (9%), labour + private job (9%), shop (6%), labour + government service (2%) and any other (3%).\r\n\r\nData presented in Table 6 reflected the different source of information utilized by collectors and it was found that none of the collector was aware about NGOs. 98 percent of the respondents get information from NTFP contractors, while 84 percent get information from input dealers, 63 percent from progressive farmers, 89 percent from friends/ relatives, 98 from group meetings and 17 percent from kisanmela. Likewise for television, only 3 percent were getting agriculture/ NTFP related information. About trainings, only two percent were attended any training ever. None of the collectors were aware about Kissan Call Center.\r\nCategorization was done on the basis of level of source of utilization and it was found that 94 percent of collectors were under medium source utilization category (6-7 sources) and equal percent (3%) were fall under low (0-5 sources) and more utilization (above 7 sources) categories.\r\n','Y.S. Bagal, Rakesh Nanda, L.K. Sharma, N.S. Raina and S.E.H. Rizvi (2022). Analysis of Personal, Socio-economic Characteristics and Information Seeking Pattern of Non- Timber Forest Produce (NTFP) collectors of Jammu Region of J&K. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 14(2): 132-136.'),(4809,'125','Stimulatory effect of different Plant Growth Regulators on Cosmos seed Production in New Alluvial Zone','Aritra Mukherjee, Sanjoy Kumar Bordolui* and Raghunath Sadhukhan','25 Stimulatory Effect of Different Plant Growth Regulators on Cosmos seed Production in New Alluvial Zone Sanjoy Kumar Bordolui.pdf','',1,'Cosmos is one of the important flowers in India. Seed is also important to get quality production and prime seed produces better production. With the above consideration, the present investigation was carried out with composite genotype of cosmos seeds. The different concentrations of plant growth regulators were sprayed to the plants with an objective to enhance seed yield and yield attributing characters. The different treatments were control (T0), GA3 @ 50 ppm (T1), GA3 @ 100 ppm (T2), GA3 @ 150 ppm (T3), Kinetin @ 25 ppm (T4), Kinetin @ 75 ppm (T5), IBA @ 100 ppm (T6), IBA @ 400 ppm (T7). The research work was conducted at Horticulture Research Station, Mondouri, Bidhan Chandra Krishi Viswavidyalaya, Mohanpur, Nadia, West Bengal, India during Rabi season of 2019-20 and 2020-2021. All the treatments resulted in improved seed yield and yield attributing characters compared with unsprayed; however, highest size of flowers was recorded in IBA @ 100 ppm. So, it could be considered as the best performer different plant growth regulator considering flower diameter. Highest seed yield was recorded in IBA @ 400 ppm (219.6 g m-2 in 1st year and 220.267 g m-2 in 2nd year) and in same concentration of IBA (i.e @ 400 ppm) number of seed plant-1 was also highest. So, IBA @ 400 ppm could be recommended in seed production as it was the best performer plant growth regulator in cosmos. ','Cosmos, Gibberellic Acid, Kinetin, Indole-Butyric Acid, seed yield.','According to the size of flowers, highest was recorded in IBA @ 100 ppm. So, it could be considered as the best performer different plant growth regulator considering flower diameter. Seed yield was recorded highest in IBA @ 400 ppm (219.6 g m-2 in 1st year and 220.267 g m-2 in 2nd year) and in same concentration of IBA (i.e @ 400 ppm) number of seed plant-1 was also highest. So, IBA @ 400 ppm could be considered as the \r\nbest performer plant growth regulator considering its seeds yield. Concomitant consideration of seed yield and its important attributes may indicate to recommend foliar application of different plant growth regulator for enhancement in seed yield. Similar to the seed yield and its attributes, plant growth and development have been noticed to be positively influenced by different plant growth regulator concentrations, may lead to recommend foliar application of IBA @ 400 ppm for commercial cultivation of cosmos seed.\r\n','Cosmos from the family of Asteraceae is an annual, herbaceous ornamental crop. The genus name Cosmos comes from the Greek word ‘kosmos’ that literally means ‘beauty’ with a “root idea of orderliness; hence an ornament or beautiful thing” (Bailey, 1924). Members of the Cosmos family find its origin in the tropical and subtropical world especially Mexico which is also center of diversity of other 40 species. Infact Melchert (1976) described the Cosmos species as ‘pantropical’. Cosmos genera plants are diploid with a chromosome no. of 2n=24 except C. caudatus which is tetraploid. Asteraceae is one among the largest families of flowering plants which contains a whooping 1620 genera and more than 23,600 species. Members of the Asteraceae family can be distinguished by their flowers (florets) in heads (capitula) surrounded by bracts. The small, single-seeded fruit often with a plumose pappus aids in wind dispersal. Though, Cosmos genera have awns instead of feathery pappus. The Cosmos plant is found almost in every continent except Antarctica. Early herbarium specimen records take us back as long as 1886 where it escaped cultivation in Puerto Rico. Nowadays it is a common roadside weed there. In Europe it was transported via galleons and grown in botanical gardens. In Africa Cosmos was introduced in South Africa by way of contaminated horse feed imported through Mexico during Boer war (1902) and got naturalized there. In Asia-Pacific the plant probably reached via galleon trade directly from Mexico. Cosmos caudatus was used as a vegetable on board the galleons and Cosmos sulpheureus was introduced as an ornamental flower. In Asia it grows in temperate regions like China and Taiwan and in tropical regions like India, Nepal, Bhutan etc. The cosmos plant can grow in tough conditions like poor soil, less organic matter, hot weather and dry conditions. Self-sowing is also observed in these genera. Plants die, disperse the seed in the soil. Different traits like ability to seed freely, self- compatibility, tolerance to tropical climates and its ability to grow in range of soils aids in its spread. Seeds have an essential function in reproduction of higher plants and often facilities of dispersal of the species. But the availability of quality cosmos seed in the market is very less. The spray of 10 ppm kinetin at 35 DAS along with Boron in chickpea exhibited higher performance in increasing plant height by 19.8% over control. The number of flowers plant-1 increased with kinetin (12%) sprays compared to control (Menaka et al., 2018). Sachin et al. (2021) reported that use of IBA @ 3000 ppm in apple clonal rootstocks resulted in reduced number of the days taken for first leaf initiation, enhanced the sprouting percentage of cuttings, and also maximum survival percentage of the cuttings. Ashwini et al. (2021) reported that in Finger millet variety ML-365 revealed Gibberellic acid 50 ppm showed significantly higher plant height, number of grains/finger and grain yield. Kumar and Sharma (2021) found that in pigeon pea optimum grain yield was obtained by treating them with GA3 @ 75 ppm at flower initiation stage. Although optimum net return was achieved by the foliar application of GA3 @ 50 ppm at flower initiation & pod initiation stages. Gaurha et al. (2021) showed that in lichi maximum plant height at 30, 60, 90, 120, 150 and 180 DAT in 50 ppm GA3 followed by 30 ppm GA3. In lemon maximum plant height, more chlorophyll content in leaves was recorded by treatment GA3 @ 25 ppm (Das et al., 2021). Verma et al. (2021) found that 75 ppm of GA3 showed maximized plant height (cm), fruit length (cm), fruit diameter (cm), fruit volume (cc), fruit weight per plant (g) and yield (q ha-1) in strawberry. GA3, IBA, Kinetin have been chemically identified in developing seeds they reach the highest levels known in plant organs. The simultaneous occurrence of peak values in hormone content and certain morphological and biochemical changes (Biswas et al., 2020; Singh et al., 2021). It is obvious that such correlations do not prove that hormones are causally involved in specific aspects of seed growth and development. Therefore, attempts have been made to test the causality of correlative evidence by environmental, chemical, or genetic manipulation of endogenous hormone levels on cosmos. \r\nMATERIALS AND METHODS\r\nThe research work was conducted at Horticulture Research Station, Mondouri, Bidhan Chandra Krishi Viswavidyalaya, Mohanpur, Nadia, West Bengal, India during Rabi season of 2019-20 and 2020-2021. The composite genotype of cosmos was taken as the experimental material for the present investigation, obtained from AICRP on floriculture, BCKV. The trial was carried out to evaluate the effect of foliar application with different plant growth regulators like Gibberellic Acid, Kinetin and Indole-Butyric Acid with different concentrations on Cosmos sp. The field trial was conducted to elucidate the effect of foliar application of GA3, IBA, and Kinetin over the untreated plants/control (T0) on flowering, plant growth, seed production in synthetic variety of Cosmos. The treatments were GA3 @ 50 ppm (T1), GA3 @ 100 ppm (T2), GA3 @ 150 ppm (T3), Kinetin @ 25 ppm (T4), Kinetin @ 75 ppm (T5), IBA @ 100 ppm (T6), IBA @ 400 ppm (T7). Composite genotypes of cosmos seeds were raised in individual plots following standard agronomic practices and intercultural operations. The soil of the experimental site is medium fertile, well drained and sandy loam in texture. The seeds were sown in field at spacing of 30 cm x 20 cm with three replications in 3m × 2m plot. Standard agronomic practices and intercultural operations were followed for raising seedlings in individual plots. Recommended fertilizer was applied in the main plot. Foliar application of GA3 @ 100 ppm was done at 25 days after transplanting (Ray and Bordolui, 2020). Five plants were randomly tagged at the early crop growth stage and observations on different traits were recorded like, plant height (cm), days to bud initiation, days to 50% flowering, flower diameter (cm), number of flowers plant-1, number of seeds flower-1, number of seeds plant-1, test weight (g) and seed yield (g m-2).\r\nRESULTS AND DISCUSSION\r\nInfluence of different plant growth regulators on performance of Cosmos: \r\nAssessment of influence of different plant growth regulators as foliar application was made over two consecutive years for different quality parameters was made during 2019-20 and 2020-21. Significant variations were observed most of the parameters among the effect of different plant growth regulators.\r\nPlant height (cm): Significant difference was observed in plant height after application of different growth regulators with different concentration in 1st year. Among the treatments, lowest plant height was noted for control plot (101.667 cm) during 2019-20 preceded by IBA @ 400 ppm and Kinetin @ 25 ppm, while it was highest for Kinetin @ 75 ppm followed by GA3 @ 50 ppm (Table 1). But non-significant variation was observed in IBA @ 400 ppm and Kinetin @ 25 ppm. Similar type of result was observed in second year (2020-2021), only change in magnitude (Table 1). Second year also significant difference was observed among the different plant growth regulators for plant height. But non-significant difference was observed in between GA3 @ 100 ppm and GA3 @ 150 ppm; GA3 @ 50 ppm and Kinetin @ 75 ppm; Kinetin @ 25 ppm and IBA @ 400 ppm in 2nd year. It is to be noted that plant height was accelerated with the application of different growth regulators and it is directly related with the enhancement in different growth regulators concentration i.e., increased plant height took place with the use of different growth regulators concentration.\r\nDays to bud initiation: Days to bud initiation significantly difference observed after application of different growth regulators with different concentration in 1st year. Among the treatments, longest duration days to bud initiation was noted for control plot (50.133 days) during 2019-20 followed by GA3 @ 50 ppm, while it was minimum for IBA @ 100 ppm preceded by IBA @ 400 ppm, though both Control Plot and GA3 @ 50 ppm; GA3 @ 100 ppm and GA3 @ 150 ppm; Kinetin @ 75 ppm and Kinetin @ 25 ppm performed at par with each other i.e these different concentrations of plant growth regulators were non-significant difference for this trait (Table 1). It is to be noted that days to bud initiation was accelerated with the application of different growth regulators and it is directly related with the enhancement in different growth regulators concentration i.e., consistent reduction in days to bud initiation took place with the use of different growth regulators concentration. But in 2nd year non-significant difference was observed in days to bud initiation after application of different growth regulators with different concentration. Among the treatments, longest time taken in control plot (52.667 days) during 2020-21 followed by GA3 @ 100 ppm, while different concentration of plant growth regulators were non-significant difference for this trait (Table 1).\r\nDays to 50% flowering: In case of days to 50% flowering significant difference was observed after application of different growth regulators with different concentration in 1st year. Among the treatments, longest duration to 50% flowering was noted for Control Plot (59.933 days) during 2019-20 followed by GA3 @50 ppm, while it was minimum for IBA @ 100 ppm preceded by Kinetin @ 75 ppm, though both Control Plot and GA3 @ 50 ppm; GA3 @ 100 ppm, GA3 @ 150 ppm and Kinetin @ 25 ppm; Kinetin @ 75 ppm, IBA@100ppm and IBA @ 400ppm performed at par with each other (Table 1). It is to be noted that lesser time was taken for days to 50% flowering by the application of different growth regulators and it is directly related with the enhancement in different growth regulators concentration; consistent reduction in days to 50% flowering took place with the use of different growth regulators concentration. Significant difference was not observed for this parameter in 2nd year also. Among the treatments, longest duration to 50 % flowering was noted for control plot (63.667 days) during 2020-21 followed by GA3 @150 ppm, while it was minimum for IBA @ 100 ppm preceded by IBA @ 400 ppm and Kinetin @ 75 ppm (Table 1). It is to be noted that lesser time to 50% flowering was accelerated with the application of different growth regulators and it is directly related with the enhancement in different growth regulators concentration; consistent reduction in days to 50% flowering took place with the use of different growth regulators concentration. \r\nNumber of flowers plant-1: Number of flowers plant-1 significantly varied after application of different growth regulators with different concentration in both the year. Among the treatments, least flowers per plant was noted for control plot (40.933 nos) during 2019-20 preceded by GA3 @ 50 ppm, while it was maximum for IBA @ 100 ppm followed by GA3 @ 150 ppm (Table 2). Similar trend was observed during 2020-21 (Table 2). Shirzad et al. (2012) also found that in pumpkin IBA 100 ppm had significant effects on number of flower/plant. It is to be noted that number of flower per \r\nplant was accelerated with the application of different growth regulators and it is directly related with the enhancement in different growth regulators concentration i.e., consistent increase in no. of flowers per plant took place with the use of different growth regulators concentration.\r\nFlower diameter (cm): For both the year significant difference observed in flower diameter after application of different growth regulators with different concentration. Among the treatments, shortest flower diameter was noted for control plot (7.263 cm ) during 2019-20 followed by GA3 @ 100 ppm and @ 150 ppm, while it was maximum for IBA @ 100 ppm (8.382 cm), closely followed by Kinetin @25 ppm, IBA @400 ppm and GA3 @ 50 ppm (Table 2). GA3@ 50 ppm, Kinetin@ 75 ppm, Kinetin@ 25 ppm, IBA @ 100 ppm and IBA @ 400 ppm showed the non-significant variation for this trait during 2019-2020. But during 2020-21, among the treatments, lowest flower diameter was noted for control plot (6.733 cm) preceded by GA3 @ 150 ppm and @ 100 ppm, while it was maximum for IBA @ 100 ppm (8.433 cm) followed by GA3 @ 50 ppm, Kinetin @25 ppm, Kinetin @75 ppmand IBA @400 ppm (Table 2). But Kinetin@ 75 ppm, Kinetin@ 25 ppm, and IBA @ 100 ppm showed the non-significant variation for this treatment during 2020-2021. Similar type of result was observed by Shirzad et al. (2012). It is to be noted that the flower diameter was accelerated with the application of different growth regulators and it is directly related with the enhancement in different growth regulators concentration i.e., consistent enlargement of flower diameter took place with the use of different growth regulators concentration.\r\nNumber of seed flower-1: Number of seed flower-1 varied significantly after application of different growth regulators with different concentration in both the year. Among the treatments, minimum number of seed per flower was noted for control plot (22.067) during 2019-20 preceded by Kinetin @ 25 ppm, while it was maximum for GA3 @ 100 ppm followed by GA3 @ 50 ppm, though both Control Plot and Kinetin @ 25 ppm; GA3 @ 50 ppm and GA3 @ 100 ppm and IBA @ 400 ppm performed at par with each other (Table 3). But during 2020-21, among the treatments, lowest number of seed per flower was noted for control plot (19.667 nos.) preceded by Kinetin @ 25 ppm, while it was highest for GA3 @ 100 ppm (39.333 nos.) followed by IBA @ 400 ppm, though both Kinetin @ 25 ppm, Kinetin @ 75 ppm and IBA @ 100 ppm performed at par with each other (Table 3). It is to be noted that number of seed per flower was accelerated with the application of different growth regulators. Similar effects were reported by Biswas et al. (2021) for aster and Ray and Bordolui (2020) for marigold resulted in \r\nincreased number of seed flower-1 after foliar application of GA3. \r\nNumber of seed plant-1: Significant difference observed in number of seed per plant after application of different growth regulators with different concentration in both the year. Among the treatments, highest no. of seed per plant was observed in IBA @ 400 ppm followed by GA3 @ 150 ppm and lowest no. of seed per plant was noted for control plot (1246) preceded by Kinetin @ 25 ppm during 2019-20 (Table 3). It is to be noted that no. of seed per plant was accelerated with the application of different growth regulators and it is directly related with the enhancement in different growth regulators concentration i.e., consistent increase in no. of seed per plant took place with the use of different growth regulators concentration. Similar trend was observed during 2020-21for number of seed per plant after application of different growth regulators with different concentration (Table 3). Similar effects were reported by El-Shraiy and Hegazi et al. (2009). It is to be noted that number of seed per plant was accelerated with the application of different growth regulators.\r\n \r\n\r\nTest weight (g): Non-significant difference observed in test weight after application of different growth regulators with different concentration in both the year. Among the treatments, highest test weight was noted for IBA @ 100 ppm (6.948 g) followed by GA3 @ 150 ppm, while it was lowest for control plot (6.203 g) preceded by GA3 @ 100 ppm during 2019-20 (Table 4). Similar trend was recorded during 2020-21, only little bit change of the magnitude. \r\nSeed Yield (g m-2): Significant difference was observed in seed yield (g m-2) after application of different growth regulators with different concentration in both the year. Among the treatments, highest seed yield was noted for \r\nIBA @ 400 ppm (219.6 g m-2) followed by IBA @ 100 ppm, while it was lowest for control plot (109.433 gm) preceded by Kinetin @ 25 ppm during 2019-20, though both Control Plot and Kinetin @ 25 ppm; GA3 @ 50 ppm, GA3 @ 100 ppm and GA3 @ 150 ppm performed at par with each other (Table 4). During 2020-21 among the treatments, highest yield plot-1 was noted for IBA @ 400 ppm (220.267 g m-2) followed by GA3 @ 150 ppm, while it was lowest for control plot (111.733 gm) preceded by Kinetin @ 25 ppm (Table 4). Similar effects were reported by Shirzad et al. (2012). It was observed that higher seed yield (g m2) was accelerated with the application of different growth regulators.\r\n \r\n','Aritra Mukherjee, Sanjoy Kumar Bordolui and Raghunath Sadhukhan (2022). Stimulatory Effect of Different Plant Growth Regulators on Cosmos seed Production in New Alluvial Zone. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 14(2): 137-142.'),(4810,'125','Performance of Mustard as Intercrop in Eucalyptus tereticornis based Cropping System in Semi-Arid Ecosystem of India','Stanley Kombra*, K.S. Ahlawat, Chhavi Sirohi, V. Dalal, Sanjay Kumar, P. Poonia, Sneh Yadav and Mamta Khaiper','26 Performance of Mustard as Intercrop in Eucalyptus tereticornis Based Cropping System in Semi-Arid Ecosystem of India K.S. Ahlawat.pdf','',1,'To evaluate the effect of eucalypts plantation (2.8 years old) on growth, yield attributes and yields of mustard the present investigation was carried out. The plant height of mustard was significantly lesser under eucalypts plantation as compared to sole cropping. Days to 50% flowering (63.1) and maturity (146.2) were higher in mustard intercropped with eucalypts than sole mustard. Plants per meter row length, number of siliqua/plant, seeds per siliqua and test weight were recorded higher under sole mustard than eucalypts based agroforestry system. Grain and stover yield significantly declined under eucalypts over control (sole mustard). Per cent decrease in grain yield of mustard under eucalypts over control was 17.65. The net return from eucalypts based cropping system were Rs. 92037/ha while extremely low net returns (Rs. 11324/ ha) was obtained from sole mustard cropping system. ','Eucalypts, mustard, agroforestry, siliqua, yield.','In this study, growth, biomass accumulation, yield attributes, grain, straw and biological yield of mustard were observed to decline under eucalypts based cropping system as compared to sole mustard. However, the overall findings of the present study elucidates that tree based cropping system (agroforestry) is more profitable as the tree component sale at the harvesting age not only compensate the yield reduction of agricultural crops but also adds a huge amount of net returns as compared to sole cropping (devoid of tree). Therefore, agroforestry system not only mitigate the climate change through carbon sequestration, improves soil health but also bestow extra income to the farmers/stakeholders.','The \'red gum,\' Eucalyptus terreticornis, native to Australia and Papua, New Guinea, is one of the fast growing tree species that has spread throughout the world. Due to its rapid growth rate, adaptability to a wide range of climatic and edaphic conditions and diverse uses, it has been encouraged in many tropical countries (Zobel et al., 1987; Evans, 1992; Kumar et al., 2013). It is the most preferred tree for planting around the boundaries, or bunds of agricultural fields. Eucalypts is resistant to salinity and has great potential in reclaiming wastelands and even act as a bio-drainage plant. Presently, a eucalypts plantation is in 95 nations with a total plantation area of more than 22.57 million hectares (Zhang and Wang 2021). Owing to its assured marketing and profitable returns, eucalypts is the most preferred species for agroforestry plantations in India (Prasad et al., 2010; Dhillon et al., 2018). It is also one of the most effective ways to increase tree cover in the forest. In present scenario, agroforestry is the only way to address the agricultural and ecological issues i.e. soil degradation, large-scale deforestation, increasing human and animal population pressure and a shrinking land-to-man ratio. Trees primarily alter radiations, carbon dioxide concentration, relative humidity, soil environment and wind speed (Dhillon et al., 2016; Ahlawat et al., 2019). Mustard is a major oilseed crop in the Cruciferae family, ranking second only to peanuts in terms of importance among oilseed crops. In India, the total cultivated area and production of rapeseed mustard is 6.78 mha and 9.12 million tones, respectively with average yield is 1345 kg/ha. (Anonymous, 2021). Kidanu et al. (2005) found that the significant reduction in grain yield of mustard in the first 12 m from the tree line of eucalypts boundary plantation and the reduction in grain yield was 20 to 51% over control (sole crop). Therefore, present investigation was designed to assess the growth, yield attributes and yield of mustard and economic returns under eucalypts-mustard based cropping system. \r\nMATERIALS AND METHODS\r\nThe experiment was carried out in the research field of Forestry department, CCS Haryana Agricultural University, Hisar, India situated at 29o 09N latitude and 75o 43E longitude at an elevation of 215.2 m above mean sea level. The climate is subtropical-monsoonal with an average annual rainfall of 350-400 mm, 70-80 per cent of which occurs during July to September. The summer months are very hot with mean maximum temperature ranging from 40 to 45oC (May and June) whereas; lowest temperature may reaches as low as 0°C (December and January). The mean monthly values of weather parameters viz., temperature, relative humidity, evaporation and rainfall were recorded during the period of experimentation (Fig. 1).\r\nMustard was sown in Eucalyptus terreticornis (7×3 m) as well as sole crop (devoid of tree) during the first fortnight of October 2017-18 with row to row distance of 30 cm and seed rate of 3 kg ha-1. As per the package and practice of the university, recommended doses of fertilizer (59.28 kg N, 19.76 kg P2O5 and 25 kg ha-1 zinc sulphate) were applied. The half amount of N and whole amount of P and zinc sulphate was applied at the time of sowing. The remaining dose of N through urea was top dressed at1st irrigation. Five plants selected randomly from each plot were tagged for recording plant height at 30, 60, 90, 120 DAS and at harvest.The fresh and dry matter accumulation was recorded in gram (g) using quadrant of 1m2 from each plot in four replications by first taking the fresh weight (green weight of root, stem and leaves). After air drying, the plants were dried in the oven at 720C till the constant weight achieved. The numbers of plants were counted at 20 days after sowing (DAS) in each plot in a running meter row length at four places. The number of days taken to 50 % flowering, duration of maturity, number of siliqua/plant, siliqua length, number of seeds/siliqua were recorded under eucalypts as well as from sole crop. From the representative sample of each plot, 1000 seeds were counted and weighted to record the test weight of seeds in grams. Crop was harvested at physiological maturity. After sun drying, crop was threshed and the seed and stover yield from each plot were weighed. Bundles of each plot were then weighed (kg) before threshing to record the biological yield and converted to t ha-1. The harvest index for each plot was calculated as under: \r\nHarvest Index (%) = [Seed yield/Biological yield] × 100\r\nThe B:C ratio of both systems (eucalypts-mustard and sole mustard) was also calculated.\r\nRESULTS AND DISCUSSION\r\nNumber of plants per meter row length: The number of plants per meter row length in mustard at 20 days after sowing (Table 1) showed significant variation between eucalypts based cropping system and control. The numbers of plants per meter row length were significantly higher (7.5) in control (devoid of tree) than under eucalypts plantation (5.4). The reduction in numbers of plants per meter row length at 20 DAS in mustard was 28.0 per cent under eucalypts plantation over control. The reduction in number of plants in mustard under eucalypts plantation may be due to availability of low light intensity. Availability of low solar radiation hinders the germination of crop which ultimately affects the plant population under eucalypts plantation (Kumar et al., 2013).\r\nPlant height (cm) at different time intervals: The effect of eucalypts plantation under study on plant height of mustard at various growth stages is represented in Fig. 2. The results showed that plant height increased with successive stages of crop growth, however, maximum rate of increase in height was recorded between 30 and 60 DAS in eucalypts based cropping system as well as control. The results clearly indicate that mustard showed significantly lesser plant height under eucalypts plantation in comparison to control (without tree) from 30 DAS up to harvesting. The maximum plant height (181.2 cm) was found at harvest which was statistically at par with 120 DAS (179.3 cm) under control (sole mustard). While the maximum reduction in plant height was recorded 31.16, 11.60, 15.67, 13.44 and 13.02 % at 30, 60, 90,120 DAS and at harvest, respectively under eucalypts based cropping system over control. Kumar and Nandal (2004) estimated the performance of mustard under Eucalyptus teriticornis and reported that mustard grown as inter crop in the interspaces of eucalypts showed reduced plant height as compared to control.\r\nFig. 2. Mustard plant height (cm) at 30 days interval under eucalypts plantation and in control (devoid of tree).\r\n \r\nFresh and dry matter accumulation (g m-2) at different time intervals of growth: The fresh and dry matter accumulation of mustard (Fig. 3) was affected significantly in eucalypts plantation than control (without tree). Fresh and dry matter accumulation increased substantially with the increase in mustard. However, maximum increase in fresh and dry matter accumulation was observed between 30 to 60 DAS of crop stage. Thereafter, it increased but at slow rate. Mustard intercropped with eucalypts accumulated lower fresh and dry matter at various stages of growth however; it attained maximum dry matter under control (sole mustard). Mustard grown in interspaces of eucalypts showed a maximum reduction in fresh and dry weight 8.09, 15.66, 13.02, 20. 72, 14.37% and 6.67, 12.94, 11.57, 19.35 and 12.22% at 30, 60, 90, 120 DAS and at harvest, respectively over control (devoid of tree). The lesser biomass accumulation in mustard under eucalypts based cropping system may be due to the accessibility of lesser solar radiation and higher competition between tree and crop for moisture and nutrients than in control (devoid of tree). In addition allelopathic effect of eucalypts is also responsible to reduce biomass accumulation in mustard (Deswal and Nandal, 2008; Prasad et al., 2011).\r\n \r\nPhenological characters: The data evidenced on phonological development (days to 50% flowering and days to maturity) in mustard under varying cropping system (eucalypts based agroforestry system and control) are presented in Table-3. Eucalypts based cropping system had significant effect on the number of days taken to 50% flowering and days to maturity in mustard. Mustard sown under eucalypts based agroforestry system took higher number days to 50% flowering (63.1) and maturity (146.2) ascompared to control (57.8 and 135.7), respectively. In eucalypts based cropping system, maturity of mustard was delayed by about 10 days over control (sole crop). The maximum number of days taken for spike emergence (50%) and maturity of mustard under eucalypts plantation were relatively more due to deprived photosynthetic ability of crop (Dhillon et al., 2016).\r\nSiliqua length (cm), number of siliqua/ plant, number of seed/ siliqua and test weight (g): The results in Table 4 showed that the maximum siliqua length (6.2 cm) of mustard was observed in control (sole crop) as compared to eucalypts based cropping system. Eucalypts plantation under study exhibited 11.29 per cent reduction in siliqua length of mustard over control. The number of siliqua/plant in mustard also exhibited similar trend as that of siliqua length under eucalypts as well as control. The results showed that the number of siliqua/plant under varying cropping system differed significantly (eucalypts based agroforestry system and control). Significantly higher numbers of siliqua/plant (275.3) were observed in control. Per cent reduction in number of siliqua/plant was 30.84 under eucalypts plantation over control (sole mustard). The number of seeds/siliqua differed significantly under both cropping system (eucalypts based agroforestry system as well as control). The results showed that mustard grown in interspaces of eucalypts plantation exhibited minimum number of seeds/siliqua (10.2) than control (16.3). Per cent reduction in number of seeds/siliqua was 37.42 in eucalypts over control. In control, mustard exhibited significantly higher test weight (5.6 g) than under eucalypts. The percent reduction in test weight of mustard was 19.64 under eucalypts based cropping system over control (devoid of tree). Kumar et al. (2013) reported that number of siliqua/plant in mustard were significantly higher when intercropped with eucalypts based agroforestry system. They found that the number of siliqua per plant was 371 in sole cropping and 84.2 were found under eucalypts based agroforestry system. Similar findings were also reported by Pervin et al. (2015) who reported the decrease in number of siliqua per plant in mustard near the tree line of Albizia lebbeck and it increased with the increasing distance from tree line. The results of present investigation are also in line with the studies of Shah (2013) in which the lesser number of siliqua in mustard near the tree line of eucalypts and Xylia dolabriformis. The reduction in number of siliqua per plant under eucalypts plantation may be ascribed to more competition for light, moisture and nutrients (Prasad et al., 2011). In control, mustard exhibited significantly higher test weight (5.6 g) than under eucalypts. The reduction in test weight of mustard was 19.64 per cent under eucalypts based cropping system over control. The reduction in seed test weight of mustard was in association with Xylia and Lohakt tree species also been earlier reported (Farhana et al.,2013; Kundu et al., 2014).\r\nGrain yield (t/ha), Straw yield (t/ha), Biological yield (t/ha) and Harvest index (%): The grain yield of mustard was observed maximum (1.7 t/ha) in control (sole mustard) than under eucalypts based cropping system (Table-5). The per cent decrease in grain yield of mustard under eucalypts plantation over control was 17.65. The straw yield of mustard was also affected under eucalypts and maximum straw yield (2.6 t/ha) was observed in control than under eucalypts based cropping system and the per cent reduction in straw yield of mustard was 15.38 under eucalypts over control. However, the rate of decrease in straw yield was comparatively lower than grain yield of mustard under eucalypts plantation. The biological yield of mustard under eucalypts based cropping system reduced up to 16.28% over control. The results showed that sole mustard (control) exhibited maximum harvest index (39.5%) than under eucalypts plantation. The per cent reduction in harvest index of mustard under eucalypts based agroforestry system was 1.77 over control. The lesser accessibility of solar radiation, soil moisture and nutrients may be responsible for reduction in yield of mustard under eucalypts plantation (Shah, 2013). \r\nEconomic analysis of the eucalypts based agroforestry system: The total cost of cultivation (Rs. ha-1) was found higher (Table-6) in mustard under eucalypts based system, i.e., eucalypts + mustard (Rs. 132390.7) as compared to sole mustard (Rs. 52213.9). The gross return was found higher in eucalypts based agroforestry systems (Rs. 224428.5), while the lower gross return was obtained with the sole cropping of mustard (Rs. 63538.2). The maximum net return (Rs. 92037.8) was observed with eucalypts + mustard cropping system. The higher B:C ratio (1.69) was obtained in eucalypts + mustard system over control (1.21). The present study clearly shows that the gross return and net return were found more in eucalypts + mustard based cropping system than sole traditional cropping of mustard. Banerjee and Dhara (2011) reported higher net return under agroforestry system as compared to sole cropping. Also, Kaushik et al. (2017); Dhillon et al. (2018) revealed higher gross return under tree based cropping system over sole crops. The loss in crop yield under trees can be compensated by the income returns from the tree component at the end of the rotation (Satyawali et al, 2018).\r\n','Stanley Kombra, K.S. Ahlawat, Chhavi Sirohi, V. Dalal, Sanjay Kumar, P. Poonia, Sneh Yadav and Mamta Khaiper (2022). Performance of Mustard as Intercrop in Eucalyptus tereticornis Based Cropping System in Semi-Arid Ecosystem of India. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 14(2): 143-148.'),(4811,'125','Staggered Sowing of Genotypes affect Growth Traits of Tuberose (Polianthes tuberosa L.)','Manpreet Kaur, Bijender Singh Beniwal , Antim and Ajay Verma*','27 Staggered Sowing of Genotypes Affect Growth Traits of Tuberose Polianthes tuberosa L. Ajay Verma.pdf','',1,'Six promising genotypes were evaluated for growth traits at three dates of sowings at CCS Haryana Agricultural University, Hisar during 2019 and 2020 cropping seasons. Highly significant variations due to genotypes, dates of sowing and years had been observed by analysis of variance. May sowing would be preferable as all genotypes took least days for sprouting. Maximum increase height seen for Suvasini followed by Prajwal while least increase for Pearal double in the combined analysis. Number of leaves per clump of tuberose was significantly affected by dates of sowing as more number of leaves per clump gained by all genotypes by switching from March to May. Large values of leaf length exhibited by Mexican single followed by Suvasini while least leaf length by Pearl Double in the combined analysis. Mexican single also expressed least change in lengths value in combined analysis of genotypes. The staggering planting enables a continuous supply of cut flowers to the markets over an extended period and avoid glut in the market to safeguard farmers from distressed sale of produce.','Polianthes tuberose, sprouting, leaves, length, width.','Staggered planting has been established as important strategy to ensure continuous supply of quality flowers to the market. The climatic factors like temperature, humidity and rainfall had been expressed vagaries over the different times of sowing of tuberose in the fields. The planned staggering planting over different dates enables a continuous supply of cut flowers over an extended period of harvest and at the same time aid to avoid glut in the market. This strategy would provide regular income to growers, employment to youth and increased availability of flowers to the users.','INTRODUCTION\r\nTuberose (Polianthes tuberosa L.), native of Mexico, is an important bulbous ornamental plant which is cultivated on the large area in India for loose flowers as well as cut flowers (Kumar et al., 2021). Mostly tuberose is used for cut flower owing long vase life along with attractive spikes, and as loose flower for making gajra, veni, bracelets, buttonhole, garlands (Khan et al., 2020). Flowers have been utilized to extract natural high valued oil as rich in benzyl alcohol, eugenol, benzyl benzoate and methyl anthranilate. Due to these compounds flower oil has medicinal and aromatic properties and purposefully used in perfumes, cosmetics, soaps and other products (Madhumathi et al., 2018). The scent of tuberose is able to relieve the stress; hence it urges the healing process using aromatherapy (Qureshi et al., 2018). The export trade of essential oils and perfumes has been increased over the decade. To ensure continuous supply of flowers, staggered planting time has been recognized as an important planting strategy (Ali et al., 2019). The climatic factors like temperature, humidity and rainfall has expressed vagaries over the time and these would be exploited for successful tuberose production (Dogra et al., 2020). The staggered planting dates ensure a continuous supply of cut flowers over an extended period of harvest and which can avoid glut in the market (Zamin et al., 2020). Staggered planting time provide continuous flower, regular income to growers, employment and increased flower duration (Meena et al., 2018). Not so much of research work had been undertaken on staggering sowing of tuberose. The present investigation was planned to study the effect of staggered sowing dates on growth traits of tuberose. \r\nMATERIALS AND METHODS\r\nGenotypes performance varied from one date of sowing to another due to varying climatic conditions of the country over the time period. Hisar station is situated in the subtropics at an altitude of 215.2 meter above mean sea level with North latitude 29º10 and East longitude 75º46. Experiment consisted of six promising genotypes sown at three dates of sowings at Experimental Farm of the Department of Horticulture, CCS Haryana Agricultural University, Hisar during 2019 and 2020 cropping seasons to study growth characters. Plant to plant spacing of 30 cm × 30cm was maintained in net plot size of 1.5m × 1.5m as trails was laid out with three replications with to accommodate twenty five plants per plot. The recommended agronomical practices were adopted to raise the crop. Five random plants were selected for recording growth traits viz., days to initial sprouting, days to complete sprouting, plant height (cm), number of leaves per plant, leaves length, leaves width. Reputed statistical software SAS version 9.3 along with JMP 9 was exploited for analysis and graphical presentations.\r\nRESULTS AND DISCUSSION \r\nHighly significant variations due to genotypes, dates of sowing and years of study had been observed by analysis of variance as tabulated in Table 1 (Jadhav et al., 2020). First order and second order interactions were also significant at 5% level of significance for most of the traits.\r\nA. Days to sprouting initiation \r\nTable 2 presented the differences among genotypes over the dates of sowing. Earliness in flowering is an important character, which helps farmers to fetch early market. All genotypes achieved maximum values for days for initial sprouting for March sown and Mexican single has expressed maximum days at March sowing as compared to May sowing in the first year of study (Ahmad et al., 2019). May sowing would be preferable as genotypes took least days for sprouting. Same behavior of genotypes vs-a-vis dates of sowing expressed during second year of study. Hyderabad double took least days in both years for sprouting initiation. However April end sowing would be beneficial for farmers cultivating Tubersome. Major effects Genotypes, dates of sowing and year accounted for 39.25%, 45.63%, 10.13% of total sum of squares respectively. Combined analysis of data sets also pointing towards Hyderabad double followed by Suvasini. \r\nB. Days to complete sprouting \r\nThe data concerning to days taken to complete sprouting in Table 3 show that different genotypes showed contrasting variation from March to May sowing during first year as maximum days required by Prajwal followed by Mexican single. Nearly eleven days advantage observed for May sowing as Pearal double (34 to 24), Hyderabad double (36 to 23), Mexican single (41 to 26), Prajwal (42 to 29), Suvasini (38 to 26) and Vaibhav (40 to 26 ) reduced to less days for sprouting. Similarly days taken to sprouting had reduced further during evaluation of genotypes during 2020. As Mexican single took 40 to 26 days for sprouting while Suvasini took only 34 to 19 days. Combined analysis had expressed least days for Hyderabad double followed by Pearal double. Maximum days required for Prajwal sprouting. Major effects Genotypes, dates of sowing and year accounted for 16.13%, 72.28%, 6.83% of total sum of squares respectively.\r\nPlant height of genotypes\r\nPlant growth which is considered to be a good index of plant vigor also contributes towards greater productivity. The data presented in Table 4 clearly indicate that plant height has shown as increasing trends for all genotypes with augmentation of dates of sowing (Bharathi et al., 2019). Larger plants were observed for May sowing as compared to March in first year as height increased from 40 to 45 days for Pearal double and 76 to 84 for Prajwal. Delaying sowing has increased the height in the second year also as 46 to 55 for Pearal double, 60 to 66 for Hyderabad double and maximum of five days for Mexican single and Suvasini both. Maximum height increased for Suvasini followed by Prajwal while least increase for Pearal double in combined analysis of data sets for both years of study. Major effects of genotypes, dates of sowing and years accounted for 89.65%, 3.24%, 5.83 % of total sum of squares respectively.\r\nD. Leaves per clump\r\nThe variation in number of leaves per plant amongst the varieties might be due to variation amount of stored food material in mother corms expressed by their sizes. It could also be due to variation in rate of vegetative growth among the genotypes that could be attributed to their genetic makeup and could have been further influenced by the agro-climatic conditions. Number of leaves per clump of tuberose was significantly affected by dates of sowing as more number of leaves per clump gained by all genotypes by switching from March to May in the first year (Naik et al., 2018). The maximum number of leaves per clump 52 was observed for Mexican single followed by 45 for Suvasini accompanied with least per clump 28 for Pearal double. Moreover increase of number of leaves per clump varied as 7, 6, 9, 8, 4, 5 exhibited by Pearal double, Hyderabad double, Mexican single, Prajwal, Suvasini and Vaibhav respectively. Similar trends of increase maintained by genotypes during second year of study also as May sowing expressed maximum number of leaves per clump for all genotypes. Increase from 39 to 46 by Hyderabad double and large increase from 45 to 74 by Suvasini genotype. The effects of genotypes, dates of sowing and years were substantial and accounted for 31.48%, 5.44%, 51.59% of total sum of squares respectively. Combined analysis had seen maximum number of leaves for Mexican single followed by Suvasini whereas least number of leaves for Hyderabad Double tuberose genotype. \r\nE. Leaf length of genotypes\r\nThe data regarding the leaves length of genotypes during 2019 and 2020 have been presented in Table 6. The leaves length increased significantly with advancing date of sowing as maximum length observed for Mexican single, followed by Suvasini and least increased maintained by Pearl double for the first year (Rosalind et al., 2018). Increased from 25 to 32, 29 to 34, 42 to 46, 30 to 37, 40 to 44 and 34 to 41 by respective genotypes as maximum increase accounted by Vaibhav. Consistent augmentation in leaf length observed for all genotypes in the second year as 30 to 35 expressed by Pearl double and maximum of 40 to 49 by Vaibhav. The effects of genotypes, dates of sowing and year had accounted for 72.74%, 11.33%, 13.04% of total sum of squares respectively. Large values of leaf length exhibited by Mexican single followed by Suvasini while least leaf length by Pearl Double in the combined analysis. Least change in lengths expressed by Mexican single genotypes in combined analysis of genotypes. \r\nF. Leaf width\r\nStudied genotypes also expressed increased Leaf width from March to May sowing for the first year even the least increase would help in better photosynthesis activities in turn aid to increase the yield. Marginal increase has observed for all genotypes irrespective of dates of sowing. May sowing would be more economical for tuberose cultivation. Similar behavior of genotypes had maintained in the second year also as maximum advantage showed by Vaibhav followed by Suvasini. Large values of leaf width expressed by Prajwal followed by Major effects Genotypes, dates of sowing and year accounted for 70.96%, 13.70%, 6.43% of total sum of squares respectively. Mexican single besides least values by Hyderabad Double for the combined three way of analysis as year was also considered as a factor apart from genotypes and dates of sowing.\r\n','Manpreet Kaur, Bijender Singh Beniwal, Antim and Ajay Verma (2022). Staggered Sowing of Genotypes Affect Growth Traits of Tuberose (Polianthes tuberosa L.). Biological Forum – An International Journal, 14(2): 149-154.'),(4812,'125','Influence of Seedling Age and Bio-fertilizers on Bulb Yield and Nutrient Uptake by Onion (Allium cepa L.)','Priyanka Gurjar*, Karan Vir Singh, Rajesh Lekhi and Narendra Singh Gurja','28 Influence of Seedling Age and Bio-fertilizerson Bulb Yield and Nutrient Uptake by Onion _Allium cepa L. Priyanka Gurjar.pdf','',1,'Field experimentation conducted during the Rabiseasons of 2019-20 and 2020-21 at R. V. S. K. V. V., Gwalior to examine the bulb yield and nutrient uptake in onion due to application of bio-fertilizer under different seedling age. There were fifteen treatment combinations comprised of 3 seedling age (6 weeks, 7 weeks and 8 weeks) in main plot and 5 bio-fertilizer (un-inoculated, Azotobecter, Azotobecter + PSB, Consortia (Azotobecter + PSB + KMB) and Arka Microbial Consortium(Azotobecter + PSB + ZSB) in subplot. The experiment was laid out under split-plot design and the treatments were triplicated during the experiment. Pooled data of two years revealed that the highest marketable bulb yield (331.7 q) was noted with 7th weeks old seedling age which was significantly higher to 6th and 8th weeks old seedling age. Bio-fertilizer applied treatments recorded significantly higher marketable bulb yield as compared to control. Maximum pooled marketable bulb yield (347.6 q) was recorded with Arka Microbial Consortium (Azotobecter + PSB + ZSB) which was significantly higher over rest of the treatments. \r\nThe results on nutrient uptake by bulbs indicated maximum of 74.66, 7.08, 35.62 & 9.02 kg ha-1 NPKS by application of S @ 45 kg ha-1 followed by 30 kg ha-1 as gypsum. Similar trend was also observed for total nutrient uptake. Thus, it may be concluded that application of S @ 30 or 45 kg ha-1 in the form of gypsum not only increases the bulb yield but also higher uptake of nutrients in onion.\r\n','Arka Microbial Consortium, Bio-fertilizer, marketable bulb yield, Seedling Age, Onion. ','From the results, it can be concluded that Inoculation by mixture of bio-fertilizers i.e. Arka Microbial Consortium (Azotobecter + PSB + ZSB) and Consortia (Azoto + PSB + KMB) in 7 weeks old seedling found to be effective for higher marketable bulb yield and uptake of nutrients by onion bulb and leaves. These treatments of seedling age and bio fertilizer also recorded fresh and dry weight of bulb. Therefore Inoculation by mixture of bio-fertilizers i.e. Arka Microbial Consortium (Azotobecter + PSB + ZSB) and Consortia (Azoto + PSB + KMB) in 7 weeks old seedling of Agri found Light Red had significant effect on bulb yield and uptake of nutrients by onion under the agro-climatic conditions of Gwalior district of Madhya Pradesh. ','Onion (Allium cepa L.) is one of the commercial vegetable and spice crops of India which is predominantly cultivated during Rabi (60%) followed by 20% each in Kharif and late Kharif season. Among the various cultural practices followed for the production of onion, planting time is one of the most important factors that greatly influence the growth and yield of onion. The variation in planting time affects the plant vigour and spread, which further affect the yield and quality. If planting time coincides with optimum ecological conditions for better germination, it may lead to better development of plants and ultimately higher yield of good quality. Age of seedling is an important factor that influences the higher bulb yield. Proper age of seedling can produce better yield of bulb (Singh and Chaure, 1999).\r\nBiofertilizers play a very significant role inatmospheric nitrogen fixation and phosphorus solubilization, these also help in stimulating the plant growth hormone providing better nutrient uptake and increased tolerance towards drought and moisture stress. A small dose of bio-fertilizers contains at least 10 million viable cells of specific strains (Rao et al., 2014).\r\nArka Microbial Consortium is a carrier based product which contains N-fixing, P & Zn solubilizing and plant growth promoting microbes as a single formulation. The novelty of this technology is that farmers need not apply N-fixing, phosphorous solubilizing and growth promoting bacterial inoculants individually. Phosphorus solubilizing bacteria and fungi play a vital role in persuading the insoluble phosphatic compound such as rock phosphate, bone meal and basic slag and particularly the chemically fixed soil phosphorus into available form (Pindi and Satyanarayana, 2012) Onion has a good response to biofertilizers due to root system morphology but the information on effect of inoculation of bio-fertilizers with different seedling age on uptake of nutrients in onion is rather limited so the novelty of this study is a comparison of different combinations of bio-fertilizers used in different seedling age on bulb yield and nutrient uptake by onion in rabi season.\r\nMATERIAL AND METHODS\r\nThe trials were conducted according to the split-plot design in three repetitions at the horticulture nursery, College of Agriculture, Gwalior, (2613N and 7614E) during Rabi seasons of 2019 -20 and 2020-21. The soil of present study was sandy clay loam in texture having0.53% organic carbon, 211.0 kg ha-1 available-N, 13.04 kg available P2O5 and 338.5 kg K2O ha-1 with pH 7.41.The experimental treatments involved the 3 seedling age (6 weeks, 7 weeks and 8 weeks) in main plot and 5 bio-fertilizer (un-inoculated, Azotobecter, Azotobecter+ PSB, Consortia (Azotobecter + PSB + KMB) and Arka Microbial Consortium (Azotobecter+ PSB + ZSB)) in subplot and all the plots were uniformly fertilized with as per recommended dose i.e. 100: 60: 80: 30 : N: P2O5 :K2O :S ) through Urea, Di-ammonium Phosphate, Muriate of Potash and bentonite sulphur, respectively. Onion variety \' Agrifound Light Red\' was sown on second week of September and six, seven and eight week’s old seedlings which having three to five leaves were transplanted as per treatments on pre- marked spacing of 15 x 10 cm in the afternoon during both the years. All bio fertilizers were used in liquid form and prior to transplanting of seedlings it was added as per treatments through root dipping methods. Onion crop was irrigated after planting and later as and when required. The crop was harvested at physiological maturity and the weight of onion bulb was recorded. The bulb and plant samples drawn at harvesting were dried in shade and chaffed into pieces and then kept in oven at 70°C for 12 hours to make free from moisture. After that, the dried samples were ground in a grinder. After mixing well the ground samples were collected for analysis of N, P, K and S. Nitrogen was estimated by Kjeldahl method. For P, K and S estimation bulb samples were digested in a diacid mixture (HNO3and HClO4) and P in the extract was determined by vanadomolybdate yellow colour method and K content was determined by flame photometer method (Jackson, 1973). The uptake of nutrients was calculated as per formula. \r\n \r\n \r\n \r\nRESULTS AND DISCUSSION \r\nA. Growth and yield attributes parameters \r\nIt is revealed from results that the growth parameters like plant height and number of leaves and yield attributes parameters i.e. Fresh and dry weight, Polar diameter and neck thickness of onion bulb were significantly influenced due to different seedling age (Table 1). Maximum value was recorded with optimum age of seedling (7 weeks) which was at par with 6 weeks old seedling age, whereas, minimum was recorded in 8 weeks old seedling age in all the parameters. The significantly higher growth parameters under transplanting of 7 weeks old seedlings may be owing to the fact that optimum age of seedlings performer active growth which might have contributed to more vigorous growth and development of plants and thus improvements in the pseudo stem. These results are in consonance with those of other workers (Kanton et al., 2002; Singh et al., 2017). The dry matter fraction for different age of seedlings varied possibly due to variation of growth patterns and photosynthesis at growing phases which may be ascribed that as the bulb size decreased quantity of water content also decreased resulting in high percentage of dry matter. The results of the present study are in agreement with Bhonde et al. (2001); Muhammad et al. (2016).\r\nInoculation of different bio-fertilizers recorded significantly higher growth and yield attributes parameters as compared to un-inoculated (control). Maximum value of growth parameters (i.e. plant height and number of leaves plant-1) was recorded with Arka Microbial Consortium (AMC) which was at par with Consortia (Azoto+ PSB + KMB) and both were significantly superior to rest of the bio fertilizer applied treatment, whereas, minimum was in Un-inoculated (control). This might be due to inoculation with bio fertilizers mixtures provided a more balance nutrition for plants as well as optimum absorption of nutrients by corms accelerated the physiological process and improved the vegetative phenomenon. Improvement in plant height and number and length of leaves with inoculation of bio fertilizers could be attributed to the proper availability of nitrogen fixed by Azotobacter as non-symbiotic in the rhizosphere of inoculated corms, while PSB acts as a potent phosphate solubilizer and thus facilitates enhanced phosphorus uptake in roots by which the plants maintain their vegetative growth. Better vigorous growth may also be result of increased meristematic activities and increase in number and size of cells due to effect of growth promoting substances produced by these bio-fertilizers. Similar findings were observed by Taren et al. (1994); Kumar et al. (2019) in onion. \r\nUnder different bio fertilizers, all the bio-fertilizer applied treatments recorded significantly higher yield-attributing parameter i.e. fresh and dry weight, polar diameter and neck thickness of bulb as compared to control. Maximum fresh (85.60 g) and dry weight (12.29 g) of bulb was recorded with Arka Microbial Consortium (AMC) which was significantly higher over rest of the treatments. It might be due to increased availability of nitrogen and better mobilization, solubilization of phosphate and zinc which leads to better uptake of N and P as well as also increased activity of Zn which is synthesize indole acetic acid and gibberellins or gibberellin like substances resulting in vigorous plant growth and dry matter production which improved the vegetative growth, dry matter accumulation and their partitioning towards the developing bulb. Similar results have also been reported by Bhonde et al. (2001); Aswani et al. (2005).\r\nB. Bulb yield\r\nThe perusal of mean data of two year indicates that highest marketable (331.7 q ha-1) and total bulb yield (334.0 q ha-1) was noted with 7th weeks old seedling age which was significantly higher to 6h and 8th weeks old seedling age. Minimum bulb yields were recorded with 8th weeks old seedling age (Table 1) this may be ascribed that the transplanting of optimum age 7th weeks old seedling appeared to have much more root and shoot developed over the younger and older seedlings and synthesized much more photosynthates which help to increase the vegetative growth of the plant which has improved assimilate availability for storage and led to an increased average bulb weight that gave an advantage to increase the marketable as well as total bulb yield. The similar results have also been obtained by Kanton et al. (2002); Latif et al. (2010); Singh et al. (2017).\r\nUnder different bio fertilizers, all the biofertilizer applied treatments recorded significantly higher bulb yield as compared to control. Maximum marketable bulb yield (347.6 q ha-1) and total bulb yield (349.9 q ha-1) were recorded in Arka Microbial Consortium (Azotobecter + PSB + ZSB) inoculated treatments which was significantly higher over rest of the other treatments. Whereas, minimum bulb yields was in Un-inoculated (control). Significant increase in marketable as well as total bulb yield with bio fertilizers inoculated treatment may be due to apart from fixing atmospheric nitrogen, produces plant growth promoting substances and creates metabolic changes in roots. This is turn decrease the activity of oxidative enzymes and increases the development of root hairs thus increasing \r\nthe endogenous IAA and minerals as well as water uptake. This resulted in increase of root development and overall vegetative growth thereby increasing the marketable bulb yield of onion. On the other side, Arka \r\nMicrobial Consortium (Azotobecter + PSB + ZSB) produce anti fungal antibiotic substances that inhibits various of soil fungi. It can also synthesize and secrete thiamin, riboflavin, cyanocobal amine, indole acetic acid and gibberellins like substances resulting in vigorous plant growth and dry matter production which in turn resulted in better fertilization, bulb development and ultimately the higher yield, Similar results have also been reported by Bhonde et al. (2001); Waghmode et al. (2010); Kumar et al. (2019).\r\nC. Nutrient uptake by onion\r\nNutrient (N, P & K) uptake by onion bulb and leaves significantly differ in various seedling age treatment and maximum total N (80.41 kg ha-1), P (16.92 kg ha-1) and K (91.09 kg ha-1) were observed with 7 weeks old seedling age which was significantly higher as compared to total N-uptake by 6 and 8 weeks old seedling. This increase in uptake may be ascribed to greater dry matter production with this age of seedling which may be ascribed that 7 weeks old over 6 and 8 weeks old seedlings has ability to absorb root injury shocks and owing to quick establishment in soil and thus more uptake of nutrients. Similar findings were also reported by (Upadhyay et al., 2001). \r\nUnder different bio fertilizers inoculated treatments, all the inoculated treatments recorded significantly higher N, P & K uptake as compared to un-inoculated. Maximum total N (87.70 kg ha-1) uptake was observed in Arka Microbial Consortium (Azotobecter + PSB + ZSB) inoculated treatments which was significantly higher over rest of the other treatments. Maximum total P (87.70 kg ha-1) uptake was observed in Consortia (Azoto+ PSB + KMB) closely followed by Arka Microbial Consortium (Azotobecter + PSB + ZSB) and both were significantly superior over rest of other inoculated treatments. Maximum total K (96.71 kg ha-1¸) uptake was observed in Arka Microbial Consortium (Azotobecter + PSB + ZSB) closely followed by Consortia (Azoto+ PSB + KMB) with 95.20 kg ha-1 K- uptake and both were recorded significantly higher total K uptake as compared to rest of other inoculated treatments. It is clear from result (Table 2) that the inoculation by mixture of two or more bio-fertilizer treatments recorded significantly higher N, P & K uptake as compared to single bio-fertilizer inoculation treatments. Inoculation by mixture of Biofertilizers i.e. Arka Microbial Consortium (Azotobecter + PSB + ZSB) and Consortia (Azoto + PSB + KMB) play a very significant role in atmospheric nitrogen fixation and phosphorus, potassium/zinc solubilization, these also help in stimulating the plant growth hormone providing better nutrient uptake (Rao et al., 2014).\r\n \r\nInteraction effect of seedling age and bio fertilizers on nutrient uptake. It is clear from Table 3, that the seedling age of 7th week resulted significantly maximum total N uptake with Arka Microbial Consortium (Azotobecter + PSB + ZSB) followed by Consortia (Azoto + PSB + KMB) while in the case of P & K it is higher with Consortia (Azoto + PSB + KMB) followed by Arka Microbial Consortium (Azotobecter + PSB + ZSB) and both were comparable with other. \r\nThe higher uptake may be due to more bulb yield and dry matter found in this treatment combination and absorption and utilization of nutrients in mixture of bio-fertilizer which may be ascribed that available nitrogen and phosphorus content may be due to increased biological nitrogen fixation and phosphate and potassium solubilization by micro-organisms. Similar results have also been reported by Bhonde et al. (2001); Waghmode et al. (2010); Kumar et al. (2019).\r\n','Priyanka Gurjar, Karan Vir Singh, Rajesh Lekhi and Narendra Singh Gurja (2022). Influence of Seedling Age and Bio-fertilizerson Bulb Yield and Nutrient Uptake by Onion (Allium cepa L.). Biological Forum – An International Journal, 14(2): 155-160.'),(4813,'125','Influence of Incorporation of Shredded Cotton Stalks and Fertility Levels on Yield of Succeeding Sweet Corn','K. Bhargavi Reddy*, M. Malla Reddy, B. Padmaja and T. Srijaya','29 Influence of Incorporation of Shredded Cotton Stalks and Fertility Levels on Yield of Succeeding Sweet Corn K. Bhargavi Reddy.pdf','',1,'A field experiment on effect of incorporation of cotton stalk on soil fertility status and yield of succeeding sweet corn was conducted at Professor Jayashankar Telangana State Agriculture University, Rajendranagar, Hyderabad during rabi 2020-21. The experiment was laid out in randomized complete block design with factorial concept and replicated thrice. The treatments comprise of two levels of residue management viz., Shredded cotton stalks incorporation and no incorporation and five levels of fertility levels viz control, 75% RDF, 100% RDF, 125% RDF and 150% RDF. There is no significant impact of residue incorporation on yield attributes and yield over the residue removal. The application of 150% RDF (300:90:75 kg NPK ha-1) resulted in significant increase in number of yield attributes and yield and was at par with 125% RDF (250:75:62.5 kg NPK ha-1). It would be therefore, advisable to application of 125% RDF (250:75:62.5 kg NPK ha-1) to sweet corn. Long term studies on incorporation of cotton stalks and nutrient supply in cropping system need to be evaluated to recommend farmers. ','Cob Yield, Cotton residues, Fodder yield, RDF % and Sweet Corn.','Cotton incorporated plots did not shown negative influence on yields even though, cotton stalks have high CN ratios, incorporation of cotton stalks results in temporarily immobilization, reducing its productivity. Proper fertilizer management practices can reduce N immobilization. Application of N fertilizer at a higher rate than the recommended rate, as starter dose with residue incorporation increases yields. Among the fertility levels 150% RDF recorded higher yield and on par with 125% RDF. It would be therefore, advisable to application of 125% RDF to sweet corn.','Maize (Zea mays) is one of the major cereal crops with wide adaptability to diverse agro- climatic conditions. Globally, during period, 2018-19 about 1147.6 MT of maize is being produced by over 170 countries from the area of 193.7 Mha with average productivity of 5.92 t ha-1 (FAOSTAT, 2020). In India, during 2018-19, it was cultivated over an area of 9.18 Mha with an annual production of 27.23 Mt and average productivity of 2965 kg ha-1 (Agricultural Statistics at Glance, 2019). While in Telangana State, it was grown in 5.6 lakh ha with total production of 20.3 lakh tons and productivity of 3658 kg ha-1 (Agricultural Statistics at Glance, 2019). Sweet corn has a very short period of optimum harvest maturity, it can be harvested within 80 to 90 days after sowing. Cotton is an important fiber crop of India. In India, it covered an area of 12.58 M ha producing 37.0 M bales with an average kapas productivity of 500 kg ha-1 during the year 2017-18 (Agriculture at a Glance, 2017-18). Cotton residues are natural resources with tremendous value to farmers and their use can be diversified as animal feed, composting, thatching for rural homes and fuel for domestic and industrial use. The cotton stalk are rich in nutrients having 51.0, 4.9, 1.0, 0.61, 0.08, 0.43 and 0.12 per cent C, H, N, K, P, Ca and Mg (Anil Kumar Dubey et al., 2004). Farmers are adopting irrigated dry (ID) crops such as Sweet corn, Sesame, Vegetables, Water melon and Green gram after removal of kharif sown cotton depending upon water availability and soil type. Most of the farmers are burning the cotton stalks for easy land preparation and sowing of ID crops. Proper incorporation of cotton stalks into soils enable the farmers to reduce quantity of fertilizers application to succeeding crops. Optimum fertilization is considered to be one of the most important pre-requisite. Sweet corn requires major quantity of soil supplements, and it does great with collective types of fertilizer put on at independent rhythm round the extend prime.\r\nMATERIALS AND METHOD\r\nField experiment was conducted at College farm, Professor Jayashankar Telangana State Agriculture University, Rajendranagar, Hyderabad, Telangana state during rabi, 2020-2021. The experiment was laid out in randomized complete block design with factorial concept and replicated thrice. The soil of experimental site was sandy clay loam in texture and slightly alkaline in reaction (7.78 pH), low in organic carbon (0.34 %) and low in available nitrogen (201 kg/ha), very low in available P2O5 (28 kg/ha) and high in available K2O (370 kg/ha) with electrical conductivity of 0.368 dS/m. Treatments included were RM1 - cotton stalks incorporated; RM2 - Without residue; F1- Control (no fertilizer); F2- 75% RDF (150:45:37.5 NPK kg ha-1); F3- 100% RDF (200:60:50 NPK kg ha-1); F4- 125% RDF (250:75:62.5 NPK kg ha-1); F5- 150% RDF (300:90:75 NPK kg ha-1). The cotton stalks which are collected from preceding crop are shredded (made into small pieces) with cotton shredder. The cotton stalks are incorporated @ 14.5 kg per treatment. The seeds (sugar 75) were dibbled @ 1 seed hill-1 at a depth of 4-5 cm in conventionally tilled soil. The gross and net plot sizes were 9.6 × 3.0 m2 and 8.4 × 2.6 m2 respectively. The nitrogen fertilizer @ 150, 200, 250, 300 N kg ha-1 in form of urea; phosphorus fertilizer @ 45, 60, 75, 90 P2O5 kg ha-1 in form of SSP and 37.5, 50, 62.5, 75 K2O kg ha-1 in form of muriate of potash were calculated and weighed as treatments. Entire phosphorus and potash were applied as basal. Nitrogen was applied as per schedule i.e., 1/3rd N at 20 DAS, 1/3rd N at 40 DAS and remaining 1/3rd N at 60 DAS.\r\nRESULTS AND DISCUSSION\r\nYield attributes. The number of cobs plant-1 was not significantly influenced by residue management and their interaction as well. Among fertility levels, higher no. of cobs plant-1 was recorded with 150% RDF which was at par with all other treatments except no fertilizer. The lowest no of cobs plant-1 was observed with control treatment. This may be due to maximum photosynthetic activity and carbohydrates use within plant that stimulated root growth and development as well as the uptake of other nutrients by Abbas et al. (2005); Bakht et al. (2007). \r\nThe cotton stalks incorporated plots proved to be non-significant in recording values of cob length and cob girth compared to residue removal plots. Application of 150% RDF (300:90:75 NPK kg ha-1) registered highest cob length and cob girth compared to no fertilizer but was at par with 125% RDF and 100% RDF treatments. Similarly, a positive correlation between the level of nitrogen and length of cob was reported by Pokhrel et al. (2009); Ahmad et al. (2018). The probable reason for longer cob length at a higher level of N could be due to optimum utilization of solar light, higher assimilated production and its conversion to starches resulted in higher cob length. Increased photosynthates translocation to the sink leading to enhanced growth parameters might have resulted in the formation of healthy and longer cobs by Woldesenbet et al. (2016); Adhikari et al. (2021). There was no interaction effect of residue management and fertility levels on cob length. A similar result was obtained by Majid et al. (2017); Saleem et al. (2017). The increment of cob diameter could be due to sufficient availability of Nitrogen which is responsible for cell division and cell elongation (Shrestha et al., 2018). There was no interaction effect of residue management and fertility levels with respect to cob girth. \r\nNumber of kernel rows cob-1 of sweet corn was not influenced by either the residue management or fertility levels and their interaction. In contrast to our findings results obtained by Majid et al. (2017) who found the increase in kernel row cob-1 with the increase in N level.\r\nNumber of kernels rows-1 of sweet corn did not differ significantly with residue management. 150% RDF registered highest number of kernels row-1 compared to no fertilizer but was at par with 125% RDF and 100% RDF which corresponds with the cob length. This result agreed with those reported by Sharifi and Namvar (2016), who recorded the maximum number of kernels row-1 by the application of 250 kg N ha-1 than lower doses. An increase in the number of kernels row-1 at higher NPK levels might be due to the lower competition for nutrients that allowing the plants to accumulate more biomass with a higher capacity to convert more photosynthesis into sink resulting in more kernels row-1 by Wasim et al. (2017). There was no interaction effect of residue management and fertility levels on number of kernels row-1.\r\nResidue management practices did not differed significantly in cob weight with and without husk. The increase in the NPK levels from 0% to 150% RDF significantly influenced the cob weight with husk. Application of 150% RDF recorded significantly heavier cobs over 75% RDF and no fertilizer application. While it was on par with 125% RDF. Greater availability of photosynthates, metabolites and nutrients to develop reproductive structures seems to have resulted in increased cob weight with these fertility levels by Khazaei et al. (2010). Optimum utilization of solar light, higher assimilates production and its conversion to starches resulted in higher kernel number and higher cob weight. Nitrogen being a major constituent of chlorophyll, amino acids and proteins. Phosphorus being the component of energy compounds, viz., ATP, NADP and Potassium serving as an activator or cofactor for various enzymes involved in photosynthesis and CO2 fixation could have promoted meristematic activities and physiological activities such as leaf expansion, root development and plant dry matter accumulation. These culminate in efficient water, nutrient absorption and translocation to various sinks, resulting in the development of higher sink components such as cob length, cob girth, number of kernels cob-1, cob weight with and without husk by Achenef and Patil (2020).\r\nTest weight was not significantly influenced by residue management and fertility levels. Gursoy et al. (2010) also found that chopping and retaining the cotton stalks resulted in lower test weight than the collecting and removal of cotton stalks. \r\nSimilar to the growth parameters, yield attributes of sweet corn were also not influenced by residue addition. A review by Chalk et al. (2013) showed that the 15N recovery from crop residues ranged from 12.4 to 19.1% in the first season. Ding et al. (2019) also found that 16.9% of 15N-labeled maize residue was absorbed by succeeding wheat whereas 35.9% of 15N-labeled urea was absorbed which was attributed to relatively longer release process in the first season. Recovery of crop residues is heavily dependent on the residue quality, which is deemed to a primary controller of the decomposition rate (Zhang et al., 2008).\r\nYield. Incorporation of cotton stalks did not significantly influenced the number of cobs ha-1 over the residue removal. Number of cobs ha-1 were found to be increased with increased fertility levels from 0% RDF to 150% RDF. The maximum number of cobs ha-1 were produced with the application of 150% RDF, which was on par with 125% RDF. Whereas lower number of cobs ha-1 were obtained with no fertilizer application. Higher amounts of ‘N\', ‘P\' and ‘K\' have a positive impact on physiological processes, plant metabolism, and growth, resulting in more cobs. However, there was no significant interaction effect between residue management and different fertility levels for number of cobs plant-1 in sweet corn. There was no significant effect of cotton stalks incorporation in green cob yield and fodder yield over residue removal. Gursoy et al. (2010) results of three years field experiment indicated that chopping and retaining the cotton stalks had no significant effect on grain yield of succeeding wheat. Davari et al. (2012) also reported that rice yields were unaffected by the residue incorporation in first year of study. Sprunger et al. (2019) compared the maize yields in a long-term residue management (10+ years) in Kenya and found that the residue with low C:N ratio (legumes) significantly enhanced the maize yields compared to maize stover with wider C:N ratio. The mineralizable carbon was enhanced by 57% in legume residue applied plots than that of maize stover. Hence, the authors opined that the mineralizable and processed pools of carbon are related to agronomic performance. In the present study, cotton stalks (shredded) with wider C:N ratio (50.5:1) were used. The succeeding sweet corn crop was harvested at 98th DAS. At 45 DAS and harvest, the C:N ratio of the cotton was 37.1:1 and 31.5:1, respectively when appended with 150% NPK. It was apparent that the ratio was getting narrowed down with advancement of time but by the end of crop season, it was still wider (31.5:1). The corresponding C:N ratio of the soil were 12.1, 11.9 and 11.6 at initial, 45 DAS and harvest, respectively. \r\nIt can also be observed that there was a positive balance of NH4+ -N and NO3- -N pools in cotton stalks applied plots at the end of the crop season indicating the N-mineralization, but it might have not been in the magnitude to effect yield enhancement. It was also reflected in nutrient uptake of the crop. Hence, it can be inferred from the above discussion that the yield advantage due to incorporation of residues with wide C:N ratio may be realized on long-term application by Seyed et al. (2014), Almaz et al. (2017); Ding et al. (2019). \r\nThe green cob yield and fodder yield was found to be increased with increased fertility levels from 0% RDF to 150% RDF. The maximum green cob yield was produced with the application of 150% RDF, which was on par with 125% RDF. Whereas lower green cob yield was obtained with no fertilizer application. The nutrients augment the supply of carbohydrates to kernels, boosting growth parameters and yield components like cob length, cob girth and number of kernels cob-1 can have a direct impact on the production of green cob by Shrestha et al. (2018); Sharanabasappa and Basavanneppa (2019). However, there was no significant interaction effect between residue management and fertility levels for green cob yield in sweet corn.\r\nHarvest index was not significantly influenced by residue management and fertility levels. In contrast to our results, Sharifi and Namvar (2016) found the maximum harvest index with the application of 225 kg N ha-1. Similarly, Wajid et al. (2007) also found the increase in harvest index with increasing fertilizer dose of NPK levels. There was no interaction effect between residue management and fertility levels for harvest index in sweet corn.\r\n','K. Bhargavi Reddy, M. Malla Reddy, B. Padmaja and T. Srijaya (2022). Influence of Incorporation of Shredded Cotton Stalks and Fertility Levels on Yield of Succeeding Sweet Corn. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 14(2): 161-165.'),(4814,'125','Effect of Phosphorus and Sulphur Fertilization on Growth and Yield of Fenugreek (Trigonella foenum-graecum L.)','Nitesh Baldaneeya*, J.M. Modhvadia, P.M. Parmar and V.N. Raiyani','30 Effect of Phosphorus and Sulphur Fertilization on Growth and Yield of Fenugreek Trigonella foenum-graecum L. Nitesh Baldaneeya.pdf','',1,'Fenugreek is an annual spices herb of the sub-family Papilionaceae of Leguminaceae family. Fenugreek is herbaceous annual whose seeds contain proteins and a range of vitamins. Its seeds also contain different amounts of nutrients, most important like iron, calcium, phosphorus, potassium and other mineral elements. The research on phosphorus and sulphur in fenugreek was need of the hour in Saurashtra region of Gujarat. To decide as well as to evaluate the potential productivity of fenugreek in Gujarat state through phosphorus and sulphur fertilization. Keeping all these points in view, a field experiment was conducted at Instructional Farm, Department of Agronomy, College of Agriculture, Junagadh Agricultural University, Junagadh during rabi 2016-17 to study the effect of phosphorus and sulphur fertilization on growth, yield and quality of fenugreek (Trigonella foenum-graecum L.). The experiment was laid out in a factorial randomized block design with three replications. Treament combinations includethree levels of phosphorus (0, 20 and 40 kg P2O5 ha-1) and three levels of sulphur (0, 20 and 40 kg S ha-1). Among the different levels of phosphorus, application of 40 kg P2O5 ha-1 (P2) registered significantly higher growth parameters, yield attributes and yield. In case of different levels of sulphur, Application of 40 kg S ha-1 (S2) resulted in significantly higher growth parameters, yield attributes and yield but yield attributes were statistically at par with treatment S1 (20 kg S ha-1). The interaction effect of levels of phosphorus and sulphur was found non-significant in all the parameters recorded during an investigation.','Fenugreek, Phosphorus, Sulphur, Growth, Yield.','Based on the one year field experiment results obtained from present experiment, it can be stated that good growth and higher seed yield from fenugreek crop (cv. Gujarat Methi-2) can be obtained by the application of 40 kg P2O5 ha-1 with RDN (20 kg N ha-1) and also 40 kg S ha-1 with RDN (20 kg N ha-1) in the medium black calcareous soil of South Saurashtra Agro-climatic Zone of Gujarat.','Fenugreek (Trigonella foenum-graecum L.) is an annual spices herb of the subfamily Papilionaceae of Leguminaceae family. Fenugreek is commonly known as methi. It is a multipurpose crop being utilized as leafy vegetable, spices, condiments, green fodder and also used sometimes as green manure crop (Khiriya and Singh, 2003). The genus ‘Trigonella’ comes from Latin, meaning ‘little tringle’ in reference to the triangle shape of the flower (Rosenngarten, 1969). Since antioxidant properties have been linked to health benefits of natural products, such properties were studied in germinated fenugreek seeds which are considered to be more beneficial than dried seeds (Dixit et al., 2005). Methi seeds and leaves are important particularly against the digestive disorders (Sheoran et al. 1999). Fenugreek (Trigonella foenum - graecum L.) is herbaceous annual whose seeds contain proteins (25-36% of the dry weight of the plant) and a range of vitamins (Mehrafarin et al., 2011). Its seeds also contain different amounts of nutrients, most important like iron, calcium, phosphorus, potassium and other mineral elements (Ali et al., 2012). The spices name “foenum-graecum” means “Greek hay” indicating its use as a forage crop in the past. Fenugreek is widely cultivated in warm temperate and tropical regions of the Mediterranean, Europe and Asia. Fenugreek is cultivated worldwide under semi-arid agro-climatic conditions having potential to fix atmospheric nitrogen and tolerant to mild salinity (Habib et al., 1971). India is the largest producer of fenugreek, where it is the third largest spice after coriander and cumin. In India major fenugreek growing states are Rajasthan, Gujarat, Tamil Nadu, Utter Pradesh, Himachal Pradesh, Madhya Pradesh and Andhra Pradesh. Gujarat is third largest producer of fenugreek in India followed by Madhya Pradesh and Rajasthan. For higher yield and also for quality of seed, optimum supply of nutrients is very important. Altering the soil nutrients and fertility status by providing balanced and adequate dose of major nutrients like nitrogen phosphorus as per the crop requirement is one of the easiest ways to boost the productivity of fenugreek. The general role of phosphorus in plant metabolism is known to enhance the symbiotic nitrogen fixation, improve grain quality, imparts hardiness to shoot, regulate the photosynthesis, helps root enlargement and governs physic-bio-chemical processes. It participates in metabolic activities as a constituent of nucleoprotein and nucleotides and also plays a key role in the formation of energy rich bond phosphates like Adenosine diphosphate and Adenosine triphosphate (Tisdale et al., 1995). Sulphur plays an important role in enhancing the productivity and quality of legumes by providing a proper nutritional environment in the soil (Lal et al., 2015). Sulphur being the constituent of some amino acids promotes the biosynthesis of protein. The application of sulphur is a key component of modern pulse production technology. The importance of sulphur in balance plant nutrition is realized with increasing sulphur deficiency in several areas due to intensive agriculture, less addition of organic manures and extensive use of sulphur free fertilizers. The judicious use of phosphorus and sulphur fertilizer in cropland results in increased growth, yield, nutritive quality and soil fertility. Especially its nutritive requirements for fenugreek in medium black calcareous soil of Saurashtra region in rabi season is low to medium. At present area of fenugreek increase in the Saurashtra region. \r\nMATERIALS AND METHODS\r\nA field experiment was conducted at Instructional Farm, Department of Agronomy, College of Agriculture, Junagadh Agricultural University, Junagadh during rabi 2016-17 to study the effect of phosphorus and sulphur fertilization on growth, yield and quality of fenugreek (Trigonella foenum-graecum L.). The experiment was laid out in factorial randomized block design with three replications. Treatment combinations include three levels of phosphorus (0, 20 and 40 kg P2O5 ha-1) and three levels of sulphur (0, 20 and 40 kg S ha-1). The soil of the experimental plot was clayey in texture and slightly alkaline in reaction with pH 7.9 and EC 0.38 dS m-1 and organic carbon 0.62 %. The soil was low in available nitrogen (241 kg ha-1) and available phosphorus (31.60 kg -1 ha), while medium in available potash (245.36 kg ha-1) and low in available sulphur (11 ppm). The seed of variety Gujarat Methi-2 was sown keeping seed rate of 25 kg/ha. Seeds of fenugreek were sown at row to row spacing of 30 cm. The crop was uniformly fertilized with 20 kg N ha-1 nitrogen in the form of urea and full dose of phosphorus in the form of di-ammonium phosphate applied as a basal application as per treatment and sulphur in the form of cosavet (90% S) as per treatment just before sowing. Weeds are controlled by manual hand weeding and interculturing as per need of the crop. The observation recorded for growth parameter, yield and other characters were put to statistical analysis in accordance with the analysis of variance techniques as suggested by Fisher (1950) for randomized block design (Factorial).\r\nRESULTS AND DISCUSSION \r\nA. Effect of Phosphorus Levels\r\nGrowth Parameters. Growth of plant can be measured vertically in terms of plant height and horizontally in terms of number of branches (primary and secondary). The data pertaining to plant height as affected by different levels of phosphorus on different dates of observation are depicted in Table 1. Among the different levels of phosphorus, application of 40 kg P2O5 ha-1 (P2) registered significantly higher plant height 14.78cm, 42.07 cm and 62.67 cm at 30 DAS, 60 DAS and at harvest, respectively. While significantly the lowest plant height was recorded under control (0 kg P2O5 ha-1). Application of phosphorus @ 40 kg ha-1 (P2) was recorded significantly higher primary (7.52) and secondary branches (11.60) per plant at harvest and it was statistically at par with 20 kg P2O5 ha-1 (P1) with the value of 6.86 and 10.90, respectively. The data pertaining today to 50% floweringshowed that the different levels of phosphorus did not exerted their significant effect.Increased endogenous level of P in plant by virtue of its increased availability in the soil medium and there after efficient absorption and translocation in various growth by way of active cell division and elongation resulting in greater plant height, number of primary and secondary branches. \r\nThe improvement in morphological parameters under the influence of phosphorus application might have resulted in larger canopy development and presumably higher chlorophyll content of leaves as nutrient actively participate in its formation. Similar trend in results was also found by Jat (2004); Meena et al. (2012); Mehta et al. (2012); Kumar et al. (2015) in coriander, Ali et al. (2016); Godara et al. (2018); Nair et al. (2021).\r\nYield and yield attributes. The effect of different levels of phosphorus on the yield attributes and yield is mentioned in Table 2. Various yield attributing characters like as number of pods per plant, number of seeds per pod, length of pod (cm) and test weight (g) were influenced by the application of the different levels of phosphorus. Significantly higher number of pods per plant, number of seeds per pod, length of pods and test weight were recorded under application of 40 kg P2O5 ha-1and found statistically at par with application of 20 kg P2O5 ha-1in case of test weight.\r\nSeed and stover yield were significantly influenced by different levels of phosphorus. Application of 40 kg P2O5 ha-1 recorded significantly higher seed and stover yields. Because of the outside supply of phosphorus to the soil deficient in phosphorus might have accelerated various physiological processes in plants favoring increased seed and stover yields of crop. The increase in seed yield due to phosphorus application might be attributed to a better source and sink relationship in terms of greater translocation of food material to yield attributing parts. It appears that greater translocation of photosynthates from source to sink (seed) might have increased the seed yield. \r\n \r\n\r\nSharma et al. (2014); Srivastava et al. (2014); Abha and Sharma (2016) in fennel and Mishra et al. (2016) in coriander Godara et al. (2018); Nair et al. (2021).\r\nB. Effect of Sulphur\r\nGrowth Parameters. In case of different level of sulphur, Application of 40 kg S ha-1 (S2) resulted in significantly higher plant height at 30, 60 DAS and harvest 13.75, 38.69, 59.17 cm, respectively but it was statistically at par with S1 (20 kg S ha-1). Application of 40 kg S ha-1 (S2) produced significantly higher number of primary (7.18) and secondary branches (11.29) per plant. Sulphur levels proved significant in improving growth parameters. Sulphur application promoted chlorophyll synthesis which, in turn, increases dry matter production. Sulphur increased meristematic tissue activity resulting in the taller plant at higher sulphur levels. Leaf formation depends on tissue differentiation and expansion. Sulphur is a constituent of three essential amino acids viz., cystine, cysteine and methionine. It resembles N in its capacity to enhance cell division, cell elongation and tissue differentiation. Thus, sulphur fertilization has improved all the growth parameters. Similar results were also reported by Tuncturk et al. (2011); Lal et al. (2014); Verma et al. (2014); Meena et al. (2015); Boori et al. (2017); Solanki et al. (2017); Suthar and Kukreja (2021).\r\nYield and yield attributes. The number of pods per plant, number of seeds per pod, length of pod, seed yield, stover yield and test weight are shown in Table 2. Most of the yield attributing characters were found significant under application of 40 kg S ha-1 (S2) and it is statistically at par with 20 kg S ha-1 (S1). Because sulphur has increased availability of the other nutrients like nitrogen, phosphorus etc. higher sulphur dose was responsible for increased leaf area and chlorophyll content of leaves causing higher photosynthesis and assimilation, metabolic activities which were responsible for overall improvement in yield attributes and finally seed yield of fenugreek. The increase in seed yield might be attributed to increase in number of pods per plant, number of seeds per pod, length of pod and test weight of seeds. Sulphur is mainly responsible for enhancing the reproductive growth and the proportion of reproductive tissues. The total dry matter (seed + stover) yield followed similar trends as in case of seed and stover yields. The increase in yield due to application of sulphur might be due to better metabolism and increased efficiency of the other nutrients. Manohar et al. (2014) reported that significant response of 40 kg S ha-1 in seed and stover yields of fenugreek. This may be attributed to the increasing levels of S which resulted in greater accumulation of carbohydrates, protein and their translocation to the productive organs, which in turn improved all the growth and yield attributing characters resulted in more seed yield. The results are in conformity with the finding of Bochalia et al. (2011); Ruveyde and Murat (2011); Patel et al. (2013); Ramkishor et al. (2015; Meena et al. (2017); Suthar and Kukreja (2021).\r\nC. Interaction Effect\r\nData from present investigation revealed that the interaction effect of levels of phosphorus and sulphur was found non-significant with respect to all the parameters under the study.\r\n \r\n','Nitesh Baldaneeya, J.M. Modhvadia, P.M. Parmar and V.N. Raiyani (2022). Effect of Phosphorus and Sulphur Fertilization on Growth and Yield of Fenugreek (Trigonella foenum-graecum L.). Biological Forum – An International Journal, 14(2): 166-170.'),(4815,'125','Effect of Varieties and Nutrient Levels on Growth, Yield and Economics of Cabbage (Brassica oleracea var.capitata L.)','Pooja Mishra, Rohatash Singh Bhadauria, Sourav Gupta* and R.K. Sharma','31 Effect of Varieties and Nutrient Levels on Growth, Yield and Economics of Cabbage Brassica oleracea var.capitata L. Sourav Gupta.pdf','',1,'High yield of cabbage is related to judicious application of fertilizer, proper cultural management etc. Cabbage is well known to be an exhaustive crop and has the capacity to absorb higher amount of nutrient from soil. The supply of proper nutrient must be ensured during its cultivation, which is related to the judicious application of fertilizer. A field experiment was conducted at the Vegetable Research Field, College of Horticulture, Mandsaur, Madhya Pradesh during the rabi season of 2016-17 under the edaphic and climatic conditions of Mandsaur. The experiment consisted two varieties (V1-Golden Acre and V2-Pusa Drumhead) and six nutrient levels (N1-75:50:60 kg NPK/ha, V2-75:75:60 kg NPK/ha, V3-100:50:60 kg NPK/ha, V4-100:75:60 kg NPK/ha, V5-125: 50:60 kg NPK/ha and V6-125:75:60 kg NPK/ha) laid out in factorial randomized block design with three replications. Significantly superior values of growth parameters, yield attributes & yield and economics were observed in cabbage variety Pusa Drumhead compared to Golden Acre. Under nutrient levels; significantly superior values of above parameters were recorded due to application of nutrient level N6 (NPK-125:75:60 kg/ha) followed by N5, N4, N3 and N2 and least in N1 (NPK-75:50:60 kg/ha). Combination of treatments; highest values of gross income (Rs.325181.93/ha) and B:C ratio (5.18) was recorded in case of Pusa Drumhead x NPK-125:75:60 kg/ha, while lowest values (Rs.134443.10/ha and 1.65) was found under Golden Acre x NPK-75:50:60 kg/ha.','Cabbage, Economics, Growth, Nutrient levels, Quality, Varieties and Yield.','Under Mandsaur conditions; the performance of Pusa Drumhead is better than Golden Acre cv. of cabbage with respect to plant growth, yield, quality and profitability. Hence cultivation of Pusa Drumhead cultivar of cabbage should be performed better over Golden Acre. The cabbage should be supplemented with 125 kg/ha nitrogen, 75 kg/ha phosphorus and 60 kg/ha potassium for optimum growth, yield, quality and profitability.','Cabbage (Brassica oleracea var. capitata L.) is a member of family crucifereae. It is one of the prominent leafy vegetable crops used for salad and cooking. Cabbage is more nutritious than cauliflower and knol-khol; which contains vitamin-A (2000 IU), thiamine (0.06 mg), riboflavin (0.03 mg) and vitamin-C (124 mg) per 100 g edible part. It is rich in minerals like potassium (114 mg), phosphorus (44 mg), calcium (39 mg), sodium (14.1 mg) and iron (0.8 mg) per 100 g edible part (Jood and Neelam, 2011). India ranks second in area and production of cabbage in the world after China. It is grown in 435.9 thousand hectare with production of 8573.3 thousand metric tonnes and productivity of 19.8 metric tons per hectare in India. The major cabbage growing states are Uttar Pradesh, Karnataka, Bihar, West Bengal, Odisha, Gujarat, Punjab, Himachal Pradesh, Haryana and Rajasthan. In Madhya Pradesh, it is grown in 25.1 thousand hectare with a production of 70.38 thousand metric tons and highest productivity of 28.1 metric tonnes per hectare (NHB, 2020). Cabbage needs nitrogen in optimum amount and excessive amount may cause loose head formation and internal decay; if nitrogen is not adequate amount it would not form heads (Verma and Nawange, 2015). Phosphorus is an important constituent of living and enters in the composition of phospholipids, nucleic acids, nucleoprotein and coenzymes. Potassium involves in carbohydrates metabolism, enzyme activation, nitrogen uptakes, protein synthesis and translocation of accumulates and improve quality (Singh et al., 2004). Potassium increased vigour and disease resistance in plant. It also regulates water loss from the plant by maintaining the balance between anabolism, respiration and transpiration. Thus, it reduces the tendency to wilt and help in better utilization of available water, which ultimately helps in the formation of protein and chlorophyll and improve the quality of cabbage head in relation to taste and keeping quality (Sharma, 2016 and Neethu et al., 2015).\r\nMATERIALS AND METHODS\r\nConducted a field experiment at the Vegetable Research Field, College of Horticulture, Mandsaur, Madhya Pradesh during the rabi season of 2016-17 under the edaphic and climatic conditions of Mandsaur. The topography of the field was uniform with proper drainage. The soil was light alluvial, light alkaline (pH 7.8), low available nitrogen (207.2 kg/ha), medium available phosphorus (19.75 kg/ha) and high available potassium (448 kg/ha). The experiment consisted two varieties (V1-Golden Acre & V2-Pusa Drumhead) and six nutrient levels (N1-75:50:60 kg NPK/ha, V2-75:75:60 kg NPK/ha, V3-100:50:60 kg NPK/ha, V4-100:75:60 kg NPK/ha, V5-125: 50:60 kg NPK/ha & V6-125:75:60 kg NPK/ha) laid out in factorial randomized block design with three replications. A uniform dose of nutrient was applied through urea, DAP and muriate of potash. Half dose of nitrogen and full dose of phosphorus and potash were applied as basal dose; while the rest dose of nitrogen was given at 20 days after transplanting. Other intercultural operations and crop management practices were carried out in accordance with the recommended package of practices. The studied for selected attributes by using five plants in randomized manner. All data were statistically analyzed using the F-test procedure given by Panse and Sukhatme (1985). The difference between treatment means were compared with the critical differences (CD) at 5% level of probability (P=0.05).\r\nRESULTS AND DISCUSSION\r\nA. Growth Parameters\r\nVarieties. Significantly maximum values of plant height (34.33 cm), number of leaves per plant (16.30), dry weight of plant (380.63 g) and days to 50% head maturity (87.68 days) were observed in cabbage variety Pusa Drumhead compared to Golden Acre (29.97 cm, 14.77, 165.18 g and 69.05 days; respectively) (Table 1). The observed differences in growth parameters of cultivars are mainly due to the nature of genotype. Similar findings have been also found by Yaday et al. (2013) in cauliflower, Gabhale et al. (2014) in cauliflower, Giri et al. (2013); Zaki et al. (2015) in broccoli, Haque (2015) in cabbage, EI- Bassiony et al. (2014); Chaudhari et al. (2015).\r\nNutrient levels. Significantly higher values of plant height (36.97 cm), number of leaves per plant (18.56), dry weight of plant (410.57 g) and days 50% head maturity (87.06 days) were recorded by the application of nutrient level N6 (NPK-125:75:60 kg/ha) followed by N5, N4, N3 & N2 and least in N1 (NPK-75:50:60 kg/ha) (28.63 cm, 13.18, 155.18 g and 72.33 days; respectively) (Table 1). The maximum growth under higher supply of nitrogen might be due to increasing the photosynthetic and assimilation rates; which lead to increase in the plant height of cabbage. These findings are in agreement with Kumari et al. (2015); Verma and Nawange (2015); Akand et al. (2015) in cabbage. The increased number of leaves per plant may be due to balanced fertilization of the crop. Similar results have been reported by Shree et al. (2014) in cauliflower, Mishra et al. (2014); Dadhich et al. (2015) in knolkhol. Delay in head initiation as a result of lower dose of fertility level might have increased the days to 50% head maturity. Similar results have also been reported by Mankar et al. (2015) in cabbage, Shree et al. (2014) in cauliflower.\r\nB. Yield Parameters and Yield\r\nVarieties. Maximum values of head length (15.11 cm), head breadth (25.94 cm) and total head yield (475.28 q/ha) were measured significantly under variety Pusa Drumhead over variety Golden Acre (13.28 cm, 14.49 cm and 321.03 q/ha; respectively) (Table 1 & 2). The observed difference in head length of cultivars may be due to the genotypes. These results are also reported by Singh et al. (2015) in cauliflower.\r\nNutrient levels. Higher values of head length (17.34 cm), head breadth (23.94 cm) and total head yield (518.14 q/ha) were recorded with nutrient level N6 (NPK-125:75:60 kg/ha) followed by N5, N4, N3 and N2; while minimum values (11.87 cm, 17.18 cm and 309.63 q/ha; respectively) were observed under nutrient level N1 (NPK-75:50:60 kg/ha) (Table 1 & 2). The increased supply of nitrogen might have accelerated synthesis of chlorophyll and amino acids and effective utilization of carbohydrates and other organic factors might have resulted in enlargement of head. These findings are in agreement with Verma and Nawange (2015) in cabbage, Yanglem and Tumbare (2014) in cauliflower. It is a fact that the presence of all the three major elements in a suitable combination enhanced the vegetative growth of the plants. Similar results have been reported by Mankar et al. (2015) in cabbage, Singh et al. (2015) in broccoli. This might have been due to better availability of metabolic and auxin activities of plant and resulted in increased fresh weight of leaves and head and total head yield per plant and per hectare. These findings are in close conformity to Kumari et al. (2015); Mankar et al. (2015) in cabbage, Verma and Nawange (2015).\r\nC. Quality Parameters\r\nVariety. Maximum values of protein content (16.03%) and ascorbic acid content (25.44 mg/100 g) were determined with variety Pusa Drumhead; while minimum values (14.95% and 22.98 mg/100 g) were noted in variety Golden Acre (Table 2). It could be attributed to the genetic makeup of varieties. These results have parity with Zaki et al. (2015) in broccoli.\r\nNutrient levels. Higher values of protein content (18.01%) and ascorbic acid content (28.39 mg/100 g) were recorded with nutrient level N6 (NPK-125:75:60 kg/ha) followed by N5, N4, N3 and N2; while minimum values (13.56% and 21.18 mg/100 g; respectively) were observed under N1 (NPK-75:50:60 kg/ha) (Table 2). These findings are in agreement with those of Verma and Nawange (2015) in cabbage, Kumari et al. (2015) and Mankar et al. (2015) in cabbage.\r\nD. Economics\r\nHigher value of gross income (Rs.237639.74/ha) and B:C ratio (3.59) were found with Pusa Drumhead; which was significantly superior over variety Golden Acre (Table 2). Maximum values of gross income (Rs. 259071.48/ha) and B:C ratio (3.92) were found with nutrient level N6 (NPK-125:75:60 kg/ha); while minimum values (Rs. 154813.35/ha and 2.05) were recorded under N1 (NPK-75:50:60 kg/ha) (Table 2). \r\nUnder combination of treatments; highest values of gross income (Rs. 325181.93/ha) and B:C ratio (5.18) were observed in Pusa Drumhead × NPK-125:75:60 kg/ha, while lowest values (Rs. 134443.10/ha and 1.65) were registered under Golden Acre × NPK-75:50:60 kg/ha treatment combination. Similar results were also reported by Haque et al. (2015) in cabbage. \r\n','Pooja Mishra, Rohatash Singh Bhadauria, Sourav Gupta and R.K. Sharma (2022). Effect of Varieties and Nutrient Levels on Growth, Yield and Economics of Cabbage (Brassica oleracea var.capitata L.). Biological Forum – An International Journal, 14(2): 171-174.'),(4816,'125','Assessment of Reproductive Parameters and their Relationship with Some Body Parameters in Brown Trout (Salmo trutta fario)','Tasaduq H. Shah*, Farooz A. Bhat, Asim Iqbal Bazaz, Syed Talia Mushtaq and Tariq H. Bhat','32 Assessment of Reproductive Parameters and their Relationship with Some Body Parameters in Brown Trout Salmo trutta fario Tasaduq H. Shah.pdf','',1,'The present study was conducted to estimate the absolute fecundity, relative fecundity, ova diameter and their relationship with body parameters (total length, total body weight) of brown trout (Salmo trutta fario) which is an exotic species transplanted to Kashmir more than a hundred years ago. The findings of the present study recorded a positive correlation between the total body length and total body weight with the correlation coefficient (r2) of 0.9481. Absolute fecundity ranged from 586 to 1424 eggs while the relative fecundity ranged between 1.06 to 1.67 eggs per gram body weight. There was a positive correlation between absolute fecundity values and the parameters of total length and total somatic weight of the fish with fecundity correlating more with fish weight than fish length. Gonado-somatic Index (GSI) ranged from a low of 0.31% in the month of February to a high of 12.40% in November.','Salmo trutta fario, eggs, fecundity, gonado-somatic index','S. trutta fario has a positive relationship between length and weight. Growth in the fish is negatively allometric. It is a low fecund fish. Fecundity was found to correlate positively with length and weight of the fish. Spawning season of brown trout (S. trutta fario) extends from October to January with peak in November-December. The timing of reproduction and spawning can be identified by the changes in the GSI, which determines reproductive season. Therefore, the study of these indices will not only provide useful knowledge about the effect of season on the reproductive development of the fish, but information about these parameters is also useful for rational exploitation of the fish.','INTRODUCTION\r\nCold-water fish brown trout (Salmo trutta fario), belongs to family Salmonidae. They are native to Europe, North America, Africa, Australia, New Zealand and Papua New Guinea Moyle (2002); Bazaz et al. (2021). Trout is an important fish species for recreational fishing because of its aquaculture potential, economic worth, and widespread consumer demand. It has been transplanted to Kashmir more than a hundred years back and is well established in most of the valley streams especially in streams like Sindh, Bringi, Lidder, Ferozpur and Erin. Fecundity is sometimes described as total fecundity or absolute fecundity, when expressed in terms of the number of eggs laid by each brood fish. Alternatively, relative fecundity is defined as fecundity expressed per unit body weight of post-stripped fish. With increasing age of the fish, both fecundity and egg size increases Springate et al. (1984) although, it is assumed that these changes are primarily due to larger size of older fish. Jan and Jan (2017) reported that large sized fishes contained more eggs as compared to small sized fishes. Egg production is related to the size of the fish. Brown trout (S. trutta fario) prefers wild type of environment and accepts less amount of artificial feed which is a big challenge for its culture practice. The results generated in the present study would be useful in the artificial propagation of this fish. \r\n\r\n\r\nMATERIALS AND METHODS \r\nThe present study is based on 58 specimens of brown trout in the length range of 295 mm to 501mm and weight range of 345gm to 1188gm.\r\nA. Estimation of Length and Weight Relationship (LWR)\r\nTotal length (TL) was determined using digital vernier callipers (Trusize). The length was measured from the tip of snout to the tip of its caudal fin, and its weight was determined using a digital electronic balance (Thomsons D-112). The parabolic equation, as given by Le Cren (1951), was used to develop a statistical relationship between these fish parameters as\r\n W = aLb\r\nWhere, W = fish weight (g) \r\nL = fish length (cm) \r\na = constant \r\nb = an exponent that expresses the length-weight relationship\r\nWhen the relationship (W = aLb) is represented graphically as (Log W = Log a +b Log L), it becomes a straight line relationship.\r\nB. Fecundity \r\nFish were sacrificed and both ovaries were thoroughly dissected out for the estimation of fecundity. \r\n\r\n\r\nWith the help of blotting paper, the moisture was removed from the ovaries, and their length and weight were measured. The extracted ovaries were immersed in 10% formaldehyde for 24 hours. The eggs were then dried on blotting paper for 1-2 hours, weighed in three sub-samples of one gram each from the front, middle, and posterior regions, and counted meticulously using the gravimetric technique. The absolute and relative fecundity were determined using the formula provided by (Bagenal, 1978): \r\nAbsolute fecundity = \r\n(No.of ova in the subsample \"\" total ovary weight)/(Weight of subsample )\r\nIndividual fecundity for each female fish was estimated using the mean number of three sub sample fecundity (F1, F2, and F3):\r\n F = (F1+F2+F3)/3\r\nThe following equation was used to estimate relative fecundity (number of eggs per gram of body weight):\r\n Relative fecundity =(Absolute fecundity)/(Weight of fish (gm))\r\nC. Gonado-somatic Index (GSI)\r\nThe Gonado-somatic Index (GSI) was estimated month-wise in order to determine the spawning season of brown trout. The GSI was estimated using equation given by Desai (1970). \r\nGSI = ( Gonad weight)/(Body weight)× 100\r\nRESULTS\r\nA. Length-weight relationship\r\nLength-weight relationship for female brown trout was established as W = 0.0002L2.4833 while the logarithmic relationship between the two parameters was established as LogW = -3.6136 + 2.4833 LogL. There was a positive relation between the two parameters, with the correlation coefficient (r2) being estimated at 0.9481. The value of growth coefficient (b=2.4833) was found to be significantly different from 3 which suggests that the fish follows a negatively allometric growth pattern.\r\n\r\nB. Fecundity\r\nAbsolute fecundity was estimated at 586 to 1424 eggs while the relative fecundity ranged between 1.06 to 1.67 eggs per gram body weight. There was a positive correlation between absolute fecundity values and the parameters of total length as well as total somatic weight of the fish with fecundity correlating more with fish weight (r2=0.8784) than fish length (r2=0.8211). \r\nC. Gonado-somatic Index\r\nThe Gonado-somatic Index was estimated month-wise to determine the spawning season of brown trout. It ranged from a low of 0.31% in February to a high of 12.40% in November. Based on Gonado-somatic Index (GSI) and the evidence of running as well as spent fish, the spawning season of the fish can be said to extend from October to January with peak in November and December.\r\nDISCUSSION\r\nIn fisheries biology, the length-weight relationship of fishes is an important tool for determining whether somatic growth was isometric or allometric (Koutrakis and Tsikliras, 2003). These correlations are useful for computing fish stocks and assessing population size. The present study established a positive correlation between the two parameters of length and weight with an estimated correlation coefficient (r2) of 0.9481, indicating a substantial degree of positive relation between total body length and body weight of brown trout. The value of growth coefficient (b=2.4833) was found to be significantly different from 3 which suggests that the fish follows a negatively allometric growth pattern. Rawat et al. (2014) reported similar findings on S. trutta fario, estimating the coefficient of correlation (r2) for the length-weight relationship to be 0.985, indicating a high degree of positive correlation between the length and weight of fish. In brown trout populations, Hao and Chen, (2009) found positive associations between female length, body weight, and gonad weight and fecundity. Similarly, Shah et al. (2011) recorded positive allometric growth with a b value of 2.683 for farmed female rainbow trout from Kashmir. Along the Ratnagiri coast of Maharashtra, Shah et al. (2014) observed negative allometric growth for Sardinella longiceps with a growth exponent (b) value of 2.645. Solomon et al. (2016) found a significant negative allometric growth pattern in periwinkile (Tympanotonous fuscatus) from the Okrika estuary in Nigeria, with a b value of 2.18.\r\nFecundity is a measurement of the number of eggs in a mature female’s ovary. The present study recorded the maximum fecundity of 1424 and the minimum fecundity of 891 eggs. Fish that were larger were found to be more fecund than those that were smaller in size. Similar findings have been reported by various researchers (Rheman et al., 2002; Alam and Pathak, 2010; Qadri et al., 2015; Jan and Jan, 2017; Shah et al., 2018; Wali et al., 2018; Mohamad et al., 2018; Ali et al., 2020). Variation in fecundity among fishes is common, depending on various parameters such as the fish\'s size, age, and condition. According to Bagenal (1967), length and weight are reliable indicators of egg production capacity; hence, fecundity increases as the fish grows in size. This trend was also observed in the current study, where the quantity of eggs increased as the length and weight of the fish increased. Shafi et al. (2013) reported a straight line relationship between fecundity and total length and body weight. This indicates that when the body and gonad weights increases, the number of eggs in the ovaries increases proportionally. The parameters of total length and total somatic weight of the fish had a positive correlation with absolute fecundity values, with fecundity correlating more with fish weight than with fish length. The value for correlation coefficient (r2) for the relationships was estimated at 0.8211 and 0.8784 respectively. The results obtained in the current study are in harmony with the above mentioned studies.\r\nThe gonado-somatic index (GSI) is a measure of gonadal development and maturity of fish, which increases as the fish matures and then drops abruptly (Parameswarn et al., 1974). In the present study, GSI ranged from a low of 0.31% in February to a high of 12.40% in November. The gonadal development was observed to be slow and well-defined, peaking in November. Thereafter, GSI gradually declined. The spawning season of the fish can be said to extend from October to January with peak in November and December. According to Yeldan and Avsar (2000), GSI is extensively employed to investigate the spawning period since its value is directly related to gonad development. Similar results have been reported by Jan and Jan (2017) who reported higher values of GSI in S. trutta fario during November- December with the highest value of GSI observed in November and declined gradually from January. \r\n','Tasaduq H. Shah, Farooz A. Bhat, Asim Iqbal Bazaz, Syed Talia Mushtaq and Tariq H. Bhat (2022). Assessment of Reproductive Parameters and their Relationship with Some Body Parameters in Brown Trout (Salmo trutta fario). Biological Forum – An International Journal, 14(2): 175-179.'),(4817,'125','Perceived Level of Important Extension Activity and Competency of Agricultural Extension Officers (A.E.Os)','Bhumireddy Chandhana*, Dipti Rekha Pujari, Battu Preethi and T.K. Mandal','33 Perceived Level of Important Extension Activity and Competency of Agricultural Extension Officers A.E.Os Bhumireddy Chandhana.pdf','',1,'Agricultural Extension Officers were the major people in charge of transferring technology in the right manner, thus a study was done to establish their perceived importance and competency in extension activities. In the year 2019, a study was undertaken on Agricultural Extension Officers in the Andhra Pradesh district of Anantapur. For the analysis, a Hershkowitz 2 × 2 matrix was used. The findings suggested that the A.E.Os had high competency-high importance for conducting farmers meetings, offering technical advice and feedback, and soil sample collecting out of eight extension activities. Although they had a low level of competency when it came to visiting contact farmers, they perceived it as an important activity. As a result, the Department of Agriculture must organise training programmes to improve the competency abilities of A.E.Os so that they can effectively undertake these extension operations.','A.E.Os, Competency, Hershkowitz 2×2 matrix, Importance extension activity.','The study concluded important extension activities and competency of Agricultural Extension Officers. Conducting farmers meetings, providing technical advice and feedback, and soil sample collecting activities were all included in the High Competency-High Importance and Agricultural Extension Officers needed to be kept up to date on new technologies and skills. Visiting contact farmers was fallen under high importance and low competency and in which trainings, workshops have to conduct for improvement of competency skills of Agricultural Extension Officers.','An agricultural extension service provides farmers with agricultural technical assistance as well as the inputs and services they need to support their agricultural productivity. As scientific research is rapidly progressing, with new approaches being introduced on a regular basis. The difficulties faced by Indian farmers would remain un-resolved unless these agricultural advances are disseminated from research to client systems. Agriculture extension workers were the main people in charge of ensuring that technology was transferred in the right fashion. The effectiveness of extension services is also highly dependent on the ability of extension workers who are competent as the whole extension process is dependent on them to transfer information from extension organizations to the clients (Tiraieyari et al., 2010). The success of any extension programme will be determined to a large extent by the ability of her extension personnel to display competence since the whole extension delivery process is dependent on them to transfer new ideas and technical advice to the rural people (Owen, 2004). Suvedi and Ghimire (2015) noted that the role of extension today goes beyond technology transfer to facilitation; beyond training to learning and includes assisting farmers to form groups, dealing with marketing issues, addressing public interest issues in rural areas such as resource conservation, health, monitoring of food security and agricultural production, food safety, nutrition, family education, youth development and partnering with a broad range of service providers and other agencies in rural development. It is critical to understand the degree of performance and competence of agricultural extension officers in order to improve their competence and performance, as they were the primary conduits for knowledge transfer. Unless the employees are well informed about their performance and also their strong and weak points, it’s very difficult for them to improve their level of performance (Mishra, 2005). Issahaku (2014), Competency is a skill, a personal characteristic or a motive demonstrated by various behaviors which contributes to outstanding performance in a job. Anisha (2012) reported that competency is a set of knowledge, skills and attitudes required to perform a job effectively and efficiently. The purpose of this study was to determine the perceived importance and competency of Agricultural Extension Officers\' extension activities.\r\nMETHODOLOGY\r\nThe research was carried out in the Andhra Pradesh district of Anantapur. Purposive sampling was used to select 5 mandals from Anantapur district (Putlur, Tadipatri, Peddapappur, Yellanur, and Pamidi). Random sampling technique was employed to select 50 respondents from the Anantapur district in the year 2019. The following steps were taken to determine the degree of competency of Agricultural Extension Officers working in agricultural development. The items (activities) were pre-tested with ADOs and A.E.Os to determine their relevance in the field. Eight items (activities) were chosen for administration to the AEOs after discussions with Department of Agriculture experts. The extension activities includes: Soil sample collection, Visiting contact farmers, Providing technical advice and feedback, Crop cutting survey, Crop demonstration, Field survey, Disaster management and Conducting farmers meeting.\r\nIt was developed to assess the importance of the above-mentioned extension activities as well as assess the competence of Agricultural Extension Officers to carry out the activities for agricultural development. Each item (activity) was given a five-point scale with weights of 5, 4, 3, 2 and 1 for very important, important, moderately important, little important, and unimportant, respectively for assessing the importance of activity perceived by Agricultural Extension Officers. Similarly, a five-point scale with weights of 5, 4, 3, 2 and 1 for very competent, fairly competent, moderately competent, little competent and not at all competent was used to assess the competency of Agricultural Extension Officers to perform extension activities. Each item was given a weighting in terms of importance and competency, and respondents were asked to rate it.\r\nAccording to Hershkowitz (1973), a 2 × 2 matrix was developed to determine the importance of extension activities and A.E.O competency. First, an overall mean score was determined for all items related to importance and competency. The overall mean importance and competency scores were then plotted on the x- and y-axis, respectively. From each of these points, perpendicular lines were drawn, resulting in a 2 × 2 matrix. High competency - High importance (HH), High competency - Low importance (HL), Low competency - High importance (LH), and Low competency - Low importance (LH) were the four quadrants of the matrix (LL). Then, based on mean rankings for importance and competency, all of the extension activities were arranged in the matrix.\r\nRESULTS AND DISCUSSION\r\nFrom the Table 1 based on mean scores given by A.E.O’s on extension activities, the most important extension activity was conducting Farmers meeting (4.86) followed by Soil sample collection (4.68), Providing technical advice and feedback (4.44), Visiting contact farmers (4.26), Disaster management (3.80), Crop demonstration (3.74), Crop cutting survey (3.50) and the least was Field survey (3.36). Competency skills of A.E.O’s on extension activities based on mean scores reported that the highest competency skill was on Conducting farmers meeting (4.50) followed by Providing technical advice and feedback (4.34), Soil sample collection (4.06), Crop demonstration (3.92), Crop cutting survey (3.88) Visiting contact farmers (3.76), Field survey (3.26) and the least was Disaster management (3.00). Agbamu (2017), reported that practitioners had highest competency in public relations job followed by simplifying agricultural research results and least in use of visual aids and practitioners’ perception of the importance shown highest in the use of visual aids followed by practical (method and result) demonstration and use of audio aids were ranked as last.\r\nFig. 1 represents the mean scores of major activities and competency skills of A.E.Os in the form of a 2×2 matrix. Conducting farmer meetings, providing technical advice and feedback, and Soil sample collection were considered under High Competency-High Importance activities. The A.E.Os considered these activities to be very significant and required high competency skills. As a result, there is no requirement for A.E.Os to be trained in these extension efforts. Crop demonstrations and crop cutting surveys were \r\ncategorised as High Competency-Low Importance activities. Contacting farmers had fallen into the Low Competency-High Importance category. These activities were critical, but A.E.Os lacked proficiency, necessitating training for them. Field surveying and disaster management had been relegated to the Low Competency-Low Importance category. There was no need for any recommendations because these activities were of lesser importance and competency. Similar studies were done by Debnath et al. (2014) reported that AO’s (40 per cent) have high level of job competence and job performance. Because of limited activities in the guidance of others, adaptability to new environment, making judgment and creativity in new work VLWs had medium level of job competence. So, AO’s still needs to be improved in job competence, but its urgency for VLW’s. Karbasioun et al. (2007) studied the competency needs of AEIs that subject matter understanding scores highest. Presentation skills are amongst the top three competencies needed. Most of the other competencies are specific for the work of human resource development specialists (like understanding learning processes, feedback skills, relationship building, adult training and development, and objective preparation). \r\n \r\nFig. 1. 2×2 Matrix determining Important activities and Competency of A.E.Os.\r\nKhan et al. (2012), stated about the technical competencies of AEOs as highest competency skills were presented in the “Describe agricultural recommendations regarding vegetables” (0.75) and the lowest in the “Describe agricultural recommendations regarding floriculture” (0.60). Kusumalatha and Shivalinge Gowda (2020) reported that 41.11% of the respondents had medium level, 30.00% and 28.89% had high and low level of job competence. Panjshiri et al. (2018), reported as majority respondents (62.90 %) had medium level of competency, 20.00% and 17.10% had low and high levels, respectively. Rohit et al. (2017), concluded that the KVK scientists had high competency possession on Ability to present seminar with mean score 3.237 and lowest competency possession on Ability to use computer (Internet) and PowerPoint presentation with mean score 2.539 and training is needed. Timothy (2015) assessed these areas (extension organization, programme planning, communication, resource management, human development, educational process, social system and efficient thinking) for competence of extension personnel, among these their least competent is social system and efficient thinking.\r\n','Bhumireddy Chandhana, Dipti Rekha Pujari, Battu Preethi and T.K. Mandal (2022). Perceived Level of Important Extension Activity and Competency of Agricultural Extension Officers (A.E.Os). Biological Forum – An International Journal, 14(2): 180-183.'),(4818,'125','Effect of Intercropping Mungbean, Cowpea and Sesame with Maize and on Faw (Spodoptera frugiperda) Infestation','G.S. Bhagat*, H S Kushwah, P. Panwar, R. Mehra, M. Nagar, R.K. Sanodiya, D.K. Pancheshwar and G.K. Rana\r\n','34 Effect of Intercropping Mungbean, Cowpea and Sesame with Maize and on Faw _Spodoptera frugiperda_ Infestation G.K. Rana.pdf','',1,'The invasive fall armyworm (Spodoptera frugiperda), which has lately emerged as a significant economic pest devouring maize fields across Africa, is currently causing farmers to grapple with viable control strategies. Corn that has been fed in the whorl generates a distinctive row of perforations in the leaves. The effectiveness of West African black pepper extract and beans intercropping systems as viable FAW control strategies, as well as the impact on maize yields, were investigated. There were six treatments in total (control, row arrangement, and intercropping), each with three replications. The degree of FAW was determined ten to ten days after planting (DAP); while maize infestation was determined ten DAP. For the control and dwarf beans intercrops, FAW severity rose significantly over DAP, with the maximum levels at four and six DAP respectively','Maize, intercropping, advantage and Fall Armyworm.','From the results it was concluded that we found the FAW is a significant pest that arrived suddenly and spread rapidly, destroying roughly a third of the harvest, and that farmers estimate that the FAW costs them around a third of their maize crop. Farmers are having trouble dealing with this pest, and effective management measures are urgently required. The maximum reduction of FAW was observed in maize when maize + cowpea grown regular in 1:1 row arrangement followed by paired 2:2 and maize + mung bean regular 1:1. Hence this combination for intercropping could be taken as ideal one.','INTRODUCTION\r\nFAW is a well-known pest that can result in significant yield losses in a variety of commercially important crops. FAW prefers corn as a host, and it often results in yield losses of 15–73 percent. Corn was destroyed by the newly invasive FAW populations, with average losses of 26.6 percent in Ghana and 35 percent in Zambia (Day et al., 2017).\r\nThe FAW was first discovered in Africa in 2016 and has since moved across the continent and into Asia. Although late instar larvae cannot pass through the base of maize seedlings billing the entire plant, FAW larvae feed on immature leaf whorls, ears, and tassels in maize. Due to the veracious eating behaviour of larval instars, considerable defoliation can be noticed at a severe level, with abundant faecal material left over on the plant. Crop growth and development are eventually halted, resulting in no cob or tassle production (Raddy, 2019). Pest infestation in crops is determined by the amount of pests, the timing of infestation, the natural enemies and pathogens of the pest that are available at the moment, and the plant\'s health. According to Baudron et al. (2019), there is an 11.57 percent yield drop in maize when pest incidence ranges from 26.4 percent to 55.9%.\r\nCrop rotations, intercropping, and mulching of crop leftovers at the field size can be used in climate smart agriculture to allow for different crop margins (Pumarifio et al., 2015). Crop diversity management at all scales can also be tailored to improve pest control in the field; for example, specific intercrops can be used to reduce pest infestation by reducing larvae movement between crop plants, reducing oviposition on crop plants, and harboring natural enemies and increasing their activity.\r\nMATERIAL AND METHODS\r\nThe trials were conducted in kharif season in the year 2020-21 on a well levelled field at Agriculture farm of the Mahatma Gandhi Chitrakoot Gramodaya Vishwavidyala, Chitrakoot Satna (M.P.). The farm is situated under the agro-climatic zone Bundelkhand Region of Northern Madhya Pradesh. Chitrakoot is situated between 25°10 North latitude and 80°52 East longitudes and about 190-210 meter above mean sea level.\r\nBefore seeding the crop (July 13, 2020), a number of soil samples were taken at random from the experimental plot to a depth of 0-15 cm to determine the fertility state of the field. These samples were combined, and a composite soil sample for chemical analysis was taken. The soil texture of the experimental plot was sandy loam, with a neutral soil pH, according to the results (7.0). In the experimental plot, the electrical conductivity was normal, organic carbon and available nitrogen were low, available phosphorus was high, and available potassium was medium.\r\nTreatments and experimental design: In the study, Sesame was included in a steady maize population. The treatments included solitary maize, Sesame, and maize-Sesame intercropping in 1:1 and 1:2 row ratios. With three replications, the experiment was set up in a Factorial randomised full block design. Each experimental plot area was 5.0 m × 6.0 m in length (30 m2), with a net plot area of 16.8 m2. Plants from the net plot area\'s interior rows were employed to collect data.\r\nRESULTS AND DISCUSSION\r\nNumber of FAW affected maize plants observed in Devis scale (10 days interval) as affected by intercropping system of mungbean/cowpea/sesame with maize.\r\nFall Army Worm Effect: The lowest intensity of FAW infested plants were observed under maize + cowpea regular in regular (1:1) row arrangement followed by maize + cowpea paired (2:2) row arrangement in all the observation recorded on Devis scale basis. It may be due to higher spreading nature of cowpea growth which create obstacle to movement of FAW from one row to another rows of maize as well as cowpea plant may be secreted unfavourable smell for FAW or chemical secreted by cowpea roots. Firake (2019) studied that maize crop with legume crops (eg. Maize + pigeon pea/black gram/mungbean) can be effective to control FAW. Hailu et al. (2018) suggested that intercropping with leguminous crops i.e. Soybean, Groundnut, beans etc with maize protects crop from FAW as against \r\nwhen it is monocropped and is well accordance with the results. Harrison et al., (2019) mentioned that FAW may be controlled with sustainable management of soil, intercropping with appropriately selected companion plants and diversifying the form environment. Intercropping recorded parasitism of FAW by Bran Conids but increased parasitism by Techinids.\r\nPlant populations of maize were recorded at 25 DAS and at harvest stage of crop in per running meter. Later on it was converted into plants/ha.\r\nIt is clear from table 2 that the FAW affected mean of plant and ten days internal. The overall mean of FAW affected plant in minimum at intercropping and row arrangement of Maize + Cowpea R (1:1) respectively and fallowed by Maize + Mungbean R (1:1) and the maximum FAW affected plant in intercropping and row arrangement of Maize + Sesame P (2:2) respectively and fallowed by Sole Maize.\r\nHailu et al. (2018); Firake (2019); Harrison et al. (2019); Tanyi et al. (2020); Khatri et al. (2020) also reported similar finding.\r\n \r\n\r\n','G.S. Bhagat, H S Kushwah, P. Panwar, R. Mehra, M. Nagar, R.K. Sanodiya, D.K. Pancheshwar and G.K. Rana (2022). Effect of Intercropping Mungbean, Cowpea and Sesame with Maize and on Faw (Spodoptera frugiperda) Infestation. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 14(2): 184-186.'),(4819,'125','Influence of Shade Net and Open Field Nursery Conditions and Growing Media on Survival Characters of Rooted Layers in Guava (Psidium guajava L.)','Priya B.*, Kurubar A.R. Ashok H. Patil S.S. and Umesh M.R.','35 Influence of Shade Net and Open Field Nursery Conditions and Growing Media on Survival Characters of Rooted Layers in Guava Psidium guajava L. Priya B.pdf','',1,'The guava plants can be propagated by seed, inarching, layering, cutting, budding and grafting. But air-layering is the best method of propagation for this crop. The percentage of survival and survival of rooted layers in open field nursery conditions is very poor and is not achieving up to an expectation of the demand at cheaper rate with high survival and survival percentage. Polyhouse nursery condition is the alternative to an open nursery conditions. The plantlets of different layered plants were studied under polyhouse and open field nursery for their survival and growth characters during 2017-18. Where there was use of four bagging media viz., soil, sand and FYM (1:1:1) (M1), soil, sand, FYM (1:1:1) and vermiwash @ 1 % (M2), soil, sand, vermicompost (1:1:1) and vermiwash @ 1 % (M3), soil, sand, poultry manure (1:1:1) and vermiwash @ 1 % (M4) with shade net (E1) and open field nursery conditions (E2). The results revealed that, among nursery conditions plant kept under shade net with bagging media of soil, sand, FYM (1:1:1) and vermiwash @ 1 % showed significantly minimum number of days taken for appearance of sprouts (11.70), maximum number of sprouts (5.78), number of leaves (23.12), number of shoots (5.42), number of primary roots (42.12), number of secondary roots (79.94), survival percentage of rooted air layers (81.98%) at 60 days after bagging (DAB), While, minimum survival percentage of rooted air layers was observed under open condition with a mixture of soil, sand, poultry manure (1:1:1) and vermiwash @ 1 % of 30 DAB (61.97 %).','guava, bagging media, nursery conditions, vermiwash.','It can be concluded that among the nursery conditions i.e. shade net were found better for root characters, growth characters and survival percentage of rooted air layers cv. Allahabad Safeda and use of mixture of soil, sand, FYM (1:1:1) and vermiwash @ 1 % were found effective to enhance root characters, growth characters and survival percentage of rooted air layers as compared to other growing media.\r\nInteraction of nursery condition and bagging media was significantly influenced rooted layers, growth and survival percentage at 60 Days after bagging (DAB).\r\n','INTRODUCTION\r\nGuava (Psidium guajava L.), the apple of the tropics, is one of the most popular fruits grown in tropical, sub-tropical and some parts of arid regions of India. Guava belongs to the family Myrtaceae, having chromosome number 2n=22 and is one of the hardy crops being cultivated throughout Karnataka state and is widely distributed throughout the tropical and sub-tropical regions of the world. It is cultivated in India since early 17th century. Guava being a hardy crop is grown in variety of soils and climatic conditions. However, the suited to red loams, medium black and other well drained soils. The guava plants can be propagated by several ways such as seed, cuttings, air layers, grafting etc. The seed propagation was wide spread earlier, now it restricted to raising of rootstock material. The vegetative propagations by air layering are becoming more and more popular on account of their cheaper cost, ease of propagation and good success rate. However, great deal of variation in per cent success is observed in air layering. One of the causes for variation has been observed to be the age of shoots used in air layering. The success in layering of guava and other fruit crops depends upon mother plants, time of layering, rainfall, humidity, temperature, rooting media, growth media, plant growth regulators and nursery conditions. In the modern times, air layering technique using growth regulators during rainy seasons is being used to achieve more success (Tyagi and Patel 2004). Maximum survival percentage of air layers might be due to better water holding capacity of media as well as more number of primary and secondary roots, number of leaves etc. The increase in yield is attributed mainly to an improvement in root development, an increase in the rate of water and mineral uptake by roots. While, maximum number of leaves might be due to the availability of more mineral nutrients and water due to efficient absorption by vigorous root system. The results are in respect to IBA also in conformity with finding of Rymbai and Reddy (2011). The rooting media such as sand, soil, saw dust (Tyagi and Patel 2004), moss grass (Kumar and Syamal 2005), poultry manure, Vermi compost and Farmyard manure (Singh et al., 2007) etc., are being used to improve the scope of air layering in guava. Similar results were also obtained by Singh et al. (1996); Karunakara (1997); Kumar and Syamal (2005); Singh et al. (2007) in guava. The higher percentage of survival after transplanting the rooted air-layers can be attributed to the possession of better root characters like higher number and length of roots. The increase in shoots might be due to early initiation of roots, more numbers of roots, root length, numbers of leaves etc., which increased the absorption of nutrients from the rooting medium and thereby increased the shoot length. The results are quite comparable with the results of Patel et al., (1989) as well as Tyagi and Patel (2004). Maurya et al. (2012) observed that “the air layering are made with soil and dung + sphagnum + 6000 mg IBA / L showed early emergence of the roots (16.33 days), increase in the number of primary roots (17.49), secondary roots (47.73), the maximum root length (10.20 cm), fresh root (3.31g) and dry root weight (0.68g) compared to control Singh et al., (2007) observed that in Air layering of guava cv. Lucknow-49 treated with IBA concentration of 6000 ppm with soil: sand: poultry manure rooting media produced maximum percentage (76.75%) of survival of 60-days-old-plants grown in poly bags. This combination of IBA with rooting media helped in producing maximum number of primary roots (18.57), secondary roots (23.91), leaves on 60 days (14.36) and length of shoots on 60 days (5.31 cm). IBA 5000 ppm and poultry manure combination was found to be second best for survival of air layering (73.25%). Reddy et al., (2014) reported maximum fresh and dry weight of shoots (34.10g, 35.96g and 43.53g) at 45, 60, and 75 DAP with the application of IBA 3000 mg/l , poultry manure and sphagnum moss as rooting media on air layers of Fig cv. Poona produced. Alloli et al. (2001) reported the beneficial effects of fly ash were more pronounced in fig, which produced the highest fresh and dry weight of roots in this media. Fly ash was the most ideal media for fig, while sawdust was the most ideal for pomegranate. Rathore (2006) observed in guava layering that rooting was 100% in the treatments including compost, loamy soil and cow dung and 60-70% in saw dust. The mean number of primary roots was the highest in compost and lowest in saw dust. Rathore (2006) conducted an experiment of guava layering. He found that rooting was 100% in the treatments including compost, loamy soil and cow dung and 60-70% in saw dust. The mean number of primary roots was the highest in compost and lowest in saw dust. However, the percentage of establishment and survival of rooted airlayered plants in open conditions is very meager and is not achieving up to an expectation of the demand with higher establishment and survival percentage. A polyhouse is a type of specialized structure that utilizes the controlled climate condition for the growth of different plants and other farming needs. We use polythene sheets to cover the structure and separate the internal environment from that of the outside. Polyhouse technology has been in use for crop production in more than fifty countries all over the world. It creates microclimate surrounding the crops that help in maximum growth regarding production of crops and increases the survival of the plants. \r\nMATERIALS AND METHODS\r\nThe experiment was carried out during 2017-2018, at the Main Agricultural Research Station, College of Agriculture, University of Agricultural Sciences, Raichur, Karnataka on a nursery block of guava Cv. Allahabad Safeda. Trees were planted at 2 × 2m spacing, the period of layering was done in 3 months with different rooting media and two nursery conditions were used that is open conditions (E1) and Shade net (E2). The observations were recorded at 90 days after layering.\r\nThe selected plants were healthy, well matured, uniform and vigorous. These selected plants were kept under ideal cultural practices, the flowers and fruits were frequently removed from the layer shoots during the course of studies. The selected shoot was 6 to 7 months old and of pencil thickness with an average length of 60cm and showing brown streaks on the bark. In a selected shoots, a ring of bark about 2 to 2.5 cm were girdled carefully by giving two circular cuts about 45-60cm below the top end of a shoots and the exposed portion was rubbed. The exposed region was applied with Rootex (bio hormone powder) after that covered with a ball of different rooting media without disturbing the applied growth regulator. The rooting media was covered with polythene tubing of 250 gauge thickness and both the ends were secured firmly using gunny thread to minimize the evaporation of moisture\r\nThese layer shoots were detached from the parent plants at 90 days after layering, 10 of the successful rooted layers were transplanted into a polybag (10 × 15 cm) containing four different bagging media combinations viz., soil, sand and FYM (1:1:1) ( M1 ), soil, sand, FYM (1:1:1) and vermiwash @ 1 % ( M2), soil, sand, vermicompost (1:1:1) and vermiwash @ 1 % (M3), soil, sand, poultry manure (1:1:1) and vermiwash @ 1 % (M4) for studying their survival under open conditions (E1) and shade net (E2). Observations for rooting percentage and root characters were taken at 90 days after layering and for survival percentage and other survival characters were taken at 30 and 60 days after transplanting. The experiment was laid out in Factorial RBD. Each treatment was replicated three times and each replication consists of 10 layers. The data were analyzed as per the procedure of Panse and Sukhatme (1978).\r\n\r\n\r\nRESULT AND DISCUSSION\r\nThe results showed that nursery conditions had significant effect on rooting attributes of layered plants at 60 days after bagging presented in table 1. Among nursery conditions plants kept under shade net at 60 DAB resulted the maximum number of primary roots (39.60), length of longest primary roots (10.35 cm), diameter of primary roots (1.67 mm), number of secondary roots (70.63), as compared to plant kept under open condition at 30 DAB. Among the various bagging media, mixture of soil, sand, FYM (1:1:1) and vermiwash @ 1 % at 60 DAB were recorded maximum number of primary roots (39.65), length of longest primary roots (10.29 cm), diameter of primary roots (1.87 mm), number of secondary roots (72.06). While, least no of these rooting characters was observed in bagging media with mixture of soil, sand, poultry manure (1:1:1) and vermiwash @ 1 % at 30 DAB.\r\nThe interaction effect between nursery conditions and rooting media had significant influence on the rooting characters represented in table 2. A maximum number of primary roots (42.12), length of longest primary roots (10.81 cm), diameter of primary roots (1.93 mm), number of secondary roots (77.96), were observed under shade net at 60 DAB with mixture of soil, sand, FYM (1:1:1) and vermiwash @ 1 %. However, minimum value of these characters were observed under open condition with mixture of soil, sand, poultry manure (1:1:1) and vermiwash @ 1 % of 30 DAB.\r\nAmong various bagging media, better nourishment of air layers of guava was found to be evident in the media with soil, sand, FYM, (1:1:1) proportion with vermiwash at 1 % with respect to rooting attributes like minimum number of days for sprouting, maximum number of sprouts, maximum number of leaves, shoots and survival percentage after 30 and 60 days of bagging. It was mainly due to combination of soil, sand and FYM has strong support for air layers early in the growth. Further vermiwash strengthen the air layers sprouting and survival. Venkatesan et al. (2010) also reported that bagging mixture of soil, sand, and Vermicompost (1:1:1) along with azospirullum significantly improved days to sprouting, length of sprout and number of leaves per plant. It was mainly due to combination of soil, sand and FYM has strong support for air layers early in the growth. Further vermiwash strengthen the air layers sprouting and survival. Venkatesan et al. (2010) also reported bagging mixture of soil, sand, and Vermicompost (1:1:1) along with azospirullum significantly improved days to sprouting, length of sprout and number of leaves per plant.\r\nShade net nursery conditions gave maximum survival percentage and growth parameters irrespective of treatments which might be due to the congenial micro-environmental conditions as compared to harsh and uncontrolled climatic conditions at open field nursery. This findings is in agreement with the results obtained by Ahmad et al. (2007) in patch budding of walnut, Singh et al. (2007) on wedge method of grafting in guava ( Psidium guajava ) cultivars Allahabad Safeda and Sardar under greenhouse condition, resulted in higher success than in an opened conditions. The positive effect of high organic matter and moisture retention capacity of FYM might have led to effective rooting of cuttings. Bashir et al. (2007); Das et al. 2006 also reported taller plant of sapota layers in media consisting of soil + FYM as one of the constituent. The high percentage of success of guava layers is possible when the environment was congenial for better survival. High success rate were obtained, when temperature are slightly high, relative humidity towards saturation, high sap flow and abundant oxygen (Hartmann and kester, 1972). \r\nThe results showed that nursery conditions had significant effect on establishments and biometric attributes of layered plants indicated in table 3. Among nursery conditions plants kept under shade net at 60 DAB resulted the highest survival percentage (78.17 %), minimum days to sprout appearance (12.62), maximum number of leaves (16.43) and (20.54) at 30 and 60 DAB and maximum number of shoots (4.58) and (5.06) at 30 and 60 DAB as compared to plant kept under open condition at 30 DAB. Among the bagging media, mixture of soil, sand, FYM (1:1:1) and vermiwash @ 1 % at 60 DAB were resulted the highest survival percentage (80.98%), minimum days to sprout appearance (12.20), maximum number of leaves (16.43) and (20.54) at 30 and 60 DAB and maximum number of shoots (4.59) and (5.10) at 30 and 60 DAB as compared to plant kept under open condition at 30 DAB. \r\nThe interaction effect between nursery conditions and rooting media had significant influence on establishments and growth parameters of plantlets layers presented in table 4. the highest establishment percentage (78.18 %), minimum days to sprout appearance (12.62), was observed under shade net at 60 DAB with mixture of soil, sand, FYM (1:1:1) and vermiwash @ 1 % and maximum number of leaves (16.43) and (20.54) at 30 and 60 DAB, maximum number of shoots (4.58) and (5.06) at 30 and 60 DAB was observed under shade net with mixture of soil, sand, FYM (1:1:1) and vermiwash @ 1 %. However, minimum value of these characters were observed under open condition with mixture of soil, sand, poultry manure (1:1:1) and vermiwash @ 1 % of 30 DAB. Shade net nursery conditions gave maximum establishment and bio metric attributes irrespective of treatments which might be due to the congenial micro-environmental conditions as compared to harsh and uncontrolled climatic conditions of open field nursery condition. This finding is in agreement with the results obtained by Ahmad et al. (2007) in patch budding of walnut, Singh et al., (2007) on wedge method of grafting in guava ( Psidium guajava L.) cultivars Allahabad Safeda and Sardar under greenhouse obtained higher successes than in an opened conditions. The positive effect of high organic matter and moisture retention capacity of FYM might have led to effective rooting of cuttings. These results are in accordance with the findings of Das et al. (2006); Bashir et al. (2007) and reported increase in plant height of sapota layers in media consisting of soil + FYM as one of the constituent. The realization of high percentage of success of guava layers is possible when the environment performed congenial for rapid growth success. High success rate were obtained, when temperature are slightly high, relative humidity towards saturation, high sap flow and abundance of oxygen (Hartmann and Kester, 1972). \r\n','Priya B., Kurubar A.R. Ashok H. Patil S.S. and Umesh M.R. (2022). Influence of Shade Net and Open FIeld Nursery Conditions and Growing Media on Survival Characters of Rooted Layers in Guava (Psidium guajava L.). Biological Forum – An International Journal, 14(2): 187-191.'),(4820,'125','Studies on Seed Quality Parameters of TSP Polymer Coated Ridge Gourd \r\n(Luffa acutangula) var. PKM 1\r\n','Sivasakthi S.* and P.R. Renganayaki','36 Studies on Seed Quality Parameters of TSP Polymer Coated Ridge Gourd Sivasakthi S.pdf','',1,'The laboratory experiment was conducted in the Department of Seed Science and Technology, Tamil Nadu Agricultural University, Coimbatore, during 2021. TSP polymer was synthesized from Tamarind Seed Polysaccharide, to coat and improve the planting value of ridge gourd seeds and replace the use of synthetic polymer for seed coating. The ridge gourd seeds treated with T0 - Control, T1 – TSP polymer at 10 g/kg; T2 – TSP polymer formulation I (TSP-PF-I) at 10 g/kg; T3 – TSP polymer formulation II (TSP-PF-II) at 10 g/kg and evaluated for its quality parameters. The results revealed that, seeds treated with TSP-PF-II significantly increased the stand establishment traits such as seed germination (86%), speed of germination (30.40), seed metabolic efficiency (10.71), shoot length (21.46 cm), root length (12.05 cm), dry matter production (1.24 g/10 seedlings)and vigour index I (2882) compared to other treatments. It reduced the abnormal seedling (6%), dead seed (8%), days for 50% germination (3.25) and mean emergence time (3.02). Biochemical traits viz., catalase, peroxidase, dehydrogenase, α- amylase activity were maximum in seeds treated with TSP- PF-II. Lowest pathogen infection was observed in seeds treated with TSP- PF-I(1.32%) and TSP- PF-II (1.35%).The results concluded that ridge gourd seeds coated with TSP- PF-II performed better seedling establishment and could be recommended as pre sowing seed treatment.','TSP polymer, Seed coating formulation, Tamarind seed polysaccharide, Ridge gourd, Seed quality, Germination.','TSP polymer and its formulations hada significant effect on physiological and biochemical seed quality traits in ridge gourd. TSP-PF- II improved the stand establishment such as seed germination, speed of germination, seed metabolic efficiency, shoot length, root length, drymatter production, vigour index I and vigour index II compared to other treatments. TSP-PF- II increased the dehydrogenase and α- amylase activity. It also showed maximum antioxidant enzyme activity such as catalase and peroxidase. It reduced the days for 50 % germination, mean germination time and pathogen infection compared to control. Thus the study highlighted that seeds coated with tamarind seed polysaccharide polymer formulation II improved the seed quality characteristics in ridge gourd. The present study was conducted in the lab conditions; further studies could be done to investigate the effect of TSP polymer and its formulations in the field conditions. ','INTRODUCTION\r\nHigh-quality seed has the ability to boost farm output and improve food security (Afzal, 2013). Seeds of superior quality are genetically and physically pure, vigorous, and devoid of pests and diseases (Halmer, 2006). Plant uniformity is an expression of potential high seed quality. Farmers and producers are always on the lookout for high-quality seeds to ensure consistent field establishment and higher yield (Ventura et al., 2012). \r\nSeed quality is influenced by several agronomic and environmental factors during seed production viz., successful fertilization, mother crop nutrition, edaphic and environmental conditions during development, maturation, harvesting at physiological maturity, proper drying and post-harvest handling operations.\r\nQuality seed alone contributes 15-20% of increased yield. Apart from production and processing factors, seed quality can be improved/maintained by practicing crops specific enhancement techniques and following good storage practices. Seed enhancements is defined as post-harvest treatments that improve germination or seedling growth or facilitate the delivery of seeds and other materials required at the time of sowing. Seed enhancement is a range of treatments of seeds that improves their performance after harvesting and conditioned, but before they are sown. Seed enhancement include priming, hardening, pregermination, pelleting, encrusting, film coating etc, but excludes treatments for control of seed born pathogens (Blackand Peter, 2006; Komala et al., 2018).\r\nSeed coating is defined as the substance applied to seed that does not obscure its shape. Seed coating usually comprises nutrients and seed protectants like fungicides and insecticides (Komala et al., 2018). Film coating, in which the active chemicals are put in a quick-drying polymer and coated around the seed, has gained favor in recent years.\r\nThe polymer covering/coating is easy to apply, quickly diffuses and is harmless to seeds during germination. It reduces the chemical wastage, helps to house all required nutrients which aids to improve the physiological potential of seeds besides protecting the seeds from fungal invasion and insect attack. It also protects the seeds from loss of chemical composition during storage. Polymer coating favors the exploitation of fullest potential of the plant protectants by way of preventing dusting and proper adherence of the material on the seed surface. Though beneficial in number of aspects continuous use of synthetic polymers and chemical colorant may increase pollution hazard and may lead to slow degradation of soil, pollute the water and atmosphere and thus effect on crop production, animal and human health.\r\nIn recent years, there has been an increase in demand for organic produce, as well as a desire to reduce the use of chemical inputs in agriculture. As a result, much attention has been paid to research into the use of bio/natural materials to substitute chemicals. Organic Agriculture or natural farming is the alternate option to sustain soil health and environment. Organic agriculture is a type of farming that promotes soil, ecological and human health. It focuses on biological processes, biodiversity and cycles that are adapted to local conditions rather than damaging inputs. Chemically treated seeds may not fulfill the requirement of organic agriculture. \r\nThe development of plant based seed coating formulations or natural/biopolymers for seed treatments are suitable alternatives to address these issues due to their outstanding properties including good coating/barrier performance, biodegradation ability and low weight. \r\nBiopolymer is a polymerized material which is produced from natural sources or chemically produced from a biological material or biosynthesized by living organisms (Struminska et al., 2014). Polysaccharide based superabsorbent hydrogels have emerged as possible alternatives; they are nontoxic biopolymers that are abundant in nature, usually inexpensive and innately biodegradable and biocompatible (Kamath and Park, 1993). Polymer derived from tamarind seed polysaccharide (TSP) is having good potential as seed coating material which forms very thin film such that without altering the size and shape which aids in identification of species. Tamarind is a commercially important tree that thrives in the dry regions of central and southern India, as well as other Southeast Asian countries (Marathe et al., 2002). The tamarind pulp industry produces tamarind seed as a byproduct (Sagar et al., 2008). Tamarind kernel powder (TKP) is widely used as a sizing material in the textile and food industries. The inclusion of a polysaccharide in TKP gives its sizing capabilities. They are used as adhesives, binding agents, encapsulating agents and swelling agents. The present paper discusses the effect of bio seed coating formulations developed from tamarind seed polysaccharide on seed quality of ridge gourd. \r\nMATERIAL AND METHODS\r\nThe laboratory experiment was conducted at the Department of Seed Science and Technology, Tamil Nadu Agricultural University, Coimbatore, Tamil Nadu, India during 2021 to study the effect of biopolymer (TSP polymer) seed coating on seed quality traits. The ridge gourd seeds var. PKM 1 were given with different treatments such as T0 - Control, T1 – TSP polymer at 10 g/kg; T2 – TSP polymer formulation I (TSP-PF-I) at 10 g/kg; T3 – TSP polymer formulation II (TSP-PF-II) at 10 g/kg. Specified dose of polymer was mixed with 15 ml of water and treated the one kilogram of seeds. Treated seeds were shade dried for one hour and evaluated for seed quality parameters. \r\nDesign of the experiment. With five replications, the experiment was done in a completely randomized block design.\r\nPreparation of seed coating TSP polymer. TSP polymer was prepared from defatted tamarind kernel powder as per the process described by Kannan and Manavalan (2007) with some modifications. Tamarind kernel powder defatted by mixing with benzene-ethanol solution (1:1 ratio v/v) at 1:2 ratio w/v and kept for 24 hours and then centrifuged at 10000 rpm for 30 minutes and the supernatants were discarded and the residue was dried in the oven at 40°C. 20g of the defatted tamarind seed kernel powder was mixed with 200 ml of 0.01M hydrochloric acid to and made into a slurry and then slurry was dispersed in 300 ml of boiling 0.01M hydrochloric acid and boiled for 30 minutes at 90oC in water bath. The slurry was cooled to room temperature, centrifuged at 4000 rpm for 10 minutes and the clear supernatant liquid was collected. From the supernatant, the polysaccharide was precipitated by the addition of equal volume of ethanol. The precipitate was separated by filtration through muslin cloth and dried in hot air oven at 50°C. Dried polysaccharide flakes were powdered with the blender and sieved through 125 μm mesh sieve (sieve number 120) and stored in airtight containers at room temperature for further study. \r\nTo prepare polymer, 10 g of Tamarind Seed Polysaccharide (TSP) and one ml of glycerol were dissolved in 200 ml of water by stirring with a mechanical stirrer at 2000 rpm. After complete dissolution of the polysaccharide 4 g of agar dissolved with the solution and heated to about 90°C in water bath for 15 minutes. The solution was cooled at room temperature and stored in refrigerator. \r\nPreparation of TSP polymer formulations. The components of the formulations are described below:\r\n \r\nComponents of TSP polymer formulation I (100 g)\r\n1. TSP polymer\r\n2. Natural preservative- lime juice (100%)\r\n3. Humic acid (HA)\r\n4. Zimmu leaf extract (100%) 100 g\r\n2 ml\r\n5 g\r\n5 ml\r\n\r\nComponents of TSP polymer formulation II (100 g)\r\n1. TSP polymer\r\n2. Natural preservative -lime juice (100%)\r\n3. Humic acid (HA)\r\n4. Zimmu leaf extract (100%)\r\n5. Ascorbic acid (AsA) 100 g\r\n2 ml\r\n5 g\r\n5 ml\r\n2 g\r\n \r\nLime juice was extracted from fully ripen lemon and centrifuged at 5000 rpm for 10 minutes and supernatant used as a natural preservative. Humic acid and Ascorbic acid were purchased from Sigma-Aldrich Chemical Co., Bangalore, India. Zimmu leaf extract was prepared by taking ten gram of fresh leaves and thoroughly washed with distilled water. The leaves were ground well with sterile distilled water (1:10) using a pestle and mortar. The extract was filtered through a muslin cloth and filtrate was centrifuged at 10,000 rpm for 15 minutes. The supernatant served as the standard leaf extract solution. \r\nSeed coating. Polymer dose for ridge gourd seed was fixed as 10 g/kg (10 g of polymer mixed with 15 ml of distilled water to coat one kg of seeds) based on preliminary study. Along with TSP polymer different active ingredients were mixed and coated on seed. Treated seeds were shade dried for one hour and evaluated for seed quality parameters. \r\nObservations\r\n(a) Seed physical traits\r\n(i) Seed moisture content and ii. 100 seed weight. Seed moisture content and 100 seed weight was estimated as per the protocol in the seed testing manual (ISTA, 2013)\r\n(b) Stand establishment traits \r\n(i) Seed germination (%). The standard germination test was conducted in the laboratory by using sand media as per ISTA (ISTA, 2013). After 14 days of germination, the number of normal seedlings produced was counted and germination percentage (GP) was calculated, according to the formula: \r\nGermination percentage (GP) = (Ng / Nt) × 100\r\nWhere Ng is a total number of normal seedlings germinated, Nt is a total number of seeds evaluated. \r\n(ii) Days for 50 per cent germination and iii. Days for maximum germination. In the sand media, the number seeds germinated was recorded daily up to final count and number of days required for 50 per cent germination and maximum germination was computed according to the protocol of Heydecker and Coolbear (1977); Mauromicale and Cavallaro (1995) respectively.\r\n(iii) Speed of germination. Numbers of seeds germinated were counted daily up to 14 days at the same time of day and speed of germination was calculated as per the protocol described by Magiure (1962). \r\n(iv) Mean germination time. Germinated seeds were recorded daily up to 14 days at the same time of day. Mean germination time (MGT) was calculated according to Bailly et al. (2000) using the formula: \r\n \r\nWhere, n is the number of seeds germinated on each day and D is the day of counting\r\n(v) Endosperm and embryo degradation (Seed Metabolic Efficiency). Amount of seed respired (SMR) was calculated by using the formula\r\nSMR = Seed dry weight before germination-(Seedling dry weight + Remaining seed dry weight)\r\nSeed Metabolic Efficiency (SME) was calculated using the formula (Rao and Sinha, 1993)\r\n \r\n(vi) Root length and shoot length (cm). Ten normal seedlings from the standard germination test were randomly selected and the root and shoot length was measured from the collar region to the tip of the primary root and tip of the shoot respectively. The average value was expressed in centimeter.\r\n(vii) Drymatter production (g seedlings-10) and ix. Total dry matter production (g). The seedlings used for growth measurement and remaining normal seedlings were placed in a butter paper cover separately and dried in shade for 24 h and then kept in an oven maintained at 85 ± 2oC for 24 h. Dry weight was recorded and the mean values were expressed in g.\r\n(viii) Vigour index I and II. Vigour index values were computed using the formula given by Abdul-Baki and Anderson (1973) and the mean values were expressed in whole number.\r\n(c) Biochemical traits\r\n(i) Dehydrogenase activity (OD value). Dehydrogenase activity of twenty five preconditioned seeds from each treatment wasestimated as per the protocol given by Kittock and Law (1968). \r\n(ii) α – amylase activity (mg maltose min-1). α – amylase activity was estimated based on the procedure given by Simpson and Naylor, 1962. \r\n(iii) Catalase activity (Sinha, 1972). Catalase activity was measured by an assay of hydrogen peroxide (Sinha, 1972). \r\n(iv) Peroxidase activity (ΔOD 430 mg-1 min-1). Peroxidase activity was estimated as per the procedure described by Singh et al., 1980. \r\n(d) Seed health\r\n(i) Pathogen infection. The pathogen infection test was carried out as per the procedure prescribed by ISTA, 2013. \r\nData analysis. Statistical analyses of the experimental data were performed using the SPSS software (ver. 18.0). All of the data presented are the averages of five replicates, with deviations calculated as the standard error of the mean (SEM). Analysis of variance (ANOVA) was used for statistical processing. Duncan test post hoc analysis was performed to define which specific mean pairs were significantly different. A significant level was defined as a probability of 0.05 or less.\r\nRESULTS AND DISCUSSION\r\nIn the present study, ridge gourd seeds were treated with TSP polymer, TSP-PF-I and TSP-PF-II. Untreated seeds served as a control. Treated and control seeds were analyzed for physical, physiological, biochemical and health parameters. The objective of the present study was to evaluate the effect of TSP polymer, and combination of TSP polymer and additives to improve the planting value of ridge gourd seeds. \r\nA. Physical parameters\r\nThe result showed that, non-significant differences for seed physical parameters viz., seed index and seed moisture content among the seed treatments. Polymer coating formed very thin film around the seeds without obscuring its shape and total seed weight, hence it did not increase the seed weight significantly (Table 1). Polymer treatment did not alter the seed moisture content significantly (Table 1), because treated seeds were dried under shade before analyzing the seed quality parameters. These results are in conformity with the results of Mahantesh et al. (2017) in cotton and John et al. (2005) in maize. \r\nB. Physiological parameters\r\nAmong the treatments, TSP-PF-II significantly increased the seed germination (86%) and reduced the abnormal seedling (6%) and dead seed (8%) percentage compared to control (77, 12 and 11% respectively) and other treatments (Fig. 1 and Table 1). Seeds treated with TSP polymer shows non-significant difference with control. While TSP polymer added with additives exhibited improved physiological parameters. The improved germination and reduced abnormal seedling in TSP-PF-II may be due to the plant growth promoting substances present in the polymer. HA or AsA or both may involve in increased growth. As quoted by Nikbakht et al. (2008), HA is a cell elongation factor, which enhances the cell division and elongation, promotes the root development and nutrient uptake. Abnormalities that are caused by various situations viz., lack of food reserves, mechanical damage, adverse environmental condition during development, improper storage and physiological ageing. Here HA supplies both micro and macro nutrient; AsA scavenges the free radicle which developed during storage and promotes germination and reduces the abnormal seedling and dead seeds. \r\nSabzevari et al. (2009); Prakash et al. (2014); Mosapour et al. (2014) found that HA increased the germination rate in wheat, radish and marigold respectively. Because of its low molecular weight, HA was easily absorbed by the seed, increasing the absorption of nutrients such as nitrogen and phosphorus (Asenjo et al., 2000) and stimulating seed germination (Asgharipour and Rafiei, 2011; Basalma, 2015).\r\nThe mechanism of HA\'s effect on seed germination is unclear; nevertheless, two effects are mentioned in certain resources: HA has a direct (production and function of plant growth hormones) and indirect (improved absorption of nutrients) influence on seed germination (Nardi et al., 2002).\r\nThe germination improvement in TSP-PF-II may also be due to added ASA. Hydrogen peroxide, superoxide species, and other free radicals are detoxified by ASA, a water-soluble antioxidant. It also plays an important function in plant growth processes such as cell division and cell wall expansion (Azooz, 2013). Some germination indicators are improved by seed treatment with ASA, such as germination percentage, mean germination time (MGT), seedling fresh and dry weight in cumine (Ghiyasi et al., 2015), cowpea (Nunes et al., 2020) and pea (Burguieres et al., 2007). AsA ameliorates the germination percentage and speed of germination in wheat (Khan et al., 2020), sunflower, rape seed (Dolatabadian and Modarres Sanavy, 2008) and soybean (Ramya, 2015). AsA improves seed germination by acting as a cofactor in the biosynthesis of many plant hormones, including ethylene, gibberellic acid (GA), and abscisic acid (ABA), as well as maintaining the process of phytohormone mediating signalling (Barth et al., 2006). It also plays a role in several plant physiological processes (Farooq et al., 2013). AsA is also involved in photosynthesis, hormone manufacturing, and antioxidant renewal, as well as controlling cell division and growth (Conklin and Barth, 2004).\r\nSpeed of germination, shoot length, root length, drymatter production, vigour index Iand vigour index II significantly increased by TSP-PF-II (30.40, 21.46 cm, 12.05 cm, 1.24 g, 2882 and 106.64 respectively) compared to other treatments (Table 1, 2 and Fig. 1). It also significantly increased the Seed Metabolic Efficiency (SME) (Table 2). The amount of shoot and root drymatter (g) produced from 1 unit (g) of dry seed weight respired is known as SME. As a result, the greater the value of seed metabolic efficiency, the more efficient the seed is, as more seed reserves are employed to produce roots and shoots. The production of more vigorous seedlings in TSP-PF-II treated seeds may be due to added HA substances or AsA or combination of both. HA treatment increased the root fresh weight and length in cucumber, squash, marigold and geranium (Hartwigsen and Evans, 2000). Sabzevari et al. (2009) demonstrated that HA increased the seed vigor index of Triticum aestivum significantly. HA increases the length of root and shoot, increases the fresh and dry weight of root and shoots (Hartwigsen and Evans, 2000 in pea; Asgharipour and Rafiei, 2011 in barley; Basalma, 2015 in safflower; Rodrigues et al., 2017 in corn) and increases the cell elongation (Smiriet al., 2015) in peas. \r\nat 10 g/kg \r\n \r\nCordeiro et al. (2011) investigated the influence of humic acid on maize root growth and discovered that humic acid promoted root development and enhanced the fresh-dry weight ratio of corn roots. The enhanced seedling length and dry weight is due to HA increasing chlorophyll pigments and hence increasing photosynthesis. According to Ghasemi et al. (2012), HA raises the chlorophyll pigment, which increases the photosynthetic rate and efficiency, which could be the explanation for the seedlings higher weight. In the presence of humic acids, absorption of macro elements (N, P, K, Mg, Ca) and micro-elements (Cu, Fe, Zn.) increased and also improved fertility and mineral reserves by dissolution of macro elements, which promotes seedling growth (Canellas et al., 2002).\r\nThe non-enzymatic antioxidant AsA can protect plant tissues from the damaging effects of reactive oxygen species (ROS) (Kibinza et al., 2006). AsA activity results in high levels of resistance to oxidative damage and decreases cell damage (Tabatabaei, 2015). Onion seeds treated with AsA, alpha to copherol and glutathione had the best germination, speed of germination, seedling dry weight, and seedling vigour index, according to Varun Kumar et al. (2020).\r\nTSP-PF- II significantly reduced the mean emergence time and days for 50% germination (3.02 and 3.25) compared to remaining treatments (Table 1). The results of Canellas and Facanha (2004) revealed that the application of HA in soybean increased its water absorption, germination rate and respiration and decreased the mean germination time.Sabzevari et al. (2009) studied the effect of humic acid on the germination of spring wheat and demonstrated that HA decreased germination mean time. AsA reduced the mean emergence time and time to 50% germination in wheat (Khan et al., 2020), sunflower, rape seed (Dolatabadian and Modarres Sanavy, 2008) and soybean (Ramya, 2015). \r\nC. Biochemical parameters\r\nSeeds treated with TSP-PF-II was significantly increased the antioxidant enzyme activity such as catalase (66.78 μg H2O2/min/mg protein) and peroxidase (3.73 ΔOD 430 mg-1 min-1) activity compared to control (54.28 μg H2O2/min/mg proteinand 3.13 ΔOD 430 mg-1 min-1 respectively). Non-significant difference was observed in other treatments compared to control (Table 3). \r\nDehydrogenase and α-amylase enzyme activity was more in seed treated with TSP-PF-II (3.21 OD value and 14.23 mg maltose min-1) compared to other treatments and control (Table 3). This may be due to As A present in the polymer. Ascorbic acid induces the up-regulation of diverse antioxidant enzymes such as super oxide dismutase, peroxidase and catalase in wheat (Shah et al., 2019).\r\nVarun Kumar et al. (2020) discovered that onion seeds treated with antioxidants such ascorbic acid, alpha tocopherol, and glutathione had the maximum activity of the dehydrogenase enzyme and alpha amylase enzyme. Alfalfa seed treatment with AsA improves alpha amylase activity (Chen et al., 2021). Seed priming with ascorbic acid greatly boosted the activity of peroxidase in wheat and maize seed, according to Moori and Esivand (2017) and Ahmad et al. (2012). Razaji et al. (2012) discovered that under drought stress, As A greatly increased the catalase and peroxidase activity of safflower.\r\niv. Pathogen infection\r\nThe results shows that the seeds treated with TSP-PF-I and TSP-PF-II significantly reduced the pathogen infection (1.32 and 1.35% respectively) compared to TSP polymer treated seeds (4.27%) and untreated control (4.0%) (Table 3). This may be the reason for reduced seed death in TSP-PF-I and TSP-PF-II. Reduced pathogen infection is due to antimicrobial agent (zimmu leaf extract) added to the TSP-PF- I and TSP-PF-II. Satya et al. (2005) found that the leaf extract of zimmu showed the maximum antifungal activity against Rhizoctonia solani and it also effective in inhibiting the growth of other fungal and bacterial pathogens viz., Aspergillus ﬂavus, Alternaria solani, Curvularia lunata, Xanthomonas campestris pv. Malvacearum, X. oryzae pv. oryzae, and X. oxonopodis pv. citri.\r\n','Sivasakthi S. and P.R. Renganayaki (2022). Studies on Seed Quality Parameters of TSP Polymer Coated Ridge Gourd (Luffa acutangula) var. PKM 1. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 14(2): 193-201.');
INSERT INTO `pdf_upload` VALUES (4821,'125','Evaluation of Integrated Multi-Trophic Aquaculture System for Rearing of Grass carp, Prawns and Freshwater Mussels in a Freshwater Reservoir','Jacob, J., Dube K.*, Chadha N.K., Reddy A.K., Chandrakant M.H., Abisha R. and Raju K.D.','37 Evaluation of Integrated Multi-Trophic Aquaculture System for Rearing of Grass carp, Prawns and Freshwater Mussels in a Freshwater Reservoir Kiran Dube Rawat.pdf','',1,'India has vast potential in the form of freshwater reservoirs and there is a need to diversify aquaculture from the traditional aquaculture of carps and catfishes. Hence, this study was conducted to evaluate the feasibility of rearing grass carp (Ctenopharyngodon idella), giant freshwater prawn (Macrobrachium rosenbergii) and freshwater mussel (Lamellidens marginalis) in an integrated multi-trophic aquaculture (IMTA) system using cages installed in a freshwater reservoir. The fishes were randomly (completely randomised design - CRD) distributed in 5 different combinations (treatments) in triplicates. Grass carp alone and a combination of prawn, mussels was designated as T1 (10 Nos. /0 Nos. /0 Nos.), T2 (0 Nos./10 Nos./16 Nos.), respectively. The remaining 3treatments of varying IMTA combinations of grass carp, prawn and mussels were designated as T3 (10 Nos./10 Nos./16 Nos.), T4 (15 Nos./10Nos./16 Nos.), and T5 (20 Nos./10 Nos./16 Nos.), respectively. The grass carp were fed with commercial feed of (CP: 25 - 26 %) while the prawns and mussels were not fed. After 120 days, there was no significant difference in the water quality, final weight, SGR and WG% of grass carp, survival of mussels and also quality of designer image pearls (mabe pearls) produced. However, the growth of prawns was significantly (P<0.05) higher in the T5- IMTA treatment (15.90 g ± 0.21) with significantly (p<0.05) highest specific growth rate (2.16 ± 0.07) and weight gain (%) (1225 ± 81.21) than the other treatments. Feed conversion ratio (FCR) was significantly (p<0.05) lowest (1.01) and the total production (5424.84 ± 53.46 g) was significantly (p<0.05) highest in the IMTA treatment T5. The present study demonstrates that IMTA with grass carp, freshwater prawn and freshwater mussels at a stocking density of 20 Nos. m-3, 10 Nos. m-2 and 16 Nos. box-1, respectively is a feasible technology for efficient utilisation of cages installed in freshwater reservoirs.','Cage aquaculture, Reservoir development, Sustainable aquaculture, Ctenopharyngodon idella, Macrobrachium rosenbergii, and Lamellidens marginalis','Thus, based on the findings of this study, the authors indicate that grass carp, freshwater prawn, and freshwater mussel can be successfully integrated into an IMTA system in cages in a freshwater reservoir. Use of new technologies like IMTA in the numerous underutilised water bodies will promote aquaculture and increase water productivity globally and nationally. IMTA can provide returns from two or more species while providing inputs for only one. Thus, as an alternative to standard cage farming, IMTA in cages can generate revenue for those who rely on tropical freshwater reservoirs for their livelihood.','INTRODUCTION\r\nPopulation growth with the earth reaching for 10 billion by 2050, coupled with climate change, land scarcity, and water pollution has put the world\'s nations in a race to provide universal food and nutritional security (Ahmed et al., 2019). Fish and other aquatic products will be critical in ensuring this goal due to their high protein and essential fatty acid content. To replace an estimated (average) 46 percent rise in meat and deliver the equal edible protein, simulation models suggest future aquaculture production (mixed and marine scenarios) must expand fourfold (Froehlich et al., 2018). However, non-fed species must be included in aquaculture to efficiently use the released nutrients and the water body\'s diverse niches while increasing returns in comparison to conventional culture systems (Chopin and Robinson, 2006; Nobre et al., 2010). This lays the groundwork for the notion of IMTA (Integrated Multi-Trophic Aquaculture), which is not polyculture in the conventional sense but a modified version of polyculture (Van Rijn, 2013). Bakhsh and Chopin (2012) called the freshwater variant of this concept as freshwater integrated multi-trophic aquaculture (FIMTA).\r\nCage culture is beneficial in numerous ways. In reservoirs, it provides new skill to traditional fishermen (Karnatak et al., 2021). Simultaneously, integrated utilization of water resources through cage culture is the solution to address the growing concern of water scarcity for aquaculture while increasing the productivity of water especially in developing countries (Ahmed et al., 2014). Developing and less developed countries, particularly Asian countries have huge potential in terms of freshwater reservoirs impounded for several purposes (De silva, 2001). Utilisation of these reservoirs will not only ensure food security, but also create employment opportunities as a means of sustainable livelihood for the people in the rural areas (Ahmed and Lorica, 2002). IMTA in freshwater reservoirs is a novel concept and it can provide a risk free culture system to the farmers as it contains different components of commercial value where one can act as an insurance against the unexpected loss of any of the other components.\r\nCompatible species form the cornerstone of a successful integrated aquaculture/IMTA. Cage culture in India experimented on several species of carps (Indian major, Chinese, Indigenous), catfishes, mahseers, tilapia, etc but Pangasius (Pangasionodon hypophthalmus) has dominated the sector commercially (Karnatak et al., 2021). As a new technology in freshwater cages in reservoirs, compatible species need to be chosen for IMTA in freshwater reservoir. In an effort to promote carps, grass carp was selected because among all carps, grass carp is a widely cultured species in the world and is well adapted to polyculture system (FAO, 2020). On the other hand, giant freshwater prawn is an omnivore benthic organism which can utilize the waste from the fish culture. Mussels are extractive organisms that can efficiently extract waste released from cage culture if maintained at adequate stocking densities (Cranford et al., 2013). They also provide additional income and financial security through pearl culture to the rural fisher folk. \r\nTherefore, the present study was devised to assess the feasibility of IMTA in a freshwater reservoir integrating grass carp, freshwater prawn and freshwater mussels in different stocking densities using floating net cages.\r\nMATERIALS AND METHODS\r\nA. Experimental site animals\r\nThe experiment was carried out in floating net cages in the Dimbhe reservoir created by impounding water from the Ghod river, Ambegaon, Maharashtra, India (Fig. 1). Floating Cages (3 m × 3 m × 3 m) made of galvanised iron frames coupled with HDPE knotless netting material of 10 mm mesh installed at a water depth of >20 m were used for the present study. The efficient water depth of the cages was 2 m. Boxes used for mussels (implanted for pearl production) were made of plastic (45 × 21 × 10 cm) with perforations (1 cm). Combinations of three different species were used as experimental animals, fed species (grass carp) and extractive species (freshwater prawn- feed waste, faeces; mussel – organic components, seston). The grass carp fry, Ctenopharyngodon idella, were procured from the Prayas fish farm, Powarkheda, Madhya Pradesh. The giant freshwater prawn juveniles, Macrobrachium rosenbergii, and freshwater mussel, Lamellidens marginalis, were collected from the wild (Lonavala and Amba river in Maharashtra, respectively). The fishes, prawn and mussels were acclimatised in the reservoir water in separate cages and crates respectively for a week prior to stocking into different treatment groups with the respective stocking densities. \r\nFreshwater mussels of average length (10.55±0.56 cm) and weight (58.42 ± 1.20) g were incorporated into the system and implanted with designer images (the images for nacre secretion to accumulate) to form image pearls (designer mabe pearls). A dough was prepared using a mixture of powdered mussel shells, an adhesive (Araldite® Standard) and coconut oil. This dough was pressed into metallic dies of images to get an impression of the images on the dough. The resulting image was sun dried, edges were cut and smoothened and used as nuclei for implantation. Such images were implanted in the acclimatised mussels by following mantle cavity insertion as per the method of Misra et al. (2009). \r\nC. Experimental design and rearing\r\nThe experiment was done using acclimatised grass carp, prawns and implanted mussels in 5 treatments (Table 1). The grass carp (Initial avg. body weight 0.52 ± 0.02 g), freshwater prawn (Initial avg. body weight 1.15 ± 0.02 g) and mussel (Initial avg. body weight 58.42 ± 1.20 g) were stocked in floating net cages as per the experimental design (T1, T2, T3, T4, T5) in triplicates following the completely randomised design (CRD). The experimental animals were stocked with the stocking density as follows (Grass carp.m-3/prawns.m-2/mussels.box-1), T1 (10/0/0), T2 (0/10/16), T3 (10/10/16), T4 (15/10/16) and T5 (20/10/16). The stocked fish were reared for a period of 120 days. Grass carp was fed with a commercial feed (crude protein 25-26 %), twice a day at apparent satiation, while no feed was given to the prawns and mussels. The nets of the cages were periodically cleaned to maintain the water quality inside the cages. \r\nD. Sampling \r\nPhysico-chemical characteristics of water in the cages such as temperature, dissolved oxygen, pH, total alkalinity, hardness, TAN (Total Ammonia– N), nitrate - N, nitrite - N, phosphate were checked fortnightly as per standard protocols (APHA, 2005). The water samples were collected between 10 AM and 10:30 AM.\r\nThe fish and prawn were sampled fortnightly to record the growth performance. Similarly, implanted mussels were also checked for image rejection, mortality and overall condition. 10% of the stock from fish and prawn were sampled each time. \r\nOn completion of the experimental trial, the animals were harvested and required data was collected and calculated as per formulae mentioned below.\r\nMussels were assessed for pearl formation and quality of nacre deposition. They were graded visually for lustre and any malformations using a 3 point scale modified from Li et al. (2017). 3 signified “bright” with “no cracks or blemishes”; 2 for “medium” with/without 1 or 2 spots or cracks; 1 for “dull” with/without more than 2 spots/cracks.\r\nTotal yield = Yield of grass carp + yield of prawn (in treatments where applicable)\r\nE. Ethics statement\r\nAll the ethical guidelines as per the ethical committee of the institute has been duly followed in this research work.\r\nF. Statistical analysis\r\nThe data was analysed in IBM-SPSS (Statistical Package for Social Sciences) version 22. Treatment mean values were tested in one way ANOVA and post-hoc analysis was done using Duncan’s multiple range test to analyse the significant difference among the mean values. The level of significance was set at 95% confidence level (P<0.05). \r\nRESULTS AND DISCUSSION\r\nIMTA can aid in better utilisation of reservoirs because of its environmental sustainability and remediating capacities. Generally it is a bioremediation technology for the intensive culture of high value species in cages in developed countries (Fang et al., 2016; Ellis and Tiller, 2019). But, implementation in a freshwater reservoir will help in establishing a low-intensive cage aquaculture in reservoirs for increasing productivity from the cages. It can also increase the economic yield from cage culture in rural areas.\r\nThe water quality parameters (Table 2) viz. temperature, dissolved oxygen, pH, alkalinity, hardness, NH4-N, NO3-N, NO2-N and PO4-P did not display any significant difference among treatments in the course of the experiment. The insignificance of physico-chemical characteristics of the water among all the cages was because this experiment was done in a small scale in comparison to the size of the reservoir and the wastes were flushed out due to wave action. However, there was a variation in the temperature over the culture period which might be due to the influence of the seasons (Sehgal et al., 2013). Nevertheless, all water quality parameters were found to be in the optimal range for aquaculture in general (Boyd and Tucker, 2014; Pillay and Kutty, 2005) and cage culture in reservoirs in particular (Devi et al., 2017). As far as IMTA systems in freshwater is concerned, Kibria and Haque (2018) also observed no changes in the physicochemical parameters of the culture water in their experiments comparing IMTA and monoculture in ponds. Thus, it can be affirmed that the water quality was maintained well in all cages and there could have been no negative effect of water quality on any of the cages that could have reduced the growth or yield of any of the cages in comparison to other treatment cages.\r\nThere was no significant difference among the treatments for final weight (16 g approx.), SGR, WG% and survival of grass carp. This is due to the low stocking density used in this experiment in comparison to suggested stocking density (Mane et al., 2019) for carps. It would have aided for the growth of grass carp fry in a stress free environment. The growth of grass carp in this study can be corroborated to the findings of Taher et al. (2017) who studied the growth of grass carp under different feeding regimes and obtained a growth of 14.05 g when fed with pelleted feed of 20 % protein. Fishes in this study were fed a commercial diet having higher protein (25-26 %). Moreover in IMTA systems also, the growth of primary species i.e. the fed species among various stocking densities was reported to be insignificant in freshwater (Kibria and Haque, 2018) and brackish water (Biswas et al., 2019). Therefore it can be seen from this experiment that the integration of grass carp (maximum density of 20 m-3) with prawn and mussels had no negative or positive effect on the growth and survival of the grass carp making grass carp a suitable species for integration with prawns and mussels in an IMTA system.\r\nGrowth of prawn juveniles in the IMTA treatments (T3, T4, T5) showed significance (p<0.05) than those in control (T2) with highest final body weight in T5 (15.90 g ± 0.21) (Table 3) even though they were not fed. This was because the prawn in the IMTA groups was nourished by the uneaten feed and waste that was produced by the grass carps in the cages in the water column. Highest growth of prawn was in the IMTA cages with higher density of grass carp. More fish meant more feed waste and faeces for prawn to feed. IMTA is a modified form of polyculture where the nourishment of the prawn depends entirely on the feed given to the fish and the remaining feed and faeces have high nutrient content as per findings of Kibria et. al. (1997). Integrated aquaculture experiments on Amazon River prawn and Tambaqui fish conducted by Flickinger et al. (2019) reported that the extractive animals (unfed prawn) in the IMTA had 53-75 % higher efficiency in conversion of feed to finished products than that in monoculture. This is further supported by the results of Dong et al. (2018) who maintained different treatments of IMTA with freshwater prawn and obtained highest growth in the IMTA with higher number of fish. The survival of prawns in various treatments showed no significant difference (P>0.05) among the treatments. It is also reported that in a polyculture setting, prawn shows better growth (Costa-pierce et al., 1984) because prawn and carp can utilize different niche efficiently. Thus, the compatibility of prawn with grass carp in an IMTA system can be seen from the higher growth of prawns in the IMTA treatments of this experiment.\r\nAt the end of the experimental period, the average survival of mussels in the treatments was94 %. The images implanted in the IMTA treatments developed into image pearls displaying a whitish and silvery tinge with no significance between treatments. However, based on the scale used, “medium” pearls were obtained in IMTA treatments T4 and T5 and “dull” were obtained in the treatment T2 with prawns and mussels only (Table 3). The implanted mussels in this experiment showed a final survival of 94% at the end of 120 days experiment. Hossain et al. (2004) after working with different species of mussels concluded that the freshwater Mussel L. marginalis showed highest survival and pearl formation (pearl sacs were formed) in a period of 3 months and hence suggested them to be the ideal species for freshwater pearl production. Similarly, Pandey and Singh (2015) also got a survival between 20-85 % in different methods of implantation with higher survival rate after mantle insertion. The implanted mussels were placed in boxes hung along the sides of the cages, in order to utilise the water in the cages which is expected to have better plankton availability supported by the nutrients released from the cages than other parts of the open water body (Degefu et al., 2011). The nutrients released from the cages would have stimulated algal growth and increased plankton in their study. Bivalves are highly efficient filter feeders with capacity to filter 10 – 100% of the water in the column in a day (Strayer et al., 1999), they filter and feed on alga, zooplankton and also particulate organic matter such left over feed (Janakiram, 2003) this makes them highly suitable for the IMTA system as they can filter and extract the nutrients released from the cages. On harvest of the image pearls from mussels, it was observed that the images started developing a shiny layer of the nacre of whitish silver colour and on evaluation showed no significant difference among them. In a study conducted by Tanu et al. (2019), pearls with nacre of 4.17-5.19 mm were obtained only after culturing them for a period of 3 years in ponds with regular fertilisation and mineral supplementation. Cranford et al. (2013) suggests, in order to obtain an economical product from IMTA, stocking density must be higher. Hence, it is advisable to keep the density higher than 16 per cage as per availability. Thus, freshwater mussel, Lamellidens marginalis is an efficient and valuable component for integrated multi-trophic aquaculture in freshwater reservoirs. \r\nWith regard to feed conversion ratio (FCR), lowest significant FCR of 1.01 was obtained in the IMTA treatment T5similar to the results obtained in other IMTA experiments by Dantas et al. (2020).\r\n The highest significant total yield of grass carp and prawns (5424.84 ± 53.46 g) was also obtained in the IMTA treatment T5 (Table 3). This is in agreement to the reports on the growth of freshwater prawn and tambaqi fish in IMTA treatments by Flickinger et al. (2019, 2020); Dantas et al. (2020). As a whole, only the total yield in the IMTA (T5) treatment varied significantly in comparison to other treatments and it was the growth of the prawns that contributed significantly to the overall yield of the other treatments. Similar results obtained by Biswas et al. (2019) in their experiment of Brackish water IMTA (BIMTA). In their study, there was no significant difference in the growth of mullets between the control and the treatment groups but it did affect growth of P. monodon. This proves that integration has a positive influence on the growth of the extractive organisms as in the present experimental trial. Work on IMTA by Kibria and Haque (2018) also reported similar results. This is because the animals in the lower trophic level utilise the waste feed and assimilate the inorganic nutrients efficiently (Chopin and Robinson, 2006) which leads to maintenance of optimal water quality, prevents growth of obnoxious algae and other unwanted planktonic organisms while giving higher production when compared to a monoculture. ','Jacob, J., Dube K., Chadha N.K., Reddy A.K., Chandrakant M.H., Abisha R. and Raju K.D. (2022). Evaluation of Integrated Multi-Trophic Aquaculture System for Rearing of Grass carp, Prawns and Freshwater Mussels in a Freshwater Reservoir. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 14(2): 202-208.'),(4822,'125','Estimation of Stability Performance in Seed Yield and its Components in Pearl Millet (Pennisetum glaucum [L.] R. Br) Hybrids of Semi-arid Eastern Plains of Rajasthan','Amit Kumar*, Kinjal Mondal, Dhirendra Singh, Mukesh Kumar Yadav and Govardhan Lal Kumhar','38 Estimation of Stability Performance in Seed Yield and its Components in Pearl Millet _Pennisetum glaucum [L.] R. Br_ Hybrids of Semi-arid Eastern Plains of Rajasthan Amit Kumar.pdf','',1,'During kharif 2018, a study on genotype × environment interaction for seed yield in Pearl Millet (Pennisetum glaucum L.) was carried out using a randomized block design with three replications in three artificially created environments having varied doses of fertilizers. A total of eighteen hybrids were chosen to estimate their stability with respect to different morphological characters as well as identify the best hybrid with respect to high yield. The environment indices for all the characters, were found in between -2.85 (environment-III) and 1.76 (environment-I), indicating an enough diversity provided to run the experiment satisfactorily. A significant portion of the genotype × environment interaction was explained by non-linear regression on the environment means. The linear component was significant, but its magnitude was lower than the non-linear component, indicating the importance of environmental effects on genotypes. Three hybrids (MPMH-17 followed by HHB-197 and RHB-177) were found to be environmentally stable. With a slope of unity and a mean square due to deviation from regression equal to zero, they produced more than the average mean yield among all the genotypes under test.','Pearl millet, Stability, Regression coefficient, Environmental indices, Standard deviation','In the final conclusions by the use of Eberhart and Russell model, out of eighteen the three hybrids of pearl millet namely, MPMH-17, HHB-197 and RHB-177 were indicated high stable seed yield over the environments. Therefore, above mentioned all the three hybrids are recommended for cultivation on large scale.','INTRODUCTION\r\nPearl millet [Pennisetum glaucum (L.) R. Br.], popularized as bajra (2n = 14) belongs to the family Poaceae (earlier Gramineae) and is highly cross-pollinated crop with protogynous condition (Animasaun et al., 2019). It is heterogenous as well as heterozygous in nature. In India, pearl millet ranks fourth amongst the most widely cultivated food crop after rice, wheat, and maize. Total cultivable area covers 6.93 million ha throughout the nation and secures 8.61 million tons of annual production and 1,243 kgha−1 of productivity (Directorate of Millets Development, 2020). Pearl millet is thought to be originated in West Africa (Vavilov, 1950). Although it is grown all over the world, Nigeria, Pakistan, Sudan, and Saudi Arabia contribute as the major pearl millet growing countries throughout the globe. In India, the major pearl millet growing states are Rajasthan, Maharashtra, Gujarat, Uttar Pradesh and Haryana, covering nearly 90% acre.\r\nBreeders have recognized the importance of evaluating many potential hybrids in different environments before selecting desirable ones for release and commercial cultivation (Gupta and Ndoye, 1991). Many researchers have used a variety of approaches to determine genotype stability across a wide range of environments. Finlay and Wilkinson (1963) estimated barley stability using a regression technique first proposed by Yates and Cochran (1938). As a measure of stability, they used linear regression with a high mean yield. Average stability and general adaptation are indicated by genotypes with a regression coefficient of 1.0 and a high mean yield. A stable genotype, according to Eberhart and Russell (1966), must shows a slope of unity and a deviation from regression of zero. The deviation from regression, a second stability parameter, appears to be very important, as the genotype × environment interaction (linear) sum of squares was only a small part of the genotype × environment interaction. Several breeders (Singh and Gupta, 1978; Pethani and Kapoor, 1985; Virk, et al., 1985) have used this approach extensively, emphasizing that linear regression should be regarded as a measure of genotype response, whereas deviation from regression should be regarded as a measure of genotype stability, with the lowest deviation being the most stable. Eagles et al. (1977) found that different regression values accounted for less than 20% of the genotype × environment sum of squares for oat lines. In some circumstances, such as deviation from regression caused by differences in disease resistance, Witcombe (1988) suggested that mean squares from deviation from regression as a measure of stability is invalid.\r\nIn agricultural field, study on Genotype × Environment interaction (G × E) is a common phenomenon (Abdelrahman and Abdalla 2002). When environment changes, gaps between genotypic values may increase or decrease which may cause genotypes to even rank differently between environments. Stability means stable performance of a hybrid in wide range of environmental condition. Usually, no hybrids can perform equally in all environments due to their particular genetic barriers. In adverse conditions, unlike the pure lines, hybrids show reduced performance rather than total crop failure. Yield is a complicated attribute, influenced by a number of morphological and physiological characteristics, including maturity, panicle length, panicle diameter, test weight, and so on. As those parameters inherit very simply, their exploitation looks so easy. Many scientific reports have already demonstrated a positive association with the final outcome i.e., seed yield.\r\nPlant breeders have long sought to create genotypes with a wide range of adaptability. A huge range of genotype-environment (G × E) interactions, many a times creates complexities while determining the genetic influence on variability. Plant breeding programs strive to create genotypes that are phenotypically stable and adaptable to a variety of settings. Multi-environment testing aids in the selection of genotypes that excel in terms of yield and other traits. This study looked into G × E interactions for ultimate outcomeas well as important yield-contributing aspects in pearl millet.\r\nMATERIAL AND METHODS\r\nFor the current study, eighteen hybrids of pearl millet (Table 1) were collected from the Rajasthan Agriculture Research Institute, Durgapura, Jaipur under the supervision of S.K.N.A.U, Jobner. Hybrid seeds were carefully sown with proper spacing (45cm × 10cm) in three artificially created environments along with varied doses of fertilizers.\r\nIn each replication, hybrid seeds were sown in two rows in a plot of 4.0 × 0.6 m2. Row to row distance was managed at 45 cm, while two adjacent plants were grown at 10 cm apart. From each plot, ten random plants, excluding the border ones were selected for recording the observations. On the field note book, we have recorded grain yield, days to 50% flowering, panicle diameter, ear length and test weight for each and every representative plants. The importance of variation owing to variations, environments, and varieties × environments interaction was compared to pooling error.\r\nStatistical analysis. The data on each character for the variations was subjected to standard statistical analysis of variance for each habitat independently (Panse and Sukhatme, 1985). After that, a pooled analysis of variance was run on the data from each group (Singh, 1985).\r\nRESULTS AND DISCUSSION\r\nEarliness is a desirable character in kharif crops where erratic rains or lack of rains, particularly in later part is very common. The early hybrids may escape the adversities and mature before the onset of various stresses. This is the reason why breeders prefer early varieties most, despite of the negative correlation between earliness and the grain yield. In the current study, we found the average values of days to 50% flowering ranging from 44.56 (RHB-177) to 57.11 days (KBH-108) with the regression coefficient in the range of 0.19 (GHB-558) to 1.64 (HHB-299) (see in Table 5 and Fig. 1) and a wide range of environmental indices (-3.50 to 3.01) (Table 3), which reflect immense difference between the environments created for this character. The S2di values for all the hybrids were found non-significant (Table 5). Of eighteen hybrids, RHB-177 was found best to perform as an early variety followed by HHB-67 and MARU-TEJ (44.78 days to reach 50% flowering). Grain yield per plant was found to have negative association with days to 50% flowering just alike the expounding of Abuali et al. (2012); Ezeaku, et al., (2015); Govindraj et al. (2009).\r\nHarer and Karad (1998) Abuali et al. (2012); Kanatti et al., (2014) reported positive association between panicle length (cm) and seed yield per plant (g) in pearl millet. In the present study, mean value of panicle length ranging from 18.95 (MARU-TEJ) to 25.26 cm (RHB-233) with the regression coefficient in the range of -0.29 (MPMH-17) to 2.28 (RHB-233) (Table 6 and Fig. 2) and a wide range of environment indices (-1.25 to 1.95) (Table 3), indicating a remarkable distinction among the all environments created. The S2di estimates of all the hybrids were found non-significant except of HHB-299, GHB-558, 9450, 9001 and KBH-108 (Table 6). Many of the hybrids have shown non-significant deviation from regression line for panicle length. Based on mean and regression coefficient, 9001, RHB-173 and GHB-538 were found most stable among all the hybrids, whereas GHB-905, HHB-67, HHB-197 being found with below average stability looked congruent for improved management practices like high fertility and proper irrigation. High mean and regression coefficient less than 1 in RHB-233, RHB-234 indicate their stability indices exceeding the average value.\r\nThe mean panicle diameter ranged from 1.89 (MARU-TEJ) to 2.93 cm (86-M-86). The regression coefficient ranged from -1.21 (MARU-TEJ) to 3.02 (9001). The S2di estimates were non-significant for most of the hybrids except HHB-67, HHB-299, 9450, MARU-TEJ (see in Table 6 and Fig. 3). The environmental indices varied from -0.16 to 0.09 (Table 3). Kulkarani et al., (2000); Anuradha et al. (2018); Sobha Rani et al. (2019) were reported positive association between the panicle diameter and grain yield in pearl millet. In our study, mean panicle diameter was found maximum in 86-M-86 (2.94 cm) followed by HHB-299 (2.59 cm), RHB-233 (2.55 cm), and GHB-744 (2.27 cm) where the bi values were obtained close to 1, indicating their stable performance (Table 6). \r\nThe test weight ranged from 8.69 (RHB-173) to 10.62 (GHB-744). The regression coefficient ranged from -0.55 (9001) to 2.61(RHB-223). The S2di estimates were all the hybrids were non- significant (Table 7 and Fig. 4). The environmental indices ranged from -0.57 to 0.84 (Table 3), indicating differences among the environments. Irshad-ul-haq et al. (2015); Choudhary et al. (2012); Bidinger et al. (1987) were reported positive correlation between test weight and seed yield per plant, hence high mean of test weight is desirable. The S2di estimates of most of the hybrids for test weight were non- significant. Because of high mean in 86-M-86 (10.51), RHB-538 (10.31 g), and RHB-234 (9.43 g) along with regression coefficient close to 1, these have been considered as stable for test weight.\r\nThe average seed yield per five plants ranged from 23.17 (RHB-173) to 30.73 g (KHB-108). The regression coefficient ranged from -0.49 (RHB- 173) to 2.14 (86-M-86) (Table 7 and Fig. 5). The environment indices ranged from -2.85 to 1.76 (Table 3), reflecting noticeable differences among the environments created. The S2di associated with most of the hybrids were non-significant barring HHB-67, GHB-744, RHB-538 (Table 7).\r\nFor all parameters, an environment-by-environment analysis of variance revealed substantial differences between hybrids in each environment. For all of the characters, the pooled analysis revealed substantial differences across the hybrids, demonstrating that actual differences exist between hybrids. For all of the qualities that are comparable to the vast range of environmental indicators, the environmental influence was likewise extremely significant. This suggested that the surroundings had a significant impact on hybrid performance. Except for days to 50% blooming and panicle length, genotype × environment interactions were significant for the majority of the characteristics, hence stability parameters were determined for all of them. Except for plant height, panicle length, and panicle diameter, the environment plus genotype x environment interactions were significant for the majority of the traits (Table 4). The linear component of the G × E interaction was significant for test weight and seed yield per plant, indicating that hybrids had divergent linear responses to environmental changes for these characters, according to stability analysis by joint regression analysis (Eberhart and Russell, 1966).The pooled deviations for panicle length, panicle diameter, and seed yield per plant were found so significant (Table 4), that indicate that departures from linear regression also contributed significantly to the variations in hybrid stability for these traits.\r\nThe hybrids RHB-177, HHB-197, and MPMH-17 were found to be stable for the majority of the traits, making them suited for ever-changing environmental circumstances.\r\n \r\n\r\n','Amit Kumar, Kinjal Mondal, Dhirendra Singh, Mukesh Kumar Yadav and Govardhan Lal Kumhar (2022). Estimation of Stability Performance in Seed Yield and its Components in Pearl Millet (Pennisetum glaucum [L.] R. Br) Hybrids of Semi-arid Eastern Plains of Rajasthan. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 14(2): 209-216.'),(4823,'125','Impact of National Innovation of Climate Resilient Agriculture (NICRA) Project on Raising the Income and Employment level of Farmers in the Operational Districts of Odisha','Sasanka Lenka*, R.S. Panigrahi, B.B. Nanda, B.R. Pattanaik and A. Satpathy','39 Impact of National Innovation of Climate Resilient Agriculture _NICRA_ Project on Raising the Income and Employment level of Farmers in the Operational Districts of Odisha Sasanka Lenka.pdf','',1,'Raising the income and employment level of farmers was the biggest challenge for the NICRA project. The study tried to access the NICRA project has any substantial impact on raising the income and employment level of farmers. Various dimensions were taken into account during the study to access the impact level of incomeas well as employment level of farmers. The major dimension like the average land holding of farmers, the number of days associated with NICRA project, the family members looking for employment, the average days of employment available, level of satisfaction among farmers with NICRA, their annual income and savingsof NICRA farmers vis-à-vis non-NICRA farmers have been analyzed. the farmers are associated with the NICRA project for 18.7±6.7 days a month with a 95% confidence interval of 17.5 to 19.9 days. The average number of days associated with the NICRA project was highest in the Kalahandi district (23.6±2.2, 95% CI 22.9-24.2) and lowest in the Kendrapara district (13.1±3.1, 95% CI 12.1-14.1). In the NICRA project on average 3.4±0.6 numbers of family members were looking for wage employment via-a-vis 2.3±0.7 numbers of family members in the Non-NICRA areas. Out of 120 farmers, more than 4/5th have very good and 15.8% have good satisfaction with the NICRA project for employment generation. The mean annual income of NICRA farmers was Rs. 90725.00 ± 30151.7 and that of non-NICRA farmers was Rs. 58016.7 ±17850.1. The NICRA farmers have significantly higher incomes than non-NICRA farmers (p=0.000).','Climate Resilient Agro-technologies, income and employment generation','Govt. implanting various schemes, projects and time-bound interventions to expedite the production of crops as well as the income of the farmers. NICRA project is one of them. NICRA project envisages adaptation of more resilient and feasible appropriate practices including improved varieties resistant to drought/flood situations, integrated crop management practices (ICM), soil test-based fertilizer application, judicious use of farm resources, etc. by farmers in the operational villages whereas non-NICRA farmers were still practicing conventional methods as well as traditional varieties. In this regard, the NICRA project converged various programmes/schemes in the operational villages for holistic development. As a result, NICRA farmers were cultivating remunerative crops as well as micro-enterprises helped them to boost their income and livelihoods. NICRA project helped villagers to change their mindset as well as build their confidence through training and exposure visits. But it is very rare in non-NICRA villages. Hence, new villages are to be covered in the vulnerable districts across the country to minimize the effects of climate change and accelerate the income, employment and saving of farmers in a sustainable manner.','INTRODUCTION\r\nIndian agriculture not only provides food security but also ensures livelihood security for 58% population. However, agriculture is vulnerable to existing climate variability (Ochieng et al., 2016) and is further aggravated due to the impacts of climate change. Likewise, the operational holding of Indian farmers isregularly shrinking from 1.15ha (2010-11) to 1.08 ha in 2015-16 and more than 86% of farmers belong to marginal and small categories. The farmer categories are diverse, heterogeneous and unorganized. To address the effects of extreme weather events such as cyclones, floods & drought, the government of India (GoI) launched National Initiative on Climate Resilient Agriculture (NICRA) in 100 vulnerable districts in the year 2011. The second phase of the project was commenced in 2017 called National Innovations in Climate Resilient Agriculture (NICRA). With this milieu, National Innovation on Climate Resilient Agriculture (NICRA) is operating in five climate vulnerable districts of Odisha.\r\nUnderstanding the current agricultural growth, people’s required knowledge and skill on various climate-resilient technologies and coping mechanisms for sustained development (Sarkar et al., 2014). Climate transformation immensely affects the ecosystem, environment, health, and frugality of developing nations. Climate change is not only an environmental challenge, but also it has emerged as the biggest developmental challenge for the planet (Griffiths 2015). Science and technology can solve climate change-related issues (Gardezi and Arbuckle 2020). Over the years, the pace of climate change consequence has raised the temperature by 0.7°C to 2°C. That temperature directly affects the crop production, yield attributes, income and employment of farmers. Mainly the aged, disabled, poor, women-headed households and landless farmers are the most vulnerable to climate change (Mengistu, 2011).\r\nSocio-economic development safeguarded the quality of life has the core of human development.The promotion of a secure and sustainable livelihood is perhaps the key to improving the economic conditions of the farmers. Agricultural activities are the most important source of income for rural households and contribute 77% of income whereas only 23% of non-agricultural activities (Demissie and Belaineh 2013). The financial, social and human factors can improve the well-being of farmers as well as ensure food security (Fahmi et al., 2013). \r\nClimate change aggravates many challenges to the food and livelihood security of the farming community. The frequency and intensity of extreme weather events are adversely affecting farming practices and crop production (Griffiths 2015). Hence, there is a need to adopt resilience agro-technologiesin the agriculture and allied sectors.To access climate change information can improve the awareness level of small holder farmers on climate change. It will help the farmers to increase their level of consciousness on global, national, or local weather events and their impact on agricultural productivity. The dearth of information on appropriate coping mechanisms and adaptation responses may bring about constraints to coping with the adverse climatic hazards and adaptation rate. The major identified information sources are television, radio and local newspapers. The most critical constraints were inadequate information, lack of access to agricultural extension services and scarce modern climate change adaptation technologies (Popoola et al., 2020).\r\nThe average annual income of NICRA farmers has significantly increased due to multifarious interventions as well as the convergence of other agriculture and allied activities into the project villages as compared to the non-NICRA villages. Regular follow-up and monitoring of the project interventions have changed income levels as well as the knowledge, skill and attitude levelsof farmers in the project villages. \r\nMATERIALS AND METHODS\r\nA mixed research design that combined both qualitative and quantitative research techniques was deployed in this study. This is a test-control study, where the comparison is made between the NICRA- farmers (Test) and non-NICRA farmers (Control group). The districts, blocks and villages were selected following a judgment sampling approach to ensure proper representation. The respondents were selected following the random sampling method.\r\nIn each district, the only block under the NICRA project was selected. In the block two NICRA villages and one non-NICRA village were selected randomly out of the villages. In the selected villages, 20 farmers were selected proportionately from among different categories of farmers following a random process. In each district, one scientist is selected from KVK. A total of 3 Scientists were covered. In each district, two VAWs, and two extension officials of the rank of AAO, DAO, or Chief District Official were selected. In this process, there were 6 VAWs and 6 senior extension officials in the sample in one district. 15 officials each have been taken in the Non-NICRA and NICRA project areas. Out of 30 officials, 6 were scientists, 16 agriculture officers and 8 village-level agriculture staff. A total of 120 NICRA farmers, 60 non-NICRA farmers and 30 Officials were selected for the sample. \r\nPrimary data was collected through in-depth interviews with farmers by the researchers in the selected villages. Similarly for qualitative research, Focus Group Discussion was conducted with a group of farmers through interviews to capture the information by the researcher. Data collected under the study was scrutinized, codified and entered into the IBM SPSS Statistics, 24.0 software for analysis.\r\nRESULTS AND DISCUSSIONS\r\nNICRA farmers adopted more resilient and feasible appropriate practices including improved varieties resistant to drought/flood situations, integrated crop management practices (ICM), soil test-based fertilizer application, judicious use of farm resources, etc. whereas non-NICRA farmers were still practicing conventional methods as well as traditional varieties (Nyasimi et al., 2017). Different factors were responsible to accelerate the income and employment as detailed below: \r\nA. Association of Famer with NICRA Project\r\nOn an average, the farmers are associated with the NICRA project for 18.7±6.7 days a month with a 95% confidence interval of 17.5 to 19.9 days. The average number of days associated with the NICRA project was highest in the Kalahandi district (23.6±2.2, 95% CI 22.9-24.2) and lowest in the Kendrapara district (13.1±3.1, 95% CI 12.1-14.1). Table 1 present the details.\r\nB. Looking for and getting wage employment \r\nIt was analyzed that on average for how many days the farmers geta wage of employment in a month. \r\nTable 2 revealed that in the NICRA project on an average 3.4±0.6 numbers family members were looking for wage employment via-a-vis 2.3±0.7 numbers of family members in the Non-NICRA areas. Among the NICRA farmers, the average number of family members looking for wage employment is significantly higher than among the Non-NICRA farmers (p=0.000).\r\nIt is found that on an average 13.9±2.1 numbers of days the family members get wage employment among the NICRA farmers. The corresponding figure was 11.4±2.3. The average number of days of employment for family members among the NICRA farmers was \r\nsignificantly higher than Non-NICRA farmers (p=0.000). \r\nTable 3 shows that the average number of days of employment for the family due to the NICRA project did not differ significantly among the three districts(p=0.981). Thedetails are below.\r\nC. Satisfaction of farmers with NICRA project for employment generation\r\nThe satisfaction level of farmers with the NICRA project for employment generation has been tabulated in Table 4. \r\nOut of 120 farmers, more than 4/5th have very good and 15.8% have good satisfaction with the NICRA project for employment generation. In the Kalahandi district, \r\nthe satisfaction level is very good for 92% of farmers and that for Jharsuguda 82.5%. In the district of Kendrapara 60% of farmers have very good and 37.5% good level of satisfaction. There is a significant association between the level of satisfaction of farmers with the NICRA project for employment generation and the district (p=0.003). \r\nD. Last Year Average Annual Income\r\nTable 5 presents last year\'s average income of the family of NICRA and Non-NICRA farmers. The mean annual income of NICRA farmers was Rs. 90725.00 \r\n±30151.7 and that of non-NICRA farmers was Rs.58016.7 ±17850.1. The NICRA farmers have significantly higher incomes than non-NICRA farmers (p=0.000). \r\nE. Increase in Average Annual income due to NICRA project\r\nThe farmers associated with the NICRA project were asked what is the increase in annual family income due to the association with the NICRA project. It was found that average the increase in average annual income was to the tune of Rs. 24041.7±9483.4. The maximum was in the Jharsuguda district (Rs. 25500.0 ±7828.3) and the minimum was in the Kendrapara district (Rs. 21500.0 ±11627.2). Table 6 furnished the details.\r\nThis is a self-assessment by the farmers involved in the NICRA project. There is no significant difference in this mean increase among the three districts. \r\nF. Mean Savings among the NICRA Farmers\r\nMeans saving according to the assessment of non-NICRA farmers is Rs.10472.20 ± 3320.5 and that among NICRA farmers is Rs. 13861.10 ± 5270.4 (Table 7). The difference is significant (p=0.000). \r\nThe district-wise increase in mean annual family income due to the impact of the NICRA project is 26% of the total family income in their assessment. \r\nThere is a significant difference between NICRA and non-NICRA farmers due to several reasons. NICRA project generated more employment during the project implementation phase. \r\n\r\nThe crop production and productivity increase many folds due to NICRA interventions and convergence of various schemes in the NICRA villages as compared to non-NICRA villages. NICRA project minimizes the production cost. As a result, NICRA farmers saved more money as compared to non-NICRA farmers in all three districts (Murali et al., 2020). Empowering agricultural communities to obtain sustainable livelihoods through the implementation of strategies that address the common and specific challenges and strengthen the adaptive capacity of both commercial and small-scale farmers in the concerned areas (Wilk et al., 2013). \r\nG. NICRA Advantages to Farmers - Views of Officials\r\nThe views of officials (Scientists, Extension Officers) bear significance. Their opinion on involvement in the NICRA project, adoption change in the standard of living, increase in income, creditworthiness, etc. has been discussed in this section. \r\n(i) Additional Engagement of farmers in Agriculture due to the NICRA project. In the opinion of 26 out of 30 (93.3%) officials, the farmers are more engaged in agriculture due to the NICRA project for 5 days a month on average. Only 2 have said the additional engagement is 10 days a month (Table 8). \r\nMore than 93% of officials stated that the NICRA project has a significant impact on the engagement of farmers and on average 5 days a month they engaged in agriculture. During the years, NICRA farmers employed themselves more in agricultural activities due to more project interventions and infrastructure facilities created during the execution phase of the project. Some of the officials opined that some of the farmers engaged more than 10 days in a month due to project interventions. During the execution of project interventions, KVK extended all technological know-how, capacity building programmes and overall empowerment of the farming community to enable them to cope with adverse climatic conditions like droughts, floods, erratic rainfall, heatwave, cyclonic storm, etc.\r\n \r\n(ii) Farmers getting Employment. The majority of the officials (86.7%) opined that the farmers are getting employment round the year in the districts due to the NICRA project. However, 16.7% opined that they are getting employment for 10 months a year (Table 9). \r\nNICRA project has more diversified interventions based on the modules that included natural resource management, crop production, livestock, fishery, CHC and income-generating activities. Those activities were executed in NICRA operational villages to address the farmers\' needs as well as climate-resilient practices. As a result, farmers have got more employment in the project villages during the implementation of project \r\ninterventions. Jharsuguda NICRA villages performed better than Kendrapara and Kalahandi districts. \r\n(iii) Change in the Standard of Living. The officials opined that there is a change in the standard of living due to the NICRA project in terms of better food, better shelter, better medical facilities, better education and better clothes. The opinion on each of the items ranges from 33.3% to 46.7% officials Table 10). \r\nOver the years NICRA project helped farmers to get better food, better shelter, better medical facilities, better education and better clothes facilities due to higher income and profit from various activities. The officials stated that the standard of living of NICRA farmers has changed due to multifarious activities. Basic minimum services have improved. Now more than 53% of farmers availing medical facilities followed by 46.7% for better food. Foods are essential for all human beings. Food supplies energy to perform all physical and mental activities. All the officials opined that 43.3% of NICRA farmers are showing interest in their children\'s education which was very \r\ndiminutive before the project. Similarly better shelter and better clothes facilities were availed by 33.3% of farmers in NICRA areas. Overall it shows the project has significant effects on the standard of living of farmers.\r\nH. Mean annual increase in family income\r\nTable 11 shows that the mean annual income of APL farmers was 46454.6 ± 18121.8 whereas in BPL categories the mean score was 49461.5 ± 19687.5. The knowledge, skill and attitude score are directly responsible to enhance the income in both the categories in the NICRA operated villages. \r\n','Sasanka Lenka, R.S. Panigrahi, B.B. Nanda, B.R. Pattanaik and A. Satpathy (2022). Impact of National Innovation of Climate Resilient Agriculture (NICRA) Project on Raising the Income and Employment level of Farmers in the Operational Districts of Odisha. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 14(2): 217-222.'),(4825,'125','Breeding of Parthenocarpic and Gynoecious Lines in Cucurbits and other Important Vegetable Crops','Riya Rani*, B.S. Dogra and Shiv Pratap Singh','40 Breeding of Parthenocarpic and Gynoecious Lines in Cucurbits and other Important Vegetable Crops Riya Rani.pdf','',1,'Parthenocarpic cultivar development is a viable breeding strategy. With a few backcrosses, the parthenocarpic characteristic can be passed from donor line to new types. The use of conventional breeding methods to develop parthenocarpic vegetables with desirable genes is highly effective. In addition, biotechnological tools can improve the efficiency and identification of parthenocarpic genes in crops, which can help with the development of parthenocarpic cultivars. In cucurbits, breeding for stable gynoecious lines is critical. Gynoecy is used to increase yield and reduce hybrid production cost. The major goal of the cucurbit breeding programme is to increase the number of female flowers while also stabilising gynoecious inbred parents. To generate gynoecious lines, isolate, self, and evaluate selfed progenies from original populations, and maintain these lines by using chemicals to induce staminate flowers for selfing. The use of gynoecious lines in hybrid development will increase output while lowering hybrid seed production cost. The use of parthenocarpy and gynoecism in crop production will not only increase the production but it will also add quality of the produce.','Seedless fruit, Parthenocarpy, Gynoecious, Hormones, Sex expression','Parthenocarpy is a significant characteristic for enhancing vegetable crop yield, quality and processing. Parthenocarpic vegetables can be created naturally or by using several approaches such as plant growth regulators, conventional breeding, mutation, irradiated pollen, chromosomal number alternation and biotechnological tools. Biotechnological tools can be used to improve the efficiency and identification of parthenocarpic genes across crops, which will benefit humanity. In cucurbitaceous vegetables, gynoecious lines behave as male sterile lines. The production and maintenance of stable gynoecious inbreds in cucurbits will make the hybrid development cost effective.','INTRODUCTION\r\nParthenocarpy is the process of an ovary developing into a seedless fruit without pollination or fertilization. When a plant\'s fruits are completely empty of seeds, have a very small number of seeds, or contain aborted seeds, it is classified as parthenocarpic. Parthenocarpy could be used to produce a variety of vegetable crops during the winter months or, more broadly, to assure yield stability in the event of poor pollination conditions. A promising approach is to produce new cultivars with the ability to generate fruits without pollination or other artificial stimuli (Yoshioka et al., 2018).\r\nMoreover, hybrid varieties of cucurbits are widely used in the production systems of many industrialised and developing countries. Cucurbit gynoecious lines are significant for hybrid seed production since the proportion of hybrid cultivars is constantly rising. Gynoecy is the condition where all flowering nodes produce only pistillate flowers. At present, several hybrid breeding programmes are focusing on stabilizing the gynoecious character and development of stable gynoecious lines (Chaudhary et al., 2001).\r\nParthenocarpy\r\nNull (1902) coined the term parthenocarpy. The word parthenocarpy comprises of two words- Parthenos- Virgin and Carpy- fruit. The natural or artificial induction of fruit development without pollination and fertilization is known as parthenocarpy. An enhanced supply of phytohormones to the gynoecium from sources other than developing seeds has been observed to be adequate to trigger fruit formation in certain parthenocarpic plant varieties. This shows that parthenocarpic gene/s may predominantly alter hormone production, transport, and/or metabolism in the ovary, resulting in greater hormone levels capable of stimulating fruit formation without fertilization (Vivian-Smith et al., 2001).\r\nAdvantages of parthenocarpic vegetables \r\n1. Due to adverse environmental condition, pollination is hampered, as result of which fruit production and productivity is affected, whereas, parthenocarpic vegetable does not need pollination and fertilization for fruit development.\r\n2. Novelty- seedless tomato, parthenocarpic cucumber and seedless watermelon, as well as rise in vegetable shelf life for better preservation.\r\n3. Improved vegetable fruit quality- absence of seeds in eggplant inhibits browning and pulp texture degradation (Maestrelli et al., 2003). Seeds can also produce chemicals that hasten the degradation of the fruit (watermelon and eggplant) (Dalal et al., 2006).\r\n4. Seeds are undesirable for use in several vegetables due to their hard leathery texture, bitter flavour and toxin content. As a result, substituting edible tissue for seeds is an appealing choice for consumers.\r\n5. Seedless tomatoes have a better taste and have a higher TSS than seeded tomatoes, and parthenocarpic cucumbers produce early.\r\n6. Providing seedless fruits and vegetables increased the profitability of processing industries.\r\n7. Vertical fruit harvest- growing parthenocarpic cucumbers in greenhouses will result in increased profit due to continual fruit set on vine.\r\n8. In parthenocarpic cucumbers, \"crown set inhibition\" has no impact, so fruit growth is continuous (Rao et al., 2018). \r\nParthenocarpic vegetables are classified into two types based on the nature of their origin: natural and artificial parthenocarpy.\r\nNatural or genetic parthenocarpy\r\nObligatory- Genetic sterility has resulted in the development of seedless fruits. Coccinia and some cucumber genotypes naturally yield seedless fruits. E.g., ivy gourd.\r\nFacultative- Due to poor pollination and fertilization conditions, seedless fruits are produced. In brinjal, natural parthenocarpy is only expressed when the weather is cold (7-10°C). This characteristic is facultative since it is only expressed in cold temperatures; once pollination temperature is favourable, normal fruit and seed set occurs. E.g., tomato, brinjal\r\nGenetics of parthenocarpy\r\nThe mode of inheritance for parthenocarpic fruit has been observed in nature and in several species, and it ranges from a single gene to several quantitative trait loci either dominant or recessive. E.g., tomato, capsicum, muskmelon (single recessive gene), eggplant (single dominant gene), cucumber (incomplete dominant gene Pc) and summer squash (single gene with incomplete dominance) (Rao et al., 2018).\r\nArtificial parthenocarpy\r\nPlant hormones are applied externally, irradiation pollen is used, or biotechnological techniques are used to generate artificial parthenocarpy (Tiwari et al., 2012). Exogenous application of irradiation pollen, natural or synthetic auxins and gibberellins during ovary development increases IAA contents, resulting in fruit growth without fertilization.\r\nMethods to induce parthenocarpy \r\n1. Environmental factors: High or low temperature, humidity, low light intensity, heavy rain and strong wind are all factors, which adversely affect the several steps of the reproductive process. The most prominent of these is temperature stress, which causes parthenocarpic fruit development in several vegetable crops. Parthenocarpy is induced by both high and low temperatures. Low temperature (Freezing temperature < 5°C) promotes parthenocarpic fruit in tomato, summer squash, bell pepper, and eggplant (7 to 10°C) (Fuzhong et al., 2005). In tomatoes, a high temperature (32/26°C) causes the formation of parthenocarpic fruit and an underdeveloped bloom. Under high temperatures, there was also a slow transition of undeveloped flowers to parthenocarpic fruit (Sato et al., 2001). Other environmental factors like low irradiance, severe water stress, and high irradiance have also been reported to induce parthenocarpy in vegetables.\r\n2. Plant growth regulators: Exogenous application of plant growth hormones such as auxins, cytokinins, and gibberellins in vegetable crops may result in the formation of parthenocarpic fruits (Dhatt and Kaur, 2016). Gustafson (1936) was the first to disclose the application of exogenous auxin to a flower for the induction of parthenocarpy. Exogenous auxin induces parthenocarpic fruit by activating auxin-biosynthetic genes in the ovaries and ovules. As DELLA silencing also produces facultative parthenocarpy in tomato fruits, auxin upregulates gibberellin production and increases GA-dependent degradation of DELLA proteins (Marti et al., 2007). The apical stalk serves as a source of inhibitors, inhibiting fruit growth even in the absence of a stimulus such as pollination. Plant decapitation redirects GAs from mature leaves to the unpollinated ovary, causing the parthenocarpic cycle to be stimulated.\r\n3. Mutation: Natural mutations occur in nature and are exploited in traditional breeding programmes. The parthenocarpic sha-pat mutants in the tomato line \'Montfavet 191\' are a good illustration of this. Radiation treatments such as helium accelerated ions in tomato, \r\nsoft-X-ray in watermelon (Kawamura et al., 2018) and gamma irradiation in citrullus lanatus (Sugiyamma and Morishita, 2002) have all been successful in generating parthenocarpic mutants.\r\n4. Polyploidy: To produce parthenocarpic fruit, scientists used an unbalanced embryo and endosperm development on a triploid background. F1 hybrid plants generated from a cross between tetraploid and diploid parents produce seedless watermelon fruits with just residual integuments (Kihara, 1951). Similary, Habashy et al., (2004) reported triploidy in tomato and cucumber by crossing diploid with tetraploid as a result of increased dry matter, TSS in tomato and Long fruiting period (2-3 months), and the ability to tolerate high temperatures (45°c) in cucumber. In wide crossings, chromosome removal may result in the development of haploids, which are of great interest to breeders.\r\n5. Conventional breeding:\r\nTwo fundamental steps in conventional breeding:\r\n— Creating a breeding population that segregates for the parthenocarpic trait of one parental genotype\r\n— Selecting individuals progeny from a segregated population with parthenocarpy and favourable non-parthenocarpic parent characteristics\r\nIntraspecific hybridization has been used to create a variety of parthenocarpic lines, such as tomatoes: Oregon T5-4, Oregon cherry, Oregon 11, Line 75/79, and IVT-line 2; eggplant: AE-P01, Talina2/1. The parthenocarpic eggplant cultivar \"anominori\" was developed as an F1 hybrid between two inbred lines, AE-P08 and AE-P01. AE-P08 was selected from the cross between F3 plant derived from Nakate Shinkuro × Talina and F4 plant derived from Talina × Nasu Chuukanbohon Nou 1. AE-P01 was selected from the cross between Talina and Nasu Chuukanbohon Nou 1 (Saito et al., 2009). Interspecific hybridization is the most popular method for obtaining parthenocarpic fruits in a variety of crops, such as watermelon.\r\nSolanum esculentum × Solanum peruvianum (Lesley and Lesley, 1941)\r\nL. esculentum × L. hirsutum -Severianin (Philouze and Maisonneuve, 1978)\r\nSolanum habrochaites x Solanum lycopersicum- IVT-line 1 (Zijlstra, 1985)\r\n6. Biotechnological approaches: Pollination for fruit development is replaced by increased quantities of hormones in the ovary or ovules, which has been exploited utilising biotechnological methods. The various approaches to increasing auxin levels in the ovary yielded good results in parthenocarpy induction (Gorguet et al., 2005). Seedless fruits can be created by expressing the auxin synthesising gene iaaM from Pseudomonas syringae pv. savastanoi under the control of the ovule/placenta specific promoter from the DefH9 gene of Antirrhinum majus. Transgenic approaches and gene silencing are effective techniques for interfering with the expression of phytohormone-synthetizing genes involved in parthenocarpic fruit development. Transfer of the rolB gene in tomato regulates auxin synthesis, resulting in seedless fruit formation (Nancy, 2015). Downregulating Chalcone synthase (Chs), the first gene in the flavonoid biosynthesis pathway, has also been used to produce seedless fruits (Schijlen et al., 2007). Gene AUCSIA action silenced by using gene silencing techniques as result auxin response increase in tomato and developed parthenocarpic fruit (Molesini et al., 2009). Biotechnology provides a wider range of options and makes obtaining parthenocarpic cultivars easier than traditional breeding.\r\nMembers of the Cucurbitaceae family have staminate, pistillate, and hermaphrodite flowers, resulting in the emergence of monoecious, gynoecious, trimonoecious, andromonoecious, gynomonoeciuos, gynodioecious, androecious and dioecious sex forms. Sex manipulation is the technique of changing the male-to-female flower ratio within individuals of a species, which leads to changes in the flowering phenology sequence in order to increase economic yield. In cucurbit breeding, sex inheritance is crucial, and sex expression is regulated mostly by genetic and environmental variables (Megharaj et al., 2017). \r\nSex Manipulation\r\nControlling non-genetic factors such as environmental influences, cultural traditions and plant growth regulators can easily modify sex expression in cucurbits.\r\nRole of environmental effects on sex expression\r\n Low temperature, short photoperiod, and high moisture availability favour female sex expression. Male flowers are produced due to the high temperature and long photoperiod. Due to endogenous ethylene synthesis under short-day conditions (8 h photoperiod), female flower producing nodes increased threefold in andromonoecious cucumbers and sevenfold in monoecious cucumbers (Yamasaki et al., 2003).\r\nRole of cultural practice on sex expression \r\nIrrigation, fertilizer application, and planting season all have a modest influence on sex manipulation. For example, increased nitrogen application results in more vegetative growth, which reduces the reproductive stage and causes flowering to be postponed. Mineral nutrients may influence plant sex expression via hormonal balance. Many cucurbits have sex expression influenced by mineral elements like boron. Application of boron at 4 ppm reduces number of days to first male and female flower production in cucumber and watermelon (Singh and Choudhary, 1988). Boron at 4ppm reduces the number of days it takes for the first male bloom to appear in bittergourds, as well as the male: female flower ratio (Gedam et al., 1998).\r\nRole of plant growth regulators on sex expression\r\n Growth regulators applied during the two-or four-leaf stage, which is the key stage at which either sex can be suppressed or promoted, it can change the sex ratio and sequence. Plant hormones also influence the male-to-female flower ratio in cucumber plants; ethylene and auxin encourage female flower formation, whereas gibberellins stimulate male flower formation. Ethylene suppresses gibberellins, a hormone that causes male flower formation and hence helps induce female flowers. GA3 as an ethylene biosynthesis blocker and AgNO3 as an ethylene action blocker prevent ethylene action and boost male flower production. \r\nDevelopment and Maintenance of gynoecious lines The desire to stabilise the gynoecious character and generate stable gynoecious inbred parents has grown in recent years, and it has been a frequent goal of many hybrid breeding initiatives. The development of gynoecious lines is mainly due to the involvement of spontaneous or chance segregation of gynomonoecious lines, which lead to the isolation of gynoecious lines in the segregating population. Repeated backcrossing improves gynoecious lines and can be maintained via selfing. It is possible by utilising growth regulators to induce staminate flowers for selfing as a pollen source (Chaudhary et al., 2001). Bommesh et al., 2020 develop and maintain gynoecious inbred lines from the gynoecious parthenocarpic cucumber hybrids. To develop segregating populations, four slicing cucumber lines were raised. Individual plant selection was made in the F2 population. Based on the gynoecy sex expression, these lines were forwarded to the F4 generation, and the average performance of all four gynoecious lines was recorded.\r\nGynoecious lines are developed through inbreeding and plant-to-row selection; complete gynoecious development take 3-4 consecutive selfing generations, and silver nitrate (AgNo3) was found to be statistically significantly superior for effective staminate flower induction for the maintenance of gynoecious lines among the chemicals used. In bittergourd, four gynoecious lines (Gy-1, Gy-14, Gy-15, and Gy-34) were isolated as 100% gynoecious in nature (Jadhav et al., 2018).\r\nMaintenance of gynoecious lines\r\nThe following are common guidelines for inducing male flowers in gynoecious line:\r\n• At the beginning when the plants have two true leaves, three applications of GA3 at 1000 ppm are sprayed at 15-day intervals.\r\n• From the second leaf stage, three applications of GA4/7 at 50 ppm at fortnightly intervals.\r\n• Before the first blossom opens, spray with a 600 ppm silver nitrate solution.\r\n• At the two and four true leaf stages, use AgNO3 at 250-300 ppm or silver thiosulphate at 400 ppm to encourage male flowering. \r\nTimeline of gynoecism \r\n• The first gynoecious line (M.SU.713-5) in the Korean cucumber cultivar \'Shogoin\' (PI220860) was reported by Peterson and Anhder (1960).\r\n• In cucumber, More and Seshadri (1988) identified four tropical gynoecious lines: 87-304-6, 87-316, 87-319-12 and 87-338-15. \r\n• In muskmelon, a stable gynoecious line (WI998) was produced from monoecious x hermaphrodite crosses (Peterson et al., 1983).\r\n• Three gynoecious lines, 86-104, 86-105, and 86-118, have been produced for true breeding gynoecious sex in muskmelon, according to (More et al., 1987).\r\n• A gynoecious line known as Gy263B has been discovered in bitter gourd (Ram et al., 2006).\r\n• IARI developed two gynoecious lines (DBGy-201 and DBGy-202) from a wild population (Behera et al., 2006).\r\n• In bitter gourd, two gynoecious lines (IIHRBTGy-491 and IIHRBTGy-492) have been discovered (Varalakshmi et al., 2014).\r\n• Watermelon with a gynoecious line has been discovered (Jiang and Lin, 2007).\r\nDevelopment of different gynoecious lines in cucurbits by IARI\r\nDevelopment of tropical gynoecious lines in cucumber\r\nIn temperate locations, Munger (1979) found that the gynoecious lines Gy14, SR551F, Gy3, Gy57, and Table Green 68 are best for producing F1 hybrids in slicing and pickled cucumbers. Unfortunately, with the high temperatures and long photoperiodic conditions encountered in tropical producing zones, those lines have been proven to be unstable for gynoecy. As a result, there is a need to develop gynoecious lines, which are suitable for tropical production. Temperate gynoecious lines (Gy14, SR551F, Gy3, Table green 68x Gy 3 F2, Wisconsin2757) were crossed with tropical monoecious lines (Gy14, SR551F, Gy3, Table green 68x Gy3F2, Wisconsin 2757) (Poona Khira, RKS296, RKS300). Silver-nitrate was used to maintain gynoecious aggregates (250 ppm, twice). As a result, several tropical gynoecious lines have been isolated, and they are now in the F4 or F5 generation.\r\nDuring the summer and rainy seasons of 1987, four lines were found to be true-breeding gynoecious lines: 87-304-6, 87-316, 87-319-12, and 87-338-15 (More and Seshadari, 1988).\r\nDevelopment of gynoecious lines in muskmelon (Peterson et al., 1983) developed Wisconsin998 (WI 998), a stable gynoecious line. Three gynoecious lines namely 86-104, 86-105, and 86-118, have been produced for true breeding gynoecious sex at the Indian Agricultural Research Institute in New Delhi. The 86-104 and 86-105 lines were developed by crossing a gynomonoecious line with hermaphrodite-2, whereas the 86-118 lines were developed by crossing Monoecious-1 with hermaphrodite-1 (EC 70674).\r\nThis report\'s gynoeocious lines are all F6 generation. As a result, the parents were kept in a purely gynoecious state. The gynoecious stability and maintenance scores were reached in the same growth season this way. Later generations sprayed selected lines with 400 ppm STS at two true leaf stages, resulting in beautiful flowers that were used to perpetuate gynoecious stock (More et al., 1987).\r\nInheritance of gynoecism in cucurbits \r\nThe sex expression in the progeny seeds of female homosexual crosses produced 100% female plants in F1, indicating a female:male sex ratio of 1:0, whereas 1:1 segregation of male and female plants in heterosexual crosses suggested that xx/xY chromosomes control sex expression. (Jiang and Lin, 2007) found the gynoecious gene (gy) in watermelon and produced a normal monoecious F1 hybrid by crossing a gynoecious line (Gynoecious 1) with a monoecious line (A123). In F2, the ratio of monoecious to gynoecious sex forms was 86:18, and progeny backcrosses led to segregation, with a ratio of 59:43, indicating that gynoecism in watermelon is controlled by a single recessive gene. The inheritance of gynoecism in bitter gourd was studied using the GY263B gynoecious line and the Pusa-Do-Mousami monoecious line, with the phenotype of F1 revealed to be monoecious, and the gynoecious in bitter gourd is controlled by a single recessive gene, according to the F2 population and testcross (Ram et al., 2006). Inheritance of gynoecism in cucumber is governed by a single dominant gene (Acr/acr) (Pati et al., 2015) and inheritance of gynoecism in ridge gourd is by a major recessive gene (Singh et al., 2012).\r\nUse of gynoecious lines for hybrid seed production \r\nCucumber \r\nWithout the need for male flower emasculation, hybrid seeds can be produced by using gynoecious maternal lines. There are different systems that have been proposed to produce hybrid cucumber seeds by using gynoecious lines: Gynoecious × Monoecious, Gynoecious × Gynoecious, Gynoecious × Hermaphrodite and Gynoecious × Andromonoecious hybrids. \r\nFrom these systems, Gynoecious × Monoecious and Gynoecious × Gynoecious hybrids are most commonly used. \r\nGynoecious × Monoecious\r\nFor the production of stable inbred lines, this approach has become popular. The cross of gynoecious and monoecious lines produced a hybrid with high female sex expression, uniform and concentrated fruit production, and hybrid vigour.\r\n1. Planted female and male parents (Gynoecious and Monoecious line) in ratio of 1:3 and maintained isolation distance.\r\n2. Pollination is performed by bees.\r\n3. Seeds are collected only from gynoecious plants that are hybrid seeds and also fruits of monoecious plant harvested which kept for maintenance. \r\nGynoecious × Gynoecious\r\nAfter one parent has been treated with a growth regulator to encourage male flower production, two gynoecious lines are crossed. When compared to hybrids created by combining gynoecious and monoecious lines, these hybrids are more stable for gynoecious sex expression.\r\nAlthough hybrid seed produced in this manner can be costly, the expense may be justified for greenhouse cucumbers due to their high value and low seed requirements.\r\nMuskmelon \r\nUse of gynoecious line (WI 998) for hybrid production and maintained by inducing male flowers using Silver nitrate/ Silver thiosulphate sprays @ 300-500ppm at 2-4 true leaf stage.\r\nBitter gourd\r\nTwo gynoecious lines (DBGy-201 and DBGy-202) have been developed from natural populations at IARI (Behera et al., 2006). DBGY-201 × Pusa Vishesh showed the highest heterosis for earliness, and hybrid DBGY-202 × Priya was reported to have the maximum heterosis for fruit length, weight, and yield (Dey et al., 2009).\r\n','Riya Rani, B.S. Dogra and Shiv Pratap Singh (2022). Breeding of Parthenocarpic and Gynoecious Lines in Cucurbits and other Important Vegetable Crops. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 14(2): 223-229.'),(4826,'125','Stability Analysis of Yield and its Components of Brinjal using Eberhart and Russell Model','Sofiya M.*, Anbanandan V. and Eswaran R.','41 Stability Analysis of Yield and its Components of Brinjal using Eberhart and Russell Model Sofiya M.pdf','',1,'Brinjal is one of the most important vegetable belonging to the family Solanaceae. With the ongoing erratic climate change events, the brinjal fruit yield has been affected to that extent where farmers are facing heavy economic loss. Now, it is imperative to identify stable brinjal genotypes that can perform across various environments without compromising yield. However, conducting a stability analysis is not always straight forward as the environmental conditions can fluctuate drastically. By comparing more than one stability model the selection of a stable genotype will be more reliable. Hence, a study was conducted across three environments to assess the yield performance of thirty-six brinjal genotypes. Eberhart and Russell model of stability analysis was employed which has been proved to be a reliable model and to support the findings of this model, Lewis phenotypic stability has been included. The study revealed that the genotypes ICO-427008, ICO-334660 and CO2 were relatively stable and can be further used as parents to develop a more robust stable genotype. These identified genotypes could pave way introducing high performing brinjal varieties into the market.','G×E, Environments, Yield loss, stability factor','The genotype G2 (ICO-354749) and G4 (ICO-361838) recorded high per se fruit yield per plant in all the three locations and the genotype G2 (ICO-354749) performed well with other yield contributing characters such as fruit length and average fruit weight. Analysis of variance for stability also indicated that both predictable (linear) and non-predictable (non-linear) components contributed towards significant differences in stability among the genotypes for all the characters. The Genotype × Environment analysis indicated that the genotypes G9(ICO-427008), G19 (ICO-334660) and G36 (CO2) to be comparatively stable for fruit yield per plant with better yield. Hence, these genotypes can be used as parent (donor) in breeding programmes and also for general cultivation after testing over a wide range of environments.','INTRODUCTION\r\nBrinjal (Solanum melongena L., 2n=24) belongs to the Angiospermic family ‘Solanaceae’ and it is an often-cross pollinated crop with cross pollination reported as high as 48% (Madhavi et al., 2015). China is the world’s leading eggplant producer with over half of eggplant acreage, followed by India which accounts for roughly one quarter of total world’s production. Overall, Asia accounts for about 94 percent of the world eggplant area with about 92 percent of world output (FAO, 2010). The eggplant is well adapted to grow under high rainfall and high temperatures, as well as under dry conditions with irrigation. Eggplant has moderate amounts of dietary fibre, vitamins, and micronutrients and it contributes to the diet of people in developing countries when other vegetables are in short supply. Due to its low calorie (24kcal/100g) and high potassium content (200mg/100g), it is suitable for diabetes, hypersensitive and obese patients.\r\nThere are umpteen number of commercially grown varieties and hybrids available in the market released by both public and private sector. However, a genotype possessing considerably high yield potential coupled with stable performance in different environments has great value for its adaptation on large scale and in plant breeding programme (Mehta et al., 2011; Raj et al., 2019). Moreover, there is an utmost need for development of high yielding stable varieties and hybrids for specific environments and seasons (Vadodaria et al., 2009). Genotype and environmental interaction play a significant role for any such productive gain. Selection of suitable and stable crop varieties has received much attention by the breeders as an advance approach in increasing crop production. A stable variety/hybrid is desirable for obtaining uniform crop yield over a wide range of agro-climatic situations. Stability in productivity is a major and it is important to identify brinjal genotypes capable of performing well across the environments (Sofiya & Raj, 2021). Study of stability parameters is useful to measure adaptability and stability of crop cultivars, which can be used to identify genotypes suitable for different environments from season to season. Genotype × Environment interaction is expected to play an important role in the performance of genotypes under diverse environmental conditions, besides their individual effect. Among various other stability models, Eberhart and Russell (1966) model is the predominantly used one. Krishna et al. (2022) studied mango cultivars and found Mallika to be the most stable variety using Eberhart and Russell model. Raj et al. (2019) utilized the same model and identified AU-101 as a stable hybrid under unfavourable conditions. Sara et al. (2021) studied thirty-three pearl millet genotypes for stability using the same model- and found AUBH-15 to be stable hybrid for yield. Mehta et al. (2011) studied seven long brinjal varieties and found that IBWI-2007-1 to be stable under irrigated conditions. Sivakumar et al. (2017) studied thirty four brinjal genotypes and found four brinjal hybrids to be stable for fruit yield per plant. Studied fifty five brinjal genotypes identified Pusa Uttam and Pusaupkar to be stable over four different environments. Siva et al. (2020) studied a total of thirty brinjal genotypes and found four hybrids to be stable across environment for fruit yield and its components. \r\nThe regression model of stability has been widely used in many annual crops; however, the literature is still limited for brinjal. Also, in a geographical point of view, the available studies on brinjal are mainly conducted in North India and more assessment of environmental effects on brinjal fruit yield under South Indian conditions is also a necessity. Considering the above points this study was designed to study the brinjal genotypes thar are having stable performance for yield and its components throughout the year in different environments.\r\nMATERIALS AND METHODS\r\nThe present investigation was conducted in three different locations viz., experimental farm in the Department of Genetics and Plant Breeding, garden land farm in the Department of Agronomy of Faculty of Agriculture, Annamalai University, Annamalai Nagar, Tamil Nadu and experimental farm in Virudhachalam, Tamil Nadu. The experimental materials for this study comprised of thirty-six brinjal genotypes obtained from the National bureau of plant genetic resources (NBPGR) and some land races and released varieties (Table 1). Seeds of the 36 genotypes and land races were sown in raised nursery beds. The seedings are ready for transplanting within 4-6 weeks of planting when they attain a height of 15cm with 2-3 true leaves with the spacing of 60cm between rows and 60cm between plants. The experiment was carried out in randomized block design with three replications. Fifteen plants per replication were maintained for each genotype. Recommended agronomic practices and need based plant production measures were carried out.\r\nThe observations were recorded on five traits viz., fruit length, fruit girth, number of fruits per plant, average fruit weight and fruit yield per plant. The data was subjected to Eberhart and Russell (1966) model of stability analysis and the phenotypic stability was determined by Lewis (1954) stability factor. The statistical analysis was carried out using TNAUSTAT software.\r\nRESULTS AND DISCUSSION\r\nThe join regression analysis indicated that the variance due to genotype was significant for all the traits suggesting the presence of genetic variability among the genotypes under study (Table 2). The variances due to environment were also significant for all the five \r\ntraits indicating that these traits were highly influenced by all the three locations. The variance due to G × E and E + (G × E) were also significant for all the traits inferring the differential response of the brinjal genotypes in different locations and when tested against pooled deviation it indicated that the genotypes differed widely among themselves. The E + (G × E) interaction was only significant for yield per plant against pooled error which indicated the distinct nature of seasons and G × E interactions in the phenotypic expression of the genotypes for this particular trait. High magnitude of the environment (linear) effect in comparison to Genotype × Environment (linear) for yield per plant was observed, which may be responsible for high variation to the trait in different locations. Similar observations for yield per plant was also observed by Chaitanya and Reddy (2021); Bora et al. (2011). \r\nOnce the Genotype × Environmental interaction was found to be significant, the next step was to identify the stable genotypes that interacted the least with environments giving a near consistent performance. The genotype is found to be stable based on non-significant deviation from regression coefficient, mean values and a regression coefficient value equal to unity. Thus, depending on the character, a genotype with high or low mean (desirable mean depends on the character), unity in regression coefficient and non-significant deviation from regression were considered as widely \r\nadapted and stable genotype. Above and below average stability is based on greater than unity bi and lesser than unity bi, respectively. \r\nThe deviation from regression were non-significant and regression coefficient were around the unity for genotype G5 and more than unity in G4, G8, G13, G30, G31, G34, G35 indicating above average stability, whereas greater than unity was observed in G1, G3, G10, G12, G15, G17, G20, G28, G33 indicating below average stability for fruit length (Table 3a and 3b). \r\nThe genotype G28 were found to be above average stability due to regression coefficient more than unity for fruit girth and non-significant deviation from regression. For number of fruits per plant, the genotypes G17 and G28 exhibited non-significant deviation from regression and regression coefficient were found to be equal to unity indicating stable performance. For average fruit weight, the genotypes G5, G6, G10, G13, G14, G17, G21, G24, G25 had non- significant deviation from regression and equal to unity for regression coefficient indicating stable performance across environments. For fruit yield per plant, the deviation from regression were non-significant and the regression coefficient were found to be around the unity for the genotype G9, G19, G36 indicating their stable performance Similar studies were also conducted to identify stable genotypes for fruit yield per plant, average fruit weight and fruit length by Sivakumar et al. (2017); Siva et al. (2020); Chaudhari et al. (2015); Suneetha et al. (2006); Mehta et al. (2011) in brinjal. \r\nThe criterion for identifying a genotype with less fluctuation due to environment in characters is by measuring the ratio between the high mean in any environment and the low mean in any environment. This is the simple measure of the phenotypic stability of a genotype. The stability factor nearing a ratio of 1.00 indicated the maximum phenotypic stability (Table 4). The genotypes G4, G10, G12, G17, G23, G26, G29, G34, G35 showed around unity stability factor for fruit yield per plant. The genotypes G5, G22, G28 with poor adaptability according to regression model showed around unity stability factor for three characters viz., fruit length, fruit girth, average fruit yield per plant. Almost all the genotypes showed maximum phenotypic stability for character fruit length.\r\n','Sofiya M., Anbanandan V. and Eswaran R. (2022). Stability Analysis of Yield and its Components of Brinjal using Eberhart and Russell Model. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 14(2): 230-235.'),(4827,'125','Residual Toxicity of Post Emergence Nonselective Herbicide Glyphosate on Earthworm Survival, its Population Dynamics and Reproduction Rate under in vitro condition','M. Keerthana*, C.R. Chinnamuthu, P. Murali Arthanari, N. Sakthivel, V. Rajasree and R. Shanmugasundaram\r\n','42 Residual Toxicity of Post Emergence Nonselective Herbicide Glyphosate on Earthworm Survival, its Population Dynamics and Reproduction Rate under in vitro Condition M. Keerthana.pdf','',1,'Weeds are the important biotic constraints to agricultural production. It has been estimated that on an average, weeds caused 5% loss in agricultural production in most developed countries, while loss is 10% in developing countries. Therefore, the weed management is the necessary operation to reduce the yield loss. Manual weeding is considered as efficient method, but its use has reduced due to shortage and cost of labor. Mechanical weeding is suitable only for a limited number of crops and sowing methods. Hence the choice of chemical weed management is an intelligent and cost effective one. For increasing labour cost and quick weed control in cropped and non-cropped areas, herbicides use is increasing throughout the globe. In India, currently 51 herbicides are registered for use in various crops. Excess use of herbicide may lead to residue problems in soil, phytotoxicity to crop plants, adverse effects on non-target organisms and ultimately health hazards to humans and animals. The objective of this study was to find out the effect of different concentrations of glyphosate on earthworm population, body weight and juvenile count. Results showed that different concentrations of glyphosate did not significantly affect the earthworm population and earthworm body weight. There is no mortality of earthworms observed during this experiment. The lower concentration at the rate of 10 ppm increases the earthworm population and juvenile count at 60 days after herbicide application due to the hormesis effect.','Earthworm, herbicide, nonselective, glyphosate, juvenile and body weight','Glyphosate herbicide formulations are commercially available in various salt forms, such as isopropylamine, ammonium, potassium, and trimesium salt. It is used to manage annual broadleaf weeds, grasses, and sedges in various field and row crops around the globe. Based on the experiment conducted it may be concluded that the application of glyphosate directly into earthworms did not affect the earthworm population, body weight and reproduction. The body weights of the earthworms are reduced up to 30 days after glyphosate application later the weights of the worms were increased because the numbers of juveniles in each pot were increased.A low concentration of glyphosate at the rate of 10 ppm created the hormesis or hormoligosis effects on earthworm reproduction. Therefore, the number of juvenile count was increased in 10 ppm of glyphosate compared to control.','INTRODUCTION\r\nEarthworms are an important soil organism that has the capability of maintaining soil fertility and playing a key role in sustainability. It converts the low quality organic matter into a nutrient rich product by developing a mutualistic relationship with soil microflora (Singh et al., 2014). It improves soil aeration, infiltration, soil structure, nutrient cycling, water movement and plant growth.The combined activity of earthworms and microbes helps to the retention of nitrogen and gradual release of phosphorus from the soil (Bajsa et al., 2003). They are also known as farmer’s friend, ploughman of the field, intestines of the earth, ecological engineers and biological indicators. They are hermaphrodite animals and reproduction normally occurs through copulation and cross-fertilization. Cocoons hatch after an incubation period that varies according to the earthworm species and environmental conditions. In Eisenia fetida cocoon production started during the 6th week and ceased after the 12th week. The incubation period of Eisenia fetidais about 18-26 days and the number of hatchlings from one cocoon is 2-4 (Fetida, 2018).\r\nHerbicides are used to control the weeds in agricultural fields but the heavy use of herbicides without considering the long or short term effects in soil medium degraded the soil. Most of these herbicides may cause harm to nematodes, earthworms and other biological organisms (Kumar and Kumawat 2018). In India about 6704 tons of herbicides were applied to the agricultural field in the year 2010. Of these herbicides, glyphosate is the most commonly used one in tea plantations and non-cropped fields.Over the last decade, about 6.1 billion kilograms of the herbicide glyphosate have been applied worldwide (Benbrook, 2016). \r\nGlyphosate is a broad-spectrum, non-selective and post-emergence herbicide, directly applied to plant foliage. In plants, glyphosate disrupts the shikimic acid pathway through inhibition of the enzyme 5-enolpyruvylshikimate-3-phosphate (EPSP) synthase. The shortage in EPSP production leads to reductions in aromatic amino acids that are vital for protein synthesis and plant growth. It degrades at a relatively rapid rate in most soils, with a half-life estimated between 7-60 days (Giesy et al., 2000). Many studies have indicated that the presence of glyphosate in the soil may be toxic to the earthworms, which some studies have also shown glyphosate did not affect the earthworm population in the soil but it gradually reduce the bodyweight of the earthworms (Correia and Moreira 2010). Glyphosate has been considered an environmentally safe herbicide because it is assumed tobe inactivated quickly after spraying due to rapid sorption onto particles in the soil and its fast degradation by microbes (Hagner et al., 2015). Hence this trial was conducted to find the effect of glyphosate on earthworm population and reproduction under laboratory conditions.\r\nMATERIALS AND METHODS\r\nThe laboratory experiment was conducted from November 2021 to January 2022 at the Department of Agronomy, Tamil Nadu Agricultural University. For this experiment, 15 Eisenia fetida earthworms were selected and weights of fifteen worms were measured and introduced into each pot. The known weights of earthworms were placed on each potcontaining 500 grams of soil. Four levels of glyphosate viz., 1000 ppm (T1), 500 ppm (T2), 100 ppm (T3) and 10 ppm (T4) were prepared from glyphosate 46% SL potassium salt with one absolute control (T5). Ten ml of glyphosate at different concentrations (1000, 500, 100 and 10 ppm) were added to each pot containing fifteen earthworms. The experiment was conducted in a completely randomized design (CRD) with three replications. Earthworm population and juvenile count were observed up to 60 days at an interval of 15 days.\r\nObservation on earthworm count, earthworm body weight and juvenile count were recorded during this experiment. The experimental data were statistically analysed by adopting Fischer’s method of “Analysis of variance” as per Gomez and Gomez (1984). Wherever the treatment differences were found significant, the critical differences were worked out at a 5 percent probability level. \r\nRESULTS AND DISCUSSION\r\nEffect of different concentration of glyphosate on earthworm Eisenia fetidapopulation and earthworm juvenile\r\nDifferent concentrations of glyphosate did not significantly affect the earthworm population (Table 1) and earthworm juveniles (Table 2). Glyphosate at the rate of 10 ppm has the highest earthworm (21.3) and juvenile population (6.3) at 60 days after herbicide application (DAHA) compared to control (21 and 6, respectively). There is no mortality in the earthworm population during this experiment at the same time the reproduction capacity of the earthworm did not affect by glyphosate. A similar finding was reported by Correia and Moreira, 2010 the different rates of glyphosate (0, 10, 100, 500 and 1000 mg kg-1) did not kill the earthworm Eisenia fetida.\r\nPochron et al. (2021) reported that twice the recommended dose of glyphosate (12 ml of Roundup Ready in 4 kg of soil) did not impact on earthworm mortality rate. Glyphosate 100, 10 and 1 ppm did not effect on earthworm Allolobophora caliginosa population when herbicide mixed with soil (Martin, 1982). In the treatments with glyphosate (6 litres per ha and 12 litres per ha), the number of cocoons per adult is higher than control but the survival of juveniles and adults and the fertility are lower than in the control treatment (Santadino et al., 2014). Morse (1998) points out that hormesis orhormoligosis takes place when small quantities of astressful agent, among them pesticides, can be useful for an organism in suboptimal environments. This occursin numerous invertebrates (Abdullah et al., 2006) and E. fetida, much like other earthworms, usuallyresponds to different stress factors, increasing their reproductiverate.\r\nEffect of different concentration of glyphosate on earthworm body weight: Earthworm body weight did not significantly affected by different doses of glyphosate (Table 3). Fifteen earthworm’s weights were measured before introduction into each pot. Earthworm body weight was reduced gradually up to 30 days after herbicide application including control treatment. This is might be due to earthworms inside the closed potcreatinga stressful environment. After 45 days after the application of herbicide, the weights of the worms were increased because thenumbers of juveniles in each pot were increased.\r\nRoundup Ready-to-Use III® (12 ml glyphosate into 4 kg of soil) contaminated soil did not impact on earthworm Eisenia fetida body mass after 7 days of exposure. Both contaminated and uncontaminated soil has a mean body weight of 0.13 g. At 21 days of exposure, the contaminated soil has 0.14 g of mean body weight and uncontaminated soil has 0.12 g of mean body weight (Pochron et al., 2021). Pochron et al. (2020) reported that soil treated with pure glyphosate lost 14.8- 25.9% of their earthworm Eisenia fetida biomass. At the same time soil treated with Roundup Ready-to-Use III® and Roundup Super Concentrate® (26.3 mg of glyphosate per kg soil) did not lose body mass of the earthworms (0.28 and 0.27 g of mean body mass respectively) at 40 days after glyphosate exposure compare to control (0.25 g of mean body mass). The soil treated with glyphosate at different concentration (10, 100, 500 and 1000 ppm) reduce the 50% of the earthworm Eisenia fetida body weight. The decrease in mean weight may indicate a chronic effect of this herbicide (Correia and Moreira 2010).\r\n','M. Keerthana, C.R. Chinnamuthu, P. Murali Arthanari, N. Sakthivel, V. Rajasree and R. Shanmugasundaram (2022). Residual Toxicity of Post Emergence Nonselective Herbicide Glyphosate on Earthworm Survival, its Population Dynamics and Reproduction Rate under in vitro Condition. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 14(2): 236-239.'),(4828,'125','Cellulolytic Activity of Bacillus and Pseudomonas species isolated from Sugarcane Rhizoplane and its Correlation with Carbohydrate Utilization','V. Chandra Sekhar*, P. Kishore Varma, B. Swapna, G. Vamsi Krishna and M. Bharatha Lakshmi','43 Cellulolytic Activity of Bacillus and Pseudomonas species isolated from Sugarcane Rhizoplane and its Correlation with Carbohydrate Utilization V. Chandra Sekhar.pdf','',1,'Cellulose is the most abundant and complex organic macromolecule on Earth. And Sugarcane is one of the important cash crop in India, leaves a residue of about 10-15 tons/hectare after harvest with abundant cellulose which necessitates finding simpler and most effective method for the decomposition of this vast abundant cellulose. In search for the best alternative for the degradation of the cellulose present investigation was aimed to isolate Bacillus and Pseudomonas species which have the best ability to degrade cellulose. Thus in the present study twenty four isolates of Bacillus and fourteen isolates of Pseudomonas from the rhizoplane of sugarcane by serial dilution method on Bacillus Agar Medium and Kings B Medium respectively and purified by following standard protocols. Cellulase activity of these isolates was determined by inoculating and incubating bacterial isolates on carboxy methyl cellulose agar medium at 37oC for 24 - 48 hours. Cellulase activity was assessed by measuring the clear zone formed around the point of inoculation after flooding the plates with Gram’s iodine solution. The diameter of clear zone was proportional to cellulase production. Out of 24 isolates of Bacillus screened, RB6 (Rhizoplane Bacillus 6) showed highest cellulase activity (2.23cm) followed by RB10 (2.13cm), RB15 (2.1cm), RB22 (2.1cm) and RB4 (2.0 cm). Out of 14 isolates of Pseudomonas, RP9 (Rhizoplane Pseudomonas 9) showed highest cellulase activity (2.2cm), followed by RP5 (2.1cm), RP2 and RP12 (2.0 cm). The isolates, RB6 and RP9, were identified as Bacillus amyloliquefaciens and Pseudomonas putida based on 16S rRNA sequence homology. Those isolates showing promising cellulase activity were tested for carbohydrate utilization, where it was found that organisms lacking cellulase activity could breakdown other sugars but not cellulose since it is a complex polymer. RB6 isolate showing highest cellulase activity did not use most of the sugars tested whereas RP11 isolate showing no cellulase activity has hydrolysed most of the sugars. Therefore from the results Bacillus amyloliquefaciens (Strain RB6) and Pseudomonas putida (Strain RP9), can be effectively utilized for the biodegradation of Cellulose of Sugarcane. Nevertheless further research may be directed for decomposition of sugarcane trash at field level. ','Cellulase activity, Bacillus, Psuedomonas, cellulose, carbohydrate utilization','RB6 isolate among Bacillus and RP9 among Pseudomonas were found to be elite cellulose degraders and their efficacy needs to be tested under field conditions for degradation of sugarcane trash and other agricultural wastes. During the study, it was observed that RP11 was utilizing most of the sugars but lacks cellulolytic activity and some of the isolates with cellulolytic activity could also utilize other carbon sources. Hence, a perfect correlation couldn’t be established between carbohydrate utilization pattern and cellulolytic activity.','INTRODUCTION\r\nSugarcane is the world’s largest crop by production. India is the second largest sugarcane producer in the globe next to Brazil (Anon, 2020). Sugarcane, an important cash crop leaves a residue of 10-15 tons/ hectare after harvest. This huge agro waste rich in cellulose is subjected to combustion traditionally by our farming community leading to untoward environmental hazards resulting in the emission of particulate matter and smoke, resulting in poor air quality and a problem for public health (Tsao et al., 2011; Wood, 1991; Thorburn et al., 2012; de Oliveira et al., 2015). Cellulose is a complex organic polysaccharide and the most abundant macromolecule on Earth. It is a linear chain of several 100’s to 1000’s of β-linked D-glucose units. Sugarcane waste is rich in cellulose and is one of the most complex molecules to degrade. Thus ecologically balanced alternative is highly needed to degrade this abundant complex molecule in an environmentally safe manner (Boopathy et al., 2001). \r\nOne of the best methods for the bio- degradation is usage of potential soil microbes (Alam et al., 2013). In nature many bacterial and fungal species of both aerobic and anaerobic nature have been reported with cellulolytic activities. Chaetomium, Fusarium, Myrothecium, Trichoderma, Penicillium, Aspergillus and so forth, are some of the reported fungal species responsible for cellulosic biomass hydrolysation (Milala et al., 2005). On the other hand cellulolytic bacterial species includes Trichonympha, Clostridium, Actinomycetes, Bacteroides succinogenes, Butyrivibrio fibrisolvens, Ruminococcus albus and Methanobrevibacter ruminantium (Schwarz, 2001). Kim et al., (2012) identified certain strains of Bacillus subtilis (SL9-9, C5-16, and S52-2) which were found effective in cellulolytic enzyme activities. They confirmed these strains by morphological, physiological, and biochemical and 16S rRNA gene analysis as Bacillus subtilis. Similarly Goel et al. (2019) were attempted to isolate the cellulolytic microbes isolated from a waste dumping site. Of the 28 microbial isolates, five isolates produced cellulase on LB agar plates containing 1% CMC. The PCS-22 isolate, representing Pseudomonas sp. has the ability to produce cellulase found effective in degrading the cellulolytic material. Liu et al. (2021) have studied extensively the sugarcane rhizosphere to examine the different bacterial communities. In their study they found that Pseudomonas and Bacillus species very predominant in the rhizoplane of the sugarcane. With this literature support the present investigation was carried out with the following objectives: i) To determine the cellulolytic activity of Bacillus and Pseudomonas isolated from the rhizoplane of sugarcane and ii) To correlate the carbohydrate utilization with cellulolytic activity of Bacillus and Pseudomonas species. \r\nMATERIALS AND METHODS\r\nThe present research was carried out by collecting different soil samples from the rhizoplane of the sugarcane crop in Visakhapatnam district. The details of the soil sample collection were mentioned in the Table 1. A total of 9 soil samples from different mandals of Visakhapatnam district were collected. These soil samples were subjected to serial dilution. The soil completely adhered to the root zone was considered for the isolation of the bacterial isolates. From the sugarcane rhizoplane approximately one gram of the soil sample was taken and it was subjected to serial dilution. Initially one gram of the soil was mixed in 10 ml of sterile distilled water thoroughly mixed using vortex shaker. One milliliter of this dissolved soil suspension was transferred in to 9ml of sterile distilled water in a test tube and thoroughly mixed using vortex shaker. Likewise, this step was continued six times till sixth level of dilution was achieved. From the sixth level diluted sample, 100µ1 suspension was transferred onto Hichrome bacillus agar and Psuedomonas agar base media, respectively. \r\nThe Hichrome bacillus media was supplemented with cetrinix supplement to promote Bacillus sp. growth. Similarly to obtain Pseudomonas, the Psuedomonas agar base is supplemented with Psuedomonas supplement 1 and 2 (Himedia). This Cetrimide Agar medium which is a selective medium for the species of Pseudomonas consists of a key component cetrimide which inhibits the growth of many bacteria including gram-positive bacteria and normal flora allowing the growth of only Pseudomonas species. To obtain uniform colonies in the Petri plate the 100µl suspension was uniformly spread with elbow spreader. The inoculated Petri plates were incubated at 37°C for 48 hrs. The colonies thus obtained were purified on nutrient agar and maintained for further studies. The colonies obtained on Hi chrome Bacillus agar and Pseudomonas agar base were designated as RB and RP isolates, respectively. To determine the cellulose activity these isolates were grown on carboxy methyl cellulose medium (CMC) with the following composition (Kasana et al., 2008). \r\nConfirmation of cellulose degrading ability of bacterial isolates was done by transferring a bacterial disc (5 mm) on the CMC medium and allowed to grow for 48 hours at 37°C. After 48 hours of inoculation these Petri plates were flooded with 5 ml of tincture iodine. Colonies showing clear zones were taken as positive cellulose-degrading bacterial colonies (Lu et al., 2004), and only these were taken for further study. Each isolate was tested for cellulolytic activity in three replicates. Cellulose-degrading potential of the positive isolates was also qualitatively estimated by determining the carbohydrate utilization pattern (Hendricks et al., 1995). The carbohydrate utilization kits are used for the estimation of carbohydrate utilization pattern by these isolates.\r\nIdentification of promising cellulase producing isolates. The bacterial isolates were multiplied in Luria Bertani broth overnight and the DNA was extracted according to the protocol given by Sambrook and Russell (2001). Amplification of 16 S rRNA genes of Bacillus isolates was carried out by PCR using universal primers, FGPS6-63-GGAGAGTTAGATCTTGGCTCAG and FGPL 132-38-CCCGGTTTCCCCATTCGG (Normand et al., 1992). The thermocyclic conditions included initial denaturation at 95°C for 3 min followed by 35 amplification cycles of 95°C for 1 min, 55°C for 1 min, 72°C for 2 min followed by final extension at 72°C for 3 min. \r\nPCR for amplification of Pseudomonas isolates was performed in a volume of 25 µl containing 1 µl of DNA template, 2.5 µl of 10X PCR buffer, 1 µl of each dNTP, 2mM of MgCl2, 1 µl of each primer and 0.5 U of Taq Polymerase. The 16S rDNA amplification was performed using the primers Psmn 289 (5’-GGTCTGAGAGGATGATCAGT-3’) and Psmn 1258 (5’-TTAGCTCCACCTCGCGGC-3’). PCR was performed on Master Cycler Nexus Gradient (Eppendorf, USA). PCR programme was 5 min at 95°C; 30 cycles of 30s at 94°C, 30s at 53°C, and 1 min at 72°C; and a final extension for 10 min at 72°C (Kim et al., 2013). \r\nThe PCR products were analyzed in 1.5 % agarose gel in 1X Tris-acetate EDTA, run for 90 min at 100 V, and the amplified products were excised and outsourced (Bioserve Biotechnologies (India) Pvt. Ltd., Hyderabad) for partial sequencing. Similarity of 16 S rRNA gene sequence was aligned using BLAST Programme of GenBank database (NCBI).\r\nRESULTS AND DISCUSSION\r\nPlating of serially diluted rhizoplane soil samples on Bacillus and Pseudomonas selective media resulted in distinct colonies, 48 hours after incubation. The colonies with rough, opaque, fuzzy white or slightly yellow with jagged edges were noticed on Hichrome Bacillus Agar medium and presumed as Bacillus species (Bai et al., 2013; Ming, 2008). Similarly colonies on Pseudomonas agar base were nearly colourless, but off-white, cream, and yellow colony pigmentation, with fluorescent colonies could be readily visualized under ultraviolet light with circular shape of 1-3 mm size, convex elevation, smooth to mucoid surface with greenish blue colour with opaque structure which were designated as Pseudomonas sp (Lowbury and Collins 1955). Based on the colony features a total of 24 Bacillus and 14 Pseudomonas isolates were isolated from rhizoplane of sugarcane genotypes. The details were furnished in the Table 2. The isolates obtained on Hichrome bacillus media were designated as RB series and on the Pseudomonas Agar base media as RP series. All these isolates were further sub-cultured on nutrient Agar media for cellulolytic studies. \r\nAfter 36 hours of inoculation of these isolates on the CMC medium, the cultures were flooded with Iodine solution and incubated for half an hour. The iodine specifically reacts with the degraded cellulose and forms a clear circular zone around the bacterial disc in Petri plate for cellulase producing isolates which forms the basis for the identification of the effective strains in degradation of the cellulose. The clear zone was measured using zone scale. The cellulolytic activity of the isolated strains was depicted in Table 1. \r\nBased on the results the bacterial isolates can be categorized in to three distinct groups based on their cellulolytic activity which were depicted in Table 3. The group having zone range between 1.00 to 1.50 \r\nwhich is an indication of lowest cellulolytic activity, the second group having zone range between 1.51 to 2.00 with medium range cellulolytic activity and the third group zone was having range above 2.01 and above with highest cellulolytic activity. Accordingly the isolates RB5, RB8, RB9, RB18, RB19, RB20 and RB23 of Bacillus sp and RP7, RP10, RP13 and RP14 of Pseudomonas sp. have the least cellulolytic activity, whereas RP1, RP8 and RP 11 doesn’t have any cellulolytic activity as they were within the range of 1.00 to 1.50. \r\nFrom the results it is evident that maximum number of isolates have produced a clear zone of 1.51 to 2.00 cm with moderate level of cellulase activity. RB1, RB2, RB3, RB4, RB11, RB12, RB13, RB14, RB16, RB17, RB21 and RB24 of Bacillus sp and RP2, RP3, RP4, RP6 and RP12 of Pseudomonas sp were within in this category. RB6, RB7, RB10, RB15 and RB22 of Bacillus sp and RP5 and RP9 of Pseudomonas sp have shown higher cellulolytic activity with clear zone of above 2.01. Among Bacillus sp RB6 have shown highest cellulolytic activity with a value of 2.23 followed by RB10 (2.13). Similarly, within the Pseudomonas sp RP9 has shown highest cellulolytic activity. Similar results were obtained by Sonia et al. (2013), who isolated cellulase producing bacteria from soil and identified potent cellulase producers as Pseudomonas fluorescens, Bacillus subtilis, E. coli and Serratia marcescens. In their study they found that among bacteria, Pseudomonas fluorescens as the best cellulase producer among the four, followed by Bacillus subtilis, E. coli and Serratia marscens. \r\nThough in the present investigation some of good cellulolytic activity bacterial isolates were identified, the identification was done purely based on the qualitative parameter. Eida et al. (2013); Maki et al. (2009) opined that qualitative methods are not sufficiently sensitive compared to quantitative tests due to the poor correlation between enzyme activity and the resulting hydrolysis zone diameter. Thus, to more accurately evaluate cellulolytic and hemicellulolytic microorganisms, an efficient plate-screening method is required.\r\nBacillus and Pseudomonas isolates showing promising cellulase activity viz., RB6, RB7, RB10, RB15, RB22 and RP5, RP9, were further tested for carbohydrate utilization in comparison to isolate with non-cellulolytic activity (RP11), and the results were depicted in the Table 4. From the Table 4 it is evident that isolate lacking cellulase activity, i.e., RP11 was able to breakdown almost all the sugars. On the other hand RB6 isolate showing highest cellulase activity did not use most of the sugars tested. Interestingly all the isolates have utilized Citrate and Esculin. The isolates RB7, RB15 and RP9 utilized maltose, fructose, dextrose, trehalose and sucrose. Though some of the isolates have good cellulolytic ability, some have utilized other carbohydrates as well. This perhaps needs further investigation into the factors that determine the preference of various isolates towards utilization of diverse sugars. Similar examination was conducted on Arthrobacter strains from industrial polluted soil by Lokesha et al. (2019). They found that the sugar utilization pattern revealed that the isolated strains were able to grow in a vast variety of sugar/carbohydrate source and this ability of Arthrobacter genus make them widely distributed and abundant in soils of harsh environmental conditions.\r\nCharacterization of promising cellulase producing isolates. The bacterial isolate obtained on Hichrome Bacillus agar was viz., RB6 identified as bacteria of the genera, Bacillus by amplification of 16S rDNA genes using universal primers, FGPS6-63 and FGPL 132-38 (Normand et al., 1992). Comparison of 16S rDNA amplified genes to sequences of Genbank has shown identity to B. amyloliquefaciens. A similar study was conducted by the Singh et al., (2013). During isolation and characterization of different bacteria from the rhinoceros dung, Out of 36 isolates, isolate no. 35 exhibited maximum enzyme activity of 0.079 U/mL and was selected for further identification by using conventional biochemical tests and phylogenetic analyses. This was a Gram-positive, spore forming bacterium with rod-shaped cells. The isolate was identified as Bacillus amyloliquefaciens SS35 based on nucleotide homology.\r\nThe bacterial isolates from Pseudomonas agar was identified as bacteria of the genus, Pseudomonas by amplifying the DNA with Pseudomonas specific primers, Psmn 289 and Psmn 1258. The electrophoresis of PCR amplified products had produced amplification confirming the bacteria as Pseudomonas species. The elite Pseudomonas species viz., RP9 was further identified to species level by partial sequencing of amplified products. The NCBI blast analysis revealed the identity of the elite Pseudomonas species as P. putida (KX758437). Tozakidis et al., (2016) while studying the effectiveness of cellulose activity of different Pseudomonas sp along with other bacteria they could establish Pseudomonas putida as host for the surface display of cellulases, and provided proof-of-concept for a fast and simple cellulose breakdown process at elevated temperatures.\r\n','V. Chandra Sekhar, P. Kishore Varma, B. Swapna, G. Vamsi Krishna and M. Bharatha Lakshmi (2022). Cellulolytic Activity of Bacillus and Pseudomonas species isolated from Sugarcane Rhizoplane and its Correlation with Carbohydrate Utilization. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 14(2): 240-246.'),(4829,'125','Effects of Replacing Palm Oil with Rapeseed Oil on Growth Performance in different Stages of Broiler Chicken','Sudharsan C.*, Senthil Murugan S., Mahesh S. Kajagar and Biju Chacko','44 Effects of Replacing Palm Oil with Rapeseed Oil on Growth Performance in Different Stages of Broiler Chicken Sudharsan C.pdf','',1,'Fats and oils vary in their fatty acid composition. Rapeseed oil (Brassica napus var.) has been known as a good source of α-linolenic acid compared to palm oil. Thus a study was carried out to evaluate the effect of incorporation of rapeseed oil in broiler ration on growth performance. A total of 160 day-old broilers (vencobb 400) were randomly allotted into four treatment groups (G1, G2, G3 and G4) having four replicates of ten chicks each. The basal diets (R1) were prepared to meet Bureau of Indian Standards (IS 1374; 2007) nutrient requirements, with vegetable oil (palm oil) included at the rate of 1.5, 3, and 4.5 per cent in pre-starter, starter and finisher ration, respectively. The experimental broiler rations R2, R3 and R4 was prepared with rapeseed oil replacing 25, 50 and 100 per cent of palm oil which included in R1, respectively. Growth performance of pre-starter, starter period was found to similar. During the finisher period feed conversion ratio and weight gain was significantly (P<0.05) influenced due to dietary replacement of palm oil with rapeseed oil. Body weight gain during finisher period was significantly higher in G3 and G4 groups compared to other groups and better feed conversion ratio (FCR) (P<0.01) was observed in G4 (100 per cent rapeseed oil) group and G3 (50 per cent rapeseed oil replaced group) in the basal diet. Replacement of rapeseed oil at 50 per cent and 100 per cent of palm oil in broiler ration during the finisher period can improve the growth performance of broilers.','Broiler chickens, Palm oil, Rapeseed oil, Growth performance','The assessment of dietary inclusion rapeseed oil replacing palm oil at 0, 25, 50 and 100 per cent in broiler feed revealed G3 and G4 group birds shown better weight gain and feed conversion ratio with similar feed intake during the finisher period. So it can be concluded that replacing palm oil with omega-3 rich rapeseed oil at 50 and 100 per cent in the finisher period is having better growth performance.','INTRODUCTION\r\nFat and oil are commonly used in poultry diets to increase the energy density as they yield 2.25 times more calories than carbohydrates and protein. Fat-supplemented diets increase the feed efficiency and profitability in poultry. Besides, oil improves the palatability of diets, reduces the dustiness of feeds and decreases the passage rate of feed through the intestinal tract of poultry, which gives more time for the adequate absorption of all nutrients present in the diet (Baião and Lara 2005). Poultry nutritionists invariably incorporates different sources of oil as an energy source to increase the palatability of feed, feed efficiency and for deposition of fat in broilers. The dietary supplementation vegetable oils alter the fatty acid profile of thigh and breast muscles broiler meat (Valavan et al., 2006; Abdulla et al. 2015) and dietary composition influences the nutritive quality of poultry meat. Rapeseed oil (Brassica napus var.) has been known as a good source of α-linolenic acid (ALA, C18:3 n-3), which can be readily converted to n-3 long chain polyunsaturated fatty acids (LC-PUFA) in poultry and can be included in vegetable oil blends along with sunflower oil, rice bran oil and palm oil to improve omega -3- fatty acid content of broiler ration (Valavan et al., 2006). Thus a study was proposed to find effects of replacing palm oil with rapeseed oil on growth performance in different stages of broiler chicken.\r\nMATERIALS AND METHOD\r\nExperimental details and data: This work was supported by the research grant of Kerala Veterinary and Animal Sciences University, Wayanad, Kerala, India. Experimental study was approved by Institutional animal ethical committee under 1271/GO/Re/S/09/CPCSEA- IAEC/COVAS/PKD/10/2019. The feeding experiment was conducted in Instructional Livestock Farm Complex, College of Veterinary and Animal Sciences, Kerala Veterinary and Animal Science University, Wayanad, Kerala from the period of January to February 2019.\r\nOne hundred sixty, day-old Vencobb 400 broiler chicks were purchased from local hatchery and were separated into four groups (G1, G2, G3 and G4) with four replicates with ten chicks. The experimental rations was prepared as per BIS (IS: 1374; 2007) recommendations. The basal diets (R1) were prepared with vegetable oil (palm oil) included at the rate of 1.5, 3.0, and 4.5 per cent in pre-starter, starter and finisher ration, respectively. The treatment rations R2, R3 and R4 was prepared with rapeseed oil replacing 25, 50 and 100 per cent of palm oil included in R1, respectively. The ingredient composition of the experimental ration of broiler pre-starter, starter and finisher diet are presented in Table 1, 2 and 3. The feed was prepared at feed mill facilities in Instructional Livestock Farm Complex (ILFC). Feed and water were supplied ad libitum up to 42nd day of its age.\r\nGrowth performance: Daily feed consumption was calculated by the amount of feed consumed by each bird by subtracting the leftover feed from total feed offered in a day. The live body weight of experimental birds were recorded at weekly intervals in morning hours after withdrawing feeders. Weight gain and body weight was calculated for all replicates from the data collected. Feed conversion ratio (FCR) was calculated by dividing the feed consumption by weight gain at different stage of growth.\r\nStatistical Analysis: The data obtained in this study were analyzed statistically as per the methods described by Snedecor and Cochran (1994) using the SPSS version 21.0 ® software.\r\nRESULT AND DISCUSSION\r\nA. Growth performance\r\nGrowth performance of pre-starter, starter and finisher period of broiler is presented in Table 4. During the finisher period feed conversion ratio and weight gain was significantly (P<0.01) influenced due to dietary replacement of palm oil with rapeseed oil in the present study. Body weight gain during finisher period was significantly higher in G3 group (1490.55g) and G4 (1481.74g) compared to other groups and better feed conversion ratio (FCR) (P<0.01) was observed in G4 (100 per cent rapeseed oil) group and G3 (50 per cent rapeseed oil replaced group) in the basal diet. Feeding palm oil and rapeseed oil at different proportions does not affect feed intake of birds between treatment groups. Similar to our findings, Wang et al. (2013); Khatun et al. (2016) concluded in their study that weight gain and FCR was in increasing trend with the increased levels of sunflower oil replacing palm oil \r\nwhen included at 6 per cent in the broiler ration during the finisher period. The research findings of other researchers were compared with different oils like rapeseed oil, sunflower oil, soyabean oil and palm oil and their combinations at 5 per cent (Ghasemi et al., 2015); 6 per cent (Khatun et al., 2016; Baighi and Nobakht 2017) not affected the feed intake during grower and finisher periods in broilers (Abbasi et al., 2021). The improved feed conversion efficiency and weight gain might be due to ratio of saturated and unsaturated fatty acids present in broiler diets. The higher saturated and unsaturated fatty acid ratio in diet needs a higher concentration of bile salts and pancreatic lipase, which are essential for fat digestion and absorption which affect their growth (Burlikowska et al., 2010). Hence, rapeseed oil containing diet, which has a higher ratio of UFA and SFA which leads to better fat digestibility (Nobakht et al., 2012).\r\n','Sudharsan C., Senthil Murugan S., Mahesh S. Kajagar and Biju Chacko (2022). Effects of Replacing Palm Oil with Rapeseed Oil on Growth Performance in Different Stages of Broiler Chicken. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 14(2): 247-250.'),(4830,'94','A Dual Band Stacked Microstrip Patch Antenna with Monopolar Radiation Pattern for WLAN and V2X Communication','Suman Kumar Raj* and Ahmad Rafiquee','3 A Dual Band Stacked Microstrip Patch Antenna with Monopolar Radiation Pattern for WLAN and V2X Communication Suman Kumar Raj.pdf','',1,'Adual-band, dual stacked microstrip patch antenna with Monopolar radiation pattern is proposed and analysed in this paper. An Annulus, TSAR and two sets of conductive vias are introduced into the structure to broaden the bandwidth and to drastically increase the antenna-gain. The realised impedance bandwidths are from 2.16 to 2.58 GHz in the low band and from 5.43 to 6.09 GHz in the high band, separately. The corresponding gains at low frequency band ranges from 7.1dBi to 7.8dBi and at high frequency band ranges from 8 to 9.7dBi. In addition, the proposed antenna has a low-profile structure, which can be easily placed on the top of a vehicle. In conjunction with these merits, the proposed design is very suitable for wireless local area network (2.4–2.48 GHz and 5.75–5.825 GHz), Satellite positioning system using S-band of NavIC (2483.50 – 2500.00MHz) and Vehicle to everything (5.85–5.925GHz) communications.','Dual-band, V2X Communication, DSRC, Satellite positioning system (SPS), Indian Regional Navigation Satellite System (IRNSS)','-','-','-'),(4831,'125','Analysis of Physico-Chemical Properties of Fortified Beverage during Storage','R. Navarasam*, Ayyavoo Preamnath Manoharan, V. Appa Rao, T.R. Pugazhenthi and K. Senthilkumar','45 Analysis of Physico-Chemical Properties of Fortified Beverage during Storage R. Navarasam.pdf','',1,'The research was undertaken to study the physico-chemical properties of fortified beverage during the storage period. Micronutrient deficiency referred to as ‘Hidden hunger’ is a huge burden in terms of social, health and economic aspects. Although fruit and vegetables are capable of sufficing this need, it is difficult for the Indian population to diversify the diet on a regular basis. Moreover, No single food contains all of the vitamins and minerals we need and, therefore, a balanced and varied diet is necessary for an adequate intake of all micronutrients. To combat hidden hunger, fortified beverage is developed. Fortified beverage was prepared by incorporating the fortificants from natural source namely carrot juice (15%), moringa juice (5%), irradiated mushroom juice (6%), dates juice (2%) and seaweed juice (1%) into skim milk. Carrots are good source of beta carotene. Based on sensory analysis sugar level was optimized and added into fortified beverage. The changes in the physico-chemical properties such as pH, titratable acidy, total soluble solids, total solids and viscosity of fortified beverage were analyzed during the storage period of 0, 30, 60, 90, 120th day at ambient temperature. Statistical analysis revealed that there was a highly significant difference between the control (unfortified beverage) and treated (fortified beverage) samples. From the results obtained, the shelf life of the fortified beverage was found to be 120 days.','Fortified beverage, Micro-nutrients, Natural resources, Physico-chemical properties, Storage study','This research work found out the way for the effective utilization of natural resources using staple food. The fortificants / ingredients used in this study were of natural origin and no artificial agents were added. The fortification technology applied is the recent and cost effective method to satisfy the need of ultimate consumer. The micro-nutrients such as vitamins and minerals fortified milk based beverage have been delivered positive results from this research. The nutritionals aspect of fortified beverage was greater than the unfortified beverage. From the storage study the developed fortified beverage could be stored for more than five months at ambient temperature without loss in their quality.','INTRODUCTION\r\nAround the world, it is estimated that more than two billion people suffer from ‘hidden hunger’ or micronutrient deficiency (Abeshu and Geleta, 2016) with nearly half living in India. It is reported that widespread (>80% total Indian population) risk of deficiencies in calcium, vitamin A, vitamin B12, folate with more localized deficiencies (<25% population) in iron, zinc, and vitamin B6. Micronutrients comprised of vitamins and minerals which are required in small quantities to ensure normal metabolism, growth and physical well‐being (Lukaski, 2004). As fruits and vegetables are good sources of many essential micronutrients that are under consumed, including iron, dietary fiber, vitamin C, vitamin A, folate (folic acid), calcium, zinc etc. they could be supplement to alleviate the micronutrient-malnutrition. Beta carotene is precursor of vitamin A which is regarded as important for combating vitamin A deficiency (VAD) (Fratianni et al. 2010). Carrot juice is rich in functional food components such as vitamins (A, D, B, E, C, and K) and minerals, (calcium, potassium, phosphorus, sodium, and iron). It has been noted that 100 g of carrot contains between 6 mg and 15 mg of carotenoids, mainly β-carotene (2-10 mg). Analysis of Moringa juice has revealed that the level of provitamin A in carrot made a positive impact on the moringa juice by increasing the total amount of the provitamin A to 6.64 g/100 g (Out et al., 2013). Date consumption is an important source of supplying vitamin and mineral in a balanced nutrition regime (Al-Shahib and Marshall 2003). Chemical composition showed that the flesh of dates has good nutritional value, based on its dietary fibers, minerals, vitamins, natural antioxidants, and other bioactive compounds (Elleuch et al., 2008).\r\nMost importantly, People in the developing countries like India could not afford to diversify their diet with adequate amounts of fruits, vegetables and animal sources of food containing micronutrients and hence deficiencies are inevitable also micronutrient deficiencies are unnoticed within the community. \r\nOn the other hand, not all the fruits and vegetables are fully processed and properly utilized due to the lack of processing techniques and unavailability of processing equipment. Since, India is the number one milk producer (198.4 million tonnes) and second largest producer of fruits and vegetables (132.03 million metric tonnes), estimated in 2019-2020 all over country and so milk based fortified beverage was developed with fruits and vegetables to meet out the consumer demand as well as effective utilization of natural resources. Keeping with all these needs, the research was carried out to develop a long-lasting fortified beverage with natural sources and the changes in physico-chemical properties such as pH, titratable acidity, total soluble solids, total solids and viscosity of fortified beverage during their storage also were analyzed to provide the knowledge of product quality and consumer acceptability.\r\nMATERIAL AND METHODS\r\nA. Materials \r\nSkim milk (0.5% fat and 8.7% SNF), carrot juice (15%), moringa juice (5%), irradiated mushroom juice (6%), dates juice (2%) and seaweed juice (1%) were the core ingredients of fortified beverage. There were no chemicals or synthetic agents added during preparation and preservation of fortified beverage. The utensils and glasswares used were thoroughly sterilized before and after the production of fortified beverage. The flowchart for the preparation of fortified beverage is given in the Fig. 1 and Fig. 2. differentiates the fortified and unfortified beverage.\r\nB. Methodology\r\nC. Physico-chemical properties of fortified beverage \r\n(i) pH. pH meter was calibrated with commercial buffer solutions at pH 9.1 and 4.0 before measurement. pH meter was inserted in the sample and pH was recorded after stabilization (AOAC, 2000).\r\n(ii) Titratable acidity. Titratable acidity of the fortified beverage was determined by visual titration method (Ranganna, 1986) and expressed in percentage.\r\n(iii) Total soluble solids. The total soluble solids (TSS) content of fortified beverage was determined at ambient temperature (28±2°C) by digital Refractometer. Total soluble solids were expressed in oBrix (Ranganna, 1986).\r\n(iv) Total solids. The total solid content (%) of fortified beverage was calculated by (AOAC, 2006) using the formula:\r\n\"Total Solids \" (\"%\" )\" = 100-Moisture content\" \r\n(v) Viscosity. Viscosity of the fortified beverage was measured with a Rotational Viscometer using Spindle #3 (Ahlawat, 2007).\r\n(vi) Statistical Analysis. The data collected on various parameters were analyzed as per the standard method described by Snedecor and Cochran (1994). The analysis of variance (two-way ANOVA) was used to study the significant difference by IBM SPSS® 20.0.\r\nRESULTS AND DISCUSSION\r\nA. pH\r\nThe fortified beverage contained the average pH values on storage period of 0, 30, 60, 90 and 120th day were 6.65, 6.62, 6.60, 6.59 and 5.95 and the corresponding values for fortified beverages were 6.53, 6.48, 6.48, 6.35 and 6.33 respectively. The figure 3.shows the pH values of fortified beverage and control during storage period. From the figure, it was understood that pH of both the control and fortified beverage were decreased during the storage period under ambient temperature. The reduction in the pH was not affect the product quality and consumer acceptance as well till the end of storage period. The result was on par with Shukla et al. (2018) who had studied the sterilized milk based mango beverage and found out that the decrease in pH throughout the storage studies.\r\nB. Titratable acidity\r\nThe mean titratable acidity of fortified beverage and control on storage period is represented in figure 4. The mean±SE titratable acidity values of fortified beverage and control during storage of 0 day were 0.144±0.000 and 0.140±0.000; 30th day were 0.146±0.000 and 0.143±0.000; 60th day were 0.148±0.000 and 0.145±0.000; 90th were day 0.153±0.000 and 0.150±0.000 and 120th day were 0.156±0.000 and 0.154±0.000 respectively. From the data obtained from analysis, it may be noticed that there was gradual increase of titratable acidity in both fortified beverage and control sample and thus the increase in acidity was directly proportional with storage days. Shukla et al. (2018); Shukla et al. (2003) were observed the increase in acidity of sterilized milk based beverage throughout the storage studies.\r\nC. Total soluble solids (TSS)\r\nThe figure 5.represents the average TSS values of fortified beverage and control during storage interval of 0, 3, 60, 90 and 120 days. The mean TSS values of control and fortified beverage increased gradually during storage period. The average values of fortified beverage increased from 16.87 to 18.90 storage periods of 120 days and the corresponding values for control were form 15.53 to 17.03. It was found that the increase in storage period increases TSS values of fortified beverage and control sample. The statistical analysis revealed that there was a highly significant difference between the fortified beverage and control over the storage period of 120 days at ambient temperature. The increasing trend of total soluble solids in the storage of functional beverage was reported by Randhawa et al. (2013).\r\nD. Total solids\r\nThe mean±SE total solids of control and fortified beverages during storage intervals of 0, 30, 60, 90 and 120th day obtained were 9.82±0.10 and 13.30±0.11; 9.76±0.04 and 13.23±0.08; 9.56±0.042 and 13.30±0.05; 9.73±0.05, 13.03±0.042; and 9.37±0.042 and 12.78±0.05 respectively. Figure 6.shows the average total solids of control and fortified beverages during storage period at ambient temperature. From the data analysis, it was clearly understood that decrease in the total solids of fortified beverage was indirectly proportional to the successive storage days. The similar effect was obtained by Mittal and Bajwa (2014).\r\nFig. 7 differentiates the average viscosity of control and fortified beverages during storage period at ambient temperature. The average viscosity of control and fortified beverages during storage intervals of 0, 30, 60, 90 and 120th day obtained were 1.6 and 1.67; 1.58 and 1.61; 1.21 and 1.53; 1.16 and 1.51 and 1.07 and 1.29 respectively. Statistically it was understood that there was significant difference found between the control and fortified beverage among the successive intervals of storage period. The result was in accordance with Shukla et al. (2018); Mittal and Bajwa (2014) who were found out the decrease in viscosity indirectly proportional with the successive storage intervals.\r\n','R. Navarasam, Ayyavoo Preamnath Manoharan, V. Appa Rao, T.R.Pugazhenthi, K. Senthilkumar (2022). Analysis of Physico-Chemical Properties of Fortified Beverage During Storage. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 14(2): 251-254.'),(4832,'125','The Influence of INM on Yield and Growth under Indian Climatic conditions of Winter Wheat (Triticum aestivum L. emend. Flori & Paol)','Sonali Kokale, Rangrao Kokale, Paritosh Nath*, Atin Kumar, Neha Saini and Awaneesh Kumar','46 The Influence of INM on Yield and Growth under Indian Climatic conditions of Winter Wheat _Triticum aestivum L. emend. Flori & Paol_ Paritosh Nath.pdf','',1,'Wheat, a crop that is produced in many regions of the nation throughout the winter, is the backbone of Indian cuisine. A long-term research in a number of locations has found that since soil is another supplier of nourishment, it should be safeguarded against a variety of exterior elements, including excessive fertilizer usage. Aside from natural resource deterioration and biotic-abiotic stress, nutrient scarcity is a key factor in yield loss, productivity decrease, and net profit reduction. This brief review article examines previous research and studies on the role of various micro and macronutrients in wheat crops, and offers a concise analysis of the effects of INM (Integrated Nutrient Management) on several wheat crop development and production characteristics, as well as their nutritional absorption rate, by affecting the soil system\'s nutrient status. According to the research, INM, which comprises it\'s use synthetic chemicals through collaboration using pure natural fertilizers & biological inputs, is essential to improve the soil\'s nutritional quality. INM increases the plant\'s nutrient absorption rate, which impacts the nitrogen supply in the structure of soils. Because The soil is primary resource for nutrition’s, any degradation in soil quality may lead to a reduction in crop yield. As a consequence, in order to enhance output while simultaneously conserving the environment, it is necessary to take suitable and realistic methods to decrease its influence in wheat cultivation.','Wheat, Yield, Organic Manures, Growth, chemical Fertilizers, Integrated Nutrient Management (INM) are all words that come to mind when thinking about wheat','Finally, the review research emphasizes the relevance of wheat Integrated Nutrient Management, as well as organic and inorganic nutrient management strategies, and the role of sources. Due to widespread nutrient deficit or toxicity, soil health is rapidly deteriorating. As a consequence of poor nutrient use, cereal crops have low yield and profitability. Inorganic fertilizer used in conjunction with widely accessible natural sources has a transformational effect on soil health, improving soil fertility, productivity, and quality while reducing inorganic fertilizer\'s environmental impact. INM are the tools that provide great alternatives and cost effective ways to provide crops to sufficient quantities among most major nutrients and minor nutrients while also reducing the use of synthetic fertilizers, creating beneficial soil physio-chemical environments as well as a good environment, removing constraint, ensuring long-term balanced soil nutrient, generating an optimal amount for sustaining intended agricultural yields, and finally finding a secured method. Wheat yield qualities, considerably greater yield, growth metrics, and disease management were all improved with the use ofa mix of chemical as well as natural source. Thus, using Integrated nutrient management methods such as macro nutrients, secondary nutrients, and minor nutrients, organic fertilizers, biofertilizers, and soil-amendments into wheat crop cultivation improves fertility of the soil and accelerates nutrient absorption, consequently increasing crop development and production qualities as well as food quality. India is the world\'s second-largest nation by population, behind China. So we won\'t be able to feed our Indian people by organic farming. The use of pure organic manures in farms is good, but it is a lengthy procedure that yields modest yields after roughly 4-5 years. Furthermore, organic manures are heavy and need professional labor. Instead of organic manures, pure chemical or inorganic fertilizers provide better results with higher yields in less time, but they have a negative influence on the soil\'s physical and biological state. Finally, the data indicated that Integrated Nutrition Management (INM) might be one of the feasible wheat nutrition management options in India. Pure chemical or inorganic fertilizers, instead of organic manures, produce higher yields in less time, but they have a negative influence on the soil\'s physiological and biologic health. Finally, the data indicated that one of the most successful wheat nutrition management systems in India is Integrated Nutrition Management (INM). Agriculture experts and farmers should concentrate on a simple INM (integrated nutrient management) technique that is a viable option, as well as a cost-effective approach that farmers can easily implement, and an environmentally friendly methodology that reduces fertilizer use and can produce higher yields with better quality traits while maintaining a profitable profit margin.','INTRODUCTION\r\nWheat (Triticum aestivum L.) is an important staple food crop that is also known as the \"King of Cereals\" or \"Staff of Life.\" Wheat originated in Turkey, in South Western Asia. The genus Triticum belongs to the Poaceae or Gramineae family, and it is a major agronomic crop. Flour, pasta, pastry, semolina, crumpets, flake, chapati, biscuits, and a range of other foods are made from wheat. It is the most essential staple food on the planet, accounting for around 35% of all food eaten by the global population (Mohammadi Joo et al., 2015). It is the world\'s top cereal in terms of area and production, & it’s provides the sufficient amount of caloric and protein in the diet of humans than any other cereal. Wheat has a protein content of 12-13 percent. Gluten makes up 75-85% of the protein in wheat, which is important to backers. The fat content of wheat is 1.5 percent (Book Essentials of Agriculture, 1st Edition, 2018).\r\nNatural resources values are steadily growing as a result of current technical advancements & worldwide population growth. As a result, there will come a day when those nations possessing abandoned agricultural goods, as well as optimal usage of these resources, will be the richest countries in this world (Saleem et. al., 2021). The world produces wheat in at least 43 countries. India, Indonesia, China, Thailand, and the United States of America are the primary top wheat-growing nations, producing 647 million tons of wheat on 218 million hectare and a output of 2960 kilograms per hectare (FAO, 2012). With a total output of 93.50 million tonnes, India has the greatest wheat-growing acreage (30.23 mha), followed by China. In India, the average wheat yield per hectare is just 3.3 tonnes per hectare. Around 12% of the world\'s wheat is produced in India (Book Essentials of Agriculture, 1st Edition, 2018). The primary wheat-growing states in India are UP, PB, MP, HR, RJ, BR, GJ, MH, UK, and HP. Despite having the largest wheat acreage and production, Punjab has the highest average yield per hectare (5090 kg/ha), followed by Haryana (4412 kg/ha), with India\'s entire wheat output of 99.70 million tonnes on 29.58 million hectares yielding 3371 kg/ha. (Agristatglance, 2018). The data on Wheat: Area, Production, and Yield in Major Producing States in 2016-17 and 2017-18, as well as coverage under irrigation is shown in Table 1.\r\nIndia\'s wheat consumption is predicted to rise to 105 million to 109 million tonnes by 2020, up from 72 million tonnes currently produced (Jince). Joy, Mary et al., 2018). Triticum aestivum (common bread wheat, 2n=42), Triticum durum (macaroni or durum wheat, 2n=28), and Triticum dicoccum (emmer wheat, 2n=28) are the only economically significant wheat species in India. Wheat is planted at the beginning of the Rabi cycle and harvested at the start of the Kharif cycle. Climate changes may affect the timing of planting, growth, and harvesting. Based on agro - climatic conditions, India is classified into 6 (six) wheat-cultivating regions or zones. Southern Hill Zone, Peninsular Zone, North-Western Plains Zone, Central Zone, Northern Hill Zone, and North-Eastern Plains Zone are the different types of zones. The North-Western Plains Zone produces the most wheat, accounting for around 45 percent of total wheat acreage in India (Vimlesh, 2010). The data regarding to Wheat agro-climatic zone in India is as shown in Table 2. Because each agro-climatic zone has different growing seasons, the vegetative and reproductive phases change, resulting in differences in potential yield. Wheat consumption is predicted to climb in the next decades, especially in emerging nations to feed a growing population, and wheat will continue to account for a large amount of human energy needs in 2050 as a preferred diet (EIAR).\r\nINM (Integrated Nutrient Management: The use of a mix of natural organic manures, inorganic synthetic fertilizers, and chemicals helps to maintain the environment while enhancing soil output (Nambiar and Abrol, 1992). Individual or combination chemical fertilizer use, as well as optimum and reasonable organic fertilizer use, provide and solve the issue of growing chemical fertilizer costs and loss of soil productivity and fertility. Proper management, a wider range of yields, the right planting time, water (irrigation), and fertilizer control may all assist to boost production and productivity. Crop productivity and nutritional security can only be raised vertically by increasing and enhancing the use of both organic and inorganic sources (Kale and Bano, 1986; Srivastava, 1994). Fertilizers are a crucial component of improvement of crop’s yields and productivity of the soil. When it comes to enhancing crop yields, using the right quantity of fertilizer is crucial (Manpreet, 2018). Implementing an advanced agricultural plan will fulfill the needs of a rising population, but it will need a lot of energy, which will raise input prices and pose environmental dangers. The rising usage of inorganic sources to boost productivity has long been recognized. Uncontrolled fertilizer usage, on the other hand, may have negative consequences for soil health, ecology, and other natural resources; also, the expensive cost of manure prevents its widespread application. In INM, organic fertilizers are utilized to help address soil nutritional deficiencies. Adding organic nutrients to soil improves its physical, chemical, and biological characteristics while also providing a conducive environment for seed germination. Chemical fertilizers are expensive and depend on nonrenewable resources that are limited. Combining the use of inorganic fertilizers with indigenous sources such as farmyard manure should be encouraged in order to improve Physicochemical & psychological elements from the soils fertility & productivity (Ezekiel, 2010). With all crops, soil contains free-living microorganisms capable of nitrogen fixation. The positive impact of Azotobacter on plants is responsible for the formation of complex chemicals such as vitamin B3 (nicotinic acid), vitamin B6 (pyridoxine), vitamin H or B7 (biotin), and vitamin B1 (thiamine), Gibberellins, indole acetic acid, and other growth-promoting hormones increase seed germination and create optimal environmental conditions for plant development. Many bacteria occur in soil that increase the amount of phosphorus [PO4(3-)] available to plants by mineralizing inorganic P2O5 (phosphorus) and converting it to organic forms that are readily accessible to plants (Manpreet, 2018). Nitrogen is an important component of agricultural production. It is involved in the metabolism of nucleotides, enzymes, vitamins, and hormones. The absorption of potassium, phosphorus, and other minerals is aided by nitrogen. Phosphorus is required for seedling establishment as well as early development and growth. Sulphur encourages root growth, seed formation, and chlorophyll production in plants (Manpreet, 2018). An illustration of INM resources and their impact on productivity of soil is shown in Fig. 1.The Impact of Integrated Nutrient Management On Uptake of nutrients: The uptake of nutrients is greater when PSB and vermicompost are coupled with fertilizers than when fertilizers or vermicompost are applied alone (Datt et al., 2003). When 75 percent RDF+ Vermicompost @ 1tn/ha + PSB was applied, NPK absorption was highest (Datt et al., 2003). The Bulk density (BD) (0 to 15 cm) ranged between 1.29 - 1.38 Mg m-3 according to the combined results from multiple treatments of combinations (Jyoti Bangre et al., 2021). The crop\'s Nitrogen (N), Phosphorous (P), and Potasium (K) absorption was substantially greater when worm-manure (VC) and P-solubilizing biofertilizer (PSB) were coupled to the fertilizer dose than when fertilizers were used alone or when vermicompost was used alone. The crop absorbed the most NPK with 75 percent NPK + vermi-compost @ 1t ha-1 + Phosphate solubilizing bacteria (PSB) and 100 percent NPK + vermi-compost @ 1ton/ha + Phosphate solubilizing bacteria (PSB). Increased food supply and a An extensive root system resulted In improved Nutrients absorption and water uptake, resulting in improved nutritional uptake (Devi et al., 2011). The solubilization of native micro-macronutrients and other intermediate organic compounds created by the breakdown of biological waste, as well as their mobilization and accumulation in various areas of plant crops, may be linked to the high nutrient absorption rate of organic manures (Mitra et al., 2010). When S+B+FYM and 75 percent NPK are applied together, the higher absorption might be ascribed to the additional natural nutrient release out of the ground & transportation through the plants bodies. Similarly, across both years, utilizing S (sulphur), B (boron) or Farm yard manure (FYM) with 100 percent RDF (150:60:60 kg/ha NPK) improved overall nutrient absorption (Reena et al., 2017). The solubilization of organic acids in farmyard manure assists in the release of P2O5 (phosphorus), bacterial growth stimulation, and plant root system development, all of which lead to greater phosphorus absorption by plants. When used in combination with inorganic phosphorus, FYM and PSB assist to improve phosphorus availability in the soil for crop planting. The available phosphorus increases by giving phosphorus via manure rather than eliminating the plant (Singh et al., 2008). This could be due to yield characteristics, as wheat yield increased when S, B, and FYM were used alone with 150:60:60 kg/ha NPK and combined with 75 percent RDF, and grain and straw nutrient content increased when S, B, and FYM were used with chemical fertilizers or alone conjugation of75 percent NPK. Nutrients absorption is influenced by nutrient concentration and production. The results of Natan and Anurag support this view (2011). Organic acids produced by the decomposition of organic manure liberate potassium from potassium-bearing minerals, resulting in increased potassium availability (Swarkar et al., 2013). The addition of zinc to organic resources may improve nutrient consumption efficiency (Meena et al., 2006). Wheat\'s sulphur absorption decreased when fertilizer supply levels varied. The availability of sulphur declined even more when the nutrient supply rate was reduced to 50% and the seed was infected with azotobacter and/or PSB (Sharma et al., 2013). Data on the impact of INM on nutrient absorption in a nutshell is display in Table 3.\r\nIntegrated Nutrient Management\'s Impact on Growth Parameters: Reproductive traits are influenced by both inorganic and natural biological resources (Joy et al., 2018). 90 days after showing, wheat treated with nitrogen-120, phosphorous-60, potassium-40, farmyard manure-10, and zinc 25 kg/ha generated the largest plant height (86.43cm) and the most tillers per plant (7.33) (Sangam et al., 2017). The application of 100 percent NPK and FYM changed the 10 ton/ha growth parameter considerably (Arvind et al., 2006; Singh et al., 2008). Increased photosynthate synthesis and nutrient availability result in better yield and biomass production, as indicated by more effective tillers per plant and higher output per plant (Kaur et al., 2018; Khan and Singh, 2011; Kanchroo and Razdan, 2006; Singh et al., 2018; Ahmad et al., 2007). Plant height is maximized 30 days after planting by administering 100% of the needed fertilizer dosage, and at harvest stage by adding 75% NPK, vermicompost @ 2.5ton/hector, and azotobacter (Kaur et al., 2018). \r\nNitrogen may lead to more productive tillers and a grain weight of 1000 grains, resulting in increased output (Singh et al., 2011). Applying ten tons of FYM per hectare with crop residues, the proper fertilizer dosage, and 80 percent of mineral fertilizer dose considerably boosted grain yield, grain per year, and thousand-grain weight (Kler et al., 2007). More than FYM alone, the combination of FYM with rice residue enhanced wheat development and yield parameters (Davari et al., 2012). In addition to nutrients, organic manures include a microbial population and growth-promoting chemicals that aid in the increase of enzymatic activities and crop expansion or growth. Biofertilizers are tiny organisms that help plants grow.\r\nThe Influence of INM on Yield and Yield Attributing Characteristics: Nitrogen is the most important essential component for crop development and output enhancement. The data show that mixing organic matter with chemical fertilizers increases crop biomass and grain yields (Khan et al., 2007). When VC and P-solubilizing biofertilizer were administered combined, DMA, no. of effective tillers, grains spike-1, and Test wt. increased. Vermicompost with or without Phosphate solubilizing bacteria (PSB) biofertilizer, in conjunction with various dosages of fertilizers, yielded considerably better grain and biological yields than fertilizer treatment alone. The maximum grain yield and biological yield (4.89 ton/ha) were obtained with 100 percent NPK + vc @ 1ton/ha + Biofertilizer and 75 percent NPK + vc @ 1ton/ha + Biofertilizer. 100 percent Recommended Dose of Fertilizer + vc @ 1ton/ha + PSB, 75 percent RDF + vermicompost @ 1t/ha + PSB, 75 percent RDF + vermicompost @ 1t/ha + PSB, 75 percent NPK + vc @ 1ton/ha + P-Solubilizing Biofertilizer, 75 percent NPK + vc @ 1ton/hectare + PSB, 75 percent NPK+ vc @ 1ton/hectare + PSB (Devi et al., 2011). The proper application of nitrogen is recognized as a crucial component in achieving several bumper wheat harvests. According to studies, a high nitrogen supply promotes the conversion of carbohydrates to proteins, which boosts protoplasm formation (Brady and Weil, 2002). Because N is an essential component of all proteins, it is involved in all phases of plant growth. The combination of NPK and Azolla compost boosted wheat yield the greatest (27.015%), followed by NPK and cow dung (24.42%) (Bharati et al., 2017). The number of tillers m-2 rose dramatically when PSB was combined with natural manures or other compositions. These results are similar to those of (Kumar et al., 1999), who discovered that inoculating with Azotobacter chrococcum greatly enhanced the number of plants per metre row (Afzal et al., 2005). When weighing the pros and cons of various therapies, The prescribed dosage of fertilizers (RDF) combined with Farmyard Mannure, biofertilizer, & Zn generated maximum yields of 50.39 and 52.73 qt/hectare in 2007-2008 and 2008-2009 respectively, whereas RDF + FYM + BF yielded 49.28 qt/ha in 2007-08 and 51.22 qt/ha in 2008-09. It\'s unsurprising that increasing the quantity of nitrogen sprayed increased wheat grain yield (Jena et al., 1998). Increasing N levels boosted grain output by enhancing the amplitude of yield characteristics. Grain yields increased when the amount of N was increased and the yield characteristic was elevated. According to one research, the increase in yield contributing characteristics was attributed to higher nutrition or nitrogen intake, which led in greater dry material creation and transport to the abyss (Dalal and Dixit, 1987). Wheat tillers and the test weight was found to be affected significantly by the Integrated Nutrient Management (INM). The treatment (75 percent RDF + 10 t FYM ha-1) had the greatest crop height (78 centimeters), active tiller number (82.77), and average weight (test weight) (33.30 gram 1000 per seeds) of all the treatments. INM treatments that contribute N, as well as another nutrients and development-stimulating chemicals, may explain the rise in production contributing characteristics generated by organic manure (FYM 10 tonnes per hectare) (TejAlben et al., 2017). Using sophisticated agricultural practices and cultivars, wheat yield may be boosted (Sadat et al., 2010). Increased N (nitrogen) doses had a discernible impact on crop yield, with the greatest crop-grain output (yield) (3.91 ton/ha) at 150 Nitrogen kilogram per hectare (3.91 tonne per hacter), however N (nitrogen) doses over 100 kg N ha-1 had little effect on grain yield ha-1 (Maqsood et al., 2000). Ayoub went on to say that nitrogen fertilizer greatly increased grain output (Ayoub et al., 1994). When compared to the control Nitrogen-120 kilogram per hectare, Phosphorous-60 kilogram per hectare (RDF) i.e. T1 [grain and straw yields were 3209 kg per ha and 4223 kg per ha], the implementation of N-150 kg/ha, P-75 kg/ha + Farm yard manure @ 5 tonne per hacter + Azotobacter Biofertilizer + Phosphate Solubilizing Bacteria (Recommended Dose Of Fertilizer). It could also be largely a result of natural fertilizer (farmyard manure), BF, & syntheticfertilizer containing S in sufficient amounts, which plays a critical role in the degradation and incredibly simple release of various nutrient content as well as their accumulation through the plant, Thus, dry matter production is increased & also its absorption of various parts of the crop, their yield and crop growth attributes, and that in turn contrives (Desai et al., 2015). Dry matter accumulation, test weights, ineffective tillers, grain/spike, and grain /spike all rose with the combined application of inorganic and organic fertilizers (Mary et al., 2018).\r\nIntegrated Nutrient Management\'s Impact on Soil Productivity: In Integrated Nutrient Management, chemical fertilizers are combined with organic manure and input via the biological process (Jaga and Upadhya 2013). Organic matter has improved nutrient availability and soil water storage capacity, resulting in a more favorable soil environment for plants. Soil organic matter enhances soil porosity, apparent density, and water holding capacity, creating a favorable physical environment for the soil (Benbi and Nieder, 2003). By mixing vermicompost + PSB with fertilizer levels, the levels of Nitrogen, Phosphorous, and Potassium in the soil were considerably enhanced. Harvesting of wheat, available NPK levels were found to be highest when 100 percent NPK (RDF) + vermi-compost @ 1 tonne per hectare + Phosphate Solubilizing Bacteria and 75 percent NPK (RDF) + vermi-compost @ 1 tonne per hectare + Phosphate Solubilizing Bacteria were used, and lowest when controls were used (Devi et al., 2011). Increased plant nutrient absorption, increased OC content in the soil, and enhanced Nitrogen, Phosphorus, Potassium status in the soil have all been observed (Khan et al., 2007). Manure application in a particular year benefits not only the current season but also the next season. In a field experiment, nitrogen accessibility was 40% from manures & 15% from composts in the 1st year of treatment, & 18% from manure and 8% from composting in the second year of treatment, improving crop bio-mass and grain yield (Sarwar et al., 2007). Chemical fertilizers, farmyard manure, organic manure, and biofertilizers were used in combination to increase soil organic matter content, infiltration rate, moisture retention capacity, and aggregate stability of soil (Saha et al., 2010). Continuous use of organic fertilizers increases the effectiveness of chemical fertilizers in the soil by increasing soil microbial activity and adding organic soil colloids with a high nutrient retention surface area, which increased organic matter in the soil from 28.6 percent to 35.7 percent over a year of continuous application of farmyard manure (Manna et al., 2005). By combining chemical and organic fertilizers, it may be feasible to compensate for a lack of certain main (secondary) and minor nutrients in areas that have previously solely received synthetic fertilizers (Chand et al., 2006). Their addition to soil has created a soil environment that promotes humic acid production, enhanced soil microbial activity, and increased soil organic carbon content (Bajpai et al., 2006). Adding natural fertilizer (10 tonne Farm yard manure) to fertilizer concentrations dramatically boosted nutrient absorption by wheat crops and raised OC (organic carbon), Nitrogen, Phosphate, and Potassium levels as compared to chemical fertilizer alone. The application of worm compost and Biofertilizer, which increase the life of soil microorganisms, has improved the soil\'s Nitrogen, Phosphorus, and Potassium levels (Pandey et al., 2009).\r\n','Sonali Kokale, Rangrao Kokale, Paritosh Nath, Atin Kumar, Neha Saini and Awaneesh Kumar (2022). The Influence of INM on Yield and Growth Under Indian Climatic Conditions of Winter Wheat (Triticum aestivum L. emend. Flori & Paol). Biological Forum – An International Journal, 14(2): 255-262.'),(4833,'125','Influence of Irrigation Systems and Planting Dates on Tubers Weight of different Grade Yield of Potato (Solanum tuberosum L.)','Mukesh Kumar, Arun Kumar Bhatia, Surender Kumar*, Parveen Kumar, Vishal Atwal and Sunil Kumar','47 Influence of Irrigation Systems and Planting Dates on Tubers Weight of different Grade Yield of Potato _Solanum tuberosum L._ Mukesh Kumar.pdf','',1,'Among different irrigation systems, micro-sprinkler irrigation (I2) was significantly enhance tubers weight of different grade yield of Potato acre1 i.e. >25-50 g (7.81 & 7.53q), >50-75 g (16.43q), >75 g (77.02 & 91.58 q) and Total tuber yield (q/ha) (24.11 & 27.07q) Harvested at 75 DAP and 90 DAP, respectively, of potato over furrow irrigation, except grade >25 g (2.75 & 2.59 q) at 75 DAP and 90 DAP and >50-75 g (10.35 q) 90 DAP in which furrow irrigation (I1) was significantly enhance tubers weight of potato over micro-sprinkler irrigation (I2). whereas, among dates of different of sowing, 15th October (D4) had significant effects on potato different grade yield of Potato (q/acre) i.e. >25 g (3.36 and 2.83q), >25-50 g (8.66 and 8.34q), >50-75 g (19.58 and 1.42q), >75 g (111.13 & 140.02 q) Harvested at 75 DAP and 90 DAP, respectively, Harvested at 75 DAP and 90 DAP), and Total tuber yield (q/ha) (35.26 & 40.43q) harvested at 75 DAP and 90 DAP over rest of the other planting dates during 2017-18 to 2018-19. All tubers weight of different grade of potato crop variety (Kufri Lima) sown on 15 October and harvested at 75 DAP and 90 DAP by micro-sprinkler irrigation system performed best under Hisar conditions.','Dates of planting, different grade yield, furrow, micro-sprinkler, potato','Based on the findings of this study, Micro-sprinkler irrigation with Kufri-Lima found superior to increase weight of the tubers from 14 to 110.50% significantly more were harvested at 75 DAP and 90 DAP, respectively, which was comparatively higher than furrow irrigation method. Finally, by following the conclusion, it is suggested that potato (Kufri-Lima) planted on 15th October and harvested at 75 DAP and 90 DAP under micro-sprinkler irrigation method to be a good for growth parameters of potato crop under Hisar conditions. ','INTRODUCTION \r\nPotato (Solanum tuberosum L.) is a native of the South American continent, where it grew as a wild plant between 7000 and 9000 years ago. In the 17th century, all the credit for bringing potatoes to India goes to Purtigalio, after which the British carried it to North India. It is considered to be the only popular tuber grown in more than 100 natives all over the world (Nath et al., 2008; Pandey and Sarkar 2005; Touseef, 2016). Potato is the most popular non-cereal crop all over the world, along with it is also the fourth most important food crop (Zhang et al., 2017; Anonymous, 2017). Potato was documented as a safe food and crop for the world\'s poor as well as developing countries by Thiele et al. (2010); Singh and Rana (2013).\r\nPresently, India is behind only China in potato production in the whole world. In 2017-18, India produced 525.89 lakh tonnes of potato on 21.84 million hectares, with a productivity of 24.08 t ha-1 (Anonymous, 2019). Potato is grown in almost all the states in India, yet seven of them (Uttar Pradesh, West Bengal, Bihar, Gujarat, Madhya Pradesh, Punjab and Haryana) have 90% potato production (Anonymous, 2018). Haryana is one of the main potato producing states in India, whose productivity is more than the average productivity of India, along with potato is also one of the main crops here. Potato has the highest area among the crops grown in the state. The area, production and productivity of potato in Haryana has not improved as much as it should have, the area under potato crop during the year 2018-19 was 34738 hectare, production 8977846 tonne hectare and productivity 25 t/ha (Anonymous, 2020).\r\nPotatoes are also rich in nutrients, which mainly contain vitamin C, potassium as well as dietary fiber (Weaver and Marr 2013). If the nutrient value ratio of potato is compared with all other vegetables and fruits, then in this case it proves to be very economical, so it is included in the most economical nutritional food in the whole world (Drewnowski and Rhem 2013). Animal and human research indicates that the nutrients in potatoes may positively affect a number of disease risk factors, including chronic disease, including blood pressure, blood lipids, and inflammation (Beals, 2019). \r\nSoil temperature plays an important role in potato maturation, for example, 16-19°C temperature is important for tuber sprouting and initial growth, temperatures above 20°C reduce tuber development and if the temperature exceeds 30 °C, then the growth of the tuber stops. More tubers are obtained from one plant if the temperature is low rather than high whereas at higher temperature the size of potato increases and the number decreases (Pandey et al., 2008). In North and Central India, the temperature is favorable for sowing of potatoes after mid-October, only then potatoes are sown at the same time because if sowing is done early, then early planting can result in rotting of tubers in the post monsoon season. For balanced growth of tubers, it is necessary to have optimum level of moisture in the roots zone of the plant, which can be achieved by modern irrigation methods like drip and sprinkler (Pawar et al., 2002). \r\nFurthermore, sprinkler irrigation technologies allow for more efficient resource utilization and increased agricultural output (Singh et al., 2001). The main reasons for increasing productive capacity of tuber crop with micro-sprinklers can be attributed to mitigation of effect of white fly, nutrient leaching and soil moisture fluctuations in effective root zone. When comparing drip and furrow watered crops to micro-sprinkler irrigated crops, it was clearly seen that whitefly infestation was less severe. The leaf canopy was cleansed and the whitefly infestation was controlled by frequent irrigation with a micro-sprinkler. Aside from that, micro-sprinkler irrigation may have provided a better microclimate, allowing for enhanced photosynthesis, root aeration, and plant growth, resulting in increased yields (Holzapfel et al., 2000). \r\nMATERIALS AND METHODS\r\nDURING the winter (Rabi) seasons of 2017-19, the research work, entitled “Influence of Irrigation Systems and Planting Dates on tubers weight of different grade yield of Potato (Solanum tuberosum L.) was carried out at the Research Farm of the Department of Vegetable Science, CCS Haryana Agricultural University, Hisar. \r\nThe following are the details of the materials and methods used in this study: \r\nA. Location of the experiment, climate, and meteorological circumstances\r\nHisar is located at latitude of 29º10N, longitude of 75º 46E and at the elevation of 215.2 m above mean sea level and falls in semi-arid and sub-tropical region with hot and dry summer and severe cold in winters. Monthly mean meteorological data (maximum and minimum temperature, relative humidity, sunshine, and rainfall) collected by the Department of Agricultural Meteorology, CCS HAU, Hisar, during the crop Growing season 2017-19.\r\nB. Soil characteristics\r\nThe composite soil samples were gathered from the experimental field up to a depth of 15 cm before the experiment. Before applying treatments, these samples were analyzed to determine the original state of the soil. The physico-chemical properties of the samples were investigated.\r\nC. Experimental details\r\nThe research was completed at Research Farm of the Department of Vegetable Science, Chaudhary Charan Singh Haryana Agricultural University, Hisar during Rabi season of 2017-19. Two experiments were conducted during the research, the other details of the experimental material, design and treatments are given as under:\r\nExperiment 1: Influence of Irrigation Systems and Planting Dates on tubers weight of different grade yield of Potato harvested at 75 days after planting.\r\nExperiment 2: Influence of Irrigation Systems and Dates of Planting on tubers weight of different grade Potato yield harvested at 90 days after planting.\r\nDesign of Experimental-Split plot design, Variety of potato-Kufri Lima, Replications Numbers-4, Net plot size (m2) 3×2 m (6 m2), Spacing between rows-60 cm and Plant-to-plant distance-20 cm.\r\nExperiment design and layout. Split-plot Design (SPD) was used to set up the experiment, which was then reproduced four times. With the use of a random number table, the 8 treatments were randomized.\r\nExperimental materials. The Department of Vegetable Science, CCS Haryana Agricultural University, Hisar (Haryana) provided the seed tubers of potato variety Kufri Lima used in this study. Following are the specifics of the treatment:\r\nMain plot. Irrigation methods - 2\r\n— I1: Furrow irrigation (30 mm CPE)\r\n— I2: Micro-sprinkler (10 mm CPE)\r\nSub-plot. Planting dates - 4\r\n1st September, 15th September, 30th September and 15th October\r\nD. Cultural operations \r\nThe cultural operations practiced in the course of experiment are described below:\r\n(i) Field preparation and application of fertilizer. During both years, the experimental field was appropriately prepared in the last week of August. To smash clods, the field was ploughed twice using a tractor-drawn cultivator after the previous crop was harvested. The field was ploughed by cross harrowing followed by the cultivator twice and in the final planking to bring the soil to a fine tilth before sowing.\r\n(ii) Seed rate and sowing. In the 1st September, 15th September, 30th September, and 15th October in 2017 and 2018, a potato planter planted seeds of the potato crop @ 30 q/ha on a well-prepared field\r\nE. Details of collection of experimental data\r\nThe following are the details of the different observations made, as well as the procedures to be used:\r\n(i) Weight of tubers in different grades (kg/m2) i. >25 g, ii. >25-50 g, iii. >50-75 g and iv. >75 g. At the time of harvest, the potato tubers from each treatment which were divided into four grades for number of tubers such as A grade (>75g), B grade (>50-75g), C grade (>25-50g) and D grade (up to 25g) were weighed separately and computed for the weight of tuber in different grade in kilogram in one square meter and convert into Q/Acre.\r\n(ii) Total tuber yield (Q/Ha). At the time of harvest, the potato tubers from each net plot, which were divided into four grades such as, up to 25 g (D grade), >25-50 g (C grade), >50-75 g (B grade) and >75 g (A grade), were weighed separately and computed for the weight of tubers in different grades in kilogram in one square meter area. The total yield was obtained by summing up the weight of A, B, C and D grade tubers of each net plot as taken for weight of tubers of different grades. Then the values were converted into kilogram per square meter and convert into Q/Ha.\r\nF. Statistical analysis\r\nThe data collected for each character during the study was statistically evaluated using the analysis of variance technique (ANOVA). The significant difference (CD) was calculated using the following method to determine the significance of the difference between the mean of two treatments:\r\n\"CD= \" √(\"2 X Mean square error\" /\"n\" ) \" X \'t\'\" (1)\r\nWhere, CD = Critical difference\r\nn = Number of replications of the factor for which C.D. is to be calculated.\r\nt = the value from fisher table for error degree of freedom at 5% level of significance. \r\nRESULTS \r\nA. Weight of tubers in different grade up to 25 g (Q/Acre)\r\nThe data mentioned in Table 1 shows that highest weight of tuber per m2 in grade up to 25 g at harvest (2.75 & 2.59 q at 75 DAP and 90 DAP, respectively during 2017-19) were observed with furrow irrigation system (I1) than micro-sprinkler irrigation method (I2). Among different dates of planting, highest weight of tuber per m2 in grade, up to 25 g at harvest (3.36 & 2.83 q at 75 DAP and 90 DAP. Respectively, during 2017-19,) were observed in potato planted on 15th October (D4). While evaluating the combinations of various planting dates with different systems of irrigation highest weight of tuber per acre in grade up to 25 g at harvest (3.60 & 3.84 q harvested at 75 DAP and 90 DAP, respectively, during 2017-19) were observed in treatment D4I1 (Potatoes were planted on the 15th of October with furrow irrigation) which were not affected significantly by different combination. \r\nLowest weight of tuber per area in grade up to 25 g of potato at harvest were recorded in treatment D1I1 (Potatoes were planted on the 1st of October with furrow irrigation) followed by D1I2 (Potatoes were planted on the 1st of September with micro-sprinkler irrigation).\r\nB. Weight of tubers in different grade >25-50 g (Q/Acre)\r\nThe data mentioned in Table 2 indicates that highest weight of tuber per acre in grade up to 25 g at harvest (7.81 & 7.53 q at 75 DAP and 90 DAP, respectively during 2017-19) were recorded under furrow irrigation System (I1) than micro-sprinkler irrigation method (I2). Among different dates of planting, highest weight of tuber per acre in grade, up to 25 g at harvest (8.66 & 7.53q at 75 DAP and 90 DAP respectively during 2017-19) were recorded in potato planted on 15th October (D4). When evaluating the combinations of different planting dates with different system of irrigation highest weight of tuber per acre in grade up to 25 g at harvest (9.35 and 9.67q harvested at 75 DAP and 90 DAP during 2017-19, respectively) were observed in treatment D4I1 (On the 15th of October, potatoes were planted under furrow irrigation) which were not affected significantly by different combination. Lowest weight of tuber/acre in grade up to 25 g of potato at harvest were recorded in treatment D1I1 (where potatoes were planted via furrow irrigation on September 1st) followed by D1I2 (where potatoes were planted on September 1st and irrigated with a micro-sprinkler).\r\nC. Weight of tubers in different grade >50-75(Q/Acre)\r\nThe data mentioned in Table 3 shows that the highest weight of tuber/acre in grade > 50-75 g at harvest, i.e. 16.43q at 75 DAP during 2017-19, were observed with micro-sprinkler irrigation method (I2) and 10.35 q kg at 90 DAP during 2017-19, were recorded under furrow irrigation method (I1). Among different planting dates, highest weight of tuber/acre in grade > 50-75 g at harvest (19.85 & 12.42 q at 75 DAP and 90 DAP, respectively during 2017-19) were observed in potato planted on 15th October (D4). While comparing the combinations of different dates of planting with different methods of irrigation, significantly highest weight of tuber/acre in \r\ngrade > 50-75 g at highest weight i.e. 20.75q at 75 DAP during 2017-19, were recorded in treatment D4I2 (On the 15th of October, potatoes were planted under micro-sprinkler irrigation) and 10.35 kg at 90 DAP during 2017-19, were recorded in treatment D4I1 (On the 15th of October, potato was planted under micro-sprinkler irrigation) which were affected significantly by different combination. The low weight of tuber/acre in grade > 50-75 g of potato at harvest were recorded in treatment D1I1 (where potatoes were planted via furrow irrigation on September 1st) followed by D1 I2 (where potatoes were planted on September 1st and irrigated with micro-sprinkler).\r\nThe data mentioned in Table 4 reveals that significantly highest weight of tuber/acre in grade > 75g at harvest (77.02q & 91.58 at 75 DAP and 90 DAP, respectively during 2017-19) were recorded under micro-sprinkler irrigation method (I2) over furrow irrigation method (I1). Among different dates of planting, significantly highest weight of tuber/acre in grade >75 g at harvest (111.13q at 75 DAP & 140.02q harvested at 90 DAP, respectively during 2017-19) were recorded in potato planted on 15th October (D4) over rest of the other date of planting. While comparing the combinations of different dates of planting with different methods of irrigation, highest weight of tuber/acre in grade >75 kg at harvest (112.66q at 75 DAP & 143.66 at 90 DAP during 2017-19) were recorded in treatment D4I2 (On the 15th of October, potatoes were planted under micro-sprinkler irrigation) which was statistically at par with D4I1 (109.59) at same level of date of planting at 75 DAP during 2017-19. Lowest weight of tuber/acre in grade >75 g of potato at harvest were recorded in treatment D1I1 (where potato planted on1st September under furrow irrigation) followed by D1I2 (where potato planted on 1st September under micro-sprinkler irrigation). \r\nIn the present study, significantly higher number of tubers of grade up to 25g in potato (ranged from 13.94 to 18.44% harvested at 75 DAP and 6.99 to 34.95% harvested at 90 DAP) was observed under furrow irrigation method over micro-sprinkler irrigation during 2017-18 and 2018-19, respectively. Similar finding of higher number of smaller grade of potato under furrow irrigation method over micro-sprinkler irrigation method was observed by Patel et al., (2011) whereas, significantly higher number of tubers of grade up to 25g in potato (30.54 to 20.12% harvested at 75 DAP and 13.05 to 18.38% harvested at 90 DAP) was observed in potato planted on 15th October over one month early potato planted on 15th September during 2018-19 and 2017-18, respectively. \r\nE. Total tuber yield (Q/Ha)\r\nThe data mentioned in Table 5 reveals that significantly highest total tuber yield (24.11 q/ha at 75 DAP & 246.1 and 27.07 Q/Ha at 90 DAP during 2017-19, respectively) were recorded under micro-sprinkler irrigation method (I2) over furrow irrigation method (I1). Among different dates of planting, significantly highest total tuber yield (35.26 Q/Ha at 75 DAP & 40.43 Q/Ha at 90 DAP during 2017-19, respectively) were recorded in potato planted on 15th October (D4) over rest of the other date of planting. \r\nWhile comparing the combinations of different dates of planting with different methods of irrigation, highest total tuber yield (36.04 Q/Ha at 75 DAP & 41.40 Q/Ha at 90 DAP during 2017‒19, respectively) were recorded in treatment D4I2 (On the 15th of October, potato was planted under micro-sprinkler irrigation). Lowest total tuber yield of potato were recorded in treatment D1I1 (where potatoes were planted via furrow irrigation on September 1st) followed by D1I2 (where potatoes were planted on September 1st and irrigated with a micro-sprinkler).\r\nDISCUSSIONS \r\nA. Weight of tubers of different grades\r\nIn the present study, significantly higher weight of tubers of grade up to 25g in potato (ranged from 17.09% harvested at 75 DAP and 36.31% harvested at 90 DAP) was observed under furrow irrigation method over micro-sprinkler irrigation during 2017-19. Similar finding of increased in weight of smaller grade of potato under furrow irrigation method over micro-sprinkler irrigation method was observed by Patel et al., (2011) whereas, significantly higher weight of tubers of grade up to 25g in potato (42.97% harvested at 75 DAP and 32.24 harvested at 90 DAP) was observed in potato planted on 15th October over one month early potato planted on 15th September during 2018-19, respectively. Contrary trend of reduction in weight of smaller grade of tubers in timely planted potato was observed by Singh et al., (2018). \r\nOn the other hand, a trend of increased in weight of tubers q acre-1 of grade >25-50 g of potato (27.65% harvested at 75 DAP and 27.41% harvested at 90 DAP); of grade >50-75g of potato (25.32% harvested at 75 DAP) and grade >75g of potato (29.46% harvested at 75 DAP and 19.54% harvested at 90 DAP) was observed under micro-sprinkler irrigation method over furrow irrigation method during 2017-19, respectively. It may be due to uniform availability of water under micro-sprinkler irrigation method that increased the weight of bigger tubers. Similar finding of higher weight of bigger grade of potato in micro-sprinkler irrigation method over furrow irrigation method was observed by Patel et al., (2011). Likewise, Similar trend of increased in weight of tubers acre2 of grade >25-50g of potato (19.61% harvested at 75 DAP and 24.10% harvested at 90 DAP); of grade >50-75g of potato (32.92% harvested at 75 DAP and 44.08% harvested at 90 DAP) and of grade >75g of potato (67.63% harvested at 75 DAP and 116.51% harvested at 90) was observed in potato planted on 15th October over one month early potato planted on 15th September during 2017-19. It may be due to the optimization of temperature favorable to increase the weight of bigger tubers of potato at timely sown condition in comparison to warmer temperature at one month early planted crop of potato.\r\nB. Total tuber yield (Q/Ha)\r\nTotal weight of tubers (Q/Ha) of potato was affected significantly by method of irrigation. Significantly, higher total weight of tubers per ha (19.54% harvested at 75 DAP and 14.80% harvested at 90 DAP) was observed under micro-sprinkler irrigation method over furrow irrigation during 2017-19. Higher tuber yield under sprinkler irrigation could be attributed to optimum soil moisture throughout the period of crop growth, which resulted in manipulation of soil temperature and helped in better root growth and tuber development. The present results are in conformity with the findings of Singh and Sood, (2013) and Mustafa et al., (2017) found more total yield of tubers/ha of potato through sprinkler irrigation as compared to furrow irrigation whereas, significantly higher total weight of tubers per ha (110.50% harvested at 75 DAP and 99.16% harvested at 90 DAP) was observed in potato planted on 15th October over one month early potato planted on 15th September during 2017--19. Similar trend of increased in total weight of tubers per m2 in timely planted potato was observed by Haile et al., (2015) and Thongam et al., (2017). It may be due to the optimization of temperature favorable to increase total weight of tubers at timely sown condition in comparison to warmer temperature at one month early planted crop of potato.\r\n','Mukesh Kumar, Arun Kumar Bhatia, Surender Kumar, Parveen Kumar, Vishal Atwal and Sunil Kumar (2022). Influence of Irrigation Systems and Planting Dates on Tubers Weight of Different Grade Yield of Potato (Solanum tuberosum L.). Biological Forum – An International Journal, 14(2): 263-269.'),(4834,'125','Study on Flag Leaf and its Penultimate Leaves for their Association with Grain Yield in Rice (Oryza sativa L.)','Mahesh G.*, Chandra Mohan Y., Saida Naik D. and Narender Reddy S.','48 Study on Flag Leaf and its Penultimate Leaves for their Association with Grain Yield in Rice _Oryza sativa L._ Mahesh G.pdf','',1,'Flag leaf contributes 45% of rice grain yield because it mostly provides photosynthetic products to the panicle so significant improvement in grain output is directly related with improving flag leaf features. A field test was carried out to see the link between paddy grain yield and the top three leaves. The 3rd leaf is longer than the 1st and 2nd leaves among the top three leaves. The first leaf is wider than the second and third leaves. Angle of third leaf is more compared to top two leaves. Correlation studies revealed that flag leaf length, thickness, area, chlorophyll content index (CCI) and SPAD has significantly positive correlation with grain yield. Flag leaf thickness has also shown significantly positive correlation with chlorophyll content index (CCI) and SPAD. JMS11B, CMS59B, and MTU1010 had the highest grain yields among genotypes studied. In our experiment, the high producing genotypes had short and intermediate leaf length and leaf width, and at least two of the top three leaf angles were erect or intermediate types.','Chlorophyll content, Flag leaf, grain yield, Rice, SPAD','As a result, the highest grain yields were found in JMS11B, CMS59B, and MTU1010. In our experiment, the high producing genotypes had short and intermediate leaf length and leaf width, and at least two of the top three leaf angles were erect or intermediate types. As a result, selecting these features is beneficial to yield improvement programmes.','INTRODUCTION\r\nRice is a member of the Oryza genus in the Gramineae family and is a staple meal for over half of the world\'s population.High yield has become a main goal in rice breeding programmes as the world\'s population grows. The main source of carbohydrate production is flag leaf and its penultimate leaves (Al-Tahir, 2014).Flag leaf contributes 45% of rice grain yield because it mostly provides photosynthetic products to the panicle. Plant breeding may result in a significant improvement in grain output by improving flag leaf features. The length of the flag leaf has long been considered as one of the most important variables in the development of novel rice plant ideotypes with high yielding potential (Vangahun, 2012). Leaf length varies greatly in rice and is closely related to leaf angle. Droopyness is related with long leaves, whereas erectness is associated with short and tiny leaves (Vangahun, 2012). The angle of the flag leaf had a significant impact on rice grain output because of light interception will change with the angle (Prakash et al. 2011). Through ideotype breeding, the ideal leaf length, width, thickness, angle, and area were addressed for generating high-yielding rice cultivars (Peng et al. 2008). As a result, we assessed the flag leaf and its penultimate leaves for their association with grain yield.\r\nMATERIAL AND METHODS\r\nDuring kharif, 2017 eleven CMS lines along with their maintainer lines were raised at Rice Research Center, PJTSAU, Hyderabad. All the lines were grown in three replications in randomized block design with spacing of 20 x 15 cm. To raise a successful crop, the entire suggested package of practices was followed. Eleven Cytoplasmic male sterile lines and five local varieties were utilized as test subjects for determining the leaf features of the top three leaves (1st leaf or flag leaf, 2nd leaf or penultimate leaf and 3rd leaf), viz., length, width, angle, thickness SPAD and CCI of the leaves. At reproductive stage, the lengths of the top three leaves on the main culm were measured in centimeters (cm) using a coded measuring device and classified as: very short (<21 cm), short (21–40 cm), intermediate (41–60 cm), long (61–80 cm) and extra long (>80 cm) (Jockson 2010). At reproductive stage, the width of the top three leaves was measured in cm at the widest portion of the leaf blade with a coded measuring instrument and classified as: narrow (<1 cm), intermediate (1–2 cm) and broad (>2 cm) (Jockson, 2010).\r\nPalaniswamy and Gomez\'s (1972) formula was used to calculate the area of the flag leaf, second leaf, and third leaf:\r\nLeaf Area = (length × width) × K Constant (K)= 0.75\r\nThe leaf angle was calculated by marking the position of each leaf\'s tip and collar on the paper against the main culm, which served as a vertical line. A line was drawn between the two spots, and an angle was measured with a protractor between the line and the vertical axis (Yoshida et al. 1976) and The angle of the flag leaf at full bloom determines the categorization, where the flag leaf angle ranges from 0-30 degrees for upright, 31-60degrees for intermediate, 61–90 degrees for horizontal, and 91 degrees or greater for downward. (Chang et al., 1965).\r\nDigital callipers were used to measure leaf thickness, which was given in millimeters (Kiran et al., 2013). SPAD and CCI were captured at the blossoming stage utilisingMC-100 chlorophyll concentration meter. \r\nPanicles from 1 m2 were collected at physiological maturity, sun dried, threshed, cleaned, and the weight of grains was recorded and expressed in g m-2 then computed to q.ac-1 (Yang et al., 2007).\r\nRESULTS AND DISCUSSION\r\nThe angle of the third leaf was greater than the angles of the second and first leaves among the top three leaves in CMS lines and checks (Table 1). CMS 64B has the highest flag leaf angle of 46.67o among the CMS lines and checks, followed by CMS 23B (33.33o) and CMS 59B (21.67o). JGL11470 had the maximum angle of 33.33o in the second leaf, followed by CMS64B (30o). The third leaf angle was the greatest in CMS 23B (43O) followed by RNR15048(41.67o). Among the genotypes CMS 23B and JGL18047 were intermediate type and remaining were had erect type flag leaves. Correlation studies revealed angle of flag leaf has significantly negatively associated with grain yield (Table 2). This could be because the most effective arrangement for optimal photosynthesis is erect leaves. When LAI is large or sunlight is abundant, erect leaves are the most efficient arrangement for maximum photosynthesis. They have a higher leaf area index, which increases light interception for photosynthesis, and more upright leaves, which allow solar energy to penetrate into the lower levels of the aerial structure of plants (Vangahun, 2012).\r\nThe length of the third leaf was greater than the length of the second and first leaves among the top three leaves in CMS lines and checks (Table 1). JMS11B had the longest flag leaf of 36.60 cm among the CMS lines and checks, followed by CMS59B (35.87 cm) and MTU1010 (35.71 cm). JMS13B had the longest second leaf (49.40 cm), followed by CMS64B (48.37 cm). The longest 3rd leaf was present in JMS14B (51.70 cm), followed by CMS59B (48.13 cm). Because mutual shading is reduced and light interception is more efficient, many breeders discard lines with unusually long flag leaves extending 30 cm or more. Short leaves are more erect and evenly distributed throughout the canopy, so mutual shading is reduced and light interception is more efficient (Vangahun, 2012). The association between flag leaf length and yield was positive (r=0.832) and very significant; plants with longer flag leaf length may have elongated panicles, resulting in more primary and secondary rachis, and thus more grain in the panicle, which improved the cultivar\'s production (Rahman et al., 2013). \r\nThe width of the first leaf is greater than the width of the second and third leaves among the top three leaves (Table 1). Among the CMS lines and checks, wider flag leaf was presentinJMS13B (1.93 cm), JMS17B (1.77 cm) and CMS14B (1.73 cm) that was on par with each other. In the instance of JGL11470, the width of the second leaf was the widest (1.53 cm) followed by CMS23B (1.37 cm), JMS17B (1.30 cm) JMS18B (1.30 cm) that was on par with each other. JMS18B has the widest 3rd leaf, measuring 1.33 cm. According to Tari et al. (2009), the flag leaf must be wide and upright in order to increase rice grain yield.\r\nAmong the CMS lines and checks, the thickest flag leaf was present in JMS11B (0.23 mm), followed by CMS59B (0.20 mm). Flag leaf thickness has shown significantly positive correlation with SPAD, CCI (chlorophyll content index) and grain yield. This may be due to thicker leaves may accommodate more chlorophyll content per unit area which results in improved photosynthesis. Guru et al. (2017) also reported similar results. In rice, leaf thickness has a positive relationship with single-leaf net photosynthetic rate (Pn), while the Pn of the flag leaf after heading has a positive relationship with grain yield (Vangahun 2012).\r\nFlag leaf thickness has also shown significantly positive correlation with flag leaf length (r=0.557) and significantly negative correlation with flag leaf angle (r=-0.553). Liu et al. (2014) observed that leaf length and leaf thickness have a significant positive correlation, it showed that thicker leaves were good for increasing single leaf area and that leaf thickness was inversely linked with leaf angle, implying that thicker leaves were favorable to the upright canopy.\r\nAmong the CMS lines and genotypes highest flag leaf area of 43.33 cm2 was recorded in JMS11B, followed by CMS59B (41.13 cm2) and MTU1010 (40.54 cm) which were on par. Flag leaf area has shown significantly positive correlation with grain yield. Flag leaf area was picked by Tari et al. (2009) as a factor for boosting rice grain output.\r\nFlag leaf chlorophyll content index and SPAD values has recorded maximum in JMS11B followed by CMS59B and JGL11470 (Table 1). Flag leaf chlorophyll content index (CCI) and SPAD values has shown that grain yield and flag leaf thickness have a substantial positive correlation (Table 3) significant differences were observed among the genotypes with respect to grain yield (Table 1). The genotype with the highest grain yield out of all the genotypes was JMS11B (47.04 q.ac-1), followed by CMS59B (46.98 q.ac-1) and MTU1010 (39.34 q.ac-1), which was on par and significantly superior to other genotypes. Flag leaf morphological parameters like size and shape, as well as physiological traits like chlorophyll content index and SPAD value, have long been thought to be major predictors of grain output in cereals (Xue et al., 2008).\r\n \r\n','Mahesh G., Chandra Mohan Y., Saida Naik D. and Narender Reddy S. (2022 Study on Flag Leaf and its Penultimate Leaves for their Association with Grain Yield in Rice (Oryza sativa L.). Biological Forum – An International Journal, 14(2): 270-274.'),(4835,'125','Role of Nutrient Interaction Between Sulphur and Boron on Oilseed Crops','Akshita Barthwal, Narendra Swaroop, Tarence Thomas, Vinayak Sharma, Raghu Nandan Singh Khatana* and P. Smriti Rao','49 Role of Nutrient Interaction Between Sulphur and Boron on Oilseed Crops Akshita Barthwal.pdf','',1,'India is one of the world\'s largest vegetable oil economies- currently accounting for roughly 13% of the world\'s oilseeds area, 7% of the world\'s oilseeds output, and 10% of the world\'s edible oil consumption. For oilseeds, apart from major plant nutrients like nitrogen, phosphorus and potassium, sulphur and boron plays an vital role in the production phenology. Soil samples examined across the country were insufficient in accessible sulphur and boron deficiency holds at about 50 percent. When both elements were applied in conjugation the total enhancement exceeded the additive effect (independently by both nutrients) by the virtue of the synergistic effect shown by sulphur and boron thereby increasing yield attributes of oilseeds viz. seed yield, dry matter, number of seeds, seed oil quality and quantity and protein content of seed. Research shows application of sulphur at a rate of 30-40 kg ha-1 and boron at 2.5-3 kg ha-1 proved to be most beneficial for oilseeds like rapeseed and sunflower. Interaction between boron and sulphur also led to increased availability and uptake of other primary and secondary nutrients by the plants. The synergistic impact aided post harvest soil of oilseed crops counted as in increased nutrient content and organic carbon content without effecting the pH and EC also the higher nutritional content of food, such as increased oil and protein content, is another strategy to future food safety','Boron, Interaction, oilseed crops, Sulphur','It is clearly stated over the years that adding sulphur and boron beyond the recommended dose of NPK fertilizers in oilseed crops results in considerable increase in Seed yield, stover yield and increased content of protein and oil in the seeds- the increased protein content of the seeds results in a more nutrition rich crop for consumption. The post harvest soil is also benefited from the conjugative applications of boron and sulphur because of increased levels of Organic carbon, primary nutrients like nitrogen, phosphorus and potassium along with some secondary nutrients like sulphur and micronutrients like boron. The uptake of nutrients by the succeeding crop in also improved. As the cropping system intensifies due to increased demand for food in the coming years, the nutrient supplying capacity of the soils gets destroyed therefore, it becomes essential to improve the fertilizer use efficiency and utilizing the complimentary and synergistic effects of the nutrients on a wide scale','-','Akshita Barthwal, Narendra Swaroop, Tarence Thomas, Vinayak Sharma, Raghu Nandan Singh Khatana and P. Smriti Rao (2022). Role of Nutrient Interaction Between Sulphur and Boron on Oilseed Crops. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 14(2): 275-279'),(4836,'125','Quantitative and Qualitative Parameters of Kabul Dhingri (Pleurotus eryngii) Mushroom Harvested from Different Substrates and Supplements','Akansha Deora*, S.S. Sharma, Abhitej Singh Shekhawat and Suresh Kumar','50 Quantitative and Qualitative Parameters of Kabul Dhingri _Pleurotus eryngii_ Mushroom Harvested from Different Substrates and Supplements Akansha Deora.pdf','',1,'Pleurotus eryngii is a widely emerging edible fungi and gaining immense popularity in world of mushrooms due to its specific properties like flavour and aroma, its low cost production and requirement of limited land resources. Being newly introduced to Rajasthan, standardization of its cultivation technology and biochemical analysis was done to explore more of the benefits of this mushroom. So, this study was conducted at All India Coordinated Research Project on Medicinal Mushroom Unit in Department of Plant Pathology, Rajasthan College of Agriculture, MPUAT, Udaipur to explore the quantitative parameters like yield and yield attributing characters as well as nutritional and health benefits of Pleurotus eryngii harvested from different substrates and supplements since this. The qualitative parameters including moisture contents, protein contents, carbohydrate contents, crude fiber and phenol contents were studied. Quantitative parameters were studied to find the substrate giving maximum yield and Biological efficiency (BE) in subtropical zones. Paddy straw gave the best results. On the other side, maize straw produced the quickest spawn run completion and initiation of pin heads emergence.\r\nMoisture contents of fruit bodies grown over substrates and supplements, ranged from 82 to 90%. Fruit bodies harvested from wheat straw and wheat straw supplemented with 5 per cent wheat bran had maximum (90%) and minimum (82%) moisture contents, respectively. Percentages of total protein on dry weight of mushrooms were found to be the highest (33%) on maize straw and the lowest (15%) being recorded on wheat straw + 5 per cent wheat bran. The highest (67%) and the lowest (44%) total carbohydrate contents were obtained with the wheat straw + 5 per cent wheat bran and sorghum straw, respectively. Crude fiber was found maximum (31%) and minimum (11%) in fruit bodies harvested from wheat straw and wheat straw + 5 per cent wheat bran, respectively. Total phenol contents of Pleurotus eryngii grown on all experimental substrates and supplements were found to be 5.3-7 mg/g of dry weight, which was highest on wheat straw + 5 per cent wheat bran, followed by sorghum straw and wheat straw + 5 per cent rice bran and the lowest found on maize straw','carbohydrate, crude fiber, nutritional, phenol, Pleurotus eryngii, qualitative parameters, substrate','Among the six substrates and supplements tested (Wheat straw, Paddy straw, Maize straw, Sorghum straw, Wheat straw + 5 per cent rice bran, Wheat straw + 5 percent wheat bran), Paddy straw resulted in maximum B.E (88.4%) whereas Maize straw showed the minimum time for completion of spawn run (8 days) and pin head initiation (12.4 days). But, due to the unavailability of Paddy straw in this region, other substrates with good yields are recommended. The quality parameters like moisture, protein, carbohydrate, crude fiber and phenol contents were studied. Moisture contents of fruit bodies ranged from 82-90%. Total protein on dry weight basis and total carbohydrates were in the range of 15-33% and 44-67%, respectively. The crude fiber content was recorded 11-31% in our experiment. Total phenols of P. eryngii over experimental substrates and supplements were observed to be in the range of 5.3-7 mg/g dry weight.\r\nIn future aspect, Pleurotus eryngii is gaining importance and immense popularity in world of mushrooms in terms of their certain properties, low cost production, requirement of limited land and other resources and environment- friendliness. Many health benefits have been identified to control the malnutrition and human diseases. Presence of bio-active compounds and conversion of wastes into protein rich food are some of the features that have drawn attention from many researchers in recent few years. More work is expected to be done to explore more of the benefits of this mushroom','-','Akansha Deora, S.S. Sharma, Abhitej Singh Shekhawat and Suresh Kumar (2022). Quantitative and Qualitative Parameters of Kabul Dhingri (Pleurotus eryngii) Mushroom Harvested from Different Substrates and Supplements. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 14(2): 280-286.'),(4839,'74','Phenotypic Characterisation and Multivariate Analysis of Biometric Traits of Diara Buffalo of Bihar, India','Ramesh Kumar Singh*, Birendra Kumar, Rajesh Kumar, Santosh Kumar and K.G. Mandal','9 Phenotypic Characterisation and Multivariate Analysis of Biometric Traits of Diara Buffalo of Bihar, India Ramesh Kumar Singh.pdf','',1,'For Phenotypic characterization and multivariate analysis, measurements on 20 biometric traits in 400 Diara buffalo were recorded and incorporated into PCA analysis with varimax rotations. The phenotypic correlations were mostly positive and significant correlations. This suggest high predictability among the different traits and also making suitable for PCA analysis. After Varimax Rotation of the matrix of the components, three PCs with (eigenvalues greater than 1) with variance ratio of 90% were extracted for biometric traits of Diara buffalo. First component accounted for 48% of the variation. It was represented by significant positive high loading of PG, FW, NC, BLO, CG, BL, DBH, HBL, HBH, BH and HL. First component seemed to be explaining the maximum of general body conformation in Diara Buffaloes. The second component explained 14% of total variance with high loading of FL, EL and HC. The third component explained 28% variation of biometric traits with high loading of LG, NL and EL. The communality ranged from 0.68 (LG) to 0.99 (BLO) for all these 20 different biometric traits of Diara buffalo. The principal PC1, PC2 and PC3 components together explain highest variation 90% in BLO trait and lowest 68% in LG trait. These components could be exploited in the evaluation and comparison of animals and provide criteria to select animals on the basis of small group of characters rather than individual characters. These differences indicate that each population has its own characteristics. The selection criteria should be determined taking into account the specificity of population or breed. ','Varimax, Morphometric Traits, Principal Component Analysis, Buffalo, Bihar','The application of PCA pave way to explore the interdependence raw variables of biometric traits of Diara buffalo. Results of PCA suggest that the use of orthogonal synthetic variables principal component one (PC1), two (PC2) and three (PC3) provided a means of reduction in the number of biometric traits to be recorded in Diara buffaloes. They may be more reliable in explaining body conformation in adult Diara buffalo instead of individual trait. These components could be exploited in the evaluation and comparison of animals and provide criteria to select animals on the basis of small group of characters rather than individual characters. After varimax rotation, PC1 may be used in phenotypic selection as a means to explain biometric traits. Our results suggest that the present PCA provided a means for reduction in the number of biometric traits to be recorded in Diara buffalo (PG, FW, NC, BLO, CG, BL, DBH, HBL, HBH, BH and HL) which could be used in ranking programs as a mean to explain the body conformation. These differences indicate that each population has its own characteristics. The selection criteria should be determined taking into account the specificity of population or breed. ','INTRODUCTION\r\nThe mixed farming system is followed by the farmers in Bihar with cropping of cereal and livestock rearing. The livestock farming ensures round the year income in rain fed and semi-arid regions of Bihar and used them as an alternative source of income with production of milk and milk products. The buffalo among different livestock is found more in number because of more sustainable in production in rural masses in all harsh condition and low input management systems. India harbours all the recognized and high milk producing breeds of buffalo of the world. India has been the centre of dispersion of good germplasm of buffaloes for improvement of the species. Genetic resources of buffalo in India are represented by superior well-defined breeds namely, Murrah, Nili Ravi, Jaffarabadi, Bhadawari, Mehsana, Banni, Surti, Marathwadi, Pandharpuri, Nagpuri etc. The defined breeds of buffalo in India which constitutes about 30% of the total buffalo population in the country. However, 70% of the total buffalo population in the country is classified as non-descript type because efforts have not been made to characterize them phenotypically and genetically. The average productivity of indigenous is lower than that of national average (5.47 Kg/day). The lesser known group of buffalo population reared under area of South and North Gangetic plains of Bihar. They are phenotypically homogenous in certain characteristics, popularly known as Diara buffalo. They are well adapted to submerged condition of land in rainy season with water of the river Ganga. These buffalo are fully adapted to the agro-climatic and socio-economic conditions of the state under low-input management system in the Taal and Diara area of the river Ganges, Sone and Gandak. Diara buffalo serve the dual purposes of farmer milk and draught power having well adaptation to wide environmental conditions without affecting their production, reproduction and growth performance. The phenotypic characterization ofDiara buffalo is the first towards its improvements and documentations. The improvements in productivity required to ensure livelihood security of rural people. The phenotypic characterization of domestic animals consists of describing the biometric traits of buffalo population which differs from other groups (Canelón, 2005). This characterization included the biometric measurements of each animal’s body structure related to Body size and conformation. The measurement of biometric traitshelps to study the individual conformation, allowing the racial characterization and classification of the population. In addition, this characterization explore variation, comparison between and inside genetic groups and establishes the association between the animal’s conformation and function. These traits also contribute to the selection process in identifying the superior animals (Carvalho et al., 2010). The body measurements of adult buffaloes and their correlations can aid in predicting the potential and aptitudes of these animals (Agudelo-Gómez et al., 2015).\r\nAnalysis of variance and product moment correlations were widely used to characterize phenotypic and genetic relationships among traits in a breeding program (Dietl et al., 2005). However, principal component analysis is a more refined technique for analyzing data on measurements of biometric traits. Principal components are linear combinations of the original traits and are estimated in such away that the first principal component can explain the largest percentage of the total phenotypic variance. It is multivariate analytical tool that transforms a number of possibly correlated variables into as maller number of uncorrelated variables known as Principal Components(PC). It is arranged in such away that the first few retain most of the variation present in the original variables (Jolliffe, 2002). The factor extracted from PCA analysis can be used in breeding programs with sufficient reduction in number of first redundant traits to be recorded for explanation of maximum variability for prediction of performance traits (Ratwan et al. 2017). The phenotypic characterization of buffalo using Biometric traits and its multivariate analysis was reported by various workers in literature (Espinosa-Núnês et al., 2011; Johari et al., 2009; Vohra et al., 2015; Mirza et al., 2015; Dhillod et al., 2017; Divier-Gomez et al., 2015) in buffalo. There is some association between the body measurements, the productive and reproductive traits in buffaloes (Thomas and Chak-ravarty 2000; Espinosa-Núnês et al., 2011; Kern et al., 2014) and in cattle (Lagrotta et al., 2010; Silva et al., 2011; Pundir et al., 2011; Verma et al., 2015; Pares-Casanova et al., 2012; Tolenkhoma et al., 2012). The present investigation explores variations and the relationships among body dimensions in Diara buffalo using Principal Component Analysis(PCA) with varimax rotations aiming to eliminate redundant biometric traits. \r\nMATERIAL AND METHODS\r\nPlace of research. The Diara buffaloes belonging to the breeding tract lies between 25°N and 26°N latitude and between 84°E and 90°E longitude in the middle Gangetic plains of India were taken into present study. Different body measurements for 20 biometric traits from 2017 to 2019 were recorded on 400 adult animals of different sex. All measurements were recorded using measuring tape twice by the same recorder to minimize the error and to avoid between recorder effects. The Biometric traits of Diara buffalo Height at wither (HW) - Distance from the highest point of wither to the ground; Body length (BL) - Distance from the point of the shoulder joint to the point of the pin bone; Oblique Body length (BLO) - Distance from the point of the Neck to the point of the pin bone; Heart girth (HG) - Circumference of the heart circumference around the chest; Paunch girth (PG) - Circumference around the chest; Leg length (LG) - Distance from the point of the shoulder joint to ground; Neck length (NL) - Distance from neck attachment to breast; Neck diameter (ND) - Girth of the neck from mid neck; Face length (FL) - Distance from between the horn site to the lower lip; Face width (FW) - Distance between front of both the eyes; Ear length (EL) - Distance from the point of attachment of ear to the tip of the ear; Horn Length (HL) - Distance between base to tip of horn; Horn Circumstance (HC) – Circumference at base of horn; Distance between horns (DBH) – Distance between two horns; Hip Bone Length (HBL) – Distance between hip point to ischia point; Hip Height (HBH) - Distance between hip point to ground; Pin Bone Length (PBL) - Distance between left and right pin bone point; Distance between Hip and Pin Bone (DHP) - Distance between Hip point to Pin point; Tail length (TL) - Distance between base of tail to tip of tail excluding Swiss hair length; Tail length (TLS) - Distance between base of tail to tip of tail including Swiss hair length were recorded and taken into study. The data were standardized for outliers. No specimens had missing measurements. Ethical approval was not necessary as animals were minimally manipulated. Appropriate precautions were taken to avoid measuring unhealthy animals and pregnant females. While recording special care was taken to measure the animals in a vertical position on the flat surfaces. \r\nStatistical analysis. The data collected were analysed using fixed effect model, by considering district effect as fixed so as to adjust the data for significant effect of district if any as per following statistical model (Harvey, W. R. 1987). \r\nY_ij= µ + D_i + e_ij\r\nwhere, Y_ijis the phenotypic observation for one of the 16 Biometric traits, µ is the overall mean; D_iis fixed effect of District, while e_ijis the random error associated with each record which is NID (0,〖 σ〗_e^2). The main statistical values (Mean, standard deviation and coefficient of variation) of Biometric traits were calculated using the Pastec package of r-software. Pearson correlation coefficients and variance and covariance among the body measurements of Biometric traits were estimated. From variance and covariance matrix, the data required for Principal Component Analysis (PCA) was generated. The correlation matrix obtained was subjected to Bartlett’s sphericity test whether it was an identity matrix. \r\nPrinciple Component Analysis (PCA). The KMO test on the adequacy of sampling and the Bartlett’s test of Sphericity were computed to establish the validity of data set. The KMO value should be greater than 0.5 for statistical factor analysis to proceed; Bartlett’s test if it is significant it means that the correlation matrix is not an identity matrix. The goal of PCA is to replace a large number of correlated variables with a smaller number of uncorrelated variables while capturing as much information in the original variables as possible. These derived variables called principal components are linear combinations of the observed variables. Specifically, the first principal component\r\nPC1 = a1X1 + a2X2 + … + akXk\r\nis the weighted combination of the k observed variables that accounts for the most variance in the original set of variables Where, X was observed variables; a is a matrix of eigenvectors (weights). The second principal component is the linear combination that accounts for the most variance in the original variables under the constraint that it’s orthogonal (uncorrelated) to the first principal component. Each subsequent component maximizes the variance accounted for while at the same time remaining uncorrelated with all previous components. Theoretically, you can extract as many principal components as there are variables. Rotations of principal components was through the transformation of the components to approximate a simple structure. The raw varimax criterion of the orthogonal rotation method was employed for the rotation of the factor matrix (the aim of varimax rotation is to maximize the sum of variances of a quadratic weight). Scree test was used to retain number of principal components which lies above the bended elbow of scree plot. Further, principal components to be retained based on its obtained Eigenvalue > 1 criterion (Kaiser, 1958). Each observed variable contributes one unit of variance to the total variance. All analyses were performed using standard statistical and PCA procedure with different required packages available from R software. \r\nRESULTS AND DISCUSSION\r\nThe effect of non-genetic factor District was investigated in the study and presented non-significant effect on all traits. It indicates that different morphometric traits across districts of Diara buffalo are similar and not significantly different between each other. The descriptive statistics for all the biometric traits of Diaraalong with standard deviation (SD), coefficient of variation (CV) has been shown in Table 1. Mean of biometric traits (cm) studied in Diara buffaloes were 121.75 ± 4.35 for BH, 113.16 ± 6.34 for BL, 123.66 ± 6.56 for BLO, 173.83 ± 10.03 for CG, 196.33 ± 11.72 for PG, 72.41 ± 2.31 for LG, 41.33 ± 2.23 for NL, 80.5 ± 4.97 for ND, 41.08 ± 1.84 for FL, 17.25 ± 0.69 for FW, 24.91 ± 1.25 for EL, 27.41 ± 3.33 for HL, 15.5 ± 1.60 for HC, 27.41 ± 1.49 for DBH, 41.58 ± 3.59 for HBL, 120.08 ± 4.01 for HBH,23.75 ± 2.08 for PBL, 36.08 ± 1.83 for DHP, 82.08 ± 4.14 for TL and 92.5 ± 4.4 for TLS. Diara buffalo for morphometric traits. The obtained results are in agreement with Chandran et al. (2015). The means of biometric traits that Diara buffaloes were medium to larger in body size. Based on comparison of biometric traits, Diara buffalo are slightly smaller in height and length of Gojri buffaloes and Nilli Ravi buffaloes (Nivsarkar et al. 2000; Ahmad et al. 2013; Vohra et al., 2015). This may due to poor management condition given to Diara Buffalo and harsh climatic condition of the region. Results show that the higher value of CV% (>0.20%) in the biometric traits were found in CG, PG, HL, HC and HBL and the other traits had moderate values (0.10<CV<0.20) as presented. \r\nThe coefficient of variation (CV) for different morphometric traits ranges between 42.12% (horn length) to 12.39 (Height at wither). Majority of the biometric traits showed higher consistency except for horn length and horn circumference which were comparatively more variable. In gojri buffalo, slightly lower variation ranged between minimum and maximum 3.32% (FL) to 19.41 (HL) CV% was reported by Vohra et al. (2015). The higher variability of traits (CG, PG, HL, HC and HBL) may be attributed to the fact that selection was not applied for these traits or that these parts respond more to the environment than others. Face length had little variability which may be due to the fact that it is a cephalic measurement and its close association with cranial bone. Majority of body measurements showed moderate variability, indicating that Diara buffaloes are almost similar in their body size. The standard deviations were well within the normal range in Diara buffaloes. This indicated that body measurements were less affected by environment. All biometric traits presented moderate variability indicating that Diara are almost similar in shape and size in their natural habitat. This might be due to natural selection for better adaptability for particular shape and size. Similar finding was also reported by Vohra et al. 2015 in buffalo and Tolenkhomba et al. (2013) in cattle of North East region. The variation among breeds can be caused by the difference of genetic, nutrition, management system and climate. \r\nThe correlation coefficients between studied biometric traits are given in Table 2 (a) and (b). Correlation coefficient estimated ranged between 0.20 (TL and HC) to 0.98 (TL and TLS) among various biometric traits. A total of 189 correlations (in all combinations) were estimated. Among these 147 correlations were significant and positive (Table 3). These correlations among all 147 correlations were moderate to high in magnitude. All other correlations were low to moderate in magnitude. The result is in agreement with the findings of phenotypic correlations in Gojri buffalo with slight disagreements where few correlations were negative (Vohra et al. 2015). The proportions of correlations (more than 75%) between measurements of biometric traits were positive and significant respectively in Kankrej cows (Pundir et al., 2011) and local hill cattle. The positive and significant (p<0.05/0.01) correlations among different biometric traits suggest high predictability among the different traits. Further, varying estimates of correlations in biometric traits could be attributed to the fact that postnatal growth does not take place proportionality in all tissue categories or body regions within those tissue categories. \r\nThe PCA was applied on 20biometric traits of Diara Buffaloes. The value of KMO measure of sampling adequacy (MSA) was obtained as 0.907. This value fits with the acceptable threshold criterion of KMO (> 0.5) which permits to proceed with PCA analysis .The estimate of sampling adequacy KMO revealed the proportion of the variance in different biometric traits caused by the underlying components (Kaiser, 1958). The overall significance of the correlation matrix was tested with Bertlett’s test of sphericity for the biometric traits (chi-square was 3575.5 p<0.01) was significant, it means correlation matrix is not an identity matrix and provided enough support for the validity of the factor analysis of data. Yakubu et al. (2009) reported in close agreement of our estimates of sampling adequacy were 0.90 and 0.92 in age groups of 1.5 to 2.4 years and 2.5 to 3.6 years, respectively in White Fulani cattle. However, Vohra et al. (2015); Pundir et al. (2011) reported lower estimates of sampling adequacy as 0.74 in Gojri buffalo and 0.891 in Kankrej cows, respectively. \r\nThe eigenvalues and percentages of the explained variance and cumulated variance for body morphometric traits are presented in Table 3. The results show that the first three components accounted for 90% of the total variance whose the eigenvalues were greater than 1(>1). The remaining seventeen PCs had lower variance. The first (PC1), second (PC2) and third (PC3) principal components accounted for 75%, 9.00% and 6%, respectively of the total variance while the remaining 17 PCs jointly accounted for 10% of the total variation. Another criterion for determination of number of component is scree plot that could be used to decide the actual number of component to be retained for analysis. Scree plot can depict various components and the component having eigenvalue up to the bent of elbow are usually considered. Three Principal Components above the bend or elbow are indicated in plot (Fig. 1) which suggest its retention for extraction. Based on above criteria, three components are appropriate for summarizing the data of biometric traits of Diara buffalo. \r\nThe identified three components could explain cumulative percentage of variance of 90%. First component accounted for 75% of the variation. It was represented by significant positive high loading of BLO, BH, CG, HL, BL, HBH, NC, PG, NL, PBL, FL, TL, HB and DHP. The high loading of various traits indicates that length, height and diameter of Diara buffalo explain maximum of variation of biometric traits. First component seemed to be explaining the maximum of general body conformation in Diara Buffaloes. The second component explained 9% of total variance with high loading of biometric traits HC and EL. The extracted PCs with explaining 90% in our findings was slightly different than the reports of Vohra et al. (2015). They extracted four components in Gojri buffalo for a cumulative variance of 70.09%. \r\nAfter Varimax Rotation of the matrix of the components, three PCs with (eigenvalues greater than 1) explained 90% variations of 20 biometric traits of Diara buffalo. The identified three components after orthogonal Varimax rotation contribute 90% of total variation of 20 biometric traits of Diara buffalo. The result shows that extracted 3 PCs are sufficient to identify the groups of variables necessary to improve the genetic performance of Diara buffalo. First component (PC1) accounted for 48% of the variation. It was represented by significant positive high loading of PG, FW, NC, BLO, CG, BL, DBH, HBL, HBH, BH and HL. First component seemed to be explaining the maximum of general body conformation in Diara Buffaloes. The second component explained 14% of total variance with high loading of FL, EL and HC. The second PCs explaining head features of Diara buffalo which corroborated with result in Gojri buffalo (Vohra et al., 2015). The third component explained 28% variation of biometric traits with high loading of LG, NL and EL. Vohra et al. (2015) used factor analysis with Varimax rotation revealed 4 components in Gojri buffalo which explained about 70.86% which is slightly lower to the findings of present study in Diara Buffaloes. The extracted PCs sufficient to identify the groups of variables necessary to improve the genetic performance of Diara buffalo. \r\nThe communality ranged from 0.68 (LG) to 0.99 (BLO) for all these 20 different biometric traits of Diara buffalo. The principal PC1, PC2 and PC3 components together explain highest variation 90% in BLO trait and lowest 68% in LG trait. The extracted PCs sufficiently explained the variability of data. Similar communality ranged from 0.44 to 0.83 for 13 different biometric traits in Gojri buffalo was reported by Vohra et al. (2015). In Egyptian buffalo the communalities ranged from 0.96 (height at hips, HT) to 0.78 (rump width) Shahin et al. (1993). The lower estimates of communalities of LG and DBH indicated that these have less contribution in the variation of body conformation in Diara Buffaloes. The lower estimates of communalities were reported for HL and PG traits of body conformation in Gojri buffaloes by Vohra et al. (2015). The lower estimates of communality indicate that components have lesser contribution in explaining the variation of traits.\r\n','Singh, R.K., Kumar, B., Kumar, R., Kumar, S. and Mandal, K.G. (2020). Phenotypic Characterisation and Multivariate Analysis of Biometric Traits of Diara Buffalo of Bihar, India. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 12(1): 51-57.'),(4840,'60','Application of Promax Rotated Principal Component Analysis of Diara Buffalo','Ramesh Kumar Singh*, Birendra Kumar, Rajesh Kumar, Santosh Kumar and K.G. Mandal','25 Application of Promax Rotated Principal Component Analysis of Diara Buffalo Ramesh Kumar Singh.pdf','',1,'Diara buffalo population of Bihar reared around banks of Ganga rivers are adapted to the agro-climatic and socio-economic conditions of the state under low-input management system. Principal Components Analysis (PCA) with promax rotation was applied on 20 biometric traits in 400 Diara buffalo to reduce data dimensionality and eliminate redundant variables. The Diara buffalo were observed similar in shape and size and homogeneousness in phenotypes. The phenotypic correlations were found mostly positive in high magnitude and significant correlations. After the application of Oblique rotation. The number of biometric traits to be recorded in Diara buffaloes (BH, NL, BLO, CG, PG, FL, EL, HL, TL and TLS) in PC1 were sufficient for ranking of animals. Hence, Principal Component Analysis (PCA) could be used in breeding programs with a drastic reduction in the number of biometric traits to be recorded to explain the body conformation.','Promax, Morphometric, Traits, Principal Component Analysis, Buffalo, Bihar','-','INTRODUCTION \r\nDiara buffalo population of Bihar reared around banks of Ganga rivers are fully adapted to the agro-climatic and socio-economic conditions of the state under low-input management system with respect to the scarcity of feeds and fodder in flood situation and resistance to various diseases. The Bihar had presented increasing trend of milk production from 2012 to 2017 and has produced 8.7 million Tones milk (BAHS, 2017). The buffalo milk 3.35 million Tonnes produced in Bihar contributed 4.1% milk to total milk 81.2 Million Tonnes produced by buffaloes in India. The average milk yield productivity of Buffalo reported to be 4.3 Kg/day in Bihar which is lower than national average 5.23 Kg/day of India (BAHS, 2017). The improvements in productivity required to ensure livelihood security of rural people. The phenotypic characterization of domestic animals consists of describing the morphometric traits of buffalo population which dyers from other groups (Canelon, 2005). The measurement of morphometric traits helps to study the individual shape and sizes to segregate them distinct genetic group. In addition, this characterization explore variation, comparison between and inside genetic groups and establishes the association between the animal’s conformation and function. Body size and shape (conformation) are important traits in livestock animals. The data recording system is either lacking or in the initial stage in India. The pedigree and progeny information is limited and has not yet formed the basis for estimating reliable genetic parameters. Therefore, phenotypic information becomes imperative to clarify the relationship among morphometric traits (Ali et al., 1995). Body conformation by recording a minimum number of biometric traits which reduce the cost, labour and time is the need of the day. FAO have used height at withers (HT) as a prime indicator for their type (Simon and Buchenauer 1993). Analysis of variance and product moment correlations were widely used to characterize phenotypic and genetic relationships among traits in a breeding programme. The principal components analysis (PCA) is a multivariate technique that reduces the amount of originally-correlated variables into a smaller set of non-correlated variables while keeping most of the original variability and reducing the dimensionality to a new set of variables named principal components (PC) under the assumption of losing the least possible amount of information. When the original variables are highly correlated, the first PCs can explain most of the variation, thus allowing to eliminate redundant information (Meyer, 2007). The PCA allows lowering dimensionality of the variables, facilitating the interpretation of data in a few PC and identifying the type of relationship between the original variables (Agudelo-Gomez, 2015). It presents information about each morphometric variables in order of their merit. Buffalo morphometric traits can be used to predict the ability for commercial exploitation and when applied in breeding selection programs may contribute to creating an appropriate functional type. Therefore, the aim of this study was to reduce data dimensionality, eliminate redundant information and identify similarities using principal components analysis (PCA) with promax rotation. \r\nMATERIAL AND METHODS\r\nStudy area. The body linear traits were collected with direct observations and measurements of Diara buffalo in breeding tract. The Diara buffaloes belonging to the breeding tract lies between 25°N and 26°N latitude and between 84°E and 90°E longitude in the middle Gangetic plains of India were taken into present study. Surveys were conducted in 3 districts of the Bihar state i.e. Patna, Ara and Buxar. Diara Buffaloes were randomly selected in a range from first to fifth parity on the basis of availability at farmers. Different body measurements of morphometric traits were recorded on 400 adult animals of Diara buffalo. All measurements were taken by measuring tape and recorded twice by the same recorder to minimize the error and to avoid between recorder effects. The body linear traits of Diara buffalo viz. Height at wither (HW) - Distance from the highest point of wither to the ground; Body length (BL) - Distance from the point of the shoulder joint to the point of the pin bone; Oblique Body length (BLO) - Distance from the point of the neck to the point of the pin bone; Heart girth (HG) - Circumference of the heart circumference around the chest; Paunch girth (PG) - Circumference around the chest; Leg length (LG) - Distance from the point of the shoulder joint to ground; Neck length (NL) - Distance from neck attachment to breast; Neck diameter (ND) - Girth of the neck from mid neck; Face length (FL) - Distance from between the horn site to the lower lip; Face width (FW) - Distance between front of both the eyes; Ear length (EL) - Distance from the point of attachment of ear to the tip of the ear; Horn Length (HL) - Distance between base to tip of horn; Horn Circumstance (HC) – Circumference at base of horn; Distance between horns (DBH) – Distance between two horns; Hip Bone Length (HBL) – Distance between hip point to ischia point; Hip Height (HBH) - Distance between hip point to ground; Pin Bone Length (PBL) - Distance between left and right pin bone point; Distance between Hip and Pin Bone (DHP) - Distance between Hip point to Pin point; Tail length (TL) - Distance between base of tail to tip of tail excluding Swiss hair length; Tail length (TLS) - Distance between base of tail to tip of tail including Swiss hair length were recorded and taken into study. Only adult buffalo were included in this study to prevent the effect of age and gender. The all measurements were taken by a measuring tape in upright animal standing on a level ground. The body measurements of morphometric traits in buffalo were measured in centimetres and always on the left side of the animals using measuring tape. The data were standardized for outliers. No specimens had missing measurements. Ethical approval was not necessary as animals were minimally manipulated. The data were standardized for any missing values and outliers.\r\nStatistical analysis. The data collected were analysed using fixed effect model, by considering district effect as fixed so as to adjust the data for significant effect of district if any as per following statistical model (Harvey, 1987). \r\nY_ij= µ + D_i + e_ij\r\nwhere, Y_ij is the phenotypic observation for one of the 20 Biometric traits, µ is the overall mean; D_iis fixed effect of District, while e_ij is the random error associated with each record which is NID (0,〖 σ〗_e^2). The descriptive statistics Means and standard error were calculated. Peason’s correlations (r) among different morphometric traits were estimated. When the recorded data of the biometric traits were correlated then data for the Principal Component Analysis (PCA) were generated using variance-covariance matrix. \r\nPrinciple Component Analysis (PCA). The Bartlett’s test of Sphericity and the KMO index (Kaiser-Mayer-Olkin) tests were computed to establish the variability. The KMO should be greater than 0.5 for statistical factor analysis to proceed; Bartlett’s test if it is significant it means that the correlation matrix is not an identity matrix. The principal components are calculated through linear combinations of the morphometric variables. The absolute value of an eigenvector determines the importance of the traits in a principal component. Each eigenvector is calculated from an eigenvalue of the correlation matrix of the data, where the eigenvalues are related to the variance of each principal component (Rencher, 2002). PCA consists of transforming the set of original variables into a new set of variables which are linear functions of the original variables and independent of each other. Therefore, new variable is a principal component, calculated by linear combinations of the original variables with eigenvectors. The PCA was used to study the body conformation of the buffalo considering 20 body measurement traits. Rotation of principal factors was through the transformation of the factors to approximate a simple structure. Factor analysis using oblique (promax) rotation with power 3 employed for the rotation of the principal components matrix. Cumulative proportions of variance criterion were finally employed to determine the number of components to extract. Scree test was used to retain number of principal components which lies above the bended elbow of scree plot. Further, principal components to be retained based on its obtained Eigenvalue > 1 criterion (Kaiser, 1958). Each observed variable contributes one unit of variance to the total variance. If the eigenvalue is greater than 1, then each principal component explains at least as much variance as 1 observed variable. All analyses were performed using standard statistical and PCA procedure with different required packages available from R software. \r\nRESULTS AND DISCUSSION\r\nThe effect of non-genetic factor District was investigated in the study and presented non-significant effect on all traits. It indicated that different morphometric traits across districts of Diara buffalo are similar in shape and size and not significantly different between each other. The mean statistics for themorphometric traits of Diara along with standard error has been shown in Table 1. Mean of biometric traits (cm) studied in Diara buffaloes were 121.75 ± 4.35 for BH, 113.16 ± 6.34 for BL, 123.66 ± 6.56 for BLO, 173.83 ± 10.03 for CG, 196.33 ± 11.72 for PG, 72.41 ± 2.31 for LG, 41.33 ± 2.23 for NL, 80.5 ± 4.97 for ND, 41.08 ± 1.84 for FL, 17.25 ± 0.69 for FW, 24.91 ± 1.25 for EL, 27.41 ± 3.33 for HL, 15.5 ± 1.60 for HC, 27.41 ± 1.49 for DBH, 41.58 ± 3.59 for HBL, 120.08 ± 4.01 for HBH,23.75 ± 2.08 for PBL, 36.08 ± 1.83 for DHP, 82.08 ± 4.14 for TL and 92.5 ± 4.4 for TLS. The means of biometric traits that Diara buffaloes were medium to larger in body size. Based on comparison of biometric traits, Diara buffalo are slightly smaller in height and length of Gojri buffaloes and Nilli Ravi buffaloes (Nivsarkar et al. 2000; Ahmad et al. 2013; Vohra et al., 2015). This may due to poor management condition given to Diara Buffalo and harsh climatic condition of the region. The correlation coefficients between studied biometric traits are given in Table 2. Correlation coefficient estimated ranged between 0.20 (TL and HC) to 0.98 (TL and TLS) among various biometric traits. A total of 189 correlations (in all combinations) were estimated. Among these 147 correlations were significant and positive (Table 1 and 2). These correlations among all 147 correlations were moderate to high in magnitude. All other correlations were low to moderate in magnitude. The result is in agreement with the findings of phenotypic correlations with slight disagreements of Gojri buffalo where few correlations were negative (Vohra et al. 2015). The proportions of correlations (more than 75%) between measurements of biometric traits were positive and significant respectively in Kankrej cows (Pundhir et al. 2011) and local hill cattle (Tolenkhomba et al. 2013). The positive and significant (p<0.05/0.01) correlations among different biometric traits suggest high predictability among the different traits. Further, varying estimates of correlations in biometric traits could be attributed to the fact that postnatal growth does not take place proportionality in all tissue.\r\nThe PCA was applied on 20 biometric traits of Diara Buffaloes. The value of KMO measure of sampling adequacy (MSA) was obtained as 0.907. This value fits with the acceptable threshold criterion of KMO (> 0.5) which permits to proceed with PCA analysis. The estimate of sampling adequacy KMO revealed the proportion of the variance in different biometric traits caused by the underlying components (Kaiser, 1958). The overall significance of the correlation matrix was tested with Bertlett’s test of sphericity for the biometric traits (chi-square was 3575.5 p<0.01) was significant, it means correlation matrix is not an identity matrix and provided enough support for the validity of the factor analysis of data. Yakuba et al. (2009) reported in close agreement of our estimates of sampling adequacy were 0.90 and 0.92 in age groups of 1.5 to 2.4 years and 2.5 to 3.6 years, respectively in White Fulani cattle. However, Vohra et al. (2015); Pundir et al. (2011) reported lower estimates of sampling adequacy as 0.74 in Gojri buffalo and 0.891 in Kankrej cows, respectively. The percentages of the explained variances and cumulated variances for body morphometric traits are presented in Table no. 03. The results show that the first three components accounted for 90% of the total variance whose the eigenvalues were greater than 1(>1). The remaining seventeen PCs had lower variance. The second (PC2) and third (PC3) principal components accounted for 9% and 6%, respectively of the total variance while the remaining 17 PCs jointly accounted for 10% of the total variation.Another criterion for determination of number of component is scree plot that could be used to decide the actual number of component to be retained for analysis. Scree plot can depict various components and the component having eigenvalue up to the bent of elbow are usually considered. Three Principal Components above the bend or elbow are indicated in plot (Fig. 1) which suggest its retention for extraction. Based on above criteria, three components are appropriate for summarizing the data of biometric traits of Diara buffalo. The identified three components could explain cumulative percentage of variance of 90%. First component accounted for 75% of the variation. It was represented by significant positive high loading of BLO, BH, CG, HL, BL, HBH, NC, PG, NL, PBL, FL, TL, HBL and DHP. First component seemed to be explaining the maximum of general body conformation in Diara Buffaloes. The second component (PC2) explained 9% of total variance with high loading of distance between EL and HC. The third component (PC3) explained 6% of total variance with high loading of distance between FW and HC. Vohra et al. (2015) used factor analysis with promax rotation revealed 4 components which explained about 70.86% variation which is slightly lower to our finding but the total variation with first component explained 31.45% of total variation and was represented by significant positive high loading of height at wither (HW), BL, FL, FW, HL and CG in Gojri buffalo. In Egyptian buffalo bull Shahin et al. (1993) reported that most of the common variability (88%) in body dimensions could be accounted for by components representing general size, body depth and height and head width. Tolenkhomba et al. (2013) used factor analysis with promax rotation revealed 6 components which explained about 69.77% which is slightly lower to our finding but the total variation with first component explained 21.93% of total variation and was represented by significant positive high loading of height at wither, BL, heart girth, PG, and EL in local cattle of Manipur. \r\nThe proportion of total variance explained by first component was more in this study (75%) compared to by Tolenkhomba et al. (2013); Vohra et al. (2015). Yakubu et al. (2009) extracted 2 factors in the age group of 2.5 to 3.6 years explained 86.47% of the total variation by studying the 14 morphostructural traits of White Fulani cattle. These differences indicate that each population has its own characteristics. The selection criteria should be determined taking into account the specificity of population or breed. \r\nThe proportion of total variance explained by the first component was more in present investigation compared to earlier study Assam hill cattle (21.93%) and in Gojri buffalo (31.45) (Vohra et al. 2015) but lowered than those reported White Fulani cattle. The second component explained 9% of total variance with high loading of EL and HC. The proportion of total variance explained by the second component was less in present investigation compared to earlier study 17.15% in Gojri buffalo (Vohra et al., 2015). \r\nPromax Rotation of Principle Components. The identified three components after oblique rotation i.e. Promax could explain cumulative percentage of variance of 90%. First component accounted for 52% of the variation. It was represented by significant positive high loading of FW, PG, DBH, BLO, NC, CG, BL and HBL. First component seemed to explain length, height and depth of Diara buffalo. The second component explained 11% of total variance with high loading of EL and HC, traits. Vohra et al. (2015) used factor analysis with promax rotation revealed 4 components which explained about 70.86% which is slightly lower to our finding. The first component after Promax rotation explained 31.45% of total variation and was represented by significant positive high loading of height at wither (HW), BL, FL, FW, HL and CG in Gojri buffalo (Vohara et al. 2015). It is lower than the first component value of promax rotation obtained in Diara buffaloes. Tolenkhomba et al. (2013) used factor analysis with promax rotation revealed 6 components which explained about 69.77% which is slightly higher to our finding but the total variation with first component explained 21.93% of total variation and was represented by significant positive high loading of height at wither, BL, heart girth, PG, and EL in local cattle of Manipur. However, Yakubu et al. (2009) extracted two factors each explaining 86.47% of the total variation in White Fulani bulls. \r\nCommunality. The communality ranged from 0.99 (PG) to 0.68 (DBH) for all the 20 different morphometric traits. The obtained communality indicated that bulk portion of variance has been accounted for by the component solution. For BH, NL, BLO, CG, PG, FL, EL, HL, TL and TLS of their variance has been captured by three PCs. These traits possess more than 90 % communality being of same sign, the PC1seems to explain major portion of variation of Diara buffalo. Tolenkhomba et al. (2013) reported communality ranged from 0.59 (body length) to 0.85 (hind girth) in local bulls of Manipur. Similar estimates of communality (ranged from 0.79 to 0.93) were observed by Yakubu et al. (2009) in White Fulani cattle. \r\nThe inter-factor correlations between two components were positive and significant (0.65) between first and third components in Diara buffaloes. The application of Oblique characters (PC1) derived from the PCA can be more reliable in predicting body size compared to the use of the original body measurements. The three extracted factors determine the source of shared variability to explain body conformation in Diara buffaloes. These first PC could be exploited in the evaluation and comparison of animals and thus provide an opportunity to select the animals based on a small group of traits rather than on isolated traits. Our results suggest that the present PCA provided a means for a reduction in the number of biometric traits to be recorded in Diara buffaloes (BH, NL, BLO, CG, PG, FL, EL, HL, TL and TLS) which could be used in ranking programs as a mean to explain the body conformation. The results suggest that principal component analysis (PCA) could be used in breeding programs with a drastic reduction in the number of biometric traits to be recorded to explain the body conformation.\r\n','Singh, R.K., Kumar, B., Kumar, R., Kumar, S. and Mandal, K.G. (2019). Application of Promax Rotated Principal Component Analysis of Diara Buffalo. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 11(2): 179-185.'),(4841,'60','Production Performance and Body Morphometric Measurements in Diara Buffaloes of Bihar India','Ramesh Kumar Singh*, Birendra Kumar, Rajesh Kumar, Santosh Kumar and K.G. Mandal','26 Production Performance and Body Morphometric Measurements in Diara Buffaloes of Bihar India Ramesh Kumar Singh.pdf','',1,'Morphometric measurements of 20 traits of 400 Diara buffaloes of Bihar, India were recorded and used in analysis for phenotypic characterisation. Means and standard error were estimated for production, reproduction and morphometric traits of Diara buffalo. Peason’s correlations (r) among different morphometric traits were estimated and used for Principal Component Analysis (PCA). Lactation milk yield (Kg), Daily Milk Yield (Kg), Lactation length (days), Peak yield (Kg), Dry period (days), Calving interval (months), Age at first service (months), Age at first calving (months) and Service period (days) were estimated to be 1450.87 ± 28.12, 4.9 ± 0.4, 301.67 ± 12.87, 9.65 ± 0.33, 89.87 ± 4.25, 14.4 ± 0.13, 34.86 ± 0.78, 46.27 ± 0.63 and 131.31 ± 3.06, respectively. The Mean of biometric traits (cm) studied in Diara buffaloes were 121.75 ± 4.35 for BH, 113.16 ± 6.34 for BL, 123.66 ± 6.56 for BLO, 173.83 ± 10.03 for CG, 196.33 ± 11.72 for PG, 72.41 ± 2.31 for LG, 41.33 ± 2.23 for NL, 80.5 ± 4.97 for ND, 41.08 ± 1.84 for FL, 17.25 ± 0.69 for FW, 24.91 ± 1.25 for EL, 27.41 ± 3.33 for HL, 15.5 ± 1.60 for HC, 27.41 ± 1.49 for DBH, 41.58 ± 3.59 for HBL, 120.08 ± 4.01 for HBH,23.75 ± 2.08 for PBL, 36.08 ± 1.83 for DHP, 82.08 ± 4.14 for TL and 92.5 ± 4.4 for TLS. Correlation coefficient estimated ranged between 0.20 (TL and HC) to 0.98 (TL and TLS) among various biometric traits. Among all estimated phenotypic correlation, these 147 correlations were significant and positive. The positive and significant (p<0.05/0.01) correlations among different biometric traits suggest high predictability among the different traits. The first three PC explained 90 % of the original variance of 20 body linear traits of Diara buffalo. The first (PC1) second (PC2) and third (PC3) principal components accounted for 75%, 9% and 6% of the total variance, respectively. The traits represented in first PCs can be used in selection criteria and presented reduction in dimensionality of explanatory variables. ','Morphometric, Production, Diara, Buffaloes, Bihar','-','INTRODUCTION\r\nIndia harbors all the recognized and high milk producing breeds of buffalo of the world. More than half of the total buffalo population of India is classified as non-descript in the lack of characterization efforts. Similarly, the buffalo population of Bihar state of India placed under non-descript type in absence of systematic efforts of characterization. The buffalo in Bihar accounts for nearly 48% of the total milk production in the state (BAHS, 2017). This indicates that buffaloes in Bihar are efficient milk producers and an important Animal Genetic Resource for augmenting milk production in the state. Buffaloes are distributed throughout the length and breadth of the state but the area under South and North Gangetic plains of Bihar is densely populated with clusters of buffalo, phenotypically homogenous in certain characteristics, popularly known as Diara buffalo. They are well adapted to submerged condition of land in rainy season with water of the river Ganga. These buffalo are fully adapted to the agro-climatic and socio-economic conditions of the state under low-input management system in the Taal and Diara area of the river Ganges, Sone and Gandak. These populations of Diara buffalo required genetic improvement for augmenting milk production. Assessment of variability present in a population is vital and it is a basic component for working out conservation strategies and for designing genetic improvement programs for a particular population. The phenotypic characterization of domestic animals consists of describing the exterior traits of each group, differing from other groups when considered as a whole (Canelón, 2005). This characterization included the biometric measurements of sample animals body structure. The biometric body traits can be studied by using measurements with appropriate instruments which are called morphometric traits. Morphometric measurement allows identification of the individual conformation, allowing the racial characterization and classification of the population. In addition, this characterization allows the comparison between and within genetic groups and establishes the association between the animal’s conformation and function. These traits also contribute to the selection process in identifying the superior animals (Carvalho et al., 2010). The estimates of morphometric traits and correlations are reported scanty in literature (Espinosa-Núnês et al., 2011; Johari et al., 2009; Vohra et al., 2015; Mirza et al., 2015; Dhillod et al. (2017) which required for formulation of genetic improvement programmes. As reported by Agudelo-Gómez et al. (2015) the body measurements of female buffaloes and their correlations can aid in predicting the potential and aptitudes of these animals. There is some association between the body measurements, the productive and reproductive traits in buffaloes (Thomas and Chakravarty 2000; Espinosa-Núnês et al., 2011; Kern et al., 2014) and in cattle (Wenceslau et al., 2000; Lagrotta et al., 2010). Productive and Reproductive traits are economically important for sustainable productivity and profitability from buffalo. \r\nThe demand of products of buffalo milk is on rise for its flavor and healthy food to human. The understanding of variation of production and Reproduction traits is essential to improve production levels by forming suitable breeding strategies (Lopes et al., 2008). The phenotypic information on conformation traits becomes imperative when pedigreed phenotypic information on productive and reproductive traits unavailable to enhance the productivity of animals (Yakubu and Ayoade 2009). Analysis of variance and product moment correlations are widely used to characterize phenotypic and genetic relationships among traits in a breeding program (Yakubu et al., 2011). However, principal component analysis is a more refined technique for analyzing data on linear body measurements and performances (Posta et al., 2007). Principal components are linear combinations of the original traits and are estimated in such a way that the first principal component can explain the largest percentage of the total phenotypic variance. This paves way for the explanation and identification of trait groups, which can allow a quantitative measure for animal conformation with fewer parameters. The resulting principal components or loading may decrease the dimension of the explanatory variables. Diara buffalo required to be characterized and documented for exploring the variability of traits and need to be identified important morphometric traits to formulate improvement and conservation programme. The present investigation explores the variation of productive and reproductive traits and to identify the redundant morphometric traits with principal component analysis to aid buffalo selection programs. \r\nMATERIAL AND METHODS\r\nPlace of research. The Diara buffaloes belonging to the breeding tract lies between 25°N and 26°N latitude and between 84°E and 90°E longitude in the middle Gangetic plains of India were taken into present study. The data was collected from 3 districts of the Bihar state i.e. Patna, Ara and Buxar. Diara Buffaloes were randomly selected in a range from first to fifth parity on the basis of availability at farmers. Performance traits like lactation yield, daily milk yield, lactation length, peak yield, dry period, calving interval, age at first calving, age at first service and service period were collected by conversing with the farmers from the surveyed villages. Different body measurements and physical characteristics were recorded on 400 adult animals of different sex during the period of years 2017 - 2019. All measurements were taken by measuring tape and recorded twice by the same recorder to minimize the error and to avoid between recorder effects. The morphometric traits of Diara buffalo (buffalo Height at wither (HW) - Distance from the highest point of wither to the ground; Body length (BL) - Distance from the point of the shoulder joint to the point of the pin bone; Oblique Body length (BLO) - Distance from the point of the Neck to the point of the pin bone; Heart girth (HG) - Circumference of the heart circumference around the chest; Paunch girth (PG) - Circumference around the chest; Leg length (LG) - Distance from the point of the shoulder joint to ground; Neck length (NL) - Distance from neck attachment to breast; Neck diameter (ND) - Girth of the neck from mid neck; Face length (FL) - Distance from between the horn site to the lower lip; Face width (FW) - Distance between front of both the eyes; Ear length (EL) - Distance from the point of attachment of ear to the tip of the ear; Horn Length (HL) - Distance between base to tip of horn; Horn Circumstance (HC) - Circumference at base of horn; Distance between horns (DBH) – Distance between two horns; Hip Bone Length (HBL) - Distance between hip point to ischia point; Hip Height (HBH) - Distance between hip point to ground; Pin Bone Length (PBL) - Distance between left and right pin bone point; Distance between Hip and Pin Bone (DHP) - Distance between Hip point to Pin point; Tail length (TL) - Distance between base of tail to tip of tail excluding Swiss hair length; Tail length (TLS) - Distance between base of tail to tip of tail including Swiss hair length were recorded and taken into study. The data were standardized for any missing values and outliers.\r\nStatistical analysis. The data collected were analysed using fixed effect model, by considering district effect as fixed so as to adjust the data for significant effect of district if any as per following statistical model (Harvey, 1987). \r\nY_ij= µ + D_i + e_ij\r\nwhere, Y_ijis the phenotypic observation for one of the morphometric Biometric traits, µ is the overall mean; D_iis fixed effect of District, while e_ijis the random error associated with each record which is NID (0,〖 σ〗_e^2). Means and standard error were calculated. Peason’s correlations (r) among different morphometric traits were estimated. When the recorded data of the morphometric traits were highly correlated then data for the Principal Component Analysis (PCA) were generated using variance-covariance matrix. \r\nPrinciple Component Analysis (PCA). The data is further checked for sample adequacy using Bartlett’s Sphericity and the KMO index (Kaiser-Mayer-Olkin) tests for checking of data suitability for Principle Component Analysis (PCA). Principal Component Analysis (PCA) which reduces the dimensionality of a data set was used. The PCA can explain relationships between different body morphometric traits in a better way. The derived variables in PCA called principal components are linear combinations of the observed variables. The PCA equation as follows \r\nPCp = a1pX1 + a2pX2 + … + anpXn\r\nWhere PCp is the weighted combination of the n observed variables that accounts for the most variance in the original set of variables Where, X was observed variables; a is a matrix of eigenvectors (weights). The second principal component is the linear combination that accounts for the most variance in the original variables under the constraint that it’s orthogonal (uncorrelated) to the first principal component. Each subsequent component maximizes the variance accounted for while at the same time remaining uncorrelated with all previous components. Theoretically, you can extract as many principal components as there are variables. Each observed variable contributes one unit of variance to the total variance. If the eigenvalue is greater than 1, then each principal component explains at least as much variance as 1 observed variable. All the statistical analyses were implemented using algorithms available in R software.\r\nRESULTS AND DISCUSSION\r\nThe descriptive statistics for all the production and reproduction performances of Diara buffalo was presented Table no 01 along standard error. Diara buffaloes are moderate milk producers and normally give four to nine litres of milk daily. The average peak yield was obtained 9.65 Kg per day. The average daily milk yield was 4.9 ± 0.4 Kg as reported by the farmers. The length of lactation varied from 210 to more than 340 days with an average of 301.6±10.3 days. The lactation milk yield varied from 1008.4±95.7 to 1635.6±112 litres with a mean of 1450.87±28.7 Kg. Diara buffaloes have relatively long productive life spans as demonstrated by animals with more than five calvings commonly found in the villages. Age at first calving and calving interval was estimated to be 46.27 ± 0.63 months and 14.4 ± 0.13 months, respectively. The dry period, average age at first service and service period was estimated to be 89.87±4.25 days, 34.86±0.78 months and 131.31±3.06 days. The different traits estimated above are in agreement with Chandran et al. (2015) in Diara Buffalo. These findings suggest that Diara buffalo appeared as moderate performer for production and reproduction traits. \r\nThe effect of non-genetic factor District was investigated in the study and presented non-significant effect on all traits. It indicates that different morphometric traits across districts of Diara buffalo are similar and not significantly different between each other. The mean and standard error of 20 morphometric traits of adult Diara buffalo are presented in Table 2. \r\nThe Mean of biometric traits (cm) studied in Diara buffaloes were 121.75 ± 4.35 for BH, 113.16 ± 6.34 for BL, 123.66 ± 6.56 for BLO, 173.83 ± 10.03 for CG, 196.33 ± 11.72 for PG, 72.41 ± 2.31 for LG, 41.33 ± 2.23 for NL, 80.5 ± 4.97 for ND, 41.08 ± 1.84 for FL, 17.25 ± 0.69 for FW, 24.91 ± 1.25 for EL, 27.41 ± 3.33 \r\nfor HL, 15.5 ± 1.60 for HC, 27.41 ± 1.49 for DBH, 41.58 ± 3.59 for HBL, 120.08 ± 4.01 for HBH,23.75 ± 2.08 for PBL, 36.08 ± 1.83 for DHP, 82.08 ± 4.14 for TL and 92.5 ± 4.4 for TLS. The obtained results are in agreement with Chandran et al. (2015). The means of biometric traits that Diara buffaloes were medium to larger in body size. Based on comparison of biometric traits, Diara buffalo are slightly smaller in height and length of Gojri buffaloes and Nilli Ravi buffaloes (Nivsarkar et al. 2000; Ahmad et al. 2013; Vohra et al. 2015). This may due to poor management condition given to Diara Buffalo and harsh climatic condition of the region. \r\nCorrelation coefficient. The phenotypic correlation coefficients between studied biometric traits are given in Table 3 (a) and 3 (b). Correlation coefficient estimated ranged between 0.20 (TL and HC) to 0.98 (TL and TLS) among various biometric traits. A total of 189 correlations (in all combinations) were estimated. Among these 147 correlations were significant and positive (Table 3 a & b). These correlations among all 147 correlations were moderate to high in magnitude. All other correlations were low to moderate in magnitude. The result is in agreement with the findings of phenotypic correlations in Diara buffalo with slight disagreements of Gojri buffalo where few correlations were negative (Vohra et al. 2015).The positive and significant (p<0.05/0.01) correlations among different biometric traits suggest high predictability among the different traits.Further, varying estimates of correlations in morphometric traits could be attributed to the fact that postnatal growth does not take place proportionality in all tissue categories or body regions within those tissue categories. PCA was performed using values of 20 body linear traits of Diara buffalo. The obtained eigenvalues and variance proportions for the principal components (PC) of 20 body linear traits are presented in Table 4. The first three PCs had eigenvalues greater than one, and explained 90 % of the original variance of 20 body linear traits of Diara buffalo. The obtained 3 PCs presented their usefulness to reduce dimensionality. The remaining 17 PCs had lower variance (10%). The first (PC1), second (PC2) and third (PC3) principal components accounted for 75%, 9% and 6% of the total variance, respectively, while the remaining PCs jointly accounted for 10% of the total variation. The morphometric traits BH, NL, NC, BL, BLO, CG, PG, FL, HL, HBH, PBL and TL had high loading in first PCs. These traits reflect height, length and diameter of Diara buffalo. In similar study, Vohra et al. (2015) obtained 4 PCs explaining 70% of the total variance after analyzing 13 morphometric traits of Gojri buffalo. In present study, the first Principal Component (PC1) explaining 75% of bulk of total variation. It suggesting that PC1 could be used in evaluation and comparison of morphometric traits and for selection of animals. According to the report by Val and Ferraudo (2008), the first two PCs comprised 70.33% of the total variation of six traits associated with meat production and one trait associated to breeding in Nellore cattle. Three PCs accounted for 100% of the additive genetic variance of nine traits associated with meat production in Nellore cattle (Boligon et al., 2013). Oliveira et al. (2014) evaluated seven productive and two reproductive traits of buffaloes in Brazil concluding that a reduced rank model with 3 or 4 PCs was sufficient to explain the largest percentage of the additive genetic variance for all the traits. According to the results of this study, Diara buffaloes were medium to larger in body size and moderate in production. The positive and significant (p<0.05/0.01) correlations among different biometric traits exist which suggest high predictability among the different traits. In PCA analysis, the first three PC explained 90% of the original variance of 20 body linear traits of Diara buffalo. The first (PC1) second (PC2) and third (PC3) principal components accounted for 75%, 9% and 6% of the total variance, respectively. The Principal Component showed its usefulness in reduction of dimensionality of data. The first principal components (PC1) is sufficient to describe structure and size of Diara buffalo. This first principal components (PC1) have high loading of the morphometric traits BH, NL, NC, BL, BLO, CG, PG, FL, HL, HBH, PBL and TL. These traits can be used as selection criteria and resulted into reduction of explanatory variables. ','Singh, R.K., Kumar, B., Kumar, R., Kumar, S. and Mandal, K.G. (2019). Production Performance and Body Morphometric Measurements in Diara Buffaloes of Bihar India. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 11(2): 186-191.'),(4842,'125','Evaluation of Mungbean (Vigna radiata L. Wilczek) Genotypes Grown under Saline conditions','Chander Kanta Kumawat* and D.K. Gothwal','51 Evaluation of Mungbean _Vigna radiata L. Wilczek_ Genotypes Grown under Saline Conditions Chander Kanta Kumawat.pdf','',4,'Mungbean is a major pulse crop which provides dietary protein and many essential nutrients. It fixes biological nitrogen in soil and improves soil health but, sensitive to saline condition. The increased salinity of arable land is expected to have devastating global effects, resulting in up to 50 % land loss by the middle of the twenty-first century. The highest GCV and PCV were obtained for root dry weight, root fresh weight and root length and highest genetic advance as percentage of mean (GA) was obtained for seedling vigour index, shoot dry weight and shoot fresh weight. According to D-value the character shoot dry weight was the most sensitive under salinity and genotypes MVM-2 is more tolerant to salinity followed by RMG-1099 and RMG-1101 on the basis of reduction in mean value of shoot dry weight as compared to control.','GCV, Mungbean, PCV, Salinity, Variability','The present investigation indicated that pooled analysis of variance showed significant differences among genotypes, salinity levels as well as the interactions between genotype × salinity levels. Different variability parameters viz., GCV, PCV, h2 and GA as percentage of mean showed differential response to salinity levels. The development of salt-tolerant variety of mungbean is a cheaper and easier technology to overcome the reduce productivity in saline soil. Selection based on variability parameters and D-value will be use for selection of salt tolerant genotypes, although use of molecular marker linked with salinity tolerant QTLs or genes are more appropriate techniques to obtain saline tolerance genotypes when it combined to conventional morphological approach, where trials should also be evaluated under different field conditions by creating sick plots of salinity. \r\nFuture scope: Salt tolerant genotypes MVM-2, RMG-1099 and RMG-1101will be involved in different breeding program of mungbean to develop elite salt tolerant variety of mugbean after extensive field trial under saline condition.\r\n','INTRODUCTION\r\nMungbean is an important short duration (65-90 days) legume crop of high nutritive values. It maintains soil fertility through biological nitrogen fixation in soil and thus plays a vital role in sustainable agriculture (Kannaiyan, 1999). Protein malnutrition remains a major nutrition problem in Asia and affects children most severely (WHO, 2000). Mungbean is a cheap source of protein and important nutritious dietary component of vegetarians in Asian countries especially in South- East Asia (Keatinge et al., 2011). Salinity is a main constraint in the production of mungbean where, 50 M NaCl can cause yield losses up to 70 % (Saha et al., 2010). Higher accumulation of salt decrease the osmotic potential of soil solution causing water stress in plants and further interactions of the salts with mineral nutrition cause nutrient imbalance and deficiencies, oxidative stress ultimately leading to plant death as a consequence of growth arrest and metabolic damage (Zhu, 2001; Tavakkoli et al., 2010; Hasanuzzaman et al., 2012). Salt stress alters plant growth and morphology, photosynthetic capacity, cell membrane integrity, cellular enzyme protection system and many physiological and biochemical activities (Chen et al., 2007). Levels of proteins, secondary metabolites, osmolytes, photosynthetic pigments, membrane damage and antioxidants were reduced at higher salt concentrations increased under salinity (Mankar et al., 2021).\r\nA study on variability among available genotypes is the pre-requisite for initiating a varietal development programme. Hence, it is necessary to analyses the nature and magnitude of the heritable genetic variation present among the genotypes. D-value represent the salinity stress index was used to find out the most tolerant genotype of mungbean. Mankar et al., (2021) reported that germination and early seedling stage was more authentic to identify salt-tolerant mungbean varieties. The crosses between parents with maximum genetic diversity were generally the most responsive for genetic improvement (Arunachalam, 1981). An attempt was made to evaluate mungbean genotypes for their reaction to salt stress and to assess the genetic variability for salinity tolerance.\r\nDue to complex nature of salinity stress and lack of appropriate techniques for introgression less progress has been made in developing salt stress varieties (Singh and Singh, 2011). Therefore, the general objective of this study was to assess the genetic variability and identify the salinity tolerant genotypes among some mungbean genotypes. \r\nMATERIALS AND METHODS\r\nA laboratory experiment during Kharif (2018-19) was carried out at Department of Plant Breeding and Genetics, S.K.N. College of Agriculture, Jobner at 32.3°C temperature and 53 % relative humidity. The seeds of 10 genotypes of mungbean viz., RMG-1095, RMG-1078, RMG-975, MSJ-118, RMG-976, RMG-1101, MVM-2, RMG-1079, RMG-1099 and RMG-492 were surface sterilized by using 0.1 % mercuric chloride followed by three time rinsing with tap water. The three salinity levels were 0.0 % (control), 0.2 % and 0.4 % NaCl created by supplementing 0, 2 and 4 g NaCI to 1000 ml of double distilled water, respectively. The experiment was carried out in completely randomized design (CRD) with three replications. The observations were taken on 17th day after sowing. The methods used for recording observations are described below: \r\nA seed was considered as germinated at the emergence of both radicle and plumule up to 2 mm length (Chartzoulakis and Klapaki, 2000). The germination was recorded on 7th day of planting and germination percentage (GP) was determined by using the following formula (Aniat et al., 2012).\r\nOn 17th day observations taken on various seedling characters viz; shoot length, root length, seedling length, shoot fresh weight, root fresh weight, seedling fresh weight, shoot dry weight, root dry weight, seedling dry weight. The root length/ shoot length ratio of seedling was calculated by the following formula.\r\n\"Root length/Shoot length ratio = \" RL/SL\r\nThe seedling vigour index was determined by the following formula (Iqbal and Rahmati, 1992): \r\n Seedling vigour index (SVI) = (RL+SL) × (GP)\r\nD – Value. This represents salinity stress intensity and was derived by following formula:\r\n\"D=1- \" \"Y\" _\"j\" /\"Y\" _\"c\" \r\nWhere, \r\nYj = Mean performance of a concerned character of all the genotypes in the salt stress environment\r\nYc = Mean performance of a concerned character of all the genotypes in the normal environment\r\nThe data obtained were subjected to analysis of variance following standard statistical methods (Panse and Sukhatme 1985) and the significant difference among the mean value were compared by least significant difference (LSD) test (P<0.05). Variability parameters were calculated by using various formulae given by Burton (1952); Johnson et al. (1955).\r\nRESULTS AND DISCUSSION\r\nThe pooled ANOVA of mungbean genotypes showed significant difference among the genotypes and all salinity levels for all the characters, indicated that genotypes showed differential response to different salinity levels (Table 1). Similar findings were also reported by Gogile et al., (2013), in lentil by Tesfaye et al. (2015), in munbean by Hapsari and Trustinah (2018) for most of the characters. \r\nIn mungbean all the characters under study showed variation at different levels of salinity (Table 2). Variability parameters for germination percentage were higher at highest salinity level (Fig. 1). Similar variation for germination percentage was reported by Kandil et al. (2012); Sehrawat et al., (2014); Kamrul et al., (2018) in mungbean. Variability parameters were increased with advancement of salinity levels in mungbean for germination percentage and seedling characteristics viz., root length (Fig. 2), shoot length (Fig. 3), seedling length (Fig. 4), shoot fresh weight (Fig. 5), root fresh weight (Fig. 6), seedling fresh weight (Fig. 7), root dry weight (Fig. 8), shoot dry \r\nweight (Fig. 9), seedling dry weight (Fig. 10) root length/shoot length ratio (Fig. 11) and seedling vigour index (Fig. 12) and similar results were widely reported in mungbean (Subashree et al., 2021); (Swarnakar, 2016), in lentil, chickpea and faba bean (Arslan et al., 2016), in cowpea (Haleem, 2015), in Pisum sativum var. abyssinicum and Lathyrus sativus (Tsegay and Gebreslassie 2014), in moth bean and mung bean (Saroj and Soumana 2014). \r\nIn general PCV were higher than GCV for all the characters indicating a positive effect of environment on the expression of characters. The highest GCV was obtained in root dry weight followed by root fresh weight and root length and highest PCV was obtained in root dry weight followed by root fresh weight and root length. Lowest GCV was obtained for shoot length followed by germination percentage and seedling length and lowest PCV was obtained for seedling length followed by shoot length and root length/shoot length ratio across the salinity gradients. Huda et al., (2017) in rice under saline condition reported higher percentage of GCV and PCV for root dry weight. Kumawat and Gothwal (2018) reported lowest GCV for germination percentage which was similar with investigated results.\r\nHeritability in broad sense was generally increased with increasing salinity level for germination percentage, seedling length, seedling fresh weight, shoot dry weight, root length/shoot length ratio and seedling vigour index. Characters having high heritability were not more affected by the environment (Chen et al., 2007). Increase in heritability with increased salinity level indicated that variability was increased as advancement in salinity level due to expression of gene for salinity tolerance (Saranga et al., 1992; Foolad 1996; Khan et al., 2003).\r\n Increasing trend in genetic advance with increasing salinity level for most of the traits indicated that higher variability was obtained at higher salinity level therefore; selection at higher salinity level is more responsive for obtaining salinity tolerant genotypes (Kumawat and Gothwal 2018; Gupta 1994). On the basis of D-value (Table 3) the characters shoot dry weight was the most sensitive under salinity. It is suggested that major emphasis should be given on shoot dry weight while screening for salinity tolerance. According to reduction in mean value of shoot dry weight as compared to control genotypes (Table 4) mungbean genotypes MVM-2 is more tolerant to salinity followed by RMG-1099 and RMG-1101. \r\n','Chander Kanta Kumawat and D.K. Gothwal (2022). Evaluation of Mungbean (Vigna radiata L. Wilczek) Genotypes Grown Under Saline Conditions. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 14(2): 287-292.'),(4843,'125','Evaluation of Mungbean (Vigna radiata L. Wilczek) Genotypes Grown under Saline conditions','Chander Kanta Kumawat* and D.K. Gothwal','51 Evaluation of Mungbean _Vigna radiata L. Wilczek_ Genotypes Grown under Saline Conditions Chander Kanta Kumawat.pdf','',1,'Mungbean is a major pulse crop which provides dietary protein and many essential nutrients. It fixes biological nitrogen in soil and improves soil health but, sensitive to saline condition. The increased salinity of arable land is expected to have devastating global effects, resulting in up to 50 % land loss by the middle of the twenty-first century. The highest GCV and PCV were obtained for root dry weight, root fresh weight and root length and highest genetic advance as percentage of mean (GA) was obtained for seedling vigour index, shoot dry weight and shoot fresh weight. According to D-value the character shoot dry weight was the most sensitive under salinity and genotypes MVM-2 is more tolerant to salinity followed by RMG-1099 and RMG-1101 on the basis of reduction in mean value of shoot dry weight as compared to control.','GCV, Mungbean, PCV, Salinity, Variability','The present investigation indicated that pooled analysis of variance showed significant differences among genotypes, salinity levels as well as the interactions between genotype × salinity levels. Different variability parameters viz., GCV, PCV, h2 and GA as percentage of mean showed differential response to salinity levels. The development of salt-tolerant variety of mungbean is a cheaper and easier technology to overcome the reduce productivity in saline soil. Selection based on variability parameters and D-value will be use for selection of salt tolerant genotypes, although use of molecular marker linked with salinity tolerant QTLs or genes are more appropriate techniques to obtain saline tolerance genotypes when it combined to conventional morphological approach, where trials should also be evaluated under different field conditions by creating sick plots of salinity. \r\nFuture scope: Salt tolerant genotypes MVM-2, RMG-1099 and RMG-1101will be involved in different breeding program of mungbean to develop elite salt tolerant variety of mugbean after extensive field trial under saline condition.\r\n','INTRODUCTION\r\nMungbean is an important short duration (65-90 days) legume crop of high nutritive values. It maintains soil fertility through biological nitrogen fixation in soil and thus plays a vital role in sustainable agriculture (Kannaiyan, 1999). Protein malnutrition remains a major nutrition problem in Asia and affects children most severely (WHO, 2000). Mungbean is a cheap source of protein and important nutritious dietary component of vegetarians in Asian countries especially in South- East Asia (Keatinge et al., 2011). Salinity is a main constraint in the production of mungbean where, 50 M NaCl can cause yield losses up to 70 % (Saha et al., 2010). Higher accumulation of salt decrease the osmotic potential of soil solution causing water stress in plants and further interactions of the salts with mineral nutrition cause nutrient imbalance and deficiencies, oxidative stress ultimately leading to plant death as a consequence of growth arrest and metabolic damage (Zhu, 2001; Tavakkoli et al., 2010; Hasanuzzaman et al., 2012). Salt stress alters plant growth and morphology, photosynthetic capacity, cell membrane integrity, cellular enzyme protection system and many physiological and biochemical activities (Chen et al., 2007). Levels of proteins, secondary metabolites, osmolytes, photosynthetic pigments, membrane damage and antioxidants were reduced at higher salt concentrations increased under salinity (Mankar et al., 2021).\r\nA study on variability among available genotypes is the pre-requisite for initiating a varietal development programme. Hence, it is necessary to analyses the nature and magnitude of the heritable genetic variation present among the genotypes. D-value represent the salinity stress index was used to find out the most tolerant genotype of mungbean. Mankar et al., (2021) reported that germination and early seedling stage was more authentic to identify salt-tolerant mungbean varieties. The crosses between parents with maximum genetic diversity were generally the most responsive for genetic improvement (Arunachalam, 1981). An attempt was made to evaluate mungbean genotypes for their reaction to salt stress and to assess the genetic variability for salinity tolerance.\r\nDue to complex nature of salinity stress and lack of appropriate techniques for introgression less progress has been made in developing salt stress varieties (Singh and Singh, 2011). Therefore, the general objective of this study was to assess the genetic variability and identify the salinity tolerant genotypes among some mungbean genotypes. \r\nMATERIALS AND METHODS\r\nA laboratory experiment during Kharif (2018-19) was carried out at Department of Plant Breeding and Genetics, S.K.N. College of Agriculture, Jobner at 32.3°C temperature and 53 % relative humidity. The seeds of 10 genotypes of mungbean viz., RMG-1095, RMG-1078, RMG-975, MSJ-118, RMG-976, RMG-1101, MVM-2, RMG-1079, RMG-1099 and RMG-492 were surface sterilized by using 0.1 % mercuric chloride followed by three time rinsing with tap water. The three salinity levels were 0.0 % (control), 0.2 % and 0.4 % NaCl created by supplementing 0, 2 and 4 g NaCI to 1000 ml of double distilled water, respectively. The experiment was carried out in completely randomized design (CRD) with three replications. The observations were taken on 17th day after sowing. The methods used for recording observations are described below: \r\nA seed was considered as germinated at the emergence of both radicle and plumule up to 2 mm length (Chartzoulakis and Klapaki, 2000). The germination was recorded on 7th day of planting and germination percentage (GP) was determined by using the following formula (Aniat et al., 2012).\r\nOn 17th day observations taken on various seedling characters viz; shoot length, root length, seedling length, shoot fresh weight, root fresh weight, seedling fresh weight, shoot dry weight, root dry weight, seedling dry weight. The root length/ shoot length ratio of seedling was calculated by the following formula.\r\n\"Root length/Shoot length ratio = \" RL/SL\r\nThe seedling vigour index was determined by the following formula (Iqbal and Rahmati, 1992): \r\n Seedling vigour index (SVI) = (RL+SL) × (GP)\r\nD – Value. This represents salinity stress intensity and was derived by following formula:\r\n\"D=1- \" \"Y\" _\"j\" /\"Y\" _\"c\" \r\nWhere, \r\nYj = Mean performance of a concerned character of all the genotypes in the salt stress environment\r\nYc = Mean performance of a concerned character of all the genotypes in the normal environment\r\nThe data obtained were subjected to analysis of variance following standard statistical methods (Panse and Sukhatme 1985) and the significant difference among the mean value were compared by least significant difference (LSD) test (P<0.05). Variability parameters were calculated by using various formulae given by Burton (1952); Johnson et al. (1955).\r\nRESULTS AND DISCUSSION\r\nThe pooled ANOVA of mungbean genotypes showed significant difference among the genotypes and all salinity levels for all the characters, indicated that genotypes showed differential response to different salinity levels (Table 1). Similar findings were also reported by Gogile et al., (2013), in lentil by Tesfaye et al. (2015), in munbean by Hapsari and Trustinah (2018) for most of the characters. \r\nIn mungbean all the characters under study showed variation at different levels of salinity (Table 2). Variability parameters for germination percentage were higher at highest salinity level (Fig. 1). Similar variation for germination percentage was reported by Kandil et al. (2012); Sehrawat et al., (2014); Kamrul et al., (2018) in mungbean. Variability parameters were increased with advancement of salinity levels in mungbean for germination percentage and seedling characteristics viz., root length (Fig. 2), shoot length (Fig. 3), seedling length (Fig. 4), shoot fresh weight (Fig. 5), root fresh weight (Fig. 6), seedling fresh weight (Fig. 7), root dry weight (Fig. 8), shoot dry \r\nweight (Fig. 9), seedling dry weight (Fig. 10) root length/shoot length ratio (Fig. 11) and seedling vigour index (Fig. 12) and similar results were widely reported in mungbean (Subashree et al., 2021); (Swarnakar, 2016), in lentil, chickpea and faba bean (Arslan et al., 2016), in cowpea (Haleem, 2015), in Pisum sativum var. abyssinicum and Lathyrus sativus (Tsegay and Gebreslassie 2014), in moth bean and mung bean (Saroj and Soumana 2014). \r\nIn general PCV were higher than GCV for all the characters indicating a positive effect of environment on the expression of characters. The highest GCV was obtained in root dry weight followed by root fresh weight and root length and highest PCV was obtained in root dry weight followed by root fresh weight and root length. Lowest GCV was obtained for shoot length followed by germination percentage and seedling length and lowest PCV was obtained for seedling length followed by shoot length and root length/shoot length ratio across the salinity gradients. Huda et al., (2017) in rice under saline condition reported higher percentage of GCV and PCV for root dry weight. Kumawat and Gothwal (2018) reported lowest GCV for germination percentage which was similar with investigated results.\r\nHeritability in broad sense was generally increased with increasing salinity level for germination percentage, seedling length, seedling fresh weight, shoot dry weight, root length/shoot length ratio and seedling vigour index. Characters having high heritability were not more affected by the environment (Chen et al., 2007). Increase in heritability with increased salinity level indicated that variability was increased as advancement in salinity level due to expression of gene for salinity tolerance (Saranga et al., 1992; Foolad 1996; Khan et al., 2003).\r\n Increasing trend in genetic advance with increasing salinity level for most of the traits indicated that higher variability was obtained at higher salinity level therefore; selection at higher salinity level is more responsive for obtaining salinity tolerant genotypes (Kumawat and Gothwal 2018; Gupta 1994). On the basis of D-value (Table 3) the characters shoot dry weight was the most sensitive under salinity. It is suggested that major emphasis should be given on shoot dry weight while screening for salinity tolerance. According to reduction in mean value of shoot dry weight as compared to control genotypes (Table 4) mungbean genotypes MVM-2 is more tolerant to salinity followed by RMG-1099 and RMG-1101. \r\n','Chander Kanta Kumawat and D.K. Gothwal (2022). Evaluation of Mungbean (Vigna radiata L. Wilczek) Genotypes Grown Under Saline Conditions. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 14(2): 287-292.'),(4844,'125','Effect of Zinc Enriched Soil on Yield of Fodder Sorghum and Growth Performance in Post-Weaning Growing Kid','N. Muthusamy*, S. Sathya and N. Akila','52 Effect of Zinc Enriched Soil on Yield of Fodder Sorghum and Growth Performance in Post-Weaning Growing Kid N Muthusamy.pdf','',1,'An on farm trial was conducted to study the growth performance of post weaning kids fed with zinc enriched fodder. The experiment was conducted in Peramandampalayam village of Mohanur block at Namakkal district and 10 locations considered as replications of experiment group. Soil and water samples were analysed. The experimental groups are T1: Farmers practice (FP) @ 15t/h and urea 50 kg/ha and T2: T1+ Zinc sulphate @ 20 kg/ha. After sowing fodder sorghum (COFS 29) samples were collected for analysis of zinc. The application of zinc sulphate in soil non significantly increased concentration of zinc, yield and dry matter yield of fodder sorghum compared to farmers practice. Zinc enriched fodder sorghum did not significantly increased total dry matter intake and average daily gain of post weaning growing kid over farmers practice. Feeding of zinc enriched fodder sorghum slightly increased net return and B:C ratio as compared to farmers practice. The conclusion of the study was feeding of zinc enriched fodder sorghum slightly improved growth performance in post weaning growing kid.','Zinc, Fodder, Soil, Average daily gain, Net return, Kid','The results of the present study demonstrated that, soil application of zinc sulphate is one of the way to increase zinc content in sorghum fodder. Feeding of zinc enriched fodder sorghum slightly improved growth performance in post weaning growing kid. In future, Effect of foliar application of zinc on fodder yield and growth performance of animal may be evaluated. ','INTRODUCTION\r\nLivestock sector contribution has increased in total agriculture and allied sector of GVA (Gross Value Added) from 24.32 % (2014-15) to 28.63 % (2018-2019). Livestock sector contributed 4.19 percent of total GVA in 2018-19 (National Accounts Statistics, 2020). The demand for green and dry fodder will reach to 1012 and 631 million tonnes respectively by the year 2050. The deficit of green and dry fodder will be 18.4 % and 13.2 % respectively in the year 2050. To meet out the deficit, green forage supply need to grow at 1.69% annually (IGFRI Vision, 2050).\r\nMicronutrients is important for plant growth and among the micronutrients, zinc is one of the most essential minerals for soil and plant health. Application of zinc fertilizer is needed for higher crop yield and better crop quality. Biofortification of soil with zinc fertilizers enhance zinc content in plants (Alloway, 2008). Foliar application of zinc sulphate improve productivity of crop (Sharma and Singh 2018). Zinc is a very important for growth, reproduction and immune response in ruminants (Underwood and Suttle 1999).\r\nSome of the studies (Gowda et al., 2000; Yadav and Khirwar 2005) stated that a close relationship between soil zinc content, plants and animals. One health concept summarizes that animal health, human health and environmental health are intrinsically intertwined and interdependent. The health of one affects health of all. In India, indiscriminate use of nitrogen fertilizer along with zinc deficiency decrease the growth of fodder. As per the report of All India Coordinated Research Project (AICRP) about 40% of soil samples collected across India are deficient in available Zn (Shukla et al., 2016) results in livestock are concurrently reported (Rakesh et al., 2017) zinc deficiency. Hence, the objective of this study was to enrichment of zinc in fodder sorghum through soil and to study the effect of zinc enriched fodder on growth performance in post weaning growing goat. \r\nMATERIALS AND METHODS\r\nThe experiment was conducted in 10 locations of Peramandampalayam village of Mohanur block at Namakkal district and 10 locations considered as replications of experiment group. The soil and water samples were taken from respective locations, analyzed the results was presented in Table 1. The two treatment groups were T1: Farmers practice (FP) was farm yard manure @ 15t/h and urea 50 kg/ha and T2: T1 + Zinc sulphate @ 20 kg/ha. The 50 kg of nitrogen was split in two doses and applied as top dressing. Zinc sulphate was mixed with farmyard manure applied at the time of sowing. Fodder sorghum (COFS 29) was sown in the field on October in 2020. Fodder sorghum (COFS 29) was harvested at 60 days after sowing. Harvested fodder was weighed, chaffed, shade dried and stover was fed to the goat as per the treatment groups for 60 days. All post weaning growing kids were maintained in uniform conditions with well ventilated housing. All growing kids were dewormed before start of experiment. All growing kids were weighed monthly by using weighing balance.\r\nRESULTS AND DISCUSSION\r\nZinc enriched soil not significantly enhanced green fodder sorghum yield and dry matter yield of fodder sorghum compared to farmers practice (Table 2). In contrast to results of the present study Verma et al. (2005) reported that zinc enriched soil significantly increased fodder yield and dry matter content of fodder sorghum. Giridhar et al. (2021) stated that zinc enriched soil increased dry matter yield of fodder sorghum.\r\nThe application of zinc sulphate in soil increased concentration of zinc in the fodder sorghum but, not significantly compared to farmers practice (Fig. 1). The zinc content was higher in zinc enriched fodder sorghum (27.25 mg/kg) compared to farmers practice without zinc fortification (22.75 mg/kg). However, Giridhar et al. (2021) observed zinc enriched soil significantly increased zinc concentration in fodder sorghum. \r\nZinc enriched fodder sorghum did not significantly increased average daily concentrate intake, average daily green fodder intake and total dry matter intake of growing kid over farmers practice (Table 3). Similarly, Giridhar et al. (2021) reported that feeding of zinc enriched fodder not influenced dry matter intake of sheep. At the start of feeding experiment, the initial body weight of T1 and T2 groups were 8.5 kg and 8.4 kg respectively (Table 4). At the end of experiment, body weight (kg) and average daily gain (kg) of zinc enriched fodder sorghum fed group was slightly increased, but not significantly over farmers practice. In \r\ncontrast, Giridhar et al. (2021) stated that zinc enriched fodder sorghum significantly increased final body weight and (kg) and average daily gain (kg) over control. The dietary supplementation of zinc methionine improved growth performance in goat (Wenbin et al., 2009). \r\nFeeding of zinc enriched fodder sorghum increased net return and B:C ratio as compared to farmers practice (Table 5). The reason for slight increase net return might be due to high yield of fodder sorghum and increased final body weight of post weaning growing kid.\r\n','N. Muthusamy, S. Sathya and N. Akila (2022). Effect of Zinc Enriched Soil on Yield of Fodder Sorghum and Growth Performance in Post-Weaning Growing Kid. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 14(2): 293-295.'),(4845,'117','Application of Orthogonal and Non-Orthogonal Rotations of Principal Component Analysis in Indigenous Goats of Bihar, India','Ramesh Kumar Singh, Birendra Kumar and Rajesh Kumar','313 Ramesh Kumar Singh.pdf','',1,'The present study was undertaken to segregate important the morphometric traits with principal component analysis with orthogonal and non-orthogonal rotations to aid goat selection programs. Data on 11 body morphometric measurements were collected from 400 adult goats from three Gaya, Patna and Madhepura districts of Bihar. Goats were randomly selected in a range from first to fifth parity on the basis of availability at farmers. The mean of morphometric traits of Goats such as Body Weight (BW), Face Length (FL), Face Width (FW), Face Height (FH), Ear Length (EL), Body Length (BL), Withers Height (WH), Chest Width (CW), Chest Depth (CD), Chest Girth (CG) and Cannon Bone Circumference (CC) were estimated 24.7± 0.56 Kg, 17.4 ± 0.58 cm, 12.56±0.25 cm, 18.53±0.36 cm, 13.32±0.34 cm, 53.29±0.65 cm, 53.89±0.78 cm, 30.59±0.65 cm, 26.59±0.56 cm, 66.21±1.77 cm and 8.4±0.23 cm, respectively. \r\nCorrelation coefficient estimated ranged between 0.01 (CG and CC) to 0.76 (BL and FL) among various body measurements. The positive and significant (p<0.05/0.01) correlations among body measurements suggest high predictability among the different traits. This was further checked for validity of factors with Kaiser-Meyer-Olkin (KMO) test of sampling adequacy and Bartlett’s test of Sphericity. After Varimax and Promax rotations, two principal components were generated with cumulative variance of 64%. The first component which explained 53% of the variance included body measurements traits such as FL, WH, BL, FH, FW, CD, CW, BW and CC. The first component in general explained the conformation and body size of indigenous goat. The second (PC2) component of body measurements explained 11% of total variation of goat body measurements data and is represented by significant high loading of EL trait. The first principal components represent traits FL, WH, BL, FH, FW, CD, CW, BW and CC may utilised for selection of animals.\r\n','Phenotypic correlations, Germplasm, Varimax and Promax','The local goat of Bihar similar in size and shape of Assam Hill Goat based on different body measurements. The two principal components were generated after Varimax and Promax rotations of PCA analysis, are sufficient to explain 64% of total variance. These extracted PCs can be exploited in the evaluation and comparison of goat. The first principal component representing traits FL, WH, BL, FH, FW, CD, CW, BW and CC may utilised for selection of animals.','INTRODUCTION\r\nThe goats in Bihar belonging to indigenous types and sometimes considered as variants of Black Bengal goats. The goats of Bihar are known for its adaptation to harsh environmental conditions, ability to convert low quality forages and resistance to various disease conditions. In Bihar, goat population is next highest in numbers to the cattle population in livestock species. Bihar possess 10.16 million goats out of 140.53 million goat of India and take 5th rank among states for goat population (BAHS, 2010). They have evolved over long period of time with natural selection. The germplasm of these stocks are now being diluted using various Black Bengal, Barbari, Beetal, Jamunapari, Sirohi and Jhakhrana breeds in the state for genetic upgradation. Maintenance of indigenous breeds or populations represents the best economic tool for preserving diversity and sociocultural traditions. The influence of improved breeds leads many of the local breeds to endangerment before they have been defined, studied or catalogued. Knowledge of extensive genetic variation within breeds is essential for the development of efficient breeding programs in goats. However, prior to this, morphological characterization of breeds and study of variation within and between breeds is imperative (Chacon et al., 2011). Since morphological selection may be an effective system in preservation and breeding programs. The selection has a notable economic importance to livestock breeders for improving rate of weight gain. Hence, selective breeding is very essential to improve breed performances and genetic upgradation of local goat. Body dimensions/Biometric traits have been used to indicate breed, origin and relationships, body conformation, comparison of growth, prediction of body weights, selection and breeding. European Federation of Animal Science (EAAP) and FAO have used height at withers as a prime indicator for their type. Recently, alternative body measurements estimated from different combinations of different body traits produced a superior guide to measure the body weight and were also used as an indicator of type and function in domestic animals. Analysis of variance fitting least squares model and correlations are widely used for phenotypic or morphometric characterization and to obtain relationships among different body measurements of animals.\r\nThe factor analysis using principal component analysis represents a better multivariate statistical tool to be applied in correlated genetic characteristics (Yakubu et al., 2011). Principal Component Analysis (PCA) is one of a refined technique which explain relationships between body measurements traits in a better way when the recorded traits are correlated. It provides information about the relative importance of each variable in characterizing the individuals. This analysis transforms an original group of variables into another group, principal components, which are linear combination of original variables. A small number of these new variables are usually sufficient to describe the individual without losing too much information. For genetic improvement, principal components simultaneously consider a group of attributes which may be used for selection purpose. Different body measurements, which represents the size of the goat is one of the important criteria in selection of elite animals. There is an urgent need to describe the body conformation by recording a minimum number of body measurements/biometric traits which reduce the cost, labour and time.Principal component analysis affects the management of conservation and selection of animals by multiple traits by breeders (Salako, 2006). The PCA of body measurement in goat had been reported by several workers (Okpekum et al. 2011; Eyduran et al. 2013; Khan et al., 2014; Paul et al., 2011; Yakubu et al. 2011). Different body measurements, which represents the size of the goat is one of the important criteria in selection of elite animals. The present investigation aims to segregate important the morphometric traits with principal component analysis to aid goat selection programs. \r\nMATERIAL AND METHODS\r\nPlace of research. The data for morphometric characterizations on the aspects of body measurements were collected by direct observations and measurements. Data on body morphometric measurements were collected from 400 adult goats from three Gaya, Patna and Madhepura districts of Bihar in the period of 2012 to 2014. Goats were randomly selected in a range from first to fifth parity on the basis of availability at farmers. The morphometric traits of Goats (Face Length (FL)-Measured between the horn site / poll to the lower lip; Face Width (FW)-Measured as the widest point of the head; Face Height (FH)-Measured from the poll to the jaw; Ear Length (EL)-The distance from the base to the tip of the ear along the dorsal surface; Ear Width (EW)-Maximum distance at the middle of the ear; Body Length (BL)-Distance from the point of the shoulder to the pin bone; Withers Height (WH)-Vertical distance from ground to the point of withers measured vertically from the ridge between the shoulder bones to the fore hoof; Chest Width (CW)-Measured as a distance from left to right upper arm; Chest Depth (CD)-The distance from the backbone at the shoulder to the brisket between the front legs; Chest Girth (CG)-Perimeter of the chest just behind the front legs and withers; Cannon Bone Circumference (CC)-The smallest circumference of the cannon bone of foreleg) were recorded and taken into study. The data were standardized for any missing values and outliers. All the measurement of body dimensions of Goats was recorded once in upright animal standing on a level ground and by the same technical person to avoid between recorder effects. All these body dimensions taken from adult goat were measured by using Measuring Tape. \r\nStatistical analysis. Means and standard error were calculated. Peason’s correlations (r) among different morphometric traits were estimated. When the recorded data of the morphometric traits were highly correlated then data for the Principal Component Analysis (PCA) were generated using variance-covariance matrix. \r\nPrincipal Components Analysis (PCA). Kaiser-Meyer-Olkin (KMO) test of sampling adequacy and Bartlett’s test of Sphericity were computed to establish the validity of the data set. KMO’s measure determines whether the common factor model is appropriate. Principal Components Analysis (PCA) is a distinct methodology for exploring and simplifying complex multivariate normal data. It is performed to combine a large number of variables to smaller number of factors. The goal of PCA is to replace a large number of correlated variables with a smaller number of uncorrelated variables while capturing as much information in the original variables as possible. These derived variables, called principal components, are linear combinations of the observed variables. The PCA analysis was accomplished using the model in matrix form Y = XB; Where, Y is a matrix of observed variables; X is a matrix of scores on components; B is a matrix of eigenvectors (weights). PCA decomposes a correlation matrix with ones on the diagonals. The amount of variance is equal to the trace of the matrix, the sum of the diagonals or the number of observed variables in the analysis. PCA minimizes the sum of the squared perpendicular distance to the component axis (Truxillo, 2003). Orthogonal (Varimax) and non-orthogonal (Promax) rotations of Principal Components in Indigenous goats of Bihar was done through the transformation of the components to approximate a simple structure. The raw varimax and promax criterion of the orthogonal rotation method was employed for the rotation of the factor matrix. Cumulative proportion of variance criterion was finally employed to determine the number of components to extract. \r\nRESULTS AND DISCUSSION\r\nThe descriptive statistics for all the body measurements of goat was presented in Table 1. The different body measurements of goat were observed lower than Sannen Goats (Pesmen and Yardimici 2008) and Goats of Pakistan (Khan et al. 2006). The variation among different populations of goat across habitats may be attributed to the differences in genetics, nutrition, management system and climate.\r\nPhenotypic correlations. The phenotypic correlations (r) among body measurements were presented in Table 2. Correlation coefficient estimated ranged between 0.01 (CG and CC) to 0.76 (BL and FL) among various body measurements. A total of 66 correlations (in all combinations) were estimated. Among these 61 correlations were significant and positive (Table 2). These correlations among all 61 correlations were low to moderate in magnitude. Only one negative and non-significant low correlation was found between EL and CG (-0.05). The phenotypic correlations (r) among \r\nbody measurements of goat were in concordance with the results of Pesmen and Yardimici (2008); Khan et al. (2006). The positive and significant (p<0.05/0.01) correlations among body measurements suggest high predictability among the different traits. Further, varying estimates of correlations in body measurements could be attributed to the fact that postnatal growth does not take place proportionality in all tissue categories or body regions within those tissue categories. \r\nPrincipal component analysis. The PCA was applied on 11 body measurements traits of goats of Bihar. The KMO measure of sampling adequacy (MSA) was obtained as 0.95. The estimate of sampling adequacy KMO revealed the proportion of the variance in different biometric traits caused by the underlying components (Kaiser, 1958). The overall significance of the correlation matrix was tested with Bertlett’s test of sphericity for the biometric traits (chi-square was 299.5 p<0.01) was significant, it means correlation matrix is not an identity matrix and provided enough support for the validity of the factor analysis of data. The scree plot of component number with eigenvalues for body measurements of goats is given in Fig. 1. Principal components (PCs) extracted from different body measurements with Eigen values greater than 1.00 and accounted for 64% of total variance (Table 3). PCA was performed using values of 11 body measurements traits of goat. The first (PC1) and second (PC2) components of body measurements explained the goat body measurements about 53% and 11% of total variance, respectively. Two principal components of different body measurements were obtained in goats of Bihar which is lesser to the three principal components obtained in various population or breeds of goats (Edyuran et al., 2013; Yakubu et al., 2011). After Varimax and Promax rotations, two principal components were generated with cumulative variance of 64%. Okpeku et al. (2011) extracted two components explaining 94.15 % and 97.65 % of the total variation in females and males, respectively in local goats of Nigeria. The first component which explained 53% of the variance included body measurements traits such as FL, WH, BL, FH, FW, CD, CW, BW and CC in Varimax rotation and high loading of FL, WH, BL, FW, FH, CD, CW, BW and CC traits in Promax rotation. Slightly higher estimate of first component explaining 60% and 80% of total variation was obtained in African goat and red Sokoto group, respectively (Yakubu et al., 2011). The first component in general explained the conformation and body size of \r\nindigenous goat. The second (PC2) component of body measurements explained 11% of total variation of goat body measurements data and is represented by significant high loading of EL trait. The present study extracted two principal components which was different from observed PCs in West African goat (Yakubu et al., 2011). The estimates of communality were high and ranged from 0.46 (BW) to 0.84 (FL) in Varimax and from0.46 (BW) to 0.84 (FL) Promax rotations. This indicated that traits variations of body measurement of goat were well explained by two extracted principal components (PCs). The estimated communality in the present study was different from observed in West African goat ranged from 0.56 to 0.97 (Yakubu et al., 2011). \r\n','Ramesh Kumar Singh, Birendra Kumar and Rajesh Kumar (2015). Application of Orthogonal and Non-Orthogonal Rotations of Principal Component Analysis in Indigenous Goats of Bihar, India. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 7(1): 1943-1948.'),(4846,'117','Multivariate Analysis of Body Measurements of Indigenous Goats of Bihar, India','Birendra Kumar, Ramesh Kumar Singh and Rajesh Kumar','314 BFIJ-RT-2505-Ramesh Kumar Singh.pdf','',1,'The present study was aimed to investigate the body measurement traits in indigenous Goat of Bihar. Data on 11 body morphometric measurements were collected from 400 adult goats from three Gaya, Patna and Madhepura districts of Bihar. The data was analysed with least square mean considering district as non-genetic factor and Multivariate Analysis using Principal Component Analysis method. Based on descriptive statistics, Indigenous Goats of Bihar is comparable to the size of Black Bengal and Assam Hill goats of eastern India. The multivariate analysis of body measurements yielded two principal components sufficient to explain the conformation of indigenous goats. The extracted two principal components represent the general body size and shape of the goat population. These extracted components may dictate in elimination of unimportant traits to be recorded to explain conformation and selection of animals. The body measurements traits BW, FL, FW, FH, BL, WH, CW CD and CC represented in PC1 may be applied in selection programme of goat for improvement in production.','Multivariate, Body Measurements, Indigenous, Goats, Bihar India','-','INTRODUCTION\r\nGoat is an important livestock in Bihar because of their adaptation to harsh climatic conditions, disease tolerance capacity and they can provide a full range of products for humans especially of meat production. Goat is popularly known as poor man’s cow. Goat farming is an integral part of livelihood security of people and agriculture of Bihar. In Bihar, goat population is next highest in numbers to the cattle population in livestock species. Goat rearing has distinct economic and managerial advantages over other livestock because of its less initial investment, low input requirement, higher prolificacy, early sexual maturity and ease in marketing. Goats can efficiently survive on available shrubs and trees in unfavourable environments. The goats can be maintained easily and can be easily liquidated at the time of distress. In recent years, goat enterprise has also shown promise of its successful intensification and commercialisation. Development of goat sector has the potential to impact the livelihood of twenty million goat rearers. Demand for animal protein in India is increasing day by day at very faster rate (Delagado et al., 1999). Human population growth, increasing urbanization and rising incomes are predicted to increase the demand for livestock and livestock products exponentially. The goats of Bihar are mostly indigenous type and seems to variants of Black Bengal goats. Bihar possess 10.16 million goats out of 140.53 million goat of India and take 5th rank among states for goat population (BAHS, 2010). To meet the demand, goat should be evaluated and bred to enhance their production. It would be most ideal to have desirable characteristics like larger body size of goat and faster growth rate.\r\nGrowth and development are an important for production of meat animals. Body measurements are important parameters to describe size and growth. Therefore, linear body measurements can be used as selection criteria for improvement of meat production in goat. Body conformation by recording of minimum body measurements which reduce the cost, labour and time is the need of the day. Body measurements describes more completely an individual or population than the conventional method of weighing and grading. In order to reduce the number of morphometric measurements to be recorded for evaluation of goat population, little progress in this regard has been achieved. Principal Component Analysis (PCA) is one of a refined technique which explain relationships between body measurements traits in a better way when the recorded traits are correlated. It provides information about the relative importance of each variable in characterizing the individuals. This analysis transforms an original group of variables into another group, principal components, which are linear combination of original variables. A small number of these new variables are usually sufficient to describe the individual without losing too much information. For genetic improvement, principal components simultaneously consider a group of attributes which may be used for selection purpose. The PCA of body measurement in goat had been reported by several workers (Okpekum et al. 2011; Eyduran el al., 2013; Khan et al., 2014; Paul et al., 2011 and Yakubu et al., 2011). \r\n\r\n\r\n \r\n Singh et al., 1950\r\n \r\nDifferent body measurements, which represents the size of the goat is one of the important criteria in selection of elite animals. The present investigation was taken to identify the morphometric redundant traits with principal component analysis to aid goat selection programs. \r\nMATERIAL AND METHODS\r\nPlace of research. The data for morphometric characterizations on the aspects of body measurements were collected by direct observations and measurements. Data on body morphometric measurements were collected from 400 adult goats from three Gaya, Patna and Madhepura districts of Bihar in the period of 2012 to 2014. Goats were randomly selected in a range from first to fifth parity on the basis of availability at farmers. The morphometric traits of Goats (Face Length (FL)-Measured between the horn site/poll to the lower lip; Face Width (FW)-Measured as the widest point of the head; Face Height (FH)-Measured from the poll to the jaw; Ear Length (EL)-The distance from the base to the tip of the ear along the dorsal surface; Ear Width (EW)-Maximum distance at the middle of the ear; Body Length (BL)-Distance from the point of the shoulder to the pin bone; Withers Height (WH)-Vertical distance from ground to the point of withers measured vertically from the ridge between the shoulder bones to the fore hoof; Chest Width (CW)-Measured as a distance from left to right upper arm; Chest Depth (CD)-The distance from the backbone at the shoulder to the brisket between the front legs; Chest Girth (CG)-Perimeter of the chest just behind the front legs and withers; Cannon Bone Circumference (CC)-The smallest circumference of the cannon bone of foreleg) were recorded and taken into study. The data were standardized for any missing values and outliers. All the measurement of body dimensions of Goats was recorded once in upright animal standing on a level ground and by the same technical person to avoid between recorder effects. All these body dimensions taken from adult goat were measured by using measuring tape. \r\nStatistical analysis. The data collected were analysed using fixed effect model, by considering district effect as fixed so as to adjust the data for significant effect of district if any as per following statistical model (Harvey, 1987). \r\nY_ij= µ + D_i + e_ij\r\nwhere, Y_ij is the phenotypic observation for one of the morphometric Biometric traits, µ is the overall mean; D_iis fixed effect of District, while e_ij is the random error associated with each record which is NID (0,σ_e^2). Means and standard error were calculated. Peason’s correlations (r) among different morphometric traits were estimated. When the recorded data of the morphometric traits were highly correlated then data for the Principal Component Analysis (PCA) were generated using variance-covariance matrix. \r\nPrincipal Components Analysis (PCA). Kaiser-Meyer-Olkin (KMO) test of sampling adequacy and Bartlett’s test of Sphericity were computed to establish the validity of the data set. KMO’s measure determines whether the common factor model is appropriate. Principal Components Analysis (PCA) is a distinct methodology for exploring and simplifying complex multivariate normal data. It is performed to combine a large number of variables to smaller number of factors. The goal of PCA is to replace a large number of correlated variables with a smaller number of uncorrelated variables while capturing as much information in the original variables as possible. These derived variables, called principal components, are linear combinations of the observed variables. The PCA analysis was accomplished using the model in matrix form Y = XB; Where, Y is a matrix of observed variables; X is a matrix of scores on components; B is a matrix of eigenvectors (weights). PCA decomposes a correlation matrix with ones on the diagonals. The amount of variance is equal to the trace of the matrix, the sum of the diagonals or the number of observed variables in the analysis. PCA minimizes the sum of the squared perpendicular distance to the component axis.\r\nRESULTS AND DISCUSSION\r\nThe effect of district in least square analysis had non-significant effects on body measurement traits of goats. The goat population was found uniform in shape and size across the districts. The descriptive statistics for all the body measurements of goat was presented in Table 1. The different body measurements of goat were estimated lower than Sannen Goats (Pesmen and Yardimici, 2008) and Goats of Pakistan (Khan et al., 2006). \r\nThe differences in descriptive measurements among different populations of goat may be attributed to variation in genetic constitution and environmental factors experienced across habitats like feeds, fodder, management systems and climate.\r\nPhenotypic correlations. The phenotypic correlations (r) among body measurements were presented in Table 2. The highest positive correlation between body measurements was recorded between BL and FL (0.76), while the lowest positive correlation CG and CC (0.01). A total of 66 correlations (in all combinations) were estimated. Among these 61 correlations were significant and positive (Table 2). These correlations among all 61 correlations were low to moderate in magnitude. Only one negative and non-significant low correlation was found between EL and CG (-0.05). The phenotypic correlations (r) among body measurements of goat were in concordance with the results of Pesmen and Yardimici (2008); Khan et al. (2006). The differences in correlation estimates between body measurements may be assigned to reason the body development does not take place proportionality in all organs of the body. \r\nPrincipal component analysis. The PCA was applied on 11 body measurements traits of goats of Bihar. The KMO measure of sampling adequacy (MSA) was obtained as 0.95. The estimate of sampling adequacy KMO revealed the proportion of the variance in different biometric traits caused by the underlying components (Kaiser, 1958). The overall significance of the correlation matrix was tested with Bertlett’s test of sphericity for the biometric traits (chi-square was 299.5 p<0.01) was significant, it means correlation matrix is not an identity matrix and provided enough support for the validity of the factor analysis of data. The scree plot of component number with eigenvalues for body measurements of goats is given in Figure 1. The two principal components were extracted from different body measurements with eigenvalues greater than 1.00 and accounted for 63% of total variance (Table 3).The Eigenvalues and variance proportions for the principal components (PC) of 11 body measurements traits are presented in Table 3. The first (PC1)and second (PC2) components of body measurements explained the goat body measurements about53% and 11% of total variance, respectively. The morphometric traits BW, FL, FW, FH, BL, WH, CW CD and CC had high loading in first PCs. These traits reflect cranial shape and size features and height, length and diameter features of goat.In general, first component explained the conformation and body size of indigenous goat of Bihar. The second component explained 11% of total variation of data and was represented by the characteristic Ear Length (EL) having significant correlation with component. Two principal components of different body measurements were obtained in goats of Bihar which is lesser to the three principal components obtained in various population or breeds of goats (Edyuran et al.,2013; Yakubu et al., 2011). The body measurements BW, FL, FW, FH, BL, WH, CW CD and CC having high loading in PC1 group were determined as the important measurements for goat selection.The body measurement traits in indigenous Goat of Bihar is comparable to the size of Black Bengal and Assam Hill goats of eastern India. The multivariate analysis of body measurements may be used to explain the conformation of indigenous goats. The extracted two principal components represent the general body size and shape of the goat population. These extracted components may dictate in elimination of unimportant traits to be recorded to explain conformation and selection of animals. The body measurements traits BW, FL, FW, FH, BL, WH, CW CD and CC represented in PC1 may be applied in selection programme of goat for improvement in production. ','Birendra Kumar, Ramesh Kumar Singh and Rajesh Kumar (2015). Multivariate Analysis of Body Measurements of Indigenous Goats of Bihar, India. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 7(1): 1949-1953'),(4847,'125','Evaluation of Date palm Cultivars under Hyper Arid Climate condition','Priyanka Kumawat*, Sandeep Kumar, Anuj Godara, Komal Shekhawat and Swarnlata Kumawat','53 Evaluation of Date palm Cultivars under Hyper Arid Climate condition Pooja Sharma.pdf','',1,'Date palm is a nutrition rich fruit plant which is well adapted in hot arid climate, where plenty of water available. There are lots of verities of date palm available in world. All varieties dose not suits in particular climate condition. This experiment was conducted at date palm research center, SKRAU, Bikaner, during 2020. The experiment conducted on twenty date palm cultivars viz., Agoloni, Barhee, Bint-E-Sha, Halawy, Hatmi, Hayani, Khalas, Khasab, Khdarawi, Khuneizi, Medjool, Mundara Selection, Nagal, Nagal Halali, Ruziz, Sedmi, Shamran, Syar, Tyar and Zahidi to identify the suitable cultivar for arid climate condition. The experiment conducted in completely randomized design. The result obtained from this study show that the maximum fruit weight, pulp weight and volume attained by cultivar Khalas. Maximum fruit length obtained by cv. Hayani, maximum pulp%, pulp stone ratio and minimum stone weight, stone girth and stone % were found in cultivar Tyar. Other cultivars also perform well in this climatic condition were Khasab, Medjool, Bint-E-Sha, Khuniezi, Barhee, Halawy etc.','Date palm, Evaluation, Morphological traits, Date palm cultivars','From the above results it was concluded that Khalas cultivar found good in morphological traits. Tyar was small fruited variety among all the cultivars but its pulp stone ration found highest. The well performing cultivars in this climatic condition are Khalas, Khasab, Medjool, Bint-E-Sha, Barhee, Halawy etc. ','INTRODUCTION \r\nDate palm scientifically known as Phoenix dactylifera which is belongs to the family Arecaceae. Based on archeological proof, Iraq is considered as the center of origin of date palm (Johnson et al., 2013). It is well known that date palm is a dioecious plant i.e. pistillate and staminate flowers are borne on distinct palms and the natural pollination may follow by wind and insects (Ashour et al., 2008). The scientiﬁc name Phoenix dactylifera is derived from the word phoenix, in Greek mythology it means a long lived bird and dactylos meaning ﬁnger, which denotes to the shape of the fruit. It is believed that, date palm has been familiarized in Indus valley during 4th century B.C. by the soldiers of Alexander. Egypt, Saudi Arabia, Iran, Algeria, Iraq, Pakistan and Sudan are the top most date palm producing countries. In India date palm mainly cultivated in Kutch (Gujarat), Rajasthan, and some parts of the Punjab, as well as Tamilnadu (Shah, 2014). Area of date palm in Rajasthan is 850 ha with production of 800 tonnes (Singh, 2018). The date fruit has four distinct growth and ripening stages. These four stages are derived from Arabic language as Kimri, Khalal, Rutab and Tamar. In India, these stages are called as Gandora, Doka, Dang and Pind, respectively. Dates are rich source of essential minerals such as calcium, iron, magnesium, phosphorus, potassium, zinc, selenium, manganese. Vitamins, ascorbic acid and folic acid which enhance their nutritional values (Al-Farsi et al., 2005; Elleuch et al., 2008; El Hadrami et al., 2011). Hot dry summer, moderate winter and rain free period favors the quality production of date palm. Rain is a major distorting factor in production of date palm. At early stage of development rain cause less damage but at ripening stage it cause severe damage. Date palm cultivars show diversity from one region to another one. Date palm is an exotic introduced crop therefore, this experiment was conducted to exploit the suitable varieties in Bikaner condition. \r\nMATERIAL AND METHODS\r\nThe experiment was conducted at Date Palm Research Centre, Agricultural Research Station, S. K. Rajasthan Agricultural University, Bikaner during 2020. Geographically, the Date Palm Research Centre of Swami Keshwanand Rajasthan Agricultural University (SKRAU) is situated 07 Km away from Bikaner on NH-15 at an altitude of 234.7 m above mean sea level at latitude 28°01N and longitude 73°22E. Bikaner falls in agro climate zone (IC), this is known as hyper arid partially irrigated north-western plain zone. The maximum and minimum temperature during fruiting time was 47°C and 20°C, respectively. The experiment was conducted on 20 date palm cultivars fruits at doka stage (Agoloni, Barhee, Bint-E-Sha, Halawy, Hatmi, Hayani, Khalas, Khasab, Khdarawi, Khuneizi, Medjool, Mundara Selection, Nagal, Nagal Halali, Ruziz, Sedmi, Shamran, Syar, Tyar and Zahidi) to exploit the morphological suitability of fruits in this region. For each cultivars 10 random fruits selected and replicate three times. The experiment conducted in completely randomized design. Parameters studied were recorded according to the standard A.O.A.C. (2005) procedures for fruit weight, fruit length, fruit girth, volume, pulp weight, pulp %, stone weight, stone %, stone length, stone girth, pulp: stone. Data obtained on various characters were analyzed statistically according to the analysis of variance techniques as suggested by Panse and Sukhatme, (1985); Chandel, (1999). The critical difference (CD) was calculated at 5 per cent level of significance.\r\n\r\n\r\nRESULT AND DISCUSSION \r\nThe data presented in the Table 1 show that the significant deference were found in between cultivars regarding fruit characters. Weight of fruit, pulp and volume of fruit (12.5g, 11.3g and 13.05 cm3, respectively) was found maximum in cultivar Khalas. Whereas, minimum fruit weight (3.64g), length (2.48g), volume (4.07 cm3) and pulp weight (3.2g) were exhibited by cultivar Nagal Halali. Maximum fruit length attend by cultivar Hayani (5.64 cm) followed by Khalas (3.93 cm), Syar (3.73 cm) and Bint-E- Sha (3.66 cm). Maximum fruit girth was attended by Medjool (2.39 cm) followed by Khalas (2.28 cm) and Hatmi (2.28 cm) cultivars, whereas, minimum fruit girth obtained by cultivar Mundara Selection (1.67cm)which is found at par with NagalHalali (1.70cm), Tyar (1.71cm) and Ruziz (1.72cm). Maximum pulp percentage was exhibited by cultivar Tyar (91.41%), which found at par with Khasab (90.49%), Khalas (90.39%), Khuneizi (90.23%), Agoloni (90.03%), Nagal Halali (88.42%) and Hayani (88.22%). Whereas, minimum pulp percentage was obtained by cultivar Nagal (76.45%) which was found at par with Mundara Selection (77.45%). Morphological attributes of date palm fruit depends on cultivar genotype and environmental conditions. The results found similar with Muralidhara et al. (2016); Singh et al. (2005).\r\nTable 2 show that the maximum stone weight (2.01g) and stone girth (1.12 cm) was obtained by cultivar Medjool. Minimum stone weight (0.38g), stone girth (0.6cm) and stone percentage (8.59%) was obtained by cultivar Tyar. Maximum stone percentage was shown by cultivar Nagal (23.55%) which was found at par with Mundara Selection (22.55%). Longest stone was exhibited in cultivar Hatmi (2.52cm) which was found at par with Halawy (2.5cm), Jahidi (2.5cm), Syar (2.48cm), Bint-E-Sha (2.47cm) and Nagal (2.46 cm) cultivars. Shortest stone was obtained in cultivar NagalHalali (1.38cm) followed by Khdarawi (1.59cm), Agoloni (1.65cm) and Ruziz (1.67cm). Pulp stone ratio was found maximum in cultivar Tyar (13.93) followed by Khasab (9.54), Khalas (9.42) and Agoloni (9.36). Variation in quality of date palm fruit varies from variety to variety. It also depends on the genotype of plam, environmental conditions and developmental stage of fruit. Some experiments also similarly done by Mertia et al. 2010. The majority of the plantation is of seedling origin, resulting in high variability and diversity in fruit size, colour, taste, etc. (Muralidharan, et al., 2008; Pareek, 2015).','Priyanka Kumawat, Sandeep Kumar, Anuj Godara, Komal Shekawat and Swarnlata Kumawat (2022). Evaluation of Date palm Cultivars under Hyper Arid Climate condition. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 14(2): 296-299.'),(4848,'125','Comparative Assessment of Mean Performance, G × E Interaction and Genetic Variability Parameter for Nutritional Traits in Landraces of Assam under Organic and Conventional Cultivation Methods','Lonishree Dutta*, K.K. Sharma and Debojit Sarma','54 Comparative Assessment of Mean Performance, G × E Interaction and Genetic Variability Lonishree Dutta.pdf','',1,'Organic has become a buzz word nowadays. It has become a very important area of research for the plant breeders to develop an organic variety as the varieties dominating in the market require high dozes of fertilizer. So, an effort has been undertaken to see the performance of indigenous cultivars towards development of lines. Thus, 10 traditional rice varieties were collected from an area, where it was grown for more than 10 years under organic condition by farmers. These varieties were grown under organic and conventional cultivation in Experimental field of Assam Agricultural University, Jorhat and an initiative was taken to understand the affect on nutritional quality by the two different cultivation methods and to find some varieties having improved nutritional character to be grown under organic growing condition. Most of the characters under investigation showed high G × E interaction indicating necessity for selection of the characters separately for both organic and inorganic situations. Pooled analysis of variance showed high G × E interaction for Fe (Iron) and Zn (Zinc), which indicated that selection, will be effective under organic situation for this two important micro-nutrients. The result of the experiment indicated that variability for biochemical characters in the indigenous varieties for organic situation and separate breeding program has to be taken for organic situation through selection.','Analysis of variance; G × E interaction; pooled; organic and variability','The study indicates improvement of iron content in the rice varieties can be done in organic growing condition, which appears to be an important finding of the experiment because iron deficiency affects 3 billion people around the globe. In case of zinc all the genotypes under organic condition showed higher content than inorganic. Hence, varieties bred under organic situation are likely to improve the important micro nutrient like zinc in the rice grain.\r\nAmongst all the biochemical characters amylose percentage have exhibited high GCV, PCV, heritability and GA % under both organic and inorganic condition. This indicates that variety selection under both situations will be useful for the improvement of the character.\r\n','INTRODUCTION\r\n“Organic” word is becoming a recent trend as people are becoming more conscious for health and environment. Thus, organic products serve as a significant avenue in the national and international market. Several folklores and phrases are common in the rural areas of India, which provides the evidence of the type of practices followed in those days, thus the root of organic agriculture lies in India (Sharma, 2016). Food scarcity and famines of early 60’s has propelled the agricultural scientist to go for HYV. The wave of Green revolution started in North West India and slowly spread to other states. However, the negative impact on the environment manifests with the increase in grain production. It is the right time for rationalizing the situation before an irreversible change causing food crisis, health hazards and environmental problems. Hence organic cultivation has been rightly emphasized to get rid of all these problems. Thus, there is a growing awareness of health and environmental issues associated with intensive use of chemical inputs has led to the interest in organic agriculture which is a holistic production management system that promotes agroecosystem, health, biodiversity and social, biological activity.\r\nOrganic farming systems aim at the resilience and buffering capacity in the farm eco-system, by stimulating internal self-regulation through functional agro-biodiversity in and above the soil, instead of external regulation through chemical protectors (Bueren et al., 2002). Researches on organic practices are getting focus in this decade throughout the globe and in India. However, reports on organic rice breeding are very less. Indian researches mainly focus on cultivation practices. Reports of breeding aspects are very few. Most of the grain quality parameters were moderately improved in nutritional quality in organic production over the inorganic. Amylose content was not influenced by the type of practices (Surekha et al., 2010) while Quyen et al. (2002) reported that organic sources perform well with regards to chemical and physio-chemical properties and cooking quality of rice. Considerable variation was observed among and between eleven pigmented red rice cultivars and nine non-pigmented rice cultivars of Assam in studies of Dasgupta et al., 2018. Moreover, study of Prasad et al., 2021 identified superior locally cultivated landraces of Tamil Nadu to be used in future breeding programmes for development of varieties with high protein, fibre and ash content. \r\nAs organic farming management and environments are fundamentally different from chemical-based conventional farming. Therefore, organic farmers need specific varieties that are adapted to their lower input farming system and can perform higher yield stability than conventional varieties (Bueren et al., 2002). For efficient and sustainable production of food under the organic condition, both varieties and cultivation methods must be optimized since presently available crop varieties mainly originated from conventional breeding program (Bueren et al., 2014). Organic agriculture stands for high genetic diversity at the farm level. It is necessary to grow regionally adapted cultivars to deal with the heterogeneous environment found in organic farming system. These varieties should deliver sufficiently high and stable yield with minimum use of external resources and be of high quality with regards to the morphological and nutritional requirement. Organic farming differs from conventional farming in many aspects, particularly the type and amount of fertilizer and the approach to weed and pest control. Currently, the cultivars used for conventional farming are also used in organic farming. However, there is a doubt that all lines bred for conventional farming will always perform well in organic farming (Herrera et al., 2015).\r\nIn Assam, rice is grown in an area of 24.95 lakh hectares, production is 51.25 lakh tonnes, and the average yield is 2089 kg/hectare as on 2017-18 (Anonymous, 2017). In Assam, there are many opportunities for farmers concerning organic farming, as most of them apply less fertilizer or no fertilizers at all. The farmers are also conserving the traditional varieties with their effort. Thus, those varieties can be utilized in a breeding programme to present them with an organic variety favourable to be grown under a hostile environment, which brings yield stability and good quality of the produce and is marketable in the international market as organically produced products and can fetch a good return.\r\n\r\nMATERIALS AND METHODS\r\nThe present study was undertaken at Instructional-cum-Research (ICR) Farm of Assam Agricultural University, Jorhat, Assam which is geographically situated at an altitude of 87 m above mean sea level, 26°45\'N latitude and 94°12\'E longitude. The experiment was conducted during Sali, 2018 i.e. sowing on 12th of June 2018 and transplanting on 12th of July, 2018. The experimental material comprised of ten indigenous cultivars and a standard check variety Ranjit. The details of pedigree, origin and sources of the genotypes are furnished in the Table 1. \r\nThe study was conducted under two environments i.e., organic and conventional with Randomised block design (RBD) with three replications. Two seedlings per hill of each genotype were transplanted in a row of 5.0 m length with a spacing of 20 cm between rows and 15 cm between plants within the row. Each genotype was transplanted in 2 m × 5 m plots. Fertilizer was applied as per the recommendation of 20 kg N, 10 kg P2O5, 10 kg K2O per hectare in the form of urea, single super phosphate and Muriate of potash respectively in conventional plot and FYM was applied as per recommendation of 5 tons per hectare in organic plot. \r\nObservations were recorded on five randomly sampled plants without border effect in each genotype in each replication. The biochemical analysis was done to analyse crude protein content, starch content, amylose, zinc, iron, potassium and calcium. Crude protein is estimated by calculating the nitrogen content in the sample and multiplying with factor 6.15 by using Kjeldahl method modified by Scales and Harison (1920). The starch content was estimated by the method as described by Chopra and Konwar (1976).\r\nAmylose was determined by following the simplified colorimetric procedure described by Juliano (1971). The amylopectin content was determined by subtracting the percentage of the amylose from 100 on moisture free basis.\r\nMineral ash solution was prepared for estimation of potassium, calcium, iron and zinc. Iron was determined colorimetrically using UV-VIS Spectrophotometer at 540 nm by method described by Wong (1928). Calcium was determined using flame-photometer (Systronics; model-MK III). Phosphorous was estimated colorimetrically by the method given by Fiske and Subharow (1925). Zinc was determined by using atomic absorbtion spectrophotometer (AAS Chemito Make, Model AA203D).\r\nThe pooled analysis of variances was determined following Panse and Sukhatme, 1978. Genotypic coefficient of variability (GCV) and Phenotypic coefficient of variability (PCV) was calculated by using the formula given by Burton (1952). Heritability in broad sense was calculated following Hanson, Robinson and Comstock (1956). Expected genetic advance as percent of mean was calculated using formula given by Allard (1960).\r\nRESULTS AND DISCUSSION\r\nAnalysis of variance for biochemical character of rice genotypes under organic and conventional situation is presented in Table 1. The mean square for starch content, crude protein, amylose content, calcium content, phosphorous, iron and zinc content showed significant variation for all the genotypes under both the growing conditions. The highest coefficient of variation was observed in zinc in both organic and inorganic situation (Table 2). The mean squares with respect to genotype and environment were found to be significant for starch, crude protein, amylose, calcium, phosphorous, iron and zinc content (Table 3). Genotype and environment interaction mean squares of iron and zinc content was found to have significant variation (Table 3). The highest coefficient of variation was observed for zinc content (8.27 %).\r\nGenetic variability parameter: The characters having significant variations in ANOVA were subject to estimates of genetic variation by computing range, mean (±¬ SEm), genotypic and phenotypic coefficient of variation (GCV and PCV), heritability in broad sense (h2bs) and expected genetic advance as per cent of mean (GA, % of mean).\r\nOrganic condition: The biochemical character under study with respect to genotypic coefficient of variation was found to be higher in amylose (33.75) and moderate for iron(15.90) and zinc (18.70) (Table 4). Phenotypic coefficient of variation was found to be higher in amylose (34.14) and moderate in case of phosphorous (16.40), iron (17.03) and zinc (20.10) (Table 4). The heritability was high for all the biochemical characters. GA % of mean was highest in amylose (68.71) and moderate in case of iron (30.59) and zinc (35.86) (Table 4).\r\nInorganic condition: The genotypic coefficient of variability was found to be high in amylose (32.25) and moderate in case of zinc (17.91). The other characters exhibit low GCV (Table 5). Similarly, phenotypic coefficient of variation was high in amylose (32.61) and moderate in case of zinc (20.28) (Table 5). Rest of the characters exhibit low phenotypic coefficient of variation. Heritability broad sense was found to be high in all the characters under study except starch (0.61) which was moderate in heritability (Table. 5). GA % of mean was high in amylose (65.70) and moderate in case of zinc (32.57) and rest of the characters exhibit low GA % of mean (Table 5).\r\nPooled estimates of genetic variability parameters: Moderate GCV was observed in case zinc (17.90) and in case of PCV also zinc (18.52) exhibited moderate percentage (Table 6). Heritability was found to be high in both the content zinc and iron.GA % of mean was moderate in zinc (35.63).\r\nAmongst all the biochemical characters amylose (%) have exhibited high GCV, PCV, heritability and GA % under both organic and inorganic condition . This indicates that variety selection under both situations will be useful for the improvement of the character. Amylose percentage will reduce the stickiness of the \r\ngrains and increase fluffiness which is an important grain characters for the consumers of rice. Moderate GCV, PCV and high heritability along with high GA for iron and zinc in organic situations indicates that these characters can be improved in organic growing condition. High GA for these two characters also indicates that the additive gene action may govern these characters. Babu et al. (2012) recorded low PCV, GCV, moderate heritability and moderate GA in a set of hybrid varieties. Hence, simple selection in crop improvement will be useful for increasing the two most important micro-nutrients in rice grain.\r\nGenotypic mean performance: None of the genotype is at par with Ranjit in term of starch content (Table 7). The lowest content of crude protein was found in Lothow Bora (8.12 %) and highest content was found in Kola Joha (11.02 %). The genotype Mugi Joha (10.52) was at par with Kola Joha in terms of crude protein (Table 7) (Kandali and Borah (1992); Kandali et al., 1995; Ahmed et al., 1998; Ahmed (2004); Baishya et al., 2010). Amylose ranged from lowest content in Lothow Bora (1.90) to highest in Solpona (22.81) (Dutta and Baruah (1978), Bhagabati (2000) and Ahmed, 2004). None of the variety was found to be at par with Solpona in terms of amylose content (Table 7). \r\nThe highest mean for calcium was recorded in Lothow Bora (0.03) and lowest mean was for Kola Sali (0.02) (Dutta and Baruah (1978), Kandali et al., 1995 and Ahmed et al., 1998) (Table 7). None of the variety was at par with Lothow Bora in terms of calcium content. The highest mean for phospohorous was recorded in Ranjit (0.39) and lowest mean was for Beji Lahi (0.24) (Dutta and Baruah (1978)’ Kandali et al., 1995; Ahmed et al., 1998) .None of the variety was at par with Ranjit in terms of phosphorous content. Highest Iron content was found in Solpona (3.49 mg/100g) and lowest content was found in Kola Joha (2.26 mg/100 g) (Dutta and Baruah (1978), Kandali et al., 1995; Ahmed et al., 1998). None of the genotypes was at par with Solpona in terms of Iron content (Table 7). The highest genotype was Ranjit in terms of Zinc content having 2.92 mg/100 g and lowest was Malbhog Lahi (1.64 mg/100g). No variety was at par with Ranjit in terms of zinc content (Table 7) (Sotelo et al, 1989; Anjum et al., 2007; Thongbam et al., 2012).\r\nEnvironmental mean performance: It is interesting to know that iron and zinc content had significantly higher mean under organic situation. In contrast starch content, crude protein, amylose, calcium and phosphorous per cent had higher mean under conventional condition (Table 8).\r\n G × E interaction: Zinc is an important micronutrient for human health. It is estimated that about 49% of the world’s population is at the risk of low zinc intake (Cichy et al. 2005). The G x E interaction for all biochemical characters except iron and zinc were non-significant in the study (Table 9). It is interesting to know that Solpuna (3.730 mg/100g) has highest iron content and Kola Sali (3.513 mg/100g) is at par with Solpuna in terms of iron content. Solpuna is the only variety which has given high iron content in organic condition and it is not comparable to any varieties grown under inorganic condition. \r\nIn case of zinc highest content is found in Ranjit (3.237 mg/100g) grown under organic condition and it is followed by Begi Lahi (2.917 mg/100g) and Lothow Bora (2.917 mg/100g) which is also grown under organic condition. This indicates improvement of iron content in the rice varieties can be done in organic growing condition which appears to be an important finding of the experiment because iron deficiency affects 3 billion people around the globe (Long et al. 2004). Studies of Naik et al., 2020 also reported high amount of naturally available zinc and iron sources which is stable over different environments. In case of zinc all the genotypes under organic condition showed higher content than inorganic. Hence, varieties bred under organic situation are likely to improve the important micro nutrient like zinc in the rice grain. ','Lonishree Dutta, K.K. Sharma and Debojit Sarma (2022). Comparative Assessment of Mean Performance, G × E Interaction and Genetic Variability Parameter for Nutritional Traits in Landraces of Assam under Organic and Conventional Cultivation Methods. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 14(2): 300-306.'),(4849,'125','Genetic Variability Studies in Bread Wheat (Triticum aestivum L.) under Multi-Environment Trials in Northern Hills Zone','Ravi Sharma, Vijay Rana , Shubham Verma*, Chetan Gupta, Priyanka, Amit Rana, Aparajita Dwivedi, Akriti Sharma and V.K. Sood','55 Genetic Variability Studies in Bread Wheat _Triticum aestivum L._ under Multi-Environment Trials in Northern Hills Zone Shubham Verma.pdf','',1,'Wheat (Triticum aestivum L.) is one of the most important cereal crop among the prime cereals at the global level. The possibility of a successful crop improvement depends considerably on the extent of genetic variability in a crop species. Accordingly, in the present investigation, thirty five bread wheat genotypes were evaluated in randomized complete block design with three replications at seven different agro-ecological zones of Himachal Pradesh to estimate the extent of genetic diversity. Phenotypic data was recorded for eight characters namely days to 50% flowering, days to 75% maturity, plant height (cm), tillers per plant (No.), peduncle length (cm), grain yield per plant (g), biological yield per plant (g) and thousand kernel weight (g). The analysis of variance revealed significant difference in all environments for all the investigated traits. The highest value for GCV and PCV was observed for peduncle length (29.44 and 26.71 respectively). Moderate to high GCV, PCV, heritability and genetic advance as % of mean showed by two traits viz. peduncle length and thousand kernel weight; heritability broad sense (h2bs) and GA (%) of mean was observed moderate to high for days to 50% flowering, days to 75% maturity, plant height, peduncle length and thousand kernel weight. Showing crucial involvement of additive gene action and selection will be efficient for these characters. ','Wheat, multi-environment trials, variability parameters, heritability, genetic advance','The evaluated genotypes showed considerable variability for the studied traits under Multi-environment Trials (METs) in Northern Hills Zone. Eight genotypes HPW 314, HPW349, TAW 164, HPW 442, PW 1076, MT 19-18, TAW 172 and MLW 1449, were at par to the check varieties HS 542 HS 490 HS 562 and were significantly superior to other genotypes in pooled grain yield per plant over seven environments. These genotypes can be further evaluated over the years under METs and can be utilized in future breeding programs.','INTRODUCTION \r\nWheat (Triticum aestivum L. 2n = 42) is an important cereal crop and is the staple food for more than 2.5 billion people all over the world (CRP, 2018). Globally it provides 20% of dietary calories and protein, thus contributing considerably to food security (Shiferaw et al., 2013). Worldwide wheat is the most widely cultivated than any other crop (Curtis and Halford, 2014) on an area of 219 million hectares with an annual production of 760.92 million metric tons (FAO, 2020). However, the key challenges to wheat production which leads to a decreased yield are the low annual rate (0.9%) of yield increase (Ray et al., 2013), stagnating yields (Ray et al., 2012) and the impacts of biotic stresses, abiotic stresses and climate change (Wheeler and von Braun 2013). Hence, to accelerate wheat breeding for higher yield potential, lesser genetic vulnerable, stress resistance and climate resilience, it is important to diversify the wheat germplasm resources.\r\nDetermination of genetic variability is useful for crop improvement to boost productivity in more efficient way along with enhanced resistance under different stress conditions (Khodadadi et al., 2011). Thus, genetic improvement of crops including wheat relies on the availability of diverse and superior genotypes. It has, however, been frequently asserted that modern and intensive monoculture of prominent cultivars led to narrowing of genetic variability in crops. In recent years, this possibly led to a genetic vulnerability of crops to biotic and abiotic stresses (Vellve 1993; Russell et al., 2000; Fu et al., 2005). Thus, it is vital in plant breeding programs to broaden its genetic background of crops to maintain sufficient genetic diversity to allow production of new and diverse varieties suitable for cultivation under a variety of biotic and abiotic stress conditions (Singh et al., 2016; Zampieri et al., 2017). \r\nGrain yield is a complex trait, highly influenced by many environmental factors and genotype and environment interactions. In plant breeding programme, direct selection for yield could be misleading. A successful selection depends upon the knowledge on the genetic variability and association of agro-morphological traits with grain yield. So there is an acute need to assess the variability amongst various germplasm resources in different environments.\r\nAdaptation of variable wheat genotypes at diverse agro-ecological conditions of the northern hills zone under Multi-environment Trials (METs) is useful, as performance of genotypes over range of environments are considered to measure the criteria for genetic stability. The main objective of breeders is to develop varieties that give stable productivity under variable environmental conditions. The alteration in yield is the result of genotype × environment interaction. Thus, testing is done by assessing the variable wheat genotypes under different environmental conditions, to analyse the stability of a genotype, which gives the clear cut picture of the performance by variable genotypes at different locations. \r\nMATERIAL AND METHODS\r\nThe experimental materials comprised of 35 diverse wheat genotypes including elite cultivars, advance lines, released varieties and three checks HS 542, HS 490 and HS 562. The experiments were carried out in randomized complete block design (RCBD) having three replications, at seven environments in five locations across different agroclimatic conditions of Northern Hills Zone viz., Research Sub Station Akrot (Una); Krishi Vigyan Kendra (KVK), Sundernagar; Hill Agricultural Research and Extension Centre (HAREC), Bajaura; Department of Organic Agriculture, College of Agriculture, CSKHPKV Palampur and Rice and Wheat Research Centre, Malan (RWRC Malan) during Rabi 2019-20.\r\nEach genotype was sown in three rows with plot size of 2.0 × 0.6 m2 with row to row spacing of 20 cm. The observations were recorded on five randomly selected competitive plants in each replication on various phonological and morpho-physiological traits namely: days to 50% flowering (DTF), days to 75% maturity (DTM), plant height (cm) (PH), tillers per plant (No.) (TPP), peduncle length (cm) (PL), grain yield per plant (g) (GY), biological yield per plant (g) (BY) and thousand kernel weight (g) (TKW).\r\nStatistical analysis. The Statistical analysis of the data for variability over the seven locations (environments) was done with the help of software WINDOSTAT Version 9.2 from Indostat Services, Hyderabad. Scott-Knott clustering algorithm was used to make comparison between treatment means (Scott and Knott, 1974).\r\nAnalysis of variance was done as per Panse and Sukhatme (1984). The analysis of variance (ANOVA) was constructed based on the linear model given by Fisher (1954):\r\nYij = m + gi + rj + eij\r\n\r\nWhere, Yij is phenotypic observation of ith genotype grown in the jth replication; m is General population mean; gi is Effect of ith genotype; rj is the effect of jth replication and eij is error associated with ith genotype in jth replication.\r\nThe phenotypic & genotypic components of variance (PCV & GCV), heritability in broad sense (h²bs) and Genetic advance as (%) of mean were computed as suggested by Burton and De Vane (1953); Johnson et al. (1955).\r\nPhenotypic coefficient of variation (PCV %) = (σp/ x) × 100\r\nGenotypic coefficient of variation (GCV %) = (σg/ x) × 100\r\nWhere, σp is the phenotypic standard deviation; σg is the genotypic standard deviation; σe is environmental standard deviation and x is the population mean.\r\nHeritability [h²bs%] = σ²g / (σ²g + σ²e) × 100\r\nWhere, σ²g is genotypic variance and σ²e is phenotypic variance\r\nGenetic advance (GA) = K × σp × h² (bs)\r\nGA% of mean = (GA/ x) × 100\r\nWhere, K is the selection differential at 5% selection intensity i.e. 2.06.\r\n \r\n\r\n\r\nRESULTS AND DISCUSSIONS\r\nAnalysis of variance and mean comparison. The analysis of variance revealed (Table 1) significant difference in all the investigated traits in all environments.\r\nThe seed yield per plant in pooled environments ranged from 4.59-5.84 with a mean value of 5.27 g and it is minimum in E4 (2.40g) and maximum in E6 (7.80g). In E2 seven genotypes viz., TAW 164, HPW 376, HPW 439, HPW 373, HPW 314 and BW 272 were significantly superior to the best check i.e., HS 542; in all other environments none of the genotype was significantly superior to the best check.\r\nParameters of variability. The various parameters of variability viz., mean, range, phenotypic coefficient of variation (PCV) and genotypic coefficient of variation (GCV) along with heritability in broad sense (h2bs) and genetic advance (GA) expressed as percentage of mean for different traits are presented in Table 2.\r\nHigh PCV (>25%) was observed for peduncle length; moderate (15-25%) for tillers per plant, Thousand kernel weight whereas, it was low (<15%) for days to 50% flowering, days to 75% maturity, plant height, biological yield per plant and grain yield per plant. High GCV (>25%) was observed for peduncle length; whereas, it was low (<15%) for days to 50% flowering, days to 75% maturity, plant height, tillers per plant, thousand kernel weight, biological yield per plant and grain yield per plant. The lower value of GCV as compared to PCV for all the traits indicated that the effect of environment was negligible on the development of plants. \r\nThe experiments revealed that broad sense heritability (h2bs) was high (>70%) for days to 50% flowering, days to 75% maturity and peduncle length; moderate (50-70%) for plant height whereas, it was low (<50%) for number of tillers, thousand kernel weight, biological yield per plant and grain yield per plant. Genetic advance expressed as percentage of mean was not observed to be high (>50%) for none of the trait; moderate (25-50%) for peduncle length and thousand kernel weight and low (>25%) for days to 50% flowering, days to 70% maturity, plant height, tillers per plant, biological yield per plant and grain yield per plant. \r\nThe traits viz. peduncle length and thousand kernel weight showed moderate to high GCV, PCV, heritability and genetic advance as % of mean, showing crucial involvement of additive gene action in the expression of these traits. \r\nScott-Knot Test Grouping have revealed that the eight genotypes 25, 31, 7, 16, 18, 19, 9 and 29 (i.e., HPW 314, HPW349, TAW 164, HPW 442, PW 1076, MT 19-18, TAW 172 and MLW 1449) are at par to each other and to the check varieties HS 542 HS 490 HS 562 and were significantly superior in pooled grain yield per plant over seven environments to the rest of genotypes. \r\nThe analysis of variance showed the existence of adequate genetic variation at various agro-ecological zones of Himachal Pradesh, among the various wheat genotypes for all the traits studied. Jee et al. (2019) also found that the analysis of variance was highly significant between the genotypes under their study. It shows that the germplasm selected for the study have significant variability which is required by any breeding program. It was observed that value of PCV was slightly higher than the value of GCV. Similar results were observed by Singh et al. (2018) in wheat, Gautam et al. (2021) in chickpea and Shiva Kumar et al. (2021) in linseed indicating less effect of environment on the expression of traits studied. \r\nModerate to high PCV and GCV was observed for peduncle length, tillers per plant, Thousand kernel weight. Singh et al. (2019); Morteza et al. (2018) recorded high GCV and PCV for biological yield per plot and harvest index. \r\nHeritability and genetic advance are two important selection parameters, these are useful in selection for various traits for genetic improvement of grain yield in wheat. Heritability broad sense (h2bs) and GA (%) of mean was observed moderate to high for days to 50% flowering, days to 75% maturity, plant height, peduncle length and thousand kernel weight. Singh et al. (2019) observed high heritability and genetic advance as 5% mean for traits like harvest index, number of grains per spike and biological yield per plot. Singh et al. (2018) also found high GCV and PCV along with high heritability and high genetic advance which indicated considerable inclusion of additive gene action and selection would be effective for these traits. \r\n','Ravi Sharma, Vijay Rana , Shubham Verma, Chetan Gupta, Priyanka, Amit Rana, Aparajita Dwivedi, Akriti Sharma and V.K. Sood (2022). Genetic Variability Studies in Bread Wheat (Triticum aestivum L.) under Multi-Environment Trials in Northern Hills Zone. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 14(2): 307-313.'),(4850,'125','Towards Organic Rice: Present Status and Prospects for the Future','Rajendra Kumar Jena, Hina Upadhyay**, Kasula Vamshi Krishna and Prasann Kumar*','56 Towards Organic Rice Present Status and Prospects for the Future Prasann Kumar.pdf','',1,'Often when we hear of organic farming, we immediately associate it with avoiding or limiting the use of synthetic fertilizers, pesticides, growth regulators, and other additives to livestock feed. By establishing a healthy agroecosystem, we can produce healthier foods and maintain soil biological activity and biodiversity, along with the agroecosystem itself. Currently, India is poised to export organic rice to markets around the world with huge potential. The agricultural and processed food products export development authority (APEDA) served as a channel for the export of 46, 30, 463.14 MT of organic basmati rice from India during 2020-2021. India exports basmati rice to 132 countries in the world. A good rice crop can be produced using organic farming, but there are many challenges, such as lack of water, nitrogen stress during critical growth stages, weed competition, and a lack of organic resources. There are a number of organic nutrition sources that can be utilized in an organic rice planting system, such as vermicompost, chicken manure, green manures, and bio-fertilizers. It is imperative to choose rice varieties that are organically developed, resistant to diseases, strong responders to nutrient inputs, and capable of competing with weeds so that the crop can be protected from the possibility of crop failures. The greenhouse gas emissions from organic rice fields have been observed to increase non-significance, which is important for environmental sustainability (GHGS). We need to highlight the norms and practices associated with current organic rice production in order to avoid the use of synthetic fertilizers in our endeavour to increase the quality of the product as well as the productivity with organic rice production in order to be able to successfully eliminate the use of chemical fertilizers. The purpose of this study is to examine the status of organic agriculture worldwide and in India and to discuss nutrient management and pest management for organic rice cultivation.','Agriculture, Biotic, Crop, Dose, Organic, Methane, Nutrients, Pest','It is concluded that the demand of organically grown food is increasing day by day. As a result, the area under organic farming is also increasing every year. To increasing organic rice, farming it is most important to emphasized nutrient management and pest management practice. For better rice cultivation under organic farming is to supply adequate amount of nutrient to the plant at critical growth stage and enhance the productivity of organic rice systems in the future, application of nutrient-rich manures must be thoroughly researched. To control pest and disease it should be proper monitoring the pest population and apply required dose of organically developed insecticide and pesticides. ','INTRODUCTION\r\nIn organic farming, efforts should be made to reduce reliance on chemical inputs (fertilizers, pesticides, antibiotics, and genetically modified organisms), as well as to use the land free from the use of chemicals for more than three years. More than 186 countries of the world now practice organic agriculture or organic farming in a total area of 71.5 million hectares. The number of organic farms keeps increasing every year. During the period of the green revolution, chemical fertilizers and pesticides were widely used, which eventually contributed to the contamination of the soil, water, and air. In order to overcome this problem, organic farming practices should be used to reduce the damages caused by chemical fertilizers. When chemical fertilizers are used, they reduce soil fertility, productivity, and biological activity. In increasing numbers, organic foods are becoming increasingly popular around the globe. It is estimated that there are approximately 2.8 million organic farmers all over the world. Despite the fact that the majority of Asian countries lack access to organic market statistics, we can assume that the organic market will continue to expand. The organic farming system is also seen as being a sustainable one since it uses fewer inputs from outside the farm, is solely based on traditional methods, and benefits the environment tremendously. Using organic agriculture, we can help to mitigate the problem caused by intensive conventional farming, thus reducing the negative effects. In fact, the word \"organic rice cultivation\" has existed for quite some time and is not a new one. A vast majority of farming communities in India have been practicing this technique for many years, especially in Punjab, Haryana, Manipur, Sikkim, Arunachal Pradesh, and Uttarakhand. More than 95 percent of organic agriculture is thought to be based on crop varieties produced for the conventional high-input industry (Lammerts van Bueren et al., 2011).\r\nNevertheless, the production of rice in organic farming is much lower when compared with conventional farming. There have been instances of insect pest outbreaks in rice farming practices in the past. Natural enemy density was lower in the organically-farmed paddy plot than in the control treatment (Kajimura et al., 1993; Kajimura et al., 1995). \r\nAs of right now, we use a large number of insecticides and pesticides, which will have an impact on rice productivity, so it is needed to overcome this problem. However, in organic farming, there will be no adverse effects on crops due to the overuse of these chemicals. A study has shown that the yield obtained from organic farming is less than the yield obtained from conventional farming. One of the reasons can be attributed to pest management and nutrition deficiencies. In addition to all the cereal crops, rice is one of the most effective crops to be grown in organic farming. The soil types, environments, and cultivars used by organic farmers are different from those used by conventional farmers. As a result, organic farmers must select varieties that are suitable for low-input fields. Although, organic rice farming improves the appearance quality of rice grains, the cooking quality, and the amount of protein that is contained in the rice grain. It has been observed that certain factors are affecting grain yield in organic farming, such as yield-limiting factors, crop-weed competition, a lack of input, not enough nutrients (mostly nitrogen), pest and disease damage, etc. \r\nWorld Scenario of Organic Farming. It is expected that the Organic Agriculture Research Institute (FIBL) and IFOAM will be presenting an overview of current global organic agriculture data in Friedrichshafen, Germany, on 12 February 2020 - 2018 was yet another record-breaking year for organic agriculture around the globe. According to the latest FiBL report on organic agriculture, worldwide, organic farmland has grown by 2.0 million hectares in the last 10 years, and organic agriculture is rapidly expanding throughout the world, with organic agriculture already being practiced in over 186 countries (statistics as of the end of 2018). Over 71.5 million hectares of farmland are certified organic throughout the world for the year 2018 based on a recent survey conducted by the Organic Trade Association. Approximately 35.7 million hectares of land are used for organic agriculture, based on USDA figures. As a result, organic agriculture occupies a large portion of the land in Australia, China (3.6 million hectares), and Argentina (3.6 million hectares). It is estimated that half of the organic agricultural land in the world is located in Oceania (36.0 million ha) and the second-largest area is in Europe (15.6 million ha). The total globe agricultural land, which is organic, is 1.5 percent. The percentage share of total agricultural land in Oceania is the highest, 8.6%, followed by Europe at 3.1% and Latin America at 1.1% (Fig. 1).\r\nOrganic farming is not a new concept for Indian farmers; it has existed for a long period. Because of the use of chemicals since the period of the Green Revolution, this demand has been steadily declining over the years. In some mountainous areas and tribal areas, the people do not know what conventional farming is and they use a traditional method of growing crops. Crop residue management can be helpful in rice-based cropping systems in the tropics, for nutrient cycling and also improved soil productivity (Singh et al., 2007). It is reported that various states of India cultivate rice according to organic methods, such as Punjab, Haryana, Uttar Pradesh, and other states. As per the Department of Agriculture, Government of India\'s latest Kharif sowing report released on September 27, 2019, the country\'s total acreage of paddy for the current year is estimated to be 382.34 lakh hectares. As you all know, each of the Indian states has a different area of paddy cultivation compared to another. This information is shown in Fig. 3.\r\nIndian organic rice is exported to a large number of countries around the world. The Agricultural and Processed Food Products Export Development Authority (APEDA) enables India to produce and export basmati rice, fragrant rice, and other rice varieties (Agricultural and Processed Food Products Export Development Authority). It is true that some states in India, such as Punjab, Haryana, and Uttar Pradesh, are producing large amounts of organic rice and exporting it to various countries. We consume a wide variety of rice varieties in our country such as Basmati, White, Red, Brown, Jasmine, Parboiled, and Sticky Rice. White rice and Basmati rice are the most common types of rice produced in our country. The main crop that is planted in the United States is rice, which is the type of crop that is extensively planted with pesticides and fertilizers, so pest and nutrient management for organic rice farming are major challenges. \r\nNutrient Management in Organic Rice Farming. It is extremely important to control the nutrient levels during the organic rice growing process. Many plant nutrients are required for high-yielding rice crops, especially those that are high in yields. Organic farming does not use conventional inputs and nutrients; therefore, it is important to regulate the number of nutrients available throughout the harvesting process of the crops. The provision of organic matter throughout the critical growth period is a critical component of an organic rice production system because it is at this time when the crop is most vulnerable to nutrient stress. The sustainable use of organic fertilizers and organic nutrients is heavily dependent on crop demand because organic manures release nutrients at a slower rate than fertilizers derived from inorganic sources. It has been found that nitrogen is the most limiting nutrient in irrigated rice production, especially in organic farming systems. In organic rice cultivation, it is frequently difficult to feed nitrogen to rice plants according to their requirements. The mineralization of N in soil is inhibited under conditions of flooded aerobic rice cultivation. There is a major improvement in the rate of nitrogen mineralization in the rice intensification (SRI) system, owing to the fact that the non-flooded aerobic state along with the secretion of enzymes increase the activity of microorganisms in the soil is maintained. During the growing season, rice soils with organic N are typically less likely to release Nitrogen (N). In general, rice\'s response to phosphorus in submerging conditions is unfavourable because flooding reduces soil phosphorus sorption and increases phosphorus diffusion, resulting in a larger phosphorus supply to rice (Dobermann et al., 2000). In addition, phosphorus uptake by rich soils that have been flooded with alkaline soils has been improved by calcium and calcium carbonate release due to a decrease in pH caused by flooding (Fageria et al., 2011). During the 1970s, it was discovered to increase the oxidation level of the soil, thereby improving organic phosphorus mineralization, compensating for the negative impact flooding has on phosphorus availability. Nakajima et al. (1993) compared 13 pairs of paddy soils managed organically and conventionally, discovering that organic management resulted in lower Truog-P. I believe that Hasegawa et al. (2005) discovered that there was no significant difference in Truog-P levels between organic and conventional rice soils in the study. As a result, P-related stress in organic rice production is difficult to detect. Under N-limiting conditions, however, \"Liebig\'s law of minimum\" could be used to explain why organic rice systems phosphate uptake is greatly limited. It is now regarded as important that mycorrhizae act as intermediaries for the absorption of phosphorus by plants. A variety of rice differs in the amount of nitrogen, phosphorus, and potassium it can absorb. The absorption of nitrogen, phosphorus, potassium, and sulphur by fine-grain rice varieties was found to be lower than that of coarse-grain rice varieties.\r\nCrop Management Practices in Organic Rice Production\r\nNutrient supply in organic rice production: It is vital to have the soil provided with adequate nutrients when it comes to organic farming since the quality of the organic matter in the soil is one of the most crucial factors when it comes to the quality of the food. It has been found that a number of methods are effective, including green manures, Azolla spp., biofertilizers, crop residue incorporation, and the use of composts. Green manure and biofertilizers not only contribute to the increased organic matter content of the soil but also help prevent weeds from growing in the rice fields. In addition, Mian, in 2002 reported that when Azolla is used as a biofertilizer for irrigated rice, the use of urea is decreased by 30-40%. In general the effects of organic matter management in paddy fields on organic matter buildup, nitrogen sources in the soils, and rice development (Shiga et al.,1985).\r\nIt is a well-known fact that on organic farms, we use natural manure and on-farm by-products to enhance soil consistency. In order to fix the soil\'s pH, it may be necessary to lime the soil. Farmers can make compost using animal manures and by-products. The use of vermicomposting in organic farming is also becoming increasingly popular. When the compost is applied to the fields, it is helpful in killing any unwanted bacteria and weed seeds before the compost is applied. This is why monitoring organic inputs within the rice ecosystem are crucial. In fact, organic material differs according to the number of nutrients it contains, the rate at which nutrients are released, and the C: N ratio (Venkateswarlu et al., 2008). According to the type of soil, input quantity, paddy variety, and time of application, organic agriculture can vary greatly. It is strongly recommended that nitrogen be applied in split applications when critical growth stages have been reached with organic manures that are rich in N, such as vermicompost and hen manure. As far as organic rice cultivation is concerned, organic manures such as animal manure, vermicompost, fly ash, compost, farm, and straw are widely used. As far as phosphorus, potassium, and zinc are concerned, they were only given at the basal stage, maxima tillering, and panicle initiation stages. Because of the results shown by the experiments, researchers concluded that when plant nutrients are provided from a single organic source (i.e., only green manure, only FYM), in comparison to the fertilizer requirement rate, it has an approximately 8 percent effect on rice grain production. In addition, we calculated that by integrating multiple organic input sources into the system, the agricultural yields could be increased by about 10%, which means that inorganic fertilizer rates can be reduced. The rate of organic nutrient input is calculated by comparing the equivalent rate of N to the organic nutrient input rate (Murmu et al., 2013). Rice plants benefit from both legume-based crop rotations as well as green manure, which can be an efficient way of supplying plant nutrients for the growth of rice plants. It has been shown that legumes are responsible for managing up to 30-50 percent of the nitrogen requirement for rice plants (Preston, 2003), as well as for controlling weeds. In order to aid in the organic rice production system, various types of biofertilizers are available which can give nutrients to rice crops. Examples of such biofertilizers include Rhizobium, Azotobacter, Azospirillum, phosphate-solubilizing microorganisms (PSMs), and Azolla. Azolla, in comparison to the other biofertilizers, decomposes more rapidly, produces a higher amount of nitrogen for the rice plants than the other biofertilizers (Waseem et al., 2012) and can increase rice production by up to 1.4-1.5 tons per hectare (Waseem et al., 2012). The market is currently experiencing a high demand for aromatic rice, which includes fine-grain aromatic rice in addition to basmati rice. Research studies have shown that organic produce is healthier, tastier, and safer than conventional farm produce.\r\nPest and Disease Management in Organic Rice Production. Traditionally, organic farming has relied only on the use of bio pesticides and natural botanicals to control pests and diseases. Herbicides, consequently, should be avoided as much as possible. An organic rice farming system has many factors that cause the yield of rice to reduce. Of all these factors, pest populations are the most important. On the other hand, if you use the correct pesticide at the right time, you could be able to reduce pest pressure during the period during which the plant goes through its most critical growth period. There have been numerous reports on the fact that by applying more than the recommended amount of chemical fertilizers or pesticides, there is some toxicity impact on the plant apparent, but this is not the case with organic pesticides. Based on a survey completed by the Organic Farming Research Foundation (OFRF), there is a strong consensus among organic farmers in the United States that weed management should be prioritized as a research project (Walz, 1999). In herbicide-restricted organic farming systems (Hokazono and Hayashi 2012), weeds pose a key problem, and they are widely regarded as the second most significant yield-limiting factor, behind insufficient soil nitrogen availability under organic production. It is important to adjust the planting schedules and locations of crops in organic farming to avoid serious pest problems. This is one of the most important aspects of organic farming. As part of our other methods of pest management, we grow host crops to assist in attracting beneficial insects to our main crop, which in turn does not allow them to attack our main crop. However, in some cases, if there is a pest outbreak that cannot be controlled by beneficial insects, this means that we have to use organic or natural insecticides, such as products containing neem (1% Nethrin/Nimbecidine) which are low in toxicity to humans and other animals and have a low persistence in the environment. Various methods can be used to control pest/insect problems in different field crops such as pheromone traps, Trichogramma parasites, and so on. It has also been demonstrated that this type of field experiment was conducted at the Indian Agricultural Research Institute, New Delhi, and many other places where organic farming is being practiced and that there is no serious attack of any insect pest or disease on organically grown rice plants. Organic farming has the advantage of containing soil-borne pathogens by applying a higher amount of organic manure, which also increases the quality of soil as well (Van Bruggen et al., 2016). The majority of diseases and pests can be prevented by improved soil quality and increased microbial activity in plants (Chaubey et al., 2017; Birkhofer et al., 2008). Rice produced organically is usually grown with bio-pesticides that are primarily used for the control of disease and insects. During a recent study, researchers found that foliar applications of vermiwash, neem oil, aqueous garlic, and Annona leaf extract reduced the population of Gandhi bugs (Leptocorisa varicornis) (Mishra et al., 2015).\r\n','Rajendra Kumar Jena, Hina Upadhyay, Kasula Vamshi Krishna and Prasann Kumar (2022). Towards Organic Rice: Present Status and Prospects for the Future. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 14(2): 314-319.'),(4851,'125','‘Guni’ Method (System of Ragi Intensification) for Enhanced Yield, Nutrient Uptake and Economics in Finger Millet','Shashikala Padesur, Padmaja Bhimireddy*, Syed Ahmed Hussain and Pavan Chandra Reddy K.','57 ‘Guni’ Method _System of Ragi Intensification_ for Enhanced Yield, Nutrient Uptake and Economics in Finger Millet Padmaja Bhimireddy.pdf','',1,'Finger millet is called as Climate Change Compliant Crop, owing to its capability to withstand water stress, nutrition stress and warming stress. The productivity of finger millet under dry land conditions is low owing to low yielding varieties and poor management practices. Method of planting or establishment and planting geometry plays important role in harnessing the resources to fullest potential. Of late, System of Crop Intensification (SCI) concept is becoming popular in many crops. A study was carried out at Professor Jayashankar Telangana State Agricultural University, Rajendranagar, Hyderabad to evaluate the performance of rainfed finger millet (cultivar; Bharathi) in ‘guni’ method (System of Ragi Intensification, SRI) of planting at different crop geometry during the kharif season in 2019-20. The experiment was assigned twelve treatments, laid out in split plot design with three replications. The treatments included: Main plots: 3 methods of establishment; M1: Direct line sowing, M2: Transplanting of 25 days old seedlings, M3: Transplanting of 25 days old seedlings in ‘Guni’ method; Subplots: 4 planting geometries; S1: 30 × 10 cm, S2: 30 × 30 cm, S3: 45 × 45 cm and S4: 60 × 60 cm. The results revealed that number of ear heads, finger length and ear head weight were significantly higher in guni method compared to transplanting and direct sowing. Even though large number of ear heads were produced at 30 × 10 cm geometry, the ear head weight, mean finger length were superior at wider spacing. The grain yield (3423 kg ha-1), straw yield (4939 kg ha-1) were significantly enhanced by transplanting of 25 days old seedlings in ‘guni’ method at 45×45 cm spacing over other treatment combinations. The nutrient uptake (N, P and K) and B-C ratio were also higher in ‘guni’ method at 45 × 45 cm spacing but N availability after the harvest of the crop was lower in ‘guni’ method compared to direct sowing and transplanting. Hence, it can be concluded that transplanting of 25 days old seedlings in ‘guni’ method with 45 × 45 cm spacing performed better than mere transplanting of 25 days old seedlings and direct line sowing method in finger millet.','Economics, Finger millet, ‘Guni’ method, Plant Uptake, Yield attributes, Yield','From the present study, it can be concluded that transplanting of rainfed finger millet in ‘guni’ method at 45 cm × 45 cm spacing led to enhanced yield, nutrient uptake and improved economics.','INTRODUCTION\r\nFinger millet is small seeded grass, self-pollinated, robust, tufted and tillered annual cereal crop (Michaelraj and Shanmugam 2013). The crop can withstand three challenges i.e. warming stress, water stress and nutrition stress therefore; called as Climate Change Compliant Crop (CCCC) (Ferry, 2014). It is cultivated over an area of 1.19 million hectares with a production of 1.98 million tonne giving an average productivity of 1661 kg per ha. Karnataka accounts for 56.21 and 59.52% of area and production of finger millet followed by Tamil Nadu (9.94% and 18.27%), Uttarakhand (9.40% and 7.76%) and Maharashtra (10.56% and 7.16%), respectively (http://www.indiastat.com). It is still dominated as marginal crop and grown under poor management. Rigorous research efforts have been made to improve the productivity and sustainability of finger millet since half century in India. With the release of new varieties along with good agronomic practices, it has been possible to achieve substantial increase in yield levels and productivity. Production potential of finger millet under dry land conditions is influenced by many factors viz., improved varieties, methods of planting or establishment, planting geometry, nutrient management etc. In this direction, the method of establishment called System of Crop Intensification (SCI) is a recent practice and not much work has been done on this aspect.\r\nSystem of Crop Intensification previously called as System of Root Intensification (SRI) was practiced only in rice to increase the yield of rice (Abraham et al., 2014) by planting the single young seedling at wider spacing. SCI approach facilitates the use of young seedling and wider spacing. The main objective of SCI is to produce more from less using fewer seed and less water but manage the relationship between plant and soil so this is called as low input approach (Abraham et al., 2014). It enables the crop to grow and develop potentially which provides enhanced production in sustainable and ecofriendly manner. Therefore, classical crop cultivation practices needs to overhaul by adopting system of crop intensification for more profitable and sustainable agriculture (Gupta et al., 2018). \r\nPlanting method varies among farmers according to their choice; leisure period, labour availability and wage rates etc. The most practiced method in finger millet is broadcasting and random transplanting. There is uneven distribution of plants which causes the competition among plants for moisture and nutrients. Yield enhancement in finger millet is possible when cultivated with SCI, because there is less competition among plants and weed, plants can utilize below and above ground resources efficiently (Bhatta et al., 2017). Guni or guli is the vernacular name in Kannada language representing the idea of SCI in finger millet also called as scooping method. In ‘guli’ ragi cultivation, young millet seedlings 20–25 days old are transplanted into holes spaced 45 × 45 cm in a square grid pattern, two seedlings per hole. Guli ragi includes putting a handful of compost or manure into each hole along with the seedlings to boost soil fertility (Adhikari et al., 2018). Further, when the plants are established in a square grid, inter-cultivation between rows is possible in perpendicular directions, not just between rows. It is similar to SRI method of paddy cultivation called as “System of Ragi Intensification” (http://agritech.tnau.ac.in). In the awake of the attempts to popularize this concept and surge in the interest of farmers, a need has risen to generate the scientific data to validate this concept.\r\nMATERIALS AND METHODS\r\nA field experiment was conducted during kharif, 2019-2020 at Agricultural College Farm, Professor Jayashankar Telangana State Agricultural University, Rajendranagar, Hyderabad with twelve treatments laid out in split plot design with three replications. The soil of the experimental site was sandy clay loam in texture, neutral in reaction (pH 7.11), low in organic carbon (0.48 %) and available nitrogen (121 kg ha-1), medium in available phosphorous (32.2 kg ha-1) and available potassium (219 kg ha-1). Treatments included Main plots; Methods of establishment M1: Direct line sowing, M2: Transplanting of 25 days old seedlings, M3: Transplanting of 25 days old seedlings in ‘Guni’ method; Subplots: planting geometries: 4, S1: 30 × 10 cm, S2: 30 × 30 cm, S3: 45 × 45 cm and S4: 60 × 60 cm. Finger millet variety ‘Bharati’ (UR 762) was used for the experiment. \r\nThe experimental field was ploughed under dry condition with tractor drawn disc plough followed by ploughing with cultivator and the clods were broken with rotovator. Finally, the field was uniformly leveled and laid out into experimental plots separated by buffer channels as per the treatments. Direct sowing was taken up as per the treatments on 18th July, 2019. On the same day, seeds were sown in the nursery for transplanting in M2 and M3. The nursery area taken for raising seedlings was @ 150 m2 per ha. The land was ploughed and beds were prepared with a bed size of 2.0 m × 2.0 m. The seeds were line sown evenly on the beds. Powdered FYM was evenly sprinkled to cover the seeds and watering was done at evening hours. After 15 days top dressing was done at 250 g of urea for every seed bed. Seedlings were ready for transplanting at 25 DAS. In M2 treatment i.e., transplanting of the seedlings were taken up in different geometries as per the treatments @ 2-3 seedlings per hill on 12th August, 2019. For ‘guni’ method, the individual plots were uniformly leveled and small gunis or scoops were formed manually using spade at an intersect point of 30 cm × 10 cm, 30 cm × 30 cm, 45 cm × 45 cm and 60 cm × 60 cm spacing. A well rotten FYM @ 1 kg/scoop as spot placement was made to ‘guni’ planting method. On the same day i.e., 12th August, 2019, transplanting of 25 days old seedlings was done in the centre of the ‘guni’ @ 2-3 seedlings per hill. The row to row and plant to plant spacing were kept 30 cm × 10 cm, 30 cm × 30 cm, 45 cm × 45 cm, 60 cm × 60 cm as per the treatments.\r\nRecommended dose of N, P2O5 and K2O (40:30:25 kg ha-1) were applied in the form of urea, single super phosphate and muriate of potash. Half dose of N and full dose of P2O5 and K2O were applied as basal dose. Remaining quantity of nitrogen was applied to soil in two equal splits at tillering and panicle emergence. \r\nSampling: In order to record the yield parameters in each net plot, five representative plants were randomly selected and tagged. All the successive observations were recorded on the selected plants during the crop growth period. One row on either side of the plot and two plants on either end of each row were harvested as border rows. Besides this, one crop row was ear marked for periodical destructive sampling to estimate leaf area and dry matter production. The remaining plants in the plot were considered as net plot including five tagged plants which were harvested separately and after recording yield was added to net plot yield. The ear heads of finger millet in the net plot were harvested separately for each treatment at harvest stage and dried separately. Then ear heads of each plot were threshed manually, winnowed and cleaned separately. The straw in each net plot was harvested separately and sun dried. The grain and straw weight were recorded and converted to hectare. Experimental data obtained were subjected to statistical analysis adopting Fisher’s method of ‘analysis of variance’ as out lined by Gomez and Gomez (1984). \r\nRESULTS AND DISCUSSION\r\nA. Yield attributes\r\nThe yield attributes like number of ear heads per square meter, weight of ear head, and length of finger were significantly influenced by establishment method and crop geometry while number of fingers per ear head and test weight varied only due to crop geometry. The number of ear heads per unit area increased significantly with transplanting 25 days over direct line sowing and in guni method again over transplanting method. Highest number of ear heads were produced at 30 x 10 cm spacing compared to all the other wider spacing. But the mean weight of single ear head was more than doubled at each successive wider spacing compared to the previous one. Highest weight (13.1g) was recorded at 60 × 60 cm. Further, it was also significantly superior in guni method compared to direct sowing. Similarly, the mean finger length was enhanced significantly in transplanting method over direct sowing and further with guni method. Crop geometry also influenced the finger length which was enhanced significantly at 60 × 60 cm over 30 × 30 cm and 30 × 10 cm. \r\nThe number of ear heads per square meter and length of the fingers were also discernibly influenced by the interaction of both establishment method and crop geometries (Table 1). The combination of transplanting of 25 days old seedlings in guni method with 30 cm x 10 cm crop geometry recorded distinct and significantly higher yield attributes as compared to rest of the treatment combinations tested. On the other hand, the significantly lowest number of ear heads per square meter, number of fingers per ear head and length of the finger of finger millet was recorded with the treatment combination of direct line sowing with 60 cm × 60 cm crop geometry. Further, the treatment combination of direct line sowing with 45 cm × 45 cm crop geometry and transplanting of 25 days old seedlings with 60 cm × 60 cm crop geometry were at par to each other and significantly superior over direct line sowing with 60 cm × 60 cm crop geometry combination. The higher number of ear heads per square meter and test weight with transplanting of 25 days old seedlings in guni method with 30 cm × 10 cm crop geometry could be marked out due to presence of more number of plants per unit area with concurrent availability of space, moisture content and nutrients guni method. The interaction effect between establishment method and crop geometry was not significant with respect to weight of ear head (g), number of fingers per ear head and test weight of finger millet. \r\nAhiwale et al. (2011) also found that the finger millet crop established by transplanting at 20 cm × 15 cm spacing (Thomba method) produced higher ear weight and grain weight per ear. Further, the present results are in consonance with those of Navale (2013). \r\nB. Yield\r\nData presented in Table 2 indicated that grain and straw yield were influenced by establishment method, geometry and their interaction. Among all the tested combinations, M3S3 (Transplanting of 25 days old seedlings in guni method with 45 cm × 45 cm crop geometry) recorded the significantly higher grain yield (3423 kg ha-1), straw yield (4939 kg ha-1) and harvest index (0.38) which was comparable with M3S4 (Transplanting of 25 days old seedlings in guni method with 60 cm × 60 cm crop geometry) treatment combinations. On the other hand, the significantly lowest grain yield of 1663 kg ha-1 and straw yield of 3245 kg ha-1 was recorded with the treatment combination of M1S4 (Direct line sowing with 60 cm × 60 cm) and which was statistically comparable with that of M1S3 (Direct line sowing with 45 cm × 45 cm) crop geometry. Under optimum spaced environment (45 cm × 45 cm), the number of productive tillers per unit area and weight of ear heads were higher on per unit basis eventually which results in production of higher grain yield at the end. These results are also in consonance with the findings of Uphoff (2002) in SRI method of rice cultivation. Harvest index was also higher in guni method and 45 × 45 cm spacing. Roy et al. (2002); Zhu et al. (2002) also reported that planting of finger millet under wider spacing than closer spacing improved canopy photosynthesis, increased the percentage of productive tillers and ear head formation. Adhikari (2016) reported from Odisha that improved varieties of finger millet produced 4.8 tonnes/ha under SCI/SFI management, while local varieties gave 4.2 tonnes/ha with these methods. The highest yield recorded was 6 tonnes/ha. On fertile soils, finger millet yields with SCI methods have been found to average 4.5–4.7 tonnes/ha, a four-fold increase over farmers’ usual yields. In Nepal also, SCI grain yield was 82% higher than with direct-seeding, and 25% more than transplanting (Bhatta et al., 2017). Natarajan et al. (2019) from Tamil Nadu reported that 30 cm × 30 cm and 25 × 25 cm (wider spacing) was found to give better yields of finger millet in SCI compared to closer spacing i.e., 20 cm × 20 cm.\r\nC. Crop Nutrient Uptake\r\nNutrient uptake is the process of nutrient movement from an external environment into plant. It is one of the fundamental processes of plant’s life which involves qualitative change where an abiotic material becomes a component of a cell, capable of further assimilation.\r\nHigher nitrogen (109.8 kg ha-1), phosphorus (24.1 kg ha-1) and potassium (62.9 kg ha-1) uptake was evident from M3S3 (transplanting of 25 days old seedlings in ‘guni’ method with 45 cm × 45 cm crop geometry) which was statistically at par with that of M3S4 i.e., transplanting of 25 days old seedlings in ‘guni’ method with 60 cm × 60 cm crop geometry treatment combinations. On the other hand, the significantly lowest nitrogen uptake of 62.4 kg ha-1, phosphorous uptake of 12.1 kg ha-1 and potassium uptake of 45.0 kg ha-1 was recorded with the treatment combination of M1S4 (direct line sowing with 60 cm × 60 cm) and which was statistically comparable with that of M1S3 (direct line sowing with 45 cm × 45 cm) crop geometry. The higher uptake in grain and straw was due to increased growth parameters like plant height, number of leaves plant-1, number of tillers hill-1 dry matter production and yield parameters like number of productive tillers hill-1, number of finger hill, finger length, grain yield plant-1, ear head weight and 1000 grain weight in widely spaced plants which was due to favorable environment and less competition among plants provided by wider spacing helped the plants to take up more nutrients. Ram et al. (2014); Kumar (2015) also reported the similar findings.\r\nD. Economics\r\nSignificantly higher gross returns (` 107614 ha-1), net returns (` 53749 ha-1) and B-C ratio (2.46) was recorded with M3S3 (transplanting of 25 days old seedlings in ‘guni’ method with 45 cm × 45 cm crop geometry) than other combinations but statistically at par with that of M3S4 (transplanting of 25 days old seedlings in ‘guni’ method with 60 cm × 60 cm crop geometry) treatment combination (Table 4). The treatment combination viz; M3S2 (transplanting of 25 days old seedlings in ‘guni’ method with 30 cm × 30 cm) and M3S4 (transplanting of 25 days old seedlings in ‘guni’ method with 60 cm × 60 cm) performed statistically at par to each other however both of them are significantly superior over M3S1 (direct line sowing with 30 cm × 10 cm). On the other hand, the significantly lowest monetary returns were recorded with the M1S4 combination (direct line sowing with 60 cm × 60 cm) and which was statistically comparable with that of M1S3 (direct line sowing with 45 cm × 45 cm) crop geometry. \r\n The higher returns observed in ‘guni’ method of establishment could be due to higher grain and straw yields obtained in this treatment. Such results were also documented by Basavaraj and Rao (1997); Shivakumar (1999). Kumar et al. (2019) also recorded higher B-C ratio in finger millet in System of finger millet Intensification compared to farmers practice.\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\nE. Chemical properties of the soil after crop harvest\r\nThe data pertaining to soil pH, electrical conductivity (dS m-1), organic carbon (%), available nitrogen (kg ha-1), available phosphorus (kg ha-1) and available potassium (kg ha-1) after harvest of finger millet as influenced by establishment method and crop geometry is presented in Table 5. \r\nThe establishment methods and different crop geometries in finger millet had no influence on soil pH, electrical conductivity, organic carbon and available potassium recorded after harvest of the crop. On the other hand, there was a noticeable difference in available nitrogen and phosphorus in the soil. The available nitrogen recorded was significantly higher (173.1 kg ha-1) when finger millet was grown with direct line sowing method and lowest (169.6 kg ha-1) was recorded when 25 days old seedlings were grown under guni method of planting. Similar results were also observed with available phosphorus and available potassium with respect to method of sowing. Such similar findings were also reported by Prakasha (2015) in finger millet western dry zone of Karnataka. \r\nThe lower soil available nutrient status after harvest of crop in ‘guni’ method was mainly due to higher uptake of nutrients from soil because of higher grain and straw yield. Whereas, higher soil available nutrients in wider spacing (60 cm × 60 cm) was due to lower uptake of nutrients because of realization lower grain and straw yield of finger millet. \r\n','Shashikala Padesur, Padmaja Bhimireddy, Syed Ahmed Hussain and Pavan Chandra Reddy K. (2022). ‘Guni’ Method (System of Ragi Intensification) for Enhanced Yield, Nutrient Uptake and Economics in Finger Millet. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 14(2): 320-326.'),(4852,'125','Seed Quality Deterioration of Tomato during Storage: Effect of Storing Containers and condition','Jui Ray and Sanjoy Kumar Bordolui*','58 Seed Quality Deterioration of Tomato during Storage Effect of Storing Containers and Condition Sanjoy Kumar Bordolui.pdf','',1,'Tomato is the highly nutritious vegetables crop. By consumption of crops, it will provide the nutritional security of people. It has been assertively and emphatically shown that 15-20% increased yield could be achieved by the use of good quality seeds alone. Good quality seed is one of the most important requirements for production and supply to achieve higher production and productivity in any crop. The seed quality is depended on various factors Viz. genetic, edaphic, environmental, biotic, etc. Complex conditions evoking the most favourable interactions between the genetic makeup of the seed and the environment, under which it is produced, harvested, processed, and stored, require maintaining good quality seed. During storage, seeds undergo deterioration resulting in a decline in germination and vigour. With this view, the present investigation has been undertaken to determine seed quality of tomato after harvesting in 2020-2021 at Seed Testing Laboratory, Department of Seed Science and Technology, BCKV, Mohanpur, Nadia, West Bengal, India. There were no effect of different containers and condition at immediately after harvest the seed. Refrigerated condition was the best among the other containers and condition. Because, the average value over duration of germination percentage; vigour index; soluble protein content of seeds; total carbohydrate content recorded highest and lowest value of electrical conductivity was recorded in refrigerated condition. The average germination potential was gradually decrease during different period of storage i.e., 84.11%, 78.35%, 74.12% and 66.85% in 2nd month, 4th month, 6th month and 8th months respectively. Similar trends were recorded in vigour index also. The minimum germination percentage was maintained upto 8th month of storage in refrigerated condition.','Tomato, seed deterioration, containers and condition, germination, vigour, seed storage','Just after harvest the seeds, there were no effect of different containers and condition. Among the containers and condition, refrigerated condition was the best as germination percentage, vigour index, soluble protein content of seeds, total carbohydrate content recorded highest and lowest value of electrical conductivity was recorded in refrigerated condition when average over durations. The average germination potential was constantly reduction due to storage i.e., 84.11%, 78.35%, 74.12% and 66.85% in second month, fourth month, sixth month and eighth months respectively. Similar trends were recorded in vigour index also.','INTRODUCTION\r\nTomato (Solanum lycopersicum L.) is a member of Solanaceae family which is well known for a number of medicinal and nutritional properties. Botanically, this fruit is known as berry (Salunkhe et al., 2005). Thousands of varieties of tomatoes have been reported in terms of shapes, colours and size. Tomato seeds have a high commercial value, and the loss of seed physiological quality over time is demonstrated by their low storability unless hermetic conditions are used (Tigist et al., 2012). To achieve nutritional security of people, consumption of crops like tomato may be increased (Sivakumar, 2021). Laxman et al. (2021) reported that in hybridization program for tomato crop may useful in the conservation and also exchange of the germplasm. Mohammadi et al. (2019) showed that control had the lowest level of acidity compared to the treatments indicating that the essential oils of cinnamon, fennel, and clove prevented the transformation of organic acids in date fruit to other materials including sugars during storage. Seed persistence is vital in temporally unpredictable environments, because after unfavourable years a population may become extinct, whereas a persistent seed bank may buffer such years (Ray and Bordolui, 2021). Seeds undergo deterioration at various levels during storage resulting in decline in a vigour and viability (Bordolui et al., 2015). In next generation, the success of seeds depends on an important post-harvest operation, known as seed storage. The main purpose of seed storage is to preserve economic crops from one season to another. Storage temperature and moisture content are the most important factors affecting seed longevity, with seed moisture content usually being more influential than temperature. Several environmental factors have been reported to affect seed viability during storage. Some of the factors that affect the longevity of seeds in storage could be genotype of crop, initial seed quality, storage containers and conditions. Several studies have indicated that storage containers affected the seed quality in terms of germination and viability over a period of time (Bortey et al., 2016; Moharana et al., 2017; Bordolui et al., 2021). However, it has been reported that the intensity of decreasing the quality of stored seed under different storage techniques differ among plant species and within plant species as well as among varieties (Al-Yahya, 2001; Kumari et al., 2017). Packaging materials play a major role in extending the storability of the seeds. The moisture proof containers will inhibit the exchange of the moisture between the seeds and the surrounding atmosphere resulted in enhanced storability. Packaging container and storage duration significantly affected viability and seedling vigour (Rao et al., 2006; Chakraborty et al., 2020). Seeds must be properly stored in order to maintain an acceptable level of germination and vigour until the time of planting. There is an increasing awareness of saving both time and expense that are realized by using suitable moisture proof containers for storing valuable breeding stocks. The objective of this study was to identify tomato genotype towards different storage containers and conditions.\r\nMATERIALS AND METHODS\r\nThe laboratory experiment was carried out in seed testing laboratory, Department of Seed science and Technology, Bidhan Chandra Krishi Viswavidyalaya, Mohanpur, Nadia, West Bengal, India, during 2020-21 following Complete Randomized Design with three replications. The seed material for the present investigation is comprised of one tomato genotype viz., BCT-25. Immediately after harvesting, seeds were properly sun-dried to its safe moisture content of tomato were collected from control plot of the genotype for each replication and were stored in different packaging materials and condition, such as Cloth bag (T1), Aluminium foil pouch (T2), Brown paper packet (T3), Earthen pot (T4), 700 gauge Polythene packet (T5) leaving no air or minimum air space and within Refrigerator (T6) at around 4 0C. Different physiological seed quality parameters such as root length (cm), shoot length (cm), seedling length (cm), germination percentage, vigour index, fresh weight (g) of ten seedlings and dry weight (g) of ten seedlings as well as biochemical parameters such as electrical conductivity (ds m-1), soluble protein content (mg g-1) and total carbohydrate content (mg g-1) of differently stored seeds were recorded at every two months interval up to eight months of storage. \r\nRESULTS AND DISCUSSION\r\nSeedling parameters, germination percentage, vigour index and biochemical properties of tomato seed at just after harvest: At initial stage, i.e., immediately after harvesting, seeds were kept for germination test, recording seedling parameters, vigour index as well as biochemical properties of seeds were analysed. Initially, root and shoot length of seedling was recorded as 9.76 cm and 4.22 cm respectively, which indicated the seedling length of 13.98 cm (Table 1). Seed germination percentage was noted to be 92.87 and vigour index was 1298.32. Fresh weight and dry weight of seedlings were 0.160 g and 0.017 g respectively. Just after harvesting, electrical conductivity of seed leachates were 0.113dS m-1 g-1. Soluble protein content and total carbohydrate content of seed were noted to be 2.829 mg g-1 and 2.872 mg g-1. \r\nRoot length (cm): During different storage durations root length of seedling was varied significantly when average was made over storage containers and condition considered as treatment (T); seedling root length at fourteen days after setting was found maximum in D1 (9.18 cm) and with the advancement in storage duration it automatically declined, though D2, D3 and D4 were statistically at per with each other (Table 2). Significant variation was displayed by the treatments, when average was taken over the storage durations (D); it was noted longest in T6 (9.43 cm), followed by T5, T2, T3, although T6, T5, T2 and T2, T3 \r\nwere statistically non-significant and shortest root length was found in T1 (7.84 cm). While considering the combined effect of storage durations and storage treatments, it showed non-significant variation for the trait; highest value of root length was observed in D1T6 (9.70 cm) and lowest value was obtained in D4T1 (7.25 cm). As the time of storage progresses, a declining trend in root length was noticed for each treatment. Similar type of finding was noted by Geetanjali et al. (2019) in onion seeds with respect to the production of higher seedling root length after stored in commercial storage condition at 5-7 °C and 65% relative humidity.\r\n \r\nShoot length (cm): Significant variation was observed for seedling shoot length, when average was taken over treatments; maximum shoot length was recorded in D1 (3.94 cm) and it was minimum in D4 (3.61 cm) (Table 3); a trend in decrease in shoot length was noted over the month of storage. Storage treatments showed significant variation over durations, where longest shoot was produced by T6 (3.92 cm), followed by T2, T3, T5, T4, though T6, T2 and T3, T5, T4 noted statistically similar values for the seedling parameter, while T1 produced shortest shoot (3.52 cm). Significant variation was observed for interaction effect of storage duration and storage treatment similar to seedling root length; D1T2 exhibited longest shoot length (4.18 cm), though D1T2 and D1T5 were statistically non-significant, whereas, D4T1 produced shortest shoot (3.38 cm), although D4T1, D4T5, D3T1 were statistically at per with each other and length of shoot was reduced for each storage treatment with the advancement of storage duration. Venge et al. (2016) in soybean and Patel et al. (2017) in onion showed similar type of findings with respect to seedling root and shoot length during storage.\r\nSeedling length (cm): When average was measured over the treatments, the mean value of storage durations varied significantly for seedling length; it was recorded to be maximum at D1 with 13.13 cm and decreased as the storage duration increased, indicating the minimum length of 12.23 cm at D4, though D2, D3 and D3, D4 were statistically similar (Table 4). Average performance of storage treatments showed significant variation; length of seedling was noted to be longest for T6 (13.36 cm), followed by T5, T2, T3, though T6, T5, T2 were statistically non-significant for the trait and it was shortest for T1 (11.36 cm). Similar to the root length, seedling length was non-significantly influenced by storage treatments with response to durations; where, longest seedling was produced by D1T6 and shortest by D4T1 and a similar trend of decreasing the seedling length was observed for each treatment as there was progress in storage period. This was in conformity with Venge et al. (2016) in soybean and Geetanjali et al. (2019) in onion seeds with respect to higher root and shoot length of seedlings.\r\nGermination percentage: Significant influence of storage period could be noticed on germination potential of the genotype, when average was made over the treatments. Consistent reduction in average germination potential, i.e., D1 (84.11%), D2 (78.35%), D3 (74.12%) and D4 (66.85%), could be revealed through (Table 5) and it attained the lower magnitude than the prescribed value under MSCS at eight months after storage (D4). Kartoori and Patil (2018) noted similar trend of decreasing germination percentage in onion seeds as the storage duration increased. While considering the average performance of the storage treatments, variation in the germination potential was found to be significant. T6 (78.39%) exerted significantly highest influence average over durations in comparison to that of other storage conditions and it was followed by T5, T2, T3, T4 and T1. While analysis was made for influence of storage durations on different storage conditions, it showed significant variation for germination potential and almost similar trend could be noticed as could be revealed for average influence of the storage conditions and the germination percentage fell below the minimum standard prescribed by MSCS at eight months after storage irrespective of the storage conditions; highest germination percentage was recorded in D1T6 (86.92) and lowest in D4T1 (63.55). The result is in conformity with Ray and Bordolui (2020) in marigold, where it was observed that marigold seeds kept in refrigerator recorded higher germination percentage at the end of storage period. Considering the prescribed germination percentage under MSCS for Tomato vis-à-vis the experimental findings recorded here in for this important parameter, recommendation can be made for safe storage till six months of storage under the storage conditions included in the present investigation.Vigour index: Storage duration varied significantly for vigour index, when average was made over the storage treatments; highest magnitude of vigour was calculated at D1 (1105.13) and over the period it decreased. Significant variation was noted among the storage treatments; maximum vigourous seedlings were determined for T6 (1048.56), followed by T5, T2, T3, T4 and T1 (Table 6). Influence of storage duration on storage treatments noted significant variation for vigour index; vigour was reduced for each treatment with the advancement in storage duration, where it was recorded highest for D1T6 (1190.56) and lowest for D4T1 (675.78). Basavegowda et al. (2013) recorded highest vigour index in chickpea seeds stored under commercial storage at 5-7 °C and 65% relative humidity. Ray and Bordolui (2020) recommended seed storage within refrigerator packed in polythene packet for marigold genotypes to maintain higher quality of seeds with respect to germination potential and vigour index. The reason behind maintaining higher vigour in cold storage condition as compared to other storage containers is due to reduced rate of respiration and metabolic changes occurred in seeds as reported by Das et al. (1998) in Rajmah seeds.\r\nFresh weight (g): Fresh weight of ten seedlings was recorded ant it was declined at a minute rate as the period of storage progressed, though storage durations showed non-significant variation for the trait; maximum weight of 0.139 g was recorded in D1, while it was minimum in D4 (0.131 g) (Table 7). When average was made over duration, it was observed significant variation by the storage treatments for the parameter; highest fresh weight was noted for T6 (0.154 g), followed by T5, T2, T3, though non-significant difference could be noticed between the treatments and it was lowest for T1 (0.116 g). Similar type of observation was reported by Kandil et al. (2013) in soybean. Non-significant variation was indicated by the combined effect of storage treatments and durations for fresh weight of seedlings.\r\nDry weight (g): Storage duration varied significantly for the trait, when average was taken over the treatments, though non-significant difference could be noticed among the durations; D1, D2, D3 indicated same magnitude of 0.015 g dry weight and D4 recorded 0.014 g dry weight (Table 8). Maximum dry weight of 0.016 g was observed by T5 and T6 and minimum by T1 and T4 (0.013 g), when average was made over durations and it indicated significant variation for the character, though T1, T4, T3 as well as T2, T5, T6 were found to be statistically similar. The result is in agreement with Demir et al. (2016) in lettuce and Kavitha et al. (2017) in sesame. While analysing the effect of storage period on storage treatments, it revealed non-significant variation for dry weight of seedlings.\r\nElectrical conductivity (dS m-1 g-1): Electrical conductivity of seed leachates is negatively correlated with the vigour status of seedlings. As the duration of storage forwarded, electrical conductivity value also increased and significant variation was observed; it was determined highest for D4 (0.884 dS m-1 g-1) and lowest for D1 (0.237 dS m-1 g-1) (Table 9) and with the increase in storage duration, the rate of increase in electrical conductivity was also increased. Autade and Ghuge (2018) noted an increase in electrical conductivity of soybean seeds when period of storage progressed. Among the storage treatments, T1 showed maximum electrical conductivity (0.577 dS m-1 g-1) indicating highest amount of leachates released by the seeds, preceded by T4, T3 and T2, while minimum value of electrical conductivity was recorded for T6 (0.470 dS m-1 g-1), when average was taken over the storage durations and it noted significant variation. Singh and Dadlani (2003) reported that, minimum electrical conductivity might be due to moisture proof container, which results in prevention of fluctuation in seed moisture content and maintenance of high membrane integrity finally reduces lipid peroxidation and prevents release of free radical (Shelar et al., 2008). Storage treatment with response to storage period observed significant variation for the trait and it increased with the advancement in storage time, highest conductivity was recorded in D4T1 (0.962 dS m-1 g-1) and it was noted lowest in D1T6 (0.193 dS m-1 g-1). Fessel et al. (2006) in corn seeds noted least increase in electrical conductivity during storage while stored at a low temperature.\r\nSoluble protein content (mg g-1): Storage period showed significant variation for soluble protein content of seeds, when average was made over storage treatments, where maximum value was recorded at D1 (1.956 mg g-1) and minimum at D4 (1.296 mg g-1) and a gradual decrease in soluble protein content of seed over the duration of storage was noticed. Similarly the decrease in protein content with increase in storage period was observed by Braccini et al., (2000) and Alencar et al., (2011) in soybean. Declination in protein content with increase in storage period might be due to ageing and seed deterioration. Among treatments, T6 was found to be the best performing storage condition indicating highest soluble protein content of seed (1.740 mg g-1), followed by T5, T2, T3 and lowest of it was measured for T1 (1.411 mg g-1) (Table 10); storage treatments, average over storage durations, performed significantly for the character. The observation is in accordance with Hashmi et al. (2001). It has been reported by Singh et al. (2017); Orhevba and Atteh, (2018) that the rate of seed deterioration is strongly influenced by the type of container they are stored in. When storage duration was interacted with treatments, significant influence was observed for the trait, where highest soluble protein content of seed was noted in D1T6 (2.137 mg g-1) and lowest in D4T1 (1.164 mg g-1). Here also, a clear reduction in seed protein content was indicated for every storage treatment as the period of storage forwarded. Ebone et al. (2019) concluded that the first event in seed aging is the depression of antioxidant enzymes such as superoxide dismutase (SOD), catalase (CAT), ascorbate peroxidase (APX), and glutathione peroxidase (GPX). The depression of the antioxidant enzyme system was caused by the down-regulation of and reduction in scavenging antioxidant activity (Yin et al., 2014). Pukacka and Ratajczak (2007) observed an increased production of reactive oxygen species (ROS) during storage might be due to reduced antioxidant activity, which can degrade soluble protein and reduce enzyme activities and the content of late embryogenesis abundant proteins or small heat shock proteins. These proteins played a protective role in maintaining long storage life of dry seeds (Wolkers et al., 2001). \r\nTotal carbohydrate content (mg g-1): When average was measured over the treatments, the mean value of storage durations varied significantly for total carbohydrate content of seeds; it was recorded to be minimum at D1 with 2.749 mg g-1 and increased as the storage duration increased, indicating the maximum value of 3.334 mg g-1 at D4 (Table 11). But after two months of storage, a slight decrease in carbohydrate content was noted for all the storage containers except polythene packet and refrigerator; afterward it increased. Maldonado et al. (2015) noted similar trend in carbohydrate content of sugar apple seeds during storage. Average performance of storage treatments showed significant variation; total carbohydrate content was noted to be highest for T6 (3.197 mg g-1), followed by T5, T2, T3 and it was lowest for T1 (2.829 mg g-1). Zhang and Lu (2021) noted an increase in invertase activity, reducing sugar and sucrose content of potato tubers due to low temperature storage. Total carbohydrate content of seed was significantly influenced by storage treatments with response to durations; where, maximum carbohydrate content was recorded by D4T6 (3.443 mg g-1) and minimum by D1T1 (2.510 mg g-1) and a similar trend of increase in the parameter was observed for each treatment as there was progress in storage period. Sucrose and other forms of non-reducing sugars contribute to the structural stability of organelles, membranes, enzymes, and other macromolecules (Obendorf, 1997; Peterbauer and Richter, 2001). In particular, sucrose is effective at protecting cell membranes exposed to desiccation; it is one of the best sugars for vitrification process in plant cells (Bernal-Lugo and Leopold, 1998) because it protects the structure and function of phospholipids during cell drying (Leprince and Buitink, 2010).','Jui Ray and Sanjoy Kumar Bordolui (2022). Seed Quality Deterioration of Tomato during Storage: Effect of Storing Containers and Condition. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 14(2): 327-334.'),(4853,'125','Consortia of Bacillus subtilis and Purpuriocilium lilacinum have Nematicidal activity against Root Knot Nematode (Meloidogyne incognita) in Tomato','Kamaraj Sedhupathi, Zackaria John Kennedy*, Annaiyan Shanthi, Dananjeyan Balachandar and Sevugaperumal Nakkeeran','59 Consortia of Bacillus subtilis and Purpuriocilium lilacinum have Nematicidal activity Zackaria John Kennedy.pdf','',1,'In agricultural eco systems, root-knot nematodes in tomato (Solanum lycopersicum) have caused significant crop loss and production. In this scenario, using helpful microorganisms to successfully manage Meloidogyne spp and helps to maintaining agricultural sustainability and decreasing the risk of using chemical pesticides. In this case, the study of fungal–bacterial interactions is a new area of study that employs modern microbial ecology tools. The major constrains of the study is Bacteria have both good and negative effects on fungal performance (and vice versa). Our results shows that Purpuriocilium lilacinum and Bacillus subtilis have a positive interaction in vitro, showing that the complementary processes may increase overall nematode treatment efficacy. In a dual plate experiment, B. subtilis and P. lilacinum had the highest juvenile mortality of 95.90 and 95.66 percent, respectively, and the egg hatching inhibition of 92.54 and 95.00 percent. We inoculated tomato roots with the nematophagus fungus P. lilacinum and B. subtilis together this will significantly reduced the egg masses (70.31%) and galling index (1.33) of M. incognita. After biocontrol inoculation, we observed nematicidal VOC (volatile organic compounds) produced by tomato plants, It is strongly increase the plant\'s resistance against plant parasitic nematodes.','Compatibility, B. subtilis, P. lilacinum, M. incognita, Nematicidal activity, VOCs','We offer evidence of plant performance benefits (both additive and synergistic) stemming from interacting effects between microbial inoculants. We propose that the observed beneficial effects may be due to the complimentary modes of action of their components rather than to recognised ingredients. Further field trials are necessary to fully confirm their effectiveness and potential in the field. As a result, more research is needed to look into a variety of root knot nematode management options using bio inoculant consortiums.','INTRODUCTION \r\nRoot knot nematodes are considered severe biotic limitations that cause significant damage and production loss to the majority of crops around the world (Forghani and Hajihassani 2020). Their potential use as biocontrol agents with protective activity against economically important plant pathogens has been highlighted in recent decades, making them a promising alternative to chemical pesticides (Expósito et al., 2017). Plants infected with Meloidogyne spp. exhibit typical root galling symptoms. Some infected plants show signs of deficiency. Rhizospheric microorganism play ancritical role in the management of soil-borne diseases such as nematodes. Most commercial M. incognita management biocontrol solutions currently on the market contain live microorganisms that target nematodes, such as Bacillus subtilis and Purpuriocilium lilacinum, and are a viable alternative to chemical pesticides (Lamovsek et al., 2013). Fengycins, surfactin, and iturin are produced by Bacillus lipopeptides, which exhibit antagonistic activity against a wide spectrum of phytopathogens and can reduce egg hatching and kill M. incognita J2 in vitro \r\n(Kavitha et al., 2012).\r\nThe Bacillus alvei strain showed promise against nematode eggs and larvae, with hydrolytic enzymes hydrolyzing the worm eggs and larvae directly. The release of significant quantities of reducing sugars and lytic enzymes, such as proteases, chitinase, and chitosanase, is also linked to the effect of the strain or its metabolites on eggs and larvae (Abd-El-Khair et al., 2016). P. lilacinum is an egg parasitic Antibiotics such as leucinostatin and lilacin are produced by fungus, as are enzymes such as protease and chitinase. Protease has nematicidal activity, causes eggshell degradation, and prevents hatching. The fungus enters the egg and grows profusely inside and on top of it, completely impeding juvenile development. The infected eggs swell and buckle as a result of the infection. As the egg continues to penetrate, the vitelline layer splits into three bands and a large number of vacuoles; the lipid layer disappears at this point. The rapidly growing hyphae destroy the developing juvenile inside the egg. P. lilacinum has been shown to produce a number of secondary metabolic products, which help to reduce M. incognita infection (Khan et al., 2006). The goal of our study was to see if combining B. subtilis and P. lilacinum inoculation effectively reduced nematode infection, and we hypothesised that combining these beneficial microorganisms would benefit the crop more than individual applications. Biological control has resulted in a low effective strategy unless applied in combined inoculation (Moghaddam et al., 2015).\r\nMATERIALS AND METHODS \r\nMicrobial strains and culture collection. Bacillus subtilis (Talc based) obtained from Department of Plant Pathology and Purpuriocilicium lilacinum (Talc based) product procured from Department of Nematology TNAU, Coimbatore. These biocontrol agents was used in the greenhouse experiments.\r\nMaintenance of pure culture of root knot nematodes. RKN was cultured and maintained on tomato plants grown in sterilised garden soil in plastic pots (15 cm diameter × 12 cm depth) (sandy loam; pH 6.5). Tomato plants (PKM1) were artificially inoculated with M. incognita at a rate of two thousand nematodes per plant for this purpose. From the infected stock plants, second stage juveniles (J2) and egg masses were collected. Plants were carefully uprooted and thoroughly washed in running tap water before egg masses were collected. Hand-picked egg masses adhered to galls were collected in sterile water using forceps. They were surface sterilised for two minutes in 0.5 percent sodium hypochlorite, then washed three times with sterile water. Disinfected egg masses were allowed to hatch in sterile distilled water for two days before being collected in Petri plates using the Modified Bearmann Funnel Technique to collect J2 juveniles (Southey, 1986). (10 cm in diameter). After 48 hours of incubation at 28 + 20C, the extracted nematodes in the Petri plates were collected and used for further research. For our research purposes, the root knot nematodes pure culture is kept in the glass houses of the Department of Nematology, TNAU, and Coimbatore.\r\nCompatibility interaction of B. subtilis, and P. lilacinum. The in vitro compatibility of B. subtilis and P. lilacinum was determined using the dual culture technique. The experiments were carried out in Petri dishes with a diameter of 100mm and a volume of 20 ml of LB Medium. A 48-hour-old B. subtilis culture was streaked on one side of the plate, and a 2-week-old P. lilacinum fungal disc was placed on the other. Plates were incubated in the dark at 250°C for 8-15 days to determine compatibility. When colonies were on the verge of merging, compatibility was determined. The rate of radial growth was then compared to the rate of colony growth on the respective controls (Fig. 1).\r\nDual plate assay for inhibition of egg hatching of M. incognita. The dual plate assay was carried out using the method previously described (Fokkema, 1978). For egg hatching inhibition, LB agar medium was poured one side of the plate after solidification, and B. subtilis culture streak over the surface of LB and M. incognita single egg masses were deposited on the other side of the plate. Distilled water and M. incognita egg plates served as controls. Plates were inspected under a stereo zoom microscope after 24, 48, and 72 hours of intervals to count the inhibition of egg hatching. P. lilacinum mycelial plugs measuring 8 mm in diameter were placed on one side of the plate, while M. incognita eggs were placed on the opposite side (Fig. 2, 3) (Table 1).\r\nDual plate assay for juvenile (J2) mortality of M. incognita M. incognita juvenile (J2) mortality assay were performed in two compartment plates. In this assay LB agar plates were streaked with B. subtilis in one sides and another side freshly hatched 500 juveniles (J2) were added. In the same way P. lilacinum mycelial plug placed in one side of PDA (Potato dextrose agar) plates and another side with M. incognita juveniles (J2). Distilled water with juveniles act as control. After 24, 48, and 72 hours of incubation, the juvenile mortality rate was calculated. In a completely randomised design, three replications were kept for each treatment. The experiment was carried out in a laboratory setting. A stereo zoom microscope can be used to examine juvenile mortality (Fig. 3) (Table 1).\r\nBiocontrol of root-knot nematode on tomato in the glasshouse. Suppression of M. incognita determined under the greenhouse conditions. After 25 days, seedlings of tomato seeds (PKM 1 variety obtained from HC and RI, TNAU, Coimbatore) were transferred into 5 kg earthen pots with potting mixtures containing red soil, sand, and FYM in a 2:1:1 ratio. After 15 days of transplanting freshly hatched juveniles @ 1 J2 /g M. incognita was inoculated in soil around tomato plant roots by making three holes around the plant and covering with sterilised soil. Talc based formulation of effective bacterial (Bacillus subtilis TNAU (BS1)) and fungal (Purpureocillium lilacinum (TNAU PL01) antagonistic were applied at the rate of 10 g/pot were applied as per the treatment. The experiment consisted of 5 treatments with 3 replications in a completely randomized block design and the treatments include T1-Bacillus subtilis, T2-Purpureocillium lilacinum, T3-Bacillus subtilis, + Purpureocillium lilacinum, T4- Nematicidal check (carbofuran 1kg a.i. /ha), T5-Control. Pots were placed in green house conditions at the temperature of 35 ± 2°C (Fig. 4) (Table 2).\r\nObservations on growth parameters and nematode multiplication factors were recorded at end of 60 days. Cobb\'s decanting and sieving procedure (Cobb, 1918) and the Modified Baermann funnel technique were used to process the obtained soil and root samples (Schindler et al., 1961). Shoot and root length, as well as shoot and root weight, were measured 60 days after planting (Table 3) (Barker, 1985). \r\nIdentification of volatiles derived from host plant roots (GC/MS). After microbial consortia inoculation, three-week-old tomato plants were used to capture volatiles. Plants were then gently uprooted and their roots were washed under running tap water to remove any adhered soil particles. To improve detection of compounds identified in trace amounts by gas chromatography/mass spectrometric (GC/MS) analysis, the roots of the respective plants were cut at the base of the stem and subjected to volatile analyses under liquid nitrogen (Table 4) (Rasmann et al., 2005).\r\nStatistical analysis. Each experiment was examined independently. Duncan\'s Multiple Range-Test (DMRT) was used to compare treatment means for analysis (Gomez and Gomez 1984). IRRISTAT version 92-1 was used by the International Rice Research Institute Biometrics unit in the Philippines.\r\nRESULTS AND DISCUSSION \r\nIt is pivotal to investigate the potential of biological control agents in agriculture because they are highly effective, inexpensive, and have an excellent shelf life, making them a viable alternative to chemical applications for long-term disease management without pesticide residues in food.\r\nCompatibility interaction assay. In our study organisms have positive interaction in the compatibility test, with P. lilacinum mycelial growth overlapping on the bacterial (2.50 cm) in dual culture technique, indicating a positive connection. Furthermore, two-organism compatibility is an important method for biocontrol technology. The metabolites released by B. subtilis did not inhibit the growth of P. lilacinum when used together in the rhizosphere, according to the results of the dual culture plate assay on PDA agar plates (Fig. 1). The compatibility interaction was also demonstrated in ICAR: A Product – Containing Consortia Formulation of Bacillus Subtilis (NBAIM Accession No.: NAIMCC – 01211) And Paecilomyces lilacinus (NBAIM Accession No.: NAIMCC – 01211). (Purpureocillium lilacinum- IIHR PL-2, ITCC NO. 6887). Numerous bacteria and fungi, as well as microorganism combinations, collected from field tomato plants have been shown to be effective in controlling root knot nematodes and Fusarium wilt in tomato plants (Wanjohi et al., 2018). Similarly, Zaki & Mahmood (1993) proposed that in vitro compatibility between Bacillus and Purpuriocilium had a positive interaction among the cultures, which aids in the improvement of plant growth and yield. Many bacteria associated with plants (particularly root bacteria) release indole acetic acid (IAA), which works as a signal molecule in both fungus and plants and can also cause invasive development in Saccharomyces cerevisiae (Prusty et al., 2004). It has been widely accepted that plants benefit from the bacterial involvement in the mycorrhiza. Interactions of plants, bacteria, and mycorrhizal fungi take place in that portion of soil, where microbial processes are primarily influenced by the root, i.e. the ‘‘rhizosphere’’ (Hiltner, 1904).\r\nDual plate assay. In our result clearly shows that both the microorganisms produced nematicidial volatiles can inhibit the egg hatching of B. subtilis (92.54 %) and P. lilacinum ( 95.00%) and juvenile (J2) mortality at 95.90 % and 95.66% respectively (Table 1) (Fig. 2). According to Huang et al. (2010), various studies have found that bacterial culture filtrates have nematicidal activity in vitro. In a preliminary experiment, different concentrations of culture filtrate from strain Pseudomonas putida 1A00316 were added to 96- or 24-well tissue culture plates to test 98.77 percent nematicidal activity against M. incognita eggs or J2 juveniles. The bacteria studied have a wide range of nematicidal activity. There were 37 isolates of Bacillus simplex, 56 of Bacillus subtilis, 52 of Bacillus weihenstephanensis, and one each of Stenotrophomonas maltophilia, Microbacterium oxydans, Streptomyces lateritius, and Serratia marcescens. There were 49 isolates with high NA (80%), including 22 isolates with 100% NA (six B. simplex, seven B. subtilis, eight B. weihenstephanensis, and one B. subtilis) (Gu et al., 2007). Many different bacterial strains have been found to have nematicidal effects on Meloidogyne species, including Pseudomonas fluorescence (Khan et al. 2005).\r\nBiocontrol of root-knot nematode on tomato in the glasshouse. Beneficial microorganisms provide a favourable environment for bacterial motility that has been proposed as a criterion for active root colonisation (Bhattacharjee et al., 2012). In this present study inoculation of culture filtrates of B. subtilis and P. lilacinum giving a maximum reduction in soil nematode population up to 77.12% and 76.03% of B. subtilis and P. lilacinum respectively, whereas inoculation B. subtilis with P. lilacinum recorded critical reduction of M. incognita population (78.48%) (Table 3). It’s noted that shoot length (53.10%) and dry weight (6.33 %) of biocontrol applied tomato plants produced significant growth compared to control. According to El-Hadad et al. (2011), B. megaterium was the most effective strain in reducing M. incognita populations and improving tomato growth. Siddiqui and Shahid (2003) reported that the combination of seed treatment and seedling dip treatment of culture filtrate resulted in a significant reduction (58.79 percent) in root galling, followed by seeding treatment (42.88 percent) and seed treatment (40.60 percent) via culture filtrate, one at a time The reproductive factor was significantly lower (1.06) when seed treatment and seedling dip application of culture filtrate were combined than in the infected control (2.10). Bacillus spp. has been linked to a reduction in nematode invasion, according to several studies. The potential of the fungal biocontrol agent Paecilomyces lilacinus strain 251 (PL251) to control the root-knot nematode Meloidogyne incognita on tomato was investigated. When compared to the inoculated control, a pre-planting soil treatment reduced root galling by 66%, the number of egg masses by 74%, and the final nematode population in the roots by 71% in growth chamber experiments (Kiewnick and Sikora 2006). P. lilacinus\'s production of leucinotoxin, chitinases, proteases, and acetic acid has been linked to the infection process, which ultimately resulted in aborted embryonic development via a cascade of physiological disorders (Khan et al., 2006). According to Aminuzzaman et al. (2018), in vitro compatibility between Bacillus and Purpuriocilium demonstrated a positive interaction among the cultures and improved plant growth and yield.\r\nGC/MS analysis of root volatiles. Coupled GC/MS used for the analysis of tomato root volatiles. With these techniques, we identified 35 volatiles compounds 4-Pentenol 2-methyl-(15.79%) (E)-, Ethyl Acetate (6.94%), Benzene (6.90%)1,3-Pentadiene (4.36%) , Trimethylbicyclo (13.39%),was the most abundant volatiles. 4-Pentenol was released by plants in biotic /abiotic stress condition plants activated indirect plant defense signalling properties (Table 4). It may triggered pathogen and nematicidal activity (Zhou et al., 2022). As a result, microbial VOCs have been found to have a considerable antagonistic effect against a variety of plant nematodes, promoting development and inducing induced systemic resistance (ISR) in afflicted plants (Zhang et al., 2007). Infested tomatoes treated to pure volatiles (Pentenol and Pentadiene) had a much lower number of root galls, demonstrating that VOCs can diminish M. incognita infectivity and reproduction. Furthermore, these findings corroborate the theory that bacterial VOCs inhibit nematode migration toward roots, reducing their ability to produce severe root gall formation and egg production in tomato roots (Poveda et al., 2020). According to Barros et al. (2014) some alcohol found in the volatiles of brococoli have been demonstrated to be harmful to plant pathogens 4-Pentenol was found to be effective in immobilising and killing M. incognita J2 in water, but only at high concentrations (LC50=918ppm). However, several plant VOCs act as inhibitors of Meloidogyne spp. in their composition (Silva et al., 2018). Compounds such as dimethyl disulfide, benzaldehyde, undecanone from tomato roots also reported as nematicidal volatilome (Miguel et al., 2015). The volatile contents of Linum pubescens aerial blooming portions were extracted using hydro-distillation and analysed using GC and GC/MS, yielding 4.99 percent 1-hexanol as the main constituent. They had high antimicrobial activity against Gram-positive bacteria (Bacillus cereus ATCC11778, Enterococcus faecalis ATCC 29212, and Staphylococcus aureus ATCC 2923) and moderate activity against Gram-negative bacteria (Escherichia coli ATCC 25922, (Al-Qudah et al., 2013).','Kamaraj Sedhupathi, Zackaria John Kennedy, Annaiyan Shanthi, Dananjeyan Balachandar and Sevugaperumal Nakkeeran (2022). Consortia of Bacillus subtilis and Purpuriocilium lilacinum have Nematicidal Activity Against Root Knot Nematode (Meloidogyne incognita) in Tomato. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 14(2): 335-345.'),(4854,'125','Biological Management of Fusarium oxysporum f. sp. ciceris an incitant of chickpea wilt by consortium of Trichoderma asperellum and Pseudomonas fluorescens under glasshouse conditions','Ranjana Joshi*, Gururaj Sunkad, Amaresh Y.S. and Mallikarjun Kenganal','60 Biological management of Fusarium oxysporum f. sp. ciceris an incitant of chickpea wilt by consortium of Trichoderma asperellum and Pseudomonas fluorescens under glasshouse Ranjana Joshi.pdf','',1,'Chickpea wilt which is caused by the soil-borne pathogen Fusarium oxysporum f. sp. ciceris (Padwick) is the most deadly and prevalent disease in the world\'s chickpea growing regions. Trichoderma spp., a fungal bio-control agent and fluorescent pseudomonads, a bacterial bio control agent, have become popular in the biological management of plant diseases due to their adaptability and capacity to contain a large number of plant pathogens in a variety of target conditions. The study used efficient Trichoderma asperellum (TR-14) and Pseudomonas fluorescens (PF-19) combined with the suitable chemical cymaxanil + mancozeb in a glass house to decrease wilt disease. The results demonstrated that fungicide treatment, i.e., seed treatment with cymoxanil + mancozeb at 3 g/kg seed followed by soil drenching with cymoxanil + mancozeb at 3g/l, resulted in a considerably lower disease incidence of 10.67%. ','Fusarium wilt, Trichoderma asperellum, Pseudomonas fluorescens, cymoxanil + mancozeb, per cent disease incidence','Chickpea wilt caused by the soil-borne pathogen Fusarium oxysporum f. sp. ciceris (Padwick) is the most prevalent disease. Trichoderma spp. and fluorescent pseudomonads have become popular in the biological management of plant diseases due to their adaptability and capacity to contain a large number of plant pathogens in a variety of target conditions. The present study helps in understanding the role of Trichoderma asperellum and Pseudomonas fluorescens in combination for the management of soil borne pathogen Fusarium oxysporum f. sp. ciceris as compared to the chemical management.','INTRODUCTION\r\nChickpea (Cicer arietinum L.) is an annual legume crop that belongs to genus Cicer; the tribe Cicereae, the family Fabaceae and the subfamily Papilionaceae. It is one of the first legumes to be farmed, with 7500-year-old remains discovered in the Middle East. After the common bean, it is the world\'s second most significant pulse crop, and it is produced all over the world for protein (20-22%), fibre, minerals, and -carotene. It also fixes nitrogen in the atmosphere (40 kg N ha-1) and minimizes the requirement for nitrogen fertilizers. \r\nChickpea is susceptible to a variety of biotic and abiotic stressors found in various locations of the world. Diseases and insect pests cause major output losses in its cultivation, ranging from 50-100 percent in tropical areas to 5-10 percent in temperate areas (Van-Emden et al., 1988). Diseases are the most important biotic limitations to chickpea productivity, causing yield losses of up to 100%.\r\nWilt induced by an important soil borne pathogen Fusarium oxysporum f. sp. ciceris (Padwick) is regarded the most deadly and widespread disease among the fungus that harm chickpea (Haware, 1990). Wilt is a vascular disease that causes xylem browning or blackening due to melanin pigment. It is regarded the most deadly and widespread disease among the fungus that harm chickpea (Haware, 1990). Wilt is a vascular disease that causes xylem browning or blackening due to melanin pigment and disrupts water and nutrient transfer, causing the plant to wilt or die. Different chickpea cultivars wilt at different rates. Different chickpea cultivars exhibit wilting at different phases of growth, resulting in varying degrees of yield loss. Under extreme circumstances, the wilt infection can entirely destroy the crop, resulting in a 100% yield loss (Halila and Strange 1996; Navas-Cortes et al., 2000).\r\nA worldwide outcry against synthetic pesticides has sparked interest in safer plant disease management methods such as biological control, genetically engineered crops, and resistant cultivars. Depending on the target organisms, several kinds of organisms, such as viruses, bacteria, fungus, and nematodes, are put to work in the biological control of plant diseases. Trichoderma spp., a fungal biocontrol agent, and fluorescent Pseudomonads, a bacterial biocontrol agent, have grown popular due to their adaptability and capacity to contain a large number of plant pathogens in a variety of target conditions. Chemical pesticides have been recommended as an alternative to using these microbial antagonists against plant diseases in agricultural crops (Pal and McSpadden 2006).\r\nTrichoderma asperellum is a filamentous fungus that is an asexually reproducing ascomycete with a sexual teleomorph in the genus Hypocrea. It acts as an antagonist fungus for a variety of plant infections through a variety of ways. Pseudomonas fluorescens is a Gram-negative bacterium that belongs to the Phylum Proteobacteria, Class -proteobacteria, and family Pseudomonadaceae, which includes fluorescent Pseudomonads with antifungal properties. \r\nSeeds and seedlings are protected from soil-borne and seed-borne inoculums using a combination of fungicides and suitable bio-agents in an IDM strategy (Dubey and Patil 2001). The use of bio-agents in conjunction with fungicides would result in disease suppression comparable to that achieved with higher fungicide use (Monte, 2001). By combining antagonists with synthetic compounds, the risk of resistance is reduced and the amount of fungicide used is reduced.\r\nThe current study used efficient Trichoderma asperellum and Pseudomonas fluorescens, as well as the suitable chemical cymoxanil + mancozeb, to manage chickpea wilt disease in a pot experiment.\r\nMATERIAL AND METHODS\r\nA. Isolation and maintenance of the pathogen (Fusarium oxysporum f. sp. ciceris)\r\nChickpea plants with typical wilt symptoms were taken from a chickpea field. The adhering dirt particles and other debris from the diseased stem area were thoroughly washed away with flowing tap water. The infected stem section was chopped into small 1 cm pieces and surface sterilised by soaking for a minute in a 1% sodium hypochlorite solution. To remove any traces of sodium hypochlorite, the stem parts were rinsed three times in sterile distilled water. The sterilised parts were inoculated into Potato Dextrose Agar (PDA) medium and cultured for 5 to 7 days at 28±1 °C. With the help of the PDA slants, the hyphal points growing from the infected portions were transplanted with the assistance of a sterilized needle. The pathogen was purified using the hyphal tip approach (Rangaswami, 1972) and the culture tubes were stored at 4 °C in the refrigerator.\r\nB. Mass multiplication and inoculation of F. oxysporum f. sp. ciceris\r\nFor large replication of the pathogen, sorghum grains were employed. 200 g sorghum grains were soaked in a 2% sucrose solution for 16 hours before being placed in a 500 ml conical flask and autoclaved for 45 minutes at 121.6 °C. Under aseptic circumstances, each flask was seeded with a mycelial plug (1cm) from a pure culture of F. oxysporum f. sp. ciceris and cultured at 28±1 °C for 20 days. The flasks were shaken on alternate days to ensure that the pathogen grew uniformly. The resulting enormous culture was used to make sick pots. The pathogenicity test was conducted using a 20-day-old inoculum of F. oxysporum f. sp. ciceris grown on sorghum grains. An autoclave was used to sanitize the soil at 1.1 kg/cm2 (121.6 °C) pressure for 30 min, then mixed with a giant pathogen culture at 50 g/kg soil and placed in 2 kg earthen pots. The inoculum was not added to the control group.\r\nC. Mass multiplication of T. asperellum \r\nThe efficient T. asperellum (TR-14) isolated from chickpea rhizosphere was grown on potato dextrose broth (potato: 200 g; dextrose: 20 g; DW: 1000 ml) and the culture filtrate containing spore suspension was mixed with sterilised talc powder (1:2.5) and the talc based formulation was used at 5 g/kg for the study.\r\nD. Mass multiplication of P. fluorescens\r\nAfter four days of inoculation, the effective P. fluorescens (PF-19) isolated from chickpea rhizosphere was cultivated on King\'s B broth (peptone: 10 g; K2HPO4: 1.5 g; KH2PO4: 1.5 g; MgSO4: 1.5 g; glycerol: 10 ml; DW: 1000 ml) and the culture filtrate containing bacterial cells was mixed with sterilized talc powder (1:2.5) and the talc based formulation was used at 5 g/kg for the study.\r\nE. Management of wilt disease in pot experiment\r\nFor the management study, talc powder formulations of T. asperellum (TR-14) and P. fluorescens (PF-19) were blended in equal proportion (5 g) to make consortium, which was used for seed treatment and consortium multiplied on FYM for soil application in pot culture. The experiment was carried out at the Department of Plant Pathology, College of Agriculture, Raichur. The potting mixture (red soil: sand: decomposed FYM at 1:1:1 w/w/w) was produced and autoclaved for one hour at 121 °C and 15 lbs pressure for two days in this experiment. Later, the potting mixture was poured into the 2 kg capacity earthen pots. These pots were then made sick by inoculating them with a 20-day-old pathogen inoculum produced on sorghum grains. The therapy combinations listed below were tested.\r\nEach treatment was maintained by sowing five seeds of the susceptible Annigeri-1 genotype per pot with an untreated control. The experiment was carried out three times with a completely randomised design (CRD). Treatment combinations were created and administered to ill pots. At 30, 45, 60 and 90 days, observations on total number of plants and number of wilted plants were made. The percent disease incidence was then determined using the formula below.\r\n\"Disease incidence =\" \"Number of wilted plants\" /\"Total number of plants\" \"×100\" \r\nRESULTS AND DISCUSSION \r\nA. Management of wilt disease in pot experiment\r\nIn a pot culture experiment, the Trichoderma asperellum (TR-14) and Pseudomonas fluorescens (PF-19) were examined by constructing several treatment combinations in a management trial. The results showed that seed treatment with cymoxanil + mancozeb at 3 g/kg seed followed by soil drenching with cymoxanil + mancozeb at 3 g/l around the infected plant (T7) had a significantly lower disease incidence of 10.67%, while seed treatment with talc based consortium of Trichoderma asperellum + Pseudomonans fluorescens at 10 g/kg seed. The control group had the highest wilt incidence (69.67%) and the lowest yield (16.67 g). Seed treatment with a talc-based consortium of Trichoderma asperellum + Pseudomonans fluorescens at 10 g/kg seed resulted in a lower disease incidence (29.67%) when compared to soil application of an FYM-enriched formulation of Trichoderma asperellum + Pseudomonans fluorescens at 2.5 kg in 250 kg FYM (33.33%) with seed yields of 33.67 and 30.67 (Table 1 and Fig. 1).\r\nSeed treatment with cymoxanil + mancozeb at 3 g/kg seed followed by soil drenching with cymoxanil + mancozeb at 3 g/l (T7) showed the greatest reduction in wilt (84.69%) over control, followed by 80.62 percent in seed treatment with talc based consortium of Trichoderma asperellum + Pseudomonans fluorescens at 10 g/kg (T6) (Table 1).\r\nAccording to Srivastava et al. (2010), the combination of fluorescent Pseudomonas, Trichoderma and arbuscular mycorrhiza provided much better control than uninoculated therapy in pot culture, reducing disease incidence by 74%. In comparison to treatment with a single bio-agent, Singh et al. (2013) concluded that using a consortium of compatible bio-agents will improve plant development and biological control of phytopathogens. According to Dubey et al. (2015), combining T. harzianum and P. fluorescens with Mesorhizobium dramatically reduced the incidence of wilt. According to Mahmood et al. (2015), seed treatment with Trichoderma harzanium followed by chemical drenching was the most efficient, reducing disease by up to 93.75 percent.\r\n','Ranjana Joshi, Gururaj Sunkad, Amaresh Y.S. and Mallikarjun Kenganal (2022). Biological management of Fusarium oxysporum f. sp. ciceris an incitant of chickpea wilt by consortium of Trichoderma asperellum and Pseudomonas fluorescens under glasshouse conditions. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 14(2): 346-349.'),(4856,'125','Effect of Irrigation Schedule and Fertigation Level on Soil Microbial Population of Mandarin (Citrus reticulata Blanco.) Orchard cv. Nagpur Mandarin','Sandeep Kumar, Jitendra Singh and Priyanka Kumawat','61 Effect of Irrigation Schedule and Fertigation Level on Soil Microbial Population of Mandarin _Citrus reticulata Blanco._ Orchard cv. Nagpur Mandarin Sandeep Kumar.pdf','',1,'Scarcity of water is pervasive on earth across all plant grow ping realm. Water is the major constraint for horticulture production in Rajasthan as well as other parts of the country. At the time of peak summer, no drop of water remains available for crop production. Day by day ground water resources are getting deep due to excessive use of aquifer without much concern for its replenishment. During the peak summer no drop of water remains available for horticulture and agriculture in the region. There is a need of water saving technique. The field experiment was conducted deploying 10 treatments in RBD with four replications covering 160 plants in all during two successive years commencing from March, 2019 to February, 2020 and March, 2020 to February, 2021 at the Instructional Farm, Department of Fruit Science, College of Horticulture and Forestry, Jhalawar, Rajasthan. The experiment revealed that among various irrigation schedule treatments, application of treatment I1 (100% ETc) was found better in improvement of the soil microbial population in soil (Bacteria 18.17 × 106 CFU/g soil and Fungi 12.62 × 104 CFU/g soil). As regard to individual effect of fertigation, better influence on microbial population (Bacteria 19.33 × 106 CFU/g soil and Fungi 13.78 × 104 CFU/g soil) was found under treatment F3 (60% RDF). Among the interaction of irrigation schedule and fertigation levels, soil microbial population (Bacteria 20.75 × 106 CFU/g soil and Fungi 15.20 × 104 CFU/g soil at 0-15cm depth of soil) had significantly better improvement in treatment I1F3 (Irrigation Scheduling at 100 % ETc + Fertigation 60 % RDF). ','Irrigation schedule, Fertigation, Drip irrigation and Mandarin','The treatment I1 (100% ETc) was found better in improvement of microbial population in soil (Bacteria 18.17 × 106 CFU/g soil and Fungi 12.62 × 104 CFU/g soil at 0-15cm depth of soil). However, better influence on microbial population (Bacteria 19.33 × 106 CFU/g soil and Fungi 13.78 × 104 CFU/g soil at 0-15cm depth of soil) was found under treatment F3 (60% RDF).As regard to combination of irrigation schedule and fertigation levels treatments, maximum soil microbial population (Bacteria 20.75 × 106 and Fungi 15.20 × 104 at 0-15cm depth of soil) was observed in treatment I1F3 (Irrigation Scheduling at 100 % ETc + Fertigation 60 % RDF).','INTRODUCTION \r\nMandarin known as Citrus reticulata Blanco is an important fruit in genus citrus. It belongs to the family Rutaceae and sub-family Aurantioideae. The genus citrus includes 162 species and is extensively grown in the tropical and sub-tropical parts of the world (Tanaka, 1977). The majority of the species of citrus are originated in tropical and sub-tropical parts of South East Asia, mainly India and China and in the area among these two countries. The citrus species, mandarin (Citrus reticulata Blanco) originated in Indo-China to Southern China (Webber 1967; Davies and Albrigo 1994; Nadabi et al., 2018). \r\nIn Jhalawar, mandarin is cultivated under calcareous vertisols (black soil) prevailing in agro-ecology under humid sub-tropical climatic conditions. The Nagpur Mandarin successfully grows between an temperature of 12oC and 40oC. The tree has water requirement of about 800 to 1200 mm per annum under irrigation with optimum rainfall.\r\nScarcity of water is pervasive on earth across all plant grow ping realm. Water is the major constraint for horticulture production in Rajasthan as well as other parts of the country. At the time of peak summer, no drop of water remains available for crop production. Day by day ground water resources are getting deep due to excessive use of aquifer without much concern for its replenishment. During the peak summer no drop of water remains available for horticulture and agriculture in the region. There is a need of water saving technique. Application of proper dose of water through drip irrigation is expected to result in water saving and likely to hasten plant growth and development (Mellado et al., 2005; Hasan et al., 2007).\r\nImplementation of fertigation has gained popularity in recent years, mainly in case of large spaced high value crops including fruits. Fertigation is a technique of combined application of fertilizers along with irrigation water effecting saving of fertilizers and water and at the same time enhancing growth, yields and quality of crops and minimizing ground water pollution caused by leaching. Drip fertigation is well organized technology of application of water and fertilizer simultaneously, directly into active root zone at right time in right quantum which ultimately helps in better development of plants. Drip fertigation is beneficial as in this system nutrient use efficiency could be as high as 90 per cent which remains at 40 to 60 per cent in traditional methods (Solaimalai et al., 2005). Drip fertigation technology has been well developed, tested, fine-tuned and adapted in large scale field situation and under protected cultivation like poly houses, glass houses, shade net etc. Bandyopadhyay et al. (2019) observed that fertigation with no fertilizer doses and irrigation through drip irrigation enhanced soil microbial population in coconut orchard. Besides, the soil microbes can influence the permeability, water holding capacity and tilth of the soil, as has been observed in soils grown to tomato and cocoa in India (Balasubramanian, 2007; Govindan and Nair 2011).\r\nMATERIAL AND METHODS \r\nThe present work was conducted deploying 10 treatments in F-RBD with four replications covering 160 plants in all during two successive years commencing from March, 2019 to February, 2020 and March, 2020 to February, 2021 at the Instructional Farm, Department of Fruit Science, College of Horticulture and Forestry, Jhalawar, Rajasthan. Jhalawar district of Rajasthan is located at 23°4 to 24°52 North-Latitude and 75°29’ to 76°56’East-Longitude. It lies in South-Eastern part of Rajasthan and agro-climatically falls under zone-V (Humid South Eastern Plain). The district receives annual rainfall of about 954 mm. In the winter season temperature dips down up to 1 to 2.5 ºC and during summer season it reaches around 45-48 ºC. The texture of the soil of the experiment field was clay loam (Vertisol/Black soil). The soil was poor in organic carbon. The detailed physic-chemical composition of soil of experimental site is furnished as under:\r\nThere were three levels of irrigation i.e., 100 per cent ETc (I1), 80 per cent ETc (I2) and 60 per cent ETc (I3), three levels of fertigation, i.e., 100 per cent RDF (F1), 80 per cent RDF (F2) and 60 per cent RDF (F3) and one conventional method (Control: Irrigation at 100% ETc by surface irrigation and 100% RDF as soil application). In the course of investigation, irrigation water was applied every 3rd day during March, 2019 to February, 2021. During the rainy months (first week of July to first week of October) irrigation water was not applied. The fertigation schedule was decided based on standard recommended dose of fertilizer. The required dose of fertilizer for 1 year old plant of mandarin was taken of 90 g N, 90 g P and 90 g K and for two years plant of mandarins is 180 g N, 180 g P and 180 g K (Anon., 2011). The doses of fertilizers were supplemented through water soluble fertilizer NPK-18:18:18 and were supplied during March, July and October at active growth phases of plants during both years of experiment. Thus, at one time, of the total recommended dose of fertilizer (RDF), 1/3rddose was given. Further during each specified month, the 1/3rd dose calculated for that particular month was fed through equally distributed irrigation schedule during the specified month splitted further in three equal doses. Water soluble fertilizer as per schedule was dissolved and mixed in fertilizer tank. The mixture of fertilizer water was injected into the drip system through the fertilizer Venturiy. The water requirement was estimated by using following equation. Assume, pan evaporation reading is 10 mm and then volume of to be applied to plant was calculated as under:\r\nETc = ETo × Kc × A - Re\r\nWhere, ETc = Volume of water required in litre per day\r\nETo = Reference evapotranspiration\r\nEp = Pan evaporation which has been taken as 10 mm\r\nKp = Pan co-efficient 0.7 (Kumar et al., 2013) for class A pan evaporimeter.\r\nETo = Ep × Kp\r\n= 10 × 0.7 \r\n = 7 mm\r\nKc = Crop co-efficient which is 0.60 (Kc considering, Kc values to be 0.50 in month January, 0.55 in month February to March and November to December, 0.60 in month October and April to May, 0.70 in month of July and August, 0.65 in month June and September, (Kumar et al., 2013). \r\nA = Average canopy area, which is 0.8 m2 in the plants in experimental field.\r\nRe = Effective rainfall 0.00 mm\r\nETc = 7 × 0.6 \r\n = 4.2\r\nWR = 4.2 × 0.8\r\n = 3.36 litres per day\r\nLikewise, for everyday changing pan evaporation, volume of water (ETc) was calculated for the purpose of experiment.\r\nDuring plant growth period, irrigation was applied uniformly at 100 per cent ETc, 80 per cent ETc and 60 per cent ETc in particular treatments. Soil microbial population were recorded at the time of commencement and end of the experiment (March, 2019 to February, 2021). The population of bacterial and fungus in soil was determined by soil dilution and plate count method (Pramer and Schmidt, 1964).\r\nRESULT AND DISCUSSION \r\nThe pooled data regarding effect of irrigation schedule and fertigation levels on soil microbial population (CFU) are presented in Table 1 depicted in Fig. 3. The population influenced significantly by various irrigation schedule and fertigation levels at the end of experiment (March, 2019 to February, 2020 and March, 2020 to February, 2021). The treatment I1 (100% ETc) had maximum soil microbial population (Bacteria 18.17 × 106 and Fungi 12.62 × 104 at 0-15cm depth, Bacteria 17.75 × 106 and Fungi 11.62 × 104 at 15-30cm depth and Bacteria 17.15 x 106 and Fungi 9.62 × 104 at 30-45cm depth of soil) and minimum microbial count observed in treatment I3-60% ETc (Bacteria 15.75 × 106 and Fungi 10.20 × 104 at 0-15cm depth, Bacteria 15.34 × 106 and Fungi 9.20 × 104 at 15-30cm depth and Bacteria 14.74 × 106 and Fungi 7.20 × 104 at 30-45cm depth of soil). As regard to fertigation, minimum soil microbial population (Bacteria 14.42 × 106 and Fungi 8.87 × 104 at 0-15cm depth, Bacteria 14.00 × 106 and Fungi 7.87 × 104 at 15-30cm depth and Bacteria 13.40 × 106 and Fungi 5.87 × 104 at 30-45cm depth of soil) was registered in treatment F1 (100% RDF). The maximum increase in available soil microbial population (Bacteria 19.33 × 106 and Fungi 13.78 × 104 at 0-15cm depth, Bacteria 18.92 × 106 and Fungi 12.78 × 104 at 15-30cm depth and Bacteria 18.32 × 106 and Fungi 10.78 × 104 at 30-45cm depth of soil) was found under treatment F3 (60%RDF). As regard to combination of irrigation schedule and fertigation levels treatments, maximum soil microbial population (Bacteria 20.75 × 106 and Fungi 15.20 × 104 at 0-15cm depth, Bacteria 20.34 × 106 and Fungi 14.20 × 104 at 15-30cm depth and Bacteria 19.74 × 106 and Fungi 12.20 × 104 at 30-45cm depth of soil) was observed in treatment I1F3 (Irrigation Scheduling at 100 % ETc + Fertigation 60 % RDF), followed by treatment I2F3 (Irrigation Scheduling at 80 % ETc + Fertigation 60 % RDF) in which the values were (Bacteria 19.50 × 106 and Fungi 13.95 × 104 at 0-15cm depth, Bacteria 19.09 × 106 and Fungi 12.95 × 104 at 15-30cm depth and Bacteria 18.49 × 106 and Fungi 10.95 × 104 at 30-45cm depth of soil). \r\nThe minimum soil microbial population (Bacteria 13.00 × 106 and Fungi 7.45 × 104 at 0-15cm depth, Bacteria 12.58 × 106 and Fungi 6.45 × 104 at 15-30cm depth and Bacteria 11.98 × 106 and Fungi 4.45 × 104 at 30-45cm depth of soil) was observed in treatment I0F0(Control, Irrigation at 100 % ETc by surface irrigation and 100 % RDF as soil application) at the end of experiment (March, 2019 to February, 2021). Maximum microbial population of soil was noticed under the treatment I1F3 (Irrigation Scheduling at 100 % ETc + Fertigation 60 % RDF) while minimum under the I0F0 (Control, i.e. Irrigation at 100 % ETc by surface irrigation and 100 % RDF as soil application). The soil microbial population can impact the decomposition of the soil organic matter, ensuing in better availability of the essential nutrients. Higher microbial population of bacteria and fungi in soil with less amount of fertilizer may be due to the speedy decomposition of plant wastes simultaneously in the plant basin as a result of continuous supply of irrigation water through drip irrigation. Presumably, the decomposed plant residue in the plant basin was supportive for the growth microbial population (Hebbar et al. 2010; Shobana et al. 2012). These compounds maintain the growth of the microbial population and consequently in dense population with less amount of fertigation compared to high fertigation treatments. Besides, the soil microbial population can influence the absorption, WHC and tilth of the soil, as has been reported in soils grown to cocoa and tomato in India (Balasubramanian, 2007; Govindan and Nair, 2011). The soil microbial population had decreasing trend with increasing depth of soil. It may be due to more hardness, less infiltration and less organic matter in the lower layers of soil (Muhammad et al., 2012). Soil organic matter is considered critical component of soil fertility (Ibrahim et al., 2011; Sarwar et al., 2010), because it directly influences soil physical structure, water movement and root penetration and indirectly to soil microbial activity (Zabinski et al. 2002). Similar explanation for better soil parameters with application of irrigation and fertigation have been cited by Pramanik et al. (2020) in banana, Bandyopadhyay et al. (2019) in coconut and Balasubramanian, (2007).','Sandeep Kumar, Jitendra Singh and Priyanka Kumawat (2022). Effect of Irrigation Schedule and Fertigation Level on Soil Microbial Population of Mandarin (Citrus reticulata Blanco.) Orchard cv. Nagpur Mandarin. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 14(2): 350-354.'),(4857,'125','Prioritization of Measures useful for Climate Smart Agricultural Practices by the Farmers of Chhattisgarh Plains, India','Karishma Baidya*, M.A. Khan, and M.L. Sharma','62 Prioritization of Measures useful for Climate Smart Agricultural Practices by the Farmers of Chhattisgarh Plains, India Karishma Baidya.pdf','',1,'Climate change is widely recognized as one of the most challenging threats to agricultural productivity and people\'s livelihoods. To address the effects of climate change on agriculture is an extremely difficult task. Farmers are the mostly affected, as they must constantly adapt to climate change. There are a number of factors that influence the extent to which farmers in a particular location adapt climate smart agricultural practice. To find farmers\' preferences for climate smart agricultural practices, study were conducted on the plains of Chhattisgarh, according to their socio-economic characteristics and rainfall zones, for this study 240 respondents were selected randomly from selected three districts (Raipur, Dhamtari, and Mahasamund). To identify adaptation needs and farmers\' priorities for climate smart agricultural practices. Group discussions and structured questionnaire surveys were conducted. Local farmers preferred the following practices which were duration of variety, sowing method, soil conservation, irrigation management, integrated farming, etc. ','Climate smart agriculture, preference, climate change','This study reveals that farmers’ preferences for climate smart agricultural practices significantly differ based on the potential benefits and costs of technologies as informed to them. The study suggests that farmers may not be willing to invest in many climate smart agricultural practices even if there are foreseen benefits. Therefore, adaptation policies need to emphasize the crucial role of providing information about available climate smart agricultural practices and creating financial resources to enable farmers to adapt various climate smart agricultural practices that are relevant to their location.\r\nFarmers’ priorities for climate smart agricultural practices are linked to prevailing climatic conditions in a given place, socio-economic characteristics, and willingness to pay for accessible practices, according to this study.\r\nDepending on climate conditions and perceived hazards, farmers\' preferences for climate smart agricultural practices may fluctuate. As we all know, the implementation of climate smart agricultural practices is largely determined by the prioritization of farmers. As a result, the findings of this study can be used to develop clear guidelines for existing and new climate change adaptation policies in agricultural and related industries.\r\n','INTRODUCTION\r\nFarmers are dealing with climate-related shocks in agricultural productivity, which has brought the need for agricultural resilience to the center of agricultural policies around the world. Policymakers and development practitioners are increasingly interested in encouraging as many farmers as possible, mostly small-scale farmers, to adapt sustainable farming practices that will strengthen agriculture and food systems.\r\nClimate change is, to a large extent, the result of the increase in greenhouse gases (GHG) caused by human activity. Bush burning and deforestation are examples of agricultural operations that contribute to GHG emissions. Climate change has an impact on natural and social systems all across the world. Pachauri and Reisinger (2007) expressed that the world\'s atmosphere has consistently changed in light of changes in the cryosphere, hydrosphere, biosphere and other environmental and communicating factors. It was broadly acknowledged that human exercises are presently progressively inﬂuencing changes in the worldwide atmosphere. However, studies have indicated that underdeveloped countries, particularly India, are more sensitive to climate change\'s effects. The majority of small-scale farming in India is rain-fed, making it extremely vulnerable to climate change and fluctuation.\r\nMany strategies for minimizing the effects of climate change on agricultural production have been proposed. The food and agriculture organization (FAO) is actively striving to assist nations in addressing the problem of managing agriculture to alleviate hunger and poverty. In 2009, the FAO introduced the idea of climate smart agriculture (CSA) to highlight the connections between ensuring food security and combatting climate change through agricultural development, as well as the potential for enormous synergies. In general, the CSA options integrate traditional and innovative practices, technologies and services that are relevant for a particular location to adopt climate change and variability (CIAT, 2014). Climate-smart agriculture (CSA) methods that combine the benefits of increased agricultural production over time, the adaptation and development of resilient agricultural and food security systems, and the reduction of GHG emissions from agricultural activities have shown to be very promising. Neufeldt et al. (2013) stated that all agricultural practices that improve resource-use efficiency or productivity, reduce a community\'s exposure or vulnerability to climate change, reduce GHG emissions, and increase carbon sequestration are climate smart agriculture practices (CSAP). Adoption of improved management practices, for example, stabilizes and increases farm production even under adverse production conditions, as does the use of stress-tolerant and high-yielding seed varieties/breeds. Rohila et al. (2018) reveal that climate change is reducing agricultural productivity, production stability, and incomes in some way, as well as affecting areas with high levels of food insecurity. Developing climate smart agriculture is thus critical to meeting future food security and climate change goals. The task of informing policymakers has shifted to researchers. Policymakers must be aware of the elements that can impact farmers\' adoption of these practices in order to enact well-informed and practical initiatives that will help farmers embrace these practices successfully.\r\nSeveral types of research have been conducted to determine the elements that influence farmers\' adaptation of CSA techniques. According to Nyasimi et al. (2017), farmers, financial institutions and agro-consulting service providers should be forced to learn and share CSA practices, climate, and agro-consulting information. Farmers adaptive capacity will undoubtedly improve as a result of this, as will their knowledge and attitudes toward climate-smart agriculture. Aryal et al. (2018) investigated the elements that influence farmers\' adoption of CSA methods in India\'s Indo-Gangetic plains. Farmers\' characteristics including gender, education, social and economic capital, as well as farmers\' experience with climatic hazards and availability to extension services and training, were found to be important drivers of CSA adoption. CSA focuses on creating climate-resilient food production systems that lead to food and financial security in the face of ongoing climate change and variability (Vermeulen et al., 2012; Lipper et al., 2014).\r\nThe term \"CSA\" refers to a collection of farming practices that farmers use in various combinations. Managa and Mhlongo (2016) said that climate smart agriculture provides an evidence-based and location-specific framework that reduces complexity and defines precise implementation pathways, which is urgently needed. The CSA is a strategy that offers much-needed potential. Deressa et al. (2009) stated that farmers\' agro-ecological conditions, such as climate and soil, are likely to influence their climate change adaptability. Farmers in drier and hotter climates are more likely to respond to climate change than farmers in colder and wetter climates, according to evidence. Despite the uncertainty about future consequences and implications of climate change, Roberts et al. (2009) argue that efforts must be taken to lessen the susceptibility of natural and socioeconomic systems to climate change (which increases resilience).However, there is limited evidence about CSA acceptance, especially when it comes to small-scale farming.\r\nFarmers gain more when they use numerous techniques, because some of the strategies are complementary to one another, allowing them to take advantage of applicable synergies. As a result, implementing a variety of CSA practices aids in the development of a long-term agricultural system that is resistant to shocks caused by climate change and other variables that pose a threat to agricultural productivity (Teklewold et al., 2013). Goklany (2007) said that because of the limited resources of the governments in developing countries, farmers face challenges in identifying and prioritizing key adaptation strategies that can speed up sustainable development at the local level. When developing farm-level climate smart agricultural practices implementation plans, it is critical to utilize adaptation strategies that have been thoroughly examined and prioritized by local farmers in respect to prominent climatic threats in that locality (Khatri-Chhetri et al., (2017). Despite the importance of prioritization of climate smart agricultural technologies at farm level, existing climate change adaptation programmes lack such information for better adaptation planning. Evidences on farmers\' prioritization can support key stakeholders make informed decisions that are in line with government policies and institutional arrangements. Also find that the most preferred technologies by local farmers were crop insurance, weather-based crop agro-advisories, rainwater harvesting, site-specific integrated nutrient management, contingent crop planning and laser land leveling.\r\nThe purpose of this study is to know about farmers\' preferences for climate-smart agricultural practices in order to provide local climate change adaptation planning and information. The agricultural practices adapted by the farmers, which have been identified to fit into the profile of climate smart agricultural practices, were considered in the study to investigate the preference level of adaptation of climate smart agricultural practices among the sampled farmers.\r\nMETHODOLOGY\r\nThe present investigation was carried out in three randomly selected districts out of the total 15 districts of Chhattisgarh Plains namely Raipur, Dhamtari and Mahasamund. 12 villages were selected randomly for the selection of respondents, 4 villages from each district. From each selected village, 20 farmers were selected randomly, in this way, a total of 240 farmers (Total 12 × 20 = 240) were considered as respondents for the study. These selections were done by using a simple random sampling method for the purpose of the study.\r\nFarmers in the study area were surveyed and interviewed using a systematic questionnaire and interview schedule to acquire data from primary sources.\r\nDescriptive and inferential statistical tools were used to analyze data. It was analyzed using frequency and percentage, total weighted score and ranking based on the prioritization index.\r\nRESULT AND DISCUSSION \r\nPrioritization is the process of arranging items or activities in descending order of relative importance. It given the stated goal and vision, what matters most to the respondents now and in the future.\r\nTable 1 revealed that most of the respondents prioritize duration of varieties which occupied rank 1st with the highest prioritization index 83.33 per cent followed by integrated farming system occupied 2nd rank with the prioritization index 80.75 per cent and integrated pest management occupied 3rd rank with a prioritization index 79.50 per cent.\r\nMoreover, irrigation management ranked 4th with a prioritization index 78.41 per cent, sowing method ranked 5th with a prioritization index 71.16 per cent, and multiple resistance to major insect/disease ranked 6th with a prioritization index 69.83 per cent. The cropping system ranked 7th with a prioritization index 68.16 per cent, crop diversification ranked 8th with a prioritization index 65.91 per cent and post-harvest management ranked 9th with a prioritization index 57.33 per cent.\r\nIt was also shown that respondents place a lower priority on crop rotation, organic agriculture and soil conservation which ranked 10th, 11th and 12thwith a prioritization index 56.50 per cent and 54.08 per cent and 47.25 respectively. Even though there are anticipated benefits and it can also help to mitigate the negative consequences of climate change. Similar findings were reported by Khatri-Chhetri et al., (2017) ; Weldegebrial et al., (2019).\r\nHere, after ranking the selected practices according to their preference described farmers\' overall preferences for climate smart agricultural practices based on their climatic condition and perceived risk. The majority (69.16%) of the farmers belonged to medium level of prioritization and 19.17 per cent were low prioritization level of climate smart agricultural practices. While very few 11.67 per cent of the farmers belonged to high prioritization level. It may be because of a lack of knowledge about climate smart agricultural practices, risk bearing ability and financial problems.','Karishma Baidya, M.A. Khan, and M.L Sharma (2022). Prioritization of Measures useful for Climate Smart Agricultural Practices by the Farmers of Chhattisgarh Plains, India. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 14(2): 355-358.'),(4858,'125','Bioassay of Fungicides against Collar Rot Disease of Groundnut','B. Teja Bhushan*, M. Reddi Kumar, R. Sarada Jayalakshmi and A. Srividhya','63 Bioassay of Fungicides Against Collar Rot Disease of Groundnut B. TEJA BHUSHAN.pdf','',1,'Groundnut is an important oilseed crop in India. Groundnut crop faces challenges because of the many diseases. Among them collar rot caused by Aspergillus spp. is one of the severe disease which causes great economic yield losses. Collar rot is a seed-borne disease which reduce the germination by rotting of seeds. Both systemic and non-systemic fungicides can be used as seed treatment for effective management of disease. So, bioefficacy of five fungicides viz., mancozeb, carboxin + thiram, hexaconazole, tebuconazole and mancozeb + carbendazim were tested against A. niger, A. flavus and A. terreus at four varied concentrations by using poison food technique to find out the best fungicide and its concentration for managing the disease. Among all the fungicides tested, mancozeb + carbendazim proved to be more effective followed by carboxin + thiram, hexaconazole and mancozeb.','Collar rot, fungicides, groundnut, poison food technique, seed-borne','The use of chemicals has been believed to be a rapid and potential control measure against fungal diseases. Collar rot of groundnut caused by Aspergillus spp. is one of the severe disease that causes great economic losses. In the current study, the different fungicides have been tested against Aspergillus spp. Among all the fungicides tested against A. niger, A. flavus and A. terreus at four varied concentrations by using poison food technique, mancozeb + carbendazim proved to be more effective followed by carboxin + thiram, hexaconazole and mancozeb. Further, these effective fungicides can be used for seed treatment in combination with potential bioagents after compatibility studies as an integrated disease management practice.','INTRODUCTION\r\nGroundnut (Arachis hypogaea L.) belongs to leguminaceae family is an important food and oilseed crop originated from South America. It is cultivated in tropical and subtropical countries as a sole crop and intercrop extensively in both Kharif and Rabi seasons with an average rainfall requirement of 600 to 1200 mm. In the world, groundnut is cultivated in more than 90 countries (Virmani and Singh 1985). Nearly 30.19 M ha area in the world is dedicated to groundnut production whereas, in India it is 6.0 M ha with a production of 6.7 MMT (USDA, 2021). India holds first place in area and second place in the production of groundnut in the world. In Andhra Pradesh, it is cultivated in an area of 1.0 M ha with a production of 0.6 MT and 595 kg ha-1 productivity (Ministry of Agriculture and Farmers’ Welfare, 2016-17). This crop encounters more than 70 diseases during its production. Among them collar rot poses greater threat to crop with an estimated yield loss to be up to 70% (McDonald et al., 1985; Lukose et al., 2008). Collar rot is widespread in almost all groundnut growing states of India viz., Andhra Pradesh, Tamil Nadu, Gujarat, Punjab, Uttar Pradesh, Maharashtra, Karnataka, Rajasthan and Orissa. This disease appears at two stages viz., pre-emergence and post-emergence stages. Because of the infection to seed in the soil, the emerging hypocotyls will be rotted by sooty black mass of spores in the pre-emergence stage. On cotyledons circular light brown lesions will be seen initially and advances to hypocotyl or stem as water soaked lesions in the post-emergence stage. Rotting of succulent hypocotyls will lead to collapsing and death of seedlings. Being a seed borne disease, it leads to abortion, shrinking, discolouration, size reduction, physiological alternation, rotting and reducing the germination percentage of seeds. It is more prevalent in soils with low moisture content and high temperature, approximately 30ºC (Kishore et al., 2007). The pre-emergence stage will incur upto 15 per cent whereas the post-emergence stage accounts for upto 2 per cent losses (Rasheed et al., 2004). Collar rot can be managed by seed treatment with both non-systemic and systemic chemical fungicides like companion, bavistin, vitavax power, steam, raxil and kavach (Rathod et al., 2010; Rakholiya et al., 2012; Nandeesha et al., 2013; Srinivasan et al., 2015; Kumari et al., 2016; Rakesh et al., 2017). Carbendazim at 500 ppm and carboxin at 1000 ppm concentration completely inhibited the mycelial growth up to 100 per cent of test pathogen (Rohtas et al., 2016). Carbendazim + mancozebat 200 ppm inhibited 94.38% growth of the collar rot pathogen (Sekhon et al., 2019). Carbendazim + Mancozeb, Tebuconazole + Trifloxystrobin and Propiconazole showed complete inhibition at all the concentrations (250, 500, 750 & 1000 ppm) in poison food technique against collar rot pathogen (Saran et al., 2022). The present study focuses on the evaluation of effect of different fungicides against Aspergillus spp. under in vitro conditions and selecting the best chemical for the management of collar rot disease.\r\nMATERIALS AND METHODS\r\nThe bioassay of fungicides against test pathogen involved use of five different fungicides and virulent isolates of test pathogen i.e., A. niger, A. flavus and A. terreus following poisoned food technique in vitro (Nene and Thapliyal 1993). To perform the test, the amount of fungicides to be used is obtained using standard formulae and the same is mixed with PDA at lukewarm temperature. For each 9 cm Petriplates, 20 ml of poisoned PDA was added and allowed for solidification. Later, the solidified media in the Petriplates was inoculated with three day old test pathogen isolates as 5 mm culture discs aseptically in the center using cork borer and dissection needle. The control plates containing PDA without fungicides were inoculated with the test pathogen following the procedure mentioned as above. Three replicas of each fugicidal treatment and control were incubated for seven days at 28 ± 2˚C in the BOD incubator. Per cent growth inhibition was calculated in each treatment by comparison with control plates.\r\nThe per cent inhibition was measured by using the formula:\r\n \r\nWhere in,\r\nI = Per cent inhibition of mycelial growth.\r\nC = Colony diameter of pathogen in control (mm).\r\nT = Colony diameter of pathogen in treatment (mm).\r\nRESULTS AND DISCUSSION\r\nAntifungal activity of 5 chemicals was assayed in-vitro by poison food technique for Aspergillus spp. Results revealed that all the fungicides were capable of inhibiting growth of test fungus at recommended dosage as compared to control (Plates 1-5).\r\nEvaluation of effect of fungicides against A. niger in vitro. The data (Table 2 and Fig. 1) revealed that, among the different concentrations of mancozeb tested, maximum inhibition (100.00 %) was recorded at 2500 and 2000 ppm which were on par with each other and significantly differed with remaining concentrations and least was recorded at 700 ppm (25.60 %). However, carboxin + thiram exhibited complete inhibition at 2000, 1000, 1500 ppm and least was recorded at 500 ppm (90.56 %) which was significantly differed with all the concentrations. Whereas, hexaconazole showed cent per cent inhibition at 1500 and 2000 ppm which were significantly differed with remaining concentrations and lowest was recorded at 500 ppm (84.26 %) followed by at 1000 ppm (86.41 %). While tebuconazole at 1000 ppm recorded significantly highest inhibition (100.00 %) followed by 750 ppm (86.33 %) and 500 ppm (70.00 %). Lowest was recorded at 250 ppm (34.44 %). Whereas, mancozeb + carbendazim exhibited 100 per cent inhibition at all the concentrations tested i.e., 700, 1400, 2000, 2500 ppm.\r\n \r\nAmong the fungicides tested, mancozeb + carbendazim proved to be completely effective in inhibition of mycelial growth at all concentrations. Tebuconazole (at 1000 ppm), carboxin + thiram (at 1000 ppm), hexaconazole (at 1500 ppm), mancozeb (at 2000 ppm) showed cent per cent inhibition.\r\nEvaluation of effect of fungicides against A. flavus in vitro. From the data in Table 3 and Fig. 2 it is revealed the among the concentrations tested, mancozeb showed complete inhibition at 2500 and 2000 ppm which were on par with each other and significantly differed with remaining concentrations. The mycelial growth inhibition decreased with decreasing the concentrations of fungicide (33.59 to 27.98 %) from 1400 to 700 ppm. In case of carboxin + thiram, significantly maximum mycelial growth inhibition (100.00 %) was recorded at 2000 ppm followed by at 1500 ppm (90.91 %) and 1000 ppm (84.47 %). Least inhibition (77.83 %) was recorded at 500 ppm. While hexaconazole exhibited significantly highest mycelial growth inhibition (66.13 %) at 2000 ppm. The inhibition was decreased with decrease in concentration (61.78 % to 33.59 %) from 1500 to 500 ppm. Whereas, tebuconazole exhibits significantly highest inhibition at 1000 ppm (75.10 %) followed by 750 ppm (42.69 %) and 500 ppm (39.13 %). Lowest was recorded at 250 ppm (27.27 %). However, in case of mancozeb + carbendazim complete inhibition (100.00 %) was recorded at all the concentrations tested i.e., 700, 1400, 2000 and 2500 ppm.\r\nAmong the fungicides tested, mancozeb + carbendazim was proved to be more effective in inhibiting the mycelial growth of the A. flavus followed by mancozeband carboxin + thiram.\r\nEvaluation of effect of fungicides against A. terreus in vitro. It is evident from the Table 4 and Fig. 3 that, mancozeb at 2500 ppm showed 100 per cent inhibition of growth of pathogen followed by 2000 ppm (61.60 %) and 1400 ppm (56.03 %). The lowest was recorded at 700 ppm (47.43 %). In case of carboxin + thiram, cent per cent inhibition was recorded at 2000 ppm, whereas 1500 ppm and 1000 ppm recorded 78.87 per cent and 75 per cent respectively. But least per cent of inhibition was recorded at 500 ppm i.e., 68.93. However, hexaconazole recorded significantly maximum per cent inhibition (100.00 %) was recorded at 2000 ppm followed by at 1500 ppm (78.53 %) and 1000 ppm (66.13 %). The least inhibition percentage was recorded at 500 ppm with 31.67 %. While tebuconazole showed highest growth inhibition (61.17 %) at 1000 ppm. The per cent inhibition was reduced with reduction in concentration (30.17 to 2.60 %) from 750 to 250 ppm. But, mancozeb + carbendazim inhibited cent per cent growth of A. flavus at all concentrations tested i.e., 700, 1400, 2000, 2500 ppm. \r\nAmong all the tested fungicides, the results revealed that mancozeb + carbendazim found to be more effective against A. terreus followed by carboxin + thiram, hexaconazole and mancozeb. In all the treatments, as the concentrations of fungicide increases there was a parallel decrease in the growth of test pathogen.\r\nThe results were also in accordance with Andge et al. (2017) who studied the efficacy of five fungicides viz., carbendazim, thiram, carboxin + thiram, carbendazim + thiram and carbendazim + mancozeb for management of A. niger under in vitro conditions. They found that all fungicides showed 100 per cent inhibition of test fungus at all concentrations. Whereas, Rakesh et al. (2017) studied the bioefficacy of six fungicides viz., cabendazim, mancozeb, thiram, tebuconazole, vitavax + thiram and cabendazim + mancozeb on the mycelial growth of A. niger in vitro and found that carbendazim + mancozeb, vitavax + thiram and tebuconazole showed 100 per cent inhibition at recommended dosage and vitavax + thiram showed cent per cent inhibition at half recommended dosage were also corroborated to our study. While Rani et al. (2017) tested the bioefficacy of six fungicides viz., metalaxyl, thiram, mancozeb, mancozeb + carbendazimazoxystrobin and tebuconazole for control of A. niger under in vitro conditions and observed that tebuconazole showed maximum inhibition (100.00 %) at recommended and half recommended dosage and mancozeb showed minimum inhibition (43.24 %) at recommended dosage. Similar results were obtained by Vineela et al. (2018) who tested the in vitro efficacy of ten different chemicals against A. niger by inhibition zone technique and revealed that maximum antifungal activity was shown by thiophanate methyl (100.00 %) followed by tebuconazole (60.60 %), difenconazole (50.80 %), azoxystrobin (49.69 %). Saran et al. (2022) documented that Carbendazim + Mancozeb, Tebuconazole + Trifloxystrobin and Propiconazole showed 100 per cent mycelial growth inhibition at all the concentrations (250, 500, 750 & 1000 ppm) in poison food technique which was also corroborated to our research finding.\r\n \r\n','B. Teja Bhushan, M. Reddi Kumar, R. Sarada Jayalakshmi and A. Srividhya (2022). Bioassay of Fungicides against Collar Rot Disease of Groundnut. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 14(2): 359-365.'),(4859,'125','Determination of Bioactive Compounds in Agave amica L. cv Arka Prajwal','Lydia J.*, Kannan M., Aruna P., Jeyakumar P. , Vetrivelkaalai P. and Muralidharan B.','64 Determination of Bioactive Compounds in Agave amica L. cv Arka Prajwal Lydia J.pdf','',1,'A study was carried out to identify bioactive compounds in tuberose and the compounds are dl-Glyceraldehyde dimer, Formic acid, 2-propenyl ester, 4H-Pyran-4-one,2,3-dihydro,3,5-dihydroxy-6-methyl, Dodecane, 5, 8-diethyl-, Sucrose, 3-Deoxy-d-mannoic lactone, n-Hexadecanoic acid, Hexadecanoic acid, ethyl ester, 9,12-Octadecadienoic acid, ethyl ester, 9,12,15-Octadecadienoic acid (Z,Z,Z), Ethyl 9,12,15-octadecatrienoate, Hexanedioic acid, bis (2-ethylhexyl) ester. Among all the identified compounds Hexanedioic acid, bis (2-ethylhexyl) ester found to possess the highest retention time Ethyl 9,12,15-octadecatrienoate followed by 9,12,15-Octadecadienoic acid (Z,Z,Z), 9,12-Octadecadienoic acid, ethyl ester, Hexadecanoic acid, ethyl ester, n-Hexadecanoic acid, 3-Deoxy-d-mannoic lactone, sucrose, Dodecane, 4H-Pyran-4-one, 2,3-dihydro,3,5-dihydroxy-6-methyl, Formic acid, 2-propenyl ester, dl-Glyceraldehyde dimer. As a result of the intercropping, the effect of marigold in tuberose the compounds namely n-Hexadecanoic acid, 9,12,15-Octadecadienoic acid (Z,Z,Z), Hexanedioic acid, bis(2-ethyhexyl) esterbelonging to the palmitic acid group, carboxyl group, linoleic acid group were found with nematicidal property. The nematicidal property might be due to the influence of the marigold intercropped in between the sole crop tuberose. In future, the compounds possessing nematicidal property can be formulated and utilized as biocontrol against the infestation of the nematode prevailing in the roots of the commercially cultivated crop namely tuberose, Crossandra. ','GC-MS, Polianthes tuberosa, retention time, peak area, activity','In the undergone study, the compounds present in the tuberose has been taken to known the effect of the intercropping of marigold in tuberose and the impact on the nematode infestation. The treatments in which marigold the roots of marigold which has been imposed as the intercrop in the five treatments, whereas the intercropping with marigold was imposed treatment combinations possess nematicidal properties that plays a vital role in natural effect on the root knot nematode infestation. The GC-MS analysis is the basis for the understanding of the active principles present and the nature of the compounds can be detected. The identified compounds from Agave amica L. obtained from the ethanolic extract from the floral parts possess medicinal properties namely antioxidant, anticancer, antimicrobial activities. The GC-MS analysis revealed that presence of secondary metabolites especially the compounds namely n-Hexadecanoic acid, 9,12,15-Octadecadienoic acid (Z,Z,Z) with nematicidal activity which can be utilized in the industrial application. By the isolation of phytochemical constituents individually may help in fruitful results and can be used for the preparation of drugs in pharmacological research. In the future, individual isolation of phytochemical constituent and its biological activity can be subjected for research in forthcoming research projects.','INTRODUCTION \r\nTuberose (Agave amica L.) belonging to the family Asparagaceae, a native of Mexico is perennial in nature with white flowers and are used for decoration in wedding and also used as loose flower with demand in the markets. It is one of the major growing tropical ornamental bulbous flowering plants mainly cultivated for its long lasting flower spikes. It is popularly known as Rajanigandha or Nishigandha and is a native of Mexico. The flowers are most attractive and elegant in its appearance with sweet fragrance. It has been popular for the aromatic oils extracted from the fragrant white flower. It widely used in the perfumery industry. Tuberose flower possess anti-microbial, nematicidal, pesticidal, mosquito larvicidal and anti-inflammatory properties. The plants with the aid of volatile organic compounds (VOCs) has consistent communication with the organisms present in the environment. The communication allows the plant-organism interaction and thus ending up in the tuning of the growth, development, defence, propagation and the life cycle which helps in the achievement of fitness to its maximum. \r\nVolatiles, which are being produced from plants, belongs to the classes of chemicals namely terpenoids, benzenoids, phenylpropanoids and fatty acid-derivatives that includes volatiles of green leaves and also possess nitriles, (ald)oximes, sulphides belonging to minor classes (Bouwmeester et al., 2019). The scents from the floral parts helps in the high signal encoding specifically. The present study aimed at identification of the nature of the compounds present in the floral parts of tuberose responsible for their antioxidant activity. The GC-MS enables the bioactive compounds to separate and characterize easily. \r\nThe Gas Chromatography-Mass Spectrometry with Flame Ionization Detector and Thermal Desorber (GC-MS and GC-MS/TD) is widely used in the Identification and Quantification of root volatiles, plant metabolite, culture metabolite, plant volatiles, fatty acid profiling, soluble materials, profiling of essential oil, anti-microbial and anti-nematicidal VOCs, microbial VOCs (mVOCs), antimicrobial and anti-nematicidal meatbolites, VOC profile of fruits, vegetables, flowers, roots, leaves, metabolite profiling of pretreated Lignocellulosic biomass, identification of unknown VOC compounds namely solid, liquid and powder. The main aim of the study is the identification of the compounds present in tuberose. The major objective of the study was to elucidate the impact of intercropping with marigold in tuberose. The main aim was to provide an emerging perspective about the natural compounds and its effect on the nematode. \r\nMATERIALS AND METHODS \r\nThe field trial was conducted as an open field experiment at Botanical Garden, Field. No. 10 at Horticultural College and Research Institute, Coimbatore. The treatment combinations of tuberose intercropped with marigold of the study are 3 rows of tuberose as the sole crop with 1 marigold as intercrop (T1), 6 rows of tuberose as the sole crop with 1 marigold as intercrop (T2), 9 rows of tuberose as the sole crop with 1 marigold as intercrop (T3), 9 rows of tuberose as the sole crop with 1 marigold as intercrop (T4), 12 rows of tuberose as the sole crop with 1 marigold as intercrop (T5), 15 rows of tuberose without intercropping (T6). \r\nPreparation of the extract. Freshly excised petals of the tuberose flowers were weighed and the disruption of tissue was done by grinding with the solvent ethanol in a pre-chilled pestle and mortar. The sample was kept in a water bath for 45 minutes. The sample extracts were then centrifuged at 10,000 rpm for 10 minutes. The supernatant obtained was stored at 4°C and used for further experiments (Maiti et al., 2014). \r\nGC-MS analysis. The instrument used for the analysis is Perkin Elmer Clarus SQ8C system and the GC-MS was equipped by means of Elite-I fused with capillary column made up of silica with DB-5 MS Capillary Standard Non Polar Column of dimension 30 Mts, thickness of 0.25 mm carrier gas which flows constantly at the rate of 1 ml/minute and the volume was 1µL. \r\nFor the detection of compounds through GC-MS, ionization system of electron with the energy ionizing at the rate of 70eV was taken. Each component and its relative percentage was calculated with the average peak areas to that of the total areas. Turbomass is being used for the handling of mass spectra and chromatograms.\r\nIdentification of compounds \r\nThe GC-MS interpreted on mass spectrum was done with the aid of National Institute Standard Technology (NIST) database, which has more than 62,000. The spectrum of both the known and unknown compounds compared with the components in the NIST library. The detection of the compounds, its name, molecular weight and the structure was ascertained with the help of the test materials. The identification of compounds were done by comparing the spectrum of known and unknown compounds in the NIST library and available. \r\nHeat map clustering analysis and interpretation. The heat map clustering is the pictorial representation of hierarchical clusters in data matrices. The visualization of the data matrix represented with the aid a rectangular grid that corresponds to the rows and columns present and the furnished the cells through means of different colours. The hierarchical clustering is an algorithm that possess objects similar in nature and grouped as clusters. The endpoint is a set of clusters in which each cluster is distinct from the objects within the clusters. There is an existence of similarity within the clusters in a broader way. \r\nThe dendrograms along the sides represents the independent clustering of variables and the rows. The data values for each row and the column is shown in the heat map as they have the same range of values and are standardized. It may indicate any kind of pattern and provides the association between the rows and columns. On the other hand, the modification of clustering may be done in order to generate different patterns. The rectangular area of same colour is the main pattern of look of the dendrogram. The heat map generated through R software belongs to the type row dendrograms and the properties are furnished below in Table 1 and 2; Fig. 1 and 2. \r\nRow Dendrograms: As a result of clustering, the row dendrograms exhibit similarity between the row distance and the nodes.\r\nRESULTS AND DISCUSSION \r\nThe prevailing compounds present in the extract of ethanol obtained from the floral parts of Agave amica L. was identified as the result of analysis through GC-MS. The retention time (RT), molecular formula, molecular weight (MW), structural representation, area (%), the probability of the occurrence of the specific compounds, the significance into the plants were found and discussed in detail. The best separation method and technique for identification were Gas Chromatography and Mass Spectrometry and also one of the vital quantification method for volatile compounds, semi-volatile compounds (Grover and Patni 2013).\r\nThe ethanol extract of Agave amica L. with the aid of GC-MS exhibited twelve similar compounds in both the best treatments and control. The compounds identified are dl-Glyceraldehyde dimer, Formic acid,2-propenyl ester, 4H-Pyran-4-one,2,3-dihydro,3,5-dihydroxy-6-methyl, Dodecane, 5, 8-diethyl-, Sucrose, 3-Deoxy-d-mannoic lactone, n-Hexadecanoic acid, Hexadecanoic acid, ethyl ester, 9,12-Octadecadienoic acid, ethyl ester, 9,12,15-Octadecadienoic acid (Z,Z,Z), Ethyl 9,12,15-octadecatrienoate, Hexanedioic acid and bis (2-ethylhexyl) ester. Among all the identified compounds Hexanedioic acid, bis (2-ethylhexyl) ester found to possess the highest retention time (RT in minutes) as 29.77, followed by Ethyl 9,12,15-octadecatrienoate (26.33), 9,12,15-Octadecadienoic acid (Z,Z,Z) (25.70), 9,12-Octadecadienoic acid, ethyl ester (25.55), Hexadecanoic acid, ethyl ester (23.121), n-Hexadecanoic acid (22.24) while the lowest retention time was found in Formic acid, 2-propenyl ester (4.68) followed by dl-Glyceraldehyde dimer (3.40) respectively. The compounds identified has highest percentage namely 5-Hydroxymethylfurfuryl (19.82%), hexadecanoicacid, ethyl ester (Palmitic acid ester) with 6.23%, 2-Hydroxy-gamma-butyrolactone (12.16%) exhibited a wide range of potential bioactivities. The above phytochemicals are responsible antioxidant and antimicrobial activities which can be applied in pharmacological actions (Tapiero et al. (2002).\r\nThe compounds 9,12-Octadecadienoic acid, methyl ester are grouped under unsaturated fatty acids plays a vital role with growth of the cell, lowering the level of blood cholesterol and lubrication of the skin and improving its quality (Igwe and Okwa 2013; Okwa and Morah 2006).\r\nThe characterization and evaluation of bioactive compounds was formulated by Edy et al. (2017) in which the compounds namely with great abundance was registered by three compounds namely Neophytadine, followed by 9,12,15-octadecatrineoic acid-methyl ester and hexadecanoic acid exhibited the maximum retention time of 43.88%, 13.45% and 13.24% respectively.\r\n The maximum scavenging capacity was reported in Ficus septica, Cordiline sp., Celotia argantea, Melostoma polyanthum (Mu’nisa et al., 2018). Bindu and Udayan (2018) registered that there was prevailing compounds namely hexadecanoic acid, 9,12-Octadecanoic acid and the report was considered as the first report on the bioactive compounds identification extracted from the tubers of Polianthes tuberosa by means of methanol. The above study is in accordance with the present study. \r\nThe identification of six compounds possessing insectifuge property viz., hexadecanoic acid methyl ester, 9,12,15-octadecatrienoic acid (Z,Z,Z), 2,4-Di tert-butylphenol, tetradecanoic acid, squalene, octadecanoic acid was registered by the authors Karthikeyan et al. (2016); Gorane et al. (2018); Mahalakshmi and Thangapandian in 2019. \r\nThe compounds identified viz., dodecanoic acid, octadecanoic acid, methyl ester, 9,12-octadecanoic acid (Z,Z) and 2,4-Di-tert-butylphenol were found with antiviral property against human viral diseases was reported by Karthikeyan et al. (2016); Leila et al., (2020) and Ramya et al., (2020). The three compounds 9,12-octadecanoic acid, octadecanoic acid and squalene were reported in cotton in which anti-viral property was used against leaf curl (Abdullah et al., 2019).\r\nThe wild genus of Carica papaya possessed the following compoundsnamely 9,12, octadecanoic acid (Z,Z), octadecanoic acid, dodecanoic acid and squalene which has the activity against the attack of plant viral diseases. \r\nVijaykumar et al. (2021) reported that the GC-MS report revealed hexadecanoic acid, octadecanedioic acid were found in successful grafts of papaya thus helped in the plant promotion activity and was in accordance with the report given by Jishma et al. (2017). \r\nIn accordance to the significance of the above compounds in relevance to that of the plants in terms of the nematicidal, pesticidal, 5-alpha reductase inhibitory, anti-microbial activities. The other properties of these compounds include mosquito larvicide, anti-inflammatory, haemolytic activity, anticancer, hepatoprotective, Anti-arthritic, anti-asthama, diuretic, anti-arthritic, anti-asthama, diuretic, antihistaminic, antieczemic, insectifuge, antiproliferative. The retention of emitted VOC has proven to be suitable for the identification of a wide range of floral released compounds. The rate of major volatile emission was found to be high during night time. Isoprenoid and phenylpropanoid pathways consists of major volatile (9 pm and 3 am). Mono terpenoids and benzonoidsis predominant for floral development. Methyl esters is found in abundance in the late stages of floral maturation. \r\nThe compounds, peak area, probability, their significance, molecular weight, structure present in the extract is furnished below the Tables 1 and 2. \r\n','Lydia J., Kannan M., Aruna P., Jeyakumar P., Vetrivelkaalai P. and Muralidharan B. (2022). Determination of Bioactive Compounds in Agave amica L. cv Arka Prajwal. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 14(2): 366-372.'),(4860,'114','Studies on Mass Emergence and Reproductive Behaviour of Bayadara indica Selys, 1853 (Odonata: Insecta) around Yamuna River at Village Dakpathar, District Dehradun, Uttarakhand, India','Gaurav Sharma','3 Studies on Mass Emergence and Reproductive Behaviour of Bayadara indica Selys, 1853 _Odonata Insecta_ around Yamuna River at Village Dakpathar, District Dehradun, Uttarakhand, India Dr. Gaurav Sharma.pdf','',4,'The studies on mass emergence and reproductive behaviour of Bayadara indica Selys, 1853 (Odonata: Insecta) around Yamuna River at village Dakpathar, District Dehradun, Uttarakhand, India was recorded in the month of June-July during 2020-21. Due to mass emergence the stretch of 50-100 m is dominated by this species. In the reproductive behaviour the Courtship is well marked and male demonstrate a circular territory with a radius of about 5-10 meters and defended it from the intruding intra or some inter specific male by warning signals like wing vibration or abdomen raising. As female entered into the territory, the male starts following her and forms a tandem link, catching hold of her prothorax by his anal appendages. The before wheel tandem lasted for 10-22 minutes and during this period intramale sperm translocation from the gonopore to the vesicular spermalis took place 2-3 times of 40-55 seconds duration. The courtship wheel lasts for about 12-18 minutes and is performed of perching on vegetation near the bank of river. After wheel tandem lasted for 07-09 minutes. Oviposition is endophytic among the aquatic vegetation and lasts for 05-09 minutes. The female in tandem uses her ovipositor to deposit eggs in the submerged vegetation near the bank of river. During oviposition the male in tandem and after release of grip hovers around the female, to defend her from intruding intra or inter specific males. The duration of reproductive behaviour lasts for 34-62 minutes.','Bayadara indica, Mass emergence, Reproductive behaviour, Yamuna river, Dakpathar, Dehradun, India.','-','I. INTRODUCTION\r\nThe present day Odonata are among the largest living insects. They are amphibious hemi-matabolan insects having the aquatic egg and larval (nymph) stages, while the adults are terrestrial. The distribution of various groups and species of Odonata is highly variable. Some genera and species are widespread while others are highly local in their distribution. Some families are restricted to cool streams or rivers, others to ponds or still clear waters, and some to marshy places. The presence of dragonflies and damselflies may be taken as an indication of good ecosystem quality. \r\nThe Odonata exhibit two periods during their entire life: the pre-reproductive period and the reproductive period. The pre-reproductive period is the period in between emergence and reproduction. The main behaviour of a dragonfly during this period is: dispersal after emergence and feeding to help the teneral adults in becoming fully mature adults within a few days. Hence, the pre-reproductive period is also called maturation period. It does not mean that in the reproductive period, the dragonfly remains on fast. But together with the feeding behaviour the most spectacular phenomenon of this period are the different types of reproductive behaviour, which comprises territoriality, pre-copulatory tandem or before wheel tandem position, copulatory wheel formation, post copulatory tandem or after wheel tandem position and oviposition. The reproductive behaviour of Odonata comprises adult behaviour, which leads to successful mating and oviposition.\r\nThe Reproductive behaviour of odonates has been studied extensively by several workers including [1, 5, 8, 10, 11, 12, 18, 19, 30, 4, 6, 16, 20, 21 22, 29, 40, 41, 41, 3, 24, 37, 38, 2, 9, 13, 14, 23, 25, 26, 27, 28, 39, 31-36] etc. In the present study observations on mass emergence and on various aspects of the reproductive behaviour of Bayadara indica Selys, 1853 recorded around Yamuna River at village Dakpathar, District Dehradun, Uttarakhand, India.\r\nII. MATERIALS AND METHODS\r\nThe mass emergence and reproductive behaviour of Bayadara indica Selys, 1853 was studied four times around Yamuna River at village Dakpathar, District Dehradun, Uttarakhand, Indiahaving GPS coordinates 30.512610° N 77.833214°E in the month of June-July during 2020-21. Identification of adult individuals was carried out using identification keys provided by Fraser [17]. The wings of Adults of both sexes narrow, hyaline and male apices tipped with black, the hindwing not broader than forewing. Many pairs were observed in copulation. The Nikon Field binocular (30 × 25 DCF) and stop watch have been used for taking observations.\r\nIII. RESULTS AND DISCUSSION\r\nThe mass emergence and reproductive behaviour of Bayadara indica Selys, 1853 has been studied four times at study site on dated 27.06.2020, 04.07.2020, 19.06.2021 and 10.07.2021. The noticeable sexual dimorphism with a shining thorax black, marked with bright greenish-yellow stripes, wings apices black and abdomen black having mid-dorsal carina finely yellow from segment 1 to 8 in male, while females more robust than the male with shorter stouter abdomen, relatively longer wings without black apices made easy to keep a close watch on a species. Due to mass emergence the stretch of 50-100m is dominated by this species on the bank of river Yamuna. The observations on different activities, their duration and variabilities in the reproductive behaviour of Bayadara indica Selys, 1853 were recorded as below.\r\n(a) Territoriality: The males of Bayadara indica Selys, 1853 arrived at the rendezvous during 11:05 a.m. to 03:30 p.m., while the females appeared from the surrounding vegetation late during 11:40 a.m. to 03:00 p.m. The males after arrival perched on nearby vegetation on the banks of river Yamuna (Fig. 1). \r\n \r\nFig. 1. Territorial male.\r\nThe perch forms the centre of a circular territory with a radius of 05-10 meters, which was defended by the resident male from the intruding intra or some inter specific males. The resident male showed an aggressive abdomen raising display or by wing vibration against the conspecific and hetero specific male intruders. When disturbed it moves down stream with a strikingly flashing flight and soon coming back to same perch in the territory.\r\n(b) Before wheel tandem: As soon as the female arrived in the territory, the male started following her and after a short dual flight, got success to bind her in tandem link, catching hold her prothorax by its anal appendages. The pair in tandam flew to some nearby vegetation, where the male anchored the branch and the female hanged vertically. The pair in tandem changes perch 2-3 times to nearby vegetation. The before wheel tandem lasted for about 10-22 minutes (Fig. 2). This was the time when intramale sperm translocation, from the gonopore to the vesicula spermalis took place 2-3 times of 40-55 seconds duration at an interval of 1-2 minutes.\r\n \r\nFig. 2. Before wheel tandem.\r\n(c) Copulatory wheel position: After the completion of intramale sperm translocation, the male relaxed its abdomen and in tandem rest for 30-40 seconds, after this the male started bending its abdomen and also forced female to bend her abdomen to initiate process of wheel formation. The female then tried to interlock its vulvar region with the secondary copulatory apparatus of male by curling her abdomen forward to form the copulatory wheel (Fig. 3).\r\n \r\nFig. 3. Copulatory wheel position.\r\nAfter 2-3 attempts, the spectacular courtship wheel was formed. At the starting of the wheel position, an upward and downward motion of the male\'s abdomen has been noticed. If the wheel breaks in the process due to other conspecific males interfered or during change of perch, the pair in tandem formed the wheel again. The duration of the wheel position varied from 12-18 minutes. In single branch or perch the Copulatory Wheel pairs of 10-15 individuals observed due to dominance of this species in the study site due to mass emergence (Fig. 4). \r\n \r\nFig. 4. Many Copulatory wheel on single perch.\r\n(d). After wheel tandem: After breaking of the wheel, the male lowered the female and the female also grasped some vegetation by her legs (Fig. 5). After a rest of 02-05 minutes, the post copulatory flight was observed over the aquatic vegetation to choose the suitable spot for oviposition near the bank of Yamuna river and it lasted for 07-09 minutes.\r\n \r\nFig. 5. After wheel tandem.\r\n(e) Oviposition: The female of Bayadara indica Selys, 1853 oviposited endophytically among the aquatic plants and the eggs were laid in the tissue of leaf, petiole and stem. During oviposition the female hold the perch of plant and the male, just stayed in the air, balancing upon the prothorax of the female. The endophytic oviposition process on vegetation lasts for about 05-09 minutes. During oviposition the male in tandem and after release of grip hovers around the female, to defend her from intruding intra or inter specific males. The duration of reproductive behaviour lasts for 34-62 minutes. \r\n Darwin, (1859), stated in the “Origin of Species”, that sexual selection, “depends, not on a struggle for existence, but on a struggle between the males for possession of females [15], the result is not death to the unsuccessful competitors, but few or no offspring”. In odonates many different reproductive tactics have evolved to optimize the number of opportunities to successfully reproduce with females and the territorial behaviour, copulation and oviposition are carried out within or near the territory [7]. Several variation of the ovipositing behaviour exists in odonates, but the male has become territorial of these oviposition sites respective to its species [10].\r\nThe phenomenon of male territoriality amongst Zygoptera, is exhibited well in the damselflies of family Coenagriidae [37, 41], Calopterygidae [22, 42] and Protoneuridae [38]. Corbet [11] observed that aggressive behaviour of mature male odonates at the rendezvous was directed predominantly towards conspecific males, but in Bayadara indica Selys, 1853 males demonstrate aggressive behaviour against both conspecific and heterospecific males. During the present study in Bayadara indica Selys, 1853 the range of their territory is 05-10 meters is more as that of Ceriagrion coromandelianum and Pseudageion rubriceps 30-80cm [27] and in Pseudageion rubriceps 40-70cm [26]. The duration of copulatory wheel position was 12-18 minutes, which is more to the duration 03-08 minutes recorded for the other Coenagriidae species [26, 27] and the mating behaviour was similar to that of other zygopterans [6, 10, 29]. The endophytic oviposition by the female and the upright tandem posture adopted by the male during oviposition was quite similar to that described by Furtado [18, 30, 26, 27, 37, 39] for other species of Zygoptera. Hence, it reveals that the time period during reproductive activities observed for a particular event during present and previous studies may relatively changes with the inter or intraspecific interference, according to the habitats or by various environmental factors. Therefore, the long-term monitoring studies are required for different behavioural studies in different wetlands, riverine, reservoirs, marsh lands habitats for odonates.\r\n','Gaurav Sharma (2022). Studies on Mass Emergence and Reproductive Behaviour of Bayadara indica Selys, 1853 (Odonata: Insecta) around Yamuna River at Village Dakpathar, District Dehradun, Uttarakhand, India. International Journal of Theoretical & Applied Sciences, 14(1): 11-15(2022) '),(4861,'125','Effect of Agrochemicals on Soil Microbes and Management: An Overview','Kasula Vamshi Krishna, Rajendra Kumar Jena, Hina Upadhyay** and Prasann Kumar*','65 Effect of Agrochemicals on Soil Microbes and Management An Overview Prasann Kumar.pdf','',1,'As of today, more than a thousand agrochemicals or pesticides are commonly used in agricultural practices at various stages of growth, from seed germination to crop flowering. Nowadays, pesticides are a common practice in agriculture. As a result of conventional agriculture systems, practically all crops are treated with herbicides. Herbicides account for the majority of the pesticides used. In order for soil health and fertility, soil microorganisms and their activities play an essential role. The spraying of herbicides might have a harmful impact on microorganisms because of the herbicides. Environmental concerns, weed resistance, as well as significant health risks are some of the most significant drawbacks of pesticide use. A wide variety of pesticides is used in agriculture for a variety of purposes, which include providing nutrients into soils, inhibiting the growth of phytopathogens, and controlling plant diseases. On the other hand, the regular application of chemical fertilizers or pesticides on agricultural lands has a major impact on the texture and productivity of soil, native soil microorganisms, and the surrounding environment. Various pesticides are applied to fruits, vegetables, and crops prior to harvest, and some of the pesticides will remain on various portions of the crops as chemical residues. Ingestion of pesticide residues can cause a variety of health problems in humans, including mutagenic, cytotoxic, and genotoxic effects. Over the past few decades, the intensive and indiscriminate use of pesticides in agriculture has adversely affected soil, food safety, and biodiversity, and has negative implications on nutritional security, human and animal health. An imperative component of the agricultural environment is the soil micro biota. In addition to contributing to basic soil processes, the soil micro biota contributes to crop productivity and soil fertility. A significant part of soil\'s physical properties has to do with the activity of bacteria, and in some cases, the activity of bacteria can be a good option in conducting environmentally friendly activities in agricultural soils such as phytopathogen bio control and bioremediation. It is, therefore, no surprise that soil microbes - as well as their activity have been recognized as soil health bio indicators.','Agriculture, Pesticides, Fertilizers, Fungicides, Soil microbialbiomass','Among other things, chemical fertilizers and pesticides affect soil properties such as soil enzyme activity, dominant soil species, nutrient content, microbial and biochemical diversity, and the structural and functional diversity of microbial communities, among others. The consequences of any impact can range in scope from short-term changes to long-term changes, depending on the circumstances. However, all of these chemicals have a lot of long-term detrimental effects for soil microbial communities, despite the fact that they may appear to yield immediate benefits, such as increased crop production due to increased nutrient supply and pest control. In addition to organic fertilizers, manures, and bio control agents, which are known to increase the overall fertility and quality of soil, organic fertilizers and manures have also been increasingly used to boost long-term farming methods. For a sustainable approach, organic additions, unlike agrochemicals, are an affordable and environmentally friendly alternative to moving forward with an agrochemical-based approach.\r\nCurrent changing climatic circumstances, global warming, and the need to prevent the rise in environmental contamination necessitate sustainable agriculture techniques. Agricultural productivity has increased in all parts of the world over the last few decades, but the quick and continual application of agrochemicals during pre- or postharvest has proven to be a serious issue for both researchers and farmers. Pesticides have been used in agriculture areas in the form of chemical fertilisers, fungicides, insecticides, herbicides, and other agrochemicals, but their continued use has a negative influence on soil micro flora, texture, and productivity. The constant use of agrochemicals has an impact on soil micro flora, and abnormalities in native microbial populations have been identified as the key indicator of soil disturbance. As a result, it is vital to monitor and investigate novel techniques to controlling the persistence and degradation of toxic agrochemicals in soils in order to conserve the natural texture and productivity of soils, as well as the native micro flora.\r\n','INTRODUCTION \r\nAs mentioned earlier, agrochemicals are chemical compositions used to manage diseases, pests, and provide nutrients back into the soil. There is no doubt that the use of agrochemicals (growth regulators, insecticides, and fertilizers) has increased crop productivity and increased agricultural production. Recent research suggests that the widespread use of these agrochemicals in soils throughout the world may have contributed to soil degradation because of widespread use in recent decades. This is one of the most serious side effects of traditional agriculture. It is estimated that before the industrialization of farming, farming methods were more eco-friendly in maintaining biological pest control, buffer zones around the edges of the farms, and soil nutrients. The crop yield was primarily reliant on existing resources, such as crop rotation and organic matter recycling. In doing so, these farming techniques contribute toward maintaining the balance between the natural environment and agriculture. It was because of this that signs of environmental damage were virtually non-existent. Agriculture has progressed at a time when there has been a lack of understanding of ecological principles, thereby disrupting the balance between agriculture and the environment. Agricultural modernization results in an increase in productivity, although often at the expense of the quality of the environment. It has been proven that when synthetic fertilizers (including nitrogen, phosphorus, and potassium) are excessed and used in combination with organic fertilizers, they have a negative impact on native micro flora, soil productivity, and texture, soil enzyme action, human health, and the environment (Zhang et al., 2015).\r\nThroughout the globe, these compounds are widely used to increase agricultural productivity, manage diseases, pests, viruses, weeds, and minimize crop damage. It has been scientifically established that synthetic agrochemicals are very hazardous and have a negative impact on human and environmental health (Briggs & Courtney 1989). An increase in fertilizer application would ultimately result in groundwater contamination because of fertilizer runoff (Singh et al., 2004).\r\nThere are a number of pesticides that have been banned in developed countries, including 1,2,3,4,5,6-hexachlorocyclohexaneand 1,1,1-trichloro-2,2-bis(4-chlorophenyl)ethane (DDT). There are still many countries, such as India and South Africa that continue to utilize them despite their low wages (van denBerg et al., 2017; Jayaraj et al., 2016). The pesticide market in India is the second-largest in Asia. There is a major concern in India about pesticide residues, despite the fact that the country\'s pesticide usage (0.29) is significantly lower than that of developed countries in Latin America such as Japan (11.85 kg/ha), Brazil (4.57 kg/ha), China (13.06 kg/ha) and others. Pesticide use is highest in Uttar Pradesh, Maharashtra, Haryana, and Punjab, out of India\'s 29 states.\r\nOver the last decade, the use of pesticides has increased in Uttar Pradesh and Maharashtra, whereas in Haryana and Punjab, the use of pesticides has decreased slightly. There is also evidence that pesticide consumption is going down dramatically in Gujarat, Karnataka, and West Bengal, whereas it is going up in Kerala and Chhattisgarh. Nevertheless, according to the ACIA, during 2016-17, Punjab, Haryana, and Maharashtra saw the highest pesticide use per hectare area, while Bihar, Karnataka, Madhya Pradesh, and Rajasthan saw the lowest. Each year, 377.76 thousand tonnes of agrochemicals are shipped, with fungicides accounting for over half (45.99 percent). The five top pesticides reported as exports from India are acephate, chlorpyrifos, sulphur, cypermethrin, and mancozeb, according to the Central Board of Excise and Customs (Abhilash & Singh 2009; Carvalho, 2017; Subash et al., 2017). According to the FAO, global fertiliser usage is predicted to increase by 1.0 percent each year between 2015 and 2030, from 138 million tonnes in 1997/98 to 182 million tonnes in 2030 (Bruinsma, 2017).\r\nSoil Micro flora in Agriculture. As far as microbial diversity is concerned, the soil is the black box. There are a number of microorganisms that are found in this environment, including bacteria, fungi, protozoa, algae, and viruses, among others. There is a much greater diversity and quantity of microorganisms present. The findings from a study conducted by Torsvik et al. (1996), indicate that there are approximately 6000 separate bacterial genomes per gram of soil, based on the size of the genome of Escherichia coli as an example genome size of Escherichia coli as a unit. It seems that there are quite so many almost one million bacterial genes per gram of soil that modern analytical tools have recently been able to show (Gans et al., 2005; Handelsman & Tiedje 2007).\r\nMicroorganisms and nutrient cycles in the soil are extremely complicated and poorly defined. Despite the fact that bacteria are the most prevalent microorganisms in the soil, they are followed by actinomycetes, fungus, algae, and protozoa in that order (Sylvia et al., 1998). Microorganisms play an important role in basic soil processes and participate actively in nutrient cycling, which helps to improve soil health and crop productivity (Jacoby et al., 2017). Different patterns of bacterial and fungal dominance can be seen in cultivated soils. Bacteria and fungi make up the majority of microbial biomass in soil, which accounts for roughly 1–4% of total organic matter (Brookes 2001). In cultivated fields, however, large variations in the ratio of fungal and bacterial biomass were observed, which are influenced by, land management strategies, environmental factors, Nutritional content in soil, and biomass assessment methodologies. According to de Vries et al., 2006 and Strickland & Rousk 2010, bacterial biomass dominates in traditional tillage systems, whereas fungi are dominant in no-tillage agricultural systems. Soil microbial diversity refers to the whole spectrum of microorganisms that live in all of the macro and microhabitats that make up the soil ecosystem. It comprises genetic differences, species ecological and evolutionary adaptations, abiotic and biotic interactions, and ecosystem complexity, as well as diversity between and within species. Microbe genetic diversity is described as the amount and distribution of genetic information within microbial species, or, to put it another way, the richness and evenness of soil micro flora (Nannipieri et al., 2003).\r\nA variety of biotic and abiotic factors have been linked to changes in microbial activity and diversity, including soil management strategies such as monotype agriculture, nutrient amendments such as organic manures or inorganic fertilizers, land use patterns, and environmental conditions (Sun et al., 2004; Li et al., 2007; Nautiyal et al., 2010). Despite substantial evidence shows chemical fertilizers and pesticides impact soil microorganisms, the limited quantity of material available shows a highly varied pattern. Fertilizers and pesticides can affect soil micro flora in the short and long term, both through direct influence on microorganisms and indirectly through unfavourable changes in the environment (Seymour, 2005).\r\nAs a result, given the relevance of soil micro flora in ecologically soil activities like detox reactions, and evaluation of the functional and structural properties of microbial populations can be used to track the influence of agrochemicals on the soil environment.\r\nIt seems as though most microbes prefer to live in the soil since the soil is one of the most diverse habitats that they have, as well as being the most conducive. Cultivated soil contains a wide variety of micro flora species that can be found on the surface. There are estimated to be about 1048 microbial species in one gram of soil, which is quite a significant number. A single gram of soil contains around one million bacterial genomes (Trevors, 2010). A number of important soil processes are compromised by soil micro flora (bacteria, algae, fungi, viruses, and protozoa), including the breaking down of organic and inorganic compounds, soil fertility, nutrient cycles, and a range of other important functions. The micro flora in the soil plays an important role in soil properties such as structure, aeration, porosity, and water permeability. As the result of human activity, soils that have been contaminated with undesirable compounds can become contaminated with undesirable microbes, and it is important for the microbial population to play a key role in the bioremediation of those soils. There is also evidence that various soil microbes are involved in phytopathogen biocontrol (Ampofo et al., 2009; Prashar & Shah 2016). Some of the benefits of soil microbes are shown in Fig. 1.\r\nA pesticides\' impact on microorganisms is large as a result of ambient conditions, soil quality, and the amount of pesticide that\'s being used. In the soil, pesticides can be degraded, desorption, adsorption, and transported in a variety of ways, depending on specific soil characteristics and the chemicals present in the pesticide. There is some evidence that pesticides might alter the physiology and metabolism of soil microorganisms (Ramakrishnan et al., 2019). There is a possibility that pesticides might negatively affect the diversity of soil microorganisms because they reduce the quality of organic matter in the soil. Considering the fact that all these microbes participate in a variety of nutrient recycling operations as well as processing operations, any variation in their number or composition can significantly alter the soil fertilizing properties. There is no doubt that pesticides interfere with the essential functions that microorganisms perform, such as cell division, cell growth, photosynthesis, molecular composition, biosynthesis, and respiration, in a manner that antibiotics do not. It is believed that some pesticides increase microbial growth, while others suppress it. There is some evidence suggesting that pesticides and fertilizers applied on the field may affect a few specific bacterial species, but the overall impact on the population of microbes is insignificant (Ryan, 1999). On the other hand, there is some evidence suggesting that pesticides can adversely affect soil microorganisms (Gupta et al., 2000).\r\nEffect of Herbicides on Soil microbes. The overall microbial population is greatly reduced by herbicides 7-30 days after spraying, depending on the type of herbicide used (Milosevic & Govedarica 2002) and following spraying herbicides systematically disrupt the physiology or biosynthetic pathways of microbes, negatively affecting their biodiversity indirectly (Kremer et al., 2009). The increased enzymatic activity in soil has an impact on cellular membrane composition, soil enzyme activity, plant growth regulators (i.e. gibberellin production, transportation of IAA, the concentration of ethylene, etc.), and protein synthesis. There has been evidence that many sensitive microorganisms die as a result of the administration of excessive levels and increasing levels of herbicide (Milosevic & Govedarica 2002).\r\nHerbicides may also have different herbicidal effects based on the type of soil they are applied to. Herbicides can have a significant effect on soils with coarse textures. As an example, researchers found that when used on sandy-clay loam soils, herbicides had an overwhelmingly negative impact on microbial interactions and chickpea survival (Khan et al., 2006). Atrazine has been shown to dramatically reduce soil microorganisms\' activity when repeatedly applied to the soil. As a result, atrazine and metolachlor are able to adversely impact soil biodiversity in the form of bacteria and actinomycetes (Seghers & Verthé 2003). The herbicide glyphosate, which is a nonselective organophosphate herbicide, has been shown to reduce phosphate enzyme activity by up to 98 percent (Sannino & Gianfreda 2001). \r\nEffect of Fungicides on Soil Microbes. There have been a number of studies that have demonstrated that soil temperature and moisture can negatively impact soil microbes, their growth and survival, and their activity (Cyco et al., 2006). In fact, fungicides like bavistin can exhibit a variety of effects on the soil microbe population such as affecting the bacterial flora in different ways. Some fungicides that have been found to be affected by AMFs have been found, although this is not the case for all fungicides. A number of fungicides are toxic to hyphal growth, resulting in the root system being colonized by AMF organization in pea (Cyco et al., 2006). Benzyl is reported to be a major contributor to the decline in mycorrhizal associations (Smith et al., 2000). It is understood that some types of groundnuts are particularly sensitive to the effects of carbendazim (an antifungicide that belongs to the benzimidazole family) and Emisan (a fungicide containing 6% 2-methoxyethylmercury chloride). As an alternative, a Cu treatment can help stimulate the development of the mycorrhizal fungi in peanuts. A substance called metalaxyl is beneficial to the colonization of soybeans and maize roots by AM. An analysis conducted by scientists from the University of New Mexico revealed that seed-applied fungicides in combination with fludioxonil are most likely to encourage AM colonization in non-fumigated soils due to reduced competition from aggressive pathogens such as Rhizoctonia spp., the organism targeted by this fungicide (Murillo-Williams & Pedersen 2008). Some of the commonly used fungicides are listed below (Table 1).\r\nImpacts of pesticides on Soil Micro biota. The most common reason for crop failure in the world is plant diseases, which represent a significant threat to global food security. As much as ten to fifteen percent of the production of the world\'s major crops, such as rice, wheat, maize, and potatoes, is lost to pest-induced plant diseases every year (Pinstrup-Andersen, 2001). Chemical pesticides have been the most common method of eliminating phytopathogens in the past, mainly due to the fact that they are the most efficient and most practical to use. This has resulted in a gradual increase in the use of chemical pesticides over the years. \r\nPesticides, which remain in the soil for a long time, slowly degrade and become a cause of contamination in the soil and groundwater (Pe´rez-Lucas et al., 2018). It is true that pesticides have been used in agricultural soils steadily since the turn of the century, in order to combat pest-induced crop losses and keep up with the ever-expanding food demand. Pesticides are the most heavily used products in the world, followed by Europe and Asia, whereas China is the global leader in pesticide production and consumption, closely followed by the United States. Some of the commonly used pesticides are listed below i.e (Table 2).\r\nThe potential for soil and agro-ecosystems to suffer direct or indirect adverse impacts is of great concern when it comes to the use of chemical pesticides since they are bioactive, poisonous chemicals. The Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations (FAO) describes a pesticide as a chemical substance that is used to control one or more animals or plants. It includes insecticides, fungicides, herbicides, rodenticides, nematodes, growth regulators, defoliants, fruit thinners, desiccants, and the like. Also, it is used to prevent premature crop damage, especially during harvest. A pesticide should, from a concept standpoint, not affect non-target soil species, have a short shelf life, be biodegradable, and be inexpensive. The majority of them, however, have chronic and acute toxicity as well as being classified as biocides. This means that they can be harmful to all living things except for the target pest species (Zacharia, 2011). There are many of them that \r\ncan penetrate the cell walls of non-target soil microorganisms, disrupting their normal metabolisms and causing cell death. It has become apparent that pesticides, in their many forms, pose a serious threat to the biodiversity of soils and their natural habitats, as well as their associated negative effects including contamination of groundwater and soil, their enrolment in the food chain, posing a health risk to higher organisms such as humans, and the development of pest-resistant crops (Sattler et al., 2006). As a result, pesticides\' adverse effects on non-target soil species have become a major topic of concern.\r\nManagement Options. In spite of this, studies on the detrimental effects of pesticides and their derivatives have been conducted for more than a decade. In addition, various legislative measures and pesticide problems have also been reported (Pandey & Singh 2004). By developing quick and accurate analytical procedures, it has been possible to provide a more effective implementation of pesticides\' long-term effects as well as mitigating their long-term effects on soils and natural ecosystems. The result of this is that as our understanding of pesticides and their impact on health and the environment improves, existing current legislation acts are being altered or improved at a rapid rate. This implies that there has been a significant improvement in the effectiveness and efficiency of the control of that pest (Enserink et al., 2013). This paper describes a method that has been reported to be remarkably effective for limiting the negative effects of pesticides, their implementations, and their by-products (Owen et al., 2015). In order to tackle the danger of chemical pollution, a number of eco-friendly techniques are emerging, including biological pest control. Here are some of the most effective management approaches to help tackle chemical pollution.\r\nBio pesticides. It has been shown that microorganisms or plants can produce bio pesticides that are bio pesticides (microbial pesticides), or they can produce biological pesticides (plant incorporating pesticides or PIPs), or other naturally occurring products (biochemical pesticides, or BCPs). It is feasible to develop more bio pesticides that are being used for a number of reasons, including the need to provide an alternative to conventional pesticides. This alternative must be not only environmentally friendly but can also increase soil productivity, prevent soil contamination, and provide a better solution for microbial soil ecosystems of higher society. It is imperative that bio pesticides are used in agricultural production in order to make it environmentally sustainable. Bio pesticides ensure that soil health and environmental sustainability are enhanced. The introduction of helpful microbes into any living system is essential if a person wishes to have a dominant influence over disease-causing microbial communities. Generally, it is accepted that bio-products can boost soil nutrient uptake efficiency and improve the productivity of plants when they are directly sprayed on soil or when sprayed on the leaves of plants. While pathogenic microorganism-based bio pesticides are particular to a specific pest, bio pesticides derived from useful interactors are a superior and more environmentally friendly option. As a result, unlike conventional chemicals pesticides, bio pesticides do not have a harmful effect on a range of ecosystems or soil microorganisms (Gupta et al., 2010). \r\nBacillus huringiensis (Bt), Baculoviruses, Trichoderma, and Azadirachta indica are among the most extensively utilized bio pesticides. There are several strains of Bacillus thuringiensis that are used for controlling insect larvae in plants, with some of them being particularly effective against mosquito and fly larvae (Meena et al., 2016).\r\nPlant-Based Products. It has been found that the active synthesis of chemicals by the roots of plants has a significant impact on the microbial community in soil (Neal et al., 2012). Strigolactones are known to be plant sesquiterpenes that remarkably enhance the symbiotic relationship between plants and fungi by stimulating Glomeromycota mycorrhizal fungi, for example (Akiyama and Hayashi 2006). Flavonoids are believed to be produced by legumes and to act as signalling molecules that attract N-fixing bacteria to the rhizosphere and facilitate the formation of symbiotic rhizobial associations with them (Broughton et al., 2003; Pathan et al., 2018). A group of rhizobacteria known as plant-growth-promoting rhizobacteria (PGPR) has the capability of releasing organic acids into the soil, which is beneficial for other soil microbes. In one study, it was determined that tomato roots emit fumaric acid and citric acid, and both of these are able to attract Pseudomonas fluorescence (Gupta Sood 2003). Neem cake oil is another example of a bio pesticide in use and is an excellent product for managing a wide range of pests, as well as providing nourishment to soil microbes as well as improving soil physicochemical properties Gopal et al., 2007). A well-known pesticide, azadirachtin (an allelochemical from the plant neem), has been well documented for its antifungal and antimicrobial properties for quite some time now, both of which have been well documented in scientific studies. According to the findings of a recent study conducted to evaluate the effects of azadirachtin granules at 10% concentration combined with China clay, an alcoholic extraction of the kernels of neem plants, on microbacterial communities and enzyme activities, it has been determined at all concentrations that azadirachtin reduces microbacterial communities and enzyme activities.\r\n','Kasula Vamshi Krishna, Rajendra Kumar Jena, Hina Upadhyay and Prasann Kumar (2022). Effect of Agrochemicals on Soil Microbes and Management: An Overview. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 14(2): 373-380.'),(4862,'125','Economic Analysis of Tomato Cultivation','K. Sruthi Sai*, P. Gayathri, Kalla Ashok, Ch. Ramya Sri and B. Mohan Uday Raj','66 Economic Analysis of Tomato Cultivation K. Sruthi Sai.pdf','',1,'The present paper aims to study the profitability of tomato cultivation. The study was conducted in Siddipet district of Telangana state. The primary data required for the study was collected from 102 tomato growers of the district. The collected data was analysed using the appropriate statistical tools to obtain the required results. The results of the study revealed that the overall cost of cultivation was found to be Rs. 2, 16,266.43 per hectare and among which the major proportion was occupied by human labour costs. The return per rupee investment was found to be 1.29 indicating the profitable cultivation of tomato.','Economic analysis, tomato, cost concepts, returns, farm income measures','In a nutshell, tomato cultivation was found to be profitable as indicated by the greater returns per rupee investment of 1.29. The major loophole evident in the tomato farming is that of the higher cost of cultivation which reduced the net income of tomato growers. This could be corrected by encouraging farmers to take up improved methods of production practices like organic farming and zero budget natural farming. These methods not only are remunerative to farmers but are also beneficial on the basis of environmental and consumer health standards. ','INTRODUCTION \r\nIndia is bestowed with bountiful resources, fertile soils and diversified cropping patterns which give a boost to the cultivation of numerous varieties of vegetables. As such India has occupied the second position with respect to production of vegetables in the world and is estimated to produce 197.23 million tonnes of vegetables from 10.97 million hectares of land during the year 2020-21. Among the numerous vegetables cultivated, tomato occupies a major share with 21.056 million tonnes of production from 0.86 million hectares of land. (Third advance estimates, Ministry of agriculture and farmers welfare, 2020-21). Apart from this, tomato is considered as a protective food and is a rich source of vitamins A, C, potassium, minerals and fibers. (Ramappa and Manjunatha 2016). Despite having such an extensive cultivation, tomato farmers often face issues related to production and marketing such as high production costs and high market price fluctuations which impact their income adversely. The present study aims to analyse the production pattern of tomato by computing the cost of cultivation, cost concepts and farm income measures in a holistic manner and to derive the necessary measures for the improvisation of the cultivation pattern of tomato. \r\nMATERIALS AND METHODS\r\nThe present research was conducted in Siddipet district of Telangana state. Two villages were purposively chosen from each of the three selected mandals and 17 tomato growing farmers were chosen at random from each village and thus making a total of 102 farmers to collect the primary data needed for the study. The collected data was analysed employing various analytical tools such as simple tabular analysis to calculate the cost of cultivation of tomato per hectare. In addition, cost concepts formulated according to the CACP methodology as well as farm income measures were enumerated in order to assess the profitability of tomato farming. The collected primary data pertains to the kharif season of the agricultural year 2019-20. \r\nA. Cost Concepts \r\nThe cost concepts viz., Cost A1, Cost A2, Cost B1, Cost B2, Cost C1, Cost C2 and Cost C3 were computed as follows: \r\nCost A1: It included all actual expenses in cash and kind (if any) incurred in production by the farmer. \r\n(i) Value of hired human labour \r\n(ii) Value of bullock labour (both hired and owned) \r\n(iii) Value of machine power (both hired and owned) \r\n(iv) Value of seeds (both owned and purchased) \r\n(v) Value of insecticides and pesticides, weedicides \r\n(vi) Value of manures (both owned and purchased) \r\n(vii) Value of fertilizers \r\n(viii) Depreciation of implements and farm buildings\r\n(ix) Irrigation charges \r\n(x) Land revenue, cess and other taxes \r\n(xi) Miscellaneous expenses (electricity charges etc) \r\n(xii) Interest on working capital \r\nCost A2: Cost A1 + rent paid for leased in-land \r\nCost B1: Cost A2 + interest on value of owned capital assets (excluding land) \r\nCost B2: Cost B1 + rental value of owned land \r\nCost C1: Cost B1 + imputed value of family labour \r\nCost C2: Cost B2 + imputed value of family labour \r\nCost C3: Cost C2 × 1.10, (10% of cost C2 is added to cost C2): This concept was added to provide allowance for managerial functions undertaken by the farmer. It is the total cost or comprehensive cost of cultivation. \r\nB. Gross income and net income \r\nThe physical output (in tonnes per hectare) realised was multiplied with per tonne market price to arrive at the gross income. The net income was then obtained after subtracting the cost of cultivation incurred.\r\nC. Farm income measures \r\ni) Returns over variable cost (RVC) = Gross income – Cost A1 \r\nii) Farm business income (FBI) = Gross income – Cost A2\r\niii) Family labour income (FLI) or returns to family labour = Gross income – Cost B2 \r\niv) Net income (NI) = Gross income – Cost C2 \r\nv) Returns to management (RM) = Gross income – Cost C3\r\nD. Returns per rupee investment \r\nIt was computed by dividing the gross income with the cost of cultivation incurred. \r\nRPR = Gross income / Cost C2\r\nRESULTS AND DISCUSSION \r\nA. Cost of cultivation of tomato \r\nThe cost of cultivation particulars of tomato per hectare are presented in Table 1. The overall cost of cultivation of tomato per hectare was found to be Rs. 2, 16,266.43. Out of which variable costs occupied a greater share of 91.95 per cent whereas the share of fixed costs was 8.05 per cent. These results were found to be in accordance with the results of Agarwal and Banerjee (2019). Among the variable costs, labour costs were major and alone occupied about a 50 per cent share in the total costs. This is because of the reason that the vegetable cultivation is a labour-oriented enterprise. Next to labour cost, the plant protection chemicals occupy a major share (8.30%) of the total costs. Fungicides like Mancozeb and Chlorothalonil were found to be extensively utilised (about 3 to 5 applications) in the tomato cultivation. In addition to these, urea, DAP and other complex fertilizers were applied and they occupy a share of 7.25 per cent in the total costs. Herbicides like Metribuzin were also utilised for the weed control and they occupied a meagre share of 0.54 per cent. Next to the plant protection chemicals, the greater share was occupied by seed/seedling cost, occupying 6.31 per cent of the total costs. In addition to these, the other material costs which included those of the mulch sheets and growth promoters were also considered as a component of variable costs and they occupied a share of 3.63 per cent of total costs. Further, the interest on working capital was also computed at the rate of 7 per cent and it was found to occupy a major share of 11.29 per cent of the total cost. Among the fixed costs, the rental value of owned land occupied the major share of 7.43 per cent of the total cost. The other fixed costs like depreciation and interest on fixed capital (which was computed at the rate of 10%) occupied only a meagre share of total cost of cultivation.\r\nThe various cost concepts of tomato were also calculated according to the CACP methodology and presented in Table 2. \r\nThe actual expenses incurred for cultivation of tomato is considered as cost A1 which was Rs.1, 30,533.61 per hectare. Both the cost A1 and A2 were equal as all the respondents were cultivating tomato in their owned lands. Among these costs, cost C2 was considered as the total cost of cultivation which was Rs. 2, 16,266.43 and cost C3 which also included the managerial component of the farmer was found to be Rs. 2, 37,893.07.\r\nB. Returns obtained from tomato cultivation \r\nThe returns obtained from cultivation of tomato are presented in Table 3. The average yield of tomato per hectare was found to be 30.46 tonnes and the average gross price obtained per tonne was Rs. 10,087.96. Since prices of vegetables fluctuate widely, the gross price per tonne was computed by considering the average of price obtained at multiple harvests. The price of tomato thus ranged from Rs. 8000 per tonne to Rs. 25000 per tonne. It can also be observed that cultivation of tomato was profitable as indicated by its returns per rupee investment of 1.29 (i.e. greater than unity) and net income of Rs. 91,012.98.\r\nIn addition to these, farm income measures were also computed and presented in Table 4. \r\nTable 3: Returns obtained from tomato cultivation.\r\nSr. No. Particulars Amount\r\n1. Cost of cultivation (Rs./ha) 216266.43\r\n2. Yield (t/ha) 30.46\r\n3. Price per tonne 10087.96\r\n4. Gross income (Rs./ha) 307279.41\r\n5. Net income (Rs./ha) 91012.98\r\n6. Returns per rupee investment 1.29\r\nTable 4: Farm income measures of tomato cultivation.\r\nSr. No. Income measures Amount (Rs./ha)\r\n1. Returns over variable cost (RVC) 176745.80\r\n2. Farm business income (FBI) 176745.80\r\n3. Family labour income (FLI) 159526.77\r\n4. Net income (NI) 91012.98\r\n5. Returns to management 69386.34\r\nIt is evident from the table that both farm business income and returns over variable cost were equal, which was Rs. 1, 76,745.80 per hectare. The net income and returns to management of tomato growers was found to be Rs. 91,012.98 and Rs. 69,386.34 respectively. \r\n','K. Sruthi Sai, P. Gayathri, Kalla Ashok, Ch. Ramya Sri and B. Mohan Uday Raj (2022). Economic Analysis of Tomato Cultivation. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 14(2): 381-383.'),(4863,'125','Effect of Varieties, Topping and Plant Growth Retardant on Qualitative characters of Sweet Potato (Ipomoea batatas L.) under Agro-climatic condition of Chhattisgarh Plains','Khusboo Sahu*, Vijay Kumar, Jitendra Singh, Sunna Deepti and S.S. Porte','67 Effect of Varieties, Topping and Plant Growth Retardant on Qualitative characters of Sweet Potato _Ipomoea batatas L._ under Agro-climatic condition of Chhattisgarh Plains Khusboo Sahu.pdf','',1,'A Field Experiment was conducted at Horticulture Research cum Instructional Farm of Indira Gandhi Krishi Vishwavidyalaya, Raipur, during rabi 2018-2019 and 2019-2020 by adopting three important factor of crop production Varieties, Topping and Plant growth retardant levels, it seems necessary factors for achieving the higher yield and quality attributes of sweet potato. Sweet potato topping raises the yield and starch content of root tubers. Sweet potato is a vine crop hence it necessitates to strike the balance between vegetative and reproductive phase towards achieving higher root tuber yields. Which may be reduced through vine managed by topping at different stages of plant growth and by use of plant growth retardant. Out of 24 treatment combinations comprised of four level of varieties (Indira Madhur, Indira Nandani, Sree Rethna, Chhattisgarh Sarkarkand Priya), three levels of topping (Control, Topping 30cm from top at 60DAP, Topping 30cm from top at 80DAP) and two levels plant growth retardant (Control, foliar spray of cycocel 500ppm after 60 and 80 DAP). The result shown that V4 –Chhattisgarh Sarkarkand Priya × T1 i.e Topping 30cm from top at 60 DAP × P1i.e cycocel 500ppm as foliar spray at 60 and 80 DAP recorded significantly, higher qualitative characters like starch recovery in root tuber (%), Total soluble sugar, total sugar in root tuber (%) and protein in root tuber (%).','Varieties, topping, plant growth retardant, Sweet potato, Quality','The qualitative characters produced significantly higher value in Variety V4 –Chhattisgarh Sarkarkand Priya. In consideration of topping the highest values was recorded from T1 i.e topping at 60 DAP treatment. In consideration of plant growth retardant treatment, P1i.e foliar spray of cycocel 500ppm at 60 and 80 DAP obtained the highest. In consideration of interaction effect of V4 –Chhattisgarh Sarkarkand Priya X T1 i.e topping at 60 DAP X P1 i.e cycocel 500ppm as foliar spray at 60 and 80 DAP obtained the highest values and gave significant influence on quality characters like, starch recovery in root tuber (%), Total soluble sugar, total sugar in root tuber (%) and protein in root tuber (%). The experiment may be conducted in different agro-climatic zones of Chhattisgarh state. Some other growth regulators along with their combinations may be utilized in future studies.','INTRODUCTION\r\nSweet potato (Ipomoea batatas L.) is popularly known as sarkarkand it originated from Central America belong to family convolvulaceae. Approximately 900 different species of Convolvulaceae in 400 genera have been identified around the world. Yen (1974); Austin (1978, 1988) recognized 11 species in the section batatas, which includes sweet potato. The closest relative of the sweet potato appears to be Ipomoea trifida that is found wild in Mexico, and Ipomoea tabascana. It is hexaploid species with chromosome number 2n = 90. Sweet potato is a dicotyledonous plant with tubers derived from swollen roots. It is an important starchy food crop grown in the world’s tropical and sub-tropical regions. It is a perennial herbaceous plant planted as an annual vine. Sweet potato, after rice, wheat, potato, maize and cassava, is the sixth most important food crop Worldwide. Among different vegetables; after cereals and grain legumes, tuber plant are the most important food crops. In tropical, subtropical and temperate areas, it serves as staple food for millions of individuals. These crops are known for their high calorific value and their ability to resist adverse soil and climatic conditions (Saravaiya and Patel 2005). The main feature of tuber crops is that these crops have high production per unit area per unit time and is expected to bridge the food shortages and malnutrition. They are tolerant to drought and can be grown even on undulated and unfertile soil. The crop has the additional advantage that due to rapid soil coverage and good rooting characteristics, it helps to reduce soil erosion. Thus, sweet potato is a particularly valuable crop for poorer farmers. The area under Sweet potato cultivation in India is 134.88 thousand ha with a production of 1638.8 thousand MT and productivity 12.2 MT ha respectively. Odisha is leading state with area 40.80 thousand ha and production 384.51 thousand tonne. It is an important tubers crop in tribal dominant Chhattisgarh state. The underground root as well as leaves of which are consumed as vegetable. The tubers and vine is used as feed for cattle. In Chhattisgarh state, Sweet potato is cultivated in an area 5.57 thousand ha with production 200.03 thousand MT. Major growing belts in Chhattisgarh are Sarguja, Kondagaon, Balrampur, Korba, Raigarh, Kanker, Bilaspur and Kabirdham districts (Anon., 2017). Shoot pruning, particularly the quality and quantity of Sweet potato tubers, increases tuber formation. The timing of shoot pruning influences the growth of the plant, especially the Sweet potato. The vegetative organs will increase if shoot pruning occurs during the late vegetative phase, whereas if shoot pruning occurs during the late vegetative phase, the development of generative organs may accelerate, while it will be spread to the tubers. If the balance of vegetative and reproductive phases is established, photosynthate accumulation will also be balanced. The plants with medium vegetative growth have more tubers. Sweet potato topping raises the yield and starch content of root tubers (Villareal and Griggs 1982). To identify the best variety suited combination of topping treatments and growth retardant concentration for improving quality attributes.\r\nMATERIALS AND METHODS\r\nA Field Experiment was conducted at Horticulture Research cum Instructional Farm of Indira Gandhi Krishi Vishwavidyalaya, Raipur situated at latitude 21°16’ N, 81°36’ E and 289.56 m above mean sea level. The experiment was carried out during rabi seasons of 2018-19 and 2019-20. The soil is a predominantly light-textured Clay loam with a pH of 7.12.The organic matter content of the soil ranges between 0.49 to 0.60% at 0 to 20 cm soil depth. The experiment was laid out in Factorial Randomized Block Design with 24 treatment combinations which were replicated three times. The treatments included: four varieties (i) Indira Madhur (ii) Indira Nandani (iii) Sree Rethna (iv) Chhattisgarh Sarkark and Priya, 3 levels of topping (i) Control (No topping) (ii) Topping 30cm from top at 60DAP iii) Topping 30cm from top at 80DAP and 2 levels plant growth retardant treatments (i) Control (P0), (ii) foliar spray of Cycocel 500ppm after 60 and 80 DAP (P1). The treatments were randomly allotted in each replication in a total 72 plots of 2 m × 1.8 m size in each accommodating 30 plants. The cutting was planted at 20 cm distance on ridges spaced at 60 cm. The crop was applied @75:50:75 NPK kg/ha in the form of urea, single super phosphate and muriate of potash, respectively. Urea was applied in two split doses, first as basal and second after the 45 days of vine planting in main field as top dressing. Full dose of phosphorus and potassium along with FYM 10 t/ha were applied as basal dose. The vine was turned and lifted during the growth period of 45 and 75 days after planting to prevent rooting from nodes. \r\nRESULTS AND DISCUSSION \r\nStarch recovery in root tubers (%). The data starch recovery in root tubers (%) as influenced by varieties, topping and plant growth retardant are presented in Table 1. The variety Chhattisgarh Sarkarkand Priya (V4) showed maximum starch recovery of root tuber (7.79 %) followed by V3- Sree Rethna (7.49 %). Among topping, treatments during the investigation significant maximum starch recovery percent was recorded in T1 i.e topping at 60 DAP (6.99 %) which was found statistically at par with treatment T0i.e control. The minimum starch recovery percent was noticed in T2 i.e topping at 80 DAP (6.50 %). These results are supported by the findings of earlier workers reported that topping of sweet potato increased starch content of the roots because it minimized the competition between shoots and roots in drawing photosynthates (Griggs and Villareal 1982). The results indicated that P1 i.e cycocel 500ppm as foliar spray at 60 and 80 DAP significantly maximum starch recovery of root tuber was recorded (7.26 %). The minimum starch recovery of root tuber was noticed in P0 i.e control (6.20 %). The interactions among varieties, topping and growth retardant treatment showed non-significant impact on starch recovery of root tuber are presented in Table 2. The interactions between V4T1 P1 i.e when topping at 60 DAP and cycocel 500ppm as foliar spray at 60 and 80 DAP produced maximum starch recovery (9.05 %) followed by V4 T0 P1 i.e cycocel 500ppm as foliar spray at 60 and 80 DAP (8.83 %) among different treatment combination. The significant improvement in starch recovery of root tuber under different treatment combinations were noticed over control treatment i.e. when no topping and cycocel 500ppm was applied at 60 and 80 DAP foliar spray was done.\r\nTotal soluble solids (oBrix). The data on Total soluble solids in tubers as influenced by varieties, topping and plant growth retardant are presented in Table 1.The variety Chhattisgarh Sarkarkand Priya (V4 ) showed maximum total soluble solids (12.04 Brixo) followed by Indira Madhur (V1) (10.17 Brixo). However minimum total soluble solids was noticed in Sree Rethna (V3) (8.96 Brix0). The higher total soluble solids due to varietal characteristic. Among topping, treatments during the investigation significant maximum total soluble solids in root tuber was recorded in T2 i.e topping at 80 DAP (10.66 Brixo ) followed by T1 i.e topping at 60 DAP. The minimum total soluble solids in root tuber was noticed in T0 i.e control. The results indicated that P1 i.e cycocel 500ppm as foliar spray at 60 and 80 DAP significantly maximum total soluble solids in root tuber was recorded (10.54 Brixo). The minimum total soluble solids in root tuber was noticed in P0 i.e control (9.95Brixo). The interaction between varieties, topping and growth retardant treatments exhibited significant impact on total soluble solids in root tuber are presented in Table 2. The data indicated that maximum values of total soluble solids in root tuber in V4 –Chhattisgarh Sarkarkand Priya in combination with different topping and plant growth retardant treatments over rest of the counter parts. The interactions between V4T0P1 i.e cycocel 500ppm as foliar spray at 60 and 80 DAP recorded higher total soluble solids in root tuber (12.89Brixo) which was found statistically at par with treatment of same variety. The minimum total soluble solids in root tuber was recorded in V3 T0 P0 i.e control (8.64 Brixo). The higher total soluble solids due to varietal characteristic. Similar results are recorded that total soluble solids in root tuber of sweet potato by Slosar et al. (2019).\r\nMoisture content (%). The data on moisture content (%) in tubers as influenced by varieties, topping and plant growth retardant are presented in Table 1. The variety Indira Nandani (V2) showed maximum moisture content (78.54%) followed by Indira Madhur (V1) (70.67%). However minimum moisture content was noticed in Chhattisgarh Sarkarkand Priya (V4) (64.65%). Among Topping, treatments T1 i.e topping at 60 DAP obtained higher moisture content in root tuber (72.09 %) in comparison to rest of the treatments and while the lower moisture content was noted under treatment T2 i.e topping at 80 DAP (69.11 %). As regards, plant growth retardant, perusal of data indicated that treatment P1 i.e cycocel 500ppm as foliar spray at 60 and 80 DAP recorded significantly maximum moisture content of root tuber (72.89%) as compare to control treatment (P0). The interactions among varieties, topping and growth retardant treatments exhibited non-significant impact on moisture content during are presented in Table 2. The interactions of data between V2T0P1 i.e cycocel 500ppm as foliar spray at 60 and 80 DAP produced maximum moisture content (86.21 %) followed by V2T1 P1 i.e when topping at 60 DAP and Cycocel 500ppm as foliar spray at 60 and 80 DAP among different treatments. Similar results are recorded that moisture content in the Sweet potato varieties by Rose and Vasanthakaalam (2011); Kamal et al. (2013).\r\nProtein in root tubers (%). The data protein in root tubers (%) as influenced by varieties, topping and plant growth retardant are presented in Table 1. The variety Chhattisgarh Sarkarkand Priya (V4) showed maximum of protein content in root tubers (3.95 %) followed by Indira Madhur (V1) (3.47%). However protein content in root tuber was noticed in Indira Nandini (V2) (2.68 %). Among topping, treatments during the investigation significant maximum protein content was recorded in T1i.e topping at 60 DAP (3.45 %) followed by T0 i.e control. The minimum protein content was noticed in T2i.e topping at 80 DAP (3.05 %). As regards, plant growth retardant, perusal of data indicated that treatment P1 i.e cycocel 500ppm as foliar spray at 60 and 80 DAP recorded significantly maximum protein content in root tuber (3.52 %) as compare to control treatment (P0). The interaction between varieties, topping and growth retardant treatments exhibited non-significant impact on protein content in root tuber are presented in Table 2. The data indicated that maximum values of protein content in root tubers in V4 – Chhattisgarh Sarkarkand Priya in combination with different topping and plant growth retardant treatments over rest of the combinations. The interaction among V4T0 P1i.e when cycocel 500ppm was applied at 60 and 80 DAP as foliar spray (4.67 %) followed by V4 T1 P1 i.e when topping at 60 DAP and cycocel 500ppm as foliar spray at 60 and 80 DAP. The minimum protein content in root tubers was recorded in V2 T0 P0 i.e when no topping and without cycocel 500ppm as foliar spray at 60 and 80 DAP. The increment in protein content due to plant growth retardant. Similar results are observed by Rodrigues et al. (2016); Samy et al. (2014); Kamal et al. (2013).\r\nVitamin ‘C’ in root tuber (mg/100 g). The data vitamin ‘C’ in root tuber as influenced by varieties, topping and plant growth retardant are presented in Table 1. The variety Sree Rethna (V3) showed maximum of vitamin ‘C’ content in root tubers (26.49 mg 100 g-1) followed by Indira Nandani (V2) (18.00 mg 100 g-1). However minimum value of vitamin ‘C’ content in root tubers was noticed in Chhattisgarh Sarkarkand Priya (V4) (11.23 mg 100 g-1) .Topping among, T0 i.e control (No topping) obtained higher vitamin ‘C’ content in root tuber (.43 mg 100 g-1) followed by T2 i.e topping at 80 DAP while the lower vitamin ‘C’ content in root tuber was noted under treatment T1i.e topping at 60 DAP (17.88mg 100 g-1). As regards, plant growth retardant, perusal of data indicated that treatment P1 i.e cycocel 500ppm as foliar spray at 60 and 80 DAP recorded significantly maximum vitamin ‘C’ content in root tuber (18.59mg 100 g-1) as compare to control treatment (P0). The interactions among varieties, topping and growth retardant treatments exhibited non-significant impact on vitamin ‘C’ content are presented in Table 2. The interactions between V3T0 P1 i.e cycocel 500ppm as foliar spray at 60 and 80 DAP produced maximum vitamin ‘C’ content (28.32mg 100 g-1) followed by V3T1 P1 i.e when topping at 60 DAP and cycocel 500ppm as foliar spray at 60 and 80 DAP among different treatments. The significant improvement in ascorbic acid content due varieties, topping and plant growth retardant may be attributed to combine effect of treatments. Similar observation was documented by Mitra (2012); Yildirim et al. (2011).\r\nTotal sugar content in root tuber (%). The data on total sugar content in root tuber as influenced by varieties, topping and plant growth retardant treatments are presented in Table 1. The variety Chhattisgarh Sarkarkand Priya (V4) showed maximum of total sugar content in root tuber (4.97 %) followed by Indira Madhur (V1) (3.47%). However protein content in root tuber was noticed in Indira Nandini (V2) (2.68 %). Among topping, treatments during the investigation significant maximum total sugar content was recorded in T1 i.e topping at 60 DAP (4.24 %) followed by T2 i.e topping at 80 DAP. The minimum total sugar content was noticed in T0 i.e control (No topping) (3.49 %). As regards, plant growth retardant, perusal of data indicated that treatment P1 i.e cycocel 500ppm as foliar spray at 60 and 80 DAP recorded Significantly maximum sugar content in root tuber (4.18 %) as compare to control treatment (P0). The interaction between varieties, topping and growth retardant treatments exhibited non-significant impact on protein content in root tuber are presented in Table 2. The data indicated that maximum values of protein content in root tubersin V4 – Chhattisgarh Sarkarkand Priya in combination with different topping and plant growth retardant treatments over rest of the combinations. The interaction among V4T0 P1 i.e when cycocel 500ppm was applied at 60 and 80 DAP as foliar spray (4.67 %) followed by V4 T1 P1 i.e when topping at 60 DAP and cycocel 500ppm as foliar spray at 60 and 80 DAP. The minimum protein content in root tubers was recorded in V2 T0 P0 i.e when no topping and without cycocel 500ppm as foliar spray at 60 and 80 DAP. The improvement in total sugar content may be due to combine effect of varieties, topping and plant growth retardant treatments. Similar results are obtained by Lai et al. (2014); Kamal et al. (2013); Rose and Vasanthakaalam (2011); Suraji et al. (2013).\r\n','Khusboo Sahu, Vijay Kumar, Jitendra Singh, Sunna Deepti and S.S. Porte (2022). Effect of Varieties, Topping and Plant Growth Retardant on Qualitative characters of Sweet Potato (Ipomoea batatas L.) under Agro-climatic Condition of Chhattisgarh Plains. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 14(2): 384-388.'),(4864,'125','Incidence of Major Acid Lime Diseases in Tamil Nadu and Ecofriendly Management of Bacterial Canker caused by Xanthomonas axonopodis pv. citri in var. PKM 1','Vijayasamundeeswari A.*, M. Prabhu and B. Rex','68 Incidence of Major Acid Lime Diseases in Tamil Nadu and Ecofriendly Management of Bacterial Canker caused by Xanthomonas axonopodis pv. citri in var. PKM 1 Vijayasamundeeswari A.pdf','',1,'Roving and fixed plot surveys were conducted for three consecutive years from 2011 – 2014 to study the incidence and intensity of major diseases in acid lime grown in Tamil Nadu. The diseases viz., canker, twig blight, stem end rot, gummosis, citrus greening and citrus yellow mosaic virus were recorded through roving survey in the acid lime orchards of Coimbatore, Dindigul, Madurai, Tirunelveli, Virudhunagar and Theni districts of Tamil Nadu. It was observed that the incidence of canker was high in the orchards where the canopy management was poor with interlocking of branches and dense growth of foliage. In the old and uncared orchards with dense canopy, twig blight, gummosis and drying of the entire tree were also recorded. Citrus Yellow Mosaic Virus was recorded as a new incidence in Palakkanuthu village of Dindigul district in variety Balaji. The fixed plot survey conducted at Horticultural College and Research Institute, Periyakulam in twenty acid lime trees of PKM1 variety revealed the incidence of twig blight, gummosis, bacterial canker and citrus greening. It was also observed that the diseases occurring throughout the year in the fixed plot were twig blight, bacterial canker and citrus greening with the expression of greening being high during January to March. Gummosis was recorded from November to March with severe oozing during February and March. \r\nManagement trial conducted for bacterial canker (Xanthomonas auxonopodis p.v. citri) for three consecutive years revealed that, pruning followed by five consecutive foliar sprays starting with streptocycline (100ppm) + copper oxychloride (0.3%) as the first spray followed by NSKE (5%) as the second spray at thirty days interval was highly significant in reducing the intensity of bacterial canker (6.97 PDI) and yielded 24.61 kg/ tree/year when compared with the control. As an alternative to chemical, biological management consisting of pruning followed by five consecutive foliar sprays starting with talc based formulations of Pseudomonas fluorescens (Pf1) (0.5%) + Burkholderia gladioli TNAU1 (0.5%) as the first spray followed by NSKE (5%) as the second spray at thirty days interval was effective in reducing the intensity of canker to 10.00 PDI and recorded a yield of 21.02 kg/tree/year and was the second best. \r\n','Acid lime diseases, survey, bacterial canker, Burkholderia gladioli TNAU1, Pseudomonas fluorescens (Pf1), NSKE','-','INTRODUCTION\r\nAcid lime is an important commercial fruit crop in India which is cultivated in 2.96 lakh hectares with an annual production of 33.97 lakh tonnes during 2018-19 (Anon, 2020). In the Citrus group next to mandarin and sweet orange, it is widely grown in India contributing to its economy. The area under acid lime in Tamil Nadu is 11,069 hectares with an annual production of 15,657 tonnes during 2019-20 (Anon., 2022). The crop is gaining momentum in its large scale cultivation throughout Tamil Nadu other than the traditionally cultivated areas. However, there are many constraints which contribute to the low performance of the crop inspite of its importance, fetching very low price to the farmers/stakeholders. Diseases caused by fungi, bacteria, phytoplasma and virus pose the major constraint and cause considerable loss. Since the acreage of acid lime is expanding in Tamil Nadu, the need to keep a record of the diseases and the trend of occurrence of the major and minor diseases becomes obligatory.\r\nBacterial canker caused by Xanthomonas axonopodis p.v. citri (Hasse) Vauterin (Xac) is one of the major diseases in which the canker affected fruits lose their market value due to the cankerous growth on the fruit surface. The causal organism is a Gram- negative rod shaped bacterium, measuring 1.5 – 2.0 × 0.5 – 0.75 mm with a single polar flagellum and is an obligatory aerobic at temperature range from 28°C to 30°C. The climatic fluctuations prevailing in the last few decades keep exerting drastic effects on crop growth and these altered environmental conditions have the potential to elevate the incidence, intensity and disease epidemics pressure on the crop. There is no cure for the disease and resistance cannot be genetically introgressed by breeding. This is especially the case where tropical storms are prevalent (Das, 2003; Raza et al., 2014). Pria et al. (2006) has registered that the disease is greatly influenced by environmental factors. Since the disease occurs severely in acid lime, timely prediction is essential to manage the disease without much loss in the yield. In Brazil, the major diseases affecting Citriculture were canker, variegated chlorosis, and Huanglongbing (HLB), caused by Xanthomonas citri, Xylella fastidiosa and Candidatus Liberibacter respectively and due to the inefficacy of the current eradication program Citrus canker has re-emerged as the major disease (Mendonca et al., 2017). \r\nPruning of affected twigs before the onset of monsoon and spraying with 1% Bordeaux mixture can effectively control the disease (Ramakrishnan, 1954). Rangasamy et al., (1959) reported that spraying streptomycin sulphate 1000 ppm thrice at fortnightly intervals during rainy season effectively controls the disease. Antagonistic activity of selected Pseudomonads bacterial strains against X. axonopodis pv. citri carried out in the laboratory and greenhouse conditions showed that all bacterial strains were inhibitory to the pathogen through their various antagonistic activities (Khodakaramian et al., 2008). Decline in the canker incidence was recorded at 20 days after a single spray of the aqueous suspension (2.7 × 109 cells/ml) of Bacillus subtilis (S-12) during the peak season for the disease especially in July indicating that the spore forming bacteria might have taken over on the leaf surfaces of the plants reducing the disease (Das et al., 2014).\r\nThis study was undertaken to record the major diseases occurring in Tamil Nadu through roving survey and to correlation the weather parameters with the incidence of diseases through fixed plot survey. Since bacterial canker is a major problem in the acid lime cultivation which is very severe after the windy rains, this investigation also aims to develop an effective ecofriendly management strategy using chemicals and bioagents. \r\nMATERIALS AND METHODS\r\nRoving survey. The major acid lime cultivated areas in Tamil Nadu were surveyed for the incidence and intensity of different diseases. The districts, namely Madurai, Coimbatore, Theni, Tirunelveli and Virudhunagar were surveyed extensively. In each district five fields were selected for evaluation of the disease incidence. The diseases were recorded based on the symptoms on leaves, twigs, branches and fruits in each field by walking across starting from Southwest corner to Northeast corner. The grading scale of (0 – 9) was adopted for twig blight and bacterial canker. Based on the grade the severity or Percent Disease Index (PDI) was calculated using Mckinney, (1923) infection index.\r\n \r\nFor the diseases viz., stem end rot, gummosis, greening, CYMV the per cent incidence (PI) was calculated as follows\r\n \r\nFixed plot survey. Twenty acid lime trees of PKM1 variety were selected in Horticultural College and Research Institute, Periyakulam. The major economically important diseases of the locality were studied by recording the incidence and intensity of the diseases at 15 days interval. The incidence (%) and severity (PDI) for the diseases were calculated as mention in the roving survey. The weather conditions preceding the observations were recorded. The incidence and severity of various diseases was correlated with weather parameters using multiple regression analysis. \r\nManagement of bacterial canker. Field trial was conducted in the orchard at Horticultural College and Research Institute, Periyakulam under natural disease condition in the cultivar PKM1 for three successive years (2011 – 12, 2012 – 13 and 2013 – 14). Pruning followed by five consecutive spraying after the onset of monsoon at 30 days interval was followed for all the treatments. The design followed was randomised block design with seven treatments and three replications. The observations were recorded on four plants per replication (20 leaves/plant selected randomly) based on the grading system (0-9 scale) and the PDI was assessed for the treatments after the last spray. The following treatments were imposed in the trial.\r\nT1: Foliar application of neem seed kernel extract (NSKE) 5%\r\nT2: Foliar application of copper oxychloride (COC) (0.3%) + streptocycline (100 ppm)\r\nT3: Foliar application of COC (0.3%) + streptocycline (100 ppm) + NSKE 5% \r\nT4: Foliar application of talc based formulation of Pseudomonas fluorescens (Pf1) (0.5%) + NSKE 5% \r\nT5: Foliar application of talc based formulation of Burkholderia gladioli TNAU1 (0.5%) + NSKE 5%\r\nT6: Foliar application of talc based formulation of P. fluorescens (Pf1) (0.5%) + B. gladioli TNAU1 (0.5%) + NSKE 5% \r\nT7: Control (Untreated check)\r\nThe cultures of Pseudomonas (Pf1) and B. gladioli TNAU1 was obtained from the culture collection of the Department of Plant Pathology, Tamil Nadu Agricultural University, Coimbatore and used in this study. The antagonistic bacteria, P. fluorescens (Pf1) and B. gladioli TNAU1 exhibited antagonism against Xac when tested in vitro through dual plate technique. Hence, they were used in the experiment to evolve an ecofriendly measure alternative to the chemical methods used. \r\nRESULTS AND DISCUSSION\r\nA. Roving survey\r\nRoving survey conducted for three consecutive years from 2011 – 2014 in acid lime growing areas of Tamil Nadu revealed the occurrence of canker, twig blight, stem end rot, gummosis, citrus greening and citrus yellow mosaic virus. It was observed that the incidence of canker was high in the orchards where the canopy management was poor with interlocking of branches and dense growth of foliage in the surveyed areas. Goto, (1992) has recorded severe foliage infection and defoliation leading to bare twigs resulting in almost complete loss. The disease caused heavy losses when the infection occurred at early stages of plant growth (Gupta and Sharma, 2008). Bock et al., (2005) observed that once the disease was established the most important ways of dispersal were rain splash and wind. In the studies conducted by Singh et al., (2014), the canker incidence in nurseries varied from 17.0 to 63.0 per cent and in orchard from 13.0 to 42.0 per cent in the citrus growing areas of Hoshiarpur, Faridkot, Ludhiana and Fazilka districts of Punjab. \r\nIncidence of gummosis caused by Phytophthora nicotinanae was recorded at Periyakulam of Theni district during the survey conducted. In other areas gummosis infection accompanied with dieback, bark and wood splitting was caused due to Botryodiplodia theobromae. In both the cases, the affected tree exhibited slow decline after one or two years if left without proper management. In India, gummosis has been reported in every citrus growing area. Ramakrishnan, (1954) reported the susceptibility of Sathugudi, Jamberi, grapefruit, mandarin and acid lime to Phytophthora under South Indian conditions. Chengu Reddy et al., (1999) has stated that one of the causal organisms of acid lime root rot in Andra Pradesh was Phytophthora spp. Slow decline in acid lime due to bark and wood splitting disease caused by Botryodiplodia theobromae was observed (3.5 – 10 %) in old gardens effecting the longevity and yield of the tree (Gopal et al., 2005). A survey conducted at Oman showed prevalence of dieback symptoms in 8.8% of acid limes and in 15.9% of sweet limes. It was also observed that some of the acid limes (3.0%) and sweet limes (3.5%) suffered from gummosis at the trunk base. Isolations from bark and root samples obtained from diseased acid lime and sweet lime trees showed association of 19 fungal species with these plants, with Lasiodiplodia hormozganensis, L. theobromae and Fusarium solani being the most common (Al-Sadi et al., 2014). Singh et al., (2014) has reported that twig blight, gummosis and drying of the entire tree were observed in old and uncared orchards with dense canopy. \r\nIn the present study, Citrus Yellow Mosaic Virus (CYMV) was recorded as a new incidence in Palakkanuthu village of Dindigul district in the variety Balaji where the planting material was procured from nurseries at Andhra Pradesh. The survey conducted by Gosh et al., (2007) in Central India revealed the incidence of yellow mosaic disease in three commercial citrus cultivars viz., Nagpur mandarin, mosambi sweet orange and acid lime in which 5.88 per cent incidence was recorded in acid lime. In the CYMV affected plants, leaves showed green areas with the severely infected leaves expressing green areas throughout the lamina. Moreover, the tree produced significantly less fruits which contained less juice and ascorbic acid content (Ahlawat et al., 1996). \r\nThe disease of concern to the acid lime farmers was greening during the investigation conducted which was recorded from various places and the highest occurrence was in Puliyangudi of Tirunelveli district. Schneider (1968) has reported that the infection being systemic causes small and upright leaves showing a variety of chlorotic patterns resembling those induced by zinc and iron deficiencies which are mostly secondary symptoms. Root systems are poorly developed with relatively few fibrous roots (Salibe and Cortez, 1966). In India, greening is widely distributed in all citrus growing states including North-eastern region, Bihar, West Bengal, Orissa, Maharashtra, Punjab, Andhra Pradesh, Kerala and several other areas where citrus is grown (Nariani et al., 1967; Raychaudhari et al., 1972). Survey conducted in the acid lime growing districts of Andhra Pradesh to study the incidence of diseases revealed the presence of bacterial canker (100 %), bark eruption (10.67 – 20.86 %), citrus greening (13.7 21.18 %), root rot (6.13 – 18.18%), twig blight (10.25 21.88 PDI) and longitudinal bark and wood disease (3.8 – 6.88%) (Nagalakshmi et al., 2014). On an average in the present study, the incidence of stem end rot, gummosis, greening and CYMV was 7.45 %, 11.32 %, 21.46 %, 0.1 % whereas the intensity of bacterial canker and twig blight was 22.50 PDI, 21.06 % respectively in the acid lime orchards of Coimbatore, Dindigul, Madurai, Tirunelveli, Virudhunagar and Theni districts of Tamil Nadu surveyed.\r\n\r\nB. Fixed plot survey\r\nThe diseases viz., twig blight, gummosis, bacterial canker and citrus greening were recorded in the fixed plot survey conducted at Horticultural College and Research Institute, Periyakulam in the var PKM 1. The incidence of twig blight, bacterial canker and citrus greening diseases was recorded throughout the year. Though greening was present throughout the year due to its systemic nature, the symptom expression was high from January to March. Gummosis was recorded from January to March. The incidence ranged from 6.12 to 12.97 for twig blight, 2.46 to 8.49 for canker, 0.00 to 28.33 for gummosis and 86.67 to 93.33 for greening. The correlation coefficient analysis among the weather parameters and the incidence of the diseases is \r\npresented in Table 4. The regression analysis for the pooled data from 2011 – 2014 shows that total impact of weather parameters (maximum temperature, minimum temperature, relative humidity, rainfall and wind velocity) on the development of twig blight, canker and gummosis was 43 %, 83 % and 75 % respectively. During the disease rating period, significant negative correlation existed between maximum temperature and the occurrence of canker which was best explained by the linear regression in Table 5. The influence of minimum temperature, relative humidity, rainfall and wind velocity on the occurrence of canker was non significant. The occurrence of gummosis was significantly influenced by the minimum temperature. The weather factors taken into consideration did not influence the occurrence of twig blight. Studies conducted by Raza et al., (2014) depicted that compared to relative humidity, rainfall and wind speed, air temperature (maximum and minimum) are biologically more important for the survival of Xac in citrus nurseries as well as orchards which is in accordance with the present study. The quantitative study of disease development through correlation coefficient and linear regression analysis helps to predict the occurrence and progress of the diseases with the existing scenario of climate change, as timely prediction of the disease becomes a prime component of management by imposing prophylactic measures thereby reducing the cost of cultivation for the farmer.\r\nC. Management of bacterial canker\r\nThe results of the management trial conducted during the consecutive years from 2011 – 14 revealed that pruning followed by five consecutive foliar sprays starting with streptocycline (100ppm) + COC (0.3%) as the first spray followed by NSKE (5%) as the second spray at thirty days interval was highly significant in reducing the intensity of bacterial canker (6.97 PDI) with the yield being 24.61 kg/tree/year. As an alternative to chemicals, biological management consisting of pruning followed by five consecutive foliar sprays starting with talc based formulations of \r\nP. fluorescens (Pf1) (0.5%) + B. gladioli TNAU1 (0.5%) as the first spray followed by NSKE (5%) as the second spray at thirty days interval was effective in reducing the intensity of canker (10.00 PDI) and recorded an yield of 21.02 kg / tree / year when compared with the untreated control recording 21.00 PDI canker intensity and yield of 16.65 kg / tree / year. Investigation conducted by Behlau, 2008 in a commercial citrus orchard in Southern Brazil on the effect of copper application against bacterial canker revealed that copper application significantly reduced canker damage to foliage and fruit thereby increased the fruit yield. He also explained that incidence and severity on the leaves were inversely related to the number of fruits harvested per tree and directly related to the number of fruits abscised per tree. Cultural practices in combination with the recommended chemical or biological control measures are needed for canker free cultivation. Foliar application of streptomycin sulphate + copper oxychloride given three times a year before the onset of monsoon was suggested by Jadeja et al., (2000) against canker infection. However, Bal and Dhiman, (2006) have reported that integrated management of canker (caused by X. axonopodis pv. citri) - scab (incited by Elsinoe fawcetii) complex involving the cultural control practices including covering the nursery with nylon net, providing shelterbelt with Hessian cloth and removing the diseased foliage were effective in reducing the development of these diseases. Further, Savitha, et al., (2016) have recorded that, sanitation and pruning followed by spraying of streptomycin sulphate (500 ppm) + COC (3g L−1) were effective with 30 PDI canker intensity and were on par with crop sanitation followed by Bordeaux mixture (1%) spray followed by bacterinashak (0.5g per l) and P. fluorescens (5g per l) spray with 32.17 PDI canker intensity. \r\nThe application of NSKE 5% for canker control can also control the leaf minor damage thereby indirectly reducing the canker incidence. When plant tissues are disrupted by wounds or by the feeding galleries of the Asian leaf miner (Phyllocnistis citrella) internal leaf tissues are exposed which makes all cultivars and most citrus relatives that express some level of field resistance, also to become infected (Sharma and Sharma, 2008) and thus exacerbating the incidence of Citrus canker (Hall et al., 2010). Reddy and Paparao, (1960) observed that fortnightly spraying of 1 kg of neem cake in 20 litres of water in the rainy season increased the shoot and leaf growth and indirectly reduced the canker infection. Similarly, Negi et al., (2015) have reported that the neem and garlic were most effective plant extracts tested against bacterial canker. In addition, have also recorded that among the antibiotics the most effective were chloramphanicol, streptocyclin and tetracyclin. \r\nAcid lime is one of the important fruit crops of Tamil Nadu. The area under this crop is gradually increasing in recent years. However, the production is constrained by many factors. One such factor is the incidence of diseases causing severe losses not only in yield but also in the quality of fruits. Many fungi, bacteria and viruses are reported to infect acid lime. Through surverys, the newly emerging disease which will be of concern in the future can be monitored. Among the diseases causing economical loss in acid lime, bacterial canker is considered as a serious and fast spreading disease. The use of chemicals for the management of canker appears to be very effective in acid lime. However, minimizing the application of synthetic chemicals by replacing it with biological methods will leave the environment unharmed. Hence, the results of the study will promote the use of organic practices in the management of bacterial canker. \r\n','Vijayasamundeeswari A., M. Prabhu and B. Rex (2022). Incidence of Major Acid Lime Diseases in Tamil Nadu and Ecofriendly Management of Bacterial Canker caused by Xanthomonas axonopodis pv. citri in var. PKM 1. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 14(2): 389-395.'),(4865,'125','Effect of Irrigation Scheduling and Phosphorus Levels on Yield and Economics of Green gram (Vigna radiata L.)','Arman Riyaj Shamanji, Rajesh Singh and Thakur Indu','69 Effect of Irrigation Scheduling and Phosphorus Levels on Yield and Economics of Green gram _Vigna radiata L.pdf','',1,'At the Crop Research Farm, Department of Agronomy, SHUATS, Allahabad (U.P.). A field experiment was undertaken during the Zaid season (2021-22). The soil texture of experimental plot was sandy loam, soil pH 7.1, less in organic carbon (0.28 %), available N (225 kg/ha), available P (19.50 kg/ha) and available K (213.7 kg/ha). IR1 (Irrigation at 25DAS), IR2 (Irrigation at Vegetative Stage (35DAS)), IR3 (Irrigation at Vegetative(35DAS) and Pod Formation Stage (55DAS)) were different 3 irrigation scheduling, and (20 kg/ha), (40 kg/ha) and (60 kg/ha) were different 3 levels of Phosphorus. The experiment was conduct in Randomized Block Design with nine treatments and was repeated three times. The result displayed the application of Irrigation at Vegetative (35DAS) and Pod Formation(55DAS) +60Kg P/ha topmost plant height (41.70 cm) recorded in research, Number of nodules/plant (5.90), plant dry weight (11.00 g/plant), pods/plant (40.30 cm), number of seeds per pod (6.80), length of pod (8.40), test weight (36.00 g), grain yield (854.08kg/ha), straw yield (1928.70 kg/ha) and harvest index was non-significant. Highest Gross retunes (59017.7 INR/ha), Net retunes (37832.3INR/ha) and B:C ratio (1.78) also recorded in treatment 9 with apply Irrigation at Vegetative (35DAS) and Pod Formation(55DAS) +60Kg P/ha. Improper Irrigation scheduling and phosphorus application is bigger challenges for Indian farmers to decreases productivity of green gram. Presently the farmer they are given the irrigation as an when they give the water through the canal, there for due to over irrigation in field that they get less yield, but If we give irrigation scheduling in critical growth stages so we can save the number of irrigation and increase the yield of green gram. Application of higher levels of phosphorus was also showed maximum in growth and yield during such as root development, pod maturity, increases the weight of pods, dry weight and seeds per plant so that production can be increased. So that with combination of both irrigation scheduling and phosphorus level we can expect maximum production in green gram.','Irrigation, Growth, Yield, phosphorus, Zaid','On the basis of one season experimentation it can be concluded that with the application of Irrigation at Vegetative (35DAS) and Pod Formation (55DAS) + 60Kg P/ha was found significantly superior in Pods/plant (40.30), Seeds/pod (6.80), Test weight (36.00 g), Grain yield (854.08 kg/ha), Stover yield (1928.70 kg/ha)and economically viable (1.78) so this treatment is viable for farmers','-','Arman Riyaj Shamanji, Rajesh Singh and Thakur Indu (2022). Effect of Irrigation Scheduling and Phosphorus Levels on Yield and Economics of Green gram (Vigna radiata L.). Biological Forum – An International Journal, 14(2): 396-399.'),(4866,'125','Impact of Gibberellic Acid on Physiological Yield and Quality Attributes of Tomato (Lycopersicon esculentum Mill.) Underneath Semi-Arid Condition of Eastern U.P.','Vinod Singh, Vineeta Singh, Binayak P. Shahi, Naveen Singh and S.P.S. Somvanshi','70 Impact of Gibberellic Acid on Physiological Yield and Quality Attributes of Tomato _Lycopersicon esculentum Mill._ Underneath Semi-Arid Condition of Eastern U.P.pdf','',1,'The present study was conducted to observe the impact of gibberellic acid on physiological growth, yield & lycopene content of tomatoes in open field at Horticulture Farm of Krishi Vigyan Kendra Varanasi during (2020-21). The tomato Narendra Tomato-2 variety used for this experiment, Six treatments with four concentration levels of gibberellic acid (i.e. GA3; 15ppm, 30ppm, 45ppm, 60ppm) set in randomized block design (RBD) with 03 replication. The plants are sprayed at 20, 40, 60 days interval after transplanting. The outcome results shows that highest plant height, number of leaves, number of fruits, fruit weight, lycopene content, ascorbic acid & total soluble solids(TSS) was found maximum in GA3 60ppm, compare with unsprayed tomato plants. Our result indicates that spraying of GA3 with 60 ppm concentration is more economical & effective to boost the fruit set and qualitative production tomatoes in semi arid condition of eastern U.P.','Lycopersicon esculentum, phytohormone GA3, lycopene, ascorbic Acid, T.S.S.','It can be concluded that gibberellic acid considerably influenced the vegetative growth, quality, ascorbic acid, lycopene content & yield with the treatment GA3@60ppm. Among the various concentration treatments of GA3 applied on plants, because the tomato plants sprayed with GA3@60ppm exhibited most positive result in all the parameters relating to enlarged plant height, range of leaves, range of fruit, contemporary fruit weight, ascorbic acid, T.S.S. and lycopene content. Thus applying the plant growth regulators like GA3 revealing because the most promising PGR and with success improved the fruit size, growth and additionally keeping the quality of fruit which helps farmers in cultivating tomato in hostile/inauspicious climatic situation for the production of considerably good fruit yield (as today’s global demand) by increasing qualitative, vegetative and procreative growth & reducing flower/fruit drops','-','Vinod Singh, Vineeta Singh, Binayak P. Shahi, Naveen Singh and S.P.S. Somvanshi (2022). Impact of Gibberellic Acid on Physiological Yield and Quality Attributes of Tomato (Lycopersicon esculentum Mill.) Underneath Semi-Arid Condition of Eastern U.P.. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 14(2): 400-402.'),(4867,'125','Effect of Crude Tomato (Lycopersicon esculentum) Fruit Extract Against the Larvae of Dengue Vector – Aedes aegypti','Priyanka Spring, Sasya Nagar and Pradeep Kumar Shukla','71 Effect of Crude tomato _Lycopersicon esculentum_ fruit extract against the larvae of dengue vector – Aedes aegypti Pradeep Kumar Shukla.pdf','',1,'The principal vector of many prevalent tropical and sub tropical vector-borne communicable diseases like dengue, chikungunya, malaria, visceral leishmaniasis, Japanese encephalitis and filariasis across the globe are mosquitoes. They cause a number of deaths in the whole world every year. Therefore efficacious mosquito control is required in India and all over the world because due to the development of resistance against synthetic insecticides has caused alarming threats to mosquito control. Therefore, biological control is an alternative technique for the most challenging environmental quandaries and could provide environmentally safe cost-efficacious solution. The aim of the present study is to record the impact of the fruit extracts of Lycopersicon esculentum against first, second, third and fourth larval stages of dengue vector, Aedes aegypti, under the laboratory conditions. Mortality was visually examined for 24, 48 and 72 hours of exposure. The fruit extract exhibited promising larvicidal activity exhibiting 96.4% mortality, achieved at 40 ppm concentration level of fruit extract after 72 hours of exposure in the 1st instar and 2nd larvae of Aedes aegypti. The negative control showed much less mortality. Thus the present results of this study propose the crude fruit extract of Lycopersicon esculentum could possibly be utilized as an impeccable eco-amicable, safe and good biodegradable insecticide against the larvae of Aedes aegypti.','Lycopersicon esculentum, Aedes aegypti, Larvicidal activity, mortality, LC50, probit analysis','In the present study the effect of Lycopersicon esculentum fruit extract against dengue vector, Aedes aegypti was found to be highly effective as high mortality rates were observed probably due to the presence of secondary metabolites such as lycopene, phytoene, phytofluene, ascorbic acid and polyphenols including quercetin, kaempferol, naringenin which either in single form or in amalgamated form with other are responsible compounds for sundry larval death. The present investigation revealed that the fruit of Lycopersicon esculentum has a potential source of serviceable drugs due to the presence of phytoextracts like phytoene, lycopene having the highest concentration about 85%, phytofluene, ascorbic acid and pro-vitamin A, carotenoid β-carotenoid, polyphenols including quercetin, kaempferol, naringenin and can be utilized in the treatment of many diseases. The future scope studies are required to isolate the active component from the crude plant extract for opportune mosquito control management.','-','Priyanka Spring, Sasya Nagar and Pradeep Kumar Shukla (2022).Effect of Crude Tomato (Lycopersicon esculentum) Fruit Extract Against the Larvae of Dengue Vector – Aedes aegypti. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 14(2): 403-413.'),(4868,'125','Front Line Demonstration of IPM Approaches Against Yellow Stem Borer in Rabi Rice in Telangana','A. Ramulamma, T. Chaitanya, N. Kishore Kumar, E. Rambabu and S. Malathi','72 Front Line Demonstration of IPM Approaches Against Yellow Stem Borer in Rabi Rice in Telangana A.pdf','',1,'Front line demonstration of IPM approaches against Yellow stem borer in Rice was conducted by Krishi Vigyan Kendra, Malyal, during Rabi season of three years from 2017-18 to 2019-20 in Mahabubabad district, Telangana. Increased reliance on pesticides for pest control is found to be unsustainable and cost-ineffective. So, Integrated Pest Management (IPM) has been introduced as the best alternative for pest management in rice. for efficient use of Integrated Management Practices for minimizing the pest load and reducing the load of chemical pesticides in order to get higher yields and income, with the intention of popularizing integrated approaches against yellow stem borer in rice, front line demonstration was conducted. The Demonstration comprised of IPM approaches like application of carbofuran granules in nursery @ 160g/cent at 20DAS and in main field @ 25kg/ha at 15DAT, collection and destruction of egg masses, installation of pheromone traps with 5 mg lure @ 20 traps/ha against yellow stem borer for monitoring and need-based spraying of cartap hydrochloride @ 2gm/l against yellow stem borer of rice found effective against Farmers’ practice. In all the three years of study, adoption of IPM approaches resulted in lesser incidence i.e., 61.59%, 64.74% mean reduction of dead hearts and white ears than farmers’ practice. Mean higher yield of 7750 kg/ha was recorded in Demonstration as against 6750kg/h kg/ha in farmers’ practice showing 21.49% increase. This has resulted in higher mean net returns of Rs. 81,667/ha with Benefit Cost ratio (BCR) of 1.66 in Demonstration as against Rs. 71,867/ha in farmers’ practice with BCR of 1.42. Lower technology index showed the feasibility of the evolved technology at farmer’s fields. Extension gap (10.01) is higher compared to technology gap (2.43) and technology index (3.87), which shows that the technology may be popularized on large scale to lessen the extension gap.','Front line demonstration, grain yield, IPM, rice, stem borer','In rice Yellow stem borer management, IPM technology was found as imperative and the adoption of IPM technology increased the net income. There is need to adopt multipronged strategy that includes enhancing income of rice farmers through effective management of insect pest with the adoption of IPM technology. Hence, the technology might be promoted to moderate the extension gap. The economic, environmental, and social benefits derived from adoption of this important tool will have positive inference for the farmers.','-','A. Ramulamma, T. Chaitanya, N. Kishore Kumar, E. Rambabu and S. Malathi (2022). Front Line Demonstration of IPM Approaches Against Yellow Stem Borer in Rabi Rice in Telangana. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 14(2): 414-418.'),(4869,'125','Combining Ability Analysis for Grain Yield and Its Contributing Traits in Barley (Hordeum vulgare L.) Under Normal Irrigated Condition of Rajasthan','Madhu Yadav, Ved Prakash, Madhu Choudhary, S.S. Rajput, Sonu Get, Sarfraz Ahmad, Khushwant B. Choudhary and Shravan Kumar Sharma','73 Combining Ability Analysis for Grain Yield and Its Contributing Traits in Barley _Hordeum vulgare L.pdf','',1,'In recent years, the malt derived from the germinated barley is the key material for the malting represents the most economically favourable application for beer brewing. The main objective of barley breeding programmes is enriching yield and grain quality. Estimation of combining ability of the parents is essential to recognize better parental combinations that can yield useful cross combinations. It has been recognized from the prior studies that different parental combination perform non-traditionally i.e. superiority of different parental combination differ from cross to cross. Therefore, combining ability analysis is an appropriate way to fulfill this objective. The present research investigation was carried out with 10 parent half diallel set consisting of parents, F1’s and F2’s to estimate the general and specific combining ability variances and effects. Significance of GCA and SCA for all the studied characters in both the generations indicated the importance of both additive and non-additive gene action. An overall assessment showed that the parents RD 2508, RD 2052 and PL 419 appeared as good general combiners and the crosses DWRUB 64 × RD 2508 and RD 2592 × PL 419 appeared as good cross combinations for grain yield per plant and its contributing traits','Barley, combining ability, GCA, SCA, hybrids','An overall evaluation showed that the parent RD 2508, RD 2052 and PL 419 emerged as good general combiners while among the cross DWRUB 64 × RD 2508, RD 2592 × PL 419 and BH 946 × PL 419 emerged as good crosses for grain yield per plant as well as for other yield contributing characters. The additive gene action has been exploited more in barley, while the non-additive variance which is result of dominance and epistasis gene interaction remains to be used, which can be exploited for further improvement of barley crop through systematic breeding programme for the targeted environment. Overall evaluation of the results in the present investigation, suggested that appreciable improvement in barley production in forthcoming years would be realized through restricted recurrent selection (Hull, 1945), diallel selective mating (Jensen, 1970), use of the multiple crosses and bi-parental mating may be effective and alternative approaches for tangible advancement of barley yield in the coming years.','-','Madhu Yadav, Ved Prakash, Madhu Choudhary, S.S. Rajput, Sonu Get, Sarfraz Ahmad, Khushwant B. Choudhary and Shravan Kumar Sharma (2022). Combining Ability Analysis for Grain Yield and Its Contributing Traits in Barley (Hordeum vulgare L.) Under Normal Irrigated Condition of Rajasthan. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 14(2): 419-428.'),(4870,'125','Assessment of Genetic Variability for Fibre Yield and its Attributing Traits in Kenaf (Hibiscus cannabinus L.) under Multilocational Trials','Suvendu Kumar Roy, Bandan Thapa, S. Vishnupriya, S. Pavithra, Bijaya Sur, N. Umamaheshwar, Bilin Maying, Sahanob Nath, Avralima Sarkar, Lakshmi Hijam, Moumita Chakraborty, Rupsanatan Mandal, Dinesh Tulsiram Surje and Sanghamitra Rout','74 Assessment of Genetic Variability for Fibre Yield and its Attributing Traits in Kenaf _Hibiscus cannabinus L.pdf','',1,'Four major yield and fibre yielding-contributing traits were investigated in five Kenaf genotypes. The experiment was conducted in two years 2009 and 2011 laid out in Randomized Block Design with four replications. The superior kenaf variety HC-583 was used as a standard check. This Multilocational testing of advanced genotypes was conducted over two years to monitor the performance of newly created promising genotypes and phase out non-performing genotypes that donot match our criteria. As kenaf is not a mainstream fibre crop, so very less research work has been done to release a variety. Genetic parameters like variability, heritability, genetic advance were estimated and path analysis was done. For the traits under consideration, the test genotypes exhibited a wide range of variability. These traits also confirmed to have a significant heritability. In all the traits assessed, the (PCV) was shown to be greater than the (GCV). Basal diameter had the highest heritability, followed by plant height, while green weight and fibre yield had lowest heritability. Basal diameter and plant height showed significant heritability paired with strong genetic advances, implying that an additive gene was important in determining these traits. Plant height showed a high positive and significant association with green weight. As a result, simple selection on the basis of plant height can be used to improve this green weight and subsequently the fibre yield for the set of five kenaf genotypes under study. ','Phenotypic Coefficient of Variation, Genotypic Coefficient of Variation, Heritability, Genetic advance, Path analysis','Variability parameters are mandatory components that must be incorporated in a feasible crop improvement program for optimal selection. The results of the research showed that plant height was an important criterion to be considered in any selection procedure that would increase the fibre yield as in the present study the plant height was directly correlated with green weight. Increase in green weight also amounts to increase in fibre yield. Furthermore, the residual effect (0.27) in the path analysis implied that the four traits in the present study are insufficient to account for total variability. This suggests that in future line of work by the researchers, various other traits must be considered that would be directly or indirectly correlated with fibre yield for holistic conclusions not leaving any room for ambiguity.','-','Suvendu Kumar Roy, Bandan Thapa, S. Vishnupriya, S. Pavithra, Bijaya Sur, N. Umamaheshwar, Bilin Maying, Sahanob Nath, Avralima Sarkar, Lakshmi Hijam, Moumita Chakraborty, Rupsanatan Mandal, Dinesh Tulsiram Surje and Sanghamitra Rout (2022). Assessment of Genetic Variability for Fibre Yield and its Attributing Traits in Kenaf (Hibiscus cannabinus L.) under Multilocational Trials. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 14(2): 429-433'),(4871,'125','Applications and Perspectives of Epigenetics in Applied Biology and Biotechnology: A Review','Shubham Pandey, Harji Singh Malhotra, Purva Thakur, Daljeet Singh Dhanjal, Chirag Chopra and Reena Singh','75 Applications and Perspectives of Epigenetics in Applied Biology and Biotechnology A Review Reena Singh.pdf','',1,'Every cell in the human body or other eukaryotes contains precisely the same DNA as the original fertilized zygote. Different cells transcribe and translate different parts of the genome and differentiate stem cells into different types of specialized mature cells. So, here the role of the various phenomena that take part in the body is named epigenetics- \"Epi\" means upon or in addition with genetic function. In our body, all differentiation processes are driven and maintained/sustained by epigenetic mechanisms, excluding the B and T cells of the immune system. Eukaryotic genetic control via epigenome comprises DNA methylation, RNA mediated silencing and histone modifications. Cell differentiation is a complex process related to both intracellular and extracellular signals, so epigenetics has a crucial role during the differentiation process. Precedently, researchers have struggled to understand the complex molecular mechanism to regulating the different chronic diseases. With the advancement and evidences available indicates that epigenetics studies are significantly increasing our knowledge about different diseases and its application in diverse biological fields. Thus, this review primarily focuses on the genetic and epigenetic markers relation and their malfunctions relating to chronic diseases and epigenetic medicine to cure some epigenetic errors. Additionally, it also discusses about the role of epigenetic modifications in improving biofuelproduction.','Bioethanol,Cancer, Epigenetics, Genetics, Methylation','The continuous progress in molecular biology research shows the relation of environment impact on our gene regulation activity which regulates the organisms phenotype. The epigenome involvesnumerous molecular constituents like DNA methylation, non-coding RNAs, histone proteins, and their post-translational modifications. In Epigenetic mechanisms, each and every aspect of gene expression gets influenced, from gene accessibility in the chromosomal pool to post-transcriptional and transcriptional RNA modification and translation. Till date, broad spectrum of molecular players has been discovered as well as their role, involvement, and the variety of mechanisms involved, indicates that even seemingly simple metabolic pathways of gene regulation may show dynamic and complex operations. Therefore, for managing disease and to cure, it has become essential to understand the genetic and epigenetic roots of disease. Different chronic diseases are speculated to arise from genetic factors/markers interacting with or getting affected by either beneficial or harmful environmental agents. This background biological understanding of epigenetics involvement and its interaction with genetic markers enables us to understand the contribution of genetics and epigenetics in the development/research of individualized genomic and epigenomic profiling. Thus, leading forward in the direction to the creation of epigenetically inspired medicinal era/personalized medicine for diagnosing and treating a wide array of chronic diseases. Significant research is currently using an epigenetic modification to improve production of various bioengineered products such as bioethanol as well as in treating the different chronic disease. Moreover, it opens the path for exploration of different endeavor and prospects for deep and better understanding of changes occurring at gene level','-','Shubham Pandey, Harji Singh Malhotra, Purva Thakur, Daljeet Singh Dhanjal, Chirag Chopra and Reena Singh (2022). Applications and Perspectives of Epigenetics in Applied Biology and Biotechnology: A Review. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 14(2): 434-445.'),(4872,'125','Genetic Diversity Analysis in Pearl Millet (Pennisetum glaucum) Hybrids under Arid Region','Ravindra Kumar, P.C. Gupta, Sanjay Kumar Sanadya and Anil Kumar','76 Genetic Diversity Analysis in Pearl Millet _Pennisetum glaucum_ Hybrids under Arid Region Sanjay Kumar Sanadya.pdf','',1,'Selection plays the most important role in any successful crop improvement programme. The goal of this study was to determine the diversity of ninety pearl millet hybrids that were examined in RCB design at the ARS in Bikaner during the 2017 kharif season. The results found that hybrids were divided into nine groups, with cluster I having 43 hybrids, cluster III having 24 hybrids, and cluster II having 17 hybrids, while the remainder were unique. Cluster III had the greatest intra-cluster distance, whereas clusters II and IX had the greatest inter-cluster distance. RMS 7A × BIB 177, RMS 7A × BIB 12, RMS 7A × BIB 49, and RMS 7A × BIB 175 are high yielding hybrids that fall into three separate clusters: cluster I, cluster II, and cluster III. As a result, these various hybrids might be recommended for enhancing pearl millet yield and productivity in the dry zone.','Bajra, Diversity, Hybridization, Selection.','Maximum inter cluster value was found between cluster II and cluster IX followed by cluster II and cluster VIII. Maximum intra cluster value was found between cluster III followed by II and cluster I. Hybrids belonging to these different clusters may be recommended for diverse situation for sustainable production of pearl millet. Five high yielding hybrids namely RMS 7A × BIB 177, RMS 7A × BIB 68, RMS 7A X BIB 49, RMS 7A X BIB 175 and RMS 7A × BIB 12 were belonging to three clusters viz., cluster I, cluster II and cluster III. Out of these five hybrids, two hybrids, RMS 7A × BIB 68 and RMS 7A × BIB 49 belongs to cluster I, one hybrid RMS 7A × BIB 175 belongs to cluster II and two hybrids RMS 7A × BIB 177 and RMS 7A × BIB 12 belong to cluster III. These above mentioned diverse hybrids, therefore, can be recommended for increasing pearl millet production and productivity in arid zone. Identified hybrids in pearl millet using diversity studies can be evaluated in multi-environmental testing and developed as varieties','-','Ravindra Kumar, P.C. Gupta, Sanjay Kumar Sanadya and Anil Kumar (2022). Genetic Diversity Analysis in Pearl Millet (Pennisetum glaucum) Hybrids under Arid Region. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 14(2): 446-449.'),(4873,'125','Mapping and Change Detection Analysis of Agroforestry area in Ambala District of Haryana State, India using Geospatial Techniques','Bojja Harish Babu, Mothi Kumar K.E., Sandeep Arya, Bimlendra Kumari and Krishma Nanda','77 Mapping and Change Detection Analysis of Agroforestry area in Ambala District of Haryana State, India using Geospatial Techniques Bojja Harish Babu.pdf','',1,'Currently, agroforestry is a very common practice on land use in almost all developed and developing nations and sustainable research is devoted to the design, testing and dissemination of agroforestry techniques. Agroforestry systems not only satisfy the need for wood to wood-based Industries, but also contribute significantly to employment development and the reduction of atmospheric Carbon dioxide (CO2) vis-à-vis mitigating climate change. Mapping and change detection analysis of agroforestry area by using the LISS-III and LISS-IV Satellite Remote Sensing data in the Ambala district of Haryana has been undertaken to develop an operational method in the present article. Supervised classification method was used for Land-Use/Land-Cover analysis for the year 2000, 2005, 2010, 2015 and 2019 in which training sites for seven parameters viz, agroforestry (Poplar, Eucalyptus based), agriculture, plantations (Horticulture, Scrub plantations, miscellaneous plantations) water bodies, forest, buildups, riverbed areas were mapped. The maximum area was estimated under agroforestry systems i.e.1.71%, 2.37%, 4.7%, 7.84% and 9.8%, which includes both poplar and eucalyptus based Agri-silviculture and boundary systems for the year 2000, 2005, 2010, 2015, and 2019 respectively. Change detection analysis from 2000 to 2019 in the study showed that mainly agriculture, plantations and sizeable water bodies areas were converted to agroforestry. Satellite data for 2019 driving forces behind agroforestry changes have also been investigated by GPS (Global Positioning System) based Ground Truth verification.','Agroforestry, Remote sensing, Geospatial Techniques, Climate change, Global Positioning System. ','In order to harness the full potential of agroforestry, an accurate estimation of extent of area under agroforestry in the country is required. This can be done with the help of Geospatial technologies which includes Remote Sensing, GIS (Geographical Information System). This study concluded that agroforestry based systems in the district occupied maximum area along with agriculture and other classes. Poplar and eucalyptus based agroforestry systems occupied considerable area in Ambala and have significant contribution towards rising and increasing green cover in the state. The methodology adopted in this current study for mapping of agroforestry area using high resolution remote sensing data like LISS-IV yielded promising results. It was also concluded that with judicious use of Geospatial technologies, assessment of natural resources like agroforestry can be done accurately which will provide desired spatial information for planners and decision makers in the state. ','-','Bojja Harish Babu, Mothi Kumar K.E., Sandeep Arya, Bimlendra Kumari and Krishma Nanda (2022). Mapping and Change Detection Analysis of Agroforestry area in Ambala District of Haryana State, India using Geospatial Techniques. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 14(2):450-456.'),(4874,'114','Studies on Mass Emergence and Reproductive Behaviour of Bayadara indica Selys, 1853 (Odonata: Insecta) around Yamuna River at Village Dakpathar, District Dehradun, Uttarakhand, India','Gaurav Sharma','3 Studies on Mass Emergence and Reproductive Behaviour of Bayadara indica Selys, 1853 _Odonata Insecta_ around Yamuna River at Village Dakpathar, District Dehradun, Uttarakhand, India Dr. Gaurav Sharma.pdf','',4,'The studies on mass emergence and reproductive behaviour of Bayadara indica Selys, 1853 (Odonata: Insecta) around Yamuna River at village Dakpathar, District Dehradun, Uttarakhand, India was recorded in the month of June-July during 2020-21. Due to mass emergence the stretch of 50-100 m is dominated by this species. In the reproductive behaviour the Courtship is well marked and male demonstrate a circular territory with a radius of about 5-10 meters and defended it from the intruding intra or some inter specific male by warning signals like wing vibration or abdomen raising. As female entered into the territory, the male starts following her and forms a tandem link, catching hold of her prothorax by his anal appendages. The before wheel tandem lasted for 10-22 minutes and during this period intramale sperm translocation from the gonopore to the vesicular spermalis took place 2-3 times of 40-55 seconds duration. The courtship wheel lasts for about 12-18 minutes and is performed of perching on vegetation near the bank of river. After wheel tandem lasted for 07-09 minutes. Oviposition is endophytic among the aquatic vegetation and lasts for 05-09 minutes. The female in tandem uses her ovipositor to deposit eggs in the submerged vegetation near the bank of river. During oviposition the male in tandem and after release of grip hovers around the female, to defend her from intruding intra or inter specific males. The duration of reproductive behaviour lasts for 34-62 minutes.','Bayadara indica, Mass emergence, Reproductive behaviour, Yamuna river, Dakpathar, Dehradun, India','-','I. INTRODUCTION\r\nThe present day Odonata are among the largest living insects. They are amphibious hemi-matabolan insects having the aquatic egg and larval (nymph) stages, while the adults are terrestrial. The distribution of various groups and species of Odonata is highly variable. Some genera and species are widespread while others are highly local in their distribution. Some families are restricted to cool streams or rivers, others to ponds or still clear waters, and some to marshy places. The presence of dragonflies and damselflies may be taken as an indication of good ecosystem quality. \r\nThe Odonata exhibit two periods during their entire life: the pre-reproductive period and the reproductive period. The pre-reproductive period is the period in between emergence and reproduction. The main behaviour of a dragonfly during this period is: dispersal after emergence and feeding to help the teneral adults in becoming fully mature adults within a few days. Hence, the pre-reproductive period is also called maturation period. It does not mean that in the reproductive period, the dragonfly remains on fast. But together with the feeding behaviour the most spectacular phenomenon of this period are the different types of reproductive behaviour, which comprises territoriality, pre-copulatory tandem or before wheel tandem position, copulatory wheel formation, post copulatory tandem or after wheel tandem position and oviposition. The reproductive behaviour of Odonata comprises adult behaviour, which leads to successful mating and oviposition.\r\nThe Reproductive behaviour of odonates has been studied extensively by several workers including [1, 5, 8, 10, 11, 12, 18, 19, 30, 4, 6, 16, 20, 21 22, 29, 40, 41, 41, 3, 24, 37, 38, 2, 9, 13, 14, 23, 25, 26, 27, 28, 39, 31-36] etc. In the present study observations on mass emergence and on various aspects of the reproductive behaviour of Bayadara indica Selys, 1853 recorded around Yamuna River at village Dakpathar, District Dehradun, Uttarakhand, India.\r\nII. MATERIALS AND METHODS\r\nThe mass emergence and reproductive behaviour of Bayadara indica Selys, 1853 was studied four times around Yamuna River at village Dakpathar, District Dehradun, Uttarakhand, Indiahaving GPS coordinates 30.512610° N 77.833214°E in the month of June-July during 2020-21. Identification of adult individuals was carried out using identification keys provided by Fraser [17]. The wings of Adults of both sexes narrow, hyaline and male apices tipped with black, the hindwing not broader than forewing. Many pairs were observed in copulation. The Nikon Field binocular (30 × 25 DCF) and stop watch have been used for taking observations.\r\nIII. RESULTS AND DISCUSSION\r\nThe mass emergence and reproductive behaviour of Bayadara indica Selys, 1853 has been studied four times at study site on dated 27.06.2020, 04.07.2020, 19.06.2021 and 10.07.2021. The noticeable sexual dimorphism with a shining thorax black, marked with bright greenish-yellow stripes, wings apices black and abdomen black having mid-dorsal carina finely yellow from segment 1 to 8 in male, while females more robust than the male with shorter stouter abdomen, relatively longer wings without black apices made easy to keep a close watch on a species. Due to mass emergence the stretch of 50-100m is dominated by this species on the bank of river Yamuna. The observations on different activities, their duration and variabilities in the reproductive behaviour of Bayadara indica Selys, 1853 were recorded as below.\r\n(a) Territoriality: The males of Bayadara indica Selys, 1853 arrived at the rendezvous during 11:05 a.m. to 03:30 p.m., while the females appeared from the surrounding vegetation late during 11:40 a.m. to 03:00 p.m. The males after arrival perched on nearby vegetation on the banks of river Yamuna (Fig. 1). \r\n \r\nFig. 1. Territorial male.\r\nThe perch forms the centre of a circular territory with a radius of 05-10 meters, which was defended by the resident male from the intruding intra or some inter specific males. The resident male showed an aggressive abdomen raising display or by wing vibration against the conspecific and hetero specific male intruders. When disturbed it moves down stream with a strikingly flashing flight and soon coming back to same perch in the territory.\r\n(b) Before wheel tandem: As soon as the female arrived in the territory, the male started following her and after a short dual flight, got success to bind her in tandem link, catching hold her prothorax by its anal appendages. The pair in tandam flew to some nearby vegetation, where the male anchored the branch and the female hanged vertically. The pair in tandem changes perch 2-3 times to nearby vegetation. The before wheel tandem lasted for about 10-22 minutes (Fig. 2). This was the time when intramale sperm translocation, from the gonopore to the vesicula spermalis took place 2-3 times of 40-55 seconds duration at an interval of 1-2 minutes.\r\n \r\nFig. 2. Before wheel tandem.\r\n(c) Copulatory wheel position: After the completion of intramale sperm translocation, the male relaxed its abdomen and in tandem rest for 30-40 seconds, after this the male started bending its abdomen and also forced female to bend her abdomen to initiate process of wheel formation. The female then tried to interlock its vulvar region with the secondary copulatory apparatus of male by curling her abdomen forward to form the copulatory wheel (Fig. 3).\r\n \r\nFig. 3. Copulatory wheel position.\r\nAfter 2-3 attempts, the spectacular courtship wheel was formed. At the starting of the wheel position, an upward and downward motion of the male\'s abdomen has been noticed. If the wheel breaks in the process due to other conspecific males interfered or during change of perch, the pair in tandem formed the wheel again. The duration of the wheel position varied from 12-18 minutes. In single branch or perch the Copulatory Wheel pairs of 10-15 individuals observed due to dominance of this species in the study site due to mass emergence (Fig. 4). \r\n \r\nFig. 4. Many Copulatory wheel on single perch.\r\n(d). After wheel tandem: After breaking of the wheel, the male lowered the female and the female also grasped some vegetation by her legs (Fig. 5). After a rest of 02-05 minutes, the post copulatory flight was observed over the aquatic vegetation to choose the suitable spot for oviposition near the bank of Yamuna river and it lasted for 07-09 minutes.\r\n \r\nFig. 5. After wheel tandem.\r\n(e) Oviposition: The female of Bayadara indica Selys, 1853 oviposited endophytically among the aquatic plants and the eggs were laid in the tissue of leaf, petiole and stem. During oviposition the female hold the perch of plant and the male, just stayed in the air, balancing upon the prothorax of the female. The endophytic oviposition process on vegetation lasts for about 05-09 minutes. During oviposition the male in tandem and after release of grip hovers around the female, to defend her from intruding intra or inter specific males. The duration of reproductive behaviour lasts for 34-62 minutes. \r\n Darwin, (1859), stated in the “Origin of Species”, that sexual selection, “depends, not on a struggle for existence, but on a struggle between the males for possession of females [15], the result is not death to the unsuccessful competitors, but few or no offspring”. In odonates many different reproductive tactics have evolved to optimize the number of opportunities to successfully reproduce with females and the territorial behaviour, copulation and oviposition are carried out within or near the territory [7]. Several variation of the ovipositing behaviour exists in odonates, but the male has become territorial of these oviposition sites respective to its species [10].\r\nThe phenomenon of male territoriality amongst Zygoptera, is exhibited well in the damselflies of family Coenagriidae [37, 41], Calopterygidae [22, 42] and Protoneuridae [38]. Corbet [11] observed that aggressive behaviour of mature male odonates at the rendezvous was directed predominantly towards conspecific males, but in Bayadara indica Selys, 1853 males demonstrate aggressive behaviour against both conspecific and heterospecific males. During the present study in Bayadara indica Selys, 1853 the range of their territory is 05-10 meters is more as that of Ceriagrion coromandelianum and Pseudageion rubriceps 30-80cm [27] and in Pseudageion rubriceps 40-70cm [26]. The duration of copulatory wheel position was 12-18 minutes, which is more to the duration 03-08 minutes recorded for the other Coenagriidae species [26, 27] and the mating behaviour was similar to that of other zygopterans [6, 10, 29]. The endophytic oviposition by the female and the upright tandem posture adopted by the male during oviposition was quite similar to that described by Furtado [18, 30, 26, 27, 37, 39] for other species of Zygoptera. Hence, it reveals that the time period during reproductive activities observed for a particular event during present and previous studies may relatively changes with the inter or intraspecific interference, according to the habitats or by various environmental factors. Therefore, the long-term monitoring studies are required for different behavioural studies in different wetlands, riverine, reservoirs, marsh lands habitats for odonates.\r\n','Gaurav Sharma (2022). Studies on Mass Emergence and Reproductive Behaviour of Bayadara indica Selys, 1853 (Odonata: Insecta) around Yamuna River at Village Dakpathar, District Dehradun, Uttarakhand, India. International Journal of Theoretical & Applied Sciences, 14(1): 11-15. '),(4875,'114','Studies on Mass Emergence and Reproductive Behaviour of Bayadara indica Selys, 1853 (Odonata: Insecta) around Yamuna River at Village Dakpathar, District Dehradun, Uttarakhand, India','Gaurav Sharma','3 Studies on Mass Emergence and Reproductive Behaviour of Bayadara indica Selys, 1853 _Odonata Insecta_ around Yamuna River at Village Dakpathar, District Dehradun, Uttarakhand, India Gaurav Sharma.pdf','',4,'The studies on mass emergence and reproductive behaviour of Bayadara indica Selys, 1853 (Odonata: Insecta) around Yamuna River at village Dakpathar, District Dehradun, Uttarakhand, India was recorded in the month of June-July during 2020-21. Due to mass emergence the stretch of 50-100 m is dominated by this species. In the reproductive behaviour the Courtship is well marked and male demonstrate a circular territory with a radius of about 5-10 meters and defended it from the intruding intra or some inter specific male by warning signals like wing vibration or abdomen raising. As female entered into the territory, the male starts following her and forms a tandem link, catching hold of her prothorax by his anal appendages. The before wheel tandem lasted for 10-22 minutes and during this period intramale sperm translocation from the gonopore to the vesicular spermalis took place 2-3 times of 40-55 seconds duration. The courtship wheel lasts for about 12-18 minutes and is performed of perching on vegetation near the bank of river. After wheel tandem lasted for 07-09 minutes. Oviposition is endophytic among the aquatic vegetation and lasts for 05-09 minutes. The female in tandem uses her ovipositor to deposit eggs in the submerged vegetation near the bank of river. During oviposition the male in tandem and after release of grip hovers around the female, to defend her from intruding intra or inter specific males. The duration of reproductive behaviour lasts for 34-62 minutes.','Bayadara indica, Mass emergence, Reproductive behaviour, Yamuna river, Dakpathar, Dehradun, India','-','I. INTRODUCTION\r\nThe present day Odonata are among the largest living insects. They are amphibious hemi-matabolan insects having the aquatic egg and larval (nymph) stages, while the adults are terrestrial. The distribution of various groups and species of Odonata is highly variable. Some genera and species are widespread while others are highly local in their distribution. Some families are restricted to cool streams or rivers, others to ponds or still clear waters, and some to marshy places. The presence of dragonflies and damselflies may be taken as an indication of good ecosystem quality. \r\nThe Odonata exhibit two periods during their entire life: the pre-reproductive period and the reproductive period. The pre-reproductive period is the period in between emergence and reproduction. The main behaviour of a dragonfly during this period is: dispersal after emergence and feeding to help the teneral adults in becoming fully mature adults within a few days. Hence, the pre-reproductive period is also called maturation period. It does not mean that in the reproductive period, the dragonfly remains on fast. But together with the feeding behaviour the most spectacular phenomenon of this period are the different types of reproductive behaviour, which comprises territoriality, pre-copulatory tandem or before wheel tandem position, copulatory wheel formation, post copulatory tandem or after wheel tandem position and oviposition. The reproductive behaviour of Odonata comprises adult behaviour, which leads to successful mating and oviposition.\r\nThe Reproductive behaviour of odonates has been studied extensively by several workers including [1, 5, 8, 10, 11, 12, 18, 19, 30, 4, 6, 16, 20, 21 22, 29, 40, 41, 41, 3, 24, 37, 38, 2, 9, 13, 14, 23, 25, 26, 27, 28, 39, 31-36] etc. In the present study observations on mass emergence and on various aspects of the reproductive behaviour of Bayadara indica Selys, 1853 recorded around Yamuna River at village Dakpathar, District Dehradun, Uttarakhand, India.\r\nII. MATERIALS AND METHODS\r\nThe mass emergence and reproductive behaviour of Bayadara indica Selys, 1853 was studied four times around Yamuna River at village Dakpathar, District Dehradun, Uttarakhand, Indiahaving GPS coordinates 30.512610° N 77.833214°E in the month of June-July during 2020-21. Identification of adult individuals was carried out using identification keys provided by Fraser [17]. The wings of Adults of both sexes narrow, hyaline and male apices tipped with black, the hindwing not broader than forewing. Many pairs were observed in copulation. The Nikon Field binocular (30 × 25 DCF) and stop watch have been used for taking observations.\r\nIII. RESULTS AND DISCUSSION\r\nThe mass emergence and reproductive behaviour of Bayadara indica Selys, 1853 has been studied four times at study site on dated 27.06.2020, 04.07.2020, 19.06.2021 and 10.07.2021. The noticeable sexual dimorphism with a shining thorax black, marked with bright greenish-yellow stripes, wings apices black and abdomen black having mid-dorsal carina finely yellow from segment 1 to 8 in male, while females more robust than the male with shorter stouter abdomen, relatively longer wings without black apices made easy to keep a close watch on a species. Due to mass emergence the stretch of 50-100m is dominated by this species on the bank of river Yamuna. The observations on different activities, their duration and variabilities in the reproductive behaviour of Bayadara indica Selys, 1853 were recorded as below.\r\n(a) Territoriality: The males of Bayadara indica Selys, 1853 arrived at the rendezvous during 11:05 a.m. to 03:30 p.m., while the females appeared from the surrounding vegetation late during 11:40 a.m. to 03:00 p.m. The males after arrival perched on nearby vegetation on the banks of river Yamuna (Fig. 1). \r\n \r\nFig. 1. Territorial male.\r\nThe perch forms the centre of a circular territory with a radius of 05-10 meters, which was defended by the resident male from the intruding intra or some inter specific males. The resident male showed an aggressive abdomen raising display or by wing vibration against the conspecific and hetero specific male intruders. When disturbed it moves down stream with a strikingly flashing flight and soon coming back to same perch in the territory.\r\n(b) Before wheel tandem: As soon as the female arrived in the territory, the male started following her and after a short dual flight, got success to bind her in tandem link, catching hold her prothorax by its anal appendages. The pair in tandam flew to some nearby vegetation, where the male anchored the branch and the female hanged vertically. The pair in tandem changes perch 2-3 times to nearby vegetation. The before wheel tandem lasted for about 10-22 minutes (Fig. 2). This was the time when intramale sperm translocation, from the gonopore to the vesicula spermalis took place 2-3 times of 40-55 seconds duration at an interval of 1-2 minutes.\r\n \r\nFig. 2. Before wheel tandem.\r\n(c) Copulatory wheel position: After the completion of intramale sperm translocation, the male relaxed its abdomen and in tandem rest for 30-40 seconds, after this the male started bending its abdomen and also forced female to bend her abdomen to initiate process of wheel formation. The female then tried to interlock its vulvar region with the secondary copulatory apparatus of male by curling her abdomen forward to form the copulatory wheel (Fig. 3).\r\n \r\nFig. 3. Copulatory wheel position.\r\nAfter 2-3 attempts, the spectacular courtship wheel was formed. At the starting of the wheel position, an upward and downward motion of the male\'s abdomen has been noticed. If the wheel breaks in the process due to other conspecific males interfered or during change of perch, the pair in tandem formed the wheel again. The duration of the wheel position varied from 12-18 minutes. In single branch or perch the Copulatory Wheel pairs of 10-15 individuals observed due to dominance of this species in the study site due to mass emergence (Fig. 4). \r\n \r\nFig. 4. Many Copulatory wheel on single perch.\r\n(d). After wheel tandem: After breaking of the wheel, the male lowered the female and the female also grasped some vegetation by her legs (Fig. 5). After a rest of 02-05 minutes, the post copulatory flight was observed over the aquatic vegetation to choose the suitable spot for oviposition near the bank of Yamuna river and it lasted for 07-09 minutes.\r\n \r\nFig. 5. After wheel tandem.\r\n(e) Oviposition: The female of Bayadara indica Selys, 1853 oviposited endophytically among the aquatic plants and the eggs were laid in the tissue of leaf, petiole and stem. During oviposition the female hold the perch of plant and the male, just stayed in the air, balancing upon the prothorax of the female. The endophytic oviposition process on vegetation lasts for about 05-09 minutes. During oviposition the male in tandem and after release of grip hovers around the female, to defend her from intruding intra or inter specific males. The duration of reproductive behaviour lasts for 34-62 minutes. \r\n Darwin, (1859), stated in the “Origin of Species”, that sexual selection, “depends, not on a struggle for existence, but on a struggle between the males for possession of females [15], the result is not death to the unsuccessful competitors, but few or no offspring”. In odonates many different reproductive tactics have evolved to optimize the number of opportunities to successfully reproduce with females and the territorial behaviour, copulation and oviposition are carried out within or near the territory [7]. Several variation of the ovipositing behaviour exists in odonates, but the male has become territorial of these oviposition sites respective to its species [10].\r\nThe phenomenon of male territoriality amongst Zygoptera, is exhibited well in the damselflies of family Coenagriidae [37, 41], Calopterygidae [22, 42] and Protoneuridae [38]. Corbet [11] observed that aggressive behaviour of mature male odonates at the rendezvous was directed predominantly towards conspecific males, but in Bayadara indica Selys, 1853 males demonstrate aggressive behaviour against both conspecific and heterospecific males. During the present study in Bayadara indica Selys, 1853 the range of their territory is 05-10 meters is more as that of Ceriagrion coromandelianum and Pseudageion rubriceps 30-80cm [27] and in Pseudageion rubriceps 40-70cm [26]. The duration of copulatory wheel position was 12-18 minutes, which is more to the duration 03-08 minutes recorded for the other Coenagriidae species [26, 27] and the mating behaviour was similar to that of other zygopterans [6, 10, 29]. The endophytic oviposition by the female and the upright tandem posture adopted by the male during oviposition was quite similar to that described by Furtado [18, 30, 26, 27, 37, 39] for other species of Zygoptera. Hence, it reveals that the time period during reproductive activities observed for a particular event during present and previous studies may relatively changes with the inter or intraspecific interference, according to the habitats or by various environmental factors. Therefore, the long-term monitoring studies are required for different behavioural studies in different wetlands, riverine, reservoirs, marsh lands habitats for odonates.\r\n',' Gaurav Sharma (2022). Studies on Mass Emergence and Reproductive Behaviour of Bayadara indica Selys, 1853 (Odonata: Insecta) around Yamuna River at Village Dakpathar, District Dehradun, Uttarakhand, India International Journal of Theoretical & Applied Sciences, 14(1): 11-15. '),(4876,'114','Studies on Mass Emergence and Reproductive Behaviour of Bayadara indica Selys, 1853 (Odonata: Insecta) around Yamuna River at Village Dakpathar, District Dehradun, Uttarakhand, India','Gaurav Sharma','3 Studies on Mass Emergence and Reproductive Behaviour of Bayadara indica Selys, 1853 _Odonata Insecta_ around Yamuna River at Village Dakpathar, District Dehradun, Uttarakhand, India Gaurav Sharma.pdf','',4,'The studies on mass emergence and reproductive behaviour of Bayadara indica Selys, 1853 (Odonata: Insecta) around Yamuna River at village Dakpathar, District Dehradun, Uttarakhand, India was recorded in the month of June-July during 2020-21. Due to mass emergence the stretch of 50-100 m is dominated by this species. In the reproductive behaviour the Courtship is well marked and male demonstrate a circular territory with a radius of about 5-10 meters and defended it from the intruding intra or some inter specific male by warning signals like wing vibration or abdomen raising. As female entered into the territory, the male starts following her and forms a tandem link, catching hold of her prothorax by his anal appendages. The before wheel tandem lasted for 10-22 minutes and during this period intramale sperm translocation from the gonopore to the vesicular spermalis took place 2-3 times of 40-55 seconds duration. The courtship wheel lasts for about 12-18 minutes and is performed of perching on vegetation near the bank of river. After wheel tandem lasted for 07-09 minutes. Oviposition is endophytic among the aquatic vegetation and lasts for 05-09 minutes. The female in tandem uses her ovipositor to deposit eggs in the submerged vegetation near the bank of river. During oviposition the male in tandem and after release of grip hovers around the female, to defend her from intruding intra or inter specific males. The duration of reproductive behaviour lasts for 34-62 minutes.','Bayadara indica, Mass emergence, Reproductive behaviour, Yamuna river, Dakpathar, Dehradun, India','-','I. INTRODUCTION\r\nThe present day Odonata are among the largest living insects. They are amphibious hemi-matabolan insects having the aquatic egg and larval (nymph) stages, while the adults are terrestrial. The distribution of various groups and species of Odonata is highly variable. Some genera and species are widespread while others are highly local in their distribution. Some families are restricted to cool streams or rivers, others to ponds or still clear waters, and some to marshy places. The presence of dragonflies and damselflies may be taken as an indication of good ecosystem quality. \r\nThe Odonata exhibit two periods during their entire life: the pre-reproductive period and the reproductive period. The pre-reproductive period is the period in between emergence and reproduction. The main behaviour of a dragonfly during this period is: dispersal after emergence and feeding to help the teneral adults in becoming fully mature adults within a few days. Hence, the pre-reproductive period is also called maturation period. It does not mean that in the reproductive period, the dragonfly remains on fast. But together with the feeding behaviour the most spectacular phenomenon of this period are the different types of reproductive behaviour, which comprises territoriality, pre-copulatory tandem or before wheel tandem position, copulatory wheel formation, post copulatory tandem or after wheel tandem position and oviposition. The reproductive behaviour of Odonata comprises adult behaviour, which leads to successful mating and oviposition.\r\nThe Reproductive behaviour of odonates has been studied extensively by several workers including [1, 5, 8, 10, 11, 12, 18, 19, 30, 4, 6, 16, 20, 21 22, 29, 40, 41, 41, 3, 24, 37, 38, 2, 9, 13, 14, 23, 25, 26, 27, 28, 39, 31-36] etc. In the present study observations on mass emergence and on various aspects of the reproductive behaviour of Bayadara indica Selys, 1853 recorded around Yamuna River at village Dakpathar, District Dehradun, Uttarakhand, India.\r\nII. MATERIALS AND METHODS\r\nThe mass emergence and reproductive behaviour of Bayadara indica Selys, 1853 was studied four times around Yamuna River at village Dakpathar, District Dehradun, Uttarakhand, Indiahaving GPS coordinates 30.512610° N 77.833214°E in the month of June-July during 2020-21. Identification of adult individuals was carried out using identification keys provided by Fraser [17]. The wings of Adults of both sexes narrow, hyaline and male apices tipped with black, the hindwing not broader than forewing. Many pairs were observed in copulation. The Nikon Field binocular (30 × 25 DCF) and stop watch have been used for taking observations.\r\nIII. RESULTS AND DISCUSSION\r\nThe mass emergence and reproductive behaviour of Bayadara indica Selys, 1853 has been studied four times at study site on dated 27.06.2020, 04.07.2020, 19.06.2021 and 10.07.2021. The noticeable sexual dimorphism with a shining thorax black, marked with bright greenish-yellow stripes, wings apices black and abdomen black having mid-dorsal carina finely yellow from segment 1 to 8 in male, while females more robust than the male with shorter stouter abdomen, relatively longer wings without black apices made easy to keep a close watch on a species. Due to mass emergence the stretch of 50-100m is dominated by this species on the bank of river Yamuna. The observations on different activities, their duration and variabilities in the reproductive behaviour of Bayadara indica Selys, 1853 were recorded as below.\r\n(a) Territoriality: The males of Bayadara indica Selys, 1853 arrived at the rendezvous during 11:05 a.m. to 03:30 p.m., while the females appeared from the surrounding vegetation late during 11:40 a.m. to 03:00 p.m. The males after arrival perched on nearby vegetation on the banks of river Yamuna (Fig. 1). \r\n \r\nFig. 1. Territorial male.\r\nThe perch forms the centre of a circular territory with a radius of 05-10 meters, which was defended by the resident male from the intruding intra or some inter specific males. The resident male showed an aggressive abdomen raising display or by wing vibration against the conspecific and hetero specific male intruders. When disturbed it moves down stream with a strikingly flashing flight and soon coming back to same perch in the territory.\r\n(b) Before wheel tandem: As soon as the female arrived in the territory, the male started following her and after a short dual flight, got success to bind her in tandem link, catching hold her prothorax by its anal appendages. The pair in tandam flew to some nearby vegetation, where the male anchored the branch and the female hanged vertically. The pair in tandem changes perch 2-3 times to nearby vegetation. The before wheel tandem lasted for about 10-22 minutes (Fig. 2). This was the time when intramale sperm translocation, from the gonopore to the vesicula spermalis took place 2-3 times of 40-55 seconds duration at an interval of 1-2 minutes.\r\n \r\nFig. 2. Before wheel tandem.\r\n(c) Copulatory wheel position: After the completion of intramale sperm translocation, the male relaxed its abdomen and in tandem rest for 30-40 seconds, after this the male started bending its abdomen and also forced female to bend her abdomen to initiate process of wheel formation. The female then tried to interlock its vulvar region with the secondary copulatory apparatus of male by curling her abdomen forward to form the copulatory wheel (Fig. 3).\r\n \r\nFig. 3. Copulatory wheel position.\r\nAfter 2-3 attempts, the spectacular courtship wheel was formed. At the starting of the wheel position, an upward and downward motion of the male\'s abdomen has been noticed. If the wheel breaks in the process due to other conspecific males interfered or during change of perch, the pair in tandem formed the wheel again. The duration of the wheel position varied from 12-18 minutes. In single branch or perch the Copulatory Wheel pairs of 10-15 individuals observed due to dominance of this species in the study site due to mass emergence (Fig. 4). \r\n \r\nFig. 4. Many Copulatory wheel on single perch.\r\n(d). After wheel tandem: After breaking of the wheel, the male lowered the female and the female also grasped some vegetation by her legs (Fig. 5). After a rest of 02-05 minutes, the post copulatory flight was observed over the aquatic vegetation to choose the suitable spot for oviposition near the bank of Yamuna river and it lasted for 07-09 minutes.\r\n \r\nFig. 5. After wheel tandem.\r\n(e) Oviposition: The female of Bayadara indica Selys, 1853 oviposited endophytically among the aquatic plants and the eggs were laid in the tissue of leaf, petiole and stem. During oviposition the female hold the perch of plant and the male, just stayed in the air, balancing upon the prothorax of the female. The endophytic oviposition process on vegetation lasts for about 05-09 minutes. During oviposition the male in tandem and after release of grip hovers around the female, to defend her from intruding intra or inter specific males. The duration of reproductive behaviour lasts for 34-62 minutes. \r\n Darwin, (1859), stated in the “Origin of Species”, that sexual selection, “depends, not on a struggle for existence, but on a struggle between the males for possession of females [15], the result is not death to the unsuccessful competitors, but few or no offspring”. In odonates many different reproductive tactics have evolved to optimize the number of opportunities to successfully reproduce with females and the territorial behaviour, copulation and oviposition are carried out within or near the territory [7]. Several variation of the ovipositing behaviour exists in odonates, but the male has become territorial of these oviposition sites respective to its species [10].\r\nThe phenomenon of male territoriality amongst Zygoptera, is exhibited well in the damselflies of family Coenagriidae [37, 41], Calopterygidae [22, 42] and Protoneuridae [38]. Corbet [11] observed that aggressive behaviour of mature male odonates at the rendezvous was directed predominantly towards conspecific males, but in Bayadara indica Selys, 1853 males demonstrate aggressive behaviour against both conspecific and heterospecific males. During the present study in Bayadara indica Selys, 1853 the range of their territory is 05-10 meters is more as that of Ceriagrion coromandelianum and Pseudageion rubriceps 30-80cm [27] and in Pseudageion rubriceps 40-70cm [26]. The duration of copulatory wheel position was 12-18 minutes, which is more to the duration 03-08 minutes recorded for the other Coenagriidae species [26, 27] and the mating behaviour was similar to that of other zygopterans [6, 10, 29]. The endophytic oviposition by the female and the upright tandem posture adopted by the male during oviposition was quite similar to that described by Furtado [18, 30, 26, 27, 37, 39] for other species of Zygoptera. Hence, it reveals that the time period during reproductive activities observed for a particular event during present and previous studies may relatively changes with the inter or intraspecific interference, according to the habitats or by various environmental factors. Therefore, the long-term monitoring studies are required for different behavioural studies in different wetlands, riverine, reservoirs, marsh lands habitats for odonates.\r\n','Gaurav Sharma (2022). Studies on Mass Emergence and Reproductive Behaviour of Bayadara indica Selys, 1853 (Odonata: Insecta) around Yamuna River at Village Dakpathar, District Dehradun, Uttarakhand, India.International Journal of Theoretical & Applied Sciences, 14(1): 11-15.'),(4877,'125','Effects of Replacing Palm Oil With Rapeseed Oil on Fatty Acid Concentration of Broiler Chicken','Sudharsan Chinnasamy, Senthil Murugan S. and Sanis Juliet','78 Effects of Replacing Palm Oil With Rapeseed Oil on Fatty Acid Concentration of Broiler Chicken Sudharsan Chinnasamy.pdf','',1,'Dietary fatty acid composition in broiler influences carcass quality by altering fat deposition and fatty acid profile. The quality of the fatty acids profile and the levels of various nutrients reflect the components of the rations provided to the birds. Thus the study was carried out to evaluate the effect of incorporation of rapeseed oil in broiler ration on fatty acid concentration of carcass in broiler chicken. A 160 day-old straight run broilers (Vencobb 400) chicks were randomly allotted into four treatment groups with four replicates of ten chicks each (G1, G2, G3 and G4). The basal diets (G1) were prepared to meet Bureau of Indian Standards nutrient requirements (IS 1374; 2007) included at the rate of 1.5, 3, and 4.5 per cent in pre-starter, starter and finisher ration, respectively. The experimental broiler rations prepared with rapeseed oil replacing 25, 50 and 100 per cent of palm oil in basal diets in treatment groups. Six birds were randomly selected from each group and slaughtered on 42nd day to study fatty acid concentration of carcass.Saturated fatty acid (SFA) concentration is significantly higher (P<0.01)in breast and thigh muscles in G1 group birds and lowest in G4 group. Whereas, concentration of poly-unsaturated fatty acid (PUFA) in G3 and G4 group thigh muscles were significantly higher than the G1 group. Mono unsaturated fatty acid concentration was not significantly affected between the groups. Incorporation of rapeseed oil in broiler ration increases deposition of PUFA content in the broiler carcass with no adverse effects','Broiler chickens, Fatty acid, Poultry, Rapeseed oil, Palm oil.','From the results of this study, incorporation of rapeseed oil in broiler ration increases deposition of PUFA content in the broiler carcass with no adverse effect which is a desirable character of consumer’s preference. Thus, considering more availability and comparable cost of rapeseed oil, it is suggested that rapeseed oil could be included in broiler pre-starter, starter and finisher diet at 1.5, 3.0 and 4.5 % respectively as an energy source to increase PUFA composition which do favorable impact on consumer health.','-','Sudharsan Chinnasamy, Senthil Murugan S. and Sanis Juliet (2022). Effects of Replacing Palm Oil With Rapeseed Oil on Fatty Acid Concentration of Broiler Chicken. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 14(2): 457-460.'),(4878,'125','Stool Characteristics of Obese Dogs Fed on Therapeutic Diets with Altered Levels of Protein and Fibre','A. Abinaya, Pasupathi Karu, R. Karunakaran, Cecilia Joseph and R. Eazhisai','79 Stool Characteristics of Obese Dogs Fed on Therapeutic Diets with Altered Levels of Protein and Fibre A.pdf','',1,'24 Labrador retriever obese dogs of more than 3 years age were put in four different treatment groups. The percentage of crude protein and crude fibre of T1, T2, T3 and T4 diet were 15.74 % and 4.09 %; 21.90 % and 11.28 %; 21.73 % and 8.23 %; 15.72 % and 3.99 %, respectively. Including high fibre in the diet affects the stool characeristics. This study aimed to find out the safe level of fibre to promote weight loss without affecting the stool characteristics. The stool score was lowest in dogs in T2 (2.16 ± 0.16 to 2.83 ± 0.16). The frequency of defecation had no significant difference among the treatments. The frequency of defecation was higher in T2 with mean frequency of 1.66 ± 0.21 to 1.83 ± 0.16, when compared with other groups. The pH of the stools was significantly different between the treatments. Higher acidic pH was noticed in T2 (4.91 ± 0.20 to 5.25 ± 0.17) followed by T3, T4 and T1.The present study showed no incidence of diarrhea throughout the trial period in any group','High fibre, Stool score, dogs, defecation frequency, pH, Obesity','The stool scores and pH were found to be significantly decreased in T2 with no incidence of diarrhea with this level of fibre till the end of the trial. This study concludes that fibre level of up to 11.2 % can be safely included in the obese dog’s diet without affecting its overall health status.','-','A. Abinaya, Pasupathi. Karu, R. Karunakaran, Cecilia Joseph and R. Eazhisai (2022). Stool Characteristics of Obese Dogs Fed on Therapeutic Diets with Altered Levels of Protein and Fibre. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 14(2): 461-463.'),(4879,'114','Studies on Mass Emergence and Reproductive Behaviour of Bayadara indica Selys, 1853 (Odonata: Insecta) around Yamuna River at Village Dakpathar, District Dehradun, Uttarakhand, India','Gaurav Sharma','3 Studies on Mass Emergence and Reproductive Behaviour of Bayadara indica Selys, 1853 _Odonata Insecta_ around Yamuna River at Village Dakpathar, District Dehradun, Uttarakhand, India Gaurav Sharma.pdf','',4,'The studies on mass emergence and reproductive behaviour of Bayadara indica Selys, 1853 (Odonata: Insecta) around Yamuna River at village Dakpathar, District Dehradun, Uttarakhand, India was recorded in the month of June-July during 2020-21. Due to mass emergence the stretch of 50-100 m is dominated by this species. In the reproductive behaviour the Courtship is well marked and male demonstrate a circular territory with a radius of about 5-10 meters and defended it from the intruding intra or some inter specific male by warning signals like wing vibration or abdomen raising. As female entered into the territory, the male starts following her and forms a tandem link, catching hold of her prothorax by his anal appendages. The before wheel tandem lasted for 10-22 minutes and during this period intramale sperm translocation from the gonopore to the vesicular spermalis took place 2-3 times of 40-55 seconds duration. The courtship wheel lasts for about 12-18 minutes and is performed of perching on vegetation near the bank of river. After wheel tandem lasted for 07-09 minutes. Oviposition is endophytic among the aquatic vegetation and lasts for 05-09 minutes. The female in tandem uses her ovipositor to deposit eggs in the submerged vegetation near the bank of river. During oviposition the male in tandem and after release of grip hovers around the female, to defend her from intruding intra or inter specific males. The duration of reproductive behaviour lasts for 34-62 minutes.','Bayadara indica, Mass emergence, Reproductive behaviour, Yamuna river, Dakpathar, Dehradun, India','-','I. INTRODUCTION\r\nThe present day Odonata are among the largest living insects. They are amphibious hemi-matabolan insects having the aquatic egg and larval (nymph) stages, while the adults are terrestrial. The distribution of various groups and species of Odonata is highly variable. Some genera and species are widespread while others are highly local in their distribution. Some families are restricted to cool streams or rivers, others to ponds or still clear waters, and some to marshy places. The presence of dragonflies and damselflies may be taken as an indication of good ecosystem quality. \r\nThe Odonata exhibit two periods during their entire life: the pre-reproductive period and the reproductive period. The pre-reproductive period is the period in between emergence and reproduction. The main behaviour of a dragonfly during this period is: dispersal after emergence and feeding to help the teneral adults in becoming fully mature adults within a few days. Hence, the pre-reproductive period is also called maturation period. It does not mean that in the reproductive period, the dragonfly remains on fast. But together with the feeding behaviour the most spectacular phenomenon of this period are the different types of reproductive behaviour, which comprises territoriality, pre-copulatory tandem or before wheel tandem position, copulatory wheel formation, post copulatory tandem or after wheel tandem position and oviposition. The reproductive behaviour of Odonata comprises adult behaviour, which leads to successful mating and oviposition.\r\nThe Reproductive behaviour of odonates has been studied extensively by several workers including [1, 5, 8, 10, 11, 12, 18, 19, 30, 4, 6, 16, 20, 21 22, 29, 40, 41, 41, 3, 24, 37, 38, 2, 9, 13, 14, 23, 25, 26, 27, 28, 39, 31-36] etc. In the present study observations on mass emergence and on various aspects of the reproductive behaviour of Bayadara indica Selys, 1853 recorded around Yamuna River at village Dakpathar, District Dehradun, Uttarakhand, India.\r\nII. MATERIALS AND METHODS\r\nThe mass emergence and reproductive behaviour of Bayadara indica Selys, 1853 was studied four times around Yamuna River at village Dakpathar, District Dehradun, Uttarakhand, Indiahaving GPS coordinates 30.512610° N 77.833214°E in the month of June-July during 2020-21. Identification of adult individuals was carried out using identification keys provided by Fraser [17]. The wings of Adults of both sexes narrow, hyaline and male apices tipped with black, the hindwing not broader than forewing. Many pairs were observed in copulation. The Nikon Field binocular (30 × 25 DCF) and stop watch have been used for taking observations.\r\nIII. RESULTS AND DISCUSSION\r\nThe mass emergence and reproductive behaviour of Bayadara indica Selys, 1853 has been studied four times at study site on dated 27.06.2020, 04.07.2020, 19.06.2021 and 10.07.2021. The noticeable sexual dimorphism with a shining thorax black, marked with bright greenish-yellow stripes, wings apices black and abdomen black having mid-dorsal carina finely yellow from segment 1 to 8 in male, while females more robust than the male with shorter stouter abdomen, relatively longer wings without black apices made easy to keep a close watch on a species. Due to mass emergence the stretch of 50-100m is dominated by this species on the bank of river Yamuna. The observations on different activities, their duration and variabilities in the reproductive behaviour of Bayadara indica Selys, 1853 were recorded as below.\r\n(a) Territoriality: The males of Bayadara indica Selys, 1853 arrived at the rendezvous during 11:05 a.m. to 03:30 p.m., while the females appeared from the surrounding vegetation late during 11:40 a.m. to 03:00 p.m. The males after arrival perched on nearby vegetation on the banks of river Yamuna (Fig. 1). \r\n \r\nFig. 1. Territorial male.\r\nThe perch forms the centre of a circular territory with a radius of 05-10 meters, which was defended by the resident male from the intruding intra or some inter specific males. The resident male showed an aggressive abdomen raising display or by wing vibration against the conspecific and hetero specific male intruders. When disturbed it moves down stream with a strikingly flashing flight and soon coming back to same perch in the territory.\r\n(b) Before wheel tandem: As soon as the female arrived in the territory, the male started following her and after a short dual flight, got success to bind her in tandem link, catching hold her prothorax by its anal appendages. The pair in tandam flew to some nearby vegetation, where the male anchored the branch and the female hanged vertically. The pair in tandem changes perch 2-3 times to nearby vegetation. The before wheel tandem lasted for about 10-22 minutes (Fig. 2). This was the time when intramale sperm translocation, from the gonopore to the vesicula spermalis took place 2-3 times of 40-55 seconds duration at an interval of 1-2 minutes.\r\n \r\nFig. 2. Before wheel tandem.\r\n(c) Copulatory wheel position: After the completion of intramale sperm translocation, the male relaxed its abdomen and in tandem rest for 30-40 seconds, after this the male started bending its abdomen and also forced female to bend her abdomen to initiate process of wheel formation. The female then tried to interlock its vulvar region with the secondary copulatory apparatus of male by curling her abdomen forward to form the copulatory wheel (Fig. 3).\r\n \r\nFig. 3. Copulatory wheel position.\r\nAfter 2-3 attempts, the spectacular courtship wheel was formed. At the starting of the wheel position, an upward and downward motion of the male\'s abdomen has been noticed. If the wheel breaks in the process due to other conspecific males interfered or during change of perch, the pair in tandem formed the wheel again. The duration of the wheel position varied from 12-18 minutes. In single branch or perch the Copulatory Wheel pairs of 10-15 individuals observed due to dominance of this species in the study site due to mass emergence (Fig. 4). \r\n \r\nFig. 4. Many Copulatory wheel on single perch.\r\n(d). After wheel tandem: After breaking of the wheel, the male lowered the female and the female also grasped some vegetation by her legs (Fig. 5). After a rest of 02-05 minutes, the post copulatory flight was observed over the aquatic vegetation to choose the suitable spot for oviposition near the bank of Yamuna river and it lasted for 07-09 minutes.\r\n \r\nFig. 5. After wheel tandem.\r\n(e) Oviposition: The female of Bayadara indica Selys, 1853 oviposited endophytically among the aquatic plants and the eggs were laid in the tissue of leaf, petiole and stem. During oviposition the female hold the perch of plant and the male, just stayed in the air, balancing upon the prothorax of the female. The endophytic oviposition process on vegetation lasts for about 05-09 minutes. During oviposition the male in tandem and after release of grip hovers around the female, to defend her from intruding intra or inter specific males. The duration of reproductive behaviour lasts for 34-62 minutes. \r\n Darwin, (1859), stated in the “Origin of Species”, that sexual selection, “depends, not on a struggle for existence, but on a struggle between the males for possession of females [15], the result is not death to the unsuccessful competitors, but few or no offspring”. In odonates many different reproductive tactics have evolved to optimize the number of opportunities to successfully reproduce with females and the territorial behaviour, copulation and oviposition are carried out within or near the territory [7]. Several variation of the ovipositing behaviour exists in odonates, but the male has become territorial of these oviposition sites respective to its species [10].\r\nThe phenomenon of male territoriality amongst Zygoptera, is exhibited well in the damselflies of family Coenagriidae [37, 41], Calopterygidae [22, 42] and Protoneuridae [38]. Corbet [11] observed that aggressive behaviour of mature male odonates at the rendezvous was directed predominantly towards conspecific males, but in Bayadara indica Selys, 1853 males demonstrate aggressive behaviour against both conspecific and heterospecific males. During the present study in Bayadara indica Selys, 1853 the range of their territory is 05-10 meters is more as that of Ceriagrion coromandelianum and Pseudageion rubriceps 30-80cm [27] and in Pseudageion rubriceps 40-70cm [26]. The duration of copulatory wheel position was 12-18 minutes, which is more to the duration 03-08 minutes recorded for the other Coenagriidae species [26, 27] and the mating behaviour was similar to that of other zygopterans [6, 10, 29]. The endophytic oviposition by the female and the upright tandem posture adopted by the male during oviposition was quite similar to that described by Furtado [18, 30, 26, 27, 37, 39] for other species of Zygoptera. Hence, it reveals that the time period during reproductive activities observed for a particular event during present and previous studies may relatively changes with the inter or intraspecific interference, according to the habitats or by various environmental factors. Therefore, the long-term monitoring studies are required for different behavioural studies in different wetlands, riverine, reservoirs, marsh lands habitats for odonates.\r\n','Gaurav Sharma (2022). Studies on Mass Emergence and Reproductive Behaviour of Bayadara indica Selys, 1853 (Odonata: Insecta) around Yamuna River at Village Dakpathar, District Dehradun, Uttarakhand, India.International Journal of Theoretical & Applied Sciences, 14(1): 11-15.'),(4880,'114','Studies on Mass Emergence and Reproductive Behaviour of Bayadara indica Selys, 1853 (Odonata: Insecta) around Yamuna River at Village Dakpathar, District Dehradun, Uttarakhand, India','Gaurav Sharma','3 Studies on Mass Emergence and Reproductive Behaviour of Bayadara indica Selys, 1853 _Odonata Insecta_ around Yamuna River at Village Dakpathar, District Dehradun, Uttarakhand, India Gaurav Sharma.pdf','',1,'The studies on mass emergence and reproductive behaviour of Bayadara indica Selys, 1853 (Odonata: Insecta) around Yamuna River at village Dakpathar, District Dehradun, Uttarakhand, India was recorded in the month of June-July during 2020-21. Due to mass emergence the stretch of 50-100 m is dominated by this species. In the reproductive behaviour the Courtship is well marked and male demonstrate a circular territory with a radius of about 5-10 meters and defended it from the intruding intra or some inter specific male by warning signals like wing vibration or abdomen raising. As female entered into the territory, the male starts following her and forms a tandem link, catching hold of her prothorax by his anal appendages. The before wheel tandem lasted for 10-22 minutes and during this period intramale sperm translocation from the gonopore to the vesicular spermalis took place 2-3 times of 40-55 seconds duration. The courtship wheel lasts for about 12-18 minutes and is performed of perching on vegetation near the bank of river. After wheel tandem lasted for 07-09 minutes. Oviposition is endophytic among the aquatic vegetation and lasts for 05-09 minutes. The female in tandem uses her ovipositor to deposit eggs in the submerged vegetation near the bank of river. During oviposition the male in tandem and after release of grip hovers around the female, to defend her from intruding intra or inter specific males. The duration of reproductive behaviour lasts for 34-62 minutes.','Bayadara indica, Mass emergence, Reproductive behaviour, Yamuna river, Dakpathar, Dehradun, India','-','I. INTRODUCTION\r\nThe present day Odonata are among the largest living insects. They are amphibious hemi-matabolan insects having the aquatic egg and larval (nymph) stages, while the adults are terrestrial. The distribution of various groups and species of Odonata is highly variable. Some genera and species are widespread while others are highly local in their distribution. Some families are restricted to cool streams or rivers, others to ponds or still clear waters, and some to marshy places. The presence of dragonflies and damselflies may be taken as an indication of good ecosystem quality. \r\nThe Odonata exhibit two periods during their entire life: the pre-reproductive period and the reproductive period. The pre-reproductive period is the period in between emergence and reproduction. The main behaviour of a dragonfly during this period is: dispersal after emergence and feeding to help the teneral adults in becoming fully mature adults within a few days. Hence, the pre-reproductive period is also called maturation period. It does not mean that in the reproductive period, the dragonfly remains on fast. But together with the feeding behaviour the most spectacular phenomenon of this period are the different types of reproductive behaviour, which comprises territoriality, pre-copulatory tandem or before wheel tandem position, copulatory wheel formation, post copulatory tandem or after wheel tandem position and oviposition. The reproductive behaviour of Odonata comprises adult behaviour, which leads to successful mating and oviposition.\r\nThe Reproductive behaviour of odonates has been studied extensively by several workers including [1, 5, 8, 10, 11, 12, 18, 19, 30, 4, 6, 16, 20, 21 22, 29, 40, 41, 41, 3, 24, 37, 38, 2, 9, 13, 14, 23, 25, 26, 27, 28, 39, 31-36] etc. In the present study observations on mass emergence and on various aspects of the reproductive behaviour of Bayadara indica Selys, 1853 recorded around Yamuna River at village Dakpathar, District Dehradun, Uttarakhand, India.\r\nII. MATERIALS AND METHODS\r\nThe mass emergence and reproductive behaviour of Bayadara indica Selys, 1853 was studied four times around Yamuna River at village Dakpathar, District Dehradun, Uttarakhand, Indiahaving GPS coordinates 30.512610° N 77.833214°E in the month of June-July during 2020-21. Identification of adult individuals was carried out using identification keys provided by Fraser [17]. The wings of Adults of both sexes narrow, hyaline and male apices tipped with black, the hindwing not broader than forewing. Many pairs were observed in copulation. The Nikon Field binocular (30 × 25 DCF) and stop watch have been used for taking observations.\r\nIII. RESULTS AND DISCUSSION\r\nThe mass emergence and reproductive behaviour of Bayadara indica Selys, 1853 has been studied four times at study site on dated 27.06.2020, 04.07.2020, 19.06.2021 and 10.07.2021. The noticeable sexual dimorphism with a shining thorax black, marked with bright greenish-yellow stripes, wings apices black and abdomen black having mid-dorsal carina finely yellow from segment 1 to 8 in male, while females more robust than the male with shorter stouter abdomen, relatively longer wings without black apices made easy to keep a close watch on a species. Due to mass emergence the stretch of 50-100m is dominated by this species on the bank of river Yamuna. The observations on different activities, their duration and variabilities in the reproductive behaviour of Bayadara indica Selys, 1853 were recorded as below.\r\n(a) Territoriality: The males of Bayadara indica Selys, 1853 arrived at the rendezvous during 11:05 a.m. to 03:30 p.m., while the females appeared from the surrounding vegetation late during 11:40 a.m. to 03:00 p.m. The males after arrival perched on nearby vegetation on the banks of river Yamuna (Fig. 1). \r\n \r\nFig. 1. Territorial male.\r\nThe perch forms the centre of a circular territory with a radius of 05-10 meters, which was defended by the resident male from the intruding intra or some inter specific males. The resident male showed an aggressive abdomen raising display or by wing vibration against the conspecific and hetero specific male intruders. When disturbed it moves down stream with a strikingly flashing flight and soon coming back to same perch in the territory.\r\n(b) Before wheel tandem: As soon as the female arrived in the territory, the male started following her and after a short dual flight, got success to bind her in tandem link, catching hold her prothorax by its anal appendages. The pair in tandam flew to some nearby vegetation, where the male anchored the branch and the female hanged vertically. The pair in tandem changes perch 2-3 times to nearby vegetation. The before wheel tandem lasted for about 10-22 minutes (Fig. 2). This was the time when intramale sperm translocation, from the gonopore to the vesicula spermalis took place 2-3 times of 40-55 seconds duration at an interval of 1-2 minutes.\r\n \r\nFig. 2. Before wheel tandem.\r\n(c) Copulatory wheel position: After the completion of intramale sperm translocation, the male relaxed its abdomen and in tandem rest for 30-40 seconds, after this the male started bending its abdomen and also forced female to bend her abdomen to initiate process of wheel formation. The female then tried to interlock its vulvar region with the secondary copulatory apparatus of male by curling her abdomen forward to form the copulatory wheel (Fig. 3).\r\n \r\nFig. 3. Copulatory wheel position.\r\nAfter 2-3 attempts, the spectacular courtship wheel was formed. At the starting of the wheel position, an upward and downward motion of the male\'s abdomen has been noticed. If the wheel breaks in the process due to other conspecific males interfered or during change of perch, the pair in tandem formed the wheel again. The duration of the wheel position varied from 12-18 minutes. In single branch or perch the Copulatory Wheel pairs of 10-15 individuals observed due to dominance of this species in the study site due to mass emergence (Fig. 4). \r\n \r\nFig. 4. Many Copulatory wheel on single perch.\r\n(d). After wheel tandem: After breaking of the wheel, the male lowered the female and the female also grasped some vegetation by her legs (Fig. 5). After a rest of 02-05 minutes, the post copulatory flight was observed over the aquatic vegetation to choose the suitable spot for oviposition near the bank of Yamuna river and it lasted for 07-09 minutes.\r\n \r\nFig. 5. After wheel tandem.\r\n(e) Oviposition: The female of Bayadara indica Selys, 1853 oviposited endophytically among the aquatic plants and the eggs were laid in the tissue of leaf, petiole and stem. During oviposition the female hold the perch of plant and the male, just stayed in the air, balancing upon the prothorax of the female. The endophytic oviposition process on vegetation lasts for about 05-09 minutes. During oviposition the male in tandem and after release of grip hovers around the female, to defend her from intruding intra or inter specific males. The duration of reproductive behaviour lasts for 34-62 minutes. \r\n Darwin, (1859), stated in the “Origin of Species”, that sexual selection, “depends, not on a struggle for existence, but on a struggle between the males for possession of females [15], the result is not death to the unsuccessful competitors, but few or no offspring”. In odonates many different reproductive tactics have evolved to optimize the number of opportunities to successfully reproduce with females and the territorial behaviour, copulation and oviposition are carried out within or near the territory [7]. Several variation of the ovipositing behaviour exists in odonates, but the male has become territorial of these oviposition sites respective to its species [10].\r\nThe phenomenon of male territoriality amongst Zygoptera, is exhibited well in the damselflies of family Coenagriidae [37, 41], Calopterygidae [22, 42] and Protoneuridae [38]. Corbet [11] observed that aggressive behaviour of mature male odonates at the rendezvous was directed predominantly towards conspecific males, but in Bayadara indica Selys, 1853 males demonstrate aggressive behaviour against both conspecific and heterospecific males. During the present study in Bayadara indica Selys, 1853 the range of their territory is 05-10 meters is more as that of Ceriagrion coromandelianum and Pseudageion rubriceps 30-80cm [27] and in Pseudageion rubriceps 40-70cm [26]. The duration of copulatory wheel position was 12-18 minutes, which is more to the duration 03-08 minutes recorded for the other Coenagriidae species [26, 27] and the mating behaviour was similar to that of other zygopterans [6, 10, 29]. The endophytic oviposition by the female and the upright tandem posture adopted by the male during oviposition was quite similar to that described by Furtado [18, 30, 26, 27, 37, 39] for other species of Zygoptera. Hence, it reveals that the time period during reproductive activities observed for a particular event during present and previous studies may relatively changes with the inter or intraspecific interference, according to the habitats or by various environmental factors. Therefore, the long-term monitoring studies are required for different behavioural studies in different wetlands, riverine, reservoirs, marsh lands habitats for odonates.\r\n','Gaurav Sharma (2022). Studies on Mass Emergence and Reproductive Behaviour of Bayadara indica Selys, 1853 (Odonata: Insecta) around Yamuna River at Village Dakpathar, District Dehradun, Uttarakhand, India.International Journal of Theoretical & Applied Sciences, 14(1): 11-15.'),(4881,'114','First Time Sighted Two Snake Species from Todgarh-Raoli Wildlife Sanctuary, Rajasthan, India','Mohan Singh*, Abhinav Bharti, C.S. Purohit and Bharti Tanwar','4 First Time Sighted Two Snake Species from Todgarh-Raoli Wildlife Sanctuary, Rajasthan, India Mohan Singh.pdf','',4,'This paper deals with first time sighting of two new snake species Indotyphlops braminus and Boiga trigonata which are addition to the reptilian diversity of this sanctuary. Among these, Family: Typhlopidae is family addition and Genus: Boiga is generic addition and first time records for reptilian diversity of Todgarh-Raoli wildlife sanctuary.','Reptiles, Snake, Family, Genus, Addition, Todgarh','During the survey of Todgarh-Raoli wildlife sanctuary, we have sighted two new snake species Indotyphlops braminus and Boiga trigonata which are addition to the reptilian diversity of this sanctuary. Among these, Family: Typhlopidae is first time reported and family addition for reptilian diversity of Todgarh-Raoli wildlife sanctuary and one generic addition Genus: Boiga and first record for reptilian diversity of this sanctuary.','I. INTRODUCTION\r\nIndia has a wide range of climatic variation which includes regions having freezing temperature to those with dry and hot climate or moist and hot climate. On the western side the dry climate with very little rainfall has given rise to desert with very little vegetation and scattered shrubs. This broad range of agro-climatic zones has resulted in the development of different animals and plants according to the demand of the regional climate and topographical arrangement [9]. Biological diversity intrinsically pedals the functioning and stabilization of an ecosystem [6] and species are the backbone of biology [10].\r\nAmong the creatures on Earth, reptiles represent a major component of vertebrate species and the predominant group in many rainforest, arid and mountain habitats with a species richness pattern mainly influenced by temperature on a global scale. Whereas snakes surely are the most widely feared and avoided. In India, particularly, they should be among the most widely respected and appreciated, because they do essential job of rodent control; so that the government introduced a ban on trade in snake skins [7, 9]. There are about 11,050 species of reptiles in world, out of which 3,789 species are of snakes [8].\r\nIndia is known to contribute 518 species of reptiles and 279 species of snakes [1]. Most of species are nonpoisonous. Their bites, apart from causing panic reaction and local injury, do not kill or even harm the patient, but 13 known species among them are poisonous [9]. Out of these, 30 species of snakes out of 81 species of reptiles were reported from Rajasthan state, in which 26 are nonpoisonous and 4 species, namely common cobra (Naja naja), common krait (Bungarus caeruleus), Russell’s viper (Dabiola russelii) and saw-scaled viper (Echis carinatus) are highly venomous and believed to be responsible for most of the poisonous bites in Rajasthan [5]. In Todgarh-Raoli wildlife sanctuary, 19 reptiles and 11 snakes were listed by forest department, Rajasthan.\r\nStudy Area: This Sanctuary is situated between 73°40\' to 74°10\' east longitudes and 25°20\' to 26°0\' north latitudes and covers an area of about 495.27 km2. This sanctuary covers an area under three revenue districts viz., Rajsamand, Pali and Ajmer. It is one of the protected areas expressing full range of habitat of Aravalli ecosystem which has exceptionally rich biodiversity i.e. Dhok, Salar,Aak, Palas, Safeda, Ker, Kumat, Kala siris, Neem, Adusa, etc.\r\nThe sanctuary has number of historical and religious places like Todgarh, Mangadjika Mahal, Dudhaleshwar Mahadev, Dhareshwar Mahadeo, Goramjika Mandir, VayadBherujika Mandir, Kajalwas Dhuni etc. These sacred places are playing a vital role in conservation of the biodiversity of the sanctuary.Run off of Todgarh catchment is drained out by several ‘nallahs’ which ultimately form tributaries to drain in Dholapani, Sukdi, Jogmandi, Digore, Siryari, Rania rivers. Nine dams viz., Phulad, Gajnal, Rodawas, Jogmandi, Hansiyawas, Hichliawas, Digore, Siryari, Rania have been constructed on these rivers, originating from Todgarh hills.\r\nII. MATERIAL AND METHODS\r\nThe present study is to explore the diversity and documentation of biodiversity of the Todgarh-Raoli wildlife sanctuary. During the survey of the sanctuary for their biodiversity study, we observed two different snake species. Both species have been identified by using various published literature and field guides [1, 2, 3, 7, 8, 9, 11]. These are identified as Indotyphlops braminus and Boiga trigonata.\r\nIII. RESULTS AND DISCUSSION\r\nDuring the survey of Todgarh-Raoli wildlife sanctuary for their biodiversity study, we observed two unknown snake species. After critical examination we could identify as Boiga trigonata and Indotyphlops braminus. Current nomenclature citation, common name, vernacular name, diagnostic features, morphology, distribution, along with conservation status and habit-habitat of each snake species are provided here in alphabetical order.\r\n(1) Boiga trigonata (Schneider, 1802). Common name: Cat eyed snake, Common cat snake, Indian cat snake, Indian gamma snake.\r\nVernacular name: Chittisamp, Billisamp.\r\nDiagnostic feature: Head triangular, broader than neck; eyes large with vertical pupil; tail long, thin and pointed tipped. “Y” shaped light colored mark on head, dorsal side brown marked with black and white irregular markings (Fig. 1).\r\n \r\nFig. 1.\r\nBody measures: 60cm-1.25mt., male shorter than female.\r\nDistribution: Bangladesh, Nepal, Sri lanka and India.\r\nIndia: Andhra pradesh, Chhattisgarh, Gujarat, Himachal pradesh, Kerala, Madhya Pradesh, Maharashtra, Punjab, Sikkim, Tamil Nadu, Telengana, Uttarakhand, Uttar Pradesh, West bengal and Rajasthan.\r\nRajasthan: Jaipur, Jaisalmer and Jodhpur [2].\r\nHabitat: Bushes, scrub, tree and barks, under stone piles and cracks.\r\nFood and feeding: Feeds on amphibians, reptiles, small birds and rodents, Uses its mild venom for paralysing the prey.\r\nConservation status: IUCN; Least Concern.\r\nLocation with GPS: INDIA: Rajasthan, Todgarh-Raoli wildlife sanctuary, Jojawar Range, 8thMarch, 2019, 25°2534.0N, 73°4355.2E. (Fig. 2).\r\n (2) Indotyphlops braminus (Daudin, 1803). Common name: Common blind snake, Brahminy blind snake, Brahminy worm snake.\r\nVernacular name: Andhasamp, Keetsamp.\r\nDiagnostic features: Small, worm like and cylindrical, Coloration; Glossy black and reddish brown (Fig. 1).\r\nBody measures: 13-23cm Adult, 3-3.5cm Juvenile.\r\nDistribution: Afghanistan, America, Australia, Bangladesh, Bhutan, Africa, China, Indonesia, Japan, Myanmar, Nepal, Pakistan, Sri lanka and India.\r\nIndia: Delhi, Gujarat, Himachal Pradesh, Karnataka, Kerala, Lakshadweep, Madhya Pradesh, Maharashtra, Punjab, Tamil Nadu, Uttarakhand, Uttar Pradesh, West Bengal and Rajasthan.\r\nRajasthan: Ajmer, Bharatpur (Keoladeo National Park), Bikaner, Jaisalmer, Jodhpur and Mount Abu [2].\r\nHabitat: Lives under ground in ant holes and termite mounds, around roots, decayed wood logs and leaves, stones and humus in forests.\r\nFood and feeding: Eggs, larvae and pupae of ants and termites and other insects [4].\r\nConservation status: IUCN; Not Evaluated.\r\nLocation with GPS: INDIA: Rajasthan, Todgarh-Raoli wildlife sanctuary, Raoli Range, 2nd March, 2019, 25°4931.62N, 73°5922.22E (Fig. 2).\r\n \r\n \r\nFig. 2.\r\n','Mohan Singh*, Abhinav Bharti, C.S. Purohit and Bharti Tanwar (2022). First Time Sighted Two Snake Species from Todgarh-Raoli Wildlife Sanctuary, Rajasthan, India. International Journal of Theoretical & Applied Sciences, 14(1): 16-18. '),(4883,'125','Variation in Root Traits of Pigeonpea (Cajanus cajan (L.) Mill SP.) Genotypes Under Rainfed Conditions','R. Pavani, K. Jayalalitha, V. Umamahesh, M. Sree Rekha and Ch. Sujani Rao','80 Variation in Root Traits of Pigeonpea _Cajanus cajan _L._ Mill SP._ Genotypes Under Rainfed Conditions R.pdf','',1,'A study was conducted under simulated raised rectangular soil beds in order to know the variation in root traits among the redgram genotypes during kharif 2019-20 and 2020-21. Ten redgram genotypes (4 mid early, 4 medium and 2 late duration genotypes) were selected for the present research purpose. Root traits, such as root depth and root biomass, have been identified as the most promising plant traits in legume crops like pigeonpea and chickpea for terminal drought tolerance, as these help in greater extraction of available soil moisture. Conducting research on roots is very labour- expensive and time consuming because extraction of roots from the soil is a very difficult task. So, the present research was conducted separately in raised bed method to evaluate the root traits among mid-early, medium and late duration genotypes of redgram. Root traits were measured at 65 DAS through destructive method and the pooled data revealed that there was significant variation among the three duration genotypes. The highest root length, number of primary and secondary roots, root: shoot ratio was recorded by the medium duration genotype LRG 52, followed by the mid-early duration genotype CO-6. The lowest values of root characteristics were recorded in the late duration genotypes viz., ICPL 15062 and ICPL 17103.The remaining mid-early and medium duration genotypes are significantly superior over ICPL 17103 and 15062 and inferior over CO-6 and LRG-52. Hence, it can be concluded that the genotypes LRG-52 and CO-6 are considered as drought tolerant ones by possessing efficient rooting pattern under rainfed conditions','Cajanus cajan, root traits, Terminal drought, Raised soil bed.','A study was conducted under simulated raised rectangular soil beds in order to know the variation in root traits among the redgram genotypes during kharif 2019-20 and 2020-21. Ten redgram genotypes (4 mid early, 4 medium and 2 late duration genotypes) were selected for the present research purpose. Root traits, such as root depth and root biomass, have been identified as the most promising plant traits in legume crops like pigeonpea and chickpea for terminal drought tolerance, as these help in greater extraction of available soil moisture. Conducting research on roots is very labour- expensive and time consuming because extraction of roots from the soil is a very difficult task. So, the present research was conducted separately in raised bed method to evaluate the root traits among mid-early, medium and late duration genotypes of redgram. Root traits were measured at 65 DAS through destructive method and the pooled data revealed that there was significant variation among the three duration genotypes. The highest root length, number of primary and secondary roots, root: shoot ratio was recorded by the medium duration genotype LRG 52, followed by the mid-early duration genotype CO-6. The lowest values of root characteristics were recorded in the late duration genotypes viz., ICPL 15062 and ICPL 17103.The remaining mid-early and medium duration genotypes are significantly superior over ICPL 17103 and 15062 and inferior over CO-6 and LRG-52. Hence, it can be concluded that the genotypes LRG-52 and CO-6 are considered as drought tolerant ones by possessing efficient rooting pattern under rainfed conditions.','-','R. Pavani, K. Jayalalitha, V. Umamahesh, M. Sree Rekha and Ch. Sujani Rao (2022). Variation in Root Traits of Pigeonpea (Cajanus cajan (L.) Mill SP.) Genotypes Under Rainfed Conditions. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 14(2): 464-468.'),(4884,'125','Biochemical, Pharmaceutical and Biotechnological Perspectives of the Ascorbate Synthesis Gene L-Galactono-1,4-Lactone Dehydrogenase','Neera, Daljeet Singh Dhanjal, Reena Singh and Chirag Chopra','81 Biochemical, Pharmaceutical and Biotechnological Perspectives of the Ascorbate Synthesis Gene L-Galactono-1,4-Lactone Dehydrogenase Chirag Chopra.pdf','',1,'Ascorbic acid is an antioxidant that is also considered an effective dietary supplement that our body can\'t synthesize; hence, our body\'s need for Vitamin C is fulfilled through fruits and vegetables, but the amount of vitamin C in them varies. In past decades, extensive information has been gathered about the genes involved in regulating ascorbate biosynthesis. Plethora of studies has unveiled that Smirnoff-Wheeler pathway plays an extensive role in ascorbic acid synthesis. The major challenge among the plant tissues remained the same that is the diversity and variability of L-ascorbic acid among different plant tissues. A diet deficient in vitamin C results in the inception of various diseases, which may show disastrous consequences. However, many studies have shown its implications in preventing multiple diseases, for instance, stroke, heart diseases, cancer, and various other neurodegenerative diseases. The most vital enzyme, L-Galactono-1,4-Lactone Dehydrogenase performs an essential function in the last step attributed to the ascorbic acid pathwayis discussed in this review. GLDH is a miniature form of complex I and is also known as complex I*. Many advancements have been made to regulate ascorbic acid production by overexpressing this enzyme. This review also focuses on cloning strategies and biological functions, structure, and active site of the respective enzyme.Other than this, cloning strategies and biological application have also been discussed. ','Ascorbic acid, Antioxidant, Photoprotection, Reactive oxidant species','The review gives a brief about the enzyme L-Galactono-1,4-Lactone Dehydrogenase. GLDH is present in the inner mitochondrial membrane responsible for the final step of ascorbate biosynthesis, where it is produced through L-galactono-1,4-lactone oxidation in association with cytochrome c reduction. This paper also gives an overview of the active sites of this enzyme. Many steps associate in the formation of Vit C, but the final pace where ascorbic acid is produced is by L-Galactono-1,4-lactone\'s oxidation. L-Galactono-1,4-Lactone Dehydrogenase is the key enzyme that catalyzes this step. Also, a protein family favoured by Flavin Adenine Dinucleotide (FAD), a linked enzyme of VAO i.e. Vanily-1-Alcohol Oxidase, utilizes type-c cytochrome as an acceptor of an electron. These enzymes have a hand in the ascorbic acid synthesis, and also, this enzyme, i.e. GLDH is connected to respiratory complex I in mitochondria. The report also mentions the cloning strategies to increase the accumulation of ascorbate, which adds to resistance to oxidative stress.\r\nAscorbate\'s significance in various crucial and critical cellular processes is being investigated; the chemical is intriguing for new research. From cell division and growth to offering plant tolerance to environmental stress, ascorbate is engaged in various cellular functions. Current, Vit C research is mainly focused on increasing ascorbate accumulation or overexpression in ascorbate plants to meet the need for vitamin c content. Advanced genomic technologies will significantly impact the research of ascorbate regulation, assembly, and recycling in the future. The application of genetic engineering will enable us to combine two or more biosynthetic gene in expression model organism to regulate the biosynthesis of ascorbic acid and further exploration might be done to understand the effect of different metabolic products in synthesis process. Moreover, the impact of genes clone could also be studied in different model organism and their organs. ','-','Neera, Daljeet Singh Dhanjal, Reena Singh and Chirag Chopra (2022). Biochemical, Pharmaceutical and Biotechnological Perspectives of the Ascorbate Synthesis Gene L-Galactono-1,4-Lactone Dehydrogenase. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 14(2): 469-480.'),(4885,'125','Source of Stable Resistance against Post Flowering Stalk Rot of Maize (Zea mays L.) in Various Maturity Groups and Specialty Corn in Subtropical Regions of India','Kalpana Yadav, S.S. Sharma, Sarita, Anil Kumar Sharma and Suresh Kumar Gurjar','82 Source of Stable Resistance against Post Flowering Stalk Rot of Maize _Zea mays L.pdf','',1,'Post flowering stalk rot is a serious biotic compulsion to corn production in subtropical or tropical areas. It is a disease which is incited by multiple infectives, among them Fusarium verticillioides and M. phaseolina are the utmost that involved in pith decaying, wilting and drying in early age of plants in India’s subtropical regions. Almost all the maize cultivars have exhibit a crucial level of disease incidence at tessling and silking stage. A systematic breeding programme for screening on PFSR initiated in India, collaboration with Indian Institute of Maize Research (IIMR), Ludhiana and Asian Regional Maize Program of CIMMYT. In the process of these programme, genotypes screening was carried out at ‘hotspot’ location in Udaipur, Rajasthan for PFSR, inoculated through toothpick method were using artificially the promising maize genotypes, repeatedly, resistant plants were selfed to acquire resistant cultivars. After considerable regular screening, Fusarium stalk rot, 150 maize germplasm were screened in field. Eight genotypes namely AH1625, BAU-MH-18-2, GGMH-114, GK 3207, CMH-12-686, CAH 1511, ADH 1619, and FQH-148 reveal highly resistant genotypes with disease score of 1.0-2.0. previously mentioned genotypes may be convenient for resource use in breeding for resistant to PFSR disease.','Fusarium verticilloides, Genotypes, Resistant source, Artificial inoculations, Pre mature wilting etc.','Throughout the years, maize genotypes AH1625, BAU-MH-18-2, GGMH-114, GK 3207, CMH-12-686, CAH 1511, ADH 1619, and FQH-148 pick up as highly resistant response with disease score of 1.00-2.00. These genotypes show beyond doubt useful for utilization for breeding programmers to resistant response against the post flowering stalk rot disease with maximum yield in subtropical India and specially in southern Rajasthan for higher grain yield in maize','-','Kalpana Yadav, S.S. Sharma, Sarita, Anil Kumar Sharma and Suresh Kumar Gurjar (2022). Source of Stable Resistance against Post Flowering Stalk Rot of Maize (Zea mays L.) in Various Maturity Groups and Specialty Corn in Subtropical Regions of India. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 14(2): 481-485.'),(4886,'125','Biochemical and Biotechnological Perspectives of GDP-L-Galactose Phosphorylase, L-galactose Dehydrogenase, L-Galactono-1,4-Lactone Dehydrogenase: A Review','Ayush Srivastava, Daljeet Singh Dhanjal, Reena Singh and Chirag Chopra','83 Biochemical and Biotechnological Perspectives of GDP-L-Galactose Phosphorylase, L-galactose Dehydrogenase, L-Galactono-1,4-Lactone Dehydrogenase A Review Chirag Chopra.pdf','',1,'L-ascorbic acid (vitamin C) is an essential water-soluble antioxidant and acts as an enzymes cofactor involved in the biosynthesis of necessary molecules. It is requisite for both plants and animals. In the past two decades, metabolic pathways and genetic regulation of ascorbate biosynthesis have been explored. A plethora of studies proposed that the Smirnoff-Wheeler pathway contributes to the major content of ascorbic acid. So far, attempts have been made to regulate metabolic pathways by cloning and overexpressing genes of biosynthetic pathways to enhance ascorbic acid content. The diversity and variability of L-ascorbic acid among different plant tissues remain the challenge. Thus, in this review, gene cloning strategies of GGP (GDP-L-Galactose Phosphorylase), GalDH (L-galactose Dehydrogenase), GLDH (L-Galactono-1,4-Lactone Dehydrogenase), and consequences of their overexpression or suppression on ascorbate content and overall plant growth including tolerance has been discussed. Overexpression of GGP and GLDH in model plants showed reasonable results. However, stable translation of these results in consumable crops to improve nutritional superiority will necessitate a novel targeted approach. Moreover, additional interventions are being explored so that can be employted to enhance the L-ascorbic acid content in different species of crop by using different molecular approaches. ','Ascorbic acid, Vitamin C, L-galactose dehydrogenase, GDP-L-Galactose Phosphorylase, L-Galactono-1,4-Lactone Dehydrogenase, Gene cloning, ascorbate biosynthesis.','Advancement in the field of ascorbic acid biochemistry, including metabolism and biosynthesis, opens a new path for enhancing ascorbic acid content in plants and microbes. This also favored the cloning of genes involved in ascorbate biosynthesis, most of the genes are well explored, and many cloning strategies have been published inthe last two decades. Transgenic plants have been developed by cloning and expressing genes of different ascorbic acid biosynthetic pathways. These transgenic plants are made conducive to optimize ascorbic acid biosynthesis. Some model plants, such as A. thaliana, Oryza sativa, tobacco, etc., showed increased synthesis and accumulation of ascorbic acid by overexpression of genes of the ascorbate biosynthetic pathway. However, overexpression of a single gene can be supplementary rate-limiting and has restricted significance. It is concluded that enhanced enzyme activity may correlate with increased ascorbate biosynthesis/accumulation, but it is not unswervingly proportional. For further studies combination of two or more biosynthetic genes can be used in a single model plant to regulate ascorbate synthesis, and the effect of other metabolic products might be exploited. Till now, leaves have been in focus for expressing cloned genes. Therefore the impact of cloned genes could also be explored on other plant parts such as flowers, fruit, etc. An ideal protocol must be developed to transform the result observed in the model plant into crops that can be consumed. ','-','Ayush Srivastava, Daljeet Singh Dhanjal, Reena Singh and Chirag Chopra (2022). Biochemical and Biotechnological Perspectives of GDP-L-Galactose Phosphorylase, L-galactose Dehydrogenase, L-Galactono-1,4-Lactone Dehydrogenase: A Review. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 14(2): 486-497.'),(4887,'125','Performance of Intercropping under Juvenile Jackfruit Orchard in Sub-Himalayan Terai Region of West Bengal','Santhoshkumar G.M., Nilesh Bhowmick and Ashok Choudhury','84 Performance of Intercropping under Juvenile Jackfruit Orchard in Sub-Himalayan Terai Region of West Bengal Nilesh Bhowmick.pdf','',1,'Intercropping of vegetable crops in fruit orchard has higher potential to enhance the productivity. Intercropping involves raising of two or more crops simultaneously in proximity. The main goal of intercropping is to obtain higher yield on a given piece of land by effective utilization of resources or ecological processes that would elseways not be used by a single crop. This ensures their suitability for growing as intercrops under fruit orchards. An experiment was conducted in the Instructional Farm of Department of Pomology and Post-Harvest Technology, Uttar Banga Krishi Viswavidyalaya, Pundibari, with an aim to identify the suitable and profitable intercrops and also to evaluate the performance of intercropping under juvenile orchard of jackfruit. An experiment consisting of ten treatments such as jackfruit + cabbage+ amaranthus, jackfruit + cauliflower+ amaranthus, jackfruit + broccoli+ amaranthus, jackfruit + tomato+ amaranthus, jackfruit + brinjal+ amaranthus, jackfruit + palak+ amaranthus, jackfruit + peas+ amaranthus, jackfruit + radish+ amaranthus, jackfruit + cucumber+ amaranthus, Jackfruit (monocrop) to assess the performance of intercropping under juvenile orchard of jackfruit. The results indicated that the increase in juvenile jackfruit plant growth behavior due to intercropping with pea or other intercrops, contained adequate amount of plant nutrients enhanced the growth of the main crop and improvedthe atmospheric nitrogen fixing capacity into the soil and jackfruit + tomato intercropping system showed better performance in terms of yield and economic analysis followed by jackfruit + cauliflower intercropping system. Jackfruit + tomato cropping system has recorded higher B:C ratio (2.86) followed by jackfruit + cauliflower (2.57).','Juvenile Orchard, Jackfruit, Intercrops, Yield.','Based on the present study it can be concluded that, under jackfruit based intercropping system, growing of different vegetable intercrops enhances the better growth of juvenile jackfruit trees along with improves the soil fertility status of the orchard. The highest benefit: cost ratio was observed in jackfruit + tomato (2.86), followed by jackfruit + cauliflower (2.57) and jackfruit + radish (2.03). These intercropping models were most suitable strategies for generating employment opportunities, economizing productivity, enhancing economic conditions of the entrepreneurs and farmers, enhancing export, and nutritional security to the people. Moreover, intercropping of short duration vegetable crops in juvenile fruit orchard not only enhance the utilization of resources but also play a crucial role in reducing the risk of crop failure by increasing the net income per unit of area.','-',' Santhoshkumar G.M., Nilesh Bhowmick and Ashok Choudhury (2022). Performance of Intercropping under Juvenile Jackfruit Orchard in Sub-Himalayan Terai Region of West Bengal. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 14(2): 498-502.'),(4888,'125','Estimation of Genetic Variability for Seed Yield and Yield Related Traits in Mungbean [Vigna radiata (L.) Wilczek]','Anita, S.R. Kumhar, Anil Kumar and Gopi Krishan Gaur','85 Estimation of Genetic Variability for Seed Yield and Yield Related Traits in Mungbean [Vigna radiata _L.pdf','',1,'A field experiment was conducted to study the genetic variability involve 38 genotypes for seed yield and its component traits in mungbean at ARS (Agriculture University, Jodhpur), Mandor, Jodhpur during Kharif 2019. Good amount of genetic variability has been reported in green gram for various characters such as days to flowering, days to maturity, plant height, harvest index, pods per plant, protein content etc. and their utilization in breeding programme resulted in identification and release of good number of improved varieties. However, these released types cannot be continued longer due to genetic erosion and susceptibility to diseases and pests. Thus, pulse improvement programmes emphasized the urgency of generating variability for high yield potential and identify the genotypes for new niches. It is very essential to understand the genetic nature of varieties, gene action governing yield and its component traits increase yield per unit area. Under this study, eleven characters were analysed and significant differences were observed among genotypes for all the characters. The magnitudes of phenotypic coefficients of variation were slightly higher over genotypic values showing smaller effect of environment in the expression of all studied characters including seed yield. The highest magnitudes of PCV and GCV were observed for seed yield per plant followed by pods/ plant, harvest index, plant height, branches/ plant. High heritability coupled with high genetic advance as 5 per cent of mean were altogether at a glance and observed for the traits like plant height (98.5, 45.9), pods/ plant (94.9, 56.0), 100-seed weight (93.0, 27.2), seed yield/ plant (89.8, 54.4), number of branches/ plant (85.4, 40.7) and harvest index (88.3, 43.4) suggesting additive gene action in the expression of these characters, hence these characters may be proved as effective criteria for selection to improve the seed yield in mungbean. Genotypes exhibited higher seed yield along with other desirable traits were PM 1522, GM-6, IGKM 06-18-3 and GM-4. Besides quantitative traits, all these variety were also found early in flowering and maturity, which are considered as the most desirable characters for crop cultivation. ','Genotypic variability, mungbean, phenotypic variability, seed yield.','The highest value of GCV and PCV observed for pods/ plant indicated a greater phenotypic and genotypic variability among the genotypes which suggested that response to selection would be very high for these constituent which ultimately leading to yield improvement in the mungbean crop.\r\nThe characters such as plant height, pods/ plant, branches/ plant, harvest index and seed yield per plant recorded high genetic variability, high heritability in coincidence with high genetic advance as per cent mean specify the prevalence of additive gene action and selection may be effectual in next generations for these traits.\r\nOut of 38 genotypes PM 1522, GM-6, IGKM 06-18-3, GM-4, SKAU-M 365, JLM707-5, SML 668 and Pusa M 1872 were found higher in seed yield and for other characters based on mean performance. Hence, these genotypes would be used as parental origin for subsequent breeding programmes.\r\n','-','Anita, S.R. Kumhar, Anil Kumar and Gopi Krishan Gaur (2022). Estimation of Genetic Variability for Seed Yield and Yield Related Traits in Mungbean [Vigna radiata (L.) Wilczek]. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 14(2): 503-507.'),(4889,'114','First Time Sighted Two Snake Species from Todgarh-Raoli Wildlife Sanctuary, Rajasthan, India','Mohan Singh*, Abhinav Bharti, C.S. Purohit and Bharti Tanwar','4 First Time Sighted Two Snake Species from Todgarh-Raoli Wildlife Sanctuary, Rajasthan, India Mohan Singh.pdf','',1,'This paper deals with first time sighting of two new snake species Indotyphlops braminus and Boiga trigonata which are addition to the reptilian diversity of this sanctuary. Among these, Family: Typhlopidae is family addition and Genus: Boiga is generic addition and first time records for reptilian diversity of Todgarh-Raoli wildlife sanctuary.','Reptiles, Snake, Family, Genus, Addition, Todgarh','During the survey of Todgarh-Raoli wildlife sanctuary, we have sighted two new snake species Indotyphlops braminus and Boiga trigonata which are addition to the reptilian diversity of this sanctuary. Among these, Family: Typhlopidae is first time reported and family addition for reptilian diversity of Todgarh-Raoli wildlife sanctuary and one generic addition Genus: Boiga and first record for reptilian diversity of this sanctuary.','I. INTRODUCTION\r\nIndia has a wide range of climatic variation which includes regions having freezing temperature to those with dry and hot climate or moist and hot climate. On the western side the dry climate with very little rainfall has given rise to desert with very little vegetation and scattered shrubs. This broad range of agro-climatic zones has resulted in the development of different animals and plants according to the demand of the regional climate and topographical arrangement [9]. Biological diversity intrinsically pedals the functioning and stabilization of an ecosystem [6] and species are the backbone of biology [10].\r\nAmong the creatures on Earth, reptiles represent a major component of vertebrate species and the predominant group in many rainforest, arid and mountain habitats with a species richness pattern mainly influenced by temperature on a global scale. Whereas snakes surely are the most widely feared and avoided. In India, particularly, they should be among the most widely respected and appreciated, because they do essential job of rodent control; so that the government introduced a ban on trade in snake skins [7, 9]. There are about 11,050 species of reptiles in world, out of which 3,789 species are of snakes [8].\r\nIndia is known to contribute 518 species of reptiles and 279 species of snakes [1]. Most of species are nonpoisonous. Their bites, apart from causing panic reaction and local injury, do not kill or even harm the patient, but 13 known species among them are poisonous [9]. Out of these, 30 species of snakes out of 81 species of reptiles were reported from Rajasthan state, in which 26 are nonpoisonous and 4 species, namely common cobra (Naja naja), common krait (Bungarus caeruleus), Russell’s viper (Dabiola russelii) and saw-scaled viper (Echis carinatus) are highly venomous and believed to be responsible for most of the poisonous bites in Rajasthan [5]. In Todgarh-Raoli wildlife sanctuary, 19 reptiles and 11 snakes were listed by forest department, Rajasthan.\r\nStudy Area: This Sanctuary is situated between 73°40\' to 74°10\' east longitudes and 25°20\' to 26°0\' north latitudes and covers an area of about 495.27 km2. This sanctuary covers an area under three revenue districts viz., Rajsamand, Pali and Ajmer. It is one of the protected areas expressing full range of habitat of Aravalli ecosystem which has exceptionally rich biodiversity i.e. Dhok, Salar,Aak, Palas, Safeda, Ker, Kumat, Kala siris, Neem, Adusa, etc.\r\nThe sanctuary has number of historical and religious places like Todgarh, Mangadjika Mahal, Dudhaleshwar Mahadev, Dhareshwar Mahadeo, Goramjika Mandir, VayadBherujika Mandir, Kajalwas Dhuni etc. These sacred places are playing a vital role in conservation of the biodiversity of the sanctuary.Run off of Todgarh catchment is drained out by several ‘nallahs’ which ultimately form tributaries to drain in Dholapani, Sukdi, Jogmandi, Digore, Siryari, Rania rivers. Nine dams viz., Phulad, Gajnal, Rodawas, Jogmandi, Hansiyawas, Hichliawas, Digore, Siryari, Rania have been constructed on these rivers, originating from Todgarh hills.\r\nII. MATERIAL AND METHODS\r\nThe present study is to explore the diversity and documentation of biodiversity of the Todgarh-Raoli wildlife sanctuary. During the survey of the sanctuary for their biodiversity study, we observed two different snake species. Both species have been identified by using various published literature and field guides [1, 2, 3, 7, 8, 9, 11]. These are identified as Indotyphlops braminus and Boiga trigonata.\r\nIII. RESULTS AND DISCUSSION\r\nDuring the survey of Todgarh-Raoli wildlife sanctuary for their biodiversity study, we observed two unknown snake species. After critical examination we could identify as Boiga trigonata and Indotyphlops braminus. Current nomenclature citation, common name, vernacular name, diagnostic features, morphology, distribution, along with conservation status and habit-habitat of each snake species are provided here in alphabetical order.\r\n(1) Boiga trigonata (Schneider, 1802). Common name: Cat eyed snake, Common cat snake, Indian cat snake, Indian gamma snake.\r\nVernacular name: Chittisamp, Billisamp.\r\nDiagnostic feature: Head triangular, broader than neck; eyes large with vertical pupil; tail long, thin and pointed tipped. “Y” shaped light colored mark on head, dorsal side brown marked with black and white irregular markings (Fig. 1).\r\n \r\nFig. 1.\r\nBody measures: 60cm-1.25mt., male shorter than female.\r\nDistribution: Bangladesh, Nepal, Sri lanka and India.\r\nIndia: Andhra pradesh, Chhattisgarh, Gujarat, Himachal pradesh, Kerala, Madhya Pradesh, Maharashtra, Punjab, Sikkim, Tamil Nadu, Telengana, Uttarakhand, Uttar Pradesh, West bengal and Rajasthan.\r\nRajasthan: Jaipur, Jaisalmer and Jodhpur [2].\r\nHabitat: Bushes, scrub, tree and barks, under stone piles and cracks.\r\nFood and feeding: Feeds on amphibians, reptiles, small birds and rodents, Uses its mild venom for paralysing the prey.\r\nConservation status: IUCN; Least Concern.\r\nLocation with GPS: INDIA: Rajasthan, Todgarh-Raoli wildlife sanctuary, Jojawar Range, 8thMarch, 2019, 25°2534.0N, 73°4355.2E. (Fig. 2).\r\n (2) Indotyphlops braminus (Daudin, 1803). Common name: Common blind snake, Brahminy blind snake, Brahminy worm snake.\r\nVernacular name: Andhasamp, Keetsamp.\r\nDiagnostic features: Small, worm like and cylindrical, Coloration; Glossy black and reddish brown (Fig. 1).\r\nBody measures: 13-23cm Adult, 3-3.5cm Juvenile.\r\nDistribution: Afghanistan, America, Australia, Bangladesh, Bhutan, Africa, China, Indonesia, Japan, Myanmar, Nepal, Pakistan, Sri lanka and India.\r\nIndia: Delhi, Gujarat, Himachal Pradesh, Karnataka, Kerala, Lakshadweep, Madhya Pradesh, Maharashtra, Punjab, Tamil Nadu, Uttarakhand, Uttar Pradesh, West Bengal and Rajasthan.\r\nRajasthan: Ajmer, Bharatpur (Keoladeo National Park), Bikaner, Jaisalmer, Jodhpur and Mount Abu [2].\r\nHabitat: Lives under ground in ant holes and termite mounds, around roots, decayed wood logs and leaves, stones and humus in forests.\r\nFood and feeding: Eggs, larvae and pupae of ants and termites and other insects [4].\r\nConservation status: IUCN; Not Evaluated.\r\nLocation with GPS: INDIA: Rajasthan, Todgarh-Raoli wildlife sanctuary, Raoli Range, 2nd March, 2019, 25°4931.62N, 73°5922.22E (Fig. 2).\r\n \r\n \r\nFig. 2.\r\n','Mohan Singh*, Abhinav Bharti, C.S. Purohit and Bharti Tanwar (2022). First Time Sighted Two Snake Species from Todgarh-Raoli Wildlife Sanctuary, Rajasthan, India. International Journal of Theoretical & Applied Sciences, 14(1): 16-18. '),(4890,'114','Dynamic Light Scattering of Chlorogloeopsis fritschii BK (MN968818) Mediated Zinc Oxide Nanoparticles at different Temperatures','Radhakanta Nag, Himansu Sekhar Sahoo and Saubhagya Manjari Samantaray*','5 Dynamic Light Scattering of Chlorogloeopsis fritschii BK _MN968818_ Mediated Zinc Oxide Nanoparticles at different Temperatures Radhakanta Nag.pdf','',1,'The present study is to optimize an eco-friendly and cost-effective mode to rapidly synthesize zinc oxide nanoparticles (ZnO NPs) through Chlorogloeopsis fritschii BK (MN968818) aqueous extracts and confirm ZnO NPs synthesis via dynamic light scattering (DLS) analysis. Nanoscale technology has emerged as a new field of study, synthesizing nanoparticles for various applications, including catalysis, electrochemistry, biomedicine, pharmaceutics, and food technology. A more comprehensive range of microbiota has been used in the biosynthesis of nanoparticles, with cyanobacteria proving to be a precious source due to their bioactive compound content. An attempt has been made to optimize temperature for biosynthesizing ZnO NPs using Chlorogloeopsis fritschii BK (MN968818).','Cyanobacteria, biosynthesis, zinc oxide nanoparticle, dynamic light scattering','This work opens a way to understand how the size of the NPs gets influenced by the employed temperature used during the green synthesis of ZnO NPs using the cyanobacterium Chlorogloeopsis fritchii BK (MN968818). The temperature between 60 and 70°C was found to be sufficient for the formation of ZnO NPs. Further, a deeper understanding of the synthesis of ZnO NPs in the laboratory for various sizes can be used for diverse applications.','I. INTRODUCTION\r\nNanoscale technology is a new field of study that involves creating nanoparticles for various applications such as catalysis, electrochemistry, biomedicine, pharmaceutics, and food technology [1]. Nanoparticles are synthesized via physical and chemical mechanisms such as photochemical, radiation, and chemical precipitation. However, using these processes is not environmentally friendly, expensive, or risky [2]. NPs, on the other hand, can be made via a biosynthetic approach that involves plant extracts and microbial communities (bacteria, fungi, algae, etc.). Physical and chemical procedures are more harmful than this method [3]. It\'s biocompatible, affordable, and safe [4]. Environmental safety is a critical component of a sustainable climate, is a top priority, and plays a more prominent role in illness prevention and healthcare-associated infections [2]. Adopting green and environmentally friendly synthesis processes has facilitated the development of NPs for use in consumer healthcare, space, food, and the cosmetic industry.\r\nFurthermore, nanoparticles reduce antibiotic misuse, which is mainly used to treat pathogenic strains. Inorganic metal oxide nanoparticles including TiO2, CuO, and ZnO have been produced and used in several studies to cure infectious and fatal diseases. Metal oxide nanoparticles like ZnO NPs are popular since they\'re easy to make and prepare. Furthermore, it is an n-type semiconducting metal oxide that has sparked a lot of attention in biomedical systems in recent years due to its wide range of uses. The ZnO is a GRAS (generally recognized as safe) metal oxide by the US FDA [5]. Traditional medications can be replaced with a bio-based ZnO NP, a more environmentally friendly alternative. Natural goods\' potential has been recognized in agrochemicals and pharmaceuticals as the use of natural products has grown. They could be a new source of bioactive chemicals for metal ion reduction and disease control in plants and humans [6]. Because they contain various bioactive compounds, plants, algae, and microorganisms are promising candidates for nanoparticle synthesis [7]. Among all microorganisms, cyanobacteria are of particular interest in synthesizing NPs because they represent a potential source of novel chemicals with substantial biotechnological value [5]. In this study we have optimized the temperature sufficient for the formation of ZnO NPs.\r\nII. MATERIAL AND METHODS\r\nSynthesis of ZnO NPs in a green manner utilizing the cell-free extract. A 75ml zinc acetate dihydrate [Zn (CH3COO)2. 2H2O)] precursor (2Mm). The solution was combined with 25 mL of cyanobacterial extract and stirred for an hour at 85°C, 70°C, 65°C, and 58°C at 150rpm. It was then collected and washed several times using ultrapure water and dried at 60°C for 24 hours, and green synthesized ZnO NPs were obtained by heating at 100°C for 8 hours [8, 9].\r\nDynamic light scattering (DLS) analysis for ZnO NPs. At the Institute of life science, Bhubaneswar, India, a \"particle size analyzer\" (Malvern zeta sizer) was utilized to measure the surface charge and size distribution of ZnO NPs. \r\nIII. RESULT AND DISCUSSION\r\nUnderstanding nanoparticle growth mechanisms is crucial for synthesizing nanocrystals with desired biological and chemical properties. ZnO nanoparticles (NPs) were prepared by the green synthesis method in this work. \r\n \r\n\r\n \r\n \r\n \r\n \r\nFig. 1. Particle size distribution obtained at different temperature (a) average particle size at 85°C; (b) 70°C; (c) 65°C; (d) 58°C.\r\n \r\nDynamic light scattering (DLS) systematically studied the size evolution of ZnO NPs in an aqueous solution. Fig. 1 (a) reflects the average particle size of 387.5nm obtained at 85°C with a polydispersity, using 0.1 m mol of zinc acetate dihydrate. Fig. 1 (b) showed the average particle size of 539.3 nm obtained at 70°C with polydispersity. Fig. 1 (c) shows that the average particle size of 529.4 nm was obtained at 65°C with polydispersity. Figure 1 (d) showed an average size of 920.0nm at 58°C. A similar observation was reported by Markus et al. (2016) [10] in which the gold nanoparticles synthesized using probiotic L. kimchicus DCY51 were observed to be entirely poly-dispersed with sizes varying from 40 to 300 nm. Similar work was reported by another author while synthesizing ZnO NPs using the cell-biomass (CB) and supernatant (CFS) of zinc-tolerant Lactobacillus plantarum TA4 in a polydispersity state [11]. Furthermore, due to measurements performed from the metal core to the biological compound bonded to the particle surface, the hydrodynamic size of both biosynthesized ZnO NPs had a large diameter [10], as a result, their larger sizes are reflected.\r\n','Radhakanta Nag, Himansu Sekhar Sahoo and Saubhagya Manjari Samantaray* (2022). Dynamic Light Scattering of Chlorogloeopsis fritschii BK (MN968818) Mediated Zinc Oxide Nanoparticles at different Temperatures. International Journal of Theoretical & Applied Sciences, 14(1): 19-21. '),(4891,'125','The Association Studies Between Yield and its Attributing Traits in M4 Generation of rabi sorghum [Sorghum bicolor (L.) Moench]','V.C. Raghavendra, G. Girish, M.B. Ashok, B.V. Temburne, L.N. Yogeesh and M. R. Govindappa','86 The Association Studies Between Yield and its Attributing Traits in M4 Generation of rabi sorghum [Sorghum bicolor _L._ Moench] V. C.pdf','',1,'The experiment was executed in Agricultural Research Station, Hagari during rabi 2020. The study was conducted in augmented design to ascertain the correlation and path analysis in 200 sorghum mutant lines of M4 generation. The positive significant correlation with grain yield were shown by viz., number of leaves, stem girth, plant height, panicle length, panicle width, panicle weight, 100-seed weight and fodder yield at phenotypic level. Among these traits panicle weight (r=0.9830) showed highest positive association with grain yield compared to other traits. The characters viz., panicle weight, fodder yield, stem girth, days to maturity, panicle length, 100-seed weight, panicle width, SPAD 90 and number of leaves showed positive direct effects on grain yield per plant. These traits play a greater role in selection of desirable mutants and at same time, improvement of these characters will effectively increase the grain yield.','Correlation, Path analysis, Mutants, Sorghum.','After thorough study of correlation and path analysis, it concludes that traits viz., number of leaves, stem girth, panicle length, panicle width, panicle weight, 100-seed weight and fodder yield, more emphasis should be given for these traits while selecting the mutants for yield improvement.','-','V.C. Raghavendra, G. Girish, M.B. Ashok, B.V. Temburne, L.N. Yogeesh and M. R. Govindappa (2022). The Association Studies Between Yield and its Attributing Traits in M4 Generation of rabi sorghum [Sorghum bicolor (L.) Moench]. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 14(2): 508-511.'),(4892,'125','Studies on the Performance of Bitter gourd (Momordica charantia L) Hybrids for Growth and Yield Attributes','G.P. Prabakaran and V. Sundaram','87 Studies on the Performance of Bitter gourd _Momordica charantia L_ Hybrids for Growth and Yield Attributes G. P.pdf','',1,'Vegetables are considered as essential one for a well-balanced diet. Karaikal is one of the regions of Union Territory of Puducherry located in the East Coast, almost at the end of the Cauvery Delta Zone. Diversification of cropping as an alternate to paddy is highly recommended for augumenting the farmers income and to sustain farming in this region. However, identification of suitable crop and variety to suit the existing soil and climatic conditions becomes essential. Since bitter gourd has a high nutritive and important among cucurbit vegetable it was chosen and the present investigation was carried out to study the per se performance of different bitter gourd hybrids in the Coastal condition of Karaikal for various growth and yield attributes. The study materials comprised of sixteen different bitter gourd hybrids assembled from various parts of the country and was performed at the Department of Horticulture, Pandit Jawaharlal Nehru College of Agriculture and Research Institute, Karaikal, Puducherry, India. The study revealed the presence of significant differences among the hybrids evaluated for almost all the growth and yield contributing characters observed. Among the sixteen hybrids, the hybrid BGHS 8848 was found to record the best performance for days to first male flower anthesis (32.67) and days to first female flower anthesis (31.25) with the lowest values recorded. The hybrid NBGH 470 was found to produce both the first male (5.50) and female flower (7.17) at the lowermost nodes. For the character days to first fruit harvest the hybrid BGHS 4221 showed its best performance with 48.08 days while, BGHS 555 was found to record the longest duration with 149.17 days for final harvest. The hybrid Naveen with 17.72 primary branches at final harvest and BGHS 555 with a vine length of 5.11 m at final harvest were also found superior for these traits. Among the yield attributes, the fruit length was found maximum (24.11 cm) in NBGH 676, while fruit girth (14.51 cm), weight of individual fruit (146.26 gm) and flesh thickness (8.28 mm) were the highest in Pragati 065. The number of fruits vine-1 recorded was the maximum in NS 4501 (75.42), while the fruit yield vine-1 was found to be the highest in NBGH 676 (4.11 kg), recording an estimated yield of 38.02 t ha-1. From the present investigation it is noticed that the hybrid NBGH 676 could be considered as the best hybrid based on the highest yield recorded for this region.','Bitter gourd, F1, hybrids, per se performance, growth and yield attributes.','Based on the score value (Table 3) the hybrid NBGH 951 was found to superior with a score of 11 out of 16. However, based on the yield the bitter gourd hybrid NBGH 676 could be designated as the best with an yield of 4.11 kg vine-1, followed by NBGH 470 (3.88 kg vine-1). This particular hybrid NBGH 676 has been identified as a high yielding hybrid under Karaikal condition which is having biotic stress like salinity, this research study will be useful in suggesting the cultivation of this kind of hybrids in similar situation. Hence, the hybrid NBGH 676 could be commercially recommended for cultivation in this region','-','G.P. Prabakaran and V. Sundaram (2022). Studies on the Performance of Bitter gourd (Momordica charantia L) Hybrids for Growth and Yield Attributes. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 14(2): 512-516.'),(4893,'125','Determination of Mutagenic Effectiveness and Efficiency of Gamma Rays and EMS in Fenugreek cv. Rmt-1','Jyothsna J.*, Reena Nair, S.K. Pandey and A.K. Mehta','88 Determination of Mutagenic Effectiveness and Efficiency of Gamma Rays and EMS in Fenugreek cv.pdf','',1,'Fenugreek is a leafy vegetable as well as a spice, charged with medicinal properties. Owing to its inbreeding nature and traditional selection-based breeding methods adopted in the past, the available genetic variability available in the crop has become shrunken. Mutagenesis is a well-recognized tool to expand genetic variability. This investigation involves mutagenesis in fenugreek cv. Rmt-1 with physical (gamma rays) and chemical mutagens (EMS) and their combinations. The mutation frequency, mutagenic effectiveness and mutagenic efficiency based on lethality and injury of the seedlings were calculated for the gamma rays, EMS and their combination doses. The low and moderate doses of both gamma rays and EMS were found more effective than the higher doses. The highest doses of gamma rays and EMS with longer treatment duration resulted in the highest biological damage as lethality and injury of the seedling (220 Gy + EMS 0.30 % @ 8 hours). In the chemical mutagenic treatments, a longer duration hampered the effectiveness of the mutagens. The combination of gamma rays and EMS at lower and moderate doses expressed its worth to create higher mutation frequency by manifesting higher efficiency than the individual mutagens single-handed. The mutagenic efficiency based on lethality and seedling injury were maximum under  60 Gy + EMS 0.30% @ 6 h and EMS 0.25% @ 6 hours as 0.84 and 0.79, respectively. The interaction and influence of the individual mutagens in combinations were studied by the coefficient of interaction (k) and their interaction was found to be synergistic in nature.','Induced mutation, Gamma rays, EMS, Fenugreek, M2 population, mutagenic effectiveness and efficiency.','The present investigation was carried out to study the plant response as mutagenic effectiveness and efficiency of fenugreek cv. Rmt-1. Among the gamma rays, EMS and their combinations, EMS treatments were found to be more effective in mutagenicity. The combined treatments with both physical and chemical mutagens are found highly efficient with low biological damage. The effectiveness and efficiency of the mutagens were found to be declining with an increase in the mutagen dose. The moderate doses are found more effective and efficient than the higher doses. The longer treatment duration recorded the maximum biological damage and the lower effectiveness and efficiency. Therefore, optimum treatment duration is recommended. The determination of mutational frequency, effectiveness and efficiency enables appropriate decisions on the mutagenic doses for the future works.','-','Jyothsna J., Reena Nair, S.K. Pandey and A.K. Mehta (2022). Determination of Mutagenic Effectiveness and Efficiency of Gamma Rays and EMS in Fenugreek cv. Rmt-1. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 14(2): 517-523.'),(4894,'125','The Biology of Coccinella septumpunctata Linn. on cowpea aphid, Aphis craccivora (Koch)','Pooja Sharma*, D.K. Bairwa, Bhawani Singh Meena, Priyanka and Sushila Choudhary','89 The Biology of Coccinella septumpunctata Linn. on cowpea aphid, Aphis craccivora (Koch).pdf','',1,'The present research was carried out on in vitro mass multiplication, Larval feeding capacity on cowpea aphid, Aphis craccivora in laboratory condition (65 ± 5 per cent R.H. and 25±2°C) at Rajasthan college of agriculture, Udaipur (Rajasthan). A study of the biology of the lady bird beetle indicated a significant variation in incubation period, grub, pupal period and adult longevity. Likewise, the fecundity, pre-oviposition, oviposition and post oviposition also varied considerably. However the mean incubation period was 3.4±0.37, grub period, 13.82±0.76, pupal period, 6.9±0.54 and the adult longevity was 38.95±4.92 for males and 48.8±3.96 for females. Fecundity, pre oviposition, oviposition and post oviposition period were observed 259.8±19.67 eggs/female, 4.2±1.32, 37.7±6.88 and 4.1±1.29 days, respectively.','Coccinella septumpunctata, cowpea aphid.','The mean incubation period was 3.4±0.37, grub period, 13.82±0.76, pupal period, 6.9±0.54 and the adult longevity was 38.95±4.92 for males and 48.8±3.96 for females. Fecundity, pre oviposition, oviposition and post oviposition period was observed 259.8±19.67 eggs/female, 4.2±1.32, 37.7±6.88 and 4.1±1.29 days, respectively.','-','Pooja Sharma, D.K. Bairwa, Bhawani Singh Meena, Priyanka and Sushila Choudhary (2022). The Biology of Coccinella septumpunctata Linn. on cowpea aphid, Aphis craccivora (Koch). Biological Forum – An International Journal, 14(2): 524-526.'),(4895,'125','Evaluation of Biochemical properties of Traditional Nutri-cereals of Tamil Nadu','Jalapathi E.*, R. Jerlin, K. Raja, M. Raveendran and V. Thiruvengadam','90 Evaluation of Biochemical properties of Traditional Nutri-cereals of Tamil Nadu Jalapathi E.pdf','',1,'The minor millets or small millets have been renamed as “Nutri-cereals” in India. Nutri-cereals are extraordinarily tolerant to drought and other abiotic stresses, such as high temperatures and poor soils and also require minimum inputs for the growth. This makes them “climate smart” and a good source for genetic traits that can strengthen the resilience of other crops in the face of climate change. In developing countries, lack of dietary diversity is one of the key factors behind malnutrition and the prevalence of non-communicable diseases such as diabetes. Dietary fibre, minerals, carotenoids, flavonoids and polyphenols are abundant in nutri-cereals cultivars and consumption of these traditional nutri-cereals cultivars, on the other hand, benefits human health. Now-a-days, traditional varieties are gaining importance and it is cultivated by a large number of farmers. These varieties play a major role in the history of crop improvement and seed production. Hence, an experiment has been conducted to analyse the biochemical properties viz.,-amylase activity, dehydrogenase activity and total phenol content. Among the nutri-cereals tested, high -amylase activity and dehydrogenase activity were recorded by Periyurvathalmalai local (1.80 mg maltose min-1) and Varagu PGR (0.280) in Proso milletand Kodo millet respectively. The total phenol content was maximum in Varagu PGR (Kodomllet)with 17.58 µg /100g. Among the twelve traditional variety, Varagu PGR (Kodomllet) have the high secondary metabolites with improved seed quality. The results of this experiment revealed that the above traditional varieties have to be conserved to preserve its precious genome information due to their superior performance of -amylase activity and dehydrogenase activity as well as maximum phenol content.','Traditional nutri-cereals, -amylase activity, dehydrogenase activity, Total phenol content.','The present study emphasized on α-amylase activity, dehydrogenase activity and total phenol content of traditional nutri-cereals of Tamil Nadu. The α-amylase and dehydrogenase activity in traditional nutri-cereals seeds are important biochemical traits responsible for improving seed germination, vigour and viability, respectively. Total phenol content is the secondary metabolites which is responsible for playing a key role in pigmentations, plant growth and resistance to pathogens and antioxidant activity. Regarding the significance of consumer preference of traditional nutri-cereals, the information about these enzyme activities could aid in the conservation and multiplication of seeds and ultimately leads to increase in consumption. Among the twelve varieties, Varagu PGR (Kodomllet) have the high secondary metabolites with improved seed quality can be considered for future use in breeding programme.','-','Jalapathi E., R. Jerlin, K. Raja, M. Raveendran and V. Thiruvengadam (2022). Evaluation of Biochemical properties of Traditional Nutri-cereals of Tamil Nadu. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 14(2): 527-531.'),(4896,'125','Impact of Integrated Pest Management Practices on Fruit fly and Fruit Borers in Guava cv. Taiwan White','Giddi Thirumala Devi, N. Emmanuel, V. Sekhar, Priyanka Boruah and Kanchan Kumari Gupta','91 Impact of Integrated Pest Management Practices on Fruit fly and Fruit Borers in Guava cv.pdf','',1,'Among guava cultivars, Taiwan guava is the world\'s premier cultivar which can produce all year round. The nutritional content and yield of the guava is affected by more number of insect pests like mostly fruit fly and fruit borers. Due to the usage of vast chemicals, the insects are developing resistance against it and these chemicals sprayed are having an adverse effect on natural enemies and environment. So, here we implemented Integrated Pest Management practices which is free of toxic chemical spray against fruit fly and fruit borers and studied the impact of these practices against fruit fly and fruit borers. The experiment was conducted in established guava orchard of Dr. Y.S.R. Horticultural University, Andhra Pradesh during 2019-2020. The observations on fruit fly and fruit borers in Integrated Pest Management plot and control plot are taken on weekly intervals. The results shown the mean population of fruit fly maggots was 5.79 ± 1.17 per fruit in Integrated Pest Management plot, whereas in the control plot it was 11.31 ± 4.14 per fruit. The maximum mean fruit infestation per cent was recorded in control plot with 35.5 ± 13.95 per cent which was 42.7 per cent higher than in Integrated Pest Management plot with 14.01 ± 2.09 per cent. Lowest number larvae of Conogethes punctiferalis (1.04 ± 0.30 larvae per tree) and Deudorix isocrates (1.07 + 0.38 larvae per tree) were recorded in IPM plot with whereas, significantly high number of fruit borer larvae was recorded in control plot. ','fruit fly, fruit borers, IPM Plot, Control Plot and guava cv. Taiwan white.','The studies on the influence of IPM practices on the insect pests of guava cv. Taiwan white revealed that the mean population of fruit fly (B. dorsalis) maggots was 5.79 ± 1.17 per fruit in IPM plot, whereas in the control plot it was 11.31 ± 4.14 per fruit. The maximum mean fruit infestation per cent was recorded in control plot with 35.5 + 13.95 per cent followed which was 42.70 per cent higher than in IPM plot with 14.01 ± 2.09 per cent. The lowest number of C. punctiferalis larvae were recorded in IPM plot with 1.04 ± 0.30 number whereas, more number of larvae was recorded in control plot with 3.25 ± 1.25. The fruit infestation by C. punctiferalis was highest in control plot with 23.66 ± 9.46 per cent. The number of D. isocrates larvae per tree in IPM plot was recorded lowest with 1.07 ± 0.38 while, in control plot it was 3.03 ± 1.28. The minimum per cent fruit damage by D. isocrates was recorded in fruits grown in IPM plots with 9.87 ± 2.12 per cent whereas, in control plot it was 25.52 ± 7.94 per cent. In the present investigation, the reduction in number fruit infestation by fruit fly and fruit borers in IPM plots in contrast to control plots was mainly accredited to adoption of various IPM practices viz., collection and destruction of infested fruits, raking or ploughing the soil, bagging of fruits, application of Metarrhizium anisopliae to the soil, installation of methyl eugenol traps, light trap, erection of bird perch and need based application of bio agents and insecticides viz., NSKE 5% @ 3ml/lit, Neem oil @ 3 ml/L, B. thuringiensis @ 1 g/L at SMW, Spinosad @ 0.25ml/L. To sum up, guava cv. Taiwan white cultivated in IPM plot was found with minimum pest load and crop damage with higher marketable yield and better fruit quality which are safer for consumption and maintaining ecological balance','-','Giddi Thirumala Devi, N. Emmanuel, V. Sekhar, Priyanka Boruah and Kanchan Kumari Gupta (2022). Impact of Integrated Pest Management Practices on Fruit fly and Fruit Borers in Guava cv. Taiwan White. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 14(2): 532-539.'),(4897,'125','Management of Alternaria Leaf Spot of Cauliflower by using Plant Extracts','Kiran, Shailesh Godika, A.K. Meena, Shivam Maurya, Astha Sharma and Anil Kumar','92 Management of Alternaria Leaf Spot of Cauliflower by using Plant Extracts Kiran.pdf','',1,'Alternaria leaf spot caused by Alternaria brassicicola (Schwein) Wiltshire is one of the most destructive disease of the cauliflower (Brassica oleracea var. botrytis), causing high losses. The present investigations were taken for management of Alternaria leaf spot of cauliflower with botanicals. Result revealed that all the treatments significantly reduced the leaf spot disease incidence over control. Experiment was taken for the evaluation of efficacy of botanicals against A. brassicicola in in vitro as well as for the management of Alternaria leaf spot disease in field conditions. Six plant extracts at three concentrations viz., 5%, 10%, 20% were evaluated in In vitro conditions against A. brassicicola using poisoned food technique. Leaf extract of neem (Azadirachta indica) exhibited maximum inhibition (85.39 %) in mycelial growth followed by parthenium (79.22%). Plant extracts (10%) were applied as foliar application against the disease incidence under field conditions. Neem (Azadirachta indica) extract proved most effective in reducing the disease incidence (38.60%) followed by parthenium (Parthenium hysterophorous) (29.91%). Plant extract can play a major role in coming days for the management of plant diseases at large scale and protect the farmers from indebtedness by decreasing the cost of production.','Alternaria, Cauliflower, Disease, Botanical.','Among the tested plant extracts, Neem (Azadirachta indica) leaves extract was found most effective against A. brassicicola in in vitro conditions by inhibiting 85.39 per cent mycelial growth. Azadirachta indica leaf extract (10%) also found most effective in the management of the Alternaria leaf spot disease in field conditions by showing 38.60 per cent disease inhibition.','-','Kiran, Shailesh Godika, A.K. Meena, Shivam Maurya, Astha Sharma and Anil Kumar (2022). Management of Alternaria Leaf Spot of Cauliflower by using Plant Extracts. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 14(2): 540-545.'),(4898,'125','Morphological Characterization of Exotic Lines of Soybean (Glycine Max (L.) Merrill) for Developing Ideotype','Piyush Upadhyay, M.K. Shrivastava, Stuti Sharma, Sunny Thakur* and Kumar Jai Anand','93 Morphological Characterization of Exotic Lines of Soybean _Glycine Max _L.pdf','',1,'During Kharif 2019, at the Seed Breeding Farm, Department of Plant Breeding and Genetics, College of Agriculture, JNKVV, Jabalpur, forty-eight exotic genotypes of soybean, including two national checks, were characterized using the DUS (Distinctness, Uniformity, and Stability) traits as prescribed by National DUS test guidelines. At various phases, observations were made on the leaves, stems, flowers, seeds, and pods of plants. For the most part, there was a lot of variation in the qualities evaluated. The findings demonstrated that soybean germplasm has a wide range of features and that the genotypes gathered had a lot of morphological variation, which may assist a breeder to improve the plant\'s genetic foundation. This will be extremely helpful in identifying and conserving genotypes for identification on the basis of distinguishing morphological characters and help to develop ideal plant type.','Morphological Characterization, DUS test, Exotic Lines, soybean.','Genetic resources offer the foundation for selection and development via breeding to meet the world\'s constantly growing population\'s food security demands. Systematic characterization, on the other hand, leads to more efficient use of the material in the soybean improvement programme. Large variation in seed colour present in the germplasm has a high market price and high profitability to farmers. After determining the stability and heritability of the features, genotypes with this morphology can be chosen as a donor in the crossing procedure.','-','Piyush Upadhyay, M.K. Shrivastava, Stuti Sharma, Sunny Thakur and Kumar Jai Anand (2022). Morphological Characterization of Exotic Lines of Soybean (Glycine Max (L.) Merrill) for Developing Ideotype. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 14(2): 546-551.'),(4899,'125','Adoption of Package of Practices of Paddy Cultivation by the Farmers of Odisha under BGREI Programme','Dipti Rekha Pujari, Bhumireddy Chandhana and Sagar Mondal','94 Adoption of Package of Practices of Paddy Cultivation by the Farmers of Odisha under BGREI Programme Dipti Rekha Pujari.pdf','',1,'The Bringing Green Revolution to Eastern India (BGREI) programme was implemented in 2010-2011, under the RKVY programme, to promote rice based cropping systems in Eastern India. The study was conducted in Sonepur district of Odisha with a sample of 90 BGREI beneficiary farmers were selected from two blocks namely Binka and Dunguripali. Ex post facto research design was used. Data had been gathered via interview schedule. The study revealed that majority of the beneficiaries had a medium level of adoption. The correlation analysis between the ten variables and the farmers’ adoption level, which was used as a the dependent variable, revealed that out of the ten independent variables, five variables showed positive significance at 0.01 level of probability with the level of adoption of the beneficiary farmers and the remaining five variables showed no significance. The findings can be used by the state agriculture authorities, researchers, and policy makers to develop and adjust the program in order to increase farm level adoption of recommended paddy farming practices.','Adoption, Beneficiary, Correlation, Input, Productivity.','According to the findings of the study, majority of the beneficiaries (66.67%) had a medium level of adoption, followed by low (18.89 %) and high (14.44 %). From the correlation analysis, it was found that education, land holding, social participation, extension contact and mass media exposure were the major contributing independent variables towards adoption level of the paddy farmers. The state department of agriculture extension workers and scientists involved should conduct mass awareness campaigns, method demonstrations, and results demonstrations as appropriate means of reaching a large audience and creating awareness among farmers about the proper package of paddy cultivation practices and to show the worthiness of various practices so that the farmers can easily adopt them without any difficulty.','-','Dipti Rekha Pujari, Bhumireddy Chandhana and Sagar Mondal (2022). Adoption of Package of Practices of Paddy Cultivation by the Farmers of Odisha under BGREI Programme. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 14(2): 552-554.'),(4900,'125','Host Plant Resistance for Effective Management of Banded Leaf and Sheath Blight in Maize caused by Rhizoctonia solani f. sp sasakii','Poonam Yadav, S.S. Sharma, Poonam Kumari and Amit Kumar','95 Host Plant Resistance for Effective Management of Banded Leaf and Sheath Blight in Maize caused by Rhizoctonia solani.pdf','',1,'Host plant resistance is eco-friendly, economic and durable source of resistance for a crop disease management. Banded Leaf and Sheath Blight (BLSB) caused by the fungus Rhizoctonia solani f. sp sasakii is serious disease of maize distributed round the world in maize growing areas. The current predominant form of pathogen, which can cause yield losses of up to 43% or more. Screening of germplasm through artificial inoculation is one important way to get the potent sources of resistance against any disease and score of disease gave an idea of source of resistance. Total of 131 entries were selected from different groups i.e. early maturity, medium maturity set-1, maturity set-2 , late maturity, sweet corn, baby corn, and QPM. Screening was done by artificial inoculation under field conditions in kharif 2020 and 2021. Out of 102 entries 34 maize entries were found to be resistant to the disease, 36 entries were moderately resistant, 22 entries were moderately susceptible, 8 entries were determined to susceptible and 1 entries was highly susceptible and also 1 entries highly resistant. ','Maize, management, Pathogen, Rhizoctonia, Resistance.','Eco-friendly management of BLSB control is great aspect in lowering the utilization of pesticides for managing the plant disease. Stable source of resistance can be identified by screening of the germplasm lines or screening of germplasm by artificial inoculation and score of disease give an idea of source of resistance.','-','Poonam Yadav, S.S. Sharma Poonam Kumari and Amit Kumar (2022). Host Plant Resistance for Effective Management of Banded Leaf and Sheath Blight in Maize caused by Rhizoctonia solani f. sp sasakii. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 14(2): 555-559.'),(4901,'39','Study of some Historical Monuments in Srinagar City','Sayar Ahmad Dar and A. S. Arya','30 Study of some Historical Monuments in Srinagar City SAYAR AHMAD DAR 1142.pdf','',1,'The history of any area is an indication of the rich past of that place. The historical monuments of Srinagar are a reflection of the rich heritage and culture of the city. These buildings are true representation of the style, era of construction and designing. The beautiful motifs engraved in these historical monuments represent the quality of craftsmanship as well as the hard work that has been done in the past by different Kings. These buildings are built of stones that are crafted into some beautiful pieces of art, long before technology is really appreciable. The great planning in these monuments gives an idea about the art and architect of the past, even without the use of major software’s that are used today for design. The historical monuments are true representation of art, craft, planning and vision that were used by the rulers. However, today these monuments are not in its original position due to the conditions prevailing in the valley and the negligence of concerned authority.','Monuments, heritage, culture, planning, history','The city of Srinagar is a hub of different monuments that is true reflection of art and architecture. These monuments have been built by different rulers over the period of time in order to preserve the art and culture of the valley. However, currently they are not in their original form and most of them have been damaged to greater extent. Concerned authorities have taken measures to renew most of the monuments, but were not preserved as they should have been. Hence, there is an urgent need for the conservation and preservation of these monuments. ','I. INTRODUCTION\r\nThe state of Jammu & Kashmir has many historical and archaeological legacy that represents its tradition and culture. There has been a very exclusive and glorious tradition of the people of the State of preaching and worshipping of each other\'s religions and pilgrimage centers [1]. There are well-renowned Muslim and Hindu shrines co-existing that are held in greatest regard by the people of every faith. Buddhism, mostly in Ladakh region of the State, has its origin in the valley and was preached and disseminated by the Kashmiri scholars in its earlier days [2]. These ancient monuments are the wonderful examples of this communal harmony in pilgrimage centres like the one at Hari Parbat where monuments of all three religions - a temple, mosque and gurudwara are standing side by side. Monuments are a vital part of any state of Jammu & Kashmir, and to conserve them is duty of each citizen of the state [3]. Some of the important shrines and monuments of Srinagar city are discussed in this paper.\r\nShankaracharya temple \r\nDuring the rule of Lalitaditya, The first work of restoration is considered to have taken place. The temple was hit by earthquake several times. During the reign of Sheikh Mohi-ud-Din, the second maintenance was done by Zain-ul-Abideen who was governor at that time. Maharaja Gulab Singh built the stone staircases which leads towards the main shrine [5]. In 1925, under the rule of Maharaja Gulab Singh, the facility of electricity was made possible at Shankracharya Temple. There is a lot of controversy among the various archeologists regarding the date of Shankarachraya temple in recent century. General Cunningham and Lieut. Cole relegated it to the period of Jalauka ( 220 B.C.) but the statement given by both the scholars has been rejected because of the suspicious character of the convention. Another great scholar Fergusson stated, that the main shrine of Shankaracharya was constructed during the rule of Jahangir. He says that \"some anonymous Hindus started the work of sanctuary as it presently stands. to pay tribute to Siva, amid the tolerant rule of Jahangir; and that the building was halted at the date engraved at the staircase, A.H. 1069 (A.D. 1659), when Aurangzeb became the ruler of India the whole work of the shrine was barred because he was a staunch and bigoted ruler he want to run the country according to sharia. He never tolerated other religions and destroyed most of temples of hindus in various parts of India when he went to Kashmir in 1665 [6]. He renamed the main shrine as Takt-Souliman, the Throne of Solomon.\" Presently the Shankaracharya temple is too much famous all over the world [17]. Various tourists of India as well as of foreigners come to here to see the famous view of the main shrine. Now the temple was under the consideration of shrine board. \r\nKhanqah-e-Molla or Shah-e-Hamdan\r\nThe Khanqah-e-Molla or Shah-e-Hamdan is situated on the streams of the river Jhelum in Srinagar city. It is considered as An important holy destination not only in Srinagar, but in whole valley. This Khanqah-e-Molla shrine was originally built in 1395 and later in 1732 it was once again reconstructed. The architecture that draws inspiration from Buddhist, Hindu and Islamic architectural styles [20]. Believed that the Khanqah-e-Molla is an excellent example of wood architecture. Sultan Sikander (1389-1413 AD) constructed Khanqah-e-Molla in memory of their beloved Sufi saint Mir Syed Ali Hamdan, who visited in Kashmir at various occasions for the spread of Islam in Kashmir. In 1480 Khanqah-e-Molla was caught by fire, and Sultan Hassan Shah reconstructed it once again in 1493. Again the shrine got damaged in 1731, Abul Barkat Khan reconstructing it in 1731. The material which is used for the construction of Khanqah –e-molla carried from the destroyed temples, an arcaded balcony and double-arcaded verandahs that run continuously around the building [17]. The pyramidal Parts of the roof have got covered with regular undergrowth vegetation, creating a unique sight of terraced flowerbeds and intricate woodwork. \r\nThe shrine of the saint at Khanqah-e-Molla marking the saint\'s death is carved above the doorway lies in at the corner of the structure [16].\r\nPather Masjid\r\n\"Of the Mughal style as exemplified by structures in Kashmir it isn\'t important to state much, in light of the fact that the style is basically the same as that at Agra, Delhi, and Lahore. The main contrasts which present themselves are that a nearby dim limestone was for the most part utilized as a part of Kashmir for confront work; and white marble, owing no uncertainty to the troubles of transport, is barely at any point seen\'\' [15]. This stone is a magnificent material for moldings and for cutting, and is fit for accepting a high clean, as is affirmed by the columns in the structure at Shalimar. Of the Mughal mosques in Kashmir, the Patthar Masjid, \"The Stone Mosque,\" purported in contradistinction to the indigenous wooden mosques of the valley, is the biggest surviving illustration. The exterior comprises of nine curves, including the vast angled patio in the inside. \r\nThe curved openings are encased in shallow beautifying cusped curves, which in their turn are encased in rectangular casings. The level development of these curves is wonderful. Every one of them have as of late been shut everything down rubble stone brick work. The half-joined \"bedpost\" sections in the two external points of the pillars of the passage are important. The plinth, which is currently generally underground, [18] is surmounted by a lotus-leaf adapting. The frieze between the anticipating cornice and the roof is brightened with a progression of vast lotus leaves, cut in help, some of which have been punctured, and in this way made to fill the need of ventilation openings. A flight of ventures in every frame of the passageway offers access to the rooftop, which is, as regular in Kashmir, inclining, aside from in the inside, where there was initially a vault which was later destroyed by the Sikhs. The rooftop comprises of twenty-seven vaults, the focal one of which is the biggest. The arches are generally ribbed inside, however there are some which are level or wagon-vaulted. The rooftop is bolstered inside on eighteen exceptionally gigantic square sections having projections on two sides. The lower segment of the segments is worked of stone and the upper of block secured by a thick layer of buff-shaded lime mortar. The nook divider is worked of block stone work, with a layer of lime mortar, decorated by a scope of shallow curved niches [19]. The mosque is said to have been worked in A.D. 1623 by the Empress Nur Jahan. There is a convention that, being once addressed with respect to the cost of its development, she indicated her jeweled shoes and answered, \"As much as that.\" The joke was accounted for to the mullahs, who collectively declared that by this profane suggestion the mosque had turned out to be befouled, and was unfit for religious utilize. Therefore the Patthar Masjid has never been utilized as a position of petition [8].\r\nSeveral furlongs let down the waterway, between the fourth and the fifth scaffolds, is the Sri Ranbir Ganj, the busiest and most vital exchanging bazaar in Kashmir. Close it are seen the high and enormous vaults of the tomb of the mother of Zain-ul-abidin, transcending far over the gabled tops of the encompassing houses. The most appealing section in the historical backdrop of the Muslim administer in Kashmir is the rule of Zain-ul-abidin (1421-1472). He was a benefactor of expressions of the human experience and ventures, and as tolerant to his Hindu subjects as his dad, Sikandar But-shikan, was extremist [18]. Be that as it may, however he is said to have every so often influenced journeys to Hindu to hallowed places, he doesn\'t appear to have scrupled in utilizing Hindu stays for his own motivations. The superstructure alone of his mom\'s tomb was raised by him. The plinth with its fileted torus cornice is totally Hindu; so is the trefoiled passageway it’s still undisturbed gigantic pillars. In design it is square, with the edges cut off and supplanted by rectangular projections. The superstructure takes after a similar arrangement, and comprises of a solitary chamber in the center with projections recessed inside at the edges, roofed over by five arches, the biggest normally being in the middle. \"It’s essential highlights are the coated and formed blue blocks, which are studded at interims in the outside dividers, the crescent block projections, on the drum of the principle vault, and the shaped stringcourses and sunk boards on the drums of the domes\". The wooden lintels of the ventilation gaps are strikingly all around saved [9]. Inside, dangling from an iron plate appended to the pinnacle of the focal arch, is an iron chain which has offered ascend to the misguided judgment, regular among the Hindus of Kashmir, that the structure in its present shape was initially a Panchamukha (five-confronted or five headed) sanctuary, such chains being typically found in Hindu sanctums, joined to the foremost ringer. Instantly toward the north of this building is a Hindu fenced in area divider with portal, which contains various tombs, one of which is said to save the remaining parts of the lord himself. This divider, similar to that of the Sankaracharya sanctuary, has been the question of much debate [22]. Cunningham and Cole credited it to a date as right on time as the fourth or fifth century A.D. This hypothesis was challenged by Fergusson, who, on the quality of the likeness of the scaled down curves which adorn this divider to comparative embellishing highlights in Muslim engineering, kept up that it was worked by the Muslims themselves at the time they raised the tomb. In any case, it is plausible that Cunningham and Cole, who really observed it, were closer reality than Fergusson, who judged just from photos. The divider is a genuine Hindu one, as its materials and hugeness abundantly demonstrate, however it is without a doubt later than the fifth century A.D. An additional verification of its Hindu cause is the quantity of cut stones still found round the site, which bear molded reliefs of Hindu divinities. The entire gathering is encased in a huge stone divider with a furrowed adapting. This external divider, and additionally its two doors, one on the riverside and the other opening out and about, in like manner go back to Hindu circumstances. Since the season of Zain-ul-abidin this walled in area has been utilized as a burial ground, and huge numbers of the notabilities of Muslim Kashmir are entombed here, among them the acclaimed Tartar intruder Mirza Haidar Gurgan, the cousin of Babar, who made his first strike into Kashmir from Turkistan and involved it a moment time for the sake of Humayun, amid the last\'s outcast from Hindustan. The accompanying engraving on his gravestone gives the date of his demise (A.H. 958= A.D. 1551). \r\nTomb of Pir Haji Muhammad Sahib \r\nNot as much as a large portion of a mile from the vestiges portrayed above, while in transit to the Jama\' Masjid by method for Safa Kadal, is another walled in area with a structure in the inside, which is presently doing obligation as the tomb of Pir Haji Muhammad, a Muslim holy person. In design it is like the tomb of Zain-Ul-Abidin\'s mom, the main distinction being this has two flights of steps confronting east and west, and the last has special case, which faces west [7]. There is almost certainly that the plinth and the sides of the superstructure, as they are at show, are in their unique position, and have never been messed with. The spaces between the stone pilasters at the corners have been filled in with screen dividers of kanjur brick work, the bigger sides of which are finished remotely with three shut boards. This seems to have been a later expansion. An inquisitive reality about this structure is that the two flights of steps are likewise later augmentations, however without a doubt they have been transplanted from some Hindu site. Confirmation for this guess is outfitted by the way that the cornice of the plinth, a cyma recta, isn\'t reinforced with the brick work of the stairs, and that cut stones clearly not initially expected for the reason have been utilized as a part of the mean[17]. In the eastern corner of the patio is a littler fenced in area parceled off from the fundamental region; this likewise contains a trefoiled specialty and some fluted sections. There is a little square Muslim block tomb inside the compound divider. The situation of these vestiges proposed to Sir Aurel Stein their \" conceivable personality with the sanctuary of Vishnu Ranasvamin which Kalhana says as established by King Ranaditya. This sanctuary probably delighted in significant big name up to a relatively late period.\'\' \r\nJama\' Masjid \r\nThe historical backdrop of the Jama\' Masjid of Srinagar is an independently checkered one. Its unique origination and erection are credited to Sikandar But-shikan, who reigned in Kashmir from A.D. 1390-91 to 1414-15. He is said to have established its framework in A.D. 1398 and finished it in 1402. His renowned child Zain-ulabidin is accounted for to have extraordinarily endeavored in adding to its stylish attractions [10]. He likewise settled an Islamic school as a limb to the mosque, and invested it with homes to empower it to settle the cost of upkeep. In A.D. 1479 a vast blaze decreased it to fiery debris, and the then ruling sovereign, Sultan Hasan Shah, set about its remaking with more noteworthy magnificence. Shockingly the ruler kicked the bucket before finishing his assignment, which was conveyed to an effective end in A.D. 1503 by Ibrahim Magre, Commander-in-Chief of the Kashmir powers, in the rules of Muhammad Shah and Fateh Shah. In the year 1620, in the rule of Jahangir, an extreme blaze again broke out in Srinagar and wrecked twelve thousand structures, among them the Jama\' Masjid. The ruler, who is expressed to have been in Kashmir at the time, instantly coordinated its recreation, which was grasped close by and finished in the space of seventeen years. Malik Haidar of Tsodur, the student of history of Kashmir, was endowed with the execution of the work [11]. The engraving on the southern passage, [17] which was raised about this time, gives the historical backdrop of the mosque up to this date. Notwithstanding rebuilding of the mosque the head presented considerate awards of land, for its upkeep, as well as to give subsistence remittance to the overseers. I\'taqad Khan, a commonplace legislative head of Kashmir amid the rule of Shah Jahan, was a gross despot. The ruler on a visit to Kashmir rejected him, and selected Zafar Khan, the child of the Prime Minister, Asaf Khan, as his successor. The last drew up a rundown of the abnormalities rehearsed in Kashmir by his ancestor, and submitted it to the ruler, who in an illustrious farman, or announcement, coordinated remission of all the negligible exactions which the previous nearby governors had dispensed upon the tenants of the valley. The illustrious farman was engraved on a square of dark marble and set up on the correct mass of the southern portal of the Jama\' Masjid, for the advantage of the general population. The report is of unprecedented intrigue, not just in light of the fact that it represents the ways and intends to which some corrupt governors, skilled with more creativity than inner voice, had plan of action in their flurry to store up a fortune, yet additionally as a decent declaration to the head\'s anxiety for the welfare of his removed Himalayan reliance. In A.D. I674 the mosque was for the third time crushed by flame. It is expressed that when the sovereign Aurangzeb knew about the mishap, his first enquiry was whether the chinars were sheltered; for he said \"the mosque could be remade in a brief span; a full-developed chinar can never be immediately supplanted\". He inspired every one of the bricklayers and artisans of the city into his administration, and had the mosque finished inside the brief time of three years [15]. In his reclamation it is obvious, both from the building itself and on the expert of history, that the Mughal entirely clung to the arrangement of the first mosque of Sikandar Butshikan. Aurangzeb appears to have spent an extensive entirety of cash on plating and other transitory frivolity of - the mosque. From the season of Aurangzeb down to 1914 the auxiliary history of the mosque is a record of consistent rot [12]. The erratic repairs by the Afghan governors did not capture its descending advancement to demolish. In the prior piece of the Sikh administration in Kashmir the mosque was shut and its entryways were obstructed. After a time of twenty-one years, it was revived by Ghulam Muhi-ud-racket, the Sikh Governor, who spent about a lakh and a half of rupees on its repair. In Dogra times endeavors were more than once made to place it into repair, yet they don\'t appear to have prompted any apparent outcome. Since the year 1913, be that as it may, the Muslims of Kashmir, considerably supported by an allow from His Highness\' Government, have put for The mosque is a quadrangle and generally square in design, its northern and southern sides being 384\' long. Its primary highlights are the four minars, one amidst each side. They are secured by a progression of pyramidal rooftops, which end in an open turret delegated by a high zenith. All these minars, aside from that toward the west, which contains the platform, cover open curved passages which are plain however exceptionally forcing. The southern passageway appears, as now, to have dependably been the one most regularly utilized. This is borne out by the way that the engravings - among them Shah Jahan\'s farman, which would normally be set and no more frequented spot in the mosque - have been incorporated with the mass of this passage. The top of each minar was bolstered on eight wooden sections, 50\' in stature and more than 6\' in size, whose cutting edge substitutes still remain on the first square limestone bases. The segments are plain and unornamented. The minars are associated by extensive corridors, the important component of which is the huge swath of 378 wooden segments which bolster the rooftop [17]. \r\nFour Minars of Jamia Masjid\r\nThe western minar contrasts from its allies of the other three sides in having marginally bigger measurements and two stairs, one in every pillar of the curve, offering access to the rooftop and each surmounted by a little block arch. The gachh (gypsum) mortar is inartistic and of late date. The compound is cut up by two expansive ways, arranged after the way of a formal Mughal cultivate [13]. At the purpose of their crossing point has been constructed a little and inconsequential barahdari. Some time ago a little channel which entered through the eastern passage used to encourage the expansive, however now frail, tank in the compound. The waterway fell into neglect when the Srinagar waterworks framework was organized. Its place is presently taken by a common P.W.D. water-supply. The dilute from the tank streams a little fancy stone chute, and going out of the channel leaves the mosque by an underground entry in the west divider. After a wandering course of a fourth of a mile the quite little rill, now supplanted by the standard drains, exhausted itself into the Mar trench. The streamlet was in presence as of late as thirty years back, and bore the name of Lachhma-kul. It was initially brought from the Sindh by King Zain-Ul-Abidin, and its first name was Zaina-Ganga. The most enchanting component of the compound, aside from the independently forcing part of the arcaded andHasan Shah\'s rules. In any case, there is by all accounts little uncertainty that a few, if not every one of them, are of later development [16].\r\nHari Parbat Fort \r\nThe slope of Hari Parbat, delegated by the Pathan fortress which is noticeable from all aspects of the city, has from time immemorial been a position of awesome holiness in Kashmir. The name is what might as well be called the Sanskrit sarika-parvata, \"the slope of Sarika\" (har = Indian maina). Legend, confirmed by present day science, advises us that the valley was, in ancient circumstances, a tremendous lake, which more likely than not been a standout amongst the most excellent on the planet. In this lake abided the water-evil spirit Jalodbhava [14]. The Sarikamahatmya lets us know, by chance, the tale of the thrashing and obliteration of this evil presence: how the creature fashioned destruction among the mountains of the neighboring locale, yet being immune in his own particular component, and declining to battle off guard ashore, proceeded with his life of theft in impudent security for quite a while; how the divine beings smoldered and raged in feeble fierceness, lastly made plans to lay the issue before the Almighty Mother Sati, the controller of the titanic powers of nature; how she accepted the type of a Sarika winged animal (maina) and taking a stone in her mouth dropped it at the spot where she knew the devil was lying, calmed into false security; lastly how the rock swelled into tremendous extents and pulverized the devil by its weight [23]. The rock right up \'til the present time gets by under the name of Hari Parbat, and a gloom in the ground outside the Sangin Darwaza of the fortification divider is called attention to as the spot wherefrom the gasping breath of the evil spirit constrained out, as he was battling under the devastating weight over him. The legend includes that the divine beings in appreciative memory of their deliverance took up their residence, which represents the way that each individual stone, huge and little, on this slope is reverenced by the conventional Brahmans as the delegate of one of the thirty-three crores of divine beings which involve the Hindu pantheon. \r\nAs per custom, which is as yet living, the development of the Hari Parbat, or, as Akbar named it, Nagar-Nagar, defense was begun as a help work, to mitigate the trouble of the general population amid a starvation. The student of history Suka states that the head, on becoming aware of the hardship caused upon the residents by the troops, who for need of convenience had been quartered upon them, had a cantonment based on the slants of the Hari Parbat slope, which from that time turned into a fiourishing settlement. Bernier, who saw it seventy five percent of a century later, talks about it as \"a segregated slope, with attractive houses on its inclination, each having a garden\" [18].\r\nAkhun Mulla Shah\'s Mosque \r\nThe little mosque arranged a little far up the slope underneath the place of worship of Makhdum Sahib was worked by the crown ruler Dara Shikoh, child of Shah Jahan, for his mentor Akhun Mulla Shah. It is worked of an excellent dim limestone [18]. The stone lotus finial over the lectern is the main case of its kind getting by in Kashmir. The main outside designs are the rectangular boards encasing cusped curves. \"Its arrangement is solitary, the outline of the supplication chamber being rehashed on the east side of the patio and shaping the portal. On the north and the south sides of the yard are arcades, regarded similarly as the wings of the petition chamber. Generally the arcades round the quadrangle before a mosque are dealt with uniquely in contrast to any piece of the petition load. The fairly confined extents of the yard for this situation might be because of the slant of the slope on which it stands, and the trouble which would have been knowledgeable about influencing the supplication to chamber more extensive. \'\'On a lower level are the remnants of the curved lobbies wherein travelers used to hold up. Somewhat further off is the hammam, which is presently shut everything down. On the lintel of its entryway is the accompanying engraving [17]: \r\nTarikh-I hammam-o masjid-I Sultan Dara Shikoh \r\nHammam-I tu o masjidat ai dida baz \r\nGarm ast yake jama\'at pardaz \r\nTarikh-I bina-I har du ra goyad Shah Yak ja-wazu amad-o yak ja-I namaz.\r\nMosque and Tomb of Madin Sahib \r\nAmong the pre-Mughal Muslim structures of Kashmir, a standout amongst the most conspicuous is the mosque of Madin Sahib at Zadibal. It is additionally intriguing as it shows to flawlessness the manner by which the early Muslims utilized the materials of the Hindu sanctuaries. The gathering of structures at Vitsarnag and various others strewn about the city have a place with this arrangement. The base is square and is constructed altogether of materials having a place with a plinth of a medieval sanctuary. Indeed, even the plan of courses is indistinguishable with that of the normal sanctuary base [3]. The superstructure comprises of four dividers, enhanced remotely with trefoiled block specialties. The upper thwart is pointed, yet on account of the bases, and are surmounted by capitals which are absolutely Hindu in style. The spandrels of the curves of the specialties are designed with lovely tracery work. Their entablature is particularly Hindu. The cornice over the dividers is made out of about six courses of wood, the most unmistakable component of which is the twofold arrangement of dentils and metopes, the last bearing fragile open-work cutting. Over these are the overhang, pyramidal earth and birch-bark rooftop congested with a wilderness of white and blue irises. On the peak of the pyramid was the tower, the main remainders of which that exist are a solitary long upright shaft and a couple of bits of timber. The passage to the mosque is, obviously, through the east divider. The wooden entryway is extravagantly cut, and is flanked by two fluted stone sections initially having a place with the abutting Hindu remnants. The inside is plain. The roof of khatamband (thin bits of wood worked into geometrical examples) is bolstered on four multi-sided wooden sections. Toward the north of the mosque is the tomb of the holy person. In old circumstances it more likely than not exhibited a splendid scene, as its whole divider surface was improved with coated tiles, a large portion of which have sadly been expelled and sold out of Kashmir. A couple of sections are saved in the Pratap Singh Museum, Srinagar [5]. At the point when Nicholls of the Archeological Survey of India went by Kashmir in 1905, he discovered significant parts of the tile beautification in great safeguarding. The left spandrel of the passageway curve was decorated with an extremely first rate portrayal of a mammoth with the body of a panther, changing at the neck into the storage compartment of an individual, shooting obviously with a bow and bolt at its own tail, while a fox is discreetly looking on among blossoms and \"cloud-shapes\". The \"cloud-frames\" are basic in Chinese and Persian workmanship. The important monster in the photo is around 4 feet long, and strikes a significant heraldic state of mind. The human chest, shoulders, and head are lamentably absent. The last parts in a sort of mythical beast\'s head. Concerning the hues, the foundation is blue, the storage compartment of the man is red, the panther\'s body is yellow with light green spots, the mythical serpent\'s head and the fox are rosy dark colored, the blooms are of different hues. Other than the spandrels there is more tile-work in the building. The pillars of the passage are fixed with squares, huge numbers of which have dropped out and been returned in the wrong place. None of these is of any exceptional enthusiasm, with the exception of that they demonstrate that tile-work was utilized on workmanship structures in Kashmir before Mughal days. There is, in any case, a fascinating limited outskirt over the dado on the east veneer speaking to a streaming botanical example intertwined with the heads of jackasses and lions. Both the tomb and the mosque were worked in memory of a similar individual, and the engraving on the lintel of the passage of the mosque records the date of its erection as A.H. 888 (A.D. 1483) in the rule of Zain-ul-abidin. The tomb may have been manufactured a couple of years after the fact, however it isn\'t unthinkable that it was worked in the meantime as the mosque, for among Muslims the act of building tombs amid the lifetime of their future inhabitants isn\'t phenomenal. Around these two structures, and in transit amongst them and the Sangin Darwaza of the fortification, there are various Hindu stays, all of which have intolerably endured on account of the maverick. A considerable lot of them have been changed over into mosques, however even these last have now fallen into desuetude. \r\nPari Mahal\r\n The striking gathering of angled patios roosted higher up on the mountain slant toward the west of Chashma-I-Shahi is Pari Mahal, \"the pixies\' homestead,\" destroyed garden royal residence, the development of which is credited bytradition to the badly featured sovereign Dara Shikoh, who was decapitated in 1659 by request of his sibling Aurangzeb. Regardless of its frail condition, it is anything but difficult to decide its central highlights; for the garden has, most likely inferable from its trouble of access, got away from the rebuilding to which the other Mughal cultivates in Kashmir have been subjected. Pari Mahal varies from other Kashmir plants in that it doesn\'t have any falls or water chutes, however it appears to be likely that there were wellsprings in the tanks. Water was primarily directed by underground earthen funnels, however a couple of hints of vast water-courses have additionally been found. The garden comprises of six patios, with an aggregate length of around 400\'. \r\nThe width of the patios shifts from 179\' to 205\'. In the highest patio are the remnants of two structures, a Barahdari confronting the lake, and a water store worked against the mountainside. The repository was bolstered from above by a spring, which has since gone dry, and of which the main surviving remains are the fragmentary stone channel and the holding divider against the slope side. It is a basic chamber, worked of rubble stones in lime, with a veneer of two little curves. Inside it gauges 11\' 3\" by 5\', and has a break in every one of its dividers. Water coursed through a curved deplete penetrated in the front divider which is presently mostly obstructed. At each side of the patio divider is a flight of steps prompting the lower porch, estimating 22\' 3\" by 4\' 3\". Amidst the second porch precisely before the Barahdari is a huge tank with block sides estimating 39\' 6\" by 26\' 6\". The veneer of the holding divider is ornamented with a progression of twenty-one curves, including two of the side-stairs. The curves are worked in diving request of range from the inside. Every one of them is surmounted by a specialty, the stature of which increments in extent to diminish in the tallness of the curve. The focal curve is secured with a layer of fine painted mortar, which appears to have dependably filled in as a most loved board for jotting sees in pen and pencil. Different individuals have recorded on this the date of their visit to the garden. Among them was the pitiless Azad Khan, a Pathan Governor.\r\n His amanuensis, Malik Sabir Munshi, has engraved the accompanying sentence in dark ink: \r\n\" Batarikhi bist-o nuhum mahi Rabi-us-sani s. 1199. Ittifaq bahamrahi sawari kasir-ul-iqtidar Sardar Azad khan nazim-I soba-I Kashmir mutabiq sair-o shihr warid-I in makan farhat asar gardidah\" Faqir haqir Malik Sabir Munshi [17].\r\nThis porch appears to have been screened off from the lower court by a parapet divider, which is as yet surviving in parts. The third patio is, structurally, the most intriguing segment of the garden. The passage, which is of the standard Mughal write, angled in front and behind with a focal domed chamber, is amidst the east divider, and is secured with a layer of fine painted mortar. On either side of it are a progression of open rooms: the one to its north appears to have been the hammam. Sections of the water-pipe are still to be seen anticipating from an edge of its domed roof. Its inside is the most very adorned of the considerable number of rooms in Pari Mahal. On the south side of the passageway are two different chambers, however it is hard to state to what utilize they were put. The western portion of the holding divider has as of late fallen; certainly it likewise contained chambers like those on the opposite side. In the focal opening of the arcade is noticeable the initially shrouded earthen pipe which passed on water from the porch above. From it the water coursed through an open channel and an underground pipe, which ran one next to the other, and entered the Barahdari at the center of the expansive end of the patio. Without a doubt the divert shaped a tank in the focal point of the foremost load and afterward discharged itself into the pipe which ran underground, of which follows are as yet unmistakable on the floor of the Barahdari [22].\r\nWater reservoir inside the Pari Mahal\r\nIt is plausible that these three porches were saved exclusively for the ruler\'s private utilize. The fourth porch has nothing striking in it aside from the vestiges of the tank - maybe it was a tank inside a Barahdari - whose plinth extends a long ways past the line of the divider. About the center of its north divider is the earthen pipe which directed water to the porch underneath. In the fifth patio an inquisitive component of the plinth of the barahdari, or the tank, of the upper porch is the various square openings with which the upper portion of its surface is punctured. They were likely planned to harbor runs of pigeons. The holding divider is arcaded. The arcade is a twofold, the upper column of curves confronted a hall which kept running on the two sides of the plinth of the Barahdari. The 6th and the last porch have a rectangular tank in the center and octagonal bastions at the closures. The lower end isn\'t upheld by any holding divider. The demolished structure a couple of yards beneath appears to have been proposed for a sort of a watch house [18].\r\n','Sayar Ahmad Dar and A. S. Arya (2018). Study of some Historical Monuments in Srinagar City. International Journal on Arts, Management and Humanities, 7(1): 178-184.'),(4902,'125','Incidence of Pomegranate Wilt in Southern Karnataka, India','Navyashree S.E.*, Devappa V., Sangeetha C.G., Shankarappa T.H., Jayashree Ugalat, Honnabyraiah M. K. and Shivanna M.','96 Incidence of Pomegranate Wilt in Southern Karnataka, India Navyashree S.pdf','',1,'Pomegranate (Punica granatum) is one of the commercially important fruit crops of India. Wilt caused by Ceratocystis fimbriata Ell. and Halts is one of the major production constraints affecting its cultivation in all major growing areas of the country. Therefore, roving survey was conducted during 2018-19 and 2019-20 in major pomegranate growing southern districts of Karnataka viz., Bengaluru Rural, Bengaluru Urban, Ramanagara, Chamarajanagara, Tumakuru and Chitradurga to pin down the status of the disease and results revealed that, wilt incidence was noticed in all the locations surveyed and it was ranged from 2.00 - 31.67 per cent. Maximum mean wilt incidence of 13.20 per cent was observed in Tumakuru district followed by Chitradurga (10.24 %) whereas; the least mean wilt incidence was recorded in Ramanagara district (3.20 %). Among nine taluks surveyed, the maximum wilt incidence was noticed in Sira taluk (22.50 %) of Tumakuru district followed by Hosadurga taluk (15.67 %) of Chitradurga district. Among the villages surveyed, the wilt incidence was found highest in Thogaragunte village (31.67 %) of Sira taluk of Tumakuru district followed by Kurubarahalli village (20.00 %) of Hosadurga taluk of Chitradurga district while, it was found lowest in Vijayapura village (2.00 %) of Devanahalli taluk of Bengaluru Rural district. ','Disease incidence, Pomegranate wilt, Survey, Ceratocystis fimbriata.','— Wilt affected pomegranate plants produced typical symptoms of yellowing and drooping of foliage of one or few branches of plants. In severe cases, the defoliation and complete wilting of plants were observed within 2-3 months. \r\n— Pomegranate wilt incidence was varied from 2.00-31.67 per cent in the areas surveyed. The mean wilt incidence (13.20 %) was more in Tumakuru district followed by Chitradurga (10.24 %) whereas; the least incidence was recorded in Ramanagara district (3.20 %). ','-','Navyashree S.E., Devappa V., Sangeetha C.G., Shankarappa T.H., Jayashree Ugalat, Honnabyraiah M. K. and Shivanna M. (2022). Incidence of Pomegranate Wilt in Southern Karnataka, India. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 14(2): 560-567.'),(4903,'125','Evaluation of different Doses of Nitrogen on the Incidence of Hyadaphis coriandri in Fennel','Renu Choudhary, H.L. Deshwal, Bishana Ram and Amar Chand','97 Evaluation of Different Doses of Nitrogen on the Incidence of Hyadaphis coriandri in Fennel Amar Chand.pdf','',1,'The field experiments was carried out to study the effect of different doses of nitrogen on the incidence of Hyadaphis coriandri on fennel at the Research farm College of Agriculture, Swami Keshwanand Rajasthan Agricultural University Bikaner, (Rajasthan) during Rabi 2016-17 and 2017-18 by planting fennel variety RF-125. Five levels of Nitrogen, i.e. 50, 75, 100, 125 and 150% were applied. Sampling for aphid, H. coriandari (Das) was done weekly from last February to end of March. The significant increase in the incidence of aphid, H. coriandari has been recorded with increasing application of nitrogenous fertilizers. The maximum incidence of aphid on fennel was observed on 150 % of RDN, while it was minimum with 50 % of RDN and maximum yield was recorded with 100 % of RDN. Highest yield was observed in 100 % RDN whereas, it was minimum was in 50 % of RDN. So in future this could be interesting area for deep study to see the effect of different doses of nitrogen on the incidence of H. coriandari in fennel.','Fennel, aphid, Hyadaphis coriandri, nitrogen and RDN.','Five levels of Nitrogen, i.e. 50, 75, 100, 125 and 150% were applied. Sampling for aphid, H. coriandari (Das) was done weekly from last February to end of March. The significant increase in the incidence of aphid, H. coriandari has been recorded with increasing application of nitrogenous fertilizers. The maximum incidence of aphid on fennel was observed on 150 % of RDN, while it was minimum with 50 % of RDN and maximum yield was recorded with 100 % of RDN','-','Renu Choudhary, H.L. Deshwal, Bishana Ram and Amar Chand (2022). Evaluation of Different Doses of Nitrogen on the Incidence of Hyadaphis coriandri in Fennel. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 14(2): 568-572.'),(4904,'125','Morpho-physiological Characterization of Maize (Zea mays L.) Genotypes against Drought','Pramod Kumar Yadav, A.K. Singh, M.K. Tripathi, Sushma Tiwari and Jaya Rathore','98 Morpho-physiological Characterization of Maize _Zea mays L._ Genotypes against Drought Pramod Kumar Yadav.pdf','',1,' Maize is an imperative grain crop used as a staple food in several countries around the world. Water deficiency is a serious problem limiting its growing area, production and productivity. Maize is moderately sensitive to drought distressing all aspects of growth and development starting from germination to maturity. Drought stress, particularly at flowering stage, has been recognized as the most crucial factor limiting production and productivity in India. Enlightening drought tolerance in maize has become one of the top urgencies in maize breeding programmes. In present investigation, 80 genotypes of maize including 66 hybrids, 12 parents and 2 checks (drought tolerant HKI1105 and drought susceptible HKI1128) were grown under irrigated and partial irrigated condition in a randomized block design (RBD) with two replications. The observations were recorded for turgid weight (TW), Relative water content (RWC), Saturation water deficit (SWD), Membrane stability index (MSI) and grain yield. Under irrigated condition grain yield per plant ranged from 42.11 to 113.73g with a mean value of 71.06. While under partial irrigated condition grain yield per plant ranged between 40.33 to 105.17g with an average worth of 68.08g.Under both conditions, correlation studies of grain yield per plant showed significant and positive correlation with relative water contents (RWC) while negative correlation was observed with turgid Weight (TW), saturation water deficit (SWD) and membrane stability index (MSI). Among all 80-maize genotypes, ten maize genotypes viz., IL11 × IL12, IL1 × IL7, IL7 × IL8, IL3 × IL10, IL6 × IL7, IL7 × IL12, IL2 × IL7, IL6 × IL12, IL4 × IL6 and IL3 × IL11 displayed increased values in respect to all morpho-physiological parameters i.e., turgid weight (TW), relative water content (RWC), saturation water deficit (SWD), membrane stability index (MSI) including grain yield under drought condition. Moreover, Correlation analysis along with other indices was proved to be a useful approach for rapid and cost-efficient screening of large numbers of genotypes against drought stress condition.','Maize, drought, RWC, SWD, MSI, TW and grain yield.','Based on mean data, under both irrigated and partial irrigated conditions ten genotypes namely:IL11 × IL12, IL1 × IL7, IL7 × IL8, IL3 × IL10, IL6 × IL7, IL7 × IL12, IL2 × IL7, IL6 × IL12, IL4 × IL6 and IL3 × IL11 displayed better response in respect to all studied morpho-physiological parameters along with grain yield. These genotypes may serve as valuable starting materials or parents to develop drought tolerant cultivars with having higher yield potential. Under both conditions, correlation studies of grain yield per plant shows significant positive correlation with relative water contents while negative correlation was observed with turgid weight, saturation water deficit, and membrane stability index.\r\n','INTRODUCTION \r\nZea mays L. is a staple food possessing the highest yield potential among the cereals and it is known as queen of cereals. It plays an important role in livelihood of millions of poor farmers. Since it is a short-day plant with C4 type of photosynthesis; the crop has very efficient utilization of solar radiation. However, it is very sensitive to excess or deficit soil moisture. Most of the world maize area is grown under rainfed conditions and it is more susceptible to drought than other cereals (Hall et al., 1981). At a cellular level, drought signals promote stomatal closure to save water, stimulate the production of stress-protectant metabolites, upregulate the antioxidant system, and deploy peroxidase enzymes to prevent acute cellular damage and loss of membrane integrity (Gupta et al., 2020; Liu et al. 2021; Choudhary et al., 2021a; Choudhary et al., 2021b; Choudhary et al., 2021c; Mishra et al., 2021 a; Mishra et al., 2021 b; Mishra et al., 2021 c; Sharma et al., 2021). Crop yield is vulnerable when drought conditions occur during the reproductive phase of plant growth. Although grain yield (GY) when plants subjected to water stress is the final target trait employed to assess the degree of drought tolerance, correlated traits, such as ASI and kernel number per row (KNR), are considered to have a higher heritability and thus may be more suitable as target traits for improving maize drought resistance (Monneveux et al., 2008; Jia et al., 2020; Liu et al., 2021). About 67% of the total maize production in the developing countries emanates from low and lower middle-incomenations. Moisture stress is one of the major constraints in maize productivity and it is very common in the areas, where, maize is predominantly grown under rainfed condition. Drought at any stage of crop improvement affects production, but maximum damage is inflicted when it occurs during flowering stage. Effect of drought stress includes delayed silking and female sterility caused by embryo abortion (Moss and Downey, 1971, Aslam et al., 2013; Bibhu et al., 2020) resulting huge reduction in grain yield. It was estimated that annual yield loss due to drought may be close to 24 million tones and it is equivalent to 17 % of a normal year’s production in a developing world. \r\nDue to increased demand of maize, there should be an intensive effort should be made to increase maize production in the changing climatic conditions, particularly related to water stress, salinity, extreme temperature regimes etc. Selection for best performing genotypes under stress condition is the primary objective for any crop improvement programme (Thiry et al., 2016; Wattoo et al., 2018; Makwana et al., 2021; Mishra et al., 2021d; Mishra et al., 2021e; Mishra et al., 2021f). Assessment of germplasm line (s) against abiotic stresses like heat and drought under natural field conditions is tough owing to uncertain environmental conditions like rainfall and humidity (Zafar et al., 2017; Wattoo et al., 2018; Choudhary et al., 2021a; Choudhary et al., 2021b). The task turns into more challenging when dealing with huge number of germplasm lines owing to necessity of large area, labor, resources and long time period. On the other hand, its rapid evaluation can be done at early growth stages under controlled environmental conditions based on many growth and physiological parameters (Zafar et al., 2017; Wattoo et al., 2018). An array of morphological, physiological and biological features of higher plants show adaptability in response to water stress. Existence of variability for drought tolerance in different plant species has been reported (Frova et al., 1999; Guttieri et al., 2004; Wattoo et al., 2018). Numerous growth related morpho-physiological traits have been potentially employed for evaluating genotypes of different crops against water stress (Taiz and Zeiger, 2006; Ali et al., 2009; Chohan et al., 2012; Javed, 2012; Wattoo et al., 2018; Rajpoot et al., 2020; Choudhary et al., 2021a; Choudhary et al., 2021b; Mishra et al., 2021a; Mishra et al., 2021b).\r\nPresent study was conducted with the objectives to screen genotype (s) on the basis of various morpho-physiological parameters related to drought tolerance which can perform well under limited water conditions.\r\nMATERIALS AND METHODS\r\nA. Plant material and growth conditions \r\nThe seeds of 12 maize inbred lines were acquired from Sam Higgonbottom Agriculture Science and Technology University, Prayagraj, U.P., India. A crossing programme initiated with 12 maize inbred lines following half diallel analysis (Jinks and Hayman, 1954) to raise 66 F1hybrids. These 66 hybrids along with two checks (drought tolerant HKI1105 and drought susceptible HKI1128) and parents total 80 entries were included in this study (Table 1) and were evaluated at Research Farm, Department of Genetics &Plant Breeding, College of Agriculture, Gwalior, M.P. during Rabi season, 2019-20. The experiment was conducted under irrigated and partial irrigated condition and laid out in a randomized block design (RBD) with two replications. Each genotype was sown in 2 rows of 4 meters with a spacing of 60 cm between rows and 20 cm between plant to plant.\r\nDrought stress was imposed from 10 days before flowering by with-holding irrigation. The irrigation was resumed when soil moisture reaches temporary wilting point. The characters like Turgid weight (TW), Relative water content (RWC), Saturation water deficit (SWD) and Membrane Stability Index (MSI) were calculated for samples collected from a single competitive plant per replication per genotypes and grain yield/ plant (GY/P) was calculated on plot basis(g). Relative water content (RWC) is considered one of the important physiological parameters to assess the water content in plants during stressed and control condition and calculated by the formula: RWC = (FW — DW/ TW—DW) × 100 where, Fresh weight of plant (g), DW = Dry weight of plant (g), TW = Turgid weight of plant (g). Turgid weight (TW) was determined after floating of plants on water overnight at room temperature. Saturation water deficit (SWD) (%) was calculated after subtracting the value of RWC from 100. Membrane stability index (MSI) was estimated taking two sets of 200 mgs of leaf sample in test tube containing 10 ml of double distilled water. One set was heated at 40°C for 30 min in a water bath to record the electrical conductivity (C1) of the solution by an electrical conductivity meter. Second set was subjected to 100°C on a boiling water bath for 15 min to measure its conductivity (C2) as explained above. Membrane Stability Index was calculated by formulae MSI = [1 — {C1/C2}] × 100 as proposed by Razzaq et al. (2013). Where, Cl = electrical conductivity of water containing the leaf sample in set one and C2 = electrical conductivity of water containing the leaf sample in set two. The cobs from randomly selected five plants were dried, shelled, cleaned and weight of grains was recorded and expressed as grams and considered as grain yield per plant (g).\r\nRESULT AND DISCUSSION\r\nDrought stress encourages an assortment of morpho-physiological changes in plants in order that plants are capable to broaden tolerance mechanisms. Drought tolerance is the result of abundant morphological, anatomical and physiological parameters which interrelate with continuation of growth and developmental progressions. Relative aptitude for drought tolerance of maize genotypes may be arbitrated by guesstimating numerous morpho-physiological traits for instance fresh weight, dry weight, turgid weight, relative water content, saturation water deficit and membrane stability index. Water saturation deficit, relative water content (RWC) and leaf water loss are the main physiological measures that maneuver plant water relations and used to evaluate drought tolerance in plants (Kachre, 2017;Kachre et al., 2019; Mishra et al., 2021a).\r\nA. Morpho-physiological characterization of genotypes under irrigated and partial irrigated conditions\r\nAmong all 80 maize genotypes under irrigated condition grain yield per plant ranged between 42.11g to 113.73 g with a mean value of 71.06g. Ten genotypes viz., IL1 × IL7, IL11 × IL12, IL3 × IL10, IL6 × IL7, IL7 × IL8, IL7 × IL12, IL4 × IL6, IL2 × IL7, IL6 × IL12 and IL3 × IL11 showed better response in respect to morpho-physiological traits along with grain yield (Table 2). Turgid weight ranged from 0.16 to 0.26 with an average worth of 0.21. Relative water content varied between 48.82% to 89.44% with a mean value of 72.88. While saturation water deficit arrayed between 10.57 to 51.19 with a mean worth of 27.12. Whereas, membrane stability index fluctuated between 1.78 to 58.91 with a mean value of 25.78. \r\nUnder partial irrigated condition grain yield per plant arrayed between 40.33g to 105.17g with a mean worth of 68.08g.Ten genotypes viz., IL11 × IL12, IL1 × IL7, IL7 × IL8, IL3 × IL10, IL6 × IL7, IL7 × IL12, IL2 × IL7, IL6 × IL12, IL4 × IL6 and IL3 × IL11 displayed better response in respect to different morpho-physiological parameters along with grain yield (Table 2), Turgid weight ranged from 0.16 to 0.26 with an average worth of 0.21. Relative water content varied between 48.36% to 90.17% with a mean value of 72.33%, while saturation water deficit arrayed between 9.83 to 51.65 with an average value of 27.67 and membrane stability index varied between 1.34 to 78.56 with a mean worth of 31.57.\r\nBased on these findings, it is clear that the drought tolerant genotypes giving more yield under drought condition. Similar results were also reported by Homayoun (2011); Kachre et al. (2019); Mishra et al. (2021 a). Among all 80-maize genotypes under irrigated and partial irrigated conditions, ten genotypes viz., IL11 × IL12, IL1 × IL7, IL7 × IL8, IL3 × IL10, IL6 × IL7, IL7 × IL12, IL2 × IL7, IL6 × IL12, IL4 × IL6 and IL3 × IL11 exhibited better response in terms of all morpho-physiological parameters along with grain yield.\r\nThe inter se correlations of grain yield per plant (GY/P) with an individual morpho-physiological trait e.g., turgid weight, relative water content, saturation water deficit and membrane stability index have been presented in (Table 4 and 6). Saturation water deficit revealed significant and positive association with grain yield indicating favorable response towards yield. But turgid weight, relative water content and membrane stability index exhibited significant and negative correlation with grain yield. Similar results were alsoaddressed by Good et al. (1993); Magorokosho et al. (2003); Kachre et al. (2019); Mishra et al. (2021a); Sharma et al. (2021).\r\nB. Correlation Coefficient (Under Irrigated Condition)\r\nAt the phenotypic level. The details of the phenotypic correlation coefficients between grain yield and its attributing characters are presented in the Table 3. Turgid weight displayed significant and positive correlation with SDW (0.0835) while significant and negative correlation with RWC (-0.0835) tracked by MSI (-0.1504) and GY/P (g) (-0.0724). Relative water content showed significant and positive correlation with GY/P (g) (0.0138) while significant and negative correlation with SWD (-1.0002) pursued by MSI (-0.0119). Saturation water deficit exhibited significant and positive correlation with MSI (0.0119) whereas significant and negative correlation with GY/P (g) (-0.0138). MSI displayed significant and negative correlation with GY/P (g) (-0.1638). Whilst grain yield per gram showed significant and positive correlation with RWC (0.0138). Whereas it displayed negative correlation with TW (-0.0724), SDW (-0.0138) and MSI (-0.1638).\r\nAt the genotypic level. Correlation coefficients between grain yield and its accrediting parameters have been described in the Table 3. Turgid weight showed significant and positive correlation with SDW (0.0823) while significant and negative correlation with RWC (-0.0823) tracked by MSI (-0.1503) and GY/P (g) (-0.0727). Relative water content revealed significant and positive correlation with GY/P (g) (0.0142) whereas significant and negative correlation with SWD (-1.0002) trailed by MSI (-0.0122). Saturation water deficit exhibited significant and positive correlation with MSI (0.0122) whilst significant and negative correlation with GY/P (g) (-0.0142). Membrane stability indexshowed significant and negative correlation with GY/P (g) (-0.1641). GY/P (g) showed significant and positive correlation with RWC (0.0142). Whereas it had negative correlation with TW (-0.0727), SDW (-0.0142) and MSI (-0.1641).\r\nC. Phenotypic path coefficient analysis\r\nPhenotypic path coefficient analysis revealed higher R2 (0.0365) value and residual effect (0.9816) indicating exploitation of phenotypic variation in response to irrigated condition. The phenotypic direct and indirect effects of various traits on yield per plant are presented in Table 4.\r\nPhenotypic path coefficient analysis revealed that RWC (0.0034) had the highest positive and direct effect on SY/P (g) followed by SWD (0.0002). However, maximum negative and direct effect on seed yield per plant was documented through MSI (-0.1787) and TW (-0.0989). The indirect effects of turgid weight showed a positive and indirect effect on grain yield per plant via RWC (0.0083), tracked by MSI (0.0149) and negative and indirect effect on yield per plant via SWD (-0.0083). Relative water content displayed a positive and indirect effect on seed yield per plant via MSI (0.0003), negative and indirect effect on yield per plant via SWD (-0.0034) pursued by TW (-0.0003). Saturation water deficit displayed positive and indirect effect on seed yield per plant via RWC(0.0004) trailed by TW (0.0001) and MSI (0.0001). Membrane stability index demonstrated positive and indirect effect on seed yield per plant via TW (0.0269) tracked by RWC (0.0021) and it showed negative and indirect effect on seed yield per plant via SWD (-0.0021).\r\nD. Correlation Coefficient (Under Partial Irrigated Condition)\r\nAt the phenotypic level. The details of the phenotypic correlation coefficients between grain yield and its attributing characters are presented in the Table 5. Turgid weight displayed significant and positive correlation with SDW (0.0701) while significant and negative correlation with RWC (-0.0701) tracked by MSI (-0.0109) and GY/P (g) (-0.069). Relative water content displayed significant and positive correlation with MSI (0.1319) followed by GY/P (g) (0.0232) whilst significant and negative correlation with SWD (-1.0002). Saturation water deficit showed significant and negative correlation with MSI (-0.1319) tracked by GY/P (g) (-0.0232). Membrane stability index exhibited significant and negative correlation with GY/P (g) (-0.0871). However, Grain yield per plant in gram displayed significant and positive correlation with RWC (0.0232), whereas it exhibited negative correlation with TW (-0.069), SDW (-0.0232) and MSI (-0.0871).\r\nAt the genotypic level. Correlation coefficients between grain yield and its ascribing characters has been designated in the Table 5. Turgid weight exhibited significant and positive correlation with SDW (0.0689) while significant and negative correlation with RWC (-0.0689) followed by MSI (-0.011) and GY/P (g) (-0.0694). Relative water content displayed significant and positive correlation with MSI (0.1323) tracked by GY/P (g) (0.0237) whilst significant and negative correlation with SWD (-1.0002). Saturation water deficit showed significant and negative correlation with MSI (-0.1323) perused by GY/P (g) (-0.0237). Membrane stability index displayed significant and negative correlation with GY/P (g) (-0.0873). Whilst grain yield per plant in gram showed significant and positive correlation with RWC (0.0237). Whereas it exhibited negative correlation with TW (-0.094), SDW (-0.0237) and MSI (-0.0873).\r\nPhenotypic path coefficient analysis. Phenotypic path coefficient analysis discovered higher R2 (0.0134) value and residual effect (0.9933) demon starting exploitation of phenotypic variation in response to under partial irrigated condition. The phenotypic direct and indirect effects of diverse parameters on yield per plant are presented in Table 6. Phenotypic path coefficient analysis exposed that RWC (0.0306) had the highest positive and direct effect on SY/P (g) followed by SWD (0.0001). However, maximum negative and direct effect on seed yield per plant was documented through MSI (-0.0919) and TW (-0.0678). The indirect effects of turgid weight exhibited a positive and indirect effect on grain yield per plant via RWC (0.0048), tracked by MSI (0.0007) and negative and indirect effect on yield per plant via SWD (-0.0048). Relative water content displayed a positive and indirect effect on seed yield per plant via MSI (0.004) and negative and indirect effect on yield per plant via SWD (-0.0306) trailed by TW (-0.0021). Saturation water deficit showed positive and indirect effect on seed yield per plant via RWC (0.0002) tracked by TW (0.0003) and MSI (0.0002). Membrane stability index exhibited positive and indirect effect on seed yield per plant via SWD (0.0121) tracked by TW (0.001) and it showed negative and indirect effect on seed yield per plant via RWC (-0.0121). \r\nIt was evidenced that water scarcity unpleasantly disturbs plant growth and designate more fluctuations in dry weight of maize. As the stomata close in response to low water supply, there is low CO2 fixation. Apart from reducing cell division and enlargement, water stress is testified to be restrictive to almost all aspects of cellular metabolism. The result in decrease in dry matter production and yield is apparent in present investigation which is harmony to research of Kachare (2017). Sharifa et al. (2015) and Mishra et al. (2021a) also recognized decreased fresh weights with drought stress in soybean genotypes. In many other studies, osmotic stress also instigated a significant decrease in fresh weight of soybean genotypes (Hamayun et al. 2010; Sepanlo et al., 2014; Kachare et al., 2019; Mishra et al., 2021b). \r\nRWC is considered as a protruding physiological trait to envisage tolerance against drought stress. Drought stress causes water loss within the plant and results in relative water content (RWC) reduction. This parameter is one of the most persistent and broadly employed indicator for defining both the sensitivity and the tolerance to water deficit in plants (Rampino et al., 2012). Computation of RWC enables in the approximation of the metabolic action in leaf tissues which is then considered as an integrated measure of plant water standing. In the present investigation, RWC steadily diminished with susceptible genotypes in comparison to tolerant genotypes. The reducing tendency of relative water content for all the genotypes may be accredited towards the reduction in external water potential (Datta et al., 2011). All the genotypes displayed significant variations in RWC which advised that diverse cultivars have different threshold levels to retain the water status (Datta et al., 2011). In the current investigation, RWC was higher in those genotypes may be drought tolerant as anticipated by Hossain et al. (2014); Sepanlo et al. (2014); Kachare (2017); Mishra et al. (2021b). \r\nIn this research, all the susceptible genotypes displayed significant higher values of SWD, nevertheless, tolerant genotypes revealed lower value of SWD as compared to susceptible one. Souza et al. (2013); Kachare et al. (2019); Mishra et al. (2021a) addressed analogous trend in SWD for the soybean genotypes.\r\nOn the basis of these findings, it is clear that the drought tolerant genotypes giving more yield under drought condition with increased value of turgid weight relative water content, saturation water deficit and membrane stability index. Similar results were also reported by Homayoun (2011). Under both conditions, correlation studies of grain yield per plant showed significant positive correlation with relative water contents (RWC) while negative correlation was evident with turgid weight, saturation water deficit, and Membrane stability index (MSI). Similar results also reported by Good et al. (1993); Magorokosho et al. (2003). Furthermore, correlation analysis along with other indices was proved to be a useful approach for rapid and cost-efficient screening of large number of genotypes against drought stress condition.','Pramod Kumar Yadav, A.K. Singh, M.K. Tripathi, Sushma Tiwari and Jaya Rathore (2022). Morpho-physiological Characterization of Maize (Zea mays L.) Genotypes against Drought. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 14(2): 573-581.'),(4905,'125','Extraction of Carotenoids from Carrot and Pumpkin using different Solvent Proportions','Athira Surendran, K. Sudha, B. Murugan and Rita Narayanan','99 Extraction of Carotenoids from Carrot and Pumpkin using different Solvent Proportions Athira Surendran.pdf','',1,'The study aimed to extract carotenoids from carrot (Daucus carota) and pumpkin (Cucurbita moschata) by using different proportion of solvents such as ethanol, acetone and hexane. Different proportions of solvents (ethanol, acetone, hexane, ethanol: hexane in the proportion (1:1, 2:1.5, 4:3), ethanol: acetone in the proportions (:1, 2:1.5, 4:3) and acetone : hexane (1:1, 2:1.5, 4:3) were used to optimize the extraction procedure. The total carotenoids were identified using UV spectrophotometer method. The detected carotenoids were high in carrots when compared with pumpkins in all the solvent proportions. Furthermore, results obtained from the total carotenoid content and yield showed that ethanol, acetone, hexane, ethanol: acetone in the proportions (:1, 2:1.5, 4:3) had low yield and total carotenoid content and this differed from that with acetone : hexane in the proportion (4:3)( 24.96 %, 30.06 mg/g) for carrots and (22.41 %, 16.83mg/g) for pumpkins. Meanwhile the same extracted with ethanol: hexane (4:3) had presented comparatively high yield (15.90 %, 27.55 mg/g) for carrot and (16.08 %, 12.08 mg/g) for pumpkins. Nevertheless, extraction of carotenoids from carrots and pumpkin was found to be optimized in the solvent proportion acetone: hexane (4:3).','carotenoids, carrot, pumpkin, ethanol, acetone, hexane, yield, total carotenoid content.','According to the findings of this investigation, T12 was the optimal solvent proportion for extracting carotenoids from carrots and pumpkin. As a result, it produced more yield and total carotenoid content. In T12, carrots had a higher carotenoid content than pumpkin. As a result, carotenoids may be extracted from carrot and pumpkin using acetone and hexane (4:3).','-','Athira Surendran, K. Sudha, B. Murugan and Rita Narayanan (2022). Extraction of Carotenoids from Carrot and Pumpkin using different Solvent Proportions. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 14(2): 582-586.'),(4906,'125','Growth of Sweet Corn Hybrids (Zea mays saccharata) as Influenced by Soil and Foliar Application of Zinc','Altaf Hussain Lone, Tahir Ahmad Sheikh, Tanveer Ahmad Ahngar, Bilal Ahmad Lone, Zahoor Ahmad Baba, Showkat Maqbool, Mohd Salim Mir, Zahida Rashid, A. A Saad, Waseem Raja, Z. A Dar and Sabeena Nasseer','100 Growth of Sweet Corn Hybrids _Zea mays saccharata_ as Influenced by Soil and Foliar Application of Zinc Tanveer Ahmad Ahngar.pdf','',1,'One third of the world population is reported to be at the risk of zinc malnutrition due to inadequate dietary intake of zinc. A field experiment entitled “Performance of sweet corn hybrids (Zea mays saccharata) as influenced by soil and foliar application of zinc” was conducted during kharif 2018 at the Experimental Farm of the Division of Agronomy, Wadura, SKUAST-K. The experiment comprised of two factors with three sweet corn hybrids, viz., Sugar 75, FSCH 75 and CMVL SC and four zinc levels, viz., soil application of ZnSO4 @ 20 kg ha-1, soil application of ZnSO4 @ 15 kg ha-1 + ZnSO4 (0.5%) foliar spray at knee high stage, soil application of ZnSO4 @ 15 kg ha-1 + ZnSO4 (0.5%) foliar spray at tasseling stage and ZnSO4 @ 15 kg ha-1 + ZnSB @ 200 ml/kg of seed laid out in randomized complete block design (RCBD) with three replications. The results of the experiment revealed that among different sweet corn hybrids, Sugar 75 produced significantly higher growth parameters, viz., plant height, leaf area index, dry matter accumulation and mean crop growth rate compared to other sweet corn hybrids whereas FSCH 75 recorded significantly lowest growth parameters. Among different zinc levels, soil applied ZnSO4 @ 15 kg ha-1 + ZnSO4 (0.5%) foliar spray at knee high stage recorded significantly higher growth parameters whereas soil applied ZnSO4 @ 15 kg ha-1 + ZnSB @ 200 ml/kg of seed recorded lowest growth parameters. ','sweet corn, zinc, hybrids, growth.','From the findings of the present investigation it can be concluded that in order to achieve better growth of sweet corn, The hybrid Sugar-75 applied with recommended dose of fertilizer along with the application of ZnSO4 @ 15 Kg ha-1 (soil) + ZnSO4 (0.5%) Spray at knee high stage is suitable','-','Altaf Hussain Lone, Tahir Ahmad Sheikh, Tanveer Ahmad Ahngar, Bilal Ahmad Lone, Zahoor Ahmad Baba, Showkat Maqbool, Mohd Salim Mir, Zahida Rashid, A. A Saad, Waseem Raja, Z. A Dar and Sabeena Nasseer (2022). Growth of Sweet Corn Hybrids (Zea mays saccharata) as Influenced by Soil and Foliar Application of Zinc. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 14(2): 587-593.'),(4907,'125','Attitude of Farmers Towards Pradhan Mantri Fasal Bima Yojana','Shubham Bhadoriya, Shobhana Gupta, Yagya Dev Mishra, Shubham Singh Rathour and Poonam','101 Attitude of Farmers Towards Pradhan Mantri Fasal Bima Yojana Shubham Bhadoriya.pdf','',1,'Crop insurance is a necessary crop loss coverage facility to be acquired by farmers and agricultural producers to defend them to counter the causalities due to natural calamities. One Nation–One Scheme is the theme of Pradhan Mantri Fasal Bima Yojana (PMFBY). PMFBY provides a widespread insurance cover against failure of the crops and helps in stabilizing the income of the insured farmers. There are very less number of study reports on PMFBY impacts as this is a new scheme; therefore, a study is required to find out the attitude of farmers towards PMFBY scheme to obtain the feedback of the scheme. Hence, a study was conducted to access the impact and attitude of farmers towards PMFBY.\r\nThe present study was carried out in Bhitarwar block of Gwalior district of MP in the year 2018-2019, to know the attitude of farmers towards Pradhan Mantri Fasal Bima Yojana (PMFBY). The study revealed that 51.67 percent of the insured farmers belonged to medium level of attitude followed by high (29.16%) and low (19.17%) level of attitude towards Pradhan Mantri Fasal Bima Yojana. The data indicates that the respondents’ characteristics namely education, land holding, annual income, social participation, farming experience, utilization of information sources, contact with extension workers, risk orientation and economic motivation were positively and strongly correlated at 0.01 level of probability while age was positively correlated at 0.05 level of probability with attitude of responded farmers towards PMFBY. ','Attitude, Crop Insurance, Farmers, PMFBY, Relationship.','The study assessed the attitude of farmers towards PMFBY scheme in Gwalior districts of Madhya Pradesh. Our findings concluded that majority of farmer’s attitude level was found to be medium followed by high level and only small group of farmers possess low attitude level. The respondent’s characteristics namely education, land holding, annual income, social participation, farming experience, utilization of information sources, contact with extension workers, risk orientation and economic motivation were positively and strongly correlated with attitude. Age was positively correlated with attitude of responded farmers towards Pradhan Mantri Fasal Bima Yojana. For future prospects, study on PMFBY can be done on a large area or region to access about its success or failure and efficiency which would be more helpful for suggesting necessary improvements to the Government and agencies involved','-','Shubham Bhadoriya, Shobhana Gupta, Yagya Dev Mishra, Shubham Singh Rathour and Poonam (2022). Attitude of Farmers Towards Pradhan Mantri Fasal Bima Yojana. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 14(2): 594-599.'),(4908,'125','Effect of Salinity/Sodicity on Soil Fertility Status of Northern Saurashtra Coastal Region of Gujarat','Kiran Yadav, K B Parmar and Bhorania Nirali','102 Effect of SalinitySodicity on Soil Fertility Status of Northern Saurashtra Coastal Region of Gujarat Kiran Yadav.pdf','',1,'In present time, salinity and alkalinity of the soils are serious problems in India as well as in Gujarat. These soils are usually supposed to be originated as a result of high water table, arid and semi-arid weather, ingress the sea, water, saline nature of barren materials, poor drainage and salt deposition through wind-blown particles. This poor quality of water decrease the soil productivity and finally reduce the crop yield. Looking to the importance of above views, an investigation was carried out to study the quality of underground wells/tube wells water and their effect on soil properties of Northern Saurashtra coastal region (Jamnagar, Devbhumi Dwarka and Porbandar district) of Gujarat by collecting grid based 141 surface soil samples and each 285 irrigation water samples on pre and post monsoon from the farmer’s cultivated field during May, 2019 at the distance (0-5, 5-10, 10-15, 15-20 km) from coastal line. To study the fluctuation in water quality, only water samples were collected twice i.e. pre-monsoon (May, 2019) and post-monsoon (December, 2019).\r\nAll the soil samples were analyzed for EC and pH from saturated and dilute (1:2.5) extract. The EC, pH were determined as per the methods described by Richards (1954). Saturation paste of soil was prepared as described by Richards (1954) and found that in salinity parameters, EC, ESP, SSP and SAR were decreased, while pH was slightly increased with increasing the distance from sea coast. The overall highly significant correlation of ECe with EC2.5 (r = 0.8012**) and pHs with pH2.5 (r = 0.4004**) were observed. The highly significant correlation coefficient between SOC and N (r = 0.7798**), ESP and ECe (r = 0.6531**), ESP and EC2.5 (r = 0.6050**) were observed in soil samples. \r\nThe correlation among fertility parameters (SOC, available N, P2O5, K2O and S) and salinity/sodicity parameters (EC2.5, ECe, pH2.5 and pHs) in soils of 0 to 20 km distance from sea coast indicates that EC2.5 was significant and positively correlated with ECe, SSP, SAR and ESP and pH2.5 was significant and positively correlated with pHs, SOC, available N, K2O and S','EC, SOC, pH2.5, fertility and correlation.','Present study indicates that groundwater of study area is contaminated, so reclamation of water is essential to do before its use for agriculture production. Almost all well/ tube well water samples (Pre & Post monsoon) of Northern Saurashtra coastal region having higher amount of soluble salts mainly due to dominance of Na and Cl ions, however, all the quality parameters viz., EC, pH, SSP, RSC and ESP of collected well/tube well water samples after monsoon were improved as compared to the samples collected before monsoon','-','Kiran Yadav, K B Parmar and Bhorania Nirali (2022). Effect of Salinity/Sodicity on Soil Fertility Status of Northern Saurashtra Coastal Region of Gujarat. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 14(2): 600-606.'),(4909,'125','Effect of Different Temperature and Relative Humidity Regimes on the Germination of Blastospores of Taphrina deformans (Berk.) Tul.','Vinay Kumar Kardam, A.K. Gupta, Arti Shukla and S.K. Sharma','103 Effect of Different Temperature and Relative Humidity Regimes on the Germination of Blastospores of Taphrina deformans _Berk._ Tul.pdf','',1,'Peach (Prunus persica L. Batsch.) is one of the most important stone fruit crops grown extensively in the temperate, sub-temperate and subtropical regions of the world. The leaf curl caused by Taphrina deformans (Berk.) Tul. is the most serious disease of peaches which counts for loss in quantitative and qualitative yield. Cool wet weather with intermittent rains favours the development of the disease especially during bud swell to bud opening stage. The effect of different temperature (0-30°C) and relative humidity levels (80.5 -100 per cent) were studied on the germination of blast spores of peach leaf curl fungus Taphrina deformans. It was observed that the per cent germination increased up to 20°C after which a decline in germination per cent was recorded. Maximum germination per cent of 70.73 was observed at 20°C. The germination per cent decreased with decreasing relative humidity maximum (69.05 %) being at 100 per cent relative humidity','Taphrina deformans, temperature, relative humidity, blastospores germination.','For the germination of blastospores optimum temperature and relative humidity was recorded. It was observed that per cent germination increased up to 20ºC after which a decline in germination per cent was recorded. Maximum germination per cent of 70.73% was observed at 20ºC and it was also observed that the germination per cent decreased with decreasing relative humidity. Maximum germination per cent of 69.05% was observed at 100%.','-','Vinay Kumar Kardam, A.K. Gupta, Arti Shukla and S.K. Sharma (2022). Effect of Different Temperature and Relative Humidity Regimes on the Germination of Blastospores of Taphrina deformans (Berk.) Tul. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 14(2): 607-610.'),(4910,'125','Computation of Genetic Variability and Divergence Analysis in Advance Breeding Lines of Chickpea','Deepak Katkani, Anita Babbar, Shikha Upadhyay and Vinod Goyal','104 Computation of Genetic Variability and Divergence Analysis in Advance Breeding Lines of Chickpea Deepak Katkani.pdf','',1,'The information related to genetic variability and diversity is most important for breeding programme. Presence of genetic divergence amid the parents is an essential criteria to expand the probabilities of selecting better genotypes for several traits. If highly diverse parents are available, the chances of enhancing individual trait also increased. The existing research was envisioned to know the amount of genetic variability and diversity amongst genotypes of desi chickpea (Cicer arietinum L.) and to categorize highly divergent parents for various upcoming hybridization programmes. Genetic variability and diversity amongst the parentages is crucial to increase the chances of selection for superior segregates related to several yield attributing traits. The high value of GCV%, high heritability coupled with genetic advance as percentage of mean was recorded for 100 seed weight. Forty two desi chickpea lines were composed into 9 clusters based on divergence analysis. Cluster I was the biggest amongst all the clusters having 18 genotypes followed by cluster II contain 11 genotypes and cluster III had 7 genotypes. Cluster IV to Cluster IX, each with a single genotype. The maximum genotypes grouped into cluster I indicated unidirectional selection for individual character. On the basis of intra and inter cluster distance, the advance breeding lines namely, JG 74 × ICC 4958-2, JG 23 × ICC 251741, JG 74 × ICC 4958-1, JG 11 × JG 14, ICC 181109 and JG 24 were identified as promising lines and might be used as a parent in chickpea improvement programme.','Genetic diversity, variability, cluster, hybridization programme and divergence analysis.','The high value of GCV%, high heritability coupled with genetic advance as percentage of mean was recorded for 100 seed weight. These above revealed traits can be incorporated in selection criteria for concurrently improving the seed yield per plant in advance breeding lines of chickpea. The information related to genetic divergence of advance breeding lines is advantageous tool in management of several gene banks, germplasm tagging, elimination or/and documentation of adulteration in the genetic stock and establishing of core collections. Genetic diversity amongst the parentages is highly essential to increase the chances of selection for superior segregates related to several yield attributing traits. The current research work was conducted to estimate the availability of genetic diversity amongst advance breeding lines of chickpea and to categorize distinct divergent parents aimed at future crossing/hybridization programmes for seed yield enhancement. ','-','Deepak Katkani, Anita Babbar, Shikha Upadhyay and Vinod Goyal (2022). Computation of Genetic Variability and Divergence Analysis in Advance Breeding Lines of Chickpea. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 14(2): 611-617.'),(4911,'125','Screening of Pearl Millet Germplasms Against Drechslera Leaf Spot Disease under Artificial Inoculation Conditions in Arid Western Plains of Rajasthan','Vinay Kumar Kardam, A.K. Meena, S.L. Godara, D. Prasad and Nitika Kumari','105 Screening of Pearl Millet Germplasms Against Drechslera Leaf Spot Disease under Artificial Inoculation Conditions in Arid Western Plains of Rajasthan Vinay Kumar Kardam.pdf','',1,'Present investigation revealed that, forty germplasms were evaluated against D. setariae under artificial inoculation conditions during Kharif 2019 and kharif 2020. None of the germplasms were found immune (I), highly resistant (HR), resistant (R) and none germplasms were also reported as susceptible (S) and highly susceptible (HS) against D. setariae on pearl millet germplasms. Seven germplasms Local germplasm-1, Local germplasm-2, Local germplasm-4, Sardar Sahar-646, Sardar Sahar-656, Sardar Sahar-658 and Sardar Sahar-685 were observed as moderately resistant (MR). Six germplasms Local germplasm-3, Local germplasm-15, Sardar Sahar-651, Sardar Sahar-662, Sardar Sahar-664, Sardar Sahar-677 were assessed as low resistant (LR). Twelve germplasms Local germplasm-5, Local germplasm-7, Local germplasm-8, Local germplasm-16, Sardar Sahar-640, Sardar Sahar-645, Sardar Sahar-647, Sardar Sahar-654, Sardar Sahar-660, Sardar Sahar-674, Sardar Sahar-680, Sardar Sahar-714 were recorded as mesothetic (M). Six germplasms Local germplasms-6, Local germplasms-18, Sardar Sahar-636, Sardar Sahar-639, Sardar Sahar-649, Sardar Sahar-666 were observed as low susceptible (LS). Nine germplasms Local germplasms-9, Local germplasms-11, Local germplasms-19, Local germplasms-20, Sardar Sahar-642, Sardar Sahar-643, Sardar Sahar-648, Sardar Sahar-650, Sardar Sahar-713 were assessed as moderately susceptible (MS) disease reaction.','Disease reaction, evaluation, foliar disease, germplasm, millet.','Forty germplasms were evaluated against D. setariae under artificial inoculation conditions during Kharif 2019 and kharif 2020. None of the germplasms were found immune (I), highly resistant (HR), resistant (R) and none germplasms were also reported as susceptible (S) and highly susceptible (HS) against D. setariae on pearl millet germplasms. Seven germplasms Local germplasm-1, Local germplasm-2, Local germplasm-4, Sardar Sahar-646, Sardar Sahar-656, Sardar Sahar-658 and Sardar Sahar-685 were observed as moderately \r\nresistant (MR). Six germplasms Local germplasm-3, Local germplasm-15, Sardar Sahar-651, Sardar Sahar-662, Sardar Sahar-664, Sardar Sahar-677 were assessed as low resistant (LR). Twelve germplasms Local germplasm-5, Local germplasm-7, Local germplasm-8, Local germplasm-16, Sardar Sahar-640, Sardar Sahar-645, Sardar Sahar-647, Sardar Sahar-654, Sardar Sahar-660, Sardar Sahar-674, Sardar Sahar-680, Sardar Sahar-714 were recorded as mesothetic (M). Six germplasms Local germplasms-6, Local germplasms-18, Sardar Sahar-636, Sardar Sahar-639, Sardar Sahar-649, Sardar Sahar-666 were observed as low susceptible (LS). Nine germplasms Local germplasms-9, Local germplasms-11, Local germplasms-19, Local germplasms-20, Sardar Sahar-642, Sardar Sahar-643, Sardar Sahar-648, Sardar Sahar-650, Sardar Sahar-713 were assessed as moderately susceptible (MS) disease reaction\r\n','-','Vinay Kumar Kardam, A.K. Meena, S.L. Godara, D. Prasad, Nitika Kumari (2022). Screening of Pearl Millet Germplasms Against Drechslera Leaf Spot Disease under Artificial Inoculation Conditions in Arid Western Plains of Rajasthan. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 14(2): 618-623.'),(4912,'125','Growth Parameters of Capsicum (Capsicum annuum var. grossum L.) as Influenced by Different Nitrogen and Potassium Fertigation Levels under Poly House','B. Gouthami, M. Uma Devi M., K. Avil Kumar and V. Ramulu','106 Growth Parameters of Capsicum _Capsicum annuum var. grossum L._ as Influenced by Different Nitrogen and Potassium Fertigation Levels under Poly House B.pdf','',1,'A field investigation was conducted at Water Technology Centre, College of Agriculture, during 2018-19 rabi season, Rajendranagar, Hyderabad. The experiment consisted of three replications in a Factorial Randomized Block Design (FRBD) with two factors, namely N levels (4) and K levels (3), and twelve treatments, namely N fertigation levels of 0 percent, 120 percent (216 kg N ha-1), 150 percent (270 kg N ha-1), 180 percent (324 kg N ha-1), and K fertigation levels of 0 percent, 80 percent (96 kg K2O ha-1), and 100 percent (120 kg K2O ha-1), The RDF was 180, 90, and 120 kg N, P2O5, and K2O ha-1, respectively. The soil texture at the experimental location was sandy loam, with low available nitrogen (166.5 kg ha-1), medium available phosphorus (81.1 kg P2O5 ha-1), and low in available potassium (245.4 kg K2O ha-1) The crop received a total of 414.8 mm of water. Among varied doses of nitrogen, application of 180 % N (324 kg N ha-1) recorded relatively higher plant growth parameters like plant height (97.29 cm), number of branches plant-1 (5.76), number of leaves plant-1 (57.29), LAI (1.743), SPAD chlorophyll reading (63.42), total dry matter production (1970.22 kg ha-1) followed by 150 % N (270 kg N ha-1). With regard to potassium fertigation, 100% K2O (120 kg K2O ha-1) recorded relatively higher plant growth parameters like plant height (96.84 cm), number of branches plant-1 (5.67), number of leaves plant-1 (56.98), LAI (1.671), SPAD chlorophyll reading (62.79), total dry matter production (1983.83 kg ha-1) followed by 80 % K2O (96 kg K2O ha-1). Hence for capsicum crop grown in naturally ventilated poly house during rabi season, application of 324 kg N and 120 kg K2O ha-1 by fertigation is recommended.','Poly house- capsicum-N and K fertigation schedule - growth parameters.','Finally, it can be concluded that, among different nitrogen fertigation levels,180% RD of N (324 kg N ha-1) recorded the highest value in all crop growth parameters i.e plant height, no. of branches, no. of leaves, LAI, SPAD chlorophyll reading, total dry matter production followed by 150 % RD (270 kg N ha-1) of N. Among different potassium doses, 100 % RD (120 kg K2O ha-1) of K2O recorded significantly higher values.','-','Gouthami, M. Uma Devi M., K. Avil Kumar and V. Ramulu (2022). Growth Parameters of Capsicum (Capsicum annuum var. grossum L.) as Influenced by Different Nitrogen and Potassium Fertigation Levels under Poly House. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 14(2): 624-629.'),(4913,'125','Varietal Preference of Major Insect Pests of Sesame','Sanju Piploda, Akhter Hussain, K. Anvesh, Ajay Kumar Yadav, Priyanka and Sumitra Choudhary','107 Varietal Preference of Major Insect Pests of Sesame Sanju Piploda.pdf','',1,'The screening of ten varieties of sesame, Sesamum indicum L. viz., RT-376, RT-346, RT-127, Pragati, RT-458, GT-10, RMT-505, RMT-447, RT-46 and RT-103 were investigated against major insect pests viz., leaf roller and capsule borer, Antigastra catalaunalis (Dup.), leafhopper Orosius albicinctus Distant. and whitefly, Bemisia tabaci ( Genn.), during kharif, 2019. During the investigation none was found immune Variety RT-346 and RT-376 were categorized as least susceptible (harboured< 4.17 leaf roller and capsule borer/ five plants, < 4.10 leafhopper/three leaves and < 4.16 whitefly/ three leaves), whereas, varieties RMT-505, RT-458, RMT-447, RT-127 and GT-10 as moderately susceptible. The variety RT-46 and Pragati as highly susceptible against leaf roller and capsule borer, leafhopper and whitefly, however, variety RT-103 was found least susceptible against whitefly and moderately susceptible against incidence of leaf roller and capsule borer and leafhopper.','Sesame, varietal preference, leaf roller and capsule borer, leafhopper and whitefly.','Ten varieties of sesame were screened against leaf roller and capsule borer, leafhopper and whitefly for relative resistance showed that the varieties RT-346 and RT-376 were found to be least susceptible, while, the varieties RT-46 and Pragati were found to be highly susceptible and the moderately susceptible varieties were RT-103, RMT-505, RT-458, RMT-447 RT-127 and GT-10 against leaf roller and capsule borer, leafhopper and whitefly. However, the variety RT-103 was found least susceptible against whitefly infestation and the variety GT-10 were categories as highly susceptible ','-','Sanju Piploda, Akhter Hussain, K. Anvesh, Ajay Kumar Yadav, Priyanka and Sumitra Choudhary (2022). Varietal Preference of Major Insect Pests of Sesame. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 14(2): 630-633.'),(4914,'125','Study of Biological Damage in M1 Generation of Indian Mustard (Brassica juncea L. Czern and Coss)','T. Julia, E.V.D. Sastry, N. Brajendra Singh, Th. Renuka and N. Reetisana','108 Study of Biological Damage in M1 Generation of Indian Mustard _Brassica juncea L. Czern and Coss_ T.pdf','',1,'The experiment was carried out during rabi 2018-19 in the experimental field of College of Agriculture, Central Agricultural University, Imphal. Seeds of two Indian mustard genotypes CAULC- 2 and NRCHB-101 were exposed to three doses of gamma rays (1000, 1100 and 1200 Gy), three concentrations of ethyl methanesulphonate (0.3, 0.5 and 0.7%) and their combination (1000Gy+0.5%, 1100Gy+0.5% and 1200Gy+0.5%). The treated seeds along with the control were laid out in Randomised Block Design with three replications to raise M1 generation. To determine the biological damage in M1 generation, parameters like seed germination, seedling height, plant survival and pollen fertility were taken into account. Reduction in germination and survival percentage, seedling height and pollen fertility was observed in the mutagen treated population. The reduction was more pronounced in combined treatments. The reduction in these traits is caused due to cytological and physiological changes in the cell of the plants.','Biological damage, ethyl methanesulphonate, gamma ray, Indian mustard.','From the present investigation, it was concluded that biological damage increased with increasing dose or concentration of mutagens in M1 generation of Indian mustard. Seed germination, survival, pollen fertility and seedling height were higher at lower dose or concentration of the mutagens, which was due to the fact that biological damage (in terms of lethality, injury and sterility) increase with increasing dose or concentration of mutagens. Gamma rays and EMS, alone as well as in combination, are able to induce mutations in Indian mustard.','-','T. Julia, E.V.D. Sastry, N. Brajendra Singh, Th. Renuka and N. Reetisana (2022). Study of Biological Damage in M1 Generation of Indian Mustard (Brassica juncea L. Czern and Coss). Biological Forum – An International Journal, 14(2): 634-637.'),(4915,'125','Molecular Characterization of South Indian Insecticide Resistant H. armigera (Hubner)','Upendhar S., Vani Sree K. and Chinna Babu Naik V.','109 Molecular Characterization of South Indian Insecticide Resistant H. armigera _Hubner_ Upendhar.pdf','',1,'Molecular characterization of the insecticide resistant Helicoverpa armigera (Hubner) larvae was done by cytochrome oxidase I (CO-I) primer. Based on the multiple nucleotide sequence alignment of cytochrome oxidase I (CO-I) region, the larval samples were divided in to three haplotypes. Haplotype I: A1 Cyper selected –MBNR; A2 Metho selected-MBNR; A3 Spino selected- MBNR; A4 Indo selected – MBNR and B1 Cyper selected –Raichur. Haplotype II: C1 Cyper selected- Nagpur; C2 Metho selected-Nagpur; C3 Spino selected- Nagpur; C4 Indo selected- Nagpur. Haplotype III: B2 Metho selected-Raichur; B3 Spino selected-Raichur and B4 Indoselected-Raichur. Development of resistance by H. armigera to insecticides, the high cost of insect control, environmental concerns, legal restrictions on the use of chemicals and frequent outburst of Helicoverpa suggest that efforts are now needed to understand the molecular diversity leading to identification of virulent biotypes, understanding molecular basis of insecticide resistance and to formulate management strategies accordingly.','Helicoverpa armigera, Insecticide Resistance, Molecular characterization, CO-I, Haplotypes.','Molecular characterization by different molecular techniques allows us to study geographic structure, genetic similarities and population variations among different populations. Cytochrome oxidase I (CO-I) region of mt DNA is the most studied region of the insect mitochondrial genome. Sequencing of this CO-I region is used to study the intra specific, inter specific and any minute variations at genomic level in insects. In the present study three populations viz., Mahaboobnagar, Raichur, Nagpur populations of insecticide resistant H. armigera are characterized by using CO-I sequencing. ','-','Upendhar S., Vani Sree K. and Chinna Babu Naik V. (2022). Molecular Characterization of South Indian Insecticide Resistant H. armigera (Hubner). Biological Forum – An International Journal, 14(2): 638-644.'),(4916,'125','Mining the Biomolecules of Pseudomonas aeruginosa Reveals the Anti-oomycetes Nature Against Phytophthora infestans, the incitant of Late Blight of Potato','K. Mahendra, S. Nakkeeran, T. Raguchander, K. Angappan, U. Sivakumar and L. Arul','110 Mining the Biomolecules of Pseudomonas aeruginosa Reveals the Anti-oomycetes Nature Against Phytophthora infestans, the incitant of Late Blight of Potato K.pdf','',1,'Late blight of potato caused by the Phytophthora infestans; is well known across the world for its Irish famine in 1845. Whilst chemical pesticides are better in management of late blight, but they are also burden for environment and native microbes. However, unless pathogen co-evolution occurs, resistant varieties play little role in minimising damage caused by late blight. The present study aims at addressing these two issues by isolation of native endophytic bacteria that can provide a new strategy in management of late blight of potato.The dual culture assay revealed that endophytic P. aeruginosa NM314 had strong anti-oomycete activity against P. infestans. Phenazine-1-carboxylic acid was produced by P. aeruginosa NM314 in the zone of inhibition might have a key role in anti-oomycete action. Further, phylogenetic analysis revealed the evolutionary relationship of P. aeruginosa NM314 with 31 strains of P. aeruginosa. Based on these results, the indigenous potato endophyte P. aeruginosa NM314 can be explored an alternative for chemical pesticides to control the late blight of potato. ','Phytophthora infestans, Phenazine-1-carboxylic acid, biocontrol; Pseudomonas aeruginosa, NM314, endophyte','In dual culture assay, P. aeruginosa NM314 exhibited various biomolecules when cultured alone and in combination with P. infestans. During di-trophic interaction, it produced PCA, which is a very important antibiotic plays important role in anti-oomycete action. Additionally, the phylogenetic tree construction using neighbor-joining method revealed its close relationship with other P. aeruginosa strains like P. aeruginosa YB01 (China) and formed a separate cluster. At this stage, little is known about the complete mechanisms exhibited by P. aeruginosa NM314 against P. infestans. Evaluation of P. aeruginosa NM314 under field conditions is further required for its effective deployment as a potential biocontrol agent against P. infestans.','-','K. Mahendra, S. Nakkeeran, T. Raguchander, K. Angappan, U. Sivakumar and L. Arul (2022). Mining the Biomolecules of Pseudomonas aeruginosa Reveals the Anti-oomycetes Nature Against Phytophthora infestans, the incitant of Late Blight of Potato. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 14(2): 645-650.'),(4917,'125','Lactic Acid Production from Lignocellulosic Materials','Surbhi Tripathi, Daljeet Singh Dhanjal, Reena Singh and Chirag Chopra','111 Lactic Acid Production from Lignocellulosic Materials Chirag Chopra.pdf','',1,'Lactic is one of the rising products for industrial use, and it has many functions in different fields. For economical production by fermentation, it has many factors, one of the essential factors is cost-effective raw material. The feedstocks sugars like starch, sucrose, glucose used for lactic acid production are very expensive. Thus, in place of expensive sugar feedstock, lignocellulosic biomass is used for the manufacturing of lactic acid considering its low cost, sustainability, availability in contrast to processed sugars. In spite of these benefits, commercial utilization of lignocellulosic material for lactic acid production still imposes challenge. This review describes the conventional method and different processing stages involved during production of lactic acid. Additionally, the use of lignocellulosic raw material, different microbial strains, and fermentation methods for lactic acid production and highlighted the numerous key points have been pointed out, which could be targeted for advancing fermentation processes.','Lactic acid, Lignocellulosic raw material, Fermentation method.','In recent times, lactic acid use has increased due to its applications in different fields such as pharmaceutical, food, cosmetic, and chemical industries. For commercial purposes, batch and continuous fermentation methods are used to produce lactic acid. The continuous fermentation method gives more productivity, while the batch fermentation method gives high concentration. In batch fermentation, the bacterial genus Lactobacillus and fungal genus Rhizopus are used to produce lactic acid. Yeast species like Candida, Saccharomyces, and Pichia are established to produce a high yield of lactic acid, but their production cost is relatively high. Batch fermentation is classified into two Solid State Fermentation and Separate Hydrolysis and Fermentation. Solid-State Fermentation is more effective in comparison with Separate Hydrolysis and Fermentation. Raw material for lactic acid production, generally refined starch and cellulose materials, is used. However, the present trend of research is the production of lactic acid by using lignocellulosic materials such as agricultural waste like corn cob, sugarcane molasses, banana peduncle, beet molasses and many more. There is ample range for the production of lactic acid using lignocellulosic material as raw materials. Moreover, the progressive development in the field of molecular biology has open new opportunities to modify the genetic code of microbes for improving the production and activity of these enzymes synthesized by them.','-','Surbhi Tripathi, Daljeet Singh Dhanjal, Reena Singh and Chirag Chopra (2022). Lactic Acid Production from Lignocellulosic Materials. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 14(2): 651-661.'),(4918,'125','Genetic Variability Parameters and Inter-relationship Among Yield and its Attributes in Pearl Millet (Pennisetum glaucum) Hybrids','Mukesh Kumar Yadav, Sanjay Kumar Sanadya, Anil Kumar, Ravindra Kumar and P.C. Gupta','112 Genetic Variability Parameters and Inter-relationship Among Yield and its Attributes in Pearl Millet _Pennisetum glaucum_ Hybrids Mukesh Kumar Yadav.pdf','',4,'The pearl millet (Pennisetum glaucum (L.) R. Br.) is an important crop in Africa and India\'s semi-arid tropics. The purpose of this study was to assess the magnitude of variability in pearl millet genotypes and to comprehend the heritable component of variation in biometrical character. A field trial was conducted to determine genetic variability, correlation, and path analysis for ten characters in 45 pearl millet hybrids. The hybrids were tested in RBD at SKRAU\'s Experimental Farm in Bikaner during the kharif of 2018. The presence of significant variability for most of the characters was revealed by analysis of variance, which revealed a significant difference among all hybrids. High or moderate heritability coupled with high or moderate genetic advance as per cent of mean was reported in plant height among hybrids that can be utilized for direct selection and other traits were low heritable and low genetic advance could be improvised using recurrent selection. Direct selection for higher values of harvest index, plant height, biological yield per plant, and number of effective tillers per plant will improve seed yield per plant, according to correlation. At the genotypic level, harvest index, ear head diameter, plant height, days to 50% flowering, and biological yield per plant had the highest direct positive effect on seed yield per plant, while days to 50% maturity, ear head length, number of tillers per plant, and 1000 grain weight had the greatest direct negative effect. This implied that seed yield was primarily determined by attributing traits with direct and indirect effects.','Bajra, Breeding program, Hybrids, Selection, Variability.','The resource for seed yield and its components had significant genetic variation, indicating that seed yield may be improved. All of these hybrids could be used in a breeding programme because they performed well in the desired direction for component characters that are directly related to seed yield. When GCV, heritability estimates, and high genetic advancement were combined, it was clear that non-additive gene action and environmental factors were in responsible of the majority of the traits. As a result, in segregating generation, direct selection for these characters will be ineffective. Direct selection for higher values of harvest index, plant height, biological yield per plant, and number of effective tillers per plant will improve seed yield per plant, according to correlation. The strong direct influence of other traits on seed yield per plant was also owing to the high positive relationship of these characters with seed yield per plant. This suggested that seed yield was mostly a result of attributing traits with direct and indirect effects.','-','Mukesh Kumar Yadav, Sanjay Kumar Sanadya, Anil Kumar, Ravindra Kumar and P.C. Gupta (2022). Genetic Variability Parameters and Inter-relationship Among Yield and its Attributes in Pearl Millet (Pennisetum glaucum) Hybrids. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 14(2): 662-666.'),(4919,'125','Conventional Cancer Diagnostic Tools in the Modern Times: A Review','Girish Sawhney, Aditya Rattan Bhardwaj, Diotima Bhattacharya, Munendra Singh, Kumar Sanu, Reena Singh, Daljeet Singh Dhanjal and Chirag Chopra','113 Conventional Cancer Diagnostic Tools in the Modern Times A Review Chirag Chopra.pdf','',4,'Cancer is among the leading causes of mortality worldwide. Due to the high chances of late discovery, which occurs in later stages, is considered fatal. It is one of the most significant health threats of the twenty-first century since it has no boundaries and may harm any human organ in any location. Various factors leading to cancer are intake of alcohol, tobacco, overweight, less physical workout, etc. Since it is a highly fatal disease, the earlier it is detected, the more are the chances of survival of the patient. For the same, many conventional techniques exist to detect cancer at earlier stages. Some of these techniques are computed tomography (CT), molecular resonance imaging (MRI), X-ray techniques, positron emission tomography (PET), ultrasonography, etc. These conventional techniques are cost-effective, time-efficient, and yield good results, though they have some fundamental limitations associated with dynamics of tumor growth and metastasis timing which impose as challenge for earlier detection. This review aims to provide the insight about different conventional approaches for prognosis of cancer in detail with their pros and cons.','Cancer, Computed tomography (CT), MRI, PET.','This study summarizes current advances in using conventional diagnostic tools for cancer diagnosis. This may be performed by employing a variety of imaging techniques based on various concepts, ranging from anatomical to functional, each with its own set of flaws and strengths. It will be easier to deal with cancer if it is detected early on. As a result, oncology imaging is an integral part of cancer treatment. Several studies have \r\nbeen conducted in the last few years to create diagnostic tools for the detection of cancer, like magnetic resonance imaging which uses nuclear magnetic resonance (NMR) to visualize cancer cells; computed tomography uses x-rays that allow for three-dimensional imaging with excellent resolution., positron emission tomography which is a type of nuclear oncology screening that contains the marker F-18 fluoro 2 deoxyglucose (FDG) and is useful for disease staging, ultrasound imaging that employs high-frequency sound waves to identify pictures that can\'t be seen with X-rays while posing no risk of radiation exposure, fluorescence imaging, a non-invasive imaging technique for observing biological processes in living organisms. This article briefly provides a quick overview of the most common imaging methods currently in use, their advantages and their limitations. With the advancement of technology, many new and better imaging techniques are expected to be discovered. Furthermore, progressive development in the field ofnanotechnology is showing broad range of application and can also be utilized in the detection approaches to overcome the limitation of conventional detection techniques. ','-','Girish Sawhney, Aditya Rattan Bhardwaj, Diotima Bhattacharya, Munendra Singh, Kumar Sanu, Reena Singh, Daljeet Singh Dhanjal and Chirag Chopra (2022). Conventional Cancer Diagnostic Tools in the Modern Times: A Review. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 14(2): 667-674.'),(4920,'125','Study on Open Pollination in Tuberose (Agave amica Medik.)','Bhuvana M., P. Aruna, R. Ravikesavan, M. Ganga and N. Manikanda Boopathi','114 Study on Open Pollination in Tuberose _Agave amica Medik.pdf','',4,'Tuberose is one of the commercial important loose as well as cut flower. There is limited diversity in tuberose hence development of new variety with improved growth and yield is required. As the tuberose is self incompatible and dichogamy in nature open pollination was carried out. Seven single type tuberose genotypes were allowed for open pollination. The fruit set was observed in Arka Nirantara, Variegated Single, Bidhan Rajani-2, GK-T-C-4, Bidhan Rajani-3 and there was no fruit set in Arka Prajwal and Bidhan Rajani-1. Maximum fruit set percentage (24.39%), minimum days for fruit maturity (58.66 days) and more number of seeds per capsule (26.77) were recorded in Bidhan Rajani-2 followed by Arka Nirantara. Poor fruit set was observed in Bidhan Rajani-3. Germination and seedling growth of open pollinated seeds were studied. Higher germination percentage was recorded in Bidhan Rajani-2 (76.89%) followed by Arka Nirantara (75.45%) and Bidhan Rajani-3 with lower germination percentage of 20.11%. Growth parameters like number of roots, number of leaves, root length and shoot length were also measured where number of root and shoot were in the range of 1.07-2.03 and 2.02-2.22 in all genotypes respectively. Longest root length was recorded in Arka Nirantara (11.56 cm) and shoot length in Variegated Single (15.34 cm). Vigour index was higher in Arka Nirantara (1994.14) and lower in Bidhan Rajani-3 (458.11).','Tuberose, Open pollination, Germination, Diversity, Vigour index. ','Open pollination study in tuberose genotypes was conducted to develop a new variety with improved qualitative and quantitative characters. Arka Nirantara and Bidhan Rajani-2 recorded higher fruit set compared to the other genotypes and no fruit was recorded in Arka Prajwal and Bidhan Rajani-1. Fruit set in tuberose was mainly influenced by the genetic and pollen- pistil interaction of the genotypes. Generally, germination of tuberose seeds is very poor where in this study Arka Nirantara and Bidhan Rajani- 2 observed higher germination percentage. Growth parameters of the open pollinated seeds did not exhibit much variation. The growth parameters were influenced by both genetic and environmental conditions. From this, it was concluded that Arka Nirantara and Bidhan Rajani- 2 can be used as a parent for hybrid development. Further evaluation of the open pollinated seedlings was needed for the development of a variety in tuberose.','-','Bhuvana M., P. Aruna, R. Ravikesavan, M. Ganga and N. Manikanda Boopathi (2022). Study on Open Pollination in Tuberose (Agave amica Medik.). Biological Forum – An International Journal, 14(2): 675-678.'),(4921,'125','Awareness Regarding Hygiene Management Practices Followed by Dairy Farmers in Sultanpur District of Uttar Pradesh','Ajay Kumar, H.C. Verma, R.K. Singh, R.P. Diwakar, Rajesh Kumar, V.K. Pal and Mustak Ahmad','115 Awareness Regarding Hygiene Management Practices Followed by Dairy Farmers in Sultanpur District of Uttar Pradesh H.C.pdf','',4,'The present study was carried by M.VSc student of Department of Veterinary & A.H. Extension Education, ANDUAT, Kumarganj, and Ayodhya out in Sultanpur district of Uttar Pradesh is an attempt to analyze the relationship of status of dairy farmers with their awareness regarding hygiene management practices. The information were composed with the help of pre design question schedule by contacting the sample dairy farmers personally the help of local leader in the research areaby random sampling method, for selection of district and block purposively due to the researcher is well equated about the work the socio-cultural status of the district which help in quick rapport building that is essential for authentic data collection .The information were generated from 120 dairy farmers from four blocks i.e. Kurebhar, Kurwar, Dhanpatganj, Baldirai selected for data collection, three villages from each randomly selected block were randomly selected with lottery method by preparing the list of the village where sufficient number of dairy farmers was available. Overall finding reported that the majority 35.83 percent of the dairy farmers were having medium, 32.50 Low and 31.67 high hygiene management practices like cleaning of housing & cleaning of floor, washing of animals, use of disinfection in animal shed, washing of animal udder at the time of milking, washing of hand at the time of milking, Clean milk production followed by dairy farmers in the study area.','Awareness, Hygiene Management, Dairy farmer. ','Majority 35.83 per cent of dairy farmer’s follow the medium and 32.50 per cent have low hygiene management practices like cleaning of housing & cleaning of floor, washing of animals, use of disinfection in animal shed, washing of animal udder at the time of milking, washing of hand at the time of milking, Clean milk production practices by dairy farmers of dairy animals in the study area. So aware the dairy farmer for enhancement the percentage of hygiene in animal husbandry practices by awareness programme like animal health camps, animal fairs and other veterinary awareness programme in the study. ','-','Ajay Kumar, H.C. Verma, R.K. Singh, R.P. Diwakar, Rajesh Kumar, V.K. Pal and Mustak Ahmad (2022). Awareness Regarding Hygiene Management Practices Followed by Dairy Farmers in Sultanpur District of Uttar Pradesh. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 14(2): 679-682.'),(4922,'125','Evaluation of Moisture Stress Indices and Biplot Analysis in Coriander under Normal and Staggered Moisture Regimes','Ravi Kumawat, Dhirendra Singh, Kana Ram Kumawat, Sarla Kumawat and Madhu Choudhary','116 Evaluation of Moisture Stress Indices and Biplot Analysis in Coriander under Normal and Staggered Moisture Regimes Ravi Kumawat.pdf','',4,'Drought is one of the major abiotic stresses influencing performance of crop plants. Therefore, identification or development of tolerant genotypes is of high importance in crops. that limit the crop production worldwide. The thirty genotypes of coriander was evaluated at two environments viz., normal condition (E1) and limited moisture condition (E2) in RBD with three replications during rabi 2016-2017. Eight moisture stress indices as TOL, SSI, STI, MP, GMP, YI, SSPI, Ys, Yp and MSTI were calculated from seed yield per plant under both the conditions for each of the genotype. The MSS due to all the three sources as environments, genotypes and G x E interactions were found highly significant for seed yield on pooled basis indicating interaction among the genotypes and prevailing environmental conditions. The six indices viz., STI, MP, GMP, YI, K1STI and K2STI had showed high positive and significant association with seed yield under both the conditions as stress (Ys) and non-stress (Yp) suggesting they would be more effective in screening of stress tolerant genotypes in both the conditions. The combined analysis of variance (AMMI) revealed that majority of the total variation was accounted for by the environments (73.55 %) followed by genotypes (23.84 %) and G × E interaction (2.60 %). Among the thirty genotypes, UD-705, UD-769 and UD-529 recorded best average seed yield along with relatively low scores of PCA-1 indicating small interaction with environment and yield stability over environments. According to overall rank sum method of all indices, genotypes UD-705, UD-529, UD-769, RCr-20 and RCr-475 were found most tolerant. Hence, these genotypes may be used in breeding programmes, especially for development of stress tolerant varieties for drought in coriander.','Stress indices, AMMI and biplot, coriander, stress and non stress condition.','The genotypes UD-705, UD-529, UD-769, RCr-20 and RCr-475 were found most tolerant genotypes i.e. for moisture stress based on overall rank sum method. The correlation analysis among the indices revealed that the indices STI, MP, GMP, YI, K1STI and K2STI were \r\nstrongly correlated with seed yield under both the environmental condition as non-stress (E1) and stress condition (E2) and can be used as selection criteria to screen stress tolerant genotypes. The indices TOL, SSI, YI and SSPI could be used as selection criteria for screening of stress tolerant genotypes in stress environment as they exhibited good correlation with seed yield under E2 environment. The tolerant genotypes found under the study may be used in coriander breeding programmes especially for drought stress after further their multi location trials. ','-','Ravi Kumawat, Dhirendra Singh, Kana Ram Kumawat, Sarla Kumawat and Madhu Choudhary (2022). Evaluation of Moisture Stress Indices and Biplot Analysis in Coriander under Normal and Staggered Moisture Regimes. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 14(2): 683-689.'),(4923,'125','Genetic Variability Parameters and Inter-relationship among Yield and its Attributes in Pearl Millet (Pennisetum glaucum) Hybrids','Mukesh Kumar Yadav*, Sanjay Kumar Sanadya, Anil Kumar, Amit Kumar, Ravindra Kumar and P.C. Gupta','112 Genetic Variability Parameters and Inter-relationship Among Yield and its Attributes in Pearl Millet _Pennisetum glaucum_ Hybrids Mukesh Kumar Yadav.pdf','',1,'The pearl millet (Pennisetum glaucum (L.) R. Br.) is an important crop in Africa and India\'s semi-arid tropics. The purpose of this study was to assess the magnitude of variability in pearl millet genotypes and to comprehend the heritable component of variation in biometrical character. A field trial was conducted to determine genetic variability, correlation, and path analysis for ten characters in 45 pearl millet hybrids. The hybrids were tested in RBD at SKRAU\'s Experimental Farm in Bikaner during the kharif of 2018. The presence of significant variability for most of the characters was revealed by analysis of variance, which revealed a significant difference among all hybrids. High or moderate heritability coupled with high or moderate genetic advance as per cent of mean was reported in plant height among hybrids that can be utilized for direct selection and other traits were low heritable and low genetic advance could be improvised using recurrent selection. Direct selection for higher values of harvest index, plant height, biological yield per plant, and number of effective tillers per plant will improve seed yield per plant, according to correlation. At the genotypic level, harvest index, ear head diameter, plant height, days to 50% flowering, and biological yield per plant had the highest direct positive effect on seed yield per plant, while days to 50% maturity, ear head length, number of tillers per plant, and 1000 grain weight had the greatest direct negative effect. This implied that seed yield was primarily determined by attributing traits with direct and indirect effects.','Bajra, Breeding program, Hybrids, Selection, Variability','The resource for seed yield and its components had significant genetic variation, indicating that seed yield may be improved. All of these hybrids could be used in a breeding programme because they performed well in the desired direction for component characters that are directly related to seed yield. When GCV, heritability estimates, and high genetic advancement were combined, it was clear that non-additive gene action and environmental factors were in responsible of the majority of the traits. As a result, in segregating generation, direct selection for these characters will be ineffective. Direct selection for higher values of harvest index, plant height, biological yield per plant, and number of effective tillers per plant will improve seed yield per plant, according to correlation. The strong direct influence of other traits on seed yield per plant was also owing to the high positive relationship of these characters with seed yield per plant. This suggested that seed yield was mostly a result of attributing traits with direct and indirect effects.','INTRODUCTION\r\nPearl millet (Pennisetum glaucum) is a diploid (2n=2x=14) cereal widely known as \"Bajra\" in the Poaceae family. It was first found in West Africa and then spread to India. Pearl millet is a common coarse grain cereal crop grown in dry and semi-arid climates. It may be cultivated in light textured soil with little rainfall. Among the millets, it is the most significant and perhaps most promising crop. It is widely farmed as a dual-purpose crop in Africa, Asia, and Australia, but it is exclusively planted as a feed crop in the subtropics of the United States. Pearl millet grains are high in nutrients and are consumed by around 10% of India\'s population as a staple food. In Zone 1C (Hyper Arid Partially Irrigated Western Plains), which includes Bikaner, Jaisalmer, and three tehsils in Churu district, pearl millet production is exceptionally low (325 kg/ha). Because arable land is a valuable and limited resource, increasing cropping intensity and maximizing the use of current resources appears to be a more valid option than expanding the area under cultivation. As a result, there is an urgent need to increase grain yield per unit area. Its inflorescence is a panicle, which is a complex terminal spike. Because of its protogynous nature, pearl millet is a highly cross-pollinated species. A caryopsis is a type of millet seed. Its root system is typical of monocotyledonous plants, with seminal or main roots, adventitious roots, and crown or collar roots.\r\nThe correlation coefficient into the direct and indirect effects of various traits on a dependent trait (El-Din et al., 2012). Direct effects are where a trait directly affects another without being influenced by other traits whereas indirect effects occur when the relationship between two traits is mediated by one or more traits (Tyagi and Lal 2007). Knowledge of the associations between yield and its component traits and among the component traits themselves would allow for more effective selection for yield. In finger millet, grain yield has been reported to be highly directly associated with: panicle mass and straw yield per plant (Sonnad et al., 2008); productive tillers and 1000 grain mass (Bezaweletaw et al. 2006); biomass yield, finger length and number of fingers per panicle (Ganapathy et al. 2011; Wolie and Dessalegn 2011); and basal tillers, flag leaf blade length, and panicle length and width (Bharathi 2011). Studies which have generated such information on finger millet in east Africa are limited.\r\nMATERIALS AND METHODS\r\nThe study was conducted at Agricultural Research Station, SKRAU, Bikaner, during Kharif season which is falls under Agro-Climate Zone IC of Rajasthan where average rainfall is about 260 mm, mostly received during July-September. The experimental material for the studies consisting 45 hybrids developed by three male sterile lines (A line) and the fifteen restorers lines (R line) through Line × Tester approach. The experimental material was laid out in a Randomized Block Design with three replications during Kharif-2018 with 60 cm × 15 cm plant geometry. Normal and uniform cultural operations were followed during the crop season to raise a good crop. \r\nIndividual plant observations were made on ten randomly selected plants from each replication for ten traits: plant height, number of effective tillers per plant, ear head diameter, ear head length, 1000 grain weight, biological yield per plant, harvest index, and seed yield per plant, while whole plot observations were made on two characters: days to 50% flowering and days to 50% maturity. Panse and Sukhtame performed analysis of variance on all treatments (1961). Burton\'s suggested genetic variability parameters were calculated (1958). According to Searle, the phenotypic and genotypic correlation coefficients were calculated from the phenotypic and genotypic variance and covariance (1961). Path coefficient analysis was used to estimate the direct and indirect effects, as suggested by Wright (1921) and elaborated by Dewey and Lu (1959).\r\nRESULTS AND DISCUSSION\r\nThe experimental material, which consisted of 45 pearl millet hybrids, was laid out in a three-replication randomized block design. For the purpose of experimental design, the values of all characters were subjected to analysis of variance. Table 1 shows the mean square values for the characters analyzed. The analysis of variance found substantial variations between the hybrids for all traits except the number of effective tillers per plant, showing that pearl millet hybrids have a lot of variability. A wide range of variability for various traits has been observed earlier by Kumari et al. (2018a); Kumari et al. (2018b); Kumar et al. (2020a); Kumar et al. (2020b). \r\nTable 2 shows the mean, range, coefficients of variation, heritability, and genetic advance (as a percentage of the mean). The estimates of genotypic coefficient of variation (GCV) for biological yield per plant were high (>20%), while harvest index and number of effective tillers per plant were moderate (10-20%). For days to 50% flowering, days to 50% maturity, plant height, ear head length, 1000 grain weight, and ear head diameter, it was low (less than 10%). For number of effective tillers per plant, ear head length, biological yield per plant, and seed yield per plant, the phenotypic coefficient of variation (PCV) was high (>20%), but moderate (10-20%) for plant height, 1000 grain weight, and harvest index. For days to 50% \r\nflowering, days to 50% maturity, and ear head diameter, it was low (less than 10%). For plant height, heritability estimates were moderate (50-70 percent). Days to 50% flowering, days to 50% maturity, number of effective tillers per plant, plant height, ear head length, 1000 grain weight, ear head diameter, biological yield per plant, and seed yield per plant were all low (below 50%). For the characters of biological yield per plant and seed yield per plant, genetic advance (as a percentage of mean) was high (>20 percent), whereas for plant height, 1000 grain weight, and harvest index, it was moderate (10-20 percent). Days to 50% flowering, low genetic advance (as a percentage of the mean) (less than 10%) was observed. \r\nAt both the genotypic and phenotypic levels, character association was calculated for various pairs of agronomic attributes, including grain yield per plant (Table 3). For all of the characters, the genotypic correlation estimates were lower than the phenotypic condition coefficient. Days to maturity were positively and significantly correlated with days to 50% flowering (0.999**), plant height (0.198**), and 1000 grain weight (0.346**), while harvest index (-0.405**), seed yield per plant (-0.484**), and biological yield per plant (-0.314**) were significant and negative phenotypic correlations. The number of effective tillers per plant (0.622**), plant height (0.330**), harvest index (0.382**), and biological yield per plant at the phenotypic level (0.869**) all had positive and significant correlations with seed yield per plant. At the phenotypic level, this character was negatively and significantly correlated with days to 50% flowering (-0.484**) and days to 50% maturity (-0.483**). Grain \r\nyield per plant was positively and significantly correlated with characters such as number of effective tillers per plant (0.945**), biological yield per plant (0.851**), plant height (0.374*), and ear head length (0.767**) at the genotypic level, but was negatively and significantly correlated with days to 50% flowering (-0.393**) and days to 50% maturity (-0.402**) at the genotypic level. These characters need due consideration during any selection programmes. Similar findings of positive and significant correlation had been reported by number of workers for grain yield per plant with biological yield per plant, number of effective tillers per plant by Izge et al. (2006); Bikash et al. (2013); Kumar et al. (2020b). Negative and significantly correlation of grain yield per plant with days to 50 per cent flowering and days to 50 per cent maturity reported by Nehra et al. (2017); Kumar et al. (2020a). \r\nAt the genotypic level, harvest index (0.838) had the greatest direct positive effect on seed yield per plant, followed by ear head diameter (0.622), plant height (1.528), days to 50% flowering (24.202), and biological yield per plant (0.949), while days to 50% maturity (-25.062), ear head length (-0.800), number of tillers per plant (-0.508), and 1000 grain weight had the greatest \r\ndirect negative effect (-0.023). The study\'s low residual effect at the genotypic (0.018) level indicated that all of the characters contributed significantly to seed yield per plant. This research backs up the findings of and Bikash et al. (2013); Kumari et al. (2018a); Kumari et al. (2018b); Kumar et al. (2020a).\r\n','Mukesh Kumar Yadav, Sanjay Kumar Sanadya, Anil Kumar, Amit Kumar, Ravindra Kumar and P.C. Gupta (2022). Genetic Variability Parameters and Inter-relationship among Yield and its Attributes in Pearl Millet (Pennisetum glaucum) Hybrids. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 14(2): 662-666.'),(4924,'125','Conventional Cancer Diagnostic Tools in the Modern Times: A Review','Girish Sawhney, Aditya Rattan Bhardwaj, Diotima Bhattacharya, Munendra Singh, Kumar Sanu, Reena Singh, Daljeet Singh Dhanjal and Chirag Chopra*','113 Conventional Cancer Diagnostic Tools in the Modern Times A Review Chirag Chopra.pdf','',1,'Cancer is among the leading causes of mortality worldwide. Due to the high chances of late discovery, which occurs in later stages, is considered fatal. It is one of the most significant health threats of the twenty-first century since it has no boundaries and may harm any human organ in any location. Various factors leading to cancer are intake of alcohol, tobacco, overweight, less physical workout, etc. Since it is a highly fatal disease, the earlier it is detected, the more are the chances of survival of the patient. For the same, many conventional techniques exist to detect cancer at earlier stages. Some of these techniques are computed tomography (CT), molecular resonance imaging (MRI), X-ray techniques, positron emission tomography (PET), ultrasonography, etc. These conventional techniques are cost-effective, time-efficient, and yield good results, though they have some fundamental limitations associated with dynamics of tumor growth and metastasis timing which impose as challenge for earlier detection. This review aims to provide the insight about different conventional approaches for prognosis of cancer in detail with their pros and cons.','Cancer, Computed tomography (CT), MRI, PET','This study summarizes current advances in using conventional diagnostic tools for cancer diagnosis. This may be performed by employing a variety of imaging techniques based on various concepts, ranging from anatomical to functional, each with its own set of flaws and strengths. It will be easier to deal with cancer if it is detected early on. As a result, oncology imaging is an integral part of cancer treatment. Several studies have \r\nbeen conducted in the last few years to create diagnostic tools for the detection of cancer, like magnetic resonance imaging which uses nuclear magnetic resonance (NMR) to visualize cancer cells; computed tomography uses x-rays that allow for three-dimensional imaging with excellent resolution., positron emission tomography which is a type of nuclear oncology screening that contains the marker F-18 fluoro 2 deoxyglucose (FDG) and is useful for disease staging, ultrasound imaging that employs high-frequency sound waves to identify pictures that can\'t be seen with X-rays while posing no risk of radiation exposure, fluorescence imaging, a non-invasive imaging technique for observing biological processes in living organisms. This article briefly provides a quick overview of the most common imaging methods currently in use, their advantages and their limitations. With the advancement of technology, many new and better imaging techniques are expected to be discovered. Furthermore, progressive development in the field of nanotechnology is showing broad range of application and can also be utilized in the detection approaches to overcome the limitation of conventional detection techniques. \r\n','INTRODUCTION\r\nCancer is one of the leading causes of mortality worldwide, and it is considered very lethal. The term “Cancer” was first introduced in 370 BC by Hippocrates, who proclaimed them to abnormal growing cells because of the genetic alteration (Lukong, 2017). Due to the high prevalence of late detection, generally in advanced stages (Sharma et al., 2019; Dhanjal et al., 2021). This is why patients with cancer are left devoid of curative therapy (Sutradhar & Amin 2014). According to WHO, approximately 10 million fatalities were expected in 2020 due to cancer, accounting for roughly one in every six deaths (Geeitha and Thangamani 2020). Breast, lung, colon, rectum, and prostate cancers are the most frequent malignancies. Obesity, tobacco and alcohol use, fewer vegetables and fruits in diet, and a sedentary lifestyle constitute almost 33 percent of cancer causes and fatalities (Key et al., 2004; Daphal et al., 2012; Somani et al., 2021). Decades of biomedical research in affluent countries have yielded a slew of excellent cancer prevention and treatment options. Hepatitis B vaccination for liver cancer, cervical cancer screening methods, mammography for breast cancer, surgical prophylaxis, and a fecal occult blood test for colorectal cancer patients at high risk of colorectal cancer are just a few examples (Danaei et al., 2005). Cancer is one of the most severe health challenges of the twenty-first century, as it has no bounds and may damage any organ of humans in any location (Bharali & Mousa 2010; Satija et al., 2021a; 2021b). Although cancer can be challenging to diagnose, in some cases, the sooner it is identified, the higher the odds of successfully treating it (Sutradhar & Amin 2014). For this purpose, primarily, many conventional techniques come into play to detect cancer malignancies at early stages (Chopra et al., 2021; Singh et al., 2021). The most common term for such methods is \"oncology screening, \" further categorized under two different approaches, namely, anatomical-based and functional-based (Rembielak et al., 2008; Sharma et al., 2012). The former includes ultrasound, molecular resonance imaging (MRI), X-ray-based techniques, and computed tomography (CT) (Karpuz et al., 2018). The latter or the functional-based imaging techniques, on the other, include sentinel node mapping, positron emission tomography (PET), radionuclide imaging, single-photon emission tomography (SPECT), functional molecular resonance imaging, molecular resonance spectroscopy, and hybrid imaging, such as PET-CT, SPECT-CT, etc. (Rembielak et al., 2008, 2011, 2016; Sharma et al., 2012). Among these, MRI is considered one of the best imaging techniques. The images of hydrogen atoms are captured in this method, which reflects the response of hydrogen nuclei to radiofrequency radiation and results in high-resolution 3D images (Antoch & Bockisch 2009; Bu et al., 2012; Chen et al., 2015; Jakhmola et al., 2012; Ratzinger et al., 2010). In ultrasonography, high-frequency sounds are used to look at the tissues and organs inside the body and require no radiation exposure (Haber, 2000; Puylaert et al., 2010; Sharma et al., 2012). A PET scanner\'s fundamental mechanism is to detect photons released by a positron destructing a neighbouring electron (Luna et al., 2014; Malla et al., 2020). It is quite easy to obtain high resolution virtual 3D images with X-ray computed tomography. It\'s a hybrid of multi-plane X-ray pictures with high-resolution image reconstruction methods (Histed et al., 2012; Luna et al., 2014).Although these traditional approaches are cost-effective and yield good results, they have several inherent flaws such as limited tissue penetration depth, low specificity, low spatial resolution, and low sensitivity that may even result in false negatives (Lopci & Fanti, 2013; Rembielak et al., 2008, 2016; Sciallero et al., 2016). The primary aim of the early detection is to detect the smallest possible tumour cells number, preferably prior to initiation of angiogenic switch (Barba et al., 2021). This review intends to summarize various conventional diagnostic techniques for the early detection of cancers. The study also highlights the multiple advantages of one method over the other and their limitations. A short glimpse of the upcoming field of nanotechnology has also been mentioned, which has the potential to overcome the limitations of these conventional methods.\r\nMagnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI): MRI is a non-invasive imaging technique. It is the anatomical imaging approach. It is one of the most powerful diagnostic imaging technologies available, and it has also been widely employed in preclinical research investigations (Haris et al., 2015; Thompson et al., 2013). It works because atomic nuclei absorb radiofrequency energy in a strong magnetic field. It then sends them out as radio waves, which can be picked up and rebuilt into 3-D pictures (Rifki, 1990; Thompson et al., 2013). MRI primarily provides morphological information about the tumour and probable metastases. When screening lymph nodes for metastatic dissemination, their use is usually limited by a lack of helpful information (Haberkorn & Schoenberg, 2001). MRI uses the proton relaxation processes of water in biological systems to deliver pathological and physiological details about living tissue. Because most forms of tissue in the human body are plentiful in hydrogen protons, they will align themselves along the magnetic field lines in a strong magnetic field (Sciallero et al., 2016; Sharma et al., 2012). A supplemental magnetic field is then used to align the protons\' axes. After shutting down the pulse, the protons relax and revert to their natural state. A little radiofrequency signal is released as a result of this, and they resonate (Sharma et al., 2012). The images are so exact and multiplanar that they frequently reveal enough detail to see the tissues firsthand. As a result, the use of MRI may limit the number of diagnostic procedures required of a patient (Sharma et al., 2012). Scans are perfect for displaying soft tissue structures like ligaments, cartilage, and organs like the heart, brain, and eyes. MRI does not utilize ionizing radiation, and the magnetic fields it employs are not known to be dangerous. Hence it does not give exposure to harmful radiation to patients (Pang & Membrey 2017). The capacity of MRI to identify the higher grade and volume tumours selectively is essential because it might prevent over-detection of inconsequential cancer if used to guide biopsy or select men for biopsy, as well as be utilized in active surveillance for selection as well as monitoring (Thompson et al., 2013). In the case of brain tumours, MRI provides higher soft-tissue contrast than conventional cross-sectional imaging modalities, allowing for more accurate detection of mildly infiltrated or damaged parenchymal architecture (Antoch & Bockisch 2009; Smirniotopoulos et al., 2007). MRI is the preferred examination method over CT for lung tumour diagnosis. Furthermore, MRI is an excellent tool for determining the extent of Pancoast (superior sulcus) tumours (Radiologists., 2014). Because it can show muscle wall invasion or penetration, MRI is better than CT scanning for staging bladder cancer. Its multiplanar imaging capability further detects tumour involvement in nearby organs. It is the preferred imaging technique for patients who are candidates for harsh treatment (i.e., cystectomy or radical radiation). On the other hand, CT of the abdomen and pelvis is appropriate for staging in patients who are not candidates for drastic therapy or who have a clinical suspicion of locally advanced or metastatic illness. Because MRI scanners are relatively costly, the number of scanners available is restricted. There can be a setback in an MRI scan for non-urgent diseases. As coughing or swallowing might make the resultant pictures less clear, MRI scanners are inappropriate for studying conditions such as mouth tumours (Pang & Membrey, 2017). Geometric distortions in MRI images can occur due to differences in magnetic field strength (Evans, 2008). MRI is distinguished by much lengthier examination periods. The imaging methodology heavily influences the examination time (number and type of sequences). A whole-body MR-scan evaluation typically takes between 20 and 60 minutes. Sensitivity to pulmonary lesions is reduced. However, new MR scanning settings are being implemented to address the issue. It is now feasible to detect pulmonary abnormalities as small as 3 mm (Antoch & Bockisch 2009).\r\nComputed Tomography (CT): Computed Tomography scanning (CT-scan) has been utilized as an essential diagnostic tool for imaging, with billions of examinations done every day all around the globe (Fleischmann & Boas, 2011). It comes under anatomical-based methods and is of substantial value in detecting the amount and volume of tumours that can otherwise be difficult to visualize through other techniques available (Elkon et al., 1981; Rembielak et al., 2011). CT-scanning has also been observed as a morphological alternative for hybrid imaging systems. It mainly provides information regarding the morphology of the tumour and the possible metastatic behaviour (Antoch & Bockisch 2009). It has helped in the imaging and has also contributed to therapy after diagnosis as a follow-up to the tumours (Elkon et al., 1981). Nowadays, CT-scan and X-rays have come into great use following advancements in cancer diagnosis methods. The affordable nature, high resolution, and fast acquirement of computed tomography images have added to its applications with X-rays leading to three-dimensional imaging with high resolution (Barkan et al., 2018; Histed et al., 2012). Image-guided radiation treatment is a CT-based radiotherapy technique that allows the target to be precisely positioned without causing injury to the neighbouring tissues (Sharma et al., 2012). CT is a significant step in identifying liver cancer and scanning the entire liver to detect the presence of any lesion with the use of X-ray contrast agents, which can be administered intravenously and orally (Cao et al., 2015; Moghadam, 2017). Although CT is effective for capturing crude anatomical details, its poor contrast and usage of ionizing radiation can misidentify benign and malignant tumours and provide no information on lesions\' metabolic activities. Furthermore, it has been noted that it is not always successful in finding metastatic lymph nodes (Histed et al., 2012; Luna et al., 2014). Many new hybrid methodologies have been developed to overcome the shortcomings of the CTscan, including the involvement of contrast agents and nanoparticles (Barkan et al., 2018). To detect lung cancer, increasing radiation exposure leads to better imaging quality and puts the human body at risk due to the high X-ray amount. Hence, the amount is reduced, affecting lung imaging quality (Mahersia et al., 2015). CT has been integrated with PET (Positron Emission Tomography) in recent times due to their compatible nature and high resolution with proper localization of tumours. It involves the characteristics of both PET and CT, taking the benefit of spatial resolution from CT and metabolic sensitivity from PET (Barkan et al., 2018; Griffeth, 2005).\r\nPositron Emission Tomography (PET). As a clinical modality, Positron emission tomography (PET) has emerged as a viable option for distant assessment and reassessment of a wide range of malignancies. Systemic administration of tracer amounts of radiolabeled therapeutics that are selective and specific for the target of interest is required (Goel et al., 2017). Positron emission tomography (PET) has emerged as a valuable technique in gynecologic oncology. A PET-based metabolic biopsy may aid in assessing when pathology is unavailable or the lesion cannot be established by pathology. Compared to CT or MRI, PET in ovarian cancer has been seen as a viable method in diagnosing recurrent ovarian cancer (Chou et al., 2017). A PET scan for diagnosis implies the staging and therapeutic strategic approach. It enables even more reliable confined for adenocarcinomas imaging, attributed to its improved capacity to determine, based on inter nodular cancer for the administration of chemotherapy management and identification of disseminated tumours not detected by traditional imaging (Vokes et al., 2018). As a result, PET might be applied to make prognostic predictions for non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC) patients (Pu et al., 2021). Early identification and precise tumour staging with the use of FDG in positron emission tomography might help detect precursor (pancreatic intraepithelial neoplasms) lesions of pancreatic cancer (PC) and increase survival rates (Sánchez-Bueno et al., 2016). PET is a nuclear oncology screening that includes F18-fluoro-2-deoxy-D-glucose (FDG) as a marker and is effective for disease staging. It utilizes a scintillation detector to examine the adsorption of FDG into different tissues qualitatively and quantitatively (Raman et al., 2015). FDG, a carbohydrate analogue specifically absorbed by quickly metabolizing cells, is the most extensively used PET tracer, and it has been clinically authorized for distant staging (Heusch et al., 2014). Although glucose metabolism seems exclusive to cancer cells, FDG imaging can be counterproductive in some circumstances (Goel et al., 2017). The Positron emission tomography deciphers with the help of fluoro-2 deoxy-glucose have been demonstrated to be an effective as well as a helpful approach to lung cancer in the clinical diagnosis and administration, based on the effectiveness in diagnosing and assessing response for anti-cancer or cancer prevention (Ghadiri-Sani et al., 2016). PET has several shortcomings, including being inadequate for determining local tumour progression and vascular participation while not being regarded as a viable first-line scan for detecting a primary pancreatic cancer. On the other hand, the absence of FDG intake and sensitivity in tiny lesions < 1 cm in size does not always imply benignity. But they\'re still an intriguing possibility for distant assessment, with some research indicating that they can assist in detecting distant metastases (Raman et al., 2015).\r\nUltrasound Imaging (USI). Also known as ultrasonography or sonogram, it is a quick, pain-free, and safe method involving no special preparation and allows easy monitoring of the target organ (Zhou, 2013). It uses high-frequency sound waves and detects images that cannot be visualized through X-rays involving zero exposure to any kind of radiation. It is also an inexpensive technique compared to MRI, CT, PET, or X-rays with high soft-tissue resolution (Rembielak et al., 2011; Sharma et al., 2012). Though ultrasound cannot distinguish between a benign and a malignant tumour, it can identify small lesions present in the soft tissues without the use of any staining in the living tissue (Wang & Yang, 2021). It can detect morphological changes in the tissue and perform tomographic imaging of the specific organs with crisp localization, leading to finding carcinogenic lesions easier (H. Zhou et al., 2021). Ultrasound of the abdomen and the lower abdomen demands the urinary bladder to be almost complete as sound waves (known as Doppler ultrasound) travel better in the fluid environment leading to better detection of the gynaecologicaltumours, cysts, or metastatic lesions present in the organs (Fischerova, 2011; Wang & Yang, 2021). It is usually beneficial for superficial organs like the breast and thyroid and is also used when mammography fails to visualize the dense breast tissues (Barkan et al., 2018; Sharma et al., 2012). Types of ultrasonography include endoscopic ultrasonography, endovaginal ultrasonography, abdominal ultrasonography, endorectal ultrasonography as well as transrectal ultrasonography, which are used for the determination of pancreatic cancer, the thickness of the endometrium, liver lesions, rectal tumors, and prostate cancer respectively (Anastasio & La Riviere 2012; Barkan et al., 2018; Minnard et al., 1998; Shafford et al., 1999). However, whole-body imaging remains an issue as it is only applicable to soft tissues, and visualization of hard tissues cannot be done and is limited to the vasculature. Furthermore, visualizing structures with a certain depth and the test\'s dependency on the operator pose issues (Barkan et al., 2018).\r\nFluorescence Imaging (FI). Fluorescence imaging is a non-invasive imaging method that can visualize biological processes in a living organism. Fluorescence is a type of luminescence that occurs when matter absorbs electromagnetic energy and emits light of a specific wavelength. Fluorophores are molecules that re-emit light after being exposed to it (Hu et al., 2019; Sirbu et al., 2019). In oncology, fluorescence imaging (FI) is quite promising for the diagnosis of cancerous cells. To enhance the identification of early neoplasia based on molecular markers, fluorescence imaging (FI) for cancer cell targeting employs several optical imaging methods. The objective of cancer imaging should be to discover or image as few tumour cells as possible, ideally before the angiogenic switch occurs (Frangioni, 2008). Compared to currently existing approaches, FI may help detect malignant lesions with greater specificity and sensitivity. Furthermore, FI may offer a less intrusive and cost-effective method of detecting malignant and pre-cancerous tumours. Other imaging methods have been recently reported for the non-invasive longitudinal detection of small micrometastases and single cancer cells in a mouse brain (Naumov et al., 2006). The capacity to detect lesions sooner than traditional approaches will result in improved treatment results and lower treatment costs since it will eliminate the requirement for multimodality care, which is essential for individuals diagnosed at advanced presentation (Tipirneni et al., 2017). FIS (fluorescence imaging system), setup and apparatus-wise, is portable equipment that allows for real-time quantitative fluorescent imaging. An infrared camera and an amplifier are included in the system. Fluorescence picture acquisition is secured by a captor, which filters the light so that only near-infrared wavelengths can be observed. At the same time,a laser provides fluorescence excitation (LED generating an infrared radiance) across the operating area. It is not necessary to sanitize the camera or the cable. (Rossi et al., 2018) Because of the distance of the connection, the amplifier and the screen are far enough apart that a nonsterile individual may carry the IR camera (infrared) above the sterilized operating field. Five fluorescent imaging technologies are currently available in this modern era for cancer diagnosis. High-resolution microendoscopy, in short, is also stated as the HRME technique. Here all the fluorescent methods work on the intensity of their penetration depth. So, HRME shows a 50 μm depth, which gives a high-resolution result. Further, it has some limitations, like it only applies to the mucosa on the surface and shows applications like Handheld fluorescence imaging (Joshi et al., 2016). Optical coherence tomography (OCT) gives penetration depth up to 3mm and shows limitations like stability and sterility issues, problems with reproducibility, and suboptimal resolution. The results rely enormously on the operator and its applications, like fluorescence imaging during surgery and fluorescence imaging using a handheld device (Joshi et al., 2016). The autofluorescence technique shows up to 5mm depth of penetration, which decreases the specificity. This can also be visualized in this technique as limitations like high background and low specificity. Its usefulness can be seen in applications like fluorescence imaging using a handheld device and fluorescence imaging during surgery (Tipirneni et al., 2017). Near-infrared imaging, which is also known as NIR imaging this technique show depth of penetration up to 10 mm it has improved factors in its specificity but shows limitations like Depth penetration has improved, Reduced autofluorescence in the background and become specific to the tumour, and has increment in application along with the previous application it also has endoscopic fluorescence imaging and Fluorescent lymphoscintigraphy (Joshi et al., 2016). Photoacoustic imaging is the last technique in the series of five fluorescence techniques which shows penetration depth around 3 to 20 mm it has limitations of improved depth penetration. Still, it has a similar field of application to intraoperative fluorescence imaging and fluorescent lymphoscintigraphy (Tipirneni et al., 2017). As seen above, these conventional methods are good tools for cancer diagnosis, but only to some extent. This boundary is formed by the intrinsic limitations of these diagnostic techniques, such as low specificity, low sensitivity, etc., which might also result in false results. This can lead to late identification and eventually the patient\'s death due to delayed detection and treatment. So, to overcome these limitations, nanotechnology is emerging and advancing at an incredible pace. These nanotechnological tools, alone or along with the conventional methods, can entirely change the course of cancer diagnosis, breaking the barriers of traditional techniques. As a result, nanotechnology can make cancer diagnosis cheaper, more reliable and accurate, quick and safe, and more affordable in terms of the maintenance cost of the machinery.\r\n','Girish Sawhney, Aditya Rattan Bhardwaj, Diotima Bhattacharya, Munendra Singh, Kumar Sanu, Reena Singh, Daljeet Singh Dhanjal and Chirag Chopra (2022). Conventional Cancer Diagnostic Tools in the Modern Times: A Review. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 14(2): 667-674.'),(4925,'125','Study on Open Pollination in Tuberose (Agave amica Medik.)','Bhuvana M.*, P. Aruna, R. Ravikesavan, M. Ganga and N. Manikanda Boopathi','114 Study on Open Pollination in Tuberose _Agave amica Medik.pdf','',1,'Tuberose is one of the commercial important loose as well as cut flower. There is limited diversity in tuberose hence development of new variety with improved growth and yield is required. As the tuberose is self incompatible and dichogamy in nature open pollination was carried out. Seven single type tuberose genotypes were allowed for open pollination. The fruit set was observed in Arka Nirantara, Variegated Single, Bidhan Rajani-2, GK-T-C-4, Bidhan Rajani-3 and there was no fruit set in Arka Prajwal and Bidhan Rajani-1. Maximum fruit set percentage (24.39%), minimum days for fruit maturity (58.66 days) and more number of seeds per capsule (26.77) were recorded in Bidhan Rajani-2 followed by Arka Nirantara. Poor fruit set was observed in Bidhan Rajani-3. Germination and seedling growth of open pollinated seeds were studied. Higher germination percentage was recorded in Bidhan Rajani-2 (76.89%) followed by Arka Nirantara (75.45%) and Bidhan Rajani-3 with lower germination percentage of 20.11%. Growth parameters like number of roots, number of leaves, root length and shoot length were also measured where number of root and shoot were in the range of 1.07-2.03 and 2.02-2.22 in all genotypes respectively. Longest root length was recorded in Arka Nirantara (11.56 cm) and shoot length in Variegated Single (15.34 cm). Vigour index was higher in Arka Nirantara (1994.14) and lower in Bidhan Rajani-3 (458.11).','Tuberose, Open pollination, Germination, Diversity, Vigour index','Open pollination study in tuberose genotypes was conducted to develop a new variety with improved qualitative and quantitative characters. Arka Nirantara and Bidhan Rajani-2 recorded higher fruit set compared to the other genotypes and no fruit was recorded in Arka Prajwal and Bidhan Rajani-1. Fruit set in tuberose was mainly influenced by the genetic and pollen- pistil interaction of the genotypes. Generally, germination of tuberose seeds is very poor where in this study Arka Nirantara and Bidhan Rajani- 2 observed higher germination percentage. Growth parameters of the open pollinated seeds did not exhibit much variation. The growth parameters were influenced by both genetic and environmental conditions. From this, it was concluded that Arka Nirantara and Bidhan Rajani- 2 can be used as a parent for hybrid development. Further evaluation of the open pollinated seedlings was needed for the development of a variety in tuberose.','INTRODUCTION \r\nTuberose (Agave amica Medik.) (Syn. Polianthes tuberosa L.) is one of the commercially important bulbous flower crop which belongs to the family Asparagaceae (Chase et al., 2016). It is native to Mexico (Bailey, 1919) and is grown wildly in the tropical and subtropical regions of India (Benschop, 1993). It is commonly called as Rajanigandha or Nishigandha because of its night blooming habitat. It is cultivated in major states of India like Tamil Nadu, Karnataka, West Bengal, Maharashtra, Haryana, Punjab, Andhra Pradesh, Telangana, Uttar Pradesh and Delhi In India, total production of tuberose is 1,97,210 tonnes (2015-2016) (NHB). In Tamil Nadu, the total area under tuberose cultivation during 2019-20 is 7,654 ha and its production is 66,355 tonnes (Salient Statistics on Agriculture, Agriculture Department, Govt. of Tamil Nadu, 2021).\r\nTuberose is mainly valued for its ornamental beauty, sweet fragrant spikes with excellent keeping quality (Sadhu and Bose, 1973). Flowers are used in bouquets, garland, floral arrangements, floral ornaments and buttonholes. Tuberose is classified in to three types based on the number of tepal whorls viz single (one whorl), semi double (2-3 whorl) and double (more than 3 whorl). Variegated type also available which is used in landscape gardening. Essential oil of tuberose occupies a special place in the international market. Single type is preferred for the concrete extraction over double type because of its high recovery percentage of 0.08- 0.11% by solvent extraction (Singh, 1995) and double type is recommended for cut flower purposes. There is limited variety available in tuberose due to the constraints like self incompatibility, limited genetic resources, dichogamy and poor seed setting (Hemanta et al., 2016).\r\nIn tuberose, developing new variety with improved quantitative and qualitative character is essential. Before conducting any breeding work thorough knowledge on the plant characteristics is a prerequisite. In tuberose seed setting is quiet erratic in single type, not observed in double type and high percentage of seed setting is found in variegated types (Datta, 2017). Joshi and Pantulu (1940) reported that the reason for sterility in tuberose is not known but it is not due to any defects or deformation in pollen grains and embryo sac development. Hence, it is possible to create genetic variability in tuberose by allowing genes to express in different combinations. This can be achieved by selecting seedlings from the open pollinated or cross pollinated types (Hemanta et al., 2016). With these basic strategies the open pollination study was conducted in selected tuberose genotypes.\r\nMATERIALS AND METHODS\r\nThis study was conducted in the Department of Floriculture and Landscape Architecture, Tamil Nadu agricultural university, Coimbatore during the year 2019-2020. Seven single type tuberose genotypes were selected for this study viz, Arka Nirenthara, Variegated Single, GK-T-C-4, Bidhan Rajani-1 (Shnigdha), Bidhan Rajani-2 (Ujwal), Bidhan Rajani-3 (Joythi) and Arka Prajwal (Table 1). Fully developed flower buds in the selected genotypes were allowed for open pollination. Only one spike per plant was used, remaining spikes were bagged to avoid contamination. This experiment was laid out in randomized block design (Panse and Sukhatme 1961). After two weeks, observations like days taken for maturity, number of pods per spike, fruit set percentage and fruit number of seeds per capsule (from fully matured) were recorded. \r\nFrom the matured pods, the seeds were collected and seed germination study was carried out. Observation viz, germination percentage, days taken for seed germination (germination complete once the radicle protruded about 1cm in length), seedling height, vigour index (Germination percentage × (root + shoot length) by Abdul Baki and Anderson, 1973), root and shoot growth was recorded. This experiment was laid out in completely randomized design (Panse and Sukhatme, 1961).\r\nStatistical analysis. Observations recorded were subjected to analysis of variances (ANOVA) using SPSS 20.2 statistical software. The significant difference between the genotypes was determined by least significant difference (LSD) at 5% probability. \r\nRESULT AND DISCUSSION \r\nOpen pollination in different genotypes. Initial number of florets per spike of each genotype was recorded before it was allowed for open pollination. It is observed from the Table 2 that maximum number of florets per spike was recorded in BR-I (32.67) followed by Arka Prajwal (31.83) and minimum number of florets was observed in GKTC-4 (27.53).After two weeks of pollination, the fruits starts to develop. Fruit formation was recorded in genotypes such as Arka Nirantara, Variegated Single, GK-T-C-4, Bidhan Rajani-2, Bidhan Rajani-3 and not in Arka Prajwal and Bidhan Rajani-1. Fruit set was not observed in all the genotypes. In some genotypes there was no fruit development. Poor fruit set and failure of fruit formation maybe due to incompatibility, lack of pollen germination and pollen tube growth. Hemanta et al. (2016) reported that in open pollination, the low frequency of fruit set and capsule formation may be attributed to the less presence of insect vectors and \r\npollinators. Whereas Bharathi et al. (2021) also observed degeneration of embryo sac after zygote formation in genotype Arka Prajwal due to incompatibility. Days taken for maturity was calculated from the day of pollination to the fruit development stage (dried pods). Days taken for fruit maturity were significantly different between the genotypes. Minimum number of days taken for maturity was observed in Bidhan Rajani-2 (58.66) followed by Arka Nirantara (59.34) and maximum days was observed in Variegated Single (64.87). \r\nBidhan Rajani-2 had higher number of fruit per spike of 7.37 and lower in Bidhan Rajani-3 of 2.12. Percentage fruit set was observed higher in Bidhan Rajani-2 (24.39%) followed by Arka Nirantara (20.93%) and Bidhan Rajani- 3 with a minimum of 6.66% of fruit set. Number of seeds per capsule significantly varies between the genotypes. Maximum number of seeds per capsule was recorded in Bidhan Rajani-2 (26.77) followed by Arka Nirantara (20.43) and minimum seed number was in Bidhan Rajani-3 (15.82). Variation in seed set by different genotype might be due to genetic and environmental factors. Ranchana et al. (2014) observed that under open pollination, the highest percentage of fruit set was reported in Variegated Single (89.00%) and similar result was also obtained by Seetharamu et al. (2000). In Arka Prajwal the pod abscission observed after crossing was due to post zygotic barrier (Bharathi et al., 2021). Similarly, Hemanta et al. (2016) also studied open pollination in tuberose and recoded maximum mean number of fruit set (7.33) and percentage of fruit set in a spike (21.77%) in Arka Nirantara. There was no fruit set in Arka Prajwal, this was also observed by Ranchana and Kannan (2016).\r\nGermination and seedling growth of open pollinated seeds. Matured pods from the genotypes were collected then seeds germination and seedling development were observed (Table 3). There was significant difference among the genotypes in the seed germination characteristics. Minimum number of days taken for seed germination was recorded in Bidhan Rajani-2 (22.13) which is on par with Arka Nirantara (22.56) and maximum number of days was in Bidhan Rajani- 3 (32.48). Germination percentage was observed higher in Bidhan Rajani-2 (76.89%) followed by Arka Nirantara (75.45%) and lower germination percentage in Bidhan Rajani- 3 (20.11). Variation in the days taken for germination and germination percentage may be due to the genetic makeup of the genotype and environmental conditions. Similarly, Raja et al. (2003) also observed a maximum of 66% germination in tuberose seeds when fresh seeds were sown and Hemanta (2015) recorded 26% germination.\r\nSeedling growth parameters were recorded after one month of sowing the seeds. Number of roots per seedling was on par between the genotypes. Maximum number was observed in Arka Nirantara (2.13) and minimum number in Bidhan Rajani- 3 (1.07). Number of leaves per seedling was also recorded and mostly in all the genotypes two leaves develops. Higher root and shoot length was recorded in Arka Nirantara (11.56, 15.34 cm respectively), lower root length in Variegated Single (9.44 cm) and lower shoot length in GKTC-4 (10.31). Ranchana et al (2014) also studied the germination of open pollinated tuberose seeds with different seed treatments and obtained root length in the range of 7.46-12.80 cm with shoot length range of 7.21-14.40 cm. Based on the germination percentage and seedling growth the vigour index of the genotype was calculated. Maximum vigour index was obtained in Arka Nirantara (1426.01) followed by Bidhan Rajani- 2 (1380.18) and minimum number in Bidhan Rajani- 3 (256.40) (Fig. 1). Similarly, variation in vigour index of China aster genotype was observed by Pandey et al. (2017).\r\n','Bhuvana M., P. Aruna, R. Ravikesavan, M. Ganga and N. Manikanda Boopathi (2022). Study on Open Pollination in Tuberose (Agave amica Medik.). Biological Forum – An International Journal, 14(2): 675-678.'),(4926,'125','Awareness Regarding Hygiene Management Practices Followed by Dairy Farmers in Sultanpur District of Uttar Pradesh','Ajay Kumar, H.C. Verma*, R.K. Singh, R.P. Diwakar, Rajesh Kumar, V.K. Pal and Mustak Ahmad','115 Awareness Regarding Hygiene Management Practices Followed by Dairy Farmers in Sultanpur District of Uttar Pradesh H.C.pdf','',1,'The present study was carried by M.VSc student of Department of Veterinary & A.H. Extension Education, ANDUAT, Kumarganj, and Ayodhya out in Sultanpur district of Uttar Pradesh is an attempt to analyze the relationship of status of dairy farmers with their awareness regarding hygiene management practices. The information were composed with the help of pre design question schedule by contacting the sample dairy farmers personally the help of local leader in the research areaby random sampling method, for selection of district and block purposively due to the researcher is well equated about the work the socio-cultural status of the district which help in quick rapport building that is essential for authentic data collection .The information were generated from 120 dairy farmers from four blocks i.e. Kurebhar, Kurwar, Dhanpatganj, Baldirai selected for data collection, three villages from each randomly selected block were randomly selected with lottery method by preparing the list of the village where sufficient number of dairy farmers was available. Overall finding reported that the majority 35.83 percent of the dairy farmers were having medium, 32.50 Low and 31.67 high hygiene management practices like cleaning of housing & cleaning of floor, washing of animals, use of disinfection in animal shed, washing of animal udder at the time of milking, washing of hand at the time of milking, Clean milk production followed by dairy farmers in the study area.','Awareness, Hygiene Management, Dairy farmer','Majority 35.83 per cent of dairy farmer’s follow the medium and 32.50 per cent have low hygiene management practices like cleaning of housing & cleaning of floor, washing of animals, use of disinfection in animal shed, washing of animal udder at the time of milking, washing of hand at the time of milking, Clean milk production practices by dairy farmers of dairy animals in the study area. So aware the dairy farmer for enhancement the percentage of hygiene in animal husbandry practices by awareness programme like animal health camps, animal fairs and other veterinary awareness programme in the study. ',' INTRODUCTION\r\nClean milk can be defined as milk produced from healthy mulch animal possessing normal flavor, devoid of dirt, and filth containing permissible limit of bacteria, and essentially free from adulterants, pathogens, various toxins, abnormal residues, pollutants, and metabolites.\r\nThe clean milk production (CMP) involves cleanliness at different phases of handling animals, processing, and transporting of milk and milk products. Stringent quality control and hygienic measures are required at a dairy farm level to maintain the milk quality. The milk quality is determined by aspects of composition and hygiene of milk. There are mainly four factors to be considered in CMP practices: Animal hygiene, milking hygiene, equipment hygiene, and processing hygiene. Contaminated milk deteriorates quickly and is a cause for health concerns. One of the major causes of illness in various countries is the transmission of diseases through food. Zoonosis is diseases and infections that are naturally transmitted between vertebrate animals and humans. Zoonosis constitutes 61% of all known infectious diseases. It may also be noted that of the 175 diseases considered to be emerging, 75% are zoonotic. We came out with that women play a significant role in livestock farming with a better performance rate (Rathod et al., 2016). On the contrary, it could not be concluded that diminishing knowledge gap can mitigate the farmer’s behavior or lack of good hygiene (Alarcon et al., 2014). Now, the insignificant correlation between good hygiene practice and education of our survey meets the description of some previous survey (Hickler, 2007; Ly et al., 2007). According to those result there is a knowledge-to-action gap as attitudes and norms are influenced by various background factors (Osbjer et al., 2015).\r\nMATERIALS AND METHODS\r\nThe present study was carried out in Sultanpur district of Uttar Pradesh purposively because it is not only the highest milk producing state (BAHS, 2017) but also it has a large population depend on livestock beside agriculture for their livelihood security. This study is an attempt to analyze the relationship of status of dairy farmers with their awareness regarding hygiene management practices. The data were collected with the help of pre design interview schedule by contacting the sample dairy farmers personally the help of local leaderrandom sampling method is apply for selection of District and Block The selection of district purposively due to the researcher is well equated about the work the socio-cultural status of the district which help in quick rapport building that is essential for authentic data collection. There are 14 blocks in sultanpur district, out of which 4 blocks i.e. Kurebhar, Kurwar, Dhanpatganj, Baldirai selected for data collection., Three villages from each randomly selected block were randomly selected with lottery method by preparing the list of the village where sufficient number of dairy farmers was available. The information was generated from 120 dairy farmers.\r\nHygiene management practices \r\nPractices of the respondent 40 management practices and 40 and expected answers were used. Some of the hygiene management practices were taken from expert and were finalized by consulting the expert of dairy science and animal husbandry. Score \'3\' was assigned for knowing the high knowledge, score \'2\' was assigned for knowing the medium knowledge and score \'1\' was assigned for low knowledge about the expected answer of the respected hygiene management practices like Cleaning of housing & Flooring, Washing of animals, Use of disinfection in animal shed, Washing of animal udder at the time of milking, Washing of hand at the time of milking, Clean milk production practices\r\nCleaning of housing & Flooring–It means use soap-based detergents, which available in market for washing of animal’s houses and floor by the dairy farmers and also used some other technique like film on the floor and avoid over –wetting on the floor of animals houses.\r\nWashing of animals-Washing of animals regularly, which soap available in market for washing of animal’s houses and floor by the dairy farmers and also used some other technique like film on the floor and avoid over –wetting on the floor of animals houses.\r\nUse of disinfection in animal shed. Bacteria are everywhere: in soil, in water, on animals and on humans. The purpose of disinfection is to decrease infection pressure and thus decrease disease prevalence. Choosing the disinfectant adapted to each specific situation leads to effective prevention and a profitable dairy farm.\r\nWashing of animal udder at the time of milking. The hindquarters, thighs and udder should be washed thoroughly before milking. If more hair growth is seen in the udder region, it should be clipped periodically. Buffaloes should be invariably washed before milking. Just before milking udder should be wiped in dry cloth.\r\nClean milk production practices-Milker’s hands and milking pails/cans should be thoroughly washed or scrubbed and kept clean.\r\nMilkers should wear clean clothes and cover their heads with suitable cap so as to prevent loose hair falling in the milk The nails should be periodically trimmed and made smooth Hands should be thoroughly washed and cleaned with antiseptic solutions. So research will have a greater scope to increase awareness regarding hygiene management practices of dairy farmers\r\nRESULTS AND DISCUSION\r\nA. Hygiene Management practices by dairy farmers:\r\n(i) Cleaning of Flooring: Table 1 showed that majority 5.83 percent of the dairy farmers were having medium, 1.67 Low and 92.50 highCleaning of Flooring followed by dairy farmers of dairy animals in research area.Cleaning of Flooring in animal’s house to avoid the risk of occurring of disease in animals.\r\n(ii) Use of disinfection in animal shed: Table 2 showed that majority 65.83 percent of the dairy farmers were having medium, 26.67 Low and 7.50 high Use of disinfection in animal shed followed by dairy farmers of dairy animals in research area. Use of disinfection in animal shed is also help in prevention and control of disease in animals.\r\n(iii) Washing hand at the time of milking: Table 3 showed that majority 13.33 percent of the dairy farmers were having medium, 11.67 Low and 75.00 high followedWashing Hand at the time of milkingby dairy farmers of dairy animals in research area. Washing hand at the time of milking has good effect in the direction clean milk production.\r\n(iv) Washing of animal: Table 4 showed that majority percent 39.17 of the dairy farmers were having medium, 2.50 Low and 58.3 high followed by Washing of animaldairy farmers of dairy animals in research area.Washing of animal hygienic effect towards the clean milk production.\r\n(v) Washing udder at the time of milking: Table 5 showed that majority 22.50 percent of the dairy farmers were having medium, 20.00 Low and 57.50 high followed by dairy farmers of dairy animals in research area.\r\n(vi) Clean milk production practices: Table 6 showed that majority 59.17 percent of the dairy farmers were having medium, 12.50 Low and 28.33 high followedclean milk production practices by dairy farmers of dairy animals in research area.Clean milk production to prevent the zoonosis and good health of human being. Similar finding optioned (Verma, et al., 2018) majority of dairy farmers have medium level of clean milk production.\r\nB. Pooled Hygiene Management practices by dairy farmers\r\nTable 7 showed that majority 35.83 percent of the dairy farmers were having medium, 32.50 Low and 31.67 high followed Hygiene Management Practices, like Cleaning of housing & flooring, washing of animals, use of disinfection in animal shed, washing of animal udder at the time of milking, washing of hand at the time of milking, clean milk production practices by dairy farmers of dairy animals in research area. Finding reported by Andrew et al., (2021) hygienic milk and handling practices under small holder dairy farmers related to hygiene management practices.\r\n\r\n','Ajay Kumar, H.C. Verma, R.K. Singh, R.P. Diwakar, Rajesh Kumar, V.K. Pal and Mustak Ahmad (2022). Awareness Regarding Hygiene Management Practices Followed by Dairy Farmers in Sultanpur District of Uttar Pradesh. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 14(2): 679-682.'),(4927,'125','Evaluation of Moisture Stress Indices and Biplot Analysis in Coriander under Normal and Staggered Moisture Regimes','Ravi Kumawat*, Dhirendra Singh, Kana Ram Kumawat, Sarla Kumawat and Madhu Choudhary','116 Evaluation of Moisture Stress Indices and Biplot Analysis in Coriander under Normal and Staggered Moisture Regimes Ravi Kumawat.pdf','',1,'Drought is one of the major abiotic stresses influencing performance of crop plants. Therefore, identification or development of tolerant genotypes is of high importance in crops. that limit the crop production worldwide. The thirty genotypes of coriander was evaluated at two environments viz., normal condition (E1) and limited moisture condition (E2) in RBD with three replications during rabi 2016-2017. Eight moisture stress indices as TOL, SSI, STI, MP, GMP, YI, SSPI, Ys, Yp and MSTI were calculated from seed yield per plant under both the conditions for each of the genotype. The MSS due to all the three sources as environments, genotypes and G x E interactions were found highly significant for seed yield on pooled basis indicating interaction among the genotypes and prevailing environmental conditions. The six indices viz., STI, MP, GMP, YI, K1STI and K2STI had showed high positive and significant association with seed yield under both the conditions as stress (Ys) and non-stress (Yp) suggesting they would be more effective in screening of stress tolerant genotypes in both the conditions. The combined analysis of variance (AMMI) revealed that majority of the total variation was accounted for by the environments (73.55 %) followed by genotypes (23.84 %) and G × E interaction (2.60 %). Among the thirty genotypes, UD-705, UD-769 and UD-529 recorded best average seed yield along with relatively low scores of PCA-1 indicating small interaction with environment and yield stability over environments. According to overall rank sum method of all indices, genotypes UD-705, UD-529, UD-769, RCr-20 and RCr-475 were found most tolerant. Hence, these genotypes may be used in breeding programmes, especially for development of stress tolerant varieties for drought in coriander.','Stress indices, AMMI and biplot, coriander, stress and non stress condition','The genotypes UD-705, UD-529, UD-769, RCr-20 and RCr-475 were found most tolerant genotypes i.e. for moisture stress based on overall rank sum method. The correlation analysis among the indices revealed that the indices STI, MP, GMP, YI, K1STI and K2STI were \r\nstrongly correlated with seed yield under both the environmental condition as non-stress (E1) and stress condition (E2) and can be used as selection criteria to screen stress tolerant genotypes. The indices TOL, SSI, YI and SSPI could be used as selection criteria for screening of stress tolerant genotypes in stress environment as they exhibited good correlation with seed yield under E2 environment. The tolerant genotypes found under the study may be used in coriander breeding programmes especially for drought stress after further their multi location trials. \r\n','INTRODUCTION\r\nCoriander (Coriandrum sativum L.) is an important seed spice crop belongs to the Apiaceae family having somatic chromosome number 22 (2n=22). It grows well in tropical and sub-tropical regions with dry climate. The high temperature at maturity phase and insufficient and erratic distribution of rainfall affects seed yield as well oil content. Tolerance of plants against moisture stress is a complex quantitative trait with low heritability (Fereres and Soriano 2007) and thus it halts and complicates the breeding for resistance to drought or moisture stress. An ideal and effective approach for identifying stress tolerant genotypes is based on mean seed yield under drought stress and non-stress environments. Araus et al. (2002); White et al. (1998) has suggested selection of genotypes based on their yield response in two or more normal and stress environments. The various stress indices that screen or select the genotypes based on their resistant or susceptible (Fernandez, 1992) towards moisture stress have been used by many researcher and plant breeders (Mitra, 2001). Hall, (1993) defined the drought tolerance or resistance as response of genotype in terms of grain yield when they are subjected to same level of moisture stress. Blum, (1998) defined drought stress or susceptibility of a genotype a as function of reduction in yield under drought stress. The index MP (mean productivity) measures the average yield of genotype across the two environments, while TOL (Rosielle and Hamblin 1981) measures the difference in degree of yield response over the stress (Ys) and non-stress (Yp) environments. Another index SSI captures the changes in both potential and actual yields in variable environments (Fischer and Maurer 1978). The larger value of TOL and SSI indicates relatively more sensitivity towards stress, thus a smaller value of TOL and SSI are suitable and indicates tolerance for moisture stress. The value of stress susceptibility index more than one (SSI >1) indicates above average susceptibility, while a value less than one indicates (SSI<1) below-average susceptibility towards moisture stress (Guttieri et al., 2001). The index STI selects the genotypes that produce high yield under both stress and non-stress conditions (Fernandez, 1992). The GMP index measures relative yield response of a genotype over two environments since in field environments, the stress level can be vary in severity (Fernandez, 1992). Thus, two indices viz., STI and GMP screen genotypes having high yield potential and stress tolerance (Fernandez, 1992). Similarly, two indices as YI (Gavuzzi et al., 1997) and SSPI (Moosavi et al., 2008) evaluate the genotypes based on yield stability under two environments.\r\nMATERIALS AND METHODS\r\nThe present investigation was carried out using thirty genotypes of coriander taken from germplasm center of AICRP on seed Spices, SKNCOA, Jobner. These genotypes were evaluated at Agronomy Farm of S.K.N. College of Agriculture, Jobner in RBD layout with 3 replications during rabi 2016-17 in two environments, namely, (i) normal condition (non-stress, E1) and (ii) Limited moisture condition (stress, E2). The required irrigations was supplied in normal condition (E1), while half of the irrigations was provided in limited moisture condition (E2) in staggered manner from sowing to maturity of the crop. The each genotype was sown in a single row plot of 3 m length by maintaining crop geometry of 30 x 10 cm (R x P) in each environment or replication. The Jobner is located in Jaipur district of Rajasthan with typically semi-arid climate and falls in agroclimatic zone III A (Semi-arid Eastern Plain Zone) of Rajasthan. Annually, the place receives 300-400 mm rainfall and temperature during summers goes high as 480 C, while extreme low in winter (-1.00 C) season. The five randomly plant from each plot/environment selected and average seed yield per plant (g) was worked out for each of the genotype under both the conditions as non-stress (Yp) and stress (Ys).\r\nStatistical Analysis: The analysis of variance was carried out on pooled basis to assess the interaction between genotypes and environments. The variation accounted to each source of variation was estimated as percentage of variance explained of total sum of squares. The ranking of genotypes was carried out according to each of the stress index. Based on indices, the genotype with the highest value for Ys, Yp, MP, GMP, STI, K1STI, K2STI and YI and the lowest value for SSI, TOL and SSPI received a rank one. The correlation among the moisture stress indices as well as Yp, Ys were also carried out to determine the most desirable combination of stress indices for screening the best tolerant genotypes. The pooled ANOVA for AMMI and biplot analysis were performed using GEA-R version 4.1 (CIMMYT, Mexico).\r\nRESULTS AND DISCUSSION\r\nA. Pooled ANOVA and mean Comparison\r\nThe mean squares (Table 1) due to genotypes were found highly significant for seed yield per plant on pooled basis indicating significant differences among the genotypes. The variance due to environments as well as genotypes x environments interaction for seed yield per plant (g) were also found highly significant indicating differential yield response of genotypes towards the two different environments (E1 and E2) and their role in character expression. The per cent share of each source of variance towards per cent total sum of squares (% TSS) revealed that 69 per cent of total sum of squares was accounted for environments (E) effect indicating most important source of yield variation. Similarly, the per cent share of genotypes (G) and G × E interactions effects was 22.37 per cent and 2.44 per cent of total sum of squares, respectively. \r\nThe mean seed yield (Yp) was ranged from 4.42 g (UD-554) to 6.15 g (UD-769) in non-stress environment (E1) with the overall mean of 5.01 g. While, mean seed yield (Ys) was ranged from 3.09 g (UD-461) to 4.63 g (UD-705) in stress environment (E2) with the overall mean of 3.52 g. The average seed yield of genotypes in the stress condition (Ys) was found to be 29.74 percent lower than in the non-stress condition. Thus, the genotypes experienced moisture stress during the crop growing period in stress environment (E2) and the stress intensity (Fischer and Maurer) [12] was equal to 0.29. The top five performing genotypes were UD-769, UD-705, RCr-684, UD-529 and RCr-20, whereas the genotypes UD-554, UD-704, UD-461, UD-169 and UD-489 showed lower seed yield in non-stress (E1) environment. Similarly, genotypes UD-705, UD-769, UD-529, RCr-20 and RCr-684 depicted higher seed yield and UD-461, UD-747, UD-751, UD-23 and UD-566 showed lower seed yield in stress environment (E2). \r\nB. Moisture stress indices\r\nAccording to stress tolerance index (TOL), higher value of TOL indicates susceptibility of the genotype to stress and fluctuation in response in terms of seed yield in stress and non-stress conditions (Table 3). The genotypes UD-554, UD-580, UD-723, UD-704 and UD-489 were found most tolerant as they occupied lower values TOL index, whereas genotypes UD-513, RCr-684, UD-783, UD-709 and UD-747 were found most sensitive as they displayed higher values of TOL index. In accordance with stress susceptibility index (SSI), genotypes UD-513, UD-783, UD-747, UD-709 and UD-23 had showed higher values of SSI index indicating their minimum tolerance to moisture stress. The genotypes UD-554, UD-580, UD-723, UD-705 and UD-704 were found more tolerance against moisture stress (lower values of SSI). It was found that the SSPI and TOL index resulted the same genotype ranking with different values of their respective index. Similarly, the geometric mean productivity (GMP) resulted the same genotype ranking as stress tolerance index (STI) with different values of their respective index. A relatively similar pattern of ranking of genotypes was observed for the three indices viz., MP, GMP and STI under the study. According to the STI index (high STI), genotypes UD-705, UD-769, UD-529, RCr-684 and RCr-20 were found stress tolerant with high seed yield under both the conditions E1 and E2, while UD-461, UD-169, UD-751, UD-717 and UD-704 were the genotypes with least rank. According to mean productivity (MP), higher value of MP for a genotype is directly proportional to its tolerance towards moisture stress and vice versa thus genotypes UD-705, UD-769, UD-529, RCr-684 and RCr-20 were found most tolerant, whereas, the genotypes UD-461, UD-169, UD-717, UD-751 and UD-704 were found least tolerant towards moisture stress. The yield index (YI) can also serve as a selection criterion as it only ranks cultivars based on their yield (Ys) under stress environment (E2). Thus, according to this index, genotypes UD-705, UD-769, UD-529, RCr-20 and RCr-684 had displayed highest values for YI and Ys, hence proved to be more resilient towards moisture stress. The genotypes UD-461, UD-747, UD-751, UD-566 and UD-23 depicted lower YI and Ys indicating their susceptibility for moisture stress. \r\nC. Correlation analysis\r\nThe simple correlation was carried out among the various stress indices including Yp, Ys to know the most desirable combination of indices suitable for screening of tolerant genotypes (Table 2).\r\nTalebi et al. (2007) has suggested that those indices are best which have high correlation with seed yield in both non-stress (E1) and stress environment (E2) conditions and would be able to identify potential high yielding and moisture stress tolerant genotypes. A significant association (r= 0.820**) was found between seed yield under stress (Ys) and non-stress condition (Yp). These results are found in corroboration with the findings of Fernandez (1992), Mohammadi et al. (2010), Farshadfar et al. (2012) and Sahar et al. (2016). The seed yield under non-stress (Yp) had high significant positive association with the eight indices as TOL, STI, MP, GMP, YI, SSPI and K1STI and K2STI and positive non-significant association with SSI. Similarly, index Ys had high significant positive association with STI, MP, GMP, YI and K2STI, K1STI and significant negative association with SSI. It was observed that the seed yield in stress (Ys) and non-stress condition (Yp) was significantly and positively correlated with the stress indices STI, MP, GMP, YI, K1STI and K2STI indicating that these indices screen genotypes which have uniform superiority or stress tolerance (Fernandez, 1992). Siahsar et al. (2010) in lentil, Zare and Saeidi et al. (2012) in barley, Singh et al. (2015) and Mohammed and Kadhem (2017) in wheat obtained similar results. \r\nD. Ranking method\r\nThe screening of tolerant genotypes according to single criteria (indices) was found contradictory and different indices introduced different or same genotypes as stress tolerant. Thus, the sum of rank of all indices including Ys and Yp of genotypes were used to calculate overall rank of genotypes.\r\nThus, according to this criterion a genotype with least rank sum will be the best genotype. The overall ranks of all the genotypes based on the above criteria are presented in Table 5. The genotypes UD-705, UD-529, UD-769, RCr-20 and RCr-475 occupied rank 1,2,3,4,5 respectively and identified as the most moisture stress tolerant genotypes. The genotypes UD-747, UD-461, UD-751, UD-23 and UD-169 were found most sensitive for moisture stress as they occupied. higher over all rank sum. Farshadfar et al. (2012) and Mohammed and Kadhem (2017) used overall rank sum methodology to screen the tolerant genotypes in wheat. \r\nE. AMMI and biplot analysis\r\nThe AMMI and biplot analysis was also performed to visualize G × E interactions and to minimize the noise from interaction to clearly examine the yield stability (Ajay et al., 2020) of genotypes. The ANOVA for \r\nAMMI (Table 4) analysis revealed that MSS due to genotypes were found highly significant for seed yield per plant indicating non-linear response of genotypes towards the two different conditions.\r\nThe bulk of the total variation that explained (Percent) was attributed for by the environments as 73.55 per cent, indicating the environments were diverse. The genotypes shared 23.84 per cent of total variation, while share of interaction was 2.60 per cent. It was also found from the AMMI analysis that PCA-1 captured almost all the share of the interaction sum of squares.\r\nThe AMMI biplot (Fig. 1) between PCA-1 and Main effects provides a visual expression of the relationships between the genotypes and interaction with the prevailing environmental condition. The stability or adaptability of the genotypes can be assessed by mean seed yield and PCA scores of genotypes in the AMMI analysis (Purchase, 1997; Martin and Alberts, 2004).\r\nThe mean, PCA-1, PCA-2 values of all genotypes are presented in Table 5. Higher PCA scores of a genotype (High responsive) indicated it’s the specific adaptability or stability to a certain environment, while lower PCA scores as approximate to zero (low responsive), indicates stability or adaptability over all the environments sampled. \r\n \r\nThe environment E1 located at the right side of the main axis indicating the superiority if the E1 environments or non-stress environment. Similarly, the genotypes 19 (UD-705), 25 (UD-769), 12 (UD-529), 29 (RCr-684), 27 (RCr-20), 7 (UD-488), 28 (RCr-436), 30 (RCr-475), 15 (UD-573) and 10 (UD-513) were found generally high yielding as they were placed on right-hand side of the mid-point representing grand mean. The genotypes 19 (UD-705) followed by 25 (UD-769) and 12 (UD-529) recorded best average seed yield of 5.35, 5.33 and 5.04 gram and attained relatively small values of PCA-1 (0.07, -0.26 and 0.15 respectively) indicating they were stable and widely adapted genotypes. Naroui et al. (2013) emphasized stability in addition to seed yield thus, genotypes UD-280, RCr-436, UD-472, UD-520, RCr-20 and UD-705 attained lowest PCA-1 values (0.01, 0.01,-0.04, -0.04, 0.05 and 0.07, respectively) and average seed yield (3.99, 4.49, 4.25, 4.16, 4.75 and 5.35 gram, respectively). The genotypes UD-461(3.76 g) and UD-751(3.86) yielded least seed and attained relatively small PCA-1 values (0.23 and 0.15, respectively) indicating their average adaptability. Similar findings of screening of genotypes using PCA values were also reported by Amir et al. (2018) in coriander, Fufa (2018) in cumin, Naik et al. (2022); Rao et al. (2022) in wheat.','Ravi Kumawat, Dhirendra Singh, Kana Ram Kumawat, Sarla Kumawat and Madhu Choudhary (2022). Evaluation of Moisture Stress Indices and Biplot Analysis in Coriander under Normal and Staggered Moisture Regimes. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 14(2): 683-689.'),(4928,'132','First camera-trap record of Rusty-spotted Cat Prionailurus rubiginosus (I. Geoffroy Saint‐ Hilaire, 1831) from Balaram-Ambaji wildlife sanctuary, Gujarat, India','Vasantkumar M. Rabari, Arzoo Malik, Nishith Dharaiya','3_JNBR_11_1_2022.pdf','',1,'The present study is a part of an ongoing study on sloth bear ecology in the North Gujarat region. A rusty-spotted cat is believed to be the smallest cat from the family Felidae native to India, Nepal, and Sri Lanka. During the camera trap survey of bear movement, a rusty-spotted cat was captured in the camera trap, which was deployed close to a water body at the Bedapani region of Balaram-Ambaji wildlife sanctuary, North Gujarat. Rusty-spotted cat has been reported from central Gujarat, south Gujarat, and Gir forests. This camera trap photograph is the first photographic report of the presence of a Rusty-spotted cat in the Balaram-Ambaji wildlife sanctuary adjoining to the Aravalis of Rajasthan state. This record is providing the presence of a very shy nocturnal cat in the study area which can be helpful for further studies on its distribution and range extension.','Camera trap, mammals, small cat, western Aravalis, North Gujarat.','The present observation was made during our long- term monitoring of sloth bear movements and habitat use in North Gujarat. The sanctuary covers an approximate area of 542.08 km2 and falls into the catchment zone of River Banas and Sabarmati with a great floral and faunal diversity where sloth bear is a flagship species. The forest type is dry deciduous and it mostly dries up during the hot summer with an annual rainfall of 600 to 750mm. A camera trap is a widely used tool for monitoring and conservation of wild animal species. Camera traps were diploid near water bodies on wooden stacks or trees to cover as possible as capturing area.','Aditya V, Ganesh T. 2016. Camera trap records of\r\nrusty-spotted cat Prionailurus rubiginosus and\r\nleopard cat Prionailurus bengalensis\r\n(Mammalia: Carnivora: Felidae) from\r\nPapikonda National Park, northern Eastern\r\nGhats, India. J Threat Taxa 8(5): 8818-8819.\r\nMukherjee S, Duckworth JW, Silva A, Appel A, Kittle\r\nA. 2016. Prionailurus rubiginosus. The IUCN\r\nRed List of Threatened Species:\r\ne.T18149A50662471.\r\nhttp://dx.doi.org/10.2305/IUCN.UK.2016-\r\n1.RLTS.T18149A50662471.en\r\n\r\nNayak S, Shah S, Borah J. (2017). First record of rusty-\r\nspotted cat Prionailurus rubiginosus\r\n\r\n(Mammalia: Carnivora: Felidae) from\r\n\r\nRamgarh-Vishdhari Wildlife Sanctuary in semi-\r\narid landscape of Rajasthan, India. J Threat\r\n\r\nTaxa 9(1): 9761-9763.\r\nSharma G, Kamalakannan M, Venkataraman K.\r\n(2014). A checklist of mammals of India with\r\n\r\ntheir distribution and conservation status. ZSI e-\r\npublications, Kolkata:123.\r\n\r\nSingh HS. (2001). Natural Heritage of Gujarat,\r\nPublished by Gujarat Ecological Education and\r\nResearch (GEER) Foundation, Gandhinagar:\r\n261pp.\r\n\r\nSingh H, Kariyappa A. (2020). Records of Rusty-\r\nSpotted Cat Prionailurus rubiginosus (I.\r\n\r\nGeoffroy Saint-Hilaire, 1831) (Mammalia:\r\nCarnivora: Felidae) in Mount Abu Wildlife\r\nSanctuary, Rajasthan, India. J Threat\r\nTaxa 12(16): 17258-17262.\r\nWilson DE, Reeder DM. (Eds.) (2005). Mammal\r\nspecies of the world: a taxonomic and\r\ngeographic reference Vol. 1. JHU Press.','First camera-trap record of Rusty-spotted Cat Prionailurus rubiginosus (I. Geoffroy Saint‐ Hilaire, 1831) from Balaram-Ambaji wildlife sanctuary, Gujarat, India'),(4929,'125','Comparison of Statistical Models for Prediction Area, Production and Yield of Citrus in Gujarat','Prity Kumari, D.J. Parmar, Sathish Kumar M., A.B. Mahera and Y.A. Lad ','117 Comparison of Statistical Models for Prediction Area, Production and Yield of Citrus in Gujarat Prity Kumari.pdf','',1,'Present study deals with comparison of different statistical models to predict area, production and yield of citrus in Gujarat state. Secondary data on area, production and productivity of citrus in Gujarat over the period 1991-92 to 2016-17 were collected form Directorate of Horticulture, Government of Gujarat. Autoregressive Moving Average Models (ARIMA) and Exponential smoothing models were used to analyse the data through R Studio (version 3.5.2) software. The study revealed that ARIMA model was superior to explain the area, production and yield of citrus with forecasted values 46.39 (‘000’ Ha.), 606.55 (‘000’ MT) & 12.01 (MT/Ha.) respectively. The government will be advised by the study to adopt an appropriate model to predict data and make policy accordingly.','Forecasting, area, production, productivity, citrus, exponential smoothing model, ARIMA','The present investigation was carried out to develop forecast and predict area, production and yield of citrus by Exponential smoothing (ES) and Autoregressive integrated moving average (ARIMA). The performance of these two models were compared and selected on the basis of best fit statistics measure. Out of these two, ARIMA model was best to explain the area, production and yield of citrus with forecasted values for 2017-18, 46.39 (‘000’ Ha.), 606.55 (‘000’ MT) & 12.01 (MT/Ha.) respectively.','INTRODUCTION\r\nFruits are significant for a healthy diet since they are rich in vitamins, minerals, and fibre. It improves farmers\' socioeconomic conditions and has also become a source of better income for many underprivileged groups.Citrus fruits are one of the healthiest fruits which are nutritional powerhouses. \r\nIt is mostly produced in Spain, Brazil, China, the United States, Mexico, and India. Citrus fruit’s export from India is a booming enterprise, owing to the country\'s favourable climate and soil conditions. The mandarin (Citrus reticulata), sweet orange (Citrus sinensis), and acid lime (Citrus aurantifolia) are the most important commercial citrus species in India, accounting for 41, 23 and 23 percent of all citrus fruits produced in the country respectively. After mango and banana, India\'s citrus business is the country\'s third largest fruit industry. India is the ninth largest orange producer in the world, accounting for 3% of worldwide orange production. Gujarat is holding third rank in terms of citrus production (National Horticulture Board, 2020-21). Many academics have been utilising statistical models to forecast area, production, and productivity of various crops in recent years.\r\n\r\nDhaikar and Rode (2014) used artificial neural network approach for predicting agricultural crop yield. Guo and Xue (2014) applied artificial neural network for forecasting crop yield and made comparison between spatial and temporal models. Hamjah (2014) used the Box- Jenkins ARIMA model to anticipate significant fruit crop production in Bangladesh. Time series analysis for pineapple production in Bangladesh was computed by Hossain and Abdulla (2015). Hossain et al. (2016) used various statistical methods to anticipate banana production in Bangladesh. Dasyam et al. (2016) applied statistical modelling to predict area, production and productivity of potato in West Bengal. Kumari et al. (2016) used various statistical models to forecast pigeon pea yield in the Vanaransi region. Kumari et al. (2017) looked at forecasting models for predicting pigeon pea pod damage in the Varanasi region. Using various statistical models, Rathod and Mishra (2018) estimated mango and banana yield in Karnataka. Aguilar et al. (2020) used artificial neural network model for predicting greenhouse tomato yield and aerial dry matter. In Gujarat, Kumar and Kumari (2021) predicted the area, production, and productivity of sapota. Computed a trend study of minor millet area, production, and productivity in India. Unjia et al. (2021) looked into the trend of maize area, production, and productivity in India. Yield forecasting is a way to support policy decisions for fruit crops in order to introduce confidence amongst the farming community for their socio-economic issues. Thus, modeling and forecasting the area, production and yield of citrus fruit crop over the years are of much practical importance. The present study was taken up in order to compare the performance of different statistical models i.e., Autoregressive Moving Average Models (ARIMA) and Exponential smoothing for predicting area, production and yield of citrus in Gujarat. Traditional forecasting methods in India continue to cause problems in predicting crop area, production, and productivity, as well as market price of agricultural commodities. This research has a broad scope in that it aims to develop adequate statistical models for predicting data on area, production, and productivity of various crops, with the proper model assisting in the execution of some forecasting policies.\r\nMETHODOLOGY\r\nTime series secondary data on area, production and yieldof Citrusin Gujaratwere collected from Directorate of Horticulture, Govt. of Gujarat from 1991-92 to 2016-17.\r\nAnalytical framework: In the present study, time series forecasting models i.e., Exponential smoothing (ES) andAutoregressive integrated moving average (ARIMA), were used to compare their ability for predicting future behavior of area, production and yield ofcitrus in Gujarat. Analysis was done by RStudio version 3.5.2 software. Time series models used in the present investigation were:\r\nExponential Smoothing (ES) model: Smoothing techniques are used to reduce irregularities (random fluctuations) in time series data. One of the most successful univariate time series forecasting technique is the exponential smoothing (ES) to produce a smoothed time series. In this technique, forecasts are weighted averages of past observations, with the weights decaying exponentially as the observations get older. In other words, recent observations are given relatively more weight in forecasting than the older observations. Exponential smoothing method is classified according to the type of component (trend and seasonality) presented in the time series data. In the present study, based on time series data, only two exponential smoothing methods are used i.e., simple exponential and double exponential smoothing technique.\r\nSimple Exponential Smoothing (SES): This method is suitable for forecasting data with no trend or seasonal pattern, although the mean of the data may be changing slowly over time. Forecasts are calculated by taking weighted averages of most recent observation and most recent forecast, where the weights decrease exponentially as observations come from further in the past.\r\nForecast equation y ̂t+1/t =〖 l〗_t\r\nLevel equation l_t=αy_t+(1-α)l_(t-1)\r\nSimple exponential smoothing has a flat forecast function, and therefore for longer forecast horizons,\r\ny ̂t+h/t =( y) ̂t+1/t = l_t\r\nHolt\'s linear trend(double) exponential smoothing method: Holt (1957) extended simple exponential smoothing to allow forecasting for those data which exhibit trend. This method involves a forecast equation and two smoothing equations (one for the level and one for the trend):\r\nForecast equation y ̂t+1/t=l_t+hb_t\r\nLevel equation l_t=αy_t+(1-α)(l_(t-1)+b_(t-1))\r\nTrend equation b_t=〖β(〖l_t-l〗_(t-1))〗_ +(1-β) b_(t-1)\r\nWhere\r\ny_t, y ̂t are observed and predicted value of series at time t \r\nl_(t )and〖 b〗_t are estimate of the level and trend (slope) of the series at time t\r\nα,β are the smoothing parameter for the level and trend, 0≤α,β ≤1\r\nInitialisation: The application of every exponential smoothing method requires the initialisation of the smoothing process. For simple exponential smoothing we need to specify an initial value for the level, l_0. Similarly double exponential smoothing involves initial value trend component〖 b〗_0 also. \r\nIn exponential smoothing, the method for obtaining the optimal values of smoothing parameters α and β is an iterative process which is chosen either by trial-and-error method or by some software like MINITAB, E Views, SPSS etc. which use an algorithm to select the value of the weights that minimizes mean square error for in-sample forecasts.\r\nAutoregressive Integrated Moving Average (ARIMA) model: ARIMA (Box and Jenkins 1970) models provide another approach to time series forecasting. Exponential smoothing and ARIMA models are the two most widely-used approaches to time series forecasting, and provide complementary approaches to the problem. While exponential smoothing models were based on a description of trend and seasonality in the data, ARIMA models aim to describe the autocorrelations in the data.\r\nARIMA is one of the most traditional methods of non-stationary time series analysis. Usually time series, showing trend or seasonal patterns are non-stationary in nature. In such cases, differencing and power transformations are often used to remove the trend and to make the series stationary.\r\nBox-Jenkins ARIMA, has been successfully applied in many time series forecasting and is a good tool to develop empirical model which is linear combination of its own past values, past errors (also called shocks or innovations).\r\nARIMA model allows Yt to be explained by its past, or lagged values and stochastic error terms. The non-seasonal ARIMA (p, d, q) model can be written as:\r\nIf then\r\n \r\nWhere\r\nP: order of the autoregressive part; d: degree of differencing involved; q: order of the moving average part.\r\n & t: Differenced data series and white noise\r\n & : Autoregressive and moving average coefficient\r\nThe main stages in setting up a Box-Jenkins forecasting model are model identification, estimating the parameters, diagnostic checking of residual and forecasting (Box and Jenkins 1970).\r\nRESULTS\r\nIn this study, area, production and yield (yield) of Citrus crop were analyzed by Exponential smoothing model and ARIMA model. The empirical findings of citrus crop are as follow:\r\nForecasting of area, production and yield for Citrus\r\nForecasting of area for citrus. Fig. 1 illustrate chart series of area dataset for citrus from1991-92 to 2016-17. Also, the characteristics (basic statistics) of the data set used were presented in the Table 1.\r\nExponential smoothing (ES) model: In case of fitting exponential smoothing model, the performance of \r\nETS(A, A,N) holt linear method was found to be the best out of all. The results were shown in Table 2. \r\nTable 2 shows that the estimate of alpha was found to be significant only. Also, residual autocorrelation was non-significant as per Box-Ljung test statistics probability value 0.24. The forecasted value of Citrus area in Gujarat for the year 2017-18 was obtained as 46.50(‘000’ Hectares) with confidence interval 43.05to 49.96.\r\nAutoregressive Integrated Moving Average (ARIMA) Model: In case of fitting ARIMA model, out of various ARIMA models with different value of p, d and q, the performance of ARIMA (1, 1, 0) with drift was found to be the best. The results were given in Table 3. \r\n \r\nTable 3 reveals that the estimates of all parameters were found to be statistically significant. Also, residual autocorrelation was non-significant as per Box-Ljung test statistics probability value 0.92. The forecasted value of citrus area in Gujarat for the year 2017-18 by ARIMA (1, 1, 0) with drift was obtained as 46.39 (‘000’ Hectares) with confidence interval 43.06to 49.72.\r\nForecasting of production for Citrus: Fig. 2 illustrate chart series of production dataset for citrus from 1991-92 to 2016-17. Also, the characteristics (basic statistics) of the data set used were presented in the Table 4.\r\nExponential smoothing (ES) model: In case of fitting exponential smoothing model, the performance of \r\nETS(A,A,N) holt exponential method was found to be the best out of all. The results were shown in Table 5.\r\nTable 5 shows that the estimate of alpha was found to be significant. Also, residual autocorrelation was non-significant as per Box-Ljung test statistics probability value 0.48. The forecasted value of Citrus production in Gujarat for the year 2017-18 was obtained as 606.37 (\'000\' MT) with confidence interval 531.98 to 680.76.\r\nAutoregressive Integrated Moving Average (ARIMA) Model:\r\nIn case of fitting ARIMA model, out of various ARIMA models with different value of p, d and q, the performance of ARIMA (0,1,0) with drift was found to be the best. The results were given in Table 6. \r\nTable 6 reveals that the estimate of alpha was found to be statistically significant. Also, residual autocorrelation was non-significant as per Box-Ljung test statistics probability value 0.42. The forecasted value of citrus production in Gujarat for the year 2017-18 by ARIMA (0, 1, 0) with drift was obtained \r\nas 606.55(\'000\' MT) with confidence interval 536.25 to 676.84.\r\nForecasting of yield for citrus: Fig. 3 illustrate chart series of yield dataset for citrus from 1991-92 to 2016-17. Also, the characteristics (basic statistics) of the data set used were presented in the Table 7.\r\nExponential smoothing (ES) model: In case of fitting exponential smoothing model, the performance of ETS(M,N,N) simple exponential smoothing method \r\nwas found to be the best out of all. The results were shown in Table 8. \r\nTable 8 shows that the estimate of alpha was found to be significant. Also, residual autocorrelation was non-significant as per Box-Ljung test statistics probability value 0.37. The forecasted value of citrus yield in Gujarat for the year 2017-18 was obtained as 13.04 (\'000\' MT) with confidence interval 8.00 to 18.09.\r\nAutoregressive Integrated Moving Average (ARIMA) Model: In case of fitting ARIMA model, out of various ARIMA models with different value of p, d and q, the performance of ARIMA (1, 0, 0) with constant was found to be the best. The results were given in Table 9. \r\nTable 9 reveals that the estimate of both parameters was found to be statistically significant. Also, residual autocorrelation was non-significant as per Box-Ljung test statistics probability value 0.31. The forecasted \r\nvalue of citrus yield in Gujarat for the year 2017-18 by ARIMA (1, 0, 0) with constant was obtained as 12.01(MT/Ha.) with confidence interval 6.49 to 17.52.\r\n \r\nTable 10 shows the performance of different models for predicting area, production and yield of citrus. Area, production and yield of citrus was best explained by ARIMA model with forecasted values 46.39 (‘000’ Ha.), 606.55 (‘000’ MT) & 12.01 (MT/Ha.) respectively.\r\n','Prity Kumari, D.J. Parmar, Sathish Kumar M., A.B. Mahera and Y.A. Lad (2022). Comparison of Statistical Models for Prediction Area, Production and Yield of Citrus in Gujarat. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 14(2): 690-695.'),(4930,'125','Record of parasitoid, Cowperia indica (Kerrich) (Encyrtidae) on \r\nCryptolaemus montrouzieri Mulsant associated with mealybugs from Karnataka\r\n','Kavya Yadav G.A.*, Jayalaxmi Narayan Hegde, Kalleshwaraswamy C.M. and Shivanna B.K.','118 Record of parasitoid, Cowperia indica Kavya Yadav G.A 2563.pdf','',1,'Surveys were conducted to collect coccinellid predators associated with the mealybug species in different districts of Karnataka. However, there is a great diversity of coccinellid parasitoid species that are less studied. During the survey it was noticed that a pupae of coccinellid predator, Cryptolaemus montrouzieri (Coleoptera) were found parasitized by a hymenopteran parasitoid, Cowperia indica belonging to the family Encyrtidae which were associated with mealybug species viz., Ferrsia virgata, Planococcus citri and Planococcus lilacinus.','Mealybug, coccinellid, encyrtidae, parasitoid, predator, pupae','Most reports of parasitoids present only a host record with little data about the impact on populations of entomophagous species. During the present study, we have reported parasitoid, C. indica parasitizing the pupae of coccinellid, C. montrouzieri. Hence, further studies on parasitization of coccinellids in different species needs to be taken up as they are potential predators of many insect pest species in different ecosystem. ','INTRODUCTION\r\nMealybugs are the major pests of crops in India due to elimination of natural biocontrol agents or due to indiscriminate application of pesticides. Coccinellids are the most studied groups of predators primarily focused on their role as natural enemies of soft-bodied insect pests (Riddick et al., 2009). Cryptolaemus montrouzieri is one of the most important coccinellid predators used for biocontrol of the mealybug pests since its larvae and adult life stages both feed on the prey (Poorani, 2002). Several pathogens and parasitoids were known to attack different coccinellid predators. A number of hymenopteran parasitoids act as larval or larval or pupal parasitoids of predatory coccinellids (Gautam, 1994; Kranti et al., 2008). Although knowledge of naturally occurring hymenopteran parasitoids associated with C. montrouzieri was limited. Therefore, present study has been taken to investigate parasitoids emerging from coccinellids associated with different mealybug species from various ecosystem.\r\nMATERIAL AND METHODS\r\nSurveys were conducted to collect coccinellid predators associated with mealybug species in different districts of Karnataka. Mealybugs infested plant parts along with predatory larval coccinellid, Cryptolaemus montrouzieri were collected and reared on different stages of mealybug until adulthood. During rearing, the emergence of parasitoids was noticed from the pupae of coccinellid predator, C. montrouzieri. The emerged parasitoids were collected and preserved in 70 % ethanol with proper labels for taxonomic identification from experts. The adults of the encyrtid parasitoid, Cowperia indica emerging from parasitized pupae of C. montrouzieri is shown in Plate 1.\r\nRESULTS AND DISCUSSION\r\nA parasitoid, Cowperia indica (Kerrich) (Encyrtidae) was found parasitizing the pupa of a coccinellid predator, Cryptolaemus montrouzieri (Coleoptera) predating on mealybugs viz., Ferrsia virgata, Planococcus citri and Planococcus lilacinus on different hosts viz., guava, neem and cocoa, respectively during the study period. Similarly, Kazmi and Kumar (2012) recorded C. indica emerging from pupae of C. montronzieri. Several species of the genus Homalotylus have also been recorded as parasitoids of coccinellid larvae in the subfamilies Coccinellinae, Chilocorinae and Scymninae (Ceryngier and Hodek, 1996). Parasitization of coccinellid predator, Cheilomenes sexmaculata by encyrtid parasitoid, Homalotylus sp. was reported by Megha et al. (2015). The parasitoid, C. indica may limit populations of C. montrouzieri which is a potential predator of mealybug pest in different ecosystem. Further studies need to be carried out to determine the ability of coccinellid predators to defend themselves against attack from various parasitoids.\r\n','Kavya Yadav G.A., Jayalaxmi Narayan Hegde, Kalleshwaraswamy C.M. and Shivanna B.K. (2022). Record of parasitoid, Cowperia indica (Kerrich) (Encyrtidae) on Cryptolaemus montrouzieri Mulsant associated with mealybugs from Karnataka. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 14(2): 696-697.'),(4931,'125','Efficacy of Fungicides and Bio-control Agents against Aspergillus flavus','N. Aiswarya*, S.L. Bhattiprolu, K. Bayyapu Reddy and G. Rama Rao','119 Efficacy of Fungicides and Bio-control Agents against Aspergillus flavus N. Aiswarya.pdf','',1,'Of the various biotic stresses in groundnut, Aspergillus spp infect both in the field and storage causing most of the post harvest losses. Pre harvest infection by A. flavus is the major cause of aflatoxin contamination in peanut. Efficacy of various fungicides and bio-control agents was evaluated against A. flavus infecting groundnut. Seeds of 13 groundnut varieties were artificially inoculated with A. flavus (106 conidia ml-1). Inoculated seed was treated with fungicides viz. mancozeb @ 3g/kg, carbendazim @ 2 g/kg, tebuconazole @ 1 g/kg, carboxin+thiram @ 2 g/kg; bio-control agents Trichoderma viride @ 10 g/kg and Pseudomonas fluorescens @ 10 g/kg and then incubated in rolled paper towels. Observations on various seed quality parameters including germination (%), seedling length (cm), seedling dry weight (g) and seedling vigour indices revealed that among the test fungicides and bio-control agents, tebuconazole recorded the highest germination and maximum per cent disease control where as carbendazim recorded highest seedling length, seedling vigour index I, seedling dry weight and seedling vigour index II.','Aspergillus flavus, fungicides, Groundnut, Pseudomonas fluorescens, Trichoderma viride, seed treatment','Seed treatment with tebuconazole or carbendazim efficiently controls the seed borne infection of A. flavus in groundnut. Tebuconazole recorded the highest germination and maximum per cent disease control where as carbendazim recorded the highest seedling length, seedling vigour index I, seedling dry weight and seedling vigour index II. Hence protection with tebuconazole @ 1g/kg seed or carbendazim @ 2g/kg seed is recommended.','INTRODUCTION\r\nGroundnut is cultivated in India as a rainfed crop and post-harvest losses in groundnut range from 10 to 25% of the production in Asia (Azeemoddin, 1993). Fungi such as Aspergillus niger, A. flavus, Alternaria dianthicola, Curvularia lunata, Fusarium oxysporum, Macrophomina phaseolina, Rhizopus stolonifer cause rotting, seed necrosis, loss in germination and toxification of oil seeds. Aspergillus is a common mold in tropical and sub tropical countries and causes aflatoxin contamination in groundnut and cereals (Chavan and Kakde, 2008). Seed germination decreased from 90% to 35 and 30% in groundnut, due to A. niger and A. flavus, respectively (Kakde and Chavan, 2010). A. flavus is the most important storage fungus that causes seed rot and leads to aflatoxin contamination in groundnut seeds. Seed treatment is cost effective against seed borne diseases resulting in healthy and vigorous plant stand and reduces subsequent bulk consumption of chemicals in the field as foliar sprays. Significant reduction of A. flavus populations and kernel infection was obtained in both greenhouse and field experiments (Waliyar et al., 2008). Therefore, efficacy of different fungicides and biocontrol agents on seedling quality characters was investigated.\r\n\r\nMATERIALS AND METHODS\r\nThe present investigation was carried out in the laboratory of Plant Pathology, Regional Agricultural Research Station, Lam and Department of Seed Science and Technology, Advanced Post Graduate Centre, Guntur, Andhra Pradesh during 2018-2019. Seeds of 13 groundnut cultivars viz., Abhaya, Amaravati, Chitravati, Dharani, Haritandhra, ICGV 00 350, Kadiri 6, Kadiri 9, Narayani TAG 24, TCGS 1073, TCGS 1616 and TCGS 1694 were surface sterilized, soaked in conidial suspension of A. flavus (106 conidia ml-1) for 20 min and dried at room temperature overnight. Seeds soaked in sterile distilled water served as control. The inoculated seed was treated with various fungicides and biocontrol agents viz., mancozeb @ 3g kg-1, carbendazim @ 2 g kg-1, tebuconazole @ 1 g kg-1, carboxin+thiram @ 2 g kg-1; bio-control agents Trichoderma viride @ 10 g kg-1 and Pseudomonas fluorescens @ 10 g kg-1. The treated and control (uninoculated) seeds were kept for germination using rolled paper towel method in four replications of hundred seeds and the following observations were recorded.\r\nGermination (%): On 10th day (final count), all the normal seedlings were counted. The germination percentage from each sample in each replication was computed as per the formula: \r\n \r\nGermination (%) = (Number of normal seedlings)/(Total number of seed sown) ×100\r\n \r\nSeedling Length (cm): Ten normal seedlings were taken from each sample at random on the 10th day and length was measured from the tip of the primary leaf to the tip of the primary root with a scale. \r\nSeedling Dry Weight (g): Ten normal seedlings collected as above were dried in a hot air oven at 75±1°C for 48 hours and mean seedling dry weight was recorded.\r\nSeedling Vigour Index: Seedling vigour index I was computed using the formula of Abdul- Baki and Anderson (1973). \r\nSeedling vigour index I = Germination (%) × Mean seedling length (cm) \r\nSeedling vigour index II was computed as per the formula of Reddy and Khan (2001):\r\nSeedling vigour index II = Germination (%) × Seedling dry weight (g)\r\nThe data recorded were analyzed statistically by adopting Completely Randomized Design (CRD) as described by Panse and Sukhatma (1985).\r\nRESULTS AND DISCUSSION\r\nSignificant increase in germination (%), seedling length, seedling vigour indices, seedling dry weight and reduced infection (%) due to seed treatment over the inoculated control was observed irrespective of the genotype.\r\nThe germination in uninoculated control (91.31%) decreased to 70.65% due to inoculation with A. flavus (Table 1, Fig. 1). Tebuconazole @ 1 g kg-1 seed recorded the highest germination (91.00%) followed by carbendazim @ 2 g/kg seed (90.35%), carboxin+thiram @ 2 g kg-1 seed (89.63%) and mancozeb @ 3 g kg-1 seed (88.92%). The average seedling length in A. flavus inoculated treatment was 16.04 cm as against 20.81 cm in uninoculated control (Table 2, Fig. 2). Carbendazim @ 2 g kg-1 seed recorded the highest seedling length (18.93 cm) followed by carboxin+thiram @ 2 g kg-1 seed (18.55 cm) and mancozeb @ 3 g/kg seed (18.00 cm). T. viride @ 10 g/kg seed (17.07 cm) and P. fluorescens @ 10 g kg-1 seed (16.89 cm) were superior to inoculated control (16.04 cm). Tebuconazole @ 1 g kg-1 seed recorded the lowest seedling length of 14.25 cm i.e., less than inoculated control (16.05). \r\nThe seedling vigour index I of 1907 in uninoculated control was reduced to 1145 due to inoculation with A. flavus (Table 3, Fig. 3). Carbendazim @ 2 g kg-1 seed recorded the highest seedling vigour index (1716) followed by carboxin+thiram @ 2 g kg-1 seed (1669) and mancozeb @ 3 g/kg seed (1607). Seed treatment with tebuconazole @ 1 g kg-1 seed recorded the lowest (1300). The seedling dry weight of 0.24 g in uninoculated control was reduced to 0.19 g due to A. flavus (Table 4, Fig. 2). Carbendazim @ 2 g kg-1 seed recorded the highest seedling dry weight (0.23 g) followed by carboxin+thiram @ 2 g kg-1 seed (0.22 g) and mancozeb @ 3 g kg-1 seed (0.22 g) whereas tebuconazole @ 1 g kg-1 seed recorded the lowest (0.19 g). The seedling vigour index II of uninoculated control was 21.55 whereas A. flavus inoculated seed recorded 13.45 (Table 5, Fig. 3). Carbendazim @ 2 g kg-1 seed recorded the highest seedling vigour index II (20.60) followed by carboxin+thiram @ 2 g kg-1 seed (19.83) and mancozeb @ 3 g kg-1 seed (19.22) and tebuconazole @ 1 g kg-1 seed recorded the lowest (16.98). \r\nAdithya et al. (2017) obtained higher germination of A. flavus inoculated seed with Trichoderma spp and P. fluorescens followed by carbendazim and mancozeb. Increase in seedling length vigour index I and dry weight of inoculated seeds of groundnut due to seed treatment with carbendazim, mancozeb and carboxin+thiram was observed earlier (Adithya et al., 2017) and Ahmad and Zaidi (2018). The growth retarding effect of triazoles is attributed to the inhibition of gibberillic acid biosynthesis that helps in shoot elongation.\r\nThe per cent infection of 8.69 in uninoculated control increased to 41.23 due to inoculation with A. flavus (Table 6, Fig. 4). Tebuconazole @ 1 g kg-1 seed recorded the lowest infection (3.88%) followed by carbendazim @ 2 g/kg seed (6.54%), carboxin+thiram @ 2 g kg-1 seed (6.96%) and mancozeb @ 3 g kg-1 seed (7.46%). Reduction in per cent infection with carbendazim, tebuconazole, carboxin+thiram was observed by Islam et al. (2015) and Kumari et al. (2016). Seed treatment with propiconazole and carbendazim (Rohtas et al., 2016) and carbendazim (Dolas et al., 2018) also recorded decrease in per cent disease incidence.\r\n','N. Aiswarya, S.L. Bhattiprolu, K. Bayyapu Reddy and G. Rama Rao (2022). Efficacy of Fungicides and Bio-control Agents Against Aspergillus flavus. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 14(2): 698-703.'),(4932,'125','Management of Collor Rot of Chickpea caused by sclerotium rolfsii through oil Seed Cakes in vitro','Rakesh Gurjar*, A.R. Wasnekar, Mahesh Kumar Mimrot, Yashowardhan Singh, Pushkar Dev\r\n and Jitendra Gurjar','120 Management of Collor Rot of Chickpea caused by sclerotium rolfsii through oil Seed Cakes in vitro Rakesh Gurjar.pdf','',1,'Chickpea is the world’s second most important food legumes next to common bean. Chickpea is a vital source of plant derived edible protein in many countries. It originated in South West Asia and is now grown in over 50 nations. Chickpeas are cultivated on 95.39 lakh hectares in India, with a yield of 90.75 tonnes and a productivity of 951 kg per hectare. Whereas, the total area and production of chickpea in MP is 35.90 lakh hectare and 45.95 lakh tonnes, respectively, having productivity of 1056 kg/ha (Annual Report DPD, 2017-18). Collar rot is a serious soil-borne disease which has directly afflicted chickpea production. Chickpea collar rot is the most serious and difficult disease to control, resulting in substantial yield losses of 60-70 percent under favourable conditions (Nene, 1985). An in vitro study was conducted to evaluate the efficiency of oil cake against S. rolfsii. Required oil cake Neem seed cake, Groundnut cake, Castor cake, Castor cake, Soybean cake, Cotton cake, Mustard cake, Vermicompost and Farm yard manure through the Poisoned Food Technique, respectively. The Neem seed cake extract at 10 and 20 per cent concentration can be effectively inhibiting the growth of Sclerotium rolfsii under in vitro condition. Chickpea is one of important pulse crop which is infected with collar rot oil seed cakes can be used in IDM practice for management of this disease.','Sclerotium rolfsii, oil cake, Management, collor rot, Vermicompost','Collar rot disease caused by Sclerotium rolfsii, is a serious threat to chickpea and its control has acquired very limited success. Present investigation was carried out with a view to ascertain the cultural factors responsible for the growth of the Sclerotium rolfsii and management option to minimize the disease. Oil seed cakes like Neem seed cake extract, Groundnut cake extract and Cotton cake have proved to be highly effective in inhabiting the growth of pathogen in vitro at 72 and 120 hrs.','INTRODUCTION\r\nChickpea (Cicer arietinum L) is an important legume crop that ranks second in global agriculture. It belongs to the family Fabaceae, sub family Papilionaceae. Chickpea is a high-protein crop that also improves soil fertility via biological nitrogen fixation. It is produced on 95.39 lakh hectares in India, with an annual production of 90.75 lakh tonnes and a yield of 951 kg per hectare. S. rolfsii is soil borne pathogen and survives in soil for many years (Allce, 1984). The disease causes damage on root and stem of plant. The pathogen produces sclerotia which overwinter in soil and on plant debris and can survive in a long period causing disease in the following season (Punja, 1985). Various methods for controlling such disease have been investigated including the use of mustard cake, caster cake, neem cake, cotton cake, linseed cake, farm yard manure and soybean cake against the S. rolfsii, causing collar rot of chickpea, stem rot and collar rot of groundnut (Dawar, 2010; Kuldhar and Suryawanshi, 2017; Aravind and Brahmbhatt, 2018; Latha and Rajeswari, 2019). In Madhya Pradesh, however, only limited work has been done in the treatment of chickpea collar rot (Sclerotium rolfsii) using organic amendments. The focus of this research is to find the most efficient organic amendments for treating the chickpea collar rot disease.\r\nMETHOD AND MATERIAL\r\nA study was conducted to check the efficacy of oil cake against S. rolfsii under in vitro conditions. The pathogen was isolated from infected gram seedlings by hyphal tip method of fungal isolation. Identification of Sclerotium rolfsii were done by morphological characters formed white mat of hyaline mycelium with formation of initially white sclerotia which later turned into brown hard structure. Sclerotia were black, varied from spherical to irregular in shape and measured 80 to 85 µm in diameter. Pycnidial production was not observed in culture plates. Required oil cake Neem seed cake, Groundnut cake, Castor cake, Castor cake, Soybean cake, Cotton cake, Mustard cake, Vermicompost and Farm yard manure (through the Poisoned Food Technique), respectively were obtained from Microbes Research and Production Canter, JNKVV Jabalpur (M.P.). The experiment was conducted during 2019-20, with eight treatments and one untreated control. All the six tested oil cake extracts, Vermicompost and Farm yard manure significantly inhibited the growth of S. rolfsii under in-vitro conditions. However, inhibition in growth of S. rolfsii varied from treatment to treatment. The observation on collar rot of chickpea was recorded at 72 hours and 120 hours by the using of Poison food technique.\r\nThirty gram well ground powder of each cake was suspended in 150 ml sterile distilled water in flask and left for 25 days. The flasks were shaken for thorough mixing and dissolution of the content. After 25 days the flaks were thoroughly shaken and content were filtered through double layered muslin cloth and autoclaved for 20 minutes. The autoclaved extracts were individually added in previously sterilized melted and cooled potato dextrose agar medium as per required concentration at the time of pouring in Petri plates and mixed thoroughly. All the plates were incubated at 28±1˚C after placing the five mm disc of actively growing seven days old pure culture of Sclerotium rolfsii. Each treatment was replicated three times with control.\r\nThe Petri plates with pathogen inoculated at one end alone, served as control. The Petri plates were then incubated at 28±2˚C. Three replications were maintained in each treatment. Per cent growth inhibition of mycelia growth over control was calculated by using the formula given by Vincent (1947):\r\nI= (C-T)/C×100\r\nWere,\r\nI = Per cent inhibition in growth of test pathogen\r\nC = Radial growth (mm) in control\r\nT = Radial growth (mm) in treatment.\r\nRESULT AND DISCUSSION\r\nA set of eight oil cake extract including Neem seed cake, Groundnut cake, Castor cake, Soybean cake, Cotton cake, Mustard cake, Vermicompost and Farm yard manure were used to evaluate their efficacy in inhibiting S. rolfsii at 10 and 20 per cent concentration under in-vitro condition using poison food technique. The maximum per cent growth inhibition (68.18) in growth of S. rolfsii was recorded in Neem seed cake extract followed by Groundnut cake extract where 62.16 per cent inhibition was recorded after 72 hours of incubation period at 10 per cent concentration. However, at 20 per cent concentration, maximum inhibition of 77.77 per cent in growth of S. rolfsii was recorded by Neem seed cake extract after 72 hours of incubation. However, minimum inhibition of per cent was recorded in 20 per cent Farm yard manure extract. \r\nAfter 120 hours of incubation, Maximum inhibition of 61.85 per cent in growth of S. rolfsii was recorded by 20 per cent Neem seed cake extract. However, minimum inhibition of 15.33 per cent was recorded in 20 per cent Farm yard manure extract. In this way, out of eight oil cake extracts tested, two oil cake extract namely Groundnut cake and Neem seed cake showed more than 50 per cent inhibition in growth of S. rolfsii at 20 per cent concentration after 120 hours of incubation period. \r\nSimilarly result reported by Dhingani et al. (2013) in which out of several organic extracts tested neem cake had the maximum mycelial growth inhibition (59.40%) followed by farm yard manure, castor cake and mustard cake. Also, Dubey et al. (2009) reported that autoclaved neem extracts had growth inhibition of 19.7, 30.6 and 42.3 per cent at one, five and ten percentage, respectively.','Rakesh Gurjar, A.R. Wasnekar, Mahesh Kumar Mimrot, Yashowardhan Singh, Pushkar Dev and Jitendra Gurjar (2022). Management of Collor Rot of Chickpea caused by sclerotium rolfsii through oil Seed Cakes in vitro. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 14(2): 704-707.'),(4933,'125','Morpho-physiological Characterization of Maize (Zea mays L.) Genotypes against Drought','Pramod Kumar Yadav, A.K. Singh, M.K. Tripathi, Sushma Tiwari* and Jaya Rathore','121 Morpho-physiological Characterization of Maize _Zea mays L._ Genotypes against Drought Pramod Kumar Yadav.pdf','',4,'Maize is an imperative grain crop used as a staple food in several countries around the world. Water deficiency is a serious problem limiting its growing area, production and productivity. Maize is moderately sensitive to drought distressing all aspects of growth and development starting from germination to maturity. Drought stress, particularly at flowering stage, has been recognized as the most crucial factor limiting production and productivity in India. Enlightening drought tolerance in maize has become one of the top urgencies in maize breeding programmes. In present investigation, 80 genotypes of maize including 66 hybrids, 12 parents and 2 checks (drought tolerant HKI1105 and drought susceptible HKI1128) were grown under irrigated and partial irrigated condition in a randomized block design (RBD) with two replications. The observations were recorded for turgid weight (TW), Relative water content (RWC), Saturation water deficit (SWD), Membrane stability index (MSI) and grain yield. Under irrigated condition grain yield per plant ranged from 42.11 to 113.73g with a mean value of 71.06. While under partial irrigated condition grain yield per plant ranged between 40.33 to 105.17g with an average worth of 68.08g.Under both conditions, correlation studies of grain yield per plant showed significant and positive correlation with relative water contents (RWC) while negative correlation was observed with turgid weight (TW), saturation water deficit (SWD) and membrane stability index (MSI). Among all 80-maize genotypes, ten maize genotypes viz., IL11 × IL12, IL1 × IL7, IL7 × IL8, IL3 × IL10, IL6 × IL7, IL7 × IL12, IL2 × IL7, IL6 × IL12, IL4 × IL6 and IL3 × IL11 displayed increased values in respect to all morpho-physiological parameters i.e., turgid weight (TW), relative water content (RWC), saturation water deficit (SWD) and membrane stability index (MSI) including grain yield under drought condition. Moreover, Correlation analysis along with other indices was proved to be a useful approach for rapid and cost-efficient screening of large numbers of genotypes against drought stress condition.','Maize, drought, RWC, SWD, MSI, TW and grain yield','Based on mean data, under both irrigated and partial irrigated conditions ten genotypes namely:IL11 × IL12, IL1 × IL7, IL7 × IL8, IL3 × IL10, IL6 × IL7, IL7 × IL12, IL2 × IL7, IL6 × IL12, IL4 × IL6 and IL3 × IL11 displayed better response in respect to all studied morpho-physiological parameters along with grain yield. These genotypes may serve as valuable starting materials or parents to develop drought tolerant cultivars with having higher yield potential. Under both conditions, correlation studies of grain yield per plant shows significant positive correlation with relative water contents while negative correlation was observed with turgid weight, saturation water deficit, and membrane stability index.','INTRODUCTION \r\nZea mays L. is a staple food possessing the highest yield potential among the cereals and it is known as queen of cereals. It plays an important role in livelihood of millions of poor farmers. Since it is a short-day plant with C4 type of photosynthesis; the crop has very efficient utilization of solar radiation. However, it is very sensitive to excess or deficit soil moisture. Most of the world maize area is grown under rainfed conditions and it is more susceptible to drought than other cereals (Hall et al., 1981). At a cellular level, drought signals promote stomatal closure to save water, stimulate the production of stress-protectant metabolites, upregulate the antioxidant system, and deploy peroxidase enzymes to prevent acute cellular damage and loss of membrane integrity (Gupta et al., 2020; Liu et al. 2021; Choudhary et al., 2021a; Choudhary et al., 2021b; Choudhary et al., 2021c; Mishra et al., 2021 a; Mishra et al., 2021 b; Mishra et al., 2021 c; Sharma et al., 2021). Crop yield is vulnerable when drought conditions occur during the reproductive phase of plant growth. Although grain yield (GY) when plants subjected to water stress is the final target trait employed to assess the degree of drought tolerance, correlated traits, such as ASI and kernel number per row (KNR), are considered to have a higher heritability and thus may be more suitable as target traits for improving maize drought resistance (Monneveux et al., 2008; Jia et al., 2020; Liu et al., 2021). About 67% of the total maize production in the developing countries emanates from low and lower middle-incomenations. Moisture stress is one of the major constraints in maize productivity and it is very common in the areas, where, maize is predominantly grown under rainfed condition. Drought at any stage of crop improvement affects production, but maximum damage is inflicted when it occurs during flowering stage. Effect of drought stress includes delayed silking and female sterility caused by embryo abortion (Moss and Downey, 1971, Aslam et al., 2013; Bibhu et al., 2020) resulting huge reduction in grain yield. It was estimated that annual yield loss due to drought may be close to 24 million tones and it is equivalent to 17 % of a normal year’s production in a developing world. \r\nDue to increased demand of maize, there should be an intensive effort should be made to increase maize production in the changing climatic conditions, particularly related to water stress, salinity, extreme temperature regimes etc. Selection for best performing genotypes under stress condition is the primary objective for any crop improvement programme (Thiry et al., 2016; Wattoo et al., 2018; Makwana et al., 2021; Mishra et al., 2021d; Mishra et al., 2021e; Mishra et al., 2021f). Assessment of germplasm line (s) against abiotic stresses like heat and drought under natural field conditions is tough owing to uncertain environmental conditions like rainfall and humidity (Zafar et al., 2017; Wattoo et al., 2018; Choudhary et al., 2021a; Choudhary et al., 2021b). The task turns into more challenging when dealing with huge number of germplasm lines owing to necessity of large area, labor, resources and long time period. On the other hand, its rapid evaluation can be done at early growth stages under controlled environmental conditions based on many growth and physiological parameters (Zafar et al., 2017; Wattoo et al., 2018). An array of morphological, physiological and biological features of higher plants show adaptability in response to water stress. Existence of variability for drought tolerance in different plant species has been reported (Frova et al., 1999; Guttieri et al., 2004; Wattoo et al., 2018). Numerous growth related morpho-physiological traits have been potentially employed for evaluating genotypes of different crops against water stress (Taiz and Zeiger, 2006; Ali et al., 2009; Chohan et al., 2012; Javed, 2012; Wattoo et al., 2018; Rajpoot et al., 2020; Choudhary et al., 2021a; Choudhary et al., 2021b; Mishra et al., 2021a; Mishra et al., 2021b).\r\nPresent study was conducted with the objectives to screen genotype (s) on the basis of various morpho-physiological parameters related to drought tolerance which can perform well under limited water conditions.\r\nMATERIALS AND METHODS\r\nA. Plant material and growth conditions \r\nThe seeds of 12 maize inbred lines were acquired from Sam Higgonbottom Agriculture Science and Technology University, Prayagraj, U.P., India. A crossing programme initiated with 12 maize inbred lines following half diallel analysis (Jinks and Hayman, 1954) to raise 66 F1hybrids. These 66 hybrids along with two checks (drought tolerant HKI1105 and drought susceptible HKI1128) and parents total 80 entries were included in this study (Table 1) and were evaluated at Research Farm, Department of Genetics &Plant Breeding, College of Agriculture, Gwalior, M.P. during Rabi season, 2019-20. The experiment was conducted under irrigated and partial irrigated condition and laid out in a randomized block design (RBD) with two replications. Each genotype was sown in 2 rows of 4 meters with a spacing of 60 cm between rows and 20 cm between plant to plant.\r\nDrought stress was imposed from 10 days before flowering by with-holding irrigation. The irrigation was resumed when soil moisture reaches temporary wilting point. The characters like Turgid weight (TW), Relative water content (RWC), Saturation water deficit (SWD) and Membrane Stability Index (MSI) were calculated for samples collected from a single competitive plant per replication per genotypes and grain yield/ plant (GY/P) was calculated on plot basis(g). Relative water content (RWC) is considered one of the important physiological parameters to assess the water content in plants during stressed and control condition and calculated by the formula: RWC = (FW — DW/ TW—DW) × 100 where, Fresh weight of plant (g), DW = Dry weight of plant (g), TW = Turgid weight of plant (g). Turgid weight (TW) was determined after floating of plants on water overnight at room temperature. Saturation water deficit (SWD) (%) was calculated after subtracting the value of RWC from 100. Membrane stability index (MSI) was estimated taking two sets of 200 mgs of leaf sample in test tube containing 10 ml of double distilled water. One set was heated at 40°C for 30 min in a water bath to record the electrical conductivity (C1) of the solution by an electrical conductivity meter. Second set was subjected to 100°C on a boiling water bath for 15 min to measure its conductivity (C2) as explained above. Membrane Stability Index was calculated by formulae MSI = [1 — {C1/C2}] × 100 as proposed by Razzaq et al. (2013). Where, Cl = electrical conductivity of water containing the leaf sample in set one and C2 = electrical conductivity of water containing the leaf sample in set two. The cobs from randomly selected five plants were dried, shelled, cleaned and weight of grains was recorded and expressed as grams and considered as grain yield per plant (g).\r\nRESULT AND DISCUSSION\r\nDrought stress encourages an assortment of morpho-physiological changes in plants in order that plants are capable to broaden tolerance mechanisms. Drought tolerance is the result of abundant morphological, anatomical and physiological parameters which interrelate with continuation of growth and developmental progressions. Relative aptitude for drought tolerance of maize genotypes may be arbitrated by guesstimating numerous morpho-physiological traits for instance fresh weight, dry weight, turgid weight, relative water content, saturation water deficit and membrane stability index. Water saturation deficit, relative water content (RWC) and leaf water loss are the main physiological measures that maneuver plant water relations and used to evaluate drought tolerance in plants (Kachre, 2017;Kachre et al., 2019; Mishra et al., 2021a).\r\nA. Morpho-physiological characterization of genotypes under irrigated and partial irrigated conditions\r\nAmong all 80 maize genotypes under irrigated condition grain yield per plant ranged between 42.11g to 113.73 g with a mean value of 71.06g. Ten genotypes viz., IL1 × IL7, IL11 × IL12, IL3 × IL10, IL6 × IL7, IL7 × IL8, IL7 × IL12, IL4 × IL6, IL2 × IL7, IL6 × IL12 and IL3 × IL11 showed better response in respect to morpho-physiological traits along with grain yield (Table 2). Turgid weight ranged from 0.16 to 0.26 with an average worth of 0.21. Relative water content varied between 48.82% to 89.44% with a mean value of 72.88. While saturation water deficit arrayed between 10.57 to 51.19 with a mean worth of 27.12. Whereas, membrane stability index fluctuated between 1.78 to 58.91 with a mean value of 25.78. \r\nUnder partial irrigated condition grain yield per plant arrayed between 40.33g to 105.17g with a mean worth of 68.08g.Ten genotypes viz., IL11 × IL12, IL1 × IL7, IL7 × IL8, IL3 × IL10, IL6 × IL7, IL7 × IL12, IL2 × IL7, IL6 × IL12, IL4 × IL6 and IL3 × IL11 displayed better response in respect to different morpho-physiological parameters along with grain yield (Table 2), Turgid weight ranged from 0.16 to 0.26 with an average worth of 0.21. Relative water content varied between 48.36% to 90.17% with a mean value of 72.33%, while saturation water deficit arrayed between 9.83 to 51.65 with an average value of 27.67 and membrane stability index varied between 1.34 to 78.56 with a mean worth of 31.57.\r\nBased on these findings, it is clear that the drought tolerant genotypes giving more yield under drought condition. Similar results were also reported by Homayoun (2011); Kachre et al. (2019); Mishra et al. (2021 a). Among all 80-maize genotypes under irrigated and partial irrigated conditions, ten genotypes viz., IL11 × IL12, IL1 × IL7, IL7 × IL8, IL3 × IL10, IL6 × IL7, IL7 × IL12, IL2 × IL7, IL6 × IL12, IL4 × IL6 and IL3 × IL11 exhibited better response in terms of all morpho-physiological parameters along with grain yield.\r\nThe inter se correlations of grain yield per plant (GY/P) with an individual morpho-physiological trait e.g., turgid weight, relative water content, saturation water deficit and membrane stability index have been presented in (Table 4 and 6). Saturation water deficit revealed significant and positive association with grain yield indicating favorable response towards yield. But turgid weight, relative water content and membrane stability index exhibited significant and negative correlation with grain yield. Similar results were alsoaddressed by Good et al. (1993); Magorokosho et al. (2003); Kachre et al. (2019); Mishra et al. (2021a); Sharma et al. (2021).\r\nB. Correlation Coefficient (Under Irrigated Condition)\r\nAt the phenotypic level. The details of the phenotypic correlation coefficients between grain yield and its attributing characters are presented in the Table 3. Turgid weight displayed significant and positive correlation with SDW (0.0835) while significant and negative correlation with RWC (-0.0835) tracked by MSI (-0.1504) and GY/P (g) (-0.0724). Relative water content showed significant and positive correlation with GY/P (g) (0.0138) while significant and negative correlation with SWD (-1.0002) pursued by MSI (-0.0119). Saturation water deficit exhibited significant and positive correlation with MSI (0.0119) whereas significant and negative correlation with GY/P (g) (-0.0138). MSI displayed significant and negative correlation with GY/P (g) (-0.1638). Whilst grain yield per gram showed significant and positive correlation with RWC (0.0138). Whereas it displayed negative correlation with TW (-0.0724), SDW (-0.0138) and MSI (-0.1638).\r\nAt the genotypic level. Correlation coefficients between grain yield and its accrediting parameters have been described in the Table 3. Turgid weight showed significant and positive correlation with SDW (0.0823) while significant and negative correlation with RWC (-0.0823) tracked by MSI (-0.1503) and GY/P (g) (-0.0727). Relative water content revealed significant and positive correlation with GY/P (g) (0.0142) whereas significant and negative correlation with SWD (-1.0002) trailed by MSI (-0.0122). Saturation water deficit exhibited significant and positive correlation with MSI (0.0122) whilst significant and negative correlation with GY/P (g) (-0.0142). Membrane stability indexshowed significant and negative correlation with GY/P (g) (-0.1641). GY/P (g) showed significant and positive correlation with RWC (0.0142). Whereas it had negative correlation with TW (-0.0727), SDW (-0.0142) and MSI (-0.1641).\r\nC. Phenotypic path coefficient analysis\r\nPhenotypic path coefficient analysis revealed higher R2 (0.0365) value and residual effect (0.9816) indicating exploitation of phenotypic variation in response to irrigated condition. The phenotypic direct and indirect effects of various traits on yield per plant are presented in Table 4.\r\nPhenotypic path coefficient analysis revealed that RWC (0.0034) had the highest positive and direct effect on SY/P (g) followed by SWD (0.0002). However, maximum negative and direct effect on seed yield per plant was documented through MSI (-0.1787) and TW (-0.0989). The indirect effects of turgid weight showed a positive and indirect effect on grain yield per plant via RWC (0.0083), tracked by MSI (0.0149) and negative and indirect effect on yield per plant via SWD (-0.0083). Relative water content displayed a positive and indirect effect on seed yield per plant via MSI (0.0003), negative and indirect effect on yield per plant via SWD (-0.0034) pursued by TW (-0.0003). Saturation water deficit displayed positive and indirect effect on seed yield per plant via RWC(0.0004) trailed by TW (0.0001) and MSI (0.0001). Membrane stability index demonstrated positive and indirect effect on seed yield per plant via TW (0.0269) tracked by RWC (0.0021) and it showed negative and indirect effect on seed yield per plant via SWD (-0.0021).\r\nD. Correlation Coefficient (Under Partial Irrigated Condition)\r\nAt the phenotypic level. The details of the phenotypic correlation coefficients between grain yield and its attributing characters are presented in the Table 5. Turgid weight displayed significant and positive correlation with SDW (0.0701) while significant and negative correlation with RWC (-0.0701) tracked by MSI (-0.0109) and GY/P (g) (-0.069). Relative water content displayed significant and positive correlation with MSI (0.1319) followed by GY/P (g) (0.0232) whilst significant and negative correlation with SWD (-1.0002). Saturation water deficit showed significant and negative correlation with MSI (-0.1319) tracked by GY/P (g) (-0.0232). Membrane stability index exhibited significant and negative correlation with GY/P (g) (-0.0871). However, Grain yield per plant in gram displayed significant and positive correlation with RWC (0.0232), whereas it exhibited negative correlation with TW (-0.069), SDW (-0.0232) and MSI (-0.0871).\r\nAt the genotypic level. Correlation coefficients between grain yield and its ascribing characters has been designated in the Table 5. Turgid weight exhibited significant and positive correlation with SDW (0.0689) while significant and negative correlation with RWC (-0.0689) followed by MSI (-0.011) and GY/P (g) (-0.0694). Relative water content displayed significant and positive correlation with MSI (0.1323) tracked by GY/P (g) (0.0237) whilst significant and negative correlation with SWD (-1.0002). Saturation water deficit showed significant and negative correlation with MSI (-0.1323) perused by GY/P (g) (-0.0237). Membrane stability index displayed significant and negative correlation with GY/P (g) (-0.0873). Whilst grain yield per plant in gram showed significant and positive correlation with RWC (0.0237). Whereas it exhibited negative correlation with TW (-0.094), SDW (-0.0237) and MSI (-0.0873).\r\nPhenotypic path coefficient analysis. Phenotypic path coefficient analysis discovered higher R2 (0.0134) value and residual effect (0.9933) demon starting exploitation of phenotypic variation in response to under partial irrigated condition. The phenotypic direct and indirect effects of diverse parameters on yield per plant are presented in Table 6. Phenotypic path coefficient analysis exposed that RWC (0.0306) had the highest positive and direct effect on SY/P (g) followed by SWD (0.0001). However, maximum negative and direct effect on seed yield per plant was documented through MSI (-0.0919) and TW (-0.0678). The indirect effects of turgid weight exhibited a positive and indirect effect on grain yield per plant via RWC (0.0048), tracked by MSI (0.0007) and negative and indirect effect on yield per plant via SWD (-0.0048). Relative water content displayed a positive and indirect effect on seed yield per plant via MSI (0.004) and negative and indirect effect on yield per plant via SWD (-0.0306) trailed by TW (-0.0021). Saturation water deficit showed positive and indirect effect on seed yield per plant via RWC (0.0002) tracked by TW (0.0003) and MSI (0.0002). Membrane stability index exhibited positive and indirect effect on seed yield per plant via SWD (0.0121) tracked by TW (0.001) and it showed negative and indirect effect on seed yield per plant via RWC (-0.0121). \r\nIt was evidenced that water scarcity unpleasantly disturbs plant growth and designate more fluctuations in dry weight of maize. As the stomata close in response to low water supply, there is low CO2 fixation. Apart from reducing cell division and enlargement, water stress is testified to be restrictive to almost all aspects of cellular metabolism. The result in decrease in dry matter production and yield is apparent in present investigation which is harmony to research of Kachare (2017). Sharifa et al. (2015) and Mishra et al. (2021a) also recognized decreased fresh weights with drought stress in soybean genotypes. In many other studies, osmotic stress also instigated a significant decrease in fresh weight of soybean genotypes (Hamayun et al. 2010; Sepanlo et al., 2014; Kachare et al., 2019; Mishra et al., 2021b). \r\nRWC is considered as a protruding physiological trait to envisage tolerance against drought stress. Drought stress causes water loss within the plant and results in relative water content (RWC) reduction. This parameter is one of the most persistent and broadly employed indicator for defining both the sensitivity and the tolerance to water deficit in plants (Rampino et al., 2012). Computation of RWC enables in the approximation of the metabolic action in leaf tissues which is then considered as an integrated measure of plant water standing. In the present investigation, RWC steadily diminished with susceptible genotypes in comparison to tolerant genotypes. The reducing tendency of relative water content for all the genotypes may be accredited towards the reduction in external water potential (Datta et al., 2011). All the genotypes displayed significant variations in RWC which advised that diverse cultivars have different threshold levels to retain the water status (Datta et al., 2011). In the current investigation, RWC was higher in those genotypes may be drought tolerant as anticipated by Hossain et al. (2014); Sepanlo et al. (2014); Kachare (2017); Mishra et al. (2021b). \r\nIn this research, all the susceptible genotypes displayed significant higher values of SWD, nevertheless, tolerant genotypes revealed lower value of SWD as compared to susceptible one. Souza et al. (2013); Kachare et al. (2019); Mishra et al. (2021a) addressed analogous trend in SWD for the soybean genotypes.\r\nOn the basis of these findings, it is clear that the drought tolerant genotypes giving more yield under drought condition with increased value of turgid weight relative water content, saturation water deficit and membrane stability index. Similar results were also reported by Homayoun (2011). Under both conditions, correlation studies of grain yield per plant showed significant positive correlation with relative water contents (RWC) while negative correlation was evident with turgid weight, saturation water deficit, and Membrane stability index (MSI). Similar results also reported by Good et al. (1993); Magorokosho et al. (2003). Furthermore, correlation analysis along with other indices was proved to be a useful approach for rapid and cost-efficient screening of large number of genotypes against drought stress condition.\r\n','Pramod Kumar Yadav, A.K. Singh, M.K. Tripathi, Sushma Tiwari and Jaya Rathore (2022). Morpho-physiological Characterization of Maize (Zea mays L.) Genotypes against Drought. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 14(2): 708-716.'),(4934,'125','Genetic Variability among B & R Lines on milo and maldandi Cytoplasm in rabi Sorghum [Sorghum bicolor (L.) Moench]','Lokesh Kumar Verma* and B. D. Biradar','122 Genetic Variability among B & R Lines on milo and maldandi Cytoplasm in rabi Sorghum [Sorghum bicolor _L._ Moench] Lokesh Kumar Verma.pdf','',4,'The genetic study was conducted among 68 genotypes comprising of restorers and maintainers on milo and maldandi cytoplasm. Among the lines, IS 12735, DSMR-8, IS 33353 and IS 24175 exhibited full restoration on milo and DSMR-4 & DSMR-8 on maldandi. The lines viz., IS 30383, IS 29335, IS 29914, IS 8012 and IS 12308 exhibited perfect maintainer reaction on both milo & maldandi. High heritability and genetic advance were observed for most of the traits. G × E interaction was also found to be high for the majority of the traits. A high amount of genetic variability among the population indicated an increased opportunity for the selection of restorers, maintainers as the variation is heritable. These results together would help for the selection of diverse restorers and maintainers on milo and maldandi male sterile sources.','Milo, Maldandi, Rabi, Heritability, Genetic advance, Pooled analysis','Sorghum is one of the major important cereal crops, for millions of people across nations. The studied genotypes were significantly different for grain yield and yield contributing traits. Environmental conditions of rabi-2017 favoured most of the gneotypes. n On milo, the restores viz., IS 12735, DSMR-8, IS 33353 and IS 24175 while on the maldandi the restorers viz., DSMR-8 and DSMR-4 found to be productive. Whereas, among the maintainers IS 30383, IS 29335, IS 29914, IS 8012, and IS 12308 were found superior for grain yield and yield contributing traits across years. The restorers and maintainers can be exploited for widen the diversity in male sterile lines. A high amount of genetic variability among the population indicated an increased opportunity for the selection of restorers, maintainers as the variation is a heritable one. ','INTRODUCTION\r\nSorghum [Sorghum bicolor (L.) Moench] is one of the important cereal crop cultivated globally for food, fodder, feed and fuel. It ranks fifth after wheat, rice, maize, and barley in area and production. Due to the rich nutritional profile, it was marked as ‘Nutritional Grain’ (Aruna et al., 2020). The world’s sorghum production of 57.50 million tonnes comes from the area of 40.28 m ha with the productivity of 1.43 tonnes per hectare during 2019–2020 (FAOSTAT 2020). One of the saturation in productivity is due to limited genetic diversity among B & R, lines in the development of hybrids. This is mainly due to the single source of male sterility system viz., milo, which restricts nuclear diversity among B & R apart from creating cytoplasmic uniformity among hybrids. To overcome this, it is required to introduce diverse sterility systems (A2, A3, maldandi, G1 and VZM, etc.) and potential restorers on these sources. Keeping these things in view, 68 diverse lines were selected from the mini core on sorghum received from ICRISAT, Patencheru and studied for the genetic variability of 19 quantitative traits. \r\nMATERIALS AND METHODS \r\nThe experimental material consisted of 68 B & R lines on milo and maldandi cytoplasms, to study the variability, heritability, and genetic advance for the nineteen traits. The experiment was conducted in Complete Randomized Block Design with two replications. Each genotype was sown in two rows of 3 m at Botany garden, Department of Genetics and Plant Breeding, University of Agricultural Sciences, Dharwad in rabi 2017 and 2018. All recommended agronomic packages of practices were followed to raise a good crop expression. Observations on traits, namely, days to 50 % flowering, peduncle length (cm), panicle length (cm), panicle breadth (mm), primaries per panicle, whorls per panicle, leaves per plant, nodes per plant, plant height (cm), stem girth (mm), panicle weight per plant (g), grain yield per plant (g), test weight (g), grains per panicle, 1000 grains volume (cc), grain density, grain length (mm), grain width (mm) and grain thickness, recorded on randomly selected five competent plants in each replication. The replication-wise mean values from both years were subjected to statistical analysis (Snedecor and Cochran, 1967). Pooled analysis across years was carried out by following Comstock and Robinson\'s (1952). The GCV and PCV were estimated as per the procedure suggested by Burton and De Vane (1953). Heritability in the broad sense was estimated as per the procedure given by Hanson et al., 1956. Genetic advance as percent of the mean was categorized as given by Johnson et al., 1955.\r\nRESULTS AND DISCUSSION\r\nHighly significant differences between genotypes for all the studied traits were observed in both years. The pooled ANOVA for combined analysis over two years was estimated. The results showed significant differences between the two years for almost all the traits under study except for grain width, plant height, stem girth, and panicle weight. A similar result was obtained by jimmy et al. (2017), where plant height was observed as non-significant. The G x E interaction was also highly significant for almost all the traits which show differential response and differential performance of the genotypes in different environments (year). This outcome agrees with the findings of (Almeida et al., 2014) The results of pooled variance towards grain yield were due to genotypes (67.91) followed by G × E interaction (23.17), and a small proportion was contributed by the years. The treatments exhibited highly significant differences for all the traits. \r\nGenotype x Environment was found to be significant for all the studied traits except for nodes per plant, stem girth, and grain width The significant differences of these traits reveal inconsistencies in the performances of sorghum genotypes for these traits over the years environments. The non-significant traits viz., nodes per plant, stem girth, and grain width reveal their consistent performance in both years.\r\nGeneral and relative performance of the genotypes\r\nIndividual year\'s mean. The year 2017 was observed favorable for grain yield and panicle weight per plant with mean values of 63.41 g and 73.85 g per plant, respectively, indicating that the year 2017 was more favorable for sorghum production. \r\nPooled data. The mean grain yield over the two years was 59.75 g per plant, with genotype mean grain yield ranging from 28.15 g (IS 24492) to 112.81 g (PKV Kranti), indicating a wide difference in yield potential across two years. The identified restorers viz., IS 12735, DSMR-8, IS 33353 and IS 24175 were also found to be superior for grain yield and yield attributes. The lines viz., IS 30383, IS 29335, IS 29914, IS 8012 and IS 12308 recorded as perfect maintainers on both milo and maldandi. These maintainers also exhibited superiority for yield and yield contributing traits among identified maintainers. The identified restorers and maintainers can be useful for the diversification of the nuclear base. The identified maintainers having high mean values for grain yield and yield contributing traits along with the short sature like, IS 30383 (147.01 cm) and IS 29335 (162.80 cm) were most suited for conversion into new male sterile lines. By pooling all the maintainers as well as restorers, new more diverged, and productive maintainers and restorers can be exploited.\r\nPhenotypic and genotypic variances. High GCV and PCV were recorded for the traits viz., panicle length, panicle weight, grain yield, grains per panicle, 1000 grain volume in the year 2017, the year 2018 and for pooled analysis as well (Table 2). Similar outcomes reported by Nirosh et al. (2021). For most of the traits like peduncle length, primaries per panicle, grain length and grain thickness the high and moderate GCV and PCV were recorded in the year 2017 and across years. However, during the year 2018, these estimates were found to be moderate to low.\r\nHeritability and genetic advance. All the traits exhibited a high level of broad sense heritability in the pooled data and the years 2017 & 2018. If a trait has high heritability, selection for such traits could be easy, and the selection of genotypes based on grain yield and contributing traits would be sufficient to increase the yield in sorghum. Ranjith et al. (2018) also recorded high heritability for grain yield, test weight, and plant height. The density of the seeds exhibited low GCV across the years and in the pooled analysis as well. It shows that the grain density is under the strong influence of the environment. Whorls per panicle and stem girth were also influenced by the environments as they exhibited low GCV, and selection for these traits would not be much effective.\r\nAll the traits exhibited high genetic advance across the year and for pooled analysis as well, except for days to 50 % flowering, and grain density in the year 2017, days to 50 % flowering, whorls per panicle, stem girth, grain density, grain length, grain width and grain thickness in the year 2018 and stem girth and grain density for pooled analysis, which showed a moderate level of genetic advance. The trait, stem girth was found to be low for genetic advance in the year 2017. The effectiveness of selection depends upon genetic advance over a mean (GAM) of the trait selected along with high heritability. All the traits except stem girth and grain density showed high heritability along with high GAM in pooled data. A similar higher estimates of GAM for grain yield per plant, plant height, test weight and panicle length was reported by Gebregergs et al. (2020). The stem girth showed moderate heritability and low GAM, whereas grain density exhibited moderate heritability and moderate GAM. Chalachew et al. (2019) also observed similar findings for days to flowering and grain yield. High heritability with high GAM indicates the control of additive genes, and early selection may be effective for these characters. It is evident that high GCV along with high heritability and genetic advance is an effective selection criterion. Based on the results of the present study, the traits, namely, peduncle length, panicle length, primaries per panicle, leaves per plant, panicle weight, grain yield, test weight, grains per panicle and 1000 grain volume noticed with high GCV, high heritability and high GAM in the pooled analysis. \r\nHowever, days to 50 % flowering, panicle breadth, whorls per panicle, nodes per plant, plant height, grain length, grain width, and grain thickness exhibited moderate GCV along with high heritability and GAM. These are the most important traits for effective selection in sorghum, as indicated by this study. Heritability in a broad sense was observed high by Chalachew and Semahegn (2020) for all important quantitative traits. High GAM was revealed by plant height, panicle length, primaries per panicle, grain yield, test weight, seed volume, grain length, grain width, and grain thickness. This indicates that early selection for these traits will enhance the grain yield. The traits possessing low genetic advance with high or moderate heritability like stem girth in this study indicated non-additive gene action; thus, a simple selection procedure in early segregating generations will not be much effective for these traits. \r\n','Lokesh Kumar Verma and B. D. Biradar (2022). Genetic Variability Among B & R Lines on milo and maldandi Cytoplasm in rabi Sorghum [Sorghum bicolor (L.) Moench]. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 14(2): 717-720.');
INSERT INTO `pdf_upload` VALUES (4935,'125','Distribution, Host Range, Damage Potential, Bioecology and Management of Chilo partellus (Swinhoe): A Review','Ashok Kumar Sau*, K. Chandrakumara, Aditya K. Tanwar and Mukesh K. Dhillon','123 Distribution, Host Range, Damage Potential, Bioecology and Management of Chilo partellus _Swinhoe_ A Review Ashok Kumar Sau.pdf','',4,'In natural and agro-ecosystem plants remain exposed to a wide range of biotic stresses, among which ubiquitous prevalence of insect herbivores is of prime importance. Chilo partellus considered to be one of the most important and widely distributed insect pests of maize and sorghum in Asia and Africa. It has good thermal plasticity which helps to adapt in new geographical areas of different environments, and spreading to new countries as invasive pest where it was previously not found. Its major host plant maize, one of the important cereal crops is grown across the globe, it can survive on wide range of cultivated and wild species of poaceae family so there is a risk of invasion into new areas because of adaptive trait in C. partellus. Facultative Diapause is an important adaptive trait in C. partellus for survival in adverse environmental condition. There is substantial role of food along with other abiotic factors such as temperature and photoperiod, in induction of diapause in C. partellus. All these favourable factors may help the C. partellus to invade, survive and dominate in new agroecosystems. Furthermore, its cryptic nature of feeding protects it from direct exposure to chemical pesticide and natural enemies. Maize is one of the important cereal crops occupying third rank globally in area and production next to rice and wheat. So, for global food security, sustainable management of C. partellus should be done.','Cereal stem borer, Chilo partellus, Diapause, Bio-ecology, Management','The C. partellus is economically harmful for maize and sorghum agro-ecosystems worldwide, and has potential to spread in newer areas. Cryptic nature of feeding makes it difficult to manage through even chemical control, and there is a need to identify newer insecticide molecules with different mode of action, efficient biocontrol agents adapted to changing climatic conditions and stale sources of resistance in host crops for the management of C. partellus and sustainable crop production. The greater understanding on diapause physiology and associated reproductive fitness will also help in mapping the seasonal distribution patterns and off-season survival. Gene expression patterns linked with different phases of diapause, and insecticide action also need to be studied keeping in mind the presence of different biotypes.','INTRODUCTION\r\nChilo partellus (Swinhoe) commonly known as spotted stem borer, is a major pest of maize and sorghum in Asia and Africa. By invading to new areas, it hampers maize production worldwide (Kfir et al., 2002). In this review paper we are attempting to synthesize the information available on various aspects of C. partellus which could help in sustainable management of this pest and ensure global food security.\r\nOrigin and distribution. The C. partellus is native to Asia and from there it spread into eastern Africa in early 1930s (Tams, 1932) since than it has continuously expanded its presence in the warm, low-altitude regions of eastern and southern Africa (Kfir, 1997). In Asia it has widely distributed into India, Bangladesh, Cambodia, Indonesia, Pakistan, Sri Lanka, Thailand, Vietnam, Yemen, Afghanistan, Iran, and Laos, (Harris 1990). Based on biological attributes and biochemical profiles of C. partellus population from different locations of India, it was found that population from Hisar, Hyderabad, Parbhani and Coimbatore were distinct from each other, which indicated presence of four biotypes of C. partellus in India (Dhillon et al., 2021). In Africa, it was first time reported from Malawi (Tams, 1932), and subsequently it has spread to Ethiopia, Kenya, South Africa, Botswana, Comoros Islands, Eritrea, Lesotho, Mozambique, Somalia, Sudan, Swaziland, Tanzania, Uganda, Zambia and Zimbabwe (Kfir et al., 2002; Sylvain et al., 2015). In Africa, C. partellus has proven to be an efficient colonizer, and it seems to be displacing the indigenous stem borers of sorghum and maize like Busseola fusca (Lepidoptera: Noctuidae) by rapidly expanding its geographical ranges (Kfir, 1997; Guofa et al. 2001; Ong’amo et al. 2006b). One of the possible reasons behind this displacement and expansion could be its three-week shorter life cycle and one-month shorter diapause period than B. fusca which gives it a further competitive advantage because of its higher potential rate of increase (Kfir, 1997; Dejen et al. 2014). Recently, it has also been reported from the moderately drier regions of the Mediterranean Basin in Turkey (Bayram and Tong˘a 2015) and Israel (Ben-Yakir et al. 2013). So, it has widely distributed in Asia and Africa, and also spread to the Mediterranean region. Furthermore, it has been predicted that there is substantial invasion risk of C. partellus to cropping areas in the Americas, China, Europe, Australia, New Zealand and West Africa by using CLIMEX model (Yonow et al., 2017). So, it should be a pest of major concern to bio-security organisations in these uninvaded regions, and countries those are adjacent to currently infested regions in Africa and Asia.\r\nBiology and behaviour on different hosts. Study on biological performance of C. partellus on six different maize genotypes in Northern India found that larval period, larval survival, pupal period, pupal weight, adult emergence and fecundity of 20-22 days, 51-78%, 5-6 days, 63-92 mg/pupae, 30-52%, and 192-554 eggs/female respectively (Bhoi et al., 2017). It was reported that temperature, relative humidity (RH) and their interaction have significantly affected the developmental time, adult longevity and fecundity of the pest where developmental time was inversely related to temperature (Tamiru et al., 2012). Biological study of C. partellus on six landraces and one hybrid variety of maize shows that larval preference was lower for the landraces compared to hybrid and significantly lower larval survival in landraces (32%) compared to hybrid maize (54%). Adult female of C. partellus preferred non-exposed maize landraces for subsequent oviposition which deters further colonisation by the herbivore, while in case of hybrid, there was no difference in oviposition preference (Mutyambai et al., 2014) which shows different behavioural and physiological responses of C. partellus to different maize varieties. Study on the suitability of wild gramineous plants as hosts of C. partellus in comparison to a maize variety show significantly higher feeding and assimilation of food by larvae fed on maize than wild host. Also, larval growth and development were significantly faster on maize than wild host. However, there were no significant differences in oviposition preference but larval arrest and dispersal studies shows that from 77% to 88% first instar larvae were not recovered on wild host plant after three days (Mohamed et al., 2004). Finding on mating among different age male and female adults of C. partellus shows that the increasing age of C. partellus females at the time of mating greatly reduces the hatchability and fecundity of eggs, and mating in early age reduced the longevity of males and females (Dhillon et al., 2019b). Changing climatic scenario has implications for bio-ecology and population dynamics in C. partellus. In a diapause experiencing population of C. partellus, reduction in longevity, egg viability and fecundity were recorded which ultimately leads to a reduction in population growth parameters, but due to global warming if it does not enter in diapause than its population may increase faster (Dhillon and Hasan, 2018).\r\nHost range and nature of damage in different crops. The spotted stemborer, C. partellus is a generalist herbivore and feeds on several species of cultivated and wild plants of Poaceae family (Ong’amo et al., 2006a; Moolman et al., 2014). It is the most damaging Lepidopteran pest of maize in Asia, eastern and southern Africa (Kfir et al., 2002), causing significant losses in grain yields. Several reports confirm that the C. partellus is possibly a serious pest of maize and sorghum in Asia (Doharey, 1971; Ahad et al., 2008; Dang and Harris 1990) and the most severe insect pest of maize and sorghum in eastern and southern Africa (Harris, 1990; Bate et al., 1991; Sylvain et al., 2015). It has also been described as a pest of rice (Harris, 1990), sugarcane (Assefa et al., 2010, Harris, 1990), and pearl millet (Harris, 1990). The presence, abundance and intensity of infestation by C. partellus is influenced by both abiotic and biotic factors in different geographical region (Dhillon et al., 2017). The newly emerged larvae of C. partellus prefers to feed on young leaves whorls causing scars and holes; then move towards growing point of plant and bore in the central whorl (Kfir et al. , 2002), which causes a characteristic symptom known as “dead-heart”. However, the older larvae tunnel extensively in maize stem which causes lodging and interference with the grain formation (Kfir et al., 2002).\r\nDamage parameters and yield loss. Generally, understanding the relationship between damage parameters (foliar lesions, dead heart and stem tunnelling) and corresponding yield loss elucidates the most important yield reducing parameters. In case of C. partellus reduction in number of ears harvested in maize due to larval damage was primary cause of yield reduction. In a study it was found that the combined effect of ears and stem tunnelling accounted for 34-43% yield reduction while other traits cause less than 2% reduction (Ajala and Saxena 1994). It is one of the major biotic limiting factors of maize and sorghum productivity (Pingali and Pandey 2001; James, 2003). The C. partellus cause 18-25% yield losses in maize and sorghum under diverse agroclimatic conditions in Asia and Africa (Dhaliwal et al., 2015). The Average avoidable yield losses caused by C. partellus were reported to be 13% to maize crop sown in month of June which calculated based on protection provided with chemical spray in Punjab, India (Dhaliwal et al., 2018). The yield loss caused by C. partellus in Nepal was estimated around 28% in unprotected maize as compared to protected maize (Sharma and Gautam 2010). \r\nDiapause strategy in Chilo partellus: Hibernation and aestivation. Diapause is a genetically determined adaptive scheme of insects to survive during predictable adverse environmental conditions when the resources needed for development, reproduction and population growth are lacking. It is arrest in development accompanied by suppressed metabolism and eventually lifting the arrest to resume development or reproduction (Denlinger, 2002). It is a seasonal dormancy and its expression is regulated by different environmental factors that precede and reliably foresee the arrival of unfavourable conditions for insect. It also helps the insects to match the activity cycles with the onset of optimum climatic conditions thus ensuring effective resource utilization (Yocum et al., 2011). It is characterized by behavioral inactivity, slowing growth, and morphogenesis and reproductive functions arrest (Danks, 1987). During diapause normal progression of development is abruptly brought to a halt for many months and not to be resumed until favourable condition come. The capacity for diapause is widespread among insects that has contributed to their survival by allowing them to exploit seasonal resources and escape the harsh environmental conditions (Denlinger, 2002). The key feature of C. partellus bioecology is the arrangement of the facultative type of diapause (Dhillon and Hasan 2017a; Kfir et al., 2002; Ofomata et al., 1999). Full grown larvae of C. partellus enter diapause inside the old stems or stubbles which usually occur during host plant maturity periods (Ofomata et al., 1999). In maize and sorghum agro-ecosystem, C. partellus have a dormancy duration of 45–50 days before termination of true diapause that matches its activity cycles with favourable conditions, thus ensuring effective resource utilization (Dhillon & Hasan, 2017a; Dhillon et al., 2017). Larvae of C. partellus undergo estivation (summer diapause) under South parts of India (Trehan & Butani 1949). Dhillon et al. (2019a) concluded that the precise combination of temperature and photoperiod and food quality were essential for estivation in C. partellus and found that 32°C + 13L:11D along with dry food were optimum conditions for estivation induction in the laboratory.\r\nGeneral stages of diapause and its regulation. The insect undergoing diapause passes through a sequence of physiological events including diapause induction, maintenance, termination, and post-diapause development. Induction phase occurs when cues from the environment are sensed. During maintenance phase, the endogenous developmental arrest persists where metabolic rate is relatively low and constant. In termination phase Specific changes in environmental conditions cause decrease the intensity of diapause to its minimum level. (Kostal, 2006). In photosensitive phase, insects program their diapause based on sensitivity to daylength usually far in advance of the actual expression of diapause stage. The basic requirement is to distinguish the long days from short days (a clock) and to count the number of short days that have occurred (a counter). This temporal segregation has evolved to offer a period of preparation for diapause and events that occur during this phase are very important because failure to adequately prepare for diapause will reduce the chances of survival after the diapause. This period may enable the diapause-destined insect to locate a suitable place, sequestration of additional fat reserves (Adedokun and Denlinger 1985), deposition of extra layers of hydrocarbons for waterproofing the cuticle (Yoder et al., 1992), or the synthesis of storage proteins (Chippendale, 1988). These additional fat and protein serve the nutritional requirement during diapause and source for the extensive tissue development that occurs immediately following diapause termination. At attaining the correct stage for diapause, the insect arrests its development and switches on the new metabolic machinery that will sustain it during metabolic suppression, and then at correct time it decides to resume development (Denlinger, 2002). Diapause is genetically determined, with the neuro-hormonal system as mediator. It is regulated by combination of environmental, hormonal and molecular regulation. (Denlinger, 2002). Degree of dominance estimates in C. partellus shown that diapause, developmental and morphometric traits are governed by over dominance gene effects, and mainly depend on parental diapause history (Dhillon et al., 2020).\r\nDiapause induction and termination factors. It is important to understand the influence of different factors on different diapause phases for predicting the onset and termination of diapause in the field. Among the different environmental factors, temperature and photoperiod are viewed as the key environmental factors which contribute in the developmental biology of arthropods (Haghani et al., 2007). Moreover, temperature and photoperiod play a very important role in deciding the type of diapause either hibernation or aestivation (Dhillon et al., 2017, 2019a; Dhillon and Hasan, 2017b). Each phase of diapause is strongly affected by photoperiod and temperature (Tauber et al., 1987; Danks, 1987). Different combination of these factors affects the seasonal adaptation, regulate the ecological, behavioral and physiological activities in insects (Roy et al., 2002). Scheltes (1978) investigated three plant factors; water, soluble sugar and crude protein in relation to diapause and found that diapause could be \"artificially\" induced in non-diapause larvae by introducing it into aged maize stems. The rice stem borer, Chilo suppressalis (Walker) as fully grown larvae enters facultative diapause in response to short-day conditions. It was found that the third instar of larvae was most sensitive to the photoperiod, and night length played an essential role in the initiation of diapause (Xiao et al., 2010). The seasonal changes together with host plant maturity enforces North Indian C. partellus population larvae to undergo hibernation, where as in South India it enters aestivation (Dhillon and Hasan 2017a).\r\nGenerally, termination of diapause is affected by a combination of high temperature and a long day photoperiod. Long days accelerated pupation (upto 16 hr daylength), and provision of artificial diet not have any effect but water decreased the time to pupation. Under laboratory condition of 28o C temperature, 16 h daylength and availability of water, C. partellus diapausing larvae pupated in about 9 days by termination of diapause (Kfir, 1993).\r\nBiochemical, Morphological and biological changes during diapauses. Various changes such as suppression of development and reproductive function, and increase in metabolic reserves could occur when insect undergoes diapause (Irwin and Lee 2000; Jiang et al., 2010). Studies to measure the changes in amino acid and lipophilic profiles of C. partellus larvae show higher amounts of amino acids (namely; serine, glycine, histidine, arginine, proline, tyrosine, and methionine) in estivation, while lower in hibernation as compared to non-diapause larvae. The lipophilic compounds also have variability in hibernation and estivation with non-diapausing stage (Tanwar et al., 2021). Larvae of C. partellus totally lack cuticular pigmentations, markings, spots, and asetose tubercle during diapause stage. Intermediate of non-diapausing and diapausing larvae are less conspicuously pigmented (Dhillon & Hasan 2017a). Longer the larvae remained in diapause, the lighter in weight the emerging moths were, with fewer eggs and oocytes (Kfir, 1991). A significant decrease in body weight, size and head capsule width in diapause larvae were reported, with smaller pupal and adult sizes (Dhillon & Hasan 2017a). During diapause, larvae of C. partellus progressively decreased in weight at the rate of 4.5 mg per week, lost 50% of their initial body mass and had up to seven stationary moults, became less active and lost pigmentation (Kfir, 1991).\r\n\r\nMANAGEMENT OF Chilo partellus\r\nEIL in maize. The economic injury level (EIL) of C. partellus on maize at four different stages of crop growth stages were calculated in India. EIL was found to increase as the age of crop infestation increases, being low at 12 and 17days old plants (1.24 and 1.38 larvae/plant) but higher on 22 and 27days old plants (2.56 and 3.36 larvae/plant) (Sharma and Sharma 1987). In Kenya EIL was calculated on 20, 40 and 60days old maize plant by releasing varying density of C. partellus larvae and it was found to 3.2 and 3.9 larvae/ plant for 20 and 40 days old plants, respectively. Maximum yield reduction and stalk damage reported to the 20-day old crop, while effect on yield was insignificant for the 60-day old crop (Reddy and Sum, 1991).\r\nRole of host plant resistance and genetic engineering. Variation in performance and abundance of herbivorous insects is attributed to variation in host plant quality, being determined by nutritional composition, allelochemistry and specific anatomical features. In non-preference type mechanisms of resistance, plants possess characteristics which inhibit insect responses such as orientation, feeding, and ovipositional, while antibiosis mechanisms of plants would involve the metabolic responses of plant to insect such as provide inadequate nutrients or metabolic inhibitors to cause failure of larval development, survival, egg production, and hatching of the eggs (Kumar, 1997). Considerable genetic variability amongst the sorghum genotypes for different types of damage caused by C. partellus were reported and study also found that criteria such as resistance to leaf feeding, deadheart formation, stem tunnelling and/or compensation in grain yield can be selected for use in sorghum improvement (Singh et al., 2012). Significant genetic difference among landraces in terms of their growth, tolerance, and constitutive resistance to C. partellus were reported in twenty Sorghum bicolor landraces from the tropics, suggesting that it is possible to enhance both tolerance and resistance defence strategies in S. bicolor to C. partellus. Study on resistance of maize to C. partellus found that selected genotypes (CPM 2, CPM 8, CPM 13, CPM 15 and CPM 18) having variable morphological traits (leaf glossiness, anthocyanin pigmentation and seedling vigor), had significantly lower dead-hearts and more adverse effects on biological parameters of insect compared to the resistant check (CML 334) which pooled together shows antibiosis mechanism of resistance (Dhillon and Chaudhary 2015). Certain amino and fatty acids play essential role in plant–herbivore interactions and induction of antibiotic defence in plant to herbivore. Study on amino acid profiling suggests that Cystine and Proline contents in sorghum seedlings, and Alanine, Cystine, Glycine, and Proline contents in C. partellus larvae have significant and negative association, and contribute to explain >90% variability in antibiosis to C. partellus (Dhillon and Kumar 2017). The fatty acids such as myristic acid, methyl 3-methoxytetradecanoate, palmitic acid, stearic acid and squalene found in both sorghum plant and C. partellus, could be used as biomarkers for C. partellus interactions (Dhillon and Kumar 2020). In maize plant, amino acids viz., aspartic acid, glycine, histidine, lysine, phenylalanine, proline, and serine; and the fatty acid, stearic acid showed significant association with various development parameters against C. partellus, could be used as biomarkers to identify resistant maize genotypes (Yele et al., 2021). It was reported that significantly poor survival and development of C. partellus on white and yellow kernel maize genotypes than that on QPM and sweet corn genotypes which shows their resistance to spotted stem borer (Yele et al., 2019).\r\nTransgenic Bt maize can help to manage several species of Lepidopteran stem borers including C. partellus (Tefera et al., 2016; Tende et al., 2010). Study in Uganda shows that Bt maize (MON810) with Cry1Ab was protected against leaf damage and limited stem borer entry into maize stems. It was also reported to be effective in controlling C. partellus, also 30–80% higher yield than non Bt hybrids. In India, Bt maize is not allowed to be cultivated. Transgenic sorghum plants expressing a synthetic cry1Ac gene under control of a wound-inducible promoter from the maize protease inhibitor gene (mpiC1) found up to 60% reduction in leaf damage, 40% larval mortality, with the surviving larvae showing a 36% weight reduction over those fed on control plants (Girijashankar et al., 2005).\r\nBehavioral management: ecological engineering. Farming systems for pest control based on the simultaneous stimulo-deterrent diversionary strategy or called push–pull system used for pest management. A prominent example is from sub-Saharan Africa for smallholder farming cereal production against lepidopterous stem borers. (Pickett et al., 2014). Napier grass (Pennisetum purpureum) used as animal fodder having potential role as a trap crop in the management of C. partellus through habitat manipulation. It was reported that gravid female moths preferentially chose Napier grass for oviposition over a susceptible maize cultivar. Larval survival was significantly lower (about 10%) on the majority of the Napier grass varieties, also larval development took 2 more weeks (Khan et al., 2006). Napier grass were more preferred by the borer moths for oviposition and allowed minimal survival of the larvae which also desirable for conservation of natural enemies. In a recent study Brachiaria grass (Poaceae) were also reported as a trap crop for C. partellus. The female prefers brachiaria plants over maize for oviposition and brachiaria plants have negative effects on subsequent larval survival and development. No larvae survived on brachiaria plant tissue more than 5 days, while 79% of the larvae survived on maize (Cheruiyot et al., 2018). This technique is even more efficient in case of C. partellus due to specific host plant selection behaviour of this insect which increase the effectiveness of a trap crop. Here, female moths have oviposition preference for napier grass which is not a good food for larvae, but larvae did not have any clear behaviour to reject it. So, Napier grass is beneficial for trap cropping in management of this pest, (Midega et al., 2011). Further, it was reported that predation rates of the C. partellus eggs were significantly higher in the ‘push – pull’ than in the maize monocrop plots which so the biocontrol of this pest on maize crop is more efficient in push-pull strategy (Midega et al., 2006). Soil conditioning through companion cropping in an agricultural ecosystem can have impact on growth rate and chemical phenotype of maize which have negative effect on pest performance by suppressing larval feeding. This new mechanism of associational resistance further increases the effectiveness of push-pull companion cropping system to manage insect pests (Mutyamba et al., 2017). So, both above mentioned plants can be used as trap crop around the maize field and Desmodium spp. (Fabaceae) plant can be planted in-between to repel the adult moth of this pest for sustainable management of C. partellus.\r\nBiocontrol agents: microbial bioagent and parasitoids. Biological control with microbial pathogens offers an alternative method of controlling the pest. The efficacy of 3 formulation of Beauveria bassiana against C. partellus were tested and found that both aqueous and dry rice grain-based inoculums showed good result in reducing larval population, foliar damage, and stalk tunnel length (Maniania, 1993). These formulations are easy to apply and manage the C. partellus at small scale level can developed by using other cheap and locally available raw materials. Careful selection of fungal isolates for use as microbial control agents is important. Laboratory tests have identified four strains (B. bassiana ICIPE 35 and 4, and M. anisopliae ICIPE 18 and 30) which were found to be highly pathogenic to C. partellus among 15 strains tested (Maniania, 1992). Use of more than one pathogen provides even better control. Combined application of B. thuringiensis and B. bassiana could be a cost-effective and eco-friendly approach for the successful management of C. partellus. Application of B. bassiana (1× 108 spores/ml) and B. thuringiensis (0.75μg/g) together exhibited highest larval mortality of larvae while the 2nd instar larvae were more susceptible to it than 4th larval instars (Sufyan et al., 2019). Chilo partellus Nucleopolyhedrosis virus (CpNPV) belonging to the family Baculoviridae which was isolated from diseased larvae of C. partellus were found to cause larval mortality with typical symptoms of viral infection in C. partellus (Sethuraman and Narayanan 2010). \r\nThe different stages of C. partellus attacked by a wide array of parasitoids in natural condition and some of them are commercially used manage this pest in ago-ecosystem. Egg parasitoids, Trichogramma spp. (Hymenoptera: Trichogrammatidae) are widely used against lepidopteran insect-pests. Study from Bangalore, India shows that parasitism rates by T. chilonis on C. partellus eggs were up to 63% with significantly reduction in stem tunnelling when parasitoids releases at 5 days interval. Furthermore, the combined application of T. chilonis and B. thuringiensis resulted in significantly less pest infestation and stem tunnelling compared to individual treatments (Jalali and Singh 2006). Recent study from northern India shows that maximum egg parasitism of C. partellus with effective suppression of maize plant infestation, dead heart and leaf injury when T. chilonis were released twice at 7 and 14 days after germination @ 1,25,000 parasitized eggs per ha. (Singh et al., 2020). In southern India, larval parasitoid, Cotesia flavipes in kharif season (29% parasitization) and Sturmiopsis inferens in rabi-summer season (28%parasitization) was found to be very active, while population of 2% pupal parasitoid, Tetrastichus sp., was also recorded during kharif season on C. partellus (Divya et al., 2009). It was reported that C. flavipes have better functional and numerical responses on C. partellus than Cotesia sesamiae in Kenya (Sallam et al., 1999). The global climate change may alter the resistance to temperature stress in insects which could affect biocontrol efficacy. Phenotypical plastic responses are important mechanism for an organism to survive when faced with novel environments (Nyamukondiwa et al., 2010). Study suggest that thermal plasticity may enhance the survival of C. partellus and C. flavipes when they are exposed to lethal low and high temperatures which helps to potentially mediate the interaction between them in rapidly changing environments, however, C. partellus appeared to be more plastic, and may inhabit slightly warmer environments than C. flavipes (Mutamiswa et al., 2018).\r\nEfficacy of insecticides in India\r\nBio-efficacy of insecticides on C. partellus was tested and found minimum percent infestation recorded in chlorantraniliprole 20 SC @ 0.3 ml/l while maximum benefit: cost ratio (14:1) was found in flubendiamide 480 SC @ 0.2 ml/l treatment (Kumar and Alam, 2017). Study on efficacy of tetraniliprole 480 FS as seed treatment on C. partellus in maize crop results revealed that the insecticidal dose of 3.6 g/kg of seed found to provide maximum control while 1.2 and 2.4 g/kg of seed found safe to natural enemies of C. partellus among different dose treatment (Alam et al., 2020). Another study done in Gujrat, India found that Spinosad 45SC @ 0.002 % and Chlorantraniliprole 18.5 SC @ 0.006% were found highly effective in reducing the larval population of C. partellus and dead heart in maize (Devananda et al., 2018). \r\nStudy evaluated the lethal and sublethal effects of twelve insecticides on parasitoid C. flavipes indicated that based on residual toxicity test organophosphates exhibited highest contact toxicity to adults (LC50 0.60-1.05mg a.i/l), while neonicotinoids were less toxic (LC50 1.30-139.00 mg a.i/l), and sugar-insecticide feeding bioassays showed that organophosphates, pyrethroids and carbamates were highly toxic to adults and caused 100% mortality at 48 h of exposure in C. flavipes. Imidacloprid and acetamiprid were the least toxic to this parasitoid so they can be used in sustainable control of C. partellus (Akhtar et al., 2021). Report on whole genome sequencing of C. partellus reveals multiple genes encoding different enzymes for detoxification of insecticides. Total 64 cytochrome P450 genes (CYP450s), and 36 glutathione S-transferases genes (GSTs) were identified which primarily responsible for xenobiotic metabolism in insects. In C. partellus genome total 183 circadian genes with and 11 olfactory receptor genes that mediate chemical cues were found. Target receptors related to insecticide action, 4 acetylcholinesterase (AChE), 14 γ aminobutyric acid (GABA), and 15 nicotinic acetylcholine (nAChR) receptors were also detected (Dhillon et al., 2022). These information’s will be useful for deployment of selective insecticides for the control of C. partellus.\r\n','Ashok Kumar Sau, K. Chandrakumara, Aditya K. Tanwar and Mukesh K. Dhillon (2022). Distribution, Host Range, Damage Potential, Bioecology and Management of Chilo partellus (Swinhoe): A Review. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 14(2): 721-728.'),(4936,'125','Effect of Seed Pelleting with Rhizobium and Nitrogen Application on Yield and Quality of Cowpea Seeds','Nirmal Singh* and Ashok K. Thakur','124 Effect of Seed Pelleting with Rhizobium and Nitrogen Application on Yield and Quality of Cowpea Seeds Nirmal Singh.pdf','',4,'Seed treatment with biofertilizers reduces demand of artificial fertilizers and reduces environmental pollution and cost of cultivation. By keeping this aspect in mind, an experiment was laid out to check the effect of seed pelleting with Rhizobium and different dose of nitrogen application on yield and quality of cowpea seeds. Experiment was laid out in a Randomized Block Design (Factorial) with different pelleting material i.e. no pelleting (P1), Rhizobium liquid (P2), Rhizobium powder (P3) and Rhizobium liquid with jaggery (P4) and 5 levels of nitrogen application i.e. 0% N of Recommended dose of fertilizer (F1), 40% N of RDF (F2), 60% N of RDF (F3), 80% N of RDF (F4) and 100% N of RDF (F5). Results of experiment showed that maximum seed yield per plant and per hectare was found when seeds were pelleted with Rhizobium (liquid form) and yield was increased by 15.74% and 23.21% over control, respectively. Nitrogen application also significantly affected seed yield over control and maximum was found when 80% N of recommended dose of fertilizer (RDF) was applied. In case of nitrogen application, seed yield per plant and per hectare was increased by 10.34% and 13.71% over control, respectively. Seed quality of harvested seeds from field was also analyzed and found that seed pelleting with Rhizobium (liquid form) and 80% N of RDF produced high vigour seeds in comparison to control and other treatments.','Cowpea, Nitrogen, Pelleting, Rhizobium, Seed yield, Seed quality','Seed pelleting with Rhizobium was found to be a recognized technique to increase seed yield in cowpea. Seed pelleting with Rhizobium and proper nitrogen application are known to increased seed quality parameters. Still there is always room for improvement and research in every area but cowpea seed treatments with Rhizobium could be recommended for sowing in Himachal Pradesh conditions.','INTRODUCTION\r\nAccording to estimation by FAO, global population will be around 9.1 billion by 2050 (Cohen, 2005) and around (Barrett, 2010). To feed all the population, challenges in current agriculture like climate change, shrinking available land for agriculture, higher use of chemical fertilizers, depleting soil properties, yield stagnation of crops etc. have to be reduced by adopting sustainable agriculture (Gomiero et al., 2011). A sustainable agriculture is one which depletes neither the people nor the land. Sustainable agriculture is known for environment protection, to maintain soil properties and to expand Earth’s natural resource base (Gold, 2016). The increasing demand of crop yield and food can be achieved by use of biofertilizers like Rhizobium, Azotobacter, Azospirillum and blue green algae (BGA) for the betterment of crops (Mishra et al.,2013) and even for the health of soil (Singh et al., 2014). Rhizobium fixes nitrogen symbiotically and stimulates plant growth by production of plant growth hormones (Tilak et al., 2006), vitamins, by solubilization of insoluble phosphates, induction of systemic disease resistance and enhancement in stress resistance (Lebrazi\r\nand Benbrahim 2014). Interaction between Rhizobium and legume crops has potential to increase agricultural productivity with less dependence on non-renewable inputs like artificial fertilizers (Peoples et al., 2009).\r\nCowpea [Vigna unguiculata (L.) Walp], a member of Leguminosae family (Ng and Padulosi, 1991, Kumar et al., 2022)is a crop of great economic importance for low-income population in developing countries (Verdier et al., 1998; Singh, 1997) because it is good source of protein (Fatokun, 2002), carbohydrate, vitamins and minerals (Iqbal et al., 2006). Being a leguminous crop, it also fixes nitrogen symbiotically with biofertilizers (Eke-Okoro et al., 1999); although it requires nitrogen as a small basal dose for quick and better start because it is essential constituent of many enzymes, protein and chlorophyll. To ensure proper germination and growth of seedlings, there are different ways to apply biofertilizers to seeds of cowpea and seed pelleting with Rhizobiumis one of them. Seed pelleting is a mechanism of applying needed material in such a way that they affect the seed or soil at the seed-soil interface to ensure better performance of seed. Seed pelleting with Rhizobium can also reduce the negative effect on seed germination, seedling growth and plant growth in soil due to excessive use of urea (Bremner and Krogmeier, 1989). Pawar et al. (2014) reported that seed inoculation with Rhizobium show higher growth and yield in legumes when it is compared to application of Rhizobium in soil as biofertilizers. Besides, cowpea has inherent problems like flower shedding, shrinkable seeds, poor pod and seed setting due to deficiency of micronutrients, macronutrients, growth promoting substances and biotic stress and Rhizobium is known for providing plant growth promoting substances like auxin and to increase nutrient uptake. Keeping in view the above prospective, this study had been planned to determine the effect of seed pelleting with Rhizobium and nitrogen application on yield and quality parameters of cowpea crop.\r\nMATERIALS AND METHODS\r\nThis experiment was conducted during Kharif season of 2015-16 at experimental farm of Dr. Y S Parmar UHF which is located at an altitude of 1250 meters above mean sea level with latitude of 35.5oN and longitude of 77.8oE in the mid- hill zone of Himachal Pradesh, India. Genetically pure seed of cowpea cv. Him Lobia 1 was used for experiment. Liquid and powder form of Rhizobium culture was obtained from Soil microbiology laboratory of Department of Soil Science and water management. Seeds were pelleted at CSIR-IHBT (Institute of Himalayan Bioresource Technology) Palampur, HP, India. For seed pelleting clay and adhesive (45% Gum Arabica) was used. There were total 20 treatment combinations (4 level of seed pelleting i.e. P1-Control, P2-Rhizobium liquid + clay + adhesive, P3- Rhizobium powder + clay + adhesive, P4- Rhizobium liquid formulation + jaggary and 5 level of nitrogen application i.e. F1-0 % Nitrogen of Recommended dose of fertilizer, F2 -40% N of RDF, F3 -60% N of RDF, F4 -80% N of RDF, F5 -100% N of RDF) and each treatment was replicated three times so there were total 60 plots of 1.8m × 1.5m (i.e. 2.7 m2) size. There were total 40 plants in every plot and spacing was 45cm × 15cm. Urea is applied to these plots and recommended dose for cowpea is 45kg/hectare. Seed yield per plant and per hectare as yield parameters and germination %, speed of germination, seedling length, seedling dry weight, seed vigour index-I and seed vigour index-II as seed quality parameters were observed.\r\nRESULTS AND DISCUSSIONS\r\nSeed pelleting with Rhizobium (liquid and powder form) and jaggary affected significantly seed yield of crop. Seed yield per plant was increased by 15.74% over control (no pelleting) when seed were pelleted with Rhizobium liquid form. Maximum average seed yield per plant (22.49 g) was found when seed were pelleted with liquid form (P2) and minimum average yield per plant (19.43 g) was found in control (no pelleting) treatment. It might be due to that Rhizobium ensures proper nodulation in root zone which leads adequate nitrogen uptake (Vessey, 2003). Rhizobium also exhibits antibacterial and antifungal activities (Pawaret al., 2014) which allow seeds for healthy seedling rise. Similar findings were obtained by Bohra et al. (1990); (Patel and Jadav, 2010); (Mishra and Solanki, 1996) and Rajput (1994) in cowpea. (Khanamet al., 1994); (Albayrak et al., 2006); (Khalil et al., 1989) also found increased yield per plant in chick pea, Common Vetch (Vicia sativa L.) and mung bean respectively when seeds of these crops were inoculated with Rhizobium. Different dose of nitrogen application as application of urea also affected seed yield per plant significantly. Maximum average seed yield per plant (21.86 g) was found when 80% N of RDF was applied to plots and minimum (19.81 g) was found in control in which urea was not applied. Application of nitrogen in form of urea increased seed yield per plant because nitrogen helps in vegetative growth of plant and nitrogen also play a vital role to reduce nutritional deficiency especially at reproductive stage which leads to high number of pods per plant, seeds per pod and finally higher seed yield (Umeh et al., 2011); (Thies et al., 1991); (Pikul et al.,1997) also found increased yield in different legumes when seeds were treated with Rhizobium. (Upadhyay and Singh, 2016) also reported that recommended nitrogen dose increased seed yield in cowpea. The interaction effects due to seed pelleting and nitrogen application were found to be non-significant at 5% level of significance. Maximum average seed yield was found when 80% N of RDF (F4) applied and seeds pelleted with liquid form of Rhizobium (P2). Minimum average seed yield per plant was found in P1F1 (control + 0% N of RDF). Around 28% yield per plant was increased in P2F4 over control (P1F1). Kishan et al., (2002) also reported that seed pelleting with Rhizobium and nitrogen application increase seed yield in cowpea cv. Pusa Phalguni. Same findings were also obtained by Mishra and Solanki, (1996) in cowpea and Soni et al., (2021) in pigeonpea.\r\nSeed yield per hectare was significantly affected by different seed pelleting and nitrogen application treatments. Interaction effect of seed pelleting and nitrogen application was non-significant on seed yield per hectare though. When seeds were inoculated with liquid form of Rhizobium pelleting than total yield per hectare was increased by 20.1% over control. Among different doses of nitrogen application, 80% N of RDF gave maximum yield (23.96 q) which was 12% higher in comparison to control (0% N of RDF).Treatment combination of liquid Rhizobium pelleting (P2) and 80% N of RDF (F4) gave maximum (26.73 q) yield per hectare and minimum (19.39 q) was found in P1F1 (non-pellet seeds + 0% N of RDF). There was around 37% hike in seed yield per hectare when seeds were pelleted with Rhizobium liquid and 80% N of RDF were supplied to plots over control (non-pellet seeds + 0% N of RDF). Seed pelleting with Powder form of Rhizobium also increased the seed yield. The enhancement in seed yield per hectare due to seed pelleting with Rhizobium might be due to the carryover beneficial effects of pre sowing treatments with nutrients to the seeds which led to better plant growth during vegetative and reproductive phase and ultimately led to increased seed yield. Seed yield per hectare was increased linearly with the increasing levels of nitrogen fertilization with Rhizobium seed pelleting due to increase in plant height, number of branches per plant, number of pods per plant and number of seeds per pods. Harvested seeds from crop were analyzed for seed quality parameters like germination percentage, seedling length, seedling weight and vigour index and found that all the parameters were increased in comparison to seeds which were sown.\r\nAmong different types of pelleting treatments, maximum germination (95.90%) was found with Rhizobium liquid pelleted seeds (P2) and minimum (91.85%) was found in non-pelleted seeds (P1). The application of different nitrogen doses had also exhibited significant effect on germination. Maximum germination (94.75%) was found with application of 80% N of RDF (F4) and found to be statistically superior to all other doses of nitrogen. However, minimum germination (92.75%) was found with the application of 0% N of RDF (F1).Interaction effect of seed pelleting and nitrogen application on germination percentage was non-significant buy germination percentage increased in every treatment and maximum (96.25%) was found in P2F4 and minimum (91.25%) was in control (P1F1). It might be due to freshly harvested seeds from plants which had uptake proper quantity of nutrients during their growth. Due to proper supply of nitrogen during mother plant growth, mother plants might be produced high content protein seeds and high content of protein in seeds in known for higher germination. Similar results of increased germination due to seed inoculation with Rhizobium and nitrogen application was reported by Yadav and Malik (2005) in cowpea.Both treatment; seed pelleting and nitrogen application had significant effect on speed of germination separately but interaction effect of both treatments was non-significant. In case of seed pelleting, maximum (58.66) speed of germination was found in P2 and minimum (56.67) was found in control. Among treatment of nitrogen application, maximum (58.97) speed of germination was found in F4 and minimum (57.10) was found in control (F1). The biofertilizers and nitrogen doses provide different micronutrients to the mother plant at early stages of growth that play vital role in producing good quality seed and good quality seeds led to higher speed of germination. Increased speed of germination due to seed pelleting was also recorded by Shashibhaskar et al. (2009); Masuthi et al. (2009).\r\nDifferent pelleting treatments and nitrogen application had significant effect on seed vigour index-I. Among different pelleting treatments, maximum (2774.08) SVI-I was found in P2 and minimum (2665.95) was found in non-pelleted seeds (P1). Among different nitrogen application, maximum (2835.38) SVI-I was found in F4 and minimum (2658.79) was found in F1. Interaction of seed pelleting and nitrogen application had also significant effect on SVI-I and maximum (2952.33) SVI-I was found in P2F4 and minimum (2556.70) was found in P1F2. Micronutrients provided to the mother plant during the early stages of growth helps to produce uniform, bold and vigorous seed that results in good germination and seedling length that led to enhanced SVI-I. Increased seed vigour index-I might be due to increased germination and seedling length. Similar findings of increased seed vigour index-I due to seed pelleting with Rhizobium and nitrogen application was reported by Kishan et al. (2001) in cowpea cv. Pusa Phalguni.\r\nDifferent types of pelleting and different doses of nitrogen had significant effect on seed vigour index-II in cowpea. Among different types of pelleting, maximum seed vigour index-II (7346.90) was found with Rhizobium (liquid form) pelleted seeds and minimum (6156.50) was found in the non-pelleted seeds (P1). The application of different nitrogen doses also exhibited significant effect on seed vigour index-II. Maximum seed vigour index-II (6823.56) was found with application of 80% N of RDF (F4) and found to be statistically superior to all other doses of nitrogen. However, minimum seed vigour index-II (6447.40) was found with the application of 0% N of RDF (F1). The interaction effects due to seed pelleting and nutrition management were found to be non-significant at 5% level of significance. Masuthiet al. (2009) reported that the seed pelleting provides the nutrient to the mother plant during early stages of growth which led to formation of bold and vigours seeds. The enhanced germination and seedling dry weight due to vigorous seeds led to enhanced SVI-II.\r\nThe biofertilizers and nitrogen doses provide different micronutrients to the mother plant at early stages of growth that play vital role in seed set, seed size and quality. Higher seed quality might be due to well-developed seeds with higher thousand seed weight and additional supply of micronutrients due to seed pelleting to the mother plant which led to the production of bold and vigorous quality seeds. The good quality seeds led to higher speed of germination and seedling vigour (length and dry weight).The increased seedling length of seeds harvested from the crop raised from pelleted seeds has also been reported by (Masuthi et al., 2009) in cowpea. Seedling dry weight. Similar findings of increased seed vigour index-I due to seed pelleting with Rhizobium and nitrogen application was reported by Swaroop et al., (2001) in cowpea; Khatana et al. (2021) and in chickpea by Patil et al. (2002).\r\n','Nirmal Singh and Ashok K. Thakur (2022). Effect of Seed Pelleting with Rhizobium and Nitrogen Application on Yield and Quality of Cowpea Seeds. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 14(2): 729-735.'),(4937,'125','Assessment of Genetic Divergence for Seed Yield and Its Component Traits in a New Set of Germplasm in Finger Millet (Eleusine coracana L. Gaertn)','Mohit Sharma*, K. Madhusudan, Prashant Vasisth, Parul Gupta and V. Balar','125 Assessment of Genetic Divergence for Seed Yield and Its Component Traits in a New Set of Germplasm in Finger Millet _Eleusine coracana L. Gaertn_ Mohit Sharma.pdf','',4,'Investigation of germplasm accessions for genetic diversity is of immense importance in selection of choice of parents for hybridisation programme. An experiment was conducted to unravel the genetic diversity for seed yield and its contributing traits among a new set of 145 finger millet germplasm accessions obtained from IIMR, Hyderabad. Present study was conducted at Zonal Agriculture Research Station, V.C. Farm, Mandya in Randomized Complete Block Design with two replications. Accessions were organized into 10 clusters through Mahalanobis D2 statistics and maximum inter cluster D2 value (448.27) was observed between cluster II and VIII followed by D2 value (436.08) among cluster II and IV. Significant difference was observed among cluster means for most of the traits. Maximum percentage of contribution to the genetic divergence was displayed by 1000-seed weight (34.39%). The findings revealed that accessions 3855 (cluster II) and 4866 (cluster VIII) were more genetically diverse suggesting that these could be used in future hybridization programme to get desirable segregants. ','Genetic divergence, finger millet, Mahalanobis D2','The assessment of genetic diversity is not only important for crop improvement efforts but also for efficient management and protection of germplasm resources. Genetic divergence studies using D2 statistic showed the presence of substantial diversity. The germplasm accessions were organized into 10 diverse clusters. The maximum inter cluster D2 value (448.27) was observed between cluster II and VIII followed by D2 value (436.08) among cluster II and IV. It was observed that Cluster III i.e., accession 4516 was registered the highest seed yield plant-1, straw yield plot-1, earhead length, peduncle length, productive tillers plant-1 and plant height which revealed the possibility for immediate or further use in breeding programme. Accession 3855 (cluster II) and 4866 (cluster VIII) were found genetically more diverse indicating that these accessions could be used in future hybridization programmes to get desirable segregates.','INTRODUCTION\r\nFinger millet (Eleusine coracana L. Gaertn) is a tetraploid with chromosome number 2n=4x=36 belonging to family poaceae and commonly known as Ragi, Nagli, Nachani and Mandua. It is evolved from a cross between two diploid species, E. indica (L.) Gaertn. (AA) and E. flocifolia or E. tristachya (BB) as genome donors (Chennaveeraiah and Hiremath, 1973). It is native to Ethiopian highlands of central Africa and was domesticated into Indian subcontinent nearly 3000 years ago (Anon., 1995). The cultivation of finger millet in India under diverse agro-climatic conditions associated with natural and human selection has resulted in larger variability in crop, thus India became the secondary centre of diversity. In world, finger millet is a widely cultivated in the semi-arid areas of Eastern and Southern Africa and South Asia. It serves as staple food for a huge section of poor and farming community in many areas of India. It ranked as fourth millet in world after sorghum, pearl millet and foxtail millet, while in India it ranks third after sorghum and pearl millet in millets (Upadhaya et al., 2007). An enormous number of small farmers cultivate finger millet with limited water resources and in numerous nations this crop is frequently known as “poor people’s crop”.\r\nIn India, ragi is cultivated in an area of 1.15 million hectare with a production of 1.99 million tonne giving an average productivity of 1724 kg/ha majorly in Karnataka, Andhra Pradesh, Tamil Nadu, Maharashtra, Uttarakhand and Odisha (Anon., 2022). Karnataka is the leading producer of finger millet which contributes 68.26 % to the total area and 68.34 % to the total production of ragi cultivated in India (Anon., 2022). Ragi is acknowledged for its health advantageous effects, like antidiabetic, anti-diarrheal, antitumerogenic, anti-inflammatory, atherosclerogenic, antiulcer, antimicrobial, antioxidant propertiesand commonly known as “nutritious millet” as contains a high quantity of calcium (0.38%), protein (6%–13%), carbohydrates (65%–75%), minerals (2.5%–3.5%) and dietary fiber (18%) (Ulagnathan and Nirmalakumari, 2014). It provides 8-10 times more calcium than that of rice and wheat.\r\nAs concerned to global food security for growing population, it is mandatory to enhance the production and productivity of ragi crop. In plant breeding programme, genetic improvement through conventional breeding approaches like hybridisation, selection depends mainly on availability of diverse germplasm with presence of enormous genetic variability. The maximum utilization of any species for breeding and its adaptation to different environments depend on the level of genetic diversity it holds. Genetic distance among parents may be attributed to their differences for number of genes and their functional relations in a given environment (Nei, 1976). Evaluation of genetic divergence and relatedness among breeding materials has significant implications for the improvement of crop plants. Knowledge on genetic diversity in finger millet could help breeders and geneticists to understand the structure of germplasm, predict which combinations would produce the best offsprings and facilitate to widen the genetic basis of breeding material for selection (Singh et al., 2013). Progenies derived from diverse parents selected on basis of genetic divergence analysis are expected to show a broad spectrum of genetic variability, providing a greater scope for isolating transgressive segregant in advanced generation (Singh and Mishra, 1996) and promising heterotic effect may be observed in early generation. Mahalanobis D2 statistics-based clustering is powerful tools in quantification of genetic divergence among germplasm accessions with respect to productive per se traits. Assessment of genetic diversity in finger millet using Mahalanobis D2 statistics has previously been done by many researchers (Kadam, 2008; Karad and Patil, 2013; Mahanthesha et al., 2017; Negi et al., 2017). Therefore, the present study was undertaken to estimate the genetic divergence in a set of 145 finger milletgermplasm and explore potential to evaluate the relationship of these genotypes based on quantitative trait data. \r\nMATERIALS AND METHODS\r\nThe current investigation on assessment of genetic divergence for yield and its contributing traits in finger millet germplasm accession was carried out during kharif, 2019 at Zonal Agricultural Research Station (ZARS), V. C. Farm, Mandya represents Southern Dry Zone of Karnataka (Zone 6) which is located at 12°32’ N latitude and 76°53’ E longitude and an altitude of 716 m above MSL. The material for present study was provided by ICAR- Indian Institute of Millets Research (IIMR) Rajendranagar, Hyderabad. The experiment was carried out in a randomized complete block design (RCBD) with two replications consisted of 145 germplasm accessions along with three checks viz. VL 352, GPU 67, and MR 6. The recommended package of practices was followed during crop growth period to raise a good crop. The observations on 11 quantitative traits viz., plant height (cm), productive tillers plant-1,days to 50% flowering, days to maturity, fingers ear-1, finger length (cm), ear head length (cm), peduncle length (cm), seed yield plant-1 (g), straw yield plant-1and 1000-seed weight (g) were recorded on five randomly selected plants from each germplasm accession in each replication. Estimation of genetic divergence was done by multivariate analysis using Mahalanobis (1936). All the D2 values were calculated using Tocher’s method as described by Rao (1952). The inter and intra cluster distances were calculated by the formula given by Singh and Chaudhary (1977).\r\nRESULTS AND DISCUSSION\r\nSelection of parents based on the extent of genetic divergence has been successfully utilized in different crop species by different researchers (Sharma et al., 2021). The investigated genotypes were organized into 10 clusters using Tocher’s method (Rao, 1952). The clusters were constructed in such a way that the genotypes within a cluster had lower D2 value than those of the other diverse clusters. The distribution pattern of genotypes into diverse clusters was furnished in Table 1. Out of 10 clusters, maximum number of accessions were organized into cluster I (135 accession including 3 checks) followed by cluster V with 5 accessions. The clusters II, III, IV, VI, VII, VIII, IX, X (i.e., 8 clusters) were constituted by a single accession that revealed the presence of high degree of heterogeneity among accessions. Based on 11 quantitative traits, Euclidean genetic distances were estimated between different genotypes of finger millet. The average intra and inter cluster distances D2 values were presented in Table 2 and Fig. 1. The maximum intra cluster D2 values was recorded for cluster V (108.52) followed by cluster I (91.89). The intra cluster distances ranged from zero (solitary clusters) to 108.52 (Cluster V). Zero intra cluster distance was observed in cluster II, III, IV, VI, VII, VIII, IX and X represented by single accession. These results indicate that genotypes contributing to same clusters have a low diversity and the selection within a cluster is not considered as satisfactory. \r\nA broad range of inter cluster distance were recorded from 37.95 (among cluster IV and VI) to 448.27 (among cluster II and VIII). The maximum inter cluster D2 value (448.27) was observed between cluster II (accession 3855) and VIII (accession 4866) followed by D2 value (436.08) among cluster II and IV, revealed that maximum heterosis can be anticipated from the crosses with parents belonging to theses most diverse clusters i.e., cross among 3855 × 4866 and 3855× 6526 accessions as parents could be used further in hybridization programme for enhancing the productivity of finger millet. Similar results were reported by Kadam (2008); Kumar et al. (2010) ; Devaliya et al. (2017). Therefore, the accessions from diverse clusters mentioned above can be used as parent in future breeding programme to develop desirable segregates.\r\nCluster means of the traits: The cluster mean for all quantitative traits under investigation were illustrated in Table 3. Cluster III was recorded the highest mean values of seed yield plant-1 (18.75), straw yield plot-1 (0.89), earhead length (15.80), peduncle length (34.80), productive tillers plant-1 (5.30) and plant height (107.00). Accession from cluster VII i.e., 6754 was found the lowest mean values for seed yield plant-1 (9.06), straw yield plot-1 (0.26), earhead length (6.30), peduncle length (20.20), days to 50% flowering (58.50), finger length (4.55), finger number ear-1 (4.90) and plant height (59.70). Genotype of cluster III revealed the possibility of selecting directly one genotype that can be used for yield enhancement as it showed highest cluster mean for yield and important contributing traits. The present findings were in agreement with the findings of Kadam (2008); Kumar et al. (2010); Mahanthesha et al. (2017); Devaliya et al. (2017).\r\nRelative contribution of characters towards genetic divergence: The numbers of times that each one of the 11 characters showed up 1st rank and their corresponding per cent contribution to genetic divergence were furnished in Table 4. Among all traits under investigation, 1000 seed test weight (34.39%), straw yield plot-1(17.09%), finger length (12.21%), days to maturity (9.28%), days to 50% flowering and seed yield plant-1 (8.08%) were reported the higher contribution towards the genetic divergence. Similar results were observed by Negi et al. (2017) for days to 50% flowering, straw yield plot-1 and peduncle length. The findings for plant height and productive tillers plant-1 were in accordance with Mahanthesha et al. (2017).\r\n','Mohit Sharma, K. Madhusudan, Prashant Vasisth, Parul Gupta and V. Balar (2022). Assessment of Genetic Divergence for Seed Yield and its Component Traits in a New Set of Germplasm in Finger Millet (Eleusine coracana L. Gaertn). Biological Forum – An International Journal, 14(2): 736-740.'),(4938,'112','Mammals Diversity in the Narayan WLS, Kachchh, Gujarat','Indu Sharma','312 Mammals Diversity in the Naryan WLS, Kachchh, Gujarat Indu Sharma.pdf','',1,'Narayan Sarovar Wildlife Sanctuary is an integral and unique part of the Thar Desert ecosystem situated in the Lakhpat taluka of Kutch district in the Gujarat State, India. The exceptional ecology of the sanctuary supports diverse fauna including vulnerable and rare animal species. During present studies 29 species referable to 25 genera, 16 families and 07 orders along with conservation status have been documented. The sanctuary area is one of the major eco-sensitive zone and sustain rare animal fauna of desert ecosystem. However, area of the sanctuary is facing threats due to various factors viz. Human interference/settlement, ever increasing pilgrims due to religious reasons, industrial development and speedy vehicular traffic etc. Awareness among the locals of the area by education about the importance of fauna is the utmost tool for the conservation of the habitat restoration of the area.','Faunal, threatened, integral, eco-sensitive, pilgrim','-','INTRODUCTION \r\nNarayan Sarovar Wildlife Sanctuary is located between 23°27-23°42’N latitude and 68°30’-68°57E longitude in the westernmost part of the Country. It is a unique ecosystem in the arid zone of Great Rann of Kachchh (Kachchh, district) in the Lakhpat Taluka in the state of Gujarat. It lies in the Biotic Province-3A Kachchh Biogeographic Zone-The Indian Desert (Champion and Seth, 1968; Rodgers & Panwar 1988). The sanctuary had been notified in April, 1981 with an area of 765.79 sq. km., subsequently in August, 1995 due to various development inside and vicinity of the sanctuary region, Gujarat State reduced area of the sanctuary and at present expanse of the sanctuary is 444.23 sq. km. Elevation of the sanctuary ranges from 2.7m ASL (Tahera village) near costal area to 157m ASL (Manihal hills) in Kaniyaro Rakhal. Climate of the sanctuary is dry and very hot with average precipitation of 200-300 mm. The temperature ranges from 10 to 42oC. Rainfall is scarce and erratic. In this harsh landscape, only animals well-adapted to the desert climate can thrive, with extreme heat, high winds and frequent storms. The forest in this sanctuary is said to be the only one of its kind in India. Vegetation of the sanctuary area comprises 2.8% dense forest, 25% sparse tree, 62.2% herbaceous, 3.8% cultivation, 0.5% water bodies and 5.2% other categories. It mainly comprises thorny flora and open large patches of grasslands. It is predominated by Acacia nilotica and Acacia senegal, Euphorbia nivulia, Salvadora oleoides, Capparis drcidua, Grewia tenax and has broad distribution of Prosopis spp. The forest of the sanctuary comes under 5/DS Dry deciduous scrub, 6B/C Desert thorn forest, 6B/DS Tropical Euphorbia scrub, 6/E Gorad (Senegalia senegal) forest, 6/E Salvadora scrub, 5/E Babul (Vachellia nilotica) forest, 5/DS Dry savannah type vegetation Vachellia nilotica (Acacia nilotica)- Salvadora association and 6B/DS Zizyphus Scrub and Capparis association (Singh, 1998). \r\nSanctuary is characterized by scrub vegetation, large trees, grassland and seasonal wetlands. Further, it shares boundary with coastal areas of the Kori creek with mangrove forests. It has distinctive habitat of Savanna and is characteristic of the arid zone. These habitat/ ecological assemblage bequeath environment for rare and threatened fauna of the country. Keeping in view present studies of the sanctuary was undertaken to work out the mammalian fauna by conducting the surveys from 2018 to 2020. Pertinent literature reveals that State Fauna of Gujarat has been worked out by ZSI (Dutta, 2000). Mammals of Kachchh region have been explored by Stoliczka (1872); Singh et al., (1999) worked out the faunal diversity of the Wild Ass Sanctuary, LRK. Work on the Thar Desert area has been undertaken by Roonwal, (1983); Ghosh et al. (1996); Sharma, (2013). Faunal diversity of Kachchh Biosphere Reserve has been done by Kumar and Banyal, (2018). Further, Vertebrate diversity of Naryan Sarovar WLS has been published by GEER & GUIDE (Annonymous, 2001; Vyas, 2004; Banyal & Kumar 2020).\r\n \r\n \r\nMATERIAL AND METHODS \r\nThe sanctuary is divided into Rakhals and keeping in view all the six (Rakhals) of the sanctuary viz. Pipar, Halapar, Godhatal, Mindhiari, Bitiyari and Ratipal have been worked out to observe mammals fauna in the sanctuary from period 2018-2020. The mammalian fauna in the sanctuary has been documented as per the observation made in the field, records of forest department, local’s information, pugmarks, scats and literature.\r\nRESULT AND DISCUSSION \r\nDuring present studies 29 species referable to 25 genera, 16 families and 07 orders have been recorded from the sanctuary. Gazella bennettii (Sykes, 1831)- Chinkara is most important species of the sanctuary. They inhabits in thorn forest with Acacia nilotica, Prosopis chilensis and open land more intensively. Overall distribution pattern of the sanctuary shows that they use 81% and 76% area of the sanctuary during summer and winter respectively (GEER & GUIDE Annonymous, 2001). However, during present surveys their observation in the sanctuary were less/rare and it could be sighted (03 Nos) once in the locale. Vulpes vulpes (Linnaeus, 1758); Boselaphus tragocamelus (Pallas, 1766); Sus scrofa Linnaeus, 1758 and Canis aureus Linnaeus, 1758 were frequently recorded animals from the sanctuary. Most dominating order in the area is Carnivora (13 spp.) followed by Rodentia (05 spp.); Chiroptera, Eulipotyphla, Artiodactyla (03 spp.) and Lagomorpha, Pholidota (01 spp.). Some species viz. Cynopterus sphinx (Vahl, 1797); Canis lupus (Linnaeus, 1758); Pipistrellus coromandra Gray, 1838; Panthera paradus (Linnaeus 1758) and Manis crassicaudata Geoffroy, 1803 could not be ascertained by direct or indirect evidences and have been in incorporated in the list from the literature. Manis crassicaudata Geoffroy, 1803; Hyaena hyaena Linnaeus, 1758 and Panthera paradus (Linnaeus, 1758) are the threatened animals in the sanctuary and comes under endangered, near threatened and vulnerable category respectively as per IUCN. Further, Vulpes vulpes pusilla Blyth, 1854; Canis lupus (Linnaeus, 1758); Caracal caracal Schreber, 1776; Felis silvestris Schreber, 1777; Manis crassicaudata Geoffroy, 1803; Gazella bennettii (Sykes, 1831) comes under Schedule I as per Wild life protection Act (1972). Thus, sanctuary supports habitats to various threatened and rare animals. However, due to various anthropogenic activities sanctuary is facing several threats. The present studies on the mammals of the sanctuary will provide basic data for further studies and conservation of the habitat and faunal wealth of the sanctuary. \r\nThreats and Conservation: \r\na) As, it was claimed by the State Govt. of Gujarat that there are huge deposits of limestone, ignite, bentonite and bauxite in the sanctuary and Industrial development is necessary in the area to raise the economy of the State. Keeping in view, more than 40% area i.e. 767.79 km2 (1981) to 321 km2 (1995) had been reduced. Several industries/factories have come up adjacent to the sanctuary area. Due to the development of the industries it has been seen that metaled/pakka road network has been come up in the sanctuary. b) Road kill of various animals viz. (Varanus bengalsnsis, Mongoose; Red fox Hoplobatrachus tigerinus, Indian Bull Frog; Varanus bengalensis, Common monitor; Bungarus sindanus, Sind Krait, have been recorded during present studies. Vyas (2002) also reported that Herpetoofauna (Calotes versicolor, Brachysaura minor, Sitana ponticeriana, Chamaeleo zeylanicus, Varanus bengalensis, Eryx johnii, Ptyas mucosus, Echis carinatus) were found dead due to road kills in the way of the sanctuary area. Further, it was also stated while working in the area that the State Highway passes through the Sanctuary (approximately 32km), viz. Panandhra to Koteshwar, Koteshwar to Dolatpur via Ravereshwar Village and Dolatpar to Dayapar Village. Daily an average of total 150-200 vehicles passes only on Koteshwar to Dolatpur road. A large number of amphibian and reptilian species get killed on these roads during monsoon, which is the breeding season of most of the species. c) Vehicle traffic also increasing pollution in the area and has adverse impact on the faunal resources. Narayan Sarovar and Koteshwar are the two temples situated contiguous to the sanctuary area. These are most scared pilgrims and huge tourists/ pilgrims visit throughout the year in the area. d) There are 32 villages and 11,200 people and 14,400 live \r\nstocks residing inside the sanctuary as per census 1997-1998. Subsequently, due to degradation of the habitat owing to human intervention has also adverse impact on the sanctuary area.\r\nTherefore, due to industries and huge traffic inside the area, sanctuary is facing problem of Environmental pollution and may be serious threat in long term. It is important to mention here that the movement of the wild animals cannot be restricted in the de-notified area of the sanctuary. Thus, awareness among the people residing in the area as well as in the fringe of the sanctuary is one of the utmost tool to conserve the fauna/wild animals of the sanctuary. Through Eco-tourism camps youth of the area can be sensitized and it will also provide them job opportunities and will go long way to conserve the faunal wealth /biodiversity of the sanctuary. \r\n','Indu Sharma (2022). Mammals Diversity in the Naryan WLS, Kachchh, Gujarat. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 14(2): 1799-1802.'),(4939,'125','In silico analysis of 1H-1,2,4-Triazole, 1-octadecanoyl Revealed anti-oomycete Nature against Phytophthora infestans causing Late Blight of Potato','K. Mahendra*, S. Nakkeeran, R. Janani, N. Saranya, T. Raguchander, K. Angappan, U. Sivakumar and L. Arul\r\n','126 In silico analysis of 1H-1,2,4-Triazole, 1-octadecanoyl Revealed anti-oomycete Nature against Phytophthora infestans causing Late Blight of Potato K. Mahendra.pdf','',4,'Late blight of potato incited by Phytophthora infestans is one of the main obstacles for potato and tomato production in India. Co-evolution of pathogen with fungicides made the management of late blight a challenging task throughout the world. The main aim of this study was to elucidate the role of 1H-1,2,4-Triazole, 1-octadecanoyl, identified from the zone of inhibition of di-trophic interaction of Bacillus subtilis NM261 and Phytophthora infestans, against Phytophthora infestans target proteins. For molecular docking, the target proteins such as RxLR effector protein Avr1, Elicitin and Glucanase inhibitor protein 3 were selected based on their role in pathogenesis of P. infestans. The three-dimensional structures of target proteins were developed using software; SWISS-MODEL, Phyre2 and ROBETTA. The hypothetical crystal structures were validated using Ramachandran plot before being docked. The fungicide molecule, metalaxyl was used as a positive control. The results revealed that the biomolecule 1H-1,2,4-Triazole, 1-octadecanoyl could bound with all the target proteins and had higher binding energy values in comparison with fungicide molecule, metalaxyl. Thus, these findings confirmed the anti-oomycete nature of 1H-1,2,4-Triazole, 1-octadecanoyl against P. infestans through molecular docking. ','Phytophthora infestans, 1H-1,2,4-Triazole, 1-octadecanoyl, molecular docking, Bacillus subtilis, endophyte, GC-MS.','In silico analysis of biomolecule 1H-1,2,4-Triazole, 1-octadecanoyl with P. infestans target proteins, elicitin, RXLR effect or AVR1 and GIP3 revealed that the biomolecule could bound the target molecules with binding energy of -4.6 kcal/mol, -4.2 kcal/mol and -3.7 kcal/mol respectively. Also, the biomolecule had comparatively higher binding affinity than metalaxyl, which confirmed the anti-oomycete nature of 1H-1, 2, 4-Triazole, 1-octadecanoyl against P. infestans. Further, the validation of 1H-1, 2, 4-Triazole, 1-octadecanoyl in wet lab experiments and in field conditions are required for its effective deployment against late blight of potato.','INTRODUCTION\r\nPotato is the world largest vegetable crop with an annual production of 300 million metric tonnes (International Potato Center, 2021). However, the productivity of potato is hampered due to nutrients imbalance, diseases, pest and nematodes. Among the major diseases in potato, late blight caused by an oomycete, P. infestans is recognized as one of the most widespread and destructive disease, and a major production constraint to potato worldwide. In this situation, several approaches have been made to control the late blight of potato. So far there was no feasible strategies currently available to completely protect these plants against this deadly menace. Chemical fungicide-based disease control leads to higher amount of fungicide intake which results in resistant to microbial degradation, eventually the development of resistance in the pathogen (Fernández-Ortuño et al., 2006). \r\nAzoxystrobin and biomolecule, chaetoglobosin applied potato plants showed the increased resistance towards late blight of potato pathogen, P. infestans by increasing the levels of peroxidase, poly phenol oxidase and superoxide dismutase (Srinivasan et al., 2016). In this juncture, microbial biocontrol agents can pave the way for the biological control of plant diseases through their bioactive secondary metabolites. Recent advances in molecular modelling and docking would allow to find out the potential anti-oomycete biomolecules of microbial origin and it will help toannotate potential protein target sequences of the P. infestans that play a key role in the pathogenicity resulting in the suppression of late blight pathogen (Isyaku et al., 2020). Considering the significance, in silico analysis was carried out to dock the biomolecule, 1H-1,2,4-Triazole, 1-octadecanoyl against three target proteins of P. infestans to discover the anti-oomycete action.\r\nMATERIALS AND METHODS\r\nIdentification of protein targets of P. infestans and molecular modelling: The three target proteins of P. infestans viz, RxLR effector protein Avr1, Elicitin and Glucanase inhibitor protein 3 were selected based on their role in pathogenesis. The amino acid sequences were retrieved from the online database UniProt. As there is no crystal structure of the proteins was available in Protein Data Bank Database, we went for the modelling of 3D structure of the target proteins using SWISS-MODEL (Method: Rigid-body assembly), Phyre2 (Method: Profile based alignment), and ROBETTA (Meta server, https://robetta.bakerlab.org/) based on query coverage performance and percentage identity of the proteins, which was obtained from BLASTp search.\r\nStructure Validation: The quality of the modelled protein structure was assessed through Ramachandran plot of the PROCHECK tool from the Structural Analysis and Verification Server (SAVES, Meta server, https://saves.mbi.ucla.edu/) to understand the phi and psi scatter of amino acid residues. The energy minimization for proteins and loop building for residues in disallowed regions were performed using Swiss PDB Viewer.\r\nLigand preparation and analysis: Two ligand molecules viz, 1H-1,2,4-Triazole, 1-octadecanoyl (biomolecule identified from zone of inhibition during interaction of Bacillus subtilis NM261 and P. infestans) and metalaxyl (reference ligand molecule)were retrieved from the Pub Chem database in Structure Data File (SDF) format. OpenBabel software (O\'Boyle et al., 2011) was used to convert compounds from SDF to Protein Data Bank (PDB) file format.\r\nVirtual screening and molecular docking: For performing molecular screening, the Auto Dock Vina module in PyRx 0.8 was used (Dallakyan and Olson, 2015). PyRx was used to identify the potential compound inhibitors against the target proteins of P. infestans. The energy minimization process was achieved via the field of universal force of optimization process with 200 steps. The Computed Atlas Topography of Proteins CASTp 3.0 server was used to find binding site pockets for the targets (Tian et al., 2018). Docked conformations of protein-ligand complexes were imported into BIOVIA Discovery studio client 2021. Interactions that are observed are logged and exported as photographs. The H-bond surface receptor was used to highlight the ligand-binding site. Different colours were assigned to the receptor, ligand, and interacting atoms to distinguish them.\r\n\r\nRESULTS AND DISCUSSION\r\nCrystal structures of P. infestans protein targets: The crystal structures of RxLR effector protein Avr1, Elicitin and Glucanase inhibitor protein 3 was modelled using SWISS, Phyre2 and ROBETTA software, respectively (Fig. 1).\r\nMolecular docking: Molecular docking results revealed that the biomolecule 1H-1,2,4-Triazole, 1-octadecanoyl was effectively bound with all the target sites of P. infestans used in this study (Fig. 2). The binding energy values, amino acid interactions and type of bonding were represented in Table 1. Plant pathogens frequently use a variety of effectors to aid infection. Elicitins are found in oomycetes, most notably in the species of Phytophthora and Pythium. They serve an important biological process in oomycetes as sterol transporters. The highest binding affinity (-4.6 kcal/mol) of 1H-1,2,4-Triazole, 1-octadecanoyl with elicitin was obtained. By binding the biomolecule 1H-1,2,4-Triazole, 1-octadecanoyl with elicitin could inhibit the sterol transport from plants which affect the life cycle of P. infestans (Ponchet et al., 1999). Numerous RXLR effectors are secreted by P. infestans, which alter host defence and therefore pave the way for effective invasion. Colonization and callous deposition in host plants are inhibited by RXLR effector AVR1, a virulence factor. The binding energy of 1H-1,2,4-Triazole, 1-octadecanoyl with RXLR effector protein Avr1 was-4.2 kcal/mol, could block the functions of RXLR in host tissues like colonization of P. infestans (Du et al., 2015). Glucanase inhibitor proteins (GIP) which are secreted by P. infestans, bind and block the action of plant extracellular endo-1,3-glucanases during the invasion of host plants. In the present study, the biomolecule 1H-1,2,4-Triazole, 1-octadecanoyl was able to bound with the glucanase inhibitor protein 3 with binding energy of -3.7 kcal/mol, which could affect the function of GIP and enables the action of plant glucanase enzymes on P. infestans cell wall (Damasceno et al., 2008). Interestingly, the biomolecule 1H-1,2,4-Triazole, 1-octadecanoyl had comparatively higher binding affinity to elicitin, RXLR effector AVR1 and GIP3 than the positive control, metalaxyl, an oomycete fungicide molecule (Fig. 3). Thus, these findings provided a clearer understanding of the role of 1H-1,2,4-Triazole, 1-octadecanoyl in the control of P. infestans.\r\n','K. Mahendra, S. Nakkeeran, R. Janani, N. Saranya, T. Raguchander, K. Angappan, U. Sivakumar and L. Arul (2022). In silico analysis of 1H-1,2,4-Triazole, 1-octadecanoyl Revealed anti-oomycete Nature against Phytophthora infestans causing Late Blight of Potato. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 14(2): 741-745.'),(4940,'125','Genetic Variability among B & R Lines on milo and maldandi Cytoplasm in rabi Sorghum [Sorghum bicolor (L.) Moench]','Lokesh Kumar Verma* and B. D. Biradar','121 Genetic Variability among B & R Lines on milo and maldandi Cytoplasm in rabi Sorghum [Sorghum bicolor _L._ Moench] Lokesh Kumar Verma.pdf','',1,'The genetic study was conducted among 68 genotypes comprising of restorers and maintainers on milo and maldandi cytoplasm. Among the lines, IS 12735, DSMR-8, IS 33353 and IS 24175 exhibited full restoration on milo and DSMR-4 & DSMR-8 on maldandi. The lines viz., IS 30383, IS 29335, IS 29914, IS 8012 and IS 12308 exhibited perfect maintainer reaction on both milo & maldandi. High heritability and genetic advance were observed for most of the traits. G × E interaction was also found to be high for the majority of the traits. A high amount of genetic variability among the population indicated an increased opportunity for the selection of restorers, maintainers as the variation is heritable. These results together would help for the selection of diverse restorers and maintainers on milo and maldandi male sterile sources.','Milo, Maldandi, Rabi, Heritability, Genetic advance, Pooled analysis','Sorghum is one of the major important cereal crops, for millions of people across nations. The studied genotypes were significantly different for grain yield and yield contributing traits. Environmental conditions of rabi-2017 favoured most of the gneotypes. n On milo, the restores viz., IS 12735, DSMR-8, IS 33353 and IS 24175 while on the maldandi the restorers viz., DSMR-8 and DSMR-4 found to be productive. Whereas, among the maintainers IS 30383, IS 29335, IS 29914, IS 8012, and IS 12308 were found superior for grain yield and yield contributing traits across years. The restorers and maintainers can be exploited for widen the diversity in male sterile lines. A high amount of genetic variability among the population indicated an increased opportunity for the selection of restorers, maintainers as the variation is a heritable one. ','INTRODUCTION\r\nSorghum [Sorghum bicolor (L.) Moench] is one of the important cereal crop cultivated globally for food, fodder, feed and fuel. It ranks fifth after wheat, rice, maize, and barley in area and production. Due to the rich nutritional profile, it was marked as ‘Nutritional Grain’ (Aruna et al., 2020). The world’s sorghum production of 57.50 million tonnes comes from the area of 40.28 m ha with the productivity of 1.43 tonnes per hectare during 2019–2020 (FAOSTAT 2020). One of the saturation in productivity is due to limited genetic diversity among B & R, lines in the development of hybrids. This is mainly due to the single source of male sterility system viz., milo, which restricts nuclear diversity among B & R apart from creating cytoplasmic uniformity among hybrids. To overcome this, it is required to introduce diverse sterility systems (A2, A3, maldandi, G1 and VZM, etc.) and potential restorers on these sources. Keeping these things in view, 68 diverse lines were selected from the mini core on sorghum received from ICRISAT, Patencheru and studied for the genetic variability of 19 quantitative traits. \r\nMATERIALS AND METHODS \r\nThe experimental material consisted of 68 B & R lines on milo and maldandi cytoplasms, to study the variability, heritability, and genetic advance for the nineteen traits. The experiment was conducted in Complete Randomized Block Design with two replications. Each genotype was sown in two rows of 3 m at Botany garden, Department of Genetics and Plant Breeding, University of Agricultural Sciences, Dharwad in rabi 2017 and 2018. All recommended agronomic packages of practices were followed to raise a good crop expression. Observations on traits, namely, days to 50 % flowering, peduncle length (cm), panicle length (cm), panicle breadth (mm), primaries per panicle, whorls per panicle, leaves per plant, nodes per plant, plant height (cm), stem girth (mm), panicle weight per plant (g), grain yield per plant (g), test weight (g), grains per panicle, 1000 grains volume (cc), grain density, grain length (mm), grain width (mm) and grain thickness, recorded on randomly selected five competent plants in each replication. The replication-wise mean values from both years were subjected to statistical analysis (Snedecor and Cochran, 1967). Pooled analysis across years was carried out by following Comstock and Robinson\'s (1952). The GCV and PCV were estimated as per the procedure suggested by Burton and De Vane (1953). Heritability in the broad sense was estimated as per the procedure given by Hanson et al., 1956. Genetic advance as percent of the mean was categorized as given by Johnson et al., 1955.\r\nRESULTS AND DISCUSSION\r\nHighly significant differences between genotypes for all the studied traits were observed in both years. The pooled ANOVA for combined analysis over two years was estimated. The results showed significant differences between the two years for almost all the traits under study except for grain width, plant height, stem girth, and panicle weight. A similar result was obtained by jimmy et al. (2017), where plant height was observed as non-significant. The G x E interaction was also highly significant for almost all the traits which show differential response and differential performance of the genotypes in different environments (year). This outcome agrees with the findings of (Almeida et al., 2014) The results of pooled variance towards grain yield were due to genotypes (67.91) followed by G × E interaction (23.17), and a small proportion was contributed by the years. The treatments exhibited highly significant differences for all the traits. \r\nGenotype x Environment was found to be significant for all the studied traits except for nodes per plant, stem girth, and grain width The significant differences of these traits reveal inconsistencies in the performances of sorghum genotypes for these traits over the years environments. The non-significant traits viz., nodes per plant, stem girth, and grain width reveal their consistent performance in both years.\r\nGeneral and relative performance of the genotypes\r\nIndividual year\'s mean. The year 2017 was observed favorable for grain yield and panicle weight per plant with mean values of 63.41 g and 73.85 g per plant, respectively, indicating that the year 2017 was more favorable for sorghum production. \r\nPooled data. The mean grain yield over the two years was 59.75 g per plant, with genotype mean grain yield ranging from 28.15 g (IS 24492) to 112.81 g (PKV Kranti), indicating a wide difference in yield potential across two years. The identified restorers viz., IS 12735, DSMR-8, IS 33353 and IS 24175 were also found to be superior for grain yield and yield attributes. The lines viz., IS 30383, IS 29335, IS 29914, IS 8012 and IS 12308 recorded as perfect maintainers on both milo and maldandi. These maintainers also exhibited superiority for yield and yield contributing traits among identified maintainers. The identified restorers and maintainers can be useful for the diversification of the nuclear base. The identified maintainers having high mean values for grain yield and yield contributing traits along with the short sature like, IS 30383 (147.01 cm) and IS 29335 (162.80 cm) were most suited for conversion into new male sterile lines. By pooling all the maintainers as well as restorers, new more diverged, and productive maintainers and restorers can be exploited.\r\nPhenotypic and genotypic variances. High GCV and PCV were recorded for the traits viz., panicle length, panicle weight, grain yield, grains per panicle, 1000 grain volume in the year 2017, the year 2018 and for pooled analysis as well (Table 2). Similar outcomes reported by Nirosh et al. (2021). For most of the traits like peduncle length, primaries per panicle, grain length and grain thickness the high and moderate GCV and PCV were recorded in the year 2017 and across years. However, during the year 2018, these estimates were found to be moderate to low.\r\nHeritability and genetic advance. All the traits exhibited a high level of broad sense heritability in the pooled data and the years 2017 & 2018. If a trait has high heritability, selection for such traits could be easy, and the selection of genotypes based on grain yield and contributing traits would be sufficient to increase the yield in sorghum. Ranjith et al. (2018) also recorded high heritability for grain yield, test weight, and plant height. The density of the seeds exhibited low GCV across the years and in the pooled analysis as well. It shows that the grain density is under the strong influence of the environment. Whorls per panicle and stem girth were also influenced by the environments as they exhibited low GCV, and selection for these traits would not be much effective.\r\nAll the traits exhibited high genetic advance across the year and for pooled analysis as well, except for days to 50 % flowering, and grain density in the year 2017, days to 50 % flowering, whorls per panicle, stem girth, grain density, grain length, grain width and grain thickness in the year 2018 and stem girth and grain density for pooled analysis, which showed a moderate level of genetic advance. The trait, stem girth was found to be low for genetic advance in the year 2017. The effectiveness of selection depends upon genetic advance over a mean (GAM) of the trait selected along with high heritability. All the traits except stem girth and grain density showed high heritability along with high GAM in pooled data. A similar higher estimates of GAM for grain yield per plant, plant height, test weight and panicle length was reported by Gebregergs et al. (2020). The stem girth showed moderate heritability and low GAM, whereas grain density exhibited moderate heritability and moderate GAM. Chalachew et al. (2019) also observed similar findings for days to flowering and grain yield. High heritability with high GAM indicates the control of additive genes, and early selection may be effective for these characters. It is evident that high GCV along with high heritability and genetic advance is an effective selection criterion. Based on the results of the present study, the traits, namely, peduncle length, panicle length, primaries per panicle, leaves per plant, panicle weight, grain yield, test weight, grains per panicle and 1000 grain volume noticed with high GCV, high heritability and high GAM in the pooled analysis. \r\nHowever, days to 50 % flowering, panicle breadth, whorls per panicle, nodes per plant, plant height, grain length, grain width, and grain thickness exhibited moderate GCV along with high heritability and GAM. These are the most important traits for effective selection in sorghum, as indicated by this study. Heritability in a broad sense was observed high by Chalachew and Semahegn (2020) for all important quantitative traits. High GAM was revealed by plant height, panicle length, primaries per panicle, grain yield, test weight, seed volume, grain length, grain width, and grain thickness. This indicates that early selection for these traits will enhance the grain yield. The traits possessing low genetic advance with high or moderate heritability like stem girth in this study indicated non-additive gene action; thus, a simple selection procedure in early segregating generations will not be much effective for these traits. \r\n','Lokesh Kumar Verma and B. D. Biradar (2022). Genetic Variability Among B & R Lines on milo and maldandi Cytoplasm in rabi Sorghum [Sorghum bicolor (L.) Moench]. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 14(2): 708-711.'),(4941,'125','Distribution, Host Range, Damage Potential, Bioecology and Management of Chilo partellus (Swinhoe): A Review','Ashok Kumar Sau*, K. Chandrakumara, Aditya K. Tanwar and Mukesh K. Dhillon','122 Distribution, Host Range, Damage Potential, Bioecology and Management of Chilo partellus _Swinhoe_ A Review Ashok Kumar Sau.pdf','',1,'In natural and agro-ecosystem plants remain exposed to a wide range of biotic stresses, among which ubiquitous prevalence of insect herbivores is of prime importance. Chilo partellus considered to be one of the most important and widely distributed insect pests of maize and sorghum in Asia and Africa. It has good thermal plasticity which helps to adapt in new geographical areas of different environments, and spreading to new countries as invasive pest where it was previously not found. Its major host plant maize, one of the important cereal crops is grown across the globe, it can survive on wide range of cultivated and wild species of poaceae family so there is a risk of invasion into new areas because of adaptive trait in C. partellus. Facultative Diapause is an important adaptive trait in C. partellus for survival in adverse environmental condition. There is substantial role of food along with other abiotic factors such as temperature and photoperiod, in induction of diapause in C. partellus. All these favourable factors may help the C. partellus to invade, survive and dominate in new agroecosystems. Furthermore, its cryptic nature of feeding protects it from direct exposure to chemical pesticide and natural enemies. Maize is one of the important cereal crops occupying third rank globally in area and production next to rice and wheat. So, for global food security, sustainable management of C. partellus should be done.','Cereal stem borer, Chilo partellus, Diapause, Bio-ecology, Management','The C. partellus is economically harmful for maize and sorghum agro-ecosystems worldwide, and has potential to spread in newer areas. Cryptic nature of feeding makes it difficult to manage through even chemical control, and there is a need to identify newer insecticide molecules with different mode of action, efficient biocontrol agents adapted to changing climatic conditions and stale sources of resistance in host crops for the management of C. partellus and sustainable crop production. The greater understanding on diapause physiology and associated reproductive fitness will also help in mapping the seasonal distribution patterns and off-season survival. Gene expression patterns linked with different phases of diapause, and insecticide action also need to be studied keeping in mind the presence of different biotypes.','INTRODUCTION\r\nChilo partellus (Swinhoe) commonly known as spotted stem borer, is a major pest of maize and sorghum in Asia and Africa. By invading to new areas, it hampers maize production worldwide (Kfir et al., 2002). In this review paper we are attempting to synthesize the information available on various aspects of C. partellus which could help in sustainable management of this pest and ensure global food security.\r\nOrigin and distribution. The C. partellus is native to Asia and from there it spread into eastern Africa in early 1930s (Tams, 1932) since than it has continuously expanded its presence in the warm, low-altitude regions of eastern and southern Africa (Kfir, 1997). In Asia it has widely distributed into India, Bangladesh, Cambodia, Indonesia, Pakistan, Sri Lanka, Thailand, Vietnam, Yemen, Afghanistan, Iran, and Laos, (Harris 1990). Based on biological attributes and biochemical profiles of C. partellus population from different locations of India, it was found that population from Hisar, Hyderabad, Parbhani and Coimbatore were distinct from each other, which indicated presence of four biotypes of C. partellus in India (Dhillon et al., 2021). In Africa, it was first time reported from Malawi (Tams, 1932), and subsequently it has spread to Ethiopia, Kenya, South Africa, Botswana, Comoros Islands, Eritrea, Lesotho, Mozambique, Somalia, Sudan, Swaziland, Tanzania, Uganda, Zambia and Zimbabwe (Kfir et al., 2002; Sylvain et al., 2015). In Africa, C. partellus has proven to be an efficient colonizer, and it seems to be displacing the indigenous stem borers of sorghum and maize like Busseola fusca (Lepidoptera: Noctuidae) by rapidly expanding its geographical ranges (Kfir, 1997; Guofa et al. 2001; Ong’amo et al. 2006b). One of the possible reasons behind this displacement and expansion could be its three-week shorter life cycle and one-month shorter diapause period than B. fusca which gives it a further competitive advantage because of its higher potential rate of increase (Kfir, 1997; Dejen et al. 2014). Recently, it has also been reported from the moderately drier regions of the Mediterranean Basin in Turkey (Bayram and Tong˘a 2015) and Israel (Ben-Yakir et al. 2013). So, it has widely distributed in Asia and Africa, and also spread to the Mediterranean region. Furthermore, it has been predicted that there is substantial invasion risk of C. partellus to cropping areas in the Americas, China, Europe, Australia, New Zealand and West Africa by using CLIMEX model (Yonow et al., 2017). So, it should be a pest of major concern to bio-security organisations in these uninvaded regions, and countries those are adjacent to currently infested regions in Africa and Asia.\r\nBiology and behaviour on different hosts. Study on biological performance of C. partellus on six different maize genotypes in Northern India found that larval period, larval survival, pupal period, pupal weight, adult emergence and fecundity of 20-22 days, 51-78%, 5-6 days, 63-92 mg/pupae, 30-52%, and 192-554 eggs/female respectively (Bhoi et al., 2017). It was reported that temperature, relative humidity (RH) and their interaction have significantly affected the developmental time, adult longevity and fecundity of the pest where developmental time was inversely related to temperature (Tamiru et al., 2012). Biological study of C. partellus on six landraces and one hybrid variety of maize shows that larval preference was lower for the landraces compared to hybrid and significantly lower larval survival in landraces (32%) compared to hybrid maize (54%). Adult female of C. partellus preferred non-exposed maize landraces for subsequent oviposition which deters further colonisation by the herbivore, while in case of hybrid, there was no difference in oviposition preference (Mutyambai et al., 2014) which shows different behavioural and physiological responses of C. partellus to different maize varieties. Study on the suitability of wild gramineous plants as hosts of C. partellus in comparison to a maize variety show significantly higher feeding and assimilation of food by larvae fed on maize than wild host. Also, larval growth and development were significantly faster on maize than wild host. However, there were no significant differences in oviposition preference but larval arrest and dispersal studies shows that from 77% to 88% first instar larvae were not recovered on wild host plant after three days (Mohamed et al., 2004). Finding on mating among different age male and female adults of C. partellus shows that the increasing age of C. partellus females at the time of mating greatly reduces the hatchability and fecundity of eggs, and mating in early age reduced the longevity of males and females (Dhillon et al., 2019b). Changing climatic scenario has implications for bio-ecology and population dynamics in C. partellus. In a diapause experiencing population of C. partellus, reduction in longevity, egg viability and fecundity were recorded which ultimately leads to a reduction in population growth parameters, but due to global warming if it does not enter in diapause than its population may increase faster (Dhillon and Hasan, 2018).\r\nHost range and nature of damage in different crops. The spotted stemborer, C. partellus is a generalist herbivore and feeds on several species of cultivated and wild plants of Poaceae family (Ong’amo et al., 2006a; Moolman et al., 2014). It is the most damaging Lepidopteran pest of maize in Asia, eastern and southern Africa (Kfir et al., 2002), causing significant losses in grain yields. Several reports confirm that the C. partellus is possibly a serious pest of maize and sorghum in Asia (Doharey, 1971; Ahad et al., 2008; Dang and Harris 1990) and the most severe insect pest of maize and sorghum in eastern and southern Africa (Harris, 1990; Bate et al., 1991; Sylvain et al., 2015). It has also been described as a pest of rice (Harris, 1990), sugarcane (Assefa et al., 2010, Harris, 1990), and pearl millet (Harris, 1990). The presence, abundance and intensity of infestation by C. partellus is influenced by both abiotic and biotic factors in different geographical region (Dhillon et al., 2017). The newly emerged larvae of C. partellus prefers to feed on young leaves whorls causing scars and holes; then move towards growing point of plant and bore in the central whorl (Kfir et al. , 2002), which causes a characteristic symptom known as “dead-heart”. However, the older larvae tunnel extensively in maize stem which causes lodging and interference with the grain formation (Kfir et al., 2002).\r\nDamage parameters and yield loss. Generally, understanding the relationship between damage parameters (foliar lesions, dead heart and stem tunnelling) and corresponding yield loss elucidates the most important yield reducing parameters. In case of C. partellus reduction in number of ears harvested in maize due to larval damage was primary cause of yield reduction. In a study it was found that the combined effect of ears and stem tunnelling accounted for 34-43% yield reduction while other traits cause less than 2% reduction (Ajala and Saxena 1994). It is one of the major biotic limiting factors of maize and sorghum productivity (Pingali and Pandey 2001; James, 2003). The C. partellus cause 18-25% yield losses in maize and sorghum under diverse agroclimatic conditions in Asia and Africa (Dhaliwal et al., 2015). The Average avoidable yield losses caused by C. partellus were reported to be 13% to maize crop sown in month of June which calculated based on protection provided with chemical spray in Punjab, India (Dhaliwal et al., 2018). The yield loss caused by C. partellus in Nepal was estimated around 28% in unprotected maize as compared to protected maize (Sharma and Gautam 2010). \r\nDiapause strategy in Chilo partellus: Hibernation and aestivation. Diapause is a genetically determined adaptive scheme of insects to survive during predictable adverse environmental conditions when the resources needed for development, reproduction and population growth are lacking. It is arrest in development accompanied by suppressed metabolism and eventually lifting the arrest to resume development or reproduction (Denlinger, 2002). It is a seasonal dormancy and its expression is regulated by different environmental factors that precede and reliably foresee the arrival of unfavourable conditions for insect. It also helps the insects to match the activity cycles with the onset of optimum climatic conditions thus ensuring effective resource utilization (Yocum et al., 2011). It is characterized by behavioral inactivity, slowing growth, and morphogenesis and reproductive functions arrest (Danks, 1987). During diapause normal progression of development is abruptly brought to a halt for many months and not to be resumed until favourable condition come. The capacity for diapause is widespread among insects that has contributed to their survival by allowing them to exploit seasonal resources and escape the harsh environmental conditions (Denlinger, 2002). The key feature of C. partellus bioecology is the arrangement of the facultative type of diapause (Dhillon and Hasan 2017a; Kfir et al., 2002; Ofomata et al., 1999). Full grown larvae of C. partellus enter diapause inside the old stems or stubbles which usually occur during host plant maturity periods (Ofomata et al., 1999). In maize and sorghum agro-ecosystem, C. partellus have a dormancy duration of 45–50 days before termination of true diapause that matches its activity cycles with favourable conditions, thus ensuring effective resource utilization (Dhillon & Hasan, 2017a; Dhillon et al., 2017). Larvae of C. partellus undergo estivation (summer diapause) under South parts of India (Trehan & Butani 1949). Dhillon et al. (2019a) concluded that the precise combination of temperature and photoperiod and food quality were essential for estivation in C. partellus and found that 32°C + 13L:11D along with dry food were optimum conditions for estivation induction in the laboratory.\r\nGeneral stages of diapause and its regulation. The insect undergoing diapause passes through a sequence of physiological events including diapause induction, maintenance, termination, and post-diapause development. Induction phase occurs when cues from the environment are sensed. During maintenance phase, the endogenous developmental arrest persists where metabolic rate is relatively low and constant. In termination phase Specific changes in environmental conditions cause decrease the intensity of diapause to its minimum level. (Kostal, 2006). In photosensitive phase, insects program their diapause based on sensitivity to daylength usually far in advance of the actual expression of diapause stage. The basic requirement is to distinguish the long days from short days (a clock) and to count the number of short days that have occurred (a counter). This temporal segregation has evolved to offer a period of preparation for diapause and events that occur during this phase are very important because failure to adequately prepare for diapause will reduce the chances of survival after the diapause. This period may enable the diapause-destined insect to locate a suitable place, sequestration of additional fat reserves (Adedokun and Denlinger 1985), deposition of extra layers of hydrocarbons for waterproofing the cuticle (Yoder et al., 1992), or the synthesis of storage proteins (Chippendale, 1988). These additional fat and protein serve the nutritional requirement during diapause and source for the extensive tissue development that occurs immediately following diapause termination. At attaining the correct stage for diapause, the insect arrests its development and switches on the new metabolic machinery that will sustain it during metabolic suppression, and then at correct time it decides to resume development (Denlinger, 2002). Diapause is genetically determined, with the neuro-hormonal system as mediator. It is regulated by combination of environmental, hormonal and molecular regulation. (Denlinger, 2002). Degree of dominance estimates in C. partellus shown that diapause, developmental and morphometric traits are governed by over dominance gene effects, and mainly depend on parental diapause history (Dhillon et al., 2020).\r\nDiapause induction and termination factors. It is important to understand the influence of different factors on different diapause phases for predicting the onset and termination of diapause in the field. Among the different environmental factors, temperature and photoperiod are viewed as the key environmental factors which contribute in the developmental biology of arthropods (Haghani et al., 2007). Moreover, temperature and photoperiod play a very important role in deciding the type of diapause either hibernation or aestivation (Dhillon et al., 2017, 2019a; Dhillon and Hasan, 2017b). Each phase of diapause is strongly affected by photoperiod and temperature (Tauber et al., 1987; Danks, 1987). Different combination of these factors affects the seasonal adaptation, regulate the ecological, behavioral and physiological activities in insects (Roy et al., 2002). Scheltes (1978) investigated three plant factors; water, soluble sugar and crude protein in relation to diapause and found that diapause could be \"artificially\" induced in non-diapause larvae by introducing it into aged maize stems. The rice stem borer, Chilo suppressalis (Walker) as fully grown larvae enters facultative diapause in response to short-day conditions. It was found that the third instar of larvae was most sensitive to the photoperiod, and night length played an essential role in the initiation of diapause (Xiao et al., 2010). The seasonal changes together with host plant maturity enforces North Indian C. partellus population larvae to undergo hibernation, where as in South India it enters aestivation (Dhillon and Hasan 2017a).\r\nGenerally, termination of diapause is affected by a combination of high temperature and a long day photoperiod. Long days accelerated pupation (upto 16 hr daylength), and provision of artificial diet not have any effect but water decreased the time to pupation. Under laboratory condition of 28o C temperature, 16 h daylength and availability of water, C. partellus diapausing larvae pupated in about 9 days by termination of diapause (Kfir, 1993).\r\nBiochemical, Morphological and biological changes during diapauses. Various changes such as suppression of development and reproductive function, and increase in metabolic reserves could occur when insect undergoes diapause (Irwin and Lee 2000; Jiang et al., 2010). Studies to measure the changes in amino acid and lipophilic profiles of C. partellus larvae show higher amounts of amino acids (namely; serine, glycine, histidine, arginine, proline, tyrosine, and methionine) in estivation, while lower in hibernation as compared to non-diapause larvae. The lipophilic compounds also have variability in hibernation and estivation with non-diapausing stage (Tanwar et al., 2021). Larvae of C. partellus totally lack cuticular pigmentations, markings, spots, and asetose tubercle during diapause stage. Intermediate of non-diapausing and diapausing larvae are less conspicuously pigmented (Dhillon & Hasan 2017a). Longer the larvae remained in diapause, the lighter in weight the emerging moths were, with fewer eggs and oocytes (Kfir, 1991). A significant decrease in body weight, size and head capsule width in diapause larvae were reported, with smaller pupal and adult sizes (Dhillon & Hasan 2017a). During diapause, larvae of C. partellus progressively decreased in weight at the rate of 4.5 mg per week, lost 50% of their initial body mass and had up to seven stationary moults, became less active and lost pigmentation (Kfir, 1991).\r\n\r\nMANAGEMENT OF Chilo partellus\r\nEIL in maize. The economic injury level (EIL) of C. partellus on maize at four different stages of crop growth stages were calculated in India. EIL was found to increase as the age of crop infestation increases, being low at 12 and 17days old plants (1.24 and 1.38 larvae/plant) but higher on 22 and 27days old plants (2.56 and 3.36 larvae/plant) (Sharma and Sharma 1987). In Kenya EIL was calculated on 20, 40 and 60days old maize plant by releasing varying density of C. partellus larvae and it was found to 3.2 and 3.9 larvae/ plant for 20 and 40 days old plants, respectively. Maximum yield reduction and stalk damage reported to the 20-day old crop, while effect on yield was insignificant for the 60-day old crop (Reddy and Sum, 1991).\r\nRole of host plant resistance and genetic engineering. Variation in performance and abundance of herbivorous insects is attributed to variation in host plant quality, being determined by nutritional composition, allelochemistry and specific anatomical features. In non-preference type mechanisms of resistance, plants possess characteristics which inhibit insect responses such as orientation, feeding, and ovipositional, while antibiosis mechanisms of plants would involve the metabolic responses of plant to insect such as provide inadequate nutrients or metabolic inhibitors to cause failure of larval development, survival, egg production, and hatching of the eggs (Kumar, 1997). Considerable genetic variability amongst the sorghum genotypes for different types of damage caused by C. partellus were reported and study also found that criteria such as resistance to leaf feeding, deadheart formation, stem tunnelling and/or compensation in grain yield can be selected for use in sorghum improvement (Singh et al., 2012). Significant genetic difference among landraces in terms of their growth, tolerance, and constitutive resistance to C. partellus were reported in twenty Sorghum bicolor landraces from the tropics, suggesting that it is possible to enhance both tolerance and resistance defence strategies in S. bicolor to C. partellus. Study on resistance of maize to C. partellus found that selected genotypes (CPM 2, CPM 8, CPM 13, CPM 15 and CPM 18) having variable morphological traits (leaf glossiness, anthocyanin pigmentation and seedling vigor), had significantly lower dead-hearts and more adverse effects on biological parameters of insect compared to the resistant check (CML 334) which pooled together shows antibiosis mechanism of resistance (Dhillon and Chaudhary 2015). Certain amino and fatty acids play essential role in plant–herbivore interactions and induction of antibiotic defence in plant to herbivore. Study on amino acid profiling suggests that Cystine and Proline contents in sorghum seedlings, and Alanine, Cystine, Glycine, and Proline contents in C. partellus larvae have significant and negative association, and contribute to explain >90% variability in antibiosis to C. partellus (Dhillon and Kumar 2017). The fatty acids such as myristic acid, methyl 3-methoxytetradecanoate, palmitic acid, stearic acid and squalene found in both sorghum plant and C. partellus, could be used as biomarkers for C. partellus interactions (Dhillon and Kumar 2020). In maize plant, amino acids viz., aspartic acid, glycine, histidine, lysine, phenylalanine, proline, and serine; and the fatty acid, stearic acid showed significant association with various development parameters against C. partellus, could be used as biomarkers to identify resistant maize genotypes (Yele et al., 2021). It was reported that significantly poor survival and development of C. partellus on white and yellow kernel maize genotypes than that on QPM and sweet corn genotypes which shows their resistance to spotted stem borer (Yele et al., 2019).\r\nTransgenic Bt maize can help to manage several species of Lepidopteran stem borers including C. partellus (Tefera et al., 2016; Tende et al., 2010). Study in Uganda shows that Bt maize (MON810) with Cry1Ab was protected against leaf damage and limited stem borer entry into maize stems. It was also reported to be effective in controlling C. partellus, also 30–80% higher yield than non Bt hybrids. In India, Bt maize is not allowed to be cultivated. Transgenic sorghum plants expressing a synthetic cry1Ac gene under control of a wound-inducible promoter from the maize protease inhibitor gene (mpiC1) found up to 60% reduction in leaf damage, 40% larval mortality, with the surviving larvae showing a 36% weight reduction over those fed on control plants (Girijashankar et al., 2005).\r\nBehavioral management: ecological engineering. Farming systems for pest control based on the simultaneous stimulo-deterrent diversionary strategy or called push–pull system used for pest management. A prominent example is from sub-Saharan Africa for smallholder farming cereal production against lepidopterous stem borers. (Pickett et al., 2014). Napier grass (Pennisetum purpureum) used as animal fodder having potential role as a trap crop in the management of C. partellus through habitat manipulation. It was reported that gravid female moths preferentially chose Napier grass for oviposition over a susceptible maize cultivar. Larval survival was significantly lower (about 10%) on the majority of the Napier grass varieties, also larval development took 2 more weeks (Khan et al., 2006). Napier grass were more preferred by the borer moths for oviposition and allowed minimal survival of the larvae which also desirable for conservation of natural enemies. In a recent study Brachiaria grass (Poaceae) were also reported as a trap crop for C. partellus. The female prefers brachiaria plants over maize for oviposition and brachiaria plants have negative effects on subsequent larval survival and development. No larvae survived on brachiaria plant tissue more than 5 days, while 79% of the larvae survived on maize (Cheruiyot et al., 2018). This technique is even more efficient in case of C. partellus due to specific host plant selection behaviour of this insect which increase the effectiveness of a trap crop. Here, female moths have oviposition preference for napier grass which is not a good food for larvae, but larvae did not have any clear behaviour to reject it. So, Napier grass is beneficial for trap cropping in management of this pest, (Midega et al., 2011). Further, it was reported that predation rates of the C. partellus eggs were significantly higher in the ‘push – pull’ than in the maize monocrop plots which so the biocontrol of this pest on maize crop is more efficient in push-pull strategy (Midega et al., 2006). Soil conditioning through companion cropping in an agricultural ecosystem can have impact on growth rate and chemical phenotype of maize which have negative effect on pest performance by suppressing larval feeding. This new mechanism of associational resistance further increases the effectiveness of push-pull companion cropping system to manage insect pests (Mutyamba et al., 2017). So, both above mentioned plants can be used as trap crop around the maize field and Desmodium spp. (Fabaceae) plant can be planted in-between to repel the adult moth of this pest for sustainable management of C. partellus.\r\nBiocontrol agents: microbial bioagent and parasitoids. Biological control with microbial pathogens offers an alternative method of controlling the pest. The efficacy of 3 formulation of Beauveria bassiana against C. partellus were tested and found that both aqueous and dry rice grain-based inoculums showed good result in reducing larval population, foliar damage, and stalk tunnel length (Maniania, 1993). These formulations are easy to apply and manage the C. partellus at small scale level can developed by using other cheap and locally available raw materials. Careful selection of fungal isolates for use as microbial control agents is important. Laboratory tests have identified four strains (B. bassiana ICIPE 35 and 4, and M. anisopliae ICIPE 18 and 30) which were found to be highly pathogenic to C. partellus among 15 strains tested (Maniania, 1992). Use of more than one pathogen provides even better control. Combined application of B. thuringiensis and B. bassiana could be a cost-effective and eco-friendly approach for the successful management of C. partellus. Application of B. bassiana (1× 108 spores/ml) and B. thuringiensis (0.75μg/g) together exhibited highest larval mortality of larvae while the 2nd instar larvae were more susceptible to it than 4th larval instars (Sufyan et al., 2019). Chilo partellus Nucleopolyhedrosis virus (CpNPV) belonging to the family Baculoviridae which was isolated from diseased larvae of C. partellus were found to cause larval mortality with typical symptoms of viral infection in C. partellus (Sethuraman and Narayanan 2010). \r\nThe different stages of C. partellus attacked by a wide array of parasitoids in natural condition and some of them are commercially used manage this pest in ago-ecosystem. Egg parasitoids, Trichogramma spp. (Hymenoptera: Trichogrammatidae) are widely used against lepidopteran insect-pests. Study from Bangalore, India shows that parasitism rates by T. chilonis on C. partellus eggs were up to 63% with significantly reduction in stem tunnelling when parasitoids releases at 5 days interval. Furthermore, the combined application of T. chilonis and B. thuringiensis resulted in significantly less pest infestation and stem tunnelling compared to individual treatments (Jalali and Singh 2006). Recent study from northern India shows that maximum egg parasitism of C. partellus with effective suppression of maize plant infestation, dead heart and leaf injury when T. chilonis were released twice at 7 and 14 days after germination @ 1,25,000 parasitized eggs per ha. (Singh et al., 2020). In southern India, larval parasitoid, Cotesia flavipes in kharif season (29% parasitization) and Sturmiopsis inferens in rabi-summer season (28%parasitization) was found to be very active, while population of 2% pupal parasitoid, Tetrastichus sp., was also recorded during kharif season on C. partellus (Divya et al., 2009). It was reported that C. flavipes have better functional and numerical responses on C. partellus than Cotesia sesamiae in Kenya (Sallam et al., 1999). The global climate change may alter the resistance to temperature stress in insects which could affect biocontrol efficacy. Phenotypical plastic responses are important mechanism for an organism to survive when faced with novel environments (Nyamukondiwa et al., 2010). Study suggest that thermal plasticity may enhance the survival of C. partellus and C. flavipes when they are exposed to lethal low and high temperatures which helps to potentially mediate the interaction between them in rapidly changing environments, however, C. partellus appeared to be more plastic, and may inhabit slightly warmer environments than C. flavipes (Mutamiswa et al., 2018).\r\nEfficacy of insecticides in India\r\nBio-efficacy of insecticides on C. partellus was tested and found minimum percent infestation recorded in chlorantraniliprole 20 SC @ 0.3 ml/l while maximum benefit: cost ratio (14:1) was found in flubendiamide 480 SC @ 0.2 ml/l treatment (Kumar and Alam, 2017). Study on efficacy of tetraniliprole 480 FS as seed treatment on C. partellus in maize crop results revealed that the insecticidal dose of 3.6 g/kg of seed found to provide maximum control while 1.2 and 2.4 g/kg of seed found safe to natural enemies of C. partellus among different dose treatment (Alam et al., 2020). Another study done in Gujrat, India found that Spinosad 45SC @ 0.002 % and Chlorantraniliprole 18.5 SC @ 0.006% were found highly effective in reducing the larval population of C. partellus and dead heart in maize (Devananda et al., 2018). \r\nStudy evaluated the lethal and sublethal effects of twelve insecticides on parasitoid C. flavipes indicated that based on residual toxicity test organophosphates exhibited highest contact toxicity to adults (LC50 0.60-1.05mg a.i/l), while neonicotinoids were less toxic (LC50 1.30-139.00 mg a.i/l), and sugar-insecticide feeding bioassays showed that organophosphates, pyrethroids and carbamates were highly toxic to adults and caused 100% mortality at 48 h of exposure in C. flavipes. Imidacloprid and acetamiprid were the least toxic to this parasitoid so they can be used in sustainable control of C. partellus (Akhtar et al., 2021). Report on whole genome sequencing of C. partellus reveals multiple genes encoding different enzymes for detoxification of insecticides. Total 64 cytochrome P450 genes (CYP450s), and 36 glutathione S-transferases genes (GSTs) were identified which primarily responsible for xenobiotic metabolism in insects. In C. partellus genome total 183 circadian genes with and 11 olfactory receptor genes that mediate chemical cues were found. Target receptors related to insecticide action, 4 acetylcholinesterase (AChE), 14 γ aminobutyric acid (GABA), and 15 nicotinic acetylcholine (nAChR) receptors were also detected (Dhillon et al., 2022). These information’s will be useful for deployment of selective insecticides for the control of C. partellus.\r\n','Ashok Kumar Sau, K. Chandrakumara, Aditya K. Tanwar and Mukesh K. Dhillon (2022). Distribution, Host Range, Damage Potential, Bioecology and Management of Chilo partellus (Swinhoe): A Review. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 14(2): 712-719.'),(4942,'125','Effect of Seed Pelleting with Rhizobium and Nitrogen Application on Yield and Quality of Cowpea Seeds','Nirmal Singh* and Ashok K. Thakur','123 Effect of Seed Pelleting with Rhizobium and Nitrogen Application on Yield and Quality of Cowpea Seeds Nirmal Singh.pdf','',1,'Seed treatment with biofertilizers reduces demand of artificial fertilizers and reduces environmental pollution and cost of cultivation. By keeping this aspect in mind, an experiment was laid out to check the effect of seed pelleting with Rhizobium and different dose of nitrogen application on yield and quality of cowpea seeds. Experiment was laid out in a Randomized Block Design (Factorial) with different pelleting material i.e. no pelleting (P1), Rhizobium liquid (P2), Rhizobium powder (P3) and Rhizobium liquid with jaggery (P4) and 5 levels of nitrogen application i.e. 0% N of Recommended dose of fertilizer (F1), 40% N of RDF (F2), 60% N of RDF (F3), 80% N of RDF (F4) and 100% N of RDF (F5). Results of experiment showed that maximum seed yield per plant and per hectare was found when seeds were pelleted with Rhizobium (liquid form) and yield was increased by 15.74% and 23.21% over control, respectively. Nitrogen application also significantly affected seed yield over control and maximum was found when 80% N of recommended dose of fertilizer (RDF) was applied. In case of nitrogen application, seed yield per plant and per hectare was increased by 10.34% and 13.71% over control, respectively. Seed quality of harvested seeds from field was also analyzed and found that seed pelleting with Rhizobium (liquid form) and 80% N of RDF produced high vigour seeds in comparison to control and other treatments.','Cowpea, Nitrogen, Pelleting, Rhizobium, Seed yield, Seed quality','Seed pelleting with Rhizobium was found to be a recognized technique to increase seed yield in cowpea. Seed pelleting with Rhizobium and proper nitrogen application are known to increased seed quality parameters. Still there is always room for improvement and research in every area but cowpea seed treatments with Rhizobium could be recommended for sowing in Himachal Pradesh conditions.','INTRODUCTION\r\nAccording to estimation by FAO, global population will be around 9.1 billion by 2050 (Cohen, 2005) and around (Barrett, 2010). To feed all the population, challenges in current agriculture like climate change, shrinking available land for agriculture, higher use of chemical fertilizers, depleting soil properties, yield stagnation of crops etc. have to be reduced by adopting sustainable agriculture (Gomiero et al., 2011). A sustainable agriculture is one which depletes neither the people nor the land. Sustainable agriculture is known for environment protection, to maintain soil properties and to expand Earth’s natural resource base (Gold, 2016). The increasing demand of crop yield and food can be achieved by use of biofertilizers like Rhizobium, Azotobacter, Azospirillum and blue green algae (BGA) for the betterment of crops (Mishra et al.,2013) and even for the health of soil (Singh et al., 2014). Rhizobium fixes nitrogen symbiotically and stimulates plant growth by production of plant growth hormones (Tilak et al., 2006), vitamins, by solubilization of insoluble phosphates, induction of systemic disease resistance and enhancement in stress resistance (Lebrazi\r\nand Benbrahim 2014). Interaction between Rhizobium and legume crops has potential to increase agricultural productivity with less dependence on non-renewable inputs like artificial fertilizers (Peoples et al., 2009).\r\nCowpea [Vigna unguiculata (L.) Walp], a member of Leguminosae family (Ng and Padulosi, 1991, Kumar et al., 2022) is a crop of great economic importance for low-income population in developing countries (Verdier et al., 1998; Singh, 1997) because it is good source of protein (Fatokun, 2002), carbohydrate, vitamins and minerals (Iqbal et al., 2006). Being a leguminous crop, it also fixes nitrogen symbiotically with biofertilizers (Eke-Okoro et al., 1999); although it requires nitrogen as a small basal dose for quick and better start because it is essential constituent of many enzymes, protein and chlorophyll. To ensure proper germination and growth of seedlings, there are different ways to apply biofertilizers to seeds of cowpea and seed pelleting with Rhizobiumis one of them. Seed pelleting is a mechanism of applying needed material in such a way that they affect the seed or soil at the seed-soil interface to ensure better performance of seed. Seed pelleting with Rhizobium can also reduce the negative effect on seed germination, seedling growth and plant growth in soil due to excessive use of urea (Bremner and Krogmeier, 1989). Pawar et al. (2014) reported that seed inoculation with Rhizobium show higher growth and yield in legumes when it is compared to application of Rhizobium in soil as biofertilizers. Besides, cowpea has inherent problems like flower shedding, shrinkable seeds, poor pod and seed setting due to deficiency of micronutrients, macronutrients, growth promoting substances and biotic stress and Rhizobium is known for providing plant growth promoting substances like auxin and to increase nutrient uptake. Keeping in view the above prospective, this study had been planned to determine the effect of seed pelleting with Rhizobium and nitrogen application on yield and quality parameters of cowpea crop.\r\nMATERIALS AND METHODS\r\nThis experiment was conducted during Kharif season of 2015-16 at experimental farm of Dr. Y S Parmar UHF which is located at an altitude of 1250 meters above mean sea level with latitude of 35.5oN and longitude of 77.8oE in the mid- hill zone of Himachal Pradesh, India. Genetically pure seed of cowpea cv. Him Lobia 1 was used for experiment. Liquid and powder form of Rhizobium culture was obtained from Soil microbiology laboratory of Department of Soil Science and water management. Seeds were pelleted at CSIR-IHBT (Institute of Himalayan Bioresource Technology) Palampur, H.P., India. For seed pelleting clay and adhesive (45% Gum Arabica) was used. There were total 20 treatment combinations (4 level of seed pelleting i.e. P1-Control, P2-Rhizobium liquid + clay + adhesive, P3- Rhizobium powder + clay + adhesive, P4- Rhizobium liquid formulation + jaggary and 5 level of nitrogen application i.e. F1-0 % Nitrogen of Recommended dose of fertilizer, F2 -40% N of RDF, F3 -60% N of RDF, F4 -80% N of RDF, F5 -100% N of RDF) and each treatment was replicated three times so there were total 60 plots of 1.8m × 1.5m (i.e. 2.7 m2) size. There were total 40 plants in every plot and spacing was 45cm × 15cm. Urea is applied to these plots and recommended dose for cowpea is 45kg/hectare. Seed yield per plant and per hectare as yield parameters and germination %, speed of germination, seedling length, seedling dry weight, seed vigour index-I and seed vigour index-II as seed quality parameters were observed.\r\nRESULTS AND DISCUSSIONS\r\nSeed pelleting with Rhizobium (liquid and powder form) and jaggary affected significantly seed yield of crop. Seed yield per plant was increased by 15.74% over control (no pelleting) when seed were pelleted with Rhizobium liquid form. Maximum average seed yield per plant (22.49 g) was found when seed were pelleted with liquid form (P2) and minimum average yield per plant (19.43 g) was found in control (no pelleting) treatment. It might be due to that Rhizobium ensures proper nodulation in root zone which leads adequate nitrogen uptake (Vessey, 2003). Rhizobium also exhibits antibacterial and antifungal activities (Pawar et al., 2014) which allow seeds for healthy seedling rise. Similar findings were obtained by Bohra et al. (1990); (Patel and Jadav, 2010); (Mishra and Solanki, 1996) and Rajput (1994) in cowpea. (Khanam et al., 1994); (Albayrak et al., 2006); (Khalil et al., 1989) also found increased yield per plant in chick pea, Common Vetch (Vicia sativa L.) and mung bean respectively when seeds of these crops were inoculated with Rhizobium. Different dose of nitrogen application as application of urea also affected seed yield per plant significantly. Maximum average seed yield per plant (21.86 g) was found when 80% N of RDF was applied to plots and minimum (19.81 g) was found in control in which urea was not applied. Application of nitrogen in form of urea increased seed yield per plant because nitrogen helps in vegetative growth of plant and nitrogen also play a vital role to reduce nutritional deficiency especially at reproductive stage which leads to high number of pods per plant, seeds per pod and finally higher seed yield (Umeh et al., 2011); (Thies et al., 1991); (Pikul et al.,1997) also found increased yield in different legumes when seeds were treated with Rhizobium. (Upadhyay and Singh, 2016) also reported that recommended nitrogen dose increased seed yield in cowpea. The interaction effects due to seed pelleting and nitrogen application were found to be non-significant at 5% level of significance. Maximum average seed yield was found when 80% N of RDF (F4) applied and seeds pelleted with liquid form of Rhizobium (P2). Minimum average seed yield per plant was found in P1F1 (control + 0% N of RDF). Around 28% yield per plant was increased in P2F4 over control (P1F1). Kishan et al., (2002) also reported that seed pelleting with Rhizobium and nitrogen application increase seed yield in cowpea cv. Pusa Phalguni. Same findings were also obtained by Mishra and Solanki, (1996) in cowpea and Soni et al., (2021) in pigeonpea. Seed yield per hectare was significantly affected by different seed pelleting and nitrogen application treatments. Interaction effect of seed pelleting and nitrogen application was non-significant on seed yield per hectare though. When seeds were inoculated with liquid form of Rhizobium pelleting than total yield per hectare was increased by 20.1% over control. Among different doses of nitrogen application, 80% N of RDF gave maximum yield (23.96 q) which was 12% higher in comparison to control (0% N of RDF).Treatment combination of liquid Rhizobium pelleting (P2) and 80% N of RDF (F4) gave maximum (26.73 q) yield per hectare and minimum (19.39 q) was found in P1F1 (non-pellet seeds + 0% N of RDF). There was around 37% hike in seed yield per hectare when seeds were pelleted with Rhizobium liquid and 80% N of RDF were supplied to plots over control (non-pellet seeds + 0% N of RDF). Seed pelleting with Powder form of Rhizobium also increased the seed yield. The enhancement in seed yield per hectare due to seed pelleting with Rhizobium might be due to the carryover beneficial effects of pre sowing treatments with nutrients to the seeds which led to better plant growth during vegetative and reproductive phase and ultimately led to increased seed yield. Seed yield per hectare was increased linearly with the increasing levels of nitrogen fertilization with Rhizobium seed pelleting due to increase in plant height, number of branches per plant, number of pods per plant and number of seeds per pods. Harvested seeds from crop were analyzed for seed quality parameters like germination percentage, seedling length, seedling weight and vigour index and found that all the parameters were increased in comparison to seeds which were sown.\r\nAmong different types of pelleting treatments, maximum germination (95.90%) was found with Rhizobium liquid pelleted seeds (P2) and minimum (91.85%) was found in non-pelleted seeds (P1). The application of different nitrogen doses had also exhibited significant effect on germination. Maximum germination (94.75%) was found with application of 80% N of RDF (F4) and found to be statistically superior to all other doses of nitrogen. However, minimum germination (92.75%) was found with the application of 0% N of RDF (F1).Interaction effect of seed pelleting and nitrogen application on germination percentage was non-significant buy germination percentage increased in every treatment and maximum (96.25%) was found in P2F4 and minimum (91.25%) was in control (P1F1). It might be due to freshly harvested seeds from plants which had uptake proper quantity of nutrients during their growth. Due to proper supply of nitrogen during mother plant growth, mother plants might be produced high content protein seeds and high content of protein in seeds in known for higher germination. Similar results of increased germination due to seed inoculation with Rhizobium and nitrogen application was reported by Yadav and Malik (2005) in cowpea.\r\nBoth treatment; seed pelleting and nitrogen application had significant effect on speed of germination separately but interaction effect of both treatments was non-significant. In case of seed pelleting, maximum (58.66) speed of germination was found in P2 and minimum (56.67) was found in control. Among treatment of nitrogen application, maximum (58.97) speed of germination was found in F4 and minimum (57.10) was found in control (F1). The biofertilizers and nitrogen doses provide different micronutrients to the mother plant at early stages of growth that play vital role in producing good quality seed and good quality seeds led to higher speed of germination. Increased speed of germination due to seed pelleting was also recorded by Shashibhaskar et al. (2009); Masuthi et al. (2009).\r\nDifferent pelleting treatments and nitrogen application had significant effect on seed vigour index-I. Among different pelleting treatments, maximum (2774.08) SVI-I was found in P2 and minimum (2665.95) was found in non-pelleted seeds (P1). Among different nitrogen application, maximum (2835.38) SVI-I was found in F4 and minimum (2658.79) was found in F1. Interaction of seed pelleting and nitrogen application had also significant effect on SVI-I and maximum (2952.33) SVI-I was found in P2F4 and minimum (2556.70) was found in P1F2. Micronutrients provided to the mother plant during the early stages of growth helps to produce uniform, bold and vigorous seed that results in good germination and seedling length that led to enhanced SVI-I. Increased seed vigour index-I might be due to increased germination and seedling length. Similar findings of increased seed vigour index-I due to seed pelleting with Rhizobium and nitrogen application was reported by Kishan et al. (2001) in cowpea cv. Pusa Phalguni.\r\nDifferent types of pelleting and different doses of nitrogen had significant effect on seed vigour index-II in cowpea. Among different types of pelleting, maximum seed vigour index-II (7346.90) was found with Rhizobium (liquid form) pelleted seeds and minimum (6156.50) was found in the non-pelleted seeds (P1). The application of different nitrogen doses also exhibited significant effect on seed vigour index-II. Maximum seed vigour index-II (6823.56) was found with application of 80% N of RDF (F4) and found to be statistically superior to all other doses of nitrogen. However, minimum seed vigour index-II (6447.40) was found with the application of 0% N of RDF (F1). The interaction effects due to seed pelleting and nutrition management were found to be non-significant at 5% level of significance. Masuthi et al. (2009) reported that the seed pelleting provides the nutrient to the mother plant during early stages of growth which led to formation of bold and vigours seeds. The enhanced germination and seedling dry weight due to vigorous seeds led to enhanced SVI-II.\r\nThe biofertilizers and nitrogen doses provide different micronutrients to the mother plant at early stages of growth that play vital role in seed set, seed size and quality. Higher seed quality might be due to well-developed seeds with higher thousand seed weight and additional supply of micronutrients due to seed pelleting to the mother plant which led to the production of bold and vigorous quality seeds. The good quality seeds led to higher speed of germination and seedling vigour (length and dry weight).The increased seedling length of seeds harvested from the crop raised from pelleted seeds has also been reported by (Masuthi et al., 2009) in cowpea. Seedling dry weight. Similar findings of increased seed vigour index-I due to seed pelleting with Rhizobium and nitrogen application was reported by Swaroop et al., (2001) in cowpea; Khatana et al. (2021) and in chickpea by Patil et al. (2002).\r\n','Nirmal Singh and Ashok K. Thakur (2022). Effect of Seed Pelleting with Rhizobium and Nitrogen Application on Yield and Quality of Cowpea Seeds. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 14(2): 720-726.'),(4943,'125','Assessment of Genetic Divergence for Seed Yield and its Component Traits in a New Set of Germplasm in Finger Millet (Eleusine coracana L. Gaertn)','Mohit Sharma*, K. Madhusudan, Prashant Vasisth, Parul Gupta and V. Balar','124 Assessment of Genetic Divergence for Seed Yield and Its Component Traits in a New Set of Germplasm in Finger Millet _Eleusine coracana L. Gaertn_ Mohit Sharma.pdf','',1,'Investigation of germplasm accessions for genetic diversity is of immense importance in selection of choice of parents for hybridisation programme. An experiment was conducted to unravel the genetic diversity for seed yield and its contributing traits among a new set of 145 finger millet germplasm accessions obtained from IIMR, Hyderabad. Present study was conducted at Zonal Agriculture Research Station, V.C. Farm, Mandya in Randomized Complete Block Design with two replications. Accessions were organized into 10 clusters through Mahalanobis D2 statistics and maximum inter cluster D2 value (448.27) was observed between cluster II and VIII followed by D2 value (436.08) among cluster II and IV. Significant difference was observed among cluster means for most of the traits. Maximum percentage of contribution to the genetic divergence was displayed by 1000-seed weight (34.39%). The findings revealed that accessions 3855 (cluster II) and 4866 (cluster VIII) were more genetically diverse suggesting that these could be used in future hybridization programme to get desirable segregants. ','Genetic divergence, finger millet, Mahalanobis D2','The assessment of genetic diversity is not only important for crop improvement efforts but also for efficient management and protection of germplasm resources. Genetic divergence studies using D2 statistic showed the presence of substantial diversity. The germplasm accessions were organized into 10 diverse clusters. The maximum inter cluster D2 value (448.27) was observed between cluster II and VIII followed by D2 value (436.08) among cluster II and IV. It was observed that Cluster III i.e., accession 4516 was registered the highest seed yield plant-1, straw yield plot-1, earhead length, peduncle length, productive tillers plant-1 and plant height which revealed the possibility for immediate or further use in breeding programme. Accession 3855 (cluster II) and 4866 (cluster VIII) were found genetically more diverse indicating that these accessions could be used in future hybridization programmes to get desirable segregates.','INTRODUCTION\r\nFinger millet (Eleusine coracana L. Gaertn) is a tetraploid with chromosome number 2n=4x=36 belonging to family poaceae and commonly known as Ragi, Nagli, Nachani and Mandua. It is evolved from a cross between two diploid species, E. indica (L.) Gaertn. (AA) and E. flocifolia or E. tristachya (BB) as genome donors (Chennaveeraiah and Hiremath, 1973). It is native to Ethiopian highlands of central Africa and was domesticated into Indian subcontinent nearly 3000 years ago (Anon., 1995). The cultivation of finger millet in India under diverse agro-climatic conditions associated with natural and human selection has resulted in larger variability in crop, thus India became the secondary centre of diversity. In world, finger millet is a widely cultivated in the semi-arid areas of Eastern and Southern Africa and South Asia. It serves as staple food for a huge section of poor and farming community in many areas of India. It ranked as fourth millet in world after sorghum, pearl millet and foxtail millet, while in India it ranks third after sorghum and pearl millet in millets (Upadhaya et al., 2007). An enormous number of small farmers cultivate finger millet with limited water resources and in numerous nations this crop is frequently known as “poor people’s crop”.\r\nIn India, ragi is cultivated in an area of 1.15 million hectare with a production of 1.99 million tonne giving an average productivity of 1724 kg/ha majorly in Karnataka, Andhra Pradesh, Tamil Nadu, Maharashtra, Uttarakhand and Odisha (Anon., 2022). Karnataka is the leading producer of finger millet which contributes 68.26 % to the total area and 68.34 % to the total production of ragi cultivated in India (Anon., 2022). Ragi is acknowledged for its health advantageous effects, like antidiabetic, anti-diarrheal, antitumerogenic, anti-inflammatory, atherosclerogenic, antiulcer, antimicrobial, antioxidant propertiesand commonly known as “nutritious millet” as contains a high quantity of calcium (0.38%), protein (6%–13%), carbohydrates (65%–75%), minerals (2.5%–3.5%) and dietary fiber (18%) (Ulagnathan and Nirmalakumari, 2014). It provides 8-10 times more calcium than that of rice and wheat.\r\nAs concerned to global food security for growing population, it is mandatory to enhance the production and productivity of ragi crop. In plant breeding programme, genetic improvement through conventional breeding approaches like hybridisation, selection depends mainly on availability of diverse germplasm with presence of enormous genetic variability. The maximum utilization of any species for breeding and its adaptation to different environments depend on the level of genetic diversity it holds. Genetic distance among parents may be attributed to their differences for number of genes and their functional relations in a given environment (Nei, 1976). Evaluation of genetic divergence and relatedness among breeding materials has significant implications for the improvement of crop plants. Knowledge on genetic diversity in finger millet could help breeders and geneticists to understand the structure of germplasm, predict which combinations would produce the best offsprings and facilitate to widen the genetic basis of breeding material for selection (Singh et al., 2013). Progenies derived from diverse parents selected on basis of genetic divergence analysis are expected to show a broad spectrum of genetic variability, providing a greater scope for isolating transgressive segregant in advanced generation (Singh and Mishra, 1996) and promising heterotic effect may be observed in early generation. Mahalanobis D2 statistics-based clustering is powerful tools in quantification of genetic divergence among germplasm accessions with respect to productive per se traits. Assessment of genetic diversity in finger millet using Mahalanobis D2 statistics has previously been done by many researchers (Kadam, 2008; Karad and Patil, 2013; Mahanthesha et al., 2017; Negi et al., 2017). Therefore, the present study was undertaken to estimate the genetic divergence in a set of 145 finger milletgermplasm and explore potential to evaluate the relationship of these genotypes based on quantitative trait data. \r\nMATERIALS AND METHODS\r\nThe current investigation on assessment of genetic divergence for yield and its contributing traits in finger millet germplasm accession was carried out during kharif, 2019 at Zonal Agricultural Research Station (ZARS), V. C. Farm, Mandya represents Southern Dry Zone of Karnataka (Zone 6) which is located at 12°32’ N latitude and 76°53’ E longitude and an altitude of 716 m above MSL. The material for present study was provided by ICAR- Indian Institute of Millets Research (IIMR) Rajendranagar, Hyderabad. The experiment was carried out in a randomized complete block design (RCBD) with two replications consisted of 145 germplasm accessions along with three checks viz. VL 352, GPU 67, and MR 6. The recommended package of practices was followed during crop growth period to raise a good crop. The observations on 11 quantitative traits viz., plant height (cm), productive tillers plant-1,days to 50% flowering, days to maturity, fingers ear-1, finger length (cm), ear head length (cm), peduncle length (cm), seed yield plant-1 (g), straw yield plant-1and 1000-seed weight (g) were recorded on five randomly selected plants from each germplasm accession in each replication. Estimation of genetic divergence was done by multivariate analysis using Mahalanobis (1936). All the D2 values were calculated using Tocher’s method as described by Rao (1952). The inter and intra cluster distances were calculated by the formula given by Singh and Chaudhary (1977).\r\nRESULTS AND DISCUSSION\r\nSelection of parents based on the extent of genetic divergence has been successfully utilized in different crop species by different researchers (Sharma et al., 2021). The investigated genotypes were organized into 10 clusters using Tocher’s method (Rao, 1952). The clusters were constructed in such a way that the genotypes within a cluster had lower D2 value than those of the other diverse clusters. The distribution pattern of genotypes into diverse clusters was furnished in Table 1. Out of 10 clusters, maximum number of accessions were organized into cluster I (135 accession including 3 checks) followed by cluster V with 5 accessions. The clusters II, III, IV, VI, VII, VIII, IX, X (i.e., 8 clusters) were constituted by a single accession that revealed the presence of high degree of heterogeneity among accessions. Based on 11 quantitative traits, Euclidean genetic distances were estimated between different genotypes of finger millet. The average intra and inter cluster distances D2 values were presented in Table 2 and Fig. 1. The maximum intra cluster D2 values was recorded for cluster V (108.52) followed by cluster I (91.89). The intra cluster distances ranged from zero (solitary clusters) to 108.52 (Cluster V). Zero intra cluster distance was observed in cluster II, III, IV, VI, VII, VIII, IX and X represented by single accession. These results indicate that genotypes contributing to same clusters have a low diversity and the selection within a cluster is not considered as satisfactory. \r\nA broad range of inter cluster distance were recorded from 37.95 (among cluster IV and VI) to 448.27 (among cluster II and VIII). The maximum inter cluster D2 value (448.27) was observed between cluster II (accession 3855) and VIII (accession 4866) followed by D2 value (436.08) among cluster II and IV, revealed that maximum heterosis can be anticipated from the crosses with parents belonging to theses most diverse clusters i.e., cross among 3855 × 4866 and 3855× 6526 accessions as parents could be used further in hybridization programme for enhancing the productivity of finger millet. Similar results were reported by Kadam (2008); Kumar et al. (2010) ; Devaliya et al. (2017). Therefore, the accessions from diverse clusters mentioned above can be used as parent in future breeding programme to develop desirable segregates.\r\nCluster means of the traits: The cluster mean for all quantitative traits under investigation were illustrated in Table 3. Cluster III was recorded the highest mean values of seed yield plant-1 (18.75), straw yield plot-1 (0.89), earhead length (15.80), peduncle length (34.80), productive tillers plant-1 (5.30) and plant height (107.00). Accession from cluster VII i.e., 6754 was found the lowest mean values for seed yield plant-1 (9.06), straw yield plot-1 (0.26), earhead length (6.30), peduncle length (20.20), days to 50% flowering (58.50), finger length (4.55), finger number ear-1 (4.90) and plant height (59.70). Genotype of cluster III revealed the possibility of selecting directly one genotype that can be used for yield enhancement as it showed highest cluster mean for yield and important contributing traits. The present findings were in agreement with the findings of Kadam (2008); Kumar et al. (2010); Mahanthesha et al. (2017); Devaliya et al. (2017).\r\nRelative contribution of characters towards genetic divergence: The numbers of times that each one of the 11 characters showed up 1st rank and their corresponding per cent contribution to genetic divergence were furnished in Table 4. Among all traits under investigation, 1000 seed test weight (34.39%), straw yield plot-1(17.09%), finger length (12.21%), days to maturity (9.28%), days to 50% flowering and seed yield plant-1 (8.08%) were reported the higher contribution towards the genetic divergence. Similar results were observed by Negi et al. (2017) for days to 50% flowering, straw yield plot-1 and peduncle length. The findings for plant height and productive tillers plant-1 were in accordance with Mahanthesha et al. (2017).\r\n','Mohit Sharma, K. Madhusudan, Prashant Vasisth, Parul Gupta and V. Balar (2022). Assessment of Genetic Divergence for Seed Yield and its Component Traits in a New Set of Germplasm in Finger Millet (Eleusine coracana L. Gaertn). Biological Forum – An International Journal, 14(2): 727-731.'),(4944,'125','In silico analysis of 1H-1,2,4-Triazole, 1-octadecanoyl Revealed anti-oomycete Nature against Phytophthora infestans causing Late Blight of Potato','K. Mahendra*, S. Nakkeeran, R. Janani, N. Saranya, T. Raguchander, K. Angappan, U. Sivakumar and L. Arul\r\n','125 In silico analysis of 1H-1,2,4-Triazole, 1-octadecanoyl Revealed anti-oomycete Nature against Phytophthora K. Mahendra.pdf','',1,'Late blight of potato incited by Phytophthora infestans is one of the main obstacles for potato and tomato production in India. Co-evolution of pathogen with fungicides made the management of late blight a challenging task throughout the world. The main aim of this study was to elucidate the role of 1H-1,2,4-Triazole, 1-octadecanoyl, identified from the zone of inhibition of di-trophic interaction of Bacillus subtilis NM261 and Phytophthora infestans, against Phytophthora infestans target proteins. For molecular docking, the target proteins such as RxLR effector protein Avr1, Elicitin and Glucanase inhibitor protein 3 were selected based on their role in pathogenesis of P. infestans. The three-dimensional structures of target proteins were developed using software; SWISS-MODEL, Phyre2 and ROBETTA. The hypothetical crystal structures were validated using Ramachandran plot before being docked. The fungicide molecule, metalaxyl was used as a positive control. The results revealed that the biomolecule 1H-1,2,4-Triazole, 1-octadecanoyl could bound with all the target proteins and had higher binding energy values in comparison with fungicide molecule, metalaxyl. Thus, these findings confirmed the anti-oomycete nature of 1H-1,2,4-Triazole, 1-octadecanoyl against P. infestans through molecular docking. ','Phytophthora infestans, 1H-1,2,4-Triazole, 1-octadecanoyl, molecular docking, Bacillus subtilis, endophyte, GC-MS','In silico analysis of biomolecule 1H-1,2,4-Triazole, 1-octadecanoyl with P. infestans target proteins, elicitin, RXLR effect or AVR1 and GIP3 revealed that the biomolecule could bound the target molecules with binding energy of -4.6 kcal/mol, -4.2 kcal/mol and -3.7 kcal/mol respectively. Also, the biomolecule had comparatively higher binding affinity than metalaxyl, which confirmed the anti-oomycete nature of 1H-1, 2, 4-Triazole, 1-octadecanoyl against P. infestans. Further, the validation of 1H-1, 2, 4-Triazole, 1-octadecanoyl in wet lab experiments and in field conditions are required for its effective deployment against late blight of potato.','INTRODUCTION\r\nPotato is the world largest vegetable crop with an annual production of 300 million metric tonnes (International Potato Center, 2021). However, the productivity of potato is hampered due to nutrients imbalance, diseases, pest and nematodes. Among the major diseases in potato, late blight caused by an oomycete, P. infestans is recognized as one of the most widespread and destructive disease, and a major production constraint to potato worldwide. In this situation, several approaches have been made to control the late blight of potato. So far there was no feasible strategies currently available to completely protect these plants against this deadly menace. Chemical fungicide-based disease control leads to higher amount of fungicide intake which results in resistant to microbial degradation, eventually the development of resistance in the pathogen (Fernández-Ortuño et al., 2006). \r\nAzoxystrobin and biomolecule, chaetoglobosin applied potato plants showed the increased resistance towards late blight of potato pathogen, P. infestans by increasing the levels of peroxidase, poly phenol oxidase and superoxide dismutase (Srinivasan et al., 2016). In this juncture, microbial biocontrol agents can pave the way for the biological control of plant diseases through their bioactive secondary metabolites. Recent advances in molecular modelling and docking would allow to find out the potential anti-oomycete biomolecules of microbial origin and it will help toannotate potential protein target sequences of the P. infestans that play a key role in the pathogenicity resulting in the suppression of late blight pathogen (Isyaku et al., 2020). Considering the significance, in silico analysis was carried out to dock the biomolecule, 1H-1,2,4-Triazole, 1-octadecanoyl against three target proteins of P. infestans to discover the anti-oomycete action.\r\nMATERIALS AND METHODS\r\nIdentification of protein targets of P. infestans and molecular modelling: The three target proteins of P. infestans viz, RxLR effector protein Avr1, Elicitin and Glucanase inhibitor protein 3 were selected based on their role in pathogenesis. The amino acid sequences were retrieved from the online database UniProt. As there is no crystal structure of the proteins was available in Protein Data Bank Database, we went for the modelling of 3D structure of the target proteins using SWISS-MODEL (Method: Rigid-body assembly), Phyre2 (Method: Profile based alignment), and ROBETTA (Meta server, https://robetta.bakerlab.org/) based on query coverage performance and percentage identity of the proteins, which was obtained from BLASTp search.\r\nStructure Validation: The quality of the modelled protein structure was assessed through Ramachandran plot of the PROCHECK tool from the Structural Analysis and Verification Server (SAVES, Meta server, https://saves.mbi.ucla.edu/) to understand the phi and psi scatter of amino acid residues. The energy minimization for proteins and loop building for residues in disallowed regions were performed using Swiss PDB Viewer.\r\nLigand preparation and analysis: Two ligand molecules viz, 1H-1,2,4-Triazole, 1-octadecanoyl (biomolecule identified from zone of inhibition during interaction of Bacillus subtilis NM261 and P. infestans) and metalaxyl (reference ligand molecule)were retrieved from the Pub Chem database in Structure Data File (SDF) format. OpenBabel software (O\'Boyle et al., 2011) was used to convert compounds from SDF to Protein Data Bank (PDB) file format.\r\nVirtual screening and molecular docking: For performing molecular screening, the Auto Dock Vina module in PyRx 0.8 was used (Dallakyan and Olson, 2015). PyRx was used to identify the potential compound inhibitors against the target proteins of P. infestans. The energy minimization process was achieved via the field of universal force of optimization process with 200 steps. The Computed Atlas Topography of Proteins CASTp 3.0 server was used to find binding site pockets for the targets (Tian et al., 2018). Docked conformations of protein-ligand complexes were imported into BIOVIA Discovery studio client 2021. Interactions that are observed are logged and exported as photographs. The H-bond surface receptor was used to highlight the ligand-binding site. Different colours were assigned to the receptor, ligand, and interacting atoms to distinguish them.\r\n\r\nRESULTS AND DISCUSSION\r\nCrystal structures of P. infestans protein targets: The crystal structures of RxLR effector protein Avr1, Elicitin and Glucanase inhibitor protein 3 was modelled using SWISS, Phyre2 and ROBETTA software, respectively (Fig. 1).\r\nMolecular docking: Molecular docking results revealed that the biomolecule 1H-1,2,4-Triazole, 1-octadecanoyl was effectively bound with all the target sites of P. infestans used in this study (Fig. 2). The binding energy values, amino acid interactions and type of bonding were represented in Table 1. Plant pathogens frequently use a variety of effectors to aid infection. Elicitins are found in oomycetes, most notably in the species of Phytophthora and Pythium. They serve an important biological process in oomycetes as sterol transporters. The highest binding affinity (-4.6 kcal/mol) of 1H-1,2,4-Triazole, 1-octadecanoyl with elicitin was obtained. By binding the biomolecule 1H-1,2,4-Triazole, 1-octadecanoyl with elicitin could inhibit the sterol transport from plants which affect the life cycle of P. infestans (Ponchet et al., 1999). Numerous RXLR effectors are secreted by P. infestans, which alter host defence and therefore pave the way for effective invasion. Colonization and callous deposition in host plants are inhibited by RXLR effector AVR1, a virulence factor. The binding energy of 1H-1,2,4-Triazole, 1-octadecanoyl with RXLR effector protein Avr1 was-4.2 kcal/mol, could block the functions of RXLR in host tissues like colonization of P. infestans (Du et al., 2015). Glucanase inhibitor proteins (GIP) which are secreted by P. infestans, bind and block the action of plant extracellular endo-1,3-glucanases during the invasion of host plants. In the present study, the biomolecule 1H-1,2,4-Triazole, 1-octadecanoyl was able to bound with the glucanase inhibitor protein 3 with binding energy of -3.7 kcal/mol, which could affect the function of GIP and enables the action of plant glucanase enzymes on P. infestans cell wall (Damasceno et al., 2008). Interestingly, the biomolecule 1H-1,2,4-Triazole, 1-octadecanoyl had comparatively higher binding affinity to elicitin, RXLR effector AVR1 and GIP3 than the positive control, metalaxyl, an oomycete fungicide molecule (Fig. 3). Thus, these findings provided a clearer understanding of the role of 1H-1,2,4-Triazole, 1-octadecanoyl in the control of P. infestans.\r\n \r\n','K. Mahendra, S. Nakkeeran, R. Janani, N. Saranya, T. Raguchander, K. Angappan, U. Sivakumar and L. Arul (2022). In silico analysis of 1H-1,2,4-Triazole, 1-octadecanoyl Revealed anti-oomycete Nature against Phytophthora infestans causing Late Blight of Potato. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 14(2): 732-736.'),(4945,'125','Effect of Herbal Anthelmintic (Garlic + Neem) on the Reproductive Performance of Lactating Cattle','Mamta*, M. Singh, S.S. Lathwal, R. Sirohi, D.N. Singh, and Y. Singh','126 Effect of Herbal Anthelmintic _Garlic+ Neem_ on the Reproductive Performance of Lactating Cattle Mamta.pdf','',1,'The study was conducted to evaluate the anthelmintic efficacy of Garlic and Neem combination and its effect on the reproductive performance of lactating Karan fries cows. For the study 28 cows were taken which were freshly calved, had parity ranged 1-3 and were not dewormed for at least six months before. They were divided into four groups comprising seven cows in each. The cows of T1 were kept control provided normal feed, cows in T2, were provided commercially available synthetic dewormer, cows in T3 and T4 were provided with a dose of combination of Garlic and Neem at seven days after parturition and a second dose was supplemented in cows of T4 at day 60. No changes were made in the regular housing and feeding management of cows. To see the effect of herbal anthelmintic on reproductive traits of KF cows, the reproductive parameters (interval from calving to first observed estrus, calving to day of first service, first service conception rate, number of services per conception and service period) were recorded for each cow. The interval to first observed estrus was found significantly (p≤0.05) lower in group T4. Average number of days to first service were found highest in the group T1. In comparison to group T1, cows of group T2 and T4 received service respectively, 17 and 20.86 days earlier. The average service period in group T1 was observed 133.71±09.74 days which was 105.28±09.88, 122.57±5.76 and 99.14±5.43 days, in group T2, T3 and T4 respectively. Conception to first service was found highest in T4 group (57.14%) followed by T2 and T3 groups (42.86%), which was 28.57% in group T1. Number of services per conception was observed lowest in cows of T4 group (1.42±0.18) which was 2.14±0.34, 1.57±0.20 and 1.85±0.36 in groups T1, T2 and T3 respectively. It was concluded from the study that anthelmintic treated groups had better reproductive performance than the untreated group and also the efficiency of double dose herbal treatment was as better as the synthetic dewormer.','Garlic, Neem, Estrous, Service period, Service per conception','The results of the study lead us to the conclusion that anthelmintic treatment improves the reproductive performance of cattle. The double dose of herbal anthelmintic combination of Garlic and Neem is as efficacious as synthetic dewormer in controlling the gastrointestinal parasites Also the effect of double dose herbal anthelmintic treatment was better than the synthetic anthelmintic treatment on the reproductive performance of cows. ','INTRODUCTION\r\nThe ultimate goal of dairy management is to remove all those impediments which are coming across the way to achieve the better performance of the animals. Gastrointestinal parasitism is one of the major impediment in achieving optimum performance of animals. Helminths which are a diverse group of parasitic worms, encompassing Nematodes, Cestodes and Trematodes are recognized as a major constraint to livestock production throughout the tropics and elsewhere (Waller, 1997). These infections cause considerable economic loss in terms of productivity in many ways including mortality in heavily parasitized animals (Rinaldi et al., 2011; Wadhwa et al., 2011).\r\nThe economic losses with parasitism in cattle are mostly associated with subclinical parasitism, with no obvious signs of parasitism but significant losses in potential production. These losses are often very insidious in nature and often difficult to prove statistically in a consistent manner (Hawkins, 1993).\r\n Helminthic infections were once reported to be responsible for causing nearly one-third of total losses due to all animal diseases (Anon, 1990). It has also been established that a strategic anthelmintic treatment can improve animals performance including reproductive performance (Stuedemann et al., 1989). \r\nTo deal with this problem of gastrointestinal parasitism, when it comes to treatment, either they are commonly overlooked as majority of the infected animals show little obvious clinical signs and their effects are gradual and chronic (Raza et al., 2010), thus not drawing the immediate attention of the farmer, or treated conventionally with commercially available chemical anthelmentics. livestock producers are sometimes hesitant to use these anthelmintics due to their associated adverse effect and cost. Another associated issue is emergence of anthelmintic resistance which is a threat to agricultural incomes, and has been reported from all the four corners of the world, to all available drugs, in all classes of helminthes (Lalchhandama, 2010). \r\nEmergence of anthelmintic resistance along with associated adverse effects and the high cost of synthetic anthelmintics makes it need of the hour to develop alternative approaches. Herbal based anthelmintics could be the best possible alternative of these synthetic anthelmintics, as plants has long been used for ages by farmers and traditional healers to treat parasitism and to improve performance of livestock. Regardless of their wide ethnoveterinary usage scientific evidence on the anti-parasitic efficacy of most plant products is limited. Many in vitro studies have been conducted to demonstrate the anthelmintic efficacy of different herbs, some of them reported Neem and Garlic as the most efficacious for in vitro anthelmintic activity (Amin et al., 2009). For practical utilization their in vivo validation needs to be done. With these considerations the present study was carried out to evaluate the in vivo efficacy of Garlic and Neem combination for their anthelmintic potential and also its effect on animal’s reproductive performance.\r\nMATERIALS AND METHODS\r\nThe present study was carried out at Livestock Research Centre (LRC), National Dairy Research Institute (NDRI), Karnal, India. Neem leaf powder was procured from local market after assessing their quality in consultation with ayurvedic practitioner and drug manufacturer. Garlic bulbs were purchased from the local market and were dried under the shade for a period of 15 days. After drying, the outer husks were removed and the bulbs were ground to fine powder by using electrical mixer. The herbal mixture was prepared after mixing pulverized herbs in specific proportion. The dose was calculated for the respective animal based on their body weight, then Garlic and Neem powder were weighed accordingly in the ratio of 1:5 (based on the dose rate obtained by the in vitro standardization). \r\nTwenty eight freshly calved crossbred Karan Fries (Tharparkar × Holstein Friesian) cows, in first to third parity were selected and none of them had been dewormed at least six month before the start of the experiment. Animals were randomly divided into four (4) groups. Animals in control group (T1) were provided with the routine feeding practices of the farm without any kind of deworming. Animals in treatment groups were fed the same ration as in control group but provided with dewormer as follows- In T2 group: The synthetic dewormer used was Macfen-plusTM. In T3 group: Garlic + Neem in the ratio 1:5 was given @ 4g/kg body weight as single dose on day 7 after parturition. In T4 group: Garlic + Neem in the ratio 1:5 was given @ 4g/kg body weight as single dose on day 7 after parturition and subsequently same dose was repeated on day 60. For in vivo efficacy of the herb, fecal evaluation was done for parasitic eggs. Faecal egg count reduction was calculated as per equation of Coles et al. (1992). To see the effect of herbal anthelmintic on reproductive traits of KF cows, the reproductive parameters were recorded for each cow. \r\nFor calculating days to first observed estrus, groups of cows were observed twice daily in the morning and evening to determine the signs of estrus by the experienced and skilled personnel and estrus chart was prepared for each cow. Service period was calculated by counting the number of days from calving to the service that resulted in pregnancy and this was confirmed by pregnancy diagnosis after 45-60 days of last service. The numbers of service required for successful conception is called as Number of service per conception were recorded. Conception rate is the proportion of cows that were detected in oestrus and inseminated to that were pregnant. It was calculated as per the following equation.\r\nRESULTS AND DISCUSSION\r\nA. Effect of herbal anthelmintic (Garlic + Neem) on nematode control (Fecal egg count)\r\nIn all the anthelmintic treated groups, mean EPG values were found significantly (p≤0.05) lower compared to the control group. In synthetic dewormer group T2 there was observed the highest reduction of 96.79±2.09 % which was significantly higher than the herbal treated groups T3 (57.36±11.44%) and T4 (60.24±7.21 %). The overall mean values of FECR also shows an increase (-14.06±3.34%) in the egg count in the control group, whereas decrease in egg count was observed in all the anthelmintic treated groups. The synthetic dewormer treated group (T2) and the double dose herbal treated group (T4) did not show significant difference (83.20±2.76% and 78.85±3.09 %) in the overall FECR which was significantly better than the single dose (T3) group (56.62±3.39%).\r\nB. Effect of herbal anthelmintic (Garlic + Neem) on reproduction performance of cows\r\nThe data (Table 1) on reproduction performance for different groups were recorded and evaluated on the basis of days to first observed estrous, days to first service, service period, service per conception and first service conception rate. \r\n The first observed estrous (DFOE) in T1 was 78.00±4.88 days and for T2, T3 and T4 were 60.71±9.25, 75.14±8.36 and 59.14±3.01days, respectively. For first observed estrous there was found no significant difference between T1 and T3. The treatment group T4 was found to have significantly (p≤0.05) lower interval to first observed estrous, however the group T3 did not found significantly different from either of the groups. \r\nThe comparatively early postpartum estrous could be due to better energy status of cows in anthemintc treated groups. Resumption of ovarian cyclicity after parturition depends upon nutritional status, body energy reserves and blood glucose level of the animal. As blood glucose is the main source of energy for ovarian function (Rabiee et al., 1997) and influences in vitro bovine thecal steroidogenesis (Stewart et al., 1995), it might have played a major role in achieving early postpartum ovulation.\r\nAverage number of days to first service (DFS) were found highest in the untreated group. In comparision to untreated cows, T2 and T4 treatment group cows received service 17 and 20.86 days earlier. Service period (SP) was found significantly lower in T2 and T4 groups compared to the untreated group. In comparison to control, cows in T2 and T4 group conceived 28.43 and 34.57 days earlier. The higher service period in control group might be due to higher incidence of negative energy balance and subclinical mastitis. Our findings are supported by Gunay and Gunay (2008). They reported that cow suffering with mastitis prior to first postpartum AI and between first postpartum AI and pregnancy diagnosis had significantly (p≤0.05) extended duration of days open. Conception to first service (FSCR) was found highest in T4 group (57.14%) followed by T2 and T3 groups (42.86%) which was 28.57% in control group. A direct relationship between postpartum energy balance and first ovulation was demonstrated by Canfield et al. (1990). Negative energy balance results into increased BUN concentration (Dhaliwal, 2001). Greater serum or plasma urea nitrogen concentration reduces LH binding to ovarian receptors, leading to decrease in serum progesterone concentration and pregnancy rates (Sharma et al., 2006). Number of services per conception (NSPC) was found lower in cows of herbal anthelmintic treatment group, although non significantly. This suggest the favourable action of herbal antelmintic in improving conception rate with minimum services, which might be due to better status of uterine health which further attributed to anti-oxidant and immune-modulatory action of herbs which prevent infections (Ao et al., 2011; Huang et al., 2010). Similar type of findings on reproductive performance improvement with herbal supplementation has been reported by Cui et al., (2014) in Holstein cows. Chandra (2015) reported that the polyherbal mixture reduced the service period around sixty days in Murrah buffalo. Stuedemann et al. (1989) reported higher pregnancy rates for anthelmintic treated (98%) animals than that for untreated animals (75%). Also, they reported that the calving rate was higher for anthelmintic treated cows (90%) than for untreated cows (68%).\r\n','Mamta, M. Singh, S.S. Lathwal, R. Sirohi, D.N. Singh, Y. Singh (2022). Effect of Herbal Anthelmintic (Neem +Garlic) on the Reproductive Performance of Lactating Cattle. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 14(2): 737-740.'),(4946,'125','Breeding of Molly Fish and Sexual Dimorphism of Young Ones in Early Stage of their Life Cycle','Archana Naganyal and Prakriti Dwivedi*','127 Breeding of Molly Fish and Sexual Dimorphism of Young Ones in Early Stage of their Life Cycle Prakriti Dwivedi.pdf','',1,'The present work was done in the laboratory of the Forestry and Fisheries department to study the breeding of molly fish and distinguished sexes of young ones in the early stage of their life cycle. The study was started from the period of September 2021 to December 2021. The first mortality of 20 fry was recorded during this investigation in the tank since spawning occurs during the night hours and these fish consume their young once immediately after birth. Another experiment involved keeping two common (brooder) female molly fish in a bowl at room temperature. Both were pregnant at the same time, and one female died the day after they were separated. A total of 71 underdeveloped fry were found after dissection. The successful breeding of 2nd female brooder was observed and the total no of fry was 36. The male and female fish (young ones) was clearly observed on the 8th day after spawning. Later they were kept together with the other fry in a separate tank.','Molly fish, Breeding, Dissection, Fry, Sexual Dimorphism ','Livebearer breeding is simple because they release fry immediately, but the fry may need to be raised in a separate environment to avoid cannibalism from their parents. Molly fish are juvenile fish that are born with a fully complete body, including mouth, jaw, eyes, fins, lateral line, and scales. They also swim freely and are capable of eating immediately after birth, according to the current study. Eight days after spawning, the male and female saxes are also clearly visible. Apart from the cultural aspect, the current study on molly fish breeding and sexual dimorphism in young ones is highly essential, and it will benefit the poorer sections of society as it will provide a future source of revenue.','INTRODUCTION\r\nOrnamental fishes are tranquil, colorful fish kept as pets in confined setting such as an aquarium or a garden pool for the aim of admiring their beauty for fun and interest. Ornamental fishes are also called “live jewels” for their beautiful colors and playful behavior (Swati et al., 2017). The ornamental fishes are classified into vast categories based on their spawning habit which includes oviparous fishes that lay eggs and a few are livebearers (Devraj, 1989). \r\nMollies are one of the important commercial freshwater ornamental fish. Mollies are viviparous. Some of the famous varieties of molly fishes are usually located in aquariums worldwide. The male can attain up to the size of 7-8cm and the female up to 9 cm. It favors water with an impartial pH toward barely alkaline (pH 7.5-8.2), and temperature in the range of 18-28°C (Riehl and Baensch, 1996). Although a number of the species of Black mollies have splashes of yellow and orange on the fins and belly region. Overall all the black mollies are all covered in black shadeation only. Black Molly (Poecilia sphenops) belongs to the family of Poeciliidae and is one of the pinnacle commercially vital freshwater ornamental fish species that can resist mass-cultured in captivity (Francis, 1992; George & Pandian 1995; Beck et al., 2003). Black molly is an euryhaline fish (Beck et al, 2003) that stay certainly in a brackish water ecosystem (Johnson, 1981) and is native from Mexico to Central America. This precise fish is created through humans thru the cross-breeding, or hybridization, of the Common Molly and the Sail fin Molly. Male black molly has a tendency to be mildly competitive than the other mollies, Black Molly has a tendency to be a little sensitive in relation to changes in water. The black molly is a really tolerant species, which seems to be extremely prolific and adaptable. It can live in fresh as well as saltwater and is tolerant of salinities as high as 87 ppt (Sublette et al. 1990).\r\nMATERIALS AND METHOD\r\nStudy the breeding technique of a molly fish: Mollies become reproductive at a very young age and do not require special breeding conditions instead a clean tank with warm water is the best habitat to them to reproduced (Divya, 2018). Molly is a live bearer species, which means they can directly give birth to young-ones. To breed any species of molly, the sex ratio should be of one pair or a ratio of 1 male and 3 female or 1 male and 1 female. Since they are live bearer species, they do not lay eggs instead give birth to young free swimming fry (Siddiky and Mondal 2016). 8 pairs of molly fish were brought from the commercial fish shop (ornamental fish) and released in aquarium in September 2021. During the stocking time fishes were well acclimatized and all the water parameters such as pH, temperature, nitrate, phosphate, ammonia and alkalinity were within ideal range. \r\nOnce the male of both the species starts to mature their anal fins starts to develop a structure for reproduction called as Gonadopodium. The Gonadopodium can be moved in almost any direction and stores the sperm in packs called sperm metamorphosis. Once the sperm is inserted into the female fish and fertilizes its eggs and the rest is stored in the oviduct walls for later use (Siddiky and Mondal 2016).\r\nIn light colored species of molly, pregnancy can be recognized by growing dark colored body marking in front of their anal fin or also can identified from their enlarged abdomen. Their movement tends to become slow and they start hiding under the plants of an aquarium. The breeding cycle in mollies usually remains for approximately 3 to 6 weeks (20 to 40 days). Young Live-bearers are fairly large at birth and their development is very advanced. Once the young live bearers are out from the female body, they tend to swim right away or else they can get eaten live by the parent female fish or the other fishes present in the tank. Hence the fry fishes are kept in a separated tank after birth. The fry can grow very rapidly and accept fine flake food. The number of fry a female fish can give birth to numbers of fry depending up the sizes of the fishes. A large pregnant fish can give birth up to 100 fry, whereas a small pregnant fish can give birth up 65-80 fry (Divya, 2018). Warm water will speed the metabolism of baby mollies, encouraging them to eat more, which in turn will speed up their growth. Livebearers fishes should be provided with plenty of floating flakes and some live food as well to supplement their diet and to give them larger and healthier fry. As always remove any uneaten food after 5 minutes (Siddiky and Mondal 2016).\r\n Ideal Conditions: Dattasubhendu (2017). Aquarium water quality management.\r\nRESULT AND DISCUSSION\r\nAn experiment on breeding of molly fish were conducted in a glass aquarium, where the ratio of the female and male taken was 2:1 (black molly fish) and 1:1 (common molly). A similar study was done by Siddiky and Mondal (2016) for 3 to 4 weeks in a glass aquarium and tanks to study on Breeding technique of goldfish (Carassius auratus), molly (Poecilia sphenops), guppy (Poecilia reticulata), (Sudha, 2012). Similar studies were done by Naik (2020) on three different species of molly, Black, White and Sailfin Poecilia species originating from Central and North-Eastern South America, required for the experiments were obtained from ornamental fish traders of Ratnagiri and Mumbai during the months from April 2016 to March 2017. Another experiment was conducted for 3 to 4 weeks in glass aquarium tanks to study the Breeding technique of molly (Poecilia sphenops) by Divya (2018). Molly starts breeding at the age of 4 months. The sex ratio was taken slightly differently in jars of three sets that are 1 female 2 male, 1 female, and 2 males and 2 females with one male. \r\nNumber of young ones. During the entire study period, a total of 36 fry were observed after the successful spawning. The size of the fry ranged between 7.0 mm to 1 cm in length. A similar observation also found by Moshayedi et al. (2015) in newly hatched fries was 9.83 ± 0.83 and 15.74 ± 0.34 mm in TL on 1 and 30 DAB, respectively. Black molly were spawn in night hrs so that the number of fry in black molly were less than the common molly fry because of predation. After the fry was found they were put in a separate tank with only a bubble diffuser, to allow them to breathe easily. Fry was provided with crushed feeds, so it is easy for them to intake in their mouth. Within 8-10 days, the identification of male and female fry was observed.\r\nDevelopment of fins. The molly fish larvae all developed fins are simply found during the study period. A similar study on guppy larvae was also seen with all observable fins such as other poeciliids (Wourms, 1981). The young fry swims freely just after spawning and similar observation were found in other livebearers that at the moment of birth, each fry was fully capable of swimming, eating, and avoiding danger (Shikano & Fujio 1997; Shahjahan et al., 2013). \r\nIt has been found that the anal fin in each of the sexes of molly becomes modified eight days from the spawning. The anal fin modifications in each sex of P. reticulata had been found on day-23, even as Shahjahan et al. (2013) stated those modifications on day-21. The anal fin inside the case of a female is small and rounded, even as inside the case of a male it is long and pointed. Day after birth, the pelvic fin is smaller than the pectoral fin, and the caudal fin has a rounded edge. The caudal fin has extra development and truly seems like a tail on the third day after spawning, even as Shahjahan et al. (2013) found it on day-7. Pelvic and anal fins have extra developments, which might be comparable with Shahjahan et al. (2013) observation, which showed that the anal fin in each sex continues to be comparable till day-15. The anal fin modifications in each sex of P. reticulata had been found on day- 23, even as Shahjahan et al (2013) stated those modifications on day-21. One month after birth, the base of the caudal fin is darkish and the abdomen turns swollen in females, even as those traits had been reported on day-28 by Shahjahan et al. (2013). \r\n','Archana Naganyal and Prakriti Dwivedi (2022). Breeding of Molly Fish and Sexual Dimoephrism of Young Ones in Early Stage of their Life Cycle. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 14(2): 741-744.'),(4947,'125','RAPD Analysis of Powdery Mildew Mycoparasite Ampelomyces quisqualis and its Genetic Polymorphism','S. Keerthana*, V. Sendhilvel and T. Raguchander','128 RAPD Analysis of Powdery Mildew Mycoparasite Ampelomyces quisqualis and its Genetic Polymorphism S. Keerthana.pdf','',1,'Powdery mildew diseases caused by Erysiphales fungi are major threat in fruits and vegetable cultivation. The different genera of powdery mildew fungi are serving the host for mycoparasitic fungi and which are diversified in nature. To study the polymorphism of mycoparasite viz., Ampelomyces quisqualis, the randomly amplified polymorphic DNA RAPD-PCR analysis was carried out to assess the genetic diversity of twenty isolates of A. quisqualis from various powdery mildew hosts in different geographical regions of Tamil Nadu. A total of ten oligonucleotide random primers were used (OPA 1 to 5, OPB01, and OPF 2 to 4) in this study. The operon series primers (OPA 1, 3, 5), OPB 3 and 10 effectively differentiated and showed reproducible banding patterns. The Unweighted Pair Group Method of Arithmetic Means (UPGMA) dendrogram constructed genetic distance produced 2 main clusters (3 isolates in cluster I and 17 isolates in Cluster II). Cluster I comprises of AQTNAU-DST01, 02 and 03. The isolates of AQTNAU-DST8 to16, AQTNAU-DST18 and 20 are separated into sub cluster 1; AQTNAU-DST04 to 07, 18 and 20 in sub cluster 2 clubbed together and formed Clade II in Hierarchy cluster analysis. The Hierarchical Cluster Analysis (HCA) based clustering of isolates showed 58-86% similarity with reference to RAPD. Non-metric Multi-dimensional scaling (MDS) plot resulted that AQTNAU-DST01, 02 and 03 are clustered in same line. Finally, our results indicate that RAPD are sensitive and give reproducible results for assaying the genetic variability among the Ampelomyces spp. and RAPD marker was reliable and could be utilized to establish the genetic relatedness of Ampelomyces spp.','Variability studies, RAPD analysis, Ampelomyces isolates','RAPD primers were used to evaluate the genetic diversity of twenty Ampelomyces mycoparasite isolates from diverse powdery mildew hosts in Tamil Nadu. The genetic similarity coefficients showed that any two or more isolates were identical. Twenty isolates had up to 90% genetic diversity, according to RAPD profiles. The results of this study show that the isolates obtained from various geographical areas have a significant level of genetic diversity. The RAPD profile revealed regional variation due to diverse powdery mildew hosts.','INTRODUCTION\r\nOkra (Abelmoschus esculentus (L.) Moench), generally known as lady\'s finger or bhendi, is a popular vegetable all over the world. It is a member of the Malvaceae family. It is a major vegetable crop in India, and its notable varieties are commercially farmed in many areas of the world for its delicious taste and high nutritional content (Benchasri, 2012). In India, a variety of fungal, bacterial, and viral diseases have been recorded causing damage to the bhendi crop. Diseases are a key limitation to lower the bhendi yields (Sastry and Singh, 1974). Among them, powdery mildew is one of the most destructive disease and cause 65% yield loss. The genera of different powdery mildew fungi, obligate biotrophic pathogens are causing infection more than 10,000 host plant species. To protect the crops from powdery mildew infection, fungicides are indiscriminately applied frequently with inadequate dosage which cause fungicide resistance against powdery mildew fungi. In addition to that the fungicide are causing harmful effect on biodiversity, natural ecosystem and possess the residual problem (Maurya et al., 2013). Physical and biological approaches have been proposed to support and replace chemical management of powdery mildews. Mycoparasites (fungi that parasitize other fungi) are abundant in the majority of terrestrial environments, with the most well-known species attacking fungal plant diseases (Kiss 2003). Numerous mycoparasites have been investigated extensively and economically used as crop disease biocontrol agents (BCAs) (Viterbo and Horwitz 2010). A. quisqualis is a unique mycoparasite of Erysiphales (Angeli et al., 2013), and it is classified as an endoparasitic fungus because its conidia (pycnidiospores or spores, as some authors refer to them) penetrate into Erysiphe cichoracearum and generate pycnidia inside powdery mildew structures (Romero et al., 2003). Molecular studies have shown that the mycoparasities are genetically diverse (Szentivanyi et al., 2005). All of these studies were analysed on the basis of the nuclear ribosomal DNA gene internal transcribed spacer (ITS) region (rDNA). Ampelomyces spp. have a phylogenetic position in the order Dothideales, according to Kiss et al., 1998. In the Dothideales, Ampelomyces ITS sequences and other ascomygetous fungus established two lineages (Arenal et al., 2000). The primary goal of this research was to determine the genetic variability in twenty isolates of Ampelomyces spp. from different ecosystems were evaluated with ten different RAPD markers.\r\nMATERIALS AND METHODS\r\nIsolation of mycoparasite. Ampelomyces isolates were isolated from powdery mildew-infested plants collected around Tamil Nadu. Effective 20 Ampelomyces isolates (Table 1) were selected based on mycoparasitic and plant growth promotion activity. All the cultures of ten isolates were maintained on liquid culture media (Potato Dextrose broth, PDB) for 7 days at 28±1ºC in a shaker and its DNA analyzed for genetic variability. \r\nGenetic analysis \r\nDNA extraction. Pure cultures of the Ampelomyces isolates were maintained on PDA slants and incubated at 25±1°C for 7 days under controlled temperature. Mycelia were aseptically transferred to flasks of potato-dextrose broth (PDB, HI Media) and incubated for 5 days at 25±1°C. The mycelia were filtered from the liquid medium for the extraction of DNA. The CTAB method (Moller et al. 1992) was used to extract genomic DNA (gDNA) from each isolate, which was then measured using a Nano Drop 1000 spectrophotometer (Thermo Scientific). Ampelomyces cultures were identified molecularly using the conserved ribosomal internal transcribed spacer (ITS) region. Using the universal primer pairs ITS1 (5′-TCCGTAGGTGAACCTGCGG-3′) and ITS4 (5′-\r\nTCCTCCGCTTATTGATATGC-3′), we amplified the ITS regions between the small nuclear 18S rDNA and the large nuclear 28S rDNA, including 5.8S rDNA. Amplification was carried out on a Thermal Cycler (Applied Biosystems 9700) using 25 µl reaction mixtures comprising 2.5 µl of 10X buffer (10 mMTris–HCl, pH 8.8); 2.5 mM MgCl2; 2 mM each dNTP; 25 pmolmM primer (ITS-1 and ITS-4); 1U Taq DNA Polymerase; and 60–100 ng genomic DNA. The amplification cycle initial denaturation at 95 °C for 10 min followed by 35 cycles at 94 °C for 30 s, 60 °C for 45sec and 72°C for 1 min and a final extension at 72°C for 8 min. Separation of amplified PCR products on an agarose gel (1.5 percent w/v) in 1X TAE buffer at 75 V for 90 minutes. \r\nStudying the genetic variability among the isolates of A. quisqualis using RAPD marker. Ten RAPD primers were used to determine the genetic diversity of twenty A. quisqualis isolates (Tables 1 and 2). DNA 25 ng/l, 10X buffer (containing 2.5 mmol l-1 MgCl2) - 2 µl, 2 mmol l-1d NTP mixture - 2µl, 2 mol l-1 primer - 5 µl, Taq DNA polymerase 3U and sterile water - 8 l make up the PCR reaction. PCR amplification was performed in a thermocycler (Nexus PCR Mastercycler gradient) using the PCR conditions mentioned in Table 1 (Gaitan-Solis et al., 2002). The amplified PCR products were run on a 1.5 percent agarose gel to separate the amplified products by primer sequence. The gels were then separately visualised using UV transilluminators and photographed in the Gel Doc EZ Imager (Bio-Rad, Hayward, California).\r\n \r\nCluster analysis. The genetic similarity of twenty Ampelomyces isolates was assessed, based on RAPD data, using S17 Bray-Curtis similarity (Jaccard 1908). Based on RAPD data, the genetic similarity of twenty Ampelomyces isolates was analysed using S17 Bray-Curtis similarity (Jaccard 1908). The unweighted pair group technique of arithmetical averages (UPGMA) algorithm was then used to create a dendrogram from the data. The presence/absence of bands in fingerprint profiles was analysed using the PRIMER 7 statistical software (Plymouth Routines in Multivariate Ecological Research, version 7.0.9; PRIMER-E, Plymouth, UK). The Bray–Curtis coefficient was used to calculate similarities between each pair of samples, resulting in a similarity matrix (Clarke, 1993). The similarity data was ordinated using non-metric multi-dimensional scaling (MDS). MDS ordination produces a map in which each sample\'s position is decided by its distance from all other points in the analysis. The plot\'s stress indicates how much distortion was created to allow the data to be represented in the specified dimensions. A stress value of more than 0.2 implies a plot that is close to random, less than 0.2 offers a useful two-dimensional representation, and less than 0.1 represents an ideal ordination with no significant risk of misinterpretation (Clarke, 1993). Within PRIMER 7, stress was calculated as stated by Kruskal (1964). The similarity matrix using the Bray– Curtis coefficient was also analysed by Hierarchical Cluster Analysis (HCA), a classification method that aims to group discrete clusters based on similarity, to visualise the relationship between different isolates of A. quisqualis using RAPD. Using PRIMER 7 software, a dendrogram was generated from the prioritised similarities using a weighted, group average linkage agglomerative technique.\r\nThe effectiveness of RAPD molecular markers on assessing the genetic variability of isolates of E. cichoracearum\r\nThe analysis included bands that were common to all isolates. By counting the number of bands formed by each primer in all twenty isolates, the characteristics of banding pattern, such as total number of bands, number of monomorphic, polymorphic bands per primer, and percent polymorphism, were calculated. In addition, the RAPD and ISSR markers assay efficiency index (AEI = Polymorphic bands/Total number of primers) was recorded.\r\nAnderson et al. 1993 devised a method to quantify polymorphism information content (PIC). Each locus\' PIC value was estimated as follows:\r\nPICj= 1– ∑l=1to LP2lj\r\nPlj is the relative frequency of the lth allele for the locus j, and it is averaged across all alleles (L) throughout all lines. The PIC calculates a locus discriminating power by taking into consideration not just the number of alleles expressed, but also the relative frequencies of those alleles. With numerous loci in equal frequency, PIC values might vary from 0 (monomorphic) to 1 (very discriminative).\r\nEMR (E) = np (np/n)\r\nwhere np denotes polymorphic loci and n denotes the total number of loci (Sornakili et al., 2017).\r\nThe Marker Index (MI) was calculated by multiplying the PIC by the number of polymorphic bands per assay unit, and the Effective Multiplex Ratio (EMR) was calculated by multiplying the proportion of polymorphic loci by the number of polymorphic loci for each assay\r\nRESULTS AND DISCUSSION \r\nThe present study is the first extensive investigation of quantitative aspects of a mycoparasite A. quisqualis in different host range from different districts of Tamil Nadu.\r\nGenetic variability analysis of isolates of A. quisqualis by RAPD marker. DNA markers have turned into a very useful tool for studying the taxonomy of species. The random amplified polymorphic DNA (RAPD) approach, which is based on the polymerase chain reaction (PCR), is one of the most frequently used molecular techniques for the development of DNA markers (Levi et al., 2001). It enables rapid assessment of genetic variability across taxonomic groups and has been used to investigate inter- and intraspecific variability among isolates of many fungal species utilized in biological control (Tiganoet al., 1995). In this present study, RAPD analysis was performed on twenty isolates of A. quisqualiswas amplified using 10 RAPD primers. The ten primers amplified products ranging in size from 0.2 to 1.5 kb. The vast majority of ten RAPD primers showed a moderate level of polymorphism. Three primers viz., OPA5, OPA7 and OPF6 produced fragment profiles showing at least one amplicon common to all isolates of A. quisqualis (Fig. 2). \r\nTwo-dimensional Non-metric Multi-Dimensional Scaling (MDS) plot using the Bray-Curtis similarity index ordinating the samples using the data from RAPD discriminated A. quisqualis from each isolates (Fig. 2a). The different isolates of A. quisqualis were evenly distributed in the MDS plot with less Kruskal’s stress (0.09). The isolates A. quisqualis AQTNAU-DST16, 18 and 20 are slackly different placed in the MDS plot, which shared different ordination. Six isolates of A. quisqualis viz., AQTNAU-DST10 to 15 shared the same similarity of coordination in the plot.\r\nThis results commensurate with Rajalakshmi et al., (2016) described the (MDS) plot using the Bray-Curtis similarity index for different isolates of C. globosum were with Kruskal’s stress values of 0.07. The isolates of A. quisqualis (AQTNAU-DST04-07, AQTNAU-DST17 and AQTNAU-DST19) show separate cluster similarity of 58%. Isolates of AQTNAU-DST11 and AQTNAU-DST12 shows 86% similarity followed by AQTNAU-DST01 and AQTNAU-DST03 showed 83% similarity cluster. Genetic diversity using AFLP markers in this fungus was also explored earlier (Aggarwal et al., 2003), showing that five C. globosum isolates formed two distinct clusters, one comprising isolates Cg6, Cg7 and Cg8, and the other encompassing isolates Cg1 and Cg5.\r\nTo depict genetic relationships in the form of a dendrogram, a genetic similarity estimate (S17 Bray Curtis coefficient) based on RAPD banding pattern was performed for cluster analysis. In this Dendrogram, HCA-based clustering of isolates showed 55-85 % similarity. The studied isolates were clearly classified into two groups based on the dendrogram. Cluster A, the first group, consisted of three isolates: AQTNAU-DST01, AQTNAU-DST02, and AQTNAU-DST03. Cluster B, which contained two sub clusters including AQTNAU-DST08 to AQTNAU-DST16, 18 and 20were clubbed and formed sub cluster 1 whereas AQTNAU DST 04 – 07, 17 and 19 clustered together to form sub cluster 2. The present study\'s findings corroborate those of Delye et al., (1997), who described the diversification of Ampelomyces. The RAPD markers were able to distinguish all isolates at 94% similarity level. Similar results were also obtained in previous researchers (Zimand et al., 1994; Hermosa et al., 2001; Grendene et al., 2002). \r\nEffectiveness of RAPD marker in assessing the genetic variability of A. quisqualis isolates. PIC scores of each primer ranged from 0.56 (OPA-05) to 0.91 (OPG-11), with an average of 0.67. The EMR value ranged from 3.20 (OPA-05, OPA-07 and OPA-09) to 7.11 (OPG-05), with an average of 4.36 indicating hyper variability among the individuals studied. To determine the overall usefulness of a given marker system, the marker index (MI) was calculated for RAPD with an average value of 2.95 was determined per primer (Table 3). The estimates of MI were found to be highest for primer OPG-05 (5.05) and the lowest with the primer OPA-05 (1.79). Singh and Sengar et al., 2015 showed that the analysis of RAPD indicated RAPD gave maximum PIC values of 0.9925. RAPD primer OPF-13 gave the maximum accessions coverage depending on the value of PIC in the rice genome. Rakhonde et al. (2015) reported that genetic variability (RAPD primers) among eighteen Indian isolates of Fusarium oxysporum f. sp. ciceri causing wilt in chickpea. The PIC value ranged from 0.504 to 0.926 across eighteen isolates of Fusarium oxysporum f. sp. ciceri indicating high degree of variation in respect to genetic similarity. This findings are in accordance with El Komy et al., (2015) studied the genetic diversity of Trichoderma sp by RAPD fingerprinting and the data exhibited a wide range of genetic similarity coefficients (0.443 to 0.944) with an average of 0.76.\r\n','S. Keerthana, V. Sendhilvel and T. Raguchander (2022). RAPD Analysis of Powdery Mildew Mycoparasite Ampelomyces quisqualis and its Genetic Polymorphism. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 14(2): 745-750.'),(4948,'125','Utilization Pattern of Farm Television among the Rural Farmers','Radhika Tanwar*, Nitesh Kumar Tanwar, Naresh Kumawat and N.K. Sharma','129 Utilization Pattern of Farm Television among the Rural Farmers Vinay Kardam.pdf','',1,'Effective communication on farm information is playing important role in rural development. Farmers in India live in remote and in scattered villages where the interaction is hardly possible. The agriculture educators utilize television as a powerful communication medium for reaching far across the nation. We need to adopt technologies that will enhance our delivery system and utilization of farm television. A study was conducted in Dudu and Jhotwara panchayats with randomly selected 120 televiewers of Jaipur district. Investigator collected the responses through structured schedule from primary source. The responses were classified and analyzed using simple statistics and it was observed that majority of farmers (38.33%) had been getting information through farm T.V. from 1-2 years and mostly farmers (45.00%) claimed that they use farm T.V. for 1-2 hours per day. The ‘Choupal’ programme of Doordarshan Kendra, Jaipur was viewed regularly by 60.00 per cent farmers although, majority of farmers (56.60%) strongly agree that “Farm T.V. disintegrate information to a greater chunk of the people irrespective of their geographic location”. Most respondents gathered information regarding sowing methods of various crops (MPS 79.33) through Television and the majority of farmers (52.50%) under the category ‘Often’ of improved farming methods transmitted through television, majority of farmers (59.17%) were from middle level of utilization.','Agriculture educators, communication, utilization, televiewer','Based on the findings of the study, it was found that that majority of farmers (38.33%) had been getting information through farm T.V. from 1-2 years and mostly farmers (45.00%) claimed that they use farm T.V. for 1-2 hours per day. The ‘Choupal’ programme of Doordarshan Kendra, Jaipur was regularly viewed by 60.00 per cent farmers although, majority of farmers (56.60%) strongly agree that “Farm T.V. disseminates information to larger percentage of the people irrespective of their location”. Most of the respondents got information often about sowing methods of different crops (MPS 79.33) through TV and the majority of farmers (52.50%) under the category ‘Often’ of improved farming methods transmitted through television, majority of farmers (59.17%) were from middle level of utilization.','INTRODUCTION\r\nIndia is a vast country and agriculture is the main occupation of the rural people. Indian agriculture makes 14.2 per cent of India’s GDP and approximately 60 per cent Indians have their livelihood dependent on agricultural sector. During the past two decades almost all sectors have changed their strategies in view of global competition but farmers still work with the age old concept for information dissemination. There is still a long wait for introduction of technology among grass level workers and adopted villages. ICTs refer to the technology people use to share, distribute, gather information and communicate, through computers and computer networks. ICTs are a complex and diverse set of goods, applications and services used to produce, distribute, process, convert information - [including] telecommunications, broadcast and TV and radio, hardware and software, computer resources and electronic media (Marcelle, 2000). The present age has been rightly termed as an ‘informational age’. Information plays a pivotal role and its large scale spread via preferred communication media is considered as one of the most remarkable events of our time. Our mundane life revolves around information. Our generation crave for authentic and accurate information as early as possible. This important craving of information is catered by mass media namely newspaper, television and radio. For the rapid and overall development, the citizens of the country should be well versed with the happenings around them regarding anything and everything.\r\nTo change the behaviour of the receiver, communication portrays a vital angle. No executive can be successful without effective communication with subordinates or the superiors. Information could be in the form of the symbols, signs, words, letters or actions. All the management experts have emphasized the importance of communication in professional as well as personal lives. Communication is an inevitable part of individual’s life as well as organizational existence. The agriculture educators have no doubt that use of television will help us tap into the hidden potential of harnessing information far across the nation. While television displays words with pictures and listening atmosphere like movie, T.V. has the capability to reach large number of people in the minute possible time. People gain greater knowledge and understanding of the subject through this audio-visual method of information decimation.\r\nAlthough T.V. is now an established medium, with the development of colors in television one tends to seek more information out of it. The boon in television industries has greatly affected the medium of information transmission. Now television has become one of the most critical media of mass communication for rural masses. Television plays a vital role in transferring latest technological know-how to the ach and every individual. As most of the rural places are reclused in India, it becomes conundrum to share information. In such situations television plays an important role in reaching large number of people in no time. Television, at present, has become the most powerful medium to share accurate and adequate information. Television can bring the world to our door steps within seconds. Television has change the media of transmission of information in an unprecedented manner which has affected millions of lives in a positive way.\r\nMETERIALS AND METHODS\r\nA. Study Area\r\nCurrent study was performed in Jaipur region (Jaipur District) of Rajasthan which had Doordarshan Kendra, Jaipur. From the selected district, by using simple random sampling, two panchayat samities (Dudu and Jhotwara) were randomly selected. From the selected panchayat samities, 6 villages from each panchayat samiti were selected by using simple random sampling for study purpose.\r\nB. Sampling procedure & Sample size\r\nFrom the selected 12 villages. By random sampling technique 120 respondents were selected for study purpose.\r\nC. Data Collection\r\nThe investigator collected data from primary source. The collected data was analyzed by using three categories Low, Medium and High utilization on the basis of mean and standard deviation. Mean is basically average which calculated as total score divided by the number of farmers. The standard deviation measures the absolute dispersion of variability of distribution.\r\nIn present study television utilization by farmers has been operationalized as the utilization of farm television, which constitutes use of farm television by the farmers, frequency of preservation of farm message, importance of farm television in information dissemination, benefits derived from use of farm T.V. by farmers, nature of information obtained from T.V. and experimental farm crops /methods transmitted through media. In light of the suggestions of the experts and the scoring procedure suggested by the experts a schedule was developed by the investigator which was used for measuring the level of utilization of farm T.V. Total score secured by each respondent was determined. The respondents were divided into three categories Low, Medium and High awareness on the basis of mean and standard deviation of their utilization score as shown in Table 1.\r\nFrequency and percentage of farmers in each category of ‘Low’, ‘Medium’ and ‘high’ utilization was computed. To rightly find out the significance of difference in level of utilization between Dudu and Jhotwara respondents Coefficient of Correlation was also applied and results were drawn accordingly.\r\nRESULT AND DISCUSSION\r\nTable 2 shows that 38.33 per cent of farmers used to receive information from Farm T.V. for 1-2 years, while 32.50 per cent agreed that they utilize farm T.V. and had been getting information from farm T.V. for about 3-5 years. In terms of per day use, majority of the farmers 54 (45.00%) claimed that they utilize farm T.V. for 1-2 hours per day. This might be due to paucity of time or lack of motivation towards agricultural programmes. The present findings are in accordance with the findings of Chhachhar et al. (2012) who found that the habit of watching television daily among farmers shows that, 61.3% of the respondents spent watching television 3-4 hours per day watching television, 24.00% watch television 1-2 hours daily, while remaining 14.7% watched television daily 5-6 hours per day.\r\nA. Responses regarding viewing of different farm television programmes\r\nThe data presented in Table 3 revealed that out of different programmes on T.V., the ‘Choupal’ programme was ‘Regularly’ viewed by 60.00 per cent of the respondents, followed by ‘Kisan Prashan Manch’, ‘Mandi.com’, ‘Krishi Darshan’, ‘Jhanki Gaun-Gaun ki’, ‘Hello Kisan’, ‘Baat Rajyo Ki’ ‘Chhat par Baghwani’, ‘Kisano Ke Mahanayak’, ‘Ghumte- Phirte’, ‘Waah Kisan’, ‘Vichar-vimarsh’, ‘Khet Khalihaan’, ‘Kisan Samachar’, ‘Choupal Charcha’ programmes of Doordarshan Kendra, Jaipur by 41.67 per cent, 39.16 per cent, 20.00 per cent, 16.67 per cent, 14.17 per cent, 13.33 per cent, 12.50 per cent, 12.50 per cent, 9.17 per cent, 7.50 per cent, 6.67 per cent, 5.00 per cent, 4.17 per cent, 3.33 per cent of farmers respectively, whereas the farmers to the tune of 52.50 per cent, 44.17 per cent, 43.33 per cent, 40.00 per cent, 36.67 per cent, 30.00 per cent, 28.33 per cent, 26.67 per cent, 26.67 per cent, 25.00 per cent, 25.00 per cent, 24.17 per cent, 24.17 per cent, 21.67 per cent, 16.67 per cent frequently viewed the T.V. programmes like ‘Vichar-vimarsh’, ’Mandi.com’, ‘Krishi Darshan’, ‘Jhank iGaun-Gaun ki’, ‘Kisan Prashan Manch’, ‘Chaupal Charcha’ ‘Hello Kisan’, ‘Chhat par baghwani’, ‘Baat Rajyon Ki’, ‘Choupal’, ‘Ghumte- Phirte’, ‘Waah Kisan’, ‘Kisano Ke Mahanayak’, ‘Khet Khalihaan’ and ‘Kisan Samachar’, respectively.\r\nSimilarly the ‘Khet Khalihaan’, ‘Choupal Charcha’, ‘Kisan Samachar’, ‘Hello Kisan’, ‘Vichar-vimarsh’, ‘Baat Rajyon Ki’, ‘Kisano Ke Mahanayak’, ‘Chhat par Baghwani’, ‘Ghumte- Phirte’, ‘Waah Kisan’, ‘Krishi Darshan’, ‘Jhanki Gaun-Gaun ki’, ‘Kisan Prashan Manch’, ’Mandi.com’ and ‘Choupal’ programmes were viewed occasionally by the 50.00 per cent, 35.83 per cent, 35.00 per cent, 34.17 per cent, 34.16 per cent, 31.67 per cent, 30.83 per cent, 30.83 per cent, 29.17 per cent, 27.50 per cent, 25.00 per cent, 23.33 per cent, 12.50 per cent, 6.67 per cent and 5.83 per cent farmers, respectively. However, 44.16 per cent, 40.83 per cent, 36.66 per cent, 32.50 per cent, 30.83 per cent, 30.00 per cent, 28.33 per cent, 23.33 per cent, 23.34 per cent, 20.00 per cent, 11.67 per cent, 10.00 per cent, 9.17 per cent, 9.16 per cent and 6.67 per cent of farmers never viewed ‘Kisan Samachar’, ‘Waah Kisan’, ‘Ghumte- Phirte’, ‘Kisano Ke Mahanayak’, ‘Kisan Prashan Manch’, ‘Chhat par Baghwani’, ‘Baat Rajyon Ki’, ‘Hello Kisan’, ‘Khet Khalihaan’, ‘Jhanki Gaun-Gaun ki’, ‘Krishi Darshan’, ’Mandi.com’, ‘Choupal’, ‘Kisan Prashan Manch’ and ‘Vichar-vimarsh’ programmes of Doordarshan Kendra, Jaipur. Thus it could be concluded that majority of the farmers viewed either ‘Regularly’ or ‘Frequently’ programmes of Doordarshan Kendra, Jaipur. It might be because of high inclination of farmers towards entertainment programmes on T.V.\r\nOne report also says that, some farmers regularly view farm related programmes on T.V, according to Sharvan et al. (2009); Jhajharia et al. (2012). On the importance of Farm television in information dissemination as revealed in table 4 it depicts that 68 farmers (56.60%) strongly agreed and 48 farmers (40%) agreed that “Farm T.V. disseminates information to larger percentage of the people irrespective of their location” while 2 farmers (1.7%) each disagreed and strongly disagreed with 3.51 mean values, hence this statement was ranked first.\r\nThis was followed by 56 farmers (46.7%) who strongly agreed and (64.00%) farmers agreed that “The level of awareness of the people on socio-political and economic issues was developed by television?” respectively, while 2 farmers (1.70%) each disagreed and strongly disagreed with 3.40 mean value, hence this statement was ranked second together with 56 farmers (46.7%) each who strongly agreed and agreed that “It enables people to get acquaintance with the activities of the government?” while 6 farmers (5.00%) disagreed and 2 farmers (1.70%) strongly disagreed respectively, with 3.38 mean value, hence this statement was ranked third. This was followed by 46 farmers (38.3%) who strongly agreed and 70 farmers (58.3%) agreed that “Through television, I watch news and current affairs” while 2 farmers (1.70%) disagreed and strongly disagreed respectively, with 3.35 mean value, 42 farmers (35.00%) strongly agreed and 74 farmers (61.7%) agreed that “Through Television, people can see and get involved in discussion of domestic and overseas issues (Through video conferencing and phone in programme)” while 2 farmers (1.7%) each disagreed and strongly disagreed with 3.30 mean value, 50 farmers (41.66%) who strongly agreed and 60 farmers (50.00%) agreed that “Latest technical knowhow in agriculture and allied fields is telecast through T.V.” while 5 farmers (4.17%) each disagreed and strongly disagreed with 3.29 mean value and 34 farmers (28.3%) who strongly agreed and 80 farmers (66.70%) agreed that “T.V. is a source where we can learn through teaching by doing” while 4 farmers (3.30%) disagreed and 2 farmers (1.70%) strongly disagreed respectively, with 3.21 mean value, followed by 34 farmers (28.3%) strongly agreed and 80 farmers (66.7%) agreed that “T.V. presents case studies and success stories of progressive farmers” while 3 farmers (2.50%) disagreed and 2 farmers (1.7%) strongly disagreed respectively, with 3.19 mean values, hence this statement was ranked eighth. Therefore, it can be concluded that Farm T.V. is an important tool in spreading awareness and information. Familusi et al. (2014) believed T.V. as one of the dynamic and modern media of spreading information owing to the fact that it delivers information in a dramatic audio and visual manner to an extensive audience base; Television provides greater coverage any other communication media which makes it a most sought-after medium of information dissemination.\r\nChhachher et al. (2012) studied that (54.3%) respondents among farmers believed that information dissemination was not done mainly by television.\r\nThe data in Table 5 shows majority of farmers (53.33%) belong to medium category of benefit derived from use of Farm T.V., whereas 25.83 per cent and 20.84 per cent farmers belong to low and high benefit derived from use of Farm T.V., respectively. The farmers belonging to high benefit derived from use of farm T.V. were greater in Jhotwara panchayat samiti (23.33 %) relative to Dudu panchayat samiti (18.33%) however the farmers percentage of low benefit derived from use of farm T.V. of were also greater in Jhotwara panchayat samiti (30.00%) compared to Dudu panchayat samiti.\r\nTelevision is an important source of mass communication. Through T.V. any information is provided to a large number of people. Sobalaje et al. (2013) also have similar findings. Information of diversified nature is delivered by agricultural telecasts, which adds value to various farmers with varying interests. Specific information retrieved from the respondents are given in Table 6, which highlight that maximum farmers received information ‘often’ regarding sowing time of different crops (MPS 79.33), relatively less number of farmers gathered information regarding fertilizers/manures (MPS 71.85), third area of focus appeared to be the protection of plants (MPS 68.85), and few farmers reported that agricultural telecasts covered crop varieties (MPS 53.00), whereas, information obtained on livestock was reported by farmers at last position with 44.14 MPS. The contribution of T.V. telecast with respect to information transmission on farm machinery (MPS 54.33) was also discouraging as in the case of livestock. Farmers got more and more information about crop’s showing time and showing methods because might be due to late in sowing time, farmers bear a lot of losses. The current findings are in accordance with the results of Sher Muhammad et al. (2004) who found out, most of farmers (48.80%) got information about sowing methods of different crops and only a few farmers (6.40%) reported that agricultural telecasts covered crop varieties.\r\nThe data presented in Table 7 indicate that the majority of farmers 63 (52.50%) under the category ‘Often’ of improved farming methods transmitted through television, whereas 37 (30.83 %) farmers under ‘Rarely’ improved farming methods transmitted through television. Jhajharia et al. (2012) strengthen the present finding.\r\nB. Level of utilization of farm T.V. programmes\r\nTo get an overview in the level of utilization of farm T.V., farmers were segregated in three categories i.e. low, medium and high level of utilization of farm T.V., on the basis of calculated mean and standard deviation of the access score obtained by the farmers.\r\nA perusal of data contained in Table 8 vividly present the fact that a majority of the total farmers, 59.17 per cent had medium level of utilization of farm T.V. It was followed by 23.33 per cent farmers with high level of utilization, while 17.50 per cent farmers were reported under the category of low level of utilization of farm T.V.\r\nFurther analysis of data in table 8 visualize that 56.67 per cent farmers of Dudu panchyat samiti and 61.67 per cent farmers of Jhotwara panchayat samiti had medium level of utilization of farm T.V. On the other hand, 25 per cent Dudu panchayat samiti’s farmers and 6.67 per cent Jhotwara panchayat samiti’s farmers were reported from low level of access category. It was further observed that 33.66 per cent Dudu panchayat samiti’s farmers and 10.00 per cent Jhotwara panchayat samiti’s farmers belonged to high level of utilization of farm T.V. With the result at hand it can be safely concluded that majority of farm T.V. users had medium to high level of utilization of farm T.V. It was further inferred that the level of utilization of Jhotwara panchayat samiti’s farmers was comparatively higher than the Dudu panchayat samiti’s farmers. It seems that better awareness of farm T.V. among the Jhotwara panchayat samiti’s farmers resulted in comparative higher utilization of farm T.V. The present findings are in accordance with the findings of Yadav et al. (2011) who found that a majority of the total respondents, 60.83 per cent had medium level of access to modern communication media. It was followed by 29.17 per cent respondents with low level of access, while 10 per cent respondents were reported under the category of high level of access to modern communication media.','Radhika Tanwar, Nitesh Kumar Tanwar, Naresh Kumawat and N.K. Sharma (2022). Utilization Pattern of Farm Television among the Rural Farmers. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 14(2): 751-756.'),(4949,'125','Variability among the different isolates of Sclerotium rolfsii Sacc. causing Stem Rot of Indian Bean','Ravikumar G. Vaniya*, Pushpendra Singh and A.J. Deshmukh','130 Variability among the different Isolates of Sclerotium rolfsii Sacc. causing Stem Rot of Indian Bean RAVIKUMAR G. VANIYA.pdf','',1,'Indian bean is one of the most ancient and important pulse crop in India. It is infected by several biotic and abiotic factors. Among the biotic factors, fungal diseases are the major constraints in reducing the yield. Among the fungal diseases stem rot of Indian bean caused by Sclerotium rolfsii Sacc. is exerting a major threat on Indian bean growers in South Gujarat. Sclerotium rolfsii Sacc. is one of the most important soil-borne plant pathogen which causes severe loss at the time of seedling development. It also causes stem rot or collar rot in several crops and wild plants. Due to the variability in virulence of the pathogen, farmers face a major challenge when managing the disease on the farm. Hence, the present study was taken up to assess the occurrence and variability of stem rot in major growing areas of South Gujarat. According to the survey results, stem rot incidence ranged from 7 to 30 per cent depending on location. In Navsari district, the highest disease incidence (30%) was recorded at NAU farm, Eru (Jalalpore), while the lowest incidence (7%) was recorded in Jamanpada (Chikhli). There was a wide range of variation among the eight isolates of S. rolfsii with regards to the various characteristics examined. These includes mycelial growth diameter, sclerotial numbers on plates, sclerotial weights and the size, shape and color of sclerotia. According to pathogenic variability for GNIB-21 and GNIB-22 varieties of Indian bean, highest degree of virulence was recorded for SrERU isolate (10.00), which took less number of days (10) and SrERU isolate (7.58), which took less number of days (12) for disease infection to plant. ','Sclerotium rolfsii Sacc., Indian bean, Morphological variability, Pathogenic variability','It is concluded that the Indian bean stem rot pathogen S. rolfsii possesses a wide range of cultural, morphological and pathogenic variability which helps it adapt and survive in diverse ecological situations and making it very difficult to manage during crop production which causing drastic losses to farmers.','INTRODUCTION\r\nIndian bean (Lablab purpureus L.) belonging to family Fabaceae, is one of the most ancient among the cultivated crops and is presently grown throughout the tropical regions in Asia, Africa and America. It is commonly known as Hyacinth bean, Dolichos bean, Avare (Kannada), Anumulu (Telugu), Avaria (Tamil), Indian bean, Lablab bean, Wal papdi (Gujarat) and Egyptian kidney bean. In India, the area under pulse crops is more than 176.17 lakh hectare and production is 93.14 lakh tonnes, with the productivity of 689 kg ha-1, as per 1st advanced estimates (DAC & FW) 2020-2021. \r\nIndian bean can be grown on a wide variety of soil types ranging from acidic to alkaline. Indian bean is primarily grown for green pods which are cooked as vegetables like others beans. The foliage of the crop provides nutritive hay, silage and green manure. It is also used in medicinal purpose (Smith, 1976).\r\nPlant diseases are one of the major constraints in crop production with drastic losses in the quality and quantity of the yield. Stem rot of Indian bean caused by Sclerotium rolfsii Sacc. has become a limiting factor to get production in South Gujarat. The species was first described in 1911 by Italian mycologist Pier Andrea Saccardo, based on specimens sent to him by Peter Henry Rolfs who considered the unnamed fungus to be the cause of tomato blight in Florida in 1892. S. rolfsii is a soil-borne pathogen that commonly occurs in the tropics, sub-tropics and other warm temperate regions of the world causing root rot, stem rot, wilt and foot rot on more than 500 plant species including almost all the agricultural and horticultural crops (Aycock, 1996). It is one of the most destructive soil inhabiting pathogen and causes heavy loss to the crops in both kharif and Rabi season. It is common where high temperatures exist during the rainy season. The present study was carried out for evaluating the cultural, morphological and pathogenic variability among the different isolates of S. rolfsii Sacc. causing stem rot of Indian bean collected from the different growing pockets viz., Surat, Navsari and Bharuch districts.\r\n \r\n\r\n\r\nMATERIALS AND METHODS\r\nA. Survey and symptomatology of Indian bean stem rot caused by S. rolfsii\r\n(i) Survey: An intensive survey was conducted to know the incidence of stem rot of Indian bean in Indian bean growing areas of South Gujarat viz., Surat, Navsari and Bharuch district. Random roving survey was followed for collecting the stem rot infected samples. The percent disease incidence (PDI) was calculated by following equation.\r\n \r\nFour Taluka of three Districts viz., Olpad of Surat, Jalalpore and Chikhli of Navsari and Amod of Bharuch district were selected under survey. The infected samples and data were collected from randomly four to five fields of two villages of each taluka. The information like variety, planting material used for isolation, location and isolates designation was also collected and tabulated.\r\nSymptomatology. The plants in the individual field were observed for the characteristic symptoms of stem rot caused by S. rolfsii. Indian bean plant showing the typical stem rot symptoms were collected and taken for further isolation.\r\nB. Collection and isolation of diseased samples, identification, mass multiplication and pathogenicity of the pathogen\r\nCollection and isolation of diseased samples. The isolation of fungus was done by following standard tissue isolation technique. The infected pieces were cut into small bits and then washing in running water. These bits were surface sterilized with 0.1 % Mercuric chloride (HgCl2) solution for one minute followed by washing in distilled sterile water, then aseptically transferred to PDA (Potato Dextrose Agar) plate and incubated at room temperature for seven days. From this fungal growth hyphal tip was used for further purification. Same procedure was followed to obtain the pure culture of S. rolfsii from all locations. The pure cultures that obtained were further stored in refrigerator for further investigation. \r\nIdentification of the Pathogen. The pathogen was identified based on the characters mentioned below.\r\n— Types of mycellial growth on PDA.\r\n— In early stages of the growth, mycelium colour and luster. \r\n— Sclerotial colour and shape of different sclerotial stages till maturity.\r\nMaintenance of the pure culture. The fungus was sub-cultured on the PDA slants and allowed to grow at 27±1 ºC temperature for one week and later the culture was stored in refrigerator for further studies and was sub cultured periodically.\r\nMass multiplication of S. rolfsii isolates. The study on mass multiplication of S. rolfsii was also conducted. A total eight numbers of isolates were multiplied on sorghum grains (200 gm) which was soaked overnight in water. About 200 gm of soaked sorghum grains were taken in 500 ml capacity conical flask tightly plugged. The conical flasks were then sterilized at 121°C for 20 min. After sterilization the sorghum seeds in conical flask were inoculated with the different eight isolates mycelial discs of five mm diameter from seven day old pure culture of S. rolfsii and flasks were incubated at 27°C ± 2°C for 15 days for mycelial growth.\r\nPathogenicity of the pathogen. The potting mixture was prepared by thoroughly mixing soil, sand and farm yard manure at 1:1:1 ratio. The inoculum of S. rolfsii grown on sorghum grain based medium were separately mixed with the sterilized soil filled in 30 cm earthen pots at 10 days before sowing. Surface sterilized indian bean seeds were sown at the rate 5-10 seeds per pot and the pot without inoculum served as control. Soil moisture was maintained at moisture holding capacity of soil by adding sterilized water throughout the period. The typical wilting symptoms were observed after 15-20 day of inoculation. Reisolation was made from such infected plant tissue and compared with that of original isolates for conformity.\r\nC. Variability among the different isolates of S. rolfsii\r\nStudies on morphological variation of different isolates. The experiment was conducted in order to study the variation in the morphological characters of different isolates of S. rolfsii. For this purpose, 15 ml of potato dextrose agar was poured into sterilized petriplate. Mycelial disc of 7 day old culture of the respective isolates was placed at the centre of the PDA plate. Three replications of each isolate and allow to grown at room temperature (27±1°C) and colony characters, like diameter, radial growth and concentric rings were recorded. The radial growth of the each isolates (in mm) was measured four days after inoculation. The radial growth of each colony in two directions at right angles was measured. Visual observations on sclerotial formation were recorded. The total number of sclerotia produced per plate, sclerotial test weight, diameter of sclerotial bodies, size, colour and shape of sclerotia of individual isolates were also recorded and analyzed statistically.\r\nVirulence of different isolates of S. rolfsii. A pot experiment was conducted in the glass house of Department of Plant Pathology, N. M. College of Agriculture, Navsari to find out virulence index of different isolates on two different varieties namely GNIB 21 and GNIB 22. Each treatment was replicate thrice. Observations were noted on PDI and number of days taken for stem rot symptoms (latent period). Percent disease incidence (PDI) was calculated by following this equation:\r\n \r\nThe numerical values of percent disease incidence and latent period were used to calculate the virulence index using the following equation (Thakur and Rao 1997).\r\nVirulence index = Percent disease incidence × Latent period-1.\r\n \r\n \r\nRESULTS AND DISCUSSION\r\nA. Survey and symptomatology of Indian bean stem rot caused by S. rolfsii\r\nSurvey of stem rot of Indian bean: The random roving survey was carried out at monthly interval to know the incidence of stem rot in Indian bean during the kharif season 2019-20 in randomly selected villages of different taluka of South Gujarat. The data revealed that the incidence of stem rot disease in Indian bean is endemic in nature as it was observed in more or less severe form in all the selected fields of all the selected villages (Table 1).\r\nThe percent disease incidence occurrence was ranged from 7 to 30 percent in different location (Table 1). Maximum disease incidence (30%) was recorded at NAU, farm, Eru (Jalalpore) while minimum disease incidence (7%) was recorded in Jamanpada (Chikhli). The variation observed in the disease incidence might be due to the prevalence of the strains of S. rolfsii with varied virulence in bean varieries and the environmental factors in the respective areas. \r\nThe present studies are similar to results reported by Amrutha et al. (2019), which carried out random roving survey for studying groundnut stem rot disease incidences in Andhra Pradesh. Daunde et al. (2018) also studied prevalence of collar rot of chilli in Marathwada region of Maharashtra. Rani and Hegde (2017), Sivakumar et al. (2016), Divya rani et al. (2016) and Muthukumar and Venkatesh (2013) also carried out survey for studied prevalence of stem rot disease in different crops at different locations.\r\nSymptomatology of stem rot of Indian bean. First symptoms of stem rot indicated yellowing, browning and discoloration of leaf tissue followed by loss of vigour and premature death or wilting of lateral branches of Indian bean. If the main stem was attacked then the whole plant was affected and caused death of the plants. Moreover to this, there are formations of deep dark brown lesion on the stem region of the plant just near the ground. Advanced symptoms were developed when the lesion was covered by a radiating white mycelium with the rotting underneath it.\r\nIn later stages of infection, mustard seed like dark brown or tan coloured, spherical or round sclerotial bodies were formed, which adhered around the infected stem region and such bodies were produced abundantly on stem. The infected plant showed poor root growth and rotting of the stem region.\r\nThese types of symptoms are occurred at all the places from here those samples are collected; these symptoms are more or less similar.\r\nThe similar symptoms and signs were observed by Sivakumar et al. (2016), they collected the infected groundnut plants showing the typical symptoms of stem rot due to infection with S. rolfsii along with rhizosphere soil. Nagamma and Nagaraja (2015) also observed disease symptoms of S. rolfsii on chickpea plant and notice that the pathogen infected first at collar region.\r\nB. Collection and isolation of diseased samples, identification and pathogenicity of the pathogen\r\nCollection and isolation of diseased samples. The stem rot infected samples of Indian bean were collected from the selected fields of different villages of different talukas from three districts viz., Surat, Navsari and Bharuch (Plate: 1). The collected samples were brought to the laboratory, which were then subjected to microscopic examination followed by standard tissue isolation technique using PDA medium. The pure culture thus obtained was further purified by single hyphal tip isolation technique and maintained on PDA medium.\r\nIdentification of the Pathogen. The isolated pathogen was identified based on cultural and morphological characters as mentioned below.\r\nThe isolated fungus was found to produce white, dense radiating mycelial growth on PDA. The mycelium of the pathogen was septate and hyaline with conspicuous branching at acute angles. The well developed mycelium had cord-like strands. In early stages of growth, the mycelium was silky whitish in colour; it gradually lost its lustre and became dull in appearance and form radial growth colony. The initiation of sclerotial was observed from 6th day onwards.\r\nAt the initial stage, the sclerotial bodies were white in colour which was gradually turned into mustard seed like dark brown colour at maturity stage. Matured sclerotia were spherical to ellipsoidal (Plate: 2 and 3).\r\nThese types of morphological and cultural characteristics were observed in all the isolates of S. rolfsii. They all named as SrKUD (Kudiyana), SrKUV (Kuvad), SrERU (Eru), SrKHR (Kharsad), SrPEL (Peladi bhervi), SrJAM (Jamanpada), SrBHM (Bhimpura) and SrGHM (Ghamnad) with more or less similar cultural and morphological features.\r\nSimilar morphological characteristics of mycelial growth and sclerotial formation were observed by earlier workers, Kushwaha et al. (2019); Ghevariya and Patel (2019); Manu et al. (2018); Wavare et al. (2017); Sekhar et al. (2017).\r\nPathogenicity of S. rolfsii. The pathogenicity test of S. rolfsii was proved by soil inoculation method with giant culture (sorghum grain based medium inoculated with isolate of S. rolfsii). It was carried out under greenhouse conditions as per the procedure described in methodology. \r\nPathogen infect first at collar region. Leaves of such infected plants become yellow. During the advanced stage of infection the white mycelium grew around the collar region and completely covered it. The base of the stem was constricted and turned brown. The plant gradually dried and toppled. The sclerotial bodies were formed on infected parts. Severely infected plants showed death of plant and diseased plant could be easily pulled out from the soil. The fungus was reisolated from infected plant tissue and compared with the original culture, the reisolated culture and original culture showed similar cultural and micro morphological characters and thus identified as same. Hence, the pathogenicity of isolated fungal pathogen was proved as per Koch’s postulates showed in plate 4.\r\nB. Variability among the different isolates of S. rolfsii\r\nMorphological variation in different isolates of S. rolfsii on potato dextrose agar. Morphological characters of each of the isolates of S. rolfsii on potato dextrose agar were studied and observations were recorded. The characters like, colony growth diameter, color of sclerotia, shape of sclerotia, position of sclerotia in culture, numbers of sclerotia formation per plate, diameter of sclerotia and test weight of sclerotia were recorded and are presented in Table 2 and 3.\r\n(A) Growth rate of colony \r\nWide range of variation was noticed among the eight isolates of S. rolfsii with respect to various attributes studied. Here highest colony growth diameter found in SrERU (89.00 mm) isolate. Whereas, isolate SrBHM (87.00 mm) was statistically at par with the SrERU isolate, which followed by SrKUV (86.00 mm), SrKHR (83.00 mm), SrPEL (80.00 mm), SrGHM (79.00 mm), SrKUD (78.00 mm) and SrJAM (74.00 mm) isolates. The growth rate was ranged from 18.50 to 22.25 mm per day.\r\n(B) Time taken for sclerotial initiation\r\nThe isolates varied with respect to time taken for sclerotial formation. Isolates were grouped into three groups. Group I consisted of three isolates (SrERU, SrKHR and SrPEL) which took just four days for sclerotial initiation. Group II consisted of four isolates (SrKUV, SrJAM, SrBHM and SrGHM) in which sclerotial initiation was noticed on 5th day. Group III consisted of one isolate (SrKUD) took maximum number of days (06) for sclerotial initiation. In all isolates sclerotial bodies were initially white, with time turned dark brown.\r\n(C) Colour, shape and position of sclerotia\r\nWith regards to sclerotial colour, 3 types of colour were observed visually among the isolates. Isolates SrKUV, SrJAM and SrBHM had chocolate brown sclerotia, isolates SrKUD and SrGHM showed light brown coloured sclerotia and remaining isolates SrERU, SrKHR and SrPEL had dark brown coloured sclerotia. \r\nIsolates SrKUD, SrERU, SrKHR, SrJAM and SrGHM showed round shape sclerotia whereas, others viz., SrKUV and SrPEL and SrBHM showed oval shape sclerotia.\r\nWith respect to position of sclerotia, maximum isolates (SrKUD, SrERU, SrKHR and SrBHM) of sclerotia were produced irregularly scattered all over the petriplates. SrJAM produced sclerotia at centre in concentrated form. Whereas isolates like (SrKUV, SrPEL and SrGHM) produced sclerotia at the edges of petriplates (Plate: 5). \r\n(D) Number of sclerotia formation in plate \r\nHere the higher numbers of sclerotia recorded per plate in SrERU isolate (300) which followed by SrKUD (283.33), SrKHR (259), SrJAM (227.66), SrPEL (189.33), SrGHM (185.67), SrKUV (176.99) and SrBHM (176.66) isolate.\r\n (E) Size of sclerotia\r\nThe variation in size of sclerotia of isolates under study was found significant. SrJAM isolate produced largest sclerotia with mean diameter of 1.22 mm, whereas SrGHM isolate (1.21 mm) was found statistically at par with SrJAM isolate, which followed by SrBHM isolate (1.12 mm), SrKHR (1.093 mm), SrERU (0.99 mm), SrPEL (0.96 mm), SrKUD (0.91 mm) and SrKUV (0.83 mm) isolates.\r\n(F) Test weight of 100 sclerotia\r\nThe test weight of sclerotia revealed significant variation among all the isolates. Maximum test weight was recorded in SrJAM isolate (301.66 mg) followed by SrGHM (285.60 mg), SrBHM (263 mg), SrERU (226.33 mg), SrKHR (207.33 mg), SrKUD (182 mg), SrPEL (166.66 mg) and SrKUV (165.33 mg).\r\nPandi et al. (2017), Naresh et al. (2017), Mahato and Biswas (2017), Kakade et al. (2017), Ekka et al. (2016), Kuldhar et al. (2014), Rakholiya and Jadeja (2011) and Bagwan (2011) also carried out an experiment to study cultural and morphological variability in different isolates of S. rolfsii causing stem rot disease.\r\nVirulence index. All the eight isolates were inoculated on two different varieties GNIB-21 and GNIB-22 of Indian bean to study the variation in pathogenicity.\r\nObservations on percent disease incidence and number of days taken for stem rot symptoms (latent period) were recorded and presented in the Table 4 and 5.\r\nFor GNIB-21 variety of Indian bean, maximum degree of virulence was recorded in SrERU (10.00) which took less number of days (10) for disease infection to plant followed by SrKUD (7.49), SrKUV (6.23), SrPEL (4.93), SrKHR (4.00), SrBHM (3.41), SrJAM (2.84) and SrGHM (2.18) which required 12, 13, 15, 16, 17, 19 and 22 days for stem rot infection respectively. SrGHM was least virulent with minimum virulence index of 2.18 and required maximum period for completely rotting of plant. Isolates with maximum virulence index required less period of days for causing stem rot of plants presented in Table 4 and plate 6.\r\nFor GNIB-22 variety of Indian bean, maximum degree of virulence was recorded in SrERU (7.58) which took less number of days (12) for disease infection of plant followed by SrKUD (4.87), SrKUV (3.78), SrPEL (3.36), SrKHR (2.66), SrBHM (2.27), SrJAM (2.0) and SrGHM (1.53) required 16, 19, 19, 21, 22, 23 and 26 days for stem rot infection respectively. SrGHM was least virulent with minimum virulence index of 1.53 and required maximum period for completely rotting of plant. Isolates with maximum virulence index required less period of days for causing stem rot of plants presented in Table 5 and plate 7.\r\n\r\n','Ravikumar G. Vaniya, Pushpendra Singh and A.J. Deshmukh (2022). Variability among the different isolates of Sclerotium rolfsii Sacc. Causing Stem Rot of Indian Bean. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 14(2): 757-765.'),(4950,'125','Study of Genetic Association and Path coefficient in Green Gram [Vigna radiata (L.) Wilczek] Genotypes','Prachi Mahla*, Manohar Ram, Dalip, Anju Nehra and Rukoo Chawla','131 Study of Genetic Association and Path coefficient in Green Gram [Vigna radiata _L._ Wilczek] Genotypes Prachi Mahla 2631.pdf','',1,'Green gram is an important pulse crop in India due to its nutritional factors but the production potential of the crop is hindered by various biotic and abiotic factors. Hence to improve the field performance of the crop it is important to understand the genetic makeup of the crop. Correlation and path analysis are useful tools for determining the inter-relationship among various traits in a crop and helps in formulating a breeding programme to boost output. In the present study forty four green gram genotypes were evaluated at Research Farm of Sri Karan Narendra College of Agriculture, Jobner, Jaipur (Rajasthan) to assess association between thirteen yield and yield attributing traits namely days to 50% flowering, days to maturity, plant height (cm), branches per plant, clusters per plant, pods per cluster, pods per plant, pod length (cm), seeds pod, 1000-seed weight (g), protein content (%), chlorophyll content (SPAD meter) and seed yield per plant (g) in Randomized Block Design during kharif 2020. According to association analysis, seed yield per plant had a positive and significant relationship with branches per plant, clusters per plant, pods per plant, plant height and chlorophyll content. Therefore, selection of these traits ultimately increases the seed yield per plant. Path coefficient analysis revealed that pods per plant, branches per plant, protein content, pod length, days to 50% flowering and chlorophyll content exhibited high positive and direct effect with seed yield per plant. Clusters per plant, branches per plant via pods per plant; seeds per pod via clusters per plant; clusters per plant via branches per plant exhibited high indirect positive effect on seed yield per plant. As a result, selecting green gram genotypes based on these characteristics may result in a desirable increase in yield. ','Green gram, correlation, path analysis, association, seed yield','The genotypic correlation coefficient was larger than the phenotypic correlation coefficient in association analysis, showing a significant degree of correlation among characters. Seed yield per plant showed positive and significant correlation with branches per plant, clusters per plant, pods per plant, plant height and chlorophyll content and should be given more importance for improving seed yield. According to path coefficient analysis, seed yield per plant had a positive and direct relationship with pods per plant, branches per plant, protein content, pod length, days to 50% flowering and chlorophyll content. Pods per plant had the greatest direct and positive effect on seed yield per plant of all the variables studied. As a result, when developing a crop improvement programme, the above listed characteristics should be prioritised. ','INTRODUCTION \r\nGreen gram [Vigna radiata (L.) Wilczek] is considered as the most consequential legume crop in India. Green gram is a self-pollinating pulse crop that belongs to the Fabaceae family and has a 2n=22 somatic chromosomal number. Green gram had supposed to be originated from Indian subcontinent. It is a warm season and frost intolerant crop and suitable for cultivation in temperate, tropical and sub-tropical regions. It is widely cultivated in India, Bangladesh, Pakistan, Thailand, Sri Lanka, Malaysia and Indonesia. India is one of the world’s leading grower and user of green gram. Green gram is a popular legume crop because to its short growing season, minimal input requirements and great digestibility due to reduced gas generation (Shil and Bandopadhya 2007). It works well in intense crop rotations since it has a short growing season. In some sections of country, the crop is also farmed for fodder. Green gram is recognized for their magnificent nutritive values. It is a good source of proteins, fats, vitamins and several minerals viz., calcium, magnesium, iron, manganese, phosphorus, potassium and zinc and is great source of antioxidants like flavonoids, phenolic acid, cinnamic acid and caffeic acid. These nutritive properties have great health benefits and reduce risk of chronic diseases such as heart diseases, cancers and diabetes. Green gram also helps in atmospheric nitrogen fixation in soil making it suitable for green manure and cover crop. \r\nDespite of such an important crop the average productivity of green gram is quite low as expected due to several reasons. Narrow genetic base and insufficient knowledge of genetics of crop is a major drawback. Yield is a complicated attribute that is influenced by several attributing characters either directly or indirectly. In developing a breeding program, understanding the genetic relationship of yield and its contributing factors is critical. Correlation analysis helps a breeder to perform both direct and indirect selection of yield attributing traits. Path coefficient analysis provides the information whether the relationship of yield attributing traits with yield is due to direct effect on yield or due to their indirect effect via some other component traits. The present investigation was carried out to evaluate the relationship between seed yield and its contributing traits in 44 genotypes of green gram. \r\nMATERIALS AND METHODS\r\nThe present study was carried out during kharif 2020, at Research Farm of Sri Karan Narendra College of Agriculture, Jobner, Jaipur (Rajasthan). Forty four green gram genotypes were evaluated in Randomized Block Design (RBD) with three replications (Table 1). Each genotype was sown in two rows in a plot of 2.50 m length, with a row to row and plant to plant distance of 30 and 10 cm, respectively, in each replication. The experimental material was assembled from All India Coordinated Research Project on MULLaRP, Rajasthan Agriculture Research Institute, Durgapura, Jaipur (Rajasthan). The observations for thirteen quantitative traits were observed on ten arbitrarily picked plants from each genotype in each replication for all the following characters namely, plant height (cm), branches per plant, clusters per plant, pods per cluster, pods per plant, pod length (cm), seeds per pod, seed yield per plant (g), protein content (%) and chlorophyll content (SPAD meter reading) with the exception of days to 50% flowering, days to maturity and 1000-seed weight (g) which were reported on plot basis. The genotypic and phenotypic correlation coefficients were determined using the formulas provided Johnson et al., (1955); Singh and Choudhary (1985). Path coefficient analysis was used to assess the direct and indirect effects of various factors on seed yield, as stated by Wright (1921); Dewey and Lu (1959).\r\nRESULT AND DISCUSSION\r\nCorrelation analysis. Knowing the interrelationships between different traits and seed yield is critical for formulating a rewarding breeding program. To determine the magnitude of both environmental and genetic impacts, the correlation coefficients must be evaluated at both phenotypic and genotypic levels. Genotypic coefficient of correlation is considered as the true estimate of correlation as it eliminates the environmental factor. The genotypic coefficient of correlation was greater than the phenotypic coefficient of correlation in the current study, suggested that there was a significant degree of correlation between traits at the genotypic level and its phenotypic expression was depleted by the environmental factors. The traits showing high genotypic correlation with each other and with seed yield are regarded crucial for applying selection pressure to improve seed yield genetically. The genotypic correlation coefficient between 13 traits in 44 genotypes of green gram are shown in Table 2. \r\nDays to 50% flowering exhibited positive and significant correlation with days to maturity (0.684) and plant height (0.475), whereas a negative significant correlation with protein content (-0.388). Similar findings were observed by Varma et al., (2018) for days to maturity and plant height. Days to maturity revealed positive significant correlation with plant height (0.272), clusters per plant (0.183), seeds per pod (0.204) and chlorophyll content (0.193). Plant height showed positive and significant correlation with branches per plant (0.560), clusters per plant (0.364), pods per clusters (0.225), pods per plant (0.406) and seed yield per plant (0.221), on the contrary it showed negative significant correlation with pod length (-0.180). Ramakrishnan et al. (2018) also got related results. \r\nBranches per plant showed positive and significant correlation with clusters per plant (0.804), pods per plant (0.550), chlorophyll content (0.253) and seed yield per plant (0.592) whereas a negative significant correlation was found with pods per cluster (-0.547), pod length (-0.234), seeds per pod (-0.830), 1000-seed weight (-0.230) and protein content (-0.207). Clusters per plant showed positive and significant correlation with pods per plant (0.847), chlorophyll content (0.336) and seed yield per plant (0.758) while negative significant correlation with pods per cluster (-0.338), pod length (-0.520), seeds per pod (-0.903) and 1000-seed weight (-0.281). Pods per cluster exhibited positive and significant correlation with pods per plant (0.292) and seeds per pod (0.325) while it showed negative and significant correlation with pod length (-0.269). Pods per plant showed positive and significant correlation with chlorophyll content (0.315) and seed yield per plant (0.708) while negative significant correlation with pod length (-0.687), seeds per pod (-0.842) and 1000-seed weight (-0.284). These results were in accordance with findings of Makeen et al., (2007); Narasimhulu et al., (2013) and Ramakrishnan et al., (2018). \r\nPod length revealed positive and significant correlation with seeds per pod (1.428) and 1000-seed weight (0.363) while negative and significant correlation with chlorophyll content (-0.278) and seed yield per plant (-0.234). These findings were in correspondence with investigations of Varma et al. (2018). Seeds per pod exhibited positive and significant correlation with 1000-seed weight (0.341) and protein content (0.568) while negative significant correlation with chlorophyll content (-0.244) and seed yield per plant (-0.289). 1000-seed weight showed positive and significant correlation with protein content (0.179). Protein content exhibited negative and significant correlation with chlorophyll content (-0.322). Chlorophyll content exhibited positive and significant correlation with seed yield per plant (0.233). The highest positive and significant correlation with seed yield per plant was exhibited by the branches per plant, clusters per plant and pods per plant. Such associations were also reported by Biradar et al. (2007); Tabasum et al., (2010); Narasimhulu et al. (2013); Garje et al., (2014); Anand et al. (2016); Bhutia et al. (2016); Sandhiya and Saravanan (2018). This implies that selecting these traits will eventually boost the seed yield per plant. Patel et al., (2014) reported positive and significant association for plant height, 1000-seed weight and protein content and Kate et al. (2017) for days to maturity.\r\nPath analysis. Correlation analysis merely reveals the nature and degree of association between two characters, whereas, path analysis helps in understanding the direct and indirect association of characters as well as the relative contribution of different traits with respect to seed yield. As a result, the correlation coefficients were subdivided into direct and indirect effects at both genotypic and phenotypic levels. The seed yield per plant was used as the dependent character and others were considered independent in the present path analysis. Path coefficient values among 13 traits in 44 green gram genotypes are presented in Table 3. Path diagram as shown in Fig. 1 in which seed yield is considered as dependent trait and other traits as independent traits.\r\nDirect effect. Pods per plant (1.954) revealed highest direct and positive effect on seed yield per plant followed by branches per plant (1.526), protein content (0.767), pod length (0.427), days to 50% flowering (0.348) and chlorophyll content (0.293). These findings were agreed with those of Haritha et al. (2002); Makeen et al. (2007); Biradar et al., (2007); Thippani et al., (2013); Eswaran and Senthilkumar (2015); Jyothsna et al. (2016); Varma et al. (2018); Mohammed et al. (2020). These results indicate that for yield improvement direct selection for these traits would be rewarding. Whereas clusters per plant (-1.906), plant height (-0.949), pods per cluster (-0.213), seeds per pod (-0.106), 1000-seed weight (-0.047) and days to maturity (-0.032) exhibited negative and direct effect on seed yield per plant. \r\nIndirect effect. Seeds per pod (1.721), pods per cluster (0.644) via clusters per plant; clusters per plant (1.654), branches per plant (1.075), plant height (0.793) via pods per plant; clusters per plant (1.227), plant height (0.854), pods per plant (0.839) via branches per plant; seeds per pod (0.61) via pod length had high indirect and positive effect on seed yield per plant. However, seeds per pod (-1.266), pods per cluster (-0.834) via branches per plant; pods per plant (-1.614), branches per plant (-1.533), plant height (-0.694) via clusters per plant; seeds per pod (-1.645), pod length (-1.342) via pods per plant; branches per plant (-0.531) via plant height had high negative indirect effect on seed yield per plant.\r\n','Prachi Mahla, Manohar Ram, Dalip, Anju Nehra and Rukoo Chawla (2022). Study of Genetic Association and Path coefficient in Green Gram [Vigna radiata (L.) Wilczek] Genotypes. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 14(2): 766-770.'),(4951,'125','Inherent Variability, Correlation and Path Analysis in Lowland Rice (Oryza sativa L.)','Manivelan K., Juliet Hepziba S.*, Suresh R., Theradimani M., Renuka R. and Gnanamalar R.P.','132 Inherent Variability, Correlation and Path Analysis in Lowland Rice Oryza sativa L. MANIVELAN K.pdf','',1,'Selection of parents based on agronomic traits and grain quality requirements of consumers is the key for realizing genetic gain in any rice improvement programme. Yield attributing traits are the major target for the plant breeders along with the trait of interest. Correlation and path analysis would be the reliable tools for identifying the associations between the yield and component traits. Hence the present study aimed to assess the relationship and effects between yield and its components traits involving 12 F1s developed through Line x Tester mating design involving four lines and three testers along with the seven parents. The trial was conducted in RBD replicated thrice. Biometrical observations were recorded on eighteen characters viz., days to 50% flowering, plant height, number of tillers, number of productive tillers, panicle length, hundred grain weight, single plant yield, hulling percentage, milling percentage, head rice recovery, alkali spreading value, amylose content, gel consistency, kernel length, kernel breadth, kernel length breath ratio, kernel length after cooking and kernel breadth after cooking. Correlation and path analysis were carried out as suggested by Falconer (1964) and Dewey and Lu (1959). Much difference was not observed between PCV and the corresponding GCV for most of the traits indicating less influence of the environment on these characters. The characters viz., number of productive tillers per plant, hundred seed weight, head rice recovery, amylose content, gel consistency, kernel breadth, kernel length after cooking and kernel breadth after cooking had high heritability and high genetic advance and by choosing of these characters, the selection may be effective. The genotypic correlation for single plant yield was found to be significant and positive with number of tillers, number of productive tillers, hundred seed weight and kernel length breadth ratio. In both genotypic and phenotypic correlation, number of tillers, number of productive tillers, hundred seed weight and kernel length breadth ratio with single plant yield was observed positive and significant association. Positive significant associations with high magnitude of positive direct effect were identified for hundred seed weight followed by kernel length on single plant yield. This indicated that direct selection for these traits would be rewarding for yield improvement. ','Variability, association, grain yield, head rice recovery, path effects','In the present investigation wide range of variation was observed among the traits. High heritability combined with high genetic advance was exhibited by number of productive tillers per plant, hundred seed weight, head rice recovery, amylose content, gel consistency, kernel breadth, kernel length after cooking and kernel breadth after cooking. The association between number of tillers, number of productive tillers, hundred seed weight and kernel length breadth ratio with single plant yield were positive and significant both at phenotypic and genotypic levels. Path analysis revealed that number of tillers, number of productive tillers, hundred seed weight, and kernel length breadth ratio exhibited a positive direct effect on single plant yield. Thus selection for these characters with high heritability, high genetic advance as per cent of mean and positive direct effects help in selection of superior genotypes for further breeding programmes. ','INTRODUCTION\r\nRice (Oryza sativa L.) is the staple diet for around 2.5 billion people worldwide, which is expected to increase to 4.6 billion by 2050. It is one of the most important cereal crop, providing nourishment to half of the world\'s population (Lopez, 2008). It is a critical nutritional and food security source for many Asian nations, as well as the only cereal crop cooked and consumed mostly as whole grains, therefore quality is much essential (Hossain et al., 2009 and Wu et al., 2013). Although existence of considerable genetic variability for yield and quality attributes was already recorded in the past, there are still much genetic diversity present in the germplasm, which needs to be exploited for identifying suitable parents and producing superior recombinants with regard to yield and quality components. Polygenes, which govern majority of genetic characteristics are strongly influenced by the environment. Furthermore, heritability is vital for selection-based development as it reveals the magnitude to which a character may be passed on across generations (Sabesan et al., 2009). High genetic advance associated with increased heritability provide a better circumstances for character selection. The availability on magnitude and direction of genetic correlation of characters in the base population and the use of appropriate selection techniques are the basis for any crop improvement programme (Rani et al., 2016; Adhikari et al., 2018).\r\nTo carry out any breeding programme, it is necessary to understand the genetic variability of yield contributing characters, along with their interaction with yield. The correlation coefficient may be useful in identifying traits with little or no significance in the selection programme (Singh et al., 2014). The genotypic correlation coefficient indicates the genetic proportion of a character that is heritable in nature and used to assist breeding programmes. The existence of the association may be attributed to linkage, pleiotropic effects of genes, physiological and developmental relationships and environmental impacts (Oad et al., 2002). Path analysis along with correlation provide a better understanding of the cause and effect link between various pairs of characters (Jayasudha and Sharma, 2010). The association between predictor factors and responder variables has been established using path analysis (Meena et al., 2020). Path coefficient analysis imparts profound knowledge to plant breeders in increasing yield via direct and indirect effects (Hasan et al., 2013; Moosavi et al., 2015). The present investigation was undertaken to estimate genetic variability, heritability, genetic advance as per cent of mean, correlation coefficients, direct and indirect effects of different yield components and quality traits among a set of seven parents and 12 hybrids.\r\nMATERIALS AND METHODS \r\nThe experiment was conducted during kharif 2020 at Agricultural College and Research Institute, Madurai. The experimental material was generated by involving four lines (TKM 13, ADT 49, CO 52 and ADT 52) and three testers possessing Bacterial Leaf Blight resistant genes (IRBB 21, Improved Samba Mashuri and IRBB 60) through line x tester mating design by Kempthorne (1957). The seven parents and twelve hybrids were raised in a randomized block design (RBD) with three replications. Thirty days old seedlings were transplanted in 3m row following spacing of 20cm between rows and 15cm between plants at the rate of 15 plants per row. At maturity, five plants from each genotype were selected from each replications randomly for recording the biometrical observations viz., days to 50 per cent flowering, plant height, number of tillers per plant, number of productive tillers per plant, panicle length, hundred grain weight, single plant yield, hulling percentage (%), milling percentage (%), head rice recovery (%), alkali spreading value, amylose content, gel consistency, kernel length (mm), kernel breadth (mm), kernel length breadth ratio, kernel length after cooking and kernel breadth after cooking. \r\nKernel length and kernel breadth of 10 whole milled rice were measured by means of dial caliper and kernel length breadth ratio was computed (Murthy and Swamy, 1967). Kernel elongation was determined by soaking 5 g of whole milled rice in 12 ml distilled water for 10 minutes and later cooked for 15 minutes in water bath. Observations on length and breadth of cooked kernels and elongation ratio were recorded with the help of graph sheet. \r\nTo estimate the Milling quality trait, the rough rice (paddy) was cleaned, dehulled by using Zaccaria’s Rice Miller (Mod. PAZ-1/DTA). After cleaning and weighing the dehusked kernel (brown rice) hulling percentage was calculated. Dehusked kernels were polished to remove bran and milling percentage was calculated. From the milled paddy, percentage of head rice was measured. It is the estimate of head rice with more than 2/3 rd size and expressed as percentage.\r\nR statistical analysis software was used for association analysis to assess their correlation and path effects. The package “Variability” was used to estimate the variability parameters and the package “Agricolae”, “Metan” and “Lavaan” were used for correlation and path effects analysis.\r\nAccording to Robinson et al. (1949), the estimates of heritability were categorized as high (> 60%), moderate (30-60%) and low (0-30%). Genetic advance as per cent of mean was calculated and classified as high (> 20%), moderate (10-20%) and low (< 10%) as given by Johnson et al. (1955). Correlation was worked out using the formulae suggested by Falconer (1964). Partitioning of the correlation coefficient into direct and indirect effects was carried out using the procedure suggested by Wright (1921) and elaborated by Dewey and Lu (1959). Characterization of path coefficients was carried out as suggested by Lenka and Mishra (1973). \r\nRESULT AND DISCUSSION\r\nAnalysis of variance. The results of the analysis of variance (ANOVA) for grain yield and yield component characteristics (Table 1) indicated highly significant mean squares for genotypes for all the traits examined, showing that there is enough variation among the genotypes, thus permitting effective selection as reported by Mazal et al. (2021).\r\nEstimation of genetic variability. The mean, range, genotypic co-efficient of variation (GCV), phenotypic co-efficient of variation (PCV), heritability and genetic advance as per cent of mean, (GA %) for all the traits are presented in Table 2. For most of the characters, there was little difference between PCV and the corresponding GCV, indicating that environmental influences are minimal and that these traits have high genetic variability. Bhargava et al. (2021); Tiwari et al. (2019); Sudeepthi et al. (2020) previously reported similar findings in rice. High PCV and GCV were observed for head rice recovery, while moderate PCV and GCV values were noticed for number of tillers per plant, number of productive tillers per plant, hundred seed weight, amylose content, gel consistency, kernel breadth, kernel length after cooking and kernel breadth after cooking. \r\nCharacters with moderate PCV and GCV values are likely to provide a decent scope of improvement through selection in their particular environment due to their moderate genetic variability (Garg et al., 2011; Paswan et al., 2014). Low estimates of these two parameters were observed for the characters days to 50 per cent flowering, plant height, panicle length, single plant yield, hulling percentage, milling percentage, alkali spreading value, kernel length and kernel length breadth ratio indicating little scope of improvement in these traits due to lack of requisite variability. The characters viz., number of productive tillers per plant, hundred seed weight, head rice recovery, amylose content, gel consistency, kernel breadth, kernel length after cooking and kernel breadth after cooking had high heritability and high genetic advance and selection may be rewarding for these characters. Similar findings were reported by Lakshmi et al., 2021; Yadav et al., 2021 in rice. Days to 50 per cent flowering, number of tillers per plant, panicle length and kernel length, and kernel length breadth ratio all showed high heritability along with moderate genetic progress as obtained in rice by Singh et al. (2021). Plant height and alkali spreading value had high heritability, but low genetic advance as per cent of mean. Either high heritability coupled with high genetic advance or moderate heritability accompanied with high genetic advance indicated the presence of additive gene effect and selection may be effective in such cases. Low heritability combined with low genetic progress showed the presence of non-additive gene action, and selection for such characteristics may be ineffective. (Nadarajan et al., 2018).\r\nPhenotypic correlation. Phenotypic correlation between yield and yield attributing characters are presented in Table 3 and Fig. 1. Highly positive and significant phenotypic association was observed between yield with number of tillers (0.568**), number of productive tillers (0.644**), hundred seed weight (0.475**), kernel length (0.391**) and kernel length breadth ratio (0.434**), whereas positive non significant association with days to 50% flowering (0.203), plant height(0.063), panicle length(0.184), hulling percentage(0.115), milling percentage(0.260), gel consistency(0.015), kernel length after cooking (0.235) and kernel breadth after cooking(0.258). This significant relationship between single plant yield and yield attributing features indicated that increasing the dimension of these qualities lead to an increase in grain production.\r\nDays to fifty per cent flowering possessed positive significant association with plant height (0.523**), number of tillers (0.318*), number of productive tillers (0.283*), panicle length (0.466**), gel consistency (0.558**) and kernel breadth after cooking (0.275*). Similar findings were obtained by Hema et al. (2019) in rice. Number of tillers per plant and productive tillers per plant were found to be positive and significant among themselves along with hundred seed weight, gel consistency, kernel length, kernel length breadth ratio and single plant yield. Apart from this number of tillers per plant also exhibited positive and significant association with panicle length and kernel breadth after cooking. It was revealed that number of total tillers per plant and productive tillers per plant were important factors in enhancing rice production potential. The plant height unveiled negative association with hundred seed weight (-0.352**), alkali spreading value (-0.304*), kernel length (-0.404**) and length breadth ratio (-0.262*). Positive and significant correlation was found among panicle length with gel consistency (0.37**), kernel length (0.274*) and kernel length after cooking (0.323*). The alkali spreading value, kernel length and kernel length breadth ratio all had a positive relationship with hundred seed weight, however the head rice recovery (-0.278*) had a negative relationship. As a result, careful selection is required when seeking to increase these quality features without reduction in yield.\r\nHulling and milling percentages were shown to have a positive and significant relationship with one another as well as with head rice recovery, while head rice recovery had a significant negative relationship with amylose content (-0.269*). Kernel breadth and kernel breadth after cooking exhibited positively significant association with kernel length and gel consistency. Kernel length and kernel length breadth ratio were shown to have a positive relationship with kernel length after cooking. These findings showed that through careful selection, these quality characteristics might be improved simultaneously with yield.\r\nGenotypic correlation: The genotypic correlation for single plant yield was found to be significant and positive with number of tillers (0.645**), number of productive tillers (0.709**), hundred seed weight (0.506**) and kernel length breadth ratio (0.478). Similar results were obtained for tiller number per plant by Saha et al., (2019); Singh et al. (2020). Kernel length (0.405), milling percentage (0.389), kernel breadth after cooking (0.278), and kernel length after cooking (0.405) all had non-significant positive association (0.236) with yield per plant (Table 4).\r\nDays to fifty per cent flowering had a positive significant association with the traits such as plant height (0.594**), panicle length (0.538**) and gel consistency (0.602**), whereas the traits, number of productive tillers (0.727**), kernel length (0.562*) and kernel breadth after cooking (0.526*) exhibited significantly positive association with number of tillers per plant. Association of kernel length with kernel breadth (0.558*), kernel length breadth ratio (0.725**), kernel length after cooking (0.467*) and kernel breadth after cooking (0.471*) were positive and significant. Further, kernel breadth had highly significant and positive association with kernel breadth after cooking (0.674**). The relationship between kernel length and kernel length breadth ratio was positive and significant comparable to that of Archana et al. (2018); Singh et al. (2020) in rice. Kernel length breadth ratio was significantly associated with kernel length after cooking (0.560*). Hulling and milling percentage had highly positive and significant correlation with each other along with head rice recovery as reported by Srinivas et al. (2021). \r\n \r\n\r\nGenotypic correlation coefficient for the traits viz., number of tillers and number of productive tillers, hundred seed weight and kernel length breadth ratio with single plant yield were found to be higher than the phenotypic correlation coefficient, indicating that there is a strong genetic correlation than environmental association between these traits and single plant yield. Similar results were obtained by Devi et al. (2022).\r\nPath analysis. Selections based on the results of correlation coefficient analysis may not produce the expected outcome, it is necessary to include path coefficient analysis for estimation of degree of association (Prasanna Kumari et al., 2020). Path analysis was undertaken to study the direct and indirect effects of the different traits on yield, the dependent variable. The results of response variable, single plant yield and other polygenic and qualitative traits results are presented in Table 5. Majority of the values were less than unity in path analysis revealing that inflation due to multi-collinearity is less (Gravois and Helms, 1992). Hundred seed weight had high magnitude of positive direct effect on single plant yield (0.507) followed by days to fifty per cent flowering (0.357) and kernel length (0.347), whereas number of productive tillers (0.250), head rice recovery (0.236) and kernel breadth after cooking (0.276) recorded moderate direct effect on single plant yield. Singh et al., 2020 found that the number of productive tillers and hundred seed weight had a highly positive direct influence on single plant yield. These variables with high and moderate direct effects are considered to be crucial aspects of single plant yield and direct selection of these traits might significantly increase single plant yield.\r\nKernel breadth (-0.316) exhibited high and negative direct effect on single plant yield whereas, gel consistency (-0.273), alkali spreading value (-0.250) and amylose content (-0.214) were found to have moderate and negative direct effect on single plant yield. The negative direct effects showed that selection through these traits would be ineffective for enhancing rice productivity. In the present study, the residual effect was 0.185 which revealed that the characters chosen in this study contributed 81.5 per cent to the yield.\r\nAlkali spreading value (0.289) exhibited the highest positive indirect effect followed by number of productive tillers (0.223) on grain yield through hundred seed weight. Kernel length breadth ratio (0.229) exhibited positive and moderate indirect effect on single plant yield via kernel length. As a result, indirect selection based on these traits should be examined simultaneously for yield enhancement.\r\nThe association between number of tillers, number of productive tillers, hundred seed weight, and kernel length breadth ratio with single plant yield were positive and significant at both genotypic and phenotypic levels. Positive and significant correlation with high positive direct effects were found on single plant yield by hundred seed weight followed by kernel length. This suggested that direct selection for these attributes might be advantageous for yield enhancement.\r\n','Manivelan K., Juliet Hepziba S., Suresh R., Theradimani M., Renuka R. and Gnanamalar R.P. (2022). Inherent Variability, Correlation and Path Analysis in Lowland Rice (Oryza sativa L.). Biological Forum – An International Journal, 14(2): 771-778.'),(4952,'125','Awareness of Farm Television among the Rural Farmers','Radhika Tanwar*, Nitesh Kumar Tanwar,Annu Devi Gora and N.K. Sharma','133 Awareness of Farm Television among the Rural Farmers Vinay Kardam.pdf','',1,'Communication for farm information is playing important role in rural development. Farmers lives in less accessible and in scattered villages in India where the communication becomes almost difficult. In this condition television is the second most source for farm families to get farm related information. We need to adopt technologies that will enhance our delivery system and awareness about farm television. A study was conducted in Dudu and Jhotwara panchayats with randomly selected 120 televiewers of Jaipur district. Investigator collected the responses through structured schedule by personal interview method. The collected responses were classified and analyzed by using simple statistics. Majority of the farmers were having awareness about farm TV and half of them were always viewing farm telecast. Majority were aware by name, time and day of broadcast about ‘Krishi Darshan’ and ‘Kisan Prashan Manch’ programmes broadcast by Doordarshan Kendra, Jaipur. However, they suggested that present telecast timings, duration, language and contents of farm TV programmes should be changed.','Awareness, broadcast, communication, Farm Television','Based on the findings, it could be inferred that the farmers have moderate level of awareness, about 50.00 per cent farmers were always viewing farm telecast, aware about the name and broadcast timing of ‘Krishi Darshan’ programme, most of the farmers aware about the day of broadcast of ‘Kisan Prashan Manch’ programme broadcasted by Doordarshan Kendra, Jaipur. Some farmers wanted to change in the present telecast timings, about 50.00 per cent of the farmers wanted to change in the duration, some desired change in present language and many farmers wanted change in contents of farm T.V. programmes.','INTRODUCTION\r\nThe present age has been rightly termed as an ‘informational age’. As information plays a pivotal role in our society and its large scale dissemination through highly preferred and communication media considered one of the most striking developments of our times. Now a days people want adequate and authentic information as early as possible because information become an integral part of everyone’s life. Mass media like newspaper, radio and television become important need of people who craving for information. For prompt and overall growth of a country it is must that the people of the country are well knowledgeable with the happenings around them.\r\nOnly 4 and 14 per cent of the farmers were regularly and occasionally viewing farm related programmes (Sharvan et al. 2009). Aboh (2008) opined that ICT tools that have great potential for use in agricultural extension include television. T.V. is a very popular medium for the dissemination of the information among the rural people. The boom in television industries has not only affected urban masses but rural people are also fascinated with this medium. In India the communication is difficult and challenging where the rural masses are isolated in villages. Now Television has become one of the most important media for communication at mass level for all. It has playing a foremost role in transferring latest technologies to the rural people. Television is become important sources for mass communication to reach large number of people in no time. Television is used as an important tool for Transfer of Technology (Marcelle, 2000).\r\nInformation transfer in the industrial sector is fast and advanced. However, the transfer takes place through informal channels and thus transformation into knowledge is much slower in agriculture. While farmers are being provided with increasing sophistication in transfer of information, it will require effective interpretation if it is to be of benefit.\r\nWe need to adopt technologies that will enhance our delivery system, at a minimum we need administrators who will foster on institutional culture with a strong commitment to advanced communications technology (Astroth, 1990). The major problem is time lag and information gap between technology generation and its use by potential users. ICT seems to be the answer of the problem.\r\nMETERIALS AND METHODS\r\nA. Study Area\r\nThe study was conducted at Jaipur District of Rajasthan, which had Doordarshan Kendra, Jaipur. From selected district, two panchayat samities i. e. Dudu and Jhotwara and from the selected panchayat samities 6 villages from each panchayat samiti were selected randomly by using simple random sampling. Thus the total villages were 12 for the study purpose.\r\nB. Sampling procedure and Sample size\r\nFrom each village 10 respondent, who were watching Television to gather farm related information selected. Thus, 120 respondents from 12 villages were selected by proportionate random sampling technique.\r\nC. Data Collection\r\nThe investigator collected data by using questionnaire. The collected data were analyzed by using three categories Lower, Moderate and Higher awareness level of the farm television on the basis of mean and standard deviation. Mean is obtained by total score of each statement divided by total number of farmers who are utilizing T. V. The standard deviation measures the absolute dispersion of variability of distribution.\r\nRESULT AND DISCUSSION\r\nAwareness is the state or ability to perceive, to feel, or to be conscious of events, objects or sensory patterns. It is one of the important components that plays an important role in utilization of any innovation. In this study innovation is Farm Television. On this ground, it was realized to examine the existing level of awareness of farm T. V. among the rural farmers. The results presented in following tables. \r\nA. Distribution of farmers according to their awareness of Farm T.V.\r\nTo get an overview of the awareness level, the respondents were categorized in to lower, moderate and higher level of awareness group on the basis of calculated mean score of the awareness score obtained by the respondents.\r\n \r\n\r\nTable 1 reveals that out of 120 respondents, majority of respondents (69.17%) fell in moderate level of awareness group whereas, 15.83% farmers having higher level of awareness and remaining 15.00%of the farmers possessed lower level of awareness about farm T.V. \r\nFurther Table 1 reveals that 21.67 and 8.33% respondents were observed in lower level of awareness \r\ngroup in Dudu and Jhotwara panchayat samities, respectively. While 65.00% and 73.30% respondents were observed in moderate level of awareness group in Dudu and Jhotwara panchayat samities, respectively. While 13.33 and 18.33% respondents were observed in higher level of awareness group in Dudu and Jhotwara panchayat samities, respectively. \r\nThe data presented in table 2 shows that nearly half(55.83%)of the farmers were ‘Always’ view the farm programmes on television, whereas 44.17% farmers were viewing them ‘Rarely’.\r\nThe percentage (58.33%) of farmers who view the farm programmes ‘Always’ on television was more in Dudu panchayat samiti as compared to Jhotwara panchayat samiti (53.33%), whereas the percentage of farmers who view ‘Rarely’ was more (46.67%) in Jhotwara panchayat samiti as against that in Dudu panchayat samiti (41.67%). This might be due to some extent lack of awareness about the content of agricultural programmes and lack of time, but those who viewed these programmes watched them completely and understood. The present findings are in accordance with \r\nthe findings of Chhachher et al. (2012), who stated that only (18%) of respondents preferred to watch agriculture related programmes on television.\r\nB. Awareness about name, time of telecast and duration of farm television programmes\r\nAfter assessing viewing habits it was necessary to determine the level of awareness about name, time, duration and day of different farm T.V. programmes telecasted from Doordarshan Kendra, Jaipur with the motive to know the popularity of these programmes among the farmers.\r\nAwareness about name of the television programmes. The data presented in Table 3 revealed that majority of the farmers (83.33%) were aware about the name of ‘Krishi Darshan’ followed by Choupal (80.83%), ‘Kisan Prashan Manch’ (77.50%), ‘Mandi.com’ (76.67%), ‘Jhanki Gaun Gaun Ki’ (73.3%), ‘Chhat par Baghwani’ and Vichaar Vimarsh (72.50%) and it was also found that more than 30% farmers were aware about the name of ‘Baat Rajyo Ki’ (66.67%), ‘Hello Kisan’ (60.83%), ‘Kisan Samachar’ (59.14%), ‘Waah Kisan (57.50%), ‘Kisano Ke Mahanayak’ (56.67%), ‘Ghumte Phirte’ (41.67%), ‘Khet Khalihaan’ (29.17%) programmes telecasted from Doordarshan Kendra, Jaipur, respectively and only 25.00% farmers were aware about the name of ‘Choupal Charcha’ programme. Farmers prefer to watch ‘Krishi Darshan’ programme may be due to that farmers got more important information about agriculture from this programme. These findings indicate that a good number of farmers were aware about the evening and noon chunk of the programmes, the durations of these noon chunk are more than the morning telecast. The present findings are in accordance with the findings of Jhajharia et al. (2012) who found that cent per cent of the respondents were aware about the name of ‘Rajasthani News’ and only 72.85% respondents were aware about the name of ‘Srijjan’ programme.\r\nAwareness about time of telecast of the television programme. Table 3 indicate that 75.00 per cent of the farmers were aware about the time of telecast of ‘Krishi Darshan’ and ‘Kisan Prashan Manch’ programmes followed by more than 50% who were aware about the time of telecast of ‘Mandi.com’ (68.33%), ‘Jhanki Gaun-Gaun ki’ (66.67%), ‘Choupal’ (65.00%), ‘Jhanki Gaun-Gaun ki’ (63.33%), ‘Hello kisan’ (62.50%), ‘Baat Rajyo Ki’ (58.33%), ‘Vichar-Vimarsh’ (53.33%) and followed by more than 30% farmers who were aware about the name of ‘Kisan Samachar’ (49.17%), ‘Waah Kisan’ (47.50%), ‘Kisano Ke Mahanayak’ (43.33%), ‘Ghumte –Phirte’ (33.33%) programmes delivered from Doordarshan Kendra, Jaipur, respectively. And only 25.00 and 20.00% farmers were aware about the time of telecast of ‘Khet Khalihaan’ and Choupal Charcha’ programmes of Doordarshan Kendra, Jaipur respectively. The present findings are in accordance with the findings of Jhajharia et al. (2012) who found that all the respondents were aware about the time of ‘Rangoli, film and entertainment programmes’ and 60.26% respondents were aware about the time of ‘Srijjan’ programme.\r\nAwareness about the Day of telecast of television programme. Further, Table 3 indicate that the 75.00% farmers were aware about the day of telecast of ‘Kisan Prashan Manch’ followed by ‘Krishi Darshan’ (65.00%), ‘Choupal’ (60.00%), ‘Jhanki Gaun-Gaun ki’ (60.00%), ‘Mandi.com’ (55.83%), ‘Chhat par Baghwani (50.00%), ‘Hello kisan’ (48.33%), ‘Kisan Samachar’ (49.17%), ‘Vichar-Vimarsh’ (45.00%) ‘Baat Rajyo Ki’ (41.67%), ‘Kisano Ke Mahanayak’ (40.00%), ‘Ghumte –Phirte’ (31.67%), ‘Waah Kisan’ (30.83%), programmes delivered from Doordarshan Kendra, Jaipur, respectively and only 23.33 and 20.83% farmers were aware about the day of telecast of ‘Khet Khalihaan’ and ‘Choupal Charcha’ programmes telecasted from Doordarshan Kendra, Jaipur. Jhajharia et al. (2012) have also reported the similar findings.\r\nThe data presented in Table 4, revealed that most (64.17%) of the farmers were satisfied with the present timing, whereas, only 35.83% farmers wanted to change in the timing of the farm related T.V. programmes, which means that the most of them did not like change in timing.\r\nFrom among the farmers who wanted the change in timings of telecast, nearly half (53.49%) from Dudu panchayat samiti who wanted to change in time of farm telecast in winter whereas, more than fifty per (55.81%) of farmers in Jhotwara panchayat samiti wanted to change in time of farm telecast in summer. \r\nTiming of telecast affected the viewing of farm T.V. programmes. The majority of the farmers were satisfied with the farm T.V. programmes. The farmers, who were not satisfied, suggested that the farm T.V. programmes should be started at 8.00 P.M. in summer and at 7.00 P.M. in winter because at this time they might have come from their fields.\r\nThis could be due to the fact that farmers might be at their farms or they might feel tired just after coming from the farm. This findings are in accordance with the findings of Lal, (2002) who revealed that 41.67% respondents were in favour of the present timing and 58.33% respondents wanted to change in the present timing of the T.V. programmes.\r\nTable 5 revealed that out of 120 farmers 51.67% did not want any changes in the present duration, while remaining 48.33% farmers wanted change in the duration of farm T.V. programmes. Out of 58 farmers 31.03%,who wanted to change in timing expressed that the duration should be increased by 10 minutes and 68.97% farmers said that the duration should be increased by 15 minutes. Out of 58 farmers who wanted change 58.62% expressed from Dudu pamchayat samiti that the duration should be increased by 10 to 15 minutes daily.\r\nThis could be due to the fact that present duration of farm T.V. programmes was insufficient for them. Farmers wanted to extend the duration of the farm related programmes, it may be due to the reason that if duration is increased then they can get more and clear knowledge about the information that is telecast on farm T.V. The present findings are in accordance with the findings of Lal (2002) who found that half of the respondents (50.00%) did not want any changes in the present duration of T.V. programmes and remaining 50.00% respondents wanted change in the duration of T.V. programmes.\r\nFrom the Table 6, it appears that out of 120 farmers 55.00 per cent farmers opined that the language of farm T.V. programmes was suitable to them, whereas the remaining 45.00 per cent farmers expressed that the language did not suite them. Out of 54 farmers, whom the language did not suit 62.67% farmers wanted that the programmes should be telecast in Dhundhari language that is local in Jaipur district and the remaining 37.03% farmers wanted that the Hindi language should be used in farm T.V. programmes. No one wanted the Mewari. This shows that only the minority of the farmers were not satisfied with the \r\nlanguage i.e. Hindi mixed with somewhat English, used in farm telecast. Out of 54 farmers, whom the language did not suit 66.67% farmers wanted that the programmes should be telecast in Dhundhari and Hindi language in Dudu panchayat samiti. This might be due to the fact that the language used in the telecast was not compatible for some farmers. The present findings are in accordance with the findings of Lal (2002) who found that 79.17% of respondents opined that the farm T.V. programmes language was suitable for them and remaining 20.83% respondents expressed that the language did not suit them.\r\nTable 7, shown that out of 120 farmers, 64.17% farmers were satisfied with the exiting contents of programmes whereas 35.83% farmers desired to change in the contents of the programmes.\r\n35.83% farmers who desired change in the contents of the programmes approved as ‘self help group’ was the area where majority of the farmers preferred change of medium to high level followed by ‘Information relating to institution providing financial support to the farmers’ by 30.23% farmers, ‘Methods of using insecticides and pesticides’ by 27.90% farmers, ‘Bank loan’ by 25.59%, ‘Guidance about poultry production’, ‘Farmers club’ and ‘Disease outbreak’ by 23.25% farmers, ‘Weather information’ and ‘Techniques of improving the conditions’ by 20.93% farmers, ‘Market price’ and ‘Guidance about dairy’ by 18.60% farmers, ‘Monthly schedule of farming practices of different local crops’ by 16.28% farmers, ‘Subsidies’ by 13.95% farmers, ‘Guidance about animal husbandry’ by 11.62% farmers, ‘New Irrigation method’ by 9.30% farmers, and ‘Non Farm activities’ (6.98%). \r\nRECOMMENDATION\r\nThe following recommendations were made for increasing the effectiveness of farm T.V. programmes:\r\n(i) Timing of the ‘Krishi Darshan’ programme should be at 8.00 P.M. in summer and 7.00 P.M. in winter.\r\n(ii) The duration of the ‘Krishi Darshan’ programme should be increased by 10 to 15 minutes.\r\n(iii) Programmes should telecast on need basis of the farmers. As for Kharif season, progrmmes should telecast only on Kharif releted.\r\n(iv) Farm T. V. programmes should also cover accurate weather forecast.\r\n\r\n','Radhika Tanwar, Nitesh Kumar Tanwar,Annu Devi Gora and N.K. Sharma (2022). Awareness of Farm Television among the Rural Farmers. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 14(2): 779-884.'),(4953,'125','Biomineralization – A Fundamental Approach for Reducing Heavy Metal Toxicity Induced by the Metagenomic Approach','Prasoon Priyadarshi, Daljeet Singh Dhanjal, Reena Singh and Chirag Chopra*','134 Biomineralization – A Fundamental Approach for Reducing Heavy Metal Toxicity Induced by the Metagenomic Approach Chirag Chopra.pdf','',1,'Bacteria, mainly belonging to the genus α-proteobacteria, synthesized and compartmentalized a wide range of diverse chemicals called biominerals. The molecular mechanisms behind the synthesis process of these biominerals are called biomineralization. Magnetotactic bacteria, one of the typical examples of the biomineralization process, synthesized crystals of the magnetic particles in the cell organelles called magnetosomes. This cell organelle further helps the bacteria orient themselves according to the magnetic field of the earth. These microbial communities have adapted themselves to survive in adverse environmental conditions, in this case it is heavy metal tolerance. Apart from the bacteria belonging to the genus α-proteobacteria, other organisms are also involved in the biomineralization process, such as deuterostomes, echinoderms, sea urchins (Strongylocentrotus purpuratus), and a few vertebrates. About 99% of microbes present in the soil are non-culturable in laboratory conditions, so these microorganisms\' DNA samples are directly isolated from the soil sample through a metagenomic approach. The isolated bacterial genome contains many functional genes, and a suitable metagenomic library is prepared to screen and study various noble metabolites present in the bacteria present in the soil microenvironment.Thus, exploration and understanding of these microbes will enable us to unravel the mystery about them in biomineralization process, remediation of heavy metal and open the new avenues in the field of bioremediation. Hence, this review aims to comprehend the information about biomineralization and metagenomic approach. It discusses the potential application of metagenomics in biomineralization and bioremediation.','Biomineralization, Metagenomics, Heavy Metal Toxicity, Magnetotactic bacteria, Humic acid contamination, Metagenomic library','The environment demands immediate response to regulate the industrial discharge and heavy metal contamination, which requires an effective remediation approach and routine monitoring. Considering the economy and efficiency of these approaches, the implementation of metagenomics and bioremediation still imposes a challenge. The remediation of metals from soil and water with the help of microbes is an effective method as microbes have the potential to assimilate carbon, nitrogen, and phosphorus. Moreover, biodegradation is a remarkable choice for ameliorating, cleaning, and restoring the contaminated environment. Owing to their adsorption potential for heavy metal traces, microbes-mediated technique, i.e., metagenomics, is an ideal method for heavy metal removal. The properties of microbes like colonization, growth, and biofilm formation are used to develop new bioremediation processes. Thus, now extensive research is being done in this direction to scale up the lab-scale process to industrial-scale by maintaining the optimum condition and substrate mixture. Furthermore, with the progressive development in genetic techniques, approaches like metagenomics, metaproteomics, metatranscriptomics, and metabolomics will be used in combination to explore the potential of microbial strain, metabolites, and putative genes for bio-transforming the contaminants from the environment. ','INTRODUCTION \r\nApart from this, two evolutionarily distinct groups of bacteria have been capable of biomineralization: 1) Several species of the cyanobacterium phyla, 2) Some Achromatium species in the Gammaproteobacterial class.Achromatism oxaliferum - a sulfur-producing bacteria, was the first bacteria found to have biomineralization properties and was describedby Schewiakoff in 1893. In nature, two pathways of the biomineralization process have been described: Specific gene-mediated biomineralization pathways in which genes, various cell structures, and various transcriptomes are involved (Dhami et al., 2013; Take et al., 2019). The second is biologically induced mineralization, in which mineral precipitation outside the body of organisms occurs due to the chemical shift in the environment of the microorganisms (Marin et al., 2004; Anbu et al., 2016; Görgen et al., 2021). The process of biomineralization is focused not only on prokaryotes but also on eukaryotic organisms that also secrete large amounts of minerals (Vaghela and Pitroda 2019). However, the molecular mechanisms involved in that process remain a mystery among the investigators. Apart from that, Microbial induced calcium carbonate precipitation (MICP) which is an extension of the biomineralization process, has a wide range of potential applications in various fields, and some of the applications are listed below:\r\n1. Removal of heavy metals and radionucleotide from the groundwater\r\n2. Sequestration of atmospheric carbon dioxide through chemical fixation of CO2 in the form of calcite, aragonite, dolomite, and magnesite\r\n3. Biomineralized carbonate is used in construction materials\r\n4. Removal of calcium and polychlorinated biphenyls\r\n5. MICCP technique has been recently reported toproduce a material used as filler in rubber and plastics, fluorescent particles in stationery ink, and a fluorescentmarker (Yoshida et al., 2010).\r\nBiomineralization is a widespread phenomenon occurring in many organisms, including marine invertebrates, echinoderms, various species of molluscs, and magnetotactic bacteria (MTB) (Lefèvre and Bazylinski, 2013). The biominerals synthesized by these organisms have the process of accumulation of multiple minerals inside and outside of the organism. Secreted biominerals have various functions like body structure maintenance, which plays crucial roles in magnetic and gravity sensing and the storage of biominerals(Aggarwal et al., 2021). The process of biomineralization is an enzyme-mediated metabolic pathway that involves a large set of genes in different organisms.\r\nPhoK, PhoN, Salmonella Enterica, Urease gene of the Sporosarcina pasteurii, Isotig 02195, and Isotig00817 gene of Pinctada fucata are the names of a few genes that involve in biomineralization. Various bioinformatics tools have been employed to analyze the sequence of all these genes. Tools used are Blast, KEGG pathway database, Tremble (UniprotKB), Clustalw, and the Go annotations.Go Annotations of the uniport are used to analyze the protein transcriptomes of different cellular functions, molecular interaction, and subcellular localization. CaCO3 crystal accumulation in MTB has been further analyzed using microscopic techniques like TEM and SEM(Liu et al., 2021). The sequence analysis of the genome is done by using various sequencing techniques, like the shotgun technique and next-generation sequencing technique. Both eukaryotes and prokaryotes synthesize a wide range of biominerals, and each molecular crystal has its specific function in the organisms. The functions of a few organic crystals can be summarized in Table 1. \r\nApart from the organisms mentioned above in the table, mollusks and arthropods also secrete various chemicals. Molluscs exoskeleton has almost 95% calcite or carbonate and argonauts, providing toughness and strength. All members of arthropods which make the largest phylum of the animal kingdom, also have a tough and rigid exoskeleton. This hard covering protects against harsh environmental conditions and resistance to desiccation (Colwell et al., 2005). Chitin, polysaccharides, structural proteins, and inorganic minerals such as carbonate and calcium (Bachmeier et al., 2002). Therefore, the current eview intends to comprehend the information about biomineralization and metagenomic approach. And also discusses about the potential usage of metagenomics in biomineralization and bioremediation.\r\nFUNDAMENTAL UNDERSTANDING OF METAGENOMICS \r\nMetagenomics is a new emerging domain of environmental biotechnology that allows us to extract DNA from non-culturable microbes and further use it to \r\nstudy and express novel genes, enzymes, and its application in medicine, environmental biodegradation preparation of metagenomic libraries, and biosurfactants. In 1985, Pace and his colleagues were the first individuals who proposed the idea of cloning DNA samples directly from the environment. The DNA obtained from Environmental samples is identified as a metagenome and is widely used for discovering new species, Studying various cellular and metabolic pathways (Alves et al., 2018). Multiple studies suggest that the microbial metagenomic community can act as a potential biomarker for identifyingvarious air, water, and soil pollution (Kisand et al., 2012). It has been observed that the accumulation of certain pollutants in the environment triggers the expression of specific microbial genes. For example, if any niche has cyclo- hexane accumulation, then it induces the expression of the cyclohexane degrading enzyme (Techtmann et al., 2016). Apart from this, various other bioactive compounds, bioremediation bacteria, and other enzymes with potential environmental pollution degradation activity have been identified and analyzed through a metagenomic approach. Carboxylesterase, monooxygenase, laccases, Esterases, phenol degrading enzymes, polyaromatichydrolyzing enzymes, etc. are a few enzymes that have been discovered and analyzed through a metagenomic approach. (Ufarte et al., 2015)\r\nThe gene content and organization of gene clusters in MTB bacteria have also been identified and analyzed through the environmental DNA sample and metagenomic approach applying the shotgun DNA sequencing technique.\r\n1. The sequential steps one should follow during handling non-culturable microorganisms.\r\n2. Selection of metagenomic samples directly from the environment containing a mix of microbes.\r\n3. Genomic DNA Isolation \r\n4. Construction of the metagenomic library containing a large no of short DNA sequence\r\n5. Sequence information from these libraries \r\n6. Identification of a metabolic pathway \r\n7. Species identification through comparative analysis.\r\n8. Identification of the new coding sequence \r\n9. Genome Annotation \r\n10. Development of a bioinformatics tool and server for storing these sequences and analyzing them. \r\nThe schematic representation of different metagenomic approaches used to understand microbial niches is illustrated in Fig. 1.\r\nLIMITATIONS OF THE METAGENOMIC APPROACH IN THE LIGHT OF BIOREMEDIATION & BIOMINERALIZATION\r\nThere are various disadvantages to using the metagenomic approach for studying genes and their synthesized enzymes. (Alves et al., 2018).\r\nIn metagenomic DNA, there are fewer genes available that synthesize enzymes. And these Enzymes are not worked very well in environmental conditions, which further makes it difficult to understand their potential environmental pollution marker and their application in biomineralization and bioremediation.\r\nVarious enzymes do not show any expression in the express expression vector like E. coli.\r\nCONCEPT OF THE METAGENOMIC LIBRARY\r\nThere have been many studies done in the areas of aquatic systems, soil microbiota, and plant microbiota to understand the significance of the construction of the metagenomic library and its screening of a particular gene or an enzyme. Apart from this metagenomic DNA library from the soil or aquatic microbiota have many the functional gene from the unculturable bacteria, further opening the way for discovering various novel metabolites (Daniel et al., 2007). 99% of the soil bacteria cannot be cultivated under laboratory conditions which further indicates microbial diversity and the Nobel functional insert in the metagenomic library (Courtois et al., 2003). The construction of metagenomic libraries plays an essential role in functional genomics, allowingus to study the function of a particular gene involving DNA extraction from the soil sample, expressing the genes in the host, and further screening and checking its enzymatic activity. \r\nGENOMIC DNA ISOLATION PROTOCOL\r\nThe reagent\'s requirements and their respective concentrations will differ for the different organisms. The source from which extract genomic DNA mainly includes soil bacteria, plants, fungi, and mammalian cell lines. \r\n— Bacterial Genomic DNA isolation: 0.2% of SDS used along with lysozyme enzyme responsible for the breakdown of the peptidoglycan layer of the cell wall.\r\n— Animal Genomic DNA isolation: Macrozymes are used as cell lysis and tissue buffer along with 0.1% of SDS detergent. \r\n— Fungi genomic DNA isolation- 1% of SDS along with Zymolyase T, the mixture of different types of chitinase enzymes. \r\n— Plant genomic DNA Extraction - Cellulase enzyme is used to break the cellulose component of the cell wall. \r\n— Humic Acid Removal methods used in Metagenomic DNA extraction protocol.\r\nVarious contaminants like urea, humic acid, and polysaccharides are present in the soil with similar solubility propertiesto DNA. All these contaminants interfere with DNA isolation and analysis. Humic acids are not easily removed through classical DNA extraction protocols such as Phenol extraction. Various methods are applied to remove the humic acid from the soil sample,including microwave-based methods (Orsisni et al., 2001) and bead beading lysis (Miller et al., 1999). Besides these methods, cesium chloride density centrifugation (Leff et al., 1995) and hexadecyltrimethylammonium bromide (Cho et al., 1996) also shows a very good amount of DNA on the agarose gel, which is free from the humic acid. Moreover, Aluminum sulfate is also used to remove the humic acid from the soil.\r\nCONNECTING THE LINK BETWEEN BIOMINERALIZATION AND METAGENOMIC\r\nThe metagenomic approach has been studied that in modern microbialites the non-cyanobacterial lineage plays a crucial role in Calcium carbonate precipitation. The 16s and 18s rRNA genes collected from metagenomic samples and sequencing through Illumina suggest the presence of broad diversity of bacteria and eukaryotes and a minor presence of archaea (Couradeau et al., 2013). Also, the Cyanobacteria belonging to order pleurocapsales are present in abundant numbers in deeper sections of microbialites (Couradeau et al., 2013). The metagenomic libraries of the Magnetotactic bacteria such as Magnetospirillum gryphiswaldense and freshwater magneto spirillum suggest that genes controlling the Magento tactic property are located within four significant operons (mamAB, mamGFDC, mms6, and mamXY). (Fukuda et al., 2006). In the recent study, deletion of the operon region of the mamGFDC and mms6 responsible for the reduction and various types of size and morphological defects of magnetite crystals, and further if anyhow the Magnetotactic bacteria get devoid of mamAB operon then it will have resulted in the loss entire magnetite crystals. (Muruat et al., 2010).\r\nHEAVY METAL TOXICITY AND BIOREMEDIATION THROUGH BIOMINERALIZATION\r\nHeavy metals are defined as metallic elements having a high molecular weight and having a specific density that is five times greater than water (Fergusson et al., 1999). The excessive use of heavy metals in numerous areas such as the industry, domestic, agriculture, and medical application have created an adverse impact on human health and metabolisms and environmental implications. (Bradl et al., 2000). There are various heavy metals such as copper (Cu), nickel (Ni), iron (Fe), chromium (Cr), magnesium (Mg), and Selenium (Se) are very useful and essential for numerous metabolic pathways, but exposure to some other heavy metal such as cadmium (Cd), lead (Pb), Chromium (Cr) and arsenic (As) has a very negative impact on the health of living organisms (Jen et al., 2017; Silva et al., 2005).\r\nAfter understanding the harmful effect of heavy metals on public health and the environment, removing these toxic elements from the environment becomes critical and essential. Remediation of the heavy metals from the groundwater through radionuclides in recent times has become a very effective measure to remove the various heavy metals from the groundwater. (Fujita et al., 2004). Through biomineralization, the radionuclide and the contaminant metals are incorporated into the calcite lattice via a competitive co-precipitation reaction.\r\n90Sr2+ + OH- + HCO-3 = SrCO3 (s) + H2O\r\nThe calcium ions are substituted into the mineral precipitate, and cations and radionuclides integrate into the calcite structure, which further forms the strontium carbonate with low solubility in the water.\r\n','Prasoon Priyadarshi, Daljeet Singh Dhanjal, Reena Singh and Chirag Chopra (2022). Biomineralization – A Fundamental Approach for Reducing Heavy Metal Toxicity Induced by the Metagenomic Approach. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 14(2): 785-789.'),(4954,'125','Insights of Genetic Divergence through Mahalanobis’ D2 Statistics among American Cotton (Gossypium hirsutum L.) Genotypes','Ravindra Kumar Meena*, Ram Kishor Meena, Prakashkumar Ranchhodbhai Patel, Laxmansingh Dolatsingh Parmar, Jaishree Tanwar, Ganesh Kumar Koli, Deepak Kumar, Om Prakash Yadav \r\nand Sandeep Kumar Pancholi\r\n','135 Insights of Genetic Divergence through Mahalanobis’ D2 Statistics among American Cotton _Gossypium hirsutum L._ Genotypes RAVINDRA KUMAR MEENA.pdf','',1,'In any crop improvement programme, genetic diversity provides opportunity for researchers to develop new improved varieties with desirable traits, which accommodates both farmers and breeders preferred traits. The aim of this study was to characterize the genetic diversity of twenty-five genotypes of cotton and the genotypes were evaluated in randomized complete block design with four replications during kharif, 2019 at Agronomy Instructional Farm, SDAU, Sardarkrushinagar. The results of multivariate analysis revealed that the genotypes grown had significant genetic divergence and the genotypes grouped into six clusters using Tocher\'s method in D2 analysis. The cluster with the maximum genotypes was Cluster I, followed by Cluster VI. Cluster VI had the greatest intra-cluster distance and maximum inter cluster distance was calculated between cluster V and cluster VI. Inter cluster distances were greater than intra cluster distances, indicating that the genotypes differed significantly. Crosses between genotypes of these clusters can be made based on these studies to create suitable transgressive segregants. According to Mahalanobis\' D2 statistic, fibre strength, followed by lint yield per plant, number of bolls per plant and oil content, contributed the most to the overall genetic divergence. It can be concluded that choosing divergent parents based on these attributes would be advantageous in terms of maximising diversity.','Cluster, Cotton, Diversity, Genotypes, Selection','Because genotypes from the same area were scattered into different clusters and genotypes from different areas were grouped in the same cluster, genetic diversity was independent of geographic regions. As a result, rather than relying solely on geographical diversity, the breeder must evaluate his material for genetic diversity. The current findings suggest that in the future, when developing a breeding programme to improve seed cotton yield, more emphasis should be placed on the number of bolls per plant, boll weight, ginning percentage and lint yield per plant.','INTRODUCTION\r\nCotton (Gossypium hirsutum L.), a crop of prosperity, is an industrial commodity of worldwide importance. It is one of the most ancient and important commercial crop next only to food grains. Cotton is grown for its lint, which is a major textile raw material, and for its seed cotton, which produces oil and protein. It is also known as \"white gold\" because of its importance in agriculture as well as in industrial economy. Cotton belongs to Malvaceae family and the Gossypium genus. According to Percival and Kohel (1990) the genus Gossypium includes 49 species, four are cultivated, 43 are wild diploids and two, wild tetraploids, of the four cultivated species, G.hirsutum and G. barbadense are allotetraploids (2n=4x=52), commonly called as new world cotton. G. hirsutum also known as upland cotton, long staple cotton or Mexican cotton, produces 90 per cent of the world’s cotton; G. barbadense, also known as Sea Island cotton, extra-long staple cotton, American Pima or Egyptian cotton, contributes 8 per cent of the world’s cotton; Whereas G. arboreum and G. herbaceum are diploids (2n=2x=26) and commonly called as old world or Asiatic cotton. G. herbaceum, known as Levant cotton and G. arboreum, known as Tree cotton, together provides 2 per cent of the world’s cotton (Zhang et al., 2008). India has a pride place in the global cotton scenario due to several reasons, including the largest cotton growing area, cultivation of all four cultivated species, a large area under tetraploid cotton, one of the largest producers of long and extra-long staple cotton, possibly the only country to grow hybrid cotton, the native home of old cultivated cotton, and a wide range of agro-climatic conditions under which cotton is grown. India is the world\'s largest cotton producer, with 13.47 million hectares and 36.07 million bales of cotton lint produced at an average productivity of 455 kg per ha (Anonymous, 2020). The cultivation of Bt cotton, favourable seasons, and good agronomic practises are the main reasons for high yield and productivity. G. hirsutum\'s higher yield potential and adaptability have been improved through breeding and genetic manipulation. Similarly, the superior fibre characteristics of the G. barbadense species have been emphasised in the development of commercial cultivars in that species, despite the fact that G. barbadense has a unique nature of high quality fibre, its production is limited due to its lower yield potential. Despite the fact that G. hirsutum leads fibre production, modern spinning techniques and end users have created demands to improve its quality (Felker et al., 2001). Advancement in the cotton improvement programme is largely dependent on genetic diversity in the base population\'s metric traits.\r\nIt is necessary to estimate the amount of variability present in a population in order to exploit it for trait improvement, which is required for genetic improvement in any crop species. Genetic distance estimations are used in hybrid crop breeding to select parental combinations with appropriate genetic diversity and to classify germplasm into distinct heterotic groups (Chakraborty et al., 2021). Cotton breeders\' ultimate goal is to develop varieties and hybrids with desirable fibre traits and high seed cotton yield. It is necessary to measure the genetic diversity among the genotypes in order to select elite parents for the hybridization programme, as genetic diversity plays an important role in generating heterosis in hybrids between genotypes. Mahalanobis\' D2 statistics is an effective too for determining the degree of genetic divergence at the genotypic level, as well as a measure of the relationship between geographic distribution and genetic diversity based on generalised distance (Mahalanobis, 1928). Multivariate analysis, utilizing Mahalanobis’ D2 statistics has been found to be a potent biometrical tool in quantifying the degree of divergence in germplasm collection of various crop plants (Rao, 1952). Without making crosses before starting the hybridization programme, the D2 statistic can be used to select parent combinations (Bhatt, 1970).\r\nAn experiment by Kulkarni et al. (2011) revealed that genetic diversity is not entirely dependent on geographical diversity. Inter-cluster distances were found to be greater than intra-cluster distances, indicating that the genotypes studied have a high level of genetic diversity. High magnitude of heterosis or desirable segregants can be produced by taking inter-cluster distances into account during the hybridization process. Based on Mahalanobis D2 analysis, Asha et al. (2013) studied genetic diversity in forty cotton genotypes for fifteen quantitative characters, which were grouped into seven clusters, with clusters I and III being the largest, each with eight genotypes, and cluster IV having seven genotypes. The lack of parallelism between geographical and genetic diversity was revealed by the random distribution of genotypes. Cotton genetic diversity was studied by Bhimate et al. (2019), Tocher\'s method was used to divide the 36 genotypes into nine clusters and eleven traits. Cluster I had the most genotypes (21) and Cluster VIII had the fewest (7), while Cluster VII and Cluster VIII had the greatest cluster distance D=59.36, followed by Cluster VI and IX (50.13). Days to 50% flowering were the most important factor in genetic divergence (28.89%), followed by seed index (21.59%) and seed cotton yield per plant (both 21.59%). (13.02 %). Satish (2021) investigated genetic diversity in upland cotton using 55 genotypes by D2 statistics for yield and contributing traits. The 55 genotypes were divided into six groups, which explained 91.8 percent of the variability. The maximum divergence among genotypes L1785, L1687, L1748, L1780, L1783, and L 604 was detected in the multivariate analysis, indicating that crosses between these genotypes will produce highly heterotic hybrids.\r\nIn light of the foregoing, the current study was conducted to look into the genetic diversity of yield, yield contributing traits and fibre traits.\r\nMATERIALS AND METHODS\r\nThe current study was conducted at the S. D. Agricultural University\'s Agronomy Instructional Farm in Sardarkrushinagar during Kharif, 2019. The experimental material consisted of twenty-five cotton genotypes obtained from the Cotton Research Station, Talod, and evaluated using Randomized Block Design (RBD) with four replications in Kharif, 2019-20. Each genotype was sown in 6 m long rows with a 90 cm row spacing and 60 cm between plants. To raise a healthy crop, recommended agronomical and plant protection practises were followed throughout the crop season. In each replication, five competitive plants per genotype were chosen at random and labelled for recording observations. Data were statistically analyzed using the mean of the five plants chosen. At CIRCOT, Mumbai, observations on fibre quality traits in each replication were recorded using a High Volume Instrument (HVI) in ICC mode. The standard procedure suggested by Fisher was used to analyse the variance of the observations recorded on different characters (1925). According to Rao (1952), Mahalanobis\' D2 statistics were used to estimate genetic diversity.\r\nRESULTS AND DISCUSSION\r\nThe degree of values suggested that there was significant variability in the material studied which led to genetic diversity. Using Tocher\'s approach (Rao, 1952), the twenty-five genotypes were divided into six clusters with the condition that intra-cluster average D2 values should be less than inter-cluster D2 values. The distributions of genotypes into six clusters presented in Table 1 and diagrammatically in Fig. 1.\r\nThe cluster I had highest number of genotypes (19) followed by cluster VI (2). The cluster II, III, IV and V were mono-genotypic. Geographic obstacles restricting gene movement or intensive natural and human selection for varied and adaptable gene complexes may be responsible for the establishment of different isolated clusters. With rare exceptions, the observed genotype grouping pattern was irrespective of their geographical origin.\r\nCluster I had the most genotypes, with 19 genotypes from various regions, which could be due to the free flow of breeding material from one location to another, as well as the unidirectional selection practised by breeders in different locations. Furthermore, genotypes from various eco-geographical regions were grouped together in the same cluster, implying that there was no link between geographic and genetic diversity. Genotypes from the same cluster are more closely related than genotypes from different clusters. Similar findings of Kulkarni et al. (2011); Asha et al. (2013); Kavithamani et al. (2013) corroborated that the distribution of genotypes from different eco-geographical regions into clusters was at random, indicating geographical distribution does not necessarily exhibit genetic divergence. Asha et al. (2013); Bhimate et al. (2019), showed cluster I contained the maximum number of genotypes.\r\nThe intra and inter-cluster D2 and D values among six clusters are given in Table 2 and the mutual relationship between clusters is represented diagrammatically (Fig. 2) by taking average intra and inter cluster Euclidean distances. The clustering pattern revealed that varieties from different sources were grouped together in one group, while varieties from the same source formed separate clusters, indicating that there was no correlation between geographic and genetic divergence. Murthy and Arunachalam (1966) stated that genetic drift and selection in different environment could cause greater diversity than geographical distance. Intra cluster average D2 values ranged from 17.97 to 34.29. Among the clusters, Cluster VI had the maximum intra-cluster distance (34.29) while the minimum intra cluster distance was observed for cluster I (17.97). The zero intra clusters distance was observed for cluster II, III, IV and V. These four clusters (II, III, IV and V) were a solitary cluster. Cluster VI has a high intra-cluster distance, indicating that the genotypes within this cluster have a lot of genetic diversity.\r\nCluster V and Cluster VI had the greatest inter cluster distance (106.28), followed by Cluster IV and V. (105.65). This indicated that these clusters have a good amount of genetic diversity. Crosses between genotypes of these clusters can be made based on these studies to obtain desirable transgressive segregants. Cluster I and II were found to have the shortest inter-cluster distance (5.41).Cluster I had the largest distance from cluster VI (64.12) followed by cluster V (53.09) and cluster IV (41.79). The inter cluster distance between cluster I and II (29.74) and cluster I and III (31.08) was comparatively of two magnitude. The distance between cluster II and IV (90.27) was highest followed by cluster VI (67.13), cluster III (38.61) and cluster V (35.04). The closest cluster from the cluster II was cluster I (29.74). The cluster V (90.91) was far away from cluster III followed by cluster VI (87.20), cluster IV (54.44) and cluster II (38.61). The cluster I (31.08) was nearest to cluster III. Cluster IV depicted maximum distance from cluster V (105.65), which was followed by cluster VI (91.10), cluster II (90.27) and cluster III (54.44). Whereas, it had minimum D2 value with cluster I (41.79). The distance between cluster V and cluster VI (106.28) was highest followed by cluster IV (105.65), cluster III (90.91) and cluster I (53.09). Whereas, the cluster II (35.04) was nearest to cluster V. Cluster VI had the largest distance from cluster V (106.28), which was followed by cluster IV (91.10), Cluster III (87.20) and cluster II (67.13). The cluster I (64.12) was nearest to cluster VI. Choice of the particular cluster and selection of particular genotype from selected cluster are the two important points to be considered before initiating the crossing programme. The hybrids between varieties of different clusters will express high heterosis and throw more useful segregants. Further, one or two varieties from different clusters may be chosen for further genetic studies either by diallel or line × tester analysis.\r\nTable 3 shows the mean cluster performance for 16 characters. Days to flowering, days to boll bursting, plant height (cm), number of monopodia per plant, number of sympodia per plant, number of bolls per plant, boll weight (gm), ginning percent, lint yield per plant, seed index, seed cotton yield per plant, oil content (%), 2.5 percent span length, micronaire (106 g/inch), and fibre strength (g/tex) all showed significant inter cluster variation. It is imperative from the results that character wise contribution differs from cluster to cluster, so far improvement of a particular character can be carried out by utilizing genotypes from the respective cluster having the highest mean values for it. Thus, clustering pattern and deciding the cross combinations which may generate the highest variability for various traits. The superior genotypes for the breeding program can also be selected based on cluster means and inter cluster distance. Higher mean values for boll weight were seen in clusters V (3.77 g) and VI (3.65 g) and higher mean for number of bolls per plant was observed in clusters VI (31.15) and II (19.87), which are the major contributors in improving seed cotton yield per plant in cotton. Based on mean values, series of diallel analysis may prove highly successful breeding programme.\r\nIn Table 4 and Fig. 3, the contribution of each character to total genetic diversity is shown. A breeder\'s understanding of the characters that influence divergence is crucial. According to character rank, no single character contributed more to total genetic divergence than lonely.\r\nFibre strength (22.00 %), lint yield per plant (21.67 %), number of bolls per plant (14.00 %), and oil content (14.00 %) contributed the most to total divergence of the 16 characters studied. Other traits such as days to flowering (0.33 %), micronaire (0.33 %), lint index (0.33 %), 2.5% span length (1.00 %), seed cotton yield per plant (2.00 %), and sympodia per plant (2.33 %) played a minor role in the divergence. Similar findings were also reported by Vijayalaxmi et al. (2008); Gopinath et al. (2009). The success of the plant breeding program depends largely on the selection of appropriate parents. The use of divergent parents in hybridization is expected to result in promising recombinants. The amount of genetic variability in the population has a big impact on genetic improvement.\r\n','Ravindra Kumar Meena, Ram Kishor Meena, Prakashkumar Ranchhodbhai Patel, Laxmansingh Dolatsingh Parmar, Jaishree Tanwar, Ganesh Kumar Koli, Deepak Kumar, Om Prakash Yadav and Sandeep Kumar Pancholi (2022). Insights of Genetic Divergence through Mahalanobis’ D2 Statistics among American Cotton (Gossypium hirsutum L.) Genotypes. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 14(2): 790-795.'),(4955,'125','Organic and Inorganic Nutrient Implications on Nutrient Content in Sugarcane Seed Crop','P. Vinayalakshmi*, M. Martin Luther, M. Bharathalakshmi, Ch. Sujani Rao and V. Srinivasa Rao','136 Organic and Inorganic Nutrient Implications on Nutrient Content in Sugarcane Seed Crop P. Vinayalakshmi.pdf','',1,'The seedcane plants should be fertilized in the same way as that of commercial cane fields for maintenance of soil fertility and crop productivity in a sustainable manner which is possible through an appropriate combination of organics, inorganics and bio-fertilizers in an integrated manner to harness their complementary advantage. Considering the role of organic, inorganic and biofertilizers in mineral nutrition of sugarcane seed crop. The experiment was laid out in split-plot design with three main treatments viz., a control and two organic sources-biofertilizer mixture and trash mulching with bio-decomposers and six sub plot treatments where nitrogen and potassium applied in different doses and timings and replicated thrice. The results showed that combined application of biofertilizers or trash mulching along with 125% Soil Test Based Nitrogen and Potassium (STBNK)applied at 30 days interval + additional 25% RDK one month before harvesting recorded higher N, P and K of whole cane plant and was at par with 100% STBNK applied at 30 days interval + additional 25% RDK one month before harvesting. ','Biofertilizer mixture, nutrient content, soil test based nitrogen and potassium, sugarcane seed crop and trash mulching','Therefore, it may be concluded that supply of nutrients for seedcane crop through integrated use of biofrtilizer mixture, trash mulching along with 125% Soil Test Based Nitrogen and Potassium applied at 30 days interval + additional 25% RDK one month before harvesting brought significant increase in N, P and K content in whole cane plant and it was on par with 100% STBNK applied at 30 days interval + additional 25% RDK one month before harvesting. ','INTRODUCTION\r\nSugarcane (Saccharum officinarum L.) is an important commercial crop both globally and nationally. It supports livelihood of majority of rural population of India as it is labor intensive crop. Brazil holds the first position in sugarcane production followed by India. In India, Uttar Pradesh ranks first for sugarcane production. In 2020-21, India produced 370.50 Mt of sugarcane under the area 4.60 million hectares with the average productivity of 80.49 tons per hectare (DAC, 2020-21). Sugarcane is a long duration exhaustive crop requires high quantity of nutrient while continuous planting in same field depletes the soil nutrient heavily (Ghaffar, 2009). Sugarcane removes about 205 kg N, 55 kg P2O5 and 275 kg K2O from the soil for cane yield of 100 t/ha (Singh & Srivastava, 2011). In general, farmers use matured cane, cut into two or three budded setts and used as seed material which results in reduced germination percentage and low crop stand establishment leads to less yields. Well treated and nourished seedcanes have been found to have good germination capacity and vigour of the subsequent crop (Bikila et al., 2014). Therefore, quality seed production is the essential requisite of sugarcane farmer for elevating cane yield for that seedcane plants are fertilized in the same way as the commercial cane plants despite the difference in purpose of production. Mostly the source of nutrients added to sugarcane cropping is inorganic fertilizers and continuous addition of inorganic fertilizers may lead to environmental problems due to the leaching of soluble nutrients into deeper soil layers (Stamford et al., 2014). Integration of organic sources with fertilizers has also been found to enhance the nutrient use efficiency of the crop as the efficiency of sugarcane to utilize applied N ranges from 16 to 45% owing to leaching of a large quantity of applied N (Yadav and Prasad, 1992). Increasing and extending the role of inoculation with microorganisms (biofertilizers) may reduce the need for chemical fertilizers and thereby decrease adverse environmental effects (Govindarajan et al., 2008). However, most of the research was conducted by using single bacteria which has role to increase the availability of a certain nutrient. Mixed inoculants of N2-Fixing, P and K Solubilizing bacteria was able to improve available soil N, P, and K and kiwi fruit growth (Shen et al., 2016). To get better benefit from biofertilizer application, it is essential that the bacterial culture be used in combination with suitable level of fertilizer (Hari and Srinivasan, 2005). N, P and K are major essential macronutrients for plant growth and development and hence they are commonly added as fertilizer to optimize yield (Chelvi, 2017). Insufficient or un-timely supply of N fertilizer applied to sugarcane would result in poor growth, thin stems and short nodes (Bell et al., 2014). So, it is necessary to recommend optimum rate and time of N & K application. Surface organic mulch such as sugarcane trash is used to conserve soil moisture, moderating soil temperature extremes, checking weed growth and adding organic matter to soils and thereby create better physical, chemical and biological environment of soils and in turn, improves crop productivity (Kumar et al., 2015). Hence, the objective of the research was to investigate the effect of NPK fertilizer added with biofertilizer mixture and trash mulch on nutrient content of sugarcane seed crop.\r\nMATERIAL AND METHODS\r\nThe Field research was conducted at the Regional Agricultural Research Station, Anakapalle, Andhra Pradesh for two consecutive years during 2019-20 and 2020-21. The experimental soil was sandy clay in texture, neutral in reaction and medium in organic carbon, low in available nitrogen, high in available phosphorus and medium in available potassium. The experiment was laid out in split-plot design with three main treatments viz., M1-control, M2-biofertilizer mixture (Azospirillum, Phosphorus Solubilizing Bacteria, Potassium Releasing Bacteria each @ 1250 ml ha-1 and VAM @ 12.5 kg ha-1) and M3 -trash mulching with bio-decomposers and six sub plot treatments viz., S1-75% STBNK at planting, 30, 60, 90, 120 DAP + additional dose of 25% recommended K one month before harvesting, S2-75% STBNK at planting, 45, 90, 135 and 180 DAP, S3-100% STBNK at planting, 30, 60, 90, 120 DAP + additional dose of 25% recommended K one month before harvesting, S4-100% STBNK at planting, 45, 90, 135 and 180 DAP, S5-125% STBNK at planting, 30, 60, 90, 120 DAP + additional dose of 25% recommended K one month before harvesting, S6-125% STBNK at planting, 45, 90, 135 and 180 DAP, replicated thrice. Nitrogen, phosphorus and potassium were applied in the form of neem coated urea, SSP and MOP, respectively. Irrigations were provided as and when required. Earthing up was done manually at 120 days age of the crop. Trash twist propping was done at 5th month age by “trash twist” method. Whole cane plant samples were collected at 60, 120, 180 DAP and at harvest, cut into pieces and fresh weight was taken then oven dried, powdered, dry weight was determined and analysed for nutrient contents of N,P and K using standard methods (Bremner, 1965, Koeing and Johnson, 1942 and Jackson, 1973, respectively). The data were analysed as per the standard analysis of variance procedure for split plot design by Rangaswamy (2013).\r\nRESULTS AND DISCUSSION\r\nNitrogen Content (%). Nitrogen content in seedcane whole plant was not influenced by organic sources at 60 and 120 DAP during both the years of study and in pooled data. While, at 180 DAP, nitrogen content was significantly influenced by organic sources (Table 1). Higher nitrogen content was observed with application of Azospirillum, PSB, KRB each @ 1250 ml ha-1 and VAM @ 12.5 kg ha-1 (M2) and trash mulching (M3) and both were superior to control (M1) during first year of the study. An identical trend was exhibited at harvest during both the years of experimentation and in pooled data as well. \r\nIn the second year of experimentation and in pooled data, higher nitrogen content was registered with M2 and found statistically comparable with M3 and both exhibited significant superiority over control. These results were in accordance with that of Rawat (2021); Babu (2009b). The buildup of nitrogen content in plants might be due to greater multiplication of microbes owing to trash application which lead to more N mineralization in soil resulting in higher N availability apart from that of inoculated Azospirillum fixing atmospheric nitrogen in soil which inturn was taken up by plants.\r\nApplication of nitrogen and potassium at different time and levels had significant effect on nitrogen content at all the growth stages. At 60 DAP, application of 125% STBNK at 30 days interval + additional 25% recommended dose of K one month before harvesting (S5) had perceptibly increased the nitrogen content. However, 125% STBNK applied at 45 days interval (S6), 100% STBNK at 30 days interval + additional dose of 25% recommended K one month before harvesting (S3) and 100% STBNK applied at 45 days interval (S4) were comparable. The significantly lower nitrogen content was observed with 75% STBNK alone applied at 45 days interval (S2) followed by 75% STBNK applied at 30 days interval + additional 25% recommended dose of K one month before harvesting (S1) over 125% STBNK applied plots. Similar trend was observed at 120 DAP and at harvest during both the years of study and also with pooled data. \r\nWhereas at 180 DAP, higher nitrogen content was associated with S5 treatment which maintains parity with S6 and S3 treatments and differed significantly with S1, S2 and S4 treatments during 2019-20. In the second year of experimentation and in pooled data, S5 maintained parity with S4 treatment in addition to S6 and S3 treatments. The increase in nitrogen content in response to higher fertilizer levels were in conformity with the present findings of Shankaraiah and Hunsigi (2000); Rawat (2021). With increase in N supply, availability, acquisition, mobilization and influx into the plant tissues increased with balanced N supply might be the possible reason for more N content in plants. \r\nPhosphorus Content (%). Phosphorus content at 180 DAP and at harvest was significantly affected by organic sources whereas, at 60 and 120 DAP it was found to be non significant (Table 2). Application of Azospirillum, PSB, KRB each @ 1250 ml ha-1 and VAM @ 12.5 kg ha-1and trash mulching with bio-decomposers recorded higher phosphorus content and both exhibited superiority over control at 180 DAP during both the years and in pooled data. \r\nAt harvest even though M2 registered higher phosphorus content, found comparable with M3 and both found significantly superior to M1 during 2019-20 and in pooled data whereas during 2020-21, only M2 found superior to M1. More P content in seedcane could be ascribed to reduced phosphorus sorption leading to greater mobilization of phosphorus in soil and also solubilisation of sparingly soluble phosphorus compounds into soluble compounds by the applied PSB thereby augmenting its availability to plants (Babu, 2009; Banerjee et al., 2018; Rawat, 2021).\r\nWith reference to different doses and time of N and K application, the perceptibly increased phosphorus content in whole plant at 60 DAP was noticed with S5, S6, S3 treatments and maintained parity with 100% STBNK alone applied at 45 days interval during 2019-20. The lower phosphorus content was observed with less fertilizer applied plots of S2 and S1 treatments. Similar trend was invariably observed at 120 DAP during both the years of experimentation and also in pooled data. In the second year of experimentation, at 60 DAP the higher phosphorus content in whole plant was recorded with S5, S6, S3 and S4 treatments and showed significant superiority over S1 and S2 treatments. Whereas in pooled data, treatment S5 registered more phosphorus content in whole plant and it was statistically on par with S6, S3 and S4 treatments.\r\nAt 180 DAP during 2019-20, more phosphorus content in whole plant was recorded with S5, S6 and S3 treatments and showed significant superiority over S1, S2 and S4 treatments. While during 2020-21, treatment S5 registered more phosphorus content in whole plant and it was statistically on par with S6, S3 and S4 treatments. In pooled data, S5, S6 and S3 treatments recorded equal phosphorus content and significantly superior to S1 and S2 treatments.\r\nAt harvest S5, S6 and S3 treatments registered higher phosphorus content and exhibited significant superiority over all other treatments during 2019-20 while, during 2020-21 higher phosphorus content was noticed with S5, S6, S3 and S4 treatments. In pooled data, S5, S6 and S3 treatments recorded equal phosphorus content and significantly superior to S1 and S2 treatments. The least phosphorus content was noted with S2 treatment during both the years of study and in pooled data. \r\nBabu (2009) also observed that application of high fertilizer dose i.e., 100% resulted in more phosphorus content in cane plants than lower dose i.e., 75%.\r\nPotassium Content (%). A glance at the data on potassium content indicated that potassium content was uninfluenced by various organic sources used in this study at all growth stages except at harvest (Table 3). At harvest, higher potassium content was documented with M2 treatment and M3 treatments and both the treatments were superior to M1 during 2019-20 and in pooled data. While, during 2020-21 higher potassium content was documented with M2 treatment and it was closely followed by M3 and both were comparable with each other and exhibited significant superiority over control. This may be due to addition of organic manures that facilitates availability of plant nutrients directly to plants through solubilising effect on fixed forms thereby more nutrients available for absorption by plants thus more nutrient content in plants. \r\nBanerjee et al. (2018) also reported that higher potassium content in cane plants was observed with application of biofertilizers along with inorganic fertilizers than application of only inorganics.\r\nThe data presented in Table 3 revealed that various sub plot treatments had exerted significant effect on potassium content at all the growth stages. At 60 DAP, S5 treatment exerted remarkable influence in increasing potassium content. However, it was statistically on par with S6, S3 and S4. The least potassium content was observed with plots receiving lower dose of fertilizers i.e., S2 and S1 during first year of experimentation and in pooled data. Similar trend of treatments performance continued with regard to potassium content at 120 DAP during 2020-21 and in pooled data.\r\nWhile during 2020-21, the higher potassium content was observed with S5 and S6 treatments and were statistically comparable with S3 and S4 treatments. At 120 DAP during 2019-20 similar trend of treatments performance observed with regard to potassium content.\r\nAt 180 DAP, S5 treatment recorded significantly higher potassium content over S2 and S1 treatments and found on par with S6, S3 and S4 during 2019-20 and 2020-21 and with S6 and S3 in pooled data. Conspicuously, lower potassium content was noticed with S2 and S1 treatments which might be due to low availability of K with less fertilizer applied plots. Higher potassium content with the execution of 125% STBNK might be due more available K under these treatments. These results corroborates with the findings of Madhuri et al. (2011).\r\nAt harvest, the higher potassium content was registered with S3, S5 and S6 treatments and was comparable with S4 treatment during 2019-20. Whereas in the second year of experimentation, higher potassium content was observed with S5 and S6 treatments and was comparable with S3 and S4 treatments. In pooled data, S5 recorded significantly higher potassium content over S1 and S2 treatments and found on par with S6, S3 and S4 treatments. Conspicuously lower potassium content was observed with lower dose of fertilizers i.e., S2 and S1 during both the years of experimentation and in pooled data.\r\nN, P and K content of whole cane did not differ significantly due to interaction between organic sources and time and dose of nitrogen and potassium application at all the growth stages during 2019-20, 2020-21 and in pooled data. \r\n \r\n','P. Vinayalakshmi, M. Martin Luther, M. Bharathalakshmi, Ch. Sujani Rao and V. Srinivasa Rao (2022). Organic and Inorganic Nutrient Implications on Nutrient Content in Sugarcane Seed Crop. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 14(2): 796-800.'),(4956,'125','Profitable Green Manure Crops for Rabi Fallows of Southern Telangana Zone','Sanjana M.*, G. S. Madhu Bindu, B. Padmaja, M. Uma Devi and S. Triveni','137 Profitable Green Manure Crops for Rabi Fallows of Southern Telangana Zone Sanjana M.pdf','',1,'A research trial conducted to assess the performance of selected legume green manure crops in terms of yield and economics during rabi at College of Agriculture, Rajendranagar indicated that the seed and stover yields were highest for cowpea (2128 kg ha-1) and sunhemp (7522 kg ha-1), respectively. The total cost incurred in the cultivation of green manure crops was expressed as cost of cultivation per hectare (` ha-1). The price of inputs prevailing at the time of their use was taken into consideration to work out the cost of cultivation. The yields of the green manure crops were converted into the equivalent yield of cowpea based on the price of the produce. The cowpea equivalent yield of different green manure crops pointed out the superiority of cowpea in achieving higher yield (2128 kg ha-1) during rabi and its advantage to be used as a seed cum green manure crop that was followed by sunhemp (1880 kg ha-1). The gross returns and net returns of the green manure crops ranged from ` 15075-89376 ha-1 and ` 500–73889 ha-1, respectively with the highest value for cowpea (Gross returns - ` 89376 ha-1, Net returns - ` 73889 ha-1). The returns per rupee invested was highest for cowpea (5.77) and the least for pillipesara (1.03). ','Rabi, green manure crops, seed yield, stover yield, economics','From the above results on yield and economics of the green manure crops during rabi, it can be inferred that cowpea and sunhemp are the most suitable crops for rabi cultivation in Southern Telangana Zone. Among them, cowpea is most dependable with higher grain, and stalk yields than the other crops. Sunhemp can be used as an alternative to cowpea in those regions where cowpea cultivation is not feasible during rabi. The remaining crops owing to their poor plant performance in terms of growth, yield, and hence returns are least dependable during rabi.','INTRODUCTION\r\nGreen manures have become popular in the present day as a result of the growing issues in agriculture, such as climate change, extreme weather events, soil deterioration, and land contamination due to the overuse of agricultural chemicals. Growing green manure crops on farmland has shown to be a viable and cost-effective way to ensure the long-term productivity of cultivated areas by preparing the soil for succeeding harvests. The green manure crops are grown and incorporated into the soil in order to restore the land\'s productivity. Green manures are a gift from nature since they improve the physical, chemical, and biological qualities of the soil while also lowering the nitrogen fertilizer requirements for the following crop.\r\nUnreliability of green manure performance, nonavailability of seeds, and labor intensive operations are the major agronomic constraints (Ramanjaneyulu et al., 2021). Socio-economic factors like the cost of land, labor, and mineral N fertilizer are seen to determine the cost-effectiveness and thereby farmers\' adoption of sustainable green manure technology (Becker et al., 1995).\r\nAccording to Mishra and Nayak (2004), dhaincha, sunhemp, mung bean and guar grown during kharif season as green manure crops contributed 8-21 tons of green matter and 42-95 kg of N ha-1. Similarly, khesari, cowpea and berseem grown during rabi season contributed 12-29 tons of green matter and 67-68 kg N ha-1. The green manure crops are generally selected based on the location specific edaphoclimatic conditions, rainfall pattern, irrigation facility and turn-around time (Thimmanna et al., 2014). \r\nFurther, short duration legume green manure crops can be explored to get some additional income through seed production and then incorporating the green manure crop residues after taking the harvest. This may ensure green manure seed availability for the next season sowing besides enriching the soil through residue incorporation. Seed yield of 4-5 q ha-1 under rainfed conditions and 12.5-15.0 q ha-1 under limited irrigation conditions (1-3 irrigations depending on soil, climate and crop) is possible (Ramanjaneyulu et al., 2021). Most of the green manure crops are fitted into rice-based cropping systems during pre-kharif system. In those regions where most of the times the fields are kept fallow following the kharif crop, rabi legume green manures can be grown to improve the soil quality along with providing seed as well as income. With this concept, the current research was designed to investigate the performance of legume green manure crops during rabi for their suitability in the Southern Telangana Zone.\r\n\r\nMATERIAL AND METHODS\r\nThe research trial was conducted during rabi, 2020-21 at College farm, College of Agriculture, Rajendranagar, Hyderabad and was laid out in a randomized block design (RBD) and replicated thrice with seven green manure crops viz., green gram, black gram, horse gram, cowpea, sunhemp, dhaincha and pillipesara. The clay loam soil of the experimental site was alkaline in reaction with low organic matter and soil available nitrogen and high soil available phosphorous and potassium. All the crops were sown in the second fortnight of November. The mean maximum temperature varied from 26.4°C to 38.1°C and the mean minimum temperature varied from 11.1°C to 18.9°C during the period of crop growth. The relative humidity at morning (RHI) stretched from 75.3 to 95.7 per cent, where it was 22 to 60 per cent in the evening. The bright sunshine hours (BSH) fluctuated between 5.1 to 14.8 hrs. The wind velocity ranged from 2.5 to 4.7 kmph during the growing season. The pan evaporation ranged from 2.4 to 6.8 mm. Recommended dose of fertilizers and seed rate for respective green manure crops are mentioned in the Table 1. The objective of the research was to study the performance of the selected green manure crops in terms of their yield and economics. The data concerning to the yield attributes and yield was recorded at harvest. Plants that were randomly selected in the main plot at the first phase of recording the observations were used to record the yield attributes. The total cost incurred in the cultivation of green manure crops was expressed as cost of cultivation per hectare (` ha-1). The price of inputs prevailing at the time of their use was taken into consideration to work out the cost of cultivation. The yields of the green manure crops were converted into the equivalent yield of cowpea based on the price of the produce.\r\nRESULTS AND DISCUSSION\r\nYield performance of green manures during rabi\r\nYield attributes. Yield attributes are the desirable traits of a crop that are directly related to the yield. The yield parameters of the green manure crops studied in the present investigation are - pods per plant, seeds per pod, and test weight and are presented in Table 2. The number of pods per plant were the highest for sunhemp (50) and the lowest for pillipesara (11) while the number of seeds per pod were the highest for dhaincha (17) and least for horse gram (5). The difference in seed sizes of the green manure crops was reflected in their 100 seed weights. Cowpea with bold seeds weighed 7.34 g per 100 seeds while due to the small seed size, the 100 seed weights of sunhemp, dhaincha, and pillipesara ranged from 1.57 to 1.86 g. The yield attributes reported by the green manure crops during rabi were pursuant to their inherent morphological and physiological traits; and their relative adaptability to low-temperature conditions.\r\nYield. Yield is one of the most important and complex traits in crops. It is both regulated by genes known as quantitative trait loci and influenced by external environmental factors (Wang et al., 2012; Zeng et al., 2017; Zhang et al., 2017). In general, yield in legume crops is determined by indirect traits like plant height, no. of branches, leaf area as well as direct traits like pods per plant, seeds per pod, and 1000-grain-weight (Moldenhauer and Nathan, 2004; Sakamoto and Matsuoka, 2008; Huang et al., 2013). The yield obtained by the green manure crops in the present study was an amalgamation of both direct and indirect traits \r\nas mentioned above. The cowpea in accordance with the higher pod number, seed size, and seed weight displayed highest grain yield of 2128 kg ha-1. The sunhemp with a yield of 1579 kg ha-1 stood next best to cowpea. Conversely, the lowest yield among the green manure crops was reported by pillipesara (201 kg ha-1). The yield obtained by all the green manure crops in the study is far less than their potential yields under favorable conditions. However, the yields of green manure crops presented in this study reflected their adaptability and suitability during rabi. The yield of short-statured legumes viz., green gram (483 kg ha-1), black gram (389 kg ha-1), horse gram (305 kg ha-1), and pillipesara (201 kg ha-1) remained very low during rabi owing to their poor growth with lesser plant heights, leaf area, and dry matter production.\r\nStalk yield. Reportedly the stalk yield of the green manure crops varied significantly during rabi and is presented in Table 2. The stalk yield of the green manure crops ranged from 670 kg ha-1 to 7522 kg ha-1. The best among the green manure crops with the highest stalk yield was sunhemp (7522 kg ha-1). Cowpea stood next best to sunhemp with a stalk yield of 4990 kg ha-1. Apparently, taller stalks with higher biomass might have resulted in exceedingly higher stalk yields of these crops (sunhemp and cowpea) compared to the others The lowest stalk yield, on the other hand, was represented by pillipesara (670 kg ha-1).\r\nHarvest index. Globally, the harvest index of grain legumes is variable, while in cereals, it is generally considered to be relatively stable (McKenzie, 1987). Legumes may have more variable harvest indexes than cereals for a number of reasons. Wet and dry seasons (Hernandez, 1986), N application, sowing date, shade, irrigation (Verghis, 1996; Anwar et al., 1999), and lodging (McKenzie et al., 1985) may all be reasons for harvest index variability. The harvest index of the green manure crops in the study ranged from as low as 17.4 in sunhemp to 34.1 in green gram. Cowpea with a harvest index of 29.9 followed green gram. More biomass can give increased pod bearing structures, and result in more seed yield and a high harvest index (Ayaz, 2001). However, the results from the present study indicated poor translocation of photosynthates to achieve higher yields and therefore, lower harvest index values. This can be confirmed from the yields of green manure crops in this study which are exceptionally lower than their potential yields. The extended period of vegetative growth causing a period of ineffective flowering in the cool winter environment might have reduced the harvest index in sunhemp (Saxena, 1984).\r\nCowpea equivalent yield of green manure crops. The yield comparison of the green manure crops in the study was done by converting the yields of individual green manure crops to the cowpea equivalent yields (Table 2). The cowpea equivalent yield of different green manure crops indicated the superiority of cowpea in achieving higher yield (2128 kg ha-1) during rabi and its advantage to be used as a grain cum green manure crop. This was followed by sunhemp (1880 kg ha-1). The lowest cowpea equivalent yield on the other side was noted with pillipesara (359 kg ha-1).\r\nEconomics. Economic profitability is the prime force that drives any scientific technology from research field to the actual area of concern i.e., farmers’ field. Hence, the scientific practice that is ecologically promising and economically appealing would be sustainable in long-run (Sudhanshu Sudhakar, 2013).\r\nCost of Cultivation. The cost of cultivation of green manure crops did not vary much (Table 3). It ranged from ` 14237 and ` 15487 ha-1. The cost of cultivation incurred was maximum with cowpea (` 15487 ha-1). While sunhemp with cost of cultivation of ` 14925 ha-1 followed cowpea. The difference in cost of cultivation of green manure crops was majorly due to the cost incurred on seed rate, which varied with the seed size of the crops. The different fertilization schedules for these crops also caused changes in the cost of cultivation of the green manure crops.\r\nGross returns. The differences in the grain and stalk yields of the green manure crops had brought about significant variation in the gross returns. The gross returns obtained by the cultivation of green manure crops were presented in Table 3. The gross returns of the green manure crops ranged from ` 15075 ha-1 to ` 89376 ha-1. The highest returns of `89376 ha-1 were reported by cowpea, while the lowest (` 15075 ha-1) was given by pillipesara. The sunhemp with gross returns of `78950 ha-1 stood next best to cowpea. Though the unit price of cowpea is the least (`42 kg-1) among the green manure crops, the overall better growth of the crop has resulted in higher grain yield which in turn fetched maximum returns. A comparably higher yield of sunhemp due to equivalent performance as that of cowpea has realized higher gross returns next to cowpea. However, the difference between cowpea and sunhemp remained significant. On the other side, in spite of the higher unit cost of the crops - black gram, horse gram, green gram, and pillipesara ranging from ` 60 to 75 ha-1, the gross returns of these crops were low and have ranged from ` 15075 ha-1 to `34776 ha-1 due to their lowest yields as observed in Table 2 of this article.\r\nNet returns. Owing to significant differences in the gross returns, the net returns from the green manure crops also varied significantly. The data on the net returns of green manure crops were presented in the Table 3. \r\nThe net returns of the green manure crops ranged from ` 500 ha-1 to ` 73889 ha-1. Cowpea fetched the highest net return (`73889 ha-1), while pillipesara fetched the lowest (` 500 ha-1). Maximum gross returns even at a higher cost of cultivation have resulted in higher net returns in cowpea (` 73889 ha-1) and sun hemp (` 64025 ha-1) compared to the other crops. However, the cowpea and sunhemp remained significantly different with cowpea getting higher net returns than sunhemp. \r\nReturns per rupee investment. The returns per rupee investment also were significantly different among the green manure crops during rabi. The data on returns per rupee investment were given in Table 3.\r\nThe returns obtained per rupee invested due to green manure crops ranged from `1.03 to 5.77. A maximum return of ` 5.77 per rupee invested was obtained from cowpea, while the minimum of ` 1.03 per rupee invested was obtained from pillipesara. The sunhemp with ` 5.30 benefit per rupee invested proved to be the next best to cowpea. Exceedingly higher growth of cowpea and sunhemp during rabi than the other green manure crops might have incurred more profit per rupee invested. However, the difference between cowpea and sunhemp was significant with cowpea giving higher benefit per rupee invested than the sunhemp.\r\n','Sanjana M., G. S. Madhu Bindu, B. Padmaja, M. Uma Devi and S. Triveni (2022). Profitable Green Manure Crops for Rabi Fallows of Southern Telangana Zone. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 14(2): 801-805.'),(4957,'125','Genetic Diversity and Morphological characterization in Tomato (Solanum lycopersicum)','M.P. Athulya* and P. Anitha','138 Genetic Diversity and Morphological characterization in Tomato Solanum lycopersicum M. P. Athulya.pdf','',1,'Tomato is a vegetable of great commercial importance in India. Collection and maintenance of the diverse lines in tomato is important. The genetic and morphological diversity studies aid in this process. The present investigation was undertaken to characterize tomato germplasm using conventional morphological descriptors and also to study the variability among them. The descriptors clearly aided in distinguishing and identifying cultivars and germplasm characterization. In the study with 18 accessions, all accessions displayed one or more definite characters (presence of green shoulders and types of fruit cracking) that can be promising to identify the same, but it was not possible to clearly identify all cultivars using a single morphological trait. Variability studies revealed highest estimates of heritability along with high genetic advance were observed for average fruit weight, fruit width, fruit length, TSS and number of locules. The study also revealed other important traits like growth habit, fruit shape, fruit size, fruit weight, number of locules and fruit yield which is useful in selecting genotypes for breeding programme.','Descriptor, Characterization, Germplasm, Variability','Every genotype exhibited one or more unique characters (presence of green shoulders and types of fruit cracking) which could be used to pinpoint them. However, it was not possible to clearly identify all cultivars using a single morphological trait. This study clearly distinguished accessions with green shoulders and cracking fruits and thus these could be eliminated from being utilized in the crop improvement programme. The study helped to identify the genotypes with determinate growth habit, which could be exploited in the breeding developing processing tomatoes where mechanical harvesting could be employed. Highest genetic advance as percent of mean was observed for fruit weight followed by fruit width recorded high heritability also. The knowledge of heritability coupled with expected genetic advance suggested that these could be improved through direct selection.','INTRODUCTION \r\nTomato (Solanum esculentum L.) bags the second position in the world among the most consumed vegetable after potato with a pro¬duction of 20573 thousand tonnes from 812 thousand ha area (NHB, 2020). Tomato is number one processing vegetable and is also popular due to its high vitamin A, vitamin C, potassium, phosphorous, magnesium and calcium contents. It is also rich in lycopene and beta-carotene, an antioxidant which promotes good health. Tomato finds various uses like for fresh market, processing, and also is one among the most preferred crop for protected cultivation, the crop being highly self-pollinated due to chasmogamy. Determinate growth habit is preferred for the processing tomatoes, whereas protected cultivation requires indeterminate varieties. Hence the objective of crop improvement in tomato is ever changing such as high yield, earliness and pest and disease resistance, improved fruit quality traits etc.\r\nCharacterization and diversity assessment are two pillars important for utilizing distinctive cultivars in breeding programs and in conserving the genetic resources (Sridhar et al., 2022). A thorough study and evaluation of available germplasm is of great significance for both genetic and agronomic improvement of the crop (Reddy et al., 2013). The genetic variability and diversity existing can be evaluated and recorded using morphological, biochemical and molecular markers, morphological being the most budget friendly and accessible one. \r\nThe present study focused on the aim of characterizing and assessing the variability of tomato accessions from different breeding environments. \r\nMATERIALS AND METHODS\r\nThe study was conducted at Department of Vegetable Science, College of Agriculture, Thrissur, during 2020-2021. The experimental material comprised of exotic lines collected from World Vegetable Center, exotic lines collected from NBPGR, New Delhi, varieties and improved lines of Kerala Agricultural University. The experiment was laid out in randomized block design (RBD) with two replications with 20 plants per plot. All crop management practices were undertaken as per the Package of Practices Recommendations–Crops, Kerala Agricultural University, (2016). The data were recorded from five plants per replication on qualitative and quantita¬tive characters following the International Plant Genetic Resources Institute (IPGRI) descriptors for tomato (Table 1). Data on plant height, days to flowering, days to harvest, fruit length, fruit width, fruit weight, number of locules per fruit and TSS. Coefficients of variation were calculated as per Comstock and Robinson (1952). Heritability in broad sense and expected genetic advance were worked out as per Al¬lard (1961) and Johnson et al. (1955), respectively.\r\nRESULTS AND DISCUSSION\r\nCharacterization based on 9 quantitative and 18 qualitative characters revealed significant variation among the genotypes (Table 2). 18 genotypes recorded determinate growth habit while, 7 were semi determinate. Similar difference in growth habit was reported by Agarwal et al. (2014). Leaf types varied from potato leaf, standard and peruvianum types. Potato leaves and standard leaves were observed in seven accessions each while 4 accessions was grouped under peruvianum type (Fig. 1). Presence of these three types of leaves were highlighted by Bhattarai et al. (2018). Foliage density varied among accessions. 5 accessions recorded dense foliage, 2 recorded sparse foliage and the remaining accessions had intermediate foliage (Fig. 7). All the accessions studied had yellow coloured perfect flowers with an open corolla blossom type. These results are in line with Salim et al. (2018).\r\nFruit descriptors were more promising to be utilized in differentiating cultivars (Arvindkumar et al., 2003) Fruit shape and size play an important role in consumer acceptability of tomato. A good shaped fruit also ensures better packaging of the fruits and optimizes the space requirement. Besides, Fruit shape could be easily noticed and utilized for identifying tomato cultivars. In the present study, the shape of fruits ranged from round to highly rounded, flat to slightly flattened. Two accessions produced oblate or flattened fruits, whereas, slightly flattened fruits and round fruits were observed in 7 accessions. Three genotypes produced round fruits while high round fruit were observed in six accessions. The results agreed with the findings of Bhattarai et al. (2018), who gave reports of various fruit shapes like flattened, slightly flattened, cylindrical, rounded, high-rounded, and heart-shaped. The accessions also showed variation in the exterior colour of the immature fruits. Nine genotypes were observed with greenish-white fruits at an immature stage, while seven produced light green and one produced green (Fig. 2). This variation in colour may be due to genotypic variation among the accessions and various environmental factors (Salim et al., 2018). Similar color variation in fruits at immature stage were reported by Bhattarai et al. (2018) where he reported the existence of greenish-white, green, light green, dark green, very dark green and dark color fruits.\r\nMature fruit color was red for the fifteen accessions studied, while three gave orange coloured fruits. The results are in accordance with Parisi et al. (2016) who found three colour variations namely orange pink and red in tomato. Two among the studied accessions produced fruits with prominent green shoulders (Fig. 3). This is in line with the reports of Parisi et al. (2016); Sacco et al. (2015) where they emphasized the presence or absence of green shoulder in tomato. Fruit shoulder shape varied from flat, slightly depressed and moderately depressed. Four accessions produced fruits with flat shoulder, whereas, five accessions gave fruits of moderately depressed and nine showed slightly depressed fruit shoulder. These results agreed with the findings of Figas et al. (2014). Similar results were observed by Bhattarai et al. (2018) such as flat, slightly flat, notched, slightly-depressed, moderately-depressed, depressed and strongly-depressed shoulder shape. Fruit cross-sectional shape was categorized into rounded and irregular shape in the study. All accessions produced fruits with round cross section whereas, LE19 was unique in producing angular shaped fruits. All the four types of pistil scars namely dot, stellate, linear and irregular were observed (Fig. 4). This is in line with the findings of Terzopoulos and Bebeli (2010) who reported different cross sectional shapes and the presence of four types of pistil scar in tomato. Flat blossom end was observed in all the eighteen genotypes. Similar observation of predominant flat blossom end fruits was made by Salim et al. (2018). This character is a more stable one and is less effected by various biotic and abiotic stresses and is most reliable character for cultivar differentiation in tomato (Vishwanath et al., 2014). Among the studied, two accessions namely LE 32 and LE 22 exhibited fruit cracking – concentric and radial cracking respectively (Fig. 5, 6). These findings are in consonance with results of Figas et al. (2014) who reported radial and concentric cracking in tomato.\r\nThe analysis of variance revealed significant differences among the genotypes with respect to all the characters. The extent of variability in range, mean, genotypic co-efficient of variance (GCV), phenotypic co-efficient of variance (PCV), heritability, expected genetic advance and the expected genetic advance as per cent of mean are presented in Table 3. Plant height, fruit width and fruit weight showed high values for PCV, which indicated the influence of environment on these when compared to other characters. Majority of the characters showed moderate PCV and GCV whereas, fruit weight and yield per plant experienced a high GCV and PCV. This agreed with Patel et al. (2013) where they obtained moderate values for plant height, days to flowering, days to harvest and locules per fruit. High GCV and PCV for fruit weight, fruit yield per plant and moderate to high GCV and PCV was observed in fruit length and fruit width was reported in a study by Singh et al. (2019). \r\nThe relative magnitude of difference between PCV and GCV was low for all characters except plant height indicating the low influence of environmental factors on these characters. These findings suggested that selection on phenotypic basis is effective along with equal probability of genotypic values. GCV alone, cannot be used to conclude the extent of heritable variation and hence, the knowledge of heritability too is needed for selection. The genetic advance for quantitative characters helps in achieving selection. Highest heritability (broad sense) were found for average fruit weight (98.7%), fruit yield per plant followed by fruit width (82.9%), number of locules (81.5 %), fruit length (80.1 %) and TSS (79.2 %), as observed by Singh et al. (2019); Prakash et al. (2019), whereas, plant height and days to harvest exercised moderate heritability. Days to flowering recorded the lowest value for heritability at broad sense, which is in line with the results of Kerketta and Bahadur, (2019). Genetic advance as per cent of mean was highest for all characters except days to flowering and days to harvest. Highest estimates of heritability along with high genetic advance were observed for average fruit weight, fruit width, fruit length, TSS and number of locules. The above findings agreed with Tasisa et al. (2011).','M.P. Athulya and P. Anitha (2022). Genetic Diversity and Morphological characterization in Tomato (Solanum lycopersicum). Biological Forum – An International Journal, 14(2): 806-811.'),(4958,'125','Milk Fever in a Crossbred Cow and its Medical Management','Arul Sabareeswaran T. A., Kavin T. and Alimudeen S.*','139 Milk Fever in a Crossbred Cow and its Medical Management ALIMUDEEN S.pdf','',1,'India is an agricultural country and livestock plays a vital role in one of the fastest-growing segments in the agriculture and economic sector of the country. About 5.1 percent GVA (Gross Value Added) and 17.1 percent of Agricultural and allied GVA of India is contributed by livestock. India stands first in the overall milk production in the world with a total production of 198.04 million tonnes during 2019-2020. The annual growth rate of 5.68 % was observed during the last financial year. But the world average growth of this sector is 2.4%. The Indian dairy sector is changing from traditional to commercial dairy farming. Hence, high-yielding dairy animals are necessary to sustain the requirement of dairy sector. High yielders are more prone for various metabolic diseases such as ketosis, milk fever. Milk fever is one of the major threats to the fastest-growing Indian dairy sector. \r\nAn Adult Crossbred Jersey cow aged about three years was diagnosed with Milk fever which was maintained at SR dairy farms in Thuraiyur, Tiruchirappalli district of Tamilnadu. The animal had a history of calved twenty hours before and was unable to stand observed by the farm attenders. Upon clinical examination, the animal was at lateral recumbency, per rectal temperature was about 101.2 F, with cold extremities and bloated appearance. On physical examination all other vital parameters were normal. Pupillary light reflex was also absent. The animal was diagnosed withmilk fever and treatment was done by slow infusion of calcium borogluconate @ 1 mg per 45kg bodyweight intravenouslyto restore the animal \r\nThe animal recovered after the treatment with a good prognosis and supplements were given for seven days and the animal had an uneventful recovery. \r\n','Calcium, Crossbreed cow, Milk fever, Deficiency, Hypocalcemia, Parturient paresis, Medical management, High yield. ','Milk fever may be prevented by providing balanced ration and proper calcium supplements to the animal especially before and after parturition period. It will minimize the chance of economic loss faced by farmers due to Parturient paresis. Improper feeding and abundant feeding of calcium during the last trimester of pregnancy may lead to Parturient paresis. Awareness must be created about scientific feeding practices among the producers and farmers. Hence, post-parturient hypocalcemia is a metabolic disorder it can be controlled to great extent by proper managemental activities. ','INTRODUCTION\r\nMilk fever or Parturient paresis or Hypocalcemiais a metabolic disease most commonly occurring in adult females before or after parturition, commonly occur within 48 hours of parurition. There is a rapid decline in plasma calcium level from eucalcemic level for the formation of colostrum and also low calcium absorption from the intestines due to reduced feed intake and improper calcium-phosphorus ration in diet with vitamin D deficiency (Deniz, 2007). High-yielding Cow and Buffalos are commonly affected. Milk fever may also result in the downer cow syndrome, grass tetany, ketosis, udder edema, abomasal displacement, metritis, and poor fertility (Peter et al., 2007).Its clinical symptoms include sever muscle weakness, Sternal or Lateral recumbency with predominant Sub-normal temperature. Milk fever causes serious Economical loss to farmers, as it might lead to dystocia and even uterine prolapse (Rajadurai et al., 2021).With this background, the present case study deals with the Successful medical management of Milk fever in a Crossbred Jersey cow.\r\nCASE HISTORY AND CLINICAL FINDINGS \r\nAn Adult Crossbred jersey cow of age about three years was diagnosed with Milk fever which was maintained at SR dairy farms in Thuraiyur, Tiruchirappalli district of Tamilnadu. The animal had a history of calved twenty hours before and was unable to stand observed by the farm attenders. Upon clinical examination, the animal was at Lateral Recumbency, per rectal temperature was about 101.2 F, with cold extremities and Bloated appearance. On physical examination all other vital parameters were normal. Pupillary light reflex was also absent. Based on the animal\'s history and clinical symptoms, it was diagnosed as Milk fever and the necessary treatments were started immediately without further delay. \r\nTREATMENT \r\nThe cow was treated with calcium borogluconate @ 1 mg per 45kg bodyweight intravenously for hypocalcemic condition. The signs of Milk Fever disappeared within thirty minutes after the administration of calcium borogluconate hence the prognosis was good. To prevent the reoccurrence of hypocalcemic condition the attenders were advised to give oral calcium supplements @ 100mL/ day for seven days. \r\nDISCUSSION\r\nMilk fever is one of the commonest disease conditions occurring in cattle and buffalos during parturition. The probability is high in adult animals ageing 5-10 years. Based on the time of occurrence, Parturient paresis can classified into prepartum, postpartum and subclinical hypocalcemia. It’s mainly due tothe low serum calcium levelas a result of calcium loss in colostrum formation, reduced intestinal absorption, insufficient mobilization of calcium from the storage pool during the parturition. 6 percent of dairy cattle in the US are affected by hypocalcemia which is characterized by extremely low blood calcium concentration (Oetzel and Goff 1998). Metabolic diseases are common in high-yielding dairy cows during the periparturient period (Hibbs, 1950; Chiwome et al., 2017). Calcium homeostasis is very difficult to maintain in these animals during this period because of physiological and pathological factors. This can lead to the development of milk fever, which predisposes the animal to a variety of other disorders (Fikadu et al., 2016).\r\nFarmers must be educated about proper ration formulations and the importance of mineral supplements to their dairy cows hence poor feeding and dietary deficiency are the primary predisposing factor for milk fever in cows (Rajadurai et al., 2021). As per Goff et al. (1989), intravenous administration of parathyroid hormone prevents parturient paretic hypocalcemia in dairy cows. Six and three days before calving the animal may be administered with 25-hydroxycholecalciferol and its synthetic analog 1α-hydroxycholecalciferolto prevent the milk fever (Murray et al., 2008). In the present case, the cow was affected with a stage two milk fever, which was identified by sternal recumbency and curving of the neck to the side. Stage one and two milk fever can be treated effectively by intravenous administration of calcium. However, stage 3 milk fever is difficult to treat especially when muscle paralysis has been ensured (Hutjens and Aalseth 2005).\r\n','Arul Sabareeswaran T. A., Kavin T. and Alimudeen S. (2022). Milk Fever in a Crossbred Cow and its Medical Management. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 14(2): 812-814.'),(4959,'125','Eco-friendly Management of Guava Fruit Fly, Bactrocera spp.','Umesh, Rajesh Kumar*, S.S. Yadav and Dalip Kumar','140 Eco-friendly Management of Guava Fruit Fly, Bactrocera spp. Rajesh Kumar.pdf','',1,'Studies were carried out on rainy season guava crop at farmer’s field in village Sunderpur, District Rohtak, Haryana to test various management strategies i.e. methyl eugenol traps @ 40 traps ha-1 alone and in combination with sprays of NSKE 5%, mulching with black polythene sheet, raking under tree canopy twice, collection and destruction of dropped fruits on alternate days against guava fruit fly, Bactrocera spp. The highest overall reduction in fruit infestation over untreated control ranged from 18.08 to 39.97 and 12.43 to 41.45 per cent on number and weight basis, respectively in the management strategy having methyl eugenol traps and 3 sprays of neem seed kernel extract 5%. There was an increase of 175.33% in marketable yield of guava over control where as the highest total marketable yield and net profit were recorded as 95.76 q ha-1 and Rs.65674 ha-1, respectively. Among all the management strategies, two sprays of neem seed kernel extract alone proved to be the least effective in managing guava fruit fly.','Guava, Fruit fly, Bactrocera spp., Methyl eugenol, traps, NSKE','It can be concluded from the present study that among all the management strategies, S2 (methyl eugenol traps + three sprays of NSKE 5%) proved most effective against guava fruit fly, Bactrocera spp. as it was having lowest fruit infestation (38.33 and 35.82 per cent both on number and weight basis, respectively), highest marketable yield (95.76 q/ha) and maximum net profit (Rs. 65674/ha). ','INTRODUCTION\r\nGuava is an important commercial fruit crop. It is successfully grown under both tropical and subtropical climates. It is commonly called a poor man’s apple in the tropics and known for its delicious, pleasant aroma and outstanding nutritional values throughout the world. It is highly rich in minerals like phosphorus and calcium. In India, it occupies an area of 276 thousand ha with a production of 4253 thousand Mt (Anonymous, 2020).\r\nDifferent biotic and abiotic factors are responsible for low yields of guava. Out of biotic ones, the insect-pests have been reported to attack guava at different stages particularly during rainy season crop. It is infested by around 80 species of insect pests like fruit flies, bark eating caterpillar, capsule borer, mealy bug, hairy caterpillar and many sucking pests, out of which fruit fly is the major one causing a heavy loss in the yield (Butani, 1979; Tandon and Verghese, 1987; Verghese and Sudhadevi, 1998; Singh et al., 2003; Rajitha and Viraktamath, 2005; Atwal and Dhaliwal, 2009). Fruit flies belong to the family Tephritidae which is one of the largest, most diversified families of order Diptera. \r\nIn India, 392 species of fruit flies have been recorded (Kapoor, 1993). From economic point of view, fruit flies, Bactrocera dorsalis (Hendel) and Bactrocera zonata (Saunders) are highly destructive pests of peach, pear, guava and kinnow mandarin causing up to 80, 70, 100 and 60 to 80 per cent fruit infestation, respectively depending on population, locality, variety and season (Kumar et al., 2011; Sharma et al., 2011; Bajaj and Singh 2020). \r\nIn general, fruit flies are very difficult to manage due to the fact that they are polyphagous, multivoltine, adults have high mobility and fecundity, and all the developmental stages are unexposed (Vargas et al., 2010, Kumar and Agarwal, 1998). Farmers use a variety of chemical insecticides for the management of fruit fly in guava. Most of the insecticidal treatments are ineffective to control fruit fly since eggs and maggots remain protected in the host tissues and only adults are exposed. Moreover, the use of chemical insecticides causes residue problems. So, there is strong need for integrated pest management practices (Vargas et al., 2008; Verghese et al., 2004).\r\nAs an alternate strategy, methyl eugenol traps can be used for male annihilation technique (MAT) for the management of Bactrocera spp. (White and Elson Harris, 1992; Bhowmik et al., 2015; Singh et al., 2015). Methyl eugenol traps have been standardized by different institutes, but this technique is still less exploited in India. Fruit flies can be controlled over local area upto some extent by fruit bagging, field sanitation, protein bait, annihilation technique, growing fly resistant genotypes, augmentation of biological control, incorporation of neem seed kernel extract and insecticides (Akhtaruzzaman et al., 1999; Singh et al., 2003; Dhillon et al., 2005). Therefore, in the present studies, methyl eugenol traps in combination with other eco-friendly approaches were evaluated for the management of fruit fly in guava.\r\nMATERIALS AND METHODS\r\nThe studies were carried out at farmer’s field in village Sunderpur, District Rohtak, Haryana during rainy season of 2016-17. The methyl eugenol traps were purchased from PAU, Ludhiana and fixed with the 7 year old guava trees var. Hisar Safeda at equidistance from each other @40 traps ha-1 in the last week of May. The following eco-friendly management strategies were evaluated against Bactrocera spp. \r\nEco-friendly management strategies\r\nS1: PAU Methyl eugenol trap @40 traps ha-1\r\nS2: S1+3 sprays of Neem Seed Kernel Extract (NSKE) 5% (1st spray in last week of June, subsequent sprays at 15 days interval)\r\nS3: S1+2 sprays of NSKE 5% (1st spray in last week of June and 2nd at 15 days interval)\r\nS4: S1+1 spray of NSKE 5% in last week of June\r\nS5: S1+Mulching (Black polythene sheet) under tree canopy\r\nS6: S1+Raking under tree canopy twice (1st at 1st fortnight of June and 2nd at 2nd fortnight of June)\r\nS7: S1 + Collection and destruction of dropped fruits on alternate days\r\nS8: 3 sprays of NSKE 5% (1st spray in last week of June, subsequent sprays at 15 days interval).\r\nS9: 2 sprays of NSKE 5% (1st spray in last week of June and 2nd at 15 days interval) \r\nS10: Untreated control\r\nS8, S9 and S10 were laid out at an isolation distance of 300 m from other strategies (S1 to S7) so as to avoid the effect of methyl eugenol trap. The experiment was laid out in Randomised Block Design in 3 replications (1 tree replication-1).The fallen fruits (infested by fruit flies) were collected and destroyed on alternate days by burying them into soil at faraway place so as to prevent multiplication of fruit fly population. The fruit fly catches were collected and removed from the traps every week.\r\nRecording of observations:\r\na) Fruit infestation. For this, a sample of 10 fruits at random were collected at weekly interval from each replication during 31st to 36th Standard Meteorological Week. The infested (based on oviposition puncture) and healthy fruits were counted and weighed separately. The fruit infestation on number and weight basis were calculated by using formula given by Abott (1925). \r\n\r\n% of fruit damage (number basis) = (Number of damaged fruits)/█(Total number of fruits@(damaged+healthy) )×100\r\n% of fruit damage (weight basis) = (Weight of damaged fruits)/█(Total weight of fruits@(damaged+healthy) ) ×100\r\n \r\nb) Marketable yield. Reduction in yield due to fruit fly damage was worked out by using data on per cent fruit damage on weight basis recorded at weekly interval during crop season \r\nMarketable yield = Total yield – Reduction in yield\r\nc) Benefit cost ratio\r\nBenefit cost ratio of each management strategy was worked out by using the following formula\r\n \r\nBenefit cost ratio= (Value of increased yield (Rs))/(Total cost incurred on management strategy(Rs))\r\n \r\nStatistical analysis of data. The obtained data were statistically analyzed using angular root transformation wherever needed.\r\nRESULTS AND DISCUSSION\r\nFruit infestation due to guava fruit fly, Bactrocera spp. On the basis of effects of different management strategies against guava fruit fly Bactrocera spp. on guava crop, it is evident that strategy S2 (methyl eugenol traps + 3 sprays of NSKE 5%) was most effective among all the strategies (Table 1). There was minimum fruit infestation in S2 i.e. 38.33 and 35.82 per cent both on number and weight basis, respectively and that was at par with strategy S3 (methyl eugenol traps + two spray of NSKE 5%) i.e. 47.77 and 44.87 per cent both on number and weight basis, respectively. In rest of the management strategies, S1, S4, S5, S6, S7 and S8, the fruit infestation varied from 54.44 to 57.78 per cent and 49.27 to 54.81 per cent on number and weight basis, respectively. The management strategy S9 was found to be the least effective as there was high infestation i.e. 64.44 and 65.04 per cent on number and weight basis, respectively which was at par with untreated control (75.04 % and 72.32% on number and weight basis, respectively).\r\nUnder different management strategies the highest reduction in fruit fly infestation over untreated control in guava was recorded in S2 (methyl eugenol + three sprays of NSKE 5%) i.e. 39.97 and 41.45 per cent both on number and weight basis, respectively followed by S3 (methyl eugenol +two spray of NSKE 5%). The other management strategies S1, S4, S5, S6 and S7 were having almost similar reduction in percentage infestation. The management strategy S9 (two sprays of NSKE 5%) was found to be the least effective as it was having only 18.08 and 12.43 per cent reduction in infestation both on number and weight basis respectively.\r\n Marketable yield of guava under different management strategies. The data presented in Table 2 indicated that the highest marketable yield of guava (95.76 q ha-1) was recorded in S2 during rainy season as against 34.78 q ha-1in untreated control. In the remaining management strategies, the marketable yield ranged from 44.92 to 78.36 q ha-1 being lowest in S9. In S2, there was an increase of 175.33 per cent in marketable yield of guava over untreated control followed by S3 (125.3%) whereas minimum increase in marketable yield over control was obtained in S9 (29.15%). There was not much difference in total marketable yield in remaining management strategies i.e. S1, S4, S5, S6, S7 and S8. On the basis of increase in marketable yield of guava over untreated control, the efficacy of various management strategies in descending order was S2, S3, S7, S4, S5, S6, S1, S8 and S9.\r\n \r\nEconomics of different management strategies. The data presented in Table 3 indicated the economics of different management strategies against Bactrocera spp. during rainy season. The highest net profit (Rs. 65674 ha-1) was obtained in S2 (methyl eugenol traps + 3 sprays of NSKE 5%) followed by S3 (methyl eugenol + two sprays of NSKE 5%) i.e. Rs. 44173 ha-1. The total cost incurred on management strategy was found to be almost similar in S2 and S5 (methyl eugenol traps + mulching under tree canopy) but S5 proved to be the least effective strategy showing minimum net profit (Rs. 21611 ha-1). On the basis of net profit, different management strategies were placed in descending order as S2, S3, S7, S4, S1, S6, S8, S5, S9. The highest BCR (3.78) was found in S1 obviously because of less total plant protection cost (Rs.12000 ha-1) incurred on management of fruit fly.The results of present studies on evaluation of methyl eugenol trap based eco-friendly management strategies against Bactrocera spp. in rainy season guava crop indicated that all the strategies were found better than untreated control. The strategy S2 (methyl eugenol traps+3 spray of NSKE 5%) was found best among all the strategies in all respect. The present findings are strongly in agreement with the studies conducted by Bhowmik et al. (2015); Shivendra and Singh (1998).','Umesh, Rajesh Kumar, S.S. Yadav and Dalip Kumar (2022). Eco-friendly Management of Guava Fruit Fly, Bactrocera spp. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 14(2): 815-819.'),(4960,'125','Influence of Conservation Tillage on Growth, Productivity, and Production Economics of Soybean under the Semi-arid Climate of the Vidarbha Region','Tapanwita Senapati, M.R. Deshmukh, Bidusi Tripathy* and Sandeep Rout','141 Influence of Conservation Tillage on Growth, Productivity, and Production Economics of Soybean under the Semi-arid Climate of the Vidarbha Region Sandeep Rout.pdf','',1,'A field experiment was conducted at Research Farm, Department of Agronomy, Dr. Panjabrao Deshmukh Krishi Vidyapeeth, Akola, during the Kharif season of 2018-19, to determine the performance of soybean under conservation tillage. Conservation tillage provides an excellent opportunity to reduce the degradation of soil reserve and increase soil productivity. Five tillage treatments were replicated three times in the main plot under a split-plot design with integrated nutrient management in the subplot. The tillage treatments were constituted of Conservation tillage (1 harrowing by tractor-mounted blade harrow before sowing), Minimum Tillage ( 1tyne harrow +1 blade harrow), Subsoil Tillage (1 Subsoiler + 1 tyne harrow + 1 rotavator), Conventional Tillage (1 ploughing + 2 tyne harrowing + 1 blade harrow), Roto Tillage (1 tyne harrow + 1 rotavator ). Results revealed that among different tillage practices, significant improvement in plant growth parameters and soybean seed yield was recorded with the treatment of subsoil tillage(ST) (1 Subsoiler + 1 tyne harrow + 1 rotavator). ST posed a great impact than other treatments in respect of grain yield (2219 Kg ha-1), and straw yield (2265 Kg ha-1) Tillage treatment ST attended the greatest biological yield (4684 Kg ha-1) with the greatest index for harvest (47.37%) ensures higher economic productivity from the tillage system imposed. Therefore conservation tillage could be suggested in lower water availability to improve Soybean production as it was associated with higher economic return for the farmers of the Vidarbha region, Maharashtra.','Conservation agriculture, Conventional tillage, Economic productivity, Minimum tillage.','It is concluded that from different tillage practices, significant improvement in plant growth parameters and soybean seed yield was recorded with the treatment of subsoil tillage (1 Subsoiler + 1 tyne harrow + 1 rotavator). However, this treatment was statistically similar to that of conventional tillage treatment. Significantly highest gross monetary returns (77048 Rs ha-1) and net monetary returns (40543 Rs. ha-1) were recorded with treatment subsoil tillage (1 Subsoiler + 1 tyne harrow + 1 rotavator). Similarly, the highest benefit-cost ratio of 2.11 was also recorded in subsoiling treatment. Conservation tillage may be recommended for semi-arid climate of the Vidharbha region for higher Soybean productivity.','INTRODUCTION\r\nSoybean (Glycine max L. Merril) is the most important seed legume on the planet, accounting for 25% of all edible oil and two-thirds of all protein concentrate for livestock feed. Soybean meal is an essential component of formulated poultry and fish meals. It is a good source of protein and oil, and it also has a lot of amino acids like lysine, leucine, lecithin, and a lot of phosphorous. Soybeans are high in vitamins and minerals and contain around 40-45 percent protein and 18-22 percent oil. Soybean is known as the \"golden bean\" because of its many applications. Soybean is the world\'s top crop for producing vegetable oil (Khare et al., 2016). Soybean yields are falling, raising concerns about the sustainability of soybean-based farming systems. Tillage procedures have a distinctive role in the appropriate recycling of organic waste, depending on the situation. Because tillage affects infiltration, runoff, evaporation, and soil water storage, it can affect soil moisture status. With traditional tillage, weeds that compete with crops for moisture and other growth factors are manually eliminated. On the other side, poor residue cover, higher runoff, and lower water penetration may all contribute to drought stress. Several workers have said that high soybean yields may be attained by lowering tillage costs by using minimal tillage, which entails simply tilling the soil once with a light harrow for ease of seeding. In the Vidharbha area of Maharashtra, India, however, little information on the benefits of conservation tillage has been recorded. This article aims to investigate the impact of conservation tillage methods on Soybean growth, productivity, and production economics in the Vidharbha area of Maharashtra\'s semi-arid climate. The current experiment was conducted in light of these considerations.\r\nMATERIAL AND METHODS\r\nDuring the Kharif season of 2018-19, a field experiment was conducted at the All India Co-ordinated Research Project on Weed Management, Department of Agronomy, Dr. Panjabrao Deshmukh Krishi Vidyapeeth Akola, which is located at 22°42\' North, 77°02\' East, and 281.12 meters above mean sea level. The experimental site\'s soil was clayey in texture, low in organic carbon (0.57 percent), slightly alkaline in nature (pH 7.71), normal in electrical conductivity (0.31 dS/m), and analyzed in low available N (180.37 Kg/ha), medium available P (15.22 Kg/ha), and high available K (369.7 Kg/ha) contents. The climate of is semi-arid, with three different seasons from March to May: hot and dry summer, warm and wet monsoon from June to October, and moderate cold winter from November to February. The south-west monsoon brought the most of the rain from June to October, with an average annual normal precipitation of 740 mm falling over 42.8 wet days (Average of 40 years from 1971 to 2000). Five tillage treatments were replicated three times in the main plot in a split-plot design with integrated nutrient management. Conservation tillage (1 harrowing with a tractor-mounted blade harrow before sowing), Minimum Tillage (1 tyne harrow +1 blade harrow), Subsoil Tillage (1 Subsoiler + 1 tyne harrow + 1 rotavator), Conventional Tillage (1 ploughing + 2 tyne harrowing + 1 blade harrow), Roto Tillage (1 tyne harrow + 1 100 percent RDF, 75 percent RDF Plus FYM (2 t/ha), and 50 percent RDF + FYM (4 t/ha) were used in the integrated nutrition management strategies. The net plot was 6.3m × 9.2m in size. In the Kharif season, soybean (var. JS-335) was sown on July 3rd, 2018. Land preparation for this study was done according to the stated treatments of various tillage methods. T1(CnT) treatment included 1 harrowing with a tractor-mounted blade harrow before sowing, with an 8-10 cm depth of operation. For T2 (MT), a Tyne cultivator was used once to prepare the soil, followed by a harrowing with a tractor-mounted blade harrow once to prepare the seedbed at a depth of 15 cm. The maximum depth of operation, 55 to 60 cm, was maintained under T3 (ST) treatment by utilizing a subsoiler first, then a tyne harrow, and finally a rotavator. One ploughing was done in the T4 (CvT) treatment, followed by two tyne harrowings and one ploughing with a tractor-mounted blade harrow. The procedure took place at a depth of 23-25 cm. In the T5 (RT) treatment, a tyne cultivator was first used, followed by a tractor-mounted rotavator, to prepare the seedbed to a 12-15 cm depth. FYM was treated at 2 t ha-1 and 4 t ha-1 according to different integrated nutrient management strategies just 2 days before planting. Intercultural operations were used to keep the crops weed-free and the soil loose and porous. On the 25th day following seeding, hand weeding was completed. The intercultural operation was carried out by a bullock pulled double pass hoe on the 29th day after sowing. At the time of harvesting, observations on growth attributes such as plant population, plant height, branches/plant, leaf area index, and yield attributes such as number of pods/plant, weight of pods/plant, number of seeds/pod, harvest index, and seed test weight were made. The yields of seed and straw were reported. Economic parameters were then determined. The data collected throughout numerous observations were statistically analyzed. For the significance test, the influence of tillage techniques was investigated using a randomized block design. The given data was interpreted for the outcomes after the analysis (Panse and Sukhatme, 1967).\r\nRESULTS AND DISCUSSION\r\nGrowth attributes. The number of plants was uniform among the treatments both at the time of emergence as well as at the time of harvest. Various tillage treatments posed a significant effect on soybean plant height during all the growth stages. At 20 DAS significantly highest plant height (13.85 cm) was recorded with treatment ST. It was followed by treatment CvT with a plant height of 12.64 cm. Similar results were found by Gurumurthy et al. (2008). Treatment ST recorded a significantly maximum no. of branches per plant (7.18), which was at par with treatment CvT (6.99) and significantly superior over the rest of the tillage treatments. Tillage practices significantly influenced the leaf area index at all the crop growth stages. Treatment ST recorded a significantly maximum leaf area index per plant(4.89) which was found to be at par with treatment CvT (4.76) and significantly superior to the rest of the tillage treatments. The number of pods/plants was found to be significantly highest with ST. The total pods/ plant with this treatment were 27.76. Treatments CvT, RT, MT, and CnT were followed by ST. The number of pods with soybean plants under CnT treatment was found to be the lowest. The weight of pods also differed significantly due to various tillage treatments. It was weighed highest i.e. up to 6.94 g/ plant with subsoiling treatment. The next better treatment was that of conventional tillage with the respective values of 5.45 g/ plant. As far as the number of grains per pod is concerned, the influence of tillage was less amplified. Significantly highest grains per pod were noted with both, the very deep (ST) and deep (CvT) tillage treatments, i.e. around 2.19 and 2.15 grains per pod. Ozpinar and Ozpinar (2015) observed better growth performance of plants under conservation tillage than in conventional tillage. The remaining tillage practices produced slightly lesser grains per pod, being similar with each other. The most important aspect for obtaining higher grain yield per hectare is the weight of grains/ plant, in which treatment with subsoil tillage out-yielded other treatments. \r\nThe extent of grain weight per plant with this treatment was up to 5.28. It was followed with slightly decreased figures by deep tillage considered the conventional tillage practice (CvT), with grain yield per plant of 4.83 g/ plant. Performance of other treatments was in decreasing order of RT> MT>CnT. As far as test weight is concerned Significantly highest test weight was noted with both, the very deep (ST) and deep (CvT) tillage treatments, i.e. around 11.22 and 10.93 g. CnT performed lowest with 10.61 g of test weight. Increased morphological traits and yield were the outcomes of improved physiological growth (Table.1). Our findings align with earlier research on sunflower growth and production (Sher et al., 2018). According to Wang et al. (2017), conservation tillage leads to stable microbial colonies and nutrient conditions, which improve soil characteristics and lead to increased growth and production. In the case of bottle gourd, similar outcomes were observed in terms of enhanced growth and yield under a teak-based Agroforestry system (Imnatemsu et al. 2020).\r\nYield attributes. ST posed a significant impact than other treatments in respect of grain yield (2219 Kg ha-1) and straw yield (2265 Kg ha-1). The subsequent best treatment obviously was that of conventional tillage (CvT) with grain and straw yield of 2106 Kg ha-1 and 2348 Kg ha-1 respectively. Gurminder et al. (2006) and Gurumurthy and Singh (2006) also noticed similar results for plant yield while conducting their experiment under different tillage practices. Tillage treatment ST attended the most significant biological yield (4684 Kg ha-1) compared with remaining tillage practices. \r\nIt was at par with conventional tillage (CvT), having a biological yield of 4454 Kg ha-1. Treatment ST with the most significant index for harvest (47.37%) ensures higher economic productivity from the tillage system imposed. The inferior harvest index as obtained with CnT (45.04%) designates the plants\' inefficient nutrient supply due to substandard soil physical characteristics.\r\nEconomic advantage. A numerical increase in cultivation cost was noted with treatment CvT (38435Rs/ha) might be due to the operation of 1 ploughing+1 blade harrowing + 2 tyne harrowing at the lateral depth of 23-25 cm costing about 1200 Rs/ ha. It was followed by treatment ST (36504 Rs/ha).Visalakshi and Sireesha, (2015) also reported similar results in maize.TreatmentCnT showed the minimum cost of cultivation (34203 Rs/ ha). Among various tillage practices, significant improvement in gross monetary return was noted with treatment ST (77048 Rs/ ha). Next best tillage practice was CvT with GMR of 73140 Rs/ha. The greatest NMR was delivered by treatment ST, by extending it up to the significantly superior figure of 40543 Rs ha-1. It was followed by CvT (34705 Rs/ha). Wasaya et al. (2017) looked at the impact of different tillage techniques on soil parameters and found that diverse tilling strategies did not influence soil bulk density or moisture content. \r\n\r\n\r\nUnder conservation tillage, this might produce maximum output in Sunflower.\r\n','Tapanwita Senapati, M.R. Deshmukh, Bidusi Tripathy and Sandeep Rout (2022). Influence of Conservation Tillage on Growth, Productivity, and Production Economics of Soybean under the Semi-arid Climate of the Vidarbha Region. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 14(2): 820-823.'),(4961,'125','Evaluation of Rice Germplasm against Bacterial Leaf Blight of Rice caused by Xanthomonas oryzae pv. oryzae','Tabasia Amin*, Vishal Gupta, Sonali Bhagat, Sneha Choudhary, Bushra Rasool, Aarushi Singh, Sheikh Saima Khushboo and Devanshi Pandit','142 Evaluation of Rice Germplasm Against Bacterial Leaf Blight of Rice caused by Xanthomonas oryzae pv. oryzae Tabasia Amin.pdf','',1,'Bacterial leaf blight (BLB) of rice caused by Xanthomonas oryzae pv. oryzae (Xoo) is the most destructive disease of rice, the staple food of almost half of the world\'s population, causing yield loss of 20-30 per cent. Use of host resistance is considered to be the most effective, economical, and environmentally sustainable approach for the management of the disease. From Indian Institute of Rice Research (IIRR), Hyderabad, 91 and 104 germplasm were obtained during 2019 and 2020, respectively, and screened under epiphytotic conditions to identify the source of resistance against BLB. During 2019-20, none of the germplasm was found resistant and only 34 germplasm (L9-19201, LP-18204, RRX-719, WGRH-18, MR-8222, RH-169269, CRHR-105, CRHR-106, SAVA-5065, MP-3020, NK-5251, RNC-0050, IRH-120, IIRRH-136, IRH-122, US-312, TMRH-5559, MEPH-153, RRX-426, US-368, PHI-19103, RH-169292, IIRRH-134, RNE-0122, IIRRH-137, CRHR-148, DLRH-6, PR-121, MEPH-155, NPH-X28, PHI-19101, MTUHR-2105, TNTRH-99, Improved Samba Mahsuri) were found moderately resistant. Whereas, during 2020-21, 33 germplasm lines (KAVERI-7299, UPLRH -179510, RRX-848, JGL-275, US-330, US-314, PR-124, Local Check Variety (LCV), NPH-X628, JKRH-2709, PHI-20102, PHI-20104, US-348, MEPH-157, PR-113S-7004, VNR-225, RRX-890, DLRH-9, MEPH-158, MEPH-159, HRI-174 (NCH), Local Check Variety (LCV), KAVERI- 7623, RRX-708, US-310, JKRH-3333 (NCH-1), 27P63 (NCH-2), WGL-14 (NCV-1) IR-64, RP-BIO-226,IR-50 and Swarnadhan) were found moderately resistant.','Rice, screening, susceptible, blight, germplasm, resistance, disease','None of the germplasm line were found resistant during both the years of crop seasons. Twenty eight germplasm lines (US-317, HRI-201, ARRH-23664, IIRRH-130, PR-124, IRH-121, SHX-468, RRX-533, USD-339, JKRH-2789, IIRRH-131, MUTUHR-2104, Gontra Bindhan-3, RRX-445, RH-169257, PHI-19106, IIRRH-135, CRHR-122, RNE-0148, HRI-174, NDR-359, US-308, MTUHR-2107, CRHR-145, TNRH-294, JKRH-3333, 27P63, WGL-14)found moderately resistant against BLB during 2019 and thirty one germplasm lines (KAVERI-7299, UPLRH -179510, RRX-848, JGL-275, US-330, US-314, PR-124, NPH-X628, JKRH-2709, PHI-20102, PHI-20104, US-348, MEPH-157, PR-113S-7004, VNR-225, RRX-890, DLRH-9, MEPH-158, MEPH-159, HRI-174 (NCH), KAVERI- 7623, RRX-708, US-310, JKRH-3333 (NCH-1), 27P63 (NCH-2), WGL-14 (NCV-1 ) IR-64, RP-BIO-226,IR-50 and Swarnadhan), found moderately resistant against BLB during 2020, should be incorporated in breeding programme to create rice BLB resistance. It will be useful in exploring resistance genes. ','INTRODUCTION\r\nRice is one of the major food crops of the world especially that of the South Asian countries like India, Pakistan, Bangladesh, China, Vietnam and Korea. It is a staple food in India, and occupies a prime position in the country’s economy (Srinivasan and Gnanamanickam 2005). Bacterial leaf blight (BLB), caused by Xanthomonas oryzae pv. Oryzae (Xoo) is one of the most destructive diseases of rice occurring throughout the world (Swings et al., 1990; Ishiyama, 1922; Mew et al., 1993). The incidence of Xoo limits the production of this staple food of more than half the world’s population (Salim et al., 2003). BLB became serious due to the introduction of improved, high yielding varieties, with high nitrogen requirement, close spacing and inadequate resistance to Xoo (Eamchit and Mew 1982). The disease was first noticed in Fukuoka prefecture of Kyushu Island, Japan, in 1884-85 (Ezukaand Kaku, 2000). \r\nIn India, BLB was first noticed from Koloba district of Maharashtra, during 1959 (Srivastava and Rao 1966). In general, the disease is reported to be responsible for a yield loss of 20-50 per cent, depending upon stage of the crop, severity of infection, weather conditions and cultivar response (Srivastava, 1967; Amna, 2008). The disease is known to occur in epidemic form in many parts of the world, causing losses to the extent of 6-60% or even upto 81% in some cultivars (Shehzad et al., 2012). BLB adversely affects grain filling and emergence of panicles, about 28-30% yield reduction was observed in susceptible cultivars by Shahjahan et al. (1991). The disease appears at all the growth stages of the crop, initiating two main symptoms i.e., leaf blight or wilt or Kresek and yellow leaf (Gnanamanickam et al., 1999). The main symptoms of the disease are water soaked stripes along the margin of leaf blades, which later on enlarge and turn yellow. These lesions may cover the entire blade, and may extend to the lower end of leaf sheath. Similar symptoms may occur on glumes of green grains. The causal organism (Xoo) survives in the rhizosphere of weed hosts, infected straw and root stubble and disseminate by wind and water (Shahjahan et al., 1991).Chemical control of BLB is not feasible due to non-availability of effective bactericide (Khush et al., 1989). Though biocontrol agents have been reported to manage the disease to some extent, but their field application is not widely adopted (Khush et al., 1989). Therefore, identification of resistant source against the disease is the most effective, eco-friendly and sustainable approach to manage the disease. The efficiency of breeding for resistant programme is mainly dependent on two important variables, availability of resistant genetic sources and variation within the pathogen population. Breeding for resistance is thus the best option to encounter the disease (Chen et al., 2002). The availability of several genes responsible for resistance may help the breeders to go for various breeding strategies like gene rotation, gene deployment and gene pyramiding. Therefore, the present study is aimed to evalualate rice germplasm for exploring the source of resistance against bacterial leaf blight.\r\nMATERIALS AND METHODS\r\nThe present investigation was undertaken to find the resistant sources of rice against BLB, at Research Farm, SKUAST-J, Chatha, during Kharif 2019 and 2020 under epiphytotic conditions. Ninety one germplasm lines (US-317, HRI-201, ARRH-23664, IIRRH-130, PR-124, IRH-121, SHX-468, RRX-533, USD-339, JKRH-2789, IIRRH-131, MUTUHR-2104, Gontra Bindhan-3, RRX-445, RH-169257, PHI-19106, IIRRH-135, CRHR-122, RNE-0148, HRI-174, NDR-359, US-308, MTUHR-2107, CRHR-145, TNRH-294, JKRH-3333, 27P63, WGL-14, L9-19201, LP-18204, RRX-719, WGRH-18, MR-8222, RH-169269, CRHR-105, CRHR-106, SAVA-5065, MP-3020, NK-5251, RNC-0050, IRH-120, IIRRH-136, IRH-122, US-312, TMRH-5559, MEPH-153, RRX-426, US-368, PHI-19103, RH-169292, IIRRH-134, RNE-0122, IIRRH-137, CRHR-148, DLRH-6, PR-121, MEPH-155, NPH-X28, PHI-19101, MTUHR-2105, TNTRH-99, Improved Samba Mahsuri, RRX- 556, NPX-X4, RH-169035, US-314, CO-51, NPH-101, SAVA-5055, Indam-300-007, LP-19301, US-326, PHI-19107, RRX-633, PHI-19108, Basmati-370, RNC-0158, IIRRH-132, IIRRH-133, PR-113, NPH-X29, HRI-202, PHI-19104, PHI-19105, MP-3310, CP-800, IIRRH-138, HRI-203, CRHR-150, BPT-520 and MEPH-152) were collected All India Coordinated Rice Improvement Programme (AICRIP) Centre, Division of Genetics and Plant Breeding, Faculty of Agriculture, SKUAST-Jammu, Chatha during Kharif season of 2019-2020 for screening against BLB under epiphytic conditions. Whereas, one hundred four germplasm of rice (KAVERI-7299, UPLRH -179510, RRX-848, JGL-275, US-330, US-314, PR-124, Ranbir basmati, NPH-X628, JKRH-2709, PHI-20102, PHI-20104, US-348, MEPH-157, PR-113S-7004, VNR-225, RRX-890, DLRH-9, MEPH-158, MEPH-159, HRI-174 (NCH), SJR 5, KAVERI- 7623, RRX-708, US-310, JKRH-3333 (NCH-1), 27P63 (NCH-2), WGL-14 (NCV-1), IR-64, RP-BIO-226,IR-50, Swarnadhan, HRI-207, NPH-X73, YPH-4009, UPLRH-179524, TMRH-21210, MP-3110, Pusa RH-59, VNR-227, RALLIS-19303, PHI-20103, RRX-809, NS-1202, RNRH-12, Pusa RH-61, IIRRH-144, RNRH-18, US-357, IRH-126, TNRH-303, US-312 (NCV), Basmati-370, KAVERI-7425, PHI-20106, PHI-20109, US-375, IIRRH-145, NRH-30, NDR-359 (NCV), PR-121, Sava- 3701, HRI-206, GK-5003 Pro, NPH-X63, VNR-226, Improved Samba Mahsuri, HR-12, Nidhi, Benibhog, Ajaya, Tetep, PAN-2430, JKRH-1601, PHI-20101, Pusa RH-60, MEPH-156, CO-51 (NCV), HRI-208 NPH-X5, S-4003, YPH-4129, UPLRH-179520, UPLRH-162122, RRX-805, IRH-124, IIRRH-143, RNRH-78, Gontra Bidhan-3 (NCV), HRI-204, Marshal-135 Pro, HRI-205, PHI-20107, PHI-20108, IIRRH-146, TN1 RALLIS-19608, MEPH-161, BPT-5204 (NCV2), Vikramarya, CH-45, CO-39 and KAVERRI-7317) were also collected from All India Coordinated Rice Improvement Programme (AICRIP) Centre, Division of Genetics and Plant Breeding, Faculty of Agriculture, SKUAST-Jammu, Chatha during Kharif season of 2019-2020 for screening against BLB under epiphytic conditions. The seedlings of these germplasm were raised in nurseries on first week of July during 2019 and 2020, adopting all the normal agronomic practices. Transplanting was done on 7th August, 2019 and 10th August, 2020. Each germplasm was grown in two rows of 2 m length, with row to row spacing of 50 cm and plant to plant spacing of 15 cm. Ten plants of each germplasm/variety were randomly selected and tagged for recording observations on the severity of BLB. For creating/initiating disease, 30th days after transplanting, individual plants were inoculated with three-day old culture of Xoo, multiplied on nutrient broth (Kauffman et al., 1973). Irrigation was given immediately after the inoculation to create high humidity for build-up of infection. Disease severity was recorded on 1-9 scale at tillering stage. Percent average lesion area of leaves were measured for disease severity using the following scale:\r\n \r\nn= Number of leaves showing severity score of 1, 3, 5, 7, 9 \r\ntn = Total number of leaves scored\r\n\r\n\r\nDisease response\r\nScale used for assessing disease severity of bacterial blight of rice (IRRI, 2004).\r\nRESULTS AND DISCUSSION\r\nScreening of rice genotypes against bacterial leaf blight of rice during kharif 2019. Based on disease reaction, 91 germplasm lines obtained from Indian Institute of Rice Research, Hyderabad, were grouped into five categories i.e. resistant, moderately resistance, moderately susceptible and susceptible (Table 1, 2). None of the germplasm lines expressed resistant reaction while, 28 lines (US-317, HRI-201, ARRH-23664, IIRRH-130, PR-124, IRH-121, SHX-468, RRX-533, USD-339, JKRH-2789, IIRRH-131, MUTUHR-2104, Gontra Bindhan-3, RRX-445, RH-169257, PHI-19106, IIRRH-135, CRHR-122, RNE-0148, HRI-174, NDR-359, US-308, MTUHR-2107, CRHR-145, TNRH-294, JKRH-3333, 27P63, WGL-14) showed moderately resistant reaction. \r\nThe disease severity for moderately resistant varieties varies between 5.69- 11.91 per cent. Thirty four germplasm lines (L9-19201, LP-18204, RRX-719, WGRH-18, MR-8222, RH-169269, CRHR-105, CRHR-106, SAVA-5065, MP-3020, NK-5251, RNC-0050, IRH-120, IIRRH-136, IRH-122, US-312, TMRH-5559, MEPH-153, RRX-426, US-368, PHI-19103, RH-169292, IIRRH-134, RNE-0122, IIRRH-137, CRHR-148, DLRH-6, PR-121, MEPH-155, NPH-X28, PHI-19101, MTUHR-2105, TNTRH-99, Improved Samba Mahsuri) showed moderately susceptible reaction, having disease severity between 14.61- 24.67 per cent. Twenty eight germplasm lines (RRX- 556, NPX-X4, RH-169035, US-314, CO-51, NPH-101, SAVA-5055, Indam-300-007, LP-19301, US-326, PHI-19107, RRX-633, PHI-19108, Local Check Variety (LCV), RNC-0158, IIRRH-132, IIRRH-133, PR-113, NPH-X29, HRI-202, PHI-19104, PHI-19105, MP-3310, CP-800, IIRRH-138, HRI-203, CRHR-150, SJR5, Basmati 370, Ranbir Basmati BPT-520) showed susceptible reaction, with disease severity ranging between 25.21- 45.63 per cent. One germplasm line (MEPH-152) showed highly susceptible reaction, having disease severity of 69.47 per cent.\r\nScreening of rice genotypes against bacterial leaf blight during kharif 2020. During 2020 also, based on their reaction towards the disease, 104 germplasm lines were grouped into five categories i.e. resistant, moderately resistance, moderately susceptible and susceptible. Data presented in Table 3 and 4 indicate that none of the germplasm lines expressed resistant reaction, while, 33 lines (KAVERI-7299, UPLRH -179510, RRX-848, JGL-275, US-330, US-314, PR-124, Local Check Variety (LCV), NPH-X628, JKRH-2709, PHI-20102, PHI-20104, US-348, MEPH-157, PR-113S-7004, VNR-225, RRX-890, DLRH-9, MEPH-158, MEPH-159, HRI-174 (NCH), Local Check Variety (LCV), KAVERI- 7623, RRX-708, US-310, JKRH-3333 (NCH-1), 27P63 (NCH-2), WGL-14 (NCV-1 ) IR-64, RP-BIO-226, IR-50 and Swarnadhan) showed moderately resistant reaction, with disease severity varying between 7.43-11.98 per cent. Thirty nine lines (HRI-207, NPH-X73, YPH-4009, UPLRH-179524, TMRH-21210, MP-3110, Pusa RH-59, VNR-227, RALLIS-19303, PHI-20103, RRX-809, NS-1202, \r\nRNRH-12, Pusa RH-61, IIRRH-144, RNRH-18, US-357, IRH-126, TNRH-303, US-312 (NCV), Local Check Variety (LCV), KAVERI-7425, PHI-20106, PHI-20109, US-375, IIRRH-145, NRH-30, NDR-359 (NCV), PR-121, Sava- 3701, HRI-206, NPH-X63, VNR-226, Improved Samba Mahsuri, HR-12, Nidhi, Benibhog, Ajaya and Tetep) showed moderately susceptible reaction, with disease severity of14.62-23.65 per cent. Thirty one lines (PAN-2430, JKRH-1601, PHI-20101, Pusa RH-60, MEPH-156, CO-51 (NCV), HRI-208, GK-5003 Pro, NPH-X5, S-4003, YPH-4129, UPLRH-179520, UPLRH-162122, RRX-805, IRH-124, IIRRH-143, RNRH-78, Gontra Bidhan-3( NCV), HRI-204, Marshal-135 Pro, HRI-205, PHI-20107, PHI-20108, IIRRH-146, RALLIS-19608, MEPH-161, BPT-5204 (NCV2), Vikramarya, TN1, CH-45 and CO-39) showed susceptible reaction, with disease severity of 27.56-46.78 per cent. One germplasm line (KAVERRI-7317) showed highly susceptible reaction having disease severity of 78.41 per cent.\r\nDISCUSSION\r\nIdentification of resistance source is the key factor in developing rice resistant cultivar against BLB. While screening the rice germplasm against Xoo, it was recorded that out of 104 germplasm lines screened during kharif 2019, none of the germplasm line expressed resistant reaction while, 28 lines showed moderately resistant reaction, 34 lines were moderately susceptible, 28 lines had susceptible reaction, and one germplasm line showed highly susceptible reaction. Similarly, during kharif 2020, none of the germplasm line expressed resistant reaction, while 31 lines showed moderately resistant reaction, 38 lines showed moderately susceptible reaction, 34lines showed susceptible reaction, and one germplasm line showed highly susceptible reaction.\r\nDuring 2019, out of total germplasm, 30.76 percent were moderately resistant, 37.36 percent moderately susceptible, 30.76 percent showed susceptible and 0.01098 percent highly susceptible reaction towards BLB. Similarly during 2020, out of total germplasm lines 31.73 percent were moderately resistant, 37.5 percent moderately susceptible, 29.80 percent susceptible and 0.009 percent highly susceptible. Variation in reaction of germplasm lines towards the disease may be explained by the fact that they had different genetic makeup. Varietal differences in susceptibility of rice plant to BLB have been well demonstrated by many workers (Ardel- hak et al., 1982; Prasad and Singh, 1985; Prasad et al., 1998; Chauhan et al., 2000; Mashraff et al., 2004 and Anita et al., 2005).Screening of 71 rice germplasm against Xoo exhibited that Siruguppa, 3 genotypes viz., Ajaya, TKM-6 and IR-8 were resistant IR-72, Tetep, PR-111, Zenith, CRMAS-2231-23 and Govind were moderately resistant, whereas, 23 were moderately susceptible, 24 were susceptible and 15 were highly susceptible (Thimmegowda et al.,2011). Screening of 522 rice lines against Xoo showed 16 lines as resistant, 70 as moderately resistant, while the remaining were either susceptible (95) or highly susceptible (341) (Pandey et al.,1999). Evaluation of 104 local rice varieties/lines for resistance to Xoo under field conditions, from 1996 to 1998, showed that IR64, IR8 and Shadab were moderately resistant, while 50, 44 and 7 genotypes showed moderately susceptible, susceptible and highly susceptible response against the Xoo, respectively (Tasleem-uz-zaman et al., 2000). Out of eleven rice genotypes evaluated for resistance against BLB, PARC-301 was the most resistant, having least disease score, followed by PARC-293, PARC-294, PARC-298, PARC-299 and PARC-300 which were statistically at par (Waheed et al., 2009). Screening of 55 varieties against Xoo, exhibited that, 26 varieties were resistant against the disease. IR-72102-3-107-1-1-2 and P-52-9-2 were found moderately resistant and DM-1-30-3-99 was found moderately resistant (Khan et al., 2009). Out of 40 rice genotypes screened against Xoo, none showed significantly resistant response against the pathogen, only six were moderately resistant, eight were graded as moderately susceptible, while 19 were susceptible and six highly susceptible (Naqvi et al., 2015). Screening of 11 rice genotypes against Xoo showed that 4 genotypes as resistant, 3 were moderately resistant and 4 were moderately susceptible (Nahiyan et al., 2016).Field screening of 150 rice genotypes for resistance against BLB was done under natural condition during 2018 and 2019. During 2018, 6 genotypes exhibited resistant (R), 81 moderately resistant (MR), 59 moderately susceptible (MS) and 4 susceptible (S) response. While, in 2019, among the tested 315 rice genotypes, none of the genotypes were resistant, 183 were moderately resistant, 131 moderately susceptible and 1 susceptible reaction to BLB (Acharya and Sujata 2021). \r\n','Tabasia Amin, Vishal Gupta, Sonali Bhagat, Sneha Choudhary, Bushra Rasool, Aarushi Singh, Sheikh Saima Khushboo and Devanshi Pandit (2022). Evaluation of Rice Germplasm against Bacterial Leaf Blight of Rice caused by Xanthomonas oryzae pv. oryzae. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 14(2): 824-832.'),(4962,'125','Soil Physicochemical Properties as Influenced by Fertilisation of Green Manure Crops Grown during RABI','Chendra Babu Naidu A.*, G.S. Madhu Bindu, M. Malla Reddy and M. Uma Devi','143 Soil Physicochemical Properties as Influenced By Fertilisation of Green Manure Crops Grown During RABI Chendra Babu Naidu.pdf','',1,'The quest for increasing food grain production for the ever-increasing population has led to the intensification of agriculture globally resulting in a decrease in soil organic matter leading to soil degradation, loss of soil biological fertility, and biodiversity. Soil health conservation could be done only by recycling plant nutrients and improving soil physicochemical and biological properties. Thus, an experiment was conducted in a strip plot design with seven green manure crops and two fertilization levels and replicated thrice at the College farm, College of Agriculture, Rajendra Nagar during rabi, 2020-21 to understand the influence of fertilization of green manure crops on the soil physicochemical properties. The soil physicochemical properties were analyzed before sowing of the crops, just before their incorporation and 40 days after their incorporation. Cultivation of green manures crops for a single season did not bring significant change in the physicochemical properties of the soil except for infiltration rate at the time of incorporation. Sunhemp sown plots registered higher infiltration rate (99 mm h-1) at the time of incorporation. The lowest infiltration rate on the other side was noted in pillipesara (58 mm hr-1) sown plots. But 40 days after in situ incorporation of the green manure crops, a significant change in the infiltration rate (126 mm h-1) and organic carbon (0.80-0.83) was noted. ','Green manure crops, physicochemical properties, infiltration rate and organic carbon','Cultivation of green manures crops for a single season did not bring significant change in the physicochemical properties of the soil except for infiltration rate at the time of incorporation. The application of green manures to the soil produced an improvement in the soil physicochemical properties though non significantly but brought about a significant change in the infiltration rate and organic carbon content 40 days after incorporation.','INTRODUCTION\r\nGreen manuring is a practice of turning into the soil un-decomposed green plant tissue. The benefits of green manuring are multifold. It increases soil organic matter, available nitrogen and reduces N losses through leaching and soil erosion. It concentrates nutrients near the soil surface in the available form (Sultani et al., 2007). Green manuring is the most important way to influence topsoil. The soil physical properties that are affected by the incorporation of the green manure include the structure, moisture retention capacity, consistency, and density. Other properties such as porosity, aeration, conductivity, hydraulics, and infiltration are allied to the modifications to the soil structure. Application of green manures can reduce soil erosion (Dapaah and Vyn, 1998), enhance soil nutrient-holding ability (Gaston et al., 2003), suppress weed reproduction (Burgos and Talbert, 1996), and reduce crop pest populations (Caswell et al., 1991). Compared to chemical fertilizers, green manure provides more organic substrates and carbon resources for microbial growth, changes soil biomass (Esperschütz et al., 2007), and increases microbial activity and diversity (Jangid et al. 2008; van Diepeningen et al., 2006). In a series of experiments conducted by Goldhamer et al. (1994); Hargrove et al. (1989); Islam and Weil (2000); Min et al. (2003); Tester (1990); Werner (1977), it was concluded that the green manure crops like dhaincha influenced soil structural properties by enmesh of soil primary particles and micro aggregates into macro aggregation through direct- physicochemical action of roots and production of cementing agents from enhanced microbial activities leading to a reduction in the soil bulk density and increase in porosity with greater water retention and transmission capacities. Therefore, the physicochemical properties of the soil improve. It also influences the soil moisture and temperature dynamics (Sultani et al., 2007). The Green manuring and soil fertility transformation are considered synonymous with each other but the success of green manuring is largely dependent upon the quantity of biomass produced and later crops to be grown to exploit upon the elevated soil environment much to the benefit of the crops.\r\nMATERIAL AND METHODS\r\nThe study was conducted during rabi, 2020-21 at college farm, College of Agriculture, Rajendra Nagar, Hyderabad. The experiment was laid out in a strip plot design and replicated thrice on a clay loam soil with seven green manure crops viz., green gram, black gram, horse gram, cowpea, sunhemp, dhaincha and pillipesara. The soil of the experimental site was alkaline in reaction with high organic matter and low soil available nitrogen and high soil available phosphorous and potassium. All the crops were sown in the first week of December. The mean weekly maximum temperature during the experiment ranged from 27.1° to 38.1° while the mean weekly minimum temperature ranged from 11.1° to 22.6°. The mean weekly relative humidity during the experiment at 0730 hrs and 1400 hrs fluctuated between 72.9 to 95.7 percent and 22.0 to 53.6 percent, respectively. A total rainfall of 2.3 mm was received during the experiment which did not account to a single rainy day. The mean sunshine hours extended from 5.9 to 14.8 hours day-1. The evaporative demand of the atmosphere as reflected by pan evaporimeter (USWB Class A pan) during the crop growth varied from 2.7 to 7.0 mm day-1. The wind speed stretched from 2.5 kmph to 5.3 kmph. Recommended dose of fertilizers and seed rate for respective green manure crops are mentioned in the Table 1.\r\nPhysicochemical properties of the soil of the experimental site. The soil samples were collected at random from 30 cm depth and were examined for their physicochemical properties by following certain standard procedures. The results of the analysis are given out in Table 2.\r\nThe data on soil physicochemical properties indicated that the soil was clay loam in texture, highly alkaline (8.62) in reaction, high in organic carbon (0.75 %) whereas, the salt content in the soil was below the critical limit and optimal for the arable crop. \r\nMoisture holding properties of the experimental soil. The moisture retention at field capacity (-0.03 MPa) and permanent wilting point (-1.5 MPa) and bulk density were estimated for 0-15 cm soil depth before the initiation of the experiment, at the time of incorporation of green manure crops and after 40 days of incorporation by adopting procedures of Dastane \r\n(1967) and Saxton and Rawls (2006). The data characterizing the soil moisture retention properties at the time of incorporation and 40 DAI are collected and analyzed. The soil samples for soil moisture estimation was collected at the time of incorporation and during decomposition at 10 days interval up to 40 DAI. The soil moisture content was estimated by gravimetric method by drying the soil samples in the oven at 105°C temperature until a constant weight of the sample was observed. From this, the soil moisture content is calculated as. The results of the analysis are given out in Table 3.\r\nRESULTS AND DISCUSSION\r\nThe soil physicochemical parameters were studied in the terms of soil pH, electrical conductivity, organic carbon content, bulk density, field capacity, permanent wilting point, available moisture, porosity, and infiltration rate. Cultivation of green manures crops for a single season did not bring significant change in the physicochemical properties of the soil except for infiltration rate. Considering the mean values, soil pH ranged from 7.57 to 7.66, EC from 0.92 to 1.04 dS m-1, OC from 0.75 to 0.79 percent and bulk density from 1.07 to 1.15 g cc-1. The parameters designating soil water status ranged as - field capacity from 25.6 to 28.0 percent, the permanent wilting point from 14.8 to 16.3 percent, and available soil moisture content from 18.55 to 18.93 percent at the time of incorporation. The soil physical characteristics characterizing water movement in the soil viz., porosity and infiltration rate ranged from 41.3 to 46.3 percent and 58 to 99 mm h-1, respectively. Significant increase of infiltration rate (99.0 mm h-1) in the sunhemp sown plots may be due to the mining by the extensive root system developed in the crop which can be confirmed from higher root dry weight at harvest. This was followed by cowpea and dhaincha with an infiltration rate of 87 mm h-1. The lowest infiltration rate on the other side was noted in pillipesara (58 mm hr-1) sown plots implying its poor root growth (Table 4).\r\n\r\nThe soil physicochemical parameters were analysed 40 DAI to study the impact of green manure residue incorporation as influenced by fertilisation. Soil pH, electrical conductivity, organic carbon content, bulk density, field capacity, permanent wilting point, available moisture, porosity, and infiltration rate were noted at 40 DAI. Incorporation of green manure residues for a single season did not bring significant change in the physicochemical properties of the soil except for soil organic carbon content and infiltration rate. However, considering the mean values all the physico chemical properties of the soil have been moderated favourably for crop growth. The soil pH after 40 DAI ranged from 7.39 to 7.49, EC from 0.82 to 0.87 dS m-1, OC from 0.80 to 0.83, bulk density from 1.00 to 1.12 g cc-1. The parameters designating soil water status ranged as - field capacity from 27.3 to 32.0 percent, the permanent wilting point from 15.4 to 20.6 percent, and available soil moisture content from 17.1 to 20.1 percent at 40 DAI. The soil physical parameters characterizing water movement in the soil viz., porosity and infiltration rate ranged from 45.4 to 49.1 percent and 80 to 126 mm h-1, respectively. A significant increase of infiltration rate in the sunhemp sown plots (126 mm h-1) was noted due to the moderated soil physicochemical properties viz., reduced bulk density and increased porosity. This was followed by dhaincha, cowpea with an infiltration rate of 117 mm h-1. The lowest infiltration rate on the other side was noted in pillipesara sown plots (80 mm h-1) implying its poor root growth (Table 5).\r\n','Chendra Babu Naidu A., G.S. Madhu Bindu, M. Malla Reddy and M. Uma Devi (2022). Soil Physicochemical Properties as Influenced by Fertilisation of Green Manure Crops Grown during RABI. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 14(2): 833-837.'),(4963,'125','Study on Copper Tolerance of Trichoderma','Gundurao, Susanta Banik*, H. Meronbala Devi1, Waluniba, A. P. Singh and Arentola Lemtor','144 Study on Copper Tolerance of Trichoderma Gundurao.pdf','',1,'The present study was envisaged to know the tolerance potential of Trichoderma sp. to copper compounds in vitro for possible incorporation in the integrated disease management strategy at field level. The study was carried out during 2020-2021 at SASRD, NU, Medziphema Campus. Copper tolerance ability of Trichoderma asperellum was tested by growing it in media containing two copper compounds namely copper oxychloride and copper sulfate separately each with concentrations of 250, 500, 750 and 1000ppm. The growth test indicated that T. asperellum was most inhibited at 1000ppm concentration of copper sulfate and copper oxychloride, the colony diameter were 18.17 and 5.67mm respectively relative to 61.83mm in control. Among all the treatments, the highest mycelial growth was recorded in treatment receiving copper oxychloride at 250ppm concentration with 85.67mm diameter of Trichoderma asperellum which is statistically at par with growth in control plate, whereas the treatment receiving copper oxychloride at 1000ppm recorded the lowest mycelial growth of 13.33mm. In the treatment containing copper oxychloride at 250ppm, Trichoderma asperellum inhibited mycelial growth of Fusarium oxysporum f.sp. pisi to 24.17 mm.','Trichoderma asperellum, copper oxychloride, copper sulfate, Fusarium oxysporum f.sp. pisi, Compatibility, Tolerance','Based on results obtained in the present investigation, it shows that T. asperellum can grow at 250 ppm concentration of copper oxychloride and copper sulfate and it can inhibit the growth of pathogen also compared to other treatments. This result leads to the conclusion that T. asperellum may be used with copper compounds at low concentration to control plant pathogens in the integrated disease management programme after a through field study on the same.','INTRODUCTION\r\nOne of the most important biocontrol agents is Trichoderma spp. the most frequently isolated and studied soil fungi and present in plant root atmosphere (Harman et al., 2004). Trichoderma sp. belongs to phylum Ascomycota, order Hypocreales and family Hypocreaceae (Chaverri and Samuel, 2004). Many advantages can be gained by using Trichoderma in agriculture; it can colonise roots and rhizosphere of plants, mechanisms in managing plant pathogens like mycoparasitism, antibiosis and induction of systemic resistance in plants, encouraging plant development, triggers development of roots (Harman et al., 2004). The interaction between Trichoderma and plants is restricted to the first epidermal cell layer of the root bark. Plant benefit from this symbiotic relationship because it protects them from diseases, also encourage plant and root growth by increasing nutrient availability (Hermosa et al., 2012).\r\nThe species under the genus Trichoderma are well characterized by broad adoption to stress conditions caused by heavy metals like cadmium, copper, mercury, zinc and lead (Williams et al., 2003; Maldaner et al., 2020; Mohammadian et al., 2017). Among environmental stresses in soil most important are the presence of heavy metals and various chemicals, fluctuation of temperature or water potential (Kredics et al., 2001). T. asperellum tolerated the CuOH concentration up to 500 ppm and toxicity symptoms appeared beyond concentration of 500 ppm (Singh et al., 2018). High metal absorption ability was seen Trichoderma and in other filamentous fungi such as Penicillium, and Aspergillus species, especially for Cu and Co (Dusengemungu et al., 2020). The copper tolerance of Trichoderma sp. has been studied (Kredics et al., 2001; Anand et al., 2006). The selection of copper tolerant Trichoderma may be a better option in plant disease management as copper fungicides are often used in field condition for management of plant diseases. In this backdrop, the present work was carried out to study the copper tolerance ability in Trichoderma asperellum and efficacy of Trichoderma asperellum against plant pathogenic fungi in presence of copper compound.\r\nMATERIALS AND METHODS\r\nThe present study was carried out in the laboratory of the Department of Plant Pathology, SASRD, Nagaland University, Medziphema Campus, Nagaland, located at an altitude of 310 m above mean sea level with the following geographical coordinates: 25° 45´ 45´´N;93° 51´45´´E. The parental strains of T. asperellum and pathogen Fusarium oxysporum f. sp. Pisi were obtained from the stock culture of Department of Plant Pathology, SASRD, NU, Medziphema and maintained on PDA slants at 4°C in refrigerator.\r\nPreparation of stock solution of copper oxychloride and copper sulfate. To prepare stock solution of copper oxychloride five grams of copper oxychloride 50% WP was added to 500 ml conical flask containing 100 ml distilled water and the volume was made up to 250 ml to get 10000 ppm stock solution. For preparation of stock solution of copper sulfate two and half grams of copper sulfate was added to 500 ml conical flask containing 100 ml distilled water, volume made up to 250 ml to get 10000 ppm stock solution of 250 ml copper sulfate.\r\nPreparation of poisoned media with different concentrations of copper oxychloride and copper sulfate\r\nTo prepare PDA media containing 250, 500, 750 and 1000 ppm concentrations of copper oxychloride and copper sulfate, 100 ml conical flasks containing media were added with 2.5, 5, 7.5 and 10 ml of 10000 ppm stock solution of copper oxychloride and copper sulfate respectively, volume was made up to 100 ml with PDA media.\r\nIn vitro study of copper tolerance ability in Trichoderma asperellum\r\nCopper tolerance ability of Trichoderma asperellum was tested by adopting poisoned food technique (Sinclair and Dhingra 1995). Appropriate dilutions of 250 ppm, 500 ppm, 700 ppm and 1000 ppm were prepared from stock solution of 10000 ppm of copper compounds (copper sulfate and copper oxychloride). Twenty ml of copper compounds-amended medium (250 ppm, 500 ppm, 700 ppm and 1000 ppm) were poured in each sterilized Petri plates (90mm diameter). Streptomycin was added to the poisoned medium at the time of pouring to prevent bacterial contamination. Suitable checks were maintained without addition of copper compounds. From seven-days old culture of Trichoderma asperellum a uniform disc of 5mm was cut with cork borer and inoculated aseptically and placed on to the center of Petri plate. These plates containing PDA amended with different concentration of copper compounds were kept upside down for better contact of pathogen to the media. The plates were incubated at 25±2°C in BOD incubator. The colony diameter (mm) of the Trichoderma asperellum was determined by measuring the average radial growth on the 4th day after inoculation, when the control plates were full. Average radial growth was measured by using a measuring scale from the Petri plated lower view. Based on the observations recorded, percent inhibition of the Trichoderma asperellum was calculated using formulae given by Vincent (1947).\r\nEfficacy of Trichoderma asperellum against plant pathogens in presence of copper compound. Efficacy of Trichoderma asperellum was tested against Fusarium oxysporum f.sp. pisi under in vitro condition by adoption of dual culture technique (Morton and Stroube 1955). Twenty milliliter copper compound amended sterilized PDA was aseptically poured in sterilized Petri plates and allowed to solidify. Mycelial discs (5mm) taken from the actively growing colonies of the test pathogen and T. asperellum (7 days old culture) were placed simultaneously on the PDA plates opposite to each other, 1 cm apart from the periphery. Three replications were maintained for each treatment. The inoculated Petri plates were incubated at 27±2°C. And the plates without copper compounds act as control. First observation was taken just after contact of pathogen and antagonist and radial growth of the test pathogen was measured. Based on the observations recorded, percent inhibition was calculated using formulae given by Vincent (1947).\r\n% I = ((C-T)/C)*100\r\nWhere, I= Percent inhibition of pathogens by antagonist, C= Radial growth in control (mm), T= Radial growth in the treatment (mm).\r\nStatistical analysis and interpretation. The Fisher’s method of analysis of variance was used to analyse the data. The significance of variance among the data was calculated out by calculating the F value and comparing it with the tabulated value of F (Snedocor and Cochran, 1967). The treatment means were also compared among themselves by calculating Critical difference. Critical difference (CD) was calculated for comparison in those cases where \"F\" test was significant at 5 per cent level of significance as given by Snedecor and Cochran (1967).\r\nRESULTS AND DISCUSSION\r\nBy using poison food technique, tolerance ability of Trichoderma asperellum was evaluated against copper compounds. The data presented in Table 1 shows mycelia growth measured after 24 hours, 48 hours, 72 hours and 96 hours of inoculation. The copper compounds significantly inhibited the mycelia growth of T. asperellum. At 24 hours after inoculation, highest mycelial growth was recorded in T1: Copper oxychloride 250ppm 19.00 mm which is statistically on par with T5: Copper sulfate 250ppm 18.33 mm. At 48hours, the highest mycelial growth was recorded in T1: Copper oxychloride 250ppm 55.33 mm and found superior over other treatments. Least growth was noticed in T4: Copper oxychloride 1000ppm 0.00mm. At 72hours, highest mycelia growth was recorded in T1: Copper oxychloride 250ppm 69.67mm and followed by T5: Copper sulfate 250 ppm 63.33mm, the least growth was noticed in T4: Copper oxychloride 1000ppm 9.33 mm. At 96hours, T1: Copper oxychloride 250ppm recorded highest growth of 85.67mm which is statistically at par with T0: Control 90.00 mm. The treatment T4: Copper oxychloride 1000 ppm recorded least mycelia growth of 13.33 mm. Findings of present investigation revealed that T. asperellum can grow in presence of copper compounds at 250 ppm and at increasing concentration of copper compounds, radial growth of mycelia was decreased. The findings are in agreement with several earlier reports. Chahdi et al. (2019) who reported that the mycelia growth of T. asperellum was 31.1 mm in medium amended with copper sulfate at 1000 mg L-1 in contrast to 68.1 mm in control. Maheshwary et al. (2020) carried out compatibility test of some fungicides with T. asperellum and reported that T. asperellum showed compatibility with copper hydroxide and copper oxychloride.\r\nSingh et al. (2018) reported that T. asperellum (MH593785) tolerated the CuOH concentration up to 500ppm and beyond 500 ppm copper toxicity symptoms appeared, the mycelial growth inhibition percent were observed as 54.125% and 65.83% at 750ppm and 1000 ppm respectively by using poison food technique. Maldaner et al. (2020) also evaluated isolates of Trichoderma against copper (CuSO4) and reported that some isolates showing reduced mycelial growth above 100 mg L-1 concentrations. Anand et al. (2006) and Ting and Choong (2009) reported that the mechanism of tolerance in Trichoderma isolate depends on bioaccumulation and binding of copper on cell wall surface. Tolerant isolates of T. asperellum deposit the metal on the cell wall, whereas, the metal causes destruction of mycelia in sensitive isolates. Copper enters the cell wall, causing increase in vacuole size and shrinking of the cytoplasmic material, resulting in destruction of cell was reported by Ladi et al. (2020).\r\nEfficacy of T. asperellum against F. o.f. sp. pisi in presence of copper compounds by using dual culture technique is shown in Table 2. In T1: Copper oxychloride 250ppm F. o. f.sp. pisi recorded mycelia growth of 24.17 mm in presence of T. asperellum which is statistically on par with T0: Control (25.33 mm), followed by T5: Copper sulfate 250ppm (23.83mm). The antagonistic activity of T. asperellum towards the pathogen F. o. f.sp. pisi was influenced by increasing concentrations of copper compounds. Copper compounds may have increased the inhibitory effect of volatile compounds generated by T. asperellum through an antibiosis mechanism (Chahdi et al., 2019). The results of the present investigation are in accordance with Chahdi et al. (2019) who reported that T. asperellum inhibited the growth of V. dahlia in presence of copper sulfate. Kapoor (2008) evaluated the effect of volatile compounds of Trichoderma on the growth of Sclerotium rolfsii and Fusarium oxysporum f.sp. pisi and found inhibitory to both these pathogens. Trichoderma viride showed maximum inhibition on radial growth of Fusarium oxysporium f.sp. capsici (76.74±0.4) in dual culture assay was revealed by Aswini et al. (2016).\r\n','Gundurao, Susanta Banik, H. Meronbala Devi, Waluniba, A. P. Singh and Arentola Lemtor (2022). Study on Copper Tolerance of Trichoderma. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 14(2): 838-844.'),(4964,'125','Effectiveness of Selection for Yield and its Components in Soybean \r\n[Glycine max (L.) Merrill]\r\n','Santanu Kumar Sahoo*, M. K. Karnwal, Himanshu Prasad and Arvind Chauhan','145 Effectiveness of Selection for Yield and its Components in Soybean Santanu Kumar Sahoo.pdf','',1,'An experiment was conducted with 9 F6 crosses (each cross consists of 5 lines of high yielding, 5 lines of low yielding and 5 lines of bulk) of soybean in compact family block design for fourteen quantitative characters to identify the best method for selection and superior crosses in advance breeding lines through per se performance and inter correlation analysis. The inter correlation analysis within same family for the trait seed yield per plant and per se performance study exhibited that C7 (PS 1583×Bragg) was best performing cross followed by C4(PS1584×JS2069) and C5 (JS20-64×JS20-54) through bulk method of selection. The inter cross correlation analysis for the character seed yield per plant and per se performance study revealed that among all high yielding lines, C7 (18.04g) was the best cross. Among all low yielding lines, C7 and C3 both were the best performing crosses. Among bulk lines, C7 and C5 emerged as best crosses. Hence, recent study revealed that bulk method of selection in soybean would be a good alternative than pedigree method for high yielding variety development as it is inexpensive and little record keeping. It also showed that bulk method of selection not only help in handling large segregating population but also provides opportunity for natural selection of high yielding and disease resistant lines. ','Soybean, Bulk method, Pedigee method, Per se performance, Inter correlation analysis','Inter correlation analysis within same family for the traits namely, seed yield per plant (g) was revealed that the yield variation among high yielding, low yielding and bulk lines was found significant and direct selection within same family could be effective for increasing yield in later generations. From the inter correction analysis within same family as well as among different families and mean seed yield per plant, it was revealed that C7 (PS 1583 × Bragg) and C6 (PS 1584 × JS 20-69) were better performing crosses through pedigree method of selection in high yielding lines. In low yielding lines, C7 (PS 1583 × Bragg) and C3 (JS 20-69 × JS 20-59) were better performing crosses through pedigree method of selection. In bulk lines, C7 (PS 1583 × Bragg) and C6 (PS 1042 × PS1347) were better performing crosses through bulk method of selection. ','INTRODUCTION\r\nSoybean (Glycine max (L.) Merrill) is one of the most important oilseed crop in the world which is grown since ancient times and is one of the oldest grown crop known to mankind (Peerzada et al., 2014). The North-eastern China region is believed to be the primary centre of origin of this crop. Introduction of soybean to the Indian subcontinent dates back to 1000 AD (Orf et al., 1980). Soybean (2n=40) is botanically placed under the family Fabaceae. Soybean plant favours an optimum temperature of 30°C for its normal growth and development while an optimum temperature for seedlings emergence is found to be 25–33°C. It also fixes the atmospheric nitrogen in soil through symbiotic relationship with biological nitrogen fixing bacteria namely Bradyrhizobium japonicum and Bradyrhizobium diazoefficiens (Siqueira et al., 2014). Soybean is an important multi-purpose leguminous crop known for its highly valued protein and oil, and its use in food, feed and industrial applications. Hence it is popularly known as the “Golden Bean” of the 20th century. Soybean has been typically used for preparation of traditional and as well as value added food products such as tofu, shoyu, okara, miso, natto, soy milk, soya sauce, tempeh, soy sprouts and soymilk yoghurt etc. which are being consumed on a regular basis in China, Japan, Korea and Southeast Asia (Muredzi, 2013). Soybean seeds have the highest protein content (30-45%) of all food crops and also contains a considerable oil content (15-24%) comprising high percent of unsaturated fatty acids (Akram et al., 2011). The oil contains 85% unsaturated fatty acids which is free from cholesterol, along with ample mineral elements which is very desirable for human diet (Antalina, 2000). \r\nA rapid increase in area under soybean has been observed which was just 0.03 million ha in 1970 to 12.05 million ha in 2021 (MOA and FW, GOI, 2022) and mean annual productivity has been increased from 430 kg per ha in 1970 to 1280 kg per ha with the production of 13.58 m tons in 2021 (SOPA, 2022). However, world productivity level has not yet been achieved in India. The major constraints for low productivity in India are low varietal stability and narrow genetic base. Therefore, soybean productivity can be enhanced through creating genetic variability and employing effective selection methods to recover superior transgressive segregation lines in advance generation. Hence, the present investigation was carried out to find out superior crosses and the best method for selection in advance breeding lines through per se performance and inter correlation analysis, respectively.\r\nMATERIALS AND METHODS\r\nThe present investigation was conducted during kharif 2019 at N. E. Borlaug Crop Research Centre, Govind Ballabh Pant University of Agriculture & Technology, Pantnagar, Udham Singh Nagar, Uttarakhand. The experimental material in the present study consisted of nine F6 crosses which were planted in compact family block design with three replications in kharif 2019 (each cross containing 5 lines of high yielding, 5 lines of low yielding and 5 lines of bulk). Bulk lines of each cross were handled through bulk method since F3 generation. 15 rows (5 progeny rows of high yielding, 5 progeny rows of low yielding and 5 rows of bulk progenies) of 4 meter with 45 cm row to row spacing for each F6 cross was planted in Kharif 2019, while two rows of parents were planted alongside the crosses. Plant to plant distance was maintained at 5 to 7 cm after thinning. Data was taken from 5 randomly selected competitive plants from each row of high yielding, low yielding progeny and parent of each cross. But 5 randomly competitive plants from 5 bulk rows of each cross were selected for recording data. Data was recorded from each line of all crosses for the most promising and variable character “seed yield per plant”. The per se performance was calculated by taking mean seed yield per plant. The phenotypic inter correlations between all lines within same family as well as among the families were estimated according to the method given by Searle (1961). \r\nRESULTS AND DISCUSION\r\nPer se performance indicates the performance of plants by “itself”. Therefore, performances of various crosses were selected in advance generation based on their mean seed yield per plant which is presented in Table 4.\r\nAmong high yielding lines, the highest per se performance was shown by C7 (18.04 g) followed by C4 (17.13 g), C3 (13.11 g), C5 (10.81 g), C1 (10.28 g), C8 (6.94 g), C2 (6.17 g), C6 (5.27 g) and C9 (1.84). Among low yielding lines, the highest per se performance was exhibited by C7(14.10 g) followed by C3(11.13 g), C5(10.54 g), C1(9.26 g), C4(9.01 g), C6(7.62 g), C8(6.83 g), C2(6.47 g) and C9(5.63g) whereas among bulk lines, the highest per se performance was shown by the C7(33.66 g) followed by C5(23.26 g), C6(19.24 g), C3(18.79 g), C4(18.75 g), C9(16.56 g), C2(11.07 g), C8(7.83 g) and C1(7.1 g). The mean seed yield of three lines of each cross was added and overall per se performance was estimated. The study of overall per se performance stated that C7 was the most promising cross followed by C4, C5, C3 and C6 whereas C9 was the poorest performing cross. Sharma et al. (2012) also reported the similar result. \r\nIn the present investigation, inter correlation among high yielding lines, low yielding lines and bulk lines within same family at phenotypic level was estimated for the trait “seed yield per plant (g)” to screen out the best method of selection in above promising crosses. It was indicated that there were significant and positive correlation found among different lines in different crosses which revealed that method of selection through inter correlation study played an important role in soybean in advance generation. \r\nInter correlation analysis within same family in F6 generation for seed yield per plant at phenotypic level exhibited that there was significant and positive correlation was present between high yielding lines and bulk lines viz. HB(0.77) in C1 (JS20-29 × JS20-55) which indicated that seed yield variation between these two line was really significant. The mean seed yield of high yielding lines was 10.28 g which was higher than bulk lines (7.1 g) which showed that pedigree method in high yielding lines was performing better than bulk method. In C2 (PS 1584 × JS 20-41), high yielding lines was significant and positively correlated with low yielding lines for the trait seed yield per plant (0.54). Similarly, there was negative and significant correlation present between low yielding-bulk lines (-0.84). As mean seed yield of bulk lines was higher than high and low yielding lines thus bulk method was performing better than pedigree method. There was positive and significant correlation present between high yielding-bulk line in C3 (JS 20-69 × JS 20-59) and mean seed yield of bulk lines was more than other lines; hence bulk method is better than pedigree method. In C4 (PS 1584 × JS 20-69), a negative and significant correlation was present between high yielding- bulk lines (-0.68) and bulk lines had more mean seed yield per plant which indicated the predominance of bulk method over pedigree method. Similarly a positive significant correlation was found in high-low yielding lines (0.67) in C5 (JS 20-64 × JS 20-54) and correlation between high yielding and bulk lines was negative. As bulk lines have high mean seed yield thus bulk method was better than pedigree method. The inter correlation study in C6 (PS 1042 × PS1347) showed that high yielding and low yielding lines were negatively and significantly correlated with each other whereas low yielding and bulk lines were positively and significantly correlated. As bulk lines showed a negative correlation with high yielding lines and exhibited higher mean seed yield than other two lines thus bulk method was performing better than pedigree method. There was positive and significant correlation 0.92 and 0.61 were exhibited by high yielding-bulk and low yielding-bulk line, respectively in C7(PS 1583 × Bragg). Bulk line had high mean seed yield than other two lines so bulk method was predominant than pedigree. All the lines in C8(PS 1583 × JS 20-29) didn’t show any significant correlation. Therefore, mean seed yield did not significantly differ among these lines of C8. In C9 (RVS 2000-1 × PS 1092), there was significant and negative correlation between low yielding and bulk lines (-0.56). Bulk lines also showed a negative correlation with high yielding lines. As bulk lines had more mean seed yield thus bulk method was performing superior than pedigree method. The above inter correlation analysis values within same family for the trait seed yield per plant is shown in Table 1. \r\nThe above inter correlation analysis within same family and overall per se performance study exhibited that C 1 was better performing through pedigree method of selection whereas in C2, both pedigree and bulk lines were equally performing. The bulk method of selection was the best for C7 followed by C4, C5, C3 and C6.\r\nIn the present investigation the inter correlation between high yielding- high yielding, low yielding-low yielding and bulk-bulk lines among different family at phenotypic level was carried out for the traits seed yield per plant. It was revealed that the significant correlation was present among different crosses in different lines which helped to find out the best cross among high yielding, low yielding and bulk lines through direct selection. \r\nIn F6 generation, inter correlation analysis among different family at phenotypic level for the trait seed yield per plant revealed that among high yielding lines, C1 exhibited positive and significant correlation with C2 (0.49), C3 (0.45), C5 (0.51) and C6 (0.39) and also showed a negative and significant correlation with C4(-0.62). The positive and significant correlations exhibited by C2 with C5 (0.54), C6(0.83), C7 (0.41) and a negative significant correlation with C9 (-0.41). Similarly, C3 showed positive and significant correlation with C4 (0.81), C7 (0.5) and negative significant correlation with C8 (-0.9) and C9 (-0.66). C4 exhibited a positive significant correlation with C7 (0.49) and negative significant correlation with C5 (-0.71) and C8 (-0.74). There was a positive significant correlation between C5C6 (0.43) and C5C8 (0.53) and a negative significant correlation between C5C9(0.61). C7 showed a negative significant correlation with C8 (-0.81). From the above correlation analysis and mean seed yield per plant study, it was revealed that among all high yielding lines, C7 (18.04g) was the best cross followed by C4 (17.13g) and C3 (13.11g). \r\nAmong low yielding lines, the positive and significant correlation at phenotypic level exhibited by crosses viz. C1C6(0.9), C4C8(0.79), C6C9(0.77), C2C5(0.74), C5C8 (0.7), C1C9(0.65), C3C4(0.46), C3C8(0.46), C7C9(0.44) and C2C8(0.4). Similarly negative and significant correlations at phenotypic level exhibited by the crosses viz. C5C7(-0.83), C1C3(-0.74), C2C7(-0.74), C3C6(-0.69), C4C6(-0.55), C2C9(-0.46) and C7C8(-0.4). Among all low yielding lines, C7 and C3 both were best performing crosses as they had high mean seed yield per plant (14.1g) and they were not significantly correlated with each other. \r\nAmong bulk lines, the positive and significant correlation at phenotypic level exhibited by the crosses viz. C2C5 (0.99), C2C3 (0.97), C1C9 (0.95), C6C8 (0.95), C3C5 (0.94), C5C8 (0.93), C2C8 (0.9), C7C9 (0.89), C5C6 (0.77), C3C8 (0.75), C1C2 (0.74), C1C7 (0.71), C2C6 (0.71) and C3C6 (0.5). The negative and significant correlation at phenotypic level exhibited by the crosses viz. C1C6 (-0.99), C1C8 (-0.96), C6C9 (-0.96), C8C9 (-0.83), C1C5 (-0.8), C6C7 (-0.74), C4C7 (-0.71), C2C4 (-0.6), C4C5 (-0.6), C5C9 (-0.57), C1C2 (-0.56), C2C9 (-0.5) and C7C8 (-0.49). Among bulk lines, C7 and C5 exhibited high mean seed yield per plant (33.66g ) and did not significantly correlated hence these two cross emerged as best crosses among all others followed by C6 (19.24g). The above inter correlation study among different lines among different family is presented in Table 2. \r\nThe inter correlation analysis and mean seed yield per plant study revealed that among all high yielding lines C7, C4 and C3 were best performing crosses whereas C7 and C3 were better performing crosses in low yielding lines. Similarly in bulk lines, C7 and C5 both were equally better performing crosses followed by C6 which are given in Table 3.\r\nRecent study showed the comparison between bulk method and pedigree method of handling of soybean lines. In advance generation (F6), the bulk lines which were handled since F3 exhibited superior performance for yield contributing characters especially seed yield \r\nper plant than those of pedigree lines. Hence, it not only gives us a great scope for natural selection of many traits including disease resistant but also enables us for screening large segregating population in advance generation.\r\n','Santanu Kumar Sahoo, M K Karnwal, Himanshu Prasad and Arvind Chauhan (2022). Effectiveness of Selection for Yield and its Components in Soybean [Glycine max (L.) Merrill]. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 14(2): 845-849.'),(4965,'125','Bio-Stimulants- An Overview','Addagarla Bhanu Prakash*, Gowreddy Sairam Reddy, Nadendla Harsha Vardhan, Sreemoy Bhattacharyya and Kanak Bhati \r\n','146 Bio-Stimulants- An Overview Addagarla Bhanu Prakash.pdf','',1,'Bio-stimulants are the formulated products of biological origin, which are used to increase the crop growth, plant height, increase the yield and to reduce the infestation of pests and diseases in the specific crop. These product shows the positive responses within the crop, the quality parameters in these products are absolutely meet the requirements given by the approval board and hence certified by the Standing committee on chemicals and fertilizers. The Bio-stimulants does not differ much from the Plant Growth Regulators (PGRs). These are products with similar, but heightened abilities to that of PGRs. These Bio-stimulants increases a plants resistance towards Abiotic stresses within the environment.These Bio-Stimulants faces major challenge in marketing as their approval as a widely used products is still not considered by farmers. Bio- Stimulants contribute to low input, high output and sustainable crop productions. In this review article I have discussed the functions, sources, classifications, applications in various crops, and problems faced in market approval.','Biological origin, standing committee on chemicals & fertilizers, PGRs, Abiotic stress, plant height, NUE and yield increase','By the above provided information on the Bio-stimulants, we can conclude that they play a vast role in sustainability of agriculture by mitigating the use of chemical fertilizers. Bio-stimulants enhances the enzymatic activity in the plants. They aid in the good performing of plant’s vital processes thus, increase the yield. They help in the production of good quality products. They are applied for the soil-nutrient enrichment, provides stability to the crops, Increases the nitrogen use efficiency (NUE) and reduces the need for fertilizers, Tolerance towards abiotic stress conditions and incase of sugarcane it helps in Maintenance of higher rates of photosynthesis, transpiration, and stomatal conductance. We can conclude that the seaweed extracts are pretty effective in terms of application and are highly utilized by natural course of application. The global market for bio-stimulants is projected to increase 12 % per year and reach over $2,200 million by 2018. (Duanyin et al., 2015) but, currently its growth was reached to 3.2 billion dollars in 2021 and is estimated to reach 5.6 billion dollars by 2026 (Dublin, 2021). The Bio-stimulants definition and formulations are undergoing change from day to day which explains the increasing demand for its useful effects in improving yield and grain quality in different crops (Carolina and Helena, 2019).','INTRODUCTION\r\n“A plant Bio-stimulant is any substance or microorganism, in the form in which it is supplied to the user, applied to plants, seeds or the root environment with the intention to stimulate natural processes of plants benefiting nutrient use efficiency and/or tolerance to abiotic stress, regardless of its nutrient content, or any combination of such substances and/or microorganisms intended for this use” (Def. Proposed by ARCADIA)\r\nThe bio-stimulants are those products which reduces a plants requirement of nutrients and fertilizers. By the application of Bio-stimulants the plant uses the low available nutrients efficiently, so as that there is no requirement of fertilizer application. These Bio-stimulants serves a great purpose and ensures the agricultural sustainability in those areas which possess agricultural lands with less availability of nutrients. These products when applied at low concentrations are pretty much beneficial to the plant but, when applied in high concentration there will be noticeable fatality responses shown by the plants (Carolina et al., 2019). the Bio-stimulants are not useful in barren lands where there is no fertility and minimum available nutrient in the soil. These products have gained a lot of audience (farmers) and has been gathering attention since past 21/2 decades from both commercial and scientific communities (Crouch and van Staden, 1993; Herve, 1994; Zhang and Schmidt, 1999; Maini, 2006; Khan et al., 2009; Apone et al., 2010; Craigie, 2011; Sharma et al., 2014; Brown and Saa, 2015; Du Jardin, 2015; Yakhin et al., 2016; Yakhin et al 2017).\r\nThe plant Bio-stimulants was named under different synonyms over the past 30 years based on their origin, and mode of action (Lefort, 2021). It was first experimented on sugarcane crop under moderate water stress conditions which results in rise in rates of photosynthesis, transpiration, and stomatal mechanisms. The ‘Bio genic’ stimulant theory is initially given by Prof. V.P. Filatov in USSR in the year 1933 (Filatov, 1944, 1951; Gordon, 1947; Sukhoverkhov, 1967; Yakhin et al 2017). He proposed that the environmental stresses can cause both metabolic and enzymatic effects in plants, humans, and animals. The works are further carried by Blagoveshchensky in the years 1945, 1955, 1956. He considered the Bio genic stimulants as organic acids due to their properties to increase the enzymatic activity in plants.\r\n \r\n\r\n\r\nBasic Functions of Bio-stimulants: \r\n1. Root structure and growth – The application of these biological substances helps in the formation of good root structure and stimulates growth.\r\n2. Water use efficiency – The biological substances reduce the water need of a plant by utilizing the less water to complete their metabolism.\r\n3. Nutrient use efficiency – Bio-stimulants mitigates the crops need for fertilizers by utilizing the nutrients provided to the crop scarcely.\r\n4. Stress tolerance – Bio-stimulants mainly concentrates on increasing the tolerance of the crop to the environmental stresses caused by both Biotic and abiotic factors.\r\n5. Disease resistance – These organic compounds aid the crops against the regular and lethal diseases by the increasing a plants disease tolerance ability.\r\nCATEGORIES:\r\nAlthough there are different types of bio-stimulants, only 2 of them are popular kinds of bio-stimulants which are based on the substance, and micro-organisms. The substances include Humic and fulvic acid, seaweed extracts, protein hydrolysates, inorganic compounds, chitosan. The micro-organisms include the rhizospheric, epiphytic, PGRs, beneficial fungi, beneficial bacteria and endophytic microbiota are also being domesticated for the future application (Lefort, 2021). The bacteria, fungi and PGRs can befree-living, rhizospheric or endosymbiotic in nature (Du Jardin 2015). Among these ingredients the acid-based materials acquire the largest Bio-stimulant market followed by Seaweed based materials (Ute Albrecht, 2019).\r\nClassification Based on Substance\r\nHumic and Fulvic acids: - (Du Jardin. P. 2015; Du Jardin. P. 2012; Ute Albrecht, 2019).\r\nThese are heterogenous compounds, categorized based on their solubility and molecular mass from the Humic substances (HS). These humic substances are of the natural origin as per the reason, that they are accumulated from the plant, animal decays, along with soil microbial residues. The humic acid is darker in colour and high molecular weight, whereas Fulvic acid is lighter in colour and possess low molecular weight. Humic acid also consists of high degree of polymerization and carbon content. \r\nThe Humic substances are resulted due to interactive relationship between plant roots, organic matter, and microbes. For someone to use any of these humic substances for the beneficence of the plant growth, they must analyze and interpret this interactive relationship.\r\nThe Humic substances are obtained from the sources like humidified organic substances (like cocopeat, volcanic or organic soils) and mineral depositions (e.g., soft coal and leonardite), which are Non-renewable sources and can also be obtained from renewable and sustainable agricultural sources like compost and vermicompost. \r\n “Humic like Substances” obtained from the controlled breakdown and by the oxidation through chemical process are proposed as an alternate for the natural humic substances. (Du Jardin 2012; Ute Albrecht, 2019). There are 2 derivatives of humic acid which are known as plant derived humic acids PDHA and Coal derived humic acids CDHA (Khan et al., 2016).\r\nHumic acid is an environmental product since it is obtained through decomposition of organic matter, and aid in plant growth by chelation of unavailable nutrients in the soil, their uptake and buffering pH (Mackowiak et al., 2001). The polyanionic nature of the humic substances results in increased soil cationic exchange capacity which aid in the nutrient uptake through roots, Biological, physical, and physiochemical attributes of soil. \r\nSeaweed extracts: The seaweed extracts are used for agricultural practices for over thousands of years (Calvo et al., 2014) and has recognized to be used as a Bio-stimulant in 1950’s. the seaweed extracts are reported to act as chelators, which improves the utilization of and uptake to mineral nutrients by plants provides aeration which stimulates the root growth. (Milton 1964). Majority of the commercial seaweed extracts are prepared from brown seaweeds, including Ascophyllum nodosum, Fucus, Laminaria, Sargassum, and Turbinaria spp (Hong et al., 2007; Sharma et al., 2012).\r\nThe seaweed extracts also provides the plants with required resistance to withstand against both biotic and abiotic stresses. (Zhang et al., 2016). The seaweed extracts come in various forms like powder and liquid form based on the mode of extraction. (Battacharyya et al.,2015). The commercial extract was manufactured by using the methods which includes water, acids, alkalis as extractants, these are used either by heating or without it, and physical disruption of seaweed using low temperature milling and high pressure (Herve and Rouillier 1977; Stirk and van Staden 2006; Craigie 2011). \r\nThe seaweed extract is in the form of liquid, and it is applied to the plants along with the fertilizers and micronutrients (Milton 1862, Craigie 2011). If available in large quantities (seaweed extracts) can be applied with irrigation. The mixture of seaweed extracts may vary according to the time or season of collection and the method or extractants used for the process of extraction (Khan et al., 2009; Rioux et al., 2009; Sharma et al., 2011; Shekhar et al., 2011). Seaweed extracts have numerous effects on plant metabolism (Khan et al., 2009).\r\n (Jannin et al., 2013) studied the effect of application of the seaweed extract on gene expression in genotypes of Brassica Napus plant. It was found that 1000 genes were showing differential gene expression in microarray analysis. Out of 1000 genes, most affected gene were related to photosynthesis, cell metabolism, sulfur metabolism, nitrogen metabolism and response to stress tolerance.\r\nThe seaweed extracts are observed to alleviate the suffering of plant caused by the abiotic stresses like Drought, salinity, and extreme temperatures (Nabati et al.,1994; Zhang and Erwin 2004; Mancuso et al., 2006; Khan et al.,2009; Craig et al., 2011; Calvo et al., 2014). Seaweed extracts contain a wide range of plant hormones like auxins, gibberellins, Cytokinin’s, abscisic acid, salicylic acid (Khan et al., 2009; Craigie 2011). The seaweed brown algae have been used for the agricultural purposes since 13th century without any complications (Temple and Bomke, 1988).\r\nProtein Hydrolysates: The protein hydrolysates are derived from sources like crop residues, animal wastes, and through industrial byproducts like collagen, leather, and epithelial tissues. These protein hydrolysates consist of amino acid and peptides that are acquired through Agro-chemical processes involving the sources. There is a special case derivative of amino acids called as “Glycine betaine” which is known to possess the ability to induce resistance in plants to the stress caused by the heavy metals (Chen and Murata, 2011; du Jardin, 2015; Ute Albrecht, 2019).\r\nProtein hydrolysates affect the metabolisms of the crop indirectly by increasing the growth and productivity through increased soil fertility, microbial biomass, soil respiration, and soil microbial activity. The special case amino acids and peptides are considered to induce the available soil nutrient uptake through roots with greater rate (Calvo et al.,2014; Ute Albrecht, 2019).\r\nProtein hydrolysates can alter the nitrogen uptake and its assimilation through roots by altering the gene structure and regulating the nitrogen assimilation caused by the enzymes of TCA (tricarboxylic acid) cycle. Some protein hydrolysates possess chelating effects like Proline which helps in the acquisition and transportation of micro-nutrients inside the plant and protects them against stress caused by the heavy metals (Du Jardin, 2015; Ute Albrecht, 2019; du Jardin, 2012).\r\nProline and glycine are well known protectants which enhances the natural resistance in the plants against environmental stresses like drought, salinity, etc. the protein hydrolysates of animal origin are deemed as harmless, the bioassay tests involving plants and yeast as test subjects reported that there was no trace of toxicity involving genetic, ecological, and phytological origins (Corte et al.,2014).\r\nChitosan’s: Chitosan’s are the polymers or oligomers that are used in the food, cosmetics, medicine and established their status recently in Agriculture. they possess the ability to bind to a receptor which is held accountable for the activation of plant defenses (Disper Bio-stimlants). These compounds have been classified as Natural Agro-chemicals as they are useful in seed coating, fruit and vegetable preservation, growth promoter, and fungicide (Freepons 1997; Assis and Pessoa, 2004; Allan and Hadwiger 1979; Burrows et al., 2007; Velasquez et al., 2012).\r\nChitosan’s are the derived form of Chitin which are produced both industrially and naturally. They come in various sizes based up on their field of application. Other than binding to the defense receptors, these polycationic compounds also binds to DNA, plasma membrane and cell wall constituents (Du Jardin, 2015; El Hadrami et al., 2010; Hadwiger, 2013; Katiyar et al., 2015; Yin et al., 2010).\r\nThe use of chitosan’s in recent agricultural works has increased drastically due to their offered protection against the fungal pathogens and induced tolerance to abiotic stress factors like, cold, heat, drought, salinity, etc. These compounds are obtained through extraction processes involving fungal cell wall, prawn outer part or crab shell. chitosan’s induces stomatal closing through Abscisic acid mechanism (Iriti et al., 2009; du Jardin, 2015).\r\n(Darren 2019), These compounds not only help in the stress tolerance and enhancing plants own defense mechanism, but also obviously aid in pest tolerance, inhibition of micro-organisms growth, and environment friendly due to its microbial degradation and non-toxic nature. Hence, its role in agriculture is considered as green production. Chitosan’s is known as soil conditioners, because their addition in soil can increase the beneficial bacteria like actinomycetes and remove harmful bacteria like fusarium from the soil. \r\nClassification Based on Micro-organisms\r\nBeneficial Fungi: Fungi which possess the activity of bio-stimulants belongs to a group called symbiotic fungi. These symbiotic fungi intertwine with the plant in many ways from mutualism to parasitism (Behie and Bidochka, 2014). Mycorrhizal fungi maintain symbiosis in over 90% of the plants available in nature, and in these fungal forms the Arbuscule-Forming Mycorrhiza (AMF) is widely spread and maintains association with both agricultural and horticultural crops,This AMF comes under the category of endo-mycorrhiza(Bonfante and Genre, 2010; Behie and Bidochka, 2014; Du Jardin 2015). The AMF not only helps in nutrient uptake, but also aid in the phosphorous uptake especially in phosphorous deficit soils (Ute Albrecht, 2019).\r\nThe fungi belonging to the species Glomeromycota forms a Branche-tree like structure called abuscules by infiltrating the root zone of a plant, thus allows the increased nutrient uptake by extending the roots deep into the soil. Some endophytic fungi like Trichoderma spp. and Sebacinales had the ability to completes a portion of their life cycle independent on the host, forms the root structure deeply in a way to enhance the nutrient uptake by the host and are well distinguished from mycorrhizal fungi (Bonfante and Genre, 2010; Behie and Bidochka, 2014; Du Jardin 2015). \r\nRecent studies have proven that the hyphal network of the plants not only establishes a symbiotic relationship between fungi and plants but also interconnects a plant with another individual plant in their vicinity. This provides significant ecological evidence that symbiotic fungi contribute for the interplant signaling (Johnson and Gilbert, 2015; Simard et al., 2012; Du Jardin 2015).\r\nBeneficial Bacteria: Unlike beneficial fungi, the beneficial bacteria do not restrict its relationship with plants with mutualism and parasitism, in fact they use every possible opportunity to interact with the plant. (Ahmad et al.,2008).The Bacteria which are isolated from soil, water, plants, compost, manures, and plant residues came to known as Microbial inoculants (Berg 2009; Dodd and Ruiz-Lozano 2012; Vessey 2003;).\r\nThe beneficial bacterial are bio-control microorganisms (BCMs) which are today known as “Bio-stimulant Microorganisms” helps in the plant growth and offer protection to them right from seeding stage to crop maturity against harmful pathogens. The bacterial can not only travel through soil but also transmitted vertically through seed (Duanyin et al., 2015; Adriano, et al., 2014). \r\n Based on their utilization in agriculture as bio-stimulants they can be categorized into 1.) mutualistic Rhizobium: - they are commercial Bio-stimulants as they can participate in Nutrient assimilation through plants. These rhizobium symbiosed bio-stimulants are often seen in the textbooks of even elementary standards due to their extensive agricultural usage (Du Jardin 2015; Ahmad et al., 2008; Babalola, 2010; Berendsen et al., 2012; Berg et al., 2014; Bhattacharyya and Jha 2012; Gaiero et al., 2013; Philippot et al., 2013; Vacheron et al., 2013).\r\n2.) Rhizospheric PGRs: - often known as “Plant growth promoting rhizobacteria” is one of the main Beneficial bacteria formulations, which possess the capacity to increase the mineral uptake, root growth, NUE, morphogenesis, response to Biotic and Abiotic stresses within the plants intermediate locations known as rhizosphere and rhizoplane (Du Jardin 2015; Duanyin et al., 2015; Nguyen, 2014).\r\nApplications in wheat: -\r\nHumic substances in wheat: The humic acid plays an important role in wheat production. It increases the major attributes in the wheat crop like, retention in fertilizer usage, nutrient uptake, high yield, root vitality, and improved seed germination percentage. (Anwar et al., 2016). Humic substances have the capacity of single superphosphate to provide phosphorous to the plant when combined with the low-concentrated phosphate rock. This single superphosphate (SSP) provides plant with high nutritional uptake value, and this value can be compared to the combination of Humic acid and Araxa phosphate rock. This combination results in good wheat growth (Rosa et al., 2018).\r\n (Anwar et al., 2016) Humic acid can be applied solely or with nitrogen and phosphorous (NP) fertilizers in case of rainfed conditions to ensure optimal production. The humic acid has limited effect on wheat attributes in comparison with the nitrogen fertilizers applied to the soil. For the organic wheat cultivation, Humic acid application is commendable, and is also effective against drought stress. Application of humic acid @ 2% concentration is proven to effectively increase the grain yield by 26% and straw yield by 23.8% and can also be increased by increasing the rate of application of humic acid by 15 kg/ha and nitrogen by 150 kg/ha.\r\nSeaweed extracts in wheat: When seaweed applied, wheat crop stimulates various growth parameters during the early stages of the crop and decreases the senescence, increase the metabolism rate, and performs assimilates redistribution during the reproductive stages of crop development. To optimize these effects, the seaweed concentrate known as Kelp66 is applied to the crop at early vegetative stage and should be applied at correct concentration. If applied at low concentration it doesn’t stimulate growth, whereas when applied high concentration the crop should good growth but does not provide optimum kernel yield. (Nelson and Staden 1986).\r\nChitosan’s in wheat: Defang Zeng, Xinrong Luo conducted experiment in wheat crop under drought stress condition. The application of chitosan coating to the seed increases the Rate of germination, length of the root, wet weight, root activity and impacted some physiological indices like MDA (malondialdehyde). The chitosan application increases the antioxidant activity thereby decreasing the MDA content to reduce the damage caused by drought stress and improve seedling growth. The chitosan’s also increases the chlorophyll content which is responsible for the photosynthetic activity and results a spike of 13.6% in yield when compared to CK applied seeds, (Zeng and Luo 2012).\r\nProtein hydrolysates: The foliar application of chicken feather protein hydrolysates (CFPH acquired through alkaline hydrolysis process) in wheat seeds has proven to increase the physiological activity, biochemical activity and stimulate the root length, shoot length, dry weight of wheat seedlings. In addition to these parameters, a spike in photosynthetic pigment content is also observed. From these we can conclude that chicken feather protein hydrolysates can be used as a Bio-stimulants which yields good results (Genc and Atici 2019).\r\nApplications in Rice: \r\nHumic substances in Rice: The humic acid treatment results in the larger root, increased root weight and good shoot growth in the early phases of crop growth. The treatment of humic acid given during the metaphase increases the number of grains per head and high percentage of ripened grains. The treatment also markedly increases the respiration rate in paddy root irrespective of growing period. Furthermore, application in early phase of growth yield increased nutrient uptake in stub whereas, in later phase there is a significant difference (Isao and Jinya 1988). \r\nSeaweeds extracts in rice: Rice is the most staple crop in India. India has the largest land to produce rice (say approx. 44 million hectares) next to China. The most popularly used bio-stimulant in rice is seaweed extract liquids, as they show promising results over the recommended dose of fertilizer. The use of seaweed Bio-stimulants increases the panicle height, panicle weight, grains per panicle, grain yield and harvest index. \r\nThe seaweed extracted Bio-stimulants also help in the growth of meristematic, translocation of photosynthates, enzyme activation, cell elongation and cell stability (Arun et al., 2019; Pramanick et al., 2013). The increase in yield is mainly due to the efficient utilization of nutrients present in the soil, induced nutrients through roots and foliar application of seaweed extract liquid. There is an evident recording of higher yield, improved nitrogen, total soluble solids and rise in Oryzein when application is done at 30- & 60-day interval (Haider et al., 2012).\r\nChitosan’s in rice: The applications of 0.1% chitosan solution in non-fertilized soil before plantation yield in increasing shoot growth, plant height and number of leaves which is not observed in fertilized soil(Chibuet al., 2002). The chitosan application affects the physical properties of the rice like- the rice noodles when subjected to chitosan solution, the moisture remains unaffected whereas the pH and the white color of the texture is decreased. Storing after application at 30°C for 5days resulted in an increase in the hardness, gumminess and decrease in the cohesiveness, and springiness of rice flour gel (Klinmalai et al., 2017).\r\nApplications in Maize: \r\nHumic substances in maize: Cultivation of maize with Humic acids redounded in advanced fresh weight of roots than in undressed shops (control). Shops treated with Humic acids showed increased number, periphery, and length of roots. Cytoskeleton proteins, similar as tubulin (tubulin beta- chain) were over- regulated in the sludge roots treated with Humic acids. Lower situations of tubulin protein result in a hypersensitiveness response at high salinity. hence, cytoskeleton proteins may be important in guarding the factory against swab stress. Protein folding- related proteins were only detected in maize roots treated with Humic acids; these include proteins similar as calnexin, calreticulin and endoplasmin- resembling protein (Rosane et al., 2019).\r\nChitosan’s in maize: (Tawaha et al., 2018): conducted two experiments in maize crop; 1. To observe the effects of Chitosan’s on two varieties of maize to relieve the salinity stress and 2. To observe how different kinds of Chitosan’s affects the maize crop under salinity stress. At the end of the experiment, he concluded that the salinity stress shows negative effect on the root and shoot growth by decreasing the weight of root and shoot, reducing plant height and leaf size in both varieties of the maize. Foliar application of Chitosan’s has resulted in better growth of plants in non-salinity conditions and alleviated the severe effects of maize grown in saline conditions. It’s also concluded that transpiration rate is affected by neither salinity nor Chitosan application.\r\n(Sharma et al., 2020), the seed treatment and foliar application of Chitosan nano fertilizer comprising of copper and salicylic acid influences increasing the source activity in maize development. Seed treatment induces high seed vigor, while the foliar application with nano fertilizer increases Antioxidant enzyme activity and amplify the chlorophyll content in leaves. In the internode region the Sucrose translocation is induced by foliar application which allows to study the enhanced mobilization of nutrient towards growing cob.\r\nSeaweed extracts in maize: Foliar application of 20% Seaweed extract (Sargassum crassifolium) can enhance the vegetative growth of maize seedlings. The characteristics that are recorded to be improved are leaf area, plant height and dry matter accumulation (Sutharshan et al., 2017). Foliar application of seaweed extract (Goemar GA14) to maize seedlings increases the fresh matter production by 15 to 20% over control. This yields a noticeable result due to increased root and stem mas per plant. After two weeks of spraying there is less significant difference in stomatal resistance and carbon assimilation rate. However, the physiological mechanism of this Goemar GA14 and its mode of action in plants have not yet elucidated (Jeannin et al., 1991).\r\nProblems: Two of the larger challenges facing the trade are: Associate unsure restrictive atmosphere in some geographies and market saturation in others. There has been a boom in investment and interest during this house in some countries and as a result there\'s an intense competition for the similar markets. The major problems faced by the Bio-stimulants products in India: as we know that the farmers of Indian nation are poor and can merely afford its pricing. So, not many of the farmers are up for buying the products. hence, they stick to the old, regional, and religious techniques to grow the crop. \r\n','Addagarla Bhanu Prakash, Gowreddy Sairam Reddy, Nadendla Harsha Vardhan, Sreemoy Bhattacharyya and Kanak Bhati (2022). Bio-Stimulants- An Overview. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 14(2): 850-856.'),(4966,'125','Seed Priming to Ensure Better Crop Stand of Chrysanthemum (Chrysanthemum coronarium)','Poonam Dahiya, Manpreet Kaur, S.K. Sehrawat, Sunita Verma and Ajay Verma*','147 Seed Priming to Ensure Better Crop Stand of Chrysanthemum Chrysanthemum coronarium Ajay Verma.pdf','',1,'Germination or seed quality of Chrysanthemum is a crucial feature affecting seedling survival and establishment whilst seeded directly in the field. Annual chrysanthemum is highly remunerative and short duration flower crop, which has problems like poor seed germination, low seed vigour and short storage life. An effort was made to study the effect of priming on seed quality as four different seeds collected from Horticulture farm, Department of Horticulture were subjected to different priming treatments. The priming treatments composed of 0.1 and 1% KNO3, 2 and 4% CaCl2, 100, 200 and 300ppm GA3, control and hydration. Of the treatments evaluated for seed quality in fresh seeds, Gen1T4 performed significantly better as compared to other treatments. It was observed that priming with 0.5% KNO3 in fresh seeds showed significant improvement in seed quality parameters. Priming treatments were more effective in improving the seed quality and viability for storage.','Annual chrysanthemum, priming, CaCl2, KNO3, GA3, seed quality','Results revealed that in primed seeds enhanced the standard germination, viability percentage, shoot and root length, dry weight, vigour index, and enzyme activity (dehydrogenase, catalase, peroxidase and superoixidedimutase) declined significantly. All the seed genotypes were found significantly different for vigour and viability tests.','INTRODUCTION \r\nSeed priming ensures increased and uniform germination by reducing the imbibition time, increase the enzyme activation, enhance metabolite production, repairing the damaged DNA, and regulating osmosis. Number of reports on seed priming towards improved seed germination, seedling emergence, stand establishment, crop growth, nodulation, and productivity in various crop species viz., rice , wheat , pulses, okra , Chinese cabbage , sunflower , and melons were observed in literature (Damalas et al., 2019; Mirmazloum et al., 2020). Seed priming induces antioxidant activity and storage protein solubelization and minimizes lipid per oxidation (Dorajeerao and Mokashi, 2020). In recent years many tactics have been engaged to accelerate the speed of germination and to improve seedling uniformity (Vishvanathan et al., 2020). Pre sowing treatment of seed priming has been proven as an effective strategy to ensure uniform emergence at rapid, as well as for recuperating seed vigour, viability, and seedling crop stand even under the hostile situation (Sisodia et al., 2018; Raj and Raj, 2019). Annual chrysanthemum, botanically known as Chrysanthemum coronarium L., annual herbaceous plant with aromatic flavor, popularly known as garland chrysanthemum. The plants are hardy, vigorous and relatively of short duration besides provided attractive flowers in various shades of yellow and white having single or double forms (Waqas et al., 2019). Commercially grown in various parts of India for production of loose flowers to be used alone or in combination with marigold and other flowers for making garlands as well as for religious offerings (Mustafa et al., 2017). There are various treatments with chemicals like GA3, Calcium chloride and KNO3, are found beneficial to increase the storage life of the seeds (Jena and Mohanty 2019). The priming treatments hydrate the seed to a point where germination process begins. Hence it’s important to stimulate attention towards the cost-effective strategies that improve crop growth and quality resulting in improved gross returns to the farming community.\r\nMATERIALS AND METHODS\r\nThe seed material for the present investigation was collected from Horticulture farm, Department of Horticulture CCS Haryana Agricultural University Hisar. The present study was carried out on annual chrysanthemum seeds of four lines which were harvested during April 2018-19. The harvested seeds of Genotype-1 (White double), Genotype-2(Yellow semi double) , Genotype-3 (White semi double) and Genotype-4(Yellow double) were exposed to priming treatments for 6 hours along with control treatment as hydro priming, Calcium Chloride CaCl2@2%, 4%, Potassium Nitrate KNO3@ 0.5%, 1.0% and Gibberellic acid GA3@ 100, 200, 300 ppm followed by dehydration at room temperature. Data were recorded for 15 days on a daily basis for emergence with subsequent seedling assessment protocol as given in the handbook of the Association of Official Seed Analysts (Adinde et al., 2020). Ultimate germination percentage was calculated at the end of 15th day. Sufficient number of seeds from different seed genotypes were placed over filter paper soaked in solution of the desired treatment in a beaker and kept it at room temperature. The seeds were allowed to imbibe solution for 6 h in all the treatments. After the completion of treatment period, the seeds were dehydrated at room temperature. Standard Germination Test (%), Shoot length (cm), Root Length (cm), Seedling Dry Weight Seedling vigour index I and II, Electrical conductivity test (EC) (ds/cm/seed), Dehydrogenase activity (DHA) test, Peroxidase Activity, Catalase Activity, Superoxide dismutase activity, Speed of emergence index, Seedling establishment, Mean emergence time etc. Reputed statistical software SAS version 9.3 along with JMP 9 was exploited for analysis and graphical presentations.\r\nRESULTS AND DISCUSSION\r\nStandard germination was better for treatment Gen1T4 as compared to all other treatments. Shoot length and root length of fresh annual chrysanthemum seeds observed that treatment Gen1T4 was highly significant as compare to all other treatments. Seedling dry weight was more for treatment Gen1T4 as compare to all other treatments. This may be because the damage to membrane enzyme, proteins and nucleic acids and such degenerative changes are resulted in the complete disorganization of cell membrane and organelle (Mangena, 2019). Vigour index was found more in the treatment Gen1T4 compared to all other treatments. Seed lots were also found to differ significantly for vigour indices. This showed that it was just not the standard germination to determine the planting value of a seed lot but more importantly it was determined that how vigorous the seedling would emerge out of a viable seed. Electrical conductivity was highly significant of treatment Gen1T1 was highly significant as compare to all other genotypes. This might be due to destructive changes in cellular membrane system resulting in more leakage of organic solutes (free sugars, fatty acids and amino acids) reported by Mustafa et al 2017. Enzymes activities i.e. catalase, peroxidase, dehydrogenase and superoxidedimutase were affected by different storage and treatment conditions. Treatment Gen1T4 was highly significant as compare to all other treatments as the better performance might be priming with KNO3 can lead to further growth of primed seedlings and because of damage to membrane system could be repair and protected against such changes by invigouration treatments (Sidana et al., 2019). \r\nVariability among genotypes for morphological traits. Good amount of variability had been observed for seedling emergence and germination percentage among the considered treatments as depicted by in Fig. 1. Around the circle in Radar chart 36 treatments were depicted and the values for the traits for a particular treatment were depicted by the point’s concentric circles (Bagheri et al., 2019). 50 to 65% seedling emergence percentage and 90 to 63 germination percentage observed. Root length values were depicted by inner circle as values varied from 2 to 4 in Fig. Followed by the circle for Shoot length trait and 5.6 to 7.2 values were expressed in Fig. Emergence time and Seedling length circles cross each other and 7 to 14 observed for seedling length whereas 8 to 12 achieved by Emergence time among treatments. Last and outer circle for Vigour index 2 showed 8 to 17 values in chart. Enzyme activities had been illustrated in Fig. 3 for Electrical conductivity, catalase, peroxidase, along with seedling dry weight and speed of emergence. Superoxidase expressed by inner most circles as marginal variation expressed by treatments. Next denoted by seedling dry weight 0.05 to 0.25 followed the circle for dehydrogenase activity as values ranged from 0.25 to 0.45. Range from 0.24 to 0.46 seen for electrical conductivity. The behaviour of catalase activity (0.34 to 0.54) portrayed similar to variability in peroxidase(0.35 to 0.75), speed of emergence (0.45 to 0.96) mentioned by Khan et al. (2021).\r\nBiplot analysis. Results of the principal component analysis (PC) of traits indicated that the first two components were important in explaining the variation among treatments and cumulatively accounted for 84.1 % of the total variation (Table 1). The first principal component (PC) accounted for 73.5% of the total variation. It illustrated the variations in Vigour index 1, Vigour index 2, Catalase activity Peroxidase Dehydrogenase activity Speed of emergence contributed more. Second Principal component augmented by 10.6% to the remaining variation traits Seedling emergence percentage Root length Shoot length Germination percentage were major contributors. Out of the 15 traits evaluated, 08 were found to contribute most to the first two principal components and were therefore considered most discriminate to summarize variations among the treatments. Clustering pattern. Five clusters of traits were evident in Biplot graphical representation as one cluster in first quadrant, two clusters in adjacent quadrant, one in each opposite quadrants (Fig. 4). Highly significant direct correlation had been maintained by enzyme activities with seedling length, seedling drying weight, speed of \r\nemergence traits whereas germination percentage expressed tight association with Root length, shoot length, seedling emergence percentage. Superoxididinutase associated with electrical conductivity while emergence percentage placed separately. \r\n \r\nPositive correlation has been observed between vigour index 1 with vigor index2 and both uncorrelated with Emergence as observed at opposite end of rays in biplot (Fig. 5). Superoxididemutase strongly associated with electrical conductivity whereas no correlation with measures Germination percentage, Seedling emergence percentage, root length, shoot length grouped together. Group of Seedling length, seedling dry weight, dehydrogenase activity, Speed of emergence, Peroxidase, Catalase activity exhibited strong correlation among themselves and moderate relation with Vigor indexes. This group of traits also showed right angles with Germination percentage, Seedling emergence percentage, root length, shoot length measures. Treatment having long length of the vector viz. Gen2T9, Gen4T9, Gen4T7, Gen2T3, Gen1T4, Gen1T5, Gen1T6, Gen7T8 have higher or extreme values for one or more traits. \r\nHierarchical Multivariate analysis. Hierarchical clustering techniques have long been the most popular clustering method with Ward’s method and average linkage probably being the best available. Only four clusters of studied treatments had been observed as marked by different colors in clustering pattern as well as by clustering handle (Fig. 6). Small groups of treatments (Gen1T9, Gen2T9, Gen3T9, Gen4T9) placed with Gen1T4, Gen1T5, Gen1T6, Gen2T5, Gen3T5 in between of two large size clustered in first and separated by fourth cluster of remaining treatments. Two dimensional clustering had been also carried out to group the traits as per variations observed in treatments combinations during field evaluation (Fig. 7). Catalase activity devided traits in two groups consisting of Emergence time, eclectrical conductvity, Superoxidedimutase activity, seedling length, seedling dry weight and second group of Peroxidase, Speed of emergence, Dehydrogenase activity, vigour index 1, vigour index 2, seedling emergence percentage, Germination percentage, shoot length, Root length.\r\n','Poonam Dahiya, Manpreet Kaur, S.K. Sehrawat, Sunita Verma and Ajay Verma (2022). Seed Priming to Ensure Better Crop Stand of Chrysanthemum (Chrysanthemum coronarium). Biological Forum – An International Journal, 14(2): 857-862.'),(4967,'125','Phenotypic Screening of Segregating Population for Bacterial Blight Resistance in Rice Variety Pratikshya (Oryza sativa)','M. Pradhan*, D.N. Bastia, K. C. Samal and M.K. Mishra','148 Phenotypic Screening of Segregating Population for Bacterial Blight Resistance in Rice Variety Pratikshya _Oryza sativa M. Pradhan.pdf','',1,'Pratikshya is a Mid-late duration popular rice variety released by Odisha University of Agriculture and Technology (OUAT), Odisha, India. However, it is vulnerable to bacterial leaf blight (BLB) infection which is an endemic disease in many rice-growing areas of Odisha. The present experiment was carried out during the Kharif season, 2019 at the Rice Research Station, College of Agriculture, Odisha University of Agriculture and Technology, Bhubaneswar. Screening of 1598 plants of BC2F2 segregating population derived from Pratikshya × Swarna MAS was conducted against bacterial blight at field level through clip inoculation method at maximum tillering stage. Out of 1598 plants, 1412 plants were found to be resistant, while 186 plants showed susceptibility reaction. The above values showed the goodness of fit with an expected ratio of 55:9. The chi-square value for the expected ratio was found to be non-significant at a 1% level of significance. This ratio indicated the presence of three resistance genes in the plant of the BC2F2 segregating population. This investigation is helpful for screening and selection of bacterial leaf blight resistant versions of Pratikshya in marker-assisted pyramided generations by using Xoo inoculum.','Oryza sativa, Bacterial leaf blight, Xanthomonas oryzae pv. oryzae, Leafclip inoculation method','Phenotypic data based on the leaf clip inoculation method could not differentiate the plants having single resistant genes, two resistant genes, or all three resistant genes. It only separates the whole population into resistance and susceptible classes. Selected resistant plants were utilized for molecular studies in the BC2F3 population to trace the presence of a gene(s) (xa5, xa13, and Xa21) individually or in combinations. ','INTRODUCTION\r\nRice is the oldest cereal grain in the world. “Rice is life” for more than half of humanity. It has shaped the culture, diets, and economy of millions of people (Gnanamanickam et al., 2009). In the Asian subcontinent, 90 percent of the world’s rice is grown and consumed. Rice accounts for a significant contribution to the total food grain production in India. Rice is a staple food crop for more than half of the world’s population. In the Indian subcontinent more than a quarter of the cultivated area is under rice cultivation. India has 43.78 million hectares of area under cultivation and 121.46 million tonnes of production with average productivity of 2.55 tonnes per hectare from 2019-20 (Ministry of Agriculture and Farmer welfare). In Odisha, about 69% of the cultivated area comes under rice cropping,and is the major crop, covering about 63% of the total area under food Grains. The total area covering rice in Odisha is 3.9 million hectares, production is 9.63 million tonnes and productivity is 2.45 tonnes/ha in 2019-20 (Odisha Agricultural statistics, 2020).\r\nPlant diseases play a role as one of the major limitations in rice cultivation. Among all the rice infesting diseases, bacterial leaf blight is an important disease. Depending upon the stage of the crop, cultivar susceptibility, and environmental conditions, bacterial leaf blight can cause severe yield losses of up to 50% (Mew, 1987). No effective chemical control measures have been found against bacterial blight (Devadath 1989), so the use of resistant varieties is the only way to protect the crop from bacterial blight.\r\nMarker-assisted selection (MAS) has come into sight as a new field in Plant Breeding i.e., gene pyramiding for the advancement of broad-spectrum resistance abilities. Maximum no. of the presently cultivated popular Indian rice cultivars are facing problems due to various biotic and abiotic stresses. Pratikshya is a ruling rice variety of Odisha, India. However, it is susceptible to bacterial leaf blight (BLB) infection. In this circumstance, for attaining durable resistance it is essential to pyramid multiple genes. The present study has been undertaken to determine the level of resistance to bacterial leaf blight of rice induced by Xanthomonas oryzae pv. oryzae (Xoo) inocula to identify plants resistant to bacterial leaf blight in BC2F2 segregating population obtained from gene pyramiding of Pratikshya × Swarna MAS.\r\nMATERIALS AND METHODS\r\nExperimental materials are composed of two varieties of rice viz., Pratikshya and Swarna MAS. These two varieties were used to develop the backcross population (BC2F2 population) consisting of 1598 plants. Previously identified resistant parent ‘Swarna MAS’ was used as donor parent to transfer bacterial leaf blight resistance carrying xa5, xa13, and Xa21 genes to susceptible parent Pratikshya. Twenty-one days old seedlings were transplanted with a spacing of 20 × 20 cm. The recommended packages of practices were followed to raise a healthy crop.\r\nBacterial Culture and inoculation. The isolates of Xanthomonas oryzae pv. oryzae (Xoo) was procured from Crop Protection Division, National Rice Research Institute, Cuttack. From the stock culture, the isolate was sub-cultured and maintained at 4°C for further use. On slants of Wakimoto’s medium for 3 days at 30°C cultures were grown (Table 1). By suspending the bacterial mass in sterilized distilled water inoculum was prepared and diluted to a concentration of about 109 cells/ml. The freshly prepared inoculum was utilized for inoculation.\r\nThe leaf clip inoculation method developed at the AllIndia Coordinated Rice Improvement Project (AICRIP) was implemented at the maximum tillering stage of the screening population (Kauffman et al., 1973). The top of the fresh leaves of each plant was cut with a sterilized scissor dipped in freshly prepared bacterial solution as presented in Fig. 1 (A) early in the morning. Observations were noted 14-21 days after inoculation by the percentage of diseased leaf area (DLA) followed by the standard evaluation system (SES, IRRI, 2013). Noor et al. (2021) utilized followed this method for the screening of black rice races of Manipur for blight resistance. Scoring of the disease was done as shown in Table 2.\r\nRESULT AND DISCUSSION\r\nThe bacterial leaf blight of rice is the most destructive affliction of cultivated rice. It is also a destructive disease in South and Southeast Asia. Depending on the severity of the infection, the loss may be as high as 50-80% (Khus, 1989). To minimize the severe attack and yield loss, some management strategies are needed \r\nthrough the development of BLB-resistant cultivars. However, none of the modern cultivars are completely resistant to this disease. Host plant resistance offers the most effective, economical, and environmentally safe option for the management of bacterial leaf blight (Khush et al., 1989). \r\nTo date, 46 bacterial leaf blight resistance genes have been identified and some of them have been incorporated into the modern popular high yielding varieties of rice (Pradhan et al., 2015; Chen et al., 2020; Chukwu et al., 2019; Hsu et al., 2020). In the present study, the segregating backcross population has been evaluated for the presence of resistance genes in the plants. Out of 1598 plants, 1412 plants were found resistant 186 were susceptible. Bacterial leaf blight scores 1, 3, and 5 were considered as a resistant class while those having scores 7 and 9 with disease severity very much nearer to recurrent parent were considered as a susceptible class. These values indicated goodness of fit with an expected ratio of 55:9. The chi-square value for the expected value was obtained as non-significant at a 1% level of significance of probability (Table 3). This ratio indicated the presence of three resistance genes in the plant of the BC2F2 population. This can be explained by considering that bacterial blight resistance is governed by three genes xa5, xa13, and Xa21. So, the genotype and phenotype of a parent, F1, and BC2F2 would be as follows:\r\nPhenotypic data based on the leaf clip inoculation method separates the whole population into resistance and susceptible classes. Based on disease severity and similarity of agronomic characters with recipient parent Pratikshya, thirty-five superior plants were randomly selected from the BC2F2 population.','M. Pradhan, D.N. Bastia, K. C. Samal and M.K. Mishra (2022). Phenotypic Screening of Segregating Population for Bacterial Blight Resistance in Rice Variety Pratikshya (Oryza sativa). Biological Forum – An International Journal, 14(2): 863-866.'),(4968,'125','Comparative Analysis for various Grain Quality Parameters in Bread Wheat Varieties','Elangbam Premabati Devi*, J.M. Patel, L. Netajit Singh, Kajal S. Patel and S.K. Patel','149 Comparative Analysis for Various Grain Quality Parameters in Bread Wheat Varieties Elangbam Premabati Devi.pdf','',1,'The present studies were taken up to see the diversity and comparative analysis among the various thirteen bread wheat varieties based on their different grain quality aspects through advanced statistical approaches. The results revealed that protein content was at average with ranged from 11.12 to14.03%, starch content of 61.43 to 63.45% and for grain yield, ten varieties were noticed with statistically significantly at par in terms of varieties. In phenol test, GW451 variety was noticed with no development of pigmentation but all the varieties having good characteristics with low colour pigmentation value indicates a good chapatti colour. Later on, three cluster groups were generated based on different grain quality parameters where six varieties such as GW322, Lok1, GW173, GW451, HD2864 and HD2932 were generated in cluster I as more homogenous group, cluster II consist of four varieties of GW496, GW366, GW499 and HI1544 and lastly cluster III consist of GW11, MP3288 and DBW110. The results of PCA revealed that grain quality parameters exhibit a wide range of diversity among the wheat varieties. ','Bread wheat, gluten content, grain quality parameters, hardness, principle component analysis, protein content.','From the above findings, it can be concluded that protein content was at average with ranged from 11.12 to14.03%, starch content of 61.43 to 63.45% and for grain yield, all the ten varieties were noticed with statistically significantly at par in terms of varieties. Later on, three cluster groups were generated based on different grain quality parameters where six varieties such as GW322, Lok1, GW173, GW451, HD2864 and HD2932 were generated in cluster I as more homogenous group, cluster II consist of four varieties of GW496, GW366, GW499, HI1544 and lastly cluster III consist of three varieties, GW11, MP3288 and DBW110. The results of PCA revealed that grain quality parameters exhibit a wide range of diversity among the wheat varieties. Thus, the present experimental study will help to understand the utility of wide range of diversity among the wheat varieties and selection of best superior varieties based on these quality parameters. ','INTRODUCTION\r\nWheat (Triticum aestivum L.) is the main cereal crop in Indian situation and during 2020-21, India has made landmark with the total production of 109.52mt and the total average national productivity of 3464kg/ha (ICAR-IIWBR, 2021). Wheat grain can be processed into flour, semolina and other end products like bread, cookies, pastries, pasta, noodles, couscous, etc. and these foods provide about 20% calories and protein source in world’s population. Wheat quality has traditionally been judged on functionality, mostly on gluten content and strength and to a lesser extent, on nutritional value (Marconi and Carcea 2001). Good chapatti qualities are more attracted to consumers and people are willing to pay more for better quality flour. Nowadays the importance of nutritious and nutraceutical food items became highly focussed and great concern by consumers. The essential requirement to attain good quality wheat could be the presence of various kinds of grain quality parameters in an optimum level. The grain quality of wheat is mainly determined by the genetic base, but it may also influence by agroclimatic conditions and management of cultural practices.\r\nThe flour gluten content is a useful indicator of flour quality, so the flour quality is influenced by the nature of the gluten and its various components. The sedimentation value of flour depends on the wheat protein composition and is mostly correlated to the protein content, the wheat hardness and the volume of pan and hearth loaves. A stronger correlation between loaf volume and Zeleny sedimentation volume compared to SDS sedimentation volume could be because of the protein content influencing both the volume and Zeleny value (Shewry and Tatham 2000).\r\nGrain quality is defined by a range of physical and compositional properties. Whole grain quality encompasses the physical characteristics of grain, grain morphology, hardness, protein content, milling yield, test weight and dough handling characteristics are the characters commonly assessed for wheat quality. Therefore, multiple phenotypic characters of wheat such as grain, flour, dough and final products must be assessed to determine an overall quality and best end-use products (Battenfield et al., 2016). But, generally, the genotypic make up of a cultivar is the most important factor for determining wheat grain quality (Souza et al., 1993; Li et al., 2013).\r\nAt the present scenario of climate change, maintenance of grain quality of wheat has become a critical task for human nutrition, end-use functional properties, as well as commodity value. In wheat, physical properties of whole grain such as size and shape influence milling yield and screening losses, which determine the processing efficiency. Milling yield is defined by the amount of flour that can be extracted from grain and it’s strongly dependent on the proportion of endosperm (75-83%) (Hammermeister, 2008) and grain hardness (Hruskova and Svec 2009). Typically for small and shrivelled grains, the higher proportion of bran relative to endosperm produces a lower milling yield (Marshall et al., 1984). Since, test weight (kg/hl) reflects bulk density of grain so the higher test weight infers larger, higher quality grain, whereas lower test weights are associated with either small or pinched kernels or weather damaged grain with high water content. \r\nGrain protein concentration is the net result of independent starch and protein accumulation in the grain (Vos, 1981). However, genetic factors also affect protein concentration of grain, through differences in both ways such as plant nitrogen accumulation and starch-nitrogen transfer efficiency during grain filling stage. Besides, grain protein concentration and composition is an important quality parameter which defines nutritional and end use properties of dough mixing and dough strength, development time, extensibility, breakdown along with loaf volume and ultimately affect the efficiency of bread making process and product quality. Protein content had a significant effect on the functional, pasting, colour and antioxidant properties (Punia et al., 2019). Hard wheat characterized by high protein (gluten) and hardness index are good for making bread and fine cakes. But, soft wheat lowers in protein content and hardness index are primarily used for cookies, crackers and breakfast foods. Therefore, the differences in hardness of grain and the type of end products are related to the gluten content (Marconi and Carcea, 2001). Moreover, the end use functionality of wheat is directly related to the protein content and composition of the grain (Du Cros, 1987). The protein content of 11.5% is minimum quality standard for adequate bread making and chapatti (Hogy and Fangmeier 2008). However, it has been estimated that globally 33% of applied nitrogen fertilization is recovered in harvested grain (Raun and Johnson 1999). Therefore, understanding the effects on gluten properties and end-use quality is important for wheat breeders, growers and end-use processors. Moreover, correlation is a method for determining the relationship between various plant traits and determining which component characters might be used in a breeding programme to boost yield (Kumar et al., 2022), as well as correlation coefficient provides the idea of quality activity and also evaluates the combination of varieties of plant characters. Correlation analysis can be an effective approach for determining the interdependencies among yield and its related component traits. Thus, correlation coefficient is a useful statistical tool in selecting higher yielding crop plants for the wheat breeders (Kumar et al., 2022). Therefore, the present investigations were carried out to find out the comparative analysis among the various bread wheat varieties based on their different aspects of grain quality and also to see the diversity through advanced statistical approaches. \r\nMATERIALS AND METHODS\r\nThe thirteen bread wheat varieties were considered for the comparative studies based on the different physical and chemical grain quality parameters. These thirteen varieties consist of GW499, GW451, GW496, GW322, GW366, GW11, GW173, HI1544, DBW110, MP3288, HD2864, HD2932 and Lok1. The parentage details of these varieties are provided in Table 1. \r\nA. Physical and chemical analysis of wheat grain \r\nThe grain samples of each variety were analysed for different quality parameters at Wheat Quality Laboratory of Wheat Research Station, Sardarkrushinagar Dantiwada Agricultural University, Vijapur, Gujarat. These parameters includes protein content, wet gluten content, dry gluten content, gluten index, test weight, sedimentation value, starch content, moisture content, hardness index, thousand kernel weight, grain appearance score, grain diameter, grain yield and phenol colour test. Three characters of grain viz. size, shape and colour are taken into consideration for scoring of grain appearance. The test weight was measured using indigenous test weight instrument while 1000 grain weight was determined in electronic seed \r\ncounter followed by weighing them and expressed the result in grams. The InfratecTM1241 (FOSS) instrument determine protein content, starch content, sedimentation value, moisture content using near infrared transmittance technology under the wavelength range of 570-1050nm. The Glutomatic system (Perten) was used for determining the gluten content and gluten strength by gluten index (GI). A Perten SKCS4100 (Single Seed Kernel Characterization System) instrument was used to measure the hardness of kernel and grain diameter. Lastly, phenol colour test was examined for each of variety in 1% phenol solution and recorded the colour development. \r\nB. Statistical analysis\r\nThe data were analysed for correlation in between all pairs of grain quality parameters along with grain yield of 13 wheat varieties. Later, data were subjected to multivariate analysis by using R studio software. Then, results for different grain quality parameters of thirteen varieties were subjected to analyse with basic multivariate data reduction statistical technique such as principle component analysis (PCA). Cluster analysis was also generated to see the relation of varieties based on their grain quality data. Accordingly, Dendogram for all the thirteen varieties were constructed by following Squared Euclidean distance method (Sultana et al., 2018) and KMEANS analysis method was used to analyze the cluster distance among wheat varieties. \r\nRESULTS AND DISCUSSION \r\nA. Physical and chemical analysis of wheat grain \r\nThe physical and chemical characteristics of grain samples of thirteen bread wheat varieties are provided in Table 3. The protein content was found to be in the range of 11.12 to14.03% but among the thirteen varieties there were non-significant differences for protein content. Six varieties such as GW499, GW173, GW11, HD2932, MP3288 and DBW110 were recorded having protein content of above 12%. Similarly, the results of moisture content, wet gluten, dry gluten and sedimentation value were non-significant differences among the thirteen bread wheat varieties. The moisture content of all the samples of bread wheat varieties were observed ranging from 9.22 to 10.05%. The result of starch content has depicted that 9 varieties has significantly at par ranging from 61.43 to 63.45% followed by varieties DBW110, GW11 and MP3288 with starch content ranged from 60.35 to 61.00% as shown in Table 3. Wheat varieties GW322 have maximum hardness index (82.25) followed by HI1544 (80.00) while the minimum was reported in GW11 (58.87) and Lok1 (61.13). \r\nFor 1000 grain weight, seven varieties GW499, GW496, GW366, GW451, GW173, HI1544 and Lok1 were statistically at par as provides in Table 3. The result of grain diameter has indicated that all the eleven varieties are statistically at par except two varieties GW11 and HD2864 having least grain diameter of 2.75 and 2.72mm respectively. For gluten index, five varieties GW322, GW451, HD2864, Lok1 and DBW110 recorded with gluten index ranging from 76.79 to 97.97. For grain yield, all the ten varieties were noticed with statistically significantly at par in terms of varieties and years but three varieties HI1544, MP3288 and DBW110 were recorded with least yield ranging from 3200 to 3509kg/ha as provided in Table 3. \r\nIn phenol test, GW451 variety was noticed with no development of pigmentation at all so recorded as zero score as shown in Fig. 4. Four varieties i.e. GW496, GW173, HD2864, and HD2932 were recorded having score of 1-2. While, seven varieties i.e. GW11, GW366, GW322, GW499, Lok1, DBW110 and HI1544 were recorded with score ranged from 5-6 score. But, MP3288 variety was recorded with maximum pigmentation with 7 score. Hence, the result of phenol colour test has depicted that all the varieties having good characteristics with low colour pigmentation value indicates a good chapatti colour.\r\nB. Statistical analysis\r\nThe diversity among the various bread wheat varieties based on the different grain quality parameters was assessed using Dendogram generated by R studio software. The result has depicted that three cluster groups were generated among them where six varieties such as GW322, Lok1, GW173, GW451, HD2864 and HD2932 were generated in cluster I as more homogenous group, cluster II consist of four varieties such as GW496, GW366, GW499 and HI1544 and lastly cluster III consist of GW11, MP3288 and DBW110 as provided in Table 6 and Dendogram in Fig. 1. Among the three clusters groups by the KMEANS method of analysis for cluster height, the maximum cluster distance was found between cluster II and III (1369.69) and cluster I and II exhibited cluster distance of 961.21 followed by cluster I and III (408.71) as depicted in Table 7. The details of cluster height among the group are also graphically plotted in Dendogram plot (Fig. 1). \r\nBased on various grain quality parameters the Principle Component Analysis (PCA) was analyzed by using R studio software. Based on these grain quality parameters the results of PCA revealed a wide range of diversity among the wheat varieties. The Eigen value representing the variance of the principle components and the cumulative percent of the Eigen value indicating percentage contribution to the total variance attributable to each principle component are provided in Fig 3. The PC was used to determine the extent of variation among the varieties. Scree plot explained the percentage variance associated with each principal component obtained by drawing graph between Eigen values and principal component numbers (Fig. 2). \r\nThree characters of grain viz. size, shape and colour are taken into consideration for scoring. Bold grains with attractive shape, amber golden colour and luster of the grain are the main criteria for scoring. It’s score are recorded from 0-10 scale so, the maximum score 10 is awarded for excellent quality (Ram et al., 2018). Thousand grain weight is a useful measure of grain size since it is a function of kernel size and density. It is an important scale in seed quality that influences seed germination, seed vigour, seedling establishment and yield. The electronic counter was used for counting 1000 grain followed by weighing them and expressed the result in grams. Generally bread wheat recorded with a wide range of variability from 22 to 45g of 1000 grain weight (Ram et al., 2018). \r\nAnother parameter i.e. hectoliter weight is a specific volume of grain and is an indication of the bulk density of the grain. It generally determines plumpness of the grain and also known as hectoliter weight (kg/hl). It indicates a rough index for the flour recovery. Immature and shrivelled grains are usually low in hectoliter weight and poor floor yield. The result of hectoliter weight with >78kg/hl are considered as best (Ram et al., 2018).\r\nRegarding the hardness of grain, it is used as grading factor to determine wheat types and to define end product quality. The SKCS 4100 (Single Seed Kernel Characterization System) determine kernel hardness and expressed as an index of -20 to 120. Based on the hardness index, the grains with HI<45 are classified as soft, 45 to 75 as medium hard and >75 as hard (Ram et al., 2018). \r\nMoreover, the moisture content denotes the quantity of water unit per mass of grain and expressed on a percentage basis. Moisture content of 12% is commonly used as a conversion factor for protein content and other tests where the results are affected by moisture content (Ram et al., 2018). It indicated that low moisture content of less than 12% in wheat samples are suitable for storage and less prone to microbial attack. \r\nBesides, protein content is a key specification for wheat and related to processing properties like water absorption and gluten strength. Protein content of grain being primary criteria in determining the bread making quality of wheat. Moreover, variations in both the protein content and composition significantly modify the flour quality for bread making. The protein requirements are >12.0%, 10-12% and <10% for making good quality bread, chapatti and biscuit respectively (Ram et al., 2018). According to result of Makawi et al. (2013), the protein content of wheat flour were reported in the ranged from 9.5 to 12.9%, while the lowest value (9.5%) was observed in Elnelain cultivar and the highest value (12.9%) in Nepta, while Argeen cultivar recorded with 11.3% of protein showing significant difference as compared with the Australian wheat cultivar (12.6%). \r\nDifferences in heritability estimates were identified for six traits (test weight, thousand kernel weight, protein content, plant height, days to anthesis, spikes m2) under different management systems viz. conventional and organic farming. The protein content was found to be lower at the organic farming, so varieties with high quality protein and better nitrogen uptake were recommended for organic farming in order to compensate the relatively low protein content in wheat grain (Osman et al., 2012). Similarly, result of near-infrared hyperspectral imaging has classified western Canadian wheat into different eight commercial groups (Mahesh et al., 2008). Variation in protein content among wheat varieties is due to differences in their genetic makeup as well as differences in environmental and production conditions prevailed during growth stages (Randhawa, 2002). \r\nRegarding the gluten content and gluten index, gluten is the functional component of protein and determines many of the dough and processing characteristics of wheat flour. It is responsible for the elasticity and extensibility characteristics of flour dough. Wet gluten reflects protein content and flour specification required by end users in the food industry (Ram et al., 2018). Curic et al. (2001) reported the range of dry gluten from 8.44 to 11.77% in flour of different wheat varieties and Lin et al. (2003) found the range of dry gluten from 7.0 to 16.7%. As dry gluten contains no water, it can be directly correlated with crude protein, which is a direct indicator of flour strength and bread baking potentialities (Anjum and Walker 2000). Though, wheat based foods are not suitable for people with having wheat intolerance, especially coeliac disease (Sollid, 2000; Wieser and Koehler, 2008; Koehler et al., 2016). The protein and gluten content basically determine the bread making quality of the flour (Rakszegi et al., 2016). Although, it is difficult to make good quality bread wheat if gluten is to be excluded but various strategies such as adding of additives for increasing rheological properties which ultimately decrease gluten content, gluten proteolysis, genetically modified wheat breeding, sourdough fermentation, frozen storage, and partial baking have been employed to produce gluten free bread (Gallagher et al., 2003; Arendt and Dal Bello, 2008; Casper and Atwell, 2014). \r\nAnother parameter which is sedimentation value which provides information on the protein quantity and quality of the wheat and flour. It sedimentation test is used as a screening tool in wheat breeding as well in milling applications. The required sedimentation value of >60ml, 30-60ml and <30ml are good for making quality bread, chapatti and biscuit respectively (Ram et al., 2018). Mutwali (2011) reported the sedimentation value in the range of 19.0 to 40.3ml in 20 Sudanese wheat cultivars grown at three different locations. The result of Pasha et al. (2007) reported that Zeleny sedimentation value were ranged from 50.67 to 80.34ml and the wet gluten content were ranged from 13.82 to 43.13% where highest was reported in Pavon and SA42 variety, while the lowest wet gluten was found in Durum97 and Wadanak85 wheat varieties. Further, Hruskova and Famera (2003) evaluated 318 wheat samples for Zeleny sedimentation value through NIR technique and reported the value in range from 17 to 66ml.\r\nStarch constitutes 60-70% of the mass of wheat flour. In general, soft wheat has less protein and more starch than hard wheat. The wheat starch is the predominant carbohydrate source for human diets, also an important substrate for producing alcoholic beverages and fuel ethanol by fermentation and the raw material for many industries (Guragain et al., 2016). Starch are synthesized and accumulated during the grain filling process (Yang et al., 2004), which is the major factor influencing grain yield and quality of wheat (Emes et al., 2003; Hurkman et al., 2003). For testing of varietal purity qualitatively, phenol colour test is generally performed since it correlates to the darkening of whole meal dough and negatively correlated to the chapatti quality. Dark colour indicates high polyphenol oxidase activities which are not suitable for good chapatti quality (Ram et al., 2018). So, wheat varieties having good characteristics with low colour pigmentation value indicate a good chapatti colour.\r\nCorrelations and principal component analysis also revealed interesting insights into relationships among various quality parameters studied. The study has importance as the protein content is the basis for usage of wheat for the formulation of various products (Punia et al., 2019). Moreover, the application of principle component analysis (PCA) which are generally used for basic multivariate data reduction in order to ascertain the relationships between two or more characters by linear transformation of original variables to a new group also known as principle component. This method made it possible to fully assess the correlations in between various components of grain quality traits and this method is generally used for the analysis of object diversity and allows their grouping according to the similarity hierarchy (Gregorczyk et al., 2008). Multivariate methods such as principle component analysis have proven to be useful for evaluating and classifying germplasm when a large number of accession are assessed for several characteristics of agronomic importance. In particular it identifies the principal directions in which the data varies (Singh et al., 2018). Principal component analysis also categorized the varieties on the basis of their chapatti making quality. The wheat varieties with chapatti score >90 (C306, GW322, GW381, GW173, GW190, HD2687, and Lok1), chapatti score <70 (WH291, WH157, C591, HD2189, and UAS 410) and chapatti score 70-90 (HD2329, Raj3765, WH1021, NIAW34, and Raj3077) were grouped separately (Panghal et al., 2019). But, as earlier report indicated that the protein characteristics, the proportion of gluten and end-use qualities were influenced by year and cultivar (Rozbicki et al. 2015; Triboi et al. 2000). The principle component analysis was made for visualizing the differences and similarities among the various quality attributes of different wheat varieties. Later, Eigen value was obtained from the PC, which was used to determine the relative discriminative power of the axes and their associated characters (Alice et al., 2018). Therefore, the present findings could able to generate valuable information for the various quality aspects of wheat varieties. ','Elangbam Premabati Devi, J.M. Patel, L. Netajit Singh, Kajal S. Patel and S.K. Patel (2022). Comparative Analysis for Various Grain Quality Parameters in Bread Wheat Varieties. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 14(2): 867-875.'),(4969,'125','Storage Behaviour of Resistant Starch Rich Functional Macaroni Developed using Green Banana Flour','M. Balmurugan*, R. Saravanakumar, S. Kanchana, S. Vellaikumar, M.L. Mini and S. Haripriya','150 Storage Behaviour of Resistant Starch Rich Functional Macaroni Developed using Green Banana Flour M. Balmurugan 2646.pdf','',1,'Pastais a predominant carbohydrate source, which led developing chronic illnesses like obesity, cardio vascular disease and diabetes. Hence, unripe banana flour at 25, 35, 45, and 55 per cent was used to develop macaroni and they were organoleptically evaluated. Macaroni with 45 percent unripe banana flour was found to be best for various organoleptic attributes than all other samples and it was subjected to storage study. The Developed macaroni had 8.30 to 6.67 minutes of optimum cooking time, gruel loss was 3.62 to 5.69 percent, water absorption was 182.40 to 201.80 ml, and the rehydration ratio was 1.82 to 2.19.The ideal resistant starch concentration ranged from 2.29 to 22.38 percent. The macaroni packed in Metalized Polypropylene (MPP) had better cooking characteristics than High-Density Polyethylene (HDPE). The unripe banana flour macaroni with high resistant starch is a beneficial one for controlling the life-threatening chronic diseases.','Unripe banana flour, Macaroni, Storage stability, Resistant starch','The cooking quality assessment of banana flour included macaroni during storage revealed that the optimum cooking time was 8.30 to 6.67 minutes, gruel loss was 3.62 to 5.69 percent, water absorption was 182.40 to 201.80 ml, and the rehydration ratio was 1.82 to 2.19. The optimum resistant starch content was 2.29 to 22.38% percent. All of the cooking property assessment factors showed that macaroni held in MPP performed better. The experiment discovered that macaroni made with unripe banana flour performed better than wheat flour macaroni.','INTRODUCTION\r\nEven though pasta was 1st tried to introduce in Italy around 13th century effective equipment and quality ingredients were not readily accessible till 20th century. Most macaroni is now made on uninterpreted, larger capacity injected moulded parts that uses an auger extrusion concept which encompasses of extrusion and kneading in single run. Pasta fabrication involves processing of noodles, spaghetti, dry macaroni and other (Walsh et al., 1997).\r\nAdverse lifestyle choices play a critical role in the development of a wide spectrum of diseases. Pasta is historically considered as important wheat products used as predominant carbohydrate source which led to elevated blood sugar levels due to high glycaemic index. This is significant contributor to the risk of developing chronic illnesses like cancers, obesity, cardio vascular disease, diabetes and other (Tangthanantorn et al., 2021). In today’s fast paced world, with change in dietary pattern and hectic life habits it becomes clear that a healthy gastro intestinal tract is a critical one in determining the quality of life (Ritthiruangdej et al., 2011. Pasta products serves as an essential part in human nourishment due to their ease, pleasant taste and low cost. They are simple to cook, store, manage and excellent boosting diet in terms of nutritional quality by partially or completely replacing wheat flour with other sources like cereals, pulses, banana and other resistant starch foods (Flores-Silva et al., 2015). Due to growing demand for this product, necessitating ongoing study for increasing quality (Takacs et al., 2008). According to the researchers study, sugars are gradually released from pasta throughout digestion, resulting in a continual rise in postprandial blood glucose and insulin response. Pasta is reported to have a low glycaemic index (0 to 55) and medium (56 to 69) in reference to bread (Agama‐Acevedo et al., 2009).\r\nUnfortunately, due to insufficient post-harvest treatment, there is an excess production and substantial amounts of fruit are wasted during commerce. As a result, new business models for bananas as a food ingredient are being considered (Ovando-Martinez et al., 2009). Unripe bananas are high in starch, banana flour includes 61.3-76.5g/100g of starch and 6.3-15.5g/100g of fibre respectively (Tribess et al., 2009). Banana flour is rich source of vitamins like A, C, E, K and minerals may be potassium, calcium, phosphorus etc (Biernacka et al., 2020). Banana flour has a distinct aroma, flavour, and appearance. Additionally, it works nicely with water. It has expansion and translucent characteristics when heated, and gelatinization when frozen. Banana flour also has a high level of amylose, which gives it cooking qualities (Oupathumpanont, and Wisansakkul, 2021).The resistant starch found in unripe bananas is a form of starch that is not digested in the small intestine but is fermented by bacteria in the large intestine, resulting in short chain fatty acids and other organic acids. Resistant starch is associated with lower glycaemic index of carbohydrates and not produces glucose in the body. Lower glycaemic index linked to weight and diabetes management (Tangthanantorn et al., 2021). Because customers are unlikely to consume enough veggies and other fibre rich foods on their own, supplementing pasta with unripe banana flour can help them to achieve nutritional benefits and it exhibit some anti-oxidant properties (Agama‐Acevedo et al., 2009). Uncooked or cooked bananas can be used to make banana flour. Many of the products like baby foods, macaroni, bread and pancakes have been developed by incorporating with banana flour. Unripe bananas are high in bioactive compounds and carbohydrates which are nutritionally beneficial. Unripe banana flour had low rate of carbohydrate enzymatic hydrolysis and may useful in expanding spectrum of low glycaemic index meals to customers (Ritthiruangdej et al., 2011).\r\nMATERIALS AND METHODS\r\nNon-perishable items. Whole wheat flour, salt, gingelly oil, chilli powder, turmeric powder, cumin powder, and pepper powder were procured from local department store in Madurai. Jan Enterprises Chennai provided food-grade Xanthan gum, which was used as an additive for performing the role as gluten on maintaining the rheological and textural properties of the extruded macaroni.\r\nPerishable items. Unripe banana bunches (Musa acuminata) were obtained from Madurai\'s wholesale banana market. Onion, tomato, salt, green chilies, capsicum, carrot, beans, cabbage, and coriander leaves were purchased at Madurai\'s primary vegetable market when the macaroni was processed.\r\nPackaging materials. For wrapping the pasta samples, 200-gauge High Density Polyethylene (HDPE) bags and Metallized Polypropylene (MPP) were purchased from the local whole sale packaging store Madurai. \r\nProcessing of unripe banana flour. Unripe banana bunches were selected after being carefully scrutinised for any physical damage, uniform colour without any black patches, and poorer quality bananas were excluded. The best banana was chosen, and the skins were removed by hand with the help of a stainless knife. The selected bananas were peeled and cut into 4mm thickness for quick drying and then immersed in water (1: 3 ratio) 0.05 percent potassium meta bisulphite (K2S2O5) and 0.1 percent citric acid treatment for 10 minutes to stop enzymatic browning (Kumar et al., 2019). The banana slices were then dehydrated in a laboratory size cabinet dryer at a temperature of 55 °C until they became brittle. The dehydrated slices were ground for 120 seconds in a commercial pulveriser, then sieved using 60 mesh sieves (ASTM: 60; 250 m) collected and stored at room temperature for further analysis in 250 g HDPE bags.\r\nDevelopment of unripe banana flour substituted Macaroni. Whole wheat flour, salt, and water were the primary constituents in the control macaroni (T1). Flour blends (whole wheat flour 55%, unripe banana flour 45%) were weighed, then salt (2%), and xanthan gum (1%) were added and well blended together to develop unripe banana flour replaced macaroni (T2). \r\nThe flour mixtures were then sieved and kneaded with the necessary amount of water after being sifted three times to guarantee proper mixing. The flour mixtures were fed into the extruder\'s barrel and kneaded for 30 minutes to ensure that the extruder shaft distributed moisture evenly. The correct brass die was then fixed, and the macaroni were extruded. After extrusion, the extruded macaroni was steamed for 15 minutes. Steamed macaroni was cooled and dried in a cabinet dryer for four hours at 60°C. The prepared macaroni samples were packed in (P1) High density Polyethylene bags (HDPE) of 200 gauge and (P2) Metalized Polypropylene (MPP) bags to assure the safety and quality of the extruded macaroni during storage. The storage stability and resistant starch content of Macaroni were investigated before and during storage at 30-day intervals for a period 90 days.\r\nCooking qualities of unripe banana flour incorporated macaroni. The following approach, as described by Grant et al. (2004); Hundal et al. (2007) was used with slight modification to analyse the cooking parameters of the developed macaroni once in every 30 days throughout the storage period, including cooking time, solid loss, cooked volume, and rehydration ratio.\r\nIn a boiling test tube, five grams of macaroni was placed (capacity 100 ml, 18.5 cm length, and 1.4 cm diameter) and was filled halfway with water and placed in a boiling water bath.\r\nCooking time. The cooking time was recorded when the water inside the test tube began to boil. Every 30 seconds, a few pieces were drawn and squeezed between two glass slides to check for the presence of a white core in the product, which implies an uncooked product, and then cooked until no white core was evident between the two glass slides.\r\nGruel loss. The drained water was dried in a hot air oven at a temperature of 110 degrees Celsius, Weighing was done on a regular basis (at one-hour intervals) until concordant values were established. Weighing the residue and calculating the amount of cooking loss/solid loss in macaroni.\r\nWater absorption\r\nThe surplus water from the cooked product was drained off, and the amount of water left in the sample was measured and recorded as water absorbed. Water absorption data were given as millilitres of water absorbed per 100 grammes of dry matter in the sample.\r\nRehydration ratio. Kumar (2013) technique was used to study the rehydration properties of pasta products with slight modifications. To find the ideal time for rehydration, the sample was preliminarily immersed in hot water (1000°C) for various times and their rehydration features were studied for each period. For 3, 5, 7, 10, 12, and 15 minutes, all of the samples were observed. The amount of time it took for the macaroni to rehydrate to the proper level was recorded. The results of the rehydration ratio results were described as follows: \r\n\r\n \r\n \r\nResistant starch content. The resistant starch content of pasta products was analysed and described according to the method given by McCleary and Monaghan (2002).\r\nStatistical analysis. The data collected were statistically analysed as suggested by Gomez and Gomez (1984). The data of three replications was analysed using a Factorial Completely Randomized Design (FCRD) design to see how the storage period and packaging materials affected the cooking qualities of the developed macaroni.\r\nRESULTS AND DISCUSSION\r\nChanges in the cooking time(min) of the macaroni during storage. Table 1 shows the results of changes in the cooking time of the macaroni during storage. The time which was taken for the cooking of control(T1) macaroni was 8.3 min. there was gradual reduction in the cooking time was observed in the cooking time during storage from 30 to 90 days. There was a slight variation was observed between the packaging materials P1 and P2. Cooking time was found to be reduced from 8.30min to 8.20min and 8.25, 8.13, 8.28 and 8.02 and 8.11min for control macaroni packed in P1and P2 respectively. Similarly, the initial cooking time of unripe banana flour incorporated macaroni was 7.55min and were found to be reduced to 7.34 and 7.45, 7.11 and 7.34 and 6.57 and 7.22 respectively during 30, 60 and 90 days of storage respectively.\r\nUnripe banana flour dilutes and weakens the protein network in the composite mix, allowing for more moisture absorption as well as heat transfer during cooking, thus will facilitate in shortening of cooking time. (Rayas-Duarte et al.,1996).\r\nCooking time of noodles made with unripe banana flour in the range of 10, 20, 30, 40, and 50 percent indicated decrease in cooking time as increase in banana flour varied from 4 minutes to 2 minutes, according to Anggraeni et al. (2018). Spaghetti cooked with 15 percent, 30 percent, and 45 percent unripe banana flour in composite mix demonstrated that the degrease in cooking time when increasing the banana flour concentration in pasts ranged from 8.6 minutes, 5.1 minutes, and four minutes, respectively (Osorio-Daz et al., 2014).\r\nChanges in the gruel loss (%) of Macaroni during storage. The changes in gruel loss(%) of macaroni during storage is given in Table 2. The gruel loss of the macaroni was 3.62% in T1 and 5.33% in T2 at initial day of storage. the changes in the gruel loss of the macaroni were also studied for every 30 days of interval upto 90 days for both control(T1) and raw banana flour incorporated macaroni(T2). The initial and final gruel loss were 3.62 and 3.96% for T1 packed in P1 and for sample packed in P2 was 3.62 and 3.80%. Similarly, the initial gruel loss of 5.33 was found to be increased to 5.69 and 5.33 packed in P1 and P2 for raw banana flour incorporated macaroni. The increase in cooking loss when the banana flour incorporation was correlate with fact that the overall structure of the noodles will deteriorate when the amylose binding gluten network weakens, allowing solids to leach from the noodles during cooking (Rayas-Duarte et al., 1996). In order to get good quality pasta, solid loss should not exceed 8%. (Gull et al., 2015). However, the solid loss in the current investigation was within the safe range and did not exceed 6%. Due to the interaction of non-glutenous components with wheat protein, a similar finding of increased cooking loss from 8.71 to 11.49 percent was discovered while increasing banana flour (gluten) Ritthiruangdej et al. (2011). The inclusion of unripe banana flour increases solid loss due to the high amylose content in banana flour, which will solubilize off the pasta surface during cooking, according to Hernandez-Nava et al., (2009).\r\nChanges in the water absorption (ml/100g) of macaroni during storage. Changes in water absorption of macaroni during storage is given in Table 3. The changes in the water absorption of control(T1) and raw banana incorporated macaroni was 182.40 and 195.15ml. A slight increase in the water absorption capacity was observed in both T1 and T2 throughout the storage period. The water absorption capacity of the control (T1) macaroni packed in P1 and P2 was 187.90 ml and 185.88 ml at the end of the 90 days of storage period. The raw banana flour incorporated macaroni was also found to be increased from 195.15 ml to 201.8 and 199.25ml packed in P1 and P2 after 90 days of storage. The gluten protein composition in macaroni has a direct impact on how much water is absorbed. During the heating process, the gluten protein in the noodles denatures and forms a link, blocking water penetration \r\nat the gelatinization temperature (Kovacs et al., 2004). The high-water absorption capacity of pasta products made from unripe banana flour is owing to the high amylose and dietary fibre content, which demonstrates that it can contain more water than whole wheat flour pasta (Adebowale et al., 2012).\r\nDue to the loose amylopectin and amylose association in the natural starch association on control flour, Mabogo et al. (2021) found that banana flour (2.85 percent and 1.14 percent) had the maximum water absorption capacity and swelling capacity than control (1.25percent and 1.88 percent). Unripe banana flour was studied on the creation of dry noodles by Anggraeni et al. (2018). The low protein content and high starch content of noodles with 0, 10, and 30% unripe banana flour incorporation improved water absorption by 157, 169, and 180 percent, respectively, according to the physiochemical characteristics study.\r\nChanges in the rehydration ratio of macaroni during storage. Table 4 shows changes in the rehydration ratio of macaroni during storage. In all of the treatments, the maximum time required for satisfactory rehydration of macaroni was 12.30 minutes The rehydration ratio of the control(T1) ranged between 1.82 to 2.07 and 1.82 to 2.01 for macaroni samples packed in P1 and P2. The rehydration ratio of the T2 was ranged from 1.95 to 2.19 and 2.12 for sample packed in \r\nP1 and P2 at 90 days of storage. All samples packaged in both packaging materials gradually improved their rehydration ratio, however macaroni packed in P2 had a low rehydration ratio. According to Iyn, (2013), millet supplemented pasta has a higher rehydration ratio than control pasta, resulting in lower gluten protein in millet supplemented pasta products. The rehydration ratio of soya meal maker enriched macaroni increased from 1.76 to 1.94 after storage (Kavitha, 2006).\r\nChanges in the Resistant Starch (RS) content of macaroni during storage days. Resistant starch content variation and its changes during storage of macaroni was documented in Table 5. The initial resistant starch content of control(T1) and (T2) unripe banana flour incorporated macaroni were found to be 2.29 and 22.02 at the initial day of storage. At the end of the storage the resistant starch content of the control(T1) and unripe banana flour incorporated macaroni(T2) were found to be increased to 2.43 to 2.41 and 22.38 and 22.36 packed in HDPE and MPP at the end of the 90thday of storage. The results reported in these table shows that resistant starch content of unripe banana flour supplemented macaroni had high resistant starch than the whole wheat flour macaroni. Optimum resistant starch content of the developed macaroni products was ranged from 2.29 to 22.38g/100g. Increasing of resistant starch was due to molecular reassociation or retrogradation of gelatinised and fragmented amylose during storage (Dhital et al., 2010).\r\nStudy on Dry fresh and dry noodles development from unripe banana flour at the level of 10, 20, 30 and 40per cent incorporation reported increasing the banana flour proportion increased resistant starch content in noodles. The resulted resistant starch content at this level of addition was 9.54, 13.37, 18.03 and 23.31 per cent but in the case of control sample 5.565 of resistant starch was observed (Tangthanantorn et al., 2021). Salted noodles developed from 20% unripe banana flour showed 10.92% resistant starch but control sample had 3.25% resistant starch (Li et al., 2022).\r\n','M. Balmurugan, R. Saravanakumar, S. Kanchana, S.Vellaikumar, M.L. Mini and S. Haripriya (2022). Storage Behaviour of Resistant Starch Rich Functional Macaroni Developed using Green Banana Flour. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 14(2): 876-882.'),(4970,'125','Genetic Variability Analysis in Rice Genotypes under Drought Stress','Pavithra S., Vengadessan V.* and Santosh Kumar Meena','151 Genetic Variability Analysis in Rice Genotypes under Drought Stress Pavithra S.pdf','',1,'Rice production is hindered by various environmental factors, among which the most important one is water crisis. Crop improvement under drought stress condition is a crucial and challenging task. To develop high yielding genotypes combined with drought tolerance, population with high variability serves as a principal source for effective and successful selection. Hence the present study aims to assess the variability parameters among the rice genotypes under normal and drought environments. The field experiments were laid out in two environments viz., normal and drought conditions using RBD design with three replications at the research field of Pandit Jawaharlal Nehru College of Agriculture and Research Institute (PAJANCOA & RI), Karaikal. Drought environment was maintained up to peak tillering phase until the drought symptoms appeared over the crop. Traits such as days to 50 per cent flowering, plant height, productive tillers, panicle length, grains per panicle, grain weight, grain yield, relative water content, leaf senescence, leaf rolling, leaf drying and stress percentage were observed. The genotypes IW Ponni and Moroboreken had registered the maximum grain yield under normal and drought environments respectively. The results shown that PCV and GCV were high for grains per panicle and grain yield under both normal and drought environments. In drought related traits, leaf senescence, leaf rolling, leaf drying and stress percentage had recorded high magnitude of PCV and GCV. High heritability combined with high to moderate genetic advance were observed for days to 50 per cent flowering, productive tillers, grains per panicle and grain yield under both normal and drought environments. Leaf senescence, leaf drying and stress percentage had shown high heritability accompanied with high genetic advance under drought environment. Hence, it was concluded that these traits offer much scope for drought tolerance improvement through simple selection techniques.','Rice, Drought, PCV, GCV, Heritability','The results shown that the mean performance of grain yield was higher in normal environment (26.24 g) than drought environment (16.96 g). The overall mean grain yield of forty-eight rice genotypes had recorded 33.59 per cent reduction in drought environment compared to normal environment. The genotypes IW Ponni and Moroboreken had given the maximum grain yield under normal and drought environment respectively. PCV and GCV were high for grains per panicle and grain yield under both normal and drought environments. In drought related traits, leaf senescence, leaf rolling, leaf drying and stress percentage had recorded high magnitude of PCV and GCV. High heritability combined with high to moderate genetic advance were observed for days to 50 per cent flowering, productive tillers, grains per panicle and grain yield under both normal and drought environments. Leaf senescence, leaf drying and stress percentage had shown high heritability accompanied with high genetic advance under drought environment. ','INTRODUCTION\r\nRice is considered as a prime most food intake for about 2.5 billion of World population. It plays a vital role in the Indian agriculture as it is a staple food for more than 70% of population (Devi et al., 2022). It was predicted that 15–20 million hectares of irrigated rice will face water crisis by 2025 (Venkateshwarlu et al., 2022; Wu et al., 2017). In Cauvery delta zone rice occupies a pivotal place as it is acting as a rice bowl for Tamilnadu and Puducherry regions. Here rice is cultivated in irrigated lowland under puddled flooded condition using Cauvery River water. Karaikal, U.T of Puducherry falls under tail end region of Cauvery delta zone. The rice crop cultivated in this region faces late receipt and inadequate supply of Cauvery River water, which is the major irrigation source of this region and further deficit, irregular and frequent failures of monsoons resulted in water shortage leading to steady reduction or decrease in area under rice cultivation in this highly productive region. Therefore, water stress is a major factor limiting rice production that causes a great threat to food security (Fellahi et al., 2013). To reduce yield losses of rice crops in water deficient areas and to increase the overall rice production, rice varieties with greater adaptation to drought stress are essential. \r\nAlthough plenty of studies are reported on drought tolerance of crops, crop improvement in this part is hampered due to several unknown mechanisms involved in respond to drought stress (Aghaei et al., 2017; Zu et al., 2017; Zhu et al., 2016). Drought tolerance is a complex trait associated with number of morphophysiological traits (Ahmed et al., 2021). A judicious phenotypic evaluation may be helpful in direct selection of drought tolerant genotypes with good yield potential. \r\nKeeping the known fact in the mind that crop improvement depends on the magnitude of genetic variability and the extent to which the desirable traits are heritable, the present study was aimed to assess the variability parameters among the rice genotypes under normal and drought environments.\r\nMATERIALS AND METHODS\r\nThe plant material includes forty-eight rice genotypes in which 32 advanced breeding lines are medium duration from the AICRIP - Initial variety Trial – irrigated medium (Kharif, 2018). The aim of including advanced breeding lines is to study their performance among each other (i.e., between genotypes) under drought and normal environments. Varieties included in the trial are popularly cultivated in Cauvery delta region. Here the main aim is to compare these varieties between normal and drought environment for their relative performance. Along with these genotypes six drought tolerant lines were also planted. The details of these genotypes are presented in Table 1. \r\nThe experiments viz., normal and drought environment were conducted simultaneously in two adjacent plots of 20 cents field area at Pandit Jawaharlal Nehru College of Agriculture and Research Institute (PAJANCOA & RI), Karaikal. Forty-eight rice genotypes were sown in three lines per entry under raised bed nursery. Twenty-five days old seedlings were planted in the experimental blocks, where they were equally partitioned to two separate experiments one under normal environment and other under drought environment in randomized block design (RBD) with three replications. Each genotype was planted in three rows with the spacing of 20 × 10 cm within genotype and 30 cm spacing between two genotypes. Both the fields were in puddled condition during transplanting of seedlings. The total amount of rainfall during the crop period was 96.9 cm (IMD, 2018) with dry spell of 4 weeks. The trial is under sufficient water stress during the vegetative period. \r\nVegetative stage drought is more experienced in Cauvery delta zone, in which Karaikal region is most vulnerable for transplanted seedlings stage during late samba because of late receipt and inadequate supply of Cauvery River water. Hence, water stress is imposed after 15 days of transplanting in the drought field while the normal field was irrigated for 5 cm of water depth at frequent intervals. The drought environment was allowed for drying for the disappearance of water till the formation of fine cracks or hairline cracks indicating the moisture level below the soil surface (>15cm) and this condition was maintained up to peak tillering phase (20 days) until the drought symptoms appeared over the crop as reported by Manickavelu et al. (2006) (Fig. 1) while the normal field was kept flooded (Fig. 2). In rice once the plants attain 70% RWC, it indicates real physiological stress of the plant irrespective of environment (Manickavelu et al., 2006). Hence the RWC was taken at 5 days intervals after 2 weeks of draining water. When most of the recorded entries reach RWC of 70% on clay loam soil, then drought scores related traits were recorded. Here we have taken RWC as criteria to predict physiological stress occurrence.\r\n \r\nObservations were recorded on five randomly selected plants of each genotype per replication in both the experiments for yield component traits viz., days to 50% flowering (DF), plant height (PH), productive tillers (PT), panicle length (PL), grains per panicle (GP), grain weight (GW) and grain yield per plant (GY). Additionally, when most of the genotypes attained 70% RWC level, the scoring of leaf rolling (LR), leaf drying (LD) and leaf senescence (LS) were observed according to Standard Evaluation System adopted for rice (IRRI, 1996) in drought environment.\r\nStatistical analysis. Mean, variance and standard deviation were worked out by adopting the standard method suggested by Panse and Sukhatme (1967). The analysis of variance was carried out individually for each environment (Table 2). Pooled analysis of variance was also performed for normal and drought environment to assess the significance of genotypes across the environments, between the environments and interaction of genotypes with environments as suggested by Singh and Chaudhary (1977). The phenotypic and genotypic variances were estimated as per Lush (1940). The phenotypic and genotypic coefficient of variations were estimated using the formula suggested by Burton (1952) and expressed in percentage. Heritability in broad sense was calculated according to Lush (1940) and expressed in percentage. Genetic advance as per cent of mean was worked out based on the formula given by Johnson et al. (1955).RESULTS AND DISCUSSION\r\nMean Performance. Forty-eight genotypes were evaluated for their mean performance of twelve characters viz., seven characters under both normal and drought environment and additional five characters under drought environment. \r\nThe genotypes Moroboreken and N-22 had exhibited early flowering in normal and drought environments respectively. The shortest genotypes observed are IVT-129/1519 and IVT-132/1535 while tallest genotypes are Moroboreken and Dular under normal and drought environments respectively. Maximum number of productive tillers was produced by TKM 13 and IVT-137/1523 under normal and drought environments respectively. The genotype IVT-134/1560 under normal environment and IVT-138/1502 under drought environment had enlisted for maximum panicle length. Grains per panicle for genotype IVT-130/1530 under normal environment and for genotype IVT-141/1537 under drought environment were recorded high. The genotypes IW Ponni and Moroboreken had registered the maximum grain yield under normal and drought environments respectively. The genotype IVT-105/1528 had shown the highest relative water content under drought environment. The overall mean of these traits of the genotypes were greatly influenced by drought stress. Mean performance data were shown in Table 5 & 6. \r\nIn the present study, significant grain yield reduction was noticed under drought environment over normal environment condition by considering the overall mean performance of all the forty-eight genotypes. Venkateshwarlu et al. (2022) reported the same trend of yield decline under water deficit condition compared to irrigated situation. The stress prevailed in drought environment reduced greatly the number of productive tillers, grains per panicle, panicle length and grain weight. Days to 50 per cent flowering, plant height and relative water content also reduced under drought environment. This poor performance of the yield contributing traits was responsible for yield reduction realized under drought environment compared to normal environment as reported by earlier workers (Kamoshita et al., 2008; Ndjiondjop et al., 2010; Sandhu and Kumar, 2017; Bhattarai and Subudhi, 2018). However, genotypes which flowered and matured earlier may favored by partial escape from drought and have an ability to complete their life cycle. The decrease in plant height in response to drought stress may be due to decreased relative water content (Arnon, 1972). Sinclair and Ludlow (1985) proposed that RWC was better measure for plant’s water status than thermodynamic state. \r\nThe visual symptoms which show that the plant is under stress condition are leaf senescence, leaf rolling and leaf drying which differed significantly among the genotypes under drought environment. The genotype DRR DHAN-44 have recorded the highest score of 3 under drought stress and the genotype IVT-102/1557 and IVT-123/1521 have recorded the lowest score of 0 (Table 6). Mitchell et al. (1998) had reported that mean drought score changes with time as a result of the development of plant water deficit and using drought score measured as an indirect selection criterion for grain yield, it is possible to achieve a positive response to selection for grain yield under drought environment.\r\nVariability analysis. Variability parameters such as phenotypic variance (PV), genotypic variance (GV), phenotypic coefficient of variance (PCV), genotypic coefficient of variance (GCV), heritability (h2) and genetic advance (GA) were calculated for the traits under study separately for each environment (Table 3 & 4). Large genotypic and phenotypic variation was observed for traits such as productive tillers, grains per panicle and drought scores which indicated that these traits would respond for effective selection programme for their improvement in both the environments. This was in accordance with Mini and Mohanan (2009); Abarshahr et al. (2011). Henderson et al., 1995 have reported inconsistency of genotypic drought score measurements across environments. These results suggest that the genotypes will respond to drought stress differently, as measured by drought score, when the pattern of development of soil-plant water deficit is different. Thus, the genotypic differences in drought score are strongly influenced by the growing environment. Therefore, the environment used for screening genotypic variation of drought score at vegetative state must correspond to the target environment’s wet season. The traits such as plant height and grain weight have recorded moderate genetic variation and this was same as given by Lakshmi et al. (2016). \r\nHeritability estimates in broad sense alone do not serve as the true indicator of genetic potential of the genotypes since the scope is restricted by their interaction with the environment. The heritability estimates along with genetic advance would be more useful and valid for phenotypic selection than heritability estimates alone. Further, the heritability in broad sense includes both additive and epistatic gene effects and hence it is reliable to ascertain the worthiness of the trait only if it is accompanied with the genetic advance. High heritability accompanied with \r\nlow genetic gain indicates the presence of dominance or epistatic effects. In the present investigation, estimates of genetic variability were quantified by the broad sense heritability and genetic advance as per cent mean among other genetic parameters. High heritability combined with high genetic advance was exhibited by traits such as days to 50 per cent flowering, productive tillers, grains per panicle, grain weight, grain yield, leaf senescence, leaf drying and stress percentage under drought environment. This is in accordance with Mahto et al. (2003) for days to 50 per cent flowering, Mini and \r\nMohanan (2009) for productive tillers, Sharma and Sharma (2007) for grain weight, for grain yield and Manickavelu et al. (2006) for leaf senescence, leaf drying and stress percentage. High heritability accompanied with high genetic advance indicates that most likely the heritability is due to additive gene effects and selection may be effective for these traits.\r\nThe trait plant height had shown high heritability with moderate genetic advance under drought condition which was similar as said by Kumar et al. (2014). Low heritability with low genetic advance was registered for relative water content. The condition of low heritability accompanied with low genetic advance indicates that the character is highly influenced by environmental effects. The heritability for the drought score measurements were moderate to high which was in accordance with Pantuwan et al. (2004). Heritability for overall stress percentage which was derived from drought score in present study was found to be lower than grain yield as reported by Pantuwan et al. (2004).\r\n','Pavithra S., Vengadessan V. and Santosh Kumar Meena (2022). Genetic Variability Analysis in Rice Genotypes under Drought Stress. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 14(2): 883-890.'),(4971,'125','Fractionation of different Inorganic Pools of Phosphorus in Vertisols with different Organic Sources','Neeta Mahawar*, G.S. Tagore, Jajati Keshari Nayak, Suresh Kumawat, Mahesh Kumar Mimrot and Sumitra Kumawat','152 Fractionation of different Inorganic Pools of Phosphorus in Vertisols with Different Organic Sources Neeta Mahawar.pdf','',1,'An experiment was carried out in the laboratory of Department of Soil Science and Agricultural Chemistry, JNKVV, Jabalpur. In this study through incubation study in lab, soil samples were pre incubated at 25°C for 1 week prior to actual incubation to stabilize the microbial activity. There were three Rock Phosphates of origin Jhabua, Udaipur-I, Udaipur-II and eleven treatments including the control and soils were analysed for phosphorus inorganic pool fractions. The aim of this study was to investigate the composition of Phosphorus (P) forms in vertisols with different organic sources and to identify the factors affecting the P forms in these soils for the purpose of reducing the fertilizer risks. Soil P was sequentially extracted by NH4Cl, NH4F and H2SO4, and inorganic (Pi) P in each fraction were determined. Initially when analyzed it was found Ca-P>Res P>Al-P>Fe-P>Saloid-P and percent contribution was 30.71>26.91>16.29>10.60>8.18 respectively may be due to the alkaline nature of the soil. After incubation with rock phosphates, the dominance of different inorganic P fractions in followed the order: Ca-P>Fe-P >Al-P>Saloid-P. The incubation experiment showed a positive impact of the organic acids and FYM in their ability to release P from all the RP sources. Among the various treatments, FYM@ 5 tonne ha-1 has maximum contribution in Saloid (13.34 kg ha-1), Fe-P (29.65 kg ha-1), Al-P (19.29 kg ha-1) and Ca-P (40.82 kg ha-1) fraction. ','Fractionation, P Pools, Rock phosphate, saloid P, soil, FYM','In general, all Pi fractions increased. After the application of rock phosphate, the content of the Ca-P is increased this was an indication of the fact that RPs contains a major source of Ca-P. Furthermore, the dominance of different inorganic P fractions in soils followed the order: Ca-P> Fe-P > Al-P> Saloid-P. Among the various treatments, FYM has maximum contribution in Saloid, Fe P, Al P and Ca P fraction as it contains high amount of P and helped in releasing P by blocking Al and Fe hydroxide complex sites. Hence by evaluating the various Pi fractions of P in soil accordingly fertilizer recommendations should be given and RPs can be a reliable source of P when applied with organic sources.','INTRODUCTION\r\nSoil phosphorus (P) is one of the most important nutrients after nitrogen controlling plant root proliferation and biomass growth in tropical agroecosystems where highly weathered soils exist. These soils are rich in P but limit the availability in occluded form (Nishigaki et al., 2018). Soil characteristics affect the P bioavailability and stability. Excess accumulation of P in soils can hamper the availability and increase losses through runoff (Yan et al., 2020).P seasonal utilization efficiency is just 15-20% (Dwivedi et al., 2017) which is obviously very low in India resulting in high accumulations in soil and lower availability. The dominant form of P in soils depends on the parent material and the soil physicochemical properties. Calcium (Ca) P as primary minerals is the most dominant form at the beginning of soil formation when the soils are young, and after subsequent weathering the P released is transformed into less-labile pools associated with the (Al) and (Fe) hydroxides. Therefore, Al-P and Fe-P are the main P forms in highly weathered soils of tropical areas, while Ca-P is the dominant form in younger soils. Furthermore, the use of chemical fertilisers like superphosphate may increase the amount of Ca-P in surface soils on arable fields (Wright 2009). Organic matter in soil also enhances P availability by blocking the Al and Fe fixation sites in soil complexes. Labile, inorganic, and organic fractions of P pools give an indication of the stability of P in soil.\r\n The solubility of phosphorus is greatest between pH 4.5 and 7, and the dominant species are then H2PO4-. When the pH is outside the range of greatest solubility, phosphorus will form insoluble precipitates with available iron/ aluminium and calcium/fluoride respectively. At low pH aluminium iron becomes soluble, and the concentration of these cations in soil solution increases. If there are large enough amounts of orthophosphate in the solution, the soil water may become supersaturated with regards to the solubility product of AlPO4 and FePO4, and precipitate phosphate out of the solution. At pH above the region of greatest solubility calcium carbonate becomes soluble, and form Ca3(PO4)2 precipitates with phosphate. The availability of P depends on the soil pH as it governs the occurrence and abundance of those metal cations that are prone to precipitate with P ions in the soil solution, namely Ca, Fe and Al. Hence, in neutral to alkaline soils, P ions rather precipitate as dicalcium or octa calcium phosphates, hydroxyl apatite and eventually least soluble apatites (Hinsinger, 2011). The aim of the study was to extract the P forms soil using the sequential extraction method, and to identify the factors responsible to the formation of P pools in soils. Moreover, evaluating Olsen-P and P fractions can predict the bioavailability of P fractions by giving quantitative information on the dynamic process of the P replenishing ability (Yan et al., 2020).\r\nMATERIAL AND METHODS\r\nRock phosphate. Three rock phosphates (RP) were used for the study, out of which two Udaipur grade I with 26% P2O5 and II with 27.48% P2O5 were used and one is from Jhabua (M.P) with 11.68% P2O5. Udaipur RP (URP) was obtained from Rajasthan State Mines and Minerals Ltd, Udaipur, Rajasthan, India; and Jhabua RP (JRP) was obtained from Jhabua, M.P., India. All the three RPs were used for the incubation study.\r\nAnalysis of physico-chemical properties of soil of study area\r\nAvailable Phosphorus. The available P in soil was extracted using the Olsen’s reagent (0.5 M NaHCO3) (Olsen et al., 1954) for the neutral soil. The P content in the extracts was determined using the ascorbic acid blue colour method (Watanabe and Olsen, 1965). The intensity of the blue color developed was determined by a spectrophotometer at 660 nm wavelength.\r\nFractionation of Inorganic P. Soil inorganic P was fractionated into various fractions by modified P fractionation scheme by Kuo (1996). The procedure is depicted through the flow chart (Fig. 1).\r\nSaloid means loosely-bound P, occluded P means P occluded in Fe/ Al oxides while residual P means P from the soil residue remaining after the last acid extraction which was digested with H2SO4/ H2O2 at 360°C (Soremia et al., 2017). All the inorganic P fractions was determined as per the ascorbic acid blue colour method as described above. The maximum colour intensity developed after 10 min and was measured using a spectrophotometer at 660 nm wavelength.The fractions of P i.e., Saloid-P, Al-P, Fe-P and Ca-P were analyzed in soils. Results showed the P pools in abundance. From analysis of soil result was: Ca-P> Res P> Al-P> Fe-P> Saloid-P which value was 39.4>34.4>20.9>13.6>10.5 kg ha-1 and percent contribution 30.71> 26.91> 16.29> 10.60> 8.18 of total-P, respectively.\r\nRESULTS AND DISCUSSION \r\nAmong the various forms, Ca-P fraction was dominant fraction in the soil which ranged from 40.41 to 42.61 kgha-1, Compared to other P fractions Saliod-P was present in a small quantity which ranged from 11.02 to 13.81 kgha-1, the contribution of Fe-P in phosphorus fractions is about 29.28 to 31.48 kgha-1 followed by Al-P which ranged from 17.78 to 19.86 kgha-1. The dominance of different inorganic P fractions in soil followed the order: Ca-P> Fe-P > Al-P> Saloid-P. Among the various treatments, FYM has maximum contribution in Saloid (13.34 kg ha-1), Al-P (19.29 kg ha-1), Fe-P (29.65 kg ha-1) and Ca-P (40.82 kg ha-1) fraction.\r\nEffect of RPs and organics on P pools in soils at the end of incubation experiment. The data pertaining to distribution of different pools of phosphorus is given in Table 2. The alkaline nature (soil reaction) of soils tends to precipitate the available phosphorus as Ca-P and least as saloid-P similarly reported by Sarkar (2002). Similar findings were reported by Kanwar and Garewal (1990), they reported that the Ca-P fraction increased with addition of P fertilizer as well as increase in pH, on ageing Ca-P increased up to 15-30 day. The result is in conformity with findings of Chang and Tomar (2007), Trivedi et al. (2010). The dominance of different inorganic P fractions in soils followed the order: Ca-P> Fe-P > Al-P> Saloid-P. Among the various treatments, FYM has maximum contribution in Saloid, Fe P, Al P and Ca P fraction. The content of the Ca-P ranks highest which was an indication of the fact that Ca-P form contributed to the major source of P in black soil as reported by Garg and Milkha (2010).\r\nThe organic fraction generally constitutes 20-80% of P in surface horizon (Brady and Weil, 2002). The process of soluble phosphate anion being bound with soil constituent so, that they become insoluble and unavailable to the plants. Several mechanisms like precipitation, dissolution, adsorption-desorption, immobilization and mineralization reactions occurred (Kanwar and Reddy, 2003). Variation in P fraction is the pedogenic manifestation (Walker and Syres 1976), stage of soil development (Smeck 1976) and age of soil. As the soil mature the Ca-P gets transformed into Al-P and sesquioxide bond phosphorus with maturity of soils. Changes in the P pools in soils are significantly affected by soil type. In general, total P content is low in strongly weathered soils orders and high in young soil. \r\nIn acid soils among the different forms of P, Fe-P dominates. In India Alfisols with pH ranging from 5.5 to 6.8 the order of soil P distribution was Fe-P> Ca-P> Al-P. The presence of clay, Al, Fe and sesquioxides is responsible for fixation of applied P (Doddamani and Seshagiri Rao, 1996). The availabilities of P also depend on soil pH, type of clay minerals, Fe, Al hydroxides and calcium carbonates (Kaistha et al. 1997).\r\nTherefore the response of phosphorus in different soils varies and the crop response varies. But, in case of slightly acidic soils, applied phosphorus gradually reacts with Fe and Al compounds present in the soil and consequently, gets transformed into relatively insoluble compounds (variscite and strengite), which are hardly available to plants. Reddy et al. (2000) reported that the Vertisols of Bhopal of which about 18% is tied-up in organic form. Sarkar (2002) concluded that the saloid-P was very low in comparison to all other forms of inorganic soil P and varied from 1.5 to 2.8 mg kg-1 which might be due to high P-fixing capacity of chotanagpur plateau soils. Lakshminarayana (2007) suggested that minimum amount of P is in the saloid fraction (S-P), whereas maximum amount is in reductant soluble form (RS-P) in the soil and such high values may be attributed to the acidic to neutral soil reaction and high content of Fe2O3. Sarkar et al. (2014) revealed that the mean relative abundance followed the order: RS-P> Fe-P> occluded-P> Ca-P> Al-P> S-P. The soil is fairly rich in total P reserve but the available P status is low, the overall contribution of the inorganic soil P fractions to the total soil P is 57.75%. Singh et al. (2015) indicated that the release of P in alluvial and black soil was of higher degree of magnitude than that of red soil. Thakur et al. (1975) observed that in rice culture at Jabalpur (Madhya Pradesh), the Fe-P fraction formed the major portion of native inorganic soil P fractions, Al-P Fe-P and Ca-P fractions increased with the addition of P fertilizers. Goswami and Sahrawat, (1982.) indicated that Ca-P was the dominant form followed by Fe-P with very low amount of Al-P.\r\n','Neeta Mahawar, G.S. Tagore, Jajati Keshari Nayak, Suresh Kumawat, Mahesh Kumar Mimrot and Sumitra Kumawat (2022). Fractionation of different Inorganic Pools of Phosphorus in Vertisols with different Organic Sources. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 14(2): 891-895.'),(4972,'125','Fractionation of different Inorganic Pools of Phosphorus in Vertisols with different Organic Sources','Neeta Mahawar*, G.S. Tagore, Jajati Keshari Nayak, Suresh Kumawat, Mahesh Kumar Mimrot and Sumitra Kumawat','152 Fractionation of different Inorganic Pools of Phosphorus in Vertisols with Different Organic Sources Neeta Mahawar.pdf','',4,'An experiment was carried out in the laboratory of Department of Soil Science and Agricultural Chemistry, JNKVV, Jabalpur. In this study through incubation study in lab, soil samples were pre incubated at 25°C for 1 week prior to actual incubation to stabilize the microbial activity. There were three Rock Phosphates of origin Jhabua, Udaipur-I, Udaipur-II and eleven treatments including the control and soils were analysed for phosphorus inorganic pool fractions. The aim of this study was to investigate the composition of Phosphorus (P) forms in vertisols with different organic sources and to identify the factors affecting the P forms in these soils for the purpose of reducing the fertilizer risks. Soil P was sequentially extracted by NH4Cl, NH4F and H2SO4, and inorganic (Pi) P in each fraction were determined. Initially when analyzed it was found Ca-P>Res P>Al-P>Fe-P>Saloid-P and percent contribution was 30.71>26.91>16.29>10.60>8.18 respectively may be due to the alkaline nature of the soil. After incubation with rock phosphates, the dominance of different inorganic P fractions in followed the order: Ca-P>Fe-P >Al-P>Saloid-P. The incubation experiment showed a positive impact of the organic acids and FYM in their ability to release P from all the RP sources. Among the various treatments, FYM@ 5 tonne ha-1 has maximum contribution in Saloid (13.34 kg ha-1), Fe-P (29.65 kg ha-1), Al-P (19.29 kg ha-1) and Ca-P (40.82 kg ha-1) fraction. ','Fractionation, P Pools, Rock phosphate, saloid P, soil, FYM','In general, all Pi fractions increased. After the application of rock phosphate, the content of the Ca-P is increased this was an indication of the fact that RPs contains a major source of Ca-P. Furthermore, the dominance of different inorganic P fractions in soils followed the order: Ca-P> Fe-P > Al-P> Saloid-P. Among the various treatments, FYM has maximum contribution in Saloid, Fe P, Al P and Ca P fraction as it contains high amount of P and helped in releasing P by blocking Al and Fe hydroxide complex sites. Hence by evaluating the various Pi fractions of P in soil accordingly fertilizer recommendations should be given and RPs can be a reliable source of P when applied with organic sources.','INTRODUCTION\r\nSoil phosphorus (P) is one of the most important nutrients after nitrogen controlling plant root proliferation and biomass growth in tropical agroecosystems where highly weathered soils exist. These soils are rich in P but limit the availability in occluded form (Nishigaki et al., 2018). Soil characteristics affect the P bioavailability and stability. Excess accumulation of P in soils can hamper the availability and increase losses through runoff (Yan et al., 2020).P seasonal utilization efficiency is just 15-20% (Dwivedi et al., 2017) which is obviously very low in India resulting in high accumulations in soil and lower availability. The dominant form of P in soils depends on the parent material and the soil physicochemical properties. Calcium (Ca) P as primary minerals is the most dominant form at the beginning of soil formation when the soils are young, and after subsequent weathering the P released is transformed into less-labile pools associated with the (Al) and (Fe) hydroxides. Therefore, Al-P and Fe-P are the main P forms in highly weathered soils of tropical areas, while Ca-P is the dominant form in younger soils. Furthermore, the use of chemical fertilisers like superphosphate may increase the amount of Ca-P in surface soils on arable fields (Wright 2009). Organic matter in soil also enhances P availability by blocking the Al and Fe fixation sites in soil complexes. Labile, inorganic, and organic fractions of P pools give an indication of the stability of P in soil.\r\n The solubility of phosphorus is greatest between pH 4.5 and 7, and the dominant species are then H2PO4-. When the pH is outside the range of greatest solubility, phosphorus will form insoluble precipitates with available iron/ aluminium and calcium/fluoride respectively. At low pH aluminium iron becomes soluble, and the concentration of these cations in soil solution increases. If there are large enough amounts of orthophosphate in the solution, the soil water may become supersaturated with regards to the solubility product of AlPO4 and FePO4, and precipitate phosphate out of the solution. At pH above the region of greatest solubility calcium carbonate becomes soluble, and form Ca3(PO4)2 precipitates with phosphate. The availability of P depends on the soil pH as it governs the occurrence and abundance of those metal cations that are prone to precipitate with P ions in the soil solution, namely Ca, Fe and Al. Hence, in neutral to alkaline soils, P ions rather precipitate as dicalcium or octa calcium phosphates, hydroxyl apatite and eventually least soluble apatites (Hinsinger, 2011). The aim of the study was to extract the P forms soil using the sequential extraction method, and to identify the factors responsible to the formation of P pools in soils. Moreover, evaluating Olsen-P and P fractions can predict the bioavailability of P fractions by giving quantitative information on the dynamic process of the P replenishing ability (Yan et al., 2020).\r\nMATERIAL AND METHODS\r\nRock phosphate. Three rock phosphates (RP) were used for the study, out of which two Udaipur grade I with 26% P2O5 and II with 27.48% P2O5 were used and one is from Jhabua (M.P) with 11.68% P2O5. Udaipur RP (URP) was obtained from Rajasthan State Mines and Minerals Ltd, Udaipur, Rajasthan, India; and Jhabua RP (JRP) was obtained from Jhabua, M.P., India. All the three RPs were used for the incubation study.\r\nAnalysis of physico-chemical properties of soil of study area\r\nAvailable Phosphorus. The available P in soil was extracted using the Olsen’s reagent (0.5 M NaHCO3) (Olsen et al., 1954) for the neutral soil. The P content in the extracts was determined using the ascorbic acid blue colour method (Watanabe and Olsen, 1965). The intensity of the blue color developed was determined by a spectrophotometer at 660 nm wavelength.\r\nFractionation of Inorganic P. Soil inorganic P was fractionated into various fractions by modified P fractionation scheme by Kuo (1996). The procedure is depicted through the flow chart (Fig. 1).\r\nSaloid means loosely-bound P, occluded P means P occluded in Fe/ Al oxides while residual P means P from the soil residue remaining after the last acid extraction which was digested with H2SO4/ H2O2 at 360°C (Soremia et al., 2017). All the inorganic P fractions was determined as per the ascorbic acid blue colour method as described above. The maximum colour intensity developed after 10 min and was measured using a spectrophotometer at 660 nm wavelength.The fractions of P i.e., Saloid-P, Al-P, Fe-P and Ca-P were analyzed in soils. Results showed the P pools in abundance. From analysis of soil result was: Ca-P> Res P> Al-P> Fe-P> Saloid-P which value was 39.4>34.4>20.9>13.6>10.5 kg ha-1 and percent contribution 30.71> 26.91> 16.29> 10.60> 8.18 of total-P, respectively.\r\nRESULTS AND DISCUSSION \r\nAmong the various forms, Ca-P fraction was dominant fraction in the soil which ranged from 40.41 to 42.61 kgha-1, Compared to other P fractions Saliod-P was present in a small quantity which ranged from 11.02 to 13.81 kgha-1, the contribution of Fe-P in phosphorus fractions is about 29.28 to 31.48 kgha-1 followed by Al-P which ranged from 17.78 to 19.86 kgha-1. The dominance of different inorganic P fractions in soil followed the order: Ca-P> Fe-P > Al-P> Saloid-P. Among the various treatments, FYM has maximum contribution in Saloid (13.34 kg ha-1), Al-P (19.29 kg ha-1), Fe-P (29.65 kg ha-1) and Ca-P (40.82 kg ha-1) fraction.\r\nEffect of RPs and organics on P pools in soils at the end of incubation experiment. The data pertaining to distribution of different pools of phosphorus is given in Table 2. The alkaline nature (soil reaction) of soils tends to precipitate the available phosphorus as Ca-P and least as saloid-P similarly reported by Sarkar (2002). Similar findings were reported by Kanwar and Garewal (1990), they reported that the Ca-P fraction increased with addition of P fertilizer as well as increase in pH, on ageing Ca-P increased up to 15-30 day. The result is in conformity with findings of Chang and Tomar (2007), Trivedi et al. (2010). The dominance of different inorganic P fractions in soils followed the order: Ca-P> Fe-P > Al-P> Saloid-P. Among the various treatments, FYM has maximum contribution in Saloid, Fe P, Al P and Ca P fraction. The content of the Ca-P ranks highest which was an indication of the fact that Ca-P form contributed to the major source of P in black soil as reported by Garg and Milkha (2010).\r\nThe organic fraction generally constitutes 20-80% of P in surface horizon (Brady and Weil, 2002). The process of soluble phosphate anion being bound with soil constituent so, that they become insoluble and unavailable to the plants. Several mechanisms like precipitation, dissolution, adsorption-desorption, immobilization and mineralization reactions occurred (Kanwar and Reddy, 2003). Variation in P fraction is the pedogenic manifestation (Walker and Syres 1976), stage of soil development (Smeck 1976) and age of soil. As the soil mature the Ca-P gets transformed into Al-P and sesquioxide bond phosphorus with maturity of soils. Changes in the P pools in soils are significantly affected by soil type. In general, total P content is low in strongly weathered soils orders and high in young soil. \r\nIn acid soils among the different forms of P, Fe-P dominates. In India Alfisols with pH ranging from 5.5 to 6.8 the order of soil P distribution was Fe-P> Ca-P> Al-P. The presence of clay, Al, Fe and sesquioxides is responsible for fixation of applied P (Doddamani and Seshagiri Rao, 1996). The availabilities of P also depend on soil pH, type of clay minerals, Fe, Al hydroxides and calcium carbonates (Kaistha et al. 1997).\r\nTherefore the response of phosphorus in different soils varies and the crop response varies. But, in case of slightly acidic soils, applied phosphorus gradually reacts with Fe and Al compounds present in the soil and consequently, gets transformed into relatively insoluble compounds (variscite and strengite), which are hardly available to plants. Reddy et al. (2000) reported that the Vertisols of Bhopal of which about 18% is tied-up in organic form. Sarkar (2002) concluded that the saloid-P was very low in comparison to all other forms of inorganic soil P and varied from 1.5 to 2.8 mg kg-1 which might be due to high P-fixing capacity of chotanagpur plateau soils. Lakshminarayana (2007) suggested that minimum amount of P is in the saloid fraction (S-P), whereas maximum amount is in reductant soluble form (RS-P) in the soil and such high values may be attributed to the acidic to neutral soil reaction and high content of Fe2O3. Sarkar et al. (2014) revealed that the mean relative abundance followed the order: RS-P> Fe-P> occluded-P> Ca-P> Al-P> S-P. The soil is fairly rich in total P reserve but the available P status is low, the overall contribution of the inorganic soil P fractions to the total soil P is 57.75%. Singh et al. (2015) indicated that the release of P in alluvial and black soil was of higher degree of magnitude than that of red soil. Thakur et al. (1975) observed that in rice culture at Jabalpur (Madhya Pradesh), the Fe-P fraction formed the major portion of native inorganic soil P fractions, Al-P Fe-P and Ca-P fractions increased with the addition of P fertilizers. Goswami and Sahrawat, (1982.) indicated that Ca-P was the dominant form followed by Fe-P with very low amount of Al-P.\r\n','Neeta Mahawar, G.S. Tagore, Jajati Keshari Nayak, Suresh Kumawat, Mahesh Kumar Mimrot and Sumitra Kumawat (2022). Fractionation of different Inorganic Pools of Phosphorus in Vertisols with different Organic Sources. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 14(2): 891-895.'),(4973,'125','Insect Visitor’s Diversity on Blossom of Acacia senegal (L.) Willd (Kumat) in Rajasthan, India','Shiwani Bhatnagar*, Sangeeta Singh, Ameen Ullah Khan, Lokendra Singh Rathore, Neha Sharma and Imran','153 Insect Visitor’s Diversity on Blossom of Acacia senegal _L._ Willd _Kumat_ in Rajasthan, India Shiwani Bhatnagar.pdf','',1,'The insects are the most dominant and important animals on the earth and affects the human life directly or indirectly. Acacia senegal flowers are cross-pollinated and visited by number of insect for collecting nectar and pollen rewards. It has low fruit set ratio due to a high degree of self-incompatibility and largely depends on cross pollination by insects for fruit setting. Present study focuses on studying diversity of insect visitors of A. senegal. The data collected revealed that the most predominantly insects visiting the blossom belongs to insect order Hymenoptera & Diptera. Among Hymenoptera different species of honey bees are the most abundant flower visiting insects.','Acacia senegal, Insect visitors','As little is known about the diversity and abundance of insect pollinators in forest habitats in this area, the present study was focused on forest ecosystems, which are least disturbed by humans and livestock. Wild native insect visitors are also listed in study as all of them contribute to overall pollination in natural forest as well as plantation ecosystems. Thus current study serves as a baseline for future conservation programs regarding sustainable forest management in the region as insect pollinators not only provide an essential ecosystem service but also play a part in the maintenance of biodiversity and ensures the survival of plant species. ','INTRODUCTION\r\nIn nature, the majority of flowering plant species sets seeds only by cross pollination aided by insect pollinators. Without this facility, cross pollinated tree species will not be able to survive and uphold their status in ecosystem. The climate of Rajasthan is usually hot and dry with low amount of rainfall and extreme temperatures in both summer and winter. However, even in the adverse climatic conditions this “Marudhar” offers diverse flora for maintaining insect biodiversity. As insect multiplicity forms an important component of the terrestrial ecosystem therefore it is of immense importance to assess composition of inhabiting insect visitors of important cross pollinated tree species of Rajasthan. \r\nA. senegal (L.) Willd. is a deciduous tree belonging to family Leguminosae. Its pods are one of the most important ingredients of the famous Panchkutta and Trikuta Marwari vegetable and hold nutritional importance, therefore considered as a very important tree species of Rajasthan. It is distributed in the hilly and plain tracts in Aravalli and western Rajasthan (Bhandari, 1978). It grows to a height of 15 m and bears yellowish-white fragrant flowers arranged in axillary spikes. A. senegal is self-incompatible and fruit set is low because of insufficient pollination (Shivanna et al., 2001). As it is cross-pollinated in nature and largely depends on pollination by insects for successful fertilization and fruit set, hence assessment of insect visitor’s diversity on its blossom holds high importance. Also, pollination service provided by insects is widely acknowledged, not only for normal functioning of ecosystem, but also for the betterment of species by way of cross pollination. Pollinators comprise highly diverse groups of animal species that transfer pollen in flowering plants (Ollerton, 2017). There is a mutual interaction between plants and pollinator which is valued for increasing food production and maintaining ecosystem functions to support global biodiversity (Ollerton, 2017). Gómez et al., (2007); Celep et al., (2020) reported that plants visited by a diverse pollinator community produce higher quality and quantity of seeds .Thus for conserving and supporting biodiversity in our nature as well as for predicting the effects of loss in biodiversity in view of climate change there is a need to study interactions between plants and their insect pollinators (Fründ et al., 2010) in particular areas. Around the globe there is a dependency upon insect pollinators for enhancing fruit setting in crops (Potts et al., 2009) and a decline in pollinator abundance and diversity will definitely have a bad impact on productivity of crops as well as trees. Anthropogenic modifications in nature have already affected the biodiversity of many insect pollinators (Biesmeijer et al., 2006). Therefore present study is officious at this juncture to record diversity and abundance of insect visitor’s of A. senegal in forest habitats of this area to conserve their biodiversity. \r\nMATERIAL AND METHODS\r\nThe field experiment was carried out on Acacia senegal at Kaylana Kumathiya enclosure, Jodhpur, Rajasthan. For assessing the diversity insect specimens were collected during the blossoming period of A.senegal in the month of August-September at different hours of day starting from early morning till evening (data were recorded 6 days after anthesis up to 90% flowering was over). The entire specimen collected were arranged systematically and identified. Abundance of prevalent insect orders visiting A. senegal flowers was also recorded. For this purpose, the field experiment was laid in RBD design and five plots of 30×30m were selected randomly. Thereafter, three branches on trees of each plot were marked and the numbers of insects visiting the flowers of each plot within 5 minutes were recorded in forenoon, afternoon and evening. The data was subjected to ANNOVA and evaluated at 5% significance.\r\nRESULT AND DISCUSSION \r\nA. senegal bears creamy-white, bisexual and pentamerous flowers which are arranged spirally on a spicate inflorescence. Every anther is eight loculed and each one locule bears one polyad, holding 16 pollen grains. Flowering was observed in the end of July and it continued till September offering both nectar and pollen grains as rewards for visiting insects. Studies on insect diversity on Acacia senegal flowers revealed that visitors activity started at flower anthesis stage and continued till flower dehiscence.\r\nOn A. senegal 50 species of insect visitors belonging to 5 insect orders viz., 5 families: 15 genus of order Hymenopteran; 5 families: 7 genus of order Coleopterans; 6 families: 18 genus of order Lepidopteran; 4 families: 4 genus of order Diptera and 1 family: 1 genus of order Hemiptera (Table 1) were recorded. Earlier Parihar and Singh (1998) have reported only 15 species of insects visiting the flowers of A. senegal. Tak and Jindal (2014) studied that A. senegal is a cross-pollinated tree species and pollination service is being done mostly in day time by insect visiting it. Tandon and Shivanna (2001) studied the pollination biology and breeding system of A. senegal and reported that Apis dorsata, is the effective pollinator in A. senegal. \r\nThough bees belonging to insect order hymenoptera are most abundant insect visitor on A. senegal and are also believed to be the most effective pollinators; however, other insect visitors viz, are butterflies & moths (Lepidoptera), some flies (Diptera), and beetles (Coleoptera) role in pollination cannot be considered negligible, as they help to boost pollination and in return gets pollen and nectar as floral rewards (Rader, 2016; Mallinger, 2019; Jacques, 2017; Cook, 2020). Insect pollinator diversity augments pollination at the time of environmental and climatic swings and also improves quality and quantity of fruit/pod yield. Therefore knowledge of insect pollinators of local tree species and their conservation is of utmost importance.\r\nBelow are the insect orders and insect families which were observed during present study on A. senegal.\r\nHymenopteran: In this order following families of insect were recorded visiting the blossom of A.senegal either for collecting pollen or nectar or both.\r\n1. Family Apidae: It is the largest family within the super family Apoidea (Danforth et al., 2013). The Apis spp. for the reason that they are abundant in number and has distinct morphology for the collection of pollen i.e pollen basket and hairy body & visit many flowering plants owing to varied food preference, represent the most important group of insect pollinators (Singh et al., 1999; Bosch et al., 2006).The family includes some bees, including bumblebees and honey bees, and also includes stingless bees, carpenter bees, orchid bees, cuckoo bees (Danforth et al., 2013; http:// BugGuide.Net assessed on 27.1.2022). \r\nSub-family Xylocopinae: It includes Carpenter bees belonging to the genus Xylocopa (Apidae: Xylocopinae) (Leys et al., 2000). Carpenter bees have several advantages in comparison with other non-Apis bees, in pollination of crops, as they feed on a wide range of plant species. Somanathan (2019) described that carpenter bees also have the ability to buzz-pollinate flowers. Resende (2001) and Beggs (2001) reported that they can behave as flower visitors as well as predators. \r\n2. Family Megachilidae: It is a cosmopolitan family and frequently known as mason bees and leafcutter bees. Megachilds are solitary bees and have scopa on the ventral surface of abdomen for carrying pollen. Megachilds can be carder bees or resin bees. \r\n3. Family Halicitidae: It is the second biggest group of metallic and non-metallic bees. They build nest in the soil and sometimes in rotting wood. They may be solitary or semi-social communal or eusocial (Michener 1974; Schwarz et al., 2007). They have a strongly curved basal vein in the wing as a distinctive feature (https:// entnemdept.ufl.edu/ creatures/ misc/ bees/ halictid_bees.htm., assesed on 2.2.22)\r\n4. Family Formicidae: The ants are characterized by elbowed antennae, a peduncle between the thorax and the abdomen, a narrow constriction between the gaster and thorax and a petiole (http://ces.iisc.ernet.in/thresi/antsOfIISc/Diagnostic_characters_of_Formicidae.htm, assessed on 2.2.2022). Formicidae are considered as the most divergent ecosystem engineers playing a very imperative role in improving soil quality and aiding in decomposition process (Watanasit et al., 2000). Ants are regarded as decomposer and pollinator (Mohyuddin et al., 2020). \r\n5. Family: Vespidae: This family includes eusocial wasps and solitary wasps (Pickett et al., 2004). They have a noticeable ‘U-shape’ to the posterior margin of the pronotum and forewings fold in half longitudinally. Many species in this family are reported to be pollen vectors of a number of plants and considered as effective pollinators (Suhs et al., 2009), while some others are important predators viz., yellow jackets wasp, paper wasps, potter wasps etc. \r\nLepidoptera: It includes both moths and butterflies. The butterflies are thought to be good indicators of environment change. Butterflies are seen as the most enthralling and beautiful insects. By means of their wings butterflies serve as pollinators (Santos et al., 2020). \r\n1. Family Nymphalidae: It is the largest family of butterflies and called as “Four Footed Butterflies” (Wolfe et al., 2011). Many nymphalid species are judged as model systems in evolutionary and ecological reports (Boggs et al., 2003). \r\n2. Family Papilionidae: The swallowtail butterflies are relatively large in size with characteristic “tail” on the back of each hind wing. All species feeds on nectar and are mostly non-migrant species (Rajeswari and Jeyabalan 2017).\r\n3. Family Pieridae: Butterflies of this family are white, yellow or orange in color, often with black spots (Carter, 2000). They pollinate the flowers on which they feed (Shah et al., 2001).\r\n4. Family Lycaenidae: It is the second-largest family of butterflies and is known as \'blues\' or gossamer-winged, while some species may be popular by the names as \'coppers or hairstreaks butterflies. The top surface of their wings is usually blue, but sometimes it may be purple or red (https://www.ento.csiro.au/education/insects/ lepidoptera_families/ lycaenidae.html, assessed on 2.2.2022).\r\n5. Family Crambidae: They are the family of grass moth. They have scales on the proboscis at base and tympanal organs at base of abdomen (http:// BugGuide.Net assessed on 27.1.2022)\r\n6. Family Geometridae: It is macrolepidopterans family of moths (Van Nieukerken et al., 2011). They have typically uniform shape & posture and have triangular forewings. While resting their wings are stretched out and flat against the surface. Many adults are green in colour with speckled designs to mélange with their background (ento.csiro.au/ education/ insects/ lepidoptera_families/ geometridae.html, assessed on 2.2.2022).\r\nColeoptera: Coleoptera are the most diverse insect orders and their part in pollination is gradually being acknowledged. Beetles contribute to pollination of more than 184 species of angiosperms (Dieringer et al., 1999). \r\n1. Family Buprestidae: It is a family of jewel beetles or metallic wood-boring beetles for the reason that their body colors are lustrous and sparkling. Adult body shape is usually cylindrical to ovoid. Adult jewel beetles primarily feed on plant foliage or nectar. Some can also be observed visiting flowers for pollen gathering. Buprestids are mostly metallic in shade, rigid and heavily sclerotized with varying size and shape. (Karam et al., 2010).\r\n2. Family Meloidae: It is a family of blister beetles. Meloids are elongate, parallel-sided beetles with a slender pronotum.. Blister beetles are hypermetamorphic and their adult beetles feed on nectar and pollen of various floral resources. \r\n3. Family Scarabaeidae: They are often called scarabs or scarab beetles. They have stout-body metallic colour, and clubbed antennae (lamellae). Adult are nocturnal except flower chafers and leaf chafers. Some adults have horns on the head or pronotum are present to battle over mates or resources (bugguide.net Family Scarabaeidae - Scarab Beetles, accessed on 2.2.22). \r\nHemiptera: Only few reports quote hemipterans as pollinators (Yasunaga, 1997). Fahn and Shimony (2001) accounted that hemipteran are the main flower visitors in Ecballium elaterium (Curcurbitaceae), yet their contribution as pollinators is doubtful. Additionally Anderson et al., (2003) illustrates that hemipteran larvae noshing on pollen aid selfing in Roridula (Roridulaceae). Ishida et al., (2009) stated that the most abundant flower visitors of Macaranga (Euphorbiaceae) inflorescences were Orius atratus (Anthocoridae, Hemiptera), followed by Decomioides schneirlai (Miridae, Hemiptera).\r\n1. Family Pentatomidae: It is the largest family in the superfamily Pentatomoidea (Foottit and Adler, 2009). Pentatomids have piercing sucking mouthparts, 5-segmented antennae, triangular scutellum, shield like body, 3 tarsal segments on each foot (https://bugguide.net retrieved on 25.1.22). \r\nDiptera: Flies continually have played noteworthy roles as food for wildlife, as primary and secondary consumers, recyclers of nutrients (Anderson and Vondracek, 1999; Batzer et al., 1992; De Szalay and Resh, 1997; Euliss et al., 1991). The flies are directly significant as pollinator (Sengupta et al; 2019) of many crops. Today, flies are positioned as the third largest and most diverse animal groups in the world (Skevington and Dang, 2002) comprising over 160,000 named species in approximately 150 families (Evenhuis et al., 2008).\r\n1. Family Syrphidae: It is one of the largest families of the insect order Diptera and commonly known as hoverflies, flower flies or Sun flies. They have a Vena spuria as a distinctive feature in membranous wing. Hoverflies are regarded as the most anthophilous family (Larson, et al., 2001). Episyrphus balteatus DeGeer is one of the most common hoverfly species and is considered as a potential insect pollinator of many crops all over the globe (Hodgkiss, 2018). In India hoverflies build up 4.90% of the known Dipteran fauna (Sengupta et al., 2016a, Banerjee et al., 2018). Though they are acknowledged as the second most important insect pollinator group after bees, but the data on the pollination potential of syrphids is still lacking (Raguso, 2020; Klecka et al., 2018) and their contribution towards food security is ignored.\r\n2. Family Muscidae: It is one of the main dipteran families having three-segmented antennae and aristate. House fly, M. domestica (Muscidae), play a significant role in mango pollination, and considered as effective as bees in mango pollination (Dag and Gazit 2000).\r\n3. Family Calliphoridae: Heine (1937) has reported Calliphorids foraging in the wild with large amounts of pollen on their bodies. They have an extending proboscis with sponging or lapping mouth parts that helps to make broad contact with the interior of the flower (Graham-Smith, 1930). They have several body setae which vary with species type (Lutz et al., 2018) \r\n4. Family Bombyliidae: They are commonly called as bee flies. At rest, many species keep their wings at a \"swept back\" angle. They vary in size from very small (2 mm) to very large (40 mm) (Weaving et al., 2003; Hull and Montgomery, 1973). \r\nAbundance of insect pollinators: During blooming period of Acacia senegal, insect visitors were recorded foraging for nectar or pollen or both on the flowers. In present study insect visitor’s assemblages were diverse with representatives from the orders Hymenoptera, Diptera, Lepidoptera, hemiptera and Coleoptera visiting the bloom (Table 2, Fig. 1). Abundance of hymenopteran insect visitors dominates in forenoon, afternoon and evening time followed by dipteran, hemiptera and lepidoptera. Among Hymenoptera different species of honey bees are the most abundant flower visiting insects. The minimum number of insect visiting the bloom was of order coleoptera. On A.senegal insect flowers visitors were observed belonging to three main groups: pollen and flower feeders (bees, flies and beetles), nectar feeder (butterflies and bees) and opportunistic feeders (ants and wasp). \r\nThe above study is in line with the previous studies by different researchers. Though honey bees are vital insect pollinators of many crops and fruit plants (Shaheen et al., 2017, Khan et al., 2012), flies are also key pollinators of more than 100 cultivated plants, including fruit trees and crops like mango, cashew, tea, cacao, apple, onions, and strawberries (Larson et al., 2001). In a study on diversity and abundance of beneficial insects in forest ecosystem of Madhya Pradesh, Kumar and Bhowate (2020) reported that in forest ecosystem Apis dorsata plays an important role as a key stone species. Duara (2017) reported that among all groups butterflies were found to be more in forest area of nambor wild life sanctuary, Assam and Urban areas. There is a positive correlation between plant species richness and diversity of plant-visiting insects (Fründ et al., 2010). Also, pollinator diversity plays an important role in seed production in flowering plants (Blitzer et al., 2016). Therefore to combat anthropogenic alterations in climates and habitats which has resulted in reductions in the pollinator population abundance and biodiversity of many pollinator families worldwide (Biesmeijer et al., 2006), we need to focus on studies related to diversity, richness and conservation of insect pollinators in their natural habitat.\r\n','Shiwani Bhatnagar, Sangeeta Singh, Ameen Ullah Khan, Lokendra Singh Rathore, Neha Sharma1 and Imran (2022). Insect Visitor’s Diversity on Blossom of Acacia senegal (L.) Willd (Kumat) in Rajasthan, India. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 14(2): 896-904.'),(4974,'125','Leucobacter aridicollis strain SASBG215: A Novel biocontrol agent against Colletotrichum orbiculare','Abdul Salam S.*, Parthiban V.K., Paranidharan V., Johnson I., Karthikeyan M. and Kavitha C.','154 Leucobacter aridicollis strain SASBG215 A Novel biocontrol agent against Colletotrichum orbiculare Abdul Salam S.pdf','',1,'In India, bottle gourd is a common cucurbitaceous vegetable that is sensitive to a variety of fungi. Colletotrichum sp., a common anthracnose disease on various crops, was discovered in Coimbatore, Tamil Nadu, causing unusual symptoms such as leaf spots, vertical water-soaked streaks on petioles, stems, crotches and severe stem splitting at the crown area. Farmers apply fungicides indiscriminately to control the disease, raising the expense of cultivation and leaving residues in the produce. The goal of this work was to find a successful bacterial endophyte against the disease that addresses the two challenges of high input cost and residues in a reasonable manner. An endophyte, Leucobacter aridicollis strain SASBG215, reduced the mycelial growth of Colletotrichum orbiculare by 73.51 percent in dual culture assays. GC-MS analysis of excised agar from the inhibition zone revealed the real metabolites suppressing the pathogen. Eleven distinct metabolites were profiled in GC-MS analysis, including Clindamycin; 4-Octanol, 4,7-dimethyl-; Pentanoic acid, propyl ester; 2,3,4,4-Tetramethyl-pentane-1,3-diol; Sucrose; 1-Pentanol, 2-methyl-, acetate; Cyclohexanol, 2-(2-propynyloxy)-, trans-; Cyclohexanol, 2-(2-propyn. Suitable organic formulations of Leucobacter aridicollis can be included in the management schedule of this pathogen.','Colletotrichum orbiculare, Leucobacter aridicollis, Biocontrol, GC-MS, dual culture','In this study, 15 bottle gourd bacterial endophytes were isolated and tested in dual confrontation tests for their efficiency against the bottle gourd stem splitting pathogen, Colletotrichum orbiculare. Using the 16s rRNA universal primers 27F and 1492R, one of the effective endophytes was identified as Leucobacter aridicollis. Additionally, metabolic profiling of biomolecules using gas chromatography and mass spectrometry found a number of antifungal chemicals. The prominent compounds were viz., Procyclidine, 2-furanmethanol, 1-Pentanol, 2-methyl-, acetate and Acetic acid, hydroxy[(1-oxo-2-propenyl) amino]- with antibacterial and antifungal properties, Clindamycin with nematicidal properties, Pentanoic acid, propyl ester known to inhibit conidial germination and fungal growth and sucrose known to be involved in plant defence responses.\r\nThis is the first report of a bacterial endophyte, Leucobacter aridicollis, being used as a biocontrol agent against Colletotrichum orbiculare and the soluble biomolecules it produces. More research is needed to understand the specific effects of these biomolecules against the test pathogen and to develop an organic-based spray composition for cucurbits in general.\r\n','INTRODUCTION\r\nBottle gourd (Lagenaria siceraria (Molina) Standl.) is a cucurbitaceous vegetable used in many tropical and temperate countries. Fruit contains vitamins, proteins, choline, minerals, terpenoids, flavonoids, etc. Triterpenoids, sterols, cucurbitacins, flavones, C-glycosides, and -glycosides have been identified from L. siceraria. Researchers have studied the plant\'s antianxiety, antidepressant, diuretic, antimicrobial, cytotoxic, antihyperlipidemic, cardioprotective, analgesic, anti-inflammatory, anti-helminthic, anti-hyperglycaemic, antihepatotoxic, anti-urolithiasis, antistress, antiulcer, anticancer, hepatoprotective, anthelmintic, immunomodulatory, and antioxidant properties (Zahoor et al., 2021). Despite its economic and medicinal importance, the crop is susceptible to a variety of fungal, bacterial, and viral diseases, including downy mildew, powdery mildew, leaf spots, Cucumber mosaic virus (CMV) etc., (Zitter et al., 1998; Saha, 2002).\r\nMicrobial communities are used as biocontrol agents, biofertilizers, bioinoculants, and stress modulators in agriculture and horticulture. Endophytes live in host tissues without generating infection. Endophytic communities have great potential as biocontrol agents and promote plant growth, making them a non-toxic choice for managing plant diseases. Endophytes are favoured over other plant growth promoting rhizobacteria for their better survival and adaption. Endophytic bacterial population from bottle gourd twigs was isolated and tested against stem splitting pathogen Colletotrichum orbiculare. Non-volatile compounds expressed in inhibitory zone were detected by GC-MS.\r\n \r\nMATERIALS AND METHODS \r\nColletotrichum orbiculare was isolated from symptomatic bottle gourd samples in Coimbatore, Tamil Nadu, during kharif season, 2020-21. The pathogen was isolated according to (Nuraini and Latiffah, 2018) with slight modifications. 5mm pieces from affected regions were cut with a sterile surgical blade and surface sterilized in 1% sodium hypochlorite solution for three minutes. Five minutes were spent drying surface-sterilized specimens on pre-sterilized blotting paper. These air-dried parts were cultured at room temperature on PDA plates and single hyphal tips were sub cultured for obtaining pure cultures.\r\nFor fungus identification, DNA was isolated using the CTAB method according to Mishra et al. (2014) and the nrITS region was amplified using primers viz., ITS1 (5’ CTTGGTCATTTAGAGGAAGTAA 3’) and ITS4 (5’ TCCTCCGCTTATTGATATGC 3’) (White et al., 1990). The reaction was carried out in Eppendorf® mastercycler with a 40μl reaction mixture consisting of 20μl Taq DNA polymerase master mix Red (Ampliqon®), 4μl forward primer, 4μl reverse primer, 4μl double distilled water and 8μl of genomic DNA. The PCR conditions include an initial denaturation at 95°C for 4 minutes followed by 35 cycles of denaturation at 95°C for 4 minutes; primer annealing at 62°C for 1 minute; extension at 72°C for 2 minutes and final extension at 72°C for 8 minutes. The PCR result was sequenced using ABI-3730 Prison automated DNA analyzer EBT Ver. 3.1. (Barcode Bio Science, Bangalore, India). The sequencing result was compared with NCBI-GenBank database using BLASTn algorithm (www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov) to acquire accession number. The bottle gourd bacterial endophytes were extracted from young leaves according to Sriskandarajah et al., (1993). Aseptically cut bottle gourd leaves were surface sterilized in 1% sodium hypochlorite for 3 minutes and rinsed in sterile distilled water. The pieces were then soaked in 70% ethyl alcohol for 1 minute and rinsed in sterile distilled water three times. Using sterile blotting paper, surface-sterilized plant fragments were dried and 1g of surface-sterilized leaf tissues were crushed with 5 ml of peptone salt buffer. 1ml of solution was poured plated with nutrient agar and incubated at 35°C for bacterial growth. Pure bacterial colonies were streaked steaked in fresh nutrient agar plates. Final wash water was poured plated in nutrient agar plates and cultured at 35°C for 24 hours to check sterility (Zhan-Bin et al., 2013).\r\nDual culture test was conducted in PDA plates with a 5mm fungal pathogen disc in the centre and 5µl of 8-hour-old actively growing bacterial endophyte culture on four sides of fungal disc 5mm away from petri plate rim. Control plates contained solely fungal discs. Once control plates were full, the diameter of fungal discs in dual culture plates was measured. Formula for calculating % inhibition is as follows.\r\n \r\nThe treatments were replicated three times, and the PDI was assessed and compared with CRD in OPSTAT software. \r\nFor establishing the identity of potent bacterial endophyte, total DNA was extracted by CTAB method of Doyle and Doyle, (1990). One ml of 24 h old actively growing bacteria in nutrient broth was put into 1.5 ml Eppendorf tube and centrifuged at 7000rpm for 10min to retain pellet. One ml of broth was added to same Eppendorf tube and centrifuged at 7000rpm for 10min to retain pellet. One ml of sterile water was added to pellet and centrifuged at 7000rpm for10 min to eliminate residues of broth and the pellet was suspended in 675µl of Genomic DNA buffer (CTAB) and incubated at 37°C for 30 min with vortexing at every 10 min interval. 75 µl of 10 per cent SDS was added and incubated at 65°C for two hours with vortexing at every 10 min. The tube was centrifuged at 11000 rpm for 10 min at 4°C and the supernatant was collected in fresh Eppendorf tube to which equal volume of Phenol: Chlorophorm: Isoamylalcohol (25:24:1) was added. The tube was inverted multiple times and centrifuged at 11000 rpm for 10 min at 4°C that led to creation of three phases. Aqueous phase was transferred to another Eppendorf tube and the DNA was precipitated by adding 0.6 volume of Isopropanol with incubation for one hour at -20°C. The tube was centrifuged at 12000 rpm for 15 min at 4°C to retain DNA pellet which was washed in 70 per cent ethyl alcohol twice. The DNA pellet was air dried and suspended in double sterilized distilled water for subsequent usage.\r\nThe extracted bacterial endophyte DNA was amplified in PCR with universal 16S rRNA primers 27F (5′-AGAGTTTGATCCTGGCTCAG-3′) and 1492R (5′-GGTTACCTTGTTACGACTT-3′) with following conditions: initial denaturation at 95°C for 5min, denaturation at 94°C for 30 seconds, primer annealing at 58°C for 30 seconds, extension at 72°C for 40 seconds and final chain extension at 72°C for 10min (Watanabe et al., 2001). The PCR was run with a 40µl reaction mixture containing 20µl Amplicon® oligonucleotide mixture, 4µl forward primer, 4µl reverse primer, 4µl double sterilized distilled water and 8 µl of bacterial DNA of 54ng/µl concentration. 5 μl of amplified PCR product was loaded on to 1.2% (w/v) ethidium bromide-stained agarose gel and electrophoresed at 75 V for 1.5 hours. The gel was visualized under UV light (UVITECH, Cambridge Inc.) for amplification of said region between the primers. The Amplified PCR product was sequenced in ABI-3730 Prison automated DNA analyser EBT Ver. 3.1 (Barcode Bio Science, Bangalore, India). The resulting sequence was edited with BIOEDIT software to obtain full length sequence of 16S rRNA of the endophyte. The sequence was compared with NCBI-GenBank database using blastn algorithm (www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov) and was submitted to obtain accession number. The nucleotide sequence was searched for sequence homology using BLAST search against Gen Bank database (http://www.ncbi.nih.gov/BLAST). The related bacterial 16S rRNA gene sequences retrieved from the GenBank database were used for phylogenetic analysis. The phylogenetic tree was constructed with bootstrap for 1000 times using the neighbor-joining method (Saitou and Nei, 1987; Tamura et al., 2011) and compared in MEGA XI software.\r\nGC-MS analysis was used to estimate secondary metabolites responsible for real pathogen inhibition. The approach of Cawoy et al., (2014) for extracting samples from inhibitory zones was followed with minor adjustments. 10g of Agar samples from the inhibitory zone were combined with 100ml of acetonitrile: water (1:1; v/v) in a 100ml flask. This mixture was sonicated twice for 30 seconds at 30% of the device\'s power (Bandelin Sonoplus HD 2070). To remove any agar particles, the samples were homogenized (vortex), centrifuged, and filtered. The obtained filtrates were analysed using GC-MS on a PerkinElmer Claurus SQ8C instrument. This instrument had a DB-5 MS non-polar capillary column with the following dimensions: 30mts length × ID 0.25 mm × film 0.25 mm IM. The carrier gas was helium, and the injection rate was 1 microliter per minute. The compounds particularly expressed in successful endophyte fungal inhibition zone were computed using peaks obtained from PDA where fungus alone was grown, interaction zone, and PDA where endophyte alone was cultivated. The data system\'s inbuilt libraries for searching and matching the spectrum were the NIST ms/ms database, mainlib, and replib EI libraries. Compounds with spectral fit values of 700 or higher were considered for identification using the MS data library and comparison of the spectrum acquired through.\r\nPlant growth promotion parameters of bacterial endophyte (Qualitative tests) were conducted following standard protocols. Production of IAA, catalase, amylase, cellulase, nitrogen fixation and phosphate solubilization were carried out according procedures laid down in Digar et al. (2013). For assaying IAA production, endophytic bacteria was inoculated in YMD broth tube aseptically and incubated at 35°C. 1ml of supernatant was mixed with 2ml of Salkowski’s reagent (2% 0.5 FeCl3 in 35% HClO4 solution) and maintained in dark. The optical density (OD) was recorded at 530nm after 30min and 120min to determine IAA production. For assaying catalase production, endophytic bacteria was streaked on nutrient agar slant and incubated at 35°C for 24 hrs. 1 % Hydrogen Peroxide was flooded on the actively growing bacteria to observe bubble formation. For assaying amylase production, endophytic bacteria was streaked on nutrient agar media enriched with starch@ 2g/l and incubated at 35°C for 24 hrs. Next day the plates were flooded with Iodine reagent to observe clear zone around streaks. For assaying cellulase production, endophytic bacteria was streaked on CMC agar media plates and incubated at 35°C for 24 hrs. Production of clear zone around colonies and degradation of Cango Red indicated a positive reaction. Similarly, production of clear zone around bacterial streaks on YEMA plates (yeast extract mannitol agar) and on Pikovaskya agar media plates after incubation at 35°C for 24 hrs indicated bacterial production of nitrogen and phosphorous from the media respectively.\r\nAmmonia production was assayed according to (Hansen, 1930). endophytic bacteria was inoculated in nutrient broth and incubated at 35°C for 24 hrs. Development of yellow colour up on addition of Nessler’s reagent indicated ammonia production. Production of Acetoin and 2,3 butanediol were done according to procedures of Shanmugaraj et al., (2021). The endophytic bacteria was inoculated in sterilized MRVP broth tubes and incubated at 35°C for 24 hrs. Development of cherry red colour after addition of VP-1 reagent (alpha naphthol) and VP-2 reagent (40% potassium hydroxide) reagent indicated positive reaction\r\nProduction of chitinase was assayed according to Chernin et al., (1995). The endophytic bacteria was streaked on colloidal chitin agar medium and incubated at 35°C for 24 hrs. Production of clear zone around streaked colonies indicated a positive reaction. Zinc solubilization was assayed according to (Fasim et al., 2002). Endophytic bacteria was streaked on Tris- minimal medium supplemented separately with zinc oxide (ZnO) [1.244 /l] = 15.23mM and zinc phosphate Zn3 (PO4)2[1.9882 g/l] = 5.0mM at a concentration equivalent to 0.1% Zn. After incubation at 35°C for 24 hrs, production of clear zone around colonies indicated a positive reaction. Production of protease was assayed according to Denizci et al. (2004). Endophytic bacteria was streaked on Skim Milk agar (SMA: 100% sterile of 900 mL media tryptic soy agar (TSA), 10% concentration of 100 mL of sterile skim milk) plates and incubated at 35°C for 24 hrs. Production of clear zone around colonies indicated a positive reaction\r\nThe design of the experiment and the statistical analysis was performed using OPSTAT software package. The comparative analysis of volatile compounds was followed using ClustVis online (https://www.biit.cs.ut.ee/clustvis/). \r\nRESULTS AND DISCUSSIONS \r\nThe fungal growth from the infected twigs was sub cultured on to fresh PDA plates. The growth of the fungus on PDA medium was whitish for seven days. Later, turned to olivaceous green and then brown colour. Dark brown to orange colour spore masses produced as ooze are seen after 30days of growth. The conidia were hyaline, single celled, oval with rounded ends (Fig. 1 a-e). The pathogen produced all the typical symptoms viz., leaf spots, vertical water-soaked streaks on petioles, stems, crotches and splitting of stem at crown region. Subsequently, same pathogen had been reisolated fulfilling Koch’s postulates. The fungal DNA was clearly amplified with ITS1 and ITS4 primers, the amplified product was sequenced and compared in NCBI blastn search to establish the molecular identity of the pathogen as Colletotrichum orbiculare. The sequence was submitted in NCBI database with accession number ON398802.\r\nNow a days indiscriminate use of plant protection chemicals has increased many folds which can cause health hazards, on the other hand biological control of the plant pathogens is a healthier solution where microorganisms or their products will be deployed against plant pathogens (Bahadir torun et al., 2018; Ved Ratan et al., 2018). Endophytes have dual advantage of quick adaption in host tissues and resist invading plant pathogens through encouraging plant defences and plant growth promotion.Fifteen bacterial endophytes were isolated from bottle gourd and tested for their efficacy against Colletotrichum orbiculare in dual culture tests. The bacterial endophytic strains SASBG201, SASBG203 and SASBG215 recorded 73.29, 71.08 and 73.51 per cent reduction of radial mycelial growth over control respectively (Table 1 and Fig. 2). \r\nThe DNA from bacterial endophytic strain SASBG215 was amplified with 16S rRNA universal primers 27F and 1492R which showed a clear band at 1500bp in agarose gel electrophoresis (Fig. 3). The BLASTn search of sequenced product NCBI database showed a close similarity with Leucobacter aridicollis. The sequence was submitted in NCBI database with accession number ON171370 with strain name SASBG215. The phylogenetic tree was built by neighbor joining method with 16 other Leucobacter spp. sequences showed a close cluster(s) formation in MEGA XI software. The strain SASBG215 showed close lineage with HE858276.1 Leucobacter aridicollis strain BO2 reported previously from Nigeria (Fig. 4). \r\nThe Leucobacter aridicollis strain SASBG215 was further analyzed for plant growth promoting characteristics where, it showed positive for production of IAA, amylase, catalase, acetoin, nitrogen, cellulase, and for 2, 3, Butane diol. The bacterial strain was negative for production of ammonia, chitinase, protease, Zn solubilization and phosphate solubilization. An endophyte equipped with antifungal abilities along with plant growth promotion activities will be more advantageous and easily incorporated in integrated disease management strategies. Similarly, plant growth promotion of endophytes was previously discussed by many authors (Digar singh et al., 2013; Shanmugaraj et al., 2021).\r\nThe antifungal activity of Leucobacter aridicollis strain SASBG215 against Colletotrichum orbiculare was validated in a dual culture bioassay, and it was almost probably attributable to soluble non-volatile biomolecules produced by the endophytic bacteria. Gas chromatography and mass spectrometry (GC-MS) profiling was used to further determine the chemical composition of the metabolites. The NIST library identified most of the metabolites by similarity index of 85% and most probable hits. A total of 2069 compounds were profiled from different treatment combinations viz., Leucobacter aridicollis strain 215 alone, Colletotrichum orbiculare alone and their interaction in dual culture assay. \r\nThe interaction of Leucobacter aridicollis strain SASBG215 and Colletotrichum orbiculare in dual culture assay produced 58 hits with 1302 compounds and the unique compounds profiled were (1) Procyclidine. It was reported as anticholinergic and antiparkinsonian drug (Suryawanshi et al., 2009) (2) 2-furanmenthanol. (Alijani et al., 2021) reported 2- furanmenthanol (30.305%) from methanol extracts as one of the main bioactive compounds produced by the endophyte, Bacillus atrophaeus strain DM6120 and it inhibited the growth of Colletotrichum nymphaeae.\r\n Antibacterial properties of 2-furanmethanol were discussed (Fatma et al., 2020); (3) 2-Thiazolidine Carboxamide, 2-methyl-. Thiazolidine derivatives have been widely discussed for their anticonvulsant, hypnotic, antitubercular and anthelmintic activity (Amit and Shailendra, 2008); (4) Acetic acid, hydroxy[(1-oxo-2-propenyl) amino]-. It constituted 8.88% in Brucea antidysenterica leaf oil and exhibited antibacterial and antifungal properties in dual culture experiments (Guluma et al., 2020); (5) Clindamycin. Saravanan et al. 2022 reported nematicidal properties of clindamycin against banana burrowing nematode, Radopholus similis. (6) 4-Octanol, 4,7-dimethyl-; (7) Pentanoic acid, propyl ester. Huang et al., (2011) reported the Pentanoic acid, 4-methyl, - ethyl ester highly inhibitory to conidial germination and mycelia growth of Botrytis cinerea. (8) 2,3,4,4-Tetramethyl-pentane-1,3-diol. This compound was earlier reported as responsible for bitterness in caramel colours (Li et al., 2021). (9) Sucrose. (Alexandra and Thierry, 2014) discussed the role of sucrose plant defence by activating plant immune responses against pathogens. (10) 1-Pentanol, 2-methyl-, acetate. (Nighat et al., 2016) attributed the antifungal activity of leaf extracts of Acasia nilotica subsp. indica against Sclerotium rolfsii to the presence of 1-Pentanol, 2-methyl-, acetate (14.80 per cent) in the leaf extracts. (11) Cyclohexanol, 2-(2-propynyloxy)-, trans-. (Huan et al. 2021) reported formation of cyclohexanols as essential in aged fragrance of Qingzhuan tea (QZT) during the whole post-fermentation process. \r\nThe said compounds viz., Procyclidine; 2-Furanmethanol; 2-Thiazolidinecarboxamide, 2-methyl-; Acetic acid, hydroxy[(1-oxo-2-propenyl) amino]-; Clindamycin; 4-Octanol, 4,7-dimethyl-; Pentanoic acid, propyl ester; 2,3,4,4-Tetramethyl-pentane-1,3-diol; Sucrose; 1-Pentanol, 2-methyl-, acetate; Cyclohexanol, 2-(2-propynyloxy)-, trans-. were not present individually either in endophyte or in pathogen but were profiled only during their interaction as represented in the chromatogram (Fig. 5). \r\nTwo compounds viz., dl-Glyceraldehyde dimer and 1,2,3-Propanetriol, 1-acetate were present in both endophyte and the pathogen but were over expressed during their interaction. A clear disparity observed between the bio molecules expressed in the interaction of Leucobacter aridicollis strain SASBG215 with Colletotrichum orbiculare when compared with individual organisms alone. This pattern was well represented in the heat map (Fig. 6). ','Abdul Salam S., Parthiban V.K., Paranidharan V., Johnson I., Karthikeyan M. and Kavitha C. (2022). Leucobacter aridicollis strain SASBG215: A Novel biocontrol Agent Against Colletotrichum orbiculare. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 14(2): 905-911.'),(4975,'125','Assessment of Genetic Variability for Growth and Yield Traits of Curry Leaf (Murraya koenigii L. Sperg) under Sodic Soil','D. Vidhya*, K. Indumathi, K. Gurusamy, P. Paramaguru and S. Geethanjali','155 Assessment of Genetic Variability for Growth and Yield Traits of Curry Leaf _Murraya koenigii L. Sperg_ under Sodic Soil D. Vidhya.pdf','',1,'Curry leaf is considered an underutilized tree spice cum medicinal plant and is found in most of the south Indian kitchen gardens. Like other major horticultural crops, this underutilized spice not getting attention with respect to its crop improvement. Due to its vast adaptability and distribution to the different soil, agroclimatic condition, and nutraceutical value, there is a scope for searching genotypes for sodic soil, which will be an alternate crop even for the salt affected soil. In addition to that curry leaf has natural variability in its growth, yield and biotic stress. Hence the assessment of genetic variability for growth and yield attributes of thirteen curry leaf genotypes were carried out in the present investigation at Horticultural College & Research Institute for Women, Trichy under salt affected soil. Among the plant growth attributes, the highest genotypic and phenotypic variances were recorded for plant height (879.16 and 955.64 cm), leaf area (308.81 and 329.90 cm2) and the number of mature shoots per plant (28.86 and 31.45) respectively. In this study, the PCV was relatively greater than GCV for all traits observed, however, GCV was near to PCV for the characters like plant height and leaf area inferred that high contribution of genotypic effect for phenotypic expression of such characters. The fresh leaf yield per plant had a significant and positive association with plant height (0.561 and 0.588 cm), plant girth (0.821 and 0.808 cm), internode length (0.651 and 0.596 cm), petiole length (0.732 and 0.753 cm), number of mature shoot per plant (0.647 and 0.665), number of compound leaves (0.455 and 0.544) and leaf area (0.455 and 0.544 cm2). Hence the study concluded that the selection of curry leaf genotypes for yield attributes has high heritability and genetic advance and has a significant positive association among the yield attributing characters which indicated the strong scope of a breeding program in curry leaf.','Genetic variability, Phenotypic Coefficient of Variation (PCV), Genotypic Coefficient of Variation (GCV), Genetic Advancement (GA), correlation, curry leaf','The study can be concluded as selection of curry leaf genotypes for yield attributes having high heritability and genetic advance also has significant positive association among the yield attributing characters. This will be more effective for have count ability for increasing variability and also to achieve the objective of selection of promising entries for further improvement of breeding programme.','INTRODUCTION\r\nCurry leafis botanically as Murraya koenigii L. Sperg has a wide distribution throughout India, both in wild and cultivated forms. It is a perennial tree spice cum medicinal plant and is versatile in nature (Chittaragi et al., 2022). A number of ‘landraces’ of this species are widely found in homestead gardens, especially in southern India. They areunder-utilized and under explored spice crops in terms of efforts towards their genetic improvement and area under cultivation.Generally, genetic resource of any crop plant includes gene pools of both domesticated and wild species. They are the potential resource of useful genes, which could be of immense use for the genetic improvement of crops. Vavilo (1926) stated that about 160 species of domesticated plants have originated in India. Among these, the tree spice, curry leaf constitutes a minor group of plant, which had its origin in India. In plant breeding program, it is essential to maintain a germplasm collection or have access to new material in the gene pool from which potential attributes may be incorporated into the crop (Simmonds, 1979 and Nandi et al., 2021). Evaluating the genetic variation in the germplasm is the first step toward understanding the scope and utility of material in the collection (Marshall, 1990). Information obtained from the analyses of genetic variability and molecular systematics of crop species will allow the breeders to understand better the biogeographical distribution, variability and historical development of the crop germplasm with which they are working, and to facilitate more efficient use of the available variability for the crop (Harlan, 1992; Devi et al., 2021).\r\nCurry leaf in India has ample genetic variability. Grouping of the curry leaf genotypes and the presence of variation among them indicated the strong scope for breeding programme (Chittaragi et al., 2021). In Tamil Nadu, curry leaf is mainly grown in Coimbatore, Erode, Madurai, Salem and Tiruchirappalli districts. The plantis rich in the volatile properties as well as antioxidants and it isutilized in our traditional systems of medicine too (Xie et al., 2006; Chittaragi et al., 2021). Every household of Indian kitchen were not satisfied without curry leaves. Because they are used for culinary purposes as a condiment. Recent past this high-value low volume crops are gaining prime value in the nutraceutical industries. The growing demand from the emerging segment of nutraceuticals is driving the global consumption of Indian spices.The curry leaf has vast adaptability and distribution to the different soil, agroclimatic condition, and its nutraceutical value, there is a scope for searching genotypes for salt affected soil, which will be an alternate crop even for the salt affected soil. In addition to that curry leaf has natural variability in its growth, yield and biotic stress.In this connection, it is a time to find out the genotypes which could meet the need of domestic and industrial needs. In addition to that finding the variability among the population is vital for further breeding work in curry leaf. With this view, an experiment was conducted at HC&RI (W), TNAU, Trichy, Tamil Nadu between 2016-2019with thirteen genotypes used to assess the variability, heritability, genetic advance and inter relationships between traits and the direct and indirect effects of some quantitative parameters.\r\nMATERIAL AND METHODS\r\nThe investigation was carried out to collect the different curry leaf genotypes across Tamilnadu between 2016-2019. Curry leafland races or genotypes collected from different locations were established at Horticultural College and Research Institute for Women, Tamilnadu Agricultural University, Trichy under sodic soil. The details of land races or genotypes collected were given in table 1. The plants were planted at a spacing of 1.5 × 1.5 m and all cultural practices were performed as per the standard package of practices. The research trial was laid out in randomized block design with three replications. The observations on growth and yield attributes viz., plant height (cm), plant girth (cm), internode length (cm), petiole length (cm), number of mature shoot per plant, number of compound leaf per plant, number of leaflet per compound leaf, leaf area and fresh yield per plant (g) were made in each replication. The mean data were used to assess the variability present among the population and subjected to correlation coefficient among the various traits observed in curry leaf. \r\nThe data recorded for each character was subjected to analysis of variance (ANOVA) using randomized complete block design to test the variations among genotypes. The analysis of variance was calculated using the procedure suggested by Panse and Sukhatme (1985). The genotypic and phenotypic variation were calculated by using the mean sum of square from variance table (Lush, 1940). The Phenotypic Coefficient of Variation (PCV) and Genotypic Coefficient of Variation (GCV) were calculated as per the formula proposed by Burton (1954). Accordingly, the PCV and GCV of the genotypes were classified into three range of variations such as low (< 10 %), medium (10-20 %) and high (> 20 %) as suggested by Sivasubramanian and Menon (1973). Heritability was estimated as per the formula suggested by Lush (1940) and expressed in per cent. The range of heritability was categorized as low (0-30 %), medium (31-60 %) and high (> 60 %) as proposed by Johnson et al. (1955). Genetic advance was calculated as per formula proposed by Johnson et al. (1955) and characters were classified in to high (more than 20 %), medium (10 - 20 %) and low (less than 10 %).\r\nRESULT AND DISCUSSION\r\nIn the present investigation analysis of variance was carried out for nine traits. The analysis of variance showed significant difference among the genotypes for all traits observed and reported that the genotype mean square for the traits observed were found to be significant (Table 2). The estimates of phenotypic variance, genotypic variance, phenotypic coefficient of variation (PCV) and genotypic coefficient of variation (GCV) were depicted within the table 3. Genetic variance among the curry leaf population were from 0.27 for internodal length to 879.16 for plant height while, the phenotypic variance was ranged from 0.35 to 955.64 respectively for the internode length and plant height. Among the plant growth characters studied, plant height (879.16 and 955.64), leaf area (308.81 and 329.90) and number of mature shoots per plant (28.86 and 31.45) recorded the very best genotypic and phenotypic variances respectively. This result expressed that the existing curry leaf population reflected with large variability. Hence such genotypes might be utilized for the further crop improvement programmes. Similar results were reported earlier by Lal et al. (2001) Shoba et al. (2020); Chittaragi et al. (2022) in curry leaf.\r\nThe result informed that those attributes were more viable for selection than the other characters and inferred that the presence of considerable genetic variability for the studied genotypes, which empowers the breeder to improve curry leaf production only through simple selection. Hence the selection among the genotypes may be based on these traits will be efficient. Generally genotypic coefficient of variation is a measure of genetic variability which provides means to compare with other characters facilitating the successful identification of desirable types under sodic soil. The range of GCV of the traits recorded was ranged from 13.83 % in leaflet per compound leaf, to 46.01 % for leaf area. Likewise, the PCV was ranged from 20.02 % for leaflet per compound leaf to 47.55% for leaf area (Table 3). According to the statement of Deshmukh et al. (1986), the PCV and GCV values greater than 20% are regarded as high and values between 10% and 20% to be medium, whereas values less than 10% are considered to be low. Accordingly, high PCV and GCV were registered for Leaf area (47.55 and 46.01), Number of mature shoot per plant (45.89 and 43.97), Plant girth (32.36 and 30.76) and Plant height (29.53 and 28.33) while traits with moderate GCV were recorded for the Internode length (19.88), Number of compound leaves (17.58) and Leaf let per compound leaf (13.83). The existence of substantial variability for the characters were indicated through high values of PCV and GCV and this will facilitate effective selection in the curry leaf population. In this study, the PCV was relatively greater than GCV for all traits observed, however, GCV was near to PCV for the characters like plant height and leaf area inferred that high contribution of genotypic effect for phenotypic expression of such characters. Similar result was reported by Selvakumari (2013), Sheetal and Maurya (2015); Shoba et al. (2020). The traits with wider gaps between estimate of PCV and GCV showed disparate contribution of environmental factors in addition to genotypic effect for expression of the traits (Karunakar et al., 2018).\r\nGenerally, the genotypic coefficient of variance provides information on the genetic variability present in quantitative characters of the base population, but it is alone not possible to determine the amount of the variation that was heritable. The clear picture of the amount of genetic advance to be expected from selection was governed by the genetic coefficient of variance together with heritability estimates (Burton and Devane, 1953). Heritability estimates in the present study was ranged from 47.71 % in leaflet per compounds leaf to 93.61% for leaf area (Table 3). The heritability values are useful in the prediction of expected progress to be achieved through any selection progress as well as heritability in association with genetic advance would highlight a reliable index of selection value (Panse, 1957). The heritability values greater than 80% were very high, values from 60–79% were moderately high, values from 40– 59% were medium and values less than 40% were low (Singh, 2001). Accordingly, in the present study, the estimate of heritability of Plant height, Plant girth, Petiole length, Number of mature shoot per plant, Leaf area and Fresh leaf yield per plant were recorded with high heritability. This result revealed the relatively small contribution of the environmental factors to the phenotype and selection for such characters could be fairly easy due to the high additive effect. The results were in line with work of Raja and Bagle (2008); Selvakumari (2013); Sheetal and Maurya (2015); Shoba et al. (2020).\r\nAccordingto Jonhson et al. (1955) that the worth of genetic advance as percent of the mean is categorized as low (< 10%), moderate (10–20%) and high (> 20%). The GAM of leaflets per compound leaf was classified as moderate, whereas other characters were found to be high (Table 3). The high heritability estimates together with the high genetic advance as per mean is typically more helpful in predicting gain under selection than heritability alone. In the present investigation, among the curry leaf genotypes studied, the very high heritability alongwith high genetic advance as percent of the mean are exhibited by plant height, plant girth, Plant girth, Petiole length, Number of mature shoot per plant, Leaf area, and for fresh leaf yield per plant. The moderate high heritability along with high genetic advance as percent of the mean was expressed by the Internode length and Number of compound leaves which reflecting the presence of additive gene action for the expression of those traits which is fixable for next generations, and selection in next population based on this character would be ideal. Similar observation was recorded by Raja and Bagle (2008); Selvakumari (2013); Sheetal and Maurya (2015) in moringa, Shoba et al. (2020) and Chittaragi et al. (2022) in curry leaf. The traits having moderate values of heritability as well as moderate genetic advance as percent of the mean viz. leaf let per compound leaf, suggest that selection for improvement of those characters may also be rewarding. It also indicates a greater role of non-additive gene action in their inheritance. Similar results were also reported by Shoba et al. (2020); Indhumathi et al. (2020).\r\nPhenotypic and genotypic correlations of nine characters in all possible combinations were calculated to know the relationship among them (Table 4). In general, genotypic correlation coefficients were higher than corresponding phenotypic correlation coefficients for most of the traits. Fresh leaf yield per plant had significant and positive association with plant height (0.561 and 0.588), plant girth (0.821 and 0.808), internode length (0.651 and 0.596), petiole length (0.732 and 0.753), number of mature shoot per plant (0.647 and 0.665), number of compound leaves (0.455 and 0.544) and leaf area (0.455 and 0.544) may be considered as selection indices for yield improvement Similar results were also reported by Subha et al (2010); Indhumathi et al. (2020); Chittaragi et al.(2022) in curry leaf.\r\n','D. Vidhya, K. Indumathi, K. Gurusamy, P.Paramaguru and S. Geethanjali (2022). Assessment of Genetic Variability for Growth and Yield Traits of Curry Leaf (Murraya koenigii L. Sperg) under Sodic Soil. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 14(2): 912-916.'),(4976,'125','Studies on Adult Emergence Pattern of Wireworm (Agriotes species) in Northern Karnataka','T. Anandmurthy*, P.S. Tippannavar and C.P. Mallapur','156 Studies on Adult Emergence Pattern of Wireworm _Agriotes species_ in Northern Karnataka T. Anandmurthy.pdf','',1,'Wireworm, Agriotes species (Coleoptera: Elateridae) is one of the important insect pests infesting sugarcane and others crops in Karnataka. Grubs (wireworm) feeds on germinating seeds and young seedlings by feeding the roots and tunneling through lower stem parts of the crops. Hence, plants might suffer reduced water, nutrient supply resulting in delayed plant development or cause mortality of the plant. Both qualitative and quantitative parameters of the infested crop get affected resulting in lower yields, which in form influence the marketability of the produce. The information with regard adult emergence pattern of wireworm (Agriotes species) is lacking. In light of the above, the present investigation was undertaken. The adult emergence pattern was carried out for two successive years (2019 and 2020) in endemic areas of northern Karnataka viz., Dharwad, Belagavi and Bagalkot districts. For this study, sugarcane fields were selected in farmer field and wherever possible 125 watt fluorescent bulbs were installed and monitoring was carried out. The data of two years revealed that the adult emergence period was noticed between 9th MSW (Metrological standard week) to 28th MSW. Emergence restricted to 18.00 to 22.00 h in a day and within this period, peak emergence of adult beetles was noticed from 1900 to 2000 h. ','Agriotes species, adult emergence, wireworm, Metrological Standard Week (MSW)','Adult emergence of Agriotes species was commenced from 9thMeteorological Standard Week (MSW) (March) and continued up to 16th MSW (May). Irrespective of locations, peak emergence was noticed between 21st to 24th MSW (June). ','INTRODUCTION\r\nWireworm, are the grub of click beetles (Coleoptera: Elateridae), are significant economic soil-dwelling pests in temperate and subtropical areas of the world (Traugott et al. 2015). Wireworms overwinter mainly in the soil as partially grown larvae and as adult beetles. The adults deposit their eggs in the soil during the summer. First-instar larvae emerge in July and begin feeding on underground parts of plants for two to three years before reaching maturity (Cockerham and Deen 1936; Seal et al., 1992). Mature larvae pupate in the soil during late summer and the new adult beetles remain in the soil until the next summer. There is only one generation in every three to four years. However, considerable overlapping of generations occurs, thus adults and larvae of various sizes and ages are noticed throughout the year. Wireworms are generalists and feed on a wide variety of field crops and vegetable crops e.g., sugarcane, maize, groundnut, wheat, sorghum, potato, onion, ginger, chilli, sugar beet, carrot and soft roots (Keiser et al., 2012). The main damage occurs by feeding on germinating seeds and roots of young seedlings and tunneling through lower stem parts (Ritter and Richter, 2013). Hence, plants suffer reduced water, nutrient supply resulting in delayed plant development or cause death. Root crops obtain a reduced quality and quantity of marketable yield. Wireworms have become increasingly serious pest in Karnataka during the last few years. Their infestation has been reported throughout Karnataka and the magnitude of the problem has been widespread over the past years. \r\nMATERIAL AND METHODS\r\nMonitoring of adult beetles was carried out for two successive years (2019 and 2020) in endemic areas of northern Karnataka viz., Dharwad, Belagavi and Bagalkot districts from 5th Meteorological Standard Week (MSW) (February) to 32nd MSW (August). For this study, sugarcane fields were selected in farmer field and wherever possible 125 watt fluorescent bulbs were installed and monitoring was carried out every day from 18.00 to 22.00 h in the location. Adults of different species were collected and brought to the laboratory and preserved in 70 per cent ethyl alcohol. Collection was made every day, later so collected adults were counted and averaged out for respective MSW in all the study location. \r\nRESULT\r\nDharwad. The emergence of wireworm adults in the irrigated ecosystem, during 2019, adult emergence of Agriotes species commenced from 11th MSW (March) with weekly mean catches of 0.71, which gradual increased from 15th MSW (April) and reached peak during 24th MSW (June) with adult catches of 5.00 and gradual decline was noticed from 26th MSW (July) onwards. Whereas, during 2020, adult emergence of Agriotes species starts from 11th MSW (March) with 0.43 catches and the peak was noticed from 21st MSW (June) with 5.43 catches. Decline was noticed from 24th MSW (June) onwards. Pooled data of study revealed that, adult emergence of Agriotes species noticed from 11th MSW (March) with 0.57 mean adults per trap and gradual increased from 13th MSW (April) and the peak was noticed from 23rd MSW (June) (4.57) while gradual decline was noticed from 26th (July) onwards.\r\nBelagavi. During 2019, adult emergence of Agriotes species commenced from 9th MSW (March) with weekly mean catches of 1.14 but maximum beetles (6.29) were caught upto 21st MSW (June) which gradually declined from 25th MSW (July) onwards. Similarly the emergence of Agriotes species during 2020, commenced from 9th MSW (March) with 1.29 catches, but maximum beetles (4.86) were caught during 22nd MSW (June).Pooled data analysis indicated that, the adults emergence of Agriotes species commenced from 9th MSW (March) with weekly mean catches of 1.21 but maximum adults (5.50) were caught during 22nd MSW (June) and started to show decline in population thereafter. \r\nBagalkot. During 2019, adult emergence of Agriotes species commenced from 9th MSW (March) (0.71) and reached peak during 21th MSW (June) with 4.57 catches, while gradual decline was noticed from 25th MSW (July) onwards. However during 2020, adult emergence of Agriotes species started from 11th MSW (March) with 1.00 mean adults per trap and reached peak during 21st MSW (June) (4.57) while gradual decline was noticed thereafter. Pooled data analysis indicated that, adult emergence of Agriotes species started from 9th MSW (March) (0.36) and reached peak was noticed from 21st MSW (June) (4.57) while gradual decline was noticed thereafter.\r\nDISCUSSION\r\nIn the present investigation conducted during 2019 and 2020, the results on adult emergence of Agriotes species differed from location to location i.e., first noticed from 9th MSW (March) in Dharwad to 11th MSW (March) in Bagalkot and the peak was noticed from month June while gradual decline was noticed from 26th MSW (July) onwards. Adult emergence of Agriotes species is usually observed after receipt of first summer shower during the month of March (Fig. 1). \r\nLiterature supporting the present findings are scanty however, findings pertaining to the other soil dwelling insect pest in other crops are taken into consideration to support the findings. Tippannavar (2013) reported that, adult emergence of white grub (Holotrichia serrata) commenced during the month of May and June, after the onset of pre-monsoon showers under rainfed ecosystem. Similarly, Prathibha et al. (2013) observed the emergence of adult white grub (Leucopholis coneophora) commenced after the receipt of summer shower during third week of April in 2011, 2012 and 2013 in Kerala with peak emergence during the month of June (>200 mm rainfall). Theurkar et al. (2013) have recorded second fortnight of June as the peak period of emergence of both Holotrichia serrata and Holotrichia fissa. Further, Kalleshwaraswamy et al. (2015) also observed the adult emergence of white grub (Leucopholis lepidophora) after first summer shower with peak adult emergence from June to November months in Shivamoga (Karnataka). Shrilakshmi (2015) reported that, adult emergence of white grub (Holotrichia fissa) commenced after the receipt of summer showers and continued till last week of July. So these findings clearly indicated that, emergence of the adults depend up on soil moisture, soil temperature and other soil environment conditions. Similar factors might be attributed for the adult emergence of wireworms in the present study. \r\n','T. Anandmurthy, P.S. Tippannavar and C.P. Mallapur (2022). Studies on Adult Emergence Pattern of Wireworm (Agriotes species) in Northern Karnataka. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 14(2): 917-920.'),(4977,'125','Nutrient content, Uptake and Nutrient use Efficiency of Indian Mustard as Influenced by Salicylic Acid and Nutrient Sources','Surgyan Rundla*, Pawan Kumar and Parveen Kumar','157 Nutrient content, Uptake and Nutrient use Efficiency of Indian Mustard as Influenced by Salicylic Acid and Nutrient Sources Surgyan rundla.pdf','',1,'A field experiment was conducted to assess the effect of salicylic acid and nutrient sources on nutrient content, uptake and nutrient use efficiency in Indian mustard. Results showed that salicylic acid applied as 200 ppm foliar spray at flower initiation and full bloom stage (F3) recorded the maximum values of nutrient content, uptake and nutrient use efficiency by mustard crop. However, the treatment of 200 ppm salicylic acid at flower initiation remained equally effective with regard to above parameters. Further, Data showed that the treatment 1/3 each through FYM, vermicompost and biogas slurry (N5) proved significantly superior over all other treatments with respect to nutrient content, uptake and nutrient use efficiency. ','Growth, Yield, Indian mustard, Salicylic acid, Nutrient sources','The application of salicylic acid and different nutrient sources significantly improved nutrient content, uptake and nutrient use efficiency. On the basis of two years study, it can be concluded that the application of 200 ppm salicylic acid at flower initiation and full bloom stage with 1/3 RDN Each through FYM, Vermicompost and Biogas slurry was the most suitable practice for the Indian mustard in the western Haryana.','INTRODUCTION\r\nThe name ‘mustard’ is derived from the Latin word ‘mustum’ means that of old wine mixed with the crushed seed makes it one of the most important spice in the world. In India, oilseed crops are the important component of the agricultural economy, next to food grains, in terms of area, production and value. The crop can be raised well under both irrigated and rainfed conditions. We are still importing more than 60% of vegetable oils. Furthermore, per capita consumption of edible oil is likely to reach 23.10 kg by 2030 from the present level of 13.40 kg (Singh et al., 2014). \r\nExploitation of genetic yield potentiality of new plant types of mustard although depends on the extent of fertilizer application, the balance, and compatible composition of different nutrient sources is a must to obtain greater nutrient use efficiency. Balance fertilization at right time with proper method and source of nutrients enhance nutrient use efficiency, productivity and uptake of nutrients by grain and by stover in mustard. Organic manures viz. FYM, Vermicompost and biogas slurry also play a vital role in enhancing soil fertility, crop productivity and better crop production in agriculture as they are eco-friendly and can be replaced by using 25 percent chemical fertilizers that are not toxic for health and enable farmer to get maximum crop yields. Application of organic manure like FYM, Vermicompost and biogas slurry in addition to chemical fertilizers results in increased mineral content in soil and water holding capacity of field and uptake of nutrients is also increased to a great extent, besides this several other changes such as root development, vegetative growth and nitrogen fixation increases crop yield as reported by Tomar et al. (2017 & 2019).\r\nThe application of salicylic acid can play alleviating high temperature effect and play an important role in plant response to stress by the activity of antioxidant enzymes. Salicylic acid (C7H6O3) has recently been recognized as a growth regulator of phenolic nature, which participates in the regulation of physiological processes in plant, such as stomatal closure, ion uptake, inhibition of ethylene biosynthesis, transpiration and stress tolerance (Shakirove et al., 2003). \r\nMATERIALS AND METHODS\r\nA field experiment was conducted during winter (rabi) season of 2018 and 2019 at Research Farm, Department of Agronomy, CCS Haryana Agricultural University, Hisar. This place geographically is situated at 29°10\'N latitude and 75°46\'E longitude at mean elevation of 215.2 meter above mean sea level. The textural class of the experimental soil was a loamy sand with moderately alkaline (pH 8.0) poor in organic carbon (0.35%) and EC 0.24 dSm-1. The total available N, P2O5 and K2O were 128, 15.8 and 270 kg/ha, respectively. The treatments were tested in split plot design and replicated four. The main plot treatment consisted different salicylic acid level (Water spray, 200 ppm Salicylic acid at flower initiation stage, 200 ppm Salicylic acid at full bloom stage and 200 ppm Salicylic acid at flower initiation and full bloom stage) and in sub-plots treatments in which nutrient sources (RDF-80 kg N and 40 kg P2O5 ha−1, 50% RDN through chemical fertilizers + 50% RDN through FYM, 50% RDN through chemical fertilizers + 50% RDN through vermicompost, 50% RDN through chemical fertilizers + 50% RDN through biogas slurry and 1/3 RDN each through FYM, vermicompost and biogas slurry). However, the recommended dose of fertilizer was applied based on treatment needs through urea and SSP. Full dose of nitrogen and phosphorus were applied as basal dose. \r\nMustard crop were raised with the seed rate of 4.0 kg/ha at a row distance of 30 cm. Sowing of seeds was done by opening with furrow with help of hand plough and cover the soil to ensure moisture loss through evaporation. Plant geometry was maintained by spacing 30 × 10 cm of doing thinning operation at 20 DAS. The foliar spray of SA was applied at flowering and full bloom stage. In view of the above factors, the present investigation was undertaken at Research farm, CCSHAU, Hisar to study the nutrient uptake and nutrient use efficiency in Indian mustard as affected by salicylic acid and different nutrient sources in Western Haryana.\r\nProcedure and techniques\r\nUptake of NPK (kg ha-1) by seed and Stover. Uptake in stover of each nutrient NPK (kg ha-1) was worked out by multiplying the stover yield (kg ha-1) with their respective NPK content and uptake in grain of each nutrient NPK (kg ha-1) was worked out by multiplying the grain yield (kg ha-1) with their respective NPK content.\r\nRESULTS AND DISCUSSION\r\nNutritional Content. A perusal of data in Table 1 revealed that nitrogen content in seed and stover increased significantly with the application of salicylic acid as 200 ppm at flower initiation and full bloom stage compared to rest of the treatments during both the experimental years and pooled analysis. The treatment F3 (200 ppm at flower initiation and full bloom stage) recorded maximum N, P and K in grain 3.97%, 0.57% and 0.61%, respectively as well as in stover 0.64%, 0.28%, 1.45% followed by F2, all these treatments were significantly at par but superior over control plot. However, the minimum N, P and K content in grain and stover was recorded in water spray.\r\nSignificantly improved NPK in seed was noted in N5 treatment (1/3 RDN Each through FYM, Vermicompost and Biogas slurry) 3.871, 0.510 and 0.548 respectively, However, the maximum NPK content was noted in stover 0.569%, 0.258%, 1.300% under the N5 treatment followed by N4, and all these treatments were statistically at par but superior over control plot. However, the minimum N, P and K content in grain and stover was recorded in N1.\r\nNutrient uptake and yield. A perusal of data in Table 2 revealed that the uptake of nutrient is the function of dry matter formulation and percentage of nutrient content of the seed. Salicylic acid and nutrient sources had significant effect on nutrient uptake by mustard. The highest total nitrogen, phosphorus and potassium uptake 156.44, 39.65 and 142.57 kg ha-1, respectively was observed with 200 ppm at flower initiation and full bloom stage. These findings are in close conformity of the findings of Hussain et al. (2010); Gunes et al. (2007); Grown (2012). The minimum uptake of N, P and K was found in control plot.\r\nThe highest total nitrogen, phosphorus and potassium uptake 134.08, 32.07 and 114.33 kg ha-1, respectively was found with 1/3 RDN Each through FYM, Vermicompost and Biogas slurry. These results are in line with the finding of Chaurasia et al. (2009); Singh et al. (2011). The minimum uptake of N, P and K was observed in control plot. The highest nutrient uptake could due to highest total biomass yield, relatively higher nutrient concentration, higher nutrient mobility and its absorption.\r\nThe highest seed yield was recorded under treatment 200 ppm salicylic acid at flower initiation and full bloom stage with the respective value of (2516 kg ha-1) followed by 200 ppm Salicylic acid at flower initiation. Hence, the significantly lowest seed yield was noted with the treatment water spray (1807 kg ha-1). These results are in line with the finding of Lakhana et al., (2005); Sahu et al., (2005).\r\nThe highest seed yield was recorded under treatment 1/3 RDN Each through FYM, Vermicompost and Biogas slurry (1807 kg ha-1) followed by 50% RDN through chemical fertilizers + 50% RDN through Vermicompost. The significantly lowest seed yield was noted with the treatment 80 kg N and 40 kg P2O5 ha−1 (2104 kg ha-1). These results agree with the findings of Singh and Rai (2004); Regar et al. (2009); Singh and Pal (2011); Tripathi et al. (2011).\r\nNutrient use efficiency. The salicylic acid and nutrient sources had significant effect on nutrient use efficiency by mustard (Table 3). Significantly higher nitrogen, phosphorus and total use efficiency was recorded under treatment 200 ppm salicylic acid at flower initiation and full bloom stage with the respective values of (31.45, 62.90 and 20.97 kg ha-1) followed by 200 ppm Salicylic acid at flower initiation. The minimum of N, P and total use efficiency was observed in control plot.\r\nThe highest nitrogen, phosphorus and total use efficiency was observed under treatment 1/3 RDN Each through FYM, Vermicompost and Biogas slurry (28.76, 57.51 and 19.17 kg ha-1) followed by 50% RDN through chemical fertilizers + 50% RDN through Vermicompost. The significantly lowest nitrogen, phosphorus and total use efficiency was noted with the treatment 80 kg N and 40 kg P2O5 ha−1.\r\n','Surgyan Rundla, Pawan Kumar and Parveen Kumar (2022). Nutrient content, Uptake and Nutrient use Efficiency of Indian Mustard as Influenced by Salicylic Acid and Nutrient Sources. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 14(2): 921-925.'),(4978,'125','Analysis of Correlation and Path Coefficient for Grain yield and its Attributing Traits in Chickpea (Cicer arietinum L.) under Timely Sown conditions','Neha*, Shiva Nath, Tarkeshwar and Govind Mishra','158 Analysis of Correlation and Path Coefficient for Grain yield and its Attributing Traits in Chickpea _Cicer arietinum L._ under Timely Sown conditions Neha.pdf','',1,'Chickpea is a multifunctional annual legume crop, considered to be the country\'s most diverse crop. However, there is a scarcity of data in the country on genetic variation, yield association and yield-attributing characteristics of Chickpea. Therefore, an investigation was conducted to estimate the correlation coefficient and path coefficient between seventy-nine lines of chickpea (60 F1s, 15 lines and 4 testers) (Cicer arietinum L.) at Student’s Instructional Farm, ANDUAT, Kumarganj, Ayodhya during Rabi season 2020-21.The data were observed for eleven metric traits viz., Days to 50% flowering (DFF), Days to maturity (DM), Plant height (PH) (cm), Primary branches/plant (PBPP), Secondary branches/plant (SBPP), Pods/plant (PPP), Seeds/pod (SPP), 100 seed weight (g), Biological yield/plant (BYPP) (g), Harvest index (HI) (%) and Seed yield/plant (SYPP) (g). At genotypic level, the significant positive correlation coefficient was recorded for the characters plant height (cm) with 100 seed weight (g). Investigation of correlation coefficients revealed that the amount of genetic correlation coefficient was very close to phenotypic correlation coefficient in most cases, suggesting the existence of inherent associations among the traits studied. The trait pods/plant exhibited highly significant and positive correlation with grain yield/plant, seeds/pod showed highly positive significant correlation with biological yield/plant, biological yield/plant showed strong correlation with grain yield/plant and harvest index. The results indicated that biological yield/plant exerted direct and positive effect on grain yield/plant and it also exerted indirect effect on grain yield/plant via100-seed weight followed by pods/plant. The trait harvest index possessed significant indirect effect on grain yield/plant via pods per plant.','Chickpea, Cicer arietinum, grain yield, correlation coefficient, path coefficient','In briefly, the genotypes of chickpea studied have the enough ability for integrating definite salient and principal traits. Estimation of correlation and path coefficient disclosed that the grain yield/plant, biological yield/plant and 100-seed weight were the most prominent traits for yield improvement in chickpea. While selecting for yield improvement in chickpea the highest importance should be given to these characters.','INTRODUCTION\r\nChickpea (Cicer arietinum L.), is a self-pollinated pulse crop, botanically belonging to family Fabaceae, is among the most important rabi pulse crops in India and contributes about 20% to the total pulse production at global level. Chickpea is a diploid (2n = 2x = 16) crop having genome size of 732 Mb. It is a cool season pulse crop which grown under eight geographically diverse agro-climatic conditions in more than 44 countries representing all the continents. India, the largest chickpea producer with about 11.35 mt production from 10.17 mha area and 1116 kg/ha productivity, holds about 67% in global chickpea production (Directorate of Economics & Statistics, DAC&FW). The total production of chickpea in the year 2019-20 was 11.35 mt(Directorate of Economics and Statistics, 2020).Moreover, its seed coats and pod covers are used as fodder for animals. Proteins are an important constituent of chickpea seed and responsible for nutritional and socio-economic importance. The chickpea seed is a rich source of proteins as well as carbohydrates which together constitute about 80% of the total dry weight. The genetic resources of the genus Cicer L. are not only limited in comparison to other key food legumes and cereal crops, but they also comprise numerous endemic species classified as endangered by the International Union for Conservation of Nature. (Toker et al., 2021). As it is an excellent source of protein, fits well in cropping systems and tolerates drought, this crop occupies a vital place in our daily diet. Concerning its importance is quite need to increase its yield potential; regarding these several genetic improvement methods have been employed. As seed yield is the most important and complex character controlled by polygenes, it is also governed by a lot of physiological changes within the plant and many environmental factors also interfere when cultivated, that is why it is not an effective character for selection. Investigation of genetic variability and a \r\ncorrelation study between yield and its components of genotypes could assist in meeting the demand for high grain production and nutrition (Saleh et al., 2020). The objectives of this study were to evaluate the association among grain yield and yield attributing traits and to determine the direct and indirect effects of these traits on grain yield in chickpea under timely sown conditions.\r\nMATERIALS AND METHODS\r\nThe experiment was conducted by undertaking nineteen chickpea genotypes (fifteen lines and four testers) with two standard checks, which were initially screened for desired characters. The parents namely ICCV 10, JG 11, JG 14, JG 16, JG 315, NDG 5-21, NDG 11-12, Phule G 5, BG 362, HC 3, Rajash, Vaibhav, RSG 888, PDG 84-16, JAKI 9218 were used as lines (females) of chickpea which were crossed with four testers (male) namely Pant G 186, BG 372, GCP 105 and Udai were collected from genetic stock available in Chickpea Section, Department of Genetics and Plant Breeding, ANDUAT Kumarganj, Ayodhya. These genotypes were crossed in Line × Tester design to produce 60 F1sduring Rabi season 2019-20 and were evaluated in the following year during Rabi season 2020-21. The final experimental material comprising of seventy-nine (60 F1s, 4 testers and 15 lines) was grown in RBD with 3 replications, each replication consisting two rows of 4m length and spacing of 30 cm (R × R) & 10cm (P × P) in timely sown conditions at Student’s Instructional Farm, ANDUAT, Kumarganj, Ayodhya. Recommended packages and practices were given to raise a healthy and productive crop. The data were observed for eleven metric traits viz., Days to 50% flowering (DFF), Days to maturity (DM), Plant height (PH) (cm), Primary branches/plant (PBPP), Secondary branches/plant (SBPP), Pods/plant (PPP), Seeds/pod (SPP), 100 seed weight (g), Biological yield/plant (BYPP) (g), Harvest index (HI) (%) and Seed yield/plant (SYPP) (g). These observations were recorded at maturity of crop from five randomly selected plants for most of the traits except Days to 50% flowering and days to maturity which was recorded on whole plot basis.\r\nThe genotypic and phenotypic correlation coefficient (r) between various traits were estimated according to the formulae given by Searle, (1961) and Path coefficient analysis was carried out according to Dewey and Lu (1959). Seed yield or grain yield/plant (g) was supposed to be dependent variable (effect) which is influenced directly and indirectly byall other characters i.e., independent variables (causes).\r\nRESULTS AND DISCUSSION\r\nCorrelation coefficient. Relationship between seed yield and its attributing characters were estimated through analysis of coefficient of correlation among them. Genotypic and Phenotypic correlation coefficients between eleven quantitative characters of 79 chickpea lines are shown in Table 1 and 2 respectively. Correlation analysis revealed that the amount of genetic correlation coefficient was very close to phenotypic correlation coefficient in most cases, suggesting the existence of inherent associations among the traits studied. The phenotypic coefficient of correlation in some traits were higher than their genotypic coefficient of correlation, which designate the masking effect of environment that can change the expression of traits at phenotypic level.\r\nAt genotypic level (Table 1), the characters days to 50% flowering, days to maturity, primary branches/plant and secondary branches/plant didn’t show any significant correlation with any of the characters studied. The trait plant height (cm) exhibited significant positive correlation with 100-seed weight (g) (0.711) followed by biological yield/plant (g) (0.493), grain yield/plant (g) (0.488), harvest index (%) (0.311) and pods/plant (0.300). Supported by the observations earlier reported by the workers i.e., 100-SW (0.589) and BYPP (0.536).\r\nPods/plant exerted significant and positive correlation with grain yield/plant (0.758) followed by harvest index (0.719), biological yield/plant (0.711) and 100-seed weight (0.502) respectively. Same observations were also recorded by Babar and Patel (2005), i.e., BYPP (0.751) and Kumar et al., (2019), i.e., GYPP (0.0.270).\r\nSeeds/pod showed highly positive significant correlation with biological yield/plant (0.534) followed by grain yield/plant (0.507). These are similar with the results observed by Babbar et al. (2012), i.e., SYPP (0.65).\r\nThe trait 100-seed weight possessed significant and positive correlation with the characters biological yield/plant, grain yield/plant and harvest index (i.e., 0.759, 0.766 and 0.505 respectively). Such types of results were also reported by the earlier workers Agrawal et al., (2018), i.e., BYPP = 0.355 and HI = 0.311.\r\nBiological yield/plant exerted strong correlation with grain yield per plant (0.966) and harvest index (0.482). Malik et al. (2010), i.e., GYPP (0.77).\r\nHarvest index possessed significant positive correlation with grain yield/plant (0.603) (Table 1). These results are also in agreement with earlier reports of Malik et al., (2010), i.e., HI (0.29).\r\nPath coefficient. Coefficient of correlation only measures the degree and correlation between two traits. Although, this may not give the fair idea under complex conditions. Under such conditions, path coefficient provides a better way of estimating the direct as well as indirect effects via other variables on the end product i.e., seed yield, by partitioning correlation coefficients. The direct and indirect effects on seed yield were estimated for all characters under study, which provided a better index for selection rather than correlation coefficient.\r\nAt genotypic level (Table 3) the results revealed that the character biological yield/plant (1.073) possessed direct positive effect on grain yield/ plant followed by harvest index (HI) (0.226) and days to 50% flowering (DFF) (0.034) and it also exerted indirect effect on grain yield/plant via 100-seed weight (0.815) followed by pods/plant (0.764), seeds/pod (0.573), plant height (0.529) and harvest index (0.517). These results are supported by earlier results reported by the workers Kumar et al. (2019), i.e., BYPP (1.026), i.e., BYPP(0.840) and HI (0.288); and Agrawal et al. (2018), i.e., BYPP (0.960) and HI (0.259).\r\nThe trait harvest index exhibited significant indirect effect on grain yield/plant (0.603) via pods/plant (0.162), 100-seed weight (0.114), biological yield/plant (0.109) respectively. These results are also in agreement with the earlier results reported by Talebi et al., (2007), i.e., HI(0.901) and Pods/plant (0.210). Rest of the characters did not exert substantial amount of indirect on grain yield.\r\n','Neha, Shiva Nath, Tarkeshwar and Govind Mishra (2022). Analysis of Correlation and Path Coefficient for Grain Yield and its Attributing Traits in Chickpea (Cicer arietinum L.) under Timely Sown conditions. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 14(2): 926-929.'),(4979,'125','Preferences of Willingness to Consumption of Green Leafy Vegetables among Rural and Urban School Children in Madurai District of Tamil Nadu, India','P. Sheela*, M. Ramasubramanian, M. Ganapathy Ramu, A. Anbarassan and N. Periasami ','159 Preferences of Willingness to Consumption of Green Leafy Vegetables among Rural and Urban School Children in Madurai District of Tamil Nadu, India Sheela Punniyamoorthy.pdf','',1,'Children all around the world are fonder about the consumption of junk food in the current scenario. The advertisements on the colour of food, the taste and the flavor in the junk food always appetize the children mainly in among the urban community and create an urge to consume them frequently. Though tastes of children might vary there is always an importance of green leafy vegetables given in our Indian diet. Green leafy vegetables are a rich source of calcium, beta carotene and vitamin C. Leafy vegetables are particularly rich in mineral nutrients and iron. The deficiency of iron leads to anemia, a common health problem in children. The recommended dietary allowance of green leafy vegetables for pre-school children (4-6 yrs) and for boys and girls beyond 10 years of age is 50g/day. (RDA, 2010). The effect of green leafy vegetables on nutrition and the consumption pattern of the school children of green leafy vegetables majorly depend on the environment and family preferences of food pattern. Food preferences are the evaluative attitudes that people express toward foods. Food preferences include the qualitative evaluation of foods, and also how much people like and dislike them. A study on the preferences of willingness of consumption of green leafy vegetables among rural and urban school children was carried out in Madurai district of Tamil Nadu. Thirty school children belonging to age group of 9- 11 years were selected purposively in both rural and urban population each. The quantitative data was collected using verbal response from the children and the qualitative data was collected using the observation technique through photo elicitation responses. The height (cm) and weight (kg) was recorded and revealed that there was about 16% among urban and 13% among rural children were in the weight range between 36 to 42 Kg, which is a serious concern about obesity development in childhood. The preference of children on the ten major attributes was recorded and revealed that significant association among appearance and taste of the greens among the rural and urban children. Thus, the study hereby reveals the importance of consumption of greens and the aspect in which the greens are being influenced for consumption among the school children. ','Children, Green leaves, consumption, preference, obesity and factors influencing consumption','In conclusion this study provides strong evidence that knowledge about green leafy vegetables and their food preference that influencing the consumption of greens. We are the parents must choose right food for in daily diet through their preferences. Children are the backbone of the country to correct the consumption pattern by the way of family followed by society and to the nation. The results of the study revealed that (16.66 per cent in rural and 13.33 per cent in urban) were in the weight range of 36 Kg to 42 Kg which is a cause of obesity among the school children. The factors influencing the children on consumption of greens showed that there is a significant association between the appearance of the dish made from greens, the peers influence and the absence of other alternative foods for greens has made the children consume green leafy vegetables in both urban and rural areas. The qualitative data collected from children revealed that all the children interviewed were at least aware of either the health benefits or name of the greens. In the present analysis with logistic regression it was observed that two variables namely ‘appearance of dish made of greens’ and ‘taste of the greens’ were found to be significant at one percent level of probability. Thus, the study on food preferences of school children in both urban and rural population is mainly influences by the taste and the appearance of the greens. As an initiative to improve the consumption pattern of greens among school children the study results depict that change in appearance and taste of greens with varietal attributes will attract the children to consume greens. Thus, it would substantiate to help in improving the quality of food consumed with nutrients and reduce the amount of junk foods consumed by the children. Resulting towards a obesity free nation from children would lead to a developed healthy nation.','INTRODUCTION\r\nFood is a basic necessity of all living organisms. It is essential for growth and development of children. Good food that explores the truth manner of food for well being. The consumer has become more sensitive to health issues and partly due to factors like rise in income, availability of variety of vegetables, etc. (Goksel et al., 2009). Green leaves are blessing for a secure and healthier life and have been in use for hundreds of years. They are considered as a necessary a part of the diet to fulfill the daily nutrient requirements (Muhammad Atif et al., 2015). Green leafy vegetables are a vital of any diet. They proved fiber, essential vitamins and minerals like iron, calcium and magnesium and rise any meal. They supply protection against diseases like high cholesterol, heart diseases and conditions like anemia (WHO, 2012). Indian cuisine is noted for it use of green leafy vegetable that are commonly called “saag”. Saag is a generic term used for a range of green like spinach, mustard leaves and amaranth (Sue Rodwell Williams, 2004). Food consumption preferences are developed early in life (Ventura and Worobey 2013). Understanding how children food consumption choices are developed has the potential to learn individual’s health over their entire lifetime (Andrew et al., 2017). Specifically, limiting the consumption of sweetened beverages, while increasing the consumption of healthy food choices like fruits and vegetables, can have protective effects on people’s health (Ludwig et al., 2001 and Malik et al., 2013). In spite of this children were more profound to consuming junk foods and that they adopt to prefer sugar based beverages everywhere in the globe. During this context, their knowledge about green leafy vegetables and consumption of those green leafy vegetables may be a very crucial role in their day to day life is that the key idea to assemble the factors referring to tragedy involving the consumption among them. The gap between the nutritional parameter of green leafy vegetables and therefore the consumption towards liking is the main drawback of its usage. \r\nThis paper address, factors that influencing the consumption of greens leafy vegetables among the school going children and therefore the perception of green leafy vegetables about their knowledge. This effort to cover a large spectrum of factors gathered from the children by both quantitative and qualitative method that believed to shape child food consumption and examine their influence in food consumption context.\r\nMETHODOLOGY\r\nQuantitative approach. The study is explored to come across the preferences of green leaves consumption among the school going children in order to rural and urban. The data collection was carried out among 30 rural and 30 urban children from the schools located in rural and urban localities. The children who were studying in 4th, 5th and 6th standards were included in the study whose age ranged between 9 and 11. Madurai district was purposively selected for the study as it is one of the backward rural district in southern Tamil Nadu with more number of people living below poverty line and ultimately with poor nutrition. Madurai district of Tamil Nadu comprise of seven taluks, thirteen blocks and six hundred and sixty four revenue villages. Since the respondents for this study are to be selected from rural and urban background, the secondary data collected from ICDS office (Integrated Child Development Scheme), Madurai, pertaining to nutritional indicators in different blocks were analyzed. Two rural blocks namely Usilampatti and Melur were selected for rural school children based on the criteria of more number of moderately and severely underweight children in these blocks. As far as rural is concerned, 30 children were selected as respondents. They were selected from two school namely Government High School (15 students), Rangasamypuram in Usilampati block and Government Girls Higher Secondary School (15 students), Ulaganeri in Melur Block. For the selection of urban school children to the study the researcher discussed with officials in Madurai collectorate and Madurai Corporation. Considering the socio economic status for the selection of urban school children, Goripalayam was selected. In this place, two school were purposively selected, namely Katie Wilcox Matriculation School (15 students) and Kakkai Padiniyaar Girls Government School (15 students). The children were questioned about their awareness and preferences towards greens consumption. The rationale for the selection of 8th to 12th age group was that verbal response, comprehension skills and cognitive skills would be better for this age group, which will be a prerequisite for data collection. \r\nQualitative approach. For a qualitative data collection ‘Photo-elicitation’ tool was used wherein a photo of greens were shown to rural and urban children and their instantaneous verbal response was recorded. A photograph of greens is shown to a group of students and their instaneous responses were recorded. This data collection method is useful for obtaining perceptions, opinion, attitudes regarding an issue in an interactive group setting (Collis and Hussey 2014). \r\nData analysis. There are two statistical tools used in this study viz., chi square and binary logistic regression analysis. The analysis was run with SPSS 16.00. Since children are going to be the future generation, their health is set to change the health of the nations. Hence, their willingness to consume greens has been taken as another important component of the present investigation. In these analysis children willingness to consume greens has been operationalised as the positive orientation of children to consume greens in their diet. The scoring procedure to study this component has been exclusively designed for this study. Ten ‘yes’ or ‘no’ closed ended questions to elicit information related to factors influencing willingness to consume greens from children were designed and administered among rural and urban school children. A score of ‘2’ was assigned for ‘yes’ response and ‘one’ was assigned for ‘no’ response. Further the data related to every child’s age and number of years of schooling was collected. The height and weight of each child was also collected; in cms and Kgs respectively. \r\nRESULTS AND DISCUSSION\r\nProfile of children. Children are going to be the future generation and their orientation towards healthy living can shape healthy India in coming years. It could be inferred from table 1, that the weight of the children ranged from 23Kg to 42 Kg and nearly half of them (50.00 per cent in rural and 46.67 per cent in urban) were in the weight range of 26 Kg to 30 Kg. A few children (16.66 per cent in rural and 13.33 per cent in urban) were in the weight range of 36 Kg to 42 Kg which is a cause of serious concern. Obesity has been a big problem with children who is likely to get many diseases when they enter into adulthood or old age. It is common in both rural and urban that children are increasingly consuming junk foods and this culture need to be changed.\r\nThe Table 1, clearly shows that there existed no significant difference between rural and urban children in their weight which is substantiated through non significant ‘t’ value calculated using independent sample ‘t’ test. The mean and Standard deviation also did not show much difference for rural and urban children respectively indicating there was no difference between them in terms of weight.\r\nIt is obvious from Table 2 that majority of rural children (66.67 per cent) were in the height range of 124 cm to 130 cm, whereas majority of urban children put together were in the height range of 131 cm to 140 cm (63.33 per cent) and 141 cm to 154 cm (26.67 per cent), respectively. \r\nIt is to be noted here that a sizable number of children in urban were above the normal range of height than rural children which resulted in significant ‘t’ value at one per cent level of probability which indicated that rural and urban children differ. This was reinforced by the difference in mean and standard deviation of height for rural and urban children as evidenced from table 2. The higher standard deviation of urban indicated more variability in the height of urban children. The reason which could be attributed here is that urban children are more prone for junk food eating than rural children. \r\nFactors Influencing consumption of greens by Children. The consumption of greens by children might have been influenced by several factors which encompass influence of fellow children, teacher, parents and the factors associated with type of preparation of dishes and taste of greens also and it is denoted in table 3. \r\nAppearance of dish made of greens. All the rural children (100.00 per cent) interviewed were influenced and liked the appearance of dish made of green and many replied that they did not attach more meaning to appearance whereas nearly half (56.70 per cent) of the urban children were found to be influenced or liked the appearance of dish made of greens. There was a clear difference in response from rural and urban children which was substantiated through significant chi-square value at one per cent level of probability. Appearance does matter for urban children who are attuned to the urban culture of adornment and embellishment. \r\nInfluence of classmates/friends eating greens. Cent percentage of rural children and whopping majority of urban children (83.30 per cent) reiterated that they were influenced by their classmates/ friends eating greens. The peer pressure did influence especially during childhood since the children often see their peer and compare themselves. Sometimes it results in good habit and vice versa. But this accumulation of social capital among children has been the hot topic for many researchers and in this study also the finding of peer pressure was reinforced. A small difference between urban and rural children was visible in the table and the chi-square was found to be significant at five per cent level of probability.\r\nTaste of the greens. Majority of rural (70.00 per cent) and urban (60 per cent) children were more concerned about the taste of food and they responded that if the greens are tasty they will consume otherwise they will not. Normally children will have a liking towards tasty foods and that too sweets and chocolates and they usually reluctant to take non tasty food items. The chi-square is non significant and thus there existed no difference between rural and urban children as for as taste of the food is concerned since there was uniformity in their response.\r\nGreens mixed with main food. There was unanimity among rural (100.00 per cent) and urban (90.00 per cent) children for the factor that they were inclined towards greens mixed with main food. If one could observe children’s eating behavior, he or she can understand, the children would be reluctant to take vegetables separately but they would eat vegetables unknowingly if it is mixed with food. Specifically greens added with rice and a little ghee is delicious and much preferred by children. One of the children told during the interview that he would prefer to eat moringa leaves if it is added with egg rice. \r\nPreparation of greens by mother. Rural (100.00 per cent) and urban (90 per cent) children had complete consensus for their eating greens due to the dish being prepared by their mother. Mothers in families working or non working would serve as an important influencing factor shaping the eating behavior of their wards. Further as for as Indian society is concerned kids are closer to their mothers rather than their fathers.\r\nMother’s scolding for not eating greens. Nearly two-third (66.70 per cent) of rural children and exactly fifty percentages of urban children responded that they ate greens in order to avoid getting scolded by their mothers. It is to be noted here that at least half of the children did not get influenced by scolding and told the researcher that they took greens due to their awareness about the health benefits of greens often taught by their teachers in schools. \r\nLiking towards crispy foods than greens. There is no surprise that both urban and rural children liked crispy fried food than greens. The results that cent percentage of rural and urban respondents were found to be liking fried and crispy foods endorsed the statistics given by various public and private organizations that children are inclined to junk foods which are crispy in nature. \r\nPerson feeding the children (mother/father/grandparents). The person who feed the children is also a factor to reckon with because children used to develop a selective liking towards certain members in the family. In some families where both the parents are working, grandparents used to take care of their grandsons/daughters. If the parents and grandparents in a family are not in a position to feed their children sometimes maids are given the task of feeding the children. Hence, children would develop more bonding with maids rather than parents. In depth sociological studies attempted elsewhere portrayed the consequences of less care or no care given by working parents on their children. In the present study also more than half of the children in rural (53.30 per cent) and urban (60.00 per cent) did say that they were influenced by who fed them. Most of the children preferred their mother to feed them followed by grandmothers.\r\n \r\nAbsence of options other than taking greens. A vast majority of rural children (96.70 per cent) reported that they ate greens because there was no option for them other than greens whereas only 56.70 percentages of the urban children were found to be influenced by this factor. The researcher while interviewing could observe that rural people does not give much importance for variety of vegetables and go in for whatever vegetables available to them. Greens are available in plenty and more accessible to rural people. Hence rural women used to prepare greens in more number of days in a week than urban women. Moreover, the lifestyle of urban women is completely at variance from rural women wherein urban women used to visit the nearby retail shop where variety of vegetables would be available. This finding drew support from the finding that urban women increasingly purchase from retail shop reported elsewhere in this report.\r\nQualitative data collected from Children. Apart from using an interview schedule to collect information regarding the profile of children, willingness of children to consume greens and associated factors, a qualitative methodology was followed to add value to the information collection through interview schedule. Following is the excerpts of the varied responses of children.\r\n— On seeing the picture, half the number of students in the group instantaneously said that the picture is a vegetable.\r\n— Majority of the children could tell that the vegetable shown in the photograph is important for human health\r\n— A few children could be able to tell the individual nutrients like Iron, Vitamins and minor elements present in the greens. \r\n— Some of the children told about the varieties of greens available. They could tell the names of the greens like drumstick leaves, thandu keerai, sirukeerai, vallaraikeerai. One of the child told that her mother used to give tablets, pickles made of vallaraikeerai to improve the memory power. \r\n• A sizable number of children told greens are important to improve eye sight, gives energy and improves bone strength. \r\n• A few number of girl children reported that they were told by their mother, if they eat greens, their hair will grow well. \r\n• Some have reported on seeing the photograph that drumstick leaves are being grown in their home garden\r\n• A few children told the greens are bitter and they dislike the greens\r\nIn nut shell, the qualitative data collected from children revealed that all the children interviewed were at least aware of either the health benefits or name of the greens. It is heartening to note that everyone has something to tell about greens and a few could tell about nutritional elements and associated benefits of the greens.\r\nWillingness of rural and urban children to consume greens. Another dimension of the study is to assess the willingness of both urban and rural children put together to consume greens which might have been influenced by several factors. The researcher tried to find the out how the factors enlisted in table 3 contributed to the willingness of greens. While contemplating a model for such a scenario, logistic regression model was found to be appropriate. Since the dependent variable Willingness to consume is dichotomous and was scored ‘1’ and ‘0’ for willing and unwilling, respectively the appropriate model would be logistic regression which will predict the willingness to consume greens, given the profile of children and other influencing factors. The results of logistic regression are given below.\r\nTable 4 presents two important estimate namely cox & Snell R2 and Negelkerke R2. It is evident that both R2 value indicated moderate variance in the dependent variable (Willingness to consume) due to selected independent variables. Among the two measures Negelkerke R2 is to be preferred, since it achieves maximum value of 1. In this case it could be interpreted that 51 per cent of variance in willingness to consume is predicted by selected independent variables. \r\nAnother measure which is important to be interpreted from logistic regression is classification table 5, which gives the measure of how well the model performs in its ability to accurately classify cases in to the two categories of the variables willing and unwilling.\r\nThe overall predictive accuracy is 83.30 per cent. The table 5 did classify much better, the willing children to consume greens as the model correctly predicted 41/1 or 97.60 per cent of these cases. Hence the model is going to have good predicting ability. The following table 6 presents the logistic regression coefficients.\r\nIn logistic regression, the original model is in terms of the log of the odds ratio, or log it. In logistic model, ‘B’ coefficients are the effect of 1 unit change is independent variables on the log odds. The Exp (B) column presents the exponentiated value of B.\r\nIn the present analysis two variables namely ‘appearance of dish made of greens’ and ‘taste of the greens’ were found to be significant at one percent level of probability. \r\nIt could be interpreted that, if a child is influenced by appearance of dish made of greens the odds of his/her willing to consume greens would increase by a factor of 18.68 units. In other words, the willingness of a child improves 18 times if he/she is influenced by the appearance of the dish made of greens. \r\nSimilarly, if a child is influenced by taste of greens, the odds of his/her willingness to consume greens would increase by a factor of 17.58 units. In other words, the willingness of child to consume greens improves 17 times if he/she is influenced by the taste of greens. \r\nIt has already been discussed from table 3 that the taste and appearance could potentially influence the consumption pattern of greens among children. It is obvious that children would be more inclined to foodstuffs which are looking good and tasty. Thus their significance in predicting the willingness could be justified. \r\n\r\n','P. Sheela, M. Ramasubramanian, M. Ganapathy Ramu, A. Anbarasan and N. Periasamy (2022). Preferences of Willingness to Consumption of Green Leafy Vegetables among Rural and Urban School Children in Madurai District of Tamil Nadu, India. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 14(2): 930-936.'),(4980,'125','Enumeration of Oleaginous Yeast from Dairy Environmental Samples','Rajasekhar P.*, Sachindra Babu A., Ramachandra B. and Prabha R.','160 Enumeration of Oleaginous Yeast from Dairy Environmental Samples Rajasekhar P.pdf','',1,'Dairy environmental samples like dung, feed, fodder, sewage, silage and soil samples were collected aseptically form KVAFSU dairy farm, Bengaluru-24, serially diluted and used malt extract agar adjusted to pH 3.5 for total yeast count while malt extract agar (100 ml) incorporated with 3.75 ml of 2 % Sudan black for identifying the oleaginous yeast colonies having black colour with incubation of 300C for 5 days. The counts of total yeast ranged from 5.53 to 6.58 log10 cfu/g whereas 1.40 to 3.20 log10cfu/g of oleaginous yeast was noticed among the dairy environmental samples. Soil sample showed more of both total yeast (6.58) and oleaginous yeast (3.20) with 48.63 % occurrence, while lowest oleaginous yeast of 1 .40 log10cfu/g accounting for 23.53 % was found in fodder. The significance of the present study is direct enumeration of oleaginous yeast from dairy environmental samples by adopting lipid stain Sudan black into agar medium where as many of the authors confirmed the presence of oleaginous yeast after making smear of colonies of yeast by staining using Sudan black and observing the cells for the presence of lipid under microscope. ','Oleaginous yeast, Malt extract agar, Dairy environment, Sudan black, Serial dilution, Asepsis, Soil','The present study thus help to enumerate as well isolate directly the oleaginous yeast that accumulate lipid from any type of samples making the isolation process easy and use of Sudan black in laboratory is helpful as Nile red, a fluorescent dye requiring proper disposal.','INTRODUCTION\r\nDiesel fuel is the common term for the distillate of crude fuel oil sold for use in motor vehicles that use the compression ignition engine named for its inventor. The major cause of increasing carbon dioxide concentration in the atmosphere is excessive consumption of fossil fuels, for example, petroleum, coal, and natural gases. Moreover, excessive consumption of fossil fuel causes not only global warming but also creating global economic problems. Biodiesel is an alternative to diesel obtained from plant, animals and limitations of these sources led to finding of oleaginous microorganisms that include bacteria and yeast. Oleaginous yeast have their own importance with respect to lipid accumulation and conversion to biodiesel. An attempt has been made in this research article to enumerate oleaginous yeast from dairy environmental samples.\r\nOleaginous yeast species are an alternative for the production of lipids or triacylglycerides (TAGs). These yeasts are usually nonpathogenic and able to store TAGs ranging from 20 % to 70 % of their cell mass depending on culture conditions. TAGs originating from oleaginous yeasts can be used as the so-called second-generation biofuels, which are based on non-food competing “waste carbon sources” (Lamers, 2016). Vickers et al. (2017) stated that oleaginous yeasts are advantageous because they can quickly grow to high densities with a high lipid content and their cultures can utilize a large number of renewable substrates and inexpensive materials like food wastes, make oleaginous yeasts economically interesting. Oleaginous yeasts predominantly belong to the genera Rhodosporidium, Cryptococcus, Rhodotorula, Yarrowia, Lipomyces, and Trichosporon (Athenaki et al., 2018 and Blomqvist et al., 2018). \r\nYeast isolates obtained from soil (agricultural, orchards, milk collection area), plant surfaces (leaves, flowers and fruits), waste oils from traditional oil milling houses and dairy products (cheese, milk and yoghurt), fermented foods, samples from fruit surfaces, tabletop swabs, sugar cane juice, sago effluent were screened for lipid accumulation by staining the cells of using Sudan III or Sudan Black (Jiru et al., 2016; Arous et al., 2017a, Vincent et al., 2018; Khobragade et al., 2020). Few authors have used Nile red stain to screen the cells of isolated yeast colonies with the help of flourescent microscope (Patel et al., 2019; Bardhan et al., 2020). \r\n\r\n \r\nMATERIALS AND METHODS\r\nThe samples such as - soil, dung, feed, fodder, silage and sewage water were collected from Department of Instructional Livestock and Farm Complex, College of Veterinary Science, KVAFSU, Hebbal, Bengaluru. All the samples collected were serially diluted in sterile phosphate buffer and pour plated the required dilutions using molten MEA medium adjusted to pH 3.5 using 10 % filter sterile lactic acid and incorporated Sudan black (0.08 %) of 0.2 ml maintained at 47 º - 50 ºC of 10 -15 ml added, mixed gently and incubated after solidification at 30 ºC for 5 days for general yeast and oleaginous yeast, respectively. The black coloured (due to Sudan black that colours the lipid accumulating yeast colonies) non-cottony colonies obtained on the MEA agar were counted and expressed as log10cfu/g. Statistical analysis (Anova) was carried out to identify the statistical significance among the samples and counts of yeast.\r\nRESULTS AND DISCUSSION\r\nAmong the dairy environmental samples such as dung feed, fodder, sewage, silage and soil, soil had higher viable oleaginous yeast (3.20) on Sudan black incorporated malt extract agar (MEA) visible as black colonies (Fig. 1). Out of total yeast of 6.58 log10 cfu/g in soil sample, 3.20 were lipid accumulating yeast termed as oleaginous yeast of 48.63 % and fodder revealed lowest oleaginous yeast of 1.40 log10 cfu/g (23.53 %) out of 5.95 viable yeast counts (Table 1). The high oleaginous counts in soil may be due to oil spillage in dairy farm that would have reached the soil as vehicular movements are more in the farm. As fodder is green, ability of plant cells to hold the lipid may be less and hence low oleaginous yeast counts. Among the dairy environmental samples, when compared with total yeast count, oleaginous yeast presence in per cent among silage, dung, feed and sewage were 47.02, 36.73, 33.11 and 31.86, respectively (Fig. 2). Statistically significant difference (P=.05) did not occur in general yeast count and oleaginous yeast count among the dairy environmental samples. The present study enumerated the oleaginous yeast through Sudan Black stain incorporated media by obtaining black coloured colonies. \r\nMany authors have carried out the isolation of oleaginous yeast but there is lack of data with respect to the counts of oleaginous yeast from samples as all of them used staining of yeast colonies and through staining of cells only confirmed lipid accumulation either using Sudan Black or Sudan III or Nile Red lipid stains. Out of 40 yeast isolates by Pan et al. (2009); Jiru et al. (2016); Vincent et al. (2018); Khobragade et al. (2020); Planonthand Chantarasiri (2022) applied Sudan III or Sudan Black staining to yeast cells and could able to confirm 20(50 %), 18 (5.3 %), 21 (100 %), 6 (27 %) and 6 (37.5 %) yeast isolates accumulated lipid through bright field microscope respectively. While Ashika et al. (2017); Bardhan et al. (2020); Chomchuen et al. (2021) confirmed 3 (100 %), 17 (100 %) and 8 (20.51 %) oleaginous yeast isolates for intracellular lipid using Nile red under fluorescent microscope, respectively. \r\n','Rajasekhar P., Sachindra Babu A., Ramachandra B. and Prabha R .(2022). Enumeration of Oleaginous Yeast from Dairy Environmental Samples. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 14(2): 937-939.'),(4981,'125','Diversity of Spider Fauna (Arachnida: Araneae) in Rice Agro Ecosystem','Gollapelly Ravi *, L.N. Mohapatra, Shaik Moizur Rahman, Prateek Kumar Charati and Revanth T.','161 Diversity of Spider Fauna _Arachnida Araneae_ in Rice Agro Ecosystem Gollapelly Ravi.pdf','',1,'Spiders can be found all over the world, and with the irregularity of air and sea colonization, they have established themselves in virtually every habitat. They are effective crop pest predators due to their prey-finding ability and polyphagy. Spiders are obligate carnivores and are the only arthropod group that is entirely predatory. Predation helps to keep insect populations in check. Consequently, during Kharif 2018-2019 and Kharif 2019-20, the diversity of spider fauna (Arachnida: Araneae) in the rice agro-ecosystem was investigated at the Central Research Station, Odisha University of Agriculture and Technology, Bhubaneswar. Using various sampling methods, 622 spider specimens from 9 species, 7 genera, and 4 families were collected from the rice ecosystem in Bhubaneswar. Species richness (S), Shannon diversity index (H\'), Evenness index (E), Simpson index (D), and effective number of species were used to assess spider species diversity at different growth stages in rice (ENS). The spider species richness increased gradually with the crop\'s growth stages, peaking at the ripening stage (6.8). At the reproductive and ripening phases, higher values of diversity indices, such as Shannon diversity index (H\') (1.76) and evenness index (E) (0.92), revealed a more homogeneous distribution pattern of species, resulting in a higher diversity of spider species. Further, lower values of the Simpson index (D) (0.11) at ripening stage gave an indication that the ecosystem was well protected from any disturbances, along with the presence of some rare spider species.','Rice, spider, diversity, species richness, Shannon diversity index, Simpson index, Evenness index, Odisha','From the above-mentioned discussion with respect to implications of various diversity indices of spiders it is inferred that no single measure or index could reflect the diversity of the spiders in rice under Bhubaneswar conditions. Spider diversity and abundance increased with the growth of rice crop. The spider diversity was moderately stable with even species distribution due to low species richness and is well protected from any disturbances.','INTRODUCTION\r\nThe phylum Arthropoda, class Arachnida, and order Araneae include spiders, which are a major component of global biodiversity. They are the largest Araneae order and have the seventh highest species diversity of any other predatory group of organisms. Spiders are an example of a “megadiverse” group that has been widely accepted as an indicator of environmental quality in ecological studies (Churchill, 1993). Taxonomists have identified more than 45,700 spider species worldwide, divided into 114 families (World Spider Catalogue, 2015). Their ability to hunt in a variety of habitats in a generalist foraging mode, combined with high abundance positions, makes them potential biocontrol agents for terrestrial arthropod populations (Riechert and Lockley 1984). The rice crop, in conjunction with terrestrial and aquatic ecosystems, creates a diverse mosaic of habitats that helps to preserve biological diversity. Wetland rice ecosystems have greater biodiversity than many natural ecosystems. Spiders are the only obligate carnivore arthropods in the rice ecosystem, accounting for about 80% of the predatory fauna (Wang, 1989). In the rice ecosystems of South and Southeast Asia, nearly 350 species of spiders have been identified (Barrion and Litsinger 1995). They can eat large numbers of prey caught in their webs or on the plant or soil surface. Knowledge of spider diversity in agro ecosystems is essential for observing the effects of spiders on herbivorous pests and comprehending how significant changes in the environment can affect spiders. Such research is required in order to design crop pest management tactics that do not disrupt the vast range of natural control provided by these key predators. Pathak and Saha (1999) and Bhattacharya (2000) conducted basic research on the spider fauna of Indian rice fields. Sebastian et al. (2005); Vinothkumar (2012); Rajna et al. (2016); Anitha et al. (2019) reported on the abundance and diversity of major spider predators in rice ecosystems in India. In comparison to other parts of the country, Odisha has very little information on spider diversity and distribution in the rice ecosystem. Hence, the diversity of spider fauna in rice was assessed under the coastal agroclimatic conditions of Bhubaneswar.\r\nMATERIALS AND METHODS\r\nThe present investigation was carried out at the Central Research Station, Department of Entomology, Odisha University of Agriculture and Technology, Bhubaneswar during Kharif 2018 and Kharif 2019. The study area was located at an altitude of 45.9 M (45°52E /20°15N) with an average rainfall of 1505 mm. Documentation of spiders in the rice ecosystem was carried out from the observational strip of rice crop (var: Swarna), which was raised under unprotected conditions following the standard agronomic package of practices. Three methods viz., direct counting method, sweep net method and pit fall trap method were followed to gather information regarding the aerial and ground species composition of spiders at weekly intervals during the morning hours starting from the 7th day after transplanting.\r\nCollected spiders were killed using chloroform and the specimens were preserved separately in 70 per cent ethyl alcohol (70 parts of 100 per cent alcohol +30 parts of distilled water) or formaldehyde for identification purpose. Representative preserved spider specimens (both immature and adult stages) were critically examined under a zoom, stereoscopic, trinocular microscope having 10 × eyepieces and a 0.7 to 4.5× objective lens for their proper identification. Identification up to genus level was done based on the keys given by Barrion and Listenger (1995). Some spider species which could not be identified at our level were sent for identification to Dr. M. Sampath Kumar, Scientist (Entomology), Division of Germplasm collection and characterization, ICAR-National Bureau of Agricultural Insect Resources, Ministry of Agriculture and Farmers Welfare, GOI, P. Bag no. 2491, H.A. farm post Bellary road, Bengalure-504 026, Karnataka, India. The species diversity of spider was assessed at different growth stages in rice during both the seasons using various indices, viz., species richness (S), Shannon diversity index (H’), Evenness index (E), Simpson index (D) and effective number of species (ENS) by using the formulae given below.\r\n•Shannon - wiener index (H’): H’ =∑_(i=1)^n(Pi(Lnpi))\r\nWhere, Pi = proportion of individuals found in this species, Ln = Natural logarithm\r\n•Species evenness (Evenness Index)(E): The evenness index (E) was used to understand species evenness. This was calculated by using the formula (Pielou, 1966).\r\n E= H’/Ln S\r\nWhere, H’ = Shannon –wiener diversity index, Ln = Natural logarithm\r\n S = Total number of species in the sample.\r\n•Simpson index (D): D = ∑_(i =1)^n ((ni(ni-1))/((N(N-1))\r\nni = No. of individuals with species, N= Total no of individuals\r\n•Effective number of species (ENS): this was calculated by the following formula (Shannon and Wiener, 1949).\r\nENS = Exponential (H’), Where H’ = Shannon- wiener index\r\nRESULTS AND DISCUSSION\r\nDuring the course of the study, 622 spider specimens from 9 species, 7 genera, and 4 families were gathered from the rice ecosystem in Bhubaneswar using various sampling methods. Tetragnatha mandibulata (Walckenaer) (Tetragnathidae), long jaw spider, Tetragnatha maxillosa (Thorell) (Tetragnathidae), Wolf Spider, Pardosa pseudoannulata (Boes and Strand) (Lycosidae), Lynx spider, Oxyopesbharatae (Gajbe) (Oxyopidae), Grass cross spider, Argiope catenulate (Doleschall)(Araneidae) and Spotted Orb Weaver, Neoscona elliptical (Tikader and Bal)(Araneidae) were reported at various growth stages of rice during kharif 2018- 2019. While during kharif 2019-20, about eight species of spider from four families viz., T. mandibulata, T. maxillosa, Tailed Spider, Tetragnatha javana (Thorell) (Tetragnathidae), P. pseudoannulata (Lycosidae), O. bharatae (Oxyopidae), A. catenulate, Orb weaving spider, Araneus sp. and Larinia Orb Weaver, Larinia sp (Araneidae) were observed.\r\nSpider diversity: The mean value of various diversity indices compiled over the two seasons at various growth stages of rice is presented in Table 1.\r\n(a) Species richness: Species richness, the most widely adopted diversity measure, examines the number of species occurring in a habitat. Various environmental factors like seasonality, spatial heterogeneity, competition, predation, habitat type, environmental stability, and productivity affect the species diversity in a particular habitat. The different growth stages of rice crop observed in the field along with different arthropod populations were observed in rice crop (Heong et al., 1991). In the present studies, the number of spider species recorded from rice fields was six during kharif 2018-19 and eight during kharif 2019-20. The mean value of species richness over the two seasons increased gradually from 4.2 in vegetative stage to 6.8 at the ripening stage (Table 1). Similar results were also obtained by Barrion and Litsinger (1995) in Phillipines, Anbalagan and Narayanasamy (1999) from Tamil Nadu, Khan and Mishra (2003) from Uttar Pradesh and Patil (2004) in Karnataka, where they studied that the spider population was directly related to the growth stages of the rice plants.\r\n(b) Shannon index (H’): The next diversity index used here was the Shannon index (H’), which is sensitive to changes in the abundance of rare species in a community. The mean Shannon index (H’) value computed over the two seasons progressively increased along with crop growth (1.47 to 1.76) and was highest (1.76) during the ripening stage, showing higher diversity (Table 1). In the present study, the value of H’ increased as crop growth advanced which indicated the presence of some rare species in the spider community and indicated a moderately stable diversity of spider species. According to Goswami et al. (2015), the Shannon index (H) diversity in rice from three districts in Bihar ranged from 1.73 to 2.17 at various growth stages. During the kharif and rabi seasons, respectively the Shannon Index (H\') or species diversity, ranged between 1.53 and 1.81. (Anitha and Vijay 2016). Rice has a higher Shannon index (H) diversity value of 2.18, according to Faria et al. (2016). The variability in Shannon index (H\') values was due to differences in species richness between locations. The current findings corroborate those of previous researchers.\r\n(c) Evenness index (E): In general, species richness and species evenness are two independent characteristics of biological communities that contribute to their diversity (Heip and Engel 1974). Ecologists\' most commonly used evenness index is E, which should be independent of the number of species in the sample. Several studies have shown that adding a rare species to a sample containing only a few species significantly changes the value of E. When all of the species in a sample are equally abundant, the evenness index reaches its maximum, and then decreases to zero as the relative abundance of the species diverges from evenness.\r\n In the present study, a gradual increase in mean evenness (E) value over the two seasons (0.75 in the vegetative phase to 0.92 in the ripening phase) was observed (Table 1). A high evenness value (0.92) was recorded at the reproductive and ripening phases, displaying the distribution of more homogenous species that leads to a higher diversity of spider species. As Pianka (1966) hypothesized, crop development improves prey availability, allowing more spider species to exist. In two years of research, the evenness value (E) in the rice ecosystem at Gujranwala, Pakistan (Ghafoor and Mahmood 2011), 0.69 to 0.72 at different growth stages in rice from three districts in Bihar (Goswami et al., 2015), and 0.59-0.72 in rice at Hyderabad were found in published literature (Anitha et \r\nal., 2019). The current observations are completely consistent with the findings of the previous authors.\r\n(d) Simpson index (D): The Simpson index (D) is a dominance index because it gives more weight to common or dominant species and is sensitive to changes in the most abundant species in a community. The value of D ranges between 0 (infinite diversity) and 1 (no diversity). Mean Simpson index (D) value computed over the two seasons ranged between 0.11 and 0.16 for all the studied growth stages (Table 1). The Simpson index was highest (0.16) at vegetative phase and lowest during the ripening stage (0.11). A declining trend of Simpson index (D) values along with the growth stages in the present study indicated the dominance of some spiders like tetragnathids and lycosids in the initial period of crop growth. Higher D values give an indication that a particular habitat has undergone immediate disturbances, while the lower values suggest protection from disturbances and indicate the presence of less rare spider species. In early and late season rice crops in China\'s Guangdong province, Zhang et al. (2013) found Simpson index (D) values ranging from 0.26 to 0.15. At different growth phases of rice from three districts in Bihar, the Simpson index (D) value ranged from 0.13 to 0.18 (Goswami et al., 2015). In the rice ecosystem at Hyderabad, Anitha and Vijay (2016) calculated Simpson index (D) values of 0.29 during the kharif season and 0.19 during the rabi season. The observed findings are consistent with prior workers\' reports.\r\n(e) Effective number of species (ENS): The effective number of species (ENS) is another measure of diversity which depicts the number of equally common species required to give a particular value of an index. ENS is the reciprocal of D which gives information on the effective number of species in the study area. ENS has been increasingly used for biodiversity monitoring, assessment, and conservation planning. Like Shannon Index (H’) and Evenness (E) index, an increasing trend of values of the effective number of species was also observed during the vegetative, reproductive, and ripening phases of growth in rice (Table 1). At ripening, the effective number of species was maximum (4.80) at ripening phase while it was minimum (3.51) at vegetative phase of growth. As the values of ENS are smaller than the S (species richness), which indicates the presence of an uneven spider community. The current finding was found to be highly supported by Anitha and Vijay (2016), who investigated the effective number of species of 4.62 during the rabi season and 6.11 during the rice ecosystem at Hyderabad.\r\n','Gollapelly Ravi, L.N. Mohapatra, Shaik Moizur Rahman, Prateek Kumar Charati and Revanth T. (2022). Diversity of Spider Fauna (Arachnida: Araneae) in Rice Agro Ecosystem. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 14(2): 940-943.'),(4982,'125','Weed Management in direct Seeded Rice under Conservation Agriculture based Rice - Yellow Sarson - Greengram Cropping System in Lateritic Belt of West Bengal','Koushik Sar and B. Duary*','162 Weed Management in direct Seeded Rice under Conservation Agriculture based Rice - Yellow Sarson - Greengram Cropping System in Lateritic Belt of West Bengal B. Duary.pdf','',1,'Conservation agriculture (CA) is a viable alternate which is suitable for today\'s limited natural resources and changing climate. That\'s why it is becoming a common approach in rainfed areas for water and soil conservation. In CA, problem of weeds can be controlled by both manual weeding and/or by the use of herbicide. However, labour is becoming expensive and is rarely available at the critical time of weeding. . To control weeds, Integrated approaches must be considered and optimized to have proper weed control in conservation agriculture. Keeping this in view, an experiment was conducted at Agriculture Farm, Institute of Agriculture, Visva-Bharati, Sriniketan, West Bengal to investigate the effect of tillage and weed management practices on weed growth and productivity of direct seeded rice in direct seeded rice - yellow sarson -greengram cropping system under conventional and conservation tillage practices during 2018 and 2019. The experiment was set up in a strip plot design with three replications with four horizontal tillage strips and three vertical weed management strips. The Results showed that in both the years conventional tillage together with recommended herbicide (RH) (Pendimethalin at 1.0 kgha-1 followed by bispyribac-sodium at 25 g ha-1) + one hand weeding (HW) recorded the lowest value of total weed density and dry weight at 60 DAS in both the years. Conventional tillage together with recommended herbicide (RH) (Pendimethalin at 1.0 kg ha-1 followed by bispyribac-sodium at 25 g ha-1) + one hand weeding (HW) also registered higher grain yield than other treatments.','Conservation agriculture, conventional tillage, direct seeded rice, pendimethalin, recommended herbicide, residue, weed management','Thus, after the fifth cropping cycle, it can be concluded that conventional tillage with recommended herbicides + one hand weeding at 35 DAS in direct seeded rice in the lateritic belt of West Bengal is recommended for effective weed management and higher rice productivity in the direct seeded rice-yellow sarson-greengram cropping system.','INTRODUCTION\r\nFor more than half of the world\'s population, rice (Oryza sativa L.) is one of the most important staple foods. The rice production area in India as of the year 2019-20 is estimated to be about 43.78 million hectares with a production of 122.4 million tonnes (Anonymous, 2021). Direct seeded rice (DSR) has a higher weed population than transplanted rice. Weed infestation is one of the leading causes of low productivity, with 50-60% output loss due to crop and weed seeds germinating at the same time (Pinjari et al., 2016). Weed control in conservation agriculture (CA) is more difficult than in conventional agriculture because tillage activities do not bury weed seeds. Crop residue when retained in ZT practice, suppress weed growth, maintain soil temperature, and control air pollution caused due to residue burning (Sharma et al., 2012). Tillage, crop establishment method, machinery, agronomic practices etc. play crucial role in weed management in conservation agriculture (Laford et al., 2009). High labour expenses and timely unavailability have increased the use of herbicides in CA. Because a single herbicide cannot control a wide range of weeds, conservation agriculture can benefit from integrated weed management. In a conservation agriculture-based DSR-yellow sarson-greengram cropping system, the current experiment was done to investigate the effects of tillage and weed management measures on weed growth and rice productivity.\r\nMATERIAL AND METHODS \r\nA long term experiment on DSR-yellow sarson- greengram cropping system was started in2015-16. The present experiment on DSR was conducted during 2018 and 2019 under the same cropping system (4th and 5th year of the system) at Agriculture Farm, Institute of Agriculture, Visva-Bharati, Sriniketan, West Bengal. The texture of the soil in the experimental field was sandy loam. With three replications, the experiment was set up as a strip plot. The horizontal strip was divided into four tillage practises, including conventional tillage (CT) (DSR) — CT (yellow sarson) — CT (greengram), CT (DSR) — zero tillage (ZT) (yellow sarson) — ZT (greengram), ZT (DSR) — ZT (yellow sarson) — ZT (greengram), ZT + residue (R) (DSR) and three weed management practices, viz. recommended herbicides (RH) (pendimethalin at 1.0 kg ha-1 followed by bispyribac-sodium at 25 g ha-1 in DSR, pendimethalin at 0.75 kg ha-1 each in yellow sarson and greengram), Recommended herbicides + hand weeding (HW) at 35 days after sowing (DAS), Unweeded control were assigned to the vertical strip. Rice, yellow sarson, and greengram were grown using crop varieties \'MTU-1010,\' \'B-9,\' and \'Samrat,\' respectively. The zero till ferti-seed drill machine was used to sow direct seeded rice and greengram. The seed rate for direct seeded rice was 50 kg ha-1, 5 kg ha-1 for yellow sarson, and 25 kg ha-1 for greengram. The recommended fertiliser doses of N, P2O5, and K2O were applied: 80:40:40 kg ha-1 in DSR, 80:40:40 kg ha-1 in yellow sarson, and 20:40:40 kg ha-1 in greengram. Herbicides were sprayed using a hand operated knapsack sprayer. All other agronomic recommendations were followed, and plant protection measures were used as needed. Weed counts were recorded by inserting 50 cm × 50 cm quadrats from the specified sampling area of 1.0 m2 in each plot, then drying them in a hot air oven at 70o C to determine weed dry weight. At harvest, rice yield attributes and grain yield were recorded and statistically assessed at a 5% level of significance.\r\nRESULTS AND DISCUSSION\r\nA. Effect on weeds\r\nDigitaria sanguinalis and Echinochloa colona were the most common grassy weeds in DSR during all tillage techniques in 2018 and 2019. Cynodondactylon, Setaria glauca, and Panicum repens were present as major grassy weeds under conservation tillage (ZT+R-ZT+R-ZT+R) and zero tillage (ZT-ZT-ZT). Ludwigia parviflora was the most common broadleaved weed detected under all tillage regimes for both the years. In addition to these Eclipta alba and Cleome viscose were the predominant broadleaved weeds in zero tillage and conservation tillage and in conventional tillage (CT-CT-CT) and conventional fb zero tillage (CT-ZT-ZT), Lindernia crustacea, Alternanthera sessilis and Spilanthes acmella were present as pre-dominant broadleaved weeds. Fimbristylis miliacea and Cyperus iria were the most predominant sedges in DSR under all the tillage practices during 2018 and 2019. Chakraborti et al. (2015 and 2017); Duary et al. (2016) both found similar weed flora in DSR.\r\nConventional tillage recorded lower total density and dry weight of weed than other tillage practices at 60 DAS and it was at par with conventional fb zero tillage (Table 1 and Fig. 1). Conventional tillage (CT-CT-CT) recorded 25.85 and 21.62 % lower total weed dry weight as compared to zero tillage (ZT-ZT-ZT) in 2018 and 2019, respectively. \r\nHigher weed density and dry weight was recorded under low soil-disturbance systems as a result of zero tillage is likely to leave considerable amount of the weed seeds on the soil surface, where light encourages seed germination, resulting in more seedling emergence than high soil-disturbance system (Chauhan and Johnson 2009). The recommended herbicide in combination with one-hand weeding was found to be superior to other weed management approaches. Application of pendimethalin at 1.0 kg ha-1 fb bispyribac sodium at 25 g ha-1 at 20 DAS fb one hand weeding at 35 DAS recorded 84.92 and 82.48% lower total weed dry weight at 60 DAS than unweeded control in 2018 and 2019, respectively. The interaction effect was significant, indicating that under conventional tillage (CT-CT-CT and CT-ZT-ZT), the recommended herbicide combined with one hand weeding resulted in the lowest total weed density and dry weight at 60 DAS than conservation tillage (ZT-R+ZT+R-ZT+R and ZT-ZT-ZT) in both the years. In rice, efficient weed control was performed under pendimethalin fb manual weeding and pendimethalin fb bispyribac-Na fb manual weeding at all the stages of observations (Pinjari et al., 2016). Echinochloa sp. and Digitaria sanguinalis were well controlled by the sequential application of pendimethalin and bispyribac sodium, whereas Eragrostis spp. and Leptochloa chinensis were poorly controlled (Brar and Bhullar, 2012) .Pavithra et al. (2021) found that pendimethalin 1.0 kg ha-1 at 3 days after seeding (DAS) and fb bispyribac sodium 30 g ha-1 at 30 DAS were the most effective weed control treatments, with the lowest weed density and biomass of rice.\r\nB. Effect on crop\r\nDuring both years, tillage and weed management strategies had a considerable impact on rice grain yield. Among the tillage practises, conventional tillage (CT-CT-CT) produced the highest yield in both the years and it was at par with conventional fb zero tillage (CT-ZT-ZT).In 2018, conventional tillage (CT-CT-CT) yielded 30.90 and 22.67% more grain yield than zero tillage (ZT-ZT-ZT) and conservation tillage (ZT-R+ZT+R-ZT+R). In 2019, conventional tillage (CT-CT-CT) enhanced grain yield by 34.60 and 24.71% above zero tillage (ZT-ZT-ZT) and conservation tillage (ZT+R-ZT+R-ZT+R), respectively. Similar results have been reported by Govindan and Chinnusamy (2014); Paliwal et al. (2017); Surin et al. (2019). In a rice–wheat system, Upasani et al. (2014) found that continuous conventional tillage yielded 39.84 percent more than continuous zero tillage. \r\nAmong the weed management practices, recommended herbicide combined with one hand weeding at 35 DAS registered highest grain yield over other treatments during both the years. Grain yield was reduced by 67.42 and 70.19 % under unweeded control as compared to recommended herbicide with one hand weeding in 2018 and 2019, respectively. During both years, the interaction effect of tillage and weed control practises on grain yield was substantial, indicating that conventional tillage (CT-CT-CT) combined with prescribed herbicide and one hand weeding produced the highest grain yield and it was at par same treatment imposed under conventional fb zero tillage (CT-ZT-ZT). \r\n','Koushik Sar and B. Duary (2022). Weed Management Indirect Seeded Rice under conservation Agriculture based Rice - Yellow Sarson - Greengram Cropping System in Lateritic Belt of West Bengal. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 14(2): 944-947.'),(4983,'125','Genetic Variability Study in Bread Wheat (Triticum aestivum L.) under Normal and Late Sown conditions','Nikita S. Patel*, J.B. Patel and Lata J. Raval','163 Genetic Variability Study in Bread Wheat _Triticum aestivum L._ under Normal and Late Sown conditions Nikita S. Patel.pdf','',1,'Wheat is a temperate crop that is susceptible to high temperature. Its different growth stages have different temperature requirements and when exposed to extreme temperature, physiological behaviour and yield are affected negatively. Therefore, choosing a suitable genotype for particular climatic and sowing conditions is very important. In crop species, phenotypes are controlled mainly by genetic make-up of such crop coupled with kinds of environments where they are being grown and the interactions exist between the genotypes and environments. Therefore, it is necessary to divide the observed phenotypic variability into heritable and non-heritable components with parameters viz., phenotypic and genotypic coefficient of variation, heritability and genetic advance. Looking to these, the present study was conducted under normal (E1 and E3 ) and late sown condition (E2 and E4) during rabi 2019-20 and rabi 2020-21 by keeping objectives of estimation of variability parameters for sixteen different characters including grain yield per plant. Most of the characters studied displayed ample range of variation under late sown conditions than normal sown conditions. Wide range of variation was showed by all the characters studied except flag leaf area and canopy temperature depression, which showed modest phenotypic range under both the sowing conditions. Phenotypic coefficient of variation were higher than their corresponding genotypic coefficient of variation under normal (E1 and E3) and late sown (E2 and E4) conditions in both the years (rabi 2019-20 and rabi 2020-21), signifying the influence of environmental factors. However, the differences between phenotypic and genotypic coefficient of variation were not considerable. In normal as well as late sown conditions, based on modest to high values of different variability parameters, especially modest to high value of heritability accompanied by modest to high genetic advance as percentage of mean, the characters viz., grain yield per plant, harvest index, productive tillers per plant, spikelets per main spike, grains per main spike, plant height, days to 50 per cent heading, spike length, grain filling period, days to anthesis, SPAD-chlorophyll meter reading and days to maturity, which might also be ascribed to additive gene action controlling the expression of these traits and that phenotypic selection for improvement of these traits could be made under normal as well as late sowing conditions. ','Bread wheat, Variability, Heritability, Genetic advance','On the basis of variability parameters studied, it can be concluded that grain yield per plant, harvest index, productive tillers per plant, spikelets per main spike, grains per main spike, plant height, days to 50 per cent heading, spike length, grain filling period, days to anthesis, SPAD-chlorophyll meter reading and days to maturity, which might also be ascribed to additive gene action controlling the expression of the traits and phenotypic selection for improvement of these traits could be brought about under normal as well as late sowing conditions. ','INTRODUCTION\r\nWheat is widely grown all over the world and stands first among the cereals both in area and production. It has been described as the “King of Cereals” because of the growing area it occupies, and high productivity and top position it holds in the international food grain trade. Wheat is a crop of global significance grown in diversified environments. It is an important cereal crop of cool weather and plays vital role in food and nutritional security of world. It provides food for 40 per cent of the worldwide population and contributes 20 per cent of the food calories (Bhutto et al., 2016). The nutria-rich cereal is grown in diversified environments; internationally wheat occupies around 217 million hectares holding the position of maximum acreage among all crops with an annual production hanging around 731 million tonnes (Anon., 2018).\r\nBefore initiating any form of improvement programme in any agricultural crop, including wheat, a sound knowledge pertaining to the amount of genetic variability existing in such crop species for various traits is essential. Estimation of the variation in grain yield determining quantitative traits of the crop is a pre-requisite in breeding to improve yield. In crop species, phenotypes are controlled mainly by genetic make-up of such crop coupled with kinds of environments where they are being grown as well as the interactions between the genotypes and the environments. Therefore, it is necessary to divide the observed phenotypic variability into heritable and non-heritable components with parameters viz., phenotypic and genotypic coefficient of variation, heritability and genetic advance. Estimates of genetic parameters offers an indication of the relative importance of the various types of gene effect, that affecting the total variation of a plant character. In fact, genotypic and phenotypic coefficient of variation and heritability accompanied with genetic advance are very important parameters in improving traits. Genotypic and phenotypic components of variance, heritability and genetic advance for different yield traits revealed that selection was effective for a population with broad genetic variability and characters with high heritability. \r\nAmong many abiotic and biotic stresses, terminal heat stress is one of the major constraint to the global wheat production, particularly in tropical and sub tropical regions of South Asia including large portion of India (Joshi et al., 2007). Yield loss may be up to 40 per cent under severe heat stress (Hays et al., 2007). It has been observed that a heat wave (35–37° C) for 3–4 days modifies grain morphology and reduces grain size (Wardlaw and Wrigley, 1994). Shew et al. (2020) found that, increase in 1°C temperature resulted in average wheat yield reduction of 8.5 per cent, which increases to 18.4 per cent and 28.5 per cent under increase of 2 and 3°C temperature. Hence, keeping in view the above facts and figures, it is the need of the hour that for identifying the heat tolerant wheat genotypes which can be utilized in crop improvement programme, first basic need is to study the variability in relation to high temperature. The present study was conducted in four different environments created by sowing dates in two different seasons (rabi 2019-20 and rabi 2020-21) to estimate the genetic variability parameters which may useful for the development of efficient cultivars adapted to high temperature conditions. \r\nMATERIALS AND METHODS\r\nGeographically Junagadh is situated at 21.5° N latitude and 70.5°E longitudes with an elevation of 60 meters above the mean sea level. The soil of trial site was medium black, alluvial in origin having pH 7.8. The weather of the area represents tropical situation with semi-arid nature. The experimental materials consisted of 52 genotypes of bread wheat obtained from Wheat Research Station, Junagadh Agricultural University, Junagadh. These genotypes were sown on 18th November and 18th December under timely and late sown condition, respectively during rabi 2019-20 and rabi 2020-21 in Randomized Block Design (RBD) replicated thrice at the Sagdividi Farm, Department of Seed Science and Technology, College of Agriculture, Junagadh Agricultural University, Junagadh, which created four different environments. Each genotype was sown in a single row plot of 3.0 m length with a spacing of 22.5 cm. All the recommended crop production and protection practices were followed timely for the successful raising of crop. The detail sowing time and year of experimentation is given in Table 1. The field view of all the four environments is depicted in Figs.1 to 4. In each plot, five plants were randomly selected and tagged excluding terminal ones to minimize border effects. The observations were recorded on these five randomly selected plants in each genotype and in each replication for 16 different characters except days to 50 per cent heading, days to anthesis, grain filling period and days to maturity, which were recorded on plot basis. Mean values of all the characters studied were used for statistical analysis. The analysis of variance to test the variation among the trial material was carried out using Randomized Block Design (RBD) as per procedure outlined by Panse and Sukhatme (1985). The genotypic and phenotypic coefficient of variation, which measures the amount of genotypic and phenotypic variation, respectively present in a particular character, was estimated as per the formula suggested by Burton and De Vane (1953). Heritability in broad sense was calculated by using the formula suggested by Allard (1960). The expected genetic advance at 5% selection intensity was estimated by using formula as suggested by Allard (1960). The genetic advance expressed as per cent of mean was calculated as under:\r\nRESULTS AND DISCUSSION\r\nGenetic variability is pre-requisite for any crop improvement programme, as it provides wider scope for selection. Genotypic coefficient of variation measures the total of variation present for a particular character. However, it does not determine the amount of heritable variation of the total variation present for particular character. Johnson et al. (1955) suggested that heritability and genetic gain when worked out together would be more useful in predicting the resultant effect of selection. Therefore, in the present investigation, mean values, phenotypic (PCV) and genotypic (GCV) coefficients of variation, heritability, genetic advance and genetic advance expressed as percentage of mean were estimated. \r\nThe results of analysis of variance for experimental design in individual environments [Rabi-2019-20 (E1 and E2) and Rabi-2020-21 (E3 and E4)] carried out for 16 different characters, indicated that mean squares due to genotypes were significant for all the characters studied in all the environments, indicating presence of considerable genetic variation among the genotypes evaluated in the trial.\r\nMost of the characters studied displayed ample range of variation under late sown conditions than normal sown conditions (Table 2), suggests that study material contained some heat tolerant genotypes. Wide range of variation was showed by all the characters studied except flag leaf area and canopy temperature depression, which showed modest phenotypic range under both the sowing conditions. Similar results were also reported by Zeeshan et al. (2014), Malav (2015); Rahman et al. (2016). Characters which exhibited large variation had more scope of improvement while making selection of genotypes under the respective sowing condition. \r\nDue to influence of environment, the estimates of phenotypic coefficient of variation were of higher magnitude than the estimates of genotypic coefficient of variation for all the characters studied under normal (E1 and E3) and late sown (E2 and E4) conditions in both the years (rabi 2019-20 and rabi 2020-21) (Table 2). But the differences between them were not substantial, indicated that characters were comparatively stable to the environment (Majumdar et al. 1969). This also suggested that genetic cause was predominantly responsible for the expression of these traits and selection could be effectively made on the basis of phenotypic performance. Similar results have been reported by Amin et al. (2016); Sapi et al. (2017); Bhanu et al. (2018); Hossain et al. (2021).\r\n In normal sown condition of rabi 2019-20 and rabi 2020-21 (E1 and E3), high genotypic coefficient of variation (32.90 % and 34.33 %) was observed for productive tillers per plant. The modest genotypic coefficient of variation was found for grains per main spike (18.21 % and 18.33 %), spikelets per main spike (15.22 % and 15.53 %), grain yield per plant (12.88 % and 12.87 %), spike length (12.13 % and 12.69 %), harvest index (11.26 % and 9.76 %), days to 50 per cent heading (10.97 % and 11.35 %) and grain filling period (10.35 % and 11.26 %). The modest GCV of 18.21 per cent was recorded in E1 for harvest index, while it was low (9.76 %) in E3 condition for harvest index. The estimated values of genotypic coefficient of variation were low in remaining traits studied in both the normal sowing conditions. In late sown condition (E2 and E4) of rabi 2019-20 and rabi 2020-21, the high genotypic coefficient of variation was observed for grain yield per plant (24.52 % and 24.78 %), harvest index (26.46 % and 24.45 %), number of productive tillers per plant (23.02 % and 23.36 %). The moderate genotypic coefficient of variation was found for number of spikelets per main spike (16.96 % and 16.85 %), number of grains per main spike (16.05 %and 16.39 %), plant height (14.94 % and 14.95 %), grain filling period (12.88 % and 15.09 %), spike length (12.62 % and 12.41 %) and days to 50 per cent heading (12.11 % and 12.35 %). The high GCV of 22.56 per cent was recorded in E2 for canopy temperature depression, while it was low (9.76 %) in E4 condition for canopy temperature depression. The estimated values of genotypic coefficient of variation were low in remaining traits studied in both the late sown conditions.\r\nUnder normal sown condition of rabi 2019-20 and rabi 2020-21 (E1 and E3), the phenotypic coefficient of variation was observed high for number of productive tillers per plant (34.59 % and 35.60 %). The phenotypic coefficient of variation was found medium for number of grains per main spike (18.77 % and 18.92 %), number of spikelets per main spike (16.04 % and 16.22 %), grain yield per plant (14.70 % and 14.38 %), canopy temperature depression (14.70 % and 13.42 %), harvest index (13.94 % and 19.39 %), grain filling period (12.79 % and 13.20 %), spike length (12.83 % and 13.40 %), days to 50 per cent heading (11.69 % and 11.57 %) and plant height (10.55 % and 10.76 %). While the estimated values of phenotypic coefficient of variation were noted low in remaining traits in both the normal sown conditions. Under late sown condition of rabi 2019-20 and rabi 2020-21 of experimentation (E2 and E4), the high phenotypic coefficient of variation was observed for harvest index (26.97 % and 26.44 %) followed by number of productive tillers per plant (26.41 % and 24.81 %), grain yield per plant and (26.53 % and 25.61 %). The phenotypic coefficient of variation was found moderate for number of spikelets per main spike (18.81 % and 18.38 %), number of grains per main spike (17.25 % and 17.21 %), grain filling period (16.41 and 16.10 %), plant height (15.46 % and 15.46 %), spike length (13.31 % and 13.09 %) and days to 50 per cent heading (12.34 % and 12.44 %). The value of PCV was high (24.70 %) for canopy temperature depression in E2 late sowing condition, while it was moderate for canopy temperature depression (14.02 %) and biological yield per plant (10.75 %) in E4 late sown condition. The estimated values of phenotypic coefficient of variation were found low in remaining traits in respective late sown conditions. \r\nIn general, harvest index, productive tillers per plant, grain yield per plant, canopy temperature depression, spikelets per main spike, grains per main spike, grain filling period, plant height, spike length and days to 50 per cent heading possessed high to modest magnitude of phenotypic and genotypic coefficients of variation under both the normal sown as well as late sown conditions.\r\nHigh genotypic and phenotypic coefficient of variation was observed for harvest index by Kumar et al. (2014); Singh et al. (2018); for grain yield per plant by Kumar et al. (2014); Amin et al. (2016); Bhanu et al. (2018); Singh et al. (2018) and Poudel et al. (2021); and for productive tillers per plant by Kumar et al. (2013), Degewione et al. (2013); Desheva and Kyosev (2015). Moderate GCV and PCV values were noted by Dhananjay et al. (2012) for biological yield per plant, ear length, tillers per plant and grains per spike. Similarly, Nukasani et al. (2013) recorded moderate GCV and PCV values for 1000 grain weight, spike length, grains per spike, plant height and spikelets per spike; Desheva and Kyosev (2015) for 1000-grain weight and plant height; Malav (2015) for plant height, grain filling period and days to maturity; and Poudel et al. (2021) for thousand grain weight and grains per main spike. \r\nThe coefficient of variation does not offer full scope to estimate the heritable variation. The relative amount of heritable portion of variation is assessed with the help of heritability estimates and genetic advance expressed as percentage of mean (genetic gain). The success of selection depends on the breeding value of a genotype recognized from its phenotypic appearance. The degree of correspondence between phenotypic value and breeding value for a character is measured by heritability, which indicates reliability of former as a guide to the later. The heritability is a good index of transmission of characters from parents to their off-springs (Falconer, 1981). High values of heritability in broad sense are helpful in recognizing the proper character for selection and facilitating the breeder to select superior genotypes on the basis of phenotypic look of quantitative traits (Johnson et al., 1955).\r\nHigh estimates of heritability (> 60 %) were observed for all the traits studied including grain yield per plant under normal and late sown conditions in both the years except for biological yield per plant (49.68 %), flag leaf area (45.94 %) and canopy temperature depression (44.44 %) in E1; flag leaf area (58.57 %) and biological yield per plant (42.16 %) in E2; harvest index (52.79 %), biological yield per plant (45.32 %), canopy temperature depression (43.24 %) and flag leaf area (36.47 %) in E3; and biological yield per plant (52.82 %), canopy temperature depression (42.98 %) and flag leaf area (42.51 %) in E4; which expressed modest heritability. \r\nIn general, heritability values did not differ much under both the sowing conditions for all the characters which may be due to the less influence of environment on the expression of traits. High to modest heritability estimates indicated that the characters were least influenced by the environmental effects, also suggested that the phenotypes were the true representative of their genotypes for these traits and selection based on phenotypic values could be reliable. Characters showing high heritability values indicate that they have more number of additive factors (Panse, 1957; Majumdar et al., 1969). \r\nRapid progress in selection can be achieved when high heritability is accompanied with the high genetic advance, which forms the most reliable index for selection (Burton, 1952). Since the magnitude of genetic advance is influenced by the units of measurement, it was further expressed as percentage of mean (genetic gain) and considered as an important selection parameter. The genetic gain reveals the genetic potential of the character under selection and effectiveness of selection. If the heritability was mainly due to additive effects, it would be associated with high genetic advance and if it was due to non-additive (dominance and epistasis) effects, the genetic advance would be low (Panse, 1957). The characters exhibiting high heritability along with high genetic gain possess selective value and offer ample scope for competent selection. \r\nHigh values of genetic advance expressed as percentage of mean was exhibited by productive tillers per plant (64.46 % and 68.18 %), grains per main spike (36.31 % and 36.59 %), spikelets per main spike (29.73 % and 30.64 %), spike length (23.61 % and 24.75 %), grain yield per plant (23.24 % and 23.72 %) and days to 50 per cent heading (22.11 % and 22.92 %) under normal sowing (E1 and E3) of both the seasons. While moderate estimates were found for days to anthesis (19.21 % and 19.45 %), harvest index (18.72 % and 14.56 %), plant height (18.35 % and 18.76 %), grain filling period (17.23 % and 19.78 %), days to maturity (14.06 % and 14.49 %), SPAD-chlorophyll meter reading (12.11 % and 11.33 %) in E1 and E3, and 1000 grain weight (10.23 %) in E3. Under late sowing (E2 and E4) of both the seasons, high estimates of genetic gain was found for harvest index (53.48 % and 45.56 %), grain yield per plant (48.50 % and 49.40 %), number of productive tillers per plant (41.32 % and 45.31 %), number of spikelets per main spike (31.50 % and 31.79 %), number of grains per main spike (30.80 % and 32.16 %), plant height (29.73 % and 29.77 %), days to 50 per cent heading (24.94 % and 25.23 %), spike length (24.62 % and 24.23 %) and grain filling period (20.80 % and 29.10 %) in both the years, while for canopy temperature depression (42.44 %) in E2 only. Canopy temperature depression had moderate estimates (12.41 %) for genetic gain in E4. Moderate values were recorded for genetic advance as per cent of mean for days to anthesis (18.81 % and 19.22 %), SPAD-chlorophyll meter reading (10.94 % and 10.94 %) and days to maturity (10.80 % and 12.41 %) in both E2 and E4 environments. Overall, moderate to high value of heritability accompanied by moderate/high genetic advance as percentage of mean was expressed by grain yield per plant, harvest index, productive tillers per plant, spikelets per main spike, grains per main spike, plant height, days to 50 per cent heading, spike length, grain filling period, days to anthesis, SPAD-chlorophyll meter reading and days to maturity, which might also be ascribed to additive gene action controlling the expression of the traits and that phenotypic selection for improvement of these traits could be brought about. \r\nHigh heritability couples with high genetic advance as per cent of mean was observed for days to anthesis by Amin et al. (2016) ; Bhanu et al. (2018); for days to heading by Degewione et al. (2013), Amin et al. (2016) and Bhanu et al. (2018); for days to maturity by Amin et al. (2016); Bhanu et al. (2018); for grain filling period by Amin et al. (2016) and Gerema et al. (2020); for productive tillers per plant by Zeeshan et al. (2014); for plant height by Amin et al. (2016); for spike length by Singh et al. (2018); for spikelets per main spike by Amin et al. (2016) and Hossain et al. (2021); for grains per main spike by Gerema et al. (2020); Hossain et al. (2021); for harvest index by Zeeshan et al. (2014); Singh et al. (2018); for 1000-grain weight by Zeeshan et al. (2014); Rahman et al. (2016); Bhanu et al. (2018); Singh et al. (2018); Hossain et al. (2021); Poudel et al. (2021); and for grain yield per plant by Degewione et al. (2013); Zeeshan et al. (2014); Amin et al. (2016); Singh et al. (2018); Hossain et al. (2021); Poudel et al. (2021). \r\n','Nikita S. Patel, J.B. Patel and Lata J. Raval (2022). Genetic Variability Study in Bread Wheat (Triticum aestivum L.) Under Normal and Late Sown Conditions. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 14(2): 948-954.'),(4984,'125','A Study on Marketing Behaviour of Organic Farmers under Paramparagrat Krishi Vikas Yojana (PKVY)','M. Supriya* and J. Venkata Pirabu','164 A Study on Marketing Behaviour of Organic Farmers under Paramparagrat Krishi Vikas Yojana _PKVY_ M. Supriya.pdf','',1,'The need for organic farming in India arises from the unsustainability of agricultural production and the damage caused to ecology through the conventional farming practices. The study focused on marketing behaviour of the Paramparagrat Krishi Vikas Yojana (PKVY) beneficiaries which will be helpful to understand about the organic market status in North Western Zone of Tamil Nadu. A sample of 240 PKVY beneficiaries was selected from four revenue villages from each block based on proportionate random sampling technique. The supply chain in our country is underdeveloped because most of them were small and marginal farmers located in remote areas. The overall marketing behaviour of PKVY beneficiaries were studied using fifteen components to find out the procedure followed for marketing of organic produce in our study area. Percentage analysis was carried out in this study. Majority of the beneficiaries had medium level of marketing behaviour. ','Marketing behaviour, PKVY beneficiaries, PGS certified farmers, Tamil Nadu','This study revealed that the respondents were found to have medium to high level of marketing behaviour. The result might be due to the reason that the respondents had a good knowledge about the marketing trend so as to get good price for their produce through PKVY. The government should fix premium price for organic produce and establish more number of organic outlets in all the districts through PKVY. Policy interventions should be made in order to establish organic processing industries and more organic shops in every district. ','INTRODUCTION \r\nOrganic production and trade has been emerged as an important sector in India and in other parts of developing world. The total land under organic farming increased from 11 million hectare in 1999 to 69.8 million hectares in 2018, and the total number of organic producers increased from 2 Lakh in 1999 to 2.7 million in 2018. The organic sector is indisputably growing and is structuring itself very fast, especially in industrialized countries (FAO, 2000), a fact which is reasonable since organic fanning offers many benefits, both from an environmental and a socioeconomic point of view. Healthy food, according to consumers, should be free from artificial ingredients or additives, high in healthy components, and minimally processed (Vilceanu, 2019). The market of organic products, is a market of differentiated, quality products and primarily requires long-term strategic policies and tools in order to establish effective market conditions. One set of marketing tools that a company could use to pursue its marketing objectives in the target market is the Marketing Mix. These tools are classified into four major groups, known as the four Ps: product, price, place and promotion (Kotler, 2000). The study focused on marketing behaviour of the Paramparagrat Krishi Vikas Yojana (PKVY) beneficiaries which will be helpful to understand about the organic market status in North Western Zone of Tamil Nadu. \r\nMETHODOLOGY\r\nIn North western zone Salem and Krishnagiri districts were purposively selected because of its highest number of Participatory Guarantee System (PGS) certified farmers. From each district two blocks were selected based on more number of certified farmers. A sample of 240 PKVY beneficiaries was selected from four revenue villages from each block based on proportionate random sampling technique. The overall marketing behaviour of PKVY beneficiaries were studied using fifteen components. Percentage analysis was carried out in this study. \r\nFINDINGS AND DISCUSSION\r\nForm of produce. From the Table 1, it can be concluded that more than two – third (68.34 per cent) of the beneficiaries sell their products in raw form and the remaining more than one – third (31.66 per cent) of the beneficiaries sell their products in processed form. \r\nIn Salem district, more than two – third (69.17 per cent) of the beneficiaries sell their products in raw form and the more than one – third (30.83 per cent) of the beneficiaries sell their products in processed form. Whereas, in Krishnagiri district more than two – third (67.50 per cent) of the beneficiaries sell their products in raw form and more than one – third (33.50 per cent) of the beneficiaries in processed form. Sivaraj et al., (2018) had obtained similar results in an corresponding study. \r\nMajority of the farmers sell their products in raw form because most of them were small and marginal farmers and they sell their products soon after the harvest so that they get immediate cash. Also, wholesalers and local merchants who purchase the complete crop from organic farmers pay them a fair price. Similarly, private organic shops that work with contract farmers normally make a one-time payment during the procurement process. This could be one of the reasons why most organic farmers sell their produce soon after harvest.\r\nGrading of product. Grading is an important step in organic farming marketing. Based on grading, quality of the produce will be analysed. It is evident from the Table majority of the beneficiaries (82.08 per cent) used to grade their marketing produce, whereas 17.92 per cent of the beneficiaries did not grade their produce. \r\nIn salem district, majority of the beneficiaries (81.67 per cent) graded their marketing produce and the remaining (18.33 per cent) did not opt for grading.\r\nIn krishnagiri district, majority of the beneficiaries (82.50 per cent) used to grade their marketing produce whereas (17.50 per cent) of the beneficiaries did not grade their produce.\r\nIt could be inferred from the findings, majority of the beneficiaries opted for grading their produce while selling to commission agent and other cooperative markets as they benefitted from additional income when compared to non graded products. \r\nMode of packaging. Packaging increases the product efficiency and safety. It could be inferred from the Table , about one third (31.67 per cent) of the PKVY beneficiaries packed their products in gunny bags followed by one-fourth (25.42 per cent) in polythene bags, 15.00 per cent in corrugated fiber board, 17.91 per cent in wooden box and a meager per cent (10.00 per cent) used plastic trays.\r\nIn Salem district, one-third (33.33 per cent) of the PKVY beneficiaries packed their products in gunny bags followed by one-fourth (25.83 per cent) in polythene bags, 14.17 per cent used corrugated fiber board, 17.50 per cent wooden box and a meager per cent (9.00 per cent) used plastic trays.\r\nIn Krishnagiri district, nearly one-third (30.00 per cent) of the PKVY beneficiaries packed their products in gunny bags followed by one-fourth (25.83 per cent) in polythene bags, 15.83 per cent used corrugated fiber board, 18.34 per cent used wooden box and a meager per cent (10.00 per cent) used plastic trays.\r\nAn overview of the table indicated that majority used to pack their produce in gunny bags. This might be because of easy availability and carrying capacity as most crops were cereals and pulses and using gunny bags will increase the storage capacity and shelf life of the produce. In Krishnagiri district, major crops were fruits and vegetables so they used corrugated fiber board for safe transportation of their produce. \r\nQuantify of produce. More than two-fifth (42.08 per cent) of the PKVY beneficiaries weigh their produce by volume, followed by two-fifth (40.42 per cent) used to weigh their produce and (17.50 per cent) quantify their products by numbers.\r\nIn Salem district, more than two-fifth (43.33 per cent) of PKVY beneficiaries weigh their produce by volume, followed by both quantification by volume and by weight fall under same category two-fifth (40.83 per cent).\r\nIn krishnagiri district, more than two-fifth (43.33 per cent) of PKVY beneficiaries weigh their produce by volume, followed by two-fifth (40.00 per cent) used to weight their produce and (16.67 per cent) quantify their products by numbers.\r\nMost of the used to weigh their produce this is mainly due to get reasonable price for their produce and in organic market. There sales were mainly with cooperative market and whole sale so there quantification was a regular process. \r\nStorage of produce. In case of storage of organic produce, nearly two-third (39.16 per cent) of the beneficiaries store their produce in storage godowns, nearly one-third (32.08 per cent) store their products on farm itself, (20.42 per cent) store their produce in marketing shops or market place itself and only (8.34 per cent) of beneficiaries store their produce in warehouse.\r\nIn Salem district, nearly two-fifths (38.33 per cent) of the beneficiaries store their products in storage godowns, two-third (33.33 per cent) store it in the farm itself, (19.17 per cent) store their produce in marketing shops or market place itself and only (9.17 per cent) of beneficiaries store their produce in warehouse.\r\nIn Krishnagiri district, nearly two-fifths (40.00 per cent) of the beneficiaries store their produce in storage godowns, nearly one-third (30.83 per cent) store their products on farm itself, (21.67 per cent) store their produce in marketing shops or market place itself and only (9.17 per cent) of beneficiaries store their produce in warehouse.\r\nIt could be revealed from the findings that most of the farmers stored their produce in storage godowns because of its easy availability and accessibility provided by the government in every district. \r\nPreferred time to sell products. From the Table 1, it can be found that more than three-fourth (76.67 per cent) of PKVY beneficiaries sold their products soon after harvest, (12.50 per cent) sold when they are in need of cash, 6.25 per cent sold when the price is attractive and 4.00 sell their products through pre-harvest contractors. \r\nIn salem district, it can be found that more than three-fourth (76.67 per cent) of PKVY beneficiaries sold their products soon after harvest, (13.33 per cent) sold when they are in need of cash, 5.83 per cent sold when the price is attractive and 4.17 sell their products through pre-harvest contractors.\r\nIn krishnagiri district, it can be found that more than three-fourth (76.67 per cent) of PKVY beneficiaries sold their products soon after harvest, (11.67 per cent) sold when they are in need of cash, 6.66 per cent sold when the price is attractive and 5.00 sell their products through pre-harvest contractors.\r\nThe study revealed that majority of the beneficiaries sold their products soon after harvest because of demand of the produce. Especially, for fruit products there are no cold storage units in proximity and so the beneficiaries were compelled to sell their produce immediately. \r\nPreferred place to sell products. It is evident from the Table 1, that two-third (62.50 per cent) of them sell their produce in nearby town, one-fourth (25.41 per cent) of the beneficiaries sell their produce in the village itself and a meager (12.09 per cent) sold their produce in distance town. Raahinipriya (2018) was in line with the result of the study. \r\nIn Salem district, nearly two-third (60.83 per cent) of the beneficiaries sell their produce in nearby town, one-fourth (26.67 per cent) of the beneficiaries sell their produce in the village itself and a meager (12.50 per cent) sell their produce in distance town.\r\nIn Krishnagiri district, nearly two-third (64.17 per cent) of the beneficiaries sell their produce in nearby town, one-fourth (24.17 per cent) of the beneficiaries sell their produce in village itself and a meager (11.66 per cent) used to sell their produce in distance town.\r\nMore than two-third of the beneficiaries sold their products in nearby towns because of market availability and good transportation facility. The PKVY scheme focuses more on domestic market so the beneficiaries preferred selling nearby.\r\nPreferred person to sell products. It could be inferred from the Table 1, that more than one-third (34.16 per cent) of the beneficiaries sold their produce to cooperative agent, (29.59 per cent) of the beneficiaries used to sold their products in whole sale market, (20.42 per cent) sold their products through commission agent, (5.84 per cent) and (5.41 per cent) sold through direct selling and primary merchant and remaining (4.58 per cent) sold their products in regulated market. \r\nIn Salem district, more than one-third (34.17 per cent) of the beneficiaries sold their produce to cooperative agent, (30.00 per cent) of the beneficiaries used to sold their products in whole sale market, (20.83 per cent) sold their products through commission agent, both direct selling and primary merchant fall under same category (5.83 per cent) and remaining (4.17 per cent) sold their products in regulated market. \r\nIn Krishnagiri district, more than one-third (34.17 per cent) of the beneficiaries sold their produce to cooperative agent, (29.17 per cent) of the beneficiaries used to sold their products in whole sale market, (20.00 per cent) sold their products through commission agent, both direct selling and primary merchant fall under same category (5.83 per cent) and remaining (5.00 per cent) sold their products in regulated market. \r\nThe result identified that more number of beneficiaries sold their produce to cooperative agent because of their easy accessibility and also they provide reasonable price for their produce. They also fetch better price in wholesale market.\r\nTransport of produce. Majority (83.34 per cent) of the beneficiaries used hired vehicles for sold their produce and a meager (11.25 per cent) used to sell their produce in own vehicle and only (5.41 per cent) used public transport for sell their market produce. \r\nIn Salem district, majority (85.00 per cent) of the beneficiaries used hired vehicles for sold their produce and a meager (10.83 per cent) used to sell their produce in own vehicle and only (4.17 per cent) used public transport for sell their market produce.\r\nIn Krishnagiri district, majority (81.67 per cent) of the beneficiaries used hired vehicles for transportation of their produce and a meager (11.67 per cent) used to transport their produce in own vehicle and only (6.66 per cent) used public transport for sell their market produce.\r\nMajority of the beneficiaries used hired vehicles for transportation of their produce to nearby town or distant town or villages. For local transportation they used two wheelers and to commute to distant town they used tractors. \r\nMarket distance. It was observed from the Table 1, more than half (55.42 per cent) of the beneficiaries sold their market produce in nearby area (up to 5 km), two-fifth (40.41 per cent) of beneficiaries select their market area above 5-10 km and only 4.17 per cent of beneficiaries selected their market area above 10-15 km. The findings was in line with the janani (2016). \r\nIn salem district, more than half (55.00 per cent) of the beneficiaries sold their market produce in nearby area (up to 5 km), two-fifth (41.67 per cent) of beneficiaries select their market area above 5-10 km and only 3.33 per cent of beneficiaries selected their market area above 10-15 km. \r\nIn krishnagiri district, more than half (55.83 per cent) of the beneficiaries sold their market produce in nearby area (up to 5 km), two-fifth (39.17 per cent) of beneficiaries select their market area above 5-10 km and only 5.00 per cent of beneficiaries selected their market area above 10-15 km. \r\nMore than half of the beneficiaries sold their produce within 5 km as they procure and sold their produce only in domestic market. \r\nTerms and conditions to sell produce. From the Table 1, it could be seen that more than three-fourth (77.08 per cent) of the beneficiaries sold their organic produce for ready cash payment followed by (13.34 per cent) used to settle the loan obtained for input purchase and the remaining meager (9.58 per cent) sell their products in credit basis. The finding was in conformity with the findings of Johnson (2009).\r\nIn salem district, three-fourth (76.67 per cent) of the beneficiaries sold their organic produce for ready cash payment followed by (6.66 per cent) used to settle the loan obtained for input purchase and the remaining (16.70 per cent) sell their products on credit basis. \r\nIn krishnagiri district, three-fourth (77.08 per cent) of the beneficiaries sold their organic produce for ready cash payment followed by (12.50 per cent) used to settle the loan obtained for input purchase and the remaining meager (10.00 per cent) sell their products on credit basis.\r\nRegarding selling of produce majority of the beneficiaries sold their products for ready cash. This is mainly because the beneficiaries were in immediate need of cash and most of them were not aware about other terms and conditions for selling of product. \r\nOpinion about existing market facilities. In salem district, half of the beneficiaries (50.83 per cent) said that insufficient market facilities for organic produce, less than one-third (30.17 per cent) quite sufficient and the rest of less than one-fourth (19.17 per cent) were had sufficient marketing facilities for organic produce.\r\nIn krishnagiri district, half of the beneficiaries (50.84 per cent) said that insufficient market facilities for organic produce, less than one-third (28.33 per cent) quite sufficient and the rest of less than one-fourth (20.83 per cent) were had sufficient marketing facilities for organic produce.\r\nIn our study area there was no specific availability of market place or brand for organic products. So it was difficult for organic farmers to sell their products in good price. So more than half of the farmers felt that they have insufficient market facilities. \r\nOpinion about prevailing market price. From the Table 1, it was confined that more than two-third (66.25 per cent) price for organic farming was medium level followed by (18.34 per cent) had low level of market price and the remaining less than one-sixth (15.41 per cent) had high market price for organic products.\r\nIn salem district, two-third (65.84 per cent) confined that price for organic farming is medium level followed by less than one-fourth (23.33 per cent) had low level of market price and the remaining a meager (10.83 per cent) had high market price for organic products.\r\nIn krishnagiri district, little more than two-third (66.67 per cent) of beneficiaries said that they had medium level of market price followed by (20.00 per cent) of beneficiaries had high level of market price and the remaining (13.33 per cent) had low level of prevailing market price. \r\nIn case of market price in organic farming farmers did not meet their expectations. This is mainly due to low customer satisfaction level. Many of the buyers won’t believe in the purity of the product so majority of farmers said they have minimum level of market price. \r\nOrganic market status before 5 years. Regarding organic market status, more than one-third (38.75 per cent) of the beneficiaries said that there was a decrease in organic market price before five years followed by more than one-third (32.50 per cent) of the beneficiaries had no changes in organic market price and the remaining more than one-fifth (28.75 per cent) of the beneficiaries had increase in prevailing organic market price. \r\nIn salem district, more than two-fifth (41.67 per cent) of the beneficiaries said that there was a decrease in organic market price before five years followed by more than one-third (35.00 per cent) of the beneficiaries had increase in organic market price and the remaining (23.33 per cent) of the beneficiaries had no change in prevailing organic market price. \r\nIn krishnagiri district, little less than one-third (35.83 per cent) of the beneficiaries said that there was decrease in organic market price before five years followed by more than one third (34.17 per cent) had increase in orgnic market price and the remaining (30.00 per cent) of the beneficiaries had no change in prevailing organic market price. \r\nBefore they enrolled in PKVY that is before five years nearly half of the beneficiaries experience low market price for their produce because of most of them have no knowledge about organic produce market price. \r\nAwareness of price trend. From the Table 1, it could be seen that more than two-fifth (45.16 per cent) of the beneficiaries aware of price trend through social media, followed by one-fourth (25.83 per cent) of the beneficiaries aware of price trend through neighbor farmers, nearly one-fifth (19.59 per cent) aware of price trend through nearby shops and a meager (10.42 per cent) were aware of price trend through officials. \r\nIn salem district, more than two-fifth (43.33 per cent) of the beneficiaries aware of price trend through social media, followed by one-fourth (25.00 per cent) of the beneficiaries aware of price trend through neighbor farmers, one-fifth (20.83 per cent) aware of price trend through nearby shops and a meager (10.84 per cent) were aware of price trend through officials. \r\nIn krishnagiri district, more than two-fifth (45.00 per cent) of the beneficiaries aware of price trend through social media, followed by more than one-fourth (26.67 per cent) of the beneficiaries aware of price trend through neighbor farmers, nearly one-fifth (18.33 per cent) aware of price trend through nearby shops and a meager (10.00 per cent) were aware of price trend through officials. \r\nNowadays social media like newspaper, magazines, youtube, facebook, instagram, whatsup etc., plays crucial role in distribution of agricultural commodities. In organic farming more number of farmers aware of price trend using social media because, rapid rise in use of smart phones. \r\n','M. Supriya and J. Venkata Pirabu (2022). A Study on Marketing Behaviour of Organic Farmers under Paramparagrat Krishi Vikas Yojana (PKVY). Biological Forum – An International Journal, 14(2): 955-960.'),(4985,'125','True Mangrove Mapping in Coastal Environs of Minnie Bay, South Andaman, India, using geo-spatial Approach','Apurba Kumar Das*, B. Meena, Dilip Kumar Jha, Sanjoy Gupta and N.V. Vinithkumar','165 True Mangrove Mapping in Coastal Environs of Minnie Bay, South Andaman, India, using geo-spatial Approach Apurba Kumar Das.pdf','',1,'Environmental research is essential for monitoring and managing the ecological status of the mangrove environment. Due to the difficulty of accessing and penetrating the mangrove area along the coast, a remote sensing technique can be used to analyse the mangrove. The present study was carried out to assess the true mangrove species in the coastal vicinity of Minnie Bay, South Andaman, for developing a spatial map in order to conserve the coastal resources. The result revealed the presence of 15 true mangrove species from an area of 4.81hectare of land and also illustrated the dominance of three species (91.4 %) of Avicennia marina, Rhizophora apiculata and Rhizophora mucronata. The study suggests the revival of the mangrove resources after the tsunami of 26th Dec 2004. Spatial map developed through ground truthing process will help in developing a proper mitigation and conservation management strategy to protect the mangrove are sources in the islands. ','GIS, GPS, True mangrove, Conservation, Andaman','Environmental research is essential for monitoring and managing the ecological status of the mangrove environment. Due to the difficulty of accessing and penetrating the mangrove area along the coast, a remote sensing technique can be used to analyse the mangrove. The present study was carried out to assess the true mangrove species in the coastal vicinity of Minnie Bay, South Andaman, for developing a spatial map in order to conserve the coastal resources. The result revealed the presence of 15 true mangrove species from an area of 4.81hectare of land and also illustrated the dominance of three species (91.4 %) of Avicennia marina, Rhizophora apiculata and Rhizophora mucronata. The study suggests the revival of the mangrove resources after the tsunami of 26th Dec 2004. Spatial map developed through ground truthing process will help in developing a proper mitigation and conservation management strategy to protect the mangrove are sources in the islands. ','INTRODUCTION\r\nMangroves are the coastal plants that survive in the relatively high range of water salinity and form an evergreen ecosystem in inter-tidal zones. Mangroves prefer to grow in river deltas, lagoons and estuarine complexes (Thom, 1984); also occur on colonized shorelines and islands in sheltered coastal areas with locally variable topography and hydrology (Lugo and Snedaker, 1974). In 2000 it wasestimated that the world’s total mangrove forest cover was 137,760 km2 distributed in 118 countries and territories (Giri et al., 2010). The largest extent of mangroves is found in Asia (42%) followed by Africa (20%), North and Central America (15%), Oceania (12%) and South America (11%) (Giri et al., 2010). Mangrove wetlands are dominant coastal ecosystems in tropical and subtropical regions throughout the world (Leeand Yeh, 2009). The knowledge and information of the exact floral species composition in any country or places is a basic and important pre-requisite in understanding all the aspects of structure and function of mangroves, as well as their bio-geographical affinities and their conservation and management (Jayatissa et al., 2002). After West Bengal (East coast), and Gujarat (West coast), Andaman and Nicobar Islands (A&N) are flourished with good mangrove ecosystem. Recently it was reported that about 38 true mangrove species belonging to 13 families and 19 genera are present in the A&N Islands (Ragavan et al., 2016). The mangroves population in many geographical areas is declining with time as a result of the destruction of mangrove forests and exposure to various anthropogenic stresses (Hamilton and Snedaker 1984). The continued decline of forest area is caused due to conversion to agriculture, aquaculture, tourism, urban development and overexploitation (Alongi, 2002; Giri et al., 2008). Mangroves species found primarily in the high intertidal and upstream zones, which often have specific freshwater requirements and patchy distributions, are the most threatened because they are often the first cleared for the development of aquaculture and agriculture (Polidoro et al., 2010). About 35% of mangroves were lost from 1980 to 2000 (MA, 2005). If the loss is continued in this rate after sometime important ecosystem goods and services (e.g. natural barrier, carbon sequestration, biodiversity) provided by mangrove forests will be diminished or lost (Duke et al., 2007). Major threats to mangrove of A&N Islands are due to natural disaster, human interference whereas the grazing of animal is limited. Due to tsunami like other areas of A&N Islands the mangroves of Minnie Bay were also severely affected and considerable damage occurred due to direct hit by tsunami after earth quake. The subsidence of entire South Andaman approximately by meters and continues submergence of stilt roots and pneumatophores, due to this mangroves degraded and new mangrove diversity evolved during recent years that is after more than a decade. This study was carried out to know the current scenario of true mangrove species richness and also to trace land-cover occupied by true mangrove species at Minnie Bay coast.\r\nMATERIALS AND METHODS\r\nStudy Area Description. Minnie Bay (MB) coast is falling in between lat11°38\' N and long 92°42\' E, which is located in the Port Blair Bay, South Andaman. The study site (Fig. 1) MB was selected which had well developed mangrove cover before tsunami however it degraded due to earthquake (Mw 9.3) and subsequently tsunami on 26th Dec 2004. It is tsunami affected area of South Andaman zone surrounded by human settlements and plantation. The coast is deep inside the land and form a shape like U which runs for a 3.6 km with sandy to muddy coastline. The entire cost is occupied with dense to scattered mangrove patches which form a unique ecosystem.\r\nThe mangrove vegetation cover was studied during tidal phase using quadrate method (Sutherland, 1996; Archaux et al., 2007) to estimate the species composition and density. A quadrate (10×10 m) by tape measure was marked evenly along the entire coast. In each quadrates all species were identified, counted and each individuals was tagged with GPS (Garmin eTrex Vista H, ±3 m). Seedlings were didn’t consider for mapping. When a tree split beneath breast height (1.3 m), each branch was recorded as a separate stem (http://www.monumentaltrees.com). The species were identified using standard identification keys (Kathiresan and Bingham, 2001; Rajendran and Baskara 2004).\r\nData Analysis. We adapted a diverse approach for the study of mangrove forest cover, global positioning system (GPS) incorporated with geographic information system (GIS). Usually for mapping of mangroves high-resolution satellite image is used, to show the mangrove cover of the entire areas. Remote sensing has played an important and effective function in the assessment and monitoring of mangrove forest cover dynamics (Giri et al., 2007). Generally this type of areal estimation does not provide detailed information about the type of species composition and also quality of the mangrove forests. Decline in mangrove forests due to natural disaster or anthropogenic activities are one of the most serious problems of the world\'s coastal ecosystems. To overcome this problem we should have detailed mangrove maps at the species level for monitoring of mangrove ecosystems and their diversity. To know the proper species composition and distribution of a particular area there is a need to do some extensive field survey from which the ground-truth measurement will be helpful to validate the satellite image derived data.\r\nTo create a geo-spatial map of true mangrove species, all mangrove strands coordinates were marked with GPS, later the data was processed in ArcGIS (version-10.4.1). Unique colour code was adopted to represent each species and its distribution. The high tide line was drawn using the Survey of India (UTM-87a10-5-a14-2) toposheets on 1:25,000 scales. Density and abundance were analyzed using Microsoft Excel 2007 package. Apart from this, univariate measures [Shannon-Wiener diversity index (H´), Margalef’s species richness (d) and Pielou’s evenness (J´), Simpson dominance (D)] were also analysed using Microsoft Excel 2007. Vegetation analysis was restricted to true mangroves only, mangrove associates and specialised groups were not included in this survey because they did not meet the criteria of true mangrove species as specified by Tomlinson (1986).\r\nRESULTS AND DISCUSSION\r\nRemote sensing image analysis is a critical but difficult endeavour; however, digital image classification provides a variety of methodologies for image analysis that may be combined to extract and evaluate numerous spectral, spatial, and textural properties (Khushbu et al., 2021). Based on the assessment of true mangrove study at Minnie Bay coast, a total of 4.81 hectare mangrove cover was recorded, excluding of mudflat area as depicted in Fig. 2 with grid view. Yuvaraj et al. (2014) estimated the mangrove cover at Minnie Bay was 7.13 hectare excluding of mudflat area through Remote Sensing and GIS techniques, in which 2.32 hectare is highas compare to our ground truthing data. This result shows field data required to validate the satellite image derived data. The true mangrove diversity at the study site is 15 species, belonging to 13 genera and 11 families. The species occur in each family were, Acanthaceae (1), Arecaceae (1), Avicenniaceae (1), Bignoniaceae (1), Euphorbiaceae (1), Malvaceae (1), Meliaceae (1), Pteridaceae (1), Rhizophoraceae (5), Rubiaceae (1) and Sonneratiaceae (1).The total density of mangrove strand at Minnie Bay was found 0.087 Nos./m2. Rhizophora apiculata (43.02 %) is dominated species followed by Avicennia marina (26.31 %), Rhizophora mucronata (22.07 %), thus this three species occurrence rate contribution is 91.4 % and rest 12 others mangrove species made up of 8.60 %. The least distributed mangrove species recorded at Minnie Bay during study period are Acrostichum aureum (0.02 %) followed by Scyphiphora hydrophyllacea (0.07 %), Rhizophora stylosa (0.09%). The results of mangrove density and relative abundance are presented in Table 1.Overall distribution of true mangrove species at MB is presented in Fig. 3 with unique colour code in scale range of 1:4494. Univariate diversity indices were applied to study the species abundance in this study sites and the results are presented at Table 2. Margalef’s species richness was found (d=15), Shannon Wiener’s diversity index was (H´=1.444). Due to stable and enclosed bay environment (J´=0.533) morenumber of species diversity was observed which showed that the individuals in the community are distributed more equitably. From the site out of 15 species recorded, percentage cover of Rhizophora apiculata, Avicennia marina and Rhizophora mucronata was 91.4 %, thus the Simpson’s dominance (D) shows (0.304).\r\nTo get apparent view of the distribution of each species Fig. 4 illustrate the distribution of three dominant species Avicennia marina (a), Rhizophora apiculata (b), Rhizophora mucronata (c)and followed by other 12 true mangrove species (d). The thematic map clearly shows that population of Avicennia marina is partly dominant in east and west coast and sparsely distributed at southern side with density of 0.023 m2, while Rhizophora apiculata is dominant all over the coast with highest density of 0.037 m2, whereas Rhizophora mucronata is partly dominant in west coast and sparsely distributed in east and south coast with density of 0.019 m2. In tail end of west coast where high tide line went deep inside the land (Fig. 3 in scale range of 1:1500) species distribution is high it might be due to deep enclose area with less tidal action and rich availability of organic matter. Other 12 species of mangrove sparsely distributed all over the coast. During tsunami in 2004, the mangrove stands of Minnie Bay area were inundated by tidal waves of about 3 m height due to this mangrove stands were severely affected, about 40% of Rhizophora sp. was affected and most of them died due to continuous inundation (Roy and Krishnan, 2005). Habitat loss may occur in some species with continuous inundation, afterward new habitat will form and it will be conducive for new mangrove propagules (Das et al., 2014). There is little known about the effects of either widespread or localized mangrove area loss on individual mangrove species or populations due to a lack of information about the distribution of individual species (Polidoro et al., 2010). To overcome such problem this type of mapping will definitely serve as a baseline data for the monitoring of mangrove species and its population.','Apurba Kumar Das, B. Meena, Dilip Kumar Jha, Sanjoy Gupta and N.V. Vinithkumar (2022). True Mangrove Mapping in Coastal Environs of Minnie Bay, South Andaman, India, using geo-spatial Approach. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 14(2): 961-966.'),(4986,'125','Pathogenicity and endophytic activity of white muscadine fungus, Beauveria bassiana (Balsamo) Vuillemin against Fall armyworm, Spodoptera frugiperda (J. E. Smith) in maize, Zea mays L.','G. Kiruthiga*, S. Jeyarani, N. Sathiah, U, Sivakumar, D. Uma and M. Murugan','166 Pathogenicity and endophytic activity of white muscadine fungus, Beauveria bassiana _Balsamo_ Vuillemin against Fall armyworm, Spodoptera frugiperda _J. E. Smith_ in maize, Zea mays L. G. Kiruthiga.pdf','',1,'Fall armyworm, Spodoptera frugiperda (J.E. Smith) has gained the major pest status in maize throughout the country. Management of Fall armyworm became difficult because of its cryptic habitat inside maize whorls and polyphagous nature. Entomopathogenic fungus (EPF), Beauveria bassiana has immense potential as bioagents owing to their broad host range, and pathogenicity under laboratory conditions. Present study involves the exploitation of EPF for effective management of fall armyworm which includes identification of virulent strain of EPF, testing the pathogenicity under lab conditions. The isolates collected from different locations during survey are identified morphologically as Beauveria bassiana and were characterized by PCR based DNA sequencing analysis. The result showed that the five isolates showed slight variations in their growth pattern but no differences were observed at morphologically level. PCR based DNA sequencing proved that all isolates, irrespective of insect hosts and locations were found to be identified as B. bassiana at molecular level. The B. bassiana isolates were tested for pathogenicity and endophytic activity against Fall armyworm under laboratory conditions. The results showed that Bb TM isolate was capable of causing highest mortality of 66.67, 60.00 and 53.33 per cent against first, second and third instar with LC50 values of 2.51 × 105, 2.05 × 106 and 4.56 × 107 respectively. None of these B. bassiana isolates proved to be endophytic in maize plants.','Beauveria bassiana, endophyte, Spodoptera frugiperda, bioassay, LC50','The current study identified B. bassiana isolate for the management of Fall armyworm, S. frugiperda. Future studies should be made on cost-effective mass production, formulation, shelf-life studies and safety of fungus to nontarget organisms under laboratory and field conditions for the successful biological control of Fall armyworm.','INTRODUCTION\r\nMaize (Zea mays L.) is the third most important cereal crop in India after rice and wheat which accounts for around 10 per cent of total food grain production in the country. The Fall Armyworm (FAW), Spodoptera frugiperda (J. E. Smith) of the family Noctuidae, Lepidoptera is a serious yield constraint in this crop (Kalleshwaraswamy et al., 2018). The fall army worm feeds on all the growth stages of maize starting from seedling emergence to cob development (Sisay et al., 2019). Managing fall armyworm has been a great challenge due to their high fecundity and large migratory range (Westbrook et al., 2016). Efforts to manage through indiscriminate use of insecticides may result in development of resistance besides being harmful to environment and natural enemies. Entomopathogens proved as an effective strategy in many situations of severe pest outbreak and reports on the management of FAW using entomopathogens have been reported (Lezama-Gutierrez et al., 2001 and Guo et al., 2020). The white muscardine fungus, Beauveria bassiana (Balsamo) Vuillemin is the most studied entomopathogenic fungi widely applied against agricultural insect pests due to broader host range (Ownley et al., 2004; McGuire and Northfield, 2020). In the present investigation, the EPF were exploited during survey and their pathogenicity and endophytic activity were evaluated against S. frugiperda in maize under controlled laboratory conditions. \r\nMATERIALS AND METHODS\r\nSurvey for collection of entomopathogenic fungi. Extensive survey was carried out in different regions of Tamil Nadu to collect and isolate the naturally occurring entomopathogens on insects from January 2020 to December 2021. The details of survey location and collected insect cadavers are described in Table 1.\r\nIsolation of fungal isolates. For isolation of fungi, mycosed samples were surface sterilized using 70 per cent ethanol (30 seconds) followed by 1.5 per cent sodium hypochlorite (60 seconds) and then thoroughly washed with sterilized distilled water several times (Goettel and Inglis, 1997). The excess water was removed by keeping the cadaver in sterilized Whatman filter paper No. 1. The cadavers were then cut into small pieces with the help of sterile blade and the bits were aseptically transferred with sterilized inoculation needle on to 90 mm sterilized petri plate containing Potato Dextrose Agar (PDA) with streptomycin sulphate (0.5g/ l) and incubated at 25±2°C. The stock cultures were sub-cultured on PDA medium at 15 days interval and the virulence was revived by passing through the host after every 5 to 6 times of subculturing.\r\nMorphological identification of fungal isolates. Fungal pathogens grown on PDA plates for about 15 days were used for the morphological identification. Phase contrast microscopy was used to examine morphological characteristics such as colony colour, mycelial character, spore size and structure. The growth parameters like radial growth, spore count and days taken to cover up the full plate were also observed.\r\nMolecular characterization. Morphological identified fungus was further confirmed by molecular studies. For molecular characterization, CTAB method described by Dhar et al. (2019) was followed. The fungal isolates were grown in 100 ml Potato dextrose broth and incubated for seven days. The mycelial mat was then removed carefully and wash three times with sterile \r\ndistilled water to remove media constituents. Fresh mycelial mass (100 mg) of each isolate was ground separately in liquid nitrogen using pestle and mortar, followed by addition of 5 to 6 ml cetyl trimethyl ammonium bromide (CTAB) extraction buffer (10 mM tris-base (pH 8.0), 20 mM ethylene diamine tetra acetic acid (EDTA) (pH 8.0), 1.4 M NaCl, CTAB (2%), mercapto ethanol (0.1%)) and were incubated in dry water bath at 65°C for 30 minutes. The solution was extracted with 5 ml of chloroform: iso amyl alcohol (24:1) and centrifuged at 10000 rpm for 10 minutes. After centrifugation, the supernatant was mixed with equal volume of ice-cold isopropanol for DNA precipitation. The precipitated DNA was washed with 70 per cent ethanol by centrifuging the contents at 12000 rpm for 5 minutes. Further, the obtained DNA pellets were air dried for 30 minutes and suspended in 100 µl TE (10 mM Tris, 1mM EDTA, pH 8.0) buffer. The DNA concentration was estimated using a Nano drop Spectrophotometer (Thermo Scientific Company, USA) as per the procedure by Desjardins and Conklin (2010).\r\nPCR amplification of ITS1-5.8S-ITS2 and 18S genes of fungal isolates was performed with universal primers (Wu et al., 2001). ITS1 (5’-TCCGTAGGTGAACCTGCGG-3’) as forward primer, ITS4 (5’-TCCTCCGCTTATTGATATGC-3’) as reverse primer were used. PCR amplifications were performed on gradient Master cycler (Eppendorf, Germany) with a total volume of 50 µl which included 5 µl 10X Taq-DNA polymerase reaction buffer, 1 µl (1 mM) dNTPs, 1 µl (20 pmol) each of the opposing amplification primers, 0.5 µl (5 u/ µl) Taq-DNA polymerase, and 50 ng genomic DNA and sterile distilled water. The PCR program involved 40 cycles of initial denaturation at 94°C for 3 min; followed by 35 cycles of 94°C for 1 min, 56°C for 30 sec, 72°C for 1 min and final extension at 72°C for 10 min. Successful PCR amplifications were determined by 1.5 per cent agarose gel, viewed under UV light and documented in an Alpha Imager. The PCR products were then Sanger sequenced by Eurofins Genomics (Bangalore, India). The nucleotide sequence obtained was aligned for its similarity using the BLAST software \r\nPhylogenetic analysis. The native isolates obtained in the present investigation was analysed with 15 other isolates of B. bassiana from GenBank database. An isolate of Metarhizium anisopliae were considered as outgroup for better phylogenetic reconstructions. The indigenous isolates were sequenced for the partial region of internal transcribed sequence and the rest of the sequences were obtained from GenBank database entries (http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/Genbank/ index.html). The sequences were initially aligned using the multiple alignment program MEGA ver. 7 and the flanking regions that were not a part of significant multiple alignment were trimmed off. The statistical procedure of neighbour joining (NJ) of the program MEGA ver. 7 was used and distances for neighbour joining tree were calculated under the Kimura 2-parameter model.\r\nPathogenicity test. Five isolates collected during the survey and two isolates from Insect pathology lab, Department of Agricultural Entomology, TNAU were evaluated for their pathogenicity against Fall Armyworm. Fungal spore suspension of the seven isolates were prepared by scrapping spores from sporulated plates and were suspended in 10 mL sterile distilled water containing 0.05 per cent Tween 80®. The spore count in the liquid suspension was assessed using improved Neubauer haemocytometer. Larvae were treated with different concentration of B. bassiana isolates containing 0.05 per cent Tween 80® using hand atomizer (Sánchez-Peña et al., 2007). Larvae treated with 0.05 per cent Tween 80® served as untreated control. Treated larvae were individually allowed to feed on artificial diet in plastic containers. The experiment was performed in completely randomized design with seven treatments replicated three times. Thirty number of different instars (first, second and third) were released for each treatment and incubated at room temperature of 25±2°C. Percentage mortality was corrected (Abbott, 1925) and statistically analyzed after necessary transformation. The list of isolates used in the study are presented in Table 2.\r\nEndophytic study using seed treatment method. The endophytic activity of fungus on maize was done by following the slight modification in procedure as described by Ramos et al. (2020); Russo et al. (2021). The maize seeds were surface sterilized with 2 per cent sodium hypochlorite (one minute) followed by rinsing in 70 per cent ethanol (1 minute) and several washes with sterile distilled water. The surface-sterilized seeds were soaked in 10 ml fungal suspension of each isolate for 24 hours. Seeds were then dried on sterile filter paper under aseptic conditions for 30 minutes before being placing them in sterile germination paper using roll paper towel method. For control, the seeds were soaked in sterile water with 0.01% Tween 80. When the maize plants reached two leaves unfolded stage, different parts of maize plants including roots, stems, and leaves were collected and surface sterilized with 1.5 per cent sodium hypochlorite (3 minutes), 70 per \r\ncent ethanol (2 minutes) and sterile distilled water for three times (one minute). The effectiveness of sterilisation was tested by inoculating PDA medium with 100 µl of the last rinse water.\r\nTo avoid the death of endophyte tissue, damaged plants from the sterilising procedure were eliminated. Plants were then dried in sterile paper towels and chopped into small (1 cm2) pieces aseptically in a laminar flow hood. Afterwards, the plant pieces were inoculated on PDA culture media in Petri plates (9 cm diameter) with streptomycin sulphate (250 mg/l) and incubated for 3 days. To obtain colonies free of contamination, a single spore from each EPF was harvested and re-inoculated on PDA growth medium.\r\n\r\nRESULTS AND DISCUSSION\r\nIn the present investigation, B. bassiana was isolated from Fall armyworm from maize fields in Tamil Nadu. Another study conducted by Ramanujam et al. (2021) in Karnataka confirmed the natural occurrence of Beauveria species in Spodoptera frugiperda in the maize fields which is similar to the findings of the current investigation. The fungal pathogens isolated from various insect cadavers were observed under phase contrast microscope for studying the morphological characters of the colonies. The observations made on the colony characters include growth pattern, colony colour, surface texture, mycelial structure, conidia shape and size (Table 3).\r\nThe results revealed that all the five isolates have hyaline and septate mycelium with whitish or yellowish white colony which are the characters of the B. bassiana. The isolates viz., Bb1, Bb2, Bb3. Bb5, Bb TM and Bb BR had smooth and powdery surface whereas, the isolate Bb4 showed smooth cottony appearance. The surface texture of isolates is smooth, powdery or cottony with globose conidia and their size ranges from 1.99-2.46 µm. B. bassiana isolates were morphologically confirmed by the presence of white or yellowish white colony, globose or sub-globose conidia (Talaei-Hassanloui et al., 2006 and Fernandes et al., 2006). These characters confirmed that these indigenous isolates used in the present study were B. bassiana. In addition, as shown in Table 4, observations were also taken on growth factors such as radial growth, sporulation, and the number of days to cover the petri plate. After 15 days of incubation, the radial \r\ngrowth of B. bassiana isolates ranged from 5.53 to 8.61 cm, with the isolates Bb TM (8.61 cm) and Bb3 (8.56 cm) showing significantly greater growth rates. Bb1 had the highest spore count of 12.34 × 108 spores mL-1, followed by Bb3, which had the spore count of 11.68 × 108 spores mL-1. In isolates, Bb4 (5.53 × 108 spores mL-1) and Bb5 (5.85 × 108 spores mL-1), the lowest spore count was detected. The time took to cover the entire petri plate ranged from 14 to 17 days. The present study also conclude that isolate Bb TM had greater growth and spore production ability and was efficient in controlling Fall armyworm under laboratory conditions. Similarly, the studies made by Zhang et al. (2011) have shown that morphological characteristics of B. bassiana such as growth rate, colony color, texture and spore production are correlated with virulence against target pest.\r\nMorphological characters are mostly used for identification at genus level but species level identification is necessary for further advanced study. The 18S rRNA genes of isolates were amplified using universal primers viz., ITS1 and ITS4. The nucleotide sequences of the five isolates were deposited in the Gen Bank and allotted with the accession numbers (Table 2). The homology search against the GenBank data base revealed 96.92 to 99.60 per cent similarity to the ITS region of B. bassiana as in Table 5. The isolates were thus designated as B. bassiana with high similarity and could not be distinguished. Dhar et al., (2019) observed the amplification of ITS region of B. bassiana isolates at 524 bp which is in line with the findings of the current study as the amplification of ITS region was around 550 bp. The phylogenetic tree was obtained by the sequence analysis of ITS region, of all the study isolates and the sequences of 5 other species obtained Beauveria from NCBI, GenBank. Phylogenetic tree based on the ITS sequences clustered into two groups. The study isolates Bb4 (ON202897) and Bb5 (ON202916) were grouped together in a cluster. Beauveria bassiana isolates Bb2 (MZ749648), Bb1 (MZ853723) and Bb3 (MZ749646) were grouped as three separate clusters along with other reference sequences retrieved from GenBank as in Fig. 1. \r\nAmong the seven isolates tested, the results revealed that Bb TM isolate (MH590235) was capable of causing higher mortality against S. frugiperda under laboratory conditions. Larval mortality was dose dependant and percent mortality increased with concentration and time of treatment. At nine days after treatment, mortality ranged from 20.00 to 66.67 per cent, 13.33 to 60.00 per cent, 10.00 to 53.33 per cent for first, second and third instar respectively as in Fig. 2. Highest mortality of 66.67 per cent was recorded for first instar at 108 conidia/ ml after nine days after treatment. Concentration mortality responses of first, second and third instar to Bb TM isolate (MH590235) showed that LC50 values of 2.51 × 105, 2.05 × 106, 4.56 × 107 conidia/ml with a fiducial limit of 103 – 107, 104 – 107 and 106 – 108 conidia/ml. Carneiro et al. (2008) isolated 24 isolates of Beauveria spp from mycosed cadavers in maize ecosystem and found that B. bassiana isolates were capable of causing 63.0 to 100 per cent mortality in Fall Armyworm which is in accordance with the present study as the isolate MH590235 (Bb TM) caused a maximum mortality of 66.67 per cent in laboratory conditions. Also, Rajula et al. (2021) proved that six isolates of B. bassiana were effective in controlling Fall armyworm under laboratory conditions with mortality ranging from 55 to 91.67 per cent. None of the B. bassiana isolates showed endophytic activity in maize plants in present study. In contrast to present findings, Ramirez-Rodriguez and Sanchez-Pena (2016) recovered endophytic B. bassiana from 65.3 per cent of fungus treated maize seeds.','G. Kiruthiga, S. Jeyarani, N. Sathiah, U, Sivakumar, D. Uma and M. Murugan (2022). Pathogenicity and endophytic activity of white muscadine fungus, Beauveria bassiana (Balsamo) Vuillemin against Fall armyworm, Spodoptera frugiperda (J. E. Smith) in maize, Zea mays L.. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 14(2): 967-973.'),(4987,'125','An Overview of Fusarium Wilt of Lentil Status in different Districts of West Bengal, India','Tanusree Das, Trina Sandham, Yashi Umbrey, Sunita Mahapatra* and Srikanta Das','167 An Overview of Fusarium Wilt of Lentil Status in different Districts of West Bengal, India Sunita Mahapatra.pdf','',1,'The yield potential of lentil remains low in India even under well managed production due to several biotic and abiotic stresses. Fusarium wilt of lentil caused by Fusarium oxysporum f.sp. lentis is one of the important biotic stress to the crop with severe reduction or complete reduction in yield. The disease occurs in fields in patches and originates either at early (seedling) crop stage or at reproductive (adult plant) stage. West Bengal is one of the major producers of lentil in India and very little amount of work on survey of lentil wilt disease in West Bengal has been conducted. In order to identify the disease status, hierarchical sampling strategy was conducted in two consecutive rabi seasons (2016 and 2017) in West Bengal in different farmers’ field as well as experimental fields covering five major lentil growing districts viz. Hoogly, Nadia, Birbhum, Bankura and Murshidabad. Percent disease incidence was calculated and the result revealed that during Rabi 2017, the incidence of Fusarium wilt of lentil was varied from 17.60% to 28.13%and during 2018, the disease incidence was in range of 16.38% to 25.39% according to location. The mean data of both the years revealed that the maximum diseases severity (PDI) was recorded 26.71% from C Block instructional field, BCKV, Nadia and the minimum PDI was recorded from farmers’ field at Chanditala, Hoogly (16.99%). In other districts the diseases severity was ranges from 19.91% to 20.05%. ','Lentil, Fusarium wilt, Fusarium oxysporum f.sp. lentis, survey','The Fusarium isolates from different geographical locations of West Bengal lentil field showed differences in their disease-causing capacity. Among the all isolates of Fusarium, W10 considered as most virulent as the mean data showed it caused highest disease incidence i.e., 26.71% and the lowest percent of disease incidence was showed by the isolate W1(16.99%). ','INTRODUCTION \r\nPulses are major source of protein, high fibre content and provide ample quantity of vitamins and minerals. Realizing its importance for human health, the United Nation declared 2016 as International Year of Pulses. Lentils are the second important group of crops after chick pea in India. Lentil has a protein concentration estimated at 24%. The crop is currently produced on 5.8 million ha worldwide with production of 6.2 million metric ton (FAOSTAT, 2018). The inclusion of Lentil in various cropping systems benefits the companion crop or succeeding crop by improving the physical and chemical properties of soil was well documented by Das et al., (2017); Mondal et al., (2020; 2021) concluded that the carryover of N from grain legumes for succeeding crops (e.g., sorghum, pearl millet, maize, castor) in dry-lands and marginal and sub-marginal lands ranged from 30-120 kg ha-1. In comparison to other grain legumes (i.e., common pea, chickpea), lentils are likely to have positive N balances (Walley et al., 2007). In a publication by Suryapani et al., (2013) estimated of the total amount of N fixed by lentil range from 0 to 192 kg ha-1 with an average value of about 80 kg ha-1 in shoots and roots. \r\nLow yield of lentil is primarily attributed to its susceptibility to several fungal, bacterial and viral diseases (Plaxton, 2004). About 67 fungi, 22 viruses, 3 bacteria and 80 nematodes have been reported on lentil (Brouwer et al., 1995) but only few of these are considered as economically important diseases. Among the economically important diseases Wilt (Fusarium oxysporum), Alternaria blight (Alternaria alternata), Anthracnose (Colletotrichum lindemuthianum), Aschochyta blight (aschochyta fabae f.sp. lentis), Rust (Uromyces fabae) and Root rot (Rhizoctonia solani) are the major andwidespread affecting its production and these biotic stresses have been reported to reduce the productivity of lentil by 20-25% (Jiskani et al., 2021). Fusarium wilt (Fusarium oxysporum f.sp. lentis) is one of most devastating disease of lentil which causes severe damage to leaves, stems, roots and pods and eventually reduces the yield (Pouralibaba et al., 2016). Fusarium disease occurs all over the world. This is persistent in the soil and is also related to seeds (Jiskani et al., 2021). All the growth stages get severely affected by the pathogen but maximum infection occurs at flowering and pod stages that any other vegetative growth stage. \r\nUnder field conditions, typical wilt symptoms can be noticed after two to three weeks of sowing if the variety is susceptible to the pathogen (Taylor et al., 2007). Yield losses depends upon different stages, 100% wilt can occur if the pathogen attacks at seedling and pre-pod stages, whereas about 60-70% can be notice when it occurs at flowering and podding stages (Garkoti et al., 2014). Kumar et al., (2013) reported that Fusarium wilt is the most devastating of all lentil diseases worldwide that can cause extensive yield losses reaching up to 100% in prolonged favourable environments. It is considered as the most damaging soil-borne disease of lentil and is a major lentil production-limiting agent worldwide. Even though lentil is growing widely in West Bengal but there is less report the involvement of wilt pathogens and has never been investigated uniformly covering different districts. A comprehensive survey of lentil diseases in 5 different districts of West Bengal, India was conducted in 2016-17, 2017-18 with the objectives to find out the occurrence and distribution of Fusarium wilt in lentil and to find out the status of the disease.\r\nMETHODS \r\nAreas Surveyed. The survey on the incidence of Fusarium wilt of lentil was conducted between October and December 2017-18 and 2018-19 at different districts of West Bengal during the rabi season of 2016-17 and 2017-18 (Fig. 2). To conduct the survey, a total 5 districts of West Bengal viz. Hoogly, Nadia, Birbhum, Bankura and Murshidabad district were selected viz. Chanditala farmer’s field, Balagarh farmer’s field, C Block BCKV instructional field, AB Block BCKV instructional field, Rampurhat farmer’s field, Bolpur farmer’s field, Bishnupur farmer’s field and Berhampore farmer’s field were undertaken for the study (Fig. 1). In each location, four fields of more or less uniform size were selected at random. In each field, 20 plants were selected randomly. The observations were taken periodically at 30, 45 and 60 days after sowing. The incidence of Fusarium wilt of lentil field was assessed by recording the number of plants showing wilt disease symptoms such as root rotting, yellowing of leaves, wilting of plants /m2 of a randomly selected area. Per cent disease incidence was calculated by using the following formula,\r\n Incidence %= ( Diseased plants)/(Total no.of plants) × 100\r\nData Collection. A Global positioning system (GPS) based survey sheet was prepared to collect information on disease incidence (Table 1).\r\nRESULT\r\nOccurrence and natural incidence on Fusarium wilt disease of lentil. It was observed that lentil wilt disease was caused by Fusarium oxysporum f. sp. Lentis and according to Pouralibaba et al., (2016), typical seedling wilt is characterized by sudden drooping, followed by drying of leaves and seedling death. Adult wilt symptoms appear from flowering to late pod-filling stage and are characterized by sudden drooping of top leaflets of the affected plant, leaflet closure without premature shedding, dull green foliage followed by wilting of the whole plant or individual branches. Wilt symptoms in the field also includes wilting of older leaves, stunting of plants, shrinking, and curling of leaves from the lower part of the plants that progressively move up to the stems of the infected plant and the plant eventually dies.\r\n Natural disease incidence and severity assessment showed that during Rabi 2017, the incidence of Fusarium wilt of lentil was varied from 17.60% to 28.13% according to location of different area. The maximum percentage of disease incidence (PDI) of Fusarium wilt, 28.13% was recorded from Berhampore farmers’ field of Murshidabad followed by C Block instructional field, BCKV, Nadia (28.04%), farmer’s field at Rampurhat, Birbhum (24.66%) and instructional farm AB-block field of Kalyani at BCKV, Nadia (24.09%), Shekhampur, Birbhum (22.39 %) and Bishnupur farmers field of Bankura (19.42%). The minimum PDI was recorded from farmers’ field at Chanditala of Hoogly (17.60%) followed by farmers filed at Bolpur of Birbhum (17.67%), farmer’s field at Balagarh of Hoogly (18.37%) (Table 1).\r\nDuring Rabi 2018, the incidence of Fusarium wilt of lentil varied from 16.38% to 25.39% according to location. The maximum percentage of disease incidence (PDI) of Fusarium wilt, 25.39% was recorded from C Block instructional field, BCKV, Nadia followed by Berhampore farmers’ field at Murshidabad (22.28%), farmer’s field at Rampurhat, Birbhum (22.02%), farmer’s field at Balagarh of Hoogly (21.46%), Bishnupur farmers field of Bankura (20.69%), instructional farm AB-block Kalyani farmer’s field at BCKV (20.52%). The minimum PDI was recorded from farmer’s field at Chanditala of Hoogly (16.38%) followed by Berhampore farmers’ field of Murshidabad (19.73%), farmer’s field at Bolpur of Birbhum (19.97%) (Fig. 3).\r\nThe mean data (Table 1) of both the years revealed that the maximum PDI was recorded 26.71% from C Block instructional field, BCKV, Nadia followed by Berhampore farmers’ field at Murshidabad (25.20%) and farmer’s field at Rampurhat, Birbhum (23.34%) and the minimum PDI was recorded from farmers’ field at Chanditala, Hoogly (16.99%). The variation in percent disease incidence from location to location may be attributed to the weather factors, availability of pathogen inoculum in field which affected the growth and development of the disease. During the survey of the fields, it was also observed that most of the fields were having sole crop lentil which may lead to the increase of the pathogen population and enhanced the disease. Fusarium wilt of lentil cause by Fusarium sp.was prevalent in all the places surveyed.\r\nThe data on survey revealed that Fusarium wilt incidence varied from location to location because of varied agro-climatologically situations, cropping pattern, varieties grown and cultural practices and doses of inoculums present.\r\nDISCUSSION\r\nThis study is a comprehensive examination of the relative importance of Fusarium wilt in different parts of West Bengal. Based on survey results, wilt incidence was found to be a relatively major disease of lentil in many districts. Widespread distribution of Fusarium wilt in all lentil cultivars was observed in all 5 states irrespective of cultivars grown by the farmers and it is a matter of concern. During the survey of the fields, it was also observed that most of the fields were having sole crop lentil which may lead to the increase of the pathogen population and enhanced the disease. Rangaswamy et al. (2016) reported that Fusarium sp. is one of the most diverse fungi in the world under different soil and climate conditions. Pathogenic variation is a common phenomenon of Fusarium sp. Hiremani and Dubey (2018) reported that wilt incidence was highly variable ranging from 6.7% to 92.9% in 89 genotypes evaluated against Fol isolate (FLS75) during 2012-2013. Drooping, yellowing and drying of the leaves were observed in young seedlings. Drying of the branches and complete wilting of the plant was also observed. Infected plants remained weak and did not produce flowers. Rafique et al. (2015) conducted wilt surveys in seven districts. The average incidence rate of disease in Punjab was 100%, with an average incidence of 25.7%, including those of Chakwal, Jhelum, Gujrat, Sialkot, Layyah, Bhakkar, and Khushab. Altaf et al. (2014) conducted survey of 28 locations in 9 regions of Pakistan during the 2012-13 crop season, with a disease prevalence of lentil wilt 100% in the 21 regions. In a report by Meena et al. (2017) showed that the genotypes L 9-12, L 4147, L 4730, LL 1316, Sehore 74-3, IPL 81, IPL 316, IPL 329, IPL 330, IPL 331, PL 6-9, PL 165, KLS 14-1, KLS 13-3, KLS 218, RLG 192, RL3-5, KLB14-12, RKL1003-21C, RKL12-11E-119, RVL11-6, RVL13-5, RVL13-7, VL148, VL149, VL525, DKL137, SLC101 expressed moderate to very high susceptibility reaction (>50%) against the fusarium wilt. Chaudhary (2009) investigated the area of the Bundelkhand region of Uttar Pradesh and found that the mortality rate of lentil plants caused by various soil-borne pathogens was in the middle of 19.95-33.30%. The mortality rate in 2006-07 (24.68-33.30%) was higher than that in 2005-2006 (19.95-25.69%). Fusarium wilt of Lentil was most significant and widespread in all examined areas. The proportion of plant death was 49.76-59.17%. The incidence rate was 5-18% in 2005-06 and 7-23% in 2006-07. In 2005-06, the incidence rate of the largest wilt disease in the Mahsi area was 13-18%, and 2006-07 was 9-23% (Srivastava et al., 2008). According to Sehgal et al., 2017, The yield of lentil remains low (1.5 tons ha-1) in India and still relatively low compared to its yielding potential (3.6 tons ha 1) under well managed production due to biotic and abiotic stresses. The significant information about disease incidence is necessary for successful surveying. Well-established per cent disease incidence formula is useful for field screening and to calculate the disease severity. The identified wilt affected areas in West Bengal would be expressed as less, moderate to high susceptibility reaction against the fusarium wilt and can be used through differential display expression analysis in future research programs. \r\n','Tanusree Das, Trina Sandham, Yashi Umbrey, Sunita Mahapatra and Srikanta Das (2022). An Overview of Fusarium Wilt of Lentil Status in different Districts of West Bengal, India. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 14(2): 974-978.'),(4988,'125','Comprehensive Study of Selection Parameters in Oat Genotypes for Fodder and Grain Yield','Raj Kumar, R.P. Vyas, H.C. Singh, Smriti Varghese, Gaurav Mishra, Vivek Kumar* and Anjali','168 Comprehensive Study of Selection Parameters in Oat Genotypes for Fodder and Grain Yield Raj Kumar.pdf','',1,'The correlation and path coefficient analysis is most important selection parameters for oat improvement. Proper study of these selection parameters has not been made earlier. That’s the reason oat improvement not getting a flow for its improvement. So the goal of this study was to determine the characters association in order to identify suitable genotypes for future breeding programmes of oat improvement. The current study was conducted during the rabi seasons of 2021 at the CSAUA&T, Kanpur. The experiment was set up in a three-replication using randomized block design, with a plot size of 3 ×1 m2 and row-to-row and plant-to-plant spacing of 30 and 5 cm, respectively. Grain yield per plant showed positive and significant correlation with dry weight, harvest index at both genotypic and phenotypic level. Fodder yield/fresh weight per plant showed positive significant correlation with plant height, tiller per plant, leaf per plant, leaf length, leaf width at both genotypic and phenotypic levels. Phenotypic path coefficient analysis values revealed high direct effects on grain yield per plant were exerted by leaf area, dry weight and harvest index and at genotypic level high direct effect on grain yield per plant were exerted by plant height, leaf area index, dry weight, harvest index indicating the best selection indices for future breeding programme to increase fresh fodder yield and seed yield in oat genotypes. ','Path coefficient, Correlation coefficient','On the basis of mean performance, genotypes OS-403, HJ-8, NDO-711, RO-19, OL-804, OS-377,RO-19,OL-14, OL-1760/OL-11,OL-10, CSAOFC-14-4, JHO-2010-1, NDO-10, UPO-212, OL-1802, OL-1876-2, UPO-06-1, OS-405, RO-11-1, OS-346 were found superior for fresh fodder yield compared to the best checks ( KENT and OS-6) and OS-424, OS-403, OL-1804, RO-19, OL-10, OS-346 for grain yield per plant as compared to the best checks ( KENT). After a detailed study of genotypic and phenotypic coefficient with path coefficient analysis for both grain and green fodder/fresh weight by selecting 12 characters on 38 germplasm of oat we observed some of characters are best selection parameters. As a result, the optimal selection indices dry weight, harvest index, plant height, tiller per plant, leaf per plant, leaf length, leaf width, leaf area, ,leaf area index for improving both green fresh fodder yield/fresh weight and seed yield per plant would be these. The study provides the opportunity to identify suitable genotypes and selection parameter to be used in future breeding programme.','INTRODUCTION\r\nThe common oat (Avena sativa L.) is cereal crop grown primarily for its green fodder and grains. Oats grain are suitable for human consumption whereas green and dry fodder is used as livestock feed. It belongs to family Poaceae and has three naturally occurring ploidy levels namely; diploid (2n=2x=14 having A and C genome), tetraploid (2n=4x= 28 with AB and AC genome) and hexaploid (2n=6x=42 containing ACD genome) (Loskutov, 2008). Oat is grown in 25.3 m ha area of the world producing 49.6 mt. of grains globally with a productivity of 1963 kg per hectare. The country\'s total oat-growing area is estimated to be around 5,000 acres. Uttar Pradesh has the most area under cultivation (34 percent), followed by Punjab (20 percent), Bihar (16 percent), Haryana (9 percent), and Madhya Pradesh (6 percent) (IGFRI, 2019).Whole (unhusked) oats produce/feeds have a high protein (12%), fat (5%), fibre (12–15%), and carbohydrate content when compared to other grains (about 64 percent).Oat green fodder contains 20 % dry matter, 10 % crude protein and 91 % organic matter. Oat straw is more nutritious and palatable than wheat straw as well as an important supplementary feed. It contains high amount of important vitamins and minerals such as vitamin E, Vitamins B, calcium, phosphorus, magnesium and potassium. The amino acid profile of proteins in oats kernel is considered to be in perfect proportion (Nanda et al., 2017). Oat protein is nearly equivalent in quality to soy protein, meat, milk and egg proteins which has been reported by WHO. The protein content of the hull-less oat kernel ranges from 12 to 24 per cent, which is the highest among cereals (Lasztity, 1999). Oat is also an important winter forage crop in many parts of the world. It includes total dietary fibre, including the soluble fibre -glucan, and is high in antioxidants such as -tocotrienol, -tocopherol, and avenanthramides, unlike other cereal grains such as wheat and barley (Oliver et al., 2010). Animal feeding systems are primarily based on grazed native grasslands, which are declining in terms of productivity and quality, as well as varying seasonally, resulting in poor animal performance. Despite the importance of livestock, poor animal nutrition is a prevalent problem in developing nations and a key stumbling block to the development of viable livestock industry. In India, the available feed supply is only one-third of what animals require (Younas and Yaqoob 2005). In order to harness potential production of oat, it is facing number of constraints including biotic, abiotic and agronomic stress. The study was conducted to vanquish all these hurdles and provide all necessary information regarding character association present in germplasm for researchers to speedup breeding programme for both fodder and seed production.\r\nMATERIAL AND METHODS\r\nThe current study was conducted during the rabi seasons of 2021 at the CSAUA&T, Kanpur, student instructional farm plot No. 41. The 38 genotypes were obtained from the Jhansi-based Indian Grassland and Fodder Research Institute. The experiment was set up in a three replication using randomized block design, with a plot size of 3 × 1 m2 and row-to-row and plant-to-plant spacing of 30 and 5 cm, respectively. Observations were recorded for: Days to 50% flowering, plant height (cm), tillers per plant, leaves per plant, leaf length (cm), leaf width (cm), fresh plant weight (g), leaf area (cm2), leaf area index, dry weight/plant (g), HI (percent), and grain yield per plant were all measured on three randomly selected competitive plants in each replication (g). The phenotypic, genotypic, and environmental coefficients of correlation were calculated using Al-Jibouri et al. (1958) technique. The significance of the phenotypic coefficient of correlation at (g–2) degrees of freedom and the environmental coefficient of correlation at [(r–1) (g–1) –1] degrees of freedom, where r and g stand for number of replication and genotypes, respectively, was tested against the table (r) values of correlation coefficients at a 5% level of significance (Fisher and Yates 1963). The path coefficient is a standardized partial regression coefficient that allows the direct and indirect effects of a set of variables (component characters) on a dependent variable to be partitioned. As recommended by Dewey and Lu (1959), direct and indirect effects of component characters on green forage yield were calculated using appropriate correlation coefficients of distinct component characters.\r\nRESULT AND DISCUSSION\r\nThe following are some of the components of the current study that have been discussed: correlation studies, and path coefficient analyses, with list of potential genotypes for each character. On the basis or mean performance of all 38 genotypes for all 12 features the observed potential genotype can be used for breeding programs are given in Table 1. The efficiency of any breeding or selection programme is determined by the type and relationship between yield and other characteristics. The coefficients of correlation are provided in Table 2. The phenotypic and genotypic path coefficient analysis is given Table 3 and 4 respectively.\r\nCorrelation Analysis: The Correlation studies provide details about the nature and magnitude of the association of different component characters with grain yield. Ultimately this could help the breeder to design selection strategies to improve grain and green fodder yield. Genotypic correlation coefficient was generally higher than phenotypic correlation coefficient for all the traits combination. High genotypic correlation compared to its respective phenotypic correlation Kumar et al. (2016). Low phenotypic correlations can be explained due to masking or modifying effects of environment on genetic association between characters. These results are in accordance with reports of Krishna et al. (2014); Poonia et al. (2018); Negi et al. (2019); Gandahi et al. (2021); Altuner (2021).\r\nCorrelation between grain yield and its associated traits: At genotypic level the grain yield per plant showed a positive and significant correlation with plant dry weight (0.538), harvest index (0.417). Negative non-significant correlation with grain yield is reported with tiller per plant (-0.205), leaf per plant (-0.111), leaf width (-0.296), leaf area (-0.165), leaf area index (-0.171) and non-significant positive correlation observed with leaf length (0.019), days of 50% flowering (0.011). Similar result were observed by Deep et al (2019); Tessema and Getinet (2020); Mecha et al. (2017); Baye et al. (2020) for harvest index. Bibi et al. (2012), Kumar et al. (2016) for tillers per plant. At phenotypic level the grain yield per plant showed a positive and significant correlation with plant dry weight (0.531), harvest index (0.412). Negative non-significant correlation with grain yield is reported with tiller per plant (-0.188), leaf per plant (-0.108), leaf width (-0.285), leaf area (-0.160), leaf area index (-0.168) and Non-significant positive correlation observed with leaf length (0.014), days of 50% flowering (0.007). The correlation result for one or more characters observed in study in accordance to the finding of Nehvi et al. (2000); Choubey et al. (2001; Tiwari and Pandey (2014); Kumar et al., (2004); Bibi et al. (2012) also reported same result for tiller per plant.\r\nCorrelation between green fodder/fresh weight yield and its component traits: After grain yield green fodder yield is the second most important traits in which breeders are interested to improve. Oat as a fodder has more desirable in relation of its palatable and nutritional quality compared to the other crop straw. Fodder yield association studied on total six characters. At genotypic level for green fodder/fresh weight the positive and significant correlation were observed with plant height (0.655), tillers per plant (0.457) leaf per plant (0.812), leaf length (0.513) and leaf width (0.497). For tiller per plant similar result were observed by Gandahi et al. (2021). At phenotypic level for green fodder /fresh weight the positive and significant correlation were observed with plant height (0.639), tillers per plant (0.414), leaf per plant (0.726), leaf length (0.494), leaf width (0.461). At both genotypic and phenotypic level positive and significant correlation for green fodder /fresh weight, the similar result were observed by Bibi et al. (2012) for number of tillers per plant, Dubey et al. (2014) for tillers per plant, leaf per plant, Devi et al. (2018) for tillers per plant, leaf per plant, Choudhary et al. (2020) for plant height, Negi et al. (2019) for tillers per plant. \r\nPath Coefficient analysis: Path coefficient analysis Wright, (1921), Dewey and Lu, (1959) is useful for partitioning correlations into direct and indirect effects of a single causal factor, determining the degree of relationship between yield and its component effects, and examining specific factors that provide a given correlation. \r\nThe direct genotypic effect on grain yield were exerted by leaf per plant (0.585), Leaf area index (1.417), dry weight (0.886), harvest index (0.895). The negative significant direct effect observed by fresh weight (-0.359), leaf area (-1.652). Positive non-significant direct effect observed for plant height (0.198), leaf width (0.037), Days of 50% flowering (0.118) and negative non-significant effect were observed for characters tillers per plant (-0.149), leaf length (-0.074). The result observed in study in accordance to the finding of Dubey et al. (2014); Krishna et al. (2014); Jaipal and Shekhawat (2016). \r\nAt phenotypic level the direct positive significant effect on grain yield were observed by leaf area (0.447), dry weight (0.926), harvest index (0.840). The negative significant direct effect observed for leaf area index (0.440). The negative non-significant direct effect observed for character tiller per plant (-0.046), leaf length (-0.067), leaf width (-0.077), fresh weight (-0.016) and positive non- significant direct effect observed for plant height (0.080), leaf per plant (0.066), days of 50% flowering (0.068).\r\n','Raj Kumar, R.P. Vyas, H.C. Singh, Smriti Varghese, Gaurav Mishra, Vivek Kumar and Anjali (2022). Comprehensive Study of Selection Parameters in Oat Genotypes for Fodder and Grain Yield. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 14(2): 979-984.'),(4989,'125','Validation of Monsoon Rainfall Forecast and Impact of Application of Agromet Advisory Services at Agro Sub Divisional Level in Khammam District of Telangana','Nagaraju Dharavath*, J. Hemantha Kumar, K. Ravi Kumar, G. Sreenivas, K. Nagaratna, V. Chaitanya, Jessie Suneetha W. and P.S.M. Phanisri','169 Validation of Monsoon Rainfall Forecast and Impact of Application of Agromet Advisory Services at Agro Sub Divisional Level in Khammam District of Telangana Nagaraju Dharavath.pdf','',1,'Temporal and spatial variability in weather conditions make significant impact on Indian agriculture from sowing to post harvesting and it is challenging to farmers to take decisions on daily farm operation from unexpected rainfall causing high expenditures. The complete avoidance of any loss from farm to fork due to aberrant weather is not possible, but can be minimized to a great extent with the weather forecasting through agromet advisory services (AAS) bulletins. AAS bulletins provide suitable management practices according to the weather forecast conditions of specific areas. To notice the accuracy of rainfall forecast, analysis was carried out during the southwest monsoon season, 2020. In this qualitative verification methods results revealed that the moderate skill score in Khammam district level and all ASD level weather forecast. A survey was conducted 186 farmers of Khammam district during year 2020-21 for reviewing effectiveness of AAS sent as bulletins, SMS and WhatsApp messages. During the survey farmers opined that AAS were highly useful to 65.05% followed by partially useful 30.11% of farmers for planning of sowing and harvesting operations and pesticide applications, respectively. During kharif season 2020 AAS farmers recorded more benefit cost ratio of 1.35, 1.05, and 2.10 in case of cotton, green gram, rice crops respectively than Non AAS farmers who recorded benefit cost ratio 1.14, 0.76 and 1.76 respectively. ','Validation, monsoon, agromet advisory services, DAMU, weather, forecast','The survey concluded that qualitative verification methods results revealed that the moderate skill score in Khammam district level and all ASD level weather forecasts. It was found that by AAS in the form of bulletins, SMS and WhatsApp messages were highly useful to mitigate the vagaries of weather on different crops of agriculture, horticulture and livestock. The survey revealed that quality of AAS bulletins, timely availability and accuracy of rainfall forecast information are the important tools for reduction of input cost of crops and increment of income level of farmers by managing the agricultural practices. ','INTRODUCTION \r\nAmong the various factors affecting the agricultural production, weather is the most important one in every phase of crop growth, development and ultimately yield were affected by weather parameters. Among the weather parameters, rainfall and its distribution fluctuates greatly than other parameters. Any variability in the rainfall during the crop season, such as delay in onset of monsoon, excessive rains and prolonged dry spells would affect the crop growth and finally the productivity. Validation of weather forecast analysis by different quantitative and qualitative methods was helpful in determining the degree of accuracy that is needed to further improve the service. The statistical and mathematical methods can be used to increase the trustworthiness of the weather prediction (Damrath et al., 2000). By adopting AAS in agriculture in view of weather forecasts can minimize crop losses. \r\nThe District Agro-met Units (DAMU) and Agro-met Field Units (AMFU) in our country provides AAS majorly as bulletins which includes weather forecast information for five days at district and agro sub divisional level on different weather parameters i.e., rainfall (mm), maximum and minimum temperatures (°C), morning and evening relative humidity (%), wind speed (kmph), wind direction (deg.), cloud cover (octa), pest-disease outbreak and strategic management practices of crops for their respective district. These AAS bulletins are prepared weekly twice on every Tuesday and Friday in bilingual (Telugu and English), disseminated to the farming community and district agriculture officers majorly through the WhatsApp groups made at block/agro-sub divisional level. \r\nThe AAS bulletins also includes agricultural activity on crop management, planning of irrigation, time and method of planting, fertilizer application, pesticide and herbicide application along with mitigation practices of weather vagaries so that, farmers can use natural resources in an effectual manner both in quantity and quality (Ray et al., 2017). The major objective of AAS is to help the farmers in capitalizing prevailing weather conditions in order to optimize the resource use and minimize loss due to harsh/aberrant weather conditions (Venkataraman, 2004). Agriculturally relevant forecast is not only useful for efficient management of farm inputs but also leads to precise impact assessment (Gadgil, 1989). \r\nHence, the present study was undertaken to validate the rainfall forecast of southwest monsoon, 2020 at district and ASD level, to know its impact, and economic benefit of AAS during year 2020-21 from the farming community.\r\nMATERIALS AND METHODS\r\nThe project “District Agro-Met Unit (DAMU) was established at KVK, Wyra, Khammam district under Gramin Krishi Mausam Sewa (GKMS) scheme” as a joint initiative of IMD and ICAR to cater agromet advisory services (AAS). This district was split up into five agro sub-divisions (ASD)/block namely Kusumanchi, Khammam Urban, Madhira, Wyra and Sathupally to prepare and disseminate AAS to farmers.\r\nFor effective dissemination and popularization of AAS to farming community at large scale various mass communication media have been approached like WhatsApp groups, print media, short message service (SMS), voice calls, Annapoorna Krishi Prasaar Seva (AKPS), mKisan, display boards at KVK, and capacity building programmes such as, farmer awareness programmes, group discussions, farmer interactions, field visits, etc., activities were conducted.\r\nFor validation of south west monsoon rainfall forecast, 2020 here are the quantitative and qualitative verification methods and error structure for rainfall criteria adopted from the standard operating procedure (SOP) of Gramin Krishi Mausam Seva (GKMS) (Anonymous, 2020).\r\nQuantitative verification methods\r\nError structure for quantitative verification of precipitation.\r\nCorrect Diff ≤ 25% of obs; \r\nUsable 25% of obs< Diff ≤ 50% of obs; \r\nUnusable Diff > 50% of obs\r\nwhere, Diff stands for Absolute difference of observed and obs stands for observed rainfall; quantity of rainfall of forecasted and observed taken in milli metres. \r\nRoot mean square error between the sum of absolute difference between observed values and forecasted values.\r\nCalculated the correlation between the observed and the forecasted value (range: -1 to +1). \r\nQualitative verification methods\r\nForecast Accuracy (ACC) or Ratio Score or Hit Score: It is the ratio of correct forecasts to the total number of forecasts used to measure of forecasting efficiency. The ratio score was calculated using the below given formula. \r\nRatio score = ((YY+ NN) )/((YY+NN+NY+NY))×100\r\nHanssen and Kuipers Scores or True Skill Score (HK score): It is the ratio of economic saving over climatology due to the forecast to that of a set of perfect forecasts. It ranges from –1 to +1 with 0 indicating no skill. The advantage of this method is equal emphasis to yes/no events.\r\nHK score= ([(YY×NN)-(YN×NY)] )/([(YY+YN)(NY+NN)])\r\nwhere, YY- Number of days when rain was forecasted and also observed \r\nNN-Number of days when rain was not observed and also not forecasted \r\nYN-Number of days when rain was observed but not forecasted\r\nNY-Number of days when rain was not observed but forecasted \r\nTo know the impact of AAS in the district a questionnaire was prepared by Agricultural Meteorology Division, Pune and data collected data from 186 farmers through one to one interaction. From 186 farmers, economic benefit of AAS was evaluated with 30 each farmers were selected randomly who follow and who do not follow AAS bulletins from the five agro sub division of the district. The questionnaire prepared for collecting information from farmers was given in the Table 1.\r\nRESULTS AND DISCUSSIONS \r\nThe results obtained from the present investigation as well as relevant discussion have been summarized under the following heads: \r\nValidation of rainfall forecast at district and agro sub divisional level. The district and agro sub divisional (ASD) level rainfall forecast for Khammam \r\ndistrict during south-west monsoon season (2020) was verified with the observed rainfall data provided by TSDPS website, Government of Telangana. The quantitative and qualitative methods of validation of district and block level forecast for Khammam district were presented in Table 2.\r\nIn the results of quantitative verifications methods revealed that the correctness of forecast was observed as moderate skill score i.e., 50.00 per cent in case of Khammam district level and moderate skill score i.e., 64.38, 69.86, and 68.35 per cent in case of Khammam Urban, Kusumanchi and Wyra ASD level forecast and high skill score i.e., 77.63 and 72.22 in case of Madhira and Sathupally ASD level forecast, respectively. The usable forecast (in per cent) was found as 10.81 in case of Khammam district and 6.85, 4.11, 2.63, 2.78 and 7.59 in the case of Khammam Urban, Kusumanchi, Madhira, Sathupally and Wyra ASD level forecast, respectively. The unusable forecast (in per cent) was observed as 39.19 in the case of Khammam district level and 28.77, 26.03, 19.74, 25.00 and 25.05 in the case of Khammam Urban, Kusumanchi, Madhira, Sathupally and Wyra ASD level forecast, respectively. \r\nThe results revealed that correlation coefficient (r) of rainfall forecast was observed as 0.32 in case of Khammam dist level and 0.24, 0.28, 0.17, 0.25 and 0.24 in case of Khammam Urban, Kusumanchi, Madhira, Sathupally and Wyra ASD level forecast, respectively. In the results the RMSE values were observed highest in Wyra ASD as 21.88 and lowest in Kusumanchi ASD as 13.48. \r\nThe results of qualitative verification methods revealed that ratio score (in per cent) of rainfall correctness was moderate skill score i.e., 60.66 for Khammam district level and 59.84 for both Khammam Urban and Kusumanchi ASD level, and 62.30, 59.02, 64.75 for Madhira, Sathupally, Wyra ASD level was observed, respectively. The results showed that Hanssen & Kuipers score (H.K. score) was moderate skill score i.e., 0.23 in case of Khammam district level forecast and 0.18, 0.16, 0.14, 0.13 and 0.25 in case of Khammam Urban, Kusumanchi, Madhira, Sathupally and Wyra ASD level forecast, respectively. \r\nSimilar research methods were used (Parvinder and Rathore 2011) for verification of weather forecast for Kharif and Rabi during 2003–2007 as per the guidelines of NCMRWF. The validation of agro sub divisional level rainfall forecast showed more accuracy when compared to district level rainfall forecast and it may be due ASD level forecast have higher resolution as compared to district level.\r\nImpact of Application of Agromet Advisory Services. The impact of agromet advisory services (AAS) results data collected from 186 farmers by a questionnaire is given below. \r\nData on following of weather based agro advisory bulletin for farm operation. The data was collected to know whether farmers are aware of AAS bulletins given by District Agro-Met Unit (DAMU) on every week of Tuesday and Friday are presented in Table 3. The results were shown that majority of the farmers (88.17 per cent) opined that they follow weather based agro advisory bulletins for farm operation and few farmers (11.83 per cent) opined that they did not follow weather based agro advisory bulletins. \r\nRegularity of bi-weekly weather forecast and agromet advisory bulletins. The data on effectiveness of agromet advisory bulletins and regularity of receiving AAS bulletins are presented in Table 4. The results shown that 83.33% of farmers opined as regular, 12.37% of farmers opined as the somewhat regular and very few farmers 4.30% opined as irregular. Similar results of regularity of biweekly agro advisory services were reported by Ravi et el., 2020 of AAS and 80.00 per cent farmers were received benefitted.\r\nData on source of weather forecast and agromet advisories followed by farmers. The efforts were made to know the different communication media followed by farmers are presented in the Table 5. In that result, it was found that 74.73 per cent of farmers were getting AAS bulletins through WhatsApp, 38.17 per cent of farmers through Television, 24.19 per cent of farmers through news paper and 20.43 per cent of farmers through SMS. Some of the farmers were also getting information by interacting with other farmers and social media like Facebook and Instagram. Similar results of source of weather forecast and AAS were carried out by Manjusha et al. (2019) stated that mass media has great potential in disseminating weather forecast to farmers from an extent 90 per cent to overcome aberrant weather.\r\nData on most suited and preferred medium of weather based agro advisory. The study was made to know the most suitable and preferred communication media followed by the farmers, in this regard data are presented in Table 6. The study has revealed that 65.05 per cent of farmers preferred WhatsApp followed by 58.06 per cent of farmers preferred Television, 29.03 per cent of farmers preferred news paper, 6.99 per cent of farmers preferred SMS, 6.99 per cent of farmers preferred others like Facebook, and other social media.\r\nRelevance/usefulness of the weather based agro advisories bulletins. The sampled farmers were asked to know how relevant / useful of weather based agromet advisory services bulletins are categorized as highly useful, partially useful and not useful. The data thus obtained are presented in Table 7. The results shown that 65.05 per cent farmers opined highly useful followed by 30.11 per cent of farmers partially useful and 1.08 per cent not useful. In addition to this, farmers opined that application of weather based agro advisory bulletin highly useful to enhance the crop production and to minimize the costs of inputs. \r\nFarm operation for which weather forecast/ agromet advisories are used. The efforts were made to know use of agro-met advisory bulletin for planning of farm operations and obtained data are presented in Table 8. In this results revealed that 41.40 per cent, 33.87 per cent and 31.72 per cent of the sampled farmers were using the AAS information for planning the harvesting / threshing operations, sowing time of crops and chemical applications of crops, respectively. This was followed by 13.44 per cent farmers for planning the time of fertilizer application, 14.52 per cent of farmers for post harvest operations and 4.30 per cent irrigation applications. Prasad et al. (2020) in their survey showed that 65.0 % of farmers check weather forecast before going to spraying operation, 73.0 % for irrigation and 55.0 % for animal husbandry activities.\r\nData collected on weather event most important for farmer farm operation. The data collected to know which one is the most important weather event for farmers among their farm operation. The results shown in Table 9 revealed that 94.62 and 87.10 per cent of farmers responded with heavy rain and rain, respectively. This was followed by 39.78, 31.18 and 26.34 per cent farmers responded with wind, high temperature and thunderstorm activities, respectively. 13.98 per cent and 11.29 per cent of the farmers were responded with cloud coverage and low temperatures, respectively. Very few farmers (3.23 per cent) of farmers responded with low relative humidity. In this survey, farmers were also appreciated the dissemination and accuracy of now cast weather forecast information at district level. \r\nFarmer’s satisfaction by the agromet advisory services. The data was collected to rate the satisfaction level of the agromet advisory services given in agro-met advisory bulletin by the farmers. It is observed from the results Table 10 that 35.48 per cent and 43.55 per cent of the respondent farmers rated agro-met \r\nadvisory bulletin as highly satisfied and satisfied, respectively. This was followed by 13.98 per cent partially satisfied and 6.99 per cent not satisfied, respectively. Ravi et al. (2020) in their results revealed that 55.0 % of AAS farmers rated the advisories as ‘very good’ on the scale of very poor to very good.\r\nBest time for farmers to listen/ watch weather and agromet advisories. The data was also collected to know the best time to listen / watch weather forecast and agromet advisories for their farm operation; the data in this regard presented in the Table 11. In this study results found that 55.91 and 19.35 per cent farmers watch weather advisories at afternoon (3 to 5 \r\nPM) and evening (6 to 7 PM), respectively. This was followed by 12.37 and 4.84 per cent of farmers watch weather advisories at early morning (5 to 7 AM) and at morning (7 to 9 AM) and very few farmers watch weather advisories at Noon (12 to 2 PM) and respectively. \r\nData on farmers spreading weather forecast message to others. The data was collected to know spreading of AAS bulletins and messages one to others through different communication media. The results obtained are presented in Table 10. In this study also farmers can choose more than one option. The results of Table 12 revealed that more spreading (45.16 per \r\ncent) was observed through oral / discussion with other farmers, followed by 34.95 per cent of farmers through WhatsApp / SMS to others and 20.43 per cent of farmers through group discussions / meetings / clubs. 12.37 per cent farmers were not disseminating to others. \r\nData on average percentage of production lost during the crop season due to bad weather. The data also collected on average percentage of production lost during the kharif season 2020 due to bad weather. By this feedback we can improve the suggestions of mitigation practices of different crops due to bad weather like heavy and continuous rainfall, high wind speed, etc. The results of Table 13 revealed that highest loss was observed in particular of more than 40 % by 30.65 per cent of farmers, followed by less than 10 % loss for 27.96 per cent of farmers, 10-20 % loss for 16.67 per cent of farmers, 31- 40% loss for 12.37 per cent of farmers, 21-30 % loss for 8.60 per cent farmers and no loss was observed for 3.76 per cent of farmers. In addition to this farmers appreciated the dissemination of rainfall alerts within three hours to save their harvested produce by covering with polythene sheet. \r\nEconomic importance of agromet advisory services (AAS) in cotton, green gram and paddy in Kharif season 2020. The data on economic benefit obtained by 30 farmers who followed the agromet advisory services (AAS farmers) and 30 farmers who not followed the agromet advisory services (Non AAS farmers) has been evaluated for the kharif season 2020. The data on total cost of cultivation, crop yield and net returns per acre of land for cotton, green gram and rice grown by the AAS and non AAS farmers during kharif season 2020 were also taken and comprehensively discussed below.\r\nThe results given in Table 14 shows that the cost of cultivation of cotton in case of AAS farmers was less as compared to non AAS farmers, and also the farmers were getting higher cotton yield (9.54 %) as compared non AAS Farmers. The total cost of cultivation was found to be lower in the case of AAS farmers who have effectively adopted the ago-met advisory compared to \r\nnon AAS farmers; AAS farmer’s net returns were higher than the non AAS farmers. From Table 15 it is observed that the total cost of cultivation, gross returns, net returns and B:C ratio were Rs. 33057.00 / acre, Rs. 44640.00 / acre and Rs. 11583.00 / acre and 1.35 respectively in case of AAS farmers where, Rs. 35599.00 / acre, Rs. 40455.00 / acre and Rs. 4856.00 / acre and 1.14 in case of non-AAS farmers for cotton crop. This profit was might be due to the crop management done by the farmers such as timely land preparation, sowing, adoption of recommended seed rate, suitable varieties, timely weeding, harvesting and pesticide applications, as per agromet advisory bulletins. \r\nRathore and Parvinder (2008) also showed that impact analysis of agromet advisory services were able to reduce the cost of cultivation by two to five per cent. \r\nIt is revealed from the Table 16 that the cost of cultivation of green gram in case AAS farmers was less as compared to Non AAS farmers, and also the farmers were getting higher grain yield (25.29 %) as compared Non AAS Farmers. The total cost of cultivation was found to be slightly lower in the case of AAS farmers who have effectively adopted the ago-met advisory compared to non AAS farmers; their net returns were greater than the non AAS farmers. From Table 17 it is observed that the total cost of cultivation, gross return, net return and B:C ratio were Rs. 13290.00 / acre, Rs. 14016.00 / acre, Rs. 726 /acre and 1.05, respectively for AAS farmers and Rs. 13918 / acre, Rs. 10470.00 / acre, loss of Rs. 3448 / acre and 0.76 for non-AAS farmers for green gram crop. From this, it is observed that the AAS farmers have realized good benefit than non-AAS farmers with an increase in net profit of 25.29 increases. It is observed from the Table 15 that net return and B:C ratio was more in case of AAS Farmers as compared with non AAS farmers in case of green gram. \r\nHansen (2002) has mentioned that AAS is an emerging capacity to provide timely, skillful weather forecasts offers the potential improvement in production and productivity of crops by reducing the vulnerability of vagaries of weather.\r\nIt is found from the Table 17 that the cost of cultivation of transplanted rice in case AAS farmers was less as compared to Non AAS farmers, and also the farmers were getting higher grain yield (10.33 %) as compared Non AAS Farmers. The total cost of cultivation was found to be lower in the case of AAS farmers who have effectively adopted the ago-met advisory compared to non AAS farmers; their net returns were greater than the non AAS farmers. From Table 18 it is observed that the total cost of cultivation, gross return, net return and B:C ratio were Rs. 23905.00 / acre, Rs. 50135.00 / acre, Rs. 26230.00 / acre and 2.10 respectively in case of AAS farmers and Rs. 25604.00 / acre, Rs. 44955.00 / \r\nacre and Rs. 19351.00 / acre and 1.76 in case of Non AAS farmers for green gram crop. This profit might be due to management done by the farmers such as timely sowing, suitable varieties, timely application of herbicides, pesticide applications, timely harvesting and management of post harvesting operations according to weather forecast and agromet advisory bulletins. \r\nSingh et al. (2020) also revealed that AAS farmers have got 22 per cent more net returns and then non-AAS farmers due to proper utilization of inputs and reducing input cost. \r\n','Nagaraju Dharavath, J. Hemantha Kumar , K. Ravi Kumar, G. Sreenivas, K. Nagaratna, V. Chaithanya, Jessie Suneetha W. and P.S.M. Phanisri (2022). Validation of Monsoon Rainfall Forecast and Impact of Application of Agromet Advisory Services at Agro Sub Divisional Level in Khammam District of Telangana. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 14(2): 985-993.'),(4990,'125','Genetic Diversity and Protein Analysis in Greengram','Gyanisha Nayak*, Devraj Lenka, Manasi Dash and Swapan Kumar Tripathy','170 Genetic Diversity and Protein Analysis in Greengram Gyanisha Nayak.pdf','',1,'Greengram is the 3rd most important pulse crop in India next to chickpea and redgram. Though it is well-known for its nutritional value and adaptability to a variety of cropping systems, little systematic work has been done to develop better high-yielding genotypes and high seed protein content genotypes. Genetic improvement requires concerted research efforts to explore genetic diversity and to comprehend the variability in different genotypes in order to analyze and create diverse lines for future breeding operations. Therefore a set of sixty-six greengram genotypes were evaluated to study the genetic variability and diversity in order to make a judicious selection of parents for getting significant recombinations. Seed yield/plant exhibited the highest phenotypic and genotypic coefficient of variation (24.42 and 21.85%). High heritability coupled with high genetic advance was found in plant height, number of clusters/plant, number of pods/plant, hundred seed weight and seed yield/plant indicating the role of additive gene action providing thereby ample scope for effective selection. Diversity analysis led to the constellation of 6 clusters signifying that eco-geographic diversity is not a reliable index for genetic diversity. The genotypes belonging to cluster IV (AB-2557) and cluster VI (HUM-10) showing the highest inter-cluster distance (6154.40) can be selected for improvement of yield related traits in greengram. Results from protein analysis revealed the genotype HUM-10 has the highest protein content (32.68%). Therefore, it may be used as a source of germplasm for high seed protein content.','Genetic variability, diversity analysis, greengram, protein analysis','In the present research, all the genotypes were significantly different for all the characters studied indicating the presence of sufficient variability in these genotypes to have an effective selection. Seed yield exhibited high magnitude in both PCV and GCV apart from high heritability and genetic advance, hence direct mass selection may be rewarded for improvement in this trait. Based on diversity analysis it can be concluded that genotypes AB-2557 and HUM-10 can be used as parents from monogenotypic clusters IV and VI in hybridization, which may produce new recombinants with desired traits. Results from protein analysis confirmed that among all the genotypes studied, HUM-10 exhibited the highest protein content (32.68%). Therefore, it may be used as a source of germplasm for high seed protein and could be crossed with high-yielding varieties for further releasing of superior variety with high yield and high seed protein content.','INTRODUCTION\r\nGreengram (Vigna radiata (L.) Wilczek) is the 3rdmost important pulse crop in India next to chickpea and redgram. This self-pollinating legume belongs to family fabaceae. It isa diploid crop having chromosome number 2n=22 (Karpechenko, 1925) and originated from the Indo-Burma region of the Hindustan center (Vavilov, 1926). Nutritionally, greengram is a protein-rich food containing around 23% protein. The protein is rich in lysine, minerals, and vitaminshence meeting the dietary needs of the vegetarian population of the country. The genetics of the protein or its constituents may give some valuable signs for further enhancement in protein level and quality of protein. Greengram is cultivated widely because of its adaption to short growth duration, low water requirement, restoring of soil fertility through biological nitrogen fixation, tendency to reduce greenhouse gases, capacity to increase carbon sequestration, and thus, plays an important role in sustainable agriculture. It is grown all over the country in several seasons as a sole crop as well as an intercrop or mixed crop with cereals forming an important constituent of crop rotation.\r\nYield is a complex trait and highly influenced by the environment due to polygenic effects (Allard, 1960). To accumulate optimum yield, it is necessary to know the presence of genetic variability among the yield contributing characters for effective selection. Genetic diversity is the basic requirement for any breeding programme which aims at genetic amelioration of yield. Effective hybridization programmes between genetically diverse parents will cause a substantial amount of heterotic response in F1 hybrid and therefore the broad spectrum of variability in segregating generations. Therefore, an attempt was made to study the extent of the genetic divergence among 66 genotypes of greengram through D2 statistics (Mahalanobis, 1936) to choose genetically diverse parents. Further protein analysis was done on the seed protein content of germplasms.\r\nMATERIALS AND METHODS \r\nThe present experiment was conducted at EB-II section, Department Plant Breeding and Genetics, College of Agriculture, Odisha University of Agriculture and Technology (OUAT), Bhubaneswar, during rabi 2019-20.A set of 66 greengram germplasm lines including standard ruling varieties, important pre-released varieties and popularly adopted local landraces were laid out in randomized block design with 3 replications. The crop was raised following recommended agronomic packages & practices and observations were recorded on five randomly selected plants per replication for ten quantitative characters viz., days to 50 % flowering (DF), days to maturity (DM), plant height (PH) in cm, number of branches/plant (B/P), number of clusters/plant (C/P), number of pods/plant (P/P), pod length (PL) in cm, number of seeds/pod (S/P), hundred seed weight (HSW) in gram and seed yield/plant (SY/P) in gram.\r\nThe mean for all the characters of five plants in each plot was subjected to analysis of variance (ANOVA) as per the method suggested by Panse and Sukhathme (1967). Estimation of genetic parameters like phenotypic and genotypic coefficients of variation, heritability (h2, broad sense in %) and genetic advance (GA as % of mean) were worked out according to the formulas given by Singh and Chaudhary (1977). On the basis of heritability values characters were classified to high (>60), moderate (31-60) and low (0-30) heritable (Johnson et al., 1955). Likewise, characters were classified as having high (>20), moderate (10-20) and low (0-10) genetic advance as per the method of Johnson et al. (1955).Genetic diversity analysis was conducted using Mahalanobis D2 statistic (1936) and the genotypes were grouped into clusters by Tocher’s method (Rao, 1952). For protein analysis, matured seeds from each genotype from each replication were harvested, dried up to a safe moisture level (12-13%) and powered to estimate protein content. Nitrogen content present in seed was estimated in CHNS (O) analyzer. Then it was multiplied with a factor 6.25 to arrive at the percentage protein content of seeds (Jones, 1941).\r\nRESULTS AND DISCUSSION\r\nGenetic variability: Result of ANOVA revealed that all the genotypes were significantly different for all the characters studied suggesting the presence of substantial variability among the germplasm under investigation (Table 1), which will be much beneficial for the selection of breeding material. This wide range of variation may be due to diverse origins and geographical adaptation of genotypes. Estimates of phenotypic coefficient of variations (PCV) were higher than genotypic coefficient of variations (GCV) for all the characters under study (Table 2), which indicates that there was some environmental influence on these characters (Rahim et al., 2010). Seed yield per plant exhibited the highest value of PCV and GCV indicating a relatively higher contribution of this character towards genotypic variability. Hence direct selection based on this trait would be effective. This result was in conformity with the findings of Srivastava and Singh (2012); Patel et al. (2014). It was noticed that number of branches/plant had maximum difference between GCV and PCV which indicate the environmental effect is more in this character, hence much care should be taken up while selecting this character (Varma et al., 2018). \r\nCharacters like plant height, number of clusters/plant, number of pods/plant, hundred seed weight and seed yield exhibited high heritability (broad sense in %) accompanied with high genetic advance (G.A. in % of mean) resembling the action of additive gene in controlling these characters and selection based on these characters would be rewarding for enhancement of yield. Evidently, high heritability coupled with high genetic advance suggesting the role of additive gene action for seed yield per plant was reported earlier by Patel et al. (2014), Raturi et al. (2015); Mariyammal et al. (2019).\r\nDiversity analysis: \r\nComposition of clusters: Sixty-six genotypes were grouped into 6 clusters using Tocher’s method (Table 3). Cluster I containing 51 genotypes was the largest one followed by cluster III (7), cluster II (5), while the rest three clusters viz., cluster IV, V and VI represented one genotype each suggesting presence of heterogeneity among the genotypes. It was observed from the results that genotypes having different sources of origin grouped into same cluster. Also, materials of the same source have been grouped in different clusters indicating eco-geographic diversity is not a reliable index for genetic diversity (Vijaya and Shekhawat, 2012). Therefore, it is advised that the selection of parents during crossing programme should be based on genetic divergence rather than their geographic diversity.\r\nIntra- and inter-cluster distance:\r\nAverage intra- and inter-cluster distances (D2) values among the six clusters were calculated using divergence analysis (Table 4). The intra-cluster distance varied from 0 (cluster IV, V and VI) to 1023.36 (cluster III) and the inter-cluster distance varied from 654.34 (cluster V & VI) to 6154.40 (cluster IV & VI). Maximum intra-cluster distance indicated the presence of greater diversity among the genotypes allocated in those respective clusters. Minimum inter-cluster distance was revealed between cluster V & VI (654.34) \r\nshowing that the genotypes present in them were closely related. The highest inter-cluster distance was observed between cluster IV & VI (6154.40) indicating the genotypes included in them were diverse. Greater the distance between two clusters, wider the genetic diversity among genotypes. So, hybridization between the genotypes of the cluster IV & VI having maximum inter-cluster distance would result in high heterotic combination. Similar type of findings were earlier observed by Singh et al. (2014); Rekha et al. (2015).\r\n \r\nCluster means: Considerable variations in mean performances of various traits among the clusters suggest that quantitative traits can reveal the existing diversity (Walle et al., 2019).Characterization of clusters was done as per the D2 distances (Table 5). Cluster III recording the highest intra-cluster distance was characterized by highest pod length (6.76cm), more number of seeds per pod (11.32) and maximum 100 seed weight (3.59gm) with comparatively larger seeds and was found to be superior among all the 6 clusters studied. The traits like plant height (41.00 cm) and seed yield per plant (3.38gm) had the highest mean value in cluster IV. Cluster V had genotypes with more number of branches/plant (2.13) and more number of pods/plant (11.73). Cluster VI was characterized by less number of days to attain 50% flowering (34.33), less number of days to attain maturity (60.67) and maximum number of pods/plant (11.73). These type of findings have been earlier confirmed by Abna et al. (2012); Razzaque et al. (2016). The results indicate that for creation of variability cross between genotypes with high cluster mean values followed by selection is required.\r\nRelative contribution of component characters to genetic divergence: According to Gupta et al. (2019) characters giving the highest contribution towards the diversity could be used further in the identification of the parents for the hybridization programme. Relative contribution of individual characters to overall genetic divergence among the genotypes was assessed by rank average method (Table 6). Among all the characters studied plant height (18.70%), number of seeds/pod (16.22%), days to 50% flowering (15.71%), number of pods/plant (15.48%) and seed yield/plant (10.02%) contributed maximum (60.65%) towards genetic divergence. Rest of the traits exhibiting divergence in order were number of clusters/plant (8.86%), hundred seed weight (8.11%), days to maturity (3.73%), pod length (1.68%) and number of branches/plant (1.49%).So characters like days to 50% flowering, plant height, number of seeds per pod, number of pods per plant and seed yield per plant should form criteria for selection of parents from distantly placed clusters for hybridization programme. These results have been in conformity with the findings of Garje et al. (2013); Jeeva and Saravanan (2017).\r\nProtein analysis: Analysis of variance for this character showed highly significant difference among all the genotypes suggesting presence of substantial variability in the material under investigation (Table 7) which will be much beneficial for the selection of breeding material (Reddy et al., 2011). The seed protein content was ranged from 16.56% in PDM-154 to 35.68% in HUM-10 (Table 8). Wide range of variation in seed protein content was previously observed by Raturi et al. (2014). Coefficient of variation was found to be low for this character (1.74). Estimates of PCV (11.53) and GCV (11.40) were moderate. High heritability (97.73%) and high expected genetic advance as a percentage of the population mean (12.63%) indicated the role of additive gene action, hence providing the scope for enhancement of this trait through selection (Jayalakshmi et al., 2019 in chickpea). Further, it showed negative correlation with seed yield (-0.018), which was earlier reported by Kumar et al. (2013).\r\n','Gyanisha Nayak, Devraj Lenka, Manasi Dash and Swapan Kumar Tripathy (2022). Genetic Diversity and Protein Analysis in Greengram. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 14(2): 994-999.'),(4991,'125','Antagonistic activity of Trichoderma spp. against Fusarium oxysporum f.sp. lycopersici causing Fusarium Wilt of Tomato','Nitisha Gahlot*, R.N. Bunker and Abhinav','171 Antagonistic activity of Trichoderma spp. against Fusarium oxysporum f.sp. lycopersici causing Fusarium Wilt of Tomato Nitisha Gahlot.pdf','',1,'Tomato wilt is most devastating disease of tomato, caused by Fusarium oxysporum f.sp. lycopersici that limiting tomato production severely all over the world. Biological control with Trichoderma spp. has emerged as one of the most promising alternatives to the chemical control. The objective of present investigation was to examine the antagonistic activity of five different Trichoderma spp. viz. Trichoderma viride-5 (IIHR-T.V.-5), Trichoderma viride-PCI (T.V. P.C.I.), Trichoderma aureoviride (DG. A. 91-5), Trichoderma harzianum (J.H.H.89-2) and Trichoderma harzianum (ITCC- 7922/10) in laboratory conditions by applying dual culture technique, against Fusarium oxysporum f.sp. lycopersici causing tomato wilt disease. In-vitro test showed that all the Trichoderma spp. were antagonistic to the Fusarium oxysporum f.sp. lycopersici. Among all, Trichoderma viride-5 (IIHR-T.V.-5) was found most effective in inhibiting the mycelial growth of the pathogen and showed highest antagonistic activity, followed by Trichoderma viride-PCI (T.V. PCI). Application of Trichoderma spp. in the field not only serve as disease controlling methods but also advantageous for the vegetative growth of the plant.','Trichoderma, tomato, wilt, Fusarium oxysporum f.sp. lycopersici','Hence, from the present study and results, it is concluded that in in vitro efficacy of biological control agents Trichoderma viride-5 was found to be most effective for the suppression of mycelia growth of tomato wilt pathogen Fusarium oxysporum f.sp. lycopersici followed by Trichoderma viride-PCI. The use of bio-control agent has proved economic and ecological alternative method to manage different plant disease in effective manner.','INTRODUCTION\r\nTomato (Lycopersicon esculentum Mill.) is also known as “poor man’s apple” and “protective food” (Mehta, 2017). It belongs to the family Solanaceae and viewed as one of the world\'s most mainstream vegetables (Pritesh and Subramanian 2011). It is an important dietary component and contains high-value in local market among horticultural crops. The fruit contains good amount of nutrients such as, vitamins A (42 µg), B1 (0.037 µg), B3 (0.594 µg), B6 (0.08 µg), C (14mg), E (0.54 mg), K (7.9 mg), beta-carotene (449 µg) and fat (0.2 g), protein (0.9 g), dietary fibres (1.2g), lycopene (2573µg), sugars (2.6 g) water (94.5g) and carbohydrates (3.9 g), (nutritional value per 100 g) (Anon. 2020) and also contain some minerals such as calcium, phosphorus, potassium and magnesium (Kaushik et al., 2011). A number of biotic and abiotic factors affect the quality and productivity of tomato in which diseases caused by fungi, bacteria, viruses and nematode, are most important. Among which Fusarium wilt caused by Fusarium oxysporum f.sp. lycopersici affect all tomato growing areas all over the world and causes serious economic losses (Singh et al., 2015). Fusarium wilt or vascular wilt disease of tomato, caused by Fusarium oxysporum f.sp. lycopersici (Sacc.) W.C. Snyder and H.N. Hans is one of the major constraints in tomato production. The disease was first reported by G.E. Massee in 1895 from England. First of all Link (1809) described the genus Fusarium and later classified in fungi imperfecti in the class Hyphomycetes. In India the disease was first reported by Butler, 1918 from Pusa, Bihar as Fusarium oxysporum f.sp. lycopersici according to Shiva \r\net al. (2013). Snyder and Hans (2003) reported that Fusarium oxysporum f.sp. lycopersici (Sacc.) is a soil borne fungus and is specific for tomato causing wilt disease in it. Kapoor (1988) characterized disease by yellowing of leaves with wilted plants with minimum or absent of crop yield also stated that tomato wilt causes 30-40% yield loss and under favorable conditions losses increased to 80%. Biological control with Trichoderma spp. has emerged as one of the most promising alternatives to the chemical control. Application of Trichoderma spp. in the field not only serve as disease controlling methods but also advantageous for the vegetative growth of the plants.\r\n \r\n\r\n\r\nMATERIALS AND METHOD\r\nIsolation, identification and pathogenecity of Fusarium oxysporum f.sp. lycopersici\r\nIsolation of the pathogen was done by tissue isolation method from the diseased part of the tomato plant. The fungus isolated from diseased tissues was purified by hyphal tip method and identified on the basis of cultural and morphological characters and later confirmed from Indian Type Culture Collection (ITCC), Division of Plant Pathology, IARI, New Delhi-110012. Pathogenicity of isolated culture was examined by growing tomato plants containing pathogen infested soil as per Koch’s postulates.\r\nAntagonistic activity of Trichoderma sps. against Fusarium oxysporum f.sp. lycopersici\r\n The antagonistic activity of five Trichoderma sps. viz., Trichoderma viride-5 (IIHR-T.V-5) procured from Indian Institute of Horticulture Research, Bengaluru, Trichoderma viride-PCI, procured from PCI: Pest Control India Pvt. Ltd., Bengaluru and three resident bioagent viz; Trichoderma aureoviride (DG.A. 91-5), Dungarpur, Trichoderma harzianum (JH.H.89-2) and Trichoderma harzianum (ITCC- 7922/10) procured from Udaipur were tested against wilt pathogen Fusarium oxysporum f.sp. lycopersici by using dual culture technique.\r\nTwenty ml of PDA was transferred in each petri plate aseptically and allowed to solidify. Mycelial disc of five mm of each antagonist and test fungus were placed separately at some distance on the periphery of petri plates containing solid PDA medium. A fungus growing pteri plate without antagonist was also kept as control, by placing one bit of the pathogen in the centre of the plate. Five replications of each treatment were maintained. Both inoculated and un-inoculated plates were incubated at 28 ±1°C and observed after seven days to record the growth of antagonist and test pathogen. Antagonistic activity of each bio-control agent was calculated by measuring the linear growth of the test pathogen both in dual culture and control plates. Per cent growth inhibition of pathogen and Index of antagonism were determined in each treatment by using following standard formula (Bell et al., 1982):\r\nI= (C-T)/C ×100\r\nWhere, I= percent growth inhibition zone of pathogen\r\nC= Growth of test fungus in control (mm)\r\nT= Growth of test fungus in dual culture (mm).\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\nRESULT AND DISCUSSION\r\nEfficacy of five Trichoderma spp. viz. Trichoderma viride -5(IIHR-T.V-5) procured from Indian Institute of Horticulture Research, Bengaluru, Trichoderma viride-PCI, procured from PCI: Pest Control India Pvt. Ltd., Bengaluru and three resident bioagent viz; Trichoderma aureoviride (DG.A. 91-5), Dungarpur, Trichoderma harzianum (JH.H.89-2) and Trichoderma harzianum (ITCC- 7922/10) procured from Udaipur were tested against Fusarium oxysporum f.sp. lycopersici (UDPA Fo-1) by using dual culture technique.\r\nAll the five bio-control agents were significantly reduced the mycelial growth of the pathogen. Results depicted that minimum mycelial growth of pathogen, 19.00mm was found in Trichoderma viride -5 (IIHR-T.V-5) with maximum per cent growth inhibition 78.88% followed by T. viride-PCI (T.V.-PCI) with 22.60mm mycelial growth and 74.82% growth inhibition. Further, bio-agent T. harzianum (JH.H.89-2) showed 26.30mm mycelial growth with 70.77% growth inhibition of pathogen. Maximum mycelial growth of pathogen (30.00mm) was found in T. aureoviride (DG.A. 91-5) with minimum per cent growth inhibition (66.66%) followed by T. harzianum (ITCC- 7922/10) which showed 29.00mm mycelial growth and 67.77% growth inhibition of pathogen (Table 1, Plate1, Fig. 1).\r\nThe present findings are in conformity with Bhujbal et al. (2021), they tested antagonistic activity of six different bio-agents viz. Trichoderma viride, T. harzianum, T. hamatum, T. koningii, Bacillus subtilis and Pseudomonas fluorescens in in vitro conditions against Fusarium oxysprum f.sp. lycopersici. Among them, T. viride (84.84% growth inhibition) was found superior followed by T. harzianum (72.54% growth inhibition) and T. hamatum (69.93% growth inhibition) to inhibit fungal growth of pathogen. Similarly, Kumar et al. (2021) tested antagonistic activity of five bio control agents viz. T. harzianum, T. viride, Chaetomium globosum, Bacillus subtilis and Pseudomonas fluorescence by employing dual culture technique against Fusarium oxysporum f.sp. lentis causing vascular wilt of lentil. Among them, T. viride (76.25% growth inhibition) found significantly superior followed by Chaetomium globosum (75% growth inhibition) after 144 hours of incubation. Reports of Sara et al. (2018); Devi et al. (2013) also support the present findings. Bio-control through Trichoderma spp. has great potential to reduce the disease in lab as well as in field conditions. Akrami and Yousefi (2015) stated that T. harzianum, T. aspergillum and T. virens has more protective effect against Fusarium solani and Fusarium oxysporum.\r\n','Nitisha Gahlot, R.N. Bunker and Abhinav (2022). Antagonistic Activity of Trichoderma spp. Against Fusarium oxysporum f.sp. lycopersici causing Fusarium Wilt of Tomato. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 14(2): 1000-1003.'),(4992,'125','Assessing the Socio-Economic Profile of Farmers in Adapting CRA Practices, Odisha- A Comparative Approach','Angelina Patro*, Pradip Kumar Banerjee and Debasmita Nayak','172 Assessing the Socio-Economic Profile of Farmers in Adapting CRA Practices, Odisha- A Comparative Approach Angelina Patro.pdf','',1,'To combat the changing climatic conditions, it is necessary to adapt agricultural practices in accordance with the frequent changes and in response to the actual impacts. Though resilient agricultural practices have been introduced, an assessment of the socio-economic profile will help better understand the compatibility amidst the given conditions. For that matter, this research was conducted in the Ganjam district of Odisha among 200 respondents (100 men and 100 women farmers) using an ex-post facto design to determine how different factors affect the extent of CRA practices in Odisha. The findings revealed women to be more actively involved as compared to men farmers in training exposure and social participation. It is also seen that women had poor access to education as compared to men farmers, though it is found that innovativeness had almost equal importance for both the categories. Some of the major challenges of this study are that the farmers had scarce knowledge about the potential CRA practices that could be adopted in the area and are still in the process of realizing the importance of combining their local knowledge with modern agricultural practices and technologies. Therefore, this paper stresses on the importance of personal, economic, and social profiles while also elaborating on their compatibility in adopting new CRA techniques.','Climate-resilient agriculture, Socio-economic profiles, Innovativeness, Adaptation','The study concludes that most of the respondents (72.00%) are middle-aged and the educational qualifications of men have obtained higher degrees as compared to women farmers, which shows that women should be encouraged to more education. The socio-economic profile of farmers becomes important in designing and development of various mitigation and adaptation techniques for farmers at grass root level. From the fact and findings, it can also be concluded that majority of farmers possess small landholding, educated up to high school and farming being their main occupation.Though men are less exposed to training programs and are less socially active, they are practically more experienced in the field as compared to women farmers.Women farmers are more socially active as they are members of SHGs, and also take interest in participating in different training programs, along with contacting development agents and also utilizing the information sources. Overall, it was observed that knowledge about climate change and resilient practices, and social and economic compatibility play a vital role in adopting new techniques.As a result, it is necessary for policymakers to examine the socio-economic profile of farmers before devising important adaptation and mitigation policies to deal with changing climatic conditions.','INTRODUCTION\r\nWith the onset of fluctuating climatic conditions, the agriculture and the lives of the farmers across the nation have taken a toll, thereby destroying their livelihoods primarily. Research findings have shown that agriculture in developing countries is currently being affected by climate change (FAO, 2007; IFPRI, 2009). In recent years, farmers in the state have been faced with the problems of crop failure, or low yield arising from climate variability particularly the delayed onset of rains and the increasing length and frequency of dry spells during the growing season. In addition, the problem of flood, high temperature and incidences of pests and diseases have also aggravated the famers’ loss which consequently increase the incidence of poverty and malnutrition in the state (Adebayo et al., 2012). Over the years farmers have adopted measures such as a shift in crop rotation in accordance to the changing climate, thus growing less water-intensive crops, growing high-yielding variety seeds, etc. (Rupan and Ansari, 2016). Altering with the new practices is not an easy affair, it involves certain influences to be effective in the long run. (Jasna, 2014) stated that in the absence of planned adaptation, the consequences of long-term climate change could be severe on the livelihood security of the poor. Therefore, it is of utmost importance to enhance the resilience of Indian agriculture to climate change.\r\nResilience is the tendency to overcome a particular situation, that is extremely important to bring in advanced technologies that are compatible with a given situation and can be adjusted ecologically, socially, and economically to respond to actual impacts. Perennial crop cultivation is difficult to relocate when a region\'s climate changes owing to a variety of socio-economic issues such as extended re-establishment times, proximity to processing factories, labour availability and market accessibility (Glenn et al., 2014). Climate change and agriculture are inherently tied in numerous ways, as climate change is the primary cause of biotic and abiotic pressures, both of which have negative consequences for a region\'s agriculture (Raza et al., 2019). It is thus crucial to introduce climate-resilient agricultural practices to cope with this unsteady condition and rebuild back better.\r\nIPCC conceives vulnerability as degree of a system which liable and incompetent to cope with, adverse effects of climate variability and extremes (Parry et al., 2007). Vulnerability is defined as an internal risk factor of a subject or system exposed to a hazard that corresponds to the subject\'s or system\'s intrinsic inclination to be impacted or exposed to damage (Cardona, 2003). Vulnerability is the destruction from exposure to stresses connected with environmental and social change with absence of dimensions to adapt (Adger, 2006). It describes a community\'s physical, economic, and social susceptibility to destruction in the event of hazardous natural or manmade circumstances (Emrich and Cutter 2011). This research aims to comprehend how the adaptation of CRA practices could be more effective when it is compatible according to personal, economic, and social profiles. Adaptation strives for well-managed natural resources, enhanced food security, social and human capital development, and strengthened institutional systems (Adger et al., 2003). Practically the efficacy, attitude, and perception of the farmers are decisive when it is to emphasizing adapting to a new condition. The fourth assessment report of the Inter-governmental Panel on Climate Change (IPCC) also notes that gender differences affect the vulnerability and adaptive capacity of women and men (Adger et al., 2007). After decades of being gender-blind, international climate negotiations for the first time recognised in December 2010 that gender is integral to actions on both mitigation and adaptation in the UNFCCC text.\r\nThe age group, educational qualification, farming experience, landholding, income, etc. play a major role in bringing in the changes. (Acevedo et al., 2020) reported similar findings from their study that the most important determinants of adoption of climate-resilient crops are the availability and effectiveness of extension services and outreach, education level of heads of households, including some awareness of climate change and adaptation measures, and farmers’ access to inputs, especially seeds and fertilizers. Intermediate and higher education in agriculture continues to play a decisive role in rural development and sustainable agricultural production. An increasingly interdependent world, however, is producing new challenges for institutions where agriculture is taught (Kabir, 1995). Over the years, the world has changed and, in any of the developing countries, agricultural education and training have failed to adapt and respond to the realities of rural societies (Mitchell, 1998). The nation\'s aims as it enters the twenty-first century are accelerated economic growth, human resource development, and self-sufficiency. Poverty reduction, rural development, and women\'s participation in all national activities will be at the heart of all efforts to meet those goals. Creating a well-educated, healthy nation capable of facing the challenges ahead up to the difficulties of a rapidly changing technological context global society has progressed.\r\nThese days, education is an increasing trend and unemployment rate amongst primary and secondary graduates are higher (Alam and Shahjamal, 2008). So currently, many primary, secondary and even tertiary graduates without jobs are forced to join as workforce to agriculture sector (Alam et al., 2009). As the childhood of these graduates was passed under the shadow of school building, they cannot cope with heavy sun, rain and thunder involved with the cultivation process at field under the open sky. This motivates them to search an alternative form of agriculture. This may provide them employment allowing country to earn a little foreign currency, but production of food and crops are seriously being affected resulting food crisis for the country (Alamand Khalifa, 2009). Smallholder implementation of CRA practices were challenging, owing to the huge capital and intensive extension requirement, market linkage and local institutions for governance (Gentle and Maraseni, 2012; Howden et al., 2007; Issaka et al., 2016). Rural areas also face labor shortages as a result of migration. As certain farming practices demand high labor inputs, the initiation of farmers’ groups may contribute to labor being exchanged between farm households.\r\nMETHODOLOGY\r\nThis study was conducted using an Ex-post facto design to assess the socio-economic profile of the men and women farmers in adapting the climate-resilient agricultural practices. The research was conducted purposively in November 2021, at two villages i.e Chikarada and Sasanpadar from Brahmapur Subdivision of Ganjam District as those villages were exposed to some climate-resilient agricultural practices. A sample of 200 respondents (100 males and 100 females) respectively was selected for the study. A structured schedule was constructed to collect the information on the respondents\' personal, economic, and social profiles on CRA practices from their homes, fields, etc through personal interviews. The collected data were analyzed using various statistical tools like Range, Average, Frequency, and Percentage and they have been categorized based on the Ranges and Mean±S.D. One of the important limitations of this study must be that although the research identifies good practices, co-benefits, and interactions between different CRA strategies, the application of synergies might not be possible under all climate and socio-economic scenarios, and across other production sectors. This is because mitigation and adaptation practices may be site specific, and influenced by the adaptive capacity of farmers (Lipper et al., 2014). The development of CRA practice should also consider market risk; access to financial institutions, extension services and farm inputs; and improved governance of services through farmers’ organizations to enhance their effectiveness (Gentleand Maraseni, 2012; Howden et al., 2007; Issaka et al., 2016).\r\nRESULT AND DISCUSSIONS\r\nFor conducting this research, twelve parameters had been taken to assess the socio-economic profile of the farm respondents. These parameters had been classified as Personal, Economic, and Social Profiles.\r\n•Personal Profile. The personal profile serves as an introduction to the respondents, it defines one’s private information, emotions, perceptions, and thoughts. For our study, we had taken Age, Education, Farming Experience, Type of Family, Size of Family, and Innovativeness under the personal profile.\r\nThe respondent’s ages had been categorized as Young, Middle, and Old, out of which 75.00 percent and 69.00 percent are middle-aged males and females respectively who fall under 36-60 years of age, followed by the young mass (10.00%)males and (15.00%) females aged between 18-25 years, which shows involvement of young women more than men in climate-resilient activities. Similar findings have been reported by Raghuvanshi et al. (2018) that the majority of the respondent (54.5%) belonged to the middle age (46 to 67 years) group followed by 31 percent of those who belonged to the young age(less than 46 years) category.\r\nEducational qualifications had been divided into eight categories based on the level of education achieved by the respondents. The findings revealed that (18.00%) of men and (27.00%) of women have not received any formal education and they are unable to read and write, though 39.00 percent and 27.00 percent had attained primary education. Overall, it was observed that (23.50%) and (13.50%) had acquired middle and high school education respectively. However, only 1.00 percent of females had attained post-graduation, which depicts poor access to higher education.\r\nThe findings of farming experience revealed that (90.00%) of male and (74.00%) of female farmers had more than 5 years of experience in climate-resilient farming activities, whereas only 3.00 percent of female farmers are newly experiencing the climate-resilient farming activities, which shows male domination in farm works. The findings of the study can also be interlinked with that of Shankara et al. (2013) wherein it was found that the majority of the farmers had high levels of perception about climate change parameters such as temperature, rainfall and dry spells.\r\nFor the present study, the family has been divided into Type and Size, the Type of family had been further classified as Nuclear, Joint, and Extended. The size of the family had been categorized as Small, Medium, and Large depending upon the number of family members. The findings of Table 1 depict that 51.00 percent of men and 62.00 percent of women belong to nuclear families, followed by 47.00 percent and 34.00 percent respectively as joint families. Overall, only 3.00 percent belong to extended family. The size of the family was categorized as Small, Medium, and Large based on the number of family members. The findings revealed that 82.00 percent and 77.00 percent of male and female respondents belong to medium family size, followed by 9.00 percent and 13.00 percent of male and female respondents from small families respectively. However overall, only 9.50 percent belong to large families.\r\nInnovativeness in the present study means the idea or perception of introducing new ideas or the ability to adopt something new. We had categorized it as Low, Medium, and High. The findings show that (88.00%) of men and (76.00%) of women respondents had shown a medium level of innovativeness, followed by 12.00 percent and 11.00 percent of male and female respondents showing a low level of innovativeness.\r\n•Economic Profile. Economics deals with individuals, businesses, governments, and nations making choices about how to allocate resources. For our study, the economic profile has been taken under two segments i.e land ownership and the respondents’ annual income, which makes them independent and responsible to take decisions on adapting climate-resilient practices.\r\n\r\nLandholding is defined as the total area owned by the respondents. The findings from Table 2 (A) show that 82.00 percent of men and 71.00 percent of women farmers come under the medium landholding range, followed by (13.00%) and (19.00%) in the large landholding range. Overall, only 7.50 percent of the respondents are small landholders.\r\nThe annual income of respondents depicts the earnings from different sources including farming activities on per year basis. The findings reveal that most of the respondents i.e 83.00 percent and 62.00 percent male and females respectively fall under the medium-level income range. Whereas, 19.00 percent of females and none of the males fall under the low-income range. And overall (18.00%) belong to the high-income range section. On the basis of the findings it is suggested that socio-economic status of the farmers which are yet to adopt CRA practices can be encouraged and improved by adoption of similar practices that impart technical knowledge about the same by increasing their education level, social participation, awareness and innovativeness about the same. \r\n•Social Profile. Social profiles deal with how well an individual relates with society, how they can contribute to the community, and their involvement as members. Social profiles or landholder classifications are typically being developed by rural sociologists and rural development personnel to better understand the variety of social (e.g. level of education, social networks) and economic (e.g. farm income, debt level) circumstances and value systems within a rural community, how this variation affects their land management attitudes and behaviour (e.g. uptake of a new technology), and how the differences subsequently lead to variation in the impacts of policies and programs across the community (Bohnet, 2008). For our study to understand the respondents’ social profile, various parameters like Training Exposure, Information Source Utilization, Contact with Development Agents, and Social Participation had been taken into consideration.\r\nThe training exposure of the respondents shows that about 79.00 percent of men and 83.00 percent of women have been actively attending the training and workshops related to climate-resilient practices. Whereas, (21.00%) men and (17.00%) women had not been part of any training programs, which shows that women are more enthusiastic about participating and learning new technologies rather than men.\r\nInformation Source Utilization shows the frequency of respondents’ exposure to the reading materials, and their access to television, radio, and AV messages on climate-resilient practices. The findings from Table 3(B) revealed that 65.00 percent of men and 66.00 percent of women have shown a medium level of utilization of the sources followed by (17.00%) of men and (19.00%) of women having low utilization of the information sources.\r\nContact with development agents shows the frequency of dealings between the respondents and NGO members, Farmers Friend, Panchayat members, KVK officials, ADO, etc. The findings revealed that (66.00%) of men and (62.00%) of women have medium contact, followed by 17.00 percent and 20.00 percent of men and women having low contact with the development agents. But overall 35.00 percent of respondents had a higher frequency of contact with development agents.\r\nThe emphasis of the respondents is to be involved in community-based activities, interpersonal interactions, resource sharing, active participation, and individual satisfaction. For our study, the respondents were given scores based on their participation, and the findings revealed that overall, there is low participation (76.50%). Further, it was observed that more women (26.00%) were active socially as compared to men (16.00%).','Angelina Patro, Pradip Kumar Banerjee and Debasmita Nayak (2022). Assessing the Socio-Economic Profile of Farmers in Adapting CRA Practices, Odisha- A Comparative Approach. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 14(2): 1004-1009.'),(4993,'125','D2 Statistical Analysis of Tuber Yield and its Contributing Traits in Winged Bean [Psophocarpus tetragonolobus (L.) Dc.]','Achal Kant*, Shoumik Saha, Sudip Sarkar, Dharmendra Singh Lagoriya, Sujay Kumar Paul and Rajeshwar Nandan\r\n','173 D2 Statistical Analysis of Tuber Yield and its Contributing Traits in Winged Bean [Psophocarpus tetragonolobus _L._ Dc.] Achal Kant.pdf','',4,'Winged bean is a multipurpose protein rich underutilized pulse species which has a wider genetic potentiality, to be utilized as a source of quality food. But information regarding genetic diversity of winged bean tuber is limited. Therefore, present investigation was carried out to determine the genetic divergence for tuber yield and its contributing traits in twenty two genotypes of winged bean. The research trial was conducted at vegetable research farm of Banaras Hindu University, Varanasi, Uttar Pradesh during kharif season of 2015-2016 with three replications. Each plot had one row of 5m length with 50cm plant to plant and 75cm row to row distance. The vegetative & reproductive pruning were done to raise a good tuber yield. Observations on thirteen quantitative traits and four qualitative traits were recorded in five pruned plants from each genotype per replication. The replicated mean data was used in WINDOSTAT statistical package. The results revealed that, there was a significant (P<0.01) difference between genotypes for all the seventeen traits under studied. D2 analysis partitioned the twenty-two genotypes of winged bean into five clusters, indicating the presence of genetic diversity. The cluster IV, II and I had the higher number of genotypes, 9, 6 and 5 respectively. Cluster III and V consist of only single genotype, indicating their distinctness among themselves and also from other genotypes. The higher inter-cluster distance was observed between clusters IV and V (519.48) and the higher intra-cluster distance was found in cluster IV (216.80). Cluster V exhibited maximum mean performance for days to pod initiation, days to tuber harvesting, tuber length, tuber breadth, tuber dry matter percent, total sugar content in tuber, tuber yield per plant. Intercrossing among the genotypes belonging to clusters IV and V was suggested to obtaining transgressive/desirable segregants for developing high yielding cultivars with better quality. ','Winged bean, Tuber, Genetic divergence, Clusters, Genotypes','Analysis of variance exhibited highly significant differences among the genotypes for all seventeen traits under study. This studied indicate there is ample scope for selection of promising genotypes from present set of germplasms for tuber yield improvement. Mahalanobis’s D2 statistics was carried out in order to assess the genetic divergence among all the genotypes. Based on the inter-se genetic distance, twenty two winged bean genotypes could be grouped into five different clusters. Cluster IV, II and I contains 9, 6 and 5 accessions respectively, while clusters III and V contained only one genotype, indicating their distinctness among themselves and also from other genotypes under investigation. The intracluster distance was highest is 216.80 in cluster IV followed by cluster II and they also exhibited 2nd best inter cluster distance is 417.59 between them. The highest intercluster distance is 519.48 was found between cluster IV and V followed by cluster II and IV (417.59). On the basis of per se performance, Cluster V exhibited maximum mean value for days to 1st pod initiation, days to tuber harvesting, tuber length, tuber breadth, tuber dry matter, total sugar content in tuber, tuber yield per plant. Hybridization among the genotypes belonging to clusters IV (Ambika WB-11-2, RWB-15, IC-178292, Ambika WB-13-6, Ambika-13-5, Ambika-13-4, EC-178309, Ambika WB-13-1 and RWB-13) and V (RMDWB-1) was suggested to obtaining transgressive/ desirable \r\nsegregants for developing high yielding cultivars with better quality in winged bean. The relative contribution of tuber traits to total divergence in this study indicated that total sugar content in tuber, tuber breadth, tuber dry matter percent and tuber crude protein percent had highest contribution towards total divergence. Therefore, selection of genotypes would be more effective based on the above traits.\r\n','INTRODUCTION \r\nThe world population are increasing day by day with fluctuate climate, and millions of people in the world are suffering from malnutrition and hunger. However, mostly half of the world population consumed major three crops such as maize, rice and wheat, yet these cereal grains are relatively poor in quality protein and some micronutrients. Therefore, pulses complement cereals in the diet (Foyer et al., 2016); they provide considerable protein with essential amino acids and micronutrients, and serve as a substitute for animal protein when this is unavailable (Tharanathan and Mahadevamma 2003). In addition to nutritious value, legumes have ability to fix atmospheric nitrogen and improve the soil fertility gradient for subsequent crops (Peoples et al., 1995). Therefore, research is needed into a such type of plant species which has a wide genetic potentiality to fight against malnutrition and hidden hunger of the community and capable to grow under stressful or suboptimal conditions (Campbell et al., 2016). These problems may be solved by some underutilized plant species. Several legumes crops are described as underutilized or orphan crops, i.e., crops that are locally consumed, but essentially absent in international trade and never received any appreciable research effort (Cullis and Kunert 2017). \r\n\r\nWinged bean [Psophocarpus tertagonolobus (L.) DC] is a such type of multipurpose protein rich underutilized legume species which has a wider genetic potentiality, to be utilized as a source of quality food under climate change decade (Sriwichai et al., 2021). According to Jane E. Brody (1982), winged bean hailed as a potent weapon against malnutrition. Winged bean is a twining annual as well as perennial herb belongs to the family Fabaceae. Chromosome number 2n=2x=18 have been recorded (Khan 1976, Haq and Smartt 1977, Harder 1992). Every part of winged bean such as tubers, young pods, leaves, flowers and seeds are edible and rich in protein, amino acids, oils, vitamins and minerals (Claydon 1978, Hettiarachchy and Kantha 1982). According to Land et al. (1981), its roots differ from soybeans and other legumes in that they generally do not require artificial inoculation with specific stains of Rhizobium for fixation of atmospheric nitrogen into the soil. \r\nAn extraordinary feature in many cultivars of winged bean is that it produces tuberous roots like sweet potatoes, but are much richer in protein (3-15percent) with combination of carbohydrate (27.2- 30.5 percent) than potatoes, sweet potato, cassava and yam (Karikari 1978; Chandel and Pant 1984; Adegboyega et al. 2019). Its tubers have a pleasant and slightly sweet taste, ivory white flesh and firm texture resembling an apple. It can be consumed by boiled, steamed, fried, roasted and made into chips. The winged bean tubers are a very popular and highly acceptable food in Myanmar, Indonesia and Northern Ghana village population (Karikari 1978; Sriwichai et al. 2021). In India also tribal people in Tripura, Manipur, Mizoram and some adjoining areas of Assam, consume tuberous roots of winged bean in their diet. \r\nAlthough, very little information available regarding divergence in winged bean germplasm especially for tuber producing genotypes. Until now winged bean never received any appreciable research effort and funding, especially for its yield improvement. Wide genetic diversity is the pre-requisite tools for genetic improvement of any crop and helps the plant breeder in choosing the diverse parents for purposeful hybridization programme. Therefore, realizing the importance and present need of this underutilized legume, the present experiment was conducted to study the genetic divergence (D2 analysis) and clustering pattern in twenty two winged bean genotypes.\r\nMATERIALS AND METHODS\r\nThe experimental material consists of twenty two genotypes of winged bean. These were collected from Birsa Agriculture University, Ranchi (Jharkhand) and Department of Genetics and Plant Breeding, I. Ag. Sc., BHU, Varanasi. List of winged bean genotypes used in the study are listed below in Table 1.\r\nThe research trial was conducted in a Randomized block design with three replications at Vegetable Research Farm in Banaras Hindu University, Varanasi, Uttar Pradesh during kharif season 2015-2016. The crop is grown on a field for the production of tubers; each genotype was sown in single row plots the seeds are normally sown 5-7.5 cm deep on ridges and earthed up after 15 to 20 cm seedling emergence. Each plot was consisted of one row of 5 m length with plant to plant and row to row distance being 50cm × 75cm, respectively. In each genotype per replication wise five plants randomly get to vegetative pruning (main branch and subsequent branch remove the shoot tip when plants attain height up to 1m) and reproductive pruning (from each peduncle or cluster all the flowers bud are removed except one which pod initiation has been started) to raise a good tuber yield. Tuber harvesting was done, when the all plant parts dried up to around 80percent. The total sugar content (mg/g), dry Matter (percent) and crude protein (percent) in tuber were estimated by using Anthrone method (Sadasivam and Manickam 1992, 1996); Micro-Kjeldahl’s and AOAC methods (AOAC1995; Sawhney and Singh 2000), respectively.\r\nThe pre and post-harvest observations based on thirteen quantitative traits such as days to flower initiation, days to 1st pod initiation, chlorophyll content at flower initiation (SPAD unit), chlorophyll content at 1st pod initiation (SPAD unit), Leaf Area Index (LAI) at 1st pod initiation, mature pods length (cm), mature pods width (cm), seeds per pod, 100 seed weight (g), days to tuber harvesting, tuber yield per plant (g), tuber length (cm), tuber breadth (cm), and four qualitative traits such as tuber moisture (percent), tuber dry matter (percent), tuber crude protein (percent) and total sugar content in tuber (mg/g) were recorded in five pruned plants selected at random from each genotype in each replication. The replicated mean data on seventeen tuber yield contributing traits were utilized for analysis of variance to test the significance for every character as per method given by Panse and Sukhatme (1967). Replicated data were used for D2 statistics to estimate the genetic diversity through methodology given by Mahalanobis (1936) and clustering of genotypes into different clusters was done as per procedure given by Rao (1952). Finally, D2 statistical analysis done by using WINDOSTAT version 9.2 statistical package at INDOSTAT services Hyderabad (Tiwari et al., 2016).\r\nRESULTS AND DISCUSSION\r\nMean square due to genotypes were exhibited highly significant difference at P<0.01 level for all the seventeen traits under studied indicating that there is an inherent genetic difference among the twenty two winged bean genotypes. Almost Similar type results noticed by Mahto and Dua (2009); Kushwaha et al. (2013); Sriwichai et al. 2021 in winged bean genotypes.\r\nAssessment of genetic diversity. Genetic divergence was studied based on Mahalanobis D2 Statistics. To study genetic divergence in 22 genotypes of winged bean data were subjected to D2 analysis. Analysis employed Tocher method so as to group the genotypes into different clusters.\r\nGroup constellations. The accessions were grouped into five clusters. Cluster IV was the largest with 9 genotypes, followed by cluster II consisted 6 genotypes, cluster I having 5 genotypes, and cluster III & Cluster V having 1 genotype (Table 2, Fig. 1), indicating the dispersion of genotypes under divergent clusters. Genotypes belonging to the same cluster would be less divergent hence selection of these genotypes for further improvement in the crop will not effective. Therefore, hybridization involving genetically diverse parents belonging to different distant clusters would provide an opportunity to bring together gene constellations of diverse origin. Singh et al. (2002) by using Metroglyph analysis found divergence among 18 pure line genotypes derived from indigenous and exotic mixed population for ten traits in winged bean reported the strains were grouped into eight clusters. Mahto and Dua (2009) reported genetic divergence in 30 indigenous and exotic collections of winged bean grouped into nine clusters. Kushwaha et al. (2013) by using Mahalanobis D2 statistics also reported genetic divergence among 26 germplasm lines of winged bean grouped into six clusters.\r\nInter and intra cluster distances among clusters. Detail insight into the diversity may help to select desirable genotypes for utilizing in breeding programmes, according to the objectives. The maximum intra cluster distance (D2-values) was found in cluster IV (216.80) followed by cluster II (175.60), cluster I (125.25), cluster III and cluster V (0.00). The highest inter cluster distance was found between clusters IV and V (519.48) which was followed by cluster II and IV (417.59), cluster III and V (380.04), cluster I and V (372.85) and cluster II and III (296.51) (Table 3, Fig. 2). Thus, crosses may be made between the genotypes of the cluster IV and V to obtain better segregants as these recorded highest inter cluster distance. Singh et al. (2002) by using Metroglyph analysis, reported intra cluster distances ranged from 0.00 to 55. 14 while maximum inter cluster distance (259.31) was found between cluster IV and VIII. Kushwaha et al. (2013) was also reported range of intra clusters distance from 70.24 to 213.25 while inter clusters distance range from 234.78 to 1283.39 in winged bean genotypes.\r\nIn the present set of accessions, based on the inter-cluster distances suitable accessions may be selected for undertaking a suitable hybridization programme. It is observed that the germplasm desirable for different traits belong to different clusters. Therefore, selection of diverse accessions with desirable traits, \r\nand utilizing them in multiple crossing programmes, is expected to be effective in accumulation of desirable genes in to the common genetic background. Thus, an improved germplasm can be developed by utilizing such character specific diverse accessions in winged bean.\r\nPerformance of different traits in clusters. The inter cluster means of different traits exhibited significant variation between the clusters (Table 4): days to flower initiation, chlorophyll at flower initiation, LAI at 1st pod initiation and mature pods width in cluster III; days to pod initiation, days to tuber harvesting, tuber yield per plant, tuber length, tuber breadth, tuber dry matter and total sugar content in cluster V; chlorophyll at 1st pod initiation, LAI at 1st pod initiation, mature pods length, seeds per pod, 100 seed weight in cluster IV; tuber moisture in cluster II; and tuber crude protein in cluster I exhibited maximum values while comparing between the clusters. In this way their clusters exhibited maximum value for these characters across the clusters and therefore may contribute toward the hybridization programme initiated for the improvement of these characters. \r\nContribution of different characters towards divergence. The relative ranking of different character components of D2 has been shown in the Table 5 which revealed that in all combinations of genotypes under study, the character total sugar content in tuber (mg/g) showed highest mean difference and therefore ranked first (82 times) on the basis of di values in each genotype and hence showed highest contribution percent is 35.50 followed by LAI at 1st pod initiation is 15.15, tuber breadth is 12.99,seeds per pod is 10.82, tuber dry matter is 8.23, mature pods width is 6.06, total crude protein is 4.76, chlorophyll at flower initiation is 4.33, chlorophyll at 1st pod initiation is 1.30, tuber length is 0.87 to the total divergence while days to flower initiation, day to 1st pod initiation, mature pod length, 100 seed weight, days to tuber harvesting, tuber yield per plant had no contribution towards divergence. Therefore, relatively simply inherited traits like total sugar content, tuber breadth, tuber crude protein, tuber dry matter, should be considered while choosing the parents from genetically diverse clusters. Kushwaha et al. (2013) was observed similar finding is that protein and sugars contributed maximum towards divergence among winged bean genotypes.\r\n','Achal Kant, Shoumik Saha, Sudip Sarkar, Dharmendra Singh Lagoriya, Sujay Kumar Paul and Rajeshwar Nandan (2022). D2 Statistical Analysis of Tuber Yield and Its Contributing Traits in Winged Bean [Psophocarpus tetragonolobus (L.) Dc.]. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 14(2): 1010-1015.'),(4994,'125','D2 Statistical Analysis of Tuber Yield and its Contributing Traits in Winged Bean [Psophocarpus tetragonolobus (L.) Dc.]','Achal Kant*, Shoumik Saha, Sudip Sarkar, Dharmendra Singh Lagoriya, Sujay Kumar Paul and Rajeshwar Nandan\r\n','173 D2 Statistical Analysis of Tuber Yield and its Contributing Traits in Winged Bean [Psophocarpus tetragonolobus _L._ Dc.pdf','',1,'Winged bean is a multipurpose protein rich underutilized pulse species which has a wider genetic potentiality, to be utilized as a source of quality food. But information regarding genetic diversity of winged bean tuber is limited. Therefore, present investigation was carried out to determine the genetic divergence for tuber yield and its contributing traits in twenty two genotypes of winged bean. The research trial was conducted at vegetable research farm of Banaras Hindu University, Varanasi, Uttar Pradesh during kharif season of 2015-2016 with three replications. Each plot had one row of 5m length with 50cm plant to plant and 75cm row to row distance. The vegetative & reproductive pruning were done to raise a good tuber yield. Observations on thirteen quantitative traits and four qualitative traits were recorded in five pruned plants from each genotype per replication. The replicated mean data was used in WINDOSTAT statistical package. The results revealed that, there was a significant (P<0.01) difference between genotypes for all the seventeen traits under studied. D2 analysis partitioned the twenty-two genotypes of winged bean into five clusters, indicating the presence of genetic diversity. The cluster IV, II and I had the higher number of genotypes, 9, 6 and 5 respectively. Cluster III and V consist of only single genotype, indicating their distinctness among themselves and also from other genotypes. The higher inter-cluster distance was observed between clusters IV and V (519.48) and the higher intra-cluster distance was found in cluster IV (216.80). Cluster V exhibited maximum mean performance for days to pod initiation, days to tuber harvesting, tuber length, tuber breadth, tuber dry matter percent, total sugar content in tuber, tuber yield per plant. Intercrossing among the genotypes belonging to clusters IV and V was suggested to obtaining transgressive/desirable segregants for developing high yielding cultivars with better quality. ','Winged bean, Tuber, Genetic divergence, Clusters, Genotypes','Analysis of variance exhibited highly significant differences among the genotypes for all seventeen traits under study. This studied indicate there is ample scope for selection of promising genotypes from present set of germplasms for tuber yield improvement. Mahalanobis’s D2 statistics was carried out in order to assess the genetic divergence among all the genotypes. Based on the inter-se genetic distance, twenty two winged bean genotypes could be grouped into five different clusters. Cluster IV, II and I contains 9, 6 and 5 accessions respectively, while clusters III and V contained only one genotype, indicating their distinctness among themselves and also from other genotypes under investigation. The intracluster distance was highest is 216.80 in cluster IV followed by cluster II and they also exhibited 2nd best inter cluster distance is 417.59 between them. The highest intercluster distance is 519.48 was found between cluster IV and V followed by cluster II and IV (417.59). On the basis of per se performance, Cluster V exhibited maximum mean value for days to 1st pod initiation, days to tuber harvesting, tuber length, tuber breadth, tuber dry matter, total sugar content in tuber, tuber yield per plant. Hybridization among the genotypes belonging to clusters IV (Ambika WB-11-2, RWB-15, IC-178292, Ambika WB-13-6, Ambika-13-5, Ambika-13-4, EC-178309, Ambika WB-13-1 and RWB-13) and V (RMDWB-1) was suggested to obtaining transgressive/ desirable \r\nsegregants for developing high yielding cultivars with better quality in winged bean. The relative contribution of tuber traits to total divergence in this study indicated that total sugar content in tuber, tuber breadth, tuber dry matter percent and tuber crude protein percent had highest contribution towards total divergence. Therefore, selection of genotypes would be more effective based on the above traits.\r\n','INTRODUCTION \r\nThe world population are increasing day by day with fluctuate climate, and millions of people in the world are suffering from malnutrition and hunger. However, mostly half of the world population consumed major three crops such as maize, rice and wheat, yet these cereal grains are relatively poor in quality protein and some micronutrients. Therefore, pulses complement cereals in the diet (Foyer et al., 2016); they provide considerable protein with essential amino acids and micronutrients, and serve as a substitute for animal protein when this is unavailable (Tharanathan and Mahadevamma 2003). In addition to nutritious value, legumes have ability to fix atmospheric nitrogen and improve the soil fertility gradient for subsequent crops (Peoples et al., 1995). Therefore, research is needed into a such type of plant species which has a wide genetic potentiality to fight against malnutrition and hidden hunger of the community and capable to grow under stressful or suboptimal conditions (Campbell et al., 2016). These problems may be solved by some underutilized plant species. Several legumes crops are described as underutilized or orphan crops, i.e., crops that are locally consumed, but essentially absent in international trade and never received any appreciable research effort (Cullis and Kunert 2017). \r\n\r\nWinged bean [Psophocarpus tertagonolobus (L.) DC] is a such type of multipurpose protein rich underutilized legume species which has a wider genetic potentiality, to be utilized as a source of quality food under climate change decade (Sriwichai et al., 2021). According to Jane E. Brody (1982), winged bean hailed as a potent weapon against malnutrition. Winged bean is a twining annual as well as perennial herb belongs to the family Fabaceae. Chromosome number 2n=2x=18 have been recorded (Khan 1976, Haq and Smartt 1977, Harder 1992). Every part of winged bean such as tubers, young pods, leaves, flowers and seeds are edible and rich in protein, amino acids, oils, vitamins and minerals (Claydon 1978, Hettiarachchy and Kantha 1982). According to Land et al. (1981), its roots differ from soybeans and other legumes in that they generally do not require artificial inoculation with specific stains of Rhizobium for fixation of atmospheric nitrogen into the soil. \r\nAn extraordinary feature in many cultivars of winged bean is that it produces tuberous roots like sweet potatoes, but are much richer in protein (3-15percent) with combination of carbohydrate (27.2- 30.5 percent) than potatoes, sweet potato, cassava and yam (Karikari 1978; Chandel and Pant 1984; Adegboyega et al. 2019). Its tubers have a pleasant and slightly sweet taste, ivory white flesh and firm texture resembling an apple. It can be consumed by boiled, steamed, fried, roasted and made into chips. The winged bean tubers are a very popular and highly acceptable food in Myanmar, Indonesia and Northern Ghana village population (Karikari 1978; Sriwichai et al. 2021). In India also tribal people in Tripura, Manipur, Mizoram and some adjoining areas of Assam, consume tuberous roots of winged bean in their diet. \r\nAlthough, very little information available regarding divergence in winged bean germplasm especially for tuber producing genotypes. Until now winged bean never received any appreciable research effort and funding, especially for its yield improvement. Wide genetic diversity is the pre-requisite tools for genetic improvement of any crop and helps the plant breeder in choosing the diverse parents for purposeful hybridization programme. Therefore, realizing the importance and present need of this underutilized legume, the present experiment was conducted to study the genetic divergence (D2 analysis) and clustering pattern in twenty two winged bean genotypes.\r\nMATERIALS AND METHODS\r\nThe experimental material consists of twenty two genotypes of winged bean. These were collected from Birsa Agriculture University, Ranchi (Jharkhand) and Department of Genetics and Plant Breeding, I. Ag. Sc., BHU, Varanasi. List of winged bean genotypes used in the study are listed below in Table 1.\r\nThe research trial was conducted in a Randomized block design with three replications at Vegetable Research Farm in Banaras Hindu University, Varanasi, Uttar Pradesh during kharif season 2015-2016. The crop is grown on a field for the production of tubers; each genotype was sown in single row plots the seeds are normally sown 5-7.5 cm deep on ridges and earthed up after 15 to 20 cm seedling emergence. Each plot was consisted of one row of 5 m length with plant to plant and row to row distance being 50cm × 75cm, respectively. In each genotype per replication wise five plants randomly get to vegetative pruning (main branch and subsequent branch remove the shoot tip when plants attain height up to 1m) and reproductive pruning (from each peduncle or cluster all the flowers bud are removed except one which pod initiation has been started) to raise a good tuber yield. Tuber harvesting was done, when the all plant parts dried up to around 80percent. The total sugar content (mg/g), dry Matter (percent) and crude protein (percent) in tuber were estimated by using Anthrone method (Sadasivam and Manickam 1992, 1996); Micro-Kjeldahl’s and AOAC methods (AOAC1995; Sawhney and Singh 2000), respectively.\r\nThe pre and post-harvest observations based on thirteen quantitative traits such as days to flower initiation, days to 1st pod initiation, chlorophyll content at flower initiation (SPAD unit), chlorophyll content at 1st pod initiation (SPAD unit), Leaf Area Index (LAI) at 1st pod initiation, mature pods length (cm), mature pods width (cm), seeds per pod, 100 seed weight (g), days to tuber harvesting, tuber yield per plant (g), tuber length (cm), tuber breadth (cm), and four qualitative traits such as tuber moisture (percent), tuber dry matter (percent), tuber crude protein (percent) and total sugar content in tuber (mg/g) were recorded in five pruned plants selected at random from each genotype in each replication. The replicated mean data on seventeen tuber yield contributing traits were utilized for analysis of variance to test the significance for every character as per method given by Panse and Sukhatme (1967). Replicated data were used for D2 statistics to estimate the genetic diversity through methodology given by Mahalanobis (1936) and clustering of genotypes into different clusters was done as per procedure given by Rao (1952). Finally, D2 statistical analysis done by using WINDOSTAT version 9.2 statistical package at INDOSTAT services Hyderabad (Tiwari et al., 2016).\r\nRESULTS AND DISCUSSION\r\nMean square due to genotypes were exhibited highly significant difference at P<0.01 level for all the seventeen traits under studied indicating that there is an inherent genetic difference among the twenty two winged bean genotypes. Almost Similar type results noticed by Mahto and Dua (2009); Kushwaha et al. (2013); Sriwichai et al. 2021 in winged bean genotypes.\r\nAssessment of genetic diversity. Genetic divergence was studied based on Mahalanobis D2 Statistics. To study genetic divergence in 22 genotypes of winged bean data were subjected to D2 analysis. Analysis employed Tocher method so as to group the genotypes into different clusters.\r\nGroup constellations. The accessions were grouped into five clusters. Cluster IV was the largest with 9 genotypes, followed by cluster II consisted 6 genotypes, cluster I having 5 genotypes, and cluster III & Cluster V having 1 genotype (Table 2, Fig. 1), indicating the dispersion of genotypes under divergent clusters. Genotypes belonging to the same cluster would be less divergent hence selection of these genotypes for further improvement in the crop will not effective. Therefore, hybridization involving genetically diverse parents belonging to different distant clusters would provide an opportunity to bring together gene constellations of diverse origin. Singh et al. (2002) by using Metroglyph analysis found divergence among 18 pure line genotypes derived from indigenous and exotic mixed population for ten traits in winged bean reported the strains were grouped into eight clusters. Mahto and Dua (2009) reported genetic divergence in 30 indigenous and exotic collections of winged bean grouped into nine clusters. Kushwaha et al. (2013) by using Mahalanobis D2 statistics also reported genetic divergence among 26 germplasm lines of winged bean grouped into six clusters.\r\nInter and intra cluster distances among clusters. Detail insight into the diversity may help to select desirable genotypes for utilizing in breeding programmes, according to the objectives. The maximum intra cluster distance (D2-values) was found in cluster IV (216.80) followed by cluster II (175.60), cluster I (125.25), cluster III and cluster V (0.00). The highest inter cluster distance was found between clusters IV and V (519.48) which was followed by cluster II and IV (417.59), cluster III and V (380.04), cluster I and V (372.85) and cluster II and III (296.51) (Table 3, Fig. 2). Thus, crosses may be made between the genotypes of the cluster IV and V to obtain better segregants as these recorded highest inter cluster distance. Singh et al. (2002) by using Metroglyph analysis, reported intra cluster distances ranged from 0.00 to 55. 14 while maximum inter cluster distance (259.31) was found between cluster IV and VIII. Kushwaha et al. (2013) was also reported range of intra clusters distance from 70.24 to 213.25 while inter clusters distance range from 234.78 to 1283.39 in winged bean genotypes.\r\nIn the present set of accessions, based on the inter-cluster distances suitable accessions may be selected for undertaking a suitable hybridization programme. It is observed that the germplasm desirable for different traits belong to different clusters. Therefore, selection of diverse accessions with desirable traits, \r\nand utilizing them in multiple crossing programmes, is expected to be effective in accumulation of desirable genes in to the common genetic background. Thus, an improved germplasm can be developed by utilizing such character specific diverse accessions in winged bean.\r\nPerformance of different traits in clusters. The inter cluster means of different traits exhibited significant variation between the clusters (Table 4): days to flower initiation, chlorophyll at flower initiation, LAI at 1st pod initiation and mature pods width in cluster III; days to pod initiation, days to tuber harvesting, tuber yield per plant, tuber length, tuber breadth, tuber dry matter and total sugar content in cluster V; chlorophyll at 1st pod initiation, LAI at 1st pod initiation, mature pods length, seeds per pod, 100 seed weight in cluster IV; tuber moisture in cluster II; and tuber crude protein in cluster I exhibited maximum values while comparing between the clusters. In this way their clusters exhibited maximum value for these characters across the clusters and therefore may contribute toward the hybridization programme initiated for the improvement of these characters. \r\nContribution of different characters towards divergence. The relative ranking of different character components of D2 has been shown in the Table 5 which revealed that in all combinations of genotypes under study, the character total sugar content in tuber (mg/g) showed highest mean difference and therefore ranked first (82 times) on the basis of di values in each genotype and hence showed highest contribution percent is 35.50 followed by LAI at 1st pod initiation is 15.15, tuber breadth is 12.99,seeds per pod is 10.82, tuber dry matter is 8.23, mature pods width is 6.06, total crude protein is 4.76, chlorophyll at flower initiation is 4.33, chlorophyll at 1st pod initiation is 1.30, tuber length is 0.87 to the total divergence while days to flower initiation, day to 1st pod initiation, mature pod length, 100 seed weight, days to tuber harvesting, tuber yield per plant had no contribution towards divergence. Therefore, relatively simply inherited traits like total sugar content, tuber breadth, tuber crude protein, tuber dry matter, should be considered while choosing the parents from genetically diverse clusters. Kushwaha et al. (2013) was observed similar finding is that protein and sugars contributed maximum towards divergence among winged bean genotypes.\r\n','Achal Kant, Shoumik Saha, Sudip Sarkar, Dharmendra Singh Lagoriya, Sujay Kumar Paul and Rajeshwar Nandan (2022). D2 Statistical Analysis of Tuber Yield and Its Contributing Traits in Winged Bean [Psophocarpus tetragonolobus (L.) Dc.]. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 14(2): 1010-1015.'),(4995,'125','Management of Early Blight of Tomato (Solanum lycopersicum Mill.) Incited by Alternaria solani through Micronutrients (in vitro and in vivo)','Ranjana Meena*, Shailesh Godika, Pinki Devi Yadav, Kewal Chand and Anuradha Jajoriya','174 Management of Early Blight of Tomato _Solanum lycopersicum Mill._ Incited by Alternaria solani through Micronutrients _in vitro and in vivo_ Ranjana Meena.pdf','',1,'Early blight caused by Alternaria solani is a serious disease of Tomato (Solanum lycopersicum L., syn. = lycopersicon esculentum Mill.). Five micronutrients Zinc (Zinc sulphate); Boron (Borax); Copper(Copper sulphate); Manganese (Manganese sulphate); Iron (Ferrus sulphate) were tested at 250 ppm, 500 ppm, 1000 ppm and 1500 ppm concentrations to inhibit the mycelial growth of A. solani under in vitro conditions. Among these Copper sulphate (38.75%) gave maximum inhibition of mycelial growth at each concentration followed by Zinc sulphate (35.26%). Study of micronutrient under in vivo condition through foliar spray resulted that Copper sulphate recorded minimum per cent disease intensity (30.26%) and maximum per cent disease control (49.83%) followed by Zinc sulphate with 32.58%, 45.98%, both PDI and per cent disease control, respectively. They found minimum disease severity of both White rust (31.3%) and Alternaria blight (26.03%). when ZnSO4 @15 kg/ha + borax @ 10 kg/ha + gypsum @250kg/ha applied as basal dose. ','Alternaria, Intensity, Inhibition, Spray, Micronutrient','Early blight caused by Alternaria solani is a serious disease of Tomato (Solanum lycopersicum L., syn. = lycopersicon esculentum Mill.). Under in vitro condition among five micronutrients Copper sulphate was found most effective in per cent inhibition of mycelial growth followed by Zinc sulphate. Effect of different micronutrients on disease were tested under in vivo condition in which Copper sulphate showed minimum per cent disease intensity and highest per cent disease control followed by Zinc sulphate.','INTRODUCTION\r\nTomato (Solanum lycopersicum L., syn.=lycopersicon esculentum Mill.) belongs to the family Solanaceae and it is the second most important vegetable crop next to potato and first among processing crops. Tomato is said to be the native-born of Tropical America. Among the fungal diseases of tomato crop mostly affected by early blight of tomato disease incurring loss under field and post harvest stages causing 50 to 86 percent reduction in fruit yield (Mathur and Shekhawat 1986). Every one percent increase in disease intensity can reduce yield by 1.36 per cent, and complete crop failure can occur when the disease is most severe yield loss up to 79 percent in India which is caused by Alternaria solani (Ellis and Martin 2013). Saha and Das (2012) reported losses in yield 0.75 to 0.77 tonnes/hectares with 1per cent increase in disease severity. It is common disease wherever tomatoes are grown and is one of the most destructive disease causing significant qualitative and quantitative losses at any stage of plant growth including fruit and seed production. The pathogen is also responsible for causing storage losses during transit. Disease is favored by warm temperature and extended period of leaf wetness from dew, rainfall and crowded plantation. The plants are more susceptible to infection by the disease during fruiting period (Momel and Pemezny 2006). In India, the disease is more severe during June to July sown crop than in the winter crop (Datar and Mayee 1981).\r\nMATERIAL AND METHODS\r\nEffect of micronutrients on mycelial growth of the pathogen (in vitro)\r\nThe test fungus was grown on PDA in which the desired quantity of five micro nutrients was incorporated to obtain four different concentrations viz., 250, 500, 1000 and 1500 ppm. Desired quantity of chemical was mixed thoroughly in 100 ml of Potato Dextrose Agar (PDA), just before pouring in sterilized petri plates and allowed to solidity. A mycelial disc of 5 mm diameter of the pathogen taken from a 7 day old culture with the help of sterilized cork borer was then placed at the centres of the Petri plate. The inoculated Petri plates were incubated at 25 ± 1°C temperature in BOD. Three replications were maintained for each treatment. Colony diameter was measured after 7 days of inoculation. Per cent growth inhibition was calculated as per formula (Bliss, 1934).\r\n\r\nPer cent growth inhibition = \r\nWhere,\r\nC = Diameter of the colony in check (average of both diagonals)\r\nT = Diameter of the colony in treatment (average of both diagonals)\r\nManagement of early blight of tomato through micronutrients (in vivo). The present investigation was carried out using following different micronutrients, i.e. Fe, Mn, Zn, Cu and B. First spray was given 10 days after transplanting (DAT) and second spray at 25 DAT.\r\nDisease intensity was recorded at 60 DAT as mentioned elsewhere.\r\nExperimental layout. The experiment was laid out in Completely Randomized Design (CRD) with five treatments and four replications (Fig. 1).\r\nExperimental details \r\nNumber of treatments: Five\r\nNumber of replications: Four\r\nTreatment Details: \r\nT1=Boron (Borax)\r\nT2=Iron (Ferrus sulphate)\r\nT3=Manganese (Manganese sulphate)\r\nT4=Copper(Copper sulphate)\r\nT5=Zinc (Zinc sulphate)\r\nRESULTS AND DISCUSSION\r\nEffect of micronutrients on mycelial growth and sporulation of pathogen (in vitro). The efficacy of five micronutrients (Table 3, Fig. 2 and Plate 1) were tested in vitro at four levels of concentrations viz., 250 ppm,500 ppm, 1000 ppm and 1500 ppm against mycelial growth and sporulation of Alternaria solani on Potato Dextrose Agar (PDA) by poisoned food technique. \r\nAmong five micronutrients viz., Zinc (Zinc sulphate); Boron (Borax); Copper (Copper sulphate); Manganese (Manganese sulphate); Iron (Ferrussulphate), Copper sulphate (CuSO4) was found most effective in inhibiting mycelial growth (16.15, 25.38, 49.72 and 63.76%) of Alternaria solani at 250 ppm, 500 ppm, 1000 ppm and 1500 ppm, respectively followed by Zinc sulphate (ZnSO4) (14.96, 22.74, 44.33 and 59.04%) over control. Borax was found least effective in inhibiting mycelial growth of Alternaria solani over control (90.00 mm). All the concentrations (250 ppm, 500 ppm, 1000 ppmand 1500 ppm) of Copper sulphate were found significantly superior over other treatments.\r\nAs we consider the results regarding with sporulation of pathogen Copper sulphate (CuSO4) which was most effective in inhibiting mycelial growth of the pathogen exhibited very poor sporulation (+) followed by Zinc sulphate (ZnSO4) poor sporulation under in vitro condition which showed poor sporulation (++). Borax that was least effective in inhibiting mycelial growth of the pathogen exhibited better sporulation (+++++) as compared to control in which excellent sporulation (++++++++) was occurred.\r\nFive micronutrients Zinc (Zinc sulphate); Boron (Borax); Copper(Copper sulphate); Manganese (Manganese sulphate); Iron (Ferrus sulphate) were tested at 250 ppm, 500 ppm, 1000 ppm and 1500 ppm concentrations by poisoned food technique to inhibit the mycelial growth of A. solani under in vitro conditions. Copper sulphate (38.75%) gave maximum inhibition of mycelial growth at each concentration followed by Zinc sulphate (35.26%). Similar work done by Shoaib et al. (2015) against phytopathogenic Leaf spot by Alternaria alternata. They assessed different doses of Copper metal in vitro in terms of growth and physiology. Amongst nitrate, chloride and sulphates salts of Copper, the maximum inhibition in radial growth of the fungus was observed with increase concentrations of Copper salts in order of: CuSO4> CuNO3>CuCl2. Kumar et al. (2015) observed K2SO4(1000ppm) showed maximum inhibition of mycelia growth (64.28%) of Alternaria brassicae in comparison to check followed by ZnSO4 (1000ppm) (63.88%) in their studies of effect of eco-friendly chemicals on Alternaria blight disease of mustard.\r\n \r\nManagement of early blight of tomato through micronutrients (in vivo). Effect of five micronutrients viz., Zinc (Zinc sulphate); Boron (Borax); Copper (Copper sulphate); Manganese (Manganese sulphate); Iron (Ferrus sulphate), were studied against Early blight of tomato under pots conditions through two foliar sprays (10 DAT and 25 DAT) at 0.5 % concentration. Results presented in Table 4 and Fig. 3 revealed that minimum disease intensity was observed with Copper sulphate (CuSO4) (30.26%) followed by Zinc sulphate (ZnSO4) (32.58%) as compared to control (60.32%). Maximum reduction in disease over control (per cent disease control) was observed with Copper sulphate (CuSO4) (49.83%) followed by Zinc sulphate (ZnSO4) (45.98%). Per cent disease intensity with Borax (48.37%) was found statistically at par with Manganese sulphate (MnSO4) (43.1%). Minimum reduction in disease (per cent disease control) was observed with Borax (19.81%).\r\nFive micronutrients were used in vivo conditions through foliar spray applications (0.5%) in a pot experiment. Among these, all micronutrients were able to reduce disease intensity significantly over control. In pot condition minimum disease intensity (30.26%) was recorded with Copper sulphate followed by Zinc sulphate (32.58%). Similar work done by Kumar et al. (2015) Alternaria brassicae causing Alternaria blight of Indian mustard. They reported significantly minimum disease index on leaf or check by foliar spray with 0.5% CaSO4 (23.58%) followed by 1.5% CaSO4 (24.00%). Rathi et al. (2015) evaluated role of soil application of micronutrients in defense to white rust and Alternaria blight in Indian mustard. They found minimum disease severity of both White rust (31.3%) and Alternaria blight (26.03%). when ZnSO4 @15 kg/ha + borax @ 10 kg/ha+ gypsum @250kg/ha applied as basal dose. \r\n','Ranjana Meena, Shailesh Godika, Pinki Devi Yadav, Kewal Chand and Anuradha Jajoriya (2022). Management of Early Blight of Tomato (Solanum lycopersicum Mill.) Incited by Alternaria solani through Micronutrients (in vitro and in vivo). Biological Forum – An International Journal, 14(2): 1016-1020.'),(4996,'125','To find out the Suitable Source of Nutrient Management and Optimum Level of Nutrients for Maximum Rice Production','Pooja Panthi*, P.S. Kulhare, Maya, Sangya Singh, Shubham Singh and Prachi Meravi','175 To find out the Suitable Source of Nutrient Management and Optimum Level of Nutrients for Maximum Rice Production Pooja Panthi.pdf','',1,'A field experiment was planned out during Kharif season 2019, at the research farm of Soil Science and Agricultural Chemistry, College of Agriculture, JNKVV, Jabalpur (M.P.), India to find out the suitable source of nutrient management and optimum level of nutrients for maximum rice production. The experiment was laid out in a split plot design with three replications. The result indicated that the application of chemicals significantly increased the plant height over integrated source of nutrient and organics. Whereas application of chemicals and integrated sources of nutrients significantly increased the dry matter production at all growth stages, number of effective tillers plant-1, number of panicles plant-1, number of grain panicle-1, panicle length, test weight, over organics. Application of 100, 150, 200% NPK and STV based NPK significantly increased plant height, number of effective tillers, number of panicles plant-1, number of grains panicles-1, panicle length, test weight, N, P and K over control. Application of 100, 150, 200% NPK and STV based NPK with chemicals and integrated sources of nutrients were found significantly superior to the same level of NPK over organics for plant height. While the application of 100, 150 and 200% NPK with chemicals and integrated sources of nutrients were found significant over organics at the same level of NPK dry matter production at 60 and 90 DAS. However, 100 and 150% NPK with chemicals was found significantly superior to integrated sources of nutrients for number of panicles.','Chemical, Organic, INM, Rice, Yield attributing characters, Straw and grain yield','The findings revealed that among the sources, the chemical source of nutrient found the best for maximum yield of rice. Among the levels of NPK, the application of 150% NPK was found best with respect to growth and yield attributing characters & yield of rice. The finding suggested that further research needed is take up more research on improving efficiency and minimizing losses of nutrients in rice.','INTRODUCTION\r\nRice (Oryza sativa) is one of the most important food crops of the world. Approximately 90% of the annual production is consumed in Asia because it is an excellent source of carbohydrate containing approximately 87% in grain, 7 to 8% protein, which has higher digestibility, biological value and more nutritious, possesses lower crude fiber and lower fat (1-2%). In India rice is grown in 43.30 M ha with annual production of 105.42 MT and productivity of 2412 kg ha-1. In Madhya Pradesh, it is grown in an area of 2.29 M ha with production of 4.23 MT and productivity of 1847 kg ha-1 (Anonymous, 2018). The food grain requirement in India is gradually increasing every year and it may reach around 350 MT due to increasing population pressure expected to 1.8 billion up to 2050. Presently, the productivity of rice in Madhya Pradesh is lower than national average. \r\nThe productivity of the crop is low compared to the potential of this crop. One possible way to enhance crop productivity by chemical fertilization, no doubt it enhanced the crop productivity due to their function of directly feeding the crop, which is the result of their high or complete solubility in water. It is recognized that fertilizers must be used properly and in the correct form and amount to suit the needs of the soil and the crop. An unsuitable balance of nutrients may adversely affect the yield and composition of the crop (Ogg, 1953). Due to injudicious uses of chemical input in agricultural system detonated the soil deterioration, food, environmental and human health hazards, chemical fertilization also increasing their prices 21st century (Jat et al., 2015).\r\nThe most desirable way to meet the food grain requirements is maintenance of good soil health and stability in production through use of organic and biological resources (Kulshreshtha, 2018) and they are very cost effective. But the release of organically bound nutrients in soil through biological activity is not necessarily synchronized with crop demands and occurs even at times when there is no crop growth. Nutrient additions on organic forms are designed to maintain soil fertility, but not to directly feed plants (Kirchmann and Ryan 2004). Inorganic fertilizers are crucial to increase crop yield, they are generally not affordable by small-scale subsistence farmers of developing world. On the other hand, the soil-derived as well as the externally-supplied organic sources of nutrients will not be sufficient to achieve high yield. Organic and inorganic fertilizers have different functions in soil and complement with each other. While input of organic manures contributes to the build-up of soil organic matter, increases the cation exchange capacity, supports soil structure, helps to chelate micronutrients, increases soil moisture retention, etc., inorganic fertilizers supply crops with nutrients at times when their demand is large. Keeping the above aspects in view the study was conducted to “To find out the suitable source of nutrient management and optimum level of nutrients for maximum rice production”.\r\nMATERIAL AND METHODS\r\nThe experiment was conducted on rice during Kharif 2019 in the field of Research Farm, Department of Soil Science and Agricultural Chemistry, JNKVV, Jabalpur which is situated in the South-Eastern part of M.P. at 23°10 North latitude, 79°58 East longitudes at an altitude of 393 meter above mean sea level. The experiment was laid out in split plot design with 3 replications, the main treatments were nutrient management, M1 = Chemical, M2 = Organic and M3 = INM. The sub plot treatments were levels of NPK, S1 = 0% NPK (Control), S2= 100%NPK (120-60-40 NPK), S3 = 150%NPK (180-90-60 NPK), S4 = 200%NPK (240-120-80 NPK) and S5 = STV based NPK (149-176-33 NPK). The climate of Jabalpur region is typically sub-humid, featured by hot dry summer and cool dry winter. The soil of the experimental field was Vertisol, belonged to Kheri series of the montmorillonitic hyperthermic family of Typic Haplusterts and popularly known as medium black soil. Rice variety Kranti was used as a test variety in this experiment. This variety was sown on 1 Aug 2019 and harvested at 23 Nov 2019. Five randomly selected plants were tagged in net plot area and growth and yield attributing parameters i.e plant height, numbers of tillers per plant, dry matter of plants at 40, 60, 90 DAS and at harvest, no. of panicle, no. of seeds per panicle, panicle length, test weight, grain and straw yield, harvest index were recorded.\r\nStatistical analysis. The data pertaining to each character of the rice crop were tabulated variance for split plot design was worked out and significance of treatments were tested to draw valid conclusions as described by Gomez and Gomez (1984). In the split plot design the differences of treatments mean were tested by ‘F’ test of significance on the basis of null hypothesis. Critical Differences were calculated at 5% level of probability if ‘F’ test was significant the Standard error of mean (SEm) were calculated accordingly.\r\nRESULT AND DISCUSSION\r\nPlant height and dry matter accumulation. The data presented in (Table 1&2) revealed that application of chemicals significantly increased the plant height and dry matter production over integrated sources of nutrients at 40 and 60 DAS but the difference between the two treatment was found non-significant in plant height at 40, 90 DAS and at harvest and 90 DAS in dry matter production and the application of chemicals and integrated sources of nutrients significantly increased the dry matter production at all the growth stages over organics except at 40 DAS with integrated sources of nutrients at 40, 90 DAS and at harvest. The result have close conformity with the findings of Aruna and Mohhamad (2005); Barik et al. (2006); Krishna et al. (2008); Dutt and Chauhan (2010); Murthy (2012); Sarker et al. 2017). \r\nThe application of 100, 150, 200% NPK and soil test value (STV) based NPK significantly increased the plant height over control at all the growth stages of rice. The application of 150% NPK level and STV based NPK levels were found significant over 100% NPK at all growth stages and the application of 150 % NPK was also found significantly superior to 200% NPK at all growth stages in plant height but in dry matter it was found at par at 60 DAS. Similar findings were reported Dutt and Chauhan (2010); Murthy (2012).\r\n In interaction, the increasing levels of NPK and STV based NPK levels with all the sources were found significant over control at all the growth stages except @ 100% NPK with organics at 40 and 60 DAS. However, the 150% NPK with all the sources of nutrients were found significant over 100% NPK at 90 DAS and at harvest except 150% NPK with chemicals 90 DAS. Similarly, 150% NPK with organics was also found significant over 200% NPK at 90 DAS and at harvest. The application of 100, 150, 200% NPK and STV based NPK level with chemicals and integrated sources of nutrients were found significant over the same level of NPK with organics at all growth stages except at 100 and 200% NPK with integrated sources of nutrients at 40 DAS and 150% NPK with chemicals and integrated sources of nutrients at 90 DAS in plant height and in dry matter the application of 100, 150 and 200% NPK with chemicals and integrated sources of nutrients were found significant over organics at the same level of NPK at 60 and 90 DAS except 100 and 200% NPK with integrated source at 60 DAS. The STV based NPK was also found significant over organics at the same level of NPK at 60 DAS. The increased the plant height with 150%NPK with chemicals also reported by Meena et al. (2003); Awan et al. (2011); Singh and Kumar (2014).\r\nYield attributing characters. The data presented in Table 3&4 showed that the number of effective tillers, number of panicles per plant, panicle length and test weight of rice grain increased with increasing levels of NPK up to 150% NPK then decreased at 200% NPK. The application of 100, 150, 200% NPK and STV based NPK significantly increased the number of effective tillers, number of panicles plant-1, panicle length and test weight of rice grain over control. \r\nHowever, the application of 150% NPK and STV based NPK level were found significantly superior to 100% NPK for number of tillers per plant, number of panicles per plant, panicle length but the difference between the two treatment was found non-significant for number of panicles and panicle length. While the 150% was found significantly superior to 100 and 200% NPK and STV based NPK level for test weight of rice. The increase of number of tillers with increasing levels of nutrients also supported by Krishna et al. (2008); Dutt and Chauhan (2010); Murthy (2012). The increase of number of panicles with supply of NPK was also confirmed by Singh et al. (2013); Imade et al. (2017). Similarly, the application of NPK increased the panicle length was also reported by Hasanuzzaman et al. (2010); Awan et al. (2011); Alim (2012); Ramalakshmi et al. (2012). Arif et al. (2014); Tiwari et al. (2017).\r\nIn the interaction, the application of 150% NPK with integrated sources was found significant over 100 and 200% NPK for panicle length and test weight of rice. The application of 100 and 200% NPK with chemicals and 100%NPK with integrated sources of nutrients were found significantly superior to organics at the same level of NPK for panicle length. might be due to higher level of NPK increased the availability of NPK nutrients as the fertilizer nutrients are readily available to plants which increased the yield components of rice. The increase of number of tillers with NPK level was confirmed by Dash et al. (2011). The increase of number of panicles with NPK levels was supported by Singh and Agarwal (2001); Mirza et al. (2010). The increase of test weight with NPK level were reported by Ramalakshmi et al. (2012); Arif et al. (2014).\r\nGrain and Straw yield. The data presented in Table 5 indicated that the maximum grain yield (3760 kg ha-1) and straw yield (5681 kg ha-1) were observed with the application of chemicals followed by integrated sources \r\nof nutrients (grain 3514 kg ha-1 and straw 4876 kg ha-1) and organics (grain 2637 kg ha-1 and straw 4029 kg ha-1). The application of chemicals and integrated sources of nutrients significantly increased the grain yield over organics but the sources were found at par. The results are in agreement with the finding of Sowmya et al. (2011); Singh et al. (2011); Majumdar et al. (2007); Tiwari et al. (2017).\r\nThe grain and straw yield increased with increasing levels of NPK up to 150% NPK (grain 3954 kg ha-1 and straw 5921kg ha-1) then decreased at 200% NPK (grain 3405 kg ha-1 and straw 5119 kg ha-1). The application of 100,150,200% NPK and STV based NPK level significantly increased the grain and straw yield over control but the treatments were found at par amongst themselves. Similar results reported by Yadav and Meena, (2014) and Baishya et al. (2015).\r\nIn the interaction application of 100, 150, 200 % NPK and STV based NPK levels with chemicals and integrated sources of nutrients were found significant over the same level of NPK with organics for grain yield except 100% NPK and 200% NPK with integrated sources of nutrients. The maximum grain yield of 4479 kg ha-1 and straw yield of 6929 kg ha-1 were observed with 150% NPK with chemicals respectively might be due to the continuous supply of nutrients in balanced amount throughout the growth period augmented production of sufficient photosynthates and their effective translocation from source to sink resulted in higher grain and straw yield. While the 200 % NPK level produced the excessive growth of rice plant resulted the highest straw yield. Similar, findings were reported by Sowmya et al. (2011); Sepehya et al. (2012); Singh et al. (2014); Shrivatava et al. (2013); Nanda et al. (2016); Tiwari et al. (2017).\r\nHarvest Index. The data presented in Table 5 showed that the maximum harvest index (42.1%) was observed with the application of integrated followed by chemical sources of nutrients (40.36%) and organics (39.51%) but the sources were found non-significant also reported by Kandel et al. (2018). The interaction between sources of nutrients and levels of NPK were found non-significant for harvest index of rice. The maximum harvest index of 43.73% was observed with control.\r\nAvailable N, P and K. The data presented in table 6 indicated that the maximum available Nitrogen (219 kg ha-1), phosphorous (13.01kg ha-1) were observed with the application of chemicals followed by integrated and organics. While, the maximum available potassium (251kg ha-1) was observed with the application of integrated sources of nutrients followed by chemicals (247kg ha-1) and organics (237kg ha-1) but the sources of nutrients were found non- significant for available N and K. The application of chemicals and integrated sources of nutrients significantly increased postharvest available P over organics but the sources of nutrients were found at par (Gupta et al. 2006). \r\n','Pooja Panthi, P.S. Kulhare, Maya, Sangya Singh, Shubham Singh and Prachi Meravi (2022). To find out the Suitable Source of Nutrient Management and Optimum Level of Nutrients for Maximum Rice Production. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 14(2): 1021-1027.'),(4997,'125','Studies on Preparation and Preservation of Wood Apple Spicy Toffee','Manjula Jahagirdar*, Kirankumar Gorabal, K. Ramachandra Naik, Rudragouda T. Patil and Siddanna B. Thoke','176 Studies on Preparation and Preservation of Wood Apple Spicy Toffee Manjula Jahagirdar.pdf','',1,'Wood apple spicy toffees were developed with different recipes containing 2 levels of sugar, caramel sugar, spice mixture and constant levels of garlic powder, rock salt and evaluated for changes in chemical and sensory parameters at monthly intervals during a storage period of 3 months at ambient conditions. Total soluble solids (TSS), pH, non-enzymatic browning, total and reducing sugar content of toffees were found to increase marginally whereas, moisture, ascorbic acid, titratable acidity, non-reducing sugars, calcium, phosphorus and iron content were decreased with the advancement of storage period. The sensory quality parameters viz., color and appearance, flavor, taste, texture and overall acceptability of wood apple toffees were decreased significantly during the storage period however, the products were acceptable even after three months of storage at ambient conditions.','Wood apple, spicy toffee, spice mixture, organoleptic characters','From the above results, spicy toffee is prepared from a recipe containing 750 g sugar + 80 g spice mixture + 5 g garlic powder + 2 g rock salt (T5) and 750 g sugar + 100 g spice mixture + 5 g garlic powder + 2 g rock salt (T6) resulted in superior quality with respect to Physico-chemical characters and organoleptic traits.','INTRODUCTION\r\nThe wood apple (Feronia limonia Swingle) belongs to the family Rutaceae, is commonly found in dry deciduous forests (Mazumder et al., 2006). The significance of the wood apple fruit lies in its curative properties, the fruit is used in India as a liver and cardiac tonic when unripe as astringent means of halting diarrhea and dysentery (Singhania and Ray 2019), effective treatment for hiccups, sore throat and diseases of gums (Kerkar et al., 2020), the pulp is poultice onto bites and stings of venomous insects also it has hypoglycaemic, antitumor, antidiabetic, anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, antimicrobial and hepatoprotective activity (Srivastava et al., 2019). This fruit is considered to be one of the natural sources of anti-oxidants due to its potential radical scavenging activity of various phytochemicals (Moazzem et al., 2019).\r\nThe flesh of the wood apple fruit is sweet, somewhat acidic, aromatic and has high nutritional value. The fruit comprises (40.47 to 66.46%) pulp, seed (3.31 to 12.48%), fibre (3.85 to 5.08%), moisture (65.32 to 74.04%), TSS (12.08 to 18.44oB), acidity (2.44 to 6.12%), brix: acid (2.46 to 6.48), pH (2.80 to 3.54), total sugars (2.23 to 6.83%), pectin (1.02 to 2.13%), vit-C (2.88 to 6.24 mg/100 g), vit-B12 (0.05 to 0.27 mg/100 g), calcium (80.1 to 111.35 mg/100 g), phosphorus (37.10 to 69.17 mg/100 g) and iron (0.05 to 16.29 mg/100 g) (Gorabal, 2020).\r\nBecause of its excellent flavor and nutritive value, this fruit has a great potential for value addition. A wide variety of value-added products can be prepared from this fruit including beverages, jam, jelly and leather (Gorabal et al., 2020). The fruit is not popular as a dessert fruit because it exhibits difficulty while eating as it has a hard shell, sticky texture and abundant seeds. Therefore, it is not easily marketed in fresh form and should be processed into acceptable products (Gowda, 2017).\r\nToffee is one of the confectionary nutritional products, has a chewy texture and is a good source of dietary fibre and natural sugar hence product is liked by all age groups peoples (Bhokre et al., 2010). Nowadays global demand for fruit-based toffees were increasing day by day (Shastri et al., 1979: Domale et al., 2008). The toffee can be better utilized as a vehicle to promote consumption and utilization of wood apple fruit, which have otherwise less market demand and quite limited shelf life therefore a study was conducted to exploit the excellent and delightful pulp characters having a potential, nutritional and medicinal value of wood apple fruits by converting them into spicy toffee which would help to overcome the market glut and thereby assure the economic prices to the fruit.\r\n\r\nMATERIAL AND METHODS\r\nAn experiment was carried out during 2020-21 in the Department of Post Harvest Technology, KRC College of Horticulture, Arabhavi (UHS, Bagalkot), Karnataka. The fully ripe fruits were selected for toffee preparation and the methodology used for the preparation of spicy toffee is mentioned in Fig. 1.\r\nThe Products were analyzed for moisture content using a moisture analyzer (Model: P1019319, A & D Company Limited, Japan). TSS (oB) was measured by using an ‘Erma’ make hand refractometer after necessary corrections. Titratable acidity (%) and ascorbic acid (mg/100 g) content was estimated as per the modified procedure of AOAC (Anon., 1984). The non-enzymatic browning (OD value) was estimated according to the procedure of Srivastava and Sanjeevkumar (1998). Reducing sugars were estimated as per the Dinitro-salicylic acid method (Miller, 1972). The total sugar content was estimated as per the procedure given in AOAC (Anon., 1984). The per cent non-reducing sugars were obtained by subtracting the values of reducing sugars from that of total sugars. The minerals such as calcium, phosphorus and iron present in the spicy toffee were estimated as per the procedure given in AOAC (Anon., 1990). The organoleptic characters were evaluated by a panel of semi-trained judges consisting of teachers and post-graduate students of KRC College of Horticulture, Arabhavi, on a nine-point hedonic scale as per the method of Ranganna (2003). The total bacterial and fungal count was taken as per the method of Harrigan and Mc-Cance (1966). The data recorded on the Physico-chemical and organoleptic parameters were subjected to statistical analysis in CRD. The interpretation of data was carried out in accordance with Panse and Sukhatme (1985). The level of significance used in the ‘F’ test was p=0.01.\r\nRESULTS AND DISCUSSION\r\nEffect of different recipes on the nutritional quality of wood apple spicy toffee. The nutritional quality of wood apple spicy toffee was affected by the advancement of the storage period. The moisture \r\ncontent of spicy toffee decreased from 12.87 to 12.31 per cent during the storage period (Table 2) could be due to the natural dehydration of the product (Aggarwal and Kaur 2014). Similar observations were made by Gorabal (2020) in the wood apple fruit bar. The TSS was increased (78.00 to 78.06oB) throughout the entire period of storage (Table 2) due to acid hydrolysis of insoluble polysaccharides especially gums and pectin into soluble sugars, the results were in accordance with the findings of Nalage et al. (2014) in aonla ginger mixed toffee. The ascorbic acid content of spicy toffee was found to decrease (1.98 to 1.74 mg/100 g) during storage due to the conversion of ascorbic acid to di-hydroxy ascorbic acid (Table 2), titratable acidity decreased from 2.37 to 2.28 per cent during storage it might be due to the reaction of acids with basic minerals in the products. The pH was increased from 3.60 to 3.65during the storage period (Table 3) might be due to a decrease in the acid concentrations in toffees. Similar results were noticed by Vidhya and Narin (2011) in wood apple bar and Panna et al. (2019) in guava toffee. Similar findings i.e. decrease in ascorbic acid and titratable acidity during storage were also reported by Chavan et al. (2016) in guava toffee.\r\nProgressive increase (1.01 to 1.05) in browning (O. D. values) of spicy toffee was observed with the advancement of the storage period (Table 3) it may be due to the formation of furfural and hydroxyl furfural by aerobic and anaerobic degradation of ascorbic acid, sugars and organic acids (Kumar et al., 2019). The same type of findings was noticed by Nayak et al. (2012) in aonla candy.\r\nThe total and reducing sugars were increased (61.21 to 61.42% and 16.14 to 16.56%, respectively) and non-reducing sugars were decreased (42.82 to 42.61%) throughout the storage period (Table 4). The increase in the total and reducing sugar content of toffee could be due to acid hydrolysis of insoluble polysaccharides especially gums and pectin into soluble sugars. On the other hand, the non-reducing sugars were decreased during the storage period, this might be due to inversion. The results were in accordance with the findings of Kohinkar et al. (2012) in fig and guava toffee and Chavan et al. (2016) in guava toffee.\r\nA negligible reduction in the calcium, phosphorus and iron content (27.07 to 27.04, 34.13 to 34.11 and 4.19 to 4.16 mg/100 g) in toffee was observed (Table 5). This was due to the light, oxygen and water content will affect the mineral content of the product during storage, which will result in oxidation and reduction of these minerals. Vidhya and Narain (2011); Gorabal (2020) also noticed similar kinds of results in wood apple bar stored for 3 months under ambient condition. \r\nEffect of different recipes on organoleptic quality and safety of wood apple spicy toffee. The spicy toffee exhibited significant variations with respect to all the sensory quality parameters. The mean organoleptic scores decreased from an initial value of 8.19 to 7.63 for color and appearance, 7.09 to 6.71 for flavor, 7.69 to 6.98 for taste, 7.91 to 7.17 for texture and 7.72 to 7.20 for overall acceptability during the storage period of 3 months (Table 6 and 7).The overall decline in the sensory score during the storage may be due to some undesirable changes taking place in the product during storage. Similar results were noticed by Kumar et al. (2019) in aonla and papaya toffee; Gorabal (2020) in wood apple fruit bar.\r\nNo microbial growth was observed during the storage period. Ensuring that, the product was safe even after 90 days of storage, because of the less moisture, low water activity of spicy toffee and high acidic nature of pulp. \r\n','Manjula Jahagirdar, Kirankumar Gorabal, K. Ramachandra Naik, Rudragouda T. Patil and Siddanna B. Thoke (2022). Studies on Preparation and Preservation of Wood Apple Spicy Toffee. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 14(2): 1028-1033.'),(4998,'125','Nutrient Uptake and Soil Fertility Status in Crop Sequences Module for different Integrated Farming System Models of Telangana State','Ch. Pragathi Kumari*, M. Venkata Ramana, M. Goverdhan,G. Kiran Reddy, G. Vinay, M. Santhosh Kumar and R. Karthik','177 Nutrient Uptake and Soil Fertility Status in Crop Sequences Module for different Integrated Farming System Models of Telangana State Ch. Pragathi Kumari.pdf','',1,'In order to develop the efficient integrated farming system models, cropping systems needs to be evaluated in terms of productivity, nutrient uptake and economics. Different cropping sequences in terms of nutrient uptake as well as soil fertility status in crop sequences module for different integrated farming system models in Telangana state were evaluated as a part of this study and results are presented here. Rice - maize and Bt cotton are grown by majority of farmers across the Telangana. Rice – maize system has attained higher nutrient uptake comparatively which has lead to higher rice grain equivalent yield than Bt cotton. Bt cotton + green gram (1:3) - groundnut cropping system has obtained significantly greater nutrient uptake as compared to redgram + green gram (1:6) – sesame cropping system in the cropping systems for protecting long term soil health. Among the crops growing for family nutritional security giving, pigeonpea + groundnut (1:7) - ragi has obtained significantly higher nutrient uptake as compared to redgram + maize (1:3) – groundnut system. Nutrient uptake of fodder maize – lucerne system was greater compared to fodder sorghum + fodder cowpea (1:2) – horsegram – sunhemp system between the two fodder cropping systems. In high value crops, okra–marigold–beetroot system has recorded higher N uptake whereas sweetcorn-vegetables (tomato) has obtained highest P & K uptake in the perspective of farming systems. It is found that fodder systems needs more amount of nutrients for their growth and development among all other cropping systems. Rice- maize, Bt cotton + green gram - groundnut, pigeonpea + groundnut - ragi, fodder maize – lucerne and sweet corn-vegetables (tomato) systems were found efficient and could be incorporated in different integrated farming system models in Telangana state. ','Nutrient uptake, Nutritional security, Telangana','There is a need to develop cropping sequences suitable for various regions as a part of crop diversification. These location specific cropping systems shall not only improve the productivity and income but also maintains the environmental sustainability. Under high value crops, sweetcorn - tomato system, among the ecological cropping systems, Bt cotton + greengram (1:3) – groundnut, under the cropping systems for family nutritional security, Redgram + Groundnut (1:7) - Ragi system, under two fodder crops/cropping systems, fodder maize – lucerne system and under pre-dominant cropping systems, rice – maize systems have obtained the highest nutrient uptakes which might resulted in the highest rice grain equivalent yields in most of the cropping systems.','INTRODUCTION\r\nThe modern production systems have negatively impacted the nutrient balance as well as soil fertility (Karthik et al., 2021). There is a need to provide food as well as nutritional security to ever burgeoning population while maintaining the sustainability which can be achieved through crop diversification. Pulses, oilseeds, vegetables and fodder crops need to be grown along with cereals to achieve food as well as nutritional security which is the main objective of crop diversification. More attention should be given to crop diversification which is a challenging aspect from farmer’s point of view. Crop diversification is an effective method for obtaining food as well as nutritional security, economic growth, poverty alleviation, job creation, and sensible land and water resource management, as well as sustainable agriculture development and environmental improvement (Hedge et al., 2003). Diversified cropping systems give multiple sources for food, enhance the land productivity and lessen the pest & disease infestation. Inclusion of legumes in cropping systems will have a positive impact on soil properties and protects the long term health of soil (Gangwar and Ram 2005). Intercropping short-duration cereals and pulses allows farmers to make better use of available resources while increasing the productivity and profitability of various cropping systems. Intercropping of redgram with groundnut protects the soil health and enhances the productivity (Kanyama-Phiri et al., 2008). This has been ascribed to the legumes\' enhanced nitrogen (N) and organic matter (OM) input into the soil. The demand for fodder has increased in recent decades as the number of dairy units has increased in various farming systems. As a result, crops such as fodder cowpea and fodder maize might be grown to alleviate the problem of fodder scarcity.\r\nRice, maize, and Bt cotton are the primary crops being cultivated in the Southern Telangana Zone either alone or in rotation with other crops. As all the crops are non–leguminous in nature, some other cropping systems should be incorporated in the cropping system module to complement the crops and promote soil sustainability. Several workers (Ravishankar et al., 2007; Jayanthi et al., 2003; Rangaswamy et al., 1995) noticed that farming systems would improve the productivity which ultimately results in higher income compared to monocropping. Ecological cropping systems involving pulses for soil health, cereals, pulses, and oilseeds for family nutritional security, cropping systems for year-round green fodder production, and cropping systems involving vegetables and other high-value crops should all be investigated for their productivity and sustainability in light of this farming system perspective. The effectiveness of nutrients is determined by the choice of suitable nutrient management and crop sequencing. Nutrient uptake of any crop depends upon nutrient supply from soil along with application of external sources. Nutrients are used during the growth season in proportion to the demand for nutrients defined by the rising crop biomass. This investigation was conducted to find out the nutrient uptake and soil fertility status of various crops in cropping systems suitable for different farming system models in Telangana. Keeping this in mind, present study was conducted. \r\nMATERIALS AND METHODS\r\nA. Experimental site description\r\nThe study was conducted at college farm, AICRP on IFS unit, PJTSAU, Rajendranagar, Hyderabad during 2020-21. The soil was sandy loam, low in organic carbon (0.39%), available nitrogen (112 kg ha-1), medium in available phosphorus (23.4 kg ha-1) and available potassium (170 kg ha-1).\r\nB. Experimental design and treatments\r\nThe ten treatments were laid out in RBD, replicated thrice and the site of the experimental field was same throughout the experimentation and all crops were grown under irrigated conditions. The varieties of different crops used were rice - RNR -15048, pigeonpea – PRG 176, groundnut – K 6, greengram- MGG 295, Sesame - Swethathil, fodder sorghum – CSH 24 MF, finger millet – Hima and fodder cowpea – Vijaya. Different cropping sequences were grown to find out the highly productive as well as sustainable cropping systems suitable for Southern Telangana Zone. The ten treatments of cropping systems tested round the year which were divided in to five subsets. They are pre-dominant cropping systems of the region (T1 & T2), T1: rice - maize, T2: Bt cotton alone, second sub set (T3 and T4) included ecological cropping systems involving pulses for improving soil health viz., T3: Bt cotton + greengram (1:3) - groundnut, T4: pigeonpea + greengram (1:6) - sesame, under cropping system involving cereals / pulses / oilseeds to meet the family nutritional security (T5 & T6) T5: pigeonpea + maize (1:3)-groundnut, T6: pigeonpea + groundnut(1:7) - ragi, within cropping systems for round the year green / dry fodder production (T7 & T8) T7: fodder sorghum + fodder cowpea (1:2) – horsegram - sunhemp, T8: fodder maize - lucerne, under cropping systems involving high value crops for income augmentation (T9 & T10) T9: sweet corn -vegetables (tomato), T10: okra –marigold–beetroot. Economics as well as biological yields of all crops were recorded. Rice grain equivalent yield (RGEY) was calculated to evaluate system performance by converting the yield of non-rice crops into equivalent rice yield on a price basis, using the formula, \r\nRGEY = Yx(Px/Pr),\r\n Where, Yx is the yield of non-rice crops (kg ha-1), Px is the price of non-rice crops (Rs) and Pr is the price of rice crop.\r\nC. Observation and analysis \r\nAfter harvesting, grain as well as plant samples were collected thereafter oven dried for the analysis of N, P & K uptake. The total nitrogen content (%) in the dried plant sample was determined by microkjeldahl distillation method (Piper, 1996). The diacid extract (9:4 nitric acid: perchloric acid) was utilized for investigation of total phosphorus and potassium in plant samples. Nutrient uptake is calculated by multiplying nutrient content with biomass.\r\nD. Statistical analysis \r\nThe data generated from field experiment were analyzed in randomized block design (Gomez and Gomez, 1984) in three replications with ten treatments by analysis of variance (ANOVA). The significance of different sources of variation was tested by the error mean square of Fisher Snedecor’s ‘F’ test at probability level 0.05. Standard error of mean (SE) and least signiﬁcant difference (LSD) at 0.05 level of significance were used to compare treatments. \r\nRESULTS AND DISCUSSION\r\nRegarding system productivity, okra–marigold–beetroot system has obtained higher RGEY (33145 kg ha-1) compared to remaining cropping systems (Table 1). Among the ecological cropping systems, Bt cotton + greengram (1:3)- groundnut cropping system recorded significantly higher rice grain equivalent yield (15252 kgha-1) than redgram + greengram (1:6) - sesame (8429 kg ha-1) cropping system. Out of the two systems tested to meet the family nutritional security, redgram + maize (1:3) – groundnut system reported higher rice grain equivalent yield (15492 kgha-1) than redgram + groundnut (1:7) - ragi system (10937 kgha-1). Out of the two fodder crops/cropping systems, fodder maize – lucerne system resulted in higher rice grain equivalent yield (8470 kgha-1) than fodder sorghum + fodder cow pea (1:2) - horsegram –sunhemp system (6518 kg ha-1). Among the predominant cropping systems of the region, rice – maize system has attained higher RGEY (12240 kgha-1) than sole Bt cotton (6342 kgha-1). \r\nA. N uptake \r\nFodder crops generally require more nutrients compared to other crops which is why uptake of fodder crops is high. Out of the fodder cropping systems, fodder sorghum + fodder cow pea (1:2) system takes higher amount of N (311.7 kg ha-1) followed by fodder maize (202.9 kg ha-1) during kharif 2020. Among the ecological cropping systems involving crops for protecting long term soil health, nitrogen removal by both the systems was statistically on par. Bt cotton + greengram (1:3) cropping system removed slightly higher quantities of N (101.4 kg ha-1) over redgram + greengram (1:3) cropping system (96.0 kg ha-1). Out of the two systems tested to meet the family nutritional security, redgram + groundnut (1:7) has obtained higher N uptake (129.7 kg ha-1) compared to redgram + maize (1:3) (63.0 kg ha-1) which might be due to N fixation by the redgram and groundnut as reported by Singh and Srivastava (2018). Sweetcorn requires more amount of nutrients for its growth and development and it is regarded as a high value crop by farmers as its investment is high. Sweet corn has removed 143.3 kg ha-1 N which is higher than bhendi (70.4 kg ha-1) among the income augmentation crops. Sweet corn removes more N from the soil which has resulted in higher productivity compared to other crops (Pragathi Kumari et al., 2020). N removal by rice and Bt cotton was 93.9 and 108.1 kg ha-1, respectively and at par with each other. Higher amount of N uptake was recorded by Lucerne crop (312.5 kg ha-1) followed by Marigold-Beetroot (274.4 kg ha-1) during rabi and summer seasons of 2019-20 while sesame has obtained lowest N uptake (35.4 kg ha-1) (Table 5).\r\nN removal by rice-maize was higher (201.9 kg ha-1) followed by sole Bt cotton (108.1 kg ha-1) among the major cropping systems as former system occupies the soil for longer duration and cereals requires much amount of N. Fodder maize – lucerne system (515.4 kg ha-1) followed by fodder sorghum + fodder cowpea (1:2) – horsegram - sunhemp fodder system (489.6 kg ha-1) has recorded the significant amount of N uptake. Among the ecological cropping systems involving crops for enhancing soil strength, N removal by Btcotton + greengram (1:3)- groundnut cropping system slightly higher (175.7 kg ha-1 ) than redgram + greengram (1:6) – sesame cropping system (131.4 kg ha-1) because Bt cotton, groundnut crops are little bit exhaustive in nature. Maize feeds upon more amount of N compared to ragi which is why redgram + maize (1:3)-groundnut has removed higher N than redgram + groundnut (1:7) – ragi systems, with N removal of 183.8 and 139.2 kg ha-1 respectively between the two systems tested to meet the family nutritional security. Sweet corn is a heavy feeder of N which might be the reason for higher N uptake of sweet corn-vegetables (tomato) system (253.3 kg ha-1) over okra – marigold – beetroot (344.8 kg ha-1) systems between cropping systems involving high value crops for income enhancement.\r\nB. P uptake \r\nSweet corn has removed more P among the crops and cropping systems tested in the kharif season (Table 3). The P removal by both fodder sorghum + fodder cow pea (1:2) (28.9 kg ha-1) and fodder maize (33.5 kg ha-1) was at par with each other. Bt cotton + greengram (1:3) cropping system removed somewhat more amount of P (11.6 kg ha-1) compared to redgram + greengram (1:3) cropping system (9.3 kg ha-1) between the cropping systems involving crops for protecting long term soil health. Between the two systems tested to meet the family nutritional security, redgram + maize (1:3) system removed lesser quantities of P (9.8 kg ha-1) than redgram + groundnut (1:7) system (13.5 kg ha-1). Sweet corn is a heavy feeder of nutrients which is why sweet corn has removed higher amount of P (34.0 kg ha-1) than bhendi (12.4 kg ha-1) between the crops evaluated for income enhancement. Rice has removed more P (26.0 kg ha-1) which is significantly higher compared to Bt cotton (9.4 kg ha-1) which might be attributed to exhaustive nature of cereals. Marigold-beetroot removed maximum P (47.3 kg ha-1) followed by maize crop (31.0 kg ha-1) in rabi and summer seasons (Table 6). The P uptake by marigold-beetroot system is 47.3 kg ha-1 which is higher compared to maize crop (31.0 kg ha-1). P uptake was found lowest in ragi crop (8.1 kg ha-1). \r\nRice-maize system has removed the higher amounts of P (56.9 kg ha-1) compared to sole Bt cotton (9.4 kg ha-1) (Table 8) as rice and maize takes more amount of nutrients from soil. Fodder maize - lucerne system (50.8 kg ha-1) has removed more amount of P compared to fodder sorghum + fodder cowpea (1:2) – horsegram - sunhemp system (44.0 kg ha-1). Bt cotton + greengram (1:3)- groundnut cropping system has removed somewhat higher amounts of P (20.3 kg ha-1) over redgram + greengram (1:6) – sesame cropping system (17.7 kg ha-1) between the cropping systems for protecting long term soil health. Redgram + groundnut (1:7) – ragi system (21.6 kg ha-1) has removed more P than redgram + maize (1:3)-groundnut (18.5 kg ha-1) system between the two systems tested to meet the family nutritional security. The P uptake of sweet corn- (Tomato) system (61.7 kg ha-1) is higher compared tookra – marigold – beetroot (59.8 kg ha-1) systems as sweet corn is a heavy feeder of nutrients.\r\nC. K uptake \r\nGenerally fodder crops removes maximum amount of nutrients compared to other crops. Fodder maize has removed significantly higher K (373.3 kg ha-1) (Table 7) than fodder sorghum + fodder cowpea (1:2) system (174.2 kg ha-1) between the two fodders crops/cropping systems in kharif season which might be due to high K requirement of maize crop. Between the cropping systems crops for protecting long term soil health, highest K uptake was recorded by Bt cotton + greengram (1:3) cropping system (63.1 kg ha-1) compared to redgram + greengram (1:3) cropping system (40.5 kg ha-1). Sankaranarayanan et al. (2010) reported that inclusion of legumes as a intercrop in Bt cotton gives higher yield over sole cotton which might be due to higher nutrient uptake. Redgram + maize (1:3) system has removed K content of 46.3 kg ha-1 which is significantly at par with K uptake of redgram + groundnut (1:7) system (48.8 kg ha-1) between the two systems tested to meet the family nutritional security. The K uptake of sweet corn (205.8 kg ha-1) was 2.5 times more than that of bhendi (80.5 kg ha-1) which is because of heavy K requirement of sweet corn. Kuptake by rice (113.5 kg ha-1) is almost double than that of Bt cotton (59.5 kg ha-1). Lucerne has removed K content of 202.1 kg ha-1 which is higher compared to marigold - beetroot (157.8 kg ha-1) in rabi as well as summer seasons of 2020-21 (Table 7) while sesame has recorded lowest nutrient uptake (17.3 kg ha-1). The K removal of rice-maize was higher (199.7 kg ha-1) compared to sole Bt cotton (59.5 kg ha-1) in terms of system uptake. K uptake was maximum with fodder maize – lucerne system (575.4 kg ha-1) which is higher than fodder sorghum + fodder cowpea (1:2) – horsegram - sunhemp system (326.8 kg ha-1) between the two fodder cropping systems. \r\nAmong the ecological cropping systems involving crops for protecting long term soil health, Kuptake of Bt cotton + greengram (1:3)- groundnut cropping system is slightly higher (83.8 kg ha-1) than that of pigeonpea + greengram (1:6) – sesame cropping system (57.8 kg ha-1). The K uptake of pigeonpea + maize (1:3)-groundnut (67.3 kg ha-1) and pigeonpea + groundnut (1:7) – ragi systems (67.8 kg ha-1) were significantly at par with each other between the two systems tested to meet the family nutritional security. The K uptake of sweet corn-vegetables (tomato) system (304.8 kg ha-1) is higher compared to okra – marigold – beetroot system (238.3 kg ha-1) between cropping two cropping systems involving high value crops for income augmentation.\r\nD. Soil fertility\r\nThe soil pH, EC, OC and available N, K was at par at the end of the eight crop cycles (Table 9). But available P was higher for fodder maize (48.60 kg ha-1) and it is statically at par with redgram + maize (1:3) and redgram + greengram (1:3).\r\n','Ch. Pragathi Kumari, M. Venkata Ramana, M. Goverdhan, G. Kiran Reddy, G. Vinay, M. Santhosh Kumar and R. Karthik (2022). Nutrient Uptake and Soil Fertility Status in Crop Sequences Module for different Integrated Farming System Models of Telangana State. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 14(2): 1034-1040.'),(4999,'125','Recent Trends on Genetic Variability and Diversity in Chickpea\r\n(Cicer aritenum L.)\r\n','Sheeshpal, Suhel Mehandi*, Harmeet S. Janeja, Mamta Choudhary and Nidhi Sharma','178 Recent Trends on Genetic Variability and Diversity in Chickpea Suhel Mehandi.pdf','',1,'Intake of low nutritional food which does not contain enough number of proteins, fats, vitamins etc. it is very common in Asian countries. Condition of malnutrition can easily be seen in child under age of 5 and mostly in vegetarian population of India. In such case, genetical improvement of crop by increasing their nutrient content through genetic engineering has potential to overcome with this issue. Pulses are the best alternative of protein rich diet for people, nutritional content of pulses is much higher than that of cereals. There are many pulses crop like Moong bean, Urd bean, Lentil, Arhar and Chickpea. India is the largest grower or supplier of pulses in world it accounts overall 20% of food grain area under pulses. In this review we will discuss about the chickpea its characterization on the basis of origin, cultivation, morphology, genetic makeup, nutrition content etc.','Chickpea, variability, diversity, protein','For developing countries like India, Pakistan, Afghanistan etc. pulses are serving as major source of protein. Chickpea is cultivated in all over world and considered as second most important pulse crop. Because of less engagement of researchers and breeders Chickpea does not get enough advancement in genetical models. Major focus of researchers are in developing high yielding varieties according different agroclimatic zones and less in devastating pathogen or stress resistance species. Recently, most focused area researchers to develop new resistance cultivar against drought, salinity, heat and pathogens etc. Genetic characterization of Chickpea provides wider scope for advancement of Chickpea.','INTRODUCTION\r\nCicer arientinum L. commonly known as Chana and is known by different other names in different areas and localities. Chickpea is a self-pollinated crop having chromosome number 16 and belongs to family Fabaceae. In India, state to state local names of Chickpea varies. Chickpeas are most commonly grown kharif season crop in Northern India. Which is also known as Bengal gram, Chana, Chole, Kabuli Chana, Egyptian Pea etc. (Hajibarat et al., 2015). It is reported as originated in South Eastern part of Turkey and spread all over the world (Ahmad et al., 2010). It scientifically named “𝘊𝘪𝘤𝘦𝘳 𝘢𝘳𝘪𝘦𝘯𝘵𝘪𝘯𝘶𝘮” belongs to family Leguminosae and comprises of almost 43species among all only 9 are cultivated and seasonal others are perennial in nature. Chickpea is considered as third staple pulse crop after French bean and Field pea. The Chickpea is preferred to be grown in Rabi season in areas of good rainfall for higher yield and well adopted to be grown in semi-arid region. Sandy loam soil with good drainage is required for good cultivation of chickpea (Talebi et al., 2008). There are two types of Chickpeas grown in all over world one is Desi and other is Kabuli both are grown in Rabi season (Thudi et al., 2016). Chickpea is cultivated in an area of 13.2 m ha from this amount of area it accounts about 11.62 m tonnes per annum and is grown in more than 50 countries. The area and production wide India ranks first in position by producing 70% of world production. Chickpea is one of the most suitable crop for sustainable agriculture. Chickpea crop fixes atmospheric nitrogen having tap root system and also completes crop rotation with cereals. It seems like too good a fixer of nitrogen through its symbiotic association with Rhizobium it fixes about 140 Kg N/ha and meets 80% nitrogen requirement. The root of Chickpea goes too deep in the soil and makes lower layer of porous which promotes good aeration and water holding capacity of the soil. After harvesting a good amount of atmospheric fixed nitrogen as well other biomass of crop has remained in the field which promotes the soil quality. In India and other regions like the Middle east and South Asian countries. Chickpea provides a great source of proteins for vegetation peoples and provides protein content about 22%. Minerals like Magnesium, Calcium, Phosphorus and Lipids etc. in unsaturated fatty acids and fiber also present in good amount in Chickpea. The amount of Caretonoids present in Chickpea is high as compared to golden rice. Chickpea has no anti-nutritional factor like it does not suppress the level of other nutrients. Various kinds of acid exudates were released from the leaves of chickpea has a very beneficial role medicinally like in Snakebite, diarrhea, cholera, constipation, warts and sunstroke (Nisar et al., 2007). It is also used to reduce blood cholesterol levels and acts as a hypo-cholesteric agent. Both economic and biological parts of chickpea are important from a consumption point of view for humans and animals (Ahmad et al., 2012). Humans used it as flour after grinding, processed fruits and after harvesting the remaining part of the plant is used as a feed for livestock. Purple is the flower color of the desi type of chickpea because of the presence of pigment anthocyanin but in Kabuli type there is an absence of pigments, therefore the flowers are whitish in color (Sethy et al., 2006). The seed color of the desi type of chickpea is dark multi-colored and the seed coat is rough while Kabuli chickpea is white in color and the size is large as compared to the desi type of chickpea. Chick pea accounts 50% of area under total pulse production. It supported as best food for human and animal as well. Husk left after processing could be easily utilize as cattle food (Naghavi et al., 2012).\r\nChickpea is commonly classified into two groups which are as follows:\r\nDesi chana scientifically named as “Cicer arientinum L.”Gram grown under this group are most widely grown group and have color variation from yellow to brown (Sethy et al., 2006). Seed of this particular group is small in size. Height of plant are less and heavily branched with thick erect stem. Crop of this group required almost 145-150 days to attain maximum maturity (Sani et al., 2018). Total yield potential of per hectare is accounts 22-25 quintals. Kabuli chana scientifically named as “Cicer kabulium” Gram grown under this group are white in color and seed of this group are broad and well shaped. Plants of Kabuli \r\n(Cicer kabulium) are small but taller than that of Desi (Cicer arietinum) and heavily branched, flower color of this group plants is white (Bayraktar & Dolar, 2009). The crop of this group matures in 130-140days under well irrigated condition. Total yield potential of this group is reported about 25 quintals per hectare (𝘏𝘢𝘫𝘪𝘣𝘢𝘳𝘢𝘵 𝘦𝘵 𝘢𝘭., 2015). Chickpea is one of highest protein rich pulse ranges 10-12%, Fiber 9.6g, Carbohydrates 35g, Fat 3.5g, Calories about 200g and another micro nutrient also. Chickpea can be considered as plant-based protein food which is very good supplement for hairs, skin and building block of body (Ahmad et al., 2012).\r\nGenetic diversity of Chickpea. Characterization of genetic diversity of Chickpea (Cicer aritenum L.) and (Cicer kabulium) for carrying successful breeding program collection of germplasm is required. Genetical characterization of crop species are carried out by different biochemical, molecular method and genetical marker. The characterization done for identification of best variety, stability (Jingade et al., 2014). The molecular markers used for genetic characterization are generally neutral in nature, not restricted with age of tissue, adopted in all kind of environmental conditions use of this markers are more efficient (Ahmad et al., 2012).\r\nGermplasm collection of Chickpea. As global population rising and diamond for food and space will be expected to be increase in this race it causes major disturbance in ecosystem, extinction of various species of plants and animal as well (Bhagyawant and Srivastava, 2008). In this case conservation of germplasm is required to maintain sustainability and to protect integrity of species so, in future it could be use for development of new species, their improvement through in situ & ex-situ conservation, genetical modification, gene library etc. Germplasm stored in the bank sever as foremost source of raw material for crop improvement program (Hameed et al., 2009). In India very large gene bank is located in NBPGR New Delhi where about orthodox seed is 396189 representing 1584 species and it was started in year 1970. Both Indian and USDA collabrotedly started work of conserving germ plasma of chickpea in year 1970, where they had stored 7000 germplasm under Pulse improvement program. NBPGR adjoining with ICRISAT has collected wide number of species of Cicer. microphyllum from many countries like Turkey, Afganistan, Pakistan and Syria (Rairia et al., 2019; Mehandi et al., 2013).\r\nThe wild species collected from different continents of world are C. nuristanicum, C. microphyllum, C. macrocanthum, C. judaicum, C. reticulatum, C. pinnatifidum, C. yamashitae.\r\nCollection of these germplasm found very valuable for conservation of species for our coming future generation (Upadhyaya et al., 2011).\r\nGenetical markers and Gene Sequencing. Genetic modification or development of resistance against diseases through genetic process is done in wild species of Chickpea such as C. nuristanicum, C. microphyllum, C. macrocanthum, C. judaicum, C. reticulatum etc. Crop of chickpea is attacked by various pathogens such as fungi, bacteria, virus and nematodes like wilt, smut, blight and many more .One of most common diseases seen in Chickpea is fusarium wilt causal organism is Fusarium oxysporum cause most drastic damage to crop (Agarwal et al., 2012). The appearance of new strains of pathogens against pesticides, fungicides cause major problem for assessing the problem alteration of new variety with genetical modification against pathogen is required under which diseases resistance gene will be incorporated under DNA of plant further after field trails it will get available to farmers (Jain & Chattopadhyay 2010). \r\nCharacterization of gene. Annual Chickpea species C. reticulatum have been identified as most valuable species because it has ability to represent improved gene base for development of diseases resistance cultivated crop species Apart from diseases resistance genetic modification is also required for developing tolerance against biotic and a-biotic stress such as drought, water logging, salinity, heavy metal etc (Naghavi et al., 2012). For developing resistance or tolerance against biotic and abiotic stress selection of gene and its importation in wild and cultivated species is done through inter-specific hybridization. Under the situation of stress Plant adopt itself on morpho-physiological bases in such case identification of correct gene for particular stress become most important part of gene characterization. Under Crop improvement program have many integrated parts like selection and identification of gene, proper utilization, alteration through genetic process and breeding. Without molecular techniques it is most difficult part to identify correct trait, marker assisted selection and incorporation in wild species. Many group of researcher has identified to species of Cicer for genetical breeding from cultivar Cicer arientinum and from wild Cicer reticulatum because of their durability. Whole resequencing of genome was done through process of single nucleotide polymorphism (Bayraktar & Dolar, 2009). Improved genetic map with more advancement of 95% spacing achieve 3d in Desi type of chana. In case of kabuli, sequencing of gene map was done in through shotgun method of sequencing. Both parental lines of C. arietinum and C. arietinum wild and cultivar species gene sequencing was also achieved by shotgun method of gene sequencing (Millan et al., 2015). CDC frontier variety of Chickpea is the example of shot gun sequencing. Whole plastid genome of wild species is very important for understanding the phylogenic studies, crop improvement program and their function in increasing photosynthetic efficiencies. Selection of molecular marker for characterization of genetic diversity for economic purpose is very efficient and also improve the assessment of gene traits selection (Gusae & Petros 2018). In developing country like India carrying gene based technology work for developing new resistance cultivar is not much done because of some social, economical reason (Mehandi et al., 2015). International agency like ICRISAT has started work on semi arid areas of world launched crop improvement programs and generated more then 1800SSR markers of Chick pea (Jingade et al., 2014)\r\n \r\n','Sheeshpal, Suhel Mehandi, Harmeet S. Janeja, Mamta Choudhary and Nidhi Sharma (2022). Recent Trends on Genetic Variability and Diversity in Chickpea (Cicer aritenum L.). Biological Forum – An International Journal, 14(2): 1041-1044.'),(5000,'125','Recent Trends on Genetic Variability and Diversity in Chickpea\r\n(Cicer aritenum L.)\r\n','Sheeshpal, Suhel Mehandi*, Harmeet S. Janeja, Mamta Choudhary and Nidhi Sharma','178 Recent Trends on Genetic Variability and Diversity in Chickpea Suhel Mehandi.pdf','',4,'Intake of low nutritional food which does not contain enough number of proteins, fats, vitamins etc. it is very common in Asian countries. Condition of malnutrition can easily be seen in child under age of 5 and mostly in vegetarian population of India. In such case, genetical improvement of crop by increasing their nutrient content through genetic engineering has potential to overcome with this issue. Pulses are the best alternative of protein rich diet for people, nutritional content of pulses is much higher than that of cereals. There are many pulses crop like Moong bean, Urd bean, Lentil, Arhar and Chickpea. India is the largest grower or supplier of pulses in world it accounts overall 20% of food grain area under pulses. In this review we will discuss about the chickpea its characterization on the basis of origin, cultivation, morphology, genetic makeup, nutrition content etc.','Chickpea, variability, diversity, protein','For developing countries like India, Pakistan, Afghanistan etc. pulses are serving as major source of protein. Chickpea is cultivated in all over world and considered as second most important pulse crop. Because of less engagement of researchers and breeders Chickpea does not get enough advancement in genetical models. Major focus of researchers are in developing high yielding varieties according different agroclimatic zones and less in devastating pathogen or stress resistance species. Recently, most focused area researchers to develop new resistance cultivar against drought, salinity, heat and pathogens etc. Genetic characterization of Chickpea provides wider scope for advancement of Chickpea.','INTRODUCTION\r\nCicer arientinum L. commonly known as Chana and is known by different other names in different areas and localities. Chickpea is a self-pollinated crop having chromosome number 16 and belongs to family Fabaceae. In India, state to state local names of Chickpea varies. Chickpeas are most commonly grown kharif season crop in Northern India. Which is also known as Bengal gram, Chana, Chole, Kabuli Chana, Egyptian Pea etc. (Hajibarat et al., 2015). It is reported as originated in South Eastern part of Turkey and spread all over the world (Ahmad et al., 2010). It scientifically named “𝘊𝘪𝘤𝘦𝘳 𝘢𝘳𝘪𝘦𝘯𝘵𝘪𝘯𝘶𝘮” belongs to family Leguminosae and comprises of almost 43species among all only 9 are cultivated and seasonal others are perennial in nature. Chickpea is considered as third staple pulse crop after French bean and Field pea. The Chickpea is preferred to be grown in Rabi season in areas of good rainfall for higher yield and well adopted to be grown in semi-arid region. Sandy loam soil with good drainage is required for good cultivation of chickpea (Talebi et al., 2008). There are two types of Chickpeas grown in all over world one is Desi and other is Kabuli both are grown in Rabi season (Thudi et al., 2016). Chickpea is cultivated in an area of 13.2 m ha from this amount of area it accounts about 11.62 m tonnes per annum and is grown in more than 50 countries. The area and production wide India ranks first in position by producing 70% of world production. Chickpea is one of the most suitable crop for sustainable agriculture. Chickpea crop fixes atmospheric nitrogen having tap root system and also completes crop rotation with cereals. It seems like too good a fixer of nitrogen through its symbiotic association with Rhizobium it fixes about 140 Kg N/ha and meets 80% nitrogen requirement. The root of Chickpea goes too deep in the soil and makes lower layer of porous which promotes good aeration and water holding capacity of the soil. After harvesting a good amount of atmospheric fixed nitrogen as well other biomass of crop has remained in the field which promotes the soil quality. In India and other regions like the Middle east and South Asian countries. Chickpea provides a great source of proteins for vegetation peoples and provides protein content about 22%. Minerals like Magnesium, Calcium, Phosphorus and Lipids etc. in unsaturated fatty acids and fiber also present in good amount in Chickpea. The amount of Caretonoids present in Chickpea is high as compared to golden rice. Chickpea has no anti-nutritional factor like it does not suppress the level of other nutrients. Various kinds of acid exudates were released from the leaves of chickpea has a very beneficial role medicinally like in Snakebite, diarrhea, cholera, constipation, warts and sunstroke (Nisar et al., 2007). It is also used to reduce blood cholesterol levels and acts as a hypo-cholesteric agent. Both economic and biological parts of chickpea are important from a consumption point of view for humans and animals (Ahmad et al., 2012). Humans used it as flour after grinding, processed fruits and after harvesting the remaining part of the plant is used as a feed for livestock. Purple is the flower color of the desi type of chickpea because of the presence of pigment anthocyanin but in Kabuli type there is an absence of pigments, therefore the flowers are whitish in color (Sethy et al., 2006). The seed color of the desi type of chickpea is dark multi-colored and the seed coat is rough while Kabuli chickpea is white in color and the size is large as compared to the desi type of chickpea. Chick pea accounts 50% of area under total pulse production. It supported as best food for human and animal as well. Husk left after processing could be easily utilize as cattle food (Naghavi et al., 2012).\r\nChickpea is commonly classified into two groups which are as follows:\r\nDesi chana scientifically named as “Cicer arientinum L.”Gram grown under this group are most widely grown group and have color variation from yellow to brown (Sethy et al., 2006). Seed of this particular group is small in size. Height of plant are less and heavily branched with thick erect stem. Crop of this group required almost 145-150 days to attain maximum maturity (Sani et al., 2018). Total yield potential of per hectare is accounts 22-25 quintals. Kabuli chana scientifically named as “Cicer kabulium” Gram grown under this group are white in color and seed of this group are broad and well shaped. Plants of Kabuli \r\n(Cicer kabulium) are small but taller than that of Desi (Cicer arietinum) and heavily branched, flower color of this group plants is white (Bayraktar & Dolar, 2009). The crop of this group matures in 130-140days under well irrigated condition. Total yield potential of this group is reported about 25 quintals per hectare (𝘏𝘢𝘫𝘪𝘣𝘢𝘳𝘢𝘵 𝘦𝘵 𝘢𝘭., 2015). Chickpea is one of highest protein rich pulse ranges 10-12%, Fiber 9.6g, Carbohydrates 35g, Fat 3.5g, Calories about 200g and another micro nutrient also. Chickpea can be considered as plant-based protein food which is very good supplement for hairs, skin and building block of body (Ahmad et al., 2012).\r\nGenetic diversity of Chickpea. Characterization of genetic diversity of Chickpea (Cicer aritenum L.) and (Cicer kabulium) for carrying successful breeding program collection of germplasm is required. Genetical characterization of crop species are carried out by different biochemical, molecular method and genetical marker. The characterization done for identification of best variety, stability (Jingade et al., 2014). The molecular markers used for genetic characterization are generally neutral in nature, not restricted with age of tissue, adopted in all kind of environmental conditions use of this markers are more efficient (Ahmad et al., 2012).\r\nGermplasm collection of Chickpea. As global population rising and diamond for food and space will be expected to be increase in this race it causes major disturbance in ecosystem, extinction of various species of plants and animal as well (Bhagyawant and Srivastava, 2008). In this case conservation of germplasm is required to maintain sustainability and to protect integrity of species so, in future it could be use for development of new species, their improvement through in situ & ex-situ conservation, genetical modification, gene library etc. Germplasm stored in the bank sever as foremost source of raw material for crop improvement program (Hameed et al., 2009). In India very large gene bank is located in NBPGR New Delhi where about orthodox seed is 396189 representing 1584 species and it was started in year 1970. Both Indian and USDA collabrotedly started work of conserving germ plasma of chickpea in year 1970, where they had stored 7000 germplasm under Pulse improvement program. NBPGR adjoining with ICRISAT has collected wide number of species of Cicer. microphyllum from many countries like Turkey, Afganistan, Pakistan and Syria (Rairia et al., 2019; Mehandi et al., 2013).\r\nThe wild species collected from different continents of world are C. nuristanicum, C. microphyllum, C. macrocanthum, C. judaicum, C. reticulatum, C. pinnatifidum, C. yamashitae.\r\nCollection of these germplasm found very valuable for conservation of species for our coming future generation (Upadhyaya et al., 2011).\r\nGenetical markers and Gene Sequencing. Genetic modification or development of resistance against diseases through genetic process is done in wild species of Chickpea such as C. nuristanicum, C. microphyllum, C. macrocanthum, C. judaicum, C. reticulatum etc. Crop of chickpea is attacked by various pathogens such as fungi, bacteria, virus and nematodes like wilt, smut, blight and many more .One of most common diseases seen in Chickpea is fusarium wilt causal organism is Fusarium oxysporum cause most drastic damage to crop (Agarwal et al., 2012). The appearance of new strains of pathogens against pesticides, fungicides cause major problem for assessing the problem alteration of new variety with genetical modification against pathogen is required under which diseases resistance gene will be incorporated under DNA of plant further after field trails it will get available to farmers (Jain & Chattopadhyay 2010). \r\nCharacterization of gene. Annual Chickpea species C. reticulatum have been identified as most valuable species because it has ability to represent improved gene base for development of diseases resistance cultivated crop species Apart from diseases resistance genetic modification is also required for developing tolerance against biotic and a-biotic stress such as drought, water logging, salinity, heavy metal etc (Naghavi et al., 2012). For developing resistance or tolerance against biotic and abiotic stress selection of gene and its importation in wild and cultivated species is done through inter-specific hybridization. Under the situation of stress Plant adopt itself on morpho-physiological bases in such case identification of correct gene for particular stress become most important part of gene characterization. Under Crop improvement program have many integrated parts like selection and identification of gene, proper utilization, alteration through genetic process and breeding. Without molecular techniques it is most difficult part to identify correct trait, marker assisted selection and incorporation in wild species. Many group of researcher has identified to species of Cicer for genetical breeding from cultivar Cicer arientinum and from wild Cicer reticulatum because of their durability. Whole resequencing of genome was done through process of single nucleotide polymorphism (Bayraktar & Dolar, 2009). Improved genetic map with more advancement of 95% spacing achieve 3d in Desi type of chana. In case of kabuli, sequencing of gene map was done in through shotgun method of sequencing. Both parental lines of C. arietinum and C. arietinum wild and cultivar species gene sequencing was also achieved by shotgun method of gene sequencing (Millan et al., 2015). CDC frontier variety of Chickpea is the example of shot gun sequencing. Whole plastid genome of wild species is very important for understanding the phylogenic studies, crop improvement program and their function in increasing photosynthetic efficiencies. Selection of molecular marker for characterization of genetic diversity for economic purpose is very efficient and also improve the assessment of gene traits selection (Gusae & Petros 2018). In developing country like India carrying gene based technology work for developing new resistance cultivar is not much done because of some social, economical reason (Mehandi et al., 2015). International agency like ICRISAT has started work on semi arid areas of world launched crop improvement programs and generated more then 1800SSR markers of Chick pea (Jingade et al., 2014)\r\n \r\n','Sheeshpal, Suhel Mehandi, Harmeet S. Janeja, Mamta Choudhary and Nidhi Sharma (2022). Recent Trends on Genetic Variability and Diversity in Chickpea (Cicer aritenum L.). Biological Forum – An International Journal, 14(2): 1041-1044.');
INSERT INTO `pdf_upload` VALUES (5001,'125','Impact of Spacing and Nutrient Management Practices on Growth and Yield of Sweet Corn – Chickpea under Sequence Cropping','Pagar P.A.*, Pawar S.B., Gokhale D.N. and Patil D.K.','179 Impact of Spacing and Nutrient Management Practices on Growth and Yield of Sweet Corn – Chickpea under Sequence Cropping Pagar P.A.pdf','',1,'The field study was carried out at National Agricultural, Research Project, Aurangabad (M.S.) during two kharif -rabi seasons in 2019-20 and 2020-21 to analyse the impact of spacing and nutrient management on sweet corn (Zea mays L. saccharata)-chickpea sequence cropping. The experiment was planned in split plot design with three replications. The main factor consists of three spacing (60 × 20 cm2, 75 × 20 cm2 and 90 × 20 cm2 for sweet corn) while sub factors consist of three fertilizer levels (F1-160:60:60 NPK kg ha-1, F2-180:70:70 NPK kg ha-1, F3-200:80:80 NPK kg ha-1 to sweet corn) and two biofertilizer levels (B0 - No Bio-fertilizers and B1– Azotobacter/ Rhizobium+ PSB + KSB (10 ml each kg -1 seed). Sweet corn sown at wider crop geometry of 90 cm × 20 cm (S3) recorded higher growth and yield attributes but crop geometry of 60 cm × 20 cm (S1) recorded higher plant height, leaf area index and green cob yield (23.17 t ha-1) of sweet corn crop. Application of fertilizer level F3-200:80:80 kg NPK ha-1 recorded higher growth, yield contributing characters and green cob yield (21.41 t ha-1) of sweet corn but it was at par with fertilizer level F2-180:70:70 kg NPK ha-1. Seed inoculation of biofertilizers B1- Azotobacter + PSB + KSB (10 ml each kg-1 seed) at sowing recorded higher growth, yield attributing characters and green cob yield (20.92 t ha-1) over control or no biofertilizers seed treatment (B0) during both the years. The growth, yield contributing characters and yield at harvest of chickpea (rabi) was differed significantly due to the residual effect of sweet corn crop in kharif season during 2019-20 and 2020-21. Chickpea sown with 45 × 10 cm2 (S2) recorded highest growth and yield attributes but crop geometry of 45 × 05 cm2 (S3) recorded higher plant height and yield in chickpea crop but it was at par with 30 × 10 cm2 (S1) regarding plant height, growth, yield attributes and seed yield during both the years. Application of 200:80:80 kg NPK ha-1(F3) to sweet corn in kharif exerted remarkable effect on increasing the growth, yield attributes and yield however on par with 180:70:70 kg NPK ha-1 in chickpea crop (rabi) during 2019-20 and 2020-21. Seed treatment of bio inoculants i.e. B1– Rhizobium + Phosphorus solubilizing bacteria + Potash solubilizing bacteria each @10 ml kg-1 seed) at sowing recorded higher growth, yield attributing characters and yield, over control (B0) during both the years.','Sweet corn, chickpea, nutrient management, spacing, plant density, sequence cropping','Sweet corn sowing on 60 × 20 cm2 in kharif season followed by chick pea on 30 × 10 cm2 spacing in rabi season in sequence cropping receiving of 180:70:70 NPK kg ha-1 to sweet corn only (chickpea on residual nutrients after sweet corn) and seed treatment of Azotobacter (to sweet corn)/Rhizobium (to chick pea) + PSB + KSB (10 ml each kg-1 seed) to sweet corn and chickpea seed is optimum for higher seed yield of sweet corn – chick pea cropping system.','INTRODUCTION\r\nMaize (Zea mays L.) is a wonder crop arising as the third major prime cereal crop in the world succeeding to wheat and paddy with vast diverseness of uses and large concealed potential for investigation. Usually, maize is grown in totally seasons successfully as it is classified as C4 type crop due to the avail oneself of solar radiation more efficiently as compared to other cereals. It is universally called queen of cereals due to the extra genetic yield potentials than any other cereals complement. Sweet corn (Zea mays L. saccharata) is exceptional type of corn used for table purpose. Out of the some factors affecting the growth and yield of sweet corn, planting geometry and nutrient management plays a key role. It is an accepted fact that maximum grain yields and standard parameters are fundamentally depends on best crop density and sufficient nutrient supply. The best plant geometry provides finer conditions for plant growth resulting in opportune beginning of generative phase and emergence of sink. The initiation of a most favourable plant population per unit area of land is the related factor, which decides growth and yield of single plants. It is applicable that the soil should have the appropriate nutrients in desired quantities and in excellent percentage to match the recumbent of crop. Currently, higher significance is given to the cultivation of sweet corn due to expanding demand. The effective and rising trend to produce sweet corn at the financial level to build up the profit of the farming association habitat in the adjoining areas of huge cities and metropolitan area. Therefore, there is narrow opportunity to increase the area under sweet corn cultivation because of competition from other cereals and cash crops; the alone option is through enrichment of productiveness by different management factors. Furthermore, considerable maize area is under dry land bearings and accordingly endorsement of applicable planting method is also of extensive importance in getting good yield and quality. In addition, inter and intra row spacing and uniform nutrition of NPK is a principal ingredient of nutrient management and improving quality. Currently, the inorganic fertilizers are advised as the main source of nutrients. Between various nutrients, Nitrogen (N) is a fundamental or basic plant nutrient and a considerable determining factor required for maize production (Shanti, 1997). This is an extensive macronutrient which affects growth and yield of sweet corn. Phosphorus is a crucial secondary plant nutrient required for increasing maize yield (Onasanya et al., 2009). It also plays a major role in energy transmission in living cells by means of huge energy phosphate bonds of ATP. Potassium is an important nutrient and is also the most abundant cation in plants. It plays necessary roles in enzyme activation, protein synthesis, photosynthesis, stomatal movement, osmo regulation, energy transfer, phloem transport, cation-anion balance and stress resistance (Gul et al., 2015). Bio inoculants or Bio-fertilizers have an improvement over chemical fertilizers, as they provide nutrients in addition to plant growth build up substances like hormones, vitamins, amino acids etc. (Shivankar et al., 2000). Liquid biofertilizers is an appropriate formulation containing huge number of applicable microorganisms with large shelf life and zero contamination. They are cost effectual and as a source of plant nutrients to additive inorganic fertilizers. In addition, their major important role in atmospheric nitrogen fixation, potassium mobilization and phosphorous solubilisation, these also help in exhilarating the plant growth hormones providing improved nutrient uptake and increased resistance towards some environmental stress.\r\nMaize (Zea mays L.) – Chickpea (Cicer arietinum) is one of the important cropping systems in Aurangabad and Jalna district of marathwada region of Maharashtra and maintenance of optimum soil fertility is an important consideration for obtaining higher and sustainable yield. The response of the succeeding crops in a cropping system are influenced greatly by the preceding crops and the inputs applied therein. Therefore, recently greater emphasis is being laid on the cropping system as whole rather than on the individual crops in a sequence. Hence, there is a need to establish a relationship between plant densities, nitrogen, phosphorous, potassium and biofertilizers. In view of the above, present study is useful to increase the production efficiency of cropping system.\r\nMATERIALS AND METHODS\r\nThe field study was carried out at research section of National Agricultural, Research Project, Aurangabad during kharif -rabi seasons in 2019-20 and 2020-21. Experiment was carried out with sweet corn treatments in kharif season followed by chickpea treatments in rabi season on fixed site in split-plot design. Main plots were consisting of spacings (sweet corn spacings in kharif season: S1- 60 × 20 cm2; S2: 75 × 20 cm2; S3: 90 × 20 cm2 and chickpea spacing in rabi season: S1 - 30 × 10 cm2, S2 - 45 × 10 cm2; S3 - 45 × 05 cm2) and subplots consisting of three fertilizer levels (F1-160:60:60 NPK kg ha-1, F2-180:70:70 NPK kg ha-1, F3-200:80:80 NPK kg ha-1 to sweet corn and chick pea was grown on residual nutrients in rabi season after harvest of kharif sweet corn) and two biofertilizer levels (B0 - No Bio-fertilizers and B1- Azotobacter to sweet corn/Rhizobium to chick pea+ PSB + KSB @ 10 ml each kg -1 seed) with three replications. The sweet corn and chickpea were sown by dibbling method on 7th July, 2019 and 15th November, 2019 during first year and 18th June, 2020 and 15th October, 2020 during second year, respectively. At sowing basal dose of fertilizers, (one third of nitrogen, total dosage of phosphorus and potassium in the formation of urea, single super phosphate and muriate of potash were applied as per the treatments. Last one third and one fourth of nitrogen was given at 30 and 45 days after sowing (DAS), respectively. The climatic conditions were favourable during 2019-20 and 2020-21 seasons considering the growth and blossoming of sweet corn and chickpea which ultimately resulted in more accumulation of photosynthesis in both seasons. Biometric observations on growth parameters, yields ascribe and yield of sweet corn and chickpea was recorded during 2019-20 and 2020-21 of the study.\r\nEXPERIMENTAL FINDINGS AND DISCUSSION\r\nA. Effect of spacing on growth and yield contributing characters of sweet corn\r\nGrowth characters: Among the different plant density, significantly higher pooled mean plant height (215.29 cm) and leaf area index (2.45) was recorded with 60 × 20 cm2 (S1) spacing over 75 × 20 cm2 (S2) and 90 × 20 cm2 (S3) spacing at harvest. The increased sweet corn height and leaf area index in higher crop density might be due to dense plant stand. It distinctly advisable that increase in number of plants per unit area beyond superlative level definitely reduced the amount of light availability to the individual plant, especially to lower leaves due to shading. As the vigour of shadow increases due to more population, the plant tends to grow taller. Related finding is further reported by Ashwani et al. (2015); Bhatt (2012). Wider planting geometry of 90 × 20 cm2 (S3) recorded remarkable highest number of functional leafs plant-1 (14.39), crop growth rate (2.45gm-2 day-1) and dry matter accumulation of Sweet corn (278.25 g plant-1) over 75 × 20 cm2 (S2) and 60 × 20 cm2 (S1) spacing at harvest during pooled results. Wider plant geometry had produced more number of leaves, crop growth rate and dry matter accumulation per plant than narrow spacing that may be due to systematic consumption of growth assets such as sunlight, moisture and nutrients. These results are in line with Paygonde et al. (2008); Massey and Gaur (2006); Srikanth et al. (2009) in maize. Wider planting geometry of 90 × 20 cm2 (S3) recorded significantly lowest days to 50 % tasselling (52.19) and days to 50 % silking (57.83) over 75 × 20 cm2 (S2) and 60 × 20 cm2 (S1) spacing during pooled results.\r\nYield contributing characters: Number of green cobs per plant has not yet reveals any remarkable difference due to different plant densities. Significantly higher pooled mean values for the yield attributes viz., cob length with husk (26.64 cm), diameter of cob with husk (7.10 cm), cob weight with husk (298.58 gm), number of grains rows cob-1 (18.99) and number of grains cob-1 (507.61) were observed at wider planting geometry of 90 × 20 cm2 (S3) over 60 × 20 cm2 (S1) but at par with spacing of 75 × 20 cm2 (S2) for weight of cob with husk and number of grains per cob. This distinctly specified that plants at lower spacing completely utilize the natural assets efficiently, apart from responding to especially applied inputs. These finding confirm results of Sharanabasappa et al. (2017). Closer spacing of 60 × 20 cm2 (S1) produced significantly superior for green cob yield (22.41, 23.93 and 23.17 tha-1) over 75 × 20 cm2 (S2) and 90 × 20 cm2 (S3) spacing in first, second year and in pooled results. When plant population was further increased from 55,555 to 83,333 ha-1, the expansion in fresh green cob yield of sweet corn was mainly attributed more plant population per unit area and higher number of green cobs per unit area. At higher plant population of 83,333 ha-1 additional competiveness for assets occurred and lessen the utility of various yield contributing characters. These results in a row with the observation of Kar et al. (2006); Sahoo and Mahapatra (2004); Gaurkar and Bharad (1998); Sahoo and Mahapatra (2007).\r\nB. Result of fertilizer levels on growth and yield contributing characters of sweet corn\r\nGrowth Characters: Sweet corn crop receiving the fertilizer level 200:80:80 NPK kg ha-1 (F3) observed remarkable highest pooled mean height (211.84 cm), number of functional leafs plant-1 (14.03), LAI (2.30), CGR (15.51g m-2 day-1), dry matter accumulation (269.31g plant-1)as well as lowest pooled days to 50 % tasselling (51.25) and days to 50 % silking (56.68) over 160:60:60 NPK kg ha-1 (F1) however it was found at par with 180:70:70 NPK kg ha-1 (F2) during pooled results. All the growth characters positively responded to the increasing fertilizer levels. Increase in the fertilizer levels increased plant height, number of functional leafs, LAI, CGR and dry matter accumulation (g plant-1) this may have increased photosynthate formation and subdivide to stems that might have advantageous impacts on plant height of maize. Fertilizer levels show to be supercilious in keeping more leaves plant-1 than successive fertilizer levels. Similar results were reported by Kaledhonkar (2003); Kunjir (2004); Massey and Gaur (2006); Jat (2006); Sarma et al. (2000); Chougale (2003).\r\nYield contributing characters: Yield contributing characters viz. cob length with husk, diameter of cob with husk, cob weight with husk, number of grains rows cob-1 and number of grains cob-1 were significantly affect due to different fertilizer levels to sweet corn crop. The treatment with application of 200:80:80 NPK kg ha-1 (F3) produced remarkable longer pooled mean cob length with husk (26.44 cm), width of cob with husk (6.92 cm), cob weight with husk (302.67 gm), number of grains rows cob-1 (19.07), number of grains cob-1 (518.44) and highest green cob yield (21.41tha-1) at harvest over application of 160:60:60 NPK kg ha-1 (F1) and it was at par with application of 180:70:70 NPK kg ha-1 (F2). The application of 160:60:60 NPK kg ha-1 (F1) observed the above aforesaid yield attributes during pooled results and lower green cob yield during kharif 2019 and 2020 of investigation and in pooled data. Such observations were reported by Muniswamy et al. (2007); Suryavanshi et al. (2008). \r\nC. Impact of biofertilizers on growth and yield attributes of sweet corn\r\nGrowth Characters: Application of Azotobacter + PSB + KSB (10 ml each kg-1 seed) treatment (B1) recorded the significantly highest pooled mean plant height (207.39 cm), number of functional leafs plant-1 (13.81), LAI (2.22), CGR (15.28gm-2 day-1), dry matter accumulation (262.35g plant-1) as well as lowest pooled days to 50% tasselling (53.26) and days to 50 % silking (58.93) over control (B0). Such findings in the study are in similar with the findings of Rathi et al. (2005); Kumar et al. (2006).\r\nYield Attributes: The yield attributes viz.cob length with husk, width of cob with husk, cob weight with husk, number of grains rows cob-1, number of grains cob-1 and cob yield were substantial increase due to the seed inoculation of biofertilizers over control during both the years. The remarkable higher cob length with husk (26.04 cm), diameter of cob with husk (6.70 cm), cob weight with husk (297.30g), number of of grains rows cob-1 (18.67), number of grains cob-1 (499.37) and green cob yield (20.92tha-1) with seed treatment of bio fertilizers i.e. Azotobacter + PSB + KSB (B1) over control (B0) during pooled results. Similar results were also reported by Kumar et al. (2006); Mahato & Neupane (2017); Panchal et al. (2018); Biraris and Eugenia (2018).\r\nEffect of residual effect on chickpea crop: Chickpea crop sown with planting geometry 45 × 05 cm2 (S3) recorded higher plant height (49.52 cm) and seed yield (2124 kgha-1) and was on par with 30 × 10 cm2 (S1) in pooled results. However, remarkable higher number of branches (5.79), dry matter plant-1 (27.58 g), number of pods (50.81) and number of seeds per pod (1.43) were noticed in 45 × 10 cm (S2) in pooled results over 45 × 5 cm (S3) but at par with 30 × 10 cm2 (S1). Utilization of 200:80:80 NPK kg ha-1 (F3) to sweet corn in kharif season bring to bear outstanding effect on increasing the growth inputs such as plant height (50.16 cm), numerical branches (5.74), dry matter accumulation (26.42 g), numerical pods (50.53), number of seeds per pod (1.46) and seed yield (2068 kgha-1) but found statistically similar with application of 180:70:70 NPK kg ha-1 (F2) in chickpea crop (rabi) during pooled results. The seed treatment of bio inoculants i.e. B1– Rhizobium + PSB + KSB (10 ml each kg-1 seed) showed significant effect on growth and yield attributes viz., plant height (48.95cm), number of branches plant-1 (5.70), dry matter production plant-1 (25.37 g), number of pods (1.44) and seed yield (2025 kgha-1) over control (B0) during 2019-20 and 2020-21. Although more seed yield regarding chickpea crop obtained with residual effect of 200:80:80 NPK kg ha-1 but statistically on par seed yield received by the residual effect of 180:70:70 kg NPK ha-1 (F2). This was possible due to favourable carry over residual effect of treatments in increasing the chickpea growth anywhere in turn boosted yield and yield contributing characters which enhanced the seed yield. Such finding also observed by Meena et al. (2012); Mahapatra et al. (2018).\r\n','Pagar P.A., Pawar S.B., Gokhale D.N. and Patil D.K. (2022). Impact of Spacing and Nutrient Management Practices on Growth and Yield of Sweet Corn – Chickpea under Sequence Cropping. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 14(2): 1045-1050.'),(5002,'125','Effect of different Extracts of de-oiled Cakes and Organic Manures on Mycelial Growth Enhancement of Trichoderma harzianum in vitro','V. Govardhan Rao and H.S. Viswanath*','180 Effect of different Extracts of de-oiled Cakes and Organic Manures on Mycelial Growth Enhancement of Trichoderma harzianum in vitro H. S. VISWANATH.pdf','',1,'Application of talc based formulations of bio-control agents without any nutrient base may yield sometimes disappointing results under field conditions due to lack of nutritional support for the growth of bio-agent thereby quick decline in shelf life and viability of bio-agents apart from incurring extra costs on carrier material. Instead, cheaper alternatives like de-oiled cakes and other organic manures can be utilized as substrates for nutrient base for supporting the growth and multiplication of bio-agents as well as fulfilling the requirement of carrier material. So, in the present study, different aqueous extracts of de-oiled cakes and organic manures at 10 and 15 per cent concentrations were evaluated to check the compatibility as well as growth enhancement effect of organic amendments against fungal biocontrol agent, T. harzianum under in vitro conditions. Among nine aqueous extracts, neem cake exhibited maximum increase in mycelial growth obtained from the mean of three and five days after inoculation (DAI) by showing an increase of 39.22 percent and 67.88 percent over un-amended control at 10 and 15 percent concentrations respectively followed by Mustard cake showing an increase in mean mycelial growth of about 39.28 percent and 62.59 percent over un-amended control at 10 and 15 percent concentrations respectively which were highly significant to rest all other treatments. The next best treatments were safflower cake showing an increase in mean mycelial growth of 28.51 percent and 57.73 percent followed by groundnut cake (63.48mm) exhibiting the mean mycelia growth of 28.01 percent and 57.17 percent more over un-amended control at 10 and 15 percent concentrations respectively. However, the remaining organic amendments soya cake, cotton cake, Vermicompost, goat manure and poultry manure recorded comparatively less mean mycelial growth enhancement at both the concentrations tested respectively. It was found that increase in the concentration of organic amendment also increased the rate of growth of bio-agent in all treatments of de-oiled cakes and organic manures.','Trichoderma harzianum, aqueous extracts, de-oiled cakes, organic manures, compatibility','Compatibility test of different aqueous extracts of de-oiled cakes and organic manures at ten and fifteen per cent concentrations against Trichoderma harzianum revealed that at both concentrations tested, neem seed kernel cake enhanced the maximum mycelial growth followed by mustard cake. These were followed by safflower cake, groundnut cake and soya cake. Treatments viz., cotton cake, vermicompost, goat manure and poultry manure recorded comparatively less mean growth enhancement at both the concentrations tested. Moreover, it was found that rate of mycelial growth enhancement was increased with increase in the concentration of de-oiled cakes and organic manures','INTRODUCTION\r\nTrichoderma spp. are cosmopolitan in distribution which are frequently present in all types of soil, manure and decaying plant materials (Alexander, 1978). Trichoderma spp. are strong opportunistic invaders, fast growing, prolific producers of spores and powerful antibiotic producers (Singh et al., 2009).\r\nTrichoderma spp. are important in designing effective and safe management strategies. Many species of Trichoderma have multiple strategies for fungal antagonism and indirect effects on plant health (such as plant growth promotion and fertility improvements). Some strains are potent antibiotic producers and their suitability for use in biocontrol systems must be carefully assessed. Trichoderma as bio-agent have evolved numerous mechanisms for both attacking other fungi and enhancing plant growth.\r\nTrichoderma is used for better management of various foliar and soil borne plant pathogens. Seed treatment with T. pseudokoningii and T. harzianum reduce the seed mycoflora, enhance the germination and vigour in forest trees such as Dendrocalamus striuctus, Phyllanthus embtica, Hardwickia binate and Dalbrgia latifolia. These bio control agents (T. pseudokoningii and T. harzianum) have also been found to be superior over other treatments like chemical, physical and plant extracts (Mamatha et al., 2000). Due to their excellent effectiveness, species of Trichoderma spp. are generally used as biocontrol agents against plant diseases.\r\nMany potential bio control agents could not be moved from the experimental phase to a commercialization phase due to incompatibility with current production methods. Any bio-control agent must be effective and compatible with modern agricultural practices so that its use can be integrated into the production system.. Trichoderma spp. are ecofriendly and cheap fungal bio control agents used for suitable management of various foliar and soil borne plant pathogens (Khandelwal et al., 2012). The ability of Trichoderma spp. to control plant diseases by mycoparasitism and through production of wide range of antagonistic substances and its role in growth promoters has been known for many years (Harman et al., 2004). The success of bio control agent depends on the clever blending of bio control agent with suitable carrier material or substrate for their multiplication and longevity apart from reducing the cost of carrier material. Most of the bio-formulations available in market were talc based formulations. Instead, cheaper and better alternative to talc based formulations are needed for sustainable agriculture and integrated disease management. Keeping this in view, the present study was under taken by evaluating different extracts of de-oiled cakes and other organic manures for their compatibility with bio-agent by providing support for the growth and multiplication of bio-agent as well as fulfilling the requirement as a carrier material. \r\n\r\n\r\nMATERIAL AND METHODS\r\nAs per the procedure given by Dhingani et al. (2013), aqueous extracts of neem seed cake, castor cake, cotton seed cake, vermicompost, Farm Yard Manure (FYM) etc., were prepared as mentioned in below treatments. Forty grams of each organic amendment was suspended in a conical flask in 150 ml of sterilized distilled water and kept for 15 days. Every day, the flasks were shaken to thoroughly mix and dissolve the content. The extract was strained through muslin cloth after 15 days and then filtered in 150 ml using Whatman filter paper No-41. Conical flasks were sterilized for 20 minutes in autoclave at 121°C. The autoclaved extracts were tested against test pathogen using poisoned food technique by mixing in Potato dextrose agar (PDA) medium at concentrations of ten and fifteen percent (Vincent, 1927). For each treatment, three replications were maintained. According to the formula given by Dennis and Webster (1971) percent inhibition of mycelial growth was estimated. The mycelial growth readings were taken after three and five days after inoculation.\r\n \r\nWhere, \r\nI = Per cent inhibition of mycelial growth; C = Colony diameter in control (mm); T = Colony diameter treatment (mm); \r\nExperimental details:\r\nDesign: Completely Randomized Design (CRD); Replications: Three; Treatments: Ten. \r\nRESULTS AND DISCUSSION\r\nThe results (Table 1, Fig. 1, and Plate 1) indicated that all the aqueous extracts of oil cakes and organic manure had significant positive effect on Trichoderma harzianum at both the concentrations tested. It was observed that enhancement in the growth of Trichoderma harzianum was noticed with the simultaneous increase in concentration of extract.\r\nAt 10 per cent concentration, aqueous extracts of neem cake and Mustard cake were highly significant in enhancing the mycelial growth of Trichoderma harzianum at three days after inoculation (63.51 and 63.73mm) and five days after inoculation (74.57 and 74.41mm) with a mean growth (69.04 and 69.07mm) respectively. Moreover, neem cake (47.22 percent and 33.03 percent) and Mustard cake (47.74 percent and 32.75 percent) shown greatest level of growth enhancement at three and five DAI respectively with a mean growth enhancement of 39.22 and 39.28 per cent over un-amended control. However, these two treatments were at par with each other.\r\nThe third and fourth superior treatments were safflower cake (54.44 and 74.21 mm) which accounts for 26.20 percent and 32.40 percent increase in mycelial growth followed by groundnut cake (53.26 and 72.52 mm) with 23.47 percent and 29.38 percent increase in mycelial growth over un-amended control.\r\nThe remaining treatments that also exhibited substantial aggravated effect on the growth of Trichoderma harzianum viz. were soya cake (52.23 and 73.51mm), vermicompost (51.69 and 66.04mm), goat manure (51.59 and 66.29mm), poultry manure (49.96 and 66.62mm) and cotton cake (48.98 and 65.49mm) with mean mycelial growth of 62.87, 58.86, 58.94, 58.29 and 57.23 mm respectively over control after three and five DAI. So with these treatments were shown the recognized growth increase as in soya cake (21.08 and 31.14 percent), Vermicompost (19.82 and 17.81 percent), goat manure (19.61 and 18.28 percent), poultry manure (15.83 and 18.85 percent) and cotton cake (13.53 and 16.84 percent) respectively after three and five DAI with a mean growth increase of 26.78, 18.69, 18.85, 17.54 and 15.41 per cent (Table 1, Fig. 1 and Plate 1).\r\nResults obtained from 15 per cent concentration of aqueous extracts of organic amendments were a way forward, where, neem cake and mustard cake were found to be highly significant by encouraging the mycelial growth of T. harzianum after three DAI (79.43 and 87.08 mm) and five DAI (76.71 and 84.55 mm) with mean mycelial growths of 83.25 and 80.63 mm respectively. Moreover, neem cake and mustard cake have shown greatest level of growth acceleration after three DAI (84.13 and 77.82 percent) and five DAI (55.36 and 50.84 percent) with a mean increase of 67.88 and 38.49 per cent compared to un-amended control. \r\nThe third and fourth superior treatments at 15 per cent concentration of aqueous extracts were safflower cake (74.37 and 82.07 mm) and groundnut cake (72.22 and 83.67 mm) with a mean of 78.22 and 77.94 mm after three and five DAI respectively. Similarly, growth encouragement showed by safflower cake (72.40 and 46.43 percent) and groundnut cake (67.42 and 49.28 percent) were significant with a mean increase of 57.73 and 57.17 per cent after three and five DAI respectively.\r\nThe remaining treatments were shown substantial enhancement effect against the Trichoderma harzianum, viz., Soya cake (71.88 and 78.74 mm), Vermicompost (68.46 and 76.03 mm), goat manure (67.92 and 74.39 mm), poultry manure (65.93 and 74.35 mm) and cotton cake (48.20 and 30.82 mm) with a mean increase of 75.31, 69.98, 70.16, 71.40 and 68.62 mm respectively over control after 3 and 5 DAI. Similarly, these treatments were shown the recognized growth increase as in soya cake (66.64 and 40.47 percent), Vermicompost (58.71 and 35.64 percent), goat manure (57.44 and 32.72 percent), poultry manure (52.83 and 32.64 percent) and cotton cake (48.20 and 30.82 percent) after three and five DAI with an increase in mean mycelial growths of 51.87, 41.12, 41.48, 43.98 and 38.37 per cent respectively (Table 1, Fig. 1 and Plate 1).\r\nFindings of the present study suggest that mustard oil cake at the lowest concentration appeared to be compatible with T. harzianum. The experimental results were in concurrence with previous reports. Organic amendments enhanced the shelf life of bioagents by increasing spore count due to the continuous food supply and comfortable environment with other physiological parameters (Pan et al. 2006; Zaidi and Singh, 2004; Mishra et al., 2009). The Plant based products, organic amendments, crop residues, green manures can dramatically affect soil microbial communities, and are primary drivers of soil microbial dynamics (Rashidul Islam et al., 2013). Peerzada et al. 2020 evaluated different types of organic amendments in combination with bio-agent Trichoderma as soil application and found that all organic amendments helped in the multiplication and growth of Trichoderma sp. which in turn helped in the reduction of late blight disease in potato. Higher colony forming unit (CFU) count and shelf life was reported with various deoiled cakes and cereal grains when used as substrates (Singh et al., 2020).\r\nPromotive effect of neem aqueous extract may be due to triterpene (azadirachtin) which acts by delaying the transformation of ammonium nitrogen into nitrate nitrogen (Ruben et al., 2011). The slow nitrogen conversion led to continuous availability of nitrogen which was required for the organism to grow (Siddiqui et al., 2008). Moreover, Organic amendments like Poultry compost contains NH4-N and NO3-N supplied to resident soil micro organisms tend to exploit NH4+ more quickly than plants and then proliferate rapidly (Barakat et al., 2013). The findings were in agreement with other investigators (Dutta and Das 1999; Islam et al. 2002; Nahar and Bhuiyan 2003). Sivan et al. (1984) also reported that T. harzianum can grow on different agricultural waste products. \r\n','V. Govardhan Rao and H.S. Viswanath (2022). Effect of different extracts of de-oiled Cakes and organic manures on Mycelial growth enhancement of Trichoderma harzianum in vitro. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 14(2): 1051-1055.'),(5003,'114','Correlation and Path Analysis for Yield and Yield Contributing Characters in Groundnut (Arachis hypogaea L.)','O.D. Korale*, M. V. Dhuppe, S. S. Patil, N. G. Gite and S. B. Mirkad','6 Correlation and Path Analysis for Yield and Yield Contributing Characters in Groundnut _Arachis hypogaea L._ O.D. Korale.pdf','',1,'The purpose of this study was to determine the amount of correlation and path analysis. During the kharif of 2020, 30 genotypes of experimental material were examined at the Oilseeds Research Station in Latur. On July 1, 2020, the material was planted in a RBD with two replications. Observations were recorded for ten characters viz., days to 50% flowering, days to maturity, plant height, number of mature pods per plant, pod yield per plant (g), kernel yield per plant (g), shelling percentage, 100-kernel weight, sound mature kernel (%) and oil content (%).The number of mature pods per plant, kernel yield per plant, and 100 kernel weight all exhibited a highly significant positive relationship with pod production per plant, according to correlation studies. Days to 50% flowering, plant height, shelling percentage, and oil content, on the other hand, had a non-significant negative relationship. In terms of pod production per plant, path coefficient analysis indicated a strong positive direct influence of kernel yield per plant, followed by number of mature pods per plant, 100 kernel weight, sound mature kernel, and days to 50% flowering.','Positive correlation, Negative correlation, Direct path analysis, Indirect path analysis','Much variability is present in the material for all the characters which can be used in the future by simple selection. All the promising genotypes obtained were early in days to 50 per cent flowering, days to maturity with maximum, number of pods per plant, kernel yield per plant and 100 kernel weight. The characters with high GCV, PCV, heritability and genetic advance as per cent of mean such as number of pods per plant, kernel yield per plant, 100 kernel weight and pod yield per plant will be better responded for selection.\r\nThe trait number of kernel yield per plant should be considered as the best character for improving pod yield per plant because of its nearly equal values of direct effects and correlations with pod yield per plant. Characters having high magnitude of positive indirect effects such as days to days to maturity, sound mature kernel per plant and 100-kernel weight should be considered simultaneously for selection for the improvement of pod yield per plant.\r\n','I. INTRODUCTION\r\nThe annual legume cum oilseed crop groundnut (Arachis hypogaea L.) is also known as peanut, earthnut, monkeynut, and moongfali (hindi). It is the world\'s 13th most significant food crop and the fourth most important oilseed crop. It is a member of the Fabaceae family that is native to South America (Brazil) and is widely grown in tropical, subtropical, and mild temperate climates across the world. It\'s a self-pollinating annual legume that\'s segmental allotetraploid (2n=40). The oil content of the groundnut kernel is 40-50 percent, the protein content is 22-30 percent, and the carbohydrate content is 10-20 percent. The kernels are an excellent source of all B vitamins (B1, B2, B3, B6) except B12 and are low in water soluble A and Vitamin C. Phosphorus, calcium, and magnesium are abundant in groundnut kernels, as are micronutrients such as ferrous, zinc, and potassium. It\'s also utilised as animal feed (oil pressings, green and dry haulms) and as a raw material in the manufacturing industry (for oil cakes and fertilizers). Oilcake contains 7.3 percent nitrogen, 1.5 percent P2O5, and 1.3 percent potassium. The groundnut shell is commonly utilised as a fuel source as well as a litter source for poultry and livestock. Estimates of correlation between yield and other characteristics are important in deciding which plant kinds to breed and in planning an effective breeding programme. The variables are said to be correlated when a change in one produces a commensurate change in the other variable in either direction. The correlation coefficient indicates the degree of genetic or non-genetic connection between two or more characteristics used in selection. Correlation studies are critical in this setting for choosing better genotypes. Although correlation studies do not provide a perfect picture of causality, i.e. the relative relevance of direct and indirect impacts of various component characteristics on yield, they do provide an indication of their relative importance. Wright\'s (1921) path co-efficient analysis simplifies the splitting of correlation coefficients into direct and indirect effects of factors on the dependent variable. In order to isolate superior genotypes, criteria created following the study of character association and route analysis would be beneficial [18].\r\nII. MATERIALS AND METHODS\r\nDuring the kharif of 2020, the current research was carried out at the Oilseed Research Station in Latur. 30 groundnut genotypes were acquired from the Oilseeds Research Station in Latur for the study. During the kharif of 2020, genotypes were seeded at the Oilseeds Research Station\'s research farm. The experimental material was tested in two replications in a Randomized Block Design (RBD) under rainfed conditions during the kharif of 2020. Dibbling was used to sow the seeds, with a 30 cm row spacing and a 10 cm plant spacing, respectively. In each treatment and replication, observations were made on five randomly chosen plants. Plant height (cm), number of mature pods per plant, pod yield per plant (g), kernel yield per plant (g), Shelling percentage, Sound mature kernel (percent), 100 kernel weight (g), and Oil content (percent). Except for the border rows, the plants were chosen from the centre of the row. For all 10 yield and yield contributing characteristics utilised in the analysis, the replication means based on chosen plants were employed. The study was based on Panse and Sukhatme\'s (1985) proposed paradigm [12]. Based on analysis of variance, the phenotypic and genotypic components of variances were calculated [8]. As recommended by Allard, heritability in the wide sense (h2bs) was estimated using equation (1960). Using the formula proposed by Allard, the predicted genetic advance (GA) under selection was calculated (1960).\r\nIII. RESULT AND DISCUSSION\r\nCorrelation Analysis Studies: A study of the relationship between yield components and yield is important for selecting features that have a clear influence on yield and may benefit in breeding material selection. Through correlation, a greater knowledge of the role of such characteristics in forming the genetic composition of the crop may be gained. In general, genotypic correlations were higher than phenotypic correlations. This might be owing to the genotypes\' greater stability, given the bulk of them have been exposed to some kind of selection [9]. Correlation studies are used to determine the appropriateness of several characteristics for indirect selection, because selection on one feature might result in undesired changes in other characters. The correlation estimations derived for ten groundnut yield component characteristics are described in the following study. Table 1 shows the relationship between pod yields per plant and several yield characteristics, as well as the qualities themselves.\r\nThe traits number of mature pods per plant, pod yield per plant, kernel yield per plant, and 100 kernel weight all had a negative non-significant relationship with the character days to 50% flowering. Plant height, number of mature pods per plant, Sound mature kernel, and oil content were all found to be similar [10, 17]. According [2, 17], this trait had a negative significant relationship with pod production per plant. The number of ripe pods per plant, kernel production per plant, and 100 kernel weight all exhibited a non-significant positive relationship with days to maturity. Kumari et al. (2020) [10] for number of mature pods per plant, kernel yield per plant, and 100 kernel weight, Babariya & Dobariya [3] for number of mature pods per plant and 100-kernel weight, and Wadikar et al. (2018) [17] for 100-kernel weight. This characteristic has a non-significant negative relationship with pod yield per plant. Wadikar et al. (2018) [17]; Kumari et al. (2020) [10] obtained the same result. The number of mature pods per plant, kernel yield per plant, 100 seed weight, sound mature kernel (percent), and pod yield per plant all had a negative non-significant relationship with plant height. Wadikar et al. (2018), Kumari et al. (2020) [8]; Raghuwanshi et al. (2015) [13]. Kernel yield per plant, 100-kernel weight, and pod yield per plant all exhibited a strong positive relationship with the number of ripe pods per plant. Kumari et al. (2020) [10]; Wadikar et al. (2018) [17] for kernel yield and pod yield, and Solanki et al. (2019) [15] for pod yield per plant all agreed with these findings. The attribute kernel yield per plant was shown to have a strong positive relationship with the number of pods per plant and the 100-kernel weight. This feature exhibited a strong positive correlation with pod yield per plant [8, 10]. Days to 50% flowering, 100 kernel weight, oil content, and sound mature kernel all exhibited a non-significant positive relationship with shelling. For 100-kernel weight, [6, 8, 10] for oil content, Wadikar et al. (2018) [17] for sound mature kernel, [5] for days to 50% flowering. Similar results were reported by Giri et al. (2018) [6] when they looked at the negative correlation for pod production per plant. Days to kernel yield per plant and pod yield per plant both exhibited a strong positive relationship with 100-kernel weight. This characteristic was shown to be positive significant connection with pod yield per plant, in agreement with [8]; Wadikar et al. (2018) [17], both of whom found a positive significant association. The number of mature pods per plant, kernel yield per plant, and pod yield per plant all had a non-significant positive relationship with the character sound mature kernel (percent).For day to maturity, [8, 17] found similar findings, as did Channayya et al. (2011) [7] for pod yield per plant. Days to 50% blooming, days to maturity, kernel yield, 100-kernel weight, and pod yield per plant all exhibited a non-significant negative relationship with oil content. The same results were found by John et al. (2015) [8] for kernel yield per plant and Solanki et al. (2019) [15] for pod yield per plant. The number of mature pods per plant, kernel yield per plant, and 100-kernel weight all had a positive significant relationship with pod production per plant. Days to 50% flowering, plant height, oil content, and shelling percentage all had a non-significant negative correlation with this characteristic, whereas days to maturity and sound mature kernel had a positive non-significant association. Number of matured pods per plant, kernel yield per plant, and 100-kernel weight may be considered extremely closely linked features with pod yield per plant based on magnitude of correlation coefficient values. As a result, applying selection pressure on any of these characteristics might result in a greater yield.\r\nPath Analysis Studies: Days to 50% flowering had a favourable direct influence on pod yield and a negative correlation. As a result, based on this character, selection is undesired. These findings were accepted by Raza et al. (2018) [14]. Days to maturity had a negative direct influence, but the positive association with pod yield per plant is owing to the greater positive indirect effects of days to 50% flowering and kernel yield per plant. As a result, indirect causal elements are taken into account while making a decision. For this characteristic, [8, 11] reported comparable results. The direct effect of plant height on pod yield per plant was positive, but the negative correlations were attributable to unfavourable negative indirect effects. As a result, restricted simultaneous selection is used to eliminate the unwanted indirect effects. These findings matched those of Ganvit (2018) [5]; Raghuwanshi et al. (2015) [13]. The number of mature pods per plant had a positive direct influence and a positive association with pod production per plant, suggesting that this characteristic was useful for selection. These findings matched those of Ganvit et al. (2018) [5]. Kernel yield per plant had a strong direct beneficial influence and a favourable connection with pod yield per plant. This characteristic indicates the efficiency of selection. These findings matched [3, 6, 8, 14]. Negative direct impacts of the trait number of shelling % on pod yield per plant were seen, however the negative correlations were attributable to unfavourable negative indirect effects. As a result, restricted simultaneous selection is used to eliminate the unwanted indirect effects. These findings [6, 10]. The weight of 100 kernels showed a direct positive effect and a positive association with pod yield per plant. These findings matched [4, 16]. Direct effects are nearly identical to correlation coefficients in this example, demonstrating a real link and efficacy of direct selection via this characteristic. The efficiency of selection through this characteristic was demonstrated by a favourable direct effect and a positive association with seed yield. Giri et al. (2009) [6]; John et al. (2009) [8] reported similar results (2015). Oil content had a strong negative direct influence on pod yield per plant, as well as a negative association. As a result, using this character to make a selection will be useless. Mandal et al. (1017) [11] published these findings (2017). At both the genotypic and phenotypic levels, a significant number of residual effects were identified, showing that other characteristics contribute to pod yield per plant in addition to those studied in this work.\r\n','O.D. Korale*, M. V. Dhuppe, S. S. Patil, N. G. Gite and S. B. Mirkad (2022). Correlation and Path Analysis for Yield and Yield Contributing Characters in Groundnut (Arachis hypogaea L.). International Journal of Theoretical & Applied Sciences, 14(1): 22-25(2022) '),(5004,'125','Evaluation of locally available mounting materials on the rearing performance of mulberry silkworm, Bombyx mori L.','N.A. Ganie, Shabnum Fayaz, K.A. Dar, Asif Rafiq Rather, Ishfaq Ahmad Bhat*, Mir Rashid and I.L. Khan','181 Evaluation of locally available mounting materials on the rearing performance of mulberry silkworm, Bombyx mori L. Ishfaq Ahmad Bhat.pdf','',1,'Six different mounting materials viz., Mulberry shoot mountage, Dried grass mountage, Typha grass mountage, Maize straw mountage, Wicker willow shoot mountage and Plastic collapsible mountage (control), were evaluated during the course of the present study. Maize straw mountage was found to be excellent for most of the cocoon parameters viz., single cocoon weight (1.8g), single shell weight (0.430g), cocoon shell percentage (23.8%), Silk productivity (6.14cg) and pupation rate (93.11%). The reeling parameters viz., average filament length (1068m), non-breakable filament length (476m), denier (2.64), raw silk percentage (16.28%) and reelability (82.35%) were also found better in newly designed Maize straw mountage. From the studies, it is concluded that maize straw can be used as an alternative mounting material for spinning cocoons by silkworm larvae with good success so that farmers can get good remuneration for their produce. The study is going to help in promoting sericulture in the tribal areas where these mounting materials are available in abundance. With this cost-effective mounting technology at their doorsteps the poor and marginal sericulture farmers can expect quality cocoon production which will help in their socio-economic upliftment by way of better remuneration for their produce.','Bombyx mori L., mounting material, post cocoon, silk','The present study reveals that Plastic collapsible mountage are still performing better for most parameters of silkworm, Bombyx mori L. However these mountages are not readily available with the farmers owing to their high cost. Maize straw mountage which is easily available in every household in rural areas of Kashmir also performed excellently in most of the parameters and was at par with Plastic collapsible mountage for the recorded traits. The current study underlines maize straw mountages as an alternative mountage for silkworm rearers of J&K in view of its availability and eco-friendly nature besides being cost effective.','INTRODUCTION\r\nSilkworm Bombyx mori L. spins silken armour around its body for protection during its metamorphosis, which forms the economical part i.e., silk. Spinning is important for satisfying silkworm’s physiological requirement by excreting amino acids from the body (Henry, 1984). To exploit the commercial nature of these amino acids exuded in the form of silk thread, the silkworms are domesticated and made to spin on artificial substrate which supports spinning and these structures are called mountages. The mounting material used for spinning of cocoons must be easily available, economically viable and providing adequate space for cocooning (Tanaka, 1964). It is quite evident that the mounting material or mountage plays an important role for successful seriposition (Singh et al., 2012). It has been observed that if the silkworm crop is healthy but wrong mounting methods, spinning conditions and bad type of mounting material can result in inferior or poor quality cocoons and silk yarn leading to lower income to farmers (Singh et al., 2011). It has also been observed when material and structure of the mountage are not proper, the reelability of the cocoons is reduced and other features like double cocoons, deformed cocoons and soiled cocoons get increased (Mathur and Qadri 2010). It has been observed that sericulture farmers in this part of the country are suffering huge cocoon crop losses at the terminal stage of silkworm rearing on account of using faulty mountages. Thus it was felt extremely essential to identify and develop the locally available and cost effective mountages to help the farmers to realize the full benefits of their hard labour.\r\nMATERIAL AND METHODS\r\nThe present investigation entitled “Evaluation of locally available mounting materials on the rearing performance of mulberry silkworm, Bombyx mori L.” was carried out during 2021 in the Division of Cocoon Crop Production at College of Temperate Sericulture, Mirgund. Silkworm rearing was conducted as per the standard package of practices (Rajan, 2000). Procurement of the mounting material was done from the reliable sources and processed to render it free from moisture and any other contamination. Five different mountages viz., mulberry shoot mountages, dried grass mountages, typha grass mountages, maize straw mountages and wicker willow shoot mountages were designed in such a way so as to create appropriate slots for cocoon formation (Plate 1).\r\n\r\nRESULTS AND DISCUSSION\r\nStatistical analysis of the data revealed that there exists significant differences with regard to average filament length. Among the evaluated mountages Plastic collapsible mountage (control) recorded maximum (1099m) average filament length which was at par with Maize straw mountage with average filament length of 1068 meters. The average filament length recorded by other treatments include: Typha grass mountage (1025m), Mulberry shoot mountage (1022m), Dried grass mountage (1013m) and Wicker willow shoot mountage (966m) (Table 1). This receives support from the findings of Haroon et al., (2018) who while evaluating different mountages has come up with the similar findings.\r\nThere was non-significant effect of the treatments on the non breakable filament length. However maximum non-breakable filament length of 533m was observed in case of plastic collapsible mountage followed by Maize straw mountage with non-breakable filament length of 476 meters. The non-breakable filament length recorded by other treatments include: Typha grass mountage (475m), Dried grass mountage (472m), Mulberry shoot mountage (465m) and Wicker willow shoot mountage (456m) (Table 1). The effect of different mountages on the denier of silkworm Bombyx mori L. was found to be non-significant, however, among the evaluated mountages Plastic collapsible mountage (control) recorded least (2.60) denier followed by Maize straw mountage with denier of 2.64. Denier recorded by other treatments include: Typha grass mountage (2.84), Dried grass mountage (2.86), Mulberry shoot mountage (2.87) and Wicker willow shoot mountage (2.89) (Table 1).\r\nStatistical analysis of the data revealed that there exists significant differences with regard to reelability. Among the evaluated mountages Plastic collapsible mountage (control) recorded maximum (84.12%) reelability followed by Maize straw mountage with reelability of 82.35 percentage. Reelability recorded by other treatments include: Typha grass mountage (81.92%), Mulberry shoot mountage (79.80%), Dried grass mountage (79.30%) and Wicker willow shoot mountage (76.97%) (Table 1). These results are in conformity with the findings of Haroon et al., (2018) who evaluated five different types of locally available plant material and came up with the similar findings.\r\nReeling analysis of the samples revealed that significant differences exist with respect to reelability percentage. Maximum reelability of 84.12 percent was observed in case of plastic collapsible mountage which was at par with maize straw mountage with reelability of 82.35 percent. These results are in line with the findings of Haroon et al. (2018) who evaluated five different types of locally available plant material and came up with the similar findings. There was a significant difference among treatments with regard to raw silk percentage, Maximum raw silk percentage of 16.97 per cent was recorded in case of plastic collapsible mountages which was at par with maize straw mountage with raw silk percentage of 16.26 per cent. According to Shillin Sangappa et al. (2010) the structure of cocooning frame is believed to play a major role in quality of raw silk which is evidenced by the present investigation too.\r\n','N.A. Ganie, Shabnum Fayaz, K.A. Dar, Asif Rafiq Rather, Ishfaq Ahmad Bhat*, Mir Rashid and I.L. Khan (2022). Evaluation of locally available mounting materials on the rearing performance of mulberry silkworm, Bombyx mori L.. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 14(2): 1056-1059.'),(5005,'125','Comparative Studies on Growth Performance of Thermophilic Campylobacters Isolated from Wild Animals on different Culture Media','Nawal Kishor Singh*, A. K. Upadhyay, Maansi, Rajesh Kumar, Aman Kamboj, T.K. Ambwani, Himani Sharma, Namita Shukla and Ajay Kumar','182 Comparative Studies on Growth Performance of Thermophilic Campylobacters Isolated from Wild Animals on different Culture Media Nawal Kishor Singh.pdf','',1,'Campylobacter species are one of the important foodborne zoonotic bacterial pathogens triggering enteritis in domestic, wild captive and non-captive animals as well as birds that spreads through different environmental sources as water, feed, meat and milk. In the present study comparative isolation and identification of Campylobacter jejuni and Campylobacter coli was attempted from faecal samples of wild animals during the year 2020-2021. A total of 430 faecal samples were collected from zoos/wild life sanctuaries and national parks of Uttar Pradesh, Uttarakhand and Chhattisgarh states. Since thermophilic Campylobacters- target bacteria are microaerophilic and fastidious in nature, require specific temperature and nutrition for its optimum growth, hence to find out the suitable selective media, present study was designed. After aseptic collection, processing and primary isolation, growth of identified Campylobacters were assessed on five artificial media, broadly categorized into blood free and blood containing media. The overall positivity of Campylobacter spp. was 59 of 430 (13.72%) with Campylobacter jejuni (7.67 per cent) and Campylobacter coli (6.05 per cent). After enrichment, plating on CBA with selective supplement yielded a significantly higher (P<0.05) prevalence (4.65%) of Campylobacter species. No significant differences could be observed in mCCDA (3.72%) and BA (3.48%). Least isolation observed on CA (2.0%) and HCCA (1.16%). Multiplex PCR results confirmed speciation as well as sensitivity of each culture methods. As the majority of Campylobacter spp. were isolated by CBA with selective supplement. Hence, this may be the method of choice for isolation of Campylobacter species because of presence of hemin in sheep blood as oxygen quenching agent.','Campylobacter; Foodborne pathogens; Culture media; Multiplex PCR; Prevalence; mCCDA','The recovery of Campylobacter spp. is very tedious and time consuming task owing to the presence of multifaceted micro-flora in faecal samples as well as fastidious and microaerophilic nature of Campylobacter spp. It takes 3-5 day in confirmation of a faecal sample. For isolation of Campylobacter species from faecal samples of wild animals pre-enrichment in PBS and enrichment in Bolton broth as well as CBA selective media were found very suitable method for accurate prevalence assessment. In case of unavailability of sheep blood facility charcoal based mCCDA media can be used. In India, majority outbreaks of foodborne disease go unreported, unrecognized or un-investigated and may only be noticed after major health or economic damage has occurred. In such a condition controlling the outbreaks, detection and removal of implicated foods, identification of the factors that contribute to the contamination, growth, survival and dissemination of the suspected agent, prevention of future outbreaks and strengthening of food safety policies and programmes is not possible. Hence a regular monitoring and surveillance system like European countries in needed to combat foodborne diarrhoeal diseases in India.','INTRODUCTION\r\nAlong with Salmonella, Campylobacter is one of the important zoonotic foodborne bacterial pathogen that causes diarrhoeal disease in human and animals (WHO, 2020; Garcia et al., 2018). Campylobacter is one of the most frequently occurring bacterial agents of gastroenteritis. The true incidence of gastroenteritis due to Campylobacter spp. is poorly known, particularly in Low and Middle Income Country (LMIC); studies in 3 per 1000 population (WHO, 2012). The pathogen can be transmitted to human via food, water and through contact with farm animals and pets (Elbrissi et al., 2017). The Campylobacter organism is characterized by possessing Gram-negative, spiral, non-spore forming rods that form spherical or coccoid bodies in older cultures (Penner, 1988). They are between 0.2 to 0.9 microns wide and 0.5 to 5 microns long, are motile and usually move with a polar unsheathed flagellum at one or both ends, and are microaerobic with a respiratory-type metabolism, although there are some that grow aerobically or anaerobically (Fitzgerald and Nachamkin, 2011). Campylobacter is a fastidious organism generally requiring specific atmospheres and temperatures to grow, uses menaquinones as their respiratory quinones, does not ferment or oxidize carbohydrates but requires microaerophilic environment (5% O2, 10% CO2 and 85% N2) for growth and isolates causing human gastroenteritis are primarily of the thermotolerant variety which can also grow at 42°C–43°C (Vandamme and De Ley, 1991). Present study is based on the assessment of different artificial media for Campylobacter isolation and identification.\r\nMATERIALS METHODS\r\nSample collection and culture. A total of 430 faecal samples of wild animals including mammals and birds were collected during April 2020 to March 2021 from six Zoos and National parks/Sanctuary of Uttarakhand (n=2), Uttar Pradesh (n=2) and Chhattisgarh (n=2), province of India (Table 1). All samples were processed immediately in the department of Veterinary Public Health and Epidemiology, College of Veterinary and Animal Sciences, GBPUA&T, Pantnagar, Uttarakhand, India as per ISO 10272-1:2017(E) guidelines and put for pre-enrichment in Buffered peptone water for overnight at 42°C in CO2 incubator with 5 % CO2 supply, after that enrichment of samples were done in Bolton broth (Hi-Media, Mumbai, India) supplemented with 5% sterile lysed defibrinated sheep blood and FD231 supplement (Hi-Media, Mumbai, India) to be incubated micro-aerobically in CO2 incubator at 42°C for 48 hours. After primary isolation of Campylobacter species five artificial media were assessed, which were broadly categorized into two group- blood free and blood containing media.\r\nCulture Media. Blood free media were Modified Charcoal Cefoperazone Deoxycholate Agar (mCCDA) and Hi-chrome Campylobacter agar (HCCA) while blood based media were Columbia blood agar (CBA), Sheep blood agar (BA) and chocolate agar (CA).\r\nFor mCCDA agar media, CCDA selective supplement (FD135, Hi-Media, Mumbai, India) was added to the basal agar as per the manufacturer’s instructions. Briefly, 22.74 gm of basal medium was suspended in 500 ml of distilled water and dissolve uniformly by boiling, sterilized by autoclaving at 15 lbs pressure (121°C) for 15 minutes and the media were cooled to 45-55°C, then added aseptically rehydrated contents of 1 vial of CCDA selective supplement (FD 135), mixed well and poured into sterile Petri plates (90x15 mm, Genaxy, Solan, Himachal Pradesh, India). For preparation of HCCA agar medium, 1 vial of a selective supplement FD078 (Hi-Media) was added to 29.77 gm HCCDA basal medium in 500 ml distilled water and further were processed same as mCCDA media prepared. \r\nFor Columbia blood agar (CBA) media, 44.0 gm of CBA basal medium was added in 1000 ml of distilled water, dissolve properly by heating and sterilized by autoclaving, cool down the medium to 45-55°C, 5% v/v sterile defibrinated sheep blood was added, then rehydrated content of Campylobacter growth supplement (FD009) was added and poured about 25 ml into each sterile Petri plate (size 90 × 15 mm, Genaxy, Solan, H. P., India).\r\nFor, Sheep blood agar (BA) media, 10 per cent defibrinated sheep blood and one vial rehydrated content of Campylobacter growth supplement (FD009) were added in 14.0 gm of Nutrient agar (Hi-media) in 500 ml distilled water. Cooling, sterilizing and pouring into sterile Petri plates were done same as in CBA media.\r\nFor making Chocolate Agar media, all steps will be same as in Blood Agar media except in place of autoclaving; media were heated at 80°C for 10 minutes with constant agitation. After sterility testing of all prepared media were kept at 4° C and used within 3-4 days.\r\nCulture on media\r\nAfter pre-enrichment and enrichment, the obtained isolates were inoculated in mCCDA, HCA, CBA, BA and CA media and incubated in CO2 incubator (New Brunswick, Germany) which were maintained 5 per cent CO2 supply and 42°C temperatures. The incubation was done for 48-72 hrs period. Suspected and well-isolated colonies were subcultured onto the same media for purification which were checked by Gram’s staining and all presumed colonies were further identified by standard biochemical tests as oxidase test, catalase test, Hippurate hydrolysis test, Campylobacter nitrate reduction test, urease test and H2S production on TSI test methods (Atabay and Corry, 1997). Biochemically positive isolates were grown in Tryptone soya broth and aliquoted in 4.5 ml cryo-vials with 20 per cent sterile glycerol and preserved in -80°C for future use.\r\nCampylobacter speciation. On the basis of colonies appearance, staining properties and biochemical results, positive isolates were further confirmed through multiplex PCR (Shams et al., 2017) after DNA was extraction (Ertas et al., 2004).\r\nStatistical Analysis. The prevalence data of Campylobacter spp. recovered from each culture media was statistically compared by one way analysis of variance followed by least significance difference (DMRT). The analyses were carried out by using SPSS version 26 statistical programme. \r\nRESULTS AND DISCUSSIONS \r\nAll the suspected Campylobacter isolates were identified on the basis of their colonies characteristics, motility test, inability to grow in aerobic condition at 36°C temperature and Gram’s staining features. Campylobacters colonies were small (1-2 mm), circular, flat to slightly raised, sticky, spreading, shiny grey coloured or water droplets on mCCDA, CBA, BA and Chocolate agar plates while in HCA plates Campylobacter species appear mauve to purple coloured colonies. The organisms appeared as pink coloured Gram-negative rod, spiral curved rods with comma shaped (S) or gull wing appearance cells. The similar colonies characteristics were also recorded by Monika (2014), and Garhia, (2017). The recovery rate of Campylobacter spp. in this study was higher (Table 2) in CBA culture media than that of mCCDA, HCA, BA and Chocolate agar culture method studied. The overall positivity of Campylobacter spp. was 13.72% (59/430) with Campylobacter jejuni (7.67 %) and Campylobacter coli (6.05 %) agreeing with findings of Acke et al. (2009). After enrichment, plating on CBA with selective supplement yielded a significantly higher (P<0.05) prevalence as 4.65% of Campylobacter species. The similar observations were also reported by Hutchinson and Bolton (1984). However, we could observe 3.72% recovery on mCCDA as reported by Roma (2019); Ansari (2021); Corry and Atabay (1997); and 3.48% on BA (Byrne et al., 2001) showing none significant differences (Table 3) and they are followed by CA (2.0%) as also reported by Aspinall et al. (1996) and on 1.16% HCCA (Humphrey et al., 2007). Multiplex PCR results confirmed its speciation as well as sensitivity of each culture methods. As the majority of Campylobacter spp. were isolated by CBA media with selective supplement. It was also found that pre-enrichment and an enrichment step reduces the transport stress and enhances the recovery of Campylobacter spp than either direct plating or filtration on to selective media. Since CBA showed higher recovery rate of Campylobacter spp (P<0.05), hence it might be more accurate blood based assessment method for the actual prevalence of Campylobacter spp. in the sampled population. In blood free method mCCDA would be comparatively better for assessment of Campylobacter spp prevalence. In both the method - CBA and mCCDA, hemin (Fe3+) and charcoal respectively act as source of energy and oxygen quenching agent, which is needed for growth and microaerophilic environment.\r\n','Nawal Kishor Singh, A.K. Upadhyay, Maansi, Rajesh Kumar, Aman Kamboj, T.K. Ambwani, Himani Sharma, Namita Shukla and Ajay Kumar (2022). Comparative Studies on Growth Performance of Thermophilic Campylobacters Isolated from Wild Animals on Different Culture Media. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 14(2): 1060-1063.'),(5006,'125','Evaluation of new Molecule Fungicides against Finger Millet (Elusine coracana (L.) Gaertn.) blast (Pyricularia grisae) (Cooke) Sacc.','M. Rajesh*, A. Sudha, P.T. Sharavanan and A. Nirmalakumari','183 Evaluation of New Molecule Fungicides against Finger Millet _Elusine coracana _L._ Gaertn._ blast _Pyricularia grisae_ _Cooke_ Sacc. M. Rajesh.pdf','',1,'Finger millet (Elusine coracana (L.) Gaertn.) plays an important role in the dietary habits and economy of semiarid tropic farmers. Production was affected by some economically important disease like blast caused by Pyricularia grisea, that drastically reduce its production and causing considerable losses every year. The pathogen has breakdown of resistance within short period by develop new pathogenic races causes’. Thus, attempts have been made to manage blast disease in different crops by using different new molecule fungicide groups (eleven fungicides) belonging to two different concentrations (0.1 and 0.2%) were tested their efficacy under in vitro condition against blast pathogen using poison food technique. Tricyclazole 75%WP @ of 0.1% effectively inhibited the Pyricularia grisea mycelial growth to an extent of 76.67% over control.\r\nThe field experiments were conducted based on the in vitro studies during rabi, 2020 and rabi, 2021. Among the 13 treatments, Tricyclazole 75%WP (first spray at the time of blast incidence, second spray 10 to15 days after first spray @ 1 g/lit) recorded less incidence of leaf, neck and finger blasts also recorded the B:C ratio as 1:2.00 in both the seasons. \r\n','Finger millet, fungicide, antibiotics, Pyricularia grisea, Tricyclazole','All the new molecule of fungicides recorded considerable yield increase. Among that, Tricyclazole is the effective component of the new molecule fungicide to control the blast pathogen in all the cereal crops. Fungicides are effective component for the management of pathogens like Pyricularia grisea has the ability to overcome the resistance by developing new pathogenic races within few years or seasons. Generally millets are low value crops, resistant variety, seed treatment, time of sowing; good agricultural practices are the key component to compact the blast diseases, even though certain conditions they may prevail under field conditions. In that situation, the fungicide spray at the time of disease occurrence effectively controls the pathogen in an economic way as indicated present article. Fungicides are one of the unavoidable, essential bricks to build the integrated disease management practices especially pathogens like Pyricularia. The component of the integrated management practices may change in future based on the reaction of the pathogen. ','INTRODUCTION \r\nFinger millet was introduced from Ethiopian highlands to India around four thousand years ago as original native (Anon., 2012). India is the primary producer of finger millet, which is primarily grown in the states of Tamil Nadu, Karnataka, Andhra Pradesh, Maharashtra, Uttar Pradesh, Bihar, Orissa and Gujarat. It account together for 98% and 95% of the total production and cultivation area of finger millet in the country (Sonnad, 2005) respectively. Finger millet is having rich calcium source, around 10 folds that of wheat or rice. Unlike wheat and rice that require important inputs in terms of soil fertility and water, millets grow well in dry state as rain-fed crops (Michaelraj and Shanmugam 2013). \r\nGenerally diseases are the major limitations in production of finger millet. Totally, 25 fungal, 4 viral, 5 bacterial and 6 nematode pathogens have been recorded on this crop (Mundhe, 2005). The most important constraint in the production of finger millet in all the millet-growing regions of the world is blast disease caused by the fungus Magnaporthe oryzae (Magnaporthe oryzae) B. Couch (anamorph: Pyricularia oryzae Cavara); synonym Magnaporthe grisea (Hebert Barr) (Zhang et al., 2016) and causes yield losses around 28 % (Vishwanath and Seetharam 1989), however in a conducive climate it may go higher to 80 - 90 % (Ramappa et al., 2002). \r\nThe most capable, feasible, eco-friendly and low cost method to control the plant diseases is grow the resistance variety. Patro et al. (2018) understand the inheritance of resistance to Pyricularia grisea by attempts are being made to develop resistance finger millet lines. However, host plant resistance is the key factor to manage the rice blast disease. Pyricularia grisea has breakdown of resistance within few years by develop new pathogenic races causes’ (Ahn, 1994). Thus, attempts have been made to manage blast disease in different crops by using fungicides (Pagani et al., 2014). While, old generation fungicides like carbendazim, ediphenphos etc., were found to be effective against blast diseases however, the advanced and new molecule fungicides spray at the time of incidence was lacking. Considering these facts in view, in vitro studies and field trials were conducted to manage all the three types of blasts (leaf, neck and finger) of finger millet by using new molecule of fungicides.\r\nMATERIALS AND METHODS \r\nIsolation of Pathogen (Pyricularia grisea). To isolate the pathogens from symptomised parts of the leaves were cut in to 2mm size pieces with sterilized scissors. Those pieces were surface sterilized by using 1% sodium hypochloride for 1 minute, followed by two successive cleaning with sterilized distilled water. Then they were kept in clean sterile petridish containing three layers of moistened blotting paper. The samples were then incubated at 25 to 26°C for one day. From the sporulating lesions on the leaf sample, single conidia were transferred to separate sterilized culture tubes of agar slants. Spreading conidia from the discrete lesions on 4% water agar with the help of aseptic inoculating needle under stereomicroscope to get single spore isolates. Transfer the germinating conidia aseptically to agar plate. The plate was incubated at 25± 2°C for 72-96 hours under incubator.\r\nIn vitro evaluation of fungicide against finger millet blast. Various chemical groups of eleven fungicides at two different concentrations (0.1 and 0.2%) were tested for their efficacy under in vitro condition against Pyricularia grisea by using poison food technique (Nene and Thapliyal 1979). The fungicides concentrations taken were those of active ingredients present in commercial formulation. The required quantities of each test fungicides were incorporated in a 250 ml conical flask containing 100 ml of molten finger millet leaf extract agar (FLEA) medium so as to get required concentration in per cent (%). The poisoned medium was well shaken and poured in to sterilized petriplates in 20 ml each. On solidification of the medium, the plates were inoculated in the centre by placing 5 mm diameter mycelial disc cut by the help of cork borer from 15 days old actively growing P. grisea grown on FLEA medium. Each concentration of respective fungicide were maintaining three repetitions and incubated at 25±10°C temperature under B.O.D. The observations on mycelia growth of fungus were recorded at 24 hours interval up to full growth reached in control petriplate. Vincent (1927) illustrated the per cent growth inhibition (PGI) of the pathogen over control was worked out by using following formula,\r\nPGI = 100 (DC -DT)/ DC\r\nWhere, PGI = Per cent growth inhibition \r\nDC = Average mycelial diameter growth in control plate (mm) \r\nDT = Average mycelial diameter growth in fungicide treated plate (mm). \r\nManagement of Pyricularia grisea under field condition. Based on the results of in vivo studies, the field experiments were conducted during the rabi, 2019 and rabi, 2020 at Centre of Excellence in Millets, Athiyandal (12° 23N, 70°02E, 280 m asl) against Pyricularia grisea. The finger millet variety CO (Ra) 14 was sown with standard plot size of 5 × 3 m, implementing the recommended spacing and dosage of fertilizers. \r\nIn the present investigation the treatments are framed to test the efficacy of new molecule fungicides (Tebuconazole 50% + Trifloxystrobin 25 W, Tricyclazole + Mancozeb 62% WP, Isoprothiolane 40% EC, Azoxystrobin + Difenconazole, Propiconazole) as it is unique combination of systemic and contact fungicide were tested with standard checks (Tricyclazole 75%WP, Carbendazim 50%WP and Carbendazim + Mancozeb) with bacterial antagonist (Bacillus subtilis) and antibiotics (Kasugamycin, Blasticidin and Aureofunginsol) were used to comparison studies under field condition. The trial is design as randomized block design (RBD) with three replications to find out the management of blast in finger millet under field condition. After observing the leaf blast incidence, treatment spray was carried out and second spray 10-15 days after first spray. The leaf blast (50 DAS), neck blast (Flowering stage) and finger blast (Maturity stage) disease incidence and grain yield were recorded. \r\nBlast disease assessment: The occurrences of leaf blast in individual leaves were recorded by using 1–9 scale Standard Evaluation System (SES). The neck blast and finger blast severity (%) were enumerated across all the panicles in each replication and treatment. Total number of infected neck and finger were counted and disease incidence % was worked out by using the following formula as followed in All India Co-ordinated Research Project on Small Millets (AICRP-SM) 27th Annual Group Meeting, 2016 (Patro et al., 2020).\r\nEconomic appraisal (B:C ratio) of treatments. Economic analyses of each treatment were worked out on input costs and returns basis. Total returns were calculated by marketable yields of grain and fodder obtained in each treatment. The cost of bio-control agent and fungicides used per treatment and spraying cost of fungicides were estimated. The increase in grain and fodder yield over control was assumed to be exclusively due to the treatments effect. For that reason, partial budgeting was used to magnify the profit per hectare for each treatment. The profit was worked by deducting the treatment cost from additional income derived from yield increase above control (Untreated). Costs of land preparation, sowing, weeding, fertilizer application, irrigation and harvesting were incorporated in the partial budgeting. Benefit-cost ratio, was calculated as \r\n \r\nStatistical analysis of the experiment. The experimental data statistical analysis was carried out by adopting the standard method (Gomez and Gomez, 1984). The spray treatments impact was observed by analysis of variance (ANOVA) of randomized block design (RBD). Data of neck blast and finger blast were arcsine transformed before analysis. \r\nRESULTS AND DISCUSSION \r\nIn vitro studies. The results indicated that Tricyclazole 75%WP @ of 0.1% effectively controlled the Pyricularia grisea mycelial growth to an extent of 76.67% over control. Followed by Tricyclazole + Mancozeb 62%WP @ of 0.1 per cent treatment inhibited the mycelial growth to an extent of 75.56% over control (Table 1). Both treatments are on-bar with each other; however Tricyclazole as the effective component of the fungicide to control the blast pathogen under in vitro condition. \r\nThe fungicides evaluation under in vitro condition against rice blast pathogen, Pyricularia grisea showed that tricyclazole + tebuconazole (36% SC), tebuconazole 25% SC, hexaconazole 5% EC, zineb 68% + hexaconazole 4% WP and tebuconazole 50% + trifloxystrobin 25% WG inhibited completely the growth of fungus and germination of fungal spores in all concentration (Kavanashree et al., 2019). Neelkanth et al. (2017) revealed that carbendazim, tricyclazole and trifloxystrobulin + tebuconazole of all concentrations were found to be effective against blast pathogen showing 100% inhibition of mycelial growth under in vitro condition. \r\nField studies. In the Active Tillering stage (30-35 DAS), leaf blast incidence occurred in all the plot (up to 8 grade). At the time of incidence the spray treatment were carried out and observations taken on flowering stage or 50 DAS. Among the 13 treatments, including the new molecule of fungicides, Tricyclazole 75%WP (T3 - first spray at the time of disease incidence, second spray 10-15 days later @ 1 g/lit) recorded less incidence of leaf, neck and finger blasts in both the trials. It reflected in high grain yield during rabi 2019 and 2020. Followed by Tricyclazole + Mancozeb 62%WP spray (T4) treatment recorded the lesser incidences of finger millet blasts. Antibiotics and bio-control agents are showed the least recovery of blast incidences under field conditions (Table 2&4). \r\nThe Tricyclazole, sole and also as constituent new molecule fungicides are effectively controlled the finger millet blast pathogen under field conditions. Both the treatments are on-bar with each other. In this condition the B:C ratio analyzed through partial budgeting method. All the new molecule of fungicides recorded considerable yield increase than bio-control agent and antibiotics (1:1.40 to 1:1.50). Tricyclazole alone (T3) recorded as 1:2.00 and combined with Mancozeb (T4) recorded as 1:1.98 during rabi, 2019 and 2020 (Table 3&5 Chart 1). \r\n New generation chemical, Tricyclazole can offered effective management against rice blast pathogen (Singh et al., 2000). Similar report of Raj and Pannu (2017) also showed the managing rice blast pathogen by Tricyclazole and Propiconazole under field condition and Mohiddin et al. (2021) reported that the Tricyclazole was most effective against rice blast and recorded a leaf blast incidence of only 8.41%. Neelkanth et al. (2017) found that tricyclazole, was found drastically controlling the pathogen with the lowest PDI (Per cent Disease Index), in addition significant increase in the yield was observed in tricyclazole sprayed plots as compared to other fungicides. In rice ecosystem, fungicides proved very effective control against Pyricularia oryzae (Dutta et al., 2012; Prajapati et al., 2004; Sood and Kapoor, 1997). For pearl millet blast, Carbendazim and Tricyclazole showed effective control under in vivo conditions (Joshi and Gohel 2015; Lukose et al., 2007). On the other hand, rice blast pathogen isolates showed differential sensitivity to Tricyclazole and Carbendazim (Yuan and Yang, 2003; Mohammad et al., 2011). \r\n','M. Rajesh, A. Sudha, P.T. Sharavanan and A. Nirmalakumari (2022). Evaluation of New Molecule Fungicides Against Finger Millet (Elusine coracana (L.) Gaertn.) blast (Pyricularia grisae) (Cooke) Sacc.. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 14(2): 1064-1071.'),(5007,'125','An Exploration of Perceived Situational Factors Responsible for the Variability in Coconut Production in the Coastal Belt of Kerala','Akshaya M.V.*, J. Pushpa, K. Ramakrishnan and M. Radha','184 An Exploration of Perceived Situational Factors Responsible for the Variability in Coconut Production in the Coastal Belt of Kerala Akshaya MV.pdf','',1,'Kerala is unique in its agriculture which is characterized by minuscule holding, homestead farming, and dominance of perennial crops. The present study was conducted to explore the situational factors perceived by the farmers for the variability in coconut production. The study was conducted in two coastal blocks namely Thalikulam and Chavakkad in the Thrissur district of Kerala. A total of 120 farmers were selected by using proportionate random sampling method. The study concluded that farmers perceived, the severity of pests and disease (68.33 %) as the major factor squashing the productivity of palms followed by the paucity of labourers and high labour charges (59.16 %). The coconut sector of Kerala is facing unnumbered hassles and suggestive steps like effective implementation of coconut rejuvenation programmes, ensuring distribution of quality planting materials, integrated disease and pest management, etc are to needed to be taken to reinstate the eminence of the coconut sector of Kerala.','Situational factors; coconut; production variability; coastal belt','The study revealed that the majority of the farmers perceived the severity of pests and disease attacks, labour scarcity and high labour charges, and frequent price crash as the vital factors responsible for production variability. All these factors have led to shrinkage of the area under coconut. Coconut growers opined that maintenance of palms has turned into an arduous venture. The coconut sector of Kerala is facing unnumbered hassles hence it is suggested that steps like the effective implementation of coconut rejuvenation programmes, ensuring distribution of quality planting materials, integrated disease and pest management, procurement of coconut by Krishi Bhavan, promotion of value addition and export, etc are needed to be taken to reinstate the eminence of the coconut sector of Kerala. The findings of this research can help policymakers, such as governments and agencies, plan and implement strategies to increase the area and production of coconuts, and thereby productivity.','INTRODUCTION \r\nCoconut (Cocos nucifera) plays a remarkable role in the agrarian economy of Kerala. Everything from culture to cuisine is entangled with coconut. The name Kerala is supposed to be originated from the Malayalam word ‘Kera’ which means coconut tree and ‘Alam’ means land and altogether represents the ‘land of coconut trees’. Coconut has been the primary source of livelihood for decades. Considering the multifaceted nature of the crop and the innumerable uses of its products, the coconut palm is being praised as KALPAVRIKSHA (Tree of Heaven). Coconut is a source of food, beverage, medicine, natural fibre, fuel, wood, and raw materials for units producing a variety of goods. \r\nIn India, more than 90 per cent of the total coconut production is from four major coconut growing southern states i.e., Kerala, Tamil Nadu, Karnataka, and Andhra Pradesh. Coconut was always considered as a symbol of rural prosperity and for many years the state ranked first in area and production years ago. The area under coconut has been shrinking and palm gardens are being subjected to fragmentation into housing plots and for construction. Kerala is gradually losing its supremacy in coconut cultivation. Kerala’s, monopoly and unique dominance with regard to the area of cultivation and production of coconut have been declining even in the early phase of the 21st century. (Kappil et al., 2021). The declining trend in the graph of area and production shows that farmers refuse to continue the cultivation due to several reasons. Coconut growers are suffering a crisis as they find it strenuous to manage the palm on a remunerative basis. Local labour shortages and increased regional competition had a strong impact on Kerala\'s coconut production, market, and processing, which varied from region to region (Sportel and Veron 2016).\r\nOf the numerous maladies that confront coconut productivity, coconut root (wilt) disease, stem bleeding, mahali etc are utmost concern. Diseases like stem bleeding and Thanjavur wilt were more prevalent in areas experiencing high temperature and low rainfall whereas, the incidence of bud rot disease was significantly higher in hilly regions where low temperature and high humidity prevailed which causes yield reduction (Chandran et al., 2017). Though various technologies have been developed by coconut research institute there exists that wider between the recommended practices and actual level of adoption (Jaganathan et al., 2017). Weather aberrations like the unannounced monsoon, high temperature, etc are also playing a significant role in the reduction of yield. The climate change will affect coconut plantation through higher temperatures, elevated CO2 concentration, precipitation changes, increased weeds, pests, and disease pressure. The threat of climate change is found to be more in coastal areas and hilly tract of India where plantation crop like coconut is the predominant crop (Hebbar et al., 2016).\r\n The high fluctuation price of coconut ranked first among the major constraints faced by the various stakeholders in coconut production and marketing. In addition to that daily price fluctuation resulting from an unstable market was the other problem faced by the farmers regarding coconut marketing (Kalidas et al., 2020). The coconut sector in the state is being confronted by countless challenges and curbs. In this context, it is a prerequisite to probe situational factors that are perceived by farmers as the plausible reason for the variability in coconut production. The present study was undertaken with the objective of exploring and probing out the perceived situational factors responsible for the variability in coconut production in the coastal belt of Kerala.\r\nMATERIALS AND METHODS\r\nThe study was conducted in Thrissur District of Kerala, situated in the central part of that state, covering an area of about 3032.00 sq. km and it constitutes 7.8 percent of the total area of the state. Thrissur district lies between 10º10\' and 10º46\' North latitude and 75º57\' and 76º 54’ east longitudes. Of the 16 blocks, two coastal blocks namely Thalikulam and Chavakkad were purposively selected for the study based on the area under coconut production. Seven villages were selected from the two blocks and a total of 120 respondents were selected by using proportionate random sampling method. \r\nIn the present study Ex-post-facto research design was used. Semi-structured interview schedule was employed for data collection. The situational factors as perceived by the farmers were finalized by using open-ended questions. Factors, as perceived by all the farmers were probed and a separate list was framed. Farmers were left free to add as many items as possible. The responses were recorded and assigned scores 1 and 2 for No and Yes respectively. The analysis was done with the help of percentage analysis and finally ranking was given.\r\nRESULTS AND DISCUSSION \r\nFactors responsible for coconut production variability as perceived by the farmers. Farmers perceived several factors for production variability and all those were probed and the most relevant items were used for the study.\r\nThe severity of pests and diseases. The results delineated in Table 1 shows that about 68.33 per cent of the farmers of the study area perceived the severity of pests and diseases as the major factor accountable for the production variability. Farmers opined that considerable yield loss due to pest and disease attacks was more incessant on their plantation. Farmers often fail to differentiate the symptoms of pest and diseases attack. Incidence of diseases like Root wilt, Tanjore wilt, stem bleeding and pests like rhinoceros beetle, coreid bug, coconut black headed caterpillar etc are more common in the coastal belt of Kerala.\r\nSimilarly study of Kokkadan et al., (2014) reported that O. arenosella, which feeds on the leaves by scraping the chlorophyll matter, causes the leaf to dry up and the entire palm to seem scorched. \r\nThe paucity of laborers and high labour charges. From Table 1, it can be inferred that worsening scarcity of laborers and high labour costs (59.16%) were reported as the next umpteen challenges faced by coconut growers of the area. This led to untimely harvests of coconut, irregularity in the base opening, application of fertilizers, etc. The hesitation of the young generation to take up this job due to social stigma can be attributed to the ground cause of the labour scarcity.\r\nThese findings are in with the Anithakumari (2013) stated that about Seventy - eight per cent of respondents recorded scarcity of labour. Social taboos linked with reputation, more drudgery compared to other jobs, poor earnings compared to workers in service industries, shift in role and relevance of farming as a livelihood alternative, and so on were cited as reasons for labour scarcity among farmers.\r\nFrequent price fluctuations. The result depicted in Table 1 indicates that 56.66 per cent of the farmers reported Frequent price fluctuations as the major problem in their area. In the price behaviour of coconut, seasonal variations, and recurrent and irregular variations are common. A steady fall in price and periodic price crash compels the farmers to shift to other crops which require a minimum investment and ensure better returns in a short duration.\r\nSimilarly, Preeti et al. (2019) claimed that one of the most distressing features of the coconut economy of Kerala during the past two decades was the frequent price fluctuations of coconut and its products.\r\nUnstable markets and Poor marketing information. From Table 1, it can be concluded that nearly 49.16 per cent of the coconut growers demarcated unstable markets and poor marketing information as the vital factor. The most distressing hallmark of the coconut economy is the lack of persistent markets. The sale of the coconut immediately after harvest becomes troublesome for the growers. Farmers are supposed to sell the produce to the buyers for the minimum price offered due to poor marketing information.\r\nHigher cost of crop protection chemicals and other inputs. Forty-four per cent of farmers (Table 1) in the study area perceived the higher cost of crop protection chemicals and inputs as the prime factor for variability in coconut production. Coconut plantations when turned into the hub of endemic diseases and pests it became necessary to use the appropriate pesticides for timely control. The higher cost limits the farmers from purchasing the protection chemicals and timely control remains unsolved.\r\nNo premium price for graded produce and Delay in price settlement. From Table 1, it could be observed that among the various factors no premium price for graded produce and delay in price settlement (39.16 %) were portrayed as one of the major factors contributing to the production variation by the farmers. The bulk amount of produce in the single harvest is the peculiarity of palm. Farmers do not receive payment in time and this in turn is reflected in the management of the plantation. Farmers gradually give less care and reduce the frequency of fertilizer application, harvesting, etc. \r\nNon-adoption of the scientific method of cultivation. About 35.83 per cent of the farmers (Table 1) perceived non-adoption of the scientific method of cultivation as the other major factor for coconut growers. Coconut yields heavily when properly cared for and managed. Though farmers know the package of practices, many of them are not interested to adopt most of the technologies which were mainly due to a hike in the cost of various farm inputs and a reduction in output price.\r\nSimilarly, Chandran and Joseph (2015) pointed out that while the majority of farmers irrigated at intervals as recommended in the package of practises, the volume of water they applied did not match the standards i.e. symbolic adoption occurs including re invention.\r\nLimited financial assistance. From table 1, it could be concluded that 34.16 per cent of the farmers reported limited financial assistance as one of the factors squeezing the productivity of the palms. Coconut farmers are doomed as the cost of cultivation is being increased day by day and they received only limited financial assistance in the form of subsidies. Though coconut was claimed as a commercial crop that requires least investment hike in labour charges, the higher cost of inputs made cultivation tough. This necessitates a situation to support farmers financially for increasing production and thereby productivity.\r\nChange in the season cycle. The threat of climate change has long ill effects on coconut since it is a perennial crop. About 32.50 per cent of the farmers (Table 1) mapped out that change in the seasonal cycle has led to decreased productivity in their plantation. Weather extremes like an unannounced flood, prolonged drought, and saltwater intrusion have aggravated the situations that lead to decreased productivity of palms.\r\nComparably, Hebbar et al., (2013) mentioned that because coconut is a perennial crop, unlike other seasonal crops, the effects of climate change will have long-term detrimental ramifications.\r\nThe dominance of unproductive and senile palms\r\nThe prevalence of a high population of senile and old palms was perceived as major problem by 28.33 per cent (Table 1) of farming population in the coastal area. Farmers are not interested to do replanting due to the increasing cost of cultivation. Coconut farming is found to be no more source of income due to the low productivity of senile palms. \r\nThese results are similar to the findings of Thamban et al., (2016) reported that coconut production is kerala facing several challenges including predominance of senile and unproductive palms, predominance of small and marginal holdings etc\r\nThe factors responsible for variability in coconut production as perceived by the farmers were systematically analysed, ranked and presented in the Table 1.\r\nFrom Table 1, it is found that Severity of pests and disease (68.33 %) secured the first rank among the factors and could be concluded that pests and disease attack were the major factor crushing the productivity of palms. Paucity of laborers and high labour charges (59.16 %) ranked as second followed by frequent price fluctuations (56.66 %), unstable markets and poor marketing information (49.16 %), higher cost of crop protection chemicals and inputs(44.16 %), no premium price for graded produce and delay in price settlement (39.16 %), non - adoption of scientific method of cultivation (35.83 %), limited financial assistance (34.16 %), change in the season cycle (32.50 %) and more number of senile palms (28.33 %).\r\n','Akshaya M.V., J. Pushpa, K. Ramakrishnan and M. Radha (2022). An Exploration of Perceived Situational Factors Responsible for the Variability in Coconut Production in the Coastal Belt of Kerala. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 14(2): 1072-1075.'),(5008,'125','Functional and Nutritional Study of Himalayan Rice','Faruk Ansari, Devina Vaidya, Manisha Kaushal*, Neerja Rana, Anil Gupta, Sanjay Patidar, Priyanka Chauhan and Dileep K.C.','185 Functional and Nutritional Study of Himalayan Rice Faruk Ansari.pdf','',1,'Rice is one of the most well-known cereal foods, has been a primary food for many people around the world. Prescribed methods were used to evaluate the results at YSPHFU, Solan, Himachal Pradesh. The ash content of white paddy (Raw rice, flour and parboiled) was found between 0.54±0.015, 0.53±0.015 and 0.86±0.010 whereas in red paddy (Raw rice, flour and parboiled) 1.52±0.015, 1.53±0.015, and 2.03±0.021 respectively. Fat content in red rice was found higher as compared to white rice. The crude fibre content of white rice mainly in raw rice, flour and parboiled rice found 0.24±0.015, 0.23±0.015 and 0.29±0.015 respectively, whereas, 2.72±0.015 (raw rice), 2.72±0.015 (flour), 2.78±0.015 (parboiled rice) in red rice. Crude protein content in both white rice and red rice was recorded as 6.90±0.015, 6.89±0.026, 8.17±0.020 and 9.10±0.100, 9.54±0.020, 11.54±0.020 respectively in raw rice, flour and parboiled rice. Total carbohydrate content in white rice was recorded as 79.97±0.015 in raw rice, 80.90±0.015 in flour and 77.54±0.020 in parboiled rice whereas, 71.93±0.020 (raw rice), 72.98±0.010 (flour) and 69.03±0.020 (parboiled rice) in red rice. Energy values in raw rice, flour and parboiled rice were found to be less in white rice and more in red rice respectively. Amylose content of white rice was found to be 20.20±0.015 in raw rice, 21.17±0.020 in flour and 17.57±0.015 in parboiled rice whereas, 2.72±0.015 (raw rice), 2.72±0.015 (flour), 2.78±0.015 (parboiled rice) found in red rice. Amylopectin content in both white rice and red rice was recorded as 59.88±0.015, 59.61±0.020 and 60.82±0.015 and 61.80±0.020, 63.06±0.020 and 59.60±0.020 respectively in raw rice, flour and parboiled rice. Total sugar of white rice was found to be 17.60±0.020 in raw rice, 25.84±0.020 in flour and 33.29±0.020 in parboiled rice whereas, 60.47±0.346 (raw rice), 178.32±0.015 (flour) and 169.45±0.020 (parboiled rice) found in red rice. The water activity of white and red rice was found to be 0.83±0.002, 0.72±0.003, 0.62±0.001 and 8.26±0.002, 0.68±0.117 and 0.70±0.100 respectively in raw rice, flour and parboiled rice.','Raw rice, flour, parboiled, white and red rice','From the findings it was concluded that the white paddy found superior to red paddy, values of crude protein percent was found less in white paddy compared to red paddy in terms of total carbohydrates value of red paddy were found greater than white paddy further more amylopectin % was found at par in both the paddy. In the present study and its suitability are of great significance for the research and development personals and for food processing sector for preparation of various specialty foods.','INTRODUCTION \r\nFor centuries, rice (Oryza sativa L.), one of the most well-known cereal foods, has been a primary food for many people around the world and is known to feed half of the population (Sun et al., 2010). Therefore the role of rice as a staple food in providing nutrition to populations has been acknowledged.\r\nThere are more than 8000 varieties of rice, which have different types of quality and nutritional content. After the post-harvest process, all the varieties of rice can be categorized as either white or brown rice (Zareiforoush et al. 2016).\r\nThe world’s rice production is reported to be 755.47 million tonnes from an area of 162.06 Mha (FAO, 2019). India ranks as the second largest producer of rice in the world next to China followed by Indonesia and Bangladesh. Red rice is especially grown abundantly in the region to endowed traditional red rice cultivars rich in nutritional values, cultural values, fine aroma and medicinal properties. \r\nIn rice, protein has gained great attentions due as to its relatively well-balance amino acid profile, which is superior in lysine content as compared to wheat, corn, millet and sorghum (Hegsted, 1969) which has a great potential to improve human nutrition in rural population of Asia. \r\nPigmented rice is a well-known source of antioxidant compounds including flavonoid, anthocyanin, phytic acid, proanthocyanidin, tocopherols, tocotrienols, γ-oryzanol, and phenolic compounds (Butsat and Siriamornpun, 2010; Goufo and Trindade, 2014). Apart from cytotoxic effects against hepatocellular cell lines (HEPG2) (Revilla et al., 2013). It is also mentioned in Ayurveda that red rice is best for health, skin, eyesight, diuretic and improves voice and fertility. \r\nParboiled red rice also releases glucose more slowly than raw red rice, parboiled white rice and raw milled white rice this might be due to the protein-anthocyanin complex migrate into starch gel by unknown mechanism that results in inhibition of enzymatic starch hydrolysis (Parera and Jansz 2000). \r\nMATERIALS AND METHODS\r\nRaw material. Raw material such as red rice and white were procured from KVK Almora, Uttarakhand and then brought to the Department of Food Science and Technology, UHF, Nauni, Solan (Himachal Pradesh) for conducting the studies.\r\nDetermination of chemical characteristics of Himalayan rice: \r\nMoisture content (%). The moisture content of the sample was determined by using moisture meter. HE53 230V Model (Japan). Ash %, Crude Fibre (%), Crude fat (%), Total carbohydrate (%) content as per cent dry weight basis was determined by Ranganna, (2009). \r\nEnergy value (Kcal/100 g). In a bomb calorimeter, the energy value was calculated. Microprocessor bomb calorimeter automatic system KC01 khera (India). \r\nAmylose and Amylopectin content (%). Amylose was determined by using the method of Williams et al., (1970).\r\nTotal sugars (%). The amount of total sugar in the sample was determined by Rasouli et al., (2014).\r\nWater activity (%). The water activity of the sample was estimated by a computer digital water activity meter as per (AOAC, 2009).\r\nStatistical analysis. Statistical studies were Analyzed of Variance (ANOVA) using statistical package WINDOWSTAT 8.0. The obtained data were interpreted 29 and compared at 5% level of significance (P ≤0.05)\r\nRESULTS AND DISCUSSIONS\r\nA. Nutritional characteristics of rice \r\nMoisture content (%). The moisture content of the paddy varieties namely white (Raw rice, flour and parboiled) was found 12.11±0.015, 11.02±0.015, and12.04±0.010 and red paddy varieties (Raw rice, flour and parboiled) 11.92±0.015, 10.45±0.010 and 12.49±0.010 respectively. The moisture content of all samples was recorded almost the same at the time of the study. The moisture content found can help to suggest the stability in the storage of paddy. Similar findings have been reported by Vargas et al. (2017) and Raghuvanshi et al. (2017). \r\nAsh content (%). The ash content of white paddy (Raw rice, flour and parboiled) was found between 0.54±0.015, 0.53±0.015 and 0.86±0.010 whereas in red paddy (Raw rice, flour and parboiled) 1.52±0.015, 1.53±0.015, and 2.03±0.021 respectively. The ash content was higher in red paddy and lower value found in white paddy variety. Similar findings have been reported by Pavia et al. (2015).\r\nFat content(%). The fat content of white rice and red rice mainly in raw rice, flour and parboiled ranged between 0.28±0.015, 0.27±0.010, 0.68±0.015 respectively in white rice and 2.82±0.015, 2.87±0.015, 1.90±0.015 respectively in red rice. Fat content in red rice was found higher as compared to white rice. Similar results have been observed by Sompong et al., (2011) and Paiva et al. (2015).\r\nCrude fibre(%). Red rice is a rich source of fibre as compared to Bajra, wheat as well as vegetables like spinach, amaranth, cucumber and carrot (Gopalan et al., 2007). The crude fibre content of white rice mainly in raw rice, flour and parboiled rice found 0.24±0.015, 0.23±0.015 and 0.29±0.015 respectively, whereas, 2.72±0.015 (raw rice), 2.72±0.015 (flour), 2.78±0.015 (parboiled rice) in red rice. Similar findings have been reported by Kumar & Prasad (2017).\r\nCrude protein (%). Crude protein content in both white rice and red rice was recorded as 6.90±0.015, 6.89±0.026, 8.17±0.020 and 9.10±0.100, 9.54±0.020, 11.54±0.020 respectively in raw rice, flour and parboiled rice. Similar results have been observed by Reddy et al. (2017).\r\nTotal carbohydrate (%). Total carbohydrate content in white rice was recorded as 79.97±0.015 in raw rice, 80.90±0.015 in flour and 77.54±0.020 in parboiled rice whereas, 71.93±0.020 (raw rice), 72.98±0.010 (flour) and 69.03±0.020 (parboiled rice) in red rice. Similar results have been observed by Raghuvanshi et al., (2017).\r\nEnergy value (Kcal/100g). Energy values in raw rice, flour and parboiled rice were found to be 348.88±1.548, 346.67±1.528 and 367.33±1.155 in white rice and 368.67±1.528, 368.00±2.000 and 370.67±1.528 in red rice respectively. Similar results have been observed by Raghuvanshi et al. (2017) and Kumar & Prasad (2017).\r\nAmylose. Amylose content of white rice was found to be 20.20±0.015 in raw rice, 21.17±0.020 in flour and17.57±0.015 in parboiled rice whereas, 2.72±0.015 (raw rice), 2.72±0.015 (flour), 2.78±0.015 (parboiled rice) found in red rice. Similar results have been reported by Kumar & Prasad (2017).\r\nAmylopectin. Amylopectin content in both white rice and red rice was recorded as 59.88±0.015, 59.61±0.020 and 60.82±0.015 and 61.80±0.020, 63.06±0.020 and 59.60±0.020 respectively in raw rice, flour and parboiled rice. Similar results have been reported by Kumar & Prasad (2017).\r\n Total Sugar (µg/100 µg). Total sugar of white rice was found to be 17.60±0.020 in raw rice, 25.84±0.020 in flour and 33.29±0.020 in parboiled rice whereas, 60.47±0.346 (raw rice), 178.32±0.015 (flour) and 169.45±0.020 (parboiled rice) found in red rice. A similar finding has been reported by Kumar & Prasad (2017).\r\nWater activity (%). The water activity of white and red rice was found to be 0.83±0.002, 0.72±0.003, 0.62±0.001 and 8.26±0.002, 0.68±0.117 and 0.70±0.100 respectively in raw rice, flour and parboiled rice. Similar results have been reported by Ozbekova and Kulmyrzaev (2019) Table 1.\r\n','Faruk Ansari, Devina Vaidya, Manisha Kaushal*, Neerja Rana, Anil Gupta, Sanjay Patidar, Priyanka Chauhan and Dileep K.C. (2022). Functional and Nutritional Study of Himalayan Rice. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 14(2): 1076-1079.'),(5009,'125','Biochar and Fertilizer – N Effect on Chlorophyll content, Uptake and Quality of Direct Seeded Rice','V. Sai Surya Gowthami*, B. Venkateswarlu, P.V.N. Prasad, Ch. Sujani Rao and S. Ratna Kumari','186 Biochar and Fertilizer – N Effect on Chlorophyll content, Uptake and Quality of Direct Seeded Rice V. Sai Surya Gowthami.pdf','',1,'The present investigation entitled “Biochar and Fertilizer – N Effect on Chlorophyll content, Uptake and Quality of Direct Seeded Rice” was carried out at the Agricultural College Farm, Bapatla, during kharif, 2020-21 and2021-22.The results of the soil analysis indicated that the experimental soil was sandy clay loam in texture, slightly alkaline in reaction, medium in organic carbon, low in available nitrogen, medium in available phosphorus, high in potassium and sufficient in Sulphur. The experiment was laid out in split plot design replicated thrice. The main plot comprised four different biochar levels viz, Control treatment (M1), Biochar @ 2.5 t ha-1 (M2), Biochar @ 5.0 t ha-1 (M3) and Biochar @ 7.5 t ha-1 (M4). Five nitrogen treatments were applied to rice viz., Control treatment (S1), 40 kg N ha-1 (S2), 80 kg N ha-1 (S3), 120 kg N ha-1 (S4) and 160 kg N ha-1 (S5) as sub plot treatments. At 90 DAS, biochar @ 7.5 t ha-1 recorded SPAD meter readings, which were significantly superior to application of biochar @ 2.5 t ha-1 and control treatment. The application of rice husk biochar @ 7.5 t ha-1 registered significantly the highest phosphorus and nitrogen uptake by grain and straw than biochar @ 2.5 t ha-1 and control treatments. Among nitrogen levels, the highest SPAD meter readings, nitrogen and phosphorus uptake (both grain and straw), milling and head rice recovery per cent were registered with the treatment receiving 160 kg N ha-1 as compared to rest of the treatments except 120 kg N ha-1. From this study, it can be concluded that biochar and nitrogen application improved the chlorophyll, uptake and quality of rice during both the years of study.','Infiltration, Interception, Magnesium, Boldness and Starch granules','From the results of the present experiment conducted at a single location for two seasons, the following broad conclusions can be drawn that the highest SPAD readings, nitrogen and phosphorus uptake and quality parameters resulted with biochar @ 7.5 t ha-1 treatment. While, significantly the lowest value were recorded with the treatment receiving without biochar. Among the nitrogen management, the application of 160 kg N ha-1 treatment registered the highest SPAD readings, nitrogen and phosphorus uptake and quality parameters of rice compared to others during both the years of study.','INTRODUCTION\r\nRice (Oryza sativa L.) is a major cereal and staple food for more than 70 per cent of the people living in the Asia. The cereal food production has reached a plateau for over a decade and in some cases exhibited reduction in yield due to decline of organic matter in soils owing to continuous mono cropping of cereals with no inclusion of legume in cropping system or reduced addition of organic matter to the soil. Soil fertility decline is associated with several simultaneous degradation processes functioning with each other to produce a descending curve both in productivity and environmental quality. Since, the collective effects of tillage and improper nutrient management predictably lead to a decline in soil organic matter, the retention of crucial plant nutrients diminished, breaking down soil physical structure and in turn decreased both the water infiltration and its storage capacity of the soil (Oldeman, 1994). Under these circumstances, the conversion of organic wastes to biochar using the pyrolysis (it is a thermo-chemical decomposition of biomass with a temperature about ≤700°C in the absence or limited supply of oxygen) is one of the viable options that can enhance natural rates of carbon sequestration in the soil and improve the soil quality.\r\nThe unique characteristic of the biochar is its effectiveness in retaining most soil nutrients and keeping them available to plants as compared to leaf litter, compost, manures etc. It contains stable carbon content, large specific surface area and negative surface charge and thus has been recommended as a potential soil amendment to improve soil physical, chemical and biological properties (Zhang et al., 2010). Application of such biochar to soil not only increases soil fertility, but also improves water and nutrient retention by enhancing water holding capacity of the soil and provide congenial environment to soil micro- and meso-fauna. \r\nIn Asia, N deficiency is one of the most common problems in rice. It is common in all rice-growing soils where modern varieties are grown without sufficient mineral N fertilizer. One major consequence of inadequate N is reduced leaf area, thereby, limiting light interception, photosynthesis and finally biomass growth, grain yield and water productivity (Sinclair, 1990). Insufficient and inappropriate fertilizer nitrogen management may account for one half to two thirds of the gap between actual and potential yields. Excessive application of nitrogen fertilizer aggravates soil degradation and environmental pollution (Guo, 2019 and Wei-jia et al., 2018). A large number of population in the world is dependent on agriculture and its products (Dar et al., 2019). Therefore, it is particularly necessary to explore the appropriate application of nitrogen fertilizer, which can not only reduce the loss of nitrogen fertilizer but also reduce the pollution of soil and the environment by nitrogen fertilizer.\r\nHence, the present investigation was carried out to assess biochar and fertilizer – N effect on chlorophyll content, uptake and quality of direct seeded rice during kharif, 2020 and 2021.\r\nMATERIAL AND METHODS\r\nThe field experiment was conducted during kharif season of 2020-21 and 2021-22 at the Agricultural College Farm, Bapatla. The soil of the experimental site was a sandy clay loam (sand 56.24 %, silt 12.90 % and clay 29.72 %) with a bulk density of 1.31g cc-3 having pH 7.15, EC 0.38 dsm-1, low in organic carbon (0.46%), low in available nitrogen (235 kg ha-1), medium in phosphorus (47.56 kg ha-1) and high potassium (446 kg ha-1). Rice variety “BPT-5204” Samba Mahsuri was taken as the test variety with 140-150 days growth duration. Samba Mahsuri is popular among farmers of Andhra Pradesh and is widely grown because of its good quality and marketability. The experiment was laid out in split-plot design with the doses of rice husk biochar, allotted to the main plots and nitrogen levels, allotted to sub plots. Rice husk biochar had a pH of 8.17 (Alkaline), bulk density of 0.33 Mg m-3, phosphorus of 0.26%, potassium of 0.84% and CEC of 38.63 cmol (p+) kg-1.\r\nThe main plot comprised four different biochar levels viz, Control treatment (M1), Biochar @ 2.5 t ha-1 (M2), Biochar @ 5.0 t ha-1 (M3) and Biochar @ 7.5 t ha-1 (M4). Five nitrogen treatments were applied to rice viz., Control treatment (S1), 40 kg N ha-1 (S2), 80 kg N ha-1(S3), 120 kg N ha-1 (S4) and 160 kg N ha-1 (S5) as sub plot treatments. \r\nA. Chlorophyll content (SPAD chlorophyll meter)\r\nSPAD-502 chlorophyll meter by Konika Minolta Sensing Americas, Inc. Ramsey, NJ with single photon avalanche diode was used for measurement of chlorophyll content at 30, 60 and 90 DAS in rice crop during the two years of study. In each plant, five readings were recorded from single leaf and were averaged across each plot and expressed as SPAD values per plant to know the leaf colour and chlorophyll intensity.\r\nNitrogen uptake. The plant samples collected for dry matter accumulation from different treatments were oven dried, powdered by grinder and analyzed for the total nitrogen. Nitrogen concentration was determined by modified micro-kjeldhal method as described by Piper (1966) and expressed in percentage. Uptake at 30, 60, 90 DAS and at harvest (grain and straw) of rice and at harvest (grain and straw) of blackgram was calculated by multiplying the dry weight with nitrogen content.\r\nB. Quality parameters \r\nA. Milling percent. The hulled brown rice was subjected to milling for 90 seconds i.e., 5 per cent milling (Chauhan et al., 1994) in grain testing mill and calculated the milling percentage.\r\nB. Head rice recovery. Head rice obtained after milling was weighed and the head rice recovery was calculated by using the formula as suggested by Bandyopadhyay and Roy (1992). \r\nRESULTS AND DISCUSSION\r\nSPAD Meter readings. At 90 DAS, biochar @ 7.5 t ha-1 recorded SPAD meter readings (35.6 and 38.3 during 2020-21 and 2021-22, respectively) which were significantly superior to application of biochar @ 2.5 t ha-1 and control treatment (Table 1). However, it was found on a par with the application of biochar @ 5.0 t ha-1 treatment. The least SPAD meter readings were observed in control treatment (28.5 and 31.1 during 2020-21 and 2021-22, respectively.\r\nApplication of biochar @ 7.5 t ha-1 recorded significantly the highest SPAD meter readings over control treatment. The biochar application to the soil improves magnesium concentration and uptake of the crops which is an important element and integral part of the chlorophyll molecule. Higher chlorophyll content in biochar treated plots indicated higher N availability, N being a structural component of the chlorophyll improved chlorophyll concentration that increased the SPAD readings. Similar results were also reported by Lehmann et al. (2003) and Effendy et al. (2020).\r\nAt 90 DAS, significantly the highest SPAD meter readings were observed with the application of 160 kg N ha-1 (S5) (36.4 and 39.3 during 2020-21 and 2021-22, respectively), which was on par with the 120 kg N ha-1 (S4) treatment (34.4 and 37.8 during 2020-21 and 2021-22, respectively) and it was statistically superior over other levels of 80, 40 kg N ha-1 and control treatment. Significantly the lowest SPAD meter readings were registered with the control treatment (26.9 and 29.1 during 2020-21 and 2021-22, respectively). Whereas, S4 (120 kg N ha-1) and S3 (80 kg N ha-1) treatments were statistically comparable with one another as well as significantly superior over control treatment. It was also found that 120 kg N ha-1 was statistically higher than 40 kg N ha-1 treatment.\r\nTaller plants, higher dry matter, more number of tiller, higher leaf area index and crop growth rate are inturn resulted in higher SPAD meter readings registered at higher dose of biochar and at higher nitrogen level. This might be due to inorganic fertilizer nitrogen applied to the soil enhanced the N availability in the soil solution. This enhanced availability increased uptake of nitrogen. Increased nitrogen concentration in the plant which in turn improved the chlorophyll content in the leaf. The supply of higher proportion of nitrogen at early growth stages might have resulted in increased size and number of green leaves associated with higher SPAD values indicating the direct relationship between nitrogen and chlorophyll content. These results are in conformity with the findings of Jinwen et al. (2009); Khairunniza-Bejo et al. (2016); Paul et al. (2021).\r\nNitrogen Uptake. At harvest, significantly the highest nitrogen uptake by grain and straw was registered in M4 treatment (80.5 and 54.1, and 89.5 and 64.5 kg ha-1 during 2020-21 and 2021-22, respectively) and significantly the lowest nitrogen uptake was recorded in M1 treatment (44.8 and 31.8, and 51.5 and 38.9 kg ha-1 during 2020-21, and 2021-22, respectively). All biochar treatments differed significantly from one another during both the years of study and in pooled data.\r\nNitrogen uptake is calculated by multiplying the content with dry matter yields. Hence, higher nitrogen content also cited with higher dry matter yields might have contributed to higher nitrogen uptake. Younis et al.(2014) attributed the increase in the nitrogen uptake by the roots to the improvement in the soil micro biota that increases the biological nitrogen fixation as well as organic forms of nitrogen in soil like amines, amino acids, and amino sugars in comparatively smaller amount which become bioavailable to the plants. Due to the increased availability of nitrogen content in soil, its content and uptake by the plant also get enhanced the nitrogen uptake. The current findings are similar with the findings of Nguyen et al. (2012) and Liu et al. (2017).\r\nWith respect to nitrogen levels at harvest, significantly the highest nitrogen uptake by grain and straw was registered in S5 treatment (84.7 and 57.8, and 94.0 and 68.9 kg ha-1 during 2020-21 and 2021-22, respectively) and significantly the lowest nitrogen uptake was recorded in S1 treatment (41.9 and 29.0, and 49.7 and 35.7 kg ha-1 during 2020-21 and 2021-22, respectively). All nitrogen treatments differed significantly from one another during both the years of study and in pooled data.\r\nApplication of nitrogen might have increased the root cation exchange capacity and root surface area which enhance the nitrogen absorption and increases leaf area, photosynthetic rate resulting in higher biomass accumulation (Chaudhary et al. 2014). Higher supply and availability of nitrogen at higher nitrogen level and also due to higher grain yield coupled with higher nitrogen concentration in grain might have increased nitrogen uptakes. The present results are in consonance with the research findings of Prasad Rao et al. (2011); Jat et al. (2020).\r\nPhosphorus uptake. Data on phosphorus uptake at harvest in grain and straw are presented in Table 3. Data reveals the significant effect of biochar and levels of nitrogen. Interaction studies reveals that there was a non- significant effect between of biochar and levels of nitrogen during both the years of study. \r\nAt harvest, application of biochar @ 7.5 t ha-1 registered significantly the highest phosphorus uptake by grain and straw (24.2 and 12.9 and 25.8 and during 2020-21 and 2021-22, respectively) which was superior to the application of biochar @ 2.5 t ha-1 and control treatments. However, it was on par with the application of biochar @ 5.0 t ha-1. The lowest phosphorus uptake by grain and straw was registered in control treatment (16.7 and 9.4, and 17.9 and 10.8kg ha-1 during both the years of study).\r\nThe phosphorus is being available to the plants because of increasing solubility due to change in pH of the soil and high microbial population by addition of biochar which increases the uptake of phosphorus by the plant (Inal et al., 2015). Even though the phosphorus content was not significantly influenced, significant increase in grain and sover yields might have resulted in higher phosphorus uptake. The same results were found in the study done by Uzoma et al. (2011); Mahmoud and Abbasian (2021) in biochar amended plants nutrient uptake was enhanced by increasing the application rate of biochar in the soil.\r\nWith regard to nitrogen levels, at harvest application of 160 kg N ha-1 registered significantly the highest phosphorus uptake by grain and straw (25.0 and 13.6, and 26.8 and 15.3kg ha-1 during 2020-21 and 2021-22, respectively) which was significantly superior to 80, 40 kg N ha-1 and control treatments. However, it was on a par with application of 120 kg N ha-1. Lower values of phosphorus uptake was observed in control treatment (16.1 and 8.5 and 17.5 and 9.9 kg ha-1 during 2020-21 and 2021-22, respectively) during two successive years of study and in pooled data.\r\n Increment in levels of nitrogen significantly differed dry matter accumulation and these differences in dry matter accumulation among different levels of nitrogen were multiplied with corresponding phosphorus contents and the differences were carried forwarded in uptake studies too. The current results are in compliance with Patro et al. (2005); Pyngrope et al. (2019).\r\nMilling per cent. Data pertaining to milling per cent of rice as influenced by rice husk biochar and nitrogen levels are presented in table 4. A perusal of the data indicates that milling per cent was not significantly influenced by rice husk biochar only and interaction effect of biochar and nitrogen levels was also found non-significant.\r\nMilling per cent was significantly influenced by nitrogen levels only during both the years of study. The highest milling per cent (70.4 and 70.9% during 2020-21 and 2021-22, respectively) was recorded with the highest level of nitrogen (160 kg N ha-1), which was comparable with that of 120, 80 and 40 kg N ha-1 but it was significantly superior to that of control treatment. Whereas, the pairs of treatments S4 and S3, S3 and S2, S2 and S1 were statistically on a par with each other during the both years of study and in pooled data. It was also noticed that 120 and 80 kg N ha-1 treatments were significantly higher than control treatment. The lowest milling per cent was recorded in control treatment. Increase in milling per cent might be attributed to increase in boldness of rice grain as reflected in test weight. Similar results were also reported by Yadav et al. (2010); Zhu et al. (2017).\r\nHead rice recovery per cent. A perusal of the data on head rice recovery per cent of rice as influenced by rice husk biochar and nitrogen levels presented in table 4. The data indicates that the head rice recovery per cent was not significantly influenced by rice husk biochar and interaction effect of biochar and nitrogen levels was also found non-significant.\r\nThe highest head rice recovery was recorded with 160 kg N ha-1 (59.2 and 59.9% during 2020-21 and 2021-22, respectively) which was statistically on a par with that of 120, 80 and 40 kg N ha-1 but significantly superior to control treatment. The lowest head rice recovery recorded in control treatment (53.0, and 54.5% during 2020-21 and 2021-22, respectively). Higher head rice recovery per cent with higher level of nitrogen might be due to an increase in the protein content of brown rice and decrease in chaffy grains. The treatment receiving 160 kg N ha-1 was statistically varied with control treatment. The protein bodies function as binders occupying the space between unpacked starch granules, which results in increase in resistance of rice grain to breakage during milling thus resulting in increased hulling, milling and head rice recovery percentages. Similar results are also reported by Yadav et al. (2010); Singh et al. (2015); Zhu et al. (2017).\r\n','V. Sai Surya Gowthami, B. Venkateswarlu, P.V.N. Prasad, Ch. Sujani Rao and S. Ratna Kumari (2022). Biochar and Fertilizer – N Effect on Chlorophyll content, Uptake and Quality of Direct Seeded Rice. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 14(2): 1080-1085.'),(5010,'125','Recommendation of Nitrogen and Sulfur for Optimum Yield in the Intermediate Stage of Cultivation using a Mathematical Model','Jyotiranjan Behera* and M.K. Mahanti','187 Recommendation of Nitrogen and Sulfur for Optimum Yield in the Intermediate Stage of Cultivation using a Mathematical Model Jyotiranjan Behera.pdf','',1,'With the increase in population around the world, there is a shortage of land for agriculture. Increasing production on less land has now become the focus of research. Even though sufficient fertilizer may have been applied at the beginning of cultivation it may so happen that yield is not optimum due to some natural and man-made reasons. To address to such aspects of inadequate availability of fertilizers that hinders optimal yield, a mathematical model has been proposed in this work by which a corrective fertilizer dose can be applied in the intermediate stage of cultivation. The proposed method first determines the amount of nitrogen N and sulphur S fertilizers necessary to optimize yield by a mathematical optimization technique, namely, Marquardt’s method. Measurements of plant nutrient uptakes of applied fertilizers in a scheduled intermediate stage of cultivation are used in both trial and commercial plantations to determine whether the commercial plantation enjoys adequate supply of fertilizers to produce optimal yield. If it is found in the intermediate stage of cultivation that the fertilizers available to the crop will not eventually result in optimal yield, a numerical technique for solution of simultaneous non-linear equations is proposed to be used to decide how much more fertilizer doses should be supplied to the crop to ensure optimal yield.','Fertilizer response, onion plant, Fertilizer nitrogen, Fertilizer sulfur, Newton’s Method, Mathematical optimization, Marquardt’s Method','We have presented here a mathematical framework by means of which crop yield can be maximized by effective application of fertilizers. The model presented here involves detecting shortfall of fertilizers available to the plant in an intermediate stage of cultivation, and then recommending necessary remedial fertilizer doses to be used in the commercial plantation, if it is found that the fertilizers available to the commercial plantation is not adequate for optimum yield. Although we have considered onion cultivation as an example, the model presented by us can be easily extended to any commercial plantation. Here we have considered effect of Nitrogen and sulfur fertilizer on yield. The model can be extended easily to cases where fertilizers other than which have been mentioned here, are used. In the present model, we have proposed to test the nutrients uptake of the plant once during span of cultivation. We shall obtain a more accurate prediction about remedial fertilizers requirement if plant intake is measured at various time intervals. We have not taken the economical aspect of the fertilizer use. It may so happen that the objective of optimization of yield will conflict with the objective of economic use of fertilizer. In that case we shall have to solve a multi objective optimization problem instead of a single objective optimization problem that we have solved here. ','INTRODUCTION\r\nFertilizer is an essential source of nutrients for better growth of plants. Farmers can improve nutrient management of plants by applying fertilizers in the right amount and at the right time. But, due to several factors, plants may not have proper nutrients for maximum yield. It may be possible that a farmer knows how much fertilizer should be applied for maximum agronomic yield, but due to several reasons, fertilizer available to crop is not adequate. For instance, applied fertilizers in the soil can be washed away from farm fields into water ways during excess rain (Yu, et al., 2021). Nitrogen can be lost from farm fields in the form of gaseous nitrogen based compounds like ammonia and nitrogen oxides (Velthof & Rietra 2019). Sometimes, quality of fertilizers applied by the farmers is questionable. There are several instances where cultivation suffers due to low quality of fertilizers used (Bold et al., 2015). The amount of fertilizers purchased by the farmers and applied in the field depends on weights and measurements which may not be perfect (Bonilla et al., 2020). Thus, a farmer may have the idea that the desired amounts of fertilizers have been used in the field, but the crop doesn’t get enough fertilizers from soil in order to produce optimum yield. \r\nOne of the ways by which the abovementioned problems can be addressed is to measure the amount of fertilizer that are available to the crop in an intermediate stage of cultivation and, based on the measurement, to adopt corrective measures by supplying more fertilizers, if it is found that fertilizer available to the crop in the intermediate stage, will not lead to optimum yield. These solution processes can be achieved in the following two stages. The first stage involves experiment carried out on trial plantation. In the second stage, the outcome of trial plantation is used in commercial plantation. \r\nWe have demonstrated the applicability of the two stages by considered onion cultivation (Tilahun et al., 2021) where the fertilizers used are S(Sulfur) and N (Nitrogen). College of basic science and humanities, O.U.A.T, Bhubaneswar.\r\nSatage-1\r\nUsing trial plantation data, a yield response surface to fertilizer applications is formulated by multiple linear regressions (Gomez and Gomez 1984) with yield (Y) is the dependent variable and N and S are the independent variables.\r\n(i) Using the yield response surface, the amount of fertilizers S and N that are needed to be applied to maximize yield is calculated by applying a mathematical optimization technique for unconstrained nonlinear programming problem.\r\nFrom the trial plantation data, response surfaces of plant uptake of N and S, expressed as functions of fertilizers applied at the time of sowing, are determined using multiple linear regressions (Weisberg, 1947).\r\n(ii) The fertilizer response surfaces are used to determine the nutrient levels of N and S fertilizers that the plant should possess, in order that it can have maximum yield.\r\nStage-2\r\n(a) Plant uptake of N and S in commercial planting is determined in an intermediate stage of cultivation.\r\n(b) The uptake levels, so calculated, are compared with the uptake levels that the crop should possess for maximum yield, which was found out in the first stage.\r\n(c) If it is found that the uptake level of commercial plantation is less than the uptake levels required for optimizing yield, it is concluded that there are deficit in fertilizers and corrective measures are to be adopted by supplying additional doses of fertilizers in commercial plantation. The following steps are followed to determine the additional doses of fertilizers.\r\n(iii) The amount of fertilizers used in the past in the neighboring plantation is determined by solution of a system of two nonlinear equations by Newton’s method (Burden and Faires, 9th edn.).\r\n(iv) The differences between the amount of fertilizers used in the past and the amount of fertilizers that should have been used for maximum yield, which was calculated in the first stage, are the corrective fertilizer doses for optimum yield. \r\nThe proposed mathematical framework can be used in KVKs (Krisi Vikash Kendras) to advise farmers who produce a particular crop in the locality of KVKs. Commercial plants, which are cultivated in the locality of the KVKs, grow under same environmental and soil conditions. Therefore, results obtained by factorial fertilisation trials (Gomez and Gomez 1984) at KVKs can be used in neighbouring commercial plantations.\r\nIn the onion plantation, factorial trials with four rates of N and five rates of S and a total of 20 treatments (i.e. all combinations of four rates of nitrogen and five rates of sulphur), have been used for developing the response surface of yield and plant nutrient uptake in trial plantation.\r\nThe effect of different amount of applied N and S fertilizers on the crop yield, plant uptake of N and plant uptake of S, measured at a scheduled intermediate stage of cultivation, have been presented in functional form in the section “Statistical analysis and Experimental Outcome”. A step by step computational procedure of the proposed mathematical framework has been provided in “Computational Steps” section. Execution of our proposed mathematical model has been illustrated taking into account the statistical data further.\r\nA lot of experiments have been attempted to study the effect of N and S fertilizers on yield of onion in past. Optimization of onion using drying process parameter of sliced onions was by Kholikov et al., (2021) used a quadratic response surface involving temperature, drying factor and thickness as decision variables. In the work of Koech et al., (2017), the 3D response surface plots were employed to evaluate the effect of NPK fertilizers on yield of potato tuber by varying two variables within the experimental range under investigation and holding the other variable at its central level.\r\nNiedbała et al. (2022) developed a linear model based on multiple linear regression analysis and a nonlinear model based on artificial neural network to predict potato cultivation before harvest.\r\nIn most of the works in the past, the function representing the response surface is assumed to be quadratic. It is easier to optimize a quadratic function of several variables. However, it is not true that the response surfaces will be a quadratic function always, since such a surface may not fit the data well. Here we have allowed the functional expressions for response surfaces to be of higher degree in order to be statistically significant. If the response surfaces are not quadratic, the mathematical optimization techniques used to maximize function of several variables in most of studies earlier, are no longer applicable, and we need to apply more advanced techniques such as the one we have used in this paper. Soil test crop response (STCR) has used a targeted yield approach to develop relationship between crop yield on the one hand, and soil test estimates fertilizer inputs, on the other. In this targeted yield approach, it is assumed that there is a linear relationship between crop yield and nutrient uptake. In our proposed method Marquardt’s optimization is capable of handling implicit nonlinearity between crop yield and nutrient uptake.\r\nMETHODOLOGY\r\nDescription of trial. The current study is based on data generated in an investigation considering onion plantation under field condition during winter season, from January 2018 to May 2019 (Tilahun et al., 2021).\r\nThe investigation was conducted at the shewa Robit integrated project of Debre Berhan University (DBU), of North shewa zone, Ethopia. It is geographically situated at 37° 20′ East longitude and 11° 55′ north latitude at an altitude of 1380 meters above the sea level. The area has a short rainy season between March and April and a long rainy season between June and September (DBRC, 2018). Annual mean minimum and maximum temperatures were 14.0°C and 30.4°Crespectively. Mean rainfall was about 77.0mm during the cropping season.\r\n“Bombay Red” onion variety was used for the study. The land was ploughed with a depth of 25 cm, pulverized and levelled by oxen. Ridges and furrows were prepared using hand tools manually. The size of each plot was 3m × 2m. Seeding were transplanted 45 days after sowing in the trial field. The planting of onion seeding was done with a double row planting system at the spacing of 20cm between rows and 10 cm between plants. Each trial plot was 8.4m2 in size. The trial used a randomized complete block design of three replicates with 20 treatments.\r\nThe 20 treatments are a factorial combination of 4 rates of nitrogen (100, 150, 200, 250 kg/ha) and five rates of sulphur (0, 15, 30, 45, 60 kg/ha).\r\nFor plant sample analysis 0.50g dry bulb samples were taken and digested with a 2:1 mixture of nitric (HNO3) and per chloric acids (HClO4). The nitrogen content in matured bulbs was determined by Micro Kjeldahl’s Method (Tandon, 1993). The concentration of S in the extract was determined turbid metrically using a spectrophotometer (Tandon, 1993). Total uptake of N and S was determined by multiplying the concentration with its yield weights.\r\nSTATISTICA ANALYSIS AND EXPERIMENTAL OUTCOME\r\nIn this section we present the statistical analysis of the data generated from the field trial (Tilahun et al., 2021). For our mathematical framework, we need three response surfaces depicting the effect of different levels N and S fertilisers used in the experiment. They are \r\n(i) Response surface of yield of onion,\r\n(ii) Response surface of plant uptake of nitrogen,\r\n(iii) Response surface of plant uptake of sulphur.\r\nThe effect of different amount of N and S fertilizers that were applied at sowing stage, on yield of tubers is provided in table.\r\nThe response surface for yield, after application of multiple linear regressions using data in table, is given by,\r\ny(N,S)=a+bN+cNS+dS^2+eN^2 S (3.1)\r\nwhere, y(N,S) is the yield of onion, a,b,c,dande are regression coefficients having values\r\na=12.75331(P=.06), b=0.096327(P=.01),c=0.011032(P<.001),d=-0.0103(P=.002),e=-4e-05(P<.001).\r\nThe yield response surface has coefficient of determination (R^2=0.65) with significance F<.001.The effect of different level of N and S on plant uptake of N in the trial onion plantation is provided in table 1.\r\nThe response surface for uptake of nitrogen, after application of multiple linear regressions using data in table, is given by\r\nyN(N,S)=a+bNS+cN^2+dN^3 (3.2)\r\nwhere , yN(N,S) represents uptake of N by plant and a,b,candd are regression coefficients having valuesa=93.10258(P<.001),b=0.002329(P<.001), c=0.005468(P<.001),d=-1.5e-05(P<.001).\r\nThe nitrogen uptake response surface (3.2) has coefficient of determination (R2) of 0.91 and adjusted (R2) of 0.89.\r\nThe response surface for uptake of sulfur, after application of multiple linear regressions using data in table, is given by\r\nyS(N,S)=a+bN^2+cN^2 S+dN^3 (3.3)\r\nwhere, yS(N,S) represents uptake of S by plant and a,b,canddare regression coefficients having values\r\n:a = 8.465147(P<.001), b=0.000835(P<.001), c=1.47e-06(P = .002), d = -2.3e-06(P=.002).\r\nThe sulfur uptake response surface has coefficient of determination (R^2=.91) and (adjustedR^2=.90)\r\nCOMPUTATIONAL STEPS\r\nWe describe here the step by step procedure of the mathematical model adopted by us\r\nStep-1: Find the following three response surfaces by multiple linear regressions from data provided in trial plantation \r\n(i) At the beginning of cultivation:\r\nCrop yield y(N,S) (see(3.1)) .\r\n(i) At a scheduled intermediate stage of cultivation (after a time interval T from beginning of cultivation):\r\nPlant uptake of Nitrogen yN(N,S) ((3.2)) in trial plantation,\r\nPlant uptake of sulfur yS(N,S) ((3.3)) in trial plantation.\r\nStep-2: Solve the following unconstrained optimization problem\r\nMaximize y(N,S) . \r\nBy the marquardt’s method (Joshi & Moudgalya 2011). Letthe value of N and S which optimizes y(N,S) be denoted as Nopt and Sopt respectively.\r\nStep-3: Compute yN(Nopt,Sopt) and yS(Nopt ,Sopt) from equations (3.2) and (3.3). Let\r\n [N]opt = yN(Nopt,Sopt) and [S]opt = yS(Nopt,Sopt).\r\nStep-4: Let [N]app and [S]app be the Nitrogen uptake and sulfur uptake respectively in the commercial \r\nPlantation after time interval T from beginning of cultivation\r\nStep-5: (i) If [N]app ≥[N]opt and [S]app≥[S]opt, \r\nwe conclude that the fertilizers used in the commercial plantation are sufficient to produce optimum yield. Go to step-8\r\n(ii) If [N]app< [N]opt or [S]app<[S]opt, go to step 6\r\nStep-6: Solve the following system of nonlinear equations by the Newton’s method (Burden & Faires, 1993)\r\n yN(N,S) = [N]app,\r\n yS(N,S) = [S]app.\r\nLet the solution of the system of equations be Napp and Sapp, which are the amount of fertilizers applied at the commercial plantation at the time of sowing.\r\nStep-7: The additional amount of N and S fertilizer required to be applied to the commercial plantation \r\nare Nopt -Napp and Sopt -Sapp depending on whether Napp<[N]opt or Sapp<[S]opt. \r\nStep-8 :Stop.\r\nRESULT AND DISCUSSION\r\nNow we will discuss how we can compute the corrective doses of fertilizers that needed in a onion plantation cultivated in the neighborhood of the trial plantation with the help of response surfaces corresponding to yield, plant uptake of nitrogen and plant uptake of sulfur that we have obtained \r\nFirst, the yield function (3.1) is optimized by Marquardt’s method. We find that\r\n Nopt =172.7310(kg/ha) and Sopt=34.5693(kg/ha).\r\nUptake level of nitrogen and sulfur in the onion plant are obtained by putting the values Nopt and Sopt in the right hand side of the equations (3.2) and (3.3). Thus, we obtain that \r\n[N]opt=192.8487(kg/ha) and [S]opt=23.3196(kg/ha) .\r\nIt follows that onion plants having plant nutrient uptake [N]<192.8487(kg/ha) and [S]<23.3196(kg/ha) can’t be expected to produce maximum yield.\r\nAt this stage, it is possible to examine whether sufficient N and S are available to the commercial plantation to enable it to produce optimum yield. To this end, we need to compute the plant uptake of N and S in the commercial plantation in the laboratory. One of the two cases mentioned in Step-5 of computational steps is possible. \r\nIf the conditions mentioned in Step-5(i) occur, we conclude that we need not supply any more fertilizers and the applied fertilizers in the past are sufficient for maximum yield. \r\nLet us assume that [N]app= 184(kg/ha) and [S]app=22(kg/ha). As discussed earlier, it can be concluded that not enough fertilizer has been used in the past and the yield is not likely to be maximum possible. In what follows we describe the procedure for obtaining remedial fertilizer doses that will be prescribed to farms in order that yield can be optimized.\r\nStep-1\r\nWe put the values of [N]app= 184(kg/ha) and [S]app= 22(kg/ha) in left hand side of equation (3.2) and (3.3) to obtain a system of two nonlinear equations as follows\r\n93.10258+0.002329NS+0.005468N^2-1.5e-05N^3=184 (6.1)\r\nand\r\n 8.465147+0.000835N^2+1.74e-06N^2 S-2.3e-06N^3=22 (6.2) \r\nStep-2\r\n We Solve the system of equations (6.1) and (6.2) by Newton’s method. The solution obtained is \r\nNapp=163.89(kg/ha) and Sapp=26.35(kg/ha). \r\nStep-3\r\nWe conclude that the remedies fertilizers prescription for optimum yield in commercial plantation:\r\nNopt-Napp = 8.84(kg/ha),\r\nSopt-Sapp = 8.21(kg/ha).\r\n','Jyotiranjan Behera and M.K. Mahanti (2022). Recommendation of Nitrogen and Sulfur for Optimum Yield in the Intermediate Stage of Cultivation using a Mathematical Model. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 14(2): 1086-1090.'),(5011,'125','Changes in Soil Bio-physicochemical properties after Plant-ratoon Cropping System in Calcareous Soil','Rajendra Bairwa*, C.K. Jha, S.K. Thakur and Vipin Kumar','188 Changes in Soil Bio-physicochemical properties after Plant-ratoon Cropping System in Calcareous Soil Rajendra Bairwa.pdf','',1,'Sugarcane trash mulching treated with inorganic (Urea)/ organic sources (Vermicompost/ FYM) and microbial inoculants (Trichoderma viride / Azotobacter + PSB) improved soil health parameters significantly in terms of physical, chemical and biological properties of soil after harvest of sugarcane ratoon crop (two years). The organic carbon, soil respiration and soil microbial biomass carbon enhanced due to sugarcane trash mulching treated with urea or FYM/ vermicompost/ Trichoderma and Azotobacter + PSB treated plots as compared to control (No trash). Among various mulching treatments improvement was significantly more in plots treated with Trichoderma viride. The trash mulching treatments also reduced soil resistance, bulk density and improved water holding capacity of soil. The mean sugarcane plant height (185.43cm - 232.87cm) and ratoon crop\'s height (175.56cm - 220.65cm) varied significantly at 280 days old sugarcane crop. The highest dry matter production was recorded in Trichoderma inoculated trash mulching treatment (Plant 26.64 t ha-1 and Ratoon 24.94 t ha-1). Sugarcane trash mulching resulted in enhanced number of millable cane, cane yield and sugar yield of plant and ratoon crop over no trash treatment. The brix percent of cane juice for plant (18.80-20.07) and ratoon crop (17.91-19.31) varied significantly in the treatment of Trichoderma inoculated trash only. The quality of juice in terms of brix, pol and purity were comparatively better in trash treated plots over no trash treatment. Sugarcane trash mulching (10 t ha-1) either treated with urea (N 25 kg ha-1) / FYM (5 t ha-1)/ vermicompost (2.5 t ha-1), or inoculated with Trichoderma viride (500gm t-1 of trash)/ Azotobacter + PSB (5 kg ha-1) improved soil heath in terms of soil organic carbon, soil microbial biomass carbon, soil respiration, water holding capacity, bulk density and soil resistance with significant improvement in yield and juice quality of sugarcane plant - ratoon system in calcareous soil.','Trash mulching, soil properties, cane yield, sugar yield','Sugarcane trash mulching (10 t ha-1) either treated with urea (N 25 kg ha-1)/ FYM (5 t ha-1) /vermicompost (2.5 t ha-1), or inoculated with Trichoderma viride (500gm t-1 of trash)/ Azotobacter + PSB (5 kg ha-1) significantly improved soil heath in terms of soil organic carbon, soil microbial biomass carbon, soil respiration, water holding capacity, bulk density and soil resistance with significant improvement in yield and juice quality of sugarcane plant - ratoon system in calcareous soil.','INTRODUCTION \r\nSugarcane trashes are plant parts that remain in the field after crops are harvested. Sugarcane trash recycling has the advantage of converting surplus farm waste into a useful product for meeting the nutrient requirements of succeeding crops. Crop residues are the source of carbonaceous material and food for soil microorganisms while also contributing to plant nutrients (Bisen and Rahangdale 2017 and Dar and Sahu 2017). Sugarcane trash burning is common in north India, resulting in nutrient losses and may cause air pollution that will be endangers for human health. To mitigate straw burning, crop residue management innovations should aid in achieving sustainable productivity, allowing farmers to reduce nutrient and water inputs and reduce risk from climate change. Crop residues contain significant amounts of plant nutrients, and their judicious application will improve soil physical environment and nutrient recycling in cropping system. Crop residue retention on the soil surface reduces run-off and soil erosion while lowering soil evaporation and land preparation costs. Around 550 million tonnes (Mt) of crop residues are produced in India. Sugarcane trash consisting of tops and leaves generate 12 Mt, i.e., 2% of the crop residues in India. The crop residue generated, residue surplus and burnt annually indicates that about 140.84 Mt. of crop residue are surplus and about 92.81 Mt. of crop residues are being burnt across the India annually (Pandey, 2018). The application of sugarcane trash found beneficial for sustaining productivity of sugarcane in calcareous soil (Jha et al., 2019).\r\nSugarcane accounts for more than 60% of global sugar production. Because the demand for white sugar is constantly growing, cane productivity and sugar recovery must be increased in tandem. Sugarcane trash mulching treatments with either furrow irrigation increased the microbial properties. Trash mulch plots result in reduced bulk density, increased soil porosity and maximum water holding capacity, while un-mulched treatment was inferior for all the above parameters (Mathew and Varughese 2008). The application of trash has a significant impact on the organic status of the soil. When organic matter is added to the soil through biomass production, it undergoes microbial degradation and releases plant nutrients. Soil bulk density and penetration resistance were influenced by in situ trash mulching and bio-intensive modulation of the sugarcane ratoon rhizosphere, followed by harvest of the second ratoon crop (Tayade et al., 2018). The bio-intensive sugarcane ratoon rhizosphere modulation treatments were found to be very effective in lowering soil bulk density and compaction. In contrast, value of soil penetration resistance lies within the \"low resistance class\" (Canarache, 1990). Soil mulching with crop residue plays an important role in the sugarcane ecosystem. It acts as insurance for the productivity of the sugarcane plant-ratoon system. Hence, the current study was carried out to investigate the Improvement in soil health, productivity and Juice quality of sugarcane plant-ratoon system grown in Calcareous soil.\r\nMETHODS AND MATERIALS\r\nThe sugarcane plant–ratoon system was implemented in the field trial using a randomized block design at the Crop Research Centre, RPCAU, Pusa, Bihar as a part of Ph.D. programme. The farm is located at an elevation of 52.0 m above mean sea level and at 25.58° N, latitude 85.40° E long. Under the Ustic moisture regime, the climate in the area was subtropical. During the crop growth period of 2020-2021, the average annual rainfall was 1883.60 mm, and the average yearly temperature was 29.90 (Maximum) and 19.3 °C (Minimum). The sugarcane trash mulching treatments treated with urea (N25Kg ha-1) FYM (5 t ha-1), vermicompost (2.5 t ha-1) and inoculated Trichoderma (500 gm-1 t of trash)/ Azotobacter + PSB (5 kg ha-1). The sugarcane trash was applied 10 t ha-1. CoP 2061 a mid-late variety of Sugarcane was planted during March, 2020 with the beginning of ratooning in February, 2021. Sugarcane trash mulch was applied 10 t ha-1 along with urea, Trichoderma viride was applied 500 gm t-1 of trash along with FYN slurry (200 kg FYM ha -1) Azotobacter + PSB was applied 5 Kg ha-1 each along with FYM slurry in moist condition. The sugarcane trash was applied between row to row spacing of plant, and it was treated with urea, FYM, vermicompost, and Trichoderma/ Azotobacter + PSB as per technical details. All treatments received the recommended fertilizer dose of fertilizer for sugarcane plant (150 kg N, 85 kg P2O5, and 60 kg K2O ha-1) and ratoon crops (170 kg N, 60 kg P2O5, and 60 kg K2O ha-1). Recommended practices were adopted for the sugarcane plant ratoon crop. Surface soil sample (0-15cm) was collected from the experimental area at starting and also after harvest of the sugarcane ratoon crop. The soil samples were analysed for organic carbon by using the chromic acid digestion method (Walkley and Black 1934). Bulk density determined by core method (Blake, 1965). Penetration resistance was measured with the help of a cone penetrometer for surface and sub-surface soils. The water holding capacity was measured by the keen box Rockzowski method. The soil microbial biomass carbon (SMBC) was determined by fumigation with ethanol-free chloroform method (Jenkinson and Ladd 1981). Soil respiration at the harvest stage was determined by trapping the evolved CO2-C in NaOH followed by addition of few drops of saturated BaCl2 solution and using phenolphthalein indicator and titrated with 1N HCl (Page et al., 1982). The data were analyzed statistically.\r\nRESULT AND DISCUSSION \r\nGrowth and yield attributes. Plant height, dry matter (DM) production and number of millable cane (NMC) were significantly higher in sugarcane trash mulched treatments than the treatment without trash (control). The sugarcane plant height (185.43 - 232.87 cm) and ratoon crop height (175.56 - 220.65 cm) varied significantly due to trash treatments at 280 days crop growth stage (Table 1). Dry matter production was maximum in Trichoderma inoculated trash mulched treatments for sugarcane plant (26.64 t ha-1) and ratoon crop (24.94 t ha-1), which was 20.37 % (sugarcane plant crop) and 20.44 % (ratoon crop) more over the control. Number of millable cane (NMC) was significantly higher in Trichoderma inoculated trash mulched treatments than in control. However, NMC was found lower in ratoon crop as compared to sugarcane plant crop. The trash mulching activated with urea/ FYM /VC/ Trichoderma/ Azotobacter + PSB, and direct trash incorporation improved soil environment and supplement the plant nutrition after decomposition. Trichoderma also release plant growth promoting substances which stimulates the root system and enhance plant growth. These results were in agreement with Shukla et al. (2008); Yedidia et al., (2001); and Harman, (2000), who reported that Trichoderma inoculated trash influences the sugarcane plant growth and yield attributing characters. \r\nCane and sugar yield. The results indicated that trash mulching activated with urea (N 25 kg N ha-1), or organics viz. FYM (5 t ha-1), VC (2.5 t ha-1)/microbial inoculated (Trichoderma / Azotobacter + PSB) was found superior over the trash incorporated plots. Trash mulching was found beneficial over trash incorporation (Table 1). Sugarcane trash mulching / incorporation treatments enhanced the yield of cane and sugar as compared to no trash. Cane yield was recorded significantly highest in Trichoderma inoculated trash mulch treatment for plant (85.31 t ha-1) and ratoon crop (71.99 t ha-1) followed by trash activated with FYM/VC/ Azotobacter + PSB and lowest in control (65.96 t ha-1 plant crop and 54.20 t ha-1 for ratoon crop).\r\nSugar yield was also significantly higher in Trichoderma inoculated trash compared to the control. In general cane yield and sugar yield were higher for sugarcane plant crop than ratoon crop. Results obtained were similar to Jat et al. (2019), who reported that yield was increased in crop residue retention treatments than the residue removal treatment which might be due to trash mulching, leading to enhanced soil plant nutrition. Padian et al. (2020) and Das et al. (2014) also reported that crop residue releases the plant nutrition by decomposition increasing the cane yield. \r\nJuice quality and juice recovery. The brix percent of cane juice for plant (18.80-20.07) and ratoon crop (17.91-19.31) varied significantly in the treatment of Trichoderma inoculated trash. The quality of juice in terms of brix, pol and purity were comparatively better in trash treated plots over control. The quality of cane juice was also superior for plant crop as compared ratoon crop (Table 2). Juice recovery was resulted significantly higher in all trash mulching plots activated with FYM/VC/Trichoderma / Azotobacter + PSB plots than control plot. Juice recovery ranged from 47.45 - 63.69 % (Plant crop) and 45.33 - 60.44 % for (Ratoon crop). Over all the juice recovery was more in plant crop as compared to ratoon and being the highest in Trichoderma inoculated trash plot. The trash mulching with urea, FYM /VC/ Trichoderma/Azotobacter + PSB, accelerate the decomposition of trash and supplement the plant nutrition. Moreover, improvement in soil physical environment due to trash mulching resulted in better root system and promotes proper nutrition of sugarcane crop. Moreover, Trichoderma also release plant growth promoting substances which stimulates the root system and enhance plant growth. Yadav et al. (2009) and Shukla et al. (2008) recorded similar findings.\r\nSoil health. Soil organic carbon (SOC) improved significantly either by sugarcane trash incorporation or sugarcane trash mulching treated with urea/ FYM/VC, Trichoderma and Azotobacter + PSB, over the control. Among various mulching treatments SOC was significantly higher (0.73%) in plots treated with Trichoderma viride (Table 3). The sugarcane trash mulch treated with Trichoderma viride capably and quickly degraded trash. The trash inoculated with Trichoderma viride degraded fast and quickly released nutrients (Shukla et al., 2008). Modak et al. (2020) and Tayade et al. (2018), also observed that the crop residue mulching reduced in soil bulk density and improved in soil penetration.\r\nBulk density and soil resistance were reduced by applying sugarcane trash mulch treated with organic materials/ urea and microbial inoculants as compared to control after ratoon crop harvest. The mean bulk density ranged from 1.56 - 1.41 Mg m-3, while penetration resistance of surface soil (0-15 cm) reduced as compared to the lower layer of soil (15-30 cm). On the other hand, it also increased the water holding capacity of soil in sugarcane trash mulch treatment as compared to treatment without trash. The data indicated that addition of activated sugarcane trash improved soil physical, chemical and biological environment. These results were similar to the findings of Yadav et al. (1994) and Yadav et al. (2009), who reported that trash mulching reduced soil compaction and bulk density of soil. Crop residue retention was reduced soil bulk density (Das et al., 2020). Soil respiration was significantly lower in control as compared to all other trash treatments. Soil respiration was maximum in Trichoderma inoculated trash (31.10 mg CO2-C kg-1 soil day-1) followed by trash with FYM, trash with VC, trash inoculated with Azotobacter and PSB, and trash incorporation into the soil over the control (20.00 mg CO2-C kg-1 soil day-1). Similar results were observed by Yadav et al. (2009), who reported that soil basal respiration in the treatment with Trichoderma inoculated trash was more compared to other treatments. Soil microbial biomass carbon (SMBC) was higher in sugarcane trash mulched treatments compared to control (without trash). SMBC at harvest of ratoon was lowest in no mulch treatment (110.73 mg kg-1) and highest in sugarcane trash inoculated with Trichoderma viride (265.16 mg kg-1). However, SMBC result was found statistically at par in trash applied with FYM/VC/ Trichoderma and Azotobacter + PSB. These results might be due trash mulching which favours the induced microbial activity of soil and improvement in overall soil health for better crop production. Results agreed with findings of Yadav et al. (2009), who found that SMBC was higher in Trichoderma inoculated trash mulching.','Rajendra Bairwa*, C.K. Jha, S.K. Thakur and Vipin Kumar (2022). Soil health, Cane Productivity and Juice quality Improvement through Sugarcane trash Management in Plant-ratoon system grown in Calcareous Soil. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 14(2): 1091-1094.'),(5012,'125','Present Status of Collar Rot in Major Chickpea growing State of India','Gyanendra Singh*, U.K. Khare, Anita Babbar, A.R. Wasnikar, Ashish Kumar and Pawan K. Amrate','189 Present Status of Collar Rot in Major Chickpea growing State of India Gyyanendra Singh.pdf','',1,'Chickpea is third largest grain legumes after dry beans and dry peas grown across the world. In India Madhya Pradesh is key state for its cultivation and production. Collar rot which cause early stage mortality of plant is becoming a serious disease of chickpea in Central India. Collar rot disease caused by Sclerotium rolfsii is a serious threat to chickpea that may cause 55 to 95 % mortality. \r\nAn intensive roving field survey was done and the distance from previous to next field was more than 10-15 kilometers was conducted to reveal the status of collar rot in different Chickpea growing areas of Madhya Pradesh during 2018 and 2019 cropping season Incidence of Collar rot was recorded in early stage of crop (30-50 days) with geotagging of the field. The location of the field was taken using GPS camera, and in each field four points were randomly selected using quadrate (1m2). Number of plants (infected and healthy) were counted thereafter the average percent mortality from all four points was worked out. Collar rot was prevalent in all surveyed agroclimatic zones viz., Central Narmada valley (8.08-17.20%), Kymore Plateau and Satpura hills (9.30-14.80% ), Northern Hill region ( 8.10-11.76%), Satpura plateau (9.30-11.88% ) and Vindhyan plateau (12.00-18.20%) of Madhya Pradesh. Highest disease incidence of 18.2 % and lowest 8.08% was recorded at Batiyagarh block of Damoh district and Gotegaon block of Narsinghpur district respectively.\r\nAverage minimum percent mortality was observed in the variety Rahila (Local) (12.47 %) and the minimum of (9.60 %) in RVS 201. Present survey provide a vital information of varieties affected as well as sensitive locations to collar rot of chickpea in Madhya Pradesh, which can be utilized for deriving appropriate measures to minimize further incidence of this disease.\r\nThis information could be a strong background for effective knowledge for further researchers. With this aim, this experiment also helps to find out whether the susceptibility and resistance for the varieties depends on the virulence of the isolates located in different locations. Even future pathotype analysis of the isolates can be possible with this basic study.\r\n','Survey, chickpea, collar rot, disease','Average minimum percent mortality was observed in the variety Rahila (Local) (12.47 %) and the minimum of (9.60 %) in RVS 201. Present survey provide a vital information of varieties affected as well as sensitive locations to collar rot of chickpea in Madhya Pradesh, which can be utilized for deriving appropriate measures to minimize further incidence of this disease.','INTRODUCTION\r\nChickpea (Cicer arietinum L.), is one of the most important leguminous crops grown all around the world (Knights et al., 2007). Initially, it was cultivated in South Eastern areas of the world but now it is distributed in semi-arid regions to (Agarwal et al., 2012). It is a major source of dietary protein for human consumption. It also plays an important role in the management of soil fertility because of having the ability of nitrogen fixation in its root nodules (Hossain et al., 2010). There is a growing demand of chickpea due to its nutritional value. It is the better source of carbohydrates and proteins several vitamins and minerals (Chibbar et al., 2010) and also free of cholesterol and provides several vitamins and minerals (Wood and Grusak 2007).\r\nThe area under cultivation, production and productivity of chickpea in India comprised 6.63 Mha, 9.38 MT and 974 kg/ha, respectively during 2016-17(Anonymous, 2018). In India the major producing states are Madhya Pradesh, Rajasthan, Maharashtra, Uttar Pradesh, Karnataka and Andhra Pradesh together contributing to 90% of the area and 91% of production in the country (Singh, 2010). Madhya Pradesh covers 3.59 M ha area with a production of 4.595 Mt and an average productivity of 1280 kg/ha which is the highest among different pulse crops (PC Annual Report, 2018). \r\nChickpea can be grown in both tropical and temperate regions. Chickpea is known to be affected by many biotic and abiotic constraints that contributed in reduction of average yield in different regions. Among the biotic constraints more than 50 diseases have been reported. Nearly 172 pathogens have been reported so far that infect chickpea (Cicer arietinum L.) in different parts of the world but only a few of them have the potential to devastate the crop (Nene et al., 1996). Collar rot disease caused by Sclerotium rolfsii is a serious threat to chickpea that may cause 55 to 95 % mortality (Shrivastava et al., 1984). It has been reported that collar rot is more severe and most frequently at high moistures and high temperatures conditions (Al Askar et al., 2013). Diseases mostly appear in the early growth stage of the crop particularly before pod formation. Affected younger seedlings turn yellow and may collapse, but older seedlings may dry without collapsing. If affected seedlings are uprooted from moist soil in the earlier stages of infection, rapeseed-like sclerotia can be seen. The yellowing of leaves and constriction at the collar region with white mycelial strands of Sclerotium rolfsii, attached around the collar region are major characteristic symptoms of disease (Nene et al., 2012).\r\nWe all know, crop in fields are always exposed to multiple biotic and abiotic stresses where plants exhibit certain physiological and molecular responses that interact and have impact on each other to exert the combined effect of these stresses (Choi et al., 2013; Padaria et al., 2015; Pandey et al., 2015). These stress interactions in plants may either have direct or indirect effect on pathogens through other community interactions (Sharma and Ghosh 2017) leading to either positive or negative effects on plant responses (Ramegowda et al., 2013). \r\nThe on-going changes in climatic conditions such as increase in CO2 emissions, unpredicted rainfall patterns, temperature rise, decrease/increase in relative humidity, and low soil moisture stress (Zhao and Running 2010) are likely to influence the plant diseases establishment, its distribution and epidemiology (Graham and Vance 2003).\r\nIt is being noticed that Collar rot incidence seems to be increased recent time. Looking to the facts, an intensive survey was carried out to know the present status of Collar rot of chickpea with respect to different agro climatic zones of Madhya Pradesh.\r\nMATERIALS AND METHODS\r\nA. Survey for disease incidence \r\nDuring Rabi 2018 and 2019, an intensive survey covering 15 districts under 5 agroclimatic zones was carried out to assess the occurrence of collar rot of chickpea (Table 1). The survey was conducted using the GPS location point. In each field 1 m2 area was randomly selected at the 4 different location in the field and average percent mortality was calculated. Percent disease incidence was calculated by using the following formula:\r\n \r\n \r\n \r\nIsolation and confirmation of Pathogencity of Isolates. During Rabi 2018 - 2019 collar rot infected chickpea plant samples were collected and washed in distilled water. The fungus was isolated by tissue segment method (Rangaswamy and Mahadevan 1998) under aseptic conditions. The infected tissues were cut into small pieces of 1-2 mm size and surface sterilized with 1% sodium hypochlorite solution for one minute and wash repeatedly thrice in sterile distilled water. These pieces were transferred to blotting paper to remove water adhered to sample and place in Petri plates containing sterilized PDA and incubated at 28 ± 2°C Based on typical cultural cultural characteristic and sclerotial formation pattern, the pathogen is identified as Sclerotium rolfsii. (Barnett and Hunter 1972).\r\nRESULT AND DISCUSSION\r\nThe results obtained from the present investigation are summarized below:\r\nSurvey for disease incidence. Survey during Rabi 2018 and 2019 revealed that incidence ranged from 11.11% to 10.13%. Plants were assessed for disease based on their visual symptoms on plant and white mycelial growth at collar region (Plate 2) along with Sclerotia (mustard like) were also observed. Collar rot was prevalent in all surveyed agroclimatic zones are presented in Table 3 to 8.\r\nIdentification of pathogen. The pathogen isolated from typical infected plants was produced white colony on PDA (Plate1). The growing pathogenic fungus was \r\nfast as it covered 90 mm petridish within 5 days of inoculation. The growing pattern of colony was submerged and fluffy. Sclerotial formation started after 8-10 days of inoculation. Initially it appeared as white dots and later with in 5-10 it matured. The colony of sclerotia was brown with irregular and round shape. Till 21 days of inoculation numerous sclerotia was formed in the culture plate. This kind of cultural and sclerotial characteristics was observed in Sclerotium rolfsii and several researchers have been reported such kind of standard characteristic of Sclerotium rolfsii (Sarma et al., 2002; Adandonon et al., 2005; Palaiah and Adiver 2006; Okereke and Wokocha, 2007; Akram et al., 2008; Rakholiya and Jadeja 2011; Sharma et al., 2013). \r\nSurvey in the Central Narmada valley agro climatic zone during 2018 revealed that collar rot incidence ranged from 8.08 to 17.20 percent (Table 2). Highest incidence of 17.20 percent was recorded in the Gadarwara block of Narsinghpur district in the varieties viz. JG 63, RVS 202, RVS 203, JG 36 and the lowest incidence of 8.08 percent was observed in the Gotegaon block of Narsinghpur district in the varieties JG 12, JG 315, JG 63, RVS 202. In Central Narmada valley agro climatic zone during 2018 average incidence of collar rot of chickpea was 10.54 percent. During survey of major Chickpea growing districts of Madhya Pradesh collar rot appeared at 15 - 45 days old crop and it ranged from 5 - 30 percent (Gupta and Mishra 2009). In the Kymore Plateau and Satpura Hills agro climatic zone during 2018 collar rot incidence ranged from 9.30 to 14.80 percent (Table 3). Highest incidence of 14.80 percent in the Rampur Naikin block of Sidhi district in the varieties viz., JG 11, JG 12, JG 130, JG 14, JG 315 and the lowest incidence of 9.30 percent was seen in the Kundam block of Jabalpur district in the varieties JG 315, JG 130. Average incidence of collar rot of chickpea recorded was 12.25 percent in Kymore Plateau and Satpura Hills agro climatic zone during 2018. During survey of major Chickpea growing districts of Madhya Pradesh collar rot appeared at 15 - 45 days old crop and it ranged from 5-30 percent (Gupta and Mishra 2009). The survey in Kymore Plateau and Satpura Hills agro climatic zone during 2019 collar rot revealed incidence ranged from 13.00 to 16.66 percent (Table 4). Highest incidence of 16.66 percent in the Raipura block of Panna district in the varieties viz. JG 11, JG 14 and the lowest incidence of 13.00 percent in the varieties JG 11, JG 130, JG 14 was observed in the Panna block of Panna district. In Kymore Plateau and Satpura Hills agro climatic zone during 2018 average incidence of collar rot of chickpea recorded was 14.41 percent.\r\nIn Vindhyan Plateau agro climatic zone climatic zone during 2019 survey revealed collar rot incidence ranged from 12.00 to 18.20 percent (Table 5). Highest incidence of 18.20 percent was observed in the Batiyagarh block of Damoh district in the varieties viz. JG 12, Khajwa (Local), JG 16, JG 36. Lowest incidence of 12.00 percent was observed in the Khurai block of Sagar district in the varieties JG 16, JG 322 JG 315, RVS 202. In Vindhyan Plateau agro climatic zone agro climatic zone during 2019 average incidence of collar rot of chickpea recorded was 16.41 percent. During survey of major Chickpea growing districts of Madhya Pradesh collar rot appeared at 15 - 45 days old crop and it ranged from 5 - 30 percent (Gupta and Mishra, 2009). In Northern Hill Region agro climatic climatic zone during 2019 survey, revealed collar rot incidence ranged from 11.76 to 8.10 percent (Table 6). Highest incidence of 11.76 percent was observed in the Dindori block of Dindori district in the varieties viz. JG 315, JG 322, Local. Lowest incidence of 8.10 percent was observed in the Nainpur block of Mandla district in the varieties JAKI 9218, Vijay, JG 130, JG 14. In Northern Hill Region agro climatic zone agro climatic zone during 2019 average incidence of collar rot of chickpea recorded was 10.65 percent. During survey of major Chickpea growing districts of Madhya Pradesh collar rot appeared at 15 - 45 days old crop and it ranged from 5 - 30 percent (Gupta and Mishra 2009). In Satpura Plateau agro climatic zone during 2019, survey revealed collar rot incidence ranged from 11.88 to 9.30 percent (Table 7). Highest incidence of 11.88 percent was observed in the Parasia block of Chhindwara district in the varieties viz. JG 11, JG 12, JG 63 and JG 36. Lowest incidence of 9.30 percent was observed in the Amarwara block of Chhindwara district in the varieties JG 11, JG 130, JG 12, JG 63 and JG 36. \r\n \r\nIn Satpura Plateau agro climatic zone average incidence of collar rot of chickpea recorded was 10.65 percent. During survey of major Chickpea growing districts of Madhya Pradesh collar rot appeared at 15 - 45 days old crop and it ranged from 5 - 30 percent (Gupta and Mishra 2009). \r\nVariety wise incidence of collar rot of chickpea observed in different districts. Survey results were also categorized among variety incidence of Collar rot in Madhya Pradesh (Table 8). The chickpea varieties found during the survey of the 15 districts in the 5 agroclimatic zones were JAKI 9218, JG 11, JG 12, JG 130, JG 14, JG 16, JG 24, JG 315, JG 322, JG 36, JG 63, JG 74, JG 14, Khajwa (Local), Rahila (Local), RVS 201, RVS 202, RVS 203, Surya 10, Vijay, Vishal. The highest percent mortality was observed in the variety was observed in Rahila (Local) 12.47 % and the minimum of 9.60 % in the variety RVS 201. During survey of major Chickpea growing districts of Madhya Pradesh collar rot appeared at 15 - 45 days old crop and it ranged from 5 - 30 percent (Gupta and Mishra 2009). \r\n','Gyanendra Singh, U.K. Khare, Anita Babbar, A. R. Wasnikar, Ashish Kumar and Pawan K. Amrate (2022). Present Status of Collar Rot in Major Chickpea growing State of India. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 14(2): 1095-1101.'),(5013,'125','Morphological Diversity and characterization of Mungbean (Vigna radiata L. Wilczek) Genotypes using Distinctiveness, Uniformity and Stability Descriptors','Dhruv P. Joshi*, L.D. Parmar, Ravinder Kumar and L.P. Patel','190 Morphological Diversity and characterization of Mungbean _Vigna radiata L. Wilczek_ Genotypes using Distinctiveness, Uniformity and Stability Descriptors Dhruv P. Joshi.pdf','',4,'The challenge in the study of crop diversity is to screen and characterize the germplasm for knowing the traits present in it. Therefore, the thirty mungbean [Vigna radiata (L.) Wilczek] genotypes collected from S.D.A.U. were morphologically characterized using PPV & FRA descriptors during kharif, 2019. Descriptors like, hypocotyl colouration, plant habit, time of flowering, stem colour, plant growth habit, leaf lobes, leaf vein colour, leaf colour, leaf size, flower colour, premature pod colour, pod position, plant height, pod curvature, pod colour, pod length, seed lustre, seed colour, seed size and seed shape showed sufficient variation among genotypes during different growth stages of the crop. UPGMA dendrogram was prepared by using similarity co-efficient. It revealed maximum similarity in LM-353 and LM-385 while, LM-584 showed most divergence with GP-229-B, No-223(1) and LM-1 genotypes. Thus, the contribution of this research will help the researchers to utilize the PPV & FRA descriptors for the purpose of registration, maintenance, protection and diversity study of the genotypes in mungbean.','Diversity, DUS descriptors, Morphological characteristics, Mungbean, Similarity co-efficient, UPGMA Dendrogram, Variations','Overall, present preliminary characterization of these genotypes helped to use them in future study as a reference genotype and to group them into various categories for specific trait. Also, diversity analysis showed presence of diversity in the genotypes and can be used for future breeding work. ','INTRODUCTION\r\nIndian vegetarian diet prefers pulses as the second choice next to cereal. Pulses are called as the vegetable for wealthy people and meat for the poor people due to its high protein content. But, per capita availability of pulses is only 42 g/person/day against the World Health Organization (WHO) recommendation of 80 g/person/day. The non-availability of high yielding varieties which can tolerate environmental fluctuations to greater extent is the major limiting factors for pulses production and productivity in our country. Among all the pulse in India, mungbean is the leading crop. Mungbean is a self-pollinated plant and having a cleistogamous flower. Greengram is a diploid which has 2n = 2x = 22 chromosomes. The center of origin for mungbean might be Hindustan and Central Asiatic region. It is also known as moong, mashbean, goldengram, greengram, greenbean and greensoy. Mungbean is extensively grown during kharif (under rainfed condition of semi-arid and arid regions of India) and during summer season (under irrigated condition). Southern and eastern regions of India cultivate mungbean in rabi season. Crop duration of moong 60 to 75 days (short duration). It has low input requirement, low moister requirement, wider adaptability. Root nodules of mungbean have Rhizobium which fix atmospheric nitrogen symbiotically. \r\nMungbean has high level of lysine but level of methionine and cystine (sulphur containing amino acids) are low (Jaiwal et al., 2001). Apart from major nutritional value, mungbean also contain vitamin A (83 mg/100 g), riboflavin (0.15 mg/100 g), thiamine (0.72 mg/100 g), nicotinic-acid (2.4 mg/100 g) (Anonymous, 2018). Genetic diversity is important for crop improvement as well as its conservation, evaluation and utilization (Anumalla et al., 2015; Wang et al., 2015). Also different light treatments, induce variability in Vigna radiata (Srivastava, 2020). An experiment was carried out to estimate the genetic parameters like variability, heritability and genetic advance, character association and path analysis for seven quantitative characters (Jyothsna et al., 2016).\r\nInformation regarding parental germplasm is necessary for selection and it is possible by screening and characterizing the germplasm. Variety characterisation is done traditionally by first sowing the seeds in the field and then doing the grow out test to examine plants from vegetative to maturity stage. Till date, DUS descriptions of various cultivars are unknown. In case of mungbean gene pool, exhaustive characterization is helpful for development of superior or promising varieties. The desired characteristics of the ideal mungbean variety are resistant to diseases and insect pests, resistance to pod shedding, synchronous maturity, larger seeds, higher seed quality and yield. \r\nAccording to PVP & FR Act (2001), Protection of Plant Varieties and Farmers’ Rights Authority (PPV & FRA) have suggested to use DUS (Distinctiveness, Uniformity and Stability) descriptors for characterization of the lines for their protection and registration. For mungbean, draft national test guidelines for DUS testing have appropriate characteristics to compare candidate variety to the common varieties and obtained information is require while doing application (Singh et al. 2006). Thus, in our experiment, thirty genotypes were characterized using PPV & FRA descriptors to know the extent diversity present in these genotypes.\r\nMATERIALS AND METHODS\r\nExperimental site and material. Experiment was taken in kharif, 2019 at Agronomy Instructional Farm, S.D.A.U., Sardarkrushinagar. The investigation site represents typical sub-tropical climate include semi-arid and arid condition. Thirty genotypes of mungbean were selected from the enormous genetic resources available at the Pulses Research Station, S.D.A.U., Sardarkrushinagar.\r\nExperimental details. The complete sets of 30 genotypes were planted in Randomized Block Design (RBD) with four replications. Plant spacing was 45 cm × 10 cm. Each genotype was sown in a 3 m length (single row) plot.\r\nStudy of descriptors. All descriptors were selected and recorded as per guidelines to conduct DUS test by PPV and FRA (Anonymous, 2007). Total 23 descriptors were studied at various life stages of crop. Distinctiveness and uniformity of descriptors were recorded by four types of assessment methods. List of studied DUS descriptors, stages of observation and methods of assessment is given in Table 1.\r\nScoring as well as data analysis for diversity study. Data on 23 morphological characteristics were used to draw a single link dendrogram. NTSYSpc version 2.02i (Rohlf, 1997) was used for data analysis. Method of Sneath and Sokal (1973) were used to transform ordinal scale of data of morphological characteristics into binary characters depending on the variations available in each character. Scoring of ‘0’ and ‘1’ were given for absence as well as presence of phenotypes respectively. By using method of Jaccard (1908), the set of gathered data were used for cluster analysis which is depending on the values of similarity coefficient. To make dendrogram, SAHN (Sequential Agglomerative Hierarchical Nonoverlapping) clustering was done on similarity coefficient matrices gained from observations using the UPGMA (Unweighted Pair Group Method with Arithmetic Averages).\r\nRESULTS AND DISCUSSION\r\nVariation through DUS descriptors. Morphological characteristics give idea about the amount of genetic variability. Twenty-three DUS descriptors were recorded in 30 mungbean genotypes and variations were noticed in 20 descriptors (Table 2 and Plate I to Plate III). It shows the usefulness of these descriptors in differentiating the genotypes. \r\nAnthocyanin colouration of hypocotyl was absent in seven genotypes and present in the remaining genotypes. This is the useful trait for differentiation and Intellectual property protection of genotypes. Mounika et al. (2020), Katiyar et al. (2008); Mukherjee and Pradhan (2002) had found similar results.\r\nGenotype No-223(1), LM-1 and GM-4 were early flowering; genotype LM-584 and CM-512 were late flowering while rest of the genotypes were medium day flowering. Eight genotypes showed indeterminate plant habit and twenty-two genotypes showed determinate plant habit. Three types of growth habits were recorded at 50% flowering. Majority of the genotypes had erect growth habit.\r\nStem colour showed variation among the genotypes. The genotypes, PIMS-1, A-59-7, GP-229-B, SML-68, M.GP-124-B, LM-141, LM-578, No-223(1), LM-584, CM-512, LM-2, PS-10, LM-359 and GM-4 showed green stem colour while LM-389 exhibited purple stem colour. The other genotypes recorded green stem with purple splashes.\r\nThe descriptors, stem pubescence, leaf shape (terminal) and pod pubescence showed no variation among the genotypes. All the genotypes showed presence of stem and pod pubescence with ovate leaf shape indicating they are least useful in characterization for these genotypes. Similar result was obtained for stem pubescence and pod pubescence by Mounika et al. (2020).\r\nLeaflet lobes were present in the genotypes, LAM-GG-127, LM-554, LM-584 and LM-359, while absent in other genotypes. The genotypes GP-229-B, M.GP-124-B, LM-141, MBC-5, LM-554, LM-578, No-223(1), LM-1, PS-10, TT8E × 345 and LM-350 showed green leaf colour while remaining genotypes recorded dark green colour. Leaf vein colour showed three types. Genotype M.GP-124-B and GM-4 showed green leaf vein while other genotypes were divided into either greenish purple or purple leaf vein group. \r\nLeaf size of the genotype, M.GP-124-B was small while, large leaf size was noticed in the genotypes, Guj-1, A-59-7, A-61-1, SML-68, LM-141, LM-584, CM-512, LM-389, LM-7, LM-359, TT8E × 345, LM-385, LM-353, GM-4 and GAM-5. Rest of the genotypes showed medium leaf size.\r\nLight yellow flower was noticed in Guj-1 and LM-141, while flowers of other genotypes were yellow colour. Jain et al., (2002) showed the importance of flower characteristics in characterization of greengram genotypes.\r\nColour of premature pod was recorded when green pods were fully developed. Ten genotypes showed green colour pods while twenty genotypes showed green pods with pigmented suture.\r\nPod position was intermediate in LM-584 and CM-512, while rest of the genotypes showed above canopy pod position.\r\nPlant height is a useful attribute and cultivars like GP-229-B, M.GP-124-B, LM-578, No-223(1), LM-1, PS-10, LM-359 and LM-34 Showed medium plant height (50 cm-70 cm) and rest of the genotypes had >70 cm height.\r\nPod colour of LM-34 was brown. MBC-5, No-223(1) and CM-512 showed black pods and the remaining genotypes showed blackish brown pods.\r\nCurvature of mature pod was straight for the genotypes, SML-68, MBC-5, LM-584, LM-359 and LM-309 while other genotypes showed pods which were slightly curved at beak.\r\nThe genotypes, GM-4 and GAM-5 showed medium pod length (8-10 cm) while, other genotypes showed short pod length (<8 cm).\r\nFurther, yellow seed colour was noticed in MBC-5. Genotypes, A-61-1, GP-229-B and LM-389 showed mottled seed colour and rest of the genotypes showed green seeds.\r\nFour cultivars, viz. LM-584, LM-389, LM-34 and LM-309 exhibited dull type seed lusture and rest 26 genotypes showed shiny seeds.\r\nSeed shape is a useful trait. Four varieties (No-223(1), LM-584, LM-389 and LM-34) exhibited drum shaped seeds and others were oval shaped.\r\nWeight of 100 seeds were <3 g for PIMS-1, LAM-GG-127, M.GP-124-B, LM-141, LM-554, LM-578, LM-584, LM-359, LM-34, LM-385, LM-350 and LM-353 while, remaining genotypes showed 3 to 5 g seed weight.\r\nResult revealed sufficient amount of variability based on DUS descriptors. Results were supported by Kaur et al. (2017) for stem pubescence, leaf colour, flower colour, pod pubescence, pod colour and seed lustre; with the results of Mounika et al. (2020) for leaflet lobe, premature pod colour, leaf shape, pod position, pod pubescence, pod length, seed lustre, seed shape and seed size; with the results of Katiyar et al. (2008) for anthocyanin colour, terminal leaf shape, growth habit, stem colour, plant habit, stem pubescence, leaf colour, leaf size, leaf vein colour, plant height, time of flowering and flower colour. \r\nStudy of diversity by constructing single link dendrogram using DUS descriptors. Similarity co-efficient of Jaccard were estimated on the basis of 23 DUS descriptors ranged from 0.2703 (between LM-584 and GP-229-B, LM-584 and No-223(1), LM-584 and LM-1) to 1.000 (between LM-353 and LM-385). Similarity indices 1.000 indicated most similar genotypes while, LM-584 showed most divergence with GP-229-B, No-223(1) and LM-1 genotypes. \r\nWaniale et al. (2014) found 90 to 100 per cent similarity among the genotypes which shows conformity of result.\r\nThe distribution of all the genotypes based on the clusters from UPGMA dendrogram is shown in Fig. 1 and Table 3. Clusters A and B were two main clusters with 39 % similarity. Cluster A was partitioned into A2 and A1 sub-clusters (47 % similarity among them). Sub-cluster A1 was again partitioned into A1:1 (contains 26 genotypes) and A1:2 (contains 1 genotype) sub-clusters with 48 % similarity. Sub-cluster A2 was partitioned into sub-clusters. \r\nA2:1 (contains 1 genotype) and A2:2 (contains 1 genotype) with 52 % similarity. Cluster B had 1 genotype and did not contain any sub-cluster. The results were in accordance with Waniale et al. (2014) (studied 35 genotypes and found 5 clusters).\r\n','Dhruv P. Joshi, L.D. Parmar, Ravinder Kumar and L.P. Patel (2022). Morphological Diversity and characterization of Mungbean (Vigna radiata L. Wilczek) Genotypes using Distinctiveness, Uniformity and Stability Descriptors. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 14(2): 1102-1110.'),(5014,'125','Morphological Diversity and characterization of Mungbean (Vigna radiata L. Wilczek) Genotypes using Distinctiveness, Uniformity and Stability Descriptors','Dhruv P. Joshi*, L.D. Parmar, Ravinder Kumar and L.P. Patel','190 Morphological Diversity and characterization of Mungbean _Vigna radiata L. Wilczek_ Genotypes using Distinctiveness, Uniformity and Stability Descriptors Dhruv P. Joshi.pdf','',1,'The challenge in the study of crop diversity is to screen and characterize the germplasm for knowing the traits present in it. Therefore, the thirty mungbean [Vigna radiata (L.) Wilczek] genotypes collected from S.D.A.U. were morphologically characterized using PPV & FRA descriptors during kharif, 2019. Descriptors like, hypocotyl colouration, plant habit, time of flowering, stem colour, plant growth habit, leaf lobes, leaf vein colour, leaf colour, leaf size, flower colour, premature pod colour, pod position, plant height, pod curvature, pod colour, pod length, seed lustre, seed colour, seed size and seed shape showed sufficient variation among genotypes during different growth stages of the crop. UPGMA dendrogram was prepared by using similarity co-efficient. It revealed maximum similarity in LM-353 and LM-385 while, LM-584 showed most divergence with GP-229-B, No-223(1) and LM-1 genotypes. Thus, the contribution of this research will help the researchers to utilize the PPV & FRA descriptors for the purpose of registration, maintenance, protection and diversity study of the genotypes in mungbean.','Diversity, DUS descriptors, Morphological characteristics, Mungbean, Similarity co-efficient, UPGMA Dendrogram, Variations','Overall, present preliminary characterization of these genotypes helped to use them in future study as a reference genotype and to group them into various categories for specific trait. Also, diversity analysis showed presence of diversity in the genotypes and can be used for future breeding work. ','INTRODUCTION\r\nIndian vegetarian diet prefers pulses as the second choice next to cereal. Pulses are called as the vegetable for wealthy people and meat for the poor people due to its high protein content. But, per capita availability of pulses is only 42 g/person/day against the World Health Organization (WHO) recommendation of 80 g/person/day. The non-availability of high yielding varieties which can tolerate environmental fluctuations to greater extent is the major limiting factors for pulses production and productivity in our country. Among all the pulse in India, mungbean is the leading crop. Mungbean is a self-pollinated plant and having a cleistogamous flower. Greengram is a diploid which has 2n = 2x = 22 chromosomes. The center of origin for mungbean might be Hindustan and Central Asiatic region. It is also known as moong, mashbean, goldengram, greengram, greenbean and greensoy. Mungbean is extensively grown during kharif (under rainfed condition of semi-arid and arid regions of India) and during summer season (under irrigated condition). Southern and eastern regions of India cultivate mungbean in rabi season. Crop duration of moong 60 to 75 days (short duration). It has low input requirement, low moister requirement, wider adaptability. Root nodules of mungbean have Rhizobium which fix atmospheric nitrogen symbiotically. \r\nMungbean has high level of lysine but level of methionine and cystine (sulphur containing amino acids) are low (Jaiwal et al., 2001). Apart from major nutritional value, mungbean also contain vitamin A (83 mg/100 g), riboflavin (0.15 mg/100 g), thiamine (0.72 mg/100 g), nicotinic-acid (2.4 mg/100 g) (Anonymous, 2018). Genetic diversity is important for crop improvement as well as its conservation, evaluation and utilization (Anumalla et al., 2015; Wang et al., 2015). Also different light treatments, induce variability in Vigna radiata (Srivastava, 2020). An experiment was carried out to estimate the genetic parameters like variability, heritability and genetic advance, character association and path analysis for seven quantitative characters (Jyothsna et al., 2016).\r\nInformation regarding parental germplasm is necessary for selection and it is possible by screening and characterizing the germplasm. Variety characterisation is done traditionally by first sowing the seeds in the field and then doing the grow out test to examine plants from vegetative to maturity stage. Till date, DUS descriptions of various cultivars are unknown. In case of mungbean gene pool, exhaustive characterization is helpful for development of superior or promising varieties. The desired characteristics of the ideal mungbean variety are resistant to diseases and insect pests, resistance to pod shedding, synchronous maturity, larger seeds, higher seed quality and yield. \r\nAccording to PVP & FR Act (2001), Protection of Plant Varieties and Farmers’ Rights Authority (PPV & FRA) have suggested to use DUS (Distinctiveness, Uniformity and Stability) descriptors for characterization of the lines for their protection and registration. For mungbean, draft national test guidelines for DUS testing have appropriate characteristics to compare candidate variety to the common varieties and obtained information is require while doing application (Singh et al. 2006). Thus, in our experiment, thirty genotypes were characterized using PPV & FRA descriptors to know the extent diversity present in these genotypes.\r\nMATERIALS AND METHODS\r\nExperimental site and material. Experiment was taken in kharif, 2019 at Agronomy Instructional Farm, S.D.A.U., Sardarkrushinagar. The investigation site represents typical sub-tropical climate include semi-arid and arid condition. Thirty genotypes of mungbean were selected from the enormous genetic resources available at the Pulses Research Station, S.D.A.U., Sardarkrushinagar.\r\nExperimental details. The complete sets of 30 genotypes were planted in Randomized Block Design (RBD) with four replications. Plant spacing was 45 cm × 10 cm. Each genotype was sown in a 3 m length (single row) plot.\r\nStudy of descriptors. All descriptors were selected and recorded as per guidelines to conduct DUS test by PPV and FRA (Anonymous, 2007). Total 23 descriptors were studied at various life stages of crop. Distinctiveness and uniformity of descriptors were recorded by four types of assessment methods. List of studied DUS descriptors, stages of observation and methods of assessment is given in Table 1.\r\nScoring as well as data analysis for diversity study. Data on 23 morphological characteristics were used to draw a single link dendrogram. NTSYSpc version 2.02i (Rohlf, 1997) was used for data analysis. Method of Sneath and Sokal (1973) were used to transform ordinal scale of data of morphological characteristics into binary characters depending on the variations available in each character. Scoring of ‘0’ and ‘1’ were given for absence as well as presence of phenotypes respectively. By using method of Jaccard (1908), the set of gathered data were used for cluster analysis which is depending on the values of similarity coefficient. To make dendrogram, SAHN (Sequential Agglomerative Hierarchical Nonoverlapping) clustering was done on similarity coefficient matrices gained from observations using the UPGMA (Unweighted Pair Group Method with Arithmetic Averages).\r\nRESULTS AND DISCUSSION\r\nVariation through DUS descriptors. Morphological characteristics give idea about the amount of genetic variability. Twenty-three DUS descriptors were recorded in 30 mungbean genotypes and variations were noticed in 20 descriptors (Table 2 and Plate I to Plate III). It shows the usefulness of these descriptors in differentiating the genotypes. \r\nAnthocyanin colouration of hypocotyl was absent in seven genotypes and present in the remaining genotypes. This is the useful trait for differentiation and Intellectual property protection of genotypes. Mounika et al. (2020), Katiyar et al. (2008); Mukherjee and Pradhan (2002) had found similar results.\r\nGenotype No-223(1), LM-1 and GM-4 were early flowering; genotype LM-584 and CM-512 were late flowering while rest of the genotypes were medium day flowering. Eight genotypes showed indeterminate plant habit and twenty-two genotypes showed determinate plant habit. Three types of growth habits were recorded at 50% flowering. Majority of the genotypes had erect growth habit.\r\nStem colour showed variation among the genotypes. The genotypes, PIMS-1, A-59-7, GP-229-B, SML-68, M.GP-124-B, LM-141, LM-578, No-223(1), LM-584, CM-512, LM-2, PS-10, LM-359 and GM-4 showed green stem colour while LM-389 exhibited purple stem colour. The other genotypes recorded green stem with purple splashes.\r\nThe descriptors, stem pubescence, leaf shape (terminal) and pod pubescence showed no variation among the genotypes. All the genotypes showed presence of stem and pod pubescence with ovate leaf shape indicating they are least useful in characterization for these genotypes. Similar result was obtained for stem pubescence and pod pubescence by Mounika et al. (2020).\r\nLeaflet lobes were present in the genotypes, LAM-GG-127, LM-554, LM-584 and LM-359, while absent in other genotypes. The genotypes GP-229-B, M.GP-124-B, LM-141, MBC-5, LM-554, LM-578, No-223(1), LM-1, PS-10, TT8E × 345 and LM-350 showed green leaf colour while remaining genotypes recorded dark green colour. Leaf vein colour showed three types. Genotype M.GP-124-B and GM-4 showed green leaf vein while other genotypes were divided into either greenish purple or purple leaf vein group. \r\nLeaf size of the genotype, M.GP-124-B was small while, large leaf size was noticed in the genotypes, Guj-1, A-59-7, A-61-1, SML-68, LM-141, LM-584, CM-512, LM-389, LM-7, LM-359, TT8E × 345, LM-385, LM-353, GM-4 and GAM-5. Rest of the genotypes showed medium leaf size.\r\nLight yellow flower was noticed in Guj-1 and LM-141, while flowers of other genotypes were yellow colour. Jain et al., (2002) showed the importance of flower characteristics in characterization of greengram genotypes.\r\nColour of premature pod was recorded when green pods were fully developed. Ten genotypes showed green colour pods while twenty genotypes showed green pods with pigmented suture.\r\nPod position was intermediate in LM-584 and CM-512, while rest of the genotypes showed above canopy pod position.\r\nPlant height is a useful attribute and cultivars like GP-229-B, M.GP-124-B, LM-578, No-223(1), LM-1, PS-10, LM-359 and LM-34 Showed medium plant height (50 cm-70 cm) and rest of the genotypes had >70 cm height.\r\nPod colour of LM-34 was brown. MBC-5, No-223(1) and CM-512 showed black pods and the remaining genotypes showed blackish brown pods.\r\nCurvature of mature pod was straight for the genotypes, SML-68, MBC-5, LM-584, LM-359 and LM-309 while other genotypes showed pods which were slightly curved at beak.\r\nThe genotypes, GM-4 and GAM-5 showed medium pod length (8-10 cm) while, other genotypes showed short pod length (<8 cm).\r\nFurther, yellow seed colour was noticed in MBC-5. Genotypes, A-61-1, GP-229-B and LM-389 showed mottled seed colour and rest of the genotypes showed green seeds.\r\nFour cultivars, viz. LM-584, LM-389, LM-34 and LM-309 exhibited dull type seed lusture and rest 26 genotypes showed shiny seeds.\r\nSeed shape is a useful trait. Four varieties (No-223(1), LM-584, LM-389 and LM-34) exhibited drum shaped seeds and others were oval shaped.\r\nWeight of 100 seeds were <3 g for PIMS-1, LAM-GG-127, M.GP-124-B, LM-141, LM-554, LM-578, LM-584, LM-359, LM-34, LM-385, LM-350 and LM-353 while, remaining genotypes showed 3 to 5 g seed weight.\r\nResult revealed sufficient amount of variability based on DUS descriptors. Results were supported by Kaur et al. (2017) for stem pubescence, leaf colour, flower colour, pod pubescence, pod colour and seed lustre; with the results of Mounika et al. (2020) for leaflet lobe, premature pod colour, leaf shape, pod position, pod pubescence, pod length, seed lustre, seed shape and seed size; with the results of Katiyar et al. (2008) for anthocyanin colour, terminal leaf shape, growth habit, stem colour, plant habit, stem pubescence, leaf colour, leaf size, leaf vein colour, plant height, time of flowering and flower colour. \r\nStudy of diversity by constructing single link dendrogram using DUS descriptors. Similarity co-efficient of Jaccard were estimated on the basis of 23 DUS descriptors ranged from 0.2703 (between LM-584 and GP-229-B, LM-584 and No-223(1), LM-584 and LM-1) to 1.000 (between LM-353 and LM-385). Similarity indices 1.000 indicated most similar genotypes while, LM-584 showed most divergence with GP-229-B, No-223(1) and LM-1 genotypes. \r\nWaniale et al. (2014) found 90 to 100 per cent similarity among the genotypes which shows conformity of result.\r\nThe distribution of all the genotypes based on the clusters from UPGMA dendrogram is shown in Fig. 1 and Table 3. Clusters A and B were two main clusters with 39 % similarity. Cluster A was partitioned into A2 and A1 sub-clusters (47 % similarity among them). Sub-cluster A1 was again partitioned into A1:1 (contains 26 genotypes) and A1:2 (contains 1 genotype) sub-clusters with 48 % similarity. Sub-cluster A2 was partitioned into sub-clusters. \r\nA2:1 (contains 1 genotype) and A2:2 (contains 1 genotype) with 52 % similarity. Cluster B had 1 genotype and did not contain any sub-cluster. The results were in accordance with Waniale et al. (2014) (studied 35 genotypes and found 5 clusters).\r\n','Dhruv P. Joshi, L.D. Parmar, Ravinder Kumar and L.P. Patel (2022). Morphological Diversity and characterization of Mungbean (Vigna radiata L. Wilczek) Genotypes using Distinctiveness, Uniformity and Stability Descriptors. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 14(2): 1102-1110.'),(5015,'125','Conservation and Seed Quality enhancement of Buchanania lanzan Spreng: an endangered NWFP species of Madhya Pradesh','Manish Kumar Vijay*, Nanita Berry, Neeraj Prajapati and Rathod Digvijaysinh Ummedsinh','191 Conservation and Seed Quality enhancement of Buchanania lanzan Spreng an endangered NWFP species of Madhya Pradesh Manish Kumar Vijay 2708.pdf','',1,'Buchanania lanzan Spreng. is an important underutilized fruit tree species. At present, it is grouped as non-nationalized minor forest produce, so it is free for collection. Indiscriminate harvesting, climate change, large-scale urbanization, and developmental activities, pose a very severe threat to its extinction. This species has a scattered distribution in forest areas. Local people are doing unscientific harvesting of this species, such as cutting the whole trees, and heavy lopping of branches for the collection of seeds from trees. Long gestation period (15-20 years) and large variability, low germination of seeds due to hard seed coats, recalcitrant in nature, and fungal contamination associated with the storage of seeds are the other major problems associated with this species. It require special treatments, for overcoming dormancy with better vegetative growth. The application and effectiveness of pre-treatment such as scarification (physical and chemical using acid) in this species have been reported in many studies. But the chances to damaging delicate embryos and the harmful ecological and biological impacts of mechanical and acid treatment push us to find new alternatives. Seed enhancement technologies (SETs), such as pre-sowing, pre-storage, and mid-storage treatments, are widely practiced in present-day seed science and technology in the agriculture sector but have found very little application in forest tree seed improvements. As a result, there is a lot of room for these technologies to be used to improve this potentially profitable economic species. Thus in order to augment its sustainable production, and livelihood security, and fullest utilization of species : need to awareness among the people for conservation of trees, proper research support on the application of many new SETs is the need of the hour for conservation and up-gradation of seed quality of this vulnerable NWFP species. This review aims to present an overview of the currently available SETs along with the present status of research and development in this potential economic but vulnerable NWFP species of Madhya Pradesh. ','Seed quality enhancement (SQE), Seed Enhancement Technologies (SETs), Non-Wood Forest Products (NWFP), Seed Priming, Buchanania lanzan, conservation','Among the minor forest produce chironji is important multipurpose forest species and source of livelihoods for forest fringe villagers. For such a valuable species, there is urgent need to conserved it and bringing more land under Chironji plantation with improved planting material.Popularization of this crop, particularly in rain-fed areas, and the provision of sufficient high-quality chironji seedling planting supplies are inadequate. In this context, the SETs discussed may be useful in improving seed viability, vigour, and conservation of these important species. Also help in meeting a quality planting material demands. Although still in its infancy in ecological restoration, SETs are expected to bring significant advances in plantation establishment, similar to what agricultural crop species have achieved. As a result, there is a compelling need to identify a suitable technology that allows for easy multiplication, regeneration, and conservation of the species, while also imparting and disseminating proper knowledge and education to the tribal population in order to stop destructive harvesting and raise awareness about the collection of ripe fruits at appropriate times.','INTRODUCTION\r\nBuchanania lanzan Spreng. (Chironji) is a socio-economically important underutilized fruit tree species, locally known as ‘Char’ by the tribal people of Madhya Pradesh. It is an excellent fruit tree of agro-forestry and social forestry. It is growing under forest conditions at present as an underexploited fruit crop and gives monetary reward to the tribal community of the count yard, which seems to be a boon for them. Fresh fruit is eaten rawand hasa pleasant flavor. Kernels havean almond-like flavor, eaten in raw or roasted form or as dry fruit in sweets (kheer) in India. About seven species of Buchanania have been reported in India, of which Buchanania lanzan and Buchanania axillaries (Syn. Angustifolia) produce edible fruits. Buchanania lanceolata, an endangered species, is found in the evergreen forests of Kerala while Buchanania platyneura is found in the Andaman Islands. Other species of the genus are Buchanania lucida, Buchanania glabra,and Buchanania accuminata. It seems to have originated in the Indian sub-continent. Besides India, the plant is found distributed in other tropical Asian countries, Australia, and Pacific islands also. Recently, Buchanania lanzan var. palodensis, a new variety is described and illustrated from Kerala (India). It differs from the typical variety by the smooth or slightly fissured bark, obovate to narrowly obovate leaves, faintly visible secondary and tertiary nerves, pedicellate flowers, broadly ovate bracts, suborbicular bracteoles and the depressed globose pinkish fruits at maturity (Santhosh et al., 2020). This species has a high socio-economic value for providing livelihood to the tribal population of the area besides possessing enormous potential as commercial horticultural species. The seeds/kernels of the plant yield fatty oil, which is a substitute for olive and almond oils and is widely used in confectionary as well as in Indigenenous Medicine System (IMS) (Prasad, 2020).\r\nAwasthi and Nisha (2020) discuss the cultivation, uses, chemical constituents, and therapeutic activities of Buchanania lanzan Spreng and emphasize the need for and importance of pharmacognostic study. At present,peoples destroy the branches/whole trees during the collection of its fruits without bothering about new plantations. Unfortunately, due to over-exploitation, indiscriminate harvesting (lopping and cutting), climate change, large scale urbanization, and developmental activities are undertaken in the tribal inhabited areas of states holding a natural population of this species, causing a considerable reduction in the population of Buchanania lanzan has been recorded in the recent past, leading to a very severe threat to its extinction, which calls for urgent conservation efforts at all levels. As per the literature survey, rare improvement work has been carried out on this species in central and eastern India. Research on the conservation program for this species is also lacking. Chironji is rapidly disappearing from its natural habitat, i.e., natural forest area, due to unsustainable seed harvesting, poor seed germination due to hard seed coat, dropped seed eaten by rodents and squirrels, and abiotic factors influencing the growth and regeneration of this tree. Due to indiscriminate branch cutting and lopping, this tree is subjected to fungal and insect pest attack. Other biotic variables such as grazing, hacking, and repetitive fire in a given region are also responsible for the faster decline of its population (Meshram and Soni 2014). B. lanzan is used for preparation of colour range from selected dye sources (Deshmukh and Ganeshani 2013). No systematic study has been conducted to identify good cultivars or selection of elite clones in this important minor fruit throughout the country especially in the state of Madhya Pradesh. So far, Thar Priya is the only variety, released by the Central Institute for Arid Horticulture, Bikaner, in 2014. Proper research support is an urgent requirement for addressing problems related to scientific tapping, harvesting, collection, processing (drying, grading, handling/storage), value addition, and seed quality upgrading in order to increase their sustainable production, conservation, livelihood security, and fullest utilisation.\r\nCONSTRAINTS IN PROPAGATION AND CONSERVATION OF CHIRONJI\r\nChironji plants are usually propagated via seed, which results in a long gestation period (15-20 years) and a lot of variation. Because of the strong seed coat on the kernels, germination percentages in freshly extracted seeds are low. Chip budding and softwood grafting are two examples of vegetative growth procedures that are standardised and recorded in Chironji. However, due to a lack of rootstock availability and a reliance on seasonal conditions, these are less effective. Furthermore, root cutting propagation is a time-consuming process (Singh et al., 2002). Singh et al. (2022) developed a protocol for organogenesis and in vitro multiplication of chironji using young leaf and nodal segments. Maximum 41 callus were induced in MS containing 2.5mg/l 2,4-D after 3 weeks of inoculations of leaf explants. However, limited success reported after hardening. While a technically knowledge is available on the in vitro culture of plants, there are limited literature related to plant conservation. The low proportion of seed germination in Chironji reforestation or domestication is attributed to stiff seed coats that are refractory in character, as well as fungal contamination associated with seed storage. The tree is grown from seeds that are protected by a hard shell. The difficult process before sowing is delicately cracking the shell, as the fruit within is typically quite sensitive and tender. Moreover, the fungal attack by Fusarium sp. (wilting disease) is common after sowing the seeds in the soil. The seedlings are also attacked by Fusarium monililforme var. subglutinans Wr. and Rg., F. semitectum Berk & Rav. present in the soil. Other which occur most frequently include Alternaria alternate (Pr.) Kessler, Aspergillus flavus Link, A. ochraceus Wilhelm., A. niger Van Tiegh., A. aculeatus Lizuka, A. funiculus Smith, Cladosporium Link ex Fr., Chaetomium globosum Kunze and Schm., Curvularia lunata (Wakker) Boedijn, Macrophomina phaseolina Ashby, Mucorvarians Povah, Penicillium citrinum Thom., Trichothecium roseum Link., Rhizopus arrhizus and Verticillium species (Sharma et al., 1998). Humidity and high temperatures are also conducive to fungal contamination. The seeds exposed to sunlight fail to germinate and soon lose their viability (Shende and Rai 2005). Neeta Sharma et al. (1998) reported four mycotoxigenic fungi, viz., Aspergillus j/avusgroup, A. ochraceus, Fusarium moniliforme, and Penicillium citrinum, the main producers of aflatoxin, ochratoxin, zearalenone, and citrinin, respectively, were of common occurrence in stored fruits of chironji. A higher percentage of mycotoxin contamination in the host mainly appears to be due to inadequate storage conditions, high atmospheric temperatures coupled with warm humid conditions conducive to the growth of fungi, and mycotoxin elaboration by toxigenic fungi. The growth is also very poor in comparison to other tropical species. Therefore, the selection of suitable germplasm is also needed which must have a larger seed size , more seed kernel ratio, fast growth, and less gestation period. As a result, there is a pressing need to develop a method that allows Chironji to be easily multiplied, regenerated, and conserved. In Chironji, exceptional selections must also be identified and characterised in order to promote this extremely promising indigenous horticultural fruit crop.\r\nSEED PROCESSING AND PRETREATMENT\r\nCurrently, the Chironji nut is processed manually and occasionally by a machine created locally. This traditional method entails soaking well-matured fruits in water for 24 hours, then removing the skin by hand rubbing and drying. Physical dormancy is common in Anacardiaceae seeds, which is aided by an impermeable endocarp, as described by Li et al. (1999). Due to seed dormancy, Chironji seeds have a low germination percentage even when exposed to ideal germination circumstances. It could be the result of morphological features like hard seed, thick testa, or improper storage or handling (secondary dormancy). As a result of this circumstance, chironji seedlings\' vegetative growth and biomass are lower. As a result, special treatments like stratification, scarification, soaking in water, growth regulators, and others may be required to overcome dormancy and improve vegetative development. At present, scarification, either mechanical or chemical is most commonly practiced. The dried nut is broken by rubbing between a pair of stone-slabs or hammers followed by separation of the kernel from the hull. In some areas, local artisansdeveloped motorized machines for breaking and separating, but the machines were not specifically designed. So, they are again manually separated (Prasad, 2020). Shukla and Solanki (2000) found that artificially breaking the seed coat with a hammer before spreading seed resulted in good seed germination and seedling growth. The seed of BuchnaniaLanzan handled mechanically by a hammer offered higher germination and seedling growth, according to the Centre of Forest Research and Human Resource Development, Chhindwara (Annual Report, 2005-06). Similar observations were also observed by Kamal Naryan et al. (2014). Chemical scarification by conc. H2SO4 (5%) treatment also resulted in an increased germination percentage. (Kamal Naryan et al. 2014; Anand et al., 2014; Chauhan et al., 2020).\r\nThe most efficient approach to improve seed germination in chironji through physical and chemical treatments by Thounaojam and Dhaduk (2021), is to increase the rate of imbibition and induce cracking on the hard seed coat by alternate wetting and drying of seed and seed dipping in water. The seed germination and vegetative growth of chironji are improved by pre-sowing treatment with chemicals such as GA3, KNO3, and thiourea (Rajamanickam et al., 2002). Joshi et al., (2017) showed that pre-sowing treatments such as GA3 200 ppm and mechanical scarification had similar effects on Chironji seedling growth and biomass characteristics. Application of GA3 200 ppm solution for 24 hours prior to sowing showed better performance for all seed germination parameters viz., days required for germination, germination percentage and seed vigour and with respect to seedling growth parameters viz., seedling height, number of leaves per plant, stem diameter, leaf area and final percent survival. Based on the B-C ratio, it was determined that mechanical scarification (breaking hard seed coat by hammering) was a beneficial and cost-effective treatment for commercial seed germination of Charoli (Vishal et al., 2019). Therefore, an attempt has been made toward the automation of the charoli decortication process. The decorticator performance was evaluated at three levels of disc speeds, disc clearances, and different moisture levels of charoli seed, viz., 197, 246, and 286 rpm; 6, 7, and 8 mm; and 7.83, 8.57; and 9.04% wb, respectively. The optimum value of disc speed, disc clearance, and seed moisture content was found to be 197 rpm, 7 mm, and 9.04% (wb), respectively (Nishad et al., 2022). Treatments with 200ppm GA3 and 4% H2SO4 were effective in breaking the dormancy of the seeds, resulting in 90% and 61% germination, respectively.In cold water treatment, only 56% of seeds germinated; in control only 25% seeds germinated in the untreated seeds; and germination was not observed in the intact seeds with the impermeable seed coat. Results are indicative of positive responses to treatments, while impermeable seed coats may be responsible for prolonged dormancy in intact control seeds (Ajith et al., 2018). However, almost all researchers emphasized that due to delicate embryos, manual or mechanical extraction of seeds causes a heavy waste of valuable germplasm. Chances to damage delicate embryos and harmful ecological/ biological impacts of acid treatment push us to find new alternatives for the promotion of seed-based restoration of this vulnerable NWFP species of Madhya Pradesh.\r\nSEED ENHANCEMENT TECHNOLOGIES (SETS)\r\nDue to a variety of edaphic and biotic challenges, seed-based restoration is frequently unsuccessful. Seed enhancement technologies (SETs) are a unique way to reduce these constraints and increase restoration success (Pedrini et al., 2020). But it has received little attention in ecological restoration for a variety of reasons, including the extensive research and development required to adapt existing crop seed technologies to complex and diverse native seed types, the high initial cost of equipment, and scaling challenges. Yet, because the benefits of such technologies far outweigh the costs, they are a typical feature in crop and horticultural seed supply chains (Pedrini et al., 2017). Traditional approaches to seed augmentation, including as pre-sowing, pre-storage, and mid-storage treatments, are widely used in today\'s seed research and technology (Sharma et al., 2015). \r\nScarification, stratification, seed pelleting, seed priming, seed coating, and seed protection treatments for the removal of harmful microbes are all used as pre-sowing treatments to break dormancy, increase germination, and for precision sowing of seeds. Pre-storage and mid-storage treatments are generally applied to enhance or maintain the viability and vigour of seeds during storage (Fig. 1).\r\nSeed priming is one of the several SETs that have been effectively used to improve seed and seedling performance of agricultural plants as well as some native plants. It is the regulated hydration of seeds to a level that allows pre-germinative metabolic activity to continue while preventing the radical\'s actual appearance. When compared to non-primed seeds from the same seed batch, primed seeds usually produce more uniform and faster seedling emergence from the soil. Two phases are involved in the priming treatments: (a) seed hydration and (b) seed dehydration. During hydration, significant advancements in the germination process occur, including mobilisation of reserves, DNA, RNA, cell membranes, organelles, and other processes (Bray, 1995). During storage, seeds preserve these modifications. Priming leads to a reduction in the duration of the IInd phase of seed germination. Consequently, primed seeds germinate fast and synchronically. \r\nDepending on the type of media used, seed priming can be achieved in a variety of ways. Several priming techniques have been shown to have beneficial effects, including salt solution (halopriming), beneficial microbe solutions (biopriming), osmotic solutions (osmopriming), plant hormone solutions (hormonal priming), the presence of a magnetic field (magneto-priming), and solutions mixed with a solid carrier (matriconditioning) (Fig. 2). Several recent studies have demonstrated effectiveness in overcoming embryo and seed coat dormancy and boosting germination in agricultural crop species utilising nano-priming employing nanoparticles as an unique and efficient seed priming and growth enhancer agent (Mahakham et al., 2017). The capacity of NPs to pass through both the cell wall and the seed coat has been suggested as a possible mechanism for higher germination rates (Haghighi & Silva 2014; Liu et al., 2009).\r\nThese SETs treatments should not be used haphazardly for the sake of novelty or innovation, but rather should have a demonstrated benefit with deployment capable of targeting specific ecological or logistical limitations and giving every seed the best chance for germination, emergence, and successful establishment (Pedrini et al, 2020).\r\nSTATUS OF GERMPLASM CONSERVATION IN CHIRONJI\r\nBuchanania lanzan was added to the International Union for Conservation of Nature and Natural Resources\' Red Data Book in 2009. As a result, the conservation and sustainable use of this type of species is critical for environmentally sustainable development, food security, and the development of the nation\'s socioeconomically disadvantaged communities. Chironji seeds are recalcitrant, and even after 3 months of harvesting, they lose vitality quickly. In order to preserve the genetic variety of Chironji, both in-situ and ex-situ techniques should be adopted. In the current situation, the best strategy for Chironji germplasm conservation is to combine immediate ex situ conservation (i.e. field genebanking and cryobanking) with in-situ conservation (i.e. on-farm conservation and protected places like National Parks). Ex-situ field genebanks are currently being constructed at the Indian Council of Agricultural Research\'s horticulture research facilities in Godhra, Gujarat, and Lucknow, Uttar Pradesh, for conservation and the development of enhanced propagation methods. Collected germplasm has been cryostored in the National Cryogene Bank at NBPGR, New Delhi, as a base collection reflecting significant diversity in the form of 127 accessions for posterity and future use (Malik et al., 2012). As far as the public knowledge pool is concerned, no research on storability enhancement for the conservation of this species has been conducted. In the agriculture sector, several SETs, such as pre-storage and mid-storage treatments, are commonly used to improve or preserve the viability and vigour of seeds during storage (Fig. 1). For the sake of conservation, these technologies must also be tested on this species.\r\n','Manish Kumar Vijay, Nanita Berry, Neeraj Prajapati and Rathod Digvijaysinh Ummedsinh (2022). Conservation and Seed Quality Enhancement of Buchanania lanzan Spreng: an endangered NWFP species of Madhya Pradesh. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 14(2): 1111-1116.'),(5016,'125','Evaluation of Physical Parameters of Drinking Water for Livestock','N. Kumaravelu* and D. Divyalakshmi','192 Evaluation of Physical Parameters of Drinking Water for Livestock N. Kumaravelu.pdf','',1,'Watering is an important management aspect in livestock farming. A study was conducted to assess the physical parameters of water for livestock in Vellore district. A total of four villages, Sholingur (V1) and Kodaikkal (V2) from Sholingur block and Manthangal (V3) and Pulianthangal (V4) from Walajah block were selected for the study. Water samples of 500ml capacity collected in leak proof pet bottles from tap, bore well, pond, open well and lake were tested at University Training and Research Centre, Vellore for testing for physical parameters using water testing Kit supplied by State level water listing lab, Tamil Nadu Water and Drainage Board (TWAD, 2015) Chennai – 600 005 to find out their suitability as drinking water for livestock. It was observed that the tap water, bore water and well water were clear in appearance, whereas pond water was slightly brownish and lake water was slightly greenish and brownish in appearance. All the water samples were hard invariable of season. Majority of the samples from pond possessed algal smell. Tap, bore and well water were clear and pond water was slightly turbid. The pH was by and large within the BIS standards. Pond water and lake water evinced algal and slightly objectionable odour. The livestock farmers must be educated on livestock water supply systems. ','Livestock, drinking water, physical quality, standards','In the present study the drinking water for livestock was evaluated for physical standards in Vellore district and thus summarized. Except water hardness, all other parameters were within the standards. ','INTRODUCTION\r\nWater is essential for sustaining all forms of life, food production, economic development and for general well being (Beede, 2005, 2006 and 2009). It is impossible to substitute its uses, expensive to transport, and it is truly a unique gift to mankind and livestock from nature. \r\nWater quality has become a global concern due to over increasing population and developmental activities that had over exploit and polluted the water resources available to us (Gupta et al., 2009). Ground water pollution has become a growing threat to human society and natural ecosystems from the past two decades (Shivapur and Basarikatti 2016). \r\nWater is used in body for different purposes, almost in everybody function (Olkowski, 2005), including thermoregulation, lubrication, medium for chemical reactions, digestion, absorption, lactation, carrier, support, cushion, mineral balance and help for other nutrients to complete their functions (Lardner et al., 2005; Hersom et al., 2008). The hydro resource plays a major role in agriculture, hydropower generation, livestock production, industrial activities, forestry, fisheries, navigation, recreational activities, etc. Apart from various water resources the groundwater is an important source of water for drinking, irrigation, and livestock use etc. It accounts for about 80% of domestic water requirement and more than 45% of the total irrigation in the country. The remaining water available for livestock is polluted in various forms, making the water unfit for livestock consumption. Brew et al., (2009) explained a positive response in the performance of livestock when provided with wholesome water. \r\nThere are a number of physical, chemical, and microbiological parameters which are interrelated to define the water quality (Barik and Thorat 2015). The effect of these properties may have either direct or indirect effect on health or may cause decrease in overall water intake indirectly lowering the growth and production of animals (Brew et al., 2009). Hence an attempt was taken to study the various physical parameters of drinking water for livestock in Vellore district of Tamil Nadu.\r\nMATERIALS AND METHODS\r\nThe study was carried out in four villages of Vellore district in Tamil Nadu, namely Sholingur (V1), Kodaikkal (V2), Manthangal (V3) and Pulianthangal (V4). The water samples were collected from shallow water sources comprising lakes, ponds and river bed and underground water sources comprising open well, bore well and tap water which formed the drinking water sources for livestock. Eight samples were collected from each source in a village once during winter (December, January and February) and summer (March, April and May), respectively. Thus a total number of 96 water samples were collected and were subjected to various physical analysis. The data collected were subjected to statistical analysis as per the method of Snedecor and Cochran (1994). \r\nRESULTS AND DISCUSSION\r\nThe appearance, odour and turbidity of water samples collected from tap, bore well, pond, open well and lake are presented in Table 1. It is observed that tap water, bore water and well water were clear in appearance, whereas the pond water was slightly greenish and slightly brownish (50%). The water sample collected from lakes were slightly greenish (75%) and slightly brownish (25%). As per the BIS (2012) standards, colourless and clear water is ideal for drinking purpose. Pond and lake water were slightly greenish and slightly brownish in appearance. This may be due to the presence of suspended particles like sand and clay which tend to give brownish tint and presence of blue green algae and other aquatic plant organisms which gives greenish tint to the water. This is in agreement with Beede (2006) who reported that colour of water helps to assess the organoleptic properties of water and Curren (2014) opined that suspended matter in water including silt, organic matter, blue green algae and chemical pollutants significantly affects livestock. In the present situation, there is no control over the source of pollution in shallow water bodies like lakes and ponds and hence it may be reason for the appearance of colours like brown and green in water. \r\nIt is observed from the Table 1, that all samples from tap, bore and pond water were possessing odour. Most of the samples collected from pond had algal smell and six had slightly objectionable smell. Only six samples collected in lake water were odourless and the rest of the samples from other sources had algal smell. As per BIS (2012) potable water must be odourless. Suspended matters, aquatic plants and pollutants may be the cause for odour in stagnant water like lakes and ponds. Except pond and lake water, the rest of the samples collected from other water sources were clear in consistency. Turbidity is an indicator of solid matter suspended in water. Umar et al. (2014) suggested that the suspended matter may be inorganic, organic and microorganisms which significantly affects the health of livestock. The factors influencing turbidity in water include domestic pollution, stagnation for long time and algal bloom (Curren, 2014). Sharma et al., (2013) found a negative co-relation between transparency and turbidity values of water samples in their study.\r\nThe mean ± SE (mg/L) of hardness, total dissolved solids (TDS) and pH in water samples collected is presented in Table 2. In summer hardness ranged between 133.36± 5.57 and 847.51 ±15.49 and in winter between 126.50 ± 9.15 and 850.00 ± 97.38. In both the seasons the hardness was minimum in the tap water in V3 and lake in V2, respectively. Open wells in V2 had highest hardness in summer. Significant difference (p<0.5) was observed between the water sources in V2 in summer and highly significant difference (p < 0.01) were noted between water sources in V1 and V2 during winter. During summer between the villages significant difference in hardness was noted only among bore wells. No difference was observed in winter among villages between the water sources. Almost all the water samples collected and tested in the study area except open well in V2 during both the seasons were above the permissible limit of BIS (2012) which states that maximum hardness for potable water must be less than 600 mg/L. \r\nValtorta et al. (2007) opined that the abiotic factors have their own influence on water quality and ultimately on animal growth and performance. Salinity or TDS is basic of them. Excessive salivation, diarrhea, vomiting, blindness, seizures, ataxia, disorientation, and paralysis are the acute effects of excessive salinity. Hardness is a measure of concentration of divalent metallic cations dissolved in water and is generally expressed as sum of calcium and magnesium expressed as equivalent to calcium carbonate (Higgins et al., 2008). The hardness values observed in the present study were comparable with the findings of Sharma et al., (2013). In summer the TDS was found to be least in tap water (413.20 ± 11.82) and highest in open wells (2681.76 ± 273.10). Except lake water, significant difference in TDS was observed among all water sources in summer between villages. Among the villages, difference was observed between sources in V1, V2 and V4 in summer and in winter in V1 and V3. In all the water sources studied, except in open well in V2 TDS were within the maximum permissible limit of 2000mg/L according to BIS (2012). \r\nThe pH was found using the pH paper strip and the colour change was compared with the pH chart. The pH ranged between 5.50 ± 0.50 and 6.40± 0.16 in summer and 5.70± 0.30 and 7.00± 0.00 during winter season in the study area. In summer lowest pH was observed in lakes and highest in both tap and lake water. Whereas in winter pH was lowest in open well and highest in the entire water source in V1 and V2. Highly significant (p<0.01) difference was observed in pH among the water sources in V4 in summer, whereas no significant difference was observed between sources in all the villages during winter. Among the villages, pH of tap water differed significantly, whereas in winter highly significant difference was observed in pH within water sources. As per BIS (2012) report, pH ranging between 6.5 and 8.5 is permissible for drinking water. Wright (2007) discussed that pH level accepted for livestock drinking water is 6-8. The pH less than 5.5 causes acidosis, a potential problem of weight loss and production. Other than these ranges pH may cause reduced water and feed intake, digestive alteration, diarrhoea, poor feed conversion as observed by Wright (2007); Zimmerman et al., (2002). The pH seems to effect by changing taste, efficiency of chlorination, corrosive potential and many other properties of drinking water. All chemical reactions depend on pH of water, which is nothing but the concentration of hydrogen ions. The low pH can affect the mucous membrane and high pH can affect digestive system. Beede (2006); Higgins et al., (2008) reported that drinking water for dairy cattle with pH between 5 and 9 is considered as acceptable. Similar water pH values were reported by other workers in different water sources (Prabhakar et al., 2012; Arora et al., 2013; Sharma et al., 2013; Gupta et al., 2011).\r\n','N. Kumaravelu and D. Divyalakshmi (2022). Evaluation of Physical Parameters of Drinking Water for Livestock. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 14(2): 1117-1120.'),(5017,'125','Survey of New Invasive Pest Rugose Spiralling Whitefly, Aleurodicus Rugioperculatus Martin in and around Bhubaneswar','Thalluri Revanth Sri*, Jayaraj Padhi, Ajit Kumar Sahoo and Yogesh Kumar H.D.','193 Survey of New Invasive Pest Rugose Spiralling Whitefly, Aleurodicus Rugioperculatus Martin in and around Bhubaneswar Thalluri Revanth Sri.pdf','',1,'The new invasive pest Rugose spiralling whitefly, Aleurodicus rugioperculatus Martin has spread in around Bhubaneswar (Odisha) since its first report and has become a serious pest in the several pockets of India. The polyphagous nature of this pest allows it to spread on various hosts effortlessly. Consequently, a survey was conducted to observe the incidence of rugose spiralling whitefly (RSW) on various crop plants in and around Bhubaneswar during 2020-21. Various sampling methods were employed to record the population dynamics of various growth stages of the pest. The intensity of RSW damage was calculated using the scale given by Central Plantation Crops Research Institute (CPCRI), ICAR, Kasaragod, Kerala. From the entire investigation it was observed that RSW has become a serious pest invading several hosts such as plantation crops, fruit crops, medicinal plants, spices, ornamentals, avenue trees, vegetables and field crops which are spreading over 24 families. Coconut, banana and guava proved to be preferred host for RSW with highest number live spirals, eggs, nymphs, pupae and adults per leaflet or leaf.','Rugose spiralling whitefly, survey, incidence, infestation, fruit crops, ornamentals, plantation crops','From the entire investigation it may be concluded that RSW has become a serious pest invading several hosts such as plantation crops, fruit crops, medicinal plants, spices, ornamentals, avenue trees, vegetable and field crops which are spreading over 24 families.','INTRODUCTION\r\nRugose spiralling whitefly, Aleurodicus rugioperculatus Martin, is a recent invasive pest, initially reported on gumbo limbo (Bursera simaruba L.) at Sarg from Miami-Dade County, Florida in 2009 (Francis et al., 2016). RSW was first described by Martin in 2004 from samples collected in Belize on coconut palm leaves. It is believed to have originated from Central America and its mode of entry into India is unknown. However, the pest was most likely to have entered the country via trade in ornamental plants (Shanas et al., 2016).\r\nIn India, RSW was first reported on coconut palm in Tamil Nadu at Coimbatore during September, 2016 (Sundararaj and Selvaraj, 2017). It was also found infesting banana, mango, sapota, Indian almond, custard apple and several ornamental plants in Kerala, Karnataka and Andhra Pradesh. It almost affects eachand every part of the coconut palm including inflorescence, exocarp and entire under surface of leaf lamina (Selvaraj et al., 2016). RSW is highly polyphagous with 118 host plants belonging to 43 plant families including economically important crops (Francis et al., 2016).\r\nTheir adults are three times larger (about 2.5 mm) in size than common whiteflies and are typically lethargic. Adults are characterized by their enormous size and a pair of uneven light brown stripes across the wings. Males have elongated pincer like structures at the end of their abdomen. Females deposit eggs in a concentric circular or spiral manner on the ventral side of the leaves and are covered with white waxy substance. Eggs are oval in shape and colour varies from creamy white to dark yellow. Nymphs are typically 1.1–1.5 mm long, although their size varies depending on instar. The nymphs are light to golden yellow in colour and generate a thick, cottony wax as well as long, thin waxy filaments which become denser over time (Stocks and Hodges 2012).\r\nThe RSW infestation ranged from 20 to 35 % in coconut and 24 to 38 % in banana in Mangaluru and Udupi districts of Karnataka (Selvaraj et al., 2017). The RSW infestation ranged from 75.85 to 95.00 % on coconut, 82.93 % on banana and 63.50 to 79.00 % on guava, whereas the incidence of RSW ranged from 81.42 to 100.00 % on coconut, 83.13 to 100.00 % on banana and 53.30 to 92.00 % on guava in West Godavari district of Andhra Pradesh (Sushmitha et al., 2020). \r\nVarious indigenous predators like Pseudomallada sp., Cybocephalus sp., Diadiplosis sp. and Jauravia pallidula were observed on RSW by Poorani and Thanigairaj, 2017. Predators like Chrysoperla zastrowii and Dichochrysa sp. nr. astur were predominantly recorded in the infested tracts of RSW in Andhra Pradesh (Krishnarao and Rao, 2019). Parasitoids like Encarsia guadeloupae, E. noyesi, E. dispersa were found associated with RSW (Karthick et al., 2018).\r\nThe present research was conducted to know the incidence and infestation of RSW in and around Bhubaneswar on various host plants. An attempt was also made to find out the occurrence of natural enemies of RSW. \r\nMATERIAL AND METHODS\r\nSurvey on incidence and infestation of RSW was conducted in Horticultural Research Station (HRS). All India Coordinated Research Project (AICRP) on Palms, Odisha University of Agriculture and Technology, Bhubaneswar, Coconut Development Board (CDB), Khordha and other various households in and around Bhubaneswar, which comes under the coastal zone. The incidence RSW was recorded in plantation crops, fruit crops, medicinal plants, spices, ornamentals, avenue trees, vegetables, and field crops. An attempt was also made to explore occurrence of natural enemies.\r\nThe damage intensity of RSW was recorded by observing number of egg spirals from three leaflets per palm, one each from top, middle and bottom whorls of the palm in case of coconut, whereas in case of guava and banana leaves were randomly selected from top, middle and bottom canopy of the plants/trees from North, South, East and West directions. The intensity of RSW damage was calculated using the scale given by Central Plantation Crops Research Institute (CPCRI), ICAR, Kasaragod, Kerala (Table 1).\r\nIn order to observe the incidence of RSW, total number of different host plants were counted in various orchards and households in Bhubaneswar and the number of plants infested with RSW were recorded. Percentage incidence of RSW was calculated using the following formula.\r\n To find out the percentage infestation of RSW, total number of leaves were counted on the crown of coconut plants, while in case of other host plants 20 leaves were counted and the leaves infested with RSW were recorded. Percentage infestation of RSW was calculated using the following formula.\r\n Number of egg spirals were recorded from three leaflets per palm, one each from top, middle and bottom whorls of the palm in case of coconut, whereas in case of guava and banana leaves were randomly selected from top, middle and bottom canopy of the plants/trees from North, South, East and West directions and averaged to number of galleries or spirals per leaflet/ leaf. Among the total number of spirals, live galleries are sorted by the presence of eggs in the spirals and the count was averaged to number of live galleries per leaflet or leaf.\r\nPresence of eggs were observed with the help of a pocket magnifying glass (24 X) from two spirals observed on three leaflets/ leaf on each 5 randomly selected plants. The total number of eggs per leaf was calculated based on the number of spirals present on the leaf. Total number of nymphs, pupae and adults were recorded from five leaflets/ leaf on each five randomly selected plants and then averaged to number per leaflet or leaf.\r\nRESULTS AND DISCUSSION\r\nThe survey on RSW incidence on various host plants revealed that among the different host plants infested by RSW, the highest incidence (100.00 %) was observed in seven families viz., Amaryllidaceae, Moraceae, Malvaceae, Magnoliaceae, Combretaceae, Myrtaceae and Sterlitzaceae. The crop families such as Annonaceae, Arecaceae and Sapotaceae, were recorded with more than 90 percent RSW incidence. Survey carried out at various research institutes of Bhubaneswar showed 85.00 to 100.00, 100.00 and 35.00 percent RSW incidence on coconut, banana and guava, respectively (Table 2). The present findings are well supported to the results observed by Sushmitha et al. (2020), who reported 81.40 to 100.00 % incidence on coconut, 100.00 % incidence on banana and 92.00 % incidence on guava in west Godavari district of Andhra Pradesh.\r\nThe survey undertaken on incidence of RSW on fruit crops (Table 4) showed that Jamun (Syzygium cumini) recorded highest RSW incidence (100.00 %), while phalsa observed with least RSW incidence (5.60 %). In ornamental plants (Table 5) 100.00 % RSW incidence was observed on beach, spider lilly and bird of paradise, whereas lowest incidence was found in Ixora plant (19.00 %). In case of avenue trees (Table 6) cent per cent RSW incidence was recorded on champak, kapok and Indian almond, whereas least incidence was noticed in karanj (12.53 %). The survey conducted on field crops revealed that Saccharum officinarum and Zea mays recorded 20 and 70 % RSW incidence, respectively.\r\nThe RSW infestation on coconut, banana and guava at various research institutes of Bhubaneswar was recorded 67.00 to 71.35 %, 72.00 to 81.69 % and 40 %, respectively (Table 2). The present findings are in agreement with the results of Sushmitha et al. (2020), who reported RSW infestation of 75.85 to 95.00 %, 82.93 % and 63.50 to 79.00 % on coconut, banana and guava, respectively in west Godavari district of Andhra Pradesh. The results of present investigation are similar with the findings of Mohan et al. (2017), who recorded that 60 to 70 % RSW infestation of the fronds in affected coconut gardens. The current research work derived ample support from the findings of Srinivasan et al. (2016) who observed 70 % infestation in banana crop.\r\nThe RSW damage intensity in the current investigations were found to be medium to high on coconut and banana and low on guava (Table 2). Similar results were also reported by Selvaraj et al. (2017), who observed severe damage by RSW in coconut and banana in Mangalore and Udupi\'s coastal areas.\r\nThe mean number of spirals per leaflet on coconut, banana and guava was observed to be 19.97, 23.10 and 7.60 respectively in various orchards in Bhubaneswar (Table 2). These results are in close proximity with the reports of Sushmitha et al. (2020), who reported 20.05, 26.33 and 7.5 spirals per leaflet/leaf on coconut, banana and guava, respectively in Godavari districts of Andhra Pradesh.\r\nThe data recorded on incidence of RSW in and around Bhubaneswar revealed that the highest number of spirals per leaf (11.00) was found on neem and lowest number of spirals was observed in aloe vera (2.00) in case of medicinal and aromatic plants. In spices, turmeric recorded with 2.00 spirals per leaf (Table 3). Among the fruit crops maximum number of spirals (23.00) was observed in banana, whereas phalsa recorded the minimum number of spirals per leaf (1.00). In vegetable crops the ivy gourd was found with 2.00 spirals per leaf (Table 4), whereas in ornamentals highest number of spirals per leaf (26.00) was noticed on bird of paradise and lowest number of spirals per leaf (1.00) was present on acalypha, jatropa, rangoon creeper, devil\'s ivy and garden croton (Table 5).\r\nAmong the avenue hosts detected the highest spirals per leaf were found on Indian almond (26.00) and least spirals per leaf was found in karanj (1.00). Highest number of spirals per leaf in field crops was found in maize (10.00) and lowest number of spirals per leaf was recorded in sugarcane (8.00) (Table 6). The mean number of live spirals per leaflet or leaf was 17.79, 19.60 and 6.40 on coconut, banana and guava, respectively in Bhubaneswar (Table 2). The present results are corroborating with the observations of Sushmitha et al. (2020), who reported 17.17, 19.67 and 7.50 live spirals per leaflet or leaf on coconut, banana and guava, respectively. In medicinal and aromatic plants highest number of live spirals were observed in neem (11.00) and lowest number was found on aloe vera (2.00). In spices turmeric recorded 2.00 live spirals per leaf (Table 3). Among fruit crops banana reported maximum number live spirals per leaf (21.00) and minimum number of spirals (1.00) was recorded in both mango and phalsa. Ivy gourd was recorded with 2.00 live spirals per leaf (Table 4). Highest number of live spirals (21.00) was found on bird of paradise and butterfly palm (Table 5). In avenue trees maximum number of live spirals per leaf was present on peepal tree and minimum number of spirals present in karanj (1.00 per leaf). In field crops highest number of live spirals per leaf was found on maize (8.00) followed by sugarcane (6.50) (Table 6). \r\nThe mean number of eggs per leaflet or leaf was 340.20 to 355.96, 360.96 to 400 and 97.79 on coconut, banana and guava, respectively in Bhubaneswar (Table 2). This result derives support from the findings of Srinivasan et al. (2017), who observed 10.00 to 20.00 egg spirals per leaflet in Kenthali Dwarf (KTD). In medicinal and aromatic plants, the highest number of eggs per leaf (187.00) was obtained on neem and lowest number of eggs per leaf (35.00) was recorded in aloe vera (Table 3). Among the fruit crops highest number of eggs were recorded on banana (430.00) and lowest number of eggs per leaf was found on phalsa (12.00). In ivy gourd 33.20 eggs were found per leaf (Table 4). Among the ornamentals, highest number of eggs per leaf was found on bird of paradise (487.20) and least number of eggs per leaf was recorded from golden thryallis (16.00) (Table 5). In avenue trees highest number of eggs per leaf was found on Indian almond (579.80) and karanj recorded lower number of eggs per leaf (12.00). In field crops maize was observed with highest number of eggs per leaf (148.00) and sugarcane was reported with least number of eggs per leaf (87.75) (Table 6). The survey conducted on RSW incidence on medicinal aromatic plants such as neem and aloe vera in and around Bhubaneswar recorded only egg stages. These findings are in accordance with Elango and Nelson (2020), who stated that neem supported only the egg stage of RSW. Among the fruit crops, mango, citrus, bael and phalsa supported only egg stages, which are in accordance with the results of Srinivasan et al. (2017) who stated that mango couldn’t support all life stages in Tamil Nadu. The present research is almost in the line of findings by Elango et al. (2019), who stated that amongst all host plants coconut and banana are the most preferable hosts to RSW.\r\nIn the present study only four ornamental plants were found supporting all the life stages of RSW, while twelve others did not support all the stages. This result is in agreement with the findings of Krishnarao et al. (2019), who stated that some ornamental plants discouraged the RSW development but adult whiteflies preferred for feeding and laying eggs. In field crops such as maize and sugarcane except eggs, no other growth stages were recorded. The results are similar to the findings of Bhavani et al. (2020), who reported that distinctive egg spirals were seen on leaves, but no developmental stages like larvae or pupae were observed.\r\nThe number of RSW nymphs per leaflet or leaf on coconut, banana and guava were 36.30 to 41.60, 32.00 to 38.15 and 17.20, respectively in different research institutes of Bhubaneswar. Number of RSW pupae per leaflet or leaf was 22.80 to 27.70, 22.75 to 28.28 and 20.00 on coconut, banana and guava, respectively in Bhubaneswar (Table 2). In fruit crops highest number of RSW nymphs per leaf (34.00) was recorded on banana and lowest number of nymphs per leaf (15.00) was found on jack fruit (Table 4). Among the ornamentals bird of paradise recorded highest number of nymphs per leaf (38.50) and lowest number was noticed on golden thryallis (12.00) (Table 5). In avenue trees maximum number of nymphs per leaf (36.50) was recorded on Indian almond while cassia registered minimum number (21.00) (Table 6). Among the fruit crops highest number of pupae per leaf was recorded on banana (23.00) and lowest number were found on sapota (12.00) (Table 4). In ornamentals bird of paradise registered maximum number of pupae per leaf (28.90) while minimum number was recorded on golden thryallis (5.00) (Table 5). Amongst avenue trees highest number of pupae per leaf was found on Indian almond (26.00) while cassia recorded lowest number (14.60) (Table 6). The mean number of RSW adults per leaflet or leaf was 66.11, 64.94 and 58.20 on coconut, banana and guava, respectively in various research institutes (Table 2). Highest number of adults per leaf was recorded on banana (81.50) and lowest number was found on jack fruit (12.50) in case of different fruit crops recorded in and around Bhubaneswar (Table 4). Among the ornamentals bird of paradise registered maximum number of adults (78.50) while minimum number of adults per leaf was found on golden thryallis (16.30) (Table 5). In avenue trees highest number of adults per leaf was found on Indian almond (83.50) whereas cassia recorded lower number of adults per leaf (32.00) (Table 6). The present results are in conformity with the findings of Sushmita et al. (2020), who reported RSW population (all the growth stages) of 121.60 to 127.25, 109.37 and 144 to 172.20 per leaflet on coconut, banana and guava, respectively.\r\nIn the present study several natural enemies were encountered with RSW such as predators like Cybocephalus spp., Chrysoperla sp., Nephaspis oculata, Oxyopes salticus and Uloborus sp. and a parasitoid, Encarsia sp. in and around Bhubaneswar. The present results derive support from the findings of Elango and Nelson (2020); Taravati et al. (2016). Elango and Nelson recorded a cybocephalid associated with RSW and Taravati et al. observed predation of RSW by Nephaspis oculata (Table 7).\r\n','Thalluri Revanth Sri, Jayaraj Padhi, Ajit Kumar Sahoo and Yogesh Kumar H.D. (2022). Survey of New Invasive Pest Rugose Spiralling Whitefly, Aleurodicus Rugioperculatus Martin in and Around Bhubaneswar. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 14(2): 1121-1129.'),(5018,'125','Correlation and Path Coefficient analysis in Screening of Submergence Tolerance in Rice (Oryza sativa L.) Genotypes of Manipur','N. Reetisana*, E.V.D. Sastry, Th Renuka, T. Julia and Artibashisha H. Pyngrope','194 Correlation and Path Coefficient Analysis in Screening of Submergence Tolerance in Rice _Oryza sativa L._ Genotypes of Manipur N. Reetisana.pdf','',1,'Submergence is one of the major abiotic stress conditions that affects rice production in rainfed lowland and flood affected areas. The present experiment was conducted in the experimental field of College of Agriculture, Central Agricultural University, Imphal, Manipur during kharif 2018 to evaluate seventy-six rice genotypes of Manipur along with four known checks (two susceptible and two tolerant) for submergence tolerance through correlation and path coefficient analysis to identify useful characters for improving crop yield under submergence stress. The correlation study revealed that in submerged condition, grain yield per plant was significantly and positively correlated with effective tillers per plant, spikelet per panicle, number of filled grains per panicle, spikelet fertility percentage and test weight. Path coefficient analysis revealed that spikelet per panicle, effective tillers per plant, test weight, spikelet fertility percentage, days to maturity and total tillers had high positive direct effect which indicated that these are the main contributors to grain yield per plant. Hence, selection of these characters would be effective for grain yield improvement of submergence tolerant rice genotypes.','Correlation, path analysis, submergence, rice','From the above study and investigation, it can be concluded that grain yield per plant in submerged condition was significantly and positively correlated with effective tillers per plant, spikelet per panicle, number of filled grains per panicle, spikelet fertility percentage and test weight. Path coefficient analysis revealed that spikelet per panicle, effective tillers per plant, test weight, spikelet fertility percentage, days to maturity and total tillers had high positive direct effect which indicated that direct selection based on these characters would be effective for grain yield improvement of submergence tolerant rice genotypes. Therefore, in breeding for submergence tolerance of rice genotypes these characters can be considered for improvement of yield in future however, further research can be carried out for affirmation of these results and for identifying other morpho-physiological traits that contributes in yield improvement under this stress condition.','INTRODUCTION\r\nRice (Oryza sativa L.) is an important primary cereal crop and major staple food for more than half of the world’s population. It is the primary source of food for about 57% of the world’s population and also played a major role as a staple food for over 2.7 billion people worldwide (Khush and Virk 2000). Globally, rain-fed lowland and deep-water rice account for about one- third of the total rice-growing area, which is about 50 Mha (Bailey-Serres and Voesenek 2010 and Singh et al., 2016). However, rain-fed fields are prone to flooding due to inadequate water management and changing climatic factors which leads to vagueness of rainfall affecting the rice yield. Thus, submergence is one of the major constraints to rice production in rain fed lowlands. \r\nTraditional rice varieties are lower in yield however, it possesses some adaptive traits that are required for survival in the flooded condition. In order to harness the productivity potential of novel materials, it is important to understand the magnitude and association of various agro-morphological traits with grain yield under normal as well as flooding environment (Kulsum et al., 2019). The correlation coefficients indicate the magnitude of association between the characters and also provide information about interrelationship among yield and its components i.e. helpful in efficient selection strategy. Path coefficient analysis partitions correlation coefficients into direct and indirect effects presenting correlation in a more meaningful way in breeding and the contribution of each character to yield (Mohsin et al., 2009). In rice, information on correlation coefficient has been helpful as a basis for selection in a breeding programme and plant breeders used path analysis to help identify useful features as selection criteria for improving crop yields (Milligan et al., 1990). Therefore, the present study was carried with the objective of finding out associations among different traits of the rice genotypes under study and also to assess direct and indirect effects of some agro-morphological traits on grain yield per plant under submergence stress condition.\r\nMATERIALS AND METHOD\r\nThe experiment was conducted in the experimental field of College of Agriculture, Central Agricultural University, Imphal, Manipur during kharif 2018 to evaluate 76 rice genotypes of Manipur along with four known checks (two susceptible and two tolerant). The experimental materials were planted in Augmented Randomized Block Design with replications of the checks. The experimental plot was divided into 5 blocks with 16 plots in first block and each 15 plots in the remaining four blocks. Fourteen days old seedlings were transplanted in a spacing of 20 cm between row to row and 20 cm between plant to plant. After seven days of transplanting, plants were kept in completely submerged condition for 14 days and after which excess water was drained out and kept just like in normal condition. The recommended package of practices was carried out to ensure healthy plant growth. The data collected were subjected to standard statistical procedures and correlation and path coefficient analysis were done using the software R-studio.\r\nRESULT AND DISCUSSION\r\nCorrelation coefficient analysis of grain yield per plant and yield related component traits showed both positive and negative associations (Table 1). Positive correlation result indicates that increase of one character will result in increase of the correlated character and it helps in simultaneous improvement of both the characters and negative association indicates that increase of one character will decrease the negatively correlated character.\r\nIn controlled condition, total tillers per plant (0.510), effective tillers per plant (0.541), panicle length (0.322), spikelet per panicle (0.684), number of filled grains per panicle (0.539) and test weight (0.406) displayed positive and significant association with grain yield per plant whereas in submerged condition, effective tillers per plant (0.407), spikelet per panicle (0.610) , number of filled grains per panicle (0.650), spikelet fertility percentage (0.308) and test weight (0.267) displayed positive and significant association with grain yield per plant. The findings were in accordance with the results of Nandan et al. (2010) who also reported a significant positive association of number of spikelets per panicle, number of filled grains per panicle and spikelet fertility percentage with grain yield per plant. Kulsum et al. (2019) also observed positive and significant association of spikelet fertility percentage and test weight with grain yield per plant. Fiyaz et al. (2011) also reported significant positive association of number of effective tillers per plant and number of spikelets per panicle with grain yield per plant. A positive association of panicle length and grain yield per plant was also reported by Lakshmi et al. (2014). This result shows that grain yield per plant of the genotypes could be improved by selecting \r\ngenotypes having higher performance for these characters. The detected positive and significant correlation of grain yield per plant with these characters indicated that effective tillers per plant, number of filled grains per panicle, spikelet fertility percentage and test weight simultaneously increased grain yield per plant in rice genotypes that were in submerged condition. Similar results were also revealed earlier by Mulugeta et al. (2012) in rain fed upland rice genotypes. Positive association of grain yield per plant was observed with days to maturity (0.058) and plant height (0.095) in controlled condition while in submerged condition positive association was recorded with days to 50% flowering (0.033), days to maturity (0.077), total tillers per plant (0.179) and panicle length (0.213). The positive association of grain yield per plant with days to maturity, plant height and panicle length was also reported by Kar et al. (2016).\r\nDays to 50% flowering (-0.109) displayed negative correlation with grain yield per plant in controlled condition which means that any increase in days to 50% flowering could result in decrease of grain yield per plant that is in concordance with the findings of Kampe et al. (2018) that revealed negative association of days to 50% flowering with grain yield. However, in submerged condition positive correlation (0.033) was recorded which reveals that increase in days to 50% flowering could result in increment of grain yield per plant. Days to 50% flowering have shown strong positive and significant correlation with days to maturity in both controlled and submerged condition. This indicated that increment of days to 50% flowering would lead to increment in days to maturity which might be attributed due to pleiotropic gene effects and linkage between genes for these characters which were in concordance with the findings of Iftekharuddaula et al. (2001); Kulsum et al. (2019) who reported strong positive and significant correlation of days to 50% flowering with days to maturity. In controlled condition, days to 50% flowering have shown negative and significant correlation with total tillers per plant (-0.236) and number of effective tillers per plant (-0.261). The results were in agreement with Gour et al. (2017) who have reported negative association of this trait with number of effective tillers per plant. \r\nDays to maturity was found to be significant and positively correlated with panicle length in both controlled and submerged condition. This result was also found to be in concordance with Ranjitha (2019), who also reported positive significant association of days to maturity with panicle length. In controlled condition, filled grains were found to be significant and positively correlated with days to maturity but non-significant in submerged condition. Plant height was found to be positive and significantly correlated with test weight in both controlled and submerged condition. Plant height was positively and significantly correlated with total tillers in controlled condition while correlated negatively and significantly with total tillers in submerged condition. The correlation of total tillers per plant was found to be positive and significant with effective tillers per plant in both controlled and submerged condition. These results were in accordance with Nandan et al. (2010) for a positive association of number of tillers per plant with number of effective tillers per plant. Panicle length was found to be positive and significantly correlated with spikelet per panicle and number of filled grains per panicle in both controlled and submerged condition. Spikelet per panicle was found to be positively and significantly correlated with filled grains in both controlled and submerged condition. The correlation of number of filled grains was found to be positive and significant with spikelet fertility percentage in both controlled and submerged condition. Kar et al. (2016) also reported similar results for a positive association of spikelet fertility percentage with number of filled grains per panicle and test weight.\r\nThe correlations were partitioned into direct and indirect effects through path coefficient analysis. It allows separating the direct effect and their indirect effects through other attributes by apportioning the correlations (Wright, 1921) for better interpretation of cause-and-effect relationship. Path analysis permits estimation of direct effects of various traits on yield as well as their indirect effects via other component traits (Pham et al., 2016). Direct positive effect on grain yield per plant of some characters indicated that selection of these traits will be directly helpful for the improvement of grain yield per plant whereas negative indirect effects showed that effects of such traits are indirectly affecting the grain yield per plant in the negative direction (Kulsum et al., 2019). Therefore, path coefficient analysis was worked out for grain yield per plant and grain yield related traits. The results are presented in Table 2.\r\nIn controlled condition, highest positive direct effect was found with number of filled grains per plant (0.467) followed by test weight (0.424), effective tillers (0.399) and spikelet per panicle (0.268). Rokonuzzaman et al. (2008) also observed positive direct effect of number of effective tillers per plant on grain yield per plant. The highest negative direct effect was found with spikelet fertility percentage (-0.273) which was followed by days to 50% flowering (-0.100). Whereas in submerged condition, highest positive direct effect was found with spikelet per panicle (0.565) while highest negative direct effect was found with days to 50% flowering (-0.158) followed by plant height (-0.032) and panicle length (-0.025). Similar results were also reported by Kar et al. (2016); Gour et al. (2017). \r\nDays to 50% flowering exerts direct negative effect on yield in both controlled (-0.100) and submerged (-0.158) condition. Similar result was also reported by Kulsum et al. (2019) who revealed negative direct effect of days to 50% flowering on yield per plant. In submerged condition, negative indirect effect of days to 50% flowering on grain yield per plant via total tillers (-0.004) and panicle length (-0.003) were found.\r\nDays to maturity showed direct positive effect on grain yield per plant in both controlled (0.092) and submerged (0.121) condition. The highest positive direct effect has been reported for days to maturity by Qamar et al. (2005) in rice. Days to maturity showed negative indirect effect via days to 50% flowering (-0.138), plant height (-0.002) and panicle length (0.006) under submergence condition.\r\nPlant height was found to have positive direct effect (0.086) with grain yield per plant in controlled condition. This was similar with the findings of Kulsum et al. (2019) which revealed positive direct effect of plant height towards grain yield per plant. In submerged condition, plant height was found to have negative direct effect (-0.032) with grain yield per plant which was in agreement with the findings of Nikhil et al. (2014). Also, negative indirect effect was found via number of effective tillers per plant (-0.082) followed by spikelet per panicle (-0.051), total tillers (-0.014) and plant length (-0.005). Similar results were reported by Bhutta et al. (2019); Saleh et al. (2020). However, it showed positive indirect effect via test weight (0.096) followed by days to 50 % flowering (0.009), days to maturity (0.007) and spikelet fertility percentage (0.006).\r\nIn both controlled (0.213) and submerged (0.062) condition, total tillers per plant showed positive direct association with grain yield per plant. Similar findings were also reported by Fiyaz et al. (2011); Nikhil et al. (2014). Total tillers per plant showed highest positive indirect effect with effective tillers per plant (0.218) followed by plant height (0.007) and days to 50% flowering (0.009) while it showed highest negative indirect effect with test weight (-0.051) followed by spikelet per panicle (-0.051) under submerged condition.\r\nIn both the controlled (0.399) and submerged (0.412) condition, effective tillers per plant exerts positive direct effect on grain yield per plant. Highest positive direct effect has been reported for number of effective tillers by Rokonuzzaman et al. (2008) in rice. Under submergence, effective tillers per plant showed highest positive indirect effect via total tillers per plant (0.033), number of filled grains per panicle (0.009) and plant height (0.006) while highest negative indirect effect via spikelet per panicle (-0.045), days to 50% flowering (-0.002) and test weight (-0.015). Similar results were also reported by Kulsum et al. (2019).\r\nPanicle length showed negative direct effect with grain yield per plant in both controlled (-0.043) and submerged (-0.025) conditions. This result was in agreement with the findings of Kulsum et al. (2019). It has shown highest positive indirect effect via spikelet per panicle (0.248), number of filled grains per panicle (0.029) and days to maturity (0.029) while highest negative indirect effect was shown via effective tillers per plant (-0.062), test weight (-0.022) and days to 50% flowering (-0.017) under submergence.\r\nSpikelet per panicle was found to have direct positive effect with grain yield per plant in both controlled (0.268) and submerged (0.565) conditions. This result was in agreement with the findings of Fiyaz et al. (2011); Nikhil et al. (2014). Highest positive indirect effect was recorded via number of filled grains per panicle (0.124), days to maturity (0.012), spikelet fertility percentage (0.005) and plant height (0.003) while negative indirect effect was found highest via test weight (-0.040) followed by number of effective tillers per plant (-0.032) and panicle length (-0.011) under submergence.\r\nIn both controlled (0.467) and submerged condition (0.146), number of filled grains per plant exerts direct positive association with grain yield per plant. Similar findings were observed by Azarpour (2013); Moosavi et al. (2015). In submerged condition, highest positive indirect effect was shown with spikelet per panicle (0.481) followed by number of effective tillers per plant (0.025), days to maturity (0.024) and spikelet fertility percentage (0.021) while highest negative indirect effect was shown with number of filled grains per plant (-0.027) and followed by panicle length (-0.010).\r\nSpikelet fertility percentage (-0273) exerts direct negative effect with grain yield per plant in controlled condition while in submerged condition, it (0.034) was found to have shown positive direct association with grain yield per plant. The positive direct effect has been reported for spikelet fertility percentage by Agbo and Obi (2005); Kulsum et al. (2019) in rice. It was also found to have shown highest positive indirect effect via number of filled grains per plant (0.092), spikelet per panicle (0.084) and effective tillers per plant (0.070) while negative indirect effect was found via days to 50% flowering (-0.032) followed by plant height (-0.006) and total tillers per plant (-0.004).\r\nIn both controlled (0.424) and submerged (0.368) condition, test weight was found to have direct positive effect with grain yield per plant. The result was in agreement with the findings of Harish et al. (2019); Saleh et al. (2020). Under submergence, indirect positive effect was recorded via panicle length (0.002), spikelet fertility percentage (0.004) and days to maturity (0.001) while indirect negative effect was found to be highest in spikelet per panicle (-0.062) followed by effective tillers per plant (-0.017), total tillers per plant (-0.009), plant height (-0.008) and days to 50% flowering (-0.008).\r\nThe residual effects were 0.048 and 0.269 in controlled and submerged condition respectively which indicated that there might be some other characters that contribute 4.8% and 26.9% to the yield in both controlled and submerged condition respectively.\r\nTherefore, selection of these characters which showed direct effect on grain yield per plant would be rewarding for the improvement of grain yield and those which showed indirect effect through other characters will be useful in grain yield improvement by indirect selection through such characters. \r\n','N. Reetisana, E.V.D. Sastry, Th Renuka, T. Julia and Artibashisha H. Pyngrope (2022). Correlation and Path Coefficient Analysis in Screening of Submergence Tolerance in Rice (Oryza sativa L.) Genotypes of Manipur. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 14(2): 1130-1135.'),(5019,'125','Gaps in Decision Making Skill and its Relationship with Personal characteristics of the Students of SKNAU, Jobner','Nitesh Kumar Tanwar*, Radhika Tanwar, K. C. Sharma and Lokesh Kumar','195 Gaps in Decision Making Skill and its Relationship with Personal characteristics of the Students of SKNAU, Jobner Nitesh Kumar Tanwar.pdf','',1,'Soft skills refer to personality traits, social graces, facility with language, personal habits, friendliness, and optimism that mark people to varying degrees. Decision making is the important skill for business and life. The study was conducted to find out gaps in Soft Skills among the students. This paper assessed the decision making skill among the final year college students in four constituent colleges of Sri Karan Narendra Agriculture University, Jobner. A total of 88 (59 boys and 29 girls) final year students from SKNAU, Jobner were selected by using 50 per cent sampling, randomly. The data were collected through personal interview schedule. The study revealed that majority of the students have medium gap in decision making skill (65.91 %) followed by high gap (20.45 %) and low gap (13.67 %). Native place, annual income, medium of instruction, library exposure and internet exposure found non-significant, whereas father’s education, family occupation, academic performance, mother’s education, involvement in extracurricular activities and computer exposure found significant with gaps in decision making skills.','Soft skills, decision making, employability, annual income','Decision making is the important skill for business and life. In the light of the findings presented in the above, the following conclusions are drawn, there is a satisfactory result in the decision making skill among the students, because of slightly more than fourth fifth of the students have gaps in decision making skills from medium to high. This study also found that parent’s education is an essential factor in student’s decision making. Students who have good family background have good decision making skill. Promote self-concept is important in higher education settings so that students can make better career decisions. Some interventions, assessments, and coaching related to developing decision making skills can be provided by the institutions themselves or through external sources. This can help individuals to develop better career selection skills, especially for undergraduate students. This study adds to the existing theoretical framework on the impact of the personal characteristics on student’s decision making. Decision making skill and future goal can be further developed in the students via professional career counseling that can enhance the employability among the students.','INTRODUCTION\r\nHuman Resource Development is the process of enabling people to make things happen. It deals both with the process of competency development in people and creation of conditions to help people to apply these competencies for their own benefit and for that of others. The most important element in any organization is its human capital. Any organization is made of people and its success depends mainly on the capabilities of the human resources and on the kind of collaboration they are able to establish. Human capital is then a fundamental component for any enterprise and the quality of it deeply affects the results that the company can achieve.\r\nCommunication skills, time management, decision making, optimism, problem solving, self-awareness is some of the vital competencies that employees of a progressive organization need to possess, all these constitute to represent ‘soft skill’. The need for developing the soft skills of agricultural graduates is therefore the need of the hour. Agriculture is changing, and with it, a revised set of skills is needed to address new challenges in agriculture. As attitudes, expectations and employment in agriculture have changed, there is evidence that the skills and competencies of graduates do not meet the needs of today’s agricultural sector. The new professional should, for example, be better able to work across different disciplines and in partnership with different stakeholders, understand the value chain and potential for profit and entrepreneurship at different stages. With increased attention to holistic and multi-disciplinary approaches to addressing challenges, agricultural professionals are expected to be able to integrate knowledge and practices from outside of their discipline and work within the multi-functionality of agriculture. As we move away from “business as usual” we must integrate this new way of thinking into educational institutions and agricultural curricula. The modern agricultural sector demands that technical vocational colleges or institutes produce highly skilled personnel who can manage a variety of farms and production units, run processing enterprises, service market chains, manage and repair farm and processing machinery etc. (Choudhary, 2011). Higher soft skills play a very vital role in this dynamic Agriculture growth. If one has got advanced soft skills then definitely, he will be able to establish themselves as distinct amongst other job seekers. Soft skills comprise of many skills, among these skills, decision making plays a very important role.\r\nDecision making: Decision making skills are to solve problems by selecting one course of action from several possible alternatives. Decision making skills are also a key component of Soft Skills. In everyday life we often have to make decisions fast, without enough time to systematically go through the above action and thinking steps. In such situations the most effective decision making strategy is to keep an eye on your goals and then let your intuition suggest you the right choice.\r\nMETHODOLOGY\r\nThe investigation was conducted in constituent colleges of Sri Karan Narendra Agriculture University, Jobner namely SKNCOA, Jobner, COA, Lalsot, COA, Bharatpur and COA, Fatehpur. From each constituent college, students studying in B.Sc. (Ag.) Final were selected. The total number of undergraduate students was 171 (114 boys and 57 girls). Out of these 171 students, 50 per cent students i.e. 59 boys and 29 girls were selected randomly. Then the total sample was comprised of 88 students. The data were collected through structured interview schedule. The data was statistically analyzed using suitable statistical tools such as mean, standard deviation, mean percent score, percentage and correlation coefficient. To find out gaps in decision making skills, a structured schedule developed. The gap in decision making skills was calculated with the following formula:\r\n The correlation coefficient (‘r’ value) was used to measure the relationship between dependent and independent variables. The correlation coefficient between variables was calculated by using the following formula:\r\n \r\nWhere,\r\nr = Correlation Coefficient\r\nX = Independent variable\r\nY = Dependent variable\r\nn = Total number of respondents\r\nHypothesis:\r\nH0: There is no relationship between personal characteristics of the students of SKNAU, Jobner and gaps in their decision making skill.\r\nH1: There is relationship between personal characteristics of the students of SKNAU, Jobner and gaps in their decision making skill.\r\nRESULTS AND DISCUSSION\r\nA. Distribution of students according to their gaps in decision making skill\r\nA look at Table 1 indicates that 17.39, 13.33, 6.67 and 8.33 per cent students were with low gaps in decision making skills in SKNCOA, Jobner, COA, Lalsot, COA, Bharatpur and COA, Fatehpur, respectively followed by 65.22, 66.67, 66.67 and 66.67 per cent of the students were with medium gaps and 17.39, 20.00, 26.66 and 25.00 per cent of the students were with high gaps in decision making skill.\r\nThe overall gaps in decision making skills indicate that majority of the students (65.91%) of constituent colleges of SKNAU, Jobner were with medium gaps in decision making skills, followed by high gaps in decision making skills (20.45%) and low gaps in decision making skills (13.67%).\r\nB. Relationship between personal characteristics and gaps in the decision making skill\r\nA look at Table 2 indicates that native place, annual income, medium of instruction, library exposure and internet exposure found non-significant with gaps in decision making skills. In case of these variables null hypothesis (H0) was accepted and alternate hypothesis (H1) was rejected.\r\nWhereas, father’s education, family occupation and academic performance found significant at 0.05 level of significance and mother’s education, involvement in extracurricular activities and computer exposure found significant at 0.01 level of significance with the gaps in decision making skills. In case of these variables null hypothesis (H0) was rejected and alternate hypothesis (H1) was accepted.\r\nC. Statement wise distribution of respondents according to their decision making skill according to the mean percent score\r\nThe data in Table 3 revealed that “I make up my own mind about things regardless of what others think” (84.32 MPS) was the most important statement and “I avoid taking advice over decisions” (56.62 MPS) was the least important statement given by the students of SKNCOA, Jobner, while in case of COA Lalsot “I like to consult with others” (81.66 MPS) was the most important statement and “I plan well ahead” (44.00 MPS) was the least important statement given by the students, whereas in case of COA Bharatpur “I take the safe option if there is one” (84.00 MPS) was the most important statement and “I avoid taking advice over decisions” (50.00 MPS) was the least important statement given by the students and in COA Fatehpur, the students had given most importance to “I like to consult with others” (83.33 MPS) statement and least importance to “I avoid taking advice over decisions” (47.91 MPS).\r\nThe findings are in line with the findings of Amanollahi et al. (2016); David et al. (2017); Mishra et al. (2020). \r\nThe overall decision making skill shows that “In my decision making I prefer on practicalities more important than principles” (80.11 MPS) was the most important statement and “I avoid taking advice over decisions” (53.98 MPS) was the least important statement given by the students of SKNAU, Jobner. The reason behind least important statement might be due to that students were like to live in groups and share their problems with each other and take advises for solving of problems so they do not like to avoid their advice when they make decisions.\r\nThe findings are in line with the findings of Robinson and Bryan (2008); Koka, and Raman (2015); Thakur (2015).\r\n','Nitesh Kumar Tanwar, Radhika Tanwar, K. C. Sharma and Lokesh Kumar (2022). Gaps in Decision Making Skill and its Relationship with Personal characteristics of the Students of SKNAU, Jobner. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 14(2): 1136-1139.'),(5020,'125','Role of Biotic and Abiotic Factors Influencing Cocoon Productivity in Jammu Region','Ravi Kant*, K. Bali, R. K. Gupta, R. Sharma, S. Sharma and P. Singh','196 Role of Biotic and Abiotic Factors Influencing Cocoon Productivity in Jammu Region Ravi Kant.pdf','',1,'The UT of J&K has two distinct sericultural zones viz., temperate and sub-tropical based on agro-climatic conditions. It is a bivoltine sericulture region having only two crops per year but its silk has outstanding quality on international level. Success of sericulture industry mainly relays on quality mulberry leaves, climatic factors, quality of silkworm seed, rearing technologies and other factors. Data on abiotic factors namely temperature, humidity, rainfall and cocoon yield and biotic factor namely disease incidence percentage (Grasserie & Flacherie) of the 225 respondents under study was recorded during spring and autumn rearing season ( 2019 & 2020) in three districts viz., Ramban, Doda and Kishtwar of Jammu division. The main challenge of the present study was to identify various biotic and abiotic factors hindering the potential bivoltine cocoon yield. Analysis of data using Pearson’s correlation coefficient revealed that in autumn season, climatic factors namely temperature and humidity were highly correlated to grasserie incidence and impacting overall cocoon yield. Incidence of flacherie was uneven but significant. Factor rainfall was significant and positively correlated to grasserie incidence in autumn season. Temperature was recorded positive and significant while the impact of rainfall and humidity was non-significant with cocoon yield during spring.','Climatic factors, Disease incidence, Cocoon yield','The correlation coefficient values concluded that the high viral and bacterial infection was recorded in autumn season due to high temperature and humidity. Climatic factors are one of the important factors that influences disease incidence in silkworm. So adoption of recommended practices for effective crop protection during harsh conditions of autumn season can help the respondents to overcome the crop loss.','INTRODUCTION\r\nSericulture is the science that deals with the production of silk by rearing of silkworm. Silk is called the queen of textiles due to its glittering luster, softness, elegance, durability, and tensile properties and originating in the spittle of an insect is a natural fibrous substance and is obtained from pupal nests or cocoons spun by larvae known as silkworm. The silk is preferred over all other types of fibers due to its remarkable properties like water absorbency, heat resistance, dyeing efficiency, and luster. Factors mainly influence the physiology of insects are temperature and humidity. Despite wide fluctuations in their surroundings, insects show a remarkable range of adaptations to fluctuating environmental conditions and maintain their internal temperature and water content within tolerable limits (Rahmathulla, 2012).\r\nThe mulberry silkworm (Bombyx mori L.) is very delicate, highly sensitive to environmental fluctuations, and unable to survive extreme natural fluctuation in temperature and humidity because of their long years of domestication .Thus, the adaptability to environmental conditions in the silkworm is quite different from those of wild silkworm and other insects. Temperature, humidity, air circulation, gases and light show a significant interaction in their effect on the physiology of silkworm depending upon the combination of factors and developmental stages affecting growth, development, productivity, and quality of silk. It is a well-established fact that under tropical condition, unlike polyvoltines, bivoltines are more vulnerable to various stresses like hot climatic conditions of tropics, poor leaf quality, and improper management of silkworm crop during summer that is not conducive for bivoltine rearing for technologically and economically poor farmers of India (Kumar et al., 2001; Lakshmi and Chandrashekaraiah, 2007 and Begum et al., 2008).\r\nThe biological as well as cocoon-related characters are influenced by ambient temperature, rearing seasons, quality mulberry leaf, and genetic constitution of silkworm strains. Different seasons affect the performance of Bombyx mori L. The seasonal differences in the environmental components considerably affect the genotypic expression in the form of phenotypic output such as cocoon weight, shell weight, color, elasticity and shell ratio. The variations in the environmental conditions emphasize the need of management of the temperature and relative humidity for sustainable cocoon production (Rahmathulla, 2012).\r\nThe fluctuation of mid-day temperature and Relative Humidity revealed that the temperature under all the grainage system was similar to natural conditions. Whereas, Relative Humidity under pucca grainage house and green shade net structure was similar to natural conditions, in which Relative Humidity equal or higher than the temperature with lowest fluctuation rate and finally it was suggested that the shade net grainage house followed by pucca grainage house are the best in terms of maintenance of optimum temperature and relative humidity under grainage house suitable for tasar silkworm cocoons (Rathore et al. 2018).\r\nThree feedings per day was statistically at par with the four feedings in terms of various parameters including larval survival percentage, larval weight, cocoon yield by wt. and by no., single cocoon weight, single shell weight and shell ratio percentage. However total filament lengths, non-breakable filament length and filament size varied significantly (Raghuvanshi et al. 2019).\r\nThe powerful absorption of food given to silkworms relies upon at the floor of the region on which they\'re placed. Because the feeding vicinity decreases the worms become thicker and smaller and as a end result the worms start to develop larger and smaller without being able to devour frivolously and a lower in feeding region and quantity of feed given to worm at some stage in feeding duration additionally ends in lower in overall range of cocoons (Rakhmanova, 2020). \r\nMATERIALS AND METHODS\r\nThe sample of the study was initially based on multistage sampling technique. Data from random sample of 225 respondents was computed for analysis from threedistricts namely Ramban, Doda and Kishtwar in Jammu regionduring spring and autumn rearing seasons (2019 and2020). Double hybrid silkworm seed FC1×FC2 procured from Central Silk Board (CSB), Bangalore were distributed to the respondents after 2nd moult (i.e. chawki reared worms) from respective district sericulture development department. Wet and dry thermometer was used for recording temperature and humidity in the respondents rearing houses. Diseased larvae depicting different microbial symptoms were collected and Pearson correlation analysis was used to measure the degree of association between variables namely temperature, humidity, silkworm diseases (Grasserie & Flacherie) incidence and cocoon yield. \r\nRESULTS AND DISCUSSION\r\nThe pooled correlation coefficient (r) value between temperature, humidity, rainfall, incidence of silkworm diseases and cocoon yield in district Kishtwar during spring (March-April) and autumn (August-September) rearing season (2019 & 2020) is presented in Table 1. It was observed that with respect to the incidence of grasserie during autumn season among the various abiotic factors, temperature was highly significant and positively correlated factor (r=0.57) followed by humidity (r = 0.43) which was significant and positively correlated and rainfall (r = -0.04) was non-significant and negatively correlated. In case of incidence of flacherrie, temperature was positively correlated but non-significant (r = 0.04 & 0.06) during spring rearing with a pooled r =0.05 and during autumn season (r = 0.15 & 0.13) with pooled r-value of 0.14. Cocoon yield was positively correlated to temperature (r=0.11 & 0.09) with a pooled r value of 0.10 and non-significant during spring season but significant and negatively correlated (r = -0.34 & -0.32) with a pooled r value of -0.33 during autumn rearing season. Humidity was positively correlated and non-significant to the incidence of grasserie (r = 0.11 & 0.17) with a pooled r-value of 0.14 during spring season and was found positive and significantly correlated (r = 0.52 & 0.34) during autumn season (pooled r = 0.43). Incidence of flacherie was negatively correlated and non significant during both seasons with pooled r-value in spring season (-0.06) and autumn season (-0.03). Cocoon yield was significant but negatively correlated to humidity during autumn season (r = -0.32) and non significant in spring rearing (r = -0.11). Rainfall was non-significant and positively correlated to incidence of grasserie during spring season (r=0.01) and non-significant and negatively correlated during autumn season (r = -0.04). Flacherie was also recorded non-significant and positively correlated to rainfall during spring season (r = 0.04) and significant and negatively correlated during autumn season (r = -0.23). Rainfall was found negatively correlated but non-significant to cocoon yield during spring season having pooled r value of -0.05 and positively correlated but non-significant in autumn season with pooled r = 0.09. \r\nThe pooled correlation coefficient (r) value between temperature, humidity, rainfall, incidence of silkworm disease namelygrasserie & flacherie and cocoon yield in district Ramban during spring and autumn rearing season (2019 & 2020) is shown in Table 2. It was observed that with respect to the incidence of grasserie during autumn season, abiotic factor humidity was correlated factor (pooled r = 0.61) and highly significant followed by temperature (r = 0.49) which was significant and positively correlated and rainfall (r = -0.17) was non-significant and negatively correlated. In case of incidence of flacherrie, temperature was positively correlated but non-significant (r = 0.02 & 0.04) during spring rearing with a pooled value of r = 0.03 and during autumn season (r = -0.15 & -0.03) with pooled r value of -0.09 was recorded. Cocoon yield was positively correlated to temperature (r = 0.06 & 0.22) with a pooled r value 0.14 and non-significant during spring season but significant and negatively correlated (r = -0.40 & -0.36) with a pooled r value of -0.38 during autumn rearing season. Humidity was positively correlated and non-significant to the incidence of grasserie (r = 0.12 & 0.08) with a pooled r-value of 0.10 during spring season and was positive and significantly correlated (r = 0.75 & 0.47) during autumn season (pooled r = 0.61). Incidence of flacherie was negatively correlated and non significant with pooled r-value in spring season (-0.05) and significant in autumn season (-0.25). Cocoon yield was negatively and significantly correlated to humidity during autumn season (r = -0.22) and non-significant in spring rearing (r = 0.11). Rainfall was found to be non-significant and positively correlated to incidence of grasserie during spring season (r = 0.03) and non significant and negatively correlated during autumn season (r = -0.17). Flacherie was also found be non-significant and positively correlated to rainfall during spring season (r = 0.02) and non-significant and negatively correlated during autumn season (r = -0.06). Rainfall was found negatively correlated but non-significant to cocoon yield during spring season (pooled r = -0.07) and negatively correlated but non-significant in autumn season (pooled r = -0.10). \r\nThe pooled correlation coefficient (r) value between temperature, humidity, rainfall, incidence of grasserie & flacherie and cocoon yield in district Ramban during spring and autumn rearing season (2019 & 2020) is presented in Table 3. It was observed that with respect to the incidence of grasserie during autumn season among the various abiotic factors temperature was highly significant and correlated factor (pooled r=0.76) followed by humidity (r = 0.59) which was significant and positively correlated and rainfall (r = -0.28) was significant and positively correlated. In case of incidence of flacherrie, temperature was positively correlated & non-significant (r = 0.12 & 0.04) during spring rearing with a pooled value of r = 0.08 and during autumn season temperature was found positively correlated but non-significant (r = 0.04 & 0.02) with pooled r value of 0.03 was recorded. Cocoon yield was positively correlated and non-significant with temperature (r = 0.10 & 0.22) with a pooled r value 0.16 during spring season but highly significant and negatively correlated (r = -0.51 & -0.55) with a pooled r value of -0.53 during autumn rearing season. Humidity was recorded positively correlated and significant to the incidence of grasserie (r = 0.19 & 0.15) with a pooled r-value of 0.17 during spring season and was positive and highly significant and correlated (r = 0.69 & 0.49) during autumn season (pooled r = 0.59). Incidence of flacherie was positively correlated and non significant with pooled r-value in spring season (0.09) and significant in autumn season (0.12). Cocoon yield was negative but significantly correlated to humidity during autumn season (r = -0.46) and negatively correlated and significant in spring rearing (r = -0.13). Rainfall was recorded non significant and negatively correlated to incidence of grasserie during spring season (r = -0.06) and significant and positively correlated during autumn season (r = -0.27). Flacherie was also observed non-significant and negatively correlated to rainfall during spring season (r = -0.04) and non-significant and positively correlated during autumn season (r = 0.07). Rainfall was positively correlated but non-significant to cocoon yield during spring season (pooled r = 0.08) and negatively correlated but non-significant in autumn season (pooled r = -0.03).\r\nEnvironment impact on growth and development of Bombyx mori played a vital role in the improvement of silk industry. Silkworm rearing was solely based on environment conditions in general and seasonal variations were found to have immense influence on it especially bivoltine breed (Giridhar et al., 1990) .Spring season is considered favourable for silkworm rearing when temperature is moderate and humidity is optimum. In the autumn season temperature and humidity remain high especially prevailing high humidity with intermediate rain resulting in fluctuation in temperature is the major factor responsible for crop loss by influencing growth of grasserie virus (Deb et al., 2015). The studies on prevalence of different silkworm diseases in temperate and subtropical zone of Jammu division of J&K UT in commercial seasons were analysed. Occurrence of various diseases in silkworm has direct relationship with various rearing conditions prevailing in rearing house especially irregularities in maintenance of micro climatic conditions and hygiene which led to outbreak of grasserie and flacherie diseases. In the present study, grasserie disease prevalence was significantly high in all the three districts particularly in autumn season. Maximum incidence of grasserie (23.56%) and flacherie (4.68%) was recorded during autumn season in District Doda. Present study confirms the high prevalence of nuclear polyhedrosis in Jammu division as reported by Illahi and Nataraju (2007); Singh et al. (2009); Balavenkatasubbaiah et al. (2014). The incidences of grasserie are related to high temperature and higher humidity due to overcrowding and unhygienic conditions in the rearing bed. Fluctuation in temperature during the rearing period disturbs the physiological conditions of silkworm and it makes them susceptible to flacherie disease. Poor quality leaf drastically influences the growth of larvae which makes them prone to bacterial flacherie. In the present study, non-significant data on incidence of flacherie disease was recorded. Average flacherie disease was recorded maximum in district Doda (2.61 %). Season wise average incidence of flacherie disease was more in autumn (1.72 %) as compared to spring. Majority of the rearers did not practice silkworm bed disinfection although disinfectant was provided and silkworms were reared in overcrowded conditions. The observations fall in line with Selvakumar et al. (2002). ','Ravi Kant, K. Bali, R. K. Gupta, R. Sharma, S Sharma and P. Singh (2022). Role of Biotic and Abiotic Factors Influencing Cocoon Productivity in Jammu Region. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 14(2): 1140-1145.'),(5021,'125','Genetic Variability Studies in large Seeded Genotypes of Peanut (Arachis hypogaea L.)','K. Deepthi*, K. John, D. Bharathi and P. Sudhakar','197 Genetic Variability Studies in large Seeded Genotypes of Peanut _Arachis hypogaea L._ K. DEEPTHI.pdf','',1,'Genetic studies determining the valuable confectionary characters like oil, protein, sucrose and fatty acid contents, in addition to yield components like kernel weight, shelling percentage are limited. The quality requirement of large-seeded groundnut is more precise and distinctly different from peanut as an oilseed crop. Because of the above fact, there is a necessity to evaluate the available large- seeded groundnut genotypes to know the extent of genetic variability and heritability for important confectionery characteristics. Therefore, Genetic variability analysis was carried out for physiological, yield attributes and quality traits in 26 peanut genotypes. The study indicated the existence of a considerable amount of variability for every character. High heritability estimates were recorded for sucrose content, days to maturity, sound mature kernel per cent, days to 50 % flowering, stearic acid content, dry haulms yield plant-1, oil content, oleic to linoleic acid ratio, linoleic acid content, shelling per cent, kernel yield plant-1, plant height, protein content, pod yield plant-1, oleic acid content, specific leaf area at 45 DAS, palmitic acid content, harvest index and a number of mature pods plant-1 stipulating that the effect of environment is least in the countenance of these characters. Sucrose content, dry haulms yield plant-1, the number of mature pods plant-1, plant height, kernel yield plant-1, pod yield plant-1, stearic acid content, shelling per cent and harvest index exhibited high genetic advance as per cent of mean. High heritability coupled with high genetic advance as per cent of mean (GAM) was recorded for sucrose content, stearic acid content, dry haulms yield plant-1, shelling per cent, kernel yield plant-1, plant height, pod yield plant-1, harvest index and the number of mature pods plant-1 indicating a preponderance of additive gene action. Therefore, selection for the above characters would be more rewarding to bring improvement in peanut for physiological, yield attributes and quality traits.','Peanut, Broad sense heritability, Genetic advance, GAM, Variability','The present study revealed a higher magnitude of variability for most of the yield and quality traits, which is also accompanied by high heritability and genetic advance. High heritability coupled with high genetic advance as per cent of mean was observed for sucrose content, stearic acid content, dry haulms yield plant-1, shelling per cent, kernel yield plant-1, plant height, pod yield plant-1, harvest index and the number of mature pods plant-1. This indicates that these characters were under additive genetic control and selection for genetic improvement will be worthwhile and may rapidly contribute to yield and quality improvement.','INTRODUCTION\r\nCultivated peanut (Arachis hypogaea L.) is an annual legume crop. It is a self-pollinated crop with a chromosome number of 2n = 4x = 40. It is a native of South America and grown all over the tropical and sub-tropical regions of the world. Peanut belongs to the sub-family Papilionaceae of the family Leguminosae and it is commonly called a poor man’s nut. Peanut is widely accepted as the most critical source of nutrition for both humans and animals due to its high oil (45-50%) and protein (25%) content. Apart from oil and protein, peanut contains carbohydrates (8-14%), minerals, vitamins A, B and some members of the B2 group, mainly thiamin and niacin and are abundant in mono-unsaturated fatty acids.\r\nAs peanut is an major food crop and recently the confectionary types has presumed great importance as snack food in national and international markets, there is a necessity to enhance the quality traits of peanut. Hence selection for quality attributes in peanut is a requisite in breeding programmes. \r\nHowever, genetic studies determining these valuable confectionary characters like oil, protein, sucrose and fatty acid contents, in addition to yield components like kernel weight, sound mature kernels and shelling percentage are limited. The breeding procedures involving confectionary genotypes are to be improved. The quality requirement of large-seeded groundnut is more precise and distinctly different from peanut as an oilseed crop.\r\nBecause of the above fact, there is a necessity to evaluate the available large- seeded groundnut genotypes to know the extent of genetic variability and heritability for important confectionery characteristics. The magnitude of genetic variability can determine the pace and quantum of genetic improvement through selection or hybridization followed by selection. Hence, it is essential to study the genetic variability parameters like range, coefficient of variability, heritability and genetic advance over a mean (Parameshwarappa et al. 2005, Korannavar and Biradar 2019). The present investigation was taken up among twenty-six genotypes of peanut to assess the amount of genetic variability for physiological, yield attributes and quality traits in peanut.\r\nMATERIAL AND METHODS\r\nThe present investigation was carried out among 26 peanut genotypes during Kharif, 2020, at a dry land farm of Sri Venkateswara Agricultural College, Tirupati using Randomized Block Design with three replications.\r\nObservations were noted on five randomly selected plants in each genotype for SPAD chlorophyll meter reading at 45 DAS, specific leaf area at 45 DAS, relative water content, plant height, number of primary branches plant-1, number of mature pods plant-1, hundred pod weight, shelling per cent, hundred kernel weight, kernel yield plant-1, sound mature kernel per cent, dry haulms yield plant-1, harvest index, oil content, protein content, sucrose content, palmitic acid content, stearic acid content, oleic acid content, linoleic acid content, oleic to linoleic acid ratio and pod yield plant-1 whereas for days to 50 % flowering and days to maturity observations were noted on a plot basis.\r\nThe variation among 26 genotypes for different characters was tested for significance by using the analysis of variance technique as given by Panse and Sukhatme (1961). The genotypic (GCV) and phenotypic (PCV) coefficient of variation was calculated by the formulae given by Burton (1952). Heritability in broad sense [h2b] was calculated by the formula given by Lush (1940) and genetic advance as given by Johnson et al. (1955).\r\nRESULTS AND DISCUSSION\r\nThe analysis of variance carried out for 24 physiological, yield attributes and quality traits revealed highly significant (1%) differences among the genotypes for the characters, viz., days to 50 % flowering, days to maturity, SPAD chlorophyll meter reading at 45 DAS, specific leaf area at 45 DAS, relative water content, plant height, number of primary branches plant-1, number of mature pods plant-1, hundred pod weight, shelling per cent, hundred kernel weight, kernel yield plant-1, sound mature kernel per cent, dry haulms yield plant-1, harvest index, oil content, protein content, sucrose content, palmitic acid content, stearic acid content, oleic acid content, linoleic acid content, oleic to linoleic acid ratio and pod yield plant-1 (Table 1). These results indicated the presence of a considerable amount of genetic variation for all the 24 traits in the experimental material.\r\nA. Variability studies\r\nThe estimates of genetic parameters viz., phenotypic and genotypic coefficient of variation, heritability in broad sense, genetic advance and genetic advance as per cent of mean computed for twenty-four characters in twenty-six genotypes are presented in Table 2.\r\nThe Phenotypic coefficient of variation was of high magnitude than the genotypic coefficient of variation for all the characters indicating the influence of the environment in the expression of these traits. These results are following the findings of Narasimhulu et al. (2012), John et al. (2013), Kamdi et al. (2017), Mahesh et al. (2018) and Nagaveni and Hasan Khan (2019).\r\n The characters, sucrose content, dry haulms yield plant-1, the number of mature pods plant-1 and plant height showed high variability indicating an adequate amount of variation among the genotypes. Therefore, simple selection would be productive for further improvement of these characters. \r\nHigher GCV and PCV estimates for plant height, number of mature pods plant-1 and dry haulms yield plant-1 were following the results obtained by Kadam et al. (2016) and Mahesh et al. (2018). High estimates of GCV for sucrose content were similar to the reports of Rathod and Toprope (2018).\r\nThe characters, specific leaf area at 45 DAS, sound mature kernel per cent, days to 50 % flowering, days to maturity, oleic acid content, protein content, linoleic acid content, palmitic acid content, SPAD chlorophyll meter reading at 45 DAS, relative water content and oil content exhibited lower estimates of both PCV and GCV.\r\nLower estimates of GCV and PCV for days to 50 % flowering were by the results of Vasanthi et al. (2015), Kadam et al. (2016), Chavadhari et al. (2017), GonyaNayak et al. (2018) and Mahesh et al. (2018). The low variability estimates recorded for SPAD chlorophyll meter reading at 45 DAS and days to maturity were confirmed with the findings of Rathod and Toprope (2018) and Gonya Nayak et al. (2018). Jayalakshmi et al. (2003) showed similar results for specific leaf area at 45 DAS. Lower estimates of GCV and PCV for protein content and oil content were confirmed with the findings of Vasanthi et al. (2015), Omprakash and Nadaf (2017) and Mahesh et al. (2018), whereas low variability for relative water content and sound mature kernel per cent were similar with the findings of Nagaveni and Hasan Khan (2019). \r\nB. Heritability\r\nHigh heritability estimates were recorded for sucrose content, days to maturity, sound mature kernel per cent, days to 50% flowering, stearic acid content, dry haulms yield plant-1, oil content, oleic to linoleic acid ratio, linoleic acid content, shelling per cent, kernel yield plant-1, plant height, protein content, pod yield plant-1, oleic acid content, specific leaf area at 45 DAS, palmitic acid content, harvest index and the number of mature pods plant-1. The characters viz., hundred pod weight and hundred kernel weight exhibited moderate heritability. The characters, the number of primary branches plant-1, relative water content and SPAD chlorophyll meter reading at 45 DAS exhibited lower heritability estimates.\r\nC. Genetic advance\r\nHigh genetic advance was exhibited for the character’s specific leaf area at 45 DAS and hundred pod weight, whereas dry haulms yield plant-1, plant height, shelling per cent, days to maturity, sound mature kernel per cent and harvest index recorded moderate genetic advance. The characters viz., hundred kernel weight, pod yield plant-1, number of mature pods plant-1, sucrose content, kernel yield plant-1, oleic acid content, linoleic acid content, days to 50% flowering, protein content, oil content, relative water content, SPAD chlorophyll \r\n\r\n\r\nmeter reading at 45 DAS, palmitic acid content, stearic acid content, number of primary branches plant-1 and oleic to linoleic acid ratio recorded low genetic advance.\r\nGenetic advance as per cent of mean. Higher genetic advance as per cent of mean was recorded for sucrose content, dry haulms yield plant-1, the number of mature pods plant-1, plant height, kernel yield plant-1, pod yield plant-1, stearic acid content, shelling per cent and harvest index. The characters exhibited a moderate genetic advance as per cent of mean, oleic to linoleic acid ratio, sound mature kernel per cent, hundred pod weight, days to 50% flowering, hundred kernel weight, days to maturity and specific leaf area at 45 DAS. The characters viz., the number of primary branches plant-1, linoleic acid content, oleic acid content, protein content, palmitic acid content, oil content, SPAD chlorophyll meter reading at 45 DAS and relative water content exhibited low genetic advance as per cent of mean.\r\nHigh heritability coupled with high genetic advance as per cent of mean was recorded for sucrose content, stearic acid content, dry haulms yield plant-1, shelling per cent, kernel yield plant-1, plant height, pod yield plant-1, harvest index and number of mature pods plant-1 indicating preponderance of additive gene action and hence phenotypic selection would be more effective for improvement of these characters.\r\nHigh heritability coupled with high genetic advance as per cent of mean for number of mature pods plant-1 was also reported by Chavadhari et al. (2017) and Mahesh et al. (2018). Similar results for plant height were reported by Rao et al. (2014) and Yusuf et al. (2017). Narasimhulu et al. (2012) reported similar results for shelling per cent. High heritability coupled with high genetic advance as per cent of mean for kernel yield plant-1 and pod yield plant-1 were similar to the findings of Rao et al. (2014), Gupta et al. (2015), Rajarathinam et al. (2017) and Bugati et al. (2020). Mahesh et al. (2018) and Nagaveni and Hasan Khan (2019) reported similar results for dry haulms yield plant-1. High heritability coupled with high genetic advance as per cent of mean for harvest index are by the reports of Vasanthi et al. (2015) and Chavadhari et al. (2017). Yusuf et al. (2017) reported similar results for stearic acid content. High heritability coupled with high genetic advance as per cent of mean for sucrose content conforms to the reports of Rathod and Toprope (2018).\r\nHigh heritability coupled with moderate genetic advance as per cent of mean was exhibited by characters viz., days to maturity, sound mature kernel per cent, days to 50 % flowering, oleic to linoleic acid ratio and specific leaf area at 45 DAS. This finding obviates simple selection and necessitates recombination breeding with a postponement of selection at later generations.\r\nHigh heritability coupled with moderate genetic advance as per cent of mean for sound mature kernel per cent were similar to the reports of Kumar et al. (2019). Similar results were reported for days to 50 % flowering by John and Reddy (2014). \r\nCharacters viz., oil content, linoleic acid content, protein content, oleic acid content and palmitic acid content recorded high heritability coupled with low genetic advance as per cent of mean, which indicated the presence of non-additive gene action. High heritability is exhibited due to the favourable influence of environment rather than genotype and hence selection for such traits may not be rewarding. High heritability coupled with low genetic advance as per cent of mean for protein and oil content were also reported by Kumar et al. (2019).\r\nModerate heritability and moderate genetic advance as per cent of mean were recorded for the characters, hundred pod weight and hundred kernel weight, indicating that both additive and non-additive gene actions have a role in inheritance and phenotypic selection would be adequate to some extent. Similar kinds of results for moderate heritability coupled with moderate genetic advance as per cent of mean for hundred pod weight and hundred kernel weight was reported by Patil et al. (2014) and Shinde et al. (2019).\r\nLow heritability and low genetic advance as per cent of mean were recorded for characters viz., then umber of primary branches plant-1, relative water content and SPAD chlorophyll meter reading at 45 DAS, which indicates that these characters were highly influenced by environmental effects and selection would be ineffective. Low heritability and low genetic advance as per cent of mean for SPAD chlorophyll meter reading at 45 DAS and relative water content were similar to the findings of Srivalli and Nadaf (2016). \r\n','K. Deepthi*, K. John, D. Bharathi and P. Sudhakar (2022). Genetic Variability Studies in large Seeded Genotypes of Peanut (Arachis hypogaea L.). Biological Forum – An International Journal, 14(2): 1046-1051.'),(5022,'125','A Survey on Awareness and Adoption of Soil Health Card (SHC) Recommendations by the Farmers in YSR District of Andhra Pradesh','A. Veeraiah, C. Prathyusha*, V. Shilpakala, S. Ramalakshmi Devi and B. Padmodaya','198 A Survey on Awareness and Adoption of Soil Health Card _SHC_ Recommendations by the Farmers in YSR District of Andhra Pradesh C. Prathyusha.pdf','',1,'Soil health is the basic necessity for the ensurement of long term agricultural production. Soil health must be monitored on a regular basis to ensure that farmers provide the necessary nutrients while also taking benefit of those already present in the soil. But the quality of soil has been deteriorating in recent times due to indiscriminate use of fertilisers and imbalanced usage of chemicals. Considering this situation, the Government of India (GOI) initiated a flagship programme of soil health card scheme which aims at promoting soil test based and balanced use of fertilisers to enable farmers to realise higher yields at low cost. In the first cycle i.e., 2015 – 16 to 2016 – 17 distributed 74,55,204 cards to farmers while in second cycle i.e., 2017 – 18 to 2018 – 19 distributed 69,27,732 cards for farmers. A survey was conducted to study the awareness and adoption of soil health card recommendations by the farmers of YSR district of Andhra Pradesh during the year 2019-20. Through purposive sampling method, 64 respondents were selected from twelve divisions of the district. The data were collected through interview schedule prepared for the purpose. Frequencies, percentages, Mean and correlation were used in statistical analysis. The results showed that that majority of farmers (59.52%) agree with the benefits of soil health card recommendations, while 18.89 % of farmers remain undecided and 21.59 % disagree with the benefits of soil health card recommendations. Likewise, majority of farmers (60.14 %) are adopting the soil health card recommendations. However, the correlation Coefficients between independent variables, and dependent variables i.e., awareness and adoption shown on – significant relationship.','Soil health, Awareness, Adoption, Correlation','The study revealed that the respondents were dominated by high age group, illiterates with high farming experience. The majority farmers were with small holdings and with majority were below one Lakh income. Majority were approached MAO for their information, families were nuclear in nature with below 5 family members, majority no social participation and extension contact with some times only.\r\nFurther, the majority respondents agree and adopt the benefits of soil health card recommendations. The relationship between personal, Socio – economic characteristics and their awareness and adoption of soil health card recommendations also shown non – significant relationship. Therefore, it can be concluded that the perception and adoption of soil health recommendations are on gradual rise in YSR district of Andhra Pradesh.\r\n','INTRODUCTION\r\nIntensive Agriculture has resulted in impressive growth in food grain production powered by improved varieties, application of fertilizers and assured irrigation. However, indiscriminate application of inorganic fertilisers can lead to negative environmental consequences which include runoff, erosion & contamination of water supplies & disruptions to aquatic life and affect the soil health & fertility. Also imbalanced application of fertilizers leads to deficiency of several nutrients which in turn affect the growth and productivity of crops. Precise and comprehensive measurements of soil health will provide the basis for soil health management (Liu et al., 2018). That\'s why interpreting soil health management is vital to the sustainability and stability of the climate adaptive farming systems (Xue et al., 2019).\r\nHealthy soil is the basis for sustainability of income for the farmers. Fertilizers are the key inputs for increasing agricultural production but their continuous and imbalanced application deteriorates the soil health (Bangre et al., 2021). And applying judicious doses of fertilisers & cropping pattern is the foremost step for sustainable farming. For this reason, Government of India launched Soil health card scheme on 19 February, 2015. Under the scheme, the Government plans to issue soil health cards to farmers which provide every farmer the status of available nutrients in his land and suggest him accordingly the dosage of fertilisers & essential soil amendments for good soil health and crop wise recommendations of nutrients & fertilisers to improve productivity through judicious use of inputs. This Scheme aims at promoting soil test based and balanced use of fertilisers to enable farmers to realise higher yields at low cost and also to make them aware about the appropriate amount of nutrients for the concerned crop depending on the soil quality.\r\nA SHC is intended to denote soil nutrient status to each farmer and recommend him on the right usage of fertilisers and micronutrients and also on the required soil amendments to be used over a long run to maintain soil health (Subhash et al., 2019). Soil health card in basic as a printed report that a farmer is given for all his land holdings. It contains the status of soil considering 12 parameters N, P, K, S, Fe, Zn, Mn, Cu, B and pH, EC,OC. Considering these results, the soil health card will specify fertilizer recommendations and necessary changes required for the farm. The government plans to issue the cards to 14 crore farmers. In the first cycle i.e., 2015 – 16 to 2016 – 17 74, 55, 204 cards were distributed, while in second cycle i.e., 2017–18 to 2018 – 19 dispatched 69,27,732 cards to farmers. The main aim of introducing the soil health card scheme was to identify the type of soil and then inform farmers required measures for further improvement.\r\nKnowing the motive and importance of the soil health card the present study was undertaken to study the farmers awareness and adoption of soil health card recommendations and as certain the constraints associated with adoption of SHC’s by farmers.\r\nMATERIALS AND METHODS\r\nA Survey was conducted in YSR district of Andhra Pradesh. The district consists of 12 Agricultural divisions and 51 mandals. Out of which 3 mandals were selected randomly and from each mandal four villages were randomly selected and 5 farmers from each village were selected purposively. A total of 64 sample of farmers for the study were selected. To determine the awareness and adoption of soil health cards, an interview schedule was prepared. For awareness measurement, 11 statements were posed to the farmers to which three responses were recorded as Agree, Undecided and Disagree. With regard to adoption, farmers are posed with 6 statements and responses were recorded as adopted and non-adopted. The frequencies and percentages were worked out and mean values were given based on frequency and percentage. Statistics such as percentage, frequency, Mean, and correlation coefficients were used in the presentation. \r\nRESULTS AND DISCUSSION\r\nA. Characteristics of respondents\r\nThe data (Table I) indicated that majority of the respondents are (51.56%) from high aged group followed by 37.5 percent and 10.94 percent in middle aged group and young aged group respectively. This might be due to moving of young age people for other occupations. In cities due to higher income compared to Agriculture.\r\nIn case of education, majority (31.25%) of the respondents were illiterates, where as 26.56 percent respondents were educated up to primary school level, 25 percent up to high school level 6.25 percent up to Intermediate level and 10.94 percent were educated up to degree and above level. This might be due to lack of Job opportunities for high school and below high school level of education and they stayed in villages and depend on Agriculture for income.\r\nThe data (Table 1) revealed that majority (56.24%) belongs to above 20 years of farming experience, whereas 34.38 and 9.38 percent respondents possessed 10 – 20 years and below 10 years of farming experience respectively. This might be due to continuation of old age people in farming and moving of young people to cities for other jobs. The data about size of holding indicated, majority (43.75%) belongs to small farmers, 29.69 percent possessed medium holdings, 14.06 percent possessed marginal holdings and 12.50 % possessed large holdings.\r\nThe data of Table 1 indicated that majority 85.94 percent getting below one Lakh income per annum and where as 10.94 percent respondents gained between 1 – 2 lakh annual income/year. This might be due to maximum of the respondents belong to small and marginal farmers and also due to low level of income in Agriculture compared to other enterprises. The survey revealed that majority 39.06 percent respondents contacted mandal Agricultural officer for information on Agriculture, where as 28.13 percent Neighbours, 21.87 percent Agricultural extension officers and 10.94 percent contacted scientists respectively. This might be due to availability of mandal Agricultural officers very nearer to them in terms of distance. The table – 1 majority (56.25%) belongs to nuclear family and 43.75 % had joint family. This might be due to preference of people towards nuclear families compared to joint families at present in the existing society.\r\nThe Table 1 further indicated that majority (84.37%) respondents contain up to 5 members only in their family, where as 15.63 % of respondents contains family size of above 5 members. This might be due to preference for nuclear families and also due to self-imposed restriction of having one or two children per family. The above table – 1also reveals that majority (71.88%) of respondents had no membership in organisation; where as 28.12% of respondents had membership in one organisation. Further, data of Table 1 reveals that majority (39.06%) had extension contact sometimes only, 34.38 percent of respondents had frequent extension contact and 26.56 percent had rare extension contact. This might be due to that the programmes related to Agriculture not regularly attended by the farmers and also not approaching the extension agencies for solving day to day problems of Agriculture.\r\nIt could be observed from Table 2 that majority of the respondents (71.87%) agree that the results given in SHC are reliable, whereas 20.3 % respondents remain undecided and 7.83% respondents disagree with respect to reliability of SHC results. Regarding usefulness of SHC results in increasing the yields, 57.82% of the farmers agree with the statement but 28.12 % are undecided and 14.06% of farmers disagree with the statement. Similarly, 60.95 % of the farmers agree that the Soil Health cards are given in time, whereas 15.63% remain undecided and 23.43% of the farmers claim the delay in the issue of SHCs. Likewise, majority of the respondents (71.87%) agree that the results given in SHC are useful to reduce cost of cultivation, 25 % are undecided but 23.44% of farmers do not find any decrease in cost of cultivation with the use of SHC results. With regard to selection of suitable crop based of SHC, larger part of the respondents (42.18%) disagrees with the statement while 35.94% agree and \r\n21.87% remain undecided. Also, most of the farmers (71.88%) agree that the information provided in SHC helps to sustain soil fertility, but 15.62% are undecided and 12.50% are disagreeing with the statement. Similarly, 75% and 67.19 % of farmers agree that the information provided in SHC was simple to understand and adopt respectively whereas, 17.19% and 14.06 % are undecided about the statements but 12.5% and 15.62% opined that that the information provided in SHC was not simple to understand and adopt respectively. Regarding the possibility of micro nutrient management with SHC, 56.25%, 14.06% and 29.69% of respondents agree, undecided and disagree respectively with the statement. With regard to diagnosis and reclamation of problematic soils with SHC, greater part of the respondents i.e., 54.69% and 51.57% agree with the same respectively but 21.88 % and 15.62 % remain undecided and 23.43% and 32.81% disagree with the statements respectively.\r\nAs evident from the mean values in the Table 3, that majority of farmers (59.52%) agree with the benefits of soil health card recommendations, while 18.89 % of farmers remain undecided and 21.59 % disagree with the benefits of soil health card recommendations. From the above findings, it can be concluded that majority of the farmers are aware and agree with the benefits of soil health card recommendations. The reason that could be attributed for this kind of results might be that most of \r\nthe farmers were much aware of about soil health cards scheme, location of soil testing laboratories and information available from soil health card report. The findings are in accordance with the findings of Archana and Balasubramanian (2019) who conducted the study on awareness, knowledge and attitude of farmers towards soil health card scheme in Tamil Nādu. Similar findings were obtained by Kadam et al. (2012).\r\nIt could be seen from Table 4, that 64 % of farmers are adopting the recommended organic manures as per SHC results but 36% are not adopting the same. With regard to application of recommended nitrogen, phosphorous and potassium, 64%, 67.18% and 56.25% of farmers respectively are adopting but 36%, 32.82% and 43.75 % are not applying the recommended nitrogen, phosphorous and potassium respectively. Similarly, 57.82% & 51.56% are applying recommended micronutrients and gypsum/lime respectively as per the SHC results whereas, 42.18% and 48.44% are not adopting the same respectively.\r\nIt can be concluded from the mean values in the Table 5, that lion share of farmers (60.14 %) is adopting the recommendations in soil health card which can be \r\nattributed to the fact that majority of the farmers (59.52%) agree with the benefits of soil health card recommendations. regard to soil health card recommendations. Whereas, 39.86 % of farmers are not adopting the recommendations in soil health card. The findings are in agreement with the results of Chowdary et al. (2018).\r\nFrom Table 6, it was evident that the computed ‘r’ value between Age, Education, Experience in farming, Size of holding, Sources of information, social participation and Extension contact shows non – significant positive correlation with awareness of farmers about soil health card recommendations, whereas Annual income, Family size and family type were found non – significant negative correlation with \r\nawareness of soil health card recommendations among farmers.\r\nFurther from Table 6, it was clear that the computed ‘r’ values of education, Age, Education, Experience in farming, Size of holding, Sources of information, family type, social participation and Extension contact depicts non – significant positive correlation observed with adoption of soil health card recommendations, whereas Annual income and Family size were found non – significant negative correlation with adoption of soil health cards recommendations by the farmers. Similar findings were reported by Charel et al. (2018).\r\n \r\n','A. Veeraiah, C. Prathyusha, V. Shilpakala, S. Ramalakshmi Devi and B. Padmodaya (2022). A Survey on Awareness and Adoption of Soil Health Card (SHC) Recommendations by the Farmers in YSR District of Andhra Pradesh. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 14(2): 1152-1156.'),(5023,'125','Development of Index to Assess the Utilization Behaviour Pattern of Paddy Growers on Green Technologies','M. Deepika*, J. Pushpa, R. Velusamy, J.S. Amarnath and M. Radha','199 Development of Index to Assess the Utilization Behaviour Pattern of Paddy Growers on Green Technologies M Deepika.pdf','',1,'Agricultural inputs serve as the heart of agricultural production. But, prolonged and excessive use of agricultural inputs, polluted and degraded the environment. Though agricultural inputs pollute, without them, production will start to decline. To save the environment, green technology fertilizers which were regarded as environment-friendly pesticides are being used. Rice being the major staple food crop, the utilization pattern of green technology fertilizers in a rice-based ecosystem needs to be understood. To serve this purpose, an utilization behavior index needs to be constructed. With the help of extension experts and previous studies, hundred statements were developed. Later, based on Edwards\'s criteria, it was revised and ninety-five statements were sent to the judges opinion. Based on the results from the judges opinion, relevancy percentage and weightage were calculated based on which final scale with fourteen statements was developed. The correlation coefficient was found to be 0.869 and the final scale satisfies the content validity which ensures the scale can be administered to assess the utilization behavior of green technology among the beneficiaries in the rice-based eco-system.','Utilization behaviour, Green technology fertilizers, Rice-based ecosystem, Paddy growers, Scale construction, Utilization behaviour index','Any technology intends to make our lives better. The evolution of green technologies became one end solution to environmental concerns and is creating ways of sustainable development. The current study can contribute to policymakers such as governments and organizations to plan and develop strategies emphasizing the utilization of green technologies in rice-based ecosystems. The final scale satisfies the content validity which deduces that the scale can be administered to assess the utilization behavior of green technology among the beneficiaries in the rice-based eco-system. This scale will be much useful for the researcher and extension worker. Assessment of utilization behaviour of farmers on green technology is very much needed to know the status of farmers on green technology and to develop strategies for sustainable eco friendly agriculture.','INTRODUCTION\r\nNow-a-days, the agriculture sector has emerged as an important enterprise in the world. Earlier, it was the process of producing food but, now it is an act that requires greater investment in every aspect of production practices. Since the Green revolution, agricultural inputs have been regarded as the important input of production and it is price intensive. But the prolonged and over usage of agricultural inputs has resulted in deteriorating human and environmental health. Now, the concern is to continue the usage of agricultural inputs or to shift to eco-friendly inputs; to conserve the environment and human health. Green technologies represents green pesticides which were environmentally safe and does not cause any harmful side effects to human and the environment. Meanwhile, it ensures food security and safeguards the environment by employing environment-safe practices.\r\nAdnan et al. (2017) reported that in Malaysia, usage of green fertilizer technology in paddy production has increased the yield. Meanwhile, Suji and Sathish et al. (2020) mentioned that most of the farmers had medium level of utilization behaviour towards eco-friendly agricultural practices. Suji and Sathish (2020) commented that education and farming experience of the farmers had resulted in positive and significant relationship with the adoption level of the farmers regarding eco-friendly technologies. Naher et al. (2021) concluded that bio-organic fertilizer (green fertilizer technology) in paddy production reduce synthetic nitrogen and triple super phosphate content in soil; thereby improving the soil health. Since, green technology is an emerging technology, there arises a need to develop the certain package of practices according to its objectives. The development and transfer of eco-friendly technologies require government extension agencies. Hence, this study was proposed to develop an utilization behaviour index to assess the utilization pattern of green technology among the paddy farmers.\r\nMETHODOLOGY\r\nTo measure the utilization behaviour of green technologies among the beneficiaries in a rice-based ecosystem, a scale was developed as suggested by Likert (1932); Edwards (1957). The methodology used in the development of the utilization behaviour index was given as follows.\r\nCollection and editing of items. Various practices followed in green technology were stated and discussed with the experts of Agronomy, Entomology, and Pathology. A set of 100 hundred practices were stated and revised according to fourteen criteria given by Thrustone & Chave (1938); Likert (1932); Edwards (1957). After revision, 95 statements were retained and sent to the judges opinion. \r\nRelevancy test. The revised 95 statements/ practices were sent to judges opinion to 120 experts in the field of Agronomy, Entomology, Pathology, and senior faculty members of State Agricultural Universities, Programme co-ordinator, and Subject Matter Specialists of KVK, ICAR Scientists, and Scientists related to this domain. They were asked to indicate their for each statement as ‘Most Relevant’, ‘Relevant’, and ‘Not relevant’ with the scores of 3, 2, and 1 respectively. They were also requested to include statements if it was left. Hence, a total of 60 members responded to the index. Based on the responses received, for each statement, the relevancy weightage, relevancy percentage, and mean relevancy score was calculated by using the following formula; \r\n Relevancy weightage\r\nIndicates the relevancy of the statement to the impact index. \r\nRW= (MRR*3+ RR*2+ NRR*1)/(MOS (3*55=165))\r\nWhere, \r\nRW = Relevancy Weightage\r\nMRR = Most Relevant Response\r\nRR = Relevant Response\r\nNRR = Not Relevant Response\r\nMOS = Maximum Obtainable Score\r\n Relevancy percentage\r\nIndicates the relevant percentage of the statement to the impact index.\r\nRP= OS/(MOS (3*55=165))× 100\r\nWhere, \r\nRP = Relevancy Percentage\r\nOS = Obtained Score\r\nMOS = Maximum Obtainable Score\r\n Mean relevancy score\r\nIndicates the mean relevancy score of each statement to the impact index.\r\nMRS= (MRR*3+ RR*2+ NRR*1)/(No.of Judges (55))\r\nWhere, \r\nMRS = Mean Relevancy Score\r\nMRR = Most Relevant Response\r\nRR = Relevant Response\r\nNRR = Not Relevant Response\r\nBased on the relevancy percentage (>66%), relevancy weightage (0.66) and mean relevancy score (>2); the final statements were selected. \r\nCalculation of ‘t’ value (Item analysis). The relevant 95 statements were subjected to item analysis to assess the statements based on their ability to differentiate the respondent with high impact and low impact (extent to differentiate) towards green technology beneficiaries. For this purpose, the selected 95 statements were sent to 60 farmers in non-sample area. The farmers were requested to indicate their response on a five point continuum ranging from ‘strongly agree’, ‘agree’, ‘undecided’, ‘disagree’ and ‘strongly disagree’ with the scores of 5, 4, 3, 2 and 1 respectively for positive statements and vice versa for negative statements. Based on the responses obtained from the farmers, they were arranged in descending order according to their total scores. As suggested by Edwards (1957), the high group (top 25 per cent of farmers) and the low group (lowest 25 per cent of farmers) were identified to evaluate the individual statements. Finally, out of 60 farmers, the 20 farmers with highest and lowest scores were used as criterion groups to evaluate the individual statements. \r\nAs suggested by Edwards (1957), the ‘t’ value is calculated by using the following formula, \r\nt= ((X_H ) ̅-(X_L ) ̅)/√((∑▒〖〖(X_H- X ̅_H)〗^2+〖(X_L- X ̅_L)〗^2 〗)/(n (n-1)))\r\nWhere, \r\n〖(X_H- X ̅_H)〗^2= 〖X_H〗^2-〖(X_X)〗^2\r\n〖(X_L- X ̅_L)〗^2= 〖X_L〗^2-〖(X_L)〗^2\r\nXH = The mean score on given statement of the high group\r\nXL = The mean score on given statement of the low group\r\nXH2 = Sum of square of the individual score on a given statement for high group\r\nXL2 = Sum of square of the individual score on a given statement for low group\r\nXH = Summation of scores on given statement for high group\r\nXL = Summation of scores on given statement for low group\r\nn = Number of respondents in each group\r\n∑ = Summation \r\nSelection of statements for final scale. According to the calculated ‘t’ value, for the 90 statements, the statements with highest ‘t’ value were selection for inclusion in scale. Thus, a total of 87 practices or statement were selected to develop the index; in order to assess the utilization behaviour of green technology among the paddy farmers. The relevancy percentage, relevancy weightage and mean relevancy score along with the t-value of the selected statements were presented in Table 1.\r\nThus, a total of 87 statements with highest ‘t’ values were selected for the construction of final scale which differentiate between highest and lowest groups. The statements with low ‘t’ value were deleted. The index procedure developed by Asokhan and Ganapathy Ramu (2021) was followed in the present study.\r\nReliability \r\nTest-retest method. The final 87 statements which represents the utilization behaviour of green technology beneficiaries in rice based ecosystem were administered on a three point continuum scale to a 30 farmers in non-sample area. These 87 statement were identified based on many reviews consulted with experts and scientists. After a time period of 15 days, the scale was again administered to the same respondents and thus there were two set of scores obtained. For both sets of scores, the correlation co-efficient was calculated and the ‘r’ value was 0.869 which represents significant at 1 per cent level of probability. Thus, it indicates the impact index was highly suitable to assess the utilization behaviour of green technology among the beneficiaries in the rice based ecosystem. The index was stable and dependable in its measurement. \r\nValidity\r\nContent validity. Content validity refers to the sampling adequacy of the content, the substance, the matter and the topics of a measuring instrument. This method was adopted to determine the content validity of the developed index. As the content of the index examines the utilization behaviour of green technology beneficiaries in rice-based ecosystem, it was assumed that the present scale satisfies the content validity. As the scale value differs for each of the statement with a high discriminating value, this scale is said to be a valid measure of the impact. \r\n','M. Deepika, J. Pushpa, R. Velusamy, J.S. Amarnath and M. Radha (2022). Development of Index to Assess the Utilization Behaviour Pattern of Paddy Growers on Green Technologies. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 14(2): 1157-1161.'),(5024,'125','Gaps in Problem Solving Skills of the Students of Sri Karan Narendra Agriculture University, Jobner','Nitesh Kumar Tanwar*, Radhika Tanwar, K.C. Sharma and Naresh Kumar Kumawat','200 Gaps in Problem Solving Skills of the Students of Sri Karan Narendra Agriculture University, Jobner Nitesh Kumar Tanwar.pdf','',1,'Soft skills involve personality traits, personal habits, social graces, friendliness, facility with language and optimism that mark human beings to various degrees than others. Problem solving is the important skill for business and life. The study was conducted to find out gaps in Soft Skills among the students. This paper assessed the problem solving skill among the final year college students in four constituent colleges of Sri Karan Narendra Agriculture University, Jobner. A total of 88 (59 boys and 29 girls) final year students from SKNAU, Jobner were selected by using 50 per cent sampling, randomly. The data were accumulated through well-developed personal interview schedule. The study divulged that majority of the students have medium gap in problem solving skill (70.46%), followed by low gap (18.18%) and high gap (11.36 %) Native place, Father\'s education, Family occupation, annual income, medium of instruction and involvement in extracurricular activities found non significant, whereas Mother\'s education, academic performance. library exposure, computer exposure and intemet exposure found significant with gaps in problem solving skills.','Soft Skill, Problem solving. Employability','Problem solving is the important skill for business and life. In the light of the findings presented in the above, the following conclusions are drawn, there is a satisfactory result in the Problem solving skills among the students, because of more than one fourth of the students have gaps in problem solving skills from medium to low. Students who have good academic performance, exposure to various activities are good at problem solving skills. It can also be concluded that higher the problem solving ability, higher their academic achievement and exposure. It ought to be reasonable concurring to their behaviour so that their creativity may be prospered. The classroom teacher can create a logical approach to solve the problems that the students are expected to face in their social lifestyles. The implications of this study are that it can provide all students with a behavioral environment for their creativity to flourish. In addition, families and schools can play an important role in fostering a positive attitude towards fostering student creativity. Teachers can use pedagogical strategies to promote problem-solving skills.','INTRODUCTION\r\nHuman Resource Development is the process of helping people to achieve their goals by providing the resources they need. It contracts with the both method of competency improvement in individuals and creation of conditions to assist individuals to apply these competencies for their required advantage and for that of others. The most important element in any organization is its human capital. Any organization is manufactured from individuals and its fulfillment depends basically on the capabilities of the human assets and on the kind of collaboration they are capable to establish. Human capital is at that point, an essential component for any organisation and the quality of it profoundly influences the comes about that the company can accomplish.\r\nCommunication skills, time management, decision making, optimism, problem solving, self-awareness is a number of the essential competencies that personnel of an organisation need to own, all these constitute to represent \'soft skills\'. The need for developing the Soft Skills of agrarian graduates is consequently the need of the hour. Agriculture is reforming, and with it, a revised set of capabilities is wanted to deal with new demanding situations in agriculture. As states of mind, desires and employment in agriculture have changed, there is evidence that the skills and competencies of undergraduates do not meet the needs of today\'s agricultural segment. The new professional ought to, for example, be higher capable to work throughout distinct disciplines and in partnership with different stake holders, recognize the value chain and capability for benefit andbusiness at distinctive stages. With increased attention to holistic and multi-disciplinary strategies to tending to challenges, agricultural professionals are expected to be able to coordinated knowledge and practices from outdoor of their discipline and work within the multi-functionalities area of agriculture. As we circulate away from \"business as usual\' we ought to combine this new manter of thinking into academic establishments and agricultural curricula. The modem agricultural zone needs that technical vocational faculties or institutes produce exceptionally better skilled personnel who can manipulate a variety of farms and production units, service market chains, run processing enterprises, manage and restore farm and processing equipment and so on. (Choudhary, 2011). Higher soft skills play an awfully imperative part in this energetic Agriculture growth. If one has were given soft skills then definitely, he may be capable of set up themselves as distinct amongst other job seekers. Soft skills incorporate of many abilities and skills, among these skills, problem solving plays a very essential role.\r\nProblem solving: Problem solving refers to the ability of the students to unravel farmers or client\'s problems/concems correctly and proficiently on the proper time. Problem solving is theframework or pattern within which imaginative thinking and reasoning take place. Problem solving is preparing coordinated at accomplishing an objective when no solution method is obvious to the problem solver. (Mayer and Wittrock, 2006)\r\nMETHODOLOGY\r\nThe investigation was conducted in constituent colleges of Sri Karan Narendra Agriculture University, Jobner namely SKNCOA, Jobner, COA, Lalsot, COA, Bharatpur and COA, Fatehpur. From each constituent college, students studying in B.Sc. (Ag.) Final were selected. The total number of undergraduate students was 171 (114 boys and 57 girls). Out of these 171 students, 50 per cent students i.e. 59 boys and 29 girls were selected randomly. Then the total sample was comprised of 88 students. The data were collected through structured interview schedule. The data was statistically analyzed using suitable statistical tools such as mean, standard deviation, mean percent score, percentage and correlation coefficient. To find out gaps in problem solving skills, a structured schedule developed. The gap in problem solving skills was calculated with the following formula\r\n \r\nThe correlation coefficient (r value) was used to measure the relationship between dependent and independent variables. The correlation coefficient between variables was calculatedby using the following formula-\r\n \r\nWhere,\r\nr-Correlation Coefficient\r\nX-Independent variable\r\nY-Dependent variable\r\nn-Total number of respondents\r\nHypothesis:\r\nHo: There is no relationship between personal characteristics of the students of SKNAU, Jobner and gaps in their problem solving skills.\r\nH1: There is relationship between personal characteristics of the students of SKNAU, Jobner and gaps in their problem solving skills.\r\nRESULTS AND DISCUSSION\r\nA. Distribution of students according to their gaps in problem solving skills\r\nA look at Table-1 indicates that 21.74. 6.67. 20.00 and 16.67 per cent students were with low gaps in problem solving skills in SKNCOA, Jobner COA. Lalsot, COA. Bharatpur and COA. Fatehpur, respectively followed by 65.22. 86.66, 66.67 and 75.00 per cent of the students were with medium gaps and 13.04, 06.67, 13.33 and 08.33 per cent of the students were with high gaps in problemsolving skills.\r\nThe overall gaps in problem solving skills indicate that majority of the students (70.46 per cent) of constituent colleges of SKNAU, Jobner were with medium gaps in problem solving skills. followed by low gaps in problem solving skills (18.18 per cent) and high gaps in problem solvingskills (11.36 per cent).\r\nB. Relationship between personal characteristics and gaps in the problem solving skills\r\nA look at table-2 indicates that native place, father\'s education, family occupation, annual income, medium of instruction and involvement in extracurricular activities found non-significant with gaps in problem skills. In case of these variables null hypothesis (Ho) was accepted and alternate hypothesis (Hi) was rejected.\r\nWhereas mother\'s education, library exposure and internet exposure found significant at 0.05 level of significance and academic performance and computer exposure found significant at 0.01 level of significance with the gaps in problem solving skills. In case of these variables null hypothesis (Ho) was rejected and alternate hypothesis (H) was accepted.\r\nThe findings are in line with the findings of Amanollahi et al. (2016); David et al. (2017); Kanmani and Nagarathinam (2017); Mishra et al. (2020).\r\nC. Statement wise distribution of respondents according to their problem solving skills according to the mean percent score\r\nThe data in Table 3 expressed that \"I like to get advice from my friends and family when deciding how to solve my personal problems\" (83.15 MPS) was the most important statement and \"I resolve problems with time\" (59.23 MPS) was the least important statement given by the students of SKNCOA, Jobner, while in case of COA. Lalsot \"I value other people\'s help and advice when making important decisions\" (91.66 MPS) was the most important statement and \"In general, I do not like to ask other people to help me to solve problems(51.66 MPS) was the least important statement given by the students whereas in case of COA Bharatpur \"I like to get advice from my friends and family when deciding how to solve my personal problems\" (88.33 MPS) was the most important statement and \"I usually prefer to ask otherpeople for help rather than to try to solve problems on my own\" (51.66 MPS) was the least important statement given by the students and in COA, Fatehpur, the students had given most importance to \"I like to get advice from my friends and family when deciding how to solve my personal problems\" (89.58 MPS) statement and least importance to \"I usually prefer to ask other people for help rather than to try to solve problems on my own\" (52.08 MPS).\r\nThe overall problem solving skills of students shows that \"I like to get advice from my friends and family when deciding how to solve my personal problems\" (86.07 MPS)\" was the most important statement and \"I resolve problems with time\" (59.65 MPS)\" was the least important statement given by the students of SKNAU, Jobner. The reason behind most important statement might be that students like to live in teams or groups and team members very close each other so they share personal problems each other and take advises for solve their personal problems and the reason behind least important statement might be due to that in final year students had busy schedule and they prepare for RAWE progamme, orientation classes, competition examination preparation etc., so they have no sufficient time to solve their problems on time.\r\nThe findings are in line with the findings of Mitchel et al. (2010); Gupta et al. (2015).\r\n','Nitesh Kumar Tanwar, Radhika Tanwar, K.C. Sharma and Naresh Kumar Kumawat (2022). Gaps in Problem Solving Skills of the Students of Sri Karan Narendra Agriculture University, Jobner. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 14(2): 1162-1165.'),(5025,'125','Studies on effect of Biofertilizers and Biostimulant on Post Harvest Quality Parameters and Shelf Life of Guava (Psidium guajava L.) cv. Allahabad Safeda under Meadow Planting System','M. Sandhyarani*, A. Bhagwan, A. Kiran Kumar and M. Sreedhar','201 Studies on effect of Biofertilizers and Biostimulant on Post Harvest Quality Parameters and Shelf Life of Guava _Psidium guajava L._ cv. Allahabad Safeda under Meadow Planting System M. Sandhyarani.pdf','',1,'The experiment was conducted at the Fruit research station, Sangareddy, Sri Konda Laxman Telangana State Horticultural University, Hyderabad during the period of June, 2019 to January, 2020 (Mrig bahar crop). Extensive application of inorganic chemical fertilizers produce huge quantity of chemical residues in field as well as in the crop produce. The organic manures can provide as substitute to mineral fertilizers for improving soil structure and microbial biomass. In view of the above facts, the present investigation was planned to ascertain the effect of biofertilizers and biostimulant on post-harvest quality parameters and shelf life of guava (Psidium guajava L.) cv. Allahabad Safeda under meadow planting system. The study revealed that maximum total soluble solids (12.26°Brix), reducing sugars (4.58%), Non reducing sugars (3.54%), total sugars (8.12%), ascorbic acid (226.15 mg/100 g) and shelf life (7.64 days) with minimum acidity (0.36%)are shown by the application of B3S3- Azotobacter @ 50 g tree-1 + PSB @ 50 g tree-1 + Seaweed extract @ 75 g tree-1.','Guava, Azotobacter, PSB, seaweed extract, quality parameters, shelf life','From this experiment, it can be concluded that T11(B3S3)) - Azotobacter @ 50 g tree-1 + PSB@ 50 g tree-1 + Sea weed extract @ 75 g tree-1 per tree increased quality parameters like total soluble solids, reducing sugars, non reducing sugars, total sugars and ascorbic acid), reduced the acidity and increased shelf life under meadow planting system of guava Cv. Allahabad Safeda.','INTRODUCTION\r\nGuava (Psidium guajava L.) isgrown in tropical and subtropical regions of India, originated in Tropical America and belongs to the family Myrtaceae. In India, guava is cultivated in 2,64,000 hectares of area with 40.53 lakh tonnes of production and 15.3 MT ha-1 of productivity. Uttar Pradesh has highest area and production Andhra Pradesh leads in productivity (Anonymous, 2017-18). Telangana has 2,560 ha area in guava with production of 38,740 MT (Anonymous, 2017-18). Winter guava is mostly preferred in the state which gives flowering in June-July and comes to harvest during Nov. - Dec.\r\nPresently, meadow planting system of guava is getting popularity. Fruit plant withdraw huge quantity of vital nutrient reserves in the soil. Extensive application of inorganic chemical fertilizers produce huge quantity of chemical residues in field as well as in the crop produce, generate numerous environmental and health hazards in addition to socio-economic problems. Thus, organic manures can provide as substitute to mineral fertilizers for improving soil structure and microbial biomass. For sustaining highest productivity of the land and building up of soil fertility, the use of vermicompost, biofertilizers and biostimulant to crops has been suggested. Lodaya and Masu (2019) studied the effect of bio-fertilizer, manures and chemical fertilizers on fruit quality and shelf life of guava (Psidium guajava L.) cv. Allahabad Safeda. They reported that soil application of 30% RDF through chemical fertilizers + 30% RDN through Poultry manure + 20 ml Bio NPK Consortium has been recorded maximum T.S.S. (11.93 °Brix), reducing sugars (6.35%), non-reducing sugars (1.72%), total sugars (8.07%) and ascorbic acid (177.67 mg 100g-1 of pulp). Sayan Sau et al. (2016) conducted research on influential role of biozyme on yield and quality of guava cv. Allahabad Safeda. The study revealed that application of 250:375:250 g N, P2O5 and K2O per plant + Biozyme @ 10 ppm recorded maximum T.S.S. (11.26 °Brix), total sugars (9.31%) and vitamin C content (195.75 mg 100g-1). Thus, considering the potentialities of biofertilizers and biostimulant, the present study was conducted to study the response of guava with biofertilizers and biostimulant.\r\nMATERIALS AND METHOD\r\nThe study was conducted at Fruit Research Station (FRS), Sangareddy, SKLTSHU, Telangana during the period of June, 2019 to January, 2020 (Mrig bahar crop). The soil type was sandy clay loam having pH 8.26, EC 0.20 dSm-1, low in available N (120.61 kg ha-1), low in available P (20.14 kg ha-1) and medium in available potash (162.56 kg ha-1). The experiment was laid out in Factorial Randomized Block Design (FRBD) in three replications with 12 treatment combinations comprised of three levels of biofertilizers viz., B1- Azotobacter @ 50 gtree-1, B2- PSB@ 50 gtree-1, B3- Azotobacter @ 50 gtree-1 + PSB@ 50 gtree-1 and four levels of biostimulant viz., S1- Seaweed extract @ 25 gtree-1, S2- Seaweed extract @ 50 gtree-1, S3- Seaweed extract @ 75 gtree-1 and S0- Control (without seaweed extract). The treatment combinations include B1S1: Azotobacter @ 50 gtree-1 + Seaweed extract @ 25 gtree-1, B1S2: Azotobacter@ 50 gtree-1 + Seaweed extract @ 50 gtree-1, B1S3: Azotobacter @ 50 gtree-1 + Seaweed extract @ 75 gtree-1, B1S0: Azotobacter@ 50 gtree-1 + Control (without seaweed extract),B2S1:PSB@ 50 gtree-1 + Seaweed extract@ 25gtree-1, B2S2: PSB @ 50 gtree-1 + Seaweed extract@ 50gtree-1, B2S3: PSB@ 50 gtree-1 + Seaweed extract@ 75gtree-1, B2S0: PSB@ 50 gtree-1 + Control (without seaweed extract), B3S1: Azotobacter @ 50 gtree-1 + PSB@50 gtree-1 + Seaweed extract @ 25 gtree-1, B3S2: Azotobacter @ 50 gtree-1 + PSB@50 g tree-1 + Sea weed extract @ 50 gtree-1, B3S3: Azotobacter @ 50 gtree-1 + PSB@ 50 g tree-1 + Sea weed extract @ 75 gtree-1, B3S0: Azotobacter @ 50 gtree-1 + PSB@ 50 g tree-1+ Control (without seaweed extract)\r\n*Note: Vermicompost @ 5 kg tree-1 is common to all the treatments\r\nPSB: Phosphate solubilizing bacteria\r\nRESULTS AND DISCUSSION\r\nTotal Soluble Solids (°Brix). Interaction between biofertilizers and biostimulant had significant effect on total soluble solids (°brix). Among all the interactions maximum total soluble solids (12.26°brix) was recorded with the application of B3S3- Azotobacter @ 50 g tree-1 + PSB@ 50 g tree-1 + Sea weed extract @ 75 g tree-1, which is on par with the application of B3S2- Azotobacter @ 50 g tree-1 + PSB@ 50 g tree-1 + Sea weed extract @ 50 g tree-1 (12.19°brix). The minimum total soluble solids (9.17°brix) was recorded with the application of B1S0-Azotobacter @ 50 g tree-1 and without seaweed extract.\r\nThe total soluble solids in guava fruits were increased towards the ripening due to hydrolysis of insoluble starch into soluble sugars. Increase in the TSS of fruits because application of these biofertilizers and seaweed extract enhanced the physiology of leaves, thereby causing better translocation of the important components in fruits and assimilation of photosynthates by developing fruit (Naik and Babu, 2007). The results are in conformity with those reported by Baksh et al. (2008) in guava, Rathi and Bist (2004) in pear, Attia et al. (2009) in banana.\r\nTitrable acidity (%). Interaction between biofertilizers and biostimulant had significant effect on titrable acidity (%). Among all the interactions minimum acidity (0.36 %) was recorded with the application of B3S3- Azotobacter @ 50 g tree-1 + PSB@ 50 g tree-1 + Sea weed extract @ 75 g tree-1, followed by B3S2- Azotobacter @ 50 g tree-1 + PSB@ 50 g tree-1 + Sea weed extract @ 50 g tree-1 (0.38 %). The maximum acidity (0.52 %) was recorded with the application of B3S0-Azotobacter @ 50 g tree-1 + PSB@ 50 g tree-1 and without seaweed extract.\r\nThe use of biofertilizers and seaweed extract decreased the acidity content of fruits it may be due to conversion of organic acids into sugars, better translocation and maximum accumulation of sugars into fruit tissues. The results are in conformity with those reported by Singh and Singh (2009) in ber, Baksh et al. (2008) in guava, Rathi and Bist (2004) in pear.\r\nReducing Sugars (%). Interaction between biofertilizers and biostimulant had significant effect on reducing sugars (%). Among all the interactions maximum reducing sugars (4.58 %) was recorded with the application of B3S3- Azotobacter @ 50 g tree-1 + PSB@ 50 g tree-1 + Sea weed extract @ 75 g tree-1, followed by B3S2- Azotobacter @ 50 g tree-1 + PSB@ 50 g tree-1 + Sea weed extract @ 50 g tree-1 (4.52 %). The minimum reducing sugars (3.48 %) was recorded with the application of B1S0-Azotobacter @ 50 g tree-1 and without seaweed extract.\r\nIncrease in reducing sugars could be due to the reason that the application of biofertilizers and seaweed extract increased fixation and uptake of nitrogen, thereby triggering the catalytic activity of enzymes in the physiological process and increasing production of amino acids and sugars in the developing fruits that ultimately increased the sugar content of the fruits (Dutta and Kundu, 2012). The results are in conformity with those reported by Singh and Singh (2009) in ber, Baksh et al. (2008), Kaushik Das et al. (2017) in guava.\r\nNonreducing Sugars (%). Interaction between biofertilizers and biostimulant had significant effect on non reducing sugars (%). Among all the interactions maximum non-reducing sugars (3.54%) was recorded with the application of B3S3- Azotobacter @ 50 g tree-1 + PSB@ 50 g tree-1 + Sea weed extract @ 75 g tree-1, followed by B3S2- Azotobacter @ 50 g tree-1 + PSB@ 50 g tree-1 + Sea weed extract @ 50 g tree-1 (3.50 %). The minimum non-reducing sugars (2.74 %) was recorded with application of B1S0-Azotobacter @ 50 g tree-1 and without seaweed extract.\r\nNon-reducing sugar content of fruits increased by the application of biofertilizers and seaweed extract may be because of increase in uptake of nutrients which lead to increased catalytic activities by which starch is degraded into simple sugars and thereby the quality of the fruit is improved. The results are in conformity with those reported by Singh and Singh (2009) in ber, Baksh et al. (2008), Kaushik Das et al. (2017) in guava.\r\nTotal sugars (%). Interaction between biofertilizers and biostimulant had significant effect on total sugars (%). Among all the interactions maximum total sugars (8.12 %) was recorded with the application of B3S3- Azotobacter @ 50 g tree-1 + PSB@ 50 g tree-1 + Sea weed extract @ 75 g tree-1, followed by B3S2- Azotobacter @ 50 g tree-1 + PSB@ 50 g tree-1 + Sea weed extract @ 50 g tree-1 (8.02 %). The minimum total sugars (6.22%) was recorded with the application of B1S0-Azotobacter @ 50 g tree-1 and without seaweed extract.\r\nThe total sugars in guava fruits were increased towards the ripening due to hydrolysis of insoluble starch into soluble sugars. Increase in the total sugars of fruits because application of these biofertilizers and seaweed extract enhanced the physiology of leaves, thereby causing better translocation of the important components in fruits and assimilation of photosynthates by developing fruit (Naik and Babu, 2007). The results are in conformity with those reported by Baksh et al. (2008) in guava, Rathi and Bist (2004) in pear, Attia et al. (2009) in banana.\r\nAscorbic acid (mg/100 g). Interaction between biofertilizers and biostimulant had significant effect on ascorbic acid (mg/100 g) in the fruits of guava. Among all the interactions maximum ascorbic acid (226.15 mg/100 g) was recorded with the application of B3S3- Azotobacter @ 50 g tree-1 + PSB @ 50 g tree-1 + Sea weed extract @ 75 g tree-1, followed by B3S2- Azotobacter @ 50 g tree-1 + PSB@ 50 g tree-1 + Sea weed extract @ 50 g tree-1 (222.89 mg/100 g). The minimum ascorbic acid (142.28 mg/100 g) was recorded with the application of B1S0-Azotobacter @ 50 g tree-1 and without seaweed extract.\r\nAscorbic acid content of fruit increased with the application of biofertilizers and seaweed extract because they enhanced microbial inoculants efficiency to fix atmospheric nitrogen, increase in phosphorous availability and production of growth promoting substances which speed-up the physiological process like synthesis of carbohydrates, translocation and accumulation of quality constituents like sugars, total soluble solids and ascorbic acid (Tiwari et al., 2015). These results are in conformity with those reported by Yadav et al. (2012) in guava, Singh et al. (2000) in sweet orange, Singh et al. (2009) in ber, Tripathi et al. (2010) in strawberry.\r\nShelf life (days). Interaction between biofertilizers and biostimulant had significant effect on shelf life (days). Among all the interactions maximum shelf life (7.64 days) was recorded with the application of B3S3- Azotobacter @ 50 g tree-1 + PSB@ 50 g tree-1 + Sea weed extract @ 75 g tree-1, followed B3S2- Azotobacter @ 50 g tree-1 + PSB@ 50 g tree-1 + Sea weed extract @ 50 g tree-1 (7.52 days). The minimum shelf life (5.53 days) was recorded with the application of B1S0-Azotobacter @ 50 g tree-1 and without seaweed extract.\r\nThe increase in shelf life with the application of biofertilizers and seaweed extract altered physiology and biochemistry of the fruit that reduced transpiration and respiration which in turn lowered the physiological loss in weight and increased shelf life in guava (Purnendra et al., 2017). The results are in conformity with those reported by Vanilarasu and Balakrishnamurthy (2014) in banana, Tandel et al. (2017) in papaya, Ravikiran et al. (2018) in mango.\r\n','M. Sandhyarani, A. Bhagwan, A. Kiran Kumar and M. Sreedhar (2022). Studies on effect of Biofertilizers and Biostimulant on Post Harvest Quality Parameters and Shelf Life of Guava (Psidium guajava L.) cv. Allahabad Safeda under Meadow Planting System. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 14(2): 1166-1169.'),(5026,'125','Phenotypic Screening Techniques for Fusarium Wilt Disease','Suhas Gowda H.B.*, Banshidhar and Priyanka Jaiswal','202 Phenotypic Screening Techniques for Fusarium Wilt Disease Suhas Gowda H.B.pdf','',1,'Disease attack is a crucial hindrance in agricultural food production. Fusarium wilt disease caused by the fungus Fusarium sp. causes worldwide loss in major crops like tobacco, banana, chick pea and cotton. Hence screening techniques are essential to eliminate the diseased plants and develop resistant cultivars. Phenotypic screening for a plant disease refers to testing the performance of a crop under disease stress through various assays. Phenotypic screening offers complete utilization of Host Plant Resistance (HPR) in regional cultivars. The screening assays can be broadly divided into Field based studies and Controlled environment studies. Field environment screening methods provides study of Fusarium under practical conditions. The green house screening techniques assure fast and labor-saving experiments where temperature and humidity were under control. Fusarium is a soil borne, continuously evolving pathogen, which presents challenges in controlling it. The main challenge faced while screening under field environment is that it is a tedious and laborious process whereas in greenhouse screening, understanding the interaction of the pathogen with other biotic and abiotic factors in field conditions is difficult. Designing screening studies with integration of both techniques would help in observing truly resistant cultivars and better understanding of host-pathogen-environment interactions. The information pertaining to phenotypic screening techniques for Fusarium wilt has been carefully reviewed in the present article.','Fusarium, wilt, phenotypic screening, root dip, sick plot',' Identification of resistant cultivars against Fusarium wilt primarily depends on phenotypic screening following various methods. Techniques like natural and artificial sick plot screening are considered advantageous as they are performed under real field conditions but they are little bit tedious in nature. Other techniques like Wellman root dip method and its modifications, sick pot method and split root design were employed for screening at green houses, where zero to very low interaction by other pathogens were accounted. Thus, these techniques represent true level of resistance against the pathogen. In recent years, a number of innovative approaches like Marker Assisted Breeding, Marker Assisted Selection, Genome editing, etc. have been developed and used by scientists to develop resistant cultivars. However, none of the techniques can be directly implemented or validated without a strong phenotypic screening for wilt resistance. This indicates that phenotypic screening techniques for Fusarium wilt is indispensable. Further, it is an evident fact that the Fusarium sp. continuously evolve and may increase their disease severity thus periodical screening of available resistant cultivars is desirable to maintain durable resistance against the pathogen.','INTRODUCTION\r\nAgricultural food production is frequently hampered by many biotic and abiotic factors, in which loss due to diseases is a concerning aspect. The loss due to diseases caused by pathogens like fungi, bacteria, virus, etc., accounts 10 to 25% around of total crop yield (Strange and Scott 2005; Ranjan et al., 2016). Fusarium wilt disease caused by Fusarium sp. causes worldwide loss in major crops. \r\nFusarium is a genus under the kingdom Fungi. They are filamentous and belongs to the Class Ascomycetes and Family Hypocreaceae (Okungbowa and Smith 2012). The Fusarium oxysporum Species Complex (FOSC) is a collection of strains that cause vascular wilt in economically important crops all over the world (Gordon, 2017). Under the genus Fusarium, 14 out of 20 species were highly virulent leading to development of severe wilt symptoms (Suga and Hyakumachi, 2004 and Early, 2009). Fusarium solani, Fusarium chlamydosporum, and Fusarium oxysporum are the most prevalent of these 14 species (De Hoog, 2016). \r\nFusarium is a soil borne pathogen and can be able to survive in soil for up to twenty years (Shabeer et al., 2021). This disease was first appeared and reported in in Panama Canal, Australia as stated by Ploetz and Pegg (1997). In Indian subcontinent, Fusarium wilt was first reported in West Bengal (Niwas et al., 2021). Most of the Fusarium species present in the form of chlamydospores, survival spores with thick walls (Leslie and Summerell 2006) in the soil in the absence of primary host plant (Senthamselvi et al., 2019). These chlamydospores cannot be destroyed either by heat or by adverse weather conditions and may stay in the soil further for 20 years or more (Buddenhagen, 2007; Stover, 1962). Fusarium wilt spores will experience fungus stasis, which is the inability of spores to germinate in soil. They require certain substances to aid in the germination process. Different chemical molecules, including as amino acids and carbohydrates, are released by the roots of the host plants, enhancing or stimulating the germination process (Gordan, 2017). \r\nThe fungal spores mainly spread from plant to plant within a field and field to field within an area through movement of water, soil, anthropogenic factors and animals (Meldrum et al., 2013). The Fusarium wilt fungus thrives in soil and with the help of nematodes penetrates into the root, where it progressively spreads to reach the root’s centre, causing the plant to wilt quickly.\r\nFusarium wilt disease caused by Fusarium sp. effects both sub-tropical and tropical regions, causing loss in major staple crops like banana, tomato, chickpea, lentils, etc., and it also affects commercial crops like cotton (Nelson et al., 1983; Zhang et al., 1996; Bokshi et al., 2003). Stover and Simmonds, (1987) considered FW as one among the destructive plant diseases recorded in history. In advanced stage of disease, the external leaves turn yellow and then collapse as purplish deeper shade appears in the xylem vessels and they become obstructed (Niwas et al., 2021).\r\n Most of the Fusarium wilt management methods were commonly followed for all crops that are affected by this pathogen. One of the important management methods is crop rotation with non-host crops. Weed management plays a critical role in controlling Fusarium wilt. As the fungus can stay in the weeds even without the main host crop, regular tillage is required to keep the plots weed free. Other chemical and biological control methods are often employed for limited control of disease.\r\nHowever, Fusarium sp. spreads very rapidly from one place to another and the Chlamydospores resting in soil pose significant layback to these control methods (Joshi et al., 2019). Previous studies also showed the evolution of pathogen into different races, showing the evidence of gene for gene hypothesis (Mes et al., 1999). This poses further challenge to effectiveness of the management methods. Utilizing the degree of resistance naturally present in the crop varieties paved way to develop resistant cultivars and study the mechanisms of Host-pathogen-environment interaction. In order to study these objectives, phenotypic screening is critical.The importance of phenotypic screening was emphasized by Dekkers and Hospital (2002) who emphasized that laboratory screening based on molecular markers without phenotypic screening in field or glasshouse could not be effective enough in defining the level of resistance. Phenotypic screening helps to identify and conserve the resistant cultivars specific to locations. It is important to develop resistant cultivars that suit well to a particular farming condition. In this review, an attempt has been made to discuss the various techniques utilized in phenotypic screening for Fusarium wilt disease, the advantages of testing methods and the challenges faced while employing these methods.\r\nHost Plant Resistance (HPR): Those characters that enable a plant to tolerate or recover from the pathogen attack that cause great damage to the other plant of same species is called host plant resistance (Painter, 1951). Whether the source of resistance is transgenic or natural host plant resistance, plant resistance to pathogens improves ecologically sustainable and profitable food production and provides food security. Natural resistance that has been bred into commercial types is used in host plant resistance.\r\nHost plant resistance in crops is important in preventing pathogen damage, although it is limited to that disease or pest. Understanding pathogen-plant interactions can help to increase plant resistance durability. Non-host resistance is a sort of resistance to potential diseases found in all plants. Host Plant Resistance is studied by looking at the genes involved in resistance and adopting or improving those genes in commercial cultivars (Yates et al., 2018).\r\nPlants have developed a variety of resistance mechanisms. Environmental resistance that is more dependent on environmental factors. Host evasion, induced resistance, and host escape are examples of pseudo resistance (Kumar et al., 2018). Structure barriers and allele compounds that disrupt the fungal pathogen\'s attack process are examples of genetic resistance. Antixenosis, antibiosis, and tolerance are three mechanisms of host plant resistance. Various breeding procedures and genetic engineering approaches can be used to incorporate them.\r\nTechniques for phenotypic screening for Fusarium wilt disease\r\nCulturing of Fusarium wilt pathogen: \r\nFrom the infected plants, the fungi are isolated and cultured on Potato Dextrose Agar (PDA) medium followed by pure culture preparation using the single spore isolation technique (Ranjan & Singh 2021). The purified culture was further sub-cultured for multiplication of pathogen which is used for inoculation in field or in controlled conditions. The amount of spore load in a inoculation varies depending upon the crop, pathogenic strain and environmental factors. After inoculation, usually 24 hrs-2 weeks’ time period is required for incubation of the pathogen. Under the disease inoculated environment, the cultivars were assessed for various qualitative and quantitative traits and the best performing cultivars were designated into various categories of resistance based on the values of Disease Incidence (DI), Severity Index and Disease Progress Curve (AUDPC). \r\nPhenotypic screening by Field Approach \r\nField Sick Plot method. Field sick plots can be divided into two types. Natural field sick plots for a particular disease (Bohn & Tucker 1939), where the field area was naturally contaminated with pathogen and Artificial sick plots which the name itself depicts that pathogen culture were isolated, cultured, multiplied and drenched into soil of the field that was located in the area of “hot spot” for the particular pathogen (Shirani et al., 2021). This method is the most effective and commonly used for identifying wilt-resistant castor genotypes (Prasad et al., 2019). This method was used in a number of studies for phenotypic screening of Fusarium disease in different crops (Sinha et al., 2021; Reddy et al., 2016; Manjunatha and Saifulla, 2018; Pande et al., 2012). Pratap et al. (2017) incorporated 5–6 × 106 conidia/ml/g of soil of Fusarium oxysporum f. sp. ciceris for screening introgressed lines in chickpeas. Jyothi et al., (2011) evaluated 35 accessions of sesame against Fusarium wilt under field conditions and in pots in greenhouse, all the cultivars showed certain percentage of disease infection and none of the cultivar reported to be immune. Garcia et al. (2021) reported that biocontrol agents have tremendous possibilities for the control of Fusarium wilt in Gooseberry based on their study under field conditions in artificial sick plots. Sarwar et al. (2012) identified two resistant lines in chickpea using this method. Yadav et al. (2019) concluded significant variation between field screening and pot screening. A main advantage of field sick plots is that screening can be done at real field condition, assuring the resistance of any cultivar under farming conditions while the disadvantages of field sick plots lies in its nature of being laborious to maintain germplasm at field condition. Environmental variations might influence the disease incidence in that particular season. Also, there may be a high chance for other pathogens in soil to interrupt in the screening process (Chitwood-Brown et al., 2021). Zhang et al. (2020) evaluated 3258 lines of cotton for screening of resistant plants for Fusarium wilt of cotton and reported high disease severity in low temperature conditions. \r\nPhenotypic screening by controlled environment approach\r\nWellman root dip method. This is one of the earliest methods introduced by Wellman in 1939 initially to study Fusarium wilt of tomato. Later, it was widely adopted for other crops like cucumber, chickpea, cotton, etc.,. In this technique, roots of 8-10 days old seedlings were immersed in mixtures of cultured Fusarium spores. Thus, the direct contact of pathogen with the host root was made. The seedlings were then grown in completely sterilized soil at controlled atmosphere at 20 to 30°C, favorable for growth and multiplication of pathogen inside the host. After two to three weeks, seedlings were evaluated. The presence of Fusarium wilt symptoms were thoroughly checked. Thus, the lines were screened for susceptible and resistant cultivars (Chitwood-Brown et al., 2021).\r\nIn root dip method, development of plant is harmed by colonisation of plant roots, which leads to systemic plant invasion (Wang et al., 2017). Hirai et al., (2002) developed two root stocks resistant to Fusarium oxysporum f.sp. melonis in melon with the help of Willman root dipping technique. Scott et al. (2004) used 6×107 spores/ml for root dipping in tomato for RFLP analysis whereas Faustine et al. (2016) used 1 × 106 conidia spores/ml of Fusarium oxysporum f.sp. vasinfectum for screening in cotton.\r\nSick Pot method. This method is employed to screen cultivars at green house in pots. The recombinant Inbred Lines (RILs) of Castor were phenotypically screened for Fusarium wilt disease (Shaw et al., 2022). Following the isolation of Fusarium oxysporium f.sp. ricini, the initial inoculum was prepared by using PDA medium and multiplied by using sorghum grains as substrate. The seeds were sown 24 hrs after inoculation of spores. The disease reaction is recorded up to 75 days from sowing and the data was analyzed (Ranjan et al., 2016). Kumar et al. (2021) incubated the soil for 20 days before planting in sick pots. In sick pots, the roots should be protected from any injury as this may leads to mixing of spore load is the soil. \r\nNaik et al. (2008) evaluated thirty genotypes of chillies for Fusarium wilt caused by Fusarium solani (Mart.) Sacc by sick pot method. Out of the thirty genotypes screened, only two cultivars showed moderate resistance to Fusarium wilt. The authors concluded that both seeds and plants were subjected to infection through potting culture, owing to high mortality of plants. Among the other methods utilized to screen, sick pot method was considered more suitable because it was possible to differentiate between moderate and highly resistant lines (Ranjan et al., 2016). Lal et al. (2022) used this method for validating molecular markers in RILs of chickpea, where 23 markers recorded polymorphism among the parental lines and can be used for further genotyping of RILs. Fatima et al. (2022) employed this method to assess the loss due to Fusarium sp. in chickpea and reported three predominant strains of Fusarium sp.\r\nSplit Root Design. Akram et al. (2013) followed greenhouse screening of tomato cultivar for Bacillus induced resistance to Fusarium wilt. A 30-day-old tomato seedling’s roots were split in half and a single seedling was transplanted into two combined pots. Each treatment included 50 mL of bacterial inoculum for the inducer side and 50 mL of pathogen inoculum for the responder side. The inducer side received distilled sterilized water and the responder side received pathogen inoculums for pathogen control. Both sides of the untreated control received distilled sterilized water. For incubation, pots were maintained in a greenhouse environment. 30 days after inoculation, the disease index and control effects were examined. Two Bacillus strains B. fortis IAGS162 and B. subtilis IAGS174 showed reduction of disease symptoms in tomato plants. \r\nSeed soaking technique. Ranjan et al. (2016) followed this method in which surface sterilized seeds were immersed in 200 mL of spore (1 × 106 spores/ml) suspension for 2 hours. Seeds that have been treated were planted in plastic containers. As a control, seeds treated in sterile water were employed. This approach provides an easy screening of huge number of germplasms at one place. Further, the sterile growth medium is inoculated with specific pathogen spores under study, leading to no contamination of soil by other pathogens. Screening done at seedling stage itself saves cost and time. Although, phenotypic screening at final stage is also very crucial before releasing a resistant cultivar (Koebner and Summers 2003).\r\n','Suhas Gowda H.B., Banshidhar and Priyanka Jaiswal (2022). Phenotypic Screening Techniques for Fusarium Wilt Disease. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 14(2): 1170-1174.'),(5027,'125','Factor Productivity and Technical Change in Odisha’s Agriculture: A Spatial and Temporal Analysis','Kiran L. Kadam*, S.N. Mishra, R.K. Mishra, B.P. Mohapatra and P.N. Pradhan','203 Factor Productivity and Technical Change in Odisha’s Agriculture A Spatial and Temporal Analysis Kiran L. Kadam.pdf','',1,'Agricultural productivity and technological changes are important for enhancing growth in agriculture and measurement of these would help to determine the direction of investments in agriculture. The measure that compares output with the levels of use of inputs would be the most ideal one. Keeping this in view, the total factor productivity (TFP) approach was used to decompose productivity. The TFP was decomposed into its three constituent’s viz., technical change, scale economies and the residual which in turn was interpreted as a measure of efficiency. The analysis was performed for the state as a whole as well as for the 10 agro-climatic zones The study made use of both cross-section and time series data from 1997-2007 to 2008-2018 and were obtained from the Directorate of Economics and Statistics, planning department and the department of agriculture. The analysis considered major crops and comprised of variables.\r\nThe total factor productivity (TFP) in Odisha increased at the rate of 0.05 per cent per annum during the entire period of study. This trend was due to higher growth of output (0.38 per cent) in relation to the growth of input use (0.33 per cent). During the first phase, the TFP declined by 0.02 per cent per annum while in the second phase TFP increased by 0.18 per cent per annum. The variation in TFP among the zones around the trend was mainly due to variation in output. The growth in agricultural labour force in the state was positive and higher in the second phase when compared to the first phase Introduction.\r\n','Total factor productivity (TFP), Technical change and scale economies','Agricultural productivity and technological changes are important for enhancing growth in agriculture and measurement of these would help to determine the direction of investments in agriculture. The measure that compares output with the levels of use of inputs would be the most ideal one. Keeping this in view, the total factor productivity (TFP) approach was used to decompose productivity. The TFP was decomposed into its three constituent’s viz., technical change, scale economies and the residual which in turn was interpreted as a measure of efficiency. The technical change was estimated using the translog cost function. The analysis was performed for the state as a whole as well as for the 10 agro-climatic zones and comparisons were made between high and low productive zones. The constraints for achieving higher productivity were identified so as to suggest suitable policy options that could be adopted to achieve higher productivity. The study made use of both cross-section and time series data from 1997-2007 to 2008-2018 and were obtained from the Directorate of Economics and Statistics, planning department and the department of agriculture. The analysis considered 22 crops and comprised of 58 variables such as area, production, prices, seeds, fertilizers, farm yard manure, maintenance and repair charges of fixed assets, irrigation charges, marketing costs, electricity, pesticides, diesel oil, depreciation, land rent and labour costs. The Tornqvist-Theil divisia chained indices for TFP for crop production in agro climatic zones and the state as a whole.\r\nThe total factor productivity (TFP) in Odisha increased at the rate of 0.05 per cent per annum during the entire period of study. This trend was due to higher growth of output (0.38 per cent) in relation to the growth of input use (0.33 per cent). During the first phase, the TFP declined by 0.02 per cent per annum while in the second phase TFP increased by 0.18 per cent per annum. The variation in TFP among the zones around the trend was mainly due to variation in output. The growth in agricultural labour force in the state was positive and higher in the second phase when compared to the first phase. The labour use index recorded a positive growth rate during the study- period with lower growth rates during first phase when compared to the second phase in most of the zones. The partial productivity for labour in the zones recorded negative growth rates for eight zones in the first phase and five zones in the second phase indicating an improvement in labour productivity over time. The land use index recorded a low growth indicating limited availability of land for cultivation in the state. The trend in the growth rate of land use indices in different zones and state as a whole declined from the first phase to the second phase. The marginal increase in area appears to be by way of bringing marginal and sub marginal lands under cultivation or through increase in cropping intensity. The land productivity index recorded positive growth rates in all the agro-climatic zones. The land productivity indices were higher in the second phase when compared to the first phase indicating a trend towards efficient use of land in crop production. The individual input indices recorded positive growth rates during the study period. The growth rates for input use were higher in the second phase when compared to the first phase in all the zones. The increased material input consumption is attributed to increased area under irrigation and higher cropping intensity. The increased use of energy in agriculture is attributed to growth in irrigation pump sets, purchase of tractors and diesel engines and also due to steep rise in fuel prices. The growth in capital consumption was attributed to machinery equipments, buildings and bullock labour. The increased input use in agriculture implied intensification of technology in crop production. The technical change registered a positive growth indicating increased use of new technologies in crop production. The technical change was observed to be both labour and input saving.\r\nAs the labour productivity indicated a declining trend it was suggested that a part of labour could be diverted to other enterprises so as to achieve higher level of output. Input saving technical change observed in Odisha implied that with lower levels of input use the existing output can be achieved. Thus, higher level of outputs could be achieved with a small increase in the inputs. The dis-economies of scale recorded were attributed to the decline in the size of holding and emphasized the fact that the farmers were operating beyond optimum point on the expansion path. The decomposition of TFP indicated the productivity gains at 0.02 per cent, technical change at 0.07 per cent, scale economies at -0.04 per cent and the residual or efficiency at 0.02 per cent per annum respectively for the entire period of study. This analysis provides evidence that positive effect of technical change and efficiency was neutralized by negative effect of scale economies thereby resulting in lower productivity. This calls for reducing Investment in inputs which are used above the required level to produce a unit of output or bring about optimal combination of inputs to improve the productivity. The decomposition analysis further indicated positive growth in technical change for plain and plateau zones and negative rates in hilly and coastal zones. The operation of positive scale economies was observed in most of the zones. The residual productivity or efficiency was negative in most of the zones implying inefficiency in production. The need to educate the farmers regarding the efficient use of resources in the zones through the extension agencies was felt necessary.\r\n','INTRODUCTION\r\nThe present situation in Indian agriculture rightly deserves a renewed attention because of two reasons. First, at micro level farmers continue to be vulnerable to monsoon failures and their incomes badly affected. Secondly at the macro level, the fast changing international agricultural trade competition requires agriculture to be more efficient. The slow or stagnant growth in agriculture is considered to be a drag on the overall economic growth. The agricultural sector presently is expected to grow at four per cent in order to achieve the nine per cent growth rate that is targeted for the economy.\r\nThe extent of India\'s regional disparities has been an issue since at least independence, and this concern has been partly motivated by a desire to alleviate poverty. Agriculture remains an important feature of the economic, cultural and political landscape in India demonstrated that the poverty responds more to rural and agricultural economic growth than urban economic growth in developing countries. In the post-green revolution period, particularly in Asia, productivity growth has been sustained through increased input use and, more recently, through more efficient use of inputs India is divided into 29 states on administrative reasons. They were of the view that regional imbalances were likely to widen in the absence of state intervention and narrow with politically necessary interventions, till finally the periphery becomes a beneficiary of the external economies of the core. However, after 50 years of planned development in India, many backward regions remain backward. Recently both inequalities among states and inequalities among districts or regions within states are growing across many states due to misguided policy (Audirac, 1997; Kurian, 2000). Orissa is one of the poorest states located in eastern India is economic security continues to be predicated upon the agriculture sector, and the situation is not likely to change in the foreseeable future. Even now, agriculture supports 58% of the population, as against about 75% at the time of independence. In the same period, the contribution of agriculture and allied sector to the Gross Domestic Product (GDP) has fallen from 61 to 19%. As of today, India supports 16.8% of world is population on 4.2% of world is water resources and 2.3% of global land. And per caput availability of resources is about 4 to 6 times less as compared to world average. This will decrease further due to increasing demographic pressure and consequent diversion of the land for non-agricultural uses.\r\nAround 51% of India is geographical area is already under cultivation as compared to 11% of the world average. The present cropping intensity of 136% has registered an increase of only 25% since independence. Further, rainfed dry lands constitute 65% of the total net sown area. There is also an unprecedented degradation of land (107 million ha) and groundwater resource, and also fall in the rate of growth of total factor productivity. This deceleration needs to be arrested and agricultural productivity has to be doubled to meet growing demands of the population by 2050. Efficiency-mediated improvement in productivity is the most viable option to raise production.\r\nThe country recorded impressive achievements in agriculture during three decades since the onset of green revolution in late sixties. This enabled the country to overcome widespread hunger and starvation; achieve self-sufficiency in food; reduce poverty and bring economic transformation in millions of rural families. The situation, however, started turning adverse for the sector around mid-nineties, with slowdown in growth rate of output, which then resulted in stagnation or even decline in farmer’s income leading to agrarian distress, which is spreading and turning more and more serious.\r\nIndia where about 65.97% of the population lives in rural Agriculture is the mainstay of the State’s economy, providing employment to about 65% of the total work force, but it contributed only 22.5% to the net state domestic production in More than 46% of the population lives below the poverty line in rural areas, as against 37% for all India in 2004 Percentage of small farmers (with less than 2 ha of land) is about 57% and landless laborers are about 36% of total households in rural Orissa (Mishra, 2009). In most of the development indicators,\r\nThe state is located in the eastern coast of India between 170 49\' to 220 34\' North Latitude and 810 29\' to- 870 29\' East Longitude. The state is surrounded by Andhra Pradesh on the South-East, Madhya Pradesh on the West, Bihar in North, West Bengal in North-East and Bay of Bengal in the East. In terms of population the state is 11th biggest state in India and in terms of area holds the 9th rank. Physiographic features of the State\r\nThe state is divided into two board regions; the plateau region and the coastal region. The Plateau region comprises 77% of total geographical area of the state whereas, rest 23% of geographical area constitute the coastal region. The state has tropical climate, characterized by high temperature, high humidity, medium to high rainfall and short and mild winters. The south-west monsoon normally sets in Orissa is an agrarian state. Agriculture is the mainstay of State’s economy and means for sustenance of rural people. An agriculture, animal husbandry, fishery and forestry sub- sector contribute 17.59 % of the state domestic products as against 14.19% at national level and provides employment, directly or indirectly to 65 % of the Research Setting 85 total work force. Evidently, Agriculture plays a critical role in the economy of the state and the livelihood of majority of its populace.\r\nAccording to the 2011 Census of India, Odisha has a working population of 17,541,589, among them 61% are main workers and rest are marginal workers. 33.9% of the total working female population are main workers. As of June 2014, Odisha has 10,95,151 people registered in various employment exchanges of the state, of them 10,42,826 reported themselves educated. Odisha had a rural unemployment rate of 8.7% and an urban unemployment rate 5.8% calculated based on the current daily status basis in the 68th National Sample Survey (2011-2012). The per capita income of the state was 98,983 in 2013–14.\r\nProblem statement. Agricultural production has been an issue of concern for some years in India in general and Odisha in particular. Worries about the growth potential of agriculture has emerged since the second half of the 1990s, when the sector suffered a slow down after rapid growth in the initial stage of the Green Revolution. Pessimism continued to develop in the 2000s. As one of the lessons from the recent crises, it is now widely recognized that productivity growth is the key factor in economic development and sustained growth. Most governments are putting emphasis on productivity growth as one of the major goals of economic policy. Many economists conceive that the relative returns to agricultural activities have been too low and investment in agriculture has been insufficient. Theoretically, sources of economic growth are composed of factor accumulation and productivity growth. The first source may lead to high growth rates, but only for a limited period of time. Thereafter, the law of diminishing returns inevitably occurs. Consequently, sustained growth can only be achieved through productivity growth, that is, the ability to produce more and more output with the same amount of input.\r\nIn the context, it is important to examine critically the past performance of agriculture and based on it, future prospects of growth can be assessed. Total factor Productivity (TFP) is a ratio of an index of aggregate output to aggregate input. TFP is one of the most convenient indicators to evaluate economic performance as an ex-post facto. Growth of total factor productivity provides society with an opportunity to increase the welfare of people. Therefore, accurate measurement of TFP is crucial for understanding changes in productivity growth. Keeping in view the importance of agriculture in the State economy, quantitative assessment of TFP and contribution of various factors to TFP growth at the State level was undertaken with the following specific objectives. This will help in reorienting of the programmes and priorities of agricultural development so as to achieve higher growth of agriculture for economic prosperity. Government provided more incentives such as remunerative prices to protect farmers’ interest, availability of credit facilities, improving irrigation facilities, improving markets of both output and input, more investment in agricultural research and extension services, etc. to farmers to produce more. After these developments, it is expected that farmers would become more price responsive. But, the previous studies as well as recent studies have shown that Indian agriculture is low price responsive (Rao, 2005).\r\nIn the agricultural production of Odisha some pertinent questions like what is the direction of productivity?, What is the direction and type of technical change?, Are there economies of scale in agricultural production?, Are inputs efficiently utilized? and What are the constraints in achieving higher agricultural productivity? need elaboration. In this study an attempt has been made to understand the above raised issues by developing a system of productivity analysis and its decomposition into meaningful constituents. In addition, constraints for achieving higher productivity in the state have to be identified.\r\nMETHODOLOGY\r\nThis section discusses in brief about the selection of study area, selection of crops, source and nature of data collected, period of study and theoretical framework of the analytical techniques used.\r\nThe details of this chapter are discussed under the following headings: Description of the study area Sampling design Collection of data and Methods of analysis\r\nDescription of the study area. The study pertains to the state of Odisha which is located between the latitudes 17.78°N and 22.73°N, and longitudes between 81.37E and 87.53E. The state has an area of 155,707 km2, which is 4.87% of total area of India, and a coastline of 450 km. Odisha has been divided into 10 agro-climatic zones. The high rainfall areas of hilly and coastal zones record 1300 mm to 4700 mm rainfall. The transitional zones receive medium rain fall ranging between 800 mm and 1300 mm and low rainfall (465 mm to 800 mm) is witnessed in dry zones indicating varied rainfall behavior, cropping patterns and soil types, consequent variations in production and productivity\r\nThe study covers the ten \"agro-climatic zones\' of Odisha which are based on rainfall pattern, topography, soil type and cropping pattern. The details of the districts coming in different agro climatic zones are presented in Table, 1. In defining an agro-climatic zone, block is considered as the administrative unit since the data on climate, land use, crop production, input supply, institutional and infrastructural facilities are not available below that level. It is to be mentioned here that Planning Commission suggested accepting district as unit of planning because of their administrative framework and definite geographical boundaries. At this level a co- ordination between macro and micro level planning can also be established. Therefore, the entire district or if maximum number of blocks of a particular district falls under a specified agro-climatic zone the same is considered as a representative district (Table 1). The data on variables (Table 2) were obtained for the years 1997-2007 to 2008-2018 covering a period of 22 years. For the purpose of dynamic analysis the total period of 22 years was split into two sub-periods as indicated below\r\nSampling design. For the purpose of analysing the productivity and technical change the state of Odisha was choosen as the primary unit with agro-climatic zones as the sub-units. From each agroclimatic zone one representative district was selected using multistage stratified sampling procedure for detailed analysis. The selected districts are indicated in Table 1.\r\nCollection of Data. For the purpose of analysis, both time series and cross section data were used. The variables or parameters considered in the study are presented in Table 2. The data relating to these selected variables were obtained mainly from published sources as well as unpublished reports of the department of agriculture, directorate of economics and statistics and department of planning, Government of Odisha.\r\nSince large numbers of variables were involved in the analysis and the sources of information were many, there were some gaps with respect to some of the variables like labour and number of tractors. In such cases linear interpolation was resorted to get the missing values. Whenever, data on sample district representing agro climatic zone was not available, figures were apportioned based on consumption of inputs of respective districts.\r\nMETHOD OF ANALYSIS\r\nAnalysis of total factor productivity (TFP) by Tornqvist-Theil divisia chained index number approach.\r\nAnalysis of TFP attempts to measure the amount of increase in total output which is not accounted for by increase in total inputs. TFP index can be defined as the ratio of weighted combination of output to awaited combination of inputs (Rao, 2005). Various methods have been used for analyzing the TFP index (Christensen, 1975). In this study, Tornqvist Theil index was used for computing the total output, total input and TFP indices of selected crops. This Tornqvist Theil index is considered as a superior index for calculating TFP (Rosegrant and Evenson 1995).\r\nThis index provides reliable aggregation of inputs and outputs under the assumptions of constant returns to scale, competitive behavior and input- output separability. An added benefit of this index is that it accounts for some changes in quality of inputs also. Because of the use of current factor prices for constructing the weights for input- output index, quality improvements in inputs are built-in to the extent that these are reflected in higher wages and rental rates (Desai, 2012).\r\nThe study was carried out in Odisha during 1997-2018. Data relating to selected variables from the publications of Directorate of Economics and Statistics, Odisha. The quantities of inputs used per hectare and their per hectare expenditure, yield and per unit/hectare price of crops output were collected from “Comprehensive Scheme for the Study of Cost of Cultivation of Principal Crops”, Directorate of Economics and Statistics (DES), GOI. The missing year data on inputs, outputs and their prices were predicted using interpolation and extrapolation based on trends in the available data.\r\nBy expressing in logarithmic form the Tornquist-Theil TFP index is given by equation- ln (TFPt /TFPt-1) = ½ ∑j (Rjt+ Rjt-1) ln (Qjt /Qjt-1) – ½ ∑i (Cit +Cit-1) ln (Xit / Xit-1)\r\nWhere,\r\nRjt = Share of output, j in revenues in the year t, Qjt = Output j in the year t, Cit = Share of input, I in total input cost in year t, Xit = Input i in period t\r\nQj and Xi are in monetary value\r\nThis index was computed as the ratio of an index of aggregate outputs to an index to aggregate inputs of individual crop. Considering the index equal to 100 in a particular year (1997 in the present study) and accumulating the measure based on the above equation results the TFP index. This TFP index was calculated for all crops collectively. For collective estimation of TFP for those crops.\r\nIn the study, the input, output and TFP indices were calculated both in current price and constant price (at price of 1997) of the inputs and outputs to find out whether there any price effect was existed or not. Again, the indices were also computed for per hectare area and total area under the selected crops in Odisha to know how efficiently the input was used in both situations.\r\nTo estimate the TFP index for individual crops per hectare, all physical quantities of all the eight inputs used and output produced particular crop were collected for all years and were multiplied with their respective prices to obtain their value terms. Then estimated out total cost per hectare by adding values of all inputs and similarly calculated out total revenue by adding outputs (main product and by product if any) of each individual crops for each year. After that, the contribution of each individual item to its respective total was estimated and considered as its share. In this case all the inputs and outputs were in value terms used per hectare of the individual crops. Again, for estimating the TFP per hectare for all crops collectively, first combined together the outputs produced and all inputs used per hectare of the all crops and then found out their share to total for all years. On the other hand, for calculating the TFP index for the total area under the each selected individual crop in the state, the per hectare expenditure of each input and revenue from each output were multiplied with respective crop area during each year. The expenditures on all inputs and revenue from each output were added to estimate total expenditure and total revenue of the particular crop for each year. Then computed the share of each individual item. By aggregating crop wise expenditure on each input items and revenue from each output, the TFP was calculated for all crops collectively every year.\r\nAfter, estimating the shares of inputs and outputs, average share of the each inputs as well as each output of two succeeding years, t and t-1 were computed. After \r\nthat all value of items were converted into logarithm form and then found out the ratio of inputs and outputs at t year to t-1 year. Then multiplied with their respective average shares to find out the individual input and output indices. By adding those individual input and output indices, the composite input and output indices were obtained. Then, the differences between composite output and composite input indices were estimated which in turn provided TFP.\r\nThen to find out the final input, output and TFP indices, took antilog of the composite input, output and TFP and considered the value of all indices for base year 1997 as 100. Then finally, value of all indices for next to base year and so on calculated by multiplying antilog value of index of the same year to final index of previous year.\r\nAs mentioned above, all the indices were calculated out both current price and constant price. At first, all the inputs and outputs were valued at price of the respective years and based on those values TFP and other indices were calculated, again, all the inputs and outputs were valued at a constant price of the year of 1997 and based on those indices were estimated. This estimation would give a clear picture about price effect on all the estimated indices.\r\nThe estimation of input, output, and TFP growth rates for the specified periods was done by fitting an exponential (or semi-log) trend equation. It was noted that, input, output and TFP growth rates were also estimated by fitting the same exponential (or semi-log) trend equation to the triennium moving average of input, output and TFP indices. It was done to avoid the drastic variation in time series data. The exponential functional form:\r\nY = abt or,\r\nln y = ln a + t ln b \r\nWhere,\r\ny = time series data on input, output and TFP b = regression coefficient\r\nt = time period in year\r\nCompound Growth Rate (CGR) input, output and TFP was computed by using the formula: CGR = Antilog (b-1) × 100\r\nTo estimate the contribution of TFP in agriculture, its per cent share in total output was estimated.\r\nRESULT\r\nThe results of the study are presented in fourth sections. The first section centers on growth and changing agricultural productivity in Odisha and in the ten agro-climatic zones of the state. The second section is set apart to present the details on assessment of technical change in crop production during the study period. In the third section, the growth performance and technical change are compared between high productive and low productive agro-climatic zones. The fourth section concentrates on identifying the constraints for achieving higher agricultural productivity growth and determinants for TFP in the state.\r\nGrowth and changing agricultural productivity in the state. The growth and changing productivity in the 10 agro-climatic zones and the state as a whole were assessed by considering the information on area, production and prices of 16 crops. The value of inputs used (in Rupees) have been obtained for seeds, fertilizers, farm yard manure, maintenance and repair charges of fixed assets, irrigation charges, marketing\r\ncosts, electricity charges, pesticide costs, diesel oil charges, depreciation, wages in agricultural sector both family and hired labour and land rent. The prices considered were the weighted average of wholesale prices prevailed in the state and for agro-climatic zones, the wholesale prices recorded at the district levels have been used as proxy. The Tornqvist-Theil divisia chained indices were computed to assess the growth and the results are presented in Table 3.\r\nAggregate growth in output, input and total factor productivity (TFP).\r\nOver the entire period (1997 to 2018) of study the output recorded a growth rate of 10.26 per cent. During the same period, input use index increased by 7.36 per cent. The TFP index decreased in the first period and recorded slight increase in second period. However, for the entire period it recorded a mere 2.70 per cent growth. The growth of TFP at 0.05 per cent per annum is a resultant of output growth at 0.27 per cent minus the input growth at the rate of 0.23 per cent per annum, the pattern of growth in TFP could be divided into two distinct phases. In the first phase, representing the period 1997 to 2007 the TFP declined by 0.02 per cent per annum.\r\nIn the second phase representing the period 2008 to 2018 the TFP grew at 0.17 per cent per annum. The growth in output and input indices obviously explain the behavior in TFP growth. In the first phase, the growth in output was marginally lower than the growth in input which resulted in a decline of TFP by 0.02 per cent. In the second phase, the growth of output was higher than the growth in the input. Hence, TFP recorded a growth rate of 0.17 per cent per annum. In the first phase, the decline in TFP was not only due to low output growth but also due to proportionally high increase in the use of inputs. On the contrary, in the second phase output growth was higher with proportionately low input use resulting in the growth of TFP at 0.17 per cent per annum per annum) while during the second phase it grew at the rate of 0.52 per cent per annum. Thus, the aggregate growth of about 0.23 per cent recorded during the entire study period has mainly taken place during the second phase indicating improved efficiency in the use of land over the time period\r\nAggregate partial productivities of labour and land. The growth rates in the partial productivity indices for labour and land presented in Table 3 indicated that labour productivity decreased significantly in both the periods.\r\nHowever, land productivity index recorded a positive growth rates in both the periods. The growth rate during the first phase for land productivity was almost stagnant (0.04 per cent Table 3 Tornqvist-Theil Divisia Chained Aggregate Output, Input TFP and Partial Productivity Indices for Odisha State.\r\nAggregate growth for use of individual inputs. The aggregate indices for individual inputs (Table 4) indicated labour use recording a growth rate of 10.51 per cent, land 2.67 per cent, material inputs 9.37 per cent, energy and capital use in agriculture each at about 08 per cent. The average annual growth for labour, material inputs, energy and capital use in Odisha\'s agriculture recorded higher growth rates during second phase while in case of land use it was higher during the first phase.\r\nCosts shares and annual growth rates of output and inputs. The average value of cost shares for the period 1997-2018 are presented in Table 5 together with the growth rates of indices for output and individual inputs. The weights for each of the twelve inputs were computed from their shares in total cost. The average share of each of the are presented in Table 5. For arriving at the material input index, four inputs namely seed, fertilizer, farm yard manure and pesticides were considered. The energy index comprised of irrigation, electricity and diesel oil charges. The capital index was constructed using the value of current repairs and maintenance of fixed assets and consumption of fixed capital. \r\nFrom the Table 5 it is clear that crop output recorded a growth rate of 8.02 per cent during the first phase while it grew at the rate of 09.72 per cent during the second phase. The growth rates for individual inputs depicted in Fig. 5 provide the explanation of the intensification paradox in seed, fertilizer and pesticide use. It is interesting to note that land and labour together accounted for about more than 80 per cent of the input weights. There has been a mixed growth in the use of inputs over the entire period. The weight on land and labour no doubt conceals the love of intensifications. However, it is clear that most of the inputs recorded more than 10 per cent growth per annum. In fact, land, seed and farm yard manure recorded lesser growth rates compared to other inputs. During the first phase, 7 out of 12 inputs recorded a growth rate over 10 per cent. The growth in the usage of pesticides, electricity and fertilizers were quite high. \r\nA similar trend was observed during the second phase particularly, the growth in the use of electricity and seed. The growth recorded for land and labour inputs have declined over the study period. Since they together accounted for a major share of total cost, the growth in aggregate input was lower when compared to the aggregate output during the same period.\r\nComparative analysis of growth in ten agro-climatic zones of the state. The average annual growth rates by period for the ten agro climatic zones in the state were computed for both outputs and inputs. The results of the same are presented in Table 6. Aggregate growth in output, input and TFP in ten agro climatic zones.\r\nThe annual average growth rates of Tornqvist-Theil divisia chained output indices for the entire period (1997-2018) in ten agro-climatic zones of Odisha ranged from 0.30 per cent in western central table land zone to 0.48 per cent in western plateau zone. During the first phase, the least growth rate was noticed in North Eastern Ghats (0.10 per cent) and highest in western undulating zone (0.40 per cent). The growth rate in the second phase was low at 0.33 per cent per annum in the western central table land zone and was high (0.93 per cent per annum) for North Eastern Ghats. Similarly, the growth in input use was least (0.29 per cent) in north western plateau zone and highest (0.36 per cent) in East & South Eastern coastal plain and South Eastern Ghats zone. The growth rate during first phase was least at 0.20 per cent in north western plateau and was highest at 0.32 per cent in western undulating zone. A highest growth rate of 0.57 per cent per annum during second phase was observed in north-eastern coastal zone. In general, the annual growth rate in input indices indicated that there was not much variation between the zones. However, relatively lower growth rates were observed in the first phase when compared to the second phase in most of the zones.\r\nThe growth in the total factor productivity (TFP) for the entire period (1997-2018) was minimum (-0.05 per cent) in western central table land zone as well as in the south Eastern Ghats zone While, it was maximum (0.19 per cent) in the northern western plateau zone. During first phase (1997 to 2007), the growth rate was least (-0.17 per cent per annum) in the North Eastern Ghats zone and highest (0.16 per cent per annum) in the western undulating zone. The growth rate during second phase (2008 to 2018) was least at -0.12 per cent in Western Central table land zone and highest in North Central Plateau zone (0.38 per cent per annum). A closer observation of growth in total factor productivity for the entire period (1997 to 2018) and the sub-periods indicated significant variation among the ten agro- climatic zones and the state. The highest productivity (TFP) growth was noticed in the North Central Plateau zone. The growth in TFP was positive in only four of the ten agro-climatic zones during the first phase. However, the growth in TFP during second phase was positive for 9 out of 10 zones. During second phase, only Western Central table land zone recorded a negative growth rate of -0.12 per cent per annum.\r\nAggregate partial productivities of labour and land for different zones in the state. The partial productivity indices for land and labour in the ten agro-climatic zones and the state as a whole are presented in Table 7. As labour and land cost formed about 80 per cent of the total cost in production process, partial productivities were computed only for these two inputs for the entire period (1997-2018) and also for the sub-periods of the study. The average growth rate of labour productivity for the entire period of study was negative in all the agro-climatic zones except North Eastern Coastal Plain and East & South Eastern Coastal Plain zones. Both these zones recorded a growth rate of 0.03 per cent per annum. A lowest growth rate of -0.13 per cent was observed in South Eastern Ghat zone. In the first phase, all the agro-climatic zones and consequently the state as a whole recorded a negative labour productivity except the North Western Plateau and Western Undulating zones. The lowest growth rate during the first phase (-0.22 per cent per annum) was observed in the South Eastern Ghat zone. The growth rate was highest (0.05 per cent per annum) in North Western Plateau zone. During second phase (2008- 2018), the labour productivity was lowest (-0.14 per cent per annum) in Western Undulating Zone and Western Central table land zones. The highest growth rate was recorded in the North Eastern Ghat zone. Thus, during the entire period of study positive growth in labour productivity was indicated in only two agro-climatic zones viz., North Eastern Coastal Plain Zone and East & South Eastern Coastal Plain zone. The remaining eight zones and the state as a whole recorded negative growth in labour productivity at varied rates. Further, a comparison of the labour productivity growth rates in first and second periods of the study indicated that only two agro-climatic zones have recorded positive productivity in first phase. While in second phase positive growth rates were observed in five zones. Land is an intangible input and at the same time an important asset in crop production. The indices worked out for productivity of land were positive. It varied from 0.15 per cent per annum for South Eastern Ghat Zone to 0.35 per cent per annum for North Eastern Coastal Plain zone during the whole period of study. The growth rate in land productivity during first period was lowest (-0.10 per cent per annum) in North Eastern Ghat zone and was highest (0.23 per cent per annum) in Western Undulating zone. In the second period, land productivity growth rates were positive for all agro-climatic zones and obviously for the whole state. The lowest growth rate in the second period (0.24 per cent per annum) was recorded for Western Central table land zone. The highest growth rate of 0.80 per cent per annum was observed in North Easter n Ghat zone. Like labour, the productivity of land also improved during the second period. The positive growth rate in land productivity Table 6 Tornqvist – Theil divisia chained aggregate output, input and TFP indices growth for different agro-climatic zones in the state.Aggregate individual input indices for ten agro-climatic zones and the state. The Tornqvist-Theil divisia chained input indices recorded positive growth rates for labour in all the ten agro-climatic zones and the state as a whole (Table 8). The growth rates for labour indices were lower in Western Central table land and Mid Central Table Land. It was around the state average (0.43 per cent) in other zones. The growth rates were generally higher during the second phase when compared to the first phase with the highest growth rate at 0.72 per cent per annum in North Central Plateau zone.\r\nThe average annual growth rate for land indices was positive in both periods. It was lowest (0.09 per cent per annum) in Western Central table land zone and highest in East & South Eastern Coastal Plain (0.21 per cent per annum) during entire period of study. In the first phase, a leas growth rate of 0.12 per cent per annum was recorded in Mid Central Table Land zone with the highest growth rate of 0.20 per cent per annum in Eastern Ghats High Land, North Central Plateau and North Western Plateau zones. For second phase, a lower growth rate of 0.09 per cent per annum was observed in the Western Central table land zone and a highest growth rate of 0.27 per cent was seen in East & South Easter Coastal Plain zone. The pattern of growth rates of material input indices indicated that they were generally low during the first period when compared to the second. This index was highest in Western Central table land (0.32 per cent) zone during the first period while it was highest (0.75 per cent) in the North Central Plateau zone in the second period. The indices for energy use were generally low and varied from 0.23 per cent per annum for Mid Central Table Land and South Eastern Ghat zones to 0.73 per cent in the North Central Plateau zone in the first phase. The indices were higher during the second phase with a value of 2.01 per cent per annum in the North Central Plateau. The indices of capital use followed the same trend as was observed for other inputs with lower values during the first period and higher values in the second period. The overall growth in the indices was 0.49 per cent per annum during the entire period. The capital use indices recorded a highest growth rate at 1.67 per cent per annum in the North Western Plateau zone and lowest at 0.83 per cent per annum in Western Central table land zone during the second phase bullock labour appear to be the main reason for a higher level of capital use index. The observe 9.85 per cent increase in crop output may be attributed to positive and relatively higher growth rates observed in the use of the material input, energy and the capital. On the labour and land use which accounted for more than 80 per cent of the cost recorded a declining trend. This indicated a trend towards substitution of labour and land by mechanical and bio-chemical inputs in Odisha\'s agriculture. A similar explanation was given by Thirtle and Bottomley (1992) for the growth of agriculture in U.K. The growth rates for indices of material inputs, energy consumption and capital use recorded lower values in the first phase when compared to the second phase. The variation among different zones in the use of the above inputs is related to differential quantum of area under irrigation and rainfall pattern. The growth rates were generally lower in high and medium rainfall areas of Mid Central Table Land and Western Central table land. Whereas, the arid and semi-arid tracts have recorded higher growth rates. The increased consumption of diesel oil and electricity to exploit groundwater, especially in the dry land areas has resulted in the growth of energy consumption in agriculture. The increased growth in capital use may be attributed to the continuous adoption of improved technology. The higher growth rates recorded in the use of material inputs, energy consumption and capital use should be interpreted with caution since it is not only due to higher level of input use in quantity terms but also due to increased prices. This is particularly so since the prices paid have been taken into consideration in arriving at the value which are further used in the construction of indices. In general, the use of labour, material inputs, energy and capital have recorded high growth rates during the second phase when compared to the first phase. On the contrary, land use registered high rates of growth for the zones and the state as a whole during the first phase than in the second phase. This indicated the intensification of variable inputs vis-a-vis the fixed inputs like land in agriculture. The average annual growth rates for output produced and input used were higher in the second phase when compared to the first phase. Unlike the first phase, output performed better than the input use during the second phase resulting in a positive growth in TFP. However, it has to be mentioned here that aggregate outputs have not changed appreciably from the first phase to second phase. bullock labour appear to be the main reason for a higher level of capital use index. The observed 9.85 per cent increase in crop output may be attributed to positive and relatively higher growth rates observed in the use of the material input, energy and the capital. On the labour and land use which accounted for more than 80 per cent of the cost recorded a declining trend. This indicated a trend towards substitution of labour and land by mechanical and bio-chemical inputs in Odisha\'s agriculture. A similar explanation was given by Thirtle and Bottomley (1992) for the growth of agriculture in U.K. The growth rates\r\nfor indices of material inputs, energy consumption and capital use recorded lower values in the first phase when compared to the second phase. The variation among different zones in the use of the above inputs is related to differential quantum of area under irrigation and rainfall pattern. The growth rates were generally lower in high and medium rainfall areas of Mid Central Table Land and Western Central table land. Whereas, the arid and semi-arid tracts have recorded higher growth rates. The increased consumption of diesel oil and electricity to exploit groundwater, especially in the dry land areas has resulted in the growth of energy consumption in agriculture. The increased growth in capital use may be attributed to the continuous adoption of improved technology. The higher growth rates recorded in the use of material inputs, energy consumption and capital use should be interpreted with caution since it is not only due to higher level of input use in quantity terms but also due to increased prices. This is particularly so since the prices paid have been taken into consideration in arriving at the value which are further used in the construction of indices. In general, the use of labour, material inputs, energy and capital have recorded high growth rates during the second phase when compared to the first phase. On the contrary, land use registered high rates of growth for the zones and the state as a whole during the first phase than in the second phase. This indicated the intensification of variable inputs vis-a-vis the fixed inputs like land in agriculture. The average annual growth rates for output produced and input used were higher in the second phase when compared to the first phase. Unlike the first phase, output performed better than the input use during the second phase resulting in a positive growth in TFP. However, it has to be mentioned here that aggregate outputs have not changed appreciably from the first phase to second phase.\r\nDISCUSSION\r\nGrowth and changing agricultural productivity in the state. The index number approach was chosen for the measurement of the growth in productivity. The Tornqvist-Theil divisia chained index was preferred because of its superiority and it Appropriateness for the linear homogeneous translog production function (Diewert, 1976). A further advantage of the Tornqvist- Theil divisia chained index is that it accounts for changes in quality of inputs. Since current factor prices are used in constructing the weights, quality, improvements in inputs can be incorporated to the extent that these are reflected in higher wage and rental rates (Capalbo and Vo 1988). These indices provide consistent aggregation of inputs and outputs under the assumptions of competitive behavior, constant returns to scale, Hick\'s neutral technical change and input output separability. Further, Caves et al. (1982) have shown that Tornqvist-Theil divisia chained indices are superlative under very general production structures, i.e., non- homogeneous and non- constant returns to scale, providing consistent aggregation across a range of production structure (Antle and Capalbo 1988).\r\n \r\nGrowth of output, input and total factor productivity (TFP). The total factor productivity (TFP) in the state declined (-0.03 per cent) during first phase (Table 3) while in the second phase it grew at the rate of 0.18 per cent per annum. The growth in output and input indices must explain this behavioral growth of TFP. In the first phase, the growth in output was marginally lower than the growth in input. However, in the second phase, the growth in output was higher than the growth in input. In the first phase, the decline in TFP was not only due to low growth in output but also due to proportionately increased use of inputs. However, in the second phase, higher output growth (0.68 per cent) relative to lower input growth (0.49 per cent) was responsible for the overall TFP growth at 0.18 per cent per annum. This increasing trend has been observed in the total agricultural production where 22 crops have been aggregated. However, declining productivity in the production of major cereals has been indicated in the Report of the Expert Committee on stagnation of agricultural productivity in Odisha. Thus, it is clear that Odisha\'s aggregate agricultural productivity has not stagnated even though stagnation is observed in the production of major cereals such as paddy which accounts for about 65 per cent of the total area under cultivation. The increased use of fertilizer and pesticides in crop production has also partly contributed to increased productivity. This trend of measure was used by Thirtle and Bottomley (1992) in measuring the growth in productivity.\r\nThe Tornqvist-Theil divisia chained output indices in the ten agro-climatic zones and the state as a whole recorded the lowest growth at 0.30 per cent per annum in the Western Central table land with a highest growth at 0.48 per cent in the North Eastern Coastal Plain for the entire period of study. An examination of input indices indicated the existence of minimal variation between the zones. However, it is interesting to note that lower growth rates were observed in the first phase when compared to the second phase.\r\nThe average annual growth rate in TFP for the entire period was minimum (-0.05 per cent) in the South Eastern Ghat as well as in Western Central table land, while it was maximum (0.19 per cent) for North western plateau. The TFP growth indicated considerable variation across the ten agro-climatic zones and also between two sub-periods. The growth in TFP was observed to be positive in 4 zones during the first phase while 9 out of 10 zones recorded a positive growth during second phase. The large variation observed in TFP may be attributed to output changes and high fluctuations observed due to weather aberrations. Besides, the varied levels of input use had its own influence on the TFP. The comparative analysis indicated lower rates in output, input use and TFP in the first phase when compared to the second phase. This implied limited impact of the green-revolution in Odisha\'s agriculture during the first phase. However, the higher levels achieved in the second phase may be attributed to the use of bio-chemical technology in crop production\r\nGrowth in labour, land and partial productivity indices. The labour use index increased from 0.32 per cent in the first phase to 0.55 per cent during the second phase. The growth of population particularly the labour force has been high, whereas, employment opportunities have been few. This has resulted in employing large number of unskilled labour force in the agricultural sector and has been reflected by higher growth rates especially in the second phase all throughout the state. The labour use index recorded a positive growth rate during the study period with comparatively low growth rates during first phase and higher rates in the second phase for different zones. From these results, it could be inferred that labour use increased over the period less than proportionately to crop production in most of the zones except the hilly and coastal zones. The Western Central table land and Mid Central Table Land are endowed with better resources and have different cropping pattern with relatively large area under plantation crops which demand higher level of labour force. Contrary to labour use indices (Table 3) the partial productivity of labour in the state as a whole recorded negative growth rates during first phase as well as the second phase. Positive productivity rates were observed only in two zones during the first phase while it was positive in five zones during the second phase indicating an improvement in labour productivity over time. The negative growth in labour productivity in the agricultural sector of the state may be attributed to the low level of capital formation in agriculture. Labour use in the state has increased at a relatively higher pace when compared to land use. Further, the growth in the use of material inputs, energy and capital are not that high to absorb the additional labour force in agriculture. Resultantly, all these factors have contributed to negative productivity of labour. However, the improvement in productivity of labour through decline in negative values in the second phase when compared to first phase suggests that some measures to improve the productivity of labour have yielded positive results. There are some more options to increase its productivity through improvement.\r\nin land quality by watershed management, modernizing irrigation, increasing area under HYV and increasing capital formation in agriculture (Acharya 1992).\r\nThe land use index recorded a low growth rate of 0.15 per cent per annum which is quite obvious keeping in view the limited availability of land for further cultivation. The small increase in area appeared to be by way of bringing under cultivation more of marginal and sub- marginal land. The trend in the growth rates of land use indices in the different agro-climatic zones and the state as a whole declined over the study period except in the central dry and coastal zones. These two zones recorded higher growth rates in the second phase as compared to the first phase which is contrary to the one observed in other eight zones. Land productivity index recorded a positive growth rate (0.23 per cent) during the study period. Land productivity during the first phase was almost stagnant (0.04 per cent). However, it increased marginally (0.55 per cent) during the second phase implying that farmers have made efforts to improve the productivity of land through various measures such as soil and water conservation management. However, the land productivity indices have shown positive growth rates for all the zones during the entire period. In general, the land productivity indices were higher in the second phase when compared to the first phase indicating a trend towards efficient use of land in crop production.\r\nThe declining growth rate in land use index is understandably true because of limited scope for area expansion under crops. From this kind of results, it could be inferred that technology change has generated productivity growth, even if it is not substantial by reduced input level and by promoting output growth (Thirtle, 1992). Further, it clearly shows that production cannot be area led in future but has to be productivity led through the increased cropping intensity.\r\nGrowth rates in other input use indices. The use of material inputs recorded a growth rate of 0.65 per cent per annum during the second phase. The increased use of material inputs may be attributed to increased area under irrigation which recorded a growth rate of 4.79 per cent per annum. The pattern in the use of energy as measured in terms of an index was high (0.79 per cent) during the second phase mainly due to the growth in number of irrigation pump sets energized and increased purchase of tractors and diesel engines. A steep rise in fuel and electricity charges has also contributed to the growth in the index since all the items in arriving at the index are considered in value terms. The capital use index recorded a higher rate of growth (0.91 per cent per annum) when compared to material input use index. A high rate of replacement of agricultural machinery, equipments, buildings and bullock labour appear to be the main reason for a higher level of capital use index. The observed 9.85 per cent increase in crop output may be attributed to positive and relatively higher growth rates observed in the use of the material input, energy and the capital. On the labour and land use which accounted for more than 80 per cent of the cost recorded a declining trend. This indicateda trend towards substitution of labour and land by mechanical and bio-chemical inputs in Odisha\'s agriculture. A similar explanation was given by Thirtle and Bottomley (1992) for the growth of agriculture in U.K. The growth rates for indices of material inputs, energy consumption and capital use recorded lower values in the first phase when compared to the second phase. The variation among different zones in the use of the above inputs is related to differential quantum of area under irrigation and rainfall pattern. The growth rates were generally lower in high and medium rainfall areas of Mid Central Table Land and Western Central table land. Whereas, the arid and semi-arid tracts have recorded higher growth rates. The increased consumption of diesel oil and electricity to exploit groundwater, especially in the dry land areas has resulted in the growth of energy consumption in agriculture. The increased growth in capital use may be attributed to the continuous adoption of improved technology. The higher growth rates recorded in the use of material inputs, energy consumption and capital use should be interpreted with caution since it is not only due to higher level of input use in quantity terms but also due to increased prices. This is particularly so since the prices paid have been taken into consideration in arriving at the value which are further used in the construction of indices. In general, the use of labour, material inputs, energy and capital have recorded high growth rates during the second phase when compared to the first phase. On the contrary, land use registered high rates of growth for the zones and the state as a whole during the first phase than in the second phase. This indicated the intensification of variable inputs vis-a-vis the fixed inputs like land in agriculture. The average annual growth rates for output produced and input used were higher in the second phase when compared to the first phase. Unlike the first phase, output performed better than the input use during the second phase resulting in a positive growth in TFP. However, it has to be mentioned here that aggregate outputs have not changed appreciably from the first phase to second phase.\r\n','Kiran L. Kadam, S.N. Mishra, R.K. Mishra, B.P. Mohapatra and P.N. Pradhan (2022). Factor Productivity and Technical Change in Odisha’s Agriculture: A Spatial and temporal analysis. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 14(2): 1175-1189.'),(5028,'125','Different Methods of Nano-magnesium Synthesis: A Future Fertilizer Source','Akshay Kumar Kurdekar*, Jayadeva H.M., Sandeep S.N., T. Gangadhara, Vinay Kumar, M.I. and P. Laxman Rao','204 Different Methods of Nano-magnesium Synthesis A Future Fertilizer Source Akshay Kumar Kurdekar.pdf','',1,'Nano magnesium has a wide range of applications due to its unique properties. Various chemical (bottom-up) and physical (top-down) approaches can be used to make nano structured Magnesium. Depending on the reaction conditions, basic starting materials or concentrations, desired result (e.g., band gap, crystallite size and shape) can be obtained. Magnesium nano particles are potentially of interest not only because of their unique material properties, but also because of their low toxicity and environmental friendliness, they can be used in a wide range of medical and biotechnological applications. Current trends indicate a significant increase in interest in green synthesis of nano particles but challenging task here is to maintain the size of synthesized nano particles. Since the focus is on shape, it is possible to synthesize MgO in a variety of ways. The most common structures are particle-like, but rod-like, flat-like, and tubular structures are also found.','Magnesium nano particles, bottom-up, top-down and green synthesis','Scientist have developed different methods of synthesis of Nano magnesium particles but to what extent that synthesized particles can be utilized as fertilizer source is matter of research. Physical and chemical method of synthesizing the particles is easy but during the synthesizing process it release various hazardous chemicals into the environment hence it is better to go with green synthesis approach. As magnesium is one of the most important micronutrient required for growth and development of plant shifting from the conventional magnesium fertilizer to Nano magnesium fertilizer can be an approach to attain potential yield.','INTRODUCTION\r\nNanotechnology will have a significant impact on our country\'s overall development. Nanotechnology is the fabrication, manipulation, and application of submicron objects, particularly those between 1 and 100 nanometers in size. Nanotechnology will allow for the production of high-quality products at a low cost and in a short amount of time. It is commonly referred to as a generic technology that provides better-built, safer, longer-lasting, low-cost, and smart products for use in the home, communications, medicine, agriculture, and the food industry, among other applications. Excessive use of conventional fertilizers in modern agriculture has resulted in several serious issues such as soil degradation, loss of soil organic matter and carbon content, and increased soil compaction. To overcome this problem use of nano fertilizers would be the solutions. But among various chemical, physical and biological methods of synthesis, green method for synthesizing nanoparticles with plant extracts is simple, convenient, environment friendly and require less reaction time. Nanomaterials made using eco - friendly green synthesis method have the potential to improve agriculture\'s fertilization process. Furthermore, they reduce the amount of harmful chemicals released into the environment. As a result, this technology aids in the reduction of environmental pollutants, resulting in a more sustainable approach.\r\nMagnesium is a key component of chlorophyll, which helps plants absorb light during photosynthesis. Magnesium is necessary for phosphate metabolism and acts as a phosphorus carrier in plants. Photosynthesis, as the central process for crop production, is influenced by the Mg status of the plant in several ways. High light interception by the light harvesting complexes (LHCs) attached to photosystems I and II is required for efficient carbohydrate formation (PSI, PSII). Use of Nano magnesium fertilizers instead of conventional fertilizers has additional advantages because of its unique physicochemical behaviors such as outstanding refractive index, economically feasible with high surface are resulting in greater advantages. Among the chemical, physical and biological methods of synthesis of nano magnesium particles the biological approach would be ecofriendly and easy to synthesize the particles. Hence this review help us to find the best method in synthesizing the nano magnesium particles that can be used as a fertilizer source or other applications.\r\nDifferent methods of synthesis of nano magnesium fertilizer \r\n• There are mainly two method of synthesis of nano particles mainly the bottom up approach and top down approach \r\n1. Bottom-up approach\r\n• A bottom-up approach is when a material is built up from the ground up, atom by atom, molecule by molecule, or cluster by cluster.\r\n• Assembling nanomaterials atom-by-atom or molecule-by-molecule (self-assembling) \r\n• This aims to combine smaller components into larger assemblies. \r\n• The bottom-up approach has the advantage of obtaining nanostructures with fewer defects and more uniform chemical compositions.\r\n2. Top-down approach\r\n• Slicing or successive cutting of a bulk material to obtain nano-sized particles is referred to as a top down approach.\r\n• Breaking down larger materials physically or chemically to create nanoscale materials\r\n•These aim to make smaller devices by directing the assembly of larger ones.\r\nPhysical method of synthesis Nano magnesium particles. Physical methods generate magnesium nanoparticles by causing material abrasion, melting, evaporation, or condensation with mechanical pressure, high-energy radiations, thermal energy, or electrical energy. These methods are advantageous because they produce uniform monodisperse nanoparticles and are based on a top-down strategy. Different physical method of synthesis such as ball milling, physical vapour deposition, molecular beam epitaxy, sputtering, laser ablation, electric arc deposition, etching, lithography among these few references are reported. Praditaet al., 2017 reported that synthesis of Nano magnesium can be done using spray pyrolysis using precursor as Mg(NO3)2.6H2O. Han Wang et al., 2015 reported that magnesium nanowires were prepared at 703 oK for 30 min in a high vacuum level of 104 Pa by physical vapor deposition method. For the preparation of nanoparticles, laser ablation in liquid has been considered an appealing technique. Tran X. Phuoc et al., 2008 studied that synthesis of Mg(OH)2, MgO, and Mg nanoparticles using laser ablation of magnesium in water and solvents and reported that particles were about 20–30 nm and particles with rod-like, triangular, and plate-like shapes were also observed.\r\nChemical methods of synthesis of Nano magenesium particles. Different chemical methods followed in synthesis of Mg nanoparticles such as microemulsion technique, sol–gel method, temperature assisted synthesis polyol synthesis, hydrothermal synthesis, chemical vapour synthesis and plasma enhanced chemical vapour deposition technique are some of the most commonly used chemical methods for the synthesis of Mg nanoparticles. Tamilselvi et al., 2021 reported that Magnesium oxide nanoparticles can be synthesized by employing a simple sol-gel method using angelating agent using magnesium nitrate [Mg (NO3)] as precursor the average size of the synthesized nanoparticles is 12 nm. Microwave-assisted synthesis of Mg nanoparticles is another chemical method which is widely used. This method promotes uniform dispersion of small molecules and is both cost-effective and environmentally friendly. Gajengi et al. (2017) studied microwave mediated synthesis in the presence of benzylamine, which forms an intermediated complex of Mg(OH)2 due to the reducing agent\'s action. Selvam et al., (2011) synthesized microwave-promoted MgO nanoparticles in the presence of urea. They also studied that microwave mediated synthesis is less energy consuming than the traditional combustion synthesis method. Pei et al., 2010 reported low temperature assisted synthesis is easy and environmentally friendly approach of synthesis of Mg nanoparticles which can be used as fertilizer sources. Furthermore, Shimpi et al. (2009) reported synthesis of Mg nanoparticles using hydrothermal method at low temperature (155°C) is easy and synthesized particles were spherical in shape.\r\nBiosynthesis of Nano magnesium particles. For the past decade, scientists have been interested in producing Mg nanoparticles using biological methods. The use of fewer chemicals, cost-effectiveness, and environmental friendliness have all played a role in the evolution and importance of this field. Traditional chemical or physical methods of nanoparticle synthesis are less convenient, less cost-effective, and less environmentally friendly than green synthesis as reported by Das et al. (2017). Plants, bacteria, fungus, and algae are some of the biological substrates that are commonly used instead of chemical solvents and stabilisers to reduce the product\'s toxicity. In Biosynthesis approach the substrate used is either microorganism or plant extract. Plants are the most common biological substrate for Mg nanoparticles because they are cost-effective, environmentally friendly, easy to process, handle, and safer than microorganisms. Bandeira et al. (2020) reported that plant extracts acquired from various parts of the plants including root, bark, leaves, flowers, fruit pulp, peels etc. are used for synthesizing Mg nanoparticles. Singh et al. (2019) have reported that the biomolecules present in the plant extract are considered responsible for the reduction of of Mg2+ ions to Mg0 valency state.\r\n','Akshay Kumar Kurdekar, Jayadeva H.M., Sandeep S.N., T. Gangadhara, Vinay Kumar, M.I. and P. Laxman Rao (2022). Different Methods of Nano-magnesium Synthesis: A Future Fertilizer Source. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 14(2): 1190-1193.'),(5029,'125','Production of Biofuel using Diatoms: An Overview','Th. Ranabir Singha, Swati Singh, Gurgaganveer Singh Chahal, Gadikota Krishna Vamsi and Umesh Goutam*\r\n','205 Production of Biofuel using Diatoms An Overview Umesh Goutam.pdf','',1,'Diatoms belong to the class of microalgae which are ubiquitous across the planet. The unique property and application that draws the attention of scientists towards the diatoms is their ability to produce and store lipid in their body, which makes them a perfect candidate in the sector of bio-fuel industry. It is also very important to know and study the mechanism of the lipid production ability of diatoms which will eventually pave the way in the synthesis and production of lipid content. Bio-fuel produced from diatoms will eventually boost the clean energy sector and it will elevate the green economy. The biofuel produced from diatoms comes under the category of third generation bio-fuel. Although there are a lot of challenges regarding diatoms as they need to prove their mantle as an alternative to fossil fuel, because the quantum of energy produced by fossil fuel is huge, but in recent times diatoms has given a ray of hope in the sector of energy concerning sustainable development. This review mainly discusses about the applications of diatoms, the mechanism and process by which it synthesizes lipid content in their body and eventually its role in clean energy sector and green economy.','Diatoms, bio-fuel, clean energy, green economy','Diatoms play a pivotal role in the bio-geo chemical cycling of the marine and fresh water ecosystem. The remarkable fact about diatoms is that it can be cultured very easily with minimal resources and in quick time, that is harvesting diatoms is very economic as well as time saving. From the ecological perspective also, the role of diatoms is note-worthy as it produces quarter of the total net primary productivity of the entire globe. Out of the many applications of diatoms, its drug delivery application is quite remarkable as it has embarked a new horizon in the avenue of precision medicine. Its unique role in the sector of clean energy is setting new standards in the bio-fuel industry and green economy. The property of diatoms to synthesize and store lipid in them is the crown jewel of all the properties it possesses. The most important aspect of study of diatoms is from the environmental aspect as it has given a glimpse of hope in context of the rapid depletion in the fossil fuels. The bio-fuel produced from diatoms is environment friendly and it can be a potential alternative to fossil fuels.','INTRODUCTION\r\nDiatoms belong to the class of microalgae and they are present across all aquatic ecosystems encompassing from marine to fresh water ecosystems. Marine diatoms’ community composition is done on the basis of phosphate present on surface layer of diatoms and also on the basis of salinity (Endo et al., 2018). Generally diatoms are categorized into two classes viz. centric diatoms (which display radiate symmetry) and pinnate diatoms (which display binary symmetry) (Hussein & Abdullah 2020). The silicified cell walls present in diatoms act as a defense shield for the diatoms and also it provides structural support to the diatoms. This silicified cell wall present in diatoms varies across species and this depends upon the degree of predation of the predators that depend on diatoms for their food (Pančić et al., 2019). There is a remarkable divergence in the photosynthetic pigments of diatoms which is a result of various factors like light exposure of diatoms based upon seasonal duration like long term and short-term light exposure, variable water column arising in different aquatic ecosystems as well as heat and nutrient gradient (Fisher et al., 2020). Diatoms also play a pivotal role in the bio cycling of various nutrients and also it act as bio indicators in various aquatic ecosystems and simultaneously diatoms aid in the process of purification of contaminated water (Gügi et al., 2015). From the studies of photosynthetic mechanism of diatoms, it was observed and studied that the assembly and the setup of the light harvesting complex (LHC) proteins in diatoms is quite different from that of higher plants, interestingly in case of diatoms, the complex via which light is harvested in diatoms is from fucoxanthin chlorophyll protein (FCP) rather than that of light harvesting complex (LHC) (Kuczynska et al., 2015). The genome of diatoms is very complex which is responsible for encoding different pathways in diatoms viz. non canonical, nitrogen assimilation, managing different types of metabolites, urea cycle etc., (Benoiston et al., 2017). Diatoms which are found in the benthic zone of deep oceans where penetration of light is negligible, happens to produce many anti fouling compounds specially of terpenoid derivatives and these terpenoid compounds are reported to be anti-microbial in nature and can act on various bacteria and fungi (Saha et al., 2018). The silica layer of diatoms is associated with Cenozoic era, as there was a competition between the present-day marine diatoms versus radiolarians (protozoa), the competition was reported to be inter specific in nature (Cermeño et al., 2015). Majority of the diatoms come under nano phytoplankton (2-20 micro meter) and rest comes under pico phytoplankton (less than 2 micro meter), which makes the study and characterization of diatoms very cumbersome, as for oceanic study models, organisms of at least size greater than 20 micro meters are required, for this reason only in order to study diatoms in aquatic ecosystem, support of large spring blooms of diatoms are required(Leblanc et al., 2018). The trauma of diatoms is the zoosporic parasites as they infect the diatoms regardless of whichever ecosystem the diatoms are habitat to, moreover the identification and characterization of these zoosporic parasites are very cumbersome, hence making it vulnerable for diatoms (Scholz et al., 2016).The major advantage of analyzing the diatoms is that they have the capability to produce bi-products of varied applications, other than producing primary products like bio-fuel and bio-hydrogen, however the major challenge in the production of bio-fuel from diatoms is the numerous steps of purification involved in generating the final product (Sivaramakrishnan et al., 2022).\r\nAPPLICATIONS OF DIATOMS IN DIFFERENT FIELDS\r\nDiatoms are ubiquitous, and being single-celled eukaryotic microalgal species gives them an advantage over all other photosynthetic organisms, making it an appealing living being for a wide range of applications, including ecological ones, as they are a crucial component of the food web in ocean environment and provide food for several life forms (Hildebrand, 2008). Additionally, diatoms drive the silicon cycle and undoubtedly contribute towards the nitrogen pool (25–30%), especially in large bodies of water like the deep seas (Serôdio & Lavaud, 2020). These phytoplanktons account for more than a quarter of the world\'s total primary production, and over forty percent of it if only the maritime ecosystem is considered. They also create a significant amount of oxygen as well as play a frequent role in carbon fixation (about 20%) (Serôdio & Lavaud 2020). As a result, diatoms are important for ecological maintenance because they supply carbon to a variety of organisms. Diatoms do have wide range of applications in different domains, including microbiological and nanotechnological fields, notably evidenced by ongoing research. Looking at current developments, there seem to be a variety of domains of life sciences where diatom studies is ongoing and highly valued, including bioengineering, nanotechnology, metabolomics, and indeed the modern fuel industry is showing great interest in this organism owing to its lipid synthesizing capabilities which can be exploited for bio-fuels (Bongale & Gautam 2012).\r\nThus, diatoms have a wide range of uses contrasted to other microalgae. \r\nDrug delivery vehicles – Most cancer therapies, notably the most often used one i.e., chemotherapy, destroy tumor cells while simultaneously causing severe harm to normal body cells, resulting in adverse complications in patients. Methods to deliver medications exclusively to specific cancer cells have been developed in order to limit these negative effects (Aw et al., 2012). Researchers have had some success using silica-based nanomaterials in this area, but the manufacturing method is costly and requires harmful chemicals. Diatoms are emerging as a promising replacement for costlier synthetic silicon nanoparticles, and latest research demonstrated that Thalassiosira pseudonana species of diatom, can be genetically modified to exhibit antibody binding capacity, allowing it to convey drug-loaded silica-based nanoparticles to selectively targeted cells while leaving healthy cells out of the equation, which is revolutionary in the cancer field (Delalat et al., 2015).\r\nEnvironmental pollution indicators – Most of the species of diatoms are sensitive to the chemistry of the water in which they reside. Species will only thrive in specific pH and salt concentration ranges. Numerous environmental factors, such as nutrient content, floating debris, altitude, and various forms of human interference can also impact their growth and reproduction (Beyene et al., 2009). Resultantly, diatoms are commonly used in environmental evaluation and monitoring. Furthermore, because they constitute a major source of carbon fixation on a worldwide scale, they are closely tied to climatic change in the form of acidification etc. (Battarbee et al., 2014; Park et al., 2020).\r\nPalaeoecological studies – Diatoms in seawater and freshwater sediments could be utilized to evaluate historical circumstances because their silicon containing cell walls do not dissolve even in tough and hostile settings (Zalat, 1995). Since their valves are retained in such environments, both live and subfossil diatoms are used in this technique. Living cells are used by experts to learn about the external factors that affect newer existence and abundance (Battarbee et al., 2014).\r\nBiotechnological uses – They are utilized in industrial settings to manufacture a range of metabolites, including vital lipids, amino acids, medications, and nutritional supplements, all of which are highly popular these days (Park et al., 2022). The creation of biosensing devices, which employs diatom frustules, is another area that is significantly expanding the future possibilities of these phytoplanktons. The optical characteristics of diatom frustules can aid biosensor development in a variety of domains (Bongale & Gautam, 2012).\r\nNanotechnology field – Diatom cells produce valves of variety of shapes and sizes in a consistent and reliable manner, effectively allowing them to produce micro-scale or even nano-scale frameworks that could be used in a multitude of devices varying from optoelectronic devices to semiconductor nanofabrication (Mishra et al., 2017). Moreover, effective artificial selection processes can open the way for diatoms that manufacture valves of certain shapes and sizes to be chosen and cultured in laboratories to produce nanoscale materials in surplus (Korsunsky et al., 2020).\r\nSolar energy – By replacing photosensitive TiO2 for the SiO2 that diatoms ordinarily utilize to build their cell walls, diatoms might be included as a material of photovoltaic modules. There have already been proposals for solar cells consisting of diatom components (Fuhrmann et al., 2004). The naturally existing diatom shell, that comprises of two irregular ends with a split among them and encompasses many naturally present nm size pores throughout, was primarily used in this innovative diatom-based procedure to construct photovoltaic panels that could be up to three times as effective as traditional solar cells. To create novel dye-sensitized solar panels and nano-structured battery electrodes, these small holes can be utilized to incorporate additional metal oxide compounds like Ti or Ge dioxide (Fuhrmann et al., 2004).\r\nBio-fuel production – Diatoms have already been mass produced in outdoor settings for purposes other than biofuel production, such as aquaculture, for many years. Algal biomass efficiency has been measured at a broad range of levels, which can be attributable to differences in cultivation circumstances. Factors of consideration include the light source and its intensity, mixing rate, pH, and essential nutrients. The content of triacylglycerol (TAG) grows when levels of chlorophyll diminish (symbolizing the beginning of the bloom\'s death), according to research (Mourya et al., 2022). TAG accumulation happens prior to cell death in a biofuels production scenario, so damaging would not have much impact on the production(Hildebrand et al., 2012). As a result, it makes sense to utilize them in the biofuel sector which will assist to clean up and green our environment.\r\nThe flow chart below shows all of the relevant industries in which they\'ve been employed for different products (Fig. 1).\r\nHence, it\'s indeed easy to conclude that these phytoplanktons not only play important roles in all aspects of life, but they also play a critical role in maintaining the planet\'s ecological stability (Hildebrand, 2008). Diatoms are distinguished out of other species by their silicon containing cellular membrane, which makes it a perfect candidate for widening applications; ranging from nanoscale-particles generation to delivery systems for drugs; industry-based applications to biomedical values (Bongale & Gautam 2012). They\'re multipurpose in nature. Of all the applications discussed above, the production of bio-fuel from diatoms is the need of the hour. In recent times, apart from synthesizing and harnessing the lipid produced from diatoms, a lot of work is done on improving and enhancing the lipid content in diatoms using various chemical and biotechnological methods. In chemical method, nitrogen deprivation in diatoms to elevate the lipid content is worth mentioning. In biotechnological method, using CRISPR, gene editing of lipid producing genes in diatoms can be done to increase the lipid content (Chen et al., 2022).\r\nMOLECULAR MECHANISM FOR LIPID SYNTHESIS IN DIATOMS\r\nThe amount of information available regarding lipogenesis and its metabolism in diatoms is currently quite restricted, and much more study is needed in this area. If contrasted to flora, fauna, or phytoplankton, diatoms\' lipid metabolism is strikingly comparable to them (especially in the synthesis of fatty acids) (Zulu et al., 2018). Thus, the underlying mechanisms for lipid synthesis in diatoms will be explained using some knowledge of such pathways involved in case of angiosperms and microalgae (Khozin-Goldberg, 2016). Diatoms, like flowering plants, contain both eukaryotic as well as prokaryotic lipid production routes.\r\nTriacylglycerol (TAG) would be the main emphasis because it is the most prevalent lipid in the cells of several microalgal species and perhaps the most important component when discussing biofuels among all the other lipids existing in the microalgae. Ergo, TAGs are indeed the primary lipid constituents utilized in the production of renewable fuels, and it\'s essential to comprehend the TAG biosynthesis process in diatoms in order to employ them as an economical biofuel contributor in the future (Mourya et al., 2022). The production process of TAG is divided into three basic phases, each of which is controlled separately viz. i) Fatty acid (FA) biogenesis, ii) Glycerol-lipids creation, iii) Packaging into lipid droplets (LDs)\r\nIn diatoms, fatty acid production is comparable to that in angiosperms i.e., acetyl-CoA serves as a precursor molecule in Bacillariophyceae as well. In eukaryotes, acetyl-CoA is produced in mitochondria, peroxisomes, and plastids cellular organelles (Baba & Shiraiwa, 2013). In case of plastids, acetyl-CoA can be formed from unbound acetic acid in an ATP-dependent mechanism mediated by acetyl-CoA synthetase, or removal of carboxyl group from pyruvate, catalyzed by a pyruvate dehydrogenase complex (present in plastids) could also result in the production of acetyl-CoA (Jaramillo-Madrid et al., 2019). ATP-citrate lysate, that uses citric acid (generated from the TCA cycle) as a substrate, builds the mitochondrial reserve of acetyl-CoA in the cytoplasm. Numerous enzyme complexes are involved in this procedure, which comprises several phases (Chen & Wang 2021). First of all, acetyl-CoA carboxylase (ACCase) enzyme catalyzes the conversion of acetyl-CoA into malonyl-CoA and the aforementioned process is driven by an ATP-dependent carboxylation of the precursor molecule itself which in this case is acetyl-CoA (Zulu et al., 2018). The FA synthase complex also known as FAS complex catalyzes another few stages of FA synthesis within plastids, which include serial condensation of two-carbon units. This FAS complex is comprised of two main classes of FAS and these are - FAS I and FAS II. FAS II complexes can be found in both prokaryotic cells and in organelles considered to be prokaryotic in nature such as mitochondria and plastids(Guerra et al., 2013). As a result, FAS II is the primary FAs source in diatom plastids. This consists of four enzyme processes, all of which adds two carbon atoms to the expanding acyl chain, while malonyl-ACP serves as the reaction\'s substrate. Ketoacyl-ACP synthases (KAS) catalyze the above processes, which result in 16:0-ACP synthesis in diatoms(Zhu et al., 2011). The elimination of the acyl group from ACP and transfer of the same to glycerol-3-phosphate by acyl-ACP:G-3-P acyltransferase enzyme (in plastids) is by far the most critical element in the synthesis of active FAs. FA biosynthesis comes to an end at this step. However, it is hypothesized that another reaction occurs, namely the hydrolysis of acyl-ACP catalyzed by an acyl-ACP thioesterase, resulting in the synthesis of free FAs in the plastid\'s internal envelope but this has yet to be experimentally shown, therefore research is still ongoing (Liu & Benning, 2013). FFAs can then be transferred via the membranes of the plastids and utilized as TAG substrates. Furthermore, the process by which FAs in diatoms are transported from the plastid is unclear.\r\nTAG formation in diatoms appears to be particularly happening via two distinct processes at the endoplasmic reticulum/lipid droplet interface. They are, i) Acyl-CoA-dependent pathway, ii) Acyl-CoA-independent pathway\r\nIn these phytoplanktons, the former pathway, otherwise referred as the Kennedy pathway, is the primary route for TAG creation(Zulu et al., 2018). The addition of acyl group to glycerol-3-phosphate (G-3-P) and production of lysophosphatidic acid (LPA) are the first events inside this pathway, which are catalyzed by the enzymatic activity of acyl-CoA:glycerol-3-phosphate acyltransferase. Phosphatidic acid (PA) can then be synthesized via the use of acyl-CoA:LPA acyltransferase. Phosphatidic acid phosphatase (PAP) dephosphorylates the PA generated, resulting in diacylglycerol (DAG) (Chen & Wang, 2021). This DAG is transformed to TAG by integrating the third acyl-CoA, this step is aided by acyl-CoA:DAG acyltransferase, and this is termed as the last stage of acylation. Similarly, a route from G-3-P to DAG has been identified in chloroplasts; however, whether DAG generated in chloroplasts adds value to TAG production has yet to be determined, and research is still in progress in this particular aspect (Guerra et al., 2013). \r\nWhile, in the latter pathway, for the synthesis of TAG from DAG, phosphatidylcholine (PC) acts as an acyl donor and phospholipid:DAG acyltransferases (PDATs) uses it and catalyzes the reaction (Jaramillo-Madrid et al., 2019). Ultimately, TAG is organized into LDs, that have a uniform design throughout all kingdoms and comprise of a phospholipid monolayer along with a hydrophobic core where neutral lipids (typically TAGs) are contained (Leyland et al., 2020). This is the whole mechanism of lipid biosynthesis in diatoms and the potential of use of diatom manufactured lipids in the biofuel industry is huge and it will be utilized in recent years.\r\nROLE OF DIATOMS IN BIO-FUEL INDUSTRY AND GREEN ECONOMY\r\nQuick development and industrialization ought to affect the environment; generally closing or going slower in globalization isn\'t the result. Right now, practically 95% about the total conveyance manufacturers, rest upon a non-inexhaustible origin of power (Rodrigue & Notteboom, 2013). With collective facts and figures on genomic plus transcriptome records being assimilated, there is a lot of extensive advancement in explanation of various parts about the diatom isoprenoid bio- combination (Keeling et al., 2014). It is presently conceivable to constantly develop diatoms as well as control the existence based on intrusive genus devoid of biochemical substance at a normal yearly produce of 132 MT dried diatoms ha−1 above a time based on right around 5 centuries, despite these facts keeping up with the dominancy of the ideal diatom breed at a cyclical premise (Wang & Seibert 2017). The third-era bio-fuels depend on enhancements in the improvement of biomass. They rely on uniquely designed energy harvests, for example, green growth as their energy source (Mourya et al., 2022). Regardless of being a discernable strategy, the diatom trial has controls moreover. One of these significant concerns is the occurrence of diatoms in a immerse environment. The non-appearance or fewer occurrences of diatoms now in a marine group could prompt misleading affirmative or else adverse outcome. The manifestation of diatoms from various layers (water bed rock, further, in addition to shallow) of the marine group likewise could be fluctuated (Levkov et al., 2017). Fast demise, what is going on where the diatom trial can be off-base. Moment demise when a creature or humanoid enters the water body for different causes, for example, frosty shock and cardiovascular illnesses will give an adverse outcome in the diatom trial (Smol & Stoermer 2010).\r\n \r\nComplete ignition of biofuel happens giving it a cleaner consume. Their quick development rate prompts the high per section of land yield, which remains 7-31 times additional noticeable than each resulting finest yield, palm lubricant. Their high photosynthetic proficiency, more straightforward handling steps, quick development rate, yearly biomass usefulness, constant all year creation makes them a preferred option over the global yields (Levitan et al., 2014). The potential role and applications of diatoms in green economy is shown in the figure below (Fig. 2).','Th. Ranabir Singha, Swati Singh,Gurgaganveer Singh Chahal, Gadikota Krishna Vamsi and Umesh Goutam (2022). Production of Biofuel using Diatoms: An Overview. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 14(2): 1194-1200.'),(5030,'125','Prevalence and Variation of Viviparous Germination in Tagetes erecta L. (Asteraceae) in Island’s Ecosystem','V. Baskaran*, K. Abirami, K. Venkatesan and Augustine B. Jerard','206 Prevalence and Variation of Viviparous Germination in Tagetes erecta L. _Asteraceae_ in Island’s Ecosystem V. Baskaran.pdf','',1,'Tagetes erecta L. is the most important and versatile commercial flowering plant and belongs to the family Asteraceae. The germination of viviparous seeds occurs while they are still attached to the mother plant (precocious germination), a relatively unusual phenomenon in angiosperms. True vivipary is reported mostly in mangroves and is a very rare phenomenon in Asteraceae. This vivipary is advantageous by disseminating offspring in time and space by which it evolved as a mechanism to provide a more efficient germination and survival means. In this study, we present the first observation of the rare phenomenon of ‘vivipary’ in local marigold accessions at Island ecosystem. The results of the study showed that the range and mean value of number of viviparous seedlings capitutlam-1, number of non-germinated and total seeds capitutlam-1 varied from (31.0 to 84 and 58.3), (52.0 to 167.0 and 113.9) and (118.0 to 230.0 and 172.2), respectively. In case of % viviparous germination, it ranged from 19.3 to 56.7 with mean value of 35.9. Viviparous germination was observed in disc florets of the capitulum and autochory of few viviparous seedlings were observed. The occurrence of this rare vivipary was observed during monsoon season and hence it may be believed that it is a physiological response to the environmental condition and also due to inherent genetic character as it was observed only in local accessions of marigold. ','Asteraceae, marigold, vivipary, Island','It can be concluded that vivipary is a trait of evolutionary, physiological and biological significance and its occurrence in different members of Asteraceae may be studied. This viviparous trait confers fitness advantages by disseminating offspring in time and space by which it evolved as a mechanism to provide a more efficient germination and survival means. Its better survival observed under poly-house study could provide an opportunity for more multiplication of the species which has to be studied in detail. ','INTRODUCTION\r\nVivipary is the precocious phenomenon found in flowering plants where seeds germinate within a closed fruit and continue its development into a seedling still attached to the parent plant (Goebel, 1905, Carey, 1934, Elmqvist and Cox 1996, Farnsworth, 2000; Singh and Murugan 2013). Formation of a seed and growth of sexually generated embryo are integral to the viviparous process (Farnsworth, 2000) and is regulated by phytohormones that simultaneously control the responses of seedlings and mature plants to environmental changes, in addition to seed physiology (Farnsworth, 2004). Till date, vivipary has been documented in 195 plant species that include 78 families and 143 genera (Farnsworth, 2000). Occurrence of vivipary in flowering plants is a potential reproduction strategy rather than precocious germination process (Farnsworth 2000, Cota-Sanchez 2004) and also in island’s ecosystem (Singh and Murugan 2013). Chauhan et al. (2018) reported from Uttarakhand (India) that it is a rare and unique reproductive mechanism in plants and may be a strategic resource for survival in the endangered Saussurea lappa (Decne.) Sch. Bip., an important medicinal and aromatic crop of Asteraceae family. The occurrence of vivipary in non-mangrove plant, Hibiscus cannabinus L. (Kenaf) of Malvaceae from Andaman and Nicobar Islands has been described for the first time by Singh and Murugan (2013). We here describe prevalence and variation of viviparous germination in marigold, Tagetes erecta L. from Andaman and Nicobar Islands, a well-known geographical region for its richest and unique plant diversity with high endemism in India (Singh et al. 2014; Singh et al. 2020). \r\nTagetes erecta L. is the most important and versatile commercial flowering plant belongs to the family, Asteraceae. This flower crop is even highly suitable to grow in aquaponic production system (Mohapatra et al., 2021). Nationally, marigold is grown in large scale for commercial cultivation because of its mutil-faceted utilities (Sharma et al., 2022). It is a most popular loose flower in Andaman and Nicobar Islands because of its year round demand, easy cultivation, wide adaptability and ability to withstand adverse climatic conditions like high rainfall and humidity. This Island has tropical humid equatorial climate with annual rainfall of 3200–3500 mm, 80–85% relative humidity and less diurnal variation. Due to cultural ethnic diversity, the consumption demand exists in throughout year for both loose and cut flowers in Islands. About 90% of the flower requirement is met by the import of flowers from mainland Indian states. Marigold holds major share among the loose flowers imported. It is cultivated in the Islands about 37.23 ha area with production of 31.05 mt. Marigold varieties viz., Siracole, Pusa Basanti Gainda, Pusa Narangi Gainda and other private sector hybrids grown on a small scale by Island farmers and is also grown in homestead gardens as well as an intercrop in plantation based cropping system.\r\nMATERIALS AND METHODS\r\nExploration trips were made during 2018 for collection of marigold from across Andaman and Nicobar Islands. Nine accessions were collected from different areas of South Andaman and North & Middle Andaman districts and planted at Horticulture farm, ICAR-Central Island Agricultural Research Institute (ICAR-CIARI), Port Blair. They were evaluated from 2018 onwards for better flower yield. Arare phenomenon of precocious germination ‘vivipary’ was observed in few collected local accessions and the data on them were recorded in 10 samples for the traits viz., number of viviparous seedlings capitulam-1, length of seedlings/ radicles and number of roots seedling-1 including their survival under shade/ poly-house/ room temperature. Viviparous seedlings were separated from the capitulum planted in protrays (30 cells per tray) and were placed in different growing conditions like polyhouse, shade house and at room condition for assessing growth performance. Data were analysed for range of variation along with weather parameters for the period.\r\nRESULTS AND DISCUSSION\r\nLocal marigold accessions with vigorous growth and prolonged flowering than popular introduced varieties were noticed during exploration trip across Islands. Among them, three best performing genotypes from South Andaman were identified after two years (2018–2020) of evaluation at Horticulture farm, ICAR-Central Island Agricultural Research Institute (ICAR-CIARI), Port Blair with characteristic flower colour as yellow, sulphur yellow and orange one along with more flower yield. It can be highly amenable for year round cultivation through vegetative propagation to maintain the true-to-type of parental genotype. While marigold evaluation at farm, ‘vivipary’ a rare phenomenon of precocious germination was observed only in selected local accessions during late monsoon months of August to October when flowers have already matured well (Fig. 1). However, viviparous germination was also noticed at flowering well before petal drying. Data on number of viviparous seedlings capitulam-1 and their survival under shade/ poly-house/ room temperature, length of seedlings/ radicals and number of roots seedling-1 were taken in ten samples and are presented in Table 1.\r\nRange and mean value of number of viviparous seedlings capitutlam-1, number of non-germinated and total seeds capitutlam-1 varied from (31.0 to 84 and 58.3), (52.0 to 167.0 and 113.9) and (118.0 to 230.0 and 172.2), respectively. In case of % viviparous germination, it was ranged from 19.3 to 56.7 with mean value of 35.9 under present study. Length of seedlings (cm) and radicles (cm) varied from 6 to 1.6 and 0.5 to 1.0 with mean value of 1.0 and 0.7, respectively. Seed vigour index varied from 16.6 to 48.8 with mean value of 35.0.\r\nNumber of roots seedling-1 varied from 0.0 to 3.0 with mean value of 0.8. Mean survival of these viviparous seedlings (%) under different conditions viz., shade, poly-house and room condition were observed as 27.4, 62.0 and 3.9, respectively. Comparatively, the mean survival of viviparous seedlings (%) of marigold was better in poly-house condition than under shade condition with least at room condition. Occurrence of vivipary in several members of Asteraceae family reported as follows: Abrotanella linearis Berggr. (Burrows 1994); Acamptopappus (A. Gray) A. Gray. (Young and Young 1992); Ageratina adenophora (Spreng.) R.M. King & H. Rob. (Karmakar and Hazra 2016); Eclipta alba (L.) Hassk. (Bimal et al. 2014); Pachystegia Chessman (Burrows 1994); S. lappa (Decne.) Sch. Bip. (Chauhan et al., 2018); Senecio johnstonii Oliv. subsp. Johnstonii (Leck and Outred 2008); Tagetes erecta L. (Anand and Mathur 2012); Taraxacum officinale L. (Lyman and Ellstrand 1984). Its occurrence in marigold was first reported in Rajouri district of Jammu and Kashmir in India where the seeds inside inflorescence ‘head’ begin to germinate due to over wetness of head by heavy rainfall during June-August, 2012 (Anand and Mathur 2012). As assumed by earlier workers (Anand and Mathur 2012, Majumdar et al., 2004), we are also presuming that the occurrence of vivipary may be involved by both intrinsic and extrinsic factors namely physiology, soil conditions, temperature and dry spells followed by high humidity induced by heavy rainfall. It was evidenced from Island’s weather condition in 2018–2020 that the heavy rainfall along with high relative humidity during June to till August as heavy rainfall in June (645.7mm) followed by dry spells in July (238.1mm), then again heavy rainfall in August (674.8mm) with consistent relative humidity as 84.7 to 87.0% (Fig. 2). Vivipary favoured by excessive atmospheric moisture has also been reported in S. lappa(Chauhanet al. 2018), Trifolium repens L. (Fabaceae) (Deore and Johnson 2008), Jatropha curcas L. (Euphorbiaceae) (Majumdar et al. 2004), and various cacti (Cota-Sanchez et al. 2011). \r\nThough excessive atmospheric moisture and wet condition resulted in premature germination or viviparous germination of seeds in many crops, it also involves the intrinsic factors including genetic characteristics of the genotype could play a main role in determining them. Vivipary has also been induced in maize by application of fluridone which reduced abscicic acid (ABA) levels during seed maturation (Oishi and Bewley 1990). It is an undesirable phenomenon in cereal crops because pre-harvest sprouting leads to low yields and have significant consequences in the agricultural industry and plant conservation (Kermode 2005, Cota-Sanchez 2017). It is also reported as an adverse condition in several crops like coconut (Sankaran et al., 2012), tomato (Cota-Sanchez, 2017), corn (Neill et al., 1987), apple (Mani, 1947) as it affects fruit taste and quality.\r\nVivipary can also be treated as a specialized trait of evolutionary and biological significance as it provides new avenue or advanced feature for survival and also as a mechanism for protecting the embryos from abiotic stress conditions especially drought (Cota-Sanchez 2004; Majumdar et al., 2004; Deore and Johnson 2008). This implies that the viviparous trait confers fitness advantages by disseminating off spring in time and space in new areas of the host plant and other ground substrates, which is in agreement with Cota-Sanchez et al. (2007), who suggested that vivipary evolved as a mechanism to provide a more efficient germination and survival means while contributing to population maintenance and short-distance dispersal. The extraordinary adaptability of seeds to germinate in diverse environments is a good indicator for the commercial propagation of crop (Sharma et al., 2006). It is an intrinsic reproductive mechanism favouring the germination and dispersal of the fittest offspring regardless of substrate and environmental conditions. In general, the presence of pappus (persistent modified calyx) in Asteraceae family helps the cypsela (fruit type) to migrate over different places and also maintain its dispersal once the flower gets maturity.\r\nVivipary in marigold (member of superior family Asteraceae in Angiosperms with diverse species), can be viewed as a new mode of reproduction strategy.\r\n','V. Baskaran, K. Abirami, K. Venkatesan and Augustine B. Jerard (2022). Prevalence and Variation of Viviparous Germination in Tagetes erecta L. (Asteraceae) in Island’s Ecosystem. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 14(2): 1201-1205.'),(5031,'113','Application of Big Data Analytics: Opportunities and Challenges','Muhammad Muhammad Suleiman and Muhammad Bello Aliyu','5 Application of Big Data Analytics Opportunities and Challenges Muhammad Muhammad Suleiman.pdf','',4,'Companies are beginning to see the value of having large amounts of data at their disposal to make the best decisions and achieve their goals. As new technologies, the Internet, and social networks emerge, the volume of digital data continues to grow. In this era, everything around us is continually generating Big data. Big data is coming in at an alarming velocity, volume, and diversity, and it\'s coming from a variety of places. You\'ll need the best processing power, analytical capabilities, and talents to get the most out of big data. Big data has sparked interest in several sectors, including data mining and machine learning. This text aims to discuss the new concept of big data and data analytics, including its concept, technologies, and various types of this innovation that are designed to allow for efficient data mining and information sharing fusion from social media, as well as the new applications and paradigms that fall under the \"umbrella\" of social networks, social networks, and big data concepts. This colossal amount of data arrives from all across the world, daily. Structured, unstructured, and distributed big data are all possibilities. Certain tools and techniques are required to manage large amounts of data. This paper provides an overview of the notion of big data, as well as issues, challenges, and tools and strategies in this domain.','Big Data, Big Data Analytics, Structured & Unstructured Data, MapReduce, Volume','The mechanical world is quickly developing today. Associations of all sizes are feeling the squeeze to be information-driven and to achieve more with less. Regardless of whether large information advances are still in their early stages, the effect of the 3Vs of enormous information, which are currently the 5Vs, can\'t be ignored. The second has come for organizations to begin creating and carrying out their MapReduce or Hadoop-based information lake. Organizations that have the important framework, individuals, and vision are strategically set up to propel their large information procedure and change their organizations. A part of exploration called Data Science has arisen and is developing to manage huge information, work with it, and get benefits from it. Information Science is a discipline of science worried about deducing and investigating information from large assortments of information, the greater part of which are unstructured or semi-organized. Unrest\'s changing the globe and has applications in finance, retail, medical care, assembling, sports, and correspondence. Numerous information researchers are required and will be expected via web search tools and advanced showcasing firms like Google, organizing organizations like Facebook, and monetary and web-based business enterprises like Amazon.','I. INTRODUCTION \r\nThe use of Internet-connected devices aids in the generation of digital data. Cellophane, tablets, and laptops, as a result, communicate information about their owners. The use of everyday objects by consumers is tracked using connected smart objects [1, 2]. Big Data is a data-driven approach enabled by recent technical advances that allow for high-speed data collection, storage, and analysis. Data sources that go outside the standard company database include emails, mobile device outputs, and sensor-generated data. Data is no longer restricted to structured database entries, but rather includes unstructured data that lacks a standard framework [2, 5].\r\nThe three Vs of big data, according to Gartner, are volume, velocity, and variety. Gartner expanded its definition in 2012 to include veracity, which expresses faith and scepticism in data and data analysis outcomes. In a 2012 study, IDC highlighted the 4th V as the value, emphasizing that Big Data applications must deliver an additional advantage to businesses [6, 7]. Big Data Analytics is the process of turning unstructured data from call logs, mobile banking transactions, online user-generated content such as blog posts and tweets, online searches, and images into useful business information by employing computational techniques to uncover trends and patterns among data sets [8, 9].\r\nWhen software suppliers say \"Big Data Analytics,\" they\'re referring to the technology that enables a company to handle large amounts of data. This not only distinguishes Big Data storage and processing from the common or structured data that most people are familiar with, but it also implies that businesses now demand strong, integrated solutions to make this data useable and applicable for business analytics. When dealing with enormous data sets, businesses confront difficulties integrating, processing, and managing them effectively and efficiently [3, 7, 8, 10].\r\nII. TRADITIONAL DATA SYSTEM \r\nAround 25-35 years ago, traditional data technologies such as relational databases and spreadsheets were the primary source for storing and analysing data for businesses and organisations. The systems were created primarily to handle structured data, and the data was highly ordered. Though there were other digital storage systems, these were the most often utilised. In a single computer, traditional data solves huge and difficult issues [11]. It relied on a centralised architecture, which is inefficient and costly for huge data volumes, whereas big data is based on distributed database architecture [12]. Traditional database system operates with structured data, but big data works with both semi-structured and unstructured data. Traditional databases keep tiny amounts of data ranging from a few gigabytes to a few terabytes, whereas big data can store and analyse data in the hundreds of terabytes or petabytes range and beyond. The expense of storing a significant volume of data is reduced, which aids Business Intelligence (BI) [2, 9].\r\nIII. WHAT IS BIG DATA\r\nThe term \"Big Data\" refers to the creation and implementation of technologies that provide the right user with the right information at the right time from a large amount of data that has been growing exponentially in our society for some time [13, 14]. The problem isn\'t simply dealing with ever-increasing data volumes; it\'s also dealing with data in ever-diverse forms, as well as data that are becoming increasingly intricate and interconnected [1, 2, 10]. \"Big data\" is defined by Apache Hadoop as \"a dataset that cannot be gathered, handled, or processed within an acceptable scope by computational methods.\" [4, 12, 15].\r\nBig Data is described as a set of data and technology that accesses, integrates, and reports all available data by filtering, correlating, and reporting insights not achievable with earlier data technologies, according to the APICS Dictionary, 14th Edition. Data analysis on a larger scale than humans is referred to as big data. Databases used to be limited to serving the needs of human users who entered and retrieved information. Because of the expansion of e-commerce and Internet search engines, database technology is evolving to manage humans and computers. With the amount of data growing at a 50% annual rate, information technology is the only method to organize, process, and locate it [13, 16, 17].\r\nIV. CHARACTERISTICS OF BIG DATA \r\nEnormous Data alludes to the 3V\'s as the huge, profoundly enhanced datasets (Volume), as well as coordinated, semi-organized, and unstructured information (Variety), coming quicker (Velocity) than at any other time [1, 4, 10, 12].\r\n1. Volume: How much information is produced, put away, and handled inside the framework is addressed by this worth. The ascent in volume is because of an expansion in how much information is created and put away, as well as the need to use it [1, 6, 18].\r\n2. Variety: The quantity of various kinds of information that a data framework can deal with is increased. Because of this increase, the quantity of connections and connection types between this information turns out to be more muddled. Unique information can be utilized in an assortment of ways, which mixes it up [1, 12].\r\n3. Velocity: The term \'speed\' alludes to how as often as possible information is made, gathered, and traded. The information is conveyed in a stream and should be analysed right away [1, 18].\r\n\r\nOther important characteristics of big data are; \r\n1. Variability: This is a variable that might cause issues for people who examine information. This alludes to the irregularity that information can show on occasion, impeding the course of productively taking care of and dealing with the information [6].\r\n2. Veracity: The nature of the information gathered can change fundamentally. The legitimacy of the hidden information decides the accuracy of the investigation [6].\r\n3. Complexity: Large information can be a troublesome errand, especially when huge measures of information are gathered from various sources. To get a handle on the data that should be communicated by this information, it should be connected, associated, and related. Accordingly, the \'intricacy\' of Big Data has been begat [6].\r\nV. TYPES OF BIG DATA \r\nNow that we are on target with what is considered large information, we should examine the sorts of huge information:\r\na) Structured Data: It\'s information that is put away in a PC record, document, or data set\'s decent fields. Information that can be handily looked for up, handled, investigated, and distributed with the least vulnerability is delegated organized information. Item costs, client names, and postal codes are cases of organized information [16, 20].\r\nb) Unstructured Data: This is information that doesn\'t squeeze into any of the decent fields in a record or document, or is hard to name. Sound and video records, photographs, and text-based information are instances of unstructured information (archives, diaries, messages and reports) [16, 20].\r\nc) Semi-Structured: The third kind of colossal information is this. Semi-organized information alludes to the information that has both the organized and unstructured configurations expressed previously. More specifically, it alludes to information that, while not sorted under a specific vault (data set), has fundamental data or labels that different various pieces inside the information. We\'ve presently arrived at the finish of the information sorts [20].\r\nVI. BIG DATA ANALYTICS\r\nInformation that outperforms the capacity, handling and computational ability of conventional data sets and information examination approaches is alluded to as large information. Large Data as an asset requires the utilization of devices and methodology that might be utilized to investigate and separate examples from huge measures of information [1, 17, 18]. Large information examination is the most common way of gathering, handling, cleaning, and dissecting gigantic datasets to assist organizations with figuring out their information. The terms huge information examination, information science, business knowledge, and business investigation are undeniably used to depict the examination of monstrous informational indexes in organizations. Information science is characterized as a bunch of central ideas that energize the extraction of information and data from information [12, 21].\r\nVII. CLASSIFICATIONS OF BIG DATA ANALYTICS \r\nWe must begin analysing the data when it has been collected. For various sorts of data, different forms of analytics should be applied. There are four different sorts of analytics [9, 15].\r\n• Diagnostic: The goal of the diagnostic analysis is to figure out why something happened. The objective of the symptomatic investigation is to track down the wellspring of an issue. It\'s used to sort out why something happened and how it did. This approach tries to recognize and fathom the explanations behind events and ways of behaving [9, 21].\r\n• Predictive: It establishes past data patterns and provides a list of possible solutions for a certain situation. The prescient examination looks at both current and authentic information to figure out what may happen from now on, giving likelihood. It takes advantage of your big data to predict data that we don\'t have. This is one of the most widely used analytical methods for sales lead scoring, social media, and customer service management data [1, 3, 6].\r\n• Descriptive: It involves representing the request, \"What is happening?\" It\'s a stage in the information handling process that outcomes in a bunch of verifiable information. Information mining strategies sort out information and help in the disclosure of examples that give understanding. Clear examination gauges future probabilities and examples, giving a feeling of what could occur [1, 6, 21].\r\n• Prescriptive: It involves offering the conversation starter, \"What is probably going to happen?\" It estimates what was to come given verifiable realities. Everything revolves around foreseeing what\'s to come. Prescient examination investigations current information and makes situations of what could happen to utilize an assortment of approaches, for example, information mining and man-made reasoning [1, 9].\r\nVIII. BIG DATA TECHNOLOGIES\r\nBig data is a platform to generate massive data gathered from the user’s communication using digital devices such as tablets, smartphones, and laptops [11]. With the numeric figures of data gathered particularly from the huge data amount, facts of statistics are being generated among the digital devices to extract the value of social networks [14]. Below are some of the technologies;\r\n\r\n1. MapReduce: It\'s coding engineering created by Google in 2004 and executed in Hadoop for conveyed PC handling of huge measures of information. Information from unstructured record frameworks or organized data sets can be handled along these lines. A two-venture approach is reflected in MapReduce. A \"map\" step begins information handling by separating handling errands into subtasks and relegating those subtasks to different assets to wrap up. A \"diminish\" stage consolidates all completed subtasks into a solitary result and reports the discoveries [3, 16].\r\n2. Apache Hadoop: Doug Cutting and Mike Cafarella made Hadoop an open-source programming structure in 2006. It was planned from the beginning to deal with incredibly colossal information assortments. The Hadoop Distributed File System (HDFS) and MapReduce are the two significant parts of Hadoop. Hadoop\'s stockpiling part is called HDFS. Hadoop partitions documents into enormous blocks and conveys them among hubs to store information. Hadoop\'s handling motor is MapReduce. Hadoop processes information by conveying code to hubs for equal handling [3, 8, 18, 22].\r\n3. Apache Hive: It’s a Hadoop data processing engine that uses SQL. ETL jobs and SQL queries are processed in batches with Apache Hive. HiveQL is a query language used by Hive. HiveQL is based on SQL, however, it deviates from the SQL-92 standard in some ways [8].\r\n4. Apache Pig: Pig is a key Apache project that sits on top of Hadoop and gives a more significant level of language to interfacing with Hadoop\'s MapReduce library. Pig gives a prearranging language to depicting cycles, for example, information perusing, separating and change, consolidating, and composing, which are similar cycles about which MapReduce was constructed. As opposed to communicating these cycles in many lines of Java code that straightforwardly utilizes MapReduce, Apache Piglets permits clients to communicate them in a language like slam or Perl scripts [3, 21].\r\n5. Apache Spark: As a data analytics software, Apache Spark is rapidly gaining traction. It\'s an open-source cluster computing framework. Because it can analyse data up to 100 times quicker than Hadoop\'s MapReduce, Spark is commonly used as a replacement for Hadoop\'s MapReduce. Streaming information, AI, and intelligent examination are normal use cases for Apache Spark [3, 8].\r\n6. NoSQL Databases: These are intended for big volumes of dynamic data that do not necessitate a relational data model. Continuous admittance to information pieces, for example, Twitter tweets, Internet server logs, and security keys is a typical use [8, 12, 18].\r\nIX. BIG DATA ANALYTICS APPLICATIONS\r\nLarge information investigation is utilized in an assortment of businesses, including internet business, legislative issues, science and innovation, wellbeing, and taxpayer-supported organizations [5]. Organizations that are information-driven from an assortment of ventures exhibit the force of huge information by creating more precise forecasts and going with better choices [13, 15, 17]. By breaking down huge measures of information and uncovering stowed away examples, large information applications can help organizations in settling on better business choices. These informational collections could emerge out of web-based entertainment, sensor information, site logs, shopper criticism, etc. Large information applications are costing organizations a truckload of cash to find stowed away examples, obscure connections, market styles, buyer inclinations, and other helpful business information [6, 23, 24]. The following are some examples of domains where big data can be used:\r\ni) Government: The integration of big data into government processes allows for cost savings, efficiencies in agriculture, aviation, e-commerce, network safety and knowledge, wrongdoing forecast and avoidance, efficiency, and assessment consistency, in addition to other things [6, 23].\r\nii) Manufacturing: Prescient assembling can assist with improving proficiency and permit more merchandise to be delivered while decreasing machine free time. For such enterprises, a lot of information is required. High-level estimating calculations utilize a precise way to deal with revealing significant data for these datasets [6, 19, 23]. Coming up next are probably the main advantages of involving enormous information applications in the assembling business:\r\no Superior product quality,\r\no supply planning,\r\no Defective tracking\r\no output prediction, \r\no energy efficiency, \r\no testing and modelling of novel production processes, and \r\no large-scale manufacturing customization. \r\niii) Healthcare: Customized medication and prescriptive examination, clinical gamble intercession and prescient investigation, waste and care changeability decrease, mechanized outer and inner revealing of patient information, normalized clinical wording and patient libraries, and divided point arrangements are instances of how enormous information investigation has figured out how to assist wellbeing with caring framework upgrade [6, 19, 23].\r\niv) Education: As indicated by a McKinsey Global Institute report, there is a deficit of 1.5 million profoundly qualified information experts and directors, and a few schools, similar to the University of Tennessee and the University of California, Berkeley, have sent off expert projects to fulfil this interest. To address this need, confidential training camps have sent off programs, including free projects like The Data Incubator and premium projects like General Assembly [6].\r\nv) Internet of Things (IoT): The gadgets consistently create information and move it to a server every day. This information is mined to work with gadget interconnectivity. This planning can be involved by government associations as well as an assortment of organizations to work on their capacities. IoT is being utilized in savvy water system frameworks, traffic the executives, and group the board, in addition to other things [6, 23, 25],\r\nvi) Media and Entertainment: New organizations are being utilized by the media and amusement areas to make, publicize, and disperse their substance. Clients hope to have the option to get to advanced content from any area and whenever. The rise of online TV shows, Netflix channels, and other comparable administrations exhibits that new clients are intrigued by survey TV as well as by getting information from any area. Media organizations ideal interest groups by guessing what individuals need to see, how to target adverts, how to adapt content, etc. By investigating watcher ways of behaving, enormous information instruments are working on the payment of such media organizations [6, 23].\r\nX. WHY BIG DATA ANALYTICS IS NEEDED?\r\nHuge information examination helps organizations in bridging their information and recognizing additional opportunities. Accordingly, more brilliant business choices, more successful activities, expanded benefits, and more pleasant customers are the outcome [15, 19, 22]. \r\ni) Decision-making is both quicker and better. Organizations can examine data promptly - and pursue choices given what they\'ve realized - because of Hadoop\'s speed and in-memory examination, as well as the ability to dissect new wellsprings of information [6].\r\nii) New products and services. With the ability to utilize examination to gauge client prerequisites and fulfilment comes the possibility to give clients precisely what they need. As per Davenport, more associations are utilizing large information examinations to make new merchandise to satisfy the necessities of their clients [6].\r\niii) Cost reduction. With regards to putting away a lot of information, huge information innovations like Hadoop and cloud-based examination give massive expense reserve funds, as well as the capacity to reveal more successful approaches to carrying on with work [6].\r\niv) Big Data solutions: They\'re perfect for investigating semi-organized and unstructured information from an assortment of sources, as well as crude organized information [18].\r\nv) v) When business measurements of information are not predefined, Big Data arrangements are proper for iterative and exploratory examination [18].\r\nvi) Big Data is profoundly fit for taking care of data issues that don\'t fit perfectly into a standard social information base methodology to settle the main thing [18].\r\nvii) Time Savings: Devices like Hadoop and in-memory examination can rapidly track down new wellsprings of information, permitting firms to dissect information and pursue quick choices given what they\'ve realized [20].\r\nXI. BIG DATA ANALYTICS CHALLENGES\r\nThe greatest impediments to associations embracing large information examination are more administrative and social than specialized, with the principal boundaries being an absence of comprehension of how to utilize huge information investigation to further develop business execution and an absence of the board ranging from clashing objectives [13, 22]. As per different industry studies, associations utilize not exactly 50% of their organized information in decision-making, while under 1% of their unstructured information is examined or taken advantage of, 70% of workers approach information they shouldn\'t, and experts invest 80% of their energy finding and getting ready information [13, 19, 24].\r\n1. Leadership As per the board difficulties, undertakings that accomplish find success in the information-driven time have administration groups that decide points, tweak accomplishments and pose the right inquiries to be responded to by information experiences. Notwithstanding its mechanical methodology, the force of huge information can\'t be taken advantage of without vision or human knowledge. Thusly, heads of endeavours with a dream and the capacity to uncover future patterns and valuable open doors will act inventive and spur their groups to work proficiently to accomplish their objectives [21].\r\n2. Talented management: A term alludes to the course of Human capital with an elevated degree of specialized abilities to involve and take advantage of these innovations to accomplish exploitable data for end clients, essentially the C-suite, which is expected for undertakings to use information through large information examination. Insights, enormous information mining, ace perception devices, a business-situated disposition, and AI are among the novel capacities these individuals have. These are vital for gaining important bits of knowledge from huge information and adding to decision-making [13]. In any case, these people (information researchers, information examiners, etc) are unquestionably rare, thus there is a gigantic interest in them. Finding information researchers who are talented in both examination and subject information is troublesome. By and large, there are fewer information researchers available than are required [24].\r\n3. Decision-making Process and Quality. The nature of decision-making utilizing an information-driven system is a vital perspective in boosting the advantages of large information examinations. In this unique situation, components, for example, information quality from huge information sources, large information examination capacities, staff, and decision-creator quality are completely connected to decision-making quality [36]. The precision of large information sources is significant in offering high worth in decision making and keeping away from mistaken activities, while huge information examination abilities are connected to the utilization of the right philosophies and devices from enormous information examination specialists [24].\r\n4. Data privacy. Many individuals view information assortment as profoundly suspect. Huge information is an encroachment on their security for them. Advertisers are battling with purchasers\' view of information, as 71% accept that brands with admittance to their information are utilizing it unscrupulously, and 58% have not utilized any computerized administration because of protection concerns, which drive decisions about which applications to download, which email locations to share, and which online entertainment locales to interface with different sites. Thus, organizations should execute insurances to guarantee that information isn\'t taken advantage of to penetrate clients\' protection [7]. Information strategies, including protection, security, licensed innovation, and risk issues, ought to be dealt with in this method for augmenting the capability of huge information [24].\r\n5. Utilization of new technology. Numerous organizations that perceive the worth of information have created specialized abilities in business knowledge or potentially information warehousing, however, large information examination arrangements are exceptional and novel. Therefore, organizations should utilize existing methodologies and innovation to remove esteem from large information. Since these advancements are constantly developing, IT divisions ought to have the option to extend their abilities and remain current with progressing development. For instance, when data set programming doesn\'t empower huge information investigation, issues will emerge [24].\r\n','Suleiman, Muhammad Muhammad and Aliyu, Muhammad Bello (2022). Application of Big Data Analytics: Opportunities and Challenges. International Journal on Emerging Technologies, 13(1): 30–35.\r\n'),(5032,'113',' Process Design of the Production of Virgin Coconut Oil (VCO) Using Combined Low-Pressure Oil Extraction Method and Modified Kitchen Method','L.D. Pestaño, C.D. Diaz, M. Tamaki and L.O. Timbre*','4 Process Design of the Production of Virgin Coconut Oil _VCO_ Using Combined Low-Pressure Oil Extraction Method and Modified Kitchen Method L.D. Pestaño.pdf','',1,'Virgin coconut oil (VCO) is the most valued coconut-based product globally; thus, the production of VCO adds more profit than producing copra alone. This research aims to design a process to produce VCO involving the combined low-pressure oil extraction method and modified kitchen method applicable to a small-medium scale coconut community or farm in the Philippines. Preparation of raw materials includes splitting, grating of coconut meat and milk extraction. The VCO processing technology employs two assembly lines: (1) the fresh-wet process through modified kitchen method that consumes the extracted coconut milk; and (2) the fresh-dry process through low-pressure oil extraction method that utilizes the coconut meat residue or sapal. The Low-pressure oil extraction method combined with modified kitchen method was developed based on the review of VCO processing technologies that was conducted involving the two methods. Both assembly lines are expected to produce VCO that will qualify in the Asian and Pacific Coconut Community (APCC) standard for VCO. A conceptual design for the integrated method applicable to a small-medium scale coconut community or farm in the Philippines was developed that will yield 25% and 16.5% VCO for the low-pressure oil extraction method and modified kitchen method, respectively. The weight of all recovered materials and utilization of wastes in the VCO processing technology to produce value-added commodities were accounted for. This review of the combined VCO processing techniques will benefit coconut farmers and their families by providing additional income in their livelihood as they venture into an improved VCO processing. ','Copra, low-pressure oil extraction, modified kitchen method, sinusinu, small-medium scale, virgin coconut oil','The process for the production of VCO that employs a combined low-pressure oil extraction method and modified kitchen method was developed based on the review of VCO processing technologies that was conducted involving the two methods. Both assembly lines are expected to produce VCO that will qualify in the Asian and Pacific Coconut Community (APCC) Standard for VCO. A conceptual design for the integrated method that is applicable to a small-medium scale coconut community or farm in the Philippines was developed that will yield 25% and 16.5% VCO for the low-pressure oil extraction method and modified kitchen method, respectively. The weight of all recovered materials and wastes in the VCO processing technology and the utilization of wastes to produce value-added commodities were accounted for.','I. INTRODUCTION\r\nCoconut oil was derived from dried coconut (Cocos nucifera) meat kernels, also known as copra. Coconut oil belongs to the lauric oil group, which is a category of vegetable oil. There are several methods used in producing coconut oil, and these include wet and dry processing. The dry process is the prevalent method of extracting coconut oil [1]. A refined commercial coconut oil (RCO) is extracted from copra and undergoes an industrial process by washing, bleaching, and decolorization (RBD) [2]. On the other hand, virgin coconut oil (VCO) comes from fresh coconut meats that undergo physical processes. In contrast with RCO, the process does not require chemical refinement [3]. The method includes extracting fresh coconut milk by inducing heat [4]. \r\nThe Philippines, compared to Southeast Asian competitors such as Indonesia, has been keeping in the lead in VCO production. Today, the Philippine Coconut Authority (PCA) reported a production capacity of 2931 MT. According to ACOP Inc., its affiliates can generate 50,000 L of VCO using a cold press [5]. VCO is currently produced mostly by small-medium scale businesses in the Philippines, with few caterings to the export market. It may be produced without any special equipment, and the raw material is coconut meat [6].A shorter period is required to achieve an increased production while also ensuring the quality of VCO, which depends on different factors relating to the condition of the raw material, processing method, packaging, and storage condition [4].\r\nResearchers developed several VCO processes depending on the production capacity, availability, and cost that satisfy the highest efficiency. Bawalan and Chapman [7] classified these two methods into two types: dry process and wet process. Production of VCO under wet and dry processing methods are applicable at a small-medium scale setting with capacities of 5,000-10,000 nuts/day [8]. The dry process method involves the coconut meat kernels subjected to different operations such as low-pressure oil extraction, high-pressure extraction, and fresh-dry centrifuge. In contrast, the wet process method includes coconut milk and kernels under methods such as natural fermentation, fresh-wet centrifuge, and modified kitchen [7]. The researchers use the combination of dry and wet processing methods: low-pressure oil extraction method and modified kitchen method.\r\nVCO is the most valued coconut-based product globally [9]; thus, the production of VCO adds more profit than producing copra alone. This review of the combined techniques for VCO processing will benefit coconut farmers as well as their families. This will provide additional income to improve the cost of living as they venture into an improved VCO processing.\r\nFurthermore, researchers recommend VCO as a potential antiviral agent against coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) [2]. Also, it is said to have a variety of health benefits such as skincare, haircare, stress relief, weight loss, cholesterol level maintenance, immunomodulatory effects, cardiovascular uses, and, more recently, Alzheimer’s disease are among them [10].According to Babu et al. [11], VCO shows potential cardio protective effects due to its medium-chain fatty acids content, which is known for high antioxidant properties.\r\nThis research intends to design a processing technology that combines low-pressure oil extraction method and modified kitchen method to produce VCO in a small-medium scale setting. The VCO to be produced using the integrated approach would qualify the standards set by the Department of Agriculture (DA) and the Philippine Coconut Authority (PCA).\r\nThe specific objectives are:\r\n• To conduct a review of the VCO production technologies that utilize the combined low-pressure oil extraction method and modified kitchen method.\r\n•To determine the total weight of recovered materials and coconut wastes and investigate the possible utilization of these wastes to produce value-added commodities. \r\n•To develop a conceptual design of the production of VCO that applies to a small-medium scale coconut community or farm in the Philippines.\r\nThe combined process is designed for a small-medium scale set-up as one of the technologies undergoes the fresh-dry process. It works on the premise that oil from seeds or nuts can be extracted using low pressure at roughly 460 psi if the moisture percentage of the material is between 10% and 13% [12].\r\nII. MATERIALS AND METHODS\r\nA. Process description\r\nThe VCO processing technology will use 6,000 matured de-husked nuts per day which is ideal for small-medium scale setting. The VCO process will employ two assembly lines: VCO extraction through fresh-dry process by the low-pressure oil extraction method, which can be done in a typical coconut farm in the Philippines and through fresh-wet process by the modified kitchen method, done in the convenience of the homes of its populaces.\r\nB. Preparation of raw materials\r\nFresh and matured de-husked coconuts of 10 to 12 months of age will be utilized. Place the nuts in large rice sacks and bring them to an area for splitting and grating.\r\nCollection of coconut water. Make a hole in one of the “eyes” of the nut, as shown in Fig. 1 since it is the area where the thinnest shell is located. Using a hammer and a clean nail, puncture a hole to create an orifice and let the coconut water to drain. Collect the coconut water using clean plastic containers and store it in a refrigerator [13].\r\nSplitting. As shown in Fig. 2, hold the nut with one hand and apply a force using a large kitchen knife until the nut is completely split into half [13].\r\nGrating of coconut meat. Hold the de-husked coconut and subject the whole white coconut meat portion to the scraping tool in a circular motion (See Fig. 3) to comminute the meat into fine particles. Collect the grated coconut meat in clean large plastic pails and put the coconut shells in large plastic bags.\r\nCoconut milk extraction. The coconut milk can be extracted by hand or by a manual hydraulic jack. Mix the grated coconut with water, which creates a milky heterogeneous mixture. Several sources claim that the ideal ratio of water to grated coconut is 1:1 to create the desired consistency of coconut milk [16].\r\nExtraction of coconut milk by hand. Place the grated coconut mixture in cheesecloth bags as shown in Fig. 4. Squeeze the cheesecloth bags containing the grated coconut mixture to extract the coconut milk. Collect the extracted coconut milk and coconut meat residue (sapal) separately in clean large transparent plastic containers.\r\nExtraction of coconut milk by manual hydraulic jack. Place the cheesecloth bag containing the grated coconut mixture at the center of a manually operated hydraulic jack and extract the coconut milk according to the jack’s operating procedure as shown in Fig. 5. Collect the coconut milk and grated coconut meat residue separately in clean large transparent plastic containers.\r\nC. VCO processing methods\r\nThe collected coconut milk will undergo modified kitchen method while the collected sapal will be subjected to low-pressure oil extraction method.\r\nD. Modified kitchen method\r\nSettling. Let the coconut milk settle for exactly 2 hours in a chilled refrigerator about 0oC to 4oC [17]. The coconut milk extract should appear separated into two phases: the coconut cream layer and the coconut skim milk layer as shown in Fig. 6. Using a ladle, scoop the coconut cream (oily phase) from the top. Put the cream in clean medium plastic containers and store the skim milk in the refrigerator.\r\nSlow heating. Heat the coconut cream in a casserole pan. For the first hour, set the stove between medium to high until the temperature reaches 90oC. For the succeeding hours, heating will be done at a temperature not higher than 80oC until the coconut cream starts to form the coagulated protein (sinusinu) [17] (See Fig. 7). At this point, lower the temperature setting at 60oC. Use a kitchen thermometer to control all the temperatures precisely. Continuously stir the mixture to prevent the oil from turning yellowish in color.\r\nFiltering. Filter the oil-sinusinu mixture to eliminate the adhering fine particles, leaving a colorless oil. Put a muslin cloth into a strainer and pour the oil-sinusinu mixture over the cloth (Fig. 8). Commercially available muslin cloth can be bought in fabric stores in the market and are commonly 90 x 100 cm in dimension [18]. Collect the filtered coconut oil in clean transparent medium plastic containers. Remove the sinusinu from the muslin cloth then manually squeeze the cloth to collect the absorbed coconut oil [17]. Collect the sinusinu residue in large plastic bags.\r\nOil drying. Oil drying will be done through a double boiler process [17]. Submerge a stainless-steel mixing bowl inside a pot with half full of water. Put the coconut oil in the mixing bowl. Reduce the setting of the stove to low once the water starts to boil. The coconut oil should not be heated directly in the pot to prevent the temperature from exceeding 65oC since this will make the coconut oil yellowish in color [17]. Collect the final colorless VCO from the mixing bowl in large clean plastic containers with a cover. Label the containers with VCO.\r\nE. Low-pressure oil extraction\r\nDrying. Pre-heat the electric tray dryer at 70oC for about 30 minutes [12]. Spread the sapal uniformly over the surface of 16 × 32 × 1 ¼ in. trays. Load batches of trays containing sapal into the pre-heated electric dryer. Dry the sapal at a temperature of 70oC for 29.7 minutes reaching 11% moisture content, to attain an optimum oil recovery [12, 17], as shown in Fig. 10. Place the dried sapal in clean cheesecloth bags.\r\nManual pressing. Position the packed dried sapal in the pressing area of the hydraulic manual press [17]. Prepare clean plastic containers with a lid under the pressing area of the hydraulic manual press. Move the pump operating lever at the side in an alternating push-and-pull motion to compress the dried sapal.\r\nRelease the lever until all the crude coconut oil has been extracted from the sapal, as shown in Fig. 11. Collect the spent dried sapal in clean large plastic bags. Set aside the crude coconut oil for settling.\r\nSettling. Let the extracted crude coconut oil stand for seven days to settle the fine particles adhered to the crude coconut oil. Allot another seven days to settle the crude coconut oil [17]. Decant the final VCO to clean plastic containers and collect the fine particles in plastic bags for disposal for the 2 intervals. Cover and label the containers. \r\nF. Collection of wastes and disposal\r\nDispose the coconut shells by selling them to charcoal, plywood, or handicraft manufacturers. Store the collected coconut water in a refrigerator for consumption purposes or this can be converted to a high-energy drink that can be sold to consumers [19]. Wash the cheesecloth bags and muslin cloth fabrics after the processes and reuse them again for another batch of operation. Refrigerate the coconut skim milkfor a maximum of two hours for consumption purposes. \r\nSet aside the sinusinu to use as a rice cake topping or a meat-based food extender, decreasing the cost of the meal without sacrificing its nutritional value.\r\nSet aside the spent dried sapal meat since this can be used in different applications such as a healthy snack food, a meat extender, and an organic fertilizer.\r\nG. Quality testing\r\nThe obtained VCO from the modified kitchen method will be tested for different parameters such as iodine value, peroxide value, saponification value, moisture content, and free fatty acids (FFA). The VCO samples will be brought to the Philippine Coconut Authority (PCA) for the testing of said parameters. \r\nH.Mass balance\r\nA mass balance of all the process units is executed to account for the mass of various streams entering and leaving each process. 6000 nuts per day was used as the basis for a small-medium scale setting in coconut farms. All percentage compositions are per weight. The calculated amounts from the mass balances are used as basis to determine the desired yield and productivity.\r\nIII. RESULTS AND DISCUSSION\r\nA. Process design of the VCO processing\r\nAfter the procurement of fresh and matured de-husked coconuts, the preparation of raw materials will be done that includes: (1) collection of coconut water; (2) splitting; and (3) grating of coconut meat; and (4) milk extraction that will produce coconut milk and coconut meat residue (sapal). Coconut water and coconut shells are waste products that can be converted into value-added commodities.\r\nThe VCO processing technology employs two assembly lines: (1) the fresh-wet process by the modified kitchen method that will consume the extracted coconut milk; and (2) the fresh-dry process by the low-pressure oil extraction method that utilizes the sapal. The major product of both assembly lines is the VCO. Shown above in Fig. 12 is the flowchart of the integrated modified kitchen method and low-pressure oil extraction method for the production of VCO.\r\nB. Quantitative flow diagram\r\nThe researchers were able to determine the average weight of the following quantities: 520.07 g coconut water; 312.21 g coconut shell; and 517.27 g grated coconut meat per nut. The average composition of a nut for an average weight of 1374.01 g were computed as 22.72% shell, 37.85% water, 37.65% flesh, and 1.78% that corresponds to losses in handling [12].\r\nFor an input of 222 kg fresh grated coconut meat, 85 kg milk was extracted through manual pressing with 130 kg coconut residue (sapal) and 7 kg losses [8]. The researchers were able to calculate the following percentage composition: 38.29% coconut milk, 58.56% grated coconut meat residue, and 3.15% loss. \r\nThe weight of dried sapal with 10-12% moisture, spent dried sapal, sinusinu, and VCO per input of sapaland grated coconut meat is shown in Table 1 [8,16]. Coconut milk is composed of coconut cream and skim milk. The composition of coconut cream consists of 74.6% moisture, 20% fat, and 5.4% non-fat solids [20]. Using Equation (1), the mass of coconut cream can be determined from the fat content of the coconut cream and recovery of VCO. \r\nkg coconut cream=(%VCO recovery* kg coconut milk)/(% fat in coconut cream) (1) [20]\r\nAn experiment by Hundanaet al.[21],used the modified kitchen method where after slow heating and filtration process of coconut cream, the weight of sinusinu was determined. Furthermore, according to Bawalan [17], for the modified kitchen method, 16.5 kg VCO per 100 kg grated coconut meat was recovered. From the data, other recovered materials were determined. The recovery of materials for low-pressure oil extraction method and modified kitchen method is shown in the Table 1.\r\nUsing the data above from different VCO technology studies, Fig. 13 below shows the quantitative flow diagram (QFD) for the production of VCO. The QFD indicates that for 6000 fresh mature de-husked coconuts per day will be collected, the total weight of the nuts is 8244.06 kg and contains 3120.42 kg water, 709.04 kg coconut shell, 3103.62 kg grated coconut meat, and 97.86 kg losses. The obtained grated coconut is extracted producing coconut milk. The coconut milk will undergo the modified kitchen method while the extracted coconut meat residue (sapal) will be sent to the low-pressure oil extraction method assembly line.\r\nFrom 1188.32 kg coconut milk, 207.956 kg coconut skim milk and 980.37 kg coconut cream are produced. The obtained coconut cream is sent to a slow heating process resulting in a 980.37 kg oil-sinusinu mixture. The product mixture is filtered producing 446.92 kg sinusinu and 533.45 kg coconut oil. The obtained coconut oil evaporated 21.35 kg of residual moisture and produced the final product, 512.10 kg VCO.\r\nOn the other hand, the sapal weighing 1817.435 kg is subjected to drying: evaporating 573.19 kg of water and producing 1244.24 kg dried sapal. The obtained dried sepal is sent to manual pressing, producing 950.66 kg crude coconut oil and 293.59 kg spent dried sapal. The obtained crude coconut oil is subjected to settling, collecting 174.75 kg fine particles and the final product, 775.91 kg VCO.\r\nC. Review of VCO technology\r\nThe modified kitchen method and low-pressure oil extraction method have several recommendations as described by the authors. In the milk extraction process, the ideal ratio of water to grated coconut is 1:1 in order to create coconut milk [15].\r\nFor the modified kitchen method, it is highly recommended to subject the VCO to an oil drying process due to its initially high moisture content [17]. The presence of water in VCO will make the oil spoiled. According to Bawalan [17], the allowable moisture content of oil should not exceed 0.1% for the VCO to have a longer shelf-life. Additionally, for slow heating, reduce the setting of the stove to low once the pot-filled water starts to boil. The oil shall not be heated directly in the pot to prevent the temperature from exceeding 65oC since this will make the oil yellowish in color [17]. \r\nA study reported the importance of drying for the low-pressure oil extraction method. The optimum oil recovery for low-pressure oil extraction is attainable when the dried grated kernel’s moisture content is 11% before extraction [17]. No oil can be extracted when the moisture content is much lower than 11%, while the oil tends to mix with the coconut milk when the moisture content is much higher than 11% [7]. Since it is required to reach a 10–12% range of moisture content, it is necessary to do a material balance computation to determine the kernel\'s final weight when its moisture content reduces to 11%. Additionally, the moisture content of the dried kernel is usually determined by feel and greatly depends on the skill of the operator doing the drying process and preparing the grated kernel prior to extraction [17]. \r\nQuality testing. The Asian Pacific Coconut Community (APCC) and Codex Alimentarius have standardized quality control criteria for physical, chemical, and microbiological characteristics of VCO, as seen in Table 2 [22]. A VCO that meets APCC’s interim standard indicates that the oil is produced by natural means and there are no alterations in its properties. Conforming to the Codex Standard for Coconut Oil implies that “virgin oils” are suitable for human consumption and purification can be done by water-washing, settling, filtering, and centrifugation to remove undesired components and extend shelf life [23].\r\nThe three scientific journals for the production of VCO through the modified kitchen and low-pressure oil extraction method by Achinewhu et al. [24], Sedode [25], and Afiq et al. [26], showed the quality testing results for physicochemical properties such as the Iodine Value, FFA, Peroxide Value, Saponification Value, and Moisture Content. The data were investigated and compared from the required values based on the Asian and Pacific Coconut Community (APCC) Standard for VCO, shown in Table 2.\r\nFor the study of Achinewhu et al. [24], the Peroxide Value (PV) of the oil samples for the Hot-Pressed Method, also known as the modified kitchen method, is lower than the APCC of <3.00 mEq/kg. Low PV of the extracted VCO is due to the freshness of the mature coconut copra used. Also, this indicated that the samples are highly stable against oxidative rancidity [24]. The Saponification Value (SV) of the VCO extracted is within the standard limit for VCO, as recommended by APCC. High SV gives an indicator for the suitability of vegetable oil for industrial application [24]. Moisture impurities and volatile matter (MIV) in the samples are below APCC setstandard of <0.2% [24]. MIV are important determinants of oil quality [24]. It is best to maintain the moisture level low as it extends the shelf life by preventing oxidation and rancidity. Hydrolytic rancidity of vegetable oils and fats is increased by high moisture content [24]. The Iodine Value (IV) of the samples is within the standard limit as recommended by the APCC. The low IV of coconut oil is an indication that the oil is rich in saturated fatty acids [22]. The Free Fatty Acid (FFA) of the samples is lower than the APCC standard. Low FFA in the oil sample is an indication of good storage stability [24]. \r\nA study by Sedode [25] determined the quality of several VCO processing techniques, one of which is the modified kitchen method. The determined value for Iodine is lower than the standard values based on APCC. This indicated a high value of unsaturated fat in the VCO [25]. On the other hand, the %FFA, peroxide value, and moisture content qualified in the ranges and minimum values of the APCC standard for VCO.\r\nThe physicochemical properties of VCO extracted from various processing methods, including the fresh-dry low-pressure oil extraction method, were analyzed in a study by Afiq et al. [26]. Iodine Value was found to affect the overall quality parameters of VCO, such as the shelf life, appearance, taste, and smell. A low IV indicates that it is unlikely for VCO to become rancid from lipid oxidation [26]. The drying time for sapal prior to oil extraction can also affect the %FFA of VCO. A longer drying time leads to an increase in % FFA, causing more time for the process of rancidity to occur [26].\r\n','L.D. Pestaño, C.D. Diaz, M. Tamaki and L.O. Timbre (2022). Process Design of the Production of Virgin Coconut Oil (VCO) Using Combined Low-Pressure Oil Extraction Method and Modified Kitchen Method. International Journal on Emerging Technologies, 13(1): 22–29.'),(5033,'113','Application of Big Data Analytics: Opportunities and Challenges','Muhammad Muhammad Suleiman and Muhammad Bello Aliyu','5 Application of Big Data Analytics Opportunities and Challenges Muhammad Muhammad Suleiman.pdf','',1,'Companies are beginning to see the value of having large amounts of data at their disposal to make the best decisions and achieve their goals. As new technologies, the Internet, and social networks emerge, the volume of digital data continues to grow. In this era, everything around us is continually generating Big data. Big data is coming in at an alarming velocity, volume, and diversity, and it\'s coming from a variety of places. You\'ll need the best processing power, analytical capabilities, and talents to get the most out of big data. Big data has sparked interest in several sectors, including data mining and machine learning. This text aims to discuss the new concept of big data and data analytics, including its concept, technologies, and various types of this innovation that are designed to allow for efficient data mining and information sharing fusion from social media, as well as the new applications and paradigms that fall under the \"umbrella\" of social networks, social networks, and big data concepts. This colossal amount of data arrives from all across the world, daily. Structured, unstructured, and distributed big data are all possibilities. Certain tools and techniques are required to manage large amounts of data. This paper provides an overview of the notion of big data, as well as issues, challenges, and tools and strategies in this domain.','Big Data, Big Data Analytics, Structured & Unstructured Data, MapReduce, Volume','The mechanical world is quickly developing today. Associations of all sizes are feeling the squeeze to be information-driven and to achieve more with less. Regardless of whether large information advances are still in their early stages, the effect of the 3Vs of enormous information, which are currently the 5Vs, can\'t be ignored. The second has come for organizations to begin creating and carrying out their MapReduce or Hadoop-based information lake. Organizations that have the important framework, individuals, and vision are strategically set up to propel their large information procedure and change their organizations. A part of exploration called Data Science has arisen and is developing to manage huge information, work with it, and get benefits from it. Information Science is a discipline of science worried about deducing and investigating information from large assortments of information, the greater part of which are unstructured or semi-organized. Unrest\'s changing the globe and has applications in finance, retail, medical care, assembling, sports, and correspondence. Numerous information researchers are required and will be expected via web search tools and advanced showcasing firms like Google, organizing organizations like Facebook, and monetary and web-based business enterprises like Amazon.','I. INTRODUCTION \r\nThe use of Internet-connected devices aids in the generation of digital data. Cellophane, tablets, and laptops, as a result, communicate information about their owners. The use of everyday objects by consumers is tracked using connected smart objects [1, 2]. Big Data is a data-driven approach enabled by recent technical advances that allow for high-speed data collection, storage, and analysis. Data sources that go outside the standard company database include emails, mobile device outputs, and sensor-generated data. Data is no longer restricted to structured database entries, but rather includes unstructured data that lacks a standard framework [2, 5].\r\nThe three Vs of big data, according to Gartner, are volume, velocity, and variety. Gartner expanded its definition in 2012 to include veracity, which expresses faith and scepticism in data and data analysis outcomes. In a 2012 study, IDC highlighted the 4th V as the value, emphasizing that Big Data applications must deliver an additional advantage to businesses [6, 7]. Big Data Analytics is the process of turning unstructured data from call logs, mobile banking transactions, online user-generated content such as blog posts and tweets, online searches, and images into useful business information by employing computational techniques to uncover trends and patterns among data sets [8, 9].\r\nWhen software suppliers say \"Big Data Analytics,\" they\'re referring to the technology that enables a company to handle large amounts of data. This not only distinguishes Big Data storage and processing from the common or structured data that most people are familiar with, but it also implies that businesses now demand strong, integrated solutions to make this data useable and applicable for business analytics. When dealing with enormous data sets, businesses confront difficulties integrating, processing, and managing them effectively and efficiently [3, 7, 8, 10].\r\nII. TRADITIONAL DATA SYSTEM \r\nAround 25-35 years ago, traditional data technologies such as relational databases and spreadsheets were the primary source for storing and analysing data for businesses and organisations. The systems were created primarily to handle structured data, and the data was highly ordered. Though there were other digital storage systems, these were the most often utilised. In a single computer, traditional data solves huge and difficult issues [11]. It relied on a centralised architecture, which is inefficient and costly for huge data volumes, whereas big data is based on distributed database architecture [12]. Traditional database system operates with structured data, but big data works with both semi-structured and unstructured data. Traditional databases keep tiny amounts of data ranging from a few gigabytes to a few terabytes, whereas big data can store and analyse data in the hundreds of terabytes or petabytes range and beyond. The expense of storing a significant volume of data is reduced, which aids Business Intelligence (BI) [2, 9].\r\nIII. WHAT IS BIG DATA\r\nThe term \"Big Data\" refers to the creation and implementation of technologies that provide the right user with the right information at the right time from a large amount of data that has been growing exponentially in our society for some time [13, 14]. The problem isn\'t simply dealing with ever-increasing data volumes; it\'s also dealing with data in ever-diverse forms, as well as data that are becoming increasingly intricate and interconnected [1, 2, 10]. \"Big data\" is defined by Apache Hadoop as \"a dataset that cannot be gathered, handled, or processed within an acceptable scope by computational methods.\" [4, 12, 15].\r\nBig Data is described as a set of data and technology that accesses, integrates, and reports all available data by filtering, correlating, and reporting insights not achievable with earlier data technologies, according to the APICS Dictionary, 14th Edition. Data analysis on a larger scale than humans is referred to as big data. Databases used to be limited to serving the needs of human users who entered and retrieved information. Because of the expansion of e-commerce and Internet search engines, database technology is evolving to manage humans and computers. With the amount of data growing at a 50% annual rate, information technology is the only method to organize, process, and locate it [13, 16, 17].\r\nIV. CHARACTERISTICS OF BIG DATA \r\nEnormous Data alludes to the 3V\'s as the huge, profoundly enhanced datasets (Volume), as well as coordinated, semi-organized, and unstructured information (Variety), coming quicker (Velocity) than at any other time [1, 4, 10, 12].\r\n1. Volume: How much information is produced, put away, and handled inside the framework is addressed by this worth. The ascent in volume is because of an expansion in how much information is created and put away, as well as the need to use it [1, 6, 18].\r\n2. Variety: The quantity of various kinds of information that a data framework can deal with is increased. Because of this increase, the quantity of connections and connection types between this information turns out to be more muddled. Unique information can be utilized in an assortment of ways, which mixes it up [1, 12].\r\n3. Velocity: The term \'speed\' alludes to how as often as possible information is made, gathered, and traded. The information is conveyed in a stream and should be analysed right away [1, 18].\r\n\r\nOther important characteristics of big data are; \r\n1. Variability: This is a variable that might cause issues for people who examine information. This alludes to the irregularity that information can show on occasion, impeding the course of productively taking care of and dealing with the information [6].\r\n2. Veracity: The nature of the information gathered can change fundamentally. The legitimacy of the hidden information decides the accuracy of the investigation [6].\r\n3. Complexity: Large information can be a troublesome errand, especially when huge measures of information are gathered from various sources. To get a handle on the data that should be communicated by this information, it should be connected, associated, and related. Accordingly, the \'intricacy\' of Big Data has been begat [6].\r\nV. TYPES OF BIG DATA \r\nNow that we are on target with what is considered large information, we should examine the sorts of huge information:\r\na) Structured Data: It\'s information that is put away in a PC record, document, or data set\'s decent fields. Information that can be handily looked for up, handled, investigated, and distributed with the least vulnerability is delegated organized information. Item costs, client names, and postal codes are cases of organized information [16, 20].\r\nb) Unstructured Data: This is information that doesn\'t squeeze into any of the decent fields in a record or document, or is hard to name. Sound and video records, photographs, and text-based information are instances of unstructured information (archives, diaries, messages and reports) [16, 20].\r\nc) Semi-Structured: The third kind of colossal information is this. Semi-organized information alludes to the information that has both the organized and unstructured configurations expressed previously. More specifically, it alludes to information that, while not sorted under a specific vault (data set), has fundamental data or labels that different various pieces inside the information. We\'ve presently arrived at the finish of the information sorts [20].\r\nVI. BIG DATA ANALYTICS\r\nInformation that outperforms the capacity, handling and computational ability of conventional data sets and information examination approaches is alluded to as large information. Large Data as an asset requires the utilization of devices and methodology that might be utilized to investigate and separate examples from huge measures of information [1, 17, 18]. Large information examination is the most common way of gathering, handling, cleaning, and dissecting gigantic datasets to assist organizations with figuring out their information. The terms huge information examination, information science, business knowledge, and business investigation are undeniably used to depict the examination of monstrous informational indexes in organizations. Information science is characterized as a bunch of central ideas that energize the extraction of information and data from information [12, 21].\r\nVII. CLASSIFICATIONS OF BIG DATA ANALYTICS \r\nWe must begin analysing the data when it has been collected. For various sorts of data, different forms of analytics should be applied. There are four different sorts of analytics [9, 15].\r\n• Diagnostic: The goal of the diagnostic analysis is to figure out why something happened. The objective of the symptomatic investigation is to track down the wellspring of an issue. It\'s used to sort out why something happened and how it did. This approach tries to recognize and fathom the explanations behind events and ways of behaving [9, 21].\r\n• Predictive: It establishes past data patterns and provides a list of possible solutions for a certain situation. The prescient examination looks at both current and authentic information to figure out what may happen from now on, giving likelihood. It takes advantage of your big data to predict data that we don\'t have. This is one of the most widely used analytical methods for sales lead scoring, social media, and customer service management data [1, 3, 6].\r\n• Descriptive: It involves representing the request, \"What is happening?\" It\'s a stage in the information handling process that outcomes in a bunch of verifiable information. Information mining strategies sort out information and help in the disclosure of examples that give understanding. Clear examination gauges future probabilities and examples, giving a feeling of what could occur [1, 6, 21].\r\n• Prescriptive: It involves offering the conversation starter, \"What is probably going to happen?\" It estimates what was to come given verifiable realities. Everything revolves around foreseeing what\'s to come. Prescient examination investigations current information and makes situations of what could happen to utilize an assortment of approaches, for example, information mining and man-made reasoning [1, 9].\r\nVIII. BIG DATA TECHNOLOGIES\r\nBig data is a platform to generate massive data gathered from the user’s communication using digital devices such as tablets, smartphones, and laptops [11]. With the numeric figures of data gathered particularly from the huge data amount, facts of statistics are being generated among the digital devices to extract the value of social networks [14]. Below are some of the technologies;\r\n\r\n1. MapReduce: It\'s coding engineering created by Google in 2004 and executed in Hadoop for conveyed PC handling of huge measures of information. Information from unstructured record frameworks or organized data sets can be handled along these lines. A two-venture approach is reflected in MapReduce. A \"map\" step begins information handling by separating handling errands into subtasks and relegating those subtasks to different assets to wrap up. A \"diminish\" stage consolidates all completed subtasks into a solitary result and reports the discoveries [3, 16].\r\n2. Apache Hadoop: Doug Cutting and Mike Cafarella made Hadoop an open-source programming structure in 2006. It was planned from the beginning to deal with incredibly colossal information assortments. The Hadoop Distributed File System (HDFS) and MapReduce are the two significant parts of Hadoop. Hadoop\'s stockpiling part is called HDFS. Hadoop partitions documents into enormous blocks and conveys them among hubs to store information. Hadoop\'s handling motor is MapReduce. Hadoop processes information by conveying code to hubs for equal handling [3, 8, 18, 22].\r\n3. Apache Hive: It’s a Hadoop data processing engine that uses SQL. ETL jobs and SQL queries are processed in batches with Apache Hive. HiveQL is a query language used by Hive. HiveQL is based on SQL, however, it deviates from the SQL-92 standard in some ways [8].\r\n4. Apache Pig: Pig is a key Apache project that sits on top of Hadoop and gives a more significant level of language to interfacing with Hadoop\'s MapReduce library. Pig gives a prearranging language to depicting cycles, for example, information perusing, separating and change, consolidating, and composing, which are similar cycles about which MapReduce was constructed. As opposed to communicating these cycles in many lines of Java code that straightforwardly utilizes MapReduce, Apache Piglets permits clients to communicate them in a language like slam or Perl scripts [3, 21].\r\n5. Apache Spark: As a data analytics software, Apache Spark is rapidly gaining traction. It\'s an open-source cluster computing framework. Because it can analyse data up to 100 times quicker than Hadoop\'s MapReduce, Spark is commonly used as a replacement for Hadoop\'s MapReduce. Streaming information, AI, and intelligent examination are normal use cases for Apache Spark [3, 8].\r\n6. NoSQL Databases: These are intended for big volumes of dynamic data that do not necessitate a relational data model. Continuous admittance to information pieces, for example, Twitter tweets, Internet server logs, and security keys is a typical use [8, 12, 18].\r\nIX. BIG DATA ANALYTICS APPLICATIONS\r\nLarge information investigation is utilized in an assortment of businesses, including internet business, legislative issues, science and innovation, wellbeing, and taxpayer-supported organizations [5]. Organizations that are information-driven from an assortment of ventures exhibit the force of huge information by creating more precise forecasts and going with better choices [13, 15, 17]. By breaking down huge measures of information and uncovering stowed away examples, large information applications can help organizations in settling on better business choices. These informational collections could emerge out of web-based entertainment, sensor information, site logs, shopper criticism, etc. Large information applications are costing organizations a truckload of cash to find stowed away examples, obscure connections, market styles, buyer inclinations, and other helpful business information [6, 23, 24]. The following are some examples of domains where big data can be used:\r\ni) Government: The integration of big data into government processes allows for cost savings, efficiencies in agriculture, aviation, e-commerce, network safety and knowledge, wrongdoing forecast and avoidance, efficiency, and assessment consistency, in addition to other things [6, 23].\r\nii) Manufacturing: Prescient assembling can assist with improving proficiency and permit more merchandise to be delivered while decreasing machine free time. For such enterprises, a lot of information is required. High-level estimating calculations utilize a precise way to deal with revealing significant data for these datasets [6, 19, 23]. Coming up next are probably the main advantages of involving enormous information applications in the assembling business:\r\no Superior product quality,\r\no supply planning,\r\no Defective tracking\r\no output prediction, \r\no energy efficiency, \r\no testing and modelling of novel production processes, and \r\no large-scale manufacturing customization. \r\niii) Healthcare: Customized medication and prescriptive examination, clinical gamble intercession and prescient investigation, waste and care changeability decrease, mechanized outer and inner revealing of patient information, normalized clinical wording and patient libraries, and divided point arrangements are instances of how enormous information investigation has figured out how to assist wellbeing with caring framework upgrade [6, 19, 23].\r\niv) Education: As indicated by a McKinsey Global Institute report, there is a deficit of 1.5 million profoundly qualified information experts and directors, and a few schools, similar to the University of Tennessee and the University of California, Berkeley, have sent off expert projects to fulfil this interest. To address this need, confidential training camps have sent off programs, including free projects like The Data Incubator and premium projects like General Assembly [6].\r\nv) Internet of Things (IoT): The gadgets consistently create information and move it to a server every day. This information is mined to work with gadget interconnectivity. This planning can be involved by government associations as well as an assortment of organizations to work on their capacities. IoT is being utilized in savvy water system frameworks, traffic the executives, and group the board, in addition to other things [6, 23, 25],\r\nvi) Media and Entertainment: New organizations are being utilized by the media and amusement areas to make, publicize, and disperse their substance. Clients hope to have the option to get to advanced content from any area and whenever. The rise of online TV shows, Netflix channels, and other comparable administrations exhibits that new clients are intrigued by survey TV as well as by getting information from any area. Media organizations ideal interest groups by guessing what individuals need to see, how to target adverts, how to adapt content, etc. By investigating watcher ways of behaving, enormous information instruments are working on the payment of such media organizations [6, 23].\r\nX. WHY BIG DATA ANALYTICS IS NEEDED?\r\nHuge information examination helps organizations in bridging their information and recognizing additional opportunities. Accordingly, more brilliant business choices, more successful activities, expanded benefits, and more pleasant customers are the outcome [15, 19, 22]. \r\ni) Decision-making is both quicker and better. Organizations can examine data promptly - and pursue choices given what they\'ve realized - because of Hadoop\'s speed and in-memory examination, as well as the ability to dissect new wellsprings of information [6].\r\nii) New products and services. With the ability to utilize examination to gauge client prerequisites and fulfilment comes the possibility to give clients precisely what they need. As per Davenport, more associations are utilizing large information examinations to make new merchandise to satisfy the necessities of their clients [6].\r\niii) Cost reduction. With regards to putting away a lot of information, huge information innovations like Hadoop and cloud-based examination give massive expense reserve funds, as well as the capacity to reveal more successful approaches to carrying on with work [6].\r\niv) Big Data solutions: They\'re perfect for investigating semi-organized and unstructured information from an assortment of sources, as well as crude organized information [18].\r\nv) v) When business measurements of information are not predefined, Big Data arrangements are proper for iterative and exploratory examination [18].\r\nvi) Big Data is profoundly fit for taking care of data issues that don\'t fit perfectly into a standard social information base methodology to settle the main thing [18].\r\nvii) Time Savings: Devices like Hadoop and in-memory examination can rapidly track down new wellsprings of information, permitting firms to dissect information and pursue quick choices given what they\'ve realized [20].\r\nXI. BIG DATA ANALYTICS CHALLENGES\r\nThe greatest impediments to associations embracing large information examination are more administrative and social than specialized, with the principal boundaries being an absence of comprehension of how to utilize huge information investigation to further develop business execution and an absence of the board ranging from clashing objectives [13, 22]. As per different industry studies, associations utilize not exactly 50% of their organized information in decision-making, while under 1% of their unstructured information is examined or taken advantage of, 70% of workers approach information they shouldn\'t, and experts invest 80% of their energy finding and getting ready information [13, 19, 24].\r\n1. Leadership As per the board difficulties, undertakings that accomplish find success in the information-driven time have administration groups that decide points, tweak accomplishments and pose the right inquiries to be responded to by information experiences. Notwithstanding its mechanical methodology, the force of huge information can\'t be taken advantage of without vision or human knowledge. Thusly, heads of endeavours with a dream and the capacity to uncover future patterns and valuable open doors will act inventive and spur their groups to work proficiently to accomplish their objectives [21].\r\n2. Talented management: A term alludes to the course of Human capital with an elevated degree of specialized abilities to involve and take advantage of these innovations to accomplish exploitable data for end clients, essentially the C-suite, which is expected for undertakings to use information through large information examination. Insights, enormous information mining, ace perception devices, a business-situated disposition, and AI are among the novel capacities these individuals have. These are vital for gaining important bits of knowledge from huge information and adding to decision-making [13]. In any case, these people (information researchers, information examiners, etc) are unquestionably rare, thus there is a gigantic interest in them. Finding information researchers who are talented in both examination and subject information is troublesome. By and large, there are fewer information researchers available than are required [24].\r\n3. Decision-making Process and Quality. The nature of decision-making utilizing an information-driven system is a vital perspective in boosting the advantages of large information examinations. In this unique situation, components, for example, information quality from huge information sources, large information examination capacities, staff, and decision-creator quality are completely connected to decision-making quality [36]. The precision of large information sources is significant in offering high worth in decision making and keeping away from mistaken activities, while huge information examination abilities are connected to the utilization of the right philosophies and devices from enormous information examination specialists [24].\r\n4. Data privacy. Many individuals view information assortment as profoundly suspect. Huge information is an encroachment on their security for them. Advertisers are battling with purchasers\' view of information, as 71% accept that brands with admittance to their information are utilizing it unscrupulously, and 58% have not utilized any computerized administration because of protection concerns, which drive decisions about which applications to download, which email locations to share, and which online entertainment locales to interface with different sites. Thus, organizations should execute insurances to guarantee that information isn\'t taken advantage of to penetrate clients\' protection [7]. Information strategies, including protection, security, licensed innovation, and risk issues, ought to be dealt with in this method for augmenting the capability of huge information [24].\r\n5. Utilization of new technology. Numerous organizations that perceive the worth of information have created specialized abilities in business knowledge or potentially information warehousing, however, large information examination arrangements are exceptional and novel. Therefore, organizations should utilize existing methodologies and innovation to remove esteem from large information. Since these advancements are constantly developing, IT divisions ought to have the option to extend their abilities and remain current with progressing development. For instance, when data set programming doesn\'t empower huge information investigation, issues will emerge [24].\r\n','Suleiman, Muhammad Muhammad and Aliyu, Muhammad Bello (2022). Application of \r\nBig Data Analytics: Opportunities and Challenges. International Journal on Emerging Technologies, 13(1): 30–35.\r\n'),(5034,'125','Efficacy of New Generation and Combination Fungicides under in vitro for the Management of Anthracnose of Nutmeg (Myristica fragrans Houtt.)','Bommana Divya*, Heera G., Joy Michal Johnson, Radhika N.S. and Sreekala G.S.','207 Efficacy of New Generation and Combination Fungicides under in vitro for the Management of Anthracnose of Nutmeg _Myristica fragrans Houtt._ Bommana Divya.pdf','',1,'Anthracnose and fruit rot caused by Colletotrichum gloeosporioides is one of the major fungal diseases drastically reducing the yields of nutmeg. The information on practical application of new generation fungicides i.e, triazoles, strobilurins and combination fungicides in the perennial tree spice crops is limited and thus there is a need for developing a new management strategy with new generation fungicides. In this background, during 2019, a comprehensive and systematic survey was carried out in four districts of Kerala, namely Thiruvananthapuram, Kottayam, Ernakulam, and Idukki, to collect anthracnose-infected nutmeg samples. In the surveyed area, anthracnose symptoms ranged from necrotic spots with a prominent yellow halo to leaf blight or shot hole to fruit rot. Eighteen isolates of Colletotrichum sp. were obtained from anthracnose infected nutmeg and confirmed all the isolates as C. gloeosporioides. In the present study, the most virulent isolate is tested for in vitro efficacy of new generation (Propiconazole 25 EC, Difenconazole 25 EC, and Azoxystrobin 23 SC) and combination fungicides (Carbendazim 12% + Mancozeb 63 % WP and Trifloxystrobin 25% + Tebuconazole 55 % WP) at four different concentrations, namely 10, 25, 50, and 100 ppm, using the poisoned food technique. In vitro testing of new generation fungicides revealed that Propiconazole 25EC at 100 ppm and combination fungicides, Carbendazim 12 percent + Mancozeb 63 percent WP at 25 ppm; and Trifloxystrobin 25 percent + Tebuconazole 55 percent WP at 100 ppm, resulted in 100% inhibition of the mycelial growth of the pathogen. At 100 ppm, Difenoconazole 25 EC, Azoxystrobin 23 SC, and Captan 50 percent WP + Hexaconazole 5 percent WP inhibited mycelial growth by 69.33, 73.33, and 79.10 percent, respectively. Mycelial growth in fungicide-affected medium was either fluffy or cottony. Among the fungicides tested, Carbendazim 12% + Mancozeb 63 % WP inhibited pathogen mycelial growth even at low concentrations of 25 ppm, 50 ppm and 100 ppm with 100% efficacy indicating a promising direction for disease management while other fungicides were found least effective.','Anthracnose, Colletotrichum, Fungicides, Management, Nutmeg','In the present study, among the six new generation fungicides used, carbendazim 12% WP + Mancozeb63% WP was found to be most effective in inhibiting the growth of the mycelium even 100% even at a low concentration of 25 ppm and 50 ppm. This treatment was found to be significantly superior to all the other fungicides used for the evaluation. Arbendazim 12% WP + Mancozeb 63% WP among combination fungicides and Propiconazole 25 EC among the triazole fungicides were found effective in managing the anthracnose disease of nutmeg. The future line of work should include molecular variability between various isolates, cross infectivity among the isolates in other perennial hosts, and the efficacy of new generation fungicides under field condition.','INTRODUCTION \r\nNutmeg (Myristica fragrans Houtt.) is a perennial evergreen tree spice native to Indonesia\'s Moluccas islands and a member of the Myristicacea family. It is known as a twin spice because it produces two products, nutmeg from seed and mace from seed covering, both of which are used as spices due to their flavour, aroma, and fragrance. When used in small amounts, it has medicinal properties that aid in the relief of diarrhoea, vomiting, dizziness, and other symptoms. Nutmeg has a high market value for value-added products such as nutmeg syrup, nutmeg jelly, and nutmeg candy. India is the largest exporter of nutmeg, in which Kerala, Karnataka, Tamil Nadu, Goa and konkan are the leading producers. The production of nutmeg in India during 2016–17 was about 16,000 MT from an area of 23,000 ha (GOI, 2017). Kerala contributes to a production of 13,746 tons from an area of 22,065 ha (GOK, 2017). \r\nVarious diseases, including leaf spot, thread blight, fruit rot, dieback, and twig blight, have an impact on crop productivity. Anthracnose, caused by Colletotrichum gloeosporioides, is one of the principal pathogens that causes significant economic loss due to fruit rot. It was first reported from Kerala in 1961 as an unknown species of Colletotrichum later confirmed as C. gloeosporioides by Nair et al. (1978). Current management strategy of anthracnose disease includes spraying of 1% Bordeaux mixture, biocontrol practices of applying Pseudomonas flourescens, Trichoderma etc. in which the complete management is not achieved. Considering the limitations in the practical usage of new generation fungicides i.e, Triazoles, Strobilurins and combination fungicides in the perennial tree spice crops requires a need for developing a new management strategy with new generation fungicides. Accordingly, to the above facts and research gaps, the present study was conducted with the main objective to identify the best treatment in the management of the anthracnose of nutmeg. \r\nMATERIALS AND METHODS\r\nIsolation of the pathogen, purification and maintenance of culture. The infected samples collected from different nutmeg growing areas were isolated using the standard procedure for tissue isolation. The isolated cultures were purified by single spore technique (Dhingra and Sinclair 1993). The purified cultures were maintained on Potato dextrose agar (PDA) slants. The pathogenicity was proved by artificial inoculation of Colletotrichum sp. into the healthy nutmeg leaves. \r\nScreening of fungicides. The C. gloeosporioides isolate was tested with different commercially available new generation fungicides i.e. two triazoles (propiconazole and difenoconazole), one strobilurin (azoxystrobin,) and three combination fungicides (carbendazim + mancozeb, trifloxystrobin + tebuconazole, captan + hexaconazole) by using poisoned food technique (Nene and Thapliyal 1993) at four different concentrations (10, 25, 50 and 100 ppm) (Table 1).\r\nC. gloeosporioides isolate was allowed to grow in the sterile petri dishes containing PDA medium for seven days. Double strength PDA medium of 50 ml and 50 ml of sterile water were prepared for the respective fungicides of different concentrations and autoclaved. Under aseptic conditions, pre-weighed fungicides of different concentrations were dispersed into the conical flasks containing 50 ml sterile water and shaken thoroughly for the complete dispersion of the fungicide. In case of soluble concentrate fungicides, the desired concentrations were taken out by using the micropipettes and allowed to dissolve in the sterile water by thorough shaking. Melted medium was mixed with sterile water containing fungicide. The amended molten medium was poured into the sterile Petri dishes and allowed to solidify. This method was repeated for the different concentrations of each treatment.\r\nAfter the solidification of the medium, mycelial discs of 5 mm diameter were cut by using the sterile cork-borer from the seven-day old culture plate. The mycelial discs were taken by flame sterilized inoculation needle and placed on the centre of the solidified PDA medium amended with the fungicide. Three replications for each concentration of different fungicides were maintained. A control plate inoculated with the pathogen alone and without the fungicide was maintained as control. The Petri dishes were then wrapped and incubated at the room temperature of 28+3°C. The radial growth of the pathogen was recorded when the pathogen in the control plate was fully grown and the percent inhibition by the fungicide was calculated. Percent inhibition of the pathogen by the fungicide over the control was calculated by the formula:\r\nPercent inhibition = C-T/C ×100\r\nWhere C= Radial growth of the pathogen in control plate in cm\r\nT= Radial growth of the pathogen in the treatment plate in cm\r\nRESULTS AND DISCUSSIONS\r\nIn vitro screening was carried out to find out the most effective fungicide against C. gloeosporioides by poisoned food technique. Different fungicides used in the experiment were Propiconazole 25 EC, Difenoconazole 25 EC, Azoxystrobin 23 SC, Captan 50% WP + Hexaconazole, 5% WP, Trifloxystrobin 25% + Tebuconazole 55% WP and Carbendazim 12% WP + Mancozeb 63% WP. These fungicides were evaluated at four different concentrations of 10, 25, 50 and 100 ppm. Present study of in vitro screening of new generation fungicides revealed that triazole fungicide Propiconazole 25EC at 100 ppm and combination fungicides, Carbendazim 12% + Mancozeb 63% WP at 25 ppm and Trifloxystrobin 25% + Tebuconazole 55% WP at 100 ppm concentration resulted in cent per cent inhibition of the mycelial growth of the pathogen. Difenoconazole 25 EC, Azoxystrobin 23 SC and Captan 50% WP + Hexaconazole 5% WP showed mycelial inhibition of 69.33, 73.33 and 79.10 per cent respectively at 100 ppm. (Table 3 and Fig. 1 and 2). Ashoka (2005) reported Carbendazim + mancozeb and benomyl showed cent per cent mycelial inhibition of C. gloeosporioides @ 0.025%, 0.005% and 0.1% from vanilla. Chandrakrant (2005) reported the triazole fungicides, propiconazole, difenoconazole and hexaconazole at 0.05 per cent had completely inhibited mycelial growth of C. gloeosporioides from black pepper. Similar results were reported by Jadhav et al. (2008) where Carbendazim + mancozeb @ 0.25 per cent and propiconazole @ 0.1 per cent showed cent per cent inhibition of mycelial growth of C. gloeosporioides. However, the nature of mycelial growth of C. gloeosporioides (C4) in fungicide amended PDA medium presented and summarized in Table 2.\r\nPositive correlation of result of the present study was reported from the in vitro studies conducted by Kurian et al. (2008). They reported effective control of black pepper anthracnose isolate of C. gloeosporioides using carbendazim + mancozeb @ 0.1 per cent. Prashanth et al. (2008) also reported pomegranate anthracnose caused by C. gloeosporioides was effectively inhibited by carbendazim + mancozeb @ 0.2 per cent (100 per cent inhibition). Carbendazim + mancozeb (89.23%); and propiconazole and difenoconazole (90.78%) were also effective at 0.1 per cent concentration. The triazole fungicides propiconazole, difenoconazole and hexaconazole (0.1%) completely inhibited mycelial growth of C. gloeosporioides from sapota (Patil et al., 2010). Propiconazole and tebuconazole at 400 ppm effectively inhibited mycelial growth of C. gloeosporioides of mango (83.11% and 80.33% respectively) (Basalingappa, 2011). Azoxystrobin was totally ineffective in inhibiting the mycelial growth of C. gloeosporioides from nutmeg which was in contradiction to the observations made by Adhikary et al. (2013) who reported a mycelial inhibition of 99.69 per cent at 100 ppm concentration. Ahmed et al. (2014) reported the complete inhibition of C. gloeosporioides from betel vineeven at 50 ppm of propiconazole, tricyclazole and tebuconazole. \r\nIn vitro evaluation of various fungicides carried out by Dev and Narendrappa (2016) revealed that trifloxystrobin + tebuconazole 75 WG (100 ppm, 250 ppm, 500 ppm and 1000 ppm) and triazole fungicide propiconazole (500ppm, 1000 ppm and 2000 ppm) gave 100 per cent mycelial inhibition. Difenoconazole 25 SC (1000 ppm) showed a mycelial inhibition of 85.85 per cent. Strobilurin fungicide, azoxystrobin 25 SC (1000 ppm) was found to show a minimum mycelial inhibition of 52.64 per cent. Parvathy and Girija (2016) reported fungicides viz., propiconazole, tebuconazole, azoxystrobin and carbendazim + mancozeb, captan + hexaconazole each at 0.1 per cent completely inhibited the mycelial growth of C. gloeosporiodies causing black pepper anthracnose. Behera et al. (2019) evaluated the efficacy of carbendazim, mancozeb and its combination fungicide (carbendazim + mancozeb) along with the biocontrol agents in inhibiting the C. gloeosporioides from black pepper. Carbendazim + mancozeb @ 0.1 per cent exhibited a maximum inhibition of 97.26 per cent under in vitro conditions. The results of the study were similar with respect earlier authors. The results of the present study are in par with Asalkar et al. (2019) in which the fungicides carbendazim + mancozeb and propiconazole were found effective with 100% and 97.51% mycelial inhibition respectively. The results of cent percent mycelial inhibition by carbendazim + mancozeb is in agreement with the results obtained by Poonacha et al., (2020). Positive correlation of results is found with results reported by Marak et al., (2020). Least mycelial growth in fungicide amended media was recorded by combination fungicides carbendazim + mancozeb 0.1% and trifloxystrobin + tebuconazole 0.1% with 100% inhibition in which the results of coincides with the current study. Among the six fungicides, carbendazim 12% WP + mancozeb 63% WP was found to be effective in inhibiting the mycelial growth of the pathogen even at a lower concentration of 25 ppm. Propiconazole 25 EC was the most effective triazole fungicide against the anthracnose of nutmeg.\r\n','Bommana Divya, Heera G., Joy Michal Johnson, Radhika N.S. and Sreekala G.S. (2022). Efficacy of New Generation and Combination Fungicides under in vitro for the Management of Anthracnose of nutmeg (Myristica fragrans Houtt.). Biological Forum – An International Journal, 14(2): 1206-1210.'),(5035,'125','Bio-efficacy of different Botanicals against Leaf Blotch Disease of Turmeric caused by Taphrina maculans under In-vitro condition','Mukul Kumar* and A.K. Mishra','208 Bio-efficacy of different Botanicals against Leaf Blotch Disease of Turmeric caused by Taphrina maculans under In-vitro condition Mukul Kumar.pdf','',1,'Turmeric (Curcuma longa L.) is known as the \"golden spice\" and the \"spice of life\". It is also called the precious gift of nature and is often referred to as the ‘National Heritage’. Turmeric is highly susceptible to many fungal diseases namely, Colletotrichum leaf spot (Colletotrichum capsici), leaf blotch (Taphrina maculans) and Rhizome rot (Pythium spp.) are the most serious diseases leading to crop losses in various parts of the country. Among these diseases the leaf blotch caused by Taphrina maculans is a very important disease of the leaves of turmeric that causes a significant decrease in yield due to loss of photosynthetic properties. Turmeric yield losses due to disease have been recorded up to 37.6-52.9 per cent and becoming so colossal in some areas that turmeric cultivation has become uneconomical, especially where susceptible varieties were grown. Pathogen Taphrina is hemi-biotrophic naturally so, it is difficult to distinguish. The culture of the Taphrina species is inseparable from the yeast culture. Taphrina maculans were isolated from PDA media supplemented with amino acids and yeast extract and extracts from five botanical plants were tested under laboratory conditions to prevent their activity to prevent their radiation growth. All botanicals taken for investigation have significantly inhibited fungal growth compared to control, Neem leaf extraction showed less radial growth of the pathogen, thus providing a greater inhibition effect on the pathogen. Based on a recent study, a decrease in the toxicity of botanicals in T. maculans were Neem leaf extract>Pipli leaf extract>Brahmi leaf extract>Tulsi leaf extract>Surpgandha leaf extract.','Golden spice, spice of life, Botanicaslec tract, Taphrina maculans, Hemi-biotropic','Based on the last (final) observation, it may be concluded that neem leaf extract, pipli leaf extract and brahmi leaf extract may be used in the reducing the incidence of leaf blotch disease caused by Taphrina maculans in turmeric as well as in reducing the toxic chemical residue level in its rhizome. The descending order of fungitoxicity to T. maculans. The descending order of fungitoxicity to T. maculans by plant extract was as follows:\r\nNeem leaf extract >Pipli leaf extract >Brahmi leaf extract >Tulsi leaf extract >Surpgandha leaf extract.\r\n','INTRODUCTION \r\nTurmeric (Curcuma longa L.) is one of the most important spice plants grown in India. It is also an indigenous Indian plant. It is a well-known remedy often referred to as the ‘national heritage’ and also called the precious gift of nature. The rhizomatous herbaceous perennial plant in the family Zingiberaceae. It has various uses in flavouring, dyeing, drug preparation, cosmetics and medicine (Dixit et al., 2002). Turmeric is officially included in the Ayurvedic Pharmacopoeia of India, the Pharmacopoeia of the People\'s Republic of China and the Japanese standards for herbal medicines. The annual production of turmeric in India is approximately 59.86 lakh tons in an area of 892,213 hectares. In Maharashtra, the area cultivated by turmeric is 6146 ha with a production of 8,503 tons (Anonymous, 2021a). Leaf blotch disease caused by Taphrina maculans is a serious disease of the turmeric leaves causing a significant decrease in yield due to loss of photosynthetic properties. Poor crop production in the province is due to leaf blight caused by Taphrina maculans among other factors that impede its production. Disease loss of turmeric yields due to disease was recorded at 37.6-52.9 percent and increased so much in some areas that the cultivation of turmeric was not economical, especially where endangered species were cultivated. Leaf blotch disease caused by Taphrina maculans was reported for the first time from Rangapur, East Pakistan (Butler, 1911). Later, it was observed from all turmeric growing regions of the country (Upadhyay & Pavgi 1967). The individual spots are small, 1-2 mm in diameter and coalesce freely. In severe cases of attack, hundreds of spots appear on both the sides of leaves. The spots are discrete brownish black and mostly confined to lower leaves (Joshi & Sharma, 1982). Due to the proliferation of favourable environmental factors almost year-round and the growth of endangered commercial species in Bihar, the disease poses a serious threat to the cultivation of turmeric.\r\nMATERIALS AND METHODS\r\nCollection of Plant samples: Infected turmeric leaves that show common symptoms of turmeric leaf blight collected from various growing areas of turmeric in northern Bihar in 2017-18 were brought to the Plant Pathology laboratory and first detected under a microscope and back of that packaged under pressure eraser with a herbarium printing press and stored for re-testing at Tirhut College of Agriculture, Dholi, Dr. Rajendra Prasad Central Agricultural University, Pusa, Samastipur, (Bihar). Both signs and symptoms are closely monitored in the genetically infected areas and are recorded.\r\nIsolation of Pathogen. The culture of Taphrina maculans used during this study was divided into different categories of infected turmeric plant leaves collected from various fields of the farmer\'s farm and from the T.C.A. farm. Compass near the field of meteorology. To separate the pathogen from the leaf showing the obvious signs of infected parts and a thin line of healthy leaves are cut into small pieces 3 mm and the outer surface is sterilized with 1% sodium hypochlorite solution for one minute and washed three times with distilled clear water. Pieces showing yellow-brown blisters were placed in a damp room to produce ascus, which appeared to protrude from the cuticle within 2-4 days. Such pieces were attached to the lid of the Petri plates containing the P.D.A. the middle is composed of amino acids and 2% yeast extracted from Pertiplates allowing ascospores to be extracted from the existing area below. Plates are placed at 20 ± 2°C for 2-3 days. Spores were found to grow in small pink colonies at the end of 48 to 96 hours. This then followed sub-culture in P.D.A. plates through streaking. Pure cultures were obtained by continuing the sub-culturing expansion of isolated colonies performed 3-4 times.\r\nIdentification of the pathogen: The pathogen that was isolated from the cultural media has been identified with the help of an explanation developed by Pagvi and Upadhyay (1964) and Kulkarni and Ahmed (1968). The pathogen Taphrina maculans produced easily mutilated colonies such as yeast or bacterial colonies. As with all other studies studied to date, T. maculans have produced conidia only in cultures without mycelial growth and represent the asexual phase. In sub-culturing growth the growth was limited to the injection line but soon very small pink colonies appeared in the medium part untouched by the injection needle. These colonies remain isolated for a long time. This specialty was observed during sub-culturing, fungi produce bud conidia or blastospores which are sometimes disposed of outside the growing colony of individual colonies. The inoculum was prepared and sprayed on turmeric plants that had been planted for testing. The infected leaf of turmeric was used for recycling according to the normal procedure. The acquired culture was confirmed to grow in a real culture in which segregation was performed to prove pathogenicity.\r\nIn vitro evaluation of botanicals extract\r\nCurrent research is being done about the potential for plant varieties to show the effect of inhibiting the mycelial growth of the affected fungus under in-vitro conditions. Antifungal properties of various plant species, botanicals in three different concentrations were tested against Taphrina maculans under in vitro conditions using a toxic dietary process (Nene and Thapliyal, 1993). A total of 5 different plant species namely, Tulsi (Ocimum sanctum), Brahmi (Bacopa monieri), Neem (Azadirachta indica), Pipli (Piper longum), Surpgandha (Rauwolfia serpentina) without any disease were selected on their basis. Antifungal properties that have been previously reported and are readily available throughout the year. The leaves as parts of the plant are used for research in all cases of botanicals.\r\nPREPARATION OF AQUEOUS EXTRACTS OF BOTANICALS\r\nA sufficient number of new and healthy leaves for selected plant species were collected at the hi-tech horticulture nursery at Dr. Rajendra Prasad Central Agricultural University Pusa, Samastipur, Bihar was also brought to the Plant Pathology laboratory in T.C.A. Dholi, Muzaffarpur, Bihar for further studies. The leaves were first washed thoroughly under running tap water to remove any impurities that had stuck to the surface of the leaf. A sufficient amount of the selected plant leaves are immersed in a solution of sodium hypochlorite (1%) for 30 seconds and then thoroughly washed with clear pure water by washing three times. One ml of pure water used for each gram of fresh maceration ingredients One hundred grams of leaves per sample are then distilled in plain water (100 ml) in a grinding machine for 5-10 minutes. After careful grinding, the extract was first filtered through a three-fold muslin cloth and then by Whatman filter paper number 1. Later, the prepared extract was re-applied with a zeitz filter to free it from germs. This filtrate was taken as stock stock of aqueous aqueous extract and stored at 4OC for further studies. Streptocycline (200 ppm) was mixed as per the requirement to eliminate bacterial growth during fungus mycelium testing. Extraction was then used as a standard solution to extract the plant at 100% concentration or 1: 1 ratio. The inhibitory effects of aqueous extraction of plant extracts were tested against pathogens under investigation of food poisoning.\r\nPoisoned food technique against Taphrina maculans. The principle involved in this experimental method was to make the food a fungus toxicity with a botanicals drink with antifungal properties and to allow the test fungus to grow in the center and record mycelial laboratory inhibition. 6, 8, 10 ml of extracted plant was mixed in 94, 92, 90 ml of PDA medium, to prepare 6, 8 and 10% of plant extracts containing medium respectively. Approximately 15-20 ml of dissolved toxic PDA was poured into sterile Petriplates and allowed to harden. These Petriplates are then injected aseptically into the center of the Petriplates with a 5 mm wide mycelial disc cut with the help of a 5 mm cork borer inserted sterile in a space that lasts for 10-15 days separately. The surface of the inoculum disc was kept in an agar-shaped surface on the plates. Control plates are also grown under the same conditions in the PDA without the aqueous extraction of plant material. All these operations are performed under an aseptic state in the laminar air flow chamber. Three plates are injected into each fungus for all botanicals submerged in water. Plates were placed in the BOD incubator at a temperature of 20°C ± 2°C and detection was recorded.\r\nFollowing botanicals extract were evaluated for their relative efficacy against the pathogen in vitro.\r\nThe colony diameter were recorded and compared the control with treatment after 10 days of incubation. Formula given by Vincent (1927) was used to calculate the percentage inhibition of growth.\r\nPer cent growth inhibition \r\nWhere,\r\nI = Per cent growth inhibition\r\nC = Colony diameter (mm) in check plate \r\nT = Colony diameter (mm) in the treated plate\r\nRESULTS AND DISCUSSION\r\nThe data on radial growth of pathogen culture (T. maculans) with respect to different botanical aqueous extract (6%) at time intervals of 72 hrs. starting from 72 to 360 hrs. is presented in table 2. The data indicated that all the botanicals significantly inhibited the fungus growth compared to control in all observations made at different time intervals. Neem leaf extract exhibited \r\nminimum radial growth of pathogen in all the days of observation thus giving maximum inhibitory effect on pathogen. Effect of neem leaf extract was found statistically at par with tulsi at 72 hrs., brahmi at 216 and 218 hrs. and finally with pipli at 360 hrs. of observation. The next best botanical in terms of conferring inhibitory effect were found sarpgandha, pipli, tulsi and brahmi at 72, 144, 236, 288 and 360 hrs of observation respectively. Based on the last (final) observation, the descending order of fungitoxicity to T. maculans. The descending order of fungitoxicity to T. maculans by plant extract was as follows:\r\nNeem leaf extract >Pipli leaf extract >Brahmi leaf extract >Tulsi leaf extract >Surpgandha leaf extract.\r\nAqueous leaf extract of all the botanicals at 8 and 10 per cent strength showed complete suppression of radial growth and pathogen during the period of observation i.e., upto 360 hrs. of inoculation. \r\nTable 3 and Fig. 1 depicts the inhibition of mycelial growth (%) of pathogen by botanicals at different time intervals. The data revealed that aqueous extract of tulsi followed by brahmi gave maximum inhibition of mycelial growth (%) across all the days of observation registering 59.28 and 55.08 per cent mycelial growth inhibition on final day of observation (15 day after inoculation).\r\nThe result revealed that all the botanicals significantly inhibited the fungus growth compared to control. Initially the minimum (8.30mm) growth of the test- fungus was found in case of neem (6% extract) after 72 hours (3rd day) which further developed slowly and reached to 33.33 mm after 360 hours (15th day) while, in case of Tulsi (6% extract) radial growth observed after 72 are 9.00 mm and reached to 37.50 mm after 360 hours followed by sarpgandha 6% extract in which 9.70 mm radial growth observed which were reached to 38.67mm after 15th day. Neem leaf extract exhibited minimum radial growth of pathogen in all the days of observation thus giving maximum inhibitory effect on pathogen. Effect of neem leaf extract was found statistically at par with tulsi at 72 hours, brahmi at 216 and 218 hours and finally with pipli at 360 hours of observation. The next best botanical in terms of conferring inhibitory effect were found sarpgandha, pipli, tulsi and brahmi at 72, 144, 236, 288 \r\nand 360 hours of observation respectively depicted in plate 1. Based on the last (final) observation, the descending order of fungitoxicity to T. maculans. Aqueous leaf extract of all the botanicals at 8 and 10 per cent strength showed complete suppression of radial growth and pathogen during the period of observation i.e., upto 360 hours of inoculation. Singh et al. (2009) revealed that Maximum inhibition of fungal growth was recorded with extracts (25%) of Allium sativum (82.01%), followed by Azadirachta indica (79.90%), Curcuma longa (79.88%) and Zingiber afficinales (79.82%) in ethanol solvent. The least inhibition was recorded at 10% concentration of A. cepa (36.87%), followed by Ocimum sanctum (37.00%) in distilled water. Kothikhar and Koche (2017) earlier conducted a similar experiment on turmeric leaf spot caused by Colletotrichum dematium and evaluated three botanical extracts through poisoned food technique and found Azadirachta indica seed extract 5% as a superior botanical fungicides which inhibited 74.69% of mycelial growth. Jagtap et al. (2013) evaluated total eleven plant extracts under in vitro condition against C. capsici through poisoned food technique and recorded percent inhibition of mycelial growth of the fungus. Polyalthia longifolia exhibited maximum inhibition of 76.15% at 15% concentration followed by rhizome extract Curcuma longa with 66.88% and Allium cepa 63.96%. Whereas, Aegale marmelos and Parthenium hysterophorus showed minimum mean inhibition of 20.86 and 28.66%, respectively. \r\nKadam et al. (2022) reported after an extensive study that per cent germination of blastospore of Taphrina deformans were increased upto 20oC beyond which decline intheir germination were recorded. Kangjam et al. (2017) reported that garlic clove extract completely checked the growth of Colletotrichum capsici under in vitro condition. ','Mukul Kumar and A.K. Mishra (2022). Bio-efficacy of different Botanicals Against Leaf Blotch Disease of Turmeric caused by Taphrina maculans under In-vitro Condition. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 14(2): 1211-1215.'),(5036,'125','Adoption Behavior of Recommended Practices by Jasmine Growers of Madurai District in Tamil Nadu','M. Rajeshwaran*, A. Janaki Rani and C. Sabarinathan','209 Adoption Behavior of Recommended Practices by Jasmine Growers of Madurai District in Tamil Nadu M. Rajeshwaran.pdf','',1,'Jasmine is an attractive important commercial crop. It has got importance in all religious, social and cultural formalities and other functions performed by all people. The study was conducted in six villages of Thirupurangundram taluk of Madurai district with 120 jasmine cultivating farmers with proportionate random sampling method. Majority (62.50%) of the respondents having medium level of adoption. Regarding practice wise adoption, majority of the respondents adopted jasmine variety, suitable months for planting, propagation methods, weeding, pruning, management of budworm and ideal stage for flowering methods. Only 25.83 percentage of the respondents adopting recommended nematode control measures. It is observed that above half (53.33%) of the respondents adopting recommended Iron deficiency control measures. The technology adoption of jasmine cultivation by the jasmine growers has not received the attention of both the extension functionaries of State Department of Horticulture and Agriculture to the required level. ','Adoption, Recommended Practices, Jasmine growers','The study has clearly brought out that the majority of the respondents had medium level of extent of adoption 62.50 per cent regarding recommended jasmine practices. The results of the study had indicated that low adoption was noticed in management of nematode infestation and root rot disease due to lack of awareness and poor knowledge on these technologies. The extension officials and scientists may provide adequate awareness and knowledge through capacity building. Educational activities need to be intensified to make the farmers to adopt these practices. Irrigation is very necessary for the improvement of jasmine crop, Hence, the programmes relating to providing loans and subsidies to the farmers, specially to develop the source of irrigation need to be strengthened.','INTRODUCTION\r\nIndia is bestowed with diverse agro-climatic and ecological conditions which are favourable to grow all types of commercially important flowers generally found in different parts of the world. It also enjoys the best climate in selected pockets for floriculture during winter months. India is an enviable position to become a leader in the world floricultural trade because of the prevailing congenial location, overall favorable climate of liberalization and globalization and also specific incentives by the government and floricultural development. Flower production, consumption and trade have grown manifolds. Jasmine (Jasminum sambac) is one of the oldest fragrant flowers cultivated by man. The plants are grown both as shrubs as well as climbers. Jasmines are distributed both in the tropical and sub-tropical areas. Jasmine flowers are used for making garlands, bouquets, adorning hairs of women, in religious and ceremonial functions perfumed hair oils, attars, soaps, wines and drinks (Thakur et al., 2014). The high value export flower has also increased awareness for production of flowers among growers. Tamil Nadu holds number one position in producing of jasmine in India. The flowers produced in Tamil Nadu exported to the other countries like Sri Lanka, Malaysia, Singapore and Middle East countries. Tamil Nadu occupied more than two fifths of the total flower area in the state. The area and production of total flowers in India were increasing impressively over the years. More than 50 per cent of the floriculture units are based in South India mainly in Tamil Nadu Karnataka, and Andhra Pradesh. The main importing countries of Indian floricultural products in order are Netherlands, USA, Japan, Germany, Italy, Denmark, Egypt, Singapore, Switzerland and France. (State of Indian Agriculture 2013-14).The study results would help to reduce the information asymmetry that occurs between the producers and consumers.\r\nMATERIALS AND METHODS\r\nThe study was conducted in Thiruparankundram block in Madurai district of Tamil Nadu because of higher area of Jasmine cultivation. Nearly 120 Jasmine growers randomly selected and constituted for this study. Ex post facto research design was employed. Well-structured interview schedule was and prepared used for the study to collect data with the farmers.\r\nRESULTS AND DISCUSSION\r\nOverall adoption level. The categorization of respondents according to their overall adoption level on the recommended practices of jasmine cultivation is presented in Table 1.\r\nMajority (62.50%) of the respondents having medium level of adoption and 20.00 per cent of the respondents having high level of adoption and 17.50 per cent of them had low level of adoption on recommended jasmine cultivation technologies.\r\nOverall, the table revealed that majority of the respondents having medium to high adoption. The study area is a traditional area for jasmine having maximum area under the only one ruling variety Gundumalli or Madurai Malli. Hence the farmers have long years of experience in Jasmine cultivation leads to have medium to high adoption of recommended practices. Further, they had medium to high information \r\nsource utilization and medium level of innovativeness which motivated the farmers to have this level of adoption behaviour. The rest of the respondents (17.50%) expressed that while introducing any new innovation / technology, they were internally accepted. But when coming to the real stage of adoption, they are facing lot of constraints. This finding is in accordance with the finding of Alagar Raja (1982).\r\nPractice wise adoption level. The categorization of respondents according to their practice wise adoption level on the recommended practices of jasmine cultivation is presented in Table 2.\r\nVariety. Cent per cent of the respondents are adopting recommended jasmine variety called by many names like Ramanathapuram local (Jasminum sambac) or Gundumalli or Madurai Malliis the predominant and recommended variety in the study area. Thus, it could be stated that all the respondents were well versed with the selection of recommended variety. \r\nThere is only one variety available for farmers and there is no alternate for the farmers to select. The fragrance of the jasmine grown in this geographical area is somewhat superior to that of others because of the heavy accumulation of the smell causing alkaloids ‘Jamone’ and ‘Alpha Terpineol’. The laterite and red soils of this geographical area are rich in Sulphur which is the precursor of these alkaloids. More over presence of higher amounts of Potassium and the supplementary foliar spraying of Borax (Boric acid contains elements Boron) help the plant to deposit the produced alkaloids in flowers. The growers had a cultural and emotional attachment towards this variety which is known all over the state of Tamil Nadu. There were no need for growers to find some alternative variety, because of the long thick petals and long keeping quality. The research findings of Janakirani (1999) indicated that the jasmine growers did not favour varietal research as one of the prioritized research area since they were satisfied with the local variety. This might be the reasons for cent per cent adoption.\r\nPlanting. With regard to planting nearly cent percentage of the respondents are adopting recommended methods of propagation followed by suitable months for planting jasmine (86.67%), recommended pit size (73.33%), recommended spacing for jasmine (67.50%), ratio of FYM (57.50%) and recommended number of plants per hectare (55.50%).\r\nThe method of propagation is seedling. Hence, majority of the jasmine growers had adopted the cutting way of seedling method of propagation. June to November month was ideal for planting jasmine seedlings. As jasmine is being cultivated in the study area for a long period, majority of the jasmine growers would have the knowledge of planting months and selected the right season. \r\nThe practices like recommended number of plants per hectare (55.50%) and ratio of FYM (57.50%) were not adopted by much of them. Regarding the recommended number of plants majority of the jasmine growers based on their experience came to know that three to four plants per pit is giving quick establishment and hence they did not favour recommended density of planting. The unavailability of FYM in required quantity in proper time might be the reasons for less adoption on FYM. Hence, awareness has to be created for the farmers through extension functionaries on planting and alternate organic sources will improve the yield and which increase the soil fertility.\r\nIrrigation. With regard to irrigation, 58.33 percentage of the respondents are adopting recommended irrigation schedule. Irrigation schedule which directly or indirectly increase the quality of jasmine flower. The harvest of good quality flower depends on the amount of irrigation provided. Life irrigation is the practice which existed from time immemorial and known to the farmers through their ancestors. Similarly lack of irrigation due to drought situations would have prevented them from the adoption of recommended irrigation schedule.\r\nManures and fertilizer. In case of application of manures and fertilizer, 54.17 percentage of the respondent adopting recommended quantity of N,P,K per plant followed by 31.67 per cent of the respondents adopting recommended split dose of NPK.\r\nEven though the University scientist and State Department of Horticulture have been recommending straight fertilizer application, the respondents were seeking advice from local private fertilizer and pesticide shop and applying different complex fertilizers. Further, farmers were not showing interest in knowing the correct quantity of fertilizers recommended or soil test based recommendations. This might be the reasons for not adopting recommended fertilizer application.\r\nFoliar Spray. With regard to foliar spray nearly two third (64.17%) of the respondents adopting recommended spray for flower inducing and 61.67 percentage of the respondents adopting right time for spray.\r\nOff season flowering in jasmine in open field condition was induced by pruning the plant and foliar spray during last week of November. This facilitates early flowering, extended the duration of flowering, higher yield and good fragrance. Though, this practice possess abundant scope for prolific flowering, 64.17 percentage of the respondents adopting this technique but not in proper time. The officials of Department of Horticulture could find a training gap as for as this technology is concerned and some of the respondents were of the opinion that if the irrigation is maintained as per the recommendations, there is no need for using the foliar spray. \r\nWeeding. On weeding aspect 63.33 percentage of the respondents adopting recommended hand weeding schedule and 36.67 per cent of the respondents adopting recommended chemical weedicide.\r\nTwo-third (63.33%) of the jasmine growers adopted the recommended weeding schedule as they inherited from their ancestors about the weeding operation. 36.67 per cent of the jasmine growers were reported to use chemical weedicides when they felt the enormous weed growth. \r\nPruning. Pruning is an important for inducing side shoots and to increase flowering, which was adopted at right season by three fourth (75.83%) of the respondents. Only removal of top leaves and top pruning are practiced in the study area. Still there were some growers did not want to do pruning in order to get continuous harvest of flowers. The rest of the respondent were ignorant about the importance of pruning and should be sensitized by the extension agency through trainings. \r\nCrop Protection. In case of crop protection aspects 61.67 per cent of the respondents adopting recommended bud worm control measures followed by recommended root rot control measures (41.67%) and recommended wilt control measures (40%). Only 25.83 percentage of the respondents adopting recommended nematode control measures.\r\n As for as crop protection measures for jasmine is concerned two important problems namely bud worm and root rot were found to be serious. The findings indicated that the growers were adopting the recommended control measures ranging from 25-62 per cent. The economic importance of the pest, it is high time that plant protection scientist of KVK & Extension workers of State Department of Horticulture should join hands to impart knowledge and motivate the jasmine growers to adopt the management practices. This affects the quality of flower in the International markets.\r\nManagement of the problem, which needs to be filled by the extension agency. But the respondents reported that they used to spray whatever plant protection chemical offered by local input dealers and they reposed lot of faith on them rather than extension personnel of Department of Horticulture. This has resulted in most of the farmer’s ignorance about plant protection measures. \r\nPhysiological disorder. It is observed that above half (53.33%) of the respondents adopting recommended Iron deficiency control measures.\r\nThe non-adopted respondents were in the view that the iron deficiency was not that big problem which could affect flower production. Further, they reported that they used to spend huge amount on plant protection, which obviously discourage them to spend more on correcting iron deficiency.\r\nHarvest. The stage of harvest depends on the purpose of flowers to be harvested. For fresh flowers, fully developed unopened flower buds are picked in the early morning and evening. Picking of flowers after 11 a.m. will considerably reduce the yield and quality of the flower. \r\nIn case of harvesting 95.00 percentage of the respondents harvesting flowers on ideal stage. This might be due to the fact that all the respondents were aware of the importance of timely harvesting which would yield quality flowers and higher income. The practice had been inherited from their forefathers through several generations. This might be the possible reason for high adoption. \r\n','M. Rajeshwaran, A. Janaki Rani and C. Sabarinathan (2022). Adoption Behavior of Recommended Practices by Jasmine Growers of Madurai District in Tamil Nadu. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 14(2): 1216-1219.'),(5037,'125','Marketing of Vannamei (shrimp) in Andhra Pradesh – Management Appraisal','Potnuru Santosh Kumar*, J.S. Sonnad, K.V. Basavakumar, Vilas S. Kulkarni and Ashalatha K.V.','210 Marketing of Vannamei _shrimp_ in Andhra Pradesh – Management Appraisal Potnuru Santosh Kumar.pdf','',1,'In the transportation of produce (shrimp) from farmers to ultimate customers, marketing plays a dominant and essential role in aquaculture in general and inland fisheries in particular. As a result, a study of the marketing management and efficiency of vannamei (shrimp) in Andhra Pradesh has been undertaken. According to the study, each district has two marketing channels. Among that channel-II seemed to have the widest price range, at Rs. 71.69 per kilogram of shrimp, followed by channel-I at Rs. 57.01. The producers\' share of the consumer\'s rupee was maximum in channel-I, accounting for 77.53 percent, followed by 72.02 percent in channel-II, reflecting that the consumer purchase price in channel-II was higher than that in channel-I. Channel-II was a domestic marketing channel, marketing costs and margins borne by marketing functionaries were higher, which accounted for 13.33 percent of total shrimp marketing. According to Acharya\'s method, channel-I was the most efficient in terms of marketing efficiency for farmers, because the net price received by farmers in channel-I was greater than in channel-II. As per Shepherd approach, channel-II was the best in terms of market functionaries since the consumer purchase price in channel-II was greater than in channel-I.','Marketing costs, Margins, Price spread and Marketing efficiency','Farmers in the research area often sold their first crop to dealers and their second harvest to wholesalers, resulting in a greater price for channel-I farmers than for channel-II farmers. In all the districts, the producer\'s share of consumer rupee was found to be highest in channel-I, where traders involved in marketing channel, accounting for roughly 86.67 percent in shrimp. In price spread, however, the situation was reversed, with channel-II being higher than channel-I. Because it was a domestic marketing channel with local wholesalers, marketing expenditures and margins borne by marketing officials were higher in channel-II, which accounted for 13.33% of shrimp sales. In terms of marketing efficiency, channel-I was the best channel for farmers, according to Acharya\'s method, because the net price received by farmers in channel-I was higher than in channel-II. According to Shepherd\'s method, channel-II was the ideal channel for market functionaries because consumer buy prices on channel-II were higher than on channel-I.','INTRODUCTION\r\nAquaculture in general, and fisheries in particular, are key food production sectors in India, providing nutritional security, as well as livelihood support and gainful employment to over 14 million people and contributing to agricultural exports. Fisheries are regarded as a major economic activity and a thriving sector in India, with diverse resources and potentials spanning from deep seas to alpine lakes, and accounting for more than 10% of global biodiversity in fish and shellfish species. Since independence, the country has seen consistent and sustained increases in fish production.\r\n India has a long coastline, which allows for extensive use of marine resources. Fishermen in India used to engage in traditional sea fishing till a few years ago. In the 1970s, fisherman began focusing their efforts on gathering prawns, often known as\'shrimps,\' because of the enormous profit margins available due to their export value. During the 1990s, brackish and inland (fresh) water prawn farming exploded, particularly in the coastal districts of Andhra Pradesh and Tamil Nadu.\r\nShrimp farming has developed into a small-scale, traditional enterprise in Andhra Pradesh, particularly in coastal districts. Because of their export potential, shrimp culture production systems are more profitable than other culture systems. Tiger shrimp (Penaeus monodon) and Pacific white leg shrimp (Litopenaeus vannamei) accounted for more than 90percent of the overall Andhra Pradesh\'s farmed shrimp production.\r\nFisheries and aquaculture currently provide 1.07 percent to national GDP, whereas agriculture and related industries contribute 5.30 percent, with an average annual value of output of 43,720.98 crore and a quantity of 11,49,510 tonnes for fiscal year 2020-21 (Marine Products Export Development Authority (MPEDA)). The overall fish production in India in 2019-20 is expected to be 14.16 million metric tonnes, with the inland sector accounting for roughly 73.66 percent (10.43 million metric tonnes) and the marine sector accounting for around 26.34 percent (3.72 million metric tonnes). Andhra Pradesh state produces the maximum fish production in the country, followed by West Bengal and Gujarat (Anon, 2020a). Andhra Pradesh produced 41.74 lakh metric tonnes of fish in 2019-20, including 36.10 lakh tonnes from inland fisheries and 5.64 lakh tonnes from marine fisheries. Total shrimp production in Andhra Pradesh was 4.55 lakh metric tonnes during the year 2019-20, accounting for roughly 16 per cent of the state\'s total inland production. In the fiscal year 2019-20, the gross return from exports was 13.66 lakh rupees. East Godavari, West Godavari, Krishna, and Nellore are the well-marked inland fisheries cultivating districts. Approximately 90 per cent of the state\'s total inland fish production was produced in these four areas (Anon, 2020b).\r\nIn Andhra Pradesh, the inland fish marketing system is neither efficient nor contemporary, and it is primarily carried out by private traders with a lot of intermediaries between producer and ultimate/final consumer, reducing the producers\' (fishermen\'s) share of the consumer\'s rupee. The focus of this research was to get a snapshot of marketing costs, margins, and price spread for shrimp.\r\nMATERIALS AND METHODS\r\nEast Godavari, West Godavari, Krishna, and Nellore were the four districts chosen based on the largest inland fisheries production among Andhra Pradesh\'s districts. The districts mentioned above were selected for the study on intentionally. The study was entirely based on primary data acquired from fish farmers, traders, wholesalers, retailers, and vendors via personal interviews using a well-structured and pretested schedule created specifically for the study. Five intermediaries at each level, namely five dealers, ten wholesalers, ten retailers, and five vendors, were chosen from each district to analyse the marketing features. For the study, 30 market functionaries were identified from each district. Marketing channels, marketing expenditures, margin, price spread, and marketing efficiency were all considered in the study. Transportation costs, loading and unloading charges, icing, commission charges, weighing charges, and other charges all went into calculating the cost per kilogram.\r\nMarketing efficiency: Kohls and Uhl defined marketing efficiency is the ratio of market output (satisfaction) to marketing input (cost of resources). An increase in the ratio represents improved efficiency and a decrease denotes reduced efficiency.\r\nAcharyas approach: Acharyas approach is an ideal measure of marketing efficiency, particularly for comparing the efficiency of alternate markets/channels, should be such which takes into account of all the following:\r\nMME = FP / (MC + MM)\r\nMeasure of Marketing Efficiency (MME)\r\nTotal marketing costs (MC)\r\nNet marketing margins (MM)\r\nPrices received by the farmer (FP)\r\nShepherd Approach: Shepherd has suggested that the ratio of total value of goods marketed to the marketing cost may be used as a measure of efficiency. This method eliminates the problem of measurement of value added. The formula does not explicitly take into account the net margins retained by the intermediaries and net price received by the farmers in assessing the marketing efficiency. Shepherds formula assumes that marketing cost itself includes some fair margins of intermediaries (Acharya and Agarwal 1987).\r\nA better expression for Shepherd’s idea is: ME = V/I - 1 \r\nWhere, ME = Index of Marketing Efficiency \r\n V = Value of fish sold (consumer’s price)\r\n I = Total marketing cost\r\nRESULTS AND DISCUSSION\r\nMarketing channels\r\nInland fish/shrimp were transmitted from producers (farmers) to the final consumer through two marketing channels specified for each district.\r\nChannel-I: Farmer – Commission Agent – Trader – Wholesaler – Retailer – Consumer. \r\nChannel-II: Farmer – Wholesaler – Retailer – Vendor – Consumer. \r\nThe common procedure in all four areas was to sell the standing crop to a dealer through a commission agent. A \"sale at farm pond\" is a type of sale held at a farm pond. The majority of farmers sell their produce to traders via channel I rather than channel II.\r\nTable 1 shows the pattern of shrimp sales through various channels. The data shows that in the case of vannamei (shrimp), the majority of farmers favoured channel-I, with 80 per cent in East Godavari, 93.33 percent in Nellore, and 86.67 percent in each of the West Godavari and Krishna districts. In channel II, 20 percent come from East Godavari, 6.67 percent from Nellore, and 13.33 percent from each of the West Godavari and Krishna districts. Overall, 86.67 percent of shrimp respondents favoured channel-I, while 13.33 percent selected channel-II.\r\nMarketing costs, margins and price spread in marketing of vannamei (shrimp)\r\nTable 2 depicts the marketing costs, margins, and price spread in shrimp marketing in the research area, with the results revealing that producers sold their produce to dealers at the pond gate. In all four districts, channel-I got the farmer a better price than channel-II. In both channels, producers (farmers) did not spend any marketing costs.\r\nProducer selling prices in channels I and II in the East-Godavari district are 195.00 and 185.00 per kilogram, respectively. The dealers in channel-I paid 13.78/kg in marketing costs and made a profit margin of 5.21/kg. Wholesalers paid 213.99/kg for produce from traders in channel I and 185.00/kg for produce from farmers (producers) in channel II. In channels I and II, wholesalers spent 6.60/kg and 13.07/kg on marketing, with profit margins of 12.13/kg (channel-I) and 17.82/kg (channel-II). By incurring marketing costs of 7.02/kg and 8.14/kg, retailers got a margin of 10.26/kg in channel-I and 11.20/kg in channel-II. The vendor\'s selling price to customers in channel II was 255.00/kg after deducting marketing expenditures of 6.16/kg and realizing a margin of 13.61/kg. Producers possessed 78.00 and 72.54 percent of the consumer rupee in channels I and II, respectively. The price spread was between 55.00 and 70.00 rupees. In channels I and II, the Acharyas method had marketing efficiencies of 3.54 and 2.64, respectively, whereas the Shepherd approach had marketing efficiencies of 9.12 and 9.32 (Aswathy, 2014).\r\nTraders paid 197.17/kg for shrimp from growers in the West-Godavari district, while wholesalers paid 186.00/kg (Channel-II). The traders in channel-I incurred marketing expenditures of 15.74/kg and realized margins of 5.32/kg, respectively. Wholesaler marketing expenses were 8.43/kg and 12.33/kg in channels I and II, respectively, with respective profit margins of 10.20/kg (channel-I) and 16.85/kg (channel-II) (channel-II). Retailers paid 236.86/kg to wholesalers in channel-I and 215.18/kg to wholesalers in channel-II. By aiming for a margin of profit of 10.63/kg (channel-I) and 12.26/kg (channel-II), they incurred a marketing expense of 7.51/kg in channel-I and 7.80/kg in channel-II. Vendors paid 235.24 per kilogram for the shrimp from channel-II retailers. The marketing expenditures were 6.95/kg, with a profit margin of 17.81/kg and a final selling price of 260.00 per kilogram. The producers\' share of the consumer rupee was 77.32 percent (channel-I) and 71.53 percent (channel-II), while the price spread was 57.83 and 74.00 rupees, respectively. According to the Acharyas approach, marketing efficiency in channels I and II was 3.41 and 2.51, respectively, whereas according to the Shepherd approach, it was 8.05 and 9.60, respectively.\r\n In Krishna district, the traders paid 196.60 per kilogram in channel-I, with marketing costs and profit margins of 6.45 (16.45/kg) and 2.09 (5.33/kg) accordingly, and he sold it to the wholesaler for 218.38/kg. Wholesalers marketing expenditures and margins of profit in channel-I were 8.01/kg and 11.31/kg, respectively, with a selling price of 237.70/kg to retailers. The retailer bought the produce from the wholesaler and sold it to the final customer for $255.00 per kg. The retailer\'s marketing costs were 7.20/kg, and the profit margin was 10.10 per kg as a result of this approach. With a price spread of 58.40 rupees per kg, the producers share of the consumer rupee was 77.10 percent. The channel marketing efficiency was 3.37 (Acharyas approach) and 8.05 (Shepherd approach). The wholesalers\' purchase price, marketing costs, and margins for channel-II were 183.50, 12.08, and 18.58/kg, respectively. Retailers bought the produce from wholesalers for 214.16 per kg, with a cost of 7.95 and a profit margin of 11.10 per kg, and he sold it to the vendor for 232.21/kg, with costs and margins of 6.65 and 15.14/kg, respectively. The final consumer price in the channel was 255 per kilogram, with a producer share of 71.96 percent in consumer rupees and a price spread of 71.50 rupees per kilogram. The marketing efficiency was 2.57 (Acharyas approach) and 9.56 (Shepherd approach).\r\nProducers in the Nellore district sold their produce to dealers for 198.20/kg (channel-I) and wholesalers for 183.75/kg (channel-II). The traders in channel-I incurred marketing expenditures of 15.14/kg and realized margins of 5.33/kg. Wholesaler marketing expenses were 7.82/kg and 12.01/kg in channel-I and II, respectively, with respective profit margins of 10.19/kg (channel-I) and 17.61/kg (channel-II). Meanwhile, in channel-I and II, retailer marketing expenditures were 7.19/kg and 6.78/kg, respectively, while profit margins were 11.13/kg (channel-I) and 12.10/kg (channel-II), with a selling price of 255.00/kg (channel-I) and 232.25/kg, respectively (channel-II). In channel-II, the vendors\' marketing expenditures and margins were 7.10 and 15.65 per kilogram, accordingly, with a selling price to the public was ` 255/kg. Producers held 77.73 percent (channel-I) and 72.05 percent (channel-II) of the consumer rupee, while the price spread was 56.80 and 71.25 rupees, respectively. The marketing efficiency of the Acharyas method in channel I and II was 3.49 and 2.58, respectively, while the Shepherd method was 8.46 and 9.85.\r\n Overall producer selling prices in channels I and II were 196.74 and 184.56 per kilogram, respectively. The dealers in channel-I paid 15.28/kg in marketing costs and earned a profit margin of 5.30/kg. Wholesalers paid 217.32/kg for produce from traders in channel I, and 184.56/kg for produce from farmers (producers) in channel II. Wholesaler marketing expenses were 7.72/kg and 12.37/kg in channel I and II, respectively, with profit margins of 10.96/kg (channel I) and 17.72/kg (channel II). Retailers made a profit of 10.53/kg in channel I and 11.67/kg in channel II, with marketing costs of 7.23/kg and 7.67/kg, respectively. In channel-II, the vendor\'s selling price to customers was 256.25/kg, with marketing expenditures of 6.72/kg and a profit margin of 15.55/kg (Mahalakshmi, 2011). Producers\' share of consumer rupee was 77.54 percent in channel I and 72.02 percent in channel II, respectively. Similarly, the price spread was 57.01 and 71.69 rupees. The Acharyas method had 3.46 and 2.58 marketing efficiency in channel I and II, accordingly the Shepherd method had 8.42 and 9.58.\r\n','Potnuru Santosh Kumar, J.S. Sonnad, K.V. Basavakumar, Vilas S. Kulkarni and Ashalatha K.V. (2022). Marketing of Vannamei (shrimp) in Andhra Pradesh – Management Appraisal. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 14(2): 1220-1224.'),(5038,'125','An Analysis of extent of Adoption of good Agronomic Practices in Coconut Cultivation among Farmers of Ramanagara District','Pradeep Kumar T.L.*, M.V. Srinivasa Reddy and Akshay Kumar Kurdekar','211 An Analysis of extent of Adoption of good Agronomic Practices in Coconut Cultivation among Farmers of Ramanagara District Akshay Kumar Kurdekar.pdf','',1,'The present study was carried out in two taluks of Ramanagara district in Karnataka state during 2020-21 to assess the Extent of Adoption of good agronomic practices in coconut cultivation. A total of 120 coconut growers were interviewed for the purpose. The results revealed that 40.84 per cent of coconut growers possess medium level of adoption followed by low (34.16 %) and high (25.00 %) level of adoption, respectively. It was found that, cent per cent of coconut growers have fully adopted time of planting. Practice which is not adopted by cent per cent of coconut growers were Magnesium application. Other practices which are adopted partially by coconut growers were time of application of NPK (87.50 %), recommended water requirement in basin irrigation (67.50 %), management of rugosespiralling white fly (53.34 %), recommended dose of NPK (50.84 %) and recommended spacing (45.83 %).','Ramanagara, Adoption, Kalpavriksha','In order to get good yield, adoption of recommended technology by coconut grower is essential. Even with advancement of improved technology in coconut cultivation. It has been observed that either the same has not reached to field or farmers are reluctant to use this technology. There is need of recommended coconut production technology are being communicated to coconut grower though various extension programme and activities.','INTRODUCTION\r\nCoconut (Cocos nucifera L.) is one of the most useful tree. It is popularly called as ‘Kalpavriksha’ which means tree of heaven or tree of paradise because of its manifold uses. It belongs to family Arecaceae (palmaceae). It is estimated that about 12 million people in India are dependent on coconut sector in areas of cultivation, processing and trading activities. With an annual production of 17,000 million nuts, coconut contribution to nation’s GDP is about 15,000 crore rupees (Raghavi et al. 2019). India along with the two other major producers, Indonesia and Philippines accounts for 75 per cent of the world production. The productivity of coconut is the highest in India at 10,616 nuts per hectare followed by Indonesia (4,530 nuts) and Philippines (4,196 nuts) (Anon, 2018). Coconut is one of the major plantation crops in India with a total cultivated area of 2088 thousand hectares with a production of 22,167 million nuts which makes India stand 3rd in the world having 19.02 percentage of the area under coconut production. There is an increasing trend in the area, production and productivity of coconut in Karnataka state. Karnataka occupies second position (2018) accounting for an area of 518 thousand ha with a production of 4,326 thousand metric tonnes and productivity of 8,351 nuts per ha. In Ramanagara district, Channapatna and Kanakapura are the leading taluks in both area and production of coconut. The area under coconut cultivation in Ramanagara was 20,052 ha with a total annual production of 1283 lakh nuts and productivity of 6401 nuts per ha (Anon., 2019).\r\nMETHODOLOGY\r\nRamanagara district was selected purposively, because of its one of the major plantation crop. It is one of the major producers of coconut in Karnataka and also coconut cultivation is being taken up in almost all the taluks of the district. Ramanagara district has four taluks, out of which Channapatna and Kanakapura taluks were selected purposively considering the highest area and production. The top six villages having the highest area under coconut cultivation in Channapatna taluk and top six villages having the highest area under coconut cultivation in Kanakapura taluk were selected from the district for the purpose of the study. From each village, ten coconut farm growers were selected. Thus, from each selected taluk, sixty farmers were selected by using simple random sampling. The total sample constituted from two taluks was 120.\r\nRESULTS AND DISCUSSION\r\nA close look at Table 1 shows that, 40.84 per cent of coconut growers possess medium level of adoption followed by low (34.16 %) and high (25.00 %) level of adoption, respectively. The probable reason may be that, lack of knowledgeaboutimproved practices, lack of motivation and conviction to use innovations and non-availability of critical inputs at right time. The possible reasons for low level Adoption of the technologies by the coconut growers may be due to incorrect knowledge of the respondent sregarding recommended good agronomic practices. The findings of the study were in agreement with the findings of Bhati (2014); Akshath (2015); Nagappa et al. (2017).\r\nPractice-wise Adoption level: A glance at Table 2 shows that, cent per cent of coconut growers have fully adopted time of planting. Practice which is not adopted by cent per cent of coconut growers were Magnesium application. Other practices which are adopted partially by coconut growers were time of application of NPK (87.50 %), recommended water requirement in basin irrigation (67.50 %), management of rugosespiralling white fly (53.34 %), number of fronds in palm while selecting motherpalm for seednut (57.50 %), recommended dose of NPK (50.84 %) and recommended spacing (45.83 %). This might be due to, all coconut farmers followed the correct time of planting due to monsoon rains which is essential for proper root growth in seedling and majority of farmers have partially adopted the above mentioned practices due to the fact that farmers were not well aware about the importance of the practices and significant number of farmers expressed intercropping is also reason for partial adoption of recommended practices like NPK application, Spacing, basin irrigation, time of application of NPK similar result reported by (Alimul Islam et al., 2021) (Priya Bhati, 2014).\r\nMajority of the coconut growers had fully adopted intercropping (82.50 %), growing of green manure crop (79.16 %), selection of matured seednut (77.50 %) from motherpalm, selection of oblong shape and medium size seed nut (76.66 %) from motherpalm, correct age of motherpalm for seed nut selection (77.50 %), recommended yield capacity of motherpalm for selection of seednut (73.34 %), recommended pit size (62.50 %), recommended varities (58.34 %) and recommended spacing (54.17 %). These practices are simple, most important and crucial operations in production. Hence, majority of the farmers adopted these practices. \r\nA significant percentage of coconut growers have not adopted management of bud rot (87.50 %), growing of cover crop with in 2m surrounding of coconut (83.34 %), management of red palm weevil (62.50 %), management of eriophid mite (58.34 %), boron application (58.34 %), zinc application (54.17 %), anaberoga management (53.33 %) and controlling of rugosespiralling white fly (42.50 %). This may be due to poor knowledge about recommended technologies, non-availability of inputs in time, risk involved in treating of palm with chemicals for controlling diseases and pest leads to non-adoption. \r\n','Pradeep Kumar T.L., M.V. Srinivasa Reddy and Akshay Kumar Kurdekar (2022). An Analysis of Extent of Adoption of Good Agronomic Practices in Coconut Cultivation among Farmers of Ramanagara District. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 14(2): 1225-1228.'),(5039,'125','5’ Elements for Integrated Weed Management','Ravu Mohit*, Chijina K., Gangireddy Visweswar Reddy, Bannela Pavan Kumar, Rajnish Kumar and K.T. Sai Rithin Reddy\r\n','212 5’ Elements for Integrated Weed Management Ravu Mohit.pdf','',1,'Integrated weed management (IWM) is a systematic concept to weed management that incorporates distinct weed controlling approaches to focus on providing the crop a strategic advantage over weeds. Changes in management, such as tillage, time and rate of herbicide application, cover crops, and planting patterns, influence crop yields and weed interaction, according to IWM researchers. Understanding of IWM will be contingent on the recommendation of specific weed-management and crop-productivity-maintaining strategies; such investigation will and should proceed. Predictive techniques would make it easier to include IWM into models of activities that happen in agricultural systems at larger geographical and temporal dimensions, such as in agroecosystems, which are made up of species diversity and their ecosystem. In the current review we have highlighted the five elements which can successfully implement the INM.','INM, Diversification in time & space, Selection of Cultivar, Soil management, Control of weeds and Field Monitoring','This review spotted the five elements viz., diverse cropping system, cultivar selection management of soil at field conditions, controlling of weeds directly with herbicides and proper crop monitoring which plays vital role in effective integrated weed management. By proper alteration of spacing and the time of cropping the growth of weeds and the competition between the crop and the weed can be reduced. Adopting weed-recessive and crop-tolerant cultivars/varieties also involved in INM with prior position. Other management practices like late planting, high seed rates, maximizing the spacing between the rows and between the crop (plants). Soil management practices like primary tillage, secondary tillage, harrowing, mowing etc., also plays crucial role in INM by altering the soil structure through which the weed-roots distribution and fixation in the soil were disturbed, by altering the soil layers with tillage operations the weeds and weed growth will be reduced. The chemical approach with herbicides having appropriate combinations according to the type of weeds and type of crop provides the successful Integrated Nutrient Management. ','INTRODUCTION\r\nThe world\'s population has fast surpassed seven billion people, and by 2050, it is anticipated to reach nine billion (Young and Pierce 2013). Current agricultural production levels are insufficient to feed the world\'s rising population and satisfying this need might be a major problem for mankind (Westwood et al., 2018). Climate change, the shortage of arable land and water supplies, as well as the susceptibility of diseases, pests, and weeds(Wang et al., 2019), all contribute to the strain on agricultural systems, with consequences for sustainability, the planet, and the wellbeing of living creatures in the short and long term. Since the beginning of agriculture, weeds have been a constant hazard (Seelan et al., 2003).\r\nWeeds compete with crops for sunlight, water, nutrients, and area; thus, farmers must keep weeds under control to keep crop yields high. Most weeds are either mechanically managed with specific agricultural methods or chemically controlled using herbicides (Christensen et al., 2019). Intensive mechanisation, on the other hand, promotes soil erosion (Guccione and Schifani 2001), resulting in loss of soil fertility. The goal of contemporary weed control methods is to diminish the number of weeds to minimum. Among different agriculture pests (insects, Fungus and weeds) yield reduction is recorded maximum with weeds it can be controlled successfully by integrated weed management practice. The following five elements of weed control play a major role in weed management (Kudsk and Streibig 2003). The present excessive reliance on pesticides has raised environmental issues as well as human health problems. Herbicide usage has been linked to a deterioration in biodiversity (Storkey et al., 2012, Strandberg et al., 2017) and lead to the pollution of the ground water by leaching (Rosenbom et al., 2015).\r\nThe increased dependence on herbicides has had an indirect impact of Indian agricultural rotations, since the most favoured crops may be planted more often with less need on break crops to disrupt the life cycle of crop weeds. This has efficiently narrowed the biological niche of weeds, encouraging few but more competing weed species, and increasing reliance on a small number of herbicide active components effective against with the prevalent weed species. Apart from weed communities being less varied, certain weed species respond to the increased selection pressure by developing resistance or avoiding herbicide exposure (e.g., changed weed seedling emergence pattern in response to altering soil disturbance) (Heap, 2020). Diversification of weed control is required to minimize the negative environmental effects of herbicides and to limit the rising prevalence of herbicide resistance (Norsworthy et al., 2012). An effect is made to compile current knowledge of various tactics and technologies into a general framework for integrated weed management, i.e., a systematic integrated strategy that agronomists and weed scientists may utilise to develop new weed control strategies management solutions that are tailored to their individual situations (Mehandi et al., 2015).\r\nFive Elements of Weed Management. Among different agriculture pests (insects, Fungus, and weeds) long term management practices one required to control weeds. Furthermore, an advanced IWM strategy should influence weed population dynamics at various stages of their life cycle by: \r\n1) Preventing weed emergence from seeds or seed material.\r\n2) Reducing the negative effects of emerging weeds on the crop\r\n 3) Reducing the replenishment of seed or vegetative bud banks (Kudsk et al., 2020).\r\nIn the short term, any method can be effective in controlling weeds, but it may differ for species that can adapt to that approach. As a result, a combination of strategies is required to accomplish long-term weed management. Weed scouting, use of decision support systems, and high-tech sensing technologies are examples of cross-cutting monitoring and assessment activities that occur during the planting season and during the crop rotation period. These tools not only assist farmers in making intelligent decisions about which techniques to use, but they also aid in evaluating the effectiveness of previously used tactics and strategies. The elements provide a framework, which can be applied within an individual cropping season, But, more crucially, it can be utilised to make weed control planning easier throughout the entire cropping system. The strategies are generic, but they may be chosen and combined based on local Agro-environmental circumstances, technology and machinery availability, the farmer\'s socio-economic system, and the individual crops and cropping systems on the field. Agronomists, applied scientists, and advisers may utilise the framework to help farmers rethink weed management on their farms. Each of these aspects\' potential contributions, as well as their management alternatives, are now reviewed.\r\nThe life cycle and growth habits determine the crop and weed management practices to be adopted both in terms of time and technologies that may be used. Crop diversification will provide opportunities for the adaptation of various weed control strategies which may affect the weed species differently (Liebman et al., 2001). It was observed that agriculture productivity has been reduced due to higher weed diversity linked with varying fertilizer regime (Strokey and Neve 2018). Apart from enhanced weed management and reduced crop competition, diverse weed communities can also provide agroecosystem services including pollen and nectar for wild bees, alternate source of food for beneficial insects, and minimise soil erosion (Blaix et al., 2018).A diverse weed population will provide nutrients all around crop cycle and year, however crops can only provide these services during bulk blooming.\r\nElement 1- Diversification inSpace and Time\r\nCultivating two or more crops in the same field simultaneously for at least part of their growing season is known as intercropping (Wiley, 1990). Intercropping can include numerous cash crops, but it can also include a cash crop and a subsidiary crop, sometimes known as a crop that isn\'t harvested but is utilised as a living mulch. The spatial arrangement in which all the crops are placed can be used to categorise intercrops. Row, relay, strip intercropping, and mixed intercropping are all examples of intercropping techniques. Intercropping\'s potential benefit as a weed control strategy was recently proven by a meta-analysis, which found that weed biomass was 58 percent lower in intercrops than in poor weed suppressive crops. An additive design inhibits most weeds as compared to a substitution design (Gu et al., 2021). Live mulches are progressively being used in agricultural crops to control weeds and prevent soil erosion. Maintenance of the live mulch biomass throughout the dry season is critical in these systems, particularly in the arid Mediterranean area, to avoid struggle for water between the living mulch and the crop (Garcia et al., 2020). In intercropping system maintaining the population of live mulches one very difficult in arid regions since both the crop compete each other for water to meet the demand. Another issue with live/cover crops is destruction of their crop mechanically due to sowing of succeeding crop as well as aberrant weather condition. In both arable and horticulture crops, crop diversity can be achieved by adopting crop rotation and it will have a direct impact on weed competition. Adoption of various crop management practices such as planted or sown, mechanically, by senescence or frost will have an impact on weeds. Mechanical interventions, such as roller crimpers, along with flames, may help to destroy plants without the use of chemicals of broad-spectrum herbicides like glyphosate (Vincent-Caboud et al., 2019).\r\nCropping system diversity in time is primarily driven by changing crop rotation for both arable and horticultural crops. While the intrinsic features of certain crops (for example, competitive aptitude) will have an impact, Changes in crop rotation have a direct impact on weed communities. Changes in management procedures connected with various crops, such as sowing time and pattern, soil cultivation, fertilisation, and harvest time, will be indirect. As a result of crop rotation weed growth characters fluctuate from year to year, or even season to season. Weeds that develop in one crop will be less well suited to the following crop or will be chosen against by the crop\'s cultivation management procedures. According to a recent meta-analysis, crop diversification in terms of crop species helped weed control more than crop diversification in terms of planting dates (Weisberger et al., 2019)\r\nIncorporating a cover crop across two cash crops is a second sort of time-based agricultural diversification offers soil cover during a time because when soil would otherwise be barren or covered by natural plants. Cover crops are often planted to offer ecological systems such as enhanced soil fertility, control of soil-borne pest and disease, and erosion reduction. Depending on the properties of the chosen species, leaching and run-off, as well as enhanced soil structure, may occur. moreover, cover crops have the potential to suppress germination in the next cash crop, you can help with weed control (Schipanski et al., 2014).\r\nElement 2- Selection of Cultivar\r\nThere are two types of crop-weed interactions: a) competition for physical space and competition for resources including light, water, and nutrients (Bastiaans & Kropff 2017) and b) Allelopathy is the direct or indirect effect of chemicals released by plant or micro-organism on the growth and yield of other plant is known as allelopathy (Einhellig, 1995). Allelopathic interactions have been employed for millennia to favour the crop and prevent weed infestation without identifying the chemical basis of the phenomena. As herbicide alternatives shrink in the face of herbicide-resistant weeds, interest in allelopathy as a weed management strategy has grown. Alkaloids, Terpenes, phenols, sugars and non-proteinaceous amino acids are examples of allelochemicals (Lin et al., 2007). Plants having allelopathic capability are considered sustainable weed management options and a way to reduce dependency on pesticides (Appiah et al., 2015), therefore minimising herbicide resistance selection pressure. Allelopathic plants have also contribute to the discovery of novel herbicidal chemicals with novel MOAs (Duke, 2010).\r\nOne approach to reduce the need for direct weed management is to use weed-suppressive and tolerant crops and cultivars. Suppressive crop types of lower weed fitness, whereas tolerant varieties retain high yield levels under weed pressure but may not necessarily lessen weed pressure, perhaps leading to a weed population build-up (Hansen et al., 2008). As a result, suppressive cultivars should be included in an IWM approach since they aid in weed population management (Andrew et al., 2015). The possibility of combining cultivars with different phenotypes to limit the available functional space for weeds has also been investigated with some indication for reduced weed functional richness in barley cultivar combinations (Pakeman et al., 2020). However, there were no discernible impacts of cultivar mixing on weed biomass. The weight of data suggests that cultivars\' potential as a key tool in IWM. This might be due to the lack of genetic variation among current, high-yielding cultivars, and suppressive features should be included in future crop breeding attempts. A system that rates cultivars based on their ability to manage weeds, on the other hand, would encourage the adoption of weed suppressive varieties (Mehandi et al., 2013). Adjusting the sowing date, seed rate, sowing pattern, sowing depth, and the use of transplanted crops are further management strategies that might shift the crop-weed competitive relationship in the crops favour. The method of delayed planting in winter grains is employed to control grass weeds (Moss, 2017). Increased seeding rates have been shown to improve cereal weed resistance under low fertiliser input conditions (Lemerle et al., 2004), and the benefits of increased seeding rates have been noticed in combination with wider row spacing and inter-row weeding (Kolb et al., 2012).\r\nElement 3- Soil management in the field\r\nThis element includes primary tillage, secondary tillage, Nutrient, and water management. Traditionally, primary tillage is done at depths ranging from 15 to 35 cm (Kouwenhoven et al., 2002). Ploughing, particularly mould board ploughing, is thought to be one of the finest mechanical methods for controlling weed populations (Kouwenhoven et al., 2002), since it can bury weed seeds at a depth where they are unable to develop and eventually decay. Ploughing depths greater than 0.20 m produce the best results (Brandsaeter et al., 2011). Primary tillage with a chisel, disc, mouldboard, dual layer, and powered rotary ploughs can offer a foundation for IWM, particularly when perennial weeds are present (Brandsaeter et al., 2011). The method of tillage affects the distribution of weed seeds in the soil; seeds are more evenly dispersed all across the soil with a mouldboard plough, whereas seeds are mostly found in the topsoil layers with non-inversion tillage (Scherner et al., 2016). Ploughing (inversion tillage) contributes to weed management in different ways depending on the crop rotation & weed species (Ruisi et al., 2015). Rotational ploughing may be the best strategy, although the results will vary depending on the crop rotation and weed species.\r\nSecondary tillage activities are shallow than primary tillage operations and are used to prepare the seed bed and include inputs like fertilisers. They will manage any weeds if these procedures are done close to sowing. Weed seedlings have sprouted, while fresh weed seeds are being stimulated at the same moment. The early germination of crop creates additional flushes of weed seedlings growth. The use of shallow tillage operations on a regular basis can reduce weed densities by removing sprouting seedlings (De Cauwer et al., 2019). Emerging seedlings are commonly killed with non-selective herbicides, but if the goal is to reduce herbicide use, emergent weed seedling control can also be accomplished with superficial cultivation or non-mechanical instruments (e.g., flame weeding) to stop additional flushes of weed seedling germination and emergence (De Cauwer et al., 2019). Tillage should be shallower than the initial operation to minimise germination of future flush of weed seeds while employing mechanical weeding equipment (Lamour and Lotz 2007).\r\nDuring different stages of their life cycles, plants struggle for the resources they share (such as water and nutrients) (Holst et al., 2007). Weed species such as Chenopodium album in maize respond differently to changes in soil water level & availability of nutrients to crop plants (Krahmer, 2016).This knowledge can be used to improve the crop\'s growing environment while making them less conducive for the crop\'s principal weed species by directing resources in time and location. Soil moisture is one of the key environmental variables regulating seed germination and seedling of weed emergence in field crops along with temperature (Chauhan, 2012). In other words, in both conventional and reduced tillage systems management of nutrients and water can be used to manage weeds.\r\nElement 4- Direct control of weeds\r\nWhen indirect approaches to restrict weed development are insufficient to overcome agricultural yield losses and/or a grow of a weed population that could pose issues in subsequent crops, direct weed management instruments are necessary. Chemical herbicides, microbiological herbicides, mechanical tools, heat equipment, and electro weeders are some of the direct control instruments available to farmers, and they can be further subdivided based on their scale of operation (Riemens et al., 2008).\r\nHerbicides have been the basis of direct control of annual weeds since the mid-twentieth century, and broadcast application, either pre- or post-emergence, has been the favoured form of treatment until recently. Glyphosate, which is administered pre-sowing, pre-harvest, or in the stubble, is the most effective way to manage perennial weeds (post-harvest). One technique to overcome dosage reductions is to use band spraying in the crop rows, which may be used in conjunction with inter-row cultivation. If selective herbicides are not available, inter-row spraying of non-selective herbicides combined with mechanical instruments competent of intra-row weeding may be an option. Although site-specific herbicide application can help reduce herbicide use even further (Martin et al., 2016), these techniques are still under research and have only just been commercially accessible. \r\nMechanical weeding using harrows, inter-row cultivators, or mowers is a well-known technology that was widely employed in agriculture before herbicides took over and is now the most popular alternative to herbicide use for direct weed management. Inter-row cultivation techniques have advanced dramatically in recent years, and machine vision algorithms can now discriminate crop plants from soil and weed plants using a mix of light reflectance and crop row pattern recognition (Fennimore et al., 2016). This enables for weed management extremely near to the crop row, as well as control of intra-row weeds with certain inter-row weeders (Kennedy et al., 2020). Farmers can also use non-chemical approaches as well. Thermal weed management by burning, hot water/foam, and steaming has been extensively explored, but results are inconsistent, and thermal approaches are costly and need energy inputs 100–1000 times greater than tillage treatment (Coleman et al., 2019).\r\nIn recent years, harvest weed seed technologies, in which weed seeds are gathered and killed during harvest have gotten a lot of interest. The technique which was first created in Australia is now being researched in other regions around the world (Walsh et al., 2018). Efficacy is determined by the proportion of seeds left on the weed plants at harvest, which varies by weed species and year (Bitarafan and Andreasen, 2020). Surprisingly, the emergence of herbicide-resistant plants has forced the rediscovery of the oldest weed management technology, manual weeding, as a means of limiting the spread of resistant weed strains (Inman et al., 2017).\r\nElement 5- Field Monitoring\r\nUnlike a conventional herbicide-based weed management technique, IWM employs a variety of approaches, each of which has been found to have inconsistent and context-specific results. Evaluation processes are critical throughout the season for the farmer to determine the best weed control approach and adapt to the effectiveness of the strategies used. There are a variety of approaches and support tools available now, and technology is rapidly evolving to allow Integrated Weed Management including site-specific management at several levels. Before weed emergence, the farmer might use the field history to develop a preliminary weed control strategy. Many farmers are familiar with their fields and weed infestation levels, especially the most prevalent and difficult plant species. However, not all farmers apply this information in a systematic and active way. Some farmers utilise paper weed maps, while others employ a digitalized field management system that allows them to monitor observations on a variety of parameters. During season whenever the weed population is observable, the farmer can employ scouting plans to change the approach to the real weed situation, either on their own or in conjunction with a decision support system. In generally, manual reconnaissance is not done in a systematic manner, and there is a scarcity of literature on the subject. Scouting tactics are vital and have an impact on efficiency, as seen in Groundnut fields (Robinson et al., 2007). \r\nA manual direct control programme can be developed when a weed map is established, or the information can be transmitted to a decision support system for further automation. The approaches and goals of the various systems are quite different. While some prompt decision support system focused on determining the need for weed management, others tried to improve herbicide selection, dosage rate, timing, and sprayer equipment (Gonzalez-Diaz et al., 2020). Several new methods have been launched, with some decision support system focusing on assisting the farmer rather than presenting a list of exact solutions (Sanderskov et al., 2020). There are few decisions support system available for weed management in perennial crops and orchards, however in Spain, decision support system for Integrated pest management in apple and olive orchards were created and evaluated for detection of common diseases, insects, and weeds. It is critical to assess the tactics used and the plan in order to verify that management techniques are effective (Gupta et al., 2016). The data on successful and unsuccessful weed removal is equally relevant for future weed management. Farm management systems assist the farmer in keeping track of his or her operations. \r\nDecision support system work effectively for specific major pests, weeds, and illnesses in general. The number of characteristics necessary and the potential relationships grow too complicated to provide easy forecasts for entire populations or several pests. Rather developing decision support system that precisely forecast or explain system behaviour under various weed control situations, future decision support system should assist farmers in developing their IWM approach.\r\n','Ravu Mohit, Chijina K.,Gangireddy Visweswar Reddy, Bannela Pavan Kumar, Rajnish Kumar and K.T. Sai Rithin Reddy (2022). 5’ Elements for Integrated Weed Management. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 14(2): 1229-1235.'),(5040,'125','Insect Pests, Pesticides and their usage Pattern in Coriander in Tamil Nadu','Naveen, A. Suganthi*, K. Bhuvaneswari and P. Irene Vethamoni','213 Insect Pests, Pesticides and their usage Pattern in Coriander in Tamil Nadu Naveen.pdf','',1,'A systematic purposive random survey was undertaken to better understand farmers\' attitude on pesticide use and usage patterns in coriander from five main growing areas in Tamil Nadu, India. Coriander aphid, whiteflies, thrips and tobacco caterpillar were found to infest coriander crop among which coriander aphid is a major insect pest. For the management of aphid and other sucking pests, the most often applied pesticides were imidacloprid 17.8% SL, imidacloprid 70% WG, flonicamid 50% WG, acetamiprid 20% SP and monocrotophos 36% SL. Pesticide dealers are an important source of information for farmers when it comes to pesticide recommendations (61.33%). The Central Insecticide Board and Registration Committee has not given any recommendation of insecticides in coriander. Survey revealed usage of restricted pesticide and that insecticides usage was dominated by neonicotinoids followed by organophosphates and the newer molecule, flonicamid. Neonicotinoids are highly lethal to honey bees which play a major role is seed yield in coriander. Flonicamid recommended by CIBRC for management of all sucking pests in cotton may be a good alternative to neonicotinoids against pests of coriander.','Coriander, Survey, Pests, Pesticides, Neonicotinoids','Coriander being an important spice and leafy vegetable crop, more importance is required for the development of suitable integrated pest management practices. Implementation of policy regulations by authorities and training of farmers on judicious use of insecticides is needed to ensure quality and safe produce.','INTRODUCTION\r\nCoriander (Coriandrum sativum L.) also known as Chinese parsley, dhania or cilantro is an annual herb. Although all parts of the plant are edible, the fresh leaves with strong aroma and dried seeds (used as a spice) are more commonly utilised in India. Its name is derived from the Greek word koris, which means \"stink insect\". The presence of trans-tridecen in the oil of immature fruits and leaves produces a foul odour known as \"stink bug odour\" (Mandal et al., 2015). Coriander originated from Italy but today it is cultivated across the world including Central and Eastern Europe, the Mediterranean region, China, India, and Bangladesh (Baliga et al., 2015). It’s leaves, blossoms, seeds and roots are used to flavour rice, sausages and soups (Kumar et al., 2016). The coriander seed, in addition to its culinary application, has many medicinal importance and has been used to treat respiratory, digestive and urinary system illnesses. It has a wide range of pharmacological actions, including carminative, diaphoretic, and diuretic properties. Antihypertensive, antimutagenic, sedative-hypnotic, anticonvulsant, cholesterol-lowering, anticancer, anxiolytic, and anti-ulcer properties are also reported (Baliga et al., 2015: Nimish et al., 2011). Vitamin C, vitamin A, iron, manganese, thiamine, and dietary fibre are all abundant in coriander leaves while the seeds are rich in potassium, calcium, phosphorus, magnesium, sodium, and zinc. It’s essential oil and extracts have antibacterial, antifungal, and antioxidative properties, and thus help to extend the shelf life of foods by preventing rotting (Bhat et al., 2014). \r\nIndia\'s annual production of coriander seeds is over 710 thousand metrics (Horticultural Statistics at a Glance, 2018) that amounts to 80% of the total coriander seeds produced worldwide (Sharma et al., 2014).\r\nAmong biotic stresses, insects play crucial role in determining the yield of coriander. The insect pests that infest coriander are aphids, Hyadaphis coriandri, (Hemiptera: Aphididae), whitefly, Bemisia tabaci (Hemiptera: Aleyrodidae), thrips, Thrips tabaci (Swami et al., 2018). Other minor insect pests are cut worm, Agrotis spp. (Lepidoptera: Noctuidae), seed chalcid fly Systole coriander (Hymenoptera: Chalcididae) and tobacco caterpillar, Spodoptera litura (Satyagopal et al., 2014), pentatomid bug, Nezara viridula and storage pests Lasioderma serricorne and Trogoderma granarium (Butani, 1984). Mite pest, Petrobia latens was reported by Swami et al. (2018). Coriander, despite its importance as a vegetable, has not been well studied in terms of insect pest dynamics and pesticides usage pattern. With this background detailed survey was done to know pest incidence and pesticide usage pattern in coriander crop.\r\nMATERIALS AND METHODS\r\nA detailed survey was conducted in major coriander growing districts of Tamil Nadu, viz., Virudhunagar, Tiruppur, Coimbatore, Dharmapuri and Krishnagiri during November, December of 2021 and January, February of 2022.\r\nSurvey on insect pests and pesticide usage pattern in coriander. As information pertaining to crop production practices in coriander was meagre, a detailed survey was carried out to collect data on different elements such as pests incidence, pest severity, type of pesticide used, dose, frequency, type of sprayer used, source of information and safety precautions taken during coriander cultivation.\r\nDetails of study area. Major coriander growing districts of Tamil Nadu viz., Virudhunagar, Tiruppur, Coimbatore, Dharmapuri and Krishnagiri (Fig. 1). Furthermore, blocks and villages were selected in each district based on information obtained from office of the Assistant Director of Horticulture located in respective districts.\r\nNature and source of data. The information on pest and pesticide use pattern in coriander was collected from around 15 farmers from each district. A total of 75 farmers were questioned, and data was gathered using an appropriate questionnaire. Each district, block and village from where the survey was conducted is given in the Table 1. Face-to-face interaction was carried out with individual farmers in a casual manner with simple questions to collect the required information Fig. 3. The questionnaire had 43 items with 3 major parts that gives information about farmer, crop production practices, insect pests, type of insecticides used, insecticide use and spray pattern. The purpose of interaction and survey was clearly explained to farmers for their fair reply.\r\nQuestionnaire format had three major parts.\r\nPart 1: The farmers\' basic information (Name, age, education and family details)\r\nPart 2: Production information (Size of land area, crop data and previous crop grown)\r\nPart 3: Pesticides use information (Pest status, pesticides used, source of information, awareness about label information, pesticide details, dose, number of sprays, gap between sprays waiting period and safety precautions). \r\nMorphological identification of coriander thrips: Thrips were collected form coriander field from Coimbatore and preserved in 70% alcohol solution which was used for taxonomic identification. \r\nTo get a meaningful conclusion, the survey data was categorized according to requirement and data was analysed using various descriptive statistical tools like mean, percentage and standard deviation to analyse the factors influencing pesticide usage pattern.\r\nRESULTS AND DISCUSSION\r\nSocio-economic factors of surveyed farmers. Socio-economic factors of farmers is given in Table 2. Survey revealed that majority of farmers involved in coriander farming are males (77.33%) and females (22.67%). These findings are in line with the World Bank\'s data on female labour force participation rate which is around 26.2 percent (World bank, 2022). The average age of surveyed farmers was 46.62 ± 9.73. It is accordance with the results of input survey (DAC&FW, 2016) which indicates that the average age of Indian farmers was 50.1 years. According to the survey, the maximum number of operational land holders belonged to the age group of 51-60 years, followed by the age group of 41-50 years. Land holding of coriander farmers ranged from 0.08 to 3.6 ha with average land holding of 0.738 ± 0.43 ha. This result is in line with the report of policy note 2021, which states that average size of land holding in Tamil Nadu is 0.75 ha (GOTN Policy Note, 2021). Majority of the respondents (77.33%) were marginal farmers (below 1.00 ha.) that was consistent with the data of the Agriculture Census (DAC&FW, 2019) which reported that 68.45% of Indian agriculture landowners are marginal farmers.\r\nPest status in coriander ecosystem. The insect pests that infest coriander in different coriander ecosystems in Tamil Nadu are shown in Table 3. Present research survey revealed that aphids, whiteflies and thrips are the major insect pests attacking coriander crop. Thrips nymph and its damage symptom in coriander is given in Fig. 2. Coriander is attacked majorly by various sucking and few chewing insect pests. Aphids (Hyadaphis coriandri, Aphis gossypii and Myzus persicae), thrips (Thrips tabaci, Scirtothrips dorsalis and Frankliniella schultzei), seed wasp (Systole albipennis), painted bug (Bagrada hilaris) and tobacco caterpillar (Spodoptera litura) were reported to have pest status (Meena et al., 2017). The thrips infecting coriander crop in Coimbatore and Tiruppur region during the survey was confirmed to be Thrips spp. The species has to be confirmed again. District wise aphid problem was high in Tiruppur and Coimbatore followed by Krishnagiri and Dharmapuri. Again, aphid emerged as a serious problem across the insect pest spectrum infesting coriander. Swami et al. (2018) reported coriander aphid (H. coriandri) as a serious pest in coriander belt of India. In Krishnagiri, aphids and whiteflies were the major insect pests infesting coriander. In Virudhunagar, very less/no incidence of insect pests in was observed as said by farmers.\r\nDuration of coriander crop depended on the purpose of the crop. For leaf purpose, the crop was maintained for 30 to 40 days and for seed purpose, it varied from 90 to 100 days. Farmers of Virudhunagar and Tiruppur grew coriander crop mainly for seeds. In Dharmapuri, Krishnagiri and Coimbatore, coriander was mainly raised for leaf purpose. Most of the farmers of Tiruppur (93%), Coimbatore (100%), Dharmapuri (93%) and Krishnagiri (100%) followed monocropping whereas respondents of Virudhunagar (87%) followed intercropping with carom, Trachyspermum ammi.\r\nPesticides used in coriander ecosystem. Survey revealed that sucking insect pests are the major insect problem in coriander. The most common insecticides used for the management of sucking pests were imidacloprid 17.8% SL, imidacloprid 70% WG, acetamiprid 20% SP, acephate 75 % SP, flonicamid 50% WG, thiamethoxam 25 % WG and monocrotophos 36% SL (Table 4). Coriander crop is also susceptible to diseases like grain mould and powdery mildew which cause significant yield loss. To manage diseases, commonly used fungicides are carbendazim 12%+ mancozeb 63% WP, sulphur 85% DP and propiconazole 25% EC. Although the Central Insecticide Board and Registration Committee (CIBRC)has not approved any pesticides for the coriander crop, all of the above insecticides are recommended for the control of sucking insect pests in other crops (CIBRC, 2021). Out of 11 pesticides used in coriander in surveyed area, two were pre mix pesticides. The survey result shows the prevalent use of non-recommended pesticides for pest management in coriander. Insects that attack coriander may develop cross resistance if non-recommended premix combo insecticides are used. Insecticide usage in coriander crop is dominated by neonicotinoids followed by organophosphates. Neonicotinoids such as imidacloprid and thiamethoxam are highly lethal to honey bees (Decourtye et al., 2010). Again, neonicotinoids are odourless and tasteless chemicals which put the bee colony at risk of pesticide exposure (Sowmiya et al., 2022). Flonicamid, which is recommended by CIBRC for management of aphids, jassids, thrips and whiteflies in cotton may be a good alternative to neonicotinoids against pests of coriander. Monocrotophos which is banned for usage in vegetables (GOI DPPQ&S, 2022) is said to be used by majority of respondents of Tiruppur Dt. This indicates lack of awareness among the farmers and the failure of implementation of regulations.\r\nPesticide usage pattern in coriander ecosystem. Pesticide usage pattern of coriander farmers of Tamil Nadu is given in Table 5. Survey data indicated that over 61.33% of farmers get information on pesticide recommendation from pesticide retailers followed by fellow farmers (30.6%) and very less from extension functionaries (8.00%). Similar results were obtained by many other researchers (Shetty et al., 2010; Prakash et al., 2021; Satya Sai et al., 2019). The vast majority of farmers (52.63 percent) learned about pesticides through retailers (Satya Sai et al., 2019). According to survey findings, 98.67 percent of farmers used bottle caps to measure pesticides, while 1.33 percent measured insecticides, approximately. Pesticides are mixed with a stick by all of the respondents (100%). Only 8 percent of farmers paid attention towards the pesticide label. This is much less when compared with the results of Jallow et al. (2017) who reported 30 percent response towards label claim. Majority of respondents (89.33%) used no personal protective equipment while spraying the pesticides. Only 9.33 percent of respondents used mouth and nose cover during pesticide spraying and just 1.33 percent of respondents used gloves while pesticides mixing. This is comparable with the result of Sharifzadeh et al. (2017) which report that more then 75 percent of farmers don’t prefer personal protective equipment and the reason being low availability and high price.\r\nThe majority of responders (84.0%) used pesticides in approximate amounts, whereas the rest used pesticides at prescribed doses. Around 94 percent of respondents used power sprayer for pesticides application. Majority of respondents sprayed pesticides during morning hours. These results are in accordance with the findings of Meenambigai et al. (2017). In coriander, 136% increase in fruit yield was reported in open pollinated coriander crop in comparison with insect exclusion plots which revealed the importance of pollinator service. Among the insects habituating coriander, honey bees visited most (> 65%) during flowering period (Bhowmik et al., 2017). In this view point, farmers must be educated to take up insecticide spray during evening hours or before the blooming period and advised to go for selective insecticides with lesser persistence and higher safety to honeybees. \r\nOver 88.0 percent of respondents were unaware of waiting period after insecticide application. This waiting period allows to get a reside free produce. For disposal of the pesticide containers, 1.33 percent farmers followed burial in soil, 88.0 percent followed throwing in neglected area and 10.67 percent left empty containers/packets randomly in the field. These findings are comparable with results of Huici et al. (2017).\r\n','Naveen, A. Suganthi, K. Bhuvaneswari and P. Irene Vethamoni (2022). Insect Pests, Pesticides and their Usage Pattern in Coriander in Tamil Nadu. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 14(2): 1236-1242.'),(5041,'125','Constraints in Adoption of High-Density Cotton Growing System in Telangana','K. Sam*, D. Kumaraswamy, R. Vijaya Kumari and K. Supriya','214 Constraints in Adoption of High-Density Cotton Growing System in Telangana K. Sam.pdf','',1,'Cotton has now become well-known and grown all throughout the world and all the states of India. India\'s seed cotton production per unit area is still significantly lower than that of several other cotton-growing countries throughout the world. Two of the most prominent factors leading to the country\'s low cotton crop productivity are a lack of plant population and the use of low-potential cultivars. Several researches are conducted, including maintaining a sufficient plant density, employing the right number of fertilizers, applying growth regulators and so on and released some varieties which are suitable for high density planting system. \r\nThe study “constraints in adoption of High-density cotton growing system” was conducted in Telangana state, which consists of three agro climatic zones. From each zone one district was selected purposively for the study. From each district 30 HDPS cotton cultivating farmers were selected. A total sample of 90 farmers were selected. The research was conducted to know the farmers opinion, extent of adoption and constraints in the adoption of HDPS cotton. Among all the farmers, most of the farmers strongly agreed for High density planting cultivation is better and yield also more compared to normal cotton cultivation and disagreed for Gap filling and thinning was not followed in HDPS Cotton. The extent of adoption for HDPS cotton among the farmers are up to 50%. Based on the MSP (mean score position) among all the constraints, uneven rain falls (74.13), lodging effect (72.36), difficulty in weeding (67.46), unable to harvest at one time (62.46) and lack of sufficient irrigation (62.17) are the major constraints and high pest attack (29.96) and low education (30.93) are found to be the minor constraints in adoption of HDPS cotton. \r\n','HDPS cotton, constraints, farmers opinion, adoption, MSP (Mean Score Position), Telangana','From the results of opinion and extent of adoption of HDPS cotton, it can be concluded that, the HDPS growers in majority knew improved cultivation practices of HDPS Cotton but adopted to a moderate extent and most of the farmers opinion are, HDPS cotton cultivation was better compared to the traditional and pest attack also less. Furthermore, it was clear that as knowledge and adoption increased, there is a decrease in level of constraints faced by the HDPS Cotton producers (Manjula and Shashidhara 2017). \r\nIt can be further concluded that the constraints which were perceived most by the farmers in adoption of recommended production technology of HDPS cotton cultivation i.e., uneven rainfall, followed by lodging effect, difficulty in weeding, unable to harvest at one time and lack of sufficient irrigation water are the major constraint in adoption and High rate of pest and disease attack in HDPS, low education levels, lack of awareness of the HDPS cotton are the minor constraints. This suggests that extension agencies should make greater educational efforts, such as conducting training and demonstrations, to improve understanding and promote acceptance of High-density planting system in cotton. Training programs and demonstrations will make the farmers to get complete awareness on the technology and make them to overcome the problems which were occurred during the cultivation of HDPS cotton. \r\n','INTRODUCTION \r\nCotton, sometimes known as \"white gold,\" is one of India\'s most significant fibre crops, farmed all over the world. It has a significant impact on the national and international economies. It is mostly cultivated for its fibre, which is used to make textile for humans. Cotton continues to have a prominent position in the textile industry, due to competition from synthetic fibres (Jaffar et al., 2017). \r\nIn 2021-22, India produced 362.18 lakh bales of cotton on 120.69 lakh hectares, yielding 510 kg per hectare (Cotton Corporation of India, 2022). Maharashtra ranks first in acreage (42.86 lakh ha) and stands second in production (84.00 lakh bales). Hence, there is a lot of scope to maximise its production potential. \r\nSeed cotton yield per unit area in India is still much lower than in many other cotton growing countries across the world. Poor plant population and the usage of low potential varieties are two of the most important reasons contributing to the country\'s low cotton crop production (Bankar, 2008). To address these limits in cotton production, several approaches such as maintaining a sufficient plant density, using the optimum number of fertilisers, growth regulators, and so on are applied. \r\nPreviously, in India, Bt cotton was a technique that was well adopted by Indian farmers and had the ability to control in boll warming. Due to greater production costs farmers eventually resort to regular cultivars that provide normal yields (Navya and Venkataranganaika 2021). Cotton\'s optimal amount would, be determined by the plant variety. Generally, Cotton genotypes have a long maturation period of up to 200 days, are late maturing, tall growing, and spreading varieties, and have a bushy look. They also necessitate a wide spacing, leading in the formation of a netted canopy, which causes issues with plant protection, machine picking, poor solar energy trapping, physiological efficiency, and harvest index (Gomez et al., 1984). These types of varieties require more pickings because to their prolonged lifespan, resulting in a significant rise in the expense of cotton cultivation, particularly manual picking and a poor profit margin that fluctuates erratically. Furthermore, clean picking labour availability is a significant barrier. \r\nUnder these circumstances, high density planting system is ideally suited. They have a lot of potential for lowering row width as well as spacing between plants in a row. High density planting system is also known as Ultranarrow row (UNR). Cotton cultivation at high density is being examined as a possible technique for lowering production costs by shortening the growing season. Mostly High-density planting system is suited for early matured genotype. By using early matured genotype, reduces the cotton growing period and provides yield in a smaller number of days (Leena et al., 2018). That has the chance to go for another crop. Because of their small stature, these compacts also allow for an increase in plant density per unit space. It allows for double cropping as well as mechanical harvesting. These compact varieties have the additional benefit of just requiring a few pickings. As a result, labour and seed costs are reduced because formers will use varietal seeds in the next planting season. In UNR cotton, proper main nutrient rates are also critical for optimal lint yield while lowering input costs (Gadade et al., 2015). \r\nThis experiment was conducted to know about opinion, extent of adoption and constraints in High Density Planting System. Has most of the Indian farmers are interested in HDPS cotton, this experiment is used for further improvements. \r\nMATERIALS AND METHODS\r\nPresent study was conducted in Telangana state. In Telangana state there are three agro climatic zones. Based on the proportion of adoption, from each zone one district was selected. From each district two mandals and from each mandala two villages are selected purposively. From each district 30 HDPS farmers are selected. A total sample of 90 HDPS farmers are selected from three districts of three zones. HDPS farmers are selected based on the HDPS farmers list provided by the KVKs and DAATTCs of PJTSAU in the respective districts. The data was obtained by a personal contact approach using a scheduled interview schedule and the data was coded, categorised, tabulated, and analysed in light of the objectives and to make the findings practical for making relevant conclusions. \r\nApplication of the Garret’s Ranking Technique \r\nAn attempt is made to recognize the constraints faced by the growers in the cultivation of HDPS Cotton. The identified problems of growers in the cultivation of HDPS cotton are ranked by making use of Garrett’s Ranking Technique. The technique was used to rank the preference mentioned by the respondents on different factors and aspects of the HDPS Cotton cultivation process. It is used to figure out what the most influential factor was in the respondent\'s decision. Respondents were asked to rank various limitations and outcomes based on their influence using the Garret\'s Ranking technique, which was then converted into a score value and rank using the following formula: \r\nPercent position = Rij-0.5/Nj × 100 \r\nWhere, \r\nRij = Rank given for the ith variable by jth respondents \r\n Nj = Number of variables ranked by jth respondents \r\nThe percent position estimated is transformed into scores using Garrett\'s Table by referring to the table provided by Garret and Woodworth (1969). The scores of each individual are then combined for each factor, and the total value of scores and mean values of scores are determined. The most important factor is determined by the variables with the highest mean value. Below is the tabular representation of the constraints faced by the HDPS Cotton farmers in Telangana. The table is a random categorization of the constraints discovered through personal interviews and questionnaires. The table represents cultivators\' interests and rankings of the constraints they experience when growing HDPS Cotton. \r\nRESULTS AND DISCUSSIONS \r\nThe results are mainly obtained from the data which was collected from the respondents to know the opinion on HDPS cotton, extent of HDPS adoption and constraints faced by the farmers during the HDPS cotton cultivation.\r\nFarmer’s opinions about Cotton cultivation in HDP System. The results of farmers opinion about cotton cultivation in HDPS system were depicted in table-1. Based on the mean score, most of the farmers are strongly agreed that high density planting cultivation is better and yield also more compared to normal cotton cultivation and most of the farmers disagreed that single pickings is better compared to more number of pickings (Singh and Waris 2002). \r\nExtent of HDPS adoption by sample farmers. In extent of HDPS adoption, based on the percentage of farmers followed the recommended practices they are divided into three non adopters, partially adopters, complete adopters. A critical look at the data present in Table 2 revealed that the non adoption level of individual respondent in adoption of recommended practices showed in gap filling on the 10th day of sowing, partially adopted for summer ploughing to avoid perennial weeds and completely adopted for Land preparation by deep ploughing. Most of the farmers are motivated in adoption of technologies through training and demonstration so as they achieved maximum adoption level. The similar findings were reported by (Singh et al., 2017). \r\nConstraints in adoption of High-density planting system. The constraints in adoption of high-density planting system were ranked based on the mean score (Shinde et al., 2003). The data in Table 3 reveals that uneven rainfall (74.13), lodging effect (72.36), difficulty in weeding (67.46), unable to harvest at one time (62.64) and lack of sufficient irrigation water (62.17) is the major constraint in adoption and High rate of pest and disease attack in HDPS (29.96) low education levels (30.93), lack of awareness of the HDP System (31.32) are the minor constraints. ','K. Sam, D. Kumaraswamy, R. Vijaya Kumari and K. Supriya (2022). Constraints in Adoption of High-Density Cotton Growing System in Telangana. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 14(2): 1243-1247.'),(5042,'125','Genetic Studies on Variability, Heritability and Traits association for Green Fodder Yield and Quality in Fodder Pearl Millet [Pennisetum glaucum (L.)]','Subbulakshmi M.*, K.N. Ganesan, K. Iyanar, S.D. Sivakumar and V. Ravichandran','215 Genetic Studies on Variability, Heritability and Traits association for Green Fodder Yield and Quality in Fodder Pearl Millet [Pennisetum glaucum _L._] Subbulakshmi M.pdf','',1,'An experiment was done with 121 pearl millet germplasm accessions to determine genetic variability, heritability, and genetic advance, as well as the relationship between green fodder yield and other component traits. The PCV was slightly higher than GCV indicating little influence of environment on the expression of characters. High PCV and GCV were recorded for all the characters except days to 50% flowering, crude fibre, leaf length, neutral detergent fibre, acid detergent fibre, and dry matter content. High heritability with high genetic advance as per cent of mean for plant height, number of tillers per plant, number of leaves per tiller, number of nodes on main tiller, leaf length, leaf width, stem girth, leaf weight, stem weight, leaf to stem ratio, dry matter per cent, dry matter yield, green fodder yield, crude protein, crude fat, ash, crude fibre, acid detergent fibre, neutral detergent fibre except days to 50% flowering indicated the prevalence of additive gene action in their inheritance and hence the selection based on these traits would be quite effective. The traits viz., stem weight and leaf weight showed highly significant and positive association with green fodder yield and hence indirect selection for these traits would help the breeder to enhance green fodder yield in future breeding programmes.','Pennisetum glaucum, Genetic variability, Correlation, Path analysis','The evaluation of pearl millet accessions revealed that the traits plant height, number of tillers per plant, number of leaves per tiller, number of nodes on main tiller, leaf length, leaf width, stem girth, leaf weight, stem weight, leaf to stem ratio, crude fibre, acid detergent fibre, neutral detergent fibre, crude protein, crude fat, ash, dry matter content, dry matter yield and green fodder yield showed high heritability with high genetic advance as per cent of mean indicating the prevalence of additive gene action in their inheritance denoting the selection based on these traits to be quite effective. In association study, the traits, plant height, number of tillers per plant, number of leaves per tiller, number of nodes in main stem, leaf length, leaf width, stem girth, leaf weight, stem weight, leaf to stem ratio, crude protein and dry matter yield being positively correlated with green fodder yield and could be used as traits of interest for indirect selection to improve green fodder yield in further breeding programme.','INTRODUCTION \r\nPearl millet [Pennisetum glaucum (L.) R. Br.] is a diploid (2n = 14) species in the poaceae family. It is a fascinating dual-purpose crop that can be cultivated as a cereal or as fodder and possess a wide range of agronomically important traits that are adaptable to various agroecological conditions. It is commonly produced in marginal lands with low rainfall during the Kharif season (Vidyadhar et al., 2007; Bhoite et al., 2008) because of its ability to withstand drought and adverse agro-climatic conditions. The current production potential of pearl millet green fodder is relatively poor (Shashikala et al., 2013). Multi cut pearl millet varieties with excellent fodder yields must be developed to boost animal production (Harinarayana et al., 2005). Genetic improvement for quantitative traits in fodder pearl millet is dependent on the degree of variability for the desired traits in the base material, as well as the degree to which the desirable traits are heritable, and plays a significant role in selecting superior cultivars.\r\n GFY is a complex trait that is the result of activities and interactions of various traits; thus, understanding the relationship between yield and its components is all the more important. Understanding the pattern of variability, the inheritance of target traits, and the nature of character association is required for effective breeding strategies and successful selection for developing superior cultivars. In keeping view of above, the present study aimed to assess the magnitude of variability, inheritance pattern, and character association among contributing traits in 121 pearl millet accessions.\r\nMATERIALS AND METHODS\r\nThe experiment was conducted during the year of 2019 at new area farm of Department of Forage Crops, Centre for Plant Breeding and Genetics, Tamil Nadu Agricultural University, Coimbatore. The experimental material included 121 pearl millet genotypes which were evaluated in Randomized Block Design (RBD) with two replications. Each pearl millet accession was grown in two rows of four metres each with a 45 cm x 15 cm spacing, which was maintained by thinning/transplanting at the 3 leaf stage. To raise a healthy crop, the entire suggested agronomic package of procedures was followed. In each replication, five competitive plants were chosen at random from each genotype, avoiding border plants. \r\nPlants to be selected were tagged before initiation of ear emergence for recording the observations at the time of 50 per cent flowering on 20 quantitative and qualitative traits viz., plant height, number of leaves per tiller, number of tillers per plant, number of nodes in main tiller, leaf width, leaf length, stem girth, stem weight, leaf weight, leaf to stem ratio, crude fibre, neutral detergent fibre, acid detergent fibre, crude protein, ash, crude fat, dry matter content, dry matter yield and green fodder yield per plant. The Australian Fodder Industry Association (AFIS) laboratory procedures manual (http://www.afia.org.au) was used to estimate crude fibre, acid detergent fibre, neutral detergent fibre, crude protein, crude fat, and ash. \r\nPlant samples were taken at the time of panicle initiation, chopped, air dried, and then oven dried for two days at 60°C. The samples were crushed and sieved using various sieve sizes after being dried in the oven. Sieve size of 0.5 mm was used for estimation of neutral detergent fibre, acid detergent fibre, crude fibre, ash and 0.1 mm sieve size was used for crude protein and crude fat estimation. Crude fat by soxhlet method using petroleum ether and crude protein was estimated by Kjeldahl’s method while crude fibre, acid detergent fibre and neutral detergent fibre was estimated by using crude fibre apparatus by following the method made through in AFIS laboratory methods manual. The genetic parameters were computed using mean values, and data was statistically analysed for each character as reported by Panse and Sukhatme (1967). Burton (1952) suggested estimating genotypic and phenotypic coefficients of variation, while Falconer (1964) and Dewey & Lu (1959) suggested calculating correlation coefficients and path coefficient analyses, respectively.\r\nRESULTS AND DISCUSSION\r\nA. Genetic Variability\r\nThe development of an effective breeding programme is dependent on the presence of genetic variability, which provides basic information about the genetic properties of the population, the nature and extent of variability, the heritability of the characters, and genetic advance, all of which are used to formulate breeding methods for crop improvement. The analysis of variance revealed extremely significant differences among genotypes for all of the characters evaluated in this study, indicating that the pearl millet experimental materials have sufficient variability.\r\nThe PCV was greater than GCV indicating little influence of environment on the expression of characters (Table 1) (Fig. 1, 2). The evaluated pearl millet genotypes revealed that the greater PCV and GCV were obtained for 14 characters viz., PHT (28.520, 28.046), number of tillers per plant (28.015, 22.811), number of leaves per tiller (22.365, 21.900), number of nodes on main tiller (29.356, 24.186), leaf width (37.733, 32.874), stem girth (40.879, 36.010), leaf weight (48.382, 47.911), stem weight (26.485, 26.310), leaf to stem ratio (20.841, 20.117), dry matter yield (33.007, 30.853), green fodder yield per plant (32.173, 32.005), crude fat (43.006, 38.208), crude protein (23.957, 20.867) and ash content (39.003, 35.948) except for days to 50% flowering (6.906, 4.042), leaf length (23.119, 18.960), dry matter content (20.308, 16.734), crude fibre (15.451, 13.819), acid detergent fibre (16.300, 14.999) and neutral detergent fibre (14.045, 13.179). It revealed the presence of higher genetic variability and it suggests that the selection may be effective. Concomitant results for high GCV and PCV for plant height, total number of leaves, leaf weight, stem weight and green fodder yield per plant was also reported by Suthamathi and Stephen Dorairaj (1995); Vidyadhar et al. (2007); Bhoite et al. (2008); Kumar et al. (2017); Thomas et al. (2018) in pearl millet.\r\nModerate PCV and moderate GCV were observed for leaf length (23.119, 18.960), crude fibre (15.451, 13.819), acid detergent fibre (16.300, 14.999), neutral detergent fibre (14.045, 13.179) and dry matter content (20.308, 16.734) while low PCV and low GCV was found for days to 50% flowering (6.906, 4.042 respectively). Similar results for dry matter percent and crude protein, acid detergent fibre content was reported by Suthamati and Dorairaj (1997); Rahul Kapoor (2017) in Napier grass and Govindaraj et al., (2011) in pearl millet respectively.\r\nHeritable variation cannot be estimated with the help of GCV alone. Yield and its characteristics are significantly influenced by the environment, making it difficult to determine whether the observed variability is heritable or not. As a result, it\'s critical to separate the observed variability into heritable and non-heritable components. The precision with which a genotype can be determined by its phenotypic performance is referred to as heritability. Burton (1952) suggested that a combination of genotypic coefficient of variation and heritability estimations would be more efficient for selection. The kind of gene action influencing a given character can be determined by comparing heritability estimates and predicted genetic advance as a percentage of the mean. \r\nHigh heritability with high genetic advance as per cent of mean was observed for plant height (96.700, 56.816), number of tillers per plant (66.300, 38.262), number of leaves per tiller (61.700, 27.404), number of nodes in main tiller (67.900, 41.050), leaf length (67.300, 32.003), leaf width (75.900, 59.002), stem girth (77.600, 65.347), leaf weight (98.100, 97.736), stem weight (98.700, 53.842), leaf to stem ratio (93.200, 40.001), crude fibre (80.000, 25.460), acid detergent fibre (84.700, 28.431), neutral detergent fibre (88.100, 25.477), crude protein (60.600, 27.431), crude fat (78.900, 69.926), ash (84.900, 68.254), dry matter content (67.900, 28.404), dry matter yield (87.400, 59.409) and green fodder yield (99.000, 65.586). This indicated the lesser influence of environment in expression of these characters and prevalence of additive gene action in their inheritance and hence selection of these traits in breeding programme would facilitate the improvement of both fodder yield and quality. Similarly high heritability for these characters studied viz., number of leaves per plant, green fodder yield per plant was reports by Suthamathi and Dorairaj (1997); Babu et al. (2009) in Napier grass, Vedansh et al. (2010) in fodder maize and Sharma et al. (2003); Vidyadhar et al. (2007); Vinodhana et al. (2013) in pearl millet, Jain and Patel (2012) in fodder sorghum. Among the traits evaluated in pearl millet accessions, days to 50% flowering alone registered moderate heritability and low genetic advance as per cent of mean. High values for desirable variability, heritability, genetic advance as percent of mean were observed in the traits such as, plant height, number of tillers per plant, number of leaves per tiller, number of nodes on main tiller, leaf width, stem girth, leaf weight, stem weight, leaf to stem ratio, crude fat, crude protein, ash, dry matter yield and green fodder yield. It indicates that character-based selection might be quite effective and influenced by additive gene action. As a result, selecting these traits could help improve the yield and quality of green fodder in pearl millet.\r\nB. Correlation\r\nThe green fodder yield, which is finally harvested in a forage crop, is influenced by a variety of vegetative plant features. Knowing the relationship between biomass yield and other biometrical features, as well as the relationship between the component qualities themselves, would substantially aid indirect selection for high green fodder yield. In the present investigation, the traits, plant height (0.9399 0.9220), number of tillers per plant (0.9458, 0.7703), number of leaves per tiller (0.9218, 0.5800), number of nodes on main tiller (0.9582, 0.7948), leaf length (0.9309, 0.7711), leaf width (0.7733, 0.6702), stem girth (0.8456, 0.7486), leaf weight (0.9450, 0.9309), stem weight (0.9517, 0.9401), leaf to stem ratio (0.6902, 0.6631), crude protein (0.7979, 0.6163), crude fat (0.2745, 0.2356) and dry matter yield (0.8582, 0.8032) were found to exhibit highly significant and positive correlation at genotypic and phenotypic level while crude fibre (-0.3483, -0.3171), dry matter content (-0.3384, -0.2800) and acid detergent fibre (-0.1963, -0.1811) have registered negative and significant correlation at genotypic and phenotypic level with green fodder yield (Table 2). The obtained result coincided with the findings of number of tillers with green fodder yield by Mangat and Satija (1991) in fodder pearl millet and Khan et al. (2002) in Napier grass. Vijendra Das and Ratnam Nadar (1991) remarked positive association of green fodder yield with plant height, number of tillers and leaf length. \r\nPlant height inter-correlated positively with number of tillers per plant, number of leaves per tiller, number of nodes on main tiller, leaf length, leaf width, stem girth, leaf weight, stem weight, leaf to stem ratio, crude protein, crude fat and dry matter yield and negatively with crude fibre, dry matter content and acid detergent fibre. The positive inter-correlation between the number of tillers per plant, the number of leaves per tiller, and the leaf stem ratio suggested that indirect selection for these traits could assist in increasing green fodder yield besides providing more leaves, which would improve palatability and intake. Similar result was reported by Kumar et al. (2017) in fodder pearl millet. It is concluded that all the biometric traits and quality traits viz., crude protein, crude fat were studied in the paper are highly associated with green fodder yield. Hence, these traits are important during selection of high biomass plant. \r\nC. Path analysis\r\nPath analysis is a statistical method for dividing the total effect into direct and indirect effects (Wright, 1921). Because the component traits are interdependent, they frequently influence their direct relationship with yield, limiting the reliability of selection indices based solely on correlation coefficient. As a result, the association between the characters was examined in order to determine the direct and indirect effects. \r\nThe stem weight (0.4276) on green fodder yield has registered highest positive direct effect on green fodder yield, followed by leaf weight (0.3169) (Table 3) (Fig. 3). The result was in accordance with the results of Iyanar et al. (2010); Jain and Patel (2012) in fodder sorghum traits viz., number of tillers per plant, stem weight on green fodder yield had high positive direct effect. Therefore, these traits expected to have a true correlation and could be taken as component traits while selection for the improvement of green fodder yield. On the other hand, the traits viz., number of nodes on main tiller (-0.0520), neutral detergent fibre (-0.0240), ash (-0.0330) and dry matter content (-0.0482) showed negative direct effects. \r\nStem weight had high positive indirect effect through plant height (0.3744), number of tillers per plant (0.3973), number of nodes on main tiller (0.3809), number of leaves per tiller (0.4801), leaf length (0.3627), leaf breath (0.3185), stem girth (0.3407), leaf weight (0.3466) and leaf weight. Stem weight had low negative indirect effect through crude fibre (-0.1303, -0.1230) and dry matter content (-0.1006, -0.1422) on green fodder yield was observed. Leaf weight had moderate positive indirect effect for plant height (0.2937), number of tillers per plant (0.2695), number of nodes on main tiller (0.2988), leaf length (0.2938), leaf width (0.2375), stem girth (0.2597), stem weight (0.2569), leaf to stem ratio (0.2760), crude protein (0.2263) and dry matter yield (0.2547). The dry matter content can be increased through the selection of high tillering, leaf and stem weight. The remaining traits had negligible inter-correlation, while green fodder yield had none. Plant height, number of tillers per plant, number of leaves per tiller, number of nodes in main stem, leaf length, leaf width, stem girth, leaf weight, stem weight, leaf to stem ratio, crude protein, and dry matter yield may be responsible for increasing green fodder yield per plant, according to correlation and path analysis studies. These traits could be used as selection criteria in future breeding programmes to improve fodder yield and quality. \r\n','Subbulakshmi M., K.N. Ganesan, K. Iyanar, S.D. Sivakumar and V. Ravichandran (2022). Genetic Studies on Variability, Heritability and Traits association for Green Fodder Yield and Quality in Fodder Pearl Millet [Pennisetum glaucum (L.)]. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 14(2): 1248-1254.'),(5043,'125','Soil Fertility Mapping in Kaleshwaram Project Command Area of Erstwhile Karimanagr District, Telangana using GIS','V. Prasad*, T. Anjaiah, K. Pavanchandra Reddy and P. Laxminarayana','216 Soil Fertility Mapping in Kaleshwaram Project Command Area of Erstwhile Karimanagr District, Telangana using GIS V. PRASAD.pdf','',1,'The Present Investigation was directed to study the soil fertility status of command area under Kaleshwaram project in erst while Karimnagar district during post rainy season during 2019-2020, mainly concentrated in soil nutrient status and fertility mapping of study area by using QGIS to support future land use planning, it is necessary to investigate the fertility state of the kaleshwaram project command area of the erstwhile Karimnagar soil. Soil samples collected at 51 GCP locations after harvest of crops and were analyzed in the laboratory for soil quality parameters and the results were interpreted that soils are slightly alkaline pH (7.86), low level of salinity (EC 0.35 dS m-1), an average soil available nitrogen is low (221 kg ha-1), available phosphorus (123 kg ha-1) and available potassium (304 kg ha-1) are high. The DTPA extractable micronutrients- Zn (0.86 mg Kg-1) is marginal in availability, Cu (1.20 mg Kg-1), Fe (12.60 mg Kg-1) and Mn (15.03 mg Kg-1) are adequate in availability. From the results obtained in laboratory analysis, the soil fertility maps were generated by using QGIS software employing IDW interpolation technique wherein each parameter has been classified in to several classes.','Kaleshwaram Project, Erstwhile Karimnagar district, soil fertility map, RS&GIS','According to a study on the state of soil fertility in the former Karimnagar area, these soils are slightly alkaline pH, low level of salinity, have low to medium levels of accessible nitrogen, high levels of available phosphorus and low levels of available potassium. Zn, Fe, and Mn availability in these soils range from extremely low to good, whereas Cu availability is marginal to adequate. The soils in this study area have low levels of N, Zn, Fe, Mn, and Cu, which are the principal fertility constraints. These soils should be adequately managed and supplemented with the appropriate amount of organic and inorganic fertilizers.','INTRODUCTION\r\nAt present, the greatest challenge before Indian agriculture is to boost food production and productivity as well as sustainability of agriculture as a whole (FAO 2017). There are some problems that inflict limits on these goals which raise serious concerns on national food security. These include deterioration of soil fertility, increase in cost of production, and low diversity of production systems (Gomiero, 2016). However, the need for improved crop productivity is more now than ever because of the increasing population and the consequent pressures from competing demands for land over time. Management of the fertility of Indian soils demands its build up of Soil fertility to enhance the capacity of a soil to supply essential nutrients to produce adequate food to feed the rapidly increasing population. Proper management of soil fertility mainly stress on careful identification of constraints of current deficiency status of nutrients and monitoring of changes in soil fertility to predict its deficiency. These deficiencies need to be alleviated through sound and proven practices of nutrients, water, crops and energy to soil management, so as to sustain food production at a reasonable level to ensure continual enhanced productivity in the future. Thus management of soil fertility vis-à-vis nutrient management at optimum level is one of the key factors in achieving high and sustainable productivity.\r\nSoil quality can be assessed by using remote sensing and GIS to generating maps of large areas helps in soil resources management and preventing soil degradation by using them optimally (Abdel Rahman et al., 2017).\r\nMATERIAL AND METHODS\r\nStudy area. The erstwhile Karimnagar district is located under Northern Telangana zone lies approximately between the latitudes 17° 50\' and 19° 05\' N and longitudes 78° 29\' and 80° 22\' E. Karimnagar district is bordered by Nizamabad district in the West, Madhya Pradesh State in the east, Adilabad district in the North,Warangal and Medak districts in the South. The general elevation is 280 m MSL. This district is forms a part of the Godavari river basin. The area under forest cover constitutes 21.50 % of total geographical area of the district (Ground water Annual report 2016). The average normal rainfall in the district is 991.8 mm and actual rainfall is 916.3, most (83%) of it is received during the south-west monsoon. Out of 5.31 lakh ha of net area sown in the year 2012, only 45 % is under irrigation by different sources. \r\nThe soils of erstwhile Karimnagar district are highly heterogeneous in nature. The major rock types occurring in the district are granites, gneisses, sandstone, limestone, shale, quartzite etc. The major soil types in this district are black soils (55%) and red sandy loam soils (45%).\r\nMethodology. For collection of soil samples 53 GCP location were pinned in respective study area by using GNSS viewer mobile application. Composite surface soil samples (0-15cm) were collected from fields of study area. The samples are air dried in shade and crushed with a wooden pestle and mortar, sieved through sieve (2 mm) and stored in properly labelled polythene bags for further analysis. The soil samples were analyzed in the laboratory for soil fertility parameters viz., soil texture, pH, EC (Jackson, 1973), available nitrogen (Subbiah and Asija 1956), phosphorus (Olsen et al., 1954), potassium, and DTPA extractable micronutrients (iron, manganese, copper and zinc) (Lindsay and Norvell 1978) by following the standard procedures. The results from laboratory analysis and location point files of Excel file are generated in ESRI shape file and imported in to QGIS software. Soil maps were generated using Inverse Distance Weighing (IDW) interpolation and employing kriging (Ravi et al., 2017) function for each soil quality parameter and the classes were assigned for the parameters based on standard USDA soil classification. Similar procedure was followed for the generation of all soil maps.\r\nRESULTS AND DISCUSSION\r\nThe soil data analyzed for pH, EC, soil available N, P2O5, K2O, Fe, Mn, Cu and Zn were presented in detail in the below sections. Based on the results of the laboratory analysis, a total of 8 soil quality maps were generated using the QGIS software.\r\nPhysico-Chemical Properties. Soil pH. The pH data of 53 sample locations are interpolated to generate maps are indicated that soils are slightly alkaline reaction (Fig. 2).The pH of the surface soils of different mandals of erstwhile Karimnagar district varied from 6.67 to 8.73 with overall mean value of 7.86 (Ravi et al, 2014). Low pH was noted in Korutla mandal (7.44) and high pH was recorded in Chandurthi mandal (8.24) soils (Table 2). The majority of soils in erstwhile Karimnagar district are neutral to strongly alkaline pH. Some soils in Mallapur, Raikal, Koratla and Konaraopeta mandals are neutral in reaction as depicted in Fig. 2. The observations on soil reaction of surface soils shown that 1.88% samples are acidic, 15.09% samples are neutral and 83.01% samples are alkaline in reaction (Table 1).\r\nSoil EC (1:2.5). The electrical conductivity of soils from study area of erstwhile Karimnagar district ranged from 0.11 to 1.05 dS m-1 (Table 2) with an overall mean value of 0.35 dS m-1. In general almost all soils of had low level of salinity and suitable for growing all crops. The observations on soil reaction of surface soils shown that 1.88% samples are acidic, 15.09% samples are neutral and 83.01% samples are alkaline in reaction (Table 1). Highest EC was recorded in Metpalli mandal (0.69) and least was in Konaraopet mandal (0.19) (Table 2).\r\nSoil available Macronutrients\r\nSoil Available Nitrogen. The available N in soils under study area of erstwhile Karimnagar district varies from 63 to 550 kg ha-1 with an overall mean value of 221 kg ha-1 (Table 2) which is lower than the critical limit suggested by USDA. The entire study area of erstwhile Karimnagar is low to medium in available nitrogen. Lowest nitrogen content recorded at Rudrangi mandal (119.70 kg ha-1) and highest was recorded at Korutla mandal (425.07 kg ha-1). Some soils from the Mallapur, Ibrahimpatnam, Koratla and Konaraopeta mandals are medium in available Nitrogen (Fig. 3). About 75.47% of samples out of 53 samples are fall under low available nitrogen (<280 kg ha-1) and 24.52% of samples are medium availability (280-560 kg ha-1) (Table 1). Similarly Ravi et al. (2017) reported 61.7% of 154 samples from rice growing area where under low N content. Madhavi et al. (2013) also reported that all mandals had low to medium nitrogen content in Nizamabad district.\r\nSoil Available Phosphorus. The available Phosphorus content of the soils from study area range varied from 5 to 322 kg ha-1 with an overall mean value of 123 kg ha-1. It depicted in Fig. 4 indicated that entire soils from study area are high in available phosphorus content except few soils from erstwhile Karimnagar (Fig. 4). The available P2O5 recorded least (43.63 kg ha-1) at Raikal mandal and was highest (205.85 kg ha-1) at Vemulawada mandal (Table 2). Similar results were reported by Ravi et al., 2017 in rice growing soils from erstwhile Karimnagar district. About 96.22 percent of erstwhile Karimnagar was delineated to have high available phosphorus and 3.7 percent of samples with low available phosphorus contents, respectively (Table 1).\r\nSoil Available Potassium. The available potassium content ranged between 135 to 630 kg ha-1 with an overall mean value of 304 kg ha-1 in soils collected from the study area of erstwhile Karimnagar district (Table 2.). The soils in this district are medium to high available K2O (Fig. 5). The results represented that 58.49 percent samples were contended with medium available soil potassium, while 41.50 percent of the regions were categorized as high available soil potassium, respectively. The highest available potassium was recorded at Ibrahimpatnam mandal (505.34 kg ha-1) and lowest was recorded at Metpalli mandal (155.52 kg ha-1) (Table 1). The similar results reported by Kamalakar et al. (2020) in sugarcane growing soils of Nizamabad district.\r\nSoil available micronutrients (Fe, Mn, Cu and Zn)\r\nZinc. The data presented in Table 2 revealed that available Zn content in soils from study area of erstwhile Karimnagar district varied from 0.23 to 2.01 mg Kg-1 with overall mean value of 0.86 mg Kg-1 (Ravi et al, 2014). The availability of Zn in study area of this district was very low to adequate. The lowest value of available Zn recorded at Metpalli mandal (0.36 mg Kg-1) and highest was recorded in Chandurthi mandal (1.28 mg Kg-1). About 3.77%, 35.84% 49.05% and 11.32% of samples are found to be very low, low, marginal and adequate in available Zn content respectively (Table 1).\r\nCopper. The amount of copper ranged from 0.24 to 6.72 mg Kg-1 in the soil of study area of erstwhile Karimnagar district with an overall mean value of 1.20 mg Kg-1 (Reddy et al., 2014). The lowest value of available copper recorded at Chandurthi mandal (0.39 mg Kg-1) and highest recorded at Raikal mandal (3.53 mg Kg-1) (Table 2). An average 18.86% and 81.13% samples are marginal and adequate in available Cu content (Table 1). Fig. 7 depicts that most of study area is adequate in available copper.\r\nIron. The DTPA extractable iron content in soil from the study area of erstwhile Karimnagar district are ranged from 2.03 to 43.23 mg Kg-1 with an overall mean value of 12.60 mg Kg-1 (Narsaiah et al., 2018). Lowest value of available iron recorded at Metpalli mandal (2.59 mg Kg-1) and highest was recorded at Konaraopet mandal (24.33 mg Kg-1) (Table 2). About 1.88%, 15.09%, 15.09% and 67.92% samples are fall under very low, low, marginal and adequate (Fig. 8) in available Fe content (Table 1).\r\nManganese. The available Mn content in soils from study area of erstwhile Karimnagar district varied from 0.87 to 40.71 mg Kg-1 with overall mean value of 15.03 mg Kg-1 (Kamalakar et al., 2020). The availability of Mn in study area of this district was very low to adequate. The lowest value of available Mn recorded at Kodimial mandal (1.80 mg Kg-1) and highest was recorded in Mallapur (22.67 mg Kg-1) (Table 1). The 5.66% samples are very low, 20.75% samples are low, 32.07% samples are marginal (Fig. 9) and 41.50% samples are adequate in available Mn content in soils (Table 1).\r\nCorrelation study from Table 3 reported that all the nutrients are positively correlated with soil reaction except Nitrogen , copper and Iron which are negatively correlated with soil reaction (r = -0.45, -0.03, -0.08) respectively (Table 3). Whereas Phosphorus, Potassium and Iron are negatively correlated with salinity (r = -0.31, -0.11, -0.24) respectively.\r\n','V. Prasad, T. Anjaiah, K. Pavanchandra Reddy and P. Laxminarayana (2022). Soil Fertility Mapping in Kaleshwaram Project Command area of Erstwhile Karimanagr District, Telangana using GIS. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 14(2): 1255-1262.'),(5044,'125','Evaluation of Pigeonpea Genotypes against Sterility Mosaic Virus (PPSMV) Disease','M. Dhanushasree*, A. Thanga Hemavathy, R.P. Gnanamalar and L. Karthiba','217 Evaluation of Pigeonpea Genotypes against Sterility Mosaic Virus _PPSMV_ Disease M. Dhanushasree.pdf','',1,'The experiment was carried out for screening of Sterility Mosaic Disease (SMD) resistant lines under glasshouse conditions. Seventy-four pigeonpea genotypes were evaluated along with susceptible national check ICP 8863 and resistant check CO(Rg)7 for SMD screening by leaf stapling method. Genotypes were monitored for disease incidence and scoring was done every 15 days interval. Based on the Percent Disease Incidence (PDI), the genotypes were classified into susceptible, moderately resistant and resistant. It was reported that only two genotypes viz., BWR 153 and CRG 16-07 showed resistant reaction with disease incidence ranging from 0.1 to 10%, while genotypes viz., ICP 7919, IC 339057, IC 74016, IPAE 15-05, AL 2250, CRG 16-01, PusaArhar 21-14, PusaArhar 21-27, BWR 253, ICP 9808 and ICP 7234 were moderately resistant with disease incidence ranging from 10.1 to 25%. The remaining genotypes were categorized as susceptible with disease incidence ranging from 25.1 to 100%. Genotypes viz., BWR 153, CRG 16-07, ICP 7919, IC 339057, IC 74016, IPAE 15-05, AL 2250, CRG 16-01, PusaArhar 21-14, PusaArhar 21-27, BWR 253, ICP 9808 and ICP 7234 will be utilized as donors in the production of high-yielding pigeonpea varieties.','Sterility Mosaic Disease(SMD), Eriophyid mite, Inoculum, Susceptible, Resistant','The above study concludes that out of seventy-four pigeonpea genotypes used for SMD screening, two genotypes were categorised as resistant ones, eleven genotypes were classified into moderately resistant and remaining sixty-one genotypes showed susceptible reaction as per the Percent Disease Incidence given by AICRP scale. Genotypes that had shown resistance to SMD will be used as prospective donors for the production of high-yielding pigeonpea varieties.','INTRODUCTION\r\nPigeonpea (Cajanus cajan (L.) Millsp is a valuable grain legume crop grown in the tropical and subtropical regions of the world (Varshney et al., 2010). Mature seeds contain 18.8% protein, 53% starch, 2.3% fat, 6.6% crude fiber and 250.3 mg 100 g−1 minerals (Ayenan et al., 2017). Productivity of pigeonpea is severely affected by several biotic and abiotic stresses. Of these biotic stresses of pigeonpea could result in complete yield loss. The pigeonpea sterility mosaic virus (PPSMV) causes sterility mosaic disease (SMD) often known as \"green plague of pigeonpea\". The symptoms include stunted growth, reduction in leaf size, mosaic mottling, chlorotic ring spots and cessation of reproductive structures in Fig. 3 and Fig. 5. PPSMV is one of the key biotic factors that causes high yield losses, poses a big challenge for pigeonpea production in the Indian subcontinent. According to reports, SMD causes an annual economic loss of $300 million in India alone (Patil and Kumar 2015). Variability in the sterility mosaic pathogen revealed the occurrence of five different isolates in India. Among them, three distinct SMD isolates have been characterized, viz., Patancheru, Bangalore and Coimbatore. Bangalore strains are the most severe, whereas, the Patancheru and Coimbatore variants are mild (Prabhavathi and Ramappa 2018). Pigeonpea is grown with minimal input; although chemical management of disease is effective, it is neither economical nor eco-friendly. Growing resistant varieties is one of the viable options of management to minimize economic losses. For better understanding of SMD, data on mite survival, host, host range and pathogen, as well as seasonal fluctuations in the mite population could be employed (Kaushik et al., 2013). The objective of this study was to find a genotype that confers wide and sustainable resistance to SMD.\r\nMATERIALS AND METHODS\r\nScreening of pigeonpea genotypes for SMD resistance was carried out in Department of Pulses, Tamil Nadu Agricultural University during rabi 2021-22. The materials used for the investigation includes seventy-four pigeonpea germplasms along with susceptible national check (ICP 8863) and resistant check (CO(Rg)7) obtained from Ramiah gene bank. The genotypes were sown in pots under glass house conditions given in Fig. 2a. Inoculum for Eriophyid mite was collected from susceptible check entry ICP 8863 (Maruthi) maintained at Department of Plant pathology, Tamilnadu Agricultural University, Coimbatore. The disease was transmitted through leaf stapling approach (Nene et al., 1976) shown in Fig. 2b. SMD infected leaf samples were gathered and examined under stereo zoom microscope for presence of Eriophyid mites (Aceria cajani), which transmits the SMD virus in Fig. 1. Collected leaf samples were stapled to the primary leaves of genotypes under screening. Mites from the diseased leaves moves towards healthy leaflets when the stapled leaf got dried. Plants were monitored for SMD incidence at 15 days interval from day after the first inoculation up to 90 days by counting the healthy plants (no mosaic symptoms) and diseased plants (with mosaic symptoms). Based on the disease development, the PDI was calculated using the formula\r\nNumber of infected plants\r\n \r\nAICRP scale was assessed to evaluate the genotypes against SMD and classified as resistant, moderately resistant and susceptible based on disease reactivity listed in Table 1.\r\nRESULTS AND DISCUSSION\r\nAmong the seventy-four genotypes screened for SMD along with national susceptible check ICP 8863 (Maruthi) and resistant (CO(Rg) 7) check with percent disease incidence given in Table 2. All the genotypes showed mild to severe mosaic ranging from 30 to 100 percent except CRG 16-07 and BWR 153. The genotypes viz., ICP 7919, IC 339057, IC 74016, IPAE 15-05, AL 2250, CRG 16-01, PusaArhar 21-14, PusaArhar 21-27, BWR 253, ICP 9808 and ICP 7234 were classified as moderately resistant with PDI ranging from 10.10 to 30 percent. Only two genotypes showed resistance reaction with 0-10 percent PDI listed in Table 3. Rest seventy-two genotypes showed mild to severe mosaic symptoms and were classified as susceptible ones. Relative and Absolute frequency were observed for seventy-four genotypes grouped into three reaction types listed in Table 3. Nearly 2.63 percent genotypes showed resistant reaction, 14.86 percent genotypes were found to be moderately resistant and 82.43 percent genotypes were classified under susceptible entries graphically represented in Fig. 4. Sharma et al. (2015) reported that eleven entries viz., ICP 3576, ICP 7869, ICP 9045, ICP 11015, ICP 11059, ICP 11230, ICP 11281, ICP 11910, ICP 14819, ICP 14976, and ICP 15049 were resistant to sterility mosaic disease. Joshi et al. (2017) discovered that out of total 188 RILs screened, 90 RILs showed resistant reaction to SMD infection, 98 RILs were susceptible and 33 RILs categorized as resistant lines which consistently showed 0 percent PDI. Bhaskar (2016) found that out of 60 entries screened for SMD resistance, eight entries viz., ICPL-87119, ICPL-2376, BDN-2, PT-4-307, CORG-9701, BSMR-736, GRG-811 and BSMR-853 showed resistant to sterility mosaic disease. Prabhavathi and Ramappa (2018) reported that all twenty-two IVT medium duration entries were susceptible to SMD, except Bahar, however only one IVT early duration entry, RKPV405-10, showed resistant reaction, while the others showed susceptible reaction. According to Tharageshwari et al. (2019), out of the ninety-four genotypes studied, only four genotypes, DPP 2-89, DPP 3-182, IC 22557, and ICP 3666 showed highly resistant reaction to SMD infection, whereas fifty-four genotypes showed highly sensitive reaction. Genotypes viz., CRG 16-07, BWR 153, ICP 7919, IC 339057, IC74016, IPAE 15-05, AL 2250, CRG 16-01, PusaArhar 21-14, PusaArhar 21-27, BWR 253, ICP 9808 and ICP 7234 were found to be SMD resistant ones and can be utilized as donors for resistant breeding program to reduce yield loss as compared to susceptible types.\r\n','M. Dhanushasree, A. Thanga Hemavathy, R.P. Gnanamalar and L. Karthiba (2022). Evaluation of Pigeonpea Genotypes against Sterility Mosaic Virus (PPSMV) Disease. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 14(2): 1263-1268.'),(5045,'125','Response of Integrated Nutrient Management on Growth, Yield and Benefit: Cost Ratio of Okra [Abelmoschus esculentus (L.) Moench]','Rudra Pratap Singh Gurjar, Ankit Kumar Goyal*, Sachin Kishor and Amar Singh','218 Response of Integrated Nutrient Management on Growth, Yield and Benefit Cost Ratio of Okra [Abelmoschus esculentus _L._ Moench] Ankit Kumar Goyal.pdf','',1,'Okra [Abelmoschus esculentus (L.) Moench] is one of the most important vegetable crop during the rainy and summer season, belonging to the Malvaceae family. The indiscriminate use of chemical fertilizers reduces soil fertility as well as soil health and causes environmental pollution. However, integrated nutrient management refers to maintenance of soil fertility and plant nutrient supply to an optimum level for sustaining the desired crop productivity through optimization of the benefits from all possible sources of plant nutrients in an integrated manner. Thus, the present study was conducted at Agriculture Research Farm, School of Agriculture, ITM University, Sithouli, Gwalior, Madhya Pradesh, India to assess the response of Integrated Nutrient Management on growth, yield and benefit: cost ratio of okra. The trial was presented with an RBD design with eight treatment combinations namely T1 - Control, T2 - 100% Vermicompost, T3 - 100% FYM, T4 - 75% RDF + 25% FYM, T5 - 75% RDF + 25% Vermicompost, T6 - 50% RDF + 50% Vermicompost, T7 - 50% RDF + 50% FYM, and T8 - 50% FYM + 50% Vermicompost. Test results revealed that the treatment T5 - 75% RDF + 25% Vermicompost was found to be the most advanced of all treatments in terms of growth and production parameter and it was followed by treatment T6 - 50% RDF + 50% Vermicompost and T7 - 50% RDF + 50% FYM. The benefit: cost ratio (B: C) was found to be the best in T5 - 75% RDF + 25% Vermicompost.','Benifit: cost ratio, FYM, INM, Malvaceae, Okra and Vermicompost','On the basis of present study it may be concluded that the application of 75% RDF + 25% Vermicompost have been proved best for increasing the growth, yield and yield attributing traits of okra as well as benefit: cost ratio. ','INTRODUCTION\r\nOkra is one of the most important vegetable crop during the rainy and summer season, belonging to the Malvaceae family. It is found in tropical and subtropical areas of Africa and also known as a lady’s finger or Bhindi. The okra plant is straight, annual green, with a red stem. The leaves are 10-20 cm long and wide, palmately lobed with 5-7 lobes. The flowers are 4-8 cm wide, with five white to yellow petals, usually with red or purple spots on the underside of each petal. The fruit is a capsule up to 18 cm long containing many seeds. It is often cross pollinated when natural pollination is about to extent of 81.75 – 90.61% has been reported (Adilakshmi et al., 2008; Akanbi et al., 2010; Akande et al., 2010).\r\nThe fresh and soft edible fruit contains 88% moisture and a large number of chemicals including vitamins A (88 IU), B (63 IU) and C (13 mg / 100 gm). Unripe okra fruit contains calorie energy (3100), protein (1.8 g), calcium (90 mg) and iron (1.0 mg) (Shiri et al., 2020). Okra seeds have a good fat content of 17.3% which is a nutritious ingredient in cattle feed. It has Ayurvedic healing properties. Its leaves are used to prepare an anti-inflammatory drug. It is an excellent source of Iodine control for goiter (Chadha, 2001). The tender fruit can be cut into small pieces, boiled and served with soup. Ripe fruit and stem containing raw fibres are used in the paper industry. The roots and stems are used to extract the sugarcane juice in the preparation of “gur”. The high iodine content of the fruit helps control goiter. Okra is said to be very useful in dealing with genito-urinary disorders, spermatorrhoea and chronic diarrhea. The value of a plant is enhanced by its extensive use. Dried seeds contain 14-23% good quality edible fats and 21-25% protein (Thamburaj, 2005). In many countries, the ripen seeds of okra are used as substitute of coffee particularly in Turkey (Mehta, 1959). In India, okra is cultivated nationally due to its unripe tender fruits, occupying more than 0.50 million hectares with a production of 5.8 million tons (Anonymous, 2011). In the world population is increasing due to this requirement of food is also increasing to meet out the requirement of food cultivation is largely depending on chemical fertilizers, pesticides, herbicides, etc. Results of increased production with the chemical farming have adversely affected the soil productivity and environment. The indiscriminate use of inorganic fertilizers has resulted in reduced nutrient uptake, low vegetable quality and deteriorating soil health (Agrawal, 2005). Natural manure is a reliable source of macro and micronutrients and is useful for improving soil, chemical and biological health, reducing nutrient loss, increasing nutrient uptake and absorption leading to continuous production without harmful residues, besides improving vegetable quality (Acharya and Mandal, 2000). It has been observed that the use of only natural fertilizers or inorganic fertilizers cannot maintain soil fertility and crop production. However, their composition appears to be higher than the individual components in terms of yield, quality and nutrient uptake (Kumar et al., 2017).\r\nAn integrated nutrient management system (INMS) can play an important role in stabilizing both soil health and long-term crop production, which can be achieved despite the combined use of all possible sources of nutrients. The combination of chemical fertilizers and organic fertilizers and biofertilizers can maintain soil health and soil fertility (Bhandari et al., 2012). Vegetables and the vegetable system show that vegetable crops respond well to the supply of nutrients through organic fertilizers and chemical fertilizers (Kumar et al., 2022).\r\nMATERIALS AND METHODS\r\nThe experiment was carried out during Kharif season 2018 at Agriculture Research Farm, School of Agriculture, ITM University Gwalior (M.P.), India. Gwalior is situated between 23° 10′ N latitude and 79°54′ E longitudes on an elevation of 197 meters above from mean sea level. The experimental was laid out in Randomized Block Design with three replications and eight treatments viz., T1-Control, T2 - 100% Vermicompost, T3 - 100% FYM, T4 - 75% RDF + 25% FYM, T5 - 75% RDF + 25% Vermicompost, T6 - 50% RDF + 50% Vermicompost, T7 - 50% RDF + 50% FYM, and T8 - 50 % FYM + 50% Vermicompost. The observations were recorded on growth characters like plant height (cm) was measured from soil surface to tip of the plant by using measuring scale, number of branches per plant, number of days taken to first flowering, number of leaves per plant, number of flowers per plant, number of days taken to first fruit set was counted manually. Yield and yield attributing traits like number of fruits per plant was counted manually, weight of fruits (g), yield per plant (g), yield per plot (kg), yield(t/ha) was measured by using weighing balance. The length of fruits (cm) was measured by using measuring scale. However, the aanalysis of variance was calculated by using a randomized block design was done for all the characters by ICAR-SPAR (Statistical Package for Agricultural Research).\r\nRESULTS AND DISCUSSION\r\nA. Growth parameters\r\nThe data on growth parameters like plant height (cm), number of leaves per plant, number of branches per plant, number of days taken to first flowering, number of flowers per plant, number of days taken to first fruit setting are presented in (Table 1). The integrated nutrient management exerted significant effect on all the growth parameters.From the experiment it was observed that application of treatment T5 - 75% RDF + 25 % Vermicompost produced maximum plant height (126.86cm), number of leaves per plant (45.04), number of branches per plant (6.36), minimum number of days to first flowering (33.82), maximum number of flowers per plant (20.86), minimum number of days to first fruit formation (37.48) it was at par with T6 - 50% RDF + 50% Vermicompost. This may be due to the continued release of nutrients during the growing period of crop. These findings clearly showed that vermicompost plays a key role in promoting the okra growth. The beneficial effect of vermicompost on plant growth may be due to the fact that worms make mineralized the macro and micronutrients during vermicomposting and are made available to cultivated plants for longer periods of time. In addition, they also improve soil structure, air permeability and water holding capacity of the soil. These results are closely related to the findings of Peyvast et al., (2007); Abduli et al., (2012); Vanmathi et al., (2012). \r\nIncrease in plant height as well as leaf number may be due to higher metabolic activity because of optimum nitrogen application resulting in higher production of carbohydrates and phytohormones, which were manifested in the form of enhanced growth. Vermicompost has been reported to contain a few stimulants for plant growth, enzymes, beneficial bacteria and mycorrhizae (Gupta, 2005). Therefore, high nutrient availability, improved soil structure and increased activity of high-quality organisms may help to increase plant height, number of leaves and number of branches. This may be due to better availability and the uptake of plant nutrients especially N, P and K leading to better photosynthesis and protein synthesis (Kumar et al., 2009). The use of the recommended N dose by using vermicompost significantly improved flower buds per plant. The 50% early flowering may be due to the higher of growth and it is also positive influence on the physiological activity of the plants thereby resulting in early flowering. \r\nB. Yield and yield attributes\r\nYield parameters such as number of fruits per plant, weight of fruits (g), length of fruits (cm), yield (kg/plot), yield (tonn/ha) are presented in (Table 2). From the experiment it was observed that application of treatment T5 - 75% RDF + 25 % Vermicompost produced maximum number of fruits per plant (21.46), Length of fruit (cm) (13.42cm), weight of fruit (12.77g) and yield (4.37 kg/plot and 18.86 tonn/ha), it was at par with T6 - 50% RDF + 50% Vermicompost. The beneficial effect of vermicompost on crops and crop yields may be due to its ability to maintain nutritional status throughout the growing season. The moderate increase in C: N ratio may increase the concentration of carbohydrates with the final improvement in yield and yield characteristics (Chander et al., 2005). These finding are also conformity with Kondappa et al. (2009); Sharma et al. (2009); Sharma et al. (2010); Yadav and Yadav (2010). The combined application of vermicompost and 75% NPK (RDF) resulted in almost significantly higher yield attributing parameters viz. weight of untrimmed head and average weight of trimmed over other nutrient source treatments. The high yield attributes from these nutrient sources may be due to increased growth and root parameters as a result of increased availability of all the essential plant nutrients as well as increased physico-chemical and biological properties of the soil. All these favourable conditions might have resulted in greater accumulation of dry matters and their translocation from source to the sink (reproductive organs) which, in turn, increased the higher yield attributing parameters. This result is in conformity with the finding of Yadav et al. (2001); Sharma et al. (2002).\r\nC. Economics of treatments\r\n The maximum gross return and net return (Rs. 188600ha1 and Rs 136400 ha1) was obtained from T5 (75% RDF + 25% Vermicompost) while minimum in T1 control (Rs. 62700 ha1 and Rs. 7900) are presented in (Table 3). Maximum B: C ratio was observed in T5 (75% RDF + 25% Vermicompost) 2.84, while the minimum was in T3 (100% FYM) 1.13. It was may be due to the requirement of higher quantity of organics manure to fulfil the requirement the nutrients.\r\n','Rudra Pratap Singh Gurjar, Ankit Kumar Goyal, Sachin Kishor and Amar Singh (2022). Response of Integrated Nutrient Management on Growth, Yield and Benefit: Cost Ratio of Okra [Abelmoschus esculentus (L.) Moench]. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 14(2): 1269-1272.'),(5046,'125','Principal Component analysis of Yield and its attributing Traits in advanced Inbred Lines of Rice under Sodicity condition (Oryza sativa L.)','Sameer Upadhyay*, Sanket Rathi, Madhu Choudhary, Sanchika Snehi, Vishal Singh, P.K. Singh and R.K. Singh','219 Principal Component Analysis of Yield and its attributing Traits in advanced Inbred Lines of Rice under Sodicity condition _Oryza sativa L._ Sameer Upadhyay.pdf','',1,'Sodicity is one of the prima facie concerns among salt stress that a rice crop comes across throughout its vegetative and reproductive phases, restricting its output and productivity. Since yield under salt stress depends on a number of attributing traits, PCA helps reduce these variables in terms of a small number of variables with no loss in the original data set. Therefore, a study was conducted using 250 Recombinant Inbred Lines (F7) in the natural sodic conditions of ANDUAT, Kumarganj, Ayodhya with nine agro-morphological traits and a principal component analysis was carried out. Out of nine principal components, three exhibited Eigenvalue more than one governing 91.68% variance. The highest positive Eigenvalue was observed for panicle length and test weight in PC1, indicating their pronounced effect on the overall variation in the lines. ','Rice, Sodicity, RILs, PCA, Eigenvalues, Yield','PCA can be used to extract all of the relevant components and emphasize their contributions to overall variability, making it an excellent tool for speeding up the breeding process. Genotypes selected for Panicle Length and Filled Grains per Plant would be useful in plant breeding programs since these component traits significantly control the overall performance of lines. The PCA also revealed that test weight and effective tillers per plant played a prominent role in classifying the variation in the population. These RILs could be further used as a mapping population for identifying genomic regions (QTLs) conferring tolerance towards sodicity at the seedling or reproductive stages. Furthermore, these RILs can be utilized as germplasm to exploit the variability required to improve or develop tolerant genotypes. ','INTRODUCTION\r\nRice (Oryza sativa L.) is the world\'s most extensively farmed cereal grain, providing sustenance to one-third of the world\'s population. India, behind China, has the world\'s largest rice-growing area, with 44 million hectares (Mha) under cultivation. The Kharif rice production in India during 2021–22 is estimated to be 107.04 million tonnes (Mt) (Anonymous, 2021). Rice yield increase of 1.0–1.2% per year beyond 2020 will be required to feed the world\'s still-growing population while keeping prices low (Anonymous, 2013). \r\nSodicity is one of the most pressing concerns among all the abiotic issues that rice, a salt-sensitive cereal, faces during its vegetative and reproductive stages, limiting its production and productivity (Sheoran et al., 2021; Liang et al., 2015). It causes phosphorus, zinc, and potentially iron insufficiency, as well as boron toxicity. Plants are less able to acquire crucial nutrients from the soil when they are affected by sodicity (Upadhyay et al., 2020). Reduced germination rate, stunted plant growth, limited root development, low tillering, spikelet sterility and number, low test weight, low yield, uneven field growth, poor root growth, leaf rolling, low harvest index, leaf browning, delayed flowering, reduced seed set due to lower pollen viability and mortality are some of the pertinent morphological signs a plant shows when grown in sodic soil. Alkalization of soil due to NaHCO3 and Na2CO3 might be a more severe problem than soil salinisation caused by neutral salts, such as NaCl and Na2SO4, in certain respects (Li et al., 2017). Furthermore, extensive field testing revealed production losses ranging from 36 to 69% in rice grown on sodium salt-affected soils versus normal soils. (Upadhyay et al., 2022; Qadir et al., 2014). The use of sodic lands for agricultural yield improvement is anticipated to increase to meet the desired yield gain, and the long-term sustainability of sodic soils for food and feed production will become a major problem. The selection of those features that are yield determiners under sodic circumstances should be examined in this context.\r\nPlant breeders frequently measure a vast number of traits, some of which may lack adequate discriminating power for germplasm assessment, characterization, and management (Maji and Shaibu 2012). In this situation, Principal Component Analysis (PCA) can be used to uncover patterns in data sets and reduce redundancy. It is a multivariate statistical approach that attempts to simplify and evaluate the interrelationship between a large number of variables in terms of a small number of variables or components without sacrificing any of the original data set\'s key information. Clifford and Stephenson (1975) reported that the first three principal components are frequently the most essential in representing variation patterns.\r\nWith the above argument, an experiment was conducted to evaluate the Principal Components Analysis of the traits in Recombinant Inbred Lines (RILs) obtained from a cross of PUSA 44 (Susceptible) and CSR 43 (Tolerant) cultivated under sodicity conditions. \r\nMATERIALS AND METHODS\r\nThe genetic materials consisted of two parents viz., PUSA 44 (Sodicity susceptible) as female and CSR 43 (Sodicity Tolerant) as male parents. In Kharif 2016, at the Agricultural farm of the Institute of Agricultural Sciences, Banaras Hindu University (BHU), Varanasi, a cross was established between the parents, and F1s were obtained. These F1s were validated using SSR markers. Single F1 plant was selfed, and 250 RILs were generated in Kharif 2019 following off-season sowing at ICAR-National Rice Research Institute and main-season sowing at BHU utilising the Single Seed Descent (SSD) technique up to F7 generation. The phenotypic evaluation was performed in Kharif 2020 at NSP-6 Agricultural Research Farm of Acharya Narendra Dev University of Agriculture and Technology (ANDUAT), Kumarganj, Ayodhya. \r\nANDUAT is located in the Gangetic alluvium of Eastern Uttar Pradesh, with a latitude of 26o47\' North and a longitude of 81o12\' East, at the height of 113 meters above mean sea level. It lies in the semi-arid zone, with the monsoon supplying 80% of total precipitation. The soil samples were taken randomly from various locations, followed by mixing in equal proportions. Later the mixture was subjected to pH and EC meters following standard protocol. Post Analysis, the location was found to have a pre-transplanting and post-harvest pH of 9.6 and 9.2, respectively, while the EC (at 25oC) and ESP were 0.65 dSm-1 and 75.57, respectively. Accordingly, the soil was classified as moderately sodic. \r\nTen seedlings (F7) per line of 21 days old were transplanted following alpha lattice design of experiment with two replications of 20 × 20 cm spacing. Recommended package of practices were followed and data was recorded on five randomly selected plants for the quantitative traits viz., Days to 50% Flowering, Days to Maturity, Plant Height (cm), Effective Tillers per plant, Panicle Length, Filled Grains Per Panicle, Test Weight (g), SPAD and Grain Yield Per Plant (g). Principal Component Analysis was performed on the mean data collected concerning all of the aforesaid quantitative traits using STAR v.2.0.1 of IRRI.\r\nRESULT AND DISCUSSION\r\nBy evaluating the dependency among the characteristics, principal component analysis (PCA) is used to reduce big data sets into smaller principal components with no loss of detail. Table 1 depicts Eigenvalues, Variance Percentage and Cumulative Percentage. Three of the eight components evaluated in the current study had Eigenvalues more than one. The components having Eigenvalue more than one together controlled 91.68 % variance among the selected traits. PC1, PC2 and PC3 controlled 75.02, 12.99 and 3.66 % variability among the RILs for the traits under study. The contributions of nine quantitative traits to the principal components are shown in Table 2. The same principal component showed an Eigenvalue of 5.752, 2.169 and 1.33, respectively. PC1 showed panicle length (0.3554) and test weight (0.3486) as the relatively higher contributors. Similar findings were reported by Manohara et al. (2020); Sahu et al. (2016). No negative relation among traits was found for PC1. The highest positively correlated variables for PC2 were Filled Grains per Panicle (0.4800) and Grain Yield per Plant (0.4195). The component PC3 had Effective Tillers per plant, and Panicle Length displayed the highest contributions. Christina et al. (2021) reported similar observations. The scree plot showed the variance percentage between Eigenvalues and the Principal Components (Fig. 1). PC1 exhibited 75.02 % variability with an Eigenvalue of 5.752. The graph depicts that maximum variation was contributed by PC1. A similar report was shown by Shivani et al. (2021).\r\n','Sameer Upadhyay, Sanket Rathi, Madhu Choudhary, Sanchika Snehi, Vishal Singh, P.K. Singh and R.K. Singh (2022). Principal Component Analysis of Yield and its Attributing Traits in Advanced Inbred Lines of Rice under Sodicity condition (Oryza sativa L.). Biological Forum – An International Journal, 14(2): 1273-1276.'),(5047,'125','Genetic Variability and Character Association Studies among Yield Attributing Traits in Genepool Lines of Castor (Ricinus communis L.)','P. Sahithi Reddy*, P. Bindu Priya, K. Sadaiah, S. Vanisri and C.V. Sameer Kumar','220 Genetic Variability and Character Association Studies among Yield Attributing Traits in Genepool Lines of Castor _Ricinus communis L._ P. Sahithi Reddy.pdf','',1,'Castor is one of the major industrial oilseed crops with limited genetic diversity. It is therefore important to diversify the genetic base and develop gene pools to harness the diversity and selection efficacy of important morphological traits in crop improvement programs. In this study, fifty castor lines isolated from random mating gene pool and selfed till homozygosity were evaluated for ten phenotypic traits along with two checks. The gcv and pcv values indicated presence of broad variation for all characters except for days to 50 per cent flowering and days to maturity. However, high heritability coupled with high genetic advance as per cent mean was registered for plant height, number of nodes to primary raceme, primary raceme length, effective primary raceme length, number of effective racemes per plant, number of capsules in primary raceme, 100 seed weight and seed yield. The characters primary raceme length, effective primary raceme length, number of effective racemes, number of capsules in primary raceme and 100 seed weight showed significant positive correlation with seed yield. Path coefficient analysis indicated that days to 50 per cent flowering, days to maturity, number of nodes, primary raceme length, number of effective racemes, number of capsules in primary raceme and 100 seed weight had positive direct effect on seed yield. Hence it was established that selection for traits primary raceme length, number of effective racemes, number of capsules in primary raceme and 100 seed weight should be the basis in yield improvement programmes of castor. ','Castor, Correlation, gcv, Genetic Advance, Heritability, Path and PCV','It can be concluded based on the results of variability studies, correlation and path coefficient analyses, that the characters primary raceme length, number of effective racemes per plant, number of capsules in primary raceme and 100 seed weight largely define the seed yield of castor and hence should be prioritized in selection programmes in order to develop high yielding varieties and hybrids. ','INTRODUCTION\r\nCastor (Ricinus communis L.) is an industrially important non-edible oilseed crop. It belongs to the family Euphorbiaceae and has a chromosome number of 2n=20 (Goodarzi et al., 2012). Presently castor crop is cultivated in 30 countries across the globe among which India is leading in production and export (Sadaiah et al., 2021). India exports 83 per cent of world’s castor oil to China, USA, Japan, Thailand and few European countries (Lokesh et al., 2020). Castor seeds contain 45 to55 per cent oil which is the major source of the unusual hydroxyl fatty acid ‘ricinoleic acid’ that has tremendous industrial significance (Senthilvel et al., 2016). It is one of the best sources for the production of biodiesel (Papreja and Mahla 2016). Genetic improvement of any trait requires presence of genotypic variability in the germplasm (Zheng et al., 2010). Hence it is critical to look at the extent of genetic variation present within a crop in order to increase the efficiency of selection. To achieve this, the genotypes have to be subjected to phenotypic evaluation followed by estimation of heritability of the traits and associations of these traits with each other. Heritability estimates are necessary to obtain information on the heritable portion of variability (Jyothsna et al., 2016). However, high heritability should be coupled with high genetic advance to make the selection effective (Mullualem et al., 2017). To achieve targeted yield enhancement, genetic improvement in yield contributing traits is a must. Studies on correlation coefficient provide information on the nature and strength of associations between various traits while path coefficient analysis allows splitting of the association into direct and indirect effects through other attributes by the correlations thus defining the cause and effect relationship between the variables (Dapke et al., 2016). Hence the current investigation aims at estimation of genetic variability and character associations among yield related traits in the selected genepool lines of castor.\r\nMATERIAL AND METHODS\r\nThe experiment was carried out at Regional Agricultural Research Station, Palem situated at 16.5154˚N latitude and 78.2493˚E longitude during kharif, 2021. Fifty advanced genepool lines were sown along with two checks (Pragathi for yield attributing traits and DPC-9 for pistillate nature) with a spacing of 90 cm between the rows and 60 cm between the plants in augmented randomized complete block design by replicating the checks five times in which each line is sown in a single row of 6.0 m length. All the agronomic practices and necessary plant protection measures were followed to raise a healthy crop. \r\nThe observations viz., days to 50 per cent flowering, days to maturity, plant height (cm), number of nodes to primary raceme, primary raceme length (cm), effective primary raceme length (cm), number of effective racemes per plant, number of capsules in primary raceme, 100 seed weight (g) and seed yield (g plot-1) at 90, 120 and 150 days after sowing were recorded on randomly selected five plants in each genotype and mean values were considered for analysis. \r\nAnalysis of variance for augmented randomized complete block design (Federer, 1956) was performed as per the method suggested by Panse and Sukhatme (1964) to assess genotypic differences between the entries. Genotypic (σ2g) and phenotypic (σ2p) variances were calculated based on the formula given by Burton (1953) and the range of variation was categorized according to the recommendations of Subramanian and Menon (1973). Formula given by Hanson et al. (1956) was used to calculate broad sense heritability [h2 (b)] and the heritability estimations were classified as indicated by Johnson et al. (1955). The projected genetic gain in the next generation is given by genetic advance which was calculated by the formula of Johnson et al. (1955). The variance and covariance components for each pair of characteristics were estimated by the methods described by Al-Jibouri et al. (1958) from which phenotypic and genotypic correlation coefficients were calculated. The estimated values of correlation coefficients were then compared with table values of correlation coefficients (Fisher and Yates, 1963) at 5 per cent and 1 per cent levels of significance in order to test their significance. The correlation coefficients were further divided into direct and indirect effects of independent factors on the dependent variable in path coefficient analysis proposed by Wright (1921) and elaborated by Dewey and Lu (1959). All the above mentioned analyses were performed using INDOSTAT software.\r\nRESULTS AND DISCUSSION\r\nA. Genetic variability parameters\r\nAnalysis of variance indicated significant variations for all characters studied in the fifty genotypes. The gcv values ranged from 4.63 for days to maturity to 45.88 for seed yield. The values of gcv and pcv were categorized as low (<10%), medium (10-20%) and high (>20%) (Subramanian and Menon, 1973) (Table 1). High gcv was observed for the traits plant height (33.21), number of effective racemes (27.42), number of capsules in primary raceme (32.14) and seed yield (45.88) while for the characters number of nodes (19.36), primary raceme length (19.83), effective primary raceme length (16.55) and 100 seed weight (11.62) medium gcv was noted. Low gcv was observed for days to 50 per cent flowering (7.33) and days to maturity (4.63). pcv values ranged between 7.54 and 49.65 and high pcv was observed for plant height (34.37), number of nodes (21.06), primary raceme length (20.38), number of effective racemes (32.9), number of capsules in primary raceme (32.51) and seed yield (45.88). In case of effective primary raceme length (16.56) and 100 seed weight (12.21) the pcv was medium while the traits days to 50 per cent flowering (7.54) and days to maturity (4.91) exhibited low pcv. Values of gcv were slightly lower than those of pcv implying minor influence of environment on the expression of these characters. Results also indicated the presence of broad genetic variability for all the traits under study except days to 50 per cent flowering and days to maturity. Similar results can be observed in the findings of Chaudhari et al. (2016); Mullualem et al. (2017); Alhaji et al. (2019).\r\nHeritability was categorized as low (<30), moderate (30-60) and high (>60) (Johnson et al., 1955) and high heritability was observed for all the characters under study (Table 1). However only eight among the ten characters studied viz., plant height, number of nodes, primary raceme length, effective primary raceme length, number of effective racemes, number of capsules in primary raceme, 100 seed weight and seed yield showed high heritability coupled with high genetic advance as per cent mean. Thus inheritance of these characters was due to additive gene action and there was no environmental influence on their expression which makes them feasible for direct selection. Days to 50 per cent flowering portrayed high heritability but medium genetic advance indicating presence of both additive and non-additive gene action and so was considerably influenced by the environment. The character days to maturity exhibited high heritability and low genetic advance implying non-additive gene action and high environmental interference in its expression. These results were in accordance with the previous finding of Rukhsar et al. (2018); Movaliya et al. (2018).\r\nB. Character associations \r\nThe character associations of nine morphological characters with seed yield were assessed through correlation and path coefficient analyses (Table 2) (Fig. 1). The results revealed that primary raceme length (0.4251**), effective primary raceme length (0.2931*), number of effective racemes (0.5943**), number of capsules in primary raceme (0.5457**) and 100 seed weight (0.5251**) showed significant positive correlation with seed yield. Significant negative correlation with seed yield was noted for days to maturity (-0.3952**) while days to 50 per cent flowering (-0.1135), plant height (-0.2679), number of nodes up to primary raceme (-0.2329) exhibited\r\nnon-significant negative associations. Therefore these lines are highly useful in developing short duration varieties suitable for mechanical harvesting which require negative selection for flowering and plant height traits without compromising seed yields. These kinds of associations between the traits were previously noted by Goodarzi et al. (2015); Dapke et al. (2016); Silva et al. (2017); Salihu et al. (2018).\r\nPath coefficient analysis revealed that days to 50 per cent flowering (0.0493), days to maturity (0.0452), number of nodes up to primary raceme (0.0101), primary raceme length (0.0934), number of effective racemes (0.6996), number of capsules in primary raceme (0.6094) and 100 seed weight (0.2239) showed positive direct effect on seed yield (Table 3) (Fig. 2). So selection for these traits is highly recommended for yield enhancement in castor. The character effective primary raceme length showed negative direct effect on seed yield despite a significant positive correlation which may be due to negative indirect effects from days to maturity (-0.0015), plant height \r\n(-0.0040), number of nodes (-0.0005), primary raceme length (-0.0160), number of effective racemes (-0.0004), number of capsules in primary raceme (-0.0082) and 100 seed weight (-0.0007). Rukhsar et al. (2018); Salihu et al. (2018); Alhaji et al. (2019) also have observed similar direct and indirect effects of yield attributing traits on seed yield. \r\n','P. Sahithi Reddy, P. Bindu Priya, K. Sadaiah, S. Vanisri and C.V. Sameer Kumar (2022). Genetic Variability and Character Association Studies Among Yield Attributing Traits in Genepool Lines of Castor (Ricinus communis L.). Biological Forum – An International Journal, 14(2): 1277-1281.'),(5048,'125','Influence of Foliar Feeding of Ca, Zn and Cu with and without Borax on Physical Parameters of Winter Season guava (Psidium guajava L.) cv. L-49','Ravi Pratap*, R.K.S. Gautam, Vishal Gangwar, Pradeep Kumar and Rahul Kumar Yadav','221 Influence of Foliar Feeding of Ca, Zn and Cu with and without Borax on Physical Parameters of Winter Season guava _Psidium guajava L._ cv. L-49 Ravi Pratap.pdf','',1,'The present investigation entitled “Influence of foliar feeding of Ca, Zn and Cu with and without Borax on fruit set, yield and quality of winter season guava (Psidium guajava L.) cv. L-49” was conducted at guava orchard of Kalyanpur nursery, Department of Fruit Science, Chandra Shekhar Azad University of Agriculture and Technology, Kanpur 208002 during 2019-2020. 39 guava trees with even size and vigour were selected and were sprayed with various concentrations of different nutrients (Ca(NO) @ 0.50% and 1.0%), (ZnSO4@ 0.50% and 1.0%) and (CuSO4 @ 0.60% and 0.80%) with and without borax (1.0%). The investigation was conducted in RBD (Randomised Block Design) with 13 treatments which replicated thrice. Fruits were analysed for their physical and biochemical characteristics in the laboratory of Department of Fruit Science, C.S.A.U.A&T, Kanpur. The results of present study revealed that the fruit physical characters i.e. No. of flower per shoot (60.82%), Fruit set (67.30%), Fruit retention (62.54%),fruit length (6.98 cm), fruit width (6.80 cm), weight (150 g), volume (155.30 cc) and yield (56.30 kg per tree) were improved significantly with the use of ZnSO¬¬¬¬4 1.0% + Borax 1.0% (T10).','Borax, Guava, Quality, Yield and Zinc Sulphate','The yield and physical parameters of fruits with respect No. of flower per shoot (60.82%), Fruit set (67.30%), Fruit retention (62.54%), fruit length (6.98 cm), fruit width (6.80 cm), weight (150 g), volume (155.30 cc) and yield (56.30 kg per tree) were obtained maximum with the foliar application of ZnSO¬¬¬¬4 1.0% + Borax 1.0% (T10). Second effective treatment was ZnSO¬¬¬¬4 1.0% (T4) in investigation.\r\nSo, it is advised to guava growers and orchardist to spraying of ZnSO¬¬¬¬4 1.0% + Borax 1.0% (T10) for obtaining better yield and quality of winter season guava fruits.\r\n','INTRODUCTION\r\nGuava (Psidium guajava L.) \"Apple of the tropics\" is one of the most encouraging fruit crops of India and is viewed as one of the impeccable healthfully important remunerative crops (Singh et al., 2000). Not because of its large area or production, but because of its wider edapho-climatic adaptability, resistance to biotic and abiotic stresses, precocious and prolific bearing habit, quality fruit with high nutritive value, medicinal attribute, use both as fresh fruit and after processing in various value added products, and classification as a multipurpose tree due to its utility as a fruit, fuel, fodder, and timber (Suman et al., 2016).\r\nGuava belongs to the family ‘Myrtaceae’ with basic chromosome number n=11, It was first brought to India in the 17th century by the Portuguese. It is native to Tropical America, ranging from Mexico to Peru, and has since become a commercially important crop in nations such as Brazil, Mexico, China, Malaysia, the Hawaiian Islands, Cuba, and India (Yadav et al., 2014).\r\nIt is hardy fruit which can be grown in poor alkaline or poorly drained soils. It can be grown in soil with pH ranging from 4.5 to 7.5. It can withstand up to the maximum temperature of 460C even with scanty rainfall of less than 25cm.However in subtropical climate there are three distinct periods of growth and fruiting. These three distinct periods are Ambebahar, Mrigbaharand Hastabahar (Shukla et al., 2008).\r\nGuava is an edible fruit that grows on an evergreen shrub or small tree. The fruit of the guava is a real berry. A berry is a fleshy or pulpy indehiscent fruit in which the entire ovary wall ripens into a relatively soft pericarp, the seeds are embedded in the ovary\'s common meat, and there are usually more than one seed. The trunk of the guava tree is slender, with smooth green to red-brown bark. The base of the trunk may be branched, and the branches may drop low to the ground. The plant\'s leaves are oval or elliptical in shape, with a smooth upper surface and a hairy under surface. Guava has a berry-like fruit and solitary white blooms. The fruit is round in shape and varies in colour from green to yellow. The interior flesh might be white, yellow, pink, or red in colour, with numerous yellowish seeds. Guava trees can reach a height of 10 metres (33 feet) and live for 40 years (Vora et al., 2018).\r\nThe ripe fruit has a moisture content of 79.50 percent, 15.25 percent dry matter, 3.20 percent crude fibre, and very little ash. The TSS ranges between 8.5 and 10.5 percent. The main sugar in guava green mature fruit is fructose. The unique taste guava has been linked to a number of volatile chemicals, including hydrocarbons, alcohol, and carbonyls. Polymerization of leuco-anthocyanins is responsible for the decrease in astringency as the fruit matures. The nutritional value in guava fruit are found (per 100g of fruit pulp) as total sugar 5.0 to 10.25g, protein 0.9 to 1.40g, crude fat 0.10 to 0.70g, vitamin A 250 I.U., vitamin C 210 to 305mg, pectin 0.5 to 1.8g, niacin 0.20 to 2.30mg, thiamin 0.02 to 0.06mg, riboflavin 0.02 to 0.04mg, calcium 10.50 to 31.80mg, phosphorus 21.00 to 39.60mg and iron 0.55 to1.36mg (Adsule and Kadam 2005). \r\nZinc is involved in chlorophyll synthesis, plant growth hormone biosynthesis, and plays a favourable function in photosynthesis and nitrogen metabolism. Auxin and protein synthesis, seed formation, and appropriate maturity all require zinc. It also boosts the size and productivity of the fruit. Boron is a mineral that is found in cell membranes and is required for cell division. It assists with nitrogen uptake and sugar translocation by regulating the potassium/calcium ratio in the plant. It also improves the plant\'s nitrogen availability. Copper is required in numerous enzyme systems and stimulates several enzymes involved in lignin production in plants. It also plays a role in photosynthesis and the metabolism of carbohydrates and proteins in plants (Zagade et al., 2017).\r\nCalcium is important nutrient for root development and cell division as well as chromosome stability. It also seems to have a regulating role in respiration and several metabolic disorders. It also plays a great role in the neutralization of some organic acid. In plant, it prevented the accumulation of oxalic acid. Calcium is essential for the development of fruit quality (Shanker et al., 2019).\r\nMATERIALS AND METHODS\r\nDuring the academic year 2019-2020, the current study was conducted at the Kalyanpur nursery\'s guava orchard, Department of Fruit Science, Chandra Shekhar Azad University of Agriculture & Technology Kanpur (U.P.) India. The climate at the experimental site is semi-arid and subtropical. The orchard\'s soil is sandy loam that is well drained and aerated. The soil texture was rather loose, which was ideal for plant root development. For this study, twelve year old uniform guava plants were taken at a distance of 6 metres apart. The suggested package of methods for guava nutrient application and other orchard management measures were followed. In the month of June 2019, the experiment was set up in a Randomized Block Design with three replications. Per plot, one plant was used as a unit. Thirteen treatments in toto viz., T¬¬¬¬1 (Ca (NO3)2 0.50%), T2 (Ca (NO3)2 1.0%),T3 (ZnSO¬¬¬¬4 0.50%), T4 (ZnSO¬¬¬¬4 1.0%),T5 (CuSO40.60%), T6 (CuSO4 0.80%), T7 (Ca (NO3)2 0.50%) + Borax (1.0%), T8 (Ca (NO3)2 1.0%) + Borax (1.0%), T9 (ZnSO¬¬¬¬4 0.50%) + Borax (1.0%), T10 (ZnSO¬¬¬¬4 1.0%) + Borax (1.0%), T11 (CuSO4 0.60%) + Borax (1.0%), T12 (CuSO4 0.80%) + Borax (1.0%), T13 Control (water spray) were sprayed (foliar feeding) 20 Sept. 2019 (18 days before first flowering) and on 14 Nov. 2019 (after fruit setting).\r\nNumber of flowers per shoot was calculated by count method from selected branches in each direction and in each treatment and their average was expressed as number of flowers per shoot. The fruit set was calculated by dividing the number of fruits set by the number of flowers that appeared. It\'s measured in percentages. Fruit retained was calculated by dividing the number of fruits kept till maturity by the number of fruits set and expressing the result in percentage. With the use of a digital Vernier Calliper, the length and breadth of 10 sample fruits from each treatment were measured and expressed in centimetres (cm). On a physical balance, the weight of the above-mentioned fruits was recorded, and the average was represented in gram per fruit. The volume of the fruit was measured in millilitres (ml) using a volumetric flask. At each harvesting, the weight of the fruits was recorded, and the total yield per plant was computed at the final harvesting. The statistical analysis of the data obtained in several sets of experiments was calculated according to Panse and Sukhatme\'s recommendations (1985).\r\nRESULTS AND DISCUSSION \r\nEnhancement of flower per shoot was observed 10.08 (Maximum) and 8.18% respectively with the treatment of T10 and T4 respectively over control. Due to Zinc as well as Boron. Zinc has an important role in the hydrolysis of complex polysaccharides into simple sugars, metabolite synthesis, and fast translocation of photosynthetic products and minerals from other parts of the plant. Boron also responded more prominent in role of translocation of carbohydrates and auxin synthesis which emphasize to enhancing of fruiting parameter this fruiting parameter i.e. flowering. So the combined treatment of T10 promoted maximum flowering in this experimentation. These findings are in line with the reports of Singh and Brahmachari (1999); Balakrishnan (2001); Kumar et al. (2010); Trivedi et al. (2012); Yadav et al. (2015); Bhoyar and Ramdevputra (2017) in guava.\r\nCombined treatment of T10 gave significantly enhancement of fruit setting in this experimentation. Foliar application of Boron might be have proved helpful in maintaining better nutritional status of guava plant which ultimately proved beneficial in enhancing attitude of higher number of fruit setting. Similarly zinc also play important role for carbohydrate and phosphorus metabolism and it is essential for carbon dioxide utilization and evolution which gave strengthening phenomenon of fruit attached to peduncle due to this process of action fruit set enhanced. These findings are also co-related with the reports of Ali et al. (1993); Trivedi et al.,(2012); Hada et al. (2014); Kumar et al. (2015); Zagade et al. (2017) in guava.\r\nCombined treatment of ZnSO¬¬¬¬4 1.0% + Borax 1.0% (T10) significantly enhanced (62.54%) fruit retention percentage. Closely followed by treatment of ZnSO¬¬¬¬4 1.0% (T4) recording 59.70% fruit retention against control. Increasement in fruit retention might have been observed due to combined effect of micronutrient of Boron and Zinc. Zinc acts synthesis of plant growth substances and enzymes and essential for promoting certain metabolic reactions. Boron responded important role in translocation of carbohydrate and auxin synthesis regulating sink and enhancing in pollen viability and fertilization which create more strengthening of the fruit attachment with peduncle of the fruit. These findings are conformity with the reports of E1 Sherif et al., (2000); Awasthi and Lal (2009); Rajkumar et al. (2017); Yadav et al., (2017); Yadav et al. (2011) in guava fruit.\r\nFoliar spray of different treatments proved beneficial in increasing the length, width, weight, volume and yield of fruit as compared to control (Table 1). The maximum length (6.98 cm), width (6.80 cm), weight (150 g), volume (155 cc) and yield (56.30 kg per plant) of fruit was recorded in T10 which was closely followed by T8,T9,T4,T8, and T9 respectively. The minimum length, width, weight, volume, and yield of fruit was recorded in control plants. \r\nThese parameters i.e. length of fruit, width of fruit and volume of fruit might have been enhanced due to combined action of zinc and Boron. In this investigation Zinc acts as promoter of chlorophyll synthesis water uptake and auxin synthesis and it is essential component of many proteins and also enhances rate of antioxidant enzymes as well as different metabolic process of plant. Boron also promotes the activation of enzyme reaction like transformation of carbohydrate, activity of hexokinase and formation of cellulose.These findings are agreements with the reports of Yadav et al. (2017); Pal et al. (2008); Singh et al. (2004) in guava and Singh et al. (2018) in sweet orange.\r\nThese increases in fruit yield were caused by the mineral nutrients (Boron and Zinc) appearing to play an indirect function in hastening the progressive process of cell division and cell elongation, resulting in increased size, weight, and volume.In this contest weight as well as yield of fruit were enhanced in this experimentation. These results inconformity with the reports of Rajkumar et al., (2014), Rajkumar et al., (2017); Zagade et al. (2017); Yadav et. al. (2017); Singh et al. (2019); Sachin et al. (2019) in guava. \r\n','Ravi Pratap, R.K.S. Gautam, Vishal Gangwar, Pradeep Kumar and Rahul Kumar Yadav (2022). Influence of Foliar Feeding of Ca, Zn and Cu with and without Borax on Physical Parameters of Winter Season guava (Psidium guajava L.) cv. L-49. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 14(2): 1282-1285.'),(5049,'125','Effects of Humic Acid, Vermiwash and Biofertilizer on Grafting Success of Soursop (Annona muricata L)','Fetrat A. Noory, S.V. Patil*, Venkat Rao, Manjunath Ramanna, Gundappa G. Kadalli and Swetha B.S.','222 Effects of Humic Acid, Vermiwash and Biofertilizer on Grafting Success of Soursop _Annona muricata L_ S.V. Patil.pdf','',1,'An experiment was undertaken on effects of humic acid, vermiwash, and biofertilizer on soursop grafts. Soursop (local) as root stock and scion (local) was used for study at the department of Fruit Science, College of Horticulture, Bengaluru during the period 2020-21. The scion of local plant was used for softwood grafting in six month old seedlings which were planted in media containing mixtures of soil and FYM (1:1) treated with humic acid, vermiwash and biofertilizers per treatment and these bags were kept under open condition. A total of 12 treatments were tested in three replications. The results at the end of 90 days showed that the inoculation of consortium of T11 Vermiwash (1%) + Azospirillum spp (2g/ seedling) + Pseudomonas fluorescence (2g / seedling) + AM fungi (2g / seedling) had taken less number of days for sprouting (23 days), more successful grafting (70.33 %), produced the highest length of sprout (18.83 cm) and number of leaves (29.00). The inoculation of consortia of humic acid, vermiwash and biofertilizer showed better nutrient uptake and growth at the end of 90 days in open condition.','Soursop, humic acid and vermiwash','The research aimed at developing grafting technology in the most challenging Annonaceae family. The scion of local plant was used for softwood grafting in six month old seedlings which were planted in media containing mixtures of soil and FYM (1:1) treated with humic acid, vermiwash and biofertilizers per treatment and these bags were kept under open condition. A total of 12 treatments were tested in three replications. The results at the end of 90 days showed that the inoculation of consortium of T11 Vermiwash (1%) + Azospirillum spp (2g/ seedling) + Pseudomonas fluorescence (2g / seedling) + AM fungi (2g / seedling) had taken less number of days for sprouting (23 days), more successful grafting (70.33 %), produced the highest length of sprout (18.83 cm) and number of leaves (29.00). The inoculation of consortia of humic acid, vermiwash and biofertilizer showed better nutrient uptake and growth at the end of 90 days in open condition. The experiment may be helpful in producing successful grafting technology using various growth stimulating substances such as humic acid, vermiwash, and biofertilizer on soursop grafts. ','INTRODUCTION\r\nSoursop/ Laxman phal (Annona muricata L.; 2n= 14) is a small erect evergreen tropical plant belonging to the family Annonaceae, growing 5-6 meters in height and bears the largest fruit among the Annonas (Uchegbu et al., 2017). It is a native of Central America, mostly distributed in tropical and subtropical regions of the world. In recent years, soursop production has increased, now widely dispersed across the planet\'s equatorial belt, with considerable economic importance in nations like as Venezuela, Puerto Rico, Mexico, Jamaica, Cuba, Spain, India, Suriname, Brazil, and Senegal, among others. Soursop was first introduced to India many years ago, but it is presently only grown in plantations on a modest scale. In India, on an average plants produce about 25-40 kg fruits/plant. Soursop is only grown in tiny amounts in Tamil Nadu, Karnataka, Andhra Pradesh, and Kerala in southern India. It has a high economic value and is commonly grown and eaten as a meal. The fruit pulp has an elongated receptacle surrounded by white fibrous juicy segments and used to prepare post-harvest products like purees, juices, jams, jellies, powdered fruit bars, and flakes. Nectar can be made from the pulp (Peters et al., 2001). Antibacterial, antiviral, and antifungal activities are found in soursop. As a result, this is an excellent source of medicine. A diuretic is supposed to be the juice of ripe fruit, whereas a decoction of powdered immature fruits is used to treat dysentery.\r\nHumic acid is a natural combination of organic macromolecular units found in all soils. It\'s a bio-stimulant with an organic charge that increases crop yield by influencing plant growth and development. It has been carefully investigated due to their specific physiological properties (Quaggiotti et al., 2004). Vermiwash is a rich source of vitamins, hormones, enzymes, macronutrients and micronutrients when applied to plants help in efficient growth (Nath et al., 2009). Bio-fertilizers are microbial preparations contain living cells of various microorganisms that do have the potential to mobilize plant nutrients in soil from inert to useable form through a biological process, are environmentally friendly, and play an important role in crop development. Azospirillum is a non-symbiotic micro aerophilic bacteria that is typically discovered in horticulture crop roots. Pseudomonas fluorescens is a common bacterium that aids in soil health management and has a wide metabolic and functional range.\r\nMATERIAL AND METHODS\r\nThe present investigation entitled “Studies on the effect of humic acid, vermiwash and biofertilizers on growth of soursop (Anonna muricata L.)”. was undertaken at the Department of Fruit Science, College of Horticulture, GKVK Campus, Bengaluru-560 065, during the year 2020 – 21. The experimental field is located at an altitude of 930 AMSL, 12° 58N latitude and 77° 35S longitude. The grafting operation was performed on selected rootstock seedlings of soursop consisting of 360 seedlings in each treatment using the scion shoots of 10-15 cm long with thickness equal to that of rootstocks to match with the girth of rootstock. The softwood of rootstock was split vertically in the form of cleft to a length of about 3-4.5 cm downward into cut stem with sharp knife. The cleft looks like a fork or letter “V”. A wedge-shaped cut of about 5 cm by removing the bark and little wood on both sides is made on lower portion of scion stick. Some portion of bark remaining on two sides of scion was retained. The wedge-shaped scion was prepared and inserted into the “V” shaped split of rootstock. The graft was secured firmly using 1.5 cm wide, 200-gauge polythene strip. The scions were covered with polythene caps to avoid desiccation of scion by creating humidity near and above the union region.\r\nRESULT AND DISCUSSION\r\nThe result in Table 1, (Fig. 1) showed a beneficial impact on maximum percentage of sprouting (70.33%) , less day taken for sprouting (23.00 days), highest number of leaves (29.00), highest length of sprout (18.83 cm) at 90 was recorded in treatment T11 with Vermiwash (1%) + Azospirillum spp (2g / seedlingdays) + Pseudomonas fluorescence (2g / seedling) + AM Fungi (2g/ seedling) and minimum percentage of sprouting (50.00%), more days taken for sprout (28.00 days), lowest number of leaves (22.00) and minimum sprout length (11.50 cm) was recorded at 90 days in control treatment (T1).\r\nThe evaluation of biofertilizers on grafting of soursop revealed or showed that the biofertilizers, phosphate solubilizer, biocontrol agent and phosphorous mobilize in the form of Azospirillum spp., Pseudomonas fluorescens and AM Fungi respectively had enhanced the growth and nutrient uptake. The growth, establishment and nutrient uptake was significantly superior over un-inoculated control. All the biofertilizers with combination of vermiwash increased the growth and provided congineal condition for growth and sprout of plant in short time. Similar findings were reported by Shankarappa, et al. (2018). Various reports in horticultural crops indicated that humic acid, vermiwash and biofertilizer either individually or in combination had synergistic effect on plant growth. The dual inoculation of Azospirillum, Pseudomonas had more positive response in peach seedlings as compared to single inoculation or control (Awasthi et al., 1996). Sharma et al. (2002) reported that AM fungi enhanced nutrient uptake and level of plant growth substances in apple seedlings. Subbiah (1990) also reported that when adequate amount of farmyard manure added to the soil with biofertilizers, it improved biofertilizer efficiency and ultimately nutrient status of the soil. Similar increase in growth of fruit plants with biofertilizers has also been reported by Sharma and Bhutani (1998). \r\nIncrease in the growth of pecan seedlings could be attributed to the combined effect of biofertilizers on nutrient uptake and plant growth, AM fungi enhanced the growth parameters like root length, height of plant, number of leaves, dry weight of shoot and root, on pecan seedling Joolka, et al (2004) Vermiwash, Azospirillum spp, Pseudomonas fluorescens and AM respectively had increased the growth and nutrient uptake. The growth, establishment and nutrient uptake was significantly superior over un-inoculated control. All the biofertilizers irrespective of their application as single, dual, triple or four organisms in a consortium produced better establishment. Similar report on the establishment of grafts, increased graft height, girth and number of leaves due to biofertilizer inoculation was reported by Shankarappa et al. (2017).','Fetrat A. Noory, S.V. Patil, Venkat Rao, Manjunath Ramanna, Gundappa G. Kadalli and Swetha B.S. (2022). Effects of Humic Acid, Vermiwash and Biofertilizer on Grafting Success of Soursop (Annona muricata L). Biological Forum – An International Journal, 14(2): 1286-1289.'),(5050,'125','Characterization of Aromatic Short Grain Rice Varieties based on Sodium Hydroxide Test','Muthu M.C.*, Devraj Lenka, Bastia D.N., Samal K.C. and Simanta Mohanty','223 Characterization of Aromatic Short Grain Rice Varieties based on Sodium Hydroxide Test Muthu MC.pdf','',1,'Variety characterization and identification has become crucial for maintaining purity during seed production as well as varietal protection under plant variety protection laws. The current study was conducted in the Department of Seed Science and Technology at OUAT Bhubaneswar\'s laboratory. Sodium hydroxide test is used to identify fragrant short grain rice cultivars. The leachates from the seeds react with alkali to give a colour of varying intensity that can be used to identify rice cultivars. The NaOH test can be used to identify red kernel rice genotypes. In this study, all thirty aromatic short grain rice types responded satisfactorily to the sodium hydroxide test. The aromatic short grain rice types were divided into six groups based on the results of the NaOH test: light yellow (V1, V3, V4, V6, V7, V8, V11, V12, V13, V14, V15, V16, V17, V18, V20, V21), yellow (V23, V24, V26, V27, V28, and V29), brownish yellow (V2), light brown (V9, V19, and V25), brown (V30 and V22) and wine red(V5 and V10). Those genotypes can be efficiently differentiated based on the colour reaction of palea and lemma of seeds to the Sodium hydroxide test.','Sodium hydroxide test, aromatic rice short grain rice varieties, colour reaction, characterization','Based on NaOH test, the aromatic short grain rice varieties were classified in to six groups as light yellow, yellow, brownish yellow, light brown, brown and wine red.','INTRODUCTION\r\nRice (Oryza sativa L.) is the world\'s most common food crop, accounting for 23.3 percent of gross planted area in India (Subbaiah et al., 2011). In India, rice accounts for 43% of total food grain production and 46% of overall cereal production. India has the world\'s largest rice-growing area (about 45 million hectares) and ranks second in rice output behind China (Kaul et al., 2006). Aromatic rice variants are a small but distinct group of rice that has grown in importance as the global demand for high-quality rice has grown (Sun et al., 2008). Because of their wonderful aroma and palatability, they have long been a favourite around the world. Aromatic rice has a prominent significance in Indian culture. Aromatic rice varieties include basmati rice from India and Pakistan, as well as Jasmine rice from Thailand. Basmati rice is mostly farmed in India\'s north-western states, such as Punjab, Haryana, Himachal Pradesh, Jammu & Kashmir, and sections of Uttar Pradesh. Basmati rice varieties are distinguished by three distinct quality characteristics: pleasant aroma, extra-long superfine grain, exceptional grain elongation, and cooked rice with a soft texture. As a result, small and medium grained aromatic rice is classified as a distinct type of non-basmati aromatic rice. Although no tangible proof exists, indigenous scented rice refers to the native locations of cultivation for the majority of these rice varieties. Farmers are recognised as breeders under the Protection of Plant Varieties and Farmers\' Rights Act of 2001 (PPV & FR Act, 2001), which acknowledges farmers as breeders who have developed new varieties and preserved existing varieties. For protection under the Act, plant varieties must meet the distinctiveness, uniformity, and stability (DUS) criteria, which necessitates characterising aromatic short grain rice varieties according to the PPV and FR Authority\'s DUS test recommendations for rice (2007). Variety identification is crucial for a number of reasons, including avoiding legal claims, establishing intellectual property rights, and maintaining genetic purity. Plant morphological features have long been accepted as the indisputable descriptors for DUS testing and crop varietal characterisation. The current trend of continuous rice variety release by the Central and State Varietal Release Committees has necessitated the development of adequate methodologies for varietal identification at the laboratory level, particularly when seed purity analysis is being performed. Maintaining variety genetic integrity is critical for preventing varietal degeneration throughout subsequent regeneration cycles and ensuring varietal performance at the intended level. Chemical tests reveal variations between seeds and seedlings of various types; they require little technical knowledge or training and can be conducted in a short amount of time. The results of these tests are typically distinct, easy to understand, and aid in genotyping grouping.\r\nMATERIALS AND METHODS\r\nSeeds of fragrant short grain rice cultivars were soaked for one hour in a 2% NaOH solution, and the colour of the solution changed as a result. The fragrant short grain rice types were divided into six categories based on the strength of colour reaction: yellow, light yellow, brownish yellow, light brown, brown, and wine red.\r\nRESULTS\r\nAromatic small grain rice cultivars are less distinguishable, making morphological evaluation much more difficult for identification. As a result, biochemical tests are being utilised in tandem to show chemical changes amongst aromatic short grain rice cultivars\' seeds. They don\'t involve much technical knowledge or talent, and they can be performed in a short amount of time. Because the findings of these tests are usually unique and straight forward to understand, an attempt was made to characterise and identify aromatic short grain rice cultivars. The leachates from the seeds react with alkali to give a colour of varying intensity that can be used to identify rice cultivars. The NaOH test is helpful in determining the identity of red kernel rice genotypes. \r\nThe leachates from the seeds react with alkali to give a colour of varying intensity that can be used to identify rice cultivars. The NaOH test can be used to identify red kernel rice genotypes. In this study, all thirty aromatic short grain rice cultivars tested positive for sodium hydroxide in the sodium hydroxide test. The aromatic short grain rice varieties were divided into six groups based on the results of the NaOH test: light yellow (V1, V3, V4, V6, V7, V8, V11, V12, V13, V14, \r\nV15, V16, V17, V18, V20, V21), yellow (V23, V24, V26, V27, V28 and V29), brownish yellow (V2), light brown (V9, V19, and V25), brown (V30 and V22) and wine red (V5 and V10). The colour reaction of the palea and lemma of seeds to NaOH may thus be discriminated efficiently. In rice, Rohini Devi (2000); Anithalakshmi (2002); Dhanaraj (2001); Nethra et al. (2007); Rimpi Bora et al. (2008) found similar observations. showed that the colour response test of Sodium hydroxide test was efficient in effective genotype characterisation.\r\n','Muthu M.C., Devraj Lenka, Bastia D.N., Samal K.C. and Simanta Mohanty (2022). Characterization of Aromatic Short Grain Rice Varieties based on Sodium Hydroxide Test. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 14(2): 1290-1292.'),(5051,'125','Poultry Farming Intervention through Uttara Fowl for Livelihood and Economic Empowerment of Women Beneficiaries under ICAR-Farmer FIRST Project in Uttarakhand (India)','Aman Kamboj* and Shivendra Kumar Kashyap','224 Poultry Farming Intervention through Uttara Fowl for Livelihood and Economic Empowerment of Women Beneficiaries under ICAR-Farmer FIRST Project in Uttarakhand _India_ Aman Kamboj.pdf','',1,'The present study highlights the impact of poultry farming as a successful intervention in one of the adopted villages in mid hills of Uttarakhand under the Farmer FIRST project sanctioned and funded by Indian Council of Agricultural Research (ICAR). After doing sufficient analysis, participatory rural appraisal and need prioritization, poultry farming was identified and incorporated as a potential enterprise for the women in village Syalikhet of Nainital district of Uttarakhand. The challenge of the study was to convince and motivate rural women to adapt poultry farming as a potential source of income which was very new for them. Since, Syalikhet is inhabited by almost cent percent women under marginal or landless category, all the households of village were selected as beneficiaries. Taking into account the its distinctive characteristics and advantages, the newly registered, first poultry breed of Uttarakhand ‘Uttara fowl’ was propagated in Syalikhet with comprehensive feeding, health and management practices. The outcome of intervention has resulted into remarkable increase in the monthly income of the women of Syalikhet. After the successful implementation of the backyard poultry farming module of the project each beneficiary family is earning an average of Rs. 2491 per month. The successful adoption of Uttarafowl rearing made hill women of Syalikhet village economically empowered and self-dependent. ','Hill women, Backyard poultry, Uttara fowl, Farmer FIRST project, Economic impact, Women empowerment, Livelihood opportunities','As the paper has outlined, the main purpose of the current intervention of poultry farming was generating livelihood options, economic empowerment and poverty alleviation by supporting women beneficiaries and their families. The initiative under the project has significant outcomes in terms of improvement in monthly income of the women. Though increase in income and livelihood through egg and meat production is significant, but this may not the real measure of success of intervention. The real impact lies in the enhanced capabilities of the women and their families in the village to cope with the difficulties that they typically face (diseases, hunger, pressure on their assets, etc.). The poultry farming intervention has received overwhelming response from the women who received inputs related to poultry farming. The women of Syalikhet keenly learnt the techniques and made utmost efforts to work with this new venture. Considering the benefits in poultry, women have decided to take their first step into the development mainstream and continue with this enterprise as a subsidiary activity to supplement household income and nutrition. The success of these women has motivated others and many women and unemployed youths have come forward to start this enterprise. Overall, the poultry production intervention under Farmer FIRST programme of ICAR in Syalikhet village has created social, economic, psychological, and technological impact among the women facilitating their empowerment.','INTRODUCTION\r\nSince old times, the rural households in Uttarakhand have been engaged in backyard poultry production for augmenting their income as well as providing food in situations of distress (Singh et al., 2015). The hill women of Uttarakhand comprise the main workforce in agriculture (Kasal et al., 2020; Sanghaik, 2014). Despite this, the women in hills are marked by exclusive work load, minimum resources, marginalized land holdings, low literacy, negligible income sources, gender discrimination, and lots of drudgery (Pande, 1996; Aryal & Kattel 2019; Akoijam, 2019; Sanghaik, 2014). Considering these adversities, additional income sources like beekeeping, sericulture, livestock rearing, poultry farming, etc. have been recognized as the potential sources to improve the socio-economic status of the weaker section in rural settings; especially landless labor, small and marginal farmers including hill women (DA&FW, 2021). Poultry farming has gained a momentum during last few decades in India. Poultry is the only sector of animal husbandry which has witnessed a growth of 16.81% in 20th Livestock census. Among this a huge growth of 45.78% has been recorded in backyard poultry in comparison of commercial poultry which is only 4.5% (DAHD, 2021). Uttarafowl is the first breed of Uttarakhand and 19th chicken breed of India registered in 2018 as NBAGR Accession no: INDIA_CHICKEN_2400_ UTTARA_12019(ICAR-NBAGR, 2021). Widely distributed in Kumaon hills of Uttarakhand, Uttara fowl is a distinct breed with predominantly black plumage color with a bunch of feathers on head (crest/crown)and feathery shanks (Fig. 1) (Kaur et al., 2010). This germplasm has a number of distinct features like hardy nature, better cold tolerance, adaptability to wide agro-climatic zones, disease resistance and rich flavor of meat and egg (Singh et al., 2017; Singh et al., 2010; Ansari et al., 2019, Singh et al., 2019). The Annual egg production of Uttara fowl ranges from 125 to 160 and egg weight from 49.8 to 52.7g and adult weight is about 1.3kg in cocks and 1.1kg in hens (ICAR-NBAGR, 2021; Singh et al., 2018). These birds thrive very well under adverse environmental conditions, poor housing, poor management and poor feeding. In recent research, it has been found that Uttara fowl has lower mortality rate and comparable body weights with that of other indigenous breeds of chicken (Ansari et al., 2018). These advantages of Uttara fowl in comparison to other indigenous breeds, made Uttara fowl suitable for sustainable use in poultry farming in harsh and cold climatic conditions of hilly region of Uttarakhand. The present study highlights the impact of poultry farming intervention in village Syalikhet of Kumaon region of Uttarakhand though ICAR funded Farmers FIRST project on \"Enhancing Livelihood Opportunities of Farming Communities in the Mid Hills of Uttarakhand\", run by G.B. Pant University of Agriculture & Technology, Pantnagar.\r\nMATERIALS AND METHODS\r\n(i) Location and Sampling: Village Syalikhet was selected for the present intervention which is approximately 50 km from G.B. Pant University of Agriculture & Technology, Pantnagar. This village is situated in Bhimtal block of Nainital District in mid hills of Uttarakhand. The village contain a total of about 100 families and all were selected for the intervention but out of total, a sample of forty women (n=40) was surveyed for the present study which were actively involved in the intervention.\r\n(ii) Assessment of challenges and needs of beneficiaries: All the households of Syalikhet are marginal with scanty land holdings scattered on hills.To assess the challenges and needs, a survey was conducted for generating the baseline data regarding the socioeconomic characteristics of the beneficiaries like age, family size, educational status, caste, land holding and monthly income. Due to challenges of minimum livelihood opportunities near the village, the males have mostly migrated to cities and the village is presently inhabited by women folks and elderly people. For encouraging poultry farming in the selected village, all the households were identified as beneficiaries. Only those forty beneficiaries were selected for the study who were actively engaged in poultry rearing.\r\n(iii) Intervention by Uttara fowl: A month-old Uttara fowl chicks, cages, feed, nutritional supplements and nets for construction of low-cost housing system were provided to the beneficiaries. Informal meetings focused on imparting skills and supply of critical inputs were held on regular basis. These meetings were also used as a forum to discuss the problems being faced by the women in implementing the interventions and possible solution. Based on the discussions, farmers were extended technical advice related to feeding, brooding, breeding and disease management in poultry. Initially, women were provided with total 500 birds (@ 20 birds each beneficiary) of 4-6 weeks age along with feed, feed supplements and veterinary assistance. During subsequent interactions, villagers disclosed that although they were interested to adopt backyard poultry farming on a regular basis but lack of sufficient space, poor resources and fear of being attacked by predators are the biggest challenges. In order to resolve these issues, cages were distributed to beneficiary women. However, few among them, even constructed bigger chicken coop (hen houses) for keeping the hen separated for egg laying. These innovative women were identified for further assistance during the next cycle of the intervention and were again given chicks (about 500 @20 birds each beneficiary), feed and feed supplements, thus making poultry as a sustainable enterprise for their livelihood.\r\n(iv) Impact assessment: The impact was demonstrated in the form of increase in monthly income of the women beneficiaries. The economics of intervention was also calculated in terms of gross cost, gross return, net return and Benefit cost ratio (B:C).\r\nRESULT AND DISCUSSION\r\nSocio-economic characteristics of women beneficiaries:\r\nTable 1 shows the socio-economic characteristics for a sample of forty women beneficiaries. It is evident from the data that about fifty per cent (50.0%) of the women belonged to young age category (22 to 39 years) while maximum (35.0%) had education up to primary level. Majority (60.0%) of the women beneficiaries belonged to medium sized family with four to six members and were below poverty line. With respect to caste, majority (80.0%) of them belong to scheduled caste or scheduled tribe and have small land holdings (12.33 to 24.66 in nali, 20 nali =1 acre). The monthly income of beneficiaries was found to be between Rs. 11666.67 to Rs. 15138.89 for the majority (87.55%) of women beneficiaries.\r\nEconomic impact of Farmers FIRST intervention: The women of the village had merely subsistence livelihood with hand to mouth condition before implementation of the project. The average monthly income was Rs. 6127.91 which they earned mostly through vegetable cultivation or labour work. The primary challenge of the study was to motivate and convince the women beneficiaries of Syalikhet village to adapt the poultry farming as a new source of income. It was done with the help of trainings and talks by various experts from university and sharing the success stories of farmers engaged and earning through poultry farming. It is evident from the work done by various groups that backward poultry farming is a profitable enterprise for income generation especially in hilly regions (Hussain et al., 2017; Singh et al., 2015). The poultry farming intervention made women of Syalikhet able to earn through production of coloured eggs, locally known as ‘Desi’ eggs. The village got popular in the locale as Poultry village due to black fowls and indigenous ‘desi’ eggs. Some of the women were seen utilizing the benefits to the fullest and generating regular income by establishing proper poultry units. It was found that 10% of the total beneficiaries performed exceptionally well and took the poultry farming to higher level through local innovation and proper management. Their additional earning is sufficed with sale of poultry for meat purpose at hotels and restaurants as well as for domestic consumption. Other adopted families also worked well with monthly production of about 15-25 eggs which were being sold in local markets and road side restaurants at the rate of Rs. 8-10 per egg. Some families have also sold black fowls during festival season at the rate of Rs. 800 to 1000 per fowl, due to high preference of black fowls as offerings at temples in local tradition. The average monthly income from poultry intervention was Rs. 2491 per woman, raising their income from Rupees 11600.00 to 14091.00 per month plus substantial increase in the number of fowls which has grown up to 30 to 40 percent per family. The overall benefit cost ratio was also calculated for the intervention. The gross cost of intervention was approximately Rupees 76,000.00 including cost of chicks, feed, cage and veterinary assistance and the gross return and net return was approximately Rupees 99,640.00 and 23,640.00 respectively. Hence the benefit cost ratio was found to be 1.3. There are several studies where the backyard poultry farming system has been analysed as a good source of income but the studies in hilly areas using the local breeds of poultry are still not sufficient (Kumaresan et al., 2008; Kamboj and Kashyap, 2021). \r\nThe provision of protein supplement in routine diet, generation of additional income and religious/cultural considerations were amongst the major reasons for the involvement of women beneficiaries of Syalikhet village in poultry farming. The study also documented that most eggs were sold off to nearby local markets and road side restaurants and few were used for production of new chicks by natural brooding. Among the total returns, major share of return came either from selling live birds for consumption or as offerings during religious ceremonies. In social context, birds were also gifted to guests and friends as token of gratitude and to build relationships and social support. While more than 75%of the households reported to sale live birds for meat consumption, about 60% reported to sale eggs. A majority of the households i.e. more than 60% reported that they themselves consumed only 25% of eggs and rest sold in the local market. The increase in income was also contributed by reduced mortality of birds due to low-cost cages constructed by beneficiaries using net provided under the intervention (Fig. 2). One more important aspect which is significantly important is that, amidst the COVID-19 pandemic which has affected each and every sector of the economy, this intervention of backyard poultry farming became the boon for hill women (Yadav and Agarwal 2021; Ivanov, 2020). A part of the profit earned by the beneficiaries was deposited into bank as savings to be used for paying school fees of their children and buying basic amenities for daily use at home. The impact of current intervention was also analysed in terms of satisfaction level of women beneficiaries. They are happy, satisfied and looking towards more such ventures which could bring back their male counterparts back to village. Through this initiative they are able to generate choices to improve their life, which somehow empowering them and this is a small, yet significant step toward doubling farmer’s income. \r\n\r\n','Aman Kamboj and Shivendra Kumar Kashyap (2022). Poultry Farming Intervention through Uttara Fowl for Livelihood and Economic Empowerment of Women Beneficiaries under ICAR-Farmer First Project in Uttarakhand (India). Biological Forum – An International Journal, 14(2): 1293-1297.'),(5052,'125','Effect of Seed Priming with Micronutrients on Germination of Coriander (Coriandrum sativum L.) var Jawahar Dhaniya-1','Parul Mehra*, Reena Nair and Surabhi Jain','225 Effect of Seed Priming with Micronutrients on Germination of Coriander _Coriandrum sativum L._ var Jawahar Dhaniya-1 Parul Mehra.pdf','',1,'In order to evaluate the effects of seed priming with micronutrients on germination performance of the Coriander, an experiment was carried out under laboratory condition at the Department of Horticulture, Jawaharlal Nehru Krishi Vishwa Vidyalaya, Jabalpur, Madhya Pradesh during Rabi season of 2020-2021. The experiment was laid out in Completely Randomized Design (CRD) with three replications and seven treatments viz. Cu @ 150 ppm, Cu @ 300 ppm, Cu @ 450 ppm, Mn @ 150 ppm, Mn @ 300 ppm, Mn @ 450 ppm and control. On the basis of mean performance for germination parameters viz., germination percentage, mean germination time, shoot length, root length, vigour index-I and vigour index-II, seed priming with 450 ppm Manganese significantly influenced all the germination parameters. Seed priming had significantly improved the germination parameters and seedling vigour. As the major constraints in successful crop production are poor germination and inappropriate crop stand which can be mitigated by the use of seed priming.','Micronutrients, germination parameters, Manganese, mitigated ','As regards to germination and seedling vigour parameters, the best results were recorded when seed of coriander var Jawahar Dhaniya-1 were primed with Manganese at 450 ppm closely followed by Copper at 450 ppm. The micronutrients as well as their appropriate concentrations play an important role in enhancing the germination and further growth of crop. Seed priming can be considered as the best method to enhance the seed performance. For further research, seed priming with different micronutrients and different priming techniques can also be included. Seed priming has scope in future as it is one of simplest way of dealing with poor germination of seeds.','INTRODUCTION\r\nSpices apart from adding rich flavour, taste and colour to the food also has medicinal values. Coriander (Coriandrum sativum L.) also known as Cilantro, Chinese parsley or Dhaniya is one the important spice crop utilized daily in one form or the other. It belongs to the family Apiaceae and is native of Mediterranean region. It is an annual herbaceous plant best grown between October and February. In early stage of growth, the plant requires a cool climate and warm weather at maturity. It’s tender aerial parts stem, leaf, fruits are used due to aromatic flavour. The entire plant when young is used in preparing chutneys and sauces. Coriander seeds possess immense medicinal values. Oleoresin extracted from coriander seeds is used in flavouring beverages, pickles and sweets. The crop is grown almost all the states of the country but Madhya Pradesh, Rajasthan, Gujarat, Assam, West Bengal, Uttar Pradesh and Andhra Pradesh are the major coriander growing states. Madhya Pradesh produces quality coriander and enjoys major share in area and production in the country. Madhya Pradesh is the leading state in area and production of seed coriander with 274475.47 ha and 373347.99 MT production respectively (Anonymous, 2020).\r\n Rapid germination, emergence of seedlings establishment and uniform crop stand are essential for successful crop establishment. But the major constraints in successful crop production in Coriander are poor germination and inappropriate crop stand. This problem can be curtailed by adding seed priming in production practice (Chivasa et al., 1998). Seed priming is a physiological method of controlled hydration followed by drying up to its original moisture content. The main aim behind seed priming is to enhance sufficient pre-germination metabolic process for rapid germination (Dawood, 2018). It is a simple, effective and low cost technique to ensure uniform emergence and high vigour of seeds which is leading to better crop establishment and yield. The quality of seed can also be enhanced by seed priming. Munawar et al. (2013) conducted a field experiment to study the effect of seed priming on germination and establishment of seedlings in carrot. Three micronutrients i.e. Zn, Mn and B in different concentration were used for priming. Significant differences were observed among treatments for emergence percentage and other seedling traits observed. Seed priming with boron solution inhibited the germination. Highest emergence percentage, rate of emergence, vigour index, hundred seedling weight were observed in case of seed priming with Zn (1.5%) solution. Mn (1.5%) and Mn (2%) solution showed highest mean shoot length and root length respectively. Jamshidian and Talat (2017) explained that seed priming in coriander with different solutions (water, Folic acid 75 mmol, Indole Acetic Acid 20ppm, humic acid 200mg/l, Ascorbic acid 30mg/l, P 100mmol, K2SO4100mmol, Zinc 100mmol, GA3 40ppm) for 24 hours at 25°C have significant effect on the agronomic performance measurements including fresh weight of plant, plant height, distance of the first branch from ground, number of umbels, number of compound leaves, leaf surface area, total dry weight and seed weight.\r\nSeed priming also proved to be beneficial in improving the seedling vigour, increasing shoot and root length, seedling fresh and dry weight, it is because due to priming leaching of growth inhibitors takes place and the activities of different enzymes like malate synthase, malate dehydrogenase and iso-citrate lyase enhanced (Lin and Sung, 2001). \r\nMATERIAL AND METHODS\r\nThe experiment was conducted in Completely Randomized Design under laboratory conditions, at Department of Horticulture, College of Agriculture, Jabalpur, Jawaharlal Nehru Krishi Vishwa Vidyalaya, Jabalpur, Madhya Pradesh during Rabi season of 2020- 2021. The experiment consists of seven treatments viz. seed priming with Copper @ 150 ppm, Copper @ 300 ppm, Copper @ 450 ppm, Manganese @ 150 ppm, Manganese @ 300 ppm, Manganese @ 450 ppm and control (Seed soaking in distilled water). The seeds were splitted into two halves before soaking them in different solutions of Copper and Manganese for 16 hr followed by surface washing with tap water and drying for 48 hr to their original moisture content. Seeds were sown in three portrays for evaluating germination and seed vigour parameter. Each protray was having 98 cells, therefore, there were 98 seeds per replication. The lab was visited on daily basis and data was recorded for germination and seedling vigour parameters. After complete germination, germination percentage was calculated. The numbers of germinated seeds were counted on daily basis and the data were complied successfully and germination percentage was calculated by following formula.\r\n Germination percentage (G%)= \r\n(Total no.of germinated seeds of a treatment)/(Total no.of seeds sown in treatment)×100\r\nThe Mean Germination Time (MGT) was calculated based on following equation of Ellis and Roberts (1981).\r\n Mean Germination Time (MGT)=(∑▒nd)/N\r\nwhere, Σn = n1 + n2 + n3 + n4 + n5 +……………..+ nt\r\nn = number of seeds which were germinated on each day, d = number of days from the beginning of germination test. N = total number of seeds germinated at the termination of the experiment.\r\nThe root length and shoot length of randomly selected 10 seedlings of each treatment were recorded at 15 days after sowing.\r\nThe Vigour index of seedlings was computed by adopting the method suggested by Abdul Baki and Anderson (1973).\r\n Vigour Index I=Germination (%)×Seedling length (cm)\r\n Vigour Index II=Germination (%)×Seedling dry weight (g)\r\nRESULT AND DISCUSSION\r\nSeed priming with different concentration of micronutrients Cu and Mn, presented in Table 1 depicted and illustrated in Fig. 1 significant variation in germination parameters of coriander seeds under laboratory conditions. The data indicated that the seeds primed with Mn @ 450 ppm (SP6) recorded maximum germination percentage (96.18 %) followed by Cu @ 450 ppm (SP3) with 95.81 % and Cu @ 300 ppm (SP5) with 93.78 % germination percentage (GI) over unprimed seeds (SP7). Seeds primed with Mn @ 450 ppm recorded the significant improvement in all the germination parameters as well as seedling vigour. Similar results have been reported by Babaeva et al. (1999) on priming of Echinacea purpurea (L.). They revealed that seed primed with 0.1% MnSO4 solution enhanced germination by 36% and also improved stand establishment. The high germination percentage (96.18 %) and synchronized germination of primed seeds was due to reduction in the lag time of germination (Brocklehurst and Dearman 2008) and activation of enzymes (Lee and Kim 2000). Primed seeds quickly imbibe water and restore seed metabolism thereby increasing the rate of germination (Jisha et al., 2013).\r\nWith respect to the data of mean germination time (MGT) of coriander presented in Table 2 and Fig. 2, significant variation was recorded among different priming treatments. Among treatments Mn @ 450 ppm (SP6) primed seeds exhibited least mean germination time (MGT) i.e., 6.99 followed by Cu @ 450 ppm (SP3) with 7.51 and Mn @ 300 ppm (SP5) with 7.94 MGT. It was maximum (8.56 days) in control (SP7). Enhanced germination parameters may be due to the various biochemical, physiological and molecular change that start during seed priming which includes build up of germination enhancing metabolites (Hussain et al., 2015), metabolic repair during imbibition (Farooq et al., 2006), reducing damage to protein, RNA-DNA (Farooq et al., 2009), synthesis of protein, nucleic acids and repairing of membranes (McDonald, 2000). \r\n \r\nThe result of seedling shoot and root length presented in Table 2 and illustrated in Fig. 3 revealed that the different priming concentration of Cu and Mn have significantly increased the length of shoot. The maximum shoot length 2.96 cm was observed when the seeds were treated with Mn @ 450 ppm (SP6) followed by SP5 (Mn @ 300 ppm) with 2.79 cm. The shoot length was the minimum (2.33 cm) in SP7 (control). Significantly maximum root length 9.21cm was measured in the seedling of SP6 (Mn @ 450 ppm) followed by SP5 (Mn@ 300ppm) with 8.20 cm root length. The minimum root length 5.81 cm was observed in unprimed seeds. Munawar et al. (2013) also concluded that seed treated with Mn 1.5 % and Mn 2% showed highest shoot and root length respectively.\r\nThe data of Vigour index I and Vigour index II was computed and represented in Table 2 and illustrated in Fig. 4 and 5. The data revealed that there was a positive influence of micronutrients and their specific concentration on the vigour index. The highest value 1172.72 and 5.36 of vigour index I and vigour index II respectively was observed from treatment SP6 (Seed priming with Mn @ 450 ppm) followed by SP3 (Cu @ 450 ppm). The lowest vigour index- I (714.67) and vigour index-II (3.17) was recorded in control over control. Munawar et al. (2013) also revealed that seed priming with Mn improves the vigour index in carrot. Farooq et al. (2012) reported that seed priming with Mn improves seedling establishment.\r\n','Parul Mehra, Reena Nair and Surabhi Jain (2022). Effect of Seed Priming with Micronutrients on Germination of Coriander (Coriandrum sativum L.) var Jawahar Dhaniya-1. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 14(2): 1298-1302.'),(5053,'125','Diversity and Abundance of Spider Mites and Associated Predatory Mites of Shivamogga Region','Safeena Majeed A.A.*, Rajashekharappa K., Srinivasa N., Jayalaxmi Narayan Hegde and Chinnamadegowda C.C.\r\n','226 Diversity and Abundance of Spider Mites and Associated Predatory Mites of Shivamogga Region Safeena Majeed.pdf','',1,'Diversity of spider mites collected from October 2019 to October 2021 from Shivamogga district across 42 host plants comprising of cultivated crops, forest trees, grasses and weeds was investigated. A total of 16 species of tetranychid mites were recorded and Tetranychus macfarlanei Baker & Pritchard was the most abundant species followed by Tetranychus truncatus Ehara and Tetranychus neocaledonicus Andre. Oligonychus grypus Baker & Pritchard is recorded for the first time from Karnataka and Penisetum glaucum (L.), while Apluda mutica L. are the new hosts globally. T. macfarlanei and T. truncatus are reported for the first time from Tinospora cardifolia (Thunb.). Among the 16 species, one Tetranychus species could be identified only up to the genus level due to unavailability of males and unsuccessful multiplication of mites in the laboratory. All these spider mites are found associated with Phytoseiid predatory mites viz., Amblyseius paraaerialis Muma, Amblyseius largoensis (Muma), Amblyseius shoreae Gupta, Transeius tetranychivorus (Gupta), Neoseilus longispinosus (Evans), Paraphytoseius sp., Phytoseius sp., Euseius sp. and mite predators of the family Stigmaeidae, Tydeidae and Bdellidae. The study has documented diversity of both of pestiferous phytophagous mites across different ecosystems though alarms the potential of mite pests, the documentation oflocally available predatory mites, highlights the possibility of their usage in biological control.','Tetranychid mites, diversity, abundance, Shivamogga district, phytoseiids','The present study has reported 16 spider mite species associated with variety of host plants and ecosystems from Shivamogga region, has apprehended the potentiality of spider mites as emerging pests and need of their control. Also, the study has enlisted eight species of the locally available predatory mites and possibility of their usage in biological control of spider mites and other sucking pests.','INTRODUCTION\r\nMites are ubiquitous found in both terrestrial and aquatic habitats. The guild “Plant mites” consists of many mite species belonging to different taxa. In view of global importance as pest, tetranychids ranks first, damage all types of crops including field, vegetable, fruit, ornamental, medicinal and aromatic plants (Vacante, 2015). In spite of this huge diversity, so far reported spider mites from India are only 122 species (Migeon & Dorkeld 2022). Because their precise identification problem due to their small size, cryptic nature, limited number of available morphological characters and similarity between species. In addition, both sexes are often needed in order to arrive to precise determinations in many species. Hence, unfortunately much less well known than other groups in the phylum Arthropoda, except few extensive collections by Gupta.\r\nGupta (1976) reported 32 species under 11 genera and reviewed the spider mites of India and reported 83 species under 18 genera (Gupta, 1983 & 1985). Further he reported occurrence of 100 species under 20 genera from India (Gupta, 1991) and in 1994 reported 101 species (Gupta & Gupta 1994). From Karnataka, Zeity (2011) recorded the diversity of mites in Lalbagh Botanical Garden, Bengaluru and enlisted 71 species of mites belonging to 38 genera and 17 families. Again, similar study was conducted in 17 districts of Karnataka and reported 46 tetranychid mite species, among which 13 species were first records from India (Zeity, 2015). Shivamogga district, being the entrance door of western ghats and known for its huge biodiversity across plants and animals, but information on diversity of tetranychid mite from the area is lacking. Hence the resent study was framed to explore the faunal diversity of tetranychid mites in Shivamogga district and associated predatory mites were also documented, which can be further exploited in biological control of mites and other sucking pests. \r\nMATERIAL AND METHODS\r\nDuring this study, major agricultural and horticultural ecosystems including pasture lands of Shivamogga were sampled during different seasons for the occurrence of mites. Using a 10X hand lens, the presence/ absence of spider mites will be examined and plant material with mites were sampled in polyethylene bags with a proper label. The collected samples were examined under a stereo microscope for spider mites. The mites collected were mounted on glass slides using Hoyer’s medium. The collection data were recorded on the slides. The slides were examined under a Phase contrast microscope, Zeiss® ScopeA1. The mites were identified to the species level using keys provided by Krantz (1978). District map of location sampled was constructed using QGIS 3.20.2. Software and abundance of species were analysed using Shannon- Wiener diversity index.\r\nRESULTS AND DISCUSSION\r\nRepresentative samples were collected different talukas of Shivamogga for the presence of spider mites (Fig. 1). A total of 16 species of tetranychid mites were recorded across 42 host plants (Table 1) comprising of cultivated, forest and pasture ecosystems. These mites belonged to four genus viz., Tetranychus, Oligonychus, Schizotetranychus and Eutetranychus. Of which, Oligonychus grypus Baker & Pritchard was recorded for the first time from Karnataka, while their host plants Pennisetum glaucum (L.) and Apluda mutica L. were new host records globally. This mite was earlier reported on Oryza sativa from Tamil Nadu (Kowsika, 2015) is the only other report available on the species from India.\r\nThe host plant, Tinospora cardifolia (Thunb.) was first time reported as host for spider mite species Tetranychus macfarlanei Baker & Pritchard and Tetranychus truncatus Ehara. Among all the 16 spider mite species, T. macfarlanei was the most abundant species followed by T. truncatus and Tetranychus neocaledonicus Andre (Fig. 2). Contrast to this earlier research states Tetranychus urticae Koch was the most predominant species in and around Coimbatore district of Tamil Nadu (Kowsika, 2015) and with wide host range including vegetable and fruit crops (Nandagopal and Gedia 1995) and most common on eggplant and okra (Singh and Mukherjee 1991). Reason behind such changing pest status of spider mites unlike T. urticae in other parts contrary to T. macfarlanei in Shivamogga has to be addressed by future research. \r\nIn addition, predatory mites associated with spider mites were also collected and identified. Mites of the family Phytoseiidae, Stigmaeidae, Tydeidae and Bdellidae were identified, of which Phytoseid predators were more abundant (Fig. 3). The genus Amblyseius was more with respect to number of species (Amblyseius paraaerialis Muma, Amblyseius largoensis (Muma) and Amblyseius shoreae Gupta), while Neoseilus longispinosus (Evans) was more wide spread found feeding on nine species of prey mite species (Table 2).',' Safeena Majeed A.A., Rajashekharappa K., Srinivasa N., Jayalaxmi Narayan Hegde and Chinnamadegowda C.C. (2022). Diversity and Abundance of Spider Mites and Associated Predatory Mites of Shivamogga Region. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 14(2): 1303-1307.'),(5054,'125','Relationship of Meteorological variables with an Epiphytotic of Powdery Mildew Disease of Okra','Jitendar Kumar Sharma*, H. V. S. Shekhawat, Neeshu Joshi, Pravin R. Patil, Richa Sachan and Kapil Sharma','227 Relationship of Meteorological variables with an Epiphytotic of Powdery Mildew Disease of Okra Jitendar Kumar Sharma.pdf','',1,'Powdery mildew (Erysiphe cichoracearum DC) is a serious disease of okra and causes heavy losses both in the field. The damage caused by powdery mildew may be manifested as a direct fall in the yield, because of suppression or distortion of plant growth. There is no definite evidence available regarding the conditions which help the outbreak of okra mildew. Therefore, okra powdery mildew disease development and progress in relation to meteorological factors were studied in a natural/field condition. Amidst the twelve factors, the mean temperature, maximum temperature, GDD, AGDD, bright sun shine hours and crop age shown significantly positive correlation while, significantly negative correlation was shown by morning relative humidity, afternoon relative humidity, mean relative humidity and minimum temperature with the powdery mildew intensity of okra, in Kharif season. Through the regression analysis it was found that mean relative humidity, afternoon relative humidity and crop age were the crucial factors for the spread of powdery mildew during Kharif season.','Meteorological variables, Abelmoschus esculentus, powdery mildew','From the results of the present investigation, it is very clear that in Navsari district powdery mildew of okra is high to moderately occurring throughout the year. In the presence of favourable climatic conditions the infection on leaf recorded very huge quantity of inoculums. Due to presence of heavy load of inoculum, the pathogen attacked on all the leaves (Lower, Middle and Upper, respectively). So, the weather during the period between 38st to 42nd SMW were very congenial for powdery mildew development in okra and afternoon relative humidity, mean relative humidity and crop age were the crucial factors for the development of powdery mildew during Kharif season.','INTRODUCTION\r\nOkra [Abelmoschus esculentus (L.) Moench], crop is suitable for cultivation as a garden crop as well as on large commercial farms. This crop is an economically important vegetable crop grown in tropical and sub-tropical parts of the world. In India okra is cultivated in an estimated area of 526.00 (000 ha) with production of 6460.00 (000 MT) & productivity of 12.10 MT/ha (Anonymous, 2018). In Gujarat, okra is mainly grown in Vadodara, Surat, Junagadh, Banaskantha and Bhavnagar districts throughout the year providing continuous and good source of income to the farmers. In Gujarat, it is grown on an area of 75.27 thousand hectares with a production of 921.72 thousand metric tonnes having average productivity of 10.90 MT/ha (Anonymous, 2018).\r\nAmongst various factors diseases are major constraints for low yield of okra (Sastry, 1974). A number of viral, fungal and bacterial diseases of okra have been reported in India. powdery mildew caused by Erysiphe cichoracearum DC is most important among the fungal diseases affecting okra crop, as it causes considerable yield losses. In India, the disease has been reported from Delhi (Prabhu et al., 1971) followed by Karnataka (Sohi and Sokhi, 1973), Maharashtra (Jambhale and Nerkar 1983) and Himachal Pradesh (Raj et al., 1992). The occurrence of the disease has also been reported from Mexico (Diaz-Franco, 1999). The symptoms of the disease appears as white powdery minute patches first on the upper surface of lower older leaves and then spreads to younger ones. In severely affected leaves grayish white powdery coating is visible and leaves show necrosis resulting in withering, drying and defoliation. (Sridhar and Sinha, 1989) reported yield losses to the tune of 17 to 86.6 per cent due to powdery mildew in affected plants of all growth stages. If the infection takes place in early stages of plant growth the crop yield losses are significantly more under favourable weather conditions (Gupta and Thind, 2006). In southern regions of the state and other parts of the country this powdery mildew pathogen is known to produce only the conidial or anamorphic stage. The identification of the pathogen is therefore done only on the basis of the anamorphic stage.\r\n Powdery mildew causing fungi are very fast growing pathogens, having 4 to 5 days of latent period therefore, timely decision is important for their management (Sinha et al., 2001). For crops, there is no appropriate forewarning system for powdery mildews except for grapes and mango. In the absence of any forewarning information, growers suffer heavy yield loss. \r\nAccording to (Singh, 1996) epidemiology includes the study of the factors associated with disease development. The five major components of the disease viz., susceptible host, virulent pathogen and favourable weather with time and space causes epidemic. Accurate forecast of the crop age at first appearance of the disease and the risk of a mildew epidemic would enable farmers to decide on optimum timing of fungicide sprays and to avoid unnecessary pesticide application. Hence, the present study was undertaken to find out the relationship of meteorological parameters with disease development.\r\nMATERIAL AND METHOD\r\nThe field experiment was conducted at research farm, N.M. College of Agriculture., N.A.U., Navsari during Kharif 2014. The experiment was kept totally unprotected without any application of fungicides /botanicals. All the good agricultural practices were followed as per the recommendation.\r\nTo determine the influence of various physical factors of environment on the development of the powdery mildew of okra, the data on powdery mildew intensity were correlated with different meteorological parameters viz., morning relative humidity (RH1), afternoon relative humidity (RH2), average relative humidity, maximum temperature (Max. Temp.), minimum temperature (Min. Temp.), average temperature (Av. Temp.), rain fall (RF), sunshine hours (SH) and wind speed (WS) through analysis of correlation regression. The corresponding data on various weather parameters were collected from meteorology department of university. The powdery mildew intensity was recorded at weekly interval adjusting standard week in the field of susceptible variety Gitanjali. The per cent disease intensity for powdery mildew were recorded by using formula proposed by Wheeler (1969). Powdery mildew intensity observed during the crop season at standard week’s interval was correlated with the D-7 (Days prior to observation) weather parameters. For the regression equations, the multiple step wise regression analysis was carried out.\r\nDisease rating scale for powdery mildew\r\n0 = No symptoms on the leaf\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\n1 = Small powdery specks on the leaves covering 1% or less area \r\n3 = Small powdery patches, scattered, covering 1-10% of leaf area\r\n5 = Large powdery patches, scattered, covering 11-25% of the leaf area \r\n7 = Large powdery patches coalescing, covering 26-50% of leaf area\r\n9 = Powdery growth covering 51% or more of leaf area. Leaves tum yellow and dry up.\r\nRESULTS AND DISCUSSION\r\nSeverity and Progress of powdery mildew: The observations of powdery mildew intensity were recorded at weekly interval from initiation of disease on susceptible variety Gitanjali of okra grown at N. M. C. A. farm, Navsari during kharif 2014-15 (Table 1). The initiation of the disease was first noticed after 59 days of sowing (0.67%). After that, the linear progress of the disease was observed up to the maturity of the crop. The disease was appeared (0.67%) at flowering stage (35th SMW) and found highest (68.44 %) at maturity (42nd SMW). The disease development was recorded higher during 38th to 41st SMW. The disease progress was found higher during 66 to 87 days of crop age i.e. at fruiting period.\r\nCorrelation: The extent of association between PDI with different meteorological factors, heat unit and crop age are given in correlation coefficient values of Table 2. Out of twelve factors, significantly positive correlation was shown by the mean temperature (0.695), maximum temperature (0.890), bright sun shine hours (0.902), GDD (0.710), AGDD (0.957) and crop age (0.942) whereas, minimum temperature (-0.840), morning relative humidity (-0.845), afternoon relative humidity (-0.922) and mean relative humidity (-0.905) shown significantly negative correlation with the per cent disease intensity. Similarly, the significant and positive correlation of AUDPC with mean temperature (0.678), maximum temperature (0.879), GDD (0.693), AGDD (0.947), bright sun shine hours (0.890) and crop age (0.931) were found to have significantly positive correlation with the progress of the disease while, morning relative humidity (-0.787), afternoon relative humidity (-0.898), minimum temperature (-0.864) and mean relative humidity (-0.879) were noted to have significantly negative correlation.\r\nRegression: The various meteorological factors, heat unit (GDD and AGDD) and crop age were assessed to formulate the simple and effective linear regression equation for powdery mildew disease prediction. The mean, maximum and minimum temperature replaced by GDD and AGDD when heat unit were used in regression analysis. An independent variable viz., average of 7 previous days (D-7) of meteorological factors from initiation to maturity of crop heat unit (GDD and AGDD) and crop age with dependent variable PDI and AUDPC at respective SMW were analyzed by multiple step wise regression analysis.\r\nGenerally, under the congenial environmental conditions the pathogen becomes most active over the susceptible host. These important factors were critically studied during kharif 2014-15. The data presented in Table 3 showed, meteorological factors viz., mean relative humidity (X6), afternoon relative humidity (X5) and crop age (X10) were found as a most crucial factors for the disease development under natural conditions in kharif season. 97.5 per cent (R2 = 0.975) variation was found by this regression equation. So, mean relative humidity, afternoon relative humidity and crop age were found most responsible factors for the development of okra powdery mildew during kharif season. The obtained regression equation for the prediction of PDI (Y) is as under: \r\nY = -168.2943 – 3.4904 (X5) +4.552 (X6) -0.8580 (X10) (1) \r\nData of regression analysis on an average heat index (GDD and AGDD) of D-7, meteorological factors and crop age, with Per cent disease intensity during kharif season are given in Table 4, showed that AGDD, afternoon relative humidity and crop age (as independent variable) with PDI (as dependent variable), were crucial factors contributing in powdery mildew epidemics development. Regression equation R2 value of 0.984 indicates that 98.4 per cent of the variation of the disease recorded by these three variables. So, AGDD, afternoon relative humidity and crop age were found as most responsible factors, which can predict the PDI (Y) of okra powdery mildew under natural conditions. The obtained equation is :\r\nY= 20.5474 – 0.7997 (X2) -0.0144 (X8) + 0.8299 (X9) (2)\r\nThe data obtained from Present study are in confirmation with the several reports of earlier workers. Solanki et al. (1999) was given similar confirmation who found that powdery mildew intensity proportional with the crop age in powdery mildew of mustard and found that mean temperature, GDD, AGDD, bright sun shine hours and crop age were significantly and positively correlated with powdery mildew disease intensity. These results are also in similarity with the observations of Kohire et al. (2008) and Gupta et al., (2001). The result is moderately similar with the confirmation of Singh et al., (2008) who found that maximum temperature were significantly and positively correlated, whereas bright sun shine hours and wind speed negatively correlated with powdery mildew disease intensity and AUDPC. Similarly, Vikas and Ratnoo (2013) observed that rainfall and sunshine hours significantly negatively correlated with powdery mildew intensity. According to Singh and Pannu (2013) minimum temperature, Maximum temperature, morning relative humidity, afternoon relative humidity and rainfall significantly positively correlated with powdery mildew disease intensity.\r\nMoreover, there was negligible rainfall occurred in kharif during fruiting stage. In high rainfall areas and periods, powdery mildews decrease as rainfall increases (Agrios, 2005) but other diseases become more prevalent. High spore dispersal is aided by light rainfall. Two main mechanisms are involved, the splash effect (Gregory, 1961) and the rain tap and puff effect (Hirst & Stedman, 1963). The rain tap effect in case of okra powdery mildew is important both quantitatively and qualitatively for two reasons. First, presence of free water negatively affects the germination of conidia (Willocquet and Clerjeau 1998). Second, on the lower surface of leaves powdery mildew colonies are mostly located, especially at the onset of the growing season. Since, rain drops are not going to hit these colonies, the rain tap effect becomes the most important mechanism of spore dispersal by rain. Thus light rainfall can be considered as favourable to the fungus in case of okra, as it would allow dispersal without the drawbacks associated with heavy or continuous rain. \r\nThe conidial stock is likely to decrease under continuous rain and conidia may be washed off from leaves, leading to a decrease in spore concentration. Decrease in various other powdery mildews due to rain have also been reported (Willocquet and Clerjeau 1998; Hammett & Manners 1971; Sutton & Jones 1979; Pauvert, 1986). Continuous rainfall causes physical damage to leaf surface mycelium and conidiophores leading to unfavourable conditions for okra powdery mildew. Iqbal et al. (1996) stated that powdery mildew of cucurbits in India occurred when temperature was 20 to 30 °C with rain free weather. In present study the optimum maximum and minimum temperature for maximization of powdery mildew severity on okra leaves were 36.7 and 22.5°C for kharif under field conditions was in confirmation to Bhattacharya and Shukla (2002) who have pointed out that optimum temperature for development of powdery mildew severity were 37.4 and 21.4°C under irrigated conditions. E. cichoracearum from cantaloupe showed a temperature optimum of 25° to 28°C on the basis of in vivo length of hyphae reported by Yarwood et al. (1954). They also observed that growing mycelia are apparently more sensitive to high temperature than are quiescent conidia. The LD 50 of 37°C air temperature for a 3-day infection of E. cichoracearum on cucumber was about 10 hours, while with freshly inoculated leaves it was about 20 hours. \r\nThe short life of powdery-mildew conidia is associated with their high water content (Yarwood, 1950). But E. cichoracearum is more tolerant of high temperature than other Erysiphe spp. because it has lowest water containing conidia among the powdery mildews and has the longest-lived conidia at ordinary temperatures (Yarwood, 1954).\r\nWide variation (10-15°C) in the maximum and minimum temperature and day and night relative humidity (30-40%) increases powdery mildew intensity in cucumber (Gupta et al., 2001). They also reported that too high and too low temperature did not favour powdery mildew development. The optimum temperature and relative humidity for conidial germination is 25°C and 100 per cent, respectively. \r\nAt 20°C conidia production is optimal and declines rapidly above and below that temperature (Ward and Manners, 1974). Conidia are capable of disseminating the fungus long distances although they survive only for few days. Repeating cycles of spores are provided as new pustules with conidia are produced every seven to ten days at optimal conditions. Conidia germination at 97 to 100 per cent relative humidity is found to be most rapid, but they germinate when humidity declines below 50 percent. However, below 92 per cent relative humidity germ tube growth and appressorium production are greatly reduced (Friedrich and Boyle, 1993). \r\nAccording to Jyothi (2014) conidia of powdery mildew germinated at 65 per cent and 100 per cent humidity, indicated the ability of fungus to infect both under dry and humid conditions. Similarly, Jacob et al. (2008) and Gupta and Sharma (2009) reported that conidia of Oidium lycopersici germinate well at 65 to 100% RH and best at 95%. They also reported that low light intensity was associated with optimal germination. The bright sunny periods militate against the development of the fungus, and have a lethal effect on detached spores (Peries, 1965). Bhattacharya and Shukla (2002) concluded that increase in temperature and sunshine duration had positive effect on powdery mildew severity, whereas, relative humidity was negative under both irrigated and rainfed conditions. High association of powdery mildew severity with sunshine duration could be possible by its indirect effects as has been suggested by Calhoun (1973) or due to changes in sun\'s inclination resulting increase in temperature with sunshine duration and evapo-transpiration (Rotem, 1978). Germination decreased or was delayed in the presence of free water demonstrated by Butt (1978). While, according to Kohire et al., (2008) dry and cool environmental conditions that means temperature range between 12.2 to 22.8°C and low relative humidity from 30.2 to 48.8 % ideal for conidial germination. The result was also more or less similar with the findings of Vikas and Ratnoo (2013); Singh et al. (2008).\r\n','Jitendar Kumar Sharma, H.V.S. Shekhawat, Neeshu Joshi, Pravin R. Patil, Richa Sachan and Kapil Sharma (2022). Relationship of Meteorological variables with an Epiphytotic of Powdery Mildew Disease of Okra. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 14(2): 1308-1313.'),(5055,'125','Growth and Yield of Maize (Zea mays L.) as Influenced by Nutrient Management through Soil Test Crop Response (STCR) approach at varied Soil Fertility Gradients in Vertisols','Roopa K. Muttappanavar*, C.P. Chandrashekara and M.P. Potdar','228 Growth and Yield of Maize _Zea mays L._ as Influenced by Nutrient Management through Soil Test Crop Response _STCR_ approach at varied Soil Fertility Gradients in Vertisols Roopa K.pdf','',1,'Maize being a high yielding cereal crop which is responsive to chemical fertilizers. Nutrient management through Soil Test Crop Response (STCR) equations cannot be adopted without validation study because, they are very specific to a type of crop, soil, season and situation (Irrigated/ rainfed). So, the validation of the STCR fertilizer prescription equations for maize in Northern Transition Zone of Karnataka is very much essential to identify the most suitable STCR prescription model for cultivation of maize in Vertisols to exploit greater yield potential of a crop. A field experiment was conducted during summer and Kharif 2018-19. There were two phases of the field experimentation. Gradient experiment (Phase I) was conducted during summer, 2018 by growing an exhaustive crop fodder maize to create fertility gradient (FG). Phase II experiment on validation of STCR equations carried out during Kharif, 2018-19 in split plot design with three fertility gradients (low, medium and high) as main plots and four STCR equations developed for maize at Jabalpur, Jagtial, Rahuri and Coimbatore, RDF and control as sub plot treatments. Maize green fodder yield increased with increasing fertilizer levels (25.53, 34.63 and 40.38 t ha-1, 0, 100 and 200 %, respectively) and gradients are created. Among soil fertility gradients, higher grain and stover (82.3 and 101.2 q ha-1, respectively) yields were recorded with medium FG than low FG. However, high FG was on par with MFG. Nutrients applied as per Jabalpur STCR equation recorded higher grain and stover yield (101.4 and 120.9 q ha-1, respectively) than other STCR equations. Significantly higher growth parameters namely plant height (50.1, 204.3 and 212.6 cm), number of green leaves plant-1 (6.51, 12.6 and 3.1), LA (23.7, 68.1 and 17.8 dm2), LAI (1.97,5.67 and 1.49), LAD (153 and 143 between 40-80 DAS and 80 DAS-at harvest, respectively), SPAD values (45.0 and 54.2 at 40 DAS and 80 DAS respectively) and stem girth (5.21, 8.44 and 8.60 cm) of maize observed with Jabalpur STCR equation at all growth stages (40, 80 DAS and at harvest, respectively) than other STCR equations, RDF and control. Among interactions, nutrients applied as per Jabalpur STCR equation at MFG recorded higher grain and stover yield (105.1 and 124.1 q ha-1) and all the growth parameters than other treatment combinations.','Maize, soil fertility gradients, STCR equations validation, Vertisols, growth and yield','Application of nutrients as per the STCR equation developed at Coimbatore (FN = 4.60 T – 0.55 SN, FP2O5 = 2.25 T – 1.80 SP and FK2O = 5.16 T – 0.49 SK for fertilizer N, P2O5 and K2O in kg ha-1, respectively) for low fertility gradient and Jabalpur STCR equation (FN = 4.40 T – 0.23 SN, FP2O5 = 2.38 T – 1.40 SP and FK2O = 2.07 T – 0.08 SK for fertilizer N, P2O5 and K2O in kg ha-1, respectively) for medium and high fertility gradients were found to be appropriate or adoptable STCR equations for maize crop for obtaining higher growth and yield as compared to other STCR equations and RDF as well as absolute control in Northern Transitional Zone of Karnataka (ACZ - 8).','INTRODUCTION\r\nMaize (Zea mays L.) is one of the most widely grown cereal crop which stands first with respect to production in the world. It is grown in an area of 184.3 million ha in the world with a production of 1041.7 million tons and 5,742 kg ha-1 productivity annually. In India currently, it is grown in an area of 9.86 million ha with a production of 31.51 million tons and productivity of 3,195 kg ha-1. In Karnataka, maize is grown in an area of 1.68 million ha with a production of 5.18 million tons and productivity of 3,092 kg ha-1 (Anon., 2021).\r\nIn Indian Agriculture, at present, nutrient depletion is one of the threats as there is a wider gap between the removal and addition of nutrients. Agriculture is operating on a net negative balance (@ 10 million tons per annum) of plant nutrients in India (Ramakrishna et al., 2012). Use of fertilizers in an imbalanced manner by the farmer is one of the reason for lower production. Application of fertilizers without knowing the fertility status of the soil and crop nutrient requirement causes negative effects on soil and plant in terms of toxicity and deficiency of nutrients (Ray et al., 2000). For achieving higher yields farmers are using excess inorganic fertilizers but the fertilizer use requires knowledge of expected crop yield and response to applied nutrients. Hence, there is a scope for using different precision nutrient management techniques such as site-specific nutrient management (SSNM), nutrient expert (NE), diagnosis and recommendation integration system (DRIS), critical ratio and Soil Test Crop Response (STCR) approach etc., for balanced nutrition. Among these approaches, STCR approach helps for obtaining higher grain yield by improving the nutrient use efficiency. Fertilizer recommendation is made based on the fertilizer prescription equations in STCR approach. These equations will be developed by establishing a relationship between added fertilizers and soil test values. \r\nThe fertilizer prescription based on STCR model are more precise, quantitative and meaningful because it involves both plant and soil analysis. Whereas, in conventional blanket recommendation, fertilizer prescription is made without considering nutrient contribution from the soil. For balanced fertilization, Ramamoorthy et al. (1967) provided the scientific basis i.e., yield target model which in turn gives a real balance between available nutrients already present in the soil and applied nutrients. The specific yield target equations based on the soil health ensures sustainable crop production (Bera et al., 2006) and also grab the crop growers towards economic use of costly inputs especially the chemical fertilizers depending on their economic status. Venugopalan et al. (2011) suggested that to mitigate the decline in soil fertility problem, nutrient management practices through STCR should be adopted instead of general recommendation for better productivity, environmental safety and sustainability.\r\nAICRP on STCR conducted many studies on development and validation of STCR equations for maize in many states even in Karnataka at Bangalore for red soils but, not for Northern Transitional Zone of Karnataka in Vertisols. So, the equations developed for similar type of soils (medium to deep black) at different places (Jabalpur, Jagtial, Rahuri and Coimbatore) were taken to validate under assured rainfall conditions. The equations cannot be adopted without validation study because, the equations developed elsewhere may not holds good for all the locations due to variation in soil type and climatic conditions and situations from one zone to another zone. So, the validation of the STCR fertilizer prescription equations for maize in Northern Transitional Zone of Karnataka is very much essential to identify the most suitable STCR prescription model for cultivation of maize in Vertisols. Hence, the present studies were under taken with a view of creating varied gradients in soil fertility in one and the same field and validation of different STCR equations for Kharif maize at varied soil fertility gradients.\r\nMATERIAL AND METHODS\r\nA field experiment was carried out at Main Agriculture Research Station (MARS), University of Agricultural Sciences, Dharwad, during 2018, which is situated at 15o 26N latitude and 75o 07 East longitude with an altitude of 678 m MSL. The rainfall during main cropping period was 462.8 mm and mean maximum and minimum temperature were 31.6 and 18.3oC, respectively. A composite soil sample was collected and analysed in order to characterize the experimental soil. The soil of the experimental site was clay (medium to deep black) in texture, neutral in pH (7.4) with medium level of organic carbon (0.54 %) and electrical conductivity of 0.32 dS m-1. The initial status of soil available N, P2O5¬ and K2O was low (257 kg ha-1), medium (31 kg ha-1) and high (362 kg ha-1), respectively.\r\nTreatment structure, soil and plant analysis. The study comprised of two field experiments in two phases viz., fertility gradient experiment with an exhaustive crop of fodder maize var. African Tall (Phase I) to create different fertility gradients within the same field and validation of the STCR equations on varied soil fertility gradients with grain maize hybrid NK-6240 (Phase II). The details of materials used, methods followed, cultural operations cried out and STCR equations adopted in the experiment are described below. The approved treatment structure and lay out design as followed in the All India Coordinated Research Project (AICRP) for Investigations on Soil Test Crop Response (STCR) correlation based on “Inductive cum Targeted yield model” as envisaged by Ramamoorthy et al. (1967) was adopted in the present investigation.\r\nGradient experiment. In the gradient experiment, operational range of variation in soil fertility was created deliberately to generate data covering appropriate range of values for each controllable variable (fertilizer dose) at different levels of uncontrollable variable (soil fertility) which could not be expected to occur at one place normally. Hence, in order to create fertility variations in the same field, a gradient experiment was conducted prior to the validation experiment. \r\nThe entire experimental field was divided into three equal strips. The first strip received no fertilizer (N0P0K0), the second and third strips received 100 per cent (N1P1K1) and 200 per cent (N2P2K2) of the recommended dose of N, P2O5 and K2O kg ha-1, respectively. The recommended dose of fertilizer for fodder maize was 150:100:50 kg N, P2O5 and K2O ha-1, respectively as per the recommendation of University of Agricultural Sciences, Dharwad. After the fertilizer application (50 % N, entire P2O5 and K2O as basal dose and another 50 % N as top dress at 30 DAS), the gradient crop fodder maize (SA-Tall) was grown by using seed rate @ 60 kg ha-1 and the usual agronomic practices were carried out. Crop was grown to milking stage and harvested. At harvest, each fertility strip (strip I, II and III) was divided into three blocks (total nine blocks). The green biomass yield of fodder maize was taken and soil samples from each block were collected separately. Soil samples were processed and analysed for alkaline KMnO4 -N, Olsen-P and NH4OAc-K for estimation of available N, P2O5 and K2O, in I, II and III strips, respectively. The particulars of gradient experiment are depicted in Table 1.\r\n\r\nValidation study. This experiment was laid out in split plot design with three main plot and six sub plot treatments. After the establishment of fertility gradient, the variation in soil fertility at three strips (strip I, II and III) was taken as main plots (L0, L1 and L2 as low, medium and high fertility gradient, respectively) and STCR equations developed for Kharif grain maize under rainfed situation at four different locations viz., Jabalpur, Jagtial, Rahuri and Coimbatore, one RDF and one absolute control as sub plot treatments for validation of STCR equations in phase II experiment. The quantity of nutrients required to achieve target yield of 80 q ha-1 through STCR was calculated by using four different STCR equations and is given Table 2. The STCR equations developed at different locations used in the study were taken from compendium prepared by AICRP on STCR, Indian Institute of Soil Science, Nabibagh, Bhopal (Anon., 2015) and are as follows:\r\nWhere, \r\nFN = Nitrogen supplied through fertilizer in kg ha-1\r\nFP2O5 = Phosphorus supplied through fertilizer in kg ha-1\r\nFK2O = Potassium supplied through fertilizer in kg ha-1\r\nT= Target yield (q ha-1) \r\nSN, SP2O5, SK2O = Initial soil test value for available N, P2O5 and K2O in kg ha-1, respectively.\r\nThe seeds of maize (NK-6240) were hand dibbled @ 22.5 kg ha-1 at 20 cm apart per hill in 60 cm rows to a depth of 4 to 5 cm on 23rd June 2018 and covered with soil. The recommended dose of fertilizer (RDF) for rainfed maize is 100:50:25 kg N: P2O5: K2O ha-1. These fertilizers were applied in the form of urea, diammonium phosphate (DAP) and muriate of potash (MOP), respectively. FYM was applied to the soil at the rate of 7.5 t ha-1 15 days prior to sowing of crop. Full dose of ‘P’ and ‘K’ and one third dose of N was applied as per the treatment and zinc sulphate at the rate of 10 kg ha-1 as basal dose at the time of sowing. ZnSO4 and FYM was common for all the treatments except absolute control. Remaining N was top dressed twice at \r\n25 and 45 DAS @ one third each time. Experimental plot was kept free from weeds throughout the crop growing period. Atrazine was applied as a pre-emergent herbicide at the rate of 1 kg a.i. ha-1 immediately after sowing. One hand weeding was carried out at 30 DAS. One inter-cultivation cum earthing up operation was carried out immediately after second top dressing of N at 45 DAS. For stem borer management, Carbofuran was applied to the soil at the time of sowing at the rate of 7.5 kg ha-1. For fall armyworm management chlorpyriphos was soil drenched at seedling stage, Emamectin benzoate sprayed at 35 DAS and later poison bait was applied to whorl on 31st July 2018 at the rate of 25 kg ha-1. When the crop was at 65 days old Nomuraea rileyi (bio-agent) was sprayed against fall armyworm. Hexaconazole fungicide was sprayed against turcicum leaf blight and other foliar diseases at 80 DAS. All the growth parameters were recorded from five randomly selected plants at different growth stages of the crop. Agronomic parameters collected are plant height, number of green leaves plant-1, leaf area, leaf area index (LAI), leaf area duration (LAD), SPAD value and stem girth at different growth stages of the crop (40 DAS, 80 DAS and at harvest stage). SPAD chlorophyll meter readings were recorded with the help of SPAD meter at middle lamella of youngest fully opened third leaf from the top at different stages (Rostami et al., 2008). Diameter of the stem was measured at last but one internode from the ground with the help of Vernier caliper and stem girth (circumference) was worked out by using the formula 2πr (r = radius of the stem in cm and π = 3.142) and expressed in centimeters. Grain and stover yield from net plot area was converted into per hectare basis. The experimental data were analysed statistically as per the procedures given by Gomez and Gomez (1984).\r\nRESULTS AND DISCUSSION\r\nEffect of gradient experiment on green fodder yield and soil fertility status. Green fodder yield of exhaustive crop fodder maize was found to be increased from strip I to Strip III (25.53 to 40.38 t ha-1) (Table 1). The increase in yield was due to application of graded levels of fertilizers from 0 to 100 and 200 % for L0, L1 and L2 strips, respectively. The amount of fertilizer nutrients applied was also increased from strip I to strip III. Higher fodder maize yield recorded with strip III (40.38 t ha-1) followed by strip II (34.63 t ha-1) and lower fodder yield was recorded in strip I (25.53 t ha-1). Higher fodder yield was mainly due to application of higher amount of nutrients for strip III (300:200:100 kg N:P2O5:K2O ha-1) as compared to strip II (150:100:50 kg N:P2O5:K2O ha-1). Whereas, lower fodder yield in strip I, which did not receive any fertilizer nutrients, might be the reason for recording lesser amount of green fodder yield. Similarly, the higher soil available major nutrients were recorded in strip III (339:38:406 kg N:P2O5:K2O ha-1) as compared to strip II (180:35:335 kg N:P2O5:K2O ha-1). The higher available nutrients in strip III was due to application of higher amount of nutrients. Further, lower soil available nutrients (NPK) were recorded in strip I (119:26:295 kg N:P2O5:K2O ha-1). Since, no fertilizer was applied to strip I and fodder maize being an exhaustive crop sown with thick population and high growth rate might have removed greater amount of nutrients from the soil reserve for it’s growth and development and rendered the soil with lesser nutrient status. These results are in line with the findings of Basavaraja et al. (2017); Santhi et al. (2011) with fodder maize and Singh et al. (2021) with wheat as an exhaustive crop. \r\nInfluence of soil fertility gradients on crop growth. Among the three soil fertility gradients (FGs), medium fertility gradient (MFG) recorded significantly higher grain and stover yield (82.3 and 101.2 q ha-1) than low fertility gradient (LFG). However, high fertility gradient (HFG) (81.1 and 101.1 q ha-1) was on par with MFG. The increase in grain yield in medium and high FG was to the tune of 5.24 and 3.84 per cent, respectively over low FG. Fertility gradients did not show any significant difference with respect to harvest index (Table 5). Growth parameters namely plant height (43.5, 190 and 195.6 cm), leaf area (19.5, 57.1 and 14 dm2), leaf area index (1.63, 4.76 and 1.16), leaf area duration (128 and 118 between 40 to 80 DAS and 80 DAS to at harvest), SPAD value (40.2 and 48.5 at 40 and 80 DAS) and stem girth (4.49, 7.60 and 7.72 cm) observed at all the growth stages (40, 80 DAS and at harvest, respectively) of maize were significantly higher in medium FG than low FG. High FG was on par with medium FG. But, number of green leaves plant-1 failed to show any significant difference (Table 3 and 4). Whereas, the performance of Rahuri and Coimbatore STCR equations were not so good in high FG even though the soil available status was more. \r\nThis was mainly due to decreased levels of applied fertilizer nitrogen with respect to Coimbatore and Rahuri equations. The lesser performance of these two equations has led to lesser mean value of main plot (HFG) over MFG. The nutrient contribution from the soil is less as compared to applied mineral fertilizers especially the nitrogen. Giri et al. (2015) observed lesser nutrient (N, P2O5 and K2O) contribution from soil to total uptake of maize crop over applied fertilizers during development of STCR equations and similar results were also obtained by Basavaraja et al. (2016) in rice crop, Basavaraja et al. (2017) in finger millet for both the years, Praveena et al. (2013) in cotton and Singh et al. (2021) in direct seeded rice.\r\nPerformance of different STCR equations. Among different STCR equations, application of nutrients as per the STCR equation developed at Jabalpur produced higher grain and stover yield (101.4 and 120.9 q ha-1) than all other equations. The increase in grain yield was to the tune of 54.1 per cent over RDF and 12.91, 10.33 and 4 per cent over Jagtial, Rahuri and Coimbatore STCR equations (Table 5). Significantly higher growth parameters namely plant height (50.1, 204.3 and 212.6 cm), number of green leaves plant-1 (6.51, 12.6 and 3.1), leaf area (23.7, 68.1 and 17.8 dm2), leaf area index (1.97, 5.67 and 1.49), leaf area duration (153 and 143 between 40-80 DAS and 80 DAS-at harvest, respectively), SPAD values (45.0 and 54.2 at 40 and 80 DAS respectively) and stem girth (5.21, 8.44 and 8.60 cm) observed with Jabalpur STCR equation at all growth stages (40, 80 DAS and at harvest, respectively) of maize than other equations and RDF as well as absolute control (Table 3 and 4). The higher grain and stover yield was mainly due to better translocation of photosynthates from source to sink and higher growth parameters and yield attributing characters like cob length, cob girth, grain rows per cob, grains per row, grains per cob, grain weight per cob, test weight and shelling percentage. The above results clearly indicate the importance of nutrient application precisely to achieve specific yield targets. Application of higher levels of inorganic fertilizers have increased the above ground biomass as well as grain yield of maize (Amouzou et al., 2018). These results are in line with those obtained by Basavaraja et al. (2014); Ghodke (2013); Singh et al. (2015) in grain maize and Kanchana et al. (2020) in pearl millet.\r\nInteraction effect of soil fertility gradients and STCR equations developed at different centres. The interaction between two STCR equations at same fertility gradient (FG), nutrients applied as per Coimbatore STCR equation recorded higher grain and stover yield (104.1 and 123 q ha-1) and growth parameters in LFG. But, at medium and high FG, higher grain (105.1 and 101.4 q ha-1, respectively) and stover (124.1 and 121.4 q ha-1 respectively) yield and all the growth parameters were recorded with STCR equation developed at Jabalpur. \r\nThe increase in grain yield in best treatment was to the extent of 84.57, 53.87 and 39.66 per cent over RDF and 282.72, 187.15 and 119.95 per cent over absolute control in low, medium and high FG, respectively (Table 5). The interaction between fertility gradient with same or different STCR equations was also found to be significant. STCR equation developed at Jabalpur (MP) in MFG produced higher grain and stover yield (105.1 and 124.1 q ha-1) than all other treatment combinations. However, the same equation in HFG (101.4 and 121.4 q ha-1) and equation developed at Coimbatore in LFG (104.1 and 123 q ha-1), respectively were on par with Jabalpur STCR equation in MFG. Interaction study failed to show any significant difference with respect to harvest index. The growth parameters were also higher with Jabalpur STCR equation at MFG as depicted in Table 3 and 4. This was due to higher N and P application through Jabalpur STCR equation with optimum doses of K2O fertilizers. Further, the increased trend in all growth parameters and yield was observed with RDF and absolute control from low to high fertility gradient. It clearly indicated the variation in soil fertility gradients. When we apply same doses of fertilizer to different soil FGs, the grain yield increases with increasing soil fertility gradients. These results are in accordance with the findings of Giri et al. (2015); Singh et al. (2015); Singh et al. (2021).\r\n','Roopa K. Muttappanavar, C.P. Chandrashekara and M.P. Potdar (2022). Growth and Yield of Maize (Zea mays L.) as Influenced by Nutrient Management through Soil Test Crop Response (STCR) Approach at varied Soil Fertility Gradients in Vertisols. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 14(2): 1314-1322.'),(5056,'125','Morphological Characterization for Important Breeding Traits in Blackgram [Vigna mungo (L.) Hepper] Genotypes','Pratik Kumar*, Sanjay Kumar Singh, R.S. Shukla, Tasphiya Elahi, Shailendra Sagar Prajapati and Shivangi Rahangdale','229 Morphological Characterization for Important Breeding Traits in Blackgram [Vigna mungo _L._ Hepper] Genotypes Pratik Kumar.pdf','',1,'Characterization on morphological basis are very important for the identification of the important breeding traits in crop plants. An experiment was conducted on 40 blackgram genotypes to determine the important morphological traits using 18 DUS descriptors as per PPV & FRA. The genotypes were planted in three replications by employing randomized block design and the observations were recorded at different plant growth developmental stages. Out of 18, the 10 characters viz. plant growth habit, plant habit, foliage colour, leaf vein colour, petiole colour, intensity of green colour of premature pods, pod pubescence, seed colour, seed lusture and seed shape exhibited more variation as compared to the characters viz. anthocyanin colouration, stem pubescence, leaf pubescence and pod length which exhibited no morphological variation. The frequency distribution of purple vein colour of leaf and greenish seed colour was 2.5% which was lowest among all the traits and hence they carry unique morphological identity which will facilitate their easy identification. These traits might be considered in the urd varietal development programme for the easy visibility of varietal linked traits during maintenance breeding programme.','Morphological, variation, DUS, PPV & FRA','Out of 18 morphological DUS characters, one character (seed colour) exhibited tetramorphic variation, five characters (plant growth habit, stem colour, leaf (terminal) shape, intensity of green colour of premature pods and seed shape) exhibited trimorphic variation, eight characters (time of flowering, plant habit, foliage colour, leaf vein colour, petiole colour, pod pubescence, seed lusture and seed size) exhibited dimorphic variation and four characters (anthocyanin colouration, stem pubescence, leaf pubescence and pod length) exhibited monomorphic variation.\r\nAs per the present investigation, the characters hypocotyl: anthocyanin colouration, stem pubescence, leaf pubescence and pod length showed no variation. Therefore they are of not much use in the exploitation of variability between the genotypes in terms of varietal \r\nidentification when compared to the other traits studied possessing large variation and hence can be utilized in identification of elite lines. This finding might be useful for the researcher educational aspect and to the farmers as a unique identity of the varietal marker.\r\n','INTRODUCTION\r\nBlackgram [Vigna mungo (L.) Hepper] being autogamous in its floral morphology is positioned in family Fabaceae (sub family: Papilionaceae) with chromosome number 2n=2x=22 is one of the dominant Asiatic leguminous crop. It is commonly called as urd, urdbean or mash and its estimated genome size is 574Mbp (Jegadeesan et al., 2021). It is a pulse of tropical and sub-tropical areas and potentially grown in many countries (Girish et al., 2012). In India, its cultivation is taken up in all the cropping seasons i.e. Rabi, Kharif and Zaid. One of the major factor that has given fame to this crop is its adaptability in crop rotation with various crops and its suitability in both rainfed and irrigated conditions (Singh et al., 2020).\r\nRegarding nutritional aspects of blackgram, it shows its richness in protein content i.e. (20-25%). It also contains other proteins such as albumin and globulin along with amino acids like lysine and tryptophan. It also has fat (1.4%), minerals (3.2%), fibre (0.9%) and carbohydrate (59.6%). Apart from this, its seeds are rich in vitamins like thiamine, riboflavin and niacin. \r\nWhen the existing UPOV models for plant variety protection could not meet requirements of India, the Government of India had to enact its own legislation popularly known as “Protection of Plant Varieties and Farmers Right Act (PPV&FRA) in 2001 with an aim of providing protection to the plant varieties on the basis of their distinctiveness, uniformity and stability (DUS) examination. This act apart from novelty carries a uniqueness of maintaining equality between the breeders and the farmers treating them as partners in their attempts of food security. There are several steps that the process of varietal identification includes and they are identification a variety, confirmation of a variety, distinctness of a variety from all other, purity of the variety and characterization of a variety as per their descriptors (Rao et al., 2013). The DUS testing either in field or glasshouse is generally employed for two successive seasons as per the protocols given by PPV&FRA. \r\nMorphological markers are inexpensive in nature, quick to score and have high heritability and therefore they are employed in morphological characterization (Kumawat et al., 2020). Morphological characterization groups the germplasm/genotypes/varieties possessing specific traits that brings out a clear differentiation from one another. Piyada et al. (2010) also emphasized on morphological characterization in order to check variability and differentiate between the crop germplasm. \r\nMATERIALS AND METHODS\r\nThe experimental material comprised 40 diverse blackgram genotypes received from the Department of Plant Breeding and Genetics, College of Agriculture, Jawaharlal Nehru Krishi Vishwavidyalaya, Jabalpur, Madhya Pradesh, India. The field trial was conducted during Summer-Kharif 2021 in randomized block design in 3 replications. The genotypes were planted in four rows of 2 meters each maintaining a row to row distance of 40 cm and plant to plant distance of 10 cm. The morphological observations under study were recorded at the stages as per the guidelines for the conduct of Test for Distinctiveness, Uniformity and Stability on Blackgram [Vigna mungo (L.) Hepper] by PPV&FRA. The anthocyanin colouration of hypocotyl was observed when the cotyledons were unfolded i.e. 5-6 days after sowing. The time of flowering was recorded when the 50% of the plants possessed at least one open flower. The plant growth habit, the plant habit, stem colour, stem pubescence, leaflet (terminal) shape, foliage colour, leaf vein colour, leaf pubescence were observed at 50% flowering stage. At the stage of fully developed green pods, the characters petiole colour, intensity of green colour of premature pods were noted. The pod length was taken up at harvest maturity while the seed colour, seed lusture, seed shape and seed size (weight of 100 seeds) were noted down in mature seeds i.e. after harvesting.\r\nRESULTS AND DISCUSSIONS\r\nCharacterization forms a pre-requisite in varietal identification and the results of the same which includes grouping as well as frequency distribution of blackgram genotypes has been provided in the (Table 1&2) coupled with its discussion in this section.\r\nHypocotyl: Anthocyanin colouration. This trait acts as an important morphological marker and can be effectively employed for varietal identification prior to active seed multiplication. Anthocyanin colouration recorded at seedling stage was present in all the 40 blackgram genotypes under observation indicating no variation for this trait. Similar finding was reported by Singh et al. (2020). \r\nFlower character. Time of flowering was examined when 50% of the plant had at least one open flower bud. It was grouped in three categories viz. early (<40 days), medium (40-50 days) and late (>50 days). 32 genotypes were early in their time of flowering and 8 were medium while of the genotypes were late in their time of flowering (Table 1). The early the genotypes are the more is the tendency in them to mitigate the abiotic stresses during their reproductive stage (Pratap et al., 2013). Jain et al., (2002) reported the usefulness of flower characteristics in characterization of greengram germplasm.\r\nPlant characters. Plant growth habit and plant habit were studied at 50% flowering stage. Among 40 genotypes, 5 erect, 9 semi-erect and 26 spreading were in their growth habit while concerning plant habit, 8 determinate and 32 indeterminate genotypes were reported in the present investigation of characterization significant amount of variation these traits (Table 1). Erect types are prime importance as they receive good amount of sunlight which speeds up the assimilate production in the plant. Singh et al., (2020) also reported significant variation in their findings in blackgram and Singh et al. (2014) in mungbean.\r\nStem characters. This character included two traits viz. stem colour and stem pubescence observed at 50% stage of flowering. The colour of stem out 40 genotypes were purple with green splashes for 31, green with green splashes for 5, purple for 4 genotypes and 0 for none of the genotypes respectively whereas stem pubescence was present in all the genotypes showing no variation (Table 1).\r\nLeaf characters. These characters influence the yielding ability of genotypes because leaves directly participate in photosynthesis. Leaf characters included leaflet (terminal) shape, foliage colour, leaf vein colour and leaf pubescence which were noted at 50% stage of flowering. All the genotypes varied significantly for leaf morphology except for leaf pubescence because it was present in all the genotypes showing no variation (Table 1). The purple leaf vein colour was present in one genotype i.e. IPU 2-43 with a frequency distribution of 2.5% (Table 2).\r\nPetiole colour. Petiole colour was observed at the stage when green pods were full developed. The extent of frequency distribution for petiole colour was (35%) for green and (26%) for green with purple splashes colour respectively (Table 2). (Singh et al. 2020) also showed significant variation for petiole colour in blackgram genotypes.\r\nPod characters. Pod characters are one of the important attributes in blackgram as well as greengram and play a chief role in the identification of genotypes. In this present study, the pod characters viz. intensity of green colour of premature pods, pod pubescence and pod length was observes at fully developed green pod stage. These traits varied in their morphology and were grouped into different categories. Out of 40 genotypes, 23 possessed greenish yellow pods, 15 were with green while 2 had dark green pods respectively (Table 1). In case of pod pubescence, there was no significant variation because pubescence was present in the pods of all the 40 genotypes (Table 1). Similar results were reported by Kaur et al. (2017) in mungbean.\r\nSeed characters. The traits under seed characters included seed colour, seed lusture and seed shape respectively which were observed at seed maturity i.e. after harvesting. All these characters were assigned into different groups (Table 1). The mottled seed colour was present in 28 genotypes while it was black in 8 and greenish in 1 genotype respectively. The seed colour in Uradi was greenish and its frequency distribution was 2.5% (Table 2). The seed shape for 27 genotypes was globose and oval for 11 and drum-shaped for 2 genotypes respectively (Table 1). \r\n\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\nThe seed size was grouped into three categories i.e. 3 genotypes fell under large category, while 37 under medium category and none of the genotypes had small seeds (Table 1). Seed characterization is of prime importance because it enables a breeder to identify and differentiate one genotype from another while undertaking a seed production programme. Venkateswarlu et al. (2001) & Sabatina et al. (2021) discussed the importance of seed characterization in mungbean.\r\n','Pratik Kumar, Sanjay Kumar Singh, R.S. Shukla, Tasphiya Elahi, Shailendra Sagar Prajapati and Shivangi Rahangdale (2022). Morphological Characterization for Important Breeding Traits in Blackgram [Vigna mungo (L.) Hepper] Genotypes. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 14(2): 1323-1330.'),(5057,'125','Prevalence of Canine Ehrlichiosis in the Vindhya Region of Madhya Pradesh (Rewa) ','G. Daniel Risheen*, Kanchan K. Walwadker, Snigdha Shrivastava, Shalendra Singh, Neeraj Shrivastava \r\nand Yogesh A. Chatur\r\n','230 Prevalence of Canine Ehrlichiosis in the Vindhya Region of Madhya Pradesh _Rewa_ G. DANIEL RISHEEN.pdf','',1,'Canine ehrlichiosis also known tropical \"canine pancytopenia and Nairobi bleeding disorder is an earmarked rickettesial disease caused by an intracytoplasmic parasite Ehrlichia canis, seen in circulating monocytes and lymphocytes. It is an important disease in dogs and humans worldwide with higher frequencies reported from tropical and subtropical regions due to presence of the Rhipicephalus sanguineus. Epidemiological studies in canine ehrlichiosis have not been conducted in Rewa district of M.P. hence it was done for the first time. Therefore, the present study was undertaken to study the prevalence of canine ehrlichiosis in and around Rewa (M.P.) in affected dogs. The present study was carried out in the Department of Veterinary Medicine, COVS & AH, Rewa. The epidemiological survey was carried out in and around Rewa and the study revealed an overall prevalence of 19.5% with maximum prevalence in 1-3 years age group (30.76%), breed wise - German Shepherd (35.89%), sex wise - males (53.84%), and then in area wise – rural areas (19.81%). PCR assay proved to be a sensitive and rapid diagnostic tool. Canine ehrlichiosisi characterised by fever, neurological, ocular signs and bleeding through natural orifices in the form of epistaxis, hematemesis and dermal petechiae, lymphadenomegaly, splenomegaly.','Ehrlichia canis, Rhipicephalus sanguineus, Prevalence, Rickettsial disease','From the above results it was concluded that epidemiological survey carried out in and around Rewa revealed an overall prevalence of 19.5% with maximum prevalence in 1-3 years age group (30.76%), German Shepherd (35.89%), males (53.84%), and then in rural area (19.81). PCR assay proved to be a sensitive and rapid diagnostic tool. Prominent clinical features observed were pyrexia (83.33%), lymphadenopathy (77.7%) & epistaxis (33.3%).','INTRODUCTION\r\nCanine ehrlichiosis has been observed as an emerging and earmarked rickettesial diseases, caused by rickettsial microorganism, Ehrlichia canis. It is currently reported throughout the world but at higher frequencies in tropical and subtropical regions due to presence of their vectors (Unver et al., 2003). The disease affects dogs, other domestic and wild animal species as well as humans (Perez et al., 2006). \r\nRhipicephalus sanguineus, the brown dog tick, is the most widespread tick in the world and is a well-recognized vector of Ehrlichia canis and occasionally humans. The prevalence of E. canis is dependent on the distribution of the tick, which occurs mainly in tropical and subtropical regions. Ehrlichia canis is transmitted transtadially and intrastadially by Rhipicephalus sanguineus ticks (Bremer et al., 2005). It is a multisystemic disease with clinical symptoms like fever, leukopenia, thrombocytopenia, depression, anorexia, diarrhoea, depression, lethargy, neurological, ocular signs and bleeding through natural orifices in the form of epistaxis, hematemesis, hematuria and melena have been reported (Kumar and Varshney, 2006) which vary considerably in severity and frequency of occurrence in the initial and terminal phases of infection. The study has been designed with the objective of estimation of Canine ehrlichiosis in and around Rewa (M.P.).\r\nMATERIAL AND METHODS\r\n200 dogs irrespective of age, sex and breed, with a history of anorexia and showing clinical signs of pale mucous membranes and dermal petechiae and with a history of recent tick infestation were screened for presence ehrlichia organism by blood smear examination and PCR assay.\r\nThin blood smears were prepared after puncturing the ear tips with 24-gauge needle, fixed in methanol and stained with Giemsa and Leishman’s stains following standard procedures (Benjamin, 1982), which were observed under microscope for presence of ehrlichia organism and identified on the basis of characteristic morphology (Soulsby 1982). One ml blood samples were also obtained from suspected dogs from cephalic/saphenous vein for isolation of DNA for PCR and those showing band of 412 bpon PCR assay were included in the study.\r\nMolecular detection of Ehrlichia canis by PCR: \r\nGenomic DNA extraction: \r\nThe blood samples collected in vaccutainer containing sodium EDTA were brought at room temperature and genomic DNA was extracted as follows:\r\n1. Four hundred microliters of the sample was taken and centrifuged at 4,000 rpm for 3 min. \r\n2. The cell pellets were resuspended in 1 ml of erythrocyte lysis solution, mixed, and centrifuged as described below:\r\nErythrocyte lysis solution:\r\n155 mM NH4Cl, \r\nM NaHCO3, \r\ndisodium EDTA [pH 7.4]\r\n3. Treatment with erythrocyte lysis solution was repeated until the leukocyte pellets lost all reddish colour.Template DNA was obtained as follows:\r\n(a) Four hundred microliters of lysis solution (2% Triton X-100, 1% sodium dodecyl sulfate, 100 mMNaCl, 10 mMTris-HCl [pH 8.0]) and 10 µl of proteinase K (10 mg/ml) were added to the samples, and the contents were mixed thoroughly and incubated for 30 min at 50ºC.\r\n(b) Four hundred microliters of saturated phenol was added, and the contents were mixed thoroughly and centrifuged at 10,000 rpmfor 10 min.\r\n(c) The aqueous layer was transferred to a fresh eppendorf tube, and an equal volume of chloroform-isoamyl alcohol (24:1) was added; the contents of tubes were mixed thoroughly and centrifuged at 10,000 rpmfor 10 min.\r\n(d) The upper layer was again transferred to a fresh eppendorf tube, and 200 µl of 7.5 M ammonium acetate was added and mixed thoroughly. Two volumes of absolute ethanol were added, the contents were mixed, and the tubes were stored at -20oC.\r\n(e) DNA was recovered by centrifuging the samples at 10,000 rpmfor 10 min. \r\n(f) The pellets were rinsed with 1 ml of 70% ethanol, dried, and resuspended in 30 µl of TE buffer [10 mM Tris-HCl (pH 8.0), 1 mM disodium EDTA] and stored at -20oC until they were processed. \r\nPolymerase Chain Reaction: The PCR reaction was performed in 25 µl reaction volume containing 12.5 µl of 2X GoTaq® Green master mix (Promega, USA) (reaction buffer (pH 8.5), 400µM dATP, 400µM dGTP, 400µM dCTP, 400µM dTTP and 3mM MgCl2) (Table 1), 1 µl of each forward and reverse primer (10 p-mole of each) (Integrated DNA Technology), 5 ul of DNA template and 5.5 µl of nucleic acid free distilled water to maintain the volume. The reaction was performed in thermal cycler (Applied Biosystem VeritiTM, ThermoFisher) with the lid temperature of 105oC with cycling condition as follows: \r\n• Initial denaturation at 96oC followed by 35 cycles of denaturation at 96oC for 45 sec, annealing at 59oC for 45 sec, extension at 72oC for 45 sec and final extension at 72oC for 7 min. \r\n• The amplified PCR products of 412 bp were subjected to electrophoresis in 1.5 % agarose gel (Bengaluru,Genei, India) with ethidium bromide at final concentration of 0.5µg/L and visualised in Gel documentation system (E-Gel Imager, Life Technologies, Invitrogen, USA) along with molecular marker (100 bp DNA ladder, Thermofisher, USA).\r\nRESULTS AND DISCUSSION\r\nOverall Prevalence: The overall prevalence of canine ehrlichiosis is shown in the Table 2. Out of the 200 dogs surveyed, 39 dogs were found positive showing an overall prevalence of canine ehrlichiosis as 19.5%.\r\nOur findings in the present study are in agreement with those of Katyal (2000); Dagnone et al. (2003) who reported a prevalence of 17.58% and 21.70% respectively. However, Bhadesiya and Raval (2015) reported the overall incidence of ehrlichiosis as 62.07% and Guedes (2015) reported an overall prevalence of 46.9%.\r\nPrevalence on the basis of blood smear examination and PCR Assay: Thin blood smears stained with Geimsa’s stain and PCR assay were used for the diagnosis of the canine ehrlichiosis. The results are shown in Table 3.\r\nConventional microscopic parasitological diagnosis of the stained blood smear is the most commonly used techniques for the canine monocytic ehrlichiosis. But this is a challenging task, as sometimes the organism may not be detectedon peripheral thin blood smear, particularly seen in case of low parasitaemia or in chronic or inapparent infections. PCR based assays are utilized for the early diagnosis of the disease, especially in epidemiological surveys, owing to their higher sensitivity and specificity. \r\nIn the present study, out of 200 dogs screened for ehrlichiosis, 14 dogs were found positive by blood smear method (7%) and 25 found positive by PCR method (12.5%). Higher prevalence of canine ehrlichiosis as detected by PCR based assays as compared to microscopy indicates the higher sensitivity levels of PCR. These findings are in agreement with the observations of Mittal et al. (2007); Parmar et al. (2013)\r\nArea-wise - Prevalence of E. canis. In the present study, a higher prevalence was recorded in rural area (19.81%) in comparison with urban area (19.14%) (Table 4). Higher prevalence in rural area may be due to unhygienic conditions and more tick population in these areas.\r\nAge-wise prevalence of E. canis. In the present study, maximum prevalence of canine ehrlichiosis was recorded in 1-3 years age group (30.76%), followed by less than 1 year age group (23.07%), 3-6 year age group (20.51%), 6-9 year age group (17.94%) and least prevalence was found in dogs more than 9 year age group (7.69%) (Table 5).\r\nOur findings corroborate with those of Karthika et al. (2014); Choudhary et al. (2012), who reported highest prevalence in dogs in the age group of 1-3 years. However, Rahman et al. (2010) reported no significant difference between age groups. Higher prevalence of canine ehrlichiosis was found in the age group of 1-3 years (30.76%) and lowest in dogs of more than 9 years. The reason for this is that the organism parasitizes monocytes. High bone marrow activity with active precursor cells i.e., monoblasts in young age gives an opportunity for the organism to parasitize more cells and multiply rapidly. The immune system in young animals is also in the developmental stage. However, many authors reported E. canis in different age group of dogs. Therefore, it can be opined that the age is not the criteria for Ehrlichia infection and it depends largely on the transmitting vector and the immune status of the host.\r\nBreed-wise prevalence of E. canis. The present study reported maximum prevalence in German Shepherd dogs (35.89%) followed by 30.76% in Non-Descript, 17.39% in Labrador, 7.69% in Pomeranian, 5.64% in Saint Bernard, and 2.56 % in Rottweiler (Table 6).\r\nThese findings are in agreement with the earlier observations of Guedes et al. (2015); Singh et al. (2014), who reported higher prevalence in GSD. However, Tresamol et al. (1998) reported higher occurrence of canine ehrlichiosis in Doberman pinschers while and Costa et al., (2007) found it to be more prevalent in non-descript dogs. Higher susceptibility of GSD to the disease may be due to unnoticed tick infestation as the hair coat is comparatively thick with long hair. \r\nSex-wise prevalence of E. canis. In the present study, higher prevalence was recorded in males (53.84%) as compared to females (48.71%) (Table 7).\r\nSimilar findings were reported by Choudhary et al. (2012) and Kitaa et al. (2014). However, Tanikawa et al. (2013) reported no considerable differences between male and female dogs for E. canis infection. No sex wise predilection for the disease seems to be present as, it depends purely on the preference of the owners for keeping pets and generally males are more preferred over females as pets.\r\nFrequency of predominant signs of Canine Ehrlichiosis. Among the 18 positive dogs with canine ehrlichiosis, the characteristic clinical features observed were pyrexia (83.33%), lymphadenopathy (77.7%). anorexia (66.6%), depression and lethargy (66.6%), presence of ticks (61.1%), pale mucous membrane (55.5%), congested mucous membrane 26 (44.4%), melena (11.1%), epistaxis (33.3%), petechial hemorrhages (44.4%) (Table 8).\r\nThese findings are in agreement with the earlier reports of Choudhary et al. (2015) and Sosa-Gutierrez et al. (2013). \r\nThe clinical manifestations of ehrlichiosis in dogs varies between and within different geographical locations due to many factors like strain variations, breed of dogs infected, immunological status of the dog, concurrent infection with other tick borne infections. \r\nElevated temperature, tachycardia and polypnoea were also reported by Choudhary et al. (2015). The clinical signs observed may be the result of inflammation which causes marked release of cytokine resulting in pyrexia and associated symptoms. \r\nThe palpable lymph nodes were found to be enlarged in most of the dogs under study. Similar findings were recorded by Moreira et al. (2003). Intracytoplasmic leucocytic invasion by the rickettsia and due to generalized infection, lymphadenitis is observed. Replication of the organisms in the reticulo-endothelial system along with proliferation of medullary and para-cortical lymphocytes and aggregation of reactive histiocytes in the lymph nodes results in generalized lymphadenopathy. Pallor mucosae (55.5%) as observed in the present investigation in canine monocytic ehrlichiosis has been attributed to the loss of blood due to thrombocytopaenia, suppression of bone marrow and probably due to immune mediated red cell destruction. Whereas, bleeding tendencies (epistaxis, malena, haematemesis, petechial haemorrhages on oral gums and ventral abdomen) is mainly due to thrombocytopaenia and damage to vascular endothelium due to deposition of immune complexes on the vascular wall. Severe antibody mediated cytotoxic destruction of erythrocytes, release of pro-inflammatory cytokines in response to canine ehrlichiosis inhibiting the secretion of erythropoietin results in decreased RBC production together with immune mediated RBC destruction which are responsible for low RBC count and pale mucous membrane. \r\n','G. Daniel Risheen, Kanchan K. Walwadker, Snigdha Shrivastava, Shalendra Singh, Neeraj Shrivastava and Yogesh A. Chatur (2022). Prevalence of Canine Ehrlichiosis in the Vindhya Region of Madhya Pradesh (Rewa). Biological Forum – An International Journal, 14(2): 1331-1337.'),(5058,'125','Variability Analysis for Yield and Yield Attributing Traits in Direct Sown Upland Rice','Sangita Kumari, Satish Kumar, Aditya Pratap Singh* and R.P. Singh','231 Variability Analysis for Yield and Yield Attributing Traits in Direct Sown Upland Rice Aditya Pratap Singh.pdf','',1,'A study was conducted to measure the genetic variability, heritability, and association between yield and yield component traits of upland rice. In Kharif season, 38 different upland genotypes were tested in the field. An experiment in rainfed conditions was designed with complete block randomization and three replications. In order to investigate the effect of years on the traits studied, 14 yield related traits across 38 genotypes of rice were examined by analysis of variance (ANOVA). Most of the traits showed significant differences between years, except for number of effective tillers, kernel length-breadth ratio, and kernel length and kernel breadth. In most traits, the year x variety interaction was significant except for the kernel length-breadth ratio and kernel length. In kharif among all the genotype, HUR-3022 followed by PHY-220, PHY-223 and PHY-227 showed highest per se performance for most of the yield attributing traits. HUR-3022, PHR- 220 and PHY- 219 are the genotypes which showed highest per se performance for most the traits studied. During kharif, phenotypic co-efficient of variation ranged from 5.915 (D50F) to 28.527 (GW/Pt) and in next year it ranged from 6.948 (D50F) to 37.244 (GW/Pt). In first year broad sense heritability estimate was highest for days to panicle initiation (95.60%), days to 50% flowering (93.8%) and plants height (91.6%), whereas, lowest heritability estimate was recorded for number of effective tillers (39.9) followed by number of tiller (46.1%), kernel breadth (48.5%) kernel length (54.6%) and kernel length - breadth ratio (57.9%). The number of days to panicle initiation was positively correlated with number of days to first flowering and days to 50% flowering in both seasons. Based on this study, total number of tillers, number of effective tillers, grain per panicle, and seed index generally correlated positively and significantly with grain weight per plant.','Rice, genetic variability, heritability and yield','According to the study, the traits like total number of tillers, grain weight per plant, grain weight/panicle exhibited the highest PCV, GCV, heritability, and genetic advance values. The selection of these traits is highly recommended for rice improvement. HUR-3022 recorded highest mean performance for grain yield per plant followed by PHY-223 and PHY-227.','INTRODUCTION \r\nIn terms of annual production, rice (Oryza sativa L.) is the second most important staple crop worldwide, only behind wheat. Rice is a member of the genus Oryza of the family Poaceae. Twenty-two wild species as well as two cultivated species are found in the genus Oryza, namely Oryza sativa and Oryza glaberrima. There are 24 chromosomes in the AA genome of Oryza sativa, which is a diploid species. In India, rice crops account for approximately 22 percent of the total cropped area under cereals, and about 31 percent of the total area under food grains (Singhal, 2003). Rice production in Asia is more than any other cereal, and Asia is considered the \"Rice Bowl\" of the world (Lu and Chang 1980). The area under rice cultivation in India is 42.56 million hectares (ha), which is equivalent to 95.33 million tonnes of rice produced at a productivity of 2240 kilograms per hectare. Rice is cultivated throughout India. Breeding programs\' primary objective is to develop rice cultivars with the maximum yield potential (Jing and Jianchang 2011). It is crucial to determine how different traits contribute to yield. The knowledge of genetic variability of yield contributing characters, their inter relationships, and how those relationships influence yield is essential for an effective breeding program. Heritability has been used in selection as it indicates how transmissible a trait is in future generations (Sabesan et al., 2009). Breeding programs that aim to develop high yielding cultivars must consider genetic variation for traits under selection and high heritability and genetic advancement (Ulloa, 2006). Genetic progress is not reflected by estimating heritability alone (Chaghakaboodi et al., 2012). In addition, genetic advance is of considerable significance since it indicates the degree of improvement expected from one selection (Hamdi et al., 2003). An integrated function of many component traits, grain yield is a complex characteristic. As a result, selecting for yield may not be as satisfactory as considering other traits that contribute to yield (Akinwale et al., 2011). There has been very little work done on rice grown on upland areas, which led to this study being undertaken to examine the variability of the genetic makeup of upland rice and the traits that affect yield. Therefore, the objective of this study was to estimate genetic variability, heritability, and genetic advance and to determine the correlations among yield characteristics and yield attributing characteristics through use of phenotypic correlation coefficients. The results of this study could serve as a basis for developing desirable rice genotypes for upland environments in future breeding programs.\r\nMATERIALS AND METHODS\r\nThirty-eight diverse genotypes viz. PHY-201, PHY-202, PHY-203, PHY-204, PHY-205, PHY-206, PHY-207, PHY-208, PHY-209, PHY-210, PHY-211, PHY-212, PHY-213, PHY-214, PHY-215, PHY-216, PHY-217, PHY-218, PHY-219, PHY-220, PHY-221, PHY-222, PHY-223, PHY-224, PHY-225, PHY-226, PHY-227, PHY-228, HUR-3022, PHY-230, PHY-231, PHY-232, PHY-233, PHY-234, PHY-235, PHY-236, PHY-237, PHY-238, PHY-239, PHY-240 were collected from All India Coordinated Research Project on Rice and were used as experimental materials. At the Agricultural Research Farm of Institute of Agricultural Sciences, Banaras Hindu University, Varanasi, Uttar Pradesh, the experiment was conducted in randomized block design (RBD) with three replications. Varanasi is located at 25.18° N latitude and 83.03° East longitude, at an altitude of 123.3 meters above mean sea level. During the experiment, the soil was classified as an Indo-Gangetic plain type soil and was characterized as fertile, alluvial loam. A total of 1100 mm of rain falls annually at this place, 88 percent of which is received between July and September. Twenty one days old seedlings were transplanted into small plots 20 cm apart between rows and 15 cm apart within rows. A healthy crop was raised by following standard cultural practices. Per hectare, 120 kg of N, 80 kg of P2O5, and 80 kg of K2O were applied as fertilizers. IRRI standard evaluation system was followed for the collection of morphological data at appropriate growth stages. Other intercultural operations were carried out whenever required. \r\nData Collection: Observations were recorded on ten randomly selected plants from each entry and replication on days to 50% flowering (D50F), days to maturity, plant height (cm), days to panicle initiation (DPI), Days to first flowering (DFF), panicle length (cm) (PL), total number of tillers (TNT), number of effective tillers plant–1 (NET), number of filled grains panicle–1 (Gr/P), Seed index (SI), Kernel length (KL), Kernel breadth (KB), Kernel L:B ratio, Grain weight per plant (GW/Pt).\r\nStatistical Analysis: Based on randomly selected plants from all three replications, the experimental data were calculated by their mean value. According to the procedures outlined by Johnson et al. (1955); Burton, (1952); Allard (1975), the genotypic and phenotypic coefficients of variation were determined statistically. Based on Johanson et al. (1955); Hanson (1961), heritability and genetic advance were estimated. Correlation coefficient was calculated according to Al-Jibour et al. (1958).\r\nRESULTS AND DISCUSSION \r\nAccording to the analysis of variance, there were significant differences between genotypes for all the thirty eight genotypes of characters investigated. As a result, there are many potential genotypes from the current germplasm set that can be selected for yield improvement.\r\nPer se performance: PHY-223 and PHY-227 were the genotypes that achieved the greatest mean grain yield per plant of all genotypes analyzed. These genotypes may be utilized in a hybridization programme to achieve higher grain yield. It is possible to develop an early maturity or short duration rice genotype using PHY-227 as a donor parent in breeding programs by using this as an early-flowering and mature genotype. The PHY-227 genotype showed the greatest mean performance for panicle length, followed by the PHY-226 genotype. The shortest and the tallest were PHY-228 and PHY-225, respectively. Grain yields per panicle were highest for genotype 238. Results similar to these are reported by Bekele et al. (2013).\r\nGenetic Variability: All the traits studied in this study had a PCV that was higher than their respective GCVs (Table 2). The PCV and GCV values differ very little for almost all the traits considered, indicating that environment is less of a factor affecting expression. Estimates of genetic parameters suggest that phenotypic differences may be taken into account as genotypic differences when selecting genotypes. The results were similar to those seen by Lingaiah et al. (2015); Mishu et al. (2016). PCV and GCV were highest for grain weight per plant, confirming that additive gene action is involved in determining these traits. Lal and Chauhan (2011); Singh et al. (2011); Singh et al. (2013) and Lingaiah (2015) also reported similar findings. A low PCV and GCV estimate showed that selection for traits such as the days to 50% flowering, the days to first flowering, the days to panicle initiation and kernel length and kernel breadth would be ineffective. It can be used to compare variability and sometimes provide clues on the validity of a trait for selection.\r\nFor grain weight per plant, the PCV ranged from 5.915 % days to 50% panicle initiation, whereas for panicle length, the GCV ranged from 5.452 % to 24.252 %. The PCV and GCV values over 20% are considered high according to Sivasubramanian and Menon (1973), while values less than 10% are considered to be low and values between 10 and 20% are considered moderate. According to the delineated values, PCVs were high for panicles per plant, grain weight per plant, medium for chlorophyll, plant height, total number of tillers, effective number of tillers, kernel length to breadth ratio, and low for days to first panicle, days to first flowering, days to 50% flowering, panicle length, kernel length, kernel breadth. The highest genotype and phenotypic co-efficient of variation was obtained for grain weight per plant, followed by grain per panicle, number of effective tillers, and chlorophyll content. The lowest genotype and phenotypic co-efficient of variation was obtained for grains per panicle, and the highest were obtained for the number of effective tillers in both years. The highest number of grains per panicle as well as the highest number of tillers per plant was reported by Singh et al. (2006); Akhtar el al. (2011). According to Adhikari et al. (2018), grain yield per plant, number of panicles per plant, and number of fillers per plant were all associated with high genotypic and phenotypic coefficients of variation. \r\nThe variance analysis found that all characters had significant differences between genotypes. Most of the traits under study displayed a wide range of variability. Estimates of phenotypic (δ2p) and genotypic variances (δ2g), phenotypic coefficient variance (PCV) and genotypic coefficient of variance (GCV), heritability (%), and genetic advance (GA) are shown in Table 2. With chlorophyll contents of 1044.61 and 258,772, respectively, there was a high degree of phenotypic and genotypic variance. High phenotypic and genotypic variances were equally observed for grains per panicle (693.356 and 103.223), plant height (271.062 and 112.492 ), grain weight per plant (24.796 and 17.455), days to first flowering 19.925 and 66.302), days to first panicle initiation (17.871 and 58.197), days to 50% flowering (17.787 and 71.302), panicle length (2.930 and 24.815), total number of tillers (0.828 and 8,502), seed index (0.127 and 2.610), kernel length (0.285 and 6.489) kernel breadth (0.038 and 2.093), kernel length- breadth ratio (0.130 and 3.122) grain weight per plant (37.244 and 24.252), respectively. Across all characters, phenotypic variance was higher than genotypic variance. \r\nCorrelation: In order for grain yield to be expressed, a variety of factors need to be taken into account. Grain yield is controlled by minor genes. Selection for yield in and of itself isn\'t always effective. The inclusion of yield-attributing traits which show positive and significant associations with grain yield is therefore highly desirable for improving grain yield. An analysis of correlations revealed a significant positive correlation between days to panicle initiation and days to 50% blooming over both years. The days from panicle initiation to plant height correlated negatively and significantly. On the other hand, plant height did not show a significant correlation with days to first flower. Chrorophyll content and seed index correlated positively with days to first flowering. Kernel length and seed index showed a strong positive relationship over time. As well, kernel length and kernel length-breadth ratios were positively correlated over years, whereas kernel breadth was negatively correlated with kernel length-breadth ratio. Similarly, Satyanarayana et al. (2005); Ramakrishnan et al. (2006) reported similar findings. Thus, it is necessary to understand the nature of the relationship between yield and its components during crop improvement programmes so that the character of the crop can be simultaneously enhanced.\r\n \r\nHeritability. Heritability estimates were high for days to panicle initiation (95.6%), days to flowering at 50% (94.6%), and plant height (91.6%). On the other hand, the lowest heritability estimate was recorded for number of effective tillers (39.9), total number of tillers (46.1%), kernel breadth (48.5%), kernel length (54.6%), and kernel length-breadth ratio (57.9%). Similar studies have also been published by Singh et al. (2007), Fiyaz et al. (2011), Singh et al. (2013), and Islam et al. (2016). These results indicate that these traits can be effectively selected compared to others. Gene action can occur both additively and non-additivley, based on heritability estimates. High heritability is not necessarily indicative of high genetic gain. It is more efficient to use both heritability and genetic advance as selection parameters rather than the heritability alone, since both indicate that the heritability is most likely the result of additive gene effects. ','Sangita Kumari, Satish Kumar, Aditya Pratap Singh and R.P. Singh (2022). Variability Analysis for Yield and Yield Attributing Traits in Direct Sown Upland Rice. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 14(2): 1338-1343.'),(5059,'125','Banded Leaf and Sheath Blight in Maize: Inheritance of Resistance, Associated QTLs and Management','Uttam Chandel and Smarika Thakur*','232 Banded Leaf and Sheath Blight in Maize Inheritance of Resistance, Associated QTLs and Management Smarika Thakur.pdf','',1,'The Banded Leaf and Sheath Blight caused by basidiomycetes fungus Rhizoctonia solani which was previously considered as a minor disease in maize, has now quickly gained the status of an economically significant disease in maize growing areas of the world. This disease is threatening the production of maize worldwide, particularly in South Asia, South East Asian countries and especially in China with a potential of causing up to a 100 per cent crop loss. The management of this disease is complex and various studies have been conducted to decipher the inheritance of resistance to BLSB. The analysis of combining ability indicates that the resistance to BLSB is both specifically and generally transferable among the crosses. Recently, the F-box gene ZmFBL41 has been identified as conferring quantitative resistance to BLSB. Several QTLs associated with banded leaf and sheath blight resistance have been identified which can be used to enhance BLSB resistance. This review briefly spans the etiology, disease symptoms, economic significance, inheritance of resistance, associated QTLs and management of this disease.','Maize, BLSB, QTLs, Management, Inheritance of Resistance, Rhizoctonia solani','Maize is the third most important cereal crop after wheat and rice. Maize has also established itself as a staple in many regions of the world like the Sub- Saharan Africa. BLSB is a destructive disease of maize crop which not only adversely affects its yield but also the quality of the produce. This disease has severely affected many maize growing areas of the world which makes it imperative that this disease be managed effectively. BLSB can be managed through cultural practices, chemicals, biological control, by the use of botanicals, by developing genetic resistance or by an integrated approach. This disease which was once considered an insignificant disease in maize is now escalating in magnitude and disease severity and hence the research on managing the disease is also gaining momentum among the researchers. Various studies have been conducted to augment the understanding of inheritance of resistance to BLSB, various QTLs associated with BLSB have been discovered by the scientists including the F-box gene ZmFBL41 conferring quantitative resistance to BLSB. The plethora of vital information thus generated through mapping resistance can be further utilised in marker assisted breeding programmes for development of resistant germplasm.','INTRODUCTION\r\nA. Banded Leaf and Sheath Blight: Its inheritance of Resistance, Associated QTLs and Management \r\nBanded leaf and sheath blight incited by the pathogen Rhizoctonia solani f.sp. sasakii Exner. has become an economically significant disease of maize in several countries of Asia with a potential of causing upto a 100 per cent crop loss. This disease, in the crop of maize, was for the first time recorded from Sri Lanka (Bertus, 1927), under the name of sclerotial disease. Later, it was also recorded, under the name of ‘banded sheath rot’ from Malaysia, from Philippines as ‘Banded sclerotial rot’ and in Japan as ‘summer sheath blight’ (Wiltshire, 1956). The recent years have seen the disease outbreaks in many more countries with the disease having assumed epidemic dimensions. BLSB has posed a serious limitation to maize production worldwide especially in areas like the tropics and the subtropics, where hot and humid environments are prevalent. The characteristic symptoms of the disease manifest as concentric bands and rings which can be observed on the leaves and sheath of the corn plant, these bands and rings are discoloured and can be tan, brown or grey in colour. This disease affects the leaves, sheaths and stalks of the maize plant and may spread to the ear which ultimately leads to rotting of the ear. This disease may result in the breakage of the stalk, ear rot and in worst cases may result in the premature death of the plant. The disease results not only in the reduction of the yield but also lowers the quality of the produce.\r\nETIOLOGY AND DISEASE SYMPTOMS\r\nThe pathogen Rhizoctonia solani causing BLSB, has an especially wide range of hosts. This pathogen is known to infect plants of 32 diverse families and its host range spans over 188 genera (Roy, 1993). Some of its hosts besides maize are sorghum, finger millet, rice, pearl millet, spinach, napier grass, sugarcane, black gram, green gram, lettuce, soybean, pigeon pea, turmeric and brassica, to name a few (Kannaiyan and Prasad 1979). Grasses like Heteropogon contortus, Panicum maximum, H. melanocarpus, Bothriochloa ischaemum and Brachiaria racemosa have been reported as the recently introduced hosts of this pathogen (Sagar and Bhusal 2019). The plant can be infected by this pathogen at all stages of growth, from the seedling stage to the maturity stage of the crop. Since the disease is soil borne, the initial infection usually appears on the lowest leaf sheath or on the leaves that are in close contact with the soil. The infection may then gradually travel or spread to the ear causing it to rot. The three types of ear rots that can be observed have been delineated by Kumari (2012) as: (i) if the infection occurs before the emergence of the ear, the ear will not develop, if it develops it will remain rudimentary (ii) if the infection has occurred after the emergence of the ear, it will be observed that the stalk fiber at the tip darkens, it will cake up and turn into a hardened lump which will eventually lead to poor grain fill (iii) if the infection occurs after the formation of the grains, it will be seen that the kernels have become chaffy, light in weight and lustreless. The presence of cottony growth of light brown mycelium which is on the ear of the plant accompanied by the presence of tiny and circular black sclerotia, premature dying of the ears and the caking up of the ear sheaths are the characteristic symptoms of ear rot (Rajput and Harlapur 2014). The infection will travel from the lower sheath to the upper leaf sheaths under humid conditions, leading to the rotting of leaf sheath and drying of the whole leaf. In severe cases majority of the plant leaves get blighted and on the lesions the formation of sclerotia is noticeable. The soil factors, environmental conditions and the variety involved, affect the colour and size of the sclerotia (Ou, 1972).\r\nECONOMIC SIGNIFICANCE AND WIDESPREAD NATURE OF THE DISEASE\r\nThe disease has been reported from many parts of the globe, from countries like USA, Germany, England, Nigeria, Venezuela, Sierra Leone and Ivory Coast. In the Asian continent BLSB has been recognised as a severe constraint to the cultivation of maize in China, South Asia and Southeast Asia viz. Japan, Indonesia, Nepal, Cambodia, Laos, Bangladesh, Korea, Myanmar, Thailand, Pakistan, Vietnam, Philippines, Taiwan, Malaysia and Sri Lanka (Singh and Shahi 2012). In certain countries like China, the losses in yield, due to this disease have been recorded close to a 100 per cent. Butchaiah (1977) has reported a high and a positive correlation between disease index and premature death of the plants which can cause a severe decline of upto 97 per cent in grain yield. When the ear rot phase of the disease is predominating, a 100 per cent gain loss maybe experienced (Rajput and Harlapur 2014). Akhtar et al., (2009) have estimated the disease severity to range from 30.30 to 80.46 per cent. \r\nFUNCTIONAL GENOMICS OF DISEASE RESISTANCE TO BLSB IN MAIZE\r\n(i) Inheritance of resistance to BLSB in maize\r\nThe genetics of inheritance of BLSB is not very clear. Researchers have reported its inheritance to be digenic as well as oligogenic (Singh and Shahi 2012). Kumar and Singh discerned the pattern of F2 segregation for BLSB reaction and reported 15: 1 ratio in crosses with the resistant parent CM104 and a ratio of 13:3 in crosses with resistant parent CML1. The study of BLSB reaction in F2 and the backcrosses involving CM104 and susceptible lines suggested the control of resistance in CM104 by duplicate dominant genes whereas the crosses of CML1 exhibited dominance and recessive reaction. In an association mapping study 26 loci distributed across chromosomes 2, 3, 4, 5, 7, 8, 9 and 10 were reported for resistance to BLSB by Lin et al. (2013). Among which umc1202, umc1505 and umc2190 were found to be significantly related to BLSB resistance. The analysis of combining ability indicated that the resistance to BLSB is both specifically and generally transferable among the crosses (Garg et al., 2008). Of late, the F-box gene ZmFBL41 has been identified for conferring quantitative resistance to BLSB. The transposon induction line zmfbl41 taken from maize Uniform Mu resource was utilised to assess the activity of ZmFBL41. Further when infected with Rhizoctonia solani, the zmfbl41 line exhibited relatively weaker symptoms than recorded on W22, the wild type (Li et al., 2019).\r\n(ii) QTLs associated with resistance to BLSB\r\nThe morphological traits and QTLs which have been found to be associated with BLSB resistance can be further exploited to augment resistance against this disease. For enhancing BLSB resistance through QTL pyramiding, the exploitation of QTLs governing morphological traits like days to anthesis, plant height, days to silking, flag leaf architecture etc., along with the QTLs influencing BLSB resistance could be a good choice (Adhikari et al., 2021). Eleven QTLs for resistance to BLSB through composite interval mapping, located on chromosomes 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6 and 10 and further 4 more QTLs located on chromosome 2, 6 and 10 across two locations, have been identified for resistance to BLSB (Zhao et al., 2006). Four QTLs for resistance to BLSB have also been recorded on chromosome 6, 7 and 10 respectively by Chen et al., (2009). They further recorded two QTLs for disease incidence on chromosome 7 and 10 which were found to be linked with markers bnlg1161 and phi059. One major QTL on chromosome 5 and 4 minor QTLs on chromosomes 1, 3, 4, and 8 respectively (under first sowing) and another 4 minor QTLs on 4 chromosomes 1, 3, 5 and 8 (under second sowing) have been identified for resistance against BLSB (Adhikari et al., 2021). Eight QTLs influencing resistance to BLSB in corn across three location (Delhi, Udaipur and Pantnagar) in India have been recognized; 3 QTLs one on chromosome 4 (bnlg252- bnlg1621), the second on chromosome 8 (umc2146- umc1172) and the third on chromosome 9 (phi108411- umc2346) (location, Delhi), 4 QTLs one on chromosome 2 (umc2363- umc1622), one on chromosome 3 (umc2101- umc1892), one on chromosome 6 (umc1127) and one on chromosome 10 (bnlg1518- bnlg1526 (location, Udaipur) and a single QTL on chromosome 7 (umc1066- bnlg1792) (location, Pantanagar) have been identified (Garg et al., 2008). The information procured by mapping resistance can be further utilised in marker assisted selection (MAS) program to develop BLSB resistant germplasm (Zhao et al., 2006).\r\nDISEASE MANAGEMENT\r\nCurrently, the researchers don’t have much information regarding the sustainable management of the disease. At present the disease is generally being treated by the use of chemicals. But the use of chemicals is not an eco- friendly approach and its use may not always be desirable. Since these pathogens are now developing resistance against these chemical fungicides, bio-control agents and botanicals are gaining significance in the management of plant diseases (Rajput et al., 2016). Other than chemical application, cultural, biological, botanical methods or an integrated approach can also be used to manage BLSB. Besides, researchers have identified a number of QTLs which will immensely expedite the breeding of cultivars resistant to BLSB (Singh and Shahi 2012). Management of disease through genetic resistance is rapidly become more and more desirable as it is an environmental friendly way to manage the disease.\r\na. Cultural management\r\nThe cultural practice of selecting a well drained field and raising the crop on raised beds is known to control the pathogen R. solani. On Rhizoctonia infested soil, the composting of hardwood has been found to be effective in reducing the disease severity. This practice is apparently known to promote the growth of the fungi Trichoderma and other micro- organisms antagonistic to Rhizoctonia solani (Hoitink, 1980). The disease can also be controlled by stripping of the lowermost two to three leaf sheaths (Sharma and Hembram 1990). The stripping of leaves prevents the upward movement of the pathogen by limiting its contact with the succeeding leaf sheath. Sharma and Saxena (2002) observed that the cultural practice of removing the lower leaves were not alone helpful in controlling BLSB.\r\nb. Biological management\r\nCertain fungi viz. Gliocladium virens, T. viride, Trichoderma harzianum, Neurospora crassa, Penicillium spp. and Aspergillus spp. have been known to hamper the growth of mycelia, as well as sclerotia formation in R.solani (Mew and Rosales, 1984). An eighty per cent inhibition in the mycelia growth after an incubation period of 72 hours and an inhibition of 35.5 per cent in the sclerotial formation after the incubation of this pathogen with T. harzianum for a period 10 days was observed (Biswas et al., 2011). The antagonistic activity of the fungus Trichoderma, maybe attributed to its fast growing ability and its capability to produce toxins (Sharma et al., 2002). The bacterium Pseudomanas fluorescence has also been reported to show antimicrobial activity against a number of fungi (Khan and Zaidi, 2002) including R. solani. Treatment of seed, soil treatment and foliar application of P. fluorescence resulted in the reduction of disease incidence of BLSB (Meena et al., 2003).\r\nc. Chemical management\r\nFungicides like TPTH, carboxin and thiobendazole can give effective control of the disease (Baruah, 1979). Chemicals like carbendazim, validamycin A, dichlorine, aureofungin, benodamil, thiobendazole and thiophanate methyl were also reported to be effective against the isolates of R. solani by Ahuja and Payak (1988). Thiophanate and Rhizolex were found effective for controlling the pathogen R. solani (Sharma and Rai 1999). Formulations of anti- biotic validamycin has shown to be effective against BLSB (Jiang et al., 1991) but taking into consideration its high cost, its usage in disease control cannot be justified (Sharma et al., 2002). In vitro investigation of azoxystrobin concluded that it can completely inhibit the mycelia growth of Rhizoctonia at 1, 2 and 4 ppm (Sundravadana et al., 2007). Sinha (1992) reported the most efficient control of the sclerotial state of the disease was with Bavistin 50 WP (fentin) with 87 per cent disease control followed by Brestan 60 WP (fentin) with 77 percent, Calixin 75 EC (tridemorph) with 74 per cent, Difolatan 80 WP (Captafol) with 72 per cent and Benlate 50 WP (benomyl) with 32 per cent disease control. \r\nd. Botanical management \r\nThe botanical extracts of Ocimum sanctum, Mentha arvensis and Eucalyptus spp. have exhibited fungistatic activity against R. solani (Ansari, 1995). The plant extracts of Croton tiglium and seed powder of Impatiens balsmina can also be used as an effective therapeutic control against the leaf blight caused by R. solani (Tangonan and Cuambat, 2002). The bulb extract of garlic at 5 per cent concentration (w/v) has also been observed to inhibit the growth of the fungus (Meena et al., 2003). The use of plant products in disease management is an environment friendly approach which is becoming popular since it has a plethora of advantages to offer over chemicals. These botanical extracts are biodegradable and degrade quickly without having any residual effects on the plants, these also get readily absorbed by the plants besides being cost effective (Rajput et al., 2016).\r\n','Uttam Chandel and Smarika Thakur (2022). Banded Leaf and Sheath Blight in Maize: Inheritance of Resistance, Associated QTLs and Management. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 14(2): 1344-1347.'),(5060,'125','Significance of different Sources of Fertilizers Application on Yield and Physiochemical properties of Kinnow Mandarin','Monika Yadav*, G.S. Rana1, M.L. Jat and Raveena','233 Significance of different Sources of Fertilizers Application on Yield and Physiochemical properties of Kinnow Mandarin Monika Yadav.pdf','',1,'The field experiment conducted during 2017-2018 to evaluate the significance of different sources of fertilizers application on yield and physiochemical properties of Kinnow mandarin at experimental orchard, Department of Horticulture, CCS Haryana Agricultural University, Hisar. The highest number of flowers per twig, initial fruit set, final fruit retention, number of fruits per plant, average weight, yield and minimum fruit drop observed in treatment Ammonium sulphate (2838gm) + DAP (695gm) + KNO3 (230gm) +ZnSO4 (200gm). However, fruit quality parameters i.e., TSS, acidity, ascorbic acid, reducing sugar, non-reducing sugar and total sugar were enhanced with Ammonium sulphate (2975gm) +SSP (2000gm) + KNO3 (230gm) + ZnSO4 (200gm). ','Kinnow, fertilizers, yield, quality, Physiochemical properties, flowers per twig ','From the current analysis, it is inferred that soil application of different sources fertilizers had significant effect on growth, yield and quality of kinnow mandarin. T8 (Ammonium sulphate + DAP + KNO3 + ZnSO4) as soil application proved most effective in enhancing growth parameters i.e., number of flowers per twig, initial fruit set and fruit drop. Fertilizers as soil application efficiently enhanced number of fruits per tree, fruit weight and yield of kinnow mandarin. Kinnow fruit quality in terms of TSS, acidity, TSS/acidity ratio, ascorbic acid content and sugar content was significantly affected by soil application of Ammonium sulphate + SSP + KNO3 + ZnSO4 i.e. treatment T7.','INTRODUCTION\r\nCitrus species are widely cultivated throughout the worldwide tropics and subtropics. The original native range of the genus citrus can be followed to South-east Asia and India. Kinnow (Citrus reticulata Blanco) mandarin hybrid, a cross between ‘King’ and ‘Willow Leaf’ (C. nobilis Lour × C. deliciosa Tenora) is one of the most important and finest varieties of mandarin grown especially in North India. It has gained a lot of popularity among North Indian farmers, and a huge area is being covered in it, especially in Punjab, Haryana, Rajasthan, and Himachal Pradesh. Citrus fruits are grown in four different zones in India: central India (Madhya Pradesh, Maharashtra, and Gujarat), southern India (Andhra Pradesh and Karnataka), north-western India (Punjab, Rajasthan, Haryana, and western Uttar Pradesh), and north-eastern India (Punjab, Rajasthan, Haryana, and western Uttar Pradesh) (Meghalaya, Assam and Sikkim). Kinnow mandarin is gaining commercial importance due to high production, high processing quality, fresh consumption fragrant flavour, and superior adaptation to agro-environmental circumstances. Nutrition is a crucial component for successful and healthy citrus cultivation. An inadequate supply of nutrition causes the improper growth and reduced productivity of the citrus trees. In the adequate fertilization, regular application of nutrients or alternatively use of nutrient enriched organic manures and biofertilizers in integrated nutrient management results in quality citrus production (Srivastava, 2012).\r\nThe effects of nutrition on fruit quality are important to understand and taken into consideration by citrus growers to increase profitability and enhance sustainability and worldwide competitiveness (Zekri and Obreza, 2009). Micronutrients are needed in minute amounts, yet they play an important role in plant metabolism. (Katyal, 2004; Kazi et al., 2012). Integrated nutrient supply management (INM) aims to maintain or alter soil fertility and plant nutrient supply to an optimal level for sustaining desired crop yield by effective and efficient utilization from all available plant nutrients in an integrated approach. Therefore, keeping in view the nutritional requirements, the present study was undertaken to find out the most suitable fertilizer combination and their effect on yield and quality of Kinnow mandarin.\r\nMATERIALS AND METHODS\r\nThis experiment was done on eight years of age Kinnow mandarin trees in Experimental Orchard and Post-harvest Technology Laboratory of the Department of Horticulture, CCS Haryana Agricultural University, Hisar during the year 2017-18. The treatments containing 8 combinations viz., T1: Urea (1520gm) + SSP (2000gm) + MOP (175gm), T2: Urea (1358gm) + DAP (695gm) + MOP (175gm) + ZnSO4 (200gm), T3: Ammonium sulphate (3570gm) + SSP (2000gm) + MOP (175gm) + ZnSO4 (200gm), T4: Ammonium sulphate (2975gm) + DAP (695gm) + MOP (175gm) + ZnSO4 (200gm), T5: Urea (1520gm) + SSP (2000gm) + SOP (220gm) + ZnSO4 (200gm), T6: Urea (1358gm) + DAP (695gm) + SOP (220gm) + Zn SO4 (200gm), T7: Ammonium sulphate (2975gm) + SSP (2000gm) + KNO3 (230gm) + ZnSO4 (200gm) and T8: Ammonium sulphate (2838gm) +DAP (695gm) + KNO3 (230gm) + ZnSO4 (200gm) (In T1 to T8, recommended dose of nitrogen (N) (750gm), phosphorus (P2O5) (320gm) and potassium (K2O) (105gm) per replication was applied by different sources of fertilizers. ZnSO4 (200gm) per replication was applied from T2 to T8 were spread out in randomized block design (RBD) with three replications in three different time of soil application i.e., end of December, last week of February and last week of April. \r\nDuring the experiment different observations were recorded i.e., Number of flowers per twig was taken in every direction, four twigs were chosen on the tree and therefore the number of flowers was counted per twig. Initial fruit set (%) was calculated by subtracting the number of fruits set at initial stage from the total number of flowers on labelled twigs. Fruit drop (%) was calculated by subtracting the number of fruits retained in the month of July from the number of fruits set at initial stage of four labelled branches. Final fruit retention (%) was measured by subtracting the total number of mature fruits from the quantity of initial fruit set. Number of fruits per plant on entire tree was enumerated at harvesting. Average fruit weight (g) was calculated through five arbitrarily chosen fruits from different position of the tree were picked and weighed on electric balance. The average weight was determined by dividing the absolute fruit weight by complete number of fruits taken and communicated in gram. Fruit yield (kg/plant) was determined by multiplying the number of fruits per tree with average fruit weight and communicated in (kg/plant). Total soluble solids (%) was estimated with the assistance of automated hand refractometer (%) and communicated as percent total soluble solids. Titratable acidity (%) estimated by the strategy proposed by AOAC (2000) was pursued for the estimation of titratable acidity. TSS to acid ratio was calculated by dividing TSS with the acidity. Ascorbic acid (mg/100 ml of juice) was detected by the standard method (AOAC, 2000). Total sugars and reducing sugars were estimated by using the method of Hulme and Narain (1993). The non-reducing sugar was detected by subtracting the value of reducing sugar from the estimated total sugar for each sample.\r\nRESULTS AND DISCUSSION\r\nThe data proposed in Table 1 describe the number of flowers per twig tagged in each direction of Kinnow mandarin plant before the application of different combinations of Urea, K2SO4, ZnSO4, SSP, MOP, DAP, KNO3 and ammonium sulphate. The number of flowers tagged per twig was not significantly affected by the treatments. The maximum number of flowers tagged per twig was observed in treatment T8 and the minimum number of flowers tagged per twig was in treatment T1. Whereas, the maximum initial fruit set (%) was recorded in treatment T8 and the minimum initial fruit set (%) was obtained from the treatment T2. Different chemical treatments significantly affected percent fruit drop in Kinnow mandarin as shown in Table 1. Minimum number of percent fruit drop (59.20%) was recorded with T8 and it was found superior. Maximum number of fruit drop (67.43%) was observed in T1. The perusal data given in Table 1 revealed that the different treatments considerably affected final fruit retention. The maximum retention (22.11%) was observed in T8and the minimum (17.05%) was observed in T1. The influence of different sources of fertilizers was significantly seen in case of number of fruits per tree, fruit weight and yield as given in Table 1. The observations pertaining in Table 1 was evaluated and it is evident from data that the different sources of fertilizers affected significantly. The maximum number of fruits (550.67) was recorded in T8 which was at par with T7 (548.33). The minimum (503.33) was observed in T1. Average fruit weight was significantly affected by the treatments applied. The maximum fruit weight (152.8 gm) was observed in T8 which was statistically at par with T2 (152.3gm), T3 (152.7gm), T4 (152.3gm) and T7 (152.7gm). Yield was significantly influenced by different sources of fertilizer according to data pertained in Table 1. The maximum yield of 84.14 kg/tree was observed in T8with the effect of which was closely followed by T7. Minimum yield (76.15 kg/tree) was recorded in T1.\r\nAccording to the literature, the appliance of Zn augmented the fruit production and quality (Rodríguez et al., 2005), so the best combination of macro-, micronutrients and plant growth regulators could manage the extreme fruit drop and recover the citrus fruit yield and its quality (Doberman and Fairhurst, 2000; Saleem et al., 2008). The reduction in fruit drop is due to completion of the deficiency in plants which leads to synthesis of carbohydrates. According to Awasthy et al. (1975) zinc sulphate spray positively significantly abridged fruit drop in litchi. The decline was due to augmented biosynthesis of IAA in zinc treated plants and concluded that foliar appliance of ZnSO4 at 0.5, 1.0 and 1.5 per cent concentrations, significantly amplified number of fruits, pulp weight and volume. Fruit drop and final fruit retention are generally varietal traits, even though water and nutritional stress increases fruit drop in liable trees (Rameshwar and Rao 1980). The different treatments considerably improved number of fruits per tree, average fruit weight and yield. Due to accretion of more food material in the trees leads to an efficient exploitation of the same for development of fruit which leads to better fruit diameter and yield. As evidenced by the current study, increased number of flowers, fruit set, and reduced fruit drop and concluded obtained a higher number of fruits per tree and yield. Nutrient management can augment the fruit yield by increasing fruit number, retention and reducing fruit drop (Saleem et al., 2005; Ashraf et al., 2010). Application of NPK fertilizers proves promising for increasing fruit size and yield (He et al., 2003; Abd-allah, 2006). In addition to increasing the size of Kinnow\'s fruit by modification of soil through application of potassium fertilizer. According to current and previous findings the application of potassium (K) has a positive link with fruit size (Obreza, 2003; Quaggio et al., 2002). Daulta et al. (1983) stated that all the concentrations (0.2, 0.4 and 0.6%) of ZnSo4 significantly enhanced the berry weight above the control in Beauty Seedless grape. ZnSO4 with 0.4 and 0.6 per cent significantly augmented the berry length and breadth over control, while the utmost berry weight was obtained with ZnSO4 (0.6%), while boron could not influence berry weight. \r\nThe data tabulated in Table 2 revealed that different sources of fertilizers significantly affected the quality parameters i.e., total soluble solids, acidity, TSS/acidity ratio, ascorbic acid, reducing sugars, non-reducing sugars and total sugars. The highest TSS (11.50 ºBrix) was observed with T7 which was statistically superior to all the treatments. Minimum TSS (10.01 ºBrix) was recorded in T1 and was statistically at par with T2 (10.05 ºBrix). Various chemical treatments significantly affected acidity of Kinnow mandarin fruits. Minimum acidity (0.82%) was observed with T7. Maximum acidity (1.01%) was observed in T1. TSS/acidity ratio was significantly affected by different fertilizer treatments. Maximum TSS/acidity ratio (14.02) was recorded with soil application of T7 which was statistically at par with T8 (13.95). Lowest TSS/acidity ratio (9.91) was recorded in T1.The ascorbic acid of kinnow mandarin was significantly affected by different sources of fertilizers. The maximum ascorbic acid content (31.01mg/100ml juice) was found in T7 which was statistically at par with T5 (30.38 mg/100ml juice) and T8 (30.42mg/100ml fruit juice). The minimum value (28.36 mg/100ml juice) was seen in T1. T2 (28.45mg/100ml juice), T3 (29.06 mg/100ml juice) and T4 (28.85 mg/100ml juice) were found at par with T1. The data pertaining to sugar content (%) is tabulated in Table 2 which was found significant towards the different sources of fertilizers applied. It is observed in treatment T7 found maximum reducing sugar content (3.31 %) which was statistically at par with T5 (3.28%), T6 (3.29%) and T8 (3.29%). The minimum reducing sugar content (3.19%) was observed in T2 which was statistically similar to T2 (3.23%). Whereas, the minimum non reducing sugar (4.15%) was observed in T2 which was statistically at par with T1 (4.16%). The maximum value (4.99%) was seen in T7 and statistically similar effect was seen in T3 (4.96%), T4 (4.94%), T5 (4.98%), T6 (4.95%) and T8 (4.98%). The total sugar content was affected significantly and the maximum total sugar content (8.30%) was observed in T7 which was statistically at par with T3 (8.24%), T5 (8.26%), T6 (8.24%) and T8 (8.27%). The minimum total sugar content (7.35%) was reported in T1 and it was statistically similar to T2 (7.38%).\r\nThe different fertilizers significantly affected the quality parameters during the investigation. Maximum total soluble solids, TSS/acidity ratio, ascorbic acid and lowest acidity was recorded with Ammonium sulphate + SSP + KNO3 + ZnSO4. The foliar spray of micronutrients (0.5%) + B (0.3%) + Cu (0.7%) leads to upgrading of quality of fruit in requisites of TSS content and it might be contributed to the fact that micronutrients directly play a vital function in plant metabolism as zinc is required in enzymatic reaction like hexokinase, development of carbohydrate and protein synthesis (Pamila et al., 1992). The elevated total soluble solids could also be accredited to the efficient translocation of photosynthesis to the fruit by regulation of copper, boron and zinc as investigated by Ullah et al. (2012). Shukla et al. (2011) reported that amongst borax concentrations (0.4%) proved mainly helpful in increasing the TSS, total sugar and abridged titratable acidity in aonla fruits. Ullah et al. (2012) revealed that acidity percentage of mandarin fruit might have been abridged due to elevated synthesis of nucleic acids, on account of greatest accessibility of plant metabolism. The decline in acidity content as a result of micronutrient application in fruit juice samples might be due to their utilization in respiration and rapid metabolic transformation of organic acids in to sugars (Brahmachari et al, 1997). Enhancement in TSS, TSS/acid ratio, ascorbic acid content, and reduction in acidity may be due to the fact that phosphorus enters into the composition of phospholipids and nucleic acids. Nucleic acids combine with proteins and leads to formation of nucleoproteins which are important constituents of the nuclei of the cells. Potassium as a catalyst acts in the creation of more complex substances and in the hastening in the enzymatic activity. The complex carbohydrate substances and co-enzymes resulted into an enhancement in fruit quality. Nitrogen enhances the uptake of phosphorus and potassium. The appliance of FYM in soil is helpful for the growth of soil microorganisms, which also excrete the plant promoting substances, vitamins and amino acid content. These might have enhanced the fruit quality. The conversion of mannose or galactose molecules, which are monosaccharide carbohydrates, lead to the formation of ascorbic acid (Wheeler et al., 1998). \r\n','Monika Yadav, G.S. Rana1, M.L. Jat and Raveena (2022). Significance of Different Sources of Fertilizers Application on Yield and Physiochemical properties of Kinnow Mandarin. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 14(2): 1348-1352.'),(5061,'125','‘T’- shaped Spore Trap Aids to Predict the occurrence of Turcicum Leaf Blight Disease in Maize caused by Helminthosporium turcicum','V. Malavika, V. Sendhilvel*, R. Kannan, R. Ravikesavan and Ga. Dheebakaran','234 ‘T’- shaped Spore Trap Aids to Predict the occurrence of Turcicum Leaf Blight Disease in Maize caused by Helminthosporium turcicum V. Malavika.pdf','',1,'Turcicum leaf blight (TLB) or Northern corn leaf blight (NCLB) caused by Helminthosporium turcicum Pass. (Syn. Exserohilum turcicum Pass.) is one of the destructive disease in maize and causes yield loss up to 70%. During the monsoon season, the rapid outbreak of the disease and spread of the inoculum is causing the disease incidence from 65 to 73%. The primary inoculum is playing vital role for the outbreak of the disease. The present investigation relies on monitoring the inoculum load and interaction with weather factors for the occurrence of TLB. ‘T’-shaped spore trap was designed and placed in the maize field to assess the spore load at weekly intervals. The results revealed that the air borne conidia of H. turcicum was trapped on 35 days after sowing (DAS) followed by the disease occurrence which was noticed on 7th day after trapping of the spore (i.e. 42 days after sowing). The highest spore load and the disease incidence was recorded on 84 DAS fetched with 17th and 18th Standard Meteorological Week (SMW). The correlation and regression analysis revealed that minimum temperature, Relative humidity and dew were played critical role for disease development. The Area under disease progress curve (AUDPC) analysis indicated that the sudden disease progression was noticed on 13th SMW with AUDPC value of 134.05 with AUDPC of 81.5 in the previous week. This finding forewarns the occurrence of the TLB disease based on the inoculum.','H. turcicum, Spore trap, weather factors','Turcicum leaf blight disease in maize causes severe blightening, finally drying of the leaves and reduction in grain yield.The \'T\'- shaped spore trap was designed that can monitor the spore load earlier and gives the warning about the primary inoculum. The management practices can be done as soon as monitoring the spore which reduces the severity of the disease in the field. ','INTRODUCTION\r\nMaize (Zea mays L.) is also known as ‘Queen of cereals’ and ‘Miracle crop’ because of its high yielding potential (Kumari et al., 2020). It is third commercially cultivated cereals next to rice and wheat. It originated in Mexico which belongs to the family Gramineae. In India, it is cultivated in more than 9.72 million hectares with yield of 2945 Kg/hectare (Anonymous, 2020). Maize is used for both food and fodder purposes. Turcicum leaf blight (TLB) or Northern corn leaf blight (NCLB) incited by Exserohilum turcicum (Pass) Leonard and Sugg. (Syn. Helminthosporium turcicum (Pass)) is considered as an important disease because of its severe infestation under favourable conditions. The perfect stage of this pathogen, Setosphaeria turcica (Syn. Trichometaspheria turcica) described first by Luttrell in 1957, is rarely found in nature. This disease was first reported by Passerini from Perma, Italy. In India, the disease was first identified by Butler in 1907 from Bihar. Reddy et al. (2014) studied the yield losses of Turcicum leaf blight disease and reported that seventy percent of yield losses were due to reduced kernel weight. The disease primarily affects photosynthetic processes, resulting in a decrease in photosynthate production and correspondingly reduced the yield. The pathogen, H. turcicum over wintering as mycelium or conidia on the infected plant debris (Levy, 1983). Presence of alternate host crops and volunteer crops acts as primary inoculum and also found to be seed transmissible (Richardson and Noble 1968). The environmental factors such as temperature, relative humidity and rainfall have an impact on disease development and spread. The spread of the disease is influenced by air borne conidia and the severe outbreak was reported by Levy (1983) due to sudden increase of the inoculum. The studies on the device for monitoring the spore load of pathogen is limited and there is no user-friendly device available at present. Hence, the study was proposed to assess the spore load of H. turcicum in maize field and predict the TLB disease under different weather factors.\r\nMATERIALS AND METHODS\r\nDesigning of ‘T’- shaped spore trap: To monitor the air borne conidia of H. turcicum in maize canopy, a spore trap was designed. The trap consisted of microscopic slide platform grooved with holders. The platform was mounted on the iron rod of 180 cm length. The trap was installed in the ground by burying to a depth of 30 cm. From the ground, the first platform was placed at 60cm height and then at 90cm, 120 cm and 150 cm (Fig. 1).\r\nInstallation of spore trap in the field:\r\nThe maize crop was raised with an area of 80 m2. The susceptible inbred CM 500 was sown on 28 January 2022. The plant protection and fertilization practices were carried out as per the agronomic practices for maize cultivation. The spore trap was installed one week after sowing. The microscopic slides smeared with vaseline was placed on the platform tilted with opposite orientations. The conidia of H. turcicum was confirmed as described by Drechsler (1923) and Meredith (1966). The spore load at ten microscopic fields were assessed and from this final spore load/microscopic field/week was calculated.\r\nAssessment of TLB disease incidence: For measuring the severity of the TLB disease, 25 plants were randomly selected and tagged. The disease severity was recorded by using 1 to 5 scale given by Payak & Sharma (1983) as given below. \r\n1.0- Very slight to slight infection. One or two to few scattered lesions on lower leaves only\r\n2.0- Light infection, moderate number of lesions on lower leaves\r\n3.0- Moderate infection, abundant lesions on lower leaves, few on middle leaves\r\n4.0- Heavy infection, lesions abundant on lower and middle leaves, extending to upper leaves\r\n5.0- Very heavy infection, lesions abundant on almost all leaves, plants prematurely dry or killed by the disease\r\nThe percent disease index (PDI) was calculated as described by Wheeler (1969) as follows\r\n ×100\r\nCollection of weather parameters: Daily meteorological data were collected from the Meteorological Observatory maintained by Agro Climate Research Centre, TNAU, Coimbatore. The weather parameters, including maximum and minimum temperatures, relative humidity, rainfall and dew were acquired to determine the role of various weather conditions in the disease spread.\r\nCorrelation and Regression analysis:\r\nTo study the interaction of weather parameters and disease development, correlation and multiple regression analysis were carried out as described by Gomez and Gomez (1984). For this, the average maximum and minimum temperatures, relative humidity, rainfall and dew for the six days preceding disease observation were used.\r\nAnalysing Area Under Disease Progress Curve: To study the disease progress, the AUDPC analysis was carried out using the given formula (Wilcoxson et al. 1975).\r\nAUDPC=∑_(i=1)^(n-1)▒〖((y_i+y_(i+1))/2)(t_(i+1)-t_i)〗\r\nyi = Amount of disease at ith time, i ranges from 1 to n\r\nyi-1 = Amount of disease at (i-1)th time.\r\nt2 - t1 = Number of days between two observations.\r\nn = Number of successive evaluation of disease\r\nRESULTS AND DISCUSSION\r\nThe conidia of H. turcicum was first detected at 9th Standard Meteorological Week (SMW) i.e. between Feb 26 to March 4 with the spore load of 0.06 spore/ microscopic field/ week (Table 1). The intensity of conidial load increased gradually and it attains the maximum value nearer to crop maturity. The Turcicum leaf blight disease was reported first in 10th SMW with PDI of 3.2%. These findings revealed that the duration for the spore occurrence and disease incipient was seven days which forewarns the disease development. The sudden spore load increase was recorded at 16th SMW which is accompanied by the average rainfall of 4.28mm. The maximum disease incidence was recorded at 18th SMW with PDI of 53.5%. It is clearly witnessed that 14 days incubation time between the sudden increase of spore load (16th SMW) and the outbreak of the disease (18th SMW). Similarly Meredith (1966) studied and reported that the conidial concentration of H. turcicum increases with rainfall in the previous day. Leach (1980) reported that the conidia of H. turcicum disperse both in active and passive manner. The passive discharge through the strong wind and high rainfall. The active dispersal of conidia occurs when relative humidity becomes low. \r\nThe simple linear correlation analysis was studied between the environmental factors and TLB disease incidence. It revealed that all the meteorological parameters has a substantial impact on percent disease intensity of Turcicum Leaf Blight disease. The results showed that during the crop season, all the weather factors such as minimum and maximum temperature, morning and evening relative humidity, rainfall and dew had a positive relationship with the severity of Turcicum leaf blight disease (Table 3). Among that, evening relative humidity has a significant positive relation with the disease incidence of TLB. As it is known that, no weather factors can independently influences the Turcicum leaf blight disease. So, the multiple regression analysis will provide additional insight on the influence of various weather factors on this disease. The data was then subjected to multiple linear regression analysis, yielding six regression coefficients of -0.753, 9.732, -2.580, 0.847, 1.352, 24.188 for independent weather variables such as maximum and minimum temperature, morning and evening RH, rainfall and dew, with an R2 value (i.e. coefficient of multiple determination) of 0.82, indicating 83 percent variation in disease severity due to weather parameters (Table 4). As a result, the congenial weather parameters for the TLB disease was assessed at 30 to 35ºC of maximum temperature, 20 to 25ºC of minimum temperature, 83 to 85% of morning relative humidity, 45 to 53% of evening relative humidity.\r\nSimilar results were recorded by Berger (1970); Benedict (1979); Frederikson (1986); Hennessy et al. (1990). They reported that the TLB disease epidemic is favoured by high relative humidity and rainfall, moderate temperature and availability of large amount of inoculum. Levy (1983) reported that the conidial germination occurs at 30 to 35ºC and reaches the maximum of 100 percent germination under 20 to 25ºC after two hours of dew. The germination of conidia and its penetration on the maize leaf surfaces occurs in the presence of free moisture in the dark at temperatures ranging from 10 to 35ºC with optimum temperature of 25ºC (Levy, 1984). Nwanosike (2015) reported that Turcicum leaf blight was most influenced by the Relative humidity. Palaversic et al. (2012) has shown that the disease occurs in areas where high humidity and moderate to high temperatures occur during three leaf stage to grain development stage.\r\nAUDPC for Turcicum leaf blight on leaves was analysed at weekly interval from the recorded PDI value. AUDPC assessment at weekly intervals gives the information about the weather conditions that favours the disease development. The sudden disease Progression was noticed on 13th SMW with AUDPC value of 134.05. The log Phase was recorded up to 17th SMW i.e. until crop maturity (Table 2). Adipala et al. (1993) reported that the AUDPC values can give an estimation about the yield losses due to TLB disease in the field. In maize crop, it is clearly evident that the plant protection measures should be taken soon after assessing the spore load to reduce the yield losses.\r\n','V. Malavika, V. Sendhilvel, R. Kannan, R. Ravikesavan and Ga. Dheebakaran (2022). ‘T’- shaped Spore Trap Aids to Predict the occurrence of Turcicum Leaf Blight Disease in Maize caused by Helminthosporium turcicum. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 14(2): 1353-1357.'),(5062,'125','Varietal Reaction of Potato against Late and Early Blight Diseases under West Bengal condition','A. Chakraborty, S. Murmu* and A. H. Siddiki','235 Varietal Reaction of Potato against Late and Early Blight Diseases under West Bengal Condition A. Chakraborty.pdf','',1,'Potato is an important starchy solanaceous food crop. Its production drastically reduced by late blight and early blight diseases under favourable conditions. Therefore to find out resistant variety against these diseases ten varieties of potato were screened against late and early blight diseases during 2019-2020 and 2021-2022 cropping season. It was observed that three varieties i.e. Kufri Himalini, Kufri Kesar and Kufri Chipsona-3 showed the less disease incidence (36.42, 44.56 and 46.69% respectively) and disease severity (16.21, 20.94 and 21.35% respectively) against late blight disease after 73 DAP compared to other varieties. Kufri Gaurav, Kufri Khyati, Kufri Neelkantha and Kufri Garima exhibited slightly higher disease incidence (58.20, 66.17, 67.15, and 68.29% respectively) and disease severity (32.10, 41.77, 42.31 and 42.49% respectively) than Kufri Himalini, Kufri Kesar and Kufri Chipsona-3. Kufri Jyoti, Kufri Pukhraj and Kufri Pushkar were highly susceptible due to significantly higher disease incidence (100, 100 and 100% respectively) and disease severity (61.99, 63.55 and 66.17% respectively) than other varieties. Similar type of result was obtained against early blight disease of potato also. Kufri Himalini, Kufri Kesar and Kufri Chipsona-3 were highly resistant to early blight disease due to lower disease incidence (19.29, 19.89 and 21.13% respectively) and severity (9.19, 10.23 and 11.52 % respectively) and Kufri Jyoti, Kufri Pukhraj and Kufri Pushkar were highly susceptible due to higher disease incidence (54.29, 56.23 and 57.23% respectively) and severity (27.14, 27.23 and 29.13% respectively). The result revealed that Kufri Himalini, Kufri Kesar and Kufri Chipsona-3 were highly resistant against both the diseases due to less disease incidence and severity compared to other varieties. Therefore these three varieties can be used for commercial cultivation against late blight and early blight of potato in West Bengal situation.','Disease incidence, disease severity, early blight, potato, variety','Both late blight and early blight are vulnerable diseases of potato causing huge loss in the production. Therefore, resistant cultivar is required against both these diseases for commercial cultivation by the farmers. Here few varieties viz., Kufri Himalini, Kufri Kesar and Kufri Chipsona-3 were found to be highly resistant to this disease due to lower disease incidence and severity along with higher yield and Kufri Gaurav, Kufri Khyati, Kufri Neelkantha and Kufri Garima were moderately resistant. Therefore, Kufri Himalini, Kufri Kesar and Kufri Chipsona-3 can be commercially cultivated by farmers in West Bengal against both late and early blight of potato. ','INTRODUCTION\r\nPotato is an important starchy food crop belonging to the family solanaceae. It is cultivated in different parts of India widely. It seems to be originated from South America more preciously from mountains of southern Peru and Bolivia. Potato is the world\'s fourth-largely consumed food crop following rice, wheat and maize (Gupta and Modgil 2008). Potato occupies an area of 20.64 million hectares in the world with an annual production of 392.96 million tons and an average productivity of 19.03 tons per hectare. Potato is a short duration crop widely grown all over the world. India ranks first in the area (2.17 m ha) and production (51.28 m tons) with an average productivity of 23.63 t/ha. Potato production in India expanded from 2.7 million tons in 1961 to 51.28 million tons in 2020. The top producers of potato in the world are India (28.01%), China (23.90%) and Russia (8.1%). Potato is grown almost in all the states of India. Major potato growing states are Uttar Pradesh, West Bengal, Bihar, Gujarat, Madhya Pradesh, Punjab, Assam, Chhattisgarh, Jharkhand and Haryana. In West Bengal potato occupies an area of 4.6 lakh hectares with a production of 13.16 m tonnes per annum. The potato is susceptible to many diseases which consistently cause yield losses in potato production. Late blight, early blight, Phoma leaf spot, common scab, black scurf, dry rot and wilting are the important fungal diseases in West Bengal. Among these diseases, the most commonly occurring and destructive foliar diseases are late blight and early blight in West Bengal. Severity and incidence caused by late blight pathogen varied from 1.50 to 60.00% and 2.00 to 75.00% respectively and the yield declined up to 65.00% (Bisht et al., 1997). The disease incidence of early blight varies from 19.10% to 30.50% and yield loss up to 40.00% from year to year depending upon the weather condition and varieties grown. The crop losses can be reduced following suitable chemical control measures. But chemical control measure is hazardous to human being and environment and repeated use of chemical fungicides develop resistance to the pathogens. The management of these diseases using various cultural practices is more acceptable and ecologically viable. Keeping these views in mind the present experiment was conducted to find out suitable potato cultivar which will be more resistant to both of these diseases. \r\nMATERIALS AND METHODS \r\nThe experiment on the varietal reaction of potato against early blight and late blight diseases was conducted during the Rabi season in the District seed farm ‘C’ Unit, Bidhan Chandra Krishi Viswavidyalaya, Kalyani, Nadia, West Bengal during the year of 2019-2020 and 2021-2022. Ten different varieties of potato were selected for the studies viz. Kufri Garima, Kufri Neelkantha, Kufri Pushkar, Kufri Chipsona-3, Kufri Jyoti, Kufri Himalini, Kufri Khyati, Kufri Gaurav, Kufri Lima and Kufri Pukhraj. \r\nRecording of data: Data was recorded to determine disease incidence and severity after appearance of the diseases in the field. Seventeen plants were selected randomly in each plot of each variety of potato crop. The observations were made at seven days interval after first appearance of the diseases. For measuring the disease severity lower, middle and upper leaf of each plant were selected and labelled for subsequent observations. Then the percentage of leaf area infected of each leaf was recorded. To determine the disease incidence total no. of plants and no. of infected plants in each plot were recorded and ultimately used this data to calculate the disease severity following the formula.\r\n Disease incidence (%) = (No. of plant infected)/(No. of plant observed) × 100\r\nThe descriptive (0-6) scale (Campbell and Madden 1990) used for the assessment of late blight disease intensity and (0-5) scale (Ganie et al., 2013) used for the assessment of disease intensity of early blight of potato (Table 1).\r\nThe percent disease index (PDI) was calculated using the formula according to the Mc Kinney (1923).\r\nPDI = (Sum of numerical ratings)/(Total no.of leaves observed ×highest disease rating ) × 100\r\nRESULTS AND DISCUSSION \r\nHere ten varieties of potato were tested against late blight and early blight diseases of potato under field condition. The varieties exhibited different types of reactions, i.e.- a) highly resistant -Kufri Himalini, Kufri Kesar, Kufri Chipsona-3; b) moderately resistant - Kufri Gaurav, Kufri Khyati, Kufri Neelkantha, Kufri Garima; c) susceptible - Kufri jyoti, Kufri Pukhraj; and d) highly susceptible - Kufri Pushkar; against both these diseases. Kufri Himalini (T5) exhibited highly resistant reaction to late blight in terms of lower disease incidence (36.42%) and severity (16.21%) with yield 45.00 ton/ha followed by Kufri Kesar (T10) where per cent disease incidence and severity were 44.56 and 20.94% respectively at 73 DAP with a production of 44.50 t/ha. Higher disease resistance reaction was also exhibited by kufri chipsona-3 (T4) where percent disease incidence and severity were 46.69 and 21.35 respectively at 73 DAP and 44.10 t/ha yield. Kufri Gaurav (T8), Kufri Khyati (T6), Kufri Neelkantha (T9) and Kufri Garima (T1) were moderately resistant in terms of slightly higher disease incidence i.e. 58.20, 66.17, 67.15 and 68.29% respectively and severity i.e. 32.10, 41.77, 42.31, 42.49% respectively with lower yield i.e. 43.90, 42.50, 42.44 and 42.00 t/ha respectively compared to Kufri Himalini, Kufri Kesar and Kufri Chipsona-3. Kufri Jyoti (T2) and Kufri Pukhraj (T7) were susceptible to this disease and produced 31.70 t/ha and 31.45 t/ha respectively. \r\nBut among theses varieties Kufri Pushkar (T3) was highly susceptible due to higher disease incidence (100.00%) and disease severity (66.17%) (Table 2 & 3).\r\nMohsan et al. (2016) also reported that one of the potato varieties, FD 73-73 was highly resistant to late blight disease due to low infection (10%) which was similar with the result of this experiment where Kufri Himalini, Kufri Kesar and Kufri Chipsona-3 were also highly resistant to this disease.\r\nSame trend was also observed against early blight disease. Kufri Himalini (T5), Kufri Kesar (T10) and Kufri Chipsona-3 (T4) exhibited highly resistant reaction due to lower disease incidence i.e. 19.29, 19.89 and 21.13% respectively and disease severity i.e. 9.19, 10.23 and 11.52% respectively with yield i.e. 45.00t/ha, 44.50t/ha and 44.10 t/ha respectively. Kufri Khyati (T6), Kufri Gaurav (T8), Kufri Neelkantha (T9) and Kufri Garima (T1) were moderately resistant and Kufri Jyoti (T2), Kufri Pukhraj (T7) and Kufri Pushkar (T3) were treated as highly susceptible due to higher disease incidence i.e. 54.29, 56.23, and 57.23% respectively and disease severity i.e. 27.14, 27.23, and 29.13% respectively compared to other cultivars (Table 4 & 5). \r\nThese findings are similar with Dey et al. (2012) who reported that Kufri Jyoti and Kufri Ashoka showed less disease incidence (4.12 and 12.36%) and disease intensity (1.87 and 3.20%) at 14 days after first appearance of the disease in the field. \r\nBut here almost similar type of result was found in three varieties viz., Kufri Himalini, Kufri Kesar and Kufri Chipsona-3 after 28 days of appearance where disease incidence and disease severity ranging 19.29 - 21.13% and 9.19 to 11.52% respectively which was slightly higher than referred result. So these varieties may be accepted for cultivation with proper management practices.\r\n','A. Chakraborty, S. Murmu and A.H. Siddiki (2022). Varietal Reaction of Potato Against Late and Early Blight Diseases under West Bengal Condition. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 14(2): 1358-1361.'),(5063,'125','Effect of Bio Agents, Organic Amendments, Silver Nano Particles and Fungicide on Induction of Peroxidase and Poly Phenol Oxidase in Crossandra (Crossandra infundibuliformis) Plants Affected by Fusarium incarnatum (Desm.) Sacc','Mallaiah B.* and Muthamillan M.','236 Effect of Bio Agents, Organic Amendments, Silver Nano Particles and Fungicide on Induction of Peroxidase and Poly Phenol Oxidase in Crossandra _Crossandra infundibuliformis_ Mallaiah B.pdf','',1,'Laboratory studies were carried with a objective to study the effect of different bioagents, organic amendments, silver nanoparticles and fungicide in management of crossandra wilt caused by Fusarium incarnatum and nematode Pratylenchus delattrei and role of enzymes Peroxidase and poly phenol oxidase in offering disease resistance. During the study observations are made on induction of Peroxidase and poly phenol oxidase levels in crossandra plants. All the treatments applied recorded increased levels of PO and PPO in crossandra plants, but among all soil application (SA) of Trichoderma viride(T.v) @ 2.5 kg/ha at 20 DAP(days after planting) plus soil drenching (SD) of carbendazim @ 0.1% at 30 DAP plus SA of T. viride @ 2.5 kg/ha at 50 DAP plus Foliar application (FA) of Pseudomonas fluorescens@ 1.0 kg/ha at 70 DAP plus Foliar application (FA) of Bacillus subtilis @ 1.0 kg /ha at 90 DAP was found to be significantly best in induction of PO and PPS in crossandra plants. The same results are also noticed in later stage in reducing disease incidence compare to control and other treatments.','Crossandra, Fusariu spp, Peroxidase, Poly phenol oxidase','It was found that SA of T. viride @ 2.5 kg/ha at 20 DAP plus SA of carbendazim @ 0.1% at 30 DAP plus SA of T. viride @ 2.5 kg/ha at 50 DAP plus FA of P. fluorescens@ 1.0 kg/ha at 70 DAP plus FA of B. subtilis @ 1.0 kg /ha at 90 DAP was found to be significantly superior in increase of defense enzymes like PO and PPOs. These enzymes also offering resistance in later stage by preventing disease incidence in plants and signifies their role as important component of disease resistance in plants against pathogens including insects. ','INRODUCTION\r\nCrossandra mainly grows in southern part of India. Tamil Nadu, Karnataka, Andhra Pradesh and Maharastra are important states growing Crossandra. This crop can be cultivated very easily by small farmers throughout the year.\r\nThe flowers are MAJORLY used for hair adornment along with Jasmine flowers. Even though flower are not much fragrant, these flowers are very popular because of their attractive bright colour, light weight and long keeping quality. The flowers are used for making garlands, either alone or in combination with jasmine flowers. Steady market demand as well as guaranteed and regular income have made crossandra a profitable venture for south Indian farmers. \r\n Fungai, bacteria and nematodes are major pathogens that causes diseases in crossandra plants. Among the various fungal diseases wilt disease caused by Fusarium spp. is a major problem in Crossandra production and restrict the crop cultivation and is also associated with nematode such as Pratylenchus delettrei (Srinivasan and Muthukrishnan 1975). Control of this disease has become very difficult due to its soil borne and complex nature. \r\nIntegrated disease management involves use of different individual methods like use of biological agents/chemicals/bio technological/Physical and cultural methods for management of plant diseases. In all the methods of disease control, activation of defense mechanisms in plants are very important for effective disease management. Kamalakannan (2004) reported that soil application of bio control agents such as Trichoderma and P. fluorescens induced higher amount of Peroxidase, Polyphenol oxidase, Phenylalanine ammonia - lyase and total phenols in coleus plants. Bradley et al. (1992) also reported that the increased levels of peroxidase (PO) activity has been correlated with resistance in many plant such as barley, cucurbits, cotton, tobacco and wheat. Usually polyphenol oxidase accumulates upon wounding in plants. Saravanakumar (2002) noticed different isoforms viz., PPO1, PPO2, and PPO3 in PGPR treated plants after inoculation with Macrophomina phaseolina. Fuerst et al. (2014) reported the role PO and PPO IN biochemical seed defense mechanism. Tyagi et al. (2000) clearly explained the role of peroxidase and polyphenol oxidase isozymes in wheat resistance to Alternaria triticina\r\n \r\nKeeping all in view, pot culture experiments were conducted to observe the changes in induction of defense enzymes in treated crossandra plants with bio agents, organic amendments, silver nano particles and fungicide. \r\nMATERIALS AND METHODS\r\nThe local crossandra cultivar used in all pot culture studies. The pathogen (F. incarnatum) multiplied on sand maize medium was incorporated in the pots @ 3 per cent (w/w) and nematode inoculated @ 1 nematode per gram of soil. All the treatments like bio agents, nano particles, organic amendments and chemicals were applied as per schedule. The observations on enzyme studies were carried out after last application as mentioned in the treatment schedule. The leaves were collected from the pots at 0, 3, 5, 7 and 9 days after last application in each treatment. The collected leaves were washed several times with sterile distilled water before enzyme extraction. Every treatment was replicated six times with each replication containing three pots with two plants in each pot. \r\nPeroxidase (PO) Assay. One gram of fresh leaf taken from each treatment was ground in one ml of 0.1M phosphate buffer with pH 7.0 in a pre cooled pestle and mortar separately. The homogenate was centrifuged at 15,000 rpm at 4oC for 15 minutes. The supernatant taken from the leaves of each treatment was used as enzyme source. The reaction mixture consists of 1.5 ml of 0.05M pyrogallol, 0.1 ml of enzyme extract and 0.5 ml of one per cent H2O2. The changes in absorbance of the reaction mixture was recorded at 420 nm at 30 seconds interval for three minutes at room temperature (28  2°C). The boiled enzyme preparation used as check. The enzyme activity was expressed as change in absorbance of the reaction mixture min-1g-1 of leaf (Hammerschmidt et al., 1982).\r\nPolyphenol oxidase (PPO) Assay. One gram of fresh leaves collected from each treatment was ground in one ml of 0.1 M sodium phosphate buffer (pH 6.5) separately. The centrifugation carried at 15,000 rpm for 15 min at 4˚C and the supernatant used as the enzyme source. The reaction mixture consisted of 1.5 ml of 0.1M sodium phosphate buffer pH 6.5 and 0.1 ml of the enzyme extract. The reaction initiated by the addition of 0.2 ml of catechol (0.01M). The enzyme activity expressed as change in absorbance at 495 nm at 30 sec interval for three min. The enzyme activity also expressed as change in absorbance per minet per g of leaf (Mayer et al., 1965).\r\nThe details of treatment schedule are as follow\r\nRESULTS AND DISCUSSION \r\nInduction of Peroxidase (PO) activity: The activity of peroxidase was increased in crossandra plants inoculated with F. incarnatum and P. delattrei followed by treated with bioagents, organic amendments, nano particles and chemicals in different combinations. The results reveales that the activity of PO was significantly higher in crossandra plants treated with T16 (0.513 changes in absorbance /min/g of leaf tissue) at five days after last application, whereas no significant difference was observed in the PO activity in the un inoculated plants throughout the period of study (Table 1).\r\nPeroxidase is a component of an early response in plants to pathogen attack and plays a important role in the biosynthesis of lignin which ristricts the extent of pathogen spread. The products of this enzyme in presence of hydrogen donor and hydrogen peroxide has antimicrobial and antiviral activity (Van Loon and Callow 1983). Increased levels of peroxidase has been observed in a number of resistant interaction involving plant pathogenic fungi, bacteria and virus (Chen et al., 2009; Nandhakumar et al., 2001; Kavitha et al., 2005). \r\nIn the present study, peroxidase activity was two times greater than the un inoculated control. Increased activity of cell wall bound peroxidase has been reported in different plants such as cucumber (Chen et al., 2009), rice (Reimers et al., 1992), and tomato (Mohan et al., 1993). Increased activities of PO was also observed in P. chlororaphis isolate (BCA) and B. subtilis isolate (CBE4) treated hot pepper seedlings after challenging inoculation with the pathogen P. aphanidermatum (Nakkeeran et al., 2006). \r\nThe application of endophytic microbes like B. subtilis and P. fluorescens, alone or in combination in green house and field experiments were found to be effective in managing the chilli Fusarium wilt by inducing systemic resistance (ISR) as supported by enhanced activities of PO, PPO, PAL, β-1,3-glucanase, chitinase and phenolics. These are involved in the synthesis of phyto alexins, so that promoting the growth of plants (Sundaramoorthy et al., 2012). Furthermore, interactions among the biocontrol agents may also have synergistic effects that could induce ISR and promotes the growth of the plants (Latha et al., 2009). \r\nPolyphenol oxidase. The results reveales that Polyphenol oxidase activity also reached the maximum at five days after last application. The induction of PPO was almost double times in treated plants than control. The treatment T16 recorded the maximum (0.954 changes in absorbance /min/g of leaf tissue) level of PPO activity at 5 days after last application and it was followed by T20 recording of 0.923. The PPO activity was slightly increased in the inoculated control, when compared to untreated control (Table 2).\r\nPolyphenol oxidase, enzyme contain copper which usually accumulates on wounding in plants. Many reports correlated the induction of PPO activity offering resistance in plants (Velazhahan and Vidhyasekaran 1994). The enzymes PO and PPO plays a vital role in catalyzing and the oxidation of phenolic compounds through a PPO-PO-H2O2 path way (Srivastava, 1987). \r\nThe present study cofirms that the integrated module T16 significantly increases the activity of PPO in crossandra leaves. The similar results reported by Kavitha (2004); Kamalakannan (2004) that the applications of P. fluorescens isolate and B. subtilis isolate B 49 combination significantly increased PPO activity against the soil borne pathogens Pythim aphanidermatum and Macrophomina phaseolina.\r\nThe increase in PPO activity may be due to activation of latent host enzyme, solubilization of host PPO, are due to de novo synthesis (Manibhushan Rao et al., 1988). The induced PPO might have involved in offering resistance in crossandra against wilt disease. Ramamoorthy and Samiyappan (2001) reported that treatment of chilli plants with P. fluorescens challenge inoculated with C. capsici increased PPO activity. Our results are similar with earlier workers that, the strains of B. subtilis and P. fluorescens were able to induce increased activities of PPO on challenge inoculation with A. alternata in watermelon (Uma Maheswari, 2009). Increased PO and PPO activity has been shown in a number of incompatible disease interactions involving plant pathogenic fungi, bacteria and viruses (Chen et al., 2009; Kandan et al., 2002; Saravanakumar et al., 2007). The application of B. subtilis and P. fluorescens, singly or in combination at green house and field conditions recorded effective in control of chilli Fusarium wilt as evidenced by enhanced activities of PO, PPO, PAL, β-1,3-glucanase, chitinase and phenolic involved in the synthesis of phytolaexins (Sundaramoorthy et al., 2012). The levels of PO and PPO in treated plants are associated in importing resistance in plants. Among the twenty two treatments with different combinations tested, the treatment of T16 recorded least per cent disease incidence (2.8%) with 96.5 per cent disease reduction over control indicating the role of PO and PPO in disease management. Saberi et al., (2021) reported the activity of polyphenol oxidase, and peroxidase in some wheat genotypes against take-all disease. Naz et al. (2021) also reported the induction of defense-related enzymes (PO & PPO) and enhanced disease resistance in maize against Fusarium verticillioides by seed treatment with Jacaranda mimosifolia. Taha, et al. (2021) also noticed the increased levels of peroxidase and polyphenol oxidase in tomato plants treated with soil Streptomyces isolates and induction of plant resistance against tomato mosaic virus. Liang et al. (2017). Observed increased activities of peroxidase and polyphenol oxidase enhance cassava resistance to mite Tetranychus urticae. Gopalakrishnan et al. (2021). Also got similar results with Streptomyces spp. and host-plant resistance induction against charcoal rot of sorghum. \r\n','Mallaiah B. and Muthamillan M. (2022). Effect of Bio Agents, Organic Amendments, Silver Nano Particles and Fungicide on Induction of Peroxidase and Poly Phenol Oxidase in Crossandra (Crossandra infundibuliformis) Plants Affected by Fusarium incarnatum (Desm.) Sacc. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 14(2): 1362-1367.'),(5064,'125','Optimization of Dodecanoic Acid oil-in-water microemulsion – Preparation and its Characterization','Ramya S., J. Auxcilia.*, D. Jeya Sundara Sharmila, C. Indu Rani and K. Hemaprabha','237 Optimization of Dodecanoic Acid oil-in-water microemulsion – Preparation and its Characterization Ramya S.pdf','',1,'The objective of the study was to optimize and characterize a dodecanoic acid oil-in-water microemulsion which can be used against Papaya Ring Spot Virus disease. Papaya Ring Spot Virus disease is one of the most destructive diseases which affects papaya production worldwide. The production of bioactive compounds has advanced significantly in recent years which are known for being environmentally safe, harmless to non-target organisms, and exhibiting high development potential. The GC-MS analysis indicated that dodecanoic acid a bioactive compound that was present in the wild genotype of papaya Vasconcellea candamarcensis (72.8%) and CO.7 (17%) a cultivated variety of papaya, but absent in the wild types and other cultivated varieties. Dodecanoic acid comes under saturated medium-chain fatty acid groups which are responsible for anti-viral activity in plants. The solubility of dodecanoic acid was analyzed by dissolving dodecanoic acid in ethanol, MCT oil, castor oil, and distilled water. In this study, Dodecanoic acid was encapsulated in medium-chain triglycerides (MCT oil), Tween 80(surfactant), span 20(surfactant), and Glycerol (co-surfactant) as emulsifiers under different concentrations and it is being characterized using FT-IR spectroscopy. These microemulsions prepared will be evaluated against Papaya Ring Spot Virus.','Dodecanoic acid, solubility, oil-in-water emulsion, MCT oil, FT-IR spectroscopy','This study on oil-in-water microemulsion was prepared from dodecanoic acid a bioactive compound that was present in wild genotypes of papaya, but present in trace amounts in cultivated types CO7 and absent in other cultivated types. These compounds are responsible for the anti-viral property in wild genotypes of papaya and they are also commercially available in the market and can be emulsified as microemulsions and used against papaya Ring spot virus. Though this bioactive compound is responsible for anti-viral properties it may show resistant, repellant, tolerant activity in plants as a defense mechanism and it can also be used against other plant viruses.','INTRODUCTION \r\nPapaya Ring Spot Virus was one of the most destructive diseases which was transmitted by aphids in a non-persistent manner (Kalleshwaraswamy et al., 2010). Papaya Ring Spot Virus (PRSV) is a member of the genus potyvirus and the family potyviridae which infects papaya (Ashwini et al., 2021; Chalak et al., 2017) and is transmitted through aphids (Thirugnanavel et al., 2015). Apart from the cultivated varieties, some wild-type relatives showed resistance activity against the Papaya Ring Spot Virus Disease. Studies on the assessment of plant essential oils against the aphid species Myzus persicae were also done (Pascual-Villalobos et al., 2019). Essential oil compounds (EOCs) are molecules that have well-documented antimicrobial and anti-pest activity (Fernández-Peña et al., 2019). Dodecanoic acid (Lauric acid) a bioactive compound present in the wild genotype of papaya belongs to a saturated fatty acid member of the sub-group of medium-chain fatty acid with a bright white, powdery solid which is insoluble in water and acts as a molecular entity capable of donating a hydron to an acceptor. Numerous studies have found that fatty acids (FAs) affect plant basal resistance to bacterial and fungal pathogens, but there have been few reports on antiviral agents (Zhao et al., 2017). Dodecanoic acid was responsible for the antiviral activity against the groundnut bud necrosis virus (Sangeetha et al., 2020). Dodecanoic acid was considered the most active inhibitor of the virus (Liang et al., 2021) without affecting cell viability and inhibited a late maturation stage in the replicative cycle of Junin virus (Bartolotta et al., 2001). Though these bioactive compounds are fatty acids there is a need that they should be emulsified for further application in plants. Therefore, microemulsion systems havea wide range of technological applications as microemulsion is a thermodynamically stable isotopic liquid mixture of oil, water, surfactant, and co-surfactant (Xavier-Junior et al., 2016). A series of oil in water (O/W) microemulsions were prepared at a constant temperature using the drop-by-drop method with Span80/Tween80 as the composite emulsifying system and Macol-52 as the oil phase (Chen et al., 2020). Thus, microemulsion requires high surfactant levels to provide an interfacial surface to completely microemulsify the compounds and also to provide formulation stability to temperature and storage. The three basic types of microemulsions are direct (oil-in-water), reversed (water-in-oil), and bicontinuous based on thermodynamic stability (Yadhav et al., 2018). In microemulsion systems, where two immiscible phases (water and oil) are present with a surfactant that forms a monolayer at the interface between oil and water. Studies on microemulsions showed that the use of microemulsions as a delivery platform improves the targeted action. The Fourier transform infrared (FT-IR) spectroscopy was used in this study to record the infrared spectrum of absorbance and transmission of the microemulsion.\r\n\r\nMATERIALS AND METHODS\r\nMaterials. This study was carried out in the Department of Fruit Science and the Department of Nanoscience & Technology, TNAU, Coimbatore to prepare and characterize dodecanoic acid microemulsion. Dodecanoic acid (Lauric acid) purchased from Sigma Aldrich and MCT oil purchased from Smy oils limited (medium-chain triglycerides) was used as the oil phase and tween 80 as a surfactant, span20 as a surfactant, glycerol as co-surfactant, and distilled water was used as the aqueous phase for the preparation of the microemulsions. Magnetic stirrer, magnetic beads (size-25mm), micropipette (100microlitre), beaker, and aluminium foils are used. The oil-in-water microemulsion was prepared in two phases oil phase and aqueous phase, Dodecanoic acid (10mg) + MCT oil (10ml) was used inthe oil phase and tween 80 (surfactant) + span 20 (surfactant) + glycerol at different concentrations are used in the aqueous phase. Using magnetic stirrer microemulsion was prepared, and FT-IR spectroscopy analysis.\r\nCHARACTERIZATION: FT-IR spectroscopy\r\nFT-IR spectroscopy of model FT/IR-6800 typeA was used to obtain the infrared spectrum and it was recorded between 4000-400 cm-1. The IR spectrum table and chart lists IR spectroscopy frequency ranges, the appearance of the vibration, and absorption for functional groups by frequency range and compound class (Sigma-Aldrich).\r\nRESULT AND DISCUSSION\r\nPapaya Ring Spot Virus resulted in severe yield loss and much more disease incidence (Premchand et al., 2021). Many plants naturally possess bioactive compounds to protect themselves from several diseases by enhancing the resistance capability of the plants and also these bioactive compounds from plants are non-phytotoxic and not harmful to the environment. The GC-MS analysis indicated that dodecanoic acid a bioactive compound that was present in the wild genotype of papayas such as Vasconcellea candamarcensis (72.8%) and CO.7 (17%) a cultivated variety of papaya, but absent in wild types and other cultivated varieties (Gohilapriya et al., 2021). Numerous studies have found that fatty acids (FAs) affect plant basal resistance to bacterial and fungal pathogens, but there have been few reports on antiviral agents (Zhao et al., 2017). Dodecanoic acid was considered to be the most active inhibitor of the virus (Liang et al., 2021) without affecting cell viability and inhibited a late maturation stage in the replicative cycle of Junin virus (Bartolotta et al., 2001). For preparing microemulsion the solubility of Dodecanoic acid was checked by dissolving it in ethanol, MCT oil, castor oil, and distilled water and it was dissolved in MCT oil, castor oil, and ethanol rather than distilled water, this shows the solubility of the dodecanoic acid (lauric acid). Dodecanoic acid was encapsulated in medium-chain triglycerides (MCT oil), tween 80, span 20, and glycerol as emulsifiers under different concentrations of oil-in-water microemulsion prepared. The result showed that from different concentrations prepared, dodecanoic acid + MCT oil in the oil phase and distilled water + span 20 + tween 80 + glycerol in the aqueous phase showed greater stability and lesser particle size, and the pH of the microemulsion under different concentrations of LA1, LA2, LA3, LA4 as 7.0, 7.2, 7.3, 7.0 respectively. From FT-IR spectroscopy the infrared spectrum of the functional group of microemulsion was found by frequency range and compound class. The above oil-in-water microemulsion prepared from bio-active compounds can be used against plant viruses, as they are responsible for anti-viral activity in plants due to the presence of ribosome-inactivating protein (Sangeetha et al., 2020). Further confirmation studies are required to study the stability of the preparation as well its efficiency against Papaya Ring Spot Virus (PRSV).\r\n','Ramya S., J. Auxcilia, D. Jeya Sundara Sharmila, C. Indu Rani and K. Hemaprabha (2022). Optimization of Dodecanoic Acid oil-in-water microemulsion – Preparation and its Characterization. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 14(2): 1368-1372.'),(5065,'125','Comprehensive Assessment of Variability, Heritability and Genetic Advance for Quantitative Characters in Bread Wheat (Triticum aestivum L.)','Shiva Mohan*, L.K. Gangwar, Pooran Chand, S.K. Singh, Nirdesh Kumar Chaudhary, Pushpanjali Kushawaha and Alamgir','238 Comprehensive Assessment of Variability, Heritability and Genetic Advance for Quantitative Characters in Bread Wheat _Triticum aestivum L._ Shiva Mohan.pdf','',1,'Assessment of the variability, heritability and genetic advance in the wheat genotypes (Triticum aestivum L.) is most significant role in the plant breeding because, analysis of these parameters in selected genotypes has not been made earlier so to use these genotypes for breeding programme it require a proper study about these characters. So all these requirement intrigued me to study about these parameters in respected genotypes. The present field experiment was conducted at the CRC of SVP University of Agriculture and Technology, Meerut (Uttar Pradesh) India during Rabi 2019-20 and 2020-21 for attempting of crossing programme in a line × tester (10 lines × 4 tester). The experimentation covering 54 genotype was arranged in Randomized Block Design with three replications. The assessment of mean sum square, mean and range performance value of parent and f1, coefficient of variation (PCV and GCV), heritability and genetic advance. Analysis of variance the \'F\' test indicated that mean squares for all the characters were highly significant for all traits under study. The mean and range performance of wheat genotype for twelve characters present very wide range of variation was observed. The percentage PCV was greater than the percentage of GCV for all of the characteristics studied in this study. In context high heritability coupled with high genetic advance (GA) as per cent of mean was apparent for the characters like grain yield per plant and number of productive tiller per plant, while high heritability is associated with moderate genetic advance for biological yield per plant. Moderate heritability is associated with moderate genetic advance (GA) for harvest index and moderate heritability is associated with low genetic advance for 1000 grain weight, length of peduncle, grain per spike, plant height and days to 50% flowering. In the present study, outcomes based on high variability and high heritability coupled with high genetic advance for quantitative traits can be used for further improvements of yields and its related traits, through ideal breeding scheme.','Variability, Heritability, Genetic Advance and Wheat','Analysis of variance the \'F\' test indicated that mean squares for all the characters were highly significant witnessed along with very wide range value for all character consequently there is a noble scope for enhancement of the genotypes. The percentage of Phenotypic coefficient of variation (PCV) was greater than the percentage of genotypic coefficient of variation (GCV) for all of the characteristics studied in this study. The degree of percentage phenotypic coefficient of variation was higher than percentage genotypic coefficient of variation for the traits revealed favourable interference of genotypes with the environment.High heritability associated with high genetic advance, revealed that variation was mostly due to additive gene effects and selection may be effective. High heritability linked with high genetic advance was witnessed for grain yield per plant and number of productive tiller per plant. The above result obtain in the study is revealed sufficient amount of variability present among all genotypes and parameter like high heritability coupled with high genetic advance observed in grain yield per plant, number of productive tiller per plant in selected genotypes it could be a better parameters to improve a superior genotypes.','INTRODUCTION\r\nWheat (Triticum aestivum L) refers to the genus Triticum of the Poaceae (Gramineae) family coining from the Levant region of the Near East and Ethiopian Highlands, but now cultivated worldwide. The three species of wheat explicit Triticum aestivum L2n = 42(bread wheat), Triticum durum 2n=28 (pasta wheat or macaroni wheat) and Triticum dicoccum 2n=28 (Emmer or Khapli wheat) grown on economic basis in the Indian landmass from primitive times with allocation of production in percent 95%, 4% and 1% respectively, are being cultivated in the country. It is a autogamous crop and grown yearly plant having height about 60 to 150 cm long. Inflorescence of wheat is erect terminal spike of spikelet’s called as ear or head of grains, flower clustered into 15-20 spikelet’s organised alternatively on rachis, each spikelet’s with 2-6 flowers out of which only 2-3 flowers are fertile and yield grains. Wheat grain be made up of 3 % germ, 17 % bran (outer layers of wheat grain) and 85 % mealy endosperm on dry matter basis (Prasad et al., 2000).\r\nMATERIALS AND METHODS\r\nThe present field experiment was conducted at the CRC of Sardar Vallabhbhi Patel University of Agriculture and Technology, Meerut (Uttar Pradesh) India during Rabi 2019-20 and 2020-21 for attempting of crossing programme in a line × tester (10 lines × 4 tester). The testing comprising 54 genotype was laid out in Randomized Block Design with three replications. Experimental material constituted of 54 wheat genotypes (Table 1). The spacing between rows was 22.5 cm, respectively maintained by thinning. Five economical plants from each plot were randomly selected for recording observations for all the quantitative characters excluding days to flowering and days to maturity which were recorded on the experimental site basis. The Data were recorded for twelve characters namely, days to 50% flowering (DF), days to maturity (DM), plant height per plant cm (PH), number of productive tillers per plant (PT), length of peduncle per plant cm (LP), spike length cm (SL), spikelets per spike (SS), number of grains per spike (GS), 1000 grain weight g (GW), biological yield per plant g (BY), harvest index % (HI) and grain yield per plant g (GY). The current studies that have discussed to work out analysis of variance Panse and Sukhatme (1967), estimate of genetic variability, heritability Kempthorne and Curnow (1961) and genetic advance Johnson et al. (1955).\r\nRESULTS AND DISCUSSION\r\nThe estimate of mean sum square, mean and range performance value of parent and f1, coefficient of variation (PCV and GCV), heritability and genetic advance. The significance of variance in treatments for different characters was shown by F test at 5% and 1% level of probability. The observed value of ‘F’ is compared with the table value ‘F’ for the error and treatment degree of freedom. \r\nIf the observed value of ‘F’ is more than the value of table. It is considered to be significant and vice-versa. The mean sum of square value revealed in Table 2 Analysis of variance the \'F\' test indicated that mean squares for all the characters were highly significant for all traits under study. These results are in accordance with report of Arya et al. (2018); Thapa et al. (2019); Prasad et al. (2021).\r\nThe mean and range performance of wheat genotype for twelve characters is presented in Table 3 Very wide range of variation in mean performance of genotypes was observed for all the 12 characters under study. A thorough study range value is observed days to 50% flowering (86.74-105.17), days to maturity (130.53-141.98), plant height per plant (85.33-104.98), number of productive tillers per plant (3.80-8.60), length of peduncle per plant (30.53-40.60), spike length (8.83-11.50), spikelets per spike (16.50-20.40), number of grains per spike (46.40-62.54), 1000 grain weight (31.37-47.33), biological yield per plant (29.67-40.67), harvest index (26.60-39.76) and grain yield per plant (8.33-15.50).\r\nThe percentage of Phenotypic coefficient of variation (PCV) was greater than the percentage of genotypic coefficient of variation (GCV) for all of the characteristics studied in this study. The phenotypic and genotypic coefficients of variation can be used to analyze and relate the kind and amount of variability present in breeding materials for various characteristics. The estimates of coefficient of variation for the twelve characters under study have been presented in Table 4. In the present study moderate phenotypic and genotypic coefficient of variation (PCV and GCV) was found for number of productive tiller per plant, grain yield per plant and moderate PCV found for harvest index. Similar results have also been reported by Bhushan et al. (2012); Yadawad et al. (2015). Low phenotypic coefficient of variation was found for harvest index while, all the remaining character found low PCV and GCV for spike length, biological yield per plant, 1000 grain weight, length of peduncle, grains per spike, plant height per plant, spikelet’s per spike, days to 50 % flowering and days to maturity. The magnitude of phenotypic coefficient of variation was higher than genotypic coefficient of variation for the characters revealed higher degree of interaction of genotypes with the environment. These findings are in close agreement with the findings of earlier workers Kumar et al. (2014); Devesh et al. (2018); Imran et al. (2018); Singh et al. (2020).\r\nThe estimation of heritability and genetic advance values are presented in Table 4. The values for heritability estimates in broad sense were observed ranging from 28.74 % for the trait spikelet’s per spike to 87.21% for grain yield per plant. Broad sense heritability estimates can be categorized as low (<40%), moderate (40-60%) and high (>60%). In present study, highest values for heritability were estimated for grain yield per plant (87.21%) followed by number of productive tiller per plant (82.84%), biological yield per plant (62.95%) and spike length (61.22%). Similar results have also been reported by Yadav et al. (2011); Bhushan et al. (2012); Kumar et al. (2014); Arya et al. (2018); Singh et al. (2020; Thapa et al. (2019); Porte et al. (2020); Yadav et al. (2021). Moderate value of heritability were observed for days to 50 % flowering (58.84%), harvest index (54.16%), plant height per plant (49.23%), 1000 grain weight (46.14%), length of peduncle (44.97%), grain per spike (44.49%) and days to maturity (44.11%). Similar results were also found by Singh et al. (2010) and the remaining traits such as spikelets per spike (28.74%) were observed to possess lower estimates of heritability.\r\nThe estimates for genetic advance as a percent of means were observed ranging from 2.01 for days to maturity to 26.65 for grain yield per plant. Genetic advance as a percent of mean can be categorized into 3 groups viz., low (<10%), moderate (10-20%) and high (>20%). Accordingly, high estimates of genetic advance as a percent of means were observed for grain yield per plant (26.65%) followed by number of productive tiller per plant (25.90%). Similar results were also found by Arya et al. (2018) for grain yield per plant and Thapa et al. (2019) for number of productive tiller per plant whereas, moderate estimates of genetic advance as a percent of means were observed for harvest index (12.50%), spike length (11.73%), biological yield per plant (10.68%). Similar results were also found by Kumar et al. (2014) for harvest index, while all the remaining traits like 1000 grain weight (8.26%), length of peduncle (6.96%), grain per spike (6.42%), plant height per plant (5.94%), days to 50 % flowering (4.50%), spikelets per spike (4.39%) and days to maturity (2.01%) recorded the low estimates of genetic advance as percent of mean. Similar results were also found by Singh et al. (2010) for grain per spike and length of peduncle and Singh et al. (2020) for 1000 grain weight, length of peduncle.\r\nIn context beyond high heritability coupled with high genetic advance as per cent of mean was observed for the characters like grain yield per plant and number of productive tiller per plant, while high heritability is associated with moderate genetic advance for biological yield per plant. Almost similar findings were also reported by Yadav et al. (2011); Kumar et al. (2014); Arya et al. (2018); Yadav et al. (2021). Moderate heritability is associated with moderate genetic advance (GA) for harvest index and Moderate heritability is associated with low genetic advance for 1000 grain weight, length of peduncle, grain per spike, plant height and days to 50% flowering. \r\n','Shiva Mohan, L.K. Gangwar, Pooran Chand, S.K. Singh, Nirdesh Kumar Chaudhary, Pushpanjali Kushawaha and Alamgir (2022). Comprehensive Assesment of Variability, Heritability and Genetic Advance for Quantitative Characters in Bread Wheat (Triticum aestivum L.). Biological Forum – An International Journal, 14(2): 1373-1376.');
INSERT INTO `pdf_upload` VALUES (5066,'125','Assessment of Relationships between Rainfall and Canal Water for Maximization of Yield of Major Crops under Telugu Ganga Project command in Andhra Pradesh','Murali Krishna Ch*, Ramana M.V., Ramana Murhy B., Sarala N.V. and Hema Kumar H.V.','239 Assessment of Relationships between Rainfall and Canal Water for Maximization of Yield of Major Crops under Telugu Ganga Project command in Andhra Pradesh Murali Krishna Ch.pdf','',1,'Among different inputs of agriculture, water is the most important input for profitable agriculture. A study was conducted to assess the influence of canal water supplied to paddy, groundnut and other crops grown in four districts under the Telugu Ganga Project command area in Andhra Pradesh. In the present paper, an assessment of the variability in the data and relationships of rainfall (mm) received, canal water (Mcum) supplied and the yield (kg/ha) of major crops viz., paddy, groundnut, sugarcane, sorghum and cotton attained under the TGP command area during 1997 to 2018 are discussed. Linear and quadratic regression models of yield were calibrated to predict the yield through rainfall received and canal water supplied in different years. The models were assessed based on the coefficient of determination (R2) and standard error of mean (SEM) of the predicted yield over years. The rainfall received in different years did not significantly influence the yield of crops as indicated by the non-significant R2 values. However, canal water released in different years was found to significantly influence the yield of paddy, groundnut, cotton and sugarcane. The quadratic regression models gave higher and significant values of R2 compared to linear regression models of all crops. A grouping of 22 years data divided into 3 groups was made based on the mean and standard deviation (SD) of rainfall, canal water and yield of crops viz., observations which are (i) less than (Mean – SD); (ii) lying between (Mean – SD) to (Mean + SD); and (iii) more than (Mean + SD) limits. Based on the study, the quadratic regression model gave R2 value of 0.772** for paddy, 0.600** for groundnut, 0.525** for sugarcane, 0.146 for sorghum and 0.264* for cotton, compared to 0.681**, 0.581**, 0.514**, 0.146 and 0.263* based on linear model for the 5 crops respectively. Maximum crop yield was found to occur in 3rd group. Maximum paddy yield of 5440 kg/ha was attained at mean canal water release of 1768.3 Mcum and occurrence of mean rainfall of 1151 mm during 4 years (2010, 2008, 2005, 2006), while groundnut yield of 2195 kg/ha was attained at canal water of 1822.6 Mcum and rainfall of 1041 mm during 4 years (2009, 2006, 2008, 2010). Similar results were obtained for other crops studied under the TGP command area. The canal water and rainfall corresponding to the highest mean yield attained in a group could be considered as optimum for maximizing the returns from a crop. This will also help in the efficient utilization of water resources with regard to the quantity and frequency of canal water to be provided for irrigation of crops. Since the canal water under TGP command is assured, the farmers could efficiently utilize the canal water by growing less water requiring crops and derive maximum returns under semi-arid conditions in Andhra Pradesh. ','Canal water, Rainfall, Crop yield, Regression and Optimization','A study was conducted to assess the variability and relationships of rainfall (mm) received, canal water (Mcum) supplied and the yield (kg/ha) of major crops viz., paddy, groundnut, sugarcane, sorghum and cotton attained under the Telugu Ganga Project (TGP) command area in Andhra Pradesh during 22 years from 1997 to 2018. Linear and quadratic regression models of yield were calibrated to predict the yield through rainfall received and canal water supplied in different years. The models were assessed based on the coefficient of determination (R2) and standard error of mean (SEM) of the predicted yield over years. The rainfall received in different years was found to have no significant effect on the yield of all the 5 crops, while the canal water was found to significantly influence the yield of paddy, groundnut, cotton and sugarcane. The quadratic regression models gave higher and significant values of R2 compared to linear regression models of all crops. The quadratic model gave R2 value of 0.772** for paddy, 0.600** for groundnut, 0.525** for sugarcane, 0.146 for sorghum and 0.264* for cotton, while the linear model gave 0.681**, 0.581**, 0.514**, 0.146 and 0.263* for the 5 crops respectively. The quadratic models through canal water have provided a lower SEM value compared to the linear model for all crops. The SEM was 524.6 kg/ha for paddy, 232.1 kg/ha for groundnut, 57.1 q/ha for sugarcane, 163.7 kg/ha for sorghum and 101.9 kg/ha for cotton under the quadratic regression model, while it was 604.1 kg/ha for paddy, 231.7 kg/ha for groundnut, 56.3 q/ha for sugarcane, 159.6 kg/ha for sorghum and 99.3 kg/ha for cotton under the linear regression model. \r\nA grouping of 22 years into 3 groups was made based on the mean and standard deviation (SD) of rainfall, canal water and yield of crops viz., observations which are (i) less than (Mean – SD); (ii) lying between (Mean – SD) to (Mean + SD); and (iii) more than (Mean + SD) limits. Maximum yield of crops was found to occur in the 3rd group. Maximum paddy yield of 5440 kg/ha was attained at mean canal water release of 1768.3 Mcum and occurrence of mean rainfall of 1151 mm during 4 years (2010, 2008, 2005, 2006), while groundnut yield of 2195 kg/ha was attained at canal water of 1822.6 Mcum and rainfall of 1041 mm during 4 years (2009, 2006, 2008, 2010). Maximum sugarcane yield of 934 q/ha was attained at mean canal water release of 1950.3 Mcum and occurrence of mean rainfall of 835 mm during 2 years (2006, 2018), while sorghum yield of 1488 kg/ha was attained at canal water of 1950.3 Mcum and rainfall of 835 mm during 4 years (2005, 2000, 2006, 2018), and cotton yield of 1356 kg/ha was attained at canal water of 1893.5 Mcum and rainfall of 857 mm during 3 years (2006, 2013, 2018). The canal water and rainfall corresponding to the highest mean yield attained in a group could be considered as optimum for attaining maximum yield of a crop. This will help in the efficient utilization of water resources with regard to the quantity and frequency of canal water to be provided for irrigation of crops. Since the canal water under TGP command is assured, the farmers could efficiently utilize the canal water by growing less water requiring and profitable short duration crops and derive maximum benefit of the available improved agricultural technologies.\r\n','INTRODUCTION\r\nIndia is a developing country for irrigation infrastructure. Many efforts are regularly made for bringing the rain fed area into irrigated agriculture for sustainable food production. Irrigation projects have to be assessed for irrigation potential utilisation on a continuous basis. Crop area estimation at mandal level would require a replacement with suitable technology implementation. In Andhra Pradesh, the Telugu Ganga irrigation project is an inter-state project formulated to irrigate about 5.75 lakh acres in the drought prone areas of Rayalaseema region comprising of Chittoor, Kadapa, Kurnool and uplands of Nellore by utilising 29 TMC of water from Krishna flood flows, and 30 TMC of water from Pennar river flood flows. The main objective of water resources department in Andhra Pradesh is to create irrigation potential under drought prone areas, upland areas and maintain all projects for enhancing the productivity of different species per unit of water. About 70% of population of Andhra Pradesh is depending on agriculture. It is necessary to have a continuous monitoring on the performance of different irrigation systems. In view of the importance of irrigated agriculture prevailing in Andhra Pradesh, the performance evaluation of irrigation systems for crop area, availability of water and its sufficiency would help in making suitable interventions and enabling water management plans, apart from improving the water resources. The present study is conducted with the objective of evolving a suitable crop water allocation pattern for optimal use of canal water for growing multiple crops.\r\nCorrelation analysis could be carried out between variables to assess the type of relationship viz., positive or negative relationship, apart from the magnitude of relationship and its significance over a period of timeas described by Gomez and Gomez (1984). The regression models for prediction of yield and optimization of variables for maximizing the yield of crops over a period of time. The author has screened different regression models for selection of optimal variable subsets for maximizing the yield based on different models. Maruthi Sankar (1986) has discussed about the usefulness of R2-adequacy and Residual Mean Square Error criteria for identifying an efficient regression model for prediction and optimization of variables for maximizing the yield.\r\nIn order to efficiently utilize the canal water for growing different crops, we should always avoid a mismatch between supply and demand of water required for crops. Rao and Rajput (2006) studied about the mismatch that occurred in the supply and demand of water for crops grown under the Nagarjuna Sagar Left Canal in Andhra Pradesh. The authors gave strategies for overcoming the mismatch issues possibly occur when the canal water is released for crops. Ahmed (2002) discussed about the need of conjunctive use of both ground water and surface water for attaining maximum returns from crops under any soil and climatic situation. The author examined different aspects of ground water and surface water available under the Burdekin delta area. He has described about the efficient use of water from these two sources for managing the crops in an efficient manner. A similar study was conducted by Mahfuzur et al. (2014) on the management of water under the Ganga Basin. The authors have compared different strategies for optimal utilization of water by making an efficient comparison of ground water and surface water available under the Ganga Basin project. \r\nIn order to irrigate crops, a detailed assessment of performance of irrigation has to be made before recommending to farmers for large scale adoption. Avil Kumar et al. (2014) assessed the irrigation performance under the Left Bank canal of the Nagarjuna Sagar project. The authors have made an efficient assessment of the irrigation requirement by adopting the remote sensing and Geographic Information System tools in their study. Babu et al. (2009) have also studied on making improvements to the aspects of water use efficiency for crops under the Nagarjuna Sagar canal command area. The authors have provided optimal strategies for efficient use of water for irrigation purpose for different crops grown under the command area. In a study by Chandra (1996), the author has optimized the canal water requirement under the Gambhiri irrigation system in Rajasthan. The optimal values of canal water would be useful for irrigating crops for attaining maximum productivity and profitability of crops. Mahtsente and Birhanu (2015) made a detailed study on two important aspects of water demand analysis and irrigation water requirement for growing some leading crops under the Holetta catchment in Awash sub-basin in Ethiopia. The authors have developed efficient strategies for optimal irrigation water requirement for different crops for maximizing the productivity and profitability of crops grown in Ethiopia.\r\nA three-step modeling approach for comprehensive analysis of planning problem involving integrated use of surface and groundwater in irrigation for a Bagmati river basin in Nepal as discussed by Onta et al. (1991). The use of LP model for irrigation water management revealed that about 89.4% of available channel water was utilized during winter season. Out of this, 55.9% and 18.5% were allocated for wheat and barley respectively. Remaining 25.6% of channel water was allocated for cotton and watermelon. Since there was enough channel water supplies, only 10.6% of groundwater was utilized. In the absence of any constraint on conjunctive water use, there was no significant groundwater exploitation, and 100% channel water was efficiently utilized, which is much cheaper than groundwater. Based on LP analysis, out of total available channel water, 43.2% was allocated to cotton, which was most profitable compared to other crops and their activities, followed by 38.3%, 9.5% and 9% for different crop activities including watermelon, barley and wheat respectively as described by Malekian et al. (2012). Mohan et al. (1998) developed a stochastic linear programming model for assessing the availability and utilization of water for crops. The model considers randomness of rainfall, ground water and other water resources and could be used for irrigation planning and optimization of water resources in an efficient manner. In a study by James et al. (1992), the authors have used dynamic programming technique for assessing and improving the strategies of irrigation for maize crop. The optimal schedules developed were found to be useful for attaining maximum yield and monetary returns from maize compared to other crops. The dynamic programming model would be useful for assessing the effects of different parameters of rainfall, canal water, ground water and any other type of irrigation for provided for crops.\r\nMATERIALS AND METHODS\r\nIn order to make an evaluation of the crop water allocation pattern for optimal use of canal water for growing different crops under the TGP command area would be the conjunctive use of both surface and groundwater. This is based on a coordinated and harmonious development of these two sources of irrigation for maximizing the net returns without causing any adverse effect on the land and aquifer environment. The important aspect of conjunctive water use planning is to find out (i) optimal area under different crops depending on both the canal and groundwater availability, and (ii) optimal allocation of canal and groundwater resources for keeping the water table within the permissible limits.\r\nAssessment of relationship between parameters. The descriptive statistics of yield attained by major crops, rainfall received and canal water released to the crops in rabi season during 22 years of the study period were determined. An assessment of the relationships between different parameters has been made and the relationship were tested based on t-test. Linear and quadratic regression models of yield through rainfall and canal water were developed for prediction of yield through two major water resources of rainfall and canal water. The valid Statistical grouping of years was made for identifying the maximum yield of paddy, groundnut, sugarcane, sorghum and cotton crops attained at optimum values of rainfall and canal water under the TGP command area during 1997 to 2019. Relationships between (i) yield of crops and rainfall; and (ii) yield of crops and canal irrigation could be determined over a period of time (Gomez and Gomez 1984). The magnitude and direction (positive or negative) of the relationship between variables could be assessed. \r\nRegression models for prediction of yield. Regression models could be calibrated for predicting the yield through different independent variables (Draper and Smith 1998). In a simple regression model, only two variables are considered, where one variable would represent the ‘cause’ and other would represent the ‘effect’. The variable representing ‘cause’ is known as ‘independent variable’ (denoted as ‘X’) and variable representing the ‘effect’ is known as ‘dependent variable’ (denoted as ‘Y’). A regression model could be assessed based on coefficient of determination (R2). The coefficient of determination indicates about variation in ‘Y’ explained by ‘X’ and could be tested based on Snedecor’s F-test. The linear regression model calibrated for predicting the yield (Y) of a crop through canal water (CW) could be given as \r\n Y = α + β (CW) (1)\r\nHere α is intercept and β is slope of canal water. The slope indicates about the rate of change in yield for an unit change in canal water. The quadratic regression model for predicting yield as a function of linear and quadratic terms of canal water (CW) could be given as\r\n Y = α + β1 (CW) + β2 (CW)2 (2)\r\nHere α is intercept; β1and β2 are slopes of linear and quadratic terms of canal water respectively. The linear and quadratic regression models are assessed based on coefficient of determination (R2) along with SEM derived under each model (Maruthi Sankar, 1986). \r\nGrouping of years for optimization of rainfall and canal water for maximum yield. In order to identify an optimum quantity of rainfall and canal water for attaining maximum yield of crops, grouping of canal water released (Mcum), rainfall (mm) received and crop yield attained (kg/ha) into 3 groups could be made by using mean and standard deviation (SD) of the parameters over 22 years during 1997 to 2018. The 3 valid groups were formed by grouping the years based on the statistical criteria viz., observations which are (i) less than (Mean – SD); (ii) lying between (Mean – SD) to (Mean + SD); and (iii) more than (Mean + SD) limits. Mean and SD of observations of yield, canal water and rainfall could be determined in each group. Based on a comparison of mean yield of each group, maximum yield could be identified. The canal water and rainfall corresponding to the highest mean yield attained in a group could be considered as optimum for attaining maximum yield of a crop in the TGP command area. The 3 groups of years have to be made separately for each crop and mean and SD of canal water, rainfall and yield have to be derived. We could easily identify the optimum canal water and rainfall for attaining the maximum yield of a crop grown in the TGP command area during the study period. The optimum canal water could be allocated so that farmers could attain maximum yield of crops under the TGP command area. \r\nRESULTS AND DISCUSSION\r\nYield of major crops attained during 1997. The crop water allocation pattern has been evolved for an optimal use of canal water for attaining maximum yield of crops in the Telugu Ganga Project. Major crops grown in the TGP command area were selected based on the extent of area. The crops selected are paddy, groundnut, sugarcane, sorghum, cotton, chilies, sunflower, black gram, pearl millet and green gram grown during 1997 and 2018. The yield of crops attained in each district and also pooled over the entire TGP command during 1997 are given in Table 1. During 1997, paddy yield ranged from 2450 to 3100 kg/ha with mean yield of 2798kg/ha, while groundnut yield ranged from 785 to 2351 kg/ha with mean yield of 1230 kg/ha. Sugarcane yield ranged from 0 to 757q/ha with mean yield of 733 q/ha, while sorghum yield ranged from 0 to 1350 kg/ha with mean yield of 1200 kg/ha. Cotton yield ranged from 0 to 1150 kg/ha with mean yield of 1150 kg/ha, while chilies yield ranged from 0 to 155 q/ha with mean yield of 155 q/ha. Sunflower yield ranged from 0 to 950 kg/ha with mean yield of 950 kg/ha, while black gram yield ranged from 575 to 950 kg/ha with mean yield of 855 kg/ha. Pearl millet yield ranged from 0 to 1732 kg/ha with mean yield of 1732 kg/ha, while green gram yield ranged from 0 to 602 kg/ha with mean yield of 602 kg/ha.\r\nYield of crops attained during 2018. The yield of crops attained in each district and also pooled over the entire TGP command during 2018 are given in Table 2. During 2018, paddy yield ranged from 3282 to 4562 kg/ha with mean yield of 3953 kg/ha, while groundnut yield ranged from 989 to 2928 kg/ha with mean yield of 1530 kg/ha. Sugarcane yield ranged from 0 to 995 q/ha with mean yield of 943 q/ha, while sorghum yield ranged from 0 to 1725 kg/ha with mean yield of 1517 kg/ha. Cotton yield ranged from 0 to 1358 kg/ha with mean yield of 1358 kg/ha, while chillies yield ranged from 0 to 167 q/ha with mean yield of 167 q/ha. Sunflower yield ranged from 0 to 1136 kg/ha with mean yield of 1136 kg/ha, while black gram yield ranged from 0 to 1062 kg/ha with mean yield of 855 kg/ha. Pearl millet yield ranged from 0 to 2475 kg/ha with mean yield of 2475 kg/ha, while green gram yield ranged from 0 to 655 kg/ha with mean yield of 655 kg/ha. Based on the pooled data of crops over all districts in the TGP command, a comparison of yields attained by different crops is made in Fig. 2 for 1997 and 2018. It is observed that the yields of all crops attained during 2018 were significantly higher compared to the yields attained during 1997. The pooled analysis indicated that during 2018, mean paddy yield of 3953 kg/ha was attained, followed by pearl millet with 2475 kg/ha, groundnut with 1530 kg/ha, sorghum with 1517 kg/ha, cotton with 1358 kg/ha, sunflower with 1136 kg/ha, black gram with 855 kg/ha and green gram with 655 kg/ha. In case of sugarcane, mean yield of 943 q/ha was attained, while in case of chillies, mean yield of 167 q/ha was attained in the entire TGP command area.\r\nDescriptive statistics of rainfall, canal water and yield of crops over years. The details of rainfall (mm) received, canal water (Mcum) supplied and yield (kg/ha) of paddy, groundnut, sugarcane, sorghum and cotton crops attained under the TGP command area for 22 years during 1997 to 2018 are given in Table 3. The rainfall received in different years ranged from 582 mm (2016) to 1387 mm (2010) with mean of 913 mm (CV of 20.1%) during the study period. The canal water released in different years ranged from 58.5 Mcum (2003) to 2201.4 Mcum (2008) with mean of 1065.7 Mcum (CV of 69.8%) over years. The paddy yield attained ranged from 2578 kg/ha to 5512 kg/ha with mean of 4244 kg/ha (CV of 24.6%), while groundnut yield ranged from 1159 kg/ha to 2268 kg/ha with mean of 1687 kg/ha (CV of 20.7%) over years. The sugarcane yield attained ranged from 678 q/ha to 943 q/ha with mean of 834 q/ha (CV of 9.5%), while sorghum yield ranged from 852 kg/ha to 1517 kg/ha with mean of 1182 kg/ha (CV of 14.3%) over years. The skewness and kurtosis were found to be positive for rainfall received, while they were negative for canal water released over years. In case of crop yield attained over years, the skewness and kurtosis were negative in paddy and sugarcane, while they were positive in sorghum. The skewness was positive, while kurtosis was negative in case of groundnut and cotton crops. The skewness was found to be close to zero indicating that different parameters were symmetric, while the kurtosis was less than 3 indicating that the distribution was platy-kurtic.\r\nRelationship of yield of crops with rainfall and canal water in TGP command. The details of rainfall, canal water and yield of major crops in the entire TGP command area are shown in Fig. 3 and Fig. 4. The estimates of correlation of yield of crops attained with rainfall received and canal water released during 1997 to 2018 are given in Table 4. There was a significant correlation of 0.825** between yield of paddy with canal water released in different years. Similarly, pod yield of groundnut was found to have a significant correlation of 0.762** and sugarcane yield had a significant correlation of 0.717** with canal water released during different years. Cotton yield was found to have a significant correlation of 0.513**, while sorghum yield had no significant correlation with canal water released over years. The correlation between rainfall received and yield of crops attained was found to be non-significant during the 22 years. Among different crops, the yield of paddy was found to significantly increase over years as indicated by a positive correlation of 0.490**. Although there was a positive correlation of 0.431 for yield of sugarcane, 0.303 for yield of groundnut, 0.339 for yield of cotton and 0.026 for yield of sorghum with years, the relationships were found to be non-significant. Rao and Rajput (2009) observed significant relationships among different parameters considered in their decision support system study for managing the water efficiently under different canal command areas. Similarly, while developing optimal reservoir system for efficient levels of irrigation for different crops, Vedula and Mujumdar (1992) found significant relationships among different parameters of available canal water, water requirement of different crops, rainfall and other parameters in their study.\r\nRegression models for prediction of yield of crops through rainfall and canal water \r\nRegression models of yield through rainfall. In order to assess the effects of rainfall received and canal water released on yield of crops attained in different years, two regression models viz., linear and quadratic models were calibrated using the data of 22 years during 1997 to 2018. The regression coefficients of rainfall on yield under the two models of paddy, groundnut, sugarcane, sorghum and cotton crops, along with coefficient of determination (R2) and standard error of mean (SEM) of predicted yield are given in Table 5. The rainfall received in different years did not significantly influence the yield of crops as indicated by the non-significant values of coefficient of determination determined for different crops. The R2 based on the quadratic model was found to be 0.138 for rice, 0.166 for groundnut, 0.153 for sugarcane, 0.004 for sorghum and 0.098 for cotton compared to 0.064, 0.149, 0.143, 0.001 and 0.005 for the respective crops under the linear model. Based on linear model of rainfall, the SEM of predicted yield was found to be 1035.6 kg/ha for paddy, 330.0 kg/ha for groundnut, 74.8 q/ha for sugarcane, 172.6 kg/ha for sorghum and 115.4 kg/ha for cotton and under the linear model, while it was 1019.3, 335.2, 76.2 q/ha, 176.8 and 112.7 kg/ha for the respective crops under the quadratic model. Rao and Rajput (2008) observed a similar effect of rainfall received on the performance of crops grown under canal command areas. \r\nRegression models of yield through canal water. The canal water released in different years was found to significantly influence the yield of paddy, groundnut, cotton and sugarcane and has no significant influence on sorghum during the study period. The regression coefficients of canal water on yield under the linear and quadratic regression models of paddy, groundnut, sugarcane, sorghum and cotton crops, along with coefficient of determination (R2) and standard error of mean (SEM) of predicted yield are given in Table 5. The quadratic regression models of yield through canal water supplied gave higher and significant values of R2 compared to the linear regression models for all crops. The quadratic model gave R2 value of 0.772** for paddy, 0.600** for groundnut, 0.525** for sugarcane, 0.146 for sorghum and 0.264* for cotton, while the linear model gave 0.681**, 0.581**, 0.514**, 0.146 and 0.263* for the 5 crops respectively. The quadratic models through canal water have provided a lower SEM value compared to the linear model for all crops. The SEM was 524.6 kg/ha for paddy, 232.1 kg/ha for groundnut, 57.1 q/ha for sugarcane, 163.7 kg/ha for sorghum and 101.9 kg/ha for cotton under the quadratic regression model, while it was 604.1 kg/ha for paddy, 231.7 kg/ha for groundnut, 56.3 q/ha for sugarcane, 159.6 kg/ha for sorghum and 99.3 kg/ha for cotton under the linear regression model. Thus the regression models of yield through canal water indicated a significant increase in the yield of paddy and groundnut under both linear and quadratic models, and yield of sugarcane and cotton under the linear model in the TGP command over years during the study period. There was no significant influence of canal water released on the yield of sorghum under both linear and quadratic regression models as indicated by the non-significant values of R2 and regression coefficients of canal water. Rao and Rajput (2008) found significant relationship of the rainfall received, effective rainfall with the performance of crops grown under the canal command areas in their study. The authors found that the relationships were useful for developing models for predicting yield of crops through canal water, rainfall and other parameters in the canal command areas. \r\nRegression models of yield through rainfall and canal water. The regression coefficients of rainfall and canal water on yield under the linear and quadratic regression models of paddy, groundnut, sugarcane, sorghum and cotton crops, along with coefficient of determination (R2) and standard error of mean (SEM) of predicted yield are given in Table 5. Based on the regression models of yield through both rainfall received and canal water supplied, higher and significant coefficient of determination was found under the quadratic regression model with R2 of 0.793** for rice, followed by 0.678** for groundnut, 0.670** for sugarcane, 0.331* for cotton and 0.148 for sorghum. Compared to this, the linear regression model gave R2 of 0.697** for rice, followed by 0.654** for groundnut, 0.587** for sugarcane, 0.286* for cotton and 0.148 for sorghum. The SEM was found to be 527.9 kg/ha for rice, 220.3 kg/ha for groundnut, 172.8 kg/ha for sorghum and 102.7 kg/ha for cotton, while it was 50.4 q/ha for sugarcane under the quadratic model. Compared to this, the linear model gave SEM of 604.3 kg/ha for paddy, 215.9 kg/ha for groundnut, 163.5 kg/ha for sorghum, 100.3 kg/ha for cotton and 53.3 q/ha for sugarcane. The effect of canal water was found to be significant in influencing the yield of all crops except sorghum based on both linear and quadratic models calibrated for predicting yield of crops through rainfall received and canal water supplied during the study period. The results are in agreement with the findings of Bhavani et al. (2017) who assessed the performance of crops based on climate variability in Telangana and Andhra Pradesh states. Rao and Rajput (2006) have also observed lower SEM values, while assessing the deviations of supply and demand of canal water under Nagarjuna Sagar Left Canal. Our results are in agreement with the findings made by Zhiming et al. (2007) who developed optimal water requirements and irrigation scheduling based on a GIS and crop water model under the Beijing-Tianjin-Hebei region in China. The authors have observed significant relationships of the crop water requirement with rainfall, available ground water and surface water and other factors.\r\n\r\nOptimal allocation of water for attaining maximum yield of crops. In order to determine the optimum water requirement for attaining maximum yield of crops using the rainfall received and canal water supplied in different years, a grouping of rainfall (mm) received and canal water (Mcum) released during 1997 to 2018 and the corresponding yield of crops attained into 3 statistical groups was made using the mean and standard deviation (SD) of the three parameters over years. The group means were derived using the observations which were occurring under (i) less than (Mean – SD); (ii) (Mean – SD) to (Mean + SD); and (iii) more than (Mean + SD) groups. The groups indicated that maximum mean canal water supplied occurred in 3rd group, followed by 2nd group and 1st group for all the 5 crops. Maximum mean rainfall occurred in 3rd group for paddy and groundnut, while it occurred in the 2nd group for sugarcane and cotton, and 1st group for sorghum. The details of number of years occurred, mean rainfall received, canal water supplied and yield of crops attained in each group are given in Table 6. \r\nMaximum paddy yield of 5440 kg/ha was attained at mean canal water release of 1768.3 Mcum and occurrence of mean rainfall of 1151 mm during 4 years (2010, 2008, 2005, 2006) under 3rd group viz., observations which are more than (Mean + SD) limit. In case of groundnut, maximum pod yield of 2195 kg/ha was attained at mean canal water release of 1822.6 Mcum and occurrence of mean rainfall of 1041 mm during 4 years (2009, 2006, 2008, 2010) under the 3rd group viz., observations which are more than (Mean + SD) limit. Maximum sugarcane yield of 934 q/ha was attained at a mean canal water release of 1950.3 Mcum and occurrence of mean rainfall of 835 mm during 2 years (2006, 2018) under the 3rd group viz., observations which are more than (Mean + SD) limit. In case of sorghum, maximum yield of 1488 kg/ha was attained at a mean canal water release of 1950.3Mcum and occurrence of mean rainfall of 835 mm during4 years (2005, 2000, 2006, 2018) under 3rd group viz., observations which are more than (Mean + SD) limit. In case of cotton, maximum yield of 1356 kg/ha was attained at a mean canal water release of 1893.5 Mcum and occurrence of mean rainfall of 857 mm during 3 years (2006, 2013, 2018) under the 3rd group viz., observations which are more than (Mean + SD) limit. Our results are in agreement with the findings made by Raju and Kumar (2000) who developed strategies for optimum irrigation requirement for different crops for attaining maximum returns under Sriram Sagar project. \r\n\r\n\r\nThe optimum values of rainfall received and canal water released indicated that the five crops of paddy, groundnut, sugarcane, sorghum and cotton crops could be grown for attaining maximum yield of the crops in different districts under the entire TGP command area. The grouping of years based on mean and standard deviation over years would take care of the homogeneity of years with respect to rainfall received and the canal water released in the respective years occurring under a group. This will help the policy makers and planners for efficient management of water resources for satisfying the water requirement and enhancement of the productivity of crops, which will ultimately improve the monetary returns and livelihood of farmers. Similarly, the results are in agreement with the findings made by Ganesh et al. (2014); Mehanuddin et al. (2018) who measured the water requirement and made efficient irrigation scheduling for different crops. \r\nBased on the study, it is observed that paddy is consuming maximum water in the TGP command area. There is a need for efficient crop planning and crop diversification by growing less water requiring crops like pulses, sorghum, millets, cotton and other crops which are equally remunerative to farmers. This would require en efficient coordination of the staff of line departments, Agriculture, Telugu Ganga Project for suitable crop planning, type of crop and quantity of canal water to be released during rabi season. This will greatly help in the efficient utilization of water resources with regard to the quantity and frequency of canal water to be provided for irrigation of crops under the TGP command area. Since the canal water under TGP command is assured, the farmers in the region could efficiently utilize the canal water for growing less water requiring and profitable short duration crops and derive maximum benefit of the available improved agricultural technologies. \r\n','Murali Krishna Ch, Ramana M.V., Ramana Murhy B., Sarala N.V. and Hema Kumar H.V. (2022). Assessment of Relationships Between Rainfall and Canal Water for Maximization of Yield of Major Crops under Telugu Ganga Project command in Andhra Pradesh. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 14(2): 1377-1388.'),(5067,'125','Quantitative Characteristics Analysis of Hippophae salicifolia D. Don (Seabuckthorn) Populations in Himachal Pradesh','Sumit Nangla* and H.P. Sankhyan','240 Quantitative Characteristics Analysis of Hippophae salicifolia D. Don _Seabuckthorn_ Populations in Himachal Pradesh Sumit Nangla.pdf','',1,'The present study was conducted to determine the variation among different populations and growing genotypes for quantitative characteristics of plant, leaves, thorns, fruits and seeds. Five female genotypes of Hippophae salicifolia at each site were selected at the time of fruit set i.e., during August-September, when male and female could be differentiated. The analysis of variance of quantitative characteristics showed significant variation among and between different populations. Based on quantitative characters, the population of Chitkul site was found promising for genotype height (3.34m), leaf area (4.00cm2), leaf density (24.20 per 10cm on branch), seed length (6.50mm), and Kupa site was found promising for branch length (122.67cm), leaf length (7.07cm), leaf width (1.01cm) and seed weight (7.07g). Maximum fruit weight (17.09g) was recorded in Sheigo. Highest heritability was recorded in seed weight (99.98%). Due to significant variability, the population can used for future breeding programmes and for preparation of DUS guidelines of this species.','Hippophae salicifolia, Quantitative characteristics, Genetic variation, Heritability, Genetic advance','— On the basis of quantitative characters, the population of Chitkul was found more promising for higher genotype height, leaf area, leaf density, seed length whereas, Badseri population was found more effective for seed width and Kupa population was more effective for the characters such as branch length, leaf length, leaf width, number of thorns and fruit length. The population of Shiego found more effective for fruit weight and seed weight. The population of Mane for fruit diameter. It is also suggested that for further propagation programmes, genepool from Sangla Valley should be used.\r\n— Phenotypic coefficient of variability is higher than genotypic coefficient of variability for all traits, it means that the characters have influenced with the environment to some degree. All traits were more over genetically controlled as revealed by high heritabilities. Conclusively on the basis of phenotypic performance based, some quantitative of wanted characters can be used for the future improvement forthcoming and so there is more scope for improvement of these characteristics.\r\n','INTRODUCTION \r\nSeabuckthorn (Genus Hippophae) is a berry-bearing, hardy shrub of the family Elaeagnaceae, naturally distributed in Asia and Europe and also introduced in North and South America. It includes 4 species (Hippophae rhamnoides, Hippophae salicifolia, Hippophae tibetana and Hippophae neurocarpa) and further 9 subspecies of Hippophae rhamnoides are reported so far from many parts of world out of which three species of seabuckthorn (Hippophae rhamnoides L. subsp. turkestanica Rousi, Hippophae salicifolia D. Don and Hippophae tibetana Sch.) are found in Spiti, Himachal Pradesh (Singh et al., 2012). It is a unique and valuable genotype resource currently cultivated in various parts of the world. The natural habitat of Seabuckthorn extends widely in China, Mongolia, Russia, and most parts of North Europe. It can withstand extreme temperatures from -43ºC to 40ºC (Lu 1992) and is considered to be drought resistant. The cold deserts in Himachal Pradesh are found in the districts of Lahaul and Spiti, parts of Kinnaur and Pir Panjal region of Chamba. These areas are characterized by high ridges, difficult terrains with ice field, perpetual snow covered peaks and hostile climate. Among various indigenous and under exploited genotype resources of high mountain area, Seabuckthorn (Hippophae salicifolia D. Don) is one of the best solution and can certainly metamorphose the ecology of cold desert by reclaiming these bare fragile mountains. Willow leaved Seabuckthorn and indigenous source locally Sutz/Sarla offers an opportunity to maintain more sustainable livelihood qualities as well as unique option for the simultaneous management of several problems such as capability to grow and survive under adverse climatic conditions, extensive root system with soil binding ability/ soil stabilization/control of river bank/ water retention, This Frankia association accounts for atmospheric nitrogen fixation, hence adding to the soil-fertility (Lu 1992; Singh, 2001), nitrogen fixing upto 60-180kg/ha/year (Mathew et al., 2007), higher vitamin-C content and economic value of fruit and seed oil, excellent fodder and fuel wood qualities (Roomi et al., 2015), wider application in food, cosmetics, therapeutic, pharmaceutical, and cosmetic properties and other pharmaceutical products (Kaushal et al., 2013), excellent fencing hedge and social fencing. Though seabuckthorn is widely found under agroforestry system as well as hazard zones, yet no any systematic study has been carried out so far to understand its potential under agroforestry/forestry perspectives. So it help to be a valuable tool for land restoration and conservation in the cold desert of the Lahaul valley (Sankhyan et al., 2018). The first pre-requisite step to undertake breeding programme and to obtain improved genetic gain is selection of best population and best individuals within the population. Knowledge of the distribution of genetic diversity provides a guide to the proper management of the genetic resources of species in effective genetic conservation programs (Barrett and Kohn, 1991). Hence present study was undertaken to study variation in quantitative characteristics among and between different populations to select plus trees of Hippophae salicifolia D. Don.\r\nMATERIAL AND METHODS\r\nThe present study was carried out in the fields of Baspa valley of District Kinnaur and Spiti valley of District Lahaul and Spiti as well as in the laboratories of the Department of Tree Improvement and Genetic Resources of Dr. Y. S. Parmar University of Horticulture and Forestry, Nauni, Solan, Himachal Pradesh, India during the period 2018- 2020.After surveyed and proper identification of genotypes and population with selecting three natural populations in each valley and from each population five female genotypes were selected at the time of fruit set, i.e., during August-September, marked and taken for further investigation and recording quantitative characteristics. Leaves and berries were taken and carried from experimental sites to laboratory for further study. Altitude of populations ranged from 2590m amsl to 3538m amsl in the study area at different sites of Himachal Pradesh.\r\nObservations on the following morphological characteristics were recorded. Genotype height (m), Branch length (cm), Leaf length (cm), Leaf width (cm), Leaf area (cm²), Leaf density, Number of thorns (average per branch), Fresh fruits weight (g -100 Fruits), Fruit length (mm), Fruit diameter (mm), Seeds weight (g -1000 Seeds), Seed length (mm), Seed width (mm).\r\nANOVA (Analysis of Variance) was carried out for quantitative characteristics as described by Panse and Sukhatme (1967); Chandel (1984). Design RBD(Factorial) with 6 treatments, 5 genotypes, 3 replication was used. Genotypic coefficient of variation (GCV) and phenotypic coefficient of variation (PCV) were estimated as per suggested by Burton and Devane(1953), heritability was estimated as per suggested by Burton and Devane (1953); Johnson et al. (1955), genetic advance as per procedure of Allard (1960) and genetic gain as per procedure of Johnson et al. (1955).\r\nRESULT AND DISCUSSION\r\nA. Quantitative Characters\r\nGenotype height (m). It is evident from data presented in Table 1 that maximum genotype height was recorded in Chitkul (3.34 m) followed by Kupa (2.74 m), while minimum genotype height was observed in Shiego (1.20 m) followed by Giu (1.60 m). Between the genotype of different sites the maximum (4.3 m) genotype height was obtained from genotype number 5 of Chitkul (CG5), whereas the minimum genotype height (0.9 m) was noticed in Sheigo genotype 1 (SG1), respectively. The interaction between the population and among population was statistically significant. Similar genotype height up to 6 m was recorded by Yadav et al. (2006).\r\nBranch length (cm). The maximum branch length was recorded in Kupa (122.67 cm) followed by Chitkul (111 cm) whereas minimum was observed in Shiego (58.27 cm) (Table 2). The highest value (180.00 cm) for branch length was recorded in genotype number 4 in Kupa (KG4), whereas minimum (46.67 cm) was observed in genotype 3 in Giu (GG3). The interaction among and between population was statistically significant.\r\nLeaf length (cm). The mean leaf length ranged from 7.07 to 3.92 cm presented in Table 3. Maximum value was recorded for Kupa (7.07 cm) and the minimum value was noticed in Shiego (3.92 cm). From the studied genotypes, the maximum leaf length (8.10 cm) was observed in genotype 4 for Kupa (KG4), while the minimum (3.34 cm) was recorded in Sheigo genotype 3 (SG3). The interaction among and between population was observed to be significant whereas it was non-significant between population .On the other hand, the variation among population was also shown to be significant. Similar leaf length was recorded by Yadav et al. (2016) which was ranged from 8.46-4.83 cm.\r\nLeaf width (cm). Content of the data presented in Table 4 showed that the variation among the population as well as the interaction between among and between population showed significant variation on leaf width. Maximum leaf width was recorded in Kupa (1.01 cm) followed by Chitkul (0.88 cm) and minimum was recorded in Shiego (0.48 cm) followed by Giu (0.55 cm). However, among population, the maximum leaf width (1.34 cm) was recorded in genotype 3 for Kupa (KG3) whereas, minimum was recorded in genotype 3 (0.37 cm) for Sheigo (SG3). The variation among population as well as between population was also found to be significant. Similar leaf width was recorded by Yadav et al. (2016) which was ranged from 1.4-037 cm.\r\nLeaf area (cm²). The mean data in Table 5 revealed that the maximum leaf area was recorded in Chitkul (4.00 cm²) followed by Kupa (3.83 cm²) and minimum was recorded in Shiego (2.21 cm²) followed by Giu (2.32 cm²). A significant variation was found between population and the interaction between population and among population was also found to be significant.\r\nBetween population, the maximum (7.88 cm2) leaf area was recorded in Chitkul genotype 1 (CG1) where minimum (1.79 cm²) in genotype 3 for Sheigo (SG3). Yadav et al. (2006) also reported similar leaf area ranged from 2.28 to 9.35 cm2.\r\nLeaf density (10 cm of branch). The data presented in Table 6 revealed that the maximum leaf density was recorded in Chitkul (24.20 per 10 cm) and minimum was observed in Shiego (14.67 per 10 cm). Between population, the highest (27.00 per 10 cm) leaf density per 10 cm was recorded in Chitkul genotype 5 (CG5), whereas the minimum was in Kupa genotype 5 (13.00 per 10 cm). The interaction among population and between population was found to be significant but it was non-significant between the population. Similar leaf density was recorded by Yadav et al. (2006) that ranged from. 29.83 leaves per 10 cm.\r\nNumber of thorn (per 10 cm of shoot). The data on number of thorns is detailed in Table 7. The maximum number of thorn was recorded in (4.53 per 10 cm) and the minimum was recorded in Kupa (1.47 per 10 cm), respectively. Between the population of all the sites, the maximum number of thorns per 10 cm was recorded in genotype 5 (5.33 per 10 cm) of Giu (GG5) and minimum number was recorded in Mane genotype 5(MG5) (0.67 per 10 cm). The interaction was also significant between population and among populations. Similar number of thorn was recorded by Singh V (2006) that ranged from 4.3-6.9 per 10 cm.\r\nFresh fruit weight (g -100 fruits). The fruit weight showed significant variation among population, which varied from 17.09 to 11.14 g in Table 8. The maximum fruit weight was noticed in Sheigo (17.09 g) followed by Mane (16.45 g) and minimum was recorded in Badseri (11.14 g) which was differed statistically. Between the population, the maximum fruit weight (20.11 g) was recorded in Mane genotype 4 (MG4) and minimum was in (MG1) Mane genotype 1 (8.84 g). The variation between population was noticed to be significant and the interaction was also statistically significant for among population and between population. Nawaz et al. (2018) also found the maximum and minimum fruit weight value of 20 berries ranged from 6.28 to 1.08 g.\r\nFruit length (mm). The data pertaining to the fruit length is presented in Table 9, which showed significant variations among studied population. Maximum fruit length (7.00 mm) was observed in Kupa which was statistically different from other population and minimum was recorded in Giu (5.73 mm) which was at par with Sheigo (5.88 mm) respectively. Between population, the maximum fruit length (7.23 mm) was also noticed in Kupa genotype 2 (KG2) which was followed by (CP2), (CP5), (KP3), (CP3) whereas, minimum was recorded in Giu Genotype 5 (GG5) (5.17 mm). The interaction among population and between population was found significant but it was non-significant between population. Yadav et al. (2006) reported almost similar maximum and minimum range of fruit length varied from 5.78 to 7.92 mm.\r\nFruit diameter (mm). The data pertaining to fruit diameter are presented in Table 10 which revealed a significant variation among all the population. Mane showed the highest (7.17 mm) fruit diameter which was statistically different from all other population whereas, Badseri reported the minimum (5.88 mm) fruit diameter which was at par with Shiego (5.96) and Chitkul (5.98), respectively. Between population, the maximum (7.63 mm) fruit diameter was noticed in Mane genotype 4 (MG4) and minimum (5.29 mm) was recorded in Badseri genotype 3 (BG3). All the population showed a significant variation between each other and the interaction among population and between population also found to be significant. Yadav et al. (2006) reported almost similar fruit diameter ranged from 5.51 to 7.24 mm.\r\nSeed weight (g -1000 seeds). The population taken for study showed considerable variation among themselves (Table 11). The highest value (21.30 g) for seed weight was recorded in Sheigo was statistically different from other whereas, the minimum seed weight was recorded in Badseri (11.30 g). Between all population, the maximum (24.00 g) seed weight was observed in Sheigo genotype1 and minimum (10.00 g) was recorded in Badseri genotype5 (BG5). The interaction between population and among population showed significant variation and the variation was also statistically significant for among population and between population. Similar seed weight was recorded by Tomar and Rattan (2012) which was ranged between 2.83-1.30 g.\r\nSeed length (mm). The genotypes taken for study showed considerable variation among themselves (Table 12). The highest value (5.83 mm) for seed length was recorded in Chitkul which was significantly different from other population, whereas the minimum seed length was recorded in Mane (4.17 mm). Between population, the maximum seed length (6.50 mm) was noticed in Chitkul genotype 2 whereas, minimum (3.50 mm) was recorded in Mane genotype1 (MG1). The interaction between population and among population as well as between population showed statistically significant variation. The present investigations are in line with the findings of Mir et al., (2018); for seed length ranged from 4-7 mm.\r\nSeed width (mm). The data pertaining to the seed width is presented in Table 13, which showed significant variations among studied population. Badseri showed the highest (3.16 mm) seed width which was statistically different from other population and Kupa reported the minimum (2.18 mm) seed width. Between population, the maximum seed width was noticed in Badseri genotype 4 (3.50 mm) and minimum (1.80 mm) was recorded in Kupa genotype 3. Between population showed non-significant variation among each other and the interaction between population and among population showed statistically significant. The present investigations are in line with the findings of Kaushal and Sharma (2012) for seed width varied from 2.5-3.5 mm.\r\nVariability Estimate and genetic parameters for quantitative characters. Noteworthy distinction was observed during the investigation of coefficient of variation, heritability, genetic advance and genetic gain for various parameters of between different population of Himachal Pradesh. The characters evaluated for variability and genetic parameters included quantitative (plant height, branch length, leaf characters, fruit characters and seed characters). The consequences found for variability and genetic parameters are accessible in the certifying tables and unfolding as follows:\r\nThe total variance panel into different mechanisms as described in Table 14 showed that the highest genotypic and phenotypic coefficient of variability among quantitative traits was observed in number of thorns (45.3; 53.36) followed by leaf area (43.87; 46.21) and minimum value in fruit diameter (8.44; 9.69). Maximum heritability was shown by 100 seeds weight (99.98%) followed by fruit weight (99.97%), plant height (99.54%), leaf length (91.25%), leaf area (90.16%) and minimum value was shown by seed width (47.11 %). Genetic advance was maximum in branch length (38.70) and minimum in leaf width (0.47). Genetic gain was maximum for leaf area (85.82 %) and minimum was for fruit diameter (15.15 %).\r\nThese results support the findings of Mohapatra (1996) in Acacia catechu, Manga and Sen (1998) in Prosopis cineraria, Gera et al. (2002) in Dalbergia sissoo, Khosla et al. (1982) in Santalum album, (Kaushal 1978; Khosla et al., 1980; Gupta 1993; Sehgal and Jaswal 1996; Rathore 1997; Bhat 2010) in Grewia optiva. This suggests the selection of the required traits, so as to exploit the potentialities and huge variation existing in the valuable species, which is of great agroforestry importance in cold desert of Spiti Valley and Baspa Valley of Kinnaur.\r\n','Sumit Nangla and H.P. Sankhyan (2022). Quantitative Characteristics Analysis of Hippophae salicifolia D. Don (Seabuckthorn) Populations in Himachal Pradesh. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 14(2): 1389-1397.'),(5068,'125','Impact of Pre and Post emergence Herbicide Combinations on Yield of Black Gram','Vishal Singh, Naushad Khan, Satya Prakash Gupta and Ankit Kumar','241 Impact of Pre and Post emergence Herbicide Combinations on Yield of Black Gram Vishal Singh.pdf','',1,'A field experiment was conducted during summer 2018 at Students’ Instructional Farm, Chandra Shekhar Azad University of Agriculture and Technology, Kanpur to find out the most effective herbicide combinations for effective control of weeds to obtain a good harvest of black gram. The experiment was laid in randomized block design with total of ten treatments replicated thrice. In recent years weeds were reported to develop resistance against application of individual herbicides. So as a strategy pre-mix combination of herbicides were employed to test its impact on weed flora. Pre-mix combination of pendimethalin 1000 g/ha PRE + imazethapyr 100 g/ha POE had recorded maximum number of primary as well as secondary branches/plant. However other yield attributes viz. pod/plant, pod weight/ plant, number of grain/ pod and test weight (g) also found to be highest with the same herbicide combination. Seed and stover yield were recorded highest with the application of pendimethalin 1000 g/ha PRE + imazethapyr 100 g/ha POE over other herbicides or herbicide combination applied as pre-or post-emergence.','Black gram, Branches, Yield, Herbicide combinations.','It can be concluded that pendimethalin 1000 g/ha PE + imazethapyr 100 g/ha POE or pendimethalin 1000 g/ha PE + one hand weeding at 20 DAS found suitable for weed control in summer black gram as these provide higher branches, pod/plant, pod weight/ plant, number of grain/ pods, test weight (g), seed yield and stover yield.','INTRODUCTION\r\nIn India, black gram is one of the most significant pulse crops. India is the world\'s top producer and user of black gram. Black gram meets a large portion of the protein needs of the country\'s vegetarian population. It has a protein content of roughly 26%, almost three times that of grains (Kavitha et al., 2013). It is mostly planted in Uttar Pradesh during the kharif season, when weed infestation causes significant production loss. Distinct types of weeds, such as grasses, wide leaves, and sedges, compete with black gram for different growth factors in a group or individually. The first 20–40 days after planting are essential for weed competition in black gram, and season-long weed competition has been reported to diminish black gram output by 27–64 percent depending on the kind and severity of weed flora (Singh, 2011; Bhowmick et al., 2015). Furthermore, constant rain throughout the season makes hand weeding risky and impractical. As a result, chemical weed management became a viable and cost-effective option for managing weeds in black gram production. Due to the limited flexibility in time of application, development of resistance in weed against particular herbicide there is poor efficiency for different pre-emergence or post-emergence herbicides during kharif which badly affect the crop productivity. So combination of herbicides may be a good option to avoid these problems. Imazethapyr a post-emergence herbicide that inhibits the enzyme acetohydroxy acid synthase, has been shown to be particularly efficient for broad spectrum weed control in kharif pulses, including black gram. However, efficiency of different herbicide combination in kharif black gram under central plain zone of Uttar Pradesh yet to be determined. As a result, a comprehensive field research was conducted in summer black gramto determine the appropriate herbicide combination for successful crop growth.\r\nMETHOD AND MATERIAL\r\nThe field experiment was conducted during summer season of the year 2018 at Students’ Instructional Farm, Department of Agronomy, Chandra Shekhar Azad University of Agriculture and Technology, Kanpur, India. Geographically, Kanpur comes under the sub-tropical semi-arid tract of North India. The Kanpur-city lies on 26°2935 North latitude and 80°1825 East longitude at 125.9 m mean sea level. Kanpur City situated in Central Plain Zone of U.P. located on the right bank of holly river Ganga and fall under upper Indo-Gangetic plain zone of India. In all, there were 10 treatments included in the experiment viz. pendimethalin 1000 g/ha, imazethapyr 100 g/ha, quizalofop 50 g/ha at 25-30 DAS, pendimethalin 1000 g/ha + imazethapyr 100 g/ha POE, pendimethalin 1000 g/ha PE + quizalofop 50 g/ha at 20 DAS, pendimethalin 1000 g/ha PE + One hand weeding at 20 DAS, imazethapyr 100 g/ha 20 DAS + quizalofop 50 g/ha at 25 DAS, two hand weeding (20 & 40 DAS), weed free and weedy check. The soil of experimental field was alkaline in reaction (8.2 pH), low in available nitrogen (176.74 kg ha-1) and medium in organic carbon (0.56%), available phosphorus (19.30 kg ha-1) and potassium (217.80 kg ha-1). The average annual rainfall is 65.6 mm out of which 88.70% received during the months of July to October. The black gram (Urd) variety Shekhar-2 was used in the experiment. A uniform seed rate of 25 kg ha-1 was used in all the treatments. The sowing of crop was done on 10th March, 2018 in rows at 30 cm apart with a depth of 5-7 cm by using the “Desi plough”. It matures in 90 days but in summer season it mature within 75 DAS. The average seed yield is about 15-20 q ha-1. The herbicides were applied as pre-emergence (0-2 DAS) and post emergence (25 DAS) at 3-4 leaf stage of weeds with the help of manually operated Knapsack sprayer fitted with flat fan nozzle using 500 liters of water ha-1. Crop was irrigated at 15 days interval to get maximum yield. The length of pods (cm) was measured using a scale after randomly choosing plants from three different locations (cm). By counting all the pods on three harvested tagged plants, the number of pods (plant-1) was reported. The total number of seeds extracted and the total number of grains were counted and averaged in three randomly selected pods. For the experimental designs, statistical analysis of the data was performed using Fisher\'s analysis of variance, and treatment means were compared using the least significant difference test at a 5% probability level using a t-test and RBD values were calculated.\r\nRESULT AND DISCUSSION\r\nApplication of various herbicides significantly influenced the number of branches per plant at all the stages of crop growth. Highest number of primary as well as secondary branches was recorded with weed free treatment. However, among herbicidal treatment highest number of primary branches plant-1 was recorded with the application of pendimethalin 1000 g/ha PE + imazethapyr 100 g/ha POE of at all stages of crop growth which is at par with allother treatments except quizalofop 50 g/ha at 25-30 DAS. However, in case of secondary branches pendimethalin1000 g/ha+ imazethapyr 100 g/ha POE recorded the highest number which is statistically at par with pendimethalin 1000 g/ha PE + One hand weeding at 20 DAS and imazethapyr 100 g/ha 20 DAS + quizalofop 50 g/ha at 25 DAS. Number of pod plant-1, pod weight plant-1, Number of grain pod-1 and Test weight (g) was recorded highest with weed free treatment and lowest with weedy check. However, among herbicidal treatment combination of pendimethalin 1000 g/ha PE + imazethapyr 100 g/ha POE recorded the highest weight of pod plant-1 and number of grain pod-1 which is at par with pendimethalin 1000 g/ha PE + One hand weeding at 20 DAS and imazethapyr 100 g/ha 20 DAS + quizalofop 50 g/ha at 25 DAS. Number of pod plant-1 also follow the same trend but was at par with pendimethalin 1000 g/ha PE + One hand weeding at 20 DAS. Test weight (g) was recorded highest with weed free treatment but in case of herbicidal treatment pendimethalin 1000 g/ha PE + imazethapyr 100 g/ha POE recorded the highest value. Due to the implementation of successful weed management technologies, weeds competed less with the crop for various resources such as space, light, nutrients, and moisture. As a result of reduced crop-weed competition, crop growth improved overall, and reproductive structures and photosynthate transfer to the sink improved. These results were in close conformity with Yadav et al. (2014).\r\nSeed and stover yield of black gram recorded significant variations with respect to different weed management treatments. It was observed that among the different weed management treatments, weed free recorded significantly highest seed yield (10.95 q/ha) and stover yield (36.45 q/ha). Reduced crop weed competition and greater weed management efficacy by providing below threshold weed conditions were clearly responsible for the increase in seed and stover production of black gram under weed-free circumstances. As a result, the agricultural plants used nutrients, hydration, sunshine, space, and other input elements more efficiently, resulting in higher yield. Due to severe competition for nutrients, moisture, and light between the crop and weeds at crucial phenophases of the crop, the weedy check plots produced considerably lower yields. Similar findings were reported by Mirjha et al. (2013); Yadav et al. (2015). Among the herbicidal treatments, application of pendimethalin 1000 g/ha PE + imazethapyr 100 g/ha as POE significantly recorded highest seed yield (10.52 q/ha) and stover yield (34.68 q/ha), which was statistically at par with pendimethalin 1000 g/ha PE + One hand weeding at 20 DAS, imazethapyr 100 g/ha 20 DAS + quizalofop 50 g/ha at 25 DAS and pendimethalin 1000 g/ha PE +quizalofop 50 g/ha at 20 DAS. This is likely owing to enhanced weed control of both grassy and broad-leaved weeds during early crop growth phases, increased weed control effectiveness, increased nutrient absorption by the crop, and improved yield characteristics (Shashidhar et al., 2020).','Vishal Singh, Naushad Khan, Satya Prakash Gupta and Ankit Kumar (2022). Impact of Pre and Post emergence Herbicide Combinations on Yield of Black Gram. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 14(2): 1398-1401.'),(5069,'125','Influence of Myo-inositol Phosphate Synthase Gene Inphytic Acid contents and Superoxide Dismutase Activity (SOD) of Groundnut (Arachis hypogaea L.)','Yashi Singh Tomar, Sushma Tiwari*, M.K. Tripathi and Neha Gupta','242 Influence of Myo-inositol Phosphate Synthase Gene Inphytic Acid contents and Superoxide Dismutase Activity _SOD_ of Groundnut _Arachis hypogaea L._ Sushma Tiwari.pdf','',1,'Phytic acid (myo-inositol-1,2,3,4,5,6-hexakisphosphate, InSP6) is major storage form of phosphorus in mature cereal and legume seeds. It binds to metallic cations such as calcium, zinc, magnesium and iron to form a mixed salt called phytate. Thus, phytates act as anti-nutrients, and promote the minerals unavailable. Myo-inositol phosphate synthase (MIPS) is the major gene for phytate synthesis in legumes and it is characterized only in few major legumes such as soybean, green gram, black gram, cowpea and French bean. In groundnut, effect of MIPS gene in phytic acid contents and SOD is an important area of research. In present investigation MIPS gene and phytic acid contents was estimated in 57 groundnut genotypes. Phytic acid estimation was done in 35 days old groundnut leaf tissue and the result showed phytic acid concentration varied from 1.73 (ICGV-13264) to 2.94% (Shivpuri local42). Most of the genotypes were having phytic acid between 1.95 to 2.17 %. Total SOD ranged from 10.8 (nmol/g) for JGN 3 to 24.8 (nmol/g) forICGV-9112. Ten allele specific MIPS primers of chickpea and moong bean was used on groundnuts genotypes, three markers have shown amplification for the MIPS gene at 400 base pairs in 17 groundnut genotypes i.e., Shivpuri local 37, ICGV13523, ICGV13236, ICGV7988, ICGV13245, shivpurilocal39, ICGV13549, JAGN1, DHGN4, ICGV13269, ICGV9249, ICGN13520, ICGN13573, Shivpuri local42, Shivpuri local6, Shivpuri local29 along with check variety Gangapuri. Identified groundnut genotypes with low phytic acid contents could be used for groundnut improvement programme.','Groundnut, MIPS markers, phytic acid, SOD','Current study identified groundnut genotypes having MIPS gene and their phytic acid content. Marker assisted selection is important tool for high-speed crop improvement programme. MIPS gene was identified by amplification of 400 bp amplicon. Identified genotypes could further be used for hybridization programme of groundnut and for getting improved varieties with low phytic acid contents. ','INTRODUCTION\r\nGroundnut or peanut, is an important auto-tetraploid legume crop rich in protein and oil content grown in tropical and sub-tropical region all over the world. In addition to the huge beneficial properties, peanuts also have very high levels of phytic acid than wheat, and maize. Phytic acid content is between 0.2–4% in peanuts and a huge variability among peanut genotypes has been observed (812.3–1713.8 mg/100 g seed). Phytate is a chelator of cations such as Fe2+, Zn2+, Ca2+ and Mg2+, and reduces their bioavailability in humans and monogastric animals. In developing countries where staple food is mainly seed-based, it leads to serious alimentary deficiencies in humans. Nonruminant animals are unable to digest phytic acid, and the undigested phytic acid promotes water eutrophication and environmental pollution. The Phytic acid is myoinositol 1,2,3,4,5,6-hexakis dihydrogen phosphate. Phytic acid is the major storage form of phosphorous comprising 1-5% by weight in cereals, legumes, oil seeds and nuts (Vats and Banerjee 2004). It represents 50-85% of total phosphorous in plants (Reddy et al. 1982). Phytate rapidly accumulates in seeds during the ripening period. It is stored in leguminous seeds and oil seeds in the globoid crystal within the protein bodies. MIPS which stands for myo-Inositol-1,2,3,4,5,6-hexakisphosphate (Ins P(6)) was first described as an abundant form of phosphorus in plant seeds and other plant tissues and dubbed \"phytic acid\". Subsequently it was found to be a common constituent in eukaryotic cells, its metabolism a basic component of cellular housekeeping. Phytic acid chelates micronutrients which prevent their bioavailability. Superoxide dismutase activity (SOD) contributed superoxide radical dismutation. Marker assisted selection for a particular trait is one of the most important technologies for groundnut crop improvement (Adlak et al., 2019; Bhawar et al., 2020; Pramanik et al., 2019; Pramanik et al., 2021; Rathore et al., 2022). Bhagyawant et al., (2018) studied 60 chickpea genotypes for MIPS gene, antioxidant activity, mineral content and phytic acid content. They have done PCR analysis and amplified a 400 bp fragment of MIPS gene in chickpea. In our experiment we have used these markers for amplification of MIPS gene in groundnut. Objectives of groundnut crop improvement programs demand enhancement of micronutrient concentration, with low levels of phytic acid. Current study is focused on impact of MIPS gene on phytic acid and identification of low phytic acid containing groundnut genotypes.\r\nMATERIAL AND METHODS\r\nPlant Material. In present investigation, five check varieties including JGN3, GPBG4, SunOleic95R, KDG128, Gangapuri and fifty-one groundnut germplasm lines collected from Junagarh, Gujarat, Shivpuri, Dhar, Badwani and Jhabua Madhya Pradesh were evaluated for phytic acid, SOD and MIPS gene identification. \r\nMethodology\r\nPhytic Acid Estimation. Phytic acid estimation was done using 25 mg groundnut leaf sample of 35 days old and grinded it in liquid nitrogen. Wilcox et al. (2000) method was used for seed extraction with HCL (0.4mM) for phytic acid evaluation. To get the clear supernatant Chen\'s reagent (3M sulphuric acid, 2.5% ammonium molybdate, 10% ascorbic acid and deionized water in the ratio of 1:1:1:2 was used. The mixture was incubated for 15 minutes at room temperature and then absorption was taken at 650 nm in a spectrophotometer.\r\nAssaying for superoxide dismutase activity (SOD) Estimation. The total SOD activity was measured by taking 25mg of leaf sample at 35 DAS and crush it in liquid nitrogen. Added 250 microliters of 0.1% trichloro acetic acid to it in aneppendorf tube. Vortex for 10 min and centrifuge for 20 minutes at 10000rpm. Taken 160 microliters supernatant in an Eppendorf tube and add 160 microliters of phosphate buffer. Added 680 microliters of 1M potassium iodide. Keep the reaction mixture in dark for 1 hour and then take absorption at 390 nm. Taxonomic distance measured by phytic acid and SOD were analysed using Jaccard’s similarity index, calculated by NTSYSpc v2.1 software (Rohalf 1998).\r\nMolecular Characterization. Genomic DNA was isolated from 20-30 days young leaves of groundnut germplasms by modified CTAB method (Murray and Thompson 1980; Tiwari et al., 2017; Tiwari et al., 2021). Ten MIPS markers (Bhagyawant et al., 2018)were used for allele specific gene amplification, out of these markers three have generated amplification of 400 bp in 56 genotypes included germplasm lines and check varieties. Polymerase chain reaction was accomplished in 10μl reaction mixture encompassing of 1X PCR buffer, 0.1 U Taq DNA polymerase (Fermentas), 1 μl dNTP (1 mM), 0.5 μl of forward and reverse primers each (10 pM) and 20 ng/μl of genomic DNA in a thermocycler (Bio-Rad, USA). The PCR protocol comprised of initial denaturation step of 94°C for 3 min tracked by 35 cycles of 94°C for 1 min, annealing at 55°C for 30 sec, elongation at 72°C for 1 min with final extension at 72°C for 10 min. The PCR products were resolved on 3% agarose gel at 120V for 2-3 hrs and documented using Syngene, Gel Documentation System (USA).\r\nRESULTS AND DISCUSSIONS \r\nPhytic acid concentration varied from 1.73 (ICGV-13264) to 2.94% (Shivpuri local-42). Most of the genotypes were having phytic acid between 1.95 to 2.17 % (Fig 1). Total SOD ranged from 10.8 (nmol/g) for JGN 3 to 24.8 (nmol/g) forICGV-9112. No significant correlation was found between phytic acid and SOD. Total 4 groups were formed between SOD and phytic acid as shown in 2D diagram (Fig. 2). (Myo-Inositol-1,2,3,4,5,6-hexakisphosphate (Ins P (6) (MIPS) gene is responsible for phytic acid in plant seeds and plant tissue. The molecular markers used for the identification of MIPS gene shows a band of 400 base pairs after PCR amplification. When the markers earlier used by the study done by (Bhagyawant et al., 2018) in chickpea 10 primers was used on groundnuts selected 36 germplasms out of which three markers have shown amplification for the MIPS gene at 400 base pairs in some of the genotypes (Fig. 3). Total 17 genotypes i.e., Shivpuri local-37, ICGV-13523, ICGV-13236, ICGV-7988, ICGV-13245, shivpurilocal-39, ICGV-13549, JAGN-1, DHGN-4, ICGV-13269, ICGV-9249, ICGN-13520, ICGN-13573, Shivpuri local-42, Shivpuri local6, Shivpuri local-29 along with check variety Gangapuri were having MIPS gene. Although, marker assisted selection is one of the promising approaches of crop improvement, conventional methods of selections are also equally important. Trait specific molecular markers are being used widely for characterization in many crops including groundnut (Mishra et al., 2020; Mishra et al., 2021; Upadhyay et al., 2020; Shaym et al., 2020; Baghel et al., 2020; Tiwari et al., 2014; Sahu et al., 2020; Choudhary et al., 2020; Makwana et al., 2021; Tiwari et al., 2017; Verma et al., 2021; Rajpoot et al., 2020;). Although groundnut molecular breeding is being applied widely, it has certain limitation of low polymorphism (Adlak et al., 2021; Pramanik et al., 2021). Breeding for low phytate peanut genotypes promises to be cost-effective intervention in the fight against micronutrient deficiencies in developing economies. However, tools and genomic resources are still not available to develop such varieties. Our study has identified groundnut genotypes with low phytic acid that can be used in molecular breeding to reduce the phytate content in peanuts.\r\n','Yashi Singh Tomar, Sushma Tiwari, M.K. Tripathi and Neha Gupta (2022). Influence of Myo-inositol Phosphate Synthase Gene Inphytic Acid contents and Superoxide Dismutase Activity (SOD) of Groundnut (Arachis hypogaea L.). Biological Forum – An International Journal, 14(2): 1402-1405.'),(5070,'125','Eco-friendly Management of Purple Blotch of Garlic caused by Alternaria porri (Ellis) Ciferri','Vijaykumar K.N., Shripad Kulkarni*, Patil P.V., Kambrekar D.N. and Shashidhar T.R.','243 Eco-friendly Management of Purple Blotch of Garlic caused by Alternaria porri _Ellis_ Ciferri Vijaykumar K.pdf','',1,'Garlic is second only to onion in popularity among bulb crops and known to suffer from several fungal diseases at various stages of plant growth. Among them, purple blotch caused by Alternaria porri is considered to be a devastating disease which causes the yield loss upto the extent of 25-60 per cent under favourable conditions. It is possible to manage purple blotch with the use of fungicides; however, there are a number of problems associated with using them, like environmental pollution, residual effects and killing non-targeted organisms, so its use should be minimized. With a growing demand for good crop health, disease management practices utilizing botanicals, bioagents and indigenous technology knowledge provide a sustainable and safe alternative to chemical pesticides. Hence, the present study is designed to evaluate management practices that are inexpensive and environmentally friendly like use of botanicals, bioagents and indigenous technology knowledge against Alternaria porri under laboratory conditions to ensure safe and healthy food. Among seven botanicals tested against Alternaria porri by poison food technique, nimbecidine showed maximum mycelial growth inhibition (64.20 %) followed by multineem (59.88 %) at 1 per cent concentration. In case of different bioagents evaluated through dual culture technique, a maximum growth inhibition was observed in Trichoderma harzianum (83.89 %) which is followed by Pseudomonas fluorescens (63.40 %). In five different indigenous technology knowledge tested by spore germination method, the maximum spore germination inhibition of 81.56 per cent was observed with cow urine followed by jeevamrutha (78.49 %) at 20 per cent concentration. However, the least inhibition of Alternaria porri was observed with raw neem oil (20.49 %), Bacillus subtilis (38.87%) and vermiwash (29.08 %) among botanicals, bioagents and indigenous technology knowledge, respectively. The eco-friendly treatments, such as bioagents, botanicals and indigenous technology knowledge may help to manage the disease better with minimal use of fungicides.','Cow urine, Indigenous technology knowledge, Nimbecidine, Trichoderma harzianum','Use of botanicals, bioagents and indigenous technology knowledge proved to be effective in inhibiting the pathogen’s growth and their application considerably safe to environment and human health. Nimbecidine has shown superiority over other six botanicals in arresting the mycelial growth of A. porri (64.20 %) followed by multineem (59.88 %) whereas; least inhibition was observed with raw neem oil (20.49 %) at 1.00 per cent concentration. Among the four bioagents tested, maximum inhibition was noticed with Trichoderma harzianum (83.89 %) followed by followed by Pseudomonas fluorescens (63.40 %). Irrespective of their concentrations (5, 10 and 20 %) cow urine was significantly superior in inhibiting the spore germination (64.85 %) of A. porri over other four ITK’s tested. The least spore germination inhibition was noticed in vermiwash (21.43 %). ','INTRODUCTION\r\nGarlic (Allium sativum L.) is second only to onion in popularity among bulb crops and used as a spice or condiment throughout India. It is an edible and pungent annual bulbous plant in the Amaryllidaceae family. There is constant demand of garlic in the market as it is required daily in small quantity in almost all houses. It has been cultivated in number of countries, due to its vegetative propagation it is susceptible to number of diseases at all stages of plant development. Around the world, downy mildew, rust, purple blotch, stemphylium blight and basal rot have had a significant impact on yields. These diseases also occur during harvesting, post harvesting stages lowering the quality during processing and marketing stages, ultimately reducing the export potential of the crop that significantly causes the qualitative and quantitative economic loss (Prahlad et al., 2021). Garlic is most often affected by purple blotch caused by Alternaria porri (Ellis) Ciferri (Vijaykumar et al., 2021). Purple blotch initially starts as large number of small, whitish circular or irregular spots, smaller than one millimetre diameter. Over time, these spots become larger, increasingly oval-shaped or irregular and turn from white to violet in colour. Afterward, the central part of the spots begins to turn purple accompanied by a pale yellow orange to salmon band extending beyond pale green zone. The dark purple colour is one of the most distinctive characteristics of the disease. The edges of the spots are usually yellow and extend toward the tips and bases of the leaves (Aveling, 1998). The disease is more severe in high humidity levels of 80-90 per cent and moderate temperature of 25-30 °C. A foliar infection upto 90 per cent has been reported in susceptible cultivars of garlic. Complete damage to the leaf tissues is observed at the time of bulb maturity. Leaves being the only photosynthetic organ directly influence the bulb yield. Significant reduction in bulb yield (25-60 %) due to drying of leaves has been observed in garlic (Bisht and Agarwal 1993). It is possible to manage purple blotch with the use of fungicides; however, there are a number of problems associated with using them like environmental pollution, residual effect and killing non-targeted organisms, its use should be minimized. Eco-friendly management practices such as use of bioagents, botanicals and indigenous technology knowledge (ITK’s) proved to be effective in controlling many diseases and also considerably safe to environment and human health. In India, due to purple blotch disease, garlic production has decreased significantly, resulting in an economic loss for the country and ever increasing demand for safe, healthy food in these days, the present investigation has been undertaken.\r\nMATERIAL AND METHODS\r\nThe present investigation was carried out during 2019 at the Department of Plant Pathology, College of Agriculture, Dharwad, Karnataka. For analysing the experimental data, arcsine angular transformations were made and analyzed the experimental data in our study for their significance of difference by the usual statistical method adopted for completely randomized designs and we interpreted the results in accordance with Walter (1967). Various botanicals, bioagents and indigenous technology knowledge were evaluated under laboratory condition against A. porri through different techniques viz., poison food technique, dual culture technique and spore germination method, respectively. For botanicals and bioagents, mycelial growth inhibition was recorded while spore germination was recorded for indigenous technology knowledge. Based on the per cent mycelial growth inhibition and spore germination inhibition, effective organics were identified and those can be used to manage the disease in an eco-friendly way.\r\nPoisoned food technique for the efficacy of botanicals on inhibition of mycelial growth of Alternaria porri. Plant based products can be used easily and successfully by farmers against plant pathogenic fungi because of their safety, cheapness and non-hazardous nature. The present study is designed to evaluate the antifungal activity of commercially available botanicals. The following botanicals were evaluated at different concentrations (0.25, 0.5 and 1.0 %) through poison food technique (Nene and Thapliyal, 1982). The required concentrations were prepared by adding known amount of botanical suspension to the melted potato dextrose agar (PDA) media and about 20 ml of poisoned medium was poured in each sterilized Petri plates. No test botanical in the media was served as suitable check. Nine mm mycelial disc of the pathogen was placed in the centre of Petri plate and incubated at 28 ± 1°C. For each treatment, three replications were maintained. Finally the diameter of the colony was measured after reaching maximum growth in control plates. The mycelial growth inhibition per cent was determined through the formula given by Vincent (1947) as follows\r\nI= (C-T)/C ×100\r\nWhere, \r\n I = Mycelial growth inhibition (%). \r\n C = Mycelial growth in control. \r\n T = Mycelial growth in treatment.\r\nDual culture technique for the efficacy of bioagents on mycelial growth inhibition of Alternaria porri. Four bioagents viz., Trichoderma harzianum Rifai (MH027645.1), Pseudomonas fluorescens Migula(NAIMCC-B-01981) and Bacillus subtilis (Ehrenberg) Cohn(MT383652.1) were collected from Institute of Organic Farming, UAS, Dharwad and another commercially available Trichoderma viride Persoon (Multiplex - market sample) were used to test their bioefficacy against A. porri by following dual culture technique (Dennis and Webster 1971).\r\nTwenty ml of sterilized and cooled PDA was poured into sterile Petri plates. Fungal antagonists were evaluated by inoculating the pathogen at one side of the plate and antagonists on the opposite side of the same plate by leaving 3-4 cm gap between them. Bacterial antagonists were streaked in the corner of the plate after which a fungal disk of pathogen was placed. Each treatment was replicated four times with control (without bioagent) maintaining only pathogen. Finally the diameter of the colony was measured after reaching maximum growth in control plates. Per cent mycelial growth inhibition over control was worked out according to the Vincent (1947) formulae as mentioned earlier.\r\nSpore germination method for the efficacy of indigenous technology knowledge on spore germination inhibition of Alternaria porri. Five ITK’s such as desi cow urine, butter milk (curd diluted in water @ 1:4 and fermented for two days), panchagavya, jeevamrutha and vermiwash were tested against inhibition of spore germination at 5, 10 and 20 per cent concentrations by following spore germination method using cavity slides. Ready-made preparations of panchagavya, jeevamrutha and vermiwash were taken from Institute of Organic Farming (IOF), UAS Dharwad. Required concentrations were prepared by mixing known volume of ITK’s in sterile distilled water separately under aseptic conditions. The spore suspension was prepared separately in sterile water to obtain 5 × 106 spores per ml. Then a drop of spore suspension was mixed with one drop of ITK\'s solution in a cavity slide to achieve the required concentration. A control treatment was maintained with only sterile water. Three replications were maintained for each treatment. Slides were incubated at room temperature (25 ± 1 °C) for 12 hr and observation on spore germination was recorded under compound microscope at 10 X magnification. Spore germination per cent was calculated by following formula\r\nPer cent germination (PG)=A/B×100\r\nWhere, \r\nA - Number of germinated conidia \r\nB - Total number of conidia observed\r\nRESULTS AND DISCUSSION\r\nThe management of diseases through chemical fungicides leads to various detrimental effects on soil, air and water leading to residual toxicity. Hence, the botanicals, bioagents and indigenous technology knowledge which are easily accessible, non-phytotoxic, renewable, inexhaustible, indigenously available and readily biodegradable, relatively inexpensive and can be utilized in integrated disease management to protect plants. In the present study, different botanicals, bioagents and indigenous technology knowledge were examined under laboratory condition for their antifungal activity against A. porri. \r\nEfficacy of botanicals on inhibition of mycelial growth of Alternaria porri. Seven test botanicals reduced the mycelial growth of A. porri at 0.25, 0.50 and 1.00 per cent concentrations and the data is presented in Table 1 and Plate 1. At 1.00 per cent concentration, nimbecidine inhibited maximum mycelial growth (64.20 %) and found to be the best over other botanicals tested. Next best was multineem which had inhibited mycelial growth upto 42.84, 47.53 and 59.88 per cent at 0.25, 0.50 and 1.00 per cent concentrations, respectively. The least inhibition of mycelial growth was observed in raw neem oil which had recorded 5.43, 18.89 and 20.49 per cent at 0.25, 0.50 and 1.00 per cent concentrations, respectively. Increase in concentration has increased mycelial growth inhibition by all the botanicals tested. \r\nThere was a great deal of variability in the efficacy of botanicals on mycelial growth of A. porri under in vitro. Significantly higher mycelial growth inhibition was noticed in nimbecidine at 1 per cent concentration (64.20 %). Similar findings were made by Patilkulkarni (2013) while evaluating the bioefficacy of plant extracts against A. porri and Azadirachta indica found to be the most effective at 10 per cent in inhibiting the mycelial growth of the test pathogen (71.85 %). The most active component of neem is azadirachtin, followed by nimbolinin, nimbin, nimbidin, nimbidol, sodium nimbinate, gedunin, salannin and quercetin. Azadirachtin is a terpene limonoid present in seeds that has properties that are both antifeedant and toxic to pathogens. Through antimicrobial activity, it inhibits microbial growth or potential to break the cell wall of pathogen. Priyanka et al. (2017) also studied efficacy of Azadirachtin at 2 and 4 per cent concentrations against A. porri and observed 62.09 and 68.61 per cent mycelial growth inhibition, respectively. The results were similar to that of study conducted by Chethana et al. (2012); Abdel-Hafez et al. (2013) who reported that Azadirachtin compound present in nimbecidine has the capacity to inhibit the mycelial growth of pathogen and it has high potentiality to enter the spore and exhibit the fungi toxicity inturn affecting growth of the pathogen.\r\nJabeen et al. (2013) demonstrated that ethyl acetate fraction of Azadirachta indica canretard the mycelial growth of Alternaria solaniwith minimum inhibitory concentration (MIC) of 0.19 mg compared to that of 0.78 g MIC with fungicide (metalaxyl + mancozeb). The results of a study conducted by Shrivastava and Swarnkar (2014) also revealed that methanol and ethanol extracts of neem could inhibitmycelial growth of Alternaria solani.\r\nEfficacy of bioagents on inhibition of mycelial growth of Alternaria porri. Based on laboratory evaluation of bioagents through dual culture technique, significant differences were observed in per centage of mycelial growth inhibition of A. porri. Maximum mycelial growth inhibition of 83.89 per cent was noticed with Trichoderma harzianum followed by Pseudomonas fluorescens (63.40 %) and T. viride (61.20 %). The least mycelial growth inhibition of 38.97 per cent was recorded with Bacillus subtilis (Table 2 and Plate 2). \r\nIt is possible to reduce inoculum levels of pathogens by using antagonistic microorganisms as a non-chemical means of controlling plant diseases. This would prevent pollution and health hazards associated with fungicides. The competitive ability of antagonists against Alternaria porri was studied by dual culture method.\r\nAmong four bioagents evaluated maximum mycelial inhibition (83.89 %) was noticed in Trichoderma harzianum by over growing on the test fungus. This may simply be a result of the higher competitiveness of Trichoderma sp. either through mycoparasitism or antibiosis, and/or because of the possibility of microbial interactions, such as stimulation, inhibition, mutual intermingling of growth of antagonistic isolates over pathogens. It has been reported that Trichoderma sp produces secondary metabolites such as 6-phenyl-alpha-pyrone (6pp), derivatives of isocyanide, acids (such as heptelidic acid), peptaibols and enzymes that degrade cell wall proteins (CDWE) which are effective in inhibiting the growth of many phytopathogenic fungi (Vinale et al., 2008). Similar findings were observed by Kumari et al. (2006); Pramodkumar (2007); Kareem (2008); Rahman et al. (2015); Sairam et al. (2020) who reported that T. harzianum is effective against A. porri under in vitro condition in inhibiting the maximum mycelial growth of the fungus.\r\nThese bioagents likely inhibited pathogen functions by the mechanisms of competition and/or antibiosis. Similar mechanism has been explained by many workers (Mishra and Gupta, 2012; Brahmane et al., 2015; Arunakumara et al., 2016). Dennis and Webster (1971) made detailed study related to the mechanism of Trichoderma sp. and explained that antagonism of this bioagent against many fungi is mainly due to production of acetaldehyde, a carbonyl compound which may be one of the reasons for its antagonistic effect on A. porri during the present study.\r\nEfficacy of indigenous technology knowledge on spore germination inhibition of Alternaria porri. Five test ITK’s reduced the spore germination of A. porri at 5, 10 and 20 per cent concentrations and obtained results are presented in the Table 3 and Plate 3. Cow urine, at 5 per cent concentration inhibited the maximum spore germination (40.66 %) and found to be superior among all other ITK\'s tested. Next best was panchagavya with 37.59 per cent spore germination inhibition and found on par with jeevamrutha (36.17 %). The least spore germination inhibition was noticed in vermiwash (14.89 %) followed butter milk (16.55 %) and found on par with each other. At 10 per cent concentration, maximum spore germination inhibition was noticed in cow urine (72.34 %) which was significantly superior over other ITK\'s tested. Next best was jeevamrutha (69.27 %) followed by panchagavya (65.48 %) whereas, least spore germination inhibition was noticed in vermiwash (20.33 %). Significant inhibition of spore germination was observed with cow urine at 20 per cent concentration (81.56 %) compared to other ITK\'s tested. Next best was jeevamrutha (78.49 %) followed by panchagavya (74.94 %) whereas, least spore germination inhibition was noticed in vermiwash with 29.08 per cent. \r\nIrrespective of ITK’s concentrations tested, cow urine (64.85 %) found to be the best in inhibiting the spore germination of A. porri and found be the best ITK’s among all others tested. However, the mean least spore germination inhibition was noticed in butter milk (28.68 %).\r\nPeople have developed a number of farming methods during the long journey from primitive agriculture to modern farming through trial and error in their attempts to overcome numerous difficulties they faced during the farming process. Based on generations of experience, this knowledge is derived from close interaction with natural and physical micro-environments. This form of knowledge in today\'s parlance is popularly known as Indigenous Technology knowledge (ITK) or Indigenous Knowledge System (IKS) and play major role in plant disease management strategy of sustainable agriculture. \r\nIn present investigation five different ITK\'s (cow urine, butter milk, panchagavya, vermiwash and jeevamrutha) are evaluated against spore germination of A. porri at different concentrations (5, 10 and 20 %) and their efficacy varied from 29.08 (vermiwash) to 81.56 per cent (cow urine) at 20 per cent concentration. However, the highestspore germination inhibition was noticed in cow urine (81.56 %) followed by jeevamrutha (79.94 %). Cow urine is a product of a cow that has many benefits and is nontoxic. Cow urine (gomutra) is a substance/secretion of animal origin that is claimed to have uncountable therapeutic benefits in Ayurvedic texts.In cow urine, 95 per cent of it is water, 2.5 per cent urea, minerals, 24 salts, hormones, and 2.5 per cent enzymes. Additionally it contains calcium, iron, phosphorus, nitrogen, ammonia, carbonic acid, manganese, sulphur, phosphates, potassium, amino acids, enzymes, cytokine and lactose. Bhadauria (2002) found that cow\'s urine can be as effective as standard drugs against a wide range of diseases caused by plant pathogens, including ofloxacin, cefpodoxime, gentamycin, and amphotericin B. Several phenolic acids (gallic acid, caffeic acid, ferulic acid, o-coumaric acid, cinnamic acid and salicylic acid) found in cow urine may have inhibited the pathogen’s spore germination. The obtained results are in line with the study conducted by Deshmukh et al. (2012) who evaluated the antifungal activity of cow urine at different concentrations against wide range of plant pathogens and found that cow urine at 10 and 20 per cent concentrations were more effective in inhibiting the spore germination of Alternaria solani. Garg and Kumhar (2020) evaluated cow urine against A. solani at four different concentrations (5, 10, 15 and 20 %) under in vitro condition. Their results revealed that cow urine (20 %) was the most effective in inhibiting the mycelial growth (78.49 %) than other concentrations tested. The results are in confirmation with the works of Sumangala and Patil (2009); Sharma et al. (2010); Pandia et al. (2019) who worked on antifungal activity of cow urine against Alternaria sp. on different crops and recorded spore germination inhibition at different concentrations.\r\n \r\n','Vijaykumar K.N., Shripad Kulkarni, Patil P.V., Kambrekar D.N. and Shashidhar T.R. (2022). Eco-friendly Management of Purple Blotch of Garlic caused by Alternaria porri (Ellis) Ciferri. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 14(2): 1406-1412.'),(5071,'125','Evaluation of High Resin Yielding Half Sib Families of Chir Pine for Oleo-Resin Yield Traits in North Western Himalayas','Rajender Kumar*, Sankhyan H.P. and Rajneesh Kumar','244 Evaluation of High Resin Yielding Half Sib Families of Chir Pine for Oleo-Resin Yield Traits in North Western Himalayas Rajender Kumar.pdf','',1,'Availability of high resin yielding families of chir pine is scared in Himachal Pradesh, therefore, there is growing need to identify these families, so the research was conducted at the Shilli Conservation Reserve, Solan, Himachal Pradesh to evaluate the high resin yielding half sib families of chir pine for oleo-resin yield parameters. Chir pine was studied for various parameters like oleoresin yield, turpentine content, rosin content and rosin colour in 95 plants from different 19 seed sources. The trees with yellow (13 B) colour oleoresin are found to be higher yielder, followed by trees with yellowish-white colour (10 B) while trees with white (155 A & B) colour oleoresin have been observed to be low yielder. The seed of these high resin yielding families can be used in establishment of seed orchard to increase its number of populations so as to increase the overall resin production.','Resin, Chir pine, Seed, Colour, Yield','In the end it can be concluded that evaluation of chirpine diversity can be very useful in qualitative and quantitative improvement of different traits studied. Families which show higher oleoresin yield, rosin content, turpentine content and oleoresin content can be used for establishment of orchard to increase there population so as to increase the overall resin production. ','INTRODUCTION\r\nPinus roxburghii Sargent (Chir pine or long needle pine), is one of the most important conifers of north-western Himalayas and is an important timber and resin yielding species (Rawat et al., 2014). The genus Pinus contains 110 to 120 species that are found in the Northern Hemisphere\'s temperate regions (Price et al., 1998), Pinus roxburghii Sargent, Pinus wallichiana Jackson, Pinus gerardiana Wall., Pinus kesiya Royleex Gord, and Pinus armandi French are the five pines native to India. Pinus roxburghii Sargent, for example, is one of the Himalayan region\'s most principal conifers, is commercially harvested for resin (CSIR, 1969) and influences the lives of various ethnic and other groups in the region. (Tiwari, 1994). Pinus roxburghii Sargent, also known as ‘Chir-pine; Chir; Chil,\' belongs to the Pinaceae. Chir pine covers 14,356 km2 in the country\'s forests, where it is the most common species and accounts for more than 25 per cent of the total of the order Coniferales. It is distributed in the monsoon belt of the outer Himalaya from Arunachal Pradesh in India to north-western parts of Pakistan (Bhat et al., 2016). Its bark is red-brown in colour and grows thick, deeply and longitudinally fissured andit reaches up to height of 55 m and over 100 cm diameter at breast height (Ghildiyal et al., 2010). Among the many uses of Chir pine, one of the most common non-wood products is oleoresin, which is primarily obtained from it. Oleoresin is the mixture of two components i.e. volatile turpentine oil and solid transparent material (Chauhan et al., 2022). The process of acquiring of resin is called as resin tapping (Hadiyane et al., 2015). Earlier, India used to export resin, but now consumes all its production internally through its small- and large-scale industries. With the increase in day by demand of oleoresin, the dependency on the clones has increased significantly because the oleoresin production from natural stands is insufficient to meet the basic requirement of the resin-based industries (Dutt et al., 2019). To reduce the gap between the demand and supply it has now become necessary to identify superior progenies or clones through breeding programmes such as half-sib progeny evaluation. Therefore, this research was conducted at Shilli conservation reserve to evaluate the high resin yielding half sib families of chir pine for oleo-resin yield traits.\r\nMATERIALS AND METHODS\r\nThe experiment was conducted at Shilli conservation reserve, Solan, Himachal Pradesh during 2020-2021 season where a block plantation of high resin yielders from19 seed source of Himachal Pradesh having high oleo resin properties, was established in 1982. Statistical design employed was Randomized Block Design (RBD). The method employed for oleoresin collection was bore hole method as described by Lekha (2002a); Kumar and Sharma (2007) (Plate 1). The Girmit of 1.0-inch diameter was used for drilling holes as described by Lekha (2002b); Kumar and Sharma (2005). The holes were drilled with slight slope towards opening, so that oleoresin drains freely. The chemical stimulants (10% ethephon and 20% H2SO4) were sprayed with the help of spray bottle (Plate 1). The spouts were fixed in the holes tightly. The plastic-bags made of high-density polyethylene (HDPE) were attached to the spout of each hole with the help of tie for collection of oleoresins and replaced only when filled with oleoresin during the period of tapping (Plate 2). Analysis of oleoresin was done by recording various parameters like oleoresin color, turpentine content, rosin content and rosin color. Turpentine is semi fluid substances obtained by distillation of resin while rosin is solid form of resin obtained from pines mostly conifers. Oleoresin yield was also calculated from different half sib families of chir pine.\r\nOn the basis of color, oleoresin and rosin was categorized into three colors i.e. yellow, yellowish white and white. Twenty-five gram of oleoresin sample was taken in 1000 ml round bottom flask and 250 ml of water was added to it. The flask was fixed to Clevenger\'s apparatus and was heated with frequent agitation, until abolition commenced, heating was continued for about an hour and after cooling for at least 5 minutes the volumes of turpentine in the graduated portion of tube was noted. The distillation was continued until successive readings of the volume of turpentine did not differ (Persad, 1983). Turpentine content was extracted from oleoresin by using Clevenger’s apparatus and calculated by the formula given below:\r\nTurpentine per cent (ml/g) = X /25 ×100\r\nX = volume of turpentine in ml\r\nRosin content was calculated by using the formula given by Sharma (1987):\r\n Rosin per cent = Y/25 ×100\r\n Where \r\n Y = Weight of rosin in g\r\n 25 = Weight of sample in g\r\nThe data were statistically analyzed using software OPSTAT (Sheoran et al., 1998).\r\nRESULTS AND DISCUSSION\r\nOleoresin Yield. The data on oleoresin yield from various families is shown in Table 1 and Fig. 1. The average oleoresin yield was found to be 430.97 g. The highest oleoresin yield, 780.8 g, was found in the Hamirpur (T14) family. The Jassi (T5) family had the lowest oleoresin yield of 251 g. Oleoresin yield is hereditary and it depends upon the genetics of tree species (Papajiannopoulos, 2002). Environmental factors like light, temperature and moisture status of tree (Dudareva et al., 2004). Highest oleoresin is reported in Hamirpur family because of their greater diameter. Trees having dark green needle colour have highest oleoresin yield. Similar results were reported by Chaudhari et al. (1992); Murtem (1998).\r\nTurpentine Content. Table 1 shows the data for the turpentine content of 19 half sib families. The turpentine content of oleoresin ranged from 19.45 (%) to 25.4 (%). Hamirpur (T14) family 25.4 (%) had the greatest proportion of turpentine content. For the Mahasu (T18) family, a minimum value of 19.10(%) was obtained. Turpentine content is related with oleoresin yield, it means if oleoresin yield of a tree species in high its turpentine content is automatically high. Similar result is reported by Sukarno et al. (2015a); Sukarno et al. (2020b) in Pinus merkusii.\r\nRosin Content. Rosin content of oleoresin of different half sib families was shown in Table 1. The Mahasu (T18) family had the highest rosin content 78.60(%), while the Hamirpur (T14) family had the lowest 72.68(%). Mahasu family have higher rosin content because of its greater needle length. Similar result was reported by Bhatt (2015); Sharma et al. (2015) in Pinus roxburghii.\r\nOleoresin Content. The data related to oleoresin colour are presented in Table 2. It was observed that 38 genotype possessed yellow (13 B) coloured oleoresin, 29 genotype possessed yellowish white (10B) coloured oleoresin and 28 genotype possessed only white (155 A & B) coloured oleoresin. The trees with yellow (13 B) colour oleoresin are found to be higher yielder, followed by trees with white (155A& B) colour oleoresin have been observed to be low yielder. The low oleoresin yield of white coloured oleoresin families may be attributable to genetic constitution of families and can operate as an oleoresin yield indicator. Similar work has been reported by Sikarwar (2011) in Pinus roxburghii Sargent. Maximum percentage of rosin was observed in Mahasu (T18) family (78.6%) while the Hamirpur (T14) origin had the minimum rosin content. Hamirpur (T14) family 25.4 (%) had the greatest proportion of turpentine content. For the Mahasu (T18) family, a minimum value of 19.10(%) was obtained.','Rajender Kumar, Sankhyan H.P. and Rajneesh Kumar (2022). Evaluation of High Resin Yielding Half Sib Families of Chir Pine for Oleo-Resin Yield Traits in North Western Himalayas. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 14(2): 1413-1418.'),(5072,'125','Advances in Non-thermal Technologies in Food Processing: A Review','Anupama Anand, Manisha Kaushal, Devina Vaidya, Anil Gupta, Harpreet Kaur Saini, Ruchi Sharma, Chahat Thakur, Anjali Gautam, Dileep K.C., Ankita Sharma, Rashi and Suprava Basnett','245 Advances in Non-thermal Technologies in Food Processing A Review Dileep KC.pdf','',1,'Consumers nowadays are demanding for clean and safe food without disrupting the nutritional and sensory qualities of food. To extend the shelf life of food, various thermal treatments are applied during processes. However, the nutritive and sensory qualities of the commodity may suffer as a result of these thermal processes. Consumers today demand food that is not only safe and wholesome, but also has good organoleptic qualities. This is why the development and advancement of non-thermal technologies that are secure, safe, and environmentally friendly have captured the attention of the food industry. In non-thermal processing technology the food is processed in room temperature, this reduces damage to food because heat-sensitive nutritious material stays intact in the food in contrary to thermal processing of food. These non-thermal technologies can be utilized for processing all kinds of food like fruits, vegetables, spices, pulses, meat, fish, etc. Non-thermal technologies have emerged largely in the last few decades in food sector. These methods of food processing achieve microbial inactivation without damaging the food\'s nutritional content or sensory qualities. They also increase product shelf life and preserve the fresh-like physical, nutritional, and sensory qualities of the food. These cutting-edge technologies, such as high hydrostatic pressure, pulsed electric fields, high-intensity ultrasound, ultraviolet light, pulsed light, ionising radiation, and oscillating magnetic fields, can inactivate microorganisms to varying degrees. With only minor nutritional losses, all food types, including fruits, vegetables, pulses, spices, meat, fish, etc., can be processed using these non-thermal technologies. Non-thermal technologies have grown in importance in the food industry over the last few decades. As a result, there is a need to research and develop these non-thermal technologies because they are becoming more and more important in the food industry.','Preservation, Food Technology, Microorganisms, Food Safety and Inactivation.','New preservation technologies are an interesting option to produce high quality food products with an extended shelf life. The starting point of an evaluation of the possibilities of new technologies will thus be the effect on quality combined with the safety of the product after processing. Irradiation, ultrasound under pressure, HHP and PEF are effective procedures to inactivate vegetative micro-organisms in foods, but the high adaptability of spores limits their use as a sole system for food preservation. Thus, these new technologies are chancing usages as hurdles that assure food safety through microbial inactivation in minimally reused high quality products. To completely exploit their potentiality, further exploration work is demanded to clarify mechanisms of inactivation, especially for HHP and PEF, to more understand the effect of environmental factors, and the circumstance of stress adaption and sub-lethal injury, aspects of great applicability regarding food safety. Further, interest in non-thermal food processing technologies has increased appreciably in the once decade. Also, minimum processing ways similar as ultraviolet (UV) light treatment meet these conditions. The use of UV- C light treatment proved to be effective at reducing microbial loads of pathogens on fresh fruits and vegetables. Current limitations of arising non-thermal technologies can be overcome when they are combined with conventional preservation styles. Especially using advanced or lower temperatures than room temperature is an intriguing option to increase the effectiveness of new technologies.','-','Anupama Anand, Manisha Kaushal, Devina Vaidya, Anil Gupta, Harpreet Kaur Saini, Ruchi Sharma, Chahat Thakur, Anjali Gautam, Dileep K.C., Ankita Sharma, Rashi and Suprava Basnett (2022). Advances in Non-thermal Technologies in Food Processing: A Review. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 14(2): 1419-1428.'),(5073,'125','Physical and Engineering properties of Fertilizers Relevant to Design of a Precision Ferti Drill','Nenavath Manikyam, A. Carolin Rathinakumari, A.K. Dave and G. Senthil Kuamran','246 Physical and Engineering properties of Fertilizers Relevant to Design of a Precision Ferti Drill Nenavath Manikyam.pdf','',1,'Fertilizers play vital role in the production of crop cultivation. The engineering properties such as physical and mechanical properties of fertilizers viz., Diammonium Phosphate (DAP), NPK complex, Single Super Phosphate (SSP), urea, Muriate of Potash (MOP) were measured in order to design and develop the tractor operated, target oriented ferti-drill for high density guava orchard. The physical properties were measured namely length, width, thickness, geometric mean diameter, bulk density, true density, angle of repose and coefficient of friction were measured. The highest length, breadth and geometric mean diameter (GMD) were noticed for Single Super Phosphate (SSP) i.e 4.20±0.52 mm, 3.56±0.43 mm and 3.59±0.39 mm respectively and NPK complex had the highest thickness as 3.26±0.51 mm. The highest bulk density and true density were observed in case of Muriate of Potash (MOP) i.e 1123.91±4.19 kg m-3 and NPK complex i.e 1989.28±836.39 kg m-3, respectively. The Muriate of Potash (MOP) had the maximum angle of repose as 39.82±0.98˚. The rubber surface had the highest coefficient of static friction i.e 38.60±1.42, 38.30±1.25, 30.10±0.73, 39.20±1.13 and 37.10±0.99 for DAP, NPK Complex, SSP, Urea and MOP respectively. The glass surface had the lowest coefficient of static friction i.e 25.30±1.05, 25.20±0.91, 22.10±1.10, 24.50±0.52 and 31.20±1.61 for DAP, NPK Complex, SSP, Urea and MOP respectively. The determined physical properties and engineering properties were used to design and develop the precision fertilizer applicator.','Fertilizers, Engineering properties and Physical properties.','The physical and engineering properties of selected granular fertilizers were studied for design of precision fertilizer applicator for crop cultivation. The size of fertilizers were significantly different. Hence, separation of fertilizers after mixing to compute the coefficient of uniformity by physical method is possible. As the highest angle of repose to be 39.82˚. The fertilizer hopper should be designed having a side slope greater than 40˚. The material should be \r\ngalvanised iron as it had the least coefficient of friction among the materials considered under study compared with nature. However, it is recommended that stainless steel and non-reactive coating suitable fertilizer may be studied and its for hopper.\r\n','-','Nenavath Manikyam, A. Carolin Rathinakumari, A.K. Dave and G. Senthil Kuamran (2022). Physical and Engineering properties of Fertilizers Relevant to Design of a Precision Ferti Drill. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 14(2): 1429-1433.'),(5074,'125','Effect of Integrated Weed Management on Weed Dynamics in Spring Maize','Vishvajeet D. Jadhav, Santosh Korav, Sujatha H.T. and Chandra Mohan Mehta','247 Effect of Integrated Weed Management on Weed Dynamics in Spring Maize Vishvajeet D.pdf','',1,'Maize (Zea mays L.) is a versatile cereal crop farmed in a variety of environments and geographical areas for human nourishment, livestock feed and fodder, and industrial raw materials. Weeds are the major problem which causes 30-40 percent of the applied nutrients lost and 40-45% decreased crop yield. Chemical application leads to create herbicide resistant weed biotype. Integrated weed management is best option to manage weeds properly. Keeping in view, experiment was layout in RBD with 12 treatments and replicated thrice. Among all the treatments, the lowest weed density and its dry matter (DM) and highest weed control efficiency (WCE) was found in T2 (weed free upto harvest), followed by T3 (two hoeing at 15 and 30 DAS) which was statistically at par with T12 (CCRIJAF nail weeder at 6 and 20 DAE) and T11 (Residue mulch and hand pulling of weeds at 25 DAS). Among chemical methods, layby application of atrazine after 20 to 25 DAS (T4) recorded lower WD, weed DM and higher WCE which was statistically similar with T5 (layby application of pendimethalin), T9 (atrazine + tembotrione), T8 (atrazine + halosulfuron) but statistically differed with Single dose applications of post-emergence herbicides like topramezone, tembotrione and halosulfuron.','WCE, weed density, dry matter, tembotrione, halosulfuron, hand pulling, crop residue.','Effect of different weed management methods significantly differed with respect to weed dynamics in spring maize. Weed free up to maturity of the crop showed superior control with recording the lowest weed population, and WD and higher WCE when compared to other weed management methods. Keeping the plot weed free by two hoeing at 15 and 30 DAS has recorded better weed control and was statistically similar with other mechanical methods like CRIJAF weeder at 6 and 20 DAE of crop and maize + rice crop residue mulch. Among chemical methods, lay by application atrazine was better than layby application of pendimethalin and atrazine (PE) + tembotrione (POE) but statistically similar with each other. Single dose of POE herbicides showed less control over weeds. Whereas, the highest WD and its DM and lowest WCE was found in weedy check.','-',' Vishvajeet D. Jadhav, Santosh Korav, Sujatha H.T. and Chandra Mohan Mehta (2022). Effect of Integrated Weed Management on Weed Dynamics in Spring Maize. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 14(2): 1434-1438.'),(5075,'125','Screening of Rice Genotypes and Assessment of Biophysical characters Conferring Resistance Against Pink Stem borer, Sesamia inferens Walker (Lepidoptera: Noctuidae)','S. Geerthana, C. Gailce Leo Justin, R. P. Soundararajan and P. Jeyaprakash','248 Screening of Rice Genotypes and Assessment of Biophysical characters Conferring Resistance Against Pink Stem borer, Sesamia inferens Walker _Lepidoptera Noctuidae_ S.pdf','',1,'Rice (Oryza sativa L.),the major staple food of Asian countries is attacked by several insect pests. The changing insect pest scenario at various cropping system encourages emergence of new insect pests. In rice, minor pests are gaining importance as major pest with significant damage. Pink stem borer (Sesamia inferens Walker) is causing damage to rice crop during reproductive stage and the damage is high during the panicle initiation and seed setting stage, which in turn causes great economic loss. A study was carried out with 70 rice germplasm, including Improved White Ponni (IWP), five local check varieties, one resistant (TKM 6) and one susceptible (TN-1) for their level of resistance and characterization. The results indicated that six rice genotypes were categorized as highly resistant based on dead heart damage and five lines as highly resistant according white ear infestation. The rice genotypes with highest trichome density on upper surface of leaf blade, less leaf angle, high auricle circumference, high ligule length, small stem girth and less leaf area conferred resistance to pink stem borer with minimum dead heart and white ear. The identified genotypes will be exploited for the purpose of varietal improvement in the breeding programme for resistance against pink stem borer as a new emerging rice pest.','stem circumference, leaf angle, trichomes, oviposition','Screening of rice genotypes against pink stem borer concluded that the genotypes RG12, RG36, RG56, RG76, RG85, RG91 and RG188 showed nil dead heart damage whereas RG12, RG15, RG56, RG76 and RG188 recorded with nil white ear damage and categorized as highly resistant genotypes. The resistant genotypes identified were RG15, RG22, RG26, RG42, RG60, RG69, RG70, RG151, RG160, RG176, RG182 and RG190 at vegetative stage and during reproductive stage were RG22, RG34, RG42, RG91, RG160, RG176 and RG182. The biophysical characters viz., auricle circumference, stem circumference, upper blade pubescence and leaf angle influenced the resistant nature of the genotypes against pink stem borer (Fig. 1). These genotypes with resistant traits can be utilized for varietal improvement in the breeding programme for resistance against pink stem borer as a new emerging rice pest.','INTRODUCTION\r\nRice being the major staple food crop in the world owes the production of 519.3 million tonnes (FAOSTAT, 2021). In India, the rice production in the year 2021 attained 122 million metric tonnes (FAOSTAT, 2021). Among the various insect pests of rice, the stem borer species complex viz., YSB (Yellow stem borer, Scirpophaga incertulas), PSB (Pink stem borer, Sesamia inferens), DHB (Dark headed borer, Chilo suppressalis), WHB (White stem borer,\r\nScirpophaga innotata) and SSB (Striped stem borer, Chilo polychrysus) have shown geographic variation, damage occurrence in various parts across the country. In southern regions, the dominant species recorded are YSB and PSB (Prakash et al., 2005). The genetic base of cultivated crops is broadened by the genepool of genotypes, landraces and wild species (Harian, 1976). The damage symptoms for pink stem borer confers to “dead hearts” during vegetative stage and “white ears” during reproductive stage (Singh, 2012). Pink stem borer is considered as major stem borer pest causing damage to millet crops. However, recent reports indicated that rice crop is also severely damaged by the species. One among important component in the management of pink stem borer is host plant resistance. Research works on identification and development of resistant varieties for the emerging pest, pink stem borer in rice is in preliminary stage. In the present study attempts were made to screen rice genotypes against pink stem borer and morphological characterisation of resistance.\r\nMATERIAL AND METHODS\r\nField screening of rice genotypes were carried out at Anbil Dharmalingam Agricultural College and Research Institute, Tiruchirapalli, Tamil Nadu, during Rabi season 2021-22. Occurrence of pink stem borer, S.inferens is common in the rice growing areas of Trichy district, Tamil Nadu during Rabi season. A total of 61 rice genotypes, IWP, five local check varieties, one resistant (TKM 6) and one susceptible (TN-1) varieties were taken for screening experiment. The rice genotypes were sown in the nursery later transplanted in the main field in two rows at 3 m with a spacing of 20 × 10 cm and replicated thrice. The experiment was carried out in Randomised Block Design (RBD).\r\nThe rice genotypes were evaluated to assess the resistance for pink stem borer. The rice genotypes were observed for their reaction to pink stem borer. All the agronomic practices were carried out without spraying any insecticides. The symptom of dead heart and white ear observations were observed. Dead heart count were observed at 30, 45, 60 DAT whereas white ear was recorded at 75, 90 DAT, before harvest and the mean data was worked out. After counting, destructive sampling method was done for the confirmation of pink stem borer.\r\nThe pink stem borer infestation was assessed by counting the number of dead hearts (DH) in the initial stage of damage and number of white ear heads (WEH) at late stage from five randomly selected plants. The dead heart and white ear were calculated using the formula by IRRI (Table 1).\r\nDead heart (%)= (Number of dead hearts )/(Total number of tillers) × 100\r\nWhite ear (%)=(Number of white ears )/(Total number of productive tillers) ×100\r\nObservations of pink stem borer eggmass Observations were made to assess the ovipositional preference of pink stem borer on each rice genotype by counting the number of egg mass/plant under natural field condition from the screening trial. Three replications were maintained for each rice accession/variety. \r\nBiophysical basis of resistance. Among the total of 70 genotypes, 16 genotypes were sorted out for assessing biophysical characterisation with pink stem borer damage. The data on biophysical attributes were correlated with pink stem borer damage. Three replications were maintained for each rice genotype and three plants were maintained for each replication.\r\nAuricle circumference. It is a pair of hairy, sickle shaped appendage located near the junction of collar and rice leaf sheath. Auricle circumference was taken using measuring scale and recorded. The observations were recorded from five plants and replicated for five times.\r\nLigule length. A translucent membrane or a fringe of hairs known as ligule was measured according to procedure followed by Zeng et al. (2009). During heading stage, five plants were chosen at random, from the main tiller, length of the ligule was measured from the flag leaf. \r\nPlant height. The plant height was measured from the soil surface to the tip of the panicle for five plants (Ntanos and Koutroubas 2000). \r\nStem girth. The stem diameter for each rice genotype was measured at ground level, in five plants (Ntanos and Koutroubas, 2000). \r\nUpper blade pubescence. The trichome density of rice leaf in different genotypes was estimated as per the procedure described by Maite et al. (1980). Leaf blade pubescence was observed at the booting stage of the plant. Leaf samples collected were cut into bits of 5.0 cm and boiled in 20 ml of water for 15 minutes in hot water bath at 85°C. The remaining water was poured out retained with the leaves and boiled after adding 20 ml of 96 per cent ethanol for 20 minutes at 80oC. The excess alcohol was poured off and the boiling process was continued. After removing alcohol 90 per cent lactic acid was added and boiled at 85°C until the leaf segments got cleared. The vials were then cooled and leaves were taken and mounted on clean slides using a drop of lactic acid to observe the trichome density. The pubescence density per cm2 on abaxial surface of leaf segments was counted under compound microscope (45x magnification). For each rice genotypes, five replications were maintained and the descriptions were taken from the penultimate leaves from randomly chosen plants. Leaf trichome density was categorised as glabrous (scale 1), intermediate (scale 2) and pubescent (scale 3) as per standard protocol (Bioversity International, IRRI and WARDA, 2007). \r\nLeaf angle. The openness leaf angle was measured with leaf blade tip against the leaf culm. At the growth period of 39 days, the leaf angle was measured using the protractor with its 900 set vertical to the penultimate leaf and flag leaf (Yoshida, 1981). The flag leaf attitude was scored as erect (score 1), semi erect / intermediate (score 3), horizontal (score 5) and deflexed/ descending/drooping (scale 7). The position of the tip of the leaf blade relative to its base, scored on the leaf below the flag leaf (penultimate leaf) was called leaf blade attitude, which was measured at the late vegetative stage (prior to heading). It was categorised as erect, horizontal and drooping (Bioversity International, IRRI and WARDA. 2007). \r\nStatistical analysis. The data collected in the field experiment on dead heart and white ear damage was subjected to ANOVA for significance of variation using AGRES software. The biophysical traits of different rice genotypes were subjected to correlation analysis with pink stem borer damage and oviposition preference using MS Excel software.\r\nRESULTS AND DISCUSSION\r\nThe results of field screening revealed a significant difference in the level of resistance based on the damage symptoms for stem borer and destructive sampling method was followed for the confirmation of pink stem borer larva. The dead heart and white ear symptoms were clearly defined and scaled using SES (Table 1). Out of 61 rice genotypes, at vegetative stage(dead heart %) seven lines showed nil dead heart damage viz., RG12, RG36, RG56, RG76, RG85, RG91 and RG188, whereas the lines with nil white ear damage viz., RG12, RG15, RG56, RG76 and RG188 were categorised as highly resistant genotypes. The minimum and maximum dead heart damage recorded was 2.0 per cent in RG160 and 68.21 per cent in RG32 respectively. The minimum and maximum white ear damage was recorded in RG176 (3.06%) and RG48 (64.8%) respectively. Similarly, the resistant check TKM 6 recorded damage of 13.17% at and 4.68% at vegetative stage and reproductive stage respectively. \r\nObservations were recorded for resistant and moderately resistant lines. From the scoring at vegetative stage, the lines which showed resistance are RG15, RG22, RG26, RG42, RG60, RG69, RG70, RG151, RG160, RG176, RG182 and RG190 and the local check variety TRY 2. The lines which are resistant during reproductive stage are RG22,\r\nRG34, RG42, RG91, RG160, RG176 and RG182 along with the local check variety TRY 2. The rice genotypes which were recorded as moderately resistant based on dead heart were RG33, RG35, RG39, RG51, RG62, RG68, RG89, RG92, RG99, RG100, RG106, RG154, RG175 and RG189 along with I.W.P. and local check variety TRY1 and TRY 5. The rice lines with the characters of moderately resistant during reproductive stage of the plant were RG2, RG33, RG36, RG151, RG190 and I.W.P. and TRY 5.\r\nIn the susceptible check, TN1 dead heart and white ear was 61.45% and 44.56% respectively. In the resistant check TKM 6, the dead heart and white ear percentage was 13.17% and 4.68% respectively. Most of the screening trials are targeted for yellow stem borer resistance in rice genotypes. Devasena et al. (2018) reported the dead heart damage in TN1 and TKM 6 as 28.0% and 92.0% in the artificial screening of rice genotypes for yellow stem borer resistance. Rice genotypes 38 were screened to yellow stem borer, from that 21 lines showed resistant, 9 lines showed moderately resistant, 2 lines appeared susceptible and the rest 6 lines showed moderately susceptible (Reuolin et al., 2019). Very few attempts were made on screening for pink stem borer resistance in rice varieties. Of the 84 rice genotypes screened in Uttar Pradesh, India against pink stem borer eight cultivars were classified as resistant, 11 cultivars as moderately resistant and the remaining cultivars were susceptible\r\nor highly susceptible (Garg, 1984). In the present study, results revealed that highly resistant varieties showed nil or less ovipositional preference towards the highly pubescent genotypes. Screening of 29 rice cultivars was done against panicle mite in West Bengal for evolving new resistant varieties (Mukhopadhyay et al., 2017).\r\nObservations on the number of egg mass/plant showed a significant difference between highly resistant, resistant, susceptible and highly susceptible genotypes (Table 2). Trichomes or leaf blade pubescence are either unicellular or multicellular in structures clearly present on various surface of plant organs which includes glumes, leaves, hulls, roots, stems and flowers (Yu et al., 2010). The presence of two types of hairs in rice leaves viz., micro and macro hairs, whereas micro hairs are located along stomatal cells and macro hairs are located on silica cells over a thin vascular bundle (Hu et al., 2013). Highly susceptible genotypes had maximum egg mass (8.60 no./plant) (RG32) and highly resistant genotypes had nil egg mass (0.00 no./plant) (RG12, RG15 and RG36). All the biophysical attributes were correlated with the number of egg mass per plant. Ovipositional behaviour had a significant positive correlation with dead hearts and white heads in rice (Rustamani et al., 2002). The less number of egg masses in the rice genotypes suffered less damage from stem borer (Hosseini et al., 2011). In the present study also the upper blade pubescence was found to be negatively correlated with the egg mass (r = -0.93). The plant heights for different genotypes varied from 67 to 149 cm. In the present study, results for plant height correlation showed a negative or relation with damage for different rice genotypes. The results obtained are in accordance with the findings of Ntanos and Koutroubas (2000).The larvae of pink stem borer is little stout when compared with other larvae of stem borer species. Results for stem diameter showed significantly positive correlation between resistant status (r = 0.69). Eggs are laid in two or more imbricated rows up to a total of 200 eggs, which are of uniform size and are covered by a thin waxy or gummy material (Rahman, 1945). Some cluster of eggs were also laid in groups of two to three on auricle (Joshi, 2005). The length of the auricle circumference was maximum in resistant genotypes (0.31 cm to 0.45 cm) which in turn affects the egg laying in the auricles. The susceptible genotypes had minimum auricle circumference in the range from 0.07 cm to 0.19 cm. Habib (2005) has reported that C. partellus reduced the maize yield, plant height and stem diameter more adversely in susceptible genotypes as compared to the resistant ones and differed significantly.\r\nThe trichomes were more on the upper surface of the leaf ranging from 11.39 to 86.70 no./cm2/leaf which confers resistance (Table 2). The highly susceptible genotypes had trichome density ranging from 10.26 to 14.56 no./cm2/leaf as against 87.56 to 91.25 no./cm2/leaf in highly resistant variety and categorised as glabrous (scale 1). Those results are in accordance to the finding, that the leaf pubescence plays a major component in the antixenosis resistance in rice genotypes to rice yellow stem borer (Sharmitha et al., 2019), rice striped stem borer (Zhu et al., 2007). Rao and Panwar (2000) found positive correlation between pubescence\r\nand leaf injury score which is the main contributing factor. Dalin et al. (2008) reported decreased plant damage by herbivorous insects significantly negative with increasing trichome density. Rakesh et al. (2021) reported on correlation for trichome density and yellow stem borer damage whereas, stem girth was significantly positively correlated at vegetative stage and negatively correlated at the reproductive stage and plant height showed a significant positive correlation. \r\n \r\nThe penultimate leaf angle of highly resistant genotypes/varieties ranged from 1.330 to 3.330 (scale 1- erect leaf attitude) and highly susceptible genotypes ranged from 77.50° to 86.70° (scale 7 – drooping/deflexed/descending) (Table 3). Resistant and susceptible genotypes had semi-erect and horizontal leaf attitudes. The leaf angle of highly resistant cultures were categorised as vertical/erect leaf attitude. Resistant (R) genotypes showed semi erect leaf attitude, susceptible (S) and highly susceptible (HS) genotypes/ varieties showed horizontal leaf attitude. The leaf inserted at an angle was most important feature which is related to yield. Erect leaved plants showed higher silica content and hence higher interception of light and Photosynthetically Active Radiation (PAR) absorption which leads to reduced preference for egg laying. The susceptibility was observed more when leaf angle is maximum and resistant characters was observed where leaf angle was more. Plants with this nearly obtuse leaf attitude have greater Leaf Area Index (LAI), which reduces the photosynthetic rate because leaves shadow one another and absorption of PAR is also less and has low silica content, hence were preferred for egg laying (Keulen,1986). The content of silica in rice leaves causes vertical positioning of the leaves and hence the larger portion of the leaf is exposed to sun and least or not preferred for oviposition (Thilagam et al., 2014). In resistance screening for rice stem borers, the leaf angle and stem diameter plays an important role for varietal development (El-Adl et al., 2011). The nutrient silica addition to the plants, decreases the leaf angle, which relatively modifies the architecture of the leaves and the erect leaves are predominant when supplied with silica (Zanao Junior et al., 2010). Leaf angle and stem diameter plays an important role for varietal development for resistance to stem borers (El-Adl et al., 2011). The stem diameter for different genotypes varied from 0.8 to 3.5 cm. The maize germplasm showing more resistance against Chilo partellus has less height, broader leaves and less compact whorl (Sharma and Chatterji, 1972). The correlation studies for flag leaf angle and cholorophyll content index has significantly positive correlation with grain yield.\r\nPlant height in relation to damage and egg mass showed a positive correlation and egg mass against the plant height also showed positive correlation (Table 4). The incidence was more when the circumference of stem was more and less in the genotypes with less circumference and showed a significantly positive correlation (r = +0.69). Auricle circumference and the intense of damage by the pink stem borer was significant and negative correlated (r = -0.76) which reveals that the maximum circumference leads to the less number of egg mass and the correlation for egg mass against auricle circumference showed significantly negative correlation (r = -0.91). The ligule length when correlated with eggmass showed a negative correlation. The upper blade pubescence against damage and egg mass revealed a significantly negative correlation (r = -0.79) and (r = -0.93) respectively. The penultimate leaf angle showed a significant and positive correlation for both damage (r = +0.66) and egg mass (r = +0.65) respectively. A significant positive correlation between damage (r = +0.52) and egg mass (r = +0.61) was observed. The PSB egg mass and damage were significant and positively correlated (r=+0.80).\r\n','S. Geerthana, C. Gailce Leo Justin, R.P. Soundararajan and P. Jeyaprakash (2022). Screening of Rice Genotypes and Assessment of Biophysical characters Conferring Resistance Against Pink Stem borer, Sesamia inferens Walker (Lepidoptera: Noctuidae). Biological Forum – An International Journal, 14(2): 1439-1445.'),(5076,'125','Productivity and Profitability of Toria (Brassica campestris L. var. toria) as Influenced by Integrated Nutrient Management in Trans-Gangetic plains of Punjab','Sandal Choudhary, Barkha, Sayan Sau and Kangujam Bokado','249 Productivity and Profitability of Toria _Brassica campestris L. var.pdf','',1,' Considering the current scenario of rising population but stagnant cultivable area, there is a need to enhance crop productivity. Usually, over-application of chemical fertilizers in high-yielding cultivars are used to achieve this objective which is not only reducing agricultural net profit but also deteriorating the soil and human health. Thus, present study was undertaken to evaluate alternatives like INM approach in order to overcome this challenge. The experiment was conducted in randomized block design with three replications and eight treatments comprising different doses of RDF with biocompost in combination with SOB and PSB on during the Rabi season of 2021-22 at Agriculture farm, School of Agriculture, Lovely Professional University, Phagwara. The maximum plant height was recorded under the application of 75% RDF +5 t/ha biocompost + SOB @ 10 ml/kg seed (T5) at 30, 60 and 90 DAS interval which was 61.13, 117.53, and 133.89 cm, respectively. At 30, 60 and 90 DAS, number of leaves per plant were found to be highest (6.79, 37.50, 12.09 respectively) under T3 i.e., application of 75% RDF + 5 t/ha biocompost, while 75% RDF + 5 t/ha biocompost + PSB @ 10 ml/kg seed (T4) resulted in higher number of branches per plant (2.51, 6.17, 9.85) at different stages of growth in 30, 60 and 90 DAS, respectively. Yield attributes, cost of cultivation, gross returns, net returns and B:C ratio significantly increased with the application of 75 % RDF + 5 t/ha biocompost + SOB @ 10 ml/kg seed (T5). The results achieved can pave a better path for attaining the goal of higher productivity, profitability as well as sustainability.','Integrated nutrient management, Biocompost, Agricultural productivity.','As evident from the results, application of 75% RDF + 5 t/ha biocompost in conjugation with either SOB or PSB produced better growth and yield attributes, yield and economic returns in toria. Therefore, it can be concluded that for achieving better crop productivity and profitability in toria, it is better to go with integrated nutrient management practices over sole use of chemical fertilizers. This will also aid in maintaining environmental quality as well as in achieving agricultural sustainability.','-','Sandal Choudhary, Barkha, Sayan Sau and Kangujam Bokado (2022). Productivity and Profitability of Toria (Brassica campestris L. var. toria) as Influenced by Integrated nutrient management in Trans-Gangetic plains of Punjab. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 14(2): 1446-1450.'),(5077,'125','Evaluation of Half Sib Progenies of Guava var. Arka Kiran for Fruit Yield and Quality','Sanjana U., M. Kavino, J. Auxcilia and M. Raveendran','250 Evaluation of Half Sib Progenies of Guava var.pdf','',1,'Guava (Psidium guajava L) is one of the commercially important fruit crops being cultivated in India. Of late, red pulp varieties are getting commercial importance due to its consumer preference. However, red pulp varieties are having higher number of seeds with bold seed size, which limits its wide acceptance. Hence, in the present study it is focussed to identify genotypes with deep pink or red colour pulp with few soft seeds. From 337 half sib progenies of guava var. Arka Kiran established during 2013-2014, twelve half sib progenies were chosen for their appealing fruit colour and individual fruit weight and tree yield. Among the half sib progenies, PG 5-8 recorded maximum plant girth and height while it was least in PG 1-7 which is preferred trait for high density planting. Fruit yield was highest in PG 32-1 (22.48 kg/plant) closely followed by PG 24-6 (22.45 kg/tree) while yield was lowest in PG 32-3 (8.81 kg/tree). Fruit weight was maximum in PG 32-1 (234.00 g) followed by PG 24-6 (228.60 g) and PG 1-7 (210.00 g) while it was least in PG 32-3(90.00 g). Highest total soluble solids (12.6°Brix), ascorbic acid (203.78 mg/100 g) and total sugars (6.72%) were noticed in PG 1-7 and the fruits of this half sib progeny had less number of seeds (325 seeds) when compared to Arka Kiran (384) and moderate titratable acidity (0.28% citric acid). The trunk girth was positively and significantly associated with fruit yield in a study of correlation among different yield contributing factors in half sib progenies. Based on yield and fruit quality attributes, PG 1-7 was found to be the best for commercial exploitation. ','Guava, half sib progenies, selection, physico-chemical characters, correlation.','Based on the findings of present study, it could be inferred that guava genotypes differ greatly in terms of morphological and physico-chemical traits. In the investigation of several physico-chemical parameters of half sib progenies of the guava variety Arka Kiran, the half sib progeny PG 1-7 was found to be the best in terms of highest intensity of fruit pulp colour, yield, and fruit quality besides seed attributes. According to the results of the correlation studies, higher stem girth, among other features, contributed to higher yields and hence, it could be utilised as a preselection strategy in guava breeding programmes.','-','Sanjana U., M. Kavino, J. Auxcilia and M. Raveendran (2022). Evaluation of Half Sib Progenies of Guava var. Arka Kiran for Fruit Yield and Quality. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 14(2): 1451-1455.'),(5078,'125','Growth Performance and Conifers Diversity in Achanakmar-Amarkantak Biosphere Reserve, India','Amit Prakash Nayak, R.K Prajapati, M.D. Omprakash and Manish Mishra','251 Growth Performance and Conifers Diversity in Achanakmar-Amarkantak Biosphere Reserve, India Amit Prakash Nayak.pdf','',1,'Conifers were introduced in the moist deciduous forests of Central India in the 1970s, about 50 years ago. During the IV five-year plan, tropical pine was introduced in central India under the initiative of the Co-ordinated Tropical Pine Project, launched by FRI, Dehradun. The extent of the pine plantation has been decreased in central India due to the discontinuation of its plantations since 1984. The present investigation is focused to assess the composition, current growth status, health and vitality of understory vegetation, economic importance and livelihood dependency of local people of various conifers that were planted in the Amarkantak and East Karanjiya forest ranges that comes under the buffer and transition zone of Achanakmar-Amarkantak Biosphere Reserve, Madhya Pradesh. The scientific names, native range, and IUCN status are duly given in the paper. At that time, a total of 24 conifer tree species from seven genera and four families had been planted; all of these species have been identified and described in this study. Pinaceae is the most common family in the area, followed by Cupressaceae and Araucariaceae. North American nativity has the most species (13), followed by Indian and Australian nativity (3 each), and one each from China, Europe, Tropical Africa, the Mediterranean, and South American nativity. The study area therefore requires immense attention to be utilized as prime site for pine based tourism, local community may find the resin tapping as an alternate livelihood and for that the community needs to be trained and JFMCs be empowered.','Biosphere Reserve, Conifers, Gymnosperms, IUCN, Tropical Pines.','Nature cures man made injuries itself, if we allow it. In the Amarkantak around 38.820 ha of conifers were planted in 1969‒1982, but nowadays the area extent of those plantations in the region has been reduced due to various biotic and abiotic disturbances. So, the need of the hour is to plant more fast-growing conifers in this area to re vegetate and convert it into a tourist attraction spot for ecotourism industries. The seeds of various conifers should be collected, artificially raised in forest nurseries, and planted in eroded and degraded forest areas where the sites are suitable and these conifers have grown well. Therefore, it is essential to work for proper management practices and conservation strategies for the maintenance of pine species diversity as this area is very suitable for conifer growth. To improve the economic viability, assessment of the resin quality, skill development, and involvement of the local community in pine management are equally important for the sustainable management of conifers in the study area.','INTRODUCTION\r\nGymnosperms are widely distributed and commonly encountered plants, particularly in the northern hemisphere. Gymnosperms are naked seeded plants, differing from the other group of seed plants, angiosperms (flowering plants), by not having an ovule enclosed in a carpel (Byng, 2015). The word Gymnosperm, \"Gymnos\" means naked and \"Sperma\" means seeds, was first used by Theophrastus (300 BC), a pupil of Aristotle, in his famous book \"Enquiry into Plants\". This term was coined by Theophrastus to describe all plants with unprotected (uncovered) seeds (Pandey et al., 2016). Fertilized ovules develop into seeds on the surface of an integument (interpreted as a scale, bract, or leaf) that are aggregated into cones or cone-like structures, with the exception of Cycas (Cycadaceae) and Ginkgo (Ginkgoaceae). The reproductive structures are usually unisexual and the cones or cone-like structures are usually slow to reproduce, taking up to a year for pollinated ovules to be fertilized and up to another three years to mature (Byng, 2015).Gymnosperms were the most dominant plants in the world during the early Mesozoic era (about 240 million years ago), but only 1057 species remain today. However, some members of gymnosperms (the conifers) are still the dominant vegetation forming groups of plants in many areas of the world, particularly in the temperate boreal forests of the Northern Hemisphere and alpine forests at high elevations, because of their adaptation to cold and dry conditions (Byng, 2015). Many conifer species are also of huge economic importance as timber sources, nuts, oleoresin, and turpentine oil, with worldwide demand (Biswas and Johri 1997; Sharma et al., 2014; Sharma et al., 2018).\r\nTropical pines have soft wood with good fiber length and luster. They can survive in different agro-climatic zones up to a certain altitude ranging from 800-1200 m and in climatic, edaphic, and topographic conditions (Ponnuswamy, 1982; Mishra and Raghavan, 2008). In India, pine was introduced as a substitute to meet the paper and pulp industry due to its adaptability and high growth rate. A co-ordinate scheme \"Investigation on Fast-Growing Tropical Pines and Conifers was initiated by the Forest Research Institute (FRI) during the IV-Five Year plan (1969-74). The objective of the initiative was to find suitable species of fast-growing tropical pine for different regions of the country. Under this scheme, systematic trials and intensive studies were undertaken in nine States (provinces) of the country including Madhya Pradesh (Chaturvedi, 1982). The first experimental plantation of Pinus caribaea was raised in July 1968 at Jagatpur (Amarkantak) over an area of 0.5 ha. Polythene potted plants were planted in 30 cm3 pits dug after clear-felling Sal (Shorea robusta) forest areas (Chaturvedi, 1982).Conifers are also planted as a provenance trail across many hilly tropical environments such as Tamil Nadu\'s Nilgiri and Gudalur districts, Odisha\'s Koraput and Phulbani districts, and West Bengal\'s Kalimpong and Buxa districts etc. as reported by Singh (1982) (Fig. 1), as part of the IV-Five Year plan to compare their survival, growth, and productivity to temperate and sub-tropical environments. In the erstwhile M.P., it was planted in 1982, in several places, including Jashpur Nagar, Pachmarhi, Tamia, and Supkhar areas (Chaturvedi, 1982), but large-scale plantations are being reported only from present-day AABR. Hence, the present study has been largely carried out in this region only. The study is aimed at assessing the conifer’s diversity in the region along with their growth performance and adaptability to tropical environmental conditions.\r\nMATERIALS AND METHODS\r\nA. Study site\r\nOn March 30, 2005, the Achanakmar-Amarkantak Biosphere Reserve (AABR), one of the rich biodiversity areas of Central India, was declared as the 14th National Biosphere Reserve (BR) of the country. It stretches in a triangular shape from the Maikal hill ranges to the Vindhyan and Satpura hill ranges (junction) of Chhattisgarh (CG) and Madhya Pradesh (M.P.).The BR spanned latitude 22°15\' 20°58\' N and longitude 81°25\' 82°5\' E, covering a total geographic area of 383,551 ha (Anonymous, 2007). Further, it is part of the Malayan territory, the Tropical Dry and Moist Deciduous Forest (biome) and the Deccan Peninsular bio-geographical zone of the country. The core zone of this Protected Area (PA) has hills and valleys covered with dense forest with a total geographic area of 55,155 ha and is part of the Bilaspur district (CG) administration (Anonymous, 2007). The buffer and transition zones of the BR with 205,898 ha fall in Bilaspur district (CG), and 122,494 ha in Dindori and Anuppur districts of M.P. (Joshi and Tiple 2010) \r\nIn the year 2021 (February–August), the experiment was carried out in several places of the Amarkantak and East Karanjiya Forest ranges. The biodiversity and morphological characteristics of conifers are being documented in various forest stands. The Amarkantak range is in the Anuppur division, whereas the East Karanjiya Range comes under the Dindori Forest Division of Madhya Pradesh, where the State Forest Research Institute (SFRI), Jabalpur, carried out large-scale conifer plantation in the early 1970s. The plantation area extended between Latitude 22o41’ and 22o48’ N; Longitude 81°42’ and 81°43’ E (Fig. 2) with an average altitude of 1058 m. The area is endowed with tropical moist (North part) and dry (South part) deciduous forests, which are very rich in flora and fauna with endemism and genetic variation. The annual rainfall of the district is 1214.33 mm, and July is the wettest month of the year. The minimum temperature of the region varies from 7oC in December to a maximum of 41.7°C in the month of May (Anonymous, 2008). The geology of the area is varied from schists and gneisses with granite intrusion rocks, sandstones, shales, limestone, basalt (lava flow), and bauxite, the rock formations of which the study area is comprised. The soils of the AABR vary in composition and texture, which range from sandy to loamy-clay, generally light brown to brownish-yellow in colour. Due to poor soil drainage, olive green clay zones up to 5 mm depth exist in some places due to poor soil drainage; red soils, relatively fertile soils in the area, are also found in some pockets of the study area. Deposits of alluvial soil are also found on the banks of numerous streams of the Narmada River. Further, black cotton soil also exists in many pockets of AABR (Anonymous, 2010).\r\nB. Floral composition\r\nThe Achanakmar-Amarkantak Biosphere Reserve was found to have a diverse floristic assemblage of aquatic, marshy, and terrestrial plants growing in a variety of habitats, including herbs, shrubs, climbers, lianas rhizomes, and trees. More than 324 species of thallophytes (algae fungi and lichen), 44 species of bryophytes, 40 kinds of ferns, more than 1,111 species of angiosperms, and 16 species of gymnosperms make up the Biosphere reserve\'s Phyto-diversity (Roychoudhury and Gupta 2016). However, in this survey and observation, we have recoded 24 species of conifers that were planted in different forest stands of the Amarkantak and East Karanjiya ranges in the 1970s, and some other pine species were also introduced in this region after that. Both the places are considered notable for its rich biological resources and broad spectra of plant existence. \r\nC. Data collection methods in Pinus stands \r\n(i) Growth data collection. In the present study, field data was collected from the field to determine the growth and yield performance. A quadrate of 10m × 10m was laid, and the total area covered by the total quadrate was about 10% of the total plantation area (i.e. 38 ha). Tree parameters like height and diameter of trees (which are inside the quadrates) were recorded using a data collection format. Some of the unpublished data available in the office of the Range Officer (Research), Amarkantak range, which is related to growth parameters of trees (i.e., for the years 1969-1995), has also been included in the present study. Therefore, in the present investigation, the old data and current data were compiled to reach a good conclusion in relation to the growth (diameter, height) and productivity of the pines.\r\n(ii) Regeneration of pines and other vegetation status. The seedlings and saplings were considered as regeneration parameters (Anonymous, 2017). To determine the regeneration status, 20 quadrates (2m x 2m)were randomly laid to cover the maximum heterogeneity of all the plantation stands covering the Chakratirath, Bhundakona, and Pondi areas of Amarkantak, and Raktidadar, Kabirchabutra, Jagatpur area of East Karanjiya forest range that fall under the buffer and transition zones of AABR, respectively.\r\n(iii) Measurement of tree height and diameter. The height of each tree was measured with the help of Abney\'s level. Three readings were taken, from different locations, from which the base and top of the tree are visible. The average of these readings provided the height of the tree, which was recorded in meters. Whereas the Girth at breast height (GBH) was measured at breast height (1.37m from the ground level) with the help of the measuring tape and converted in to diameter by using the formula (G=πD).\r\n \r\nRESULTS AND DISCUSSION \r\nGrowth performance study of conifers has been carried out at Amarkantak and East Karanjiya forest range with literature survey and publications related to floral resources of Achanakmar-Amarkantak Biosphere Reserve, plantation data of the State Forest Research Institute (S.F.R.I., Jabalpur) and the working plan Report of Anuppur Forest Division research papers in journals and books available in the Library of the Indian Institute of Forest Management, Bhopal. All the conifers were identified with the help of literature and books authored by Farjon (2017); Vidakovic (1982). The bole diameter and height of these plantations were excellent as compare to temperate Himalayan regions similar to temperate and sub-temperate forests, indicating that these species are suitable for planting in the Amarkantak range in the altitudinal range of 1050-1150 maslas opposed to the East Karanjiya range. This may be due to the altitudinal difference and the microclimate is more favorable to conifer growth in Amarkantak. The resin tapping experiment should be started to know the resin yield. If the resin yield is commercially viable, then only plantations on a large scale will be carried out for the livelihood of the people residing inside and outside of the forest.\r\nA. Extent of Conifers in Amarkantak\r\nAs per the Working Plan report (2008-2018), Anuppur, the conifer plantation, was carried from 1969-1982. The total area covered by pine plantation in the Amarkantak range was about 38.82 ha, which was planted in different forest stands of the Amarkantak range (Tables 1 and 2 and Fig. 2). The crown canopy density comes under the moderately dense category as per the observation recorded during 2021. Overall, crown canopy density plays a crucial role in regulating the forests, affecting microclimate, soil conditions and overall forest ecosystem health.\r\nThe list of these 24 conifer species belonging to 7 genera and 4 families, with their native range, habit, and IUCN status, is presented briefly in Table 4 Tables are placed sequentially. In terms of the number of species, the family Pinaceae, with 17 species, was the most dominant, followed by Araucariaceae (3 species), Cupressaceae (3 species) and Taxodiaceae (1 species). The species of North American nativity has the most species (13), followed by Indian and Australian nativity (3 each), and one each from China, Europe, Tropical Africa, the Mediterranean, and South American nativity, respectively. Out of the total documented species, most of them were of Least concern (i.e., 20 species), followed by Endangered (2) Near threatened (1), Vulnerable (1) and category of International Union for Conservation of Nature (Anonymous, 2020) described in Table 4. Globally, the population of many conifers has been decreasing drastically due to various causes. For example, like the population of Araucaria araucana, which decreases due to illegal logging, catastrophic fires, etc., this species is not only placed in the endangered category of IUCN but also in Appendix-I of CITES and as a Natural Monument in Chile, which gives it legal protection against logging (Farjon, 2017). In the present study, there are only two mature individuals recorded, i.e., Araucaria araucana is still present in the old nursery area. Looking at the current status of these conifers, only option left is to propagate and multiply to plant in these forest stands, and there is a need to conserve these endangered species. In Amarkantak range, Pinus greggii was also planted. This species was considered important due to its genetic plasticity and adaptation to eroded and poor soils (Dvorak and Donahue, 1993). Further, it is also listed in the vulnerable category of the IUCN Red List category of Threatened Species. Pinus greggii is widely used worldwide in reforestation programmes for the recovery of watershed areas. This tree is drought, pest and disease tolerant, as reported by Musálem and Martínez (2003). Therefore, it can be recommended as because of high growth rates in plantation trials (López et al., 1999; Salazar et al., 1999). These characteristics favor the use of Pinus greggii in commercial plantations; hence, it can be planted in greater amounts in marginal lands and open forest patches of the Amarkantak range.\r\nB. Growth pattern\r\nThe present floristic account of the Achanakmar-Amarkantak Biosphere reserve is highly significant as it provides the current and latest status as well as morphological description of coniferous plant wealth occurring within the Biosphere reserve for future usefulness to foresters and botanists in the planning of conservation and management strategies. As tropical pines can grow in a wide range of soil and climate, suitable sites have been chosen across different places of the Amarkantak forest range with an elevation of about 1000 m and an annual rainfall of 1200-1800 mm. The below mentioned (Table 2) showed the distribution of the species in different areas and showed the growth parameters of pines. The physical features of the species found in the area are more or less the same in comparison to the species found in the western and eastern Himalayan ranges of India as well as other temperate areas of the world. However, aspects like cone size and seed formation differ greatly, and hence the regeneration is found to be nil in the plantation stands. However, Pinus roxburghii, Pinus kesiya and Pinus oocarpa produce moderately fertile seeds from February, May every year. Therefore, it is also suggested that during management practices, care should be taken to conserve the rare species from getting destroyed and cleared off.\r\nThe main observations of the present investigation are mentioned below (Table 2 & Fig. 3).\r\n•Pinus caribaea and Pinus oocarpa showed good height growth with values between 30-35 m and 28-32 m.\r\n•Due to its good site quality and higher land elevation, Pinus roxburghii attains the best diameter growth out of all the species (especially in Bhundakona area of Amarkantak Range).\r\n•Viable seeds are produced only in Pinus kesiya, Pinus roxburghii and Pinus oocarpa. However, due to rapid forest fire in the summer season, seedling establishment of these species is a major problem. This could be one of the major reasons for pine stand degradation in this area.\r\n•Six different pine species were all introduced to the Pondi area in 1973. Only one of these Pinus roxburghii grow successfully, but plantations of the other five species i.e (Pinus patula, Pinus kesiya, Pinus caribaea, and Pinus taeda) utterly failed. Pondi is located at 906 m amsl, which is lower than other locations where other tropical pines are well-established, and the heavy anthropogenic pressure on this area may be the cause of this.\r\n•In the BALCO Bauxite mine area, four species of pine were planted, but currently only two species, Pinus roxburghii and Pinus kesiya, have survived with poor growth. However, the height and diameter growth are the lowest as compared to other areas of pine plantation existing.\r\n•In Bhundakona, all three varieties of Pinus caribaea were planted, including Pinus caribaea var. bahamensis (Bahamas origin), var. hondurensis (Mexico origin), and var. nicargua (nicargua) were tested to observe their behavior in small scale field trials. Out of these, var. bahamensis showed the most promising results in this area.\r\n•Growth performance of Pinus pinaster is also very poor because this species belongs to Mediterranean climate region, however, in Amarkantak the factors of locality like microclimate, site quality is not suitable to establish this species.\r\n•In Pinus patula trees planted at Chakratirath and Kabirchabutra it was found that most of the tree stems having a wavy outgrowth.\r\nGrowth performance comparison with other places of tropical pine plantations\r\nDas (1982) reported that Pinus caribaea var. hondurensis attain best height growth in the Kalingia Research Garden (820 m amsl) of Odisha after 10 years of plantation trial as compared to Pinus caribaea var. bahamensis. Whereas the stem form of Pinus caribaea var. bahamensis at Daringbadi (945 m amsl) was found to be excellent. Similar observation has also been recorded in the present experiment after 50 year of plantation at Amarkantak (1050 m amsl) that both the variety of Pinus caribaea attain maximum height. The results of the current study corroborated those from Chaturvedi (1982). In several high altitude tropical environment of India, Pandey (1982) reported on the growth performance of various tropical pines. According to his investigation, Pinus patula, Pinus elliotti, and Pinus kesiya were found to thrive well at Kodaikanal and Ooty (Tamil Nadu). In Jalpaigudi (West Bengal), Chaibasa (Jharkhand) and in Jagdalpur(Chhattisgarh) only Pinus cariabea can be flourish well if good soil should be provided. Pinus oocarpa has shown good growth in upland areas of Southern part of India i.e Koraput (Odisha), Araku (Andhra Pradesh) and Gudalur (Tamil Nadu). Mishra and Raghvan,2008 conducted feasibility study of tropical pine plantations in Koraput and revealed that Pinus caribaea var. hondurensis shown good survival rate of more than 70 % . The Changmai, Thailand (FRI-750) provenance of Pinus kesiya showed good growth performance as well as survival. However, other provenances such as Khasi & Jaintia Hills(Assam), Philippines showed poor survival rate (less than 40%). Only Pinus kesiya trees produces viable seeds in sufficient amount. In the present study area Pinus kesiya along with two other species i.e Pinus roxburghii and Pinus oocarpa also produces viable seeds in each year.\r\nThe dominant understory vegetation consists of shrubs like like Colebrookea oppositifoila, Pogostemon benghalensis (Table 3). Vegetation of Colebrookea oppositifoila growth was much flourishing in R-237 compartment (Bhundakona) due to higher elevation as compared to other areas and also mixed plantation of Pinus greggii, Pinus kesiya, Pinus caribaea and these species tends to be the unpremeditated factor for promoting the growth of ground vegetation. The leaf litter of pines contains phenolic compounds that are inhibitory to conifer seed germination, primary root growth, and ecto-mycorrhizal growth (Mallik, 1987, Pellissier, 1993, Pellissier, 1994). Due to this reason, the natural regeneration is completely check as because of the litter decomposition rate is slow this may become physical barrier of seedling establishment. However, it is very interesting to note that in study area natural regeneration of Pinus kesiya and Pinus roxburghii was found excellent compared with other conifers existing in Bhundakona (Compartment number R-237),and these two species producing viable seeds. It was found that in Compartment number P-216 (Pondi) fire incidence phenomenon was observed very common due to anthropogenic and other social factors and this area is very poor in understory vegetation also.\r\n \r\nD. Economic importance\r\nThe economic importance of various conifers is relatively high in terms of its economic return because they produce oleoresin. The principal species of Pine which are tapped for oleoresin production including Pinus elliottii (in Brazil, Argentina, South Africa); Pinus massoniana and Pinus kesiya (in People’s republic of China); Pinus pinaster (in Portugal); Pinus merkusii (in Indonesia); Pinus oocarpa (in Mexico and Honduras); Pinus caribaea (in Venezuela); Pinus sylvestris (in Russia); Pinus halepensis (in Greece); and Pinus radiata (in Kenya) and Pinus roxburghii, mainly found in India and Pakistan as per William 2002; FAO, 1995. The principal products obtained from oleoresin are rosin and turpentine oil. Through the distillation method, the aromatic turpentine oil and transparent rosins are separated. Turpentine oil is utilized in the manufacturing of paints, fireworks, insecticides, and disinfectants (Anonymous, 2003). The turpentine oil industry has become one of the major sources of raw materials for organic chemicals. Because, turpentine oil is a natural product that can easily be obtained from living pine trees without destructing and degrading the habitat with sustainable harvesting methods. The use of rosin is in adhesives, electric isolation, paper, soldering flux, varnish, printing ink, and match industries. \r\n\r\n\r\n\r\nIn the printing ink industry, rosin gives adhesiveness, surface smoothness, hardness, ant blocking and other properties, synthetic rubber and chewing gum (Wiyono et al., 2006). To improve the economic viability, assessment of the resin quality, skill development, and involvement of local community in pine management are equally important for the sustainable management of conifers in this area.\r\nE. Livelihood dependency and sustenance\r\nThe area is a tourist attraction, and lakhs of tourists visit every area of the AABR. The local community is involved in collecting and selling pinecones in the local market at a price of 10–20 INR cone-1, which helps in improving their economic conditions. There is a need to develop skills in people to convert these cones into handicraft items. The pine needles (leaves) are of socio-economic importance to the fringe villages. They collect the leaf litter to meet their fuel requirements for cooking food and to cover the house roof as thatching material. However, in the Himalayan region, the tapping of the resin is an economically viable source of income-generating activity. Even though this study area has similar potential if large scale plantation were carried out, it is still not being tapped into pine plantation stands. One reason could be a lack of knowledge and skill to tap into the resin.\r\n\r\n','Amit Prakash Nayak, R.K Prajapati, M.D. Omprakash and Manish Mishra (2022). Growth Performance and Conifers Diversity in Achanakmar-Amarkantak Biosphere Reserve, India. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 14(2): 1456-1468.'),(5079,'125','A Study on Price Forecasting of Paddy in West Tripura, District','Prasenjit Gope, R. Pangayar Selvi, R.Vasanthi and V. Karthick','252 A Study on Price Forecasting of Paddy in West Tripura, District Prasenjit Gope.pdf','',1,'Price fluctuations in agricultural commodities have a negative impact on a country\'s GDP and farmers are harmed both emotionally and financially as a result of their years of toil. Because of this reason prediction of prices may assist the agricultural supply chain in making necessary decisions in minimizing and managing price risk. Present study was conducted in West Tripura District, which was chosen on the basis of price of the paddy crop. Tripura offers all of the suitable circumstances for paddy growing, with a lot of potential. Due to price instabilities, Tripura farmers are currently not interested in growing paddy crops. The market\'s knowledge, which is essential to the social and economic activities that make up the development process, will be provided via price prediction. In this study, SARIMA models were developed to predict the paddy prices using time series data from January 2000 to February 2022.By comparing Bayesian Information Criteria(BIC), Mean Absolute Percent Error (MAPE) and Ljung-Box test, SARIMA (0,1,2)(1,0,1)12 had chosen the top. Based on the fitted model, the paddy price was predicted up to December, 2022 and highest price found to be on September 2022 would be `1923.5/qt. ','Price Forecasting, Paddy crops, ARIMA.','In agricultural markets, time series forecasting is essential. Commodity price volatility makes it difficult to make any decision timely based on commonsense. Tripura is having good agro-climatic conditions, deep fertile soils, and subtropical humid climate with abundance of rainfall, which offers tremendous scope for cultivation of paddy and also this, is the major crops grown in the state but farmers in Tripura have been turning away from paddy production in recent years due to price swings. In this study SARIMA (0,1,2)(1,0,1)12 was the best fitted model for forecasting the price of paddy in west Tripura district and according to this model, in the September of 2022 price would be high among all these month . So, by the Analysis of this study, decisions can be made by the farmers of West Tripura, District in selecting crop for cultivation that will lead to a better economic outcome. ','-','Prasenjit Gope, R. Pangayar Selvi, R.Vasanthi and V. Karthick (2022). A Study on Price Forecasting of Paddy in West Tripura, District. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 14(2): 1469-1473.'),(5080,'125','Effect of Tillage and Weed Management Practices on Weed Density and Yield of Bt Cotton (Gossypium hirsutum L.) in Vertisol','Pawar S.B., Karle A.S., More V.R. and Narkhede W.N.','253 Effect of Tillage and Weed Management Practices on Weed Density and Yield of Bt Cotton _Gossypium hirsutum L._ in Vertisol Pawar S.pdf','',1,'The field experiment was conducted at experimental farm, AICRP on Integrated Farming Systems, Vasantrao Naik Marathwada Krishi Vidyapeeth, Parbhani (M.S.) during kharif 2019-20 and 2020-21 seasons to study “Response of Bt cotton (Gossypium hirsutum L.) to tillage and weed management practices in vertisol”. Treatment consisted of sixteen treatment combinations comprising four tillage practices (T1- Conventional tillage, T2- Rotary tillage, T3- Minimum tillage, T4- Zero tillage) in main plot, and four weed management practices (W1 - Weed check,W2 - Weed free, W3 – Pendimethalin (30% EC) @ 0.75 kg ha-1 as PE + Quizalofop ethyl (5% EC)@ 50 g ha1(PoE) + Hoeing. and W4- Pendimethalin (30% EC) @ 0.75 kg ha-1 as PE +Pyrithiobac-sodium (10% EC) @ 62.5 g ha-1 (PoE) + Straw mulching 2.5t/ha. The result of the study revealed that conventional tillage (T1) recorded lesser weed population and weed dry weight and higher weed control efficiency with lower weed index and higher seed cotton yield (kg ha-1) than other treatments and however it was at par with rotary tillage (T2). Among the weed management practices weed free (W2) recorded) recorded lesser weed population and weed dry weight and higher weed control efficiency with lower weed index and higher seed cotton yield (kg ha-1) and however it was at par with Pendimethalin (30% EC) @ 0.75 kg ha-1as PE +Pyrithiobac-sodium (10% EC) @ 62.5 g ha-1 (PoE) + Straw mulching 2.5t/ha (W4).','Herbicide,Weed density, weed control efficiency, weed index, seed cotton yield.','It can be concluded that-\r\nAmong tillage practices conventional tillage (T1) recorded lesser weed population, weed dry weight and higher weed control efficiency with lower weed index and higher seed cotton yield (kg ha-1) than other treatments and however it was at par with rotary tillage (T2). \r\nAmong weed management practices weed free (W2) recorded lesser weed population, weed dry weight and higher weed control efficiency with lower weed index and higher seed cotton yield (kg ha-1) and however it was at par with Pendimethalin (30% EC) @ 0.75 kg ha-1 as PE +Pyrithiobac-sodium (10% EC) @ 62.5 g ha-1 (PoE) + Straw mulching 2.5t/ha (W4). ','-','Pawar S.B., Karle A.S., More V.R. and Narkhede W.N (2022). Effect of Tillage and Weed Management Practices on Weed Density and Yield of Bt Cotton (Gossypium hirsutum L.) in Vertisol. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 14(2): 1474-1480.'),(5081,'125','Impact of Bio-agents against Meloidogyne incognita infecting Cucumber in Poly-House','S.S. Bhati, B.L. Baheti, Ishwar Singh and B.S. Chandrawat','254 Impact of Bio-agents against Meloidogyne incognita infecting Cucumber in Poly-House S. S.pdf','',1,'Root-knot nematode (Meloidogyne incognita) is a most destructive pest of cucumber under protected cultivation and it causes great losses to vegetable production in poly-house. To reduce the use of pesticides in poly-houses and to promote the crop production, an eco-friendly management trail was conducted with different combinations of bio-agents. In view of disease severity and crop losses caused by this micro-organism, attempt were made to test various potential bio-agents i.e. Paecilomyces lilacinus (now known as Purpureocillium lilacinum), Trichoderma harzianum, Pochonia chlamydosporia, Pseudomonas fluorescens and Glomus fasiculatum (VAM) to evolve economical and eco-friendly methods for the management of Meloidogyne incognita infecting cucumber. The bio-agents were applied at 2.5 and 5.0 g/plant. Treated (Trichoderma viride 5.0 g/plant) and untreated checks were also maintained for comparison of results. The results of present investigation exhibited that all the bio-agents significantly reduced nematode reproduction and enhanced the plant growth of cucumber over untreated check. The highest reduction in root galls 60.63%, egg masses 55.46%, egg mass contents 27.54% and nematode population 66.29% were recorded with Trichoderma viride at 5.0g per plant over untreated check on cucumber in poly-house followed by Paecilomyces lilacinus and Trichoderma harzianum. ','Biocontrol, Root-knot nematode, Paecilomyces lilacinus, Trichoderma viride, Trichoderma harzianum, Pochonia chlamydosporia, Pseudomonas fluorescens, Glomus fasciculatum.','The results of experimental findings revealed that bio-agents found very effective against Meloidogyne incognita and also improved plant growth and yield of cucumber in poly-house due to favourable environmental conditions. According to study bio-agents are key option in eco-friendly vegetable production of cucumber in poly-house.','-','S.S. Bhati, B.L. Baheti, Ishwar Singh and B.S. Chandrawat (2022). Impact of Bio-agents against Meloidogyne incognita infecting Cucumber in Poly-House. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 14(2): 1481-1487.'),(5082,'125','Assessment of Combining ability for Grain Yield and its Related Contributing Traits in Rice (Oryza sativa L.)','Pushpanjali Kushawaha, Pooran Chand, L.K. Gangwar, S. K. Singh, Mukesh Kumar, Nirdesh Chaudhary, Shiva Mohan, Veerala Priyanka and Rahul Kumar','255 Assessment of Combining ability for Grain Yield and its Related Contributing Traits in Rice _Oryza sativa L.pdf','',1,'Assessment of combing ability in rice genotype is important role for increasing grain yield to develop new or improved varieties. In present investigation these parameters have been selected for these genotypes which have not been made earlier. It requires proper study about these characters which fascinated me to study about these parameters in the respected genotypes. This study aimed to determine the effects of combining ability in rice (Oryza sativa L.). Ten parental lines and their 45 F1 progenies were evaluated in Kharif 2020-21 in randomized block design with three replications at CRC of SVPUAT, Meerut using a half-diallel mating design. The analysis of variance for the treatments (parents and hybrids) revealed that all genotypes had highly significant differences for both yield and quality traits indicating sufficient variability among the material studied. The mean sum of squares due to general combining ability were highly significant for all traits under study, indicating that these characters are governed by additive gene action. While the mean sum of squares due to specific combining ability were observed to be highly significant for all the characters, excluding days to maturity, plant height, L/B ratio and kernel length after cooking, which indicates that those traits are expressed by non-additive gene action. The variance of the GCA/SCA ratio was less than unity for days to maturity, panicle length, grains per panicle, 1000 grain weight, biological yield, harvest index, hulling percentage and grain yield per plant revealed preponderance of non-additive gene action, while all the remaining character like days to 50% flowering, plant height, spikelet’s per panicle, gel consistency, L/B ratio and kernel length after cooking were more than unity, revealed additive gene action. The significant GCA effects for parents Vallabh Basmati 23, Pant Basmati 2, Pusa Basmati 1718, Pusa Basmati 1637 and Pusa Basmati 1509 were found to be good general combiners for grain yield per plant. The best significant SCA effect crosses viz., Vallabh Basmati 23 × Pusa Basmati 1121, Pusa Basmati 1637 × Pusa Basmati 1718, Pusa Basmati 1509 × Vallabh Basmati 24, Pant Basmati 2 × Pusa Basmati 1121, Pusa Basmati 1 × Basmati CSR 30, were found to be good specific combiners for grain yield per plant. In present study outcomes based on combing ability which revealed that the grain yield can be enhanced by improving these traits through heterosis breeding followed by recurrent selection methods.','Combining ability, GCA, SCA, and Basmati rice.','The general combining ability is associated with fixable gene action (additive and additive × additive gene action). In contrast, the specific combining ability is attributed to non-fixable gene action (non-additive genes). The existence of additive gene action can be used in pure line selection, mass selection, and progeny selection, whereas the presence of non-additive gene action can be used to initiate a hybrid breeding programme. Based on the findings, we may conclude that both additive and non-additive gene action significantly impact on grain yield and the yield contributing features. As a result, it is suggested that pure line and heterosis breeding could be used to improve the yield of these rice genotypes','-','Pushpanjali Kushawaha, Pooran Chand, L.K. Gangwar, S. K. Singh, Mukesh Kumar, Nirdesh Chaudhary, Shiva Mohan, Veerala Priyanka and Rahul Kumar (2022). Assessment of Combining ability for Grain Yield and its Related Contributing Traits in Rice (Oryza sativa L.). Biological Forum – An International Journal, 14(2): 1488-1493.'),(5083,'125','Genetic Evaluation of Cluster bean (Cyamopsis tetragonoloba L. Taub.) Genotypes for Quality Traits Over Three Locations','R. Ravi Teja, P. Saidaiah, A. Kiran Kumar, K. Bhasker and A. Geetha','256 Genetic Evaluation of Cluster bean _Cyamopsis tetragonoloba L. Taub._ Genotypes for Quality Traits Over Three Locations R.pdf','',1,'Despite of crops high demand, only less breeding work was done and less attention has been paid for genetic improvement of quality attributes. Before developing any superior variety with superior quality, it is necessary to compare the performance of the genotypes with best performing variety, aim of this study is to identify the superior quality genotypes. During Kharif, 2019, twenty-four genotypes and one check variety, were evaluated in Completely Randomized Block Design replicated thrice at three environments representing three Telangana agroclimatic Zones: PG Research Block, COH, Rajendranagar, Hyderabad (Southern Telangana Zone), progressive farmers field at Karimnagar (Northern Telangana Zone) and JVR HRS, Malyal, Mahabubabad (Central Telangana Zone). Significant differences were observed between genotypes. Protein content, crude fibre content in the pod and gum content in the seed\'s endosperm were estimated. Protein content was found highest in genotypes IC-28287 (23.86 percent) and IC-13348 (23.55 percent). The genotype IC-9077-P1 had the highest crude fibre content (4.36 percent), whereas IC-28269 had the lowest fibre content (8.71 percent). The gum content in cluster bean genotypes IC-103295 (33.02 percent) and IC-9077-P1 (32.17 percent) was determined highest. As a result, these germplasm can be utilized as such or can further be subjected to further selection or breeding programmes to develop a desirable variety of cluster bean suitable for rainfed environments.','Cluster bean, crude fibre content, protein content, gum content.','In any selection programme, the mean performance of germplasm for individual trait is an important criteria for removal undesirable types. This demonstrated that the material examined might serve as a potential source of quality traits such as protein content was found highest in genotypes IC-28287 (23.86 percent) and IC-13348 (23.55 percent), genotype IC-9077-P1 had the highest crude fibre content (4.36 percent), whereas IC-28269 had the lowest fibre content (8.71 percent). The gum content in cluster bean genotypes IC-103295 (33.02 percent) and IC-9077-P1 (32.17 percent) was determined highest. As a result, these germplasm can be utilized as such or can further be subjected to further selection or breeding programmes to develop a desirable variety of cluster bean with desirable quality traits.','-','R. Ravi Teja, P. Saidaiah, A. Kiran Kumar, K. Bhasker and A. Geetha (2022). Genetic Evaluation of Cluster bean (Cyamopsis tetragonoloba L. Taub.) Genotypes for Quality Traits Over Three Locations. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 14(2): 1494-1498.'),(5084,'125','Phenotypic Characterization and Biochemical analysis in Mutant Genotypes of Pink Pitchi (Jasminum grandiflorum, L.)','S.M. Soundarya, M Ganga, D. Malarvizhi, S. Divya, N. Senthil, K. Iyanar, R. Gnanam and M. Jawaharlal','257 Phenotypic Characterization and Biochemical analysis in Mutant Genotypes of Pink Pitchi _Jasminum grandiflorum, L.pdf','',1,'Jasmine (Jasminum grandiflorum L.) is one of the important flower crop commercially cultivated for their attractive fragrant flowers and is highly valued for its essential oil in India. Essential oil extracted from the fragrant flowers has great demand in the international market for perfumery industry. The aesthetic and economic value of Jasmine is determined by the shape, colour and size of the flower, aroma and flower yield. Since jasmine is normally propagated by asexual means, there exists only limited variability in this species. Creation of variability is the major strategy for varietal diversification and evolving novel varieties in Jasmine. The unique variability for various economic traits can be obtained by employing several methods such as hybridisation, induced mutations, somaclonal variations and combination of several other methods. In this study, the derived mutant genotypes of cultivated Pink Pitchi that are developed by inducing mutation through physical (Gamma) and chemical mutagens (EMS) were assessed for 35 phenotypic traits including vegetative and floral characters. Variations in vegetative and floral characters were recorded both in cultivated as well as in mutant genotypes and resulted in the identification of four promising mutant genotypes of Pink Pitchi for further utilization in jasmine improvement for developing elite varieties in jasmine. In addition, the selected mutant genotypes viz., PPM-12, PPM-72, PPM-96, PPM-115 and non mutated Pink Pitchi genotypes were subjected to GCMS analysis for identifying the biochemical phytoconstituents and its respective biosynthetic pathways. The metabolite profiling resulted in the identification of various biochemical compounds such as Hexanoic acid, an aromatic hydrocarbon, ethyl ester and a saturated hydrocarbon Cyclohexene, 1-methyl-4-(1-methylethenyl)-, (S)- were found to be present only in Pink Pitchi whereas these compounds are absent in all the derived mutants of Pink Pitchi. Three compounds viz., Boldione, an organooxygen compound, a organochloride compound Caryophyllene and a branched alkane Nonane, 4,5-dimethyl- were present only in the gamma ray derived mutants PPM-96 and PPM-115 whereas they are absent in pink Pitchi and EMS derived mutants. Toluenes, Benzenoids and Polycyclic hydrocarbons such as 1-(p-Tolyl)butan-1-one, 2-Heptanone and Bicyclo [7.2.0]undec-4-ene, 4,11,11-trimethyl-8-methylene-, [1R-1R*,4Z,9S*)]- were found to be present only in the two EMS derived mutants PPM-12 and PPM-72 respectively. The morphological characterization for various phenotypic traits and identification of various metabolites in the mutant accessions of Jasminum species will have potential applications in jasmine improvement programme. Identification of biochemical compounds may ultimately help in industrial utility to identify the perfect stage of the flowers for higher concrete recovery and for unique fragrance of jasmine.','Jasminum grandiflorum, Pink pitchi mutants, phenotypic traits, GCMS profiling.','This study has documented various morphological and flowering traits along with various biochemical compounds present in different mutant genotypes of J. grandiflorum to represent the variability existing in Pink Pitchi mutants of jasmine. The jasmine mutants exhibited an incredible range of variations for various morphological and floral quality traits. Variations in vegetative and floral characters were recorded both in cultivated as well as in mutant genotypes. Such morphological variations resulted in the identification of four promising mutant genotypes of Pink Pitchi for further utilization in crop improvement programmes for development of elite varieties in jasmine. Data thus generated would be helpful in future crop improvement programmes in jasmine to cater to the needs of floriculture industry. Identification of biochemical compounds may ultimately help in industrial utility to identify the perfect stage of the flowers for higher concrete recovery and can assume that the identified compounds possesses a response for unique fragrance exclusive for jasmine species.','-','S.M. Soundarya, M Ganga, D. Malarvizhi, S. Divya, N. Senthil, K. Iyanar, R. Gnanam and M. Jawaharlal (2022). Phenotypic Characterization and Biochemical analysis in Mutant Genotypes of Pink Pitchi (Jasminum grandiflorum, L.). Biological Forum – An International Journal, 14(2): 1499-1509.'),(5085,'125','Understanding the Level of Farmers’ Explore the Extent of Adoption & Impact Over the socio-economic and Production Scenario on Vermicompost: A Post Training Behavioural Exploration of the Small-holder Farmers in Bihar State of India','Satya Prakash*, A.K. Singh, Alok Kumar, Mahesh Kumar & Ankita Das','258 Understanding the Level of Farmers’ Explore the Extent of Adoption & Impact Over the socio-economic and Production Scenario on Vermicompost A Post Training Behavioural Exploration of Satya Prakash.pdf','',1,'Vermicompost is an innovative kind of organic fertilizer which is distinctly following all the principles of sustainability as an agricultural input. Vermicompost is an excellent nutrient-rich organic fertilizer and soil conditioner. This is an impressive technology particularly in the context of contemporary climate change as it maintains the principles of sustainability and helps to maintain the crop as well as the soil health. This research study tried to explore the knowledge and skill level of the farmers who had previously attended the vermicompost training programme organised by the KVKs. This study was conducted in 3 districts of Bihar state viz. Samastipur, Muzaffarpur and Madhubani and the sample size considered for this study is 150. 2 blocks from each of these 3 districts were selected purposively for conducting the survey. The respondents were assessed and categorised into the three distinct categories of low, medium and high on the basis of their knowledge and skill level. More than half of the farmers (50%) showed the medium level of knowledge in all the 3 districts under study. More than 50% of the farmers in Samstipur and Muzaffarpur district are with medium level of skills and 50% of the farmers in Madhubani district are having the medium level of skills related to vermicompost technology. Data were analysed by using statistical tools in MS Excel for calculating knowledge and skill index of the individual respondent farmer. ','Adoption, impact, training, vermicompost, technology, vermiwash','The majority of the farmers under study have exhibited medium level of adoption regarding vermicompost technology which had been gained by them during the KVK training programs. Alongside, most of the farmers’ respondents divulged the medium level of impact related to vermicompost technology as they possessed. But it is strongly recommended to the KVK scientists as well as the public extension workers to conduct more training programs and ensure the farmers participation to a higher degree by functioning in tandem with the agricultural universities and the regional agricultural research centres. The adoption as well as impact will be enhanced to a satisfactory level with the sincere attempts of the institutes and the subsequent post programme exploration of the behavioural metrics of the farmer participants and the rural habitants of the northern part of Bihar state.','INTRODUCTION\r\nVermicompost is the decomposed product of vegetable, food waste, bedding materials, vermicast or worm cast in a form a heterogeneous mixture. It is basically the breakdown of organic matter content with the activities of the earthworm. The level of contaminants becomes lower in the newly created vermicompost with the increasing concentration of nutrients (Chauhan et al., 2010). Vermicompost is an excellent nutrient-rich organic fertilizer and soil conditioner. Vermicomposting is the process of producing the vermicompost. The biological degradation and stabilisation of organic waste with the help of earthworms and various microbes help to create vermicompost through the process of vermicomposting (Joshi and Chauhan 2006). Vermicompost is playing a crucial role in today’s organic farming and very much harmless to the crops. It is a stable fine granular organic matter which eventually increases the passage in the soil for the entry of air. It also allows the organic carbon to get released slowly in the soil slowly and steadily which thereby enables the crops or plants to absorb those nutrients properly (Allen, 2016). \r\nVermicompost strikingly supports the three-pillar model of sustainability and it is a product which supports the philosophy of sustainability. This is such a technology which is ‘economically viable’, ‘environmentally sustainable’ and ‘socially acceptable’ at the same time (Mahmud et al., 2016). This is an impressive technology particularly in the context of contemporary climate change as it maintains the principles of sustainability and helps to maintain the crop as well as the soil health. \r\nTraining is a critical input in improving farmers’ knowledge and skills level as it provides an excellent opportunity to the farmers for learning by doing themselves. The KVK training provides an opportunity for the farmers to inculcate a transparent idea about the vermicompost technology, particularly the preparation of vermicompost along with its application in the crop field. This kind of training helps the peasants to find a way of self employment and it supports the way towards poverty eradication at a micro level. This certainly helps to open new avenues of employment generation for hundreds of rural poor and thereby acts as a modifier in their livelihood status (Gaikwad and Gunjal 2000). This era has introduced a vicious facet of climate change and farming sector is a direct arena which is suffering from the ill effects. Effect of synthetic fertilizers in the land is creating a bunch of intangible troubles not only in the crop production, but also in the soil quality as well as produce quality. Indian Council of Agriculture Research (ICAR) along with the state department of agriculture is acting in tandem towards that direction by providing thorough support to the stakeholders. \r\nThis present study was designed with 2 specific objectives to accomplish and those are as follows:\r\n— To explore the extent of adoption level of the farmers after attending the vermicompost training programme organised by the Krishi Vigyan Kendra (KVKs)\r\n— To assess the impact of the farmers concerned with the vermicompost technology in the post KVK training period on vermicompost technology\r\nMETHODOLOGY\r\nResearch design and Sources of data: The data were collected from a specific group of farmers who took part in various training programs organised by different Krishi Vigyan Kendra (KVKs)/Farm Science Centres of the state Bihar. This study was designed to assess the level of adoption along with their impact after attending those training programs. The study was conducted in 3 districts of Bihar state viz. Samastipur, Muzaffarpur and Madhubani. 2 blocks from each of these districts were selected randomly for conducting this study. Pusa and Tajpur bocks were selected from Samastipur, Saraiya and Marwan blocks were selected from Muzaffarpur and Madhwapur with Bisfi blocks were selected from Madhubani district. The particular villages under this very study were Morsand, Karmila, Thahra and Kothia in Samastipur district; Birpur, Anandpur, Dwarikapur Khaie, Bhagwatpur and Jhakhra Shekh in Muzaffarpur district; Basuki Bihari, Mahua, Pihwara, Sahar, Jagwan and Lohra in Madhubani district. 25 farmers from each of the selected blocks were interviewed in a face-to-face situation using a pre-tested interview schedule and the data were collected from 150 farmers in total who have attended at least a single vermicompost training conducted by the local KVKs.\r\nExtent of Adoption level- Total 20 questions were asked to test the adoption of the farmers and each of those are scored as 0, 1, 2, 3 and 4 for ‘very low’ adoption, low ,moderate high, ‘high’ adoption and very high adoption respectively completely based on the responses of the respondents. The adoption of each respondent was then calculated by estimating the adoption index for each of them. The respondents were categorised into 5 distinct categories i.e. very low’ adoption group, low, medium adoption group high adoption group and very high adoption group based on the statistical estimation of arithmetic mean and standard deviation. \r\nImpact Assessment- Total 20 questions were asked to test the skills of the farmers and each of those are scored as 0, 1 and 2 for Low impact, moderate and high impact respectively completely based on the responses of the respondents in the 3-point continuum. The respondents were categorised into 3 distinct categories i.e. low impact group, medium impact group and highly impact group based on the statistical estimation of arithmetic mean and standard deviation. Statistical treatments such as percentage, arithmetic mean, standard deviation, average were used which are the part of descriptive statistics. The data were duly analysed as well as categorised by using these tools in MS Excel. \r\nRESULTS AND DISCUSSION \r\nA. Extent of adoption of vermi-compost technology among trainees\r\nIt was found that the maximum number of farmers (62%) in Samastipur is holding medium level of adoption concerned with vermicompost technology, followed by 14% farmers holding high level of adoption and 12% farmers holding low level of adoption. This quantitative distribution was based on the arithmetic mean = 70.77 and the standard deviation = 26.23 of Samastipur district. However more than half of the farmers (54%) in Muzaffarpur district are holding moderate level of adoption, followed by 18% farmers holding very high level of adoption and 12% farmers holding very low level of adoption. This quantitative distribution was based on the arithmetic mean=72.45 and the standard deviation=35.55. In Madhubani district, the data follow the similar kind of trend. 56% of the farmers were holding medium level of adoption, followed by 18% of the farmers holding high level of adoption and 16% of the farmers holding very high level of adoption. This quantitative distribution was based on the arithmetic mean = 72.88 and the standard deviation=34.12 respectively. The findings were in line with Swetha et al. (2020) and confirmity with Joshi (2004) and Modi et al. (2008) were in similar pattern with Around 56.67 per cent of respondents who had attended training at Krishi Vigyan Kendra had formed the vermicompost as an enterprise, and 41.18 percent of those who had adopted belonged to a high adoption level.\r\n\r\nB. Impact assessment of training on vermi-compost technology among trainees\r\n The majority of farmers i.e. 72% were found to be having a moderate level of impact on vermicompost technology, followed by 18 % of farmers who had a low impact level and 10% of farmers who had a high level of impact in Samastipur District. This quantitative distribution was based on the Samastipur district\'s arithmetic mean of 71.56 and standard deviation of 24.67. However, in the Muzaffarpur district, more than half of the farmers (64%) had a moderate level of impact, followed by 22% of farmers with a low level of impact and 14% of farmers with a high level of impact. The arithmetic mean and standard deviation of this quantitative distribution were 72.76 and 23.24, respectively. The findings exhibit a similar pattern in the Madhubani district. Farmers held a medium level of impact in 68 percent of the cases, a high level of impact in 18 percent of the cases, and a low level of impact in 14 percent of the cases. Based on an arithmetic mean of 78.24 and a standard deviation of 23.76, this quantitative distribution was created. While Tiwari et al. (2020) found in their research that the impact assessment of the trainees was necessary to evaluate these training programmes, the current study was conducted to learn the impact assessment of the participants and suggestions from the trainees to improve the upcoming training courses. The majority of participants enrolled in the training programme to pursue an occupation in vermin composting, whereas 10.5% enrolled purely for receiving a certificate of completion. Three ideas made by the participants for making improvements to future programmes were placing more emphasis on practical sessions, providing printed materials, and extensive publicising.\r\n','Satya Prakash, A.K. Singh, Alok Kumar, Mahesh Kumar & Ankita Das (2022). Understanding the Level of Farmers’ Explore the Extent of Adoption & Impact Over the socio-economic and Production Scenario on Vermicompost: A Post Training Behavioural Exploration of the Small-holder Farmers in Bihar State of India. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 14(2): 1510-1513.'),(5086,'125','Yield and Yield Attributes of Garden Pea (Pisum sativum L.) varieties under Southern Region of Karnataka','P. Anitha* and B.G. Hanumantharaya','259 Yield and Yield Attributes of Garden Pea _Pisum sativum L._ varieties under Southern Region of Karnataka P. Anitha.pdf','',1,'The material for the present study comprised of 15 Varieties of Garden pea from various sources across the country to study their yield potential under South Karnataka region. As there is no specific high yielding genotype of Garden pea recommended for cultivation in Bengaluru region, which is located on the Deccan plateau, it is a main challenge to identify a suitable high yielding genotype for southern region of Karnataka so as to recommend for similar situations. The varieties were assessed for performance on yield and quality at College of Agriculture and Research Institute, UAS, GKVK, Bengaluru, India during Rabi 2019-20 and 2020-21. The experiment revealed the presence of significant differences for almost all the major yield and quality contributing characters studied. Among the 15 varieties evaluated, from two seasons pooled average Arka Karthik recorded the highest Pod length (10.30 cm), weight of pod (9.42 g), number of pods plant-1 (50.22), number of green peas per pod (9.50), yield of pods plant-1 (185.80 g), yield of pods plot-1 (4.35 kg) and yield hectare-1 (217.75 q ha-1tonnes) whereas Kashi Uday produced the days to first flower (34.90), and days to fifty percent flowering (44.50). Garden Pea being one of the most suitable vegetable crops for Rabi cultivation, the identified varieties could be raised by the farming community of the region for enhanced yield and economic benefits. ','Garden pea, Varieties, performance, yield, quality','Among the 15 varieties evaluated, Arka Karthik was found to outperform with an yield of (217.75 q ha-1), followed by Kashi Uday (181.50 ha-1) and Arka Apoorva (170.75 ha-1) and these Varieties could be commercially explored as being one of the most suitable vegetable crops for rabi cultivation in this region.','INTRODUCTION\r\nGarden pea (Pisum sativum L.) is an important cool season legume vegetable crop (Rabbi et al., 2011). Pea cultivation is wide spread in areas having a mild and warm climate, because relatively high or low temperatures are the most important factors limiting pea cultivation (Ambrose, 2008). The genus Pisum was considered to be consisted of five species: P. fulvum, P. abyssinicum, P. sativum L., P. humile and P. elatius mostly found in Mediterranean area and West Asia, out of which only P. sativum is cultivated (Verhinin et al., 2003). P. sativum having a chromosome number 2n=14, plant is short lived, herbaceous annual which climbs by leaflets tendrils. It is a nutritious vegetable and rich source of protein, and essential amino acid particularly lysine (Nawab et al, 2008) carbohydrate, Vit-A, Vit-C, potassium, phosphorous, minerals, dietary fibers and antioxidant compounds (Urbano et al., 2003; Kichi et al., 2003) . \r\nEach 100 g edible portion of the green pea contains moisture 78 g, protein 6.3 g, carbohydrates 14.4 g, energy 84 Kcal, calcium 26 mg, phosphorus 116 mg, iron 1.9 mg and vitamin A 640 IU (Thamburaj, 2013; Peter et al, 2012). On the basis of seed pea cultivars are divided into two classes, i.e., smooth or wrinkle seeded types; on the basis of height cultivars are classified into three classes, i.e., bush, medium tall and tall types and according to maturity three classes are early, midseason and late cultivars (Datta and Das, 2018). Garden pea is consumed as fresh or cooked vegetable, it is also consumed as processed products like canned, dehydrated and frozen for consumption in off season. In India garden pea occupies about 2.5% of total vegetable production with 9.8 t ha-1 of average national productivity (Anonymous, 2018). India is the largest producer of garden pea next to China (Anonymous, 2011).\r\nAs large number of garden pea varieties is now available in the market, considering the above issues, there is a need to compare some of the available varieties select high yielding, better adaptable varieties for commercial cultivation in any specific region. Therefore, the present investigation was focused to identify superior and promising garden pea varieties in respect to yield and other quality contributing characters under southern region of Karnataka as no similar studies on identification of high yielding genotypes for southern ecosystem has been attempted. The present study assumes significance in this context.\r\nMATERIAL AND METHODS \r\nThe field experiment was conducted during 2019-20 and 2020-21 from October to January at Horticulture Research Station, Department of Horticulture, College of Agriculture, UAS, GKVK, Bengaluru. The material consisted of 15 varieties of Garden Peas from different parts of the country. The experiment was laid out in a Randomized Complete Block Design, replicated thrice. A plot size of (2.1 m × 0.9 m) was maintained for each treatment in each replication. The experimental field was well prepared by following Vermicompost and fertilizer doses were applied. Accordingly, 10 tonnes of FYM, 12.5 kg Nitrogen, 75 kg Phosphorus, and 50 kg Potash were applied per hectare during experimental plot land preparation, and 12.5 kg Nitrogen was applied 30 days after sowing. The seeds were sown on beds depth of 4 to 5 cm using the dibbling method, with a spacing of 30 cm × 10. The cultural practices as recommended were uniformly followed. Observations were recorded on five plants from each replication in each Variety for various Yield and yield contributing characters as suggested by Mahajan et al., (2000). The mean data were subjected to statistical analysis as suggested by Panse and Sukhatme (1978).\r\nRESULTS AND DISCUSSION \r\nYield attributes. The results indicated the existence of significant differences among the Garden Pea Varieties for all the yield traits observed (Table 1, 2 & 3). From the two seasons pooled data the highest length of pod was observed in Arka Karthik (10.30 cm), followed by Arka Apoorva (10.12 cm) and PSM-6 (9.97 cm), whereas minimum length of pod (6.51) was recorded in Magadi Local. The difference in average length of pod of different Varieties due to their genetic make-up had already been observed and reported by Bhushan et al. (2013), Sharma et al. (2013). The width of pod recorded was maximum in Arka Karthik (2.66 cm) followed by Arka Apoorva and Kashi Uday (2.27 cm). The lowest width of pod was noted in Magadi Local (6.19 cm). Such variation for width of pod has been reported by Kumar and Kohali (2001), the highest weight of pod was observed in (9.42 g) in Arka Karthik followed by PSM-6 (9.25 g) and Kashi Uday (9.26 g) whereas the lowest weight of pod (5.50 g) was recorded in Magadi Local. The variation for weight of pod due to variation in Genotypes. Kumar and Kohali (2001), also reported similar findings from their experiment on Garden Pea. In the present study, the highest number of green peas per pod (9.50) was recorded in Arka Karthik followed by PSM-6 (9.00) and Arka Apoorva (8.93) whereas number of green peas per pod was the lowest in (6.17) Magadi Local. These findings are in conformity with the earlier findings of Mukherjee et al. (2013); Phom et al. (2014). Among the garden pea varieties evaluated, highest number of pods per plant was registered in Arka Karthik (20.29) followed by Arka Apoorva (19.69) and Arka Uttam (15.03). Whereas the lowest number of pos plant-1 (6.81) was observed in Magadi Local. The results corroborate with the findings of Amjad and Anjum (2002); Ankur et al. (2006); Khan et al. (2013) Higher hundred pod weight was observed in Arka Karthik (959.97 g), followed by Kashi Uday (904.53 g) and Arka Apoorva whereas lower hundred pod weight (565.21 g) was recorded in Magadi Local. The difference in hundred pod weight of different Varieties due to their genetic make-up had already been observed and reported by Ankur et al. (2006); Khan et al. (2013). The higher hundred seed weight recorded was maximum in Arka Karthik (51.67 g), which was on par with Kashi Uday (49.20 g), Arka Apoorva (46.65 g) and Kashi Nandini (44.61 g), while the lowest hundred seed weight (32.37 g), was recorded in Magadi Local (C). Similar variations were observed in Chadha et al. (2013) in Garden pea. Lesser number of days taken for commencement of first pod formation (40.74), after sowing was recorded in Kashi Uday which was significantly at par with Kashi Nandini (42.04), Kashi Ageti (44.19) and Kashi Mukti (44.71). More days taken for commencement of first pod formation (66.80) was observed in Magadi Local. Similar findings were observed in Amin et al. (2014), and Patel et al (2006) days taken for last picking after sowing (107.73) was observed in Arka Karthik followed by Arka Apoorva (104.47) and Arka Uttam (103.90). Lesser days taken for last picking after sowing (90.03) was observed in Kashi Ageti which was on par with PSM-3 (90.73) and PSM-6 (90.95). Similar findings were reported in Amin et al. (2014); Patel et al. (2006). Lesser days were taken for marketable maturity after sowing (51.19) was observed in Kashi Uday followed by Kashi Nandini (52.37), Kashi Mukti (52.91) and PSM-6 (52.97). Most days taken for marketable maturity after sowing (71.85) were recorded in Magadi Local (C). These findings are in conformity with the earlier findings of Kalloo et al. (2005) in vegetable pea. \r\n\r\nMaximum pod yield plant-1 was recorded in Arka Karthik (185.80 g), followed by Arka Apoorva (173.67 g) and Kashi Uday (118.85 g) whereas the pod yield plant-1 recorded was the least in Magadi Local (49.32 g). The yield of pods plant-1 is directly related to number of primary branches, number of pods and pod weight and similar results in Garden Pea has been reported Khan et al. (2013) in Garden pea. The pod yield plot-1 ranged from 4.35 to 1.26 kg-1 with the highest fruit yield plot-1 registered in (4.35 kg/ plot), Arka Karthik followed by Kashi Uday (3.63 kg/ plot) and Arka Apoorva (3.41 kg/ plot) respectively. The Pod yield plot-1 was the lowest in Magadi Local (1.26 kg/ plot). The yield of pods per hectare-1 (217.75 q ha-1) was maximum in Arka Karthik followed by Kashi Uday (181.50 q/ha) and Arka Apoorva) (170.75 q ha-1) the differences in yield could be attributed to the differential genetic make-up and adaptability for the given agro climatic conditions by the hybrids as \r\nreported by Thorat et al. (2009) in cluster bean.\r\nYield is one of the most important complex traits and was found to be greatly affected by both environmental conditions and management. Variations in green pod yield per plant among different Garden Pea varieties might be due to the varietal characteristics coupled with environmental factor. The varieties that have demonstrated superior yield performance had a significantly greater number of primary branches and leaves on them, as well as greater number of nodes with more inflorescences, that could have resulted in the synthesis of more food material which was supplied to the pods resulted in greater yield per plant. In contrast, the lowest yield in variety Magadi Local (C) could be attributed to poor growth in terms of height of plant and branch count, resulting in the production of fewer carbohydrates. The variations among the different vegetable crops were also reported by several workers i.e. Chadha et al. (2013) in garden pea.\r\nThe results indicated the existence of significant differences among the Garden Pea Varieties for all the Qualitative traits observed (Table 4). Maximum firmness was recorded in Arka Karthik (24.55 N) followed by Arka Apoorva (23.23 N). Whereas the least was recorded in Magadi Local (17.73 N). Similar results in Garden pea have been reported earlier by Phom et al. (2014) in vegetable pea. The moisture content ranged from 51.99 % to 74.99 % with the highest moisture content registered in Arka Karthik, (74.99 %) followed by Kashi Uday (72.99%), and PSM-6 (72.62 %) respectively where as the lowest was recorded in Magadi Local (34.81%). Differences in moisture content might be due to the genetic constitution of the genotypes. Similar results have been reported by Mukherjee et al. (2013) in vegetable pea. The shelling percentage was the maximum in Arka Karthik, (51.75%) followed by Kashi Uday (51.10 %), and PSM-6 (50.80%) respectively and the lowest was recorded in Magadi Local (34.81 %) differences in \r\nshelling percentage among the varieties was also possibly due to genetical variation. Such type of varietal differences was also reported by Thakor (2008), Mukherjee et al. (2013) in vegetable pea. Pooled data results have significantly higher T.S.S (17.29 0Brix) was recorded in Pant Uphar which was found to be on par with PSM-4 (16.30 0Brix) and Kashi Uday (16.240Brix) while the lowest T.S.S (12.82 0Brix) was recorded in Magadi Local (C). Similar results were obtained by Khichi et al. (2016) in garden pea. Higher protein content (25.18 %) was recorded in Arka Karthik which was found to be on par with PSM-6 (23.17 %), Arka Uttam (22.62 %) and Arka Apoorva (22.11 %), while the lowest protein content (11.14) was recorded in variety Magadi Local (C). The difference in protein content may be due to variation in genotypes. However, factors such as pH, ionic strength, or the presence of other ingredients will affect the functional properties of garden pea protein. Such variations were also reported by Khichi et al. (2016) in garden pea.\r\n','P. Anitha and B. G. Hanumantharaya (2022). Yield and Yield Attributes of Garden Pea (Pisum Sativum L.) varieties under Southern Region of Karnataka. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 14(2): 1514-1519.'),(5087,'125','Impact of certain Biochemicals on the Expression of Resistance in certain Chilli Germplasm to Chilli Thrips, Scirtothrips dorsalis Hood','S. Leela Praveen*, L.N. Mohapatra, P. Naresh and G.S. Sahu','260 Impact of certain Biochemicals on the Expression of Resistance in certain Chilli Germplasm to Chilli Thrips, Scirtothrips dorsalis Hood S. LEELA PRAVEEN.pdf','',1,'The biochemical factors viz., low proline, protein, total sugars and reducing sugar content and high contents of phenol, non-reducing sugar and total chlorophyll in the leaves contributed to imparting resistance in chilli germplasm to chilli thrips, Scirtothrips dorsalis Hood. The resistant germplasm viz., BC-7-2-1, BC-25 and moderately resistant germplam viz., BC-27-2-2, BC-21, BC-79-1, Utkal Abha and BC-406 had 3.76-6.33 µ moles/ gram of proline,13.56-15.96 mg/ gram protein, 3.59-3.99 per cent total sugar, 1.01-1.54 per cent reducing sugar, 2.96-4.12 mg/ gram phenol, 2.45-2.58 per cent non-reducing sugar and 13.68 - 16.44 mg/ gram total chlorophyll in leaf sample, respectively as against 7.3-8.92 µ moles/ gram, 16.32-18.54 mg/ gram, 4.32-4.59 per cent, 1.93-2.28 per cent, 1.46-2.38 mg/ gram, 2.31-2.39 per cent and 9.96-12.47 mg/ gram in the leaves of susceptible and highly susceptible check chilli germplasm, respectively. A significantly inverse relation existed between the phenol (-0.975), non-reducing sugar (-0.985) and total chlorophyll (-0.990) and the incidence of S. dorsalis. The multiple linear regression analysis revealed that all these biochemical factors together influenced the population of S. dorsalis to an extent of 97.32 per cent.','Resistance, chiili germplasm, thrips, S. dorsalis, Biochemicals','The foregoing discussion lead to the inference that low proline, protein, total sugars and reducing sugar content and high contents of phenol, non-reducing sugar and total chlorophyll in the leaves contributed to imparting resistance in chilli germplasm to S. dorsalis. So these germplasm may be utilized for future breeding of leaf curl tolerant chilli lines. ','INTRODUCTION\r\nAmong the arthropod pests, chilli thrips, Scirtothrips dorsalis Hood (Thysanoptera: Thripidae) is known to pose serious threat to chilli cultivation and is primarily responsible for low productivity in India. Fruit yield loss due to this dreaded pest in India is estimated to be to the tune of 50-90 per cent (Kandasamy et al. 1990). Frequency of insecticide application have increased over the years in chilli ecosystem for managing S. dorsalis as result of which the cost of cultivation has increased enormously and making cultivation of chilli highly risky. In addition to this, pesticidal sprays became a threat to chilli ecosystem causing problems of resistance, resurgence of pests, pesticidal residues and menace to natural enemies fauna (David 1986; Awasthi et al., 2011). Host plant resistance having compatibility with all other methods of pest control without causing any adverse effect in chilli ecosystem has been considered as an important IPM component. Identification of resistant/tolerant chilli germplasm is the most vital option to manage this dreaded pest for which knowledge on morphological and biochemical bases of resistance is highly essential. Several biochemicals in crop plants are known to provide resistance to insect pests. In the present investigation an attempt has been made to study the biochemical components in the leaves of the some chilli germplasms and their relation with thrips incidence so as to identify the source of resistance for use in breeding programme.\r\nMATERIALS AND METHODS\r\nTwelve chilli germplasms viz., BC-25, BC-79-1, BC-27-2-2, Utkal Abha, BC-21, BC-406, BC-28, LCA-620, BC-78-1-2, BC-24-1 along with resistant check BC-7-2-1 and susceptible check Byadagi kaddi were evaluated under pot culture experiment in Department of Entomology, Odisha University of Agriculture and Technology, Bhubaneswar, Odisha during 2019-20 under insect free conditions. The experiment was laid out in randomized block design with three replications. The chilli germplasms were raised in pot tray and transplanted at six weeks after germination. Three plants per genotype were planted in 10 x 12 inches poly bag. Plants were spaced 60 cm between rows and 45 cm between plants in a row. Agronomic practices recommended for the pot culture crop were followed. Observations on population of nymphs and adults of S. dorsalis were recorded on three leaves of chilli at top, middle and bottom canopy from three plants at weekly interval from the appearance of the pest to last picking of the chilli fruits. The population was counted visually by using a magnifying lens in early morning hours (Bhede et al., 2008). For studies on biochemical bases of resistance in selected chilli germplasm to S. dorsalis, leaf samples from pot culture experiment at 60 DAT coinciding with the peak activity period of S. dorsalis were used. Standard procedures as suggested by various researchers followed for estimating the biochemicals viz., proline content (Bates et al., 1973), phenol content (Malick and Singh 1980), protein content (Lowry et al., 1951), total soluble sugar (Hedge and Hofreieter 1962), reducing sugar (Somogyi, 1952), non-reducing sugar content (Somogyi, 1952) and chlorophyll content (Arnon, 1949). Each sample was replicated thrice and the data on all these biochemical factors of leaf samples were subjected to statistical analysis. The chemical constituents of leaf samples of various test chilli germplasm were correlated with the population of S. dorsalis. \r\nRESULTS AND DISCUSSION\r\n Results of analysis of mean pool data of 14DAT, 21 DAT, 28 DAT, 35 DAT, 42 DAT, 56 DAT, 63 DAT, 70 DAT, 77 DAT, 84 DAT, 91 DAT and 98 DAT on population of S. dorsalis in different chilli germplasm revealed significantly lowest mean population of S. dorsalis in the resistant germplasm BC-7-2-1(resistant check) (0.70) which was at par with other resistant germplasm BC-25 (0.72). Lower population of S. dorsalis ranging from 1.18 to 1.31 per leaf was observed in the five moderately resistant germplasm viz., BC-27-2-2 (1.18), BC-21 (1.22), BC-79-1 (1.25), Utkal Abha (1.29) and BC-406 (1.31). The susceptible check Byadagi kaddi recorded the highest population of S. dorsalis (2.46/leaf) which was at par with the other susceptible germplasm BC-24-1 (2.38/leaf). The population of S. dorsalis ranged from 1.86/leaf (BC-28) to 1.93/leaf (BC-78-1-2) in rest of the susceptible germplasm (Table 1).\r\nThe results of the study on biochemical compositions of leaves of twelve selected chilli germplasm revealed significant difference in proline, phenol, protein, total sugars, reducing sugars, non-reducing sugars and chlorophyll content amongst them (Table 2).\r\nProline: The proline content in the leaves of twelve test chilli germplasm ranged between 3.76 µ moles/ gram and 8.92 µ moles/ gram (Table 2). The resistant check germplasm BC-7-2-1 had lowest proline content of 3.76 µ moles/ gram which was closely followed by the other resistant chilli germplasm BC-25 (3.89 µ moles/ gram). The moderately resistant germplasm viz., BC-27-2-2, BC-21, BC-79-1, Utkal Abha and BC-406 had comparatively low proline content of 4.47, 4.82, 5.33, 6.09 and 6.33 µ moles/ gram, respectively than the susceptible and highly susceptible germplasm where the proline content ranged between 7.3 and 8.92 µ moles/ gram. Highest proline content was recorded in the susceptible check Byadagi kaddi (8.92 µ moles/ gram) followed by the other susceptible germplasm BC-24-1 (8.55 µ moles/ gram).\r\nProline, an amino acid has been shown to accumulate in many plants in response to abiotic and biotic stresses, where it plays a protective role including antioxidant function, protein protection and synthesis (as chaperone) and as a signalling molecule (Szabados and Savoure 2009). It is known to participate in a number of physiological functions in insects. Herbivory of plants generally stimulates accumulation of proline whereas total carbohydrate content decreases and content of phenolics remains unaffected (Khattab, 2007). The excessive synthesis of proline may have resulted in the cytosol at the expense of protein and resulted into the accumulation of excessive proline in the tissues as defensive arsenal in proportion to severity of herbivores. Diet selection based on the level of proline in an insect\'s host plant has been observed for a number of phytophagous insects. Information on relationship of proline content with the incidence of S. dorsalis in chilli is meagre in published literature. Khattab and Khattab (2005) reported that proline concentration in insect infested eucalyptus leaves was higher. Herbivory caused by grasshopper, Choreodocus illustris resulted more damaged leaves which reduced the plant growth due to loss of chlorophyll content and led to proline accumulation at the cost of protein (Rehman et al., 2016). According to Nasrin et al. (2021), the susceptible chilli variety BINA Morich 2 had highest proline activity in the leaves as compared to less proline content in the leaves of moderately resistant variety BARI Morich 2. Thus, the present observations confirmed the findings of these authors. Evidence in support of the significantly positive correlation between the incidence of S. dorsalis in chilli and the proline activity was also reported by Nasrin et al. (2021).\r\nPhenol: The phenol content of leaf samples of the twelve selected test germplasm varied from 1.46 mg g-1 to 4.12 mg g-1, the lowest being in susceptible check germplasm Byadagi kaddi and highest in the resistant check germplasm BC-7-2-1 (Table 2). The phenol content was higher (2.96 mg g-1 to 4.12 mg g-1) in the leaves of germplasm viz., BC-7-2-1 (resistant check) (4.12mg g-1), BC-25 (3.86 mg g-1), BC-27-2-2 (3.74 mg g-1), BC-21 (3.67 mg g-1), BC-79-1 (3.58 mg g-1), Utkal Abha (3.28 mg g-1) and BC-406 (2.96mg g-1) showing moderate resistance reaction to S. dorsalis as compared to the highly susceptible and susceptible germplasm viz., Byadagi kaddi (susceptible check), BC-24-1, BC-78-1-2, LCA-620 and BC-28 where it ranged from 1.46 to 2.38 mg g-1.\r\nPhenolics are the aromatic benzene ring compounds with one or more hydroxyl groups produced in the plant for protection against biotic stresses (Showket et al., 2017). These compounds are associated with the resistant traits of several crop plants (Link and Walker, 1933). The enhancement in the phenol contents in response to insect infestation is considered to be a general phenomenon as it reduces the growth and development of herbivores (Ramiro et al., 2006 and War et al., 2012). Phenolic compounds induced in the plants are either directly toxic to insects or mediate the signaling of various transduction pathways, which in turn produce toxic secondary metabolites and activate various defensive enzymes (Helmi and Mohamed 2016). Higher level of phenols in several resistant/moderately resistant crops leads to low incidence of thrips possibly due to unpalatability of the food materials. Low incidence of S. dorsalis in chilli due to higher phenol content in the leaves was earlier reported by Mondal et al. (2013); Rameash et al. (2015); Rameash et al. (2017); Latha and Hunumanthraya (2018); Chaudhary and Pandya (2019). The findings on significantly negative correlation between phenol content in the chilli leaves and the incidence of S. dorsalis are in conformity with the results reported by Roopa (2013); Megharaj et al. (2016); Latha and Hunumanthraya (2018).\r\nProtein: The protein content in the leaves of tested chilli germplasm ranged between 13.56 mg g-1 (BC-7-2-1) (resistant check) and 18.54 mg g-1 (Byadagi kaddi) (susceptible check) (Table 2). The protein content was comparatively low (13.56 mg g-1to 15.96 mg g-1) in the leaves of resistant and moderately resistant germplasm viz.,BC-7-2-1 (13.56 mg g-1), BC-25 (13.96 mg g-1), BC-27-2-2 (14.22 mg g-1), BC-21 (14.39 mg g-1), BC-79-1 (14.94 mg g-1), Utkal Abha (15.36 mg g-1) and BC-406 (15.96 mg g-1). The germplasm viz., BC-28, LCA-620, BC-78-1-2, BC-24-1 and Byadagi kaddi (susceptible check) having higher infestation of S. dorsalis were with higher protein content of (16.32 mg g-1to18.54 mg g-1).\r\nProteins are the central biomolecules that are responsible for all cellular functions in the living organism. Modifications in plant protein profiles are the first response of plants to insect herbivory. Such qualitative and quantitative changes in proteins play an important role in signal transduction and oxidative defense of plants (Green and Ryan 1972; Rafi et al., 1996; Ni et al., 2001). Information on change in total protein content in the leaves of chilli due to attack of S. dorsalis is scarce in published literature. The present results are comparable with Chen et al. (2009) who stated that an increase in protein content is a general phenomenon in plants in response to insect damage as defence mechanism. Chilli cultivars with higher quantity of total proteins enhanced susceptibility to thrips damage (Alabi et al., 2005). Roopa (2013) reported higher content of total proteins in the susceptible chilli genotypes to S. dorsalis as compared to the moderately resistant genotypes. According to Chaudhary and Pandya (2019), the chilli variety GVC-111 harbouring a moderately population of S. dorsalis had minimum protein content in the leaves as compared to maximum protein content in the leaves of a susceptible chilli genotypes GCH-3. All these findings of previous workers are in full agreement with the results of the present investigation. The positive relationship as found in the present study between the total protein content of leaves and infestation of S. dorsalis corroborates with the findings of Roopa (2013); Chaudhary and Pandya (2019). \r\nTotal sugar: The total sugar content in the leaves of twelve test chilli germplasm varied from 3.59 per cent to 4.59 per cent (Table 2). The resistant check germplasm BC-7-2-1 had lowest total sugar content of 3.59 per cent which was closely followed by the other resistant chilli germplasm BC-25 (3.62 per cent). The moderately resistant germplasm viz., BC-27-2-2, BC-21, BC-79-1, Utkal Abha and BC-406 had comparatively low total sugar content of 3.85, 3.90, 3.92, 3.98 and 3.99 per cent respectively, than the susceptible and highly susceptible germplasm where the total sugar content ranged between 4.32 and 4.59 per cent. Highest total sugar content was recorded in the susceptible check Byadagi kaddi (4.59 per cent) which was closely followed by the highly susceptible germplasm BC-24-1 (4.57 per cent).\r\nSugars, the dominant soluble leaf carbohydrates of plants are the substrates in respiratory reactions or intermediate metabolites in many other biochemical processes. They have protective role against stress factors, for example, as osmoprotectants, donors of carbon skeletons or signaling molecules (Ciereszko 2009; Morkunas and Ratajczak 2014). These compounds are also involved in the synthesis of phenolic compounds, lectins, etc. as defence mechanism. The role of plant sugar contents in the resistance of various crops to sucking pest was earlier reported by Mittler (1967), Corcuera (1993) and Nawalgatti et al. (1993). The observations in respect of lower total sugar content in the leaves of resistant and moderately resistant chilli germplasm are in full conformity with the findings of Roopa (2013); Subhash et al. (2013); Chaudhary and Pandya (2019). Several earlier researchers also observed significant positive correlation between the incidence of S. dorsalis and the total sugar content in the leaves of chilli germplasm (Roopa, 2013; Subhash et al., 2013).\r\nReducing sugar: The reducing sugar content in the leaves of twelve test chilli germplasm ranged between 1.01 per cent and 2.28 per cent (Table 2). Lowest reducing sugar content of 1.01 per cent was observed in the resistant check germplasm BC-7-2-1 which was closely followed by the other resistant chilli germplasm BC-25 (1.06 per cent). A lower range of reducing sugar content (1.33 to 1.54 per cent) was recorded in the moderately resistant germplasm viz., BC-27-2-2, BC-21, BC-79-1, Utkal Abha and BC-406 as compared to the susceptible and highly susceptible germplasm where the reducing sugar content ranged between 2.03 and 2.28 per cent. Highest reducing sugar content was recorded in the susceptible check Byadagi kaddi (2.28 per cent) which was closely followed by the highly susceptible germplasm BC-24-1 (2.27 per cent).\r\nReducing sugars are the disaccharides, oligosaccharides, polysaccharides and all monosaccharides in the host plant which influence positively the feeding of insect pests. These are the essential component in insect nutrition. The more reducing sugars resulted in more sweetness of leaves which act as a feeding stimulant for sucking pests. Genotypes containing higher total sugars with high reducing sugars exhibited susceptibility towards thrips incidence. Lower amount of reducing sugar in the leaves of chilli genotypes resistant/moderately resistant to S. dorsalis was observed by several earlier researchers (Varadharajan and Veeravel 1996; Megharaj et al., 2016; Chaudhary and Pandya 2019). The present observations are in close akin with the findings of the above workers and that of Subhash et al. (2013) who have also reported positive relationship between reducing sugar content in the leaves and the incidence of S. dorsalis.\r\nNon- reducing sugar: The non- reducing sugar content of leaf samples of the selected test germplasm varied from 2.30 per cent to 2.58 per cent, the lowest being in highly susceptible germplasm BC-24-1 and highest in the resistant check germplasm BC-7-2-1 (Table 2). The leaves of germplasm viz., BC-7-2-1, BC-25, BC-27-2-2, BC-21, BC-79-1, Utkal Abha and BC-406 showing resistance reaction to S. dorsalis had comparatively higher non- reducing sugar content (2.45 to 2.58 per cent) as compared to the susceptible and highly susceptible germplasm viz., BC-24-1, Byadagi kaddi (SC), BC-78-1-2, LCA-620 and BC-28 where it ranged from 2.30 to 2.39 per cent.\r\nNon reducing sugars are the polysaccharides in plant and the most common example of non-reducing sugar is sucrose. Sucrose is the major product of photosynthesis and contributes to various regulatory mechanisms in plants including growth and development, differential gene expression and stress-related responses (Wind et al., 2010). Involvement of non reducing sugars having more insects feeding on plants has been reported in different plant insect interaction studies (Athar et al., 2011). Information on relationship of non reducing content in the leaves with the incidence of S. dorsalis in chilli is rather scarce in published literature except the report of Megharaj et al. (2016); Chaudhary and Pandya (2019) who recorded lower reducing sugar content in chilli germplasm harbouring moderate population of S. dorsalis. The negative relationship as found in the present study between the non reducing sugar content of leaves and infestation of S. dorsalis is in accordance with the findings of Megharaj et al. (2016); Chaudhary and Pandya (2019). \r\nTotal chlorophyll content: The total chlorophyll content (sum of chlorophyll-a and chlorophyll-b) in the leaves of twelve test chilli germplasm varied from 9.96 mg g -1 to 16.44 mg g -1 (Table 2). The resistant check germplasm BC-7-2-1 had highest total chlorophyll content of 16.44 mg g-1 which was closely followed by the other resistant germplasm BC-25 (15.79 mg g-1). The moderately resistant germplasm viz., BC-27-2-2, BC-21, BC-79-1, Utkal Abha and BC-406 had comparatively higher total chlorophyll content of 14.31, 14.29, 14.19, 14.15 and 13.68 mg g-1 respectively, than susceptible and highly susceptible germplasm where total chlorophyll content ranged between 9.96 mg g-1 and 12.47 mg g-1. Lowest total chlorophyll content was recorded in the susceptible check Byadagi kaddi (9.96 mg g-1) which was closely followed by the highly susceptible germplasm BC-24-1 (10.63 mg g-1).\r\nPhotosynthetic pigment viz., leaf chlorophyll content and carotenoids in plant tissue are the key parameters in the photosynthetic productivity which gets altered during defensive responses against the attacking insect pest (Gomez et al., 2004; Mao et al., 2007). Helmi and Rashwann (2015) reported that photosynthetic pigments (chlorophyll a, chlorophyll b and carotenoids) showed negative relationship with sap sucking insects. The present observations on higher amount of chlorophyll content in the resistant and moderately resistant chilli germplasm corroborates with the report of Megharaj et al. (2016); Latha and Hanumantharay (2018); Chaudhary and Pandya (2019); Nasrin et al. (2021). The decrease in the photosynthetic pigment in the susceptible chilli germplasm might be ascribed to the inhibition of pigment biosynthesis which results from the alteration in mineral nutrition or lack of assimilates (Stacey and Keen 1996). Significantly negative relationship between total chlorophyll content of chilli leaves and the incidence of S. dorsalis was also reported earlier by Rameash et al. (2015); Megharaj et al. (2016); Latha and Hanumantharay (2018); Nasrin et al. (2021). The reason for negative association in the present study might be attributed to the reduction of leaf size and leaf curl owing to thrips infestation and consequent decline in the photosynthetic activity and chlorophyll content of leaves.\r\nResults on correlation studies between population of S. dorsalis and various biochemical parameters of chilli germplasm revealed that the population of S. dorsalis showed significant negative correlation with phenol (-0.975**), non-reducing sugars (-0.985**), chlorophyll a (-0.980**), chlorophyll b (-0.987**) and total chlorophyll (-0.990**) (Table 3). However, the relationship between proline (0.961**), protein (0.961**), total sugars (0.989**) and reducing sugars (0.989**) content of chilli leaves and the population of S. dorsalis was significantly positive.\r\nThe multiple linear regression analysis indicated that various biochemical parameters of chilli germplasm viz., proline (X1=0.0247), phenol (X2=0.1165), protein (X3=0.0323), total sugars (X4=0.0367), reducing sugars (X5=0.0646), non-reducing sugars (X6=2.1829), chlorophyll a (X7=0.0435), chlorophyll b (X8=0.0654) and total chlorophyll (X9=0.0308) together influenced the population of S. dorsalis to an extent of 97.32 per cent (Table 4).\r\n','S. Leela Praveen, L.N. Mohapatra, P. Naresh and G.S. Sahu (2022). Impact of certain Biochemicals on the Expression of Resistance in certain Chilli Germplasm to Chilli Thrips, Scirtothrips dorsalis Hood. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 14(2): 1520-1526.'),(5088,'125','Character Association Studies in Okra [Abelmoschus esculentus (L.) Moench] for Yield and Yield contributing Traits','Shwetha A.*, Basavaraja N., Raghavendra G., Pitchaimuthu M., Mesta R.K., Jagadeesha R.C. and Ganiger V.M.','261 Character Association Studies in Okra [Abelmoschus esculentus _L._ Moench] for Yield and Yield contributing Traits Shwetha A.pdf','',1,'Knowledge on the contribution of various traits to yield is very important for the selection programme. Correlation and path coefficient analysis were carried out to know character association among yield and yield contributing traits of okra. Forty-eight okra genotypes were evaluated in randomized complete block design with two replications in the field of Vegetable Science unit of College of Horticulture, Bagalkot during late-rabi season. The genotypic correlation analysis revealed that the average pod weight, pod diameter, number of branches per plant, number of pods per plant and days to 50 % flowering were significantly associated with total yield per plant. These traits also showed positive direct relationship with total yield per plant. Selection based on these characters would result in an increase in total yield per plant, and it is also very useful to develop high yielding genotypes through hybridization programme with the combination of aforementioned characters.','Okra, Correlation, Path coefficient, Genotype, Yield','The correlation and path analysis revealed that the average pod weight, pod diameter, number of branches per plant and number of pods per plant were the most important yield contributing traits in this study and selection based on these traits would be helpful in improving yield potential in okra hybrids/varieties.','INTRODUCTION\r\nOkra is an annual herbaceous plant belongs to the family Malvaceae having a somatic chromosome number 2n=130 in most of the Indian cultivars, and is considered to be an amphidiploid of Abelmoschus tuberulatus (2n=58) and unknown species with 20=72 (Datta and Naug 1968). Okra is especially valued for its tender and delicious green pods that are baked, canned and consumed in variety of forms in different parts of the country. It is considered as an important constituent of balanced food due to its rich dietary fibres and essential amino acids lysine and tryptophan (Hughes, 2009). India is the world’s largest producer of okra and has significant potential as a source of foreign currency and accounts for about 60 % of export of fresh vegetables (Singh et al., 2014).\r\nIt is often noted that some quantitative traits of economic importance are associated with one another. Correlation coefficient analysis measures the inter-relationship between several traits and identifies the constituent traits upon which selection would be based for genetic improvement of yield and yield related traits, and thus it assists in the selection of superior genotypes from diverse population (Singh and Narayanan, 2000). Yield is a complex character that is controlled by polygenes and also depends on various yield related traits (Samiksha et al., 2021). Therefore it is important to know the inter-relationship between yield and yield related traits. Correlation and path coefficient analysis gives information on yield and yield attributing characters and this will helpful for selection of superior lines/genotypes from diverse population. Keeping these things in view, the study was planned to find out the association of different quantitative traits and their direct and indirect effects on total yield per plant.\r\nMATERIAL AND METHODS\r\nForty-eight genotypes of okra collected from different sources viz., NBPGR New Delhi, IIVR Varanasi, IIHR Bengaluru, KAU Kerala and Advanta Seeds were used for the present investigation. The okra genotypes are evaluated for yield and yield related traits in the field of Vegetable Science unit of College of Horticulture, Bagalkot in randomized complete block design (RCBD) with two replications during late-rabi season 2019. Each treatment was represented by one row of 20 plants, spaced at 60 cm apart from row to row and 30 cm apart from plant to plant. Five plants from each genotype were selected randomly from each replication and evaluated for a several quantitative characters. The replicated mean values of these characters were then subjected to statistical analysis. Total yield per plant has been used as dependent variable with a set of nine independent characters viz., plant height, number of branches per plant, number of nodes on main stem, internodal length, days to 50 per cent flowering, pod length, pod diameter, average pod weight and number of pods per plant. The correlation coefficient was calculated using the method described by Singh and Choudhary (1977) to understand the association among the characters. The path coefficient analysis suggested by Wright (1921) was used to determine the direct and indirect effects of quantitative traits on pod yield.\r\nRESULTS AND DISCUSSION\r\nThe genotypic correlation, also known as the genotypic or breeding value of an individual, is the corresponding measure of association between genotypes of individuals. It is crucial for understanding the genetic relationship between traits and for forecasting the impact of selection on one trait on changes in other traits.\r\nThe data recorded during late-rabi season revealed that (Table 1), total yield per plant had positive and significant association with average pod weight (0.830), pod diameter (0.639), number of branches per plant (0.589), number of pods per plant (0.504) and days to 50 per cent flowering (0.256). Number of nodes on main stem showed positive and significant association with plant height (0.247). Internodal length exhibited significantly positive association with plant height (0.705) and significantly negative association with number of nodes on main stem (-0.592). Days to 50 per cent flowering showed positive and significant association with number of branches per plant (0.508) and significant negative association with plant height (-0.412) and internodal length (-0.216). Pod length recorded significant positive association with internodal length (0.499), number of branches per plant (0.286) and plant height (0.257), and showed significant negative association with number of nodes on main stem (-0.225). Pod diameter showed significant negative association with pod length (-0.234) and number of nodes on main stem (-0.204). Average pod weight recorded significant positive association with pod diameter (0.864) and significant negative association with number of nodes on main stem (-0.314). Number of pods per plant exhibited positive and significant association with number of branches per plant (0.815), number of nodes on main stem (0.713), days to 50 per cent flowering (0.457), plant height (0.256) and pod length (0.200), and showed significant negative association with internodal length (-0.211) and pod diameter (-0.208). These results were parallel to the findings of Kerure et al. (2017); Maurya et al. (2018); Verma and Singh (2020); Komolafe et al. (2021); Ranga et al. (2021); Samiksha et al. (2021); Sravanthi et al. (2021). \r\nThe correlation would not clearly indicate the causes and effects relation between the independent and dependent variables. The path coefficient analysis was used to determine the desirable qualities during selection and to ascertain the nature of association between dependent and independent characters. Path coefficients were calculated at genotypic level for all the quantitative characters to assess the direct and indirect relationship of one character through another on the economic yield. The estimates of genotypic path coefficients of yield and yield attributing traits in late-rabi seasons are presented in the Table 2.\r\nAverage pod weight (1.000) had highest positive direct effect on total yield per plant followed by number of branches per plant (0.453), plant height (0.333) number of nodes on main stem (0.163) and days to 50 per cent flowering (0.089). The characters, pod diameter (-0.221), pod length (-0.090), internodal length (-0.089) and number of pods per plant (-0.013) had negative direct effect on total yield per plant.\r\nIt is obvious to observe that, the number of branches per plant had positive direct effect (0.453) on total yield per plant (rg=0.589). However, its strong positive association was mainly due to its positive indirect effect through average pod weight (0.154), days to 50 per cent flowering (0.045), number of nodes on main stem (0.013), internodal length (0.010) and pod diameter (0.009). The traits, number of pods per plant (-0.010), pod length (-0.026) and plant height (-0.058) had negative indirect effect.\r\nDays to 50 per cent flowering showed positive direct effect (0.089) and had positive association with total yield per plant (rg=0.256). This is mainly because of its indirect positive effect through number of branches per plant (0.230), average pod weight (0.098) and internodal length (0.019), and negative indirect effect through number of pods per plant (-0.006), pod length (-0.006), pod diameter (-0.010), number of nodes on main stem (-0.022) and plant height(-0.137).\r\nPod diameter showed negative direct effect (-0.221) on total yield per plant (rg=0.639). Despite its negative direct effect on total yield per plant, it had positive indirect effect through average pod weight (0.864), plant height (0.036), pod length (0.021), days to 50 per cent flowering (0.004) and number of pods per plant (0.003). The negative indirect effect was observed via internodal length (-0.017), number of branches per plant (-0.017) and number of nodes on main stem (-0.033).\r\nIt is really interesting to note that, the average pod weight showed highest positive direct effect (1.000) on total yield per plant (rg=0.830), which was mainly contributed by positive indirect effect through number of branches per plant (0.070), plant height (0.013), days to 50 per cent flowering (0.009) and number of pods per plant (0.002). The negative indirect of trait via pod length (-0.007), internodal length (-0.013), number of nodes on main stem (-0.051) and pod diameter (-0.191).\r\nNumber of pods per plant exhibited negative direct effect (-0.013), despite its negative direct effect it had strong positive association with total yield per plant (rg=0.504). This is mainly because of its indirect positive effect through number of branches per plant (0.367), number of nodes on main stem (0.116), plant height (0.085), pod diameter (0.046), days to 50 per cent flowering(0.041) and internodal length (0.019), and negative indirect effect through pod length (-0.018) and average pod weight(-0.140).\r\nThe traits viz., average pod weight, number of branches per plant, plant height and number of nodes on main stem showed high and positive direct relationship towards total yield per plant. These characters have significant positive correlation with total yield per plant, suggesting the importance of these traits in yield determination. This also implies that direct selection for all these traits would directly lead to increase in total yield. These results were in accordance with the findings of Pithiya et al. (2017); Gatade et al. (2019); Rathava et al. (2019); Sujata et al. (2019); Ashraf et al. (2020); Ranga et al. (2021); Samiksha et al. (2021) in okra. \r\n','Shwetha A., Basavaraja N., Raghavendra G., Pitchaimuthu M., Mesta R.K., Jagadeesha R.C. and Ganiger V.M. (2022). Character Association Studies in Okra [Abelmoschus esculentus (L.) Moench] for Yield and Yield contributing Traits. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 14(2): 1527-1530.'),(5089,'125','Molecular Docking Reveals 2,4-Di-tert-butylphenol as a Novel Biomolecule of Bacillus atrophaeus Origin for the Management of Phytophthora infestans','R. Janani, A. Sudha*, S. Nakkeeran, K. Mahendra, N. Saranya and S. Haripriya','262 Molecular Docking Reveals 2,4-Di-tert-butylphenol as a Novel Biomolecule of Bacillus atrophaeus Origin for the Management of Phytophthora infestans R. Janani.pdf','',1,'The broad spectrum anti-oomycetes activity of biomolecules produced by bacterial endophyte Bacillus atrophaeus NMB01 were explored in order to combat Phytophthora infestans, the incitant of late blight of potato. Molecular modelling and docking were performed to explore the interaction of 2,4-Di-tert-butylphenol, N-Nitrosopyrrolidine and tetradecanoic acid produced by B. atrophaeus NMB01 against P. infestans with its protein targets autophagy-related protein 8, cytochromec oxidase subunit 1, calmodulin and b ZIP transcription factor 1. The commercially available fungicide mandipropamid was used as a positive control. In silico analysis revealed that 2,4-Di-tert-butylphenol had the highest binding affinity for the target calmodulin (-6.5 kcal/mol) in comparison with the fungicide mandipropamid. We conclude from the present study that biomolecule 2,4-Di-tert-butylphenol can be explored for the anti-oomycete activity.','Phytophthora infestans, Bacillus atrophaeus NMB01, molecular docking, 2,4-Di-tert-butylphenol, anti-oomycete activity','The findings of this study validated the anti-oomycete activity of biomolecules produced by B. atrophaeus NMB01 against P. infestans. Based on the binding energies of the protein-ligand interactions, it was identified that the ligand 2,4-Di-tert-butylphenol acted as potent inhibitors of the target proteins autophagy-related protein 8, cytochrome c oxidase subunit 1, calmodulin and bZIP transcription factor 1 of P. infestans. As a result, 2,4-Di-tert-butylphenol have the potential to be investigated as novel biomolecule for the control of P. infestans. ','INTRODUCTION\r\nPotato is an important vegetable and staple food crop around the world because of its high yield per unit area and itsability to act as a nutrient and mineral reservoir. Unfortunately, its productivity was declined due to its susceptibility towards pest and diseases. The single oomycete P. infestans causing devastating yield losses of up to 100% (Nowicki et al., 2012). In this juncture, several strategies like cultural practices, use of chemical fungicides and biocontrol agents have been deployed to manage late blight disease. Of which, the effectiveness of chemical fungicides was lowered due to its negative impact on the environment and the emergence of resistance in the pathogen (Oyesola et al., 2021). Therefore eco-friendly employment of microorganisms in the biological control of pathogens replaces chemical fungicides and serves as a separate line of defense (Shailbala and Kumar 2017). Bacterial endophytes of the genus Bacillus are known to produce antimicrobial biomolecules that are the potent inhibitors of phytopathogens. The bacterial antagonist B. atrophaeus had inhibitory activity against various phytopathogens through their secondary metabolites (Huang et al., 2015; Mu et al., 2020). The in vitro and in vivo screening of putative bioactive chemicals is extremely challenging and time-consuming. Consequently, molecular modelling and docking might simplify the identification of potent anti-oomycete biomolecules and it will aid in characterization of protein target sequencesof P. infestans involved in pathogenicity. In this regard molecular docking of biomolecules 2,4-Di-tert-butylphenol,N-Nitrosopyrrolidine and tetradecanoic acid produced by B. atrophaeusNMB01 against four protein targets of P. infestans were done to discover the biomolecule with anti-oomycete action.\r\nMATERIALS AND METHODS\r\nMolecular modelling and structure validation of target proteins of P. infestans. The protein targets which are highly essential for the growth, development, survival and pathogenesis of P. infestans were choosen based on literature search. The protein sequences of target proteins were acquired from the Uniprot database. FASTA sequence of the target proteins were subjected to BLAST to compare the protein query percentage in the protein database. Molecular modelling was performed using SWISS-MODEL (Method: Rigid-body assembly) and ROBETTA (Meta server, https://robetta.bakerlab.org/) in accordance with query coverage performance and percentage identity obtained from Blastp.\r\nIn order to assure that the modeled protein targets have a high level of quality, the Ramachandran plot of the PROCHECK tool on the Structural Analysis and Verification Server (SAVES, Meta server) (https://saves.mbi.ucla.edu/) was used to validate the models of the protein targets. This plot displays which residues are located in regions that are preferred or allowed. The Swiss PDB Viewer (http://www.expasy.org/spdbv/) was utilized for the purpose of energy minimization in modeled proteins as well as loop creation for residues lying in disallowed regions.\r\nLigand preparation. The two dimensional structure of three ligands 2,4-Di-tert-butylphenol, N-Nitrosopyrrolidine and tetradecanoic acid produced by B. atrophaeus NMB01 and the reference ligand molecule mandipropamid as a positive control were retrieved from PubChem database (https://pubchem.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/) as SDF format. Through Open Babel software, 2D structure was converted to 3D structure in PDB format.\r\nMolecular docking. Molecular docking was carried out using the Auto Dock Vina module in PyRx 0.8 (Dallakyan and Olson 2015). Targets were turned into protein macromolecules using PyRx. A 200-step first-order derivative optimization approach using commercial molecular mechanics parametersthe Unified Force Field were used to minimize all ligand structures in order to free up troublesome angles (UFF). The targets binding site pockets were located using the CASTp 3.0 server from the Computed Atlas Topography of Proteins (Tian et al., 2018). When a rigid receptor was used, ligands could yield flexible conformations and orientations with an exhaustiveness value of 8.\r\nDocked complex visualization. The BIOVIA Discovery studio client 2021 was updated with the docked conformations of protein-ligand interactions. Observed interactions are registered and then exported as pictures for further analysis. The H-bond surface receptor was utilized so that the ligand binding site could be highlighted more clearly. In order to differentiate between the receptor, the ligand, and the interacting atoms, each one was given a distinct colour.\r\nRESULTS AND DISCUSSION\r\nHomology and Ab initio modelling. The 3D structure of the target proteins autophagy-related protein 8 and cytochrome c oxidase subunit 1 were modelled using SWISS model server, which had 77.39% and 65.97% sequence identity between template and modelled structure, respectively (Fig. 1). Similarly, for calmodulin and bZIP transcription factor 1, crystal structure was modelled with ROBETTA programme with 65% and 50% confidence score, respectively (Fig. 1).\r\nStructure validation. Structural validation of modelled 3D structure of the targetsautophagy-related protein 8, cytochrome c oxidase subunit 1, calmodulin and bZIP transcription factor 1 through Ramachandran plot had 96%, 93.3%, 91% and 84% of amino acid residues in the most favoured region, respectively.\r\nVirtual screening and molecular docking. Insilico docking studies between four target proteins of P. infestans (autophagy-related protein 8, cytochrome c oxidase subunit 1, calmodulin and bZIP transcription factor 1) and three ligand molecules (2,4-Di-tert-butylphenol, N-Nitrosopyrrolidine and tetradecanoic acid) revealed that 2,4-Di-tert-butylphenol had the highest docking score of -6.5 kcal/mol which was shown in the heat map (Fig. 2). The binding of 2,4-Di-tert-butylphenol with four target proteins were compared with reference ligand molecule mandipropamid (Fig. 3). The maximum binding energy of 2,4-Di-tert-butylphenol (-6.5 kcal/mol) with the target protein calmodulin could inhibit the communication between plant-microbe interaction and reduce the mRNA levels in the pathogen (Pieterse et al., 1993). Similarly, binding of 2,4-Di-tert-butylphenol with cytochrome c oxidase subunit 1(-6.2 kcal/mol) could impede the supply of ATP essential for pathogenicity by disrupting the electron transport process (Pan et al., 2018). Binding of2,4-Di-tert-butylphenol with bZIP transcription factor 1 and autophagy-related protein 8 could block the appressoria formation by inhibiting the zoospore motility (Blanco et al., 2005) and virulence of P. infestans (Chen et al., 2017). In the previous study, in silico analysis was done to reveal the anti-oomycete nature of 1H-1,2,4-Triazole, 1-octadecanoyl produced during ditrophic interaction of B. subtilis NM261 and P. infestans. Interacting amino acids showing H-bonding, hydrophobic interactions, Van der Waals force, Pi-Alkyl and carbon hydrogen bonds between ligands and target proteins were depicted in Table 1. As the ligand binds to four separate target proteins, resistance in the pathogen is unlikely to emerge because of the various modes of action. Thus, docking results confirmed that 2,4-Di-tert-butylphenolcan be used to manage P. infestans.\r\n','R. Janani, A. Sudha, S. Nakkeeran, K. Mahendra, N. Saranya and S. Haripriya (2022). Molecular Docking Reveals 2,4-Di-tert-butylphenol as a Novel Biomolecule of Bacillus atrophaeus Origin for the Management of Phytophthora infestans. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 14(2): 1531-1535.'),(5090,'125','Is Doubling Farmers Income an Achievable by 2022-23 ? Empirical Evidence from Recent Trends','B. Vijay Kumar*, Aldas Janaiah, K. Suhasini, Seema and A. Meena','263 Is Doubling Farmers Income an Achievable by 2022-23 Empirical Evidence from Recent Trends B. Vijay Kumar.pdf','',1,'In view of farmers distress, the government of India in 2015-16 has set a goal to double the farmers income by 2022-23. The aim of the goal is to promote farmer welfare and to bring parity between income of farmers and non-farm workers. The challenge of the study was to estimate empirical evidence to assess the possibility of doubling the farmers income in Indian context.\r\nThis paper examined the current trends in overall GDP and agricultural GDP at both current and constant prices over the past three decades and also analyzed incremental increase for the period under consideration (1993-94 to 2019-20). The agricultural GDP was considered as a composite indicator to reflect the level of farmers income as other sources of farm income such as nonfarm income is not systematically available. The study primarily assessed the growth trends in overall GDP and agricultural GDP and brough out the possibilities of doubling the farmers income in the seven years of period (2015-16 to 2022-23) as targeted by the government of India. The results showed that the registered growth of less than 4 per cent in agricultural GDP is not adequate to double the farmers income and it seems to be a remote possibility.\r\n','Agricultural GDP, Incremental increase, Income, Growth','The average compound growth rate of agricultural GDP (1993-94 constant prices) was highest during the period 2004-05 to 2013-14compared to the other time periods in the three decades. The special focus in terms of substantial public and private investment in agriculture and increased flow of institutional credit contributed to the impressive growth during this period. Despite the highest growth rate in this decade, the percentage increase in agricultural GDP (at constant prices) in seven years of period of the decade i.e., from 2007-08 to 2013-14 was 33.61 per cent only. In the recent past seven years (2014 -15 to 2019-20) the agricultural GDP at constant prices has grown only by 27 per cent which is far below than doubling the farmers income by 2022-23. Further it is observed that it took 17 years to double agricultural GDP between 2003-04 to 2019-20. Therefore, the registered growth of less than 4 percent in agricultural GDP is inadequate to double the farmers income in any seven years period. Under these situationsthe possibility of doubling farmers income by 2022-23 seems to be highly unlikely.The growth rate registered in the Indian context is very much less than what is required to double the farmers income and it is far away from the reality.','INTRODUCTION\r\nAgriculture supports the basic livelihood of 495 million citizens and 100.7 million households in India directly (NABARD, 2017). Though the green revolution success made India surplus in food production at aggregate level and net exporter of food grains, it also made the agriculture high input intensive. The economic impact of raise in input prices and uneconomic holdings led to stagnation in income levels of farmers and made the farming non-profitable. The past strategies of governments were also focused on rising output and improving food security. The agrarian distress caused in 1990’s turned quite serious in some years and witnessed a sharp increase in the number of farmer suicides during 1995 to 2004. This period also coincided with the sharp decline in growth rate of agricultural output (Chand and Parappurathu 2012). \r\nDuring early 1980s, farm income per cultivator was just 34 per cent of income of a non-farm worker. After economic reform in India, in 1993-94 relative income of the farmers worsened and reached one-fourth of income of non-agricultural worker (Chand, 2017). There was improvement during 2004-05 to 2011-12, but no change over the 1983-84 level. Again from 2012-13 to 2015-16 witnessed deterioration in relative income of farmers. The NSSO 68th round data on consumption expenditure survey for the year 2011-12 revealed that more than one fifth of rural households with self -employment in agriculture as their principal occupation were having income less than the poverty line. Unless farmers’ income increases substantially, distress cannot be tackled.\r\nIn view of the above context the government of India has set a goal in 2015-16 to double the farmers income by 2022-23. The goal aimed at promoting farmers welfare, reduce agrarian distress and to bring parity between income of farmers and those working in non-agricultural professions. The goal of doubling farmers income has been viewed as impossible and unrealistic by some experts as it requires growth rate of 14.86 per cent per year for five years which had not even achieved once in the history of Indian agriculture (Gulati and Saini 2016). Similarly, it requires 10.4 per cent of average compound growth rate in agricultural sector to double farmer income in seven years i.e., from 2015-16 to 2022-23. As presented in table1 the average growth in either agricultural or overall GDP (at constant prices) has never been touched double digit in any decade after 1990s. In particular agricultural GDP has not even been registered more than 5 per cent growth during any decade after 1990’s.\r\nThe composition of farmers income comprises of income accrued from various sources (a. crop income, b. income from livestock, fisheries and diary, c. income from agricultural wages and d. income from non-farm activities). There are hardly any data sources that can give time series estimates of income of farmers from all these sources. Sen and Bhatia (2004) estimated farmers income using the cost of cultivation data which reflects only crop income. At aggregate level time series data on gross value added of crops, livestock’s, fisheries, dairy and farm forestry is available in the farm of agricultural GDP. Therefore, agricultural GDP at national level may be considered as a composite indicator to represent the average farmers income in India. However, the GDP from agriculture is only one possible source though it is not comprehensive (Sathyasai and Bharti, 2016). Therefore, the current study used agricultural GDP as a composite indicator to understand the trends in farmers income. \r\nThe principal objective of this study is to estimate empirical evidence to assess the possibility of doubling the farmers income in any seven years in Indian context.\r\nMATERIALS AND METHODS\r\nData pertaining to overall GDP and agricultural GDP has been collected both at current and constant prices from 1993-94 to 2019-20. Constant prices data is available in different base year periods (1993-94, 1999-00, 2004-05 and 2011-12) which makes the comparison among the different time period difficult. Therefore, the constant prices data has been converted into a single base year series of 1993-94 using splicing technique.\r\nA. Splicing technique\r\nThe splicing techniques was used for conversion of different base year data into single base year. The procedure of splicing technique is as follows\r\nIf we have two time series data with overlapping observation, one with base year X and other with Y, then to change the base year of X to Y \r\nValue Yt+1 = Value Xt+1 *[(Value of Yt)/(Value of Xt)]\r\nWhere Yt+1= Estimated value of base year Y for the time period t+1\r\nXt+1= Value of the base year X of the time period t+1\r\nYt = Value of the time series with base year Y of time period t \r\nXt = Value of the time series with base year X of time period t\r\nIn other words, value of new series equals the old series multiplied by the ratio of series.\r\nB. Estimation of sources of incremental increases\r\nIncremental increases in the selected indicators (agricultural GDP, GDP) between two points of period was estimated and sources of these incremental increase were also worked out by sub-periods (1993-94 to 2000-01, 2000-01 to 2007-08, 2007-08 to 2014-15 and 2014-15 to 2019-20).\r\nThe following formula has been used to estimate the share of sub-periods in the total incremental increase in the selected indicator between base year (1993-94) and terminal year (2019-20).\r\n PIi = YiT – Yit\r\n PIi = P1YiT - P1Yit, P2 YiT – P2Yit, …………., Pn YiT – PnYit\r\n Therefore, share of PnIi = (PnYiT-Pnit)/PYi\r\nWhere,\r\nPIi =Incremental increase in ith indicator/variable between base year and terminal year during the period P (1993-94 to 2019-20)\r\nYiT = Quantity of ith indicator/variable during the terminal year (2019-20)\r\nYit = Quantity of ith indicator/variable during base year (1993-94)\r\nP1YiT = Quantity of ith variable/indicator during terminal year of the period 1\r\nP1Yit = Quantity of ith variable/indicator during base year of the period 1\r\nP2YiT = Quantity of ith variable/indicator during terminal year of the period 2\r\nP2Yit = Quantity of ith variable/indicator during base year of the period 2\r\nPnYiT = Quantity of ith variable/indicator during terminal year of the period n\r\nPnYit = Quantity of ith variable/indicator during base year of the period n\r\nRESULTS AND DISCUSSION\r\nThe trends in overall GDP and agricultural GDP both at current and constant prices and the contribution of different time periods to incremental increase were analysed for the period under study (1993-94 to 2019-20) and same were reported.\r\nTable 1 presents decade wise compound growth rate of overall and agricultural GDP at 1993-94 constant prices. It is clear from the table 1 that the decade of 2004-05 to 2013-14 was found to be the best period with highest average compound growth rate of 9.31 per cent per year in overall GDP. The recent past of 6 years i.e., from 2014-15 to 2019-20 (pre corona period) has also witnessed significant compound growth rate in overall GDP at about 7.24 per cent per year. It is not out of the context to mention that the Central Statistical Office (CSO) has modified GDP estimation procedure during 2015-16 and the new series of GDP estimates were published. It has been noticed that under the modified GDP estimation method informal sector output estimation witnessed significant changes which was not the case until 2014-15 (Nagaraj and Srinivasan 2016). As a result of it, new series of GDP estimates from 2015-16 are over estimated by 3.5-5.5 per cent which were heavily criticised by several economist like Nagaraj (2016); Subrahmanyam (2019). Therefore, the compound growth rate of GDP shown in the table 1 for the period 2014-15 to 2019-20 are based on the official GDP estimates using modified estimation method which were not really comparable with GDP growth rate of previous two decades (1993-94 to 2013-14). If had the previous GDP estimation procedure was followed for the period 2014-15 to 2019-20,the compound growth rates of overall GDP in last six years would have been much lower than what is reported in Table 1.\r\nThe average compound growth rate of agricultural GDP which is considered as acomposite indicator of farmers income was highest during the period 2004-05 to 2013-14 (4.8 % per year). The special focus given to agricultural sector soon after new government came into power during 2004 in terms of increased investment in agricultural infrastructure through Rastriya Krishi Vikas Yojana (RKVY), initiation of National Agricultural Policy (NAP) with an objective of achieving a high and sustainable growth in farming by implementing various policies related to agricultural development and also increased flow of institutional credit to the farmers contributed immensely to agricultural growth during this decade. Similarly, agricultural GDP at constant prices has grown at least 3.7 per cent per year during 2014-15 to 2019-20. However, this growth rate is highly inadequate to double the farmers income by 2022-23, as targeted by the government of India in 2015-16. Any number that is to be doubled in any 7 years period should increase at compound growth rate of 10.5 per cent per year (Chand, 2017) but the actual registered average growth rate in the first five years (2015-16 to 2019-20) was less than 4 per cent per year. Under these circumstances the achievement of doubling farmers income by 2022-23 seems to be far away from the reality.\r\nFurther the percentage increase in overall GDP and agricultural GDP at current and constant prices (1993-94) between every seven years during the period 1993-94 to 2020-21were examined to understand the level of increase in GDP in the previous time periods (Table 2 and 3). Accordingly, the changes (%) in overall GDP and agricultural GDP for four periods of seven years each (1993-94 to 1999-2000, 2000-01to 2006-07, 2007-08 to 2013-14 and 2020-21) were computed to understand how GDP and agricultural GDP grown in each seven years over the past three decades. In the first seven years period (1993-94 to 1999-2000), the agricultural GDP has increased by only 19.31 per cent at constant prices although it was 84.30 per cent at current prices. The highest percentage increase was achieved during 2007-08 to 2013-14 (33.61%) among four time periods of seven years each in three decades of period under the study. In the same period agricultural GDP at current prices was more than doubles due to significant growth during this period because of special emphasis given to agricultural sector.\r\nThe percentage increase in agricultural GDP at constant prices in the recent past seven years (2014-15 to 2020-21) was only 27.01 per cent as against the targeted 100 per cent. During the same period at current prices agricultural GDP has not been doubled. Similar trend has been observed in overall GDP growth. The long-term trends in agricultural GDP (Fig. 1) clearly shows that at current prices GDP has been doubled during 2007-08 to 2013-14. Further it may be noted from Fig. 1 that agricultural GDP at constant prices during the year 2019-20 was about Rs. 6.23 lakh crores, rose from 3.12 lakh crores in 2003-04. This imply that it took about 17 years to double the agricultural GDP at constant prices by 2019-20. Thus, the long-term trend in agricultural GDP clearly points out that it can’t be doubled in real terms during any seven years of period. The incremental increase in agricultural GDP at constant prices between 1993-94 to 2019-20 was 3.85 lakh crores. Out of this incremental increase the maximum share was contributed by the best performed period of 2007-08 to 2014-15 followed by the recent period (Fig. 2).\r\nAs the agricultural GDP in this study considered as an indicator of farmers income, the other sources of aggregate farmers income other than gross value added (GDP) such as income from non-farm sources were not considered in this study. Therefore, the trends in the agricultural GDP does not reflect the actual trend of farmers income. However gross value added in agriculture (crops, livestock, diary and fisheries etc.) constitutes major share of farmers income. It is also reported that the non-farm income sources were also not sizable in rural India (Vatta and Budhiraja, 2020). Under these trends it may be concluded that farmers income in the recent past seven years have not been doubled but grown only by less than 30 per cent. \r\n \r\n','B. Vijay Kumar, Aldas Janaiah, K. Suhasini, Seema and A. Meena (2022). Is Doubling Farmers Income an Achievable by 2022-23 ? Empirical Evidence from Recent Trends. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 14(2): 1536-1540.'),(5091,'125','Growth and Yield Attributes of Rice as Influenced by Systems of Cultivation in different Varieties','N. Maniraj*, P. Revathi, K.B. Suneetha Devi and K. Chandra Shaker','264 Growth and Yield Attributes of Rice as Influenced by Systems of Cultivation in different Varieties N. Maniraj.pdf','',1,'With increasing cost of labour and water shortage the farmers are forced to look substitute present existing system of cultivation from transplanting to dry and wet direct seeded rice. Keeping in view a field experiment was conducted during kharif season, 2021-22 at Regional Agricultural Station, Jagtial to evaluate the varieties suitable under different systems of cultivation. The experiment was laid out in strip plot design with three main plots (systems of cultivation) viz., transplanted rice (S1), dry Direct seeded rice (dry DSR) (S2) and wet direct seeded rice (wet DSR) (S3) and four sub-plots (varieties) viz., BPT-5204 (V1), JGL-11470 (V2), JGL-24423 (V3) and RNR-15048 (V4). The experimental results revealed that transplanted rice recorded significantly higher dry matter production (10170 kg ha-1) and yield attributes i.e., effective tillers m-2 (230), spikelets per panicle (211), test weight (15.5). Among the varieties JGL-24423 (V3) recorded significantly higher yield attributes and grain yield (4716 kg ha-1) was at par with RNR-15048 (V4). Interaction effect revealed that significantly higher grain yield obtained in transplanted system of cultivation with variety JGL-24423 (S1V3) than other treatment combinations.','Systems of cultivation, growth and yield attributes','In this study, higher rice yield was obtained from transplanted rice. The yield mainly depends on dry matter production and number of productive tillers. The yield of rice varieties is mostly influenced by individual genetic character and environment conditions. The variety JGL-24423 resulted higher yield, this is mainly due to higher dry matter production and test weight among all the varieties.','INTRODUCTION \r\nRice is one of the most important food crops and it feeds more than half of the world’s population and provide 20% of daily calories (Carrijo et al., 2017). The global area under rice is 165.2million hectares with a production of 509.3 million tonnes with productivity of 4600 kg ha-1. In India, it is grown in about 45.8 m ha with a production of 124 million tonnes and productivity of 2717 kg ha-1, whereas in Telangana State, it is grown in 3.2m ha with the production of 10.22 million tonnes and productivity of 3206 kg ha-1 (www.indiastat.com 2020-21). To safe guard and sustain the food security in India, it is important to increase the production productivity of rice under limited water resources. It is estimated that India needs to increase the production up to 37 per cent by 2050. \r\nAbout 77 percent of the world’s rice production is done by traditional transplanting method in puddled condition (Chakraborty et al., 2017). Traditional transplanting system of rice cultivation requires labour, water and energy in greater amounts, due to this it has become less profitable. Now-a-days a shortage of labour during peak periods, increased labour wages and made the transplanting operation costly (Mahajan et al., 2009). In addition the event of delayed release of water from the canal invariably delay the puddling and sowing of rice. This situation is forcing the farmers to deviate from normal date of sowing to delayed sowing. The late planted crop has low productivity per plant due to restricted vegetative growth. Hence, in order to reap maximum returns, the cost of cultivation has to be reduced through minimizing the dependence on labour for some of the operations like transplanting and with less dependence on water at initial stages. To overcome all these problems, direct seeding of rice has been found most appropriate alternative to transplanting. In water scarce areas, the farmers may prefer for direct seeding method as an alternative to traditional method of transplanting.\r\nDirect-seeded rice occupies 26 per cent of the total rice production area in South-Asia. In direct seeded rice, maintenance of nursery area and transplanting are not needed and the crop under this system attains maturity 7-12 days in advance than transplanted rice (Gill, 2008) thus it decreases the overall water requirement of rice cultivation and it also saves the time, input supplements, labour and energy consumption. Proper management of direct seeded rice can produce higher yields than that of conventional transplanted rice cultivation (Ali et al., 2007).\r\nDirect seeded rice (DSR) both wet and dry systems of cultivations can increase the water productivity and reduce the labour and energy of rice cultivation. Dry DSR sown with tractor drawn seed drill in unpuddled soil and wet DSR sown with drum seeder in puddled soil condition results in good crop establishment and better emergence of the seedings in pertaining to Northern Telangana Zone.\r\nMATERIALS AND METHODS\r\nThe present investigation was conducted in kharif 2021-22, at Regional Research Agricultural Station, Jagtial under Professor Jayashankar Telangana State Agricultural University, Hyderabad, Telangana. The farm geographically situated at an altitude of 234.4 m above mean sea level (MSL) on18º4940N latitude and 78º5645E longitude in the Northern Agro-Climatic Zone of Telangana State. The experimental soil was clay loam texture. The experiment was laid out with three systems of rice cultivation [transplanted rice (S1), dry direct seeded rice (S2) and wet direct seeded rice (S3)] as main plots and four varieties [BPT-5204 (V1), JGL-11470 (V2), JGL-24423 (V3) and RNR-15048 (V4)]as sub-plots with three replications in strip plot design.\r\nThe pre germinated seeds were sown in nursery for transplanted rice system at seed rate of 62 kg ha-1, dry DSR system seeds were directly sown with tractor drawn at seed drill seed rate of 23 kg ha-1 and in wet DSR system seeds were sown with drum seeder at seed rate of 28 kg ha-1. For control of weeds, pretilachlor @ 1200 ml in 45 kg of sand was applied, while 2,4-D salt is applied as post-emergence application. Nitrogen is applied in the form of urea with a fertilizer dose of (120 kg ha-1 for transplanted and wet DSR and 150 kg ha-1 for dry DSR) was applied in three equal splits viz., at the time of sowing or transplanting, maximum tillering stage and panicle initiation stage. Phosphorus is applied as the basal dose in the form of SSP (single super phosphate) with a dose of 50 kg ha-1 (for transplanted and wet DSR) and 60 kg ha-1 (dry DSR). Potassium is applied in the form of MoP (Muriate of Potash) with a dose of 40 kg ha-1 is applied in two equal splits viz., at the time of sowing or transplanting and panicle initiation stage. The plant height (cm), dry matter production (kg ha-1), effective tillers m-2, test weight (g), grain and straw yield (kg ha-1) were measured at harvest and the data was statistically analyzed by applying the technique of analysis of variance for strip plot design and was tested by F-test using Gomez and Gomez (1984). Critical difference for treatmental significant means was examined at 5 percent level of probability. \r\nRESULTS AND DISCUSSION\r\nA. Growth parameters\r\nThe data relevant to plant height and dry matter production at harvest of rice under different systems of cultivation and varieties were recorded and presented in Table 1. The plant height is significantly higher in wet DSR (S3) which is at par with the transplanted rice (S1) and higher dry matter production was observed under transplanted rice (S1) which is at par with wet DSR (S3). Plant height is one of most important morphological character and is function of combined effect of genetic character, soil and nutrient availability and environmental conditions of area which it is grown. The dry matter accumulation is a function of number of leaves and tillers, plant height and panicle weight, translocation and conversion of food material for growing parts and wetness with continuous water supply to crop that maintained good rooting condition and metabolic process that perform timely nutrient mobilization. The lower plant height and dry matter accumulation was recorded under dry DSR (S2). Increase in plant height and dry matter accumulation is slow during the initial growth stages of dry DSR (S2) and it linearly increased till the maturity. Similar results were found in Choudhary et al. (2021); Mali et al. (2018); Gangwar et al. (2009).\r\nAmong the varieties significant higher plant height recorded from RNR-15048 (V4) followed by JGL 24423 (V3) and BPT-5204 (V1). This may be due to the inherent genetic character of the variety and the environment in which the plant is grown. However, the lowest was recorded from JGL-11470 (V2). While the dry matter accumulation was significantly higher in JGL-24423 (V3) which is at par with BPT-5204 (V1). These may be due to the variation in duration of crop growth period between the varieties, more plant population per unit and higher panicle weight.\r\nThe interaction effect of different systems of cultivation and varieties was found to be not significant regarding plant height and dry matter production.\r\nB. Yield parameters\r\nHighest number of effective tillers was recorded under transplanted rice (S1) which is on par with wet DSR (S3) (Table 1). Tillering plays a very important role in determining grain yield as it represents the number of panicles in a unit area the higher number of tillers under transplanted rice may be due to favourable edaphic conditions for plant to grow than under wet and dry conditions, also may be due to more availability and utilization of nutrients in transplanted rice at panicle development stage. The lowest number of effective tillers were recorded under dry DSR. The similar results were also reported in findings of Javid et al. (2012); Meena et al. (2016). The test weight of 1000-grains data revealed that there was no significant difference among the different systems of cultivation of rice. These results were in accordance with Prathiksha et al. (2017); Mali et al. (2018).\r\nAmong the varieties significantly highest number of effective tillers m-2 were recorded from BPT-5204 (V1) over the JGL-24423 (V3) and RNR-15048 (V4). Test weight among the varieties recorded to be significantly highest by Jgl-24423 (V3) over the BPT-5204 (V1) and RNR-15048 (V4). The lowest number of effective tillers and test weight was recorded from JGL-11047 (V2).\r\n \r\nInteraction between the systems of cultivation and varieties on number of effective tillers m-2 were found to be significant (Table 2). Highest number of effective tillers m-2 was recorded in BPT-5204 (S1V1) and was at par with S1V2, S1V3, S2V1 and S3V3. Higher of tillers may be due to the varietal character and adequate availability of photosynthates under transplanted \r\nsystem of cultivation, produce higher dry matter, good maintenance of source-sink relationship due to longer reproductive phase. While the lowest number of effective tillers recorded by S2V3 across three different systems of rice, this may be due to lower source-sink relation under dry direct seeding condition. This is supported by Singh et al. (2015); Raj et al. (2017).\r\nC. Grain and straw yield (kg ha-1)\r\nAmong the different systems of cultivation transplanted rice has significantly recorded the highest gain and straw yield over the dry DSR and it is statistically on par with the wet DSR (Table 1). The transplanted rice registered an increase of 14.8 and 6 per cent in grain yield over dry DSR and wet DSR systems of cultivation, respectively. This can be attributed in facilitating the proper planting which resulted in optimum plant population, providing good rooting and better nutrient uptake of plant, reduced pest and disease \r\nincident and low weed infestation over wet DSR and dry DSR systems. These results was supported Mai et al. (2021); Mankotia et al. (2009); Javaid et al. (2012); Raj et al. (2012); Singh et al. (2013); Shan et al. (2012).\r\nThe data revealed that JGL-24423 (V3) recorded highest grain yield of all the varieties and it remained statistically at par with RNR-15048 (V4). The grain yield was greatly influenced by varietal genetic makeup and the many characters i.e., number of effective tillers, panicle weight and test weight. While straw yield of variety JGL-24423 (V3) significantly recorded higher straw yield over the RNR-15048 (V4) and JGL-11470 (V2). Dry matter production mainly determines the straw yield of a variety, also micro environment of crop and photosynthetic and metabolic activity of a plant also effect on straw yield. While the lowest grain yield and straw yield was recorded by BPT-5204.\r\nIt was observed there is significant interaction effect (Table 3) of systems of cultivation and varieties this might be due to the different growing conditions among the systems of cultivations and the varieties are different among their varietal characters and the highest yield recorded from transplanted system of cultivation with JGL-24423 (S1V3) which was at par with S1V1, S1V2, S1V4, S3V3 and S3V4. The difference in the grain yield among the varieties greatly influenced by the inherent genetic characters, another due to edaphic factors in which it grown and the micro environment conditions of the different systems also shows variable effect on the different varieties. However, the lowest grain yield and straw yield was recorded by BPT-5204 (S2V1), this might be due to lower productive tillers and low spikelets per panicle.\r\n','N. Maniraj, P. Revathi, K.B. Suneetha Devi, K. Chandra Shaker (2022). Growth and Yield Attributes of Rice as Influenced by Systems of Cultivation in different Varieties. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 14(2): 1541-1545.'),(5092,'114','Effect of Super Absorbent Polymers on Grain Yield and Soil Microbial Counts in Mustard under Limited Irrigation','Shashank Tyagi*, Mahendra Singh and Nintu Mandal','7 Effect of Super Absorbent Polymers on Grain Yield and Soil Microbial Counts in Mustard under Limited Irrigation Shashank Tyagi.pdf','',1,'A field experiment was conducted in rabi season 2019-20 and 2020-21 at Research farm of Bihar Agricultural College, Sabour with the aim to assess the effect of super absorbent polymers and irrigation on grain yield of mustard and soil microbial counts. The experiment comprised of 3 irrigation levels (control, one irrigation at pre flowering stage and two irrigations at pre flowering and siliqua formation stage) put in main plot whereas 10 super absorbent polymers (P1- Control, P2- Magic hydrogel 5.0 kg acre-1, P3- Alsta hydrogel 6.0 kg acre-1, P4- Vedic hydrogel 3.0 kg acre-1, P5- Eco sarovar hydrogel 3.0 kg acre-1, P6- Stockosorb hydrogel 8.0 kg acre-1, P7- Vaaridhar hydrogel 1.0 kg acre-1, P8- Nano hydrogel 8.0 kg acre-1, P9- Solid rain hydrogel 6.0 kg acre-1 and P10- Zeba hydrogel 5.0 kg acre-1) were put in sub plots, laid out in split plot design. Results revealed that solid rain hydrogel 6.0 kg acre-1 with two irrigations recorded highest grain yield (17.53 and 17.62 q ha-1) of mustard in 2020 and 2021, respectively being at par with stockosorb hydrogel 8.0 kg acre-1 and nano hydrogel 8.0 kg acre-1 at same irrigation level. So far as microbial count was concerned, their population was enhanced with increasing irrigation levels in 2020; however, in 2021, their population was enhanced with increasing irrigation levels upto one irrigation, thereafter declined. Among superabsorbent polymers, fungi, bacteria and actinomycetes counts were maximum under stockosorb hydrogel 8.0 kg acre-1, nano hydrogel 8.0 kg acre-1 and solid rain hydrogel 6.0 kg acre-1, respectively in 2020; whereas in 2021, their respective count was maximum under nano hydrogel 8.0 kg acre-1, solid rain hydrogel 6.0 kg acre-1 and stockosorb hydrogel 8.0 kg acre-1, respectively. In 2021, interaction effect of superabsorbent polymers and irrigation on soil microbial counts revealed that fungi, bacteria and actinomycetes count were significantly maximum under alsta hydrogel 6.0 kg acre-1, solid rain hydrogel 6.0 kg acre-1 and solid rain hydrogel 6.0 kg acre-1 with two irrigations. ','Irrigation, Microbial counts, Super absorbent polymer, Wheat, Yield','Thus it might be concluded that application of solid rain hydrogel @ 6.0 kg acre-1 along with two irrigations recorded highest grain yield of mustard being at par with stockosorb hydrogel @ 8.0 kg acre-1 and nano hydrogel @ 8.0 kg acre-1 at same irrigation level. There was no adverse impact of super absorbent polymers and irrigation on soil micro-biological properties resulting into improved attributes. ','I. INTRODUCTION\r\nIndian mustard (Brassica juncea L.) is major winter oilseed crop of India. During 2018-19 in India, rapeseed and mustard recorded the highest production 9.3 m tonne from 6.1 m ha acreage with highest productivity 1511 kg ha-1. It contributes more than 33% of vegetable oil production and plays crucial role to meet edible oil demand. Irrigation will play vital role in increasing the crop yield under changing climate [15]. Insufficient soil moisture either due to less or no rains during growth period and owing to frequent moisture stress during vegetative as well as reproductive phase, thereby resulting drastic reduction in yield of mustard [6]. \r\nMustard is grown either under rainfed or limited irrigation. The crop recurrently faces drought during critical crop growth period [17]. This leads to poor seed yield. Use of chemicals for in-situ conservation and efficient utilization of available soil moisture in root zone will help in increasing crop productivity under limited water supply [4]. Super absorbent polymers are promising option to exploit existing water use in soil for field crops [22]. Hydrogel is semi-synthetic, cross linked super absorbent polymer [9]. It absorbs 350 times of its dry weight in pure water and gradually releases it. Use of hydrogel could be helpful in conserving soil moisture and improving productivity significantly [4]. \r\nSuper absorbent polymers (SAPs) are not only used for water saving in irrigation, but they also have tremendous potential to improve biological properties of the soil [12]. The higher water storage capacity, irrigation water productivity and yield were recorded with SAPs [12]. Hydrogel @ 5.0 kg ha-1 improved the mustard yield [11]. In drought stress, application of super absorbent affects the seed yield [14]. Under adequate irrigation facilities, hydrogel could prove beneficial as the number of irrigations could be cut down. \r\nApplication of hydrogel remained significantly superior over no application [20]. Significant increase in seed yield of mustard with application of hydrogel over control [16]. The activity of microorganisms (e.g., by microbe-mediated increase in nutrient availability in soil) will increase by using super absorbent polymers [5]. Therefore, keeping these facts in view, the present study was executed with the objectives to assess the efficacy of hydrogels and irrigation on productivity of mustard and their impact on soil micro-biological properties. \r\nII. MATERIALS AND METHODS \r\nA field experiment was carried out in rabi season of 2019-20 and 2020-21 at Research Farm of Bihar Agricultural College, Sabour, Bhagalpur situated at latitude 25°15\' 40” N and longitude 87°2\' 42” E with an altitude of 37.46 meters above mean sea level with the aim to assess the effect of super absorbent polymers and irrigation on grain yield and soil microbial counts in mustard. The soil of experiment was sandy loam in texture, having a pH 7.27, low organic carbon 0.44 %, available low N 120.53 kg ha-1, available medium P 25.43 kg ha-1 and K 151.29 kg ha-1. The experiment was laid out in split plot design with three irrigation levels viz., one irrigation, two irrigations and three irrigations in main plot and ten super absorbent polymers viz., P1- Control, P2- Magic hydrogel @ 5.0 kg acre-1, P3- Alsta hydrogel @ 6.0 kg acre-1, P4- Vedic hydrogel @ 3.0 kg acre-1, P5- Eco sarovar hydrogel @ 3.0 kg acre-1, P6- Stockosorb 660 hydrogel @ 8.0 kg acre-1, P7- Vaaridhar G1 hydrogel @ 1.0 kg acre-1, P8- Nano hydrogel @ 8.0 kg acre-1, P9- Solid rain hydrogel @ 6.0 kg acre-1 and P10- Zeba hydrogel @ 5.0 kg acre-1 in subplots, replicated thrice. \r\nTo carry out the experiment, the land preparation operations viz., pre sowing irrigation, ploughing and levelling were done. Mustard variety, Pusa bold was sown with recommended seed rate of 5 kg ha-1 on 15th November, 2019 during first year and on 17th November, 2020 during second year. The recommended dose of nitrogen, phosphorus and potash was 80-60-60 kg ha-1, respectively, which was applied through urea, single superphosphate and muriate of potash. The basal fertilizers in all the treatments including all the P and K fertilizers and 1/2 N fertilizer were applied, remaining half dose of N fertilizer was top-dressed. Hydrogel at different doses, well mixed with sufficient quantity of soil was applied to allotted experimental plots in furrows just before sowing of crop. While, hydrogel applied at the time of sowing of the crop. Other management practices including weeding and hoeing were adopted as per package and practices of the crop. \r\nYield parameters were recorded at the time of harvest. Five plants were selected randomly from each treatment to record the observations of yield. The crop was harvested on 09th March, 2020 and 11th March, 2021 during first and second year, respectively. Soil microbial counts i.e., fungi, bacteria and actinomycetes was done by using standard procedures. The data were analysed using analysis of variance (ANOVA) technique [8]. \r\nIII. RESULTS AND DISCUSSION \r\nGrain yield. The data on grain yield of mustard under the influence of irrigation and super absorbent polymer revealed that application of solid rain hydrogel @ 6.0 kg acre-1 along with two irrigations (P9I3) in mustard exhibited significantly maximum grain yield (17.53 and 17.62 q ha-1) of the crop during 2020 and 2021, respectively which was found statistically at par with P6I3 and P8I3 (Stockosorb 660 hydrogel @ 8.0 kg acre-1 and Nano hydrogel @ 8.0 kg acre-1 along with two irrigations) during both the years (Table 1 & Table 2). \r\nThis may be due to fact that hydrogel might have resulted in absorption/storage of moisture during the period of abundant supply viz., field capacity for release during the time of moisture stress thereby, with increased soil matric potential providing the crop with sufficient moisture supply during entire vegetative and reproductive phase thereby, augmenting the photosynthates accumulation in the crop which results in significant increase in seed yield of mustard during both the years of experimentation. Similar results have also been reported by [3].\r\nThis indicates that the SAP alleviated the impact of moisture stress by way of maintaining optimal water supply and thus, increased the yield of mustard. Application of irrigation increased the yield of mustard significantly over no irrigation [20]. SAP application increased the yield significantly over the control through optimal supply of water. Consequently, availability of adequate moisture to plants might have\r\nresulted in production of more photosynthates, helping in translocation of more photosynthates to the seeds and thus, improved these agronomic traits [14]. \r\nThe seed, stover and biological yields decreased significantly by 11, 7 and 8%, respectively due to moisture stress but compensated with the use of SAP either alone or in combinations with plant bio-regulators [4]. Significant increase in seed yield with the application of hydrogel over the control [21]. \r\nThe application of super absorbent polymer could reserve different amounts of water for itself and increase the soil water storage and preservation, and, at the last, under water deficiency, augments the plant water need, improving its growth. Thus, in drought stress, application of super absorbent affects the seed yield [14]. The maximum seed yield of mustard was recorded with super absorbent polymer through seed + soil was on a par with its soil application [2]. \r\nSoil microbial properties at initial: Fungi (6.48 CFU×104), bacteria (14.76 CFU×106) and actinomycetes (10.47 CFU × 105). \r\nIn 2020, fungi, bacteria and actinomycetes population were enhanced with increasing irrigation level. In 2020, fungi population was significantly highest under P6 (Stockosorb hydrogel @ 8.0 kg acre-1) being at par with rest of the hydrogels except P1, P7 and P10. Bacteria population was significantly highest under P8 (Nano hydrogel @ 8.0 kg acre-1) being at par with P9, P6, P3 and P10. Actinomycetes population was found non significant owing to application of hydrogels (Table 3). \r\nRudzinski et al., (2002) [18] showed that the diversity of microbes increased with the addition of SAPs and that soil moisture content played a greater role in deciding the degradation of SAPs. Saturated water treatment showed release of toxic compounds, while severe drought treatment showed decrease in pH. This discourages the use of PAAm based hydrogels for agricultural purposes. However, polyacrylate-based PUSA hydrogels were used as bioinoculants by Suman et al., (2016) [21] where shelf life of microorganisms was boosted from 3 months to 2 years in controlled condition and the treatment of the select cultures of microbes and hydrogel showed positive effect on plant growth. \r\nMicro-organisms in soil matrix play crucial role in nutrient pathway for plant uptake. Many bacteria break down complex nutrients inside soil and release it to the roots of the plant in its vicinity. A plant root system has a complex interaction with its environment such as rhizobium fauna, fungi, and bacteria. Hence, a healthy population of nitrogen and other nutrient fixing bacteria is tantamount to optimizing the overall yield of the plant [10]. This ecosystem is important for sustainable environment for plant growth. As most of these organisms propagate in aqueous situation, the availability of moisture in the form of entrapped water in hydrogels help create incubation tanks for the same.\r\nIn 2020, bacteria and actinomycetes population were enhanced with increasing irrigation level, however, fungi population was found in decreasing trend from control to one irrigation, thereafter, its population increased significantly over control and one irrigation. In 2021, fungi population was significantly highest \r\nunder P3I3 (Alsta hydrogel @ 6.0 kg acre-1 along with two irrigations) being at par with P2I3, P4I3, P5I3, P8I3 and P9I3. Bacteria population was significantly highest under P8I2 (Nano hydrogel @ 8.0 kg acre-1 along with one irrigation) being at par with P9I2 and P3I2.\r\nActinomycetes population was significantly highest under P9I3 (Solid rain hydrogel @ 6.0 kg acre-1 along with two irrigations) which was found at par with rest of the treatments (Table 4, Table 5 & Table 6). The interaction of microbes with hydrogel involves complex reactions and exchange of enzymes. The microbes are exposed to nutrient release and degradation products of hydrogel. Since symbiosis is essential for plant growth, hydrogels applied for agricultural productivity should pose no toxicity to the symbiotic organisms [13]. The hydrogels thus require to be tested for any sort of negative effects on microbes. Cytotoxicity test and high through-put genome sequencing of soil microbes are popular methods adopted for evaluation of hydrogel on microbial communities [18, 19]. \r\nAlthough positive effects are observed in crop production as shown in many studies, the toxicity at longer time period after degradation requires to be given sufficient scrutiny. Starch based hydrogels undergo fermentation, producing sugars, which serve as food for microbe species. Total microbial count for Actinomycetes, Azotobacter, total fungi, phosphate dissolving bacteria, and Azospirillum progressed when applied to sandy calcareous soil [7]. There is an increased microbial activity with the application of hydrogels under deficit condition [1]. Many micro-organisms contributed majorly to the degradation of the hydrogels themselves, and promote microbial survival.\r\n','Shashank Tyagi, Mahendra Singh and Nintu Mandal (2022). Effect of Super Absorbent Polymers on Grain Yield and Soil Microbial Counts in Mustard under Limited Irrigation. International Journal of Theoretical & Applied Sciences, 14(1): 26-31. '),(5093,'114','Influence of Super Absorbent Polymers and Irrigation Levels on Grain Yield, Water Productivity and Economics of Wheat','Shashank Tyagi*, Nintu Mandal and Mahendra Singh','8 Influence of Super Absorbent Polymers and Irrigation Levels on Grain Yield, Water Productivity and Economics of Wheat Shashank Tyagi.pdf','',1,'A field experiment was conducted during rabi season of 2019-20 and 2020-21 at Research farm of Bihar Agricultural College, Sabour with the objective to find out the performance of different super absorbent polymers on grain yield, water productivity and economics of wheat under different irrigation levels. This experiment consisted of three irrigation levels (I1- One irrigation at Crown Root Initiation (CRI) stage, I2- Two irrigations at CRI & flowering stage and I3- Three irrigations at CRI, Boot & milk stage) placed in main plot while levels of super absorbent polymers (P1- Control, P2- Magic hydrogel @ 5.0 kg acre-1, P3- Alsta hydrogel @ 6.0 kg acre-1, P4- Vedic hydrogel @ 3.0 kg acre-1, P5- Eco sarovar hydrogel @ 3.0 kg acre-1, P6- Stockosorb 660 hydrogel @ 8.0 kg acre-1, P7- Vaaridhar G1 hydrogel @ 1.0 kg acre-1, P8- Nano hydrogel @ 8.0 kg acre-1, P9- Solid rain hydrogel @ 6.0 kg acre-1 and P10- Zeba hydrogel @ 5.0 kg acre-1) were put in sub plots laid out in split plot design replicated thrice. Results indicated that application of solid rain hydrogel @ 6.0 kg acre-1 along with three irrigations recorded the higher grain yield (46.53 q ha-1 and 44.50 q ha-1) and water productivity (1.44 and 3.70 kg m-3) of wheat over control during 2020 and 2021, respectively, however, application of nano hydrogel @ 8.0 kg acre-1 along with three irrigations at CRI, Boot & milk stage recorded higher net return (Rs. 74469 and 68635 ha-1) of wheat over control during 2020 and 2021, respectively. Moreover, application of zeba hydrogel @ 5.0 kg acre-1 along with three irrigations at CRI, Boot & milk stage exhibited higher B:C ratio (1.58 and 1.59) over control during 2020 and 2021, respectively. ','Economics, Irrigation, Productivity, Super absorbent polymer, Wheat','Thus, it was concluded that solid rain hydrogel @ 6 kg acre-1 along with three irrigations at CRI, boot and milk stage exhibited highest grain yield and water productivity of wheat. Nano hydrogel @ 8 kg acre-1 along with three irrigations resulted in highest net return, while, B:C ratio was highest in zeba hydrogel @ 5 kg acre-1 along with three irrigations. Hydrogel with two irrigations to wheat can be advocated as sustainable strategy for enhancing profitable productivity of wheat. ','I. INTRODUCTION \r\nWater is considered as crucial input for agricultural production. It facilitates higher productive potential from land and significant response from agricultural inputs [9]. Poor use efficiency of water, nutrient and other agro-inputs is a serious bottleneck in realizing sustainable agricultural growth and future food security [7]. Wheat is grown on about 29.55 m ha in India with production of 101.20 m tonne and an average yield of 3424 kg ha-1. Water requirement of wheat vary from 180-420 mm [4]. Yield of wheat increased significantly with increasing levels of irrigation [10]. Moisture stress is known to reduce tillering, grain number per spike and grain size [15]. Therefore, there is urgent need to reduce water requirement of the crop by improving use efficiency of irrigation water under changing climate situation. Under this scenario, the productivity of wheat can only be sustained by using water saving technologies. Several technologies have been developed for improving water productivity of wheat [12]. \r\nHydrogel is an insoluble, cross-linked three-dimensional polymer which absorbs water more than 400 times of its weight and gradually releases it [3]. It enhances the crop productivity per unit available water, particularly in moisture stress. It also improves seed germination, seedling emergence rate and root growth that help plant to prolonged moisture stress [5]. Hydrogel reduces the leaching of herbicide, fertilizer and irrigation for crops. It promotes early flowering and tillering [14]. Significant improvement in yield and water use efficiency in wheat was reported by hydrogels [2]. Hydrogel in agriculture ensure better crop productivity in moisture stress by delaying permanent wilting point and delayed first irrigation and overall less irrigation make the crop nearly weed free. \r\nHydrogel saved significant irrigation water by producing more crops per drop of water, reduced cost of cultivation and used fewer resources (fertilizers, chemicals, water, power, labour) without any plenty on seed yield and environmental gains in rainfed region [13]. Because of unpredictable monsoon and water availability for farming, crops suffer due to either excess water in field or inadequate water. The gel mitigates the risks, if water availability drops. Two irrigations in wheat can be saved by application of hydrogel without compromising grain yield [19]. Keeping these issues in view, the present investigation was carried out to assess the influence of hydrogel on grain yield, water productivity and profitability of wheat under different irrigation levels. \r\nII. MATERIALS AND METHODS \r\nA field experiment was carried out in rabi season of 2019-20 and 2020-21 at Research Farm of Bihar Agricultural College, Sabour, Bhagalpur situated at latitude 25°15\' 40” N and longitude 87°2\' 42” E with an altitude of 37.46 meters above mean sea level with the aim to assess the effect of super absorbent polymers and irrigation on grain yield, water productivity and economics of wheat. The soil of experiment was sandy loam in texture, having a pH 7.27, low organic carbon 0.44 %, available low N 120.53 kg ha-1, available medium P 25.43 kg ha-1 and K 151.29 kg ha-1. The experiment was laid out in split plot design with three irrigation levels viz., one irrigation, two irrigations and three irrigations in main plot and ten super absorbent polymers viz., P1- Control, P2- Magic hydrogel @ 5.0 kg acre-1, P3- Alsta hydrogel @ 6.0 kg acre-1, P4- Vedic hydrogel @ 3.0 kg acre-1, P5- Eco sarovar hydrogel @ 3.0 kg acre-1, P6- Stockosorb 660 hydrogel @ 8.0 kg acre-1, P7- Vaaridhar G1 hydrogel @ 1.0 kg acre-1, P8- Nano hydrogel @ 8.0 kg acre-1, P9- Solid rain hydrogel @ 6.0 kg acre-1 and P10- Zeba hydrogel @ 5.0 kg acre-1 in subplots, replicated thrice. \r\nTo carry out the experiment, the land preparation operations viz., pre sowing irrigation, ploughing and levelling were done. Wheat variety, HD 2967 was sown with a recommended seed rate of 100 kg ha-1 on 20th November, 2019 during first year and on 22th November, 2021 during second year. The recommended dose of nitrogen, phosphorus and potash was 150-60-40 kg ha-1, respectively, which was applied through urea, single superphosphate and muriate of potash. The basal fertilizers in all the treatments including all the P and K fertilizers and 1/2 N fertilizer were applied, remaining half dose of N fertilizer was top-dressed. Hydrogel at different doses, well mixed with sufficient quantity of soil was applied to allotted experimental plots in furrows just before sowing of crop. While, hydrogel applied at the time of sowing of the crop. Other management practices including weeding and hoeing were adopted as per package and practices of the crop. \r\nYield parameters were recorded at the time of harvest. Five plants were selected randomly from each treatment to record the observations of yield attributing characters. The crop was harvested on 22th April, 2020 and 25th April, 2021 during first and second year, respectively. The data were analysed using analysis of variance (ANOVA) technique [6]. The net returns of different treatments were calculated by subtracting total cost of cultivation from gross returns of respective treatments. B: C ratio was calculated by dividing net return with cost of cultivation.\r\nIII. RESULTS AND DISCUSSION \r\nGrain yield. The data on grain yield of wheat under the influence of irrigation and super absorbent polymer revealed that in 2020, solid rain hydrogel @ 6.0 kg acre-1 along with three irrigations (P9I3) in wheat exhibited significantly maximum grain yield (46.53 q ha-1) of the crop which was at par with P8I3, P6I3, P3I3, P2I3 and P10I3 (Nano hydrogel @ 8.0 kg acre-1, Stockosorb 660 hydrogel @ 8.0 kg acre-1, Alsta hydrogel @ 6.0 kg acre-1 and Zeba hydrogel @ 5.0 kg acre-1 along with three irrigations) (Table 1). In 2021, stockosorb 660 hydrogel @ 8.0 kg acre-1 along with three irrigations (P6I3) in wheat exhibited significantly maximum grain yield (44.89 q ha-1) of the crop which was at par with rest of the treatments except P4I3, P5I3, P7I3 (Vedic hydrogel @ 3.0 kg acre-1, eco sarovar hydrogel @ 3.0 kg acre-1 and Vaaridhar G1 hydrogel @ 1.0 kg acre-1 along with three irrigations) and control (Table 2). Irrigation regimes have significant effect on grain yield of wheat [20]. Optimum water availability to wheat with irrigation might improve photosynthetic area of plant that cumulatively contributed to higher plant height, dry matter accumulation and CGR [11]. Thus, hydrogels release water as per crop need which resulted in higher yield. \r\nSince hydrogel is likely to improve water availability to wheat, this concurrently improves nutrient uptake and photosynthetic activity resulted in increased number of grains per ear, consequently enhanced grain yield. These results are in conformity with the findings of [21, 17]. This increment in productivity with hydrogel might be due to higher growth, dry matter and yield attributes due to optimum water availability. These results are in close agreement with [1, 18].\r\nBiological yield. Data on biological yield under influence of irrigation and super absorbent polymer revealed that in 2020, nano hydrogel @ 8.0 kg acre-1 along with three irrigations (P8I3) exhibited significantly maximum biological yield (120.01 q ha-1) being at par with P9I3, P2I3 and P6I3 (Solid rain hydrogel @ 6.0 kg acre-1, Magic hydrogel @ 5.0 kg acre-1 and Stockosorb 660 hydrogel @ 8.0 kg acre-1 along with \r\nthree irrigations) (Table 3). In 2021, Magic hydrogel @ 5.0 kg/acre-1 along with three irrigations (P2I3) exhibited significantly maximum biological yield (114.02 q ha-1) being at par with rest of the treatments except P4I3, P5I3, P7I3 (Vedic hydrogel @ 3.0 kg acre-1, eco sarovar hydrogel @ 3.0 kg acre-1 and vaaridhar G1 hydrogel @ 1.0 kg acre-1 along with three irrigations) and control (Table 4).\r\nThe significant increase in grain and biological yield increased with the increase in irrigation levels. The higher irrigation frequency fulfilled the timely crop water requirement, which resulted into better growth in term of plant height, which maintained better plant relation, which helped in opening of stomata and increased photosynthesis rate which ultimately resulted in higher grain yield. \r\nGrain and biological yield increased significantly with increased irrigation levels. There was progressive increase in wheat grain yield with every increment in irrigation level. These results are in conformity with the findings of [21]. Hydrogel acts as a great soil conditioner and not only helps to increase yield of wheat but also reduces water requirement of crop by 38 to 40%. Almost irrigation water can be saved for wheat in irrigated condition while in rainfed condition, water \r\nstress is minimized. These results are in conformity with the findings of [17]. \r\nWater productivity. The data on water productivity of wheat under the influence of irrigation and super absorbent polymer revealed that in 2020, solid rain hydrogel @ 6.0 kg acre-1 (P9) registered maximum water productivity (1.44 kg m-3) which was at par with nano hydrogel @ 8.0 kg acre-1 (P8) and stockosorb 660 hydrogel @ 8.0 kg acre-1 (P6) (Table 5). \r\nIn 2021, nano hydrogel @ 8.0 kg acre-1 (P8) registered maximum water productivity (3.77 kg m-3) which was at par with solid rain hydrogel @ 6.0 kg acre-1 (P9) and Stockosorb 660 hydrogel @ 8.0 kg acre-1 (P6). So far as irrigation level was concerned, water productivity was highest under one irrigation (I1) (Table 5). Under less or negligible rainfall, external irrigation enhances water holding capacity of hydrogel. Where irrigation is available, this technology could reduce number of irrigations. Two irrigations are saved by hydrogel without compromising grain yield. Hydrogel can be real advantage of water saving during rabi season. Super absorbent polymers are used into soil to create water reserve near rhizospheric zone and are beneficial for agriculturist [8]. \r\nCost of cultivation. The data on cost of cultivation of wheat under the influence of irrigation and super absorbent polymer revealed that three irrigation levels exhibited highest cost of cultivation of wheat among the irrigation treatments, however, as far as super absorbent polymer was concerned, cost of cultivation of wheat was recorded highest under solid rain hydrogel @ 6.0 kg acre-1 over control (Table 5).\r\nNet return. The data on net return of wheat under the influence of irrigation and super absorbent polymer revealed that in 2020, nano hydrogel @ 8.0 kg acre-1 along with three irrigations (P8I3) in wheat exhibited significantly maximum net return (Rs. 74469 ha-1) of the crop which was at par with P3I3, P2I3 and P10I3 (Alsta hydrogel @ 6.0 kg acre-1, magic hydrogel @ 5.0 kg acre-1 and zeba hydrogel @ 5.0 kg acre-1 along with three irrigations) (Table 6). \r\nIn 2021, zeba hydrogel @ 5.0 kg acre-1 along with three irrigations (P10I3) exhibited significantly maximum net return (Rs. 72179 ha-1) which was at par with P2I3, P8I3 and P3I3 (Magic hydrogel @ 5.0 kg acre-1, nano hydrogel @ 8.0 kg acre-1 and alsta hydrogel @ 6.0 kg acre-1 along with three irrigations) (Table 7). Higher crop productivity might be reason for higher net returns with three irrigations. Similar results were also reported by [11].\r\n\r\nB:C ratio. The data on B:C ratio of wheat under the influence of irrigation and super absorbent polymer revealed that zeba hydrogel @ 5.0 kg acre-1 along with three irrigations (P10I3) in wheat recorded maximum B:C ratio (1.58 and 1.59) during 2020 and 2021, respectively, which was at par with P8I3, P3I3 and P2I3 (Nano hydrogel @ 8.0 kg acre-1, Alsta hydrogel @ 6.0 kg acre- 1 and Magic hydrogel @ 5.0 kg acre-1 along with three irrigations) (Table 8 & Table 9). Similar results of higher profitability were also reported by [16] for irrigation and [18] for hydrogel.\r\n','Shashank Tyagi, Nintu Mandal and Mahendra Singh (2022). Influence of Super Absorbent Polymers and Irrigation Levels on Grain Yield, Water Productivity and Economics of Wheat. International Journal of Theoretical & Applied Sciences, 14(1): 32-37. '),(5094,'125','Regenerative Medicine: Strategies and Potential benefits','Prateek Bhardwaj, Nishkamya, Nisal Dineth, Afrin and Rattandeep Singh*','265 Regenerative Medicine Strategies and Potential benefits Rattandeep Singh.pdf','',1,'The most efficient and successful way of treating a patient suffering from failed or diseased organ is to transplant a donated one. This approach, although very popular and safe, has its limitations. The most concerning of which are the lack of sufficient donors and the immune-system mediated rejection of the new organ, and the solutions to these issues seem non-existent. This has prompted experts to look towards a relatively new alternative– Regenerative medicine that deals with the unification of cellular transplantation and tissue engineering with stem cell biology to regrow, revive, and repair living organs in-vivo. Over the last 3 decades, regenerative medicine has improved leaps and bounds and the current moment stands as the most viable alternative to organ transplantation. However, the advance of regenerative medicine is hindered by the lack of a consensus on its efficacy and the high costs of research and production that need to be addressed in the coming time.','Regenerative Medicine – Organ Transplant – Mesenchymal Stem Cells – Biomaterials – Bioprinting – Stem Cell Therapy','Regenerative medicine can repair or replace tissues and organs that have been damaged by age, disease, or trauma, as well as prevent congenital malformations. To date, promising preclinical and clinical data to support the use of regenerative medicine to treat both chronic diseases and acute insults, as well as maladies affecting a wide range of organ systems and contexts, such as dermal wounds, cardiovascular diseases and traumas, cancer treatments, and more. The current therapy of intact organ and tissue transplantation to cure organ and tissue failures and loss suffers from a scarcity of donors and frequently significant immunological problems, but these limitations could be overcome with the use of regenerative medicine. In the coming years, regenerative medicine will offer an advantageous alternative to classical allopathic medicine, however, it will be subjected to very controversial ethical arguments that need to be tackled gracefully. The most important direction in which regenerative medicine will move forward is toward the affordability and user safety of all the new creations.','INTRODUCTION\r\nStem Cells: Origin and Types. Stem cells are undifferentiated cells with self-renewal potential capable of undergoing morphological and physiological changes and undergoing non-oncogenic widescale proliferation to generate a plethora of progenitor cell lineages(Rajabzadeh et al., 2019). The history of stem cells dates back to the 1960s when hematopoietic stem cells (HSCs) were discovered and their use was authorized as a curative therapy for several congenital and blood-related disorders (Friedenstein et al., 1974), (Ghimire et al., 2017). Stem cells are classified primarily based on their potency or differentiation ability. Totipotent stem cells are capable of forming all the cell types found in a species (Zakrzewski et al., 2019). Pluripotent stem cells can form every single cell type found in an individual, and under natural conditions cannot form the extra-embryonic tissues (Zakrzewski et al., 2019). Multipotent stem cells are derived from the pluripotent stem cells, these can form all the cell types found in a single germlayer like the mesenchymal stem cells (MSCs) or can be the predecessors of a single lineage of cells like the HSCs. Unipotent stem cells are adult stem cells that exist adjacent to various differentiated tissues and act as the source of new cells to replace the old, dead, or damaged cells (Zakrzewski et al., 2019).\r\nStrategies involving Stem Cells. MSCs and HSCs represent the most commonly used types of stem cells for regenerative purposes, out of these; MSCs have the most distinct applications in the field of regenerative medicine. MSCs first came to the fore in 1924, when a single precursor cell was identified that gave rise to various types of blood cells within the embryonic mesenchyme (Rajabzadeh et al., 2019). Later it was identified that the embryonic connective tissue, the mesenchyme, maintained very close contact with the germinal layers and formed all the adult connective tissues. Human MSCs (hMSCs) originate as embryonic perivascular cells and are characterized by the cellular markers CD10, CD13, CD44, CD73, CD90, CD105, and CD107 (Crisan et al., 2008). In-vivo, it is often argued, that hMSCs do not function as stem cells and regenerate lost tissues, instead, they act as directors of repair by secreting a host of immunomodulatory and trophic factors that stimulate the tissue-specific progenitors to undertake the repair (Guimarães-Camboaet al., 2017). When introduced to any exogenous location, the hMSCs initiate and support the regeneration of the damaged parts making them very lucrative for organ repair and regeneration.\r\nThere are multiple sources of hMSCs and these are primarily divided into two types based on their origin – Adult Stem Cells exemplified by the bone marrow, adipose tissue, peripheral blood cells, and dental pulp, and Neonatal Stem Cells derived from the amnion, placenta, and umbilical cord (Rodríguez-Fuentes et al., 2021). Each one of these has unique immunotypic characteristics which lead to differential responses when introduced to exogenous sources for example the dental MSCs can differentiate into neurons, an ability that is unique among all MSCs (Suchanek et al., 2009).\r\nAs of February 2022, 1266 clinical studies are either undergoing or are completed on the applications of MSCs. 452 studies have already completed the four phases of trial and are in various stages of production (Home - ClinicalTrials.Gov, n.d.).Most of these studies are focused on finding cures or preventive measures for diseases that currently don’t have any cures (Rodríguez-Fuentes et al., 2021). The most significant results have been found in the field of cardiology. Diseases like cardiomyopathy and ischemic and non-ischemic heart failure have seen substantial improvements due to the new hMSC interventions (Rodríguez-Fuentes et al., 2021). Another important improvement is seen in the field of osteoarthritis, especially in the knee. Two treatments have shown optimistic results, one involves intra-articular injections of bone marrow MSCs and the second involves administration of a fibrin-glue (Gel-one®) along with bone marrow MSCs to the affected region (Kalamegam et al., 2018), (Ruane, 2019). Another cellular intervention is CARTISTEM® for the repair of degenerated articular knee cartilage, it involves the administration of umbilical cord-derived MSCs along with sodium-hyaluronate to repair the damaged tissue (Medipost Co Ltd., 2021). With the onset of the COVID pandemic, MSCs have shown potential in curing the complications seen in patients due to acute lung injury (Ricordi, 2021; Matthay, 2017).\r\nTendon Injuries. Another field that has gained a lot of attention in regenerative medicine is tendon injuries and healing. Tendons are connective tissues that are present between muscles and bones and along with ligaments are essential for the proper biomechanical functioning of the body (Vinhas et al., 2018). Tendons are mainly comprised of tenocytes and have some populations of stem and progenitor cells. Tenocytes are the main ECM-forming cells in the tendons and are often supported by a minor population of chondrocytes present in the tendons (Millar et al., 2016). Tendons are very poorly vascularized and innervated and this is the biggest reason that tendon injuries require a long time to heal, and in most cases never heal back to previous mobility (Thomopoulos et al., 2015). In conventional treatment, the focus is mostly on reducing the collateral damage caused due to prolonged inflammation at the site of injury to reduce fibrotic scarring (Vinhas et al., 2018). This approach accelerates the healing but leads to the development of tendinopathies. Tendinopathies are usually associated with the change in cellularity in the tendon progenitor niches leading to infiltration of immune cells and upregulation of inflammatory signals like IL-1, IL-6, and COX-2 (Millar et al., 2017). Tendon-derived stem cells (TDSCs) are progenitor cells found in tendons that can differentiate into chondrocytes, osteocytes, and tenocytes in-vitro(Lui, 2013). These participate in the regulation of inflammation in-vivo at the site of injury, especially CD146 + TDSCs, that secrete anti-inflammatory signals like IL-10 and TIMP-3 to down-regulate pro-inflammatory type-I macrophages (M1) cells (Tarafder et al., 2017). So, these have been used as a method to heal tendons while eliminating the possibility of scarring. It was seen that TDSCs cultured in fibrin glue, when introduced in a patellar tendon window defect rat model, increased the rate of collagen production and tissue regeneration (Ni et al., 2013). In another study on the rabbit model, it was seen that TDSCs entrapped in silk-collagen scaffold improved the rate of rotator cuff regeneration by inducing differentiation in tenogenic cells and providing an anti-inflammatory niche (Shen et al., 2012). These studies highlight that TDSCs have a lot of potentials to act as alternatives to conventional treatment regimens for tendon injuries and can even be better in some cases as they can restore the complete functionality of an injured tendon without any bio-mechanical loss.\r\nAutoimmune Diseases. Autoimmune diseases like Rheumatoid Arthritis (RA) and Systemic Lupus Erythematosus (SLE) are widespread in modern society, but unfortunately, no exact treatment is available for either of these. RA is a systemic autoimmune disease caused due to degradation of joints and expansion of synovial tissue (Shende et al., 2018). The pathogenesis of RA involves major inflammatory cells like macrophages and monocytes along with the TH1 subset of T-cells. These are incited by pro-inflammatory cytokines, especially TNF-a, IL-1b, IL-6, and IL-18 (Ganesan & Rasool, 2017). This inflammation induces hyperplasia in the synovial tissue mainly due to the active proliferation of Fibroblast-like Synoviocytes (FLSs) causing the characteristic joint pain and degradation in RA (Ganesan & Rasool 2017). In a study, four patients suffering from RA were administered bone-marrow-derived MSCs from allogenic sources and were observed. Two of the four patients suffered from mild EULAR reactions but had significant improvement in their RA (Liang et al., 2012). Following this, a larger study was conducted with 172 RA patients. Out of the 172, 136 received a treatment regime that included the conventional disease-modifying anti-rheumatic drugs (DMARDs) along with an intravenous injection of umbilical cord-derived MSCs (UC-MSCs) and the rest acted as a control group that only received the cell-dissolving media and DMARDs. The patients that received the UC-MSCs along with DMARDs showed no adverse reaction even after 6 months of the administration and only 4% showed any sort of reaction at all and overall showed better improvement in their RA profiles when compared to the DMARDs only control group (Wang et al., 2013). This study showed that UC-MSCs might have the potential to solve the long-standing problem of RA treatment and should be investigated further. \r\nSLE is a chronic inflammatory auto-immune disease that affects several major organ systems and leads to their failure if left unchecked it is fatal (Lee et al., 2016). The cause of SLE is multi-faceted and includes both genetic and environmental factors that eventually lead to a complete loss of self-tolerance and over-activation of the immune system leading to catastrophic organ damage (Tsokos et al., 2016). It has been noted in patients with SLE that the MSCs derived from their bone marrow have impaired immuno-modulatory functions (Gao et al., 2017). It has also been noted that these MSCs have increased the production of reactive oxygen species, increased DNA damage and upregulation of p53 and p16 pathways, increased release of pro-inflammatory cytokines, and suppression of Bcl-2 and IDO production, leading to a breakdown of self-tolerance and hence the pathogenesis of SLE (Gao et al., 2017). However, in pre-clinical studies it is seen in the mice model of SLE there is a reduction in proteinuria and serum self-antibody levels and an improvement in renal function and lung function after transplantation of allogeneic MSCs (Xu, 2018). There have been multiple clinical trials as well that have used allogeneic bone marrow-derived MSCs and UC-MSCs to alleviate the symptoms of SLE patients as reviewed by Xu (Xu, 2018). These MSCs when introduced into the patient, decrease the infiltration of CD3+ inflammatory cells and complement C3 in the organs, especially kidneys (Thiel et al., 2015). These MSCs also decrease the serum levels of inflammatory cytokines TNF-α and IL-6, decrease the levels of TH1 cytokines, namely, IFN-α, IL-2, and IL-17, and simultaneously increase TH2 cytokines IL-4 and IL-10, causing amelioration of the SLE symptoms (He et al., 2016). The bone marrow-derived MSCs induce apoptosis in T-cells by secreting the monocyte chemotactic factor-1 (Akiyama et al., 2012). This apoptosis causes the macrophages to secrete huge amounts of TGF-α which then upregulates a subset of Treg cells leading to a significant reduction in SLE symptoms and an increase in self-tolerance (Akiyama et al., 2012). The final facet of this therapy is that MSCs have a down-regulatory effect on B-cells, as the MSCs cause the inhibition of follicular T helper cells (Zhang et al., 2017). The most alluring feature of this therapy is that like conventional medication it suppresses the initial symptoms of SLE, but it also goes one step ahead and helps in rebuilding the lost self-tolerance and the damaged tissue in patients without any sideeffects (Xu, 2018).\r\nBiomaterial Assisted Approach \r\nBiomaterials. A substance is defined as a biomaterial if it augments or replaces any part of the body during its time of use and in the process helps in the recovery of functioning of the body (Nii & Katayama 2021). In regenerative medicine, biomaterials have a significant role, they can act as scaffolds that allow cells to grow for tissue engineering (Rahmati et al., 2018), or they can act as in-vivo growth promoters, especially when the composition of the biomaterials is similar to ECMs (Lee et al., 2018; Sainio & Järveläinen 2020). The immense popularity of biomaterials is attributed to their bio-compatibility, i.e., their ability to successfully integrate into the recipient body without eliciting any immune responses (Rahmati et al., 2018).\r\nNatural Biomaterials and Applications. There are several types of biomaterials. The naturally occurring biomaterials are derived from proteins, and polysaccharides or are decellularized tissue matrices, as these have a plethora of favorable ligands that interact with newly growing cells and prompt them to grow quicker (Rodríguez Patino & Pilosof 2011). These polymers are derived from allogeneic and xenogeneic sources after multiple treatments with detergents and enzymes. The natural polymers are non-toxic and can offer customizable growing platforms for cells used in regenerative medicine (Ige et al., 2012). One of the most common examples of such a material is collagen. Collagen is one of the most abundant proteins in the body and has the role of providing mechanical support (Nii & Katayama 2021). There are five basic types of collagen in the human body, Type-I collagen is the most abundant and is mainly found in skin, tendons, and bones. Type-II collagen is mainly found in cartilage, followed by Type-III collagen which is the reticular form and supports Type-I. Type-IV collagen is mainly found in the basal lamina of the basement membranes. Type-V collagen is the surface collagen and is concentrated on cell surfaces, hair, and the placenta (Ashokkumar & Ajayan, 2021). Irrespective of the type, every form of collagen has a conserved triple helix in the molecule. In the field of regenerative medicine, a composite containing collagen and biphasic calcium phosphate nanoparticles was prepared, and this was used to ensure a puppeteered release of dexamethasone. Dexamethasone promotes MSC differentiation into new bone tissue and when this composite was injected into an athymic nude mouse model, high bone regeneration was observed (Y. Chen et al., 2018). Another group created a collagen hydrogel that encapsulated a multicellular mixture of MSCs and human umbilical vein endothelial cells, This hydrogel was then cultured in form of spheroids that showed a high degree of proliferation and osteogenic differentiation in the MSCs, and this change was attributed to the collagen hydrogel (Heo et al., 2019). Collagen has also been used in the engineering of blood vessels, skin, cancer, and muscles (Nii & Katayama, 2021). The problem with collagen is its insolubility in water and its inertness toward biological stimulation. Hydrolyzed collagen or gelatin has appeared as a prominent solution for regenerative medicine. Unlike collagen, gelatin has around 7-14% (average 10%) water content (Yakimets et al., 2005), this allows gelatin to permeate surrounding water-soluble nutrients and oxygen in significant quantities (Nii et al., 2019), making it more conducive for regenerative medicine.This property also allows gelatin to permeate multiple growth factors, and thus when gelatin hydrogels containing basic FGF were introduced into injured tissue, regeneration was observed (Kawai et al., 2000). Another essential advantage of gelatin is the fact that once hardened, it does not solubilize easily, so to release any entity, for example, a drug, encapsulated inside a gelatin coating, the body has to actively digest it using enzymes, thus ensuring a controlled release of the drug and no remanent gelatin that can hinder with the growth of cells (Nii et al., 2020). Gelatin nanospheres charged with cationic entities and loaded with imaging probes have been designed to detect mRNA in-vivo(Murata et al., 2019) and have been used to visualize post-transplantation processes like apoptosis, macrophage phenotypes, and cell proliferation (Nii & Katayama 2021). A very atypical example of a natural biomaterial is silk, especially the pre-dominantly found crystalline structured protein fibroin which is present in combination with another amorphous protein sericin (Liu et al., 2015). Sericin is often degummed from silk to obtain pure silk fibroin (Sahu et al., 2016), as sericin has immunogenic properties (Jiao et al., 2017) and also reduces the mechanical strength of fibroin (Vepari & Kaplan, 2007). Fibroin is an excellent biomaterial owing to its biological inertness and ease of digestion (Cao & Wang 2009). It has multiple uses in regenerative medicine as reviewed by Nii and Katayama (Nii & Katayama 2021), but it shines the most in bone-related regenerative therapies. It is exemplified by the fact the MSCs grown in silk-fibroin scaffolds achieved an enhanced rate of osteogenesis(Meinel et al., 2006).\r\n Synthetic Biomaterials and Applications. Synthetic biomaterials trump their natural counterparts due to their cheap costs of production, ease of manipulation, flexibility, and reproducibility (Rahmati et al., 2018). Synthetic biomaterials include synthetic polymers, bioactive ceramics, and composites. Synthetic polymers are exemplified by poly (lactic acid) (PLA) and poly(lactic-co-glycolic acid) (PLGA). PLA is a polyester composed of -[C3H4O2]-subunits and is thermoplastic in nature (Nagarajan et al., 2016). Its flexibility, thermoplasticity, and heat resistance along with a young’s modulus similar to bones make it a very attractive prospect for tissue engineering (Chen et al., 2018; Grémare et al., 2018). A combination of hydroxyapatite and PLA has been created that act as scaffolds for high-efficiency culturing of mouse embryonic osteoblasts (Si et al., 2019; Zimina et al., 2020). PLA, despite its advantages, has faded out of popularity mainly due to the difficulties in processing it and creating a balanced PLAmix that has considerably high heat tolerance but at the same time is not very brittle (Nagarajan et al., 2016). PLGA is polyester of lactic and glycolic acid and has arrived as an alternative for PLA. It has better biodegradability, biocompatibility, and easier processing when compared to PLA(Astete & Sabliov 2006). PLGA microcarriers containing leuprolide have been used to ameliorate prostate and breast cancer symptoms (Enayati et al., 2017). Neuronal tissue engineering is mostly dependent on PLGA, as exemplified by the successful culture of neurotrophin-3 over-expressing cells that were supported by PLGA microspheres (Moradian et al., 2017). PLGA also is a promising prospect for brain injury remediation as in-vitro cultures of neurons and MSCs on PLGA scaffolds showed significant differentiation and growth (Zhou et al., 2018). It has also been observed that a combination of PLGA microspheres containing an anti-inflammatory agent, pioglitazone showed a marked increase in arginase activity and IL-10 secretion of mouse bone-marrow-derived macrophages, which corresponds to an anti-inflammatory polarization of the progeny macrophages (Momotori et al., 2019).\r\nBio-ceramics have taken the lead on other types of biomaterials in the field of orthopedic and dentistry-related regenerative medicine owing to their superior biocompatibility, mechanical stress tolerance, and aesthetic appeal (Dorozhkin, 2015). Three types of bio-ceramics are currently being used for regenerative medicine, bio-inert ceramics, bioactive ceramics, and bioresorbable ceramics.One example of bioresorbable ceramic is inorganic calcium phosphates (CaP). CaPs are naturally occurring compounds containing both Ca+2 ions and phosphate ions (PO43-, HPO42-, H2PO41-, [P2O7]4-, [P3O10]5-). These are found in bones and teeth tissues. Studies have shown that inorganic CaP coatings on scaffolds can increase bone regeneration, enhance cell adhesion and proliferation, and increase differentiation in MSCs, both in-vitro and in-vivo (Surmenev et al., 2014). Another study has shown that scaffolds made up of biphasic calcium phosphate (BCP), a mixture of CaP ceramics hydroxyapatite and β-tricalcium phosphate (Suneelkumar et al., 2008), which were loaded with BMP-2 and MSCs showed bone regeneration, and new tissue formation in just 8 weeks after implantation in a rabbit model (Kim et al., 2015). Another study also showed that scaffolds made of BCP mixed with collagen-containing BMP-2 are much better at initializing bone-tissue formation at the initial stages (3-6 weeks) as compared to only BCP scaffolds, making such hybrid ceramics a lucrative option (Lim et al., 2021). Hydroxyapatite (HA) is another promising entry into the list of bioresorbable ceramics. HA [Ca5(PO4)3(OH)] is a naturally occurring mineral compound in the bone and teeth. The Ca+2 in the HA can be replaced by other metals or even fluoride and chloride to give this mineral a wide variety of applications (Lin & Chang 2015). A study noted that using HA scaffolds with Zn ions induced bone development in rat models in 6-weeks, and the rate of induction was better when compared to collagen scaffolds (Chou et al., 2016).\r\nAn example of bioactive ceramics is bioactive glasses. First developed in 1969, bioactive glasses mainly constitute silica (SiO2), boric acid (B2O3), and phosphoric oxide (P2O5) along with some modifiers (Rahmati et al., 2018). The first-ever bioactive glass was 45S5, more commonly known as Bioglass®. It contained 24.6% CaO and 6% P2O5 embedded in a SiO2-Na2O matrix (Hench, 2006). Since then, several other forms of bioactive glasses have been designed. The bioactive glasses S53P4 (Bonalive®) (Our Story - Bonalive, n.d.), Bioglass 8625 (Schott VivoTag®) (VivoTag® RFID Transponder Glass Capsules | SCHOTT, n.d.), and Bioglass 13-93 (Fu et al., 2008) are some of the newer forms of bioactive glasses. According to a study conducted on a lapine model, the use of low-silica bioactive glasses can induce the new formation and can help repair bone defects (Nommeots-Nomm et al., 2017). Another study has also indicated that the addition of Cu2+ ions in bioactive glasses can enhance rates of osteogenesis, and decrease the chances of any foreign invasion, especially opportunistic bacteria like Escherichia coli and Staphylococcus aureus (Bari et al., 2017).\r\nCarbon-based bioinert ceramics like graphene, fullerenes, carbonnanotubes, quantum dots, nanocrystalline diamond films, diamond-like carbon, mesoporous carbon nanomaterials, and carbon nanofibers are some very alluring and recent prospects for regenerative applications (Rahmati et al., 2018). For instance fullerenes and nanodiamonds have been used for bioimaging and cancer diagnosis and therapy (Lichota & Krokosz, 2016; Qin et al., 2021). Similarly, multi-walled carbon nanotube blocks containing BMP-2 when inserted into rat muscles led to the generation of ectopic bones (Tanaka et al., 2017). Graphene, a 2-D sheet-like carbon allotrope, has shown potential for tissue regeneration and engineering (Shang et al., 2019), especially neural (Aydin et al., 2018) and liver tissue regeneration (Geetha Bai et al., 2019). Graphene-based scaffolds have also shown the potential to act as in-vivo niches for MSC proliferation and differentiation into bone tissue (Crowder et al., 2013).\r\nA composite biomaterial is the macroscopic combination of two materials that have significant discrepancies in their physical, chemical, and mechanical properties and the overall properties of the composite are the net sums of the properties of its constituents (Egbo, 2021). Conventional composites were often created by adding carbonfiber to polymer matrices. One such example is carbon fiber reinforced-polyether-etherketone (PEEK). PEEK has been successfully utilized for orthopedic and dental plate and screw creation (Rahmati et al., 2018). Several other composites have also been designed and utilized for the treatment and replacement of bones, cartilage, and ligaments (Egbo, 2021). A subset of composites are nanocomposites, in which at least one material is at the nanometer scale. These have shown excellent manipulability and bio-compatibility and therefore are one of the most discussed topics in regenerative medicine (Follmann et al., 2017). For instance nanocomposite hydrogels, which are hydrogels with an additional nanomaterial filled in the matrix, giving it more controllable physio-chemical properties as compared to conventional hydrogels (Carrow & Gaharwar, 2015). These are currently highly in demand due to their ability to mimic ECM conditions and provide adequate hydration to nutrients and cells alike, especially in electroactive tissues like cardiac tissue, nerve tissue, and skeletal muscles (Mehrali et al., 2017). Some nanocomposites have shown the ability to self-heal using either external effects like Joule’s effect or intrinsic properties like supramolecular interactions, Diels-Alder’s reaction, and Au-S exchange, making them very exciting prospects for in-vivo regenerative therapies (Orellana et al., 2021; Sanka et al., 2019).\r\nRegenerative medicine- future strategies andtargeted diseases. The loss of organs and tissues due to disease and damage motivates the development of drugs that can regenerate tissues and lessen the need for transplantation. Regenerative medicine is an interdisciplinary field that employs engineering and life science ideas to promote tissue and organ regeneration. Since the field\'s foundation decades ago, the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has approved and commercialized a variety of regenerative medicine therapies, including those for wound healing and orthopedics. This article will go through these drugs as well as other regenerative medicine strategies that are currently being studied in both preclinical and clinical settings. The most recent advancements in the production of advanced grafts and tissue mimics, as well as graft technology\r\nTherapies in the Market. Since tissue engineering and regenerative medicine became a business around two decades ago, a variety of therapies have received FDA clearance or approval and are commercially available. The introduction of therapeutic cells that directly contribute to the creation and function of new tissues has been one of the most important concepts of regenerative medicine to date. These treatments use either autologous or allogeneic cells that have been differentiated yet still have the potential to proliferate. Carticel, for example, is the first FDA-approved biologic product in the orthopedic field, and it uses autologous chondrocytes to treat localized articular cartilage defects. Autologous chondrocytes are taken from articular cartilage, expanded ex vivo, and transplanted into the damaged region, resulting in patient healing.\r\nTherapies at the Preclinical Stage and in Clinical Testing. At the preclinical and clinical stages of research, a wide range of approaches are presently being investigated. The numerous techniques, which are grouped into three groups, will be discussed in the subsections that follow: fabricating scaffolds, 3D bioprinting, and self-assembly to replicate organ and tissue structure; (ii) vascularization and innervation to integrate grafts with the host; and (iii) altering the host environment to induce therapeutic responses, particularly through cell infusion and immune system modulation. Finally, regenerative medicine strategies based on newly discovered and developed cell sources will be described.\r\nRecapitulating Tissue and Organ Structure. Because tissue and organ design are so tightly related to function, it\'s a frequent assumption that the ability to reconstruct structure is essential for successful tissue recapitulation. One method for capturing organ shape and material composition in synthetic tissues is to decellularize organs before transplantation. Decellularization removes immunogenic cells and chemicals while potentially conserving the structure, mechanical properties, and material composition of the native extracellular matrix. This approach has been used in bioreactors and animal models of diseases involving the lungs, kidneys, liver, pancreas, and heart.\r\nThe field of regenerative medicine comprises a wide range of strategies for replacing missing tissue, including the use of materials and de novo-created cells, as well as diverse combinations of both, both structurally and functionally.\r\nA lot of strategies are being studied at the preclinical and clinical stages of research. The sections will go over the various strategies, which have been divided into three categories: replicating organ and tissue structure through scaffold fabrication, 3D bioprinting, and self-assembly; integrating grafts with the host through vascularization and innervation; and altering the host environment to induce therapeutic responses, particularly through cell infusion and immune system modulation. Finally, regenerative medicine techniques for utilizing recently discovered and developed cell sources will be discussed.\r\nIt is also possible to create synthetic scaffolds that have at least some of the material properties and structure of the target tissue. Scaffolds can be made from natural materials such as purified extracellular matrix components or algae-derived alginate, or synthetic polymers.\r\nAccording to animal studies, the seeded cells in TEVGs did not contribute structurally to the graft once in the host but instead controlled the inflammatory response that helped host vascular cells populate the graft to build the new blood artery. Biodegradable vascular grafts seeded with cells, cultivated so that the cells produce extracellular matrix, and then de-cellularizedis being tested in patients with end-stage renal failure. Scaffolds with a variety of mechanical properties have been developed to provide bulk mechanical support for tissue formation as well as instructive cues to adhering cells. Soft fibrin–collagen hydrogels, for example, have been studied as lymph node mimics, while faster degrading alginate hydrogels aided in the regeneration of critical defects. \r\nIn some cases, the mechanical properties of the polymer may be sufficient to provide a therapeutic effect. Injection of alginate hydrogels into the left ventricle, for example, has been shown to slow the progression of heart failure in dilated cardiomyopathy models and is currently being tested in clinical trials. The use of composite polyglycolide and collagen scaffolds seeded with cells as bladder replacements for human patients demonstrated how combining materials with different properties can improve scaffold function. Another study found that an electro-spun nano-fiber mesh loaded with bone morphogenic protein 2 and paired with peptide-modified alginate hydrogel increased bone growth in critically sized defects. Medical imaging techniques such as computed tomography (CT) and magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) can be used to generate 3D representations of substitute tissues on occasion.\r\nIn some cases, it may be possible to design new tissues without the use of scaffolds. Cell sheet technology works by removing a confluent sheet of cells from a temperature-responsive substrate while leaving cell-cell adhesion and signaling molecules, as well as ECM molecules deposited by the cells, intact. Layers of sheets can be stacked on top of each other to create thicker structures. This technique has been tried in a variety of applications, including corneal restoration. Autologous oral mucosal cells were grown into sheets, collected, and implanted to epithelialize human corneas. Autonomous cellular self-assembly could also be used to create tissues and as an adjunct to bio-printing.\r\n','Prateek Bhardwaj, Nishkamya, Nisal Dineth, Afrin and Rattandeep Singh (2022). Regenerative Medicine: Strategies and Potential benefits. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 14(2): 1545-1554.'),(5095,'125','Impact of Various Modules on Ants and Coccinellids of Fall Armyworm, Spodoptera frugiperda (J. E Smith) in Maize Ecosystem','Kavyashree B.A., Sharanabasappa S. Deshmukh*, Kalleshwaraswamy C.M., Shivanna B.K. and Sridhar S.','266 Impact of Various Modules on Ants and Coccinellids of Fall Armyworm, Spodoptera frugiperda _J. E Smith_ in Maize Ecosystem Kavyashree B A.pdf','',1,'It is crucial to thoroughly understand the natural enemies to develop an environmentally sound pest management approach. This has made it necessary to assess various modules against Spodoptera frugiperda in maize. Different modules were tested in the field against S. frugiperda, and their impact on its natural enemies specifically on ants and coccinellids in maize during the Rabi 2019-20 were tested. The results revealed that the Bio Intensive Pest Management (BIPM) module was ultimately the most promising, with respect to density of ants and coccinellids and effective conservation of natural enemies, despite the fact that the Farmers Practice (FP) and Integrated Pest Management (IPM) modules had lower larval populations and less damage, indicating the suitability and feasibility of BIPM in maize ecosystems by augmenting natural enemies.','Fall armyworm, Spodoptera frugiperda, Ants, Coccinellids, Module, IPM, Farmers practice, Bio-intensive','The bio-intensive module was effective in maintaining the ants and coocinellids population in maize crop. Thus, contributing the higher natural enemies population in controlling the target pest.','INTRODUCTION\r\nFall armyworm (FAW), Spodoptera frugiperda (J. E. Smith) (Lepidoptera: Noctuidae), native to the Americas and is known to attack a large number of crops. This recently invaded pest has out crossed the damage of other pests of maize, causing considerable damage (CABI, 2019). The economic losses of crop yield from FAW can reach between 15-73 per cent worldwide in maize alone (Guo et al., 2018). The development of integrated pest management (IPM) solutions is necessitated by the growing challenges caused by the ongoing use of pesticides and the inability of control strategies to keep insect populations under check. IPM has received more attention as a potential strategy for lowering reliance on chemical pest management and promoting the cultivation of maize and its long-term viability (Pretty and Bharucha, 2015; Bista et al., 2020). As a result, numerous IPM solutions must be developed and assessed to sustain maize yield while minimizing adverse environmental effects. As a result, the current study is being carried out to incorporate eco-friendly inputs in IPM modules against the natural enemies of S. frugiperda in the maize ecosystem.\r\nMATERIAL AND METHODS\r\nThe experimental sites were located at the Agricultural and Horticultural Research Station (14.2959° N, 75.8323°E), Kathalagere, Davanagere, and the farmer\'s field (14.1435°N, 75.5539°E), Surahonne village of Honnali taluk of Davanagere district of Karnataka, Both the sites experience a semi-arid climate (Central dry zone, KA-4) with an average annual rainfall of 567 mm. The fields selected for the study were equipped with all the required agricultural practices except recommended plant protection measures. The maize hybrid, CP-818, was sown at 60 cm × 30 cm spacing with a plot size of 125 m2 for each module. The experiments were laid in Randomized Block Design (RBD) in both the years, i.e., Rabi 2020 and Rabi 2021. The observations on infestations by fall armyworms on maize crop were recorded weekly on 20 randomly selected maize plants from each of the five replications. The following observations were recorded in each module. The population of natural enemies from twenty randomly selected maize plants from five points in each module was counted weekly, from 15 days after sowing up to 50 days after sowing. The data were analyzed and subjected to one-way ANOVA with SPSS software for pooled data and are presented with a level of significance of 5% (p=0.05). Treatment details of various modules used in the study are provided below (Table 1).\r\nRESULTS AND DISCUSSION\r\nCoccinellids population was recorded based on their number. Adult coccinellids viz., Coccinella septempunctata, Coccinella transversalis, Harmonia sp., Scymnus sp. were recorded in various modules. \r\nThere was no significant difference in the density of coccinellids in all the modules, including the untreated control at 14 DAS in both years. Bio intensive module (0.64/plant) showed higher coccinellids density, followed by the IPM module (0.40/plant). Significantly higher number of coccinellids was recorded in the bio-intensive module (0.50/plant), whereas, IPM module (0.16/plant) and chemical control module (0.18/plant) showed lower number in the coccinellids at 28 DAS. The average number of coccinellids population on different days after sowing, the bio-intensive module (0.51/plant) recorded a higher number of coccinellids, followed by the IPM module (0.36/plant). The chemical control module (0.24/plant) recorded the least coccinellids density. Untreated control (0.33/plant) also exhibited a considerable amount in coccinellids, comparable to the IPM module (0.36/plant). The chemical control module recorded the lowest number in coccinellids (0.18/plant). Whereas remaining modules, including control, showed a significantly higher number of coccinellids at 14 DAS. Bio intensive module recorded the highest number of coccinellids (2.18/plant), and the lowest number (0.10/plant) was recorded in the chemical control module. At 28 DAS, the bio-intensive module exhibited a higher number of coccinellids (1.86/plant). The bio-intensive module recorded a significantly higher number of coccinellids at 42 DAS (1.73) and 49 DAS (1.65). The chemical control module recorded the least coccinellids density (0.22/plant) (Fig. 1). \r\nVariation in the population of ants, Camponotus sericeus were recorded. There was no significant difference in all the modules tested and the density of ants was on par with each other at 14 and 21 DAS. The significant difference in ant density was observed at 28 DAS, where highest density were recorded in bio intensive module (0.22). Similarly, highest ant density was recorded at 35 (0.51/plant), 42 (0.76/plant) and 49 DAS (0.65/plant) in bio-intensive module. The chemical control module (0.12/plant) and IPM module (0.12/plant) recorded the lowest ants density during crop growth. The highest density in ants was recorded in the bio-intensive module (0.42/plant) (Fig. 2). Ompraksh et al. (2020) recorded variation in coccinellids from 2-3 per plant in several modules. The highest density was reported in Module II, consisting of 10 days after germination (DAG)-Azadirachtin 1500 ppm (5ml/litre), 20 DAG- Bt formulation (2 g/lire), 30 DAG-Emamectin benzoate (0.4 g/litre), 40DAG-Spinetorum (0.5 ml/litre). Two sprays of sugar solution (10%) at 15 and 30 DAS have increased ant density in the bio-intensive module. Our results are in conformity with Canas and O\'Neil (1998), who reported an increase in ant population in sugar-treated maize. The application of sugar in maize fields enhanced the number of individual natural enemies, linked to lower leaf area damage and whorl infestations. By preserving the natural enemies, sugar could play a vital role in a fall armyworm pest management programme (Canas and O’Neil 1998). Ants, particularly S. geminata, have been identified as major predators of early instar fall armyworms, and ants have been linked to fall armyworm dynamics (Perfecto, 1991). Canas and O\'Neil (1998) observed that spraying corn with white sugar at a rate of 17 kg/ha of white sugar enhanced the number of Solenopsis geminata (Fabricius) (Hymenoptera: Formicidae). Similarly, Bortolotto et al. (2014) showed the highest number of parasitized fall armyworms (11.38%) treated with white sugar and also showed higher parasitism caused by white sugar and molasses treatment reduced neither pest population nor leaf injuries, and their treatment with white sugar and molasses increased the parasitism of S. frugiperda, but did not reduce the fall armyworms in the field. Their treatment with the application of sugar was nowhere related to the occurrence of ants and they observed ants only in one particular season. \r\n','Kavyashree, B.A., Sharanabasappa, S. Deshmukh, Kalleshwaraswamy, C.M., Shivanna, B.K. and Sridhar, S. (2022). Impact of Various Modules on Ants and Coccinellids of Fall Armyworm, Spodoptera frugiperda (J. E Smith) in Maize Ecosystem. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 14(2): 1555-1558.'),(5096,'125','Influence of Moisture Regimes and Fertility Level on Root and Qualitative Studies of Wheat (Triticum aestivum L.) under Late Sown condition','Ankit Kumar*, A.K. Singh, Vishal Singh, Ravi Verma and Kuldeep Singh','267 Influence of Moisture Regimes and Fertility Level on Root and Qualitative Studies of Wheat _Triticum aestivum L._ under Late Sown condition Manoj Kumar.pdf','',1,'The experiment was conducted at Agronomy Research Farm, Acharya Narendra Deva University of Agriculture & Technology, Narendra Nagar, (Kumarganj), Ayodhya (U.P.) during Rabi season of 2019-20 and 2020-21. The experiment were laid out in split plot design having three moisture regimes i.e. Irrigation at 0.8 IW/CPE ratio (I1), Irrigation at 1.0 IW/CPE ratio (I2) and irrigation at 1.2 IW/CPE ratio (I3) with 6 cm depth of each irrigation were allotted as main plot and four fertility level i.e.100% RDF by inorganic fertilizer (F1), 75% RDF by inorganic fertilizer + 25% RDN by FYM (F2), 50% RDF by inorganic fertilizer + 50% RDN by FYM (F3) and 25% RDF by inorganic fertilizer + 75% RDN by FYM (F4) kept as sub plot. The experiment was replicated three times on silty loam in texture soil and medium in fertility status having pH (8.32 and 8.26), organic carbon (0.31 and 0.32%), EC (0.28 and 0.30) dsm-1.The highest value of root studies were recorded under moisture regimes I2 compared to other. However, in fertility level highest value observed under F2 was compared to other treatment level at 60 DAS. The maximum value of N, P, and K content and uptake in grain and straw were recorded under moisture regimesI2 compared to other treatment. However, maximum nutrient value under fertility level treatment F2 was compared to other treatment during both the year experimentation.','Root, Nutrients, protein, Moisture, Fertility and wheat','Most suitable treatment moisture regimes at 1.0 IW/CPE ratio andAmong the fertility level, application of 75% RDF by inorganic fertilizer + 25% RDN by FYM for root studies as well as nitrogen, phosphorus, potassium and protein of wheat under late sown condition with 6 cm irrigation water.','INTRODUCTION \r\nWheat grown worldwide is hexaploid bread wheat, with most of the remaining 5% being tetraploid durum wheat. Small amounts of other wheat species (einkorn, emmer, spelt) are still grown in some regions including Spain, Turkey, the Balkans, and the Indian subcontinent (Shewry, 2009). The world population is increase 74 million per year, which will accumulation to approximately 2.4 billion additional people by 2050. Global demand for crop calories is expected to double between 2005 and 2050 (Tilman et al. 2011). In India, it’s cultivated in almost all parts with majority in Indo-Gangatic plains and has an area of 31.62 million hectares with production of 109.52 million tones and productivity of 3460 Kg ha-1 during 2021-22 (Anonymous, 2022). The crop is sensitive to variation in environmental conditions for better emergence, development and anther is highly vulnerable to high temperature that affected the partitioning of biomass from vegetative organs (Mukherjee, 2012). The optimum time of sowing for wheat crop in India is fortnight of November but any situation delay sowing after November, decreased the yield potential of wheat by 1-1.5% per day. The delay in sowing of crop mainly because of late harvest of paddy crop, delay in field operation and climate changes etc. (Singh et al. 2021).In India the demand for nutrient resources particularly N,P and K is exceeding the supply and the competition for this scarce resources is becoming intense in agriculture. Nitrogen is the key input amongst all primary nutrients that’s directly involved in plant photosynthetic system. This is important for all recommended agronomic practices and therefore efficient utilization of nitrogen is essential for wheat. Imbalance and improper time of use of nitrogen fertilizer warrants their judicious use to maximized fertilizer use efficiency. Recovery of added nitrogen fertilizer if only 50% or less most of arable soils owing to vitalization, leaching and dinitrification losses (Mukherjee, 2019).\r\nMATERIAL AND METHODS\r\nA field experiment was conducted during the winter season (Rabi) 2019-20 and 2021 at agronomy research farm of Acharya Narendra Dave University of Agriculture and Technology, Kumarganj, Ayodhya (UP). This site has sub-tropical climate of indo Gangatic alluvial plain zone having alluvial calcareous soil and located at 26°47N latitude and 82°12E longitude with an altitude of 113 m above the mean sea level. The mean value of minimum and maximum temperature 5.3 and 24.2 recorded during the growing seasons. The mean value minimum and maximum 39.5 and 85.2 % of relative humidity during growing season of wheat. The total rainfall 158 mm but no rainfall during second year crop growing season, respectively. The experiment were laid out in split plot design having three moisture regimes i.e. Irrigation at 0.8 IW/CPE ratio (I1), Irrigation at 1.0 IW/CPE ratio (I2) and irrigation at 1.2 IW/CPE ratio (I3) with 6 cm depth of each irrigation were allotted as main plot and four fertility level i.e.100% RDF by inorganic fertilizer (F1), 75% RDF by inorganic fertilizer + 25% RDN by FYM (F2), 50% RDF by inorganic fertilizer + 50% RDN by FYM (F3) and 25% RDF by inorganic fertilizer + 75% RDN by FYM (F4) kept as sub plot. The experiment was replicated three times on silty loam in texture soil and medium in fertility status having pH (8.32 and 8.26), organic carbon (0.31 and 0.32%), EC (0.28 and 0.30) dsm-1, available nitrogen (185 and 189 kg ha-1), available phosphorus (16.20 and 16.30 kg ha-1) and available potassium (282 and 284 kg ha-1). The what variety of ‘PBW-373’ was sown 4 × 5 m under experimental field using seed rate of 125 kg ha-1 by seed drill cum fertilizer. The recommended dose of fertilizer 120 kg ha-1 nitrogen, 60 kg ha-1 phosphorus and 40 kg ha-1 potassium but some amount of nitrogen given by FYM as per treatments. Root were sample at wheat growing season. Each sampling area was 40 cm in length (perpendicular to the rows, providing access to plant in two rows) and 40 cm in width (parallel to the rows). The root with soil were then transferred to a 100 mesh nylon bag and submerged in water for 1 hr. Any remaining soil was then washed from the root using a low pressure garden hose, and the clean roots were transferred to a sieve 0.25 mm2 mesh suspended in a through partially filled with water. Nutrient content in grain and straw of wheat crop at harvest was estimation separately from the selected plant of each plot. Oven dried plant sample were ground with the help of Willy mill grinder. The uptake of nitrogen, phosphorus and potassium by the wheat crop was calculated by the following formula. \r\nUptake of nutrient (kg ha^(-1) )=\r\n (Nutrient content (%)×Yield(kg ha^(-1)))/100\r\nThe grain samples of wheat were analyzed for their nitrogen content by modified micro-Kjeldhal’s method. Nitrogen content of grains was multiplied by conservation factor (6.25) to get total crude protein content (AOAC, 1960).\r\n Protein content (%) = Nitrogen content (%) × 6.25\r\nRESULT AND DISCUSSION\r\nData on root studies characters viz. root length (cm), Fresh weight of root (g) and Dry weight of root (g), as influenced significantly by moisture regimes and Fertility level of wheat are presented in Table 1. It clearly reveals that the rate of growth of root was maximum rate of growth was observed during 60 to 90 DAS. The progressive increase in root length continued till maturity. The moisture regimes significantly influence of the all root studies at 60 and 90 DAS was under observed treatment I2, which was at per I3 and highly significant I1. The deepest root length (20.90 and 20.98 cm) and (36.34 and 36.68 cm), fresh weight of root (17.19 and 17.14 g) (42.14 and 42.20 g) and dry weight of root (2.74 and 2.82 g) and (7.06 and 7.49 g) at 60 and 90 DAS was recorded under the I2 followed by I3 and I1 treatment of wheat crop both the year data. The fertility level significantly affected the all root studies at 60 and 90 DAS was found to be superior under observed F2. However, followed by highly significant over with the under treatment of F1, F3 and F4. The above same trend of root studies deepest root length was recorded (20.72 and 20.97) and (36.12 and 36.52), fresh weight of root (17.17 and 17.44 g) (42.02 and 42.82 g) and dry weight of root (2.72 and 2.81 g) (7.24 and 7.47 g) at 60 and 90 DAS stage respectively with the treatment of F2, followed by F1, F3 and the lowest root length was recorded with F4 treatment both the year of data. These finding are supporting by Pal et al. (2020).\r\nThe nitrogen content (%) in grain along with straw and protein (%) in grain did not influenced significantly but nitrogen uptake significantly affected by different moisture regimes and fertility level of wheat are presented in Table 2. However, the maximum nitrogen content 1.52 and 1.53 (%) and uptake 71.64 and 73.19 in grain 30.96 and 31.57 kg ha-1 in straw and protein 9.52 and 9.58% in grain was recorded under the treatment I2 followed by I3 and I1 of wheat crop. In fertility level maximum nitrogen content 1.55 and 1.55 (%) and uptake 72.94 and 74.59 in grain, 31.51 and 32.21 in straw as well as protein 9.67 and 9.71% in grain was noted with F2 followed by F1, F3 and F4 during both the years of experimentation. These also reported by Seth et al. (2019; Rizk and Sheriff (2014) respectively.\r\nThe phosphorus content (%) in grain along and straw did not influenced significantly but phosphorus uptake significantly affected by different moisture regimes and fertility level of wheat are presented in Table 3. However, the maximum phosphorus content (%) 0.37 in grain, 0.11 in straw and uptake (kg ha-1) 17.19 and 17.57 in grain and 6.98 and 7.12 straw was recorded under the treatment I2 followed by I3 and I1 of wheat crop. In fertility level maximum phosphorus content (%) 0.37 in grain, 0.12 in straw and uptake (kg ha-1) 17.51 and 17.93 in grain,7.11 and 7.26 in straw was noted with F2 followed by F1, F3 and F4 during both the years of experimentation. The also similar finding Kumar et al. (2018); Pandey et al. (2017), respectively. The potassium content (%) in grain along and straw did not influenced significantly but phosphorus uptake significantly affected by different moisture regimes and fertility level of wheat are presented in Table 4. However, the maximum potassium content (%) 0.33 in grain, 1.36 and 1.37 in straw and uptake (kg ha-1) 15.47 and 15.81 in grain and 84.43 and 86.09 straw was recorded under the treatment I2 followed by I3 and I1 of wheat crop.\r\nIn fertility level maximum potassium content (%) 0.33 and 0.34 in grain, 1.39 and 1.40 in straw and uptake (kg ha-1) 15.75 and 16.13 in grain, 85.95 and 87.84 in straw was noted with F2 followed by F1, F3 and F4 during both the years of experimentation. These are reported that Hingonia et al. (2018); Yadav et al. (2018); Paswan et al. (2014) respectively.','Ankit Kumar, A.K. Singh, Vishal Singh, Ravi Verma and Kuldeep Singh (2022). Influence of Moisture Regimes and Fertility Level on Root and Qualitative Studies of Wheat (Triticum aestivum L.) under Late Sown condition. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 14(2): 1559-1562.'),(5097,'125','Effect of various Maize Crop Residue Management Practices and Fertility Levels on Physiological Growth Parameters of Direct Seeded Rice in Rice-maize Sequence\r\n\r\n','Billa Suresh Kumar*, M. Martin Luther, K. Chandrasekhar, P. Venkata Subbaiah and K. Jayalalitha','268 Effect of various Maize Crop Residue Management Practices and Fertility Levels on Physiological Growth Parameters of Direct Seeded Rice in Rice-maize Sequence Billa Suresh Kumar.pdf','',1,'The present investigation was carried out during kharif season of 2020-21 on a sandy clay loam soil at the Agricultural College Farm, Bapatla to study the effect of various maize residue management practices and fertility levels on physiological growth parameters of direct seeded rice. The experiment was laid out in split-plot design with four maize residue management techniques (M1: Exportation of maize stover, M2: In-situ burning of maize stover (farmers practice), M3: Mulching of maize stover with rotary mulcher and M4: Incorporation of maize stover with rotovator) as main plot treatments and three fertility levels (100% RDF, 75% RDF and 50% RDF) as sub plot treatments. Mean values for maize crop residue management practices revealed that CGR and RGR only at 30-60 DAS of direct seeded rice were maximum with incorporation of maize stover with rotovator (M4), but however it was comparable with mulching maize stover with rotary mulcher (M3). Mean values for fertility levels revealed that highest CGR and SPAD values of direct seeded rice were recorded with 100% RDF (S1). Thus, incorporation of maize stover with rotovator (M4) with 100% RDF (S1) is an optimum and sustainable approach to enhance the physiological growth parameters of direct seeded rice in rice-maize system.','Maize crop residue, Fertility levels, CGR, RGR and Direct seeded rice','Based on the above results and discussion, it can be concluded that incorporation of maize stover with rotovator (M4) and application of 100% RDF (S1) were found to be the most effective and sustainable approach to enhance the physiological growth parameters of direct seeded rice in rice-maize system. ','INTRODUCTION\r\nRice (Oryza sativa L.)-Maize (Zea mays L.) system is seen as one of the potential alternatives of rice-pulse systems. Growing demand from poultry sector and tightening of the world export-import market justifies inclusion of maize in the rice-based cropping systems and currently rice-maize (RM) is one of the most important cropping system of the country. Overall in India, rice and maize production was 122.27, 31.51 Million tonnes from the area 45.07, 9.86 Million ha with the productivity of 2713, 3195 kg ha-1, respectively (Directorate of Economics and Statistics, 2021). \r\nHigh-yielding Rice-Maize system extract more nutrients, particularly N, P, or K, than do rice-rice systems or rice-wheat (Yadvinder Singh et al., 2005). Assuming 7 Mg ha−1 of rice yield and 8 Mg ha−1 of maize yield, rice-maize system will remove around 519 kg NPK ha−1, when all the residues are removed from the field (Setiyono et al., 2010). The relation between removal of stover to C returned to the system has to be considered to address economic concerns regarding increases in nutrient removal rates and replacement costs specially for nutrients such as N, P and K. Timsina et al. (2010) reported that in rice-maize crop systems, a very little crop residue is returned to the soil and other organic inputs are low, which results in the loss of soil organic. India generates 516 mt of total crop residue (CR) annually, whereof, maize contribute 110 mt, respectively (Sahu et al., 2021). \r\nManagement of stover after maize harvests poses an enormous challenge to all maize farmers around the globe. The maize stover is most often harvested in dried condition and packaged in large heaps to use as fodder in later date or in lean seasons. Now a days, the use of maize stalk as animals fodder gradually decreasing and instances of on field burning of stover increasing due to non availability of agriculture labor for timely harvesting, increase in transportation costs, lack of sufficient time to take up next season crops. Instead of resorting to such practices, if managed to slash, shred and spread in the field evenly using machinery, this help in protecting soil and land resources from erosion. Fertilizer application is one of the largest expenses for farmers growing cereal crops and yet much of the N, P and K used to supplement crop needs are lost to the environment due to the low nutrient use efficiency of cereal crops. Over or under N, P and K fertilizer application can lead to a reduction in crop yield, in addition to creating conditions which favor nutrient losses to the environment, poor soil quality and plant nutrition. Therefore, there is a need for improved nutrient management strategies, in particular N, P and K under different scenarios like removed, burning, surface retention or incorporated residue management to properly replace nutrients, ensuring adequate plant nutrition and at least sustained grain yield. The present investigation was therefore undertaken to study the effect of various maize residue management practices and fertility levels on physiological growth parameters of direct seeded rice in rice-maize sequence.\r\nMATERIALS AND METHODS\r\nAn experiment was conducted with four maize residue management practices M1: Exportation of maize stover, M2: In-situ burning of maize stover (farmers practice), M3: Mulching maize stover with rotary mulcher and M4: Incorporation of maize stover with rotovator) as main plot treatments and three fertility levels (100% RDF, 75% RDF and 50% RDF) as sub plot treatments which was replicated thrice. It was carried out on sandy clay loam soils of Agricultural College Farm, Bapatla during kharif, 2020-21 and the soil was slightly alkaline in nature, low in organic carbon and low in available nitrogen, medium in available phosphorus and high in available potassium. During the crop growth period, the weekly mean maximum temperature ranged from 29.8 to 34.0°C with an average of 32°C. The weekly mean minimum temperature ranged from 18.2 to 26.5°C with an average of 24.4°C. A total rainfall of 847.2 mm was received during the crop growth period. The test variety used for sowing was BPT-5204 and crop was sown at 20 cm and 15 cm inter and intra row distance, respectively and adopted all the standard package of practices. Application of nutrients was done as per the treatments in the form of urea, single super phosphate and muriate of potash respectively. Entire quantity of phosphorus and half dose of potassium was applied at the time of sowing. Remaining dose of potassium were applied at PI stage of the crop. After harvest of maize cobs, residues of the maize crop were retained. Maize residues were added as per treatment in the four main plots. In residue removal plots, the residues were completely removed after harvest of the crop. Ninety five days were allowed for decomposition of crop residues during both the years of experimentation. The data on CGR, RGR and SPAD values were recorded as per standard procedures. Statistical analysis of all the data are carried out following the analysis of variance technique for split plot design as outlined by Panse and Sukhatame (1978).\r\nRESULTS AND DISCUSSION\r\nEffect of maize crop residue management practices and fertility levels on Crop growth rate. The calculated mean data related to crop growth rate (CGR) at successive growth stages 30-60, 60-90 and 90-120 DAS as affected by maize crop residue management practices and fertility levels have been summarized and presented in Table 1. The interaction at all the stages of observations was found to be non-significant. \r\nHighest CGR values were recorded with incorporation of maize stover with rotovator (M4) but however, it was found on par with mulching of maize stover with rotary mulcher (M3) which in turn on parity with In-situ burning of maize stover (farmers practice) (M2) at all stages of observations except at 60-90 DAS. This might be due to more taller plants, higher number of tillers and more drymatter production per unit area and higher leaf area index (LAI) could have been the reason for higher crop growth rate values. These observations are confirmed by the findings of Vijayaprabhakar et al. (2020); Arvind Kumar et al. (2016). \r\nWith respect to fertility levels, at all stages of observation (30-60, 60-90 and 90-120 DAS), crop growth rate increased with increasing the fertility levels. The highest crop growth rate of rice was recorded with application of 100% RDF (S1), but, however it was found on par with application of 75% RDF (S2) except at 30-60 DAS. The lowest CGR values was noticed with 50% RDF (S3) which was significantly inferior to other treatments. This might be due to high LAI at higher fertility levels functioning during tillering to flowering resulted in high CGR that caused further increase in dry matter accumulation during the reproductive period leading high crop productivity. The results obtained in the present investigation are in line with the findings of Huang et al. (2008); Mondal et al. (2013).\r\nEffect of maize crop residue management practices and fertility levels on Relative growth rate. Data pertaining to relative growth rate of rice at different growth intervals of crop viz., 30-60, 60-90 DAS and 90-120 DAS as affected by maize crop residue management practices and fertility levels are presented in Table 1. A glance at the data indicates that RGR was non significantly influenced by maize crop residue management practices except at 30-60 DAS, whereas the fertility levels and interaction effect was also found to be non significant.\r\nDuring 30-60 DAS, highest relative growth rate was observed with incorporation of maize stover with rotovator (M4) which was on par with In-situ burning of maize stover (M2) and significantly differed from rest of the treatments. Mulching of maize stover with rotary mulcher (M3) was on par with exportation of maize stover (M1). The lowest relative growth rate values were recorded with M1.\r\nEffect of maize crop residue management practices and fertility levels on SPAD values. The data pertaining to SPAD chlorophyll meter reading at 30, 60, 90 DAS and at harvest are presented in Table 1. The review manifested an increasing trend with the advance of plant growth till 90 DAS, followed by decreasing trend with the lowest SPAD readings at the time of harvesting. The lower values of SPAD during the time of harvest might be the result of degradation of leaf chlorophyll. \r\nData reveals that, different fertility levels influenced the SPAD values significantly, whereas different maize crop residue management practices and their interaction were non-significant at all growth stages of the crop. \r\nSPAD meter readings differed due to graded doses of fertilizer treatments at all the stages of observations. At all stages of the growth, the highest SPAD meter readings were recorded in 100% RDF (S1) treatment which was found significantly superior to other treatments except at harvest stage. Application of 75% RDF (S2) recorded the next best treatment followed by 50% RDF (S3). The lowest SPAD meter readings were recorded with 50% RDF (S3). The maximum chlorophyll content in leaf in S1 treatment might be due to inorganic fertilizer nitrogen which in turn improved the chlorophyll content in the leaf by improving nutrient uptake by the plant. The current findings are also supported by Prakash and Mahajan (2016).\r\n','Billa Suresh Kumar, M. Martin Luther, K. Chandrasekhar, P. Venkata Subbaiah and K. Jayalalitha (2022). Effect of various Maize Crop Residue Management Practices and Fertility Levels on Physiological Growth Parameters of Direct Seeded Rice in Rice-maize Sequence. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 14(2): 1563-1566.'),(5098,'125','Effect of Nitrogen and Biofertilizers on Growth Parameter of Okra \r\n(Abelmoschus esculentus L.)\r\n','Devender Kumar* and Sanjay Kumar','269 Effect of Nitrogen and Biofertilizers on Growth Parameter of Okra Sanjay Kumar.pdf','',1,'The challenges of study was that due to in discriminate use of inorganic fertilizer natural fertility of the soil has been deteriorated and leads to contamination of soil, water and food and reduced crop yield, soil acidity and nutrient imbalance. Thus there is an increasing awareness throughout the world about the integrated supply of the nutrient.\r\nPresent investigation was conducted at research farm of the Department of Vegetable Science, CCS Haryana Agricultural University, Hisar, during spring - summer season of the year 2019-20, with an objective to understand the use of nitrogen and biofertilizers on growth and yield of okra crop. Fourteen different treatments with three replications was laid out in a randomized block design in plot size of 3.0 × 1.8 m2. The treatments comprised of Nitrogen, Azotobacter and PSB including control. Result revealed that 100 % RDN (Inorganic) + Azotobacter + PSB resulted minimum days to 50% flowering (39.33) and plant height at harvest (91.93 cm), number of nodes per plant (23.60), internodal length (6.90 cm), thickness of main stem (9.63 cm) and harvest index (49.59) was recorded maximum.\r\n','Okra, Nitrogen, Biofertilizer, Treatments and Yield','From the above findings it is concluded that 100 % RDN (Inorganic) + Azotobacter + PSB resulted minimum days to 50% flowering (39.33) and plant height at harvest (91.93 cm), number of nodes per plant (23.60), internodal length (6.90 cm), thickness of main stem (9.63 cm) and harvest index (49.59) was recorded maximum so for better growth of okra without deteriorating the soil health application of inorganic fertilizers along with biofertilizers dose treatment i.e (T1) should be adopted. Therefore it will also help in reducing the recommended dose of inorganic fertilizer.','INTRODUCTION\r\nOkra [Abelmoschus esculentus (L.) Moench] is native of Tropical Africa and grows all through the tropics and subtropics. Okra or lady finger which is also known as ‘Bhindi’ is one of the important vegetables of India. Plant is herbaceous annual green, erect included in family Malvaceae and fruits are immature tender. The stem and mature fruits containing crude fibre is used in the paper industry. The stems and roots are used for clearing the cane juice in preparation of ‘gur’. Goiter is also controlled by high iodine content of fruits. Okra is said to be a very useful against spermatorrhoea, chronic dysentery and genito-urinary disorders (Nadkarni, 1927). Nitrogen fertilizer play a vital role for increasing growth, fruit yield and quality of okra. In most of the Indian soil nitrogen is found to be deficient. It is a constituents of nucleic acid, protein and chlorophyll etc. and found to be associated with carbohydrate utilization, supply of amino acid which is required for bio-synthesis of protein and protein type enzyme, which result in better development of crop and ultimately the higher yield (Mani and Ramanathan 1980; Singh 1995). The soil of Rajasthan are sandy and having high pH and low N content, so applications of nitrogen is necessary for proper growth and development of plants (Middha et al., 2015). \r\nBiofertilizers release growth promoting substance and vitamins which help to maintain soil fertility. They act as antagonist and suppresses the incidence of soil borne plant pathogens and in this way, they help in control of diseases. Nitrogen fixing, cellulolytic and phosphate mobilizing micro-organisms in biofertilizer increase the availability of plant nutrient in soil and thus, promote the agricultural production and farming system. Application of bio-fertilizer results in mineral and water uptake, root development, nitrogen fixation and vegetative growth. Some biofertilizer (e.g. Azotobacter sp., Rhizobium, BGA) stimulates the production of growth promoting substances like vitamin-B complex, Indole acetic acid (IAA) and Gibberellic acids (GA3) etc. (Siddiqui et al., 2014). The presence of Azotobacter spp. in the soil has beneficial effect on plants and the abundance of these bacteria was related to many factors like soil physical and chemical (e.g. organic matter, pH, soil moisture, temperature) and microbiological properties. Its quantity varies as per the depth of the soil profile. Azotobacter is abundant in the rhizosphere of plant than in the surrounding of soil and this abundance depend upon the crop species (Jnawali et al., 2015). Vegetables and the vegetable system show that vegetable crops respond well to the supply of nutrients through organic fertilizers and chemical fertilizers (Kumar et al., 2022).\r\nMETHODOLOGY\r\nThe present investigation was conducted at research farm of the Department of Vegetable Science, CCS Haryana Agricultural University, Hisar, during spring - summer season of the year 2019-20. The experiment was laid out under randomized block design with three replications. The experiment consisted of 14 treatments viz. T1: 100 % RDN (Inorganic) + Azotobacter + PSB, T2: 75 % RDN (Inorganic) + Azotobacter + PSB, T3: 100 % RDN through FYM + Azotobacter + PSB , T4: 75 % RDN through FYM + Azotobacter + PSB, T5: 100 % RDN through Vermicompost + Azotobacter + PSB, T6: 75 % RDN through Vermicompost + Azotobacter + PSB, T7: 100 % RDN (Inorganic), T8: 75 % RDN (Inorganic) , T9: 100 % RDN through FYM, T10: 75 % RDN through FYM, T11: 100 % RDN through Vermicompost, T12: 75 % RDN through Vermicompost, T13: Azotobacter + PSB, T14: Control. Obtained findings were analyzed with suitable statistically for interpretation of results.\r\nRESULTS AND DISCUSSION\r\nEffect of nitrogen and biofertilizers on growth parameters of Plant. The results presented in Table 1 obtained on growth parameters revealed that the minimum days to50 %flowering was recorded in T1 (39.33) followed by T2 (39.67). While, maximum days to 50% flowering (44.00) was recorded under control. The reason behind earliest 50% flowering might be due to higher dose offer tilizer and biofertilizer applied on treated plots as compared to other treatments. The nutrients received from inorganic sources by plants lead to better earliness as compared to absolute control. Earliness might be due to growth promoting substances produced by inorganic sources which had influenced physiological activity of plant. Muhammad et al. (2001), Bhadoria et al. (2007) in tomato and Singh et al. (2012); Tyagi et al. (2016) also reported increase in 50 % flowering in okra.\r\nThe maximum plant height at harvest (91.93 cm) was recorded under T1 followed by T2 (91.33 cm). Whereas, T14 reported for minimum plant height at harvest (62.80 cm). This might be because of better nutritional environment in root zone for growth and development of plant by the applications of nitrogen. Nitrogen is considered as one of the major nutrient required for proper growth and development of the plant. It is also a main constituent of amino acids, proteins, protoplasm, cell nucleus, chlorophyll and many other metabolic products. These results of present investigation are in agreement with those of Manga and Muhammad (2006); Firoz (2009); Sharma and Choudhary (2011); Singh et al. (2012); Choudhary et al. (2015); Tripathi et al. (2017) in okra and Baba et al. (2018) in tomato.\r\nThe maximum number of nodes per plant (23.60) was recorded in T1 followed by T2 (22.47). Whereas, the minimum number of nodes per plant (15.80) was recorded with control. The number of nodes per plant and intermodal length decreases with decrease in nitrogen application. The evidence of increased as simulation of protoplasm resulting in greater cell division, formation of more tissues and vigour of the plant. The result of present study confirms findings of Fayaz et al. (1999) Firoz (2009); Singh et al. (2012); Kumar et al. (2013) in okra who reported pronounced effect of nitrogen on number of nodes per plant and intermodal length. \r\nFurther, results from Table 2 clearly shows that maximum intermodal length (6.90 cm) was recorded in T1 followed by T2 (6.67 cm). Whereas, the minimum intermodal length (4.83 cm) was recorded with control. The maximum thickness of main stem (9.63 cm) was recorded under T1 followed by T2 (9.10 cm), whereas, T14 reported for minimum thickness of main stem (6.85 cm). The thickness of main stem decreased significantly with decrease in nitrogen application. These results are indistinguishable with the findings of Singh et al. (2005) in okra.\r\nThe maximum value of harvest index (49.59) was recorded under T1 followed by T2 (49.47). Whereas, T14 reported for minimum value of harvest index (37.29). This may be due to increase in number of fruits/plot at higher nitrogen application which results in higher competition among the plants. Brar et al. (1993); Kumar (2017); Vats (2011) in fenugreek reported similar results due to higher dry matter production resulted in larger source for photosynthesis and thereby more translocation of photosynthates to sink.\r\n','Devender Kumar and Sanjay Kumar (2022). Effect of Nitrogen and Biofertilizers on Growth Parameter of Okra (Abelmoschus esculentus L.). Biological Forum – An International Journal, 14(2): 1567-1570.'),(5099,'134','Physiochemical characteristics of the Soil and their Correlation with Leaf Fodder Quality Parameters of Grewia optiva Drummond of the Himachal Pradesh','H.P. Sankhyan*, Jyoti Dhiman, Neerja Rana, Krishan Chand and Prachi','1 Physiochemical characteristics of the Soil and their Correlation with Leaf Fodder Quality Parameters of Grewia optiva Drummond of the Himachal Pradesh Jyoti Dhiman.pdf','',1,'This study was conducted during May and November, 2019 and 2020 to determine the Pearson correlation coefficient between fodder characteristics of Grewia optiva and physicochemical characteristics of the soil collected underneath selected populations of Grewia optiva Drummond. A significant difference in pH, OC, EC, N, P, K and bulk density was observed. The nine populations viz., Kothi kanwal (Solan), Uncha gaon (Solan), Neri kalan (Solan), Machair (Sirmaur), Jajjer (Sirmaur), Balla (Kangra), Jhinjkari (Hamirpur), Bhaleth (Hamirpur) and Barthi (Bilaspur) showed >24%crude protein. A significant positive correlation was recorded between soil pH and Leaf dry matter and crude protein. The electrical conductivity, Organic carbon and Nitrogen showed a positive correlation with crude protein and ether extract. A negative correlation observed between bulk density and fodder characteristics. Phosphorus showed a positive and significant impact on the leaf dry matter and ether extract. An insignificant correlation obtained between the potassium and fodder characteristics. The correlation developed between fodder and soil characteristics will help in identification and selection of best nutritive strains of Grewia optiva to get improved genetic gain and production of quality planting material.','Grewia optiva, crude protein, soil nutrients, population, forage, correlation coefficient.','The soil of district Solan, Sirmaur, Kangra, Hamirpur and Bilaspur district noted rich in soil nutrients. Mandi and Una district delineated with poor soil and leaf nutrient characteristics. The analysis on fodder characteristics of selected populations of Grewia optiva Drummond in Himachal Pradesh, India unveiled that nine Populations viz., Kothi kanwal (Solan), Uncha gaon (Solan), Neri kalan (Solan), Machair (Sirmaur), Jajjer (Sirmaur), Balla (Kangra), Jhinjkari (Hamirpur), Bhaleth (Hamirpur) and Barthi population of Bilaspur district reported with highest percentage (>24 per cent) for crude protein, as crude protein (CP) content is most important criterion for judging feed and fodder quality. The correlation developed between fodder characteristics and soil characteristics will help in quantify the impact of different soil characteristics on fodder characteristics and help in selection of best nutritive populations, further improvement and fertilizers recommendation dose. ','INTRODUCTION\r\nGrewia optiva Known locally as Bhimal/Beul/Bihul, it is found in the subtropical western Himalayas. This species shows its existence at the edges/elevations of agricultural terraces rather than in a forest area (Thakur et al., 2004; Thakur et al., 2005). It is well distributed from 500 to 2500 m in India, Pakistan and Nepal (Semwal et al., 2002). In north-western India, this species is common in the foothills of Jammu and Kashmir, Himachal Pradesh and Uttarakhand for its attributes such as palatability, ease of propagation, faster growth and forage yield (Mukherjee et al., 2018). Leaves of Grewia optivaare excellent forage for livestock, especially in winter (the lean season), when there is no alternative to green forage (Katoch et al., 2017). It has more than 70% potential digestibility of DM and effective degradability (56.7%) reported by Singh et al. (1989). The bark fibres are used to make sturdy ropes, Kurna (backpacks) and Kandi (baskets), purses, handbags, chappals, mats, carpets, etc. and these products founded to be appropriate, sustainable and beneficial for farmers in the central and western highlands of Nepal (Pandey et al., 2017). The bark extract also has medicinal properties as it is used to treat indigestion, gastric problems (Radha et al., 2021). Wood is used for making handles, shoulder pads, bed frames, pallets, tools and axe handles. Its young branches are used to make baskets (Gill et al., 2016). \r\nSoil is comprised of certain kind of chemical, physical, mineralogical and biological properties (Thakre et al., 2012). The knowledge of physiochemical properties viz., organic carbon, available Nitrogen (N), Phosphorus (P2O5), Potassium (K2O), pH, electrical conductivity, soil texture and bulk density of soil is necessary to find the available nutrient status in soil and to develop specific fertilizer directions (Sumithra et al., 2013). The soil organic matter contents, electrical conductivity, and pH regulates not only macronutrients (N, P, and K) but also micronutrients (Zn, Fe, B, and Cu) for better uptake in plants (Havlin 2020). High soil pH usually results in the precipitation of nutrients. On the other hand, an increase in soil electrical conductivity due to higher water-soluble salts changes the osmotic potential of the soil solution. This change in the osmotic potential of soil solution resulted in lower nutrient levels in the plants. Furthermore, limited organic matter in soil decreases microbial proliferation and causes alteration in C: N ratio, disturbing the available nutrients pool in the soil (Weil and Brady 2017). Also, the distribution of soil particles according to their size i.e., soil texture plays an imperative role in managing soil fertility status for cultivation of all crops (Chaudhari et al., 2013). \r\nThe soil Nitrogen (N) is one of the most important biological elements for plants, agricultural crops and forest trees as it has an irreplaceable role in organ construction, material metabolism, fruit yield and the quality of fruit tree formation (Bai et al., 2016). Phosphorus (P) present in soil is essential for various tree growth functions (Jonard et al., 2015). Potassium (K) is used for photosynthesis, fruit quality, flowering, protein formation and disease reduction (Valente et al., 2012). It has a high mobility in plants and plays an important role in the regulation of cellular osmotic pressure and in the balance of cations and anions in the cytoplasm (Hu et al., 2016a). Therefore, considering the importance of the physicochemical properties of the soil mentioned above, the present study was conducted to establish a correlation between the physicochemical characteristics of the soil and important fodder quality parameters (proximate principles) of Grewia optiva Drummond in Himachal Pradesh. This study will help to determine the optimal soil nutrient conditions for obtaining good yield and high-quality nutritious strains of Grewia optiva Drummond.\r\n\r\nMATERIALS AND METHODS\r\nStudy area: The present study on physiochemical characteristics of soil and leaf fodder characteristics of different populations of Grewia optiva Drummond was carried out during the month of May and November, 2019 and 2020. Total thirty-five population of 20 cm–30 cm diameter class (five population in each district) (Fig. 1) were selected from seven districts of Himachal Pradesh i.e., Kangra, Mandi, Bilaspur, Solan, Sirmaur, Una and Hamirpur, taking into account the rich genetic diversity and phenotypically superior plant populations of Grewia optiva. The soil samples were collected from 15 cm–30 cm depth underneath the selected populations of Grewia optiva Drummond and leaf samples were taken from upper, middle and lower portion of the crown. The soil and leaf samples were collected in two consecutive years 2019 and 2020, twice in year i.e., in the month of May and November. In 2019, first soil and leaf samples were collected during the Month of May, when this species was in leafing and flowering stage and second samples were taken at six months interval in the month of November, when the species was in the seed ripening and fodder lopping stage. Similarly, in the year 2020, two consecutive samples were collected in month of May and November from the same selected sites and depth (15 cm–30 cm) respectively, from all thirty-five populations. The pooled data from two years presented for statistical analysis and evaluation in the year 2021 under the present investigation. The fodder quality traits viz., leaf dry matter content (%), Crude protein (%), Crude fibre (%), Ether extract (%), NFE(%), Total ash (%) of these selected populations were recorded simultaneously with soil characteristics. Further the Pearson correlation coefficient was established between physiochemical characteristics of soil and fodder quality traits of selected populations. \r\nSample collection: For determination of soil physiochemical characteristics; soil samples were collected from (15 cm–30 cm depth underneath the selected populations of Grewia optiva Drummond. The samples were analysed using standard methods (Table 1) under the laboratory conditions of Soil- science, University of Horticulture and Forestry, Nauni, Solan (HP).\r\nFor determination of fodder characteristics viz., leaf dry matter (LDM), crude protein (CP), crude fibre (CF), ether extract (EE), total ash (TA) and nitrogen free extract (NFE) the leaf samples were collected from lower, middle and upper portion of the crown. The collected leaf samples were analysed under laboratory condition of Tree Improvement and Genetic Resources, University of Horticulture and Forestry, Nauni, Solan (HP) using following standard methods: \r\nLeaf dry matter content (%) :(Weight of dried sample)/(Weight of fresh sample) ×100\r\nCrude protein (%): It was estimated by Microkjeldhal method (Sankaram, 1966). For the crude protein estimation, nitrogen content of leaves estimated and estimated Nitrogen content was multiplied by standard factor of 6.25.\r\nCrude protein (%) = N (%) × 6.25\r\n Ether extract (%): It was extracted by using petroleum ether (AOAC, 1995).\r\nEther extract = (Wt of fat)/(original weight of Sample )×100\r\n Where; Weight of fat = (wt. of thimble + sample) –(weight of thimble + sample after extraction)\r\nCrude fibre (%): It was estimated by acid alkali digestion (ashing) method described by AOAC (1995).\r\nCrude fibre (%) = (weight of crude fiber )/(original weight of sample )×100\r\nTotal ash (%): It was estimated by using the procedure given by AOAC (1995).\r\nTotal ash (%) =(weight of ash )/(original weight of sample )×100\r\nNitrogen free extract (%): It was determined by subtracting the sum of crude protein, crude fiber, ether extract and total ash content from 100 (AOAC, 1995).\r\nRESULTS AND DISCUSSION\r\nA. Physiochemical characteristics of soil samples collected underneath the selected populations of Grewia optiva Drummond\r\nThere was significant difference was observed in pH, OC, EC, bulk density and in macronutrients (N, P, K) within selected population of each district (Table 2). These results on soil physiochemical characteristics have been reported by Sankhyan et al. (2021). The soil of district Solan, Sirmaur, Kangra, Hamirpur and Bilaspur district noted rich in soil nutrients. Mandi and Una district delineated with poor soil nutrients. Soil of different texture were founded underneath populations of different districts (Table 2) viz. 50% of soil texture observed as sandy loamy and sandy clay loamy followed by clay loamy (20%), gravelly loamy (10%), loamy (10%) and remaining silty clay loamy (5%) and silty loam (5%). The tree has a capacity to grow in almost any type of soil but sandy loam with proper moisture is most suitable for its proper growth (Singh et al., 2018).\r\nB. Fodder quality characteristics of selected populations of Grewia optiva Drummond\r\nCrude protein (CP) content is most important criterion for judging feed and fodder quality. The earlier studies indicated that some tree leaves are nutritionally desirable for their crude protein contents, since it is the most important nutrient (Prajapati et al., 2019). The Kothi kanwal population exhibited average 24.43 % crude protein (CP), Uncha goan population with average 24.96 % crude protein (CP), Neri Kalan with average 25.12 % crude protein, Machair population reported with average 25.02 % crude protein, Jajjer with average 24.56 % crude protein, Balla population with average 25.05 % crude protein, Jhinjkari population with average 24.98 % crude protein, Bhaleth population with average 25.11 percent crude protein and Barthi population showed average 25.15 % crude protein (Table 3). These nine populations showed crude protein percentage greater than 24 percent. This observed percentage of crude protein was more than highest as per range (17.35 -20.99 % crude protein) reported by Sankhyan and Bhagta (2016) in their study on Grewia optiva. Crude fibre was observed in range of 19.12 to 21.51 % for selected populations. The low to moderate fibre contents of browse foliage positively influenced their voluntary intake and digestibility in small ruminants (Bakshi and Wadhwa 2004) and as the percentage of crude fibre increased digestibility decreased because crude fibre is resistant to decomposition and it often envelops digestive nutrients rendering them unavailable (Maynard, 1937). The ash content was observed in range of 11.43 to 19.87 percent (Table 3). The ash content of the leaf is the inorganic residue, which provide a measure of the total amount of minerals within a leaf fodder which supplement the mineral requirement of livestock (Prajapati et al., 2019). The ether extract recorded between 4.12 to 5.67 percent and nitrogen free extract founded between 39.39 to 43.31 percent. Dry matter content was observed between range of 20.61 % (for Navami population of Una district) to 60.22 % in Jajjer population of Sirmaur District. Dry matter content is directly related to the concentration of the nutrients in it. These results are in line with the findings obtained earlier by Prajapati et al. (2020); Bhat et al. (2012); Bhagta et al. (2019) in Grewia optiva.\r\nC. Correlation between Physiochemical characteristics of soil and fodder characteristics of different populations of Grewia optiva Drummond\r\nThere was a positive correlation observed between leaf dry matter (LDM) and soil pH (Table 4). These results supported by findings of Gentili et al. (2018). Crude protein also showed strong correlation with the soil pH, similar results shown by Lee et al. (2010). Soil reaction (pH), in particular, can be considered a key variable due to its influence on many other soil proprieties and processes affecting plant growth. Indeed, microorganism activity as well as nutrients solubility and availability are some of the most important processes that depend on pH. \r\nElectrical conductivity showed positive correlation with crude protein (Table 4) similar as reported in the study of Ding et al., (2018). The electrical conductivity (EC) is an index of salt concentration and an indicator of electrolyte concentration of the solution. EC of the nutrient solution is related to the amount of ions available to plants in the root zone. There was positive correlation determined between Electrical conductivity of the soil and ether extract of fodder leaf. These results were contradictory to study of Boga et al. (2014) who reported that salinity and plants had no significant effect on ash and ether extract. \r\nOrganic carbon showed positive correlation with the crude protein (Table 4). As the soil organic carbon promotes soil structure or tilth meaning there is greater physical stability. This improves soil aeration (oxygen in the soil) and water drainage and retention, and reduces the risk of erosion and nutrient leaching. The chemical and nutritional benefits of organic matter are related to the cycling of plant nutrients and the ability of the soil to supply nutrients for plant growth. Organic matter retains plant nutrients and prevents their leaching to deeper soil layers. There was negative correlation recorded between Bulk density and leaf dry matter. The similar results given by Kobata et al. (2000). The bulk density effects soil compaction which is an important environmental problem and it causes physical degradation by adversely influencing hydraulic properties of soil and productivity parameters. It can affect root development and nutrient uptake. Increase in bulk density caused in all plants a significant decrease (p≤0.05) in dry weights of root and shoot (Parlak and Ozaslan 2011).\r\nNitrogen showed significant positive correlation with crude protein (Table 4). Similarly, Gonçalves et al. (2011); McDonald et al. (2011) reported in their study that increase in soil nitrogen effect positively crude protein and leaf biomass in Moringa oleifera. Phosphorus gave positive correlation with the leaf dry matter similar findings of increase in dry matter with phosphorus have been reported by Sokobela et al. (2022) in Moringa oleifera. As Phosphorus is important in cell division and development of new tissue, associated with complex energy transformations in the plant. It is a vital component of ATP, the \"energy unit\" of plants and essential for the general health and vigour of all plants. Potassium showed insignificant correlation with leaf fodder quality parameters. \r\n','H.P. Sankhyan, Jyoti Dhiman, Neerja Rana, Krishan Chand and Prachi (2022). Physiochemical characteristics of the Soil and their Correlation with Leaf Fodder Quality Parameters of Grewia optiva Drummond of the Himachal Pradesh. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 14(2a): 01-08.'),(5100,'134','Effect of Nitrogen, Organic Manures along with Biofertilizers on Yield Parameters of Okra (Abelmoschus esculentus L.)','Devender Kumar* and Sanjay Kumar','2 Effect of Nitrogen, Organic Manures along with Biofertilizers on Yield Parameters of Okra _Abelmoschus esculentus L._ Devender Kumar.pdf','',1,'The various challenges of study was that due to continuous use of inorganic fertilizer the natural fertility of the soil has been deteriorated and rapidly leads to contamination of soil, water and food and reduced crop yield, soil acidity and nutrient imbalance. Thus there is an increasing awareness throughout the world about the integrated supply of the nutrient.\r\nThus, the present experiment carried out, to understand the use of nitrogen, organic manures along with biofertilizers on growth and yield of okra crop. The investigation comprised of fourteen treatments with three replications and was laid out in a randomized block design in plot size of 3.0 × 1.8 m2. The treatments comprised of 100 % RDN (Inorganic) + Azotobacter + PSB including control. Result reaveled that 100 % RDN (Inorganic) + Azotobacter + PSB resulted number of picking (20.33), fruit length (6.67 cm), fruit diameter (0.49 cm), weight of fruit (6.22 g), early fruit yield (7.62 kg/plot), total fruit yield (113.02 q/ha), fruiting node (3.53), number of fruits per plant (16.60) and harvest index (46.99) was recorded for maximum.','Okra, Organic manures, Biofertilizer, Growth, Yield and Treatments.','From the above findings it is concluded that100 % RDN (Inorganic) + Azotobacter + PSB resulted maximum number of picking (20.33), fruit length (6.67 cm), fruit diameter (0.49 cm), weight of fruit (6.22 g), early fruit yield (7.62 kg/plot), total fruit yield (113.02 q/ha), fruiting node (3.53), number of fruits per plant (16.60) and harvest index (46.99) so for better yield of okra without deteriorating the soil health application of inorganic along with biofertilizers dose treatment i.e. (T1) should be adopted. The application of inorganic fertilizers with biofertilizers as help in improving the soil health and high yield by improving the soil physical and chemical property and it will also help in reducing the recommended dose of inorganic fertilizer.','INTRODUCTION\r\nOkra [Abelmoschus esculentus (L.) Moench] is native of Tropical Africa, belonged to Malvaceae family and grows all through the tropics and subtropics. It is a short duration crop and growth, yield parameters are influenced by appropriate nutrient management practices (Singh et al., 2007; Suchitra and Manivannan, 2012; Iqbal et al., 2014). The soil of Rajasthan are sandy and having high pH and low N content, so applications of nitrogen is necessary for proper growth and development of plants (Middha et al., 2015). Use of different kind of organic manures, such as vermi-compost and farm yard manure improves the soil physical properties, maintain the soil fertility and maintain soil micro-flora. As Vermi-composting is a safe and non-polluting method for recycling and disposal of organic waste by changing into organic fertilizers. It is a good form of natural manure, which is cost-effective, easy to make and effective in promoting waste-management. Its application could be one of the most attractive and economical methods of solving the problems like disposal of waste and the requirement to enhance the organic matter content of soil (Narkhede et al., 2011).\r\nIn India, mixed farming system is an integral part of crop production of farmers therefore, there is requirement of large quantity of organic matter for supplementing the nutrients. Farm yard manure (FYM) is good source of nutrient using cow dung, waste straw, cow urine and other dairy wastes. The organic manure FYM provides nutrients to the plant and by binding effect of soil aggregates, it also improves the soil texture. Organic manure increases water holding capacity, cation exchange capacity and phosphate availability of soil and also improves the fertilizer use efficiency (FUE) and increase microbial population of soil. It reduces the nitrogen lose due to slow release effect of nutrients (Tadesse et al., 2013). Test results revealed that the vermicompost was found to be the most advanced of all treatments in terms of growth and production parameter and it was followed by treatment with FYM.\r\nBiofertilizers release growth promoting substance and vitamins which help to maintain soil fertility. They act as antagonist and suppresses the incidence of soil borne plant pathogens and in this way, they help in control of diseases. Nitrogen fixing, cellulolytic and phosphate mobilizing micro-organisms in biofertilizer increase the availability of plant nutrient in soil and thus, promote the agricultural production and farming system. Application of bio-fertilizer results in mineral and water uptake, root development, nitrogen fixation and vegetative growth. Some biofertilizer (e.g. Azotobacter sp., Rhizobium, BGA) stimulates the production of growth promoting substances like vitamin-B complex, Indole acetic acid (IAA) and Gibberellic acids (GA3) etc. (Siddiqui et al., 2014). The presence of Azotobacter spp. in the soil has beneficial effect on plants and the abundance of these bacteria was related to many factors like soil physical and chemical (e.g. organic matter, pH, soil moisture, temperature) and microbiological properties. Its quantity varies as per the depth of the soil profile. Azotobacter is abundant in the rhizosphere of plant than in the surrounding of soil and this abundance depend upon the crop species (Jnawali et al., 2015). Vegetables and the vegetable system show that vegetable crops respond well to the supply of nutrients through organic fertilizers and chemical fertilizers (Kumar et al., 2022).\r\nMETHODOLOGY \r\nThe present investigation was conducted at research farm of the Department of Vegetable Science, CCS Haryana Agricultural University, Hisar, during spring - summer season of the year 2019-20, with anobjective to understand the use of organic manures along with biofertilizers on growth and yield of okra crop with variety Hisar Naveen. The experiment was laid out under randomized block design with threereplications. The experiment consisted of 14 treatments viz., T1: 100 % RDN (Inorganic) + Azotobacter + PSB, T2: 75 % RDN (Inorganic) + Azotobacter + PSB, T3: 100 % RDN through FYM + Azotobacter + PSB, T4: 75 % RDN through FYM + Azotobacter + PSB, T5: 100 % RDN through Vermicompost + Azotobacter + PSB, T6: 75 % RDN through Vermicompost + Azotobacter + PSB, T7: 100 % RDN (Inorganic), T8: 75 % RDN (Inorganic), T9: 100 % RDN through FYM, T10: 75 % RDN through FYM, T11: 100 % RDN through Vermicompost, T12: 75 % RDN through Vermicompost, T13: Azotobacter + PSB, T14: Control. Obtained findings were analyzed statistically for interpretation of results.\r\nRESULTS AND DISCUSSION\r\nEffect of organic manures and biofertilizers on yield parameters of plant. The results presented in Table 1 clearly shows that the maximum no. of picking (20.67), fruit length (7.03 cm) and fruit diameter (0.52 cm) was recorded under T1 followed by T2(20.33), (6.80 cm) and (0.49 cm) respectively. Whereas, T14 reported for minimum no. of picking (16.13), fruit length (5.23 cm) and fruit diameter (0.39 cm). It is suitable to mention here that sufficient supply of nitrogen to plants not only promotes the synthesis of food but also in successive partitioning in sink. The applications of nitrogen promote the metabolic and auxin activities in plant and ultimately results in increased fruit size and diameter of the plant. These findings are indistinguishable of those reported by Garhwal et al. (2007); Firoz (2009); Jana et al. (2010); Sajid et al. (2012); Sahu et al. (2014); Choudhary et al. (2015) in okra crop and Baba et al. (2018) in tomato.\r\nThe results presented in Table 2 clearly shows that the maximum weight of fruit (6.58 g), early fruit yield (8.63 kg/plot) and total fruit yield (119.36 q/ha) was recorded under T1 followed by T2(6.34 g), (8.24 kg/plot) and (117.46 q/ha) respectively. Whereas, T14 reported for minimum weight of fruit (3.94 g), early fruit yield (4.80 kg/plot) and total fruit yield (65.25 q/ha). Further, organic manures increase the efficiency of added chemical fertilizers in soil and increased rate of humification. Humic acid in vermicompost enhances the availability of both native and micro nutrients in soil and thus plant growth, yield attributes and yield increased (Singh et al., 2010). \r\nThe significant improvement in yield with the addition of organic manures seems to be an account of greater accumulation of dry matter right from the early stage of crop growth and at harvest by virtue of increased photosynthetic efficiency and nutrient accumulation. These results are in accordance with the findings of Anburani et al. (2003) in brinjal, Premsekhar and Rajashree (2009) in okra, Chetri et al. (2012) in capsicum, Ibrahim and Hamma (2012); Mal et al. (2013) in okra also observed the higher efficacy of organic manures.\r\n \r\nThe results presented in Table 3 indicates that the more no. of 1st fruiting node (3.53), maximum number of fruits per plant (16.60) and harvest index (49.59) was recorded under T1 followed by T2 (3.27), (15.56) and (49.47) whereas, T14 reported for less no. of 1st fruiting node (2.50), number of fruits per plant (11.51) and harvest index (37.29). This may be due to increase in number of fruits/plot at higher nitrogen application which results in higher competition among the plants. Brar et al. (1993); Kumar (2017); Vats (2011) in fenugreek reported similar results due to higher dry matter production resulted in larger source for photosynthesis and thereby more translocation of photosynthates to sink.\r\n','Devender Kumar and Sanjay Kumar (2022). Effect of Nitrogen, Organic Manures along with Biofertilizers on Yield Parameters of Okra (Abelmoschus esculentus L.). Biological Forum – An International Journal, 14(2a): 09-12.'),(5101,'134','Evaluation of Genetic variability, Heritability and Genetic Advance for Grain Yield components in Rice (Oryza sativa L.)','Mohammad Salman*, S.C. Vimal, Prakriti Chauhan, Mohammad Amir, Arshad Husain and Sony Grace','3 Evaluation of Genetic variability, Heritability and Genetic Advance for Grain Yield components in Rice _Oryza sativa L._ Manoj Kumar.pdf','',1,'Higher grain yield/production is the primary requirement to feed the fast growing population in the world, and the improvement of any trait mainly depends on magnitude of genetic variability present in base population. In this regard present investigation consists of 25 rice varieties and the experiment was conducted during Kharif 2020 and 2021 in Randomized Block Design with three replications. The data were recorded for 7 quantitative characters to study genetic variability, heritability, genetic advance and varieties performance. On the basis of mean performance, high seed yield per plant were exhibited by the varieties NDR-8002, CR Sugandha dhan-908, HUR-105, CR Sugandha dhan-910 and HUR-3022. Analysis of variance among 25 varieties showed significant difference for all characters studied. Highest genotypic coefficient of variation (GCV) & phenotypic coefficient variation (PCV) was observed for seed yield per plant that these characters could be used as selection for crop improvement. High evaluation of heritability was observed for traits days to 50% flowering, Plant height (cm), Number of tillers/plant, Panicle length (cm), Number of grains/panicle, Test weight (g) and yield/plant. High genetic advance were observed for number of traits days to 50% flowering, Plant height (cm), Number of tillers/plant, Panicle length (cm), Number of grains/panicle, Test weight (g) and yield/plant indicating predominance of additive gene effects and possibilities of effective selection for the improvement of these characters.','Genetic variability, Heritability, Rice, Genetic advance, GCV and PCV.','The results of the investigation shows high heritability and along with high genetic advance for number of tillers per plant, number of grains per panicle and seed yield per plant, which are the main traits in regard to enhance the yield production in rice. These traits are governed by additive gene effects which indicating that improvement in these characters is possible through hybridization followed by selection with pedigree breeding.','INTRODUCTION\r\nRice (Oryza sativa L.) is one of the most important field crops after wheat in the world providing staple food to the basket of millions. It is an indispensable source of calories for almost half of the population within Asia. Almost 95% of the rice production happens in Asian countries and nearly half of the global population consumes it. Rice cultivation ranks third in agricultural commodity production, after sugarcane and maize (Priya et al., 2019). Rice is grown in more than a hundred countries with a total harvested area of approximately166.47 million hectares producing around 513.03 MMT annually (World Agriculture Production, USDA, 2022). For any crop improvement it depends on magnitude of genetic variability present in base population. Environmental effects influence the total observable variations of quantitative traits. Therefore, partitioning of overall variance due to genetic and non-genetic causes becomes necessary for effective breeding programme. The genotypic coefficient of variation estimates the heritable variability, whereas phenotypic component measures the role of environment on the genotype. High PCV and low GCV for a character indicated high influence of environment in its expression. The phenomenon of transmission of characters from parents to offspring is usually measured in terms of heritability. Therefore the estimates of heritability and genetic advance would help to formulate a sound breeding programme. In view of above facts, the present investigation was carried out to estimate the variability, heritability and genetic advance present in germplasm collection.\r\nMATERIALS AND METHODS\r\nThe experimental material for the present study consisted of 25 rice varieties which studies were conducted during Kharif Season 2020 and 2021 at Crop Research Station, Masodha, Acharya Narendra Deva University of Agriculture and Technology, Kumarganj, Ayodhya. The experimental material for the present investigation consisted of Twenty five rice varieties which were obtained from CRS, Masodha, Ayodhya, BHU, Varanasi and NRRI, Cuttack. The varieties are sown in a randomized block design with three replications with spacing of 20 × 15 cm. The nursery was raised on first week of August and transplanted after 24 days. Data were recorded on five randomly selected plants in each entry in each replications for the traits days to 50% flowering, Plant height (cm), Number of tillers/plant, Panicle length (cm), Number of grains/panicle, Test weight (g) and yield/plant. The data subjected to INDOSTAT software to estimate Genetic coefficient of variation (%), phenotypic coefficient of variation (%), Heritability (%) (Broadsense) and Genetic Advance as percent of mean. The estimates for variability treated as per the categorization proposed by Siva Subramanian and Madhavamenon 4, heritability and genetic advance as percent of mean estimates according to criteria proposed by Johnson et al. (1955).\r\nRESULTS AND DISCUSSIONS\r\nOn the basis of mean performance of yield and yield contributing traits NDR-8002 was highest yielder followed by CR Sugandha dhan-908, HUR-105, CR Sugandha dhan-910 and HUR-3022. For 1000-grain weight (g) Narendra- 3112 and HUR-11-3 were good. Plant height of NDR-2064 was best followed by Nua Chinikamini and Geetanjali (Table 3).\r\nDays to 50% flowering: The statistical analysis of data showed that’s there was wide variability among the twenty-five varieties during both the years’ basis data. During the year 2020, days to 50% flowering among the twenty five varieties was ranged from 81.67 – 122.67 days while the general mean calculated for the same was 106.16. During 2021, variety NDR-97 took minimum days (81.67) while variety Nua Kalajeera took maximum days (122.67) to attain 50% flowering. \r\nDuring the year 2021, the general mean calculated for days to 50% flowering of all the twenty five varieties was 106.89 and it ranged from 82.00 to 121.67. Variety NDR-97 showed least number of days (82 days) while Nua Kalajeera showed maximum number of days (121.67 days) to 50% flowering as presented in (Table 3). The graphs regarding these findings have been shown in Fig. 2, 3, 4.\r\nPlant Height (cm): Plant height of all twenty five varieties varied significantly during both the year of experimentation. During the year 2020, plant height (cm) of all the varieties ranged from 90.67cm to 148.73cm while the average plant height of all the varieties was found to be 118.07cm. Maximum plant height (148.73cm) was recorded in variety NDR-2064 whereas minimum plant height (90.67cm) was recorded in CR Sugandha dhan-907. \r\nDuring the year 2021, plant height of all the varieties ranged from 92.03cm to 150.80cm and the average plant height of these twenty five varieties was 119.20cm. Minimum plant height (92.03cm) was attained by variety CR Sugandha dhan-907 while maximum plant height (150.80cm) was attained by variety Nua Dhusara as presented in (Table 3). The graphs regarding these findings have been shown in Fig. 2, 3, 4.\r\nNumber of tillers per plant: Analysis of data pertaining to number of tillers per plant among twenty five varieties was found to be significantly variable during both the years basis. During the year 2020, overall mean of number of tillers per plant of all twenty five varieties was 13.77 and it ranged from 9.33 to 24.33 with maximum number of tillers per plant (24.33) in variety HUR-3022 and minimum (9.33) in Sarjoo-52.\r\nDuring the year 2021, the general mean calculated for number of tillers of all the varieties was 14.32 and it ranged from 10.33 to 24.33. Maximum number of tillers per plant (24.33) during the year 2021 was recorded in HUR-3022 while it was minimum (10.33) in Sarjoo-52 as presented in (Table 3). The graphs regarding these findings have been shown in Fig. 2, 3, 4.\r\nPanicle Length (cm): The interpretation of data regarding panicle length (cm) of both the years basis showed that there was wide variability among the twenty-five varieties. During the year 2020, panicle length of twenty five varieties ranged from 21.50cm–29.97cmwhile the general mean calculated for the panicle length of all the twenty five varieties was 25.13cm. Maximum panicle length (29.97cm) was recorded in varieties Poorna Bhog while minimum (21.50cm) in NDGR-201. \r\nDuring the year 2021, the general mean calculated for panicle length (cm) of all the twenty five varieties was 24.76cm and it ranged from 21.13cm to 29.20 cm. Maximum panicle length (29.20cm) was recorded in Poorna Bhog whereas minimum panicle length (21.13cm) was recorded in variety CR Sugandha Dhan -907 as presented in (Table 3). The graphs regarding these findings have been shown in Fig. 2, 3, 4.\r\nNumber of grains per panicle: Statistical analysis of data of both the years and on pooled basis showed that there was significant difference in the number of grains per panicle among the twenty-five varieties. During the year 2020, number of grains per panicle in all the twenty five varieties ranged from 128 to 208while the general mean calculated for the number of grains per panicle for all the twenty five varieties was 159.96. Maximum number of grains per panicle (208) was recorded in varieties Keteki Joha while minimum (128) in NDR-359. \r\nDuring the year 2021, the general mean calculated for number of grains per panicle of all the twenty five varieties was 159.39 and it ranged from 125 to 206. Maximum number of grains per panicle (206) was recorded in Keteki Joha whereas minimum panicle length (125) was recorded in variety CR Sugandha Dhan-907 as presented in (Table 3). The graphs regarding these findings have been shown in Fig. 2, 3, 4.\r\n1000-seed weight (g): Statistical analysis of data of both the years basis showed that 1000-seed weight differed significantly and variably among all twenty-five varieties. During the year 2020, 1000-seed weight of all the twenty five varieties ranged from 20g to 26.03g, while the general mean calculated for the1000-seed weight of all the twenty five varieties was 23.32g. Maximum 1000-seed weight (26.03g) was recorded in variety NDR-3112 while minimum (20g) in CR Sugandhadhan 907. \r\nDuring the year 2021, the general mean calculated for 1000-seed weight of all the twenty five varieties was 23.77g and it ranged from 20.77g to 26.47g. Maximum 1000-seed weight (26.47g) was recorded in NDR-3112 whereas minimum 1000-seed weight (20.77g) was recorded in variety CR Sugandha Dhan-908 as presented in (Table 3). The graphs regarding these findings have been shown in Fig. 2, 3, 4.\r\nSeed Yield/Plant (g): Statistical analysis of data collected during both the year of experiment analysis presented in (Table 3) revealed that there was wide variability in the yield/plant (g) of all twenty five varieties. During the year 2020, yield/plant of all the varieties used in the experiment ranged from 34.28g to 51.30g. The general mean for the yield/plant (g) of all the varieties was 39.76g. Maximum yield/plant (51.30g) was obtained in NDR-8002 while lowest yield/plant (34.28g) was obtained in Sarjoo-52. \r\nDuring the year 2021, yield/plant in all the varieties ranged from 35.89g to 46.16g and the average yield/plant of all the varieties was 41.05g. During this year, maximum yield/plant (46.16g) was obtained from variety CR Sugandha Dhan -908 while minimum (35.89g) in CR Sugandha Dhan -907 as presented in (Table 3). The graphs regarding these findings have been shown in Fig. 2, 3, 4. \r\nCoefficient of variation: In the present study analysis of variance revealed the existence of significant differences among varieties for all traits studied. The mean, variability estimates i.e., Genetic coefficient of Variation (%), phenotypic coefficient of variation (%), Heritability (%) (Broad sense), Genetic Advance as percent of means are presented in (Table 1). The high estimates (>15%) of phenotypic PCV and genotypic GCV coefficients of variation were recorded in case of Number of tillers/plant (Y1 PCV=31.44%, GCV=30.20% and Y2 PCV=27.94%, GCV=26.88%), Number of grains/panicle (Y1 PCV=15.94%, GCV=15.88% and Y2 PCV=16.65%, GCV=16.47%), Plant height (cm) (Y1 PCV=16.48%, GCV=16.40% and Y2 PCV=16.21%, GCV=16.11%). Moderates estimates (<10%) of PCV and GCV were noted for Days of 50% flowering (Y1 PCV=9.46%, GCV=9.33% and Y2 PCV=9.06%, GCV=8.92%), Panicle length (cm) (Y1 PCV=9.38%, GCV=9.18% and Y2 PCV=9.84%, GCV=9.49%), Seed yield /plant (g) (Y1 PCV=8.12%, GCV=7.66%) and Y2 PCV=8.75%, GCV=8.53%), 1000- grain weight (g) (Y1 PCV=7.68%, GCV=7.44% and Y2 PCV=7.47%, GCV=7.21%) as presented in (Table 2). The existence of high variability for above characters in rice has also been reported earlier by Shukla et al. (2005); Aditya and Bhartiya (2013); Ashish et al. (2016); Kumar et al. (2017); Barhate et al. (2021); Singh (2021) findings have been shown in Fig. 1.\r\nHeritability and genetic advance: The high estimates of h2 broad sense (>80%) were noted for Plant height (cm) (Y1 99.10%) (Y2 98.84%), Number of grains/panicle (Y1 99.22% and Y2 97.94%), days of 50% flowering (Y1 97.21% and Y2 96.92%), Panicle length (cm) (Y1 95.72% and Y2 92.95%), Seed yield /plant (g) (Y1 89.02% and Y2 95.04%), 1000- grain weight (g) (Y1 93.67% and Y2 93.11%) and Number of tillers/plant (Y1 92.23% and Y2 92.55%) as presented in (Table 2). The results obtained under present study are in accordance with earlier reports of Kumar et al. (2017); Goswami et al. (2018); Kishore et al. (2018); Ganapati et al.(2020); Rahman et al. (2021); Singh (2021); Singh, (2021). Findings have been shown in Fig. 1. The genetic advance in per cent the very high estimates of (>30%) genetic advance were recorded for Number of tillers/plant (Y1 59.74% and Y2 53.28%), Plant height (cm) (Y1 33.63% and Y2 33.00%), Number of grains/panicle (Y1 32.58% and Y2 33.59%). \r\nThe moderate estimates of genetic advance (<20% to >10%) were observed for days of 50% flowering (Y1 18.95% and Y2 18.09%), Panicle length (cm) (Y1 18.50% and Y2 18.84%), 1000- grain weight (g) (Y1 14.82% Y2 14.33%) and Seed yield /plant (g) (Y1 14.88 Y2 17.12%) as presented in (Table 2). \r\nAlso been reported earlier findings by Dhurai et al. (2014); Ashok et al. (2016); Khaire et al. (2017); Behera et al. (2018); Amudha et al. (2020). The graphs regarding these findings have been shown in Fig. 1.\r\n',' Mohammad Salman, S.C. Vimal, Prakriti Chauhan, Mohammad Amir, Arshad Husain and Sony Grace (2022). Evaluation of Genetic variability, Heritability and Genetic Advance for Grain Yield components in Rice (Oryza sativa L.). Biological Forum – An International Journal, 14(2a): 13-19.'),(5102,'134','Efficient in vitro Propagation Protocol for Mass Multiplication in Dragon Fruit (Hylocereus costaricensis)','Arunkumar G., Kavino M.*, Auxcilia J. and Hemaprabha K.','4 Efficient in vitro Propagation Protocol for Mass Multiplication in Dragon Fruit _Hylocereus costaricensis_ Arunkumar G.pdf','',1,'Dragon fruit, Hylocereus costaricensis (Cactaceae) was once widely grown as an ornamental plant but it is now considered as emerging fruit crop due to its neutraceutical values and consumer preference. It is commercially propagated by cuttings. The present study was carried out to find out an efficient and viable in vitro propagation protocol for mass multiplication of dragon fruit through direct organogenesis. The shoot tips of different length (1.5, 2.0, 2.5 cm) were cultured on Murashige and Skoog (MS) media with different concentrations of growth regulators such as BAP and cytokinin under in vitro conditions. Results revealed that highest in vitro response was recorded with shoot tips of 2cm in length supplemented with 2mgL-1 of BAP. Highest number of multiple shoots was reported in MS media supplemented with 7mgL-1 of BAP and 1mgL-1 of Kinetin. Further, maximum shoot length (3.5cm) was recorded in MS media supplemented with 7mgL -1 of BAP and 1mgL -1 of kinetin compared to others. Hence from the present study, it is inferred that MS medium fortified with 7mg L-1 BAP and 1 mgL-1 Kinetin were found to be the best combination in terms of time taken for multiple shoot induction, number of multiple shoots and shoot length. The present study is focused on overcoming the challenges of in vitro propagation and raising genetically homogeneous and true to type plantlets in order to address the main problems encountered by researchers in plant tissue culture, which are mainly contamination and phenolic browning. Therefore, it is anticipated that this protocol is effective and that it can be utilized to generate dragon fruit in large quantities for commercial purposes.','Hylocereus costaricensis, Dragon fruit, Mass multiplication, In vitro micropropagation.','In vitro propagation is the best alternative method in dragon fruit for mass multiplication to produce disease free and true to type planting material. Based on the present study, the explant of 2cm in length, with 4 to 5 nodes, showed better response of survival after pretreatment with 0.1% Bavistin and surface sterilization with HgCl2 (0.1% for 3 min). MS medium supplemented with 2mgL-1 of BAP exhibited highest response for shoot proliferation. However, the results revealed that MS medium fortified with 7mgL-1 BAP + 1 mgL-1 Kinetin was found to be the best in terms of earlier response of shoot multiplication, highest number of multiple shoots and maximum shoot length. Hence this protocol could be utilized for mass multiplication of dragon fruit under in vitro conditions.','INTRODUCTION\r\nDragon fruit (Hylocereus costaricensis L.) is a cactus, belonging to the family Cactaceae. Recently, dragon fruit is introduced as super fruit in India and it is considered to be a promising and remunerative fruit crop. It is a long day plant with beautiful night blooming flower that is nicknamed as “Noble Woman” or “Queen of the Night”. The fruit is also known as straw berry pear, dragon fruit, pithaya, night blooming cereus, Belle of the night, Conderella plant and Jesus in the Cradle. Fruit is named as pitaya because of the bracts or scales on the fruit skin and hence, the name of pitaya meaning ‘the scaly fruit’. It has ornamental value due to the beauty of their large flowers (25 cm) that bloom at night; they are creamy white in colour. Dragon fruit production is gaining importance and it is receiving more recognition as a commercial fruit crop in India. It is commercially propagated by cuttings and however multiplication rates are very low and obtaining enough planting material is difficult due to the large size of the cuttings required (50 cm lengths) (Le Bellec et al., 2006). Despite seed germination efficiencies of 71 to 83 percent for H. undatus (El Obeidy, 2006), such propagation is not commercially viable because seed-derived plants have a long juvenile period and delaying fruit production for several years. \r\nHowever, through tissue culture, production of a large number of clonal plants in a relatively short period of time is possible while using very small plant material (Rubluo et al., 1993). Hylocereus undatus can develop branching in its younger sections, while its basal parts can only produce callus. Explants should be chosen according to their age and place of origin, whether they are from in vivo mature plants or in vitro germinated seedlings (Garcia-Rubio and Malda-Barrera 2010). The selection of appropriate explants and medium is the most important consideration for enhanced dragon fruit in vitro response. Thinesh and Seran (2015) used dragon fruit bud and stem explants, Wyka and Ludwiczak (2009) used flower buds from Mammillaria sp., and Caetano Nunez et al. (2014) reported using Selenicereus megalanthus explants from meristematic tissue. Exudation of phenolic compounds from plant tissue cut ends causes browning of explants and has proven fatal to culture establishment. Browning in plants is caused primarily by phenol oxidase results in oxidation of phenolic compounds. Application of antioxidants in the medium and selection of suitable explants have been tested in order to overcome browning by many workers in Strawberry (Hidayatullah Mir et al., 2019); Guava (Ahmad et al., 2016); Banana (Ko et al., 2009). \r\nMany studies have been conducted by using in vitro-germinated plants to avoid disinfection of explants due to extreme sensitivity to common disinfection procedures and subsequent low survival rates (Santos-Diaz et al., 2003). Extensive research on the composition of mineral salts, plant growth regulator and chemical compounds in culture media is usually required when developing effective micropropagation processes for a specific species.\r\nThe focus of this study was to develop an efficient and viable protocol for in vitro establishment and vegetative propagation of Hylocereus costaricensis, a betalains-rich pink fleshed pithaya (Esquivel et al., 2007), using different-sized shoot tips as explants. Furthermore, it describes a successful regeneration protocol for the formation of multiple shoots from in vitro derived plants.\r\nMATERIALS AND METHODS\r\nThe present study was carried out at Tissue culture laboratory, Department of Fruit Science, Horticultural College and Research Institute, TNAU, Coimbatore during 2021-2022 to develop an efficient method for mass multiplication of dragon fruit plants under in vitro conditions through direct organogenesis.\r\nPlanting material. Young shoot tips (1.0, 1.5, 2.0, 2.5 cm in length) with 4 to 5 nodes of dark green colour shoots were collected from two years old healthy mother plants of dragon fruit plants maintained at University orchard, Horticultural College and Research Institute, TNAU, Coimbatore as explants for in vitro propagation of dragon fruit.\r\nSterilization of explants. The shoot tip explants were collected from the field and then washed thoroughly under running tap water and then pretreated with tween 20 for 5 minutes and then with fungicide treatment such as Bavistin 0.1% for 15 minutes and then subsequently washed with tap water and distilled water. After that under laminar air flow chamber the explants were given a brief wash with 70 percent ethanol, followed by three sterile water washes and then with 0.1% mercuric chloride for 3 to 5 minutes followed by 3 to 4 sterile water wash.\r\nCulture medium. The surface sterilized explants were inoculated on Murashige and Skoog mineral salts (MS) medium supplemented with thiamine hydrochloride (0.1 mgL-1), pyridoxine hydrochloride (0.5mgL-1), nicotinic acid (0.5mgL-1), glycine (2 mgL-1), myo-inositol (100 mgL-1), sucrose (30gL-1), plant growth regulators such as 6-Benzyl Amino purine (BAP), Kinetin and antioxidants like citric acid (100mgL-1) and ascorbic acid (100mgL-1). The pH was adjusted to 5.6 to 5.8 with KOH/ NaOH, and the medium was gelled with (0.8 %) agar poured into 25× 150 mm culture tubes and culture bottles and the media was sterilized by autoclaving under 121°C for 15 minutes at 15 psi.\r\nInoculation of explants. Tip section of the sterilised shoot tips (1.5, 2.0 and 2.5 cm in length) was removed by using scalpel and forceps under laminar air flow chamber. Following that, the excised explants were placed on MS media containing the plant growth regulators described above as well as 30 gL-1 sucrose. Each culture vial containing four explants were labelled and parafilm strips were used to seal it.\r\nCulture Environment. The cultured bottles containing explants were incubated at temperature of 25±2oC, 60 to 70% relative humidity, with a photoperiod of 16 hours of light and 8 hours of darkness with 3000 lux light intensity using white fluorescent light. The cultures were checked daily for contamination and subsequently photoperiod and temperature were maintained inside the culture room.\r\nShoot initiation. Aseptic culture initiation was the initial procedure for in vitro establishment. The shoots formed in MS basal medium with various concentrations of growth hormones (1, 1.5, 2.0, 2.5, and 3 mgL-1 of BAP). Shoots were also formed in MS basal medium without growth hormones served as control. However, maximum shoot initiation takes place in MS media supplemented with 2 mgL-1 BAP (T3) compared to other treatments (Table 1). Shoot regeneration usually takes 23 to 35 days after inoculation into the culture medium be cause of its slow growing and succulent in nature. During the incubation phase, browning of explants were observed in few culture bottles. Subculture was done once in two weeks to keep away the explants from browning.\r\nMass Multiplication. Following establishment on the initiation media, the explants were transferred into multiplication media for further proliferation. Shoots of 1.5cm in length was achieved after 35 days of inoculation (Table 3) and it was transferred into a medium containing different concentrations of cytokinins such as Benzyl Amino purine (BAP) (3mgL-1 to 7mgL-1) and kinetin (1mgL-1) to get multiple shoot formation. The MS media supplemented with 7 mgL-1 BAP +1 mgL-1 Kinetin (Table 4) and 30 gL-1 sucrose, produced maximum number (7) of multiple shoots and maximum length (3.5cm) of shoots were recorded after 25 days of subculturing and it is repeated for every 20 days. Multiple shoots with identical numbers were observed in BAP concentrations of 3 and 4 mgL-1and 1mgL-1 Kinetin (Table 4).\r\nStatistical Analysis. This experiment was carried out in Completely randomized design (CRD) with three replications in each treatment and observations recorded as percentage were subjected to arc sine transformation. Data was recorded at regular intervals and was analysed using ANOVA at 5% level of significance and MS Excels preadsheet.\r\nRESULTS AND DISCUSSION\r\nSelection of suitable explants is an important feature of commercial tissue culture which will yield true to type plants and it may influence the production of number of shoots per explant. Success of in vitro propagation through direct organogenesis depends on type of explants and concentrations of plant growth regulators used. Different types of explants were reported such as bud and stem explants (Thinesh and Seran 2015) Young joints (20 to 50mm) in length (Mohamed-Yasseen, 2002). Karimi et al. (2010) studied the callus induction of Cereus peruvianus using stem explants. Ghaffari et al., (2013) reported that young cladodes of Opuntia sp were used as explants and can successfully regenerate shoots. In the present study, the shoot tips of different sized segments of dragon fruit were used as explants and it was cultured on MS media supplemented with five different concentrations (1.0, 1.5, 2.0, 2.5 and 3 mgL-1) of BAP to determine the most suitable concentrations for shoot initiation (Table 1).\r\nKasim et al. (2019) developed a protocol for multiple shoot regeneration using stem explants of Hylocereus costaricensis cultured on Murashige and Skoog medium supplemented with 3mgL-1 of BAP and 0.5mgL-1 NAA and exhibited highest in vitro response for callus formation and highest number of shoots were produced. The present study results concluded that the positive response of shoot initiation took place when shoot tips of 2.5cm were cultured on MS media supplemented with 2mgL-1 BAP. Survival percentage were over 70 % in T3 (O.1% Bavistin + HgCl2 0.1% for 3 min) and it recorded the highest survival percentage compared to other treatments (Table 2). Less contamination was recorded in T6 (0.1% Bavistin + Hgcl2 (0.1% for 6 min) and it was highest (80%) in T1 (0.1% Bavistin + HgCl2 (0.1% for 1 min) (Table 2). Further, it was noted that the survival percentage of shoot tip explants was 65% at the second week afterwards, it reduced to 58% at the third week. Shoot tips of 1.5 cm taken as explants exhibited lower contamination than 2.0cmand 2.5cm. Lowest mortality percentage (40%) was recorded in T3 (0.1% Bavistin + HgCl2 (0.1% for 3 min) and it was highest (51%) in T6 (0.1% Bavistin + Hgcl2 (0.1% for 6 min) (Table 2).\r\nThe microbes present in plant tissues commonly resulted in decreasing survival rate of the cultured explants, in vitro morphogenic response and their variable growth (Kane 2003). Browning of explants were also observed in a few cultures during their incubation. It is generally due to phenolic compounds that are released from the cut surfaces of the explants and these compounds may lead to death of the explants (Ahmad 2013). Safwat et al. (2015) reported that phenolic exudation of explants is overcome by adding antioxidants like citric acid (150mgL-1) and ascorbic acid (150mgL-1) to the culture medium and results in inhibition of browning or blackening in the culture medium. Time taken for shoot initiation also varies and it was further noted that slow growth of the explants as it belongs to cactus family. Lowest time taken for shoot initiation (23 days) was recorded in MS media supplemented with 2mgL-1 of BAP and it was highest (45 days) in MS basal (control) (Table 3).\r\n Shoots longer than 1.5cm was transferred into freshly prepared MS medium and it is usually carried out for every two weeks and it was noted that fungal contamination takes place after 1 week of subculturing which reduced the survival percentage. The addition of cytokinin in the culture medium breaks the dormancy and activates the areoles under in vitro conditions and improves the proliferation rate has been reported in various cactus species like Opuntia (Estrada et al., 2008). Multiple shoot formation takes place when the explants were cultured on multiplication medium containing different combinations of growth regulators. Induction of multiple shoots from different explants of cacti has been reported earlier with respect to response of different cytokinins such as BA (Dahanayake et al., 2011). In the present study BAP was used for multiple shoot induction.\r\nHighest number of multiple shoots (7) was recorded in MS media supplemented with 7mgL-1 of BAP + 1mgL-1 kinetin and least was observed in MS media supplemented with 3mgL-1 of BAP (Table 4). Subculture was carried out at regular intervals of every 20 days and shoot length was recorded during 60 to 70 days after inoculation till it attains the maximum length. Shoot length was recorded highest (3.5 cm) in MS media supplemented with 7mgL-1 of BAP + 1mgL-1 kinetin and it was lowest (2.7cm) in MS media supplemented with 3mgL-1 of BAP (Table 4). ','Arunkumar G., Kavino M., Auxcilia J. and Hemaprabha K. (2022). Efficient in vitro Propagation Protocol for Mass Multiplication in Dragon Fruit (Hylocereus costaricensis). Biological Forum – An International Journal, 14(2a): 20-25.'),(5103,'134','Isolation, Pathogenic, Morphological and Molecular characterization of Alternaria solani causing Post-harvest Rot of Tomato Fruits','S. Dharani*, K. Prabakar, V. Sendhilvel and R. Swarnapriya','5 Isolation, Pathogenic, Morphological and Molecular characterization of Alternaria solani causing Post-harvest Rot of Tomato Fruits S. Dharani.pdf','',1,'Alternaria solani, which is the causal organism of post-harvest rot of tomato, is one the devastating pathogen causing severe yield losses worldwide. Since it causes around 60 to 80 per cent yield losses in tomato fruits, study of this pathogen becomes necessary at post-harvest level. This study focuses on identification of morphological, pathogenic and molecular variability among the various test isolates of A. solani isolated from tomato fruits in vitro. Infected samples were collected from markets around Coimbatore district. The results concluded that, the eight isolates of A. solani exhibits morphological variability based on colour and colony character and pathogenic variability based on severity of infection caused on tomato fruits. The molecular characterizations of these isolates were carried out using universal primers ITS 1 and 4 and sequenced. The phylogenetic analysis was performed by neighbour joining method. This study focuses on the isolation, pathogenic, morphological and molecular characterization of Alternaria solani isolates causing post-harvest rot of tomato fruits. ','Tomato, post-harvest rot, Alternaria solani, morphology, molecular, pathogenic.','Based on the findings, it has been inferred that A.solani isolates obtained from different locations in the Coimbatore region may differ in terms of pathogenicity, morphology, and molecular makeup. ','INTRODUCTION\r\nTomato (Solanum lycopersicum L.) is a major contributor to the fruit and vegetable diet of humans. India stands second in the production of tomato next to China (FAOSTAT, 2017). It is cultivated in essentially all areas of the country either in fields or in protected culture. It is grown widely throughout the country, either in field or in greenhouses in cooler climates. Tomato is grown over an area of 29.08 thousand hectares with an annual production of 887.08 MT during 2017-18 (Anonymous, 2019) in Tamilnadu. Tomato fruit compositionally, has unique nutritional and phytochemical profile. Vitamin C, Vitamin A, potassium, fibre and antioxidants like lycopene are present naturally in tomatoes. Among the pathogens causing post-harvest diseases in tomato, Alternaria solani is an important pathogen. Alternaria solani belongs to the phylum Ascomycota, class Dothideomycetes, order Pleosporales and to family Pleosporaceace (Simmons, 2007). The post-harvest rot caused by A.solani is a serious threat to the profitable cultivation of tomato (Solanum lycopersicum L.) which on the other hand reduces the quality and quantity of tomato fruits drastically. The symptoms of the disease are characterized by brown to dark brown coloured necrotic spots. Under humid condition, these spots are progressed upwards and coalesced to produce the concentric zone on the leaves, appearing like the bull’s eye. In fruits, lesions are observed at the stem-end which is dark, leathery and sunken with target board like appearance (Agrios, 2005). In case of severe infection, the pathogen leads to defoliation, drying off of twigs and premature fruit drop causing 50% to 86% losses in fruit yield. Although A. solani fungus is cosmopolitan in nature requires several specific compounds for their growth. A wide range of media can favour the isolation of A. solani fungus which supports the radial growth, dry weight growth and sporulation of fungus. Compositions of various media can also influence the characters like colony morphology of A.solani. Morphological characterization is one of the classical approach to distinguish fungal species, which is one of the main requisite of fungal taxonomy. Cultural, morphological and molecular variability was also documented by several workers (Kaul and Saxena 1998; Yunhui et al., 1994; Babu et al., 2000; Ahmad, 2002; Naik et al., 2010; Rahmatzai et al., 2016). Identification of A. solani species has been done traditionally based on the morphological characters like the growth habit of the pathogen, conidia, ascogonia, antheridia and rate of growth in culture media. Since, these morphological characteristics could be influenced by culture conditions and epidemiological conditions many species are very similar when compared under this category, which makes the use of molecular methods to differentiate species becomes necessary. The use of molecular methods for identification of A. solani species began more than a decade ago. Understanding the variability of the pathogen will help in developing effective management strategies. Therefore genetic variation analysis within the pathogen populations is very helpful in understanding coevolution of host-pathogen, epidemiology and developing strategies for resistance management (Leung et al., 1993). Use of ITS regions seems to be the most popular choice of many researchers working with detection of this pathogen. This study focuses on the isolation of the pathogen from infected tomato fruit, morphological characterization for identification of the pathogen and molecular characterization using ITS rDNA.\r\nMATERIALS AND METHODS\r\nIsolation and identification of pathogen. A. solani infected samples were collected from different markets around Coimbatore. The collected samples were used for the isolation of pathogen A. solani. Infected tissues of tomato fruits were cut into small pieces and it is surface sterilized by dipping in 0.1% mercuric chloride for 30 seconds and then given three subsequent washings with sterile distilled water (Kator et al., 2018). The sterile pieces were placed on petri plates containing Potato Dextrose Agar (PDA) medium by half plate technique and the plates were incubated at 27± 2°C. After a week of incubation using single hyphal tip method the culture was transferred to plates containing fresh Potato dextrose agar (PDA) medium and incubated at 27± 2°C. Further, the pure culture of each isolates was maintained separately on PDA slants in glass test tubes and stored in refrigerator for future studies (Koley et al., 2015).\r\nPathogenicity study. To study the pathogenic ability of A.solani isolates, tomato fruits of hybrid Saago were used. Unripe, green tomato fruits were collected and surface sterilized with 70 % ethanol. Injuries were made on the fruit with the help of sterilized needle. Mycelial disc of the isolates obtained from 7 days old culture grown on PDA medium, were inoculated on the fruits and these were placed in boxes containing moist cotton. In order to maintain humidity, the boxes were covered with polythene sheets. Three replications were maintained for each isolate and monitored regularly. Furthermore, to study the virulence potential variability of each isolate, the disease incidence and severity were continuously measured. Observation in each 14 days interval was recorded, using 0-5 disease scale (Pandey et al., 2003). Disease incidence and per cent disease index (PDI) for each isolate were calculated as follows:\r\nPer cent disease incidence = \r\n \r\nPercent disease index (PDI) = \r\n Morphological characterization. All the eight isolates A. solani were isolated aseptically on the PDA plates, incubated at 27±2°C for a week and cultural characteristics were observed which are colony colour/pigmentation, colony morphology, colony diameter and mycelial growth is observed 15 days after incubation. Morphological characters like mycelium and conidial characters were observed at 1000X using phase contrast microscope (Nikam et al., 2015). \r\nMolecular characterization. The A. solani fungal culture were grown in conical flask containing 50 ml of potato dextrose broth for about 10 days and maintained at 25±1°C in BOD. Genomic DNA was extracted by pure fungal culture with slight modification of CTAB protocol (Manicom et al., 1987). Mycelium was extracted by filtration through Whatmann No. 1 filter paper and washed exhaustively with distilled water. For each isolate 5 g of fresh mycelial mat was dried on sterile blotter paper and grounded with liquid N2 to make fine powder. The one gram of grinded fungal culture was taken in eppendorf tube and 15 ml of Cetyl trimethyl ammonium bromide CTAB (DNA extraction buffer) was added in each tube separately and incubated at 65°C in water bath for about 30 min with intermittent shaking. The mixture was centrifuged at 13,000 rpm/min for 15 min at 4°C to pellet the mycelium. Supernatant was taken in a fresh Oakridge tube and an equal volume of phenol: chloroform: isoamylalcohol (25:24:1) was added with 2 – 3 min slow inversion. The mixture was again centrifuged at 13,000 rpm/min for 15 min at 4°C. The aqueous supernatant was taken in a fresh tube and added 0.6 volume isopropanol and was incubated at – 20°C overnight. After overnight incubation, it was again centrifuged at 13,000 rpm/min for 20 min at 40C temperature. The supernatant was discarded and the pellet was washed with 70% ethanol. The pellet was dissolved in 500 µl of TE buffer and used for PCR amplification.\r\nPCR Amplification. A. solani cultures were identified molecularly using the conserved ribosomal Internal Transcribed Spacers (ITS) region. Using the universal primer pairs ITS1 (5’-TCCGTAGGTGAACCTGCGG-3’) and ITS4 (5’-TCCTCCGCTTATTGATATGC-3’), amplified the ITS regions between the small nuclear 18S rDNA and the larger nuclear 28S rDNA, including 5.8S rDNA. PCR was carried out in a final volume of 25 µl, containing 10mM of oligonucleotide primer (1 µl), 20mM of each of the four deoxynucleotide triphosphates (0.75 µl), 25mM MgCl2 (1.0 µl), 0,35 µl of Taq DNA polymerase, 10 × Assay buffer (2.5 µl) and 1.0 µl template DNA (60 ng/µl) (Virendra Kumar et al., 2008). All PCR reactions were carried out using Mastercycler® Nexus X2 PCR cycler (MA, USA) with the following parameters: an initial denaturation step at 95°C for 2 mins, 40 cycles of amplification with denaturation at 95°C for 1 min, annealing at 58°C for 1 min and 72°C for 1 min for extension with final extension 72°C for 10 min (Nikam et al., 2015). The electrophoresis was carried out on 1.0 per cent agarose gels. The Bio-Rad Gel Doc EZ Imaging System was used to view the PCR (Biotium, Hayward, CA).\r\nSequencing of ITS region and analysis. The PCR products were eluted and sequenced further at Biokart India Pvt Ltd, Bangalore, India. Partial nucleotide sequences of rDNA ITS region of isolates of A. solani were downloaded from NCBI database (www.ncbi.info). The program Basic Local Alignment Search Tool-Nucleotide or BLASTn server, was used to edit and align the ITS sequences and the similarity between strains of 18S rRNA gene sequences were calculated using Clustal W (Hall.,1999 and Thompson et al., 1997).The aligned sequnces were deposited in the GenBank database.\r\nPhylogenetic Analysis. The phylogenetic tree was constructed in Mega XI software (Kumar et al., 2018) with 1000 bootstrap replications using the Neighbour Joining approach based on the Tamura 3-parameter model (Tamura 1992). The out group used in this phylogenetic tree analyses was Sclerotium rolfsii and the reference sequence for 18S rRNA was obtained from GenBank data. \r\nRESULTS AND DISCUSSION\r\nIsolation of pathogen. From the infected samples collected from different markets around Coimbatore, eight isolates of A. solani was obtained. Isolation was carried out on PDA medium since it is the best medium to support the pathogen growth according to the study carried out by Koley et al. (2015). The results revealed that these eight isolates of A. solani exhibited differences in cultural characteristics like colony colour/pigmentation, colony morphology, colony diameter and mycelial growth which is shown in Table 1. The eight A. solani isolates were isolated using hyphal tip method. The eight isolates were designated as T AS1, T AS2, T AS3, T AS4, T AS5, T AS6, T AS7 and T AS8.\r\nMorphological characterization. Mycelial growth of T AS1 was recorded as 45.55 mm, T AS 2 was 86.87 mm, T AS 3 was recorded at 50.78 mm, T AS 4 has recorded mycelial growth of 51.45 mm, T AS 5 has recorded mycelial growth of 49.56 mm, T AS 6 was 82.67 mm, T AS 7 has mycelial growth of 89.23mm and T AS 8 was recorded at 87.11 mm. Maximum mycelial growth was recorded by T AS 7(89.23 mm). The least growth was noticed in T AS1. The eight isolates of A. solani exhibited different colony characters on PDA or Potato dextrose medium (Table 1). The colony characters were circular, raised colonies with concentric zonation were the characteristic feature of T AS 1, T AS 4 and T AS 7. The colony characters of T AS 2 were irregular, flattened colonies without concentric zonation. In contrast, the T AS 3 have irregular, flattened with concentric zonation. T AS 5 has colonies that are raised, irregular, with concentric zonation. Irregular colonies which are flat and had no concentric zonation were seen in T AS 6. T AS 8 had colonies that are circular, flat and has concentric zones. Conidia of virulent isolate T AS 7 is cylindrical, elongated with 3 to 4 transverse septations and 1 to 2 vertical sepatations which is shown in Fig. 1.\r\nPathogenicity study. Pathogenicity test which was conducted in vitro on fully matured tomato fruits of Saago hybrid revealed that after 5 days of inoculation typical symptoms were developed on all tomato fruits inoculated with A. solani, whereas the untreated control fruits did not exhibit any symptoms. Koch\'s postulates were satisfied by constant re-isolation of A. solani from pathogen inoculated fruits. The virulency of these isolates was tested 14 days after inoculation. These isolates obtained from several locations exhibited differences in their virulence. All the isolates of A. solani successfully established infection on tomato fruits, but the degree of infection was varied. Among the test isolates T AS7 was more virulent with maximum level of disease incidence (80%) and disease severity (73.4%) (Table 2).\r\nMolecular characterization and Phylogenetic analyses. The Internal Transcribed Spacer (ITS) regions (ITS1 and ITS4) and 5.8S gene area of 18S rDNA were amplified with the primers ITS1 and ITS4 to validate the initial identification and identity the clear taxonomic position. All eight isolates were amplified with 350 base pairs which has confirmed it as A. solani. Similarly Mohammadi and Bahramikia (2019) obtained the amplicon size of 350 bp in Alternaria isolates. The amplification were identical with prior identity and the amplified 18S-rDNA (ITS 1 and ITS 4) region was purified individually and sequenced by sangar dideoxy sequencing in NCBI (Fig. 2). The sequence of ITS regions were shown 98% sequence homology with GenBank sequences with BLASTn analysis. The sequence results obtained from the BLASTn analysis were submitted in NCBI GenBank, and the isolate T AS7 was assigned with the accession number as ON745167. The phylogenetic tree has formed five clades. The isolate T AS 7 used in this study comes under cluster 3. Several subclusters were formed in this cluster. The 89% of similarity was attained with other A. solani strains collected from gene bank. ','S. Dharani, K. Prabakar, V. Sendhilvel and R. Swarnapriya (2022). Isolation, Pathogenic, Morphological and Molecular characterization of Alternaria solani causing Post-harvest Rot of Tomato Fruits. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 14(2a): 26-31.'),(5104,'133','Genetic Diversity Analysis in Indian Mustard [Brassica juncea (L.) Czern and Coss.] Genotypes','Tarkeshwar*, Shiva Nath, Govind Mishra, Amit Kumar Chaudhary, Rishabh Gupta, Ajeet Kumar Gupta\r\nand S.C. Vimal','270 Genetic Diversity Analysis in Indian Mustard [Brassica juncea _L._ Czern and Coss.] Genotypes Tarkeshwar.pdf','',1,'The production and productivity of Indian mustard is not as sufficient as it can fulfil the current demand of edible oils of the country. This regard, there is an urgent need of high productive varieties of Indian mustard. Availability of sufficient genetic diversity is the basic necessity of any breeding programme for the improvement in desirable traits. The present investigation was carried out at Students Instructional Farm of Acharya Narendra Deva University of Agriculture and Technology, Kumarganj, Ayodhya consisting of sixty Indian mustard genotypes including three checks sown in Augmented Block Design during rabi 2021-2022 to study the diversity present among Indian mustard genotypes for seed yield and its component traits. The sixty genotypes of Indian mustard were grouped into six clusters. Cluster I and IV highest genotypes i.e., 13 each while lowest genotypes were noted in cluster III having 6 genotypes. The average inter cluster D2 values indicated that the most diverse groups were III & II and cluster III & I.\r\nThe genotypes from the most diverse clusters can be used as donors for rewarding the trait improvement.\r\n','Brassica juncea, genetic diversity, inter cluster distance, Euclidean cluster analysis','The genotypes present in a single cluster show the relatedness in their genetic pattern, and the genotypes of various clusters show distinctness in their genetic pattern. In other words, the more the inter cluster value, the more will be diversity among the genotypes of that clusters. Hence, selection of genotypes from a single cluster while planning a breeding program, will not be of genetic worth. So, opting genotypes form distant clusters will be of eminent use in our breeding program. The average inter cluster D2 values indicated that the most diverse groups were III & II and cluster III & I. Hence, while planning a breeding programme for higher test weight and a greater number of secondary branches per plant, the genotypes from these diverse clusters can be incorporated as donors.','INTRODUCTION\r\nIndian mustard [Brassica juncea (L.) Czern and Coss.] belongs to the genus Brassica of the family Brassiacaceae (former Crucifereae), is mainly a self-pollinating crop, although on an average 7.5-30% out-crossing occurs under open or natural field conditions (Abraham, 1994; Rakow and Woods 1987). Cytologically it is an amphidiploid (2n=36), derived from interspecific cross of Brassica campestris (2n=20) and Brassica nigra (2n=16) followed by natural chromosome doubling (Tomar et al., 2017).\r\nBrassica are economically of prime important genus comprising of oilseeds, vegetables and forage crops. Indian mustard is the second most important oilseed crop of the country next to groundnut, sharing 27.8% in the Indian oilseed economy. Brassica napus, B. campestris and B. juncea are the three chief species of mustard which produce edible oil. The major mustard producing regions are China, Indian subcontinent, Canada and Northern Europe (Ram and Hari 1998). According to an estimate, the area, production and yield of rapeseed-mustard in the world was 36.59 million hectares (mha), 72.37 million tonnes (mt) and 1980 kg/ha, respectively, during 2018-19. The area under rapeseed-mustard increased from 5.98 mha (2017-18) to 6.12 mha (2018-19), production increased from 8.43 mt (2017-18) to 9.26 mt (2018-19), and productivity got increased from 1840 kg/ha in 2010-11 to 1980 kg/ha in 2018-19 in India (DRMR, annual report 2019-20). However, the production and productivity of Indian mustard is still low as compared to current demand of edible oils of the country (Jat et al., 2019). Therefore, productivity of Indian mustard must be boost up in order to fulfil the increasing demand of edible oils in country.\r\nThe hereness of genetic variability is the basic need for genetic improvement through systematic breeding programmes for developing high yielding and stress resistant varieties in any crop. The genetic divergence analysis is an important tool to estimate genetic diversity present among selected genotypes of any plant which determine family relationships and genetic affinity or distance of genotypes from each other studying cluster analysis (Mellingers, 1972).\r\nKeeping this in view, the present study of genetic diversity identification between selected genotypes and local cultivars of Indian mustard done by cluster distance analysis.\r\nMATERIALS AND METHODS\r\nThe present investigation was carried out at Students Instructional Farm of Acharya Narendra Deva University of Agriculture and Technology, Kumarganj, Ayodhya consisting of 60 Indian mustard genotypes including three checks taken from the Department of Genetics and Plant Breeding. Geographically, this place is located at an altitude of 113 meters above from mean sea level in between 26.47°N latitude, 82.12°E longitude. This area falls in sub-tropical zone (Indo-gangatic plain) and the soil texture is characterized by silty loam in nature having 0.40% organic carbon 2.21dSm-1 EC, and 45 ESP, 9.2 pH. The climate of district Ayodhya is semi-arid with hot summer and cold winter. The genotypes long with checks were sown in Augmented Block Design during rabi 2021-2022 to estimate the variability and heritability for various traits. Each genotype was planted in two rows of 5m long and 45cm apart; plant to plant distance was maintained 15cm by thinning. All the recommended cultural practices were followed to raise a healthy crop.\r\nFive plants in each genotype were taken randomly for each treatment in each replication and tagged for recording observations for twelve metric characters viz., days to 50% flowering, days to maturity, plant height (cm), number of primary branches per plant, number of secondary branches per plant, length of main raceme (cm), number of siliquae on main raceme, number of seeds per siliqua, biological yield per plant (g), harvest index (%), 1000-seed weight (g) and seed yield per plant (g).\r\nGenetic divergence among sixty genotypes planted in augmented design was studied through Non-hierarchical Euclidean cluster analysis (Beale, 1969; Spark, 1973).\r\nRESULTS AND DISCUSSION\r\nThe non-hierarchical Euclidean cluster analysis was studied to survey the genetic divergence among sixty Indian mustard germplasms on the basis of twelve quantitative characters. The outcome is being described as follows:\r\nDistributions of genotypes in different clusters: The 60 genotypes of Indian mustard were grouped into six clusters (Table 1) (Fig. 1). Cluster I and IV highest genotypes i.e., 13 each followed by cluster VI with 10 genotypes and cluster I and V with 9 genotypes each. The lowest genotypes were noted in cluster III having 6 genotypes. Verma (2021) earlier also noted six clusters among ninety Indian mustard genotypes.\r\nAverage intra and inter cluster distance: The average intra and inter - cluster distance between different clusters is given in Table 2. The intra - cluster D2 values ranged from 2.084 (cluster II) to 2.529 (cluster III). The average inter cluster D2 values indicated that the most diverse groups were III and II (6.347) followed by cluster III and I (5.869), IV and I (4.739). The lowest inter cluster value was found among II and I (2.346) indicate that this group is less diverse. Earlier workers Verma (2021) also noted highest cluster distances among Cluster III&II and Cluster II&V respectively.\r\nCluster group mean for 12 quantitative traits: The mean performance of all the 12 quantitative characters in various clusters is presented in Table 3. Cluster I showed highest mean for length of main raceme (81.24), number of siliques on main raceme (62.80), number of seeds per siliqua (16.81), biological yield per plant (62.27) and seed yield per plant (18.23); and lowest mean for days to 50% flowering (51.62). Cluster II showed highest mean for number of secondary branches per plant (21.92) while lowest mean performance for 1000-seeds weight (3.61). Cluster III exhibited highest mean for days to maturity (137.33), plant height (cm) (194.14), 1000-seeds weight (5.74) and harvest index (36.78) whereas it had lowest mean for number of primary branches per plant (5.75), number of secondary branches (12.92), length of main raceme (57.45) and number of seeds per siliqua (13.37). Cluster VI showed highest mean for days to 50% flowering (58.54) and it also showed lowest mean for number of siliques on main raceme (46.32) and biological yield per plant (46.93). Cluster V showed highest mean for number of primary branches per plant (7.63), and it did not show lowest mean for any trait. Cluster VI did not show highest mean for any trait under investigation while it showed lowest mean for harvest index (16.16). Devi (2017); Verma (2021) also noted similar results for most of the traits mentioned above.\r\n','Tarkeshwar, Shiva Nath, Govind Mishra, Amit Kumar Chaudhary, Rishabh Gupta, Ajeet Kumar Gupta and S.C. Vimal (2022). Genetic Diversity Analysis in Indian Mustard [Brassica juncea (L.) Czern and Coss.] Genotypes. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 14(2): 1571-1574.'),(5105,'134','Cultural and Nutritional Requirements for the Growth of Medicinal Mushroom Schizophyllum commune Fr.','M. Roja, G. Thiribhuvanamala*, K. Angappan, P. Geetha and D. Amirtham','6 Cultural and Nutritional Requirements for the Growth of Medicinal Mushroom Schizophyllum commune Fr. M. Roja.pdf','',1,'Schizophyllum commune Fr. is a medicinal mushroom renowned for its potential pharmacological and nutraceutical properties. To enhance the yield and explore its potential values it is necessary to investigate the cultural and nutritional conditions for the growth in detail. The investigation on the cultural characters of all isolates in potato dextrose agar medium showed the maximum colony diameter in isolate 1 (90.00mm) followed by isolate 8 (89.00mm) and isolate 2 (86.66mm). The maximum mycelial mat dry weight was recorded in the isolate 5 (2.33g/100mL) followed by isolate 2 (2.20g/100mL) and isolate 1 (2.00g/100mL). Of the different growth media tested, mushroom complete media (MCM) showed the maximum mycelial growth in all the isolates. Among the different carbon sources tested, sorbitol and mannitol supported the maximum mycelial growth in most of the selected isolates such as isolate 1 and isolate 4 (90.00mm) compared to other carbon sources. Similarly, among the different nitrogen sources tested peptone recorded maximum mycelial growth of (90.00mm) in isolate 2 when compared to all other nitrogen sources. The pH requirement for S. commune isolate 1 for its maximum mycelial growth (89.60mm) recorded in pH 5 and pH 6. And optimum temperature of 25 to 30˚C was quite suitable for the mycelial growth of S. commune where isolate 4 and isolate 8 recorded maximum mycelial growth (90.00mm).','Schizophyllum commune, Different media, Carbon source, Nitrogen source, pH, Temperature, Colony diameter','Schizophyllum commune is an edible medicinal mushroom that is furnished with lot of medicinal values related to human health including the antioxidant, antidiabetic, anticancerous potential compounds. Development of cultivation technology is indeed important to tap its ample potential values. Hence, the results emanated from the in vitro investigations on the nutritional requirements like different culture media, carbon nitrogen sources and cultural requirements like different pH and temperature studied will be useful for selection of substrates to take up cultivation and tap more yield. ','INTRODUCTION\r\nSchizophyllum commune Fr. is a medicinal mushroom that grows naturally on decaying woods, thus the name white rot fungus. This mushroom is also known as Split gill mushroom, and the name Schizophyllum commune is derived from the Greek terms Schiza, which means \"split,\" and commune, which means \"common\" (Mahajan 2022). The fruiting body of S. commune is tiny flabellilform (fan shaped) white stipeless cap with hairs. It is consumed as food and medicine in number of nations, including Korea, Malaysia, China, Thailand, Vietnam, and North East India due to its high medicinal properties. S. commune mushroom possess a storey of potential compounds that have antimicrobial, anticancerous, antidiabetic activities against many human diseases (Chandrawanshi et al., 2017). Extracellular melanin by S. commune showed antibacterial, antifungal activity and anti cell proliferation activity against human epidermoid larynx carcinoma cell lines (Arun et al., 2015). The polysaccharide schizophyllan from S.commune is known for its high medicinal value. Chandrawanshi et al. (2019) reported that different solvent extracts of S. commune possess antidiabetic activity. The bioactive compounds from the mushroom S. commune is also reported to have antimicrobial property against plant pathogens. Dutta et al. (2019) reported that the active compound schizostatin from S. commune is responsible for the antifungal activity against the plant pathogens of pepper. Considering its importance, the cultivation technique is required for the large scale production and for its other industrial use. Thiribhuvanamala et al. (2020) reported that S. commune was a good source of lignin degrading fungus that has high lignocellulolytic machinery and scope in industrial applications. Thus the cultivation could be done on substrates that are rich in lignin content. Good substrates for the growth of the mushroom include paddy straw, wheat straw, saw dust etc., (Singh et al., 2021; Dasanayaka and Wijeyaratne 2017). All the fungi require good cultural and nutritional conditions for their growth. Limited studies were carried out in the field of cultural and nutritional requirements of S. commune. S. commune have little gastronomic appeal due to its rough texture and small fruiting body size. In order to increase the yield and tap its bioactive compounds from S. commune which could be in pharmaceutical and nutraceutical wide applications, the cultural and nutritional requirements is investigated in detail.\r\nMATERIALS AND METHODS\r\nThe cultures of S. commune - Isolate 1, Isolate 2, Isolate 3, Isolate 4, Isolate 5, Isolate 6 and Isolate 7 obtained from Directorate of Mushroom Research, Solan; Isolate 8 and Isolate 9 from Department of Plant Pathology, TNAU, Coimbatore and Isolate 10 from Indira Gandhi Krishi Vishwavidyalaya, Raipur were used in this study.\r\nA. Colony diameter measurement\r\nUnder in vitro conditions, the cultural characteristics of ten different S.commune mushroom isolates were investigated. In a Petri plate, 15mL of sterilized Potato Dextrose Agar media was poured and allowed to solidify. A 9 mm mycelial disc was taken from a 7-day old culture of different isolates and placed in the centre of a Petri plate aseptically. The plates were incubated at room temperature for further observations. On 3rd, 5th and 7th days after inoculation, growth characters such as colony diameter, colony colour and morphology were recorded.\r\nB. Estimation of Biomass production.\r\nTo estimate the biomass production (fresh and dry weight) of different S. commune isolates, a 9 mm mycelial disc of S. commune mushroom isolates from a 7-day old culture was inoculated in Potato dextrose broth and incubated at room temperature. After 10 days of inoculation, the mycelial mat was separated from the broth using Whatman No. 1 filter paper and oven dried at 50 to 55°C to determine the amount of biomass produced. Fresh and dry weights of mycelial mats were recorded for each isolate.\r\nC. Effect of different media for the growth of S. commune\r\nSix different culture media (Czapek Dox (CPZ), Malt extract agar (MEA), Mushroom complete media (MCM), Oat meal agar (OMA), Sabouraud dextrose agar (SDA) and Yeast-malt extract (YME) were evaluated for the growth of S. commune isolates as described by Imtiaj et al. (2008). These media was prepared with their respective composition and sterilized in an autoclave. After sterilization the media poured into the sterilized petriplate and 9 mm diameter disc of culture was taken from a 7 days old culture grown on PDA medium and placed in the centre of each plate of six different culture media. After 7 days of incubation period at room temperature, mycelial growth was recorded.\r\nD. Effect of different carbon and nitrogen sources for the growth of S. commune\r\nBased on the results of the cultural growth characters of S. commune in PDA media, the five \r\nS. commune isolates (Isolate 1, Isolate 2, Isolate 4, Isolate 5 and Isolate 8) were chosen for further tests. The effect of various carbon and nitrogen sources on the growth of selected S. commune isolates was tested. Different carbon source viz., fructose, lactose, sorbitol, mannitol and dextrin was added to the basal medium at the rate of 4% and different nitrogen sources such as sodium nitrtate, calcium nitrate, potassium nitrate, glycine and petone was added to PDA medium at the rate of 1%. The medium containing different carbon and nitrogen sources was sterilized in an autoclave at 121°C for 15 minutes. A 9mm mycelial disc of 7 days old culture of selected isolates was placed separately in the centre of the Petri plate. The plates were incubated at room temperature for colony diameter measurement and morphology (Adejoye et al., 2007).\r\nE. Effect of different Temperature and pH for the growth of S. commune\r\nBased on the results of the cultural growth characters of S. commune in PDA media, the five \r\nS. commune isolates (Isolate 1, Isolate 2, Isolate 4, Isolate 5 and Isolate 8) were chosen for further tests. The effects of different temperature and pH for the selected S. commune isolates were tested. PDA media was prepared and it was sterilized in an autoclave at 121°C for 15 minutes. A 9mm mycelial disc of 7 days old culture of selected isolates was placed separately in the centre of the Petri plate. The plates were incubated at 20°C, 25°C, 30°C, 35°C and 40°C temperatures to observe the suitable temperature for the mycelial growth. Similarly the PDA media was prepared and adjusted to different pH viz., pH 5 to 9 to test its effect on mycelial growth of S. commune (Kumar et al., 2017).\r\nRESULT AND DISCUSSION\r\nA. Colony diameter measurement\r\nThe colony diameter was measured at 3, 5 and 7 days after inoculation. The maximum mycelial diameter at 5 DAI was recorded in isolate 1 (90.00mm) followed by isolate 8 (89.00mm), isolate 2 (88.66mm), isolate 5 (87.33mm) and isolate 4 (86.66mm). The colony morphology of the S. commune was pure white mycelium with varying texture such as radiating, cottony, fluffy, flat mycelium depending upon the isolates. Conclusively all the cultures attained the full plate mycelial coverage at 7DAI. This shows that the full plate mycelial coverage could be attained after 5 to 7 DAI. The data on colony diameter is included in the Table 1. \r\nB. Estimation of Biomass Production\r\nThe maximum mycelial dry weight was recorded from isolate 5 (2.33g/100mL) followed by isolate 2 (2.20g /100mL), isolate1 (2.00g /100mL), isolate 10 (1.96g /100mL) and isolate 4 (1.033g /100mL). The reduced mycelia dry weight was recorded in isolate 8 (0.16 g / 100mL), isolate 9 (0.20 g / 100mL) and isolate 7 (0.30 g / 100mL). The fresh and dry weight recorded for all the isolates is included in the Table 1.\r\nC. Effect of different culture media for the growth of S. commune\r\nAmong the tested culture media, Mushroom complete media supported the growth of S. commune followed by Malt extract agar, Oat meal agar, Sabouraud dextrose agar, Yeast malt extract agar medium. CPZ medium was found to be poor performing medium. The mycelial growth was dense in MCM and Oat meal agar medium whereas sparse mycelial growth was observed in Malt extract agar medium and SDA medium and moderately thin mycelial growth in Yeast extract agar medium and poor growth in CPZ medium. All the tested isolates recorded maximum colony diameter (90.00mm) at 7DAI in MCM. Whereas in MEA the maximum colony diameter was observed in isolate 5 (90.00mm) and isolate 4 (89.66mm). The maximum colony diameter (89.33mm) in OMA was recorded in isolate 1 and isolate 10. The colony diameter in SDA was maximum in isolate 1 (87.33mm) and isolate 10 (85.33mm). YME recorded the maximum colony diameter in isolate 8 (78.33mm) and isolate 4 (76.66mm). \r\nObservations showed that there was no growth even after the 15 days of incubation in CPZ medium after a certain growth of the mycelium. Conclusively MCM was found to be the best media for S. commune next to PDA medium based on the mycelial growth. This is similar to the report by Imtiaj et al. (2008) where they found that MCM supported compact mycelial density. Kumar et al. (2017) reported that S. commune strains grow moderately in MEA medium which is similar to this report. Czapek Dox did not support the mycelial growth of Macrolepiota procera (Shim et al., 2005) and Phellinus spp. Hur et al. (2008) which is similar to our study. The colony diameter of different isolates in different media is mentioned in the Table 2.\r\nD. Effect of different carbon and nitrogen sources for the growth of S. commune\r\nInvestigation on different carbon sources revealed that sorbitol, fructose, mannitol were most suitable carbon sources for the growth of the selected S. commune isolates and recorded the maximum colony diameter in most of the isolates which is similar to the report by (Alam et al. (2010). Sorbitol and mannitol recorded the maximum colony diameter in isolate 1 and isolate 4 (90.00mm). Contrarily, lactose showed maximum mycelial growth and dextrin showed the moderate mycelial growth compared to other carbon sources as reported by Imtiaj et al. (2008). Different nitrogen sources like peptone, sodium nitrate and calcium nitrate showed maximum mycelial growth as compared to glycine and potassium nitrate which recorded the moderate mycelial growth. The peptone as nitrogen source recorded the maximum colony diameter in isolate 2 (90.00) and isolate 4 (88.33mm). Similar to our study, Niederpruem et al. (1964) reported peptone as good nitrogen source for the growth of S. commune. Deshaware et al. (2021) indicated that peptone and sodium nitrate was suitable nitrogen sources for the growth of Cantharellus cibarius. In our study, calcium nitrate was also suitable for the growth of mycelium which is similar to the report by Alam et al. (2010); Imtiaj et al. (2008) where they mentioned that calcium nitrate was the most suitable nitrogen sources for the growth of S. commune. The colony growth diameter for carbon and nitrogen sources after 5 days of inoculation is included in the Table 3. \r\nE. Effect of different Temperature and pH for the growth of S. commune\r\nBased on the investigation on different temperatures, 25˚C and 30˚C was found to be optimum temperatures for the good mycelial growth. The maximum colony diameter at 25˚C was recorded in the isolate 4 (90.00mm) and isolate 8 (90.00mm). The maximum colony diameter at 30˚C was recorded in the isolate 4 (90.00mm) and isolate 8 (90.00mm).These observations clear that 25˚C to 30˚C serves as an optimum temperature for the growth of S. commune. This was analog to the findings by Adejoye et al. (2007); Kumar et al. (2017) as they reported that 25˚C to 30˚C serves as a suitable temperature for the growth of S. commune. Whereas moderate mycelial growth was observed in case of 20˚C. Very slow and poor growth was observed in case of 35˚C and 40˚C. The investigation on the different pH showed that pH 5 and pH6 was most suitable for the growth of S. commune and the maximum colony diameter was observed in the isolate 1 (89.60mm) and isolate 4 (89.60mm) at pH 5. In case of pH 6 the maximum colony diameter was recorded in isolate 1 (89.60mm) and isolate 5 (89.60mm). The rest of the pH also showed good mycelial growth. Emayavarman et al. (2021) reported that the maximum mycelial growth was observed at pH 8 and pH 6 in elm oyster mushroom. The colony growth diameter of different temperature and pH was included in the Table 4.\r\nStatistical Analysis: The design of experiments i.e. CRD and statistical analyses were followed as suggested by Gomez and Gomez (1984). Statistical software used for the analysis of data is AGRES (Developed by the Department of Physical science, TNAU, Coimbatore).\r\n','M. Roja, G. Thiribhuvanamala, K. Angappan, P. Geetha and D. Amirtham (2022). Cultural and Nutritional Requirements for the Growth of Medicinal Mushroom Schizophyllum commune Fr.. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 14(2a): 32-37.'),(5106,'134','Amino Acid Composition of Moringa Leaf Protein','Swapna Sree Meduri*, P.S. Geetha, S. Kanchana, M.L. Mini and Pasupathi E.','7 Amino Acid Composition of Moringa Leaf Protein Swapna Sree Meduri.pdf','',1,'This study aimed to investigate amino acid profile of moringa protein isolate of laboratory extracted and market sample. The extraction of laboratory protein sample was carried out using alkali-acid iso-electric precipitation method. The glutamate is most abundant amino acid followed by aspartic acid and similar trend was noticed in market samples viz., glutamate and aspartic acid. The crude protein content and predicted Protein Efficiency Ratio (PER) of extracted sample- 90.26g/100g, and 1.315g/100g, market sample- 77.85g/100g and 0.40 g/100g, total amino acids of both samples 65.47, 26.24 and essential amino acids with histidine 32.76%, 37.5% and without histidine 30.97%, 36.5% respectively. Based on whole hen’s egg as a reference protein, the limiting amino acids found were methionine, cystine and valine. It is best complementary supplement for combat malnutrition and shows other therapeutic effects. Difference observed in both samples may be due to varieties of moringa leaves, method of extraction, drying and storage conditions respectively. ','Moringa protein isolates, Amino acid profile, Essential amino acids','The findings of this study were concluded that amino acid concentration was seen more in MPI sample compare to IMP sample this may be due to series of reaction occurs in the extraction and drying time. Also difference observed in both samples may be due to varieties of plants from where it procured method of extraction, drying and storage conditions respectively. Due to increase in preference of plant protein by most of population both protein samples have balanced proteins according to FAO so individual amino acid has its role in human body so suggestion is to moringa consume protein at least one time in a day. ','INTRODUCTION \r\nThe world\'s population projected to reach 9.1 billion by 2050, approximately to 34% from present FAO (2050). Quite apart from expansion of population, steadily increasing clamour for protein is influenced by cultural developments or improvements such as increasing wealth, expanded industrialization, and geriatric populaces, where the role of protein in healthy ageing is well known, as well as greater recognition of the role of protein in a balanced diet (Henchion et al., 2020). Protein is a nutrient that has been gaining popularity among consumers, with demand for plant sources of protein increasing (Hertzler et al., 2020). Plant-based sources of dietary proteins dominate the supply of proteins (57%) among all available sources FAO (2010). Plant-based proteins are considered as vegan proteins since they contain substantial proportion of amino acids, are quickly absorbed by the body, and assist in the treatment of a variety of pathological disorders. Since it is costly and complex to extract an adequate amount of animal proteins, plant proteins are a feasible alternative for strengthening the human nutritional status (Schillberg et al., 2019). Diet which is high in animal protein has also been linked to health issues like cardiovascular and diabetic diseases for example the replacement of 5% vegan protein for animal protein was attributed to a 23 percent reduction in the risk of type 2 diabetes (Malik et al., 2016). Additionally people are extremely concerned about animal welfare, growing number of people are becoming vegetarians, vegans or flexitarians (Fischer et al., 2020).\r\nM. oleifera is a quick growing perennial angiosperm tree belongs to the family of Moringaceae. Based on different regions it is called by various names like drumstick, horse radish, kelor, marango, benzolive, maluoggay and other names. It received attention as socioeconomic importance both in torrid regions. Moringa oleifera consists of all edible parts such as leaf, stem, flowers and pods which are highly nutritious and considered as nutraceuticals. Because of high protein value their will be demand as supplement and in food application industries. Oleifera is called as multifunctional plant. In herbal medicine field it has established accelerated growth both in developed and developing countries due to its intimate source and lowers side effects. Nearly 70% people are still adopting it as a non-allopathic medicine. From ancient times it is pre-owned as health curing agents. People found Moringa oleifera as super food to the individual suffering from hunger and deprivation. Because of its high protein quality, moringa leaves have been widely used among the medical specialists and food nutritionists to serve malnutrition and other ailments (Fahey, 2005). M. oleifera protein can compete effectively with protein from animal sources, significantly in relation of human body growth and enzymatic activity (Benhammouche, T et al., 2021). \r\nFor the development of dietary supplements and nutritional supplements, it is critical to have an extraction process that facilitates a maximum output of vegan protein extract with high functional attributes and nutrients. The most common protein extraction method involves exposing tissue to distilled water or other weak buffers, which stipulate cell rupture and the release of intracellular proteins as a consequence of the hypotonic effect that develops over time (Maehre et al., 2018). Other options entails aqueous salt or alkaline extraction, which is one of the most frequently used approaches in the laboratory for the isolation of plant-based proteins because high alkalinity aids in extracting leaf protein by breaking down hydrogen bonds, disrupting leaf tissue, and rising protein solubility (Rawdkuen 2020). The acid extraction technique is an excellent approach for isolating leaf proteins since the minimum protein solubility for M. oleifera leaf proteins is obtained at the isoelectric point between pH 3.2 and 4.5. When compared to concentrates extracted by heat coagulation or the addition of cationic or anionic flocculants, M. oleifera leaf concentrate is acidified and has the highest amino acid concentration and solubility (Santamaria-Fernández et al., 2019). The objective of the study is to isolate moringa protein concentrate, production of moringa powder and evaluate the amino acid composition.\r\nMATERIALS AND METHODS\r\nFresh leaves Moringa oleifera were collected from locally available variety farmers of Madurai.\r\nPreparation of moringa powder. The moringa leaf powder production was carried out by using (Rawdkuen 2020) with minor modifications. Collected leaves were further processed like detaching the leaves and washed them under running water. Allowed it to dry the leaves in cabinet drier at temperature of 60ᵒC for 72hrs until the moisture content reaches of 4%. Make the dried leaves in to fine grind powder using mixer and stored under refrigerated conditions for further analysis.\r\nPreparation of moringa protein isolate. The moringa leaf protein isolation was carried out by using (Soo et al., 2021) with minor modifications. The finely grounded fresh moringa leaf powder of 150g was mixed with 3L of water and maintained around pH of 9 by adding 1M NaOH solution. The solution was stirred for 45min at 800 RPM in a room temperature by using magnetic stirrer. Centrifuge the stirred solution at 6000 RPM for 20min at room temperature and supernatant was collected. The pH was adjusted to 4 by adding 1N HCl, allowed it to stand overnight at room temperature. The precipitated supernatant centrifuged at 6000 RPM for 10 minutes to separate precipitate from supernatant. Then collected protein precipitate was neutralized by 1M NaOH followed by freeze drying below -60ᵒ C for approximately 2.5hrs. Collected the freeze-dried protein isolate and packed in an airtight container and stored at room temperature for further analysis.\r\n Crude protein:\r\nNitrogen content of moringa protein isolate was estimated by using kjeldhal method and obtained nitrogen value was multiplied with 6.25 (factor) to get crude protein value (Ma and Zuazaga, 1942). \r\n\r\nNitrogen (%)= (sample titre value-blank titre value×14.01×0.1 (normality of HCl) )/(weight of sample×1000)×100\r\nProtein (%) = Nitrogen (%) × conversion factor (6.25)\r\n \r\nAmino acid composition: Amino acid profile of samples was determined both in and moringa oleifera leaf protein isolate and industrially processed sample by using (Kraft et al., 2018). The powder samples were taken. Mobile phase A pH was adjusted with formic acid dissolving ammonium bicarbonate in 20mM water. Dissolving boric acid in water and pH was adjusted to 9.2 by using 10M NaOH, 0.2 M borate buffer was prepared. Mercaptanopropionic acid and o-phthaldialdehyde were dissolved in 10mL borate buffer solution. Prior to analysis all reagents were kept at 5°C for derivatization. Dilution of commercially available amino acid or 2.5mM of stock solution of amino butyric acid, and other amino acids in 0.1M HCl yielded 100mM standard. Sample was transferred to 1.5mL vial. Transfer of 45μL of 0.2M borate buffer. Mixing and allow it to stay for 1minute and inject 1μL of mixture was injected for HPLC analysis.\r\nPredicted protein efficiency ratio: PER was calculated according to (Alsmeyer et al., 1974) by using the given formula \r\nP-PER = -0.468+0.454(Leu)-0.105 (Tyr)\r\nRESULTS AND DISCUSSION\r\nThe crude protein content was analysed in commercially available moringa protein and from extracted moringa protein. The results demonstrated that extracted protein isolate from moringa exhibits higher amount of crude protein viz., 90.26% and commercially available protein is about 77.85 respectively. The results of isolated moringa leaf protein at laboratory level show similar trend with rice protein isolate studied by (Zhang et al., 2018). The variation between the samples due to the effect of some crucial factors viz., extraction method, temperature, pH, drying techniques and other. The process of soaking for six to eight hours may increase the retention of protein, when freeze drying prolongs the protein get denaturation due to raise of temperature. In comparison with spray drying and freeze drying, freeze drying is better to retain crude protein without loss of structure and some functional properties of protein. When protein sample were spray dried and subjected to heat at 180°C there may be some denaturation. Protein content significantly depends up on the drying of leaf according to (Soo et al., 2021). There may be significant difference in amino acid composition also.\r\nThe amino acid compositions of both samples were mentioned in Table 1&2. In this study the amino acid concentration differed in samples due to extraction, production environment and agricultural practices. The moringa protein isolate was high in glutamate of 13.79 (g/100g) among the all amino acids, second position is occupied by acidic amino acid aspartic acid of 9.44 (g/100g). cystine and methionine are the least concentrated amino acids of 0.63 (g/100g) and 0.19 (g/100g) respectively. In industrially processed moringa protein isolate we can notice the same trend but the concentration may vary viz., glutamate 6.221 (g/100g), aspartic acid 4.108 (g/100g). According to (Adeyeye et al., 2010) noticed that difference in lysine, histidine, arginine and cystine were severely impaired when protein is subjected to heat, improper processing and storage. By considering the point stated by (Adeyeye et al., 2010) the similar observations was noticed in this study. The amino acid concentration was noticed more in freeze dried sample compared to spray dried commercial sample (Industrially moringa protein). The total hydrophilic and hydrophobic amino acid composition was significantly higher in laboratory freeze dried moringa protein compare to industrially processed protein. The same was noticed by (Branchs et al., 2017) in the study of soya protein isolates. The (Hayeti et al., 2019) stated that glutamic acid concentration will be high due to maintenance of isoelectric pH during extraction process the similar trend was also noticed in grass protein isolate. (Branchs et al., 2017) stated that amino acid concentration decides the behaviour of protein. According to (Nakai, and Modler 1996) the proportion of hydrophobic and hydrophilic amino acids has impact on solubility, water binding ability and surface characteristics. The number of hydrophilic groups in the protein isolate increases the solubility. Even though freeze dried protein isolate is rich in amino acid composition compare to industrially moringa protein (IMP). \r\nYoung and Pellett (1994) noticed that both have balanced amino acid content so it is useful for human consumption. Stadtlander and Becker (2017) revealed that the major non-essential amino acid in moringa leaves were glutamic acid, aspartic acid, arginine, proline, glycine and also stated that the crude protein content ranged between 188g/Kg to 277g/Kg in different varieties and species of moringa. \r\nEach amino acids plays crucial and important role in human life viz., valine- stimulates the growth and regeneration of muscle, threonine- fat metabolism, immune function, component of skin and connective tissue, Leucine- regulate blood sugar levels and growth hormones, isoleucine- plays role in haemoglobin production and energy regulation, lysine- protein synthesis, calcium absorption, hormone and enzyme production, histidine- digestion and sleep awake cycle respectively.\r\nAbundant parameters are mentioned in Table 3. The total amino acids composition of both samples were 65.47g/100g and 26.24g/100g highest total amino acids (TAA) was noticed in moringa protein isolate (MPI) samples which was according with (Benhammouche et al., 2021) of value were found to be around 89.8mg/g. The percentage of total essential amino acids with histidine and without histidine of both samples was ranged between 30 - 37%, percentage of total non-essential amino acids of both samples were ranged between 64-67% respectively. The results were somewhat familiar with (Rawdkuen 2020). Most of our results were better in many of the essential amino acids compare to pumpkin (Olaofe et al., 1994). According to the results obtained in both samples the amino acids values are little higher or within range according to (FAO/WHO 2007). The aromatic amino acids in MPI was 10.06 % and IMPI 10.09 % the obtained results were in contrast with (Moyo et al., 2011), sulphur containing amino acids were 1.25% and 0.15% were in similar trend with (Alain Mune Mune M et al., 2016). The lysine, valine threonine are high in both samples which were in contrast with (Olaofe et al., 2013) While it is recognised that cystine can provide a portion of methionine requirement, WHO/FAO/UNICEF (1985) does not specify the proportion of total sulphur containing amino acids that cystine can meet. Most animal protein are low in cystine, howerever many vegetable proteins have far cystine and methionine. As a result, Cystine is unlikely to account for more than half of the total sulphur amino acids in animal protein (FAO/WHO, 1991). The predicted protein efficiency ratio (P-PER) of both the samples were 1.315 for moringa protein isolate (MPI) and 0.40 for industrial moringa protein (IMP) respectively. According to (Lalitha et al., 2020) the PER value was ranged between (2.8 to 3.3). \r\nAmino acid score based on provisional amino acids were mentioned in table-5 limiting amino acid content of both samples were methionine + cystine with values of 0.23 and 0.01 respectively. There is no significant difference between MPI and IMP samples. According to (Adeyeye et al., 2010) in order to fulfil the requirement of sole protein diet 2.3 or 1.96 times more consumption in needed. \r\nTable 6 contains essential amino acid score based on whole hens egg. Methionine, cystine, valine are the limiting amino acids in MPI and IMP respectively. The following results of EAA, TAA, TNEAA, EAA score following results were obtained with significant difference 0f P <0.5. ','Swapna Sree Meduri, P.S. Geetha, S. Kanchana, M.L. Mini and Pasupathi E. (2022). Amino Acid Composition of Moringa Leaf Protein. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 14(2a): 38-43.'),(5107,'134','Study on Seasonal Incidence of Insect Pests in Rice (Oryza sativa L.) Ecological Engineering Field','E. Sreelatha*, U. Sai Prasoona, B. Shailaja and S. Jesu Rajan','8 Study on Seasonal Incidence of Insect Pests in Rice _Oryza sativa L._ Ecological Engineering Field E. Sreelatha.pdf','',1,'The present experiment was carried out at Ecological Engineering Research Field, NIPHM, Rajendranagar, Hyderabad to study the seasonal incidence of insect pests of rice crop, during kharif 2020-21. The yellow stem borer incidence was started from 2nd week of July and the pest population reached its highest level during the 4th week of September. The leaf folder and gundhi bug infestation reached its highest level during 4th week of August and 4th week of September, respectively. Brown plant hopper and green leaf hopper appeared in rice crop from August to October and the population gradually decreased as the crop reached the harvesting stage. Grass hopper observed in rice crop during 2nd week of August and gained highest level during 1st week of October. Rice butterfly was first observed during 4th week of July and reached its highest level during 4th week of September. These findings will be helpful for proper and timely management of insect pests in rice ecosystem.','Yellow stem borer, Leaf folder, Gundhi bug, Brown plant hopper, Seasonal incidence, Abiotic factors, Ecological Engineering','The present research study on insect pests of rice revealed that, during vegetative phase of plant the incidence of yellow stem borer on the per cent dead hearts were observed highest and per cent white ears were highest during reproductive phase of the crop. Therefore, control measures to be taken in early stages to avoid loss in reproductive phase. The leaf folder infestation started during 2nd week of July and recorded its peak population during 2nd week of September. The rainfall and average temperature didn’t get any affect on leaf folder population as so, it was better to take preventive measures from July month to October month. Gundhi bug attacked the crop during grain filling to milking stage of crop and causes greater loss by producing chaffy grains and they can be easily controlled by collecting sweep nets in observed period. The seasonal incidence revealed that the population of brown plant hopper was appeared in rice crop during 1st week of September i.e. the population increased with decreased in rainfall as negative correlation was observed with rainfall. The population of green leaf hopper was observed during 2nd week of September and population decreased when the crop attained maturity. As the field being maintained without use of pesticides and fertilizers following ecological engineering principles, the insect pests population were recorded below ETL level. For proper and timely management of the insect pests of ecological engineering rice field, these findings could be helpful.','INTRODUCTION\r\nRice (Oryza sativa L.) is an important cereal crop in the world, serving as staple diet for millions of peoples and stands second in the world after wheat in area and production. In Asia almost 90% of the rice is grown and consumed (Anonymous, 2006). In India it is cultivated on an area of 44.00 million hectares with a production of 104.80 million tonnes and productivity of 2177 kg/ha. In Telangana state of India annually rice is grown on 44.00 lakh acres and produces 7.34 million tonnes. Worldwide upto 37% rice crop is damaged by many insects species. An average loss of 25-30% in paddy production due to the damage of insect pests was recorded in India (Dhaliwal and Arora 2010) where as in the state of Telangana about 40-50 % loss is observed (Anonymous, 2017). \r\nThe rice crop is subjected to damage by many number of insect pests, among them the yellow stem borer, Scirpophaga incertulas (Walker) is the major insect pest causing dead hearts and white ears leading to major economic damage (Satpathi et al., 2012). The rice leaf folder, Cnaphalocrocis medinalis (Guenee), which was considered as a minor pest, during last decades has assumed a major pest status (Nanda et al., 2000). The larvae fold the leaves and scrape the green tissues showing scorching and drying symptoms. The yield loss, to the extent of 5 to 25% was reported due to the damage caused by leaf folder (Kulgagod et al., 2011).\r\nThe sucking pests like Brown plant hopper (BPH), Nilaparvata lugens (Stal); Green leaf hopper (GLH), Nephotettix virescens and Rice gundhi bug, Leptocorisa acuta (Thunberg) causes damage by sucking plant cell sap. The brown plant hopper (BPH) and green leaf hopper (GLH) are economically important pests as they oviposit in plant tissues and suck sap that leads to plant wilting and hopper burn symptoms (Turner et al., 1999). They cause direct damage to rice crop by feeding on the phloem sap and indirectly by transmitting viral diseases like grassy stunt virus and tungro virus (Sogawa, 1992). Gundhi bug sucks the sap from individual grains in milky stage and make them chaffy. \r\nRecently, ecological based pest management strategies in rice crop are gaining importance. In above point of view, the main component of any pest management programme is to regular monitoring of field, study the incidence period of pest and its distribution on crop. Seasonal incidence study helps, in planning need based plant protection strategies which shows exact peak activity and free periods of insect pests on crop. The insect pest population may vary due to various abiotic (environmental factors) and biotic (biological control) factors of an area. The present study was conducted, to know the effect of abiotic factors on the incidence of pest population on rice crop grown at NIPHM ecological engineering field during kharif 2020-2021.\r\nMATERIALS AND METHODS\r\nThe experiment was conducted during the kharif 2021, at Ecological Engineering Research Farm, NIPHM, Rajendranagar, Hyderabad, India. In the experiment, the rice variety RNR-15048 was sown on 28th June 2021. The seedlings of sufficient age were transplanted to the main field during last week of July with a spacing of 20 × 15 cm2 in hills and all the agronomical practices viz., irrigation, intercultural operations and bioinput applications were followed as recommended by ecological engineering principles to raise the rice crop. No pesticides application was followed throughout the crop period, to get a natural pest incidence on the crop.\r\nCollection of Insect pests and their observation. In rice crop the seasonal incidence of insect pests was studied on an area of 100 m2. The nursery was raised beside to the main experiment plot, in order to study the population build up of insect pests. The pest population was recorded in this unprotected area at 7 days interval from the occurrence of pest, both from nursery and main field and was continued upto maturity. The incidence of insect pests were observed and recorded on 10 plants selected randomly. The population count on yellow stem borer was taken on number of dead hearts/white ears and total number of tillers/panicles from 10 randomly selected plants. The per cent incidence (dead heart/white ears) was calculated as follows\r\nPercent incidence = (Number of dead hearts/white ears)/(Total number of tillers/panicles)× 100\r\nIn case of leaf folder number of damaged leaves and total leaves from 10 randomly selected plants were observed. The percentage of leaf damage was calculated as follows\r\nPercent incidence = (Number of damaged leaves by leaf folder )/( Total number of leaves ) × 100\r\n\r\nIn case of rice butterfly number of damaged leaves and total leaves from 10 randomly selected plants were observed. The percentage of leaf damage was calculated as follows\r\nPercent incidence\r\n = ( Number of damaged leaves by rice butterfly )/(Total number of leaves)× 100\r\nIn case of leaf folder and rice butterfly the number of larvae observed per 10 hills were counted.\r\nThe number of nymph and adult stages of brown plant hopper, green leaf hopper, gundhi bug and grasshopper on all the 10 hills were recorded.\r\nSimultaneously, weather data was recorded from the meteorological observatory of Agricultural Research Institute, Professor Jayashanker Telangana State Agricultural University, Rajendranagar, Hyderabad, Telangana, India and was correlated with the pest population occurrence. A correlation coefficient method was used to find out the relationship, between the occurrence of the pest population and the weather parameters. \r\nThe correlation coefficient (r) analysis was carried out by using OP STAT.\r\nStatistical analysis. Weekly data of pest population was correlated with the prevailing climatic factors such as maximum, minimum and average temperature, morning, evening and average relative humidity and rainfall.\r\nRESULTS AND DISCUSSION\r\nIn the present study, yellow stem borer appeared in rice crop during 2nd week of July i.e. 29th S.W. (0.3%) and the pest population reached its peak of (6.6%) during the 4th week of September i.e. 39th S.W. (Table 1, Fig 1). But the actual action was started from 3rd week of August i.e. 34th S.W. Therefore, the maximum activity of pest is observed from August-September. In case of white ears there was a gradual increase, and reached its highest level during 3rd week of October i.e. 43rd S.W. (4.0%). The correlation analysis revealed that, the yellow stem borer incidence (% dead heart) showed a positive non-significant correlation, with morning, evening, average relative humidity and minimum temperature (r = 0.189, 0.412, 0.375 & 0.220) and a negative non-significant correlation observed with rainfall, maximum and average temperature (r = -0.036, -0.460 & 0.194) (Table 2). The per cent white ears, was found to be negative significant correlation with morning, evening, average relative humidity and minimum temperature (r = -0.682, -0.754, -0.762 & -0.735) and a negative non-significant correlation was observed with rainfall and average temperature (r = -0.225 & -0.262) and maximum temperature showed a positive non-significant correlation (r = 0.246). In the vegetative stage, the incidence of borers was higher as compared to reproductive stage. This results are similar to the findings of Sulagitti et al. (2017); Sharma et al., (2018) who reported that the maximum activity of yellow stem borer was observed during September-October. The present findings correlating abiotic factors with rice yellow stem borer are in line with the results of Pathak (1994); Pujari et al. (2007); Sulagitti et al. (2017) revealed that the peak activity of the stem borer is observed during the vegetative stage of the crop. Swetha and Chandra Pal (2017), reported that relationship of weather parameters, indicated that they play major role in creating the variation in rice yellow stem borer prevalence.\r\nThe incidence of leaf folder infestation begin during 3rdweek of July i.e. 30th S.W. (1 larvae/10 hills) and the larval population increased gradually till 2nd week of August i.e. 33rd S.W. with (5 larvae/10 hills) (Table 1, Fig. 1) and the pest population reached its highest level during 4th week of August i.e. 35th S.W. (6 larvae/ 10 hills). Later the population started decreasing, when the crop attained maturity. The correlation analysis revealed a positive non-significant relation with morning, evening, average relative humidity, minimum and average temperature (r = 0.282, 0.353, 0.348, 0.371 & 0.040) and showed negative non-significant with rainfall and maximum temperature (r = -0.159 & -0.255). \r\nThese findings, are similar to the results of Ahmed et al. (2010); Sharma et al. (2018) who reported that maximum, minimum and average temperature had no impact on leaf infestation by leaf folder. These results are also almost similar to the results of Bhumireddy et al. (2018); Khan et al. (2004) reported that minimum temperature, temperature gradient had a negative influence on leaf folder population.\r\nThe incidence of gundhi bug was noticed during 3rd week of August i.e. 34th S.W. (1/10 hills) and attained its highest level during 4th week of September i.e. 40th S.W. (6/ 10 hills). Correlation analysis revealed that negative significant correlation was observed with rainfall, morning, evening, average relative humidity, minimum, maximum and average temperature (r = -0.102, -0.300, -0.233, -0.256, -0.106, -0.168 &-0.174). The present results are in close association with the findings of Sulagitti et al., (2017) reported that highest number of rice gundhi bugs were recorded during the 4th week of October.\r\nBrown plant hopper, appeared in rice crop during 1st week of August i.e. 32nd S.W. (1/ 10 hills) and its activity gained actual shootout during the 1st week of September i.e. 36th S.W. (5/10 hills) and reached highest level during 1st week of October i.e. 41st S.W. (13/ 10 hills) (Table 1). Later on the population of brown plant hopper decreased as the crop reached the maturity. The correlation analysis revealed a positive non-significant correlation with maximum temperature (r = 0.026) and showed a negative non-significant correlation with rainfall, morning, evening, average relative humidity, minimum and average temperature (r = -0.064, -0.326, -0.294, -0.311, -0.153 & -0.072). A similar results of, incidence of brown plant hopper are in line with the finding of Patil et al. (2020); Anil Kumar et al. (2020).\r\nGreen leaf hopper was observed during 3rdweek of August i.e. 34th S.W. (1/10 hills) and its activity gained momentum during 3rd week of September i.e. 38th S.W. (5 / 10 hills) and reached highest level during 4th week of September 40th S.W. (9/10 hills). Later on the green leaf hopper population has decreased as the crop reached the maturity. The correlation analysis revealed a negative non-significant correlation with rainfall, morning, evening, average relative humidity, maximum, minimum and average temperature with the population (r = -0.078, -0.132, -0.159, -0.158, -0.090, -0.063 & -0.101) (Table 2, Fig. 1). Shamim et al. (2009); Begum et al. (2014) also found the highest number of green leaf hopper activity during October and November. Results of Shamim et al. (2009); Anuj and Saxena (1999) reported that green leaf hopper had a negative non-significant correlation with temperature, evening relative humidity and rainfall.\r\nIn rice crop, grass hopper appeared during 2nd week of August i.e. 33rd S.W. (1/10 hills) and its action gained during 3rd week of September i.e. 38th S.W. (5/10 hills) and gained highest level at 1st week of October (12/10 hills). Gradually, the population decreased as the crop reached the harvesting stage and the correlation analysis revealed a positive non-significant correlation with maximum and average temperature (r = 0.162 & 0.034) while the remaining weather parameters rainfall, morning, evening, average relative humidity and minimum temperature are negative and non-significantly correlated with the population (r = -0.008, -0.327, -0.350, -0.356 & -0.135).\r\nRice butterfly was first observed during 4th week of July i.e. 31st S.W. (1 larvae/10 hill) and its activity, gained actual shootout during 4th week of August i.e. 35th S.W. (7 larvae/10 hills) and reached its highest level during 4th week of September i.e. 40th S.W. (16/10 hills) and gradually decreased as the crop reached the harvesting stage around 2nd week of October. The correlation analysis of rice butterfly revealed a negative non-significant correlation with rainfall, morning, evening, average relative humidity, maximum, minimum and average temperature (r = -0.124, -0.214, -0.164, -0.181, -0.082, -0.029 & -0.075) while other weather parameters found negative non-significant correlation with the population (Table 2, Fig. 1). Similar to the present findings, Muchhala (2014) reported three distinct peaks during 38th, 42nd and 44th S.W. respectively. Major activity periods was observed from August to December.\r\n','E. Sreelatha, U. Sai Prasoona, B. Shailaja and S. Jesu Rajan (2022). Study on Seasonal Incidence of Insect Pests in Rice (Oryza sativa L.) Ecological Engineering Field. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 14(2a): 44-49.'),(5108,'134','Studies on Comparative Performance of Grafted Queen Colony and Naturally Reared Queen Colony of Italian Bee, Apis mellifera L. (Hymenoptera: Apidae) at Tiruchirapalli condition','Karthik Raja N., Kalyanasundaram A.*, Saminathan V. and Jeyaprakash P.','9 Studies on Comparative Performance of Grafted Queen Colony and Naturally Reared Queen Colony of Italian Bee, Apis mellifera L. _Hymenoptera Apidae_ at Tiruchirapalli condition Karthik Raja.pdf','',1,'The performance of grafted queens in comparison with the naturally reared queens was determined on (Apis mellifera L.) colonies. The results revealed that the grafted queen colony was significantly superior to the naturally reared queen colony. The maximum brood area of egg was 52.29 cm2, larva was 74.50 cm2 and pupa was 94.46 cm2 was observed in the grafted Queen colony. The honey stores and pollen reserves in the grafted Queen colony were 276.92 cm2 and 41.98 cm2 respectively. The queen weight and egg laying capability of the grafted Queen was 184.90 mgs and 1829.01 eggs per day respectively were significant over the naturally reared Queen. While the naturally reared Queen (T1) has a minimum brood area of egg was 39.42 cm2, larva was 58.17 cm2, pupa was 94.46 cm2. The honey stores was 253.13 cm2 and pollen reserves was 37.13 cm2 in the natural queen colony. The naturally reared Queen has a minimum mean weight of 171.40 mg among all treatments and egg laying capability of natural queen has 1660.00 eggs per day was lesser than the grafted Queen colony. The grafted queen colony has a significant difference (P>0.05) than the naturally reared queen colony among all the treatments. It is to fact that queens of Italian bee is not well exploited in tropical ecosystems, however in this study various techniques were identified and adopted to rear the mass queen rearing of Italian bees in tropical ecosystem for commercial exploitation.','Artificially Grafted Queen, Naturally reared Queen, Brood area, Queen weight, Egg laying capability','The present findings were consistent with previous research, which found that queen bees created by the grafting procedure performed better than queen bees produced through other methods (Doolittle, 1915; Abrol et al., 2005; Abbasi et al., 2015). Suryanarayanan et al. (1998) also reported that grafted Queen colonies were found good Quality than the naturally found Queen colonies in terms of brood performance and good structure of organization and coordination among the population. The present studies were coincide with the food consuming ratio of workers and the types of races that will have vigour performance and produce good quality queens was mainly based on the nutrient supplement and heredity characteristics given by Shehata (2009). In this study, the equipments such as grafting needle, cell cup, and grafting cup mounting was sterile with bees wax for easy acceptance of grafted larvae by the worker bees and free from microbial contamination (Dodologlu and Emsen 2007). The larval acceptance ratio was 68% by the worker bees in the queen less colony due to the Tropical conditions at Tiruchirapalli. The above larval acceptance according to the ecological conditions was given by Cengiz et al., (2009). The results proved that both the types of bee colonies are significantly differed under different treatments and the following trends were similar under different parameters of study. It also concluded that grafted queen colonies will provide higher stability due to the significant advantages of brood production and food reserves ability over the naturally found queen colony among all treatments in the study (El Din Haes, 1999). The Italian bee queens are important prospectus of the colony maintenance and development. By this study the commercial apiaries will produce mass reared the queens of Italian bees and will sold separately for the farmers for colony maintenance and for development in the commercial basis at tropical conditions like Tiruchirapalli regions.','INTRODUCTION\r\nArtificial queen rearing is a specified process for a commercial bee keeping practices. Queen bee is a vital working individual in a both commercial and non-commercial bee colony (Kumar and Singh 2004). It is only the main factor responsible for the stabilization and multiplication of the colony. Usually certain biotic and abiotic factors are responsible for the artificial queen rearing (Mahbobi et al., 2012). Abiotic factors include climatic factors and experimental factors such as queen cell cups etc. normalize the larval acceptance and provisioning of diet to the young larvae (Weiss, 1967). Queen supplementary is an essential process for the optimum production of brood and honey cells. Queen pheromones will mark the colony behaviour and its performance. The most important parameter is to recognize the features that influence the feeding responses of grafting larvae. All the premature larvae normally feeds on the royal jelly, on the basis of the extent, heavily fed upon a royal jelly the queen has to be emerged (Coby, 2007). The young one which fed less extent upon royal jelly, those individuals will become a worker population. Royal jelly is a milky white protein rich secretion from the pharyngeal gland of the worker honey bees (Eissa, 2007). Honey is the natural substance that was collected by A. mellifera foragers from the nearby floral sources and stored it in the comb to ripen and mature (Al Khalifa and Al-Arify 1999). The constituents of royal jelly will play a major role in the acceptance of royal jelly feed i.e., it is usually consists of 52 % of royal jelly primed with 5% of both honey and pollen supplements (Vuillaume, 1956). Various procedures of queen bee rearing have been adopted to stabilize the commercial bee keepers to interchange the older or fragile queen into a fresh queen to initiate the newer colonies (Shah, 2000). Queen bees are responsible for the placing of fertilized or unfertilized eggs according to the width of the cell (Laidlaw 1997). The queen lays single egg on the cell and also it placed the egg in a proper positioned manner while, a worker lays improper egg laying on the single cell and also the presence of queen will only provide proper coordination of activities in the colony (Mattila and Seeley 2007). A fully mated queen will lays about 2000 eggs/day throughout on flow season (Root and Root 1980). The present study meant at rearing of artificial queen through the certain adopted methods and evaluation of its performances with a naturally reared queen colony. Honey bee contains sufficient nutrients such as amino acids, vitamins and other phenol compounds (Guler et al., 2007).\r\nMATERIALS AND METHODS\r\nThe proportional culture of artificial and natural queen rearing of Italian bee colony was evaluated based on the presence of brood area of immature stages such as egg, larva and mature stage such as worker, drone populations at the count of seven days interval at bee garden at ADAC & RI, Tiruchirapalli (Latitude 10°45N and 78°36E) during the year 2021-2022. Six bee colonies of equal brood strength of Italian bee populations were selected for the experimentation.\r\nTreatment (T1) – Natural colony. This method comprised of a naturally formed and potent queen in the bee colonies. The queen was formed by the worker bees in the colonies by building one to many queen cells in the colony itself at regular intervals by built a specialized queen cell at a corner of the frames in that colony and lay the eggs on it. By feeding the royal jelly comparatively higher levels to the immature stages found in those naturally constructed cells, the natural queen was emerged. It was considered as treatment (T1).\r\nNatural colony consist of either it will be the superseded queen or emergency queen or swarming reared queen. The colony consists of six frames with optimum population. The performance of both the colonies was evaluated based on the presence of brood area i.e., number of egg cells, pupal cells, larval cells on them by measuring the brood area on both the colonies by using 25 cm2 grid scale. The separate count was taken to reveal the food store capacity of both the colonies by measuring the number of pollen cells and honey cells by using 25 cm2 grid scale. The weight of both queens i.e., natural queen and grafted queen was taken at regular intervals to evaluate the efficiency of both the colonies. These are different parameters to be studied for evaluation of these two different colonies.\r\nArtificially reared queen. The artificially reared queen or grafted queen was carried as treatment (T2).\r\nArtificial queen rearing procedure (Doolittle, 1915). \r\n(Treatment – T2) – Grafted queen colony or artificial reared queen colony\r\nMaterials requisite \r\n— Chinese needle \r\n— Melted bees wax\r\n— Cell starter colony\r\n— Nucleus colony\r\n— Artificial queen rearing frame. (consist of larval cell cups, cup holder and rotary frame cell\r\n For a grafting process we need an Italian bee colony with an optimum population with 7-8 frames and presence of adequate brood strength. For a grafting purpose we need only queen less colonies. Insert the queen rearing frame (as shown in the Fig. 1) into queen less bee hive for about 24 hours to make the components sterile and moulding of bees wax around the cup. Select one or two frames from the colony with good genetic structure and brood strength for selecting the early in star larvae from the population. Grafting 12-24 hours old worker cell larvae from the selected frame & placed it in a queen rearing cup by using Chinese grafting needle. After completion of grafting, insert the queen rearing frame into a Queen less colony for about 5-10 days. After 5-12 days of frame insertion, check the Queen emergence in the queen rearing cup and take the mature pupal Queen cells separately (as shown in the Fig. 2) and placed it in a plastic cage box with mesh like structure (as shown in the Fig 2). After hatching of queen cells from the wire mesh cage, placed the cages into the separated brood frame and then pinned into the queen less colony (one day old queen). After a day later releases the queen from the cage into the colony for allow to build brood in colony. The experimentation was analysed through AGRES software with CRD with two treatments with six replications.\r\nRESULTS AND DISCUSSIONS\r\nBrood area of the colony. The brood area comprises of the presence of area of eggs, larval cell (uncapped cells) and the presence of pupal cells (capped cells) were measured by using a solid rectangular grid of 25 cm2. The brood area of natural queen colony and larval grafted queen colony was interpreted below. The area of egg laying at grafted Queen was 52.29 cm2. In naturally reared queen, the presence of area of eggs was 39.42 cm2. By these aspects the egg laying capability was maximum at grafted queen when compared with naturally reared Queen (Table 1). By relating the brood emergence viz., presence of larvae (uncapped), pupa (capped) cells. The grafted queen has the maximum efficiency with 74.50 cm2 of larva (uncapped cells). The natural queen has the uncapped cells of 58.17 cm2. In these aspects the grafted queen has a superior quality than the natural formed queen (Table 1). By comparing the another important brood character was the presence of capped cells in the brood area of the colony, The capped cells was found maximum at the grafted queen at the 35th day count at 102.33 cm2 when compared with naturally grafted queen colony has the capped cells at the final day count at 94.46 cm2 (Table 1).\r\nArea of food reserves in the colony. The presence of brood area of the colony not only defines the performance of queen in that colony. Apart from that the pollen stores and honey reserves also one of the prominent parameter when we compare the performance of different bee colonies of same species. The honey reserves were found greater at grafted queen colony at 276.92 cm2 whereas in natural queen colony has the honey reserves of 253.13 cm2 (Table 1). The pollen stores in the grafted queen colony were superior value of 41.98 cm2 than natural colony of 37.13 cm2 (Table 1).\r\nWeight comparison of natural queen and grafted queen colony. The weight of queen was taken to evaluate the performance of the queens of both the colonies, the diet consumption or gravid and flaccid queens will determine the weight comparison results. In grafted queen has weighed at a maximum mean value of 184.9 mgs compared to naturally found queen has a mean value of 171.4 mgs (Table 2). \r\nComparison of egg laying capability of natural queen and grafted queen colony. By comparing the egg laying capability of the two types of Italian bee colonies in our bee flora, Grafted Queen has the maximum capacity of being 1829.01 eggs/day followed by the Natural Queen has the maximum capability of 1660.0 eggs/day (Table 3). It can be assessed by measuring the eggs using 25 cm2 grids on the frame.\r\nThe experimentation was carried out in a mean of six observations based on the measurement of pollen store, honey store, brood area (eggs, larva, pupa). The experiment was carried out in a CRD Analysis in AGRES software. The differences in queen weight was analysed with SPSS software in a paired t-test with six treatments and four replications.\r\n','Karthik Raja N., Kalyanasundaram A., Saminathan V. and Jeyaprakash P. (2022). Studies on Comparative Performance of Grafted Queen Colony and Naturally Reared Queen Colony of Italian Bee, Apis mellifera L. (Hymenoptera: Apidae) at Tiruchirapalli condition. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 14(2a): 50-55.'),(5109,'113','Heuristic-based LEACH protocol: An improvement in total lifespan of the wireless sensor network using LEACH and TOPSIS-based heuristic algorithm','Ashray Khurana and Vinay Chopra','6 Heuristic-based LEACH protocol An improvement in total lifespan of the wireless sensor network using LEACH and TOPSIS-based heuristic algorithm ASHRAY.pdf','',1,'The wireless sensor network is a promising domain of research due to its number of applications in the diverse area of technologies ranging from civil to the military domain. During the previous two decades, a number of efforts have been made to improve the efficiency of the wireless sensor network under several applications. This paper presents investigations on the Balanced LEACH algorithm. The investigations are reported for two cases such as inter-cluster and intra-cluster in order to estimate the throughput and energy efficiency. The simulation-based experiment on the proposed method reveals that the proposed approach is more efficient in terms of energy consumption compared to the previous routing algorithm. ','Energy efficiency, clustering, LEACH, throughput','In this paper, an efficient algorithm is proposed for improving the efficiency of the wireless sensor network in terms of energy and network lifetime. The performance of the proposed algorithm is compared with the conventional LEACH. Further, a discussion on PEGASIS and MODLEACH is also presented. During the investigation, it is observed that the proposed system has the ability to improve the efficiency of the wireless network. The comparison of PDR and data packet ratio is also presented. ','I. INTRODUCTION \r\nThe wireless sensor network is a network of sensor nodes connected wirelessly with each other and considered an autonomous network. The main revolution is observed during the 21st century due to the development of an electro-mechanical system. The main component of a sensor node is a microcontroller, transmitter and receiver, power unit, small memory unit and battery. The major constraint of the wireless sensor network is energy consumption as there is no option to replace the battery [1-4]. As the network lifetime depends on the sensor battery, therefore it is the major concern of many researchers working in the domain of wireless sensor network technology. Therefore, many efforts have been made to reduce energy consumption. Due to this a number of routing algorithms are developed to overcome the challenge of energy consumption in order to improve the network lifetime [5-7]. \r\nTherefore, in order to reduce the network lifetime single level to multi-level hierarchy approach is used by many researchers. In the case of a two-level hierarchy, the system is one of the best clustering hierarchy approaches used by researchers [8-9]. For one level the sensor nodes are close to each other and create a group of sensor nodes. These sensor nodes collect the data and transfer it to the cluster head again a sensor to collect the information from all the nearby nodes. In the next level i.e. level two the cluster head collects the information from the other node, compresses the received information and forward that information to the base station. The base station is known as a sink node that can be placed at any position within the network even this node can be placed outside the network as per the application of a wireless sensor network [10-12]. This node decompresses the received signal and retrieves the information. This sink node can be a simple computer or a high-speed server connected with various advanced equipment with an uninterrupted power supply. Therefore, it is important to take care while choosing the cluster head node and the sink node. The clustering problem is a case of an NP-hard problem. Figure 1 shows the clustering of the wireless sensor network. \r\nLEACH stands for Low Energy Adaptive Clustering Hierarchy and the concept was projected by the Heinzelman et al. LEACH is a hierarchical clustering algorithm with two levels of the hierarchical system instead of a conventional wireless sensor network [1, 13-15]. As discussed earlier, in level -1 cluster head collect the information from the associated nodes within the cluster. Whereas in level two the collected data of the cluster head is forwarded to the destination. The major advantage of this system approach is the reduction of energy consumption but introduces eth delay compared to other conventional wireless sensor network topologies such as PEGASIS [23]. The collection of the data by the cluster head is carried out on the principle of the Time Division Multiplexing approach. Afterwards, the data is compressed for removing the redundancy and transmitting this data to the sink node or the base station. On the other hand, the major limitation of this technology is the drainage of cluster head energy at a faster rate compared to the other node of the cluster. To minimize the energy consumption problem of the cluster head, the LEACH protocol provides a provision to change the cluster head on a random basis on the basis of fix number of rounds[16-18]. Therefore, the concern of the researcher has shifted to optimising the cluster network. In this direction, a number of researchers have designed protocols to improve wireless sensor network efficiency[19]. it is also observed that only 5% of the total number of nodes are able to act as a clustering hand and able to work optimally. Moreover, few researchers have also worked in the direction of developing the 3-level hierarchical system to improve the effectiveness of the sensor network in terms of energy efficiency[8]. These approaches have incorporated the heuristic algorithm[21]. The mathematical representation of the energy is expressed in the given relation. \r\n \r\nThis equation represents the threshold energy during each node where P indicates the level of residual energy within the network, and r represents the round of the network. The simulation of the network is carried out until all the associated nodes of the network and the entire network die due to the unavailability of energy. In this direction, a routing algorithm is proposed to minimize the energy consumption of the network to improve the network lifetime of the wireless sensor network. This algorithm will help to optimize the network cluster nodes based on the parameters of the nodes and neighbour nodes during the rounds. \r\nII. METHODOLOGY \r\nThe routing approach in wireless sensor networks is different from the other wireless communication networks as well as from the ad-hoc networks. The major concern for developing a routing approach for wireless sensor network is to minimize the energy consumption and use the available energy of sensor nodes in an effective manner [22]. LEACH is one of the most used algorithms in the domain of wireless networks and is used by many researchers to improve network lifetime. The researchers have explored the various direction of the LEACH protocol to enhance the efficiency of the wireless sensor network. The main features covered by the wireless sensor network included random allocation of cluster head and coordinate localization. In this direction few other protocols also emerged such as PEGASIS [23]. PEGASIS stands for Power-Efficient Gathering in Sensor Information System where sensor nodes form a chain for forwarding the information to the other nodes [8]. This approach is a token system-based approach where data is transmitted from the base station. This token is passed to all the nodes to collect the data and forward eth data to the base station. The major limitation of this approach is knowledge of the path that needs to follow to collect the data and transfer it to the base station. Another, routing approach in routing the wireless sensor network is HEED [10]. HEED stands for Hybrid Energy Efficient Distribution where the cluster head node is selected based on the remaining energy of the sensor node through uniform distribution. \r\nFurthermore, a concept of Multi-hop LEACH is also in use. This approach uses a cluster head as a communication station for transmitting the sensor data to the base station. This approach follows the 2-tier to 3- tier method for developing the LEACH architecture with the help of a relay node to control the load and network efficiency[21]. In this case, the relay node transmits all the data to the cluster head and the cluster head further transfers the data to the sink node or base station. The limitation of this work energy consumed by the relay node. This energy consumption is high and needs extra energy to carry out the dedicated task of the relay node. Another improved version of the LEACH protocol is available known as LEACH- DE [22]. This approach employs the differential Evolution of the routing algorithm by dividing the sup phase time into small phase time in the cluster head and formation of the cluster in order to reduce the distance for communication between the node. Centralized LEACH is another improved version of the LEACH protocol which works at the sink node or base station in comparison to distributed approach. In this case, the base station is responsible for the selection of the cluster head. The energy consumption in this method depends upon the distance from the base station. \r\nFew other versions of routing algorithms are also available such as Hybrid GA-PSO, LEACH-TLCH, and MODLEACH. GA- PSO algorithm depends upon the genetic algorithm which is used to enhance the life span of the network. LEACH is used to endure the energy for creating a cluster head node whereas LEACH-TLC is the method of creating two cluster heads based on the residual energy and distance of the cluster head. On the other hand, MODLEACH is again a modified version of LEACH which works on the two-threshold energy level to reduce energy consumption and improve the network lifetime. The proposed LEACH protocols in work can be differentiated compared to other leach protocols as: \r\n1. In the proposed algorithm energy is estimated by the cluster contained and improves the life span of the network. On the other hand, the wireless sensor network normally computes the average energy of every alive sensor node. \r\n2. Further the clustering of the proposed approach stabilizes the threshold level based on the distance between the cluster head\r\n3. Instead of using changing the cluster head of the network system in very rounds, the proposed approach transfers the threshold energy of the cluster head. This approach helps to control the packet flow of the sensor node. And reduce the energy utilization within the sensor network. \r\nIII. MODELLING AND RESULT ANALYSIS\r\nThe network is consisted of an N sensor node by providing a sink node. The sink node has allocated with a unique id which is spread randomly on the allocated area. The sensor node is grouped according to cluster whereas the sink node is placed at an appropriate position is 0.5xXm and 0.5xYm. This sink node is responsible for collecting all the data from the sensor nodes. In this case, each round of the LEACH algorithm allows divided into two categories as illustrated in figure 2.\r\nThe set-up phase is responsible for the aggregation of the cluster head which depends on the required percentage of not becoming a cluster head during round p. The node has a higher percentage among the all checked for the threshold limit. If a node fulfils both the requirement then that node is chosen as the cluster head node. Now this selected cluster head node transmits a message for the setup of the network by requesting the other linked sensor to get associated with the cluster head. Meanwhile, the minimum distance between the sensor node and cluster is also considered during the modelling. The second phase is the steady phase where rounds are divided based on the uniform time interval and during each slot, the cluster head will be able to receive the data for the sensor node associated with the cluster head.\r\nThe radio transmission model is shown in figure 3. The energy consumed by this module for transmitting the L bits can be estimated.\r\n \r\nThe cluster head change is based on the difference in the energy at every round. This is more energy-consuming as after the subsequent round therefore there is a need to set a threshold distance between the cluster head. The proposed algorithm divides the whole region of the wireless sensor network into three layers and each layer works on a different protocol. Further, the selection of the protocol is based on fuzzy logic. Fig. 4 shows the cluster pattern where no cluster head is close to N1 and N2. Hence there will be more energy consumption for transmission of the sensed data to the base station. Further, the cluster head node surrounded by the nodes having a higher upper threshold or some of the nodes having a less level than the threshold limit will consume more energy. In the previous approaches in the domain of LEACH protocols, every sensor node is responsible for the transmission and reception of the advertising packet. This advertising packet is also known as a control packet which again contributes to the consumption of energy. However, in the case of the proposed algorithm the sensor node will transmit or receive this control packet whenever the transition in the state occurs, therefore the change in the state occurs during the transition and every control packet is comprised of different information. In layer 1, every senor node works independently from other nodes and works on the token. The token protocol is when every node transmits its data during its turn. To create the difference between the layer a unique id is allocated to the layer. For layer 2, nodes form cluster heads following the TOPSIS approach. The cluster head forwards the data only when collecting the data and filling the entire packet and waiting for the next node to act as a cluster. Fig. 4 shows the LEACH protocol. \r\nIn the case of layer 3, communication between the cluster head to layer takes place. This layer is responsible for the transmission of the data from cluster to layer 2 based on the fixed number of rounds. This helps to save the energy in layer 3 as layer 3 is at more distance from the sink node. This helps to reduce energy consumption and improve the network lifetime. Moreover, the SoS message in layer 1 can be sent directly without the delay. And layer3 will send this message directly to the base station during an emergency situation. The algorithm and its various steps are explained as follows:\r\nInitialization: In this phase, the node is randomly deployed in the specified area and the base station is placed at the centre of the network. All the information is saved as the matrix of a specified number of rows and columns. \r\nFitness calculations: The next step is to calculate the fitness value. This parameter is useful for the normalization and criteria decision algorithm TOPSIS. \r\nDecision phase: During this step, every node-set its protocol based on the fuzzy system and the fitness value and the entire network is divided into the 3 layers based on the node’s decision. \r\nTransmission and compression Phase: This phase is responsible for the transmission and compression of the data which take place at different layers on the basis of public key distribution. The packets are divided into categories such as normal packets and SoS packets. The decision of transmission of the packet is based on the type of packet as SoS has assigned higher priority compared to the normal packet. Further, the wireless sensor network creates a backbone for the transmission of the data on the basis of the rank of the sensor node. Afterwards, every node updates the fitness value by detecting the variation in the parameters in the initial phase of the network. \r\nThe proposed algorithm follows the distributive method. In this approach, every node decides the protocol on the basis of distance from the sink node and other associated alive nodes with the help of fuzzy logic. As earlier discussed, the proposed approach is set for three phases where phase 1 decides the set of protocols and this phase is executed for a fixed number of rounds. Phase 2, the decided protocol checks the possibility of transmission of the data to the cluster head and phase 3 is responsible for the transmission of the data. \r\nThe comparison of the average energy is presented in figure 5. The average energy represents the remaining energy within the network at a time. Figure 5 shows that the proposed method is better than the previous LEACH protocol. \r\nThis is due to the optimized allocation of the cluster head. It is observed in the case of conventional LEACH that the energy decline rapidly from 100 to round 500 due round due unstable position of the cluster head. On the other hand, the proposed algorithm shows an improvement in energy. \r\nFurther, figure 6 shows the comparison of residual energy and a significant improvement in the proposed approach is observed. This is further observed that the node with zero energy is unable to communicate or transfer the data to the cluster head due to no residual energy. The values are also presented in table 1. \r\nAnother, the important parameter is PDR, i.e. packet delivery ratio. This PDR is used to estimate the efficiency of the network. In this regard, a comparison of the PDR is presented for conventional LEACH and the proposed approach. The PAD is again improved in the proposed approach and in between the range of 4 and 5. There is less drop in the packet delivery ratio hence it improves the efficiency of the network. \r\nFurther, the data packet ratio also gives information about the flow of data packets that are redundant. Data packets carry the sensed information and control and status of the packets about the transmission of the data. The control information does not carry any data and this information is known as redundant information. The aim of this work is to reduce energy consumption and also control the pack flow. In the initial stage at every round, the cluster heads forward the control message to all the nodes and the sensor node sends the information which again spends energy in the conventional LEACH. In the proposed scheme the algorithm omits the control packets and saves energy. The observation of the data packet is shown in figure 7. \r\n','Ashray Khurana and Vinay Chopra (2022). Heuristic-based LEACH protocol: An improvement in total lifespan of the wireless sensor network using LEACH and TOPSIS-based heuristic algorithm. International Journal on Emerging Technologies, 13(1): 36–43.'),(5110,'134','Evaluation of Fungicides against Growth of Rhizoctonia solani under in vitro condition','Babli* and S.P. Tiwari','10 Evaluation of Fungicides against Growth of Rhizoctonia solani under in vitro condition Babli.pdf','',1,'Rhizoctonia solani is a multiphagous widely distributed plant pathogen. Web blight caused by Rhizoctonia solani causes huge yield loses in urdbean (Vigna mungo). All the commercially grown varieties were found susceptible during course of investigation. Being a typical soil borne fungus, its management through chemicals is expensive and not feasible, because of the physiological heterogeneity of the soil and other edaphic factors etc. Integrated approaches of the disease management are paying more attentiveness in terms of sustainability. A set of six fungicides namely Azoxystrobin 23% SC, Propiconazole 25% EC, Difenoconazole 25% EC, Tebuconazole 25% EC, Carbendazim 12% WP and Copper oxy chloride 50% WP were tested for their efficacy against R. solani under in vitro conditions using Poisoned food technique at five different concentrations of respective fungicide (250 ppm, 500 ppm, 1000 ppm, 1500 ppm and 2000 ppm). Among the different fungicides, two fungicides namely Tebuconazole 25% EC and Carbendazim 12% WP completely inhibited the growth of test fungi R. solani even at 250 ppm concentration and no mycelial growth of R. solani was recorded in these two treatment at 250 ppm concentration and above that. However, Propiconazole and difenoconazole were most effective at 1000 and 2000 ppm. Rest of the fungicides were effective over the control but not at par with each other.','Rhizoctonia solani, fungicides, mycelial growth','Rhizoctonia solani cause serious problem and it is responsible for wide range of commercially significant plant diseases. In vitro study concluded that out of six fungicides tested at five concentrations with different formulations inhibited the growth of Rhizoctonia solani. The mycelial growth of Rhizoctonia solani were arrested in vitro study. Some of the fungicides are new molecules recommended against foliar and soil inhabitant fungi, hence effectively may not be as their chemical behaviour.','INTRODUCTION\r\nUrdbean (Vigna mungo (L.) Hepper) is an important pulse crop of India. This crop is a major source of dietary proteins, minerals and vitamins for vegetarian population of India. It is also rich in phosphoric acid. Urd bean is also cultivated as mixed crop with finger millet or barnyard millet in the hills of Uttaranchal during the kharif season. In North India, it is grown in kharif and summer season. In India is its primary origin and is mainly cultivated in Asian countries including Pakistan, Myanmar and parts of Southern Asia. About 70 per cent of the world\'s blackgram production comes from India. India is the world\'s largest producer as well as consumer of blackgram. It produces about 24.5 lakh tonnes of Urad annually from about 4.6 million hectares of area, with an average productivity of 533 Kg per hectare in (2020-21 agricoop.nic.in). Blackgram area accounts for about 19 per cent of India\'s total pulse acreage which contributes 23 per cent of total pulse production. Despite being an important pulse crop its productivity has been quite low probably due to various biotic and abiotic constraints. Urdbean is vulnerable to a variety of diseases viz., anthracnose (Glomerella lindemuthianum), dry root rot (Macrophomina phaseolina), leaf spot (Cercospora canescens), powdery mildew (Erysiphe polygoni), rust (Uromyces phaseoli), web blight (Rhizoctonia solani), Mosaic and leaf crinkle (Bara, 2007). Among the biotic constraints, web blight disease of urdbean caused by Rhizoctonia solani Kuhn [Teleomorph: Thanatephorous cucumeris (Frank) Donk] is considered as an important constraint accountable for losses in production as well as productivity in India up to 20-30% (Kumar et al., 2018). The disease had been reported in other countries like Pakistan, Sri Lanka, West Indies, Japan, Philippines, Myanmar, North America, South America, Argentina, Brazil, and Mexico too beside India. The disease has been reported from various urdbean growing areas of India including; Punjab, Haryana, Bihar, Rajasthan, Uttarakhand, Madhya Pradesh, Uttar Pradesh, West Bengal, Himachal Pradesh and Jammu and Kashmir (Shailbala and Tripathi 2007). The disease appears about 21-25 days after sowing depending on cultivars, environmental conditions, crop stages and cultivation practices (Dubey and Patel 2001; Shailbala and Tripathi 2007). Seed quality and grain yield are heavily affected in this disease. Web blight of urd bean is a seed and soil borne disease (Saksena and Dwivedi 1973; Dwivedi and Saksena 1975) and managed by chemical seed treatment (Dubey and Dwivedi 1988). The chemicals not only disturb the ecology of soil but also develop hazardous impact on surroundings including Rhizobium spp. Biological seed treatment with fungal antagonist has significant promise against such devastating pathogens (Mukhopadhyay, 1994) but suitable methods of seed treatment and optimum doses are ingredients for successful management. The first report of occurrence of web blight on urdbean caused by Rhizoctonia solani Kuhn [Teleomorph: Thanatephorous cucumeris (Frank) Donk] in India was reported by (Saksena and Dwivedi 1973). This disease is known to occur in other leguminous crops like mungbean (Dwivedi and Saksena 1975), pigeonpea (Dwivedi and Saksena 1975), cowpea (Lakshman et al. 1979), soybean (Verma and Thapliyal 1976), groundnut (Dwivedi and Dubey 1986) and rice bean (Jalali, 1989).\r\nMATERIAL AND METHODS\r\nEffect of fungicides on radial mycelium growth of Rhizoctonia solani. In order to find out suitable fungicides for management of Rhizoctonia solani of black gram six fungicides namely Azoxystrobin, propconazole, tebuconazole, Carbendazim and copper oxychloride along with control was evaluated against Rhizoctonia solani by following the poisoned food technique under in vitro condition. PDA poisoned with each fungicide quantity was poured into three sterilized petriplates @ 20 ml/plate and allowed to solidify. Plates containing PDA without fungicide served as check. After solidification each petriplate was inoculated with 5 mm mycelial disc aseptically. Plates were incubated at 28 + 10C and observation on radial mycelium growth of test fungus. Growth was measured at 48, 72 and 96 hours the colony in the control plate was covered with the growth of mycelium of pathogen. The details about fungicides have been give in table.\r\nStatistical Analysis. The data were analyzed statistically using Complete Randomized Design (CRD). Treatments were compared by mean of critical differences at 5% level of significance. \r\nTest of significance. To test the significance difference among the treatment means following formula were used for calculating the critical differences. \r\n\r\n\r\nS.Em± = MSE \r\nr \r\nC.D. = S.Em × √2 ‘t’ at error d.f.\r\nWhere: \r\nD.F. = Degree of Freedom \r\nS.S. = Sum of square \r\nM.S.S. = Mean sum of square \r\nThe significant difference between mean was determined by using critical difference. \r\nS.Em ± = EMss/replication \r\nC.D. = S.Ed. × t 5% at error d.f.\r\nRESULTS \r\nEffect of fungicides on mycelial growth of Rhizoctonia solani. A set of six fungicides namely Azoxystrobin 23% SC, Propiconazole 25% EC, Difenoconazole 25% EC, Tebuconazole 25% EC, Carbendazim 12% WP and Copper oxy chloride 50% WP were tested for their efficacy against R. solani under in vitro conditions using Poisoned food technique at five different concentrations of each fungicide (250 ppm, 500 ppm, 1000 ppm, 1500 ppm and 2000 ppm). Data were recorded for mycelial radial growth after three different incubation periods (48 hrs, 72 hrs and 96 hrs) and per cent inhibition in growth of R. solani was calculated above untreated control. \r\nIt was observed that after 48 hrs of incubation period, all the six fungicides significantly reduced the growth of R. solani. However, mycelial radial growth of R. solanivaried from treatment to treatment. Two fungicides namely Tebuconazole 25% EC and Carbendazim 12% WP completely inhibited the growth of test fungi R. solani even at 250 ppm concentration and no mycelial growth of R. solani was recorded in these two treatments at 250 ppm concentration and above that. This showed the highest efficacy of Tebuconazole 25% EC and Carbendazim 12% WP among the tested fungicides against R. solani. However, maximum mycelial radial growth (7.66 mm) and minimum per cent inhibition (64.09%) of R. solani was recorded in Copper oxychloride 50% WP at 250 ppm concentration and after 48 hrs of incubation period. At 500 ppm concentration, average mycelial radial growth of R. solani ranged from 0.00 mm to 3.66 mm. However, at 1000 ppm concentration only two fungicides namely Azoxystrobin 23% SC and Copper oxy chloride 50% WP showed 1.83 mm and 2.50 mm mycelial radial growth respectively after 48 hrs of incubaition period. Further on increasing the concentrations of respective fungicides, the per cent inhibition kept on increasing and it was observed that at 1500 ppm concentration all the six tested fungicides completely inhibited the growth of R. solani and no mycelial growth was recorded in any treatment except control after 48 hrs of incubation period. In control plate of R. solani, where no fungicide was added, mycelial radial growth of 21.33 mm was recorded after 48 hrs of incubation period. The detailed data for mycelial radial growth and per cent inhibition in growth of R. solani in different treatments after 48 hrs of incubation period are presented in Table 1. The graphical representation for mycelial radial growth and per cent inhibition in growth of R. solani in different treatments after 48 hrs of incubation period are presented in Plate Further, mycelial radial growth of R. solani was recorded in different treatments and per cent inhibition in growth of R. solani was calculated after prolonged incubation of 72 hrs. It was observed that after 72 hrs of incubation period, 50.33 mm mycelial radial growth of R. solani was recorded in control where no fungicide was added. Among different treatments, two fungicides namely Tebuconazole 25% EC and Carbendazim 12% WP completely inhibited the growth of the test fungus R. solani even at 250 ppm concentration and no mycelial growth of R. solani was recorded in these two treatments at 250 ppm concentration and above that even after 72 hrs of incubation period. The maximum mycelial radial growth (8.83 mm) and minimum per cent inhibition (82.46%) of R. solani was recorded in Copper 78 oxychloride 50% WP at 250 ppm concentration and after 72 hrs of incubation period. At 500 ppm concentration, average mycelial radial growth of R. solani ranged from 0.00 mm to 6.33 mm. \r\nFurther, it was observed that at 1500 ppm concentration all the six tested fungicides completely inhibited the growth of R. solani and no mycelial growth was recorded in any treatment except control after 72 hrs of incubation period. The detailed data for mycelial radial growth and per cent inhibition in growth of R. solani in different treatments after 72 hrs of incubation period are presented in (Table 2). The graphical representation for mycelial radial growth and per cent inhibition in growth of R. solani in different treatments after 72 hrs of incubation period are presented in Plate 3.1. \r\nAfter 96 hrs of incubation period, it was observed that R. solani covered full mycelial radial growth of 89.33 mm in control plate. Among different treatments, maximum mycelial radial growth of 89.33 mm was recorded in Copper oxychloride 50% WP at 250 ppm concentration. However, Tebuconazole 25% EC and Carbendazim 12% WP completely inhibited the growth of R. solani at all the tested concentrations and no mycelial growth of R. solani was recorded in these two treatments. At 500 ppm and 1000 ppm concentrations, more than 95 per cent inhibition was recorded in all the fungicides except Copper oxychloride 50% WP. Further, at 1500 ppm concentration all the six tested fungicides completely inhibited the growth of R. solani and no mycelial growth was recorded in any treatment except control after 96 hrs of incubation period. The detailed data for mycelial radial growth and per cent inhibition in growth of R. solani in different treatments after 96 hrs of incubation period are presented in (Table 4, 5 and 6). The graphical representation for mycelial radial growth and per cent inhibition in growth of R. solani in different treatments after 96 hrs of incubation period are presented in (Fig. 1, 2 and 3). The pictorial representation of mycelial radial growth of R. solani in different treatments after 96 hrs of incubation period is depicted in plate.\r\nDISCUSSION \r\nA set of six fungicides namely Azoxystrobin 23% SC, Propiconazole 25% EC, Difenoconazole 25% EC, Tebuconazole 25% EC, Carbendazim 12% WP and Copper oxychloride 50% WP was tested for efficacy against R. solani under in vitro conditions using Poisoned food technique at five different concentrations of respective fungicide (250 ppm, 500 ppm, 1000 ppm, 1500 ppm and 2000 ppm). Among the different fungicides, two fungicides namely Tebuconazole 25% EC and Carbendazim 12% WP completely inhibited the growth of test fungus R. solani even at 250 ppm concentration and no mycelial growth of R. solani was recorded in these two treatments at 250 ppm concentration and above that. This showed the highest efficacy of Tebuconazole 25% EC and Carbendazim 12% WP among the tested fungicides against R. solani. \r\n \r\nThe similar reports have been documented for use of fungicides and botanicals for the management of web blight of urd bean by Sharma and Tripathi (2001); Jhamaria and Sharma (2002); Shailbala and Tripathi (2004); Mishra et al., (2005); Shailbala and Tripathi (2007) and Shailbala and Tripathi (2010). Effect against new molecules of fungicides decreases the percent inhibition in vitro study may be good sign of management of R. solani. The importance of study revealed significance in respect their behavior against the host generated better approach in the management strategy.\r\nIn our study the fungicides Tebuconazole 25% EC and Carbendazim 12% WP completely inhibited the growth of test fungus R. solani even at 250 ppm concentration and no mycelial growth of R. solani was recorded in these two treatments at 250 ppm concentration. Other fungicides showed their efficacy against test fungus at higher concentrations.\r\n','Babli and S.P. Tiwari (2022). Evaluation of Fungicides Against Growth of Rhizoctonia solani under in vitro Condition. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 14(2a): 56-62.'),(5111,'125','Influence of Various Organic Nutrient Sources on Dry matter Partitioning and Physiological parameters of Vegetable Cluster bean (Cyamopsis tetragonoloba (L.) Taub.)','Ammaladinne Tharun Kumar*, E. Somasundaram* and N. Thavaprakaash','271 Influence of Various Organic Nutrient Sources on Dry matter Partitioning and Physiological parameters of Vegetable Cluster bean Ammaladinne Tharun Kumar.pdf','',4,'Organic farming is one of the best alternate crop production systems to safe guard human health and other life in agricultural ecosystem from toxic chemicals used in agriculture. Cluster bean is leguminous industrial crop, with huge demand for various sectors like food consumer markets, pharmaceuticals, medicine etc. Indiscriminate use of chemical inputs in cluster bean cultivation affects human health system and environment. So, the research on influence of different organic nutrient sources compared to conventional recommended dose of fertilizers (RDF) on dry-matter partitioning and physiological parameters on vegetable cluster bean was explored. The experiment was carried out using randomized complete block design (RCBD) with twelve treatments and three replications at irrigated condition ta Agricultural College and Research Institute, Tamil Nadu Agricultural University, Coimbatore between June to September, 2018. The dry weight of root, stem, leaf and total plant dry weight, LAI, CGR, AGR and RGR of cluster bean were measured and had shown significant difference with application of recommended dose of fertilizer (50:50:25 – NPK) along with a foliar spray application of TNAU pulse wonder (T11). However, it was statistically on par with organic farmers’ practice (T1) and FYM @ 25 t/hain addition to foliar spray of 3% Panchagavya (T2). Considering the need for chemical free environment at food production sites, the farmer’s practice of applying FYM @ 10 t/ha + Jeevamruth @ 500 l/ha through irrigation + foliar spray application of Panchagavya @ 3% is found to beneficial for vegetable clusterbean growth and yield.','Organic manures, Vegetable Cluster bean, Dry-matter partitioning, Physiological parameters and recommended dose of fertilizers (RDF)','Along with food security, it is necessary to consider the safety of environment, human health and in agriculture and food production system. So, it is concluded that the farmer’s practice – basal application of farm yard manure (FYM) @ 10 tonnes per hectare, along with Jeevamruth @ 500 litres per hectare application along with irrigation water and foliar spray application of Panchagavya @ 3 per cent is found to provide better growth rate and better partitioning of photosynthates to sink for higher yields in vegetable clusterbean.','INTRODUCTION\r\nIndia holds second position in vegetable production following China, with a land area of 10.2 million hectares (175 million tonnes). However, in comparison to global production, we continue to lag behind in the production of a variety of vegetables (Nath et al., 2015). As a result, there is a compelling need to increase vegetable productivity in ecological safe and sustainable way. Today, the globe is also dealing with issues related to indiscriminate use of synthetic chemicals in food production and their impact on human and environmental health (Chávez-Dulanto et al., 2021). Organic farming is one of the finest food production solutions for a healthier and more sustainable existence, as it supports and improves agro-ecosystem health by adhering to principles of health, ecology, fairness, and caring for everyone, including soil (Timsina, 2018).\r\nOrganic vegetable farming is becoming increasingly popular in India, however scientifically verified information about organic methods of cultivation has yet to be produced to meet the needs of today\'s Farmers in many vegetable crops. In the developing world, the average yield ratio (organic: nonorganic) was more than one (Badgley et al., 2007). Since the last two decades, organic agriculture has been one of the most dynamic and quickly increasing sectors of agriculture (Timsina, 2018).\r\nCluster bean [Cyamopsis tetragonoloba (L.) Taub.]is a leguminous crop that is native to the Indian subcontinent (Vavilov, 1951). It is popularly known as \'Guar\', and it has captured a prominent position because of high export potential and multiple benefits from the crop. It is also valued for its high yield and drought tolerance. Green tender pods are rich in protein (3.2 g), vitamin C (49 mg), vitamin A (65.31 IU), energy (16 k Cal), iron (4.5 mg), calcium (57 mg), fat (1.4 g), carbohydrate (10.8 g) and moisture (8.1 g) per 100 g edible piece (Longvah et al., 2017). It also heals stomach ulcers, high blood pressure, obesity, plague, arthritis, inflammation, sprains and liver enlargement, among other problems (Pathak, 2015).\r\nThe vegetable cluster bean requires abundant supply of nutrients for its good growth and development. Organic manures like vermicompost, farm yard manure, Panchagavya and humic acid can be used as substitute for inorganic fertilizers in cluster bean to maintain soil productivity and environment quality. Organic manures not only increase soil chemical characteristics by supplying macro and micro nutrients, but they also reduce crop failure by supplying growth promoting chemicals and improve soil physical qualities such as structure and moisture retention capacity (Kumar, 2016). In this paper we discussed the impact of organic manures on dry-matter portioning and physiological growth rate of vegetable cluster bean compared to inorganic fertilizers. \r\nMATERIAL AND METHODS\r\nA field trial in kharif was conducted from July to October, 2018 at wetland farms of Tamil Nadu Agricultural University, Coimbatore to evaluate the influence of organic manures dry matter partitioning and physiological parameters. The experimental field was organically maintained from past 10 years. The field has alkaline pH(8.27) with clay loamy soils in texture, less salinity (0.25 dS/m), medium organic carbon (0.45%), less available nitrogen, medium phosphorus and high potassium (218, 18.2 and 402 kg/ha, respectively). The field trail was laidoutin randomized complete block design with twelve treatments and three replications.\r\nThe following are the treatments: \r\nT1: Organic farmer’s practice (farm yard manure (FYM) @ 10 tonnes per hectare + Jeevamruth @ 500 litres per hectare on 3rd days after sowing (DAS), 30 DAS and 60 DAS along with irrigation + Panchagavya @ 3% as foliar spray (FS) application on 30, 45 and 60 days after sowing (DAS).\r\nT2: FYM @ 25 tonnes per hectare + Panchagavya @ 3% as foliar spray on 30, 45 and 60 DAS.\r\nT3: FYM @ 12.5 tonnes per hectare + Panchagavya @ 3% as foliar spray on 30, 45 and 60 DAS.\r\nT4: FYM @ 12.5 tonnes per hectare + banana pseudostem sap @ 2% as foliar spray on 30, 45 and 60 DAS. \r\nT5: Vermicompost @ 5 tonnes per hectare + Panchagavya @ 3% as foliar spray on 30, 45 and 60 DAS.\r\nT6: Vermicompost @ 5 tonnes per hectare + banana pseudostem sap @ 2% as foliar spray on 30, 45 and 60 DAS.\r\nT7: Ganajeevamruth @ 500 kg per hectare + Panchagavya @ 3% as foliar spray on 30, 45 and 60 DAS.\r\nT8: Ganajeevamruth @ 500 kg per hectare + banana pseudostem sap @ 2% as foliar spray on 30, 45 and 60 DAS.\r\nT9: Humic acid @ 6 litres per hectare + Panchagavya @ 3% as foliar spray on 30, 45 and 60 DAS. \r\nT10: Humic acid @ 6 litres per hectare + banana pseudostem sap @ 2% as foliar spray on 30, 45 and 60 DAS.\r\nT11: Recommended dose of fertilizer (NPK = 50:50:25 kg/ha) + TNAU pulse wonder @ 1% as foliar spray \r\nT12: Absolute control. \r\nThe farm yard manure (FYM), Ganajeevamruth, vermicompost and humic acid were applied as basal before sowing, whereas Panchagavya, banana pseudostem sap were applied as foliar spray on 30, 45, and 60 days after sowing (DAS). Jeevamruth was applied to experimental plot along with irrigation water on 3rd day after sowing (DAS), 30th and 60th DAS. The banana pseudostem sap was extracted from banana standing plant (8-year-old tree), by making sharp incision on stem with a sharp knife. The collected sap was applied as foliar spray by diluting 2 ml of sap in one liter of water.\r\nTo achieve excellent tilth, the cultivator was used for two times followed by one time with rotovator. Using a bullock drawn ridge former, 45 cm width ridges were created. The dimension of the plots was 6.75 m × 3.15m. Prior to sowing, organic manures were put to the soil and the field was irrigated. Seeds of Cluster bean variety MDU 1 were treated with Rhizobium culture @ 80 g/kg. Sowing was taken up on one side of the ridge at 15 cm distance followed by a first irrigation was provided on the same day. Later, the second on the third DAS, and then further irrigations were scheduled based on available soil moisture content. As per the treatments, organic liquid manures were administered as a foliar spray application on 30, 45 and 60 DAS. Except for the use of synthetic chemicals, all other agronomic cultural practices and management practices were shadowed as per recommendation TNAU agro site. (http://agritech.tnau.ac.in/horticulture/horti vegetables cluste.html)\r\nFrom sampling rows, five plants were randomly selected and uprooted on 30, 45, 60 DAS and harvest stage. Then, the plants were shade dried and oven dried at 65 - 70°C for 24 hours. Total dry weight and separate dry weight of root, stem and leaves were documented with help of electronic weighing balance and expressed in grams per plant\r\nLeaf area index (LAI) was computed from five plant leaf area average on 30, 45, 60 DAS and harvest stage of the crop by using the formula given by Watson (1952)\r\nLeaf area index = Total leaf area of a plant (cm2)/ Ground area per plant (cm2)\r\nThe crop growth rate (CGR) is the rate at which dry matter is produced per unit of ground area per unit of time. CGR was determined using Watson (1952) formula and expressed in grams per square meter each day (g m 2 day -1).\r\n \r\n\r\n \r\n \r\nWhere, W1 and W2 means plant total dry weight at time t1 and t2, respectively; P is plant spacing in square meters and; t2 - t1 is the time interval in days.\r\nThe relative growth rate (RGR) is the rate of increase in dry weight per unit dry weight already existent, and it is measured in milli grams per gram of dry weight every day (mg g -1day -1) (Blackman, 1919). \r\n \r\nWhere, W1 - Whole plant dry weight at time t1; W2- Whole plant dry weight at time t2; t1 and t2 - Time interval in days. \r\nThe absolute growth rate (AGR) is defined as the dry matter production per unit time (g day-1), which was computed using Radford (1967) formula. \r\n \r\nWhere, W1 = Plant dry weight (g) at time t1 ;W2 = Plant dry weight (g) at time t2. ; t1 and t2 - Time interval in days. Using Agres software, the experimental data was statistically analysed using analysis of variance (ANOVA). The level of significance (P =0.05) was preserved at 5%.\r\nRESULTS AND DISCUSSION\r\nEffect of organic nutrient source on dry matter portioning of vegetable cluster bean. Accumulation of dry-mater is the reliable index of crop growth. The mean data of root, stem, leaves and total dry weight per plant and pod dry weight in vegetable cluster bean was presented in the Table 1. The data clear depicts that with advancement of crop, the dry-matter accumulation in roots, stem, leaves and total dry matter were in increasing trend from 45 to 60 DAS later decreased at harvest stages due to ageing and leaf fall and also due to translocation of photosynthates into green tender pods which were harvested at multiple pickings (Gupta et al., 2015).\r\nHigher root (0.62, 0.57 and 0.43 g per plant on 45,60 and 90 DAS, respectively), stem (1.47, 1.65 and 1.41 g per plant on 45, 60 and 90 DAS, respectively), leaves (2.59, 2.33 and 2.17 g per plant on 45, 60 and 90 DAS, respectively), total dry weight (4.68, 7.52 and 8.80 g per plant on 30, 45 and 60 DAS, respectively) and pod dry weigh (1757 g per plant) of cluster bean plants was recorded due tothe application of RDF along with a foliar spray of TNAU pulse wonder (T11), but statistically on par with organic farmers’ practice (T1) and FYM @ 25 tonnes per hectare in addition to foliar spray of 3% Panchagavya (T2). This might be due to rapid availability of macro nutrients from RDF and micro nutrients from TNAU pulse wonder (Ramesh et al., 2020) might have enhanced the metabolic and physiological activity like photosynthate partitioning and efficient translocation of food material in the plant. Eventually, the amount of dry matter accumulation had increased, similar results were noted with (Pooja et al., 2021).\r\nIn organic treatments organic manures along with chemolithotrops and autotropicnitrifiers present in Panchagavya, which colonize in the leaves have increased the ammonia uptake (Devakumar et al., 2014). Nitrogenous compounds play a vital role in amino acid synthesis, protein synthesis and chlorophyll synthesis (Shu et al., 2012), which results into efficient photosynthesis and photosynthate production, consequently increase in dry matter accumulation in leaves, stems, root, and pods. Thus, resulting overall higher dry matter accumulation in plant.\r\nLess accumulation of root, stem, leaves, total plant dry matter and pod dry weight was noted in absolute control (T12) was many due to lack of nutrients. \r\nEffect of organic manures on physiological parameters. Growth analysis like leaf area index (LAI), crop growth rate (CGR), relative growth rate (RGR) and absolute growth rate (AGR) were used to evaluate photosynthesis, assimilation and therefore yield of a crop.\r\nLeaf area index denotes photosynthetic area in a unit crop area, which has direct contribution to yield and acts like an indicator for plant growth. Leaf area index (LAI) of clusterbean, was computed and furnished in the Table 2. On perusal of data, the LAI was increased up to 45 DAS, thereafter it tended to decrease gradually. At all stages of crop growth, remarkable difference was noted with LAI. Significantly higher LAI (0.338, 0.461, 0.235 and 0.134 on 30, 45, 60 and 90 DAS, respectively) was enumerated with recommended dose of fertilizer (RDF) in addition to foliar spray application of TNAU pulse wonder (T11) and statistically on par with organic farmers’ practice (T1) and FYM @ 25 t/ha in addition to foliar spray of 3% Panchagavya (T2). This was due to synchronized nutrient release matching to the crop requirement from basal and foliar application of fertilizers resulted in production of higher number of leaves with larger leaf area (Rawat et al., 2015). Lesser LAI (0.140, 0.189, 0.097 and 0.055 on 30, 45, 60 and harvest stages, respectively) was under absolute control (T12). \r\nAGR, CGR, RGR was calculated for each treatment at 30 days interval and statistical computation was done and highlighted in the Table 2. \r\n\r\nIn general, the data shown that AGR, CGR and RGR increased by multiple folds with increase in plant growth rate from 0-30 DAS to 30-60 DAS stages, later on it was decreased up to harvest under various organic manure application.\r\nOn review of the data, different organic manure application resulted in a significant influence on AGR, CGR, RGR of cluster bean at all stages. RDF along with foliar spray of TNAU pulse wonder (T11) had shown significantly prominent AGR (0.108 g day-1 between 0-30 DAS, 30-60 DAS and 60-90 DAS, respectively), CGR (1.60, 2.11 and 0.63 g m-2 day-1 between 0-30 DAS, 30-60 DAS and 60-90 DAS, respectively) and RGR (39.2 mg g-1 day-1 between 0-30 DAS, 30-60 DAS and 60-90 DAS, respectively). Although RDF with TNAU pulse wonder has superior AGR, CGR and RGR compared to other treatments, it was statistically on par with organic farmers’ practice (T1) and FYM @ 25 tonnes per hectare in addition to foliar spray application of 3% Panchagavya (T2). This was due to better utilization of available nutrients and solar radiation to promote physiological and metabolic activities of crop. Thus, leading to better accumulation of dry matter with the rate of advancement of the vegetable clusterbean crop. Similar findings were observed with (Lodha, 2016). Remarkably lower AGR (0.082, 1.45 and 0.49 g day-1), CGR (1.22g m-2day-1) RGR (30.2 mg g-1 day-1) was documented under absolute control (T12).\r\n\r\n','Ammaladinne Tharun Kumar, E.Somasundaram and N. Thavaprakaash (2022). Influence of Various Organic Nutrient Sources on Dry matter Partitioning and Physiological parameters of Vegetable Cluster bean (Cyamopsis tetragonoloba (L.) Taub.). Biological Forum – An International Journal, 14(2): 1575-1579.'),(5112,'134','Optimum Date of Sowing for Maximization of Seed Yield and its Quality Parameters in Wheat (Triticum aestivum L.)','Himanshu Singh* and S.C. Vimal','11 Optimum Date of Sowing for Maximization of Seed Yield and its Quality Parameters in Wheat _Triticum aestivum L._ Himanshu Singh.pdf','',1,'A field experiment was conducted in split plot design at Student Instructional Farms and Seed Testing Laboratory of the Acharya Narendra Deva University of Agriculture & Technology, Kumarganj, Ayodhya, (U.P.) during Rabi season 2020-21 and 2021-22 to find out the optimum date of sowing for maximization of seed yield and its quality parameters in wheat (Triticum aestivum L.). The experiment consists of three different dates of sowing which was 25-30 Nov., 10-15 Dec. and 01-05 Jan. with replications (var. NW-5054). Yield components and seed quality parameters recorded at harvest. The results revealed that the seed sown on 25th – 30th November produced maximum plant height (100.78cm and 97.03cm), tillers/m2 (370.87 and 348.80), spike length (10.52 and 11.27cm), spike weight (2.71g and 2.70g), spikelet\'s/spike (19.53 and 20.13), seed/spike (43.47 and 43.87), seed weight/spike (1.90g and 1.97g), seed Index (3.72g and 3.73g), seed yield (3929.20 and 3931.0 kg/hac-1), seed recovery (96.75% and 96.76%), harvest Index (42.65% and 42.65%), germination (92.73% and 92.60%), speed of germination (18.82 and 18.83), root length (20.43cm and 20.43cm), shoot length (14.15cm and 14.17cm), seedling length (35.47cm and 35.21cm), seedling dry weight (0.158g and 0.159g), vigour Index I (3416.73 and 3418.13) and vigour Index II (15.88 and 15.90) followed by 10th – 15th December. ','Seed, Seed Index, Seed Recovery, Harvest Index, Seedling Dry Weight and Vigour Index','25th – 30th November has been taken maximum days to 50% flowering, maturity and produced maximum plant height, tillers/m2, spike length, spike weight, spikelet\'s/spike, seed/spike, seed weight/spike, seed Index, seed yield, seed recovery (%), harvest Index, germination %, speed of germination, root length, shoot length, seedling length, seedling dry weight, vigour Index I and vigour Index II followed by 10th – 15th December.\r\nTherefore, present investigation showed that seed sown on 25th – 30th November followed by 10th – 15th December should be effective for achieving higher seed yield and quality parameters in wheat.\r\n','INTRODUCTION\r\nWheat (Triticum aestivum L.) is one of the important food grain crops of India. Wheat is also a primary important cereal in Asia and European countries. Wheat is the most widely cultivated cereal in the world (224.49 million hectares) for the year 2020-21. As per the estimates from the United States Department of Agriculture (2021), the global production of wheat is 792.40 million tones. In India, wheat witnessed an acreage of 31.76 million hectares, respectively during the 2020-21 rabi season. The wheat and barley nutri-rich cereals account for about 25 per cent of the total crop acreage contributing 36 per cent of the total food grains produced in India. During 2020-21, the wheat production reached 108.75 million tones with an average national productivity of 3424 kg/ha (III Advance Estimates of 2020-21, Directorate of Economics and Statistics, Ministry of Agriculture and Farmers\' Welfare).\r\nHigh temperature is considered to be most important factor to reduce the wheat yield among the various stresses. Heat stress adversely affects the wheat crop starting from the early stage of emergence in wheat. Exposure of wheat seedling to heat stress for a short period can also cause significant decrease of the root and shoot length, dry mass, chlorophyll content as well as membrane stability index which is a measure of tolerance of cell membrane to sustain in high temperature (Gupta et al., 2013). Heat stress ultimately has detrimental effect on the production of wheat by causing reduction in biomass, tiller number, duration of grain filling, kernel size, etc. as a result of its adverse impact on days to appearance of first node, tiller per plant and spikelet\'s per plant, thereby resulting in reduction of sink capacity and future sources capability of the plant (Sharma and Tandon 1997).\r\nTimely sowing of wheat crop is beneficial in mitigating heat stress as it gives higher yield than sowing the crop late in the season. Late sown wheat crop makes the ripening stage of the crop coinciding with high temperature stress. Late planting also causes reduction in the duration of tillering period and leads to forced maturity thus reducing the grain yield due to exposure to hot weather during the critical stage of crop growth that is the grain filling period. Planting technique of wheat that includes zero tillage, bed planting, conventional tillage with mulching and surface residue retention increases grain yield as compared to conventional tillage. Also provision of additional irrigation water at critical stages and skip ping during the dough and ripening stages increases the yield of wheat under high temperature. Application of certain chemicals can help in mitigating the adverse impact of high temperature stress (Jena et al., 2017).\r\nMATERIAL AND METHODS\r\nThis experiment was conducted in split plot design with wheat variety (NW-5054) at Student Instructional Farms and Seed Testing Laboratory of Acharya Narendra Deva University of Agriculture and Technology (Kumarganj), Ayodhya. The region receives a mean annual rainfall of about 1100mm. Out of which about 85 per cent is concentrated from mid-June to end of September. The winter months are very cold whereas summers are hot and dry. A western hot wind starts from the end of March and continues till the month of May. In this experiment 3 different dates of sowing as treatments, which was 25-30 Nov.(D1), 10-15 Dec.(D2) and 01-05 January (D3) with replications. All the recommended cultural practices were adopted and the observations were recorded on five random plants from each replication. Other cultural practices followed as per recommendation and requirement of crop. Yield components and seed quality parameters recorded at harvest. \r\nField observations. These observations recorded on field level condition which is follow as\r\n1. Days of 50% Heading: The days to 50% flowering was recorded as number of days taken from the date of sowing to appearance of flower on 50% plant population.\r\n2. Days to maturity (DM): The maturity duration of the crop for each treatment was assessed by visual appearance of grains and colours of leaves particularly flag leaf. The crop is matured when flag leaf become yellowish and about half of other leaves were also yellow.\r\n3. Plant height (cm): Five plants were randomly selected from each plot. The plant height was measured in cm from the soil surface to basal portion to flag leaf at harvest stage.\r\n4. Number of tillers/m2: Number of tillers were recorded one meter row length from three places in each plot at harvest stage of crop growth and averaged. Finally the tillers expressed in number of tillers /m2.\r\n5. Spike length (cm): The five spikes were selected randomly from each net plot area and their lengths were measured in cm from the base of spike to the tip of the last spikelet and average values were taken.\r\n6. Spike weight: Five randomly selected spikes were weighted and values were recorded.\r\n7. Spikelet\'s/spike: The number of spikelet\'s in the main spike was counted.\r\n8. Seed/spike: Five randomly selected spikes were threshed and their seeds were counted and averaged and expressed as number of seed spike-1.\r\n9. Seed weight spike-1: The seed of five spikes were weighted and values were recorded.\r\n10. Seed Index: Random seed samples were collected from the produce of each net plot and 100-seeds were counted and weighted in gram with the help of electronic balance.\r\n11. Test Weight (1000-grain weight g): Random grain samples were collected from the produce of each net plot and 1000-grains were counted and weighed in gram with the help of electronic balance.\r\n12. Straw yield (qha-1): The straw yield for each net plot was obtained after subtracting the seed yield from total biological yield and converted in to q ha-1.\r\n13. Biological yield (kg/ha-1): All the above ground biomass of experimental crop of each plot was harvest sun dried and weighed in kg plot-1.\r\n14. Seed yield (kg/ha-1): The seeds ware obtained after threshing of the net plot area was weighed as seeds yield kg plot-1.\r\n15. Seed recovery: \r\n Seed recovery (%) \r\n= Weight of the seed retained on sieve × 100\r\n Total weight of seed\r\n16. Harvest index (%): The ratio of seed yield to biological yield (dry matter) was considered as harvest index which expressed in percentage and calculated with the help of following formula.\r\nHarvest index (%) = Seed Yield × 100\r\n Biological Yield\r\n17. Seed germination: To obtained the germination per cent of wheat seed by the between paper method with germination paper (ISTA, 1976). One hundred randomly selected seed in each replication from each treatment placed on already water soaked germination paper, which were rolled after covering them with another water soaked germination paper. The rolled germination papers were covered with butter paper and kept in seed germinator at 21.5°C and 75% RH. After 8th days the germination per cent were recorded on the basis of normal seed ling emergence. \r\nGermination (%) \r\n = Number of seed germinated × 100\r\n Number of Seed plated\r\n18. Speed of germination: The seeds are grown in 4 replicates of 50 seeds. Number of germinated seeds are counted daily and the index for the speed of germination is calculated by the formula suggested by Maguire (1962).\r\n19. Root length: The length of the roots was measured from collar region down to the tip of the longest root of each seedling and the average was expressed in cm. \r\n20. Shoot length: Ten normal seedling were randomly selected from each replication of the standard germination test on the 8th day and length of shoots was measured from collar region to the tip of top most leaf and expressed in cm.\r\n21. Seeding length: At the end of the germination test, ten normal seedlings from each replication were carefully removed at random and seedling length was measured from the tip of leaf to the tip of the primary root excluding the seed region and the mean value was calculated and expressed in cm.\r\n22. Seedling dry weight: The randomly selected seeding for measuring seedling length obtained after final count were dried at 70 +1°C for 24 hours in hot air oven, and dry weight in milligrams was determined by weighing them in an electronic balance.\r\n23. Seed vigour Index: Seed vigour index was calculated by adopting the following formula as suggested by Abdul-Baki and Anderson (1973) and was expressed in whole number.\r\nSeed Vigour Index(I) = Mean Germination (%) × Mean Seedling length (cm)\r\nSeed Vigour Index(II) = Mean Germination (%) × Mean Seedling Dry Weight (mg)\r\nStatistical Analysis: An experiment will be conducted under split plot design with three replications under field conditions. The data obtained from various experiments subjected to statistical analysis as per recommended. 1. Standard error (SE): The standard error is a statistical term that measures the accuracy with which a simple represents a population. In statistics, a sample mean deviates from the actual mean of the population this deviation is the standard error. 2. Critical difference (CD): Which refers to a value indicating the least significant difference at values greater than all the differences are significant is present.\r\nRESULT\r\nDays of 50% Flowering and Maturity. 50% flowering and maturity was recorded maximum days in 25th – 30th November as compared to other date of sowing. A series of reduction in days of 50% flowering and maturity was recorded with delay in sowing during both years. The first date of sowing has been taken highest number of days in 50% flowering (84.07 and 84.73) and maturity (127.33 and 128.33) both years respectively followed by December 10th – 15th (50% flowering 73.53 and 74.60 days and maturity 110.0 and 109.87 days) and January 1th – 5th sown wheat (50% flowering 63 and 64 days and maturity 87.40 and 86.13 days). Minimum days of 50% flowering (63 and 64 days) and maturity (87.40 and 86.13 days) was recorded with last sowing date on 1th – 5th January.\r\nPlant Height and Tillers/m2. 25th – 30th November recorded highest height (100.78cm and 97.03cm) and number of tillers/m2 (370.87 and 348.80) in plants of wheat in both years respectively followed by10th – 15th December (97.27cm and 97.17cm plant height and 261.93 and 261.60 tillers/m2) and 1th – 5th January sown wheat (81.97cm and 82.04cm plant height and 226.93 and 227.40 tillers/m2). The lowest plant height (81.97cm and 82.04cm) and number of tillers/m2 (226.93 and 227.40) was recorded with last sowing date on1th – 5th January.\r\nSpike Length (cm) and Spike Weight (g). The first date of sowing on 25th – 30th November resulted highest spike length (10.52cm and 11.27cm) and spike weight (2.71g and 2.70g) respectively and followed by10th – 15th December (10.56cm and 10.77cm spike length and 2.28g and 2.28g spike weight) and 1th – 5th January sown wheat (9.67cm and 9.80cm spike length and 1.71g and 1.71g spike weight). Minimum spike length (9.67cm and 9.80cm) and spike weight (1.71g and 1.71g) was recorded with last date of sowing on1th – 5thJanuary during both years.\r\nSpikelet\'s/Spike and Seed/Spike. First date of sowing resulted highest number of spikelet\'s/spike (19.53 and 20.13) and seed/spike (43.47 and 43.87) in both years respectively followed by December 10th – 15th (15.07 and 14.73 spikelet\'s/spike and 40 and 40.27 seed/spike) and January 1th – 5th sown wheat (14.67 and 14.47 spikelet\'s/spike and 36.13 and 36.87 seed/spike). The lowest numbers of spikelet\'s/spike (14.67 and 14.47) and seed/spike (36.13 and 36.87) was recorded with last date of sowing on 1th – 5th January.\r\nSeed Weight/Spike and Seed Index (100 Seeds Weight). 25th – 30th November recorded highest seed weight/spike (1.90g and 1.97g) and seed Index (3.72g and 3.73g weight) followed by 10th – 15th December (1.62g and 1.67g seed weight/spike and 3.63g and 3.63g seed index) and 1th – 5th January sown wheat (1.50g and 1.51g seed weight/spike and 2.64g and 2.67g seed index). The minimum seed weight/spike (1.50g and 1.51g) and seed Index (2.64g and 2.67g weight) was recorded with last sowing date on 1th – 5th January during both the experiment.\r\nTest Weight (1000 Seeds) and Straw Yield (q/ha-1). The second date of sowing resulted maximum test weight (36.59g and 36.61g) followed by 25th – 30th November (35.89g and 36.11g) and January 1th – 5th sown wheat (28.12g and 28.04g) and straw yield (q/ha-1) was recorded maximum (70.86 and 70.95 q/ha-1) on 25th – 30th November followed by December 10th – 15th (66.96 and 67 q/ha-1) and January 1th – 5th (61.86 and 61.79 q/ha-1) sown wheat during years of 2020-21 and 2021-22. The minimum test weight (28.12g and 28.04g) and straw yield (61.86 and 61.79 q/ha-1) was recorded with last date of sowing on 1th – 5th January during both years.\r\nBiological Yield (kg/ha-1) and Seed Yield (kg/ha-1). First date of sowing resulted highest biological yield (9111.2 and 9133.6 kg/ha-1) and seed yield (3929.20 and 3931.0 kg/ha-1) over 10th – 15th December (8219.3 and 8226.8 kg/ha-1 biological yield and 3407.07 and 3393.60 kg/ha-1) and 1th – 5th January sown wheat (6804.0 and 6827.1 kg/ha-1biological yield and 2959.40 and 2956.0 kg/ha-1). The lowest biological yield (6804.0 and 6827.1 kg/ha-1) and seed yield (2959.40 and 2956.0 kg/ha-1) was recorded with last date of sowing on 1th – 5thJanuary during both years.\r\nSeed Recovery (%) and Harvest Index (%). 25th – 30th November recorded maximum percentage in seed recovery (96.75% and 96.76%) and harvest index (42.65% and 42.65%) followed by 10th – 15th December (93.02% and 92.74% seed recovery and 40.16% and 40.16% harvest index) and 1th – 5th January (87.42% and 87.55% seed recovery and 36.21% and 36.21% harvest index). The minimum percentage in seed recovery (87.42% and 87.55%) and harvest index (36.21% and 36.21%) was recorded with last sowing date on 1th – 5th January during both years of experiment.\r\nGermination (%) and Speed of Germination. Germination (%) and speed of germination was recorded highest on 25th – 30th November as compared to other dates of sowing. A slight reduction in germination (%) and speed of germination were observed with late sown wheat seed during both years of experiment. The first date of sowing wheat resulted highest germination (92.73% and 92.60%) and speed of germination (18.82 and 18.83) over 10th – 15th December (88.33% and 88% germination and 17.81 and 17.81 speed of germination) and 1th – 5th January sown wheat (84.93% and 85.13% germination and 16.07 and 16.06 speed of germination). The lowest germination (84.93% and 85.13%) and speed of germination (16.07 and 16.06) was recorded with last date of sowing wheat seed on 1th – 5th January during both years simultaneously.\r\nRoot Length (cm) and Shoot Length (cm). First date sown wheat seed resulted highest root length (20.43cm and 20.43cm) and shoot length (14.15cm and 14.17cm) in both years respectively followed by 10th – 15th December (18.03cm and 18.05cm root length and 12.57cm and 12.59cm shoot length) and 1th – 5th January sown wheat (15.76cm and 15.77cm root length and 11.69cm and 11.71cm shoot length). The lowest root length (15.76cm and 15.77cm) and shoot length (11.69cm and 11.71cm) was recorded with last date sown wheat seed on 1th – 5th January during both years.\r\nSeedling Length (cm) and Seedling Dry Weight (g). A trend of decrease rate in seedling length (cm) and seedling dry weight (g) was recorded with late sown wheat seeds during both years of experimentation. The first date of sowing on 25th – 30th November recorded highest seedling length (35.47cm 35.21cm) and seedling dry weight (0.158g and 0.159g) followed by 10th– 15th December (32.85cm and 32.76cm seedling length and 0.137g and 0.139g) and 1th – 5th January sown wheat (29.88cm and 29.86cm seedling length and 0.123g and 0.125g). Minimum seedling length (29.88cm and 29.86cm) and seedling dry weight (0.123g and 0.125g) was recorded with last date sown wheat seed on 1th – 5th January.\r\nVigour Index I and Vigour Index II: 25th – 30th November resulted highest vigour Index I (3416.73 and 3418.13) and vigour Index II (15.88 and 15.90) followed by 10th – 15th December (3304.87 and 3305.73 vigour index I and 12.86 and 12.87 vigour index II) and 1th – 5th January sown wheat (3106.53 and 3107.13 vigour index I and 10.38 and 10.39 vigour index II). Lowest vigour Index I (3106.53 and 3107.13) and vigour Index II (10.38 and 10.39) was recorded with last date sown wheat seed on 1th – 5th January during both years.\r\nDISCUSSION\r\nThe first date of sowing has been taken highest number of days in 50% flowering (84.07 and 84.73) and maturity (127.33 and 128.33) followed by December 10th – 15th (50% flowering 73.53 and 74.60 days and maturity 110.0 and 109.87 days). Minimum days of 50% flowering (63 and 64 days) and maturity (87.40 and 86.13 days) was recorded with last sowing date on 1th– 5th January. These results were also supported by Singh et al. (2021). Plant height and number of tillers/m2 were recorded maximum on 25th – 30th November (100.78cm and 97.03cm plant height and 370.87 and 348.80 number of tillers/m2) followed by10th – 15th December (97.27cm and 97.17cm plant height and 261.93 and 261.60 tillers/m2). The lowest plant height (81.97cm and 82.04cm) and number of tillers/m2 (226.93 and 227.40) was recorded with last sowing date on 1th – 5th January. Above findings have been reported by several workers, Dar et al. (2018); Kamrozzaman et al., (2016); Madhu et al. (2018); Bashir et al. (2016). Spike length and spike weight were recorded maximum on 25th – 30th November (10.52cm and 11.27cm spike length and spike weight 2.71g and 2.70g respectively) followed by 10th – 15th December (10.56cm and 10.77cm spike length and 2.28g and 2.28g spike weight). Minimum spike length (9.67cm and 9.80cm) and spike weight (1.71g and 1.71g) was recorded with last date of sowing on1th – 5th January. Above results have been reported by several workers, Madhu et al. (2018), Praveen et al. (2018) and Singh et al.(2021). The numbers of spikelet\'s/spike (19.53 and 20.13) and seed/spike (43.47 and 43.87) recorded maximum on 25th – 30th November followed by December 10th – 15th (15.07 and 14.73 spikelet\'s/spike and 40 and 40.27 seed/spike) and lowest on January 1th – 5th sown wheat (14.67 and 14.47 spikelet\'s/spike and 36.13 and 36.87 seed/spike). Above results also supported by Madhu et al. (2018); Praveen et al. (2018); Singh et al. (2021); Kamrozzaman et al. (2016). Seed weight/spike (1.90g and 1.97g) and seed Index (3.72g and 3.73g weight) was recorded maximum on 25th – 30th November followed by 10th – 15th December (1.62g and 1.67g seed weight/spike and 3.63g and 3.63g seed index). The minimum seed weight/spike (1.50g and 1.51g) and seed Index (2.64g and 2.67g weight) was recorded with last sowing date on 1th – 5th January.Above results also supported by Shirinzadeh et al. (2017); Madhu et al.(2018); Kamrozzaman et al. (2016); Pathania et al. (2018); Singh et al. (2021). Test weight (36.59g and 36.61g) was recorded maximum on 10th – 15th December followed by 25th – 30th November (35.89g and 36.11g) and January 1th – 5th (28.12g and 28.04g) and straw yield (q/ha-1) was recorded maximum (70.86 and 70.95 q/ha-1) on 25th – 30th November followed by December 10th – 15th (66.96 and 67 q/ha-1) and January 1th – 5th (61.86 and 61.79 q/ha-1). The minimum test weight (28.12g and 28.04g) and straw yield (61.86 and 61.79 q/ha-1) was recorded with last date of sowing on 1th – 5th January. Above finding also have been reported by Madhu et al. (2018); Kamrozzaman et al. (2016); Pathania et al. (2018); Singh et al. (2021); Singh et al. (2017); Akram et al. (2016); Thorat et al. (2015). However, Biological yield (kg/ha-1) and seed yield (kg/ha-1) were recorded highest on 25th – 30th November (9111.2 and 9133.6 kg/ha-1 biological yield and seed yield 3929.20 and 3931.0 kg/ha-1) over 10th – 15th December (8219.3 and 8226.8 kg/ha-1 biological yield and 3407.07 and 3393.60 kg/ha-1 seed yield). The lowest biological yield (6804.0 and 6827.1 kg/ha-1) and seed yield (2959.40 and 2956.0 kg/ha-1) was recorded with last date of sowing on 1th – 5th January. Above finding also have been reported by Singh et al.(2021); Akram et al. (2016); Shirinzadeh et al. (2017); Ali et al. (2017); Singh et al. (2021); Wahid et al. (2017); Verma et al. (2016). The seed recovery (%) and harvest index (%) was recorded maximum on 25th – 30th November (96.75% and 96.76% seed recovery and harvest index 42.65% and 42.65%) followed by 10th – 15th December (93.02% and 92.74% seed recovery and 40.16% and 40.16% harvest index). The minimum percentage in seed recovery (87.42% and 87.55%) and harvest index (36.21% and 36.21%) was recorded with last sowing date on 1th – 5th January during both years. These results also supported by Vishwanath et al. (2019); Singh et al. (2021); Akram et al. (2016); Dhaka et al. (2006). Germination (92.73% and 92.60%) and speed of germination (18.82 and 18.83) was recorded maximum on 25th – 30th November over 10th – 15th December (88.33% and 88% germination and 17.81 and 17.81 speed of germination). The lowest germination (84.93% and 85.13%) and speed of germination (16.07 and 16.06) was recorded with last date of sown wheat seed on 1th – 5th January. Above finding also have been reported by Praveen et al. (2018); Ali et al. (2018); Chaithra et al. (2017). Root length (20.43cm and 20.43cm) and shoot length (14.15cm and 14.17cm) was recorded maximum on 25th – 30th November followed by 10th – 15th December (18.03cm and 18.05cm root length and 12.57cm and 12.59cm shoot length). The lowest root length (15.76cm and 15.77cm) and shoot length (11.69cm and 11.71cm) was recorded with last date sown wheat seed on 1th – 5th January. Above finding also have been supported by Ali et al. (2018); Shaheb et al. (2016); Chaithra et al. (2017). The seedling length (cm) and seedling dry weight (g) was recorded highest on 25th – 30th November sown wheat seed (35.47cm 35.21cm seedling length and seedling dry weight 0.158g and 0.159g) followed by 10th – 15th December (32.85cm and 32.76cm seedling length and 0.137g and 0.139g seedling dry weight). Minimum seedling length (29.88cm and 29.86cm) and seedling dry weight (0.123g and 0.125g) was recorded with last date sown wheat seed on 1th – 5th January. Above finding also have been reported by Ali et al. (2018); Shaheb et al. (2016); Chaithra et al. (2017). Vigour Index I and vigour Index II were recorded highest on 25th – 30th November (3416.73 and 3418.13 vigour Index I and vigour Index II 15.88 and 15.90) followed by 10th – 15th December (3304.87 and 3305.73 vigour index I and 12.86 and 12.87 vigour index II). Lowest vigour Index I (3106.53 and 3107.13) and vigour Index II (10.38 and 10.39) was recorded with last date sown wheat seed on 1th – 5th January. Above finding also have been supported by Ali et al. (2018); Shaheb et al. (2016); Chaithra et al. (2017).\r\n','Himanshu Singh and S.C. Vimal (2022). Optimum Date of Sowing for Maximization of Seed Yield and its Quality Parameters in Wheat (Triticum aestivum L.). Biological Forum – An International Journal, 14(2a): 63-70.'),(5113,'134','Studies on Influence of different Regimes of Irrigations and Fertigation Levels on Growth and Quality Parameters of Cucumber Grown under Protected condition','Yashavantakumar K.H.*, Mantur S.M., Biradar M.S., Rajkumar S. and Hebsur N.S.','12 Studies on Influence of different Regimes of Irrigations and Fertigation Levels on Growth and Quality Parameters of Cucumber Grown under Protected condition Yashavantakumar KH.pdf','',1,'One of the major cucurbitaceous vegetable crops grown in subtropical areas of the world is the cucumber (Cucumis sativus L.). At the Hi-tech Horticulture unit, Agriculture Research Station, University of Agricultural Sciences, Dharwad, researchers looked at the effects of irrigation and fertigation on the growth, yield, and quality parameters of parthenocarpic cucumber grown under naturally ventilated polyhouse for two seasons in 2019–20 and 2020–21. According to the studies, irrigation and fertigation have a substantial impact on the growth and yield of parthenocarpic cucumbers grown in polyhouses. TSS was high at I1F4 in terms of quality metrics (3.60, 3.50 and 3.55 o brix in first and second season followed by pooled data). In the first and second seasons, which were followed by pooled data, ascorbic acid content was quite high at I2F3 (3.73, 3.75, and 3.74 mg 100g-1). I2F4 (80 percent ETc and 120 percent RDF) had the largest plant height at 90 days after planting, the highest average fruit weight (158.13 g), the highest number of fruits per vine (24.76), the highest yield (18.40 kg m-2) (92.01 q 500m-2), and the highest number of fruits per plant (184.02 t ha-1). In comparison to other treatment combinations, the significant yield was caused by better usage of the water at 80 per cent and the recommended amount of fertilizers by lowering percolation losses of water and reduction in leaching nutrients. We can infer from this study that 20 per cent of the water and energy needed to supply that water can be saved. Hence, drip irrigation under greenhouse cultivation is concentrated to supply irrigation water and fertilizers to rhizosphere through various phases of nutrient demand of a crop. Therefore, keeping in view all the perspectives of protected cultivation and fertigation, the present investigation was framed to study the performance of greenhouse cucumber in varying levels of fertilizer doses.','Cucumber, parthenocarpic, polyhouse, fertigation, ascorbic acid','From this study, it is evident that adopting I2F4 (80% ETc with 120% RDF) is most profitable compared to other treatments and 20 per cent of irrigation and energy required to supply the irrigation can be saved , which can reduce the cost of cultivation of cucumber. It was important to notice that by using considerably less amount of irrigation water (20%), the higher productivity was achieved. This was a significant step towards good agricultural practices to get more production by using minimum possible resources in view of suitability which otherwise cause soil health problems like salinity reduced microbial activity, degradation of soil productivity due to addition of high inputs that had been a characteristic feature of greenhouse cultivation. Further, there is a need of mulching studies along with best treatment combination from the present investigation.','INTRODUCTION\r\nThe most popular and economically grown vegetable crop under protected conditions is cucumber (Cucumis sativus L.). More people like hybrid parthenocarpic cucumbers. Without pollination, parthenocarpic plants can produce fruit. Parthenocarpic is a beneficial trait for cucumbers cultivated in protected culture systems because pollinators are not necessary in this situation. Cucumbers are collected when they are still developing and before the seeds have fully matured. Cucumbers without seeds are preferred by consumers. Another reason parthenocarpic cucumber plants are recommended for growing in sheltered conditions is because the fruit they produce is seedless. Because of its demand, it is grown throughout the year. It is consumed as salad, sandwich and pizza preparations etc. It is a rich source of vitamin B, carbohydrates, calcium and phosphorous. It also contains iodine and contains a total 4-6% of dry sugars, 0.1% of fat (Rana 2008). The flavor of cucumber is due to two compounds 2, 6-nonadienal and 2, 6 - nonadenol. The pleasant aroma of cucumber is derived from the 2, 6-nandienal with assistance from 2-hexenal.\r\nEstimating the crop\'s water consumption based on evapotranspiration is necessary to create an efficient irrigation strategy (ET). The idea of crop coefficient (Kc) is required because greenhouse crops must be managed differently than outside crops due to changes in plant spacing, crop height (which requires the use of vertical supports), and aerodynamic qualities (Fernandez et al., 2005; Orgaz et al., 2005). According to some researchers, greenhouse crops require less water than crops grown outdoors since the sun radiation is 18 to 20 per cent lower and the wind speed is constrained (Harmanto et al., 2005). This results in lower crop evapotranspiration (Patel and Rajput 2011) potentially; fertigation can lessen the movement of nutrients away from the root zone. This contributes to decreasing the input costs by enhancing the efficiency of the usage of water and fertiliser (Bar -Yosef, 1999; Solaimalai et al., 2005).\r\nMATERIALS AND METHODS\r\nThe goal of the current research is to better understand how irrigation and fertigation levels affect parthenocarpic cucumber performance in naturally ventilated polyhouses. The experiment was conducted in 2019–20 and 2020–21 at the Hi-Tech Horticulture Unit of the University of Agricultural Sciences, Dharwad. It is located at 15°26\'N latitude and 75°70\' E longitude, at an elevation of 678 m above mean sea level, in the northern transitional tract of Karnataka State. A Factorial randomized block design with three replications was used to set up the experiment. The first factor consists of three irrigation (I) regimes, I1 (60%ETc), I2 (80% ETc) and I3 (100 % ETc) and second factor is having four fertilizer (F) levels, F1 (60% RDF), F2 (80% RDF), F3(100 % RDF) and F4 (120% RDF),where RDF is 150:75:75 NPK kg ha -1 . Planting was done with a spacing of 45 × 45cm with plot size of 8X1 m.\r\nRESULTS AND DISCUSSION\r\nTables 1, 2 and 3 present the findings from two years\' worth of pooled data. Fruits varied significantly in terms of quality metrics like TSS and ascorbic acid concentration. At lower levels of irrigation regimes, TSS and ascorbic acid contents were high.TSS was high at I1 - 60 per cent of ETc (3.51, 3.42 and 3.46o brix in first and second season followed by pooled data). Fertigation with F4 -120 per cent of RDF showed higher TSS (3.58, 3.48 and 3.53 o brix in first and second season followed by pooled data). In case of interaction effect, highest TSS was observed in I1F4 -60 per cent ETc and 120 per cent RDF (3.60, 3.50 and 3.55obrix in first and second season followed by pooled data). Ascorbic acid content was very high at I3 (3.60, 3.64 and 3.62 mg 100g-1 in first and second season followed by pooled data), fertigation at F4-120 per cent of RD F(3.57, 3.61 and 3.59 mg 100g-1 in first and second season followed by pooled data) and in interaction studies, I2F3 - 80 per cent of ETc and 100 per cent of RDF(3.73, 3.75 and 3.74 mg 100g-1in first and second season followed by pooled data.) recorded higher ascorbic acid. It was due to lesser content in the fruit; hence there may be higher concentration of sugar and total soluble solids. Whereas in case of treatment combinations of fertigation and irrigation I1F4, I1F3, I2F4 and I3F4 had higher values for TSS and ascorbic acid compared to the treatment combinations having higher moisture and less nutrient combinations. It was interesting to note that, TSS content was reduced in the larger fruits that are obtained by higher irrigation levels (Sanders et al., 1989; Aladenola and Madramootoo 2014; Lee and Kader 2000)\r\nThe highest vine length at 90 DAP (224.86 cm) recorded at I2 (80% ETc), which was comparable with I3 (100% ETc) (224.98 cm). Irrigation at I1 (60% ETc) recorded the lowest vine length (214.69 cm). Where F4 (120% RDF) recorded the highest vine length (242.38 cm), which was statistically superior over F3 (100% RDF) (230.16 cm). Fertigation at F4 (120% RDF) and F3 (100% RDF) realized significantly highest vine length. Interaction effect between irrigation regimes and fertigation levels have no significant effect on vine length. \r\nThe average fruit weight for irrigation regime I2 (80% ETc) was 150.21 g, which was on par with I3\'s average fruit weight of 149.95 g. The fertigation F4 (120 percent RDF) had the highest average fruit weight (156.45 g), which was followed by F3 (100 % RDF) at 150.12 g in. I2F4 treatment combinations produced 158.13 g. Average fruit weights of I3F4 157.04 g and I1F4 154.16 g were significantly greater. I3 (100 % ETc) had the considerably highest number of fruits per vine (23.31), followed by I2 (80 % ETc) (23.14), and Fertigation at F4 (120 % RDF), which had the significantly highest number of fruits per vine (23.92). In the I2F4 treatment combination; a significantly larger quantity of fruits per vine (24.76) was observed. The maximum fruit output per vine, 3.90 kg, was produced by I3 (100 % ETc). 4.07 kg was the highest fruit output per vine. The results of the present experiment are in agreement with the findings of Gupta et al. (2014) in capsicum. The treatment combinations of I2F4 (4.14 kg) registered considerably increased fruit production.I3 recorded the noticeably highest yield per square meter (17.31 kg) (100 % ETc). \r\nSignificantly greater fruit output per square meter was obtained during fertilization at F4 (120 percent RDF) (18.09 kg). Best yield per square meter by a significant margin (18.40 kg) I3 produced the highest yield per 500 m2 (86.56 q/500 m2) (100 % ETc). The maximum yield was obtained when using F4 (120 per cent RDF; 90.44 q/500 m2). The maximum yield of I2F4 treatment combinations was recorded (92.0 q /500 m2). I3 produced the highest output (173.12 t ha-1) on record (100 % ETc). The maximum yield was reported by F4 (120 % RDF) (180.87 t ha-1). The I2F4 treatment combination had a yield of 184.02 t ha-1, which was comparable to that of I1F4, I2F3, I3F2, I3F3, and I3F4, but much higher than that of other fertigation treatments. I1F1 recorded the lowest yield (125.02 t ha-1), nevertheless. The current results are in agreement with Janapriya et al. (2010) and Patil and Gadge (2016), who discovered a considerably higher cucumber fruit production with increased fertigation levels.\r\n','Yashavantakumar K.H., Mantur S.M., Biradar M.S., Rajkumar S. and Hebsur N.S. (2022). Studies on Influence of different Regimes of Irrigations and Fertigation Levels on Growth and Quality Parameters of Cucumber Grown under Protected condition. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 14(2a): 71-75.'),(5114,'114','Meta-analysis of PIT tagging effects on fish growth and mortality','Dheeran P., Binu Varghese and Ajay Valiyaveettil Salimkumar*','9 Meta-analysis of PIT tagging effects on fish growth and mortality Ajay Valiyaveettil Salimkumar.pdf','',1,'Portable antennas have grown in popularity as a means of tracking fish using Passive Integrated Transponder (PIT) tags. PIT tags have made it possible to conduct scientific work into a variety of ecological features of animals since they were first developed in the middle of the 1980s for a range of uses including fisheries and aquaculture. The small, alphanumeric coded chip injected into individual animals provides more precise measurements of growth rates, feeding and breeding behaviours, movement patterns, and survival rates than the conventional methods of outwardly marking animals for identification. Fish ecology research frequently uses PIT tags, and their viability in migratory species has been thoroughly examined. Animals taken from the wild without permission, including zoo animals, pets, migrating birds, and endangered species, have also had their identities verified using PIT tags. PIT tags are enabling improvements in conservation biology and physiology as well as greater comprehension of the social connections among animals. PIT tags bring up a world of possibilities for resolving intractable animal problems despite their drawbacks, which include a high price, a limited detection range, and the potential for tag loss during migration in some circumstances. There is still a lack of knowledge about the tagging study on the identification of suitable release sites and facilities for continuous stock monitoring. This review on tagging study helps to overcome the seed production of commercially important species such as selective breeding programmes, is required.','PIT tag, antennas, breeding, movement, survival, feeding, migratory','The PIT tag is a reputable, secure, and safe way to identify commercially significant species. It is currently the best tag for mass tagging individual fish, despite being relatively expensive. The PIT tag can be used once more after disinfection. Through effective management practises, it is possible to increase tagged fish survival rates in hatcheries, leading to increased tag recovery and fewer tag losses. Therefore, it appears that the PIT tag is currently the most palatable technique for tagging migratory species, especially for endangered species with proper tag size and size class juveniles.','INTRODUCTION\r\nIn biological research, PIT tagging is a technique for locating and tracking species. It entails implanting a PIT tag scanner-readable electronic microchip with an alphanumeric code into a person of interest [31]. Since their development in the middle of the 1980s, PIT tags have been widely used for individualised fish monitoring throughout the world, and their popularity has grown [31]. PIT-tags use straightforward tagging procedures and are inexpensive, lightweight, and durable [63]. PIT tags have been used in several animal models since the 1980s to gather biological and population demographic information [31]. Since their introduction in the early 1980s, internal tags, particularly PIT tags, have seen a substantial increase in popularity. PIT tags have been used to identify hundreds of thousands of individual fish. PIT tags have been employed in research on predation rates [9], individual movement [12], feeding behaviour [9], and habitat utilisation [8]. The detection range of a PIT tag is especially important in applications where fish are not recaptured but are tracked remotely using a fixed or portable antenna. PIT-tag detection data is frequently used to identify stocks [38], track their movements [53], track their migration patterns [41], determine their abundance [2], track their growth, and estimate their mortality [41]. These data cannot be altered by the PIT tags either directly or indirectly. Individual tagging is a typical scientific practise in fisheries. Important ecological and demographic data, such as information on survival [50], development [35], migration [65], and habitat use, can be obtained by identifying and following specific individuals over time and space [47]. PIT tags are frequently used when a large number of fish need to be marked for ecological conclusions because of their low cost and relative simplicity of use [4]. PIT tags are used in numerous large-scale population tracking and activity studies [52]. Fish field research has traditionally included individual animal identification using internal and external tags. External tags such as Jumbo Roto tags, Petersen disc tags and dart tags have been utilised in shark tagging research [43].\r\nThere are other tagging techniques, such as painted labels, dart tags, or leg bands, but the bulk of these are exterior, making their codes more subject to environmental factors that could make them difficult to read [62]. PIT tagging, on the other hand, avoids codes from becoming unclear or lost as an internal type of labelling, making it suitable for use in both short-term and long-term research [36, 37]. Brewer et al., [14] revealed that PIT tagging had great retention and survival rates, making it ideal for application [7]. PIT tagging is also been used in reptile experiments [16]. Much research concerning fish physiology and behaviour, such as swimming efficiency, has been used for tagging [28]. On the other hand, these studies have discovered that the PIT tag\'s implantation and existence had no impact on the measurements of the variable.\r\nFish must be classified separately since performance varies substantially among individuals of various sizes [3, 41]. This should ideally begin as early as possible and continue for as long as possible. The best candidates for small fish labelling are PITs [58]. These tiny tags have billions of distinct codes and an infinite lifespan, allowing them to be used on massive fish samples [12, 58]. PIT tags have mostly been used in the management of large fish husbandry [38]. The detection range of larger tags is often wider than that of smaller tags. Small tags can be used on relatively juvenile fish and have less effect on the growth, survival, and behaviour of the animals; but, depending on the species, they typically have a limited detection range. \r\nThe effects of the tagging process and the physical effects of tags on animal performance and health have been known to fisheries biologists [39]. Feasibility studies on tag assessment are highly encouraged when there is no detailed data on the individual species available, both to confirm findings and for ethical reasons, as physiological and behavioural responses to specific tagging procedures differ significantly between species [6, 64].\r\nThe duration and intensity of the perturbation caused by the tagging protocols and the presence of tag were characterised based on survival, growth, tag retention, healing progress, and body weights to assess the suitability of the tagging technique and to determine the minimum size at which fishes can be successfully tagged. PIT tags have been used for both identifying specific broodstock [38], and for studying individual development, action, mobility, and passage past dams [12, 60]. Using a hypodermic needle to insert a PIT tag into the peritoneal cavity (Fig. 1). has shown to be a very successful technique for tagging juvenile salmonids [58]. Researchers found that the survival of juvenile Oreochromis niloticus (also called Tilapia nilotica) that had been PIT-tagged in this manner was low (10–50%) and positively associated with fish size. This was due to the difficulty of controlling needle penetration [6]. Although this has not been proven for salmonids [58], hypodermic needles used are also been found not sufficient for PIT-tagging warm-water fishes in habitats with fish infections due to poorly tagged fish survival [7]. \r\nTo PIT-tag juvenile salmonids in the peritoneal cavity, surgical treatments (such as employing scalpels to create incisions for tag insertion) provide an alternative to using a hypodermic needle [6]. Similar techniques were used in the past to implant PIT tags in the body cavity of small Salmo salar [60]. The juvenile fish size prevents surgically inserted PIT tags on juvenile salmonids to be verified for retention and survival [60]. Salmonids have long been the focus of tagging efforts due to their ecological and cultural significance.\r\nA. Tag Position \r\nThe brood fish\'s physiology is unaffected by the tag because it is inserted in their dorsal muscles. It makes up a relatively little portion of their total body weight. The majority of the experiments have been done to assess whether it is feasible to implant PIT tags into the body cavity of small juveniles [13, 58]. Body cavity insertions have been performed just posterior to the pelvic fins [6] or just before the fins [33]. PIT tags are frequently inserted into fish by making an incision with a scalpel and injecting them with a needle into the coelomic cavity [7, 58]; or the dorsal muscle [26] (Fig. 2). Forceps were used to manually insert a 125 kHz PIT tag (EM4102 Injectable Transponder Animal Tags; 8.0 2.0 mm, 0.06 g) into the abdominal cavity [4]. An index calibrated using histology data was used to visually monitor the incision\'s closure [54] (Fig. 4). Scalpel incisions were used to make an opening through which PIT tags were inserted into the abdomen of Hybognathus amarus, a small-bodied minnow. This method was found to increase survival when compared to injecting tags into the belly with a syringe and plunger [4] (Fig. 3).\r\n \r\nB. Post Tagging Retention \r\nPIT tags that are implanted into the peritoneal cavity have demonstrated high retention rates of above 95% in numerous studies [58]. For the majority of field experiments, PIT tag retention (Fig. 5). should be examined to assure accurate parameter data (e.g., mortality or population abundance). Anatomical placement, seasonal fish activity (such as spawning), and fish size may also affect PIT tag retention [6]. PIT tags can be implanted subcutaneously into the dorsal site or the peritoneal cavity, with some researchers recommending sutures or adhesive to heal entry wounds [6, 60]. Some field studies of estuarine fishes with PIT tags incorporate mortality, survival, growth and tag retention data from other species to support tag loss assumptions [42]. \r\nFew studies have compared retention rates, even though many have found the rate of retention at this anatomical position. PIT tags that were inserted into the peritoneal cavity have reportedly been found to be shed tags by mature fish at the time of spawning [58]. Because of this, retention rates may decline during the peak spawning seasons, however, little study has examined this. The size of the fish may also have an impact on tag retention [6].\r\nFinally, controlled laboratory or aquaculture protocols account for the majority of PIT tag retention estimations. However, they might not accurately simulate environmental elements that affect retention, such as increased swimming during floods, the effects of heat on the healing of the tag insertion site, and the rigours of spawning. Additionally, earlier PIT tag studies have shown strong retention and identification rates, which are the two fundamental tenets of the majority of acquisition models [56]. It is not usual for field studies on estuarine fishes to provide no information on the target species\' development, survival, or tag retention [30].\r\nC. Factors Needed to be Considered While PIT Tagging to Minimize Stress\r\nA). Fish Health. When it comes to evaluating stress levels following tagging, the health of the fish being tagged is crucial. Fish that are infected with a bacterial, viral, or fungal disease should not be used for tagging, and the survival rate will be low due to the stress involved with the tagging procedure. PIT-tagging activities should be postponed until the illness outbreak is under control, or healthy fish should be used for tagging [57].\r\nB). Temperature. Increased temperatures reduce tagged fish to cope with stress. It is necessary to maintain optimal tagging temperatures for both cold and warm water fish. Tagging coldwater fish below five degrees Celsius has little effect on the fish. Coldwater fish are easily stressed when the temperature rises above 15 degrees Celsius. During tagging fish in temperatures above 15°C, precautions should be taken to avoid mortality. Monitor the fish in holding tanks with proper aeration and in anaesthetic baths with proper concentration, and stop operations immediately if fish begin to show indications of stress. It is not suggested to tag coldwater fish in temperatures over 17°C, and handling fish in temperatures above 20°C must be avoided. To avoid working with increased temperatures, tagging should be performed early in the morning when temperatures will be lowest or wait for a suitable temperature if you\'re tagging coldwater species [57].\r\nC). Oxygen. At very low oxygen levels, fish stress increases. It is critical to provide continual aeration to recovery tanks and anaesthetic baths. Because warm water holds less oxygen, oxygen becomes increasingly vital as the water temperature rises. There are two methods for obtaining oxygen. One method is to use air or oxygen to bubble through the water. An air pump and air stones can be used to provide air. Oxygen cylinders can be used to provide oxygen. Running fresh water through your recovery tank is another approach to provide oxygen. In the case of Coldwater species, it helps to keep the temperature in the recovery tank similar to that of the stream [57]. \r\nD). Fish Handling. Fish stress levels during tagging can be influenced by how you handle them. When scoop-netting fish, try to avoid chasing them around. Avoid catching too many fish at the same time in the scoop net for tagging. The experimental set-up should be ready so you can catch fish for sedating in an anaesthetic bath immediately. If you need to transport fish over small distances, use a sanctuary net. As the water temperature rises, stress management becomes more consideration. Avoid handling fish twice. Stress builds up over time, therefore if you disturb the same fish several times at the same time, the stress level of the fish will increase [57].\r\n E). Aggregation. Increased density can also lead to increased stress levels in the tagged fish, especially if you rearing too many tagged fish in the rearing tank. Decrease fish density if too much dense in the rearing tank. If aggregation of fish occurs in the rearing system, avoid increased density of tagged samples. Observe crowded fish continuously for signs of infection. During several situations under hatchery conditions, where excess numbers of fish have suffocated one another in such instances. Mass mortality will occur during such situations. It is very much necessary to continuously monitor tagged fish that has been kept under increased density during rearing conditions [57].\r\nF). Anesthesia. Anaesthetics are required in aquaculture to decrease handling stress as well as mortality. Traditional anaesthetics such as tricaine methanesulphonate (MS-222), 2-phenoxyethanol and quinaldine, are expensive and are poisonous to fish. The ideal anaesthetic should have a short induction time (1–5 minutes) and a short recovery time (less than 5 minutes), as well as being inexpensive, simple to apply, easily soluble, and should not leave any residues in fish, humans, or the surrounding environment [15, 68]. The FDA has approved MS-222, also called tricaine methane sulfonate (MS-222), as an effective anaesthetic for fish as well as other cold-blooded animals. The most efficient chemical for anaesthetizing salmonids is neutralised MS-222 (pH 7), but at the time of increased concentration or the fish is sedated in the anaesthetic bath for a longer period, it can cause injury or death [69]. MS-222 can cause a state of hypoxia by decreasing the opercular movement to alter the flow of water across the gills, so it will reduce the exchange rate of oxygen between blood and the water. If fishes are kept under anesthetization for a longer period, they may experience hypoxic conditions, which can result in permanent brain damage or death [57].\r\ni. Concentration. To anaesthetize salmonids, a concentration of MS-222 of around 40 mg/l is indicated [61]. The concentration of anaesthetics will vary depending on the environmental conditions, the fish species, the size of the fish, and the level of stress. As the temperature increases, the metabolism of the fish will also increase, which means the absorption of anaesthetics occurs more quickly. As a result, fish require less MS-222 when the water temperature is warmer. Coldwater species are more susceptible to MS-222 than warm water species, requiring less MS-222 to anaesthetize them. The clove oil dosages vary from 2.0 -150 mg/L. Clove oil is an important anaesthetic for common carp Cyprinus carpio at 40-120 mg/L [17]. The sufficient dosage of clove oil to transport Oncorhynchus mykiss, is as low as 2–5 mg/L, whereas the sufficient dose for surgical an aestheticis from 40- 60 mg/L. The method fish react to the anaesthesia is also influenced by their level of stress. Fish under stress conditions will need a low concentration of anaesthesia to anaesthetize fish for tagging.\r\n ii. Stock Solution. It is necessary to prepare an anaesthetic stock solution to make anaesthetics proper soluble to drug the anaesthetic bath. Using this procedure, the proper anaesthetic concentration can be effectively used by the fish and the chance of overdosing on the anaesthetic bath can be reduced. The concentration of the stock solution can vary slightly depending on your preferences, but for MS-222, the concentration should be between 40 and 50 mg/l. The suggested concentration for MS-222 is roughly 40 mg/l, which needs about one millilitre of the stock solution for one litre of water in the anaesthetic bath. One thing to remember about MS-222 is that it is photosensitive and will decay if exposed to light, therefore you must store it in a light-proof container. You can use black electrician\'s tape to wrap a clear plastic container to prevent light penetration or use brown or black plastic containers [57].\r\niii. Anaesthetization. Initially, a low concentration of anaesthetic is used and anaesthetizes only a few numbers of fish. Keep an eye on their reaction to the anaesthesia to see if the dosage is correct. If necessary, you can easily apply additional anaesthesia. One to three minutes should be allowed for induction (the time taken for the fish to lose their equilibrium and stay on their sides). Significant operculum movement and slight fin movement should still be visible. As you work with the fish, keep an eye on them. If the opercular movement becomes weak or loses its balance, immediately remove the fish from the anaesthetic bath or keep the fish in freshwater. Death is imminent when the operculum stops moving. The fish will suffocate in minutes if there is no water circulation across the gills. Within five minutes of putting sedated fish in a recovery tank, the fish should start to regain balance and should maintain a normal swimming position. Reduce the concentration of anaesthetics in the anaesthetic bath if recovery time exceeds five minutes. The researcher suggests putting a suitable number of fish in the anaesthetic water at once so that tagging and collection of data can be finished within a few minutes of the fish being sedated using anaesthesia. In basic terms, while anaesthetizing the fish should not be kept for more than five minutes in the anaesthetic bath. Fish should not be permitted to be in an anaesthetic bath for a longer period under any circumstances [57].\r\nG). Fish Size. The size of fish plays an important role in tagging depending on species and rearing strategy. Juvenile fish are difficult to tag, and marking them will make them more vulnerable to predators and reduce their swimming endurance [46]. Furthermore, some studies have discovered that compared to large fish, fewer small fish are likely to be interrogated at dams [1]. The effective tag size for tagging huge fish is between 80-150 mm. The needle will easily puncture the body wall of this size fish, making it easy to handle. Small fish are difficult to grasp with one\'s hand, thus the insertion point may need to be changed forwards lightly to the posterior position of the pectoral fin. Hence it will provide the tag with a bit huge space in the peritoneal cavity. When working with small fish, extreme caution must be exercised to avoid hitting internal organs or intestines while tagging. Large fish with a size greater than 200 mm is hard to handle, especially with smaller hands. Huge fish are notoriously difficult to pierce with a tag injector. When the needle\'s point collides with a scale while tagging, the scale attaches to the injector, preventing it from penetrating the body. Take the needle out from the fish body in this circumstance, clear the scale from the injector tip, and then pierce the tag into the fish where the scale was removed from the body wall.\r\nH). Tag Size. PIT tag\'s effectiveness was limited in the small-bodied fish because of their size [5]. The popular 12-mm-long tag has been replaced by 9-8mm small tags, with 9mm tags being commercially accessible in 2004 and 8mm small tags in 2014. These smaller tags are allowed for tagging smaller fish but their read ranges are shorter, which could be difficult to detect tagged fish using remote antennas [5]. On the other hand, smaller tags have been used in field experiments for habitat usage with success [23]. Tagging juvenile fishes will help us to learn more about the ecology of a variety of fish species and their size ranges, including nongame and game species as well as concern for species conservation. Furthermore, the ability to tag small age groups of fishes would allow us to understand their site fidelity, habitat use and migrations [59]. \r\nI). Stressor. Procedures like tagging, handling, and capturing fish will generate physiological and behavioural responses in fish, and the tagged fish requires time and the proper maintenance for quick recovery. Some individuals may not be able to handle the stress of tagging, and others may find it difficult to wear the tag [67].\r\nJ). Fish Recovery and Release. Fish should be given at least a half-hour to recover in a cool, dark tank before being released back into the water source. When the tagged fish are released, they must have recovered completely from anaesthesia to escape from predators. If tagged fish are placed back into the pond ecosystem or other system, before they should have recovered from the anaesthesia in a proper hatchery condition, they may be preyed upon by their peers. During summer, some of the researchers will catch fish in the afternoon section, keep them overnight, tag them the next morning, and then release them back in the evening. This gives the tagged individuals a chance to escape from the stress of being captured or tagged before moving on to the stress phase [57].\r\nD. Importance of PIT Tagging \r\nExperiments in fisheries to determine the tool\'s usefulness in tracking fish movement and their behaviours led to the development of PIT tags in wild species in biology. PIT tags have been employed in research on reptiles [48], invertebrates [55], mammals [11] and amphibians [55]. A biological field study was applied to zoos and private collections [71] as well as the live-animal trade [29]. CITES (Convention on International Trade in Endangered Species of Wild Fauna and Flora) also utilises PIT tags to verify that an animal is captive-bred rather than wild-caught and to trace illegal animal harvest in international trade [71]. \r\nE. Effect of PIT Tagging on Movement, Behaviour, Growth and Survival\r\nPIT-tagged animals recaptured after earlier captures may provide useful information on growth rate and position changes. Recapturing previously tagged, particular individuals in an ecosystem is also a most important technique for examining an individual\'s mortality and lifespan in the wild. Individually tagged species can aid in the examining of age structure and sex ratios at the species level, as well as the data needed to build demographic characteristics of populations and other life tables of the species. By using time-sequenced observations of activity patterns at specific locations, researchers can investigate social networks and the behavioural interactions across species within the population [12]. PIT tags are widely used by researchers to estimate fish movement, growth, survival, mortality and exploitation studies of the tagged fish species, including the Gulf sturgeon Acipenser oxyrinchusdesotoi [12], Pacific lamprey Lampetra tridentate [49], Atlantic salmon Salmo salar [60] and brown trout Salmo trutta [18]. PIT tags are frequently employed due to their low cost, increased longevity, capacity to identify individual fish, simplicity of use, and minimal effect on survival and growth [72]. Movement behaviour, which is an important part of ecology, influences individuals\' spatial interactions between different species and their environmental surroundings [51]. Fish migrate to find mating, acquire resources (such as station maintenance and range), avoid excessive conspecific density, and avoid predators (such as dispersal). The ecological and evolutionary effects of individual migration include those on population demography, individual fitness and longevity, nutrient flow throughout an ecosystem, metapopulation dynamics, species abundance and distribution. Gene flow, speciation, and adaptation are impacted by movements like dispersal [33]. Individual, group movement and population studies are unique in that they can look at processes at several levels [21]. Many systems still don\'t understand movement, despite its importance in analysing evolutionary patterns and ecological processes. This is particularly true in the early years when a large number of taxa comprise the dispersing class [10]. Fish migration in the river ecosystem [72] as well as through fish ways has been tracked using PIT tags and stationary tracking systems [72]. They have been employed in the lab to test the effectiveness of various clupeid fish way designs and to evaluate the swimming capability of several species [34], including Centrarchidae and Cyprinidae [62]. Experiments with smaller tags found that 8mm tags on 640-mg (wet mass) Oreochromis niloticus and 40–49mmFL Oncorhynchus tshawytscha had slightly decreased growth rates for the first 4-7 days, but increased survival (93.3%-100%) and the retention of tag (95% at 28d; 96.6% at 35 d). As a result, data from individuals who have been harmed by tagging can lead to inaccurate conclusions about wild fish development, survival rates, and behaviour [66].\r\nF. Post Tagging Mortality\r\nThe degree to which fish are affected by tagging must be considered in trials using PIT tags because the act of tagging might be considered a physical stressor, a stimulus influencing hormone output, and a change in animal performance [20]. This is crucial in studies with smaller fish because PIT tagging has been associated with increased mortality rates in those species [25]. Using all available time points at which mortality was recorded, a random-effects logistic regression model was fitted to the cumulative mortality data [27]. Long-term risks could include tissue infections around the tagging site, which could be fatal [44]. The long-term health of the tagged animal may be directly affected by changes in growth, behaviour, immune system, and reproductive performance that are the result of tertiary stress reactions [70]. Survival and tag retention may be affected by how PIT tags are implanted in individual fish. Due to excessive needle entry into the body cavity, which results in haemorrhaging, researchers noticed significant early mortality in fish have given syringe injections [4]. On the other hand [5] employed a false injection (fish injected with a needle but not injected with a tag) and discovered that survival rates for Oregon Chub Oregonichthys crameri ranged from 93-100%. Last but not least, suturing tagging wounds improved tag retention, although survival was either the same or decreased compared to those who weren\'t sutured [7].\r\nOne of the components of tagging strategies that has received little attention is the tagger\'s or surgeon\'s experience with increased survival or tag retention [24]. Much research is required to determine the impact of tagging technology on wound closure in juvenile fishes because results have varied among species, sizes and studies. The impact of PIT tagging on salmonid survival has been studied in both the lab and the field [60]. Labeo rohita [45], Perca fluviatilis [7] and Oreochromis niloticus are just a few of the cultivated species that have been the subject of a laboratory study on the impact of tagging on non-salmonid fish survival [6, 45].\r\n \r\n\r\n','Dheeran P., Binu Varghese and Ajay Valiyaveettil Salimkumar (2022). Meta-analysis of PIT tagging effects on fish growth and mortality. International Journal of Theoretical & Applied Sciences, 14(1): 38-47(2022) '),(5115,'134','Heterosis for Green Pod Yield and Attributing Traits in Vegetable Pea \r\n[Pisum sativum (L.) var. hortense]\r\n','Vikash Singh*, C.N. Ram, G.C. Yadav and Navneet Singh','13 Heterosis for Green Pod Yield and Attributing Traits in Vegetable Pea [Pisum sativum _L._ var. hortense] Vikash Singh.pdf','',1,'The important factor that reduces vegetable pea production is the low-yielding potential of old varieties and the lack of stability for yield. The heterosis is widely utilized for the selection of superior cross combinations, this study was conducted to estimate the magnitude of heterosis for green pod yield and yield attributing characters. A diallel analysis (excluding reciprocal) was designed aiming towards the identification of the best heterotic crosses for green pod yield per plant and quality traits in vegetable pea. The present study was conducted at the Main Experimental Station, Department of Vegetable Science, Acharya Narendra Deva University of Agriculture and Technology, Narendra Nagar (Kumarganj), Ayodhya (U.P.), India, during Rabi, 2020-21 (Y1) and 2021–22 (Y2). Forty-five hybrids were developed through diallel mating design by using ten parental lines excluding reciprocals. Appreciable heterosis was found over better parent and standard variety for all the traits under study in desirable direction. For early maturity trait si.e., days to 50% flowering, days to first picking and node to first pod appearance negative heterosis is desirable, for this the cross combinations P5×P6,P6×P7 and P5×P10 exhibited the highest significant heterosis over better parent and standard variety. Crosses P5×P6, P5 × P7, P6 × P10 and P6×P7 may be exploited commercially after evaluation for profitable yield in vegetable pea. Significant heterobeltiosis and economic heterosis indicate the importance of heterosis breeding for developing high-yielding hybrids/varieties.','Biochemical, Diallel mating, economic heterosis,heterobeltiosis, protein, sugars','On the basis of heterosis analysis, among the cross combinations P5×P6, P5×P7 and P6×P7 exhibited significant negative heterosis over better parent as well as standard variety for days to 50% flowering and days to first picking. Three hybrids depicted significant and desirable (positive) heterosis over standard variety (Azad Pea-3) for total fruit yield per plant viz., P5×P6, P5×P7 and P6×P10. These hybrids also depicted significant and desirable (positive) heterosis over their respective better parent. The high heterotic response of these hybrids was resulted due to positive heterosis of yield attributing character number of pods per plant, number of seeds per pod and number of pods per 100 g. The heterotic effect for total fruit yield per plant can be considered as an outcome of the direct effect of these attributes and indirect effects of the other yield contributing characters i.e., pod length, pod girth, shelling percentage and 100 green seed weight. ','INTRODUCTION\r\nGarden pea [Pisum sativum (L.) var. hortense] is a member of the Leguminosae family. Near East and Ethiopia are regarded as secondary habitats, with the Mediterranean serving as the garden pea\'s primary source of origin (Blixt, 1970). It is prominent among leguminous vegetable crops due to its high nutritive value, particularly proteins and other health-building substances like carbohydrates vitamin A, vitamin C calcium and phosphorus. It is also rich in lysine, which is a limiting essential amino acid in cereals. It is grown commercially as a winter crop in the northern Indian plains and as a summer crop in the high hills. Green peas are eaten as a cooked vegetable and they are also used fresh, canned or frozen while ripe dried peas are used as a whole, split, or made into flour.\r\nIndia is second in the world for vegetable production behind China, and it contributes 10.80 million hectares and 196.26 million tonnes of vegetables to the world\'s production overall. Vegetable peas are grown on an average of 10.04 tonnes per hectare in India, where they cover 0.573 million hectares and produce 5.823 million tonnes (Anon., 2021). In India, it is grown extensively in Uttar Pradesh, Madhya Pradesh, Himachal Pradesh, Jharkhand, Punjab, Haryana, Rajasthan, Maharashtra, Bihar, and Karnataka, contributing to 67% of the total production. Uttar Pradesh is the highest vegetable pea-producing state in India. This crop is grown on 0.218 million hectares in Uttar Pradesh, producing 2.481 million tonnes and productivity is 11.360 tonnes per hectare (Anon., 2018).\r\nThe key element that lowers the output of vegetable peas is the probable poor yield of older varieties and the lack of yield stability. Hybridization is a crucial breeding strategy for overcoming yield limitations. Garden pea is a self-pollinated crop and recombinant breeding is the most appropriate approach for combining various desirable traits like long and lush green pods with high yield potential (Sood and Kalia, 2006). The estimates of heterosis may be utilized in determining the potential of parents for the production of transgressive segregants in segregating generations (Sharma and Bora 2013). The present experiment was undertaken to estimate the magnitude of heterosis for green pod yield and yield attributing characters in garden pea. The exploitation of heterosis/hybrid vigour in crop plants for significant enhancement in yield and other quantitative characteristics is a time-tested approach in crop improvement. The estimation of heterosis for yield and its attributing traits would be useful to judge the best hybrid combination for exploitation as superior hybrids.\r\nMATERIALS AND METHODS\r\nThe present investigation was undertaken to study the magnitude of heterosis for fruit yield and its components in vegetable pea. The present study was carried out at the Main Experiment Station, Department of Vegetable Science, Acharya Narendra Deva University of Agriculture and Technology, Narendra Nagar (Kumarganj), Ayodhya (U.P.), India, during Rabi, 2020-21 (Y1) and 2021–22 (Y2). The experimental materials comprised ten promising and diverse purelines and varieties of vegetable pea selected based on genetic variability from the different sources of germplasm stock maintained in the Department of Vegetable Science. The selected parental linesi.e.; Azad Pea-1 (P1), Azad Pea-2 (P2), Azad Pea-4 (P3), Kashi Samridhi (P4), Kashi Nandini (P5), Kashi Mukti (P6), Kashi Udai (P7), NDVP-2 (P8), NDVP-4 (P9) and Azad Pea-3 (P10) were crossed in all possible cross combinations, excluding reciprocals, during the year, 2019-20 to get 45 F1’s for the study of heterobeltiosis and economic heterosis. Azad Pea-3 was used as a standard variety for comparison of yield and attributing traits.\r\nThe experiments were conducted in a Randomized Complete Block Design (RBD) with three replications to assess the performance of 45 F1 hybrids and their 10 parental lines of vegetable pea. Observations were recorded for eighteen economic traits including biochemical traits, viz. days to 50% flowering, days to first picking, plant height (cm), node to first pod appearance, nodes per plant, pod length (cm), pod girth (cm), number of seeds per pod, number of pods per plant, shelling percentage (%), number of pods per 100g, 100 green seed weight (g), protein content (%), total soluble solids, reducing sugars (%), non-reducing sugar (%), total sugars (%) and green pod yield per plant (g). The magnitude of heterosis was studied using the information on various quantitative and quality traits. Heterosis expressed as per cent increase or decrease in the mean values of F1’s (hybrid) over better-parent (heterobeltiosis) and standard variety (standard heterosis) was calculated according to the suggested method. The formulas used for the estimation of heterosis are as follows:\r\n (a) Heterobeltiosis (%) \r\n(b) Standard heterosis (%) \r\nWhere, is the mean value of F1, is the mean value of better-parent and is the mean value of standard variety.\r\nThe significance of heterosis was tested by ‘t’ tests as given below:\r\n ‘t’ (Heterobeltiosis) = \r\n‘t’ (Standard heterosis) = \r\nSE of heterosis over better-parent and standard variety = \r\nWhere, Me is the error mean square, r is the number of replications, SE is the standard error of the treatments mean and (t) is the table value of (t) at 5% or 1% level of significance at error degree of freedom. The calculated ‘t’ value was compared with table value ‘t’ at error d.f. at 5% and 1% level of probability for testing the significance of heterosis.\r\nRESULTS AND DISCUSSION \r\nThe degree of heterosis is measured as the superiority of F1 hybrids over the better parent (heterobeltiosis) and standard variety. The possibility of exploitation of hybrid vigour depends on feasibility of hybrid seed production at commercial scale. Heterobeltiosis is an indicator of level of transgressive segregants as superiority of hybrids helps in the identification of promising cross combinations having potential to produce the highest level of transgressive segregants in conventional crop improvement programme. In the present study, heterosis is reported over better parent (heterobeltiosis) and standard variety over season pooled.\r\nFor the trait days to 50% flowering, heterosis in the negative direction is desirable as it imparts early flowering. Significantly negative heterosis over better parent and standard variety was observed in respect of days to 50% flowering. The maximum and significant negative heterosis over better parent (-16.67%) followed by (-15.81%) and standard variety (-22.00%) followed by (-21.20%) were observed in the cross P5×P6 and P5×P7. Out of 45 crosses, six crosses over better parent and six crosses over standard variety exhibited significant negative heterosis for days to 50 % flowering in over season (pooled). Early flowering in vegetable pea hybrids due to negative heterotic effect to a considerable amount has been reported earlier by Rebika (2017); Galal et al. (2019).\r\nThe crosses with negative significant heterosis were considered as desirable for the trait days to first picking. The maximum and significant negative heterosis (-13.85%) followed by (-13.64%) over better parent was observed in the cross P5×P6 and P6×P7. The crosses that proved better for this character over standard variety were P5×P6 (-20.38) followed by P5×P7 (-19.91) in over season (pooled). Out of 45 crosses, significant and negative heterosis was observed in six crosses over better parent as well as over standard in over season (pooled). Similar findings were also observed by Yadav et al. (2018); Kumar et al. (2019).\r\nFor plant height, the highest heterosis over better parent was recorded in the cross P5×P6 (16.04) followed by P6×P7 (14.01) and P5×P7 (13.15) while, maximum heterosis over standard variety was recorded in cross P2×P3 (78.24) followed by P2×P10 (73.59) and P2×P4 (71.72) in over season (pooled). Out of 45 crosses, significant and positive heterosis was observed in three crosses over better parent and thirty crosses over standard variety in over season (pooled). The results are in conformity with Sharma and Bora (2013), Bisht and Singh (2010).\r\nThe best crosses which exhibited highest heterotic effect over better parent for the character number of seeds per pod were P7×P10 (17.56) followed by P6×P10 (16.63) and P6×P7 (16.60). The crosses proved better for this character over standard variety were P7×P10 (17.78) followed by P6×P7 (16.83) and P6×P10 (16.63) in over season (pooled). Out of 45 crosses, significant and positive heterosis was observed in nine crosses over better parent as well as over standard variety in over season (pooled). The findings of Bisht and Singh (2010); Joshi et al. (2016) supported the above results.\r\nFor the character number of pods per plant (Table 1) the crosses that proved superior were P5×P6 (44.71) followed by P5×P7 (44.11) and P6×P7 (43.02) over better parent and P5×P7 (25.98) followed by P5×P6 (25.73) and P5×P10 (25.06) over standard variety showing significant magnitudes of heterotic effects in over season (pooled). Out of 45 crosses, significant and positive heterosis was observed in thirteen crosses over better parent and twenty crosses over standard variety in over season (pooled). The results are in conformity with Kumar et al. (2019); Joshi et al. (2016).\r\nThe best crosses which exhibited highest heterotic effect over better parent for the character 100 green seed weight were P6×P7 (17.54) followed by P5×P10 (17.42) and P7×P10 (17.26). The crosses proved better for the character over standard variety were P5×P10 (17.56) followed by P7×P10 (17.26) and P6×P10 (17.25) in over season (pooled). Out of 45 crosses, significant and positive heterosis was observed in six crosses over better parent as well as over standard variety in over season (pooled). Similar results were reported by Borah (2009); Amani (2021).\r\nFor protein content the crosses P7×P10 (14.52) recorded maximum heterosis over better parent followed by P5×P10 (12.48) and P6×P10 (11.65) while, over standard variety maximum heterosis were exhibited by the crosses P5×P10 (18.00) followed by P5×P6 (15.64) and P7×P10 (14.52) in over season (pooled). Out of 45 crosses, significant and positive heterosis was observed in six crosses over better parent and nine crosses over standard variety in over season (pooled). The findings of Yadav et al. (2015); Yadav et al. (2018) supported the above result.\r\nFor the trait green pod yield per plant, the cross P5×P7 (41.38) showed highest heterosis over better parent followed by P5×P6 (41.06) and P6×P7 (39.94) while, the cross P7×P10 (34.58) recorded maximum heterosis over standard variety followed by P6×P10 (34.57) and P5×P7 (29.67) in over season (pooled). Out of 45 crosses, significant and positive heterosis was observed in twenty-six crosses over better parent and ten crosses over standard variety in over season (pooled). The findings are in accordance with that of Kumari and Sharma (2019); Kumar et al. (2019).\r\n','Vikash Singh, C.N. Ram, G.C. Yadav and Navneet Singh (2022). Heterosis for Green Pod Yield and Attributing Traits in Vegetable Pea [Pisum sativum (L.) var. hortense]. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 14(2a): 76-83.'),(5116,'134','Effect of Nitrogen, Phosphorus and Potassium Fertilization on Yield and Quality of Custard Apple (Annonas squamosa L.) Cv. Balanagar','Priya*, B. Kurubar, A.R. Ashok, H. Ramesh, G. Udaykumar, N. Umesh M.R. and Rajkumar R.H.','14 Effect of Nitrogen, Phosphorus and Potassium Fertilization on Yield and Quality of Custard Apple _Annonas squamosa L._ Cv. Balanagar Priya.pdf','',1,'Custard apple (Annona squamosa L.) can tapa considerable volume of soil with its extensive root system under natural habitat. However, the natural fertility of soils is rarely sufficient to give economic yields. The area under custard apple is increasing in India on commercial scale. However, fully grown-up plants of this cultivar show variability in fruit yield with small sized fruits which fetch poor market price. Improving the marketable yield of good quality fruits has always been a challenge for growers. A study was undertaken during 2019-2020 and 2020-21at the Horticulture Garden, Department of Horticulture, College of Agriculture, Raichur, Karnataka to find out the effect of N, P and K application on yield and quality of custard apple Cv. Balanagar. The experiment consisted of 5 treatments comprising T1 (control), T275% RDF (188:94:94 g/plant), T3-100% RDF (250: 125:125 g plant-1), T4-125% RDF (313:157:157 g/plant) and T5-150% RDF (388:187:187 g plant-1). The results revealed that increasing levels of N, P and K (388:187:187 g plant-1) (T5) significantly increased yield and quality of custard apple. However, minimum days from flowering to fruit set (12.61 days), maximum percent of fruit set (39.18 %), fruit weight (162.79 g), number of fruits per branch (12.22),pulp weight (62.54 g), peel weight (62.98 g)pulp to seed ratio (3.61),fruits per plant (55.07) and fruit yield (4.90 t ha-1), ascorbic acid (27.04 mg/100g pulp), titrable acidity (0.375 %), Total soluble solids (26.61°B), TSS/acid ratio (66.21), Non reducing sugars (3 %) Reducing sugars (15.34 %) were observed in 150% RDF (388:187:187 g/plant) (T5) as compare to control (T1).','Custard apple, fertilizers, yield, quality','This investigation clearly indicated that application of application of 150% RDF (388:187:187 g/plant) (T5) treatment had beneficial effect on increasing yield and quality attributes of custard apple Cv. Balanagar.','INTRODUCTION\r\nThe edible fruits of genus Annona are collectively known as annonaceous fruits. Annonaceae family consists of 40 genera and genus Annona has 120 species. Annonas are very delicious, tropical fruit crop. Among them, custard apple (Annona squamosa L.) is considered the best. It has got pleasant flavour, mild aroma and sweet taste have a universal acceptance. Custard apple is also known as sugar apple, sweetsop, sharifa, sitaphal and noi-na in different parts of growing regions. Fruits are good source of sugar (20%), iron, calcium, phosphorus and ascorbic acid. Custard apple is one of important minor fruit crops grown in India. It can tap a considerable volume of soil with an extensive root system under natural habitat. However, the fertile soil is hardly sufficient to give economic yields. In sand culture grown custard apple saplings nitrogen deficiency was characterized by restricted growth of plants with pale green to yellowish leaves. Phosphorus deficiency leads to growth reduction, appearance of brown necrotic bands at the tips and margin of leaves, while potassium deficiency produces marginal scorching of leaves (Sadhu and Ghosh 1976). Mandal and Chattopadhyay (1993) reported application of fertilizers at 240 g N, 240 g P and 240 g K per plant per year produced quality fruits in custard apple. The area under custard apple is increasing in India on commercial scale. However, fully grown-up plants of this cultivar show variability in fruit yield with small sized fruits which fetch poor market price. Improving the marketable yield of good quality fruits has always been a challenge for growers. Balanced nutrition of plants along with good cultural practices can help in improving quality fruit with high yields. Nitrogen is one of the most important elements for high productivity and growth of fruit plants Titus and Kang (1982) and also promotes fruit and seed development Marschner (1995). Phosphorus is used by plants to help form new roots, make seeds, fruit and flowers. It’s also used by plants to help fight disease. Similarly, potassium is considered as a quality improving element in fruit crops. Imbalanced use of nutrients or widespread use of N fertilizers alone leads to poor quality of fruits Ganeshamurthy et al. (2011). High rates of N can be utilized by plant only in the presence of required K levels. Similarly, potassium (K) is the most abundant nutrient in the fruit, where it influences the size, firmness, skin color, TSS and acidity Brunetto et al. (2015). However, little information is available on the effect of combined application of nitrogen, phosphorous and potassium fertilizers on yield and quality in custard apple. Keeping in view the above, the present experiment was designed to study the effect of different combined doses of N, P and K fertilizers on fruit yield and quality of Balanagar variety of custard apple plants.\r\nMATERIAL AND METHODS\r\nThe present research was carried out at the Horticulture Garden, Department of Horticulture, College of Agriculture, Raichur, Karnataka, during 2019-20 and 2020-21. The study was conducted on uniform 5 year old custard apple cv. Balanagar at a spacing of 4.5 × 4.5 m (494 plant ha-1). The experiment was carried out in Randomized Block Design (RBD) and all the treatments were replicated four times and 2 plants were kept in each treatment. Plants were applied with different combined doses of NPK including of 5 treatments namely T1 (control), T2- 75% RDF (188:94:94 g plant-1), T3-100% RDF (250: 125:125 g plant-1), T4-125% RDF (313:157:157 g plant-1) and T5-150% RDF (388:187:187 g plant-1). The soil of the experimental field was clay loamy with a pH of 7.0-7.3. Nitrogen was applied through urea, phosphorus in the form di ammonium phosphate, and potassium in the form of murate of potash. The treatments were imposed during June with the onset of monsoon. Observations were recorded on two plants in each replication on days to fruit set, percent of fruit set, average fruit weight, number of fruits per branch, pulp weight, peel weight, pulp to seed ratio, fruits per plant, yield, ascorbic acid, titrable acidity, total soluble solids, TSS/acid ratio, non-reducing sugars, reducing sugars. Pooled mean data of two years was taken for statistical analysis in accordance to Panse and Sukhatme (1985).\r\nRESULTS AND DISCUSSION\r\nYield attributing parameters. Pooled data over two years indicates that yield parameters were significantly influenced by different levels of fertilizers (Table 1 and 2). \r\nSignificantly minimum days to fruit set (12.61 days), maximum percent of fruit set (39.18 %), fruit weight (162.79 g), fruits per branch (12.22), pulp weight (62.54 g), peel weight (62.98 g), pulp to seed ratio (3.61) number of fruits per plant (55.07), and fruit yield (4.90 t ha-1), were recorded with the application of 388:187:187 g NPK plant-1 (T5) which was on par with application of 313:157:157 g NPK plant-1 (T4), which registered lesser days to fruit set (12.81), percent of fruit set (37.92%), average fruit weight (160.48 g), number of fruits per branch (11.85), pulp weight (60.89 g), peel weight (61.17 g), pulp to seed ratio (3.41) number of fruits per plant (52.62), and fruit yield (4.72 t ha-1). However, lesser yield attributes viz., percent of fruit set (32.99 %), fruit weight (148.26 g), number of fruits per branch (10.29), pulp weight (55.68 g), peel weight (55.17 g), pulp to seed ratio (3.04) number of fruits per plant (46.37), and fruit yield (3.30 t ha-1), were recorded in absolute control (T1). \r\nThe fewer days taken for flowering to fruit set might be due to higher application of NPK which helped in synthesis and deposition of photo-assimilates. This might have led to better growth, fruit bud differentiation (FBD) and increased flower production. Agrawal et al. (2010); Yadav et al. (2011) supported the findings of the present study. Similar trend it was also reported in other fruit crops like guava by Dikshit et al. (2010); Archana (2019). The highest fruit set was observed in increased application of fertilizers leads to more available nutrient in soil it increased uptake of nutrients which resulted in enhanced synthesis of hormones like auxins and gibberellins. Water applied through drip irrigation nearer to the root zone always maintains soil moisture in field capacity range and no moisture stress occurred during the flowering and fruit development stage and thereby the fruit drop was minimized. This might have resulted in higher per cent of fruit set. Similar results were also made by Singh et al. (2006) in mango and Krishnamoorthy (2012) in cocoa and also these results are in accordance with Ramniwas et al. (2012) who reported that it might be due to higher availability of nutrients during the plant growth stages. It might have improved the fruit set. Similar results were also reported by Kumar et al. (2017) in banana, Nadkarni et al. (2018) in pomegranate and Al-Dosary et al. (2022) in pomegranate. Number of fruits per branch and plant was found maximum with the application of higher level of N P K with FYM. This may be due to the increased synthesis of metabolites due to higher nutrient levels and their translocation to the fruits. Water given by drip irrigation maintains moisture content in soil and reduces fruit drop and increases the fruit set there by increasing the no of fruits per branches and plant. These results are also in accordance with the findings of Shirgure et al. (2001) in pomegranate, Mahalakshmi et al. (2001) in guava, Thakur and Singh (2004) in guava, and Suresh et al. (2011) in custard apple, Raut et al. (2020) in custard apple. Application of 313:157:157 g NPK plant-1 significantly increased weight of pulp and peel weight. This might be ascribed to the increased synthesis of metabolites and more uptakes of nutrients, and their translocation to the fruits there by increased the peel and pulp weight by increased the fruit weight. These results are in accordance with Thakur and Singh (2004). Kumar et al. (2017) in custard apple reported that proper supply and translocation of nutrients throughout the growth stage increased peel and pulp weight.\r\nApplication of 388:187:187 g of NPK per plant which is higher application of fertilizer resulted in increased yield per hectare. This might be due to increased photosynthesis, better plant growth and dry matter accumulation in addition to increase in number of flowers, fruit retention capacity, fruit size, fruit volume and fruit weight. The increase in number of fruits might be attributed to the fact that there was increasing level of nutrients in assimilating area of crop due to rational partitioning of dry matter to economic sink the yield attributes were increase the above result are inconformity with findings of Dalal et al. (2011) who reported maximum number of fruit per plant by integrated application of nutrients in sapota. Mandal and Chattopadhyay (1993) reported maximum yields due to increasing doses of fertilizers due to vigorous vegetative growth, development and reproduction in custard apple. Results are in accordance with Dhillon et al. (2015) in pomegranate, Kumar et al. (2017) in banana, Nadakarni et al. (2018) in Pomegranate and Raut et al. (2020) in custard apple.\r\nQuality attributing parameters. The observations on quality parameters were recorded for two years and presented in Table 3 and 4.\r\nSignificantly highest ascorbic acid (27.04 mg/100g pulp), minimum titrable acidity (0.375 %), Total soluble solids (26.61°B), TSS/acid ratio (66.21), Non reducing sugars (3 %) Reducing sugars (15.34 %) were recorded with the application of 388:187:187 g NPK plant-1 (T5) which was statistically at par with application of 313:157:157 g NPK plant-1 (T4), which registered a ascorbic acid of 25.81 mg/100g pulp, minimum titrable acidity 0.382 %, Total soluble solids 25.12°B, TSS/acid ratio 63.18, Non reducing sugars 2.85 %, Reducing sugars of 14.84 %. However, ascorbic acid (22.77 mg/100g pulp), lesser titrable acidity (0.423 %), Total soluble solids (22.40°B), TSS/acid ratio (55.75), Non reducing sugars (2.53 %) Reducing sugars (12.92 %). The quality attributing characters were significantly influenced by either application of 388:187:187 g NPK plant-1 (T5) and application of 313:157:157 g NPK plant-1 (T4) over the control (T1).\r\nThe higher ascorbic acid was noticed with higher application of fertilizers. These results are in confirmation with Sheikh and Manjula (2009) who also recorded highest physico chemical fruit characters along with ascorbic acid content with higher doses of nitrogen along with recommended dose of phosphorus and potash with split doses in pomegranate. Boora and Singh (2012) in their findings analyzed that ascorbic acid increased significantly with the application of higher levels of nitrogen in Sapota cv. Cricket Ball. Higher ascorbic acid with the higher levels of nitrogen might be attributed to increase in synthesis and catalytic activity of several enzymes and co- enzymes which are instrumental in ascorbic acid synthesis. An increased trend of TSS was observed in custard apple fruits with graded levels of NPK. This increased level of TSS might be due to metabolic process of the plant like accumulation of sugar and other soluble components from hydrolysis of protein and oxidation of ascorbic acid. This was reported earlier by Suresh et al. (2011); Raut et al. (2020) in custard apple. Increased level of potassium application results in reduced acid content of fruits. This could be due to the fact that under low potassium level, phosphoenol pyruvate (PEP) was apparently shunted into alternate pathways resulting in shortage of acetyl Co-A Sohnika et al. (2017) in mango. Hence, oxaloacetate appeared to be preferentially formed from PEP in plants with low levels of K and accumulation of these organic acid derivatives. Neutralization of organic acid due to high K level in tissues could have also resulted in reduction in acidity Suresh et al. (2011) in custard apple and Kumar et al. (2017) in banana. The sugar acid ratio showed with the maximum value in treatment application of 388:187:187 g NPK plant-1 (T5). As the fruit maturity approaches in custard apple acidity decreases in proportion to TSS, which gives a fruit excellent sugar acid blend and is one of the most desirable characters of excellent fruit quality. These findings are in accordance with Singh et al. (2006) who found TSS to increase and titrable acidity to decrease with higher doses of N in pomegranate cv. Ganesh. Prasad and Mali (2000) found that total sugars, reducing sugars and non-reducing sugars were highest at optimum level of N in pomegranate cv. Jalore Seedless. Singh (2013) also recorded sugar content to increase with N level. Fatma et al. (2018) also recorded the same phenomenon and suggested that application of N significantly enhanced fruit quality. More reducing sugar in the treatments might be due to higher applications of N as it plays an important role in transformation of organic acids to sugars.\r\n\r\n','Priya, B. Kurubar, A.R. Ashok, H. Ramesh, G. Udaykumar, N. Umesh M.R. and Rajkumar R.H. (2022). Effect of Nitrogen, Phosphorus and Potassium Fertilization on Yield and Quality of Custard Apple (Annonas squamosa L.) Cv. Balanagar. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 14(2a): 84-88.'),(5117,'134','Impact of Integrated Vermicompost and Chemical Fertilizer Use on Productivity, Nutrient uptake and Economics of Rice','S.R. Pradhan, Subhaprada Dash, Md. R. Chowdhury*, S. P. Das, K. Sar and S. Moharana','15 Impact of Integrated Vermicompost and Chemical Fertilizer Use on Productivity, Nutrient uptake and Economics of Rice MD. R. CHOWDHURY.pdf','',1,'Restoration of soil fertility and improvement of rice yield in terms of quantity and quality can only be achieved through integrated use of chemical fertilizers along with organic manures. A field experiment was carried out to study the integration of chemical fertilizers with vermicompost on growth, productivity, quality, nutrient uptake, and economics of rice during kharif 2019. The experiment was laid out in randomized block design with 10 treatments replicated three times. The treatments include; control, RDF and integration of RDF with vermicompost at varying doses and varied application time. The treatment received 100% RDF + vermicompost 2.5 t ha-1 in two split doses resulted in better crop growth viz. plant height, dry biomass, as well as yield attributes viz. effective tillers m-2, grains panicle-1, grain and straw yield of rice, it is followed by 100% RDF + vermicompost 2.5 t ha-1 applied in one dose. The highest grain yield of rice was recorded (4.23 t ha-1) in T3 vermicompost, which significantly at par with 100% RDF + vermicompost2.5 t ha-1 as basal dose (4.17 t ha-1). ','Fertilizer, Nutrient uptake, Rice, Soil fertility, Vermicompost','Thus, integrating recommended fertilizer dose i.e. 60 kg N, 30 Kg P2O5 & K2O per ha with the application of 2.5 t of vermicompost in two equal splits at basal (50%) and top dressing (50%) appeared to be promising in terms of soil fertility built-up, higher productivity and profitability in rice during kharif season.','INTRODUCTION\r\nFertilizers are the major source of nutrients for rice under intensive cultivation. However, continuous and extensive use mainly attributed to macronutrient imbalance, micro-nutrients deficiency and fertilizer related environmental pollution (Biswas et al., 2019; Kumar et al., 2018). Further, the produce of chemical farming are poor in quality that affects the market acceptability. Under such situation, the restoration of soil fertility and improvement in rice yield and its quality could only be achieved through integrated use of chemical fertilizers in combination with organic manures (Chowdhury et al., 2015). Application of organics like farm yard manure, poultry manure, vermicompost, bio-fertilizers, and recycling of crop residues play a vital role in nutrients cycling, improves physical, chemical and biological properties of soil (Patel et al., 2015).\r\nVermicompost is a nutrient-rich, microbiologically-active organic amendment that result from the interactions between earthworms and microorganisms during the breakdown of organic matter (Lazcano and Dominguez 2011). It is a stabilized, finely divided hums-like material with low C: N ratio, high porosity and high water holding capacity, in which most nutrients are present in forms that are readily taken up by plants (Dominguez, 2004). Apart from supply of macro and micro-nutrients, vermicompost is also enriched with vitamins, enzymes, antibodies and growth hormones. Unlike compost, vermicompost exhibit different physical and chemical characteristics that affect soil properties and plant growth in diverse ways. Compared with raw manure materials and its traditional compost, vermicompost possesses a greater capacity for cation exchange and a larger surface area (Meier et al., 2017). Hence, now a day’s vermicompost is gaining importance as a source of manure in commercial cultivation of rice as well as other crops. The mineralization of organic nitrogen (N) in vermicompost is a key process in determining the effectiveness of N nutrition for rice. In integrated nutrient management system, synchronizing the mineralization of N from vermicompost with periods of maximum N demand for a determinate crop like rice is a critical challenge. This synchrony could only be attained by split application of vermicompost in combination with synthetic N fertilizers at different critical growth stages of rice (Peng et al., 2010). Thus, proper understanding of both N dynamics in soil and its uptake by crops is necessary to improve nitrogen use efficiency (Gastal and Lemaire 2002).\r\nMATERIALS AND METHODS\r\nThe experiment was carried out during kharif 2019 at the Agricultural Research Station, Binjhagiri, Chhatabar, Faculty of Agricultural Sciences (IAS), Siksha ‘O’ Anusandhan Deemed to be University, Bhubaneswar, Odisha (20°15′N latitude and 85°40′E longitude and at an altitude of 58.0 m above mean sea level). The soil of the experiment was clay loam in texture, low in organic carbon (0.47 %), available N (210.64 kg/ha) and K2O (133.25 kg/ha), but medium in available P2O5 (21.64 kg/ha). The experiment was laid out in randomised block design with 10 nutrient management treatments in three replications. The treatments are T1-Control, T2- 100% RDF, T3-100% RDF + basal application of vermicompost 2.5 t ha-1, T4-100% RDF + vermicompost2.5 t ha-1 (50% basal + 50% top dressing), T5-100% RDF + vermicompost 2.0 t ha-1 as basal, T6- 100% RDF + VC 2.0 t ha-1 (50% basal + 50% topdressing), T7-100% RDF + vermicompost 1.5 t ha-1 as basal, T8- 100% RDF + VC 1.5 t ha-1 (50% basal + 50% topdressing), T9- 100% RDF + vermicompost 1.0 t ha-1 as basal, T10- 100% RDF + VC 1.0 t ha-1 (50% basal + 50% topdressing). The rice variety used was Shabhagidhan. Twenty five days old seedlings were uprooted and transplanted in rows at spacing of 20 cm x 10 cm in the main field. As, basal dose of 25 % N (15 kg N ha-1), full dose of phosphorus (30 kg P2O5 ha-1) and potassium (30 kg K20 ha-1) were applied through urea, single super phosphate and muriate of potash, respectively and incorporated properly into the top layer up to a depth of 15cm. The remaining quantity of nitrogen was applied as 50% N was top-dressed in two splits at 21 DAT & 40 DAT. The vermicompost was weighed and it was broadcasted evenly to the treatments according to the requirement (basal and top dressing). The total nutrient content of the vermicompost used was; N-1.28%, P2O5-0.85% and K2O- 1.08%. Two hand weeding were applied before 1st and 2nd top dressing. \r\nThe observations on crop growth parameters (plant height and dry matter accumulation) were recorded at various growth stages. The yield attributes (number of effective tillers m-2 and number of grains panicle-1) and yield (grain and straw yield) were taken during the harvesting. The nutrient uptake was calculated by multiplying the nutrient content of seed and stover with respective yields. The economics of various treatments was worked out taking into account the existing market price of various production factors and produce during the experimental period. The results pertaining to analysis of soil and plant samples, rice yield and uptake values were subjected to analysis of variance (ANOVA) and correlation statistics as suggested by Gomez and Gomez (1984). The nutrient balance of soil was determined by using the formula as proposed by Raghuwanshi et al. (1991):\r\nB = Y – (X – A) – N\r\nWhere, B = Balance sheet of nutrient\r\nY = Uptake of nutrient by crop\r\nX = Initial nutrient status of the soil\r\nA = Final nutrient status of the soil\r\nN = Nutrient added through fertilizer and manure.\r\nRice grain qualities like hulling, milling and head rice recovery were determined with Mc Gill Miller No. 3, where whole or a part of the brown layer was removed from the brown rice to produce milled or polished rice. The broken grains of milled rice were then separated from unbroken rice and the weight of head rice was recorded. Hulling, milling and head rice recovery were calculated by following formulae as suggested by Khush et al. (1979):\r\n \r\n \r\n \r\nRESULTS AND DISCUSSION\r\n\r\nThe tallest rice plants with an average height of 94.27 cm were observed in the treatment T4(100% RDF + vermicompost (vermicompost) 2.5 t ha-1 (50% basal + 50% top dressing). It was noticed that the treatments received vermicompost as basal and top dressing responded well and provided better results than those receives vermicompost in single dose (Table 1). This may be due to the fact that application of split doses of nutrient via fertilizers and vermicompost gives a better environment to the plants, so that plant can utilize the applied nutrient more efficiently from the soil. It is also fact that the losses of nutrients are less when it is applied in splits.A plant height of 71.97 cm was recorded with RDF i.e. 60 kg N, 30 kg P2O5 and K2O kg ha-1 (Table 1). The shortest plants with a height of 48.40 cm was recorded in the control. Similar result was found by Pradhan (2019). At harvest, maximum dry matter of 722.84 g m-2 was recorded in the treatment T4 and it was at par treatment T3 (100% RDF + VC 2.5 t ha-1 as basal) showing a dry weight of 708.67 g m-2. The treatments received RDF + 2.0 t of vermicompost ha-1 at either full as basal or 50% basal and rest 50% in TD stood next with the values of 699.03 g m-2 and 686.27 g m-2, respectively (Table 1). In treatment T2 i.e. RDF, produced a dry matter of 594.83 g m-2 whereas, the lowest dry matter (380.67 g m-2) was observed under the control. Optimistic transformation in dry matter accumulation was due to alteration in NPK levels may be attributed to increase in the amount and efficiency of chlorophyll, which might have prejudiced the photosynthetic efficiency and construction of additional nitrogenous compounds viz. amino-acids, proteins, alkaloids and protoplasm resulting in upsurge in plant height and contributed towards increased dry matter accumulation. These findings are long-established by the result of Pradhan (2019); Chowdhury (2015).\r\nThe number of panicles m-2 varied significantly with the variation in treatments (Table 1). The more number of panicles (213 m-2) was recorded under 100% RDF + VC 2.5 t ha-1 (1:1 as basal & top dress) which was significantly superior to all the nutrient management practices (Table 1). Treatment T3 and T6 followed next with values of 202.0 and 192.0 respectively. The next higher values were recorded with T5 (190) followed by T8 (189), T7 (184), T10 (180) and T9 (176) respectively. Under RDF the value was 154 and under control it was the least i.e. 108. Likewise, the number of grains panicle-1 varied significantly under different treatment combinations. The superior value was 204 in the treatment T4 (RDF + 2.5 t of vermicompost ha-1 50% at basal and 50% at TD). The treatment T3 and T6 showed net higher values. Under RDF 139 grains panicle-1 and under control 112 grains panicle-1 were counted respectively (Table 1).\r\nGrain and straw yield varied significantly with different nutritional management treatments. The highest grain yield of 4.23 t ha-1 was recorded in the treatment received RDF + 2.5 t of vermicompost ha-1 (50% as basal + 50% at TD). This is at par with T3 with a yield of 4.17 t ha-1 (Table 1). Under the treatment, T6 and T5 the next higher yield of 3.97 t ha-1 and 3.91 t ha-1 were recorded respectively where two t of vermicompost were applied either basal or as basal + top dressing in addition to RDF. The grain yield under RDF is 3.21 t ha-1 while the lowest yield of 2.15 t ha-1 was recorded in control. The highest straw yield of 5.65 t ha-1 was recorded in the treatment T4 that was at par with treatment T3 producing 5.59 t ha-1 (Table 1). \r\nIn treatment T6 the straw yield was 5.40 t ha-1 followed by in treatment T5 recorded a straw yield of 5.32 t ha-1. In the treatment T2 i.e. RDF the yield was 4.30 t ha-1 and the least were found under T1 treatment (2.94 t ha-1). Similar result were also conveyed by Kundu (2012); Chowdhury (2015); Pradhan (2019) who stated that the integration of different sources of plant nutrients (e.g. FYM, vermicompost, crop residues etc.) has a satisfactory role on all the yield attributes vis-à-vis yield of rice grown either as a single sole crop or as a component crop of a cropping sequence of three or four crops. This may be due to the fact a little bit substitution of chemical fertilizers through organic manures has been proved to be a better choice. Because such type of combined use usually keeps the physical condition of soil better besides providing nutrients to the plant progressively but in a steady manner along with the added advantage of rapid, bounty and easy nutrient supplying capacity of chemical fertilizer to the crops and ultimately results in yield escalation.\r\nNitrogen uptake by grain and straw differed significantly with variation in nutrient management treatments. The highest N uptake by grain and straw was observed under 100% RDF + vermicompost 2.5 t ha-1 (1:1 as basal: top dress) (49.24 and 37.71 kg ha-1) followed by 100% RDF + 2.5 t ha-1 as basal (48.29 and 36.24 kg ha-1), respectively, both of which were at par (Table 2). With the treatment RDF the N uptake were 33.89 kg ha-1 and 21.92 kg ha-1 respectively for grain and straw. Application of 100% RDF alone resulted in the N uptake of 33.89 and 21.92 kg ha-1 by grain and straw, respectively, where the grain and straw N uptake was 31.2 and 15.3% lesser than the best performing nutrient management practice. The total N uptake followed the same trend of grain and straw uptake. The highest uptake of 86.95 kg ha-1 was recorded in the treatment which received, RDF +2.5 t of vermicompost ha-1 50% at basal and 50% at topdressing (Table 2). It was at par with T3. A total uptake of 55.81 kg ha-1 was recorded in RDF while the least total N uptake of 35.09 kg ha-1 was calculated in the treatment T1. The highest P uptake of 22.03 kg ha-1 and 16.62 kg ha-1 were calculated with the treatment T4 for grain and straw respectively, it was found at par with T3 (Table 2). The value was 13.46 kg ha-1 and 9.45 kg ha-1 for grain and straw respectively in RDF. The lowest P uptake of 8.25 kg ha-1 and 6.08 kg ha-1 was found in T1 control. A total uptake P uptake of 38.65 kg ha-1 was observed in T4. It was closely followed by T3 showing a value of 36.58 kg ha-1 (Table 2). Likewise, N and P uptake, K uptake by grain and straw followed the same trend of K uptake by the same. The highest K uptake by grain and straw was 16.52 kg ha-1 and 77.78 kg ha-1calculated in the treatment T4 respectively (Table 2). It was found at par with the treatment received RDF + 2.5 t of VC ha-1 at basal, where the uptake values were 15.59 kg ha-1 and 76.10 kg ha-1 respectively for grain and straw.\r\nThe highest total K uptake of 94.30 kg ha-1 was calculated in the treatment T4 that receives 100% RDF + 2.5 t of vermicompost in two split doses. In RDF (60 kg N, 30 kg P2O5 and K2O kg ha-1) the uptake by grain and straw was 10.40 and 51.84 kg ha-1 while total K uptake was 62.24 kg ha-1 (Table 2). The least uptake of 6.62 kg ha-1, 31.30 kg ha-1 and 37.93 kg ha-1 was found for grain, straw and total respectively in treatment T1 respectively. Similar types of results were reported by Acharya (2007); Kundu (2012). \r\nThe initial N status was 210.64 kg ha-1 which was low in status. The N status after harvest of rice changes due to applied N as per different treatments and uptake by the crop. The N status was further decreasing in control after harvest of rice as the treatment did not receive any nutrient. It has been noticed that with addition of vermicompost of varying dose increased the soil N status than initial value after harvest of the crop. The N status also increased in the treatment received RDF \r\nthrough fertilizer. The highest N status was calculated with the treatment T4 with a + 28.44 kg ha-1 than the initial (Table 3). It was closely followed by T3 and T6 where the values were +24.55 kg ha-1 and +22.89 kgha-1 respectively. With decrease in the dose of vermicompost the range of +ve value of N after harvest decreased. It has been observed that the treatment received vermicompost in split doses further shows a +ve value than the same dose of vermicompost, where it was applied full as basal. Likewise, nitrogen, phosphorous status in soil also showed a +ve status after harvest of rice except control. In the treatment control the value was 16.69 kg ha-1 whereas the highest value (30.12 kg ha-1) was at treatment T4, in RDF it was 22.59 kg ha-1 (Table 3). The intent of increase was also highest with the treatment T4 with a value of +8.48 kg ha-1, while in control it was -4.95 kg ha-1. With RDF the increment was +0.95 kg ha-1. The initial value was 21.64 kg ha-1. Soil potassium status was also showing +ve status after harvest of rice. Initially the potassium value was 133.25 kg ha-1, which changes to 125.16 kg ha-1, 134.35 kg ha-1 and 154.52 kg ha-1 in control, RDF and T4 treatments respectively (Table 3). The +ve extent was highest in treatment T4 +21.27 kg ha-1 whereas at RDF it was +1.10 kg ha-1 in control it was -8.09 kg ha-1.\r\nDifferent nutritional management has a positive impact on post-harvest quality of rice grain (table 4). Hulling percentage varies from 75.3% in T4 to 61.1% in T1 (control); while the milling varies from 67.3% to 56.2% in the same treatments and the HRR values also shows the similar trend with the highest (65.4%) in T4 and the lowest in 53.8% in control. The highest values of 75.3% of hulling, 68.4% milling with 65.4% HRR were obtained in the treatment T4. So it is clearly been observed that application of different doses of vermicompost have better impact on post-harvest quality of rice grain. It is also observed that the split application of vermicompost have better influence over single application of vermicompost under different doses. Vermicompost is a rich blend of major and minor plant nutrients. A number of plant growth promoters are observed in earthworm casts and presence of earthworms help in aerating the soil. \r\n\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\nIt provide nutrients to the crop bit by bit but in a steady manner along with the added benefit of quick, amply and tranquil nutrient supplying capacity along with chemical fertilizer to the crops in integrated nutrient management Chowdhury et al. (2015). All these activities achieved by the heretofore-mentioned organic manures result in increased production of good quality product Acharya and Mondal (2007). Similar results were also reported by \r\nThe difference in cost of cultivation in this present study was due to the dissimilarity in different levels of nutrient under diverse treatments. The gross return of this experiment differs as per its yield and the market price. Here the highest gross return of ` 82428/- in the treatment T4- RDF + 2.5 t of VC ha-1 50% at basal and 50% at TD. The next higher value of gross return of ` 81279/- was found with treatment T3 which received RDF + 2.5 t of VC ha-1 at basal. The lowest gross return of ` 41967/- was calculated in the control treatment. Similarly, as there was a variation in treatments there cost of cultivation also differed. The cost of cultivation varied from ` 38864/- in control to ` 53140/- in treatment T4- RDF + 2.5 t of VC ha-1 50% at basal and 50% at TD (Table 4). \r\nThe return rupee-1 invested for all the treatments were calculated. The variation in these values clearly stated that there was positive effect of applying vermicompost in addition to RDF. At the treatment RDF the return rupee-1 invested is 1.37, whereas the treatments received additional vermicompost of varying doses in addition to RDF showed return rupee-1 invested ranged in between 1.50 to 1.55. The highest return rupee-1 invested of 1.55 were worked out in treatment T4 (RDF+2.5 t of VC ha-1 50% at basal and 50% at TD) and T3 (RDF+2.5 t of VC ha-1 at basal) respectively which received 2.5 t of vermicompost in addition to RDF (Fig. 1). Though there was a significant variation observed in their grain yield but as the labour requirement was more in T4 than T3 which compensate the gap and helped to achieve the same return rupee-1 invested of 1.55 (Table 4). This statement was in conformation with the work conducted by Chowdhury (2015); Pradhan (2019). The return rupee-1 invested was worked out 1.01 in control.\r\n','S.R. Pradhan, Subhaprada Dash, Md. R. Chowdhury, S. P. Das, K. Sar and S. Moharana (2022). Impact of Integrated Vermicompost and Chemical Fertilizer Use on Productivity, Nutrient uptake and Economics of Rice. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 14(2a): 89-95.'),(5118,'134','Dose Optimization in a Wind Tunnel to Determine the Effective Concentration preferred by Male Fall Armyworm Moths','Paras Dev, J.S. Kennedy*, T. Srinivasan and P. Murali Arthanari','16 Dose Optimization in a Wind Tunnel to Determine the Effective Concentration preferred by Male Fall Armyworm Moths Paras Dev.pdf','',1,'The fall armyworm (FAW), Spodoptera frugiperda (J. E. Smith) (Lepidoptera: Noctuidae), an invasive pest, has posed a concern to farmers and Indian agriculture after being discovered in maize fields on the Indian subcontinent in May 2018. Olfactory signals are commonly used as essential stimuli or releasers for activating responses such as mating partner orientation, identification of suitable oviposition sites, and foraging. A practical monitoring strategy is essential since early detection of the pest in the field will allow farmers to choose appropriate pest management strategies. To do this, a sex pheromone blend was prepared that is anticipated to outperform the commercially available lure. To test this theory, dosage optimization tests were carried out to determine an optimal dose preferred by male Fall armyworm moths. Based on the findings, field trials for effective monitoring, mass trapping, and integrated pest management practices can be implemented.','Spodoptera frugiperda, Sex pheromones, Pheromone blend, Pest Management, Olfactory chemoreception','We tested various dosages of sex pheromone blend in wind tunnel studies, and the dosage concentration of 100 ppm was shown to be the most suitable. Furthermore, because various environmental factors are involved in determining the dose for carrying out this experiment, this approach might be utilised as a standard guideline, which is suggested for every researcher to follow in order to provide authenticity to their research.','INTRODUCTION\r\nOlfactory-induced responses in moths have been related to reproduction, foraging, and feeding environments. Odorants that influence moth behaviour are characterised as either species-specific pheromones or generic odours. While olfaction is the primary modality in reproductive behaviour, while approaching flowers, visual signals might take preference (Balkenius et al., 2006). Sex pheromones emitted by female moths are similar to those emitted by males, but their chemical makeup is different from that produced by males (Butenandt and Von, 1959; Kramer, 1975). Male moths employ distinct ways of detecting pheromone sources. Flying moths have a distinctive orientation toward pheromone sources, which is validated by optomotor anemotaxis (Kennedy and Marsh, 1974).\r\nBehavioural characteristics differ by species and are also affected by pheromone (blend) concentration (Bau et al., 2002; Cardéand Hagaman, 1979; Kuenen and Baker, 1982; Mafra-Neto and Cardé, 1995; Willis and Arbas, 1991). Similarly, effective pheromone source detection is dependent on the moth\'s exposure to temporally variable pheromone concentrations (Baker et al., 1984; 1985; Kennedy et al., 1980). Thus, to increase the legitimacy of the research, it is vital to conduct dosage optimization studies when working with synthetic chemical compounds.\r\nAfter rice and wheat, maize is India’s third most common food crop. Maize is grown throughout the year in all states for various reasons, such as grain, fodder, green cobs, sweet corn, baby corn, and popcorn in peri-urban regions (Farmer’s Portal, 2021). Since the discovery of the invasive insect fall armyworm in maize in May 2018, it has spread rapidly over India’s maize-growing ecologies, owing to its high dispersion capacity and affinity for warmer climates (Suby et al., 2020). Hence, to monitor the fall armyworm in the field, an effective sex pheromone blend is required that may easily stimulate male response to offer necessary knowledge to the farmer about the current diversity present and will be able to adopt necessary management strategies accordingly.\r\nIn anticipation of this scenario, a sex pheromone blend was prepared that is expected to be more potent than commercially available lures. However, to perform research on this, an appropriate concentration of the blend must also be determined, which will aid in the commercialization of the product. To accomplish this, wind tunnel experiments were conducted with varying dosages of pheromone blends to advance an idea for the production of an efficient sex pheromone trap for monitoring and mass trapping.\r\nMATERIALS AND METHODS\r\nInsect Rearing. Insect eggs were collected from the Fall armyworm laboratory, Department of Agricultural Entomology, TNAU, Coimbatore. They were reared on an artificial diet developed by TNAU. They were kept at a temperature of 26 ± 2 °C with a relative humidity of 55 ± 5% and a photoperiod of 16 L: 8 D hours. The larvae were transferred into individual ventilated vials (20 × 15 × 8) for pupation when they reached the third instar stage. They were subsequently sorted out based on their reproductive organs under a stereomicroscope after adult emergence (Rwomushana, 2019). The adults were reared in transparent rearing cages (50 × 50 × 50), and a honey-sugar syrup solution was supplied as an adult diet using a cotton pad. Moths were reared in the lab for three generations before experimentation. All experiments were performed on three-day-old virgin male moths. Adult moths were used only once and were not exposed to any synthetic odour sources before the test.\r\nSynthetic Chemical Compounds. The sex pheromones were selected based on the findings of earlier research by (Gargi, 2021), which primarily focused on the EAG analysis of the response of Spodoptera frugiperda moths to the sex pheromone blend. Compounds were acquired from Sigma-Aldrich, and experiments were conducted using a sex pheromone blend, which included ((Z)-9-tetradecenyl acetate (Z9-14: OAc), (Z)-7-dodecenyl acetate (Z7-12: OAc), and (Z)-9-dodecenyl acetate (Z9-12: OAc) in a ratio of 85:10:05), and a commercial S. fugiperda lure was also purchased from Pest Control India.\r\nPreparation of chemical dosage. All sex pheromone standards purchased were diluted to different concentrations to determine the effective concentration preferred by male S. frugiperda moths. All of the compounds were diluted using HPLC-grade hexane as the diluent. All dilutions of various sex pheromone standards were carried out using the following equation:\r\n \r\nConcentration of stock soloution (µg/ml) =(Weight of standard taken (mg)×Purity%×1000)/(Volume to be made (ml)×100)\r\n \r\nExperimental Procedure. A wind tunnel (200 cm length × 75 height × 75 width cm) with an airflow of 30 cm/s was used to study moth responses to olfactory stimuli. Moths were tested in their scotophase from 17:00 to 00:00 (night hours) at 27 ± 2 °C, 55 ± 5% RH and under 0.3 lux fluorescent lights. Filter paper (Whatman # 1 ® 2 V, Merck KGaA, Darmstadt, Germany) was placed on the Petri plate affixed to a metal stand at the upwind end of the wind tunnel with a 1 mL test sample poured on it. As treatments, various doses of a sex pheromone blend were used, and a commercial lure was simply placed as a rubber septa (Table 1).\r\nA male was released downwind into the wind tunnel and tested for 5 minutes in wind tunnel bioassays. After each test, 5 minutes of clean air was delivered into the wind tunnel. Moth response to the stimulus was recorded as (take-off, 150 cm from the source, 100 cm from the source, or halfway across the wind tunnel, 50 cm from the source, landing on the source). At least 40 virgin males were tested for each treatment. Males were only used once and then discarded.\r\nRESULTS AND DISCUSSION\r\nIn wind tunnel experiments, the sequential behavioural response of virgin male S. frugiperda moths to varying doses (50–400 ppm) of sex pheromone blends compared to a commercial sex pheromone lure showed a significant difference (Table 2). Maximum responses to a sex pheromone lure were seen during the initial flight response (TO – take off), with around 90–100% of males initiating flight from the downwind end. When moths were around 150 cm from the source, there was a significant difference in flight response between the dose levels of 350 ppm (χ2 = 4.33, P = 0.037) and 400 ppm (χ2 = 4.72, P = 0.029). A considerable fluctuation between doses was recorded when moths were 100 cm away from the source, with a rather significant difference between 100 ppm (χ2 = 7.60, P = 0.005) and 250 ppm (χ2 = 6.77, P = 0.009). The fluctuations in in-flight response among the varying doses were considerably less when moths approached the source at 50 cm. There was a significant difference in 100 ppm (χ2 = 5.09, P = 0.024), 200 ppm (χ2 = 5.06, P = 0.024) and 300 ppm (χ2 = 4.08, P = 0.043). However, only half of the population landed on the source, with the highest 59% of moths landing on the source at 100 ppm and the lowest 39% landing on the source at 50 ppm. Furthermore, behavioural landing on source response varied significantly at 100 ppm (χ2 = 7.68, P = 0.005) and 150 ppm (χ2 = 4.32, P = 0.037).\r\n \r\nInsect olfaction is essential in several vital processes, including mating, oviposition, and dietary preferences (He et al., 2022; Hildebrand and Shepherd 1997). Female moths secrete a species-specific sex pheromone in a specialised gland at the tip of their abdomen, attracting males of the same species (Percy-Cunningham and Macdonald 1987). Thus, the production of sex pheromone compounds in a precise ratio attracts male S. frugiperda moths.\r\nCombining three sex pheromone compounds ((Z)-9-14: Ac, (Z)-9-12: Ac, and (Z)-7-12: Ac) in an 85:5:10 ratio produced a better response than commercial sex pheromone lures, which typically function on a single pheromone complex. The composition and the relative ratio of the blend components are species-specific and, when blended with the subsequently specified receptors, play a vital role in species attraction, permitting divergence in mate preferences for newer pheromone blends (Cande et al., 2013; Smadja and Butlin 2009).\r\nThe moth\'s response to sex pheromone was observed to be dose-dependent. However, a drop in moth landings was noticed after increasing the dosage to a certain level during the wind tunnel experiments (Fig. 1). This drop might be attributed to the rapid dispersion of pheromones in the environment, which hinders males\' seeking abilities. To test this assumption, it was observed that increasing the dose resulted in a significant difference during the initial short flight, implying that males were unable to determine the origin of the source. However, a rise in pheromone levels may behave as an antagonist (Quero et al., 1995; Wang et al., 2022).\r\nIn previous olfactometer research (Gargi, 2021), it was observed that males were attracted to the sex pheromone blend at a concentration of 10 ppm. However, when tested again in a wind tunnel, the concentration jumped to 100ppm, which was precisely ten times higher than in the olfactometer studies. As a result, it can be inferred that the concentration of sex pheromones is significantly affected by the size of the background environment; the larger the size, the higher the concentration. Moreover, when this blend will be taken for field trials, the concentration will change, and the dose needs to be optimised again.\r\nStatistical Analysis. The behavioural response of virgin male S. frugiperda moths to different dosages of sex pheromone blend was studied using the χ2 test (Table 3).\r\n','Paras Dev, J.S. Kennedy, T. Srinivasan and P. Murali Arthanari (2022). Dose Optimization in a Wind Tunnel to Determine the Effective Concentration preferred by Male Fall Armyworm Moths. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 14(2a): 96-100.'),(5119,'134','Studies on Preparation of Wood Apple Ready to use RTS Powder Mix','Sneha H.S.*, Kirankumar Gorabal, K. Ramachandra Naik, Anil I. Sabarad and Sachinkumar T. Nandimath','17 Studies on Preparation of Wood Apple Ready to use RTS Powder Mix Sneha H.S.pdf','',1,'Wood apple is an underutilized fruit crop known for its excellent flavour, nutritional value and medicinal characteristics with great potentiality for processing into valuable products. This fruit is not popular as a desert fruit because, fruit has hard shell containing mucilaginous pulp with numerous seeds. Therefore, it is not easily marketable in fresh form should be processed into acceptable products. This experiment was conducted at Department of Postharvest Technology, KRC College of Horticulture, Arabhavi, to standardize the recipe for preparation of wood apple ready to use RTS powder mix. The experiment was laid out in CRD with six treatments consist of three levels (50, 60 and 70 g) of fruit powder, three levels (50, 40 and 30g) of maltodextrin, two levels (500 and 1000 mg) of spice mixture and constant level (100 mg) of CMC (carboxymethyl cellulose). Treatment T6 (70 g wood apple powder, 30 g maltodextrin, 1000 mg spice mixture and 100 mg CMC) was found superior in organoleptic as well as physicochemical characteristics and this powder mixture can be safely stored upto three months under ambient conditions.','Wood apple, ready to use, CMC, powder mix','Wood apple instant RTU mix powder prepared with 70 g wood apple powder, 30 g maltodextrin, 1000 mg spice mixture and 100 mg CMC was found superior in organoleptic as well as physico-chemical characters and it can be stored safely up to 3 months under ambient conditions. ','INTRODUCTION\r\nWood apple (Feronia limonia Swingle) is an under exploited fruit, which is known for its delightful pulp characters having exceptional medicinal values. It is one of the most nutritious fruit of Indian subcontinent. It contains many vitamins such as, vitamin A, Vitamin C, thiamine, riboflavin and niacin and minerals such as, calcium and phosphorus. The fruit is used in India as a liver and cardiac tonic, when unripe, as an astringent means of halting diarrhoea and dysentery (Singh, 2001), effective treatment for hiccups, sore throat and diseases of the gums. The pulp is poultice onto bites and stings of venomous insects (Kirtikar and Basu 1935). Wood apple has hypoglycemic activity, antitumour, larvicidal, antimicrobial activity and hepatoprotective activity (Vidhya and Narayin 2011). It also has anti-diabetic and antioxidant potential by reducing the level of blood glucose and malondialdehyde (Patel, et al., 2012). The fruit is considered to be one of the natural sources of anti-oxidants due to its potential radical scavenging activity of various phytochemicals (Nithya and Saraswathi 2010). \r\nPeople consume the raw fruit pulp as such with or without sugar or jaggery, or as a beverage after blending it with other ingredients (cardamom, salt, ginger etc.). Some people prepare a popular drink known as Simhalese or dimbulkiri (wood apple milk) by mixing ripened wood apple pulp with coconut milk and palm sugar (Morton, 1987). The pulp is also suitable for making food products such as juice, nectar, jam, jelly, fruit bar, wine, chutneys, sherbet, pulp powder etc. Because of its excellent flavour and nutritive value this fruit has a great potential for value addition especially in beverage industry. Due to a lack of knowledge about fruit processing technologies and processing facilities, approximately 25 to 30 per cent of harvested wood apple fruits are lost before consumption (Namdev and Singh 2015). One of the best ways to prevent losses is to convert them into various products. Dried foods/ dehydrated fruits, particularly in tropical and temperate countries, have traditionally been recognized as alimentary reserves among processed foods. \r\nIndia represents a huge growth potential in the global fruit powder market. This can be attributed to changing consumer preference for nutritious and healthy food and increasing acceptance of packaged foods with high nutritional content. Increasing prevalence of lifestyle problems is propelling the trend of healthy and nutritious food, which is another factor that is contributing toward increased growth of the fruit powder industry in the country (Anon., 2021). Fruit powder used in development of value-added products contribute significantly to the therapeutic as well as nutritive value. Development of value-added products based on fruit powders have excellent flavour and very attractive colour along with helping in overcoming the post-harvest losses as well as contribute in improving the health status of people (Johari and Kawatra, 2016). Keeping above points in view and possibly meeting out the recent trend of the consumers, efforts have been made to develop the nutritionally rich and delightful flavoured wood apple ready to use RTS powder mix. \r\nMATERIAL AND METHODS\r\nThe fully ripe, edible stage wood apple fruits were selected and opened by breaking against the hard surface. The pulp along with the seed and fiber was separated with the help of stainless-steel spoon from the hard shell. The extracted pulp was homogenized by hand squeezing and then it was passed through the strainer to separate seeds and fibre. Thus, obtained pulp (without seeds and fiber) was further homogenised manually to make fine pulp.\r\nThe homogenised pulp was pre-treated with potassium metabisulphite (KMS) at the rate of 250 ppm and was spread evenly on the drying trays to a thickness of 5 mm. These trays were loaded into an EZY cabinet tray drier and dried at 60±2°C for 24 hours. The dried pulp was pulverized in a mixer. Pulverized pulp powder was sieved under 52 mesh size and was mixed with maltodextrin, spice mixture (powder form of pepper, ginger, cardamom and salt) and carboxy methyl cellulose (CMC) according to the treatment mentioned in Table 1. While organoleptic evaluation RTS was prepared by dissolving 10 g of ready to use RTS powder mix in 200 ml of cold water and then powdered sugar was added to adjust the TSS of RTS between 14 to 15°Brix.\r\nThe products were analyzed for moisture content using a moisture analyser (Model: P1019319, A & D Company Limited, Japan). A digital water activity meter (Model: Novasia AG, Switzerland) was used to determine the water activity. Titratable acidity (%) and ascorbic acid (mg/100 g) content was estimated as per the modified procedure of AOAC (Anon., 1984). The pH was determined by using a digital pH meter (Model: Analog research, USA). The total carbohydrate content was estimated by using the anthrone method (Hodge and Hofreiter, 1962). A Lovibond colour meter (Lovibond RT300, Portable spectrophotometer, The Tintometer Limited, Salisbury, UK) with an 8mm aperture was used to determine the colour values (L*. a*, b*). The minerals such as calcium, phosphorus and iron present in the ready to use RTS powder mix was estimated as per the procedure given in AOAC (Anon., 1990). The organoleptic characters were evaluated by a panel of semi-trained judges consisting of teachers and post-graduate students of KRC College of Horticulture, Arabhavi, using a nine point hedonic scale as per the method of Ranganna (2003).\r\nRESULTS AND DISCUSSION \r\nEffect of different treatments on the nutritional quality of wood apple ready to use RTS powder mix. The mean moisture content was increased from 6.95 to 7.37 per cent during three months of storage (Table 2). The marginal increase in the moisture content in ready to use RTS instant powder mix may be due to absorption of moisture by powder as well as other ingredients added (hygroscopic nature) to the powder mix. \r\nSimilar observations were made by Manya (2014) in sapota RTU mix, Shishir et al. (2017) in guava and Sornsomboonsuk et al. (2019) in bael. The mean water activity found increased gradually from 0.308 to 0.331 (Table 2). The slight variations in the moisture content of the powder mixture was also reflected in the water activity of the powder. The data was in agreement with Du et al. (2014) in persimmon powder and Pattar (2020) in jamun seed powder. The mean titratable acidity exhibited a decreasing trend 5.11 to 4.77 per cent (Table 2) with the increase in the storage period. Shinde et al. (2021) opinioned that, the decrease in acidity may be due to the formation of polysaccharides and oxidation of reducing sugar by degradation of acids. Similar results were noticed by Dak et al. (2014) in dried pomegranate arils; Swami et al. (2014) in kokum sarbat mix; Shinde et al. (2021) in jack fruit RTU mix. The mean pH increased from 3.65 to 3.67 (Table 2) as the storage period progressed. An increase in pH during storage may be attributed due to a decrease in acidity during storage and can also be due to the formation of sugars by the degradation of acidic compounds. Similar results were obtained by Swami et al. (2016) in ripe jackfruit bulb powder; Sneha and Deb (2018) in wood apple powder and Moazzem et al. (2019) in wood apple powder beverages. The mean ascorbic acid content was decreased from 2.82 to 2.22 mg/100 g (Table 2) during 3 months of storage. A reduction in ascorbic acid content might be due to the degradation of ascorbic acid molecules forming dehydro ascorbic acid by oxidation (Lal et al., 2009). \r\nSimilar data was noticed by Swami et al. (2014) in kokoum sarbath mix and kokum solkhadi mix and Shinde et al., (2021) in jackfruit RTU mix. The total carbohydrate content was increased from 31.48 to 31.49 g/100 g (Table 2) during the storage period of 3 months. The variations in the carbohydrate content of powder mixture made with different recipes may be due to variations in the concentration of different ingredients used. A similar increase in carbohydrate content during storage was reported by Sahni and Shere (2017) in apple pomace powder, carrot pomace powder and also in beetroot pomace powder.\r\nThe mean colour values (Table 3) L* (lightness) value of RTS powder mix was decreased from 69.23 to 66.00 during storage period. The a* (redness) value was increased from 9.61 to 10.09 during storage period. The b* (yellowness) value decreased from 18.00 to 17.71 during storage period of 3 months. The decrease in L* value and increase in a* values indicate the product mixture turning towards dark colouration. The darkening of the product during storage particularly under ambient conditions is most common in many the fruit powders as well as products. Similar findings were observed in banana powder by Mary et al. (2007), lemon by Darvishi et al. (2014), mango powder by Nasiru et al. (2019) and in wood apple fruit powder by Singhania and Ray, (2019). \r\nA negligible reduction in the mean calcium, phosphorus and iron content (43.40 to 42.19, 25.38 to 25.33 and 4.61 to 4.58 mg/100 g, respectively) in RTS powder mix was observed (Table 3). This reduction was due to the light, oxygen and water content will affect the mineral content of the product during storage, which will result in oxidation and reduction of these minerals. The results are confirmative with Attri et al., (1998; Vidhya and Narain (2011), Bafna and Manimethalai; (2014) and Manya (2014).\r\nEffect of different treatments on the organoleptic quality and safety of wood apple ready to use RTS powder mix. The RTS powder mix exhibited significant variations with respect to all the sensory quality parameters. The mean organoleptic scores decreased from an initial value of 7.63 to 7.17 for color and appearance, 7.23 to 6.76 for flavor, 7.82 to 7.52 for mouthfeel, 7.57 to 7.09 for taste and 7.56 to 7.14 for overall acceptability during the storage period of 3 months (Table 4). The overall decline in the sensory score during the storage may be due to some undesirable changes taking place in the product during storage. Similar results were observed in Kumar et al. (2012) in jack fruit powder; Manya (2014) in sapota RTU powder mixture and Shinde et al. (2021) in RTU jackfruit mixture powder. No microbial growth was observed during the storage period, ensuring that, the product was safe even after 90 days of storage, because of the less moisture, low water activity of RTS powder mix and high acidic nature of pulp. \r\nEconomics of wood apple ready to use RTS powder mix. Among different treatments the highest (Rs. 1.76) returns/rupee of investment (RPRI) was noticed in T1 and lowest (Rs 1.51) RPRI was noticed in T6 (Table 5). The prepared wood apple powder’s return per rupees of expenditure was varying slightly among the treatments, this is because of the variation in the treatment recipes. The treatment T1 recorded the highest returns per rupees of expenditure compared to other treatments, this may be because of maximum levels off ingredients powder used. Similar cost benefit ratio was observed in Shinde et al. (2021) in jackfruit RTU mix.\r\n','Sneha H.S., Kirankumar Gorabal, K. Ramachandra Naik, Anil I. Sabarad and Sachinkumar T. Nandimath (2022). Studies on Preparation of Wood Apple Ready to use RTS Powder Mix. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 14(2a): 101-106.'),(5120,'134','Genetic Variability and Trait Association Studies on Yield and Pod Shattering Attributing Traits in MAGIC Population of Soybean (Glycine max (L.) Merrill)','Prathima H.N.*, V. Swarnalatha, M. Rajendar Reddy and S. Vanisri','18 Genetic Variability and Trait Association Studies on Yield and Pod Shattering Attributing Traits in MAGIC Population of Soybean _Glycine max _L._ Merrill_ Prathima H.pdf','',1,'Pod shattering is one of the major constraints in soybean that could reduce the yield potential considerably in tropical and subtropical areas. As a consequence, the management of pod shattering is of great importance for achieving higher productivity. Hence there is a need of assessing the extent of variability and association studies in recently developed tailor made source of germplasm i.e., MAGIC population which has undergone heavy genetic recombinations. Keeping these points in view, the present investigation was carried out to assess the genetic variability and association studies in 60 soybean MAGIC lines along with six checks for 15 quantitative traits. The ANOVA found that all the traits differed significantly for different source of variations. The higher estimates of PCV and GCV were found for pod shattering, seed yield per plant, number of branches per plant and plant height. The measure of broad sense heritability was found high for most of the traits and lowest (51.4 %) for harvest index. High heritability coupled with high genetic advance was observed for plant height, number of branches per plant, pod wall thickness, weight of pods, weight of seeds per pod, hundred seed weight, seed yield per plant and pod shattering indicating that these traits are governed by additive gene effects and direct selection of soybean MAGIC lines based on these traits would be effective. The association studies revealed that seed yield per plant have positive correlation with days to 50% flowering, harvest index, number of pods per plant, days to maturity, pod width, pod wall thickness, weight of seeds per pod and hundred seed weight and negative association with plant height, number of branches, number of clusters, pod length and pod shattering while, Pod shattering has significantly negative correlation with pod wall thickness and pod width. From the results, it is revealed that an increase in pod wall thickness and pod width will reduce the incidence of pod shattering and reduce the yield losses.','Soybean, MAGIC, Pod shattering, Augmented design, Correlation and path coefficient','From the findings of the present investigation, it can be concluded that a substantial amount of genetic variation exists in the selected soybean MAGIC lines since they exhibited a wide range of variation for all the characters. Higher estimates of genetic parameters like PCV, GCV, broad sense heritability and genetic advance were observed for pod shattering percentage, seed yield per plant, number of branches per plant indicating predominance of additive gene action. Thus, these traits can be fixable and should be given priority in the selection of soybean MAGIC lines in future crop improvement programs. The traits days to fifty % flowering, number of pods per plant, pod weight, weight of seeds per pod, hundred seed weight and harvest index could be used for selection in yield improvement as they have positive direct effect on total plant yield. As pod shattering has significant negative correlation with pod wall thickness and pod width, these traits can be used for indirect selection for pod shattering tolerance breeding programmes.','INTRODUCTION \r\nSoybean, a “golden bean” is thought to have been domesticated 5,000 years ago in East Asia, which scatters its seeds via pod dehiscence (Hymowitz and Singh 1987). Although this characteristic is important for wild species adaptation to natural habitats, it reduces soybean yields significantly. Pod shattering, a physiological feature that can severely reduce seed yield is a major hindrance to soybean production in tropical and sub-tropical ecosystems (Krisnawati and Adie 2017). Yield losses due to shattering can range from 34 to 99% (Tiwari and Bhatnagar 1991), depending on the variety\'s susceptibility, environmental factors (temperature and relative humidity), pod morphology and anatomyand the length of the harvest delay after maturity (Zhang and Boahen 2010; Krisnawati and Adie 2017; Gaikwad, 2018).\r\nThe success in increasing soybean resistance to pod shattering is determined by the availability of genetic diversity, an understanding of the genes controlling shattering resistance and an efficient selection method. In order to adopt proper selection methods, there must be variability in the plant population before starting any crop improvement programme (Dhanwani et al., 2013). As phenotypic variation is influenced by environmental factors, selection based on it alone is erroneous. To understand the genetic makeup of the experimental population, it is needed to split overall variability into several components. In assessing variability at the genotypic and phenotypic levels, genetic parameters such as genotypic coefficient of variation (GCV) and phenotypic coefficient of variation (PCV) are quite useful. In addition, partitioning observed variability into heritable and non-heritable components is necessary for effective selection (Yadawad et al., 2015). As a result, the parameter heritability is employed to calculate the heritable component of total variation, but it is insufficiently informative for proper selection. As a result, heritability along with genetic advance can help in determining genetic gain under selection (Johnson et al., 1955).\r\nFurthermore, due to the repeated use of the same parents during the hybridisation technique Indian soybean cultivars have a very narrow genetic base (Bharadwaj et al., 2002). As a result, a multi-way hybrid such as MAGIC (Multi-parent Advanced Generation Inter Cross) can add variability to the crop gene pool as it is a highly variable and diverse source of germplasm which undergoes high genetic recombination events. The genetic parameters in various soybean cultivars were studied by Chandrawat et al. (2017); Guleria et al. (2019); Jain et al. (2018); Joshi et al. (2018); Koraddi and Basavaraja (2019); Kumar et al. (2018); Neelima et al. (2018). But, an in-depth study is required on soybean MAGIC lines which is of current importance. Hence, the present study was carried out which deals with the assessment of phenotypic coefficient of variation, genotypic coefficient of variation, heritability and genetic advance in soybean MAGIC lines for yield and pod shattering attributing traits.\r\nGrain yield in soybeans, as in other crops is a complicated trait that is influenced by a number of factors. The study of direct and indirect effects of yield and its components provides the basis for the subsequent breeding programme and thus a gain in bean production may be more effectively tackled on the basis of yield component performance and selection for highly associated traits. Knowledge of character correlations is extremely useful in breeding programmes since, it allows the breeder to easily determine which characters to employ as selection indices. Path co-efficient analysis determines the direct and indirect effects of one variable on another, enabling the correlation co-efficient to be divided into direct and indirect effect (Dewey and Lu 1959)\r\nMATERIALS AND METHODS\r\nThe field study was carried out inARS (Agricultural Research Station) Adilabad, Hyderabad during Kharif 2021. The experimental material consisted of 60 soybean MAGIC lines with 6 checks Basara, KDS-726, KDS-753, AISB-50 (tolerant) and JS-335, JS-9305 (susceptible). All the entries were evaluated in Augmented Randomised Block Design (RBD) by keeping inter and intra-row spacing of 45 and 10 cm respectively. Evaluation of MAGIC lines for pod shattering was carried out in oven dry method at 40°C for 8 hour and 25°C for 16 hours alternatively for 7 days. The observations were recorded for 15 yield and its attributing traits and subjected to statistical analysis.\r\nStatistical Analysis. The statistical analysis was carried out using R package “augmented RCBD” software version 4.2.Genotypic coefficient of variation (GCV) and phenotypic coefficient of variation (PCV) were estimated as per suggested by Burton and Devane (1953), heritability and genetic advance were calculated as per Johnson et al., 1955. Correlation coefficients (Falconer, 1981) and Path coefficient analysis was done according to Wright (1921); Dewey and Lu (1959) to estimate the direct and indirect effects.\r\nRESULTS AND DISCUSSION\r\nANOVA and Genetic parameters: The analysis of variance revealed a significant difference among the MAGIC lines for all the 15 traits for different source of variations. The block effect (unadjusted) and the treatment effects (adjusted and unadjusted) were significant indicating the presence of considerable amount of genetic variability. Similarly, the effects due to checks, varieties and checks vs. varieties were significant indicating that the MAGIC lines were significantly different from checks. However, the adjusted block effects were non-significant for different traits related to yield and pod shattering under field condition indicating homogeneity of evaluation blocks. It provides ample opportunity for the breeder in the selection of lines having traits in the desirable direction. This is in agreement with the result obtained by Koraddi and Basavaraja (2019).\r\nThe magnitude of variability is estimated by the parameter PCV and GCV which suggests the phenotypic and genotypic components of variation respectively. The value of PCV was found higher than the corresponding GCV for all the characters. But, a narrow gap between the PCV and GCV was observed indicating a lower influence of environmental factor in the expression of selected traits. Thus, selection of the genotypes for these characters would be beneficial. Similar results were obtained by Neelima et al. (2018).\r\nHigher estimates of PCV and GCV were recorded in pod shattering % (38.97, 38.69), Seed yield per plant (30.81, 30.80), Number of branches per plant (28.41, 28.34) and plant height (22.75, 22.73). The results suggesting the presence of sufficient variability among the MAGIC lines for these traits which can be selected directly or may be utilised in future breeding programmes. A moderate value of PCV and GCV was recorded for Hundred seed weight (15.74, 15.11), Weight of seeds per pod (14.98, 13.47), pod wall thickness (20.4, 16.1) and pod weight (15.4, 14.67) and days to fifty % flowering (12.70, 10.55) which is similar to the result obtained by Karnwal et al. (2009); Kumar et al. (2018). The measure of PCV and GCV was found lower for Harvest index (10.00, 9.57), pod width (7.22, 7.10), pod length (10.03, 8.21), number of pods per plant (9.80, 9.54), Number of clusters per plant (12.43, 7.65) and days to maturity (7.12, 6.57). It shows presence of lower variability in the selected MAGIC lines for these traits indicating a good scope for their further improvement. Similar results were obtained by Chandrawat et al. (2017); Dubey et al. (2015); Guleria et al. (2019); Mahbub et al. (2015) for days to maturity.\r\nVariability exists among the genotypes for several traits can be better exploited when they are heritable in nature. The majority of the traits had a high broad sense heritability, according to the results (Table 1). It shows that these traits are least influenced by environmental effects and genetic improvement through selection may be effective. The results are consistent with Akram et al. (2016); Chandrawat et al. (2017); Guleria et al. (2019); Malek et al. (2014). A moderate value (51.42 %) of heritability was observed in harvest index which is in conformity with the findings of Jain et al. (2018); Koraddi and Basavaraja (2019).\r\nGenetic advance refers to the improvement of the mean genotypic value of the selected lines over the mean genotypic value of the parental population. It is usually expressed as a percent of the mean. Selection based on broad sense heritability alone is misleading as it is not sufficiently informative about the existence of gene action (additive/non-additive) and involvement of other factors in the expression of traits. Thus, heritability along with genetic advance together is helpful in predicting genetic gain under selection (Johnson et al., 1955). The estimates of genetic advance as percent of mean was found highest for pod shattering % (79.25) followed by seed yield per plant (63.51), number of branches per plant (58.34), plant height (46.87), hundred seed weight (29.93), pod weight (28.82), pod wall thickness (26.22), weight of seeds per pod (24.98). The lowest value was observed for number of clusters per plant (9.70) followed by days to maturity (12.51), pod length (13.84), pod width (15.92), days to fifty percent flowering (18.08), number of pods per plant (19.17) and harvest index (19.72). Among all the characters, high heritability along with high genetic advance as percent of mean was observed for plant height, number of branches per plant, pod wall thickness, weight of pods, weight of seeds per pod, hundred seed weight, seed yield per plant and pod shattering % indicating predominance of additive gene action and a limited role of environment in the expression of these traits. Hence, these traits are fixable in nature and selection on the basis of these traits would be effective.\r\nTraits like days to 50 % flowering, days to maturity, number of pods per plant, pod length, pod weight exhibited high heritability with moderate genetic advance as percent of mean suggesting the combining or conditional role of additive and non-additive gene action in governing these traits and high heritability may have resulted from favourable influence of environmental factors. Thus, the selection of these traits may not be beneficial. Similar findings were reported by Akram et al. (2016) for days to 50 percent flowering. A moderate estimate of heritability with lower estimates of genetic advance as percent of mean was observed for number of clusters per plant indicating predominance of non-additive gene action and direct selection for these traits may not be rewarding. Hence, recombination breeding may be useful for the improvement of these traits.\r\nCorrelation and path analysis studies. The trait association of fifteen traits were assessed through correlation and path analysis (Table 2 and 3, Fig. 1). The results revealed that seed yield per plant trait have significant positive correlation with days to fifty % flowering, harvest index and number of pods per plant. Similar results of positive correlation of seed yield with number of pods per plant were recorded by Reziazed et al. (2001); Gohil et al. (2003); Saharan et al. (2006); Faisal et al. (2006); Sonwane et al. (2006). It have non-significant positive correlation with days to maturity, pod width, pod wall thickness, weight of seeds per pod and hundred seed weight. There was non-significant negative association with plant height, number of branches, number of clusters, pod length and pod shattering percentage.\r\nThe trait association analysis revealed that pod shattering has significantly negative correlation with pod wall thickness and pod width. This finding is in agreement with Adeyeye et al. (2014); Bhatia and Tiwari (1994). There was non-significant positive correlation with days to fifty percent flowering, pod weight, weight of seeds per pod and hundred seed weight and non-significant negative correlation with days to maturity, plant height, number of branches, number of clusters, number of pods per plant, pod length and harvest index.\r\n Since the anatomical and morphological trait of pod was considered have important role in resistance to pod shattering in soybean, a path coefficient analysis was used to quantify the relation between pod shattering with pod characters. Pod shattering has recorded a negative direct effect on plant yield mainly influenced by the negative indirect effects through days to fifty percent flowering, pod width, pod wall thickness, pod weight, weight of seeds per pod and hundred seeds weight. There was an indirect positive effect from days to maturity, plant height, number of branches, number of clusters, number of pods per plant, pod length and harvest index. The traits days to fifty % flowering, number of pods per plant, pod weight, weight of seeds per pod, hundred seed weight and harvest index could be used for selection in yield improvement as they have positive direct effect on total plant yield. \r\n','Prathima H.N., V. Swarnalatha, M. Rajendar Reddy and S. Vanisri (2022). Genetic Variability and Trait Association Studies on Yield and Pod Shattering Attributing Traits in MAGIC Population of Soybean (Glycine max (L.) Merrill). Biological Forum – An International Journal, 14(2a): 107-113.'),(5121,'134','Assessment of the Performance of Pot Phalaenopsis Orchids for Pre-Flowering Growth under Shade Net','G.V. Gowthami, M. Ganga*, S. Karthikeyan and A. Senthil','19 Assessment of the Performance of Pot Phalaenopsis Orchids for Pre-Flowering Growth under Shade Net G V Gowthami.pdf','',1,'Phalaenopsis (Phalaenopsis sp.) is one of the most economically important genera of orchids, popularly grown as an ornamental potted plant and for cut flowers throughout the world. However, its vegetative growth is slow and largely influenced by different environmental conditions, which has a greater impact on flowering characteristics. Therefore, assessment of its suitability for a specific location is necessary. The present study was carried out in Botanical Garden, Department of Floriculture and Landscape Architecture, Tamil Nadu Agricultural University, Coimbatore. Eight varieties of Phalaenopsis orchid were assessed for growth under shade net house condition. The study revealed that among the eight different varieties assessed, Washington recorded the maximum plant height (22.20 cm), leaf length (20.34 cm), leaf breadth (6.58 cm) and number of roots per plant (20.66). The maximum number of leaves per plant (5.24) was observed in the variety Cali. However, this variety registered minimum values for the other vegetative parameters recorded. Physiological growth parameters viz. leaf area (94.92 cm2), chlorophyll index (59.11 SPAD units), and photosynthetic rate (15.17 µ mol m-2 s-1) were registered maximum in the variety Washington, while transpiration rate (0.86 m mol m-2 s-1) and leaf temperature (42ºC) were registered maximum in the variety Durban. Assessment of vegetative and physiological growth parameters led to the inference that the variety Washington, Bilbao and Nottingham had better overall adaptability, while Cali had a compact growth habit owing to more number of leaves. Suitability of these varieties as pot plants for tropical conditions will be assessed further based on their flowering potentials.','Orchids, Phalaenopsis, Environmental conditions, Shade net, Vegetative parameters','In the present study, it could be observed that the variety Washington outperformed the other varieties in terms of both vegetative and physiological parameters viz. plant height, leaf length, leaf breadth, leaf area, internodal length, root growth, leaf area, chlorophyll index, photosynthetic rate, transpiration rate and leaf temperature under shade net conditions. The variety Cali with more number of leaves was found to have a compact growth form compared to the other varieties. Thus, assessment of vegetative growth parameters in the present study led to the inference that the variety Washington had better adaptability followed by the varieties Bilbao and Nottingham. On the other hand, the variety Cali had a compact growth habit owing to more number of leaves. Suitability of these varieties as pot plants for tropical conditions will be assessed further based on their flowering potentials.','INTRODUCTION\r\nFloriculture and landscaping has been identified by the Indian government as a lucrative industry with 100% export focus (Vahoniya et al., 2018). This sector has flourished as a blooming enterprise due to the constantly increasing need for floriculture products such as cut flowers, loose flowers, pot plants, foliage plants and dry flowers as well the increasing demand for establishment of outdoor and indoor gardens (Rajendran and Smitha 2016). Flowers are the most intriguing creations on the planet because of their many different colours, shapes, sizes and forms (Waser, 1983). Indoor gardening which is a rapidly growing area in recent years relies heavily on potted plants (Gabellini & Scaramuzzi 2022). Factors such as the recent Covid-19 pandemic and the increasing rates of outdoor and indoor pollution have laid greater emphasis on safe and healthier indoor environments (Agarwal et al., 2021). Indoor flowering pot plants are the best choice for meeting these requirements and among the indoor flowering plants, orchids are the most highly valued plant group. Orchids are also considered as a symbol of royalty, with the most spectacular flowers and unique plant architecture. As a result, people in urbanized areas are evincing increasing interest in orchids, resulting in a large demand for these plants, which in turn has increased the scope of benefits to farmers to cultivate these plants and nursery men to propagate these plants on large scale. Orchids are mostly used for two purposes; as cut flowers for various decorations, as well as potted plants for their aesthetic appearance in interior landscapes for homes, shopping malls, gardens, offices and educational institutions (Khuraijam et al., 2017). \r\nOrchids belongs to the most evolved and second largest family in Angiosperms, Orchidaceae with around 800 genera and 22,500 species (Mabberley, 2008; Singh et al., 2019). More than one lakh hybrids have been identified and are being produced around the world. The eastern Himalayas, western and southern Indian hills, the north-eastern Himalayan region and Kerala\'s west coast are the main orchid-producing areas (Rajeevan & Sobhana 1993). Phalaenopsis is the most common monopodial epiphytic orchid found in warm temperate zones and it is highly appreciated as a cut flower and ornamental potted plant. It is commonly called as moth orchids. The genus Phalaenopsis was first formally described by Carl Ludwig Blume in 1825 and as 70 species native to India, Taiwan, China, Southeast Asia, and Australia with majority in Indonesia and Philippines. It has been constantly ranked among the best sellers in the world potted plant trade, owing to the easy growing and flowering under manmade infrastructure (De, 2020). Phalaenopsis is naturally grown in evergreen forests in tropical and sub-tropical Asia, characterized by constant shade, humid and warm conditions.\r\nThe growth of Phalaenopsis can be divided into three stages. The vegetative phase is the longest, lasting on an average till 35 to 40 weeks from the time the plants are moved to polyhouse or shade net house after being propagated. Phalaenopsis requires relatively higher temperatures (28°C) during vegetative phase, which stimulates leaf initiation and expansion while inhibiting blooming (Runkle, 2018) and thrives best in the environment with low temperature and humidity levels of ≥50%. Plants grow vigorously and the leaves appear healthy when there is enough humidity. Humidity in polyhouse may be readily managed by foggers, watering the walkway, or using a humidifier. Companion plants such as ferns, bromeliads, and other leaf plants can be placed near the Phalaenopsis plant in the growing environment also boost the humidity level. The performance of any crop or variety greatly depends on genotypic environmental interaction. So change in environmental conditions changes performance of varieties. Therefore, it is necessary to assess the suitability of different varieties under location specific conditions.\r\nSince there is limited previous research on this species in the climatic circumstances of Tamil Nadu and considering the long vegetative phase of Phalaenopsis orchid, the present study was taken up. Findings of this study will aid farmers and nurserymen venturing into cultivation of Phalaenopsis orchids, as well as landscape architects involved in indoor gardening and landscaping.\r\nMATERIALS AND METHODS\r\nThe present study was carried out in the Botanical Garden, Department of Floriculture and Landscape Architecture, Tamil Nadu Agricultural University, Coimbatore in 2022 under 75% shade net condition to assess the comparative performance of eight different varieties of Pot Phalaenopsis. The varieties assessed were Andorra, Bilbao, Cali, Durban, Nottingham, Torino, Volterra and Washington. Planting materials were 6 months old tissue cultured plants, sourced from Florance Flora Pvt. Ltd, a popular public authorized ornamental plant supplier in Bengaluru. The plants were planted in 12 cm height and 13.5 cm width transparent polypropylene orchid pots. Broken brick and tile pieces, charcoal and coco peat were used to make the potting media. The experiment was carried out in CRD with eight treatments, three replications and ten plants in each replication. Overhead misting was used to irrigate the plants. Temperature, relative humidity (RH) and light intensity were measured at weekly intervals during the period of experiment. The weekly mean temperature, relative humidity and light intensity during the crop period ranged from 28 to 35°, RH 60 to 75 % and 3000 to 6000 foot candles (fc) respectively. The vegetative and physiological parameters were recorded and analyzed statistically.\r\nPhysiological parameters namely, net rate of photosynthesis (µmol CO2 M-2 S-1), transpiration rate (mol H2O M-2 S-1) and leaf temperature (ºC) were recorded using Portable Photosynthesis system (LI-6400 XT; LI-COR Inc. Lincoln, Nebraska, USA). Chlorophyll meter from Minolta (model 502 of Minolta, Japan) was used to measure SPAD values (Chlorophyll index). The most recently matured leaf was used to measure the recordings. Leaf area was measured using Leaf Area Meter (Licor Model 3100) and expressed as cm2 plant-1.\r\nRESULTS AND DISCUSSION\r\nVegetative parameters. The statistically analyzed data pertaining vegetative parameters namely, plant height, number of leaves per plant, leaf length, leaf breadth, internodal length and number of roots per plant are presented in Table 1. \r\n The results of the present study revealed significant variations among the eight Phalaenopsis varieties for the various vegetative parameters assessed (Table 1). \r\nThe variety Washington recorded maximum plant height (22.20 cm) followed by Bilbao (22.01 cm), while the least plant height was recorded in the variety Cali (14.40 cm) (Fig. 1 A). The varieties varied significantly for plant height, this can be attributed to genetic makeup and level of impact of biotic and abiotic factors on plant varieties. This observation is in accordance with the report of Singh et al. (2014) who conducted evaluation study on ten different varieties of Phalaenopsis under West Bengal situation, Anand et al. (2013) in orchid species in Shevaroy hills of Eastern Ghats and Sahare et al. (2018) in anthurium under south Gujarat condition.\r\nLeaves are the functional unit of photosynthesis, having a significant influence on growth and yield metrics. In the present study, the number of leaves varied significantly among the varieties tested. This is also attributable mostly to the plant\'s genetic makeup, environmental parameters including temperature range, light intensity and relative humidity. Among the different varieties assessed, Cali recorded the highest number of leaves per plant (5.24), followed by Bilbao (4.68) (Fig. 1 B). The variety Washington which had registered the highest plant height, leaf length and leaf breadth recorded the lowest number of leaves per plant (3.29). Similar observations were reported earlier in Dendrobium sp by Pachuau and Fatmi (2007); Fadelah (2007) in Dendrobium at Malaysia, Singh et al. (2014) in Phalaenopsis under controlled condition in West Bengal, Biswal et al. (2017) in Dendrobium at Odisha, Nataraj et al. (2019) in anthurium under hilly zone of Karnataka.\r\nThe leaf length and leaf breadth of the Phalaenopsis varieties differed greatly from variety to variety and had a stronger impact on other plant characteristics and these factors are heavily influenced by the genetic makeup and environmental parameters. As the leaf length increased, the leaf drooped and limited the surface area exposed to appropriate sunlight, lowering the efficiency of plant photosynthesis. Hence, the size of leaf length and leaf breadth should be adequate, so that it is appropriately exposed to proper sunlight for optimal growth. The presence of leaves that are longer and narrower than the older ones suggests that the light level is lower than the optimal level (Dewi et al., 2014). The variety Washington had the maximum leaf length (20.34 cm) and leaf breadth (6.58 cm), facilitating outstanding growth in comparison to the other varieties. This might be due favorable environmental conditions of shade net house providing optimal temperature, humidity, ventilation and light intensity, which aid in efficient metabolic processes of the plants. Leaf length and breadth play a major role influencing photosynthetic efficiency and plant spread. The leaves with more breadth and less length exposed more surface for photosynthesis whereas, leaves with more length and less breadth drooped down which ultimately reduced its surface area for photosynthesis which might affect the growth of plant. Similar results were noticed earlier in Phalaenopsis variety by Singh et al. (2014). In the present study, the variety Cali recorded the shortest leaf length (13.19 cm) and leaf breadth (3.74 cm), thereby reducing the leaf area exposed to sunlight and plant\'s ability to grow and develop rapidly. These results corresponded with the findings of Barman and Naik (2017) in Cymbidium and Roychowdhury et al. (2004) in Dendrobium orchid hybrids respectively and Singh et al. (2014) in Phalaenopsis at West Bengal.\r\nThe variation in internodal length was found significant among the varieties studied, variety the highest and lowest internodal length was registered in the varities Washington (1.30 cm) and Cali (0.60cm) respectively. The length of the internode determines the position and orientation of the leaves, which is a crucial aspect in exposing the plant\'s surface spread. Higher the length of internode, more the exposure of the leaf to the sunlight and aeration. These results confirmed with the observations of Thomas and Lekharani (2008) in monopodial orchids, Singh et al. (2014) in Phalaenopsis under West Bengal condition, Sugapriya et al. (2012) in Dendrobiuum in zones of Karanataka.\r\nIn orchid plants, roots are one of the most impressive structures because they are highly modified to aid in the absorption of moisture and minerals from the medium, which is essential for proper plant growth and development. For a successful plant establishment, good root growth is the most crucial aspect. Root growth is mostly influenced by the plant\'s genetic makeup, media used (Hwang & Jeong 2007) and environmental condition. Among the varieties assessed in the present study, Washington had recorded the maximum number of roots per plant (20.66) which had shown better performance among the varieties assessed and the variety Cali had recorded the lowest (10.10) (Fig. 1 C). This indicates that the plant growth is largely influenced by root growth. Similar results has been noticed in Dendrobium by Thirugnanavel et al. (2019). \r\nPhysiological parameters. The statistically analyzed data pertaining to leaf area, photosynthetic rate, transpiration rate, chlorophyll index and leaf temperature are presented in Table 2.\r\nThe results showed significant differences among the varieties. Increased leaf area will cause the net assimilation rate increase so that the rate of growth also gets increased (Pollet et al., 2010). In the present study, the variety Washington had registered highest leaf area (94.92 cm2)¬ and Cali recorded the lowest leaf area (35.27 cm2) the results are in agreement with the findings of Nair and Shiva (2003); Bhattacharjee (1981). Leaf chlorophyll index of any plant is greatly impacted by its leaf size and area. The maximum chlorophyll concentration was found in plants with larger leaf area, which may have enhanced photosynthetic processes and influenced better plant growth and development (Ling & Subramaniam 2007). The same variety Washington has recorded maximum chlorophyll index (58.78 SPAD units) and Cali has recorded minimum chlorophyll index (47.92 SPAD units). Identical difference in leaf chlorophyll index between varieties was also reported by Shiragur et al. (2004). Photosynthetic capacity is an important indicator that explains the physiological activity and potentiality for vegetative development of the plants (Chen et al., 2008). The variety Washington had recorded high photosynthetic rate (15.17 µ mol m-2 s-1) and Cali recorded least photosynthetic rate (6.51 µ mol m-2 s-1). The enhanced photosynthesis was accompanied by an increase in the ability to consume CO2, which was influenced greatly by growing environment and genotypes (Pollet et al., 2010). The size of leaves of the plants are key factor in determining its ability to capture solar energy for photosynthesis, which has a significant impact on plant growth and development. The variety Durban has shown maximum transpiration rate (0.86 m mol m-2 s-1) and leaf temperature (42.15ºC), while Cali has shown least transpiration rate (0.09 m mol m-2 s-1) and leaf temperature (37.15ºC). This may be due to leaf size parameters and plant adaption capacity. ','G.V. Gowthami, M. Ganga, S. Karthikeyan and A. Senthil (2022). Assessment of the Performance of Pot Phalaenopsis Orchids for Pre-Flowering Growth under Shade Net. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 14(2a): 114-119.'),(5122,'134','Morphological characterization of Chilli (Capsicum annuum L.) Germplasm for the Mining of Breeding Traits','Rahul Sonaniya* and S.K. Singh','20 Morphological characterization of Chilli _Capsicum annuum L._ Germplasm for the Mining of Breeding Traits Rahul Sonaniya.pdf','',1,'An experiment was conducted on 48 chilli genotypes for the mining of diverse morphological breeding traits. A total of 37 morphological traits were considered as per DUS guidelines. All the genotypes were grown in randomized block design in three replications. Maximum variations were reported for fruit shape in longitudinal section followed by plant habit, leaf shape, leaf undulation of margin, fruit glossiness, fruit bearing habit, fruit sinuation of pericarp, fruit texture of surface, fruit color at ripe maturity, fruit shape at the base and fruit shape of apex. Among the different traits assessed, green leaf color, green unripe fruit color, absence of blossom end appendage and light yellow seed color showed 100% frequency for these traits. Higher frequency was also observed for solitary type of fruit bearing habit (95.83%), fruit curvature (97.92%), red color at ripe (95.83%), one color transition (97.92%), enveloping type of calyx cover (91.67%), acute shape at base (97.92%) and apex (89.58%). The distribution frequency of the traits like ovate leaf shape (10.42%) followed by moderately triangular fruit shape in longitudinal section (10.42%), strong fruit sinulation of pericarp (10.42%) respectively were very low. Yellow flower petal color; erect fruit orientation, 2-3 fruit bearing habit, cluster bearing habit, absence of fruit curvature, yellow fruit color, orange fruit color and two stage color transition round fruit shape at base acquires 2.08 % frequency. Genotypes Pusa jwala, MPOJCC 1, MPRJJCC 4, MPJCC 8, MPJKJCC 1, MPJCC 20 found a wide range of variations in qualitative traits. The unique traits reported in very minimal would be considered as important morphological breeding traits for the development of diverse chilli varieties with special identity. These findings will help to identify the genetically pure traits linked with the chilli genotypes during maintenance breeding programme.','Chilli Genotypes, Morphological characterization, Plant breeding, Spice, Vegetable, diversity, unique traits.','Based on morphological characterization analysis, all the cultivars were characterized for the identification of unique breeding traits. Overall study revealed that a considerable amount of variation was present among all the genotypes under study. Genotypes Pusa jwala, MPOJCC 1, MPRJJCC 4, MPJCC 8, MPJKJCC 1, MPJCC 20, MPOJCC 2, MPUPJCC 3, MPJCC 23, MPKJCC 1, MPRJJCC 2, MPMGJCC 1, MPJCC 10, MPJCC 4, MPJCC 6, MPJCC 10, MPUPJCC 4, MPRJJCC 5, MPJCC 12, MPJCC 21, MPJCC 18, MPJCC 13, MPJCC 19, MPJCC 17, MPDJCC2, yellow chilli, MPJCC 7, MPUPJCC 1, MPJCC 2, and MPBJCC 2 found a wide range of variations in morphological traits. These were the genotypes that exhibited a wide range of variations and genotypes need further testing and to be released as a substitute of already existing chilli varieties or they can be involved in the further breeding programme for the development of superior varieties or hybrids for yield and quality improvement of chilli.','INTRODUCTION\r\nChilli (Capsicum annuum L.) makes an appearance as one of the most crucial economical and popular grown vegetable and spice for its green fruits and dry form respectively). Besides, it is used in many processing industries for different products such as pepper sauce, ground pepper and dried pepper, pickled pepper; Peppers play an important role as a spice in many of the world food cuisines (Bosland et al., 2012). It is estimated that 25% of people consuming some form of pepper daily (Smith, 2015). The genus Capsicum consists of about 25 wild and 5 domesticated species, viz., C. annuum L., C. frutescens L., C. chinense Jacq., C. baccatum L. and C. pubescens Ruiz and Pavon (Wang and Bosland 2006). It belongs to family solanaceae and the primary centre of origin for C. annuum is semi-tropical Mexico (Whitmore et al., 2001). It was brought to Europe by Columbus in 1493 as the peppery spice that signified the success of his quest. It was first introduced in India from Brazil by the Portugese towards the end of 15th century and its cultivation became popular in the 17th century.\r\nIn 2020-21, total area of chilli in India was 7,32,213 ha, with the production of 19,88,304 lakh tons with vast majority of production occurring in Andhra Pradesh (42%) followed by Telengana (20.48%) and then by Madhya Pradesh (14.71%). Total area and production of spices in Madhya Pradesh is 6,99,994 ha and 32,37,655 tons respectively. Chilli covers the area of 1,13,366 ha (16.19%) and production of 2,62,616 lakh tons (8.1%) (Spice board, India 2020).\r\nThe genus capsicum consists of a diverse range of plants and fruits, and varies enormously with respect to morphology, yield and nutrition related parameters (Srinivas et al., 2021). There are many of the land races/ varieties which are continuously cultivated by the farmers around the country among which majority of the varieties are either local varieties or hybrids. For the genetic improvement of chilli crop, it is mandatory for researchers to first collect, characterize and then identify the important breeding traits so as to utilize it in genetic improvement programme. The first step for the improvement programme is collective and then morphological characterization on the basis of diverse breeding traits in chilli germplasm. Morphological characterization based on qualitative traits of crops is a very important and essential first step in any crop improvement and breeding programme (Joshi et al., 2020). Cultivars can be recognised and differentiated based on relative differences in morphology of different morphological parameters like seed, seedling and plant growth. Morphological characterization of chilli germplasm accessions has been studied for most plant and fruit traits. Evaluation and Characterization of chilli germplasm becomes a necessary step for utilizing the available diversity for improvement of the crop. Many chilli varieties having immense differences for different traits are being cultivated among different parts of country and some of the variations are so localized that their cultivation other than their zone is completely unknown. Due to their localized distribution, some of these promising varieties are yet to be known. So, it becomes a necessary to estimate the performance of local varieties as well as cultivated varieties along with characteristics of chilli recommended for cultivation in different climatic zones for identifying suitable donors having different desirable attributes under the agro-ecological condition of the central region of India. The purpose of this study is to evaluate various chilli genotypes and to characterize them to know their morphological characteristics. The study also aids in differentiating morphological characteristics from each other and to access the variations present in genotypes under inspection with identification of promising genotypes and traits which can be used in further breeding programme.\r\nMATERIALS AND METHOD\r\nExperimental site. The present investigation was carried out at Department of Plant Breeding and Genetics, Jawaharlal Nehru Krishi Vishwa Vidyalaya, Jabalpur, Madhya Pradesh (India) in the two season (Rabi2020-21/ summer and Kharif 2021-22). Jabalpur is situated on the banks of holy Narmada River in the state of Madhya Pradesh, with coordinates “23.1815° N, 79.9864° E”, at an elevation of 412 meter above MSL, in the Mahakoshal region of Madhya Pradesh. The climate here is mild, and generally warm and temperate. In winter, there is much more rainfall in Jabalpur than in summer. In Jabalpur, the average annual temperature is 25.5°C | 77.9°F. Precipitation here is about 1208 mm | 47.6 inch per year. \r\nExperimental design and plant material used. Forty eight chili genotypes were evaluated in RBD (Randomized block design) with 3 replications during the summer season of 2020-21 from month February to August.\r\nManagement and cultural practices. The seeds were sown under field conditions in earthen pots in a mixture of soil and vermicompost during end of December month and transplanted during middle February month at a spacing of 60 cm × 45 cm and a plot size of 5m2. The full dose of FYM at 25 tonnes/ha was applied during the last field preparation. The recommended dose of nitrogen, phosphorus, and potassium @ 120:60:50 kg/hectare was applied in the form of Urea, SSP and MOP respectively. The entire amount of P and K and half dose of N were used before transplanting and mixed completely in the soil. The remaining half dose of N was given 30 and 60 DAT as top dressing.\r\nData collection and analysis. During the field work, various qualitative traits were recorded. Five plants from each treatment were randomly selected and tagged for recording the observations. The data was taken in the form of descriptor codes assigned by PPV and FRA & UPOV for the crop Chilli. Observations were recorded at nursery stage like seedling anthocyanin and other stages of crop growth when the character under study was fully expressed for example traits related to fruit were recorded when plant reached horticultural maturity and fruit reached an optimum length and girth. The final data collected was analyzed by computing the mean value of the data taken from all the five tagged plants by using MS excel.\r\nRESULTS AND DISCUSSION\r\nMorphological characterization\r\nPlant growth characteristics. All the data regarding morphological characterization is furnished in Tables 1-3. A significant amount of variation was found among the different chilli cultivars for morphological characters. Plant growth habit was characterized as spreading, semi-upright and upright where semi-upright was found dominant (68.75%) while that of upright (22.92%) and for spreading (8.33%) which indicates a high yield potential in majority of genotypes as upright plant height and medium and strong branching leads to higher yields. Erect types are prime importance as they receive good amount of sunlight which speeds up the assimilate production in the plant. Singh et al. (2020). Coloration of seedling was seen in many cultivars (72.92%) and the Cultivars having anthocyanin coloration of nodes are more in number (87.50%) and were categorized as weak (14.29%), medium (23.81%) and strong (61.90%) Bhattacharya et al. (2010) reported that anthocyanin minimize the proliferation of cancer cells; prevent lipid damage in food and protect against diseases of the heart. Likewise, Rodriguez and Kimura (2004) mentioned that antioxidants can neutralize or reduce the activity of free radicals, associated with cardiovascular diseases. Genotypes with sparse stem pubescence were higher in number (82.05%) while genotypes with intermediate stem pubescence were low in number (17.95%). Majority of the cultivars had AngledStem shape (62.50%) and some with round shape (37.50%). \r\nLeaf characteristics. Most of the genotypes have lanceolate leaf shape (83.33%) and ovate leaf shape occurred in some genotypes (10.42%) while some genotypes have broad elliptic (6.25%) leaf shape. In the present investigation dark green leaf color was observed more frequent (50%) while medium green color was observed less frequent (35.42%) and that of light green color was minimum (14.58%). Similar results were reported by Ferdousi et al. (2021) in chilli genotypes. The dark green color of leaves is generally due to presence of high chlorophyll content in the leaves which ultimately leads to increased yield hence; it becomes a good criterion for selection felite cultivars (Pachiyappan and Saravannan 2016). Leaf pubescence was present (60.42%) and characterized as sparse (100%) while in 39.58% leaf pubescence was absent. This is in agreement with the results reported by Smith and Heiser (1951) who mention that for C. frutescens leaf pubescence tends to be scarce. \r\nFlower characteristics. Almost all the genotypes having white corolla color (97.92%) except one which was yellow (2.08%). Attractive flower color is a desirable trait as it helps in attracting pollinators during the pollination process. The above agrees with Pickersgill, (1980) who mentions that in capsicum, two groups of flowers are defined: white and purple. In the group of white flowers, there are two subgroups, the one made up of C. baccatum and a second that groups C. annuum, C. chinense, and C. frutescens. The group of purple flowers are the species C. eximium Hunz., C. cardenasii and C. pubescens. On the other hand, Smith and Heiser (1951) reported that in C. frutescens, the flowers are greenish-yellow, and for C. annuum, they are white. There was a wide variation in terms of anther color, genotypes having pale blue (64.58%) and purple (35.41%). Flower position and stigma exertion highly influences the degree and mode of pollination, it was characterized as drooping and semi-drooping which was seen in 77.08% and 20.83% genotypes respectively.\r\nFruit and seed characteristics. Most of the cultivars have solitary fruit bearing habit (95.83%) while 2-3 and cluster type also seen in 2.08% each. All the genotypes were green in color at immature fruit stage with maximum intensity of medium (50%) followed by dark (35.42%) and then light (14.58%) with minimum intensity. Most of the cultivars have red ripe fruit color (95.83%) and in them maximum with medium intensity (66.75%) followed by light intensity (16.67%) and dark intensity (14.58%) were less in number while one cultivar is dark yellow and one is medium orange in color at ripe which is 2.08% each. Drooping fruit position (77.08%) was dominant over semi drooping (20.83%) followed by erect (2.08%), an erect nature allows for maximum and uniform exposure of all leaves and other vegetative parts to better sunlight and would also result in an increase in dry matter production and an increase in yield. Attractive fruit color, lesser fruit pubescence and smooth fruit texture are the factors which determine consumer acceptability of the product and hence, these traits become a good selection criterion for a breeder. Fruit calyx cover was found enveloping in maximum cases (91.67%) and non- enveloping in few cases (8.33%). Base shape was found acute (97.92%) and round (2.08%) while apex shape was found acute (89.58%) and blunt (10.42%). According to Andrews (1995), the accessions belonging to the C. annuum species are characterized by having small, ovoid fruits with two locules, the fruit—a bloated berry—with different colors. All the cultivars were devoid of Blossom end fruit appendages, similar findings were also found by Nsabiyera et al. (2013). Most of the genotypes seen with neck at the base of fruit (68.75%) and some without neck (31.25%). Sinuation of pericarp was weak (77.08%), medium (12.50%) and strong (10.64%). Fruit curvature was present in 97.92% of cultivars and absent in 2.08% cultivars. Curvature intensity was low in many genotypes (82.98%) followed by medium (12.77) and least with high curvature (4.26). In most of the cases fruit shape in longitudinal section was horn shaped (45.83%) followed by narrow triangular (37.50%), moderately triangular (10.42%) and few in the case of trapezoidal (6.25%). Fruit texture is slightly rough in many cases (52.08%) followed by smooth (39.58%) and rough (8.33%) texture. Fruit pedicel attachments were found strong in more cultivars (60.42%) and weak (39.58%) in some cultivars. Medium fruit glossiness were dominant in maximum cultivars (64.58%) followed by strong gloss (25%) and least with weak gloss (10.42%). Fruit transition were one in stage in 97.92% cultivars and two stages in 2.08%. All the cultivars have light yellow colored seeds. Present findings conferthat there is variation in the above- mentioned traits in a considerable amount even within a species for all the traits studied which can be exploited for the further breeding programme. Also, all the characteristics of the genotypes under study were following the characteristics confirmed by PPV and FRA & UPOV.','E Rahul Sonaniya and S.K. Singh (2022). Morphological characterization of Chilli (Capsicum annuum L.) Germplasm for the Mining of Breeding Traits. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 14(2a): 120-130.'),(5123,'134','Sulphur Transformation in Acid Soils under Closed Incubation Studies','Kasinam Doruk and Indira Sarangthem','21 Sulphur Transformation in Acid Soils under Closed Incubation Studies KasinamDoruk.pdf','',1,'A laboratory investigation was conducted with five levels of Sulphur (0, 10, 20, 30 and 40 (mg S kg-1) to study changes in different extractants of sulphur under field capacity moisture regime. Release of available sulphur in soils was evaluated under application of gypsum as sulphur source. Soils were sampled and analysed on 30, 60 and 90th day after incubation period. Results revealed that application of gypsum @ 30 mg S kg-1 lead to accumulation of higher amount of soluble sulphur. Sulphur in the soils were extracted with four different extractants i.e., 500 ppm Ca(H2PO4)2.H2O, 0.5M NaHCO3, 0.5M NH4OAc and 0.15% CaCl2. An attempt was also made to explain the variation in sulphur mineralization through soils correlations between the amounts of mineralised soil and some individual sulphur extractant. The soil samples were drawn on 30thdays interval to monitor changes in different extractants of sulphur. The experiment was set up in a completely randomized design with five treatments and four replications. The levels had a significant effect on releasing pattern of S at different days of incubation. The result indicated that the releasing pattern of S was high when increasing the incubation time and increased the S level. Among the different levels of sulphur, S@ 30 mg S kg-1 was extracted more sulphur from the soil. The significant correlation between different extractants of sulphur suggested an interrelated dynamic equilibrium amongs all extractants of sulphur.','Sulphur, Incubation, Extractants, Gypsum, Field Capacity','Results obtained in the present investigation, thus, revealed that distribution of different S extractants in surface layer of soils is greatly influenced by soil properties and inter-relationships amongst themselves. The release pattern of sulphur was highest up to 90 DOI except for sodium bicarbonate which was recorded at 30 DOI. Increasing levels of sulphur @ 30 mg S kg -1 increase the available sulphur content in the incubated soils. Soil texture (Clay content) was significantly influenced the release pattern of sulphur and higher the clay content, release of sulphur content also higher. Zero fertilization led to decline in the levels of all the extractants as compared to rest of the treatments. Gypsum treatment alone increased sulphur concentration in all four types of sulphur extractants. The results also indicated that different extractants of sulphur followed each other and are inter-related within them. The overall results suggested that S @ 30 mg kg-1 alone proved to be the best in respect of the parameters studied.','INTRODUCTION\r\nFAO (2021) reported global rice production in 2021 is still seen around 518 million tonnes (milled basis), up 0.9 % year-on-year and a fresh peak. The latest FAO forecast of rice stocks at the close of the 2021/22 marketing seasons has undergone only minor adjustments since November and is still seen hovering around a record of 188 million tonnes. World rice trade in 2022 (January-December) is predicted to reach 51.4 million tonnes, up 4.9 % from the expected level for 2021. Abundant supplies are still expected to sustain a 1.6 % annual expansion in global rice utilization in 2021/2022 to an all-time high of 519 million tonnes. Agriculture is the mainstay of the Indian economy, contributing about 23 % of gross domestic product (GDP) and providing a livelihood to two-thirds of the population. The net cultivated area has been about 141 million ha for the last 30 years. However, there has been a progressive increase in the gross cropped area as the cropping intensity has increased from 118 to 135 % in the last three decades. The total gross cropped area is about 190 million ha (Anonymous, 2019). In India, according to the first estimates released by the agriculture and farmers welfare ministry, the kharif rice production is expected to reach a record level of 107.04 mt during 2021-2022, which is slightly higher than last year’s figure of 104.41 mt. (Sutanuka, 2021). As crop demands for S increase, deficiencies are more likely to occur on Soils that inherently supply less available S within rooting zone. Minimum use of low- analysis fertilizers like ammonium sulphate and single super phosphate and organic manures has rendered the Indian soils deficient in sulphur. Sulphur is one of the most limiting nutrients for agricultural production in many Asian countries creates S deficiency in soils due to continuous cropping and regular use of S free fertilizers in several agro-ecological zones. Continuous removal of S from soils by plant uptake has led wide spread S deficiency and soil S budget all over the world (Aulakh et al., 1977). Role of sulphur in Indian agriculture is now gaining importance because of the recognition of its role in increasing crop production, not only of oil seeds, pulses and forages but also of many cereals (Singh et al., 2000). Sulphur deficiency in crops is gradually becoming widespread due to continuous use of sulphur free fertilizers, high yielding crop varieties, intensive multiple cropping systems coupled with higher productivity. Sulphur is essential for protein formation, important for high protein content, a component of vitamin A and activates certain enzyme systems in plants (Havlin et al., 2004). Sulphur is best known for its role in the synthesis of proteins, oils, vitamins and flavoured compounds in plants. About 90% of sulphur is present in amino acids (Somnath and Goutam 2012).\r\nMATERIALS AND METHODS\r\nA total of thirty bulk soil samples (0-15 cm) from three blocks of Imphal East District, Manipur having different physico-chemical properties were collected under stratified random sampling – proportional allocation method. The collected soil samples were then allowed to air dried in shade, ground with wooden mortar and pestle and passed through a 2 mm sieve. The sieved soil samples has been stored in labeled polythene bags for determination of different soil parameters and incubation studies. The climate of Manipur falls under sub-tropical humid type with mild, dry winters and a hot monsoon season. An incubation study was carried out to determine sulfur transformation/mineralization rates in soil samples obtained from representative soils of Imphal East District, Manipur. The experiment was conducted to study the release pattern of sulphur in different soils of Manipur. From the thirty soil samples five samples were selected for incubation studies. 30 g of 2 mm sieved soil sample was filled with 250 ml (depth 9 cm, diameter 21cm) plastic containers. The soil has been incubated at room temperature for 90th days at field capacity by applying water as and when required. The loss water from the samples were checked by weighing the sample at 3 days interval and accounted only for 0.2-0.3 ml of water in 1 week. The soil samples were drawn on 30, 60 and 〖90〗^th days interval after incubation to monitor changes in different extractants of sulphur. The soil available sulphur were extracted with solution of 500ppm Ca(H2PO4)2.H2O (Ensminger, 1954), 0.5M NH4OAc (Rehm and Caidwell, 1968), 0.15% CaCl2 (Williams and Steinbergs 1959) and 0.5M NaHCO3 (Victor and Nearpass 1960). The soil samples were shaken for half an hour with a soil to solution ratio of 1:5 and centrifuged and extractable S were determined turbidimetrically (Chesnin and Yien 1951). The experiment was set up in a completely randomized design with five treatments and four replications. The treatments were: T0 ( Control ), T1 (10 mg S kg-1), T2 (20 mg S kg-1), T3 (30 mg S kg-1) and T4 (40 mg S kg-1). Gypsum was used as a source of sulphur.\r\nRESULT AND DISCUSSION\r\nThe physical and chemical characteristics of bulk soil samples are presented in Table 1. The sand, silt and clay fractions varied from 8.20 - 34.70 %, 6.10 – 32.50 % and 36.40 – 80.92 %. Majority of the soils were clay in texture. The pH of the soils varied from 4.59 – 5.43 with a mean value of 5.03. The EC content of the soils varied from 0.05 – 0.29 d Sm-1 with a mean value of 0.13 d Sm-1. The organic carbon content of the soil ranging from 10.5 – 27.0 g kg-1 with a mean value of 17.2 g kg-1. CEC of the soils ranged from 10.28 – 20.10 Cmol (p+) kg-1 with a mean value of 15.07 Cmol (p+) kg-1. The available N, P and K ranged from 214.21 – 489.85 Kg ha-1, 17.28 – 57.62 Kg ha-1 and 145.89 – 369.47 Kg ha-1 with a mean values of 330.22 Kg ha-1, 28.80 Kg ha-1 and 266.08 Kg ha-1, respectively. The exchangeable Ca2+ and Mg2+ of the soil varied from 0.64-1.95Cmol (p+) kg-1 and 0.44-1.03Cmol (p+) kg-1 with a mean values of 1.31Cmol (p+) kg-1 and 0.75Cmol (p+) kg-1. Kher and Singh (1993) and Patel et al. (2011) indicating that these soil properties played a major role in availability of sulphur content. \r\nIncubation Studies. The data pertaining to effect of different levels of sulphur on 500 ppm Monocalcium Phosphate (Ca (H2PO4)2.H2O) under incubation are presented in Table 2. As the period of incubation advanced, a continuous increase in 500 ppm Monocalcium Phosphate content of soils was noticed in 30, 60 and 90th days of incubation (DOI). The data on 500 ppm Monocalcium Phosphate extractant indicated significant difference between treatments. The highest available sulphur content was observed on the 90th day of incubation. At 30, 60 and 90th DOI, the highest 500 ppm Monocalcium Phosphate extractant content of 51.76, 60.27 and 67.34 mg S kg-1 was noticed in the treatment of T3 – 30 mg S kg-1. It was on par with the treatment received T4 – 40 mg S kg-1. Similar with the finding of Luxmi et al. (2018). Aluminium and iron oxides are the two major components involved in sulphate adsorption by soils. When 500 ppm MCP solutions are introduced to the soil, Phosphate ions displace SO42- ions from retention sites into the solution. The superiority of 500 ppm MCP can be explained by the phosphate ion having greater power to displace the adsorbed sulphate than does the acetate ion, determining higher values of extractable sulphate, Aylmore et al. (1967).\r\nAmong the treatments, the highest 0.5M NH4OAc (Ammonium acetate) content of 39.23 , 44.28 and 49.03 mg S kg-1 at 30, 60 and 90th DOI was noticed in the treatment that received 30 mg S kg-1 (T3) and it was on par with the treatments of 40 mg S kg-1 (T4). As ammonium acetate acetic acid is an acidic reagaent, additionally, it solubilizes some fraction of inorganic sulphur compounds from soils (Rehm and Caldwell 1968). Several volatile organic S compounds are emitted from flooded soils. Among the compounds isolated in significant amounts are carbon disulfide, carbonyl sulfide, methyl mercaptan, dimethyl sulfide and dimethyl disulfide (Freney and Boonjawat 1983). At 30, 60 and 90th DOI, the highest 0.15% CaCl2 (Calcium chloride) content (25.09, 32.62 and 36.29 mg S kg-1) was recorded in the treatment that received 30 mg S kg-1 (T3) and it was on par with the treatment of 40 mg S kg -1 (T4). The higher exchangeable Ca2+ led to increase the S adsorption by CaSO4 bonding by the forces of chemisorption. These chemisorbed S was reversibly to release the labile pool by slow retention and also reactive surface of permanent clays would have increased the microbial load for S oxidation has improved the S availability 0.15% CaCl2 extractant provided the best index of microbial mineralisation of S in soils. The increase in available S with increasing levels of applied S and time of incubation. Increase in the available sulphate S in the S treated acid soil is due to the multiplication of S oxidizing organisms in the soils after the application of sulphur. The finding is similar with that of (Classon and Ramaswami 1990). In general, sulfate mineralization as measured in a 0.15% calcium chloride extractant was found to be more closely related to CO2 evolution. The higher correlation with CO2 evolution for the calcium chloride and sodium acetate extractable sulphate then for the other extractants show that the 0.15% CaCl2 should provide the better estimates of sulfate mineralized. Water soluble sulphur had a strong correlation with all the forms of sulphur (Borkotoki and Das 2008). At 30, 60 and 90th DOI. The highest 0.5M NaHCO3 (Sodium bicarbonate) was observed in the treatment that received 30 mg S kg-1 (T3) i.e. 49.20, 40.63 and 32.73 mg S kg-1 and it was on par with treatment receiving (T4) 40 mg Skg-1. Clear evidence was obtained for the presence of significant proportions of organic sulfate in soil extracts obtained with the bicarbonate extractants. No such indicators could be obtained for the 0.15% CaCl2 extract investigated. The good extractability of available sulphur by 0.5M NaHCO3 (pH 8.5) could be due to the fact that it extracts, in addition to the readily soluble sulphates, part of the adsorbed and organic sulphur. Similar finding by Kanwar and Mudahar (1986). The presence of carbon source is the main stimulant for the release of dehydrogenase enzyme. Dehydrogenase enzyme is responsible for organic matter oxidation in soil. The finding is similar with Ghani et al. (1990). Carbon –bonded S is comprised principally of amino acids such as methionine, cysteine, and sulpholipids (Neptune et al., 1975).\r\nSulphur transformation and its availability in soils depend on its various used of extractants. In order to judge the contribution of various extractants of sulphur towards the availability of sulphur in soil, it becomes imperative to work out the correlation within the different extractants of sulphur. The results of correlation among the different extractants of sulphur are presented in Table 6 and 7. The highest correlation of 500 ppm MCP was found between 60 DOI and 90 DOI (0.997009**), which was very closely followed by 30 DOI and 60 DOI for 0.5 M NH4OAc (0.980025**), 0.5M NaHCO3(0.996797**) at 60 DOI and 90 DOI, 0.15% CaCl2 (0.993437**) at 60 and 90 DOI. The significant correlation between different extractants of S suggested an interrelated dynamic equilibrium among different extractants of Sulphur. The results revealed that the inter correlations between the extractable sulphur by different extractants were significantly correlated among themselves with varying degrees. The highest significant correlation was found between 0.5M NaHCO3 and 0.15% CaCl2 (0.998325**) followed by 500 ppm MCP and 0.15% CaCl2 (0.991108**) and 500 ppm MCP and 0.5M NH4OAc (0.988751**) gave least significant correlations with other extractants.','Kasinam Doruk* and Indira Sarangthem (2022). Sulphur Transformation in Acid Soils under Closed Incubation Studies. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 14(2a): 131-136.'),(5124,'134','Comparison of Grafted Plants and Seedlings of Curry Leaf (Murraya koenigii (L.) Spreng) for Yield and Performance','Jones Ponraj A.*, Velmurugan S., Irene Vethamoni P., Subramanian A. and Pugalendhi L.','22 Comparison of Grafted Plants and Seedlings of Curry Leaf _Murraya koenigii _L._ Spreng_ for Yield and Performance Jones Ponraj A.pdf','',1,'This study mainly focuses on comparing the grafted plants with the seedling plants of curry leaf for better morphological growth and yield. It is important to study the variation between grafted and seedlings as there are several constraints in breeding programmes of curry leaf through seeds, it is important to know the performance of grafted plants so as to implement for further crop improvement programmes. To study the variability parameters, genotypic and phenotypic coefficient of variation, heritability and genetic advance which will aid in finding traits responsible for the variation between grafted and seedling plants. Different parameters were recorded in which all the traits showed greater PCV % than that of GCV % with a minimum variation which can be considered as the result of environment. Three characters fresh weight of leaf, dry weight of leaf alone and fresh leaf yield had higher GCV and PCV %. All the characters used in this study had higher heritability coupled with genetic advance except for average number of leaflets per compound leaf. From the mean data observed it is found that grafted (GSK) plants performed better for growth and yield. ','Grafted plants, curry leaf, variability studies, analysis of variance, mean performance','For the comparison of grafted and seedling plants, grafted plants along with a wild type and 11 other accessions collected from different localities were evaluated. Grafted plants recorded relatively high \r\nperformance to that of seedling plants. Different traits were also recorded for estimating the variation occurring between grafted and seedling plants of curry leaf, in which parameters viz., fresh weight of leaf, dry weight of leaf and fresh leaf yield per plant had high GCV and PCV. Heritability and genetic advance were also estimated for all the traits showing higher heritability and genetic advance except for average number of leaflets per compound leaf which had higher heritability coupled with low genetic advance. These genetic parameters were analysed for further supporting and strengthening the comparison study of grafts and seedlings.\r\n','INTRODUCTION\r\nMurraya koenigii (L.) Spreng has been placed in the family of Rutaceae. Its habit is a perennial shrub that can grow up to a height of 2.5 meters. It is said to be originated from Tarai a low land region in Uttar Pradesh. Cultivation is practiced in other countries also like Burma, Sri Lanka, China, Australia, and some of the Pacific countries. It is grown mostly throughout India, mainly cultivated in Assam, Bengal, Western Ghats, cochin and skim to Garhwal, and India leads as one of the largest importers, consumers and producers among the Asian countries. Curry leaves are traditionally used in the preparation of food primarily in Indian cuisine they have a very pungent and acidic flavor. They are also used for treating malaise of gastrointestinal problems as it can be used as an alternative to modern expensive drugs (Batool et al., 2020). Some of their beneficial utilizations are, can be used as a blood purifier, for treating stomach aches, and for adding flavors to most dishes made in India. The unique flavor and aroma of the leaves are due to the presence of pinene, sabinene, caryophyllene, cadinol and cadinene (Jain et al., 2012). The use of Murraya koenigii (L.) Sprengan attributable spice to culinary and pharmacology is due to the chemical constituents like quercetin, catechin, epicatechin, naringin and myricetin present in their essential oils (Lal and Kaur 2019). Leaves of curry leaf plant have 66% water, 6% protein, 19% fiber and other mineral matter (Joseph and Peter 1985). They are rich in calcium, phosphorous, iron and carotene. They also contain oxalates and phytate phosphorous. It grows well with temperatures ranging from 270 - 470 C, soil with a slightly acidic nature having a pH range of 5 to 7 is ideal for cultivation. Curry leaf is mainly propagated through seeds which are found to be poly embryonic in nature (Sivasubramaniam and Selvarani 2012). Variability arises from genotype to genotype both morphologically and chemo-typically as reported by Chittaragi et al. (2021) the cause of such variation may be due to their genetic nature. They are also propagated by root suckers which shows a low success percentage compared to that of the seed propagation method. Seeds are also considered as a recalcitrant type; they lose viability due to excessive drying and temperature below 100 C. With several knowledge in grafting done previously in curry leaf which showed a better compatibility when wild type rootstock was used (Sandhya et al., 2020). It is found that wedge grafting method showed the highest compatibility among the different methods of grafting with the treatment of IBA solution (Aswin Sakthivel et al., 2021). Now it is necessary to study the comparative performance of grafted plants with the seedlings of curry leaf. This study concentrates on identification for better establishment, faster growth with better quality of curry leaf among the grafts as well as the seedlings. \r\nMATERIALS AND METHODS\r\nThe experiment was carried out in Department of spices and plantation crops, Horticultural College and Research Institute, Coimbatore in the year 2021. The experimental design followed for evaluation of grafts along with seedlings was Randomized Block design having 11 accessions (SK-1 to SK-11) collected from different localities, one wild type curry leaf plant collected from forest area of yercaud (WSK) and grafted plants (GSK) (Table 1). The accessions and grafts were replicated three times in the field. Different morphological parameters were recorded from the plants and statistical analysis were carried out for finding the mean differences among them which can be calculated using F test, Critical difference for comparison among the seedlings and the grafted plants. The observed data were also subjected to analysis of variance for the following parameters plant height, plant spread (N-S), plant spread (E-W), number of compound leaves per shoot, average length of shoots per plant, average number of leaflets per leaf of a plant, fresh weight of whole shoot, fresh weight of leaves alone, leaf length, fresh weight of leaflets per compound leaf, dry weight of leaves alone, fresh leaf yield/plant. Additionally genotypic and phenotypic coefficient of variation were also analysed using the formula given by (Al-Jibouri et al., 1958). All the Statistical analysis were performed by using the statistical package ‘TNAU STAT’.\r\nRESULTS AND DISCUSSION\r\nThe genetic variability parameters were estimated through analysis of variance (Table 2). The range of variation in the mean performance of different traits among the seedling and the grafted plants are plant height 32.29 cm – 57.25 cm, plant spread (N-S) 27.08 cm – 50.96 cm, plant spread (E-W) 25.63 cm – 47.33 cm, number of compound leaves per shoot 20.01 – 35.91, average length of shoots per plant 25.43 – 45.36 cm, average number of leaflets per leaf of a plant 12.77 cm – 16.37 cm, fresh weight of whole shoot 47.38 g – 72.72 g, fresh weight of leaves alone 24.05 g – 57.90 g, leaf length 10.52 – 18.70 cm, fresh weight of leaflets per compound leaf 1.30 cm – 2.24 cm, dry weight of leaves alone 20.31 – 44.45 g, fresh leaf yield/plant 79.54 g – 300.79 g.\r\nAll the characters included in the study showed significant difference among the seedlings and the grafted curry leaf plants. From the analysed statistical parameters for the observed characters (Table 3), it is found that GSK showing highest mean performance for six characters among the 12 characters studied and considered to be superior to that of the seedling plants based on the analysed mean data, the highest mean performance for fresh leaf yield per plant were observed for GSK (300.790 g) followed by SK-1, SK-7 and SK-10. Plant height was maximum in GSK (57.25 cm) followed by SK-1 and SK-11. The extent of spread in north – south direction was maximum for GSK with a length of 50.96 cm but the spread of plant in east – west direction was maximum in SK-6 (47.33 cm). The number of compound leaves per shoot varied with different plants and was found to be maximum (35.91) and the number of leaflets were also maximum (16.37) for the grafted plants, which may contribute for the fresh weight of leaves alone and was found to be maximum for GSK (57.94 g). The mean performance of GSK was the highest for dry weight of leaves alone with 44.45 g. From the statistically analysed data for all the traits studied it would be concluded that analysis of variance showing significant differences with largest mean and variability contributing for the variation occurring between different plants (Lalitha et al., 1997). It can be stated that difference between phenotypic and genotypic variance observed would be due to the environmental factors (Ram and Singh 1993). \r\nEstimates of the genotypic and phenotypic coefficients of variation (GCV and PCV), showed that all the plants under study had a substantial degree of variance. All of the characters in the current study had somewhat greater PCVs than GCVs, but the differences were extremely small, indicating that the environment had less impact for most of the traits, considering superiority based on phenotype is therefore effective. Similar results have been reported by (Chittaragi et al., 2022). High phenotypic and genotypic coefficient of variation was observed for characters viz., fresh weight of leaf (22.29 % and 21.6%), dry weight of leaf alone (24.363 % and 22.421%) and fresh leaf yield (39.62% and 39.41%). Selection with these characters would be rewarding however genotypic and phenotypic coefficient of variation doesn’t provide vital information regarding heritable variation estimate.\r\nHeritability is the proportion of total variability that is due to genetic cause or can be defined as the ratio of genotypic variance to the total variance. It is a way to assess the heritable characters from the parents to offspring (Falconer, 1960). Among the 12 different traits studied, all the characters showed high heritability (Table 4). Genetic advance is the genetic gain under selection. Assessment of heritability when coupled with genetic advance are more useful in estimating the superiority and assisting in selection of elite types (Johnson et al., 1955). Expect for the character average number of leaflets per compound leaf (heritability- 69.13 % and genetic advance in percent of mean – 11.36 %) showed high heritability coupled with low genetic advance this result corresponds to the previous evaluation study carried out in curry leaf Shoba et al., (2020), which may result in non-additive gene action and selection for such traits may not be rewarding (Panse and Sukhatme 1954). All the other characters had high heritability along with high genetic advance, indicating the action of additive genes.\r\n','Jones Ponraj A., Velmurugan S., Irene Vethamoni P., Subramanian A. and Pugalendhi L. (2022). Comparison of Grafted Plants and Seedlings of Curry Leaf (Murraya koenigii (L.) Spreng) for Yield and Performance. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 14(2a):137-140.'),(5125,'134','Impact on Augmentation of Zea mays Flour on Growth and Monetary Traits of the Silkworm, Bombyx mori','Muzafar Ahmad Bhat*, Neha Khajuria, Suraksha Chanotra, Sumya Kapoor and Abdul Aziz','23 Impact on Augmentation of Zea mays Flour on Growth and Monetary Traits of the Silkworm, Bombyx mori Muzafar Ahmad Bhat.pdf','',1,'Sericulture is dependent on silkworm rearing and silk output is directly tied to larval growth and development. The goal of this study was to ascertain the effects of various maize flour dosages on the biological, economic and biochemical characteristics of the silkworm B. mori using 2 %, 4 %, 6 %, 8 % and 10 % concentrations of Zea mays flour. Lowry\'s method was used to quantify protein levels in samples taken from both Zea mays supplemented and control silkworm larvae of FC1 × FC2 hybrid strain. When compared to various concentrations of oral administration of Zea mays flour on the influence of the silkworm, B. mori, 4 % showed an increase in all the features investigated, while 10 % indicated a decrease in all the studied parameters. Following the oral administration of Zea mays flour, the bivoltine hybrid of FC1 × FC2 had a greater protein concentration of 312.89 µg/ml and a lower protein content of 250 µg/ml from 4 % and 10 %, respectively. However, the effect of 4 % increased practically all of the traits evaluated, while the effect of 10% decreased all of the characteristics but increased against control.','Augmentation, Zea mays, flour, growth, Bombyx mori','The present study suggests that the oral administration of Zea mays flour to Bombyx mori significantly showed uprise almost in all biological and commercial traits as well as in the biochemical constituent of protein content. Decisive increase in monetary characters was observed in treatment with corn flour powder. The analysis demonstrates the viability of corn flour treatment in silkworm rearing. As these materials are modest and matter-of-fact, they can be suggested for the farmers use.','INTRODUCTION\r\nSericulture is a technology-based art and science, primarily a village-based and welfare-oriented industry that contributes significantly to our national economy. With its agricultural and forestry foundation, Industrial superstructure, and labor-intensive nature, it is the quintessential cottage industry (Singh et al., 2005). Sericulture is based on the rearing of silkworms on mulberry leaves, and silk production is directly proportional to larval growth and development on mulberry leaves. Mulberry leaf output, both in terms of quality and quantity, varies owing to environmental circumstances and field techniques. India is the second largest producer and also the largest consumer of silk in the world due to development of innovative technologies in mulberry cultivation as well as in silkworm rearing. The greatest silk quality comes from cocoons of mulberry silkworm Bombyx mori larvae raised in captivity (sericulture). The silkworm (B. mori) is a lepidopteran insect that has a long history of breeding for silk production. Natural fibre, which is secreted by silkworms, is the queen of textiles, symbolising richness, elegance, class, and comfort. India is the world\'s second largest producer of silk and also its greatest consumer. The silkworm is a monophagous insect that relies on the mulberry for its entire life cycle. Silkworms, as a result, require variable leaf quality at different phases of their growth, emphasizing the importance of mulberry production practices. One of the most important characteristics of the silkworm is its capacity to convert plant protein into silk protein (Ude et al., 2014). Silk proteins can be found in a wide range of medical and commercial uses (Khyade, 2016; Ageitos et al., 2019). The silkworm (B. mori L.) is a monophagous insect that is crucial to the sericulture industry. Silkworm larvae commonly feed on mulberry leaves, which contain morin. The food quality or appetite (or both) of silkworm larval instars must be enhanced for higher silk production performance. Legay in 1958 revealed that silk production is based on mulberry larval feeding and nutritionally valuable leaves, which play a key role in the development of high-quality cocoons.\r\nSilkworm growth and development, as well as the production of silk proteins, require proteins. Free amino acids in bod fluid and amino acids produced in the posterior silk gland cells provide the amino acids, required for survival. The silk worm requires all ten essential amino acids for growth and development (Ito, 1978). Fibroin and sericin are two proteins that make up silk. Fibroin is at the centre, surrounded by sericin. These two proteins have different characteristics and are secreted from different parts of the silk gland. The silk gland\'s posterior section secretes fibroin, whereas the middle section secretes sericin. Fibroin is made up of amino acids made by the cells of the posterior silk gland. Sericin quality is one of the most important characteristics of cocoon. Between B. mori strains, the amount of sericin in the cocoon varies. The quality of mulberry leaves determines the amounts of these biomolecules. Proteins in the haemoly mph are more concentrated throughout development and can be used to make silk proteins. The purpose of this study was to determine how different amounts of maize flour affected the biological, economic and biochemical aspects of the silkworm B. mori.\r\nMATERIALS AND METHODS\r\nMaterials\r\nSilkworm strains: The UT Sericulture Department in Mendher, Jammu and Kashmir, provided the first instar silkworm larvae (first moult) silkworm hybrid strain of FC1 × FC2 for this investigation. The larvae were raised on mulberry leaves according to conventional practises (Krishnaswami, 1978).\r\nComposition of Zea mays: Maize has the moisture content ranging from 9.201 to 10.908%, ash (0.7-1.3%), lipids (3.21-7.71%), protein (7.71-14.60%), crude fibre (0.80-2.32%) and carbohydratess (0.80-2.32%). \r\nFood supplements for 5th instar silkworm, Bombyx mori. Using commercial Zea mays flour purchased from the market, several concentrations of Zea mays flour suspensions were made in distilled water. A known quantity of mulberry leaves (1 kg) were dipped in maize flour suspension, air-dried and fed to the experimental groups from the first day of the 5th instar until the end of the 5th in star. In each treatment, 150 (50 larvae each replication) were fed leaves dusted with flour at concentrations of 2%, 4%, 6%, 8% and 10%, respectively. One batch of silkworm larvae (150 larvae) was fed with regular mulberry leaves in three replications (control). Supplementing mulberry leaves with Zea mays flour was studied to improve the silkworm.\r\nAnalysis of biological and commercial traits:\r\nEffective rate of rearing (ERR). The following formula was used to determine ERR, \r\nERR=(Number of good cocoons spun)/(Number of larvae brushed )× 100\r\nLarval weight. On day 6 of the fifth instar, approximately 6 larvae were randomly selected from each replication and their weights were recorded.\r\nCocoon weight. On day 6, after spinning, about 6 cocoons were randomly selected from each replication and weighed.\r\nPupal weight. The pupae retrieved from randomly selected cocoons (6) of each replication were used to calculate pupal weight.\r\nShell weight. After removing the pupa from the randomly selected 6 cocoons from each replication, the cocoon shell weight was recorded.\r\nShell ratio. Shell ratio was calculated using the formula, \r\nShell ratio =(Shell weight)/( Cocoon weight )× 100\r\nProtein extraction. On the third day of the fifth instar, Zea mays supplemented and control larvae were homogenised separately in extraction solution (50 mM Tris buffer - pH 6.8) at 4oC. The homogenate was centrifuged for 20 minutes at 4°C at 4000 rpm, and the supernatant was collected for protein estimation.\r\nProtein estimation. Lowry\'s method was used to measure protein in samples taken from both Zea mays supplemented and control larvae of different silkworm strains (Lowry et al., 1951). The colour generated was measured at 660 nm after 30 minutes of incubation at room temperature.\r\nData analysis. Using one-way ANOVA and SPSS version 20, all data from three replications of different treatments were utilized to calculate mean values, standard deviations and significant variations.\r\nRESULTS\r\nChanges in the larval growth due influence of corn flour. The findings concerning larval weight were considered to be extremely significant (Table 1). 4% flour (3.49 g) had the highest larval weight, followed by 2 percent flour (3.47 g), 6% (3.29 g), 8% (3.04 g), 10% (2.87 g), and control (3.33g). Treatment 2 with 4 percent corn flour showed the most significant increase in larval weight, followed by treatment 1 with 2% corn flour (Fig. 1).\r\nChanges in the ERR due influence of corn flour. Table 1 shows the effect of mulberry leaves enrichment with Zea mays flour treatment on the average ERR. The ERR stands for the larvae that successfully spin cocoons. Surprisingly, the population formed from 2% corn flour showed a 92% improvement in ERR. However, the ERR was enhanced by 93.33% in the control, and the ERR was 90% from 4% corn flour, 87.33% from 6% corn flour, 86.67% from 8% corn flour, and 85% from 10% corn flour (Fig. 2), which is significant at P< 0.01.\r\nChanges in the larval mortality due influence of corn flour. The effect of mulberry leaves enrichment with Zea mays flour treatment gave lower larval mortality of 7.33% from 4% corn flour which on par with 6% corn flour which showed 8.67 %, 12.67% from 2% corn flour, 17.33% from 8% corn flour, 25.33% from 10% corn flour and against control (4%). The sensitivity of different instars larvae of FC1 × FC2 to different temperatures of corn flour is quite significant (Fig. 3, Table 1).\r\nChanges in the cocoon characters due to influence of corn flour\r\nCocoon weight. The cocoon weights also varied with the dosage of corn flour following oral administration. The highest cocoon weight of 1.69 g was observed from 4% corn flour while as least cocoon weight of 1.54 g was observed 10% corn flour. The cocoon weight of 1.63, 1.62, 1.54 and 1.51 g was observed from 2, 6, 10 % and control of corn flour following oral administration that is significant at P< 0.01 (Table, 2, Fig. 4).\r\nShell weight. The cocoon shell weight was also unequivocally affected as that of cocoon weight in control due to fluctuated environmental condition in the rearing house. As a result, the cocoon shell weight in control was 0.22 g. But, significant improvement in the shell weight was noticed from 4% corn flour. The cocoons spun by form oral administration of 2, 4, 6, 8, 10% of corn flour and control had shell weight of 0.30, 0.34, 0.27, 0.26, 0.23 and 0.22 g respectively (Table 2, Fig. 5). \r\nPupal weight. Interestingly, weight of the pupa, as an index of its growth, showed highest weight 1.35 g derived from the population from 4 and 6% corn flour while as least pupal weight of 1.31 g was observed from the 10% corn flour, respectively. Whereas, 1.33, 1.32 and 1.29 g of pupal weight was observed 2%, 8% and control larvae of FC2 X FC1 (Table 2, Fig. 6). \r\nShell ratio. The cocoon shell weight ratio was also correspondingly affected as that of cocoon and shell weight due to influence of corn flour on fifth instar larvae in FC1 × FC2. The cocoon shell ratio recorded as 14.79% in control, highest of 19.92 and 18.44% was recorded in the population derived from larvae of FC1 × FC2 HS due to influence of corn flour of 4 and 6% on fifth instar larvae respectively. Concomitantly, 16.67, 16.46, 14.72 and 14.79 % of shell ratio was observed from 6, 8, 10% and control respectively (Table 2, Fig. 7).\r\nProtein concentration in silkworm eggs at 35°C. The higher protein concentration of 312.89 µg/ml and the minimum protein content of 250 µg/ml was observed from 4% and 10% from the bivoltine hybrid of FC1 × FC2 following the oral administration of Zea mays flour. The protein content of 306.14, 291.86, 285.52 and 221.46 µg/ml was recorded from 2, 6, 8% and control larvae of FC1 × FC2 following the oral administration of Zea mays flour (Table 3, Fig. 8).\r\nDISCUSSION\r\nThese findings are important and necessary from the view point of silkworm rearing for commercial cocoon production as larval weight, ERR and pupal weight increases the cocoon weight thereby add revenue while transacting the cocoons in market. The results pertaining to larval weight was found to be highly significant. The maximum larval weight was recorded in 4% flour (3.49 g) followed by 2% flour (3.47 g), 6% (3.29 g), 8% (3.04 g), 10% (2.87 g) and control (3.33 g). Highly significant gain in larval weight was observed in treatment 2 with 4% corn flour followed by treatment 1 with 2% corn flour. The increase of body weight in treatment 2 may be due to the fortification of leaf with the feed corn flour supplement. These findings corroborated earlier research that suggested lactic acid bacteria could aid in the development of fruit flies\' immune systems as well as their growth and development (Nishida et al., 2016; Li et al., 2017). Similar results were reported by Mahmoud, 2013 indicated that the 5th instar larval fed on diet contained mulberry leaves with Corn flour gave the highest significant weights of larvae, silk glands and pupae. Significantly high larval weight (3.49 g), ERR (92%), cocoon weight (1.690 g), shell weight (0.34 g), pupal weight (1.35 g), shell ratio (19.92%) and total protein content of (312.89 µg/ml) were recovered in treated batches indicating influence of Zea mays on biological and commercial traits of the silkworm FC1 × FC2. Mihai Bentea et al. (2012) studied the effect of zinc supplementation and reported that the use of Zinc in silkworms has improved larval weight, serigene gland weight, cocoon weight and shell weight. The maximum dose of administration did not have any negative effects. Geetha et al. (2017) conducted the combined foliar spray of micronutrients (ZnSO4, FeSO4, MnSO4 and citric acid) on 5th in star larvae. Significant increase might be due to increased DNA synthesis in the silk gland or may be due to the general growth stimulatory effect of those chemicals on silk glands as indicated by Manimala (1995). The importance of these elements were indicated by Ito and Niminura (1966) as well as Horie et al. (1967) where they reported that it accelerated the growth of larvae. Hugar et al., (1999); Ashfaq et al. (2000) reported that Zn increases the weight of the larvae and sericine gland and reduced the mortality rate and the larval duration. During present study increase of larval weight was observed in treated batches compared to control batches. The data showed significant difference between treatments and their interaction in all the parameters. From the data it is evident that the larvae fed with the oral administration of Zea mays has got a profound influence on the growth of silkworms and inturn on cocoon parameters as well as in protein content which is proved by improvement in cocoon weight, pupal weight, shell weight etc., compared to feeding of worms on normal mulberry leaves. He et al. (2021) observed that adding lactic acid at levels of 0.01, 0.1, and 1% improved growth and the quality of female cocoons, resulting in greater larval weight and female cocoon shell weight than in the control group. On the other hand, 10% lactic acid killed the larvae by poisoning them and substantially slowed their growth. The cocoon shell as such contains silk proteins namely fibroin and sericin which are inturn made up of polypeptide chain of amino acids, particularly sericin, alanine and glycine. These amino acids are perhaps assimilated by the worms in the course of supplemented feeding with protein aceous source in the form of flour can be exploited to enhance shell ratio and shell weight. According to Vanderstoep (1981) germinated mungbeans, common beans (Matki) are associated with turnover of protein and amino acids with the greatest increase in glutamic and aspartic acids. These amino acids are necessary in silk synthesis. The Zea mays utilized in present study perhaps optimize quantity of nutrient assimilated which is channelized for maximum silk production by silkworms. Silkworms feeding on mulberry shoots fortified with the palatable nutrient rich source viz., protein, fats, carbohydrates, minerals and amino acids enhanced the cocoon characters. The total protein content of experimented. The feeding efficiency of the Spirulina supplemented group was significantly lower than that of the control group, according to Kumar et al. (2019). However, compared to the control group of silkworms, the experimental group\'s cocoon yield was noticeably higher. The results of this inquiry advance our understanding of enhanced silkworm nutrition and its practical commercial use in the sericulture sector. The higher protein concentration of 312.89 µg/ml and the minimum protein content of 250 µg/ml was observed from 4 % and 10 % from the bivoltine hybrid of FC1 × FC2 following the oral administration of Zea mays flour. The protein content of 306.14, 291.86, 285.52 and 221.46 µg/ml was recorded from 2, 6, 8 % and control larvae of FC1 × FC2 following the oral administration of Zea mays flour. The present findings are in agreement with the findings of Vanisree et al. (1996); Raj et al. (2000a and 2000 b); Manimsegalai et al. (2002) who reported higher cocoon parameters on soyabean protein supplement. Artificial diet containing wheat bran increased female cocoon weight of two multivoltine breeds (Nistari and BSRI-85/3) as reported by Sarkar and Absaram (1995); Nagesh (1998) reported similar trend on ‘Sericare’, and on cereal flour by Ganga and Gowri (1990); Vanitha (2006); Andal (2006); Sumathi (2007) respectively. According to Senthamarai Selvi et al., 2014, the silk worm B. mori dramatically increased morphometric parameters such larval length, width, and weight when exposed to MR2 mulberry leaves treated with a 25% concentration of Spinacia oleracea.\r\n','Muzafar Ahmad Bhat, Neha Khajuria, Suraksha Chanotra, Sumya Kapoor and Abdul Aziz (2022). Impact on Augmentation of Zea mays Flour on Growth and Monetary Traits of the Silkworm, Bombyx mori. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 14(2): 141-148.'),(5126,'134','Efficacy and Economics of newer Insecticides for the Management of Brinjal Shoot and Fruit borer, Leucinodes orbonalis Guenee (Lepidoptera: Pyralidae) in the Gwalior region of Madhya Pradesh','Sheojat, N.K.S. Bhadauria, Salil Dwivedi, Neeraj Kumar, Naveen* and Amar Chand','24 Efficacy and Economics of newer Insecticides for the Management of Brinjal Shoot and Fruit borer, Leucinodes orbonalis Guenee _Lepidoptera Pyralidae_ in the Gwalior region of Madhya Pradesh Naveen.pdf','',1,'The present investigation was carried out at the entomological field of College of Agriculture, Gwalior during rabi 2018-19 to study the efficacy and economics of newer insecticides for the management of Brinjal shoot and fruit borer, Leucinodes orbonalis Guenee in the Gwalior region of M.P. The study was conducted because due to the frequent fruit pickings in brinjal, the use of harmful conventional pesticides to manage this pest started to pose concerns for the environment, natural enemies, development of resistance, and pest comeback in addition to being harmful to customers\' health and environment due to residual effect of chemicals in the produce. The results revealed that all the newer insecticidal treatments were significantly superior in comparison to control. Among the treatments, flubendiamide 20% WG @ 300 g/ha was found to be most efficient as it was recorded with a minimum per cent shoot and fruit damage (0.31% and 11.77%, respectively) and thiacloprid 21.7% W/W @ 300 ml/ha with 2.87% shoot and 25.95% fruit damage, being the least effective. A similar trend was observed in per cent fruit damage where Flubendiamide 20% WG @ 300 g/ha was found to be most efficient as it recorded the highest fruit yield (583.70 q/ha) followed by emamectin benzoate 5% SG @ 150 g/ha (448.30 q/ha) and thiacloprid 21.7% W/W @ 300 ml/ha was recorded with least fruit yield (252.57 q/ha). The highest increase in fruit yield of brinjal among the different treatments during rabi 2019 over control was recorded in flubendiamide 20 WG @ 300 g/ml/ha (385.2 q/ha) and the lowest in thiacloprid 21.7 W/W @ 300 g/ml/ha (54.07 q/ha). Highest net profit per hectare among the different treatments, was recorded in flubendiamide 20 WG @ 300 g/ml/ha (Rs. 767656), followed by emamectin benzoate 5% SG @ 150 g/ml/ha (Rs. 496856) and lowest in thiacloprid 21.7 W/W @ 300 g/ml/ha (Rs. 105396). The highest cost-benefit ratio per hectare among the different treatments, was recorded in flubendiamide 20 WG @ 300 g/ml/ha (1:279.7) which was followed by emamectin benzoate 5% SG @ 150 g/ml/ha (1:181.06) and lowest cost-benefit ratio per hectare was recorded in thiacloprid 21.7 W/W @ 300 g/ml/ha (1:38.40). The study contributed that newer insecticides included in this study have best managed the brinjal shoot and fruit borer and hence produced the higher yields.','Solanum melongena Linnaeus, Leucinodes orbonalis Guenee, newer insecticides, shoot damage, fruit damage, fruit yield, economics','Among all the insecticidal treatments, flubendiamide 20% WG @ 300gm/ha was found to be most effective as it was recorded with minimum per cent shoot and fruit damage and maximum fruit yield followed by emamectin benzoate 5% SG @ 150gm/ha and spinosad 45% EC @ 180ml/ha. The next effective treatments included chlorantraniliprole 18.5% SC @ 55 gm/ha, Carbosulfan 25% EC @ 1000ml/ha, indoxacarb 14.5% SC @ 500ml/ha and thiacloprid 21.7% W/W @ 300ml/ha being the least effective.','INTRODUCTION\r\nBrinjal (Solanum melongena Linnaeus) also known as eggplant belongs to the family “Solanaceae” and is designated as the “King of vegetables”, having the centre of origin in the Indian sub-continent, Omprakash and Raju (2014). Being local to India it is one of the foremost common vegetable crops developed all through the nation. China is the leading nation of brinjal within the area and production all over the world. India is second in area and production about 730.4thousandhectare areas and 12800.8 metric tons production and 17.5 metric tons productivity. In India, brinjal is grown mainly in Bihar, Orissa, Karnataka, Andhra Pradesh, Maharashtra, West Bengal, Uttar Pradesh and states with coordinating climatic conditions within the tropics and subtropics. The area, production and productivity of brinjal are India- 7.1 Lakh ha, 135.58 Lakh MT, 19.1MT/ha; Bihar – 57,500 ha, 12.40 Lakh MT, 21.6 MT/ha. In Madhya Pradesh, it is grown in an area of 51.35 thousand hectares, with a production of 1073.63 metric tons (Anonymous 2018).\r\nOwing to the accessibility of the brinjal produce all through the year, this crop suffers very significantly from insect-pests damage. Brinjal is attacked by 142 species of insect pests, four species of mites and three species of nematodes in different nations of the world (Prempong and Bauhim, 1977 Sohi, 1996, Butani and Verma, 1976 Nayar et al., 1976). Brinjal shoot and fruit borer,Leucinodes orbonalis Guenee (Lepidoptera: Pyralidae) is the extremely severe, endemic pest of brinjal in India causing potential damage to the crop. Early instar larvae tunnel into petioles, midribs of big leaves, and delicate shoots; the usual symptom caused is a dead heart and plant falling. Later, they bore into developing unmarketable fruits. During its whole larval stage, one larva destroys four to six fruits. A fully developed larva makes an escape hole in the fruit before entering the pupal stage. According to Alam et al. (2003), the economic harm threshold in India corresponds to a shoot and fruit infestation of 6%. The caterpillar may be a profoundly damaging and cosmopolitan pest causing damage to 80-90% yield loss, Regupathy et al. (1997).\r\nTo combat the brinjal shoot and fruit borer, farmers are presently utilising a wide range of harmful chemical pesticides and spraying them more often. The foremost successful and cheapest strategy to manage this pest is to develop resistant varieties. Among the different strategies of pest management, the use of pesticides shapes the primary line of defence against insect pests. Due to the frequent picking, the use of pesticides to manage this pest started to pose concerns for the environment, natural enemies, the development of resistance, and pest comeback in addition to being harmful to customers\' health due to chemical residue in the produce (Mehrotra, 1990). However, it has been asserted that the next-generation biorational pesticide compounds are both potent and safer for non-target creatures and the environment (Sontakke et al., 2007; Misra, 2008). With a view on the climate change projections for India, an attempt has been made here to study the efficacy and economics of newer insecticides for the management of Brinjal shoot and fruit borer, Leucinodes orbonalis Guenee in the Gwalior region of M.P.\r\nMATERIAL AND METHODS\r\nA field experiment was conducted at the entomological field of the College of Agriculture, Gwalior during rabi 2018-19. An experiment was laid out in Randomized Block Design (RBD), with eight treatments including the untreated control and three replications. The plot size was taken as 4.2 m × 3.0 m. Thirty days old healthy seedlings of the Deshi variety of brinjal were transplanted in the main field with 60 cm spacing between the rows and 60 cm between plants. A standard agronomic package of practices was followed to raise and maintain a healthy crop. Insecticidal treatments mentioned in Table 1 were imposed when the pest population has reached its ETL. Further, the second and third sprays were done at 15 days intervals.\r\nFor the observations on the shoot and fruit borer, the total number of secondary shoots per plant and number of infested shoots per plant were recorded from 5 randomly selected plants in each replicated plot and per cent shoot damage was calculated by using the following formula. To avoid repetition in observations, the infected shoots were clipped off at each observation. \r\nPercentage shoot infestation = (Number of infested shoots)/(Total number of secondary shoots) × 100\r\nFor observations on percent fruits infestation, the fruits were harvested at fruiting stages and weight of the total number of fruits and weight of infested fruits per plant were counted separately and per cent, of fruit infestation (by weight) was calculated by using the following formula-\r\nPercentage fruit infestation (by weight) = (Weight of infested fruits)/(Weight of the total number of fruits) × 100\r\nThe weight of brinjal fruits at each picking was recorded individually for each treatment and the total yield was calculated by adding the yield from all pickings in each treatment. The yield was then converted into a per hectare basis. \r\nYield (Kg/ha) = (Yield / plot)/(Plot size) × 10000\r\nThe data on pest infestation based on calculated percentage were arc sine transformed by the method as suggested by Gomez and Gomez (1984). The data were then subjected to statistical analysis by adopting the appropriate method of \"Analysis of variance\" as suggested by Fisher and Yates, 1963.\r\nRESULTS AND DISCUSSION\r\n1. Efficacy of newer insecticides against Brinjal shoot and fruit borer.\r\nBrinjal shoot and fruit borer, Leucinodes orbonalis Guenee was observed in the field at varying levels and the damage symptoms and specimens are depicted in Plate 1.\r\nA. Percent shoot damage by Leucinodes orbonalis\r\nBased on the data presented in Table 2 and depicted in Fig. 1, the mean per cent shoot damage in all the insecticidal treatments was recorded as significantly less damagein comparison to control (5.08%). Among the treatments, flubendiamide 20% WG @ 300g/ha was found to be most efficient as it was recorded with minimum per cent shoot damage (0.31%) followed by emamectin benzoate 5% SG @ 150g/ha (0.53%) and spinosad 45% EC @ 180ml/ha (0.79%). The following effective group of treatments included chlorantraniliprole 18.5% SC @ 55 gm/ha (1.23% shoot damage), Carbosulfan 25% EC @ 1000ml/ha (1.54% shoot damage), Indoxacarb 14.5% SC @ 500ml/ha (2.05% shoot damage), thiacloprid 21.7% W/W @ 300ml/ha (2.87% shoot damage) and found at par with each other but statistically significant superior to control.The results are in line with the findings of Reshma and Behera (2018) who reported that flubendiamide 480 SC @ 78.70 g a.i. /ha and spinosad 45%SC @ 10ml a.i. /ha were proved to be highly effective against shoot and fruit borer in brinjal.\r\nB. Percent fruit damage by Leucinodes orbonalis\r\nBased on the data presented in Table 2 and depicted in Fig. 1, the mean per cent fruit damage (by weight) in all the insecticidal treatments recorded significantly lessdamage in comparison to control (40.58%). Among the treatments, flubendiamide 20% WG @ 300g/ha was found to be most efficient as it was recorded with least fruit damage (11.77%) followed by emamectin benzoate 5% SG @ 150g/ha (16.03%) and spinosad 45% EC @ 180ml/ha (18.02%). The following effective group of treatments included chlorantraniliprole 18.5% SC @ 55 g/ha (20.29% fruit damage), Carbosulfan 25% EC @ 1000ml/ha (22.22% fruit damage).\r\nTreatment indoxacarb 14.5% SC @ 500ml/ha with 24.38% fruit damage was found at par with thiacloprid 21.7% W/W @ 300ml/ha with 25.95% fruit damage but statistically significant superior to control.These results were strongly supported by previous studies by Singh and Sachan (2015) who reported that spinosad @ 200ml/ha was the most effective treatment for shoot and fruit damage in brinjal. Niranjan et al. (2017) reported chlorantraniliprole 18.5% SC was most effective. Besides these, Spinosad 2.5% SC and Flubendiamide 20 WG proved next to Chlorantraniliprole.\r\nC. Fruit yield\r\nBased on the data presented in Table 2 and depicted in Fig. 1, cumulative healthy marketable fruit yield in all the insecticidal treatments recorded significantly higher fruit yield as compared to control (198.50 q/ha).\r\nAmong the treatments flubendiamide 20% WG @ 300g/ha was found to be most efficient as it recorded highest fruit yield (583.70 q/ha) after by emamectin benzoate 5% SG @ 150g/ha (448.30 q/ha), spinosad 45% EC @ 180ml/ha (418.17 q/ha). The following effective group of treatments included chlorantraniliprole 18.5% SC @ 55 g/ha (328.50 q/ha), Carbosulfan 25% EC @ 1000ml/ha (322.27 q/ha), indoxacarb 14.5% SC @ 500ml/ha (322.17 q/ha), thiacloprid 21.7% W/W @ 300ml/ha (252.57 q/ha) fruit yield. \r\nThe present findings are in line with the findings of Khare and Sneha (2021) who reported thatthe brinjal crop was best protected against the brinjal shoot and fruit borer using Spinosad 45 percent SC with a fruit yield of 250 q/ha. Singh et al. (2021) reported spinosad 45SC @ 0.5 ml/l was the best with the least shoot (2.03%) and fruit damage (12.66%) with maximum yield (25.39 and 26.99 t/ ha), chlorantraniliprole and emamectin benzoate were the next best treatment. Shirale et al. (2012) reported Chlorantraniliprole 18.50% SC gave a significantly higher yield as compared to the plots (528.52 quintals/ha).\r\n2. Economics of the insecticidal treatments\r\nA. Increase in yield over control\r\nData indicated in Table 3 showed that, highest increase in fruit yield of brinjal among the different treatment during rabi 2019 over control was recorded in flubendiamide 20 WG @ 300 g/ml/ha (385.2 q/ha) which was followed by emamectin benzoate 5% SG @ 150 g/ml/ha (249.8 q/ha), spinosad 45% SC @ 180 g/ml/ha (219.67 q/ha), Chlorantraniliprole 18.5 SC @ 55 g/ml/ha (130 q/ha), Carbosulfan 25 EC @ 1000 g/ml/ha (123.77 q/ha), Indoxacarb 14.5 SC @ 500 g/ml/ha @ 123.67g/ml/ha and thiacloprid 21.7 W/W @ 300 g/ml/ha (54.07 q/ha).\r\nB. Net profit\r\nHighest net profit per hectare among the different treatments, was recorded in flubendiamide 20 WG @ 300 g/ml/ha (Rs. 767656), followed by emamectin benzoate 5% SG @ 150 g/ml/ha (Rs. 496856), spinosad 45% SC @ 180 g/ml/ha (Rs. 436596), Chlorantraniliprole 18.5 SC @ 55 g/ml/ha (Rs. 257256), Carbosulfan 25 EC @ 1000 g/ml/ha (Rs. 244796), Indoxacarb 14.5 SC @ 500 g/ml/ha @ 123.67g/ml/ha (Rs. 244596) and thiacloprid 21.7 W/W @ 300 g/ml/ha (Rs. 105396). The present findings got supported by Khare and Sneha (2021) who reported spinosad treated plot was Rs. 410000/ha. Shridhara et al. (2019) reported emamectin benzoate 5 SG higher net profit of Rs. 141884 ha-1. This was followed by flubendiamide 39.5 SC, chlorantraniliprole 18.5 SC and spinosad 45 SC registered net profit of Rs. 125604, 108179.84 and 71937.58 ha-1.\r\nC. Cost-benefit ratio\r\nHighest cost benefit ratio per hectare among the different treatments, was recorded in flubendiamide 20 WG @ 300 g/ml/ha (1:279.7) which was followed by emamectin benzoate 5% SG @ 150 g/ml/ha (1:181.06), spinosad 45% SC @ 180 g/ml/ha (1:159.10), Chlorantraniliprole 18.5 SC @ 55 g/ml/ha (1:93.7), Carbosulfan 25 EC @ 1000 g/ml/ha (1:89.2) Indoxacarb 14.5 SC @ 500 g/ml/ha @ 123.67g/ml/ha (1:89.1) and thiacloprid 21.7 W/W @ 300 g/ml/ha (1:38.40). The present results were supported by Kushwaha and Painkra (2016) who reported Chlorantraniliprole (1:5.48) had the highest B:C ratio, followed by flubendiamide (1:4.91), spinosad (1:4.65), and indoxacarb (1:4.65). (1:4.44). Kameshwaran and Kumar (2015) reported highest CBR with chlorantraniliprole 20 EC @ 40 g a.i./ha and lowest with indoxacarb 14.5 SC @ 75 g a.i./ha.\r\n','Sheojat, N.K.S. Bhadauria, Salil Dwivedi, Neeraj Kumar, Naveen and Amar Chand (2022). Efficacy and Economics of newer Insecticides for the Management of Brinjal Shoot and Fruit borer, Leucinodes orbonalis Guenee (Lepidoptera: Pyralidae) in the Gwalior region of Madhya Pradesh. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 14(2): 149-154.'),(5127,'134','Screening of different Brassica germplasm against White Rust Resistance','S.K. Rai* and Akriti Sharma','25 Screening of different Brassica germplasm against White Rust Resistance S. K. Rai.pdf','',1,'There is various diseases reported in rapeseed-mustard but white rust is one of the most important disease which is caused by Albugo candida. In India white rust causes a yield loss of 17-34 per cent. The present investigation was undertaken to study the different Brassica genotypes for white rust resistance in a group of 37 varieties/genotypes of Brassica juncea, Brassica napus, Brassica rapa (Toria). To exploit disease resistance genotypes for hybridization programme postulated on the basis of Disease severity score may be successful in the genotypes found from both irrigated and rainfed environment conditions. The lines shows Resistant to Moderately Resistant from both environment in experiment can be used as white rust resistant source for further breeding programme. On the basis of Disease severity score in case of B. juncea JD-6, B. napus CNH-11-2, GSH-1699, GSC-101, and in case of B. rapa (Toria) Tapeshwari were found more Resistant from both irrigated and rainfed environment conditions. ','Indian mustard, Rainfed, White rust & Yield','To exploit disease resistance genotypes for hybridization programme postulated on the basis of Disease severity score may be successful found from both irrigated and rainfed environment conditions. The lines shows Resistant to Moderately Resistant from both environment in experiment can be used as white rust resistant source for further breeding programme. On the basis of Disease severity score in case of B. juncea JD-6, B. napus CNH-11-2, GSH-1699, GSC-101, and in case of B. rapa (Toria) Tapeshwari were found more Resistantfrom both irrigated and rainfed environment conditions. These genotypes can be utilized for future White rust resistance mustard breeding programme.','INTRODUCTION\r\nIn India, rapeseed-mustard is the second most important oilseed crop after groundnut and shares about 28.6% of the Indian oilseed economy. Brassica juncea contributes more than 80% to the total rapeseed-mustard production in the country and is an important component in the oilseed sector (Vinu et al., 2013). Rapeseed and mustard are the major rabi oil seed crops of India. India produced 10.1 million tons of rapeseed and mustard in year 2020-21. The area under rapeseed and mustard in India is 6.7 million hectares, with a productivity of 1511 kg/ha during 2020-21. In the state of Jammu & Kashmir the area under rapeseed - mustard is 51870 ha with production of 59600 MT and 1149 kg per productivity during 2018-19. There is various diseases reported in rapeseed-mustard but white rust is one of the most important disease which is caused by Albugo candida. In India white rust causes a yield loss of 17-34 per cent (Yadava et al., 2014). The disease is characterized by both local and systemic symptom expression. Local infection appears as white or creamy yellow pustules or “blisters” on leaves and stem. Systemic infection results in abnormal growth and distortion of inflorescence and sterility of flowers, commonly called stag head formed as a result of hypertrophy and hyperplasia. The epidemic development of white rust caused by A. candida is dependent upon many factors, viz. aggressiveness of race, amount of available initial inoculum, time of first appearance of the disease and prevailing weather conditions. A. candida isolates from different Brassica species/cultivar or from different geographical regions may be different in their incubation period, latent period and production of sporangia and zoospores, pustule size, shape and texture and aggressiveness (Gupta and Saharan, 2002; Patni et al., 2005; Mishra et al., 2009). Pathogen (Albugo candida) produces white or creamy pustules on both cotyledons, true leaves and pods which reduces the photosynthetic capacity of plants and affects yield and normal plant development. Disease on the foliage affects and downgrades the leaves for sale and its human consumption as a vegetable. Disease levels on leaves through inoculum density affect the disease severity on cotyledon, leaves and siliqua. A lesion on foliage causes extensive distortion, hypertrophy, hyperplasia and sterility of inflorescences generally called “systemic infection”. The systemic infection phase increases fruit shattering and hence reduces yield of mustard. Disease assessment keys based on the host area affected have been prepared for many diseases. Charts for rating the different growth stages of rapeseed mustard are available.\r\nMATERIAL AND METHODS\r\nThirty seven diverse strain/varieties of B. juncea, B. napus, and B. rapa (Toria) were grown during rabi season of 2019-2020 in a randomized block design with 3 replications. The field experiment was done in two locations (irrigated and rainfed) i.e. Division of Plant Breeding and Genetics, SKUAST-J, F.O.A. Chatha, Jammu and Advanced centre for rainfed agriculture (ACRA), Dhiansar, Jammu for diseases severity of three species of Brassica was recorded in natural environment from both locations. \r\nWhite rust disease severity at leaf stages. Average disease severity on true leaves due to white rust was taken at 75 and 90 days for leaf and staghead but in case of toria it was taken at 35 and 55 days after sowing for leaf and staghead by using 0-9 disease rating scale as follows:\r\nThe leaves of five plants were randomly collected from each treatment and rated as per the above rating scale and disease severity was calculated separately from each treatment. The formula given by Wheeler (1969) was used to calculate the (%) diseases severity as follows:\r\n \r\nDiseases severity (%)= (Sum of all numerical ratings)/(No.of leaves examined×Maximum grade of scale)×100\r\n \r\nWhite rust diseases severity at staghead stage: Total racemes of five staghead affected plants and number of racemes showing staghead symptoms per plant were counted and staghead severity was calculated as per formula given by Wheeler (1969):\r\nStaghead severity (%)=\r\n (Number of racemes showing staghead/plant)/(Total number of racemes/plant)×100\r\n \r\nRESULTS AND DISCUSSION\r\nWhite rust symptoms for Brassica species at leaf and staghead stage were given in Fig. 1, and 2 respectively. To screen Brassica plants right from seedling stage to maturity against white rust disease caused by pathogen Albugo candida, the actual photograph based on 0-9 rating scale was conceptualized. The rating scale was developed from original field photographs with all above ground parts of infected plant viz. staghead (Fig. 2) and leaves. Disease assessment key was illustrated \r\nwith the following percent of severity: 0(No pustules), 1(Less than 5% leaf area covered by pustules), 3(5-10% leaf area covered by pustules), 5(11-25% leaf area covered by pustules), 7 (26-50% leaf area covered by pustules) and 9 (26-50% leaf area covered by pustules). The similar findings was reported by Bisht et al., (2016) conducted study of seventy germplasms of B. carinata, B. napus, B. juncea, and B. rapathe germplasms were screened out against white rust disease.\r\nWhite rust disease severity under irrigated and rainfed condition (E1 and E2): Under irrigated condition, the percent of disease severity of white rust on leaves of different genotypes of Brassica juncea, Brassica napus and Brassica rapa (Toria) was recorded at two stages of plant growth i.e. 75 DAS and 90 DAS but in case of toria it was recorded at 35 DAS and 55 DAS. In case of mustard, at 75 DAS, the maximum white rust severity for leaves was recorded in genotypes of RH-0923 (54.4%) and Kranti (56%) and minimum severity (leaf) was found in Giriraj (31.5%). At 90 DAS maximum white rust severity for staghead was recorded in NRCDR-2 (24.42%) and Giriraj (15.24%) while as zero severity score for staghead was found in RSPR-01, RSPR-69, SKJM-5, JD-6, RH-1209, RB-50 and Kranti. Under rainfed condition, in case of mustard, at 75 DAS, the maximum disease severity for leaves was recorded in genotypes of JM-12-6 (41.47%) while as minimum severity for leaves was found in RSPR-01 (22.72%). At 90 DAS, the maximum disease severity for staghead was observed in genotypes of NRCDR-2 (19.22%) while as zero severity score for staghead was found in RSPR-01, RSPR-03, RSPR-69, SKJM-5, JD-6, RH-1209, RB-50 and Kranti.\r\nIn case of gobhi sarson, after 75 days of sowing the maximum white rust severity for leaves was observed in genotypes of RSPN-28 (15.63%) and AKGS-1 (15.61%) while as minimum disease severity for leaves was found in GSH-1699 (4.82%). On the other hand, after 90 days of sowing, the maximum diseases severity for staghead was found in RSPN-25 (3.31%) while as zero disease severity score for staghead was found in RSPN-29, CNH-11-2, AKGS-1, JGS-12-3, GSH-1699, GSC-101, GSC-21, EC552608 and HNS-1102. Under rainfed condition, the maximum diseases severity for leaves was recorded in the genotypes of RSPN-28 (11.64%) while as zero severity for leaves was found in GSH-1699 (2.03%) these observations were recorded after 75 DAS and at 90 DAS the maximum diseases severity for staghead was observed in HNS-1102 (2.60%) while as zero severity score for staghead was found in RSPN-25, DGS-1, RSPN-28, CNH-11-2, GSH-1699, GSC-101, GSC-6, GSC-21 and EC552608. \r\nIn the case of toria, the maximum disease severity after 35 DAS for leaves was recorded in the genotypes of PTC-2010-2 (38.10%) while as minimum disease severity for leaves was found in Tapeshwari (11.43%). The second recording of disease severity for staghead was done after 55DAS from which the maximum disease severity was observed in the genotype of PTC-2010-2 (12.10%) while as zero severity score for staghead was found in PT-2012-2, RSPT-6, KBS-3, RMT-10-9, Tapeshwari, RSPT-2 and PT-303. Under rainfed condition, at 35 DAS the maximum disease severity for leaves was recorded in the genotypes of PTC-2010-2 (33.13%) while as minimum severity for leaves was found in Tapeshwari (9.21%). At 55 DAS the maximum diseases severity for leaves was observed in the genotypes of TH-1401 (8.14%) while as zero severity score was found in Bhawani, PT-2012-5, RSPT-6, KBS-3, RMT-10-9, Tapeshwari, RSPT-2 and PT-303. The other finding was done by Abhishek et al., (2017) he concluded that out of 30 genotypes of rapeseed- mustard were tested, none was found free to this disease. Some showed moderate resistance but remaining genotypes were found as moderately susceptible, susceptible and highly susceptible against white blister. \r\nDiseases severity reaction under irrigated condition (E1) and rainfed (E2) condition. All the 37 genotypes of Brassica juncea, Brassica napus and Brassica rapa (Toria) were categorized into different classes of disease reaction i.e. Highly resistant (5%), Resistant (5-10%), Moderately resistant (11-25%), Suceptible (26-50%) and Highly susceptible (more than 50%) according to the (0-9) diseases rating scale. \r\nUnder irrigated condition, in case of Brassica junceaNRCHB-101, NRCDR-2, RSPR-01, RSPR-03, RSPR-69, SKJM-5, JD-6, RH-1209, Giriraj, RB-50 and JM-12-6 were categorized into susceptible group with 26-50% of diseases severity and in case of highly susceptible Kranti and RH-0923 are involved with more than 50% diseases reaction. Under rainfed condition, RSPR-01, JD-6 was categorized into moderately resistant reaction with 11-25% of diseases reaction, on the other hand NRCHB-101, RSPR-03, RSPR-69, SKJM-5, RH-0923, RH-1209, Giriraj, RB-50, JM-12-6 and Kranti were categorized into susceptible reaction (26-50%).\r\nIn case of Brassica napus, under irrigated condition, CNH-11-2, GSH-1699 and GSC-101 were categorized into resistant group with 5-10% of disease reaction and RSPN-29, RSPN-25, DGS-1, RSPN-28, AKGS-1, JSC-12-30, GSC-6, GSC-21, EC552608 and HNS-1102 genotypes were found moderately resistant (11-25%). Under rainfed condition, CNH-11-2, GSH-1699, GSC-101, GSC-6, GSC-21 and EC552608 genotypes were found highly resistant with 5% of diseases reaction and RSPN-25, DGS-1, RSPN-29 and JGS-12-3 were found resistant (5-10%) and on the other hand RSPN-28, AKGS-1 and HNS-1102 were found moderately resistant genotypes with 11-25% diseases reaction. \r\nIn case of Brassica rapa (Toria), Bhawani, PT-2012-5, RSPT-6, Tapeshwari, TH-1401, PT-303 were found in moderately resistant reaction with 11-25% diseases severity and PTC-2010-2, BAUT-09, KBS-3, RMT-10-9 genotypes were found susceptible (26-50%) under irrigated condition. Under rainfed condition, Tapeshwari was found resistant genotype and Bhawani, PT-2012-5, RSPT-6, BAUT-09, KBS-3, RMT-10-9, RSPT-2, TH-1401, PTC-2010-2 and PT-303 were found moderately resistant. The white rust accessions were also tested by Yadav et al. (2017) they screened 2000 Indian mustard accessions against white rust and phenotypic evaluation of resistant accessions to assess the nature and magnitude of genetic diversity including their agronomic potential was carried out at three locations which showed the pathogenic variability under different locations.\r\n','S.K. Rai and Akriti Sharma (2022). Screening of different Brassica germplasm against White Rust Resistance. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 14(2a): 155-159.'),(5128,'134','Kernel Iron and Zinc Concentration in Maize Double Haploid Lines and their Bioavailability','Lavanya B., Ayyanagouda Patil*, Sudha Nair, Lakshmikanth, Prakash H. Kuchanur, Kisan B. and P.H. Zaidi\r\n','26 Kernel Iron and Zinc Concentration in Maize Double Haploid Lines and their Bioavailability Lavanya B.pdf','',1,'Micronutrient deficiency is one of the major widespread problem in the population caused by hidden hunger, in order to address these challenges various biofortification programmes have been designed worldwide. In this study kernel concentrations of iron and zinc were evaluated in two MPS population consisting of 193 double haploid lines using Atomic Absorption Spectrophotometer (AAS) method. Bioavailability of iron and zinc in these double haploid lines were found using the phytate concentration obtained through wade assay method. The Phy/Fe and Phy/Zn molar ratios in MPS 1 population ranged from 0.33 to 63.93 and from 0.53 to 80.99, respectively. In MPS 2 population Phy/Fe and Phy/Zn molar ratios ranged from 0.28 to 73.34 and from 0.30 to 83.80, respectively. According to the phy/Fe and phy/Zn molar ratios, the lines ZL19406, ZL19365 and Zl19412 were found to have potential for the development of cultivars of maize containing high zinc and iron concentration.','Iron, zinc, phytic acid, multiparent synthetic populations, maize','According to the phy/Fe and phy/Zn molar ratios, the lines ZL19406, ZL19365 and Zl19412 were found to have potential for the development of cultivars of maize containing high zinc and iron concentration and they could help in overcoming the micronutrient deficiencies in the population to certain extent and enrich the staple diet with nutrients. However, further evaluation needs to be conducted for the environmental effects on the availability of iron and zinc in different DH lines.','INTRODUCTION\r\nIron and zinc perform a variety of functions in the human body, and their deficiencies have serious implications that have a significant impact on a country\'s health and economic development. The development of an efficient breeding program to increase minerals concentration in maize depends on the presence of genetic variability in this species (Menkir, 2008). Iron deficiency, anaemia is the most common nutritional deficiency, affecting around 4 to 5 billion people worldwide, with high-risk populations including children, pregnant women, nursing mothers, and the elderly. Fe related deficiencies affecting the cognitive development, growth and reproductive performance. And there is a high prevalence of zinc deficiency, with billions of people at risk, particularly in developing countries. Zn deficiencies leads to impaired growth, altered reproductive biology and gastrointestinal problems. Mineral deficiencies have been reduced using the low-cost and very easy approaches such as the provision of medical supplements, food fortification, and post-harvest changes in eating patterns. However these approaches are not found to be reliable as they are not inherent. The nutritional value of selected maize varieties will depend not only on the micronutrient concentration in the kernel but to a large extent on the bioavailability of the micronutrients to humans after consumption. Development of micronutrient enriched staple foods through breeding techniques hold significant promise to tackle the problem of malnutrition (Banziger and Long 2000; Pfeiffer and McClafferty 2007). Biofortification is advocated as the most appropriate, cost-effective and sustainable intervention that has widespread coverage in minimizing nutrient deficiencies globally (Cakmak and Kutman 2018). \r\nMaize is the most important food and feed crop in the developing world; together with rice and wheat, maize provides at least 30% of the food calories to more than 4.5 billion people in 94 developing countries (Shiferaw et al., 2011). Apart from its use as human food, maize contributes significantly to the livestock-to-meat cycle across the world and has various industrial purposes, including ethanol and biofuel production (Prasanna et al., 2020). The concentrations of various nutrients in maize kernels depend on the genetic background or the genotype, agronomic management, interaction between genotype and the environment, and post-harvest handling (Ekpa et al., 2019). Analysis of genetic diversity in maize germplasm for kernel micronutrients and their potential for use in breeding programme assumes significance. However such studies undertaken in India were very few (Prasanna et al., 2011; Chakraborti et al., 2011; Agrawal et al., 2012). The present study was undertaken to identify the genetic variability for kernel iron and zinc concentration in Indian germplasm.\r\nMATERIAL AND METHODS\r\nA subset of DH lines derived from two MPS population was used for the biochemical analysis. About 193 DH lines were used for iron, zinc and phytic acid estimation. Out of 193, 101 DH lines were from MPS 1 and 92 DH lines were from MPS 2.DH lines were raised during summer 2020 and self-pollinated and the self-pollinated fresh seeds were subjected for biochemical analysis. The contaminants were removed from the field samples. The grains were washed for few seconds with flowing water in a plastic sieve and are dried enough using towel paper. The grain samples were transferred to bags and placed immediately in an hot air oven with forced air circulation at 80°C for 3-4 days. After drying, the grain samples were powdered using Willey mill (Marconi, model MA 020) with a 20 mesh screen. The powdered samples were stored in polyethylene capped bottles. \r\nA mixture of concentrated nitric acid and hydrochloric acid in the ratio of 9:1 was used for digestion. About 0.5 g of the finely ground seed sample was added to the 10 ml of acid mixture. The solutions were kept in the microwave digestion system at a temperature of about 180ºC and the digestion was carried out till a colourless solution was obtained. The digested solution was made up to 50 mL and filtered through Whatmann’s filter paper number 40 into a 100 mL volumetric flask to obtain a clear colourless solution. The colourless solution obtained from the digestion was analysed for estimation of iron and zinc in AAS (thermo scientific) and their concentrations were determined using standards. \r\nPhytic acid (myoinositolhexa-phosphoric acid, IP6) concentration was determined by modified Wade assay method according to Lorenz et al., (2007). Ten milligrams ( ±0.2 mg) ground whole kernels from each sample was placed in assigned wells and 200 µL of 0.65 M HCl was added to each well. The 96-well plates were shaken at room temperature overnight (~12 h) and then centrifuged at 3000 rpm for 20 min. Thirty microliters of extract were transferred to each evaluation plate, maintaining randomized sample position. Equal volumes of the phytate quantitative standards were placed in assigned wells. Phytic acid dodecasodium salt from corn (Sigma P-8810) and KH2PO4 (Sigma P-5379) were used for the phytate stock solution. Phytate standard was prepared by dissolving 10 mg per 1 mL of 0.65 M HCl. For the measurement of phytate, 200 μL Wade reagent (2.5 g 5-sulfosalycyclic acid, 0.25 g FeCl3. 6H2O, and 150 mL deionized H2O, can be stored for one month at 4°C) was added to each well and allowed to react for 15 min at room temperature. Absorbance of the reaction mixture was measured at 490 nm. They phytic acid concentration was determined by using standard curve. A linear standard curve was obtained by plotting the decrease in absorbance at 490 nm against phytate concentration. The value of the correlation coefficient (r = 0.9777) of the calibration curve represented a strong negative relationship between absorbance and concentration of phytate. As the value of absorbance increased, the amount of phytate decreased. The total content pfphytic acid in maize grain as determined using the linear equation, Y= - 0.103 + 3.3868.\r\nThe Fe and Zn availability was estimated using the phytic acid/Zn (Phy/Zn) and phytic acid/Fe (Phy/F) molar ratios, calculated according to the Equation 1 described below (Harland et al., 2004)\r\nMR= (Phy/ MW of Phy)/(Min/ AW Min)\r\nMR = molar ratio; Phy = phytic acid in the sample (mg.kg-1); MW Phy = phytic acid molecular weight (660 Da); Min = Fe or Zn in the sample (mg.kg-1); AW Min = Fe (56 Da) or Zn (65 Da) atomic weight.\r\nRESULT AND DISCUSSION\r\nThe zinc, iron and phytic acid concentrations of two MPS population studied are in Table 1. The ANOVA was significant and showed genetic variability between two MPS population for iron, zinc and phytic acid. In MPS 1, iron concentration ranged from 13.45 mg to 72.92 mg, zinc concentration ranged from 10.79 mg to 39.23 mg and phytic acid concentration ranged from 0.13 mg to 19.29 mg. In MPS 2, iron concentration ranged from 7.07 mg to 102.6 mg, zinc concentration ranged from 3.34 mg to 36.97 mg and phytic acid concentration ranged from 0.10 mg to 14.32. Prasanna et al. (2011) recorded the similar variation in a set of 30 diverse genotypes were evaluated for kernel iron and zinc concentration. It was found that kernel iron and zinc concentration ranged from 11.28 mg to 60.11mg and 15.14 mg to 52.95 mg/kg, respectively. Menkir (2008) in his study noticed analysis of variance revealed a significant variation in kernel iron and zinc concentration among inbred lines which was similar to significant difference noticed between the DH lines of two MPS population.\r\nThe obtained phytic acid concentrations in the study were in accordance with the findings of Mikulski and Klosowski (2014). They reported the concentration of phytic acid in maize ranged from 1.86 to 10.78 mg/g, which was similar to the range obtained by this study. The variability in phytic acid levels in this study corroborated the results of Chandana (2018), which reported significant variations among the genotypes similar to the DH lines from two MPS populations.\r\nThe Phy/Fe and Phy/Zn molar ratios in MPS 1 population ranged from 0.33 to 63.93 and from 0.53 to 80.99, respectively. In MPS 2 population Phy/Fe and Phy/Zn molar ratios ranged from 0.28 to 73.34 and from 0.30 to 83.80, respectively. The lines ZL19406, ZL19365, ZL19412 showed lower values for Phy/Fe molar ratio in MPS 1 population. The lines ZL19493, ZL19481, ZL19567 showed lower values for Phy/Fe molar ratio in MPS 2 population. Regarding Phy/Zn molar ratio best results were found in DH lines ZL19406, ZL19365, ZL19412 of MPS 1 population. In case of MPS 2 population, best results were found inZL19493, ZL19481, ZL19567.Abebeet al. (2007) found Phy/Zn and Phy/Fe average molar ratio of 35.4 and 27.8, respectively, in maize consumed in south eastern Ethiopia - values a bit higher to those found in this study. Queiroz et al. (2011) found Phy/Zn and Phy/Fe average molar ratio 30.2 and 28.95 respectively in 22 maize tropical inbred lines with different genetic background were found to be little higher compared to average molar ratios obtained in this study.\r\n','Lavanya B., Ayyanagouda Patil, Sudha Nair, Lakshmikanth, Prakash H. Kuchanur, Kisan B. and P.H. Zaidi (2022). Kernel Iron and Zinc Concentration in Maize Double Haploid Lines and their Bioavailability. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 14(2a): 160-165.'),(5129,'134','Identification of Sources Resistance to Leaf Spot, Powdery Mildew, Mung bean Yellow Mosaic Virus and Leaf Crinkle Virus Diseases in Black gram','A. Vijaya Bhaskar* ','27 Identification of Sources Resistance to Leaf Spot, Powdery Mildew, Mung bean Yellow Mosaic Virus and Leaf Crinkle Virus Diseases in Black gram A.Vijaya Bhaskar.pdf','',1,'Black gram germplasms were evaluated to identify the sources of resistance to leaf spot, powdery mildew, mung bean yellow mosaic virus and leaf crinkle virus diseases. Screening was done under natural field conditions at Regional Agricultural Research Station (RARS), Warangal, Telangana State, India. The experimental material consisted forty AICRP and twenty two state black gram entries with one check during Kharif-2017 and twenty five AICRP and sixteen state black gram entries with a check during Rabi-2017, which were screened against the major diseases at RARS, Warangal. Out of sixty four Black gram entries, five LBG 752, VBG 12-111,VBG 14-016,GBG-45 and DKU 87 were moderately resistant to Corynespora leaf spot disease, four entries viz., PU-31, MASH-338, LBG-752 and MBG-1050 were found moderately resistant to powdery mildew, forty three entries were found moderately resistant to mung bean yellow mosaic virus disease and MASH-338 entry was highly resistant to leaf crinkle virus disease. The study provides an evidence on the status of per cent leaf area coverage and disease severity index with germplasms of Warangal district in Telangana state, which helps in selection of resistant cultivars and developing multiple disease resistant germplasms in Blackgram. An attempt was made to develop host plant resistance through various screening techniques for these diseases as there is a gap still in the identification of promising germplasms against the leaf spot, powdery mildew, mymv and leaf crinkle virus disease in field conditions.','Screening, germplasms, resistance, diseases, Black gram','PDU-2-43 was resistant to powdery mildew, yellow mosaic virus and leaf crinkle virus diseases. IPU-94-1, KU-16-4, KPU-128-105 and MBG-1044 were moderately resistant to powdery mildew, yellow mosaic virus and leaf crinkle virus diseases. LBG-752 entry was found moderately resistant to powdery mildew and leaf crinkle virus diseases and IPU-2-43 was moderately resistant to powdery mildew and yellow mosaic virus diseases in Kharif season. TJU-262 and LBG-884 were resistant to powdery mildew and yellow mosaic virus diseases. LBG-20 was moderately resistant to leaf spot, powdery mildew and yellow mosaic virus diseases and Mash-338 was moderately resistant to leaf spot and powdery mildew diseases in rabi season. ','INTRODUCTION \r\nBlack gram is an important pulse crop of Fabaceae, grown mainly in Telangana State. Black gram is a rich source of protein food and it contains 26.2 per cent crude protein, 1.2 per cent fat and 56.6 per cent carbohydrates (Raju et al., 2019). The less production of Black gram is mainly due to biotic and abiotic stresses. Among biotic stresses, leaf spot, powdery mildew, mungbean yellow mosaic virus and leaf crinkle virus are major diseases in farmers’ field of Telangana State. Leaf spot severity in the wet season was causing 0.0 per cent to 100.0 per cent yield loss (Amin and Singh, 1987 and Grewal, 1988). Ambarish et al. (2021) stated that the Alternaria alternate is able to cause disease severity to an extent of 51.29 per cent in Guntur district of Andhra Pradesh. During survey, 60-70 DAS, the Alternaria leaf spot PDI was noticed range from 45.32% to 53.66% in Guntur district of Andhra Pradesh (Prathyusha et al., 2021).\r\nPowdery mildew occurs across India and Southeast Asian countries. It becomes severe in dry season causing 9.0 per cent to 50.0 per cent yield loss (Pandey et al., 2009). Depending upon crop variety and location, disease incidence of MYMV was from 4% to 40% in Pakistan (Bashir et al., 2006). In several cases, leaves and other plant parts become completely yellow and the losses may be as high as 100% (Malik, 1991; Bashir et al., 2006). Singh et al. (2000) reported an incidence ranging from 0% to 58.5 % among various varieties during their evaluation program for resistance against MYMV from Uttar Pradesh. Yellow mosaic disease (YMD) remains as most important destructive viral disease of black gram production in the Indian subcontinent with the economic losses accounting up to 85% (Kasirao et al., 2021).YMD is caused by a single stranded DNA containing begomovirus viz., Mungbean yellow mosaic virus (MYMV), which is mainly transmitted through whitefly. MYMV disease leads to severe yield reduction not only in India but also in Pakistan, Bangladesh and areas of South East Asia (Malathi et al., 2008 and Biswas et al., 2012) in Black gram.\r\nDepending upon the temperature and humidity, these diseases spread rapidly in susceptible varieties. Cultivation of resistant genotypes is an effective and cheaper method to combat the disease. Hence, several genotypes need to be screened to identify the source of resistance in Black gram. \r\nMATERIALS AND METHODS \r\nTrial was conducted in a Randomized Block Design (RBD) with two replications during Kharif-2017 and Rabi 2017 at RARS, Warangal, Telangana state. Recommended agronomic practices were followed.\r\nEvaluation for leaf spot disease, powdery mildew, mung bean yellow mosaic virus and leaf crinkle virus diseases in black gram\r\nSixty four Black gram and forty three black gram germplasms were evaluated during kharif-2017 and rabi-2017 respectively against leaf spot disease, powdery mildew, mung bean yellow mosaic virus and leaf crinkle virus diseases under natural environmental field conditions at RARS, Warangal. Germplasms were planted in two rows of 4 meter length with row spacing of 40 cm and 10 cm between plants. The trial was laid out in randomized block design with two replications. \r\nRESULTS AND DISCUSSION \r\nLeaf spot disease incidence. Leaf spot disease of sixty four black gram germplasms lines was from 3 to 9 on disease scale. Based on the mean disease incidence of both replications during Kharif-2017, one entry PDU-2-43 was moderately resistant; fourteen entries were moderately susceptible, remaining entries were highly susceptible to leaf spot disease (Table 1 and Table 2). \r\nLeaf spot disease of forty three four black gram germplasms lines was from 3 to 9. The mean disease incidence of both replications during rabi-2017, eleven entries viz., LBG 752, VBG 12-111, VBG 14-016, GBG-45, DKU 87, LBG-20, MASH-338, PU-31, NDU-1, PDU-2-43 and WBU-108 were found moderately resistant; twenty nine entries were moderately susceptible and remaining entries were susceptible and highly susceptible to leaf spot disease (Table 3 and Table 4).\r\nOut of 14 screened Black gram genotypes, one entry KUG 216 was found as highly resistant whereas three genotypes viz., BS 2-3, IPU 02-43 and B 3-8-8 were recorded as resistant to leaf spot disease (Jameel Akhtar et al., 2014). Total eleven black gram entries, only one MASH-338 was moderately resistant to Corynespora leaf spot disease (Vijaya Bhaskar, 2017). Reddi Gunasri et al. (2018) found that sixteen blackgram genotypes were evaluated, only one genotype LBG 645was moderately resistant, seven genotypes namely KU-15-6, KU-15-13, LBG 790, LBG 787, PU31, LBG 792 and LBG 791 were moderately susceptible and three genotypes viz., LBG 709, KU-15-11 and LBG 752 were susceptible to leaf spot disease.\r\nPowdery mildew disease incidence. Powdery mildew per cent disease leaf area of sixty four black gram germplasms lines was from 1 to 4 (4% to 75%). Based on the mean disease incidence of both replications during Kharif-2017, thirty three entries i.e. LBG 645, LBG 888, RBU-1, KU 16-07, KU 96-3, KPU 12-213, KPU 1720-140, KPU 12-1730, TPU 4, TU 94-2, TJU 98-14, RU 03-22, DBG-11, Pant U 31, Pant U 14-19, PU 14-28, AKU 13-16, NUK 15-09, NUL 242, VBG 14-016, VBG 12-034, VBG 13-003, COG 13-08, KUG 791, Barabanki Local, KUG 479, TBG-104, Pant-M-2, Pant-M-3, PDU-2-43, MASH-414, NDU-1 and WBU-108 were found resistant and remaining entries susceptible to powdery mildew disease (Table 1 and 2). \r\nPowdery mildew per cent disease leaf area of forty three black gram germplasms lines was from 1 to 5 (5% to 100%).Based on the mean disease incidence of both replications during rabi-2017, only eight entries i.e. TJU 262, LBG-884, MBG-1041, MBG-1045, MASH-1, MASH-414, PU-31 and NDU-1 were found resistant and remaining entries found susceptible to powdery mildew disease (Table 3 and 4). \r\nOut of screened 126 genotypes, none of them were found to be immune. However, three genotypes viz., LBG-17, LBG-685 and LBG-685×VT (F2-F3) were found to be resistant to powdery mildew disease in Black gram (Channaveeresh et al., 2014). Jameel Akhtar et al. (2014) noticed five genotypes viz., Pant U 31, BS 2-3, IPU 02-43, KU 323 and KU 99-21 were highly resistant to powdery mildew disease.Out of eleven Black gram entries, four entries viz., PU-31, MASH-338, LBG-752 and MBG-1050 were found moderately resistant to powdery mildew disease (Vijaya Bhaskar, 2017). \r\nAccording to Asif Hadimani et al., (2017), total 64 genotypes were screened, none of them were found to be immune and sixteen genotypes viz., BDU 3-22, OBG-647, BDU 3-23, BDU 3-2, KU-5-527, BDU 3-21, BDU-5, BDU-7, BDU-9, BDU-12, LBG-645, LBG-465, LBG-685 and LBG-20 were resistant to yellow mosaic virus.\r\nScreening of F3 progenies of 21 crosses along with 15 parents of blackgram was carried out against powdery mildew, disease score of genotypes range from 0-7 of powdery mildew was observed under field conditions (Silpa Chauhan et al., 2018). \r\nOut of 116 genotypes screened, genotype LBG645 recorded lowest per cent disease severity of 0.77 and was found to be highly resistant to powdery mildew (Priyanka et al., 2018).\r\nMung bean yellow mosaic virus disease incidence. Yellow mosaic virus disease incidence in sixty four Black gram germplasms lines was from 0% to 90%. Based on the mean disease incidence of both replications during Kharif-2017, seven entries viz., MASH-1, MASH-414, MASH-338, T-9, TBG-104, NDU-1 and WBU-108 were found immune, seven entries viz; MBG-1044, 1045, 1047, 1050, 1051, 1052 and PDU-2-43 were resistant and remaining entries were susceptible to yellow mosaic virus disease (Table 1 and 2). \r\nYellow mosaic virus disease incidence in forty three Black gram germplasms lines was from 0% to 85%.Based on the mean disease incidence of both replications during rabi-2017, nine entries viz., MASH-1, MASH-414, MASH-338, T-9, PU-31, TBG-104, NDU-1, PDU-2-43 and WBU-108 were found immune, twenty two entries viz., COBG 653, LBG 752, IPU 12-30, DKU 99, DKU 95, VBG 12-034, VBG 12-111, TJU 262, TJU 111, TJU 67, LBG 884, COBG 13-08, VBG13-003, VBG 14-016, IPU 12-10, GBG-45, GBG-47, OBG 41, OBG 43, DKU 118, DKU 87 and LBG 787 were resistant and remaining entries were susceptible to yellow mosaic virus disease (Table 3 and 4). \r\nOut of screened Black gram 45 genotypes, 19 lines viz., PU-31, PU-205, PU 1075, IC-1704, IC-11668,IC-37978, IC-49203, MASH-1-1, IC -6110, PDBG-10, PU-30, MASH-114, PU-35, IC-59702, TBG-104, PU-19, TU94-2, MASH338 and IC-14691 were free from disease with one score/resistant (Prasanthi et al., 2013). From screened 56 genotypes against YMV, 22 entries viz., PU-202, 205, 206, 207, 208, 209, 210, P-1051, P-1051, P-1052, P-1053, P-1058, P-1059, P-1060, P-1061, P-1062, P-1064, P-1065, P-1070, P-1075, P-715 and PU-31 showed resistance to YMV in Black gram (Obaiah et al., 2013).\r\nOut of eight genotypes of black gram, two genotypes viz., KU 323 and BS 23-13 were noticed as resistant to YMV disease (Jameel Akhtar et al., 2016).\r\nVijaya Bhaskar (2017) found that two entries viz., PU-31 and MASH-338 were found immune to mung bean yellow mosaic virus disease out of evaluated 11 black gram entries.\r\nHari Ram Kumar Bandi et al., 2018, Observed that out of 36 genotypes, only five PU-31, KUG 216 × PU 40, TU 18, KUG 216× SPS 5 and LBG 20 were observed resistance to ymv in black gram. \r\nSameer Kumar Singh and Singh et al. (2019), noticed that seven genotypes namely., PM-5,IPM 2K 14-19, IPM 306-1, HUM 2K-14-9, HUM-1, HUM-16 and PM-4 were moderately resistant YMV disease in black gram.\r\nOut of twenty genotypes, four genotypes namely RSU-03, TU-22, Pant-U-31 and RSU-06 were found to be resistant against yellow mosaic virus whereas nine genotypes namely Sarada, RSU-44, RSU-46, Sulata, VBG11-053, Goutam, TJU-24, KUG-725 and Uttara showed moderate resistance for Yellow Mosaic Virus disease in Black gram (Raman Babu Raman et al., 2019). \r\nAmong the evaluated forty eight genotypes, 14 genotypes were resistant to YMV in Urd bean (Tamilzharasi et al., 2020).\r\nOut of 102 blackgram genotypes, one VBN4 genotype showed complete resistance and 50 genotypes tolerant to YMV (Chippy et al., 2022).\r\nLeaf crinkle virus disease. Leaf crinkle virus disease per cent severity index of sixty four Black gram germplasms lines was from 0 to 3. Based on the mean disease severity index of both replications during Kharif-2017,one MASH-338 entry was highly resistant, thirty nine entries were found resistant, 21 entries were found moderately resistant and remaining entries were susceptible to urd bean crinkle virus disease (Table 1 and 2).\r\nOut of 16 black gram entries, one genotype (VH9440039-3) was found highly resistant and one ES-1 was resistant to ULCV (Muhammad Bashir et al., 2005).\r\nAmong evaluated Black gram 69 genotypes, four genotypes, KEU 16- 29, KEU 16-30, RUE-15-3 and TU68 were found to be highly resistant to leaf crinkle virus disease (Achanta Sravika et al., 2018). Out of 27 genotypes, CO 5 recorded resistance reaction, genotypes viz., APK 1 and Mash 1008 recorded moderate resistance to leaf crinkle virus disease in Black gram (Sathya Palanivelu et al., 2022).\r\n','A. Vijaya Bhaskar (2022). Identification of Sources Resistance to Leaf Spot, Powdery Mildew, Mung bean Yellow Mosaic Virus and Leaf Crinkle Virus Diseases in Black gram. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 14(2a): 166-172.'),(5130,'134','Evaluation of Novel Chemical Insecticides against Invasive Pest, Liriomyza huidobrensis (Blanchard) in Carrot','Rakshith V., M. Muthuswami*, A. Suganthi, T. Saraswathi and D. Keisar Lourdusamy','28 Evaluation of Novel Chemical Insecticides against Invasive Pest, Liriomyza huidobrensis _Blanchard_ in Carrot Rakshith V.pdf','',1,'The new invasive polyphagous leaf miner, Liriomyza huidobrensisis is affecting many vegetable crops like carrot, potato, garlic, pea and beetroot. At present, it becomes a major constraint for the cultivation of the carrot, Daucus carota because of leaf miner infestation. To attain the optimum yield, it is very important to manage the pest. The main objective of this experiment is to investigate the field efficacy of the novel insecticides like Cyantraniliprole 10.26 OD (90 g a.i./ha), Thiamethoxam 25 WG (50g a.i./ha), Imidacloprid 17.80 SL(10 g a.i./ha) and Chlorantraniliprole 18.5 SC (30 g a.i./ha) against the leaf miner in carrot. Among the various pesticides used, Cyantraniliprole 10.26 OD (90 g a.i./ha), and Imidacloprid 17.80 SL(10 g a.i./ha) gave the best result in managing the leaf miner when compared to other insecticides.','Cyantraniliprole, Imidacloprid, Liriomyza huidobrensis, Percentage reduction','From the above experiment, we found that both Cyantraniliprole 10.26 OD (90 g a.i./ha) and Imidacloprid 17.80 % SL are on par with each other in controlling leaf miner, Liriomyza huedobrensis in carrot. When we compare the percentage reduction over control, we found that Cyantraniliprole 10.26 OD (90 g a.i./ha) is superior to all other forms of treatment.','INTRODUCTION \r\nThe carrot (Daucus carat L.) is one of the key crops in India and belongs to the Apiaceae family (Umbelliferae). Its edible taproot is the major reason for its production. Carrots are well-known for their health advantages which are rich in carotenoids, vitamins and polyacetylenes (da Silva Dias, 2014) as well as their delicious and refreshing flavour. From the standpoint of a farmer, carrot is a less labour-oriented crop that requires less intercultural operations with high profit when compared to other crops. However, nowadays, biotic and abiotic pressures such as insect pests, pathogens, and other weather-related changes have caused a major problem for carrot cultivation.\r\nPests such as carrot rust fly, carrot weevil, cutworm, and leaf miner feed on a carrot, and they mainly cause the damage either by directly feeding on taproot or by damaging the leaves and stem. Among these, a leaf miner, Liriomyza huidobrensis (Blanchard) member of the family Agromyzidae and the order Diptera which is a serious polyphagous pest has been found in 365 host plant species from 49 plant families all over the world (Weintraub et al., 2017). This pest is now causing a major threat to the cultivation of carrots.The host plants are harmed by both larvae and adults. The larvae devour the mesophyll in the leaves, thereby limiting photosynthesis. Adult flies puncture the leaves for feeding and oviposition as well. Because of the large density of these stipples, the leaf surface becomes dry, resulting in lower yields of taproots (Bethke and Parrella 1985).\r\nThis leaf miner\'s pest status is a classic example of a 2ndary pest outbreak, adults developed pesticide resistance because of the indiscriminate spraying of insecticides against another pest (Weintraub et al., 2017). Unfortunately, due to a lack of prescribed insecticides for this specific pest of the crop, carrot cultivators are having difficulty in managing the leaf miner and posing a threat to crop productivity. As a result, it is vital to control these pests and safeguard that crop production is trouble-free. So, the present research aimed to determine the most effective new insecticide against leaf miners in carrots.\r\nMATERIALS AND METHODS\r\nCultivation of the crop. The experiment was led in two farmers’ fields at Elanalli and kookal village in The Nilgiris district, Tamil Nadu from January to April 2022. The carrot seeds of the local variety were line sowed, and after the germination, the required thinning of the crop was made to avoid the competition of the crop and overcrowding. Intercultural operations like rouging and weeding were done at the proper time. The field research was set up using a randomized complete block design with four replications and five treatments.\r\nChemicals and dosage. Chemicals that were utilised for treatments are 1) Cyantraniliprole 10.26 OD (90 g a.i./ha), 2) Thiamethoxam 25 WG (50 g a.i./ha), 3) Imidacloprid 17.80 SL (10 g a.i./ha), 4) Chlorantraniliprole 18.50 SC (30 g a.i./ha) and 5) untreated control. Each plot was 22.4 m2 in size. The spray fluid was made by calculating the amount of insecticide necessary, stirring in a little amount of water, and thereafter mixing the remaining water to make up the appropriate volume (500 L/ha). To spray insecticides, insecticides were sprayed using aknapsack sprayer during the early hours of the day around 8.00 to 9.00 AM. A total of two sprays were given with an interval of 20 days. After the arrival of pests, the 1st spray was applied (45 days after sowing).\r\nObservation recorded. The incidence of leaf minor damage on carrots was examined 1 day before and three, five, seven, ten, and fourteen days after pesticide treatment. In each replication, 10 randomly selected plants in all five different treatments were observed to record the pest occurrence. To determine the prevalence of leaf miners, the percentage of leaf damage was evaluated and a record of the dead and alive maggots inside the leaf mines was also observed.\r\n \r\nEach treatment plot\'s yield data was gathered during harvest time and translated to yield/ha to determine the optimal treatment over the untreated control.\r\nStatistical analysis. The acquired data on the leaf minor damage in percentage were subjected to an arcsine transformation. AGREES software was used to conduct the analysis. For each plot, the reduction over untreated control was calculated to determine the optimal treatment. Duncan\'s Multiple Range Test (DMRT) was used to compare treatment means.\r\nRESULTS AND DISCUSSION\r\nTable 1 shows the percentage of leaves damaged in the experiment field located in Ellanalli, Ooty. Before treating with Cyantraniliprole 10.26 OD @ 90 g a.i./ha, the per cent leaf damage was 32.57 per cent, after 5 days of the 1st and 2nd sprays the damage percentage dropped to 23.2% and 10.6%, then on the 7th day after 1st and 2nd spray the percentage damage has fallen to 17.02% and 5.7% respectively, then on 14 days of the 1st and 2nd sprays, the percentages dropped to 15.97% and 4.925%, respectively, and on 14 days after the 1st and 2nd sprays, the untreated control recorded 31.65 per cent and 36.06 per cent of the damage, respectively. It was followed by Imidacloprid 17.8 SL @ 10 g a.i./ha, which had a pre-treatment percentage of damage count of 30.25%. After 5 days of the 1st and 2nd sprays, the damage percentage dropped to 23.72 and 9.77% respectively, then on the 7th day after the 1st and 2nd spray, the percentage of damage has fallen to 16.325% and 6.6% respectively, and on the 14th day after the 1st spray, the leaf damage had fallen to 14.77 per cent, and on the 14th day after the 2nd spray, it had decreased to 5.925 per cent. Then on the 5th day of chemical treatment Chlorantraniliprole 18.5 SC (30 g a.i./ha) recorded a notable decrease in the damaged leaves from 30.025 to 20.22% and on the 5th day after the 2nd spraying it recorded 8.47% damage, then on the 7th day after 1st and 2nd spray, the percentage of damage has fallen to 16.775% and 8.025% respectively, then on 14th day of chemical treatment, Chlorantraniliprole 18.5 SC (30 g a.i./ha) recorded a notable decrease in the damaged leaves from 30.025 to 18.96% and 7.475% on 14th day after 2nd spraying. The plots which are applied with Thiamethoxam 25% WG 50g a.i./ha have also shown a substantial decrease in the damage percentage of leaf miner. On the 5th day after the 1st spray, the percentage of damage decreased to 25.1% from 30.25% and on the 5th day of the 2nd spray damage percentage reduced to 16.2%, on the 7th day of the 1st and 2nd sprays, the damage percentage dropped to 22.22% and 15.5% respectively, 14th day after the 1st spray, the damage decreased to 23.32% from 30.25% and on the 14th day of the 2nd spray, the treatment reduced the leaf damage to 14.9% from the pre-treatment count.\r\nTable 2 shows the percentage of leaves damaged in the experiment field located in Kukkal, Kothagiri. Before treating with Cyantraniliprole 10.26 OD @ 90 g a.i./ha, the per cent leaf damage was 31.775 per cent, after 5 days of the 1st and 2nd sprays the damage percentage dropped to 22.62% and 10.02%, then on 7th day after 1st and 2nd spray the percentage damage has fallen to 16.57% and 6.7% respectively, then on 14 days of the 1st and 2nd sprays, the percentages dropped to 15.05% and 6.27%, respectively, and on 14 days after the 1st and 2nd sprays, the untreated control recorded 33.3% per cent and 38.6 per cent of the damage, respectively. It was followed by Imidacloprid 17.8 SL @ 10 g a.i./ha, which had a pre-treatment percentage of damage count of 30.65%. After 5 days of the 1st and 2nd sprays, the damage percentage dropped to 23.5% and 12.6% respectively, then on the 7th day after 1st and 2nd spray, the percentage of damage has fallen to 16.325% and 6.6% respectively, and on the 14th day after the 1st spray, the leaf damage had fallen to 19.8 per cent, and on the 14th day after the 2nd spray, it had decreased to 6.62 per cent. Then on the 5th day of chemical treatment Chlorantraniliprole 18.5 SC (30 g a.i./ha) recorded a notable decrease in the damaged leaves from 30.025 to 24.1% and on the 5th day after the 2nd spraying it recorded 11.12% damage, then on the 7th day after 1st and 2nd spray, the percentage of damage has fallen to 21.17% and 9.27% respectively, then on 14th day of chemical treatment, Chlorantraniliprole 18.5 SC (30 g a.i./ha) recorded a notable decrease in the damaged leaves from 30.25 to 16.00% and 8.22% on 14th day after 2nd spraying. The plots which are applied with Thiamethoxam 25% WG 50g a.i./ha have also shown a considerable decrease in the damage percentage of leaf miner. \r\nOn the 5th day after the 1st spray, the percentage of damage decreased to 25.52% from 30.77% and on the 5th day of the 2nd spray damage percentage reduced to 19.5%, on the 7th day of the 1st and 2nd sprays, the damage percentage dropped to 22.6% and 16.45% respectively, 14th day after the 1st spray, the damage decreased to 22.15% from 30.25% and on the 14th day of the 2nd spray, the treatment reduced the leaf damage to 15.6% from the pre-treatment count.\r\nWhen we compare the percentage reduction of leaf damage over control, the plot that received Cyantraniliprole 10.26 OD (90 g a.i./ha) treatment had the greatest reduction in damage percentage (76.49%) and (75.29%) in Elanelli and Kukkal respectively. Then plots which were applied with Imidacloprid 17.8 SL (10 g a.i./ha), showed the 2nd-best result with a 76.20% and 72.95% reduction in damage percentage in location 1 and location 2. The next best treatments were Chlorantraniliprole 18.5 SC (30 g a.i./ha) and Thiamethoxam 25% WG (50g a.i./ha) with 74.94 and 54.86% reduction in leaf damage, respectively.\r\nA similar study was done by Misra (2013) in Odisha during the winter season, He evaluated the bio-efficacy of a new anthranilic diamide, cyantraniliprole against the leaf miner, Liriomyzatrifoli in tomato at the field level and he found a significant reduction in leaf mines per observed leaves by the treatment of cyantraniliprole (HGW86) 10 OD @ 90 and 105 g a.i./ha with a mean reduction of 83.95-85.54%.\r\nThe superiority of new anthranilic diamide, cyantraniliprole in controlling leaf miner (Liriomyza trifolii Burgess) in gherkins was shown by Misra (2015). In his experiment, the plots which are treated with cyantraniliprole @ 90 and 105 g a.i./ha have shown an 86.03–93.59% reduction in the damage of leaf miner.\r\nThe results were also in line with the studies of Variya et al. (2012). They recorded a higher yield of tomatoes when they treated the plot with Imidacloprid 0.035% against leaf miner (Liriomyzatrifolii Burgess). Sankar and Jayaraj also recommended chlorantraniliprole 18.5SC @0.6ml/ l against leaf miner Liriomyza spp in watermelon (Sankar et al., 2022).\r\nGraphical representation \r\n','Rakshith V., M. Muthuswami, A. Suganthi, T. Saraswathi and D. Keisar Lourdusamy (2022). Evaluation of Novel Chemical Insecticides against Invasive Pest, Liriomyza huidobrensis (Blanchard) in Carrot. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 14(2a): 173-177.'),(5131,'134','Survey on the Status of Post Flowering Stalk Rots in Telangana State','M. Bhavani*, B. Mallaiah, D. Bhadru, M. Prameela and S. Vanisri','29 Survey on the Status of Post Flowering Stalk Rots in Telangana State M. Bhavani.pdf','',1,'Post-flowering stalk rots (PFSR) are complex and one of the economically important diseases of maize. The PFSR incidence has been increasing in most of the maize growing areas of Telangana. A roving survey was conducted during Kharif -2021 for maize plants with typical symptoms of PFSR in major maize growing areas of Telangana state. Samples were collected from 30 villages in 9 districts. Disease incidence varied from 1.66 % to 48.52% in different villages. The maximum disease incidence was reported in Porandla (Thimmapur) village of Karimnagar district and minimum disease incidence was recorded in Appajipally (Balanagar) village of Mahabubnagar district. Pathogen associated in all the samples were isolated and morphologically identified as Fusarium verticillioides in 17 samples and Macrophomina phaseolina in 13 samples. The disease incidence was high in red soils compared to black soils. Hence, this kind of surveys help in timely identification of associated pathogen and take up necessary IDM measures to overcome the disease incidence.','Post flowering stalk rot, Fusarium stalk rot, Charcoal rot, survey, samples','The present study concludes that generally stalk rot of maize is present in almost all the surveyed maize fields with variable intensities. Karimnagar, Warangal, Khammam are among the predominant areas with respect to severity of stalk rot of maize. F. verticillioides and M. phaseolina are responsible for stalk rot of maize in Telangana. Therefore, similar kind of studies should regularly be carried out in different maize growing areas to assess the status of PFSR and making suitable management strategies for future.','INTRODUCTION\r\nMaize (Zea mays L.) is one of the important and third largest grown cereal crop in India after paddy and wheat.\r\nCurrently, nearly 1162.7 million MT of maize is being produced together by over 170 countries from an area of 201.8 million ha with average productivity of 5.75t/ha (FAOSTAT, 2020) accounting for ~9% of total food grain production. In India, it was cultivated in an area of 9.891 Mha during 2020-2021 with a production of 31.65 MT and productivity of 31.99 q/ha. In Telangana state, the crop is grown in almost all districts in an area of 259 thousand hectares with a production of 1756.57 thousand tonnes and productivity of 6782Kg’s/ha (INDIASTAT, 2020- 2021). In India nearly 61 diseases are infecting maize. Among them stalk rots are one of the economically important diseases of maize all over the world (Payak and Sharma 1985). Post-flowering stalk rots (PFSR) are complex disease, which are widely distributed in almost all the maize growing regions across the world. A number of fungi are involved in decaying pith causing pre-mature wilting of the plants (Shekar et al, 2006). In India three bacteria and eight fungi were reported to cause stalk rots (Raju and Lal 1976). Stalk rot disease caused by fungal pathogens are the most destructive disease of maize (Munkvold, 2003). Among all Fusarium stalk rot (F. verticillioides), Charcoal rot (M. phaseolina), Late wilt (Cephalosporium maydis) are more destructive in nature (Khokhar et al., 2014). However, predominantly M. phaseolina and F. verticillioides incidence were high in Telangana. Generally stalk rot occurs in areas where drought conditions prevails at or after flowering. The disease is favoured by high soil temperature (30oC to 42oC) with low soil moistures. In a field survey conducted in 2019-2020 in Telangana the disease incidence ranged from 27% to 76.8% with a yield loss of 30% (Mamatha et al., 2020). \r\nMATERIALS AND METHODS\r\nSurvey. The survey for stalk rot of maize was conducted during Kharif-2021, in 30 villages of 9 districts. Survey was typically conducted when crop was at physiological maturity stage and stalk rot symptoms were likely to appear (Kelly et al., 2017). In each village, five fields were selected with 10 km distance apart. Data regarding GPS, soil type, crop stage, previous crop sown, source of irrigation, crop variety, agronomic practices followed by farmer were recorded.\r\nSampling procedure. The disease incidence was recorded by enumerating the number of wilted plants out of total number of plants in a 4m × 4m area of the field at all the four corners and in the centre (Ramesha, V and Krishnan, 2017). \r\nDisease incidence percentage was calculated by using the formula\r\nDisease incidence (%)=(Number of infected plants )/(Total number of plants) × 100\r\nDiseased stalk sections were packed in paper bags, labelled and brought to the laboratory for isolation and identification of associated fungal pathogens. Diseased samples were examined under light microscope and infected stems with typical stalk rot symptoms were processed further.\r\nIsolation . The plants with typical symptoms were first washed with tap water followed by sterile distilled water. Three 5 mm diseased stalk bits were taken at 5, 10 and 15 cm from the first internode above the brace roots (Scauflaire et al., 2011). Diseased portions were cut into small bits of 3-5 mm size, surface sterilized by dipping them in sodium hypochlorite (1%) solution for one minute and then 3-4 bits were transferred aseptically to petri plates containing Potato dextrose agar (PDA) medium that was amended with streptomycin sulphate to inhibit bacterial growth and were incubated at 25 ± 2ºC in BOD incubator. The pathogens isolated from the infected tissue were further purified by single spore isolation method as described by (Ho and Ko 1997) and identified based on cultural and morphological characters.\r\nRESULTS AND DISCUSSION\r\nIn Telangana, disease prevalence was observed in almost all the surveyed villages ranging from 1.66 % to 48.52% in different districts. The highest disease incidence (48.52%) was recorded in Porandla village of Karimnagar district followed by Rajendranagar village in Rangareddy district with 42.42% disease incidence while the lowest recorded in Appajipally village of Mahabubnagar district (Table 1). The disease incidence was high in red soils (1.66% -48.52%) than in black soils (14-42.4%)under rainfed conditions than in irrigated conditions. Variation in incidence and severity of stalk rot disease at different locations might be attributed to variation in various soil and environmental factors, time of irrigation, rainfall, cropping patterns, variety grown, management practices followed in the locations (Doohan et al., 2003; Scauflaire et al., 2011). It was found that samples from Vikarabad (Dharur), Nizamabad (Morthad), Karimanagar (Kondapaka), Warangal (Kurchapalle), Mahabubabadh (Nadivada, Bayyaram), recovered F. verticillioides and samples from Mahabubnagar (Jadcherla), Karimnagar (Choppadhandi) reported only M. phaseolina isolate while samples from Khammam (Kothagudem, Konijerla), Karimnagar (Ramakrishnapuram, Porandla, Medipally), Siddipet (Pragnapur), Rangareddy (Rajendranagar), Warangal (Chagal, Dharmasagar, Velair), Mahabubnagar (Peddharevalle) reported both F. verticillioides and M. phaseolina indicating their complex nature in soil. Maize plants showing characteristic Fusarium stalk rot symptoms includes rotting that extend from infected roots to the stalk and causes premature drying, ear dropping, stalk breakage. Thus reducing maize yields significantly (Hooda et al., 2018). The disease causes internal tissue decay, vascular tissue discolouration, blocking translocation of nutrients and water and resulting in lodging and death of the plant and Charcoal stalk rot symptoms which ranged from seedling blight, rotting of stalk, roots and kernels. It produces brown, water soaked lesions on the plant roots which later gives black discolouration (Thahir et al., 2019). As the plants fungus spread into the lower internodes of the stalk, causing, shredding (Fig. 1), premature ripening and breaking at the crown. Interior stalks gave a charred appearance because of numerous black sclerotia in vascular strands (Fig 1) (Kaur et al., 2008). Sclerotia is found just under the stalk surface and also on the roots. The fungus infects the kernel by turning them black (Shekhar et al., 2006). Gum deposition was observed in the cortical tissues of roots were randomly sampled from each location.\r\nThese results are in agreement with the (Mamatha et al., 2020) reported that maximum disease incidence was noticed in Karimnagar district because of favourable conditions prevailing during flowering compared to other districts in Telangana. Also (Munkvold, 2003) reported that cultural practices and geographical location including tillage, planting date, crop rotation and fertilizer application also affect the disease incidence of all Fusarium spp causing stalk rot of maize. Also (Khokhar et al., 2014) reported that late sown crop and hot and humid weather favours the disease development more because of heavy inoculum built up in the soil and moisture stress during flowering period. Identification of these isolates were made based on morphological and cultural characters. The fungal colony of F. verticillioides isolates on PDA were initially white, cottony (Plate 1)which after 7 days of incubation at 28±2ºC developed pigmentation like pink, light purple, dark violet (Ayesha et al., 2020). The mycelia growth was observed 24-48 hours after inoculation on PDA medium in M. phaseolina isolates. Within 6-7 days, the colonies became carbonaceous, fluffy, brown to black in colour (Plate 2) covering the complete plate and numerous sclerotia developed throughout the colony with time. Based on morphological and cultural characters of both the pathogens they were identified as F. verticillioides and M. phaseolina. The morphology of the pathogen was in accordance with the description given for maize stalk rot pathogens by Iqbal et al. (2018); Abhay et al. (2020).\r\n','M. Bhavani, B. Mallaiah, D. Bhadru, M. Prameela and S. Vanisri (2022). Survey on the Status of Post Flowering Stalk Rots in Telangana State. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 14(2a): 178-183.'),(5132,'134','Leaf Colour Chart (LCC) based nano urea fertilization in Maize (Zea mays L.)','Cheenu Kashyap and S. P. Bainade','30 Leaf Colour Chart _LCC_ based nano urea fertilization in Maize _Zea mays L._ Cheenu Kashyap.pdf','',1,'A field experiment was conducted during Kharif season 2021 on sandy loam soil at the experimental farm of the school of Lovely professional university, Phagwara, Punjab to find out the suitable dose of nano urea for Kharif maize. Treatment consists of twelve treatments. The soil was a sandy clay loam with a pH of 8.19, which indicates a perhaps alkaline response. It had low levels of readily accessible potassium and nitrogen and medium phosphate levels.\r\nThe experiment was conducted in RBD (Randomized block design) with twelve treatments and three replications viz., T1: Absolute control, T2: 2% urea spray, T3: 100% RDF (125: 60: 30 kg N: P2O5: K2O), T4: Leaf colour chart threshold 3 with nano urea spray @ 2 ml/l, T5: Leaf colour chart threshold 3 with nano urea spray @ 4 ml/l, T6: Leaf colour chart threshold 3 with nano urea spray @ 6 ml/l, T7: Leaf colour chart threshold 4 with nano urea spray @ 2 ml/l, T8: Leaf colour chart threshold 4 with nano urea spray @ 4 ml/l, T9: Leaf colour chart threshold 4 with nano urea spray @ 6 ml/l, T10: Leaf colour chart threshold 5 with nano urea spray @ 2 ml/l, T11: Leaf colour chart threshold 5 with nano urea spray @ 4 ml/l, T12- Leaf colour chart threshold 5 with nano urea spray @ 6 ml/l.\r\nThe study\'s results indicated that application of T12: Leaf colour chart threshold 5 with nano urea spray @ 6 ml/l recorded higher growth, yield attributing characters, quality, gross monetary, net monetary return and B: C ratio respectively.\r\nExcessive use of conventional urea to grow food damages the environment. The damage is in the form of degraded soil quality that adversely impacts on the climate and contributes to global warming. IFFCO has developed a nanotechnology-based Nano Urea (liquid) fertilizer that offers solutions to most of the problems with conventional urea. Foliar application of Nano Urea (liquid) at critical crop growth stages of a plant effectively fulfils its nitrogen requirement and leads to higher crop productivity in comparison to conventional urea.\r\n','Solanum melongena Linnaeus, Leucinodes orbonalis Guenee, newer insecticides, shoot damage, fruit damage, fruit yield, economics','According to a year\'s worth of research, the following conclusions are made:\r\nFor enhancing maize development, yield qualities, and yield, foliar application of leaf colour chart threshold 5 with nano urea spray @ 6 ml/l was shown to be advantageous and productive. In order to increase yield qualities such as grain yield, gross monetary, net monetary returns, and B: C ratio of maize, foliar application of leaf colour chart threshold 5 with nano urea spray @ 6 ml/l was shown to be successful.\r\nCompared to other foliar applications of nano urea, the foliar treatment of leaf colour chart threshold 5 with nano urea spray @ 6 ml/l was extremely productive, economical, and rewarding.\r\n','INTRODUCTION \r\nDue to expanding demand in the livestock and poultry industries, a growing non-vegetarian population, and altered eating habits, maize consumption in India is predicted to increase further. It will be challenging to increase maize output in India\'s growing areas in the coming years in the face of rising demand in the era of climate change. This difficulty could only be met by science-based technological interventions, such as single cross hybrid technology and the use of innovative molecular tools and techniques in maize development. In Kharif 2021-22, maize production was 21.24 million tonnes in an area of 8.15 million hectares (www.angaru.ac.in). Kaviani et al. (2016) experimented on the effect of different concentrations of nitrogen nano fertilizers on improving the quality of ornamental plants box trees (Buxus Hyrcania Pojark.) in Iran. The treatments were 0.00, 0.60, 1.20, 1.80, 2.40, and 3.00 g pot-1 drench and 0.00, 1.00, 2.00, 3.00, 4.00, and 5.00 g leaf spray of biologic nitrogen nano fertilisers. Plants fed with a 3.00 g pot one drench +2.00 g spray of nano fertilizer specialized for ornamental plants had the highest node number (19.33), root length (6.83 cm), leaf number (133.30), and proliferation rate (133.53). When compared to the many others, the highest shoot number (8.63), root number (7.63), and root volume (163.00 ml).\r\nThe leaf colour chart (LCC) is an innovative and economical method for crop-need-based N management in rice, maize, and wheat. Compared to a chlorophyll metre or a SPAD metre, the LCC is a less costly, simpler to use, and more accurate visual and subjective assessment of plant nitrogen shortage (soil plant analysis development).It controls the intensity of the leaf\'s colour, which is related to the leaf\'s nitrogen content (Rostami et al., 2017). LCC is a valuable method to improve N usage in rice, maize, and wheat at high yield levels, regardless of the type of N given, such as organic manure, biologically fixed N, or chemical fertilisers. Farmers may use it as an eco-friendly tool (Mahil and kumar 2019). Elanchezhian et al. (1997) conducted by them to know the physiological and biochemical responses of maize plants fertilized with nano-iron micronutrient. Plants fertilized with the optimal recommended dose of Fe in the nano-form registered as enhancement in morphological features, plant biomass such as root and shoot and diminution in antioxidant enzyme activities than the plants fertilized with the sub-optimal dose of Fe in the macro form. Half of the recommended dosage of Fe in the nano-form positively influenced leaf area and proline content of plants too. This indicated that there is a possibility of reducing the dose of Fe supplement for plants in the nano-form to increase the nutrient use efficiency in a significant cereal crop like Maize. \r\nMATERIAL AND METHODS\r\nA field trial was conducted at the school of Agriculture, Lovely Professional University, Phagwara during 2020-21 seasons. The site of the experiment was sandy clay loam with slightly alkaline Ph of 8.19. The available nitrogen was in the range of medium (314.66 kg ha-1), P2O5 was medium (13.14 kg ha-1) and K2O was medium (163.77 kg ha-1).\r\nThe experiment was laid out in a randomized block design consisting twelve treatments foliar application of nano urea viz.,T1: Absolute control, T2: 2% urea spray, T3: 100% RDF (125: 60: 30 kg N: P2O5: K2O), T4: Leaf colour chart threshold 3 with nano urea spray @ 2 ml/l,T5: Leaf colour chart threshold 3 with nano urea spray @ 4 ml/l, T6: Leaf colour chart threshold 3 with nano urea spray @ 6 ml/l,T7: Leaf colour chart threshold 4 with nano urea spray @ 2 ml/l,T8: Leaf colour chart threshold 4 with nano urea spray @ 4 ml/l, T9: Leaf colour chart threshold 4 with nano urea spray @ 6 ml/l, T10: Leaf colour chart threshold 5 with nano urea spray @ 2 ml/l,T11: Leaf colour chart threshold 5 with nano urea spray @ 4 ml/l, T12: Leaf colour chart threshold 5 with nano urea spray @ 6 ml/l.\r\nThe crop variety DKC 9164 was used with a spacing of 60 cm x 20 cm. gross plot size was 5m × 4 m. Full dose of Phosphorus and potassium applied at the time of sowing as basal dose and N was applied through nano urea spray at 25 DAS. In order to represent the plot, five plants of maize from each net plot were selected randomly viz.,\r\nPlant height, number of leaves plant-1, leaf area plant-1, leaf area index, leaf length, leaf width recorded at 30, 60, 90 DAS and at harvest and yield contributing characters viz., No. of cobs plant-1, number of grains cob-1, no. of rows cob-1, weight of 100 seeds (g), grain yield (kg ha-1), straw yield (kg ha-1) were also observed at harvest. The gross, net monetary returns and B: C ratios were calculated. The data were analysed as per the method suggested by Panase and Sukhatme (1971). \r\nRESULTS AND DISCUSSION \r\nA. Effect on growth attributes\r\nThe data about various crop growth attributes studied viz., plant height, number of leaves plant-1, leaf area plant-1, leaf area index, leaf length, leaf width at harvest were recorded as influenced by various treatments are presented in Table 1. \r\nPlant height (cm), number of leaves plant-1, leaf area plant-1, leaf length, leaf width were significantly increased due to foliar spray of leaf colour chart threshold 5 with nano urea spray @ 6 ml/l at statistically at par with LCC threshold 4 with nano urea spray @ 6 ml/l and at 30, 60, 90 DAS and harvest leaf colour chart threshold 3 with nano urea spray @ 6 ml/l. The influence of nitrogen on the metabolism of developing plants may explain the increase in plant height (cm), number of leaves per plant-1, leaf length, and leaf breadth seen in maize following application of nano urea. It is closely associated with cell division, growth, and elongation, as well as rapid root development and chlorophyll creation, which increases photosynthesis. Similar result was observed by Kaviani et al. (2016). According to Manikandan and Subramanian (2016), nano urea with zeolite fusing increased plant height significantly, especially during the crop\'s active development stage (60 & 90 DAS). The plant\'s height was used to gauge growth and fluctuated based on the type of fertiliser employed. The root length of plants fertilised with nano-urea was 9.1% greater than the root length of control plants, and nano-urea fertilisation increased root length by 23.8% more than plants fertilised with urea. According to Singh et al. (2019), nanourea 6ml/l foliar spray improved maize plant height (cm) and leaf output. This might be due to increasing dose of nano urea increase cell division, cell metabolism and growth of cells.\r\nB. Effect on yield attributes and yield\r\nTable 1 contains information about the number of cobs plant-1, the number of grains cob-1, the number of rows cob-1, the test weight (g), the seed yield (kg ha-1), and the straw yield (kg ha-1) as impacted by various treatments.\r\nThe number of cobs plant-1, the number of grains cob-1, the number of rows cob-1, the test weight (g), the seed yield (kg ha-1), and the straw yield (kg ha-1) were all affected by the various treatments at harvest. Significantly increased levels of leaf colour chart threshold 5 with nano urea spray @ 6 ml/l (T12) Number of cobs plant-1, number of grains cob-1, test weight (g), seed yield (kg ha-1), and straw yield (kg ha-1) were shown to be statistically equivalent to leaf colour chart thresholds 4 and 3 with nano urea spray at 6 ml/l (T9) and other treatments (T6).This might be due to higher production of photosynthates because of more number of leaves and leaf area (dm2) plant-1 of maize and adequate availability of moisture and nutrients throughout the growing season may be the reason behind this. Nano Urea (liquid) is a source of nitrogen which is an essential nutrient required for proper growth and development of a plant. Nitrogen is a crucial constituent of amino acids, enzymes, genetic materials (DNA-RNA), photosynthetic pigments (chlorophyll)and energy transfer compounds (ATP-ADP) in a plant. A similar result recorded by Rajonee (2016) indicated that, reported that number of cobs plant-1, number of grains cob-1 and 100 seed weight were more in nano urea than commercial urea. Higher grain yield might be due to greater availability of nutrients and plant metabolism which in turn produced higher seed yield. \r\nC. Economic studies\r\nTable 1 indicated data on GMR, NMR, and B:C ratio influenced by different nano urea treatments.\r\nApplication of LCC threshold 5 with nano urea spray @ 6 ml/l (T12) recorded significantly higher value of GMR (Rs. 60075 ha-1), NMR (Rs. 32275 ha-1) and B: C ratio (2.16) compared to all other treatments. Higher gross, net monetary returns and B: C ratio with higher concentration of nano urea may be due to the increased total grain and straw yield. Similar findings were also reported by Mathukia (2014).\r\n','Cheenu Kashyap and S. P. Bainade (2022). Leaf Colour Chart (LCC) based nano urea fertilization in Maize (Zea mays L.). Biological Forum – An International Journal, 14(2a): 184-187.'),(5133,'134','Evaluation of Feeding Potential and Prey Preference of Chrysoperla zastrowi sillemi (Esben - Peterson) on different Aphid Species','Thounaojam Sheileja*, T. Uma Maheswari and Tourangbam Shantibala','31 Evaluation of Feeding Potential and Prey Preference of Chrysoperla zastrowi sillemi _Esben - Peterson_ on different Aphid Species Thounaojam Sheileja.pdf','',1,'The feeding potential and prey preference of Chrysoperla zastrowi sillemi among four different aphid species was conducted under laboratory condition at AICRP on Biological Control of Crop Pests, College of Agriculture, Rajendranagar, Hyderabad and the observation showed prey preference in the order of Aphis craccivora followed by Aphis gossypii, Rhopalosiphum maidis and Lipaphis erysimi, exhibiting total aphids consumption throughout the larval period as 445.2± 6.21 of A. craccivora; 309.2 ± 8.11 of A. gossypii; 197.6 ± 5.99 of R. maidis and 130 ± 4.49 of L. erysimi. Aphid mean consumption rate of I and II instar larva was 52.4 ± 0.68 and 122.0± 2.21 (A. craccivora), 23.0 ± 1.00 80.6 ± 4.24 (A. gossypii), 14.4 ± 0.87 62.4 ± 3.4 (R. maidis), 8.2 ± 0.66 41.6 ± 2.06 (L. erysimi), respectively. The III instar larva exhibited aphid predation rate of 270.8 ± 3.32 (A. craccivora), 205.6 ± 2.87 (A. gossypii), 120.8 ± 1.72 (R. maidis) and 80.2 ± 1.77 (L. erysimi) indicating its high predation potential during III instar stage.','Chrysoperla zastrowi sillemi, chrysopidae, aphididae, feeding potential, biological control','Study of prey preference of C. zastrowi sillemi among four different aphid species exhibited an order of preference i.e., Aphis craccivora>Aphis gossypii >Rhopalosiphum maidis > Lipaphis erysimi. Such an understanding will have far reaching applied value in terms of utilizing the biocontrol agent against insect pests. The results clearly indicated that C. zastrowi sillemi could be a better biological control agent against different aphid species, among them it could effectively control A. craccivora than L. erysimi where tritrophic interaction played much role.','INTRODUCTION\r\nInsect predators constitute a major component of Biological control. Among the predacious insects, the green lacewing, Chrysoperla zastrowi sillemi (Esben-Peterson) (Neuroptera: Chrysopidae) also called as aphid lions, is an efficient insect predator and polyphagous with a wide range of prey with enhanced searching capacity and voracious feeding habits feeding on leafhoppers, psyllids, aphids, coccids and mites, of which aphids are the most preferred host. Green lacewing is an example of the species that is not predacious in the adult stage but predatory in larval stage. Adults feed on pollen, nectar and aphid honeydew. C. zastrowi sillemi predator has the immense potential in inundative release measures in insect management because of their ability to inhabit diverse habitats, shorter life cycle, easy mass multiplication and inherent ability to tolerate pesticides (Amarasekare and Shearer 2013). It is estimated that possibly up to one third of the successful biological insect pest control programmes are attributable to introduction and release of insect predators (Williamson and Smith 1994). Biological control has long been recognized as an important component of Biointensive Integrated Pest Management (BIPM) which is a holistic approach for IPM. Moreover, IPM programme would be most effective if the pesticides used were efficacious against the pest species and relatively safer for beneficial arthropods such as parasitoids and predators. The preservation and maintenance of the natural enemies in the agroecosystem are essential for the establishment of the biological equilibrium and reduction of the production costs as well as to avoid side effects of the chemicals to environment (Gravena & Cunha 1991). Henry et al. (2010) compared courtship songs and erected Chrysoperla zastrowi sillemi to include both Middle Eastern and the Indian populations. So, in the research paper, the nomenclature of green lacewing is designated as Chrysoperla zastrowi sillemi although the name C. carnea was used at time of research. It plays a significant role as an efficient bioagent in controlling sucking pest and acquired attention from farmers as well as researchers due to its wide host range, vast geographical distribution, easy to mass multiplied and pesticide tolerant property to some extent. Keeping in view the demerits and limitations encountered in insecticidal application there is an imperative need for the development of biological control as an alternate method of control. Though Chrysoperla is proved to be a successful predator of insect pests, not much work has been carried out under the existing conditions of Telangana state especially in case of Bt cotton where the incidence of sucking insect pest complex is a major problem for which farmers are going for repeated use of systemic insecticides. Hence, there is a need for simultaneous use of insecticides as well as bioagents like Chrysoperla for insect pest management.\r\nMATERIAL AND METHODS\r\nLaboratory experiments were conducted at All India Coordinated Research Project (AICRP) on Biological control of Crop pests, Rajendranagar, Hyderabad, Telangana during 2016. Cowpea, maize, cotton and mustard seeds were sown in 20 earthen pots each and watered daily. Sufficient care was taken to raise healthy plants without any insecticidal application to develop good aphid culture. These aphids served as a source of aphid used for conducting experiment. Different four aphid species like A. craccivora, A. gossypii, R. maidis and L. erysimi were collected from cowpea, cotton, maize and mustard plants. All aphid species were taken from respective plants subsequent to counting the quantity of aphids on leaves. Individual predator larva was bound to a glass vial (5 × 3 cm) which was given 100 aphids as food on everyday schedule till the finishing of larval period. Prey consumption on daily basis was recorded by counting the quantity of leftover aphids. Absolute number of aphids consumed by individual instar all through the existence period and the quantity of prey eaten on the earlier day were recorded. Information gathered on the perceptions during the analysis was examined by utilizing required statistical methods.\r\nRESULTS AND DISCUSSION\r\nResults pertaining to predation potential of different stages of Chrysoperla larva on different species of aphids viz., A. craccivora (Cowpea aphid), A. gossypii (Cotton aphid), R. maidis (Maize aphid) and L. erysimi (Mustard aphids) is shown by Table 1 and Fig. 1, revealing that among the four species of aphids, A. craccivora was highly preferred by larva of Chrysoperla at all the three stages, whereas L. erysimi was least preferred. This was shown by mean utilization of aphids all through the larval period recorded as 445.2 ± 6.21 of A. craccivora; 309.2 ± 8.11 of A. gossypii; 197.6 ± 5.99 of R. maidis and 130 ± 4.49 of L. erysimi showing its high predation for A. craccivora supported by Vivek et al. (2013) showing the same order. Kumar et al., (2019) recorded that average number of preys consumed during first, second and third instar larva was 30.67, 53.00 and 123, total consumption was 206.66 on Aphis craccivora. Whereas Naruka et al. (2017) reported that the total prey consumption was 204.76 on A. craccivora where first, second and third instar larva consuming 36.37, 75.50 and 89.59 preys respectively. Single Chrysoperla larva could consume about 600-950 nymphs and grownup adult of M. persicae, whitefly pupae (Sewak et al., 2011). Chrysoperla larva prefer more A. gossypii to L. erysimi revealed by Liu and Chen (2001) which is in concurrence with the finding of Chakraborty and Korat (2010). Hence, it could be utilized much conveniently in crop plant ecosystem especially cotton than others as it preys not only on aphids but also other sucking insect pests along with eggs and neonate larvae of bollworm. Mean aphid predation rate of I and II instar larva of Chrysoperla on different aphid species was found as 52.4 ± 0.68 and 122.0 ± 2.21 (A. craccivora), 23.0 ± 1.00 and 80.6 ± 4.24 (A. gossypii), 14.4 ± 0.87 and 62.4 ± 3.4 (R. maidis), 8.2 ± 0.66 and 41.6 ± 2.06 (L. erysimi) respectively. Similarly, III instar larva exhibited a mean utilization rate of 270.8 ± 3.32, 205.6 ± 2.87, 120.8 ± 1.72 and 80.2 ± 1.77 for A. craccivora, A. gossypii, R. maidis and L. erysimi indicating its high consumption potential during III instar stage. Balasubramani and Swamiappan (1994) reported the high feeding capability of third instar larva consuming around 419.8 nymphs of A. gossypii of which 60-80 per cent were eaten up by third instar itself. Similar observations were reported by Krishnamoorthy & Mani (1982); Megahed et al. (1984); Saminathan et al. (2003); Jagadish & Jayaramaiah (2004). It was confirmed from investigation that as larva grown up into adults, its prey utilization rate likewise expanded regardless of prey consumed. Accordingly, Solangi et al. (2013) observed that the 3rd instar larvae voraciously fed on 3rd instar nymphs of all sucking pests. Batool et al. (2014) also observed that the daily predation rate of C. carnea increased slowly during the first two instars and reached to its peak in the third larval instar.\r\nData pertaining to daily consumption rate of Chrysoperla on different species of aphid revealed the significant increased of feeding from 7th day onwards indicating III instar as major predatory stage (Table 2 and Fig. 2). The result is in agreement with Vivek et al. (2013) exhibiting C. carnea predation potential upto 68.8-80.2% of total prey consumed. Satpathy et al. (2001) also observed higher food consumption rate with increasing prey density. Among four aphid species, Chrysoperla larvae feeding on A. craccivora and R. maidis have gone to pupation on 10th day whereas those larvae feeding on A. gossypii and L. erysimi have gone pupation on 9th day leading to forced pupation with consumption of unpreferred food.\r\nTherefore, the present study revealed the preference order of Chrysoperla larvae among aphid species as Aphis craccivora followed by A. gossypii, R. maidis and mustard aphid as least preferred prey. Such a comprehension will have broad applied esteem as far as using the biocontrol agents against various insect pests. The results clearly indicated that Chrysoperla zastrowi sillemi could be a promising bioagent against different aphid species. According to Nair et al. (2020) one of the major concerns on success of biocontrol agents against crop pests is their performance in the field and the biocontrol agents are to be used innundatively, i.e., repeated applications. However, there is always an optimal rate and timing of biological intervention to have more impact on pest control than the release rate. The release timing affects the host: natural enemy synchrony and decide the successful establishment of a biocontrol agent in the field (Liu and Stansly 2005).\r\n \r\n','Thounaojam Sheileja, T. Uma Maheswari and Tourangbam Shantibala (2022). Evaluation of Feeding Potential and Prey Preference of Chrysoperla zastrowi sillemi (Esben - Peterson) on different Aphid Species. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 14(2a): 188-192.'),(5134,'134','Morphological Adaptations for Stress Tolerance in Chickpea (Cicer arietinum L.)','More Suraj Narayan, Banshidhar, Salunkhe Harshraj Santosh and Priyanka Jaiswal*','32 Morphological Adaptations for Stress Tolerance in Chickpea _Cicer arietinum L._ More Suraj Narayan.pdf','',1,'Chickpea is a very important leguminous crop and is cultivated in many regions. It is a major source of protein and contains an ample amount of nutrients, amino acids, and carbohydrates as well, thus it is suitable for both humans as food and for animals as feed. It was observed that in 2020, the total production of chickpea around world is 15 million ton in which several countries are involved such as 73% India, Turkey, Myanmar and Pakistan termed as secondary producer. If we talk about total production and productivity in India alone, the area covered by chickpea in India is 8.12 M hectare with a production of 7.46 million ton, and productivity of 895kg/hectare in Madhya Pradesh rank first with a total production of 3.09 M ha, Maharashtra rank second with the production of 1.29 M ha and Karnataka rank third with the production of 0.97M ha. Being a leguminous crop, it has an inherent tendency to fix atmospheric nitrogen which increases the fertility of the soil. The main reason for the loss of quality and yield is various stress conditions viz. heat stress, salinity stress, chilling stress, drought stress, etc. This stress adversely affects the productivity of the crop. To cope with this stress the crop has undergone some morphological adaptations i.e., morphological traits like the number of branches, root length, etc. help in adapting and tolerating the drought stress conditions. However, such changes occur at a very slow rate and are insufficient to overcome the yield loss. For this, breeding is used to develop stress-tolerant genotypes basically in form of early maturing genotypes. These morphological adaptations are helpful in guiding a breeder in developing climate resilient cultivars that could give better yield under various types of climatic rigours. This review paper provides the whole information about the chickpea crop, their adaptations, stress conditions in chickpea and stress tolerance mechanisms that would be helpful in guiding chickpea improvement programme.','Adaptations, Breeding, Chickpea, Stress, Tolerance',' The change in climatic conditions causes various stress conditions to the plant which hinders the proper growth and development of the plants. The major challenge in the production of chickpea is climate change as it affects production and productivity too. The yield of chickpeas is affected by the drought, high temperature, chilling effect, and high moisture content. These stress conditions like heat stress, chilling stress, salinity stress and drought stress are one of the reasons for yield and quality loss of chickpea. The breeding techniques help in pre-flowering or adapting the stress conditions by tolerating them. ','INTRODUCTION\r\nChickpea (Cicer arientinum L.) is the most important legume crop after the common bean and it is commonly grown in arid and semi-arid regions. It is a highly self-pollinated crop in the Fabaceae family with around 28000 genes dispersed on 16 chromosomes (Mart et al., 2021). There are two types of chickpeas first one is small-seeded known as desi and the other is large-seeded known as Kabuli chana, there is a difference in both plants like the morphology of the coat differs from each other and the colour of the flower too (Devasirvatham et al., 2018). Chickpea is used to feed both animals and humans as the nutritional value is high it contains carbohydrates, essential amino acids, types of sulphur, unsaturated fatty acid (linoleic and oleic acid), various vitamins such as riboflavin, niacin, thiamine, folate, magnesium, phosphorus and potassium. Chickpea also has medicinal values as it has the potential to reduce the diseases of humans like cardiovascular disease, diabetes specifically types II, any digestive problems, and cancer, not only it is beneficial for consumers but also where it is cultivated the land is also benefitted it is used for crop rotation and break the disease for cereal crops, along with this it also maintains the fertility of soil as it fixes the soil atmospheric nitrogen (Hosseinzadeh et al., 2018). Nitrogen-fixing ability also has environmental benefits due to reduced emissions of nitrous oxide greenhouse gas. On average the mean nitrogen fixed by chickpea. is 40 kg/ha, however it can fix upto 125 kg/ha nitrogen in field depending on agronomy, precipitation, soil management, and inoculation. At global basis, it is cultivated in 56 countries and the total area is covered by app. 17.8 million hectares with an average production of 0.9t/ha. The major producer of chickpea are India, Pakistan, Myanmar, Nepal, and Bangladesh which are the Indian subcontinent but among all India contributes 69% of the total cultivated area with a production of 68%. In 1960 the production was less i.e., 0.6t/ha and at 2014 it was increased up to 0.006% only (Durdane et al., 2021). The region where chickpea is produced is affected by various environmental stress such as heat stress, chilling and frost stress, drought stress (Pareek et al., 2019). As the population is increasing day by day the need for food is also increasing but increasing global warming cause problems in the field of agriculture. \r\nIn regions of Asia, Europe, Africa and Australia due to abrupt changes in climate like extreme heat wave, drought, and floods the food production face major issues (Nadeem et al., 2019). There is vast variation in precipitation, heat waves, and cold temperature due to the rise in temperature from the mid-21st century. Due to the occurrence of these changes, there is a huge impact on the production of chickpea which leads to yield loss. On an average drought and heat stress together accounts for about 50% yield loss (Farooq et al., 2017). It was observed in Germany that rainfall is increased by 11% and 30% in the winter and summer season respectively. The temperature rises above 30°C which supports the pathogen and affects crop productivity and fertility. As the environment is changing plants also trying to adapt, moreover, the combination or alteration of diverse abiotic and biotic stress factors may further cause trade-offs between plant responses that are appropriate for adaptation to one stress but can enhance susceptibility to other stresses (Maqbool et al., 2017). Chickpea is used as a rotational crop rather it is a crop individually on residual soil moisture, as it causes moisture stress at the end of the cropping system due to heat stress. During the reproductive stage, the heat stress is at its peak due to which the major yield loss we have to face is around 10 to 15%, and therefore, there is a decrease in the yield of 53kg/hectare whenever the temperature rises 1°C above the normal temperature. As the environment is changing day by day plants also try to change and adapt according to the changing climate (Pareek et al., 2019). \r\nA. Biotic and Abiotic Stress in Plants\r\nIn plants stress affects the growth and development. Stress can affect the plant morphologically and physiologically too and altered the gene expression, metabolism of cells, growth rates and results in decrease in the economic yield (Farooq et al., 2017). If there is a sudden change in the environment it leads to stress, which is broadly categorized as biotic and abiotic stress (Fig. 1). The plants sometimes get more injury due to which the metabolic function of plants get disturbed. If the stress is less the plant can easily recover but if the stress is high the injury can lead to death because during stress the plant prevents the flowering, formation of seed and initiate senescence and this is the sign of plants which cannot tolerate stress (Farooq et al., 2017). The common example of the stress-tolerant plant is desert plants also known as ephemerals (short duration plants), they flower in a few days and die (Pareek et al., 2019). \r\nBiotic stress occurs due to biological agents such as disease, nematodes, insects, and pest while abiotic stress can be caused by any environmental change it may be physical or chemical. In the case of biotic stress, the pest and pathogen harm the plants by deriving the nutrients from the host plant and eventually it leads to death of plant (Bhaskarla et al., 2020). Despite lacking the adaptive immune system plants can counteract biotic stresses by evolving themselves to certain sophisticated strategies. In the case of biotic stress it basically affects the process of photosynthesis, because the insects feed on leaves due to which the leaf area is decreased and the rate of photosynthesis decreases. In abiotic stress the plant can suffer from drought stress, water logging (excessive water), extreme temperatures such as heat, cold, and frost, salt stress, and metal toxicity which affects the growth, development, yield, and quality of crops. It was predicted according to today’s condition that soon the water will become scarce as the level of freshwater decreases; therefore, it is necessary to develop a crop that is resistant to this stress and ensure food security (Mann et al., 2019). \r\nChickpea is highly affected by abiotic stress like heat stress, drought stress, and salinity stress which leads to heavy yield loss. To minimize such losses the plant undergoes some morphological as well as physiological modification (discussed in Table 1) (Bhaskarla et al., 2020). Plant responses to abiotic stresses fluctuate depending on growth/developmental stage, harshness, incidence, and span of exposure to the stress (Dresselhaus & Huckelhoven, 2018). While it is most sensitive during the reproductive phase, chickpea does display to some extent, sensitivity to abiotic stress at early vegetative stages which can reduce seed number. These abiotic stresses reduce yield largely through their effect on flower set, pollen viability, pod set/abortion, and retention, all being the key determinants of a seed number (Gaur et al., 2019).\r\n \r\nB. Effect of drought stress in chickpea\r\nAcross the globe yield of chickpea is lost up to 40-45% due to drought stress and breeding techniques is applied for over two decades for drought tolerance in chickpea. According to the previous experiments performed by various researchers, it has been observed that several traits like early maturity to escape the drought stress, root morphology, partitioning rate, biomass of shoot, and yield of grain are the responses to drought stress. It was shown in table 1 how traits in chickpea get affected by drought stress (Kaloki et al., 2019). This effect can be eliminated by using a tolerant variety of chickpea by using various genetic approaches, as the main objective is to recognize the genotypes by using methods known as screening. There is a short duration drought-tolerant variety that is ICC 4958 identified by ICRISAT (International Crops Research Institute for Semi-arid Tropics), this variety has some advanced root structure the length of the root is very long with a larger volume and because of this trait, this genotype is used much as a donor parent in the research of drought stress (Bhaskarla et al., 2020). If there is a slight difference in the crop duration or yield potential then the effect can be seen in the yield of grain, as the short duration variety gives high yield as compared to long-duration variety when they are under stress conditions. To escape this stress and difference within the phenology various research has been conducted such as grain yield and time of 50% flowering. According to this method, they have selected 5 genotypes of most drought-tolerant and 20 genotypes that are highly sensitive to drought among a total of 211 genotypes. To identify the phenotype several imaging techniques are also there which are non-destructible and to measure the photosynthesis such as Lincoln, NE, LiCOR 6800) to measure chlorophyll like SPAD meter, Komica, Osaka for light there is an instrument known as a spectrometer, to develop a tolerant variety a pot experiment was performed in ICRISAT where 8 genotypes of chickpea were chosen and measured their canopy temperature by infrared thermometer under normal drought stress. It was observed that it was not sufficient for the field experiment should be conducted where CTD (canopy temperature depression) was calculated to observe the coming yield of crops under the condition of drought stress (Pushpavalli et al., 2020). CTD recorded at the mid reproductive stage (62 days after sowing) was positively associated with grain yield. Therefore, drought tolerance breeding needs the understanding of crop developmental stage and intensity and duration of stress because plants can continue growing with a limited water supply (Kaloki et al., 2019). \r\nC. Effect of heat stress in chickpea\r\nWhen the chickpea plant is exposed at a temperature of more than 30°C then it leads to loss of floral bud as well as open flower. At a temperature of more than 35°C to 39°C it leads to a loss in grain yield. At reproductive stage, if the plant is under heat stress, then there can be a major loss in yield because heat stress affects the sterility of pollen, and pod setting too, not only anther but pollen also showed some type of abnormalities like a number of locules, thickening of anther epidermis wall. At high temperatures both fertility of pollen and function of stigma are affected because heat stress triggers oxidative stress which leads to poor yield. Heat stress during the reproductive period affects grain yield due to poor pollen viability and reduced pod set (Coyne et al., 2020). According to genotype, the plant can tolerate heat stress up to its tolerance capacity, basically due to heat stress the rate of grain filling decreases and ultimately the seed weight also decreased (Arif et al., 2021). During the period of grain filling the concentration of sucrose and starch is also reduced under heat stress. The short-duration variety is much more tolerant to heat stress and shows better phenological traits as compared to the long-duration plant because the short-duration variety easily escapes the heat stress which leads to proper pod filling and high yield. Genotypes with lower canopy temperature depression i.e., 1 to 3°C had lower grain yield as compared to high canopy temperature depression i.e., >4°C (Mart et al., 2021).\r\nD. Effect of salinity stress in chickpea\r\nSalinity stress is one of the major issues that cause problems in crop growth and development, if there is a high concentration of salt present in soil then the crop can get affected by salinity stress as they disturb the balance of osmosis and cause secondary drought stress and the plant water uptake will be restricted (Muriuki et al., 2020). Salinity stress disturbs the growth of the plant by influencing the hormones to make complex interactions and imbalance of nutrients. Salinity stress affects the overall growth of the plant along with grain yield its quality and its composition (Fatnassi et al., 2018). For instance, photosynthesis in 100 legumes was reduced by salt stress due to the limited supply of carbon dioxide or salinity-induced reductions in photosynthetic pigments and disturbance in electron transport activity of photosystem II, the carbon dioxide availability reduced it limits the diffusion process via stomata as photosynthetic pigments and electron transport activity of photosystem II are influenced by specific toxicity of ion from over-accumulated Na+ and/or Cl– 104 and/or salinity-induced oxidative stress (Maqbool et al., 2017). The availability of carbon dioxide reduced and increases the chlorosis disease and leaves necrosis under salinity stress and triggers the senescence of leaves. Likewise, grain protein contents in grain legumes decline under salt stress due to reduced nitrate absorption from the soil solution and/or disturbed the metabolism of nitrogen in legume plants (Jha et al., 2018). \r\nE. Effect of chilling stress in chickpea\r\nChickpea is also affected by low temperature which is divided according to temperature i.e., -1.5 to 15°C. Chilling stress occurs when the temperature is below-1.5°C which affects growth and production. Due to chilling stress, the viability of pollen is suppressed, stigma receptivity is also reduced and pod setting will get delayed. Kabuli variety of chickpea are much chilling tolerant as the Testa is thin which allow the imbibition rapidly and due to which it is susceptible to chilling stress. Hence, due to high susceptibility, there is high leakage of electrolytes, chlorophyll loss, a decrease in the content of sucrose, and decrease starch accumulation. The emergence is delayed when chickpea is sown at low temperatures due to the longer time to accumulate the required minimum edge of approximately 115 growing degree days, and successive low temperature or frost events reduce the plant growth rate ultimately lengthening the duration of the vegetative growth stage and delay in flowering, podding and maturity. When the plant is at the reproductive stage it easily adapts to the low temperature as compared to when it is in the seedling stage because when the plant is at the seedling stage the pod will not set properly which leads to heavy yield loss (Yousefi et al., 2018). To overcome this stress seed priming is one of the methods by which the effect can be reduced by enhancing the growth, water relation, process of photosynthesis activity of amylase, metabolism of sugar, the activity of the antioxidant enzyme. There is also the various breeding method by which the development of chilling tolerant variety is introduced, sometimes the plant easily adapts the climate change but to adapt to these changes they take their own time at that time there is a need to introduce breeding methods by which plant can become more susceptible to these stress condition (Hegde et al., 2018). \r\nF. Breeding in chickpea for stress-tolerant genotype\r\nThe plants which are mostly short duration can easily escape the drought stress as early flowering will be there due to which the plants will mature early. In a short duration crop, the plant will flower early i.e., 20 to 25 days early as compared to a late duration crop. This type of mechanism increases the yield of chickpeas. Some of the examples of early maturing variety are KAK2 and JG 11 in the southern region which has huge productivity. Early maturing Kabuli genotypes such as ILC3182, FLIP98-142C, ILC1799, ILC3832, FLIP98-141, ILC3101, and ILC588 under dryland conditions in Iran were identified as early maturing genotypes (Richards et al., 2022). Hence being an early maturing variety easily escape the stress condition and as a result, the yield is high. The roots of chickpeas can utilize soil water even from a depth of 15 to 30cm. Total biomass of the root in the early growth stage i.e., end of the vegetative period, and seed yield under terminal drought showed a positive correlation (Coyne et al., 2020). The deep root system of chickpea utilizes the subsoil water due to which the yield is optimum even in drought conditions. The biomass of the root and its depth is one of the traits which is a type of adaptation considered in chickpea, in the breeding line there are some varieties were introduced which are drought tolerant i.e., ICC 4958, and drought-sensitive too i.e., Anegre, and these varieties are discovered by researchers of ICRISAT (Kaloki et al., 2019). These studies in different genotypes revealed that by breeding we can control the density of roots and morphological structure so that they can easily tolerate the plant along with high productivity as shown in (figure 2). Moreover, soil water manipulation at the reproductive stage must match crop phenology such as 50% flowering development of pod in order to utilize root traits to achieve drought avoidance in chickpea (Yousef et al., 2020). There are many studies that have been conducted to make the plant more resistant to salinity stress. The seeds go through many screenings process, as the advancement in technologies has been increased such as genetic inheritance, evaluation techniques, software techniques, molecular markers, germplasm modification, and mapping. The majority of the plant processes which are having a role in salinity tolerance show continuous diversity, have a little inheritance, and are also affected by environmental factors. There are many techniques that include Mutation breeding, it is used to create variation in the genes of plants. A major key of this process is the identification of the individual with a target mutation which involves two important steps screening and mutant confirmation. In this process first, the seeds are treated with some mutagens like agent’s gamma rays, chemical mutagens, x rays, and fast neutrons, after dividing the plants which have useful qualities are chosen for the next generation. Multi-location trials are conducted for evaluation and released as a new variety with use. Another method is DH production (double-haploid) which is done through a culture of anther, it is a very exciting tool that is used for improvement in the crop. It shortens the cycle of breeding and has high selection efficiency, fixation of homozygosity, and expression of recessive alleles suitable for breeding. This technology is found to be very efficient as it helps to fix favourable alleles to control the agronomical trait of plants (Singh et al., 2021). \r\nSimilarly, an early maturing i.e., ICCV92944 is tolerant to heat stress. Under late sown conditions this variety is mostly preferred for the cereal-based cropping system. Early flowering with a long reproductive period is an important trait for heat and drought escape mechanisms. For the breeding program, various heat sensitive and tolerant varieties are developed. ICRISAT develop a set of recombinant inbred line by crossing two different genotypes i.e., ICC4567 × ICC15614 to study their response to heat stress under field conditions, and it was observed that pod set percentage was highly affected by heat stress (Kaloki et al., 2019). In case of salinity stress, the root characteristics is the first line of defence in plants. One of the primary responses to abiotic stress such as high salinity is the disruption of the Na+ /K+ ratio in the cytoplasm of the root cells. The phytohormone abscisic acid (ABA) plays an important role during plant adaptation to environmental stress such as high salinity, drought, low temperature, or mechanical wounding (Richards et al., 2022).\r\nG. Adaptive traits in chickpea\r\nIn competition with weeds, the early vigour of chickpea is a very beneficial trait, but in regions, like semi-arid this feature is not much utilized as the crop will immediately get exhausted and the stored water will become scarce due to which plant will face terminal drought during the reproductive stage. But, in regions like Australia where there is a Mediterranean climate this trait is very useful because the cropping system fully depends on winter rainfall and this early vigour enhances the ground cover, decreases the run-off water, and reduces the evaporation rate by preventing moisture loss within the soil profile (Richards et al., 2022). To induce this trait various conventional method is used, as these methods are labour-intensive and not much suitable for field trials. To adapt to the heat and drought stress roots are very helpful such as length and density of roots, their volume, and depth along with root mass. As we discussed earlier abiotic stress such as heat, drought, chilling, and salinity is the major factor that is responsible for the yield loss in chickpea but chickpea has some adaptive traits which are useful to tolerate this stress and some of the traits are developed by various breeding methods (Jha et al., 2018). However, change is reliant upon the season, planting date, and water system and these mixes influence phenological improvement with sped-up advancement under late planting and dry circumstances, early chickpea lines that are full-grown under 85 days have been grown however these are by and large lower-yielding contrasted with the more drawn out length lines, and for the most part early flowering plants show biomass collection, level, and yield reduction and have fewer pods and seeds per plant than the late-developing plants. This may be on the grounds that they don\'t have adequate development time to amass acclimatizes for ensuing remobilization to the creating grain. The more limited vegetative development stage might possibly restrict biomass collection and arrangement of extra branches and podding hubs, while the more limited podding stage may be lacking for grain filling except if the pace of grain filling is altogether sped up. In chickpea, flowering and podding (regenerative and grain filling stages individually) are by and large the most basic stages impacted by unfriendly circumstances. Early life is an advantageous quality in chickpea, and it adds to weed intensity, water use productivity, and grain yield under specific developing conditions. In semi-dry conditions, for example, in India, early force is certainly not a great characteristic since yields will rapidly debilitate put away water causing a drought at the reproductive stage. In any case, in Mediterranean environments, for example, Australia where editing frameworks fundamentally rely upon winter precipitation, early energy qualities can work with crop development by upgrading ground cover, diminishing water run-off and vanishing by saving dampness in the soil profile for later use in the season. Early life is a versatile characteristic of dry season and chilling pressure in chickpeas Root attributes, for example, root length thickness, volume, root profundity, and root mass assume a basic part in drought and intensity transformation in chickpeas and a few QTLs controlling root qualities have been accounted for. Exact phenotyping of root attributes is tested since roots develop underground, and they are hard to recuperate from soil completely. Common methods for characterizing root traits in chickpea and food legumes are using polyvinyl chloride cylinder (PVC) growth systems, soil cores, semi-hydroponic system (Maphosa et al., 2020).\r\n','More Suraj Narayan, Banshidhar, Salunkhe Harshraj Santosh and Priyanka Jaiswal (2022). Morphological Adaptations for Stress Tolerance in Chickpea (Cicer arietinum L.). Biological Forum – An International Journal, 14(2a): 193-199.'),(5135,'134','Farmer Perception and Pesticide usage Pattern in Snake gourd and Ridge gourd grown in Tamil Nadu','S. Vallarasu, A. Suganthi*, S.V. Krishnamoorthy and H. Usha Nandhini Devi','33 Farmer Perception and Pesticide usage Pattern in Snake gourd and Ridge gourd grown in Tamil Nadu S. Vallarasu.pdf','',1,'An extensive survey was conducted to determine the extent of pesticide usage patterns and farmers’ knowledge on pesticides and their use in snake gourd and ridge gourd cultivated in Tamil Nadu, India. Farmers relied on pesticides majorly for the management of leaf miner, fruit fly, aphid, and thrips. The highly used insecticides were acephate 50% WP + imidacloprid 1.8% SP(40%), flonicamid 50% WG (35%), thiamethoxam 25% WG (27.5%) and lambda-cyhalothrin 5 % EC (22.5%). Around 67.5% farmers trusted the local pesticide retailers for pesticide recommendations. Only a meagre number of farmers (15%) sprayed the recommended dose and paid attention to pesticide labels (10%). A knowledge gap was observed among farmers pertaining to waiting period after pesticide spray and followed a spray interval of 10-14 days (45%). The survey revealed the lack of knowledge among farmers on the recommended dosage of pesticide, safe harvest interval, label claim, and personal protection measures during spray operation, but their knowledge was adequate on pesticide container disposal, mixing, and measurement.','Snake gourd, Ridge gourd, pest, pesticide','Snake gourd and ridge gourd being the most consumed and cheap vegetable crops in Tamil Nadu, we should be more concerned about pesticide use and its residues. Farmers are misapplying pesticides because they are unaware of the dangers they pose to environment and human health. As a result, farmers attitudes must be changed through awareness programmes. In addition, training should be conducted about integrated crop and pest management practises to reduce pesticide application for safer vegetable production by farmers.','INTRODUCTION\r\nThe Cucurbitaceae family is the second-largest vegetable family and one of the most genetically diverse groups of plants. This family includes snake gourd and ridge gourd, both of which are common in tropical areas (Devi, 2017). Snake gourd, Trichosanthes cucumerina is native to India or the Indo-Malayan region of tropical Asia (Roy et al., 1991) and is widely distributed throughout Asia (Ojiako & Igwe 2008). Ridge gourd, Luffa acutangula also known as angled loofah, is a domesticated vegetable native to Asia\'s subtropical regions, such as India, Japan and China (Pessarakli, 2016). It is commonly used in traditional medicine in India to treat jaundice, urinary bladder stones, ulcers, and sores (Arunachalam et al., 2012). During the growth period, the snake gourd and ridge gourd crops are affected by various pests including insects. The most common insect pests found are fruit fly, aphids, leaf miner, pumpkin beetle, thrips, and semilooper, which have a significant impact on productivity (Atwal & Dhaliwal 1997). These pests destroy nearly half of the world\'s food crops every year. As a result, plant protection chemicals must be used to mitigate the infestation\'s severity. However, these pesticides are frequently applied indiscriminately and inappropriately, resulting in deleterious effects on environment and food quality. According to the World Health Organization, developing countries account for 20 per cent of global pesticide use, posing a risk to human health and the environment (Hurtig et al., 2003). Literature on insect pest dynamics and pest management measures pertaining to ridge gourd and snake gourd in Tamil Nadu is meagre. With this context in mind, a survey was carried out to observe the major insect pests attacking these crops, examine farmers\' knowledge of pesticide use and its harmful effects, and determine pesticide usage patterns.\r\nMATERIALS AND METHODS\r\nA. Selection of study area\r\nCoimbatore, Dharmapuri, Salem, and Tiruppur districts (Fig. 1) were chosen for surveying based on the extent of snake gourd and ridge gourd cultivation. Furthermore, significant snake gourd and ridge gourd growing blocks and villages were chosen within each district with the data obtained from region specific state Dept. of Horticulture Offices. Table 1 shows the locations of the snake gourd and ridge gourd growing fields surveyed in Tamil Nadu.\r\nB. Nature and source of data\r\nData on insect pest status and pesticide usage patterns were gathered from a group of 10 progressive farmers in each district. As a result, a total of 40 farmers from Tamil Nadu\'s major snake gourd and ridge gourd growing areas were surveyed. Based on the objectives of the study, an interview schedule was designed in a meaningful pattern and was used to collect data by interviewing individual farmers. The questionnaire consisted of three portions.\r\nSection 1: Pertaining to socio-economic status (farmer name, address, age, education, family particulars). \r\nSection 2: Questions related to major pesticides used (chemical name, trade name, dose, manufactured company). \r\nSection 3: Pesticide usage pattern (source of information on recommended pesticides, attention towards labels, measurement and mixing of pesticide, safety methods followed, dosage of insecticides, type of sprayer used, time of spraying, number of sprays, waiting period followed, spray intervals, handling and disposal of pesticide containers).\r\nThe interview was held during November to December, 2021. Questions were asked in numerical order, giving farmers enough time to consider the question and respond appropriately. As most of the farmers were illiterate or educated only up to primary level, it was necessary to clarify the questions. Farmers were selected based on their willingness and had the option to refuse to provide responses, if necessary. However, no farmers refused to participate in the interview conducted in an interactive mode.\r\nC. Data Analysis\r\nTo draw relevant findings, the survey data was classified according to the needed information and analysed using numerous descriptive statistical techniques such as mean, per centage, and standard deviation to examine the factors impacting pesticide use and consumption pattern.\r\nRESULTS AND DISCUSSION\r\nA. Socio-economic factors of snake gourd and ridge gourd growing farmers \r\nSocio economic status of snake and ridge gourd farmers, with an emphasis on educational status, land holding size, farming experience, family size, and other socioeconomic aspects are presented in Table 2.\r\nAccording to the findings of the survey, 85 per cent of snake gourd and ridge gourd growers were male, whereas only 15 per cent of farmers were female. This result was in accordance with (Berni et al., 2021) reported that of the 402 farmers surveyed, 90.3% were male and 9.7 % were female. It revealed that the majority of males are interested in pest management practise, techniques, and management than females.\r\nEducation is very important because it broadens farmers\' perspectives and exposes them to various aspects and opportunities related to agriculture fields. In this study, farmers are classified into five categories on the basis of their level of education. Out of 40 farmers, 20% had no education, 30% had primary level education, 25% had secondary education, 15% had higher secondary education, and 10% had graduate level of education. This results are in line with (Nyakundi et al., 2012) reported that among 100 farmers, 50% had attended secondary school, 15% had attended college, and 8% had had no schooling. Though a majority of the farmers surveyed were literate, knowledge acquirement on scientific practices of pest management was found to be less. In comparison, under the national Integrated Pest Management (IPM) program, farmers in Indonesia (91.1%) who had completed secondary school could reduce pesticide consumption by nearly half without compromising rice yields (Indraningsih et al., 2005).\r\nMajority of farmers (80%) had a high level of farming experience followed by medium and low with 15 per cent and 5 per cent respectively. This study found that older farmers have more farming experience than younger farmers.\r\nFarmers are classified into three categories on the basis of their size of land holding. According to the survey, marginal farmers with less than 2.5 acres accounted for 47.5 percent, Medium farmers with 2.5 to 10 acres accounted for 45 percent, and large farmers with more than 10 acres accounted for only 7.5%. In the same way, the majority of farmers in Tamil Nadu are considered to be \"marginal farmers\" by the All-India Report on Agricultural Census (AIRAC) for 2015-2016.\r\nMajority (57.25%) of the farmers comes under old age group (more than 45 years) followed by middle (Above 25 to 45 years) and young (under 25 years) age groups with 35 per cent and 7.5 per cent respectively and their average family size was 4.57 ± 0.39 member in family. The findings revealed that, despite owning land, younger age groups do not prefer farming. Furthermore, farmers who make agriculture their primary occupation do not involve their children in farming. This could explain why there are fewer young farmers.\r\nB. Pest status \r\nA detailed survey was conducted in all of the above-mentioned Tamil Nadu districts to identify major pests. Among the noted pests, fruit fly Bactrocera cucurbitae (Coquillett) and leaf miner Lyriomyza trifolii (Burgess) were recorded as a major pest in all the districts studied. Other major pests recorded were thrips Thrips palmi (Karny) in Coimbatore; whitefly B. tabaci (Gennadius) in Dharmapuri; and pumpkin beetles Aulacophora foveicollis (Lucas) in Coimbatore, Dharmapuri, and Tiruppur districts. The pest such as aphid Aphis gossypii (Glover), red spider mite Tetranychus urticae (Koch), and snake gourd semilooper Diaphania indica (Saunders) are of minor importance in the snake gourd and ridge gourd ecosystems of Tamil Nadu (Table 3, Fig. 2). The variation in pest dynamics between districts may be due to differences in cultivar/hybrids, sowing time, crop stage, geographical location of the study area, climatic differences, particularly temperature and rainfall, which influences pest population (Meenambigai et al., 2017).\r\nTemperature and relative humidity were important factors influencing fruit fly infestation, which increased as temperature and relative humidity increased and vice versa. Based on the information provided by the farmers during survey, it was inferred that major pests of snake gourd and ridge gourd were leaf miner (97.5%) followed by fruit fly (95%), pumpkin beetles (70%), thrips (62.5%), and whitefly (55 %), while minor pests like aphid (35%), red spider mites (10%), and snake gourd semi-looper (7.5%) (Table 4) were also observed. This is consistent with the reports of Dhillon et al. (2005) that melon fruit fly causes damage to over 81 plant types. Similarly, Allwood et al. (1999) and Doharey (1983) also reported that Cucurbitaceae family are the most preferred host of fruit fly. Approximately 23 Liriomyza sp. have been reported to be economically important, with L. trifolii dominating in vegetable crops such as tomato, cucurbitaceous crops and vegetable pea and said to have the potential to infest over 250 crop species (Sharma, 1994). Several pests attack cucurbits, reducing the quality and quantity of produce. Most insect pests cause damage during the crop growth period, but some insects such as the red pumpkin beetle, leaf miner, and flea beetle are particularly damaging at the seedling stage, while fruit fly appears at the fruiting stage.\r\nC. Status of pesticides \r\nThe results of the survey on pesticide usage patterns in snake gourd and ridge gourd in studied districts of Tamil Nadu are presented in Table 5. The overall pesticide usage profile showed that use of acephate 50% WP + imidacloprid 1.8% SP was maximum (40%). Acephate is commonly sprayed by farmers to control insect pests on vegetables such as tomato, brinjal, and cucurbits.\r\nGreenhouse-grown brinjal contained high levels of residues of acephate and its metabolite, methamidophos (Sharma et al. (2012). Acephate usage was followed by flonicamid 50% WG (35%), acetamiprid 20% SP (32.5%), thiamethoxam 25% WG (27.5%), alphamethrin 10% EC and beta cyfluthrin 8.49% + imidacloprid 98% (25%), cyantraniliprole 10.20% W/W (22.5%), lambda cyhalothrin 5% EC (22.5%), spinetoram 11.7% SC (20%), emamectin Benzoate 5% SG and chlorpyriphos 50% + cypermethrin 5% EC (17.5%), phenthoate 50% EC (10%), and propargite 57% EC (5%) for the management of sucking pests, leaf miner, fruit fly and mites.\r\nFarmers also used a variety of fungicides to control diseases such as powdery mildew, downy mildew, and mosaic infestations. The fungicides predominantly used were mancozeb 75% WP, azoxystrobin 18.2% + difenoconazole 11.4 SC, propiconazole 13.9% EC + difenoconazole 13.9% EC, propiconazole 25% EC, metalaxyl 8% + mancozeb 64% WP, and thiophanate methyl 70% WP. \r\nInsecticides were the most commonly used pesticides by farmers in the surveyed area (68.5%), followed by fungicides (31.5%). This finding is in accordance with the current pesticide use pattern in India with insecticides (51%) dominating the pesticide group, followed by fungicides + bactericides (33%), and herbicides (16%) (FAOSTAT, 2018). This supports the farmers general perception that insecticides were chosen primarily for insect management and fungicides are used rarely for disease control. Farmers desire to satisfy consumer preference and to get high yields from unit area force them to grow market driven hybrids that are cultivated throughout the year. During the growth period, the crop is subjected to attack by pests which might account for the high proportions of insecticides and fungicides used.\r\nCentral Insecticides Board and Registration Committee (CIB&RC) of India has not approved any insecticide for use in snake gourd or ridge gourd. However, farmers used CIB & RC recommended pesticides for other crops (cotton, rice, brinjal, chilli, Pomegranate, cabbage, and tomato) such as flonicamid 50% WG, acetamiprid 20 SP, thiamethoxam 25 WG, phenthoate 50% EC, and emamectin benzoate 5 SG for the management of sucking insect pests; lambda cyhalothrin 5 % EC and alphamethrin 10% EC for the management of fruit fly; spinetoram 11.7% SC for management of leaf miner and propargite 57% EC for the management of red spider mite. Farmers used six pesticide mixtures and thirteen individual pesticides. If the trend of using non-recommended pesticide combinations is continued, snake gourd and ridge gourd infesting insects may develop cross resistance. Farmers aren\'t aware of less persistent but effective insecticide molecules. Despite most farmers being literate, this had little influence on insecticide selection.\r\nD. Pesticide usage pattern\r\nIn the current study, it was found that 67.50 per cent of farmers contacted pesticide retail shops and 15 per cent contacted other farmers for information on pesticide recommendations. Extension officers (7.5 per cent) and Tamil Nadu Agricultural University (TNAU) (7.5 per cent) were contacted by fewer farmers (Table 6). These results were similar with previous works done by Jamali et al. (2014), Naveen Prakash et al. (2021), Kumar et al. (2017), and Shetty et al. (2010) reported that the major source of knowledge for pesticide application in vegetable crops were obtained from pesticide dealers. This is not surprising given that the majority of farmers are unable to differentiate between different pest and disease pathogens, as well as control measures such as insecticides and fungicides, and instead rely on information and advice provided by local retail shops to make decisions.\r\nThis study also found that 90% of growers did not read the pesticide label before spraying. Farmers may not know the target crop and pest, proper dose, toxicity level, waiting period, and other important information unless they read the label. If the insect damage is not correctly identified, improper dosage and frequency may be ineffective, useless, and a waste of time and money. As a result, farmers must be educated in order to be protected on the farm and at home (World Report, 2005). Devi (2010) also reported that 99.5 per cent of farmers were unable to determine the toxicity level from the hazard colour code printed on pesticide containers.\r\nOnly about 15% of farmers sprayed pesticides at the recommended dose, with the rest spraying at approximations. The main reason is that very few farmers are aware of pesticide recommendations made by the CIB & RC and State Agricultural Universities (SAUs), while others relied entirely on local dealers, fellow farmers, and, in most cases, pesticide dealers, as previously reported. This is also true in many developed countries, where farmers\' choices of pesticides are influenced by retailers in the farmers neighborhood (Epstein & Bassein 2003). Almost all of the respondents used chemical pesticides at various intervals. The majority of respondents (45%) applied pesticides at 10-14 days interval, followed by 32.5 per cent who applied pesticides based on pest occurrence, and only 22.5 per cent applied pesticides at 7-day intervals. Pesticide use is hazardous to both the environment and human health.\r\nFarmers frequent use of pesticides may be due to a lack of understanding about pesticides negative effects. The majority of surveyed farmers (77.5%) did not use any safety precautions when spraying. The same result was reported by Azmi et al. (2006), but there was disagreement with Tripathi et al. (2020) findings that only 30% of them did not use any protective measures. The current study demands intervention for educating farmers on proper pesticide use and handling, as well as the health risks associated with pesticide application.\r\nAccording to the current investigation, none of the farmers used empty pesticide containers for house/farm purposes, with the majority simply throwing them in neglected areas (92.5%) and some farmers (7.5%) leaving them randomly in the field. No farmer buried pesticide containers in soil, which contradicts the findings of Reddy et al. (2011), who found that 50% of empty pesticide containers were buried in the field itself. According to Jana et al. (2012), respondents did not use empty pesticide containers for household (85%) or farm (53%) purposes. This data shows that while most farmers are aware that empty pesticide containers should not be used on the farm or in the home, none are aware of the scientific disposal procedures for used packs/containers. In this context, farmers should be advised to follow the triple-rinse method when disposing of empty pesticide containers (FAO, 2008) to avoid environmental contamination. Majority of farmers (87.25%) were unaware of the waiting period after pesticide application, paving the way for pesticide residue in market vegetable samples. All of the pesticide usage pattern findings revealed that a lot of interventions are needed to promote the safe and secure use of insecticides.\r\n','S. Vallarasu, A. Suganthi, S.V. Krishnamoorthy and H. Usha Nandhini Devi (2022). Farmer Perception and Pesticide usage Pattern in Snake gourd and Ridge gourd grown in Tamil Nadu. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 14(2a): 200-208.'),(5136,'134','Examining the Prospective zones for Maize and Sorghum in Tamil Nadu','Abinaya J.*, A. Janaki Rani, S. Kokilavani, M. Nirmala Devi and Gangaiselvi R.','34 Examining the Prospective zones for Maize and Sorghum in Tamil Nadu Abinaya J.pdf','',1,'An analytical study was conducted in Tamilnadu to determine the Efficient Cropping Zone for Maize and Sorghum crops. Ten years data (2010-2011 to 2020-2021) on Area, Production and Productivity for Maize and Sorghum Crops were collected From Directorate of Economics and Statistics, Government of India. Relative Spread Index (RSI) and Relative Yield Index (RYI) were worked out to determine the Most Efficient Cropping Zone. It was found that 9 districts in Tamil Nadu were identified as Effective cropping zone for Maize and 7 districts are Efficient Cropping Zone for Sorghum. Dindugal and Theni Districts of Tamil Nadu were identified as Most Effective Cropping Zone for Maize and Sorghum. In some districts, the RSI is higher for a particular crop but the RYI is lower, indicating that crop\'s unsuitability. However, because of things like market demand and produce value, farmers often plant crops that are inappropriate for their region which relates in high RSI with low RYI.','ECZ, RSI, RYI, Maize, Sorghum','In this context to Tamil Nadu state, Dindugal and Theni were found to be efficient cropping zone for both the crops (Maize and Sorghum). Suitable weather conditions prevailed in these regions further enhanced to occupy MCEZ. For MECZ High Climate Resilient Agricultural Practices for the concerned crops may be introduced to explore the high productivity which will prevent the crop from the loss due to the climate Variations. Under this Context the productivity goes towards Positive sides which will increases the economic status and livelihood of the Farming community. By identifying the efficient places for the cultivation of crops is very much useful to increase the productivity in order to meet the challenges of growing population. Adoption of recommended cultivation practices and Climate Resilient Practices in order to face the Climate change is the need of ours.','INTRODUCTION\r\nIn Tamil Nadu agriculture is the most predominant sector of the state economy, as 70% of the population is engaged in agriculture and allied activities for their livelihood. The state has as an area of 1.3 lakh sq.km with a gross cropped area of around 63 l.ha. Maize (Zea mays L.) is an important grain crop in India, and in Tamil Nadu, it is the second most significant crop after rice, which occupies 3.33 lakh hectares and sorghum (sorghum bicolor l. Moench), also known as great millet, is one of the important cereals of arid and semiarid regions occupies 4.5 lakh hectares (Sanbagavalli et al., 2020). \r\nCereal grains are grown in greater quantities than any other type of crop (Kokilavani & Geethalakshmi 2013). For crop development and productivity, agricultural efficiency is dependent on natural resources such as soil, water, fertilizers, minerals, and so on. Temperature, precipitation, soil, and the distribution of pests, insects, diseases, and weeds all have an impact on agricultural efficiency. These factors influence the overall agro-ecological setting for crop nutrition and efficiency (Kasar and Zolekar 2022). \r\nCrop productivity has to be increased and sustained, if efficient places for the crops have been identified. Variable climate, changes in rainfall patterns, groundwater depletion, shorter growing seasons, and cropping patterns have contributed to a spatial shift in crop potential throughout this age. Many numbers of climate resilient native crops have been replaced with new one and also the identification of potential crops and zones would help in increasing the productivity, ensures better utilization of available resources and avoids wastage of resources in the inefficient zones (Kokilavani and Dheebakaran 2019). As a result, new technologies have emerged that refer to both time and space sequences of crops, as well as the identification of the regions of most efficient crops. \r\nEfficient Cropping Zones (ECZ) is a methodology that uses calculated Relative Yield Index (RYI) and Relative Spread Index (RSI) to identify the crop\'s potential area, resulting in an efficient cropping zone (Veeraputhiran et al., 2003). By this we can identify the region suited for particular crops based on the findings of this study. If a crop does not fall within an efficient cropping zone, it can be replaced by other suitable crops with strong yield potential. Keeping all the things in view, the current research was under taken to determine the most efficient cropping zone for maize and sorghum in Tamil Nadu.\r\nMATERIAL AND METHODOLOGY\r\nAll the districts of Tamil Nadu were investigated for efficient cultivation zones for the crops maize and sorghum. Ten years 2010–11 to 2020–21(10 years) statistics on area, production, and productivity, as well as total cultivable area, were collected for Maize and Sorghum in districts of Tamil Nadu from Season and Crop Report and the Government of India Directorate of Economics and Statistics. The formula given by Kanwar (1972) was used to find out Relative Spread Index (RSI) and Relative Yield Index (RYI) for Maize and Sorghum to identify efficient crop zone for the Maize and Sorghum in all the districts of Tamil Nadu. The Relative Spread Index and Yield Index were worked out by using the following Formula’s.\r\nRESULT AND DISCUSSION\r\nA. Efficient Cropping Zone for Maize\r\nOut of all the districts in Tamil Nadu, 8 districts come under MECZ, followed by 10 districts come under YECZ, 6 districts come under AECZ and 7 districts come under NECZ for Maize.\r\nThe Most Efficient Cropping Zone (MECZ) with high RSI and RYI for maize was identified in the Tamil Nadu districts of Ariyalur, Erode, Dindugal, Perambalur, Salem, Theni, Thiruvallur, Thiruchirapalli, and Thiruppur, according to a review of maize crop area and productivity data (Table 1). The reason behind this was that the maize crop is well established, receiving adequate water throughout the growing stage, and the crop is more widely distributed among the farming population in these districts. These findings are in line with the findings of Kokilavani and Dheebakaran (2019). In these areas, both the RSI and the RYI were greater than 100 per cent. YECZ districts with high RYI and low RSI values include Coimbatore, Karur, Krishnagiri, Namakkal, Pudukkottai, Sivagangai, Thanjavur, Thiruvallur, Vellore, and Villupuram. Because the agricultural output in this location is high, improved extension approaches may be used to promote the crop, or the reasons for the poor spread may be investigated. It was suggested by Kokilavani and Geethalakshmi (2013) that Cuddalore, Dharmapuri, Madurai, Thoothukudi, Tirunelveli, and Virudhunagar be included in the Area Efficient Cropping Zone (AECZ), which has a high RSI and low RYI. Though the spread is high, the yield is low for enhancing the yield. Better technological interventions are needed to increase the yield in these areas. Kanchipuram, Kanniyakumari, Nagapattinam, Ramanathapuram, Nilgiris, Thiruvarur, and Thiruvannamalai are in the No Efficient Cropping Zone (NECZ). This shows that the crop is not suitable for the climatic conditions of this region. Hence, alternate crops with suitable climatic conditions were suggested.\r\nB. Efficient cropping zone for sorghum\r\nWith respect to sorghum crops in Tamil Nadu, 7 districts fell under MCEZ, 10 under YECZ and 5 under AECZ and 9 under NECZ. Dharmapuri, Dindugal, Madurai, Theni, Thiruchirapalli, Thoothukudi, and Viruthunagar were among the MECZs with high sorghum area and productivity. The adoption of new technology and more efficient use of available resources are the reasons for the high RSI and RYI. Districts with high RYI and low RSI include Ariyalur, Krishnagiri, Perambalur, Ramanathapuram, Thiruvallur, Thirunelveli, Thirvannamalai, Vellore, and Villupuram. It shows that the district\'s yield potential is strong, but the spread is low.As a result, some efforts need be done, mostly to enlarge the crop\'s area. AECZ includes Coimbatore, Karur, Namakkal, Salem, and Thiruppur. With low RSI and RYI, Cuddalore, Erode, Kanniyakumari, Kanchipuram, Nagapattinam, Pudukkottai, Thanjavur, Nilgiri, and Thiruvarur fall under the NECZ. With respect to sorghum crops in Tamil Nadu 7 districts fell under MECZ, 10 under YECZ and 5 districts under AECZ and 9 under NECZ.\r\n \r\n','Abinaya J., A. Janaki Rani, S. Kokilavani , M. Nirmala Devi and Gangaiselvi R. (2022). Examining the Prospective zones for Maize and Sorghum in Tamil Nadu. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 14(2a): 209-212.'),(5137,'134','Identification of Elite Rice Genotypes through Field Screening for Resistance against Yellow Stem Borer, Scirpophaga incertulas Walker (Crambidae: Lepidoptera)','Sampathkumar M.*, Ambethgar V., Anandhi P. and Suresh R.','35 Identification of Elite Rice Genotypes through Field Screening for Resistance against Yellow Stem Borer, Scirpophaga incertulas Walker _Crambidae Lepidoptera_ Sampathkumar M.pdf','',1,'Studies on screening of rice genotypes under natural field condition for identifying resistant entriesagainst Yellow Stem borer (YSB), Scirpophaga incertulas (Walker) (Crambidae: Lepidoptera) was carriedout at Tamil Nadu Rice Research Institute (TRRI), Aduthurai during 2021-2022. A total of fiftythreerice genotypes along with three standard check varieties which included two resistant check entries (TKM 6 and PTB 33) and one susceptible check entry (TN-1) of varying duration of 110-120 days were screened for yellow stem borer resistance. The damage intensity of YSB was recorded at vegetative stage on 30 and 45 days after transplanting (DAT) followed by reproductive stage on 60 and 75 DAT as per cent dead heart (DH) and white earhead (WEH) damage respectively and scoring was done by damage percentage and D-value based on Standard evaluation system given by International Rice Research Institute (IRRI). The experimental results shown that eight out of fifty three rice genotypes viz.,CO 51, CSR 27, WGL 14377, Altera, Navara, Palkichadi, Rajalaxmi, Rasakadam as well as resistant check PTB 33 expressed field resistance with minimum incidence against yellow stem borer at both vegetative and reproductive stages. Among the two resistant check varieties, TKM 6 shown high resistance with nil DH and WEH damage, followed by PTB 33 which expressed 2.50% DH and 2.17% WEH damage respectively, whereas TN 1 shown high susceptibility with registered very high degree of DH (43.56 %) and WEH (25.00 %) damage at vegetative and reproductive stages respectively. In terms of yield, CO 51 registered highest single hill grain yield (12.05 g/hill) followed by Rasakadam (11.90 g/hill), Palkichadi (11.43 g/hill), and TKM 6 (RC) (11.36 g /hill). The lowest single hill grain yield (6.45 g/ hill) was observed in TN 1 susceptible check.','Field screening, yellow stem borer, dead heart, white ear head, grain yield','The results derived from the present field study on screening of rice genotypes with four observations recorded at both vegetative and reproductive stages of the crop revealed that among fifty three genotypes screened, eight genotypes viz., Co 51, CSR 27, WGL 14377 Altera, Navara, Palkichadi, Rajalaxmi, Rasakadam along with PTB 33(RC) were found resistance while, check entry TN 1 (SC) expressed high susceptibility with highest YSB incidence with 43.56% DH and 25% WEH damage percentage. In contrast, check variety TKM 6 (RC) shown high degree of resistance with nil DHs and WEHs damage respectively at vegetative and reproductive stage of the rice crop. Highest single hill grain yield (12.05 g/hill) of rice was obtained in case of CO 51 followed by Rasakadam (11.90 g/hill), Palkichadi (11.43 g/hill), and TKM 6 (RC) (11.36 g /hill). The susceptible check (SC) TN 1 registered lowest grain yield of 6.45 g/hill. In conclusion, the afore said eight promising rice genotypes identified in the present study may be utilized for future confirmative screening programme against rice yellow stem borer for selecting cultivars tolerant to YSB injury, and thereby to mitigate yield loss under natural field condition.','INTRODUCTION\r\nRice (Oryza sativa L.) is an important cereal as well as staple food crop for more than two third of the population of the India and nearly half of the global population. India is world\'s second largest rice producer and consumer next to China (Heinrichs et al., 2017). India produced 116.42 million tonnes of rice on 44.5 million hectares out of the global total of 782 million tonnes on 167.1 million hectares (rainy season: 102.13 m t from 39.27 m ha) (rainyseason: 102.13 m t from 39.27 m ha) (FAO, 2020; GoI, 2020). Demand for rice is increasing with the increase in population and is expected to remain high in India in the future. Indian farmers facemultitude of hurdles in increasing productivity and quality of rice as a result of damage caused by a complex of insect pests (Chatterjee et al., 2020). Among them, rice yellow stem borer (YSB), Scirpophaga incertulas (Walker) (Crambidae: Lepidoptera) is considered as a majorthreat for economic crop loss in rice throughout the crop period from seedling to maturity. Feeding by stem borer inside the leaf sheath at the vegetative stage, leads to yellowing and drying of the youngest shoot, resulting in the formation of ‘dead-hearts (DHs)’. At the reproductive stage, stem borer feeding inside the stem results in panicles with unfilled grains called ‘white ear heads (WEHs)’ (Rubia et al., 1996). In fields, both types of injury can inflict enormous yield loss even up to 87.66 per cent when the crop is left unsprayed (Pallavi et al., 2017). In practical, even after the repeated application of insecticides, farmers found it difficult to manage YSB due to its cryptic behaviour and concealed internal feeding habit (Mishra et al., 1990; Rahaman and Stout 2019). The existing resistant rice genotypes are not stable to withstand the YSB attack in fields, because their reactions vary with location, climate, environmental conditions and biotic factors etc. (Panigrahi and Rajamani 2010; Sujay Pandey and Choubey 2011). Therefore, continuous evaluation and identification of resistant sources against this pest is necessary for maintaining stable production of rice as well as enhancing the livelihood of rice farmers.Because farmers cultivated insect pest-resistant cultivars on a small scale, due to less availability of resistance sources against insect pests (Kabir Eyidozehi et al., 2015). Thus Host plant resistance strategy is important in developing and selecting cultivars which are tolerant to pest injury, which in turn aid to mitigate yield loss inflicted by the stem borers. Hence, the present study was taken up with a prime objective to screen and identify the elite rice genotypes against yellow stem borer of rice.\r\nMATERIALS AND METHODS \r\nThe different categories of fifty three rice genotypes viz., released varieties, accessions and landraces (Table 1) along with check varieties which included two resistant checks such as, TKM 6 and PTB 33 and one susceptible check, TN 1 were screened against yellow stem borer during December 2021- March 2022 at Tamil Nadu Rice Research Institute, Aduthurai, Thanjavur District, Tamil Nadu situated at 79º 48′ E longitude and 10º 99′ N latitude with an altitude of 19.5 m MSL in the alluvial clay zone of Tamil Nadu. The experiment was laid out in Randomized Block Design with three replications. These different categories of rice genotypes were transplanted in two rows of ten hills each with one skip row between testentries with spacing of 20 × 15 cm2 (row to row and plant to plant) at single seedling per hill. For every five test entries, two rows of both the susceptible and resistant check entries were transplanted. All the recommended agronomic packages of practices were carried out during the experimentation exceptimposing plant protection measures such as insecticidal treatments. The pest infestation level was determined by counting the infested hills which shown dead heart and white ear head at vegetative and reproductive stages respectively adopting the scoring methods of IRRI (2013). The damage percentage was recorded at vegetative stage on 30 and 45 days after transplanting followed by reproductive stage on 60 and 75 days after transplanting by means of counting dead heart and white ear head respectively. These observations were recorded from randomly selected ten hills of each genotype by recording total unaffected tiller and affected tillers such as dead hearts and white ear heads. The damage percentage and D - value was calculated by using the formula given by Heinrichs et al. (1985). In addition, scoring was done based on Standard Evaluation System given by International Rice Research Institute, Philippines (IRRI, 2013).\r\nRESULTS AND DISCUSSION\r\nIn the present investigation, varying degree of resistance with different categories of rice genotypes against YSBbased on per cent dead heart (DHs) and white head (WEHs) were screened. The YSB incidence started from 30 DAT and the pest intensity was found to be boosted gradually up to 75 DAT, then it began to decrease with the maturity of the crop. The YSB damage was recorded at 30, 45, 60 and 75 DAT in term of damage percentage at vegetative and reproductive \r\nstage by means of counting DHs (Fig. 1) and WEHs (Fig. 2) respectively. The results provided in Table 3 and 4 indicated that the test genotypes were found to express varying degreeof resistance and susceptibility against of YSB according to the damage intensity. Accordingly, the resistant check entry TKM 6 used in this study expressed nil DHs and WEHs at respective vegetative and reproductive stages of the rice crop, withstanding its reality of resistance under field condition.\r\nExtent of dead heart (DHs) damage recorded at vegetative stage. The observations on the incidence of yellow stem borer in the terms of dead heart damage percentage were recorded on 30 DAT and 45 DAT at vegetative stage.The mean results of these two observations at vegetative stage revealed that the rice varieties ADT 36, ADT 48, ADT 57, Anna (R) 4, CO 51, CSR 27, MDU 5, NLR 34449, WGL 14377 and rice accessions AD 18006, AD 18035 and landraces Aanaikomban, Altera, Bhavani, Chithiraikar, Chinnapunchai, Navara, Palkichadi, Rajalaxmi, Rasakadam along with PTB 33 (RC) shown resistance against yellow stem borer with receiving minimum damage percentage of less than 10 % damage as well as less D-Value of below 20 %. The check entry TKM 6 (RC) had shown nil dead heart damage whereas the highest damage was noticed in TN 1 (SC) (43.56 %) at vegetative stage of the rice crop (Table 3).\r\nExtent of white ear headdamage recorded at reproductive stage. The incidence of yellow stem borer in the terms of white ear head damage percentage was recorded on 60 DAT and 75 DAT at reproductive stage. The mean results of these two observations at reproductive stage shown that the rice varieties CO 51, CSR 27, WGL 14377 as well as landraces Altera, Navara, Palkichadi, Rajalaxmi, Rasakadamalong with PTB 33 (RC) shown resistance against yellow stem borer with receiving minimum damage percentage of less than 5 % damage as well as less D-value of below 10 %. The check entry TKM 6 (RC) had shown nil white head damage whereas the highest damage percentage was noticed in TN 1 (SC) (25.00%) at reproductive stage of the rice crop (Table 4). \r\nSusceptibility/resistance status of different rice genotypes against YSB. The observations on the incidence of yellow stem borer in the terms of damage percentage were recorded on 30 and 45 DAT at vegetative stage followed by 60 and 75 DAT at reproductive stage by means of recording dead heart and white ear head damage percentage. A perusal of the overall results revealed that the rice genotypes CO 51, CSR 27, WGL 14377, Altera, Navara, Palkichadi, Rajalaxmi, Rasakadam as well as PTB 33 (RC) expressed field resistance with minimum incidence of yellow stem borer at both vegetative and reproductive stage of the rice crop.The highest yellow stem borer incidence was occurred in TN 1 (SC) with 43.56 % DH and 25 % WEH damage. In contrast resistant entry TKM 6 shown nil dead heart and white ear head damage at both the vegetative and reproductive stages (Table 3 and 4 and Fig. 3).\r\nEffect of mean WEH incidence of YSB on grain yield in different rice genotypes. The results on the incidence of YSB on grain yield in different rice genotypes are presented in (Table 5 and Fig. 4). Highest single hill grain yield (12.05 g/hill) of rice was obtained in case of CO 51 followed by Rasakadam (11.90 g/hill), Palkichadi (11.43 g/hill), and TKM 6 (RC) (11.36 g /hill). The lowest single hill grain yield (6.45 g/ hill) was observed in TN 1 (SC).Single hill yield of grains in the different genotypes of rice was expressed in decreasing order of: CO 51 (12.05 g/hill) >Rasakadam (11.90 g/hill) > Palkichadi (11.43 g/hill) >TKM 6 (RC) (11.36 g/hill) > PTB 33 (RC) (11.01 g/hill) >CSR 27 (10.73 g/hill) >Rajalaxmi (10.70 g/hill) >Navara (10.38 g/hill) > WGL 14377 (9.91 g/hill) > Altera (9.63 g/hill) > TN 1 (SC) (6.45 g/hill) in the present studies conducted under natural field conditions. The present study revealed that the resistant entries shown less stem borer damage percentage at reproductive stage with high single hill grain yield than susceptible entries.\r\nSimilarly, many researchers screened numerous rice genotypes which included various varieties, accessions/ cultures and landraces under natural field conditions to identify the novel donor for resistance against YSB. In prior studies, Rakesh et al. (2021); Anil Varma Nalla et al. (2020); Reuolin et al. (2019); Rajadurai et al. (2017); Elanchezhyan et al. (2017) and Preetha (2010) screened various sources rice varieties/lines/landraces along with susceptible check entry as TN 1 and resistant checks with TKM 6 and PTB 33 against this stem borer and found some ricevarieties/lines showntolerance to YSB infestation in the respective locations. Moreover these results revealed that same entries exhibited different level of resistance status at vegetative and reproductive stages of the rice crop which confirmed with previous findings of earlier workers (Singh and Pandey 1997) who reported that the rice genotypes which resistant to YSB attack at vegetative stage are not necessarily resistant at reproductive stage and vice versa. Theresistant rice genotypes derived from various sources may be utilized for future screening programme of rice yellow stem borer to select most promising genotypes.\r\n','Sampathkumar M., Ambethgar V., Anandhi P. and Suresh R. (2022). Identification of Elite Rice Genotypes through Field Screening for Resistance against Yellow Stem Borer, Scirpophaga incertulas Walker (Crambidae: Lepidoptera). Biological Forum – An International Journal, 14(2a): 213-219.'),(5138,'134','Aphis craccivora (Koch): A Potent Transmitter of Urdbean Leaf Crinkle Virus in Blackgram [Vigna mungo (L.) Hepper]','Khaviya Bala, Shanthi M.*, Murugan M., Srinivasan G., Kalpana K. and Mini M.L.','36 Aphis craccivora _Koch_ A Potent Transmitter of Urdbean Leaf Crinkle Virus in Blackgram [Vigna mungo _L._ Hepper] Khaviya Bala.pdf','',1,'Urdbean Leaf Crinkle Virus (ULCV-unclassified virus), a virus with uncharacterized etiology has turned out to be a threat to blackgram (Vigna mungo L.). There are conflicting reports on the transmission of ULCV through pulse aphid (Aphis craccivora). This study evinced that A. craccivora is a potent insect vector in transmitting ULCV in blackgram. The optimum number of aphids capable of transmitting Urdbean Leaf Crinkle Disease (ULCD) was 15 or more leading to 77.78 to 88.89 per cent of disease transmission. The disease transmission was 88.89 per cent when given the acquisition feeding time of 10 minutes and 55.56 per cent when the inoculation feeding period offered was 10 minutes, however, after 15 minutes, there was a declining phase in transmission. Pre-acquisition fasting of 60 minutes and post-acquisition period of 20 minutes resulted in 77.78 percent disease transmission. The data on the transmission of ULCV and its inflicted symptoms on host plants can be utilized effectively to manage ULCD before resulting to yield losses. ','Blackgram, Leaf crinkle virus, Vector Transmission, Pulse Aphid','This research on insect vector-virus relationship will ensure in prescribing preventive measures in controlling the ULCD and further studies on the etiology of virus in future might help in developing Anti-viral principles and vector targeting insecticides. ','INTRODUCTION\r\nBlackgram (Vigna mungo Linn. Hepper), the highly prized pulse crop, valued for its easily digestible protein in seeds (Tagger et al. 2012), is a native to India. An important short-duration Leguminosae crop grown in 23 countries, is cultivated in an area of 36.44 lakh ha with a production of 19.64 lakh tonnes. In India, a greater emphasis is given to enhance pulse production to cater to the protein needs of the vast vegetarian population. One such crop that received yield improvement attention is blackgram, however, whose yield is at stake due to innumerable biotic stresses perceived and within which the Urdbean leaf crinkle viral disease (ULCD) tops the list with a reported yield loss of 70 to 100 depending on the genotype, environmental conditions (Ashfaq et al., 2008) and plant age (Beniwal and Chaubey 1979). The ULCV has been a global threat in blackgram cultivable regions (Beniwal and Chaubey 1979) especially, in the tropics (Sravika et al., 2018). The ULCV inflicts loss by lamina rugosity, curled, puckered, and crinkled leaves, stunted internodal growth, and bud and pod malformation (Nene, 1968; Kolte and Nene 1972; Reddy et al., 2005; Brar and Rataul 1987) and deter pollen fertility. In addition, the crop is subjected to several infestations by insects during each successive stage of crop growth (Tagger et al., 2012). The black legume or cowpea aphid, A. craccivora is one of the important pests of blackgram and is normally seen in myriads covering leaves, inflorescence stalk, and young pods with honeydew secretion and black ant movements. Cowpea aphid infestation between the 10-leaf stage and tasseling caused 28.14 per cent yield losses (average aphid density 818 aphids/plant); while infestation through ripening stages caused 16.28 per cent yield losses (average aphid density 1038 aphids/plant) (Jain et al., 2013).\r\nPotential means of Transmission of ULCV are through mechanical sap transmission (Biswas et al., 2012), also as seed-borne (Kanimozhi et al., 2009) and by insect vectors such as aphids (Sravika et al., 2018), whitefly (Narayanasamy and Jaganathan 1973), beetles (Beniwal and Bharathan 1980). ULCV in aphids appeared to be non-persistent according to Bhardwaj and Dubey (1986). Sravika et al. (2018) reported 83.3 per cent transmission of ULCD in blackgram by A. craccivora. It is intriguing to note that literature has revealed conflicting reports on the transmission of ULCV by insects and especially by the cowpea aphid (A. craccivora). Thus, the current study has aimed to evaluate the transmission efficacy of ULCV by A. craccivora in blackgram.\r\nMATERIALS AND METHODS\r\nUnless otherwise specified the study was conducted in the Insectary of Department of Agricultural Entomology, Agricultural College and Research Institute, Tamil Nadu Agricultural University (TNAU), Madurai, India located at 9°5831N and 78°1228 E during the month of May 2019.\r\nInsect rearing. Pulse aphids (A. craccivora) were field collected from healthy cowpea and blackgram crops from Theni and Madurai districts of Tamil Nadu, India. The stalks blooming with apterous adults of aphids were excised from the plant and carefully transferred to the research arena in small plastic boxes provided with ventilation to avoid desiccation of the sample. Each apterous matriarchal aphid was isolated using a camel brush and reared in separate insect-proof cages (wooden frames with dimensions of 150 cm x 150 cm x 75 cm designed with nylon mesh of 100-micron mesh size covered in three sides, a wooden platform, and a glass top and door) containing a healthy potted local variety of cowpea (Vigna unguiculata) plant aged 7 days after sowing (DAS) (Jaba et al., 2010) and the emerged young ones were weekly transferred to a healthy host (Imam, 2015) in insect-proof cages.\r\nVirus maintenance. The blackgram plants possessing the ULCD symptoms were tagged in the field at National Pulses Research Centre (NPRC), TNAU, Vamban, Tamil Nadu, and used for the collection of ULCV-infected fresh trifoliate leaves. Field collected fresh ULCV diseased leaves of blackgram were preserved in the deep freezer under -20°C until processing. The leaves weighing 1 g were then blended in a pestle and mortar using 5 ml of 0.05 M potassium phosphate buffer in cold conditions. The desired buffer was prepared by adding 8.9 ml of Solution A and 61.1 ml of Solution B. [Preparation of Solution A – 0.05 M 2.335 g of dipotassium hydrogen phosphate in 500 ml of distilled water. Preparation of Solution B- 1.575 g of potassium dihydrogen orthophosphate in 500 ml of distilled water]. In the process of blending, 0.1 per cent of mercaptoethanol was added to the buffer. The extracted sap was rubbed on healthy potted plants of 7 days old blackgram (variety T 9; susceptible check purchased from local market) (Sharma et al., 2014) with a pinch of carborundum to cause abrasion on leaf lamina. After 5 to 10 minutes, the treated leaves were washed with distilled water using a hand sprayer. The symptoms appeared in the successive trifoliate leaves after inoculation in 15 to 20 days. These plants were maintained as virus inoculum for further studies in the insect-proof cages.\r\nDetermination of Transmission efficiency of A. craccivora. For assessing the ULCD transmission through A. craccivora, healthy T9 blackgram plants were grown and maintained in screen houses. The virus-free healthy seeds were sown in earthen pots (20 cm diameter) soiled with coco pith, vermiculite, properly fertilized, and watered regularly. Around three to five seeds were sown in each pot and after 14 days inferior seedlings were thinned leaving a healthy seedling behind per pot. Each grown plant was secured with an insect-proof nylon mesh cover of 100-micron mesh size to maintain an insect and virus-free plant culture.\r\nIn the forthcoming delineated controlled laboratory experiments, unless mentioned, the apterous matured aphids were given the acquisition access period of 10 minutes by exposing the aphids to the abaxial surface of the ULCV diseased leaf placed over a moist blotting paper on a Petri plate, after subjecting aphids to 60 minutes pre starvation. The aphids which were seen probing were used for the trials in 2-leaf staged blackgram T9 (susceptible variety to ULCD) plants. Six plants were tested for each replication. The experiment was replicated thrice. After each trial, the aphids were killed using insecticide and the tested plants were covered with insect-proof nylon mesh (100-micron mesh size). The results were visualised after 15 days as the plants expressed crinkling symptoms thenceforth. Control for each experiment was maintained with non-viruliferous aphids. The percentage of infection was calculated by the formula (Sravika et al., 2018):\r\n \r\n To determine the optimum number of viruliferous aphids required for transmission. Pre-starved animate aphids were given an acquisition feeding for 10 minutes on ULCD infected leaves placed in Petri dishes on moist blotting paper. The aphids seen probing were considered viruliferous aphids. The test insects were then transferred to healthy blackgram plants varying the number of aphids as 1, 2, 5, 10, 20, and 25 for each trial (Sravika et al., 2018). After providing the inoculation period of 10 minutes, the test insects were killed using insecticide. The treatments were replicated thrice. For each replication, six test plants of T9 blackgram were used. Non-viruliferous aphids were used in the mock test (control). The results were visualised after 15 days as the plants expressed crinkling symptoms.\r\nTo determine the required pre- acquisition fasting of viruliferous aphids for transmission. Non- viruliferous aphids were subjected to varied pre- acquisition fasting of 0, 10, 15, 30, 60, 90, 120, and 240 minutes and divided into batches. Each batch consisted of 10 aphids. The latter were given 10 minutes of acquisition feeding period and transferred to the healthy test plants. The test insects were then subjected to 10 minute inoculation period (Sravika et al., 2018). Then the test insects were killed after the feeding on the host plants. The treatments were replicated thrice. For each replication six plants of T9 blackgram were used. Control trials were conducted as mentioned above. The results were visualised after 15 days as the plants expressed crinkling symptoms.\r\nTo determine the acquisition threshold of A. craccivora. Pre-starved animate aphids were given an acquisition feeding for 1, 2, 5, 10, 15, 30, 60, 120, and 240 minutes on ULCD infected leaves. Then each batch of 10 numbers of viruliferous aphids was given the acquisition feeding period as mentioned above and transferred to healthy blackgram plants for each trial and given the inoculation period of 10 minutes (Sravika et al., 2018). The test insects in every trial plant were killed using the insecticide. The experiments were replicated thrice. For each replication six plants of T9 blackgrams were used. Control trials were conducted as mentioned above. The test insects in every trial plant were killed using the insecticide. The results were visualised after 15 days as the plants express crinkling symptoms.\r\nTo determine the post-acquisition fasting of viruliferous aphids required for transmission. Aphids given the pre-starvation of 60 minutes and acquisition feeding for 10 minutes were divided into groups consisting of 10 matured aphids. Each batch was subjected to varied post- acquisition fasting of 0, 10, 20, 40, 80, 120, 160, and 240 minutes and then transferred to healthy test plants. They were provided with an inoculation period of 10 minutes in the test plants (Sravika et al., 2018). Each treatment was replicated thrice (Six test plants were used in each replication). Control trials were conducted as mentioned above. Then the test insects were killed using insecticide after feeding in the host plants. The results were visualised after 15 days as the plants express crinkling symptoms.\r\nTo determine the inoculation threshold of A. craccivora\r\nEach batch consisting 10 pre-starved animate viruliferous aphids was given an inoculation feeding for 1, 5, 10, 15, 30, 60, 120, and 240 minutes on ULCD infected leaves (Sravika et al., 2018) and an inoculation access period of 10 minutes on healthy test plants (T9 blackgram). Then, the viruliferous aphids used in treatments were killed and the control was maintained as mentioned above. The experiments were replicated thrice (six test plants for each replication). The results were observed after 15 days of inoculation as the symptom occurred thenceforth.\r\nStatistical Data Analysis. All the experiments were conducted under Completely Randomized Block Design (CRBD). Data were statistically analyzed using SPSS for Windows (version 22) (IBM Corp 2013) software to carry out ANOVA. Grouping of data was done using Tukey’s HSD (Honestly Significant Difference) test (Tukey, 1977).\r\nRESULT\r\nThe test insect, A. craccivora has been proven to transmit ULCD in blackgram efficiently in a non-persistent manner with considerable variation in the optimum number of viruliferous aphids needed to transmit the disease/plant, pre-starvation period, inoculation feeding period, and acquisition feeding period. The confirmation of the transmission of ULCD through A. craccivora was determined from the observation of crinkling symptoms in the successive trifoliate leaves of test plants after the inoculation of virus isolates by probing of viruliferous A. craccivora adults. \r\nIn regards to the optimum number of aphids efficient in transmitting the ULCV disease, it was proven that about five viruliferous aphids were capable of transmitting the disease up to 33.33 per cent (Table 1). The transmission of disease increased with the increase in the number of viruliferous aphids. There was a significant increase in disease transmission up to 88.89 per cent for 25 viruliferous aphids (Table 1). \r\nDisease transmission of 33.33 per cent was witnessed from one minute of the acquisition feeding period. The data revealed that the maximum disease transmission of 88.89 per cent was observed when the acquisition feeding time was 10 minutes, which eventually dwindled to 11.11 per cent, and zero per cent transmission when given the acquisition feeding period of 120 and 240 minutes, respectively (Table 2). \r\nThe inoculation feeding of five minutes resulted in 11.11 per cent of disease transmission in the host plant which hiked up to 55.56 per cent of disease transmission for 10 and 15 minutes of the inoculation feeding period. Later, a decline in disease transmission was witnessed with the increase in the inoculation feeding period. There was zero transmission of disease when given the inoculation time exceeding 60 minutes (Table 3).\r\nAccording to the pre-acquisition fasting trial data, zero per cent of disease transmission was noted when the aphids were given zero pre-acquisition fasting period. This transmission of disease had escalated gradually from 22.22, 55.56, 66.67, and 77.78 per cent given the pre-acquisition fasting for 10, 15, 30, and 60 minutes, respectively (Table 4). The disease transmission was found to diminish as the pre-acquisition fasting exceeded 60 minutes i.e. with pre-acquisition fasting of 90, 120, and 240 minutes, the transmission dropped from 11.11 to 0.00 per cent (Table 4).\r\nDistinguishable transmission of disease of about 33.33 per cent was observed when given the post-acquisition period of zero minutes. The vector transmission of the disease was notably increased by 44.44 and 77.78 per cent with an increase in the post-acquisition period of 20 and 40 minutes, respectively. There was a significant decline in disease transmission of 66.67, 33.33, 11.11, and 0.00 per cent with 40, 80, 120, and 160 minutes of post-acquisition period respectively (Table 5). \r\nDISCUSSION\r\nThe above study evinced that the test insect vector, pulse aphid, A. craccivora has the potential to transmit ULCD (Dhingra 1975; Dhingra and Chenulu 1981; Bhardwaj and Dubey 1986; Brar and Rataul 1987; Sravika et al. 2018). The insect vector was capable of transmitting the virus isolates when given the acquisition access period of one minute and the inoculation feeding period of five minutes in the plants that served as the virus inoculum. Though, the transmission efficiency had increased when the pre-acquisition fasting was given for 60 minutes. \r\nThe aphids, when given with the acquisition feeding period exceeding 15 minutes had shown a decline in disease transmission and this might have been a cause of insect vector stylet’s having been free from pathogen due to re-ensheathment and proving the vector to be non-persistently transmitting the ULCV. The above-mentioned report was supported by Khurana et.al. (1973) and Bhardwaj and Dubey (1986), concerning the re-ensheathment mechanism aiding the aphids to be a non-persistent vector transmitter.\r\nIn the present study, 15 to 25 aphids were efficient in transmitting the disease (77.78-88.89 %). Corresponding results were given by Sravika et al. (2018), in which 10 numbers or more numbers of aphids were required for maximum transmission of disease. On contrary, Dhingra and Chenulu (1981) reported that the maximum disease transmission was achieved with 10 viruliferous aphids. The study was supported by Nageswas Rao (2002) who stated that a single viruliferous adult of pulse aphid given the acquisition period of 2 min and inoculation access period of 24 h could transmit ULCV but the maximum transmission was achieved by 10 viruliferous/plant with the pre- starvation period of 60 min, acquisition period of 2 min and inoculation access period of 24.\r\nIn the research conducted, 10 minutes of acquisition feeding period was efficient in achieving 88.89 per cent. Contradictory findings on the acquisition feeding period by Dhingra and Chenulu (1981) whose reports suggested that an acquisition access period of 30 seconds to 2 minutes was successful in transmitting ULCD.\r\nThis study proved that 10 numbers of aphids given the acquisition feeding period and inoculation feeding time of 10 minutes was efficient in ULCD transmission. Whereas, the reports of Kumar and Subha Rao (1994) proved that acquisition feeding period of 2 minutes and inoculation feeding time of 10 minutes were efficient in disease transmission by 10 numbers of aphids.\r\nA number of 15 or more viruliferous pulse aphids are efficient in inflicting ULCD (77.78 to 88.89 %) in blackgram provided the pre-starvation period of 60 min, an acquisition and inoculation feeding period of 10 min. The post acquisition period of 20 mins was more effective resulting in 77.78 per cent disease incidence, which gradually declined with increase in post acquisition period. The research conducted in determining whether A. craccivora is a putative insect vector in transmitting Urdbean leaf crinkle viral disease \r\n(ULCD) on blackgram turned out to be positive. The knowledge on studies on the transmission of ULCD on blackgram (T9 cv.) by A. craccivora can be implemented to practice effective methods of management of ULCD’s spread through application of insecticides that targets insect vectors and also to find remedies in inhibiting the virus replication in host plants.\r\n','Khaviya Bala, Shanthi M., Murugan M., Srinivasan G., Kalpana K. and Mini M.L. (2022). Aphis craccivora (Koch): A Potent Transmitter of Urdbean Leaf Crinkle Virus in Blackgram [Vigna mungo (L.) Hepper]. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 14(2a): 220-226.'),(5139,'134','Suitability of Hive Wood Type for Italian Honeybee (Apis mellifera L.)','A. Aishwarya, M. R. Srinivasan*, A. Suganthi and R. Krishnan','37 Suitability of Hive Wood Type for Italian Honeybee _Apis Mellifera L._ A. Aishwarya.pdf','',1,'Bees are essential to the pollination of many flowering plants. Plant productivity can be significantly impacted by any natural or human-made event that endangers honey bee life. The structure and composition of the hive are essential to the growth and development of the colony. The majority of the materials used to construct beehives are wood. It is crucial to select a sturdy wood because it must withstand the environment and last for multiple seasons. This study investigates the effects of different wood materials used for making hives for Italian bees and how these may influence colony performance. Five different wood species with three replications were selected, Teak (Tectona grandis), Acacia (Acacia nilotica), Malabar Neem or Malai Vembu (Melia dubia), Rubber (Hevea brasiliensis), and Vagai (Albizia lebbeck). Factors such as brood development, sealed honey storage and pollen storage were selected as parameters of hive growth and development. Statistically, each hive type produced significant variation (p< 0.05) except for M. dubia which was on par with A. lebbeck. The greatest overall productivity across all factors was for hives made of T. grandis, with increase in sealed brood area (17.62%), honey production (10.56%) and pollen storage area (17.12%) in comparison with the standard wood type A. lebbeck. The temperature and humidity maintained inside the hives were also recorded which showed statistically no significant difference except for M. dubia. Based on the cost of wood and weight of each of the hives, M. dubia was found to be light in weight and more economical than other wood types and highly suitable for migratory beekeeping. ','Hive; wood species; Italian honeybees; brood development; thermoregulation; Honey production','The study concludes that the type of wood hive significantly influenced colony performance. Although hive made of Teak wood (T. grandis) was found to be performing well under the given conditions, but due to its high cost and weight, it cannot be preferred for low budget beekeeping. On the other hand, among all other wood species, A. lebbeck has been widely used by beekeeping farmers due to its low cost and durability. From the current study, we can suggest M. dubia wood as an alternate to A. lebbeck, since its performance was on par with the latter and comparatively the lightest wood and more economical than the other wood types. So, the hives made of M. dubia can be recommended to farmers due to their durability, lightness, good ventilation and heat insulation. Since the development and expansion of the bee colony depend greatly on the selection of suitable wood materials for the construction of the hive, further studies will be helpful in understanding the thermal qualities of various wood types and their effect on colony growth parameters.','INTRODUCTION\r\nApis mellifera L., or the Italian honey bees, is a scientifically and commercially important species. They help pollinate wild flora and crops while also providing direct income to beekeepers who harvest honey and other hive products from managed colonies. Beekeeping is a nature-dependent system that is primarily influenced by climate and vegetation. The Langstroth beehive is a popular choice for beekeepers all around the world. However, environmental problems, particularly extreme hot or cold weather, have prompted several researchers to propose changes to the traditional beehive. Honeybee efficiency is influenced by genotype, internal hive parameters, and external environmental factors like temperature and humidity (Abou-Shaara et al., 2012; Abou-Shaara, 2014). Honey bees are noted for their ability to keep their nest temperatures somewhere in the range of 33 and 36 degrees Celsius (Petz et al., 2004; Cook et al., 2021). The regulation takes place through a cooling or heating behaviour for which a specific thermally activated receptor has been identified in the flagellum of the antenna of bees (Kohno et al., 2010). Extreme weather, on the other hand, has a negative impact on honey bee workers\' ability to undertake thermoregulation within the colony. As a result, materials that can isolate heat and humidity can be used to make the hive more comfortable for honey bee populations (Yaser, 2019). \r\nDespite the fact that there is a lot of study on apiculture around the world, there are few studies on hive types and hive building materials, both of which are critical for beekeeping. One such is the hives built of various materials, including wooden, polystyrene, and composite insulated hives, were utilised to investigate the influence of these materials on colony growth (Yasar, 2019). Hive materials had a big impact on colony factors such as temperature, humidity, honey storage, and pollen storage. The aim of this study is to assess how effective the hive making materials are on the physiological and behavioural characteristics of honeybees and which wood material would be the most ideal.\r\n\r\n \r\nMATERIALS AND METHOD\r\nThis research was performed at the Insectary of Department of Agricultural Entomology, Tamil Nadu Agricultural University, India (11.016°N latitude, 76.929°E longitude, and 411 m altitude), Spring and Summer seasons of 2022. Modified Langstroth Beehive having shallow super chamber and seven frames was used in the study. Body thickness of the Langstroth hive was 25 mm; external dimension of the brood chamber was 505 × 325 × 258 mm. The external dimension of brood frames was 470 × 250 mm. And the external dimension of the super chamber and super frames were 505 × 325 × 150 mm and 470 × 140 mm respectively. The hives were placed in a stand at height 0.5m from the ground level under shade. For this study, the hives were made of T1-Teak (Tectona grandis), T2- Acacia (Gum arabic) (Acacia nilotica), T3- Malai Vembu (Melia dubia), T4- Rubber (Hevea brasiliensis), T5- Vaagai (Albizia lebbeck) and each having three replications. The hives made of Albizia lebbeck was kept as standard wood to compare the other types with it. The colonies composed of similarly-aged queens were introduced into these hives and were equalised to four frames having sealed brood. Additional frames with comb foundation sheet were given to hives based on the development of colony. The areas for the sealed brood, honey and stored pollen were measured using a Langstroth frame divided into square centimetres at 14-day intervals.\r\nIn this study, the daily humidity and temperature data in the hive and apiary were recorded for two weeks in April. Daily temperature and humidity values inside the hives and apiary were noted down at 13:00 hours. DHRUV-PROMini LCD External Temp/RH data loggers were used to determine the temperature and humidity in the hive and apiary. The external probe of the data logger was put in the centre of the hive, between the frames and in order to determine the temperature and humidity values in the apiary, the data logger was placed in the shade.\r\nThe weight of the empty hive consisting of bottom board, brood chamber, super chamber, inner and outer lid were measured for all three replications of each wood type and the mean weight was calculated. The difference in hive weights were proportionate to the density of the wood types, as the volume of wood used was the same for all the hives (as density=mass/volume).\r\nThe experiment was set up according to a factorial completely randomized design (FCRD) containing three blocks with the treatments distributed randomly within these blocks. All data were analysed using ANOVA and LSD test was used to compare the means. The significance level was taken as p < 0.05 in all analyses. Correlation analysis and test for significance were performed between hive temperature/hive relative humidity and colony growth parameters. \r\nRESULTS AND DISCUSSION\r\nThe primary factor in assessing colony development is the size of the brood area. When examining the growth of the brood area over six periods at fortnightly intervals (Table 1), it was seen that the honeybee colonies in hives made of T. grandis wood had the development of brood area rate of 17.62% more than the hives of standard wood, A. lebbeck. The mean brood area of hives made of A. lebbeck and M. dubia wood showed no statistically significant difference; however, they showed significant differences with respect to hives made of H. brasiliensis and A. nilotica (p< 0.05). The maximum nectar flow occurred in April, which coincided with the highest brood production period. Neupane and Thapa (2005) reported that the production of bee brood was the highest during spring followed by summer, autumn, winter and lowest during the rainy season.\r\nThe results for the honey production by A. mellifera L. are presented in Table 2. This study showed that the honeybee colonies in T. grandis wood hives were capable of storing about 10.56% more honey than in standard hive made of A. lebbeck wood. On the other hand, no significant difference in sealed honey were\r\nobserved in colonies housed in hives made of A. lebbeck and M. dubia woods. However, when compared with H. brasiliensis and A. nilotica, it showed significant difference in the mean values of stored honey (p< 0.05). This result agrees with a study conducted by Richard and Simon (2021), in which they reported bee hives made from T. grandis wood performed very well in terms of honey, beeswax and propolis yield. The honey storage was found varying over the period of observation due to commencement of nectar flow. During early February, the stored honey area was found to be less with mean value of 351.07 cm2 and there was about five-fold increase in honey storage by the mid of April.\r\nThe results for the pollen storage in the hives by A. mellifera L. are presented in Table 3. The average amount of pollen hoarded per colony in T. grandis wood hive was found to be 17.12% more than A. lebbeck wood hive. The mean pollen storage values of A. lebbeck and M. dubia wood hives showed no statistically significant effect; however, they showed significant differences with respect to hives made of H. brasiliensis and A. nilotica (p< 0.05). The average pollen store at the beginning of study was about 56.73 cm2 which then increased seven times by mid-April; and this was presumably due the nectar flow period. Neupane and Thapa (2005) reported that the amount of pollen stored as beebread was the highest during spring season lowest in rainy season. The pollen collection by honeybee and its storage in the hive is important as it directly influences the colony development in different aspects (Schmickl and Crailsheim, 2002; Omar et al., 2016; Stephen and Robert, 2000).\r\nThe elements impacting honey production include the climate and weather conditions, the number of worker bees in the colony, the age of the queen, the health of the colony, the density of flowers in the field, the time when the nectar flows and the number of colonies in the area. The nectar that honey bees bring into the hive must be stored safely without being consumed. The consumption of honey reserves is increased by unfavourable hive conditions and environmental factors. Honey bees regulate the temperature and humidity in their hives to maintain the brood area temperature at 33–36°C. To obtain the energy they need for this task, honey bees consume honey. As a result, less honey is stored in the hive (Kronenberg and Heller, 1982). As wooden hives are traditionally used for beekeeping, so the temperature and humidity retention by the wood plays a major role. The temperature and humidity recorded inside the hive made of different wood types and in the apiary is shown in Table 4 and its correlation with brood development and honey storage are given in Table 5. The internal temperature between the frames was recorded highest in hive made of M. dubia (35.1°C) and there was no significant difference in temperature in hives made of \r\nother wood types. It was observed that the temperature in the empty hives (without bees and combs) was around 31.2°C except in M. dubia (32.5°C). This indicates that the higher temperature in the hives made of M. dubia wood was significantly influential in reducing the work load on honey bees in thermoregulation. The temperature was non-significantly positively correlated with brood area and honey storage, which means that the increase in temperature leads to increase in brood development. Since, the temperature in M. dubia was higher than other hives, it would have aided in better brood development. The humidity inside the hive between the frame was recorded lowest in M. dubia (57%) whereas highest in A. lebbeck (73%); however, there was no significant difference in humidity when measured from empty hives (without bees and combs). The relative humidity was non-significantly negatively correlated with the brood area and honey storage, meaning that lower the RH inside the hive, higher is the brood development. In the hives made of M. dubia, the RH was lower and this could be a reason for higher brood development when compared to the hives made of other wood types. Yasar (2019) reported that the number of brood area, the amount of honey stored, the likelihood to become aggressive, and the amount of flight activity were all influenced by the temperature and humidity levels in the hive. If heat insulation and air circulation of the hives are good, the workload of honey bees is reduced and their efficiency increases (Yasar, 2019).\r\nThe average weight and cost of different wood types are given in Table 6. It can be observed that Melia dubia wood hive weighed the lightest (10.19 Kg) whereas, Acacia nilotica was found to be the heaviest (17.63 Kg). As hives are made of different wood materials, the entire weight of the empty hive must be taken into consideration. This is due to the reason that heavy hives are difficult to carry at migratory beekeeping. From a study conducted by Bradbear (2009), it was found that the choice of wood species for hive construction must be given due consideration in order to get the required benefit. \r\n','A. Aishwarya, M. R. Srinivasan, A. Suganthi and R. Krishnan (2022). Suitability of Hive Wood Type for Italian Honeybee (Apis mellifera L.). Biological Forum – An International Journal, 14(2a): 227-231.'),(5140,'134','Influence of weather parameters on seasonal occurrence of aphids and Cucurbit aphid-borne yellows virus (CABYV) on bitter gourd, Momordica charantia L.','S. Sathiya Priya*, M. Suganthy, M. Murugan and P. Renukadevi','38 Influence of weather parameters on seasonal occurrence of aphids and Cucurbit aphid-borne yellows virus _CABYV_ on bitter gourd, Momordica charantia L. S. Sathiya Priya.pdf','',1,'Seasonal occurrence of aphids and the Cucurbit aphid-borne yellows virus in bitter gourd was studied at Tamil Nadu Agricultural University, Coimbatore, Tamil Nadu from January to April, 2022. Aphids not only damaged the bitter gourd crop by sucking the sap, but also served as vector of Cucurbit aphid-borne yellows virus. The results revealed that incidence of aphids started during second week of February and their population peaked during the second week of April with the mean population of 14.5 to 148.57 aphids/three leaves/plant. Population of aphids was positively correlated with maximum (Tmax) and minimum (Tmin) temperature, morning and evening relative humidity (RH), but negatively correlated with rainfall, wind speed and sunshine hours. So, environmental variables (weather parameters) played a significant role in incidence and distribution of aphids on bitter gourd. ','Seasonal incidence, aphids, CABYV, Bitter gourd','From the results of field experiments, it was concluded that the activity of aphids was recorded to be maximum during March and April, 2022. CABYV infection started at 15 DAS and increased in proportion to the vector population until complete damage. From the results of multiple linear regression analysis, maximum (Tmax) and minimum (Tmin) temperature and morning and evening relative humidity had positive relationship with aphid population, but, rainfall, winds speed and sunshine hours had significant negative relationship. Necessary management measures should be implemented during early stage of the crop for effective management of aphid vectors and CABYV incidence.','INTRODUCTION \r\nBitter gourd (Momordica charantia L.), a perennial herbaceous vegetable crop belonging to the family Cucurbitaceae is widely grown in tropical and subtropical climates. It is also known as bitter melon, balsam pear, pare or karela. More than half of the world’s production is produced in India and China. The major bitter gourd producing states in India are Kerala, Tamil Nadu, Karnataka, Maharashtra and Uttar Pradesh. It is cultivated in an area of 107 thousand hectares throughout India with an annual production of 1296 thousand metric tonnes and a productivity of 12.11 metric tonnes per ha. In Tamil Nadu, the production and productivity of bitter gourd are 44.38 thousand metric tonnes and 18.81 metric tonnes per ha, respectively. \r\nImmature bitter gourd fruits contain 2.1 g of protein, 1.0 g of fat, 1.4 g of minerals, 1.7 g of fibre, 10.6 g of carbohydrate, 0.07 mg of thiamine, 0.06 mg of riboflavin and 96 mg of vitamin A per 100 g of edible part of fruit (Gopalan et al., 1982). Phytonutrients including dietary fibre, minerals like zinc, phosphorus, magnesium, iron and vitamins like B1, B2, B3 and C are abundant. Bitter gourd fruit juice and leaf tea were used to cure diabetes, colic sores, wounds, rheumatism, gout, worms, parasites, measles, hepatitis, fever, and tumours. It helps to purify the blood (Onkara Naik et al., 2019). The presence of biologically active compounds such as triterpenes, proteins, steroids, flavonoids and acids give the plant antifungal, antibacterial, anti-parasitic, anti-viral, anti-fertility, hypoglycaemic and anti-inflammatory properties. \r\nRed pumpkin beetles in the vegetative stage, aphids, jassids, whiteflies and thrips in both the vegetative and reproductive stages attack bitter gourd (Anitha Kumari et al., 2021). Fruit fly is the most common pest that destroys fruits, causing bitter gourd farmers significant losses. Aphids are associated with Cucurbit aphid-borne yellows virus disease and are known to spread polerovirus in a persistent and non-propogative manner, in addition to inflicting direct damage to the crop by sucking sap. Cucurbit aphid-borne yellows virus which belongs to the Luteoviridae family and the genus Polerovirus, with virions ranging in size from 5.3 to 5.9kb and a diameter of about 25nm (Kassem et al., 2007) is a large production constraint (King et al., 2011). \r\nClimatic conditions of a location as well as the weather pattern within a specific season in combination with other factors substantially influence the intensity and area of occurrence of pest species (host plant abundance). While, inter-seasonal weather changes and the resulting fluctuations in specific pest species are quite common (Kocmankovai et al., 2010). With this background, the present investigation was carried out to study the influence of weather parameters on the population of aphids and CABYV incidence in bitter gourd.\r\nMATERIALS AND METHODS \r\nA. Study period and area \r\nA field experiment was carried out to study the influence of weather parameters on seasonal occurrence of aphids and CABYV in bitter gourd during the rabi, 2022 at Tamil Nadu Agricultural university, Coimbatore at 11.0131° N latitude, 76.9323° E longitude. \r\nB. Observations recorded \r\nWeekly observations were made on ten plants chosen at random for eight hybrid derivatives and four parents. The aphid population was determined by counting the number of aphids on three leaves per plant, one on the top, middle and bottom. Disease incidence was recorded by counting the number of plants showing CABYV disease symptoms (chlorotic lesions on younger leaves, bright yellowing, dark green mottling and marginal yellowing of matured leaves, vein thickening, vein banding and orange discoloration of older leaves) and the total number of plants examined were used to calculate the percentage disease incidence (PDI) (Table 2, Fig. 2). \r\nPDI = Number of infected plants × 100\r\n Total number of plants \r\nWeekly counts on aphid population were correlated with weekly weather parameters such as maximum and minimum temperatures, relative humidity, rainfall and bright sunshine hours received from the automatic weather station at Tamil Nadu Agricultural University, Coimbatore.\r\nC. Statistical analysis \r\nWeather factors such as maximum temperature (Tmax), minimum temperature (Tmin), morning and evening relative humidity (RH), rainfall, wind speed and sunshine hours, aphids, and CABYV incidence were statistically analysed by IBM SPSS Statistics 22.\r\nRESULT AND DISCUSSION \r\nBased on the observations made at weekly intervals, aphids were found feeding and damaging all the bitter gourd hybrid derivatives and parents. Incidence of aphids, Aphis gossypii Glover was recorded to be maximum in Preethi (parent). Aphids were mostly found on the terminal leaves. The highest numbers of aphids were recorded on fifteenth standard week and the lowest numbers were recorded on seventh standard week in all hybrid derivatives and parents. Aphids damaged the plants by sucking the sap which resulted in yellowing, crinkling of leaves and in severe cases withering of plants. This commenced from 15 DAS and continued up to harvest. The highest number of aphids was recorded on 90 DAS while the minimum numbers were recorded on 15 DAS (Table 1, Fig. 1).\r\nA. Correlation between weather parameters and aphid population of bitter gourd \r\nCorrelation was made between the incidence of aphids and weather parameters viz., maximum temperature, minimum temperature, morning and evening relative humidity, rainfall, wind speed and sunshine hours. Results of correlation analysis revealed that maximum temperature (Tmax) was positively correlated with the population of aphids on the hybrid derivatives 2, 6, 7 and 8 with the r values of 0.664, 0.616, 0.592 and 0.700, respectively and were observed to be statistically significant at 1 percent level (Table 3).\r\nMinimum temperature (Tmin) was recorded to be positively correlated with the population of aphids on hybrid derivatives 2, 3, 6 and 8 with the r values of 0.575, 0.679, 0.610 and 0.779, respectively (Table 3). Morning and evening relative humidity was positively correlated with the aphid population while rainfall was negatively correlated with the r values of -0.034 and -0.074 on the hybrid derivatives 1 and 6 (Table 3). Aphid population on the hybrid derivatives 4 and 5 and evening relative humidity were found to be statistically significant at 1 percent level with the r values of 0.605 and 0.590. Wind speed and sunshine hours were recorded to be negatively correlated with the population of aphids. The hybrid derivatives 1, 2, 3, 6 and 8 (-0.564, -0.583, -0.595, -0.596 and -0.602, respectively) were recorded to be statistically significant at 1 percent level with wind speed and the hybrid derivatives 4 and 5, CO 1, Preethi were significant recorded to be statistically significant at 1 percent level with sunshine hours.\r\nThe results were in partial consonance with Gangurde et al. (2021) for maximum temperature, but minimum temperature, relative humidity, wind speed and rainfall were contrary to this. The results were quite congruence with the findings of Ghosh (2017) for maximum and minimum temperature but contrary to morning and evening relative humidity. According to Shukla (2014) and Dhandge et al. (2018), the aphid population peaked during 14th standard week after sowing. The findings of the aforementioned correlation analysis between weather parameters and aphid abundance on bitter gourd revealed that temperature and relative humidity had a significant positive influence on the aphid population. This could be due to the increased reproductive potential of aphids when temperature, relative humidity, and sunshine hours are high. This finding is in line with the results of Mahato et al. (2008) and Meena et al. (2009) who found that minimum temperature was positively associated with the population dynamics of sucking pests. \r\nB. Multiple linear regression analysis between weather parameters and aphid population on bitter gourd \r\nAccording to the results of multiple linear regression analysis between weather parameters and aphid abundance, the maximum temperature had considerable contribution towards the aphid population in the hybrid derivatives 1, 2, 6 and 7, with the R2 values ranging from 0.911 to 1.079. When the maximum temperature increased by 1°C the mean number of aphids per three leaves per plant increased by 0.7 (Table 4). Minimum temperature had significant contribution towards the aphid population in the hybrid derivatives 4 and 5, MCM 2, CO 1 and Preethi with the r2 values ranging from 0.682 to 1.244. When the minimum temperature increased by 1°C the mean number of aphids per three leaves per plant increased by 0.783 (Table 4). Both the morning and evening relative humidity and rainfall played a significant role in the population dynamics of aphids with the R2 value of 0.750. Wind speed also had a significant contribution towards the aphid population in the hybrid derivatives 1, 2, 6 and 7 with the R2 value of 0.631 to 0.950. When the minimum temperature increased by 1°C the mean number of aphids per three leaves per plant increased by 0.707 (Table 4). Ghosh et al. (2017) indicated that when the temperature rises, the activity of the aphid population increases. Under warm and humid conditions, aphids caused more damage and heavy rain reduced the population build up of aphids. \r\n \r\n','S. Sathiya Priya*, M. Suganthy, M. Murugan and P. Renukadevi (2022). Influence of weather parameters on seasonal occurrence of aphids and Cucurbit aphid-borne yellows virus (CABYV) on bitter gourd, Momordica charantia L. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 14(2a): 232-237.');
INSERT INTO `pdf_upload` VALUES (5141,'134','Meat Consumption Pattern in Mettur Taluk, Salem District of Tamil Nadu','Nalini P.*, J. Muralidharan, V. Sankar, P. Senthilkumar and N. Sri Balaji','39 Meat Consumption Pattern in Mettur Taluk, Salem District of Tamil Nadu Nalini P.pdf','',1,'A study on meat consumption pattern in Mettur taluk, Salem district of Tamil Nadu has been conducted with a sample size of 100. The results revealed that most of the respondents were in the age group of 30-50 years (45%), from agricultural background 52%, rearing animals 87% (at least backyard poultry) with the family size of less than 5 members (52%). The annual income was less than 2 lakh (41%) and their educational status was higher secondary (39%), 2% were vegetarians and 98% were non-vegetarians. Most of them were consuming meat at-least once in a week (55.10%). Majority of the respondents were consuming meat on Sunday followed by Wednesday and they were buying from meat shop as fresh (100%). All non-vegetarian people were eating chevon and poultry meat (100%), mutton 84.69%, pork 69.39%, fish 48.98% and beef 6.12%. The preference of meat was more for poultry meat (38.77%) followed by mutton (26.53%), chevon, (22.45%), beef (5.10%), pork (4.08%) and fish (3.06%). At the same time consumers were eating more frequently mutton (58.16%) followed by poultry (20.41%), chevon (15.30%), beef (6.12%) and no one was eating pork and fish frequently. ','Meat, consumption pattern, preference','From the above study it was concluded that people in Mettur taluk of Salem district, Tamil Nadu were eating more quantity of mutton than other type of meat because of habituation and availability, their preference based on taste was poultry desi meat and chevon. Cost of desi chicken and chevon meat was equal in the studied area (Rs.650/- per kg). But most of the people were not knowing about the processed meat and the nutritive value of the meat. Most of the respondents had the annual income less than 2 lakhs per annum and approximately eating 13kg of meat per annum it was more than the ICMR recommendation of 11kg per annum. They were meeting this quantity of meat mainly by backyard poultry and sheep/goat farming for their own use. ','INTRODUCTION\r\nConsumption behaviour of the meat and its products is a deciding factor in the development of livestock sector in general and a specific enterprise in particular (Thammaraju and Suryanarayanan 2005). In India meat production is 6.3 million tons per annum and ranked 5th in the world, in terms of production volume that is 3% of the total meat production in the world (www.mofpi.gov.in). Many factors influences the meat consumption pattern it includes sustained income economic growth, a growing urban population, rapidly growing middle class, changing life styles; improvement in transportation and storage facilities. Besides that cultural aspect, religion, customs and economic situations have an effect on meat consumption worldwide (Sowmya and Samsai 2020). Income, age, sex, ethnicity, convenience and price have significant impact on food items demanded by consumers (Eswara Rao et al., 2017). Meat consumption has the largest environmental impact ranging from local to global. In Indian context, culture, traditions, customs and taboos influence meat consumption to a great extent especially in the rural societies (Devi et al., 2014). Hence in the present study the meat consumption pattern in Mettur taluk, Salem district, Tamil Nadu was studied. \r\nMATERIALS AND METHOD\r\nThe study was conducted in Mettur taluk of Salem district, Tamil Nadu, purposively due to the proximity to this station. Geographical area of Mettur taluk is hilly, half of the taluk is dry area and another half is located on the Cauvery river side. One hundred households were selected randomly in Mettur taluk to collect information regarding consumption of meat and their preference. This area is the main breeding tract of the Mecheri sheep and Salem Black goat. Mecheri sheep is the most common sheep breed in Tamil Nadu with high dressing percentage and superior skin quality. As per 20th livestock census population the Salem district has cattle - 6,11,161, buffalo - 46,420, goat – 5,57,541, sheep - 3,37,733, pig - 7,622, broiler - 12,85,325 and desi bird - 11,11,120. Only the meat consumption pattern was taken for this study and the data were subjected to statistical analysis and the results are presented in table and expressed in frequency and percentage.\r\nRESULTS AND DISCUSSION\r\nDemographic information of the respondents are presented in Table 1. The results shows that most of the respondents were in the age group of below 30-50 years (45%) followed by >50 years (28%) and <30 years (27%). Similar result was reported by Babu et al. (2010). Likewise, most of the respondents had agricultural background followed by private job, business and government job. Educational qualification of the respondents shows that most of them were higher secondary education (39%) followed by primary education (36%), degree (13%) and illiterate (12%). Most of the respondents have their annual income of less than 2 lakh (41%) followed by 2-4 lakh (26%), 4-6 lakh (19%) and above 6 lakh (14%). Family size was mostly less than 5 members (69%) followed by more than 5 members (18%) and 5 members (13%). About 87% of the respondents were rearing animals (10% poultry, 38% poultry and sheep/goat, 16% poultry, sheep/goat and cow/buffalo, 23% not rearing any livestock).\r\nFood habit of the respondents is presented in Table 2. It shows that majority of the respondents were non-vegetarians (98%) and the vegetarians were only 2%. Reason for consuming meat were habituation (52.04%) followed by taste (26.53%), nutritive value (17.34%) and availability (4.08%) and the reasons for not consuming meat were religious (1%), dislike (1%) and affordability (0%).\r\nOut of one hundred respondents selected for the present study, only 98 respondents are in the Table 3-13 because the remaining 2 respondents were vegetarians. So the data presented is the expression of 98 respondents.\r\nTable 3 showed that, most of the respondents were consuming meat weekly once (55.10%) then weekly twice or more (33.67%), fortnightly (9.18%) and monthly (2.04%). Similarly, Eswara Rao et al. (2017) also reported that 55.0 percent people in Gannavaram district of Andhra Pradesh had meat at least once in a weak. Regarding to the type of meat eating, 42.86% of the respondents were eating mutton, chevon, poultry meat, pork and fish, 20.14 percent of the respondents eating mutton, chevon, poultry meat and pork, 15.31 percent of the respondents eating mutton, chevon, poultry meat and fish, 15.31% of the respondents eating chevon and poultry meat and 6.12 percent of the respondents were eating mutton, chevon, poultry meat, beef, pork and fish. People who are living in cauvery river belt were eating fish but most of the old aged people in dry area were not eating fish because of the habituation but the young generation people have started to eat fish because of availability by development of transport. \r\nTable 4 shows that, majority of the respondents liked poultry desi meat (24.49%) followed by mutton (26.53%), chevon (22%), broiler meat (14.28%), pork (7.10%) and beef (5.10%). Similar results were reported by Eswara Rao at al. (2017). In the present study young generation people was preferred poultry meat especially desi meat and not the broiler meat. The reason for the preference was taste (45.92%), followed by habituation (27.55%), availability (19.39%) and low cost (7.14%). Mostly people were cooking poultry desi meat in home but the young generation people were eating broiler meat in the form of chicken briyani, chicken 65, chicken fried rice etc in restaurants, fast food shops and road side shops. All the non-vegetarian people were eating poultry meat and chevon. Regarding the type of meat consumption, 85.71 percent were eating mutton followed by pork 65.3% and beef 5.12%. Similar type of results was reported by Babu et al. (2010); Koizume et al. (2001); Thammiraju and Suryanarayana (2005). The respondents who were eating beef are consuming beef on weekly basis and the people who were eating pork were consuming mostly in summer, because they believe that consuming pork reduces the body heat. People having annual income less than 2 lakh per annum but consumed more meat because those peoples were having agricultural background rearing backyard poultry and 2 to 5 numbers of sheep or goat for their own use.\r\nReason for less consumption of beef, pork and fish are presented in Table 5, it shows that majority of the respondents (41.84%) avoided beef, pork and fish because of religious sentiments followed by social restrictions (23.47%), unavailability (21.43%), dislike (7.14%) and health care (6.12%) reasons. Reason of religious sentiments was mainly for beef consumption, unavailability was for pork and dislike was for fish. \r\nReason for more consumption of mutton than chevon is presented in Table 6. The result showed that habituation (53.06%) and more availability (34.69%) of the mutton leads more consumption of mutton than chevon. The taste (8.16%) and low cost (4.08%) were not the main reasons for consumption of more mutton than chevon. The study area being the home tract of Mecheri sheep, many respondents reared Mecheri ram lambs for their own consumption purpose. They also slaughter ram lambs for the temple rituals. In Table 7, awareness about the nutritive value is presented, about 57.14 percent of the respondents had not known about the nutritive value of meat and 42.85 percent of the respondents knew about nutritive value of the meat. Young generation and educated people knew about protein and fat composition in meat but the old and illiterate people did not know about protein, fat etc. in meat, but they expressed the importance of meat for their health.\r\nKind of meat eating more frequently and quantity of meat buying at one time is presented in Table 8. About 58.16 percent of the respondents were eating mutton more frequently (54.08% people buying 1.0kg at a time) followed by poultry meat 20.41 percent (52.04% people buying 1.5kg at a time), chevon 15.31 percent (50% people buying 1.0kg at a time), beef 6.12 percent (4.08% people buying 1.5kg at a time) and no one was eating pork more frequently (41.84% people buying 1.5kg at a time).\r\nChoice of edible by-products is presented in Table 9. The results showed that majority of the people like stomach & intestine (40.82%) followed by head (26.53%), liver (24.49%), feet (6.12%) and bone by (2.04%). In the studied area intestine along with blood of sheep and goats cooked as gravy was delicious side dish for idli and dosa for morning breakfast.\r\nTable 10 showed the place of purchase of meat. All (100%) the non-vegetarian people were buying meat in retail shops. The same result was reported by Eswara Rao et al. (2017). No one was buying meat in slaughter house or super markets. But the place of preference was to buy meat from sharing meat (58.16%). Sharing means group of people (8-10 mostly) used to buy an animal, they will slaughter and share the meat and edible offals among themselves. People like this type of buying meat because they know the age and health of the animal at the same time they could get more meat for low cost when compared to retail shop price. This kind of sharing meat is being followed during festival time like Diwali, Pongal and local festivals. Next to sharing meat, people preferred to buy fresh meat from retail shop (25.51%), in retail shop they would get meat on all days with different variety. Other than this, people prefer to slaughter on their own (16.33%), mostly they adopt this method of slaughtering for temple festival, home function/celebrations.\r\nTable 11, represents results of preference of processed/frozen meat, about 73.47 percent of the respondents did not had idea about processed meat and 26 percent did not prefer the processed meat. The present result was in accordance with Kiran et al. (2018) who observed that consumer awareness about frozen meat was very low compared to fresh meat in Southern India.\r\nReason for non-preference of processed meat is presented in Table 12, it shows that about 84.69 respondents told, that fresh meat was more hygienic, 8.16 percent unavailability of processed meat and 7.14 percent respondents told not tried the processed meat. Except in main cities processed meats were not sold in small cities and towns because it requires proper cold storage facility. This may also be a reason for people buying meat as fresh in meat shops.\r\nType of cooking is presented in Table 13. Indian cooking style is different than other countries because Indian people prefer more spices. The results of the study shows that 45.92 percent were cooking meat in a watery gravy method, 34.69 percent in a thick gravy method, 19% in frying method and no people followed tandoori or smoking. Frying method is adopted mostly for poultry meat not for mutton and chevon.\r\nTable 14 shows the results of kind of animal slaughtered during temple festival or home function/celebration. In this 45.91% respondents were slaughtered goat followed by sheep (34.91%), poultry (17.35%), pig (2.04%) and no one slaughtered bull or buffalo. About 2.04 percent respondents were sacrificed pig but it was allowed in specific temples not in all temples. In poultry means cock only sacrificed but this was allowed in all temples where sacrifice was allowed. \r\n','Nalini P., J. Muralidharan, V. Sankar, P. Senthilkumar and N. Sri Balaji (2022). Meat Consumption Pattern in Mettur Taluk, Salem District of Tamil Nadu. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 14(2a): 238-243.'),(5142,'134','In-vitro Study on Acaricidal Efficacy of Azadirachta indica (Neem) Acetonic Extracts against Rhipicephalus (B.) microplus in Udaipur (Rajasthan)','Vikram Punia*, Hakim Manzer, Jitendra Kumar and Anita Rathore','40 In-Vitro Study on Acaricidal Efficacy of Azadirachta indica _Neem_ Acetonic Extracts against Rhipicephalus _B._ microplus in Udaipur Rajasthan Jitendra Kumar.pdf','',1,'The present research was done to evaluate the acaricidal property of the acetonic extracts of seed, leaves and bark Azadirachta indica against larvae and adult stages of Rhipicephalus (B.) microplus ticks. The ticks and their eggs were treated with various concentrations of herbal acaricide (70, 50, 25 and 10 mg/ml). One control group with twice replications for each dilutions were used for the Adult Immersion Test (AIT) and Larval Packet Test (LPT). The seeds, leaves and bark of acetonic extracts of neem exhibited lethal effects on larval mortality which at 70 mg/ml concentration was 76%, 59.5% and 47% respectively. The treated Rhipicephalus (B.) microplus with acetonic extract of A. indica seeds, leaves and bark showed inhibition of oviposition (IO%) which was 77.3%, 50.13% and 49.96% respectively at 70 mg/ml concentration used in vitro. In acetonic extracts of seeds, leaves and bark, reproductive index (0.10), (0.22) and (0.22) respectively were observed at 70 mg/ml concentration. Among the three extracts of A. indica evaluated by AIT, the decrease in reproductive index and increase in the percent inhibition of oviposition, was evident during the study. The results indicated that these plant extracts have potential to be developed as herbal acaricides. A. indica has a great potential for the integrated control of ticks in animals due to its acaricidal efficacy and eco-friendly nature.','Acaricidal potential, Acetonic extracts, Rhipicephalus microplus, Adult Immersion Test (AIT) and Larval Packet Test (LPT)','The results indicated that the plant extracts have potential to be developed as herbal acaricides. Acetone extracts prepared from the seed, leaves and bark of A. indica exhibited excellrnt acaricidal acativity against the tick’s species. Further studies, especially in-vitro evaluation needs to be conducted as well as the isolation and identification of the compounds responsible for the acaricidal activity in these extracts. This will be beneficial for discovery and development of noval natural acaricides.','INTRODUCTION\r\nLivestock rearing is one of the most important economic activities in the rural areas of the country contributing significantly to the national economy. Around 70 percent of Indian population is thriving on agriculture and allied sectors like livestock industry. The total livestock population is about 535.78 million in country with increase of 4.6 percent over Livestock census 2019. Today, most of the emerging infectious diseases (Zoonotic pathogens) and important haemo-protozoan diseases are transmitted by ticks (Jongejan and Uilenberg 2004). The damage caused by ticks and tick born diseases (TTBDs) to livestock is considered very high (Ghosh et al., 2006). The global loss due to ticks and tick borne diseases (TTBDs) was estimated to be between US$ 109 billion annually (Ghosh et al., 2014) while in India the cost of controlling TTBDs has been estimated as US$ 498.7 million/annum (Minjauw et al., 2003). The resistance of the tick Rhipicephalus (B.) microplus to synthetic acaricides gave rise to the need for new scientific research on other ways to control this tick. For thousands of years, humans have been using herbal remedies to cure and prevent various illnesses. Out of many herbal products, neem has numerous properties which have promoted its use in both the medical and veterinary fields. Acetonic seed, leaves and bark extracts of Azadirachta indica (Meliaceae) have medicinal properties used to control skin infections and applied as insect repellant and sometimes used as pesticide (Schmutterer, 1990; Sofowora, 1993; Isman, 1997). US National Academy of Sciences recognized the importance of neem tree in 1992 and entitled neem as “a tree for solving global problem’s” (Singh et al., 2017).\r\nMATERIALS AND METHODS \r\nA. Preparation of plant extract\r\nThe seeds, leaves and bark of A. indica were collected from fields, road side and gardens in and around Vallabhnagar tehsil of Udaipur (Rajasthan). The plant materials were dried in shade at room temperature and subsequently pounded in to powder using pestle and mortar or with an electronic blender. Further, to remove the ungrounded parts of the material, the powder was sieved out with the help of muslin cloth. After that the powders were stored in well labelled air tight containers and kept in a cool place (Shyma et al., 2014). Preparation of Plant Extracts was done by using organic solvent of acetone. Plant material was dissolved in solvent and macerated for two days. After that the mixture was filtered out using Whatman No. 1 filter paper. The filtrate was kept in water bath for evaporation at 45°C and then dried at room temperature. The dried extracts were stored properly in sealed beakers in refrigerator at 4°C and used as and when required. Different concentrations (10, 25, 50 and 70 mg/ml) of each extract residues were prepared in respective solvent acetone. Controls were run side by side for all solvents used in research.\r\nB. Collection and identification of ticks\r\nTicks were collected in small boxes with a few small holes allowing air to circulate and brought to the Department of Veterinary Parasitology, C.V.A.S. Navania, Vallabhnagar, Udaipur (Rajasthan) for morphological identification of ticks according to keys of Soulsby (1982). \r\n(1) Larval Packet Test (LPT). The larval packet test (LPT) was conducted according to FAO (2004) guidelines with minor modifications. After identification the ticks were washed with distilled water and dried with filter paper. Ticks were then placed in incubator at 27 °C and relative humidity of 85% for laying of eggs. Cattle ticks were examined daily until oviposition. The eggs were separated and allowed to hatch in glass vials with cotton plug and kept in optimal conditions. The obtained egg ticks were maintained at 27.0 ±1.0ºC and 85-92% relative humidity for 21 days in desiccators placed in BOD incubator. The larvae aged 21 days were subjected to larval packet test. For this test Whatman filter paper NO. 1 in parallelogram shape (12 cm × 18 cm) was impregnated with different dilutions (70, 50, 25 and 10 mg/ml) and one control group for each concentration of test. Then the packet was dried for about half an hour at room temperature. Treated papers were folded into packets and a fixed number of 100 larvae were placed. The packets after placing in dessicator were kept in BOD incubator for the 24 hours and total mortality of larvae was counted using the following formulae:\r\n \r\n(2) Adult Immersion test (AIT)\r\nThe ticks were collected from naturally infested cattle. The obtained ticks were divided into groups. Ten engorged females were placed in each treatment group and one control group for each concentration of test. These ticks were weighed to make homogeneous group for study. They were immersed for 5 min in acetonic extracts of A. indica in different concentrations (70, 50, 25 and 10 mg/ml) and one control group was used in the bioassay. Ticks were removed and left for drying on filter paper and transferred to the petridish. The petridish was then placed in dessicator. Dessicator was placed in BOD incubator for the 15 days these ticks were observed for inhibition of oviposition and reproductive index (Drummond et al., 1983).\r\n \r\n\r\nInhibition of oviposition (IO %) =\r\n \r\nD. Statistical analysis\r\nStatistical analysis for significance of difference in occurrence among various occurrence and clinical data will be done as described by Snedecor and Cochran (1994). The data will be analyzed by using statistical software program.\r\nRESULTS AND DISCUSSION\r\nRhipicephalus (B.) microplus was morphologically identified in C.V.A.S, Udaipur (Rajasthan). For testing percentage larval mortality, inhibition of oviposition (IO %) and reproductive index were studied at four treatment groups (70, 50, 25 and 10 mg/ml) and one control group was used in acetonic extracts of seeds, leaves and bark of A. indica for the bioassay. Larvae of Rhipicephalus (B.) microplus were exposed to filter paper envelopes impregnated with different concentrations of neem. Four envelopes were impregnated with each tested solution. 100 larvae of 21 days old were fasted and placed in each envelope. Larval mortality was observed 24 h after treatment in LPT test. Then Acaricidal efficacy of plant extracts was estimated by using Adult Immersion Test (AIT). \r\nA. Efficacy in acetonic extracts of A. indica in Larval Packet Test (LPT)\r\nThe different dilutions of acetonic extracts of seeds, leaves and bark of A. indica varied from 10 to 70 mg/ml, where peak mortality was observed from seeds (76%) followed by leaves (59.5%) and bark (47%) respectively at a concentration of 70 mg/ml. A total of four treatment groups and one control group were used in experiment. In control group no mortality of ticks was observed. A significant larval mortality was produced by application of extracts of 50 mg/ml, 25 mg/ml and 10 mg/ml where seeds (53.5%, 27.5% and 12%), followed by leaves (43.5%, 22.5% and 7.5%) and bark (35.5%, 18% and 7%) respectively. With the increase in concentration level the percent mortality rate also increased, as shown in (Table 1).\r\nIn LPT test after 24 hours of contact, the mortality rate varied according to the concentrations and the acetonic extracts showed highest larvicidal effect. Acetonic seed extracts showed higher mortality (76%, 53.5%, 27.5% and 12%), followed by leaves (59.5%, 43.5%, 22.5% and 7.5%) and bark (47%, 35.5%, 18% and 7%) respectively at 70, 50, 25 and 10 mg/ml concentration where as control groups showed no mortality of ticks larvae under evaluation. The results of the present study were in accordance with Choudhury et al. (2009) who reported that the neem seed oil tested against the larvae of Boophilus decoloratus ticks showed 100 percent mortality and Nithya et al. (2017) who reported that extracts of A. indica showed maximum mortality rate of ticks over Calotropis procera when tested individually. Micheletti et al. (2009) reported a mortality of 65% on use of neem leaves.\r\nB. Efficacy of acetonic extracts of seed, leaves and bark of A. indica against R. (B.) microplus in Adult Immersion Test (IO%)\r\nThe percent adult tick inhibition of oviposition (IO%) and reproductive index produced by the crude acetonic extracts of seed, leaves and bark of A. indica against R. (B.) microplus varied in different concentrations, ranging from 10 to 70 mg/ml. A significant percentage inhibition of oviposition (IO%) was observed at 70, 50, 25 and 10 mg/ml concentrations of the extracts of seed, leaves and bark which were (77.3%, 68.34%, 60.70%, 42.09%) in seed extracts, (50.13%, 37.26%, 22.9% and 10.84%) in leaf extracts and (49.96%, 34.88%, 17.5% and 9.2%) in bark extracts, respectively. RI at 70 to 10 mg/ml concentrations of acetonic seed extract showed minimum reproductive index (0.10, 0.14, 0.18 and 0.26) whereas leaves and bark showed reproductive index (0.22, 0.28. 0.35 and 0.40) and (0.22, 0.29. 0.37, 0.41) respectively. In AIT the dependent decrease in reproductive index and increase in inhibition of oviposition was observed from concentration 10 to 70 mg/ml. No mortality of ticks was observed in control group, as shown in Table 2.\r\nAmong the different concentrations of acaricidal efficacy of acetonic extracts of seeds, leaves and bark extracts of neem, the highest inhibition of oviposition was observed in seeds (77.3%, 68.34%, 60.70% and 42.09%) followed by leaves (50.13%, 37.26%, 22.9% and 10.84%) and bark (49.96%, 34.88%, 17.5% and 9.2%) respectively at the 10 to 70 mg/ml dilutions. Concentrations of acetonic seed extracts showed minimum reproductive index (0.10, 0.14, 0.18 and 0.26) whereas leaves and bark showed reproductive index (0.22, 0.28. 0.35 and 0.40) and (0.22, 0.29. 0.37, 0.41) respectively. In AIT a dependent decrease in reproductive index and increase in inhibition of oviposition was observed. The results of the present study were similar to Das et al. (2015) who evaluated that the efficacy of neem oil and reported 56.25% against tick infestation in goats. Sanjib (2007) stated that the efficacy of neem oil was 70% against tick infestation in goats. Kalakumar et al. (2000) reported that neem oil was found 60.75% effective in cattle infested with ticks. Srivastava et al. (2008) observed that out of eight plants extract, A. indica seed extract was most effective (80%) after 5 h of treatment.\r\nAmong the different extrascts tested, different concentration of neem seed extracts was found to be most effective. The larvicidal and acaricidal effect of Neem seed were probably due to azadirachtin, triterpenoides, salannin and nimbin. Higher concentration of abundant azadirachtin, a triterpene to which most of the anti arthropod activity of this plant is attributed. Azadirachtin is associated with blocking the synthesis and release of moulting hormones (ecdysteroids) from the prothoracic gland, leading to incomplete ecdysis in immature insects. In adult female insects, a similar mechanism of action leads to sterility (Isman, 2006).\r\n','Vikram Punia, Hakim Manzer, Jitendra Kumar and Anita Rathore (2022). In-Vitro Study on Acaricidal Efficacy of Azadirachta indica (Neem) Acetonic Extracts Against Rhipicephalus (B.) microplus in Udaipur (Rajasthan). Biological Forum – An International Journal, 14(2a): 244-248.'),(5143,'134','Screening of Maize Genotypes against Fall Armyworm, Spodoptera frugiperda (J.E. Smith) under Artificial Infestation','M. A. Prajwal Gowda*, J. C. Sekhar, P.L. Soujanya, K.R. Yathish, S.J. Rahman and B. Mallaiah','41 Screening of Maize Genotypes against Fall Armyworm, Spodoptera frugiperda _J.E. Smith_ under Artificial Infestation M. A. Prajwal Gowda.pdf','',1,'The fall armyworm (FAW), Spodoptera frugiperda, has a detrimental effect on the sustainable production of maize, particularly in India\'s small- and marginal-scale farming systems. FAW has indeed spread throughout India, and currently the primary means of control is pesticide spraying. Given the harmful effects of insecticide spray on natural enemies as well as resurgence and resistance problems, there is a need to develop an effective, eco-friendly, and feasible techniques. A screening experiment was carried out during 2021–22 in an insect screening net house under artificial infestation at Winter Nursery Centre, ICAR-Indian Institute of Maize Research, Rajendranagar, Hyderabad, to identify resistant/tolerant maize genotypes to fall armyworm. Twenty-two maize genotypes were evaluated based on the fall armyworm leaf damage score on a scale of 1 to 9, as specified by Davis and Williams (1992), which was later modified by CIMMYT. The pooled mean data of leaf damage score (LDS) per plant varied from 3.93 to 6.84 in CML 71 and CM 501, respectively, and differed significantly from each other. Among the maize genotypes screened, CML 71, CML 67 and DMRE63 recorded significantly lower leaf damage scores of 3.93, 4.00 and 4.17, to fall armyworm. The mean leaf damage score per plant of CML 71, CML 67, DMRE63, CML 561, AEBY-1, CML 335, CML 345, and CML 337 were 3.93, 4.00, 4.17, 4.36, 4.42, 4.57, 4.72, and 4.80, respectively and were categorized as moderately resistant genotypes. These genotypes can be utilized in breeding programmes to develop fall armyworm-resistant/tolerant cultivars. ','Maize genotypes, fall armyworm, screening, artificial infestation, leaf damage, resistant','The present study concludes that the most susceptible stage to fall armyworm infestation was found to be at V6 whorl leaf stage. Among the 22 genotypes screened, eight genotypes, viz., CML 71, CML 67, DMRE 63, CML 561, AEBY-1, CML 335, CML 345, and CML 337, were found to be moderately resistant (Table 4). The remaining 14 genotypes, namely, ENT 2-3, CML 111, CML 334, CML 336, BML 7, CML 139, CML 338, CM 500, CML 144, BML 6, AEBY 5-34-1, CML 330, CM 400, and CM 501, emerged as susceptible to fall armyworm. Relying on a single season experiment, it is difficult to ascertain that CML 71, CML 67, DMRE 63, CML 561, AEBY-1, CML 335, CML 345, and CML 337 were moderately resistant. To validate resistance in these maize genotypes, three to four seasons of multi-location trials (MRTs), are required to confirm the resistance behaviour of the genotypes identified in the present study.','-','M. A. Prajwal Gowda, J. C. Sekhar, P.L. Soujanya, K.R. Yathish, S.J. Rahman and B. Mallaiah (2022). Screening of Maize Genotypes against Fall Armyworm, Spodoptera frugiperda (J.E. Smith) under Artificial Infestation. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 14(2a): 249-254.'),(5144,'134','Combining Ability Assessment in Sunflower through Line × Tester Analysis','Aditi R. Rajane*, Satish S. Nichal, Sangita U. Fhatak, E.R. Vaidya, Pallavi R. Sasane and S.H. Karvar','42 Combining Ability Assessment in Sunflower through Line × Tester Analysis Aditi R. Rajane.pdf','',1,'Sixty hybrids were tested using line × tester design involving five cytoplasmic male sterile lines and twelve restorer lines using Randomized block design with three replications at the field of Oilseeds Research Unit, Dr. PDKV, Akola. The hybrids and parents were evaluated during kharif 2017 to estimate the combining ability effects. Among the parents HA228A, HA208A, HA303A, AKSFI-16-1, AKSFI-16-2, AKSFI-16-4, AKSFI-16-4, AKSFI-16-5 and AKSFI-16-12 were found to be best general combiner for seed yield and most of the yield contributing traits. The parents HA303A, AKSFI-16-1, AKSFI-16-2, AKSFI-16-4, AKSFI-16-5 and AKSFI-16-12 were also good general combiner for oil content. On the basis of mean performance and sca effects of crosses, three crosses viz., HA228A × AKSFI-16-4, HA208A × AKSFI-16-2 and HA303A × AKSFI-16-12 were identified as promising crosses.','General combining ability, Specific combining ability, line × tester analysis and randomized block design','On the basis of mean seed yield performance, gca and sca effects three crosses were identified as promising crosses (Table 4). The cross HA228A × AKSFI-16-4 recorded highest seed yield (54.73 g), highest standard heterosis (27.91%) and significant sca effect (4.66) with parents having high × high gca effect. The second cross HA208A × AKSFI-16-2 exhibits the mean seed yield per plant (48.60 g), standard heterosis (13.59%) and significant sca effect (4.96) with high × high gca effect. The third cross HA303A × AKSFI-16-12 exhibits the mean seed yield per plant (48.30 g), standard heterosis (12.88%) and significant sca effect (4.71) with high × high gca effect. The crosses HA228A × AKSFI-16-4 and HA208A × AKSFI-16-2 were identified as promising crosses for seed yield, whereas cross HA303A × AKSFI-16-12 was identified as promising cross for seed yield coupled with oil content. The current study focus that the evaluated parental materials possess enough genetic diversity which could be used in the future sunflower varietal development program. Inheritance of all the characters governed by additive gene effect was confirmed by the greater ratio of GCA than SCA. The parents with good general combining ability in this study could be used to develop potential hybrid, synthetic and composite sunflower variety with higher commercial yield. Thus, these parents and crosses need further evaluation in preliminary or multilocation hybrid trials for further commercial exploitation.','INTRODUCTION\r\nSunflower is one of the most important oilseed crop grown for edible purposes in the world. Per capita consumption and requirements for edible oil is increasing. So the local production of hybrid seed with increased seed and oil yield is one of basic step to achieve the goal. Compared to other oilseed crop, sunflower possesses several advantages. As for example, short duration (90-110 days) and high yield potential with higher % of edible oil, having tolerance to drought and salt (Ahmad et al., 2012) with wider adaptability to different soil and climatic conditions (Sunil and Khan 2013). Oil of sunflower is light in taste, appearance and more essential vitamin E then, other vegetable oil. The sunflower consists of monounsaturated and polyunsaturated fats. It is used like, foods, cosmetics, industries, and for the treatment of Cholesterol and atherosclerosis. (Madhavi et al., 2010). Low yielding genotypes and hybrids of sunflower are the major constraints of sunflower productivity. To conquer this constraint breeders have attention towards production of hybrids through heterosis breeding, which become possible due to discovery of cytoplasmic male sterility by Leclerq (1969) and fertility restoration system by Kinman (1970).\r\nIn plant breeding general combining ability (GCA) and specific combing ability (SCA) are important techniques to identify best lines for the production of hybrid. Combining ability analysis provides the information for selection of desirable parents and cross combination for exploitation. In this analysis, total variance is partitioned into GCA and SCA effect to verify the parents in terms of combining ability to combine in hybrid combination.\r\nMATERIAL AND METHODS\r\nPresent research was conducted at Oilseeds Research Unit, Dr. PDKV, Akola. The parental material for the study consisted of five CMS lines viz., HA2228A, HA249A, HA302A, HA208A and HA303A and twelve restorer lines viz., AKSFI-16-1, AKSFI-16-2 AKSFI-16-3, AKSFI-16-4, AKSFI-16-5, AKSFI-16-6, AKSFI-16-7, AKSFI-16-8, AKSFI-16-9, AKSFI-16-10, AKSFI-16-11 and AKSFI-16-12. Crossing work was done in rabi 2016 and evaluation was done in kharif 2017, resultant 60 crosses and two checks (PDKVSH-952 and DRSH-1) were sown in RBD design with three replications for evaluation in line × tester fashion. Each entry was sown in one row of 4.5 m length in each replication. The inter and intra-row spacing was 60 cm and 30 cm, respectively. All the standard agronomic and plant protection measures were used. The data was recorded on plant basis and plot basis, from each genotype in each replication on 5 randomly selected plants and their average value was computed for ten quantitative traits viz., days to 50% flowering, days to maturity, plant height at harvest (cm), head diameter (cm), hundred seed weight (g), volume weight (g/100ml), seed filling percentage, hull content (%), seed yield per plant (g) and oil content (%). Oil content of all genotypes was determined by using Bench top Pulse Nuclear magnetic Resonance (NMR) Spectrometer (Model MQC OXFORD). Heterosis was calculated over mid parent, better parent and standard checks (PDKVSH-952 and DRSH-1) for seed yield, its components and oil content. The significance of GCA and SCA effects was determined at the 0.05 and 0.01 level using the t-test (Singh and Choudhary 1977).\r\nRESULTS AND DISCUSSION\r\nAnalysis of variance for combining ability of seventeen parents and sixty crosses (obtained by crossing 5 lines with 12 testers) was carried out and the total variance due to crosses was partitioned into portions attributable to crosses, females (lines), males (testers), lines × testers and error sources (Table 1). The components of variances attributable to lines and testers were used as a measure of general combining ability effects and the variances due to interaction between lines and testers was used as a measure of specific combining ability effects.\r\nThe variances due to lines were significant for days to 50% flowering, days to maturity, plant height, 100 seed weight, volume weight, oil content and seed yield, whereas, the variances due to males were significant for plant height, head diameter, 100 seed weight, volume weight, seed filling percentage, hull content, oil content and seed yield per plant. The variances due to crosses were highly significant for all the characters studied such as days to 50% flowering, days to maturity, plant height, head diameter, 100 seed weight, volume weight, seed filling percentage, hull content, oil content and seed yield. The variances due to lines × testers were also highly significant all the traits studied. Significant variance indicated the presence of substantial amount of genetic variability among the parents and crosses for respective characters.\r\nThe estimates of general combining ability effects of female and male parents are presented in Table 2. In sunflower positive gca effects are desirable for all the characters except days to 50 per cent flowering, days to maturity, plant height and hull content. In sunflower early to medium duration hybrids or genotypes are preferred and in the present study among the lines, two lines viz., HA228A (-1.18) and HA249A (-0.71) recorded significant negative gca effects and among the testers, two testers viz., AKSFI-16-2 (-0.64) and AKSFI-16-12 (-1.04) recorded significant negative gca effects for 50% flowering. For days to maturity line HA249A (-1.23) ranks top in the list followed by HA302A (-0.87) and HA228A (-0.51). Among twelve restorers, five viz. AKSFI-16-5, (-1.43), AKSFI-16-7 (-1.23), AKSFI-16-2 (-1.17), AKSFI-16-4 (-1.17) and AKSFI-16-3 (-0.83) showed significant negative GCA. The lines, HA249A (-8.15) and HA302A (-5.28) and testers AKSFI-16-1 (-19.65) and AKSFI-16-2 (-20.59) recorded significant negative gca effects for the dwarfness.\r\nHull content is an important character in deciding the ideal hybrid or genotype. Out of five lines tested, HA228A (-3.53) exhibited significant negative gca effects for hull content. Among males AKSFI-16-1 (-3.95), AKSFI-16-2 (-2.98), AKSFI-16-4 (-8.69) and AKSFI-16-12 (-9.62) showed significant gca effects in negative direction.\r\nThe characters like head diameter, 100 seed weight, volume weight and seed filling percentage are yield contributing characters and increase in these characters ultimately result in increased seed yield. The highest gca effect for head diameter was registered by line HA228A (0.52). Among males AKSFI-16-4 (2.19) showed maximum positive gca effect followed by AKSFI-16-2 (1.35) and AKSFI-16-12 (1.19). For 100 seed weight, among lines tested, HA228A (0.43) and HA249A (0.11) exhibited significant positive gca effect and out of the twelve testers AKSFI-16-1 (0.36), AKSFI-16-3 (0.18), AKSFI-16-4 (0.51) and AKSFI-16-12 (0.89) recorded significant positive gca effects. Highest significant GCA effect for volume weight was exhibited by AKSFI-16-1(3.27) followed by AKSFI-16-4 (2.54), AKSFI-16-12 (2.52), AKSFI-16-2 (2.27), HA228A (1.99) and HA303A (0.47). Out of five lines tested, HA228A (4.87) and HA303A (3.22) exhibited significant positive gca effects for seed filling. Among males AKSFI-16-1 (10.69), AKSFI-16-2 (6.98), AKSFI-16-4 (11.90) and AKSFI-16-12 (13.15) were significantly superior in positive direction, thus these parents were good general combiners for seed filling percentage. \r\nThe main use of sunflower is for edible oil purpose, thus the improvement in oil content is the major objective of sunflower improvement programme. In the present study, out of five lines tested, two lines viz., HA302A (0.51) and HA303A (0.64) exhibited significant positive gca effects for oil content and among males AKSFI-16-1 (1.59) showed maximum significant positive gca effect followed by AKSFI-16-12 (1.26), AKSFI-16-4 (1.01), AKSFI-16-2 (0.77) and AKSFI-16-5 (0.55). Thus, these parents were good general combiners for oil content.\r\nImprovement in seed yield is a prime objective of any breeding programme. Out of five lines tested, three lines HA228A (3.65), HA208A (1.86) and HA303A (1.37) exhibited significant positive gca effects for seed yield per plant. Among males AKSFI-16-4 (8.90) showed maximum significant positive gca effect followed by AKSFI-16-1 (7.73), AKSFI-16-12 (4.70), AKSFI-16-2 (4.27) and AKSFI-16-5 (3.04). So they can be considered as good general combiners for seed yield per plant. These findings are in agreement with earlier reports of Uttam et al. (2005); Reddy and Madhavilatha (2005); Venkanna et al. (2005); Sawargoankar and Ghodke (2008); Misal (2009); Satishcandra et al. (2011); Patil et al. (2012); Saleem et al. (2014); Qamar et al. (2015); Sapkale et al. (2016); Kulkarni and Supriya (2017).\r\nThe estimates of specific combining ability effects of the 60 crosses are presented in Table 3. In sunflower, positive sca effects are desirable for all the traits studied except for days to 50 % flowering, days to maturity, plant height and hull content for which negative sca effects are desirable.\r\nIn sunflower early maturity is desirable. Among 60 hybrids, 7 hybrids recorded significant negative sca effect for days to 50% flowering which is considered to be desirable since earliness is desirable, the cross HA303A × AKSFI-16-12 (-3.76) shows highest significant negative sca effect, followed by HA228A × AKSFI-16-7(-3.69), HA228A × AKSFI-16-2 (-2.36), HA302A × AKSFI-16-4 (-2.27) and HA228A × AKSFI-16-3 (-2.02). Out of sixty crosses ten crosses registered negative significant SCA effects for days to maturity. Highest positive SCA effect was exhibited by HA208A × AKSFI-16-10 (4.49) followed by HA302A × AKSFI-16-7 (3.87) and HA249A × AKSFI-16-4 (3.17). The sca effects ranged from -18.37 (HA228A × AKSFI-16-10) to 17.01 (HA302A × AKSFI-16-2) for plant height. Cross HA228A × AKSFI-16-10 (-18.37) exhibit highest significant negative sca effect followed by HA249A × AKSFI-16-2 (-17.98) and HA303A × AKSFI-16-3 (-17.11).\r\nFor yield contributing traits like head diameter, hundred seed weight, volume weight and seed filling percentage, positive significant sca effects are desirable. A total of seven hybrids recorded significant positive sca effects for head diameter. Among crosses, HA228A × AKSFI-16-3 (2.81) exhibited maximum significant positive sca effect, followed by HA303A × AKSFI-16-12 (1.79) and HA208A × AKSFI-16-2 (1.32). Five hybrids recorded significant positive sca effects for 100 seed weight. Among crosses, HA228A × AKSFI-16-3 (1.12) exhibited maximum significant positive sca effect, followed by HA303A × AKSFI-16-12 (0.84) and HA249A × AKSFI-16-2 (0.60).Out of 60 crosses, twelve crosses exhibited significant positive sca effect for volume weight. And for seed filling percentage, out of 60 hybrids, 19 hybrids exhibited significant positive sca effect.\r\nOut of 60 crosses, 30 crosses showed significant and negative sca effects, which is desirable for the hull content. The highest negative significant sca effect was recorded by the cross HA302A × AKSFI-16-10 followed by HA228A × AKSFI-16-11 (-11.23), HA249A × AKSFI-16-8 (-10.47) and HA303A × AKSFI-16-11 (-9.84).\r\nFor oil content positive sca is desirable. Out of 60 tested hybrids, five only hybrids recorded significant positive sca effects andcross HA303A × AKSFI-16-6 (1.56) was recorded as the best specific cross combination for oil content, followed by HA303A × AKSFI-16-12(1.25) and HA249A × AKSFI-16-3 (1.07), HA302A × AKSFI-16-10(0.95) and HA208A × AKSFI-16-8 (0.90)\r\nA total of 12 hybrids exhibited positive sca effects for seed yield per plant, of which seven crosses recorded highly significant positive SCA effect for seed yield per plant. Cross HA249A × AKSFI-16-8 (14.92) recorded highest significant SCA effect followed by HA228A × AKSFI-16-3 (7.99), HA228A × AKSFI-16-9 (6.44), HA249A x AKSFI-16-2 (6.23), HA249A × AKSFI-16-3 (5.83), HA303A × AKSFI-16-10 (4.79) and HA303A × AKSFI-16-12 (4.71). Venkanna et al. (2005) also reported sca effects in desirable direction for days to 50% flowering, days to maturity, 100 seed weight, seed yield per plant, head diameter and plant height. Patil et al. (2007) reported maximum sca effects in desirable direction for plant height, percentage of filled seed per head, seed yield per plant, 100 seed weight and oil yield. Chavan et al. (2009) reported similar result for specific combining ability for seed yield, oil content per cent and head diameter. Also, Khan et al. (2009); Gejli et al. (2011), Athoni and Nandini (2012); Asif et al. (2013); Rizwana et al. (2015) reported similar result for specific combining ability for seed yield and their components.\r\n','Aditi R. Rajane, Satish S. Nichal, Sangita U. Fhatak, E.R. Vaidya, Pallavi R. Sasane and S.H. Karvar (2022). Combining Ability Assessment in Sunflower through Line × Tester Analysis. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 14(2a): 255-260.'),(5145,'134','Assessment of Genetic Diversity in 62 Maize Genotypes for Yield and Yield Accredited Traits','Anusha G.*, Bhadru D., Vanisri S., Usha Rani G., Mallaiah B. and Sridhar V.','43 Assessment of Genetic Diversity in 62 Maize Genotypes for Yield and Yield Accredited Traits ANUSHA G.pdf','',1,'Genetic diversity is an essential element for the development of new inbred lines of maize because it has pivotal importance for hybrid combinations in maize breeding. The present experiment was carried out to determine the genetic diversity of 62 maize genotypes by using D2 cluster analysis. Analysis of variance revealed the existence of significant variability among the genotypes. The sixty-two maize genotypes were grouped into five clusters i.e., I, II, III which comprised 28, 23, and 9 genotypes respectively. Whereas cluster IV and cluster V are solitary clusters. Cluster I (312.76) exhibited the highest intra-cluster distance. The highest inter-cluster distance of 9470.22 was found between cluster III (MGC-13, GP-111, MGC-68, GP-215, PFSR-151, BML-13, MGC-39, MGC-90 and MGC-109) and cluster V (BML-30F). The genotypes included in clusters III and V exhibited high genetic diversity along with high per se performance, suggesting the utilization of these genotypes for future maize improvement programs.','Maize, Genetic diversity, Variability, Cluster analysis','The results revealed the existence of highly significant differences among maize for grain yield and yield-related traits and 62 maize genotypes were classified into five groups based on the torcher method. The development of hybrids between identified divergent clusters III and V could yield heterotic hybrids. The genotype BML-30F was identified as high yielding and divergent genotype based on cluster analysis and per se performance. ','INTRODUCTION\r\nMaize (Zea mays L.) is the third most important cereal crop after wheat and rice in the world, contributing to food security and income in tropical and sub-tropical environments. It is a versatile crop grown over a range of agro-climatic zones due to its wider adaptability. Globally Maize occupies an area of 193.7 million hectares with a production of 1147.7 million tonnes and productivity of 5.75 tonnes per hectare (FAO STAT 2020). In India maize is cultivated in an area of 9.89million hectares with a production of 31.65 million tonnes and productivity of 31.99quintals per hectare (INDIA STAT, 2020-2021). The demand for maize global production as a source of food, forage, oil, and biofuel is increasing for the ever-increasing world human population. However, the number of maize landraces decreases in farmers’ fields over time, threatening the availability of genetic resources for the future. The assessment of diversity among the maize germplasm is important for identifying parental lines for successful breeding programs and hybrid development (Mengistu, 2021; Soliman et al., 2021). Genetic diversity may arise due to geographical separation or genetical barriers to crossability or due to different patterns of evolution. Thus, the study of diversity in inbreds of different origins may either complement or highlight new features of variation in the maize breeding program. The significance of genetically diverse genotypes as a source of obtaining transgressive segregants with desirable combinations has been reported by several researchers (Singh and Narayanan 2013; Hassan et al., 2018).\r\nAs a cross-pollinated crop, maize has maintained heterozygous balance under open population and exhibits heterosis in recombinants, particularly when inbreds differing for many genes affecting yield or some other characters of importance are used as parents. Inbred lines derived from the diverse genetic base were found to be more productive than crosses of inbred lines derived from closely related stocks (Moll et al., 1965; Vasal, 1998; Uday Kumar et al., 2013). To develop high-yielding hybrids in maize, inbred lines need to be evaluated for their genetic diversity which is important for planning an effective hybrid breeding program as genetically diverse parents are known to produce high heterotic effects (Matin et al., 2017). Further, the study of genetic divergence in the maize inbreds will help to ascertain the real potential value of the genotype.\r\nCharacterization of morphological variability allows the breeder to identify accessions with desirable characters and avoid duplication of accessions in available germplasm collection and their utilization in varietal improvement programs. Various biometrical techniques dealing with the genetic analysis of important characteristics guided the plant breeders in identifying the best genotypes for diverse environments. The estimation of genetic diversity through biometrical procedures such as Mahalanobis’s D2 statistics has made it possible to select genetically diverse parents for a breeding program. It also measures the degree of divergence and determines the relative proportion of each of the component characters to the total divergence. \r\nTherefore, in view of the above context, the present investigation was undertaken to assess the extent of genetic diversity in 62 maize inbred lines which will help to select prospective parents to develop superior hybrids\r\nMATERIAL AND METHODS\r\nThe present research work was undertaken at Maize Research Center (MRC), Rajendranagar, Hyderabad (27.2046°N, 77.4977°E) during Rabi, 2020-2021. A total of 62 maize genotypes (Table 1) were evaluated for yield and yield traits in a Randomized Block Design with two replications. Each entry was sown in two rows of 4min length and followed a spacing of 0.6m × 0.2m between row to row and plant to plant respectively. The standard agronomic management practices and plant protection measures were followed throughout the crop growing period to maintain proper plant stand. The observations for various characteristics like days to maturity, plant height (cm), ear height (cm), ear length (cm), ear girth (cm), kernel rows per ear, number of kernels per row, and 100-seed weight (g) were recorded on five randomly selected plants from each plot. Whereas, the characters i.e., days to 50 percent tasseling, days to 50 percent silking, and grain yield per plant were recorded on a plot basis. Data were subjected to analysis of Mahalanobis’ D2-statistics (Mahalanobis, 1936), and intra-cluster and inter-cluster distance, cluster mean and contribution of each trait to the divergence were estimated as suggested by Singh and Chaudhary (1985). Clustering of genotypes was done by using Tocher’s method (Rao, 1952). The cluster distance was estimated by the formula given by Singh and Chaudhary (1977). \r\nRESULTS AND DISCUSSION\r\nCluster analysis. The analysis of variance revealed significant differences among the 62 inbred lines for all the eleven characters, indicating the existence of sufficient genetic variability among the tested genotypes (Table 2). These findings are in accordance with those reported by Matin et al., (2017); Mounika et al. (2018). The sixty-two maize genotypes were grouped into 5 clusters based on various agro-morphological characters (Table 3 and Fig. 1). Cluster I comprised 28 genotypes, cluster II consisted of 23 genotypes, clusters III included 9 genotypes, and the remaining two clusters IV and V are the solitary clusters having only one inbred line indicating the uniqueness of the genotypes included in those clusters when compared to the other genotypes in the present study. Similar results pertaining to a grouping of maize germplasm were reported by Ivy et al. (2007); Talukder et al. (2012); Kumari et al. (2017). \r\nAverage intra and inter-cluster distance. The highest intra-cluster distance was observed in cluster I (312.76) followed by cluster III (268.68) and cluster II (261.91). The intra-cluster distance was not observed in clusters IV and V as these clusters had only one genotype each (Table 4 and Fig. 2). These results are in accordance with the findings reported by Singh et al. (2005); Patil et al. (2017). The highest intra-cluster distance indicated the presence of significant genetic diversity between the genotypes which were grouped together in those clusters. Hence, there is a great possibility for the exchange of genes among genotypes within these clusters. With regard to inter-cluster distance, cluster III and cluster V were found to be most diverse with each other as the distance between them was9470.22, which denotes that the crossing between these genotypes would provide good segregation for selection. The lowest inter-cluster distance was observed between clusters IV and V (461.48) which indicates that the genotypes included in those clusters were not very distant, but could not be grouped together based on these traits.\r\nCluster means showed a wide range of variation for 11 characters (Table 5). Cluster I exhibited the highest mean value for plant height and ear height, cluster II had the highest mean value for days to 50 percent silking and cluster III showed the highest mean value for days to 50 percent tasseling and days to maturity. Cluster IV had the highest mean value for ear length and the number of kernels rows per ear and cluster V showed the highest mean value for ear girth, the number of kernels per row, 100 seed weight, and grain yield (kg/ha). Cluster IV and V contained one genotype each, which exhibited the highest mean value for most of the yield-related traits. Thus these genotypes can be further used to improve the grain yield in future maize breeding programs. Most of the studies have reported that cluster analysis is found to be effective to classify the genotypes under different environmental conditions and helpful for the selection of superior parents for hybrid breeding programs (Al-Naggar et al., 2020; Bhatti et al., 2020 ; Khalid et al., 2020).\r\n','Anusha G., Bhadru D., Vanisri S., Usha Rani G., Mallaiah B. and Sridhar V. (2022). Assessment of Genetic Diversity in 62 Maize Genotypes for Yield and Yield Accredited Traits. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 14(2a): 261-265.'),(5146,'134','Prediction of Wheat Yield in Uttar Pradesh using Multiple Linear Regression Approach','Nitesh Kumar Yadav*, R. Vasanthi, R. Pangayar Selvi and Tmt. G. Vanitha','44 Prediction of Wheat Yield in Uttar Pradesh using Multiple Linear Regression Approach Nitesh Kumar Yadav.pdf','',1,'Development of effective agricultural and food policy at the regional and global levels, accurate crop production estimates are essential. Multiple regression approach has been used to prediction of the crop yield production widely. Thirty years (1991-2020) of weather data and yield data of wheat for thirteen districts of Uttar Pradesh are taken from Directorate of economics and Statistics and NASA metrological data, which are main producer of wheat was used to develop yield prediction equations. MLR model were validated by predicting yield of three years (2018,2019 and 2020) data. The results indicated that the district Muzaffarnagar has less Mean Absolute Percentage Error (0.07376), Mean Absolute Error (0.25552), Standard Error (0.3622) comparing to remaining districts. Using Backward regression in SPSS the variable Minimum temperature (Tmin) is found to be significant and influences Wheat yield in Muzaffarnagar district. For Aligarh district Relative humidity is found to be significant for Wheat Yield prediction. By analysing the results MLR is found to be the best fit for the district Muzaffarnagar and Aligarh since it has less MAPE value comparing to other districts. The model can be used to some extent to forecast the yield in various districts of Uttar Pradesh.\r\nHowever, One of the main producing region for wheat in both India and the rest of the world is the Uttar Pradesh Wheat yields in this area will be impacted by climate change due to variations in temperature and precipitation as well as decreasing water availability for irrigation, posing serious questions about the security of the food supply on a national and international level.\r\n','Multiple linear regression, Mean Absolute Error, Mean Absolute Percentage Error, Standard Error, Weather Indices','For thirteen districts in Uttar Pradesh, yield forecasts have been made for the wheat crops and it is found to be that the MLR model is best fit to the district Muzaffarnagar because it has less MAPE value (0.16), RMSE value (0.55) & MAE value (0.45) and also by seeing the result of Backward method in SPSS, Minimum temperature and Relative humidity influences Wheat yield in the district Muzaffarnagar and Aligarh respectively. The MLR model are also validated because the predicted yield was closed to observed yield. As a result, it could be used to predict wheat yield for all thirteen districts of Uttar Pradesh and found that Multiple Linear Regression is found to be the best fitted model.','INTRODUCTION\r\nAgriculture is the backbone of the Indian economy, the expansion of agriculture and related industries remains a vital role in the Indian economy\'s overall performance. For effective planning and policymaking in the nation\'s agriculture sector, two components—crop acreage estimation and crop yield forecasting—are essential (Lal et al., 1998). The estimation of agricultural output at the regional level serves as the foundation for planning crop production forecasts at the national level. Model based on weather variables can provide accurate predictions of crop output before harvest and early warning of pest and disease attacks, allowing for the timely implementation of relevant plant protection measures to protect the crops (Agrawal and Mehta 2007). An important project called FASAL, which is being carried out by the Ministry of Agriculture of the Government of India in conjunction with the Space Application Centre (SAC), the Institute of Economic Growth (IEG), and the India Meteorological Department, forecasts agricultural output using space, agrometeorology, and land-based observations (IMD). IMD develops intra-seasonal operational yield forecasts at district and state levels for 13 important crops of India throughout the kharif and rabi seasons using a statistical model as part of the FASAL project in partnership with 46 Agromet Field Units (AMFU) situated in various regions of the nation (Ghosh et al., 2014). Wheat is commonly grown for its seed, a cereal grain that is a staple diet for all across the world. The genus Triticum has numerous wheat species and the most frequently grown wheat is Triticum aestivum. Wheat is farmed on the most land on the comparison of any food crop. India\'s wheat production is 106.41 million tonnes in the 2021-22 crop season, which ends in June. Wheat and Rice is the main producing crop in India and these two crop play important role in the economic growth of our country. For the purpose of predicting the growth and yield of four cultivars of rice (Oryza sativa L.) under three transplanting dates, three agroclimatic models based on growing degree-days, helio-thermal units, and photo-thermal units were developed at Srinagar in 2004 and 2005. These cultivars were \"Jhelum,\" \"K 39,\" \"Shalimar rice 1,\" and \"China 1007.\" (25 May, 10 June and 25 June) (Singh et al., 2010). Wheat production reached 761 million tonnes in 2020, making it the second most widely grown cereal after maize, with a yearly production volume of 131,696,392 tonnes China is the world\'s greatest wheat producer and India is in second with a yearly production of 93,500,000 tonnes. Wheat is grown in three agroclimatic zones: western Uttar Pradesh (3.29 million hectares), eastern Uttar Pradesh (5.24 million ha), and central Uttar Pradesh (5.24 million ha) (0.68 million ha). The total area is 9.2 million hectares, with a total production of 24.5 million tonnes and a yield of 2.7 tonnes per hectare. The state of Uttar Pradesh produces the most wheat among all the states in India. It is situated in the Ganga\'s extremely fertile river basin. The state produces 300,00 tonnes of wheat. Wheat is produced on 96 lakh hectares in the state, on the whole 37% in India.\r\nMETHODOLOGY\r\nData Collection: Data were collected for 13 district in UP from 1991-2020 (30 Year) from NASA research centre for Solar and meteorological data and Directorate of economics and statistics. Variables considered for this study are namely Yield, Maximum temperature (Tmax), Minimum temperature (Tmin), Relative humidity, Rainfall (mm) and Ph respectively. In this study 13 district have selected because of there higher production in Uttar Pradesh.\r\nStatistical Method: The stepwise regression approach was used to pick the optimum regression equation from a large number of independent variables. The data was analysed using Rstudio software, with a probability level of 0.05 for entering and 0.1 for removing variables. To predict the yield of wheat for the subsequent years, a regression model was fitted using the entered variables derived via individual stepwise regression analysis. The multiple linear regression analysis was carried out for examining the Standard Error (SE) of estimated values resulting from various weather parameters. The statistical measures namely Mean absolute percentage error (MAPE), Mean absolute error (MAE) and Root Mean Square Error (RMSE) are used to fit the measured data to the degree of precision of each investigated correlation. Yield forecast model have been created for all thirteen wheat-producing districts.\r\nModel Performance Metrics: The effectiveness of the developed statistical models is examined using the mean absolute error (MAE), Mean absolute percentage error (MAPE) and Root Mean Square Error (RMSE). The following formula was used to calculate them:\r\nMAE= 1/n ∑_(i=1)^n▒|Y_i-Y ̂_i | \r\nMAPE= 100/n ∑_(i=1)^n▒|(Y_i-Y ̂_i)/Y_i | \r\nRMSE=[1/n ∑_(i=1)^n▒(Y_i-Y ̂_i )^2 ]^(1⁄2)\r\nYi = Actual value\r\nŶI = Model output\r\nThe generated models perform better when the RMSE approaches 0, and the model fits the data better when the MAE and MAPE values are lower.\r\nMAE: Mean Absolute Error is a model evaluation metric used with regression models. The mean absolute error of a model with respect to a test set is the mean of the absolute values of the individual prediction errors on over all instances in the test set. Each prediction error is the difference between the true value and the predicted value for the instance.\r\n\r\n \r\nMAE= 1/n ∑_(i=1)^n▒|Y_i-Y ̂_i | \r\nMAPE: The mean absolute percentage error (MAPE) it is also called the mean absolute percentage deviation (MAPD) which measures accuracy of a forecast system. It measures this accuracy as a percentage, and can be calculated as the \r\nMAPE= 100/n ∑_(i=1)^n▒|(Y_i-Y ̂_i)/Y_i | \r\nThe mean absolute percentage error (MAPE) is the most common measure used to forecast error, probably because the variable’s units are scaled to percentage units, which makes it easier to understand. It works best if there are no extremes to the data (and no zeros). It is often used as a loss function in regression analysis and model evaluation.\r\nRoot Mean Square Error (RMSE) is the standard deviation of the residuals (prediction errors). Residuals are a measure of how far from the regression line data points are; RMSE is a measure of how spread out these residuals are. In other words, it tells you how concentrated the data is around the line of best fit. Root mean square error is commonly used in climatology, forecasting, and regression analysis to verify experimental results.\r\nRMSE=[1/n ∑_(i=1)^n▒(Y_i-Y ̂_i )^2 ]^(1⁄2)\r\n\r\n\r\n \r\nRESULTS AND DISCUSSION\r\nTable 1 shows the yield fluctuations explained by the model for the wheat crop, along with the standard error. In all thirteen districts of Uttar Pradesh, The SE was ranged between 0.3622 (Muzaffarnagar) and 0.6023(Kanpur). The MAPE was ranged between 0.07367 (Muzaffarnagar) and 0.15322 (Gorakhpur). The MAE was ranged between 0.25552 (Muzaffarnagar) and 0.42938 (Gorakhpur). It is found to be that the MLR model is best fit for the district Muzaffarnagar since it has less MAPE value (0.07367). Among remaining 12 district, MLR suites for the district Aligarh (0.09032) since it has less MAPE next to the district Muzaffarnagar. This is comparable with the result of Singh et al. (2011).\r\nFor the validation of predicted model of wheat according to Singh et al. (2011) & Timbadia et al. (2021) for different district in the year 2018, 2019 and 2020 are shown in Table 2. Predicted yield was closed to observed yield; hence it can be utilised for yield forecasting and planning purpose. The results showed that, in relation to the main wheat-growing districts, the agro-meteorological yield model adequately predicted the yield variability caused by differences in minimum and maximum temperatures, rainfall as well as relative humidity. According to claim Singh et al.(2022) and Kumar et al. (2018), the per-hectare yield of wheat in India has decreased over the past few years as a result of the temperatures progressively rising in January, February, and March (This three month period are most crucial for the wheat crop). According to Lal et al. (1998) and Saxena et al. (2016)., in India, a rise of 0.5 °C in winter temperature is predicted to lower wheat production by 0.45 t ha-1 because maximum and lowest temperatures are particularly sensitive weather parameters for the wheat crop. \r\nThe maximum and minimum temperatures that prevailed during the cropping season have a significant impact on this region\'s wheat growing belts. The result revealed that agrometeorological yield model explained the yield variability due to variations in temperatures, rainfall and relative humidity during the different stages (tillering, panicle initiation, booting and physiological maturity). Maximum and minimum temperatures were found common agrometeorological indices for most of the districts of this region. \r\nHowever, rainfall with relative humidity is also proved important agrometeorological indices for some of the districts of Uttar Pradesh (Naushad Khan et al., 2020).\r\nTable 3 shows the result of MLR by Backward Method in SPSS. It is found to be that the Minimum temperature is significant at 5% level and hence the temperature plays a significant role in the yield of wheat in Muzaffarnagar district.\r\nTable 4 shows the result of MLR by Backward Method in SPSS. It is found to be that the Relative Humidity is significant at 5% level and hence the temperature plays a significant role in the yield of wheat in Aligarh district.\r\n','Nitesh Kumar Yadav*, R. Vasanthi, R. Pangayar Selvi and Tmt. G. Vanitha (2022). Prediction of Wheat Yield in Uttar Pradesh using Multiple Linear Regression Approach. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 14(2a): 266-270.'),(5147,'134','Effect of Integrated Weed Management Practices on Growth and Yield of Sesame (Sesamum indicum L.)','M. Venu*, G. Satyanarayana Reddy, N. Mahesh and M. Uma Devi','45 Effect of Integrated Weed Management Practices on Growth and Yield of Sesame _Sesamum indicum L._ M. Venu.pdf','',1,'A field experiment was performed to study the “Effect of integrated weed management practices on growth and yield of sesame (Sesamum indicum L.)” variety Swetha-Til at Agricultural college, PJTSAU, Polasa, Jagtial, during Summer 2022. The soil of the experimental site was sandy clay loam in texture. The experiment was laid in randomized block design with 11 treatments, 3 replications comprising of different weed management practices i.e. T1: Pendimethalin 30 % EC @ 0.75 kg ha-1 at 1-3 DAS fb 1 MW at 30 DAS, T2: Oxyflourfen 23.5 % EC @ 50 g ha-1 at 1-3 DAS fb 1 MW at 30 DAS, T3: Pre-mix of Pendimethalin 30 % + Imazethapyr 2 % EC @ 250 g ha-1 at 1-3DAS fb 1 MW at 30 DAS, T4: Pyroxasulfone 85 % WP @ 25 g ha-1 at 1-3 DAS fb 1 MW at 30 DAS, T5: Pendimethalin 30 % EC @ 0.75 kg ha-1 at 1-3 DAS fb Quizalofop-ethyl @ 50 g a.i. ha-1 at 20 DAS, T6: Oxyflourfen 23.5 % EC @ 50 g ha-1 at 1-3 DAS fb Quizalofop-ethyl @ 50 g a.i. ha-1 at 20 DAS, T7: Pre-mix of Pendimethalin 30 % + Imazethapyr 2 % EC @ 250 g ha-1 at 1-3 DAS fb Quizalofop-ethyl @ 50 g a.i. ha-1 at 20 DAS, T8: Pyroxasulfone 85 % WP @ 100 g ha-1 at 1-3 DAS fb Quizalofop-ethyl @ 50 g a.i. ha-1 at 20 DAS, T9: Mechanical weeding at 20 and 40 DAS, T10: Hand Weeding at 20 and 40 DASand T11:Weedy Check. The data revealed that among integrated weed management practices tested, pre-emergence application of pendimethalin 30 % EC @ 0.75 kg ha-1 at 1-3 DAS followed by mechanical weeding at 30 DAS(T1) shows highest growth parameters & yield parameters such as plant height (99.1 cm),dry matter accumulation (2581 kg ha-1), LAI (1.9), Number of filled grains capsule-1 (47.5), Number of Capsules plant-1 (58.1), test weight (2.91 g), seed yield (921 kg ha-1) and stover yield(1369 kg ha-1). The most effective and acceptable method of weed control is integrated weed management, which includes both manual/mechanical and chemical weeding.','Sesame, Integrated weed management, Pendimethalin, Quizalofop-ethyl, Imazethapyr, Pyroxasulfone, Yield','It was concluded that among the different weed management practices in sesame crop evaluated, two hand weedings at 20 and 40 DAS gives the maximum growth and yield compared to other practices, Among the integrated weed management practices tested, Treatment T1: Pendimethalin 30 % EC @ 0.75 kg ha-1 at 1-3 DAS fb 1 MW at 30 DAS gives the maximum growth and yield, this might be due to the control the weed population with in time, crop\'s use of its greatest amount of moisture and nutrients, with the application of pre emergence herbicide pendimethalin 750 g ha-1 and mechanical weeding at 30 DAS.','INTRODUCTION \r\nSesame (Sesamum indicum L.) (2n=26) belonging to the family Pedaliaceae is one of the earliest domesticated crops of India. It is grown in the tropics and subtropics in warm climates. India is one of the largest exporters of sesame and ranks first in both acreage (1.723 M ha) and production (0.817 M t) with average productivity (474 kg ha-1) (Indiastat, 2020-21). In India, 85% sesame production comes from the Gujarat, West Bengal, Andhra Pradesh, Telangana, Tamil Nadu, Madhya Pradesh, Rajasthan and Maharashtra states. In Telangana, it is grown over an area of 21,000 hectares with an annual production of 15000 tons and productivity of 714 kg ha-1. Sesame is grown in summer season in the districts of Northern Telangana viz., Adilabad, Jagtial, Karimnagar and Nizamabad in turmeric, cotton and rice fallows. The presence of weeds is a major obstacle in sesame production and can negatively influence sesame yield. Initial slow growth of sesame seedlings makes itself poor competitor with more vigorous weeds. The low competitiveness of this crop with weeds is directly linked to its slow initial growth (Mane et al., 2017). When weed control is not adopted, especially at initial periods, the sesame yield may be reduced by up to 75% (Bhadauria et al., 2012). Pre-emergence of herbicides like pendimethalin, imazethapyr, metribuzin, oxyfluorfen reduced the weed population significantly compared with weedy check but delayed the germination of sesame and caused sesame injury but no reduction in yield (Singh et al., 2018). Pre-emergence application of pendimethalin @ 0.75 kg ha-1 + 1 HW at 40 DAS recorded the highest seed yield of 1009 kg ha-1 (Mallick et al., 2020). Pyroxasulfone is a pre-emergence applied herbicide for selective control of grasses and small seeded broad leaf weeds. Pyroxasulfone is a group of herbicide that reduces the biosynthesis of very long chain fatty acids (VLCFAs) and acts on emerging seedlings by blocking lipid biosynthesis through inhibition of several VLCFAs (Busi, 2014).\r\nThough the conventional methods of weed control viz. hand weeding, mechanical weeding with manually operated star weeder etc. are very much effective but due to high wages and non-availability of labourers during the critical weeding season (15-30 DAS) and incessant protracted rains, use of herbicides and conjunction with cultural methods may be more time-saving, cost-effective, and effective in preventing early crop-weed competition. Therefore, integrated weed management (Manual/Mechanical as well as chemical weeding) is most efficient and acceptable approach to combat with the weed control problems. Evaluation of new herbicide molecules integrated with mechanical weeding may offer efficient weed management in sesame grown in Northern Telangana Zone. Hence, present experiment was undertaken to find out appropriate integrated weed management practice for sesame.\r\nMATERIALS AND METHODS\r\nThe field experiment was conducted during Summer 2022 at college farm (18º8435N latitude and 78º9498E longitude and 250.4 m above mean sea level) of Agricultural college, Polasa, Jagtial, Professor Jayashankar Telangana State Agricultural University. The weekly mean maximum temperature during the crop growth period ranged from 22.6°C to 40.8°C. The weekly mean minimum temperature during the crop growth period ranged from 15.3°C to 25.5°C. The weekly mean relative humidity recorded at 7.30 hr (RH-I) during the crop growth period varied from 39.9% to 88.9%. The mean weekly relative humidity at 14.00 hr (RH-II) varied from 31.0% to 52.7%. The weekly mean evaporation during the crop growth period ranged between 1.9 mm and 5.7 mm. The weekly mean bright sunshine hours day-1 varied from 3.5 to 9.3 hours. The soil of the experimental field was sandy clay loam in texture having slightly alkaline nature with pH (7.82), EC (0.21), organic carbon (0.61%), available nitrogen (182.7 kg ha-1), Available phosphorous (1.9 kg ha-1), available potassium (321 kg ha-1). This research work was laid in randomized block design (RBD) with three replications comprising of eleven treatments viz.T1: Pendimethalin 30 % EC @ 0.75 kg ha-1 at 1-3 DAS fb 1 MW at 30 DAS, T2: Oxyflourfen 23.5 % EC @ 50 g ha-1 at 1-3 DAS fb 1 MW at 30 DAS, T3: Pre-mix of Pendimethalin 30 % + Imazethapyr 2 % EC @ 250 g ha-1 at 1-3DAS fb 1 MW at 30 DAS, T4: Pyroxasulfone 85 % WP @ 25 g ha-1 at 1-3 DAS fb 1 MW at 30 DAS, T5: Pendimethalin 30 % EC @ 0.75 kg ha-1 at 1-3 DAS fb Quizalofop-ethyl @ 50 g a.i. ha-1 at 20 DAS, T6: Oxyflourfen 23.5 % EC @ 50 g ha-1 at 1-3 DAS fb Quizalofop-ethyl @ 50 g a.i. ha-1 at 20 DAS, T7: Pre-mix of Pendimethalin 30 % + Imazethapyr 2 % EC @ 250 g ha-1 at 1-3DAS fb Quizalofop-ethyl @ 50 g a.i. ha-1 at 20 DAS, T8: Pyroxasulfone 85 % WP @ 100 g ha-1 at 1-3 DAS fb Quizalofop-ethyl @ 50 g a.i. ha-1 at 20 DAS, T9: Mechanical weeding at 20 and 40 DAS, T10: Hand Weeding at 20 and 40 DAS and T11: Weedy Check. The seed of sesame “Swetha - Til” was sown on 8th February 2022 with 30 × 10 cm spacing in the plot size of 5.4 × 4.0 m. The fertilizer dose recommended for the cultivar under study is 60-20-40 kg N, P2O5 and K2O ha-1. N, P, K were applied at the time of sowing in the form of urea, single super phosphate and muriate of potash respectively. While urea was applied in split doses (½ as basal dose and remaining ½ at 30 DAS). Pre emergence herbicides are applied at 2 DAS. Observations were recorded on growth, yield attributes and yield. The collected data was statistically analysed by Analysis of Variance utilizing Randomized Block Design (Panse and Sukhatme 1978). Statistical difference (CD) will be tested by applying F-Test at 0.05 level of probability.\r\nRESULTS AND DISCUSSION \r\nA. Growth parameters as influenced by different weed management practices\r\nThe plant height of sesame crop was significantly influenced by different weed management practices, The Maximum plant height (104.3) was observed in treatment (T10). Two hand weedings at 20 and 40 DAS. Among the integrated weed management tested, Treatment (T1) Pendimethalin 30 % EC @ 0.75 kg ha-1 at 1-3 DAS fb 1 MW at 30 DAS shows the maximum plant height (99.1), followed by treatment (T3) : Pre-mix of Pendimethalin 30 % + Imazethapyr 2 % EC @ 250 g ha-1 at 1-3 DAS fb 1 MW at 30 DAS gives plant height (97.8) and minimum plant height (74.5) was observed in T11: Weedy check treatment, the plant height is maximum in T10 might with the hand weeding at appropriate time in crop, significantly control the weeds and crop\'s use of its greatest amount of moisture and nutrients. This was confirmed in findings of Singh et al. (2018); Aruna et al. (2020). The dry matter accumulation of sesame was influenced by different weed management practices, the maximum dry matter is observed in Treatment T10: Two hand weeding at 20 and 40 DAS (2700 kg ha-1), followed by (2581 kg ha-1) i.e., T1: Pendimethalin 30 % EC @ 0.75 kg ha-1 at 1-3 DAS fb 1 MW at 30 DAS and lowest dry matter (183.6 kg ha-1) was observed in T11: Weedy check treatment. This was confirmed in findings of Tamang et al. (2018). Leaf area index (LAI) was also significantly influenced by different weed management practices, Maximum LAI (1.89) was observed in treatment T10, that is statistically similar with T1 (1.88) and lowest LAI (1.32) was observed in treatment T11. This might be due to lowest plant height and less number of branches in weedy check plot. The results are in agreement with the finding of Tamang et al. (2018). These results are depicted in (Table 1).\r\nB. Yield Attributes of sesame as influenced by different weed management practices\r\nThe yield Attributes were significantly influenced by different weed management practices, Number of filled grains capsule-1, Number of Capsules plant-1, test weight (1000 seed weight). The highest number of filled grains capsule-1 (51.7) is observed in treatment T10, followed by treatment T1, among the integrated weed management practices, T1 shows highest number of filled grains capsule-1 (47.5) and lowest number filled grains capsule-1 (23.4) is observed in T11. This was confirmed in findings of Aruna et al. (2020). Maximum number of capsules plant-1 (61.7) were found T10, followed by treatment T1 and lowest number filled grains capsule-1 (23.4) is observed in T11. This might because of removal of weeds with in time with application of pendimethalin as pre-emergence herbicide combined with mechanical weeding at 30 DAS. Test weight of seeds highest (2.96) in treatment T10 is statistically similar with (2.91) with treatment T1, lowest test weight (2.6) observed in treatment T11. Bhadauria et al. (2012) also reported the same results. These observations are shown in (Table 2).\r\nThe treatment with having highest yield attributes gives highest yield content. The maximum seed yield (1057.1 kg ha-1) and stover yield (1570.3 kg ha-1) is given treatment T10. This may have because of hand weeding can effectively removing weeds within crop weed competition period and increased the crop\'s uptake of nitrogen and water while reducing the weed count. Among the integrated weed management practices highest seed yield (921.3 kg ha-1) and stover yield (1369.3 kg ha-1) are observed in T1. The lowest seed yield (412.3 kg ha-1) and stover yield (749 kg ha-1) are observed in T11. These findings are confirmed with Kamani et al. (2019).\r\n','M. Venu, G. Satyanarayana Reddy, N. Mahesh and M. Uma Devi (2022). Effect of Integrated Weed Management Practices on Growth and Yield of Sesame (Sesamum indicum L.). Biological Forum – An International Journal, 14(2a): 271-275.'),(5148,'134','Heterotic Performance of F1 Hybrids for Yield, its Components and Oil Content of Sunflower (Helianthus annuus L.)','Aditi R. Rajane*, Satish S. Nichal, Sangita U. Fhatak, E.R. Vaidya, Pallavi R. Sasane and Pranay P. Kale','46 Heterotic Performance of F1 Hybrids for Yield, its Components and Oil Content of Sunflower _Helianthus annuus L._ Aditi R. Rajane.pdf','',1,'The experimental material was developed by crossing five lines and twelve testers in L x T fashion. Parents and their 60 hybrids were evaluated in randomized block design with three replications at Oilseeds Research Unit, Dr. PDKV, Akola during kharif 2017. The highest standard heterosis over best check DRSH-1 for yield per plant was recorded by HA228A x AKSFI-16-4 (27.91 %) followed by HA208A x AKSFI-16-4 (17.71), HA208A × AKSFI-16-1 (15.67 %) and HA208A × AKSFI-16-2 (13.59 %). Cross HA303A x AKSFI-16-12 (5.94 %) exhibited highest useful heterosis for oil content followed by HA302A × AKSFI-16-1(4.77 %) and HA302A × AKSFI-16-12 (4.08 %) over the check DRSH-1. On the basis of mean performance, average heterosis, heterobetiosis and standard heterosis, the crosses HA228A × AKSFI-16-4, HA208A × AKSFI-16-4, HA208A × AKSFI-16-1, HA208 × AKSFI-16-2 and HA303A × AKSFI-16-12 were identified as promising crosses.','Heterosis, heterobeltiosis, standard heterosis, Randomized block design and line × tester design','In the present study, line × tester analysis was used as an appropriate method for the estimation of average heterosis, heterobeltiosis and standard heterosis.\r\nFive crosses (Table 3) viz., HA228A × AKSFI-16-4, HA208A × AKSFI-16-4, HA208A × AKSFI-16-1, HA208A × AKSFI-16-2 and HA303A × AKSFI-16-12 recorded significant standard heterosis for seed yield per plant over the check DRSH-1. Three crosses viz.,HA303A × AKSFI-16-12, HA302A × AKSFI-16-1 and HA302A × AKSFI-16-12 recorded significant standard heterosis for oil content. On the basis of mean seed yield performance, average heterosis, heterobeltiosis and standard heterosis, five crosses viz., HA228A × AKSFI-16-4, HA208A × AKSFI-16-4, HA208A × AKSFI-16-1, HA208A × AKSFI-16-2 and HA303A × AKSFI-16-12 were identified as promising crosses for seed yield. Based on results obtained from present study, it is concluded that superior hybrids for seed yield and oil content can be utilized for development of elite sunflower varieties.\r\n','INTRODUCTION\r\nSunflower is one of the most important oilseed crops grown for edible purposes in the world. Per capita consumption and requirements for edible oil is increasing. So the local production of hybrid seed with increased seed and oil yield is one of basic step to achieve the goal. An important direction of research work on sunflower is heterosis breeding. Heterosis or hybrid vigour is the increased or decreased vigour growth, fitness or yield of a hybrid over the parental value, resulting from the crossing of genetically unlike organisms (Shull 1908). \r\nIn sunflower poor seed set and high percentage of empty seeds are the major constrains. To overcome these constrains breeders have focused their attention towards production of hybrids through heterosis breeding which become possible due to discovery of cytoplasmic male sterility by Leclercq (1969) and fertility restoration by Kinnman (1970).\r\nExpression of high heterotic effects in sunflower made it to emerge as one of the important oilseed crops in the world (Ahmad et al., 2005). The present investigation revealed extent of heterosis (average heterosis, heterobeltiosis and standard heterosis) observed within the available genetic variability of crosses for various characters studied. The main purpose of this study is to identify superior cross combination for seed yield as well as for oil content, which would be certainly helpful for evolving superior hybrids in future.\r\nMATERIAL AND METHODS \r\nPresent research was conducted at Oilseeds Research Unit, Dr. PDKV, Akola. The parent material for the study consisted of five CMS lines viz., HA2228A, HA249A, HA302A, HA208A and HA303A and twelve restorer lines viz., AKSFI-16-1, AKSFI-16-2 AKSFI-16-3, AKSFI-16-4, AKSFI-16-5, AKSFI-16-6, AKSFI-16-7, AKSFI-16-8, AKSFI-16-9, AKSFI-16-10, AKSFI-16-11 and AKSFI-16-12. Crossing work was done in rabi 2016 and evaluation was done in kharif 2017, resultant 60 crosses and two checks (PDKVSH-952 and DRSH-1) were sown in RBD design with three replications for evaluation in line x tester fashion. Each entry was sown in one row of 4.5 m length in each replication. Inter and intra-row spacing was 60 cm and 30 cm, respectively. All the standard agronomic and plant protection measures were followed. The data was recorded on plant basis and plot basis, from each genotype in each replication on 5 randomly selected plants and their average values were computed for ten quantitative traits viz., days to 50% flowering, days to maturity, plant height at harvest (cm), head diameter (cm), hundred seed weight (g), volume weight (g/100ml), seed filling percentage, hull content (%), seed yield per plant (g) and oil content (%). Oil content of all genotypes was determined by using Bench top Pulse Nuclear Magnetic Resonance (NMR) Spectrometer (Model MQC OXFORD). Heterosis was calculated over mid parent, better parent and standard checks (PDKVSH-952 and DRSH-1) for seed yield, its components traits and oil content.\r\nRESULTS AND DISCUSSION\r\nThe Analysis of Variance carried out for the seed yield, its component characters and oil content are presented in Table 1. The mean sum of squares due to treatments (genotypes) were highly significant for all characters viz., days to 50 per cent flowering, days to maturity, plant height, head diameter, seed filling per cent, 100 seed weight, volume weight, hull content, seed yield and oil content. The mean sum of squares due to parents (lines & testers), Male (testers) × Female (lines), crosses and parents vs crosses were also found highly significant for all the characters studied. This indicated the presence of substantial genetic variability among the genotypes for all the characters studied. \r\nThe percentage of average heterosis (H1), heterobeltiosis (H2) and standard heterosis [(H3) and (H4)] for all the characters under study are given in the Table 2. In sunflower, positive heterosis is desirable for all characters studied except days to 50% flowering, days to maturity, plant height and hull content, for which negative heterosis is desirable.\r\nStandard heterosis for days to 50% flowering, days to maturity and plant height was calculated over the check PDKVSH-952 and for head diameter, 100 seed weight, volume weight, seed filling percentage, hull content, oil content, seed yield per plant was calculated over the checks DRSH-1.\r\nIn sunflower, early flowering is generally considered as desirable character. The range of average heterosis was recorded from -9.81 to 6.29 per cent. Out of 60 crosses, 21 crosses, showed significant negative heterosis for this character and highest significant negative heterosis was recorded bycross HA228A × AKSFI-16-7 (-14.03%) followed by HA228A × AKSFI-16-2 (-13.27%) and HA228A × AKSFI-16-3 (-12.35%). Heterobeltiosis was ranged from -18.18 to 6.92 per cent. Out of 60 crosses, eight crosses showed significant heterobeltiosis in negative direction and among eight crosses, highest significant negative heterobeltiosis was recorded by cross HA228A × AKSFI-16-2 (-9.81%) followed by HA228A × AKSFI-16-7 (-9.43%) and HA228A × AKSFI-16-3 (-9.15%). For days to 50% flowering, the standard heterosis ranged from -11.66% to 4.29%. Out of 60 crosses, 14 crosses showed significant negative standard heterosis for the trait over standard check PDKVSH-952.Among fourteen crosses, highest significant negative standard heterosis was recorded by cross HA228A x AKSFI-16-7 (-11.66%) followed by HA228A × AKSFI-16-2 (-9.82%), HA303A × AKSFI-16-12 (-9.20%) and HA228A × AKSFI-16-3 (-8.59%).\r\nSimilarly early maturity is desired trait in sunflower. For mid parental heterosis 19 crosses were showing significant negative heterosis. The average heterosis ranged from -8.18 to 5.47 and highest significant negative heterosis was recorded by HA302A × AKSFI-16-5 (-8.18 per cent) followed by HA302A × AKSFI-16-4 (-8.01 per cent) and H228A × AKSFI-16-3 (-7.32 per cent). For heterobeltiosis, out of 60 crosses, six crosses were showing significant negative heterosis and highest negative heterobeltiosis was recorded HA302A × AKSFI-16-5 (-8.18 per cent) followed by HA302A × AKSFI-16-4 (-7.83 per cent), HA302A × AKSFI-16-4 (-8.18 per cent) and HA228A × AKSFI-16-3 (-4.51 per cent). Range of standard heterosis for days to maturity was recorded from -10.83 per cent to 4.33 per cent over the standard check PDKVSH-952. Out of 60 crosses, 33 crosses showed significant negative standard heterosis for this trait and highest significant negative heterosis was registered by cross HA302A × AKSFI-16-4 (-10.83 per cent) followed by HA302A × AKSFI-16-5 (-10.83 per cent) and HA228A × AKSFI-16-3 (-8.30 per cent).\r\nAverage heterosis for plant height ranged from 0.57 to 65.77 per cent (Table 3). None of the crosses exhibited negative heterosis for plant height. Heterobeltiosis ranged from 5.68 to 78.63 per cent. The cross HA228A x AKSFI-16-10 (5.68 per cent) exhibited highest heterobeltiosis followed by HA303A × AKSFI-16-6 (15.37 per cent) and HA228A×AKSFI-16-2 (15.90 per cent).For the plant height, standard heterosis ranged from -36.12 to 4.56 per cent over check PDKVSH-952. 49 crosses were negatively significant for this character. Maximum negative heterosis was exhibited by crosses HA249A × AKSFI-16-2 (-36.12 per cent) followed by HA302A × AKSFI-16-1 (-29.13 per cent) and HA228A × AKSFI-16-2 (-28.78 per cent).\r\nFor head diameter, out of 60 hybrids, 51 hybrids recorded significant average heterosis in positive direction. The least heterosis of -3.65 per cent has been recorded by the hybrid HA303A × AKSFI-16-3, while highest heterosis of 222.32 per cent was recorded by the hybrid HA208A × AKSFI-16-1 followed by HA208A × AKSFI-16-8 (194.57 per cent) and HA208A × AKSFI-16-12 (134.70). The heterosis over better parent ranged from -10.91 per cent to 177.49 per cent. Out of 60 hybrids, 39 hybrids recorded significant heterobeltiosis in positive direction. The cross HA208A ×AKSFI-16-1 (177.49 per cent) exhibited highest positive heterobeltiosis followed by HA208A × AKSFI-16-8 (170.48 per cent) and HA208 × AKSFI-16-12 (66.60 per cent). For the head diameter, range of standard heterosis over the check DRSH-1 was -30.15 per cent (HA228A × AKSFI-16-10) to 13.24 per cent (HA303A × AKSFI-16-12) and cross, HA303A × AKSFI-16-12 (13.24%) exhibited maximum positive standard \r\nheterosis followed by cross HA302A × AKSFI-16-4 (12.38%) and HA208A × AKSFI-16-2 (11.40%).\r\nAverage heterosis for 100 seed weight ranged from -15.22 to 81.33 per cent. Most of the crosses exhibited significant positive average heterosis, the cross HA228A × AKSFI-16-3 (81.33%) exhibited maximum positive average heterosis followed by the cross HA228A × AKSFI-16-4 (63.64%) and HA249A × AKSFI-16-8 (60.00%). Heterobeltiosis ranged from -18.00 to 61.90 per cent. The crosses HA228A × AKSFI-16-3 (61.90%) exhibited maximum significant positive heterobeltiosis followed by the cross HA249A × AKSFI-16-8 (60.00%) and HA208A × AKSFI-16-8 (59.00%). Standard heterosis over check DRSH-1 ranged from -22.00 to 36.00 per cent. The cross HA228A × AKSFI-16-3 (36.00%) recorded maximum standard heterosis, followed by the cross HA303A × AKSFI-16-12 (32.00%), HA228A × AKSFI-16-4 (26.00%) and HA228A × AKSFI-16-12 (26.00%) and the maximum negative heterosis recorded by HA249A × AKSFI-16-11 and HA302A × AKSFI-16-2 (-22.00%).\r\nRange of heterosis for volume weight was from 2.56 per cent to 44.65 per cent. 55 crosses recorded significant positive volume weight. HA249A × AKSFI-16-2 (44.65%) recorded highest significant positive heterosis followed by HA208A × AKSFI-16-2 (43.07 %) and HA249A × AKSFI-16-8 (42.31 %). For heterobeltiosis (H2), out of 60, 45 crosses recorded significant positive heterobeltiosis. Range of heterobeltiosis was from -9.66 per cent to 40.45 per cent. Highest heterobeltiosis was exhibited by HA249A × AKSFI-16-8 (40.45 %) followed by HA228A × AKSFI-16-12 (36.29 %) and HA303A × AKSFI-16-12 (36.29 per cent). Highest negative heterobeltiosis was exhibited by HA302A × AKSFI-16-5 (-9.66 %). For volume weight, standard heterosis ranged from -20.39 per cent to 13.38 per cent over the standard check DRSH-1. 7 crosses exhibited significant positive heterosis. HA208A × AKSFI-16-4 (13.38 %) recorded highest useful heterosis followed by HA303A × AKSFI-16-12 (11.18%) and HA228A × AKSFI-16-3 (9.87%). Highest negative heterosis was recorded by HA302A × AKSFI-16-6(-20.39 %).\r\nFor seed filling percentage, average heterosis ranged from -45.25 to 50.33 per cent (Table 2). Maximum significant positive average heterosis was recorded by HA228A × AKSFI-16-4 (50.33%) followed by HA303A × AKSFI-16-12 (46.69 %) and HA208A × AKSFI-16-12 (39.33 %). The heterobeltiosis ranged from -45.40 to 37.31 per cent. 14 crosses recorded significant positive heterobeltiosis. Maximum positive heterobeltiosis observed in cross HA228 × AKSFI-16-4 (37.31 %) followed by HA303A × AKSFI-16-12 (27.53 %) and HA228A × AKSFI-16-3 (25.09 %). Range of standard heterosis for percentage of filled seeds per head over DRSH-1 was observed from -47.21 to 32.04 per cent. \r\n\r\n\r\n\r\nOut of 60 crosses, 10 crosses exhibited positive and significant standard heterosis for this trait. The cross HA228A × AKSFI-16-4(32.04 %) exhibited maximum positive standard heterosis followed by cross HA303A × AKSFI-16-12 (25.92 %) and HA228A × AKSFI-16-3 (20.29 %)\r\nNegative heterosis is desirable for hull content. Heterosis (H1), i.e. average heterosis ranges from -64.06 per cent to 60.62 per cent. Forty-six crosses were showing highly significant negative heterosis andcross HA249A × AKSFI-16-5 (-64.06 %) showed highest negative heterosis followed by HA228A × AKSFI-16-5 (-58.35%) and HA208A × AKSFI-16-12 (-50.46%). Highest positive heterosis was recorded by HA208A × AKSFI-16-8 (60.62 %). Heterobeltiosis ranged from -67.08 per cent to 58.23 per cent. Out of sixty, forty-nine crosses showed highly significant negative heterosis. Cross HA228A × AKSFI-16-5 (-67.08%) and HA249A × AKSFI-16-5 (67.08 %) exhibited highest significant negative heterosis and followed by HA302A x AKSFI-16-10 (-60.44 %) and HA303A × AKSFI-16-5 (-51.98 %). Useful heterosis ranged from -44.61 per cent to 82.36 per cent. Thirty-three crosses recorded highly significant negative useful heterosis. Top ranking crosses for significant negative useful heterosis wereHA228A × AKSFI-16-5 (-44.61 %), HA249A × AKSFI-16-5 (-44.61 %), HA302A × AKSFI-16-10 (-44.61 %), HA302A × AKSFI-16-12 (-44.61 %), HA208A × AKSFI-16-4 (-44.61 %) and HA208A x AKSFI-16-12 (-44.61 %).\r\nFor oil content, mid parental heterosis was ranged from -5.44 per cent to 17.80 per cent. Forty-one crosses registered highly significant heterosis while five were significant. Cross HA208A × AKSFI-16-2(17.80 %) reported highest heterosis followed by HA208A × AKSFI-16-10 (17.50 %) and HA228A × AKSFI-16-12 (16.64 %). For heterobltiosis (H2), seventeen crosses registered highly significant positive heterobeltiosis while one was significant. The range of heterobeltiosis was from -8.89 per cent to 13.12 per cent. HA208A × AKSFI-16-10 (13.12 %) exhibited highest positive significant heterobeltiosis followed by HA249A × AKSFI-16-10 (12.04 %) and HA228A × AKSFI-12 (10.37 %). Range of useful heterosis was from -9.22 percent to 5.94 per cent. Three crosses exhibited significant positive useful heterosis over the check DRSH-1. Cross HA303A × AKSFI-16-12 (5.94 %) exhibited highest useful heterosis followed by HA302A × AKSFI-16-1(4.77 %) and HA302A × AKSFI-16-12 (4.08 %). Cross HA249A × AKSFI-16-11 (-9.22 %) registered highest negative useful heterosis. Phad et al. (2002), Sujatha and Reddy (2009); Neelima and Rafi (2013); Venkata and Nadaf (2013); Qamar et al. (2015); Sapkale et al. (2016) have also reported high seed yielding hybrids having early maturity and good oil content.\r\nFor seed yield per plant, range of mid parental heterosis was from 37.86 per cent to 494.44 per cent. All crosses exhibited highly significant positive heterosis. Highest positive significant heterosis was recorded by HA208A × AKSFI-16-1 (494.44 %) followed by HA208A × AKSFI-16-2 (477.24 %), HA208A × AKSFI-16-12 (423.49 %) and HA208A × AKSFI-16-4 (402.78 %). Heterobeltiosis ranged from -6.03 per cent to 412.92 per cent. Fifty-seven crosses showed significant positive heterobeltiosis for seed yield per plant. For heterobeltiosis top ranking cross was HA208A × AKSFI-16-1 (412.92 %) followed by HA208A × AKSFI-16-2 (394.10 %) and HA249A × AKSFI-16-8 (390.95 %). Useful heterosis for seed yield ranged from -47.51 per cent to 27.91 per cent. Five crosses recorded significant positive useful heterosis for seed yield per plant. HA228A × AKSFI-16-4 (27.91 %) recorded highest useful heterosis followed by HA208A × AKSFI-16-4 (17.71), HA208A × AKSFI-16-1 (15.67 %) and HA208A × AKSFI-16-2 (13.59 %).Similar results were reported by Phad et al. (2002); Volotovich et al. (2008); Massod et al. (2009); Neelima and Parameshwarappa (2009); Dutta et al. (2011); Chandra et al. (2013); Thakare (2014); Depar et al. (2017).','Aditi R. Rajane, Satish S. Nichal, Sangita U. Fhatak, E.R. Vaidya, Pallavi R. Sasane and Pranay P. Kale (2022). Heterotic Performance of F1 Hybrids for Yield, its Components and Oil Content of Sunflower (Helianthus annuus L.). Biological Forum – An International Journal, 14(2a): 276-285.'),(5149,'134','Genetic Variations and Selection Coefficients for Agronomic, Physiological and Quality Traits towards Sugarcane Improvement for Waterlogged conditions','Gulzar S. Sanghera*, Navdeep S. Jamwal, and Aishwarya Saini','47 Genetic Variations and Selection Coefficients for Agronomic, Physiological and Quality Traits towards Sugarcane Improvement for Waterlogged Conditions Gulzar S Sanghera.pdf','',1,'Sugarcane production and quality is highly affected by various biotic and abiotic stresses. Among abiotic stresses, water logging or submerged condition is an important factor affecting cane and sugar yield, globally. For crop improvement under waterlogged conditions, the genetic variability in sugarcane needs to be explored under specific stress. To determine the contribution of different agronomic, physiological and quality traits towards cane and sugar present study was conducted under waterlogged conditions using 44 diverse sugarcane clones/varieties. Analysis of variation revealed significant difference among clones for all the characters under study. High phenotypic and genotypic coefficients of variation were observed for the total chlorophyll (32.86 % and 31.24%), while single cane weight recorded high PCV (23.96%) only. High heritability (broad sense) was observed for number of internodes (92.89%) followed by total chlorophyll (90.38%), stalk length (84.92%) cane yield (73.55%) and commercial cane sugar (t/ha) (69.65%). Similarly high genetic advance (percent mean) was observed only for total chlorophyll (61.18%) under waterlogged environment. Cane yield had shown significant correlation with single cane weight (0.41, 0.251), stalk diameter (0.365, 0.280), number of internodes (0.296, 0.236) and dry biomass (0.361, 0.224) at phenotypic and genotypic level, respectively. Path analysis revealed high positive direct effect of number of millable canes (0.349) (phenotypic) and leaf area (2.646) (genotypic) on cane yield while stalk diameter had highest positive significant indirect effects on cane yield via dry biomass (0.159) and number of millable canes (2.53) at phenotypic and genotypic levels, respectively. The traits exhibiting positive association with cane yield and quality should be given due emphasis in development of sugarcane varieties for the waterlogging conditions. ','Sugarcane, Genetic variability, Correlation and Path analysis','It is evident from present study that sugarcane is suitable cultivation under waterlogging conditions within some catchment areas under rivers basins in Punjab but lack of suitable varieties poses a hindrance in increasing the cane yield and sucrose. Information generated on genetic variability for different agronomic, physiological and quality traits under waterlogging can help to develop of tolerant varieties. The present results suggest that the sugarcane yield is significantly associated with single cane weight, stalk diameter, number of internodes and dry biomass for higher cane yield under waterlogging conditions. Most of the yield and quality related traits have shown moderate to low heritability and genetic advance. Path analysis revealed high positive direct effect of number of millable canes and leaf area on cane yield while stalk diameter had highest positive significant indirect effects on cane yield via dry biomass and number of millable canes. In sugarcane varietal development programme selection for these traits in association with commercial traits would lead to a significant improvement in cane and sugar yield under water logged conditions to harness economic returns for sugar industry and farming community. ','INTRODUCTION\r\nSugarcane (Saccharum spp. hybrid complex) is one of the leading industrial crops in the world where India holds position of second largest sugarcane producing country with an area of about 5.06 million hectares and production of 405.42 million tones after Brazil (FAO 2021). In Punjab, sugarcane occupies an area of about 96 thousand hectares with an average cane yield of 836 quintals per hectare (Anonymous, 2020). It is a primary commodity for sugar production that provides nearly 80% of the world’s overall sugar production along with ethanol production as renewable bio-fuel. It is also used for manufacturing of chemicals, paper, bio-manure, paper board factories and cogeneration plants. \r\nSugarcane production and quality is highly affected by various biotic and abiotic stresses. Among abiotic stresses, waterlogging or submerged condition is an important factor affecting cane yield and sugar, globally. In India, 11.60 million hectares area is affected by waterlogging stress and 10-20% of this area is under sugarcane cultivation which is one of the reasons of poor sugarcane productivity or recovery of sugar. Under waterlogging the soil pores fill with water and causes oxygen deficiency (i.e. hypoxia and anoxia conditions) resulting shift of aerobic respiratory metabolism pathway into anaerobic pathway and production of reactive oxygen species viz., radical superoxide, hydroxyl radical, singlet oxygen and hydrogen peroxidase have started as soon as plants experience stress (Garnczarska et al., 2004). The reactive oxygen species trigger lipid peroxidation and leads to discharge of cellular material, breakdown of proteins, deactivation of enzymes, damaging of DNA, membrane damage and damages the oxidative processes and causes cell death. Being a moderately tolerant to waterlogging conditions, duration of waterlogging and physiological stage determines the loss in yield and quality of sugarcane (Deren et al., 1991). The waterlogging affects on cane expansion and inhibition in growth of characters i.e., plant height, total biomass and number of tillers. The reduction in crop growth under water logging is due to number of factors i.e., closing of stomata which results in lower transpiration rate, low photosynthesis rate due to decrease in leaf area, whereas increase in respiration rate in submerged organs (Gomathi et al., 2014). Mean yield loss of sugarcane due to waterlogging stress is approximately 15-25% and in some cases, this limit can exceed 40% according to the period of flooding and stage of crop (Gomathi and Chandran 2009). In Punjab, most of sugarcane is cultivated in catchment areas alongside the rivers Ravi, Beas and Sutlej are highly affected by waterlogging (Sanghera and Jamwal 2019). It can be better exploited for sugarcane production and better sugar recovery if specific varieties be developed for these specified adaptations.\r\nFor improvement of sugarcane under waterlogged conditions, the genetic variability in sugarcane needs to be explored under specific stress. The heterozygous and polyploid nature of sugarcane has resulted in generation of greater genetic variability. The information on the nature and the magnitude of variability present in the genetic material is of prime importance for a breeder to initiate any effective selection program. Knowledge of genotypic and phenotypic coefficients of variation along with heritability as well as genetic advance is very useful to improve any trait of interest because this would help in knowing whether or not the desired objective can be achieved from the material (Gomathi et al., 2014; Sanghera and Jamwal 2019). While under the stress, genotype behave differently and show diverse response compared to normal conditions. The genetic tolerance of genotype plays an important role in coping up with the stress through modifying its morphological, physiological and biochemical traits. The effect of these traits ultimately influences the economic traits which is cane yield and sucrose accumulation in sugarcane. Hence, it is necessary to study the association and path coefficients of different traits with economically important traits viz., cane yield and sugar. This will help the breeders to design the selection strategies for developing the waterlogging stress tolerance sugarcane varieties. In past, very scanty information/research has been documented on exploiting the waterlogging aspect in sugarcane agriculture particularly in Punjab state representing North-west zone of the country under sub-tropical conditions. Taking into account of all the above concerns especially waterlogging conditions in river basin areas of the state, the present study was planned to examine the extent of genetic variability parameters, association and path coefficients of different cane yield components, physiological and quality traits of sugarcane clones under waterlogging condition of Punjab.\r\nMATERIAL AND METHODS\r\nThe experiment was conducted at PAU Regional Research Station (RRS), Kapurthala (31.38ºN longitude and 75.38ºE latitude) during 2019-2020. The minimum and maximum mean weekly temperature varied from 5.1°C to 27.6°C and from 12.7°C to 44.4°C, respectively. The total rainfall during crop season was 984.9mm. Forty-four diverse sugarcane clones/varieties developed at RRS Kapurthala except five varieties viz., Bo-91, Bo-153, Bo-154, CoP-2061 and CoP-9437 were introduced from Dr Rajendra Prasad Central Agricultural University, Pusa (Samastipur), Bihar were involved in the present investigation. The experiments were carried out in Randomized Complete Block Design with two replications in waterlogged conditions. In each replication, each clone/variety was planted in a plot of 4 rows of 4 m length maintaining inter row spacing of 90 cm. The seed rate was 12 buds per running meter row length. The standard agronomic practices as per package of practices of the sugarcane were followed to raise the ideal crop stand except irrigation under waterlogged conditions. Under waterlogging, submerged conditions was imposed at tillering stage, formative/grand growth stage and maturation stage. \r\nThe observations on different cane yield and component traits, physiological and quality traits were recorded at appropriate stages for each clone/variety in each replication under waterlogging. The data were recorded for germination (%) after 45 days, number of millable canes (NMC) (000/ha), stalk length (cm), stalk diameter (cm), single cane weight (kg), number of internodes, cane yield (t/ha) and juice quality traits were recorded at harvest which included brix (%), sucrose (%), purity (%), commercial cane sugar (CCS) (%), extraction (%) and commercial cane sugar (CCS) (t/ha) at time harvesting. The physiological traits including average internode length (cm), leaf area (cm2), number of stomata and dry biomass (g/plant) were recorded. The total chlorophyll in leaves \r\nThe data were statistically analyzed according to randomized complete block design using software CPCS1 (Cheema and Singh 1990). The phenotypic and genotypic coefficients of variation, heritability (broad sense) and genetic advance (percent mean) were measured. The phenotypic and genotypic coefficients of variation were measured as per Burton and Devane (1953); Johnson et al. (1955). Heritability (%) in broad sense was measured with the formula proposed by Allard (1960). Genetic advance for each trait was measured using formula proposed by Miller et al. (1958). The phenotypic and genotypic correlation coefficients were calculated as proposed by Al-Jibouri et al. (1958). Path coefficient analysis was carried out as per Dewey and Lu (1959). \r\nRESULTS AND DISCUSSION\r\nThe analysis of variance for 18 agronomic, physiological and quality traits revealed mean sum of squares for genotypes were found significant for all cane yield, physiological and quality traits recorded in this study (Table 1). The results indicated that clones have sufficient genetic variability for all the traits under waterlogged conditions which further opened the possibility to identify specific clones suitable under waterlogging conditions through selection (Punia, 1982). Similar results were reported by Krishna et al. (2017) where significant analysis of variance for cane yield and quality traits has been observed under waterlogging conditions. The range for cane yield varied between 43.51 to 73.66 t/ha, number of millable canes varied from 55.76 to 96.89 thousand/ha, while sucrose varied from 13.27 to 17.26 per cent, commercial cane sugar (%) lied between 9.08 to 12.05 per cent and sugar yield (CCS) (t/ha) ranged from 4.57 to 8.76 t/ha (Table 2). Simple analysis of variance and range is unable to explain all the inherent genetic variability in the genotypes for the given trait. Therefore, selection and identification of suitable genotypes depends on the magnitude of inherent variability for a particular trait. Hence, it is essential to study the estimates of genetic parameters such as coefficients of genotypic and phenotypic variability, heritability and genetic advance (Sanghera et al., 2018).\r\nGenetic Variability parameters. The extent of genetic variability decides the improvement of any trait. The range of mean values and analysis of variance represents tentative estimates of the variation present among different genotypes for the given character. The genotypic and phenotypic coefficient of variation was computed after partitioning of variance along broad sense heritability and genetic advance per cent mean (Table 2). The results indicated the phenotypic coefficient of variation (PCV) were higher than genotypic coefficient of variation (GCV) which revealed that the variations in the genotypes is not due to genetic makeup but it was due to environmental variations under waterlogging. But the difference between PCV and GCV is low for most of traits indicating high prospects for genetic progress through selection under waterlogging conditions. Similar observations were reported by Ram (2005); Behou and Pene (2020). The genotypic coefficient of variation alone couldn’t provide estimate of degree and magnitude of improvement that can be expected by phenotypic selection. Hence heritability along with genetic advance is more effective and reliable in predicting the response to selection by providing more genetic information about the trait. It also indicates the possibility and extent of improvement that can be achieved through selection for a particular trait.\r\nCane yield and its component traits. Cane yield is depended upon its component traits for improvement in sugarcane. Under waterlogging conditions, cane yield is highly influenced through its yield related traits. Under this study moderate PCV and GCV for cane yield and six related traits was recorded except high PCV for single cane weight (23.96 %) and low GCV for stalk diameter (8.15%) (Table 2). High broad sense heritability (>60%) was recorded for all cane yield traits except stalk diameter (59.85%) and single cane weight (51.31%) whereas moderate genetic advance (20-30%) was recorded for all cane yield traits except for stalk diameter (12.99%) and stalk length (19.24%) (Table 2). These results are in conformity with the findings of Krishna et al. (2017) who recorded moderate genotypic and phenotypic coefficient of variation under waterlogging for germination, number of millible cane, cane yield (t/ha), sugar yield (CCS t/ha) stalk length (cm) and high broad sense heritability for all the traits and moderate genetic advance for germination and number of millable canes. Identical results had been documented by Agrawal and Kumar (2017); Belwal and Ahmad (2020b); Krishna et al. (2017); Kumar et al. (2017) who reported moderate PCV and GCV along with high to moderate heritability and moderate genetic advance for various traits under waterlogged conditions. These values suggest that selection of these traits should be effective in later segregating generations i.e. by hybridization programme to exploit heritability for developing improved waterlogging tolerant clones.\r\nPhysiological traits. Five physiological traits were recorded under waterlogging where total chlorophyll recorded high phenotypic (32.86 %) and genotypic (31.24%) coefficient of variation along with high broad sense heritability (90.38%) and high genetic advance (61.18%) (Table 2). High GCV and PCV for the trait indicated that selection might be effective on traits investigated and their expression might be relevant to the genotypic potential (Pene and Behou 2019). High heritability coupled with high genetic advance indicated that the trait was controlled by additive gene action. The substantial improvement can be expected by practicing selection for these traits comprised high heritability (broad sense) and genetic advance (percent mean). Leaf area and dry biomass recorded high heritability but moderate PCV, GCV and genetic advance (Table 2). Similarly, Krishna et al. (2017) recorded high heritability and moderate PCV, GCV and genetic advance for leaf area index under waterlogging.\r\nCane quality traits. Sugar is the end product of the sugarcane whose extraction is determined by the quality traits of sugarcane. Abiotic stresses interfere with sugar production by affecting purity, higher acidity, and the sucrose content of the stalk. So, it becomes crucial to identify those quality traits which impact more on sugar recovery from sugarcane under waterlogging conditions. Lower magnitude of phenotypic and genotypic coefficient of variation along with moderate to low heritability (broad sense) and low genetic advance was observed for all cane quality traits except commercial cane sugars (CCS t/ha) which recorded moderate magnitude of PCV (16.89 %), GCV (14.10 %) and genetic advance (24.23%) but high broad sense heritability (69.65%) (Table 2). Similar results of low PCV and GCV for quality traits under waterlogged conditions are in accordance with Kumar et al. (2017) and for sucrose (%) with Belwal and Ahmad (2020b). Agrawal and Kumar (2017) also observed low PCV and GCV for brix (%), purity (%) and low GCV for stalk diameter and CCS (%) under waterlogged conditions. Low genotypic coefficient of variation indicated that the parental clones used in the development have narrow genetic background. Earlier workers (Agrawal and Kumar 2017; Belwal and Ahmad 2020b) reported lower estimate of heritability and genetic advance under waterlogged conditions for brix (%) and CCS (%) which are in confirmation with the present findings. Lower value could be due to the environmental influence on the expression of these traits as is also indicated by differences in phenotypic and genotypic coefficient of variation values. The direct selection could not be much effective for these traits. The low levels of genetic advance obtained for some agronomic and quality traits could be attributed to low levels of genotypic coefficient of variation. \r\nAssociation analysis. Cane yield is a complex trait determined by number of contrasting traits and environment in which crop is grown. Selection based on strongly correlated contrasting traits is more efficient than direct selection for such complex trait. Stronger the correlation between the traits and yield, greater the likelihood of success in the selection programme. The correlation coefficient is a statistical measure that helps to evaluate the degree and direction of relationship between two or more traits. Once the significant genetic association between easily observable traits and yield is identified, the selection process will be accelerated because genetic association provides information on the correlated response to selection.\r\nUnder waterlogging conditions phenotypic and genotypic correlation coefficient of cane yield was found positively significant with stalk diameter (0.281 and 0.365), single cane weight (0.251 and 0.400), number of internodes (0.236 and 0.296) and dry biomass (0.224 and 0.361). While, germination (%) (0.320) and leaf area (0.256) have recorded significantly positive correlation at genotypic level with cane yield (Table 3).\r\nFor quality traits, commercial cane sugar (t/ha) had significantly positive phenotypic and genotypic correlation coefficient with most of the quality traits i.e., brix (%) (0.425 and 0.532), sucrose (%) (0.535 and 0.630), purity (%) (0.240 and 0.375) and CCS (%) (0.591 and 0.606) under waterlogging (Table 4). Identical results for significant and positive correlation of cane yield with single cane weight, stalk length and brix (%) are in confirmation with earlier findings of Kumar et al. (2018), while with germination (%), number of millable canes, sucrose (%) and CCS (t/ha) are in agreement with Belwal and Ahmad (2020a). Krishna and Kamat (2017) also reported significant positive correlation of cane yield with germination (%), number of millable canes, stalk length, single cane weight, stalk diameter, leaf area index and CCS (t/ha) under waterlogged conditions. Palachai et al. (2019) also reported positive correlation between single cane weight and cane yield under waterlogging. The genotypic correlation coefficients were found to be higher in magnitude than the corresponding phenotypic correlation coefficients. This showed that there was an inherent correlation among the studied traits, which was depressed due to the effect of environment and eventually resulted in low phenotypic expression. Based on the association analysis, traits such as cane yield, stalk diameter, single cane weight, leaf area, dry biomass and CCS (t/ha) were reported as important and these traits should be selected for improvement of yield under waterlogged environment. These traits were also suggested to be important under waterlogged conditions by Kumar et al. (2017); Krishna and Kamat (2017); Belwal and Ahmad (2020a).\r\nPath coefficient analysis. The knowledge of correlation among traits determines the efficiency of selection in any breeding programme. The association analysis shows just the magnitude of association between the traits without revealing the underlying cause of the relationship. As many traits are included in the analysis, the path coefficient analysis divides the correlation values into direct and indirect effects and that enable a detailed interpretation of the particular cause in an attempt to develop a given correlation. The direct and indirect effects of traits analyzed at phenotypic and genotypic level under waterlogged conditions are presented in Tables 5 & 6. In this study, stalk diameter, single cane weight, number of internodes, dry biomass and leaf area are significantly associated with cane yield therefore their direct and indirect involvement at phenotypic and genotypic level is estimated by path coefficient analysis. \r\nPath coefficient analysis of yield related traits with cane yield and quality traits with commercial cane sugar (t/ha) (CCS) under waterlogging are presented in Table 5 and 6, respectively. The significance of path analysis can be better explored for the traits which have shown significant association with cane yield. The germination has shown significant correlation with cane yield (0.320) at genotypic level where high positive direct effect (1.181) of germination has been observed while average internode length (0.535) has highest positive indirect while number of millable canes NMC (-0.603) have negative indirect effect. The stalk diameter showed significant association with cane yield (0.281 and 0.365) at phenotypic and genotypic level, respectively. It has shown positive (0.321) direct effect at phenotypic level while negative direct effect was calculated at genotypic level (-0.3464) on cane yield. \r\n\r\nThe positive indirect effect of leaf area (1.996) and number of millable canes (1.373) has been recorded via stalk diameter on cane yield at genotypic level. Similarly, single cane weight have significant phenotypic (0.251) and genotypic (0.400) correlation with cane yield. Whereas the positive direct effect (0.034) of single cane weight at phenotypic level and negative at genotypic level (-0.294) has been observed. The stalk diameter (0.221) has indirect effect on single cane weight and cane yield at phenotypic level. At genotypic level stalk diameter have shown highest negative (-3.684) indirect effect whereas leaf area (1.891) and NMC (1.484) have shown positive indirect effect on SCW and cane yield. The significant correlation of number of internodes with cane yield at phenotypic (0.236) and genotypic (0.296) level has been observed. The number of internodes have positive direct effect (0.310) at phenotypic level and negative direct effect (-1.431) at genotypic level. The dry biomass has significant correlation with cane yield at phenotypic (0.224) and genotypic (0.361) level. The path analysis revealed positive phenotypic (0.106) and genotypic (1.161) direct effect of dry biomass on cane yield. The leaf area (1.283) and NMC (1.088) have shown positive indirect effect whereas stalk diameter (-2.765) has shown negative indirect effect on dry biomass with cane yield. Under waterlogging, all quality traits have shown significant association with commercial cane sugars (t/ha) at phenotypic and genotypic level except for extraction percentage at phenotypic level (0.086). The highest positive direct effect of brix (3.402) followed by purity (1.237) while highest negative direct effect of sucrose (-3.517) has been observed on CCS (t/ha). The highest positive indirect effect of brix (3.936) and negative indirect of sucrose (-4.47) have been observed for CCS (%) on CCS (t/ha). Contrary Viradiya et al. (2015) reported highest direct effect of CCS (t/ha) and sucrose percentage on cane yield while highest indirect effect was via single cane weight on cane yield. Similar results reported by Belwal and Ahmad (2020b); Somu et al. (2020); Kumar et al. (2016) where CCS (%), brix (%), purity (%), single cane weight, number of millable canes, extraction (%), stalk length and stalk diameter exhibited positive direct effect, while negative direct effect by germination (%) on cane yield under waterlogged conditions.\r\nThe residual (unexplained) variation in the path analysis was 0.73 and 0.53 under waterlogged environment on phenotypic and genotypic correlations, respectively among component traits of cane yield, while among quality traits it was 0.64 (phenotypic) and 0.67 (genotypic) under waterlogged environment examined for all the clones. This residual variation showed that among the clones, there was still unexplained and unrecognized variation that could not be revealed by above traits considered. Yet more component traits of cane yield and physiological and quality traits are required to disclose the same.\r\n','Gulzar S. Sanghera, Navdeep S. Jamwal, and Aishwarya Saini (2022). Genetic Variations and Selection Coefficients for Agronomic, Physiological and Quality Traits towards Sugarcane Improvement for Waterlogged conditions. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 14(2a): 286-293.'),(5150,'134','Perceived Constraints in the Cultivation of Cotton by the Growers in Nalgonda District of Telangana','Shwetha M.N.*, I. Shakuntala Devi, T. Lavanya, K. Suhasini and A. Meena','48 Perceived Constraints in the Cultivation of Cotton by the Growers in Nalgonda District of Telangana Shwetha M N.pdf','',1,'Cotton is the major commercial and fibre crop of India. It is considered as ‘White gold’ and ‘King of the fibre’. India is the largest producer (6.05 million metric tons) of cotton in the world with the area of 13.48 million hectares but India’s productivity (487 kg/ha) is found to be low compared to many cotton growing countries in the world. There are various reasons for this low productivity like vagaries of monsoon, non-adoption of recommended technologies, new technological dearth, heavy infestation of pests, etc. Therefore, the present study has been taken up to analyse the constraints from the farmers perspective. The study was conducted in Nalgonda district of Telangana state and the obtained data were analysed by using Garrett ranking technique. The study revealed that the major constraints perceived by the farmers among all listed constraints were scarcity of agricultural labour which increases cost of production (64.15), failure of crop due to unfavourable weather conditions (68.5), low price of farm produce at the time of harvesting (61.27), high rate of interest by the money lenders (64.08) and insufficient training programmes (68.00) under input, production, marketing, finance and technical constraints respectively.','Growers, Constraints, Mean score, Bt cotton, Telangana','On the basis of study, it can be concluded that the most serious constraints faced by the farmers were scarcity of agricultural labour which increases cost of production, failure of crop due to unfavourable weather conditions, incidence of insect pests and diseases, low price of farm produce at the time of harvesting, high rate of interest by the money lenders, and insufficient training programmes. Based on the result obtained in the study it would be recommended to encourage mechanization of cotton picking as manual harvesting is laborious task and it requires a greater number of labours which in turn increases the labour charges. Forecasting of weather and pests and diseases attack should reach the farmers at the right time. Suitable storage facilities need to be created at the nearby cities so that farmers can store the produce until they get fair price. Extension system need to be equipped to created awareness among the farmers about fair average quality norms and encourage the farmers to take up integrated pest and disease management. Training facilities should be extended to the larger section of the farmers specially covering the marginal and small farmers as they need it the most. ','INTRODUCTION\r\nCotton, one of the most important commercial and fibre crops of global significance. It contributes nearly 60 per cent of raw material needs of Indian textile mills and also plays a significant role in the sustainable livelihood of the Indian cotton farming community (Annual report, Ministry of textile, 2020-2021). India is the only country in the world that grows all four cultivated species of cotton along with their intra and inter specific hybrids (Chockalingam, 2016). Since the time immemorial, cotton has been used as a natural fabric in India. There were evidence showing that cotton has been cultivated in the Indus Valley for more than 5000 years ago. India is also known for its exceptional spinning and weaving skills (Ramesh et al., 2020).\r\nWorld cotton production in 2021-22 is estimated at 26.58 million tons, with the area of 32.91 million hectares. India ranks first in cotton production and area, with 6.05 million metric tons and 13.48 million hectares respectively. Which nearly accounts 26 per cent and 41 per cent of global cotton production and area respectively (cotcorp.gov.in). The major cotton producing states in India are Gujarat (90 lakh bales), Maharashtra (84 lakh bales), Telangana (51 lakh bales), Rajasthan (32 lakh bales), Haryana (22.5 lakh bales), Karnataka (22 lakh bales), Madhya Pradesh (18 lakh bales), Andhra Pradesh (17 lakh bales), Punjab (11 lakh bales) and Tamil Nadu (6 lakh bales) (indiastat.com). Besides these major states cotton cultivation can be seen in some of the non-traditional areas like Orissa, West Bengal, Bihar, Assam, Manipur and Tripura (Beeraladinni et al., 2016).\r\nSince independence government of India initiated many schemes, institutions and research programmes like all India coordinated cotton improvement scheme in 1967, central institute for cotton research in 1976 and intensive cotton development programme in 1979-80 to improve the production and productivity of the cotton in India (More et al., 2020). The introduction of technology mission on cotton in 2000 played an important role in improving productivity and quality of cotton. It was further boosted by introduction of Bt cotton in 2002 for commercial cultivation (Beeraladinni et al., 2016). With adoption of Bt cotton, there must be a change in package of practices of cotton as Bt cotton requires more crop management than the non Bt cotton and reduced pesticides application as it is resistance to bollworm attack (Yadav et al., 2018). Even though cotton growers have obtained the benefit of Bt cotton in terms of increased yield and reduced cost due to reduction in the pesticidal sprays. In the recent years farmers are reporting bollworm attack in Bt cotton also and continuing a greater number of pesticidal applications, along with this conventional problem, many other constraints are confronting the cotton growers. Therefore, the present study was conducted with an objective of identifying the major constraints from the farmers perspective.\r\nMATERIALS AND METHODS\r\nThe present study was conducted in the year 2021-22 with the objective to analyze the major constraints perceived by the cotton growers. The study was carried out in Nalgonda district of Telangana as it is largest producer of the cotton in the state. Multistage sampling technique was employed in the selection of district, mandals, villages and ultimately cotton farmers. Two mandals, one with highest production and another with lowest production were selected under the district. Two villages were also selected in the same manner under each mandal. Fifteen farmers were selected randomly from selected villages. Which totally constitutes a sample size of 60 farmers. Respondents were asked to rank the listed constraints related to the inputs, production, marketing, finance and technical aspects. Rank one meant most important and last rank meant least important constraint. \r\nThe study employed Garrett’s ranking method to find out the major constraints faced by the respondents during the production and marketing of cotton. The rank assigned to each constraint by each individual farmer was converted into percent position by using the following formula.\r\n \r\nWhere, Rij stands for rank given for the ith constraint (i= 1, 2……n) by the jth individual (j = 1, 2 .…. n) and Nj stands for number of constraints ranked by jth individual.\r\nWith the help of Garrett’s table, given by Garett and Woodworth the estimated percent positions were converted into scores. The mean values of scores were estimated. The constraint having highest mean value is considered to be the most pressing problem for cotton growers (Hosmath et al., 2012).\r\nRESULT AND DISCUSSION\r\nThe constraints were studied under five categories like input related, production related, marketing related, finance related and technical aspect constraints. The results were discussed below under the following headings.\r\nInput related constraints: The results presented in the Table 1 highlight that the scarcity of agricultural labour which increases cost of production found to be the first major problem with the mean score of 64.15 as the cotton crop is labour intensive, dearth of the labour during peak time of harvesting was a major constraint. Non-availability of quality seeds and other inputs at village level was ranked as second major constraint with the mean score of 52.15. Third and fourth ranks were given to constraints, high cost of seeds, fertilizers and pesticides and more number of spraying and risk involved in it with the mean score of 49.88 and 33.87 respectively. The above results were in conformity with the results obtained by Goud et al. (2020) reported high cost of chemical inputs and labour scarcity and high labour charges as the major problems during the cultivation of cotton.\r\nProduction related constraints: Majorly five constraints related to the production aspects were asked to rank by the farmers. Data in the Table 2 revealed that the two major production related constraints which were hindering the cotton cultivation were failure of crop due to unfavourable weather conditions and incidence of insect pests and diseases ranked as 1st and 2nd major constraints with the mean score of 68.50 and 66.50 respectively. Farmers reported that due to the vagaries of monsoon and pink bollworm attack, there were considerable yield reduction. The constraint, unsuitable soil was ranked as the 3rd major constraint as majority of the respondents were growing cotton in the red soil which is not suitable for cotton cultivation as that of black soil. Remaining constraints like inadequate irrigation facilities and drainage problem in the soil were ranked 4th and 5th constraints respectively. Yadav et al. (2018); Hosmath et al. (2012) also obtained similar results and revealed that failure of crop due to unfavourable weather conditions and inadequate knowledge regarding the pest managements as the major constraints during the production of cotton. Sam et al. (2020) also confirmed that uneven rainfall is one the major constraints in the cultivation of cotton.Marketing related constraints: Table 3 depicted various constraints perceived by the farmers at the time of marketing the produce. Among all the constraints, low price of farm produce at the time of harvesting was the first major problem with the means score of 61.27 followed by the lack of awareness about fair average quality (57.28) and lack of marketing information (55.57). Other constraints like lack of marketing infrastructures (51.20), loss of weight during storage (45.37) and delay in payment by the marketing agencies (29.48) found places in descending order. The results were on par with results obtained by Rani and Selvaraj (2015) reported lack of remunerative price for the produce and absence of suitable price policy as the major problems faced by the cotton growers. \r\nFinance related constraints: The results related to the financial constraints faced by the farmers are reproduced in the Table 4. It can be noticed that high rate of interest by the money lenders was ranked as top most constraint with the mean score of 64.08 followed by the cumbersome procedure for taking the loan with the mean score of 61.60. Lack of knowledge about loan processing system of bank was ranked as third major problem with the mean score of 51.18. Non availability of timely credit (41.38) and inaccessibility of financial institutions (31.10) were perceived as lower order constraints. The above results were in collaboration with results of Rai and Singh (2010); Yadav et al. (2018) reported high rate of interest charged by the money lenders and lack of knowledge about loan processing system of the bank were the major financial constraints.\r\nTechnical Constraints: It is evident from the Table 5 among the listed technical constraints insufficient training programme was found in first place with the mean score of 68.00 as the majority of the training programmes were selective in nature and restricted to few farmers. Lack of proper knowledge about the package of practices and lack of knowledge about improved scientific practices were found in 2nd and 3rd positions with the mean score of 62.17 and 47.37 respectively. Constraints like inaccessibility to the concerned institutions (KVK, University) and no extension contacts were found places in descending order. Bondarwad et al. (2010) reported lack of sufficient knowledge about Bt cotton production technology as the constraint faced by the farmers while adopting Bt cotton.\r\n','Shwetha M.N., I. Shakuntala Devi, T. Lavanya, K. Suhasini and A. Meena (2022). Perceived Constraints in the Cultivation of Cotton by the Growers in Nalgonda District of Telangana. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 14(2a): 294-297.'),(5151,'134','Teat-end Bacterial Load in Buffaloes with Subclinical Mastitis and its Amelioration using Indigenously Prepared Teat Dip','Dinesh Kumar Yadav, Jitendra Pratap Singh, Satyavrat Singh, Vibha Yadav, Rakesh Kumar Gupta*, Namita Joshi, Debasish Niyogi and R.K. Joshi','49 Teat-end Bacterial Load in Buffaloes with Subclinical Mastitis and its Amelioration using Indigenously Prepared Teat Dip Rakesh Kumar Gupta.pdf','',1,'Mastitis is a worldwide problem of dairy industry that has been the cause of concern from decades with no concrete preventive tool yet. Teat dips have been recommended but still not much in practice by our rural folk. This study determines the efficacy of some essential oils as an alternate to commercially available teat dips in reducing the teat end bacterial count and to optimize the time for post milking teat dips to reduce pathogen loads on teat skin. The percentage reduction of mastitis pathogens on teat skin with 3 teat dips: plain water, commercial antiseptic solution and mixture of cinnamon oil and tea tree oil at 30 second and 15 minute after post dipping was evaluated. The teat- end bacterial load (log10 TBC value) after washing of udder with water as pre-milking teat disinfectant was 7.814 log10 cfu/ml. Use of dettol as teat disinfectant reduces teat- end bacterial load (log10 TBC) to 6.59 log10 cfu/ml after 30 sec. of application of dettol disinfectant, but after 15 minute it again increased tolog10 TBC value 7.309 log10 cfu/ml. Teat dipping with the mixture of Cinnamon and Tea- tree oil reduced the teat- end bacterial load to log10 TBC value 6.759 log10 cfu/ml within 30 second and 6.944 log10 cfu/ml at 15 min. interval. It can be concluded that different mastitis pathogens may possess different sensitivities to teat dips, and essential oils of Cinnamon and tea tree oil can be effectively used as post milking teat dip. Furthermore, a 15 minute post-milking dip contact time for oil and 30 s for dettol dips may be optimal in reducing pathogen load. ','Mastitis, Teat disinfectant, Buffaloes, Cinnamon oil, Tea tree oil','Teat dip was effective in reducing the bacterial load at teat end inhibiting the invasion and inflammation and thus can be of immense use in the prevention of sub-clinical mastitis in dairy animals as well as against the control of pathogens which poses serious health hazards in human beings. Hence, farmer should be encouraged to adopt teat dip to reduces losses due sub-clinical mastitis and avoid health issues in human beings due to consumption of contaminated milk.','INTRODUCTION\r\nBovine mastitis, an inflammation of mammary gland, is one of the most devastating disease caused by variety of pathogens, such as Staphylococcus aureus (S. aureus), Escherichia coli, and Streptococcus agalactiae, S. dysgalactiae, S. uberis (Thompson et al., 2014) and results in decreased milk quality and economic losses (Nickersonand Oliver 2014). The disease can be prevented by reducing the bacterial load on the teat surface which reduces the chances of mastitis. This can be effectively achieved by use of teat disinfection. Teat disinfection Pre- and post-milking is important to reduce the number of bacterial load on surface (Dufour et al., 2011), reduce the possibility of mastitis and also the risk of bacterial contamination of milk (Suriyasathaporn and Chupia 2011; Zucali et al., 2011). Alternative plant or herbal solutions that have been studied and are useful for teat dipping consist of Morinda citrifolia extract (Purwantiningsih et al., 2017), star fruit leaf extract, or Averrhoa bilimbi Linn. (Julianto et al., 2017), essential oils from M. alternifolia (Dore et al., 2019) and leaf extracts of babadotan or Ageratum conyzoides (Mahpudin et al., 2017). Study on the leaves of the cherry leaf (Muntingia calabura L.) as a teat dipping has been done by Kurniawan et al. (2013).\r\nTreatment of bovine mastitis with alternative essential oils and plant-derived antimicrobials has been assessed in vitro on major bacterial and fungal mastitis pathogens (Dal Pozzo et al., 2011 and Ksouri et al., 2017). Essential oils are safe and, unlike antibiotics, no resistance has been reported after a prolonged exposure to bacteria (Dal Pozzo et al., 2011). Furthermore, synergism between plant metabolites and antibiotics has been described by (Hemaiswarya et al., 2008), which suggests the use of essential oils as adjuvant. Cinnamon (Cinnamomum zeylanicum) is one of the most influential antimicrobial medicinal plant belonging to Lauraceae family (Prabuseenivasan et al., 2006). Cinnamon essential oil (CEO) has antimicrobial, antioxidant and anti-carcinogenic activities (Yuce et al., 2012, Zouheyr et al., 2014; Raeisi et al., 2015).\r\nTea tree oil (TTO), an essential oil extracted from the leaves of Melaleuca alternifolia (M. alternifolia), also possesses antibacterial activity and anti-inflammatory properties (Low et al., 2013). These studies determine the efficacy of essential oils as an alternate to commercially available teat dips in reducing the teat end bacterial count and to optimize the time for post milking teat dips to reduce pathogen loads on teat skin. \r\nMATERIALS AND METHODS\r\nTeat-end swabs collection and analysis of bacterial count. The study was conducted on 30 buffaloes divided in 3 groups of 10 animals each. In I Group Washing of udder with water, udder was dipped in essential oils (Cinnamom and Tea tree oil) in IInd group whereas III Group were washed with dettol. Teat-end swabs from buffaloes were collected individually from both hind quarters by rotating a moistened cotton swab, covering an area of 2 cm² outside the teat orifice. The first swab was taken immediately after udder washing with water (Group I)whereas in II and III Group swab were collected from quarter after applying with teat dip solution(mixture of Cinnamon and Tea tree oil) or (dettol) and removing the surplus teat dip solution. Teats were dipped in a cup of dipping solution and allowed to remain in contact for 30sec.to teat skin. First swab was collected after 30sec. applying teat-dip second after 15min. and subsequently dried using a dry and sterile towel to remove the surplus teat dip solution. \r\nThe teat-end swabs were placed in sterile test tube containing 0.1% peptone water and stored in ice container until analyzed. All teat-end swabs were analyzed for bacterial counts, i.e. total bacterial count (TBC), staphylococcal count (STA), streptococcal count (STR) and coli form count (COL) by Standard plate count by Pour plate method as per AOAC (Association of Official Analytical Chemists, 1990).\r\nStatistical analysis: Statistical analysis of data was done by using SPSS 20 software.\r\nRESULTS AND DISCUSSION \r\nThe teat end total bacterial count (log10TBC) after washing of udder with water was 7.814 log10 cfu/ml. After 30 sec. (W1) the teat end bacterial count (log10TBC) decreased to of 6.939log10 cfu/ml but increased to 7.422 log10 cfu/ml after 15 min (W2). In oil dipped group the teat end bacterial count (log10TBC) decreased to 6.759log10 cfu/ml at 30 sec (O1) but increased to 6.944 log10 cfu/ml after 15 min (O2). In the standard antiseptic treatment group, the bacterial load at 30 second (D1) & 15 min(D2) was 6.591 log10 cfu/ml and 7.309 log10 cfu/ml respectively.\r\nIn control group, the log10 E. coli count was 7.386log10 cfu/ml. After 30 sec. (W1) the log10 E. coli count was 6.326log10 cfu/ml but increased to 7.535 log10 cfu/ml after 15 min (W2). In oil dipped group the count decreased to 6.328 log10 cfu/ml at 30 sec (O1) but increased to log10 6.591 log10 cfu/ml after 15 min(O2).The standard antiseptic treatment group E. coli count at 30 sec (D1) and 15 min(D2) was 6.3404 log10 cfu/ml and 7.240log10 cfu/ml respectively.\r\nIn control group the Log10 S. aureus count was 7.209 log10 cfu/ml. After 30 sec.(W1) the log10 S. aureus count decreased to 6.39 log10 cfu/ml but increased to log10 S. aureus 7.38 log10 cfu/ml after 15 min (W2). In oil dipped group the count decreased to S. aureus 5.9 log10 cfu/ml at 30 sec (O1) but increased to log10 S. aureus 6.0 log10 cfu/ml after 15 min(O2). The standard antiseptic treatment group S. aureus count at 30 sec. (D1) &15min (D2) was log10 S. aureus 5.87 log10 cfu/ml and 5.79log10 cfu/ml respectively.\r\nIn control group the Log10 Streptococcal count was 5.477 log10 cfu/ml. After 30sec. (W1) the log10 Streptococcal count was 6.42 log10 cfu/ml but increased to log10 Streptococcal count 7.260 log10 cfu/ml after 15 min (W2). In oil dipped group the count decreased to log10 Streptococcal 6.42log10 cfu/ml at 30 sec (O1) and increased to log10 Streptococcal 6.514 log10 cfu/ml after 15min(O2). The standard antiseptic treatment group Streptococcal count at 30 sec. (D1) &15min (D2) was log10 Streptococcal 7.049 log10 cfu/ml and 6.839 log10 cfu/ml respectively (Table 1).\r\nData reveals that at 30sec the decrease was maximum in D1 followed by O1 & W1, suggesting the maximum efficacy of dettol as teat dip for transient period. At 15minute interval oil dipped group exhibited least total bacterial count log10 TBC of 6.759 that was significantly lower than all other treated groups at 15 min post dip, justifying the prolonged effect of essential oils as teat dips the potential that can be exploited to effectively prevent mastitis.\r\nThe main compounds of cinnamon bark and leaf essential oils (E-cinnamaldehyde and eugenol, respectively) are responsible of diverse biological activities such as peripheral vasodilator, antitumor, antifungal, sedative, germicide, antioxidant and anti-mutagenic properties (Raoand Gan, 2014; Jayaprakasha and Rao, 2011).\r\nStudies by different researchers suggest the use of essential oils as teat dips in reducing the load of pathogenic bacteria causing subclinical mastitis (Pisestyani et al. 2017; Piotr et al., 2018; Pozzo et al., 2012). Dore et al. (2019) reported that the use of essential oil from M. alternifolia (Tea tree). The antibacterial activity and anti-inflammatory properties of tea tree oil has also been reported by Low et al., 2013. Dore et al. (2019) reported that Terpinen-4-ol (T-4-ol), component of the Melaleuca alternifolia essential oil, shows antibacterial properties without inducing resistance. Tea tree oil has also been utilized for formulating a phyto-derivative solution for intra-mammary mastitis treatment. T-4-ol used as active principle of post-dipping alternative to chemical products routinely applied for prevention of subclinical mastitis, contributing to both milk quality and to animal welfare.\r\n','Dinesh Kumar Yadav, Jitendra Pratap Singh, Satyavrat Singh, Vibha Yadav, Rakesh Kumar Gupta, Namita Joshi, Debasish Niyogi and R.K. Joshi (2022). Teat-end Bacterial Load in Buffaloes with Subclinical Mastitis and its Amelioration using Indigenously Prepared Teat Dip. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 14(2a): 298-301.'),(5152,'134','Analyzing the Yield and Attributional Features of the F1 Hybrids Produced by the Parental Lines and their Tomato-producing Parents (Solanum lycopersicon L.)','Navneet Singh*, C.N. Ram, Vikash Singh and G.C. Yadav','50 Analyzing the Yield and Attributional Features of the F1 Hybrids Produced by the Parental Lines and their Tomato-producing Parents _Solanum lycopersicon L._ Navneet Singh.pdf','',1,'The current study set out to collect information about the genetic development of tomatoes based on the individual traits of the parents and their combinations. A line × testers mating strategy, consisting of eleven lines and three testers, produced 33 hybrids. At the Main Experimental Station (MES), Department of Vegetable Science, Acharya Narendra Deva University of Agriculture and Technology, Narendra Nagar, Kumarganj, Ayodhya (U.P.) India, the genotypers were assessed in Randomized Complete Block Design (RBD) with three replications for eighteen yield and yield attributing traits during Rabi 2020-21 (Y1) and 2021-22 (Y2). The study evident that highly significant differences were observed for most of the traits under study. Based on per se performance, parent L11 (1.84 Kg) exhibited highest fruit yield per plant followed by T3 (1.84 Kg). The per se performance of crosses i.e. L9×T2 (2.88 Kg) followed by L11×T1 (2.87 Kg), L4×T1 (2.86 Kg) and L11×T2 (2.74 Kg) were produced significantly higher fruit yield per plant than the general mean. These hybrids may be exploited as new variety after selection and subjected to multi-locational trials for their release as cultivation on commercial scale.','Evident, reciprocals, yield, hybrids','Based on the results of the current study, it can be deduced that the top five hybrids for fruit yield per plant were L4×T1, L9×T2, L11×T1), L1×T1, L11×XT2., with mean values of (2.90, 2.88, 2.87, 2.81, and 2.74, respectively). In order to develop favourable traits, these should be used in future breeding programme.','INRODUCTION\r\nThe tomato belongs to the Solanaceae family and the genus Solanum, with chromosome number 2n=2x=24. With a weak woody stem that frequently scrambles over other plants, it is planted as an annual herbaceous plant that can reach heights of up to 1-3 metres. It is a crop plant that reproduces sexually and has a tap root, perfect or complete blooms, and hypogynous flower. It is a day-neutral plant that forms compound inflorescences with four to eight blooms in each cluster. The stigma is surrounded by a thin protective anther cone that promotes self-pollination. Solanum lycopersicum was the name Linnaeus gave to the tomato when he classified it in the genus Solanum in 1753. It was given the name Lycopersicon esculentum by Philip Miller in 1768, who also assigned it to its own genus.\r\nWestern Southern America is the native home of all tomato species (Rick, 1976). The ancestor of the tomato was probably the wild cherry tomato, also known as Lycopersicon esculentum var. cerasiforme. Tomato varieties that are indeterminate and determinate are frequently recognised. Determinate or bush varieties grow to their highest point and harvest their entire yield at once. Because of their greater adaptability and versatility, indeterminate types of tomatoes develop into vines that never reach their maximum height and continue to produce flowers and fruits. They are grown both outdoors and indoors all over the world, ranking second in importance only to potatoes in many nations, including India. India had a total area of 0.789 million hectares and produced 19.759 million tonnes at a productivity of 25.042 tonnes per hectare (Anonymous, 2018). \r\nThe top tomato-growing states in India include Karnataka, West Bengal, Maharashtra, Uttar Pradesh, Haryana, Punjab, Gujarat, and Bihar. The tomato is regarded as \"Poor man\'s Orange\" and is always used as \"Protective Food.\" Fruits from tomatoes are consumed either raw or cooked. Large amounts of tomato are used to make a variety of processed foods such soup, juice, ketchup, puree, paste, and powder. Tomato soup is a tasty starter and is said to be a helpful treatment for persons with constipation. In addition to providing vitamin C, it gives meals a range of colours and flavours. Ripe tomatoes are used as a fresh salad vegetable whereas green tomatoes are utilised in pickles and preserves.\r\nTomatoes are renowned for their exceptional nutritional content, which is stated as follows: each 100g of tomato fruit that can be eaten has 93.10g of moisture, 3.60g of carbohydrates, 1.90g of protein, 0.10g of fat, 0.60g of minerals, 0.70g of fibres, 320 I.U. of vitamin \"A,\" and 31mg of vitamin \"C\" (Ascorbic acid). Additionally beneficial as a medicine, tomatoes. Both the pulp and the juice, which both promote gastric output and cleanse the blood, are quickly metabolised. Oral cancer, sour mouth, and other diseases, it is said, can be avoided with this. One of the healthiest veggies for keeping our colon and stomach healthy is this one. Vegetable supplies are insufficient compared to the population\'s daily needs given the population\'s on-going growth. Though many genetic studies on tomatoes have been conducted, leading to the development of numerous tomato varieties and hybrids. Phenotypically superior lines may produce subpar recombinants in the segregating generations, so choosing ideal parents for hybridization only on the basis of phenotypic performance is not a sound procedure. The choice of parents must consequently be made based on their genetic potential.\r\nMATERIALS AND METHODS\r\nThe present investigation was carried out at Main Experimental Station, Department of Vegetable Science, Acharya Narendra Deva University of Agriculture and Technology, Narendra Nagar (Kumarganj), Ayodhya (U.P.), India, during Rabi, 2020-21 (Y1) and 2021–22 (Y2). The experimental farm falls under humid subtropical climate and is located between 24.47° and 26.54°N latitude and 81.84° and 83.58°E longitude at an altitude of 98 m above mean sea level.\r\nThe experimental materials comprised of ten promising varieties of tomato selected on the basis of genetic variability from the germplasm stock maintained in the Department of Vegetable Science. The selected parental lines i.e NDT-Sel-1, NDT-Sel-2, NDT-Sel-3, Narendra Tomato-4, NDT-Sel-5, NDT-Sel-6, Narendra Tomato-7, NDT-Sel-8, NDT-Sel-9, NDT-Sel-10 and T6 were crossed Arka vikash, Kashi chayan and Kashi aman in all possible cross combinations during Rabi season of 2019-20 to get 33 F1’s for the study of mean performance of parental line and their resultant F1.\r\nThe experiments were grown in a Randomized Complete Block Design (RBD) with three replications to evaluate the performance of 33 F1 hybrids and their 14 parental lines (11 line × 3 testers) of Tomato. The crop was sown in single row spaced at 60 cm apart with a plant to plant spacing of 50 cm. \r\nA total of 18 economic and quality variables were observed, including days to 50% flowering, days to first fruit harvest, plant height (cm), number of primary branches per plant, number of fruits per cluster, number of fruits per plant, average fruit weight (g), pericarp thickness (mm), number of locules per fruit, polar diameter of fruit (cm), equitorial diameter of fruit (cm), tss (°Brix), titrable acidity (%), and as (mg/100g fresh fruit). A method provided by Panse and Sukhatme was used to evaluate the per se performance of parents and hybrids. for eighteen yield and yield-contributing traits experimental variance analysis.\r\nRESULTS AND DISCUSSION\r\nSelection of suitable parents and proper breeding methodology are basic steps for the improvement of yield and attributing traits. The selection of parents having high per se performance would be of merit in producing better hybrids and hence the parents selected for crossing programme were evaluated based on their per se performances. The most important trait fruit yield per plant and other quality traits result for pooled data are discussed below.\r\nPerusal of Table 1 Pooled data revealed that the mean squares due to parent, line and crosses were found highly significant for all the traits. Tester showed highly significant for all character except days to 50% flowering, days to first fruit harvest, length of fruit and fruit diameter. The mean squares due to parents vs. hybrids also found significant for all the traits studied except for days to first fruit harvest, plant height, pericarp thickness, number of fruit per cluster, total sugar.\r\nPerusal of (Table 2) in pooled, the results revealed significant variation among parents for the characters. Days to 50% flowering was ranged from 34.33 (T3) and 38.00 days (NDT-Sel-1). Among hybrids, it ranged from 31.33 cm (L8×T3) to 38.67 cm (L1×T2) with an average of 32.38 cm. Among 33 hybrids, 14 hybrids showed significant superior mean performance than the standard check Kashi aman for days to 50% flowering and days to first fruit harvest among parent (59.00) days L8 to (66.33) T2 and 71.00 days (L7×T1) to (86.00) days L6×T3 in hybrid and average 63.29 days. Among 33 hybrids, 24 hybrids significantly superior for days to frist fruit harvest when compared to best check kashi aman (63.83). Longer harvesting period was desirable for getting higher yields. The results are in accordance with the results of Ravindra Kumar et al., (2012) and Shankar et al. (2014). \r\nPlant height among parents ranged from (76.96) cm in L10 and (106.63) cm in L4. The average for hybrids was 89.05 cm, while the range for L6×T1 to L5×T3 hybrids was 80.75 cm to 98.92 cm. Maximum plant heights were measured for three hybrids: L5×T3 (98.92), L4×T3 (98.82), and L4×T2 (98.28). Results are confirmed with earlier reports Sujeet Kumar and Ramanjini Gowda (2016). The numbers of primary branches per plant parents ranged from (3.40) in L10 to (6.16) in T2. Among the crosses, it ranged from (3.61) in L7 × T1 to (5.76) in L6 × T3 with an average of 4.41. Among 33 hybrids, 15 hybrids showed significant superior mean performance than the standard check Kashi aman for number of branches per plant. The present result getting support from the findings of Shankar et al., (2014) and Sujeetkumar and Ramanjinigowda (2016). Pericarp thickness of fruit it ranged from (0.29) cm L2 to (0.68) cm L6 in parent, among the hybrid (0.37) cm L2×T3 to (0.59) cm L7×T2 with an average of 0.49. Among 33 hybrids, 27 hybrids showed significant superior mean performance than the standard check Kashi aman for pericarp thickness. The number of fruit per clusters ranged from (3.50) in L9 to 4.88 L1. Among hybrids, this character was ranged from (3.12) in L9 × T3 to (4.53) in L7 × T3 with an average of 4.03 hybrids showed significant superior mean performance than the standard check Kashi aman for fruit per clusters. Results for number of fruit per clusters are in agreement with result of Vilas et al., (2015) Number of fruits per plant was ranged from (14.85) in L3 to (36.73) in T2 with an average of 21.76 among parents. \r\nIn hybrids, the number of fruits per plant was ranged from 23.38 in (L3×T3) to 37.65 in (L11×T1) with an average of 28.42. Among 33 hybrids, 9 hybrids were showed significantly more number of fruits per plant in comparison with best check Kashi aman. These results are in agreement with the previous findings of Vilas et al., (2015); Sujeet Kumar and Ramanjini Gowda (2016). Higher mean value for number of fruits per plant was recorded in (37.65) in L11×T1, (34.53) in L11×T2 and (33.62) in L11×T3. Five hybrids, L1×T1 (95.96g), L1×T1 (95.13g), L9×T2, (91.51g) L9×T3, (89.57g) and (89.23g) L2×T2 recorded higher fruit weight compared to best check kasha aman (75.63g). Gul et al. (2010); Ravindra Kumar et al. (2012); Sujeet and Ramanjini Gowda (2016) are also reported the similar results. Polar diameter of fruit was ranged from (5.35 cm) in T3 to (6.46 cm) L7 in parent and (6.58 cm) L4×T3 to (4.90 cm) L3×T3 in hybrid, with an average of 5.71 cm. Twenty three hybrids were significant and superior with respect to polar diameter (cm) compared to best check kashi aman (5.35 cm). Equitorial diameter of fruit was ranged from (3.46 cm) L6×T2 to (5.44 cm) L2×T2 in hybrid and (4.15 cm) L6 to (5.45 cm) L2 in parent, with an average of 4.54 cm. Twenty five hybrids were significant and superior with respect to equitorial diameter (cm) compared to best check kashi aman (5.35 cm). The results are in close conformity with the findings of Gul et al. (2010); Sunil et al. (2013). The total fruit yield per plant was high in (3.15 kg) in T2. Among hybrids, this character was ranged from (1.72 kg) in L10×T1 and (2.90 kg) L4×T1 with an average mean 2.06 kg. Five hybrids are high yield found (2.90 kg) in L4×T1, (2.88 kg) L9×T2, (2.87 kg) in L11×T1, (2.81 kg) in L1×T1, (2.74 kg) in L11×T2. The present findings are in accordance with the results of Basavaraj et al. (2016); Sujeetkumar and Ramanjini Gowda (2016). Marketable fruit yield per plant ranged from parent (0.84 kg) in L3 and (1.43) in T2. Among hybrids, this character was ranged from (0.92 kg) in L3×T1 to (1.66 kg) in L10×T2 with an average mean 1.12 kg. Best hybrids L10×T2 (1.66 kg), L10×T1 (1.55 kg), L10×T3 (1.30 kg), L11×XT3 (1.25) were recorded high marketable fruit yield per plant compared to best check kasha aman (1.04). TSS ranged from parent (5.22) in L11 to (6.70) in L3, with a mean 5.42. Among 33 hybrids, 19 hybrids showed significantly superior TSS (°Brix) compared to best check kashi aman (5.42). Present findings are in accordance with the reports of Shankar et al. (2014); Basavaraj et al. (2016). Titrable acidity ranged from (0.36) in T3 to( 0.55) in L7 with a mean 0.45 and hybrids ranged from (0.35) L10×T1 to (0.57) L7×T2 and mean 0.43.All hybrids showed significant for all character except cross L10×T1 is non-significant compare to the check variety . Ascorbic acid (mg/100g) content is nutritionally an important constituent. Among the parent ranged from (17.23) in T3 and (22.50) L9 genotypes are generally richer in ascorbic acid content. Among hybrids, it ranged from (16.62) L1×T1 in (21.8) L9×T2 with an average of 19.07. Twenty nine best hybrids viz., were showed significant and superior values for ascorbic acid content compared best check Kashi aman the results are in agreement the results of Shankar et al. (2014); Basavaraj et al. (2016). Total sugar ranged from (3.28) in L3 to (3.94) in T2 with a mean (3.59) and hybrids ranged from (3.38) L9xT2 to (3.83) L4×T2 and mean 3.60. All hybrids showed significant for all character except cross L7×T2, L9×T2, L9×T3, L10×T3 is non-significant compare to the check variety. Among parents lycopene (mg/100g) ranged from (2.50) in L8 and (3.7) in T2. Among hybrids, it ranged from (2.39) L4×T3 in to (3.61) in L4×T2 with an average of 2.93. Thirteen best hybrids viz., were showed significant and superior values for lycopene compared best check Kashia aman (3.13). The present results are getting support from the findings of Shankar et al. (2014); Basavaraj et al. (2016).\r\n','Navneet Singh, C.N. Ram, Vikash Singh and G.C. Yadav (2022). Analyzing the Yield and Attributional Features of the F1 Hybrids Produced by the Parental Lines and their Tomato-producing Parents (Solanum lycopersicon L.). Biological Forum – An International Journal, 14(2a): 302-310.'),(5153,'134','Irrigation Regimes and Split Application of N and K on Crop Growth Rate, Relative Growth Rate and Net Assimilation rate of Bt and Non- Bt Cotton Genotypes','R. Ariraman*, ChelviRamessh, A. Gurusamy, P. Saravana Pandian and T. Sivakumar','51 Irrigation Regimes and Split Application of N and K on Crop Growth Rate, Relative Growth Rate and Net Assimilation rate of Bt and Non- Bt Cotton Genotypes R. Ariraman.pdf','',1,'A field experiment was carried out to assess the effect of different irrigation regimes and split application of nitrogen and potassium on crop growth rate, relative growth rate and net assimilation rate of Bt and Non- Bt cotton genotypes at Agricultural College and Research Institute, Madurai. The experiment was laid out in split plot design and replicated thrice with treatment combinations of 16 viz., with two different irrigation regimes based on IW/CPE ratio (0.8 and 0.4) and two genotypes (RCH 659 hybrid and its conventional RCH 659 BG II). The sub plot consists of N and K split application upto 90 days in various proportions viz.,N1 - 50 % N and K as basal + 25% N and K at 45 DAS + 25% N and K at 60 DAS, N2 - 25% N and K as basal+ 25% N and K at 45 DAS + 25% N and K at 60 DAS + 25% N and K at 75 DAS, N3 - 50 % N and K as basal + 12.5% N and K at 45 DAS + 12.5% N and K at 60 DAS+ 12.5% N and K at 75DAS + 12.5% N and K at 90 DAS, N4 - 0 % N and 50% K in basal + 25% N and 50% K at 45 DAS + 25% N at 60 DAS + 25% N at 75DAS + 25% N at 90 DAS. The experimental results revealed that CGR, RGR and NAR were higher with the treatment combination of scheduling of irrigation at 0.8 IW/CPE ratio with RCH 659 BG II compared to other levels and non – Btgenotypes. Four splits of nitrogen application upto 90 days skipping basal registered maximum values of CGR, RGR and NAR during 90-120 days which coincide with boll development and maturity stages. Among the interactions, irrigation at 0.8 IW/CPE ratio along with four splits of N skipping basal and two splits of K during basal and 45 DAS recorded significantly higher values.','Irrigation, split application, nitrogen, potassium, cotton, growth analysis','The crop growth rate, relative growth rate and net assimilation rate were higher when Bt RCH 659 BG II was irrigated at 0.8 IW/CPE ratio along with application of 50% K as basal + 25% N and 50% K at 45 DAS + 25% N at 60 DAS + 25% N at 75DAS + 25% N at 90 DAS skipping basal N application of nitrogen in cotton.','INTRODUCTION\r\nCotton, king of fiber or white gold is an important commercial fiber crop which contributes 75 per cent of raw material for textile industry. India is one among the major cotton producers of world having the largest area (11.7 m.ha) under cotton (Roopashree et al., 2020). Cultivation of Bt cotton (Bacillus thuringiensis) is becoming popular within two decades and nearly 95 per cent of total cultivable area under cotton is converted to Bt cotton. Bt cotton has got remarkable momentum among farmers due to its better growth, production and productivity over non- Bt counterpart. Optimum irrigation scheduling along with split application of chemical fertilizers has positive role I influencing the CGR, RGR and NAR of cotton at different stages. Water stress affects the vegetative growth as well as the main metabolic activities such as photosynthetic activity, net assimilation as a result of reduced leaf area and dry matter production ultimately declining yield (Fahad et al., 2017). Nitrogen plays a prominent role in governing the growth processes due to its integral part of chlorophyll molecule, as well as constituent of enzymes, protein synthesis and production of nucleicacids (Marschner, 1986). The N demand of cotton is high for the entire growth period and is well documented in earlier research findings. N supplement at proper time and quantity determines the growth of cotton, hence, split application at critical periods is ideal for enhancing higher assimilation of photosynthates owing to enhanced crop growth rate and leaf area as reported by Hallikeri et al. (2010). Potassium being one among the essential macronutrients is involved in various physiological as well as biochemical processes in plants affecting the growth of plants and its development. It governs osmotic adjustment, regulation of stomata, activation of enzymes, charge balance maintenance in the membranes of cell and resistance to abiotic as well as biotic stress in plants. Application of nitrogen and potassium as split doses during different growth stages of crop was found to increase the CGR, RGR and NAR leading to higher dry matter production as a result of increased production of photosynthetic assimilates during boll formation, development and maturity stages. The objective of the present investigation was to analyze the effect of different moisture regimes and split application of nitrogen and potassium on crop growth rate, relative growth rate and net assimilation rate of Bt and non-Bt genotypes. \r\nMATERIALS AND METHODS\r\nA field experiment was conducted at the Central Farm of Agricultural College and Research Institute, Madurai during summer 2021 for assessing the effect of irrigation regimes and split application of N and K on Crop Growth Rate (CGR), Relative Growth Rate (RGR) and Net Assimilation Rate (NAR) of cotton. The experiment was laid out in split plot design and replicated thrice. The main plot comprised of two different irrigation regimes based on IW/CPE ratio (0.8 and 0.4) and two genotypes (RCH 659 hybrid and its conventional RCH 659 BG II). The sub plot consisted of N and K split application upto 90 days in various proportions viz.,N1 - 50 % N and K as basal + 25% N and K at 45 DAS + 25% N and K at 60 DAS, N2 - 25% N and K as basal+ 25% N and K at 45 DAS + 25% N and K at 60 DAS + 25% N and K at 75 DAS, N3 - 50 % N and K as basal + 12.5% N and K at 45 DAS + 12.5% N and K at 60 DAS+ 12.5% N and K at 75DAS + 12.5% N and K at 90 DAS, N4 - 0 % N and 50% K in basal + 25% N and 50% K at 45 DAS + 25% N at 60 DAS + 25% N at 75DAS + 25% N at 90 DAS. The crop was sown with 90 × 60 cm spacing during second week of February, 2021. The recommended dose of N and K were applied as per treatment schedule viz., 120: 60: 60 kg NPK ha-1, whereas, the entire dose of phosphorus was applied basally. The CGR, RGR and NAR were calculated using the formula as given below;\r\nCrop growth rate (CGR) (gm-2 day-1) Watson (1947). \r\n \r\nWhere, W1 and W2 -Plant whole dry weight at times t1 and t2\r\nt1 and t2 – Time interval in days\r\nP -land area occupied by the plant \r\n Relative growth rate (RGR) (mg g-1 day-1) Williams (1946)\r\n \r\nWhere, \r\nW1 and W2– Plant whole dry weight at times t1 and t2\r\nt1 and t2 – Time interval in days\r\nNet assimilation rate (NAR) (mg cm2 day-1) Williams (1946)\r\n \r\nWhere, \r\nL1 and W1- Leaf area and whole plant dry weight at t1, \r\n L2 and W2 are leaf area and whole plant dry weight at t2 \r\nt1 and t2 – Time interval in days\r\nRESULTS AND DISCUSSION\r\nCrop Growth Rate (g m-1 day-1) of cotton. Irrigation scheduling based on 0.8 IW/CPE ratio with Bt cotton RCH 659 BG II recorded maximum values of CGR (1.98, 5.77 and 4.89 g m-1 day-1), while, the minimum values were recorded with non-Bt cotton genotype irrigated at 0.4 IW/CPE ratio (1.36, 3.19 and 3.82g m-1 day-1) at 30-60, 60-90 and 90-120 days after sowing respectively. The significant increase in CGR at 0.8 IW/CPE ratio could be due to the availability of sufficient moisture in plants which governs stomatal closure, electron transport, photo-inhibition in favour of increased assimilation of CO2, enhanced rate of net photosynthesis, electron transfer, production of photosynthetic pigments which inturn increases the leaf area and drymatter production (Abarna and Srinivasan 2019). In addition, better performance of Bt cotton over non – Bt may be due to the genetic trait which is in conformity with the findings of Jana (2005). Higher CGR was observed (4.74g m-1 day-1) at 90-120 days with skipping basal application of N and 50% K as basal + 25% N and 50% K at 45 DAS + 25% N at 60 DAS + 25% N at 75DAS + 25% N at 90 DAS(N4) and lower (3.95 g m-1 day-1) with application of 50 % N and K as basal + 25% N and K at 45 DAS + 25% N and K at 60 DAS(N1). Applying N and K in splits till 90 days after sowing enhanced the availability of nutrients for better crop canopy development, leaf area, higher assimilation of photosynthates thereby resulting in production of higher plant dry mass contributing to higher crop growth rate at boll setting, developing and maturity stages. The results are in conformity with the findings of Abarna and Srinivasan (2019) in cotton. Interaction effect was found to be statistically significant. The treatment, Bt cotton irrigated at 0.8 IW/CPE ratio along with skipping basal application of N and 50% K as basal + 25% N and 50% K at 45 DAS + 25% N at 60 DAS + 25% N at 75DAS + 25% N at 90 DAS documented higher values (2.27 and 8.36g m-1 day-1), while, Non Bt cotton irrigated based on 0.4 IW/CPE ratio during 30-60 and 60-90 DAS (I2V2N4) recorded lower values (1.02 and 2.21 g m-1 day-1). Bt cotton irrigated at 0.8 IW/CPE ratio with split application of 50% K as basal + 25% N and 50% K at 45 DAS + 25% N at 60 DAS + 25% N at 75DAS + 25% N at 90 DAS skipping basal N(I1V1N4) recorded significantly higher value (5.76g m-1day-1) and non – Bt cotton irrigated at 0.4 IW/CPE ratio with application of 50 % N and K as basal + 25% N and K at 45 DAS + 25% N and K at 60 DAS(I2V2N1) recorded lower CGR (3.26g g-1 day-1) at 90-120 days after sowing.\r\nRelative growth rate (g g-1 day-1). Higher values for relative growth rate (0.0554, 0.0211 and 0.0170g g-1 day-1) were recorded when irrigation was given at 0.8 IW/CPE ratio for Bt cotton RCH 659 BG II compared to non- Bt hybrid cotton RCH 659 irrigated at 0.4 IW/CPE ratio which registered lower values (0.0390, 0.0190 and 0.0136g g-1 day-1) at 30-60, 60-90 and 90-120 DAS respectively. The increment in RGR could be due to the supply of adequate amount of irrigation which increased soil moisture content that led to higher leaf area production, besides enhancing photo-assimilation and higher dry biomass accumulation. Earlier findings of Abarna and Srinivasan (2019) are in line with the present results. Superiority of Bt cotton over non-Bt in relation to growth parameter could be due to the genetic factor. Similar results were reported by Gangaiah et al. (2013). Higher values for RGR were obtained at 30-60, 60-90 days in 50 % N and K as basal + 25% N and K at 45 DAS + 25% N and K at 60 DAS (N1). The least was noticed with–Skipping basal application of N and 50% K as basal + 25% N and 50% K at 45 DAS + 25% N at 60 DAS + 25% N at 75DAS + 25% N at 90 DAS (N4). Maximum values of NAR (0.0168 g g-1 day-1) at 90-120 days was observed with (N4) and minimum value (0.0139 g g-1 day-1)with application of 50 % N and K as basal + 25% N and K at 45 DAS + 25% N and K at 60 DAS(N1) during 90-120 days after sowing. The maximum RGR found in 90-120 DAS in cotton would be due to the split supplement of N upto 90 days facilitating better nutrient availability and uptake consequently increasing the biomass production as a result of better photo-assimilation. The results are in accordance with Ali and Hameed (2011). Among the interactions, Bt cotton when irrigated with 0.8 IW/CPE and application of 50% K as basal + 25% N and 50% K at 45 DAS + 25% N at 60 DAS + 25% N at 75 DAS + 25% N at 90 DAS skipping basal N(I1V1N1) recorded higher values (0.0679 and 0.0244g g-1 day-1) and lower values (0.0327 and 0.0193 g g-1 day-1) with Non-Bt cotton irrigated at 0.4 IW/CPE ratio with split application of 50% K as basal + 25% N and 50% K at 45 DAS + 25% N at 60 DAS + 25% N at 75DAS + 25% N skipping basal during 30-60 and 60-90 DAS (I2V2N4). At 90-120 days, I1V1N4, Bt cotton irrigated at 0.8 IW/CPE ratio with split application of 50% K as basal + 25% N and 50% K at 45 DAS + 25% N at 60 DAS + 25% N at 75DAS + 25% N at 90 DAS skipping basal N registered significantly maximum value (0.0199gg-1day-1) and lower value (0.0127g g-1 day-1) with the treatment, non – Bt cotton irrigated at 0.4 IW/CPE ratio with application of 50 % N and K as basal + 25% N and K at 45 DAS + 25% N and K at 60 DAS (I2V2N1). \r\nNet Assimilation Rate (mg cm-1 day-1). Bt cotton when irrigated at 0.8 IW/CPE ratio recorded significantly higher values (0.6157, 0.2511 and 0.2267 mg cm-1 day-1) of NAR among the treatments. Lower values (0.4576, 0.1763 and 0.1700mg cm-1 day-1) of NAR were documented by non- Bt, RCH 659 hybrid irrigated at 0.4 IW/CPE ratio during 30-60, 60-90 and 90-120 DAS respectively. Bt registering higher values could be ascribed to the account of the genetic potential in exploiting the resources for their better growth and development compared to non- Bt. The results were in conformity with the research findings of Shukla et al. (2013). NAR was maximum (0.5936 and 0.2404 g g-1 day-1) during 30-60, 60-90 days with 50 % N and K as basal + 25% N and K at 45 DAS + 25% N and K at 60 DAS. The minimum values (0.4891 and 0.1927 g g-1 day-1) were noticed with skipping basal application of N and application of 50% K as basal + 25% N and 50% K at 45 DAS + 25% N at 60 DAS + 25% N at 75DAS + 25% N at 90 DAS. However, maximum values for NAR (0.2205g g-1 day-1) at 90-120 days after sowing with (N4) and minimum value (0.01790 g g-1 day-1) with N1 were observed. Increased rate of net assimilation found at 90-120 days might be due to the enhanced photosynthetic capacity by leaves with increased leaf area which resulted in enhanced availability and uptake of nutrients by split application of nutrients upto 90 DAS. Similar findings were reported by Ali and Hameed (2011). Among the interactions, Bt cotton when irrigated with 0.8 IW/CPE skipping basal application of N and application of 50% K as basal + 25% N and 50% K at 45 DAS + 25% N at 60 DAS + 25% N at 75, DAS + 25% N at 90 DAS(I1V1N1) recorded higher values (0.7026g g-1 day-1 and 0.2939 g g-1 day-1) and the lower values (0.4243 and 0.1962 g g-1 day-1) with Non Bt cotton irrigated at 0.4 IW/CPE ratio during 30-60 and 60-90 DAS (I2V2N4). At 90-120 days, I1V1N4 registered significantly higher NAR (0.2601g g-1day-1), while lower value (0.1493 g g-1 day-1) was recorded with the treatment, I2V2N1. \r\n','R. Ariraman, ChelviRamessh, A. Gurusamy, P. Saravana Pandian and T. Sivakumar (2022). Irrigation Regimes and Split Application of N and K on Crop Growth Rate, Relative Growth Rate and Net Assimilation rate of Bt and Non- Bt Cotton Genotypes. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 14(2a): 311-315.'),(5154,'134','Studies on Correlation and Path Coefficient Analysis of Yield and Yield Attributing Traits in Semi Dry System of Rice (Oryza sativa L.)','G. Himaja*, Y. Chandra Mohan,C. V. Sameer Kumar and D. Saida Naik','52 Studies on Correlation and Path Coefficient Analysis of Yield and Yield Attributing Traits in Semi Dry System of Rice _Oryza sativa L._ G. Himaja.pdf','',1,'The present investigation was carried out at Rice Research Center, ARI, Rajendranagar, Hyderabad, Telangana, India. The experiment was laid out in Augmented Block Design to study the correlation and path analysis for yield and yield attributing traits of 84 germplasm lines including four standard checks were planted in 4 blocks randomly and each block comprised of 21 germplasm lines in semi dry system during Kharif, 2021. The correlation studies revealed that the highest positive significant association with grain yield per plant was exhibited by Total biomass followed by Root biomass, 1000-grain weight, Kernel length, Spikelet fertility and Milling % which indicated that all these characters were important for yield improvement. Path coefficient analysis has revealed that Total biomass has exhibited the highest positive direct effect on grain yield per plant followed by Amylose content, 1000-grain weight and Milling % indicating that the selection for these characters was likely to bring about an overall improvement in grain yield per plant directly. ','Correlation, Path coefficient, Germplasm lines, Semi dry system of Rice','Through the studies of correlation and path coefficient analysis it can be concluded that the traits like total biomass, 1000-grain weight, kernel length and milling % exhibited a highly significant correlation values. Further, the same traits exhibited a higher values of direct effects on grain yield per plant during Path analysis also, indicating the importance of these traits should be given in selection criteria for enhancing the yield potential.','INTRODUCTION\r\n Rice (Oryza sativa L.) is among the three most important grain crops in the world and it has a major contribution to fulfill the food needs across the globe. In order to meet the demand of increasing population, globally the production of rice has to be increased to 880 MT by 2025. However, conventional rice production system, which involves raising of nursery seedlings followed by transplanting of those seedlings in puddled flooded soil, requires a lot of water, energy and labour resources. Flooded rice fields are also a source of methane emission- a potent greenhouse gas. In this scenario, farmers around the world have been shifted towards water and labour-saving direct seeding of rice. Direct seeding also reduces methane emission (Nawaz et al., 2019). There are several constraints associated with shift from PTR to DSR, such as high weed infestation, evolution of weedy rice, increase in soil borne pathogens (nematodes), lodging, incidence of blast, brown leaf spot etc. Furthermore, semi dry DSR could effectively use the early-season monsoon in areas with limited moisture.\r\nThe efficiency of selection for yield mainly depends on the direction and magnitude of association between yield and its component characters and also among themselves. Character association provides information on the nature and extent of association between pairs of metric traits and helps in selection for the improvement of the character. Correlation gives only the relation between two variables whereas path coefficient analysis allows separation of the direct effect and their indirect effects through other attributes by partitioning the correlations (Wright, 1921).\r\nMATERIAL AND METHODS\r\nA. Materials\r\nThe experimental material for the present study comprised of 84 germplasm lines and 4 checks which were maintained at Rice Research Center, ARI, Rajendranagar, Hyderabad. The experiment was laid out in Augmented Block Design with purpose of evaluating and doing statistical analysis of large number of population, 84 germplasm lines including four standard checks (JGL 11118, SN 1026, Tellahamsa and MTU 1121) which were planted in 4 blocks randomly and each block comprised of 21 germplasm lines planted in three rows. Each genotype was grown in three rows, each row comprising 15 hills with a row spacing of 25 cm and plant to plant spacing of 10 cm. The characters studied were seedling vigour based on plant height, seedling vigour based on leaf number, days to 50% flowering, number of productive tillers per plant, plant height (cm), panicle length (cm), number of filled grains per panicle, spikelet fertility (%), culm strength (gram/stem), stem diameter (mm), root biomass / plant (g), total biomass / plant (g), 1000-grain weight (g), grain yield per plant (g), kernel length (mm), kernel L/B ratio, hulling (%), Milling (%), head Rice Recovery (%), amylose content (%). Recording of observations was carried out on randomly selected competitive plants of each entry.\r\nB. Statistical Analysis\r\nThe statistical analysis was carried out using INDOSTAT software. Correlation coefficients were calculated using the formulae suggested by Falconer (1964). Path coefficient analysis was done according to (Wright, 1921 and Dewey and Lu, 1959) to estimate the direct and \r\nindirect effects at the genotypic and phenotypic levels. \r\n\r\nRESULTS AND DISCUSSION\r\nThe correlation coefficients among yield and yield attributing traits i.e., seedling vigour based on plant height, seedling vigour based on leaf number, days to 50% flowering, number of productive tillers per plant, plant height (cm), panicle length (cm), number of filled grains per panicle, spikelet fertility (%), culm strength (gram/stem), stem diameter (mm), root biomass / plant (g), total biomass / plant (g), 1000-grain weight (g), grain yield per plant (g), kernel length (mm), kernel L/B ratio, hulling (%), milling (%), head Rice Recovery (%), amylose content (%)were assessed and the results have been presented in Table 1, Fig. 1.\r\nThe correlation studies revealed that the grain yield per plant had significant and positive association with spikelet fertility, root biomass, total biomass, 1000-grain weight, kernel length and milling % which indicated that all these characters were important for yield improvement. \r\nSimilar kind of association was revealed by Latha et al. (2003) for 1000-grain weight, Rao and Shrivastav (1999) for spikelet fertility, Marekar and Siddiqui (1997) for kernel length. \r\nThe study of phenotypic correlation studies showed that selection of plants with higher spikelet fertility, root biomass, total biomass, 1000-grain weight, kernel length and milling % would result in improvement of yield.\r\n Interrelationships among yield attributing traits revealed that seedling vigour based on plant height has exhibited significant positive correlation with seedling vigour based on leaf number, plant height. It has also shown significant negative correlation with days to 50% flowering, culm strength, amylose content. seedling vigour based on leaf number has exhibited significant positive correlation with seedling vigour based on plant height, plant height, kernel length. It has also shown significant negative correlation with days to 50% flowering, amylose content. Days to 50% flowering has exhibited significant positive correlation with culm strength. It has also shown significant negative correlation with seedling vigour based on plant height, seedling vigour based on leaf number, spikelet fertility, kernel length, milling %. Similar results were reported by Ramesh Babu (1999), Nayak et al. (2001) for kernel length. Number of productive tillers per plant has exhibited significant positive correlation with root biomass, total biomass, kernel L/B ratio. It has also shown significant negative correlation with number of filled grains per panicle, culm strength. Plant height has exhibited significant positive correlation with seedling vigour based on plant height, seedling vigour based on leaf number, panicle length, stem diameter, total biomass. It has also shown significant negative correlation with kernel L/B ratio, hulling %. Similar results were reported by Kavitha and Sree Rama Reddi (2001), Tara satyavathi et al. (2001), Latha et al. (2003) for panicle length. Panicle length has exhibited significant positive correlation with plant height, 1000-grain weight, kernel length. Similar results were reported by Latha et al. (2003) for plant height, Latha et al. (2003) for 1000-grain weight, Reddy et al. (1997), Ramesh Babu (1999) for kernel length. Number of filled grains per panicle has exhibited significant positive correlation with head Rice Recovery and significant negative correlation with number of productive tillers per plant, 1000-grain weight, kernel length. Similar results were reported by Nayak et al. (2001) for 1000-grain weight, Ramesh Babu (1999), Nayak et al. (2001) for kernel length. Spikelet fertility has exhibited significant positive correlation with milling %, head Rice Recovery, grain yield per plant. It has also shown significant negative correlation with days to 50% flowering, culm strength. Similar results were reported by Kumar et al. (1998), Rao and Shrivastav (1999) for grain yield per plant. Culm strength has exhibited significant positive correlation with days to 50% flowering. It has also shown significant negative correlation with seedling vigour based on plant height, number of productive tillers per plant, spikelet fertility, hulling %. \r\nStem diameter has exhibited significant positive correlation with plant height, root biomass, total biomass. Root biomass / plant has exhibited significant positive correlation with number of productive tillers per plant, stem diameter, total biomass, grain yield per plant. Total biomass / plant has exhibited significant positive correlation with number of productive tillers per plant, plant height, stem diameter, root biomass, kernel length, grain yield per plant. It has also shown significant negative correlation with hulling %. 1000-grain weight has exhibited significant positive correlation with panicle length, kernel length, grain yield per plant. It has also shown significant negative correlation with number of filled grains per panicle. Similar results were reported by Tara Satyavathi et al. (2001), Latha et al. (2003) for grain yield per plant, Satish et al. (2003) for number of filled grains per panicle. \r\nKernel length has exhibited significant positive correlation with seedling vigour based on leaf number, panicle length, total biomass, 1000-grain weight, kernel L/B ratio, grain yield per plant. It has also shown significant negative correlation with days to 50% flowering, number of filled grains per panicle, hulling %. Similar results were reported by Marekar and Siddiqui (1997) for grain yield per plant, Nayak et al. (2001) for 1000-grain weight, Asha Christopher (1999), Nayak et al. (2001) for kernel L/B ratio. Kernel L/B ratio has exhibited significant positive correlation with number of productive tillers per plant, kernel length, head Rice Recovery, amylose content. It has also shown significant negative correlation with plant height. Hulling % has exhibited significant positive correlation with milling %. It has also shown significant negative correlation with plant height, culm strength, total biomass, kernel length. Similar results were reported by Prem et al. (2010) for milling %. Milling % has exhibited significant positive correlation with spikelet fertility, hulling %, head Rice Recovery, grain yield per plant. It has also shown significant negative correlation with days to 50% flowering. Head Rice Recovery has exhibited significant positive correlation with number of filled grains per panicle, spikelet fertility, kernel L/B ratio, milling %, amylose content. Amylose content has exhibited significant positive correlation with kernel L/B ratio, head Rice Recovery. It has also shown significant negative correlation with seedling vigour based on plant height, seedling vigour based on leaf number.\r\nPath coefficient analysis estimates for yield and yield attributing traits, have been presented in Table 2, Fig. 2. The studies revealed that seedling vigour based on plant height had exhibited negligible direct phenotypic negative effect on grain yield per plant. The trait contributed negative non-significant correlation with grain yield. However, the contribution of seedling vigour based on plant height on grain yield per plant through other traits were negligible in both positive and negative direction. Seedling vigour based on leaf number had exhibited negligible direct phenotypic positive effect on grain yield per plant. The trait contributed negative non-significant correlation with grain yield. However, the contribution of seedling vigour based on leaf number on grain yield per plant through other traits were negligible in both positive and negative direction. Days to 50% flowering had exhibited negligible direct phenotypic negative effect on grain yield per plant. The trait contributed negative non-significant correlation with grain yield. However, the contribution of days to 50% flowering on grain yield per plant through other traits were negligible in both positive and negative direction. Similar results were reported by Kavitha and Sree Rama Reddi (2001), Nayak et al. (2001) for negative direct effect of days to 50% flowering on grain yield per plant. Number of productive tillers per plant had exhibited low direct phenotypic negative effect on grain yield per plant. The trait contributed positive non-significant correlation with grain yield. However, the contribution of number of productive tillers per plant on grain yield per plant through other traits were negligible in both positive and negative direction. Similar results were reported by Kavitha and Sree Rama Reddi (2001), Janardhanam et al. (2001) for negative direct effect of number of productive tillers per plant on grain yield per plant. Plant height had exhibited high direct phenotypic negative effect on grain yield per plant. The trait contributed negative non-significant correlation with grain yield. It has shown negative indirect effects on yield through seedling vigour based on plant height, panicle length. Similar results were reported by Gupta et al. (1998), Valarmathi and Leenakumary (1998), Nayak et al. (2004) for negative direct effect of plant height on grain yield per plant. Panicle length had exhibited negligible direct phenotypic positive effect on grain yield per plant. The trait contributed positive non-significant correlation with grain yield. However, the contribution of panicle length on grain yield per plant through other traits were negligible in both positive and negative direction. Similar results were reported by Bala (2001), Chakraborty (2001), Kavitha and Sree Rama Reddi (2001), Tara Satyavathi et al. (2001), Nayak et al. (2004), Raju et al. (2004) for positive direct effect of panicle length on grain yield per plant. Number of filled grains per panicle had exhibited negligible direct phenotypic negative effect on grain yield per plant. The trait contributed negative non-significant correlation with grain yield. However, the contribution of number of filled grains per panicle on grain yield per plant through other traits were negligible in both positive and negative direction. Spikelet fertility had exhibited negligible direct phenotypic positive effect on grain yield per plant. The trait contributed positive significant correlation with grain yield. However, the contribution of spikelet fertility on grain yield per plant through other traits were negligible in both positive and negative direction. Similar results were reported by Kumar et al. (1998), Latha et al. (2003) for positive direct effect of spikelet fertility on grain yield per plant. Culm strength had exhibited negligible direct phenotypic positive effect on grain yield per plant. The trait contributed positive non-significant correlation with grain yield. However, the contribution of culm strength on grain yield per plant through other traits were negligible in both positive and negative direction. Stem diameter had exhibited negligible direct phenotypic negative effect on grain yield per plant. The trait contributed positive non-significant correlation with grain yield. However, the contribution of stem diameter on grain yield per plant through other traits were negligible in both positive and negative direction. Root biomass / plant had exhibited high direct phenotypic negative effect on grain yield per plant. The trait contributed positive significant correlation with grain yield. It has shown negative indirect effects on yield through total biomass / plant. Total biomass / plant had exhibited high direct phenotypic positive effect on grain yield per plant. The trait contributed positive significant correlation with grain yield. It has shown positive indirect effects on yield through seedling vigour based on leaf number, number of productive tillers per plant, plant height, panicle length, stem diameter, root biomass / plant, 1000-grain weight, kernel length and negative indirect effects on yield through hulling %, amylose content. 1000-grain weight had exhibited low direct phenotypic positive effect on grain yield per plant. The trait contributed positive significant correlation with grain yield. It has shown positive indirect effects on yield through kernel length. \r\nSimilar results were reported by Nayak et al. (2001), Tara satyavathi et al. (2001), Satish et al. (2003), Latha et al. (2003), Nayak et al. (2004) for positive direct effect of 1000-grain weight on grain yield per plant.\r\n Kernel length had exhibited negligible direct phenotypic negative effect on grain yield per plant. The trait contributed positive significant correlation with grain yield. However, the contribution of Kernel length on grain yield per plant through other traits were negligible in both positive and negative direction. Similar results were reported by Panduranga Rao et al. (1986), Ganesan et al. (1997), Vivekanandan and Giridharan (1998) for negative direct effect of kernel length on grain yield per plant. Kernel L/B ratio had exhibited negligible direct phenotypic negative effect on grain yield per plant. The trait contributed positive non-significant correlation with grain yield. However, the contribution of kernel L/B ratio on grain yield per plant through other traits were negligible in both positive and negative direction. Hulling % had exhibited negligible direct phenotypic negative effect on grain yield per plant. The trait contributed negative non-significant correlation with grain yield. However, the contribution of hulling % on grain yield per plant through other traits were negligible in both positive and negative direction. Milling % had exhibited low direct phenotypic positive effect on grain yield per plant. The trait contributed positive significant correlation with grain yield. However, the contribution of milling % on grain yield per plant through other traits were negligible in both positive and negative direction. Head Rice Recovery had exhibited negligible direct phenotypic positive effect on grain yield per plant. The trait contributed positive non-significant correlation with grain yield. However, the contribution of head Rice Recovery on grain yield per plant through other traits were negligible in both positive and negative direction. Similar results were reported by Ekka et al. (2011) and Edukondalu et al. (2017) for positive direct effect of head rice recovery percentage on grain yield per plant. Amylose content had exhibited moderate direct phenotypic positive effect on grain yield per plant. The trait contributed positive non-significant correlation with grain yield. However, the contribution of amylose content on grain yield per plant through other traits were negligible in both positive and negative direction. Similar results were reported by Saxena and Suman (2017) for positive direct effect of amylose content on grain yield per plant.\r\nResidual effect was 0.6889 for phenotypic path coefficient analysis, high value of residual effect could be due to the influence of other traits which were not included in this study. The association of different component characters among themselves and with yield is quite important for devising an efficient selection criterion for yield. The total correlation between yield and component characters may be some times misleading, as it might be an over-estimate or under-estimate because of its association with other characters. Hence, indirect selection by correlated response may not be sometimes fruitful, when many characters are affecting a given character, splitting the total correlation into direct and indirect effects of cause as devised by Wright (1921) would give more meaningful interpretation to the cause of association between the dependent variable like yield and independent variables like yield components. This kind of information will be helpful in formulating the selection criteria, indicating the selection for these characters is likely to bring about on overall improvement in single plant yield directly.\r\nPath coefficient analysis revealed that total biomass has exhibited the highest positive direct effect on grain yield per plant followed by amylose content, 1000-grain weight and milling % indicating that the selection for these characters was likely to bring about an overall improvement in grain yield per plant directly. Therefore, it is suggested that preference should be given to these characters in the selection programme to isolate superior lines with genetic potentiality for higher yield in rice genotypes.\r\n','G. Himaja*, Y. Chandra Mohan, C. V. Sameer Kumar and D. Saida Naik (2022). Studies on Correlation and Path Coefficient Analysis of Yield and Yield Attributing Traits in Semi Dry System of Rice (Oryza sativa L.). Biological Forum – An International Journal, 14(2a): 316-324.'),(5155,'134','Standardization of Time of Grafting and Age of Rootstock in Custard Apple (Annona squamosa L.)','Y.B. Dharmik, Ekta D. Bagde*, H.B. Goramnagar, P.N. Dawaneand and S.P. Patinge','53 Standardization of Time of Grafting and Age of Rootstock in Custard Apple _Annona squamosa L._ Ekta_D.pdf','',1,'The germination of custard apple through seed took long time and with very poor germination percentage due to seed dormancy and hard seed coat hence the softwood grafting is a most vital factor which determines the days of grafting. To standardize the vegetative propagation and time of operation of grafting in custard apple the present study was carried out. The grafting was do neat four different time (3rd week of January, 1st week of February, 3rd Week of February, 1st Week of March) having 4 different ages of rootstock i.e., seven months, eight months, nine months and ten months rootstock. The results from three consecutive years of investigation revealed that rootstock age and grafting time significantly influences on the grafting success per cent. Seven-month-old rootstock grafting during 3rd week of January (95.11%) showed highest grafting success. The pooled mean analysis showed maximum height of rootstock i.e., 64.22 cm on ten-month-old rootstock grafted during 1st week of march. Significantly maximum number of leaves and diameter of rootstock were recorded in ten-month-old rootstock i.e., 17.89 and 1.06cm grafted during 1st week of March.','Custard apple, Age of rootstock, Time of Grafting','The critical study on standardization of grafting period and age of rootstock in custard apple indicated that, regarding the overall performance of success seven-month-old rootstock grafted during 3rd week of January showed the maximum success and hence based on three-year data this period is recommended for the grafting in custard apple for Vidarbha region of Maharashtra. ','INTRODUCTION\r\nIn India there are number of minor fruit crops which has significant role in human health having very nutritious, medicinal and health properties. Among which Custard apple (Annona squamosa L.) a well-balanced dryland fruit crop rich in carbohydrate in the form of sugar (23.64%), protein (2.06%), calcium (24.0mg/100g), phosphorus (32.0mg/100g) and iron (0.6mg/100g) having excellent source of Vitamin C (36.3mg/100g), a good source of dietary fibre (4.4g/100g), a useful source of Vitamin B6 (0.2mg/100g), magnesium (21.0mg/100g) and potassium (247.0mg/100g), and with some B2 (0.113mg/100g). The custard apple of India, the sitaphal or sugar apple introduced from tropical America and found in wild form in many parts of the country. It is common in China, Philippines, Egypt and Central Africa. Custard apple growing regions in India include Assam, Bihar, Madhya Pradesh, Maharashtra, Odisha, Rajasthan, and Uttar Pradesh, Andhra Pradesh, Telangana and Tamil Nadu. In India, it occupies area 46 thousand ha with production 401 thousand ha (Annonymous, 2017-18 http://agricoop.nic.in). Maharashtra and Gujarat are another large custard apple growing state. However, the germination of custard apple through seed took long time and with very poor percentage germination because of seed dormancy and hard seed coat hence the softwood grafting is a most vital factor which determines the days of grafting and it is the easiest and cheapest method of propagation results in giving maximum success percentage in fruit crops like jamun (Syzygium cumini L. Skeel), tamarind (Tamrindus indica L.), and custard apple (Annona squamosa L) (Chovatia and Singh 2000; Awasthi and Shukla 2003; Ghosh et al., 2004). The soft wood grafting has huge advantages over the other methods of propagation Pawar et al. (2018). In order to standardize the suitable grafting time and age of rootstock the present investigation on ‘Study on propagation of custard apple’ were studied to find out maximum success.\r\nMATERIALS AND METHODS\r\nAn Investigation on Propagation of custard apple to find out suitable grafting time and age of root stock has been carried out at nursery of Regional Fruit Research Station, Katol District Nagpur during 2017 to 2020 under shed net condition. The treatment comprised of 4 different grafting time (3rd week of January, 1st week of February, 3rd Week of February, 1st Week of March) and 4 different ages of rootstock i.e., seven months, Eight months, nine months and Ten Months rootstock. The experiment was laid out in (Factorial Randomized Block Design) FRBD with sixteen treatment combinations and three replications. The grafting was employed in custard apple, thirty seedlings of local cultivar having different age were used as rootstock was selected for performing grafting. The statistical analysis was followed as suggested by Panse and Sukhatme (1996). The percentage of graft success was calculated by following given formula\r\nPercentage of graft success (%)\r\n= \r\nRESULT AND DISCUSSION\r\nThe data presented in Table 1 showed the height of rootstock at the time of grafting. The local rootstock was selected for grafting and the trial was conducted for 3 successive years starting from 2017-18 to 2019-2020. The rootstock age significantly influences the height of rootstock. During the year 2017-18 the maximum height of rootstock was recorded on ten months old seedling i.e., 64.00cm during 1st week of March followed by 3rd week of February i.e. 63.33cm. During 2018-19, the same results were found while the minimum height of rootstock was recorded in 7 months old rootstock on 3rd week of January i.e., 50.33 cm. While, during 2019-20, the maximum height of rootstock was recorded on ten-month-old seedling (64.67cm) during 1st week of March. In pooled analysis the significantly maximum height was recorded in ten-month-old rootstock (64.22cm) followed by nine-month-old rootstock (63.11cm) and eight-month rootstock (61.22cm). However, minimum height of rootstock was obtained in seven-month-old rootstock (50.78cm) during 3rd week of January. Interaction effect was also found significant. Significantly maximum height was recorded in ten-month-old rootstock with the grafting time 1st week of March (61.52cm). The results are in conformity with the findings of Mane et al. (2018); Dhutraj et al. (2018) who observed maximum height during grafting on 1st January. \r\n\r\n \r\nThe results pertaining in Table 2 was about the number of leaves at different age of rootstocks during the time of grafting and the pooled results showed that the maximum number of leaves were recorded in ten-month-old rootstock (17.89) followed by nine (15.00) and eight (13.33) month old rootstock during 1st week of March. The results are in agreement with Kudmulwar et al. (2008); Mane et al. (2018). \r\nThe data presented in Table 3 was regarding the diameter of rootstock which plays an important role in the success of grafts. The grafts of custard apple were grafted at four different time i.e., 3rd week of January, 1st week of February, 3rd Week of February, 1st Week of March) on 7, 8, 9, and 10 months old rootstocks. Significantly the maximum diameter was noticed in ten months old rootstock (1.06 cm) and nine months old rootstock (0.99cm). However, minimum diameter was obtained in seven (0.86cm) and eight months old rootstock (0.89cm). Based on three-year data the interactive effect of age of rootstock at the time of grafting was found non-significant. The results were found in conformity with the findings of Patil et al. (2017). The results on grafting success % study was predicted in Table 4, the age of rootstock and growth parameters of rootstock plays a significantly influenced on grafting success. During the year of 2015-16, the maximum grafting success % was noticed on seven-month-old rootstock grafted during 3rd week of January (95.00%). While, minimum success percentage was observed on ten-month-old rootstock grafted during 1st week of March i.e. (79.00%) The same trend was observed during 2016-17 and 2017-18. The pooled results showed that seven months old root stock was significantly superior over all other treatments (95.11%) and it was followed by eight months old root stock (94.67%) during 3rd week of January. Significantly minimum success of grafting was observed in ten months old root stock (79.11%) during 1st week of March. The interaction was found to be non-significant. The results are in supported with Hartman and Kestar (1972); Shinde et al. (1966); Kulkarni (1990); Dhutraj et al. (2018); Dhutraj and Baghat (2019) who observed January to February was the period for the maximum success of grafting in custard apple. The results pertaining in Table 2 was about the number of leaves at different age of rootstocks during the time of grafting. The pooled results showed that the maximum number of leaves were recorded in ten-month-old rootstock (17.89) followed by nine (15.00) and eight (13.33) month old rootstock during 1st week of March.\r\n \r\nThe results are in agreement with Kudmulwar et al. (2008); Mane et al. (2018). \r\nThe data presented in Table 3 was regarding the diameter of rootstock which plays an important role in the success of grafts. The grafts of custard apple were grafted at four different time i.e., 3rd week of January, 1st week of February, 3rd Week of February, 1st Week of March) on 7, 8, 9, and 10 months old rootstocks. Significantly the maximum diameter was noticed in ten months old rootstock (1.06 cm) and nine months old rootstock (0.99cm), However, minimum diameter was obtained in seven (0.86cm) and eight months old rootstock (0.89cm). Based on three-year data the interactive effect of age of rootstock at the time of grafting was found non-significant. The results were found in conformity with the findings of Patil et al. (2017).\r\nThe results on grafting success % study was predicted in Table 4, the age of rootstock and growth parameters of rootstock plays a significantly influenced on grafting success. During the year of 2015-16, the maximum grafting success % was noticed on seven-month-old rootstock grafted during 3rd week of January (95.00%). While, minimum success percentage was observed on ten-month-old rootstock grafted during 1st week of March i.e. (79.00%) The same trend was observed during 2016-17 and 2017-18. The pooled results showed that seven months old root stock was significantly superior over all other treatments (95.11%) and it was followed by eight months old root stock (94.67%) during 3rd week of January. Significantly minimum success of grafting was observed in ten months old root stock (79.11%) during 1st week of March. The interaction was found to be non-significant. The results are in supported with Hartman and Kestar (1972); Shinde et al. (1996); Kulkarni (1990); Dhutraj et al. (2018); Dhutraj and Baghat (2019) who observed January to February was the period for the maximum success of grafting in custard apple.\r\n','Y.B. Dharmik, Ekta D. Bagde, H.B. Goramnagar, P.N. Dawaneand and S.P. Patinge (2022). Standardization of Time of Grafting and Age of Rootstock in Custard Apple (Annona squamosa L.). Biological Forum – An International Journal, 14(2a): 325-328.'),(5156,'134','Weed Control, Nutrient Studies and Greengram Performance with New Molecules of Pre and Post Emergence Herbicides','Y. Chaithanya, B. Padmaja*, M. Malla Reddy and T. Srijaya','54 Weed Control, Nutrient Studies and Greengram Performance with New Molecules of Pre and Post Emergence Herbicides B. PADMAJA.pdf','',1,'Herbicide use is increasingly being adopted around the world due to non-availability and high wages of labour. As greengram is a short duration crop with slow initial growth faces severe weed infestation. So there is a dire need to identify the new molecules of herbicides. Based on the problem identified, a field experiment was conducted during rabi season 2020-21 at Professor Jayashankar Telangana State Agriculture University, Rajendranagar, Hyderabad to study the bioefficacy of new generation herbicides on rabi greengram. Herbicidal effect was evaluated on weed control, nutrient studies and crop performance in greengram. Based on the observations recorded, application of Diclosulam 84 % WDG @ 26 g a.i ha-1 as PE(pre emergence) and Diclosulam 84 % WDG @ 26 g a.i ha-1 as PE fb Imazethapyr 10 % SL @ 75 g a.i ha-1 as PoE (post emergence) at 20 days after sowing (DAS) recorded higher weed control efficiency. On the contrary the weed index was high due to phytotoxic effect on the crop which resulted in severe yield loss. Apart from the diclosulam treated plots, Imazethapyr 10 % SL + Quizalofop ethyl 5 % EC (tank mix) @ 125 g a.i ha-1 as PoE at 20 DAS has recorded higher control of weeds, nutrient uptake, higher yield by the crop which was found on par with weed free check.','Greengram, nutrient removal, nutrient uptake, pre and post emergence herbicides, weed control','From the results it can be concluded that application of imazethapyr 10 % SL + quizalofop ethyl 5 % EC (tank mix) @ 125 g a.i ha-1 as PoE at 20 DAS or pendimethalin 30 % EC + imazethapyr 2 % EC combination @ 960 g a.i ha-1 as PE can be recommended for fetching higher yield and net returns in rabi greengram.','INTRODUCTION\r\nGreengram (Vigna radiata L.) is an important pulse crop in India grown in all the seasons’ viz., kharif, rabi and summer. The potential yield of most of the varieties ranges from 1200-1600 kg ha-1, but the productivity is far less than the potential yield. There are many constraints for this low yield i.e. loss caused by weed, cultivation on poor and marginal lands and inadequate fertilization, but weed infestation is one of the main constraints. It faces severe weed competition due to its initial slow growth and lack of effective weed control measures. The weed interference in greengram can be effectively managed by practices like hand weeding and intercultivation. But, these traditional methods have become costly, tedious, labor intensive which requires more time to keep the crop weed free. \r\nOne of the possible courses of action for controlling weeds would be through herbicides at appropriate level. The progressive modernization of agriculture involving intensive use of herbicides is acquiring popularity in recent years due to lower cost, easy and timely application and efficiency in controlling weeds. Keeping in view all the points, the present study was taken up.\r\nMATERIAL AND METHODS\r\nA field experiment was conducted during rabi, 2020-2021 at College farm, Professor Jayashankar Telangana State Agriculture University, Rajendranagar, Hyderabad, Telangana state. The soil of experimental site was sandy loam in texture and slightly alkaline in reaction (pH 7.96), low in organic carbon (0.39 %) and available nitrogen (235.8 kg/ha), high in available phosphorous (45.5 kg/ha) and potassium (384.6 kg/ha) with electrical conductivity of 0.41 dS/m. The experiment was laid out in randomized complete block design having three replications with ten treatments. Greengram variety MGG-347 was sown on 6th November 2020 with a spacing of 30 × 10 cm. Basal application of 20:50:20 kg ha-1 NPK was done. PE herbicides was applied one day after sowing the crop and PoE herbicides was applied at 20 days after sowing (DAS). The weed samples and crop samples collected at flowering stage and at harvest were sundried for two days and then dried in hot air oven at 60°C to a constant weight were used for analysis after grinding by using the Willey mill and this powder was used for estimation of N, P and K to work out uptake of major nutrients. The treatment details include:\r\nWeed control efficiency (WCE) was calculated based on the following formula, (Mani et al., 1973).\r\n1. WCE (%)=(〖DM〗_C-〖DM〗_T)/〖DM〗_C × 100\r\n2.Weed index (%)=(X-Y_T)/X× 100 (Gill and Vijaykumar, 1969)\r\n 3.HEI=(Y_T-Y_C)/Y_T ×〖DM〗_C/〖DM〗_T (Krishnamurthy et al., 1975)\r\n Where, WCE = Weed Control Efficiency (%)\r\nHEI =Herbicide efficiency index\r\nDMc = Dry matter of weeds in the unweeded check (control)\r\nDMT = Dry matter of weeds in the treatment imposed plot \r\nX: grain yield from weed free check or maximum yield treatment\r\nYT: grain yield from treatment for which weed index is to be calculated\r\nYC= Yield of control (unweeded) plot\r\nRESULTS AND DISCUSSION\r\nA. Nutrient Studies in Crop and Weed \r\nNutrient uptake by crop (kg ha-1). Nutrient uptake by plant was significantly influenced by different herbicide combinations at flowering and harvest stage of the crop. At flowering stage of the crop, significantly higher uptake of Nitrogen (N), Phosphorous (P) and Potassium (K) was recorded with weed free check. Among the herbicides, imazethapyr 10 % SL + quizalofop ethyl 5 % EC (tank mix) @ 125 g a.iha-1 as PoE at 20 DAS registered significantly higher uptake of nutrients which was at par with weed free check. Higher uptake of N, P and K in seed and haulm was registered with weed free check. Significantly higher values of N, P and K in seed and haulm were recorded under weed free check followed by imazethapyr 10 % SL + quizalofop ethyl 5 % EC (tank mix) @ 125 g a.i ha-1 as PoE at 20 DAS which were at par with each other. This was followed by pendimethalin 30 % EC + imazethapyr 2 % EC combination @ 960 g a.i ha-1 as PE and sodium acifluorphen 16.5 % EC + clodinafoppropargyl 8 % EC @ 250 g a.i ha-1 as PoE at 20 DAS. The growth of the weeds was suppressed with the herbicide combinations which reduced the weed dry matter accumulation. The better weed control efficiency in those treatments led to vigorous growth of the plants resulting in higher biological yield due to higher uptake of nutrients. This was coupled with more transfer of nutrients to the seed, which was the ultimate sink. Due to phytotoxicity of herbicide, diclosulam 84 % WDG @ 26 g a.i ha-1 as PE and diclosulam 84 % WDG @ 26 g a.i ha-1 as PE fbimazethapyr 10 % SL @ 75 g a.i ha-1 as PoE at 20 DAS recorded lower uptake of N, P and K than unweeded check at flowering and harvest stage of the crop. Similar findings were reported by Jinger et al. (2016).\r\nNutrient removal by weeds. Nutrient removal by weeds at flowering differed significantly among the treatments and highest was recorded under unweeded check and the lowest uptake was seen with diclosulam 84 % WDG @ 26 g a.i ha-1 as PE followed by imazethapyr 10 % SL @ 75 g a.iha-1 as PoE at 20 DAS and diclosulam 84 % WDG @ 26 g a.i ha-1 as PE which was at par with weed free check. This was followed by imazethapyr 10 % SL + quizalofop ethyl 5 % EC (tank mix) @ 125 g a.iha-1 as PoE at 20 DAS. The results disclosed that all the herbicide combinations resulted in lower depletion of nutrients by the weeds when compared to unweeded check. Similar trend was followed at harvest. The highest removal of nutrients in unweeeded check might be due to more density and growth of weeds. Whereas, least values of nutrient depletion by weeds was observed with herbicidal combinations as they have effectively controlled weeds which made more amount of nutrients available to the crop. This has led to lower removal of nutrients by weeds due to competition from the crop plants. Komal et al. (2015), Poornima et al. (2018) in greengram and Bhimwal et al. (2019) in soybean were of similar opinion.\r\nB. Weed control efficiency, Weed index and Herbicide Efficiency Index\r\nHigher weed control efficiency was observed with diclosulam 84 % WDG @ 26 g a.i ha-1 as PE fb imazethapyr 10 % SL @ 75 g a.i ha-1 as PoE at 20 DAS which was followed by diclosulam 84 % WDG @ 26 g a.i ha-1 as pre-emergence application and imazethapyr 10 % SL + quizalofopethyl 5 % EC (tank mix) @ 125 g a.i ha-1 as PoE at 20 DAS (Table 2). Lower weed index and higher herbicide efficiency index was recorded with imazethapyr 10 % SL + quizalofop ethyl 5% EC (tank mix) @ 125 g a.i ha-1 as PoE at 20 DAS and pendimethalin 30 % EC + imazethapyr 2 % EC combination @ 960 g a.i ha-1 as PE. Lower herbicide efficiency index was encountered with diclosulam treated plots (W1 and W6) as they have shown phytotoxic effects on the crop resulting in low yields even though the weed control efficiency of diclosulam was superior. The results are analogous to those obtained by Singh et al. (2016); Adhikary (2018) in blackgram.\r\nC. Seed yield (Kg ha-1), Haulm yield (Kg ha-1) and Harvest index (%\r\nDifferent weed control treatments have shown significant variation in seed yield (Table 2). Higher seed yield was registered with weed free check (1430) but the herbicide combinations i.e, imazethapyr 10 % SL + quizalofop ethyl 5 % EC (tank mix) @ 125 g a.i ha-1 as PoE at 20 DAS (1375) and pendimethalin 30 % EC + imazethapyr 2 % EC combination @ 960 g a.i ha-1 as PE (1244) were on par with weed free check which has shown 53.01 % more increment in seed yield over the unweeded check. The findings are analogous to those obtained by Poornima et al. (2018); Singh et al. (2021) in greengram.\r\n \r\nHigher haulm yield was registered with weed free check (2570) which was at par with imazethapyr 10 % SL + quizalofop ethyl 5 % EC (tank mix) @ 125 g a.iha-1as PoE at 20 DAS (2503), pendimethalin 30 % EC + imazethapyr 2 % EC combination @ 960 g a.i ha-1 as PE (2418), imazethapyr 3.75 % + propaquizafop 2.5 % w/w ME @ 125 g a.iha-1 as PoE at 20 DAS (2292) and sodium acifluorphen 16.5 % EC + clodinafoppropargyl 8 % EC @ 250 g a.i ha-1 as PoE at 20 DAS (2282). On the contrary, diclosulam 84 % WDG @ 26 g a.i ha-1 as PE (164) and diclosulam 84 % WDG @ 26 g a.i ha-1 as PE fbimazethapyr 10 % SL @ 75 g a.i ha-1 as PoE at 20 DAS recorded lower seed and haulm yield due to phytotoxicity of the crop resulting in poor accumulation of photosynthates. Similar trend was followed for harvest index. The higher yield is due to better expression of yield attributes. The enhanced yield attributes and yield might be due to poor density and growth of weeds. Consequently the crop was able to compete with the weeds for all the necessary growth factors. The superior values of yield attributing characters were the outcome of these effects. The findings are analogous to those obtained by Singh et al. (2017); Lata and Kushwaha (2019).\r\nD. Economics\r\nHigher net returns and B: C ratio was realized with imazethapyr 10 % SL + quizalofop ethyl 5 % EC (tank mix) @ 125 g a.i ha-1 as PoE at 20 DAS and pendimethalin 30 % EC + imazethapyr 2 % EC combination @ 960 g a.i ha-1 as PE. The least was observed with diclosulam treated plots as the herbicide has shown phytotoxicity which led to yield loss. Similar results were obtained by Tamang et al. (2015); Arvind and Roshan (2020) in greengram.\r\n','Y. Chaithanya, B. Padmaja, M. Malla Reddy and T. Srijaya (2022). Weed Control, Nutrient Studies and Greengram Performance with New Molecules of Pre and Post Emergence Herbicides. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 14(2a): 329-332.'),(5157,'134','Effect of Rabbit Manure on Productive Performance of Flip of Fodder Grass - Cumbu Napier Hybrid','M. Suganthi*, S. Usha and M. Murugan','55 Effect of Rabbit Manure on Productive Performance of Flip of Fodder Grass - Cumbu Napier Hybrid M. Suganthi.pdf','',1,'Organic agriculture is expanding worldwide because synthetic fertilizers are paved the way for deterioration of soil health and in turn ill-effects on plants, human being and livestock. Rabbits are herbivores can extract energy and nutrients from feedstuffs rich in fibre. Finding out alternate manure in organic farming will help to increase the availability and decrease the over dependence of single manure. Hence, the present study was carried out to study the effect rabbit manure on Cumbu Napier hybrid grass in comparison with other livestock manure. Collection of rabbit manure is a big challenge. For that rabbit manure is collected along with crop residues and allowed it for composting. A filed experiments were conducted at PGRIAS, TANUVAS during 2019-20. The experiments were laid out in Randomised Block Design with three replication in main and ratoon crops. Treatments included were different doses of rabbit manure (150, 125, 100, 75, 50, 25 Percent : T1-T6 respectively) in comparison with FYM (T7), Pig manure (T8), Poultry manure(T9), Inorganic fertilizer (T10) and control (T11). From the above study it could be concluded that application of rabbit manure (100 percent) recorded the higher yield of 438.1 and 405.4 t/ha in main and ratoon crops respectively. This was followed by T4, T7, T8 and T9. However the higher doses of rabbit manure application increased the yield and it was on par with T3. Hence 100 percent application of rabbit manure is recommended and it is the best alternate for the other existing manure. ','Rabbit manure, CN hybrid, Organic farming','From the above study, application of rabbit manure (100 percent) improved the soil quality and plant growth characters and yield of cumbunapier hybrid grass. This is followed by 75 percent application of rabbit manure, 100% FYM, sheep and goat manure, and poultry manure application. The yields were significantly reduced in inorganic manure applied field compared to the above treatments especially during second crop. Extremely reduced yields were observed in control plot due to nil manure application. It could be concluded that rabbit manure application is alternate source of manure in organic farming because of its high nitrogen content. Further in, organic farming nitrogen requirement can be met by the minimum quantity of rabbit manure and it is best alternate to all other manures. ','INTRODUCTION\r\nOrganic agriculture is an ecologically intensive production system expanding worldwide as demand for sustainability increases (Eyhorn et al., 2019; Willer et al., 2019). organic farms produce lower yields than comparable conventional farms (Seufert et al., 2012; Ponisio et al., 2015), they are more profitable, more friendly to pollinators and the environment, and deliver equally or more nutritious foods with fewer pesticide residues (Kennedy et al., 2013; Tuck et al., 2014; Reganold and Wachter 2016; Seufert and Ramankutty 2017). Organic farming relies on large-scale application of animal or farm yard manure (FYM), compost, crop rotation, residues, green manuring, vermicompost, bio-fertilizers and bio-pesticides (Muhammad Naeem et al., 2006).\r\nVarious studies proved that application of organic material improve the soil quality, fertility and even in soil reclamation. Assessment of physical, chemical, physico-chemical properties and functions of organic materials such as cow dung manure, sheep and goat manure, pig manure and rabbit manure compost would improve the soil quality and soil fertility (Rajendran et al., 2019). Rabbits are herbivores mainly fed with high fibre diet for proper digestion along with concentrate feed. Rabbit farming now gaining its popularity in tropical condition state of India like Tamil Nadu. Globally, the demand of meat is projected to be 73% higher in 2050, and a major part of this increase will arise from the developing countries (FAO, 2011), because of the increasing income and fast population growth (Makkar et al., 2014). Rabbits can extract energy and nutrients from feedstuffs that are rich in fibre (Finzi, 2008), and as such they can extract nutrients and energy for low-cost roughages and other organic wastes Rabbit compost contains the highest nitrogen content compared to other livestock manure (Irlbeck, 2001). Finding out alternate manure and its usage will help to increase the availability and decrease the over dependence of single manure. Hence, the present study was planned to study the effect of adult New Zealand white rabbit manure on growth performance of Cumbu Napier Hybrid grass along with the other manures which is already in use.\r\nMATERIALS AND METHODS\r\nA filed experiments were conducted to study the effect of different organic fertilizers on growth and yield of Cumbu Napier Hybrid grass at Post Graduate Research Institute in Animal Sciences, Tamil Nadu Veterinary and Animal Sciences University during the year 2019-20. The experiments were laid out in Randomised Block Design with three replication in main and ratoon crops. The soil was clay loam with available NPK of 28, 30 and 290 kg/ha respectively. The pH of the soil was 6.21 and EC of 0.08 at a depth of 0 - 20 cm.\r\nThe treatments were fixed with different manure as well as doses based on the recommended NPK for Cumbu Napier hybrid grass @150 - 50 - 40 kg ha-1. For this study, composted rabbit manure (adult New Zealand White) along with cow dung, pig and poultry manures were used. The faces of livestock and rabbits were collected and composted. Nitrogen, phosphorus and potassium content was analysed by using following methods. For nitrogen AOAC (2010), phosphorus spectrophotometric molybdenum blue method (Fiske, 1925) and potassium using flame photometer 40 m2 plots area were selected for each treatment. Rabbit manure from PGRIAS Kattupakkam has been analysed separately and based on the analysis, NPK equivalency of manure was worked out for cumbunapier hybrid grass.\r\nStatistical analysis: The observations such as plan height , number of tillers per hill, cutting frequency, and biomass yield were tabulated. Statistical analysis was carried out by Gomez and Gomez method (Gomez and Gomez 1984).\r\nNPK equivalence. In organic farming system, organic manure is the important component. PGRIAS is an organic farm, the organic manures such as Farm yard manure, Sheep and Goat manure, Poultry manure and rabbit manure are being applied to fodder crops regularly. The NPK requirement of important fodder crop like Cumbu Napier Hybrid grass is 150kg N, 50kg P and 50 kg K the equivalent manures are worked out hereunder. \r\nRESULT AND DISCUSSION\r\nThe following observations were made to find the effect of rabbit manure application on cumbunapier hybrid grass application. Plant height, number of tillers, tiller weight and biomass yield were recorded, analysed and tabulated.\r\nSignificant variations in plant height were observed among the different treatments. The highest plant height (94.1 and 94.0cm) was observed with 100 percent rabbit manure application (T3) which is onpar with the treatments T1 and T2 in first and second crops respectively. The next best treatments are 100 % application of farmyard manure (T7), pig manure (T8) and poultry manure (T9) and inorganic fertiliser (T10). Plant height is verymuch reduced during the initial days of observation of both the crops (61.1 and 65.1) in control (T11) and it was continued during the later stages of observations also.\r\nSignificant variations in number of tillers were observed among the different treatments. The highest tiller number was observed in the treatment T3 which was followed by T1, T2, T7, T8, T9 and T10. The other treatmens were next best treatments. The highest tiller number of 17 and 21 were observed in T3 of first and second crop respectively.This was is onpar with T1 and T2 which is the higher doses of rabbit manure. The same trend was also continues during the second crop observation. Number of tillers were reduced in control plot of treatmen T12 in both the crops.\r\nTiller weight is significantly varied among the treatments which is the main criteria for yield assessment. Thetiller weight was higher in rabbit manure application. (T3). This was followed by application of rabbit manure at higher doses and other treatments viz., FYM application (T7), pig manure (T8) and poultry manure application (T9) which is onpar with the treatments T1 and T2 in first and second crops. Likewise other paramenters such as tiller weight was also reduced in control.\r\nAmong the treatments (T3) application of 100 percent rabbit manure performed significantly higher yield compared to all other treatments in both the crops. The highest yield of (438.1 and 405.4) were observed in first and second crops respectively. This is on par with the higher doses of rabbit manure application of T1 and T2. The next best treatments like application of FYM, pig manure, poultry manure were recorded significantly lower biomass yield compared to the treatments. Lower yields were recorded in lower doses of rabbit manure. Control plot recorded the lowest biomass yield of 247.1 and 231.8 tonnes respectively in the first and second crop. \r\nThe increased plant growth parameters such as plant height, tiller number and tiller weight is noticed in application of rabbit manure. This could be due top soil microflora nourishment and retention of soil moisture which enhance the soil fertility and improves the soil physical properties such as soil aeration and improves the organic carbon content. The same result was obtained in the study conducted by Dejene et al. (2011).\r\nRajendran et al. (2019) reported that nitrogen, phosphorus and potassium content in the faces of rabbits increased the uptake and availability of nutrients. The highest plant height, number of tillers and tiller weight in turn increased vegetative growth of crops and biomass yield in the treatment T3. This could be attributed due to increased uptake of nutrients by the crop, as well as availability of nutrients and reduce the losses to the atmosphere as reported by Kirchmann (1985); Eghball et al. (1997). Build up of phosphorus through application of organic manure results in enhanced mineralization of organic phosphate and production of organic acids and increased nutrient availability (Virekanandan and Fixen 1990). Biomass yield could be increased by the addition of organic manure especially in rabbit manure applied plots (Rajendran et. al., 2019). Application of rabbit manure enhanced the nutrient availability especially nitrogen and phosphorus. Since the nitrogen content of rabbit manure was 4.2 percent, supply of enough quantity of nitrogen by minimum quantity of organic manure application. Enhanced N nutrition, which increased the photosynthetic capacity of the crop, thus resulting in more assimilates being partitioned to the various plant parts which consequently influenced the growth of the crop (Kling and Edmeades 1997). Application of rabbit manure would also result in higher plant growth due to enhanced nitrogen level and reduced level of leaching of phosphorus. During the second crop, best treatment performs still better due to long term soil fertility management and sustainable soil physical properties.\r\n In other treatments the either in lower doses of rabbit manure application and other organic manure the biomass yield was reduced significantly due to lower availability of nutrients especially nitrogen and phosphorus. In inorganic fertilizer applied plots the yield were significantly reduced especially during second crop this might be due to continuous application of NPK fertilizer through in organic source experienced leaching of nutrients which can lead to deficiency of some micro nutrient elements, which results in poor quality of soil. Yield reduction is due to unavailability of nutrients in inorganic fertilizer applied plots. Further, this might be due to leaching losses, deterioration of soil chemical and physical properties, biological activities and total soil health. During both the crops control plots recorded reduced yield due to unavailability of nutrients and reduction of competitive nature of crops. Unavailability of nutrients reduced photosynthesis rate. Further due to reduction in competitive nature reduced the yield due to increased weed competition.\r\n','M. Suganthi, S. Usha and M. Murugan (2022). Effect of Rabbit Manure on Productive Performance of Flip of Fodder Grass - Cumbu Napier Hybrid. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 14(2a): 333-338.'),(5158,'134','Effect of Ethanol and Sucrose on Extending vase Life of Carnation Cut Flower cv. Bizet','Jasleen Kaur and Thaneshwari*','56 Effect of Ethanol and Sucrose on Extending vase Life of Carnation Cut Flower cv. Bizet Jasleen Kaur.pdf','',1,'Carnation is an important cut flower having great economic importance in floricultural industry due to its excellent post-harvest quality parameters. Vase life is an important trait in carnation which increases its economic value. As carnation is susceptible to ethylene therefore in order to increase its vase life use of different pulsing solutions like ethanol and sucrose was done in a study conducted during 2021-2022 in order to find out the effect of different concentration of ethanol and sucrose as pulsing solution on vase life of carnation cv. ‘Bizet’ at Horticulture laboratory, Department of Horticulture, School of Agriculture, LPU, Punjab. In this experiment, seven pulsing solutions, viz; T1: control (distilled water), T2: 10% sucrose + 0% ethanol, T3: 10% sucrose + 4% ethanol, T4: 10% sucrose + 8% ethanol, T5: 15% sucrose + 0% ethanol, T6: 15% sucrose + 4% ethanol, T7: 15% sucrose + 8% ethanol with 3 replications were evaluated incompletely randomized design. Maximum increase in flower stem weight (8.49g) and flower diameter (9.81 cm) was observed in treatment T7 (i.e., when pulsed with 15% sucrose + 8% ethanol) on 18th day of pulsing and was found to be statistically superior than all other treatment. Maximum amount of water uptake (37.50 ml) was observed in treatment T7 on 20th day of pulsing. Maximum vase life (21.56 days) was also observed in treatment T7 and was found to be statistically at par with treatment T6 (21.12 days) i.e., when treated with 15 % sucrose + 4% ethanol. In this experiment treatment 7th was found to be superior which increased the vase life of carnation.','Carnation, Ethanol, Pulsing, Sucrose, Vase life.','CONCLUSION \r\nIn accordance with the above results, it can be concluded that pulsing of carnation cv. ‘Bizet’ with ethanol and sucrose for 24 hours in solution comprising of 15 % sucrose + 8% ethanol improved all post-harvest parameters and can be recommended for increasing vase life of carnation. The combination of sucrose and ethanol was found to be effective pulsing solution for carnation cv. Bizet because it tremendously increased vase life and helped in preserving flower freshness and color during transportation besides improving all other quality parameters. Future course of action in improving vase life of carnation cv. Bizet can be carried out by focusing on the use of silver nanoparticle, essential oils and germicide as it was recently reported that Carbon nanotubes in the holding solution stimulate flower opening and prolong vase life in carnation (Ahmadi-Majd et al., 2022).\r\n','INTRODUCTION\r\nDianthus caryophyllus commonly known as carnation belongs to family Caryophyllaceae. This flower is a symbol of passion and desire and it is the national flower of Spain. It is an important cut flower owing to its excellent keeping quality, ability to withstand long-distance transport, wide range of forms and ability to rehydrate after shipping therefore being preferred by flower growers of exporting countries as compared to other flowers (Nowak and Rudnicki 1990). However, carnation flower is susceptible to ethylene. Ethylene production is responsible for senescence in flowers and is an important signal for the onset of programmed cell death (PCD) of flowers (Sisler et al., 1983; Buanong et al., 2006). Various inhibitors of ethylene production play an important role in improving the vase life and delaying the PCD in cut carnation flowers (Van Staden, 1995; Zhou et al., 2005). Ethanol is an inhibitor of both ethylene synthesis and action which helps in inhibiting sensitivity to ethylene, inhibits ethylene action, and inhibits ethylene biosynthesis (Van Doorn, 2002; Hashemabadiet al., 2021). Sucrose provides energy, controls water balance, delays ethylene production thus reduces ethylene sensitivity and maintains flower freshness. Present experiment was conducted to in order to find out the effect of different concentration of sucrose and ethanol as a pulsing solution on vase life of carnation. \r\nMATERIAL AND METHODS\r\nThe experiment entitled “Effect of ethanol and sucrose on extending vase life of carnation cut flower” was conducted with completely randomized design consisting of 7 treatments and 3 replications in Horticulture laboratory, Department of horticulture, School of Agriculture, Lovely professional university, Punjab during 2021-2022. The cut stem of carnation cv. ‘Bizet’ was collected at paint brush stage and their stem was recut at 40cm height and the basal two pair of leaves was removed in laboratory and their initial weight was taken by using weighing balance. After which initial flower diameter was also recorded with the help of scale. Then these carnations cut flower stems were kept in solutions of ethanol and sucrose in an initial volume of 300ml for 24hrs where the concentrations were different for each treatment. The treatments were: T1-control (distilled water), T2-10% sucrose + 0% ethanol, T3-10% sucrose + 4% ethanol, T4-10% sucrose + 8% ethanol, T5-15% sucrose + 0% ethanol, T6-15% sucrose + 4% ethanol, T7-15% sucrose + 8% ethanol. After 24hrs the carnation stems were transferred to a uniform vase solution of 5% sucrose + citric acid 200ppm in an initial volume of 300ml. Any changes in the carnation stem were regularly evaluated at regular intervals. Parameters like flower weight (at an interval of 3 days), flower diameter (at an interval of 3 days), water uptake (at an interval of 5 days), bent neck, vase life, and petal color were taken into consideration and accordingly the results were obtained. The data generated was subjected to statistical analysis by using WASP (web Agri stat package) software by ICAR.\r\nRESULT AND DISCUSSION\r\nA. Effect of different concentration of ethanol and sucrose as a pulsing solution on increase in carnation flower stem weight (gm) \r\nData presented in Table 1, revealed that maximum increase in flower stem weight was observed in treatment T7 (8.49g on 18th day of pulsing), when pulsed with 15% sucrose + 8% ethanol which was found to be statistically superior to all other treatments and increase was seen gradually on consecutive days i.e., on 3rd, 6th, 9th, 12th, 15th, 18th, day after pulsing. Minimum increase in flower stem weight on 15th day of pulsing was observed in treatment T1 (4.65g), when carnation was simply treated with distilled water. After which there was decrease in flower stem weight. While the increase in flower stem weight was found to statistically at par in treatment T5 and T6, when carnation was pulsed with 15% sucrose + 0% ethanol and 15% sucrose + 4% ethanol respectively; on 15th days after pulsing. It was observed that after 15th day of pulsing (in treatments T1, T2, T3, T4, T5, T6) and after 18th of pulsing (in treatment T7) decrease in flower stem weight was there which may be due to vase life of carnation coming to an end.\r\nSucrose promoted bud opening much faster in treatment T7 as compared to when they were kept in control i.e., distilled water. Sucrose helped in supplying of substrates for respiration and provided energy thus increasing flower metabolism which helps in increasing vase life and helping cut flowers harvested at bud stage to open, which otherwise would not occur naturally (Pun and Ichimura 2003; Ichimura et al., 2022). Maximum increase in flower stem weight as seen in treatment T7 and gradual increase in flower stem weight from treatment T1 to treatment T7 may be due to maximum water uptake and maintenance of water balance. Sucrose also contributed to increase in flower stem weight as it helped in providing energy to cut stem. Ethanol helped in decreasing ethylene production as it acts an antimicrobial agent thus helping in inhibiting any microbial growth and preventing bacterial plugging of water conducting tissues and therefore there is maximum increase in fresh flower weight in treatment T7 having more concentration of ethanol as compare to other treatments. Citric acid on the other hand also helped in increasing water conductance in xylem of cut carnation thus increasing fresh flower stem weight and improving vase life.\r\nB. Effect of different concentration of ethanol and sucrose as a pulsing solution on increase in flower diameter (cm)\r\nData presented in Table 2, revealed that maximum increase in flower diameter was observed in treatment T7 (9.81 cm on 18th day of pulsing), when pulsed with 15% sucrose + 8% ethanol which was found to be statistically superior to all other treatments and increase was seen gradually on consecutive days i.e., on 3rd, 6th, 9th, 12th, 15th day after pulsing. Minimum increase in flower diameter was observed in treatment T1 (5.16cm on 15th day of pulsing), when carnation was simply kept in distilled water. After which there was decrease in flower diameter. While the increase in flower diameter was found to statistically at par in treatment T3 and T2, when carnation was pulsed with 10% sucrose + 4% ethanol and 10% sucrose + 0% ethanol respectively; on 6th and 9th days after pulsing. It was observed that after 15th day of pulsing (in treatments T1, T2, T3, T4, T5, T6) and after 18th of pulsing (in treatment T7) decrease in flower diameter was there which may be due to vase life of carnation coming to an end.\r\nPresence of sucrose and carbohydrates help in opening of flower bud which otherwise could not open naturally (Pun and Ichimura 2003). Essential substrate are provided by sucrose for respiration, structural material and carbon skeletons for opening of bud and thus increasing flower diameter gradually (Mayak et al., 1973; Krause et al., 2021). Sucrose promotes cell expansion and petals markedly mark outwards (Norikoshi et al., 2016) as compared to control treatment where no sucrose was present. On the other hand presence of ethanol and citric acid helped in reducing any microbial activity and ethylene production which might be helpful in enhancing flower opening and flower diameter. Germicides and sucrose together in right concentrations can be helpful in enhancing flower opening and diameter as seen Antirrhinum (Asrar, 2012) and Rose (Norikoshi et al., 2016).\r\nC. Effect of different concentration of ethanol and sucrose as pulsing solution on amount of water uptake (ml) by carnation flower cut stem \r\nData presented in Table 3, revealed that maximum amount of water uptake was observed in treatment T7 (37.50 ml on 20th day of pulsing), when pulsed with 15% sucrose + 8% ethanol which was found to be statistically superior to all other treatments and increase was seen gradually on consecutive days i.e., 5th, 10th, 15th and 20th days after pulsing. Minimum amount of water uptake was observed in treatment T1 (1.06 ml on 5th day of pulsing and 33.16 ml on 20th day of pulsing), when carnation was simply kept in distilled water. While the amount of water uptake was found to be statistically at par in treatment T7 and T6, when carnation was pulsed with 15% sucrose + 8% ethanol and 15% sucrose + 4% ethanol respectively; on 15th days after pulsing.\r\nSucrose helps in maintaining the water balance, turgidity (Chaudhary and Khanal 2018) and helps in absorbing more water by lowering of osmotic potential of flower tissues thus improving the amount of water uptake (Wani et al., 2009). On the other hand, ethanol and citric acid acted as successful germicide inhibiting vascular blockage caused by various micro-organisms and thus avoiding any proliferation of bacteria and improving water uptake. It was observed that after 20th day of pulsing there was gradual decline in amount of water uptake which may be due to proliferation of microbes, air embolism of cut stems and plant reaction to wounding (Tsegaw et al., 2011).\r\nD. Effect of different concentration of ethanol and sucrose as pulsing solution on vase life of carnation\r\nData presented in Table 4, revealed that maximum vase life was observed in treatment T7 (21.56 days), when pulsed with 15% sucrose + 8% ethanol which was found to be statistically at par with T6 (21.12 days) when treated with 15 % sucrose + 4% ethanol. Minimum vase life was observed in treatment T1 (18.60 days), when carnation was simply kept in distilled water. Treatment T7 had the longer vase life which was justified from the fact that ethanol was effective in increasing the vase life of carnation by inhibiting ethylene biosynthesis in carnation flowers (Wu et al., 1992). On the other hand, both ethanol and citric acid helps in controlling microorganism’s activity thus preventing any vascular blockage, maintaining better water absorption, preventing any water stress and wilting of petals therefore increasing vase life. Also, once the vascular blockage is avoided by the use of ethanol, sucrose then facilitates higher intake of water and accumulation of total soluble sugars in petal cells by enhancing osmotic driving force for uptake of solution, thus increasing vase life. These findings were supported by studies of Nagarajuna et al. (2002); Hutchinson et al. (2003) in tuberose and Nijasure et al. (2004) in gladiolus.\r\n','Jasleen Kaur and Thaneshwari (2022). Effect of Ethanol and Sucrose on Extending vase Life of Carnation Cut Flower cv. Bizet. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 14(2a): 339-343.'),(5159,'134','Genetic Analysis of Diverse Greengram (Vigna radiata L.) Genotypes for Combining Ability and Gene Action for Yield and its Associated Traits','H. Nandini*, K. Parimala, K. Rukmini Devi, Ch. Anuradha and C.V. Sameer Kumar','57 Genetic Analysis of Diverse Greengram _Vigna radiata L._ Genotypes for Combining Ability and Gene Action for Yield and its Associated Traits H. Nandini.pdf','',1,'The studies on combining ability and its interrelationships in cultivated greengram (Vigna radiata L.) can help in improving the decade old yield stagnation. The present investigation was undertaken in 18 F1’s derived out of line × tester mating design using six lines and three testers. Analysis of variance for combining ability revealed significant differences due to genotypes, parents and crosses indicating the existence of wider variability in the material. The results revealed that sca variance was relatively greater in magnitude than gca variance for the traits, days to 50% flowering, number of branches plant-1, number of clusters plant-1, number of pods plant-1 and harvest index indicating that these traits were predominantly governed by non-additive gene action. The characters viz., days to maturity, plant height, number of pods cluster-1, pod length, number of seeds pod-1, 100-seed weight and seed yield plant-1 exhibited greater gca variance than sca variance which indicated that additive gene action was involved in the expression of these characters. Among the parents, LGG-460, IPM-409-4, VBN(Gg)2, IPM-205-7, IPM-410-3 and IC-251786 were found to be good general combiners for seed yield and some of its component traits. These parents could be utilized in future breeding programme for development of high yielding genotypes. On the basis of sca effects, the cross combinations, MGG-347×IC-251786, VBN(Gg)2×IPM-2-14, IPM-205-7×IPM-2-14, IPM-409-4×IC-251786 and VBN(Gg)2×IPM-410-3 were considered as best specific combiners for seed yield and most of the yield attributes. Further these crosses could be advanced for selection of superior transgressive segregants.','Greengram, Combining ability, Line × Tester analysis, Gene action, gca, sca and Yield components','From the study it can be inferred that, LGG-460 and IPM-409-4 were found to be the best general combiners for yield and other yield attributing traits. These parental lines could be used in future breeding programmes to realize high yielding crosses as well as for development of transgressive segregants. The crosses IPM-205-7×IPM-2-14, MGG-347×IC-251786 and IPM-409-4×IC-251786 were identified as superior for seed yield and yield components. Hence desirable segregants from these crosses can be exploited to develop high yielding greengram cultivars for different agro ecologies. ','INTRODUCTION\r\nGreengram is one of the major short duration pulse crops with wider adaptability. India is the leading producer of the crop globally and is grown in almost all parts of the country. In India, greengram is cultivated in an area of 51.30 lakh ha with total production and productivity of 30.85 lakh tonne and 601 kg ha-1 respectively (INDIASTAT, 2020-21). The major greengram growing states are Rajasthan, Karnataka, Maharashtra, Madhya Pradesh and Odisha. The present production of greengram is not sufficient to meet the requirements, the lower productivity is mainly attributed to low genetic yield potentiality, indeterminate growth habit, canopy architecture, cultivation in marginal land and biotic stresses. Thus, there is an immediate need to increase production and productivity for food and nutritional security and to combat protein energy malnutrition, which requires efforts to enhance the genetic yield potential of the existing varieties by restructuring their plant type. In order to accomplish this, combining ability analysis will provide the information to identify desirable parents and the genetic construction of the crosses. It also offers information about the nature of gene action and the relative magnitude of fixable and non-fixable genetic variances, which can be used to select superior parents for crossing programmes and to develop superior varieties with desirable characters (Kohakade et al. 2021). Keeping in view of the above the present study was undertaken to evaluate nine parents and eighteen hybrids through line × tester analysis with regard to the nature of gene action controlling various quantitative traits in terms of combining ability which will be used for setting suitable selection criteria.\r\nMATERIAL AND METHODS\r\nThe experimental material consists of six genotypes of greengram as lines (MGG-295, MGG-347, LGG-460, IPM-409-4, VBN(Gg)2 and IPM-205-7) and three genotypes as testers (IPM-2-14, IPM-410-3, IC-251786). Each entry was sown in five rows of 4m length with two staggered sowings during kharif, 2021. Crosses were effected in line × tester mating design and the seed of 18 hybrids was obtained.\r\nThe parents along with hybrids were evaluated during rabi, 2021-22 in Randomized Block Design with three replications to study the gene action and combining ability for yield and its attributing traits. Each entry was sown in 3 rows of 3m length in each replication, seeds were dibbled with a spacing of 30 cm between rows and 10 cm between plants. The recommended package of practices and need based plant protection measures were taken up. \r\nObservations were recorded in ten randomly selected plants both in parents and hybrids on days to 50% flowering, days to maturity, plant height, number of branches plant-1, number of clusters plant-1, number of pods cluster-1, number of pods plant-1, pod length, number of seeds pod-1, 100-seed weight, seed yield plant-1 and harvest index. The data was subjected to the analysis of variance as per the method suggested by Panse and Sukhatme (1985) to test the differences between the genotypes for all the characters and combining ability analysis was carried out according to the method given by Kempthorne (1957).\r\nRESULTS AND DISCUSSION\r\nThe analysis of variance revealed the existence of significant differences among the genotypes for the characters studied, which indicates the presence of considerable amount of variation in the material under study. Analysis of variance for combining ability revealed that, there was significant difference among the genotypes studied (Table 1). Parents exhibited significant differences for all the traits, indicating the presence of greater diversity among the parents under study, except for the trait number of pods cluster-1. Crosses showed significant differences for all the traits studied, indicating the varying performance of cross combinations. Parents vs. crosses registered significant differences for the traits, days to maturity, plant height, number of branches plant-1, number of clusters plant-1, number of pods cluster-1, number of pods plant-1, 100-seed weight, seed yield plant-1 and harvest index, indicating the presence of considerable amount of average heterosis in the hybrids for these traits. The line × tester effects were significant for all the traits except for days to maturity and pod length, which indicated that hybrids differed significantly in their sca effects.\r\nThe ratio of GCA/SCA variances revealed that, both additive and non-additive genetic components of variation played important role in expression of the characters studied (Table 2). The sca variances were higher than gca variances for five traits studied viz., days to 50% flowering, number of branches plant-1, number of clusters plant-1, number of pods plant-1 and harvest index which indicated the predominance of non-additive gene action, therefore the hybrid breeding programme is more appropriate for the improvement of these traits. The earlier researchers, Prasad et al. (2015), Bhavani et al. (2016); Singh et al. (2016); Vaidya et al. (2016); Kumar et al. (2017); Latha et al. (2018); Kohakade et al. (2021) also reported non-additive gene action for those characters. Whereas the traits such as days to maturity, plant height, number of pods cluster-1, pod length, number of seeds pod-1, 100-seed weight and seed yield plant-1 were governed by additive gene action which is evident from greater magnitude of gca variance than sca variance. Additive gene action for these traits were also reported by Khaimiccho et al. (2016); Vaidya et al. (2016); Eswaran et al. (2017); Latha et al. (2018); Nath et al. (2018); Abinaya et al. (2020).\r\nBased on the gca effects, the lines LGG-460, IPM-409-4, VBN(Gg)2, IPM-205-7 and the testers IPM-410-3, IC-251786 showed significant superiority and these were identified as good general combiners for yield and its attributing traits (Table 3). Among the six lines studied, the line LGG-460 was found to be most promising and it showed desirable gca effect for seed yield plant-1 and its yield components such as plant height, number of branches plant-1, number of clusters plant-1, number of pods cluster-1, number of pods plant-1, pod length and number of seeds pod-1. The next best line was IPM-409-4 which registered good gca effect for seed yield and some of its component traits. The lines VBN(Gg)2 and IPM-205-7 exhibited positive gca effect for one or more yield components. The tester IC-251786 was found to be promising for plant height (1.546), 100-seed weight (0.395) and harvest index (0.615). The trait number of clusters plant-1 was recorded high in IPM-410-3 (0.267). These parents could be utilized in future breeding programme for development of high yielding genotypes. \r\nWith regard to specific combining ability the crosses viz., IPM-205-7×IPM-2-14, VBN(Gg)2×IPM-2-14, MGG-347×IC-251786, MGG-347×IPM-410-3, MGG-295×IPM-2-14, IPM-409-4×IC-251786, VBN(Gg)2 × IPM-410-3, LGG-460×IC-251786, MGG-347×IPM-2-14, IPM-409-4×IPM-2-14, IPM-205-7×IC-251786, MGG-295×IPM-410-3 and VBN(Gg)2×IC-251786 were considered as good specific combiners for yield and some of its component characters (Table 4). The crosses viz., IPM-205-7 × IPM-2-14 (0.792), MGG-347 × IC-251786 (0.709) and IPM-409-4×IC-251786 (0.438) were considered as potential cross combinations for seed yield. In addition to seed yield these crosses showed superior positive sca effect for number of branches plant-1, number of clusters plant-1, number of pods plant-1, harvest index. These cross combinations could be further exploited through heterosis breeding or selection of superior transgressive segregants through recombination breeding. \r\nThe present study also confirmed that some of the parents having significant positive gca effects for seed yield plant-1 also exhibited positive gca effects for one or more of yield contributing traits. Based on per se performance, sca effects and gca status, five crosses viz., IPM-205-7×IPM-2-14, MGG-347×IC-251786, IPM-409-4×IC-251786, VBN(Gg)2×IPM-410-3 and VBN(Gg)2×IPM-2-14 were considered as promising for seed yield plant-1. Similar results of significant association of mean performance and general combining ability and it’s importance in selection of the parents were also reported by Kumar et al. (2017). \r\n','H. Nandini, K. Parimala, K. Rukmini Devi, Ch. Anuradha and C.V. Sameer Kumar (2022). Genetic Analysis of Diverse Greengram (Vigna radiata L.) Genotypes for Combining Ability and Gene Action for Yield and its Associated Traits. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 14(2a): 344-348.'),(5160,'134','Effect of Sulphite in Drying characteristics and Nutritional Aspects of Sun, Solar and Tray dried Tomato Slices','P.L. Meenakshi*, G.Amuthaselvi, P. Rajkumar, G. Gurumeenakshi','58 Effect of Sulphite in Drying characteristics and Nutritional Aspects of Sun, Solar and Tray dried Tomato Slices P.L. Meenakshi.pdf','',1,'Tomato being a climacteric fruit has short storage life under ambient storage conditions. Processing into other forms not only ensures efficient product utilization, but also ensures product availability year round. Drying is a cheap and one of the prime methods of processing, where the dried tomato is converted into powder and further incorporated in various cuisines, seasonings and in the dehydrated form along with other vegetables. Sun and solar drying has shown negative effect on the final dried product by undesirable blackening effect and microbial infestation. Besides these, the availability of sunlight had a huge impact in sun and solar drying process. Unpredictability in weather and non-uniform drying led to the use of mechanical dryers. Mechanical dryers like tray driers can not only provide faster drying rates but also reduce the chances of contamination. Use of pre-treatments like sulphiting not only inhibits the growth of microbiota, but also prevents oxidation and maintains color and flavor of the dried product. Care was taken that should the sulphite level do not exceed the given limit as prescribed by FSSAI. The effect of sulphite pre-treatment in drying rate, colour retention and nutritional retention is the main idea behind this study. In this research, a comparison of untreated and sulphite pre-treated samples of tomato slices by sun, solar and tray drying was studied and concurrently drying characteristics and nutritional analysis were performed. ','Tomato slices, Drying, Drying characteristics, Sulphite, Nutritional analysis','Sulphite pre-treatment had a positive impact in color of the dried slices and had maintained the nutritional value up to certain extent. Among the three drying methods, tray drying came out to be the best in contrast to solar and sun drying. In tray drying, the sulphited tomato slices was comparable to untreated sample. Pre-treatment with 0.2% potassium meta- bisulphite for 10 minute followed by tray drying can provide good quality dehydrated tomato slices. As a result, sulphite pre-treated tomato slices subjected to tray drying can be a good solution to obtain a quality dried product. However, the level of sulphite added should be kept keen as it has potential health hazards, especially for people with asthma and respiratory issues.','INTRODUCTION\r\nTomato is one of the prominent vegetables across the globe. As per FAOSTAT (2010), tomato is the world\'s second most produced vegetable, with yearly output surpassing 100 million tons (Farag et al., 2016).Tomato is the second most widely grown horticulture product, and the top in terms of industrialized volume (Filho et al., 1996; Bashir et al., 2014). Tomatoes are abundant in minerals, vitamins C and E, lycopene, phenolic flavonoids, and carotenoids, along with other nutrients and phytochemical constituents (Giovanelli and Paradiso 2002; Kalogeropoulos et al., 2012; Maiman et al., 2021). Being a perishable commodity, tomato can be processed further to extend shelf life and make it available year round.\r\nOne of the most popular techniques for prolonging the shelf life of perishable wet products, lowering transportation and storage costs, and limiting quality loss is to dry those (Nazghelichi et al., 2010). Drying diminishes moisture content as well as water activity, limiting microbiological growth (bacteria, yeasts, and molds) and oxidative and enzymatic reactions begetting product with safe storage and improved product shelf life (Sokhansanj and Jayas 1995; Sagar and Suresh 2010; Fernandes et al., 2011; Beuchat et al., 2013; Maiman et al., 2021). When sun drying was utilized to dry tomatoes, resulting in lower-quality goods. The fruit tissue dries, darkens and develops a distinct flavor (Gupta and Nath 1984; Bashir et al., 2014). Various chemicals have been employed as pre-treatments for drying of tomatoes, namely sodium chloride, potassium meta-bisulphite (KMS), calcium chloride, and sucrose (Lewicki et al., 2002; Davoodi et al., 2007; Souza et al., 2007; Marfil et al., 2008; Farag et al., 2016). Solar dryers have emerged to save energy and retain product quality. Solar dryers also employ a non-conventional and sustainable energy source of energy (Belessiotis and Delyannis, 2011; Maiman et al., 2021). To meet the demands of consumer, a solar dryer can not only dry a product quickly and uniformly but can also perform these under hygienic conditions (Condorı et al., 2001). The influence of solar tunnel drying on the antioxidant and physicochemical characteristics of tropical fruits mango, banana, and papaya was investigated, and it was shown that solar tunnel drying enhanced the fruit\'s physicochemical and antioxidant properties while slightly lowering the vitamin C content (Abrol et al., 2014; Maiman et al., 2021). Mechanical dryers like tray dryers (convective dryers) are extensively used for the purpose of drying fruits (Nijhuis et al., 1998). This method is superior to solar drying since it uses a confined environment with controlled airflow and temperature. It is also a very efficient and simple process, although it is energetically ineffective (Radojčin et al., 2021).\r\nThis study focuses on drying characteristics and nutritional aspects of untreated and pre-treated (0.2% KMS) sun dried, solar dried and tray dried tomato slices.\r\nMATERIALS AND METHODS\r\nA. Materials\r\nFresh, whole, ripe tomatoes of almost similar size were purchased from a local market in Coimbatore, Tamil Nadu. Food grade KMS of Baker’s brand was purchased for the experiment. Rust-less sharp stainless steel knives and potable water were used for slicing and soaking the tomatoes for pre-treatment.\r\nB. Methods\r\nThe purchased tomatoes of hybrid variety were washed under running tap water to remove adhering dirt on the surface. It was sliced manually to uniform thickness of 10 mm using rust-less stainless steel knife, followed by soaking in 0.2% KMS solution for 10 minute. One set of samples were sliced without pre-treatment and kept aside for sun and solar drying.\r\nDrying methods\r\nHot Air Oven. Hot air oven was used for estimating the initial moisture of tomato. 5 g of fresh tomato was kept in hot air oven at 105±1°C in a petri dish and reduction in weight was noted for every hour interval. This process was continued until constant weight was obtained.\r\nSun drying. Sliced tomatoes with and without pre-treatments were spread uniformly over aluminium trays and placed with maximum exposure of sun light. This experiment was performed during the month of December, from 9 am to 5 pm. The average temperature and relative humidity during the study was 29ºC and 52.2%. The drop in weight was noted for every one hour interval. The samples were dried until constant weight was obtained.\r\nSolar drying. Compound parabolic collector (CPC) based solar dryer available in Renewable Energy Department of Tamil Nadu Agricultural University was used in this study. The temperature and relative humidity throughout the drying process varied based on the solar intensity. Temperature and relative humidity was noted using a digital hygrometer. The lowest and the highest temperature were 23.64ºC and 61.33ºC. The lowest and the highest relative humidity were 19.07% and 29.51%.Reduction in weight for both samples with and without pre-treatments was noted for every hour interval. The samples were dried until constant weight was obtained.\r\nTray drying. Trays of the tray dryer were loaded and the slices were equally spaced for better air circulation. The temperature was set to 60ºC and the blower fan was switched on for uniform distribution of hot air throughout the chamber. Fresh samples and pre-treated slices of tomato were dried and the experiment was performed for every 15 minute interval until constant weight of tomatoes was obtained.\r\nC. Nutritive analysis\r\nThe prescribed AOAC (2005) methods for nutritive analysis of dehydrated vegetables have been used in this experiment.\r\nRESULTS AND DISCUSSION\r\nA. Drying rate curves\r\nTo understand the effect of sulphited pre-treatment on various drying methods, drying rate curves were studied. The drying rate curves of sun drying, solar drying and tray drying are illustrated in Fig. 1, 2 and 3 respectively. From the figures, it can be seen that pre-\r\ntreated samples had faster drying rates compared to the untreated samples in all three methods of drying. Tray drying had the least drying time of about 3 hour, followed by solar drying which took nearly 400 minute (6.6 hour) and the most time consuming drying process being sun drying consuming 7 hour.\r\nB. Nutritional aspects\r\nAll the pre-treated samples were subjected to nutritive analysis following AOAC (2005) procedures and were compared to fresh sample. The results of the analysis are tabulated in Table 1.\r\nFrom the analysis, it was inferred that tray dried tomato slices had better nutrient retention in comparison to sun and solar drying. In an overall view, there has been a nutrient depletion, with the least degradation in sulphited tray dried samples of tomato. \r\nIn the context of moisture content, the pre-treated samples had negligible moisture retention than the control samples. Prior to drying, the tomato\'s initial moisture level was found to be 93.2% wet basis (Idah et al., 2010). The moisture content for the fresh tomato was determined to be 92.5 percent, and after solar drying, it was significantly reduced to 3.95 percent (Maiman et al., 2021).\r\nThere has been a decrease in lycopene content in dried samples compared to the fresh tomato slices. Isomerization and oxidation (auto-oxidation) while processing are the main factors of lycopene degradation in tomatoes (Tan et al., 2021). Exposure to oxygen and heat had resulted in lycopene destruction (Shi et al., 1999). There was about 87% retention of lycopene in the sulphited tray dried sample and the least retention of lycopene was observed in untreated sun dried sample at 78%.\r\nAscorbic acid had significant reduction and this may be contributed to the fact this is a heat-labile vitamin. Due to the high heat sensitivity of vitamin C, the combination of drying temperature and duration influences how far the vitamin C is retained (Santos and Silva 2008). The action of sulphur dioxide, which inhibits endogenous enzymes such ascorbic acid oxidase, cytochrome oxidase, and peroxidase, may be the cause of the increased maintenance of vitamin C in KMS pretreatment samples compared to the control sample (Chapagain et al., 2018). Poor retention of vitamin C was obtained as done in previous studies, with the highest contribution of vitamin C contributed to solar dried sample having 44.7% as compared to the fresh sample.\r\nA negligible change in carbohydrate, protein, dietary fiber, calcium, iron and phosphorus content are observed for all the samples. Undesirable blackening effect and chances of microbial infestation are high in sun and solar drying due to the inability to maintain temperature and relative humidity throughout the drying process.\r\n','P.L. Meenakshi, G.Amuthaselvi, P. Rajkumar, G. Gurumeenakshi (2022). Effect of Sulphite in Drying characteristics and Nutritional Aspects of Sun, Solar and Tray dried Tomato Slices. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 14(2a): 349-353.'),(5161,'134','Natural Occurrence, Distribution and Isolation of Native Strains of Entomopathogenic Nematodes (Steinernematidae and Heterorhabditidae) in Vegetable Crops in Haryana, India','Deepak Kumar*, Anil Kumar, Prakash Banakar and Vinod Kumar','59 Natural Occurrence, Distribution and Isolation of Native Strains of Entomopathogenic Nematodes _Steinernematidae and Heterorhabditidae_ in Vegetable Crops in Haryana, India Deepak Kumar.pdf','',1,'Entomopathogenic nematodes (EPNs), Steinernematidae and Heterorhabditidae have a potential bio-control agents since these organisms have a wide range of geographic areas, soil types and are adapted to several hosts. They showed better performances over chemical and microbial insecticides. But for the better performances of EPNs, should be adapted to the local environmental conditions. The search for local EPN isolates though systematic survey is the first critical step in building an effective biological management program for insect pests. The populations of EPNs were isolated by ‘Galleria trap’ method from the soils around the roots of various crops in Haryana (Hisar, Jind, Panipat, Sonipat, Karnal, Mewat, Palwal and Fatehabad districts). A total of 160 soil samples were collected from the rhizosphere of different crops and were processed for the detection of EPNs by insect bait method, 40 samples (25%) were found to be positive for EPNs. Based on samples collected from different vegetable crops, the frequency of EPNs observed were chilli (40.0%), cucurbitaceae (31.1%), capsicum (33.3%) and tomato (27.6%). Out of 40 samples found positive for EPNs collected from various vegetable crops, the frequency of occurrence of Steinernematid and Heterorhabditid nematodes were 80 and 20 percent, respectively. Identification of EPNs was done at generic level (Heterorhabditis and Steinernema) based upon the colour of host cadaver. Galleria mellonella larvae infected with EPN of the genus Heterorhabditis may impart reddish-orange colouring while those infected with Steinernema, imparts grey-brown colouring. So, the bio-efficacy of EPNs proved better of native strains which already compatible to the same environment.','Distribution, Frequency, Isolation, Heterorhabditidae, Steinernematidae','The safest biocontrol agents, and a potential alternative to insecticides, are entomopathogenic nematodes. EPNs can be utilised on a number of crops because of their broad host range. However, only 40 of the 160 soil samples taken during the survey from various vegetable crops in Haryana detected entomopathogenic nematodes. The survival of Steinernema species and Heterorhabditis species emphasises the significance of carrying out more thorough surveys in Haryana.','INTRODUCTION\r\nCommercial production of entomopathogenic nematodes (EPNs) from the families Steinernematidae and Heterorhabditidae is used to manage insect pests biologically, especially for those that live in soil and cryptic environments. From various nations throughout the world, 21 species of Heterorhabditis and about 100 genuine species of Steinernema have been identified. But till now, only fifteen species of EPNs (12 for Steinernema and 3 for Heterorhabditis species) are recorded from different parts of India (Kumar et al., 2022). Identification of naturally adapted species in a particular location is crucial for EPN to be a successful biological pesticide (Stock et al., 1999). Surveys showed that, with the exception of Antarctica, these nematodes are present throughout the earth (Campos-Herrera et al., 2012). As a result of many surveys, numerous new species have been described, as well as numerous new isolates of previously described species. Entomopathogenic nematode research on Steinernema carpocapsae, S. glaseri, S. feltiae, and Heterorhabditis bacteriophora was started in India utilizing alien species and strains. However, the nematodes\' weak capacity to adapt in a strange environment is what caused the results to be so uneven (Kaya et al., 2006). Since then, surveys have been concentrated on identifying native species, leading to the recovery of a number of species and strains (Lalramliana and Yadav, 2010; Hussaini et al., 2001; Kulkarni et al., 2012; Bhat et al., 2017).\r\nIn the genera Xenorhabdus for steinernematids and Photorhabdus for heterorhabditids, these nematodes are linked to symbiotic bacteria. Once it has located an appropriate host, the infectious juvenile stage of the nematode enters it through a natural entrance and moves into the hemocoel. Then the associated bacteria quickly grow in insect hemocoel and cause septicemia, which kills the host within 24 to 72 hours. The nematodes start the development process, then eat the bacterial cells and tissues of the host until there are no more food supplies left in the host carcass. Finally, they appear in the soil as a fresh batch of infectious juveniles (IJs) looking for fresh hosts (Hazir et al., 2003). After two or three generations in the cadaver, the nematodes feed on the bacterial cells and host tissues before emerging as infectious juveniles into the soil environment. When they infect a new insect host, the infectious juveniles start the life cycle all over again (Kaya et al., 2006).\r\nThe main objective of this work is to isolate native EPN from the district of Haryana, India, a biodiversity hotspot location, in addition to analyzing the occurrence and their potential use as a biological control agent moving forward.\r\nMATERIALS AND METHODS\r\nDistrict surveyed: Hisar, Jind, Panipat, Sonipat, Karnal, Mewat, Palwal and Fatehabad districts of Haryana were surveyed for EPNs (Fig. 1).\r\nSoil sampling: From 2019 to 2022, soil samples were taken at random from a diversity of vegetable-growing regions in the districts of Haryana, India. A total of 160 samples, spanning around 8 districts, were taken from different sampling sites (Plate 1). Using a hand shovel, 5 subsamples from each site were obtained from a 20–25 cm depth and combined to obtain roughly 1 kg of composite samples (Orozco et al., 2014). The appropriate elevations and geographic coordinates were noted. For further processing, all soil samples were collected in polyethylene bags to avoid dehydration, proper tagged, sealed, and placed in boxes before being transported to the laboratory, Department of Nematology, College of Agriculture, CCS Haryana Agricultural University, Hisar.\r\nCulture of insects (Galleria mellonella): Entomopathogenic nematodes were isolated on greater wax moth, G. mellonella (Woodring and Kaya 1988). In a lab conditions, the larger wax moth culture was kept alive on an artificial diet. \r\nInsect-baiting and nematode culture: According to Bedding and Akhurst\'s original report (1975), insect-baiting was undertaken. Each glass bottles containing soil samples received ten G. mellonella larvae in their last instar, which were subsequently inserted and incubated at 25+2°C. Regular inspections were conducted on the samples to assess for successful insect infection and soil moisture. Until infective juveniles (IJs) emerged, all collected cadavers were cleaned with distilled water and placed in a White trap (White, 1927). Next, IJs were collected, cleaned, and kept in storage at 16+2°C. Re-inoculation of G. mellonella larvae was performed three times in order to get pure culture of the nematodes retrieved from the soil (Hoy et al., 2008).\r\nRESULTS AND DISCUSSION\r\nThe main objective of the current investigation was to identify native EPN species with excellent strains so that they may be used for successful bio-management of various insect pests in different parts of the state of Haryana. Eight districts were intended to obtain a total of 160 soil samples that represented various soil types and irrigation systems. These samples were then processed to the soil baiting technique with G. mellonella, a widely preferred host for isolating EPNs from soil. Out of 160 soil samples, 40 were found to have G. mellonella infestations with EPNs, according to the data. Out of 40 positive samples for EPNs, the eight soil samples taken from vegetable fields contained Heterorhabditis spp. which were identified based on the colour of the afflicted corpses, that turned brick red. Remaining 25 soil samples with positive EPNs results were determined to include Steinernema spp. based on the cadaver Galleria\'s grayish-white colour (Plate 3). \r\nAccording to data on the prevalence of EPNs acquired from eight districts in the state of Haryana (Table 1), the highest frequency of EPNs was found in Panipat (40.9%) followed by Hisar (37.5%) and Sonipat district (36.4%), while Fatehabad district had the lowest incidence of EPNs (20%). Mewat and Palwal districts were found to have no EPN prevalence. Following Jind, whose soil samples tested positive for EPNs in 30.4 percent of cases, was Karnal district, which had a 19.0 percent EPN presence. Six (Hisar, Jind, Panipat, Sonipat, Karnal, and Fatehabad) of the eight districts in Haryana state that were surveyed for the presence of EPNs were found to be positive for Steinernema spp., while five (Hisar, Jind, Panipat, Sonipat, and Fatehabad) were found to be positive for Heterorhabditis spp.\r\nOut of 160 soil samples, 45 came from cucurbitaceae crops, including 29 tomato, 23 brinjal, 18 okra, 11 potato, 7 carrot, 5 capsicum, 5 chilli, 5 onion, 4 cruciferous, 4 coriander and 3 garlic crop.\r\nBased on samples collected from different vegetable crops, the frequency of occurrence of EPNs were observed maximum in chilli (40.0%) followed by capsicum (33.3%) cucurbitaceae (31.1%), tomato (27.6%), brinjal (26.1%), cruciferous (25.0%), onion (20.0%), potato (18.2%), okra (16.7%) and carrot (14.3). Coriander and garlic crops were found with none EPNs frequency. Out of 40 samples found positive for EPNs collected from various vegetable crops, the frequency of occurrence of Steinernematid and Heterorhabditid nematodes were 80 and 20 percent, respectively (Table 2).\r\nThe aforementioned findings are consistent with those made by Uribe-Lorio et al. (2005). According to their findings, 20.50 percent of all soil samples tested positive for the presence of EPNs. In contrast, Barbosa-Negrisoli et al. (2010) and Myers et al. (2015) found entomopathogenic nematodes in 15.7 percent and 21 percent, respectively, of the soil samples. The conclusions of Hussaini et al. (2000) are likewise supported by the current findings. They noted that Andhra Pradesh has a diverse range of EPN species. The distribution and incidence of EPNs were reported by Sunanda et al. (2016) in 1.38 percent of all soil samples taken from the state of Telangana. Lalramliana and Yadav (2010), Singh et al. (2015), and Josephrajkumar and Sivakumar (1997) have also reported the prevalence and distribution of EPNs from various sources. Gowda et al., 2020 also recovered 3 soil samples containing EPNs out of 130 samples during a survey of Uttar Pradesh, India from 2016-2017 with frequency of 2.3 percent. Out of 200 soil samples collected from 40 soil sites in Thialand and found the prevalence of EPNs was 8.0 percent (Ardpairin et al., 2020).\r\nOut of 313 soil samples collected from different districts of Haryana during 2018-2021, 99 samples (31.6%) were found to be positive for the EPNs. Maximum frequencies of occurrence of EPNs was found in ber orchards (Steinernematid 65.6% and Heterorhabditid 34.4%), followed by sugarcane, wheat and cluster been, as only 71.1, 37.5, 35.7 and 35.3 percent, respectively (Kumar et al., 2021).\r\n','How to cite this article: Deepak Kumar, Anil Kumar, Prakash Banakar and Vinod Kumar (2022). Natural Occurrence, Distribution and Isolation of Native Strains of Entomopathogenic Nematodes (Steinernematidae and Heterorhabditidae) in Vegetable Crops in Haryana, India. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 14(2a): 354-359.'),(5162,'132','New records of myxomycetes (Amoebozoa) from\r\nColombia','Carlos Rojas, María Carolina García-Chaves','4_JNBR_11_1_2022.pdf','',1,'-','-','-','-','Rojas C, García-Chaves MC. 2022. New records of myxomycetes (Amoebozoa) from Colombia. J\r\nNew Biol Rep 11 (1): 10 – 15.'),(5163,'134','Concept on Plant DNA Barcodes and their Application in Identification of Plants','Vasa Dileep Reddy, Suhel Mehandi*, Harmeet S. Janeja, Kanak Saxena and Satya Prakash','60 Concept on Plant DNA Barcodes and their Application in Identification of Plants Suhel Mehandi.pdf','',1,'DNA barcoding is an reliable mechanism which utilizes the specific regions of DNA to identifiy plant species. Plant DNA barcodes such as rbcL, matK, trnH-psbA, and ITS2 have been produced and employed to answer fundamental problems in evolutionary biology and ecology over the last decade, but however none of the above listed loci work across entire species. In closely related Species, these single-locus DNA barcodes do not have enough variation, So many investigators have proposed a multi-locus strategy that allows for more species differentiation than single-locus strategies. Because of these constraints of single-locus strategies a new genome called complete chloroplast genome is used to differentiate closely related plants. Here, I review single-locus and multi-locus DNA barcodes, as well as methods for preparing DNA barcodes and the future outlook of DNA bar coding in plants.','DNA barcoding, single locus barcode, Multi locus Barcode, super barcode, DNA barcode library, plants','DNA barcoding is an reliable mechanism which utilizes the specific regions of DNA to identifiy plant species. Plant DNA barcodes such as rbcL, matK, trnH-psbA, and ITS2 have been produced and employed to answer fundamental problems in evolutionary biology and ecology over the last decade, but however none of the above listed loci work across entire species.','INTRODUCTION\r\nA critical task for any research ecologist, evolutionary biology scientist or any plant breeder is to determine the exact recognition of plant samples from a group of different types of plants samples. DNA barcodes,\" they say i.e., standardized small or short DNA sequences of 400 and 800 (base pair) long that can be easily obtained and described for all plant species on the earth, were created to make this work easier (Herbert et al., 2003). It is a technique which utilizes specific regions of DNA and internationally agreed protocols for species identification and to build a global database of biological organisms, and this also has the capability to speed up the findings of thousands of plant species (Cowan et al., 2006). The main purpose of DNA barcode is to create online libraries of all well-known species that can be used as a standard against which DNA barcodes from any unidentified or identified specimens may be easily matched and it can also help to solve some of the problems that come up with standard taxonomy identification based on morphological features. In May 2004, a (CBOL) consortium for the barcode of life was formed to enhance DNA barcoding applications for all eukaryotic species on the planet. More than 120 organizations from 45 countries are involved in this (CBOL) (Ratnasingham et al., 2007). \r\nDNA barcodes are initially planned and applied first for the recognition of animal species in the beginning years of this century (Hebert et al., 2004b). A uniform DNA barcode for plants, on the other hand, was not immediately effective and was not welcomed by the botanical group until several years later (Kress, 2011), DNA barcoding in plants is accepted after the remarkable inventory of plastid, nuclear and mitochondrial genomic regions (Kress et al.,2005; Chase et al., 2005; Lahaye et al., 2008; Kress and Erickson, 2007; New master et al., 2008). trnH-psbA, rbcL, matK and ITS are the four main gene areas utilized in DNA barcoding applications, and these are the conventional DNA barcodes of choice in most plant applications (China plant BOL group, 2011; CBOL plant working group, 2009; Li et al., 2015). Because of the significantly slower mutation rate in plants, the cytochrome c oxidase 1 (CO1) sequence does not discriminate in most of the plants, but it has been touted as a universal barcode in animals but does not discriminate in the plants (Kress et al., 2005). With a discriminating efficiency of 72 percent, the (CBOL) proposed the matK+rbcL two-locus combination as the optimal plant barcode (CBOL plant working group, 2009). \r\nDNA barcoding has become a widespread global way of identification, with the ability to distinguish a plant species throughout its life cycle (fruits, seeds, seedlings, mature individuals both sterile and fertile, as well as destroyed specimens), gastrointestinal contents, and fecal contents from animals also. This also aids evolutionary biology scientist in identifying regulated species, rare species, medicinal plants, and endangered species by comparing species definitions across plant lineages using genetic variability measures based on DNA barcode sequence data, as well as flagging or marking species that are new to science, such as cryptic species.\r\nHere, I review single-locus and multi-locus DNA barcodes, as well as methods for preparing DNA barcodes and the future outlook of DNA barcoding in plants.\r\nSINGLE- LOCUS DNA BARCODES\r\nTraditional barcodes have been explored extensively, but they still have significant limitations. Below are descriptions of some commonly used single-locus barcodes.\r\n1. matK. It has a grater evolutionary rate, inter specific variation, appropriate length, as well as a low or non-existent transition or transversion rate (Min and Hickey, 2007; Sharma and Kumar 2008). Unfortunately, due to currently available primer sets it is difficult to amplify universally and also Taxonomic groups require various primer pairings (chase et al., 2007; Hollingsworth, 2008). As per the CBOL Plant Working Group (2009), a single primer pair will amplify angiosperm DNA with a roughly 90% success rate, but even with multiple primer sets, the success rate was low in gymnosperms (83%) and even worse in cryptogams (10%). Lahay et al., (2008); Cuenoud et al., (2002) employed specific or particular primers to amplify the matK gene in 1667 angiosperm plant samples, resulting in a 100% success rate. matK has different discriminate rates in no of taxonomic families; it can differentiate more than 90% of orchidaceae members (Kress and Erickson, 2007), but only 49% of nutmeg family members (New master et al., 2008). Fazekas et al. (2008) attempted to identify 92 species from 32 genera, but only had a 56 percent success rate. As a result of these observations, the matK barcode alone is not a viable universal barcode.\r\n2. rbcL. With nearly 50000 sequences accessible in the gene bank, rbcL is commonly used in phylogenetic analyses. The key benefit of this gene is that it is simple to amplify, sequence, and align in most plants. However, rbcL sequences are slow to evolve, and the locus contains the least amount of plastid gene divergence among flowering plant species (Kress et al., 2005) and also it is not suitable at the spices level due to its low discriminatory power (Fazekas et al., 2008; Lahaye et al., 2008; CBOL Plant Working Group; Chen et al., 2010). The length of the gene is also a challenge, as double-standard sequencing of the complete gene sequence necessitates the use of four primers. Although rcbL does not have all of the essential characteristics, it is believed that when combined with other plastid or nuclear loci, it can provide correct identification (New master, Fazekas and Ragupathy 2006; Chase et al., 2007; Kress and Erickson 2007; CBOL Plant Working Group, 2009; Hollings worth et al., 2009). Despite these drawbacks, rbcL was one of the best prospective candidate plant barcodes based on the ease with which the gene sequence could be recovered, even though it had previously been rejected as a species identification target (Gielly and Taberlet 1994; Renner, 1999; Salazar et al., 2003).\r\ntrnH-psbA. The plastid barcode trnH-psbA is presently one of the most extensively utilized barcode and this design is globally possible due to the presence of substantially conserved or maintained coding sequences on both sides (Shaw et al., 2005). It has highest rate of Insertions/deletions as well as the most sequence divergence (Kress and Erickson 2007), and a single primer pair is likely to multiply almost all Angiosperms (Shaw et al., 2017). In plants group members like Dendrobium, Pteridophytes, Hydrocotyle, the trnH-psbA region could recognize or identify all the species (vandewiel et al., 2009; Yao et al., 2009; Ma et al., 2010) and it is ideal or suitable for usage as a plant barcode in plant differentiation (Kress and Erickson, 2007; Shaw et al., 2007). In some monocots and conifers, there are duplicated loci and a pseudogene, and the trnH-psbA sequence is substantially longer [>1000 base pair(bp)] (Chase et al., 2007; Hollingswroth et al., 2009) while it is relatively short (less than 300 base pairs in other categories) (Kress et al., 2005) and it is shorter than 100 base pair sequence in bryophytes (Quandt and Stech 2010). The problem with using the trnH-psbA barcode is that some plant ancestry has multiple inversions, which can lead to overestimation of genetic variability and incorrect phylogenetic classification (Whitelock, Hale and Groff, 2010). Another issue with mononucleotide repeats which prematurely terminates sequencing reads, so that longer areas can be difficult to recover without internal sequencing primers (Chase et al., 2009; Ebihara, Nitta and Ito 2010). To achieve acceptable resolution, the trnH-psbA can be employed in a two-locus or three-locus barcode system (Kress et al. 2005; Chase et al., 2007).\r\nITS. It is a robust phylogenetic marker with significant interspecific variation, higher discriminatory strength across plastid regions at lower taxonomic levels, and is studied extensively and suggested as a plant barcode (Alvarez and Wendel 2003; Stoeckle, 2003; Kress et al., 2005; Sass et al., 2007). However, because limitations like as incomplete coordinated evolution, fungal invasion, and amplification and sequencing challenges, (CBOL) has classified ITS as a supplemental locus (CBOL Plant Working Group 2009; Hollingsworth et al., 2011). To avoid the difficulties of sequencing the entire ITS, the CBOL Plant Research Group suggested using ITS2 as a backup to reduce amplification and sequencing issues. So, it is accepted that ITS2 could be used as universal barcode for the identification of wider range of plant taxa, A major concern is that due to the presence of multiple copies in the genome which may lead to inaccurate and misleading results (Chen et al., 2010; Gao et al., 2010ab; Luo et al., 2010; Pange et al., 2010, 2011; Alvarez and Wendel 2003).\r\nOTHER WIDELY USED PLASTID BARCODES\r\nOther often used plastid barcoding markers include the following: (rpoB, rpocL, atpF-atoH, psbK-psbL, ycf5 and trnL). These chloroplast areas are useful for barcoding research and phylogenetic studies at higher taxonomic levels, but due to insufficient variability, they are not ideal for plant DNA barcoding at lower taxonomic level.\r\n\r\nCANDIDATE MULTI-LOCUS DNA BARCODES\r\nMany researchers have proposed a multi locus technique to acquire significant species discrimination because single locus alterations are insufficient (Herbert et al., 2004; Kress and Erickson 2007; Erickson et al., 2008; Kane and Cronk 2008; Lahaye et al., 2008; CBOL Plant Working Group, 2009; Chase and Fay, 2009). Plastid loci of various combinations have given including rbcL + trnH-psbA (Kress and Erickson, 2007), rpocL + matK + trnH-psbA (or) rpocL + rpoB + matK (Chase et al., 2007) and matK + atpF-atpH + psbK-psbI (or) matK + atpF-atpH + trnH-psbA (Pennisi, 2007), Compared to single-locus barcodes these combinations show greater species difference. Due to the recovery of the rbcL area and the selective capability of the matK sequences, the CBOL plant advisory committee has approved matK + rbcL as a universal barcode combination (CBOL Plant Working Group, 2009). Despite having a somewhat higher recognition efficiency than other combinations, this option fell short of the original aim of a universal DNA barcode. For new beginners, rbcL+ matK combinations cannot overcome matK\'s low PCR efficiency, and its success in animals is lower than that of CO1, but coupled barcodes cause more analytical difficulties than single-locus markers.\r\nSUPER-BARCODING\r\nDue to the inconsistencies of single-locus DNA barcodes, a novel process for recognizing closely related plant species is necessary (Heinze, 2007). According to reports, the full CP-genome contains as many variants as the CO1 locus in animals and might be employed as a plant barcode (Kane and Cronk, 2008). The chloroplast genome sequence is 110 to 160 kb long, far longer than commonly employed DNA barcodes, and gives greater diversity to distinguish closely related plants (Mehandi et al., 2013). The CP-genome is a versatile method for phylogenetics that can improve resolution at lower taxonomic levels in plant phylogenetic, population genetic, and phylogeographic study, allowing for the recovery of monophyletic lineages and therefore being proposed as a species-level DNA barcode (Parks et al., 2009).\r\nThe Chloroplast genome is smaller than the nuclear genome and has a greater interspecific and lesser intraspecific divergence, making it suitable for use as a genome-based barcode (Mehandi et al., 2015). Although sequences from several or single nuclear or chloroplast genes have been useful for distinguishing species, the chloroplast genome has proven to be an effective tool to identify closely related species (Parks et al., 2009; Nock et al., 2011. Joly, (2012), termed \"JML,\" utilized to examine chloroplast gene sequences and identify a hybrid and geographically isolated ancestry of Pachcycladon in New Zealand\'s southern alps (Beker et al., 2013).\r\nPROCESS OF DNA BARCODING\r\nI\'ve outlined the full DNA barcoding procedure, from specimen collecting in the field to lab processing and manual editing and verification after sequencing.\r\nNAMING AND LOCATING OF SPECIMENS\r\nPrepare a list of desired species and regions to visit, as well as regional floras, internet databases, and local recorders, to assist in locating the correct target species. Furthermore, appropriately recognizing and naming DNA barcoding samples is critical, as is using a standard reference guide for plant names or recognized monographs for taxonomic sampling.\r\nFIELDCOLLECTINGOF PLANT SAMPLES\r\nREQUIREMENTS:\r\nSpecimen collection envelopes, Self-indicating silica gel, Herbarium voucher collection bags, Field notebook or laptop, Field press, Drying paper, Camera, GPS, Air-tight sealable box, Jewelry tags.\r\nPREPARATIONOF HERBARIUM SPECIMENS\r\nREQUIREMENTS\r\nDrain paper, Corrugates, Flimsies, Field press, Drying oven, Herbarium mounting paper, Gummed linen strips, Herbarium labels, PVA glue, Freezer, herbarium cupboards.\r\nCOLLECTING SAMPLES FOR DNA EXTRACTIONS FROM HERBARIUM SPECIMENS REQUIREMENTS\r\nLaptop, Specimen labels, Plastic zip lock bags, Forceps, 70% Ethanol, A3 scanner.\r\nCollecting DNA samples straight from herbarium specimens is a quick and easy technique to get a huge number of validated samples. The age of the specimens, as well as how they were conserved and stored, will influence the chances of getting usable DNA. We discovered that there is a 10% loss of DNA per decade, thus it is preferable to use samples which is less than 30 years old (de vere et al., 2012).\r\nCreate a catalog of herbarium species to gather and labels with duplicate collection codes; these can be cut in half and one half stuck to the herbarium specimen to mark that it has been sampled, while the other half is placed in the bag with the leaf sample. Now pick an herbarium specimen to sample. Using forceps, take a tiny piece of material measuring 2-4cm square and store it in airtight zip lock bags. Label with the collection code and species name. We must use an A3 scanner to capture the collection information after the herbarium specimens have been sampled.\r\nLABORATORY INFORMATION MANAGEMENT SYSTEMS (LIMS)\r\nKeeping track of the gathered samples, especially in plants as they transit through the lab operations, is a difficult undertaking, since each sample will be amplified numerous times to allow for effective amplification utilizing the two DNA barcode markers. Spreadsheets can be used to keep a record of samples, but for large-scale DNA barcode campaigns, a LIMS system and the Biocode plugin, a free utility that can be added to the Geneious pro bio informatics programme, are utilized (Parker et al., 2012).\r\nDNA EXTRACTION OF HERBARIUM SAMPLES IN 96-WELLFORMATE REQUIREMENTS\r\n(Qiagen DNeasy 96 plant kit) Commercial extraction kit, 100% Ethanol, tissue grinding mill, 3-mm tungsten carbidebeads, Centrifuge for 96-well plates capable of achieving 6000xg, Pipettes; multi- channel and single channel, Measuring cylinders and buffer reservoirs, Burner for flaming, Water bath, forceps, Proteinase K, DTT, Fridge and Freezer.\r\nThere are several ways for extracting DNA from plant material. A commercial kit (Qiagen DNeasy 96 plant kit) has been accepted for usage with herbarium specimens. Two 96-well plates are used per extraction in a 96-well configuration.\r\nPCR AMPLIFICATION\r\nREQUIREMENTS\r\nTaq polymerase, Forward and Reverse primers, (Bovine serum Albumin)PCR additive, DNA, Molecular biology grade water, PCR tubes or 96-well PCR plates, Heat-sealing PCR film, Thermocycler with96-well plates.\r\nThe following rbcL and matK primers are commonly used to amplify plant species:\r\nThe amplification of the DNA barcode markers rbcL and matK is discussed here. It works with herbarium material as well as newly obtained material that has been preserved in silica gel before extraction. Table 1 lists the most frequent rbcL and matK primers. The rbcL primers are typically ubiquitous, operating across a wide taxonomic range; for the first PCR, we used rbcLaF and rbcLr590. If this doesn\'t work, we\'ll try a different reverse primer. When employing herbarium material, matK is more difficult to work with and requires more primer combinations. It might also be difficult for non-seed plants, necessitating more primer development (Fazekas et al., 2012).\r\nPCR AMPLIFICATION\r\nThe components required for PCR are listed in Table 2\r\nGEL ELECTROPHORESIS\r\nRequirements. Agarose gel, 1XTAE buffer, SYBR dye, Size standard, loading buffer, Electrophoresis tank, Combs and gel support, Masking tape, Microwave, Conical flask, Power pack, UV rays gel imaging system, Amplified DNA for running in gel.\r\nGel support and combs come in a variety of sizes and shapes, and this approach may be utilized to run a 96-well plate of samples at once.\r\nDNA SEQUENCING\r\nSamples must be sanger sequenced in both directions for DNA barcoding, therefore each PCR plate will yield two sequencing plates. For DNA sequencing, the same primers which are used for PCR can be utilized. Because of its precision and long read length, DNA sequencing is an excellent method for creating or forming reference DNA barcoding libraries.\r\nMANUAL EDITING, ALIGNMENTAND DATA CHECKS\r\nThere are numerous software programs available for manual editing and data checks, such as Codon code Aligner, Sequencher, and Geneious.\r\nFUTURE PROSPECTS FOR PLANT DNA BARCODING\r\nDNA barcodes were first offered to the botanical community over a decade ago and have since been used in a range of inquiries in both applied and fundamental plant study. One of the primary reasons that DNA barcoding has not been widely used for species identification is because no one marker can completely distinguish between species in most taxonomic categories. Plant DNA barcoding will improve in two essential ways to benefit the botanical group in the future: 1. building a worldwide plant DNA barcode library for universal or worldwide usage. 2. Developing and implementing novel marker technologies, as well as implementing latest sequencing techniques.\r\nBUILDING THE GLOBAL PLNAT DNA BARCODE LIBRARY\r\nOne of the biggest challenges for the next years is populating the global plant DNA barcode library. The forest monitoring plants provide a wealth of information for the creation of a universal plant DNA barcode library. Additional paths for establishing the universal library for plants include lineage-based and floristic attempts. Recently, large initiatives have begun to develop DNA barcodes for whole regional floras, one of the most spectacular libraries yet built for identifying Canada\'s vascular plants (Braukmann et al., 2017). Braukmann and colleagues successfully created barcode sequence data for 96 percent of the five thousand (5108) species known from Canada using three markers (rbcL, matK, and ITS2).\r\nThe most difficult aspect of this approach is identifying the financing resources to cover the sequencing and laboratory expenditures. However, once this money is available, both fundamental and applied research will considerably benefit.\r\nADOPTING NEW DNA MARKERS AND NEW SEQUENCING TECHNOLOGIES\r\nSuppositions and predictions about the future of DNA barcoding began almost simultaneously with research using these markers to taxonomy, evolution, and ecological concerns. (\"Edna\" or \"Metabarcoding\") (Taberlet et al., 2012) is one of the available DNA barcoding modifications that uses genetic markers to identify species in environmental samples like soil, seawater, or coral reefs (Leray and Knowlton, 2015). It necessitates the use of \"mini barcodes,\" which are short and unique genetic markers that use a sub-region of standardized markers to overcome the problem of degraded DNA in these samples (Hajibabaei and Mckenna, 2012). Meta barcoding is rapidly evolving due to advances in methodology such as short DNA fragment recovery, sequencing, and amplifying. In addition, new bioinformatics methods for converting a list of DNA sequences found in a sample into a list of recognizable species are being developed.\r\nOther sequencing methods, such as \"Micro fluidic PCR based\" target amplification, may provide a cheaper and faster option for manufacturing large-scale multi-locus plant DNA barcoding (Gostel M, pers.comm.), are examples of the present status of genomics innovation. Many of these approaches and technologies are still in their infancy, and they may still prove to advance our capacity to use genetic markers to achieve DNA barcoding goals.\r\n','Vasa Dileep Reddy, Suhel Mehandi, Harmeet S. Janeja, Kanak Saxena and Satya Prakash (2022). Concept on Plant DNA Barcodes and their Application in Identification of Plants. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 14(2a): 360-368.'),(5164,'134','Response of Rattus rattus towards Salivary Gland Extract of conspecifics','Bindu Bala and B.K. Babbar*','61 Response of Rattus rattus towards Salivary Gland Extract of conspecifics B.K. Babbar.pdf','',1,'Understanding the role of scent glands and their pheromones in communicative patterns in pest species could open the doors for pest management. House rat (Rattus rattus) is one of the major commensal rodent pests worldwide. Salivary glands are reported to be pheromonal in nature and play role in social and sexual communication in some species. Therefore, current investigation was carried out to study the response of Rattus rattus towards salivary gland extract of conspecifics of different sexes and maturity groups and to understand the role of salivary glands in social and sexual communication. From mature and immature male and female groups of rats (4 groups), 50% extract from mandibular, sublingual, and parotid glands was prepared individually in a solvent mixture of dichloromethane and n-hexane (1:1, v/v) and was exposed to all four groups under bi-choice conditions during the treatment period of seven days in laboratory cages. Results revealed that there was no repellent/attractant effect of salivary glands extract of immature male and female rats towards different maturity groups and sexes. Sexually mature rats were, however, responsive towards only mandibulargland extracts of sexually mature rats of both sexes. Therefore, in the future, pheromones present in the mandibular gland of mature house rats could be identified and further used in the preparation of the pheromonal traps to improve the trapability of rats for managing pest populations.','Salivary glands, House rat, pheromones, communication','From this research, we concluded that mature and immature rats of both sexes do not show any response toward salivary gland extract of immature rats of both sexes. Mature rats were more responsive to mandibular gland extract of mature male and female rats. These results indicated that mandibular gland extract of mature male and female house rats may play a role in social and sexual communication. During present study, we have confirmed the pheromonal nature of the mandibular gland of the mature male and female house rats.','INTRODUCTION\r\nHouse rat, Rattus rattus is the most abundant, widely distributed, highly adaptable, and cosmopolitan commensal rodent species worldwide which causes huge losses to the food stuffs and other stored items.10-15% of damage in paddy godowns is due to house rats only (Kambarajan et al., 2004). House rat is the prominent pest of poultry farms in India as these farms provide predator-free environment along with a constant nutritious food supply in the form of eggs, newly born chickens etc. (Hussain et al., 2006).\r\nFarmers prefer to use acute rodenticides as these are fast-acting but persistent use of these rodenticides leads to the development of poison aversion and bait shyness in rats. Rodenticides persist in the environment for a longer period and harm non-target species also (Geduhn et al., 2014) therefore, cannot be used regularly (Selvaraj and Archunan 2002). In such circumstances, more advanced rat pest management strategies taken from natural systems are required that are environmentally benign, target-specific, and humane.\r\nAll animals have to coordinate their activity with other members of their species if they are to survive and reproduce. This requires some form of communication, which for the majority of animals involves the use of chemical signals, known as pheromones (Rodriguez 2005). In many mammalian species, individuals use different sources of odors/scents to communicate such as feces, urine, vaginal secretions, ﬂank glands, ear glands, saliva, feet glands, etc. (Gray et al., 1984).\r\nSaliva and salivary glands are thought to contain pheromonal substances. Several potential chemosignals have been identified in the saliva of different species, including the well-known sexual attractant pheromones of boars (Loebel et al., 2000). Signaling pheromones 3-androstenol and 5alpha-androstenone in boar saliva play a major role in the overall effect of the male on puberty attainment in gilts (Booth, 1984). Cheek glands secretions are also reported to be involved in the attraction of both male and female rats. Response of male to female scent was comparatively greater than that of female to male cheek gland secretions in Rattus norvegicus (Kannan and Archunan 2001). This might be due to the active involvement of androgens in the pheromonal communication in rats (Kannan and Archunan 1998). Cheek glands secretions of sexually mature male and female lesser bandicoot rats have also been reported to attract the opposite sex (Kannan and Archunan 1999). The presence of non-volatile pheromones in saliva comes from findings of mouse saliva containing high concentrations of lipocalins, which are very similar to the major urinary proteins (MUPs) (Marchese et al., 1998; Pelosi 1998). Like urinary proteins, lipocalins are synthesized in the liver as well as in the submaxillary, lachrymal, sublingual, parotid, and mammary glands under the control of various developmental and hormonal stimuli (Shahan et al., 1987), lipocalins are also testosterone-dependent, which signal the presence of a reproductively active male (Brennan and Kendrick 2006) and are strongly implicated in intraspecies chemical communication (Spinelli et al., 2002). \r\nSuccess in the field of insect pheromones for their management lured the scientists to work on animal pheromones. Sex attractant pheromones are used as trap lure to attract and capture mice (Musso et al., 2017; Takács et al., 2016, 2017). Understanding the role of the salivary gland in social/sexual communication would confirm its pheromonal nature. In the future, chemical analysis of the salivary glands could be done to determine the chemical compounds involved in social and sexual communication which can be further used as trap lures to attract and capture rats for their management. \r\nTherefore, the present study was carried out to assess the response of house rats towards salivary gland secretions of conspecifics of different age groups and sexes.\r\nMATERIALS AND METHODS\r\nThe current investigation was carried out at Animal House Laboratory and Rodent Research Laboratory, Department of Zoology, Punjab Agricultural University, Ludhiana located at an intersection of 30˚55\'N parallel of latitude and 75˚54\' E line of longitude.\r\nA. Rats’ collection and maintenance\r\nRats were captured from stores, grocery stores, and poultry farms in and around Ludhiana for the current research. Rats were individually acclimatized in laboratory cages before the start of the experiment, with WSO bait (Cracked wheat, powdered sugar, and vegetable oil; 96: 2: 2) and water provided ad libitum. Animals were used and maintained as per the guidelines of the Institutional Animal Ethics Committee. Approval of Institutional Animal Ethics Committee Guru Angad Dev Veterinary and Animal Sciences University, Ludhiana was obtained for the usage of animals. Before starting the experiment, rats were weighed and divided into four groups of healthy and sexually mature male and female (body weight above 150 gm) and immature male and female rats (body weight below 150 gm) (n=6, each group). \r\nB. Preparation of salivary gland extract (mandibular, sublingual and parotid)\r\nMales and females of both mature and immature groups of both sexes of rats were also sacrificed and their mandibular (Fig. 1A), sublingual (Fig. 1B), and parotid glands (Fig. 1C) were excised and weighed. 50% extract of each salivary gland was prepared by homogenizing each gland individually in a solvent mixture of n-hexane and dichloromethane (1:1v/v) with a glass homogenizer under ice-cold conditions. Immediately after homogenization, the supernatant was filtered out in clean sterile glass vials. Few drops of polyethylene glycol were added to the extract for odor fixation and vials were sealed and stored at – 20°C.\r\nC. Exposure of rats of different maturity groups and sexes to mandibular, sublingual, and parotid glands extracts \r\nRats were fed on weighed plain WSO bait during the pre-treatment period and water was provided ad libitum. After the pre-treatment period, rats of different age groups and sexes were exposed individually to extracts of different salivary glands collected from different groups of rats for 7 days under bi-choice conditions. A cotton swab soaked with 0.5ml of 50% salivary gland extracts was placed in the clean plastic vials and each vial was tied on the one corner of the joined cages and that cage was considered as a treated side while the other side was considered as an untreated side. Two bowls each containing 20g of plain WSO bait were placed diagonally to each other on the treated and untreated sides of the cages. After the treatment period, rats were again fed on plain WSO bait to record the post-treatment bait consumption. Daily bait intake was recorded after every 24 hours during the pre-and post-treatment period of three days and treatment period of seven days. The formula used to calculate daily bait consumption is given below:\r\nDaily bait consumption (g/100 g body weight) =\r\n \r\nD. Statistical analyses\r\nValues were calculated as mean ± SE. Data collected for the dependent variable (consumption of bait from plain and treated side) using factorial completely randomized design was subjected to analysis of variance using Proc GLM procedure of statistical software SAS 9.4. Tukey\'s multiple comparison method was applied to compare the significant difference among different treatments, groups, and days at P≤0.05.\r\nRESULTS AND DISCUSSION\r\nA. Exposure of rats of different maturity groups and sexes to 50% mandibular, sublingual, and parotid glands extracts of immature male and female house rats\r\nAll four groups were exposed individually to 0.5ml of 50% extract from each gland of immature male and female house rats. There was a significant difference in the body weight between mature and immature rats of both sexes (Tables 1 & 2) and there was a non-significant difference in overall average consumption of plain WSO bait between pre-and post-treatment periods. There was also a non-significant difference in the daily and overall mean bait consumption between plain and treated sides and among all the four groups during the treatment period. These results, therefore, indicated neither attractant nor repellent effects of mandibular, sublingual, and parotid gland extracts of immature male and female rats towards mature and immature rats of both sexes. During the present study, the non-responsive behavior of rats towards salivary gland extracts of immature rats might be due to the low level of free testosterone and estradiol in the body of immature rats, which are responsible for altering the composition of the scent gland extracts. Present studies revealed that the immature female rats show irregularity in the estrous cyclicity, which might be due to the low level of FSH, LH, and estrogen in immature rats. The composition of the scents of the opposite sexes is altered by circulating free testosterone and estradiol from a physiological standpoint, which is responsible for the attraction/repulsion towards the rats of opposite/same sexes. Males and females need these steroid hormones to produce smells that were appealing to opposite-sex conspecifics. The attraction towards scents from opposite-sex conspecifics is influenced by the receiver\'s hormonal milieu. Individuals with low gonadal steroid titers, do not emit odors that are alluring to the opposite sex (Petrulis 2013). \r\nB. Exposure of rats of different maturity groups and sexes to 50% mandibular, sublingual, and parotid gland extracts of mature female house rats\r\nAll four groups of rats were exposed to 0.5ml of 50% extracts of different glands of mature female house rats during the treatment period under bi-choice conditions. There was a significant difference in the body weight between mature and immature rats of both sexes and a non-significant difference in overall average consumption of plain WSO bait between the pre-and post-treatment periods (Table 3). In the case of mandibular gland extract of mature female rats, daily bait consumption from the plain and treated sides differed non significantly in the immature and mature male and female groups of rats. However, overall bait consumption differed non-significantly in immature male and female rats but differed significantly (P≤ 0.05) in the mature male and female groups of rats being significantly (P≤ 0.05) high on the treated side in the mature male rats (4.38±0.31) and significantly (P≤ 0.05) low on the treated side in mature female rats (4.10±0.22). These results indicated the attractant and repellent effect of mandibular gland extract of mature female rats towards opposite and same-sex respectively of mature rats but these effects were not very significant.\r\nHowever, in the case of sublingual gland extract of mature female rats, there was a non-significant difference in the mean and overall bait consumption between plain and treated sides, between mature male and female groups, and between immature male and female groups of rats. These results, therefore, indicated that sublingual gland extract of mature female house rats has neither attractant nor repellent effect on different sexes and maturity groups of rats. Sublingual gland extract of mature female rats might not be used in social communication.\r\n In the case of parotid gland extract of mature female rats, daily bait consumption from the plain and treated sides differed non significantly in the immature and mature male and female groups of rats. Overall average bait consumption from plain and treated sides also differs non-significantly in mature male, immature male, and female groups of rats. However, in the case of mature females, overall bait consumption was significantly (P≤ 0.05) high on the plain side (5.15±0.16) as compared to the treated side (4.43±0.20) indicating a slight repellent effect on the parotid gland extract in mature female rats. \r\nC. Exposure of rats of different maturity groups and sexes to 50% mandibular, sublingual, and parotid gland extracts of mature male house rats\r\nAll four groups of rats were exposed to mandibular, sublingual, and parotid gland extracts of mature male house rats individually under bi-choice conditions for seven days. Results (Table 4) showed that there was a significant difference in the body weight between mature and immature rats of both sexes. There was a non-significant difference in the consumption (g/100gmbw) of plain WSO bait between pre-and post-treatment periods with all the 3 extracts of salivary glands.\r\nIn the case of mandibular gland extract of mature male rats, daily mean bait consumption from plain and treated sides differed non-significantly in immature male, female, and mature female groups of rats but differed significantly in the mature male group of rats. In the case of the mature male group of rats, daily mean bait consumption was significantly (P≤ 0.05) high on the plain side on day 1 and 2 as compared to the treated side. These results indicated the significant repellent effect of mandibular gland extract of mature male rats towards the same sex for 2 days. Overall mean bait consumption from plain and treated sides differed non-significantly between immature male and a female group of rats. However, on the treated side, it was significantly (P≤ 0.05) low for mature male rats (3.86±0.42) and significantly (P≤ 0.05) high for mature female rats (6.14±0.27). Results, therefore, revealed the attractant/repellent effect of the mandibular gland of mature male rats towards opposite and same-sex respectively, but these effects were not very significant. In the case of both sublingual and parotid gland extract of mature male rats, daily mean bait consumption differs non-significantly from day 1 to day 7, among groups and between treatments during the treatment period. There was also a non-significant difference in overall mean bait consumption between plain and treated sides in all the four groups of rats. These results indicated neither repellent nor attractant effects of sublingual and parotid gland extract of mature male rats towards same and opposite sexes of immature and mature rats.\r\nComparison of data on the effectiveness of salivary gland extract of mature male and female rats against animals of different maturity groups and sexes revealed slight attractant/repellent effects of mandibular gland extracts of mature male and female rats towards mature rats of both sexes and mature females were slightly repelled from parotid gland extract of mature female rats indicating the presence of pheromones in low titer in mandibular and parotid gland secretions which might be playing a secondary role in sexual communication in mature rats. Cheek glands secretions were also reported to attract both male and female rats. Response of male to female scent was comparatively greater than that of female to male cheek gland secretions in Rattus norvegicus albinus (Kannan and Archunan 2001). This might be due to the active involvement of androgens in the pheromonal communication in mature rats (Kannan and Archunan 1998). Cheek glands secretions of sexually mature male and female lesser bandicoot rats have also been reported to attract the opposite sex (Kannan and Archunan 1999). Laukaitis et al. (2005) observed the expression of many androgen binding proteins (Abps) in various glands including the lacrimal and salivary glands. It was reported that Salivary Abp mediates the role of mate preference and saliva might be involved in sexual communication (Wickliffe et al., 2002) indicating the presence of pheromones in the salivary glands. Other than sexual communication, cheek gland secretions were also reported to be involved in marking activities of mammalian species such as mice, rats, and squirrels (Kannan and Archunan 1999). During the present study, salivary glands extract of mature male and female rats were not attracted to immature rats. It might be due to the reason that scents of sexually receptive, opposite-sex conspecifics are typically not attractive to receivers with low circulating titers of gonadal hormones (Petrulis, 2013).\r\n\r\n','Bindu Bala and B.K. Babbar (2022). Response of Rattus rattus towards Salivary Gland Extract of conspecifics. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 14(2a): 369-377.'),(5165,'134','Screening and Identification of Resistant Sources of okra, Abelmoschus esculentus L. accessions against Whitefly, Bemisia tabaci Gennadius','Niruba D.*, Chandrasekaran M., Gailce Leo Justin C., Rajanbabu V. and Satya V.K.','62 Screening and Identification of Resistant Sources of okra, Abelmoschus esculentus L. accessions against Whitefly, Bemisia tabaci Gennadius Niruba D.pdf','',1,'Field screening studies were conducted with 30 okra germplasm accessions against whitefly (Bemisia tabaci G.) and okra yellow vein mosaic virus (OYVMV) incidence during the summer season of 2022 at Anbil Dharmalingam Agricultural College and Research Institute, Tiruchirappalli district of Tamilnadu. Among the 30 accessions screened none of the accession was found completely free from the whitefly population, although they differed significantly in pest number. The highest whitefly population was found during 18th and 19th standard meteorological weeks. The accessions IC 417885 (3.80/3 leaves/plant), NO 315 (3.02/3 leaves/plant), AE 65 (2.70/3 leaves/plant), EC 755648 (2.90/3 leaves/plant) and Arka Anamika (3.34/3leaves/plant) which was recorded maximum whitefly population. The accessions, GED 15, GED 11, AE 11, AE 62, AE 64, IC 43743, and Pusa Bhendi 5 recorded the lowest mean population of 1.16, 1.24, 1.08, 1.05, 1.01, 1.01 and 1.11 per 3 leaves per plant respectively. The percent disease incidence (PDI) was recorded against OYVMV for 30 okra accessions. The least PDI of 15.56 percent is recorded in the accession of GED 15 followed by the accessions AE 11, AE 62, AE 63, IC 43743, and Pusa Bhendi 5. The morphological parameters analysed in the selected okra accessions indicated that, among the morphological parameters the germplasm accessions possessing high trichome density, dark green leaf colour and less leaf area offered resistance mechanism against the whitefly and OYVMV. The identified highly resistant accessions viz, GED 15, GED 11, AE 11, AE 62, AE 64, IC 43743, and Pusa Bhendi 5 possessing the above characters were completely free from OYVMV, while the susceptible accession Arka Anamika possessing less trichome density, more leaf area, light green leaf colour were highly preferred by whitefly and OYVMV. The correlation studies revealed that, leaf area had positive correlation with whitefly and OYVMV, trichome density and dark green leaf colour had significant negative correlation with whitefly and OYVMV incidence.','Okra accessions, whitefly, OYVMV, morphological parameters','Okra is one of the most important vegetable crops which is grown all over the world including India. Many insect pests and disease attack on okra. Whitefly is one of the important pests and act as a vector of OYVMV incidence. In the present research which conducted at Anbil Dharmalingam Agricultural College and Research Institute, Tiruchirappalli district, Tamilnadu, out of 30 okra accessions screened based on whitefly population, OYVMV incidence and morphological characters, 7 accessions viz, GED 19, GED 11, AE 11, AE 62, AE 64, IC 43743, and Pusa Bhendi 5 showed highly resistant to vector and virus incidence. The accessions viz, GED 545, EC 16394, AE 63, IC 22237, IC 18960, and IC 433532 which were showed resistant to whitefly and OYVMV incidence and Arka Anamika shows susceptible reaction to whitefly and disease incidence. In the present field experiment, the identified resistant accessions which exhibit resistance mechanism to whitefly and YVMV incidence, suited for plant resistant breeding programmes.','INTRODUCTION\r\nVegetables constitute an important source of human diet supplying carbohydrates, minerals, vitamins, proteins, dietary fibres, besides having medicinal value and provides nutritional security to the predominately vegetarian population. Among the many vegetables grown, okra, Abelmoschus esculentus L. the queen of vegetables is one of the important vegetables belongs to the family malvaceae and is locally known as okra or Lady’s finger. Okra is predominantly grown in many tropical and subtropical parts of the world throughout the year for immature green non fibrous edible fruits (Singh et al., 2014). India ranks second in vegetable production in the world, after China with an area of about 8.75 m.ha that contributes for 128243 MT and 14.66 MT/ha of production and productivity, respectively. India occupies first position in okra production with an area, production, and productivity of 498 thousand ha, 5784 thousand tons and 11.6 mt/ha, respectively. Okra requires a long, warm, and humid growing period. It can be successfully grown in hot humid areas. It is sensitive to frost and extremely low temperatures (Choudhary et al., 2015). \r\nOne of the important limiting factors in the cultivation of okra is insect pests. Many of the insect pests occurring on cotton are found to ravage okra crop. As high as 72 species of insects have been recorded on okra (Srinivasa and Rajendran 2003) of which, the sucking pests causes significant damage to the crop. Among the sucking pests whitefly causes significant damage to okra by feeding on phloem sap, thereby contaminating leaves and fruits with honey dew that causes sooty mould formation. Besides causing direct damage, it also transmits an economically important viral disease caused by okra yellow vein mosaic virus (OYVMV), resulting in significant yield loss especially when it occurs in the early stages crop growth (Nath and Saikia 1993). OYVMV belongs to the genus begomovirus of the family geminiviridae. Geminiviruses make up a large diverse family of plant viruses and causes heavy crop losses worldwide (Varma et al., 2003). Several OYVMV resistant okra varieties have been released, but none of them had retained resistance for long (Usha et al., 2003). Therefore, the ideal way of controlling this viral disease in okra would be to develop the resistant cultivars against the virus as well as the vector. Hence, the present study was undertaken to screen okra accessions to identify resistant sources against whitefly vector and YVMV disease incidence.\r\nMATERIALS AND METHODS\r\nThe present field experiment was conducted at Anbil Dharmalingam Agricultural College and Research Institute, Tiruchirappalli district during the season of summer 2022, to screen the okra accessions under natural infection condition without any plant protection measures. For this study, 30 okra accessions were screened to find out the resistance source against whitefly and OYVMV. Each okra accession/germplasm was sown in 2 rows with a spacing of 60×45 cm and 3 replications were maintained. All the recommended agronomic practices given in tnauagri portal (https://agritech.tnau.ac.in) were followed to raise the crop.\r\nThe reaction of okra accessions against whitefly was recorded by counting the number of whiteflies from five randomly selected and tagged plants in each replication. Whitefly population was recorded on three leaves (top, middle and bottom) of each randomly selected plants at weekly intervals from one month after sowing to harvest stage. The data was converted into mean population per three leaves per plant.\r\nOYVMV infestation was recorded based on the yellowing symptoms of the plant and damage score was used for grading the percent disease incidence (Narayanan et al., 2017). The observations were made at 30, 45 and 60 DAS to assess the YVMVD incidence and the severity grades were designated using the 0-4 scale based on visual observations. To quantify the disease severity, the calculations were made using the percent disease incidence with respect to the number of diseased plants and total number of plants observed per plot (Bag et al., 2013).\r\nThe Percent Disease Incidence (PDI) was calculated by the given formula:\r\nPDI=(Number of diseased plants)/(Total number of plants observed) ×100\r\nThe coefficient of infection (CI) was calculated by multiplying the percent disease incidence to the response value assigned for each severity grade. Thus, the coefficient value combines the amount of infection and its severity. Based on the scaling, the coefficient of infection (CI) was calculated by multiplying the percent disease incidence (PDI) to the response value (RV) assigned for each severity grade.Coefficient of infection, which was expressed as a product of the PDI and severity grade (Response value), was more useful in selecting suitable accession resistant to YVMD.\r\n CI = PDI × RV\r\nMorphological Parameters of the Okra Accessions. The following morphological parameters were recorded in the selected okra accessions.\r\nEstimation of Trichome Density. The trichome density of the 14 selected okra accessions were assessed by counting the number of trichomes in a 1 cm2 round disc cut from the distal part of the fully opened leaf of the plant. Three discs from each each of five plants (standardized stage) from each replication of the treatment were examined. The total number of trichomes were counted under a binocular stereo zoom microscope at 40x magnification and expressed as trichomes per cm2 area (Jindal et al., 2011).\r\nPlant Height, Leaf Area, Leaf Colour. The plant height was taken at 50% flowering stage in five plants of each replication and expressed as cm. The leaf area was measured by recording the length and width at 50% flowering stage in five plants of each replication and expressed as cm2.Leaf colour of the germplasm lines was recorded based on visual observation at 50% flowering stage in five plants of each replication using the leaf colour chart.\r\nStatistical Analysis. The population of the whitefly, during the crop period was converted to mean population per plant. The population counts of whitefly, PDI of OYVMV and morphological parameters were analysed statistically by using Factorial Randomized Block Design (FRBD). To find out the influence of morphological parameters on pest and disease occurrence in different accessions, simple correlation coefficients were worked out between the incidence of whitefly and OYVMV with morphological parameters.\r\nRESULT AND DISCUSSION\r\nScreening of okra accessions under field conditions was undertaken against the whitefly and OYVMV to identify the resistant sources for utilization in breeding programme.\r\nReaction of okra Accessions against Whitefly. The results of mean population of whitefly obtained from the pooled data on the evaluation of okra accessions against whiteflies during summer 2022 are presented in (Table 1). Among the 30 okra accessions screened, the highest mean population of whiteflies per 3 leaf was recorded in IC 417885(3.80), NO 315 (3.02), AE 65 (2.70), EC 755648 (2.90), Arkaanamika (3.34) and there are on par with each other. The accessions GED 15, GED 11, AE 11, AE 62, AE 64, IC 43743, and Pusa Bhendi 5 recorded the lowest number of whiteflies per leaf with a mean population of 1.16, 1.24, 1.08, 1.05, 1.01, 1.01 and 1.11 respectively. \r\nThese accessions are least preferred by whiteflies because some of the resistant characters like trichome density, dark leaf colour, less leaf area, were present in these accessions to deter the colonization of whitefly. Presence of these positive attributes might be the reason for resistance against whitefly when compared with other accessions.\r\nThe whitefly population counts recorded during different standard meterological weeks, indicated that, initially the whitefly population per 3 leaves was less during 14th (0.21), 15th (0.64) and 16th (0.77) standard weeks, then they reached peak population during 18th (2.54) and 19th (2.96) standard weeks. From the results obtained, it is evident that the whitefly population showed differential preference to the okra accessions. The present findings are in close conformity with another study on okra germplasm reaction to whitefly population (Manjua et al., 2018).\r\nReaction of okra germplasm against OYVMV. Screening of okra accessions was done against the yellow vein mosaic virus disease resistance, and their level of resistance is presented in Table 4.\r\nOf the 30 okra accessions screened, the percent disease incidence was obtained from 15.56 to 58.89 per cent. The least percent disease incidence (PDI) of 15.56 per cent is recorded in the accession GED 15 and exhibited the reaction as highly resistant. This was followed by the accessions viz., AE 11, AE 62, IC 43743, and Pusa Bhendi 5 which was recorded the least PDI of 16.67 and AE 63 which was recorded the PDI of 20. The maximum PDI of 58.89 per cent was recorded in the \r\naccession of EC 755648, followed by the accessions of IC 417885, NO 315, AE 65, IC 417875, IC 4111370, Arka Anamika which was recorded the high PDI of 53.33 per cent and response value of different accessions ranged from 0.00 to 1.00. The response value was high in EC 755648 (1.00) followed by GED 509, IC 417885, NO 315, AE 65, IC 411880, and Arkaanamika in the range of 0.75. Lowest response value of 0.00 was recorded in the accessions of GED 15, AE 64, IC 43743, Pusa Bhendi 5. The coefficient of infection was more in EC 755648(58.89). The least coefficient of infection of 0.00 was recorded in the accessions of GED 15, AE 64, IC 43743, and Pusa Bhendi 5.\r\nMorphological parameters of the okra Accessions. The morphological parameters include plant height, leaf area, trichome density and leaf colour were assessed in selected okra accessions which are identified as resistant accessions in the field screening against whitefly and OYVMV incidence. A total of 14 okra accessions viz, 7 highly resistant (GED 15, GED 11, AE 11, AE 62, AE 64, IC 43743, and Pusa bhendi 5), 6 resistant (GED 545, EC 16394, AE 63, IC 22237, IC 18960, and IC 433532) and one susceptible (Arkaanamika) accessions were selected to find out the relation of these parameters with whitefly and OYVMV resistance or susceptibility.\r\nPlant Height. The plant height was recorded in 14 selected okra Accessions and expressed in cm (Table 6).\r\nAmong the 14 selected okra accessions, Arkaanamika which was susceptible to whitefly and OYVMV recorded maximum plant height of 42.83cm. The accessions GED 15, GED 11, AE 11, AE 64, IC 43743, Pusa bhendi 5 which were highly resistant to whitefly and OYVMV incidence recorded minimum plant heights of 19.15 cm, 18.92 cm, 20.93 cm, 21.82 cm, 23.26 cm respectively. The resistant accessions viz, GED 545 (14.32 cm), EC 16394 (21.56 cm), IC 22237 (21.75 cm), IC 18960 (30.41 cm), IC 433532 (23.37 cm) also recorded less plant heights. The moderate plant heights of 30.53 cm and 31.80 cm recorded in AE 62 and AE 63 respectively which shows highly resistant and resistant to whitefly and OYVMV incidence.\r\nFrom the correlation data, (Table 7) it was observed that the plant height had a non-significant positive influence on whitefly population (r =0.692) and OYVMV (r =0.720) incidence. From the present study, it was evident that plant height did not have any significant influence on the whitefly population build up and OYVMV incidence, because the highly resistant accessions AE 62 and AE 63 have more plant heights than resistant accessions. The present findings are also in tune with the findings of Manju et al. (2021) studied the morphological and biochemical basis of resistance against whitefly in 25 okra germplasms who recorded the less plant height in susceptible check Pusa sawani and moderately susceptible germplasm RJR-110 which shows susceptible reaction to whitefly and YVMV, similarly less plant heights was recorded in IC 344598 and IC 141020 which shows highly resistant to pest and disease incidence. \r\nLeaf Area. From the 14 selected okra accessions, GED 15, GED 11, AE 11, AE 62, AE 64, IC 43743, Pusa Bhendi 5 are found to be highly resistant to whitefly and OYVMV incidence recorded less leaf area of 87.28 cm2, 89.10 cm2, 88.37 cm2, 88.01 cm2, 81.93 cm2, 77.17 cm2, 78.28 cm2 respectively, and it was followed by the entries identified as resistant accessions GED 545 (101.77 cm2), EC 16394 (100.09 cm2), AE 63(104.55 cm2), IC 22237 (101.86 cm2), IC 18960 (109.63 cm2), IC 433532 (100.31 cm2) also recorded less leaf area. (Table 6). The accession Arka Anamika which was susceptible to whitefly and OYVMV incidence recorded highest leaf area of 228.53 cm2.\r\nThe correlation studies (Table 7) revealed that leaf area had significant positive correlation with whitefly population (r = 0.982) and OYVMV (r = 0.990) incidence. The results of the present investigation in agree with the findings of Taggar et al. (2012), who studied the preference of whitefly towards 9 blackgram genotypes and found that positive association with leaf area and whitefly population. The whitefly population positively influenced by leaf area and the reason for the susceptible genotypes possessing large leaf area may be due to the availability of more area for egg laying and whitefly feeding. The results obtained from the present study was closely related with the findings of Manju et al., 2021 who reported that the oviposition, whitefly population are positively influenced by leaf area.\r\nTrichome Density. Trichome density of 14 selected okra accessions was observed under light microscope and expressed as trichomes per cm2 area (Table 6). The highest trichome density of 127.14, 123.53, 128.13, 125.1, 125.27, 127.6 and 123.2 was recorded in the highly resistant accessions of GED 15, GED 11, AE 11, AE 62, AE 64, IC 43743, and Pusa Bhendi 5 respectively, and the resistant accessions GED 545 (78.54), EC 16394 (78.73), AE 63(79), IC 22237 (86.67), IC 18960 (82.6), IC 433532 (80.73) also recorded high trichome densities. The susceptible accession of Arka Anamika which was recorded lowest trichome density of 27.73/cm2. The correlation studies (Table 7) indicated that, trichome density had a highly significant negative correlation (r = -0.839) with the population of whiteflies and OYVMV incidence (r = -0.841).\r\nThe findings obtained from the present research are closely agree with the findings of (Taggar et al., 2012) who reported that trichome density was negatively correlated with whitefly eggs, nymphs, and adults in blackgram and Chandrasekaran, 2020 who studied the screening of okra accessions and found that the accessions possessing high trichome density exhibit resistant to whitefly. The resistant accessions possessing high trichome density may be due to the higher leaf hairiness is not preferred by the whiteflies for oviposition. Similarly Oriani et al. (2010) also evaluated the attractiveness and ovipositional preference of B. tabaci for 17 tomato genotypes. The results indicated that the glandular trichome density was negatively correlated with whiteflies attractiveness and oviposition.\r\nLeaf Colour. The leaf colour of the 14 selected okra accessions were recorded based on visual observations by using a leaf colour chart at 50% flowering stage. The leaf colour ranged between slightly light green to dark green (Table 6). Among the 14 accessions, the highly resistant accessions viz, GED 15, GED 11, AE 11, AE 62, AE 64, IC 43743, and Pusa Bhendi 5, and also the identified resistant accessions viz, GED 545, EC 16394, AE 63, IC 22237, IC 18960, IC 433532, which was recorded lowest whitefly population and OYVMV incidence exhibited dark green (DG) leaf colour, whereas the susceptible accession Arka Anamika which was recorded highest population of whitefly and OYVMV incidence exhibited a light green leaf colour.\r\nThe results of the present investigation revealed that dark green leaf colour had a negative influence on whitefly population and subsequent OYVMV incidence. The present research findings are agreed with the findings of Abu et al. (2016) studied the leaf morphological characters for varietal preference of whitefly among egg plant varieties who observed a significant and negative correlation between the green leaf colour with the whitefly adult population and oviposition. The leaf lamina of the highly resistant varieties reflects long wavelength light than the susceptible varieties, and accordingly curtained the lowest whitefly population.\r\nBased on the results obtained from the present study, it was evident that morphological parameters significantly influence the resistance or susceptibility against the whitefly vector and OYVMV incidence. Among the four morphological parameters studied, leaf area, leaf colour, and trichome density played a significant influence on vector and virus incidence. The leaf area had a positive effect on population of whiteflies and OYVMV incidence, whereas the okra accessions possessing dark green leaf colour and high trichome density had a negative effect on the whitefly vector as well as virus incidence. Therefore, the germplasm lines possessing the dark green colour leaves with more trichome density, and less leaf area are suited for plant resistant breeding programmes.\r\n','Niruba D., Chandrasekaran M., Gailce Leo Justin C., Rajanbabu V. and Satya V.K. (2022). Screening and Identification of Resistant Sources of okra, Abelmoschus esculentus L. accessions against Whitefly, Bemisia tabaci Gennadius. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 14(2a): 378-385.'),(5166,'134','Genetic Variability Studies in Advanced Backcross Derived Lines for Brown Plant Hopper and Blast Resistance in Rice (Oryza sativa L.)','Bhukya Rambabu*, N. Lingaiah, B. Satish Chandra, R. Shravan Kumar and Y. Hari','63 Genetic Variability Studies in Advanced Backcross Derived Lines for Brown Plant Hopper and Blast Resistance in Rice _Oryza sativa L._ B. Rambabu.pdf','',1,'Among the biotic stresses in rice crop, the brown plant hopper (BPH) (Nilaparvata lugens Stal.) is one of the most destructive monophagous insect pests, causing substantial yield loss every year in rice grown throughout tropical, subtropical, and temperate areas in Asia. Rice blast (Magnaporthe oryzae) alone can cause yield loss ranging from 30 to 61 percent depending upon the stage of infection. The research articles was aimed to know the nature and magnitude of genotypic and phenotypic variability for yield and yield contributing characters present in elite advanced back cross derived rice genotypes for bph and blast resistance. The magnitude of difference between PCV and GCV was less for the traits indicating little influence of environment. Present study revealed that there was less amount of genetic variability in the traits except number of grains/panicle as the reason could be that they are back cross derived lines. For the development of high yielding varieties with good quality the information on variability and genetic parameter of grain quality attributes and their association with each other including grain yield is necessary to formulate suitable breeding strategies for grain quality improvement.','Rice, GCV, PCV, Heritability, Genetic advance as percent of mean','The characters test weight, yield and plant height are attributable to additive gene effects which indicating that improvement in these characters is possible through Back cross followed by selection. The characters productive tillers per plant with low heritability with low genetic advance indicating the character is influenced by environmental effects and selection may not be useful. ','INTRODUCTION\r\nIn India, Rice crop plays a livelihood for millions of rural households. India has the largest area under rice. Among the biotic stresses, the brown planthopper (BPH) (Nilaparvata lugens Stal.) is one of the most destructive monophagous insect pests, causing substantial yield loss every year in rice grown throughout tropical, subtropical, and temperate areas in Asia (Park et al., 2008). Rice blast (Magnaporthe oryzae) alone can cause yield loss ranging from 30 to 61 percent depending upon the stage of infection. In favourable conditions, this disease can devastate entire rice plants within 15 to 20 days and cause yield losses of up to 100 percent (Pradhan et al., 2018). Up to 25 to 55 percent of crops damaged is done by BPH (Madhuri et al., 2017).\r\nResearch work on development on BPH and Blast resistance was initiated to introgress Pi54 and Pi2 genes for blast resistance and Bph3 and bph4 genes for BPH resistance into popular rice variety Siddhi (WGL-44) at Regional Agricultural Research Station, Warangal with a view to develop most adaptable BPH and Blast resistance rice variety.\r\nAdvanced backcross derived lines with introgression of two significant, blast resistance genes (Pi2 and Pi54 from MIL-12) and BPH resistance genes (Bph3, bph4 from BM-71) in the genetic background of popular rice variety in Telangana State “Siddhi (WGL-44)” with the help of molecular markers were developed. Keeping in view the above perspectives to know the nature and magnitude of genotypic and phenotypic variability present in elite advanced back cross derived rice genotypes, the present investigation was carried out to estimate the variability.\r\nMAREIALS AND METHOD\r\nThe experimental material comprised of 31 advanced backcross derived lines (BC2F5) developed by crossing between WGL-44 with inter cross F1s (F1 of first cross: WGL-44 × MIL 12 as donor parent for blast resistance genes i.e., Pi2 and Pi54 and with F1 of second cross: WGL 44 × BM-71 as donor parent for BPH resistance genes bph3 and bph4) possessing pi 54, pi2, bph3, bph4 genes for development of BC1F1s. In 2nd generation backcross was made with WGL-44 to get BC2F1 and advance to BC2F5. The present investigation was carried out at the Regional Agricultural Research Station, Warangal, which is located at an altitude of 304 M above MSL, 17.97° N latitude and 79.60° E longitude during kharif, 20121. The experiments were laid in randomized complete block design with three replications. Standard package of practices were followed to maintain a good crop in the field. Five randomly competitive plants were selected from each replication and used to record observations on yield traits. Estimates of phenotypic and genotypic coefficients of variation (Burton & De Vane 1952), heritability estimates in broad sense (Lush, 1940) and genetic advance (Johanson et al., 1955) were calculated following standard statistical procedures.\r\nRESULTS AND DISCUUSION\r\nThe analysis of variance exhibited the significant differences due to genotype for all the characters. (Table 1). The range, mean, variability estimates such as genotypic coefficient of variation, phenotypic coefficient of variation, heritability, genetic advance and genetic advance as percent of mean are presented in Table 2. The genotypic and phenotypic coefficients of variation are classified (low: less than 10%, moderate: 10-20% and high: more than 20%) as suggested by Sivasubramanian and Madhava Menon (1973). The values of genotypic and phenotypic coefficients of variation (GCV and PCV) were moderate for all the traits studied under except for the traits No. of productive tillers per plant, Panicle length (cm). All the characters except number of productive tillers per plant, Panicle length the difference between GCV and PCV was less, indicating little influence of environment on the expression of these characters as they are back cross derived lines.\r\nHeritability estimates are categorized (low: less than 30%, moderate: 30-60% and high: more than 60%) as recommended by Johnson et al. (1955). The range of genetic advance as percent of mean is classified (low: less than 10%, moderate: 10-20% and high: more than 20%) as suggested by Johnson et al. (1955). High heritability was observed for all the characters. High heritability coupled with high genetic advance as percent of mean was found for number of grains per panicle (Lingaiah et al., 2014; Islam et al., 2016; Lingaiah et al. 2018; Setu Rani Saha, 2019) indicating the preponderance of additive type of gene action for the expression of this character and selection may be effective for improving this character. High heritability accompanied with low genetic advance as percent of mean for all the characters except number of grains per panicle reflected preponderance of non-additive gene action and selection for this trait may not be rewarding. These results are in accordance with findings of Gampala et al. (2015); Rukmini Devi et al (2016); Edukondalu et al. (2017); Sahu et al. (2017); Singh and Verma (2018). Present study revealed that there was less amount of genetic variability in the traits except number of grains/panicle as the reason could be that they are back cross derived lines. \r\n','Bhukya Rambabu, N. Lingaiah, B. Satish Chandra, R. Shravan Kumar and Y. Hari (2022). Genetic Variability Studies in Advanced Backcross Derived Lines for Brown Plant Hopper and Blast Resistance in Rice (Oryza Sativa L.). Biological Forum – An International Journal, 14(2a): 386-388.'),(5167,'134','In silico Analysis of biomolecules produced by Bacterial Endophyte Bacillus velezensis YEBBR6 for the Management of Fusarium oxysporum f. sp. cubense','Krishna Nayana R.U.*, Nakkeeran S., Saranya N., Raveendran M., Saravanan R., Mahendra K. and Suhail Ashraf\r\n','64 In silico Analysis of biomolecules produced by Bacterial Endophyte Bacillus velezensis YEBBR6 for the Management of Fusarium oxysporum f. sp. cubense Krishna Nayana R U.pdf','',1,'Fusarium wilt is a major stumbling block to global banana production, and it is widely regarded as one of the most devastating diseases in agricultural history. Endophytes are organisms reported to be involved in resisting fungal pathogens and promoting growth. These organisms deploy a wide variety of mechanisms to induce resistance in plants. One such mechanism is the production of biomolecules during their confrontation with the pathogen inside the host. These biomolecules can be exploited for their antifungal activity. Bacillus velezensis YEBBR6 is one such endophyte isolated from the Panama wilt-resistant cultivar Yengambi KM5 (AAA). Biomolecules produced by them were analyzed for the antagonistic activity against Fusarium oxysporum f. sp. cubense using molecular docking approach. Molecular modeling of fungal protein targets and docking studies of those with the selected biomolecules were carried out. Among those screened, cefazolin was found to be having a higher affinity towards all the selected targets. Hence it may be exploited for the management of the disease after the confirmation of the same through wet-lab studies as well as field-level studies. ','Foc, Bacillus velezensis YEBBR6, biomolecules, Molecular modeling, docking, cefazolin','Computational modeling of the protein targets of Foc and docking of the same with the biomolecules produced by Foc antagonistic bacterial endophyte, B. velezensis YEBBR6 led to the unraveling of antifungal activity of biomolecule, cefazoline. The higher binding affinity towards the targets XRN2, FGB1 and FTF1indicates their ability to impede the functions of the targets and in turn affect the normal growth, proliferation, and virulence of Foc. Hence the in-silico analysis suggests that cefazoline can be explored for its antimycotic activity towards Foc.','INTRODUCTION\r\nBanana (Musaceae) is one of the most widely cultivated fruit crops in tropical nations, consumed across the world with a wide variety of applications in the food industry. Its massive by-products provide a wonderful supply of extremely valued raw materials for other businesses (Padam, 2012). In India, bananas rank first in terms of fruit production and third in terms of area. Across the world, it’s being cultivated in 135 countries and overseas territories in tropics and subtropics, among which India is the largest producer, with the production of about 31504000 tonnes in 2019 (FAOSTAT, 2020). The production and productivity of bananas are imperiled by a destructive disease, Panama wilt brought about by a soil-borne pathogen, Fusarium oxysporum f. sp. cubense (Stover et al., 1962), which was mentioned as Foc by W.C. Snyder & H.N. Hansen (Stover and Simmond 1987). Different races of pathogen emerged at different time periods with the first, Foc Race 1, which was identified in Australia in the 1870s at a farm near Brisbane (Bancroft, 1876). During the 1900s it gained importance globally as it spread to America, Africa, and the Far East where the Gros Michael cultivar was grown as a mono-crop. This led to the substitution of the same with the resistant Cavendish cultivar (Pleotz, 2015). But recently, the disease resurfaced in the Southeast Asian continent and Australia in the 1970s with the discovery of a new race of Foc, tropical race 4 (Foc TR4) affecting Cavendish cultivar in subtropics which was earlier resistant to the race 1, when grown under seasonal abiotic stress (Su et al., 1986; Ploetz and Pegg, 1997; Dita et al., 2018). In the tropics it was reported in the 1900s (Ploetz and Pegg 2000; Ploetz, 2006). Since then, the disease has spread throughout Southeast Asia, the Middle East, India, Pakistan, and Africa (Butler, 2013; Zheng et al., 2018)\r\nThe pathogen is a filamentous- saprophytic hemibiotrophic (Stover, 1962) with more than 20 vegetative compatible groups (Ploetz et al, 2011). It colonizes the plant via roots, clogs the vascular tissue, and causes the plant to wilt and eventually die (Pleotz et al., 2015). Reproduction is by vegetative means, and chlamydospores can live for more than 20 years in the absence of a host by succumbing to extremely hard conditions through thick-walled and desiccation-tolerant chlamydospores, making management more challenging (Dita et al., 2018; Pegg et al., 2019). Very few methods are available to date for the management of the pathogen with available ones not having long-term effects. Chemical methods posethreat to the other organisms in the environment (Gang et al., 2013) and soil sterilization using the same is practically strenuous in large commercial plantations and practiced only in greenhouses or in case of intensive cultivation (Shen et al., 2018). Whereas the existing biological control methods even though it is environment friendly, the lower efficacy against the chlamydospores remains the limitation for their successful application at the field level (Pegg et al., 2019). Even though resistant cultivars are an alternative for all the control measures, they could not meet consumer preferences (Mostert et al., 2017).\r\n In various agricultural and horticultural crops, biocontrol strategies including endophytes have been used in integrated disease management (Vinodkumar et al., 2015; Dheepa et al., 2016). Endophytes are microorganisms that live in the tissues of plants for their entire life and have mutualistic interactions with them, as well as those that do not produce any obvious signs of damage to the plant (Santoyo et al., 2016). These endophytes, which are thought to have originated from the rhizosphere, phylloplane microorganisms, or contaminated planting materials (Hallmann et al., 1997), provide their hosts with a variety of benefits, including nutrient intake, plant growth promotion, and disease resistance (Degrassi et al., 2020). They use a variety of strategies to combat pathogens, including mycoparasitism, competition for nutrients or root niches, antibiosis (the creation of secondary metabolites), quorum sensing and signalling, and activating host resistance mechanisms (Ryan et al., 2018). Bacterial endophytes were also reported in bananas. The higher antifungal activity of Brachybacterium paraconglomeratum YEBPT2, Brucella melitensis YEBPS3, Bacillus velezensis YEBBR6, and the one associated with nectar Bacillusalbus YEBN2 (61.1 per cent) from resistant cultivar was discovered during a search for those antagonistic to the pathogen in resistant and susceptible banana cultivars (Ravi et al., 2021). Biomolecules produced bythe endophyte Bacillus velezensis YEBBR6 was selected for investigating their potential in having antimycotic activity using docking studies that might subsequently be used for the management of the pathogen. This was accomplished by determining the behaviour and interaction of these biomolecules with the chosen fungal protein targets that are essential for either its life or parasitism. Through the in-silico method, the mode of action of the same will eventually be revealed.\r\nMATERIALS AND METHODS\r\nIdentification of target proteins. Based on literature mining and analysis, targets that were supposed to be required for normal development, pathogenesis, or virulence were chosen. This includes G protein ß subunit (FGB1) (Soundararajan et al., 2011), 5’→ 3´ Exoribonuclease 2 (XRN2) (Maldonado et al., 2018) and Fusarium transcription factor 1 (FTF1) (Ghang et al., 2014) (Table 1). After identifying possible antifungal targets of Foc, the interaction of the ligands with the protein targets was investigated.\r\nMolecular modeling of targets. There were no experimentally validated 3D structures for any of the selected protein targets, so computational modeling was performed using two bioinformatics workspaces. The sequences of targets were initially obtained in FASTA format from the UniProt database and then submitted for BLASTp analysis against the PDB database using NCBI\'s web BLAST. Query coverage and identity % of the BLASTp analysis resulted sequences were used to select different modeling servers. Template-based modeling servers used were SWISS-MODEL (Waterhouse et al., 2018) and whereas the comparative modeling-based server used was ROBETTA (Metaserver) (Kim et al., 2004). Those sequences whose BLASTp results had query coverage (>80%) and identity (>30%) were modeled with the homology-based modeling server SWISS Model. Insilico modeling was done with the help of the abinitio based ROBETTA server for those targets that did not have any homologous sequences from BLASTp analysis. The percentidentity, maximum coverage, and similarity of 30-50 percent between the target and template sequences, as well as a Global Mean Quality Estimation (GMQE) near 1, were chosen as parameters in the SWISS-MODEL to ensure the quality of the modeled structures. XRN2 and FGB1 are among the targets that have been simulated usingthe SWISS-MODEL server. The ROBETTA server was used to estimate the structures of the target, FTF1.\r\nValidation of protein structures. As backbone connectivity issues may lead to residual mistracings, residue misalignments or mis-registrations, side-chain misplacements, etc., in-silico-built models may contain improper bond connectivity and torsion angle. As a result of the same, atoms may be randomly positioned, which can be statistically differentiated or distinguished from the correct distributions. One approach used for this is the Ramachandran plot, which analyses peptide dihedral angles and returns residues that are beyond the energetically permissible ranges. The PROCHECK tool in SAVESv6.0 (Structural analysis and Verification server) was used to create the Ramachandran plot (SAVESv6.0 - Structure Validation Server (ucla.edu) (Laskowski et al., 1993).\r\nVisualization and Minimisation of energy of modeled targets. SWISS PDB Viewer was used for viewing and visualising the modeled structures in PDB format. Then, after choosing all of the residues, the \"energy minimisation\" option was selected from the tools menu for structural stabilization. The loops for those residues found in disallowed regions in the Ramachandran plot were then built.\r\nLigand preparation. The biomolecules cefazolin, succinic acid and furaneol were chosen for the analysis. Apart from these, tebuconazole was used as reference molecules to compare the efficacy of these selected molecules. The ligand structures were downloaded in SDF format from the PubChem database. \r\nMolecular Docking. Molecular docking is a modern bioinformatics approach that is mostly utilized to determine the mechanism of action of small compounds against possible protein targets in order to generate innovative therapeutic medicines for blocking or activating target proteins based on small molecule behavior. This is accomplished by placing small molecules in close proximity to potential protein targets and simulating their interactions with one another (Taylor et al., 2002). Molecular docking can be used to virtual screen a large number of new small molecules, making structure-based drug design easier and screening time shorter (Amaro and Mulholland 2018; Gao et al., 1998). Docking was used for investigating the binding affinities of proteins and biomolecules. PyRx 0.8, AutoDock Vina module was used to perform molecular docking. PyRx was used to convert targets into macromolecules of protein. Conjugate gradient, first-order derivatives of an optimization technique with 200 steps, and commercial molecular mechanics parameters-Unified Force Field were used to reduce all ligand structures (UFF). The Computed Atlas Topography of Proteins, CASTp 3.0 server was used to determine binding site pockets for the targets (Binkowski et al., 2003). Ligands were able to generate flexible conformations and orientations with an exhaustiveness of 8 when using a rigid receptor. Biomolecules with less than -5 kcal/mol binding energy with higher number of targets were chosen.\r\nDocked complex visualisation. BIOVIA discovery studio client 2021 was used to visualise the docked complex files. The software was used to access the modeled protein structure as well as the files acquired from docking of each ligand and associated protein, and ligand interactions were visualised and labelled after highlighting the ligand-binding site using the H-bond surface receptor. These files were saved as both discovery studio and picture files.\r\nRESULTS AND DISCUSSION\r\nPanama wilt even though reported in 1874 in Australia, emerged as a dreadful one in the 1950s where it became a menace for the “Gros Michael” banana cultivar plantations where it was grown as a mono-crop (Pleotz, 2015). Later on, the TR4 emerged as the most dreadful one which devastated the Cavendish cultivar that still dominates the world export market and is the only resistant cultivar to race 1 of the pathogen. With only a few methods to manage the disease that exists to date, there is a need for the continuous search for environment-friendly and practically feasible methods for the management.\r\nBacterial endophytes have been used in the biocontrol of many diseases of many important crops and they were found to be producing biomolecules during their interaction with the pathogen. So biomolecules produced by bacterial endophyte, B. velezensis YEBBR6 when dual cultured with Foc was subjected to molecular docking experiment to determine the effective ones with their mode of action and fungicidal effectiveness against potential virulent targets of Foc.\r\nModeling of proteins. G protein ß subunit (FGB1) was modeled using a template protein from PDB with ID 7CX2 that had a percentage identity of 52, a coverage of 94 percent, and a GMQE score of.83. The XRN2 was the second, with a template protein (PDB ID-3FQD) that had 51.57 percent identity, 84 percent coverage, and a GMQE score of 0.62 (Table 2). FTF1 (1079 residues) sequence was retrieved from UniProt and modeled using ROBETTA server with a confidence score of 0.36 (Table 3). Structures of the ligands and modeled protein targets are shown in Fig. 1.\r\nValidation of models. The validity of the modelled structures was checked using a Ramachandran plot obtained from the PROCHECK program of the SAVES server. According to the Ramachandran Plot, the target protein FGB1 has 87.3 percent of its residues in the most favorable region, 12.6 per cent in the additional allowed region, and 0.3 per cent in the generously allowed zone (Fig. 2). XRN2 had 84.8, 13.7, and 1.5 per cent residues in the most favored, additional allowed, and generously allowed regions, respectively (Fig. 3). The percentage of Fusarium transcription factor 1 target protein residues that fell within the most favoured region, additionally allowed region and generously allowed region, respectively, was 83.3, 15.2, and 1.5 per cent (Fig. 4).\r\nDocking\r\nCefazolin. Cefazolin was found to effectively inhibit the function of all the targets as they were having more affinity towards them, which was greater than tebuconazole (Fig. 5). Cefazolin had a binding affinity of -9.5 kcal/mol with XRN2 (H bonds- ALA A:110, ASP A:351, MET A:1, VAL A:348), -9.6 kcal/mol with FGB1 (H- bonds; ARG C: 167, TYR C: 75, GLN C: 251) and -6.6 kcal/mol with FTF1 (H-bonds; LEU A:570, CYS A:574) (Table 4) (Fig. 6). Greater affinity for XRN2 will impair the pathogen\'s normal mRNA turnover. 5´ → 3´ Exoribonuclease 2 uses divalent cations as cofactors to remove nucleoside monophosphates from 5\'-monophosphorylated RNA (Jinek et al., 2012). As a result, the pathogen\'s regular functioning and survival are jeopardized. XRN2 contributes to the processing of non-coding RNAs such as rRNA precursors (Geerling et al., 2000), the generation of snoRNAs (Petfalski et al., 1998), and the elimination of hypomodified tRNAs and helps in the proper functioning of translational machinery (Miki et al., 2013). In yeast, XRN2 is reported to be involved in breaking down the telomeric repeat-containing RNA (TERRA) whose accumulation will inhibit the activity of telomerase. Hence it is necessary for conserving the integrity of chromosomes as well as the length of telomere (Wang et al., 2015). As a result, the pathogen\'s regular growth and survival is harmed. Membrane protein, FGB1 (Fusarium Guanine Binding protein) is engaged in the signal transduction pathway that regulates biological processes. The activation of transmembrane receptors by effect or molecules is mediated by G protein subunits. This regulates gene expression, cellular function, metabolism, and blocking of the target (Gilman, 1987). Apart from these, FGB1 also influences cell differentiation, proliferation, pathogenicity, heat resistance, and germination percentage (Herbert and Mars 1990). In fungi, G protein signaling is supposed to be mediating processes like growth, maturation, and virulence (Lengeler et al., 2000). It has been suggested that fusarium transcription factor 1 (FTF1) is involved in the proliferation of fungi, as well as their maturation and the progression of the disease. In addition, they regulate the sexual and asexual development of the fungus (Jiang et al., 2011). So the binding affinity of cefazolin to the target FTF1 suggests that all the mentioned functions will be interrupted in the fungus. Similary, the active components of olive leaf extracts, thyme essential oil, and Boswellia carteri (Olibanum) essential oil were used to dock with 11 distinct protein targets of Fusarium oxysporum f sp. lactucae (FOL), which causes wilt in lettuce. Compounds such as carvacrol, -thujene, and thymol were discovered to have stronger affinity to the targets examined. The maximum binding affinity was shown by the carvacrol ligand, and it was also for the protein Hog1 (Omar et al., 2021). Six compunds derived from Cyamopsis tetragonoloba leaves and fruits were docked against the fungal protein targets lanosterol 14-demethylase of the pathogenic fungi Rhizoctonia solani and Drechslera oryzae. The target protein was most closely bound to stigmasterol and sitosterol (Sumeethsingh et al., 2022). In this study, cefazolin was having higher affinity towards the targets. Still these results need to be validated through the wet lab as well as field-level studies.\r\n','Krishna Nayana R.U., Nakkeeran S., Saranya N., Raveendran M., Saravanan R., Mahendra K. and Suhail Ashraf (2022). In silico Analysis of biomolecules produced by Bacterial Endophyte Bacillus velezensis YEBBR6 for the Management of Fusarium oxysporumf. sp. cubense. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 14(2a): 389-397.'),(5168,'134','In silico Analysis of biomolecules produced by Bacterial Endophyte Bacillus velezensis YEBBR6 for the Management of Fusarium oxysporum f. sp. cubense','Krishna Nayana R.U.*, Nakkeeran S., Saranya N., Raveendran M., Saravanan R.4, Mahendra K. and Suhail Ashraf\r\n','64 In silico Analysis of biomolecules produced by Bacterial Endophyte Bacillus velezensis YEBBR6 for the Management of Fusarium oxysporum f. sp. cubense Krishna Nayana R U.pdf','',4,'Fusarium wilt is a major stumbling block to global banana production, and it is widely regarded as one of the most devastating diseases in agricultural history. Endophytes are organisms reported to be involved in resisting fungal pathogens and promoting growth. These organisms deploy a wide variety of mechanisms to induce resistance in plants. One such mechanism is the production of biomolecules during their confrontation with the pathogen inside the host. These biomolecules can be exploited for their antifungal activity. Bacillus velezensis YEBBR6 is one such endophyte isolated from the Panama wilt-resistant cultivar Yengambi KM5 (AAA). Biomolecules produced by them were analyzed for the antagonistic activity against Fusarium oxysporum f. sp. cubense using molecular docking approach. Molecular modeling of fungal protein targets and docking studies of those with the selected biomolecules were carried out. Among those screened, cefazolin was found to be having a higher affinity towards all the selected targets. Hence it may be exploited for the management of the disease after the confirmation of the same through wet-lab studies as well as field-level studies. ','Foc, Bacillus velezensis YEBBR6, biomolecules, Molecular modeling, docking, cefazolin','Computational modeling of the protein targets of Foc and docking of the same with the biomolecules produced by Foc antagonistic bacterial endophyte, B. velezensis YEBBR6 led to the unraveling of antifungal activity of biomolecule, cefazoline. The higher binding affinity towards the targets XRN2, FGB1 and FTF1indicates their ability to impede the functions of the targets and in turn affect the normal growth, proliferation, and virulence of Foc. Hence the in-silico analysis suggests that cefazoline can be explored for its antimycotic activity towards Foc.','INTRODUCTION\r\nBanana (Musaceae) is one of the most widely cultivated fruit crops in tropical nations, consumed across the world with a wide variety of applications in the food industry. Its massive by-products provide a wonderful supply of extremely valued raw materials for other businesses (Padam, 2012). In India, bananas rank first in terms of fruit production and third in terms of area. Across the world, it’s being cultivated in 135 countries and overseas territories in tropics and subtropics, among which India is the largest producer, with the production of about 31504000 tonnes in 2019 (FAOSTAT, 2020). The production and productivity of bananas are imperiled by a destructive disease, Panama wilt brought about by a soil-borne pathogen, Fusarium oxysporum f. sp. cubense (Stover et al., 1962), which was mentioned as Foc by W.C. Snyder & H.N. Hansen (Stover and Simmond 1987). Different races of pathogen emerged at different time periods with the first, Foc Race 1, which was identified in Australia in the 1870s at a farm near Brisbane (Bancroft, 1876). During the 1900s it gained importance globally as it spread to America, Africa, and the Far East where the Gros Michael cultivar was grown as a mono-crop. This led to the substitution of the same with the resistant Cavendish cultivar (Pleotz, 2015). But recently, the disease resurfaced in the Southeast Asian continent and Australia in the 1970s with the discovery of a new race of Foc, tropical race 4 (Foc TR4) affecting Cavendish cultivar in subtropics which was earlier resistant to the race 1, when grown under seasonal abiotic stress (Su et al., 1986; Ploetz and Pegg, 1997; Dita et al., 2018). In the tropics it was reported in the 1900s (Ploetz and Pegg 2000; Ploetz, 2006). Since then, the disease has spread throughout Southeast Asia, the Middle East, India, Pakistan, and Africa (Butler, 2013; Zheng et al., 2018)\r\nThe pathogen is a filamentous- saprophytic hemibiotrophic (Stover, 1962) with more than 20 vegetative compatible groups (Ploetz et al, 2011). It colonizes the plant via roots, clogs the vascular tissue, and causes the plant to wilt and eventually die (Pleotz et al., 2015). Reproduction is by vegetative means, and chlamydospores can live for more than 20 years in the absence of a host by succumbing to extremely hard conditions through thick-walled and desiccation-tolerant chlamydospores, making management more challenging (Dita et al., 2018; Pegg et al., 2019). Very few methods are available to date for the management of the pathogen with available ones not having long-term effects. Chemical methods posethreat to the other organisms in the environment (Gang et al., 2013) and soil sterilization using the same is practically strenuous in large commercial plantations and practiced only in greenhouses or in case of intensive cultivation (Shen et al., 2018). Whereas the existing biological control methods even though it is environment friendly, the lower efficacy against the chlamydospores remains the limitation for their successful application at the field level (Pegg et al., 2019). Even though resistant cultivars are an alternative for all the control measures, they could not meet consumer preferences (Mostert et al., 2017).\r\n In various agricultural and horticultural crops, biocontrol strategies including endophytes have been used in integrated disease management (Vinodkumar et al., 2015; Dheepa et al., 2016). Endophytes are microorganisms that live in the tissues of plants for their entire life and have mutualistic interactions with them, as well as those that do not produce any obvious signs of damage to the plant (Santoyo et al., 2016). These endophytes, which are thought to have originated from the rhizosphere, phylloplane microorganisms, or contaminated planting materials (Hallmann et al., 1997), provide their hosts with a variety of benefits, including nutrient intake, plant growth promotion, and disease resistance (Degrassi et al., 2020). They use a variety of strategies to combat pathogens, including mycoparasitism, competition for nutrients or root niches, antibiosis (the creation of secondary metabolites), quorum sensing and signalling, and activating host resistance mechanisms (Ryan et al., 2018). Bacterial endophytes were also reported in bananas. The higher antifungal activity of Brachybacterium paraconglomeratum YEBPT2, Brucella melitensis YEBPS3, Bacillus velezensis YEBBR6, and the one associated with nectar Bacillusalbus YEBN2 (61.1 per cent) from resistant cultivar was discovered during a search for those antagonistic to the pathogen in resistant and susceptible banana cultivars (Ravi et al., 2021). Biomolecules produced bythe endophyte Bacillus velezensis YEBBR6 was selected for investigating their potential in having antimycotic activity using docking studies that might subsequently be used for the management of the pathogen. This was accomplished by determining the behaviour and interaction of these biomolecules with the chosen fungal protein targets that are essential for either its life or parasitism. Through the in-silico method, the mode of action of the same will eventually be revealed.\r\nMATERIALS AND METHODS\r\nIdentification of target proteins. Based on literature mining and analysis, targets that were supposed to be required for normal development, pathogenesis, or virulence were chosen. This includes G protein ß subunit (FGB1) (Soundararajan et al., 2011), 5’→ 3´ Exoribonuclease 2 (XRN2) (Maldonado et al., 2018) and Fusarium transcription factor 1 (FTF1) (Ghang et al., 2014) (Table 1). After identifying possible antifungal targets of Foc, the interaction of the ligands with the protein targets was investigated.\r\nMolecular modeling of targets. There were no experimentally validated 3D structures for any of the selected protein targets, so computational modeling was performed using two bioinformatics workspaces. The sequences of targets were initially obtained in FASTA format from the UniProt database and then submitted for BLASTp analysis against the PDB database using NCBI\'s web BLAST. Query coverage and identity % of the BLASTp analysis resulted sequences were used to select different modeling servers. Template-based modeling servers used were SWISS-MODEL (Waterhouse et al., 2018) and whereas the comparative modeling-based server used was ROBETTA (Metaserver) (Kim et al., 2004). Those sequences whose BLASTp results had query coverage (>80%) and identity (>30%) were modeled with the homology-based modeling server SWISS Model. Insilico modeling was done with the help of the abinitio based ROBETTA server for those targets that did not have any homologous sequences from BLASTp analysis. The percentidentity, maximum coverage, and similarity of 30-50 percent between the target and template sequences, as well as a Global Mean Quality Estimation (GMQE) near 1, were chosen as parameters in the SWISS-MODEL to ensure the quality of the modeled structures. XRN2 and FGB1 are among the targets that have been simulated usingthe SWISS-MODEL server. The ROBETTA server was used to estimate the structures of the target, FTF1.\r\nValidation of protein structures. As backbone connectivity issues may lead to residual mistracings, residue misalignments or mis-registrations, side-chain misplacements, etc., in-silico-built models may contain improper bond connectivity and torsion angle. As a result of the same, atoms may be randomly positioned, which can be statistically differentiated or distinguished from the correct distributions. One approach used for this is the Ramachandran plot, which analyses peptide dihedral angles and returns residues that are beyond the energetically permissible ranges. The PROCHECK tool in SAVESv6.0 (Structural analysis and Verification server) was used to create the Ramachandran plot (SAVESv6.0 - Structure Validation Server (ucla.edu) (Laskowski et al., 1993).\r\nVisualization and Minimisation of energy of modeled targets. SWISS PDB Viewer was used for viewing and visualising the modeled structures in PDB format. Then, after choosing all of the residues, the \"energy minimisation\" option was selected from the tools menu for structural stabilization. The loops for those residues found in disallowed regions in the Ramachandran plot were then built.\r\nLigand preparation. The biomolecules cefazolin, succinic acid and furaneol were chosen for the analysis. Apart from these, tebuconazole was used as reference molecules to compare the efficacy of these selected molecules. The ligand structures were downloaded in SDF format from the PubChem database. \r\nMolecular Docking. Molecular docking is a modern bioinformatics approach that is mostly utilized to determine the mechanism of action of small compounds against possible protein targets in order to generate innovative therapeutic medicines for blocking or activating target proteins based on small molecule behavior. This is accomplished by placing small molecules in close proximity to potential protein targets and simulating their interactions with one another (Taylor et al., 2002). Molecular docking can be used to virtual screen a large number of new small molecules, making structure-based drug design easier and screening time shorter (Amaro and Mulholland 2018; Gao et al., 1998). Docking was used for investigating the binding affinities of proteins and biomolecules. PyRx 0.8, AutoDock Vina module was used to perform molecular docking. PyRx was used to convert targets into macromolecules of protein. Conjugate gradient, first-order derivatives of an optimization technique with 200 steps, and commercial molecular mechanics parameters-Unified Force Field were used to reduce all ligand structures (UFF). The Computed Atlas Topography of Proteins, CASTp 3.0 server was used to determine binding site pockets for the targets (Binkowski et al., 2003). Ligands were able to generate flexible conformations and orientations with an exhaustiveness of 8 when using a rigid receptor. Biomolecules with less than -5 kcal/mol binding energy with higher number of targets were chosen.\r\nDocked complex visualisation. BIOVIA discovery studio client 2021 was used to visualise the docked complex files. The software was used to access the modeled protein structure as well as the files acquired from docking of each ligand and associated protein, and ligand interactions were visualised and labelled after highlighting the ligand-binding site using the H-bond surface receptor. These files were saved as both discovery studio and picture files.\r\nRESULTS AND DISCUSSION\r\nPanama wilt even though reported in 1874 in Australia, emerged as a dreadful one in the 1950s where it became a menace for the “Gros Michael” banana cultivar plantations where it was grown as a mono-crop (Pleotz, 2015). Later on, the TR4 emerged as the most dreadful one which devastated the Cavendish cultivar that still dominates the world export market and is the only resistant cultivar to race 1 of the pathogen. With only a few methods to manage the disease that exists to date, there is a need for the continuous search for environment-friendly and practically feasible methods for the management.\r\nBacterial endophytes have been used in the biocontrol of many diseases of many important crops and they were found to be producing biomolecules during their interaction with the pathogen. So biomolecules produced by bacterial endophyte, B. velezensis YEBBR6 when dual cultured with Foc was subjected to molecular docking experiment to determine the effective ones with their mode of action and fungicidal effectiveness against potential virulent targets of Foc.\r\nModeling of proteins. G protein ß subunit (FGB1) was modeled using a template protein from PDB with ID 7CX2 that had a percentage identity of 52, a coverage of 94 percent, and a GMQE score of.83. The XRN2 was the second, with a template protein (PDB ID-3FQD) that had 51.57 percent identity, 84 percent coverage, and a GMQE score of 0.62 (Table 2). FTF1 (1079 residues) sequence was retrieved from UniProt and modeled using ROBETTA server with a confidence score of 0.36 (Table 3). Structures of the ligands and modeled protein targets are shown in Fig. 1.\r\nValidation of models. The validity of the modelled structures was checked using a Ramachandran plot obtained from the PROCHECK program of the SAVES server. According to the Ramachandran Plot, the target protein FGB1 has 87.3 percent of its residues in the most favorable region, 12.6 per cent in the additional allowed region, and 0.3 per cent in the generously allowed zone (Fig. 2). XRN2 had 84.8, 13.7, and 1.5 per cent residues in the most favored, additional allowed, and generously allowed regions, respectively (Fig. 3). The percentage of Fusarium transcription factor 1 target protein residues that fell within the most favoured region, additionally allowed region and generously allowed region, respectively, was 83.3, 15.2, and 1.5 per cent (Fig. 4).\r\nDocking\r\nCefazolin. Cefazolin was found to effectively inhibit the function of all the targets as they were having more affinity towards them, which was greater than tebuconazole (Fig. 5). Cefazolin had a binding affinity of -9.5 kcal/mol with XRN2 (H bonds- ALA A:110, ASP A:351, MET A:1, VAL A:348), -9.6 kcal/mol with FGB1 (H- bonds; ARG C: 167, TYR C: 75, GLN C: 251) and -6.6 kcal/mol with FTF1 (H-bonds; LEU A:570, CYS A:574) (Table 4) (Fig. 6). Greater affinity for XRN2 will impair the pathogen\'s normal mRNA turnover. 5´ → 3´ Exoribonuclease 2 uses divalent cations as cofactors to remove nucleoside monophosphates from 5\'-monophosphorylated RNA (Jinek et al., 2012). As a result, the pathogen\'s regular functioning and survival are jeopardized. XRN2 contributes to the processing of non-coding RNAs such as rRNA precursors (Geerling et al., 2000), the generation of snoRNAs (Petfalski et al., 1998), and the elimination of hypomodified tRNAs and helps in the proper functioning of translational machinery (Miki et al., 2013). In yeast, XRN2 is reported to be involved in breaking down the telomeric repeat-containing RNA (TERRA) whose accumulation will inhibit the activity of telomerase. Hence it is necessary for conserving the integrity of chromosomes as well as the length of telomere (Wang et al., 2015). As a result, the pathogen\'s regular growth and survival is harmed. Membrane protein, FGB1 (Fusarium Guanine Binding protein) is engaged in the signal transduction pathway that regulates biological processes. The activation of transmembrane receptors by effect or molecules is mediated by G protein subunits. This regulates gene expression, cellular function, metabolism, and blocking of the target (Gilman, 1987). Apart from these, FGB1 also influences cell differentiation, proliferation, pathogenicity, heat resistance, and germination percentage (Herbert and Mars 1990). In fungi, G protein signaling is supposed to be mediating processes like growth, maturation, and virulence (Lengeler et al., 2000). It has been suggested that fusarium transcription factor 1 (FTF1) is involved in the proliferation of fungi, as well as their maturation and the progression of the disease. In addition, they regulate the sexual and asexual development of the fungus (Jiang et al., 2011). So the binding affinity of cefazolin to the target FTF1 suggests that all the mentioned functions will be interrupted in the fungus. Similary, the active components of olive leaf extracts, thyme essential oil, and Boswellia carteri (Olibanum) essential oil were used to dock with 11 distinct protein targets of Fusarium oxysporum f sp. lactucae (FOL), which causes wilt in lettuce. Compounds such as carvacrol, -thujene, and thymol were discovered to have stronger affinity to the targets examined. The maximum binding affinity was shown by the carvacrol ligand, and it was also for the protein Hog1 (Omar et al., 2021). Six compunds derived from Cyamopsis tetragonoloba leaves and fruits were docked against the fungal protein targets lanosterol 14-demethylase of the pathogenic fungi Rhizoctonia solani and Drechslera oryzae. The target protein was most closely bound to stigmasterol and sitosterol (Sumeethsingh et al., 2022). In this study, cefazolin was having higher affinity towards the targets. Still these results need to be validated through the wet lab as well as field-level studies.\r\n','Krishna Nayana R.U., Nakkeeran S., Saranya N., Raveendran M., Saravanan R., Mahendra K. and Suhail Ashraf (2022). In silico Analysis of biomolecules produced by Bacterial Endophyte Bacillus velezensis YEBBR6 for the Management of Fusarium oxysporumf. sp. cubense. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 14(2a): 389-397.'),(5169,'132','New records of myxomycetes (Amoebozoa) from Colombia','Carlos Rojas1, María Carolina García-Chaves2','4_JNBR_11_1_2022.pdf','',4,'Colombia is located in one the megadiverse regions of the world. However, the number of known species of\r\nmyxomycetes for this territory is low when compared to similar countries in the same region. The most important\r\nreason for such pattern is the systematic undersampling of ecosystems in that part of the world. For that reason,\r\nefforts to document the myxobiota of Colombia were set in place as part of collaborative initiatives among\r\nacademic institutions in the region. Surveys focusing both on field collections and material for moist chamber\r\ncultures during the period between 2019-2021 as well as a search of vouchers in recognized herbaria yielded a\r\ntotal of 28 new records of myxomycetes for Colombia, most of which belong to the genera Arcyria, Physarum\r\nand Stemonitopsis. These results have increased the number of recognized myxomycetes in Colombian territories\r\nfrom 106 to 134, with an associated increment of about 26% directly related to the latest efforts. Similar surveys\r\nin different ecosystems in Colombia and more exploration of Colombian collections will likely increase the\r\nnumber of recognized species of myxomycetes even more, but the present study highlights the importance of\r\nestablishing a baseline of research in one territory as a strategy to document its biota.','myxogastrids, northern Andes, South America, slime molds.','\\','Arbeláez-Cortes, E. 2013. Knowledge of Colombian\r\nbiodiversity: published and indexed. Biodivers\r\nConserv 22: 2875-2906.\r\nBrummitt, N., Nic Lughadha, E. 2003. Biodiversity:\r\nWhere\'s Hot and Where\'s Not. Conserv Biol\r\n17(5): 1442-1448.\r\nClerici, N., Richardson, J.E., Escobedo, F.J., Posada,\r\nJ.M., Linares, M., Sánchez, A., Vargas, J.F.\r\n2016. Colombia: Dealing in Conservation.\r\nScience 354 (6309): 190.\r\nEstrada-Torres, A., Wrigley de Basanta, D., Conde, E.\r\nand Lado, C. 2009. Myxomycetes associated\r\nwith dryland ecosystems of the TehuacánCuicatlán Valley Biosphere Reserve, Mexico.\r\nFungal Divers 36: 17-56.\r\nFarr, M.L. 1976. Flora Neotropica Monograph No. 16\r\nMyxomycetes. New York Botanical Garden,\r\nNew York.\r\nFernández, F. 2011. The greatest impediment to the\r\nstudy of biodiversity in Colombia. Caldasia\r\n33(2): iii-v.\r\nGibbons, S.M., Gilbert, J.A. 2015. Microbial diversity\r\n— exploration of natural ecosystems and\r\nmicrobiomes. Curr Opin Genet Dev 35: 66-72.\r\nKeller, H. W., Everhart, S. E., Kilgore, C. M. 2021. The\r\nmyxomycetes: introduction, basic biology, life\r\ncycles, genetics, and reproduction. In: Rojas, C.,\r\nStephenson, S.L. (eds.). Myxomycetes:\r\nbiology, systematics, biogeography and\r\necology. pp 1-45. Academic Press, London.\r\nLado, C. 2005-2022. An on line nomenclatural\r\ninformation system of Eumycetozoa. Real\r\nJardín Botánico, CSIC. Madrid, Spain.\r\nhttps://eumycetozoa.com (2 April 2022).\r\nLado, C., Wrigley de Basanta, D. 2008. A Review of\r\nNeotropical Myxomycetes (1828-2008). An\r\nJardin Bot Madrid 65(2): 211-254.\r\nLado, C., Wrigley de Basanta, D., Estrada-Torres, A.,\r\nStephenson, S.L. 2013. The biodiversity of myxomycetes in central Chile. Fungal Divers\r\n59: 3-32.\r\nLado, C., Wrigley de Basanta, D., Estrada-Torres, A.,\r\nStephenson, S.L. 2016. Myxomycete diversity\r\nin the coastal desert of Peru with emphasis on\r\nthe lomas formations. An Jardin Bot Madrid\r\n73(1): e032.\r\nLado, C., Rojas, C. 2018. Diversity patterns, ecological\r\nassociations and future of research on Costa\r\nRican myxomycetes, Mycology 9(4): 250-263.\r\nNoreña-P, A., González-Muñoz, A., MosqueraRendón, J., Botero, K., Cristancho, M. A. 2018.\r\nColombia, an unknown genetic diversity in the\r\nera of Big Data. BMC Genomics 19: 859.\r\nMartin, G.W. 1934. Myxomycetes from Colombia. T\r\nAm Micros Soc 57(2): 123-126.\r\nMartin, G.W., Alexopoulos, C.J. 1969.\r\nTheMyxomycetes. University of Iowa Press,\r\nIowa City.\r\nMonfils, A.K., Powers, K.E., Marshall, C.J., Martine,\r\nC.T., Smith, J.F., Prather, L.A. 2017. Natural\r\nHistory Collections: Teaching about\r\nBiodiversity Across Time, Space, and Digital\r\nPlatforms. Southeast Nat 16(sp10): 47-57.\r\nMyCoPortal. 2022. Mycology Collections Portal.\r\nUnited States of America.\r\nhttp://www.mycoportal.org/portal/index.php.\r\n(29 March 2022).\r\nPoulain, M., Meyer, M., Bozonet, J. 2011. Les\r\nMyxomycètes. Sarl Editions FMDS, France.\r\nRojas, C., Stephenson, S.L., Estrada-Torres, A.,\r\nValverde, R., Morales, O. 2010. New records of myxomycetes from high-elevation areas of\r\nMexico and Guatemala. Mycosphere 1: 73-82.\r\nRojas, C., Herrera, N., Stephenson, S.L. 2012. An\r\nupdate on the myxomycete biota (Amoebozoa:\r\nMyxogastria) of Colombia. Checklist 8: 617-\r\n619.\r\nRojas, C., Lado, C., Rojas, P.A. 2018. Myxomycete\r\ndiversity in Costa Rica. Mycosphere 9(2): 227-\r\n255.\r\nSchnittler, M., Stephenson, S.L. 2002. Inflorescences\r\nof Neotropical herbs as a newly discovered\r\nmicrohabitat for myxomycetes. Mycologia\r\n94(1): 6-20.\r\nStephenson, S.L., Stempen, H. 1994. Myxomycetes: a\r\nhandbook of slime molds. Timber Press,\r\nOregon.\r\nUribe-Meléndez, J. 1995. Catálogo de los\r\nMyxomycetes registrados para Colombia.\r\nCaldasia 18: 23-26.\r\nWalker, L.M., Leontyev, D.V., Stephenson, S.L. 2015.\r\nPerichaena longipes, a new myxomycete from\r\nthe Neotropics. Mycologia 107(5): 1012-1022.\r\nWilson, J.R.U., Procheş, Ş., Braschler, B., Dixon, E.S.,\r\nRichardson, D.M. 2007. The (bio)diversity of\r\nscience reflects the interests of society. Front\r\nEcol Environ 5(8): 409-414.\r\nWood, M. 2008. \"WebWatch: Observing Mushrooms\".\r\nFungi Mag 1(2): 9.\r\nWrigley de Basanta, D., Stephenson, S.L., Lado, C.,\r\nEstrada-Torres, A. and Nieves-Rivera, A.M.\r\n2008. Lianas as a microhabitat for\r\nmyxomycetes in tropical forests. Fungal Divers\r\n28: 109-125.','Rojas C, García-Chaves MC. 2022. New records of myxomycetes (Amoebozoa) from Colombia. J\r\nNew Biol Rep 11 (1): 10 – 15.'),(5170,'134','In vitro Studies on the Nematophagous fungus Clonostachys rosea (TNAU CR 01) against Meloidogyne incognita, a Root-knot Nematode','Shaliha B.*, G. Jothi, N. Swarnakumari and L. Rajendran','65 In vitro Studies on the Nematophagous fungus Clonostachys rosea _TNAU CR 01_ against Meloidogyne incognita, a Root-knot Nematode SHALIHA B.pdf','',1,'Meloidogyne incognita larval mortality and egg hatching were investigated using Clonostachys rosea culture filtrate. Higher concentrations of the fungal culture filtrate infested M. incognita juveniles and impaired egg hatching. The hatching rate of M. incognita eggs decreased as concentrations increased. Due to the lytic effect the morphological alteration of embryo and eggshell with hyphal penetration and internal egg colonization were observed. When compared to control, culture filtrate of C. rosea was found effective against the nematode M. incognita in terms of J2 mortality (100 percent), egg hatching inhibition (94.12 percent), and parasitization of M. incognita eggs (76.94 percent) after 96 hours of exposure time, indicating high biocontrol capability against the root knot nematode, M. incognita. Similarly different dilutions of culture filtrate significantly inhibited hatching of M. incognita eggs and larval emergence was inversely proportional to filtrate concentrations.','Clonostachys rosea, culture filtrate, in vitro; Meloidogyne incognita, parasitism, bio-control agent, nematophagous fungus','To summarise, the current study found that Clonostachys rosea efficiently decreased egg hatchability and mortality of infective juveniles of root knot nematode and parasitized M. incognita eggs under in vitro studies.','INTRODUCTION\r\nNematodes belong to the phylum Nematoda (Kingdom Animalia), which has over 25,000 species with a wide range of feeding habits, including animal-parasitic, plant-parasitic, bacterivorous, fungivorous, omnivorous, and predatory (Blaxter, 2003). Plant-parasitic nematodes are a major global hazard in field crops, vegetables, and fruit crops (Singh and Kumar, 2015). When compared to other plant parasitic nematodes that are polyphagous, endoparasites, and sedentary vascular root feeders, root knot nematodes (Meloidogyne spp.) are considered cryptic adversaries (Sharon et al., 2001). \r\nMeloidogyne arenaria, M. incognita, M. hapla, and M. javanica, four common species of this genus have been identified as dangerous (Dong et al., 2014). M. incognita is the most dangerous of these species due to its wide host range, rapid reproduction rate, potential to cause complex diseases in collaboration with other pathogens, and quick generation time (Vos et al., 2013). Pandey and Nayak (2018) discovered that M. incognita alters host metabolic processes, causing alterations in the infected host at the cellular, physiological, and biochemical levels which are difficult to manage.\r\nNematicides based chemicals have been used to control plant-parasitic nematodes, which is now restricted due to environmental concerns, nematode resistance development (Abad et al., 2008), high costs, toxicity to plants, livestock, and biodiversity (Beketov et al., 2013). The need for more ecofriendly alternatives, such as the use of microorganisms such as fungi, bacteria, protozoa, viruses, nematodes, and mites and their derivatives from various sources, is urgent because most synthetic nematicides will likely be withdrawn from the market soon (Sarrocco & Vannaci 2018).\r\nIn the soil, nematophagous fungi are commonly associated with nematodes. These fungi either actively parasitize nematodes with sticky branches, networks, knobs, constricting and non-constricting rings, or indirectly assault them by releasing harmful chemicals and enzymes (Zouhar et al., 2013). \r\nClonostachys is a mycoparasite and opponent of pathogenic fungi, insects, and parasitic nematodes that is well known (Goh et al., 2020). Clonostachys rosea (syn. Gliocladium roseum) fungi are microscopic fungus that has been used as a biological agent to control plant parasitic nematodes (Trainer et al., 2014). C. rosea has showed potential lethal effects against M. incognita under in vitro condition (Wang et al., 2011). In this study, in vitro investigations such as egg hatching inhibition, juvenile mortality, egg parasitization, and parasitization in bittergourd against root knot nematode have been assessed to study the biocontrol potential of the nematophagous fungus C. rosea.\r\nMATERIALS AND METHODS\r\nA. Pure culture of root knot nematode\r\nRoot knot nematodes were grown and maintained as pure culture in tomato plants under glasshouse conditions at the Department of Nematology, TNAU, Coimbatore. After confirming the species of root knot nematodes, egg masses were obtained from diseased roots, placed in a beaker containing sterile distilled water and allowed to develop for 4 days at room temperature. The clay pots were filled with a sterile pot mixture at the ratio of red soil, sand and FYM as 2:1:1. Root knot nematode juveniles were introduced at the root area of 25-day-old tomato seedlings. The pure culture egg masses were collected for future studies. \r\nMorphological Identification of M. incognita through the Posterior Cuticular Pattern \r\nPosterior Cuticular Pattern (PCP) was used to identify the species of root knot nematode. The root portions were stained with acid-fuchsin lactophenol, which was followed by a 24-hour period of plain lactophenol to remove the stain from the root tissue. The stained female posterior cuticular pattern, which includes a high dorsal arch of smooth to wavy striae but no obvious lateral incisures, identified it as M. incognita (Eisenback et al., 1981).\r\nPure culture of fungus \r\nClonostachys rosea (TNAU CR 01) was isolated from Ooty and provided by the Department of Nematology, TNAU, Coimbatore. Potato Dextrose Agar (PDA) medium was used to develop and maintain the fungus. \r\nFungalculture filtrate preparation \r\nC. rosea culture filtrate was produced by culturing the fungus in potato dextrose broth. The PDB medium (100 mL in 250 mL flasks) was autoclaved for 30 minutes at 15 psi. Each flask was then infected with four (5mm diameter) scoops of the fungus from an actively developing culture on Potato Dextrose Agar under sterile conditions and incubated at 25°C for 10 days. The cultures were passed through Whatmann filter paper No. 1 at the conclusion of the incubation period to remove the mycelial mats. The resulting filtrate was assigned a concentration of 100 percent. By adding the required amount of sterilized distilled water, the concentration was prepared as 25, 50, 75, and 100 percent.\r\nIncubation test. Three ml of culture filtrate from each concentration was pipetted to 4.5cm diameter petri plates to study the effect of different concentrations of C. rosea culture filtrate on egg hatching of M. incognita. Three egg masses of M. incognita of uniform size were hand-picked and placed in each dish. As a control, egg masses were put in distilled water. Each treatment was carried out four times. The temperature of each petri dish was maintained at 25 °C. After 24, 48, 72, and 96 hours, data on egg hatching was collected. To compare the impact of culture filtrate with that of the medium, the same method was done using potato dextrose broth.\r\nEgg hatching inhibition (%) =(Total number of unhatched eggs)/(Total number of eggs) × 100\r\nTest for mortality. Three ml of culture filtrate from each concentration was placed into each petri dish, and roughly 100 freshly hatched second stage juveniles of M. incognita in 0.2 ml distilled water were transferred to each petri dish to evaluate the effect of varying concentrations of the culture filtrate on juvenile mortality. As a control, juveniles were placed in distilled water. Each treatment was replicated four times. To compare the effect of culture filtrate and plain medium, the number of dead (unmoved) larvae in each petri dish was counted after 24, 48, 72, and 96 hours, and their percentage were calculated. \r\nMortality (%) = (Number of dead juveniles in treatment )/(Number of juveniles inoculated) × 100\r\nParasitization of eggs. Each egg mass was placed in a petri plate with fungal culture before being incubated at 25±2°C. At 24, 48, 72, and 96 hours, observations were made. There were four replicates and the control eggmass in distilled water. Counting parasitized and non-parasitized eggs under a microscope were done to determine the % egg parasitism. Eggs that were infected by direct hyphal penetration or disintegration of their contents were considered as infected, but eggs that contained living juveniles or eggs from which juveniles had hatched were counted as viable (Khan, Williams, and Nevalainen 2006).\r\nEgg parasitism (%) =(Total parasitized eggs)/(Total number of eggs) × 100\r\nPenetration study. The study was to observe the effect of C. rosea on root knot nematode penetration in bittergourd. Fungal culture filtrate (5.4×107 spores/ml) was used to inoculate fifteen days old bittergourd seedlings. 100 second-stage juveniles were injected after 7 days. Plants without fungus served as a control. The observations were taken every 24 hours. Uprooted roots were dyed with acid fuchsin – lactophenol and then destaining was done with ordinary lactophenol.\r\nData Analysis. The AGRES programme was used to analyze the data from the above-mentioned studies, and Duncan\'s Multiple Range Test was used to interpret the significant means (Fisher, 1935). p=0.01 was considered as the level of significance. When the \"F\" test was determined to be significant, critical difference (CD) values were generated for p=0.01.\r\n \r\n\r\n\r\n \r\nRESULTS AND DISCUSSION \r\nThe analysis of variance revealed a significant interaction between filtrates and concentrations (F × C), filtrates and time interval (F × T), concentrations and time (C × T), and among filtrates, their concentrations, and time (F × C × T).\r\nEffect of culture filtrates on Meloidogyne incognita egg hatching. The results revealed that there were substantial variations (p=0.01) in the concentrations of different culture filtrates. In addition, the hatching rates of M. incognita eggs were inversely linked to the concentrations of filtrates, indicating that the hatching rate reduced as the concentrations increased. After four days, control eggs had the highest hatch rate (96.54%) while eggs treated with 100 percent concentration of C. rosea culture filtrate had the lowest hatch rate (5.87%) (Table 1).\r\nThe hatching of M. incognita eggs was considerably suppressed by various dilutions of the culture filtrate. Percentage of hatching was inhibited the most at 100 percent (94.12) and 75 percent (87.37) concentrations of culture filtrate, followed by 50 percent (85.5). According to Singh and Mathur (2010), eggs that contained juveniles and seemed normal as well as eggs from which juveniles had hatched out were counted as healthy. Eggs that were contaminated by direct hyphal penetration or by the dissolution of their contents were counted as infested. Egg hatching of M. incognita in varied concentrations of the medium filtrate was statistically equal in distilled water, it was inferred that the medium lacked ovistatic or ovicidal properties. Pochonia chlamydosporia showed highest egg parasitism, egg hatch inhibition and juvenile mortality of M. incognita at 25, 50, 75 and 100 percent concentrations (Annapurna et al., 2018). \r\nEffect of culture filtrate on Meloidogyne incognita juvenile mortality. The concentration of fungal filtrates and the length of exposure were shown to be directly linked to juvenile mortality. At 100 percent concentration of C. rosea, greatest death rate of J2 (63.75 percent) occurred after 24 hours of exposure. \r\nThe mortality of juveniles increased as the concentrations of the filtrates progressively increased. After 96 hours of exposure at 100% concentration of C. rosea filtrate, the maximum mortality (100%) occurred. In C. rosea filtrate at 25% concentration, the lowest mortality was 62.75 percent (Table 2). The findings also revealed that M. incognita second-stage juveniles were more susceptible to these fungus secondary metabolites. The percentage of highest levels of juvenile mortality were seen in the culture filtrate concentrations of 100 percent (100.00) and 75 percent (86.25), followed by 50 percent (76.75). Nematodes that were rigid and elongated with head and tail sometimes slightly bent were considered as immobilized and if they did not react when probed with a fine needle were considered as paralyzed\r\nThe most promising fungus for controlling M. incognita was C. rosea, and its nematicidal impact was proven (Wang et al., 2011). This fungus may generate a huge number of conidia in a short period of time, which adhere to nematodes and germinate in the body cavity. Proteases, collagenase, and chitinase are hydrolytic enzymes produced by the fungus, and they may be implicated in nematode cuticle penetration and host cell disintegration. Hussain (2017) found that incubation in C. rosea resulted in 70.2 percent inactivation of M. hapla J2 after 48 hours and an 86 percent inactivation after 72 hours.\r\nM. incognita egg parasitization. In the study of egg parasitization, C. rosea had the highest rate (63.97%) (Table 3). The egg shells of the fungi-infested eggs disintegrated and shrank abnormally. Immature eggs that had been parasitized by fungus had destroyed embryos, protruding interior contents, and spores filled the eggs. The eggs, either infected by direct hyphal penetration or disintegration of their contents, were counted as parasitized (Khan, Williams, and Nevalainen 2006), while eggs that contained live juveniles and eggs from which juveniles had hatched were counted as unparasitized. Due to lytic effect the morphological alteration of embryo and eggshell, with hyphal penetration and internal colonization were observed. Filtrates from cultures of Fusarium spp., Paecilomyces lilacinus, and Pochonia chlamydosporia were toxic to M. incognita second stage juveniles, inhibited hatching and/or suppressed egg or J2 populations on plants (Meyer et al., 2004).\r\nC. rosea effect on juvenile penetration. Under glass house conditions, second stage juvenile penetration on bittergourd roots were observed up to 7 days after inoculation (DAI) on 3, 4, 5, and 7 DAI. The number of nematode penetration in C. rosea treated seedlings was reduced considerably by 78.82 percent, 80.43 percent, 81.20 percent, 75.56 percent and 76.94 percent respectively, compared to control (Table 4).\r\nRegardless of DAI, C. rosea prevented juvenile penetration in roots, according to the outcomes. C. rosea showed the greatest decrease (76.94 percent) after 7 days when compared to the control. In order to promote colonization and provide resistance against harmful interactions, fungal partners release bioactive molecules such enzymes, short peptide effectors, and secondary metabolites (Zeilinger et al., 2015). Antibiosis, direct parasitism, and enzyme secretion are the techniques used by C. rosea to kill nematodes (Iqbal et al., 2018). Its hyphae can parasitize M. incognita eggs and adults. Conidia adhere to the nematode\'s cuticle at first, then germinate and pierce the nematode\'s cuticle, killing it (Zhang et al., 2008). The production of nematotoxic secondary metabolites has also been described, however the precise site of action has yet to be determined (Song et al., 2016). \r\nApproximately 38 metabolites from C. rosea have been described so far, with a considerable structural variation (Abdel-Wahab et al., 2019; Supratman et al., 2019). Gliocladin C and 5-n-heneicosyl resorcinol displayed nematotoxic action against zooparasitic nematodes (Song et al., 2016). C. rosea mode of action against nematodes, according to Iqbal et al. (2018), is antibiosis rather than parasitism. Chitinase and proteases are enzymes that hydrolyze the nematode cell wall’s-(1-4) glycosidic linkages (Yang et al., 2010).\r\nNematicidal action of culture filtrates of V. chlamydosporium against M. javanica may be attributed to the production of certain enzymes (Segers et al., 1994) and toxins like Verticillin A, B and C which help in weakening and dissolving the barriers of its hosts. Species of Aspergillus, Penicillium, Talaromyces, Curvularia and Aternaria are known to produce toxins and antibiotics like aflatoxin, penicillin, vermiculin, vermicillin, talaron, vermistatin, viridin, fusaricacid, rhizopin, lilacinin, leucinostatin, P-168 and phytoalternarin. \r\nThe findings showed that the Clonostachys rosea fungus parasitizes nematodes by excreting chemicals that can paralyze or kill J2 of the root-knot nematode, M. incognita. A number of nematophagous fungi are known to have proteolytic and chitinolytic activities which cause alteration in eggs’ cuticular structure, changes in egg shell permeability or cause perforations in the cuticle which allows seepage of toxic metabolites into the eggs and cause physiological disorders (Tariq Mukhtar and Ijaz Pervaz 2003).\r\n','Shaliha B., G. Jothi, N. Swarnakumari and L. Rajendran (2022). In vitro Studies on the Nematophagous fungus Clonostachys rosea (TNAU CR 01) against Meloidogyne incognita, a Root-knot Nematode. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 14(2a): 398-408.'),(5171,'134','Seed Borne Nature of Begomoviruses Infecting Bitter gourd in Tamil Nadu','R. Gomathi Devi*, P. Renukadevi, G. Karthikeyan, S. Lakshmi, A. Sankari and S. Sundaravadana','66 Seed Borne Nature of Begomoviruses Infecting Bitter gourd in Tamil Nadu R.Gomathi Devi.pdf','',1,'Bitter gourd is a major cucurbitaceous crop that serves as a natural host for many viruses. Especially in recent decades, the crop was severely affected by begomoviruses such as tomato leaf curl New Delhi virus and Bitter gourd yellow mosaic virus (ToLCNDV & BgYMV) in various regions of country. The presence and amount of virus titre in different parts of seeds of a predominant hybrid grown by the farmers was analysed by DAS – ELISA. The virus titre is high in endosperm 0.22 to 1.86 followed by seed coat and embryo with OD values of 0.27 to 1.59 and 0.24 to 1.50 respectively. The presence of virus in the embryo is the major criterion for the successful transmission of the begomoviruses to the progeny which results in a rapid and high infection rate and also serves as an inoculum source for transmission by whiteflies.','Bitter gourd, seeds, begomoviruses, DAS – ELISA','The study strongly infers the seed borne nature of begomoviruses infecting bittergourd and virus detection in embryo of hybrid seeds indicates that there is maximum chance of seed transmission. An in-depth analysis is pre request to produce virus free seeds.','INTRODUCTION\r\nBitter gourd (Momordica charantia L), also referred as bitter cucumber, balsam pear, bitter melon, bitter squash belongs to the family Cucurbitaceae. It is an important vegetable in south Indian states originated in Indo-Burma region. Recently, continuous cultivation of bitter gourd resulted in serious yield loss due to numerous fungal, bacterial, and viral illnesses. The important viral diseases, reported in bitter gourd includes papaya ring spot virus (Chin et al., 2007; González Vera et al., 2003; Ohtsu, 1988), cucumber mosaic virus (Takami et al., 2006), watermelon silver mottle virus (Tokashiki, 1991), zucchini yellow mosaic virus (Ohtsu, 1988), watermelon mosaic virus-1 (Tomar and Jitendra 2005), Indian cassava mosaic virus (Rajinimala et al., 2005), Cucurbit leaf crumple virus and Squash vein yellowing virus (Adkins et al., 2008), Melon yellow spot virus (Takeuchi et al., 2009), Pepper leaf curl Bangladesh virus (Raj et al., 2010) . In India bitter gourd has been plagued by severe yellow mosaic disease for the past decade. The symptoms such as yellowing, leaf lamina distortion, puckering, and stunting are produced and found to be transmitted by whitefly Bemesia tabaci (Fig. 1). Tomato leaf curl New Delhi virus, Ageratum enation virus (AEV), Squash leaf curl China virus (SLCCNV), Coccinia mosaic Tamil Nadu virus (CoMoV), Tomato leaf curl Palampur virus (ToLCPalV) and Bitter gourd yellow mosaic virus are the six important begomovirus species discovered which are linked to different cucurbitaceous crops (Manivannan et al., 2018).\r\nBegomoviruses are non-enveloped viruses with twinned (geminate) para icosahedral particles measuring 22×38 nm in diameter and 2.5-3 kb of single-stranded circular DNA. Their genomes are either monopartite or bipartite. On the basis of hosts, vectors and genome organization, fourteen genera are differentiated within the family; the genera are Becurtovirus, Begomovirus, Capulovirus, Curtovirus, Eragrovirus, Grablovirus, Mastrevirus, Topocuvirus Turncuurtovirus, Citlodavirus, Maldovirus, Mulcrilevirus, Opunvirus and Topilevirus. Bidirectional transcription occurs in circular single-stranded DNA, with coat protein encoded on the sense strand and replication initiation protein on the complementary strand (Philippe et al., 2021)\r\nBegomoviruses were formerly thought not to be seed transmissible, because they were confined to phloem tissue. The reports of seed transmission of begomoviruses such as Sweet potato leaf curl virus (SPLCV) (Kim et al., 2015), Tomato yellow leaf curl virus (TYLCV) (Kil et al., 2016), Mungbean yellow mosaic virus (MYMV) (Kothandaraman et al., 2016), Tomato leaf curl New Delhi Virus (ToLCNDV) (Manivannan et al., 2019), Dolichos yellow mosaic virus (DoYMV) (Suruthi et al.,2018), Sweet potato symptomless virus 1 (SPSMV-1) (Qiao et al., 2020), Pepper yellow leaf curl Indonesia virus (PepYLCIV) (Fadhila et al., 2020) contradicts with earlier reports.\r\nIn the case of bitter gourd, Bitter gourd yellow mosaic virus (BgYMV) was reported to be seed transmissible with seed infectivity range of 79.16% and the transmission rate to seedling was 32.05% (Manivannan et al., 2018). In the fields surveyed during (2016 – 2017), the disease incidence was 100%, and the fruits were severely deformed, lowering the marketable yield. The present study investigates the virus titre in different parts of bitter gourd hybrid seeds by DAS – ELISA, which will provide information about seed borne nature of begomovirus in hybrid seeds which is widely grown by farmers.\r\nMATERIALS AND METHODS\r\nHybrid seeds of bitter gourd purchased from market were subjected to double antibody sandwich – Enzyme linked immune sorbent assay DAS-ELISA (Clark and Adams, 1977). Totally 27 seeds as three different parts viz., seed coat, endosperm, embryo and 7 whole seeds were tested. In this study, healthy bitter gourd plants grown under insect proof conditions were included as negative control, which were tested negative for Roja’s primer. Symptomatic leaves from the field were collected and used as a positive control. The presence of begomovirus was confirmed using DAS-ELISA (Swanson et al., 1992). Microtitre plates with 96 wells were used to perform DAS-ELISA utilising ToLCNDV polyclonal antibody (DSMZ, DAS ELISA kit, cat. no. # AS-1109) (Micro Test Plate Flat bottom, Tarson Pvt. Ltd, Kolkata, India). ToLCNDV IgG (AS1109) was diluted to 1:1000 in coating buffer and100μl of diluted antibody was added into individual wells of ELISA plate and incubated at 37°C for 4 hours. Plates were washed thrice with PBS-T at 3 min interval. The seeds were soaked overnight and the seed parts were separated as seed coat, endosperm, embryo and whole seeds were ground thoroughly in a sterile pestle and mortar with general extraction buffer (50 mM Tris, 10 mM EDTA, pH 8.0, 2% PVP) at 1 ml/g of sample. Each sample was replicated thrice. The extract was allowed to sit on ice so that debris will settle on bottom and clear aqueous will be obtained. 100 µl of extract prepared from each sample was added into the individual wells of ELISA plate and incubated at 4 °C overnight. Plates were washed thrice with PBS-T at 3 min interval. 100 µl of IgG enzyme conjugate (AS1109 IgG – AP) diluted at 1:500 dilution in Enzyme conjugate buffer was added to each well and incubated at 37°C for 4 hours.100 µl of p-nitro phenyl phosphate (p-NPP) substrate (Sigma Aldrich, USA) was added to each well and incubated in dark condition for 30 min. For each sample, three replications were maintained. Optical density (OD) was recorded at 405 nm 1 hr after the addition of substrate. Absorbance value which is twice more than the values obtained in the healthy control were considered as a positive reaction.\r\nRESULTS\r\nIn DAS ELISA conducted for whole seeds, all the seven seed samples were positive with OD value of 1.08, 1.65, 1.75, 2.02, 1.00, 1.05 and 1.42 as compared to negative control (0.48). In the case of seed parts tested, among 27 samples tested, 10 seed coats were positive with OD value of 1.10 - 1.61, 14 endosperms were positive with OD value of 1.05 - 1.86, among embryo samples, 17 were positive with OD value ranged from 1.08 - 1.50 as compared to negative control (0.54). Among different seed parts, endosperm recorded the highest OD value than seed coat and embryo (Table 1).\r\nDISCUSSION\r\nCucurbits, are widely grown in India for their medicinally valuable, nutrient-rich fruits. Due to its significance in medicine, bitter gourd is the most popular of all the cucurbits. Since 2009, Yellow mosaic disease caused by begomoviruses resulted in 100% yield loss. The seed borne and seed transmission nature of begomoviruses constitutes the important factor for active spread of diseases within the field. Manivannan et al. (2018) first reported the seed borne nature of begomovirus in bitter gourd by detecting BgYMV in different seed parts of about 79.16%. He reported that among five seeds dissected in to three parts, seed coat revealed high concentration of bitter gourd yellow mosaic virus (BgYMV) followed by endosperm and embryo and among 24 whole seeds tested 19 were positive. Kil et al. (2021) reported that the seed coats of Zucchini squash and emerged seedlings were positive in PCR analysis for tomato leaf curl New Delhi virus (ToLCNDV). In our study, among 27 seeds dissected in to three parts viz., seed coat, endosperm and embryo, endosperm recorded high concentration of begomovirus followed by seed coat and embryo and all the seven whole seeds tested were positive and revealed high concentration of begomovirus. Since the study was conducted with polyclonal antiserum of ToLCNDV, it reacted for all the begomoviruses involved. Thus, past reports and current results revealed the presence of begomovirus in embryo, which plays a key factor for seed transmission from one generation to other generation. Further the begomoviruses involved are to be confirmed by rolling circle amplification and PCR studies. \r\n','. Gomathi Devi, P. Renukadevi, G. Karthikeyan, S. Lakshmi, A. Sankari and S. Sundaravadana (2022). Seed Borne Nature of Begomoviruses Infecting Bitter gourd in Tamil Nadu. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 14(2a): 409-413.'),(5172,'134','Effect of Irrigation Scheduling on Growth, Yield and Economics of Hybrid Safflower','Parameshnaik C.*, G. Somanagouda and S.R. Salakinkop','67 Effect of Irrigation Scheduling on Growth, Yield and Economics of Hybrid Safflower Parameshnaik C.pdf','',1,'Safflower production and productivity are declining in recent past mainly due to cultivation under rainfed ecosystem on marginalized land coupled with poor crop management. Irrigation is an important factor affecting plant growth and yield especially in dryland areas. The proper time of irrigation application to crop is very important for increasing production and thereby increasing profitability. An experiment was conducted at Main Agricultural Research Station, UAS, Dharwad, Karnataka during rabi, 2019-20 with set of nine treatments. The treatments viz., T1-Irrigation at rosette stage (30-35DAS), T2-Irrigation at flower initiation stage (70-75 DAS), T3-Irrigation at seed development stage (100 -105 DAS), T4-At rosette and flower initiation stage, T5-At rosette and seed development stage, T6-At flower initiation and seed development stage, T7-At rosette, flower initiation and seed development stages, T8-Rainfed (without irrigation) and T9 -Control A-1 variety (rainfed) with three replications. The crop cvs. NARI-NH-1 and A-1 was planted on Black soil. The results showed that safflower plant height (105.45 cm), LAI(2.11) and dry matter production (117.1g plant-1) and seed yield (1759 kg ha-1), stalk yield (4530 kg ha-1) were significantly higher under three irrigations scheduled at rosette, flower initiation and seed development stages over control (1052 kg ha-1, stalk yield 3438 kg ha-1 respectively). The extent of increase in yield was 40.19 per cent under three irrigations, 33.41 percent yield increase under two irrigations and 27.44 per cent yield increases under one irrigation scheduled at critical stage of the crop. ','Safflower, Irrigation, Critical stages, NARI-NH-1 and Annigeri-1','Higher growth and yield attributes, yield and economics in the cultivation of hybrid safflower can be achieved under scheduling of irrigation at critical stages of the crop. On the basis of results obtained under present investigation and possible reasons for their unevenness having discussed, the following conclusions were drawn. If plenty of irrigation water is available, application of irrigation at rosette + flower initiation + seed development stages are required for optimization of highest seed yield (1759 kg ha-1), stalk yield (4530 kg ha-1), total net monetary returns (34878 ha-1) and B:C ratio (2.23). If water is sufficient for only two irrigations, irrigation scheduling at rosette + flower initiation stages is essential for attaining highest seed yield (1649 kg ha-1), stalk yield (4325 kg ha-1), total net monetary returns ( 31542 ha-1) and B:C ratio (2.13). If water available for one irrigation scheduling either at rosette stage or flower initiation stage or seed development stage was beneficial as they are found on par with each other with respect to growth, yield and yield parameters.','INTRODUCTION\r\nSafflower (Carthamus tinctorius L.) is one of the important rabi oilseed crops with immense potential for cultivation in dry areas of India. It belongs to family Asteraceae. Safflower is originally cultivated for dyes and cooking oil. Now seeds are used as edible oil, bird seed and as medicine for preventing heart diseases. Seed contains oil range from 28 to 32 per cent, nutritionally similar to sunflower oil having a sufficient amount of linoleic acid (78%) which is useful in reducing blood cholesterol. Typically grown on black clay soils on residual soil moisture and cultivated in different cropping regions in the world between the latitudes of 50° and 23° in both Northern and Southern hemispheres. Across the world, safflower is cultivated in 6,94,830 ha with a total production of 6,27,653 tonne. Kazakhistan is the leading producer of safflower grown for both seed and oil followed by India and Turkey (Anon., 2020).\r\nIndia occupies second rank in area (14.78 %) as well as in production (8.76%) of the safflower grown across the world. Safflower is grown in India an area of 0.82 lakh ha with production of 0.69 lakh tonnes and productivity of 673 kg ha-1. It is mainly grown in Maharashtra, Karnataka, Andhra Pradesh and Gujarat. In Karnataka, safflower is grown in 0.34 lakh ha and production is 0.27 lakh tonnes with productivity of 917 kg ha-1 (Anon., 2020).\r\nThe demand for vegetable oils for food purposes has considerable expansion of oilseed crops all over the world (Corleto et al., 1997). As the safflower is rich source of vegetable oil, it is necessary to increase yield, but day by day cultivation and productivity of safflower is decreasing due to cultivation of safflower under rainfed ecosystem on marginalized land, lack of drought resistant, disease resistant and high yielding varieties, cultivation under input starved conditions coupled with poor crop management, undue care of plant protection measures and lack of irrigation facilities and mainly cultivated as a dry land crop under scanty soil moisture.\r\nEven though safflower thrives well under scanty moisture condition, irregular distribution of rain fall and limited rains are the main risk factor for growing of this crop in dry land agriculture. So it responds well to irrigation.\r\nThe reputation of safflower as a drought tolerant and moderately salinity tolerant crop and able to extract water at 1-2 m in the soil which is not available to majority of crops (Weiss, 2000), this is due extensive and deep root system and several fine laterals, allow safflower to survive in moisture deficit periods and also limit. About 90 per cent of oilseed crop grown in India is under rain fed, Almost 70 per cent of Karnataka’s farmer depends on rain for their crops. In general rainfall is low and highly variable. Crop is traditionally cultivated in dry areas especially in black clay soil. \r\nAmong all the natural resources, water resources have unique position and water is crucial input for augmenting agricultural production towards sustainability in agriculture. Drought and water scarcity are the major factor affecting the agriculture crop production, particularly in arid and semi-arid region of the world. Irrigation is an important factor affecting the success of the crop particularly during critical stages of the plant growth. Safflower in dry areas requires less water but proper time of irrigation is most important at critical stages i.e. early vegetative (rosette), flowering and seed development stages. On other hand now-a-days hybrid varieties of safflower are available, but their performance is varying in different soil-plant-climatic condition. The productivity of the safflower need to be increased as this is a cash crop of medium and small holding farmers of Karnataka. Therefore the following field study was conducted to improve the production and productivity of safflower by scheduling of irrigation at critical growth stages of the crop, so as to make safflower cultivation successful by introducing safflower hybrid into Dharwad region of Karnataka.\r\nMATERIAL AND METHODS\r\nA field experiment was carried out during rabi 2019 – 2020 at the Main Agriculture Research Station, University of Agricultural Sciences, Dharwad (Karnataka) in plot number 107 of ‘D’ block, situated at 150 26\' N latitude, 750 07\' E longitude and at an altitude of 678 m above mean sea level. The research station comes under Northern transition zone (Zone-8) of Karnataka which lies between the Western Hilly Zone (Zone 9) and Northern Dry Zone (Zone-3). The mean annual rainfall for the past 69 years at MARS, Dharwad was 735.1 mm, which was well distributed from April to November. Maximum rainfall was received in the month of July (136.3 mm) followed by June (109.4 mm). Mean maximum temperature was 36.6°C (April). The experimental design was randomized complete block with nine treatments replicated thrice viz., T1-Irrigation at rosette stage (30-35DAS), T2-Irrigation at flower initiation stage (70-75 DAS), T3-Irrigation at seed development stage (100-105 DAS), T4-At rosette and flower initiation stage, T5-At rosette and seed development stage, T6-At flower initiation and seed development stage, T7-At rosette, flower initiation and seed development stages, T8-Rainfed (without irrigation) and T9-Control A-1 variety with rainfed. Variety, NARI-NH-1 non spiny hybrid and Annigeri (A-1) spiny in nature were chosen for study.\r\n The soil of experimental site was black clay soil (Vertisol) with neutral in reaction, (pH 7.1), normal in electrical conductivity (Ec) of 0.32 dSm-1, medium organic carbon content (0.6 percent), low N (265 kilogram per hectare), medium in phosphorus and medium in potassium (31.7 and 293 kilogram per hectare), On 8th November, 2019, brushing at a distance of 4 cm in shallow furrows was used for sowing. The experimental data obtained at different growth stages was complied and subjected to statistical analysis by adopting Fischer’s method of analysis of variance technique as outlined by Gomez and Gomez (1984). The level of significance used in ‘F’ test was p = 0.05. The critical difference (CD) value was given in the table at 0.05 per cent level of significance.\r\nRESULTS AND DISCUSSION\r\nGrowth conditions: Vegetative and reproductive growth of plants is vital in realizing the crops potential output. Plant height, number of primary and secondary branches plant-1 at harvest (Table 1) was significantly higher under irrigation scheduled at rosette + flower initiation + seed development stages (105.44 cm, 17.57 and 27.60 at harvest, respectively) and followed by application of irrigation at rosette + flower initiation stage over control (97.88 cm, 16.23 and 25.76 at harvest, respectively) over control. Improvement in plant height owing to scheduling of irrigation at rosette, flower initiation and seed development stages mainly attributed to adequate soil moisture availability in the effective crop root zone at different phonological stages coupled with higher water potential and turgidity of the plant cells and leaf expansion which ultimately lead to higher assimilation as compared to rain fed crop. Nabipour et al. (2007); Jyosthna et al. (2013) have shown similar results.\r\nSignificantly higher Leaf area index at 90 Days after sowing under irrigation applied at rosette stage, flower initiation stage and seed development stage (2.50 LAI) over Control A-1 variety with rain fed (2.03 LAI) and hybrid with rainfed (1.98 LAI). However it was on par with irrigation scheduled at rosette stage and flower initiation stage (2.29 LAI).\r\nAt harvest, application of irrigation at rosette + flower initiation + seed development stages had a significantly higher leaf area index (2.11) over control (1.77), while it was on par with irrigation applied at rosette + flower initiation stage (1.98). The improvement in leaf area index was attributed to a considerable increase in assimilatory surface area, which resulted in higher photosynthetic accumulation. This could possibly be credited to optimum soil moisture availability and nutrient uptake. Sharma et al. (1999), reported that LAI increased significantly with increase availability of adequate soil moisture at different growing phonological stages and continuously with the advancement in crop age and the highest being at 90 DAS. Patel and Patel (1996) reported similar findings.\r\nAt different growth stages, total dry matter production differs significantly with irrigation schedule at critical stage. At 90 DAS and at harvest, dry matter was greater under irrigation applied at rosette stage + flower initiation stage + seed development stage (102.80 and 117.1 g plant-1) than control A-1 variety with rainfed (81.86 and 85.8 g plant-1) and lowest value observed under hybrid with rainfed (80.68 and 84.0 g plant 1). This could be due to adequate soil moisture condition in the soil influencing plant root water absorption and leaf transpiration, which further helpful increasing in leaf area which would reflected on dry matter production.\r\nYield parameters: Yield is the complex quantitative character that involves interaction of physiological and environmental characters. Seed yield of safflower differed significantly due to application of irrigation at critical stages of the crop. The crop received irrigation at rosette + flower initiation + seed development stages found significantly higher seed yield (1759 kg ha-1) over other treatments, while it was on par with irrigation at rosette + flower initiation stage (1649 kg ha-1). Significantly lower seed yield were observed under control and hybrid with rainfed (1052 and 855 kg ha-1 respectively). The seed yield increased up to 49.19 per cent by providing irrigation at rosette, flower initiation and seed development stages as compared to rainfed condition. This might be due to scheduling irrigation at all growth stages created differential soil \r\nmoisture resulted in positively increased number of fertile flowers consequently number of capitula and number of seed per plant thereby increased seed yield. Eslam, (2011). Khadtare (2018) reported similar findings, sufficient water supplied during different phenological stages resulted in increase in number of flower heads per plant and number of seed per plant thereby increased seed yield. The similar results were observed by (Orange and Ebadi 2012).\r\nReduced seed yield under rainfed condition mainly attributed to unavailability of moisture during different phenological stages and also increased competition for moisture between the plants thereby reduced the number of capsules per plant, number of seeds per capsules, 100 seed weight, were significantly differ and positive correlation with seed yield, this is mainly attributed to accelerated aging and reduced length of growing period and net photosynthesis. These findings are in close conformity with those of Koutroubas et al. (2000); Clavel et al., (2005). Comparison among hybrid safflower under irrigated, hybrid safflower under rainfed and variety under rainfed conditions, hybrid safflower under irrigated condition recorded higher seed yield as compared to rainfed condition. This might be due to genetic potential of hybrids response towards applied irrigations. These findings are in close conformity with those of Shaneiter and Miller (1981); Zheng et al. (1993).\r\nData with respect to 100 seed weight didn’t significantly influenced by scheduling of irrigation at critical growth stages. However numerically higher 100 seed weight (g) (5.66 g) found under irrigation received at rosette stage + flower initiation stage + seed development stage as compared to other irrigation treatments. Under stressed condition number of capsule per plant, seeds per capitula and seed weight per plant were significantly reduced (Abel, 1976). Reduced yield attributes in stressed conditions might be due to accelerated aging and reduced net photosynthesis was attributed (Clavel et al., 2005).\r\nIrrigation applied at rosette + flower initiation + seed development stages had a significance in increased stalk yield (4530 kg ha-1) over other treatments, while it was on par with irrigation applied at rosette stage + flower initiation (4325 kg ha-1) and irrigation at rosette + seed development stage (4129 kg ha-1). Control treatment was recorded significantly lower of stalk yield (3438 kg ha-1) \r\nStalk yield and Harvest index of hybrid safflower as influenced by irrigation scheduled at critical stages. Irrigation received at rosette stage + flower initiation stage + seed development stage recorded significantly higher stalk yield and Harvest index (4530 kg ha-1 and 28 %) over control treatment (3438 kg ha-1 and 19.61%). In case of stalk yield under minimum irrigation schedule, receiving irrigation at rosette stage, at flower initiation stage and at seed development stages were found to be on par with each other (3882, 3873 and 3838 kg ha-1 respectively). It might be due to optimum available of water content in the soil is a solvent, sense that it breaks down the minerals and nutrients that crop need from the soil, allowing them to absorb these helpful particles into plant systems. Similar result was reported by Jyosthna et al. (2013).\r\nEconomics: Higher gross return, net return and B-C ratio were noticed in (T7) irrigation given at rosette, flower initiation and seed development stage to safflower (Rs. 63336, 34878 and 2.23 respectively) surpassed all other treatments except (T4) irrigation given at rosette + flower initiation stage (Rs. 59364, 31542 ha-1 and 2.13, respectively) and lowest is with (T8) hybrid wit rainfed condition (Rs. 30792, 7732 ha-1 and 1.34 respectively). This could be due to higher seed yield and stalk yield in comparisons to rest of the treatments Khadtar et al. (2018); Singh et al. (1995).\r\n','Parameshnaik C., G. Somanagouda and S.R. Salakinkop (2022). Effect of Irrigation Scheduling on Growth, Yield and Economics of Hybrid Safflower. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 14(2a): 414-419.'),(5173,'134','Level of Adoption of Flood Disaster Mitigation Strategies by Livestock Farmers during Flood Disaster in Cuddalore District of Tamil Nadu','P. Silambarasan1*, Thanga Thamil Vanan2, N. Kumaravel3\r\n, R. Richard Churchil4, N. Vengadabady5 and N. Vimal Rajkumar6 ','68 Level of Adoption of Flood Disaster Mitigation Strategies by Livestock Farmers during Flood Disaster in Cuddalore District of Tamil Nadu P. Silambarasan.pdf','',1,'The frequent occurrence of flood disaster causes damages to human as well animal life\r\nleading to heavy economic loss, which forced the Government organizations to formulate suitable\r\nmitigation measures. In spite of its recommendations, loss to life of animals and economy continues to\r\noccur every year due to poor implementation of mitigation measures. The present study was conducted\r\nwith the objective of assessing the level of adoption of flood mitigation strategies of livestock farmers\r\nduring flood disaster. For this study, the data on long-term and short-term mitigation strategies adopted\r\nby livestock farmers was collected from 600 livestock farmers residing in different flood prone zones of\r\nCuddalore District, Tamil Nadu, by using an interview schedule. The survey revealed that only small\r\nnumber of farmers in the study area adopted the short-term general management practices like moving\r\nanimals to raised platform (15.16%), moving animals to community shelter (13.50%), moving animals\r\n\r\ninside residential house (20.30%) and moving animals to friend’s/relatives’ safe shelter (5.00%). The short-\r\nterm feeding management practices like keeping feed and fodder in safe area such as under the roof,\r\n\r\nreceiving feed and fodder as relief material from Government bodies/NGOs/Volunteers, borrowing feed\r\nand fodder from friends/relatives and bulk purchase of feed and sharing were adopted by only less number\r\nof respondents (9.20, 17.00, 4.66 and 3.16% respectively). Majority of the farmers in the study area\r\nadopted long-term general management practices like getting coverage of animals under insurance\r\nschemes (56.30%) and rearing indigenous breeds (53.50%). Although many farmers adopted the long-term\r\ngeneral management practices like keeping dry fodder in preserved haylage (65.66%) and feeding un\r\nconventional feeds to animals (89.17%), other practices like constructing feed and fodder storage (17.80%),\r\nkeeping green fodder in preserved silage form (8.34%) and growing flood-tolerant fodder varieties\r\n(12.64%) were poorly adopted by them. In conclusion, scientific interventions like capacity building\r\nprogrammes for farmers to improve the adoption rates and construction of multipurpose evacuation\r\nshelters in elevated areas are required as mitigation strategies.','Management of livestock, Disaster, Feeding Management, Flood.','In conclusion, it was found that, the farmers need to be\r\nenlightened on the flood disaster mitigation strategies,\r\nin terms of construction of shed in elevated place,\r\nmobilization of animals to elevated and safe place and\r\nproper storage of feed and fodder. Many scientific\r\nSilambarasan et al., Biological Forum – An International Journal 14(2a): 420-424(2022) 424\r\nmitigation practices are not fully adopted by the farmers\r\nof the study area, indicating the need for capacity\r\nbuilding of farmers to face the disasters logically with\r\nscientific methods. It was also found that, the available\r\nmultipurpose evacuation shelters are located in lowlying area making unfit to use for animal mobilization\r\nand hence suitable sites need to be identified in\r\nelevated locations and steps may be initiated to\r\nconstruct community animal shelter with the assistance\r\nof District disaster management.','In conclusion, it was found that, the farmers need to be\r\nenlightened on the flood disaster mitigation strategies,\r\nin terms of construction of shed in elevated place,\r\nmobilization of animals to elevated and safe place and\r\nproper storage of feed and fodder. Many scientific\r\nSilambarasan et al., Biological Forum – An International Journal 14(2a): 420-424(2022) 424\r\nmitigation practices are not fully adopted by the farmers\r\nof the study area, indicating the need for capacity\r\nbuilding of farmers to face the disasters logically with\r\nscientific methods. It was also found that, the available\r\nmultipurpose evacuation shelters are located in lowlying area making unfit to use for animal mobilization\r\nand hence suitable sites need to be identified in\r\nelevated locations and steps may be initiated to\r\nconstruct community animal shelter with the assistance\r\nof District disaster management.',': P. Silambarasan, Thanga.Thamil Vanan, N. Kumaravel, R. Richard Churchil, N. Vengadabady and N.\r\nVimal Rajkumar (2022). Level of Adoption of Flood Disaster Mitigation Strategies by Livestock Farmers during Flood Disaster\r\nin Cuddalore District of Tamil Nadu. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 14(2a): 420-424.'),(5174,'134','Assessment of Genetic variability and Character Association for Morpho-physiological Attributes and Seed Yield in Sesame','Abu Saleh Nizamuddin Ahmed*, Subrat Das, Daizi Durba Saharia, Manoj Kumar Sarma, Manash Protim Nath and Jugal Chandra Talukdar','69 Assessment of Genetic variability and Character Association for Morpho-physiological Attributes and Seed Yield in Sesame Abu Saleh Nizamuddin Ahmed.pdf','',1,'In Assam Sesame (Sesamum indicum L.) is grown as a minor oilseed crop and it occupies only 3.8 % of the total area under oilseed crops in the state. Considering the enormous gap between the potential and realized yields, there is ample scope for enhancement of its productivity through breeding efforts. Therefore, a study was carried out to assess the genetic variability and character association for twelve morpho-physiological traits including seed yield in 32 sesame genotypes of Assam, India. Genotypic and phenotypic coefficient of variation (GCV & PCV) was recorded highest for biological yield and capsules per plant. All other traits under study except days to maturity, harvest indexand relative leaf water content exhibited moderate values of GCV and PCV. Heritability estimates were observed above 80 per cent for all the traits except seed yield, plant height and primary branches per plant. Seed yield per plant exhibited a lower magnitude of GCV, heritability and genetic advance. Comparatively a higher magnitude of GCV coupled with higher heritability and genetic advance as per cent of mean was observed for harvest index, biological yield and capsules per plant. Selection for these traits would, therefore, be meaningful. Correlation estimate revealed that the characters viz., days to maturity, plant height, number of primary branches per plant, number of capsules per plant, leaf area index, relative leaf water content, chlorophyll content and harvest index exhibited a significant positive correlation with seed yield. Path coefficient analysis revealed that the characters viz., days to maturity, plant height, number of primary branches per plant, number of capsules per plant, leaf area index, relative leaf water content, total chlorophyll content, biological yield and harvest index had a positive direct effect on seed yield, while days to 50 per cent flowering and 1000- seed weight showed a negative direct effect. Hence, direct selection for the traits showing a positive direct effect would bring about improvement in seed yield in sesame.','Genetic variability, Genetic diversity, character association, morpho-physiological traits, Sesame','From the above discussion, it is clear that considerable genetic variability existed among the genotypes under study and hence, there is ample scope for the selection of promising lines that could be used as parents in further crossing programmes. The information on the nature and magnitude of genetic parameters indicated the effectiveness of the selection of the traits under study. Further, the findings from the character association revealed the selection criteria to be adopted for improving seed yield and also to adopt recombination breeding to break the undesirable negative associations. ','INTRODUCTION\r\nSesame (Sesamum indicum L.) is the oldest oilseed crop known to man. It is regarded as the “Queen of oilseeds” because of its excellent quality of edible oil (Biswas et al., 2018). Sesame is extensively cultivated in tropical to temperate regions in the world. It is the fifth most important edible oilseed crop in India. Even though the crop originated in Africa, India is considered to be the major centre of genetic diversity (Maiti et al., 2012). In India sesame is cultivated in an area of 17.30 lakh hectares with a productivity of 431 kg/ha and production of 7.46 lakh MT (FAOSTAT, 2018). Sesame seed contains 50 % oil, 23 % protein and 15 % carbohydrate along with a high amount of calcium, phosphorous and oxalic acid (Abhijatha et al., 2017). Sesame oil is very stable due to the presence of powerful antioxidants viz., sesamin, sesamolin and sesamol which confer resistance to the oxidative deterioration(Pathak et al., 2014). Amongst all the edible oils, the antioxidant content is reported to be highest in sesame oil (Cheung et al., 2007). Despite having the largest area under cultivation and being one of the largest producers in the world, its production is still very low in India. The crop is grown marginally in the state of Assam and therefore, very less attempt for improvement has been made in sesame in this region despite having indigenous landraces throughout the region. The study of variability and character association for yield and yield contributing traits is the prerequisite for any crop improvement programme. Thus, to understand the nature and magnitude of genetic variance and character association the present study was undertaken in a set of 32 sesame accessions considering 12 morpho-physiological traits associated with seed yield in sesame.\r\n\r\nMATERIAL AND METHODS\r\nThe experiment material for the present investigation consisted of 32 sesame genotypes collected from Regional Agricultural Research Station, Shillongani, Assam. The investigation was carried out during the Kharif season 2019 at the experimental field and laboratory of the Department of Plant Breeding and Genetics and the Institutional Biotech Hub, Biswanath College of Agriculture, AAU, Biswanath Chariali. The experimental site lies in the North Bank Plain Zone of Assam at a latitude and longitude of 2642N and 9330E, respectively along with a mean altitude of 105 m above mean sea level. The soil of the experimental site was sandy loam with a pH of 5.5. The sesame genotypes were sown in a Randomized Complete Block Design (RCBD) with three replications. Each plot consisted of three rows of three metersin length with a spacing of 15 cm between plants and 30 cm between rows. The observations were recorded on days to 50 per cent flowering, days to maturity, plant height (cm), number of primary branches/plant, number of capsules/plant, 1000- seed weight (g), leaf area index, relative leaf water content (%), total chlorophyll content (mg/g fresh wt.), biological yield (g), harvest index and seed yield/plant (g). The data obtained were subjected to analysis of variance following the standard protocol given by Panse and Sukhatme (1967). Estimation of genetic parameters of variation was estimated as per Singh & Choudhury (1988). The standard methods of Burton and Devane (1953), Lush (1945) and Johnson et al., (1955) were used to estimate the variability parameters, heritability and genetic advance. Both genotypic and phenotypic coefficients of correlation between all pairs of characters were determined by using variance and covariance components as suggested by Al-Jibouri et al. (1958). Path coefficients were calculated as suggested by Wright (1921); Dewey and Lu (1959).\r\nRESULTS AND DISCUSSION\r\nThe analysis of variance revealed significant differences among the genotypes for all the characters under study which indicated that the genotypes under study had considerable variability and of worthwhile for carrying out further crop improvement attempts. The genetic parameters of variation for the 12 traits under study are presented in Table 1, Fig 1, 2. In the present study, the phenotypic coefficient of variation (PCV) was observed higher than the corresponding genotypic coefficient of variation (GCV) with a narrow difference for all the traits. This indicated that the variability amongst these traits was mostly contributed by genetic factors. Similar results were also reported by Revathi et al. (2012); Abate and Mekbib (2015); Meenakumari and Ganesamurthy (2015); Bamrotiya et al. (2016). It also indicates that there is scope for improvement of this character (Kiruthika et al., 2017). Moderate to higher magnitude of genotypic (GCV) and phenotypic coefficient of variation (PCV) were recorded for all the characters under study except days to maturity and relative leaf water content. These results corroborate with the findings of Abhijatha et al. (2017); Bharathi et al. (2014); Singh et al. (2018) for number of capsules per plant; Hika et al. (2015) for biological yield.\r\nManjeet et al. (2020) for harvest index. This information on the coefficient of variation suggested the presence of sufficient variability among the genotypes evaluated under the present study, which can be utilized for the genetic improvement of sesame through selection. \r\nThe mere presence of genetic variation is not useful unless the heritable fraction of genetic variation is not known. Johnson et al. (1955) suggested that heritability and genetic advance calculated together are more useful for predicting the outcome of selection for superior individuals rather than information on heritability and genetic advance calculated alone. Thus, for selection to be effective, the high heritability of a character should be accompanied by a high genetic advance (as per cent mean). \r\nIn this investigation, high heritability estimates (> 80%) were observed for all the traits under study except seed yield, plant height and primary branches per (Kiruthika et al., 2018). High heritability coupled with moderate to high genetic advance was observed for all the traits except days to maturity, plant height,primary branches per plant, relative leaf water content and seed yield which demonstrates the presence of additive gene effect indicating the effectiveness of selection for improvement of these traits. Seed yield per plant exhibited a lower magnitude of GCV and heritability (Bedawy et al., 2018). This may be due to the higher influence of the environment on the expression of yield and the complex nature of it being influenced by many other component traits. Overall it appeared that harvest index, biological yield and capsules per plant had a higher magnitude of GCV, heritability and genetic advance as per cent of the mean, which indicated selection will be most effective for obtaining genetic gain for these traits (Mustafa et al., 2015).\r\nYield of any crop is a complex trait which is influenced by many component traits (Yol et al., 2012). Although the parameters of variation indicate the selection efficiency of the individual traits, to bring about improvement in yield, the nature of the influence of individual traits on the seed yield needs to be understood. Character association studies reveal the nature and magnitude of the inter se association of the component traits as well as their association with seed yield.This information on the magnitude and direction of association of the component characters with seed yield and also inter association among them would prove to be very useful in formulating an effective breeding programme for improvement of seed yield (Jogdhande et al., 2017; Manisha et al., 2018).\r\nSuch studies are required for simultaneous improvement of many characters or a single complex characterlike the yield on the assumption of correlated response to selection. An attempt was, therefore, made to estimate the genotypic and phenotypic correlation coefficients between seed yield and the component characters and also amongst the components to acquire adequate information on this aspect.\r\nSeed yield per plant exhibited a highly significant association in the positive direction with days to maturity, plant height, number of primary branches per plant, number of capsules per plant, 1000-seed weight, leaf area index, relative leaf water content, total chlorophyll content and harvest index (Table 2). Similar results were also reported by Sikarwar (2002); Lal et al. (2016) in the case of days to maturity; Singh et al. (2018); Pawar et al. (2002) in the case of plant height; Teklu et al. (2017); Satankar et al. (2019) in case of number of primary branches per plant; Manjeet et al. (2019); Saxena and Bisen (2016) in case of number of capsules per plant; Satankar et al. (2019); Manjeet et al. (2019) in case of 1000 seed weight; Kumar et al. (2013); Panda (2017) in case of leaf area index; Panda (2017) in case of relative leaf water content and total chlorophyll content; Bamrotiya et al. (2016); Manjeet et al. (2019) in case of harvest index. In the present study, a highly significant negative correlation was observed for seed yield per plant with days to 50 per cent flowering. The results conform with those reported by Satankar et al. (2019); Manjeet et al. (2019).\r\nInter se correlation coefficients among the component characters revealed that those characters that were positively correlated with seed yield per plant, also showed positive association among themselves, and the character, days to 50 per cent flowering which was negatively correlated with seed yield per plant, also showed a negative association with the characters positively associated with seed yield. Interestingly, days to flowering exhibited a negative association with days to maturity. It was because the plants which started flowering earlier continued to flower much longer time being indeterminate in nature (Uzun et al., 2013). These observations indicated that plants with early flowering and later in maturity are likely to produce more plant height, more number of primary branches per plant, more number of capsules per plant, high 1000 seed weight, high leaf area index, high relative leaf water content, high total chlorophyll content and high harvest index. This indicated, that longer flowering duration is associated with higher yield and yield attributes. These findings are supported by the works of Yol et al. (2010); Vanishee et al. (2011); Hika et al. (2014). Therefore, selection based on these characters could result in further yield improvement.\r\nSimple correlation indicates the association between two traits. Yield being a complex trait being governed by many other independent traits, it would be more meaningful to partition the simple correlation into its direct and indirect components through path analysis. Path coefficient analysis devised by Wright (1921) is a convenient way to carry out the partitioning of the total correlation coefficients into their direct and indirect effects.\r\nThe phenotypic path matrix is presented in Table 3. The path analysis revealed that the characters, days to maturity, plant height, number of primary branches per plant, number of capsules per plant, leaf area index, relative leaf water content, total chlorophyll content, biological yield and harvest index had a positive direct effect on seed yield, while days to 50 per cent flowering and 1000- seed weight showed a negative direct effect. Similar results were reported by Singh et al. (2018) in case of plant height; Manjeet et al. (2019) in case of biological yield and harvest index; Kehie et al. (2020) in case of days to 50 per cent flowering and 1000- seed weight. Thus character showing a positive direct effect on seed yield may be expected to show yield promising results from direct selection (Abate et al., 2021). Negative associations shown by the traits on seed yield may be broken by recombination breeding through hybridization followed by segregation and selection.\r\n','Abu Saleh Nizamuddin Ahmed, Subrat Das, Daizi Durba Saharia, Manoj Kumar Sarma, Manash Protim Nath and Jugal Chandra Talukdar (2022). Assessment of Genetic variability and Character Association for Morpho-physiological Attributes and Seed Yield in Sesame. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 14(2a): 425-430.'),(5175,'134','The Role and Analysis of Women from Ancient to Modern Times in India','Preeti*, Kavita Dua and Poonam Yadav','70 The Role and Analysis of Women from Ancient to Modern Times in India Preeti.pdf','',1,'The world history has been bestowed upon the historical evidence and scripts. In the world of different cultures, India has a special place which has a rich and famous history of cultural glory and heritage. Although, our country caries rich cultural diversity on its shoulders, the roles and positions of women has been a roller –coaster for India. The Indian society has always been a patriarchal one which is why women participation and roles in the human civilization has always been a matter of social evil. The power of women has always been regarded as menace by the male dominant society. The journey of Indian women from ancient to modern times has been shifted steadily. From The sacred position granted to women to found themselves in shattered position to the steady decay with the time has led women towards disrespect and injustice. The Early Vedic Period was the finest hour of women empowerment. Women were dignified with a respectable status in Early Rig Vedic civilization. Women were provided the opportunity to attend higher education, to take part in high intellectual and spiritual conferences, also, Women’s freedom to participate in political activities, self-defense exercises, educational activities, decision-making has portrayed the nature of women’s status in the social canvas during the early Vedic period. In later Vedic Periods, they were given unconditional economic freedom and enjoyed higher roles and responsibility in wars and were given respectable positions, the freedom of political decisions and education were taken away from them. The dark era of women started in medieval times when the basic human rights and fundamental freedom started dented along with; which took together the restrictions from attending spiritual and political affairs and were fenced behind the bars of the house. Introduction of sati and purdah partha, polygamy and child marriage further deteriorated the position of the women in the society. Although, in modern times, Indian women enjoys a much higher respect and status then medieval times with the introduction of modernization, globalization and liberalization, the understanding of civilization and behavior and nature for the women is still obsessed with menace mentality. The sex ratio, women empowerment and equality with men is still an illusion of reality. Women are potentially victimized of various social evils and social dilemma which needs to get notified and society has to be civilized to give women a respectable position which can be commended with the inclusive growth and better social prospectus. The paper highlights the roles and responsibility connected to them. The position, freedom and respect are still a long way apart. This research paper is based on the ancient documents of Indian history which includes Vedas, Upanishads, historical evidence of Mughal era and the inclusiveness of women after independence.','Women Participation; Vedic Periods; Historical evidence; Fundamental Freedom; Human Rights; Empowerment; Equality; Inclusiveness','Women liberation has crossed many milestones and society has certainly sailed long from the past. Although women have faced multi-difficulties in the last few centuries, but they have been able to successfully establish their own identities. Today\'s women are adorned with patience, helping them reach the heights of success. Despite the old times when women were only seen as housewives who cooked, cleaned and cared for their families but in today’s world women are not only involved in household chores, but are also involved in service industries such as banks, hospitals, airlines, schools, and are beginning to show an interest in entrepreneurship. Women are more focused, having the potential to upheld their own identity in decision-making power in the most focused approach, even at the highest levels, and may be in a better position than men. Needless to say, women have achieved excellent results in each field. Personalities such as PV Sindhu and Saina Nehwal, Nirmala Sitharaman, Falguni Nayyar, Kiran Majumdar Shaw, Indira Gandhi, Sushma Swaraj and Lata Mangeshkar are idols. Women should not be limited into the roles of housewives or mothers but they should be encouraged to explore different fields of the modern world that could change the social evils which are sublimed in the patriarchy mindsets. The other side is also a harsh reality that their efforts are overlooked and are never praised for what they are doing. People accept household chores as only women’s duty and consider them free servants. This view needs to be changed, people need to understand that she may need work help, what she does is only of their caring nature.\r\n Finally, women should be encouraged to do social experiments in terms of good deed which in turn will help them to a dignified identity and if women want to work in the office to earn their income, no one should stop them. One should always have his own individual identity and must have complete freedom to do whatever they want to pursue in life as their glorified roles have always been underneath of male dominant society which should be hanged out and women must enjoy their status and move out from the social stigma.\r\n','INTRODUCTION\r\n \r\nWomen are the backbone for any progressing nation. Ancient literature like Vedas, Brahmana, Upanishad, Grihya Sutra, Dharma sastra and Epics, Smritis and Puranas have placed ¬women with utmost respect and integrity. Earlier civilization evidence emphasized the status of women were at par with the men. Women were educated, participated in war, learned various activities like dancing, fencing, painting and were actively involved in intellectual debates and were socially active and were respected. With the passage of time, the position of women started getting deteriorated. From enjoying free and esteemed positions in the Rig-Vedic society, women started being discriminated against since the Later-Vedic period indication and other rights and facilities (Nandal and Rajnish 2014).\r\nThe Indian males always find their rights to dominate the social, political and economic life of people in the country. Women were and are never encouraged in any field since the mindset indulged in society after the medieval period. In modern times also, Indian women are not empowered to explore the opportunities in different sectors and socially dif¬ferentiated. One of the main types of evidence of this metamorphose is Gender based differentiation (Shettar and Rajeswari 2015). Demographically also, women constitute similar population as me and they also seek equal importance and rights with their male counterparts. Most males are not ready to accept that women also play an important identity and they should not seek approval of men. The roles and responsibilities of women in the society is as vital as men. There is no doubt that we are in the midst of a great revolution in the history of women. The evidence is everywhere; the voice of women is increasingly heard in Parliament, courts and in the streets Mishra (2006). Women have proved themselves in every aspect of the society in earlier as well as in the modern times as they are politically active, economically productive and independent. This economical and fundamental freedom not only give women the equal opportunities but also provide them self-respect, esteem and integrity to be a pillar of the society with inclusive growth (Chattopadhyay, 1983).\r\nAncient times:\r\nIn its long-standing history of India, women always catered key roles in the history of mankind. The ancient era when Women were dignified with a respectable status in early Vedic civilization. They were also honored by their participation in all the socio-cultural activities of early Indian civilization (Bader, 2013). Women’s freedom to participate in war, gymnastics, archery, horse riding, public activities like religious ceremonies, educational activities, decision making, and debate participation has portrayed the nature of women’s status in the social canvas during ancient times (Altekar, 1938). Women were highly skilled in their fields, were having economic freedom and social life. Later Vedic Period depicted women as the root of dharma, pleasure and prosperity. Traditionally, the life and characters of Savitri, Sita, Anusuya, Damayanti, and Arundhati have been widely celebrated as pativratas in the Ramayana and Mahabharata (Kang, 2015). However, in the Later-Vedic period there were outrage in education and other rights and facilities investigated by (Nandal and Rajnish 2014). After the Vedic Period, the era of Jainism and Buddhism introduced the emphasis of education. Panini mentioned of female students’ studying Vedas. Katyana called female teachers Upadhyaya or Upadhyayi. Ashoka got his daughter Sangha Mitra, inducted into preaching Buddhism are some examples of great women scholars. Women did write Sanskrit plays and verses, excelled in music, painting and other fine arts. However, during the Buddhism, there were low economic and political status were given to nuns compared to monks (Pikachu, 2015). However the gender equity and focus on education were the key aspects. Moreover, the age of Dharma shastra and Manusmirti were the initialization of the women status with the education prohibition, child marriage and polygamy resulted in low profile of women In Vedic society, women enjoyed marriage as well as social and domestic life except the later ancient times (Manusmriti, 2009).\r\nThe medieval period begin with the entry of Muslim invaders in India and the span was around 500 years from the era of Delhi sultanate to Mughal era. During the medieval period, the position of women faced its worst phases. Women were considered a burden in the families; the Mughal left no stone unturned of barring women from all social representations and pushed them in the mud of pity fall where they were forced of child marriage and widow re-marriage was not allowed. Education was a daydream for women. They were excluded from public gathering or any intellectual deliberation. Sati paratha, polygamy and Parda(veil) became part and parcel of social life in India (Status of Women in Medieval India 2022).\r\n Restrictions on rights and privileges of women were imposed. The major problems faced by the women were discriminatory treatment (Nitisha, n.d.). Male members were believed to the assets of the family. Birth of female child was not appreciated. The girls were considered as liabilities. Women were not meant to take any decisions as all decisions will be taken by the male members of the family. Women were compelled to stay inside the house and were deprived of their rights to equity with men. The other social issues rose that time were child marriage, deprivation from education, Jauhar paratha in which Rajput women immolated themselves by mass suicide where their sainik husband is sure of going to die in the hands of the enemy and restriction on widow remarriage. However, it has been speculated that though there were lots of social barriers for the women which made women conditions to them most worsen positions, the restrictions were subjected to the Hindus only, the Buddhists, Jains and Christians women enjoyed far more freedom (Kaur, 1968). There society was more liberal and they promoted the culture of education and self-confidence. These religions emphasized equality for all and there should be no discrimination against any gender. These religions were also focused on the approach of determination of achieving success with the God’s faith and that the savior of all is God. In Buddhists theories, during the rule of Samrat Ashoka, women constantly took parts in the religious preaching. According to Hien Tsang, the famous traveler of that time, Rajyashri, the sister of Harshvardhan was a distinguished scholar of her time, but the irony is that it affected the Hindu culture in the worst manner and it can be said that Medieval period as the darkest era of the women civilization. Throughout the medieval times, the women had no identities and they were miserly behaved and were not tolerated to break any rules of the Mughal people, they were treated as things which is to be used. They were either held to be completely untruthful, sexual, innocent, or incompetent, but they can never be a human.\r\nLater Medieval and Colonial Times: With the passage of times the position of women becomes more and more miserable and by the eighteenth century, they were behaved badly and men were considered superior to women. Women of all societies and religions were forced to locked inside the four walls of their homes. Their duties and rights were interpreted and women were considered only house servant whose only identity was to do household chores and to do upbringing and caring of child. However, despite these deadly conditions where women were exempted of even basic living rules, there were some exceptional women also who became prominent in the field of politics, literature, education, administration and religion. Some famous personalities of this period were Rani Durgawati, Rani Karunawati, Kurma Devi, Rani Laxmi Bai, Jijabai, Razia Sultana, Nur Jahan, Jahanara and Zebunnisa (Altekar, 1962). In colonial India anti-imperialist women’s movement. Women of India played a significant role in Indian freedom struggle. Gandhi led “Civil Disobedience Movement” of the 1930s, and “Quit India Move¬ment” was highly remarkable which resulted in equal and active participation of women (Jaiswal, 2019). Some of the greatest female freedom fighters like Sarojini Naidu, Kasturba Gandhi, Kamala Nehru, Sucheita Kriplani, Bhikaji Cama, Amrita Kaur, Nel Sengupta, Captain Laxmi Saigal, Aruna Asaf Ali to name a few changed the conception about women and were given equal emphasis with men. During the 19th and 20th centuries, efforts were made by some famous philanthropists, social reformers, humanists, and some British administrators to eradicate the social evils merged into the mind set of Indians and to improve the condition of the women. The “Sati pratha” and child marriage was abolished, the widow remarriage act was passed and the right to education were given to women with the active participations of Savitribai Phule, Tarabai Shinde & Ramabai Ranade. There are certain men who took the cause of women in India. There have been social reformers like Raja Ram Mohan Roy, Ishwar Chandra Vidyasagar, Swami Vivekananda, Swami Dayananda Sarasvati who helped the women to gain their old charisma in the society by removing various restrictions to have their own identity. However, in all; the status of women, at the dawn of the British rule in India, reached the lowest level in the society. Women in the households were extremely in pity positions and were lived on the mercifulness of the male members of the house. The literacy among women was almost negligible and only a handful out of millions of women were educated. There were no roles positions or responsibilities were given to women except raising the kids and doing household chores.\r\nModern times: In the era of globalization when civilization has reached into the 21st century and the status of the women is still been defined by patriarchy society of India (Status of Women in India 1974). The women are still finding to have a place in the society. There are various roadblocks that women still in modern India do face on daily basis these includes Malnutrition, Poor Health, Maternal Mortality, Lack of Education, Mistreatment, Child Marriage etc. Women in India are still fighting for their rights. The obvious biological difference does not shortfall them of being not be equal contributor for self and for the country, The responsibility of raising child and doing household duties is still lying on the shoulders of the women. The patriarchal society represents the hollow and innocent face of the women in the system who is miserable and dependent. The literacy level in most parts of the country is still very low. The literacy statistics does not even match the fundamental educational level. There are around 48.04 percent or 665 million females are residing in the country and share of female in higher education is less than 23 percent. The modern women have to fight for their rights in befitting manner. Shamefully, the maternal mortality rank is 103, every third child bride is an Indian, families associate social evils like dowry with women, ranked at 4th of female infanticide. Women working in the offices also have to take care of kids and to do household work which increase stress and workload, lack of power and poor health. Mostly rural women do eat whatever is left after the family has eaten, thus did not take proper nutrition and results into malnutrition. The basic rights and amenities are reach out of the hands of the women of India and this is the harsh reality. \r\nThere are various rights that has been given for women empowerment and equity but these constitutional fundamental rights do not imply in the mindset of Indian society. Some of these rights are:\r\n— (Article 14), no discrimination by the State\r\n— (Article 15(1)), equality of opportunity \r\n— (Article 16), equal pay for equal work \r\n— (Article 39(d)), it allows special provisions to be made by the State in favor of women and children \r\n— (Article 15(3)), renounces practices derogatory to the dignity of women—\r\n— (Article 51(A) (e)), and also allows for provisions to be made by the State for securing just and humane conditions of work and for maternity relief.\r\n— (Article 42), All these are fundamental rights. Therefore, a woman can go to the court if one is subjected to any discrimination. http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Education-inIndia\r\n','Preeti, Kavita Dua and Poonam Yadav (2022). The Role and Analysis of Women from Ancient to Modern Times in India. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 14(2a): 431-434.'),(5176,'134','Physiological Growth Parameters of linseed (Linum usitatissimum L.) as Influenced by different Irrigation Scheduling and Fertility Levels','Anamika Jain Badkul*, P.B. Sharma, Amrita Badkul, Lalita Bhayal and R.P. Sahu','71 Physiological Growth Parameters of linseed _Linum usitatissimum L._ as Influenced by different Irrigation Scheduling and Fertility Levels Anamika Jain Badkul.pdf','',1,'A field experiment was conducted during Rabi season of 2020-21 and 2021-22 at Research farm, College of Agriculture, JNKVV, Jabalpur to assess response of linseed to different various irrigation schedules and fertility levels on sandy loam soil. The treatments comprised of three irrigation levels i.e. no irrigation (I0), 0.6 IW/CPE ratio (I1) and 0.8 IW/CPE ratio (I2) and four fertility levels i.e. N: P: K: S @ 30:20:10:00 (N1), 30:20:10:20 (N2), 60: 40: 20: 00 (N3) and 60: 40: 20: 20 (N4) kg ha-1 tested in split plot design with three replications. The Leaf Area Index, Leaf Area Duration, Crop Growth Rate and Relative Growth Rate were recorded highest under the irrigation schedule with 0.8 IW/CPE ratio which was at par with the value under 0.6 IW/CPE ratio over the no irrigation (I0). As regards to fertility levels, LAI was recorded significantly higher with NPKS@ 60:40:20:20 kg ha-1 as compared to other fertility levels. However, all the physiological indicators i.e. LAI, LAD, CGR, RGR was found highest in I2 and N4 treatment.','Linseed, leaf area index, leaf area duration, crop growth rate, relative growth rate','The irrigation schedule at 0.8 IW/CPE ratio proved to be superior in terms of higher physiological parameters followed by 0.6 IW/CPE ratio and no irrigation condition. Among all physiological stages sowing of linseed under the treatment NPKS @ 60:40:20:20 kg ha-1 was found advantageous in recording more LAI, LAD, CGR and RGR. However, these results are of two year mean. Hence, further experimentation is required to get the standard irrigation scheduling and recommended dose of nutrients for linseed for a particular locality.','INTRODUCTION\r\nIndia is one of the leading oilseeds growing country in the world and fourth largest vegetable oil economy next to USA, China and Brazil. Linseed (Linum usitatissimum L.) is India\'s most important oilseed crop, ranking second after to rapeseed-mustard in terms of acreage and production. It is important industrial, edible oil, and fibre crop on account of the oil derived from its seed and the stem fibre. It is high in oil (41%), protein (20%), and dietary fibre (28%), (Morris, 2005). \r\nLinseed is an important Rabi crop chiefly grown under rainfed (63%), utera (25%) and irrigated (12%) conditions (Dash et al., 2017). Among the different agronomic practices, irrigation and essential plant nutrients play a vital role in achieving higher levels of yield of linseed. Seed yield of linseed is directly affected by Nitrogen availability especially when grown under irrigated condition (Patel et al., 2017). Beside nitrogen, sulphur is very crucial for good oilseed yield (Aravind et al., 2009). Research evidences show that linseed yield is determined by the ability of plants to accumulate dry matter during the vegetative period (Aufhammer et al., 2000; Hassan and Leitch 2000). The dynamics of dry matter distribution to various plant organs, their yielding and productivity in Linseed may be characterized by using various indices of growth analysis i.e. LAI, LAD, CGR, and RGR (Aufhammer et al., 2000). Thus the study was carried out to study the physiological growth parameters of linseed as influenced by different irrigation scheduling and fertility levels.\r\nMETHODOLOGY\r\nThe experiment was conducted at instructional research farm of Jawaharlal Nehru Krishi Vishwa Vidyalaya, Jabalpur (M.P.) during Rabi season of 2020-21 and 2021-22. The climate of this region is sub-tropical with cool winter and hot summers and mean annual rainfall of Jabalpur is 1350 mm. Jabalpur belongs to “Kymore plateau and Satpura Hills” agro-climatic zone as per norms of National Agricultural Research Programme. The experiment comprised of three irrigation levels i.e. no irrigation (I0), 0.6 IW/CPE ratio (I1) and 0.8 IW/CPE ratio (I2) and four fertility levels i.e N: P: K: S @ 30:20:10:00 (N1), 30:20:10:20 (N2), 60: 40: 20: 00 (N3) and 60: 40: 20: 20 (N4) kg ha-1 tested in split plot design with three replications. The physiological parameter was recorded at different time intervals as detailed below:\r\nLeaf area index (LAI). LAI is the ratio of leaf area (A) over a certain ground area (P). It was worked out at 3 stages i.e.30, 60 and 90 DAS. It was calculated by using the formula given by Watson (1952). \r\n \r\nLeaf area duration (LAD): LAD was estimated according to the formula: \r\n \r\nWhere, LAI1 and LAI2 were the leaf area indices at time T1 and T2, respectively. Cumulative LAD was calculated by adding all the LAD values attained at different stages (30-60, 60-90 DAS).\r\nCrop growth rate (CGR): The crop growth rate was computed by using the following formula:\r\n \r\nWhere, P = Ground area, W1 = Dry weight of plant m-2 recorded at time t1, W2 = Dry weight of plant m-2 recorded at time.\r\nRelative growth rate (RGR): RGR given by Watson (1952) Where,\r\n \r\nW1 = Dry weight of plant m-2 at time T1, W2 = Dry weight of plant m-2 at time T2, ln = Natural log\r\nThe data recorded on these aspects were subjected to ‘F’ test of variances and results are interpreted on the basis of mean values.\r\nRESULTS AND DISCUSSION\r\nLeaf area index (LAI): The data on mean LAI as influenced by different treatments revealed that (Table 1 and Fig. 1) irrigation at 0.8 IW/CPE ratio gave significantly higher values as compared to 0.6 IW/CPE ratio and no irrigation condition at 60 and 90 DAS. Linseed crop is responsive to irrigation (Rana et al., 2000). Irrigation at 0.8 IW/CPE ratio could be able to supply sufficient moisture for the optimum growth of linseed which in turn resulted in increased leaf size, area and ultimately leaf area index.\r\nAmong different fertility levels LAI was recorded significantly highest in NPKS @ 60:40:20:20 kg ha-1 as compared to all the treatments. At the level of nutrients, particularly the nitrogen in combination with sulphur give birth to more number of leaves with increase in size and resulted in vigorous plant growth. NPK @ 30:20:10 kg ha-1 recorded lowest LAI at all the stage. The reason for lowered number of leaves and reduced leaf size at other fertility levels might be due to lower dose of nutrients Tanwar et al. (2011).\r\nLeaf area duration (LAD): The data depicted that (Table 1 and Fig. 2) the increase in leaf area duration was more pronounced in 30-60 and 60-90 DAS. However, LAD was observed significantly higher in 0.8 IW/CPE ratio than 0.6 IW/CPE and no irrigation. However, No irrigation was observed to be significantly lower leaf area duration at all growth stages.\r\nThe crop sown in treatment NPKS @ 60:40:20:20 kg ha-1 reported a remarkable increase particularly during both stages. It might be due to more number of leaves produced per unit area. The lowest leaf area duration was recorded under NPK @ 30:20:10 kg ha-1. \r\n\r\nCrop growth rate (CGR): The data on mean crop growth rate (g day-1 m-2) are presented in Table 2 and Fig. 3. The increased rate of per day dry matter production resulted in higher CGR in 0.8 IW/CPE ratio which was at par with 0.6 IW/CPE ratio but lower in treatment no irrigation. Irrigation was a dire necessity especially at the time of critical stages. \r\nCrop growth rate significantly affected at stages through all fertility levels. Among all numerically superior CGR recorded under NPKS @ 60:40:20:20 kg ha-1 followed by NPK @ 60:40:20 kg ha-1. CGR increased might be due to active contribution of leaves in photosynthesis at this period. Similar result was also given by Ramesh and Ram Prasad (2013). Minimum crop growth rate recorded under both NPK @30:20:10 kg ha-1 and NPKS @ 30:20:10:20 kg ha-1 which was statistically at par each other. The significant increase in dry matter might be due to availability of nutrient with sulphur to the crop at appropriate vegetative stage, resulted in increase in plant growth and it also might have improvement in photosynthetic area of plant that cumulatively contributed to higher dry matter accumulation which directly influenced crop growth rate. These results are in accordance with (Kumari et al., 2021) in linseed.\r\nRelative growth rate (RGR): The data (Table 2 and Fig. 4) clearly showed that during 30-60 and 60-90 DAS, 0.8 IW/CPE ratio reported the highest RGR (0.030 and 0.022 gg-1day-1 respectively) closely followed by 0.6 IW/CPE ratio (0.028 and 0.021 g g-1 day-1) whereas, significantly superior over No irrigation (I0). This was mainly because these irrigated condition showed vigorous growth ability and attained relatively higher biomass accumulation than rainfed condition (Awasthi et al., 2011).\r\nThe mean relative growth rate was not affected significantly by fertility levels at 30-60 DAS. An increase in relative growth rate in NPKS @60:40:20:20 kg ha-1 at 60-90 DAS may be due to sulphur application (Saha and Mandal 2000). NPK @ 60:40:20 kg ha-1 treatment recorded similar result with NPKS @ 60:40:20:20 kg ha-1 at 60-90 DAS.\r\n','Anamika Jain Badkul, P.B. Sharma, Amrita Badkul, Lalita bhayal and R.P. Sahu (2022). Physiological Growth Parameters of linseed (Linum usitatissimum L.) as Influenced by different Irrigation Scheduling and Fertility Levels. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 14(2a): 435-439.'),(5177,'134','Yield and Economics of Pigeonpea [Cajanus cajan (L.) Millsp.] as Influenced by adoption of Technological Intervention under CFLDs in Eastern UP','R.K. Singh, Rudra P. Singh, Randhir Nayak, A.K. Yadav and D.K. Singh','72 Yield and Economics of Pigeonpea [Cajanus cajan _L._ Millsp.] as Influenced by adoption of Technological Intervention under CFLDs in Eastern UP Manoj Kumar 2855.pdf','',1,'The cluster frontline demonstration on pigeonpea was conducted three consecutive years during kharif seasons of 2018-19 to 2020-21 at farmers’ field in participatory mode at different villages of district Azamgarh (U.P.). Despite of proven technologies and high yielding resistant varieties are evolved and also adopted by the pulse growers resulting lower yield and wide technological gaps. Productivity of pigeonpea is still quit lower in U.P. in comparison to several states of country. Considering the facts of low yield of pulses due to technological gap and various other constraints the Krishi Vigyan Kendra, Azamgarh-I (Acharya Narendra Deva University of Agriculture & Technology, Ayodhya) U.P. has conducted technological intervention in three consequently years with proven agricultural technologies of pigeonpea. An area of 40.0 ha covered in nine cluster villages and others of 123 farm families in the district. Among the three years of demonstration, the highest yield was recorded during 2018-19 under both the plots (19.6 & 14.5 q/ha) than remaining years. However, yield obtained during year 2019-20 to 2020-21 was almost similar and far away from the yield of 2018-19. Mean data of grain yield also depicted that demo yield (14.7 q/ha) was found 37.3% superior over control. Variation in the per cent increase in the yield was found due to variation in agro-climatic parameters under rainfed condition. Technology gap analysis reveals that initial year 2018-19 registered markedly narrower gap in comparison to remaining years. A descending trend of technology gap reflects the farmers’ cooperation in carrying out such demonstrations. Benefit: cost ratio (BCR) under demonstrations was proved most remunerative and economically feasible against traditional production system.','Cluster frontline demonstration, Pigeonpea, Technological gaps, Economics','On the basis of above technological interventions, it can be concluded that raised bed planting of pigeonpea and implementation of scientific production & protection technologies certainly enhanced pigeonpea production and also minimizing the emerging food safety risk in developing countries with their trade in national market. ','INTRODUCTION\r\nAmong the pulses pigeonpea [Cajanus cajan (L.) Millsp.] is one of the important pulse crop in India. It’s having an ability to produce potential yield under limited moisture condition by adoption of proven interventions of pulse production and makes significant crop of rainfed agro ecosystem. The total pulse production in the country in 2018-19 was 3.32 million tons from an acreage of 4.55 million hectare with average yield of 729 kg/ha. In order to make the nation self sufficient in pulses, productivity levels of pulses need to be increased substantially from 598 kg/ha to 1200 kg/ha by 2020 (Ali and Kumar 2005). India is a largest producer & consumer of pulses in the world. However, country is facing shortage of per capita requirement of pulses due to wide gap between demand and production. Uttar Pradesh is also a highly populated state and requirement of pulses is quite higher than remaining states of India. Despite of several biotic & abiotic constraints of pigeonpea production reflects positive indication that productivity of pulses in U.P. is gradually increased after passing of years to reached the level of 1084 kg/ha from 0.25 million hectare area with 0.27 million tons production (Agricultural Statistics at a Glance 2020). The low yield of pigeonpea is not only due to its cultivation on marginal land, but also because of inadequate and imbalanced fertilization, uneven plant population, severe infestation of seasonal and perennial weeds, no adoption of intercultural operations, plant protection measures and climatic variability are predominant reasons to limiting the potential yield of pigeonpea. Therefore, it is imperative to study the performance of technological interventions on pigeonpea under cluster frontline demonstration conducted at farmers’ field for obtaining higher yield under rainfed conditions of eastern Uttar Pradesh. The raised bed planting of pigeonpea and implementation of scientific production & protection technologies certainly enhanced pigeonpea production and also minimizing the emerging food safety risk in developing countries with their trade in national market. \r\nMETHODS AND MATERIALS\r\nThe cluster frontline demonstration was conducted during Kharif season of 2018-19, 2019-20 and 2020-21 at selected farmers field in different blocks of Azamgarh district. District located in the VIII eastern plain zone with MSL 77.65 m at 82°40’ - 83°52E, locally equipped with 8 Tahsil, 22 Blocks and around 3721 villages. The average annual precipitation is 1031mm while temperature ranges in between 45.1°C to 5.8°C during summer and winter. In general the soils under study were sandy loam to sandy clay loam in texture with neutral in reaction (7.2 to7.6 pH). The soil test report shows fertility status like available nitrogen, phosphorus and potassium were low to medium only and also deficient in sulphur status. Proven technological interventions were implemented at farmers’ field in participatory mode by Krishi Vigyan Kendra (Acharya Narendra Deva University of Agriculture & Technology) Azamgarh (U.P.). A list of farmers was prepared on basis of group meeting and specific skill training was imparted to the selected farmers regarding various aspects on proven technologies. A total of 123 farmers of village Lasra Kala, Sikraur, Sohouli (block Martinganj), Hafizpur, Kishundaspur, Chandeshwar (block Palhani) and Devapar, Harakhpur, Manpur belong to Bilariyaganj block and many other villages were associated under this programme during three years of demonstration. The component demonstration of frontline technology in pigeonpea conducted on improved variety Narendra Arhar -2 with raised bed planting technique keeping 60 x 30 cm plant geometry with the help of planter/manual sowing and thinning which is done manually at 60 days after sowing to maintain intra spacing between plants. A balanced dose of fertilizer was applied @ of 22 kg Nitrogen + 60 kg P2O5 per hectare during last planking in the form of diammoniam phosphate along with 20 kg sulphur through zypsum. Use of bio-fertilizer as per method prescribed like PSB, Rhizobium & biopesticide Trichoderma @ 20, 20 & 10 g/kg of seed as seed treatment were sown in an area of 0.25 to 0.40 ha of each farmer. A sum of 40 hectares area was covered in three consecutive years. Each demonstration were consisting control plot (check) for comparison and also kept where existing farmers practices was carried out (Table 1) by the beneficiaries. All the essential production and protection technologies other than interventions were applied in similar manner in the demonstrated as well as in farmer’s practices. Each & every demonstrations were monitored by scientist at different stages of crop growth period to harvest stage. \r\nThese visits are also utilized to collect feedback information for further improvement in research and extension activities. Similarly, relevant production and protection technologies are comprised in Table 2. The data on yield was collected from both plots at farmers’ field by random crop cutting method and analyzed with suitable statistical tools to compare the influence of technological interventions. The minimum support price is used for economic (BCR) calculation purpose. Finally, the recorded data were computed and analyzed for different parameters using following formula (Samui et al., 2000) as mentioned hereunder: \r\nPercent increase yield = \r\n \r\n \r\nTechnology gap = Potential yield - Demonstrated yield \r\nExtension gap = Demonstrated yield – Yield under check \r\nTechnology index =\r\n \r\nAdditional cost of demonstration = Cost of demonstration – Cost of check\r\nAdditional returns = Net return in demonstration – Net return in check\r\nEffective gain = Additional return of demonstration – Additional cost of demonstration \r\nIndia during the period from 2011-12, 2012-13, 2013-14 and 2014-15 in seven villages viz. Awunti, Akma, Sikraur, Gopalpur, Chak Khairulla, Pandri and Kotwa covering six block of district Azamgarh. Polybag (disposed plastic glass) technique used for raising of seedlings with an objective to maintain optimum crop geometry by planting of same aged seedlings. \r\nRESULTS AND DISCUSSION\r\nGrain yield analysis. It is evident from the pool data of three years (Table 3) that grain yield under cluster frontline demonstration is drastically fluctuated over the years of demonstration in comparison to traditional production technologies. None of the year is found quit superior in favour of potential yield produced during the evaluation period. Among the three years of demonstration, the highest yield was recorded during 2018-19 under both the plots (19.6 & 14.5 q/ha) than remaining years. However, yield obtained during year 2019-20 to 2020-21 was almost similar and far away from the yield of 2018-19. Mean data of three years of grain yield also depicted that demo yield (14.7 q/ha) was 37.3 per cent superior over conventional production system. The yield reduction during last two years is might be due to heavy rain during last month of September caused prolong stagnation of water and it severely affect plant population which caused yield reduction under both plots. The lowest demo yield (11.4 q/ha) was observed during 2020-21 while change in yield shows highest 45.7% than previous years because it is the function of severe yield loss under control plots which caused by various factors when compared to demo yield on per cent basis. Cumulative effects of all production parameters like improved variety, sowing technique, use of balanced dose of fertilizer, seed treatment with Rhizobium, Phosphorus Solublizing Bacteria (PSB) & Trichoderma, and adoption of proper plant protection measures effectively enhanced the yield over farmers. The above results are in conformity with the findings of Singh (2002); Singh and Yadav (2008); Mahetele and Kushwaha (2011).\r\nYield gap analysis. Determination of yield gaps and other indices carried out with an objective to educate the farming communities regarding production losses of pulses from national pulse baskets due to ignorance of technological interventions evolved for pigeonpea. Analysis of extension yield gap showed contrary result viz., wider gap 5.10q/ha to during 2018-19 which recorded maximum pigeonpea yield. The wider extension gap was obtained due to positive influence of proven technologies and more conducive years for better pulse production under both practices harnessed growth resources efficiently thereafter resulting higher yield. Drastically lower yield gap under succeeding year indicates that uneven rain pattern equally damaged the plant population resulting lesser yield gap in both plots. Wider extension gap emphasized the need to educate the farmers through various means for the adoption of proven production and protection technologies to minimize the extension gap. Pulse producer should prefer quick adoption of technological interventions developed from research organizations especially for pulses. This result is in conformity with finding of Singh et al. (2014).\r\nThe technological gap analysis observed to be more informative in respect to demonstration yield subtracting from potential yield expressed real gap in between execution of technologies at farmers’ field by the expert and researchers. The analysis on this parameter reveals that only year 2018-19 has recorded markedly narrower technology gap 8.40q/ha than remaining years of demonstration. Mean value analysis of this gap (13.3q/ha) also not much differ from last two year gaps while lower technological gap is associated with previous year. A descending trend of technology gap reflects the farmers’ cooperation in carrying out such demonstrations. The technology gap may be attributed to variability & heterogeneity in soil and its fertility status, micro climatic situations, varietal suitability and keenly adoption of latest interventions etc. Technological gap imply researchable issue for realization of potential yield, while the extension gap imply what can be achieved by the transfer of existing technologies. Dwivedi et al. (2014) also reported similar trend on chickpea under frontline demonstration. \r\n Technology index showed the feasibility of the evolved technology at the farmer’s fields. However, higher technology index reflected the insufficient extension services in respect of technology transfer. The lower value of technology index shows the efficacy of good performance of implemented technological interventions. As per the calculation of index indicates half index (%) values were registered (during 2019-20 & 2020-21) in comparison to remaining previous year. This variation indicates that results differ according to soil fertility status, weather conditions, improper intercultural operations and pest management etc. \r\nEconomics. The economic evaluation of technological interventions under cluster frontline demonstrations on various parameters of pigeon pea is depicted in Table 4. In general, it is evident from the calculation that all kind of incurred expanses and returns, both are always higher under demonstration and it also fluctuated independently over the years in of evaluations. By and large, the average gross income generated by adoption of technological interventions was Rs. 85203/ha in comparison to income under farmer practices (check) Rs 62403/ha. As for as the farmers benefits are concern that year 2018-19 is found quit profitable to receive more income (Rs. 91230/ha) due to favorable environment for pulse production. Similarly, the additional net return Rs. 27192/ha (incremental benefits) on per hectare basis was also higher on initial year of on farm demonstration. The economic analysis on net returns reflects that implementation of proven technologies are always registered higher benefits during three years of activities over dominant locally existing practices. It is clear from economic comparison in between additional cost & returns are quite encouraging & clearly reflect by increasing unit cost in pigeonpea production gave up to eight folds more benefits. The additional cost incurred under technological intervention is varied from Rs. 1750 to 2930/ha, while additional net return was positively influenced from Rs. 18550 to 27192/ha. Effective gain on per hectare basis was obtained by subtracting additional cost from additional net return and it was observed highly appreciating (Rs. 25442/ha) in year 2018-19. The benefit: cost ration (BCR) was also higher under technological interventions and traditional practices during initial year than remaining years of pigeonpea production. These findings are in conformity with results obtained by Chaudhary and Thakur (2005).\r\n \r\n','R.K. Singh, Rudra P. Singh, Randhir Nayak, A.K. Yadav and D.K. Singh (2022). Yield and Economics of Pigeonpea [Cajanus cajan (L.) Millsp.] as Influenced by adoption of Technological Intervention under CFLDs in Eastern UP. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 14(2a): 440-444.'),(5178,'134','Effect of Sowing Methods and Irrigation Scheduling on Production and Productivity of Wheat Crop','Mohd Shah Alam*, R.K. Naresh, Vivek, Satendra Kumar and H.L. Singh','73 Effect of Sowing Methods and Irrigation Scheduling on Production and Productivity of Wheat Crop Akhtar Rasool.pdf','',1,'Due to the late harvesting of rice and sugarcane, wheat is frequently grown late in the western region of Uttar Pradesh. Poor crop establishment, inconsistent use of available irrigation water is a contributing factor to reduced wheat yield. For optimal wheat yield, ideal planting geometry is critical for better and efficient exploitation of plant resources. It is also a well-known premise that water management is one of the most important variables in getting a higher crop harvest. Bed planting, being a proven technology, can increase crop yields and save irrigation water to improve water productivity. A field experiment for wheat (Triticum aestivum L.) was handled at the Crop Research Centre of Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel University of Agriculture & Technology, Meerut (U.P.) during two consecutive rabi season of the years 2020-21 to 2021-22 to explore appropriate irrigation regimes and planting patterns in this area. The purpose of the research was to assess the influence of tillage techniques on growth and yield attributes of wheat crop under semi-arid climatic conditions in the years of the research. The following factors were tested: main plots; five tillage crop establishment methods were used: (T1) Reduced tillage with rotavator line sowing, (T2) Reduced tillage with conventional tool line sowing, (T3) Furrow Irrigated Raised Bed, (T4) Conventional tillage with broadcast, and (T5) Conventional tillage with line sowing, and four irrigation scheduling methods were used: (I1) Irrigation at critical stages (CRI), (I2) CRI + IW/CPE 0.8, (I3) CRI + IW/CPE 1.0, and (I4) CRI + IW/CPE 1.2 were assigned to sub-plots and replicated thrice in split-plot design. The results showed that wheat sown on FIRB had significantly higher plant height (cm), dry matter accumulation (g m-2), spike length (cm), spikelet per spike, grains per spike, and test weight (g) than all other tillage practices. Irrigation scheduling with CRI + IW/CPE= 1.0 evidenced to have significantly higher growth and yield parameter as compared to 0.8 and 1.2 IW/CPE ratio. The FIRBS planting and irrigation at CRI stage + IW/CPE 1.0 registered significantly highest growth attributes, yield attributes, grain yield, straw yield and harvest index. ','Wheat, FIRB, Roto-tillage, Reduce tillage, Conventional tillage, Productivity, Irrigation scheduling','The study highlights the importance of irrigation scheduling supplemented with sowing method for improving yield and water savings of wheat crop. The study concluded that adoption of bed planting (FIRBS) performed best with highest yield attributes and yield of 46.9 & 49.5q ha-1 followed by reduced tillage. FIRBS (Bed) planting of wheat was found to be of the most effective and promising resource conservation practices in semi-arid climatic situations. Among the moisture regimes, applying irrigation at CRI + IW: CPE = 1.0 considerably increased growth and yield. ','INTRODUCTION\r\nWheat (Triticum aestivum L.) is a major food crop in the world, which plays an important role in ensuring food security. In the year of 2021-22, globally wheat was grown in an area of about 222.62 million hectares, producing 779 million metric tons and productivity of 3.49 Metric tons per hectare (Anonymous 2021-22). Water is the scarcest input which has substantial impact on the efficiency of applied inputs and individual factor productivity particularly under semi-arid conditions. Rabi crops are irrigated by surface irrigation methods where the irrigation efficiency to be as low as 30–40% because of higher non-beneficial evapotranspiration (Rajanna et al., 2016). The irrigated wheat systems contribute over 40% of wheat production in the developing world (Rajaram et al., 2007).In general, yield and water-use efficiency (WUE) of wheat is found to be affected by deficit irrigation (Galavi and Moghaddam 2012). Moreover, the scheduling of irrigation is a key to water Management. Irrigation missing at some critical growth stage sometime drastically reduces grain yield (Kumar et al., 2014) due to lower test weight. Efficient water management, being one of the good agronomic management practices, it not only leads to improve crop productivity but also minimize susceptibility from disease and insect pest under favorable environment for flourishing these biotic stresses (Singh et al., 2012).\r\nFurrow-irrigated raised-bed planting system (FIRBs) is a form of tillage wherein sowing is done on raised beds, this optimizes tillage operation, saves water, and reduces lodging, Monsefia et al. (2016). The bed planting wheat is one of novel techniques to save water and enhancing the productivity of other input applied. Typical irrigation savings under FIRBS ranged from 18 to 35% in wheat (Hobbs and Gupta 2003). Researchers revealed that better or equal yields under FIRBS as compared to conventional tillage. The FIRB planting systems have number of advantages like better irrigation management, better crop establishment, better weed management, less soil compaction (Karunakaran and Behera 2013) and higher N, P and K uptake (Idnani and Kumar 2013). The water-saving (50.73%) and water productivity (54.37%) of the wheat crop were higher under a raised-bed irrigation system. The raised-bed irrigation system obtained a 24.65% higher yield compared to the conventional irrigation system Soomro et al. (2017). Bakhsh et al. (2016) also reported better crop and water productivity of major crops under bed planting.\r\nTillage plays a key role in changing the hydro-physical properties. Conventional tillage involves intensive soil manipulation, wastage of energy resources, lacks sustainability and results from environmental hazards (Wang et al., 2012). To overcome such problems adaptation of reduced tillage techniques can result in timely sowing of wheat and may help in saving energy units at the farm level. Bogunovic et al. (2020) reported that the soils treated with reduced tillage had the lowest values of bulk density and penetration resistance at 0–10 and 10–20 cm. Crittenden et al. (2015) also found greater soil penetration resistance under conservation tillage than conventional tillage although conservation tillage resulted in better soil fertility. We hypothesized that irrigation and tillage operation could interactively affect wheat growth and yield, particularly under water stress condition. Hence, the objective of our study was to assess the sole and combined effect of irrigation and tillage management on crop growth, yield attributes and yield of wheat in rice-wheat cropping system. \r\nMATERIAL AND METHODS\r\nA field experiment was conducted during the Rabi (winter) seasons of 2020-21 and 2021-22, to evaluate the outcome of irrigation schedules and crop establishment techniques on physiological parameters, and yield attribute of wheat (Triticum aestivum (L.) on sandy loam soils at the Crop Research Centre (CRC) of Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel University of Agriculture & Technology, Meerut, Uttar Pradesh, India. The rainfall pattern of the experimental site was relatively variable during the two years of study. There were 20 treatment combinations consisting of 5 main plots of crop establishment methods, i.e. (T1) Reduced tillage with rotavator line sowing, (T2) Reduced tillage with conventional tool line sowing, (T3) Furrow Irrigated Raised Bed, (T4) Conventional tillage with broadcast, and (T5) Conventional tillage with line sowing, and sub plots consisting of four irrigation scheduling methods (I1) Irrigation at critical stages (CRI), (I2) CRI + IW/CPE 0.8, (I3) CRI + IW/CPE 1.0, and (I4) CRI + IW/CPE 1.2. The experiment was laid out in split plot design with 3 replications. The gross and net plot sizes were 4.00 m × 10 m and 2.50 m × 8 m respectively. Wheat (WB-02) was grown during the winter season (2nd week of November to 4th week of April in 2020-21 and 2021-22). Crop based fertilizers doses (N: P2O5: K2O) were applied in different crops @ 150:60:60 kg ha-1 for wheat, respectively. In all the treatments, half dose N and full dose of P2O5 and K2O doses were applied at sowing in wheat. Rest 50 % N was applied at first irrigation in wheat. The observations on growth (plant height, dry matter production m-2) and yield components viz., number of effective tillers per metre row length, number of grains per ear, test weight was recorded from randomly selected plants from the net plot. Two years data was pooled and statistically analyzed.\r\nA. Measurement of Crop Parameters\r\nData were recorded on spikes m−2, grains spike−1, 1000 grain weight, biological yield, grain yield and straw yield. Number of spikes in one meter long row at four different places were counted in each subplot and converted into number of spikes m−2. Number of grains spike−1 was recorded by counting the number of grains of 10 randomly selected spikes from each subplot and average number of grains spike−1 was calculated. A random sample of 1000 grains from each treatment was collected and weighed with digital balance for 1000-grain weight. For biological yield, each sub- plot was harvested and weighed into kg•ha−1. For grain yield, the biomass of each subplot was sun dried, threshed, cleaned, and grains were weighed into kg•ha−1. Soil moisture content was measured at seeding, and before and after irrigation on the top of the ridge and furrow in furrow irrigated raised bed planting system, between the 2 rows in conventional flatbed planting by gravimetric method. Water saving (WS) was calculated as:\r\nWS = (QF – QB)/QF × 100,\r\nWhere, QF and QB are quantity of water applied in flat planting and furrow irrigated raised bed planting system, respectively. The soil moisture data will be utilized to calculate the consumptive use.\r\nB. Statistical Analysis\r\nData for each parameter over two year period was subjected to analysis of variance using a spilt plot block design with split plot arrangement according to OPSTAT. Treatment means were compared using least significant difference test at P ≤ 0.05.\r\nRESULTS AND DISCUSSION\r\nThe ANOVA revealed that crop establishment and irrigation scheduling had significant treatment impact on wheat development and production parameters across two years (2020-2021, 2021-2022). The results of two years of data revealed that wheat grain production was considerably (P<0.05) greater in conservation tillage than in conventional tillage.\r\nA. Growth attributes \r\n(i) Plant height. A perusal of the data revealed that conservation tillage based crop establishment methods resulted in significant increases in plant height at all growth stages. Plant height increased rapidly as the plants grew older and peaked at harvest under T3 in both years. During the experiment period, treatment T2 and T5 were considerably comparable to T3. T1 (ROT) and T4 (CTB) had the shortest plant heights during the trial. I3 treatments were taller than rest of the treatments when it came to water regimens. During the experimental years, the pattern of plant height at different stages between irrigation water was IW/CPE 1.0 (I3) >IW/CPE 0.8 (I2) > IW/CPE 1.2 (I4)>CRI (I1).Similar result was found by Jakhar et al. (2005); Idnani and Kumar (2012). \r\n(ii) Dry matter accumulation (g m-2). The amount of dry matter accumulated by a crop is a significant aspect of the crop\'s photosynthetic efficiency, and when photosynthesis exceeds respiration, the plant\'s growth and development is sustained; conversely, the development process is slowed. As a result, it is the most accurate indicator of crop growth. A careful appraisal of the data in Table 3 revealed that dry matter accumulation m-2 continued to accumulate as the growth phase progressed until crop maturity throughout the research period in both years. Differences due to tillage treatments were found to be significant. In general, dry matter accumulation kept on increasing with age and reached maximum in both the years of study. Wheat sown on FIRB (T1) produced maximum dry matter accumulation (g) and was significantly at par with T2Reduced tillage with conventional tool line sowing. Treatment T4 recorded least dry matter produced during 2020-21 and 2021-22, respectively. Similar result was found by Atikullah et al. (2014); Idnani and Kumar (2012).\r\nWheat produced statistically higher dry matter at all the growth stages during the years of study with application of water at IW/CPE 1.0, respectively. I3 (1.0 IW/CPE) resulted in significantly higher dry matter accumulation (g m-2) than the rest of the irrigation scheduling treatments during the years of study at all the crop growth stages of crop. Irrigation scheduling at 1.0 IW/CPE (I3) treatment had resulted significantly higher dry matter accumulation (g m-2) then 1.2 IW/CPE(I4) at 90, 120 DAS and at harvest stage during the both years of experimentation. Irrigation scheduling at CRI (I1) treatment resulted lowest amount of dry matter accumulation (g m-2) during 2020-21 and 2021-22. Sarel et al. (2015) noticed higher dry matter accumulation of wheat with IW/CPE ratio of 1.0 over IW/CPE ratios of 0.25, 0.50 and 0.75. Narolia et al. (2016) observed that significantly increased dry-matter accumulation (894.2 g/m2) with irrigation scheduling at IW/CPE ratio of 1.0 than other treatments.\r\nB. Yield attribute \r\nThe wheat spike contains a variable number of around 24 to 28 spikelets, each with several florets. Grains can differ in terms of developmental stage, weight, number and fruiting efficiency when compared among different spikelets and even within individual spikelets. The middle spikelets have more and heavier grains than the basal and top spikelets. Spikelet numbers, grain weight and grain numbers per spikelet have also a significant effect on thousand grain weight (TGW) and grain number per spike. The degree and rate of filling of the grains in individual spikelets varies highly by their position at the spike.\r\n(i) Spike length. Spike length is proportional to the number of spikelets and grains spike-1, making it a crucial factor in grain production. Spike length might likewise be used as a criterion for determining grain production in cereal crops. The scrutiny of data as presented in (Table 4) revealed that T3 (FIRB) treatment significantly increased spike length over (13.6 & 14.3) treatments but at par with T2(RCT) treatment during the year of study. However, T4 treatment produced lowest spike length (7.7 & 8.5), respectively. During the 2020-21 and 2021-22 growing seasons, the (I3) IW/CPE 1.0 treatment considerably enhanced spike length over the other treatments, as shown in Table 4. During both years of the trial, treatment I2 and I4 were statistically equivalent in terms of spike length. When several irrigation management techniques were evaluated, all of them produced considerably longer spike lengths than irrigation provided solely at CRI (I4). Similar report was found by Hariram et al. (2013).\r\n(ii) Number of Spikelet’s spike-1. Table 4 gives data on how different treatments impacted the number of spikelets with spike-1. The maximum number of spikelet\'s spike-1 was considerably higher in T3 (FIRB) therapy than in all other treatments, with the exception of T2 (ROT), which was comparable in both years of the research. However, compared to the other treatments, this had a much higher number of spikelets. T3 and T5 were likewise comparable, with T4 recording the lowest number of spikelets spike-1 (12.1 and 13.3) in 2020-21 and 2021-22. Differences in irrigation management were also shown to be important in terms of the average number of spikelet\'s spike-1.During 2020-21 and 2021-22, I1 and I4 generated considerably less average spikelet spike-1 (8.57 & 9.4, 14.8 & 15.3) than the other irrigation schedule treatments. In both years of the research, I3 generated considerably more spikelet spike-1 (17.5 & 18.3) than all other treatments except I2 (16.2 & 17.9). \r\n(iii) Grains spike-1. The more number of grains per spike were because of significant increase in spike length and number of spikelet per spike. The spike of a cereal plant is the grain-bearing organ whose morphological properties are proxy measures of grain yield. Table 4 shows the data with concerning the effects of different crop establishment technique and irrigation scheduling on number grains spike-1 of wheat. Result shows that sowing of wheat on FIRB (T3) planting techniques produced significantly more grains spike-1 during the years of study over all other treatments but was statistically at par with sowing of wheat on reduced tillage with conventional tool line sowing (T2), respectively. The differences in number of grains spike-1 among the treatments T1 and T5 were non-significant but significantly superior over T4 in both the years. Treatment T4 had the lowest grain per spikes (CTB). Decrease in the number of grains per spike was directly reflected in the grain yield and yield gap. It can be seen from the data that all irrigation levels significantly increased number of grains spike-1 over irrigation applied only at CRI stage (I1). However; among all the treatments of irrigation scheduling I2 (CRI+ IW/CPE 1.0) was found superior but I2 (CRI + IW/CPE 0.8) was statistically at par during both the year of experimentation. Similar trends were found by Fahong et al. (2011); Tanwar et al. (2014).\r\n(iv) Test weight. The amount of wheat that can be contained in a standard volume is measured in test weight. Table 4 show the results of 1000-grain test weight as a function of several crop establishment methods and irrigation scheduling in wheat in the rice-wheat system. T3 (FIRB) treatment of sowing techniques considerably increased 1000 grain weight above all other treatments during the year of study, but was statistically at par with T2 treatment during the year. The finding of experiment indicated that the test weight (Table 4) was 21.3 % higher in raised beds than conventional tillage. However, T5 treatment produced significantly higher grain weight as compared to T1 and T4 respectively. The results support those of Sepat et al. (2010); Mollah et al. (2009).\r\nDuring both years of research, irrigation scheduling in wheat failed to reach statistical significance on 1000 grain test weight. However, when compared to irrigation supplied at treatment T3 CRI + 1.0 IW/CPE, optimal amounts of irrigation application to wheat considerably raised thousand grain weights. Although, test weight was increase in following order (I3) IW/CPE=1.0 followed by I2) IW/CPE=0.8> (1.2) IW/CPE=0.12> CRI. \r\nC. Yield\r\nThe most essential criterion for measuring the effect of administered treatments is grain yield. Crop yields refer to the amount of grain or other crops produced, as well as the efficiency with which land is used to generate food or agricultural goods. Grain yield is determined by a number of factors, including crop dry matter accumulation, number of tillers, number of grains spike-1, and test weight.\r\n(i) Grain yield (q ha-1). Tillage-management practices caused significant variation in grain yield. The pertaining data to grain yield as influenced by crop establishment methods and irrigation scheduling are shown in Table 5. Yield of grain was slightly higher during second year as compared to first year of experimentation. During both study years, the variance in grain yield due to diverse treatment effects was statistically significant. Amongst the crop establishment methods, T3 (FIRB) produced maximum grain yield which was remained at par to T2 (RTC). The reduction in grain yield due to more tillage i.e. traditional practices with was 5.15%, 11.13% and 20.25 %compared to T1 (ROT), T2 (RTC) and T5 (CT) practices, respectively. There was yield improvement due to lesser tillage operation in FIRB and reduced tillage, respectively over conventional tillage. Similar trends were observed during 2020-21. These findings for yield increase under bed planting are in close agreement with the works of Chauhdary et al. (2016), who reported 13% more yield under bed planting in comparison to that under conventional flat sowing. Similar result was found by Bakhsh et al. (2018); Rajanna et al. (2019); Iqbal et al. (2021).\r\nIrrigation exerted a significant positive influence on wheat yield and it increased with increasing frequency of irrigation (Table 5). The maximum grain yield was obtained with irrigation with IW: CPE 1.0 which remained statistically at par with IW: CPE 0.8. The superiority of this treatment might be owing to better availability of water and nutrient, improved vegetative growth (Rajanna et al., 2019). However, under limited irrigation, the extent of yield reduction due to restricted water availability depends on the degree, duration and timing of the imposed soil-moisture deficit (Dar et al., 2019). Irrigation only at CRI stage recorded minimum grain yield during the years of study, respectively. The results support those of Bandyopadhyay et al. (2021); Goswami et al. (2020). \r\n(ii) Straw yield (q ha-1). Table 5 clearly showed that average straw yield was higher during the second year as compared to that in first year. It is evident from the data that the major effect of different modes of tillage and interaction effect of irrigation water was significant for straw. During 2020-21, the significantly highest straw yield (63.6 & 65.8 q ha-1) was recorded due to moisture retention along with wheat sown on FIRB (T3) over remaining treatments except wheat sown on (T2). The differences in the straw yield due to conservation tillage treatments proved significant. The straw yield increased significantly with the every successive increase in moisture supply by moisture retention and bed configuration. T5 and T1 were at par with each other, however, they recorded significantly higher straw yield over conventional tillage with broadcasting. Treatment T4 (conventional tillage) recorded minimum straw yield 54.5 & 55.2 qha-1 during 2020-21 and 2021-22, respectively.\r\nIn both growing seasons, irrigation treatments had a considerable impact on straw yield. In both seasons, the highest straw yield was obtained with the IW: CPE 1.0, whereas the lowest yield was obtained with the IW: CPE 0.8, as shown in Table 5. The increase in straw production could be related to increased irrigation water availability, which boosts yield components. Similar trend were found by Gupta et al. (2016); Narolia et al. (2016).\r\n(iii) Biological yield (q ha-1). The biological yield refers to the total dry matter accumulation of a plant system. Improved harvest index represents increased physiological capacity to mobilize photosynthates and translocate them into organs having economic yield (Table 5). Wheat sown on FIRB (T3) being at par with wheat sown on reduced tillage with rotavator line sowing (T2) in biomass production during both the year. Whereas, wheat sown by conventional method (T5) and wheat sown by rotavator tillage (T1) in second year produced significant increase in biological yield over conventional tillage with broadcast technique (T4), respectively. Table 5 clearly showed that the differences among the irrigation levels were obtained to be significant. Highest biological yield of wheat was produced with CRI+IW/CPE 1.0(I3) irrigations with 5 irrigations (113.6 &116.4q ha-1) which were higher as compared to I1, I2 and I4 during first and second year, respectively.\r\n(iv) Harvest index (%). Harvest index is an important parameter indicating the efficiency in partitioning of dry matter to the economic part of crop. Higher harvest index, means higher is the economic return of the crop. The data regarding harvest index have been presented in (Table 5). Wheat sown on FIRB produced significant higher harvest index which was at par with reduced tillage with rotavator line sowing. However, the lowest harvest index found in conventional tillage with broadcast sowing. Among all the irrigation scheduling treatments, all the treatments proved higher than solo irrigation at CRI stage (I1) during the years of study but all treatments were at par with each other, respectively. However, the highest harvest index was obtained under I3 (IW/CPE=1.0) which was at par with I2 (IW/CPE=0.8) and lowest under I1 (CRI stage) treatment during the years of study. Harvest index remained highest with irrigations at IW: CPE 1.0; however, it was statistically at par with the harvest index obtained with irrigations at IW: CPE 0.8. Our results confirm the report of Galavi and Moghaddam (2012); Nayak et al. (2015).\r\nProduction technologies such as scheduling irrigation and planting techniques leading to higher productivity per unit of water use need to be developed. The present investigation was carried out to find out performance of wheat in terms of growth, yield, physiology, and water use under different crop establishment techniques and irrigation schedules because the behaviour of water distribution in the root zone soil and its use by the crops, and thereby the irrigation schedule under different crop establishment techniques, is likely to be different than the normal tillage practices and individual crops.','Mohd Shah Alam, R.K. Naresh, Vivek, Satendra Kumar and H.L. Singh (2022). Effect of Sowing Methods and Irrigation Scheduling on Production and Productivity of Wheat Crop. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 14(2a): 445-452.'),(5179,'134','Comparative Evaluation of Bait Materials and Bait Stations for Subterranean Termites','S. Sathyapritha*, K. Premalatha, P.S. Shanmugam, S. Harish, S.V. Krishnamoorthy','74 Comparative Evaluation of Bait Materials and Bait Stations for Subterranean Termites S. Sathyapritha.pdf','',1,'The baiting tactics for the management of subterranean termites had variable outcomes in the past depending on several characteristics of the bait such as moisture retention, termite attraction, durability and so on. The subterranean termites avoid tunnelling within dry bait, potentially reducing bait infestation and its consumption. Hence it is necessary to standardise the bait material which retains optimum moisture content without rendering its potential to attract the termites. The various combinations of bait materials and bait stations were evaluated based on moisture content and termite attraction, under laboratory condition. The coconut leaf bait in the plastic container retained higher moisture of 50.61%, fifteen days after placement (DAP). In field study, the attractiveness of baits were studied based on the population of termites at different intervals 3, 9, 15, 21 DAP and its feeding percent. The mean population of termites and feeding percent were higher upto 15 DAP in the order, coconut leaf bait > combination bait > paddy straw bait > cut bait. Hence coconut leaf bait in the plastic container would be further used for the field studies.','Termite, Bait material, Bait station, Moisture content, Foraging activity','From the comparative evaluation, plastic bait station with the coconut leaf bait was standardised for further field studies. The coconut leaf bait in the plastic container retained comparatively higher moisture content at 15 DAP and higher attractiveness for termites in field conditions. The high cellulose content (45.58%) and high moisture retention capacity distinguishes plastic container along with coconut leaf bait. The bait can be replaced after 15 days for long term control.','INTRODUCTION\r\nTermites are decomposers of dead woods and dead plant materials which contribute to the soil nutrient recycling. But their active search for the cellulose results in substantial harm to crops, perennial trees, buildings, wooden structures etc. They are found in a wide range of ecosystems, including tropical and subtropical climates, low and high altitude forests, agricultural farms, pastures, wooden structures & buildings, libraries and also in urbanised areas justifying its omnipresent nature (Rasib and Wright 2018). Approximately 3107 termite species are known world-wide, in which 80 species are considered to be serious pests (Kuswanto et al., 2015). The global economic impact of termites is estimated to be USD 40 billion per year, with subterranean termites accounting for over 80% of the entire economic impact (Oi, 2022) which entails to control these cryptic species in an effective and ecologically sound methods. As far as India is considered out of 337 species recorded, 92 species are wood despoilers (Shanbhag and Sundararaj 2013). Application of any management measures are restricted to a very small portion of the tunnel system that are obvious. The hidden network of the open tunnel may contain a colony with millions of termites inhabiting in it. Any ideal method of control should disseminate the active ingredient from the exposed workers to their hidden nestmates (Rust and Su 2012).\r\nFor decades, soil termiticides were the standard treatment method, but concerns about human and environmental health, less transfer efficiency between the nestmates prompted the development of alternatives. Baits are an excellent method to control, since they take advantage of their foraging habits and social interactions viz. trophallaxis and grooming for the horizontal transfer of residual pesticide deposits between nestmates. The horizontal spread of bait throughout the colony is facilitated due to the delayed action and non repellant qualities of the active component used in bait rather than the rapid acting chemical used as termiticides. In addition to the active ingredient, the efficacy of the bait depends on its moisture content, palatability, diet source and its attractiveness (Rasib and Wright, 2018). Hence the following studies were conducted to evaluate and standardise the bait sources and bait stations based on the moisture content and its duration of attractiveness for termite foraging. \r\nMATERIALS AND METHODS\r\nThe experiments were conducted at Department of Agricultural Entomology, TNAU, Coimbatore.\r\nA. Studies on laboratory evaluation of moisture content in combinations of bait materials and bait stations\r\nBait preparation. Bait sources viz., coconut leaves, paddy straw were collected, shade dried, cut into small pieces and grinded to fine powder. The food baits were prepared by mixing the respective bait constituents as in Table 1 with 0.50 grams of dextrose (binding agent). Based on the need water was added to the ingredients and hand moulded to compact discs (Fig. 1). For cut baits, the dried coconut leaves were chopped to about 5-7 cm length, and directly used as bait without adding other ingredients. \r\nBait stations. To protect the food baits, suitable bait stations were selected viz., mud pot, plastic container, plastic sachet and 5-6 holes were made in the selected bait stations to facilitate the termite movement, foraging, tunnelling activities and for air circulation (Fig. 2).\r\nBased on the bait and bait stations the following treatment combinations were formulated.\r\nTreatment details:\r\nField simulation and moisture estimation. Soil was collected from the fields before irrigation and filled in the polypropylene trays. The bait along with bait stations as per the treatment details were placed to simulate the field condition for moisture estimation. Initial weight of the bait before placement and the weight at 3rd, 5th, 7th, 9th, 11th, 15th day after placement (DAP) were measured using the analytical weighing balance. Dry weight of the baits were measured after placing the baits in the hot air oven at 105°C until the constant weight is measured for three consecutive times. The moisture content of the baits were calculated on the wet basis using the formula, \r\nMoisture % =\r\n \r\nB. Studies on field evaluation of bait materials\r\nCoconut leaf bait, paddy straw bait, combination bait and cut bait were prepared as mentioned above and placed in the termite active coconut gardens which constitutes 4 treatments viz., T1 – Coconut leaf bait, T2 – Paddy straw bait, T3 – Combination bait, T4 – Cut bait. Plastic containers were used as the bait station in all the treatments. Each treatment was replicated five times. The termite population was recorded on 3rd, 9th, 15th and 21st DAP. The initial weight of the bait before placement and the final weight of the bait at 21 DAP were measured for calculating the feeding percent.\r\nFeeding percent = \r\n \r\nStatistical Analyses. Percent data and population numbers were subjected to arcsine and square root transformation respectively prior to analysis to stabilise the error variance. Complete randomised design (CRD) was used to analyse data from the lab experiment (Moisture content estimation) and randomised block design (RBD) was used to analyse data from the field experiment. The data were subjected to one way ANOVA and means were separated using Duncans Multiple Range Test (DMRT) in the SPSS Software (Gomez and Gomez 1984).\r\nRESULTS AND DISCUSSION\r\nA. Studies on laboratory evaluation of moisture content in combinations of bait materials and bait stations\r\nAmong the different bait and bait station combinations, coconut leaf bait retained higher moisture content followed by paddy straw, combination and cut baits (Table 2). The coconut leaf bait placed in plastic sachet had 52.12% moisture comparatively higher than that of those placed in plastic container 50.61%.\r\nIt was evident that the tunnelling activity of termites was mostly reliant on soil moisture (Kushwanto et al., 2015). The results from laboratory investigations of Su and Puche (2003), demonstrated that the presence of sound wood had little effect on tunnelling activity and on the other hand positive moisture gradient boosted up the tunnelling activity of the termites. Higher the moisture content, increases the foraging activity of termites.\r\nCompactness, less aeration and more water droplets were recorded on baits placed in the plastic sachet. The water droplets in the sachet may affect the tunnelling of termites which in turn would affects its reunion with their nestmates. This concept is in line with the studies of Xie et al. (2019), that the tunnelling and feeding behaviours of the termites were restricted in the more water saturated condition. Hence the coconut leaf bait with plastic container retaining 50.61% moisture content used for field evaluation. Webb (2017), observed better foraging activity in field installed plastic bait stations. The plastic stations would be durable and maintains an undisturbed microenvironment for the termites (Quarles, 2003).\r\nB. Studies on field evaluation of bait materials\r\nAmong the food baits in the plastic bait station, the highest number of termites (Odontotermes sp.) 843.4 were recorded in coconut leaf bait (T1) on 15th DAP followed by combination bait (T3), paddy straw bait (T2) and cut bait (T4). Feeding percentage of the baits also followed the similar trend, T1 (73.99) > T3 (68.26) > T2 (69.46) > T4 (31.37). Termite population was highest at 15 DAP, after which it started to decrease gradually (Table 3). The foraging activity of termites on coconut leaf and paddy straw bait is due to the presence of cellulose as its main constituent. The paddy straw and coconut leaf let constitutes approximately 36 % and 45.58% cellulose respectively (Bakker et al., 2013; Rajendra, 2019).\r\nThe result corroborated with the findings of Lenz et al. (2009), wherein the presence of more cellulose supply was critical for termites to consume more matrix especially when alternative sources were available. Sandeep Singh (2020), revealed that the termite foraging activity is attributable to the presence of cellulose content. Among the wood constituents, cellulose is particularly attacked by the termites with the co-efficient of utilization ranging from 74% to 97% (Seifert and Becker, 1966). The present study also gains the support of Krishna and Weesmer (1969), who reviewed that the termites get their energy primarily from cellulose. The nutritional regime of termites has not changed significantly over time yet, it primarily constitutes the higher cellulosic materials.\r\n \r\n','S. Sathyapritha, K. Premalatha, P.S. Shanmugam, S. Harish, S.V. Krishnamoorthy (2022). Comparative Evaluation of Bait Materials and Bait Stations for Subterranean Termites. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 14(2a): 453-457.'),(5180,'134','Influence of Tillage Practices on Growth and Growth indices of Rice (Oryza sativa L.) varieties under Mid Hills of Himachal Pradesh','Ankit, Sandeep Manuja*, Suresh Kumar, Anil Kumar, R.P. Sharma, R.G. Upadhyay and Vijay Rana','75 Influence of Tillage Practices on Growth and Growth indices of Rice _Oryza sativa L._ varieties under Mid Hills of Himachal Pradesh Ankit.pdf','',1,'Popularizing direct seeded rice technology is the need of the hour as the rice production under transplanted conditions have treated havoc in the water economy of the country. Conservation tillage practices also play an important role in ensuring higher productivity with minimal and verse impact in the environment. There is a lack of information about of the influence of cultivation practices on the performance of different rice varieties raised under direct seeded conditions. Additionally, little research has been done on the effect of residue incorporation on the growth and growth indices of direct seeded rice. Therefore the present investigation “Influence of tillage practices on growth and growth indices of rice (Oryza sativa L.) varieties under mid hills of Himachal Pradesh was conducted during kharif seasons 2020 and 2021 at two locations, at the Experimental Farms of the Department of Agronomy, CSK Himachal Pradesh Krishi Vishvavidyalaya, Palampur and Rice and Wheat Research center, Malan (H.P.). Treatments comprised of four tillage practices viz., reduced tillage, zero tillage, conventional tillage and natural farming treatment which were tested with three rice varieties viz., Sukara Dhan 1 (HPR 1156), Him Palam Dhan 1 (HPR 2656) and Him Palam Lal Dhan 1 (HPR 2795). The study was conducted in split plot design and was replicated three times. The texture of the soil at both the locations was silty clay loam. Results revealed that conventional tillage recorded significantly taller plants and higher dry matter accumulation at both the locations (Palampur and Malan) which was followed by reduced tillage while significantly lower plant height and dry matter accumulation was recorded in natural farming. Among the varieties tested Him Palam Lal Dhan 1 (HPR 2795) produced significantly taller plants and recorded significantly higher dry matter accumulation which was followed by Sukara Dhan 1 (HPR 1156). Higher value of AGR, CGR and RGR were recorded in conventional tillage and among the varieties, Him Palam Lal Dhan 1 (HPR 2795) resulted in higher values of different growth indices at both the locations (Palampur and Malan).','Growth, Natural farming, Residue, Rice, Tillage and Varieties','From the present study it can be concluded that conventional tillage resulted in higher growth and growth indices of rice as compared to other tillage practices and natural farming. Among different rice varieties Him Palam Lal Dhan1, a new red rice variety, gave better results under direct seeded upland conditions.','INTRODUCTION\r\nRice (Oryza sativa L.) is the staple food of our country and its cultivation is the primary economic activity and main source of income for many Indians rural households involved is rice farming. In order to meet the requirement of burgeoning population the demand for rice is expected to grow by 25% between 2001 and 2025. Due to the scarcity of suitable varieties and means for applying fertilizer in rainfed environments, the acreage of upland rice is decreasing. To meet the increasing demands for rice with the limited resources available, it is vital to enhance yield per unit area while using less water. Due to competition among agricultural, industrial, and domestic uses, a water crisis is on the horizon. In Asia, rice consumes almost half of the water used in agriculture sector (Gohain 2014).Upland rice, where the crop is not flooded at all during the complete life cycle, is an effective way to save water and to reduce the methane emissions produced by flooded rice (Tung et al., 2005). In India, this crop ranks first in both area and production where it is cultivated on an area of 43.78 million hectare with the total production of 118.43 million tonnes with the average productivity of 27.05 q/ha (Anonymous, 2020a) Also in the state of Himachal Pradesh rice is one of the most important Kharif crop (second only to maize) which was cultivated on an area about 71.81 thousand hectares with the production of 114.9 thousand tonnes and productivity of about 16.0 q/ha (Anonymous, 2020b).\r\nTraditional tillage methods are easy to use and maintain a clean cropping environment. They have been used to produce a variety of crops, including rice for long time although they are considered to be labour and fuel intensive. Erosion is a major hazard in conventional tillage where it completely inverts the soil and buries crop residue/waste, exposing the land to erosive natural factors such as wind and water. In the long run, erosion has an impact on land production. Conservation agriculture methods provide a solution to all of these problems (Mathew et al., 2012). \r\nFarmers have tried to reduce the variable component of total cost of cultivation in which a large portion of energy (25–30%) is consumed for field preparation and crop establishment; therefore, conservation agriculture practices have gained popularity in recent years. In some cases the tillage operations cannot be completely avoided and under such conditions the intensity of tillage operations is lowered by only doing primary tillage and avoiding secondary tillage operations. The zero-tillage approach is more cost effective, energy efficient, and ecologically beneficial than traditional sowing methods/ transplanting (Filipovic et al., 2006). By using residual moisture in the soil, minimum and zero tillage techniques can aid in timely planting and successful germination. However there are conflicting reports about the success of this tillage option, thereby indicating the need to conduct research on this aspect.\r\nAlso the performance of rice genotypes can vary depending on a variety of factors including tillage patterns used and the effect of changes in microclimate owing to the adoption of conservation agriculture practices. Specific genotypes are also recommended for no till farming around the world. However there has been very little work done in India to identify rice varieties for conservation agriculture. Thus, it is important to test this concept in one of the most important cereal crop grown in the state. Keeping the above facts in view, the present study was carried out to study the performance of rice varieties under different tillage practices.\r\nMATERIAL AND METHODS\r\nA two years field experiment was conducted at two location’s representing the mid hill sub humid zone of Himachal Pradesh (Palampur and Malan), at the Experimental Farms of Department of Agronomy, CSK Himachal Pradesh Krishi Vishwavidyalaya, Palampur and Rice and Wheat Research Centre (RWRC), Malan during kharif seasons of 2020 and 2021.\r\nExperimental site (Palampur). The Experimental Farm of Department of Agronomy is located at 32°09\' N latitude, 76°54\'E longitude, at an altitude of 1290 m above mean sea level. The farm is located in the mid-hills sub-humid zone of Himachal Pradesh which is characterized by mild summers and cold winters. The region receives a lot of rain, ranging from 2000 to 2500 mm per year, with 80 percent of it falling between June and September, when the monsoon season is in full swing. The soil at the test site a silty clay loam texture, was acidic in reaction, and contained a medium quantity of available nitrogen, phosphorus, and potassium.\r\nDuring the rice growing season (June to October, kharif), the mean weekly maximum temperature ranged between 24.3 to 30.5°C and 22.1 to 31.1°C during 2020 and 2021, respectively while mean weekly minimum temperature fluctuated between 8.9 to 20.1°C and 9.3 to 20.8°C during 2020 and 2021, respectively. The crop experienced well distributed rainfall of 226.8 and 559.0 mm in the first and second season, respectively. The average relative humidity during the cropping seasons of first and second season was between 51.8 to 92.0 per cent and 59.7 to 94.3 per cent. (Anonymous, 2021, Crop weather outlook).\r\nExperimental site (Malan). The Experimental Farm of RWRC, Malan is located at 32o07\' N latitude, 76°23′ E longitude, 950 m above mean sea level and also falls under sub-humid mid hill zone of Himachal Pradesh. The soil at the test site had a silty clay loam texture, was acidic in reaction, and was rated a medium in available nitrogen, phosphorus, and potassium.\r\nDuring the rice growing season (June to October, Kharif), the mean weekly maximum temperature as recorded in the Meteorological Observatory of RWRC, Malan ranged between 28.8 to 33.9°C and 28.5 to 33.2°C during 2019-20 and 2020-21, respectively. While mean weekly minimum temperature fluctuated between 10.1 to 18.1°C and 12.7 to 18.1°C during 2020 and 2021, respectively. The crop experienced well distributed rainfall of 300.2 and 249.8 mm in the first and second year, respectively. The average relative humidity during the cropping seasons of first and second year was between 65.0to 79.5 per cent and 73.8 to 79.1 per cent. (Anonymous, 2021, Crop weather outlook).\r\nThe field Experiment comprised of four cultivation practices in the main plot(reduced tillage with residue, zero tillage, conventional tillage and natural farming) and three varieties rice (Sukara Dhan 1 (HPR 1156), Him Palam Dhan 1 (HPR 2656) and Him Palam Lal Dhan 1(HPR 2795)) in sub plot. With the experiment being laid out in split plot design with three replications. \r\nThe crop of rice at both the locations was planted on normal dates of sowing. The recommended dose of fertilizers for rice (60 kg N, 30 kg P and 30 kg K ha-1)was applied using urea (46 % N), single super phosphate (16 % P2O5), and muriate of potash (60 % K2O) (Package of practices, kharif, 2020 HP). The entire quantity of phosphorus and potassium was applied at the time of planting, whereas nitrogen was applied in two equal splits at the time of sowing and at three-week later. Wheat straw @ 3t/ha was applied on the reduced tillage treatment. All the practices of natural farming were also adopted to raise the rice crop.\r\nData was recorded on plant height and dry matter accumulation at periodic interval and was used to estimate different growth indices at both the location.\r\nThe following formulae were used to determine various growth indices:\r\nAbsolute growth rate was determined by using the formula given by (Radford, 1967).\r\nAGR (cm/day)= (h_2-h_1)/(t_2 - t_1 )\r\nCrop growth rate was determined by using the formula given by (Watson, 1956).\r\nCGR (g/m2/day)= (w_2-w_1)/(P × (t_2 - t_1))\r\nRelative growth rate was determined by using the formula given by (Blackman, 1919).\r\nRGR (mg/g/day)= ((loge_w2-loge_w1))/(t_2 - t_1 )× 1000\r\nWhere \r\nH1& H2: Plant height (cm) of plant at time t1 and t2, respectively\r\nW1& W2: Whole plant dry weight at time t1 and t2, respectively\r\nP is the ground area on which W1& W2 are recorded\r\nThe data obtained was statistically analyzed using the analysis of variance technique as outlined by Gomez and Gomez (1984). The critical difference (CD) was estimated for parameters with significant impacts at the 5% probability level.\r\nRESULTS AND DISCUSSION\r\nPlant height: The data on plant height of rice recorded at periodic intervals and at harvest, at both the locations has been given in Table 1. A perusal of data revealed that the plant height was significantly influenced at all the stages of observation by cultivation practices. Irrespective of treatments, consistent increase in plant height with advancement in crop age was recorded in both the years. At 30 DAS significantly taller plants were recorded in conventional tillage which was at par with reduced tillage which in turn was at par with zero tillage while significantly shorter plants were recorded in natural farming at both the locations though this treatment was also at par with the zero tillage. Similar results were recorded at 60 DAS, 90 DAS and at harvest where significantly higher plant height was recorded with conventional tillage though this treatment was at par with reduced tillage which in turn was at par with zero tillage. Only difference between plant height at 30 DAS and remaining stages was that the difference between zero tillage and natural farming was not significant at 30 DAS while it was significant at all the later stages. Higher plant height in case of conventional tillage might be due to more vigorous and healthy seedlings at initial growth period of crop. Hazarika and Sarmah (2017) have also reported that conventional tillage improves the physical condition by manipulating and pulverizing the soil which not only provides suitable environment to the germinating seed and emerging seedlings but also supplies free oxygen, ensures availability of higher moisture and essential nutrients to plants and ultimately improves the growth of plant. Significantly shorter plants were recorded in natural farming treatment. This could be attributed to the inadequate supply of nutrients to the rice crop, particularly during initial stage of plant growth which resulted in poor growth of the crop. Also, the practices of natural farming adopted during the life cycle of rice crop was not able to meet the nutritional requirement of rice resulting in poor and reduced plant height. Similar results have also been reported by Seth et al. (2019); Pandey and Tanka (2020); Ankit et al. (2022).\r\nThe rice varieties exhibited significant differences in plant height at all the stages except at 30 DAS at Palampur. At 60 DAS, 90 DAS and at harvest significantly taller plants were recorded from Him Palam Lal Dhan 1 (HPR 2795) while the other two varieties were at par with each other. The differences in plant height amongst the varieties could be attributed to the genetic make up of these varieties. Similar trend was also observed in the trial conducted at RWRC, Malan at all the stages of observation.\r\nThe interaction between the cultivation practices and varieties was found to be non-significant for plant height at both the locations.\r\nDry matter accumulation: The data pertaining to the effect of cultivation practices and varieties on dry matter accumulation of rice crop at periodic intervals at both the locations has been presented in Table 2. At Palampur significantly higher dry matter accumulation at all the stages of observation was recorded in the conventional tillage practice followed by reduced tillage and zero tillage practices which were at par with each other while significantly lower dry matter accumulation was recorded in natural farming treatment. Almost similar result was observed at Malan also though the dry matter accumulation in conventional tillage at 30 DAS was at par with the reduced tillage treatment. Higher dry matter accumulation recorded in conventional tillage at all the stages of observation was due to better physical condition of soil owing to primary tillage, better root penetration and better nutrient availability to crop which resulted in better root growth and penetration allowing roots to extract nutrients from a wider soil profile which improved the photosynthetic efficiency and hence higher dry matter accumulation. In reduced tillage also the land is exposed to primary tillage which improves the physical condition of the soil. The use of residue also results in a better moisture regime resulting in better root growth and higher dry matter accumulation. Further significantly lowest dry matter accumulation in natural farming was due to the inadequate supply of all the primary elements to the crop which could have resulted in poor root and shoot growth and ultimately resulted in poor dry matter accumulation. Similar results have also been reported by Seth et al. (2019); Ankit et al. (2022). \r\nSignificant differences were also observed between different varieties for dry matter accumulation at periodic intervals at Palampur with Him Palam Lal Dhan 1(HPR 2795) accumulating significantly higher dry matter at all the stages of observation (30, 60, 90 DAS and at harvest) while the other two varieties namely Sukara Dhan 1 (HPR 1156) and Him Palam Dhan 1 (HPR 2656) were at par with each other. Similar trend was observed for this parameter at Malan with the exception that the difference between Him Palam Lal Dhan 1 (HPR 2795) and Sukara Dhan 1 (HPR 1156) for dry matter accumulation at 30 DAS was not significant. The higher dry matter accumulation recorded in Him Palam Lal Dhan 1 may be due to rapid initial growth (as indicated by plant height), more tillering, higher leaf area which resulted in higher photosynthetic efficiency leading to higher dry matter accumulation. Similar trend was also followed at RWRC, Malan at all the stages of observation. \r\nThe interaction between the cultivation practices and varieties was found to be non-significant for dry matter accumulation at both the locations.\r\nAbsolute Growth Rate: Absolute Growth Rate (AGR) showed significant differences with respect to cultivation practices and varieties (Table 3 & 4) At Palampur significantly higher Absolute Growth Rate between 30-60 DAS was recorded in conventional tillage which was at par with reduced tillage and latter in turn was at par with zero tillage while significantly lower value of AGR between 30-60 DAS was recorded in natural farming treatment. Between at 60-90 DAS significantly higher value of AGR at Palampur was recorded in conventional tillage which was at par with both reduced tillage and zero tillage while significantly lower value of AGR between 60-90 DAS was recorded in natural farming treatment. \r\nThe better physical condition of soil achieved as a result of conventional tillage resulted in more robust and taller plants which was reflected in the higher value of this parameter at all the stages. Also, higher value of AGR recorded between 30-60 DAS as compared to 60-90 DAS may be due to the reason that height of rice usually increases till the initiation of flowering after which there is only slight increase in height. Similar trend was also observed for Absolute Growth rate at periodic stages at Malan also with conventional and reduced tillage recording higher AGR between 30-60 DAS and 60-90 DAS while significantly lower values were recorded in natural farming treatment. \r\nSignificant differences were observed among varieties for Absolute Growth Rate between 30-60 DAS and 60-90 DAS at both the locations. Significantly higher value of AGR between 30-60 DAS was recorded in Him Palam Lal Dhan 1 while the other two varieties Sukara Dhan 1 and Him Palam Dhan 1 were at par with each other at both Palampur and Malan. The Absolute Growth Rate between 60-90 DAS also followed the similar trend with HPLD 1 recording significantly higher value at both Palampur and Malan. Similar results, have also been reported by Ankit et al. (2022). \r\nCrop growth Rate: Crop Growth Rate (CGR) is the rate of daily increment in dry matter accumulation by the particular crop. A perusal of data revealed that CGR at both the stages was significantly influenced by cultivation practices as well as by rice varieties at both the locations. At 30-60 DAS conventional tillage had considerably higher value of CGR at both the locations followed by reduced tillage and zero tillage in that order, both the latter treatments being at par with each other while the natural farming recorded significantly lowest CGR between at 30-60 DAS. Similar trend w.r.t. the CGR between 60-90 DAS was observed at both Palampur and Malan with conventional tillage logging higher CGR while significantly lowest value recorded in natural farming Higher CGR value may be due to higher production of dry matter owing to greater LAI and higher light interception. \r\nAmong the varieties tested, at both 30-60 DAS and 60-90 DAS significantly higher value of CGR was recorded in Him Palam Lal Dhan 1 (HPR 2795) at Palampur which was followed by variety Sukara Dhan 1 (HPR 1156) while lowest value of CGR was recorded in case of Him Palam Dhan 1 (HPR 2656) differences between the latter two varieties could not breach the level of significance. Similar results were also obtained for this parameter at Malan.\r\nRelative Growth Rate: Relative Growth Rate is the rate of accumulation of new dry mass per unit of existing dry mass and plays an important role in determining the plant competitiveness for various resources. The data on RGR, as influenced by tillage practices and varieties, recorded between different stages (30-60 DAS and 60-90 DAS) at Palampur and Malan (Table 3 and 4) revealed that this parameter was not significantly impacted by rice varieties while the effect of tillage was significant only between 60-90 DAS. Significantly higher RGR between 60-90 DAS was recorded from conventional tillage though this treatment was at par with reduced tillage as well as zero tillage while significantly lower value of RGR at this stage was recorded in natural farming treatment. \r\n','Ankit, Sandeep Manuja, Suresh Kumar, Anil Kumar, R.P. Sharma, R.G. Upadhyay and Vijay Rana (2022). Influence of Tillage Practices on Growth and Growth indices of Rice (Oryza sativa L.) varieties under Mid Hills of Himachal Pradesh. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 14(2a): 458-464.'),(5181,'134','Abundance and Diversity of Natural Enemies Associated with Tuta absoluta (Meyrick) in Udaipur District of Southern Rajasthan','Akhilesh Kokkula*, Manoj Kumar Mahla, S. Ramesh Babu, Sheenam Bhateja, Krishnaveni Kondoor and Sachin','76 Abundance and Diversity of Natural Enemies Associated with Tuta absoluta _Meyrick_ in Udaipur District of Southern Rajasthan Akhilesh Kokkula.pdf','',1,'The South American tomato leafminer Tuta absoluta (Meyrick) (Lepidoptera: Gelechiidae) is a major global threat to the tomato crop. It was firstly reported in India in 2014 and since then, the crop has sustained extensive damage. Several initiatives were attempted including the use of neem although pesticides were mostly employed to manage the pest. In this regard, a survey of natural enemies associated with T. absoluta spontaneously was carried out in five blocks of Rajasthan\'s Udaipur district (Sarada, Mavli, Girwa, Gogunda, and Vallabhnagar). To estimate diversity indices, the randomly picked plants were observed for natural enemies. The natural enemies of Tuta absoluta recorded during survey falls into two orders: Hemiptera and Hymenoptera, comprising 5 families, which includes Nesidiocoris tenuis, Bracon sp., Trichogramma sp., Neochrysocharis formosa and Goniozus sp. During the investigation, it was recorded that among the several natural enemies, Nesidiocoris tenuis had the highest relative density. The Mavli block had the most diversity, with a Simpson index of 1.10 and a Shannon index of 0.23.','Tuta absoluta, natural enemies, diversity indices','From the current study, it can be inferred that the Mavli block had the highest diversity index value, which denotes the highest species richness and quantity of natural enemies. It was observed that the diversity varied depending on the region. However, Nesidiocoris tenuis populations dominated all of the Udaipur district\'s localities in southern Rajasthan.','INTRODUCTION\r\nThe tomato (Solanum lycopersicum Mills.) is a commercially important horticultural crop in the Solanaceae family. It is a vital vegetable that is used in the production of medicine in addition to its fruits, leaves, and vines (Bhowmik et al., 2012). Tomatoes are widely grown by smallholder farmers as a high-value horticultural product for home consumption, processing, and export. However, tomato yields are poor averaging 5 tonnes per hectare, much below the global average of 34 tonnes per hectare (Anonymous, 2020). This poor yield can be attributable to both biotic and abiotic stresses. Among the biotic stresses, an alien pest, Tuta absoluta (Meyrick) (Lepidoptera: Gelechiidae) has recently caused yield losses of up to 100% in the absence of biological and other management techniques (Desneux et al., 2010). The fast distribution and proliferation of this moth may have been aided by the lack of co-evolved natural adversaries in newly invaded areas. Chemicals have been employed to manage the pest, but they are costly and dangerous to the environment (Luna et al., 2012). In this situation, biological control may be a cost-effective and ecologically friendly method of controlling T. absoluta (Chailleux et al., 2012).\r\nIn this sense, it is necessary to perform a survey of natural enemies associated with Tuta absoluta. Species richness and abundance are calculated using several diversity indices. Diversity may be increased by having a vast number of species. Similarly, improving the uniformity of individual distribution within species will enhance variety. The biodiversity studies will help researchers to understand the number and species richness of pest-associated natural enemies. It provides a quantitative assessment of the relationship between insect pests and their natural opponents. This information aids in the understanding of insect ecology and hence serves as a guide for building area-specific management techniques that reduce pest damage effectively.\r\nMATERIALS AND METHODS\r\nThe survey was carried out during Rabi 2021-2022, with the purpose of determining the natural enemies of tomato pinworm. Natural enemy populations were counted at 25 different locations across five Udaipur district blocks (Sarada, Mavli, Girwa, Gogunda, and Vallabhnagar) with five villages selected from each block. Natural enemy observations were collected at 15-day intervals from 10 randomly selected tomato plants using the visual-count technique. Different stages such as eggs, larvae and pupae were collected and marked separately in the field. Based on the availability of the stages at the field visit, a known number of infected Tuta absoluta early and late instar larvae were collected. The samples together with the tainted leaves and fruits were brought to the laboratory unharmed and grown to test for parasitoids or diseases. Predators were collected using an aspirator or a direct approach and the collected predators and parasitiods were stored in alcohol and labeled. The specimens were identified at the National Bureau of Agricultural Insect Resources (NBAIR) in Bengaluru.\r\nThe following mathematical analyses have been done: \r\n(a) Mean density: \r\nMean density = Σ 𝑋𝑖/𝑁\r\nWhere, Xi = No. of natural enemies in ith sample\r\nN = Total No. of plants sampled\r\n(b) Relative density: \r\nRelative density (RD %) \r\n= \r\n(c) Diversity indices:\r\nSuitable alpha-diversity indices used as per the recorded data: \r\n Shannon Diversity Index: - Σpi ln(pi)\r\n Simpson’s Diversity Index as D: 1/ Σ(pi)2\r\nWhere, pi = the decimal fraction of individuals belonging to ith species.\r\nRESULTS AND DISCUSSION\r\nThe mean density and relative density of natural enemies associated with pest at different locations recorded in Udaipur district of Rajasthan during Rabi 2021-2022 were represented in the Table 2.\r\nAs there is scarcity of literature available on abundance and diversity of natural enemies associated with Tuta absoluta much discussion could not be possible, related literature have been discussed below.\r\nThe natural enemies of Tuta absoluta were represented as five families in two orders of Class Insecta (Table 1) (Fig. 1). These natural enemies were also recorded by Ballal et al. (2016) during surveys in southern India. At all locations Nesidiocoris tenuis was observed to be the highest relative density among the all natural enemies (Table 2). Our findings are in agreement with earlier reports by Arno et al. (2009); Zappala et al. (2013) indicating N. tenuis was a predator of Tuta absoluta. Other reports have shown that N. tenuis aids in the management of pests such as lepidoptera, thrips, white flies and a variety of other pests in greenhouses by Hughes et al., (2009); Gavkare and Sharma (2016). Our findings also agreed with Al-Jboory et al. (2012) who recorded that N. tenuis, Orius sp. and Brocon sp. as natural enemies on Tuta absoluta in tomato ecosystem, of which N. tenuis and Bracon sp., also recorded in our investigation; while there was no record of Orius sp. in our study. The current findings are consistent with those of Luna et al. (2011); Biondi et al. (2013) who claimed to have discovered Neochrysocharis formosa parasitizing T. absoluta larvae in tomato fields in Northern Buenos Aires region, Argentina and Italy, respectively. Desneux et al., 2010 stated that Bracon concolorans (Marshall) was discovered as a larval parasitoid of T. absoluta in Jordan, Cyprus, Egypt, France, Italy, and Spain, which validates our findings.\r\nAccording to the data enumerated in (Table 3) for the diversity of natural enemies associated with Tuta absoluta, was observed that Mavli block had the highest Simpson indices value (1.10) followed by at Vallabhnagar (1.04), Girwa (1.03), Gogunda (1.02); while, at Sarada block this value was lowest (1.01). Correspondingly the highest Shannon index value was noted at Mavli (0.23) followed by Vallabhnagar (0.11), Girwa (0.08), Gogunda (0.06); while it was lowest at Sarada (0.05) (Table 3). The current study found that in the Udaipur district, Mavli block had the most species diversity and Sarada block had the lowest species diversity (Fig. 2).\r\n','Akhilesh Kokkula, Manoj Kumar Mahla, S. Ramesh Babu, Sheenam Bhateja, Krishnaveni Kondoor and Sachin (2022). Abundance and Diversity of Natural Enemies Associated with Tuta absoluta (Meyrick) in Udaipur District of Southern Rajasthan. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 14(2a): 465-468.'),(5182,'33','Historical Perspective on Emergence of Eco-Critical Theory: A Review','Saurabh Kumar','44 Historical Perspective on Emergence of Eco-Critical Theory A Review Saurabh Kumar.pdf','',1,'Many novels in English literature revolve around a plot in where Nature plays an important and dominant role. As far as ecocritical belief is concerned, the existence of humans is confined within the periphery of natural world. This is the reason why man remains a life-long wanderer. This fact raises the ecocritical notion that answers the question: “Why we are always acknowledged with the acquainted physical and cultural atmosphere?” In such novels, the novelists have approached their themes in a variety of ways and various methods. In current scenario, we look at nature for our personal identity and to discover our ancestries. All this is in jeopardy, as the end of 20th century has clearly showcased that we all have to do something if we want to help the earth survive. The last decade of 20th century has made the entire humanity aware of the fact that the 21st century will be in the midst of the grave danger pertaining to the survival of the earth. Thus, in the course of this research paper, the following notions of ecocriticism are studied: “How is nature symbolized in the novels?”, “What role does physical background play in these works?”, “Does these novels yielding to the values consistent with ecological understanding?”, “How the metaphors are used to amalgamate with Nature?” and “How the idea of wild has have changed the course of narrative?”. ','Ecocriticism, Nature Writing, Difference between Ecocriticism and other literary theories, Relationship between Nature and Culture, Important Notion in Ecocriticism','-','-','-'),(5183,'134','Nutrient Uptake, Yield Attributes and Yield of Maize (Zea mays L.) as Influenced by Efficacy of Different Post emergence Herbicides Applied under varied Qualities of Spray Fluids','K. Bhavitha*, K. Suresh, T. Ram Prakash and M. Madhavi','77 Nutrient Uptake, Yield Attributes and Yield of Maize _Zea mays L._ as Influenced by Efficacy of Different Post emergence Herbicides Applied under varied Qualities of Spray Fluids K. Bhavitha.pdf','',1,'Herbicide application is the most economical method of weed control due to shortage of labour and costly intercultivation. For optimum performance of the herbicides applied, quality of water plays a major role as it is a primary herbicide carrier solvent. In Telangana state, as far as irrigation suitability of groundwater is concerned it is found that most of the areas and 63.3% of water samples fall under C3S1 type (high salinity low sodium hazard) and 7.1% of samples fall under C3S2 type (high salinity and medium sodium). Based on the above problem, twenty treatments namely tank mix application of atrazine with 4 hydroxy-phenyl pyruvate dioxygenase (4-HPPD) and acetolactase acid synthase inhibiting herbicides (tembotrione and halosulfuron methyl respectively), 2,4-D-Dimethyl amine with and without adjuvant were sprayed as post-emergence (PoE) at 21 DAS with C3S1 (EC–0.75 to 2.25 dS m-1; SAR–0 to 10) class, C3S2(EC–0.75 to 2.25 dS m-1; SAR–10 to 18) class waters and distilled water as spray fluids, hand weeding at 20 and 40 DAS and unweeded check were evaluated in afield investigation conducted during 2020-21 of rabi season under factorial randomized block design to determine the nutrient uptake, yield attributes of maize and soil chemical properties. Tank mix application of halosulfuron methyl @ 67.5 g ha-1 + atrazine @ 0.5 kg ha-1 with 2% ammonium sulphate as PoE with C3S1 class water as spray fluid recorded higher yield attributes, yield and nutrient uptake in maize in comparison to other saline water treatment combinations next to tank mix application of halosulfuron methyl @ 67.5 g ha-1 + atrazine @ 0.5 kg ha-1 with 2% ammonium sulphate as PoE with distilled water as spray fluid.','Nutrient uptake, Post-emergence herbicides, Saline waters, Soil chemical properties, Yield attributes','It was concluded from the field investigation conducted during rabi 2020-21 that the herbicide efficacy can be improved when saline waters (C3S1 class water) were used as spray fluids with tank mix application of halosulfuron methyl @ 67.5 g ha-1 + atrazine @ 0.5kg ha-1along with 2% ammonium sulphate as PoE and efficient weed control in maize can be obtained without any phytotoxic effect in areas where there is shortage of labour and high cost of labour for manual weeding. ','INTRODUCTION\r\nMaize stands first in production among cereals in the world and is named as “Miracle crop” and “queen of cereals” due to its versatile nature and highest genetic potential (Arockia Infant et al., 2020) and has wider adaptability to diverse agro-climatic conditions. In India, maize ranks 5th in area and 3rd in production. In Telangana state, the total cultivated area under maize is 5.6 lakh ha with total production and productivity of 20.3 lakh tons and 36.58 q ha-1 respectively during the year 2018-19 (Agricultural Statistics at a Glance, 2019). About 15 million farmers in India are engaged in cultivation of maize. Weeds pose severe problem in maize in contrast to several agronomic constraints and results in low productivity. Weeding after critical period of crop weed competition can reduce yield upto 65-83% (Anwesh Rai et al., 2018). Herbicide application is most economical weed control method in comparison to manual weeding due to labour shortage; hence, herbicide efficacy plays an important role in yield expression. There are very few herbicide options available for weed control in maize in India. At present, herbicides used for weed control in maize involves pre-emergence application of atrazine, alachlor, simazine, pendimethalin and post-emergence (PoE) application of 2, 4-D, atrazine. Post-emergence herbicides offer a long season control till critical period of crop-weed competition. To achieve efficient weed control, spray carrier quality plays a major role. Water is the primary herbicide carrier solvent and is a critical component for herbicide applications. Quality of groundwater is determined in terms of pH, electrical conductivity (EC), SAR respectively. Presence of dissolved cations in water like Ca+2, Mg+2, Fe+2, Al+3, Mn+2, Na+, K+ and Cesium can influence herbicide efficacy by the process of inactivation, breakdown or precipitation. Very hard water (greater than 1000ppm) can also affect surfactants and oils, and will change their properties of wetting, emulsification and dispersion. An adjuvant is any compound that is added to a herbicide formulation or tank mix to facilitate the mixing, application, or effectiveness of that herbicide. Ammonium sulphate (AMS) as adjuvant reduces the antagonist effect of hard water cations and enhance herbicides efficacy by reacting with the dissolved cations to form insoluble sulfates that will not react with the herbicide.\r\nMATERIAL AND METHODS\r\nAfield trial was laid out at College Farm, College of Agriculture, Professor Jayashankar Telangana State Agricultural University, Rajendranagar, Hyderabad during rabi season of 2020-21 in randomized block design with two factors (herbicides + adjuvant and quality of spray fluids) and two external controls replicated thrice. Six levels of herbicides + adjuvant combinations (factor 1) included were H1: tank mix application of tembotrione 34.4% SC 120 g ha-1 + atrazine 50% WP 0.5 kg ha-1 without adjuvant as PoE, H2: tank mix application of tembotrione 34.4% SC 120 g ha-1 + atrazine 50% WP 0.5 kg ha-1+ ammonium sulphate @ 2% as adjuvant as PoE, H3: 2,4-D-Dimethyl amine 58% SL 0.5 kg ha-1 without adjuvant as PoE, H4: 2,4-D-Dimethyl amine 58% SL 0.5 kg ha-1 + ammonium sulphate @ 2% as adjuvant as PoE, H5: tank mix application of halosulfuron methyl 75% WDG 67.5 g ha-1 + atrazine 50% WP 0.5 kg ha-1 without adjuvant as PoE and H6: tank mix application of halosulfuron methyl 75% WDG 67.5 g ha-1 + atrazine 50% WP 0.5 kg ha-1 + ammonium sulphate @ 2% as adjuvant as PoE and three levels of quality of spray fluids (factor 2) namely i.e., W1: C3S1 class (EC–0.75 to 2.25 dS m-1; SAR–0 to 10), W2: C3S2 class (EC–0.75 to 2.25 dS m-1; SAR–10 to 18) and W3: distilled water and two external controls, C1: unweeded control and C2: weed free plot (hand weeding at 20 and 40 DAS). The values of NPK contents for grain and stover were recorded treatment wise and then N, P and K uptakes were determined. It was evaluated by multiplying the nutrient content (%) with corresponding dry matter produced and expressed in kg ha-1. The data recorded during the experiment was analysed statistically.\r\nNutrient uptake = \r\n=(Dry matter produced (kg ha^(-1)×nutrient content (%))/100\r\nRESULTS AND DISCUSSION\r\nYield and yield attributes. Significantly higher number of cobs plant-1 (1.68) and cob length (18.94 cm) were recorded with tank mix application of halosulfuron methyl @ 67.5 g ha-1 + atrazine @ 0.5 kg ha-1 + AMS @ 2% as PoE among herbicides + adjuvant combinations. The above results were in agreement with findings of Tesfay et al. (2014); Quddus et al. (2012). Likewise, Shinde et al. (2001) also recorded significantly improved yield and related yield attributes in plots where weeds were below economic threshold level. Among different quality of spray carriers, significantly maximum no. of cobs plant-1 (1.43) was recorded with use of distilled water as spray carrier. Data recorded on no. of rows cob-1 indicated that herbicides + adjuvant treatments and quality of spray carriers used did not significantly influence the parameters. Data on test weight (g) indicated that HW at 20 and 40 DAS (control 2) resulted in maximum test weight (26.10 g) and similar results were reported by Sapna Bhagat et al. (2019); Puscal et al. (2018); Skrzypczak et al. (2011); Abbas et al. (2018). Effect of herbicides + adjuvant treatments and quality of spray carriers did not influence test weight (g) significantly (Table 1).\r\nNumber of grains cob-1 and grain weight cob-1 (Table 2) were significantly influenced by different herbicides + adjuvant treatments and quality of spray fluids and their interactions. Significantly highest no. of grains cob-1 (481.00) and grain weight cob-1 (125.05 g) were recorded with tank mix application of halosulfuron methyl @ 67.5 g ha-1 + atrazine @ 0.5 kg ha-1 + AMS @ 2% at 21 DAS with distilled water as spray fluid and the above results might be attributed to higher weed control efficiency because of application of adjuvant with herbicide combination and use of distilled water as spray fluid increased the transfer of herbicide to the target site within the plant system and increased toxicity to the weeds which resulted in lower weed dry weight and better translocation of assimilates to the cobs and ultimately showed increase in no. of grains cob-1 and grain weight cob-1. Improved penetration and enhanced phytotoxicity of herbicides improved weed control when herbicides used in combination with urea (as adjuvant) solution (Singh and Singh 2003; Bunting et al., 2004). \r\nAmong herbicides + adjuvant and saline waters combinations, tank mix application of halosulfuron methyl @ 67.5 g ha-1 + atrazine @ 0.5 kg ha-1 + AMS @ 2% at 21 DAS with C3S1 saline water as spray fluid recorded significantly higher no. of grains cob-1 and grain weight cob-1 (458.33 and 116.32 g respectively) compared to other saline water combinations.\r\nSignificant influence on maize yield was observed with different herbicides + adjuvant and quality of spray fluid treatments and are presented in (Table 3). Harvest index (HI), is the proportion of percentage of grain yield to total biomass, and this can be used as a measure of reproductive efficiency. Therefore, HI is considered as novel trait to target for increasing yield potentials. Among herbicides + adjuvant combinations (Table 4), tank mix application of halosulfuron methyl @ 67.5 g ha-1 + atrazine @ 0.5 kg ha-1 + AMS @ 2% at 21 DAS and tank mix application of halosulfuron methyl @ 67.5 g ha-1 + atrazine @ 0.5 kg ha-1 alone at 21 DAS resulted in highest HI (38.32% and 37.37% respectively). Among the quality of spray carriers, use of distilled water as spray carrier resulted in significantly maximum HI (35.80%). The interactions between different herbicides + adjuvants and quality of spray carriers were non-significant with reference to harvest index.\r\nNutrient uptake. The data on nutrient uptake by grain and stover (N, P and K) were recorded after harvest of maize by multiplying the nutrient content with grain and stover yield respectively (Table 3).\r\n(a) Nutrient uptake by grain. Among different herbicides + adjuvant and quality of spray carriers combinations (Table 5), significantly higher N, P and K uptake by grain (75.11 kg ha-1, 12.34 kg ha-1 and 54.06 kg ha-1 respectively) was recorded with halosulfuron methyl @ 67.5 g ha-1 + atrazine @ 0.5 kg ha-1 + AMS @ 2% at 21 DAS with distilled water as spray fluid and on par with halosulfuron methyl @ 67.5 g ha-1 + atrazine @ 0.5 kg ha-1 at 21 DAS with distilled water as spray fluid and was statistically significant over other treatment combinations which could be due to the effective weed control provided a competition free environment and improved physical, biological condition of the soil, which led to increased growth of crop and thereby increase in nutrient uptake by increasing the grain yield of maize. The results are inconformity with those reported by Birendra Kumar et al. (2017).\r\n(b) Nutrient uptake by stover. The results showed (Table 6) that nutrient uptake by stover was significantly influenced by different herbicides + adjuvants and quality of spray carriers. Among different herbicides+ adjuvant and quality of spray carriers combinations, halosulfuron methyl @ 67.5 g ha-1 + atrazine @ 0.5 kg ha-1 + AMS @ 2% at 21 DAS with distilled water as spray fluid recorded significantly higher N, P and K uptake (74.97 kg ha-1, 9.42 kg ha-1and 84.04 kg ha-1) and on par with halosulfuron methyl @ 67.5 g ha-1 + atrazine @ 0.5 kg ha-1 at 21 DAS with distilled water as spray fluid and was statistically significant over other treatment combinations. \r\nIn addition, halosulfuron methyl @ 67.5 g ha-1 + atrazine @ 0.5 kg ha-1 + AMS @ 2% at 21 DAS with C3S1water as spray fluid resulted in higher nutrient uptake in grain and stover compared to other herbicides combinations with saline waters. When unweeded check (control 1) versus other treatments was considered, nutrient uptake (N, P and K) in maize was significantly lowest. The lowest nutrient uptake in unweeded control was due to poor dry matter yield and grain yield of crop and reduced nutrient uptake because of heavy weed competition (Shravan Kumar et al., 2019).\r\nSoil chemical properties. Soil analysis was done after the harvest of the crop and the data are presented in Table 7. The data indicated that the soil chemical parameters after harvest of crop did not differ much and thus failed to show significant difference among different herbicides + adjuvant treatments and quality of spray fluids used and between their treatment combinations. However, the values of pH, EC, OC, available N, P and K ranged from 7.75 to 8.13, 0.47 to 0.57 dS m-1, 0.46 to 0.56%, 184.68 to 217.80 kg ha-1, 7.28 to 9.10 kg ha-1 and 202.08 to 236.65 kg ha-1 respectively.\r\n','K. Bhavitha, K. Suresh, T. Ram Prakash and M. Madhavi (2022). Nutrient Uptake, Yield Attributes and Yield of Maize (Zea mays L.) as Influenced by Efficacy of Different Post emergence Herbicides Applied under varied Qualities of Spray Fluids. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 14(2a): 469-474.'),(5184,'134','Effects of Humic Acid, Vermiwash, and Biofertilizer on Seedling Growth of Soursop (Annona muricata L)','Fetrat A. Noory, S.V. Patil*, Venkat Rao, Manjunath Ramanna, Gundappa G. Kadalli and Swetha B.S.','78 Effects of Humic Acid, Vermiwash, and Biofertilizer on Seedling Growth of Soursop _Annona muricata L_ S.V. Patil.pdf','',1,'The study on effect of humic acid, vermiwash and biofertilizer on growth and establishment of soursop was conducted under open condition during 2020-21 at College of Horticulture, Dept. of Fruit Science, Bengaluru. Seedlings were raised in polythene bags of 12 × 24cm, then single seed was sown into every polybags containing media mixtures of Soil, FYM (1:1) treated with humic acid, vermiwash and biofertilizers as per treatment and these bags were kept under open condition. A total of twelve treatments were tested in three replications. The results showed that the inoculation of combination of humic acid (3%), vermiwash (1%) and three bio-fertilizers; Azospirillum, spp. Pseudomonas fluorescence and AM fungi (2g/ seedling) had produced significantly highest seedling height (39.00 cm), seedling girth (5.98 mm), number of leaves (25.20 no.), leaf area (49.00 cm2), fresh and dry Weight of shoot (30.66 and 8.10 g respectively) in T12 treatment the findings are similar with that of Peters et al., 2001.The maximum fresh and dry weight of root (19.40 and 2.80 g), number of primary roots (33.00), length of primary root (25.00 cm) and root volume (5.20 cm3) was also recorded in the T12 treatment at the end of 120 days in the nursery.','Soursop, humic acid and vermiwash, biofertilizer, Annona muricata','Humic acid is a naturally occurring mixture of organic macromolecular molecules that can be found in all soils. It\'s an organically charged bio-stimulant that boosts crop output by influencing plant growth and development owing to their distinct physiological characteristics, it has been thoroughly studied (Quaggiotti et al., 2004). Vermiwash is a rich source of vitamins, hormones, enzymes, macronutrients and micronutrients when applied to plants help in efficient growth Nath et al, (2009). Bio-fertilizers are microbial preparations containing living cells of different microorganisms which have the ability to mobilize plant nutrients in soil from unusable to usable form through biological process and they are environmental friendly and play significant role in crop production. Azospirillum is a non-symbiotic micro aerophilic bacterium commonly found in association with roots of horticultural crops. Pseudomonas fluorescens is a ubiquitous bacterium that help in the maintenance of soil health and are metabolically and functionally most diverse. The treatment (T12) was found best with respect to the parameters like Seedling height, Seedling girth, Number of leaves, Leaf area, Fresh weight of shoot, Dry weight of shoot, Fresh weight of root, Dry weight of root, Number of primary roots, Length of primary root and Root volume over other treatments.','INTRODUCTION\r\nSoursop/Lakshman Phal (Annona muricata) belongs to the family Annonaceae, having diploid chromosome number 2n=14. It is wide spread in the tropics and frost free subtropics of the world (Samson, 1980). The soursop plant is cultivated mainly in home gardens. The eachtree yields up to 10 tons/ha with average each fruit weighs 0.5 to 2 kg. The fruit is compound in and covered with reticulated, leathery appearing but tender, inedible bitter skin from which protrude few or many stubby, or more elongated and curved soft, pliable “spines”. The skin is dark-green in the immature fruit, becoming slightly yellowish-green before the mature fruit is soft to the touch. In aroma, the pulp is somewhat pineapple-like, but its musky, subacid to acid flavor is unique (Schultes and Raffauf 1990). It is indigenous to most of the warmest tropical areas in South and North America including Amazon, it has become naturalized in many countries, and now has a wide distribution throughout tropical and subtropical parts of the world. The fruit makes an excellent drink or ice cream after straining. All parts of the tree are used in natural medicine in the tropics including the bark, leaves, root and fruit-seeds. The crushed seeds are used as an anthelmintic against internal and external parasitic worms. The bark leaves and roots are considered sedative, antispasmodic, hypoglycemic, hypotensive, smooth muscle relaxant and nervine and a tea is made for various disorders for those purposes (Holdsworth, 1990). Many bioactive compounds and phytochemicals have been found in plants and its various uses in natural medicine have been scientifically validated by many researchers (Heinrich, 1992; Sundarrao, 1993). Generally, the fruit and fruit juice is taken for worms and parasites, to cool fevers, to increase mother’s milk after childbirth (lactagogue), and as an astringent for diarrhea and dysentery. Soursop contains antibacterial, antiviral and antifungal properties. So this is a good source of medicine the juice of ripe fruit is said to be a diuretic, while a decoction of powdered immature fruits is used for dysentery remedy.\r\nIn India, the average productivity of soursop is roughly 25-40 kg per plant. Soursop is only grown in small scale in the southern Indian states of Tamil Nadu, Karnataka, Andhra Pradesh, and Kerala. Soursop has a high economic value, it is widely cultivated and consumed as edible food. White fibrous juicy segments surround an extended receptacle in the fruit pulp. It could be used as a raw material for purees, juices, jams, jellies, powdered fruit bars, and flakes. The pulp can be used to make nectar (Peters et al., 2001). Soursop contains antibacterial, antiviral and antifungal properties. So this is a good source of medicine. The juice of ripe fruit is said to be a diuretic, while a decoction of powdered immature fruits is used for dysentery remedy.\r\nMATERIAL AND METHODS\r\nThe present study on effect of humic acid, vermiwash and biofertilizer on growth and establishment of soursop was conducted under open condition during 2020-21 at Fruit Science Dept. College of Horticulture, Bengaluru. Seedlings were raised in polythene bags of 12 × 24 cm, then single seed was sown into every polybags containing media mixtures of Soil, FYM (1:1) ratio treated with humic acid, vermiwash and biofertilizers per treatment and these bags were kept under open condition. The design RBD was used for the experiment, there were twelve treatments with three replications.\r\nRESULT AND DISCUSSION\r\nThe results showed that the inoculation of combination of humic acid, vermiwash and three bio-fertilizers; Azospirillum, spp. Pseudomonas fluorescence and AM fungi had produced significantly highest seedling height (39.00 cm), seedling girth (5.98 mm), number of leaves (25.20 no.), leaf area (49.00 cm2), fresh and dry Weight of shoot (30.66 and 8.10 g respectively) in the treatment T12: [Humic Acid (3%) + Vermiwash (1%) + Azospirillum spp ( 2g / seedling) + Pseudomonas fluorescence (2g / seedling) + AM Fungi (2g / seedling)]. And the maximum fresh and dry weight of root (19.40 and 2.80 g), number of primary roots (33.00), length of primary root (25.00 cm) and root volume (5.20 cm3) was also recorded in the treatment T12: [Humic Acid (3%) + Vermiwash (1%) + Azospirillum spp (2g / seedling) + Pseudomonas fluorescence (2g / seedling) + AM Fungi (2g / seedling)] at the end of 120 days in nursery.\r\n','Fetrat A. Noory, S.V. Patil, Venkat Rao, Manjunath Ramanna, Gundappa G. Kadalli and Swetha B.S. (2022). Effects of Humic Acid, Vermiwash, and Biofertilizer on Seedling Growth of Soursop (Annona muricata L). Biological Forum – An International Journal, 14(2a): 475-477.'),(5185,'134','Effect of Hormones on Oil Yield and Nutrient Uptake of Mustard under Southern Telangana Agro-Climatic conditions','Ganta Harshitha*, Ch. Bharat Bhushan Rao, T. Ram Prakash and S.A. Hussain','79 Effect of Hormones on Oil Yield and Nutrient Uptake of Mustard under Southern Telangana Agro-Climatic conditions Ganta Harshitha.pdf','',1,'Plant hormones are substances present in smaller proportions that regulate plant growth and development, as well as responses to changing environmental conditions. By modifying the production, distribution of these hormones, plants are able to regulate and coordinate both growth and stress tolerance to promote survival or escape from environmental stress. The role of the growth hormones in reducing the shattering losses in mustard is prominent. In this contextan experiment was carried out at student farm, College of Agriculture, Rajendranagar, Hyderabad, Telangana, in sandy loam soils during rabi 2020 to study the effect of hormones on growth and yield of mustard under Southern Telangana Agro-climatic conditions. The experiment was laid out in randomized block design with ten treatments. The treatments comprised were : T1-Control (RDF60:40:40N, P2O5,K2O kg ha-1), T2(RDF + foliar spray of GA3 @ 45 ppm at flowering), T3 (RDF + foliar spray of GA3 @ 45 ppm at pod development), T4 (RDF + foliar spray of GA3 @ 45 ppm at flowering and pod development), T5 (RDF + foliar spray of humic acid @ 1.5% at flowering), T6 (RDF + foliar spray of humic acid @ 1.5% at pod development), T7 (RDF + foliar spray of humic acid @ 1.5% at flowering and pod development), T8 (RDF + foliar spray of GA3 @ 45 ppm fb humic acid @ 1.5% with 2 days interval at flowering), T9 (RDF + foliar spray of GA3 @ 45 ppm fb humic acid @ 1.5% with 2 days interval at pod development) and T10 (RDF + foliar spray of GA3 @ 45 ppm fb humic acid @ 1.5% with 2 days interval at flowering and pod development). Results indicated that, application of RDF + foliar spray of GA3 @ 45 ppm fb humic acid @ 1.5% with 2 days interval at flowering and pod development (T10) and application only at flowering (T8) gave the similar and higher oil yield and nutrient uptake, while the oil content and nutrient contents were not effected significantly by the application of hormones.','Flowering, Foliar application, GA3, Humic acid, Mustard, Pod development','— It was found that quality parameters like oil content and nutrient content (N, P, K) at 30, 60 DAS and harvest were not influenced significantly the spray of GA3 and humic acid. But nutrient uptake (N, P, K) at 60 DAS and at harvest (grain and stover) and oil yield were significantly influenced by the spray of GA3 and humic acid. \r\n— The highest oil yield and nutrient uptake were observed with the application of T10 (RDF + foliar spray of GA3 @ 45 ppm fb humic acid @ 1.5% with 2 days interval at flowering and pod development) and this was on par with the application of T8 (RDF + foliar spray of GA3 @ 45 ppm fb humic acid @ 1.5% with 2 days interval at flowering).\r\n','INTRODUCTION\r\nRapeseed-mustard (Brassica spp.) is one of the most important oilseed crops of the world where India ranks third in area and production in the world (DRMR, 2015). Among the seven edible oilseeds cultivated in India, rapeseed-mustard contributes 28.6% in the total oilseeds production and ranks second after groundnut sharing 27.8% in the India’s oilseed economy. Its seed contains 37 to 49% edible oil. Demand of edible oil has increased with increasing population and improvement in the living standard of the people, resulting thereby in short supply of edible oils which is being met with imports of edible oil worth 44,000 crores per annum. Thus, there is need to boost the oilseed production through area expansion and productivity enhancement. In India, rapeseed-mustard occupy 6.23 million ha area with production and productivity of 9.34 million tonnes and 1499 kg ha-1 respectively (India stat 2019-20). It is a major rabi crop. Cultivation of mustard is taken up between October-November and February-March.\r\nGibberellic acid is a phytohormone that is needed in small quantities at low concentration so as to accelerate the plant growth and development. Because, favourable conditions may be induced by applying growth regulator exogenously in proper concentration at a proper time in a specific crop. It is a diterpenoid carboxylic acid that belongs to the family gibberellins and acts as a natural plant growth hormone, which can manipulate a variety of growth and development phenomena in various crops. GA3 enhances growth activities of plant, stimulates stem elongation (Deotale et al., 1998). It is applied to crops, orchards, and ornamental plants, where it plays a role in seed germination, response to abiotic stress, stem elongation, flowering and other physiological effects that occur in its interaction with other phytohormones (Hedden and Sponsel 2015). \r\nHumic acid is an organically charged bio-stimulant that significantly affects plant growth and development and increases crop yield. It has been extensively investigated that humic acid improves physical, chemical and biological properties of soils (Nardi et al., 2004). Humic acid-based fertilizers increase crop yield, stimulate plant hormones and improve soil fertility ecologically and environmentally. Many studies highlighted the positive benefits of humic acid application on higher plants. Humic acids also reduce toxic effects of salts on monocots (Masciandaro et al., 2002) and dicots (Ferrara et al., 2001), including rapeseed. Enhanced nutrient uptake by plants as a result of humic acid application is also well established. Likewise, the increased yield is also observed in many crops due to its application, including potato, brassica, tomato, onions and other leafy vegetables.\r\nMATERIALS AND METHODS\r\nThe present experiment was conducted at student farm, College of Agriculture, Rajendranagar, Hyderabad, Telangana, India during rabi 2020. The soil of experimental plot was sandy loamy and slightly alkaline (pH 7.6), with available nitrogen (128 kgha-1), phosphorus (61.6 kgha-1) and potassium (414 kgha-1) content. Geographically it is situated between 17º1918.39N latitude and 78º2538.67E longitude and its mean height above sea level is 534 m. The total rainfall received during the crop growth period was 363.4 mm in 11 rainy days. To study the effect of hormones on growth and yield of mustard (Brassica nigra L.) under Southern Telangana Agro-climatic conditions, randomized block design was used with ten treatments replicated thrice. The experimental field was laid out in 30unit plots, each plot measuring 21.6 m2 (5.4m × 4.0m). There were thirteen rows of mustard crop in each plot and forty plants in each row. One row of crop from both sides of length and also both sides of breadth were left as guard rows. The net plot consisted of eleven rows with thirty-eight plants per row (4.6m x 3.8m). Seeds of mustard variety Pusa-Agrani were sown @ 5 kgha-1 (250000 plants ha-1), on 9th October 2020 with the spacing of 40 cm between the rows and 10 cm between the plants. A fertilizer dose of 60 kg N, 40 kg P2O5 and 40 kg K2O per ha through urea, single super phosphate and muriate of potash was applied at the time of sowing (basal application) to all the plots.\r\nFoliar application of gibberellic acid and humic acid was done as per the treatments. For the foliar application of gibberellic acid a solution of 45 ppm was prepared by using 45 mg of gibberellic acid along with premix (solvent) dissolved in distilled water and made the volume to 1000ml using volumetric flask. It was utilized for foliar application in the plots which are selected for gibberellic acid spray. For the foliar application of humic acid 15 ml of the solvent was mixed in water and made up to 1000 ml to get 1.5% solution of humic acid. This was sprayed in the plots selected for HA application. Timely recommended plant protection measures for mustard crop were followed to save the crop from pests and diseases. The mustard crop was harvested manually. Different growth and yield components were recorded periodically. Data obtained from various parameters under study were analyzed by the method of analysis of variance (ANOVA) as described by Gomez and Gomez (1984). The level of significance used in the “F” test was given at 5 per cent.\r\nThe seed samples from the net plot were oven dried at 105°C till constant weight was obtained. The sample was fed to NMR (Nuclear Magnetic resonance spectroscopy). The instrument was standardised with equal quantity of seed sample and the readings obtained were noted as oil per cent.\r\nFor estimating nitrogen, phosphorus and potassium content in plants, well dried samples were collected for dry matter accumulation. Samples from each of the plot were collected oven dried, powdered and used for analysis of nitrogen by micro-kjeldahl method (Piper, 1966), Phosphorus by vanado-molybdo phosphoric acid method (Jackson, 1973) using spectrophotometer and potassium by using flame photometer (Jackson, 1967).\r\nThe total uptake of nitrogen, phosphorus and potassium at harvest by mustard was calculated by multiplying the biomass yield with the corresponding percentage of nitrogen, phosphorus and potassium and expressed as kg ha-1 (Jackson, 1973). \r\n Nutrient uptake (kg ha-1) =\r\n \r\nRESULTS AND DISCUSSION\r\nOil content (%) and oil yield (kg ha-1). The results of oil content and oil yield in mustard as influenced by GA3 and humic acid spray are presented in Table 1.\r\nStudy of the data revealed that oil content (%) was not influenced significantly by the spray of hormones. Highest oil content (36.37) was observed with the application of RDF + foliar spray of GA3 @ 45 ppm fb humic acid @ 1.5% with 2 days interval at flowering and pod development (T10). This was found to be on par with all other treatments.\r\nScrutiny of the data revealed that oil yield (kg ha-1) was significantly influenced by the spray of hormones. Highest oil yield (593 kg ha-1) was observed with the application of RDF + foliar spray of GA3 @ 45 ppm fb humic acid @ 1.5% with 2 days interval at flowering and pod development (T10) which was on par with the application of RDF + foliar spray of GA3 @ 45 ppm fb humic acid @ 1.5% with 2 days interval at flowering (T8) (568 kg ha-1). Lowest oil yield (390 kg ha-1) was observed with the application of RDF (60:40:40 N, P2O5,K2O ha-1) (T1) which was on par with the application of RDF + foliar spray of GA3 @ 45 ppm at pod development (T3) (409 kg ha-1). There was increase of 52.1% in the oil yield observed with RDF + foliar spray of GA3 @ 45 ppm fb humic acid @ 1.5% with 2 days interval at flowering and pod development (T10) as compared to control (T1).\r\nThe highest oil yield was recorded with the application of GA3 and humic acid at flowering and pod development. Improvement in seed oil composition can be credited to the activation of the synthesis of various enzymes which are involved in the fatty acids metabolism (Talaat and Gamal 2007; Dar et al., 2015), thus increasing seed oil contents. Application of GA3 prompted a similar pattern of response, with the oil yield plant per plant being enhanced noticeably. Humic acid application resulted in an increase in oil percentage and oil yield per plant in comparison with control plants. These results are in agreement with the report of Rajpar et al. (2011) which showed that application of humic acid had noteworthy effect on oil yield. \r\nNutrient content (%). The data revealed that nutrient content (%) of the plant was not influenced significantly by the spray of hormones. Highest nutrient content (N, P and K) was observed with the application of RDF + foliar spray of GA3 @ 45 ppm fb humic acid @ 1.5% with 2 days interval at flowering and pod development (T10). This was found to be on par with all other treatments.\r\nNitrogen uptake (kg ha-1). The results of Nitrogen uptake (kg ha-1) of mustard plants as influenced by GA3 and humic acid spray are presented in Table 2.\r\nData on the nitrogen uptake revealed that at 30 DAS, there is no significant influence of GA3 and humic acid spray on the N uptake. Highest N uptake (2.2) was recorded with the application of RDF + foliar spray of GA3 @ 45 ppm at pod development (T3). This was found to be on par with all other treatments.\r\nAt 60 DAS highest value of N uptake (75.9) was recorded with the application of RDF + foliar spray of GA3 @ 45 ppm fb humic acid @ 1.5% with 2 days interval at flowering and pod development (T10), which was on par with the application of RDF + foliar spray of GA3 @ 45 ppm fb humic acid @ 1.5% with 2 days interval at flowering (T8) (73.7). Lowest value of N uptake (53.2) was recorded with the application of RDF + foliar spray of GA3 @ 45 ppm fb humic acid @ 1.5% with 2 days interval at pod development (T9), which was on par with RDF (60:40:40 N, P2O5,K2O kg ha-1) (T1), RDF + foliar spray of GA3 @ 45 ppm at pod development (T3) and RDF + foliar spray of humic acid @ 1.5% at pod development (T6) and (53.6, 54.1 and 53.6). \r\nAt harvest, the highest value of seed nitrogen uptake (58.2) was recorded with the application of RDF + foliar spray of GA3 @ 45 ppm fb humic acid @ 1.5% with 2 days interval at flowering and pod development (T10), which was on par with the application of RDF + foliar spray of GA3 @ 45 ppm fb humic acid @ 1.5% with 2 days interval at flowering(T8) and RDF + foliar spray of GA3 @ 45 ppm fb humic acid @ 1.5% with 2 days interval at pod development (T9) (54.6 and 52.8). Lowest value of N uptake in grain (36.7) was recorded with the application of RDF (60:40:40 N, P2O5,K2O kg ha-1) (T1), which was on par with the application of RDF + foliar spray of GA3 @ 45 ppm at flowering (T2) and RDF + foliar spray of GA3 @ 45 ppm at pod development (T3) (41.8 and 39.6). \r\nData on the nitrogen uptake by stover revealed that, the highest value of nitrogen uptake (42.7) was recorded with the application of RDF + foliar spray of GA3 @ 45 ppm fb humic acid @ 1.5% with 2 days interval at flowering and pod development (T10), which was on par with the application of RDF + foliar spray of GA3 @ 45 ppm fb humic acid @ 1.5% with 2 days interval at flowering (T8) (40.0). Lowest value of N uptake in stover (26.1) was recorded with the application of RDF (60:40:40 N, P2O5, K2O kg ha-1) (T1). \r\nThe highest value of total nitrogen uptake at harvest (100.8) was recorded with the application of RDF + foliar spray of GA3 @ 45 ppm fb humic acid @ 1.5% with 2 days interval at flowering and pod development (T10), which was on par with the application of RDF + foliar spray of GA3 @ 45 ppm fb humic acid @ 1.5% with 2 days interval at flowering (T8) and RDF + foliar spray of GA3 @ 45 ppm fb humic acid @ 1.5% with 2 days interval at flowering (T9) (94.6 and 92.5). Lowest value of total N uptake (62.8) was recorded with the application of RDF (60:40:40 N, P2O5,K2O kgha-1) (T1), which was on par with the application of RDF + foliar spray of GA3 @ 45 ppm at flowering (T2) and RDF + foliar spray of GA3 @ 45 ppm at pod development (T3) (71.5 and 68.2). \r\nPhosphorous uptake (kg ha-1). The results of Phosphorous uptake (kg ha-1) of mustard plants as influenced by GA3 and humic acid spray are presented in Table 3.\r\nData on the phosphorous uptake revealed that, at 30 DAS there is no significant influence of GA3 and humic acid spray on the P uptake. Highest P uptake (0.56) was recorded with the application of RDF + foliar spray of GA3 @ 45 ppm at flowering (T2). This was found to be on par with all other treatments.\r\nAt 60 DAS highest value of P uptake (16.6) was recorded with the application of RDF + foliar spray of GA3 @ 45 ppm fb humic acid @ 1.5% with 2 days interval at flowering and pod development (T10), which was on par with the application of RDF + foliar spray of GA3 @ 45 ppm fb humic acid @ 1.5% with 2 days interval at flowering (T8) (15.8). Lowest value of P uptake (10.3) was recorded with the application of RDF (60:40:40 N, P2O5, K2O kg ha-1) (T1) which was on par with application of RDF + foliar spray of GA3 @ 45 ppm at pod development (T3), RDF + foliar spray of humic acid @ 1.5% at pod development (T6) and RDF + foliar spray of GA3 @ 45 ppm fb humic acid @ 1.5% with 2 days interval at pod development (T9) (10.6, 10.5 and 10.4). \r\nAt harvest, the highest value of seed phosphorous uptake (7.3) was recorded with the application of RDF + foliar spray of GA3 @ 45 ppm fb humic acid @ 1.5% with 2 days interval at flowering and pod development (T10), which was on par with the application of RDF + foliar spray of GA3 @ 45 ppm fb humic acid @ 1.5% with 2 days interval at flowering (T8) and RDF + foliar spray of GA3 @ 45 ppm fb humic acid @ 1.5% with 2 days interval atpod development (T9) (6.7 and 6.5). Lowest value of P uptake in seed (4.3) was recorded with the application of RDF (60:40:40 N, P2O5, K2O kg ha-1) (T1), which was on par with the application of RDF + foliar spray of GA3 @ 45 ppm at flowering (T2) and RDF + foliar spray of GA3 @ 45 ppm at pod development (T3) (4.8 and 4.6). \r\nData on the phosphorous uptake by stover revealed that, the highest value of phosphorous uptake (12.6) was recorded with the application of RDF + foliar spray of GA3 @ 45 ppm fb humic acid @ 1.5% with 2 days interval at flowering and pod development (T10) which was on par with the application of RDF + foliar spray of GA3 @ 45 ppm fb humic acid @ 1.5% with 2 days interval at flowering (T8) (12.0). Lowest value of P uptake in stover (6.7) was recorded with the application of RDF (60:40:40 N, P2O5, K2O kg ha-1) (T1).\r\nThe highest value of total phosphorous uptake at harvest (19.8) was recorded with the application of RDF + foliar spray of GA3 @ 45 ppm fb humic acid @ 1.5% with 2 days interval at flowering and pod development (T10) which was on par with the application of RDF + foliar spray of GA3 @ 45 ppm fb humic acid @ 1.5% with 2 days interval at flowering (T8) (18.7). Lowest value of total P uptake (10.9) was recorded with the application of RDF (60:40:40 N, P2O5, K2O kgha-1) (T1) which was on par with the application of RDF + foliar spray of GA3@ 45 ppm at flowering (T2) and RDF + foliar spray of GA3 @ 45 ppm at pod development (T3) (12.2 and 12.1). \r\nPotassium uptake (kg ha-1). The results of potassium uptake (kg ha-1) of mustard plants as influenced by GA3 and humic acid spray are presented in Table 4.\r\n \r\nData on the potassium uptake revealed that, at 30 DAS there is no significant influence of GA3 and humic acid spray on the K uptake. Highest K uptake (1.91) was recorded with the application of RDF + foliar spray of GA3 @ 45 ppm at pod development (T3). This was found to be on par with all other treatments.\r\nAt 60 DAS highest value of K uptake (70.8) was recorded with the application of RDF + foliar spray of GA3 @ 45 ppm fb humic acid @ 1.5% with 2 days interval at flowering and pod development (T10), which was on par with the application of RDF + foliar spray of GA3 @ 45 ppm fb humic acid @ 1.5% with 2 days interval at flowering (T8) (69.1). Lowest value of K uptake (45.9) was recorded with the application of RDF + foliar spray of GA3 @ 45 ppm fb humic acid @ 1.5% with 2 days interval at pod development (T9) which was on par with application of RDF (60:40:40 N, P2O5,K2O kg ha-1) (T1), RDF + foliar spray of GA3 @ 45 ppm at pod development (T3) and RDF + foliar spray of humic acid @ 1.5% at pod development (T6) (47.2, 46.3 and 47.1). \r\nAt harvest, the highest value of seed potassium uptake (14.8) was recorded with the application of RDF + foliar spray of GA3 @ 45 ppm fb humic acid @ 1.5% with 2 days interval at flowering and pod development (T10) which was on par with application of RDF + foliar spray of GA3 @ 45 ppm fb humic acid @ 1.5% with 2 days interval at flowering (T8) and RDF + foliar spray of GA3 @ 45 ppm fb humic acid @ 1.5% with 2 days interval atpod development (T9) (13.8 and 13.3). Lowest value of K uptake in seed (9.3) was recorded with the application of RDF (60:40:40 N, P2O5, K2O kg ha-1) (T1), which was on par with the application of - RDF + foliar spray of GA3 @ 45 ppm at flowering (T2) RDF + foliar spray of GA3 @ 45 ppm at pod development (T3) and RDF + foliar spray of humic acid @ 1.5% at pod development (T6) (10.4, 9.8 and 11.1). \r\nThe highest value of potassium uptake in stover (61.9) was recorded with the application of RDF + foliar spray of GA3 @ 45 ppm fb humic acid @ 1.5% with 2 days interval at flowering and pod development (T10), which was on par with application of RDF + foliar spray of GA3 @ 45 ppm fb humic acid @ 1.5% with 2 days interval at flowering (T8) and RDF + foliar spray of GA3 @ 45 ppm fb humic acid @ 1.5% with 2 days interval atpod development (T9) (58.7 and 58.2). Lowest value of K uptake in straw (38.8) was recorded with the application RDF (60:40:40 N, P2O5, K2O kg ha-1) (T1) which was on par with the application of RDF + foliar spray of GA3 @ 45 ppm at pod development (T3) (42.2).\r\nThe highest value of total potassium uptake (76.6) was recorded with the application of RDF + foliar spray of GA3 @ 45 ppm fb humic acid @ 1.5% with 2 days interval at flowering and pod development (T10) which was on par with the application of RDF + foliar spray of GA3 @ 45 ppm fb humic acid @ 1.5% with 2 days interval at flowering (T8) (72.4). Lowest value of total K uptake (48.1) was recorded with the application of RDF (60:40:40 N, P2O5,K2O kg ha-1) (T1) which was on par with the application of RDF + foliar spray of GA3 @ 45 ppm at pod development (T3) (52.0). \r\nOn the whole the highest values of N, P and K uptake were recorded with the application of GA3 and humic acid at flowering and pod development which was on par with the application of GA3 and humic acid at only flowering.\r\nThe enhancing effect of humic acid on N, P and K uptake may be due to better development root systems (David et al., 1994) and increased the permeability of plant membranes (Ulukan, 2008). Furthermore, humic constituents are known to interact with the phospho-lipid structures of cell membranes and acts as carriers of nutrients, that allows to pass through them. These results are in accordance with those obtained by El-Ghamry et al. (2009) who reported that the foliar spray of humic acid caused significant increases in N, P and K contents of bean seeds. When applying humic acid substances to plants some of the humic acid also got sprayed on to the soil. It is assumed that, this also created a synergetic effect during uptake of nutrients by plants from soil (Bakry et al., 2013). \r\nGA3 is known to promote growth through increased absorption of nutrients (Singh et al., 2005) and nitrogen use efficiency (Khan et al., 2002). Due to increase in the growth rate, the GA3 sprayed plants exhibited more nutrient uptake. An increase in membrane permeability due to application of GA3would facilitate absorption and utilization of mineral nutrients and transportation of assimilates. This would also contribute towards increasing the capacity of the treated plants to improve the leaf NPK content. Combination of GA3with fertilizer dose may be attributed to their ameliorative effect on the primary growth potential and activities of nitrate reductase and carbonic anhydrase enzymes. Thereby, the available nutrients in the growth medium might have been absorbed more swiftly as reflected by increased leaf N, P and K contents which have perhaps led to maximum utilization of absorbed nutrients because of enhancement of vegetative growth and development of more number of pods. These results are agreed with the findings of Field and Mooney (1986); Connor et al. (1993).\r\n','Ganta Harshitha, Ch. Bharat Bhushan Rao, T. Ram Prakash and S.A. Hussain (2022). Effect of Hormones on Oil Yield and Nutrient Uptake of Mustard under Southern Telangana Agro-Climatic conditions. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 14(2a): 478-485.'),(5186,'134','Genetic variability and Correlation Studies for Vegetative and yield Attributing Traits in Hybrid Seedlings of Peach [Prunus persica (L.) Batsch]','Pushpendra Rajput*, Anirudh Thakur, Harminder Singh and Poonam','80 Genetic variability and Correlation Studies for Vegetative and yield Attributing Traits in Hybrid Seedlings of Peach [Prunus persica _L._ Batsch] Pushpendra Rajput.pdf','',1,'The experiment was conducted at Fruit Research Farm at Punjab Agricultural University, Ludhiana. The challenges in the experiment are that fruit set % of different cross combinations and survival of F-1 hybrid seedlings is very low in case of Kala Amritsari × Flordaguard. There is not a single hybrid seedlings are surviving in case of Kala Amritsari × Flordaguard. At 120 days after germination, highest seed germination was recorded in Flordaguard (97.78%) which did not different with Sharbati × Flordaguard (89.69%), highest plant height and petiole length were recorded in hybrid seedlings of Sharbati × Flordaguard 30.48 cm and 6.13mm, respectively. Similarly, leaf number and internodal length in seedlings of Flordaguard × Sharbati. The maximum leaf blade length and width at 120 days after germination were recorded in Sharbati fallowed by Sharbati × Flordaguard. Maximum leaf area was recorded in Sharbati (14.53 cm²) followed by hybrid seedlings of Sharbati × Flordaguard and Flordaguard × Sharbati (13.59 cm2 and 12.16 cm2, respectably). Chlorophyll levels in terms of SPAD unit maximum were recorded in the leaves from Flordaguard × Sharbati (42.87) followed by Sharbati Flordaguard (37.40) which did not differ significantly from Sharbati and Flordaguard. In all traits, high phenotypic coefficient of variation (PCV) were noted than the genotypic coefficient of variation (GCV), it was recorded higher in leaf size, leaf area, Fresh shoot weight, Fresh root weight, shoot length, leaf bled length, leaf number and plant height. The genotypic and phenotypic variance were higher in case of Seed germination (%), Shoot length, chlorophyll level (SPAD Units), leaf size, leaf number, leaf area and plant height. Ranges of Heritability in all traits from 11.87 to 94.75, of which most of showed very high heritability, except some traits such as Leaf Blade Ratio and seedlings girth. Traits like shoot length, leaf size, leaf bled length, leaf area, Fresh shoot weight, Fresh root weight and chlorophyll level showed more value of heritability along with high to moderate genetic advance pointing additive gene action, so the selection may be effective for these traits. Plant height was positively correlated with leaf number, seedlings girth, leaf area, root and shoot length, internodal length, petiole length and chlorophyll SPAD value. Seedlings girth was positively associated with all studied traits.','Hybridization, variability, heritability, genetic advance, correlation and rootstock breeding','On the basis of beyond argumentation, it is understandable that use the seedlings of Sharbati × Flordaguard as a rootstock purpose in peach as compare to Sharbati, Flordaguard and Flordaguard × Sharbati seedlings. Since Sharbati × Flordaguard seedlings have higher seedling height, girth, root and shoot length. Traits like seed germination % and shoot length were found effective for selection because having higher value of genotypic and phenotypic variance which show presence of inherent genetic variance. High extent of GCV and PCV revealed that presence of broad level of genetic variability in traits like leaf size, area, and number, leaf bled length, and plant height, so level of improvement is higher. Range of the high heritability in the traits like shoots length, leaf size, seed germination %, leaf blade length, leaf area, fresh shoot and root wt. is due to presence of additive gene effect. The genotypic correlation coefficients of vegetative and yield traits were more than phenotypic correlation coefficients in almost all samples. ','INTRODUCTION\r\nRootstock has an important effect on performance of the peach scion cultivars, which includes growth rate, tree size, productivity, nutrient uptake, time of defoliation, bloom time, tree survival, nematode infestation and resistance to canker and PTSL Picolotto et al. (2009), Ye et al. (2009); Beckman et al. (2002). The biotic and abiotic factors mostly determine by rootstocks and play main role in performance of plants. No one rootstock can be rated as an ideal rootstock for all situations. Sharbati variety of peach is used as rootstock in sub-tropical regions of India, because of its wide adaptability to warm climatic conditions, but poor graft compatibility and rooting ability and susceptibility to root-knot nematode. In crop improvement programs, germplasm collection, confirmation of genetic variability and association of traits are very important steps. The presence of high genetic variability and heritability in plats population have more chances to selection and develop a line.\r\nThe heritability along with genetic advance over means (GAM) is more fruitful for see the outcome of the selection Ramanjinappa et al. (2011). The studies of the correlation are help in for the detect the degree of interaction in various traits and develop breeding method for crop improvement. The selection of a character as a measure to improve one more character depends on the proportion of relationships among them and these relationships are depending on genotypic and phenotypic correlation Imtiyaz et al. (2012). For the further improvement an important objective is develop a superior cultivar with improved yield and good fruit quality. Hence, peach breeding programs are working to provide efficient alternative rootstocks for peach with best rooting capacity, graft harmony, resistance to root-knot nematode, canker, PTS, better adaptation to chlorosis, drought and water logging. The main purpose of this experiment was to assess the variability, heritability and correlations in 16 vegetative and reproductive traits of peach. The obtained information can be useful for select the best genotypes as better rootstocks.\r\nMATERIALS AND METHODS\r\nThe experiment was conducted from 2016 to 2018 at the Fruit Research Farm of the Punjab Agricultural University in Ludhiana. The average maximum temperature is 12.9 to 33.9° C and the average minimum temperature is 5.7 to 26.9 °C. The average annual rainfall in this area is about 885 mm. Of these, 75% is the monsoon season, from July to September. The experiment was set up with a randomized block design with 5 replications. The research material consists of two parents and two F1 hybrid peaches, namely Sharbati, Flordaguard, Sharbati × Flordaguard and Flordaguard × Sharbati, are maintained at Fruit Research Farm of the Punjab Agricultural University, Ludhiana.\r\nStratified seeds were sown in portrays in the month of May to June and seed germination % are workout. After establishment of seedlings of parents and F1 hybrids in portrays were transplanted under field conditions and 15 uniform healthy seedlings were maintained for each genotype. The plants were raised as per the recommended package and practices for peach cultivation in lower hills or sub-tropical conditions. A total number of 16 observations were recorded from each treatment. Chlorophyll level was measured as SPAD value taken by a chlorophyll meter (SPAD 502 plus Konica Minolta Sensing, Europe B.V.). Morphological characters of the parents and hybrid seedlings were recorded based on Descriptors for Peach. Leaf area (cm2) of hybrid seedlings was measured by using Leaf Area Meter (CI-203 Area Meter). Growth parameters like plant height (cm), internodal length (cm), leaf blade length and width (cm) carried out with help of scale. Plant girth was worked out in the millimeter with the help of Digital Vernier’s Calliper (MitutoyoInc, Japan). \r\nThe data obtained from different traits were analyzed statistically by using ‘F’ test and the significance of difference of means was estimated by LSD test at 5% level of probability Gomez and Gomez, (1984). The data were analyzed by using OP Stat software (http://hau.ernet.in/about/opstat.php) Sheoran et al. (1998). Genotypic variance and phenotypic variance, GCV and PCV were workout accordingly method suggested by Burton (1952) and the expected genetic advance for various characters under selection was carried out according to Allard (1960). Al-Jibouri et al. (1958) suggest the method for the workout of phenotypic and genotypic correlation coefficients.\r\nRESULTS AND DISCUSSION\r\nBreeding programs for qualitative and quantitative traits require comprehensive information on the extent and type of genotypic variation available. Higher levels of genetic variation were observed in peaches due to the predominance of cross-pollination and exclusive seed reproduction. The data shown in Table 1 revealed that there are significant differences between parents and hybrids for all 16 nutritional and yield-related traits. Parental interactions in hybrids showed significant differences for some traits. Results of experiments revealed that parents and their hybrids have higher genetic variation in different traits.\r\nThe data pertaining to the plant growth parameters of the hybrids and the parents were given in Table 1. Maximum height of plant at 120 days after germination was recorded in hybrid seedlings of Sharbati × Flordaguard followed by Flordaguard × Sharbati. Maximum leaf number was recorded in the seedlings of Flordaguard × Sharbati which did not differ significantly with the leaf number in seedlings of Sharbati × Flordaguard. It was closely followed by leaf number in Flordaguard. There were no significant differences in plant girth of seedlings of the parents and hybrids. Internodal length of seedlings showed significant differences, maximum internodal length was recorded in the seedlings of Flordaguard × Sharbati followed by Sharbati × Flordaguard. Length of petiole maximum was recorded in Sharbati × Flordaguard followed by Flordaguard and Flordaguard × Sharbati. Significant difference was found in Leaf blade length and width; maximum was recorded in Sharbati followed by Sharbati × Flordaguard. Leaf blade ratio showed no significant difference only at 120 days after seed germination. The maximum leaf size was recorded in Sharbati followed by hybrid seedlings of Sharbati × Flordaguard and Flordaguard × Sharbati respectively. Similarly, Singh et al. (2017) also recorded variation in the plant growth parameters of hybrid seedlings. Highest plant height (160.0 cm) and number of branches (13) after 11 months of planting was recorded in hybrid of FlordaGlo × Tropic Sweet. Parents with low chilling requirement and maximum fruit development period showed maximum seedling growth. Likewise, in almond and peach hybrid seedlings, Shaltout et al. (2015) recorded variation in seedling height, stem girth and number of leaves. Maximum leaf area was recorded in Sharbati followed by hybrid seedlings of Sharbati × Flordaguard and Flordaguard × Sharbati respectably. The higher leaf area value in Sharbati and Sharbati × Flordaguard in comparison to Flordaguard might be due to the genotypic effects. Singh et al. (2005) also found variation among peach varieties for leaf area with maximum leaf area in Shan-i-Punjab peach followed by Early Grand, Florda Prince and Sharbati.\r\nThe chlorophyll level in terms of SPAD units was recorded highest in the leaves of seedlings from Flordaguard × Sharbati which was at par with the Sharbati × Flordaguard. The SPAD value in Sharbati × Flordaguard did not differ significantly from the SPAD values in Sharbati and Flordaguard seedlings. The higher SPAD units in Flordaguard × Sharbati may be due to darker green colour leaves. The lower SPAD units in hybrid seedlings of Sharbati seedlings may also be due to the lighter green colour. Guler and Buyuk (2004) and Shaaban and El-Bendary (1999) recorded that nitrogen level in the leaf of cucumber was proportional to SPAD meter reading. The chlorophyll concentration in tomatoes cv. Santa Clara varies from 43.8 to 45.5 SPAD units Guimaraes et al. (1999).\r\nThe highest seed germination was recorded in Flordaguard (97.78%) than Sharbati × Flordaguard (89.69%). followed by seed germination in Flordaguard × Sharbati (85.44%) and Sharbati (80.07%). The seeds of early maturing low chill peach and nectarine are immature at fruit maturity and show very poor seed germination. Shaltout et al. (2015) recorded high seed germination %age (68 to 74%) in peach rootstock hybrids from Om El-Fahm × Okinawa and M. Dalet × Okinawa; and also in parents following self-pollination. Similarly, Singh et al. (2017) also recorded high germination percent in hybrid seeds from FlordaGlo × Tropic Sweet (81.5%), Tropic Beauty × Flordagrand (80.3%) and Flordagrand × Tropic Beauty (68.0 %). The higher germination %ages in the hybrids and the parents in the present studies might be due to higher fruit development period (>100 days) of the seed parent. Fruit development period is a common index for embryo maturity used by peach breeders. The peach varieties which have a fruit developmental period of <80 days need embryo rescue for successful seed germination while, the varieties having a fruit development period of more than >100 days can be germinated after stratification before the drying of the seeds Bacon and Byrne, (2005). The stratification requirement of seed is positively correlated with the seed parents chilling requirements Perez (1990).\r\nThe highest root and shoot length was recorded in Sharbati × Flordaguard (17.57 cm and 49.0 cm, respectively) followed by Sharbati (17.44 cm and 47.01 cm, respectively) and Flordaguard (16.49 cm and 42.51 cm). Maximum fresh root weight was recorded in Sharbati (5.86 g) which was followed by fresh root weight in Flordaguard × Sharbati (5.19g). The maximum fresh shoot weight was found in Sharbati × Flordaguard (13.20g) which were at par with other genotypes. The highest shoot dry weight was noted in Sharbati × Flordaguard (7.60g) and it did not differ significantly from shoot dry weight in other genotypes.\r\nGenotypic and phenotypic coefficient of variation, heritability, genetic advance (GA) and associated coefficients are important in disclosing and understanding a clear picture of existing demographic differences and the recruitment of an appropriate developmental approach. Complex traits like yield is influenced by reproductive, vegetative and crop characteristics, as well as environment. Therefore, the diversity of these factors is the sum total of the genetic effects of the affected genes and the influence of the environment. Therefore, it is very important to separate the complete diversity into heritable and non-heritable components because only heritable variations can be used in selection. Genotypic coefficient of variation coupled with heritability estimates and GA give the better picture of the expected value of genetic gain to be obtained from phenotypic selection Burton (1952). Heritability associated with genetic gain to be more useful than heritability values only as it allows predicting the outcome of selecting each of the best genotypes Johnson et al. (1955).\r\nVariability level of genotypes was evaluated in the form of genotypic and phenotypic variance, GCV, PCV, heritability, genetic advance and genetic advance mean as indicated in Table 2. Highest genotypic and phenotypic variance were noted in Seed germination % (54.09 and 63.17) fallowed by shoot length (49.32 and 52.05) and SPAD units (13.37 and 18.67) respectably, and moderate in leaf size, leaf number and leaf area and lower level in remaining traits. Level of GCV is slightly lower in all traits than PCV. The range of GCV and PCV were recorded higher in traits like leaf size and leaf area while moderate in fresh shoot and root weight, shoot length, leaf number and plant height. Range of heritability was noted highest for the shoot length (94.75) than leaf size (92.36) and seed germination % (85.62), traits like leaf blade length (81.41), leaf area (80.68) and fresh shoot and root weight (79.14 and 79.18) showed lower % of heritability. GA was recorded higher in shoot length (14.09) fallowed by seed germination % (14.02), leaf size and SPAD units (8.20) whereas GAM% was observed highest for leaf size (70.01), leaf area (61.56) followed by leaf blade length, shoot and root length and fresh root weight (36.15, 34.54, 32.00 and 31.41) respectably. Heritability along with GA recorded higher in Leaf size and leaf area while moderate in leaf blade length, fresh shoot and root weight and fresh shoot length. Traits like shoot length and seed germination % were showed maximum heritability coupled with maximum GA while higher heritability with moderate GA recorded for leaf size and SPAD units.\r\nTraits like seed germination % and shoot length were found effective for selection because having higher value of genotypic and phenotypic variance which show presence of inherent genetic variance. According to the result the estimated level of PCV more than level of GCV, which revealed that there is rarer effect of environment on the traits. High extent of GCV and PCV revealed that presence of broad level of genetic variability in traits like leaf size, area, and number, leaf bled length, and plant height, so level of improvement is higher. Range of the high heritability in the traits like shoots length, leaf size, seed germination %, leaf blade length, leaf area, fresh shoot and root wt. is due to presence of additive gene effect, which revealed that these traits are beast for direct selection. Similarly, vegetative, reproductive and fruit yield traits in papaya, strawberry and agro-morphological traits of Gossypium herbaceum and horsegram with high GCV, PCV, heritability and GA was reported by Singh et al. (2018); Davamani et al. (2013); Mishra et al. (2015); Kumar et al. (2021); Priyanka et al. (2021) respectably. Maximum range of GCV with maximum heritability in leaf area and size, fresh shoot and root weight and shoot length was suggesting that selection is more fruitful for improvement of traits. Moderate or low level of heritability estimates with low to medium GA were noted in leaf blade ratio, width and seedling is due to presence of non-additive gene actions. Traits, leaf size and area exhibit higher and leaf blade length, shoot length and fresh shoot and root wt. showed common ranges of heritability with maximum range of GAM, so presence of predominance of additive gene action in these traits are good for selection and further improvement.\r\nGenotypic (Table 3) and Phenotypic (Table 4), correlation matrix showed outstanding positive relationship for traits like plant height with leaf number, root length, petiole length and internodal length. Leaf number is highly positively associated with plant height and internodal length, but plant girth is positively associated with length of petiole and shoot, leaf blade width, chlorophyll content and fresh shoot and root weight. A positive outstanding correlation of internodal length was observed with plant height, leaf number and root length, while petiole length is associated with plant height, plant girth, internodal, root and shoot length at phenotypic and genotypic level. Most of leaf traits like leaf blade length, width, and ratio, leaf size and leaf area were positively and significant associated with chlorophyll level, root and shoot length, fresh shoot and root weight and within each trait. In case of chlorophyll content level, a positive significant genotypic and phenotypic correlation was observed in traits like plant girth, leaf blade length, width and ratio, leaf size, leaf area root and shoot length, fresh shoot and root weight. Traits such as root and shoot length positively associated with plant height, plant girth, length of internodal, leaf blade and petiole, leaf blade width and ratio, leaf size, leaf area and chlorophyll content level. Fresh shoot and root weight showed positive significant phenotypic and genotypic correlation with plant girth leaf blade length, leaf blade width, leaf blade ratio, leaf size, leaf area, chlorophyll content level and within each other. Genotypic and phenotypic positive correlation association of plant height, leaf number and girth was observed with internodal length, petiole length, shoot and root length and fresh shoot weight. Positive association of internodal length and petiole length was observed with height of plant, leaf number, root length and height of plant, girth, internodal length and root and shoot length respectably both at phenotypic and genotypic level. Height of the plant was found positively and significantly agree with traits like number of leaf (0.875), internodal length (0.962), petiole length (0.873) and root length (0.703) while, girth of the stem was recorded positively and significantly correlated along with petiole length (0.572), leaf blade width (0.729), chlorophyll content (0.922), shoot length (0.975), fresh shoot weight (0.966) and fresh root weight (0.481) respectably at genotypic level. Leaf number (0.570), internodal length (0.679), petiole length (0.542) and root length (0.630) had positive significant with plant height while, shoot length (0.500) and fresh shoot weight (0.500) had positive significant with plant girth respectably at phenotypic level.\r\nThe genotypic correlation coefficients of vegetative and yield traits were more than phenotypic correlation coefficients in almost all samples, found that effect of environment repress the phenotypic association between these characters. In pomegranate, Mir et al. (2009) noted positive and significant correlations for yield per plant along the traits likewise plant height, fruit dia., weight and fruits per plant. In same trend Singh et al. (2018) in case of papaya yield per plant noted positive and significant correlations along yield traits like height of plant at flower initiation and at first fruit maturity, length of petiole, inflorescence and leaf, days to flowering and fruit maturity, number of fruits/ plant, fruit weight, dia., length and fruit cavity index and stem dia., fruit yield per plant in strawberry was confidently and significantly correlated with yield allocated traits at both phenotypic and genotypic level Mishra et al. (2015). \r\nOn the basis of beyond argumentation, it is understandable that use the seedlings of Sharbati × Flordaguard as a rootstock purpose in peach as compare to Sharbati, Flordaguard and Flordaguard × Sharbati seedlings. Since Sharbati × Flordaguard seedlings have higher seedling height, girth, root and shoot length. Traits like seed germination % and shoot length were found effective for selection because having higher value of genotypic and phenotypic variance which show presence of inherent genetic variance. High extent of GCV and PCV revealed that presence of broad level of genetic variability in traits like leaf size, area, and number, leaf bled length, and plant height, so level of improvement is higher. Range of the high heritability in the traits like shoots length, leaf size, seed germination %, leaf blade length, leaf area, fresh shoot and root wt. is due to presence of additive gene effect. The genotypic correlation coefficients of vegetative and yield traits were more than phenotypic correlation coefficients in almost all samples. These traits are important for direct selection of hybrid seedlings for the further use in peach breeding programme as a rootstock and for the evaluation in next generation for check the performance of hybrid seedlings and select the better one for future use.\r\n','Pushpendra Rajput, Anirudh Thakur, Harminder Singh and Poonam (2022). Genetic variability and Correlation Studies for Vegetative and yield Attributing Traits in Hybrid Seedlings of Peach [Prunus persica (L.) Batsch]. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 14(2a): 486-492.'),(5187,'135','Effect of Water Soluble Fertilizer, Micronutrients, Humic Acid and Seaweed extract on Growth and Yield of Rice','J. Sivakamipriya*, S. Suresh, K. Manikandan and P.T. Ramesh','81 Effect of Water Soluble Fertilizer, Micronutrients, Humic Acid and Seaweed extract on Growth and Yield of Rice J. Sivakamipriya.pdf','',4,'A field experiment was undertaken at Agricultural College and Research Institute, Killikulam during late pishanam season (Dec 2021 - Apr 2022) to determine the effect of water soluble fertilizer, micronutrients, humic acid and seaweed extract (Sargassum wightii) on growth and yield of rice (var.ASD 16). The experiment was laid out in a randomized block design with 10 treatment combinations and 3 replications. The results revealed that the soil application of STCR-NPK with humic acid @ 10kg/ha along with foliar spray of 1% liquid micronutrients, 1% WSF (19:19:19), and seaweed extract @2.5 ml/l (T10) thrice at 15, 30, 50 DAT recorded significantly highest growth attributes such as plant height (108), number of tillers per m2 (376), number of productive tillers per m2 (345), grain yield (6123 kg ha-1) and straw yield (7242 kg ha-1) of rice followed by STCR- NPK with foliar application of 1% liquid micronutrients, 1% WSF, (19:19:19), 1% humic acid and seaweed extract @ 2.5 ml/l thrice with grain yield of 6098 kg ha-1 and straw yield of 7125 kg ha-1. The grain yield was 9.84% higher than the STCR- NPK treatment. The highest uptake of N (85.2 kg ha-1), P (10.83 kg ha-1), K (108.2 kg ha-1), Cu (8.05 g ha-1), Mn (32.1 g ha-1), Fe (77.3 g ha-1), Zn (48.3 g ha-1) and highest agronomic efficiency of N, P, K (18.9, 53.2, 133) respectively were recorded in the same treatment. However the highest net return (Rs. 71401 ha-1) and B:C ratio (2.21) was recorded by the latter treatment viz. soil application of STCR- NPK with foliar spray of 1% liquid micronutrients, 1% WSF (19:19:19), 1% and humic acid and seaweed extract @ 2.5 ml/l thrice and could be recommended to get higher grain yield and economic returns of rice cultivation in Tamiraparani command area.','Water soluble fertilizer (19:19:19), Micronutrients, Humic acid, Seaweed extract (Sargassum wightii)','The study found that the application of STCR-NPK along with foliar sprays of 1% liquid micronutrients, 1% WSF, 1% humic acid, and 2% SWE @ 2.5 ml/l (T8) at all crucial stages had boosted rice\'s growth, yield parameters and yield (9.59% over STCR-NPK control). This method of fertilizer management for farmer fields was determined to be economically viable.','INTRODUCTION\r\nRice is the most significant and dominant cereal food crop in India with one-fourth of the total area under cultivation. It can be grown successfully in a hot, humid area as a main food crop. India is among the top ten producers of rice. In India, 122 million metric tonnes of rice were produced, (Anonymous 2021), with more than 11.0 percent of the global production share. India is the second-largest producer of rice after China. To meet the global requirement of rice, efficient nutrient management should be practiced. \r\nThe water-soluble fertilizers (19:19:19) (WSF) supply to crops with the ideal rates of nutrients throughout the growth cycle in the most efficient way possible without endangering soil and water resources. They do this by being highly soluble, having a low salt index, and having a high concentration of primary nutrients. Foliar nutrition of WSF provides effective nutrition for correcting deficiencies, especially in short-duration crops, and aids in the resolution of problems including nutrient immobilisation, fixation, and leaching (Bharaani et al., 2020). Nutritional deficits in plants can be quickly recovered by foliar nutrition. It encourages a number of processes that influence crop output potential, including nitrogen metabolism, protein consumption, chlorophyll formation, carbonic-anhydrase activity, stress tolerance, and oxidative damage prevention (Kulhare et al., 2017).\r\nHumic acid augments the physical, chemical and biological properties of the soil and influences plant growth by inducing the growth of roots. Initiation of root enhancement and increased root growth may be observed by the application of humic acids and fulvic acids to the soil (Pettit, 2004). Nutrient elements are bound to humic acid molecules in a form that can be readily utilized by various living organisms. As a result humic acids (HAs) function as important ion exchange and metal complexing (chelating) systems thus improve the nutrient uptake by plants. The study is focused on the management of nutrient application by progressively adding STCR- NPK, humic acid and sea-weed granules as soil application and water soluble fertilizer, liquid micronutrient, humic acid and sea-weed extract as foliar spray.\r\nMATERIALS AND METHODS\r\nThe field experiment was conducted at B block of central farm, Agricultural College and Research Institute, Killikulam using the test crop of paddy (ASD 16) during late Pishanam season (Dec – April, 2022). The experimental field was located at 8º42´06.8´´N 77º51´27.1´´E. The soil of the experimental site belonged to Manakkarai series and according to USDA soil taxanomy it was classified as sandy clay loam, fine non-arid kaolinitic isomegathermic family of Typic Haplustalf. Soil samples were collected from experimental site and initial physical and chemical characters were analysed. The soil pH was 7.04 with normal EC (0.23 dS m-1). The available NPK was low (238 kg ha-1), medium (19 kg ha-1) and high (492 kg ha-1) respectively. The experiment was laid out in a randomized block design with 10 treatment combinations and 3 replications. The treatment details were T1- Absolute control; T2- STCR- NPK; T3- STCR- NPK + Humic acid @10 kg ha-1; T4- STCR- NPK + Sea weed granules @ 15 kg ha-1; T5-STCR- NPK + Humic acid @ 10 kg ha-1 + Sea weed granules @ 15 kg ha-1; T6 - STCR- NPK + foliar spray of 1% liquid micronutrients + 1% WSF + 1% Humic acid; T7- STCR- NPK + foliar spray of 1% liquid micronutrients +1%WSF + SWE @ 2.5ml/l; T8- STCR-NPK + foliar spray of 1% liquid micronutrients + 1%WSF + 1%Humic acid + SWE @ 2.5ml/l; T9- STCR- NPK + Sea weed granules @ 15 kg ha-1 + foliar spray of 1% liquid Micronutrients + 1% WSF + 1% Humic acid; and T10- STCR- NPK + Humic acid @ 10 kg ha-1 + foliar spray of 1% liquid micronutrients +1% WSF + SWE @ 2.5ml/l;\r\nThe STCR-NPK suggested dose of NPK (175:62.5:25) was administered according to schedule to the experimental plots. Urea, SSP, and MOP were the respective sources of N, P, and K. SSP was used as the basal application, whereas urea and MOP were applied in four equal splits at Basal, Active Tillering (AT), Panicle Initiation (PI), and Heading. Humic acid and seaweed extract (Sargassum wightii) were added to the soil during critical rice growth stages viz. Basal, AT, PI, Heading stages at 15, 30, and 50 DAT respectively for each treatment. The foliar applications of water-soluble fertilizer, liquid micronutrient, humic acid, and seaweed extract were made at all the three critical growth stages. The plant height, SPAD value, the number of productive tillers m-2, 1000 grain weight, grain and straw yield were recorded. The outcomes of the study such as soil characteristics, biometric observations and the yield data were statistically examined (Snedecor and Cochran 1967). The curves and diagrams were produced using Microsoft Office Word and Excel. The gathered data were subjected to an analysis of variances using the AGRES software to determine the statistical significance of the effect of treatments.\r\nRESULT AND DISCUSSION\r\nA. Growth Parameters\r\nAnalyzing the data in Table 1 revealed that the application of humic acid, seaweed extract and other fertilizers in soil and as foliar spray significantly influenced the plant height, SPAD value, number of tillers m-2 over STCR-NPK control. The treatment STCR-NPK with soil application of humic acid @10 kg ha-1 and foliar spray of 1% liquid micronutrients, 1% WSF and SWE @ 2.5ml/l (T10) showed highest plant height (40.3, 65.3, 108.3 cm), number of tillers m-2 (243, 313, 376), SPAD value (42.1, 42.9, 45.2) at three critical stages of active tillering (15 DAT), PI (30 DAT) and Heading (50 DAT) stages respectively. It was on par with treatment STCR-NPK, foliar spray of 1% liquid micronutrients, 1%WSF, 1% Humic acid and SWE @ 2.5ml/l (T8).\r\nThe foliar micronutrient spraying greatly boosted plant height, which could be attributed to a sufficient supply of nutrients to sink and thereby accelerated plant metabolism of auxin and enzymatic activity (Sudha and Stalin 2015). It is due to the enhanced photosynthetic rate, induced root development, cell division, and cell enlargement, which led to an increase in plant height and the number of tillers hill-1. These findings concur with Rasool et al., (2015) conclusion .The application of humic acid along with micronutrient mixture recorded the significantly higher plant height, no.of tillers m-2 of transplanted rice was also reported by Vinod Kumar et al., (2019). The foliar application throughout the critical growth stages enhanced the supply of essential nutrients impacting the production of chlorophyll pigments which appeared to increase the chlorophyll content of rice, accelerated the light absorption and speed up the photosynthetic processes. In a related study, Zayed and his associates found that absorption of sufficient nutrients considerably improved the chlorophyll content (SPAD index) as compared to control (Zayed et al., 2011). \r\nB. Yield Parameters\r\nA significant increase in straw and grain yield was observed with the application of fertilizers, humic acid and sea weed extract (table 2). The highest number of productive tillers m-2 (345), 1000 grain weight (24.8 g), straw (7242 kg ha-1) and grain (6123 kg ha-1) yields were recorded in the treatment by the application of STCR-NPK and humic acid @10 kg ha-1 in soil along with foliar spray of 1% liquid micronutrients, 1% WSF and SWE @ 2.5ml/l (T10). This was followed by (T8). The grain yield of rice in treatment STCR-NPK and humic acid @10 kg ha-1 + foliar spray of 1% liquid micronutrient + 1%WSF + SWE @ 2.5ml/l (T10) was 9.84% higher than the STCR-NPK control (T2).\r\nBharaani Sri et al. (2020) reported that foliar spray of 1% TNAU Liquid Micronutrient + 2% TNAU water-soluble fertilizers (19:19:19) along with a recommended dose of fertilizers at active tillering, panicle initiation and 50% flowering showed the maximum growth, LAI, SPAD value and straw and grain yield. According to Rathore et al. (2009), foliar spray of 15 percent seaweed extract treatment resulted in the highest yield of soybean. Addagarla et al., (2022), stated that bio-stimulants such as humic acid and seaweed extract substantially improve the quality and yield parameters in rice by enhanced enzyme activity, photosynthetic rate. The study conducted by Rahmatullah Khan et al. (2006) showed that direct application of micronutrient significantly influenced the grain yield of wheat and rice crop. The number of spikes m-2, number of spikes per plant, spike length, plant height and 1000 grain weight of wheat and rice were significantly increased over control. Saha et al., (2013) showed that the positive trend of humic acid and poultry manure in rice cultivar BRRI dhan 39. The highest grain yield was obtained by the application of humic acid along with poultry manure.\r\nOn the basis of above findings, it could be concluded that for obtaining higher grain yield, number of productive tillers m-2, other growth and yield attributes, the treatment STCR-NPK with soil application of humic acid @10 kg ha-1 and foliar spray of 1% liquid micronutrients, 1% WSF and SWE @ 2.5ml/l (T10) was found to be the best.\r\nT1- Absolute control; T2- STCR-NPK; T3- STCR-NPK + Humic acid @10 kg ha-1; T4- STCR-NPK + Sea weed granules @ 15 kg ha-1; T5-STCR-NPK + Humic acid @ 10 kg ha-1+ Sea weed granules @ 15 kg ha-1; T6 - STCR-NPK + foliar spray of 1% liquid micronutrients +1% WSF + 1% Humic acid; T7- STCR-NPK + foliar spray of 1% liquid micronutrients +1%WSF + SWE @ 2.5ml/l; T8- STCR-NPK + foliar spray of 1% liquid micronutrients +1%WSF + 1%Humic acid +SWE @ 2.5ml/l; T9- STCR-NPK+ Sea weed granules @ 15 kg ha-1 + foliar spray of 1% liquid Micronutrients +1%WSF+ 1% Humic acid; T10- STCR-NPK +Humic acid @10 kg ha-1 + foliar spray of 1% liquid micronutrients + 1% WSF + SWE @2.5ml/l.\r\nC. Nutrient uptake\r\nThe increased uptake of NPK and micronutrients with the application of water soluble fertilizers, micronutrients, humic acid and seaweed extract at harvest stage were depicted in Table 3 and Fig 1. Significant increase in NPK uptake (85.2, 10.83, 108.2 kg ha-1) and micronutrients uptake viz., Fe, Mn, Cu and Zn (77.3, 32.1, 8.05, 48.3 g ha-1) were observed on STCR-NPK with soil application of humic acid @10 kg ha-1 and foliar spray of 1% liquid micronutrients, 1% WSF and SWE @2.5ml/l (T10). This was followed by T8.\r\nSeaweed extract treatments were found to improve uptake of N, P, K, and S (Rathore et al., 2009). Significant amount of N, P and K uptake were recorded with the application of humic acid as foliar spray and soil application (Paramasivan, 2015). Vahap Katkat et al., (2009) investigated the effects of humic material applications in the soil and on the uptake of dry matter yield and nutrient absorption in wheat grown in calcareous soils. The application of 1 g kg-1 humic acid treatment resulted in the maximum dry weight and nutrient absorption. The uptake of Mg, Fe, and Mn was statistically significant after foliar application of humic acid. According to Mahmut Yıldıztekin et al. (2018) brown sea weed extract and humic acid significantly enhanced the enzyme activity viz., peroxidase (POD), catalase (CAT) superoxide dismutase (SOD), in the plant thereby increased macro and micronutrients uptake.\r\nAgronomic efficiency of NPK. The agronomic efficiency of NPK ranged from 13.3-18.9, 37.1-53.2, 92.8-132.9 respectively (Table 4). The higher agronomic efficiency of NPK (18.9, 53.2, 132.9) were recorded in STCR-NPK, soil application of humic acid@10 kg ha-1 along with foliar spray of 1% liquid micronutrients, 1% WSF and SWE @ 2.5ml/l T(10). This was on par with STCR-NPK + 1% liquid micronutrient + 1% WSF + 1% Humic acid + SWE @ 2.5ml/l (18.3, 51.3, 128.3) respectively (T8).Economics. Utilizing the rice yield and the market price in effect at the time of harvest, the economics reflecting the gross return in rupees per hectare was calculated. The maximum net return was recorded with STCR-NPK + 1% liquid micronutrient + 1% WSF + 1% humic acid + SWE @ 2.5ml/l (T8), as shown in Table 5. (Rs.71401). The afore mentioned treatment, recorded the highest B:C ratio (2.21).','J. Sivakamipriya, S. Suresh, K. Manikandan and P.T. Ramesh (2022). Effect of Water Soluble Fertilizer, Micronutrients, Humic Acid and Seaweed extract on Growth and Yield of Rice. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 14(2a): 493-498.'),(5188,'135','Effect of Nano Urea vs Conventional Urea on the Nutrient Content, Uptake and Economics of Black Wheat (Triticum aestivum L.) along with Biofertilizers','Kannoj, J. Choudhary*, Devendera Jain, Manish Tomar, Ritesh Patidar and Ruchika Choudhary','82 Effect of Nano Urea vs Conventional Urea on the Nutrient Content, Uptake and Economics of Black Wheat _Triticum aestivum L._ along with Biofertilizers Dr. J. Choudhary.pdf','',4,'To study the effect of nitrogen sources and biofertilizers on the nutrient content, uptake and economics of black wheat, a field research experiment in factorial randomized block design was performed at Instructional Farm, Department of Agronomy, Rajasthan College of Agriculture, Udaipur (Rajasthan). The experiment comprised of five levels of nitrogen sources i.e., N1 (100 % Conventional urea fertilizer), N2 (75 % Conventional urea + 25 % of Nano urea fertilizer), N3 (50 % Conventional urea + 50 % of Nano urea fertilizer), N4 (25 % Conventional urea + 75 % of Nano urea fertilizer) and N5 (100 % of Nano urea fertilizer) and four levels of biofertilizers i.e., (B1: No biofertilizer, B2: Azotobacter, B3: PSB and B4: Azotobacter + PSB) which were replicated thrice. The maximum N, P, K, Fe and Zn content and uptake in grain and straw were recorded under N3 (50 % Conventional urea + 50 % of Nano urea fertilizer) as compared to the remaining treatments. The utmost net return (109637 ` ha-1) and benefit-cost ratio (2.37) were also obtained under N3 (50 % Conventional urea + 50 % of Nano urea fertilizer). Inoculation of seed with conglomerated mixture of Azotobacter + PSB (B4) appreciably increases the N, P, K, Fe and Zn content and uptake in grain and straw. It also leads to significant enhancement in net return (105367 ` ha-1) and benefit-cost ratio (2.27) as compared to all other treatments of biofertilizer. But under the diverse treatment combination of both these factors, there was no any significant variation reported for anthocyanin content in black wheat grain. So nanofertilizer application proved more practical and efficient in improving nutrient content, uptake and economics of black wheat as compared to conventional fertilizer.','Nano urea, Black wheat, Biofertilizer, Azotobacter, PSB','Based on the above cited results of the experiment it could be concluded that nano urea spray in combination with application of conventional urea fertilizer i.e., treatment N3 (50 % Conventional urea + 50 % of Nano urea fertilizer) significantly increased the nutrient content and uptake of the black wheat crop and also improve the economic return. Similarly, seed inoculation of black wheat with conglomerated mixture of Azotobacter and PSB (B4) considerably improved the nutrient content, uptake, net return and benefit-cost of the crop. So, both of these factors can be used in combination to improve the nutrient content, uptake and economics of the black wheat.','INTRODUCTION\r\nWheat (Triticum aestivum L.) is the most important and widely grown cereal crop of the globe which is grown since pre-historic times and according to De Candole, it had originated in the Valley of Euphrates and Tigris. It is a self-pollinated crop having chromosome number (2n = 42) belongs to the family Poaceae. Wheat plays a significant role in increasing the economic growth of the nation and ensuring food as well as nutrition security. It is grown on an area of 215.9 million hectares, producing 765.8 million metric tonnes of wheat in the world (FAO, 2020). China is ranked first which is followed by India and Russia and together they contribute 41 per cent of the global production. In India, wheat is the second most important cereal crop next to rice. Among winter cereals, it contributes about 49 per cent of total food grain production. India had 31.45 million of hectares area, production 107.86 million tonnes with productivity of 3.42 tonnes hectare-1 (Pocket Book of Agricultural Statistics, 2020). Rajasthan state stands on fifth position in terms of wheat production after Uttar Pradesh, Punjab, Haryana and Madhya Pradesh. Rajasthan produced 10.57 million tonnes from 29.32 lakh hectares area with the average productivity of 3.46 tonnes hectare-1 (Government of Rajasthan, 2021).\r\nIt has lots of nutritive value in the form of carbohydrates (70 %), protein (10-12 %), fat (2.0 %), minerals (1.8 %) crude fibers (2.2 %) vitamins viz., thiamin, riboflavin, niacin and small amounts of vitamin A, but during the milling process most of the nutrients get eliminated with the bran and germ (Britannica, 2021). It is also a good source of fiber, manganese and magnesium in an unrefined state (Yadav et al., 2013). Now a day’s consumers changed his demands and they prefer a balanced nutrient profile instead of energy providing diets, which provides metabolic, physiological and functional health benefits. At present, a large population of the world is suffering from various diseases and health issues because of inadequate quantities of protein, vitamins, essential macro and micro nutrients including Fe and Zn in daily dietary (Balyan et al., 2013), to overcome such problems scientists worked on biofortification of wheat resulted, black wheat came in existence. Black wheat contains all the nutrients and minerals which are important for human dietary needs, it’s coloured pigment i.e., anthocyanins and other phytochemicals are getting popular around the world owing to the associated health benefits. Coloured wheat has proven to be helpful in preventing and fighting against various chronic diseases like cancer, cardio vascular disease (CVD), diabetes, inflammation, obesity and aging (Garg et al., 2016).\r\nUrea contributes about 82 per cent of the total fertilizer consumption in India and about 55 per cent of the total fertilizer nitrogen consumed in the world. Around 30-40 per cent of nitrogen from urea is utilized by plants and the rest gets wasted due to quick chemical transformation as a result of leaching, volatilization, denitrification and run off, thereby low use efficiency. Whereas, nano urea has high nitrogen use efficiency and also it is environment friendly. This fertilizer is popularly known as “smart fertilizer” because it reduces the emission of nitrous oxide which is primarily responsible for contaminating soil, air and water bodies and also helps in reduction of global warming. These properties make it a promising alternative over conventional urea. Micro-organism plays a vital role in fixing, solubilizing, mobilizing, recycling of macro and micro nutrients in an agricultural eco-system. Although, they are occurring naturally in soil but their population is generally insufficient to bring about the desired level of nutrient mobilization (Welbaun et al., 2004). Azotobacter and Azospirillum biofertilizer inoculant are used in non-leguminous crops like wheat, rice, maize and barley etc. They fix atmospheric nitrogen in soil and helps in saving 15-20 kg N ha-1.\r\nMATERIALS AND METHODS\r\nThis field experiment was conducted at Instructional Farm, Department of Agronomy, Rajasthan College of Agriculture, Udaipur (Rajasthan) during the rabi season of 2021-22. The region of the experimental site falls under the agro-climatic zone IVa (Sub-Humid Southern Plains and Aravalli Hills) of Rajasthan and soil of the experimental field was clay loam in texture, slightly alkaline (pH 7.75) in reaction, low in organic carbon (0.66 %), nitrogen (286.50 kg ha-1) and medium in available phosphorus (21.60 kg ha-1) but high in potassium (369.70 kg ha-1). The experiment consisted of 20 treatment combination which comprises of five levels of nitrogen sources i.e., N1 (100 % Conventional urea fertilizer), N2 (75 % Conventional urea + 25 % of Nano urea fertilizer), N3 (50 % Conventional urea + 50 % of Nano urea fertilizer), N4 (25 % Conventional urea + 75 % of Nano urea fertilizer) and N5 (100 % of Nano urea fertilizer) and four levels of biofertilizers i.e., (B1: No biofertilizer, B2: Azotobacter, B3: PSB and B4: Azotobacter + PSB) which were laid out in a factorial randomized block design (FRBD) and replicated thrice. Black wheat crop was sown on 28th November, 2021, for optimizing plant stands 100 kg seed rate was used and seed was sown at 4-5 cm depth with 20 cm row spacing. After pre-sowing irrigation, total 5 irrigations were applied during the whole growing period. Recommended dose of phosphorous and potassium i.e., 60 and 40 kg ha-1 were applied through SSP and MOP. But the total recommended dose of nitrogen i.e., 120 kg ha-1 was provided through the combination of two sources i.e., nano urea and conventional urea according to the treatment. Nano urea was applied in the form of spray solution. As one bottle of nano urea (500 ml) is equal to one bag of conventional urea so according to the total urea dose required in wheat crop in one hectare, a total of 2604 ml nano urea is required ha-1. First spray of nano urea was given at tillering stage and second at jointing stage. The microbiological fertilizers i.e., Azotobacter and PSB were used in the form of liquid equally for seed treatment of black wheat. A recommended dose of liquid biofertilizers were used for seed inoculation of black wheat. \r\nNutrient content and uptake estimation. For estimation of N, P, K, Fe, Zn and anthocyanin contents, the plant samples were collected at the time of harvest and oven dried at 70ºC for 72 hours to obtain constant weight. Fully dried samples were grinded to fine powder and nutrient content in grain and straw were estimated as per the following method.\r\n \r\n\r\nTotal N, P, K, Fe and Zn uptake in grain and straw samples were calculated by multiplying per cent nutrient content with their respective dry matter accumulation as per the formula given below:\r\nNutrient uptake ((kg ha-1) = \r\n \r\nNet return and B-C ratio. Gross return was calculated by multiplying the total grain and straw yield with prevalent market prices of the items and then presented on per hectare basis as per treatments. Net return was computed by deducting the total cost of cultivation from the gross return as per treatments.\r\nNet return (` ha-1) = Gross return (` ha-1) – Cost of cultivation (` ha-1).\r\n \r\nTreatment-wise benefit-cost ratio was calculated to analyze and determine the economic viability of the treatments by using the formula:\r\n \r\nRESULTS AND DISCUSSION\r\nA. Effect of Nitrogen Sources\r\nNutrient content and uptake. Application of nano urea along with conventional urea leads to elevated amount of nitrogen, phosphorous, potassium, iron and zinc content in gain and straw as well as their uptake by grain, straw and total under the treatment N3 (50 % Conventional urea + 50 % of Nano urea fertilizer) as compared to other treatments of nitrogen sources (Table 1). Data elucidated in Table 1 clearly demonstrates that there was significant improvement in the nitrogen (2.02 and 0.48 %), phosphorous (0.47 and 0.17 %), potassium (0.51 and 2.31 %), iron (66.11 and 128.41 ppm) and zinc (58.74 and 54.22 ppm) content in gain and straw, respectively under the treatment N3 (50 % Conventional urea + 50 % of Nano urea fertilizer) was recorded and this was found statistically analogous to effect of treatment N2(75 % Conventional urea + 25 % of Nano urea fertilizer) however, found significantly superior over rest all of the treatments of nitrogen sources. But there wasn’t any significant variation noticed in anthocyanin content of grain among various treatments of nitrogen sources. Furthermore, results showed that amount of N, P, K, Fe and Zn contentin grain under the treatment N3 (50 % Conventional urea + 50 % of Nano urea fertilizer) increased with the tune of 4.45, 2.12, 5.88, 14.83 and 17.79 per cent over the treatment N1 (100 % Conventional urea fertilizer).\r\nSimilarly, the uptake of N, P, K, Fe and Zn by grain, straw and total also showed the similar kind of trend as shown by nutrient content (Table 2). There was appreciably utmost amount of nutrient uptake of these nutrients i.e., N, P, K, Fe and Zn by grain (85.08, 19.96, 21.36, 0.28 and 0.25 kg ha-1), straw (40.72, 14.07, 195.39, 1.09 and 0.46 kg ha-1) and total (125.80, 34.03, 216.75, 1.36 and 0.71 kg ha-1) noticed under the application N3 (50 % Conventional urea + 50 % of Nano urea fertilizer). Uptake of N, P, K and Fe by straw under N3 was found statistically equivalent to the uptake under N2 (75 % Conventional urea + 25 % Nano urea fertilizer) but superior over rest of all. Again, the total uptake of potassium under N3 was found at par with the treatment N2 (75 % Conventional urea + 25 % of Nano urea fertilizer) but superior over others. Total nutrient uptake of N, P, K, Fe and Zn increased by means of 11.69, 10.40, 10.62, 19.11 and 23.94 per cent over the treatment N1 (100 % Conventional urea fertilizer).\r\nNutrient content and uptake were significantly improved under the treatment N3 (50 % Conventional urea + 50 % of Nano urea fertilizer). Nano fertilizers have large surface area and particle size smaller than the pore size of plant leaves, allowing for greater penetration into plant tissues from the applied surface and improved absorption and nutrient use efficiency. The pore diameter of plant cell wall ranging from 5 to 50 nm. Hence, only nanoparticles or nanoparticle aggregates with diameter less than the pore diameter of the plant cell wall could easily pass through and reach the plasma membrane. Nanoparticles with having the size less than 5 nm go through the cuticular pathway, whereas those with larger sizes travel through the stomatal pathway before arriving to the conducting system, where they aid in the rapid and simple absorption of nutrients by leaves (Dimkpa et al., 2015; Qureshi et al., 2018). Moreover, coating of nano and sub nano-composites are capable of regulating the release of nutrients from the fertilizer capsule and nano particles have both positive and negative charged binding site that adsorbed available nitrogen in soil and curtail different type of losses resulted in increased uptake of nitrogen by crop Nanoparticles triggered metabolic activity in plants which results in increased exudation and acidity. Subsequently, release of PO4 may occur as a result of a ligand exchange reaction triggered by plant root exudation, potentially disrupting the adsorption-desorption equilibrium and releasing P into the soil solution where it is easily available for uptake. Application of nano particles improves carbon balance in crops, accelerates plant growth, leads to increase in the efficiency of micro and macronutrients of plants and reducing the use of chemical fertilizers per unit area which causes environmental problems. These results are in correlation with results of Junrungrean et al. (2002); Aljabri (2010); Junejo et al. (2012); Soliman et al. (2016); Shrivastava et al. (2017); Togas et al. (2017); Mahil and Kumar (2019); Hasan and Saad (2020).\r\nEconomics. A careful evaluation of the information decoded from Table 3 uncovers that the maximum net return (` 109637) and benefit-cost ratio (2.37) was obtained under the application of N3 (50 % Conventional urea + 50 % of Nano urea fertilizer) which was statistically analogous to N2 (75 % Conventional urea + 25 % of Nano urea fertilizer) with net return of ` 102044 and benefit-cost ratio of 2.20 howbeit, net return and benefit-cost ratio under N3 were found significant over the other treatments and net return was greater than by 10.54, 15.79 and 22.90 per cent over N1 (100 % Conventional urea fertilizer), N4 (25 % Conventional urea + 75 % of Nano urea fertilizer) and N5 (100 % of Nano urea fertilizer), respectively. Greater net return was fetched as a consequence of lower cultivation costs due to reduced urea application and effective use of foliar nano fertilizers, which resulted in higher grain and straw yield and as a result, higher net return. These findings were in accordance with Mehta and Bharat (2019); Manikandan et al. (2016); Kumar et al. (2020).\r\nB. Effect of Biofertilizers\r\nNutrient content and uptake. In the present study data explicated that nitrogen, phosphorus, potassium, iron and zinc content and uptake by grain and straw of wheat appreciably improved by inoculation of seed with different biofertilizers. The highest same nutrient was reported with cumulative inoculation of seed with Azotobacter + PSB over control and single inoculation. The N, P, K, Fe and Zn content increased by 2.55, 6.38, 2.04, 7.73 and 8.95 per cent in grain and 4.25, 2.98, 2.66, 8.71 and 9.81 per cent in straw, respectively with combine inoculation of seed with Azotobacter + PSB over control i.e., B1 (No biofertilizer), respectively. Whereas, the uptake was found to increase more significantly with combine inoculation of Azotobacter + PSB. Considerably the loftiest amount of nutrient uptake of N, P, K, Fe and Zn by grain (79.46, 19.15, 19.87, 0.24 and 0.21 kg ha-1), straw (39.68, 13.54, 189.13, 0.98 and 0.39 kg ha-1) and total (119.14, 32.69, 209.00, 1.22 and 0.60 kg ha-1) was recorded when seed of the black wheat was inoculated with the conglomerated mixture of Azotobacter + PSB and statistically it was found superior over rest all of the biofertilizers treatment. But only in case of P and K uptake by straw under B2 (Azotobacter) was found at par with uptake under B4 (Azotobacter + PSB).\r\nThrough biological processes, biofertilizers are capable of transforming essential nutritional components in the soil from non-usable to usable form for crop plants. Azotobacter inoculated seeds facilitated the efficient uptake of N, P, and micronutrients like Fe and Zn in wheat. Mineralization of organic nitrogen and phosphorus enhances nitrogen and phosphorus availability in soil, resulting in increased nutrient absorption by plants via inoculation of nitrogen and phosphorus fixing bacteria. Azotobacter promoted the activity of nitrogenase and nitrate reductase enzymes in soil for higher nitrogen fixation. The nutrient content and uptake by plants appreciably improved when seeds were inoculated with Azotobacter and PSB prior to sowing because Azotobacter can be attributed to enhanced specific activities of iso citric and malic dehydrogenase enzyme, the source of electrons during nitrogen fixation, resulting in a more favourable nutritional environment (Kurtz and Larue, 1975) and PSB solubilize both natural and added phosphorus (Singh et al., 2012). Hameeda et al. (2008) reported that PSB solubilizes insoluble inorganic phosphate compounds in soil, such as tricalcium phosphate and dicalcium phosphate, by the excretion of various organic acids from root exudates. Potassium absorption from soil also rises when N and P availability increased. Thus, synergistic effect of biofertilizers enhanced the content and uptake of nitrogen, phosphorus and potassium in grain and straw. These results are in accordance with the Abbasi and Yousra (2012); Singh et al. (2018); Moradgholi et al. (2021); Radwan et al. (2021).\r\nEconomics. The results revealed that the utmost net return i.e. `105367 was recorded under seed treatment with B4 (Azotobacter + PSB) which was statistically significant over the all-remaining treatments and it was higher with the tune of 13.23, 7.93 and 9.37 per cent over B1 (No biofertilzer), B2 (Azotobacter) and B3 (PSB), respectively. Similarly, when seeds were inoculated with amalgamated mixture of Azotobacter and PSB (B4) then highest B-C ratio (2.27) was fetched and this was statistically superior over all other treatments of biofertilizer.\r\nSo, the results showed that bio-fertilizers inoculation significantly affected the net return and benefit-cost ratio. The highest amount of net return and benefit- cost ratio was fetched with dual inoculation of Azotobacter + PSB (Table 3). The use of effective strains of bio-fertilizers is an environmentally benign, low-cost agricultural input that plays an essential role in enhancing nutrient availability to crops while also lowering production costs (Kumar, 2013). These non-traditional fertilizer sources not only save money, but they also boost soil and crop output dramatically. These observations complement the findings of Ram and Mir (2006); Davari et al. (2012).\r\n','Kannoj, J. Choudhary, Devendera Jain, Manish Tomar, Ritesh Patidar and Ruchika Choudhary (2022). Effect of Nano Urea vs Conventional Urea on the Nutrient Content, Uptake and Economics of Black Wheat (Triticum aestivum L.) along with Biofertilizers. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 14(2a): 499-504.'),(5189,'134','Effect of Water Soluble Fertilizer, Micronutrients, Humic Acid and Seaweed extract on Growth and Yield of Rice','J. Sivakamipriya*, S. Suresh, K. Manikandan and P.T. Ramesh','81 Effect of Water Soluble Fertilizer, Micronutrients, Humic Acid and Seaweed extract on Growth and Yield of Rice J. Sivakamipriya.pdf','',1,'A field experiment was undertaken at Agricultural College and Research Institute, Killikulam during late pishanam season (Dec 2021 - Apr 2022) to determine the effect of water soluble fertilizer, micronutrients, humic acid and seaweed extract (Sargassum wightii) on growth and yield of rice (var.ASD 16). The experiment was laid out in a randomized block design with 10 treatment combinations and 3 replications. The results revealed that the soil application of STCR-NPK with humic acid @ 10kg/ha along with foliar spray of 1% liquid micronutrients, 1% WSF (19:19:19), and seaweed extract @2.5 ml/l (T10) thrice at 15, 30, 50 DAT recorded significantly highest growth attributes such as plant height (108), number of tillers per m2 (376), number of productive tillers per m2 (345), grain yield (6123 kg ha-1) and straw yield (7242 kg ha-1) of rice followed by STCR- NPK with foliar application of 1% liquid micronutrients, 1% WSF, (19:19:19), 1% humic acid and seaweed extract @ 2.5 ml/l thrice with grain yield of 6098 kg ha-1 and straw yield of 7125 kg ha-1. The grain yield was 9.84% higher than the STCR- NPK treatment. The highest uptake of N (85.2 kg ha-1), P (10.83 kg ha-1), K (108.2 kg ha-1), Cu (8.05 g ha-1), Mn (32.1 g ha-1), Fe (77.3 g ha-1), Zn (48.3 g ha-1) and highest agronomic efficiency of N, P, K (18.9, 53.2, 133) respectively were recorded in the same treatment. However the highest net return (Rs. 71401 ha-1) and B:C ratio (2.21) was recorded by the latter treatment viz. soil application of STCR- NPK with foliar spray of 1% liquid micronutrients, 1% WSF (19:19:19), 1% and humic acid and seaweed extract @ 2.5 ml/l thrice and could be recommended to get higher grain yield and economic returns of rice cultivation in Tamiraparani command area.','Water soluble fertilizer (19:19:19), Micronutrients, Humic acid, Seaweed extract (Sargassum wightii)','The study found that the application of STCR-NPK along with foliar sprays of 1% liquid micronutrients, 1% WSF, 1% humic acid, and 2% SWE @ 2.5 ml/l (T8) at all crucial stages had boosted rice\'s growth, yield parameters and yield (9.59% over STCR-NPK control). This method of fertilizer management for farmer fields was determined to be economically viable.','INTRODUCTION\r\nRice is the most significant and dominant cereal food crop in India with one-fourth of the total area under cultivation. It can be grown successfully in a hot, humid area as a main food crop. India is among the top ten producers of rice. In India, 122 million metric tonnes of rice were produced, (Anonymous 2021), with more than 11.0 percent of the global production share. India is the second-largest producer of rice after China. To meet the global requirement of rice, efficient nutrient management should be practiced. \r\nThe water-soluble fertilizers (19:19:19) (WSF) supply to crops with the ideal rates of nutrients throughout the growth cycle in the most efficient way possible without endangering soil and water resources. They do this by being highly soluble, having a low salt index, and having a high concentration of primary nutrients. Foliar nutrition of WSF provides effective nutrition for correcting deficiencies, especially in short-duration crops, and aids in the resolution of problems including nutrient immobilisation, fixation, and leaching (Bharaani et al., 2020). Nutritional deficits in plants can be quickly recovered by foliar nutrition. It encourages a number of processes that influence crop output potential, including nitrogen metabolism, protein consumption, chlorophyll formation, carbonic-anhydrase activity, stress tolerance, and oxidative damage prevention (Kulhare et al., 2017).\r\nHumic acid augments the physical, chemical and biological properties of the soil and influences plant growth by inducing the growth of roots. Initiation of root enhancement and increased root growth may be observed by the application of humic acids and fulvic acids to the soil (Pettit, 2004). Nutrient elements are bound to humic acid molecules in a form that can be readily utilized by various living organisms. As a result humic acids (HAs) function as important ion exchange and metal complexing (chelating) systems thus improve the nutrient uptake by plants. The study is focused on the management of nutrient application by progressively adding STCR- NPK, humic acid and sea-weed granules as soil application and water soluble fertilizer, liquid micronutrient, humic acid and sea-weed extract as foliar spray.\r\nMATERIALS AND METHODS\r\nThe field experiment was conducted at B block of central farm, Agricultural College and Research Institute, Killikulam using the test crop of paddy (ASD 16) during late Pishanam season (Dec – April, 2022). The experimental field was located at 8º42´06.8´´N 77º51´27.1´´E. The soil of the experimental site belonged to Manakkarai series and according to USDA soil taxanomy it was classified as sandy clay loam, fine non-arid kaolinitic isomegathermic family of Typic Haplustalf. Soil samples were collected from experimental site and initial physical and chemical characters were analysed. The soil pH was 7.04 with normal EC (0.23 dS m-1). The available NPK was low (238 kg ha-1), medium (19 kg ha-1) and high (492 kg ha-1) respectively. The experiment was laid out in a randomized block design with 10 treatment combinations and 3 replications. The treatment details were T1- Absolute control; T2- STCR- NPK; T3- STCR- NPK + Humic acid @10 kg ha-1; T4- STCR- NPK + Sea weed granules @ 15 kg ha-1; T5-STCR- NPK + Humic acid @ 10 kg ha-1 + Sea weed granules @ 15 kg ha-1; T6 - STCR- NPK + foliar spray of 1% liquid micronutrients + 1% WSF + 1% Humic acid; T7- STCR- NPK + foliar spray of 1% liquid micronutrients +1%WSF + SWE @ 2.5ml/l; T8- STCR-NPK + foliar spray of 1% liquid micronutrients + 1%WSF + 1%Humic acid + SWE @ 2.5ml/l; T9- STCR- NPK + Sea weed granules @ 15 kg ha-1 + foliar spray of 1% liquid Micronutrients + 1% WSF + 1% Humic acid; and T10- STCR- NPK + Humic acid @ 10 kg ha-1 + foliar spray of 1% liquid micronutrients +1% WSF + SWE @ 2.5ml/l;\r\nThe STCR-NPK suggested dose of NPK (175:62.5:25) was administered according to schedule to the experimental plots. Urea, SSP, and MOP were the respective sources of N, P, and K. SSP was used as the basal application, whereas urea and MOP were applied in four equal splits at Basal, Active Tillering (AT), Panicle Initiation (PI), and Heading. Humic acid and seaweed extract (Sargassum wightii) were added to the soil during critical rice growth stages viz. Basal, AT, PI, Heading stages at 15, 30, and 50 DAT respectively for each treatment. The foliar applications of water-soluble fertilizer, liquid micronutrient, humic acid, and seaweed extract were made at all the three critical growth stages. The plant height, SPAD value, the number of productive tillers m-2, 1000 grain weight, grain and straw yield were recorded. The outcomes of the study such as soil characteristics, biometric observations and the yield data were statistically examined (Snedecor and Cochran 1967). The curves and diagrams were produced using Microsoft Office Word and Excel. The gathered data were subjected to an analysis of variances using the AGRES software to determine the statistical significance of the effect of treatments.\r\nRESULT AND DISCUSSION\r\nA. Growth Parameters\r\nAnalyzing the data in Table 1 revealed that the application of humic acid, seaweed extract and other fertilizers in soil and as foliar spray significantly influenced the plant height, SPAD value, number of tillers m-2 over STCR-NPK control. The treatment STCR-NPK with soil application of humic acid @10 kg ha-1 and foliar spray of 1% liquid micronutrients, 1% WSF and SWE @ 2.5ml/l (T10) showed highest plant height (40.3, 65.3, 108.3 cm), number of tillers m-2 (243, 313, 376), SPAD value (42.1, 42.9, 45.2) at three critical stages of active tillering (15 DAT), PI (30 DAT) and Heading (50 DAT) stages respectively. It was on par with treatment STCR-NPK, foliar spray of 1% liquid micronutrients, 1%WSF, 1% Humic acid and SWE @ 2.5ml/l (T8).\r\nThe foliar micronutrient spraying greatly boosted plant height, which could be attributed to a sufficient supply of nutrients to sink and thereby accelerated plant metabolism of auxin and enzymatic activity (Sudha and Stalin 2015). It is due to the enhanced photosynthetic rate, induced root development, cell division, and cell enlargement, which led to an increase in plant height and the number of tillers hill-1. These findings concur with Rasool et al., (2015) conclusion .The application of humic acid along with micronutrient mixture recorded the significantly higher plant height, no.of tillers m-2 of transplanted rice was also reported by Vinod Kumar et al., (2019). The foliar application throughout the critical growth stages enhanced the supply of essential nutrients impacting the production of chlorophyll pigments which appeared to increase the chlorophyll content of rice, accelerated the light absorption and speed up the photosynthetic processes. In a related study, Zayed and his associates found that absorption of sufficient nutrients considerably improved the chlorophyll content (SPAD index) as compared to control (Zayed et al., 2011). \r\nB. Yield Parameters\r\nA significant increase in straw and grain yield was observed with the application of fertilizers, humic acid and sea weed extract (table 2). The highest number of productive tillers m-2 (345), 1000 grain weight (24.8 g), straw (7242 kg ha-1) and grain (6123 kg ha-1) yields were recorded in the treatment by the application of STCR-NPK and humic acid @10 kg ha-1 in soil along with foliar spray of 1% liquid micronutrients, 1% WSF and SWE @ 2.5ml/l (T10). This was followed by (T8). The grain yield of rice in treatment STCR-NPK and humic acid @10 kg ha-1 + foliar spray of 1% liquid micronutrient + 1%WSF + SWE @ 2.5ml/l (T10) was 9.84% higher than the STCR-NPK control (T2).\r\nBharaani Sri et al. (2020) reported that foliar spray of 1% TNAU Liquid Micronutrient + 2% TNAU water-soluble fertilizers (19:19:19) along with a recommended dose of fertilizers at active tillering, panicle initiation and 50% flowering showed the maximum growth, LAI, SPAD value and straw and grain yield. According to Rathore et al. (2009), foliar spray of 15 percent seaweed extract treatment resulted in the highest yield of soybean. Addagarla et al., (2022), stated that bio-stimulants such as humic acid and seaweed extract substantially improve the quality and yield parameters in rice by enhanced enzyme activity, photosynthetic rate. The study conducted by Rahmatullah Khan et al. (2006) showed that direct application of micronutrient significantly influenced the grain yield of wheat and rice crop. The number of spikes m-2, number of spikes per plant, spike length, plant height and 1000 grain weight of wheat and rice were significantly increased over control. Saha et al., (2013) showed that the positive trend of humic acid and poultry manure in rice cultivar BRRI dhan 39. The highest grain yield was obtained by the application of humic acid along with poultry manure.\r\nOn the basis of above findings, it could be concluded that for obtaining higher grain yield, number of productive tillers m-2, other growth and yield attributes, the treatment STCR-NPK with soil application of humic acid @10 kg ha-1 and foliar spray of 1% liquid micronutrients, 1% WSF and SWE @ 2.5ml/l (T10) was found to be the best.\r\nT1- Absolute control; T2- STCR-NPK; T3- STCR-NPK + Humic acid @10 kg ha-1; T4- STCR-NPK + Sea weed granules @ 15 kg ha-1; T5-STCR-NPK + Humic acid @ 10 kg ha-1+ Sea weed granules @ 15 kg ha-1; T6 - STCR-NPK + foliar spray of 1% liquid micronutrients +1% WSF + 1% Humic acid; T7- STCR-NPK + foliar spray of 1% liquid micronutrients +1%WSF + SWE @ 2.5ml/l; T8- STCR-NPK + foliar spray of 1% liquid micronutrients +1%WSF + 1%Humic acid +SWE @ 2.5ml/l; T9- STCR-NPK+ Sea weed granules @ 15 kg ha-1 + foliar spray of 1% liquid Micronutrients +1%WSF+ 1% Humic acid; T10- STCR-NPK +Humic acid @10 kg ha-1 + foliar spray of 1% liquid micronutrients + 1% WSF + SWE @2.5ml/l.\r\n. Nutrient uptake\r\nThe increased uptake of NPK and micronutrients with the application of water soluble fertilizers, micronutrients, humic acid and seaweed extract at harvest stage were depicted in Table 3 and Fig 1. Significant increase in NPK uptake (85.2, 10.83, 108.2 kg ha-1) and micronutrients uptake viz., Fe, Mn, Cu and Zn (77.3, 32.1, 8.05, 48.3 g ha-1) were observed on STCR-NPK with soil application of humic acid @10 kg ha-1 and foliar spray of 1% liquid micronutrients, 1% WSF and SWE @2.5ml/l (T10). This was followed by T8.\r\nSeaweed extract treatments were found to improve uptake of N, P, K, and S (Rathore et al., 2009). Significant amount of N, P and K uptake were recorded with the application of humic acid as foliar spray and soil application (Paramasivan, 2015). Vahap Katkat et al., (2009) investigated the effects of humic material applications in the soil and on the uptake of dry matter yield and nutrient absorption in wheat grown in calcareous soils. The application of 1 g kg-1 humic acid treatment resulted in the maximum dry weight and nutrient absorption. The uptake of Mg, Fe, and Mn was statistically significant after foliar application of humic acid. According to Mahmut Yıldıztekin et al. (2018) brown sea weed extract and humic acid significantly enhanced the enzyme activity viz., peroxidase (POD), catalase (CAT) superoxide dismutase (SOD), in the plant thereby increased macro and micronutrients uptake.\r\nAgronomic efficiency of NPK. The agronomic efficiency of NPK ranged from 13.3-18.9, 37.1-53.2, 92.8-132.9 respectively (Table 4). The higher agronomic efficiency of NPK (18.9, 53.2, 132.9) were recorded in STCR-NPK, soil application of humic acid@10 kg ha-1 along with foliar spray of 1% liquid micronutrients, 1% WSF and SWE @ 2.5ml/l T(10). This was on par with STCR-NPK + 1% liquid micronutrient + 1% WSF + 1% Humic acid + SWE @ 2.5ml/l (18.3, 51.3, 128.3) respectively (T8).\r\nEconomics. Utilizing the rice yield and the market price in effect at the time of harvest, the economics reflecting the gross return in rupees per hectare was calculated. The maximum net return was recorded with STCR-NPK + 1% liquid micronutrient + 1% WSF + 1% humic acid + SWE @ 2.5ml/l (T8), as shown in Table 5. (Rs.71401). The afore mentioned treatment, recorded the highest B:C ratio (2.21).\r\n','J. Sivakamipriya, S. Suresh, K. Manikandan and P.T. Ramesh (2022). Effect of Water Soluble Fertilizer, Micronutrients, Humic Acid and Seaweed extract on Growth and Yield of Rice. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 14(2a): 493-498.'),(5190,'134','Effect of Nano Urea vs Conventional Urea on the Nutrient Content, Uptake and Economics of Black Wheat (Triticum aestivum L.) along with Biofertilizers','Kannoj, J. Choudhary*, Devendera Jain, Manish Tomar, Ritesh Patidar and Ruchika Choudhary','82 Effect of Nano Urea vs Conventional Urea on the Nutrient Content, Uptake and Economics of Black Wheat _Triticum aestivum L._ along with Biofertilizers Dr. J. Choudhary.pdf','',1,'To study the effect of nitrogen sources and biofertilizers on the nutrient content, uptake and economics of black wheat, a field research experiment in factorial randomized block design was performed at Instructional Farm, Department of Agronomy, Rajasthan College of Agriculture, Udaipur (Rajasthan). The experiment comprised of five levels of nitrogen sources i.e., N1 (100 % Conventional urea fertilizer), N2 (75 % Conventional urea + 25 % of Nano urea fertilizer), N3 (50 % Conventional urea + 50 % of Nano urea fertilizer), N4 (25 % Conventional urea + 75 % of Nano urea fertilizer) and N5 (100 % of Nano urea fertilizer) and four levels of biofertilizers i.e., (B1: No biofertilizer, B2: Azotobacter, B3: PSB and B4: Azotobacter + PSB) which were replicated thrice. The maximum N, P, K, Fe and Zn content and uptake in grain and straw were recorded under N3 (50 % Conventional urea + 50 % of Nano urea fertilizer) as compared to the remaining treatments. The utmost net return (109637 ` ha-1) and benefit-cost ratio (2.37) were also obtained under N3 (50 % Conventional urea + 50 % of Nano urea fertilizer). Inoculation of seed with conglomerated mixture of Azotobacter + PSB (B4) appreciably increases the N, P, K, Fe and Zn content and uptake in grain and straw. It also leads to significant enhancement in net return (105367 ` ha-1) and benefit-cost ratio (2.27) as compared to all other treatments of biofertilizer. But under the diverse treatment combination of both these factors, there was no any significant variation reported for anthocyanin content in black wheat grain. So nanofertilizer application proved more practical and efficient in improving nutrient content, uptake and economics of black wheat as compared to conventional fertilizer.','Nano urea, Black wheat, Biofertilizer, Azotobacter, PSB','Based on the above cited results of the experiment it could be concluded that nano urea spray in combination with application of conventional urea fertilizer i.e., treatment N3 (50 % Conventional urea + 50 % of Nano urea fertilizer) significantly increased the nutrient content and uptake of the black wheat crop and also improve the economic return. Similarly, seed inoculation of black wheat with conglomerated mixture of Azotobacter and PSB (B4) considerably improved the nutrient content, uptake, net return and benefit-cost of the crop. So, both of these factors can be used in combination to improve the nutrient content, uptake and economics of the black wheat.','INTRODUCTION\r\nWheat (Triticum aestivum L.) is the most important and widely grown cereal crop of the globe which is grown since pre-historic times and according to De Candole, it had originated in the Valley of Euphrates and Tigris. It is a self-pollinated crop having chromosome number (2n = 42) belongs to the family Poaceae. Wheat plays a significant role in increasing the economic growth of the nation and ensuring food as well as nutrition security. It is grown on an area of 215.9 million hectares, producing 765.8 million metric tonnes of wheat in the world (FAO, 2020). China is ranked first which is followed by India and Russia and together they contribute 41 per cent of the global production. In India, wheat is the second most important cereal crop next to rice. Among winter cereals, it contributes about 49 per cent of total food grain production. India had 31.45 million of hectares area, production 107.86 million tonnes with productivity of 3.42 tonnes hectare-1 (Pocket Book of Agricultural Statistics, 2020). Rajasthan state stands on fifth position in terms of wheat production after Uttar Pradesh, Punjab, Haryana and Madhya Pradesh. Rajasthan produced 10.57 million tonnes from 29.32 lakh hectares area with the average productivity of 3.46 tonnes hectare-1 (Government of Rajasthan, 2021).\r\nIt has lots of nutritive value in the form of carbohydrates (70 %), protein (10-12 %), fat (2.0 %), minerals (1.8 %) crude fibers (2.2 %) vitamins viz., thiamin, riboflavin, niacin and small amounts of vitamin A, but during the milling process most of the nutrients get eliminated with the bran and germ (Britannica, 2021). It is also a good source of fiber, manganese and magnesium in an unrefined state (Yadav et al., 2013). Now a day’s consumers changed his demands and they prefer a balanced nutrient profile instead of energy providing diets, which provides metabolic, physiological and functional health benefits. At present, a large population of the world is suffering from various diseases and health issues because of inadequate quantities of protein, vitamins, essential macro and micro nutrients including Fe and Zn in daily dietary (Balyan et al., 2013), to overcome such problems scientists worked on biofortification of wheat resulted, black wheat came in existence. Black wheat contains all the nutrients and minerals which are important for human dietary needs, it’s coloured pigment i.e., anthocyanins and other phytochemicals are getting popular around the world owing to the associated health benefits. Coloured wheat has proven to be helpful in preventing and fighting against various chronic diseases like cancer, cardio vascular disease (CVD), diabetes, inflammation, obesity and aging (Garg et al., 2016).\r\nUrea contributes about 82 per cent of the total fertilizer consumption in India and about 55 per cent of the total fertilizer nitrogen consumed in the world. Around 30-40 per cent of nitrogen from urea is utilized by plants and the rest gets wasted due to quick chemical transformation as a result of leaching, volatilization, denitrification and run off, thereby low use efficiency. Whereas, nano urea has high nitrogen use efficiency and also it is environment friendly. This fertilizer is popularly known as “smart fertilizer” because it reduces the emission of nitrous oxide which is primarily responsible for contaminating soil, air and water bodies and also helps in reduction of global warming. These properties make it a promising alternative over conventional urea. Micro-organism plays a vital role in fixing, solubilizing, mobilizing, recycling of macro and micro nutrients in an agricultural eco-system. Although, they are occurring naturally in soil but their population is generally insufficient to bring about the desired level of nutrient mobilization (Welbaun et al., 2004). Azotobacter and Azospirillum biofertilizer inoculant are used in non-leguminous crops like wheat, rice, maize and barley etc. They fix atmospheric nitrogen in soil and helps in saving 15-20 kg N ha-1.\r\nMATERIALS AND METHODS\r\nThis field experiment was conducted at Instructional Farm, Department of Agronomy, Rajasthan College of Agriculture, Udaipur (Rajasthan) during the rabi season of 2021-22. The region of the experimental site falls under the agro-climatic zone IVa (Sub-Humid Southern Plains and Aravalli Hills) of Rajasthan and soil of the experimental field was clay loam in texture, slightly alkaline (pH 7.75) in reaction, low in organic carbon (0.66 %), nitrogen (286.50 kg ha-1) and medium in available phosphorus (21.60 kg ha-1) but high in potassium (369.70 kg ha-1). The experiment consisted of 20 treatment combination which comprises of five levels of nitrogen sources i.e., N1 (100 % Conventional urea fertilizer), N2 (75 % Conventional urea + 25 % of Nano urea fertilizer), N3 (50 % Conventional urea + 50 % of Nano urea fertilizer), N4 (25 % Conventional urea + 75 % of Nano urea fertilizer) and N5 (100 % of Nano urea fertilizer) and four levels of biofertilizers i.e., (B1: No biofertilizer, B2: Azotobacter, B3: PSB and B4: Azotobacter + PSB) which were laid out in a factorial randomized block design (FRBD) and replicated thrice. Black wheat crop was sown on 28th November, 2021, for optimizing plant stands 100 kg seed rate was used and seed was sown at 4-5 cm depth with 20 cm row spacing. After pre-sowing irrigation, total 5 irrigations were applied during the whole growing period. Recommended dose of phosphorous and potassium i.e., 60 and 40 kg ha-1 were applied through SSP and MOP. But the total recommended dose of nitrogen i.e., 120 kg ha-1 was provided through the combination of two sources i.e., nano urea and conventional urea according to the treatment. Nano urea was applied in the form of spray solution. As one bottle of nano urea (500 ml) is equal to one bag of conventional urea so according to the total urea dose required in wheat crop in one hectare, a total of 2604 ml nano urea is required ha-1. First spray of nano urea was given at tillering stage and second at jointing stage. The microbiological fertilizers i.e., Azotobacter and PSB were used in the form of liquid equally for seed treatment of black wheat. A recommended dose of liquid biofertilizers were used for seed inoculation of black wheat. \r\nNutrient content and uptake estimation. For estimation of N, P, K, Fe, Zn and anthocyanin contents, the plant samples were collected at the time of harvest and oven dried at 70ºC for 72 hours to obtain constant weight. Fully dried samples were grinded to fine powder and nutrient content in grain and straw were estimated as per the following method.\r\nTotal N, P, K, Fe and Zn uptake in grain and straw samples were calculated by multiplying per cent nutrient content with their respective dry matter accumulation as per the formula given below:\r\nNutrient uptake ((kg ha-1) = \r\n \r\nNet return and B-C ratio. Gross return was calculated by multiplying the total grain and straw yield with prevalent market prices of the items and then presented on per hectare basis as per treatments. Net return was computed by deducting the total cost of cultivation from the gross return as per treatments.\r\nNet return (` ha-1) = Gross return (` ha-1) – Cost of cultivation (` ha-1).\r\n \r\nTreatment-wise benefit-cost ratio was calculated to analyze and determine the economic viability of the treatments by using the formula:\r\n \r\nRESULTS AND DISCUSSION\r\nA. Effect of Nitrogen Sources\r\nNutrient content and uptake. Application of nano urea along with conventional urea leads to elevated amount of nitrogen, phosphorous, potassium, iron and zinc content in gain and straw as well as their uptake by grain, straw and total under the treatment N3 (50 % Conventional urea + 50 % of Nano urea fertilizer) as compared to other treatments of nitrogen sources (Table 1). Data elucidated in Table 1 clearly demonstrates that there was significant improvement in the nitrogen (2.02 and 0.48 %), phosphorous (0.47 and 0.17 %), potassium (0.51 and 2.31 %), iron (66.11 and 128.41 ppm) and zinc (58.74 and 54.22 ppm) content in gain and straw, respectively under the treatment N3 (50 % Conventional urea + 50 % of Nano urea fertilizer) was recorded and this was found statistically analogous to effect of treatment N2(75 % Conventional urea + 25 % of Nano urea fertilizer) however, found significantly superior over rest all of the treatments of nitrogen sources. But there wasn’t any significant variation noticed in anthocyanin content of grain among various treatments of nitrogen sources. Furthermore, results showed that amount of N, P, K, Fe and Zn contentin grain under the treatment N3 (50 % Conventional urea + 50 % of Nano urea fertilizer) increased with the tune of 4.45, 2.12, 5.88, 14.83 and 17.79 per cent over the treatment N1 (100 % Conventional urea fertilizer).\r\nSimilarly, the uptake of N, P, K, Fe and Zn by grain, straw and total also showed the similar kind of trend as shown by nutrient content (Table 2). There was appreciably utmost amount of nutrient uptake of these nutrients i.e., N, P, K, Fe and Zn by grain (85.08, 19.96, 21.36, 0.28 and 0.25 kg ha-1), straw (40.72, 14.07, 195.39, 1.09 and 0.46 kg ha-1) and total (125.80, 34.03, 216.75, 1.36 and 0.71 kg ha-1) noticed under the application N3 (50 % Conventional urea + 50 % of Nano urea fertilizer). Uptake of N, P, K and Fe by straw under N3 was found statistically equivalent to the uptake under N2 (75 % Conventional urea + 25 % Nano urea fertilizer) but superior over rest of all. Again, the total uptake of potassium under N3 was found at par with the treatment N2 (75 % Conventional urea + 25 % of Nano urea fertilizer) but superior over others. Total nutrient uptake of N, P, K, Fe and Zn increased by means of 11.69, 10.40, 10.62, 19.11 and 23.94 per cent over the treatment N1 (100 % Conventional urea fertilizer).\r\nNutrient content and uptake were significantly improved under the treatment N3 (50 % Conventional urea + 50 % of Nano urea fertilizer). Nano fertilizers have large surface area and particle size smaller than the pore size of plant leaves, allowing for greater penetration into plant tissues from the applied surface and improved absorption and nutrient use efficiency. The pore diameter of plant cell wall ranging from 5 to 50 nm. Hence, only nanoparticles or nanoparticle aggregates with diameter less than the pore diameter of the plant cell wall could easily pass through and reach the plasma membrane. Nanoparticles with having the size less than 5 nm go through the cuticular pathway, whereas those with larger sizes travel through the stomatal pathway before arriving to the conducting system, where they aid in the rapid and simple absorption of nutrients by leaves (Dimkpa et al., 2015; Qureshi et al., 2018). Moreover, coating of nano and sub nano-composites are capable of regulating the release of nutrients from the fertilizer capsule and nano particles have both positive and negative charged binding site that adsorbed available nitrogen in soil and curtail different type of losses resulted in increased uptake of nitrogen by crop Nanoparticles triggered metabolic activity in plants which results in increased exudation and acidity. Subsequently, release of PO4 may occur as a result of a ligand exchange reaction triggered by plant root exudation, potentially disrupting the adsorption-desorption equilibrium and releasing P into the soil solution where it is easily available for uptake. Application of nano particles improves carbon balance in crops, accelerates plant growth, leads to increase in the efficiency of micro and macronutrients of plants and reducing the use of chemical fertilizers per unit area which causes environmental problems. These results are in correlation with results of Junrungrean et al. (2002); Aljabri (2010); Junejo et al. (2012); Soliman et al. (2016); Shrivastava et al. (2017); Togas et al. (2017); Mahil and Kumar (2019); Hasan and Saad (2020).\r\nEconomics. A careful evaluation of the information decoded from Table 3 uncovers that the maximum net return (` 109637) and benefit-cost ratio (2.37) was obtained under the application of N3 (50 % Conventional urea + 50 % of Nano urea fertilizer) which was statistically analogous to N2 (75 % Conventional urea + 25 % of Nano urea fertilizer) with net return of ` 102044 and benefit-cost ratio of 2.20 howbeit, net return and benefit-cost ratio under N3 were found significant over the other treatments and net return was greater than by 10.54, 15.79 and 22.90 per cent over N1 (100 % Conventional urea fertilizer), N4 (25 % Conventional urea + 75 % of Nano urea fertilizer) and N5 (100 % of Nano urea fertilizer), respectively. Greater net return was fetched as a consequence of lower cultivation costs due to reduced urea application and effective use of foliar nano fertilizers, which resulted in higher grain and straw yield and as a result, higher net return. These findings were in accordance with Mehta and Bharat (2019); Manikandan et al. (2016); Kumar et al. (2020).\r\nB. Effect of Biofertilizers\r\nNutrient content and uptake. In the present study data explicated that nitrogen, phosphorus, potassium, iron and zinc content and uptake by grain and straw of wheat appreciably improved by inoculation of seed with different biofertilizers. The highest same nutrient was reported with cumulative inoculation of seed with Azotobacter + PSB over control and single inoculation. The N, P, K, Fe and Zn content increased by 2.55, 6.38, 2.04, 7.73 and 8.95 per cent in grain and 4.25, 2.98, 2.66, 8.71 and 9.81 per cent in straw, respectively with combine inoculation of seed with Azotobacter + PSB over control i.e., B1 (No biofertilizer), respectively. Whereas, the uptake was found to increase more significantly with combine inoculation of Azotobacter + PSB. Considerably the loftiest amount of nutrient uptake of N, P, K, Fe and Zn by grain (79.46, 19.15, 19.87, 0.24 and 0.21 kg ha-1), straw (39.68, 13.54, 189.13, 0.98 and 0.39 kg ha-1) and total (119.14, 32.69, 209.00, 1.22 and 0.60 kg ha-1) was recorded when seed of the black wheat was inoculated with the conglomerated mixture of Azotobacter + PSB and statistically it was found superior over rest all of the biofertilizers treatment. But only in case of P and K uptake by straw under B2 (Azotobacter) was found at par with uptake under B4 (Azotobacter + PSB).\r\nThrough biological processes, biofertilizers are capable of transforming essential nutritional components in the soil from non-usable to usable form for crop plants. Azotobacter inoculated seeds facilitated the efficient uptake of N, P, and micronutrients like Fe and Zn in wheat. Mineralization of organic nitrogen and phosphorus enhances nitrogen and phosphorus availability in soil, resulting in increased nutrient absorption by plants via inoculation of nitrogen and phosphorus fixing bacteria. Azotobacter promoted the activity of nitrogenase and nitrate reductase enzymes in soil for higher nitrogen fixation. The nutrient content and uptake by plants appreciably improved when seeds were inoculated with Azotobacter and PSB prior to sowing because Azotobacter can be attributed to enhanced specific activities of iso citric and malic dehydrogenase enzyme, the source of electrons during nitrogen fixation, resulting in a more favourable nutritional environment (Kurtz and Larue, 1975) and PSB solubilize both natural and added phosphorus (Singh et al., 2012). Hameeda et al. (2008) reported that PSB solubilizes insoluble inorganic phosphate compounds in soil, such as tricalcium phosphate and dicalcium phosphate, by the excretion of various organic acids from root exudates. Potassium absorption from soil also rises when N and P availability increased. Thus, synergistic effect of biofertilizers enhanced the content and uptake of nitrogen, phosphorus and potassium in grain and straw. These results are in accordance with the Abbasi and Yousra (2012); Singh et al. (2018); Moradgholi et al. (2021); Radwan et al. (2021).\r\nEconomics. The results revealed that the utmost net return i.e. `105367 was recorded under seed treatment with B4 (Azotobacter + PSB) which was statistically significant over the all-remaining treatments and it was higher with the tune of 13.23, 7.93 and 9.37 per cent over B1 (No biofertilzer), B2 (Azotobacter) and B3 (PSB), respectively. Similarly, when seeds were inoculated with amalgamated mixture of Azotobacter and PSB (B4) then highest B-C ratio (2.27) was fetched and this was statistically superior over all other treatments of biofertilizer.\r\nSo, the results showed that bio-fertilizers inoculation significantly affected the net return and benefit-cost ratio. The highest amount of net return and benefit- cost ratio was fetched with dual inoculation of Azotobacter + PSB (Table 3). The use of effective strains of bio-fertilizers is an environmentally benign, low-cost agricultural input that plays an essential role in enhancing nutrient availability to crops while also lowering production costs (Kumar, 2013). These non-traditional fertilizer sources not only save money, but they also boost soil and crop output dramatically. These observations complement the findings of Ram and Mir (2006); Davari et al. (2012).\r\n\r\n','Kannoj, J. Choudhary, Devendera Jain, Manish Tomar, Ritesh Patidar and Ruchika Choudhary (2022). Effect of Nano Urea vs Conventional Urea on the Nutrient Content, Uptake and Economics of Black Wheat (Triticum aestivum L.) along with Biofertilizers. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 14(2a): 499-504.'),(5191,'134','Physico-chemical properties and Nutritional Composition of Watermelon (Citrullus lanatus) and its Rind Flour','Ashoka S.*, Shamshad Begum S. and K.G. Vijayalaxmi','83 Physico-chemical properties and Nutritional Composition of Watermelon _Citrullus lanatus_ and its Rind Flour Ashoka S.pdf','',1,'Recently, it has taken a boom the use of fruit and vegetable waste to reduce environmental pollution. Inline, watermelon contains a large amount of polysaccharides, these carbohydrates might play an important role in the health benefits. The aim of this work was to evaluate proximate, chemical and nutritional profiles of freshly procured watermelon and its rind flour. The physical characteristics of the watermelon such as fruit weight, bulk density, length, breadth, TSS and pH were recorded. The watermelon had an average weight (4.49 kg), bulk density (1.03 g/ml), length (31.50 cm), breadth (24.56 cm), TSS (2.0°Brix) and pH (5.36) respectively. The dehydration parameters of the watermelon rind were also studied. The watermelon rind was dried at 60°C, up to 12 hours where the dehydration ratio was 5.6 per cent. The nutrient composition of dehydrated watermelon rind flour indicates that the moisture, carbohydrate, fat, protein, crude fibre and ash were 12.17 per cent, 46.02 g, 2.37 g, 10.18 g, 17.44 g and11.82 g respectively. The mineral composition of the rind flour was 254.25mg of calcium, 268.28mg of phosphorous, 345.48mg of magnesium and 12.76mg of iron respectively. Standardization of different processing methods helps to boost its nutritional value, increase the bioavailability of nutrients and may enhance sensory perception.','Watermelon, Physico-chemical Properties, Proximate composition, minerals, rind, pulp, dehydration','It can be concluded that watermelon rind is a rich source of ascorbic acid and other nutrients like fibre, protein, calcium, iron, phosphorous etc., therefore it can be utilised in the form of value-added products. Also, utilisation of watermelon rind helps in minimizing the environmental pollution.','INTRODUCTION\r\nFruits and vegetables are perishable in nature and incur deterioration at various phases of their harvesting, handling, transit, storage, marketing, processing. The utilization of wastes of fruit and vegetable processing as a source of functional ingredients is a promising field (Schieber et al., 2001). The ruined produce is not fit for marketing and are a virtual loss. Some fruits do not find much compatibility for processing and are usually used for direct eating, one such fruit is watermelon (Bhatnagar, 1991).\r\nWatermelon belongs Cucurbitaceae family member with a big, oval, round, or oblong shape. Watermelon cultivation has expanded greatly beyond the historically constrained riverbeds of the Yamuna, Ganges, and Narmada in the north, and Godavari, Krishnaand Kaveri in the south, due to inflation of demand for watermelon and its juice in both External (international) and internal (domestic) markets (Aguilo-Aguayo et al., 2010). Half of a watermelon fruit is edible while the other half, consisting of about 35% rind and 15% peel goes to waste (US Department of Agriculture, 2004). Watermelon flesh ranges in colour from pink to red, with some fruits having yellow flesh as well. Sugar Baby, Improved Shipper, Arka Jyoti, Arka Manik, Kiran, Melody, and other varieties of watermelon fruits are primarily found in India. Watermelon is divided into three parts: the flesh, the seed, and the rind. The outer layer of the fruit is smooth and has dark or light green stripes which turns to pale yellowish green when ripe.\r\nWatermelon has been considered favourite among the individuals during the hot, dry summer because of its cool, refreshing taste and appealing red colour. Iron, potassium, magnesium, and phosphorus, as well as other minerals and vitamins, are all abundant in watermelon. Besides vitamins (A, B, C and E), mineral salts (K, Mg, Ca and Fe), and specific amino acids (citrulline and arginine), watermelon provides a wide variety of dietary antioxidants such as carotenoids and phenolics (Perkins-Veazie et al., 2002; 2007). Also, rind of the watermelon possesses a good amount of total phenol contents (0.248 mg/ml) and high free radical scavenging ability (hydroxyl radical scavenger) (Oseni and Okoye 2013). In addition, watermelon contained citrulline compound, which was non-essential amino acid first identified from the juice of watermelon. Citrulline is used in the nitric oxide system in humans and has potential antioxidant and vasodilatation roles (Rimando and Perkins-Veazie, 2005). Even though the watermelon rind is also edible and nutritious, when the juice has been extracted, the remaining rind, seeds, and peel are typically either composted or dumped in open spaces, which causes environmental issues.\r\nFruit waste, which consists primarily of core, seeds, pomace, and peels, contains a high concentration of water and is in a moist and highly fermentable state. If not further processed, these agrowastes produce odour, soil pollution, insect habitat, and can cause major environmental pollution (Shalini and Gupta 2010).\r\nPhysical properties of agricultural commodities are those morphological characteristics that, when studied, are relevant to the design and development of harvesting, handling, processing, and storage equipment for that specific commodity. Mass, size, form, surface area, volume, aspect ratio, sphericity, true density, bulk density, porosity, and angle of repose are among these properties. These characteristics are measurable and characterise the physical state of the materials at any specific point and circumstance. Sorting, grading, and other separation activities require mass, size, and shape. Bulk density, actual density, and porosity are all useful parameters in storage, transportation, and separation systems (Burubai and Amber 2014).\r\nThere is dearth of literature availability on physico-chemical properties and nutritional composition of watermelon. In order to explore the physical-chemical characteristics and nutritional composition of watermelon (Citrullus lanatus) and its rind flour, the current research was carried out.\r\nMATERIALS AND METHODS\r\nThe present study on “Physico-chemical properties and nutritional composition of watermelon (Citrullus lanatus) and its rind flour” was carried out at the Department of Food Science and Nutrition, University of Agricultural Sciences, Bangalore during the year 2019.\r\nA. Materials\r\nSelection and Collection of Sample\r\nThe watermelon fruits were freshly procured from the neighbourhood market in Bangalore, Karnataka, India, when they were fully grown.\r\nB. Methods\r\nPhysico-chemical properties of watermelon. An average of five fruits were chosen at random to represent all the fruits.The mature and ripened fruits of watermelon were used for analysing the physical properties such as weight, volume, length, breadth, width, bulk density, and circumference. The colour and shape of the selected fruitswas observed from its physical/visual appearance.\r\nThe digital balance was used to weigh five randomly chosen fruits; the average was then calculated and expressed in kilos (kg). The volume of five fruits was determined by water displacement method and the average was represented in millilitre (mL). Bulk density of the fruits was calculated by the readings of weight and volume of the fruits and the readings expressed in (g/ml). Length, Breadth, and Width of the watermelon were measured by placing fruit at resting position and by using the scale, the above components were estimated using proper methods and expressed in centimetres (cm). Length-wise circumference and width-wise circumference of the watermelon was measured by passing a thread around the lower, middle and upper part of the fruit. The average of the three measurements was then computed and represented in centimetres (cm).\r\nProcessing of watermelon. The watermelon melons were cleaned with a clean dry cloth after being thoroughly washed under gently running tap water. All of the watermelons were peeled separately using a peeler, the pulp was extracted from the rind with a knife, and the remaining seeds were separated by cutting the pulp into little cubes. Various sections of the fruit were depicted in (Fig. 1). Following the previous methods, the amounts of pulp, rind, seeds, and peel were recorded with a digital electronic balance and percentages determined.\r\nTotal edible waste of watermelon. The fruits total edible waste was calculated using the following formula. The percent of edible waste was also calculated.\r\nTotal edible waste = Weight of seed + Weight of rind\r\nEdible waste generated (%)=(Weight of edible waste)/(Weight of whole fruit)×100\r\nTotal waste generated from watermelon\r\nTotal waste generated from watermelon fruits was calculated using the following formula and percentage was calculated.\r\nTotal waste generated = Weight of the peel + Seed + Rind\r\nTotal waste generated (%)= (weight of the total waste)/(weight of whole fruit) ×100\r\nPulp and rind ratio. The weight of the pulp and rind was taken separately. Then the pulp to rind ratio was calculated by using the following formula.\r\nPulp to rind ratio=(Weight of the pulp)/(Weight of the rind)\r\nDehydration of watermelon rind. The watermelon rind was weighed and dried at 60 °C until it dried completely (Fig. 2). Using an electric grinder, the dehydrated rind was ground into powder and sieved using a scientific sieve. The dried flour was then packed and used for another purpose.\r\nDehydration Ratio. Dehydrated samples were weighed and per cent dry matter was calculated (Ranganna 1986).\r\nDehydration ratio =(weight of dehydrated sample)/(Weight of fresh sample)\r\nChemical Parameters of watermelon rind. By using the oven drying method, the moisture content of fresh watermelon was identified. In order to get a constant weight as well as calculate percentages, the rind was dried in a hot air oven at a temperature of 60 °C. A hand refractometer was used to analyse the watermelon rind\'s Total Soluble Solids (TSS). A pocket pH metre was used to measure the pH of the watermelon rind (LMPH-10 Upgraded Model).\r\nProximate and mineral composition. The proximate composition of the watermelon rind flour samples was determined using standard AOAC methods. The watermelon rind flour moisture content was determined using oven drying method. Fat content was determined by Soxhlet extraction method (AOAC 1980). Protein content was determined by the micro Kjeldahl distillation method (AOAC). Crude fibre was analysed by acid and subsequent alkali treatment method (AOAC 1980). Ashing was completed in a muffle furnace (AOAC 1980). Carbohydrate content was calculated by the differential method. Energy also calculated by computation method and all results were expressed as % w/w, based on dry weight basis.\r\nCHO (g/100g) = 100- [Protein(g) + Fat(g) + Fiber(g) + Ash(g) + Moisture(g)]\r\nEnergy (kcal) = [Protein (g) × 4] + [Carbohydrate (g) × 4] + [Fat (g) × 9].\r\nVitamin C (ascorbic acid) estimation was done by a titrimetric method using Iodate Solution (Ranganna, 1996).\r\nThe AOAC 1980 method was used to analyse the mineral composition. 5 ml of a 1:1 solution of distilled water and fuming HCl were added to the resulting ash. After drying the mixture over a water bath, another 5 ml of the solution was added. The crucible was removed at this stage and its contents were filtered using Whatman No. 1 filter paper into a ml volumetric flask and diluted. It was then heated further over the water bath until it began to fume. The crucible and filter paper were thoroughly rinsed before the volume was filled with distilled water to the appropriate level. For the estimate of all the minerals in this investigation, aliquots of this mineral solution were obtained.\r\nBy titrating against a standard (EDTA) until the colour changes from pink to violet, the calcium was calculated (AOAC 1980). By titrating against a standard (EDTA) until the colour changes from pink to blue, the amount of magnesium was calculated (AOAC 1980). By measuring calorimetrically, the blue colour that results from the ash solution\'s treatment with ammonium molybdate, which reduces the amount of phosphomolybdate that forms, phosphorus was estimated (AOAC 1980). Using an atomic absorption spectrophotometer, the iron content of the sample was calculated, and the results are given in milligrams per 100 grammes of the sample (AOAC 1980).\r\nRESULTS AND DISCUSSIONS:\r\nA. Physico-chemical Properties of watermelon rind\r\nThe physical characteristics of the watermelon such as fruit weight, volume, bulk density, length, breadth, and circumference were recorded and indicated in Table 1. The average weight of the whole watermelon was around 4.49 kg, whereas volume, bulk density, length, and breadth were 4625 ml, 1.03 g/ml, 31.50 cm and 24.56 cm, respectively. The other physical properties like length-wise and width-wise circumference were 71.96 cm and 53.36 cm respectively.\r\nThe weight, length, breadth, and length-wise circumference of watermelon in this study indicated that it had higher values than the study reported by Deepa, (2015) which was 3.34 kg, 23.38 cm, 17.93 cm and 62.02 cm respectively whereas width-wise circumference was about 54.92 cm which is higher than the present study respectively. Similar results are observed for the weight of the fruit reported by El-Badry et al. (2014). The pulp, seeds, peel, and rind are the four basic components of a watermelon that make up its biomass. Approximate percentages of the fruit\'s weight that were made up of the pulp, seeds, peel and rind were 66.16 %, 1.04 %, 3.35 %, and 29.43 percent, respectively (Fig. 3).\r\nIt was found that the total amount of waste generated from fresh cut watermelon was around 33.38 percent it includes the weight of the peel, rind, and seeds. Out of this 33.38 per cent of total waste, the edible waste generated was about 30.48 percent it contains the weight of the seeds and weight of the rind (Fig. 4). Similar results are observed by the study El-Badry et al. (2014). The pulp to rind ratio was 2.23. Almost similar results were reported by Kumar (1985); Deepa (2015) wherein the weight of the pulp, seeds, and rind and the results revealed that 68 %, 2 %, 30 % and 60.18 %, 2.10 % and 29.94 % of the total weight of the fruit respectively. The seeds and rind weight were lower and rind weight was varying compared to the above-mentioned studies it might be due to different size and variety of the fruit as well.\r\nIt was observed that the chemical properties like moisture, pH, and TSS of the rind were found to be 94.40, 5.36 and 2.00 respectively. The results were on par with the study conducted by Deepa (2015) reported that chemical parameters of watermelon rind pH and TSS was 4.71 and 3.02 respectively.\r\n\r\nB. Processing of watermelon\r\nDehydration\r\nThe dehydration parameters of the watermelon rind were indicated in Table 2. The rind was subjected to dehydration in an oven at 60°C up to 12 hours. It was observed that there is high moisture loss and the dehydrated ratio was found to be 5.59.\r\nC. Proximate composition of watermelon rind flour\r\nThe proximates like protein, fat, crude fibre, total ash, carbohydrates, ascorbic acid, and minerals were analysed and the results are presented in Table 3.\r\nThe nutrient composition of watermelon rind flour has a moisture 12.17 per cent, protein 10.18 g, fat 2.37 g, crude fibre 17.44 g, ash 11.82 g and carbohydrates 46.02 g respectively. Ascorbic acid was found to be 10.25 mg. The mineral composition of the rind flour was found to be 254.25 mg of calcium, 268.28 mg of phosphorous, 345.48 mg of magnesium and 12.76 mg of iron respectively.\r\nThe moisture content of watermelon rind flour of the present study was found higher than the results reported by Hoque and Iqbal (2015) as 10.72 %, the other proximate such as protein, fat, ash and carbohydrates were lower than with values being 11.21 %, 2.38 %, 12.61 %, and 73.18 % respectively. Also, the present results are in line with the study conducted by Badr (2015); Hassan et al. (2017).\r\nHowever, the moisture, ash, fat, protein crude fibre and carbohydrates of watermelon rind flour were 10.61 %, 13.09 %, 2.44 %, 11.17 %, 17.28 %, and 56.02 % as per Al-Sayed and Ahmed, (2013) which is almost similar to the present study.\r\nEl-Badry et al. (2014) studied the nutritional composition of watermelon rind flour and the results revealed that it had 11.25 % moisture, 8.70 % protein, 2.21 % fat, 12.93 % ash, 16.8 % crude fibre and 76.16 % carbohydrates, whereas minerals such as calcium, phosphorus, magnesium, and iron which was found to be 276.22 mg, 273.28 mg, 346.61 mg, and 13.5 mg respectively. The observed minerals of this study were slightly lower than El-Badry et al. (2014) which might be due to a difference in a variety of fruit, drying condition and climatic conditions.\r\n','Ashoka S., Shamshad Begum S. and K.G. Vijayalaxmi (2022). Physico-chemical properties and Nutritional Composition of Watermelon (Citrullus lanatus) and its Rind Flour. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 14(3): 505-510.'),(5192,'136','Isolation and Identification of Pyricularia sp. the Incitant of Pearl Millet Blast in Tamil Nadu','B. Kushmitha, I. Johnson*, K. Mahendra, R. Anandham, N. Saranya and S. Nakkeeran','1 Isolation and Identification of Pyricularia sp. the Incitant of Pearl Millet Blast in Tamil Nadu I. Johnson.pdf','',1,'Pearl millet (Pennisetum glaucum), often called as Bajra which is cultivated mostly in marginal agricultural regions with unpredictable annual rainfall. Though it is cultivated in larger areas its production is hampered due to many foliar diseases among which leaf blast disease caused by Magnaporthe grisea is one of the most significant foliar diseases causing grain and forage yield losses. A total of four isolates of Magnaporthe grisea were isolated from the infected samples of pearl millet collected from eight districts of Tamil Nadu, India. The varied symptoms including spindle shaped lesions, eye shaped spots which had greyish centre with brown borders were taken for the isolation of the pathogen. The main aim of this particular research was to look at the various morphological traits in the culture media, pathogenicity assay to identify the virulent isolate, isolate confirmation using molecular level and generate phylogenetic analysis. Morphological characters like colony appearance and colour, mycelial characters, conidia structure, shape, growth pattern and virulence assay were evaluated both in vitro as well as in pot culture studies. The universal primers ITS 1 and ITS 4 have been used for amplification of the internal transcriber spacer and the isolates were amplified at 560bp (appx.). The findings revealed that all isolates are Pyricularia spp. and phylogenetic analysis done comparing eight ITS sequences of reference Pyricularia isolates indicated that the nucleotide sequences of the collected isolates showed sequence similarity with Pyricularia grisea and Pyricularia pennisetigena which have been deposited in NCBI Genbank database (Pyricularia grisea -OM883863 and Pyricularia pennisetigena ON116174). The main course of the research was to isolate and characterize the blast pathogen, Pyricularia grisea infecting the pearl millet crop.','Pearl millet, blast, Pyricularia grisea, isolation, characterization, phylogenetic tree','The findings of this study validated the symptomatology, isolation, morphological characterization and molecular characterization of the Pyricularia isolates collected from 8 districts of Tamil Nadu. Species level confirmation of virulent isolates and submission of the sequences in NCBI GenBank database and acquisition of accession number were obtained. Phylogenetic tree was constructed to know the closely related species in relation to the isolate.','INTRODUCTION\r\nPearl millet (Pennisetum glaucum (L.) R. Br.) is one of the most widely grown arid and semi-arid crops in India and African sub-continents after rice, wheat and sorghum. It has a good energy source of carbohydrate, fats(5-7%), protein (9-13%), fibre (1.2 g/100 g)and contains antioxidant such as coumaric acids which helps in better digestion (Patni and Agrawal 2017). Pearl millet blast which was originally documented in 1942 from Kanpur, UP, India (Mehta et al., 1952) has become a serious threat in the last decade causing rampant in India\'s pearl millet-growing areas. In India, the incidence of Pearl millet blast (Magnaporthe grisea) disease, which was once considered a minor disease, but now it has been increased at an alarming rate, primarily on commercial hybrids, in numerous states (Thakur et al., 2009). Severe outbreaks of Pyricularia leaf spot known as blast disease was reported in major pearl millet producing states, including Gujarat, Rajasthan, Uttar Pradesh, Madhya Pradesh, Karnataka and Delhi were shown an upsurge in the occurrence of this disease both inpearl millet leaves and grains (Timper et al., 2002). The forage production of pearl millet (cumbu) causing chronic reductions in the last few years (Wilson and Gates 1993). The quality and productivity of the pearl millet crop are impacted by Magnaporthe blast, which has been found to be negatively connected with green-plot yields, dry matter production and digestion dry matter yield. The severity of the blast disease is exacerbated by humid weather conditions and dense plant stands. The fungus may infect plants at any stage of development, from seedling to adult, lowering grain and forage yields in varying degrees with occasionally dramatic negative consequences. The symptoms of Magnaporthe blast in pearl millet are most generally known as grey leaf spot. Initially, the symptoms appear as minute lesions or specks that expand and develop, necrotic elliptical greyish brown lesions, leading to extensive chlorosis and premature drying of leaves. The typical symptoms of the plants infected by Pyricularia pennisetigena showed small, brown, pinpoint, elliptical lesions with greying of the center in the later stages (Martinez et al., 2021). The M. grisea group is specific in its host range, but it is highly versatile in its ability to adapt to new environments. Molecular identification of the pathogen, which has shown to be a solid alternative to older approaches, is one of the rapid and easy ways for detecting the species diversity of fungal communities. To distinguish between the isolates, morphological characters and molecular by through internal transcribed spacer sequencing by using primers ITS 1 and ITS 4 were performed. The main intention of this research was to analyse different morphological characters of the fungi and confirming the pathogen using both morpho and molecular methods. Since, infectivity of the pathogen Pyricularia pennisetigena on pearl millet is not reported in Southern parts of India, this study paved a way for better understanding of the pathogen characters. \r\nMATERIALS AND METHODS\r\nCollection and Isolation of the blast pathogen: Leaves with typical spindle shaped lesions, associated with blast disease were collected from the pearl millet field from 8 districts of Tamil Nadu which were designated with the code as PMBT (Tirupur), CO-10 (Coimbatore), DP1 (Dharmapuri), KR2 (Krishnagiri), ERT (Erode), ALR (Ariyalur), SLM (Salem),and TVM (Thindivanam). The pathogen was isolated on potato dextrose agar medium. Infected leaves were washed using sterile water and the infected leaf portions were cut into small bits using sterile scalpel blade. Then the leaf bits were sterilized using 1% sodium hypochlorite solution for about 30 seconds followed by washing in sterile distilled water for three times and placed in Whatman no. 40 filter paper. Using sterile forceps the leaf bits were placed in petri plates containing sterilized PDA medium which was amended with streptomycin (50μg/ml) under aseptic conditions. The plates were incubated at room temperature (25oC). After initiation of growth is observed in the petri plates, single hyphal tip was transferred into new petri plate containing 15ml of sterilized PDA medium to obtain the pure culture of the fungi. For sporulating the fungus, the stem of the main host were cut into small bits (3-5 cm) and added to conical flasks, sterilized in an autoclave at 121oC for 20 minutes at 15 lbs pressure. The mycelial disc (9mm) of 7 days old culture was added to each flask. After 15 days the stem bits were taken out under sterile conditions and added to eppendorf tube containing distilled water, shaked vigorously to dislodge the spores and the conidial morphology was observed under the light microscope (Vanaraj et al., 2013). For additional research, the culture was maintained on PDA slants at 4 °C and stored at -20 °C for medium to long term preservation.\r\nExamination of cultural and morphological characteristics. Pearl millet blast infected isolates were grown at 25°C for 7 days on PDA medium, following which mycelium discs were transferred to the middle of a fresh PDA medium, within 10-14 days, fungal mycelium had covered the whole plate. All of the isolates on PDA media were evaluated daily for 5 to 10 days for their colony shape (morphology), texture and colour. The mycelial characters, colour and septations were observed.\r\nPathogenicity assessment under in vitro and glasshouse conditions. Fresh leaves were collected and washed under running tap water. The leaves were then surface sterilized with 1% sodium hypochlorite and subsequently washed with sterilized distilled water for three times and placed on sterilized tissue paper for drying. The leaves were placed in petri plates which has been basally layered with cotton on which 4-5 drops of sterile water was added to maintain humidity, the leaves were placed on blotter paper placed above the cotton which was cut to fit the shape of the petri plate. A 9 mm actively growing mycelial disc was placed on the centre of the leaf. The plates were covered and incubated at a temperature of 22-24o C. After 7-10 days, the lesions were developed on the region around the disc. For conducting the pathogenicity assay under glass house conditions, Pearl millet seeds were sown in plastic pots filled with a combination of three parts soil to one part farmyard manure. The isolates grown on PDA plates with actively growing fungal mycelia were flooded with 10-15 ml of sterile water and fungal mass containing mycelia were scrapped with sterile scalpel blade. It was filtered through a muslin cloth and concentration of spores were adjusted using haemocytometer to 5 × 104 conidia/ml. Tween 20 (0.02%) was added as an adhesive agent to spore suspension before inoculation. Inoculation was performed on test seedlings at the three to four leaf stages (about 15 days old plants) by spraying the inoculum till run-off under glass house conditions. Polythene bags were placed over the infected plants for 24 hours. Following the incubation phase, the test plants were watered on a daily basis to maintain high humidity levels favourable for disease development (>90% RH). Symptoms occurred 5-7 days post-inoculation. \r\nIsolation and quantification of genomic DNA. Total DNA was extracted by using modified CTAB method. Isolates PMBT and CO-10 were cultured in PDA plates and 5 days after the cultures were transferred to potato dextrose broth (100 ml). The fungal mycelia (100-150 mg)were collected and ground to fine powder in a pestle and mortar by using liquid nitrogen. The ground and powdered mycelium was transferred to an Eppendorf tube (2 ml) which consists of a mixture of 1 ml of extraction buffer consisting of (2% CTAB buffer, 4M NaCl, 0.5M EDTA, 1M Tris-Cl, 0.02% β-Mercapto- ethanol). After 1 hour of incubation at 65°C, an equal amount of phenol, chloroform, and isoamyl alcohol (25:24:1) was added and the mixture was centrifuged at 12000 rpm for 10 minutes. After mixing well, the clear supernatant was put into an Eppendorf tube and an equal amount of chloroform and isoamyl alcohol (24:1) was added. This mixture was mixed and the tube was spun at 12000 rpm for 10 minutes. Then, ice cold isopropanol was added into the supernatant, mixed thoroughly and refrigerated at -20°C for overnight. After centrifugation the supernatant was discarded and the DNA pellet was washed with 100% ethanol, air dried after centrifugation again and resuspended in 100 μl sterile distilled water. The quality and amount of fungal DNA were determined using gel electrophoresis and the Nanodrop Spectrophotometer. For use in the PCR process, the DNA samples were diluted to a concentration of 30-50 ng/μl after nanodrop quantification. (Amplification via polymerase chain reaction and documentation) (Doyle et al., 1990).\r\nAmplification via polymerase chain reaction and gel documentation. With the help of fungal universal primers, the ITS region of rDNA was successfully amplified using ITS 1 ((5\'-TCCGTAGGTGAACCTGCGG-3\') and ITS 4 (5\'-TCCTCCGTTGATATGC-3\') primers (White et al., 1990). Amplification of genomic DNA was carried out using a thermocycler (Master Eppendorf) using the following PCR conditions. The reaction mixture consisting of 10 μl of master mix, 4 μl of sterile water, each 2 μl of forward and reverse primers and genomic DNA 2 μl was used for the amplification process. The PCR was performed by initial denaturation at 94°C for 5 min which is followed by denaturation at 94°C for 60 sec, annealing at 58°C for 60 sec, extension at 72°C for 60 sec followed by a final extension at 72°C for 10 min for over 35 cycles (White et al., 1990). Agarose gel prepared at a concentration of 1.2 percent of agarose in TAE (tris acetic acid) buffer containing ethidium bromide at a concentration of 2μl/100 ml and allowed to solidified to form agel with place of comb to form a well. The amplified PCR products were loaded in the wells and run by electrophoresis at a voltage of 80 for 1 hour followed by documentation and assessment using a gel documentation Transilluminator system (GelDoc, BIO-RAD, Canada). The PCR product size was compared to the standard 1kb ladder. The DNA got amplified around the region of 560 bp. \r\nITS region sequencing and phylogenetic tree construction. The PCR results were subsequently sequenced to authenticate the species. The resulting nucleotide sequences were analysed by using BLAST. Accession numbers were obtained after depositing the isolates in Gen Bank. Mega X Software was used to align the sequences of the isolates, and similar ITS1-ITS4 sequences were obtained from the NCBI gen bank in order to discriminate between the isolates. The neighbour-joining technique was used in the construction of a phylogenetic tree (Kumar et al., 2016). The resilience of clades was assessed using a 1000 bootstrap replication.\r\nRESULTS AND DISCUSSIONS\r\nCollection and Isolation of Magnaporthe grisea. Blast infected pearl millet leaf samples were collected from eight districts of Tamil Nadu among which the virulent isolates were pertaining to the samples collected from Tirupur and Coimbatore district (Table 1) (Fig. 1). The samples were collected based on the symptoms such as typical eye shaped lesion with dark brown borders (Yi et al., 2022). The leaf blast prevalent in hot western arid regions of Rajasthan were found to belong to the species Pyricularia pennisetigena which was validated from multiple sequence alignment verified from the deposited sequences in USA (Solanki et al., 2022). The host physical stimulus and hydration plays a key role in appressorium development of the pathogen (Sharma et al., 2019). The diseased leaf samples were isolated on PDA medium and incubated at 25oC (Fig. 2). The pure culture of the pathogen was obtained by single hyphal tip method. For sporulating the pathogen, stem bits of the host were autoclaved and the mycelial discs of the pathogen were inoculated. After 2 weeks the conidia were observed on the surface of the stem bits (Fig. 3). Magnoporthe grisea infects leaves with spores, the pathogen\'s most crucial stage for disease emergence, which tend to germinate on a hydrophobic leaf surface. After adhering firmly to the plant\'s surface, the fungus produces immense pressure within the melanized appressorium and enters the leaf\'s epidermal cell using a small penetration peg (Heath et al., 1992). The culture was kept on PDA slants and stored at 4 °C and -20 °C, respectively, for the course of the experiment.\r\nExamination of cultural and morphological characteristics. The mycelial characters of the fungi including the colour, colony characters and morphology (pattern) on PDA medium were observed. The radial growth and texture of the colony varied substantially for the isolates. The growth and colour of the mycelia ranged from greyish white to blackish grey in colour on PDA medium (Table 2). On potato dextrose agar, blast fungus had greyish colonies with smooth circular margins and concentric rings (Sonah et al., 2009). The pathogen was found to be Magnaporthe based on its conidial structures and colony characteristics (Ou, et al., 1985). The fungal pathogen identified as M. grisea in this investigation was based on the main morphological and cultural features described by (Bourett et al., 1990). The morphology of pathogenic cultures varied from one culture to others and based on medium also. The quantity of aerial mycelium varies greatly, ranging from a thin to a dense cottony mass. The cultural and morphological differences revealed among the pearl millet blast pathogen isolates matched prior results on P. grisea made by other researchers investigating on the same topic (Srivastava et al., 2014). The spores were examined under the microscope. The shape, presence of septation, hilum etc. were observed.\r\nThe isolate\'s conidiophores were discovered to be thin and straight, containing clusters of conidia that were generally pyriform or obclavate and 2-3 septate (Getachew et al., 2014). The pyriform shape of the conidia indicates that Pyricularia grisea is an asexual anamorph of the Magnaporthe isolate.\r\nPathogenicity assessment under in vitro and glasshouse conditions. The virulent isolate among the two was finalized as virulent based on the assay conducted under in vitro in which fresh untreated leaves of the host were taken. The leaves were surface sterilized using 1% sodium hypochlorite solution followed by washing with sterile distilled water 3 times. The 9mm mycelial disc of 7 days old culture was placed in the leaf surface. The lesions were formed around the mycelial disc after a week (Fig. 4). The pathogen becomes necrotrophic at 48 hours after inoculation by producing thin-invasive hyphae which is followed by the development of peg which differentiates into lobed- bulbous infectious hyphae that will expand intracellularly and intercellularly causing blast lesions (Howard et al., 1996). For conducting the pathogenicity test under glass house conditions, seeds were sown in pots containing mixture of FYM and soil. The spore suspension was sprayed at a rate of 5 × 104 conidia/ml with tween 20 (0.02%) which was used as an adhesive (Fig. 5). Based on the symptom development the isolates PMBT and CO-10 showed virulent nature compare to other isolates. In accordance with Koch\'s postulate, pathogens were determined to be related with disease at all stages of crop development and were able to produce disease when re-inoculated into the same host. Hence study was conducted by testing the pathogenicity of the detected field strain on the same pearl millet variety from which the organism was obtained. The re-isolation of the pathogen was done and it was found to be the same kind as the previously isolated one. Thus, Koch\'s postulate was demonstrated.\r\nMolecular characterization of the pathogen:\r\nAmplification via polymerase chain reaction and gel documentation. DNA extraction, PCR amplification using ITS PCR primers, and Sanger sequencing were used to identify and validate the molecular identity of the field sample. ITS rDNA sequencing and molecular analysis were done. Two isolates viz., PMBT and CO-10 which were virulent among others were opted for performing molecular approaches. Molecular detection of Pyricularia grisea and Pyricularia pennisetigena using the primers ITS 1 and ITS 4 for amplification of isolates were done (Fig. 6). The amplification values were found to be approximately 560bp which was similar to our experiments (Chuwa et al., 2013). The amplicon of size 520 bp was observed in course of amplifying, Magnaporthe oryzae isolates from Eastern India using universal primers ITS 1 and ITS 4 (Priyanka et al., 2021). To confirm the pathogen at species level, the PCR products were purified up and sequenced.\r\nITS region sequencing and phylogenetic tree construction. Phylogenetic relationship of the isolates with other nucleotides available in NCBI are done to know the category in which the isolates are genetically related with (Fig. 7) Isolates of Pyricularia infecting different hosts were taken for phylogenetic analysis (Klaubaf et al., 2014). The Pyricularia grisea isolate showed 98.90% and Pyricularia pennisetigena isolate showed 100% identity when compared with sequences available in NCBI and these isolates sequenced were deposited NCBI genbank (Accession number- Pyricularia grisea -OM883863 and Pyricularia pennisetigena ON116174) (Table 3). Phylogenetic tree constructed by using MEGA X software revealed that the isolate Pyricularia grisea showed 26% similarity and Pyricularia pennisetigena showed 91% similarity with the isolates in various clades taken for phylogenetic tree construction. \r\n','B. Kushmitha, I. Johnson, K. Mahendra, R. Anandham, N. Saranya and S. Nakkeeran (2022). Isolation and Identification of Pyricularia sp., the Incitant of Pearl Millet Blast in Tamil Nadu. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 14(3): 01-07.'),(5193,'136','Genetic Diversity Studies in Soybean (Glycine max (L.) Merrill) Germplasm Lines Based on Mahalanobis D2 Distance','Kavuri Sharon Roja*, M. Rajendar Reddy, M. Sreedhar and K. Lakshmi Prasanna','2 Genetic Diversity Studies in Soybean _Glycine max _L._ Merrill_ Germplasm Lines Based on Mahalanobis D2 Distance Kavuri Sharon Roja.pdf','',1,'Genetic divergence analysis is very helpful to compute the nature and extent of genetic diversity in a group of germplasm. The analysis helps in the identification of genetically diverse genotypes for hybridization programs to obtain desirable recombinants or transgressive segregants. Hence the present investigation was carried out to assess the genetic diversity present among 55 soybean germplasm lines along with 5 checks for 16 different quantitative traits. All the genotypes were grouped into 14 clusters by performing Tocher’s clustering method using Mahalanobis D2 distance. Cluster I was the largest, comprising of 32 genotypes, followed by Cluster II with 16 genotypes. The maximum genetic distance (D2) was observed between cluster VII and XIII (858.60), followed by clusters IX and XIV (807.51), clusters VII and X (794.75), clusters VII and IX (755.77) and clusters IV and X (697.77). Cluster XIV had the highest means for branches per plant (7.80) and clusters per plant (29.00). The results revealed that the highest contribution of seed yield per plant (31.26%) towards total diversity, followed by harvest index (21.18%), plant height (12.76%) and seed germination rate (10.00%). The soybean genotypes belonging to the clusters VII and XIII were found to be the most divergent, hence can be utilised in the recombination breeding programmes to exploit maximum heterosis.','Soybean; Genetic diversity; Mahalanobis D2 statistics, cluster','The current investigation\'s findings shows that the selected soybean lines are highly diverse and are formed into a total of 14 clusters. The accessions belong to the most distant clusters, namely (VII and XIII), (IX and XIV), (VII and X). These might be used directly or as parents in the soybean hybridization programme for yield improvement.','INTRODUCTION\r\nSoybean (Glycine max L. Merrill) is a high-nutritional oilseed crop grown in India and around the world. It is a member of the Papilionaceae family and has the chromosome number 2n=40. It is known as the \"miracle bean\" or \"golden bean\" because of its properties such as protein content (40-42%) and 20% edible oil, in addition to minerals and vitamins. Soybean protein contains all of the essential amino acids, along with cardio-friendly oil that meets 30% of the world\'s vegetable oil requirements (Khan et al., 2022). Therefore, soybean could be regarded as an ideal food crop for the people of poor and developing countries as it contains high quality protein and reasonable quantity of oil as a source of energy (Kumar et al., 2018).\r\nThe first and most important step in any crop improvement programme is genetic diversity analysis. There are several important applications for genetic diversity among genotypes in crop improvement. Estimates of genetic divergence provide the extent of diversity existed within the available germplasm and moreover, evaluation of genetic diversity is important to know the sources of genes for a particular trait (Meena et al., 2017). This diversity analysis information can be used to classify germplasm for cultivar identification, assist in parent selection for hybridization, and reduce the number of genotypes required to sample a wide range of genetic variability. A genetically diverse parent is required to increase the likelihood of selecting better seggregants for various characters (Adsul and Monpara 2014). Multivariate analysis, such as Mahalanobis D2 statistics, is extensively used in genetic divergence research findings to group genotypes so that more diverse genotypes are grouped into the most distant clusters. It is also useful in determining the relative contribution of each trait to total divergence (Swar et al., 2021).\r\nMATERIAL AND METHODS\r\nThe present investigation was carried out at the research farm, Agricultural Research Station (Adilabad) and PJTS Agricultural University, Hyderabad during 2021. The experimental material comprised of 55 soybean germplasm lines with five checks viz., JS 93-05, JS 335, KDS-753, AISb-50 and Basara. Basara is the local check of Telangana. All the entries were evaluated in Randomised Complete Block Design (RCBD) in three replications by keeping inter and intra-row spacing of 45 and 10 cm respectively.\r\nThe observations were recorded on whole plot basis for days to 1st flowering, days to 50 % flowering, days to 1st pod initiation, days to maturity, biomass and germination % whereas, data were recorded for plant height (cm), number of nodes on main stem of plant, number of branches plant-1, number of clusters plant-1, number of pods plant-1, 100 seed weight (g), seed yield plant-1 (g) and harvest index (%) traits based on five randomly selected plants of each entry per replication and protein content (%) and oil content (%) were estimated as per protocols of AOAC (1990). The recorded data was subjected to analysis of variance and Mahalanobis D2 statistics were used for genetic divergence analysis. Analysis of variance for Randomised Complete Block Design (RCBD) was performed as per the method suggested by Panse and sukhatme (1978). The genotypes were clustered by using Tocher\'s method. The intra- and inter-cluster distances were calculated and were used to describe the genotype relationship with the help of the formula proposed by Singh and Chaudhary (1977). The dissimilarity coefficient between genotypes was organised into a reasonable hierarchical system and estimated using the D value proposed by Sneathe and Sokal (1973). All the above mentioned analyses were performed using WINDOWSTAT software.\r\nRESULTS AND DISCUSSION\r\nA. Grouping of Accessions into Various Clusters \r\nThe Tocher\'s method was used to group 60 soybean germplasm lines based on D2 values. A total of 14 clusters were formed, within which two clusters contained multiple genotypes and the remaining 12 clusters contained only one genotype, indicating that genotypes are highly diverse in nature. The lines viz., KDS 1175, Z-5, PS 1682, Z-P1, Z-3, DLSb 3, KDS 1169, JS 20-03, PS 1675, Asb-62, KDS 1187, Z-16 belongs to clusters III, IV, V, VI, VII, VIII, IX, X, XI, XII, XIII and cluster XIV respectively which resembles that their distinct genotypic composition from the remaining genotypes. Cluster I was found to be the largest comprising of 32 genotypes followed by cluster II with 16 genotypes (Table 1, Fig. 1). Similar results are observed in findings of Pawar et al. (2015), Naik et al. (2016).\r\nB. Average Inter and Intra-cluster Distances \r\nThe intra-cluster D2 values ranged between zero and 113.86. Cluster II (113.86) had the greatest intra-cluster distance among the 14 clusters, followed by Cluster I (84.44), indicating the presence of some amount of genetic divergence in the genotypes belonging to these clusters. The genotypes carefully selected from these clusters may be used in future recombination breeding programmes. The remaining ten clusters had zero intra-cluster distance as they each had a single genotype (Table 2).\r\nThe inter-cluster distance ranged from 56.34 to 858.60. Clusters VII and XIII had the longest and best inter-cluster distance (858.60), followed by clusters IX and XIV (807.51), clusters VII and X (794.75), clusters VII and IX (755.77), and clusters IV and X (697.77). Similarly, the relatively short inter-cluster distance was observed between clusters V and VIII (56.34), followed by clusters IV and VII (95.97), clusters III and V (97.94), clusters X and XIII (110.47) and clusters I and III (120.67) (Table 2).\r\nThe greater the distance (D2) between clusters, the greater will be the genetic divergence between accessions belonging to that cluster (Ramyashree et al., 2016). Crossing between genotypes from different clusters increases the variability of the gene pool. Soybean germplasm lines from clusters VII (Z-3) and XIII (KDS 1187) were found to be the most divergent, and thus may be used in recombination breeding programmes to maximise heterosis.\r\n\r\nC. Cluster Means of the Characters\r\nA considerable difference was noticed among the cluster means for all the characters. The genotypes in cluster IX had minimum mean performance for days to 1st flowering (23.00), days to 50% flowering (29.00), days to 1st pod initiation (36.00), days to maturity (86.00), plant height (40.00 cm), and germination percentage (71.67%). The genotypes in cluster VI had a maximum mean for days to 1st flowering (44.00), days to 50% flowering (47.00), days to 1st pod initiation (66.00) and days to maturity (115.00). Cluster XIV had the highest means for branches per plant (7.80), clusters per plant (29.00) and nodes per plant (30.47), but it had the lowest mean for oil content (15.63).Cluster X had the lowest mean performance for branches per plant (3.20), clusters per plant (9.20), pods per plant (23.00), single plant yield (11.20) and biomass (388.45) and it had the highest value for 100 seed weight (15.33). For nodes per plant cluster, VIII recorded a minimum value of 10.93 and for 100 seed weight, XII (11.23) had a minimum value. Cluster VII had the highest mean for both seed germination percentage (87.00) and pods per plant (88.87). Cluster III had the lowest value for protein content (37.87). The traits like yield (25.40) and biomass (8054.37) showed maximum mean in cluster IV. For the harvest index, clusters XI (44.50) and XIII (35.07) recorded maximum and minimum mean values. Cluster XI had the highest mean for protein content (43.93), whereas cluster XIII had the highest mean for oil content (22.10) (Table 3).\r\nD. The Contribution of each Traits towards Total Divergence\r\nEach trait\'s contribution to total diversity is calculated based on the number of times the character appears in the first rank. The seed yield per plant appeared 560 times in the first rank, indicating the greatest contribution to total diversity. Biomass, on the other hand, appeared once in the first rank, indicating a lower contribution to total diversity. The relative contribution of each traits towards total divergence is mentioned in Table 4 and Fig. 2.\r\nThe results revealed the highest contribution of seed yield per plant (31.26%) towards total diversity, followed by harvest index (21.18%), plant height (12.76%), seed germination rate (10.00%), while other traits like oil content (0.16%) were noticed as the lowest contribution towards diversity, followed by pods per plant (0.33%), biomass (0.5%) and days to 1st pod initiation (1.46%).\r\nThe result suggests that the soybean accession selected for the present study are mostly divergent for seed yield per plant, harvest index, plant height and seed germination rate as these four characters contributed 75.2 % to the total diversity. The present findings are in agreement with the results obtained by Chandel et al. (2013) for harvest index and pods per plant, Manav and Arora (2018) for seed yield per plant and Kachadia et al, (2014). \r\n','Kavuri Sharon Roja, M. Rajendar Reddy, M. Sreedhar and K. Lakshmi Prasanna (2022). Genetic Diversity Studies in Soybean (Glycine max (L.) Merrill) Germplasm Lines Based on Mahalanobis D2 Distance. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 14(3): 08-13.'),(5194,'136','Survey-Based Study on Farmers Knowledge and Pattern of using Pesticides in Cardamom in Tamil Nadu','G. Manusha, K. Bhuvaneswari*, A. Suganthi and S. Raghul','3 Survey-Based Study on Farmers Knowledge and Pattern of using Pesticides in Cardamom in Tamil Nadu G. Manusha.pdf','',1,'A detailed survey was undertaken among cardamom growing farmers in three districts of Tamil Nadu viz., Theni, Nilgiris and Namakkal. Pests recorded in the cardamom ecosystem were shoot and capsule borer, thrips, white fly, red-spotted spider mite and hairy caterpillars. The insecticides, Chlorantraniliprole 18.5% SC and Chlorpyrifos 20% EC were the most common insecticides used to control borers and profenophos 50% EC and imidacloprid 17.8% SL were used against sucking pests. Farmers mainly used pesticides belonging to organophosphorus and newer molecules as per the recommendations of pesticide dealers. Central Insecticide Board and Registration Committee (CIB & RC) approved four insecticides - quinolphos 25% EC, Monocrotophos 36% SL, lambda-cyhalothrin 4.9% CS and diafenthiuron 50 % WP and two fungicides - copper oxychloride 50% WP and fosetyl-AL 80% WP for management of pest in cardamom. Farmers’ knowledge of pesticide risk improved and was shown by the use of stick to mix pesticides in spray tanks, use of measuring caps, avoiding reuse of pesticide containers for household purposes and adhering to pre-harvest intervals. Farmers understanding of prescribed pesticides, dosage, label claims and personnel protection during spray activities, on the other hand, was deficient.','Cardamom, survey, pesticides, Farmer knowledge','Cardamom was attacked by various pests like shoot and capsule borer, thrips, whiteflies, spotted red spider mite and hairy caterpillars. In the changing scenerio, thrips, shoot and capsule borer became the most prevalent pest. Farmers mainly used pesticides belonging to organophosphorus and newer molecules as per the recommendations of pesticide dealers. Farmers\' knowledge of pesticide risk as evident from the use of stick to mix pesticides, use of measuring caps, avoiding reusing of pesticide containers for household reasons and adhering to waiting periods. On the other hand, farmers\' understanding of prescribed pesticides, dosage, label claims, and personnel protection during spray activities, were deficient. As a result, farmers must be educated on pesticide choices, the importance of adopting the recommended dosage, and pesticide hazards on the environment and individuals.','INTRODUCTION\r\nSmall cardamom, Elettaria cardamomum (Maton), the “Queen of Spices” enjoys a unique position in the international spice market. It belongs to the family Zingiberaceae and it is native to the hills of Western Ghats of Kerala (Beevi et al., 2014). India is the leading producer of small cardamom occupying an area of 45,17,000 ha. producing around 38,000 MT in 2016, followed by Guatemala where the production is around 35,000 MT in the same period (International cardamom association ICA, 2019). In India, small cardamom is grown in the states of Karnataka, Kerala and Tamil Nadu. In Tamil Nadu, cardamom is grown over 4,03,000 hectares with a production of 37,000 tonnes (INDIASTAT, 2022). Despite the fact that India has the most cardamom growing land, productivity is low, owing to insect attack at all stages of the crop (George et al., 2015). Pest and disease incidence is high in cardamom which becomes a major challenge because of the absence of sufficient population of natural enemies of pests in the cardamom hills ecosystem and also complexities in the use of biological control methods and products (Murugan et al., 2017). Chemical control is the sole approach to pest management for the reasons stated above. However, pesticides used in excess and on a regular basis can leave residues in plants and soil (George et al., 2015). Gulf countries such as Saudi Arabia and the United Arab Emirates (UAE) are the major importers of cardamom. Unfortunately, due to excessive levels of pesticide residues, India\'s cardamom exports have fallen by 80 per cent (Beevi et al., 2014). Cardamom, while being a valuable export spice, has not been well investigated in terms of insect pest dynamics and pest management strategies. With this background, the present study was conducted to investigate the insect pests that attack the cardamom crop, as well as the use of pesticides and pesticide usage patterns in major cardamom growing districts of Tamil Nadu.\r\n \r\nMATERIALS AND METHODS\r\nIn the cardamom growing districts of Tamil Nadu, a detailed survey was undertaken. The survey was carried out in the districts of Nilgiris, Theni and Namakkal during February and March, 2022. Data on several aspects of pesticide usage such as source of information, type of pesticide usage, dose, frequency, safety precautions, knowledge on dosage recommendation, waiting period, type of disposal of empty pesticide containers and socio-economic status is collected from each district and documented.\r\nDetails of the study area. To understand the pest status and pesticide usage pattern in the cardamom ecosystem in Tamil Nadu, a comprehensive survey was undertaken. The Theni, Nilgiris and Namakkal Districts (Fig. 1) were purposively selected based on the extent of cultivation (1351, 900 and 51 ha, respectively) and the survey details are presented in Table 1.\r\nNature and source of data. The information on pest status and pesticide usage patterns was collected randomly from selected farmers from each district. Using a proper questionnaire format, information from 40 farmers were gathered for this investigation. Information from the farmers was collected individually in the study area using the prepared questionnaire. The questionnaire consisted of three major parts. \r\nPart 1: General information about the farmers (Farmer’s name, age, education details, family details).\r\nPart 2: Crop production information (Size of holding, crop-related data, the previous crop grown). \r\nPart 3: Crop protection information (Pest status, pesticide usage pattern which includes pesticides used, source of information on recommended pesticides, awareness about label information, pesticide application details, safety precautions, spray count, spray intervals, waiting period). The interview was conducted from February 2022 to March 2022. The questions were asked in order, from first to last, to give participants enough time to think about the question and respond appropriately. The respondents were completely volunteers and had complete discretion over whether or not to provide responses in the event of an explanation. However, no farmers refused to participate in the interview.\r\nRESULTS AND DISCUSSION\r\nA. Selected socio-economic factors of the farmers\r\nAccording to the socio-economic condition of the data obtained, majority of cardamom growers (72 per cent) were male, whereas female was low (28 per cent). Similarly, comparable findings have been reported by (Tyagi et al., 2015). The respondents were an average age, farm experience and family size of 46.17 years, 10-25years and 5.04 members (Table 2). Despite the fact that the majority of the farmers were literate, knowledge of scientific pest management approaches was found to be lacking. This was in agreement with earlier report (Prakash et al., 2021).\r\nB. Information regarding cardamom cultivation\r\nCardamom is a perennial herbaceous crop. All the farmers are practicing a monocropping system. The most common varieties are Nallani, Vazzhukka and Mysore are cultivated under red loamy and clay loamy soils. The majority of farmers follow drip irrigation and few farmers use sprinkler irrigation.\r\nC. Pest Status in the cardamom ecosystem\r\nThe survey results depicted that shoot/capsule borer, Conogethis punctiferalis (Guenee) caused more damage (85.42 %) followed by thrips Sciothrips cardamom (Ramakrishna) (79.85 %), whitefly, Kanakarajiella cardamomi (David and Subramaniam) (43.03 %), hairy caterpillars, Eupterote cardamom (Reng.) (31.85 %), spotted red spider mites, Dolyhotetranychus floridanus (Banks) (19.43 %) and shoot fly, Formosina flaviceps (Mall). similar results were recorded by (Murugan et al., 2017, Vijayan et al., 2018) shown in Fig. 1. In Theni district thrips incidence was high while in Nilgiris and Namakkal incidence of shoot/capsule borer was high. Shoot fly infestation was more in Theni (25%) whereas in Nilgiris and Namakkal infestation was about 16.6 and 18.05 per cent respectively. The various insect pests infesting the cardamom ecosystem are shown in Table 3.\r\nD. Pesticides used in the cardamom ecosystem \r\nSurvey revealed that on an average 19 pesticides are most frequently used by the farmers in the cardamom ecosystem (Table 4). The pesticides include profenophos 50% EC, quinolphos 25% EC, monocrotophos 36% SL, imidacloprid 17.80% SL, cypermethrin 5% EC, lamda cyhalothrin 5% EC, acetamiprid 20% SP, emamectin benzoate 5% SG, chlorantraniliprole 18.50% SC, fipronile 5%SC, flubendiamide 39.35% SC, chloropyriphos 20.00% EC, flonicamid 50.00% WG and spirotetramat 24 % SC. Among the pesticides, profenophos was most commonly used by the farmers (78.5 %) followed by lambda-cyhalothrin 5% EC (65.3 %). Farmers were also used insecticide mixtures like cypermethrin 5% EC + chloropyriphos 50 % EC and acephate 50% WP + buprofezin 20% WP. Shoot and capsule borer consumed more insecticide sprays (Conogethes functiferalis Guen.) followed by thrips (Sciothrips cardamomi Ramk.), leaf feeders and whiteflies (Basilepta fulvicorne Jacoby) in order (Murugan et al., 2014). Cardamom is also attacked by diseases like capsule rots (Azhukal disease) and rhizome rot. To manage these diseases farmers sprayed fungicides like copper oxychloride 50% WP and tebuconazole. Central Insecticide Board and Registration Committee (CIB & RC) approved four insecticides - quinolphos 25% EC, Monocrotophos 36% SL, lambda-cyhalothrinn 4.9% CS and diafenthiuron 50 % WP and two fungicides - copper oxychloride 50% WP and fosetyl-AL 80% WP for management of pest in cardamom. However, the rest of pesticides registered and recommended for the control of pest in other crops.\r\nE. General Awareness on Handling of Pesticides by Farmers\r\nDetailed pesticide usage pattern followed by the cardamom growing farmers depicts (Table 5.) that the majority of the farmers got the source of information on pesticide recommendations from pesticide retail shop (74.4 %) followed by fellow farmers (16 %) and horticulture officer (16 %). (Meenambigai et al., 2017; Prakash et al., 2021; Ramakrishnan et al., 2015; Anjali et al., 2018; Ngowi et al., 2007; Biradar et al., 2021). Earlier reports also shown the similar result on the source of information on pesticide recommendations. Only 25.5 per cent of farmers followed recommended dosage of pesticides and the rest of the farmers don’t have knowledge of the recommended dosage for the cardamom pest management. (Gaikwad et al., 2016; Abunyuwah et al., 2019). While spraying pesticides 78.5 per cent of farmers used bottle caps for measurement of pesticides and most of them (91.7 %) used sticks for mixing pesticides in the spray tank. Based on time of application, 37.5 per cent of farmers spray in the morning and 75 per cent of farmers sprayed in the evening. (Jamali et al., 2014). It is unfortunate to state that 72.2 per cent of farmers are not following safety measures during the handling of pesticides (Devi, 2009; Balasha et al., 2019). Before beginning spraying, 41 per cent of farmers paid attention to the label, 52.5 per cent of farmers sprayed pesticides at fortnight intervals while 79.2 per cent of farmers sprayed pesticides based on pest infestation. The waiting period, which they observed as a pre-harvest gap of seven days, was followed by all farmers. \r\nOnly a few farmers practiced good agricultural practices for disposal of used pesticide containers by burying them in the ground, while the majority of farmers (96.5 %) dumped empty pesticide containers in their own fields or in open space (Ntow et al., 2006; Ali et al., 2022). The present survey concluded that pesticide use and consumption patterns, frequent interventions are required to encourage the safer use of insecticides in the cardamom crop.\r\n','G. Manusha, K. Bhuvaneswari, A. Suganthi and S. Raghul (2022). Survey-Based Study on Farmers Knowledge and Pattern of using Pesticides in Cardamom in Tamil Nadu. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 14(3): 14-20.'),(5195,'134','Efficacy of Bio Pesticides against Castor Semilooper Achaea janata (Lepidoptera: Erebidae)','K. Divija*, M. Anuradha, O. Shaila and V. Divya Rani','84 Efficacy of Bio Pesticides against Castor Semilooper Achaea janata _Lepidoptera Erebidae_ K. Divija.pdf','',1,'Field studies were conducted to evaluate the efficacy of four microbials, two botanicals and one chemical insecticide along with untreated control against castor semilooper in castor hybrid, PCH-111 during Rabi, 2021 at RARS, Palem in RBD replicated thrice. Profenophos 50EC @ 1ml L-1 was found best by showing highest reduction over control of semilooper larvae in both first (82.78%) and second spray (80.68%). Among biopesticides, mortality of the semilooper larvae was high in Btk treated plots as the per cent reduction over control was highest in both first (71.30%) and second spray (69.64%) followed by B. bassiana (63.10% after first spray and 64.12% after second spray). After 10 days of second spray the defoliation by the larvae was observed to be less than 10% in all the treated plots compared to 33.33% in untreated plot. Larval parasitization by S. maculipennis was very high in larvae from azadirachtin (56.67%, 53.33%) and pongamia oil (53.33%, 50.00%) compared to chemical insecticide (16.67%, 13.33%) treated plots in both first and second spray respectively. Because of the high cost of manufacture, low storage stability, susceptibility to environmental conditions, efficacy issues and other factors, the use of bio pesticides is currently limited compared to synthetic chemical pesticides. Some of these issues can be addressed by altering the formulation, which has proven to be effective in boosting and maintaining the activity of various botanicals and microbials. Bio-pesticides clearly have a vital role to play in the development of future integrated pest management strategies.','Castor, Achaea janata, Defoliation, biopesticides, Profenophos, Snellenius maculipennis, Parasitization','Spraying of profenophos was found to be most effective in controlling the castor pests. Among the microbials tested, Btk and B. bassiana are found effective from 5DAS and resulted in appreciable yield over untreated control and M. anisopliae was least effective as compared to other bio pesticides. In case of botanicals, azadirachtin was superior over pongamia oil against the A. janata. Botanicals were least effective to control the pest as compared to microbial pesticides. The results revealed that the bio pesticides has led to least reduction of parasitization by S. maculipennis contrary to the chemical insecticide, they are regarded as safer to the natural enemies. So, based on the efficacy and safety to natural enemies, microbials and azadirachtin can be recommended among which Btk is the best.','INTRODUCTION\r\nCastor (Ricinus communis) is a non-edible oilseed crop of Euphorbiaceae family. The crop is predominantly grown in rainfed areas. India is the world\'s leading producer and exporter of castor beans. According to the government\'s third advance estimates, total castor production in India is 17.74 lakh tonnes in 2020-21.According to the 4th advance estimates of the Telangana State Government, castor productivity is 355 kg ha-1. (www.agri.telangana.gov.in). Excessive damage produced by lepidopteran pests, such as the castor semilooper, Achaea janata (Noctuidae: Lepidoptera), tobacco caterpillar, Spodoptera litura (Noctuidae: Lepidoptera), and capsule borer, Conogethes punctiferalis (Noctuidae: Lepidoptera) is one of the major constraints that limits the castor productivity. Semilooper and tobacco caterpillar are active during the vegetative stage and causes over 50% defoliation. Estimates of seed yield loss range from 35 to 50 percent, depending on the crop\'s growth stage and the insect attack. Natural enemies in the castor ecosystem include the parasitoids, Trichogramma chilonis, Microplitis maculipennis Szepligeti and insect predators such as spiders, and insectivorous birds. One of the methods for controlling the pests is conservation of these natural enemies. Until now, the most common method of controlling these pests is to employ synthetic insecticides. Although they have proven to be effective at reducing pest populations, they have detrimental consequences for the ecosystem and the crops themselves. Snellenius (Microplitis) maculipennis, a semilooper larval parasitoid that parasitizes more than 75% of larvae in the field, is greatly affected by the synthetic insecticides (Basappa and Lingappa 2005). Biopesticides have been proved to be a viable alternative to chemical pesticides. Microbial and botanical insecticides may offer an environmentally beneficial approach to control these insect pests while preserving natural enemies (Vanlaldiki et al., 2013; Dhingra et al., 2012; Lakshminarayana, 2010). \r\nAs a result, research has been carried out with the goal of identifying the most effective biopesticides for controlling defoliators in the castor crop while remaining compatible with natural enemies, as well as determining the economics of various treatments.\r\nMATERIAL AND METHODS\r\nField studies were conducted to evaluate the efficacy of biopesticides and a chemical pesticide against A. janata in castor hybrid PCH-111 during Rabi, 2021 at the research farm of RARS, Palem, PJTSAU, Telanagana. Experiment was laid out in Randomized Block Design (RBD) with eight treatments replicated thrice. Plot size of each treatment is 5m × 7m (35m2) with a spacing of 120cm × 45cm. All the agronomic practices were followed as per the recommendations. Bioefficacy of biopesticides, Beauveria bassiana (2 × 108 CFU g-1) @ 5g l-1, Metarhizium anisopliae (2×108 CFU g-1)@5g l-1 Bacillus thuringiensis.var.kursatki@1g l-1 Metarhizium rileyi (1.5 × 1013 spores ml-1)@5g l-1, Azadirachtin (1500ppm)@5ml l-1, Pongamia oil @ 2 ml l-1 was tested against A. janata in comparison with profenophos 50EC @ 1ml l-1 and untreated control. The treatments were imposed twice with an interval of 10 days during first and third week of December after observing a defoliation of greater than 25%. Observations were recorded on larval population/plant from five randomly selected plants from each replication in each treatment at one day before and 5, 7 and 10 days after spraying. The mean larvae/plant and per cent reduction over control was worked out. The defoliation per cent was recorded as per cent leaf area infested/plant. The per cent parasitization of semilooper larvae by S. maculipennis was also recorded. Results were analyzed by following appropriate statistical methods (RBD) and subjected to ANOVA in simple RBD analysis as per the procedures suggested by Gomez and Gomez (1984). Data on larval population was transformed using √(x+0.5) and percentages were transformed using arcsine transformations by using OPSTAT, Central Agricultural University, Hisar. \r\nRESULTS AND DISCUSSIONS\r\nThe mean semilooper larval population in the plots before and at different intervals after first spray are presented in Table 1. The pre treatment count of the larvae for first spray ranged from 2.33 to 2.87 larvae/plant. A significantly lower infestation of semilooper (0.33 larvae/plant) was recorded in profenophos treated plot after 10 days of first spray. This is in concurrence with the previous reports (Rajabaskar and Regupathy 2013). Higher toxicity of profenophos is due to its ability to inactivate acetylcholine esterase and affecting the pest’s nervous system. Among the biopesticides, the significantly similar Btk and B. bassiana treated plots were found to have a population of 0.67 and 0.80 larvae/plant after 10 days of first spray followed by M. rileyi (1.00 larvae/plant) and M. anisopliae which are on par with each other. The significant effect of entomopathogenic fungi in reducing the larval population superior to botanicals is in line with the work of Vanlaldiki et al. (2013).\r\nThe results from the pooled mean data after spray revealed that among the biopesticides, Btk and B. bassiana were superior by causing 71.30% and 63.10% reduction over control respectively followed by M. rileyi (55.72%) and M. anisopliae (50.80%). Higher larval mortality of A. janata recorded in Bt treated plots is in correspondence with the work of Kulshrestha et al. (1965) who reported 79.9% field mortality of A. janata larvae due to Bt. The botanicals, azadirachtin and pongamia oil caused 40.96% and 34.40% reduction over control respectively. The larvae from the plots treated with azadirachtin showed reduced feeding behavior. This is in agreement with the earlier work of Nath and Singh (2011); Roy and Saraf (2006) done on S. litura. The same trend of efficacy as in first spray was observed in the second spray presented in Table 2. The profenophos completely reduced the population of the semilooper larvae after 10 days of second spray. In biopesticides, the highest per cent reduction over control for second spray was caused by Btk (69.64%), B.bassiana (64.12%) followed by M. rileyi (56.76%) whereas least was due to pongamia oil (33.76%) (Fig. 1). The least efficacy of pongamia oil in the research is in accordance to the research work of Duraimuragan et al. (2015) whereas, Deshmukh and Borle (1976) mentioned that karanja oil has some limits for use at the farmer’s level due to its aqueous nature.\r\nLower defoliation (4.00%) was recorded in profenophos treated plot after 10 days of first spray. In the bio pesticides, Btk and B. bassiana treated plots a defoliation of 5.34% and 7.00% was recorded after 10 days of first spray followed by M. rileyi (9.67%) and M. anisopliae (10.67%) which are on par with each other. The superiority of B. bassiana among the entomopathogens tested reported in the present study also mentioned in the work of Purwar and Sachan (2005). The results from the pooled mean data after first spray revealed that among the bio pesticides, Btk and B. bassiana by causing 74.89% and 66.52% reduction over control respectively in defoliation are considered to be superior followed by M. rileyi (59.08%) and M. anisopliae (54.43%). The botanicals, azadirachtin and pongamia oil caused 46.06% and 39.55% reduction over control in defoliation respectively (Table 3, Fig. 1). The efficacy of the treatments in reducing the defoliation in second spray presented in Table 4 was found to be similar to the first spray. The per cent reduction over control of defoliation in the second spray was higher by profenophos (81.28%) followed by Btk (72.16%), B. bassiana (68.32%) and M. rileyi (60.64%) whereas least was caused by pongamia oil (36.64%) (Table 4, Fig. 2). The level of toxicity of the bio pesticides has decreased with time indicated by the higher efficacy of the pesticides upto 5 days after spraying and gradual decrease from 7 days to 10 days after treatment application in our present study. This is similar to the findings of Vimala Devi et al. (1996) where it was mentioned that the maximum mortality of the larvae was observed at 5 days of treatment.\r\nThe effect of treatments on the larval parasitization by S. maculipennis was observed in the two sprays mentioned in Table 5. It revealed that all the botanicals and microbials were safer to the parasitoid compared to the profenophos. Next to the untreated plots, the larval parasitization was very high in larvae collected from azadirachtin in both first (56.67%) and second spray (53.33%) followed by pongamia oil and M. anisopliae. The parasitization of larvae from chemical insecticide treated plot is 16.67% during first spray and 13.33% during second spray. This indicated the harmful and negative effect of the chemical insecticides and the safety of the bio pesticides towards the natural enemies. This safety of bio pesticides to semilooper larval parasitoid, S. maculipennis over profenophos under field conditions are in consistent with the findings of Basappa and Lingappa (2005). The significant similarity existed between all the microbials and the botanicals were on par with each other.\r\n','K. Divija, M. Anuradha, O. Shaila and V. Divya Rani (2022). Efficacy of Bio Pesticides Against Castor Semilooper Achaea janata (Lepidoptera: Erebidae). Biological Forum – An International Journal, 14(2a): 511-516.'),(5196,'134','Effect of Saline and Sodic Water Irrigation on Physico-Chemical Properties of Inceptisols','P. Dayana Lakshmi*, K. Manikandan, D. Leninraja, M. Joseph and A. Kavitha Pushpam','85 Effect of Saline and Sodic Water Irrigation on Physico-Chemical Properties of Inceptisols P Dayana Lakshmi.pdf','',1,'The impact of saline and sodic water irrigation on the physico-chemical properties of inceptisol was studied at Agricultural College and Research Institute, Killikulam, Tamil Nadu, India during 2022. Pots filled with red soil collected from college farm that belongs to Inceptisols. Talinum fruitcosum was used as test crop for pot experimentation. Saline and sodic water were used in the experiment. Six levels of salinity and nine levels of sodicity were artificially created in irrigation water and used for irrigating soil. Saline and sodic water significantly influenced the soil properties. Increasing salinity and alkalinity increased the salinity and sodicity hazards of soil. ','Saline water, Sodic water, pH, EC','The current investigation found that irrigation with saline and sodic water considerably changed the physico-chemical characteristics of the Inceptisol. Under irrigation with saline water, soil pH marginally dropped as irrigation water salinity increased, but soil pH increased as irrigation water sodicity increased. Both saline and sodic water irrigation enhanced inceptisol\'s electrical conductivity. The amount of EC growth accelerates when irrigation water\'s salinity and sodicity hazards increases. According to the study\'s findings, using saline water that has a larger percentage of soluble calcium together with chloride and sulphate is helpful for lowering soil alkalinity.','INTRODUCTION\r\nSalinity and sodicity is considered as one of the major environmental hazard at global level and it affected as more than 25% of the total land and 33% of the irrigated land (Mohanavelu et al., 2021). In India, 6.73 million ha of land has been degraded due to salinity and sodicity. Approximately 25% of the land world-wide is affected by high salt concentration which renders the land productivity significantly (Bennett 2009; Rengasamy, 2016; Shahid et al., 2018). \r\nPoor quality irrigation water especially salinity and alkalinity are injurious to soil and crop health. Introduction of irrigation is considered as the prime factor for increasing salinity in western parts of India (Singh, 2009). Saline water refers to the concentration of salts in the irrigation water that is sufficiently high to adversely affect crop yield or crop quality. Salty irrigation water usually contains higher salts that accumulate in soil with the progressive application of irrigation water over time and resulting in adverse changes in soil properties (Huang et al., 2011), inhibition of plant growth (Hussain et al., 2015), reduction of yield and decreasing produce quality (Li et al., 2019). Salty water lowers osmotic potential of the soil solution (Manchanda and Garg 2008) and renders the plant ability to absorb water from soil (Rengasamy and Olsson 1993). The higher concentrations of specific ions (Cl, Na, CO3, HCO3, etc.) injure the crop (Lauchli and Epstein 1990) resulting in reduction of plant growth and yield. \r\nSodicity, on the other hand, is related to the higher proportion of Na in the irrigation water in comparison to calcium and magnesium. Sodic water contributes to the deterioration of soil physical properties (Choudhary and Mavi 2019), which can indirectly affect plants via crusting (Sumner et al., 1998), reduced infiltration (Kaur et al., 2008), increased soil strength (Peng et al., 2005), and reduced aeration (De Pascale and Barbieri 1995). Irrigation with sodic waters having higher carbonates and bicarbonates, leads to increase in soil pH and sodium (Na) saturation of soils, aeration and permeability problems due to clay dispersion, crusting, and clay migration leading to clogging of pores (Grattan and Oster 2003; Levy et al., 2003; Oster, 2004) thereby adversely affecting crop productivity (Josan et al., 1998; Choudhary et al., 2004, 2006; Sharma and Minhas 2005; Minhas et al., 2007). \r\nMATERIALS AND METHODS\r\nThe study was conducted at Agricultural College and Research Institute, Killikulam, Tamil Nadu, India during 2022 with the goal of assessing the effect of saline and sodic water on the physico-chemical properties of Inceptisol. The experiment was conducted in pot filled with red soil by adopting completely randomized block design. Two types of water viz., saline and sodic water with varying level of intensity were used for irrigation. Six levels of salinity viz., EC value of < 1, 2, 4, 6, 8 and 10 dS m-1 were artificially created by adding salts and utilised for irrigation, separately. EC of the irrigation water is artificially stimulated by considering the relationship between EC and total dissolved salt i.e., TDS (mg/L) = EC × 640. Salt mixture of CaCl2-MgCl2-NaCl in the proportion of 4:2:1 was utilized for preparing saline water of desirable EC.\r\nSodic water with eight levels of soluble sodium percentage (SSP; < 10, 20, 30, 40, 50, 60, 70 and 80) was artificially established using sodium carbonate in consideration with the initial sodium content in the irrigation water. Bore well water is considered as control for both salinity and sodicity as it has an EC and SSP values of < 1 dS/m and < 10, respectively. The treatment details were T1 - EC <1 dS m-1 & SSP<10; T2 - EC 2 dS m-1; T3- EC 4 dS m-1; T4- EC 6 dS m-1; T5- EC 8 dS m-1; T6 - EC 10 dS m-1; T7 - SSP 20; T8 - SSP 30; T9 - SSP 40; T10 - SSP 50; T11 - SSP 60; T12 - SSP 70; T13 - SSP 80.\r\nRed soil (Inceptisol) was collected from the B block of Agricultural College and Research Institute, Killikulam. The bulk soil was collected and the pots were filled equally with 12 kg soil and the initial characteristics of collected soil were mentioned in Table 1.\r\nStatistical analysis. The data collected from the pot experiment were subjected to statistical analysis based on one way analysis of variance (ANOVA) and least square significance test for p < 0.05 was studied. The statistical analysis was carried out using AGRES software version 7.0.\r\nRESULT AND DISCUSSION\r\nPhysico-chemical characteristics of soil. The physico-chemical properties of Inceptisol differed significantly under the influence of saline and sodic water irrigation.\r\n(a) pH. Soil properties were significantly altered by the added irrigation water (Fig. 1). Saline water irrigation decreased the soil reaction slightly. Irrigation with saline water having EC of 10 dS/m resulted in the decreased soil reaction (pH 7.03) to the tune of 0.17 unit compared to control (pH 7.20). The proportion of soluble ions determines the direction of pH change with the addition of saline irrigation. The predominance of soluble calcium in association with chloride and sulphate decreases the soil pH (Tavakkoli et al., 2015; Al-Busaidi and Cookson 2003). Similar negative relationship between salinity and pH was reported by Choudhary et al. (2004).\r\nSodic water considerably increased the soil reaction compared to saline water irrigation. Increasing sodicity hazard in terms of increasing SSP sequentially increased the soil pH and the highest pH of 8.07 was observed in soils irrigated with water having SSP of 80 (T13) and the lowest pH value of 7.20was noticed in soils irrigated with water having SSP of < 10 (T1; Table 2). The carbonate and bicarbonate ions dissociation from the sodic water (de Andrade et al., 2018) might be prime reason for the increasing soil pH. Increasing sodicity hazard in irrigation water positively increases the soil pH significantly (Yaduvanshi and Sharma 2008).\r\n(b) Electrical Conductivity. EC of neutral soil significantly increased with increased irrigation with saline and sodic water (Fig. 2). The soils irrigated with water having EC < 1dS/m (T1) observed for the lowest EC value of 0.16dS/m, while the maximum EC of 0.27 dS/m was detected in soils irrigated with water having EC of 10 dS/m (T6). The soils irrigated with SSP 80 (T13) had the greatest EC value of 0.44, while the lowest EC value of 0.20 was detected in soils irrigated with SSP 20 (T7). Saline water significantly increased the electrical conductivity of the soil (Ahmed et al., 2010) owing to the addition of soluble salts both cations (Ghallab and Usman 2007) and anions (Ragab et al., 2008) by the salty irrigation water (Doneen, 1954).\r\n \r\n','P. Dayana Lakshmi, K. Manikandan, D. Leninraja, M. Joseph and A. Kavitha Pushpam (2022). Effect of Saline and Sodic Water Irrigation on Physico-Chemical Properties of Inceptisols. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 14(2a): 517-520.'),(5197,'136','Evaluation of Carrier Materials for the Development of \r\nActinoalloteichus cyanogriseus Bio-formulation with better Shelf-life\r\n','L. Suresh, K. Angappan*, M. Saratha, G. Thiribhuvanamala and S. Marimuthu','4 Evaluation of carrier materials for the development of K. Angappan.pdf','',1,'Unlike other diseases of crops, biocontrol agents could provide better control of soil borne diseases than chemicals. One of the constraints in employing the biocontrol agent is their shelf-life of the product. For the better shelf-life of bioformulations, best compatible carrier has to be identified and utilized for formulation development. In this study physico-chemical properties of four carrier materials and their effect on black gram seed germination, seedling vigour were analysed. In addition, the carrier materials viz., rice husk ash, saw dust, rice husk and talc were used to study the shelf-life of the potential antagonistic actinobacterial strain Actinoalloteichus cyanogriseus at 30 days interval up to 150 days. Among all, rice husk ash (RHA) showed better physico-chemical properties and maintained higher colony count (95 × 107 CFU) even after 150 days. Also, the seeds treated with RHA showed the higher germination percentage (94% and 90%) and seedling vigour (2705 and 1823) in the roll towel and protray studies, respectively. ','Carrier material, seedling vigour, actinobacteria, shelf-life','Among the carrier materials tested rice husk ash enhanced the biometric parameters of black gram seedlings and the shelf-life of antagonistic actinobacterial strain. It had better physico-chemical properties especially WHC and the seeds treated with rice husk ash in the roll towel method and protray studies showed the higher germination percentage and seedling vigour. RHA maintained higher population of M12 strain even after 150 days and found as suitable carrier.','INTRODUCTION\r\nThe chemical method of plant disease management is widely adopted across the world, because it provided better results in short term. But due to the residual effect of chemicals in both soil and plant, it caused more ecological problem and health hazards to humans (Pandya et al., 2011). Soil borne pathogens have wide range of hosts and survive in soil for many years by resisting the adverse climatic conditions, fungicidal effect, etc. with the help of resting structures. Moreover, the chemical method achieved only certain degree of control against soil-borne pathogens, hence the biological method has been preferred now-a-days (Amin et al., 2010). Biological method of combating plant diseases using antagonistic organisms provided a powerful and eco-friendly alternative instead of using synthetic chemicals (Emmert and Handelsman 1999). \r\nActinobacteria considered as an important source of many known antibiotics, secondary metabolites and reported as potential agent for managing many phytopathogens under in vitro condition (Khanna et al., 2011) and most of them could not be effectively employed under field condition due to lacuna in bioformulation development. However, any good bioformulation must be easy for handling, transport, shelf life, storage and application to the target site (Gopalakrishnan et al., 2016). The efficacy and shelf-life of these antagonistic microorganism based bioformulations are largely depending on various factors such as carrier material, storage conditions etc. The selection of carrier material should focus on improving the shelf-life of biocontrol agent and retaining their antagonistic activity for longer time. They should provide suitable micro environment to prevent sudden decline of microbial population. Carrier materials normally used were talc, peat, farm yard manure, vermicompost, lignite, compost and bagasse (Kumar, 2014). One of the delivery methods of bioformulation to combat soil-borne pathogens is seed treatment, therefore the carrier material should support both the microorganism and seed germination. \r\nMATERIALS AND METHODS\r\nBiocontrol agent. Actinobacterial strain Actinoalloteichus cyanogriseus - M12 has been obtained from the Microbial Type Culture collection, Department of Plant Pathology, TNAU, Coimbatore and maintained in Starch Casein Agar (SCA) at 30 ± 2 ˚C.\r\nCarrier materials. Carrier materials used viz., rice husk (RH), rice husk ash (RHA), saw dust (SR), talc (T) were procured from different sources. Physico-chemical characteristics of the carriers like pH, particle size, colour, organic matter, water holding capacity (WHC) were analysed (Jayasudha et al., 2017; Nelson et al., 1974; Hariz et al., 2015).\r\nEffect of carrier material on seed germination. To analyse the effect of carrier material on seed germination, black gram seeds (VBN 8) were used. Seeds were evenly coated with carrier materials viz., rice husk (RH), rice husk ash (RHA), saw dust (SD), talc (T) @10 g per kg of seeds using the binding agent carboxy methyl cellulose (CMC @ 10g per kg of carrier material). Germination test was carried out using roll towel method (ISTA, 1993) and also in the protray (Desai et al., 2020).\r\nRoll towel studies. Black gram seeds coated with different carrier materials was placed on the germination paper (25 seeds/ paper) with four replications. Rolled germination paper was kept in standing position with the seeds at topside in a beaker. Beaker was half-filled with water and covered by polythene sheet to avoid drying. After incubation for seven days at 28˚C germination paper was unrolled to calculate germination per cent and seedling vigour (Jambhulkar et al., 2013). The germination per cent and seedling vigour were calculated using the formula.\r\nGermination percentage = \r\nSeedling vigour = (shoot length + root length) × Germination %\r\nProtray studies. Black gram seeds coated with different carrier materials were sown in sterilized soil at the rate of one seed/ well (4.5 cm × 4.5 cm × 4 cm) in a protray. For each treatment, four replications were maintained with 10 seeds/ replication in protrays at glass house condition. Germination per cent and seedling vigour were measured at 7th and 14th day after sowing (DAS) respectively using the above formula.\r\nBioformulation preparation. A. cyanogriseus M12 strain was grown in Starch Caesin Broth (SCB) for 14 days at 30±2˚ C. The broth containing more than 50 × 107 CFU/ ml was used for bioformulation preparation using different carriers. For 100 g of carrier material 40 ml of broth, 1g of CMC was added. It was packed in polythene bag with moisture content less than 20 % and stored at room temperature (28±2˚ C) for shelf-life studies (Vidhyasekaran and Muthamilan 1999).\r\nShelf-life estimation. Shelf-life was estimated using serial dilution and pour plate technique (Patil et al., 2021). One gram of bioformulation was added to 10 ml of sterilized distilled water (10-1 dilution), vigorously mixed and serially diluted up to 10-8 dilution. From this, 1 ml of suspension was added to Petri dish, 15 ml of SCA medium poured over. Replicated thrice and incubated at 30 ± 2 ˚C for 14 days. The number of colonies were counted and the procedure was repeated at 30 days interval up to 150 days. Fresh sample was drawn each time and analysed (Jayasudha et al., 2017).\r\nRESULTS AND DISCUSSION\r\nThe potential antagonistic Actinoalloteichus cyanogriseus M12 strain used was isolated from mulberry plants, and found to be effective against pathogens like Macrophomina phaseolina, Lasiodiplodia theobromae, Athelia rolfsii, Fusarium sp and Rhizoctonia solani (Saratha et al., 2022). \r\nAgricultural by-products are available in huge quantities at low cost and now, these were utilized for promoting soil and plant health. The physico-chemical characters analysed (Table 1) for different carrier materials showed that SD and RHA had higher water holding capacity. These agro industry wastes have good organic matter content than conventionally used inert talc carrier material. Sarin and Riddech (2018) also studied the effect of various agricultural residues viz., rice husk ash, rice straw, cane leaves, coconut fibre as carriers for bio-fertilizer production and tomato growth promotion. Among the seeds treated with different carrier materials in the roll towel and protray studies, rice husk ash (RHA) showed higher germination (94 % and 90 %) on par with saw dust (92 % and 90 %) (Table 2 & 3).\r\n \r\nHowever, RHA showed significantly higher seedling vigour (2705 and 1823) in both tests. Comparatively, control seeds showed lower germination of 86 per cent in roll towel and 60 per cent in protray. Similarly, in case of seedling vigour, control showed lowest value in both roll towel (2389) and protray (507). The above results showed that RHA treated seeds had increased germination per cent and seedling vigour of black gram seeds by 9.3% and 48.4% respectively was corroborated with previous report by Lu et al. (2015). They reported that tomato seeds treated with nano silica powder prepared from RHA showed 22 per cent increase in germination and 92 per cent vigour index over control. \r\nPresetya et al. (2018) reported that higher silica content (90%) in RHA helped in maintaining moisture in the seeds which could enable higher germination of black gram seeds. Similar results were reported by Tsakaldimi (2006) that addition of RHA with peat to the growth medium, Pinus halepensis showed higher shoot length and dry weight than control growth medium. Rice husk ash increased resistance to paddy against Xanthomonas oryzae pv. oryzae and showed significant difference in plant height, improved photosynthesis. Due to presence of silica in RHA, it alleviated water stress, salinity stress, nutrient deficiency and improved erectness of leaves, there by increased rice yield and mitigated abiotic stress (Medrano et al., 2021). Rice husk ash application improved the yield of wheat about 24 % in mean grain yield. \r\nThe shelf-life studies showed M12 strain found to have longer survival ability (Table 4) in almost all carriers used. However, among four carrier materials tested, RHA had significantly better results for shelf-life and maintained higher colony count (95 × 107 CFU g-1) even after 5 months (Table 4). RHA found to have suitable properties for growth of antagonistic M12 strain like alkaline pH, with minerals and nutrients (Table 1). Previously, Saratha et al. (2022) found that M12 strain could survive at wide temperature and pH range. Durham and Simonton (1985) reported pH of RHA was about 8.4 and had high silica content, supported the better survival of actinobacteria.\r\nSimilar results were reported by Sarin and Riddech (2018) that RHA as best carrier, which showed the highest growth and survival of rhizobacteria at wide temperature regions (30- 50˚C), maximum number of rhizobacteria colonies was recorded (109 –1010 CFU g-1) on 15th day of incubation at 30˚C. They also mentioned RHA as suitable for microbial immobilization and tomato growth promotion. Silica content in rice husk ash was used by actinobacteria for their growth (Mezan et al., 2020). Ratna et al. (1996) reported that RHA increased the soil microbial activity.\r\n','L. Suresh, K. Angappan, M. Saratha, G. Thiribhuvanamala and S. Marimuthu (2022). Evaluation of carrier materials for the development of Actinoalloteichus cyanogriseus bio-formulation with better shelf-life. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 14(3): 21-25.'),(5198,'134','Estimation of Price Cointegration across Major Potato Markets of India – An Application of the Vector Error Correction Model','Divyacrotu Majumder*, S. Selvam, T. Samsai and S. Gurunathan','86 Estimation of Price Cointegration across Major Potato Markets of India – An Application of the Vector Error Correction Model Divyacrotu Majumder.pdf','',1,'The present study analyzed the price cointegration between Delhi, Agra, Ahmedabad, Indore, Patna, Kolkata, Burdwan, Coochbehar, Guwahati and Chennai potato markets from January 2015 to December 2021. To identify the presence of long run cointegrating relationship the Johansen cointegration methodology was used. It was found that long-run equilibrium existed between the prices of the selected markets. The short-run price movements were identified through the Vector Error Correction Model (VECM) which revealed that Agra market was the quickest to reestablish equilibrium after any price shock, followed by Burdwan, Chennai and Coochbehar markets. Delhi, Chennai and Coochbehar markets on the other hand were found to be the more efficient in transferring price signals. It was concluded that any relevant policy initiative administered through these markets would perform better in the long run. Also, any effort to influence the price of potato artificially would be void due to the high degree of long run price cointegration across the country. There were evidences of inter-state price transmissions between potato wholesale markets which would also help formulate effective price policies.','Cointegration, Vector Error Correction Model, Potato, Price linkage, VECM, Market integration','In India, Potato is a political commodity and it is known for high price volatility which seriously affects the profitability of the farmers. This study was conducted to better understand the price relationship amongst selected key potato markets in the country. The empirical results of the study reported that there was cointegration in the weekly prices that concluded a high degree of market integration in major Potato markets. This is consistent with the view that Potato markets in India are quite competitive. Hence, any effort to artificially influence the price would be void in the long run. In the short run, there were deviations from the equilibrium which are corrected at various speeds denoted by the error correction terms (ECTs). Agra and Burdwan markets were quicker to return to long-run equilibria from short-run deviations because of the higher speed of adjustments. Coochbehar, Chennai and Delhi markets are cointegrated with more markets leading to the conclusion that these markets were more efficient in transferring price signals. Guwahati market was influenced by Coochbehar, Burdwan and Patna markets, exhibiting a significant case of inter-state potato price linkage. The study concluded that policies regarding potato marketing administered in West Bengal may have a significant effect on Assam state’s potato price after a lag period of two weeks. Results of this study recommended that any policy initiatives on potato-related infrastructure like cold storage, value addition and food parks etc be implemented through these markets to be more effective on a larger scale. Developing a robust potato price information dissemination system using the core principle of cointegration analysis with forecasting methods was found to be effective in short-run price fluctuations in these potato markets.','INTRODUCTION\r\nThe unprecedented population pressure and the associated demand for food pose a challenge to today’s food systems globally. FAO forecasts 70% more demand for food in view of global population growth up to 9.7 billion people by the year 2050 (FAO et al., 2017). Potato emerges as a promising crop to feed this expanded population sustainably and nutritiously while also providing livelihood to farmers across the globe. The production of potato is highly climate-specific and is concentrated in the temperate regions of the northern hemisphere of the globe (Devaux et al., 2020). China and India have experienced a steady, almost linear growth in potato production over the last 50 years (Devaux et al., 2020). India has produced over fifty-four million metric tons of potato in 2020-2021, the bulk of the production is concentrated in northern India wherein the states Uttar Pradesh and Gujrat stand highest in area and productivity respectively, West Bengal being a close second in both the parameters (Agricultural statistics at a glance, 2021).\r\nFresh potato is a thinly traded commodity in global markets and is absent in major international commodity exchanges. It is therefore subject to less price volatility on a global scale (FAO, 2009). However, the price of potato is far more volatile on a national scale as a result of production uncertainties and demand shifts (Katoch and Singh 2020). Recently, horizontal and vertical price linkages are important areas of research in the food markets. The extent to which a price shock at one market/level of value chain affects a price in other markets/value chain level provides an assessment of the functioning of markets. The number of studies on horizontal price linkages in the food markets in the developed world has increased recently; however, it is hard to find studies on how the price transmission mechanism takes place in potato vegetable markets in developing countries. Hence this paper attempts to assess the price transmission mechanism of spatially separated wholesale potato markets in India. Results of this study will assist producers and consumers to realize the gains from long-term comparative advantage and also help governments in developing trade policy.\r\nMATERIAL AND METHOD\r\nGiven two or more series are non-stationary at level, if there exists a stationary linear combination between them, the series are called cointegrated (Gujarati, 2012). To estimate the market integration through price transmission, this study uses the weekly wholesale price data from 2015 to 2021 of potato markets. The selection of the market was based on three factorsi) production catchments of potato (area in hectare) ii) unique market profile characteristics (number of sellers concentration) and iii) non-stationarity of price series. Based on these factors, ten major markets were selected for investigation, i.e., Agra (Uttar Pradesh), Ahmedabad (Gujarat), Chennai (Tamil Nadu), Delhi, Guwahati (Assam), Indore (Madhya Pradesh), Kolkata, Burdwan, Coochbehar (West Bengal) and Patna (Bihar). The time series weekly wholesale price data were collected from the market database of the National Horticultural Research and Development Foundation (NHRDF) pertaining to the year 2015 to 2021. The weekly price data for the selected markets is depicted in the form of a line-graph in Fig 1 for better visual representation.\r\nTest for unit root. A time series is called stationary when the mean and variance of the series are time-invariant and the autocorrelation is a function of the distance between two time periods and not the actual periods concerned (Gujarati, 2012). Any cointegration test assumes the non-stationarity of time series. Hence, it is instrumental to check for a unit root in level and the first difference before we can proceed further. For this, this study employed the Phillips Perron test (PP test) for stationarity due to its non-parametric estimation and does not require specifying the level of serial correlation as in ADF.\r\nJohansen test. The cointegration test is based on the truism that for two or more series to be non-stationary, they must possess the same intertemporal characteristics. In this analysis, the Johansen, Juselius Maximum Likelihood method was employed due to its simultaneously handling multiple series while other methods such as Engle-Granger are objectively bi-variate models. It also addresses the endogeneity and simultaneity problems better than a bi-variate framework (Johansen and Juselius, 1990).\r\nVector Error Correction Model (VECM)\r\nThe Johansen cointegration model indicates any long-run relationship between the time series. From the perspective of policy prescription, short-run price linkages between markets are as important as the long-run relationships. Having established a long-run relationship, it is also of critical importance to observe the short-run behaviour of the series concerned, as they drift apart and recalibrate to the long-run equilibrium. The speed of this adjustment has serious implications on the level of efficiency and information mobility across markets. For these reasons, Vector Error Correction Model was built on the data. The short-run cointegrating equations for each cointegrating relationship pertain to the general form of-\r\nWhere ECT is the error correction term and Y, X and R, are cointegrated time series variables of different periods indicated by their suffixes. λ is the error correction coefficient that measures the speed of adjustment. Negative and significant values of λ indicate the speed of restoring previous equilibrium while zero or positive values of the term indicated explosive or divergent behaviour from the equilibrium (Saxena and Chand 2017).\r\nRESULT AND DISCUSSION\r\nResults of the unit root test. Phillips Perron test was performed for the presence of unit root at level and first difference. The PP test is built upon the alternative hypothesis of stationarity. Thus, any p-value less than 0.05 signifies a stationary series. The results of the PP test are presented in Table 1. From the results, it was inferred that all the selected series are integrated of degree one.\r\nJohansen Cointegration test results. To determine the number of cointegrating equations in the data, the Johansen cointegration test was employed through trace statistics and the maximum eigenvalue method. Johansen\'s cointegration methodology is based on the sequencing of the tests to determine the rank of the matrix formulated on a group of non-stationary series. The null hypothesis of at most r cointegrating vectors with an alternative hypothesis of (r +1) cointegrating vectors are tested at each stage starting with r = 0.\r\nFrom Table 2 it was depicted that the trace statistics associated with the null hypothesis r = 0, r ≤ 1, and r ≤ 2 are higher than the corresponding 5% critical values leading to the conclusion that there are four cointegrating relationships between the variables concerned.\r\nTable 3 depicted the results of the maximum eigenvalue rank test of the Johansen cointegration method and indicated that there are three cointegrating vectors based on the MacKinnon-Haug-Michelis p-values obtained for the test statistic.\r\nThe trace test and the maximum eigenvalue test conclude different results. It is to note that both the tests are likelihood-ratio type tests but they employ different assumptions for the deterministic part of the data generating process (DGP). Hubrich et al., have noted that the trace test tends to exhibit more distorted sizes compared to the other (Hubrich et al., 2001). Lütkepohl et al. (2004) have suggested the use of the trace test over the maximum eigenvalue test in a small sample simulation. Accordingly, this study concluded that among the selected series there are four cointegrating equations and this leads to the conclusion of stable price cointegration across the selected potato markets in the long run.\r\nVector Error Correction Model (VECM). The VECM model was built to analyze the short-run behaviour of the selected potato markets concerned with ensuring the presence of long-run cointegration. The results of this model are presented in Table 4 wherein the error correction terms and coefficients of cointegrating equations along with corresponding standard errors and t-statistics are provided.\r\nThe concerned discussion is divided into two parts. The first part discussed the error correction term which revealed the speed of adjustment from short-run deviations. Later we formed the short-run cointegrating equations under VECM framework for each market. This illustrated the cointegration and price transmission across the selected markets.\r\nThe error correction term. The Error Correction Term (ECT) for Agra, Burdwan, Coochbehar, Chennai and Patna are all negative and significant, which indicates that the series will return to its previous long-run equilibrium. The coefficient of the error correction term, which signifies the speed of adjustment, was highest in Agra and Burdwan markets, respectively 15.9% and 15.37% followed by Chennai and Coochbehar and Patna markets at 14.37%, 13.07% and 9% respectively.\r\nShort-run cointegrating equations \r\nAgra Market. The current week’s price of Agra market was influenced by one and two weeks lagged price of its own, of Ahmedabad market as well as of Coochbehar market and Kolkata market’s weekly price from two weeks ago. The concerned short-run equation under the VECM framework was-\r\nΔ〖AGRA〗_t= -0.15 〖ECT〗_(t-1)+0.25〖AGRA〗_(t-1)-0.01〖AGRA〗_(t-2)+0.05〖AHMEDABAD〗_(t-1)+0.05〖AHMEDABAD〗_(t-2)+0.2〖COOCHBEHAR〗_(t-1)-0.09〖COOCHBEHAR〗_(t-2)-0.1〖KOLKATA〗_(t-2)\r\nAhmedabad market. The current weekly price of the Ahmedabad market was influenced by one week lagged price of itself, the one and two-week lagged price of the Kolkata market and one week lagged price of the Patna market. The concerned short-run equation under the VECM framework was-\r\nΔ〖AHMEDABAD〗_t =-0.32〖AHMEDABAD〗_(t-1)+0.31〖KOLKATA〗_(t-1)+0.24〖KOLKATA〗_(t-2)+0.22〖PAT〗_(t-1)\r\nBurdwan Market. Current potato weekly price in Burdwan market was influenced by one week lagged price of Guwahati market, one and two weeks lagged price of Indore market and two weeks lagged price of Kolkata market. The market showed a high exogenous influence on the determination of price as it consists of no lagged values of its own as an explanatory variable. The concerned short-run equation under the VECM framework was-\r\nΔ〖BURDWAN〗_t=-0.15〖ECT〗_(t-1)+0.17〖GUWAHATI〗_(t-2)-0.15〖INDORE〗_(t-1)-0.12〖KOLKATA〗_(t-2)\r\nCoochbehar Market. Current weekly potato price in Coochbehar market was influenced by both one and two weeks lagged price of itself, one week lagged price of Agra market, two weeks lagged price of Ahmedabad market, two weeks lagged price of Guwahati market and both one and two weeks lagged price of Patna market. It is to note that the Coochbehar market was cointegrated with 4 other markets which proved it to be more effective and wider in range for price signal transmissions. The concerned short-run equation under the VECM framework was-\r\nΔCOOCHBEHAR = -0.13〖ECT〗_(t-1)+0.22〖AGRA〗_(t-1)+0.07〖AHMEDABAD〗_(t-2)+0.19〖COOCHBEHAR〗_(t-1)-0.16〖COOCHBEHAR〗_(t-2)+0.15〖GUWAHATI〗_(t-2)+0.13〖PATNA〗_(t-1)-0.19〖PATNA〗_(t-2)\r\nChennai market. Current potato weekly price in Chennai market was influenced by two weeks lagged weekly price of Agra market, two weeks lagged weekly price of Burdwan market, two weeks lagged weekly price of Delhi market, and both one and two weeks lagged weekly price of Kolkata market. Here also we can observe an exogenous influence on price determination. Another observation was that three out of four markets which significantly affect the price in the Chennai market appear in two weeks\' lagged price and leading to the conclusion of slower price transmission across the selected markets. The concerned short-run equation under the VECM framework was-\r\nΔ〖CHENNAI〗_t= -0.14〖ECT〗_(t-1)+0.23〖AGRA〗_(t-1)+0.18〖BURDWAN〗_(t-2)-0.13〖DELHI〗_(t-2)-0.27〖KOLKATA〗_(t-1)-0.23〖KOLKATA〗_(t-2)\r\nDelhi market. Current potato weekly price in Delhi market was influenced by one week lagged price of itself, one week lagged price of Agra market, both one and two weeks lagged price of Coochbehar market, one week lagged price of Indore market and two weeks lagged price of Patna market. The concerned short-run equation under the VECM framework was-\r\nΔ〖DELHI〗_t=0.5〖AGRA〗_(t-1)+0.2〖COOCHBEHAR〗_(t-1)-0.14〖COOCHBEHAR〗_(t-2)-0.17〖DELHI〗_(t-1)+0.18〖INDORE〗_(t-1)-0.17〖PATNA〗_(t-2)\r\nGuwahati market. The current potato weekly price of Guwahati market was influenced by one week lagged price of Burdwan market, two weeks lagged price of Coochbehar market and the one-week lagged price of Patna market. The concerned short-run equation under the VECM framework was-\r\nΔ〖GUWAHATI〗_t=0.8〖BURDWAN〗_(t-2)+0.9〖COOCHBEHAR〗_(t-2)+0.12〖PATNA〗_(t-1)\r\nIndore market. The current potato weekly price of Indore market was influenced by one week lagged price of Burdwan market, two weeks lagged price of Delhi market and the one-week lagged price of Patna market. We can observe a high exogenous influence overall on the price determination. The concerned short-run equation under the VECM framework was-\r\nΔ〖INDORE〗_t= 0.13〖BURDWAN〗_(t-1)-0.9〖DELHI〗_(t-2)+0.17〖PATNA〗_(t-1)\r\nKolkata market. The current potato weekly price of the Kolkata market was significantly influenced by one week lagged price of Agra market, both one and two weeks lagged prices of Burdwan market and two weeks lagged prices of Guwahati market. Here also we can observe a high exogenous influence overall on the price determination. The concerned short-run equation under the VECM framework was-\r\nΔ〖KOLKATA〗_t=0.12〖AGRA〗_(t-1)+0.13〖BURDWAN〗_(t-1)+0.15〖BURDWAN〗_(t-2)+0.16〖GUWAHATI〗_(t-2)\r\nPatna market. The current potato weekly price of the Patna market was significantly influenced by one week lagged price of itself only which was indicative of both the strongest endogeneity in the price determination among the selected markets and weak cointegration with other markets in the short run. It also indicates that any short-run price shock was absorbed by the market which is indicative of a flexible supply mechanism. The concerned short-run equation under the VECM framework was-\r\nΔ〖PATNA〗_t=-0.09〖ECT〗_(t-1)-0.14〖PATNA〗_(t-1)\r\nwe enumerate the mutual effects amongst the selected markets in Table 5.\r\n','Divyacrotu Majumder, S. Selvam, T. Samsai and S. Gurunathan (2022). Estimation of Price Cointegration Across Major Potato Markets of India – An Application of the Vector Error Correction Model. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 14(2a): 521-527.'),(5199,'134','Comparing the Efficiency of Field and Glass House Screening Techniques for Promotion of Sorghum Downy Mildew Infection in Maize','S. Arulselvi* and B. Selvi','87 Comparing the Efficiency of Field and Glass House Screening Techniques for Promotion of Sorghum Downy Mildew Infection in Maize S. Arulselvi.pdf','',1,'Sorghum Downy Mildew (SDM) is one of the most devastating diseases affecting maize which causes yield losses even up to 100 per cent under favourable disease epiphytotic conditions. A sound screening method is essential to identify the resistant sources which constitutes the first step in any plant breeding programme. In the present investigation, field and glass house screening techniques were compared for promotion of SDM infection in maize. Level of infection recorded in glass house trial was slightly higher than recorded in sick plot trials. Hence, screening of maize genotypes under glass house against SDM infection was found to be the most efficient technique in inducing severe SDM infection in maize. The highly susceptible sorghum genotype, DMS 652 showed resistance in response to SDM both in sick plot and glass house trials which indicated the prevalence of maize race in maize sick plot which is one of the races of P. sorghi. Of nine maize inbred lines, UMI 936(w) was highly resistant to infection by SDM pathogen followed by UMI 102 and UMI 285. These inbreds can be used in future for crop improvement programme to evolve a SDM resistant composites and hybrids.','Maize, Sorghum Downy Mildew, Screening methods, resistance','-','INTRODUCTION\r\nMaize is one of the four prime crops of the world. It is mainly utilized as food in the developing countries and as livestock feed in the developed countries. Because of its’ utilization for variety of value-added products maize becomes an important crop in recent years. However, increasing incidence of pest and diseases is one of the main factors limiting productivity in maize. Of these, Sorghum Downy Mildew (SDM) caused by Peronosclerospora sorghi is one of the most devastating diseases and has the ability for epiphytotics on susceptible genotypes under favorable environmental conditions. Although P. sorghi usually infects both maize and sorghum (named as the sorghum strain), there are some strains that infect only maize (named as the maize strain) (Bock et al., 2000). The effective and cheapest method of controlling SDM disease is the development of resistant varieties / hybrids in maize. In any breeding programme for disease resistance, the initial step is to screen all the available germplasm against disease pathogen. Anahosur and Hegde (1979) compared the five different techniques for screening sorghum genotypes against SDM in the field and revealed that ‘Infector row’ planting was the most reliable technique for assured screening. Schmitt and Freytag (1974) also reported that conidial spray inoculation at seedling stage was most efficient in inducing severe downy mildew infection in corn and sorghum. Narayana and his coworkers (1995) compared six inoculation techniques for artificial promotion of SDM in green house for screening sorghum genotypes. Among the six inoculation method evaluated in the green house they obtained maximum downy mildew incidence of 100 percent when seedlings at the first leaf stage were spray-inoculated. Cardwell et al. (1997 & 2006) have developed ‘Direct seed inoculation’ method for screening maize genotypes against SDM and they identified direct inoculation of pre-germinated seeds of spreader rows as a consistent method in promoting SDM infection in susceptible maize lines. A sound screening technique forms the platform for identification of resistant sources for disease resistance breeding programme. Therefore, an attempt was made to compare field and glass house screening techniques for promotion of sorghum downy mildew infection in maize and also to identify the strain of P. sorghi prevailing in sickplot of Department of Millets, TNAU, Coimbatore based on pathogenicity to sorghum and maize. \r\n \r\n\r\n\r\nMATERIALS AND METHODS\r\nThe maize genotypes selected for the present research programme consisted of nine maize inbred lines maintained by sib mating at Maize unit, Department of Millets, Centre for Plant Breeding and Genetics, Tamil Nadu Agricultural University, Coimbatore. SDM disease susceptible checks viz, CM 500 (maize genotype) and DMS 652 (sorghum genotype) are also included for pathogenicity test. The source and details of the maize inbred lines are given in Table 1.\r\n \r\nScreening of maize genotypes against SDM. Nine maize inbred lines were screened against SDM infection during September, 2005 and September, 2006 in the sick plot by spreader row technique and also in the glass house by seedling spray inoculation technique during February, 2007. The procedures adopted for the above two screening methods are as follows.\r\nSpreader row technique followed in the sick plot for screening maize genotypes against SDM. Disease screening against SDM was carried out during September to November, 2005 and 2006 by taking advantage of monsoon season, which was conducive for pathogen development. Artificial epiphytotic conditions were created by planting spreader rows of a susceptible maize genotype, CM500 (Shetty and Ahmand, 1980; Krishnappa et al., 1995; Setty et al., 2001; George et al., 2003; Nair et al., 2004; Yen et al., 2004; Nair et al., 2005; Nagabhushan et al., 2014) 30 days prior to sowing of test entries. Spreader row technique (Craig et al., 1977) was followed for screening the maize inbred lines against SDM in the field.\r\nSick plot has been maintained in New Area, Department of Millets, Centre for Plant Breeding and Genetics, Tamil Nadu Agricultural University, Coimbatore. Every year mono-cropping of downy mildew susceptible maize entries would be followed in the sick plot and at the end of growing season, infected leaf debris containing oospores of P. sorghi would be incorporated in the soil by ploughing. This regular operation would increase the oospore content of the soil. In sick plot, ridges were formed in 3m length with 60cm space between ridges. The seeds of highly susceptible maize inbred line (CM500) were sown in sick plot in every 6th row leaving 5 rows in between in order to accommodate test entries 30 days later and also on all the four sides of sick plot in order to increase the disease inoculam. This time gap (thirty days) between sowing of spreader row entry (CM500) and test entries allowed disease development in spreader row entry and hence sufficient disease inoculum will be available for test entries for effective screening. \r\nSince P. sorghi is an obligate parasite, conidia of P. sorghi were harvested from fresh and infected plants for inoculations. The method of conidial inoculum preparation used in the present study was followed from Cardwell et al., (1994) and by utilizing the natural spore producing cycle of the fungus, which involved conidial spraying operation in the middle of the night (Siradhana et al., 1976; Renfro et al. (1979)). Conidia were collected from three week old systemically infected maize leaves. Maize leaves infected with P. sorghi showing white visible conidial growth were obtained from the infected field in the previous day evening. The abaxial surface of infected leaves were wiped with wet absorbent cotton to remove aged and matured downy mildew conidia produced previously and they were wiped again using tissue paper to remove moisture from the leaf surface. These SDM infected leaves were spread in a single layer over a tray lined with moist blotting paper in such a way that lower leaf surface faced upwards. Another tray lined with moist blotting paper was used to close the tray containing infected leaf materials in order to enhance relative humidity. These trays were incubated at 20°C in the dark for six to seven hours for sporulation, until 3.00 AM. At this time, conidia were harvested by washing the sporulated leaves in chilled distilled water (5°C) using a camel hairbrush. The conidial suspension was filtered through a double layered of muslin cloth to remove conidiophores and other leaf particles. The conidial concentration was adjusted to 6x105 per ml using a hemacytometer. The resulting spore suspension was placed into backpack sprayers and taken to the field. The spraying of conidial suspension was taken in the field from 3.30 to 4.30 AM onto ten days old spreader row (CM500) plants. This screening method utilizes the natural spore producing cycle of disease causing pathogen. \r\nThe nine maize inbred lines and DMS 652 were planted after confirming hundred per cent disease establishment in the spreader rows in three replications. Hence, the test entries were exposed to infection by both oospores from the soil and conidia from spreader rows. \r\nSeedling spray inoculation technique in the glass house for screening the maize genotypes against SDM. Jones (1970), Schmitt and Freytag (1974) and Craig (1976) developed conidial spray inoculation of seedlings to evaluate responses of maize genotypes to SDM in the glass house. Procedure adopted for seedling spray inoculation method is as follows.\r\nTransparent, UV (Ultra-violet) stabilized Silpaulin plastic sheets were used to cover in side the glass house in order to allow sun light to pass and also to maintain relative humidity created inside the glass house mainly to provide favorable environmental conditions (warm and humid) for downy mildew pathogen development. Screening of maize genotypes against SDM disease was carried out in the glass house available at Department of Cotton, Centre for Plant Breeding and Genetics, Tamil Nadu Agricultural University, Coimbatore during February, 2007. Seeds were sown in trays containing soil from sick plot and allowed to germinate. At the plumule emergence stage when the first leaf was in the whorl (6 days after sowing) test entries were sprayed with conidial suspension adjusted to approximately 6 × 105 per ml of water and applied at a rate equivalent to approximately 1ml per plant using atomizer. In this similar way, conidial suspension spray was given for three consecutive days. Conidial suspension of SDM pathogen was prepared daily as described by Cardwell et al. (1994).\r\nDisease assessment in maize genotypes against SDM. The downy mildew disease reaction was scored at 30 days after plant emergence of test entries in spreader row technique (under sick plot) and 21 days after seedling emergence of test entries in seedling spray inoculation technique (under glass house). The number of systemically infected plants and total number of plants in each test row were recorded. Per cent downy mildew incidence was calculated as per standard procedure (Lal and Singh, 1984) both in field and glass house trials. Per cent downy mildew incidence = \r\n \r\nThe rating scale was followed as below.\r\nRESULTS AND DISCUSSION\r\nSorghum downy mildew infection caused by P. sorghi is one of the significant devastating diseases of maize. Of various mean of disease management, host plant resistance is the most practical, eco-friendly and efficient method. For the development of host plant resistance in any crop, screening of available germplasm forms the platform for identification of resistance sources. Therefore, in the present study, the field (Sick plot method) and glass house (Seedling spray inoculation method) screening methods were compared to identify the reliable method in inducing SDM incidence in maize. \r\nThe susceptible check, CM 500 showed 100 per cent incidence (Table 2) during September, 2006. Among the test entries, sorghum downy mildew incidence ranged from zero (UMI 936(w)) to 88.13 per cent (UMI 79) over two years under sick plot conditions. On the basis of results obtained in two consecutive rabi seasons under sick plot method, the maximum downy mildew incidence was recorded by UMI 79 (88.13 per cent) which followed by UMI 432 (84.53 per cent) and UMI 467 (49.73 per cent). UMI 936(w) showed strong immune (0 per cent) response in both seasons under sick plot condition. The genotypes UMI 936(w) (0 per cent), UMI 102 (6.16 per cent) and UMI 285 (9.87 per cent) were resistant to infection by SDM pathogen, whereas, UMI 13 (12.99 per cent), UMI 176 (22.93 per cent) and UMI 57 (18.80 per cent) showed moderate resistant reaction to SDM pathogen in both seasons. Percentage downy mildew incidence under glass house ranged from 2.62 per cent (UMI 936(w)) to 100 per cent (UMI 79). \r\nThe positive correlation (r = 0.99) between the sorghum downy mildew infection in glass house and field screening methods indicated that the reactions of seedlings to sorghum downy mildew were similar under both conditions. This indicated the reliability of glass house trial for screening the maize genotypes against sorghum downy mildew. More over Seedling spray inoculation of nine maize inbred lines under glass house screening method resulted in increased level of infection (Table 2), whereas the same genotypes under field screening using the infector row method had shown slightly lower level of infection.\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\n This is mainly because the production of disease inoculum is often determined by temperature and humidity, which may not always be favorable for sporulation and infection, leading to disease escape under field condition. Hence, screening under glass house against sorghum downy mildew was the most efficient method in inducing severe sorghum downy mildew infection in maize. This was in accordance with the findings of Craig (1976 and 1980); Schmitt et al. (1979); Narayana et al. (1995).\r\nA sorghum genotype namely DMS 652 reported to be highly susceptible to sorghum downy mildew by many workers (Anahosur and Hegde 1979; Siradhana et al., 1980; Narayana et al., 1995) showed 0 per cent infection (resistance response) to SDM under both sick plot and glass house conditions. From these observations, it can be concluded that the race prevalent in maize sick plot was maize race, which is one of the races of P. sorghi which affects only maize but sorghum genotype. This was well supported by Kothari et al. (1980) from their observation that nowhere the disease has been recorded on any of the sorghum genotypes grown near maize fields having the sorghum downy mildew disease and they indicated the predominance of maize race which is one of the races of P. sorghi attacking maize only. Variability existing for pathogenicity in P. sorghi enhanced the potential for damage from sorghum downy mildew disease. So it is necessary to diversify the resistant sources against sorghum downy mildew in order to reduce the vulnerability of maize genotypes.\r\nThe screening carried out both under sick plot over seasons and glass house showed that out of nine maize inbreds, UMI 936(w) was highly resistant to infection by pathogen followed by UMI 102 and UMI 285. Maize inbred lines, UMI 79, UMI 432 and UMI 467 were highly susceptible to infection by SDM pathogen while UMI 176, UMI 13 and UMI 57 showed moderate reaction to the disease. Even though the maize inbred line, UMI 936 (w) recorded highly resistant reaction to SDM, it could not be directly used in the development of resistant maize hybrids as it segregates for seed colour in the F1 harvested seeds. However, SDM disease resistant gene present in UMI 936(w) can be transferred to any yellow seeded maize genotype (recipient & recurrent parent) through repeated backcross breeding programme. These findings were supported by Hooda et al. (2012).\r\n','S. Arulselvi and B. Selvi (2022). Comparing the Efficiency of Field and Glass House Screening Techniques for Promotion of Sorghum Downy Mildew Infection in Maize. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 14(2a): 528-532.'),(5200,'134','Water Soluble Formulation of Nematode Antagonistic Bacterium, Pasteuria penetrans for the Management of Root-knot Nematode, Meloidogyne incognita in Tuberose','M. Janani*, N. Swarnakumari, A. Shanthi and M. Gnanachitra','88 Water Soluble Formulation of Nematode Antagonistic Bacterium, Pasteuria penetrans for the Management of Root-knot Nematode, Meloidogyne incognita in Tuberose M. Janani.pdf','',1,'Root-knot nematode, Meloidogyne incognita is a serious damage causing nematode in both sub-tropical and tropical regions. It causes global crop losses in agricultural and horticultural crops. Recent reports indicate that this nematode become an issue to farmers due to its parasitism. Pasteuria penetrans is a potential hyperparasitic bacterium against M. incognita. Though it is a successful biocontrol agent against nematodes, mass production and commercial formulation of P. penetrans is still unavailable. Based on these information, a water soluble formulation of P. penetrans was prepared using emulsifiers and surfactants. This formulation was tested against M. incognita in tuberose under pot culture condition. Different concentrations of the formulation viz., 0.5ml, 1ml, 2ml and 2.5ml were prepared and tested its efficacy against M. incognita. Results showed that the formulation 2ml per plant recorded with highest reduction in number of gall (5.1/plant) as well as egg masses production (3.1/plant; 82% reduction over control). The same treatment showed highest plant growth parameters in terms of shoot weight as well as number of tubers. The outcome of this study showed that the formulation 2ml/plant possesses highest potential in suppressing nematode infestation in tuberose. Hence, this treatment was further were forwarded for field study. ','Meloidogyne incognita, Pasteuria penetrans, water soluble formulation; Shelf-life, Parasitization, Tuberose, Pot culture study','P. penetrans is a successful and potential biocontrol agent which is very effective in controlling the most damage causing root-knot nematode M. incognita in tuberose plants. Water soluble formulation of P. penetrans was developed and tested against M. incognita in tuberose. Application of this formulation at the rate of 2ml / plant showed highest reduction in nematode infestation that was below economic thresh hold level. Hence this formulation may be further refined and tested in other crops in future.','INTRODUCTION\r\nRoot-knot nematode, Meloidogyne sp. is one of the most devastating pests of many field and horticultural crops (Khan, 2015). They exist in soil in areas with hot climates or short winters (Khan et al. 2021). About 2000 plants worldwide are susceptible to infection caused by root-knot nematodes and they contribute approximately 5% of global crop loss (Saha et al., 2016). If root-knot nematodes become established in deep-rooted, perennial crops, control is difficult and options will be limited. Bio-control potential of P. penetrans against Meloidogyne incognita was documented (Mukhtar et al., 2013). Tuberose (Polianthes tuberose L) is one of the most important tropical ornamental bulbous flowering plants cultivated for production of long lasting flower spikes. It is popularly known as Rajanigandha or Nishigandha. It belongs to the family Amaryllidaceae and it is native of Mexico. Tuberose can successfully be grown in pots, borders, beds and commercially cultivated for various uses (Johnson 1970). It\'s spikes produce about 20 fragrant white florets. Nowadays, root-knot nematode infestation that is particularly M. incognita in tuberose is a challenging one for farmers (Gowda and Chawla 2013). It is the most economically damaging genera of plant parasitic nematodes (Grace et al., 2019). Root-knot nematode infection has been reported from all tuberose growing areas in India (Sellaperumal et al., 2015). Most of the commercially grown varieties of tuberose have been reported to be susceptible to M. incognita (Chawla and Singh, 2006). Understanding the interaction between an obligate hyperparasitic bacterium, P. penetrans and its obligate plant‐parasitic nematode host, Meloidogyne spp (Davies, 2009). So in such way, a biocontrol agent can be used to control its infestation and the disease caused by them (Abdullah, 2012; Grace et al., 2019). \r\nP. penetrans is a potential biocontrol agent and studied by several authors (Chen and Dickson 1998; Swarnakumari and Sivakumar 2005). It is a good bacterial parasite of nematode. It was first described as P. romosa a parasite of water fleas, Daphina magna (Skerman et al., 1980) followed by many scientists renamed differently, finally it was reported as Pasteuria penetrans (Sayre and Starr 1985). Juvenile of Meloidogyne nematode hatch from eggs and have a short-free living second stage (J2 stage) in soil after which they invade the rhizosphere and attach to host-plants. The form galls around developing juveniles where they complete their life cycle (Danlei et al. 2004). A study by Chen and Dickson (1997) developed binomial sampling plans to estimate P. penetrans endospore attachment to J2 M. arenaria. Ayanaba (1993) invented the slow-release bio-degradable granules containing endospores of P. penetrans in order to suppress nematode reproduction. Swarnakumari (2021) have entrapped P. penetrans endospores in alginate beads and tested its efficacy in cucumber. EC formulation of this bacterium was developed and tested by Srishalini et al. (2021). In the current study a water soluble formulation was developed and tested in tuberose. The methodology adopted and results obtained are described in this paper.\r\nMATERIALS AND METHODS\r\nPure culture maintenance of P. penetrans on root-knot nematode Meloidogyne incognita. Pure culture of P. penetrans was maintained in bhendi (variety Co 4) plants. Egg masses of M. incognita were collected from the infected field (Fig. 1) and incubated at room temperature (27±2 ℃) in water for hatching. After egg hatching endospores of P. penetrans were added to the suspension containing J2 of M. incognita and incubated for 3 days for spore attachment. Then the endospore attached J2 were inoculated into the bhendi plants and maintained in the sterile pot mixture (sand 1: redsoil 2: FYM 2). These plants were pulled out 30 days after inoculation to confirm the multiplication of P. penetrans (Fig. 2). These cultures were used for experimental purpose. After that bhendi plants were uprooted and infested gravid female of M. incognita were dissected to record the presence of endospores.\r\nPreparation of water soluble formulation of P. penetrans. Endospores of P. penetrans were collected and stored in sterile microfuge tubes containing sterile water (2ml) by crushing infected female nematodes manually. Water soluble formulation was prepared by using lecithin (Van Nieuwenhuyzen, 1976), Triton –X, tween 80, glycerol, tween 20. Lecithin (1ml) was added to the hot water and mixed thoroughly. Tween 80 (3ml), glycerol (1ml) Triton- X (3ml) and tween 20 (3ml) were added to this prepared mixture (Fig.3). Finally 1 ml of endospore suspension (1 × 106/ml) was added to this mixture and stored in a glass vial at room temperature (27±2 ℃). \r\nAssessment of shelf-life of the formulation. The formulation was transferred into sterilized microfuge tubes and stored in room temperature (27±2 ℃). Observations on viability of endospores and condition of the formulation were recorded on 30th and 50th day after inoculation (DAI). \r\nTesting the efficacy of water soluble formulation of P. penetrans against M. incognita in tuberose. Seed tubers of tuberose plant were planted in pots filled with sterile pot mixture (sand : vermicompost: red soil - 2:1:1). Various concentrations of each formulation viz., 0.5ml, 1ml, 2ml and 2.5ml were inoculated separately to pots. A chemical check was maintained with Nimitz (1.5g/plant) and the fungal bioagent, Pochonia chlamydosporia (1ml/plant) as positive check. One set of pots were maintained without any treatment as untreated (Control) for comparison. Three replications were maintained for each treatment. Healthy J2 of M. incognita were collected from freshly hatched eggs and were inoculated into the pots (100 J2/pot). Observations were taken on nematode infestation in soil and root and plant biometric characters were also recorded.\r\nStatistical analysis. The data obtained from various experiments described above were analyzed using ANOVA DMRT (Panse and Sukhatme 1954) and analyzed using AGRES statistical software.\r\nRESULTS AND DISCUSSION\r\nProperties of the formulation. The physical characters of the formulation showed that the formulation was dull white in colour and was stable upto 2 months. The formulation was also water soluble. It contained an average of 1.5 × 106 spores/1.5ml (Table 1). Endospores retained their shape and were intact in the formulation. Findings of Raut et al. (2012) also revealed that the formulation was more effective and consistent. Zhou et al. (2010) confirmed that the role of lecithin in formulation preparation and they have a synthesized a lecithin-based nanoemulsion and measured particle size, viscosity, stability and skin hydration. Swarnakumari (2021) have entrapped P. penetrans endospores in alginate beads and tested its efficacy in cucumber. EC formulation of this bacterium was developed and tested by Srishalini et al. (2021). These findings were in agreement with the current observations. Results of these experiments confirmed that the water soluble formulation was effective against M. incognita in tuberose.\r\nShelf- life assessment. Viability of endospores in the formulation was observed on 30 and 60 days after storage. There was no change in the physical condition of the formulation for 2 months (60 days). The parasitization potential of P. penetrans on J2 of M. incognita was normal on 30 and 60 days after storage at room temperature.\r\nPot culture. Water soluble formulation of P. penetrans with different concentrations was applied to tuberose plants. A check of an untreated control was also maintained for comparison. The whole plants were uprooted 45 days after planting (Fig. 6). Growth parameters with each treatment were observed and recorded (Table 3, Fig. 5) This was in accordance with Weibelzahl-Fulton et al. (1996) who tested the efficacy of P. penetrans against M. incognita and M. javanica in tobacco plant. Application of water soluble formulation with concentration of 2ml /plant recorded the lowest gall formation that was 66% reduction over control. The same treatment was on par with P. chlamydosporia (49.3% reduction over control) followed by Nimitz (48.3%). Whereas, formulation at 1ml and 2.5ml / plant was on par with each other and reduced the gall formation by 46% when compared to control. Highest reduction of egg masses was recorded in 2.5ml (3 egg masses /plant that is 82.3% reduction over control). Application of P. chlamydosporia recorded 4 egg masses / plant that was 76.4% reduction over control followed by Nimitz (Table 2, Fig. 4). Highest reduction of J2 population in soil was observed in pots received 2ml of the formulation followed by P. chlamydosporia. Number of infested females was higher in plants applied with the formulation 2ml followed by 2.5ml. Tzortzakakis et al. (1997) conducted the interaction study between P. penetrans and M. incognita under pot culture condition. The spore load was sufficient in females and successfully controlled the M. incognita.\r\n \r\n','M. Janani, N. Swarnakumari, A. Shanthi and M. Gnanachitra (2022). Water Soluble Formulation of Nematode Antagonistic Bacterium, Pasteuria penetrans for the Management of Root-knot Nematode, Meloidogyne incognita in Tuberose. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 14(2a): 533-538.'),(5201,'133','Effect of Integrated Weed Management Practices on Weed Parameters in Direct Seeded Aerobic Rice','Kotresh D.J., S. Radhamani*, P. Murali Arthanari, V. Ravichandran, C. Bharathi and Sangothari A.','89 Effect of Integrated Weed Management Practices on Weed Parameters in Direct Seeded Aerobic Rice Kotresh D.J.pdf','',4,'Weeds are the major constraints in aerobic rice cultivation, which offer stronger competition for essential growth factors. The weeds like Echinocloacolona and E. crus-galli affect the crop majorly. The yield loss may result in complete failure for crop. Even after development of several weed management strategies, no single method had proven fully effective. But the integrated approach that combines the advantages of various method can reduce the weed menace in aerobic rice cultivation. Different integrated weed management treatments were evaluated at Wetland farm, Department of Agronomy, TNAU, Coimbatore, to find the best performing integrated management practice during summer (March-July) 2022. Results showed that grassy weeds dominated in the aerobic rice field followed by broad leaved weeds. The integrated treatment, application of pyrazosulfuron ethyl (30g a.i./ha) as pre-emergence (3 DAS)fb bispyribac sodium (40g a.i./ha) as early post-emergence (12 DAS)fb one mechanical weeding (45 DAS) recorded higher weed control with decreased weed density (21.3/m2) and weed dry weight (15.55 g/m2)and the higher weed control efficiency (92.5%) at 60 DAS and was on par with the application of pendimethalin (1kg a.i./ha) as pre-emergence (3 DAS) fb two hand weeding (25 and 45 DAS).','Aerobic rice, Bispyribac sodium, Pyrazosulfuron ethyl, Weed Control Efficiency, Weed Control index, Weed Persistence index','From the above results, it could be concluded that the treatment pyrazosulfuron ethyl (30g a.i./ha) as pre-emergence fb bispyribac sodium (40g a.i./ha) as early post-emergence fb one mechanical weeding (T6)gave broader spectrum control of weeds and reduced the weed density and weed dry matter and was comparable with the standard check of pendimethalin (1kg a.i./ha) as pre-emergence fb two hand weeding (T1), in terms of weed density and weed dry matter production. ','INTRODUCTION\r\nAerobic rice production is a newly evolved concept to get higher yields with less water. In comparison with cultivation of lowland transplanted rice, the aerobic rice saves nearly half of water by reducing the water requirements for land preparation and nursery raising and also due to absence of standing water. According to Castaneda et al., (2002), compared to lowland rice, water requirements in aerobic rice were 50per cent lower (470 mm—650 mm) and witnessed an increment of 64–88per cent in water productivity and a reduction in labor use by 55per cent. The reduction is also witnessed in seed rate, transplanting costs and labor wages (Kumar et al., 2020).\r\nIn aerobic rice fields, the crop and weeds emerge together and weeds have comparative growth advantage. They compete for all the essential growth factors like light, space, nutrients and water. Weed competition is too severe that even within a single crop life cycle there may be three generations or flushes of weeds competing with them (Nagargade et al., 2018). The yield of aerobic rice will reduce to a greater extent if left un-weeded. The extent of loss in yields due to improper weed management ranges between 62.2 to 91.7 per cent (Sunil, 2018). The weed competition may rise up to the extent that rice crop will get killed and no grain yield can be obtained (Bhullar et al., 2016). This loss in yield can be overcome by efficient and integrated weed management practices. There are different methods of weed management, of which some are proven effective, some are economical and some others time saving.\r\nHand weeding is the primitive method of weed management that stands best even today. Though hand weeding is considered as a standard, in direct-seeded aerobic rice it is time and labor consuming. Also, hand weeding is at least five times more cost intense than herbicides, especially under limited and expensive labour situations (Rao et al., 2017). Mechanical weeding helps in easy weeding than manual method, but it is confined to inter-row weeds, leaving the intra-row unattended. Singh et al. (2016) reported that in comparison with weed free condition, there was a reduction of 14-27 per cent rice grain yield in the plots treated with pendimethalin fb bispyribac sodium, which was due to the weeds that escaped herbicide applications, indicating the emerging ability of weeds even after chemical spray. Hence, studies have been made to evaluate the integrated approach of weed management. Munnoli et al. (2018) reported that higher growth and yield of aerobic rice in integrated weed management can be achieved by early control of initial flush of weeds by pre-emergence or early post-emergence and subsequent control of further weed growth by either manual or some herbicide application, that ensures necessary weed free conditions for better crop growth. Present study was taken up with different weed management methods like manual, mechanical and chemical methods, that are put together in different combinations and evaluated for efficient integrated weed management practice in aerobic rice. \r\nMATERIALS AND METHODS\r\nField experiment was carriedout at Wetland Farms, Department of Agronomy, Tamil Nadu Agricultural University, Coimbatore during Summer (March-June) 2022. The soil of the experimental field was neutral in reaction (pH:7.7), low in available N (238.3 kg/ha) and medium in available P (12.1 kg/ha) and high in available K (408.7 kg/ha). The experiment was laid in randomised block design, with nine treatments replicated thrice. The treatment details are furnished in Table 1. The different herbicides used in the experimental study were pendimethalin, pyrazosulfuron ethyl and bispyribac-sodium. The mechanical weeding was carried out using rotary weeder. The treatment of pendimethalin with two hand weeding was taken as standard check for comparision of other integrated weed management treatments.\r\nRice variety CO-53 was used in the experiment. The field was ploughed thoroughly and fine tilth was obtained to facilitate easy sowing. The gross plot size was 5m × 3m and net plot was 4.6m × 2.6m. Sowing was done manually on March second week with the seed rate of 75kg/ha, spacing of 20cm × 10cm and was irrigated immediately. Recommended dose of fertilisers (150:50:50 kg/ha of N, P and K) was given in split doses, along with basal micro-nutrient application of Zinc sulphate (25 kg/ha) and iron sulphate (25 kg/ha). The pre-emergence and early post-emergence herbicides were sprayed at 3 DAS and 12 DAS, respectively. Hand weeding and mechanical weeding operations were carried out as per the treatment schedule on 25 DAS and 45 DAS.\r\nWeed density and weed biomass of grasses and broadleaved weeds were recorded separately using 0.25m2 quadrat. The quadrat was placed in four random spots within each plot and weed count and weed biomass were taken for per square meter area. The observations were recorded at 30, 60 and 90 DAS. The weed samples were sun dried and oven dried for 24-48 hours at 65°C and weed dry matter was recorded. \r\nWeed control efficiency, weed control index and weed persistence index for all the treatments were calculated using the formula (Mani et al., 1973; Misra and Tosh, 1979; Mishra and Misra, 1997).\r\nWeed Control Efficiency \r\n= \r\nWeed Control Index \r\n= \r\nWeed Persistence Index \r\n= \r\nWhere, WD = Weed density, WDM = Weed dry matter\r\nThe weed data were statistically analysed according to the procedure given by Gomez and Gomez (1984) to find the significant difference (at five per cent probability level) and superior among the nine treatments. The data on weed density and weed dry matter is subjected to square root transformation (√(x+0.5)).\r\nRESULTS AND DISCUSSION\r\nComposition of weed flora in experimental field. Being sown in upland condition and receiving alternate wetting and drying method of irrigation, in the absence of standing water, aerobic rice recorded several species of weeds, that included mainly grasses and broadleaved weeds (Table 2). Weeds clearly showed periodicity of germination, as several weeds were seen after a month of sowing and few weeds made their presence even at flowering stage of crop. But the diversity of weed flora was restricted, as the experimental field was subjected to puddling in previous crop, which was also reasonable for absence of sedge weeds during entire period of crop growth (Munnoli et al., 2018).\r\nWeed density. Among the treatments, significant difference was recorded in weed densities in all the treated plots. At 30 DAS, the treatment application pendimethalin (1kg a.i./ha) as pre-emergence fb two hand weeding (T1) recorded significant superiority in controlling weed density (10.7/m2). This was on par with two hand weeding at 25th and 45th days (T7) (11.0/m2) andthe treatment of pyrazosulfuron ethyl (30ga.i./ha) as pre-emergence fb bispyribac sodium (40g a.i./ha) as early post-emergence fb one mechanical weeding (T6) (12.3/m2). The decreased weed density in these treatments indicated the efficient control of weeds with the pre-emergence application of pendimethalin and pyrazosulfuron ethyl at 3 DAS. Similar observations for pre-emergence application of herbicides were recorded by Awan et al. (2016); Singh et al. (2016). However, the control plot (T9) without any weed control measure recorded the highest weed density of 266.0/m2 (Table 3).\r\nThe total weed density at 60 DAS was significantly reduced in the treatment, pendimethalin (1kg a.i./ha) as pre-emergence fb two hand weeding (T1) (20.3/m2), that was comparable with pyrazosulfuron ethyl (30g a.i./ha) as pre-emergence fb bispyribac sodium (40g a.i./ha) as early post-emergence fb one mechanical weeding (T6) (21.3/m2), while unweeded control plot (T9) recorded highest weed density (282.7/m2). The decreased weed density was attributed to the sequential application of pre-emergence and early post-emergence herbicides in the former treatment. Similar findings were also recorded by Hemalatha and Singh (2018); Kumar et al.(2020).\r\nAt 90 DAS, the treatment of pendimethalin (1kg a.i./ha) as pre-emergence fb two hand weeding (T1) recorded significantly lower weed density (22.7/m2) and was followed by the application of pyrazosulfuron ethyl (30g a.i./ha) as pre-emergence fb bispyribac sodium (40g a.i./ha) as early post-emergence fb one mechanical weeding (T6) (23.0/m2) and application of early post-emergence bispyribac sodium (40g a.i./ha) fb one hand weeding (T4) (24.0/m2). The weed control with decreased weed densities reflected the benefit of integration of early post-emergence application of bispyribac sodium that either followed pre-emergence application of pyrazosulfuron ethyl or as alone fb one hand weeding (Rana et al., 2016; Patil et al., 2020; Kumari et al., 2016). The control of multiple flushes of weeds that germinate periodically was reason for better reduction in weed density. \r\nWeed dry matter. During early stage of crop growth, at 30 DAS, the treatments that combined the pre-emergence application of either pendimethalin (1kg a.i./ha) or pyrazosulfuron ethyl (30g a.i./ha) with hand weeding or early post-emergence spray of bispyribac sodium (40g a.i./ha)achieved significantly lower weed dry matter than other treatments. The weed dry matter in pendimethalin (1kg a.i./ha) applied as pre-emergence herbicide fb two hand weeding (T1) was 1.72g/m2, that was comparable with other two treatments, viz., pyrazosulfuron ethyl (30g a.i./ha) as pre-emergence that followed bispyribac sodium (40g a.i./ha) as early post-emergencefb one mechanical weeding (T6) (1.76 g/m2) and two hand weeding (T7) (1.80g/m2). The results were in accordance with Saravanane et al. (2016), where the pre-emergence herbicides have effectively controlled the initial flush of weeds by suppressing the germination and also by killing the emerging weeds. \r\nThe treatment with pyrazosulfuron ethyl (30g a.i./ha) as pre-emergence fb bispyribac sodium (40g a.i./ha) as early post-emergence fb one mechanical weeding (T6) achieved significantly lower values for weed dry weight (15.55g/m2) at 60 DAS and was on par with pendimethalin (1kg a.i./ha) as pre-emergence fb two hand weeding (17.07g/m2) and bispyribac sodium (40g a.i./ha) as early post-emergence fb one hand weeding (T4) (17.81g/m2). The results were in accordance with Sar and Duary(2022). The highest weed dry weight was recorded in control plot (T9) without any treatment application (195.90g/m2). The weed dry weight reduction is clearly due to the efficient control of weeds by the application of early-post emergence bispyribac sodium(Kumar et al., 2013; Singh et al., 2016). The similar trend of observation was noticed at 90 DAS, where pyrazosulfuron ethyl (30g a.i./ha) as pre-emergence fb bispyribac sodium (40g a.i./ha) as early post-emergence fb one mechanical weeding (T6)recorded significantly lower values for weed dry weight (25.96g/m2). But the highest weed dry matter was seen in control (T9) (un-weeded check) (236.26g/m2).\r\nWeed control efficiency. Weed control efficiency varied between the treatments. Among the treatments, pendimethalin (1kg a.i./ha) as pre-emergence fb two hand weeding (T1) recorded highest per cent of weed control efficiency at 30, 60 and 90 DAS (96.0%, 92.8% and 91.3%, respectively). Similar recordings were also observed by Verma et al. (2017). The application of pyrazosulfuron ethyl (30g a.i./ha) as pre-emergence fb bispyribac sodium (40g a.i./ha) as early post-emergence fb one mechanical weeding (T6) was recorded the next best treatment at 60 and 90 DAS (92.5% and 91.2%, respectively). This indicated the broad-spectrum and longer period control of weeds by sequential application of herbicides and integrated management of weeds combined with mechanical weeding. Similar observation was also noted by Pinjari et al. (2016) and Soujanya et al. (2020). Two times hand weeded plots (T7)recorded better weed control efficiency at 30 DAS (95.9%), followed by the plots with sequential application of pyrazosulfuron ethyl, bispyribac sodium and mechanical weeding in order (T6) (95.5%). \r\nWeed control index. The weed control index was higher in the treatment of pyrazosulfuron ethyl (30g a.i./ha) as pre-emergence fb bispyribac sodium (40g a.i./ha) as early post-emergence fb one mechanical weeding (T6), at 30, 60 and 90 DAS with values of 95.8, 92.1 and 89.0, respectively. This was followed by the treatment, pendimethalin (1kg a.i./ha) as pre-emergence fb two hand weeding (T1) (95.9, 91.3 and 87.8, respectively). With these values, it was clear that the treatment of sequential application of herbicides with mechanical weeding had reduced the weed dry weight efficiently over the control plots (un-weeded check) Singh et al.(2018) also recorded similar observations. Among the treatments, two times mechanically weeded plots (T8) recorded very low weed control index at all the observations. \r\nWeed persistence index. Weed persistence index is a measure of persistence/resistance of the weeds that escaped the applied treatment, whose higher value indicates greater persistence and lower indicating less (Garko et al., 2020).The treatment of pyrazosulfuron ethyl (30g a.i./ha) as pre-emergence fb bispyribac sodium (40g a.i./ha) as early post-emergence fb one mechanical weeding (T6) had recorded lowest weed persistence values at 30 and 60 DAS (0.91 and 1.06, respectively) and at 90 DAS, the value was 1.25, which was similar to two hand weeding treatment. This indicated the lower persistence of weeds in these treatments. The results were in line with Mishra et al.(2016). \r\n','Kotresh D.J., S. Radhamani, P. Murali Arthanari, V. Ravichandran, C. Bharathi and Sangothari A. (2022). Effect of Integrated Weed Management Practices on Weed Parameters in Direct Seeded Aerobic Rice. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 14(2a): 539-544.'),(5202,'133','Evaluation of Consortium of Fungal and Bacterial Bio-control agents for Management of Rice Sheath Blight caused by Rhizoctonia solani','Sapna*, Roopali Sharma and Saurabh Dubey','90 Evaluation of Consortium of Fungal and Bacterial bio-controlagents for Management of Rice Sheath Blight caused by Rhizoctonia solani Sapna.pdf','',4,'Rice is one of the most important and staple food crop of world. India occupies an important place in the world and shares about 21% of global rice production. In spite of all the efforts of breeding for disease resistance, this crop is found prone to many diseases caused by fungi, bacteria, viruses, and nematodes have been reported out of them Sheath blight of rice caused by Rhizoctonia solani causes heavy losses ranges between 4-50%. To overcome the problem different management strategies are applied. Due to the side effects of chemical pesticides, sustainable crop production through eco-friendly management is essentially required in the current scenario. In biological control, genus Trichoderma and Pseudomonas serves as one of the best bioagents, which is found to be effective against a wide range of soil-borne, the present investigation has carried out to study the combining effect of fungal and bacterial biocontrol agents’ consortia as well as chemicals for reduction of rice sheath blight. Current study reveals that consortium is almost effective as carbendazim in sheath blight disease reduction as well as it promotes plant growth. ','Rice, Consortium, Sheath Blight, bioagents','The intensive investigation of field studies using potential fungal and bacterial biocontrol agents revealed that performance of consortia of (Trichoderma asperellum) + (Pseudomonas fluorescence) is better over using single isolate of biocontrol agent. Further, the studies also revealed that when the results were compared with the fungicide carbendazim which is being used by the farmers for the control of sheath blight, Consortium of biocontrol agents gave better performance in regard of plant vigour and yield or they were significantly at par with each other.\r\nThe experiment concluded that soil application, seed treatment, foliar spray, seedling dip all were effective in field condition. Application of the biocontrol agents by these methods proved that the maximum plant growth promotion and minimum disease severity percentage was observed in consortium. Therefore, it can be recommended that the use of potential consortia of biocontrol agents against sheath blight can be practiced at farmer’s field successfully. It is very important that the use of biocontrol agents is only successful when the product is having viable counts of spores as per recommendation and application methods are followed properly. Further, future studies can be taken up for the use of consortium of more than two isolates of fungal and bacterial biocontrol agents.\r\n','INTRODUCTION\r\nRice (Oryza sativa) belongs to the genus Oryza (Family: Poaceae) which includes two cultivated and more than 25 wild species. Rice (Oryza sativa L.) is one of the most important cereal crops for 70% of the world population. Over 90% of world’s rice is produced and consumed in the Asian region (Yadav and Singh 2006). India is the second largest producer and consumer of rice in the world and India shares around 21 per cent of global rice production from about 28 per cent of rice area. The area under rice cultivation in India accounts for 437.89 lakh hectare with an average production 112.91 MT and productivity of 2578 kg ha-1 (Department of Agriculture, Cooperation & Farmers Welfare 2017-18). In Uttarakhand, the annual rice production is around 5.5 lakh tonnes from an area of about 2.80 lakh hectares. Rice is cultivated in all the 13 districts of the Uttarakhand. Among the 13 districts, Udham Singh Nagar has maximum area (33%) and production about 48% of the total rice produced annually in the state (Rice knowledge Management Portal, D. R. R, 2013).\r\nDiseases are the major factors for reduction in crop yield of rice, among them sheath blight disease is major concern and it causes considerable losses in rice field. The estimation of losses due to sheath blight of rice in India has been reported to be up to 54.3% (Chahal et al., 2003). However, the yield losses ranging from 4-50% have been reported depending on the crop stage at the time of infection, severity of the disease and environmental conditions (Singh et al. 2004; Zheng et al. 2013; Bhukal et al. 2015). Richa et al. (2016) also reported that up to 50% of rice yield reduction was done by the sheath blight pathogen during favourable environmental condition. Different management strategies are applied for reduction of the sheath blight disease and among all strategies chemical control still performs better in disease reduction, but chemical control of sheath blight is expensive and non-sustainable. In the absence of suitable and effective management through chemicals, bio control agents may be exploited for the management of rice sheath blight. Disease management through eco-friendly fungal and bacterial antagonists are the need of today. In the present study, two bio control agents fungal and bacterial namely, Trichoderma spp. and Pseudomonas spp. which were earlier proved to be very effective to manage the disease in different parts of the country, were tested under field condition as soil and seed treatment with foliar spray and simultaneously compared with the effective chemicals to manage sheath blight disease.\r\nMATERIAL AND METHODS\r\nTo find out the effectiveness of consortium of biocontrol agents against sheath blight of rice, this experiment was conducted at Crop Research Centre (NEB-CRC) of G.B. Pant University of Agriculture and Technology, Pantnagar during 2019-2020. In this experiments, susceptible rice variety against sheath blight of rice Pant Dhan 4 was sown in randomized block design (RBD) with eleven treatments and three replications. The crop was raised in plots of 3 × 2 m2 area, keeping row to row and plant-to-plant distance of 30 cm × 10 cm. \r\nThe field experiment was conducted to evaluate the effect of four potential biocontrol agents in single and in consortium along with one standard check PBAT3 and one fungicide carbendazim in field condition. Formulation of Trichoderma asperellum and Pseudomonas fluorescence were applied in field in single and in consortium to study the effect of potential fungal and bacterial antagonist against the sheath blight disease of rice. The Field experiment was conducted with following treatments to test the efficacy of these treatments against rice sheath blight.\r\n\r\nMode of application of biocontrol agent isolates in single and in consortium was applied according to treatment in field. The different mode of application was: 1) Seed treatment with biocontrol agents in single and in consortium was done by mixing 10gm of biocontrol agents in 1kg of seeds before 24 hours of seed sowing 2) soil was treated with the biocontrol agents \r\n@10gm were mixed with vermicompost @100gm applied in each plot before15 days of transplanting soil, 3) In Seedling dip method the freshly uprooted seedlings were dipped in biocontrol agent suspension @ 10gm in 1 litre of water before 20-30 minutes of transplanting. 4) Foliar spray of biocontrol agents was done at three times; first spray of biocontrol agent was done at 30 days after sowing; the 2nd and 3rd spray was done at 45 days of interval.\r\nIn context to treated seeds with biocontrol agent in field conditions observation was recorded in term of both growth promotion and disease reduction. The disease severity and disease reduction percentage, increase in Plant vigor and Yield were recorded in field condition at 90-120 days after sowing.\r\nThe disease severity and disease reduction percentage were measured by given formula:\r\n\r\nDisease severity = (Lesion height )/(Total plant height)×100\r\nDisease reduction % = \r\n(Disease severity in control-Disease severity in treatment)/(Disease severity in control)×100\r\nThe statistical study of field experiment data was examined by RBD (randomized block design) with the help of OPSTAT software. The data found by OPSTAT were compared by means of critical difference at 5% level of significance.\r\nRESULT AND DISCUSSION\r\nThe present investigations were carried out on sheath blight disease of rice to test the effect of fungal and bacterial biocontrol agent formulations against sheath blight in rice, the experiment was conducted under field conditions at Crop Research Centre (CRC), Pantnagar. To test these biocontrol agents formulations, randomly block design RBD) was implemented in field condition on the area of 6 square meter (Plate 1). Total number of 11 treatments and each treatment having 3 replications were used in RBD. The rice variety Pant Dhan 4 which was suceptible for the disease was used to know the effect of consortium of biocontrol agents on disease reduction and plant growth promotion.\r\nIn recent years, similar attempts were also made to use a consortium of biological control of plant pathogens by Chakrabarti et al. (2018); Mishra et al. (2011); Singh et. al. (2010).\r\nEffect of biocontrol agents consortia on rice plant vigour. As these natural antagonist helps in disease management as well as plant growth promotion. The observation of the field experiment shows that the different biocontrol agents of fungal and bacterial isolates were effective in increasing number of tillers per plant and plant height.As the result shows that among all the treatments, biocontrol agents which were used in combination/consortia were more effective than the control and carbendazim. The experiment showed that the height of plant after 90 days of transplanting were maximum in case of consortia of PBAT3 (63.20cm), followed by Th17 + Psf173 (63.06cm), Th17 + Psf2 (63.00cm) and Th14 + Psf2 (61.95cm) which were significantly better than carbendazim (59.80cm) and control (57.94cm) (Table 1). Maximum number of tillers per plant after 90 days of transplanting was observed in the treatment of PBAT3 (18.66 tillers/hill), followed by Th17 + Psf173 (17.66 tillers/hill), Th17 + Psf2 (16.86 tillers/hill) and Th14 + Psf2 (16.86 tillers/hill) which were better than carbendazim (15.33 tillers/hill) and control (14.66 tillers/hill) (Table 1). Roy et al. (2015) also conducted a field experiment to assess the integrated management of M. phaseolina by application of three bioagents through seed treatment or soil application either single or in consortium with seed treating fungicide and found the similar results in context to increase in yield and reduction of disaese.\r\nEffect of biocontrol agents consortia on yield parameter of rice plant. Sheath blight is important disease as it reduces the yield of rice and also affects the quality of the grain. The experiment was conducted to know the effect of consortium of biocontrol agents on yield parameters. The observations showed in the (Table 2), the maximum yield per hactare was found in the PBAT3 (53.83q/ha), followed by Th17 + Psf173 (53.50q/ha), Th17 + Psf2 (53.33q/ha) and Th14 + Psf2 (53.33q/ha) which were significantly better than the carbendazim (50.00q/hac) and control (41q/hac). Biocontrol agents were also helpful for increasing test weight of the grain (1000grain weight). In the field experiment, data has been taken on test weight of grain and the maximum test weight was found in consortium of PBAT3 (28.51g), followed by Th17 + Psf173 (28.50g), Th17 + Psf2 (28.41g) and Th14 + Psf2 (28.29) which were significantly superior than the carbendazim (25.93g) and control (21.41g) (Table 2). The results of the consortium of biocontrol agents showed better performance over control and carbendazim. \r\nThis result is close confirmity with Khan and Sinha, (2007). The optimum dose of the bioagent was found to enhance the qualitative parameters such as number of tillers, plant hieght and grain yield reported by Doni et al. (2014); Khan and Sinha (2007); (Mathivanan et al. (2005).\r\nEffect of biocontrol agents consortia in single or in combination on disease severity and disease reduction percentage of rice plant. During the rice season the disease sheath blight was the major problem in rice field (Plate 1). The effect of the fungal and bacterial biocontrol agents on disease reduction percentage and disease severity percentage is showed in Table 3. The minimum disease severity percentage was recorded in the fungicide carbendazim (30.30%), followed by the consortium of PBAT3 (30.58%), Th17 + Psf173 (31.00%) and Th17 + Psf2 (31.29%) and Th14 + Psf2 (32.95%) which were significantly better than control (37.30%). The result of the disease reduction percentage was maximum in the fungicide carbendazim (18.76%), followed by the consortium of PBAT3 (18.00%), Th17 + Psf173 (16.89%), Th17 + Psf2 (16.11%) and Th14 + Psf2 (11.66). However, all the treatments were found superior as compared to control. The result showed that the fungal or bacterial isolates used in consortium or in alone were found as effective as carbendazim. Singh et al. (2010); Chakrabarti et al. (2018); Mathivanan et al. (2006) have also observed the similar finding earlier.\r\n','Sapna, Roopali Sharma and Saurabh Dubey (2022). Evaluation of Consortium of Fungal and Bacterial bio-control agents for Management of Rice Sheath Blight caused by Rhizoctonia solani. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 14(2a): 545-549.'),(5203,'134','Effect of Integrated Weed Management Practices on Weed Parameters in Direct Seeded Aerobic Rice','Kotresh D.J., S. Radhamani*, P. Murali Arthanari, V. Ravichandran, C. Bharathi and Sangothari A.','89 Effect of Integrated Weed Management Practices on Weed Parameters in Direct Seeded Aerobic Rice Kotresh D.J.pdf','',1,'Weeds are the major constraints in aerobic rice cultivation, which offer stronger competition for essential growth factors. The weeds like Echinocloacolona and E. crus-galli affect the crop majorly. The yield loss may result in complete failure for crop. Even after development of several weed management strategies, no single method had proven fully effective. But the integrated approach that combines the advantages of various method can reduce the weed menace in aerobic rice cultivation. Different integrated weed management treatments were evaluated at Wetland farm, Department of Agronomy, TNAU, Coimbatore, to find the best performing integrated management practice during summer (March-July) 2022. Results showed that grassy weeds dominated in the aerobic rice field followed by broad leaved weeds. The integrated treatment, application of pyrazosulfuron ethyl (30g a.i./ha) as pre-emergence (3 DAS)fb bispyribac sodium (40g a.i./ha) as early post-emergence (12 DAS)fb one mechanical weeding (45 DAS) recorded higher weed control with decreased weed density (21.3/m2) and weed dry weight (15.55 g/m2)and the higher weed control efficiency (92.5%) at 60 DAS and was on par with the application of pendimethalin (1kg a.i./ha) as pre-emergence (3 DAS) fb two hand weeding (25 and 45 DAS).','Aerobic rice, Bispyribac sodium, Pyrazosulfuron ethyl, Weed Control Efficiency, Weed Control index, Weed Persistence index','From the above results, it could be concluded that the treatment pyrazosulfuron ethyl (30g a.i./ha) as pre-emergence fb bispyribac sodium (40g a.i./ha) as early post-emergence fb one mechanical weeding (T6)gave broader spectrum control of weeds and reduced the weed density and weed dry matter and was comparable with the standard check of pendimethalin (1kg a.i./ha) as pre-emergence fb two hand weeding (T1), in terms of weed density and weed dry matter production. ','INTRODUCTION\r\nAerobic rice production is a newly evolved concept to get higher yields with less water. In comparison with cultivation of lowland transplanted rice, the aerobic rice saves nearly half of water by reducing the water requirements for land preparation and nursery raising and also due to absence of standing water. According to Castaneda et al., (2002), compared to lowland rice, water requirements in aerobic rice were 50per cent lower (470 mm—650 mm) and witnessed an increment of 64–88per cent in water productivity and a reduction in labor use by 55per cent. The reduction is also witnessed in seed rate, transplanting costs and labor wages (Kumar et al., 2020).\r\nIn aerobic rice fields, the crop and weeds emerge together and weeds have comparative growth advantage. They compete for all the essential growth factors like light, space, nutrients and water. Weed competition is too severe that even within a single crop life cycle there may be three generations or flushes of weeds competing with them (Nagargade et al., 2018). The yield of aerobic rice will reduce to a greater extent if left un-weeded. The extent of loss in yields due to improper weed management ranges between 62.2 to 91.7 per cent (Sunil, 2018). The weed competition may rise up to the extent that rice crop will get killed and no grain yield can be obtained (Bhullar et al., 2016). This loss in yield can be overcome by efficient and integrated weed management practices. There are different methods of weed management, of which some are proven effective, some are economical and some others time saving.\r\nHand weeding is the primitive method of weed management that stands best even today. Though hand weeding is considered as a standard, in direct-seeded aerobic rice it is time and labor consuming. Also, hand weeding is at least five times more cost intense than herbicides, especially under limited and expensive labour situations (Rao et al., 2017). Mechanical weeding helps in easy weeding than manual method, but it is confined to inter-row weeds, leaving the intra-row unattended. Singh et al. (2016) reported that in comparison with weed free condition, there was a reduction of 14-27 per cent rice grain yield in the plots treated with pendimethalin fb bispyribac sodium, which was due to the weeds that escaped herbicide applications, indicating the emerging ability of weeds even after chemical spray. Hence, studies have been made to evaluate the integrated approach of weed management. Munnoli et al. (2018) reported that higher growth and yield of aerobic rice in integrated weed management can be achieved by early control of initial flush of weeds by pre-emergence or early post-emergence and subsequent control of further weed growth by either manual or some herbicide application, that ensures necessary weed free conditions for better crop growth. Present study was taken up with different weed management methods like manual, mechanical and chemical methods, that are put together in different combinations and evaluated for efficient integrated weed management practice in aerobic rice. \r\nMATERIALS AND METHODS\r\nField experiment was carriedout at Wetland Farms, Department of Agronomy, Tamil Nadu Agricultural University, Coimbatore during Summer (March-June) 2022. The soil of the experimental field was neutral in reaction (pH:7.7), low in available N (238.3 kg/ha) and medium in available P (12.1 kg/ha) and high in available K (408.7 kg/ha). The experiment was laid in randomised block design, with nine treatments replicated thrice. The treatment details are furnished in Table 1. The different herbicides used in the experimental study were pendimethalin, pyrazosulfuron ethyl and bispyribac-sodium. The mechanical weeding was carried out using rotary weeder. The treatment of pendimethalin with two hand weeding was taken as standard check for comparision of other integrated weed management treatments.\r\nRice variety CO-53 was used in the experiment. The field was ploughed thoroughly and fine tilth was obtained to facilitate easy sowing. The gross plot size was 5m × 3m and net plot was 4.6m × 2.6m. Sowing was done manually on March second week with the seed rate of 75kg/ha, spacing of 20cm × 10cm and was irrigated immediately. Recommended dose of fertilisers (150:50:50 kg/ha of N, P and K) was given in split doses, along with basal micro-nutrient application of Zinc sulphate (25 kg/ha) and iron sulphate (25 kg/ha). The pre-emergence and early post-emergence herbicides were sprayed at 3 DAS and 12 DAS, respectively. Hand weeding and mechanical weeding operations were carried out as per the treatment schedule on 25 DAS and 45 DAS.\r\nWeed density and weed biomass of grasses and broadleaved weeds were recorded separately using 0.25m2 quadrat. The quadrat was placed in four random spots within each plot and weed count and weed biomass were taken for per square meter area. The observations were recorded at 30, 60 and 90 DAS. The weed samples were sun dried and oven dried for 24-48 hours at 65°C and weed dry matter was recorded. \r\nWeed control efficiency, weed control index and weed persistence index for all the treatments were calculated using the formula (Mani et al., 1973; Misra and Tosh, 1979; Mishra and Misra, 1997).\r\nWeed Control Efficiency \r\n= \r\nWeed Control Index \r\n= \r\nWeed Persistence Index \r\n= \r\nWhere, WD = Weed density, WDM = Weed dry matter\r\nThe weed data were statistically analysed according to the procedure given by Gomez and Gomez (1984) to find the significant difference (at five per cent probability level) and superior among the nine treatments. The data on weed density and weed dry matter is subjected to square root transformation (√(x+0.5)).\r\nRESULTS AND DISCUSSION\r\nComposition of weed flora in experimental field. Being sown in upland condition and receiving alternate wetting and drying method of irrigation, in the absence of standing water, aerobic rice recorded several species of weeds, that included mainly grasses and broadleaved weeds (Table 2). Weeds clearly showed periodicity of germination, as several weeds were seen after a month of sowing and few weeds made their presence even at flowering stage of crop. But the diversity of weed flora was restricted, as the experimental field was subjected to puddling in previous crop, which was also reasonable for absence of sedge weeds during entire period of crop growth (Munnoli et al., 2018).\r\nWeed density. Among the treatments, significant difference was recorded in weed densities in all the treated plots. At 30 DAS, the treatment application pendimethalin (1kg a.i./ha) as pre-emergence fb two hand weeding (T1) recorded significant superiority in controlling weed density (10.7/m2). This was on par with two hand weeding at 25th and 45th days (T7) (11.0/m2) andthe treatment of pyrazosulfuron ethyl (30ga.i./ha) as pre-emergence fb bispyribac sodium (40g a.i./ha) as early post-emergence fb one mechanical weeding (T6) (12.3/m2). The decreased weed density in these treatments indicated the efficient control of weeds with the pre-emergence application of pendimethalin and pyrazosulfuron ethyl at 3 DAS. Similar observations for pre-emergence application of herbicides were recorded by Awan et al. (2016); Singh et al. (2016). However, the control plot (T9) without any weed control measure recorded the highest weed density of 266.0/m2 (Table 3).\r\nThe total weed density at 60 DAS was significantly reduced in the treatment, pendimethalin (1kg a.i./ha) as pre-emergence fb two hand weeding (T1) (20.3/m2), that was comparable with pyrazosulfuron ethyl (30g a.i./ha) as pre-emergence fb bispyribac sodium (40g a.i./ha) as early post-emergence fb one mechanical weeding (T6) (21.3/m2), while unweeded control plot (T9) recorded highest weed density (282.7/m2). The decreased weed density was attributed to the sequential application of pre-emergence and early post-emergence herbicides in the former treatment. Similar findings were also recorded by Hemalatha and Singh (2018); Kumar et al.(2020).\r\nAt 90 DAS, the treatment of pendimethalin (1kg a.i./ha) as pre-emergence fb two hand weeding (T1) recorded significantly lower weed density (22.7/m2) and was followed by the application of pyrazosulfuron ethyl (30g a.i./ha) as pre-emergence fb bispyribac sodium (40g a.i./ha) as early post-emergence fb one mechanical weeding (T6) (23.0/m2) and application of early post-emergence bispyribac sodium (40g a.i./ha) fb one hand weeding (T4) (24.0/m2). The weed control with decreased weed densities reflected the benefit of integration of early post-emergence application of bispyribac sodium that either followed pre-emergence application of pyrazosulfuron ethyl or as alone fb one hand weeding (Rana et al., 2016; Patil et al., 2020; Kumari et al., 2016). The control of multiple flushes of weeds that germinate periodically was reason for better reduction in weed density. \r\nWeed dry matter. During early stage of crop growth, at 30 DAS, the treatments that combined the pre-emergence application of either pendimethalin (1kg a.i./ha) or pyrazosulfuron ethyl (30g a.i./ha) with hand weeding or early post-emergence spray of bispyribac sodium (40g a.i./ha)achieved significantly lower weed dry matter than other treatments. The weed dry matter in pendimethalin (1kg a.i./ha) applied as pre-emergence herbicide fb two hand weeding (T1) was 1.72g/m2, that was comparable with other two treatments, viz., pyrazosulfuron ethyl (30g a.i./ha) as pre-emergence that followed bispyribac sodium (40g a.i./ha) as early post-emergencefb one mechanical weeding (T6) (1.76 g/m2) and two hand weeding (T7) (1.80g/m2). The results were in accordance with Saravanane et al. (2016), where the pre-emergence herbicides have effectively controlled the initial flush of weeds by suppressing the germination and also by killing the emerging weeds. \r\nThe treatment with pyrazosulfuron ethyl (30g a.i./ha) as pre-emergence fb bispyribac sodium (40g a.i./ha) as early post-emergence fb one mechanical weeding (T6) achieved significantly lower values for weed dry weight (15.55g/m2) at 60 DAS and was on par with pendimethalin (1kg a.i./ha) as pre-emergence fb two hand weeding (17.07g/m2) and bispyribac sodium (40g a.i./ha) as early post-emergence fb one hand weeding (T4) (17.81g/m2). The results were in accordance with Sar and Duary(2022). The highest weed dry weight was recorded in control plot (T9) without any treatment application (195.90g/m2). The weed dry weight reduction is clearly due to the efficient control of weeds by the application of early-post emergence bispyribac sodium(Kumar et al., 2013; Singh et al., 2016). The similar trend of observation was noticed at 90 DAS, where pyrazosulfuron ethyl (30g a.i./ha) as pre-emergence fb bispyribac sodium (40g a.i./ha) as early post-emergence fb one mechanical weeding (T6)recorded significantly lower values for weed dry weight (25.96g/m2). But the highest weed dry matter was seen in control (T9) (un-weeded check) (236.26g/m2).\r\nWeed control efficiency. Weed control efficiency varied between the treatments. Among the treatments, pendimethalin (1kg a.i./ha) as pre-emergence fb two hand weeding (T1) recorded highest per cent of weed control efficiency at 30, 60 and 90 DAS (96.0%, 92.8% and 91.3%, respectively). Similar recordings were also observed by Verma et al. (2017). The application of pyrazosulfuron ethyl (30g a.i./ha) as pre-emergence fb bispyribac sodium (40g a.i./ha) as early post-emergence fb one mechanical weeding (T6) was recorded the next best treatment at 60 and 90 DAS (92.5% and 91.2%, respectively). This indicated the broad-spectrum and longer period control of weeds by sequential application of herbicides and integrated management of weeds combined with mechanical weeding. Similar observation was also noted by Pinjari et al. (2016) and Soujanya et al. (2020). Two times hand weeded plots (T7)recorded better weed control efficiency at 30 DAS (95.9%), followed by the plots with sequential application of pyrazosulfuron ethyl, bispyribac sodium and mechanical weeding in order (T6) (95.5%). \r\nWeed control index. The weed control index was higher in the treatment of pyrazosulfuron ethyl (30g a.i./ha) as pre-emergence fb bispyribac sodium (40g a.i./ha) as early post-emergence fb one mechanical weeding (T6), at 30, 60 and 90 DAS with values of 95.8, 92.1 and 89.0, respectively. This was followed by the treatment, pendimethalin (1kg a.i./ha) as pre-emergence fb two hand weeding (T1) (95.9, 91.3 and 87.8, respectively). With these values, it was clear that the treatment of sequential application of herbicides with mechanical weeding had reduced the weed dry weight efficiently over the control plots (un-weeded check) Singh et al.(2018) also recorded similar observations. Among the treatments, two times mechanically weeded plots (T8) recorded very low weed control index at all the observations. \r\nWeed persistence index. Weed persistence index is a measure of persistence/resistance of the weeds that escaped the applied treatment, whose higher value indicates greater persistence and lower indicating less (Garko et al., 2020).The treatment of pyrazosulfuron ethyl (30g a.i./ha) as pre-emergence fb bispyribac sodium (40g a.i./ha) as early post-emergence fb one mechanical weeding (T6) had recorded lowest weed persistence values at 30 and 60 DAS (0.91 and 1.06, respectively) and at 90 DAS, the value was 1.25, which was similar to two hand weeding treatment. This indicated the lower persistence of weeds in these treatments. The results were in line with Mishra et al.(2016). \r\n','Kotresh D.J., S. Radhamani, P. Murali Arthanari, V. Ravichandran, C. Bharathi and Sangothari A. (2022). Effect of Integrated Weed Management Practices on Weed Parameters in Direct Seeded Aerobic Rice. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 14(2a): 539-544.'),(5204,'134','Evaluation of Consortium of Fungal and Bacterial Bio-control agents for Management of Rice Sheath Blight caused by Rhizoctonia solani','Sapna*, Roopali Sharma and Saurabh Dubey','90 Evaluation of Consortium of Fungal and Bacterial bio-controlagents for Management of Rice Sheath Blight caused by Rhizoctonia solani Sapna.pdf','',1,'Rice is one of the most important and staple food crop of world. India occupies an important place in the world and shares about 21% of global rice production. In spite of all the efforts of breeding for disease resistance, this crop is found prone to many diseases caused by fungi, bacteria, viruses, and nematodes have been reported out of them Sheath blight of rice caused by Rhizoctonia solani causes heavy losses ranges between 4-50%. To overcome the problem different management strategies are applied. Due to the side effects of chemical pesticides, sustainable crop production through eco-friendly management is essentially required in the current scenario. In biological control, genus Trichoderma and Pseudomonas serves as one of the best bioagents, which is found to be effective against a wide range of soil-borne, the present investigation has carried out to study the combining effect of fungal and bacterial biocontrol agents’ consortia as well as chemicals for reduction of rice sheath blight. Current study reveals that consortium is almost effective as carbendazim in sheath blight disease reduction as well as it promotes plant growth. ','Rice, Consortium, Sheath Blight, bioagents','The intensive investigation of field studies using potential fungal and bacterial biocontrol agents revealed that performance of consortia of (Trichoderma asperellum) + (Pseudomonas fluorescence) is better over using single isolate of biocontrol agent. Further, the studies also revealed that when the results were compared with the fungicide carbendazim which is being used by the farmers for the control of sheath blight, Consortium of biocontrol agents gave better performance in regard of plant vigour and yield or they were significantly at par with each other.\r\nThe experiment concluded that soil application, seed treatment, foliar spray, seedling dip all were effective in field condition. Application of the biocontrol agents by these methods proved that the maximum plant growth promotion and minimum disease severity percentage was observed in consortium. Therefore, it can be recommended that the use of potential consortia of biocontrol agents against sheath blight can be practiced at farmer’s field successfully. It is very important that the use of biocontrol agents is only successful when the product is having viable counts of spores as per recommendation and application methods are followed properly. Further, future studies can be taken up for the use of consortium of more than two isolates of fungal and bacterial biocontrol agents.\r\n','INTRODUCTION\r\nRice (Oryza sativa) belongs to the genus Oryza (Family: Poaceae) which includes two cultivated and more than 25 wild species. Rice (Oryza sativa L.) is one of the most important cereal crops for 70% of the world population. Over 90% of world’s rice is produced and consumed in the Asian region (Yadav and Singh 2006). India is the second largest producer and consumer of rice in the world and India shares around 21 per cent of global rice production from about 28 per cent of rice area. The area under rice cultivation in India accounts for 437.89 lakh hectare with an average production 112.91 MT and productivity of 2578 kg ha-1 (Department of Agriculture, Cooperation & Farmers Welfare 2017-18). In Uttarakhand, the annual rice production is around 5.5 lakh tonnes from an area of about 2.80 lakh hectares. Rice is cultivated in all the 13 districts of the Uttarakhand. Among the 13 districts, Udham Singh Nagar has maximum area (33%) and production about 48% of the total rice produced annually in the state (Rice knowledge Management Portal, D. R. R, 2013).\r\nDiseases are the major factors for reduction in crop yield of rice, among them sheath blight disease is major concern and it causes considerable losses in rice field. The estimation of losses due to sheath blight of rice in India has been reported to be up to 54.3% (Chahal et al., 2003). However, the yield losses ranging from 4-50% have been reported depending on the crop stage at the time of infection, severity of the disease and environmental conditions (Singh et al. 2004; Zheng et al. 2013; Bhukal et al. 2015). Richa et al. (2016) also reported that up to 50% of rice yield reduction was done by the sheath blight pathogen during favourable environmental condition. Different management strategies are applied for reduction of the sheath blight disease and among all strategies chemical control still performs better in disease reduction, but chemical control of sheath blight is expensive and non-sustainable. In the absence of suitable and effective management through chemicals, bio control agents may be exploited for the management of rice sheath blight. Disease management through eco-friendly fungal and bacterial antagonists are the need of today. In the present study, two bio control agents fungal and bacterial namely, Trichoderma spp. and Pseudomonas spp. which were earlier proved to be very effective to manage the disease in different parts of the country, were tested under field condition as soil and seed treatment with foliar spray and simultaneously compared with the effective chemicals to manage sheath blight disease.\r\nMATERIAL AND METHODS\r\nTo find out the effectiveness of consortium of biocontrol agents against sheath blight of rice, this experiment was conducted at Crop Research Centre (NEB-CRC) of G.B. Pant University of Agriculture and Technology, Pantnagar during 2019-2020. In this experiments, susceptible rice variety against sheath blight of rice Pant Dhan 4 was sown in randomized block design (RBD) with eleven treatments and three replications. The crop was raised in plots of 3 × 2 m2 area, keeping row to row and plant-to-plant distance of 30 cm × 10 cm. \r\nThe field experiment was conducted to evaluate the effect of four potential biocontrol agents in single and in consortium along with one standard check PBAT3 and one fungicide carbendazim in field condition. Formulation of Trichoderma asperellum and Pseudomonas fluorescence were applied in field in single and in consortium to study the effect of potential fungal and bacterial antagonist against the sheath blight disease of rice. The Field experiment was conducted with following treatments to test the efficacy of these treatments against rice sheath blight.\r\n\r\nMode of application of biocontrol agent isolates in single and in consortium was applied according to treatment in field. The different mode of application was: 1) Seed treatment with biocontrol agents in single and in consortium was done by mixing 10gm of biocontrol agents in 1kg of seeds before 24 hours of seed sowing 2) soil was treated with the biocontrol agents \r\n@10gm were mixed with vermicompost @100gm applied in each plot before15 days of transplanting soil, 3) In Seedling dip method the freshly uprooted seedlings were dipped in biocontrol agent suspension @ 10gm in 1 litre of water before 20-30 minutes of transplanting. 4) Foliar spray of biocontrol agents was done at three times; first spray of biocontrol agent was done at 30 days after sowing; the 2nd and 3rd spray was done at 45 days of interval.\r\nIn context to treated seeds with biocontrol agent in field conditions observation was recorded in term of both growth promotion and disease reduction. The disease severity and disease reduction percentage, increase in Plant vigor and Yield were recorded in field condition at 90-120 days after sowing.\r\nThe disease severity and disease reduction percentage were measured by given formula:\r\n\r\nDisease severity = (Lesion height )/(Total plant height)×100\r\nDisease reduction % = \r\n(Disease severity in control-Disease severity in treatment)/(Disease severity in control)×100\r\nThe statistical study of field experiment data was examined by RBD (randomized block design) with the help of OPSTAT software. The data found by OPSTAT were compared by means of critical difference at 5% level of significance.\r\nRESULT AND DISCUSSION\r\nThe present investigations were carried out on sheath blight disease of rice to test the effect of fungal and bacterial biocontrol agent formulations against sheath blight in rice, the experiment was conducted under field conditions at Crop Research Centre (CRC), Pantnagar. To test these biocontrol agents formulations, randomly block design RBD) was implemented in field condition on the area of 6 square meter (Plate 1). Total number of 11 treatments and each treatment having 3 replications were used in RBD. The rice variety Pant Dhan 4 which was suceptible for the disease was used to know the effect of consortium of biocontrol agents on disease reduction and plant growth promotion.\r\nIn recent years, similar attempts were also made to use a consortium of biological control of plant pathogens by Chakrabarti et al. (2018); Mishra et al. (2011); Singh et. al. (2010).\r\nEffect of biocontrol agents consortia on rice plant vigour. As these natural antagonist helps in disease management as well as plant growth promotion. The observation of the field experiment shows that the different biocontrol agents of fungal and bacterial isolates were effective in increasing number of tillers per plant and plant height.As the result shows that among all the treatments, biocontrol agents which were used in combination/consortia were more effective than the control and carbendazim. The experiment showed that the height of plant after 90 days of transplanting were maximum in case of consortia of PBAT3 (63.20cm), followed by Th17 + Psf173 (63.06cm), Th17 + Psf2 (63.00cm) and Th14 + Psf2 (61.95cm) which were significantly better than carbendazim (59.80cm) and control (57.94cm) (Table 1). Maximum number of tillers per plant after 90 days of transplanting was observed in the treatment of PBAT3 (18.66 tillers/hill), followed by Th17 + Psf173 (17.66 tillers/hill), Th17 + Psf2 (16.86 tillers/hill) and Th14 + Psf2 (16.86 tillers/hill) which were better than carbendazim (15.33 tillers/hill) and control (14.66 tillers/hill) (Table 1). Roy et al. (2015) also conducted a field experiment to assess the integrated management of M. phaseolina by application of three bioagents through seed treatment or soil application either single or in consortium with seed treating fungicide and found the similar results in context to increase in yield and reduction of disaese.\r\nEffect of biocontrol agents consortia on yield parameter of rice plant. Sheath blight is important disease as it reduces the yield of rice and also affects the quality of the grain. The experiment was conducted to know the effect of consortium of biocontrol agents on yield parameters. The observations showed in the (Table 2), the maximum yield per hactare was found in the PBAT3 (53.83q/ha), followed by Th17 + Psf173 (53.50q/ha), Th17 + Psf2 (53.33q/ha) and Th14 + Psf2 (53.33q/ha) which were significantly better than the carbendazim (50.00q/hac) and control (41q/hac). Biocontrol agents were also helpful for increasing test weight of the grain (1000grain weight). In the field experiment, data has been taken on test weight of grain and the maximum test weight was found in consortium of PBAT3 (28.51g), followed by Th17 + Psf173 (28.50g), Th17 + Psf2 (28.41g) and Th14 + Psf2 (28.29) which were significantly superior than the carbendazim (25.93g) and control (21.41g) (Table 2). The results of the consortium of biocontrol agents showed better performance over control and carbendazim. \r\nThis result is close confirmity with Khan and Sinha, (2007). The optimum dose of the bioagent was found to enhance the qualitative parameters such as number of tillers, plant hieght and grain yield reported by Doni et al. (2014); Khan and Sinha (2007); (Mathivanan et al. (2005).\r\nEffect of biocontrol agents consortia in single or in combination on disease severity and disease reduction percentage of rice plant. During the rice season the disease sheath blight was the major problem in rice field (Plate 1). The effect of the fungal and bacterial biocontrol agents on disease reduction percentage and disease severity percentage is showed in Table 3. The minimum disease severity percentage was recorded in the fungicide carbendazim (30.30%), followed by the consortium of PBAT3 (30.58%), Th17 + Psf173 (31.00%) and Th17 + Psf2 (31.29%) and Th14 + Psf2 (32.95%) which were significantly better than control (37.30%). The result of the disease reduction percentage was maximum in the fungicide carbendazim (18.76%), followed by the consortium of PBAT3 (18.00%), Th17 + Psf173 (16.89%), Th17 + Psf2 (16.11%) and Th14 + Psf2 (11.66). However, all the treatments were found superior as compared to control. The result showed that the fungal or bacterial isolates used in consortium or in alone were found as effective as carbendazim. Singh et al. (2010); Chakrabarti et al. (2018); Mathivanan et al. (2006) have also observed the similar finding earlier.\r\n','Sapna, Roopali Sharma and Saurabh Dubey (2022). Evaluation of Consortium of Fungal and Bacterial bio-control agents for Management of Rice Sheath Blight caused by Rhizoctonia solani. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 14(2a): 545-549.'),(5205,'134','Estimation of Heterosis for Yield and Yield Contributing Characters in Cowpea (Vigna ungiculata L.)','Shirisha K.*, N. Sandhyakishore, C.V. Sameer Kumar and M. Pallavi','91 Estimation of Heterosis for Yield and Yield Contributing Characters in Cowpea _Vigna ungiculata L._ Shirisha K.pdf','',1,'The present study was conducted by crossing nine divergent parents in Line × Tester mating design constituting of five lines and four testers to generate twenty F1 hybrids of cowpea. These hybrids were evaluated in randomised block design with three replications along with parents and two standard checks to estimate the extent of heterosis. The potency of heterosis breeding is enormous in terms of increasing the productivity of crops and could be used as indicative of crosses which are likely to generate productive cultivars. Heterosis was observed for all the traits viz., days to 50% flowering, days to maturity, plant height, number of branches per plant, No. of pods per plant, pod length, No. of seeds per pod, test weight and grain yield per plant were studied during the course of investigation. Appreciable magnitude of heterosis was expressed in hybrids for yield and yield related traits. The cross combinations viz.,WCP-1 × PMCP-1016; WCP-1 × VCP-18-032, CPD-311 × PMCP-1016, CPD-311 × KBC-12, CPD-311 × PMCP-1131, CPD-311 × VCP-18-032, CPD-313 × PMCP-1131, CPD-313 × VCP-18-032, PCP-1124 × PMCP-1016, PCP-1124 × KBC-12 for grain yield recorded significant positive standard heterosis. Thus these crosses can be exploited to obtain desirable transgressive segregants for yield and yield contributing traits which will pave the way for selection of individual progenies with optimal traits in further generations and ultimately for identification of high yielding genotypes in cowpea. Heterosis in yield attributes had a significant additive influence on seed yield per plant. It is mainly due to complementary combination of component traits viz., branches per plant, seeds per pod and 100 seed weight and seed yield per plant. ','Cowpea, Heterosis, Line × Tester mating design, economic heterosis','Thus from the present study it can be concluded that most of the hybrids exhibited significant heterosis for different traits along with grain yield over better parent / standard checks. The characters branches per plant, plant height, pod length, pods per plant, seeds per pod, pods per cluster and 100 seed weight largely define the seed yield of cowpea and hence should be prioritized in selection programmes in order to develop high yielding varieties and hybrids. ','INTRODUCTION\r\nCowpea (Vigna ungiculata L.) is a highly self pollinated multipurpose grain legume belonging to the family Papilionaceae with a chromosome number of 2n=22 and is native of central Africa. Its role as a crucial component of cropping systems in the world’s tropical and subtropical areas and its importance in being a nourishment legume can never be overemphasized (Fatokun et al., 2002; Sanchez-Navarro et al., 2019). Cowpea contains 20 to 25% protein content, which makes it attractive as a source of quality nourishment for both the rural and urban poor people (Fatokun et al., 2002; Uarrota, 2010; Ajayi et al., 2014). Because of its high protein content cowpea is referred to as “vegetable meat” and contains high grain and biological value on a dry weight basis. Cowpea is economically grown throughout India and is used for a variety of purposes such as pulse crop and for long green pods, fodder for the cattle, green manure and as a cover crop. Cowpea grows fast, curbs erosion, fixes atmospheric nitrogen (Ajayi & Adesoye 2013) and fertilizes the soil with its decaying residues after harvest (Singh et al., 2002). The nutrient rich Cowpea grains comprises of 23.4 per cent protein, 60.3 per cent carbohydrates, 1.8 per cent fat and is a good source of vitamins and phosphorus(Venkatesan et al., 2003). Cowpea is also valued for its low-fat content and high fibre content. \r\nHeterosis or hybrid vigour may be defined as the superiority of a F1 hybrid over both the parents in terms of yield and some other character (Shull, 1914). It is firstly reported in plants by Koelreuter (1766) in Nicotiana spp. Heterotic response for seed yield per plant was mainly due to high heterotic desirable effects for the yield attributing traits like plant height, branches per plant, pods per cluster, pods per plant, pod length and seed yield. The, information on heterosis estimates can be utilized to identify crosses that can result in superior transgressive segregants in the segregating generation. Heterosis for yield and other characters in grain legumes were first reported by Pal (1945).\r\nMATERIAL AND METHODS\r\nThe present experimental study was carried out in two seasons in which kharif, 2021 for crossing and Rabi, 2021-2022 for evaluation at the Regional Agricultural Research Station, Warangal. The experimental materials comprised of twenty hybrids generated from five high yielding lines viz., WCP-6, WCP-1, CDP-311, CDP-313, PCP-1124 and four broad based testers PMCP-1016, KBA-12, PMCP-1131 and VCP-18-032 which were crossed in Line x Tester mating design (5 lines x 4 testers) by conventional method of hybridization. The experimental design used was randomised block design design as suggested by (Nadarajan and Gunasekaran 2005) with three replications, while, L×T analysis of heterosis was performed as per Kempthorne (1957). Two standard check varieties (TPTC-29 & DC-15) were included in the experimental material to estimate standard heterosis. Heterosis was estimated by using the following formulae.\r\nHeterosis (%) (h1) = \r\nHeterobeltiosis (%) (h2) = \r\nStandard heterosis (%) (h3) = \r\nWhere, F1 = Mean performance of the F1 hybrid\r\n = Mean value of the parents (P1 and P2) of a hybrid\r\n = Mean value of better parent.\r\nRESULTS AND DISCUSSION\r\nThe analysis of variance (Table 3) deciphered substantial variations among the genotypes for all the characters studied, demonstrating the presence of variability in the material under study. All the characters studied exhibited considerable mid parent and better parent heterosis, either alone or in combination (Table 4).\r\nIn the present study, the heterosis for days to 50 % flowering ranged from -32.20% to 8.93% and -34.07% to 5.59% over mid parent and better parent, respectively, while for standard heterosis it ranged from -23.08% to 21.15% and -29.41% to 11.18% over both the checks. The cross PCP-1124 × PMCP-1131 exhibited superior negative significant heterosis over mid parent (-32.20%) and PCP-1124 × PMCP-1131 for better parent (-34.07%), while the cross PCP-1124 × PMCP-1131 exhibited negative significant standard heterosis over both the checks (-23.08% to -29.41%) respectively. Similar results were obtained by Ushakumari et al. (2010); Kadam et al. (2013); Anitha et al. (2016); Mukati et al. (2016).\r\nThe heterosis for days to maturity ranged from -21.60 to 4.81% over mid parent, whereas over better parent, it ranged from to 3.30% and standard heterosis from -16.92% to 10.00% and -20.59% to 5.15% over both checks respectively. Significant negative heterosis in desired direction over mid parent was observed in 15 crosses. The hybrid PCP-1124 × PMCP-1131 (-21.60 %) exhibited the highest significant negative heterosis over mid parent. Sixteen crosses exhibited significant negative heterosis over better parent. Negative heterosis for days to maturity were in agreement with Sharma et al. (2010 ); Ajayi et al. (2014); Mukati et al. (2016) for early maturity.\r\nThe heterosis for plant height ranged from – 19.44 to 45.83 per cent and -20.56 to 28.05 per cent over mid and better parents, respectively. Three crosses showed significant negative heterosis over mid parent, while five crosses over better parent. The cross, PCP-1124 × VCP-18-032 (-19.44) exhibited the lowest significant heterosis over mid parent. Standard heterosis ranged from -17.58% to 27.27% and -20.00 to 23.53% over both the checks. Standard heterosis was significant and positive in the cross combinations CPD-313 ×PMCP-1016 , CPD-313 × PMCP-1131, PCP-1124 × KBC-12&PCP-1124 × VCP-18-032 over the check TPTC-29 andWCP-6 × KBC-12 CPD-313 × PMCP-1016, CPD-313 × PMCP-1131, PCP-1124 × KBC-12 and PCP-1124 × VCP-18-032 over the check DC-15 Similar results were reported by Sharma et al.(2010); Katariya et al. 2016; Sanchez-Navarro et al.(2019).\r\nThe range of heterosis for branches per plant was from -30.71 to 69.97 per cent and -46.99 to 54.65 per cent over mid and better parents, respectively. Eleven and four crosses manifested significant positive heterosis over both mid and better parents. The cross WCP-1 × PMCP-1131(69.977 %) and (54.65 %) manifested the maximum significant positive relative heterosis and heterobeltiosis, respectively. Standard heterosis ranged from -30.88% to 33.33% (CPD-311 × PMCP-1016) Over both the checks ( TPTC-29 & DC-15)Similar results were reported by Bhusana et al.(2000); Mehta (2000); Hira Lal et al. (2007); Patel et al. (2009); Sharma et al.(2010).\r\nThe pods per plant is an important yield contributing character for which the heterosis ranged from -15.50 to 96.60 per cent and -32.35 to 88.14 per cent over mid and better parents, respectively. Significant positive heterosis over midparent was recorded for 12 crosses and over better parents was recorded for nine crosses. The crosses, CPD-311 × PMCP-1016 (96.60 %) and CPD-313 × KBC-12 (88.14 %) showed maximum significant positive relative heterosis and heterobeltiosis, respectively. Standard heterosis ranged from -20.59% (WCP-6 × KBC-12) to 126.47% and -25.00% (WCP-6 × KBC-12) to 113.89% over both the checks. Bhushana et al. (2000); Yadav et al. (2010); Chaudhari et al. (2013; Katariya et al. (2016); Sarath et al. (2017) also reported similar results.\r\nThe crosses WCP-1 × KBC-12 (24.87 %) and PCP-1124 × VCP-18-032 (18.99 %) manifested significant positive relative heterosis and heterobeltiosis, respectively for pod length and range for this trait was -28.71 to 24.87 per cent and -40.49 to 18.99 per cent over mid and better parents, respectively. Heterosis over mid parent was significant and positive in 6 hybrids, heterobeltiosis in only one hybrid WCP-1 × KBC-12 and standard heterosis in 8 and 10 hybrids crosses (TPTC-29 & DC-15). The range of heterosis was from -24.37 to 41.19 per cent and -30.10 to 35.48 per cent over mid and better parents, respectively for number of seeds per pod. Ten crosses manifested significant positive heterosis over mid parent and seven crosses over better parent for number of seeds per pod. Maximum significant positive heterosis was recorded by WCP-1 × PMCP-1016 i.e. 41.19 % and 35.48 % over mid and better parent respectively for this trait and standard heterosis ranged from -13.87% to 64.45% and -28.71 % to 36.12 % over both the checks. \r\nThe heterosis for number of pods per cluster ranged from -40.19% to 105.79% over mid parent, While, heterobeltiosis ranged from -53.03% to 93.02% and standard heterosis ranged from -25.60% to 99.20% over TPTC-29 and -21.85% to 109.24% over DC-15 . The cross CPD-311 × PMCP-1016manifested the maximum significant positive relative heterosis and heterobeltiosis of 105.79% and 93.02 % respectively. Similar results were reported by Yadav et al. (2010); Sharma et al. (2013); Kadam et al. (2013).\r\n For 100 seed weight relative heterosis ranged from -13.92% to 100.96%, heterobeltiosis from -26.20 to 77.92% and standard heterosis from 0.55% to 61.43% and -9.17 to 45.83% for this trait. Twelve crosses exhibited significant positive heterosis over mid parent and 8 over better parent. Among which cross WCP-1 × PMCP-1016 (100.96% and 77.92%) recorded maximum positive heterosis and heterobeltiosis. Similar observations were made by Bhushana et al. (2000); Patel et al. (2009); Kadam et al. (2013); Sanchez-Navarro et al. (2019).\r\nFor grain yield per plant twelve crosses expressed significant positive heterobeltiosis and eleven hybrids were found promising on both the standard checks with significant positive standard heterosis. The cross combinations are WCP-1 × PMCP-1016; WCP-1 × VCP-18-032, CPD-311 × PMCP-1016, CPD-311 × KBC-12, CPD-311 × PMCP-1131, CPD-311 × VCP-18-032, CPD-313 × PMCP-1131, CPD-313 × VCP-18-032, PCP-1124 × PMCP-1016, PCP-1124 × KBC-12.Thus from the present study it can be concluded that most of the hybrids exhibited significant heterosis for different traits along with grain yield over better parent / standard checks. The genotypes viz., WCP-1, CPD-311, CPD-313, PCP-1124 among lines and PMCP-1016, VCP 18-032, PMCP-1016 and KBC-12 among the testers as one of the parents will provide the basic material for breeding programme for further improvement in yield and yield contributing traits in cowpea. Thus these crosses may offer higher frequency of productive derivatives in their later generations.\r\n \r\n','Shirisha K., N. Sandhyakishore, C.V. Sameer Kumar and M. Pallavi (2022). Estimation of Heterosis for Yield and Yield Contributing Characters in Cowpea (Vigna ungiculata L.). Biological Forum – An International Journal, 14(2a): 550-556.'),(5206,'134','Characterization of Soybean [Glycine max (L.) Merrill] Genotypes based on DUS Traits','R.C. Sivabharathi*, A. Muthuswamy, K. Anandhi and L. Karthiba','92 Characterization of Soybean [Glycine max _L._ Merrill] Genotypes based on DUS Traits K. Anandhi.pdf','',1,'The challenge in the present study is to characterize the sixty-nine soybean genotypes based on the DUS test given by PPV&FR for the fourteen qualitative and four quantitative traits. The qualitative traits include anthocyanin pigmentation on hypocotyl, plant growth type, leaf shape, leaf colour, plant growth habit, flower colour, pod pubescence colour, pod colour, seed shape, seed colour, seed lustre, seed hilum colour, presence and absence pod pubescence and seed cotyledon colour and the quantitative traits are days to 50% flowering, plant height, days to maturity and seed size. Pod pubescence and seed cotyledon were found to be a monomorphic trait for all the sixty-nine genotypes. The study revealed that flower colour and hypocotyl pigmentation were found to be directly linked. JS 95-60 and MACS 29 were two genotypes observed as late flowering. PK 1024 was the only genotype with lancealote leaf shape. Cluster analysis depicted that the 69 genotypes could be grouped into four major clusters each with two sub clusters. The similarity coefficient ranges from 0.75 to 0.77. The genotypes in cluster I and IV were observed to have wide variation. Thus, the contribution of this research will help the researchers to utilize the genotypes in cluster I and cluster IV for the crop improvement programmes.','Cluster, Dendrogram, Descriptors, DUS, Qualitative traits','Among the 69 soybean genotypes studied, the genotypes CO 2, NRC 147, MAUS 71-07, MACS 1259, MACS 985, JS 20-01, NRC 2007-K-7-2, JS 20-09, MACS 1281, WC 67, PK 768, MAUS 52-1, JS (SH) 8554, MAUS 417, VLS 70, NRC 78 and PK 1303 from cluster I grouped under sub cluster I and the genotypes NRC 132, NRC 2007-G-1-13 and PK 257 in cluster IV in both the sub clusters were found to have wide variation. This study also revealed that traits viz., flower colour, hypocotyl colour, presence and absence of pod pubescence and seed cotyledon colour were found to be reliable. The remaining traits can be focused for the distinctness of the genotypes. Thus, the present study could be used for the selection of reference varieties for DUS testing of new soybean genotypes. In addition, genotypes with wide variation can be used as parent for crop improvement programmes.','INTRODUCTION\r\nSoybean [Glycine max (L.) Merrill] is called “Miracle crop” or “Golden bean” because it contributes significantly as both oilseed and leguminous crop in terms of total production and international trade (Chung and Singh 2008). It belongs to the family Fabaceae and subfamily Papilionaceae. World soybean production in 2021 – 22 is estimated as 385.527 million tonnes. Brazil ranks first in soybean production with 144 million tonnes followed by the United States, Argentina, China and India (Anonymous, 2022a). Production in India accounts 12.90 million tonnes cultivated under 12.81 million hectares with the productivity of 1007 kg/ha in 2020-21 (Anonymous, 2021). Madhya Pradesh and Maharashtra contributes 89 per cent of soybean production in India. In 2021-22, the world production volume of soybean oil amounted to 60.27 million metric tonnes (Anonymous, 2022b). This demonstrates that soybean oil production is rising quickly around the world as a result of its high nutritional value as a food source for both people and livestock, as well as its importance as a source of edible oil with industrial applications. Soy seeds contain 38–43 per cent protein, while 17–19 per cent oil (Chung and Singh 2008). Furthermore, 100g of soybeans had 432 calories, 10.5g of fat, and 426mg of vitamins (A, B, and D). In addition to this, soybean also contains 240mg of calcium, 690mg of phosphorus, and 11.5mg of iron (Nagraj, 1995). \r\nThe characterization based on distinctness, uniformity, stability and novelty is prerequisite. The varietal characterization of a genotype should be precisely explained, accepted and should have standard method of observation. In addition, it should be least or less affected by the environment (Raut, 2003). Emphasis on characterization, varietal identification and genetic purity assessment of soybean genotypes is very important to the field functionaries, certification officers, seed production officers and seed growers for regulating quality of the seed. It is also favorable for plant breeder to assess relationship between yield and its various components, which will facilitate selection of desirable characteristics (Jain et al., 2015). Identification of genotypes based on morphological characteristics is the most extensively used method. In case of no variation observed among the genotypes with qualitative traits, quantitative traits can be taken into observation to get precise results (Raut, 2003). Therefore, the present study is focused on the characterization of soybean genotypes for both qualitative and quantitative traits. The quantitative and qualitative data were analyzed by GGT 2.0 Software (Kujane et al., 2019). The dendrogram was constructed using UPGMA tree clustering (Ramteke et al., 2015). In this aspect, genotypes with similar traits were grouped into single cluster based on qualitative and quantitative traits which can be used for the selection of genotypes with wide variation for the future breeding programmes.\r\nMATERIALS AND METHODS\r\nThe present study was carried out at the Department of Pulses, Tamil Nadu Agricultural University, Coimbatore during rabi, 2021-22 using augmented block design II. The experimental plot was at the latitude of 11.0232 °N, the longitude of 76.9293 °E and the altitude at 426.72m above MSL. Each genotype was raised in 3m length with spacing of 30 × 10cm. The experiment was carried out with 69 genotypes enlisted in Table 1, including five check varieties viz., NRC 132, NRC 142, NRC 147, MACS 1460 and CO (Soy) 3. Observations were recorded for fourteen qualitative traits and four quantitative traits. The qualitative traits were anthocyanin pigmentation on hypocotyls, plant growth type, leaf shape, leaf colour, plant growth habit, flower colour, pod pubescence colour, pod colour, seed shape, seed colour, seed lustre, seed hilum colour, presence and absence of pod pubescence and seed cotyledon colour and the quantitative traits were days to 50 per cent flowering, plant height, days to maturity and seed size (Table 2). The genotypes were evaluated for each trait based on note values of the DUS characters as per the Protection of Plant Varieties and Farmers Rights, 2001 (Table 3). The eighteen traits of 69 genotypes were subjected to cluster analysis using GGT 2.0 software (Kujane et al., 2019).\r\nRESULT AND DISCUSSION\r\nDUS characterization: Based on DUS guidelines as per PPV&FR (2001), fourteen qualitative and four quantitative traits were visually scored for 69 genotypes. Among eighteen traits, two were monomorphic viz., seed cotyledon colour and pod pubescence and showed no variation for all the 69 genotypes. Eight traits were dimorphic and remaining eight were polymorphic in nature. Dhaliwal et al. (2020) also reported that out of 19 traits observed in soybean, only one trait viz., plant growth type was monomorphic, nine traits were dimorphic and remaining nine traits were polymorphic. In the present study, flower colour and hypocotyl pigmentation were found to be correlated. Gupta et al. (2010) also observed correlation with flower colour and anthocyanin pigmentation in soybean. All the non-pigmented hypocotyls exhibited white flowers whereas all the pigmented hypocotyls exhibited purple flowers. In contrast, bronze band pigmentation on hypocotyls with certain white flowers when grown on continuous light was observed in soybean by Payne and Sundermeyer (1977). Studies on quantitative traits were also made by Karnwal and Singh (2009); Ramteke et al. (2012). The eighteen traits were observed at six different stages viz., cotyledon stage, flowering stage (about 50 percent plants have at least one opened flower), pod setting stage (about 70 percent of pods attained full length 30-50 mm), advance ripening stage (about 50 percent of pods are ripe), full maturity stage (about 90 per cent pods are ripe) and post harvesting stage. \r\nFloral characters: All the genotypes except NRC 2006-M-6, NRC 2007-G-1-13, NRC 79, PK 257, JS 97-52, JS 98-68, MACS 1188, NRC 132 and MACS 1460 bore white flowers and had no pigmentation in hypocotyl and remaining genotypes bore purple flowers and had pigmentation in hypocotyl (Fig. 1, 2). Six gene controls flower colour while two genes control pubescence colour in soybean was reported by Palmer et al. (2004); Takahashi et al. (2008). \r\nGrowth characters: Erect type was displayed in most of the genotypes, except CO 2, JS 20-09, JS 98-68, MACS 1188, NRC 2007-G-1-13, NRC 2007-K-7-2, NRC 78, NRC 79, PK 1303, NRC 142, NRC 147 and MACS 1460 that had semi-erect type growth habit (Fig. 3). Singh et al. (2021) grouped all the seven released soybean varieties of Himachal Pradesh used in his study under tall stature category. But in our present study, there is a variation in the plant height among the 69 genotypes. Out of 69 genotypes, only one genotype JS 98-61 was observed as tall statured, 29 were noted as medium statured and 39 genotypes were of short stature. Plant growth type is classified into 3 categories viz., determinate, semi-determinate and indeterminate. Determinate type was found in 15 genotypes, semi-determinate in 24 genotypes and indeterminate in 30 genotypes. Days to 50 per cent flowering was observed to be dimorphic. MACS 1460 exhibited early flowering, 66 genotypes were with medium type of flowering and remaining two genotypes viz., JS 95-60 and MACS 629 were observed as late. Early maturing type was observed in 50 genotypes, medium maturing was observed in 18 genotypes and CSB 0811 was the only genotype categorized as late maturing type. Cober and Morrison (2010) reported that days to maturity and time to flowering is controlled by eight loci each with two alleles in soybean.\r\nLeaf characters: Leaf shape was observed to be polymorphic trait. PK 1024 was the only genotype with lancealote leaf shape, 59 genotypes had pointed-ovate shape and nine genotypes had rounded ovate leaf shape. \r\nThis shows that the variation in the leaf shape was mainly observed between rounded ovate and pointed ovate leaf (Fig. 4). Similar observation in leaf shape of soybean was found by Gupta et al. (2010). Green leaf colour was displayed by majority of the genotypes except MACS 1188, MAUS 417, NRC 78, NRC 79, WC 67, PK 1303 and CO (Soy) 3 which were with dark green coloured leaves.\r\nPod characters: Pod pubescence was found to be monomorphic and all the genotypes were observed with pubescence. Almost 50 genotypes had brown pod colour, 13 genotypes had yellow pod colour and the remaining genotypes viz., VLS 69, MAUS 60, MAUS 61, VLS 70, PK 1038 and MACS 1460 had black pod colour. Majority of the genotypes had tawny pod pubescence colour except CO 2, JS 20-09, JS 98-68, MACS 1188, MACS 1259, MACS 1281, MACS 985, NRC 78, NRC 79, PK 1303 and MACS 1460 which were with grey pubescence.\r\nSeed characters: Seed traits are crucial for DUS characterization as these are less influenced by the environment and are thus stable. Across the varying climatic zones, hair colour, flower colour and seed colour in soybean were reported to be the most stable characters by Satyavathi et al. (2004). Five seed traits viz., seed size, seed shape, seed coat colour, seed lustre and seed cotyledon colour were noted in the present study and these traits were observed at post harvesting stage. Among the seed traits, seed size and seed hilum colour were polymorphic; seed shape, seed coat colour and seed lustre were dimorphic; and seed cotyledon colour was monomorphic in nature. Seed size was computed on the basis of hundred seed weight. Large-sized seed was observed in only one genotype viz., PK 257, medium sized seed was observed in 30 genotypes and small-sized seed was observed in 38 genotypes. Forty-one genotypes exhibited spherical shaped seeds and the remaining genotypes exhibited elliptical shaped seeds. EC 18736 was the only genotype with black seed coat and remaining 68 genotypes exhibited yellow seed coat (Fig. 5). Ramteke et al. (2012) also observed the same type of variation in seed coat of soybean. Difference in seed coat within a species can usually be linked to variation in chromosome number or some aspect of gross morphology in soybean (Newell and Hymowitz, 1978). Seed hilum colour is highly stable and in the present study, three out of five designated classes of hilum colour were observed. MACS 1259, NRC 78, NRC 79, PK 1303 and MACS 1460 were the genotypes with grey hilum, 50 genotypes had brown hilum and fourteen genotypes had black hilum (Fig. 6). Yadav and Sharma (2001) also reported the variation in hilum colour in soybean. Morphological observations for seed lustre were observed to be shiny for all the soybean cultivars reported by Pawale et al. (2019). But in this study shiny seeds were observed in 45 genotypes and dull seeds were observed 24 genotypes.\r\nCluster analysis: Among the genotypes studied, few genotypes were distinct as they could be classified based on a single trait while majority of the genotypes were closely related. The similarity coefficient ranged from 0.81 to 0.82. Ranjani and Jayamani (2021) grouped 68 pigeonpea genotypes at an average similarity of 80%. The 69 genotypes were grouped into four clusters using UPGMA dendrogram in GGT 2.0 software (Fig. 7). Dhaliwal et al. (2020) also reported four clusters in grouping 22 soybean lines for 19 characters. The trait contributing for first grouping was anthocyanin pigmentation and flower colour. The first cluster had 39 genotypes that were subdivided into two sub clusters. The first sub cluster had 17 genotypes and these genotypes were very similar to each other for eight traits and varied for ten traits. The second sub cluster had 22 genotypes were found to be similar to each other for ten traits and showed variation for eight traits.\r\nThe second cluster had 21 genotypes that were subdivided into two sub clusters. The first sub cluster had only one genotype EC 18736. The second sub cluster had 20 genotypes and was very similar to each other for seven traits and showed variation for eleven other traits. The third cluster had two sub clusters. The first sub cluster had JS 97-52 and NRC 2007-G-1-13 and had 13 similar traits and varied for five traits. The second sub cluster had JS 98-68, MACS 1188, NRC 79 and MACS 1460 and had 12 similar traits and differed for six traits. The fourth cluster had three genotypes that were further divided into two subcultures. Sub cluster I had two genotypes viz., NRC 132 and NRC 2007-G-1-13 and these two genotypes had thirteen similar traits and varied for five traits. The sub cluster II had one genotype viz., PK 257. \r\n\r\n','R.C. Sivabharathi, A. Muthuswamy, K. Anandhi and L. Karthiba (2022). Characterization of Soybean [Glycine max (L.) Merrill] Genotypes based on DUS Traits. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 14(2a): 557-564.'),(5207,'134','Characterization of Soybean [Glycine max (L.) Merrill] Genotypes based on DUS Traits','R.C. Sivabharathi*, A. Muthuswamy, K. Anandhi and L. Karthiba','92 Characterization of Soybean [Glycine max _L._ Merrill] Genotypes based on DUS Traits K. Anandhi.pdf','',4,'The challenge in the present study is to characterize the sixty-nine soybean genotypes based on the DUS test given by PPV&FR for the fourteen qualitative and four quantitative traits. The qualitative traits include anthocyanin pigmentation on hypocotyl, plant growth type, leaf shape, leaf colour, plant growth habit, flower colour, pod pubescence colour, pod colour, seed shape, seed colour, seed lustre, seed hilum colour, presence and absence pod pubescence and seed cotyledon colour and the quantitative traits are days to 50% flowering, plant height, days to maturity and seed size. Pod pubescence and seed cotyledon were found to be a monomorphic trait for all the sixty-nine genotypes. The study revealed that flower colour and hypocotyl pigmentation were found to be directly linked. JS 95-60 and MACS 29 were two genotypes observed as late flowering. PK 1024 was the only genotype with lancealote leaf shape. Cluster analysis depicted that the 69 genotypes could be grouped into four major clusters each with two sub clusters. The similarity coefficient ranges from 0.75 to 0.77. The genotypes in cluster I and IV were observed to have wide variation. Thus, the contribution of this research will help the researchers to utilize the genotypes in cluster I and cluster IV for the crop improvement programmes.','Cluster, Dendrogram, Descriptors, DUS, Qualitative traits','Among the 69 soybean genotypes studied, the genotypes CO 2, NRC 147, MAUS 71-07, MACS 1259, MACS 985, JS 20-01, NRC 2007-K-7-2, JS 20-09, MACS 1281, WC 67, PK 768, MAUS 52-1, JS (SH) 8554, MAUS 417, VLS 70, NRC 78 and PK 1303 from cluster I grouped under sub cluster I and the genotypes NRC 132, NRC 2007-G-1-13 and PK 257 in cluster IV in both the sub clusters were found to have wide variation. This study also revealed that traits viz., flower colour, hypocotyl colour, presence and absence of pod pubescence and seed cotyledon colour were found to be reliable. The remaining traits can be focused for the distinctness of the genotypes. Thus, the present study could be used for the selection of reference varieties for DUS testing of new soybean genotypes. In addition, genotypes with wide variation can be used as parent for crop improvement programmes.','INTRODUCTION\r\nSoybean [Glycine max (L.) Merrill] is called “Miracle crop” or “Golden bean” because it contributes significantly as both oilseed and leguminous crop in terms of total production and international trade (Chung and Singh 2008). It belongs to the family Fabaceae and subfamily Papilionaceae. World soybean production in 2021 – 22 is estimated as 385.527 million tonnes. Brazil ranks first in soybean production with 144 million tonnes followed by the United States, Argentina, China and India (Anonymous, 2022a). Production in India accounts 12.90 million tonnes cultivated under 12.81 million hectares with the productivity of 1007 kg/ha in 2020-21 (Anonymous, 2021). Madhya Pradesh and Maharashtra contributes 89 per cent of soybean production in India. In 2021-22, the world production volume of soybean oil amounted to 60.27 million metric tonnes (Anonymous, 2022b). This demonstrates that soybean oil production is rising quickly around the world as a result of its high nutritional value as a food source for both people and livestock, as well as its importance as a source of edible oil with industrial applications. Soy seeds contain 38–43 per cent protein, while 17–19 per cent oil (Chung and Singh 2008). Furthermore, 100g of soybeans had 432 calories, 10.5g of fat, and 426mg of vitamins (A, B, and D). In addition to this, soybean also contains 240mg of calcium, 690mg of phosphorus, and 11.5mg of iron (Nagraj, 1995). \r\nThe characterization based on distinctness, uniformity, stability and novelty is prerequisite. The varietal characterization of a genotype should be precisely explained, accepted and should have standard method of observation. In addition, it should be least or less affected by the environment (Raut, 2003). Emphasis on characterization, varietal identification and genetic purity assessment of soybean genotypes is very important to the field functionaries, certification officers, seed production officers and seed growers for regulating quality of the seed. It is also favorable for plant breeder to assess relationship between yield and its various components, which will facilitate selection of desirable characteristics (Jain et al., 2015). Identification of genotypes based on morphological characteristics is the most extensively used method. In case of no variation observed among the genotypes with qualitative traits, quantitative traits can be taken into observation to get precise results (Raut, 2003). Therefore, the present study is focused on the characterization of soybean genotypes for both qualitative and quantitative traits. The quantitative and qualitative data were analyzed by GGT 2.0 Software (Kujane et al., 2019). The dendrogram was constructed using UPGMA tree clustering (Ramteke et al., 2015). In this aspect, genotypes with similar traits were grouped into single cluster based on qualitative and quantitative traits which can be used for the selection of genotypes with wide variation for the future breeding programmes.\r\nMATERIALS AND METHODS\r\nThe present study was carried out at the Department of Pulses, Tamil Nadu Agricultural University, Coimbatore during rabi, 2021-22 using augmented block design II. The experimental plot was at the latitude of 11.0232 °N, the longitude of 76.9293 °E and the altitude at 426.72m above MSL. Each genotype was raised in 3m length with spacing of 30 × 10cm. The experiment was carried out with 69 genotypes enlisted in Table 1, including five check varieties viz., NRC 132, NRC 142, NRC 147, MACS 1460 and CO (Soy) 3. Observations were recorded for fourteen qualitative traits and four quantitative traits. The qualitative traits were anthocyanin pigmentation on hypocotyls, plant growth type, leaf shape, leaf colour, plant growth habit, flower colour, pod pubescence colour, pod colour, seed shape, seed colour, seed lustre, seed hilum colour, presence and absence of pod pubescence and seed cotyledon colour and the quantitative traits were days to 50 per cent flowering, plant height, days to maturity and seed size (Table 2). The genotypes were evaluated for each trait based on note values of the DUS characters as per the Protection of Plant Varieties and Farmers Rights, 2001 (Table 3). The eighteen traits of 69 genotypes were subjected to cluster analysis using GGT 2.0 software (Kujane et al., 2019).\r\nRESULT AND DISCUSSION\r\nDUS characterization: Based on DUS guidelines as per PPV&FR (2001), fourteen qualitative and four quantitative traits were visually scored for 69 genotypes. Among eighteen traits, two were monomorphic viz., seed cotyledon colour and pod pubescence and showed no variation for all the 69 genotypes. Eight traits were dimorphic and remaining eight were polymorphic in nature. Dhaliwal et al. (2020) also reported that out of 19 traits observed in soybean, only one trait viz., plant growth type was monomorphic, nine traits were dimorphic and remaining nine traits were polymorphic. In the present study, flower colour and hypocotyl pigmentation were found to be correlated. Gupta et al. (2010) also observed correlation with flower colour and anthocyanin pigmentation in soybean. All the non-pigmented hypocotyls exhibited white flowers whereas all the pigmented hypocotyls exhibited purple flowers. In contrast, bronze band pigmentation on hypocotyls with certain white flowers when grown on continuous light was observed in soybean by Payne and Sundermeyer (1977). Studies on quantitative traits were also made by Karnwal and Singh (2009); Ramteke et al. (2012). The eighteen traits were observed at six different stages viz., cotyledon stage, flowering stage (about 50 percent plants have at least one opened flower), pod setting stage (about 70 percent of pods attained full length 30-50 mm), advance ripening stage (about 50 percent of pods are ripe), full maturity stage (about 90 per cent pods are ripe) and post harvesting stage. \r\nFloral characters: All the genotypes except NRC 2006-M-6, NRC 2007-G-1-13, NRC 79, PK 257, JS 97-52, JS 98-68, MACS 1188, NRC 132 and MACS 1460 bore white flowers and had no pigmentation in hypocotyl and remaining genotypes bore purple flowers and had pigmentation in hypocotyl (Fig. 1, 2). Six gene controls flower colour while two genes control pubescence colour in soybean was reported by Palmer et al. (2004); Takahashi et al. (2008). \r\nGrowth characters: Erect type was displayed in most of the genotypes, except CO 2, JS 20-09, JS 98-68, MACS 1188, NRC 2007-G-1-13, NRC 2007-K-7-2, NRC 78, NRC 79, PK 1303, NRC 142, NRC 147 and MACS 1460 that had semi-erect type growth habit (Fig. 3). Singh et al. (2021) grouped all the seven released soybean varieties of Himachal Pradesh used in his study under tall stature category. But in our present study, there is a variation in the plant height among the 69 genotypes. Out of 69 genotypes, only one genotype JS 98-61 was observed as tall statured, 29 were noted as medium statured and 39 genotypes were of short stature. Plant growth type is classified into 3 categories viz., determinate, semi-determinate and indeterminate. Determinate type was found in 15 genotypes, semi-determinate in 24 genotypes and indeterminate in 30 genotypes. Days to 50 per cent flowering was observed to be dimorphic. MACS 1460 exhibited early flowering, 66 genotypes were with medium type of flowering and remaining two genotypes viz., JS 95-60 and MACS 629 were observed as late. Early maturing type was observed in 50 genotypes, medium maturing was observed in 18 genotypes and CSB 0811 was the only genotype categorized as late maturing type. Cober and Morrison (2010) reported that days to maturity and time to flowering is controlled by eight loci each with two alleles in soybean.\r\nLeaf characters: Leaf shape was observed to be polymorphic trait. PK 1024 was the only genotype with lancealote leaf shape, 59 genotypes had pointed-ovate shape and nine genotypes had rounded ovate leaf shape. \r\nThis shows that the variation in the leaf shape was mainly observed between rounded ovate and pointed ovate leaf (Fig. 4). Similar observation in leaf shape of soybean was found by Gupta et al. (2010). Green leaf colour was displayed by majority of the genotypes except MACS 1188, MAUS 417, NRC 78, NRC 79, WC 67, PK 1303 and CO (Soy) 3 which were with dark green coloured leaves.\r\nPod characters: Pod pubescence was found to be monomorphic and all the genotypes were observed with pubescence. Almost 50 genotypes had brown pod colour, 13 genotypes had yellow pod colour and the remaining genotypes viz., VLS 69, MAUS 60, MAUS 61, VLS 70, PK 1038 and MACS 1460 had black pod colour. Majority of the genotypes had tawny pod pubescence colour except CO 2, JS 20-09, JS 98-68, MACS 1188, MACS 1259, MACS 1281, MACS 985, NRC 78, NRC 79, PK 1303 and MACS 1460 which were with grey pubescence.\r\nSeed characters: Seed traits are crucial for DUS characterization as these are less influenced by the environment and are thus stable. Across the varying climatic zones, hair colour, flower colour and seed colour in soybean were reported to be the most stable characters by Satyavathi et al. (2004). Five seed traits viz., seed size, seed shape, seed coat colour, seed lustre and seed cotyledon colour were noted in the present study and these traits were observed at post harvesting stage. Among the seed traits, seed size and seed hilum colour were polymorphic; seed shape, seed coat colour and seed lustre were dimorphic; and seed cotyledon colour was monomorphic in nature. Seed size was computed on the basis of hundred seed weight. Large-sized seed was observed in only one genotype viz., PK 257, medium sized seed was observed in 30 genotypes and small-sized seed was observed in 38 genotypes. Forty-one genotypes exhibited spherical shaped seeds and the remaining genotypes exhibited elliptical shaped seeds. EC 18736 was the only genotype with black seed coat and remaining 68 genotypes exhibited yellow seed coat (Fig. 5). Ramteke et al. (2012) also observed the same type of variation in seed coat of soybean. Difference in seed coat within a species can usually be linked to variation in chromosome number or some aspect of gross morphology in soybean (Newell and Hymowitz, 1978). Seed hilum colour is highly stable and in the present study, three out of five designated classes of hilum colour were observed. MACS 1259, NRC 78, NRC 79, PK 1303 and MACS 1460 were the genotypes with grey hilum, 50 genotypes had brown hilum and fourteen genotypes had black hilum (Fig. 6). Yadav and Sharma (2001) also reported the variation in hilum colour in soybean. Morphological observations for seed lustre were observed to be shiny for all the soybean cultivars reported by Pawale et al. (2019). But in this study shiny seeds were observed in 45 genotypes and dull seeds were observed 24 genotypes.\r\nCluster analysis: Among the genotypes studied, few genotypes were distinct as they could be classified based on a single trait while majority of the genotypes were closely related. The similarity coefficient ranged from 0.81 to 0.82. Ranjani and Jayamani (2021) grouped 68 pigeonpea genotypes at an average similarity of 80%. The 69 genotypes were grouped into four clusters using UPGMA dendrogram in GGT 2.0 software (Fig. 7). Dhaliwal et al. (2020) also reported four clusters in grouping 22 soybean lines for 19 characters. The trait contributing for first grouping was anthocyanin pigmentation and flower colour. The first cluster had 39 genotypes that were subdivided into two sub clusters. The first sub cluster had 17 genotypes and these genotypes were very similar to each other for eight traits and varied for ten traits. The second sub cluster had 22 genotypes were found to be similar to each other for ten traits and showed variation for eight traits.\r\nThe second cluster had 21 genotypes that were subdivided into two sub clusters. The first sub cluster had only one genotype EC 18736. The second sub cluster had 20 genotypes and was very similar to each other for seven traits and showed variation for eleven other traits. The third cluster had two sub clusters. The first sub cluster had JS 97-52 and NRC 2007-G-1-13 and had 13 similar traits and varied for five traits. The second sub cluster had JS 98-68, MACS 1188, NRC 79 and MACS 1460 and had 12 similar traits and differed for six traits. The fourth cluster had three genotypes that were further divided into two subcultures. Sub cluster I had two genotypes viz., NRC 132 and NRC 2007-G-1-13 and these two genotypes had thirteen similar traits and varied for five traits. The sub cluster II had one genotype viz., PK 257. \r\n\r\n','R.C. Sivabharathi, A. Muthuswamy, K. Anandhi and L. Karthiba (2022). Characterization of Soybean [Glycine max (L.) Merrill] Genotypes based on DUS Traits. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 14(3): 557-564.'),(5208,'134','Characterization of Soybean [Glycine max (L.) Merrill] Genotypes based on DUS Traits','R.C. Sivabharathi*, A. Muthuswamy, K. Anandhi and L. Karthiba','92 Characterization of Soybean [Glycine max _L._ Merrill] Genotypes based on DUS Traits K. Anandhi.pdf','',4,'The challenge in the present study is to characterize the sixty-nine soybean genotypes based on the DUS test given by PPV&FR for the fourteen qualitative and four quantitative traits. The qualitative traits include anthocyanin pigmentation on hypocotyl, plant growth type, leaf shape, leaf colour, plant growth habit, flower colour, pod pubescence colour, pod colour, seed shape, seed colour, seed lustre, seed hilum colour, presence and absence pod pubescence and seed cotyledon colour and the quantitative traits are days to 50% flowering, plant height, days to maturity and seed size. Pod pubescence and seed cotyledon were found to be a monomorphic trait for all the sixty-nine genotypes. The study revealed that flower colour and hypocotyl pigmentation were found to be directly linked. JS 95-60 and MACS 29 were two genotypes observed as late flowering. PK 1024 was the only genotype with lancealote leaf shape. Cluster analysis depicted that the 69 genotypes could be grouped into four major clusters each with two sub clusters. The similarity coefficient ranges from 0.75 to 0.77. The genotypes in cluster I and IV were observed to have wide variation. Thus, the contribution of this research will help the researchers to utilize the genotypes in cluster I and cluster IV for the crop improvement programmes.','Cluster, Dendrogram, Descriptors, DUS, Qualitative traits','Among the 69 soybean genotypes studied, the genotypes CO 2, NRC 147, MAUS 71-07, MACS 1259, MACS 985, JS 20-01, NRC 2007-K-7-2, JS 20-09, MACS 1281, WC 67, PK 768, MAUS 52-1, JS (SH) 8554, MAUS 417, VLS 70, NRC 78 and PK 1303 from cluster I grouped under sub cluster I and the genotypes NRC 132, NRC 2007-G-1-13 and PK 257 in cluster IV in both the sub clusters were found to have wide variation. This study also revealed that traits viz., flower colour, hypocotyl colour, presence and absence of pod pubescence and seed cotyledon colour were found to be reliable. The remaining traits can be focused for the distinctness of the genotypes. Thus, the present study could be used for the selection of reference varieties for DUS testing of new soybean genotypes. In addition, genotypes with wide variation can be used as parent for crop improvement programmes.','INTRODUCTION\r\nSoybean [Glycine max (L.) Merrill] is called “Miracle crop” or “Golden bean” because it contributes significantly as both oilseed and leguminous crop in terms of total production and international trade (Chung and Singh 2008). It belongs to the family Fabaceae and subfamily Papilionaceae. World soybean production in 2021 – 22 is estimated as 385.527 million tonnes. Brazil ranks first in soybean production with 144 million tonnes followed by the United States, Argentina, China and India (Anonymous, 2022a). Production in India accounts 12.90 million tonnes cultivated under 12.81 million hectares with the productivity of 1007 kg/ha in 2020-21 (Anonymous, 2021). Madhya Pradesh and Maharashtra contributes 89 per cent of soybean production in India. In 2021-22, the world production volume of soybean oil amounted to 60.27 million metric tonnes (Anonymous, 2022b). This demonstrates that soybean oil production is rising quickly around the world as a result of its high nutritional value as a food source for both people and livestock, as well as its importance as a source of edible oil with industrial applications. Soy seeds contain 38–43 per cent protein, while 17–19 per cent oil (Chung and Singh 2008). Furthermore, 100g of soybeans had 432 calories, 10.5g of fat, and 426mg of vitamins (A, B, and D). In addition to this, soybean also contains 240mg of calcium, 690mg of phosphorus, and 11.5mg of iron (Nagraj, 1995). \r\nThe characterization based on distinctness, uniformity, stability and novelty is prerequisite. The varietal characterization of a genotype should be precisely explained, accepted and should have standard method of observation. In addition, it should be least or less affected by the environment (Raut, 2003). Emphasis on characterization, varietal identification and genetic purity assessment of soybean genotypes is very important to the field functionaries, certification officers, seed production officers and seed growers for regulating quality of the seed. It is also favorable for plant breeder to assess relationship between yield and its various components, which will facilitate selection of desirable characteristics (Jain et al., 2015). Identification of genotypes based on morphological characteristics is the most extensively used method. In case of no variation observed among the genotypes with qualitative traits, quantitative traits can be taken into observation to get precise results (Raut, 2003). Therefore, the present study is focused on the characterization of soybean genotypes for both qualitative and quantitative traits. The quantitative and qualitative data were analyzed by GGT 2.0 Software (Kujane et al., 2019). The dendrogram was constructed using UPGMA tree clustering (Ramteke et al., 2015). In this aspect, genotypes with similar traits were grouped into single cluster based on qualitative and quantitative traits which can be used for the selection of genotypes with wide variation for the future breeding programmes.\r\nMATERIALS AND METHODS\r\nThe present study was carried out at the Department of Pulses, Tamil Nadu Agricultural University, Coimbatore during rabi, 2021-22 using augmented block design II. The experimental plot was at the latitude of 11.0232 °N, the longitude of 76.9293 °E and the altitude at 426.72m above MSL. Each genotype was raised in 3m length with spacing of 30 × 10cm. The experiment was carried out with 69 genotypes enlisted in Table 1, including five check varieties viz., NRC 132, NRC 142, NRC 147, MACS 1460 and CO (Soy) 3. Observations were recorded for fourteen qualitative traits and four quantitative traits. The qualitative traits were anthocyanin pigmentation on hypocotyls, plant growth type, leaf shape, leaf colour, plant growth habit, flower colour, pod pubescence colour, pod colour, seed shape, seed colour, seed lustre, seed hilum colour, presence and absence of pod pubescence and seed cotyledon colour and the quantitative traits were days to 50 per cent flowering, plant height, days to maturity and seed size (Table 2). The genotypes were evaluated for each trait based on note values of the DUS characters as per the Protection of Plant Varieties and Farmers Rights, 2001 (Table 3). The eighteen traits of 69 genotypes were subjected to cluster analysis using GGT 2.0 software (Kujane et al., 2019).\r\nRESULT AND DISCUSSION\r\nDUS characterization: Based on DUS guidelines as per PPV&FR (2001), fourteen qualitative and four quantitative traits were visually scored for 69 genotypes. Among eighteen traits, two were monomorphic viz., seed cotyledon colour and pod pubescence and showed no variation for all the 69 genotypes. Eight traits were dimorphic and remaining eight were polymorphic in nature. Dhaliwal et al. (2020) also reported that out of 19 traits observed in soybean, only one trait viz., plant growth type was monomorphic, nine traits were dimorphic and remaining nine traits were polymorphic. In the present study, flower colour and hypocotyl pigmentation were found to be correlated. Gupta et al. (2010) also observed correlation with flower colour and anthocyanin pigmentation in soybean. All the non-pigmented hypocotyls exhibited white flowers whereas all the pigmented hypocotyls exhibited purple flowers. In contrast, bronze band pigmentation on hypocotyls with certain white flowers when grown on continuous light was observed in soybean by Payne and Sundermeyer (1977). Studies on quantitative traits were also made by Karnwal and Singh (2009); Ramteke et al. (2012). The eighteen traits were observed at six different stages viz., cotyledon stage, flowering stage (about 50 percent plants have at least one opened flower), pod setting stage (about 70 percent of pods attained full length 30-50 mm), advance ripening stage (about 50 percent of pods are ripe), full maturity stage (about 90 per cent pods are ripe) and post harvesting stage. \r\nFloral characters: All the genotypes except NRC 2006-M-6, NRC 2007-G-1-13, NRC 79, PK 257, JS 97-52, JS 98-68, MACS 1188, NRC 132 and MACS 1460 bore white flowers and had no pigmentation in hypocotyl and remaining genotypes bore purple flowers and had pigmentation in hypocotyl (Fig. 1, 2). Six gene controls flower colour while two genes control pubescence colour in soybean was reported by Palmer et al. (2004); Takahashi et al. (2008). \r\nGrowth characters: Erect type was displayed in most of the genotypes, except CO 2, JS 20-09, JS 98-68, MACS 1188, NRC 2007-G-1-13, NRC 2007-K-7-2, NRC 78, NRC 79, PK 1303, NRC 142, NRC 147 and MACS 1460 that had semi-erect type growth habit (Fig. 3). Singh et al. (2021) grouped all the seven released soybean varieties of Himachal Pradesh used in his study under tall stature category. But in our present study, there is a variation in the plant height among the 69 genotypes. Out of 69 genotypes, only one genotype JS 98-61 was observed as tall statured, 29 were noted as medium statured and 39 genotypes were of short stature. Plant growth type is classified into 3 categories viz., determinate, semi-determinate and indeterminate. Determinate type was found in 15 genotypes, semi-determinate in 24 genotypes and indeterminate in 30 genotypes. Days to 50 per cent flowering was observed to be dimorphic. MACS 1460 exhibited early flowering, 66 genotypes were with medium type of flowering and remaining two genotypes viz., JS 95-60 and MACS 629 were observed as late. Early maturing type was observed in 50 genotypes, medium maturing was observed in 18 genotypes and CSB 0811 was the only genotype categorized as late maturing type. Cober and Morrison (2010) reported that days to maturity and time to flowering is controlled by eight loci each with two alleles in soybean.\r\nLeaf characters: Leaf shape was observed to be polymorphic trait. PK 1024 was the only genotype with lancealote leaf shape, 59 genotypes had pointed-ovate shape and nine genotypes had rounded ovate leaf shape. \r\nThis shows that the variation in the leaf shape was mainly observed between rounded ovate and pointed ovate leaf (Fig. 4). Similar observation in leaf shape of soybean was found by Gupta et al. (2010). Green leaf colour was displayed by majority of the genotypes except MACS 1188, MAUS 417, NRC 78, NRC 79, WC 67, PK 1303 and CO (Soy) 3 which were with dark green coloured leaves.\r\nPod characters: Pod pubescence was found to be monomorphic and all the genotypes were observed with pubescence. Almost 50 genotypes had brown pod colour, 13 genotypes had yellow pod colour and the remaining genotypes viz., VLS 69, MAUS 60, MAUS 61, VLS 70, PK 1038 and MACS 1460 had black pod colour. Majority of the genotypes had tawny pod pubescence colour except CO 2, JS 20-09, JS 98-68, MACS 1188, MACS 1259, MACS 1281, MACS 985, NRC 78, NRC 79, PK 1303 and MACS 1460 which were with grey pubescence.\r\nSeed characters: Seed traits are crucial for DUS characterization as these are less influenced by the environment and are thus stable. Across the varying climatic zones, hair colour, flower colour and seed colour in soybean were reported to be the most stable characters by Satyavathi et al. (2004). Five seed traits viz., seed size, seed shape, seed coat colour, seed lustre and seed cotyledon colour were noted in the present study and these traits were observed at post harvesting stage. Among the seed traits, seed size and seed hilum colour were polymorphic; seed shape, seed coat colour and seed lustre were dimorphic; and seed cotyledon colour was monomorphic in nature. Seed size was computed on the basis of hundred seed weight. Large-sized seed was observed in only one genotype viz., PK 257, medium sized seed was observed in 30 genotypes and small-sized seed was observed in 38 genotypes. Forty-one genotypes exhibited spherical shaped seeds and the remaining genotypes exhibited elliptical shaped seeds. EC 18736 was the only genotype with black seed coat and remaining 68 genotypes exhibited yellow seed coat (Fig. 5). Ramteke et al. (2012) also observed the same type of variation in seed coat of soybean. Difference in seed coat within a species can usually be linked to variation in chromosome number or some aspect of gross morphology in soybean (Newell and Hymowitz, 1978). Seed hilum colour is highly stable and in the present study, three out of five designated classes of hilum colour were observed. MACS 1259, NRC 78, NRC 79, PK 1303 and MACS 1460 were the genotypes with grey hilum, 50 genotypes had brown hilum and fourteen genotypes had black hilum (Fig. 6). Yadav and Sharma (2001) also reported the variation in hilum colour in soybean. Morphological observations for seed lustre were observed to be shiny for all the soybean cultivars reported by Pawale et al. (2019). But in this study shiny seeds were observed in 45 genotypes and dull seeds were observed 24 genotypes.\r\nCluster analysis: Among the genotypes studied, few genotypes were distinct as they could be classified based on a single trait while majority of the genotypes were closely related. The similarity coefficient ranged from 0.81 to 0.82. Ranjani and Jayamani (2021) grouped 68 pigeonpea genotypes at an average similarity of 80%. The 69 genotypes were grouped into four clusters using UPGMA dendrogram in GGT 2.0 software (Fig. 7). Dhaliwal et al. (2020) also reported four clusters in grouping 22 soybean lines for 19 characters. The trait contributing for first grouping was anthocyanin pigmentation and flower colour. The first cluster had 39 genotypes that were subdivided into two sub clusters. The first sub cluster had 17 genotypes and these genotypes were very similar to each other for eight traits and varied for ten traits. The second sub cluster had 22 genotypes were found to be similar to each other for ten traits and showed variation for eight traits.\r\nThe second cluster had 21 genotypes that were subdivided into two sub clusters. The first sub cluster had only one genotype EC 18736. The second sub cluster had 20 genotypes and was very similar to each other for seven traits and showed variation for eleven other traits. The third cluster had two sub clusters. The first sub cluster had JS 97-52 and NRC 2007-G-1-13 and had 13 similar traits and varied for five traits. The second sub cluster had JS 98-68, MACS 1188, NRC 79 and MACS 1460 and had 12 similar traits and differed for six traits. The fourth cluster had three genotypes that were further divided into two subcultures. Sub cluster I had two genotypes viz., NRC 132 and NRC 2007-G-1-13 and these two genotypes had thirteen similar traits and varied for five traits. The sub cluster II had one genotype viz., PK 257. \r\n\r\n','R.C. Sivabharathi, A. Muthuswamy, K. Anandhi and L. Karthiba (2022). Characterization of Soybean [Glycine max (L.) Merrill] Genotypes based on DUS Traits. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 14(3): 557-564.'),(5209,'134','PEG a Humectant for Increasing Bait Longevity in Food Baited Female Melon Fruit Fly Trap','S. Kaviya*, T. Elaiyabharathi, T. Srinivasan and V.P. Santhanakrishnan','93 PEG a Humectant for Increasing Bait Longevity in Food Baited Female Melon Fruit Fly Trap Kaviya S.pdf','',1,'The bait longevity study of food baited trap in field condition for the attraction of female melon fruit fly, Zeugodacus cucurbitae (Coq.) (Diptera: Tephritidae) was evaluated in snake gourd ecosystem (Trichosanthes anguina L.) at Coimbatore district, Tamil Nadu during the year 2021-2022. Two different humectants, poly-ethylene glycol and glycerol (PEG) at different concentrations was added to the base bait mixture and tested to improve the shelf life of the bait in field condition. The results indicated that the attractiveness of base baits with 1% poly-ethylene glycol lasted longer (up to 1 week) than that of bait without any humectants (2–3 days). The number of adult female flies trapped at first three days was also high and gradually decreased in successive days and found low at seventh day (6.8 female flies/trap/day). Thus, base bait + 1% poly-ethylene glycol serves to extend the life of bait material for a week in field condition. ','Poly-ethylene glycol, glycerol, humectant, longevity, melon fruit fly','From the result of the above study, it is concluded that poly-ethylene glycol at 1% added to the food bait can be used for IPM concepts under field conditions to trap female melon fruit fly in the gourds ecosystem.','INTRODUCTION\r\nFruit flies (Tephritidae: Diptera) are one among the most fascinating species of creepy crawlies, also known as \"peacock flies\" due to their propensity to flail and swagger, and they are among the most serious pests in green harvests worldwide (Gopaul et al., 2001; Kapoor, 1993). The subgenus melon fruit fly, Zeugodacus cucurbitae is considered as an economically important species within the genus Bactrocera (Verghese et al., 2006; Biswas et al., 2007) and it is also regarded as a federal quarantine pest in India and many other Nations, where the majority of them inflict extensive damage to various fruits and vegetables, particularly cucurbitaceous crops. They have been reported as a major stumbling block to high yields and good quality of cucurbits (Mir et al., 2014). Extent of losses ranges from 30 to 100 percent, depending on the season of attack and the host species. Fruit flies prefer to lay their eggs on green fruits, penetrating the tissue with their ovipositor and depositing the eggs inside. Inside the fruit, the eggs hatch into maggots, which begin to feed on the flesh and form tunnels. Young fruits rot and wither as a result of this, while older fruits may become distorted, lowering the economic value (Dhillon et al., 2005). Due to their concealed egg laying and feeding behaviour makes them difficult to control using insecticidal sprays. The requirement for good management in the gourd’s ecosystem is necessitated by these various deleterious effects. The majority of fruit fly management attempts have concentrated on capturing adults using cue-lure baited traps. Though these traps were used for mass trapping in the field, they are employed for male annihilation (Sohrab and Prasad 2018) and females are not attracted in common. These Para-pheromones are also synthetic, which impede biodegradation, (Sankaram, 1999) and are not accessible to farmers due to their high cost or unavailability (Sookar et al., 2002). Nevertheless, low-cost, eco-friendly and effective food bait combination for the management of fruit flies, using locally available food-based materials was developed by Abinaya et al. (2020). It consists of guava, muskmelon and some additives including yeast, cane sugar and food graded alcohol. The tested food bait has low shelf life in field condition and dries within 2-3 days due to high temperature. Therefore, the present study aims at addition of some humectants viz., poly-ethylene glycol and glycerol to base bait. Hence, the current research intends to improve the bait longevity by addition of two different humectants and studying the bait efficacy in attracting the female melon fruit fly under field condition in gourds eco-system.\r\nMATERIALS AND METHODS\r\nExperimental sites. The present field screening experiments to extend the shelf life of food baited traps was conducted at Thennampalayam, Annur (11.22°N & 77.10°E) Coimbatore district, Tamil Nadu with snake gourd ecosystem (Trichosanthes anguina L.) during 2021-2022.\r\n \r\nTrap. For the field study, trap designed by Pujar et al. (2018) with further modification made by Abinaya et al. (2020) was utilized.\r\nPreparation of food baits\r\nBase bait. The food bait combinations with a focus on trapping female fruit flies developed by Abinaya et al. (2020) was used in longevity study. The food bait combination includes guava (20 g) + muskmelon (20 g) + cane Sugar (4 g) + yeast (0.4 g) + food grade alcohol (10 ml). Fully ripened fruits and bait additives were purchased from the local market. The fruits were washed, peeled, and finely grinded to pulp. Bait additives such as cane sugar, yeast and food grade alcohol were added in correct proportions to the pureed pulp, and fermentation was allowed for 48 hours.\r\nAddition of humectants. The bait material placed in the traps dries out within 2–3 days due to changes in weather conditions. To extend the bait\'s shelf life, comparison experiments were conducted by addition of two different humectants, polyethylene glycol and glycerol, at different concentrations. Poly-ethylene glycol and glycerol were procured from Sigma Aldrich, India and added at different proportions to the base bait mixture. The treatment combination is presented in Table 1.\r\nTrap count. The experimental design was randomised block with 10 replications per humectant. The fermented bait materials, along with the two different humectants, were placed inside the bottle trap with a spoon through the foldable window in the trap. The traps were hung 1.2m above ground from the grid support for the snakegourd vines. The baits were placed in the bait chamber of the trap at 0600h. The trapped flies were killed with ethyl acetate dipped in a cotton and inserted into the trap. The dead flies were then counted and sexed. The trap-wise counts were made daily after 1800h.\r\nStatistical analysis. Field data on fruit fly catches was analysed using Analysis of Variance (ANOVA). The data collected from randomized block design were subjected to appropriate transformations before analysis and the Sample means were separated using Tukey’s HSD test. The analyses were performed in the statistical package, IBMSPSS Statistics 22.\r\nRESULT AND DISCUSSION\r\nThe experiment conducted in snake gourd field at Coimbatore showed the comparison between the efficiency of two different humectants used in the food baited traps in extending the shelf life and also attraction of female melon fruit flies (Fig. 1). The bait in traps typically dries in 2-3 days because of the weather factors (Taneja et al., 1986). The fermentation process reduces gradually as the moisture content drops and the production of volatile chemicals from the baits is minimal. Consequently, the baits show less attraction even on the third day when the temperature is high (Bharathi et al., 2004). The attractiveness of baits decreased significantly each day and the humectants helped in sustaining the shelf life and the attractiveness of the base bait material by 7 days (Table 2). \r\nPolyethylene glycol showed to reduce evaporation of bait material when added to aqueous bait (Mangan and Thomas 2014; Epsky et al., 2014b) in addition they also function as a dispersant (Moreno et al., 2001). Addition of glycerol also reduces the loss of moisture and act as a potential humectant (Mckibben et al., 1971). Hardee et al. (1972) increased the bait’s longevity by 7 days by adding poly-ethylene glycol and glycerol in their formulation. It was proved that T2 -base bait + polyethylene glycol at 1% was able to sustain the attractiveness of the baits with highest catch of fruit flies (25.8 female flies/trap) which is in accordance with Moreno and Mangan 2002. This is followed by T1- base bait + poly-ethylene glycol at 0.5% with fly catch of 17.2 female flies/trap and T6 – base bait + glycerol at 1% with a fly catch of 15.2 female flies/trap. The effect of glycerol was comparatively lower than that of poly-ethylene glycol. On the first day, the attractiveness of the control bait mixture, i.e., base bait alone (23.2 female flies/ trap / day) was as high as that of base bait + poly-ethylene glycol at 1% (27.4 female flies/trap/day) and Base bait + glycerol at 1% (19.4 female flies/trap/day), while the attraction of base bait mixture with other humectant combination was less attractive (9.4 – 18 female flies/trap/day). On the second day and third day, the base bait containing 1% poly-ethylene glycol attracted greater number of flies 40.8 female flies/trap/day, 51.4 female flies/trap/day respectively when compared to other combinations. The control bait lost its capability of attraction rapidly and by day four there was no attraction, whereas in the base bait containing 1% poly-ethylene glycol the attractiveness lasted up to seven days with gradual decrease in the fly catch from 26 female flies/trap/day to 6.8 female flies/trap/day.\r\n','S. Kaviya, T. Elaiyabharathi, T. Srinivasan and V.P. Santhanakrishnan (2022). Peg a Humectant for Increasing Bait Longevity in Food Baited Female Melon Fruit Fly Trap. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 14(2a): 565-568.'),(5210,'134','Entrepreneurial Behaviour of Women Agripreneurs in Coastal Odisha','Debasmita Nayak*, R. Radhashyam Panigrahi and Angelina Patro','94 Entrepreneurial Behaviour of Women Agripreneurs in Coastal Odisha Debasmita Nayak.pdf','',1,'The development of women agripreneurship is the most important part of human resource development. It makes the women financially independent and enhances the self esteem of them. The present research work has been conducted to know the entrepreneurial behavior of women agripreneurs of Coastal Odisha as women empowerment is the main focus of the decade and women agriprenership is one of the best mean for women empowerment. The study has been conducted in two coastal districts of Odisha that are Balasore and Jagatsinghpur. Total 210 women agripreneurs were included in the study. Result shows that 46.75% of women agripreneurs belong to medium level of entrepreneurial behaviour category followed by 41.25% low and 12 % belong to high entrepreneurial behavior category. ','Agripreneurship, Entrepreneurial behavior, Women agripreneurs','In the research area, most of the respondents having medium level of risk bearing ability, level of aspiration, manageability, achievement motivation, decision making ability and self determinism followed by low level of all the stated entrepreneurial behavior. So training programmes should be arranged for enhancing their entrepreneurial behavior which will be more helpful to promote agripreneurship in the area.','INTRODUCTION\r\nEntrepreneurial behaviour is described as the set of behaviour of an individual which makes them to innovate and to improve the existing ideas to market a product or service effectively. It can be defined as the magnitude of the individuals to identify opportunities in the market and to turn them into profitable businesses.\r\nThese behavior includes risk taking ability, level of aspiration, manageability, decision making ability, leadership quality, self determinism, achievement motivation etc. An women agripreneur must have the following qualities to run her business smoothly and efficiently.\r\n Entrepreneurial behavior consists of innovativeness, risk orientation, achievement motivation, decision making ability, market orientation, information seeking behavior, cosmopoliteness, managerial assistance. (Subramaneswari et al., 2007) 75% of rural women were focused in medium category of entrepreneurial behavior followed by low (15%) and high (9.5%) (Gupta and Pandey 2012).\r\nMATERIALS AND METHODS:\r\nThe research study was conducted to analyse the entrepreneurial behavior of women agripreneurs. The study was conducted in two district viz., Balasore and Jagatsighpur of Odisha. 210 women from the above two coastal districts were selected for the study.\r\n Purposive sampling method was used in the study as it is a commodity based research and ex-post facto research design has been followed here.\r\nData were collected through personal interview method using semi structured interview schedule\r\nMeasurement of variables. Dependent variable i.e. entrepreneurial behavior was measured using the scale described in the Table 1. The responses of the respondents were obtained using the respective scales against each statements in terms of agreement and disagreement on a five point continuum scale.\r\nThe statements were scored 5, 4, 3, 2, 1 ranging from strongly agree, agree, undecided, disagree and strongly disagree. Based on the total score given by the respondents in all the components of entrepreneurial behavior, the respondents were classified into three categories, Low level having score < (mean- SD), medium level having score between (mean –SD) to (mean+SD) high level having score >(mean + SD). \r\nRESULT AND DISCUSSION\r\nRisk bearing ability. It is defined as the degree to which the respondents are ready to take risk and uncertainty in their respective enterprises. From the above Table 2, it was observed that most of the respondents (43.34%) were having medium risk bearing ability, whereas 40.95% were having low risk bearing ability and 15.71% were having high risk bearing ability. The findings are in line with the findings of Porchezhian et al. (2017); Raina et al. (2016).\r\nManageability. It is described as the ability of the individuals to manage all the things in their enterprises. In the research area majority of the respondents i.e. 48.09% were having medium manageability, whereas 36.19 % were having low manageability and 15.72% were having manageability. The findings are in line with the findings of Porchezhian (2017) and Gamit et al. (2015).\r\nLevel of aspiration. Most of the respondents (43.34%) were having medium level of aspiration, whereas 41.90% were having low level and 14.76% were having high level of level of aspiration \r\nAchievement Motivation. It refers to the desire of the individuals for excellence to attain a sense of personal accomplishment. Most of the respondents (53.34%) were having medium level of achievement motivation, whereas 24.76% were having high level of achievement motivation and 21.90% were having low level of achievement motivation.\r\nThe findings are in line with the findings of Porchezhian et al. (2017); Chaurasia (2015) and Shah, and Gupta (2010).\r\nDecision making ability. It is denoted as the ability of agripreneurs to select a course of action among the several alternative options Majority of the respondents (50%) were having medium decision making ability, whereas 40.48% were having low decision making ability and 9.52 % were having high decision making ability. The findings are in line with the findings of Chaurasia (2015); Ahuja et al. (2015) and Avhad et al. (2015).\r\nSelf Determinism. It is the degree to which the individual is satisfied with his/her work and do the work with own interest. Most of the respondents i.e. 44.29% were having medium self determinism, whereas 36.67% were having low self determinism and 19.04% were having high self determinism. The findings are in line with the findings of Ahuja (2015) and Chaudhari et al. (2007).','Debasmita Nayak and R. Radhashyam Panigrahi (2022). Entrepreneurial Behaviour of Women Agripreneurs in Coastal Odisha. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 14(2a): 569-571.'),(5211,'134','Effect of Pulsed Electric Field on Physicochemical Parameters and Nutrient Content of Mother’s Milk','A. Shivani Indumathi, G. Sujatha*, V. Appa Rao, Rita Narayanan, C.N. Kamalarathnam, V. Perasiriyan A. and Serma Saravana Pandian','95 Effect of Pulsed Electric Field on Physicochemical Parameters and Nutrient Content of Mother’s Milk G. Sujatha.pdf','',1,'Mother’s own milk is considered as the first choice for newborns when mother’s own milk is unavailable; donor mother’s milk from human milk bank can be used as an alternative. Holder pasteurisation method is frequently utilised in human milk bank. During holder pasteurisation macronutrients present in the milk are not fully retained due to thermal deterioration. Pulsed electric field (PEF) a novel non thermal processing can be as an alternative method to process the donor mother’s milk. In the present study the mother’s milk samples were exposed to high voltage gradient of 25kV/cm and 30kV/cm by varying the number of pulses and treatment time. pH, dornic acidity, fat, protein, lactose and ascorbic acid content were analysed immediately after PEF processing and compared with holder pasteurized and raw mother’s milk. When raw mother\'s milk samples compared with PEF processed mother’s milk and holder pasteurized mother’s milk it was found that there was no noticeable difference in pH, dornic acidity and macronutrients (except protein) immediately after processing. When holder pasteurised mother\'s milk samples compared to PEF processed samples showed highly significant difference in ascorbic acid level. Holder pasteurised milk retained only 43% of ascorbic acid whereas, PEF processed mother\'s milk retained 90% of ascorbic acid content. Thus, PEF processing maintains the quality of milk without compromising the nutritional content of mother’s milk.','Holder pasteurization, Pulsed electric field, ascorbic acid, mother’s milk','In the current study no discernible variation in any physicochemical parameters and macronutrients with the exception of protein was observed immediately after PEF processing and holder pasteurization compared to raw mother’s milk. In contrast, holder pasteurised mother\'s milk had a highly significant difference in ascorbic acid level when compared to PEF processed samples and raw mother\'s samples in micronutrient analysis. Because ascorbic acid is unstable to heat holder pasteurised mother\'s milk has retained 43% ascorbic acid than unpasteurized milk. Therefore, mother\'s milk samples can be processed using a pulsed electric system without compromising the nutritional content of mother\'s milk\'s.','INTRODUCTION\r\nHuman milk banks facilitate the collection, processing and storage of the mother’s milk from the donor mothers. When newborns cannot be fed with their own mother\'s milk due to preterm birth or low milk volume, in such cases donor mother’s milk is the best alternative since it contains immunological components which are not found in commercial infant formula (Wight et al., 2001). Holder pasteurisation method ensures the microbial safety of the mother’s milk which is most often method used in human milk bank. Holder pasteurization involves heating milk at a low temperature (62.5°C) for an extended period of time (30 min). During holder pasteurisation immunoglobulin and macronutrients present in the milk are not fully retained due to thermal degradation (Buffin et al., 2018).\r\nTo overcome these thermal degradation technologists are looking for new alternatives to traditional thermal processing to minimize the negative effects of heat on food quality (Aguirre et al., 2011). Some of the emerging innovative technologies such as high hydrostatic pressure, pulsed electric ﬁeld (PEF), ultrasound, irradiation or ultraviolet are widely used to meet the increasing consumer demands for better retention of the nutritional value, sensory attributes, and longer shelf stability of processed foods such as milk, beverages (Chugh et al., 2014).\r\nIn recent years there is a considerable interest in pulsed electric field technology. Pulsed electric fields (PEF) is one of the most enticing developing non thermal technologies due to its short treatment times and less heating effects compared to other methods. PEF is a non thermal food preservation technique that involves the discharge of high voltage electric pulses 10-80kV/cm into a food product held between two electrodes for a few microseconds (Sujatha et al., 2021). In liquid media, a sequence of short, high-voltage pulses breaches the cell membranes of vegetative bacteria by expanding or forming new pores (electroporation). Pore creation can be reversible or irreversible, depending on factors such as the intensity of the electric field, the duration of the pulses, and the number of pulses (Keerthi et al., 2013)\r\nThis present study was envisaged to process the mother’s milk using PEF technology by varying the voltage, number of pulses and treatment time and to assess the pH, dornic acidity, fat, protein and lactose content immediately after PEF processing.\r\nMATERIALS AND METHOD\r\nA. Collection of mother’s milk\r\nThe mother’s milk was collected from the donor mothers in and around Koduveli village and from human milk bank attached to Institute of child health and Hospital for children. The mother’s milk from the donors were collected in sterile environment in stainless steel containers and stored at refrigerated temperature until PEF processing. The HoP milk and raw mother’s milk was used as control samples.\r\nB. PEF processing of mother’s milk\r\nPEF processing system is composed of PEF treatment chambers and pulse generator. Coaxial PEF treatment chambers are currently widely used due to their simplicity in structure. The coaxial chamber with the capacity of 200mL was used to process mother’s milk. The chamber was made up of acrylic material and SS 304 stainless steel rings (electrodes). The base of the chamber is made up of acrylic material and two hollow stainless steel rings (electrodes) was placed concentrically over the base. The distance between two concentric hollow rings was fixed to 1cm for processing 200mL of milk sample by applying a voltage gradient. PEF system consists of Pulse forming network (PFN) which produced square pulses of 2.5 µs pulse width. Different voltage gradients (25kV/cm and 30kV/cm) were applied to the milk samples at different treatment time and different number of pulses. The milk was subjected to different voltage, number of pulses and time combination as given below.\r\nAfter PEF processing the mother’s milk samples were collected in sterile condition using storage vials physicochemical parameters (pH, acidity) and nutrient content (fat, protein lactose content and ascorbic acid content) were analysed immediately after PEF processing. The PEF processed milk samples were compared with holder pasteurized and raw mother’s milk samples.\r\nC. Determination physicochemical parameters of mother’s milk\r\npH was determined with a digital pH meter at room temperature. The pH meter was calibrated using pH buffer of 4.0, 7.0 and 9.2. The dornic acidity in mother’s milk was estimated by titration method using 0.1N NaOH solution and 1 % phenolphthalein as an indicator. The titratable acidity was expressed in Dornic degrees (˚ D). The end point was determined by change in color from white to pale pink. Each 1mL of 0.1N NaOH required for the sample to change color accounts for 1˚ of Dornic acidity (˚D) (Sanchaya et al., 2021).\r\nD. Determination of macronutrients and micronutrients of mother’s milk\r\nThe nutrient content (Fat, protein, lactose, ascorbic acid) in mother’s milk was determined using kjedhal method, Gerber method, titration with Fehling\'s solutions (A and B) method (Sanchaya et al., 2021).\r\nE. Statistical Analysis \r\nStatistical analysis was performed using SPSS and the descriptive data were reported as mean and standard error.\r\nRESULT AND DISCUSSION\r\nA. Physicochemical parameters of raw, holder pasteurized and PEF processed mother’s milk\r\nPhysicochemical parameters such as pH and dornic acidity of holder pasteurized and PEF processed mother’s milk samples is shown in table 1. It was observed that there was no significant difference in pH and dornic acidity immediately after Holder pasteurization and in all treatments of PEF processing compared to raw mother’s milk. Similar results were obtained by Sanchaya et al. (2021) who observed no change in pH and dornic acidity immediately after PEF processing. Dornic acidity did not differ significantly immediately after holder pasteurization (Roman et al., 2016). \r\nB. Nutrient content of raw, holder pasteurized and PEF processed mother’s milk\r\nThe changes in macronutrient and micronutrients of PEF processed and holder pasteurized mother’s milk samples compared to raw mother’s milk is summarized in Table 2. When comparing pasteurised mother\'s milk to raw mother\'s milk immediately after PEF treatment (T1-T6) no appreciable variation in fat or lactose content was seen. This outcome is consistent with that of (Pitino et al., 2018) who found that there was no discernible difference in the amount of fat and protein present immediately after UV-C irradiation (250 nm, 25 min) and HHP (500 MPa, 8 min). After holding pasteurisation of mother\'s milk in comparison with raw mother\'s milk, no significant variation in carbohydrate content and a significant difference in fat content were found (Kim et al., 2022). Table 2 shows that there was a substantial difference in protein content between raw mother\'s milk and milk that had undergone PEF treatment and holder pasteurisation. Sanchaya et al., 2020 who found a substantial variation in protein immediately after PEF processing reported similar findings. The decrease in protein concentration during PEF processing may be caused by milk materials electrodepositing in the electrodes. Proteins may potentially unfurl or be oriented in the direction of the applied electric field during PEF processing which would result in a decrease in protein content (Sharma et al., 2014).\r\nThe ascorbic acid content in the PEF processed mother’s milk is shown in Table 2. It was observed that there was highly significant difference in ascorbic acid content in holder pasteurized mother’s milk compared to raw and PEF processed mother’s milk. Fast heat pasteurisation (100°C 5 mins) and slow heat pasteurisation (62.5°C 30 mins) both resulted in reduction of ascorbic acid in breast milk about 29 and 41%, respectively. Because ascorbic acid is heat-sensitive thermal pasteurisation has caused ascorbic acid to change into dehydroascorbic acid which has resulted in a drop in ascorbic acid levels (Nadal et al., 2008).','A. Shivani Indumathi, G. Sujatha, V. Appa Rao, Rita Narayanan, C.N. Kamalarathnam, V. Perasiriyan A. and Serma Saravana Pandian (2022). Effect of Pulsed Electric Field on Physicochemical Parameters and Nutrient Content of Mother’s Milk. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 14(2a): 572-575.'),(5212,'134','Effect of Chemical Pretreatments on the Chemical Characteristics of Dehydrated Onion Slices','Srujana Eda*, V. Sudha Vani, R.V. Sujatha and D.R. Salomi Suneetha','96 Effect of Chemical Pretreatments on the Chemical Characteristics of Dehydrated Onion Slices Akhtar Rasool.pdf','',1,'The present investigation was carried out in Department of Post Harvest Technology at College of Horticulture, Dr. Y.S.R. Horticultural University, Venkataramannagudem, West Godavari District of Andhra Pradesh during 2017 and 2018 with an objective to study the effect of different pretreatments on chemical characteristics of onion slices. Dehydration of onion is required to provide a way for utilization during off-season and pretreatments are used to improve the quality attributes of onion slices. In preparation of dehydrated onion slices, four pre-treatments viz., 0.5% potassium metabisulfite (KMS), 2% calcium chloride (CaCl2), 2% Sodium chloride (NaCl) and control with two varieties viz., Agrifound Dark Red and Phule Safed were used. The experiment was conducted in completely randomized factorial design with the above two factors at unequal levels and replicated thrice. Pungency was more in Agrifound Dark Red variety pretreated with 0.5% KMS (6.20 µ mol pyruvic acid/g). Maximum total soluble solids were recorded in Phule Safed pretreated with 0.5% KMS (13.79 ºBrix). Reducing sugars were recorded high in Phule Safed variety pretreated with 0.5% KMS (19.19%). Phule Safed variety pretreated with 0.5% KMS (38.35%) recorded maximum total sugars. Among the pretreatments, the highest non reducing sugars were recorded in the onion slices pretreated with 2% NaCl (18.99%). Among the varieties, highest non reducing sugars were recorded in Phule Safed (18.95%). Ascorbic acid was recorded maximum in Agrifound Dark Red variety pretreated with 0.5% KMS (35.94 mg 100 g-1). Among the pretreatments, the maximum titrable acidity was recorded in the onion slices pretreated with 2 % NaCl (3.57%). Among the varieties, maximum titrable acidity was recorded in Agrifound Dark Red (3.49%). ','Chemical characteristics, pretreatments, Agrifound Dark Red, Phule Safed, onion slices','The results obtained from this investigation clearly concluded that different chemical pretreatments marked significant influence on the chemical characteristics of onion slices. The study concluded that pungency, ascorbic acid and titrable acidity showed decreasing trend and total soluble solids, reducing sugars, total sugars and non reducing sugars showed increasing trend during storage. As stated in results, onion slices prepared from Phule Safed pretreated with 0.5% KMS showed better retention of total soluble solids, reducing sugars and total sugars whereas, pungency, ascorbic acid retained better with onion slices prepared from Agrifound Dark Red pretreated with 0.5% KMS. ','INTRODUCTION\r\nThe most widely cultivated species of the genus Allium which belongs to the family Alliaceae is onion (Allium cepa L), also known as bulb onion or common onion (Brewster, 2008). It is necessary to employ modern preservation techniques to extend storage life for better distribution and to preserve them for utilization in the off-season. Onions stored for long periods are subject to storage rot, sprouting, rooting, and loss of water (Akbari and Patel 2003). The storage losses of onion in India ranges from 30 to 60% due to various factors such as physiological loss in weight (25-30%), rotting due to fungal diseases (10-15%) and sprouting of bulbs (10-15%) (Pramod et al., 2014). Dehydrated onions are simple to use and have more shelf life than fresh ones. Dehydration of onion is necessary for consumption, storage and utility of onion in off-season. By dehydrating the produce, the bulkiness of the fresh produce is reduced which in turn reduces the transportation cost and is easy to handle. Dried onions are of considerable importance in world trade and made in several forms viz., flaked, minced, chopped and powdered. Pre-treatments play an important role in permeabilisation, enzyme inactivation, oxidation, and acceleration of drying rate in many fruits and vegetables (Tiwari et al., 2021). Dehydrated onion is also used as a flavouring additive in several products in food industries such as meat products, sauces, soups, salad dressings, pickles and other snack items (Lewicki et al., 1998). In dehydration of onion, the moisture content is reduced to a safe storage level without destroying its texture, colour, flavour and nutritive value under controlled conditions (Adarsh et al., 2014). Various dehydration techniques have been reported by several workers to improve the quality of dehydrated onions (Pawar et al., 1988; Singh and Sodhi 2000; Kalra and Bharadwaj 1981; Sagar, 2001). Pretreatments are common in most drying processes to improve product quality or process efficiency. Potassium metabisulphite is used as a stable source of sulphur dioxide. Calcium chloride was reported to be a possible inhibitor of browning. Its inhibitory effect is due to the chelation of calcium with amino acids. Sodium chloride kills or limits the growth of food borne pathogens and spoilage organisms by decreasing water activity. The aim of this experiment is to find the effect of chemical pretreatments on chemical characteristics of dehydrated onion slices.\r\nMATERIALS AND METHODS\r\nA. Raw material collection and Sample preparation\r\nThe varieties \'Agrifound Dark Red\' and \'Phule Safed\' were procured from two completely different production catchments specifically Kurnool and Nasik. The bulbs of \'Agrifound dark red\' are dark red in colour, globular in shape with tight skin and moderately pungent, and \'Phule Safed\' bulbs are also globular in shape with tight skin but with silvery attractive white colour and good keeping quality.\r\nCare was taken to choose good quality onion by considering significant factors like size, shape and freedom from physical damage. The onion bulbs were then thoroughly cleansed to rid of any dirt or dust particles attached to the surface.\r\nB. Preparation of onions for pretreatments\r\nThe cleaned onions were peeled manually by removing the skin and therefore the first layer. After peeling, they were washed thoroughly with water and then trimmed so as toavoid leaching of pungency. Onions were sliced to 2 to 5 mm thickness by using a sharp stainless steel knife in the direction perpendicular to the vertical axis.\r\nC. Pretreatment method\r\nChemicals used for pre-treatment were 0.5% KMS, 2% CaCl2 and 2% NaCl. 0.5 % KMS is prepared by dissolving 5 grams of KMS in one litre of distilled water. 2% CaCl2 and 2% NaCl solutions were prepared by dissolving 20 grams of CaCl2 and 20 grams of NaCl each in one litre of distilled water. Bulbs were soaked in these pretreatments for ten minutes. The constant ratio of pre-treatment solution to sample is 4 litres per 1 kg of onion slices i.e., 4:1 at room temperature. \r\nD. Dehydration and preparation of onion powder\r\nThe drying experiments were conducted in the laboratory using tray drier. A known weight of untreated and pretreated onion slices were spread uniformly in thin layer on aluminum trays and air dried to remove water adhered on the surfaces of strained slices. Onion slices were then thoroughly dried at 50-60 oC temperature till they reached the desired product quality and moisture content i.e., 4-7%. \r\nRESULTS AND DISCUSSIONS\r\nThe fresh Agrifound Dark Red onion contained5.11 µ mol pyruvic acid and 3.32 µ mol pyruvic acid in Phule Safed variety. Decreasing trend of pungency was observed during the storage of onion slices (Table 2). Among the pretreatments, 0.5% KMS treated onion slices recorded maximum pungency (5.39 µ mol pyruvic acid/g) which is followed by 2% CaCl2 (5.29 µ mol pyruvic acid/g) whereas, control samples recorded minimum pungency (5.01 µ mol pyruvic acid/g)where as among varieties, maximum pungency was recorded in Agrifound Dark Red (6.08 µ mol pyruvic acid/g) and Phule Safed recorded minimum pungency (4.31 µ mol pyruvic acid/g). On all days of storage (initial, 15, 30, 45 and 60 days) Agrifound Dark Red variety pretreated with 0.5% KMS recorded maximum pungency of 6.20, 6.19, 6.16, 6.12 and 6.09 µ mol pyruvic acid/g and minimum content of pungency of 4.05, 4.03, 4.00, 3.94 and 3.89 µ mol pyruvic acid/g were recorded in untreated Phule Safed onion slices on all days of storage i.e., initial, 15th, 30th, 45th and 60th day of storage. The reduction in pungency might be attributed to hydrolysis of polysaccharides and non reducing sugars where acid is utilized for converting them to hexose sugars and degradation of pungency constituents in onion. Similar results were also reported by Shock et al. (2004), who concluded that, there was a correlation between increase in total sugar and decrease in pyruvic acid.\r\nThe results regarding total soluble solids showed that, there was significant difference among all the treatments and total soluble solids increased from initial to 60th day of storage in both the varieties (Table 3). Maximum total soluble solids was recorded in onion slices pretreated with 0.5% KMS from the initial day of storage (13.33 ºBrix) whereas, minimum total soluble solids was recorded in untreated onion slices from the initial day of storage (12.97 ºBrix) and increases further on the progress of days. Among the varieties, maximum total soluble solids was recorded in Phule Safed from the initial day of storage (13.6 ºBrix) to final day of storage (19.33 ºBrix) and minimum total soluble solids was recorded in Agrifound Dark Red from initial (12.69 ºBrix) to final day of storage (18.73 ºBrix). On the initial, 15th and 30th day of storage, onion slices of Phule Safed pretreated with 0.5% KMS recorded maximum total soluble solids i.e., 13.79, 14.82 and 15.66 ºBrix respectively whereas, minimum total soluble solids was recorded in untreated Agrifound Dark Red variety i.e., 12.52, 13.45 and 14.36 ºBrix on initial, 15th and 30th day of storage. The interaction effect on 45th day of storage, the maximum total soluble solids was recorded in Phule Safed pretreated with 0.5% KMS (17.43 ºBrix) and minimum was recorded in untreated Agrifound Dark Red (16.01 ºBrix) but on 60th day of storage, maximum total soluble solids was recorded in Phule Safed pretreated with 2% CaCl2 (19.71 ºBrix). The increase in TSS with the increase in storage period might also be attributed to the conversion of polysaccharides into soluble forms of sugars (Singh and Dhankhar 1992). These findings are in agreement with the findings of Dabhi et al. (2008).\r\nReducing sugars increased significantly with the increase in storage period from initial day of storage to 60th day of storage and there was significant difference among all the treatments (Table 4). There was an increase in sugar content after dehydration which may be due to removal of moisture. Among the pretreatments, highest reducing sugars was recorded in the onion slices pretreated with 0.5% KMS from the initial day of storage (18.72%) to 60th day of storage (26.14%) whereas, lowest reducing sugars was recorded in untreated onion slices from initial (16.90%) to the final day of storage (24.13%). Among the varieties, highest reducing sugars was recorded in Phule Safed from initial (18.05%) to 60th day of storage (25.08%) and lowest reducing sugars was recorded in Agrifound Dark Red from initial (17.24%) to the final day of storage (24.93%). Similar result was reported by Dev et al., (2006). Ghavidel and Davoodi (2010) reported that CaCl2 along with KMS pretreated samples showed higher sugar content followed by samples pretreated with CaCl2 and NaCl and also stated that changes in sugar content may be related to two reasons i.e., non-enzymatic browning which was found to be more in control samples and other is dipping duration. It is suggested that degradation of reducing sugar during storage is attributed to the formation of browning compounds resulting by the reaction of sugars and amino acids (Kyung et al., 2012). Wani (2015) reported that, irrespective of pretreatments and drying methods, there was a decrease of reducing sugars during storage.\r\nTotal sugars increased from initial to final day of storage. From table 5 there was significant difference among all treatments and changes in total sugar content during storage might be related to the non-enzymatic reaction (Ghavidel and Davoodi 2010). Increase in total sugar content during storage period might be due to accelerated hydrolysis of insoluble polysaccharides and other carbohydrate polymers and increased degree of inversion of sugar. Among the pretreatments, 0.5% KMS pretreated onion slices recorded highest total sugars from initial day (37.28%) to the final day of storage (44.66) whereas, lowest total sugars was recorded in untreated onion slices (34.19%). Among the varieties, Phule Safed recorded highest total sugars from initial (37.00%) to the final day of storage (44.58%) and lowest total sugars was recorded in Agrifound Dark Red from the initial day (34.43%) to 60th day of storage (40.57%). During storage period, there was a considerable increase in reducing sugars level and corresponding decline in non-reducing sugars. This could be due to the inversion of non-reducing sugars to reducing sugars caused by acid present in dehydrated product (Table 6).\r\nThe results showed that there was a significant difference among all the treatments. Ascorbic acid content decreased significantly with the increase in storage period from the initial day of storage to 60 days after processing (Table 7). Among the pretreatments, better retention of ascorbic acid was recorded in the onion slices pretreated with 0.5% KMS from the initial day (35.40 mg 100 g-1) to 60th day of storage (30.03 mg 100 g-1) whereas, minimum retention of ascorbic acid was recorded in untreated onion slices from the initial day of processing (33.45 mg 100 g-1) to the final day of storage (28.71 mg 100 g-1). Among the varieties, Agrifound Dark Red variety recorded better retention of ascorbic acid from the initial day of processing (34.75 mg 100 g-1) to 60th day of storage (29.60 mg 100 g-1) and minimum retention of ascorbic acid was observed in Phule Safed from initial (34.11 mg 100 g-1) to the final day of storage (29.02 mg 100 g-1). There was more retention of ascorbic acid content in dehydrated onions which were pretreated with KMS. The entire phenomenon is not readily explicable. Similar findings with slight variations were reported earlier by Teaotia et al., (1987). A decreasing trend in ascorbic acid content of onion bulbs with increase in storage period was noticed by Singh and Dhankhar (1992). The changes in the titrable acidity during storage might be due to the reaction of basic amines to form compounds of lower basicity and degradation of sugars into acids as a result of maillard reaction. Pretreatment of onion slices with NaCl samples showed slightly more acidity as compared to the untreated samples. Similar findings were reported in tomato by Ghavidel and Davoodi (2010). There is decreasing trend in titrable acidity with increase in storage period. Among the pretreatments, the maximum titrable acidity was observed in the onion slices pretreated with 2% NaCl from the initial day (3.57%) to 60th day of storage (1.97%) which is followed by 0.5% KMS from initial (3.20%) to final day of storage (1.65%), whereas, minimum titrable acidity was registered in onion slices pretreated with 2% CaCl2 from initial day of storage (2.45%) to final day of storage (1.01).\r\nAmong the varieties, maximum titrable acidity was recorded in Agrifound Dark Red onion slices from the initial day (3.49%) to 60th day of storage (1.65%) and minimum titrable acidity was registered in Phule Safed on the initial day (2.58%) to the final day of storage (1.33%). The interaction effect between pretreatments and varieties was found to be non significant (Table 8).\r\n \r\n','Srujana Eda, V. Sudha Vani, R.V. Sujatha and D.R. Salomi Suneetha (2022). Effect of Chemical Pretreatments on the Chemical Characteristics of Dehydrated Onion Slices. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 14(2a): 576-582.'),(5213,'134','Genetic Variability, Heritability and Genetic Advance in Blackgram (Vigna mungo L.)','K. Sai Deekshith*, V. Venkanna, K. Rukmini Devi, D. Saida Naik and C.V. Sameer Kumar','97 Genetic Variability, Heritability and Genetic Advance in Blackgram _Vigna mungo L._ Sai Deekshith.pdf','',1,'Blackgram is a self-pollinated crop, hence there is less varition. So in order to obtain high yielding varieties there is a need to know about diversity between parents. To know the diversity between parents, the present study of genetic variability was carried out. The present investigation was carried out in Agricultural Research Station, Madhira Telangana (State) to estimate genetic variability, heritability and genetic advance in blackgram. Analysis of variance was studied for 12 yield and yield attributing traits revealed highly significant differences among the genotypes for all the characters indicating the presence of appreciable amount of genetic variation for all the traits. The genotype MBG-1080 × LBG-17 found to be higher yield per plant followed by TU-94-2 × LBG-17, TBG-104 × TU-40 and remaining genotypes found to be lesser yield. The genotypes, GBG-1 × LBG-20, TU-94-2 × IPU-02-43 and TBG-104 × IPU-02-43 were found to be early maturing in nature. The genotype MBG-1080 × LBG-17 found to be had greater plant height, more number of clusters and pods, higher biological yield and pod yield per plant than the remaining genotypes. Moderate estimates of GCV and PCV were observed for number of clusters per plant, number of seeds per pod and 100 seed weight. Hence simple selection would be beneficial in increasing these traits.100 seed weight had high heritability along with high genetic advance as a percent of mean, indicating additive gene action and thus phenotypic selection would be more effective for improving these characters. For harvest index, number of pods per plant, seed yield per plant, biological yield per plant, plant height, pod yield per plant and high heritability coupled with moderate genetic advance percent of mean and suggested that presence of non additive gene action.','GCV, Heritability, PCV, Vigna mungo, Variability','High heritability estimates were found for the traits viz., plant height, number of pods per plant, pod length, harvest index, biological yield per plant, 100 seed weight, pod yield per plant and seed yield per plant showing that the environment has the least impact on these traits.100 seed weight was the trait with high heritability and high genetic advance as percent of mean. As a result, direct selection for the trait mentioned above would be useful in future breeding programmes to increase yield. For harvest index, number of pods per plant, seed yield per plant, biological yield per plant, plant height, pod yield per plant and high heritability coupled with moderate genetic advance percent of mean and suggested that presence of non additive gene action.','INTRODUCTION\r\nPulses also known as “grain legumes” which are rich in proteins, fibres and vitamins as well as amino acids. They are most popular in underdeveloped nations, but they are gradually becoming recognized around the world as a good portion of a balanced diet. Pulse crops can continue to be a great alternative for farmers in the developing world with the introduction of new varieties and the promotion of better management practices. One of India\'s most cherished pulses is Blackgram (Vigna mungo L. Hepper), popularly known as urdbean in India, is an important short duration pulse crop and self pollinating diploid (2n = 22) with a small genome size estimated to be 0.56pg/1C (574 Mbp) (Gupta et al., 2006). Blackgram is an excellent source of all nutrients including proteins (25-26%), carbohydrates (60%), fat (1.5%), minerals, amino acids and vitamins. In terms of dietary protein content, it is second next to soybean. It contains high amounts of thiamine, riboflavin, niacin, vitamin A and C. It has a nitrogen content of 78 to 80 per cent in the form of albumin as well as globulin. The dried seeds are a good source of phosphorus and have a good caloric value (100 g of blackgram has 347 calories). \r\nThe lack of high-yielding varieties that can withstand environmental changes to a significant degree is the main problem restricting the production and productivity of pulses. Therefore, it is imperative to create HYV resistant varieties of various pulse crops, such as mung bean, that are resilient to abiotic stresses, particularly drought conditions. Hence the present study was taken up aiming to ascertain the variability heritability and genetic advance among the genotypes for traits related and for framing the effective breeding programme. \r\nMATERIAL AND METHODS\r\nThe field experiment was laid out in medium black soil under irrigated conditions at Agricultural Research Station, Madhira during Rabi 2021-22. The experiment site is located on latitude 16°92N and longitude 80°36S and at an altitude of 38 m from mean sea level. The experimental material consisted of 34 genotypes (Table 1) were grown in “Randomised Block Design” in three replications. Each genotype was sown in 3 rows of 4m length with the spacing of 30 × 10 cm. As per the recommended packaging practices, all cultural operations were followed to raise a good crop.\r\nObservations on quantitative features were recorded from five randomly selected competitive plants in each genotype from each replication. On a plot basis, days to 50% flowering and days to maturity were recorded. The observations like Plant height, Number of clusters per plant, number of pods per plant, pod length, number of seeds per pod, pod yield per plant, biological yield per plant, 100 seed weight, harvest index and yield per plant recorded from five randomly selected plants. From statistical analysis, mean value of each character was taken. Analysis of variance was estimated by following the standard procedures. The PCV and GCV were calculated as per the method suggested by Burton (1952), whereas heritability and expected genetic advance were estimated according to Johnson et al. (1955); Allard (1960). Heritability in broad sense (h2b) was calculated as per Burton and Devane (1953).\r\nRESULTS AND DISCUSSION\r\nTo determine the effectiveness of selection in any crop improvement programme, knowledge of genetic variability is essential. Its existence is essential for broad adaptability and biotic and abiotic stress resistance. The analysis of variance carried out for 12 yield and yield component traits revealed highly significant (at 0.01%) differences among the genotypes for the characters viz., days to 50% flowering, days to maturity, plant height, number of clusters per plant, number of pods per plant, pod length, number of seeds per pod, 100 seed weight, pod yield per plant, biological yield per plant, harvest index and yield per plant (Table 2). These results indicated the presence of considerable amount of genetic variation for all the 12 traits in the experimental material.\r\nThe genotype MBG-1080 × LBG-17 found to be higher yield per plant followed by TU-94-2 × LBG-17, TBG-104 × TU-40 and remaining genotypes found to be lesser yield. In case of early flowering, the genotypes, GBG-1 × LBG-20, TU-94-2 × IPU-02-43 and TBG-104 × IPU-02-43 were found. The genotypes, GBG-1 × LBG-20, TU-94-2 × IPU-02-43 and TBG-104 × IPU-02-43 were found to be early maturing in nature. In case of plant height, MBG-1080 × LBG-17, MBG-207 × LBG-17 and MBG-1080 × TU-40 found to be had long stature. For number of clusters per plant the genotypes, MBG-1080 × LBG-17, TU-94-2 and MBG-1080 were found to be higher than the other genotypes. The genotypes MBG-1080 × LBG-17, MBG-1080 × TU-40 and GBG-1 × TU-40 found to be had more number of pods per plant. For greater pod length, MBG-207, TU-94-2 and LBG-20 genotypes found to be desirable. For number of seeds per pod, PU-31, TU-94-2 and TU-94-2 × IPU-02-43 found to be desirable. For 100 seed weight, TU-94-2 × LBG-20, GBG-1 × TU-40 and TBG-104 genotypes found to be desirable. The genotypes MBG-1080 × LBG-17, TU-94-2 × LBG-17 and TBG-104 × TU-40 found to be had highest pod yield per plant than the other genotypes. The genotypes GBG-1 × LBG-20, MBG-1080 × LBG-17 and PU-31 × TU-40 recorded maximum biological yield. The genotypes TU-94-2 × LBG-17, LBG-17 and TBG-104 × TU-40 recorded higher harvest index than the other genotypes. The results of mean performance were given in Table 3.\r\nKnowing the genetic variation inherent in a specific crop species for a particular trait under development is critical for the success of any breeding programme. The coefficient of variation is used to calculate how much variation there is in a crop species. Estimates of heritability provide information on the amount of transmissible genetic variation among total variation, which defines its responsiveness to selection and the scope of genetic advance in the new population over the original population. If a character is governed by non-additive gene action, it may have a high heritability but a low genetic advance, whereas if it is governed by additive gene action, it will have a high heritability (above 60%) and a high genetic advance, with a lot of potential for improvement. As a result, increasing these characteristics through selection is the most important technique for making genetic gains over generations. The genotypic and phenotypic coefficients of variation, heritability, genetic advance, and genetic advance as a percent of the mean for the genotypes were calculated and given in Table 4.\r\nFor all of the traits investigated, the phenotypic coefficient of variation (PCV) was larger than the genotypic coefficient of variation (GCV), indicating that they were governed by non-additive gene action. Similar results have been recorded by Muthuswamy et al. (2019); Sushmitharaj et al. (2018); Govardhan et al. (2018); Moderate estimates of GCV and PCV were observed for number of clusters per plant (GCV:11.44%, PCV:15.99%), number of seeds per pod (GCV:11.30%, PCV:17.86%) and 100 seed weight (GCV:11.57%, PCV:12.25%). Similar findings for moderate GCV and PCV for number of clusters per plant Tambe et al. (2018); Tank et al. (2018); Rehman et al. (2021). For 100 seed weight similar results for moderate GCV and PCV were obtained earlier by Tank et al. (2018); Panwar et al. (2019); Sathees et al. (2019); Veni et al. (2019); Priya et al. (2021). For number of seeds per pod similar results for moderate GCV and PCV were found earlier by Panigrahi et al. (2015); Sathees et al. (2019). Number of pods per plant (GCV:9.61%, PCV:10.91%) shows moderate PCV with low GCV. Similar line of findings were given by Tambe et al. (2018); Chaitanya et al. (2019).\r\nEstimates of high heritability were found for plant height (73.1%), number of pods per plant (73%), pod length (64.6%), harvest index (81.5%), biological yield per plant (90.3%), 100 seed weight (89.2%), pod yield per plant (78.9) and seed yield per plant (85.1%) showing that the environment has the least impact on these traits. 100 seed weight (h2b=89.2%, GAM=22.51%) had high heritability along with high genetic advance as a percent of mean, indicating additive gene action and thus phenotypic selection would be more effective for improving these characters. High heritability combined with high genetic advance as per cent of mean for100 seed weight was earlier reported by Tank et al. (2018); Sathees et al. (2019); Veni et al. (2019); Umesh and Bharti (2022). For harvest index (h2b = 81.5%, GAM = 12.5%), number of pods per plant (h2b = 73%, GAM = 13.4%), seed yield per plant (h2b = 85.1%, GAM = 14.13%), biological yield per plant (h2b = 90.3%, GAM =15.3%), plant height (h2b = 73.1%, GAM =14.37%), pod yield per plant (h2b =78.9%, GAM =13.08%) and high heritability coupled with moderate genetic advance percent of mean and suggested that presence of non additive gene action. Similar results were observed by Dharmendra et al. (2017) for harvest index. Similar results were observed for plant height by Panda et al. (2017), Bandi et al. (2018), Reddy et al. (2018); Tank et al. (2018); Rehman et al. (2021); for number of pods per plant by Nagmi and Lal (2017); Chauhan et al. (2018); Tambe et al. (2018); Chaithanya et al. (2019); for seed yield per plant by Nagmi and Lal (2017); Chaithanya et al. (2019); for biological yield per plant and harvest index by Rolaniya et al. (2017).\r\nHigh heritability combined with low genetic advance as per cent of mean was recorded for pod length (h2b = 64.6%, GAM = 9.18%). Similar line of findings were observed by Nagmi and Lal (2017); Reddy et al. (2018); Rehman et al. (2021).\r\n','K. Sai Deekshith, V. Venkanna, K. Rukmini Devi, D. Saida Naik and C. V. Sameer Kumar (2022). Genetic Variability, Heritability and Genetic Advance in Blackgram (Vigna mungo L.). Biological Forum – An International Journal, 14(2a): 583-588.');
INSERT INTO `pdf_upload` VALUES (5214,'134','Effect of different Dates of Sowing on Growth, Yield and Quality of Coriander (Coriandrum sativum L.)','Monika Thakur, Puja Rattan*, A.H. Reddy and Anju Pathania','98 Effect of different Dates of Sowing on Growth, Yield and Quality of Coriander _Coriandrum sativum L._ Puja Rattan.pdf','',1,'The Present investigation was conducted during winter season, 2020 at DAV University, Jalandhar to determine the most suitable sowing date and variety for optimum production of coriander in Jalandhar region. Since very little work on the agronomic manipulation of the crop involving sowing time has been done, therefore the present study was planned and executed. The treatment consisted of three sowing dates (15 October, 30 October, 15 November) and three varieties viz., Bharat Kaveri, Punjab Sugandh and Split Seed. The experiment was laid in Factorial Randomized Complete Block design with three replications. Characters studied were days to germination initiation, days to complete germination, plant height (cm), number of leaves per plant, foliage weight (g), days to 50% flowering, number of primary branches, number of secondary branches, number of umbel per plant, number of umbellets per umbel, number of seeds per umbel, days to harvesting, seed yield per plot (g), 1000 seed weight and TSS. Results obtained revealed that sowing dates and varieties has played outstanding role in deciding the yield and yield contributing traits of coriander. Among the sowing dates and varieties studied in the present investigation 15 October and Bharat Kaveri performed superior for most of the characteristics under observation. The maximum plant height, number of leaves per plant, foliage weight, number of primary branches, number of secondary branches, number of umbel per plant, number of umbellets per umbel, number of seeds per umbel, seed yield per plot, 1000 seed weight were witnessed when Bharat Kaveri sown on 15 October.','Date of sowing, coriander, Coriandrum sativum L., seed yield, seed quality','It may be concluded that yield attributing traits like number of leaves per plant, foliage weight, number of primary branches, number of secondary branches, number of umbels per plant, number of umbellets per umbel, number of seeds per umbel, seed yield per plot and 1000 seed weight were observed maximum when Bharat Kaveri was sown on 15 October. However, days to 50% flowering and days to harvesting were observed minimum when Punjab Sugandh sown on 15 November.','INTRODUCTION\r\nCoriander (Coriandrum sativum) is an annual aromatic herb, grown for its green fresh leaves, seed, essential oil and oleoresin. Coriander, also known as cilantro and Chinese parsley, is a member of family Apiaceae (Umbelliferae). It is commonly known as “Dhania” or “Dhana”. It is a dual purpose crop, grown for fresh leaf as well as for seed for use as a spice. It is probably one of the earliest seed spices known to humankind (Pruthi, 1976). The dried ground fruits are major ingredient of curry powder. Whole or ground seeds are also used for flavouring various preparations like pickles, sausage and confectionery items. It is a frequent ingredient in the preparation of Ayurvedic medicines (Said et al., 1996). \r\nIndia is the world’s largest producer, consumer and exporter of the spices. It is also known as “home of the spices” from very ancient times. coriander (Coriandrum sativum) seed is one of the most important spices. Approx. 80% of the world total coriander seed is produced in our country. In India, coriander is mainly cultivated in Rajasthan, Madhya Pradesh, Uttar Pradesh and Southern States like Andhra Pradesh, Karnataka and Tamil Nadu. The country\'s annual production of coriander seeds in 2021 was over 822 thousand metric tons (Anonymous, 2021). There is a limited scope of increasing the area under this crop because of competition with food grain crops. The only way to increase the production is to increase its productivity through sound crop production technology. The coriander is a cool season crop and can be successfully cultivated in rabi season on black cotton or other type of heavy soils which have better water retention capacity. Coriander plants are highly sensitive to the abrupt variations in climatic parameters as it is delicate in nature. Coriander exploits the environment most favourably when it is sown at optimum time (Kuri et al., 2015) since sowing date significantly affects the photoperiodic response of plants and determines yields and qualities (Rasam et al., 2007). \r\nIt is an established fact that a crop when sown at optimum time, it is able to exploit the environmental factors (e.g. sunlight, rainfall, day length etc.) most efficiently. It is the temperature as mediated by solar radiation alone that can make significant differences not only on the process of dry matter accumulation in vegetative phase but dry mater allocation for yield, is also favoured by optimum cardinal temperature. Besides this, in a crop like coriander too early sowing may lead to poor crop establishment due to heat shock and resultantly restricted seed germination. Furthermore, flowering and/ or seed formation stage may coincide with frost attacking period (Bhati et al., 1989). Whereas, the late sown crop may face high temperature during seed filling, which will adversely affect the economic yield due to shortening of net seed filling period and the consequent forced maturity. The proper date of sowing will also take the advantages of the absence of the pest or avoid susceptible stage of the crop. It should synchronise with the most inactive period or lowest pest population. In Punjab region the optimum period of sowing of coriander for green leaves is first week of October and for seed last week of October to the first week of November. However, it can be continued up to last week of December. However, very little work on the agronomic manipulation of the crop involving these factors has been done. Therefore, it was deemed imperative to carry out the present study with the objective of finding out the most effective date of sowing for optimum growth yield and quality of coriander.\r\nMATERIALS AND METHODS\r\nThe present experiment was laid out in Randomized Block Design and three replications. Total nine treatments consisting of different combination of three different sowing dates (15 October, 30 October and 15 November) and three varieties (Bharat Kaveri, Punjab Sugandh and Split Seed) viz., D1V1 (15 October × Bharat Kaveri), D1V2 (15 October × Punjab Sugandh), D1V3 (15 October × Split Seed), D2V1 (30 October × Bharat Kaveri), D2 V2 (30 October × Punjab Sugandh), D2V3 (30 October × Split Seed), D3V1 (15 November × Bharat Kaveri), D3V2 (15 November × Punjab Sugandh) and D3V3 (15 November × Split Seed).Observations on growth, yield and quality parameters viz., days to germination initiation, days to complete germination, plant height (cm), number of leaves per plant, foliage weight per plant, days to 50% flowering, number of primary branches per plant, number of secondary branches per plant, umbels per plant, umbellets per umbel, seed per umbel, days to harvesting, seed yield per plot, 1000 seed weight and total soluble solids (° brix) were recorded. The statistical analysis of data recorded during the course of investigation for all the characters was done by analysis of variance method for factorial randomized block design described by Panse and Sukhatme (1985).\r\n RESULTS AND DISCUSSION \r\nAnalysis of variance for the different growth, yield and quality traits in coriander is presented in Table 1 . Significant differences were observed among all the characters for date of sowing and varieties. Interaction effect of date of sowing and varieties resulted significance differences for all characters under study except for days to germination initiation, days to complete germination, plant height and TSS.\r\nA. Days to germination initiation\r\nSignificantly minimum days to germination initiation (7.47) were recorded in D1 (15 October) than all other sowing dates while, D3 (15 November) revealed significantly maximum days to germination initiation (10.47). Among varieties, significantly minimum days to germination (8.77) were recorded in V3 (Split Seed) and maximum days to germination initiation (9.48) were observed in variety V1 (Bharat Kaveri). Interaction effect of dates of sowing and varieties was found non significant for days to germination initiation. (Table 2)\r\nIn the present study minimum days of germination was observed when sowing was done on 15 October. The present findings are in line with the findings of earlier researchers namely Guha et al. (2014); Karetha et al. (2014); Ali et al. (2015); Lal et al. (2017) in coriander who also observed significant influence of date of sowing on germination in coriander.\r\nB. Days to complete germination\r\nPerusal of data (Table 2) revealed that minimum days to complete germination (13.43 days) were observed when seeds were sown on D1 ( 15 October) which was significantly minimum than all other date of sowing. Maximum days to complete germination (15.40) were recorded in D3 (15 November ) which was significantly maximum than all other date of sowing. Among varieties, V3 (Split Seed) took minimum days to complete germination (14.06 days) which was statistically lowest than all other varieties. Maximum days to complete germination (14.80) was observed in variety V1 (Bharat Kaveri) which was significantly higher than all other varieties under study.\r\nThe interaction of date of sowing and varieties were found non significant for days to complete germination. The results obtained on days to complete germination were similar to those obtained for days to germination initiation which indicated that sowing done on 15 October provided suitable environmental conditions for coriander seeds to germinate. Findings are in accordance with the reports of earlier researchers namely, Guha et al. (2014); Lal et al. (2017) who observed early seed germination at early sowing in coriander. Varieties also influenced complete germination significantly which were also found in the findings of Latye et al. (2016) in fenugreek, Lal et al. (2017); Duwal et al. (2019) in coriander.\r\nC. Plant height (cm)\r\nPlant height was significantly influenced by dates of sowing and varieties. Maximum plant height (32.00 cm) was observed when plants were sown on D1 (15 October) which was significantly tallest among all other dates of sowing. Minimum plant height (28.56 cm) was observed in D3 (15 November) which was statistically at par with plants height observed in D2 (30 October) (28.67cm). Among varieties, maximum plant height (33.44cm) was observed in V1 (Bharat Kaveri) which was significantly highest than other varieties. Significantly minimum plant height (27.89 cm) was observed in varieties V2 (Punjab Sugandh) and V3 (Split Seed) (Table 2).\r\nInteraction effect of dates of sowing and varieties was found non significant for plant height. Significant decrease in plant height in late sowing can be related with higher temperature at the time of harvesting. Similar results were obtained by Ghobadi and Ghobadi (2012); Moniruzzaman et al. (2013); Sharangi and Roychowdhury (2014); Mohonalakshmi et al. (2019) in coriander, Abed and Shebl (2016) in spinach and Dhillon et al. (2019) in fennel.\r\nDifferences in plant height among varieties were observed in the present investigations. The finding corroborate the findings of Kauim et al. (2015); Eltyeb (2015); Latye et al. (2016); Bajad et al. (2017); Mahajan et al. (2017); Pujari et al. (2019); Gandepalli and Prasad (2020) in coriander and Anitha et al. (2018) in fenugreek.\r\nD. Number of leaves per plant\r\nPerusal of data (Table 2) revealed that maximum number of leaves per plant (15.72) were observed in D1 (15 October) which was significantly highest than number of leaves per plant observed in other sowing dates. Minimum number of leaves per plant (14.00) were recorded in D3 (15 November) which was significantly lowest than number of leaves per plant observed in all other sowing dates. Among varieties, maximum number of leaves per plant (15.49) were recorded in V1 (Bharat Kaveri) which was significantly highest than number of leaves per plant observed in all other varieties. Minimum number of leaves per plant (14.39) were observed in V3 (Split seed) which was significantly lowest than number of leaves per plant observed in other varieties. \r\nPerusal of data pertaining to interaction effect of date of sowing and cultivars on number of leaves per plant (Table 3) depicted that maximum number of leaves per plant (16.52) was observed in D2 × V1 (30 October × Bharat Kaveri) which was statistically at par with D1 × V2 (15 October × Punjab Sugandh) and D1 × V1 (15 October × Bharat Kaveri) which resulted in number of leaves per plant to the tune of 16.48 and 16.02, respectively. Minimum number of leaves per plant (13.69) was observed in D3 × V3 (15 November × Split Seed) which was statistically at par with all the treatment except D1 × V1 (15 October × Bharat Kaveri) and D1 × V2 (15 November × Punjab Sugandh) resulting in 16.02 and 16.48 leaves per plant, respectively. Maximum number of leaves per plant were obtained in 15th October sowing and subsequent decrease in number of leaves per plant in delayed sowing emphasis on the fact that early sowing promotes the vegetative growth. These findings were also reported by Wassem and Nadeem (2001); Meena and Malhotra (2006); Moniruzzaman et al. (2013); Mohanalakshmi et al. (2019) in coriander and Abed and Shebl (2016) in spinach.\r\nE. Days to 50% flowering\r\nPerusal of data (Table 2) revealed that D3 (15 November) resulted in minimum days to 50% flowering (96.52) which was significantly lowest than all other sowing dates. Maximum days to 50% flowering (102.40) was observed in D1 (15 October) which was significantly highest than days to 50% flowering observed in all other sowing dates. Among varieties, minimum number of days to 50% flowering (98.36) were recorded in V2 (Punjab Sugandh) which was statistically lowest than other varieties. Maximum number of days to 50% flowering (100.16) was observed in V1 (Bharat Kaveri) which were statistically highest than all other varieties. \r\nData presentation (Table 3) showed interaction effect of dates of sowing and cultivars on days to 50% flowering was significant. It depicted that maximum days to 50% flowering (103.78) observed in D1 × V1 (15 October × Bharat Kaveri) which was statistically higher than other interaction effects. Minimum days to 50% flowering (95.30) were observed in D3 × V2 (15 November × Punjab Sugandh) which was statistically lowest among all other interaction effects.\r\nSowing date greatly affected the flower bud development. It was earliest in the plants sown on 15 November. This suggests that delay in sowing of coriander resulted in earlier flowering. Interaction effects revealed that Punjab Sugandh when sown on 15 November resulted in minimum days to flowering initiation. Early flowering in late planting had also been reported by Rameeh (2012) in mustard.\r\nVarieties varied significantly for days to flowering initiation. The findings are in line with the findings of Anitha et al. (2018) who also observed significant variation among varieties for days to 50% flowering in fenugreek. Our findings are in line with the findings of Bajad et al. (2017); Duwal et al. (2019); Gandepalli and Prasad (2020) in coriander.\r\nF. Number of primary branches \r\nIt can be observed that D1 (15 October) resulted in maximum number of primary branches (12.15) which was significantly highest than number of primary branches observed in all other sowing dates. Minimum number of primary branches (6.35) were observed in D3 (15 November) which was significantly lowest than number of primary branches observed in all other sowing dates. Among varieties, maximum number of primary branches (10.54) were observed in V1 (Bharat Kaveri) which was significantly highest than number of primary branches observed in all other varieties. Minimum number of primary branches (8.70) was reported in V3 (Split Seed) which were significantly lowest than number of primary branches observed in all other varieties (Table 2).\r\nData pertaining to interaction effects of dates of sowing and varieties on number of primary branches is presented in Table 3. It depicted that maximum number of primary branches (13.55) was recorded in D2 × V1 (30 October × Bharat Kaveri) which was statistically at par with D1 × V2 (15 October × Punjab Sugandh), D1 × V3 (15 October × Split Seed) and D1 × V1 (15 October × Bharat Kaveri) which produced in 13.38, 11.72 and 11.35 branches, respectively. Minimum number of primary branches (5.80) were observed in D3 × V3 (15 November × Split Seed) which was statistically at par with D2× V2 (30 October × Punjab Sugandh), D3 × V1 (15 November × Bharat Kaveri) and D3 × V2 (15 November × Punjab Sugandh) producing 8.25, 6.71 and 6.54 branches, respectively (Table 4). Similar findings were obtained by earlier researcher namely, Sharangi and Roychowdhary (2014); Mohanalakshmi et al. (2019) in coriander, Mengistu and Yomoah (2010) in carrot and Bhutia et al. (2017) in fenugreek. \r\nG. Number of secondary branches\r\nPerusal of data (Table 2) revealed that D1 (15 October) resulted in maximum number of secondary branches (21.07) which was significantly highest than number of secondary branches observed in all other sowing dates. Minimum number of secondary branches (17.29) were recorded in D2 (30 October) which was significantly lowest than number of secondary branches observed in all other sowing dates. Among varieties, V1 (Bharat Kaveri) produced maximum number of secondary branches (20.78) which was significantly highest than number of secondary branches observed in all other varieties. Variety, V3 (Split Seed) produced minimum number of secondary branches (17.22) which was significantly lowest than number of secondary branches observed in all other varieties.\r\nInteraction effects of date of sowing and varieties significant for number of secondary branches and are presented in Table 4. It depicted that maximum number of secondary branches (27.27) were recorded in D1×V1(15 October × Bharat Kaveri) which was significantly highest than all other interactions. Minimum number of secondary branches (16.87) were recorded in D2 × V3 (30 November × Split Seed) which was statistically at par with all the treatment except D1 × V1 (15 October × Bharat Kaveri).\r\nMaximum number of secondary branches were observed when Bharat Kaveri was sown on 15 October indicating effect of sowing dates on different varieties for number of secondary branches. Similar results were obtained by Yousaf et al. (2002) who also observed significant effect of sowing dates on growth and yield of canola variety (sarson), Kaium et al. (2015) in coriander, Sowmya et al. (2017); Tamboli et al. (2020) in fennel.\r\nH. Days to harvesting\r\nPerusal of data representing effect of dates of sowing and varieties on days to harvesting, revealed that minimum number of days to harvesting (151.40) were observed in D3 (15th November) which was significantly highest than all other sowing dates. Maximum number of days to harvesting (175.78) were observed in D1 (15th October) which was significantly highest than number of days to harvesting observed in all other sowing dates. Among Varieties, minimum number of days to harvesting (165.04) was observed in V2 (Punjab Sugandh) which was significantly lowest than all other varieties. Maximum number of days to harvesting (166.86) reported in V1 (Bharat Kaveri) which was significantly highest than days to harvest all other varieties (Table 2).\r\nIn case of early planting late physiological maturity indicates a prolonged vegetative phase which could have resulted in better seed yield as indicated in seed yield per plot. The results corroborate the findings of early researches namely Sultana et al. (2016); Bhutia et al. (2017) who observed that fenugreek plants sown late took least time to attain maturity. Guha et al. (2014) also observed the similar results in coriander.\r\nVarieties varied significantly for harvest duration Punjab Sugandh showed minimum days to harvest. The significant difference for harvest duration among varieties might be due to difference in their growth habits. These results have close conformity with results obtained by Bajad et al. (2017); Mahajan et al. (2017); Pujari et al. (2019) in coriander.\r\nI. Foliage weight (g)\r\nFoliage weight was observed at 60 DAS and the data depicted that maximum foliage weight (5.29 g) was observed in D1 (15 October) which was significantly highest than foliage weight observed in plants sown at other sowing dates. Lowest foliage weight (4.36 g) was observed in D3 (15 November) which was significantly lowest than foliage weight of plants sown at other sowing dates. Among varieties, highest foliage weight (5.30g) was observed in V1 (Bharat Kaveri) which was significantly highest than foliage weight observed in all other varieties. Lowest foliage weight (4.48 g) was observed in V3 (Split Seed) which was significantly lowest than foliage weight of all other varieties (Table 5).\r\nInteraction effects of dates of sowing and varieties on foliage weight was significant and presented in Table 6. Data revealed that maximum foliage weight (5.70 g) was observed in D1 × V1 (15 October × Bharat Kaveri) which was statistically at par with D1 × V3 (15 October × Split Seed), D2 × V1 (30 October × Bharat Kaveri) and resulted in 5.58 g, 5.53 g and 4.87 g foliage weight, respectively. Minimum foliage weight (3.73 g) was observed in D2 × V3 (30 October × Split Seed) which was statistically at par with D3 × V1 (15 November × Bharat Kaveri), D1 ×V2 (15 October × Punjab Sugandh) and D3 × V3 (15 November × Split Seed) which resulted in foliage weight to the tune of 4.68 g, 4.61 g and 4.36 g, respectively. Similar results of significant differences in foliage weight due to dates of sowing were also reported by Chaudhari et al. (2009); Karetha et al. (2014); Sharangi and Roy chowdhury (2014); Mohanalakshmi et al. (2019) in coriander and Abed and Shebl (2016) in spinach. Foliage yield was varied significantly among the varieties. It was maximum in Bharat Kaveri which also showed maximum germination percentage, plant height, number of leaves per plant etc. Significant effect of varieties on leaf yield per plant was also observed by Ibrahim and Heyduck et al. (2019) in spinach, Duwal et al. (2019); Gandepalli and Prasad (2020) in coriander, Narayan et al. (2018) in palak.\r\nJ. Number of umbel per plant\r\nEffects of dates of sowing and varieties on number of umbels per plant reveals that maximum number of umbels (21.07) were reported in D1 (15 October) which was significantly highest than number of umbels observed in all other dates of sowing. Minimum number of umbels per plant (17.29) was recorded in D2 (30 October) which was significantly lowest than number of umbel observed in all other sowing dates. Among varieties, V1 (Bharat Kaveri) resulted in maximum number of umbels per plant (20.78) which was significantly highest than number of umbels observed in all other varieties. However, minimum number of umbels (17.22) were reported in V3 (Split Seed) which was statistically lowest than number of umbels observed in all other varieties (Table 5).\r\nInteraction effects of dates of sowing and cultivars on number of umbels per plant is presented in Table 6. Data depicted maximum number of umbels per plant (27.27) in D1 × V1 (15 October × Bharat Kaveri) which was significantly highest than all other interaction effects. Minimum number of umbels (16.88) was observed in D2× V3 (30 November × Split Seed) which was statistically at par with all the treatments except D1 × V1 (15 October × Bharat Kaveri).\r\nIt was observed that there was decrease in number of umbels per plant with delay in sowing. The findings are in line with the findings of Eltyeb (2015) who also advocated the decrease in number of umbels per plant with delayed sowing in coriander. Singh and Singh (2013); Katiyar et al. (2014); Kaium et al. (2015); Bajad et al. (2017); Pujari et al. (2019) also suggested variation among varieties for yield contribution traits such as umbels per plant in coriander and Dhillon et al. (2019) in fennel.\r\nK. Number of umbellets per umbel\r\nPerusal of data (Table 5) revealed that D1 (15 October) showed maximum number of umbellets per umbel (6.07) which was significantly highest than number of umbellets per umbel observed in all other sowing dates. Minimum number of umbellets per umbel (5.31) were recorded in D3 (15 November) which was significantly lowest than all other sowing dates. Among varieties, maximum number of umbellets per umbel (6.06) were observed in V1 (Bharat Kaveri) which was statistically highest than all other varieties. Minimum number of umbellets per umbel (5.25) were recorded in V3 (Split Seed) which was significantly lowest than number of umbellets per umbel observed in other varieties. \r\nInteraction effects of dates of sowing and varieties on number of umbellets per umbel is presented in Table 6. Data depicted that maximum number of umbellets per umbel (6.40) were recorded in D2 × V1 (30 October × Bharat Kaveri) which was statistically at par with all the treatments except D3× V3 (15 November × Split Seed) and D2 × V3 (30 October × Split Seed) which produced 5.25 and 4.33 umbellets per umbel, respectively. Minimum number of umbellets per umbel (4.33) were observed in D2 × V3 (30 October × Split Seed) which was statistically at par with D3 × V3 (15 November × Split Seed). The findings of Mengistu and Yomoah (2010) also revealed decrease in number of umbellets per umbel with delayed sowing in carrot and Sharangi and Roychowdhary (2014) reported similar results in coriander. Varieties also showed significant differences for number of umbellets per plant. The findings are in line with the finding of Singh and Singh (2013); Kaium et al., (2015); Bajad et al. (2017); Gandepalli and Prasad (2020) who also observed significant differences for number of umbellets per umbel in different varieties of coriander.\r\nL. Number of seeds per umbel\r\nPerusal of data (Table 5) revealed that D1 (15th October) showed maximum number of seeds per umbel (27.21) which was significantly highest than number of seeds per umbel observed in all other sowing dates. Minimum number of seeds per umbel (17.67) were observed in D3 (15th November) which was significantly lowest than all other sowing dates. Among the varieties, V1 (Bharat Kaveri) produced maximum number of seeds per umbel (24.26) which was significantly highest than number of seeds per umbel observed in all other varieties. However, variety V3 (Split seed) produced minimum number of seeds per umbel (21.20) which was significantly lowest than all other varieties.\r\nInteraction effects of dates of sowing and varieties on number of seeds per umbel are presented in Table 6. It revealed that D1 × V2 (15th October × Punjab Sugandh) produced maximum number of seeds per umbel (28.60) which was statistically at par with D2 × V1 (30th October × Bharat Kaveri) D1 × V3 (15th October × Split Seed) and D1 × V1 (15th October × Bharat Kaveri), which resulted in number of seeds per umbel to tune of 28.00, 26.67 and 28.37, respectively. Minimum number of seeds per umbel (17.07) were observed in D3 × V3 (15th November × Split Seed) which was statistically at par with D3 × V2 ( 15th November × Punjab Sugandh) and D3 × V1 (15th November × Bharat Kaveri) which resulted in number of seeds per umbel to tune of 17.53, 18.40, respectively.\r\nNumber of seeds per umbel varied significantly with varieties. Similar results were obtained by Meena and Malhotra (2006); Singh and Singh (2013); Kaium et al. (2015); Bajad et al. (2017) in coriander.\r\nM. Seed yield per plot (g)\r\nEffects of dates of sowing and varieties on seed yield per plot revealed that maximum seed yield per plot (708.33 g) was observed in D1 (15th October) which was significantly highest than all other sowing dates. Minimum seed yield (530.56 g) was reported in D3 (15th November) which was significantly lowest than seed yield per plot observed in all other sowing dates. Among varieties, V1 (Bharat Kaveri) resulted maximum seed yield per plot (691.67 g) which was significantly highest than all other varieties. Minimum seed yield (583.33 g) was observed in V3 (Split Seed) which was significantly lowest than seed yield per plot observed in all other varieties (Table 5).\r\nInteraction effects of dates of sowing and cultivars on seed yield per plot (Table 6) revealed that maximum seed yield per plot (750.33 g) was observed in D1 × V3 (15th October × Split seed) which was statistically at par with D1 × V1 (15th October × Bharat Kaveri), D2 × V1 (30th October × Bharat Kaveri) and D2 × V2 (30th October × Punjab Sugandh) which produced seed yield per plot to the tune of 725.00 g, 725.00 g and 691.67 g, respectively. Minimum seed yield per plot (475.00 g) was observed in D3 × V3 (15th November × Split Seed) which was statistically at par with D2 × V3 (30th October × Split Seed) and D3 × V2 ( 15th November × Punjab Sugandh) which resulted in seed yield per plot to the tune of 525.0 g and 491.7 g, respectively \r\nDelayed sowing resulted in reduction in seed yield per plot as revealed from the results. The lower seed yield could be due to shorter growth period of the plants in late sowing which hinder them to make full use of the available resources resulting in lower yield. Similar results were obtained by earlier researcher namely Ayub et al. (2008) in fennel and Sharangi and Roychowdhury (2014). Eltyeb et al. (2015); Mohanalakhshmi et al. (2019) in coriander. Rawal et al., (2015) reported same results in cumin and Bhutia et al., (2017) also observed same results in fenugreek. Significant variation in seed yield per plot among varieties could be due to their genetic makeup. Similar findings were also observed by earlier researcher namely Kaium et al. (2015); Bajad et al. (2017); Mahajan et al. (2017); Pujari et al. (2019) in coriander and Anitha et al. (2018) in fenugreek.\r\nN. 1000 Seed weight (g)\r\nPerusal of data revealed that maximum 1000 seed weight (12.55 g) was observed in D1 (15th October) which was significantly highest than other sowing dates. Minimum 1000 weight (10.47 g) was observed in D3 (15th November) which was significantly lowest than 1000 seed weight observed in all other sowing dates. Among varieties, maximum 1000 seed weight (11.83 g) was observed in V1 (Bharat Kaveri) which was statistically highest than 1000 seed weight observed in all other varieties. Minimum 1000 seed weight (11.29 g) was observed in V2 (Punjab Sugandh) which was statistically lowest than 1000 seed weight observed in all other sowing dates (Table 5).\r\nAmong interaction effects (Table 7), the variety Bharat Kaveri which surpassed other varieties in most of the phenological and yield attributes produced maximum 1000 seed weight when sown on 15thOctober. This suggests that best time to the sow Bharat Kaveri is 15th October and there is greater influence of sowing time on 1000 seed weight. The results are in conformity with the findings of early researchers (Anitha et al., 2016) in fenugreek.\r\n1000 seed weight is one of the important yield component which plays important role in determining the seed yield. It varied significant for different dates of sowing and maximum 1000 seed weight was observed in treatments which were sown on 15th October. This could be due to availability of favourable climatic conditions and prolonged growth period helping in completing all physiological processes leading to increased 1000 seed weight. These findings are in line with the findings of earlier researchers namely Chaudhari et al. (2009) in amaranth, Anitha et al. (2016); Bhutia et al. (2017) in fenugreek, Sharangi and Roychowdhury (2014); Eltyeb (2015) in coriander and Raj et al. (2016) in fennel.\r\nO. Total soluble solids (TSS)\r\nEffects of dates of sowing, varieties and their interactions on total soluble solids (TSS) revealed that maximum TSS (5.37° brix ) was observed in D1 (15th October) which was significantly highest than all other sowing dates. Minimum TSS (4.40° brix) was observed in D3 (15th November) which was significantly lowest than TSS observed in all other sowing dates. Among varieties, maximum total soluble solids (5.44° brix ) were observed in V1 (Bharat Kaveri) which was significantly highest than TSS observed in all other varieties. Minimum TSS (4.79° brix ) was observed in V3 (Split Seed) which was significantly lowest than total soluble solids observed in all other varieties (Table 5).\r\nTSS was found to be greatly influenced by dates of sowing. It was found gradually decreasing with delay in sowing. The results are in close conformity with the findings of Karetha et al. (2014) in coriander.\r\nTSS was significantly varied with the varieties. The finding are in line with findings of earier researchers namely Gandepalli and Prasad (2020) in coriander.\r\n','Monika Thakur, Puja Rattan, A.H. Reddy and Anju Pathania (2022). Effect of different Dates of Sowing on Growth, Yield and Quality of Coriander (Coriandrum sativum L.). Biological Forum – An International Journal, 14(2a): 589-597.'),(5215,'134','Agro-Morphological Characterization of Pigeonpea (Cajanus cajan (L.) Millsp.) germplasm','Patel P.R.*, Padhiyar B.M., Sharma Manish, Padmavati G. Gore and Patel M.P.','99 Agro-Morphological Characterization of Pigeonpea _Cajanus cajan _L._ Millsp._ germplasm PATEL P.pdf','',1,'Genetic variability is prerequisite for any crop improvement programme and phenotypic characterization of crop genetic resources generates important information for plant breeders, therefore the present investigation was undertaken in which three hundred five pigeonpea accessions were evaluated and morphological characterization was carried out during kharif 2021 at Pulses Research Station, SDAU Sardarkrushinagar (Gujarat) under Consortium Research Platform on Agro-biodiversity. Out of three hundred five accession one accessions did not germinate. Majority of the accessions showed very good early plant vigour (212 acc.), semi spreading plant growth habit (292 acc.), indeterminate plant type (304 acc.), yellow flower colour (275acc.), green stem colour (300 acc.), glabrous leaf pubescence (304acc.), sparse streak (198 acc.), glabrous pod pubescence (304 acc.), cylindrical pod shape (304 acc.), green and purple pod colour (293 acc.), very large seeded (19 acc.), plain seed colour pattern (283acc.), medium seed eye width (40 acc.), orange base seed colour (96acc.), globular seed shape (38 acc.) and very low biotic stress susceptibility (4 acc.). Wide range of variability was observed for days to ﬂowering, primary branches, days to maturity and 100 seed weight (9.0-14.0g). Considering the wide range of variability for qualitative and quantitative characters, germplasm has high potential which can be utilized in future pigeonpea improvement programmes. This study thus provides a foundation for the selection of parental material for genetic improvement.','Pigeonpea, Agro-biodiversity, Characterization, Germplasm.','Information on genetic variability among the existing pigeonpea genotypes will increase the efficiency of crop genetic improvement. The present study affirmed that characterization and evaluation of 305 accessions of pigeonpea for agronomic traits are important in discerning genetic variability that can be exploited in plant breeding. The phenotypic traits therefore provide a useful measure of genetic distances among the pigeonpea genotypes and will enable the identification of potential parental materials for future breeding efforts especially in identifying donors for economic traits.','INTRODUCTION\r\nPigeonpea [Cajanus cajan (L.) Millsp.] is the second most important pulse crop of India after chickpea, commonly known as arhar, red gram and tur.It is an important crop for millions of people living in dry regions of the world as it is a multipurpose crop that integrates crop and livestock production, thus contributing to food security (Ayenan, 2017). It is a rich source of protein, carbohydrate, vitamins, lipids and certain minerals. Compared to other food legumes, breeding in pigeonpea has been more challenging due to various crop specific traits and highly sensitive nature to biotic and abiotic stresses. Germplasm is vital resource in generating new plant types having desired traits that help in increasing crop production with quality and thus improve the level of human nutrition. The search for diversity in a germplasm collection is a way of identifying desirable genes for future utilization in breeding, where the diversity in crop species usually depends on mutation, recombination, selection and genetic drift (Bhandari et al., 2017). Germplasm characterization and documentation are important activities in plant genetic resources management and it eases the data retrieval and short listing of accessions for the genetic improvement. Germplasm utilization is increased if detailed characterization of data is obtained for individual accessions, which should include qualitative and quantitative phenotypic traits, genotypic data and responses to biotic and abiotic stresses. Detailed characterization of data is lacking in pigeonpea collections, which emphasizes the need for further data collection and characterization which are the pre-requisite for the utilization of available diversity in the pigeonpea improvement programme. Plant genetic resources are invaluable source of genes and gene complexes for yield and several biotic and abiotic factors and provide raw materials for further genetic improvement (Patel et al., 2021). Therefore, the collection of pigeon pea germplasm and its proper characterization, evaluation, conservation and utilization in improvement programmes assume great significance, especially in view of climate change. Genetic diversity in a crop species can be studied using different methods including morphological and/or phenotypic, biochemical and molecular markers (Mehmood et al., 2007). In the past, morphological traits, both qualitative and quantitative have been successfully used to study genetic diversity in pigeonpea (Kallihal et al., 2016; Navneet et al., 2017; Zavinon et al., 2019). A positive association between two desirable traits makes the job of the plant breeder easy for improving both traits at a time. The present investigation was carried out to analyze the genetic divergence existing in the crop. This information is highly useful for breeders in the selection of parents and breeding material for the development of high yielding varieties of pigeonpea. Hence, the present study was under taken at Pulses Research Station, Sardarkrushinagar Dantiwada Agriculture University, Sardarkrushinagar through the All India Coordinated Research Project on Pigeonpea under Consortium Research Platform on Agro biodiversity to characterize 305 accessions of pigeonpea germplasm (Table 1) during kharif 2021.This study aims to assess the morphological diversity in a collection of pigeon pea accessions with the objective of evaluating the phenotypic variations.\r\nMATERIAL AND METHODS\r\nThe trial was conducted in Augmented Block Design (ABD) during Kharif 2021 at Pulses Research Station, Sardarkrushinagar Dantiwada Agricultural University, Sardarkrushinagar, Gujarat which is located at 72.12 º E longitude, 24.9 º latitude and 154.5 m altitude above MSL. These accessions were divided into eight blocks and each block consisted of 50 accessions with two check varieties viz., BDN 711 and GT 101. The soil of the ﬁeld was sandy loam in texture with pH value of 7.7 to 8.00 having good physical and chemical properties (Organic Carbon = 0.07, K2O = 234.0 kg/ha and P2O5 = 56.0 kg/ha).\r\nThe experimental unit was a two-row plot of 4.0 m long, spaced at 0.60 m apart. Fertilizer dose of 25:50:00 (NPK) were applied as basal. Plots were thinned down after two weeks of crop emergence and plant-to-plant distance of 0.20 m was maintained. The experimental year showed different temperature regimes, humidity, rainfall and sunshine hours during the crop duration (Table 2). All the other recommended agronomical packages and practices were followed to raise a good crop. Data was collected based on the minimal descriptors released by NBPGR, New Delhi (Mahajan et al., 2000) and the list of pigeonpea descriptor released(Anonymous,2020). Five representative plants in each accession were tagged for recording the qualitative and quantitative traits (Anonymous, 2020). Plant protection measures were taken as and when required to raise a good crop.\r\nRESULT AND DISCUSSION\r\nGenetic diversity analysis in pigeonpea is crucial for effective breeding and germplasm conservation. Previous studies examined the genetic diversity of the crop using morphological and agronomic traits (Manyasa et al., 2008). The preliminary characterization of 305 accessions of pigeonpea germplasm were worked out for 20 agro-morphological characters viz., early plant vigour, plant growth habit, plant habit, days to flowering, base flower colour, stem colour, leaf pubescence, streaks pattern, pod pubescence, pod shape, pod colour, days to 80% maturity, 100 seed weight (g), seed colour pattern, seed eye width, base seed colour, seed shape, biotic stress susceptibility, plant height and pod size. Wide range of variability in both quantitative and qualitative characters was observed (Patel et al., 2020). The range of variability and frequency observed in qualitative characters are given in Table 3. Majority of the accessions showed very good early plant vigour (212 acc.), semi spreading plant growth habit (292 acc.), indeterminate plant habit (304 acc.), medium days to flowering (69 acc.), late days to flowering (228 acc.), yellow flower colour (275acc.), green stem colour (300 acc.), glabrous leaf pubescence (304acc.), sparse streak (198 acc.), uniform streak pattern (20 acc.), glabrous pod pubescence (304 acc.), cylindrical pod shape (304 acc.), green and purple pod colour (293 acc.), mid early maturing (30 acc.), medium maturity (119 acc.), very large seed (19 acc.), plain seed colour pattern (283 acc.), medium seed eye width (40 acc.), orange base seed colour (96acc.), globular seed shape (38acc.) and very low biotic stress susceptibility (300 acc.), such germplasm with resistance or tolerance to biotic stress can be an asset to plant breeder in developing resistant cultivar.\r\nThe wide range of variation was observed for early plant vigour (Good to Very good), plant growth habit (Erect & compact to semi spreading), plant habit (Indeterminate), plant height (199-226 cm), days to ﬂowering (125-168 days), base flower colour (Yellow to orange yellow), primary branches (7.0-10.0), days to maturity (175-218 days), stem colour (Green), leaf pubescence (Glabrous), streak pattern (Sparse streak to uniform coverage of second colour), pod pubescence (Glabrous), pod shape (Cylindrical), pod colour (Green to green & purple), pod size (Short to long), 100 seed weight (9.0-14.0g), seed colour pattern (Plain to Speckled), seed eye width (Narrow), base seed colour (White to dark purple), seed shape (Oval to elongate), pods per plant (84-178), pod length (4.0-6.0 cm) and seeds per pod (4.0-5.0) showed wider ranges. The preliminary characterization and descriptive statistics revealed that seed yield, plant height, 100 seed weight, pod length, days to 50% ﬂowering and seeds per pod were the most variable characters. Earlier reports by Kimaro et al. (2021); Ramesh (2017); Sahu et al. (2018); Rupika and Kannan (2014); Upadhyaya et al. (2007); Upadhyaya et al. (2005) have also exhibited the presence of variation for different characters in pigeonpea germplasm accessions.\r\nMean data revealed that some of the accessions showed outstanding performance for different agro-morphological traits viz., plant height IC525757 (162.0 cm) and IC527696 (255.0 cm), primary branches per plant IC261341 (5.2) and IC468389 (13), pods per plant IC525303 (31.4) and IC298609 (225), pod length IC498473 (2.92 cm) and IC525757 (6.54 cm), seeds per pod IC468472 (3.2) and bold seed IC343916. These accessions with potential for different agro-morphological traits may be utilized in crop improvement program through hybridization and selection for developing superior genotypes for yield as well as for biotic and abiotic resistance.\r\n','Patel P.R., Padhiyar B.M., Sharma Manish, Padmavati G. Gore And Patel M.P. (2022). Agro-Morphological Characterization of Pigeonpea (Cajanus cajan (L.) Millsp.) germplasm. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 14(2a): 598-602.'),(5216,'134','Biology of Pod Borer, Helicoverpa armigera (Hubner) on Chickpea Leaves and pods under Laboratory conditions','Pawan Kumar*, D.N. Mishra, D.V. Singh, Sushant Kumar, Ravi Shanker and Aditya Patel','100 Biology of Pod Borer, Helicoverpa armigera _Hubner_ on Chickpea Leaves and pods under Laboratory Conditions Pawan Kumar.pdf','',1,'The biology of gram pod borer Helicoverpa armigera (Hubner) was studied in the biological control laboratory of SVPUA&T, Meerut on chickpea leaves and pods as a food source. The observation on biology of pod borer recorded the average pre-oviposition, oviposition and post oviposition on chickpea leaves and pods lasted 2.60 ± 0.08, 5.00 ± 0.15 and 1.40 ± 0.04, respectively. The pod borer female lays on an average 409.20 ± 12.28 eggs. The incubation periods of eggs were ranges 3.60 ± 0.11 days. The average time duration of first, second, third, fourth, fifth and sixth instars varied 2.60 ± 0.08, 3.40 ± 0.10, 4.40 ± 0.13, 3.80 ± 0.11, 4.40 ± 0.13 and 5.40 ± 0.16 days, respectively. The average pre-pupal and pupal duration ranged 1.80 ± 0.05 and 13.60 ± 0.41 days, respectively. The average male and female adult period ranged 10.40 ± 0.31 and 12.40 ± 0.37 days, respectively. The average length and breadth of eggs ranged 0.47 ± 0.01 and 0.50 ± 0.02 mm, respectively. The average length of first, second, third, fourth, fifth and sixth instars was ranged 1.53 ± 0.05, 3.42 ± 0.10, 10.04 ± 0.30, 22.13 ± 0.66, 30.82 ± 0.92 and 40.95 ± 1.23 mm, respectively. The average breadth of first, second, third, fourth, fifth and sixth instars was ranged 0.50 ± 0.02, 0.72 ± 0.02, 2.76 ± 0.08, 3.23 ± 0.10, 5.04 ± 0.15 and 6.04 ± 0.18 mm, respectively. The mean length and breadth of pre-pupa was ranged 24.75 ± 0.74 mm and 6.25 ± 0.19mm, respectively. The average male and female length ranged 21.86 ± 0.66, 22.50 ± 0.67 mm and breadth ranged 7.06 ± 0.21, 7.37 ± 0.22 mm, respectively. The average length of adult male and female ranged 19.34 ± 0.58, 22.66 ± 0.68 mm and breadth was ranged 35.62 ± 1.07, 40.00 ± 1.20 mm, respectively.','Biology, instars, duration, length and breadth and pod borer','The identification of the pest and its treatment are aided by observations of lifecycle factors. The findings of these investigations could be useful in estimating the field population of H. armigera. The current study of H. armigera biological features provides extensive information on development, survival, and reproduction/fecundity, which is a necessary first step in implementing any control measures. This allows us to identify the venerable stages of H. armigera as well as build chemical, biological, and integrated chickpea control methods.','INTRODUCTION\r\nChickpea (Cicer arietinum L.) is an important pulse crop of India and also known as king of pulses. Chickpea belongs to Fabaceae family. It is native to India, Afghanistan and Ethopia. It is also called as Ceci bean, Bengal gram, Garbanzo bean, Chana and Sanagalu bean. Pulses are the main source of protein among the food crops grown in India. India is the largest producer and consumer of pulses and is considered as “poor man’s meat” because they are the cheapest source of protein, which constitutes about 27 per cent of Indian diet. It is most important pulse crop of the world, cultivated in an area of 13.84 million hectares with a production of 13.65 million tonnes. In India chickpea, is grown in an area of 9.85 million hectares with production of 11.99 million tonnes. In India, Rajasthan is the largest chickpea growing state with an area of 2.46 million hectares with production of 2.66 million tonnes followed by Maharashtra and Madhya Pradesh. Uttar Pradesh is the 4th largest producer with an area of 0.62 million hectares with production of 0.85 million tonnes (Anonymous, 2021).\r\nChickpea pods in raw form are consumed as both whole fried or boiled and salted. It is made into split pulse (Chana dal) which is cooked and eaten and as flour (Besan) out of which a variety of dishes like snacks and sweets are made. Fresh green leaves and grains are used as vegetables (Chhole). It is being used increasingly as a substitute for animal protein. The straw of chickpea is an excellent source of fodder for cattle besides both husk and bits of the \'Dal\' serve as valuable cattle feed. Chickpea seed contains 18.22 per cent protein, 16-62 per cent total carbohydrate, 47 per cent starch, 5 per cent fat, 6 per cent crud fibre, 6 per cent soluble sugar and 3 per cent ash (Jukanti et al., 2012). Although pulses have been consumed for thousands of years for their nutritional qualities (Kerem et al., 2007). Besides being rich in protein, its ability to enrich the soil fertility by fixing large quantities of atmospheric nitrogen with the help of symbiotic bacteria mainly Rhizobium species is economically sounder and environmentally acceptable which are capable of fixing 40 kg nitrogen per hectare and reduce the requirement of other synthetic chemical fertilizer. The adult moths of Gram pod borer, Helicoverpa armigera are typically dull light brown in color with a wing expanse of 30-45 mm. Fore wings of the moth are with a series of irregular, a pale band near the margin. Hind wings are pale with a dark broad outer margin with a pale patch in it. Lifecycle of H. armigera take 4-6 weeks from egg to adult in summer and 8-12 weeks in spring or autumn. The Helicoverpa armigera lifecycle stages are egg, larva, pupa and adult. The female moths lay eggs on tender parts of the plant, a single moth can lay up to 500-890 eggs. The freshly laid eggs of H. armigera are yellowish-white in colour. The apical area of egg is smooth and the rest of the surface sculptured in the form of longitudinal ribs. Larva of H. armigera had six distinct instars in chickpea (Ali et al., 2009).\r\nMATERIALS AND METHODS\r\nRearing of Helicoverpa armigera was managed in Biological Control Laboratory, Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel University of Agriculture and Technology, Meerut.\r\nRearing of H. Armigera. Pod borer larvae were gathered in great numbers from the chickpea crop in order to research the biology of the H. armigera. To prevent cannibalism, each larva was raised separately in a plastic jar at ambient temperature. The larvae were given fresh chickpea leaves or pods to eat. Muslin fabric served as the cover for each plastic container. The plastic jar\'s third section was filled with moist sand, which creates the ideal environment for pupation. In the plastic jar, the mature larvae pupated. In order to capture the eggs, the newly emerging moths were released in pairs. A piece of muslin cloth secured with a rubber band kept the top of the jar closed. For egg laying, fresh chickpea leaves or pods were employed. Adults were given nourishment in the form of a 10% honey solution that was applied to cotton swabs. The female moths placed their eggs on muslin fabric, foliage, or seed pods. Using a wet camel comb, these eggs were gently retrieved.\r\nFecundity: Each mated female moth was housed in a plastic jar to evaluate the fecundity. To encourage egg laying, chickpea leaves or pods were placed in each jar. Fresh leaves or pods were added daily to replace the old ones containing the eggs. Every day, the eggs on each leaf or pod were counted. This practice was carried out till the female passed away. Eggs were occasionally placed on the muslin fabric and the jar\'s walls. In such circumstances, these will be directly numbered without being taken off of these surfaces.\r\nDuration of larval instars: Larvae between 0 and 24 hours old were used to calculate the length of the six larval instars. Individual larvae were raised in plastic jars. The muslin cloth served to keep each jar closed. Every day, fresh leaves or pods from the field were brought in to replenish the food in each jar. By using an ocular micrometre, daily observations were made of things like length, breadth, the length of the larval instar, and moulting. The last instar\'s exuviae were visible to the naked eye. As a result, the length and width of various larval instars were noted.\r\nPre-pupal and pupal duration: Pre-pupal and pupal durations, which measure the intervals between the last larval skin being shed and the end of eating, were calculated. We collected the freshly emerged larvae for investigation.\r\nAdult. When the moths emerged, their size and colour were evaluated. The difference between male and female moths was based on whether the female had a tuft of hairs at the end of its abdomen while the male did not. To examine the pre-oviposition, oviposition, and post-oviposition periods as well as adult longevity and fecundity, five male and female moths of the same age group were paired independently in an oviposition cage. With the use of an ocular micrometre, their length and width with spread wings were also measured. \r\nPre-oviposition, oviposition, post-oviposition period and fecundity. The pre-oviposition period was calculated from the day the female became an adult to the day the egg-laying process started. Similar to this, the time from the beginning of egg laying to the end of egg laying was referred to as the oviposition period, and the time from the end of egg laying to the death of the female was referred to as the post-oviposition period.\r\nRESULTS AND DISCUSSION\r\nThe biology of gram pod borer Helicoverpa armigera (Hubner) was studied in the biological control laboratory on chickpea leaves and pods as a food source from January to February during Rabi, 2021. The biology studied of Helicoverpa armigera were carried out with five sets of plastic jar 1/3 filled with soil. The average maximum and minimum temperature during the study period was 23.46 ± 0.70°C and 8.76 ± 0.26°C, morning and evening relative humidity was 86.76 ± 2.60 and 54.4 ± 1.63 percent, respectively. The obtained results are obtained as follows.\r\nEgg. Before hatching, the freshly placed eggs of H. armigera were sculptured yellowish-white and shimmering at first. The eggs\' incubation time was 3.60 ± 0.11 days, and their sizes ranged from 0.47 ± 0.01 mm in length to 0.50 ± 0.02 mm in breadth (Tables 1 and 2). Infertile eggs were those that did not hatch after four to five days and were discarded. After 3 – 4 days, the infertile eggs went from being yellow to being more yellow and shrivelled. The findings made it clear that the incubation time was between three and four days.\r\nLarvae. The newly hatched larvae of H. armigera were raised on chickpea leaves and pods in order to evaluate the size, shape, colour, and duration of several larval instars. Six larval instars were discovered throughout the current study. The observations regarding the larval instars are shown in Table 1. Larvae underwent five moults throughout that time.\r\nFirst instar. The colour and form of first instar larvae were not significantly different over the Rabi seasons. The newly hatched larva was semi-translucent, yellowish white in colour, and had longitudinal lines that were orange-yellow on its dorsal side. First instar larvae were found to have an average body size of 1.53 ± 0.05 mm and 0.50 ± 0.02 mm, respectively (Table 1).\r\nThe information in Table 2 showed that during the Rabi season, the initial instar\'s development lasted between two and four days, with a mean time of 2.60 ± 0.08 days.\r\nSecond instar. The second instar larvae were seen to grow in size, change colour to a brownish yellow, have black thoracic legs, and had very fine hairy structures on their body surfaces. According to the findings (Table 1), second instar larvae had average body length and breadth measurements of 3.42 ± 0.10 and 0.72 ± 0.02 mm, respectively.\r\nLarvae in their second instar developed on average for 3.40 days with a standard deviation of 0.10 days (Table 2).\r\nThird instar. Larvae in their second instar moulted into their third instar, which is longer than the first instar and has longitudinal lines on its body and a brownish head. The outcomes followed a similar pattern, and during the study period, average body length and breadth of 10.04 ± 0.30 and 2.76 ± 0.08 mm, respectively, were noted (Table 1).\r\nThe third instar larvae had a mean developmental time of 4.40 ± 0.13 days, according to Table 2\'s data.\r\nFourth instar. The fourth instar larvae showed no discernible alteration. The larvae showed, however, differ in terms of colour and the amount of longitudinal stripes. Larvae in their fourth instar were measured, and their average body length and breadth were 22.13 ± 0.66 and 3.23 ± 0.10 mm, respectively (Table 1).\r\nThe fourth instar\'s developmental stage lasted between three and five days. A fourth instar larval phase of 3.80 ± 0.11 days on average was noted.\r\nFifth instar. The fifth instar larva\'s colour and form were described as being light brown with continuous dorsal stripes and brown lateral stripes. The head was a rusty brown colour. The average body length and breadth of fifth instar larvae were 30.82 ± 0.92 and 5.04 ± 0.15 mm, respectively, according to the results shown in Table 1. \r\nThe information in Table 2 showed that it typically took 4-5 days for fifth instar larvae to mature into sixth instar larvae.\r\nSixth instar. Larvae in the sixth instar had small hairs scattered here and there on their pale green and greenish yellow bodies. The thoracic and anal shields, as well as the thoracic legs, were all brown in colour, yet the larvae\'s reddish brown head was visible. The sixth instar larva has a convex dorsal form but a flattened ventral shape. Larvae in their sixth instar were measured and found to have an average size of 40.95 ± 1.23 mm and 6.04 ± 0.18 mm (Table 1). The information in Table 2 makes it evident that larval development followed a similar pattern, with the minimum developmental duration of the sixth instar being reported as 5–6 days and the average developmental period being 5.40 ±0.16 days.\r\nPre-pupa. After being fully nourished, the sixth instar larvae stopped feeding, stopped moving, changed colour, crumpled, and slenderized their bodies. Before the pupa formed, the colour later became darker. Pre-pupae had an average length and breadth of 24.75 ± 0.74 and 6.25 ± 0.19 mm, respectively (Table 1).\r\nThe information in Table 2 showed that H. armigera pre-pupal period ranged from one to three days. The average number of days in the pre-pupal phase was 1.80 ± 0.05, it was found.\r\nPupa. The pupae were clearly visible to be widely spherical internally but tapering posteriorly. Within 24 hours, the freshly formed yellowish green pupa turned light brown and then darkened even more before the moth emerged. The information in Table 1 demonstrated that there were differences in the measurements of male and female pupae. Female pupae measured 22.50 ± 0.67 mm in length and 7.37 ± 0.22 mm in width. Similar to female pupae, male pupae measured 21.86 ± 0.66 mm in length and 7.06 ± 0.21 mm in width (Table 1).\r\nAccording to results on pupal period (Table 2), the pupal period spans from 12 to 16 days. 13.60 ± 0.41 days on average were needed to emerge as adults.\r\nAdult. The forewings of the medium-sized adults were yellowish brown with rows of dots along the edge. Each forewing\'s underside bore a black mark in the shape of a kidney. The apical portion of each of the light-colored hind wings had a black colour patch. Male and female morphologically resembled one other quite closely, with the exception of the female\'s tuft of hairs on the tip of the abdomen. In terms of body length and breadth, it was found that females were larger than males. But the average body length and breadth of male and female moths were measured to be 19.34 ± 0.58 mm and 35.62 ± 1.07 mm and 22.26 ± 0.68 mm and 40.00 ± 1.20 mm (Table 1), respectively. The average time period for male and female was recorded as 10.40 ± 0.31 and 12.40 ± 0.37 days, respectively. The adult period of male and female ranged from 10–11 days in male and 12–13 days in female (Table 2).\r\nPre-Oviposition. According to the information in Table 3, the female had a pre-oviposition period of two to four days. The average pre-oviposition period, however, was noted to be 2.60 ± 0.08 days.\r\nOviposition. Table 3 clearly shows that females oviposited for 4–6 days. However, it was noted that the mean oviposition period was 5.00 ± 0.15 days.\r\n Post-Oviposition. After finishing egg laying, female moths were found to live for one to two days. The average post-oviposition period was 1.40 ± 0.04 days (Table 3).\r\nFecundity. Table 3 makes obvious that there were significant variations in the amount of eggs laid by females raised throughout the seasons. The average fecundity was 409.20 ± 12.28 eggs.\r\nThe present result is in agreement with the finding of Dahegaonkar and Mohite (2014). The present finding is almost similar to the finding by Raberi et al. (2017) because the measurement of the immature stages are generally same, the average egg length and breadth was recorded 0.51 ± 0.02 mm. The length and breadth of larval instar, pre-pupa, pupa and adult are generally more or less same. The finding are in accordance with Herald and Tayde (2018) they reported that the fecundity of female moth ranges 405-420 eggs with the average fecundity 412.00 ± 5.24. The finding is according to Sharma et al. (2019) reported that the egg, larval and pupal duration are almost similar. The duration of larval instar and total larval period ranges 20-26 with an average mean of 23.20 ± 1.73.\r\nDifferent stages of pod borer\r\n','Pawan Kumar, D.N. Mishra, D.V. Singh, Sushant Kumar, Ravi Shanker and Aditya Patel (2022). Biology of Pod Borer, Helicoverpa armigera (Hubner) on Chickpea Leaves and pods under Laboratory Conditions. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 14(2a): 603-607.'),(5217,'114','An Exploration on Feminization of Agriculture and their Involvement in Agricultural Workforce: Perceptivity Analysis on unseen Partners','Pragati Shukla, Sudhanand Prasad Lal* and Bhanita Baruah','10 An Exploration on Feminization of Agriculture and their Involvement in Agricultural Workforce Perceptivity Analysis on unseen Partners Sudhanand Prasad Lal.pdf','',1,'The present manuscript investigates on empowerment of farm women and their involvement in agricultural workforce, who has long been a part as unseen partners. Women are the pillar of agrarian sector in India. Feminization is the increase in the farm related activities carried out by women, but is increment in feminization of agriculture reason for women empowerment? Feminization and empowerment are not positively correlated to each other, especially in the case of paid employment. There are lots of schemes for women farmers offered by the Department of Agriculture and Farmers Welfare (DA & FW), Ministry of Agriculture & Farmers Welfare that encourage 30% expenditure on women with the help of State and other implementing agencies. But, alarmingly Gender Pay Gap in terms of gross median wage per hour of Rs. 30.3 (22.35%) was found at pan-India level. In furtherance, Agriculture women’s workers as share of all workers (%) were analyzed and it was found that top 10 states where women involvement in farm related activities was least were Haryana (13.23%, ranked 1st from the bottom), Assam, Tripura, Dadar & Nagar Haveli, J&K, Uttar Pradesh, Gujarat, Tamil Nadu, Karnataka and Bihar (20.82%, ranked 10th from the bottom). Thus, the research suggests that after doing the perceptivity analysis men and women (particularly men) in these 10 lagging states should be sensitized in order to boost the women participation in agricultural workforce. ','Economic survey, Feminization, Empowerment, Perceptivity Analysis, Women Farmers','Migration of male workforce is the main cause of feminization. Though we cannot say it is feminization of agriculture because empowerment and feminization are not positively correlated because women\'s workforce is always underpaid. For the improvement of farm women’s situation on agricultural activities government are now emphasis on gender budgeting and also developing new technologies for women which will be suitable for farm women. In the New India, rural women are key stakeholders in the agricultural sector. In order to improve agriculture productivity and build an empowered nation, rural farm women (unseen partners) should be acknowledged and mainstreamed by ensuring access to resources, education, health facilities, ownership rights, and skill development.','I. INTRODUCTION\r\nResearchers across the globe recognize that agriculture is gendered in developing countries. It is widely recognized that agriculture\'s increasing reliance on women\'s labour might be referred to as \"feminization of agriculture\". However, there are other ways to understand the term, and scholars express concern about its meaning. Feminization of agriculture, in other words, women have capacity to do household chores with farm related activities because of the multitude of activities they undertake in their traditional and gendered roles [9, 34]. Feminism in agriculture can mean many things. The increase in female share can be attributed to either a higher female rate of activity or a decrease in the participation rate of men in agriculture or self-employment or as waged agricultural workers. Farmer suicides, declining land-holdings, food price inflation, relative increase in farm incomes, and inflation of production cost are some of the issues facing Indian farming etc [7, 8, 16, 22, 28]. As a result of these agricultural crises, rural men had to seek other livelihood opportunities, causing them to migrate to urban areas in search of jobs, leaving women to do agricultural work [2, 36]. Consequently, rural women are becoming more involved in agriculture, and this has made us curious about how women are balancing agricultural and household activities and how women enjoy the autonomy in their households and communities is affected by their participation [31]. It has been proven that feminization changes property relations, including the increase in female ownership. Further, it is manifested that feminization offers women the ability to control their own work, and to take up leadership roles, as well as enhancing their awareness of their activities, needs, and aspirations [1, 6, 18]. Bridging the gender gap and empowering women with updated technology and knowledge is a difficult challenge, particularly in light of socioeconomic and climate change conditions [26]. Farm women faced a variety of problems, including distributing fertilizers and having inadequate capital [35]. \r\nIn spite of this, we cannot say that feminization and empowerment are positively correlated to each other, especially in the case of paid employment [14]. Currently, the growing number of women employed has small and menial amounts of pay, which does not entitle them to all rights to empowerment. Despite having land in their names, women might not actually have control over that land, men decide on cropping patterns, the sale of land and the mortgage, or the purchase of equipment and instruments of production. In our society, land inequality is one of the most crucial areas of inequality for rural women due to unequal access to opportunities like credit, skills, and other inputs. This goes a long way towards greater socio-economic inequality for rural women in India. Only a small part of the wage gap can be explained by differences in characteristics and endowments. In general, the geographic variation in wages is essentially unexplained, since it is dominated by the unexplained component. Rural societies in Asia are characterized by unequal distribution of unpaid care (e.g., looking after children, the sick, and the elderly) and reproduction (e.g., cooking, cleaning, fetching water, collecting fuel) work [10, 11, 19] due to patriarchal gender norms. Unpaid work associated with household and care activities are performed by women 2.5 times more frequently than by men. The gender gap is much greater in Asia. Several Asian countries have statistics showing that women spend as much as 10 times as much time on household chores as men do (e.g., Pakistan, India and Combodia). The prime reason why women are less likely to participate in paid work than men is reproductive and caring work. \r\nNeed for Feminization of Agriculture Sector. Farm livelihoods are headed by females in about 20 per cent of cases due to widowhood, desertion or male emigration.\r\n— The majority of women-headed households cannot access extension services, farmers’ assistance institutions, and other production assets like seeds, water, credits, subsidies, etc. female farm workers generally earn less than their male counterparts.\r\nAgencies promoting the Women Farmers. There are lots of schemes for women farmers of the Department of Agriculture and Farmers Welfare (DA & FW), Ministry of Agriculuture & Farmers Welfare [23] that encourages 30% expenditure on women with the help of State and other implementing agencies. These schemes are helpful for promoting awareness on mass media, extension programmes for extension reforms and mechanization. A scheme “Mahila Kisan Sahaktikaran Pariyojana (MKSP)” as a sub scheme of Deen Dayal Antrodaay Yojana- National Rural Livelihood Mission (NRLM) initiated from The Department of Rural Development. Main aim of this scheme is to increase the participation and productivity of farm women by providing additional support over and above the male farmers.\r\nIn India, various research done on farm women found that there is a greater involvement of women in different agricultural operations. They estimated that policy action could increase the involvement of women to as high as 70% in actual farm work. Furthermore, they find that land ownership, age and family income have a major impact on women’s involvement in agriculture [5]. Women’s involvement in agrarian sector is very important. Conventionally, they prepared food for her family. Women bear a heavier workload in food processing, but earn lower returns for their work due to gender discrimination. Women’s multiple roles contribute to a major contribution to the efficient structure in real terms. But it is unfortunate that her position in the male dominated culture is not adequately recognized and her contribution is not properly trained. In dairy farming, the maximum role and participation of rural women is granted. The study showed that women\'s involvement in the treatment of pregnant animals was the highest (91.66 percent). The research also found that 90% of women were actively involved in the process of milking the animals [29]. Shukla et al., (2022) [33] reviewed rural Women and ICT Use in Uganda and pointed out that community participation increased due to the intervention.\r\nThe majority of the rural population relies entirely on farming, which is considered as a career that is strongly male dominated. The \'unseen partners\' in agriculture in Punjab have long been women. Their position was limited to daughters or farmwives. With changing times, however, women are getting out of traditional roles and freely taking ownership of the state\'s farmland. Women are now operating farms in the state that welcomed the Green Revolution during the 1960s, determining crop patterns, finding marketing avenues and setting new and creative strategies in the food technology industry. A List of awards bagged by women is an indicator of the changing agricultural situation in the state. They are no longer only known as farmers’ wives or daughters and they no longer limit themselves to tiny field work. More and more women are boldly operating farm operations in Punjab today to receive rich returns. Women from rural communities are now making their presence known in different jobs and occupations with the expansion of education and knowledge, and consequently contributing to the economic wellbeing of their families. But with respect to the conventional and most popular occupation of rural Punjab citizens, i.e. Agriculture is concerned and continues to dent its position. In general, women from farming families are not viewed as contributing to agriculture. Even if they are employees, they\'re never regarded as earners. In the case of housewives, this applies even more [30].\r\nIncome and household expenses and possessions show elements of income instability and provide an additional indicator of inequality [21]. Women have shown on different occasions that they can step up farm machineries but contribution is less recognized [32]. Despite of greater agricultural economics patterns role of women in farming and raising animals do not differ substantially. Though role of women in farm related activities was high but their involvement in decision making are not substantial [27]. Around 52% workers were involved in agriculture and allied sectors. Agricultural workers were rural groups such as small, marginal farmers, sharecroppers, the unemployed and the landless. They receive very less wages, wage disparities between men and women, a non-standard and nonfunctioning working day and a lack of dignity [13]. The Economic Survey 2017-18 cites a study by the OECD revealed that the share of women work participation had decreased gradually over year, from 36 per cent to 24 per cent in a decade, indicating a decrease of 33.3 percent in Female Labour Force Participation (FLFP) in 10 years [15, 24]. Female workers are also the most insecure of the workforce, as the Survey Report states, as they are employed in the least stable, informal, unskilled occupations, involved in low productivity and low-paying jobs. \r\nAs evident in the Table 1 one can observe that gender gap had been changed from 26.1 per cent to 27.8 per cent from 2001 to 2011. While, gross median wage per hour in INR for ‘Agriculture, forestry and fishing’ occupation for men and women was Rs. 135.6 and Rs. 105.3 respectively thus denoting Gender Pay Gap of Rs. 30.3 (22.35%) [37] where, n=78 denotes the sample size for Gender Pay Gap (GPG) having 62 Males & 16 females (Table 1).\r\nAs evident from Table 2 the involvement of women in various farm-related activities varies from one region to another region. Top 5 states where women involvement in farm related activities was very least were Haryana (13.23 per cent), Assam (14 per cent), Tripura (14.05 per cent), Jammu & Kasmir (14.17 per cent) and Uttar Pradesh (14.70 per cent).\r\nIt was also the part of the investigation that what was Agriculture women’s workers as share of all workers (%) so it was analyzed and it was found that top 10 states where women involvement in farm related activities was least were Haryana (13.23%, ranked 1st from the bottom), Assam, Tripura, Dadar & Nagar Haveli, J&K, Uttar Pradesh, Gujarat, Tamil Nadu, Karnataka and Bihar (20.82%, ranked 10th from the bottom) (Fig. 1). \r\n','-'),(5218,'136','Diversity of Praying Mantis in Gardenland Ecosystems of Coimbatore\r\n','Ragasruthi M., R. Arulprakash*, N. Chitra and K. Sivasubramanian','5 Diversity of Praying Mantis in Gardenland Ecosystems of Coimbatore Ragasruthi M.pdf','',1,'Study on mantid diversity in gardenland crop ecosystems of Coimbatore district, Tamil Nadu revealed the occurrence of 16 species belonging to 13 genera under 7 families. Among the families, Gonypetidae was represented by four species; Eremiaphilidae, Hymenopodidae and Mantidae represented by three species each and Amophoscelidae, Toxoderidae and Empusidae by one species each. Euantissa pulchra was abundant and observed in many crop ecosystems of gardenland followed by Humbertiella similis, Humbertiella nigrospinosa and Elmantis tricomaliae. Coconut ecosystem harboured maximum number of individuals as well as mantid species followed by forage crops. Elmantis tricomaliae was recorded in maximum numbers of locations followed by Humbertiella nigrospinosa. Higher and lower species richness and diversity was observed in Periyanayakkanpalayam and Anaimalai blocks respectively. ','Praying mantis, species richness, diversity, gardenland ecosystem, Coimbatore','This study has provided fundamental information on the diversity of mantid fauna in the gardenland crop ecosystem of Coimbatore district, Tamil Nadu. A total of sixteen species of mantids were recorded in the study. Euantissa pulchra, Humbertiella similis, Humbertiella nigrospinosa and Elmantis tricomaliae were abundant. Mantid species richness and diversity were higher in Periyanayakkanpalayam block yielding more than thirty percent of the total specimen count. Six months study revealed the occurrence of 16 mantid species, intensive study could exhibit the presence of more number of species, even occurrence of new species. Further, this is the first report on the mantid diversity from Coimbatore district of Tamil Nadu. ','INTRODUCTION\r\nPraying mantis are attractive, cryptic and solitary insects occur in tropical and subtropical climatic conditions (Schultz, 2018). Both nymphs and adult are ambush predators in terrestrial ecosystem and play a vital role in natural control of insect pests (Svenson and Whiting 2004). Mantids snatch the prey using its raptorial forelegs, adults devour larger insects like grasshoppers, beetles, crickets while nymphs predate on aphids, leafhoppers, caterpillars and other soft bodied insects (Loxton and Nicholl 1979). They also serve as bio-indicators of environmental loss (Battiston et al., 2020). Globally over 2300 species of mantids under 436 genera and 15 families were reported (Schwarz and Roy 2019). In India, the number of mantid species reported are 184 under 73 genera and 11 families which includes 44 species belonging to 36 genera and 9 families from Tamil Nadu (Ghate et al., 2019). Reports in Tamil Nadu includes those of Chandra and Sharma (2009); Vyjayandi et al. (2010); Srikumar et al. (2018); Meeran et al. (2021).\r\nConsidering their importance as predators in cultivated ecosystem, the present work was conducted to inventorize the diversity of mantids in gardenland crop ecosystems of Coimbatore.\r\nMATERIALS AND METHODS\r\nExploratory surveys were made from November 2021 to April 2022 to study the diversity of praying mantis in garden land ecosystem of Coimbatore district (Table 1). Sampling of mantids was done by visual inspection (Brannoch et al., 2017). The morphological characters were observed using Leica S8APO stereo microscope; photographed with Leica M205C microscope and Nikon D3100 DSLR camera. Species identification was done by following the keys of Mukherjee et al. (1995); Vyjayandi (2007). \r\nRelative abundance of sampled data was computed by the following Yu and Yoo (2015). Biodiversity indices viz., Margalef species richness index (α) (Margalef, 1958), Simpson\'s diversity index (D) (Simpson, 1949), Peilou\'s evenness index (J\') (Pielou, 1966) and Berger-Parker Dominance index (May, 1975) were computed using online freeware biodiversity calculator to reveal the species richness, diversity, evenness and dominance of mantid species in different blocks of Coimbatore district. \r\n \r\n\r\n\r\nRESULTS AND DISCUSSION\r\nA total of 227 mantids were collected during the exploratory survey conducted for a period of six months from 10 blocks of Coimbatore district. Morphological characterization revealed the occurrence of 16 species of mantids belonging to 13 genera under 7 families. Among the families, Gonypetidae was dominant and represented by four species followed by Eremiaphilidae, Hymenopodidae, Mantidae (three species each), Amophoscelidae, Toxoderidae and Empusidae (One species each). Among the species, Euantis sapulchra Fabricius (Family: Hymenopodidae) (21.1 %) was abundant followed by Humbertiella similis Giglio-Tos (19.8 %), Humbertiella nigrospinosa Sjostedt (17.6 %) and Elmantis tricomaliae Saussure (13.2 %) (Family: Gonypetidae). Above results are in accordance with the findings of Hiral et al. (2018); Dwari & Amal (2018); Patel et al. (2018). They reported the dominance of Mantidae and Hymenopodidae in terrestrial ecosystems. Srikumar et al. (2018) reported occurrence of eight species of mantis from the tea plantations of Tamil Nadu. However, in the present study no mantid species was observed in the tea plantations of Anaimalai block of Coimbatore district. This may be because of the use of pesticides or alterations in the climatic conditions (Battiston and Fontana 2010).\r\nThe mantid species, Euantissa pulchra was noticed in crops like paddy, sorghum, pulses, cotton, sugarcane, coconut, banana, citrus, curry leaf and ornamental plants. Whereas, some species were observed only in specific crop ecosystems like Cheddikulama straminea in ornamental plants; Didymocorypha lanceolata, Schizocephala bicornis and Parathespis humbertiana in forage crops; Humbertiella indica in mango and Gongylus gongylodes in medicinal plants. According to Soomro et al. (2013), Humbertiella indica resemble bark and prefers to colonize trees. Similarly, Schizocephala bicornis mimics like stick and prefers grassland ecosystem (Mukherjee et al., 1995). From the above observations it is evident that a particular species inhabits specific microhabitat because of its camouflage ability to protect itself from their enemies. \r\nAmong the garden land crops surveyed, maximum number of species was recorded in coconut (6 species) followed by forage crops (4), sorghum (3), cotton (3), sugarcane (3), mango (3), banana (3), ornamental plants (3) and teak (3). In crops like maize, cocoa, arecanut, papaya, jack, amla, curry leaf, jasmine and medicinal plants occurrence of only one species was observed. Abundance of mantids was higher in coconut ecosystem (57 Nos.) followed by mango, cotton (21 each), ornamentals (17) and teak (16) which reveals that majority of praying mantis prefer unaltered ecosystems viz., trees, ornamental plants and organic field conditions.\r\nElmantis tricomaliae was observed in nine out of 10 locations surveyed followed by Humbertiella nigrospinosa, Humbertiella similis (8 locations) and Euantissa pulchra (5). Maximum number of mantid species was recorded in Perianayakkanpalayam (PPM) (13 species) (Margalef Index (MI) = 2.77) followed by Thondamuthur (TDM) (7 species) (MI = 1.91), Annur (ANR) (MI = 1.2) and Kinathukadavu (KKD) (MI = 1.2) (5 species in each location). In Anaimalai (ANA), only two species of mantids were recorded. Simpson\'s diversity index varies from 0 to 1. Increase in the value of index indicates decrease in diversity and vice-versa of species. Simpson\'s index indicated higher mantid diversity in PPM (0.154) and TDM (0.13) and lower in ANA (0.43). According to Berger-Parker index of dominance, Humbertiella similis was dominant in ANA, KRA, MDU, POL; Humbertiella nigrospinosa dominant in ANR, KKD; Euantissa pulchra in PPM, TDM and Elmantis tricomaliae in PRU. Peilou\'s evenness index showed higher species evenness in Anamalai (0.99) and lower in Madukkaraiblock (0.82).\r\n \r\n','Ragasruthi M., R. Arulprakash, N. Chitra and K. Sivasubramanian (2022). Diversity of Praying Mantis in Gardenland Ecosystems of Coimbatore. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 14(3): 26-31.'),(5219,'136','Evaluation of Biotic Inducers on Sesame Growth and Defense Enzyme Activity','M. Kowsalya, D. Durgadevi, R. Kavitha, L. Karthiba, S. Varanavasiappan, L. Rajendran* and G. Karthikeyan','6 Evaluation of Biotic Inducers on Sesame Growth and Defense Enzyme Activity M. Kowsalya.pdf','',1,'This study aimed to evaluate the efficacy of biotic inducers for assessing growth promotion in sesame, as well as chlorophyll, biochemical changes (phenol) and antioxidant enzyme activity. The experiments were developed with the biotic inducers Salicylic acid (SA) (50ppm, 100ppm, 150ppm), Methyl jasmonate (MeJA) (50ppm, 100ppm, 150ppm) and Beta amino butyric acid (BABA) (50ppm, 100ppm, 150ppm) as well as with the PGPR Bacillus subtilis and Methyl dematon 25EC as insecticidal control. Leaf samples were collected 30th day after the treatments to determine antioxidant assays. Concerning biotic inducers, primed sesame seedling of SA 50ppm showed maximum germination percentage (86%), and SA 150ppm promotes maximum shoot length (87.63cm/plant) and maximum number of capsules (54 capsules /plant) were observed in the primed seedlings of MeJA 150ppm. The defense enzyme activity was found to be higher in SA 50ppm primed seedlings followed by SA 100ppm. These results showed that SA pre-seed treatment and exogenous application at 30th, 45th & 60th DAS resulted in higher biomass production of sesame plants and added significant value by increasing defense enzyme activity (PO, PPO, PAL and SOD).','Sesame, Salicylic acid, Jasmonic acid, Beta amino butyric acid','Based on the above results, it could be concluded that the application of biotic inducers could be a useful technique to enhance the growth promotion of sesame. As a result, the SA 50ppm treatment had a more effect on growth attributes and activating defense enzymes. On the other hand, maximum number of capsules were observed in MeJA 150ppm primed sesame seedlings when compared to other treatments and control. Thus, this study represents the SA 50ppm is comparably best among the treatments to increase plant growth and activation of defense enzymes.','INTRODUCTION\r\nSesame (Sesamum indicum L.) is an ancient oil seed crop which is originated from Africa and grown in many parts of the world. Because of the superior qualities of the seed, oil, and meal, it is referred to as the “Queen of oil seeds”. It also has the highest nutritional energy (6355 kcal/kg) and oil content (46–64%). Despite its economic and nutritional importance and high concentration of lipid-soluble lignans, mainly sesamol, sesamin, and sesamolin, which protect it from oxidative rancidity and lengthens its shelf life, sesame is regarded as a “orphan crop” because science has paid it very little attention (Rizki et al., 2015). Global use of sesame oil is predicted to reach 100 MMT by 2030 (Troncoso-Ponce et al., 2011). However, the exposure of the crops to multiple biotic and abiotic stresses is largely responsible for the current decline in sesame farming. Low yields from a lack of production techniques often place a limit on the amount of sesame that can be grown. \r\nThe plant defense inducers/biotic inducers used for this study are Salicylic acid (SA), Methyl jasmonate (MeJA), Beta amino butyric acid (BABA). Salicylic acid, a naturally occurring phenolic molecule found in many plants, is crucial for the signal transduction pathway and has a role in both local and systemic pathogen resistance (Delaney et al., 1995; Maleck et al., 2000). Nemeth et al. (2002) showed that foliar SA treatments may be responsible for the stimulating effect of plant growth and tomato yield. MeJA are a class of oxylipins that are produced naturally in a variety of higher plants by the lipoxygenase-dependent oxidation of fatty acids (Creelman & Mullet 1997). Under the short soybean season field conditions. Mabood et al. (2006) showed that treatment with MeJA at 50 μM promoted growth, dry matter accumulation, and grain production. According to Jisha et al. (2016), BABA seed-priming promoted seedling growth in rice under both unstressed and stressed conditions. Many reports shows that the plant defense inducers induce resistance against many pathogens/biotic stress by activating some of the defense enzymes like Peroxidase (PO), polyphenol oxidase (PPO), superoxide dismutase (SOD), Phenylalanine ammonia lyase (PAL) etc. But, few reports were attempted in the growth promotion activities using biotic inducers. In this present study, we investigate the growth promotion, yield attributes of sesame plants and the activation of defense enzymes under glasshouse were studied.\r\nMATERIALS AND METHODS \r\nSource of seed material\r\nThe study was carried out using a sesame seed variety (CO 1). The seed was purchased from the Tamil Nadu Agricultural University (TNAU), Department of Oilseeds, Coimbatore. The seeds were cleaned, dried, and stored in airtight polythene bags with a moisture content of 6%.\r\nSource of biotic inducers\r\nBlotter paper method. To study the growth promotion effect of biotic inducers. Sesame seeds (0.5g) were treated with required concentrations of Salicylic acid, Methyl jasmonate, beta amino butyric acid each at 50ppm, 100ppm, 150ppm respectively and the untreated as control. Further the seeds were subjected to hot water treatment for 55°C for 10min. The treated seeds were blot dried and placed in a petriplates. Incubate the plates at 25± 2°C for 3 days to analyze seed germination.\r\nRoll towel method. Seed germination ability biotic inducers (Salicylic acid, Methyl jasmonate, beta amino butyric acid) were tested using roll paper towel method at different ppm concentrations i.e., 50ppm, 100ppm, 150ppm. Seeds were treated with required concentrations of biotic inducers and the seeds are subjected to hot water treatment and then 25 seeds were placed in germination paper and incubated at 25± 2°C for 10 days. Untreated seeds were used as control. At tenth day, germination percentage, root length, and shoot length, vigour index were measured for each treatment. The vigour index (VI) of sesame seedlings was calculated by using the below mentioned formula described by Agrawal and Agrawal (2013).\r\nVI=Germination% × Mean total length of seedling (root length + shoot length)\r\nStudy of efficacy of biotic inducers under glasshouse condition. Seeds are primed with biotic inducers each at different concentrations (50ppm, 100ppm & 150ppm) for 30 mins. Further, primed seeds were subjected to soaking for 15 minutes which allowing the biotic inducers to absorb into the seeds and then the seeds were air dried (Fig. 1). The experiment were conducted at PL-480 glasshouse, TNAU, Coimbatore. Soaked sesame seeds were planted in pots containing red soil, sand and farm yard manure in the ratio of 2:1:1. The soil was autoclaved for two hours to sterilize it prior to seeding. Three uniform and healthy seedlings were kept in each pot after being thinned five days after germination. The Foliar application of SA (ppm of 50,100,150), MeJA (ppm of 50,100,150), BABA (ppm of 50,100,150), and combined (50ppm of SA+ MeJA+BABA) on 30th, 45th & 60th days after planting. Methyl dematon 25 EC and Bacillus subtilis Bbv 57 were used as treatments as part of farmers\' practice. Respective control was also maintained. The experiment was a completely randomized design (CRD) with 13 treatments with 3 replications. The treatment details are as follows (Table 1).\r\nGrowth parameters assessment under glasshouse condition. After spraying under glasshouse conditions, Plant growth parameters including germination percentage, shoot length, number of branches, no. of capsules, girth and width were measured and calculated.\r\nBiochemical analysis\r\nChlorophyll content. Using a chlorophyll concentration meter, the amount of chlorophyll was determined. The fourth leaf from the top of the plant was chosen to measure chlorophyll. The chlorophyll content (mg/m2) of the leaf was measured by simply placing it between the sensors of the chlorophyll concentration meter (SPAD 502 Plus Chlorophyll meter).\r\nTotal phenol content. The Folin Ciocalteu assay, with minor modifications, was used to gauge the amount of phenolic chemicals present in the plant extracts. In a summary, the extract was diluted to a concentration of 1 mg/ml, and aliquots of 100μl of a standard solution of gallic acid (20, 40, 60, 80, and 100 mg/l) were combined with 500μl of Folin Ciocalteu reagent (previously diluted 10-fold with distilled water), 400μl of Na2 CO3 and 400μl of (7 %). The absorbance at 760 nm was measured using a spectrophotometer against a blank sample following 40 min of incubation at room temperature (23 2°C). Using a calibration curve for gallic acid (R2 = 0.998), the total phenolic content was determined. Gallic acid equivalent per gram of dry weight of extract (mg of GAE/g of extract) was used to express the results. Each sample was examined three times (Abdelhakim et al., 2016).\r\n \r\n\r\nAssay for defense enzymes activities\r\nEnzyme extraction. Extract 1g of fresh plant tissue in 3ml of 0.1 M phosphate buffer pH 7.0 by grinding in a pre-cooled pestle and mortar. Centrifuge the homogenate for 15 minutes at 18,000 rpm at 5°C. Within two to four hours, use the supernatant as an enzyme source. Until the assay is completed, keep on ice.\r\nPeroxidase assay (PO). Peroxidase activity was analyzed as described by (Hammerschmidt et al., 1982). The cuvette was filled with 1.5ml of 0.05 M pyrogallol and 0.1ml of enzyme extract. 1% hydrogen peroxide was added to 0.5 ml to start the reaction. After one second of incubation at room temperature, the change in absorbance was measured at 420 nm every 30 seconds for three minutes. Change in absorbance/min/g of fresh tissue was used to express the results. \r\nPolyphenol oxidase (PPO). Polyphenol oxidase activity was analyzed as described by (Mayer et al., 1966). The reaction mixture consisted of 1.5ml of 0.1 M sodium phosphate buffer pH 6.5 with 0.1ml of enzyme extract. To start the reaction, 0.2ml of 0.01 M catechol was added. The results were expressed as change in absorbance /min/g of fresh tissue and the absorbance change was measured at 495 nm. \r\nPhenylalanine ammonia lyase (PAL). The method outlined by (Ngadze et al., 2012) was used to measure phenylalanine ammonia lyase (PAL). 0.25g of the seedlings from the homogenized tissue were added to 5 ml of buffer containing 50 mM of 2-mercaptoethanol and 5% (w/v) polyvinylpyrrolidone. The homogenate was centrifuged at 13000 rpm for 4 minutes at 4°C after being filtered through four layers of cheesecloth. The sample was incubated at 30°C for an hour after 1 ml of the supernatant was added to a solution containing 2 ml of 0.05M borate buffer (pH 8.8) and 1 ml of 0.02M L phenylalanine. 0.2 ml of 6M trichloroacetic acid was added to the test tube to terminate the reaction. For spectrophotometer readings at 290 nm absorbance, this solution was divided into three sections.\r\nSuper oxide dismutase (SOD). SOD activity was measured as its capacity to prevent the photochemical reduction by NBT using the supernatant as an enzyme source (Giannopolitis and Ries 1977). The assay mixture (3 ml) contains 100 ml of the enzyme extract, 50 mM sodium phosphate buffer (pH 7.8), 13 mM methionine, 75 mM NBT, 2 mM riboflavin, 0.1 mM EDTA, and the riboflavin was added at the end. Tubes were shaken and placed under a 40-W fluorescent lamp at 25°C. The reaction was initiated and terminated by turning the light on and off respectively. In parallel with the sample tubes for the blank, the absorbance at 560 nm was measured against identical, non-illuminated samples. The percentage inhibition of NBT photo-reduction was calculated by subtracting each extract from the blank, dividing mathematical differences by the blank, and multiplying the result by 100.The SOD activity was expressed in SOD units mg/tissue (50% NBT inhibition=1unit).\r\nStatistical analysis. The results of germination percentage and plant growth and yield parameters of sesame under glasshouse conditions were subjected to analysis of variance (ANOVA) using the SPSS programme, and the treatment means were compared using the Duncan\'s multiple range test (DMRT).\r\n\r\n\r\nRESULT AND DISCUSSION\r\nGrowth promotion assay. Growth promotion study of blotter paper assay (Fig. 2, Table 2) showed that SA 50ppm enhanced the germination percentage of sesame seedlings up to 85%, followed by SA 100ppm (83%), MeJA 150ppm (83%) and BABA 50ppm (82%) when compared to control (68%) and similar report has been accounted that, SA 50ppm enhanced the vigour index of sesame seedlings up to 1405.05, followed by BABA 50ppm (1291.50), MeJA 150ppm (1272.00) and SA 100ppm (1162.40) when compared to control (771.28) through roll towel method (Fig. 3, Table 3). \r\nThe treatment SA 50ppm also recorded high germination percentage (85%) with increase root length (8.58 cm) and shoot length (7.95 cm) and the shoot length of (6.37 cm), root length of (6.07 cm) with low germination percentage (62%) has been recorded in the control. Although salicylic acid is a growth stimulator for plant germination, the dose that is utilized for priming must be restricted, and salicylic acid at large concentrations not only doesn\'t improve germination conditions, but also has negative impacts on them (Salehi et al., 2015).\r\nEffect of biotic inducers on plant growth under glasshouse conditions. The measured growth attributes are shoot length, no. of branches and grith length (Table 4). In this study, Primed & foliar sprayed SA 150ppm seedlings showed maximum Shoot length (87.63 cm/plant), followed by SA 100ppm (83.93 cm/plant), Bacillus subtilis Bbv57 (73.7cm/plant), Methyl dematon 25 EC (66.3 cm/plant) compared with control (64cm/plant) on 90th day after planting (Fig. 4). Similar results showed that, In C. officinalis, exogenous SA (1 and 2 mM) treatment increased shoot, root, and total plant dry weight while promoted early blooming and a high number of floral buds per plant (Bayat et al., 2012). Other treatments were also had significant effect on shoot length of sesame plants. Same number of branches were observed in all treatments. The maximum grith length was observed in the treatment of SA 100ppm (3.87cm/plant) compared to control (3.14cm/plant).\r\nEffect of biotic inducers on yield attributes. The inducers primed plants enhance the yield parameters of sesame seedlings. The maximum number of capsules were observed in the plants sprayed with MeJA 150ppm (54 capsules /plant) followed by MeJA 50ppm & MeJA 100ppm (44.66 capsules/plant), Bacillus subtilis Bbv57 (30.33 capsules/plant), Methyl dematon 25 EC (27.66capsules/plant) while control has recorded minimum number of capsules (21.33 capsules/plant). Similarly, preharvest concentrations of 0.01 and 0.1 mmol L-1 In the \'Magenta\' and \'Crimson\' table grape varieties, MeJA treatments enhanced berry size and overall yield (García-Pastor et al., 2019). All other treatments were also observed to significantly increasing the number of capsules per plant after 60 days when compared to control.\r\nBiochemical analysis\r\nChlorophyll content. The assessment of chlorophyll content (Fig. 5) in primed sesame seedlings showed that SA 50ppm increased the chlorophyll activity of sesame seedlings up to 99.46, followed by MeJA 150ppm (98.22 mg/m2), MeJA 100ppm (97.22 mg/m2) and MeJA 50ppm (97.02 mg/m2) when compared to control (64.68 mg/m2) and there is an increased chlorophyll content was observed in treatments compared to control. Hence, our study correlates with the reports of SA application consistently improved the chlorophyll content of plant leaves, as reported by Moharekar et al. (2003) in wheat and Yildirim et al. (2008) in cucumber. However, their combination treatment (SA + JA) was unquestionably more effective in reducing the negative effects of salinity on total chlorophylls and carotenoids in lemon balm. Application of SA and JA against salt-stressed plant exhibited dramatically enhanced chlorophyll concentrations (Pazoki, 2015).\r\nTotal phenol content. Phenol content analysis (Fig. 6) in primed seedlings of sesame accounted that SA 50ppm increased the phenolic activity of sesame seedlings up to 1.93, followed by SA 100ppm (1.89 min-1 g-1), SA 150ppm (1.76 min-1 g-1) and BABA 50ppm (1.72 min-1 g-1) compared to control (1.31 min-1 g-1). Similar studies reported that, SA treatment significantly increased the amount of total phenols in broccoli sprouts (Balibrea et al., 2011).\r\nPlant defense enzyme assay. The defence enzyme analysis of peroxidase (PO) showed that SA 100ppm increased the enzyme activity of sesame seedlings up to 2.87 min-1 g-1 at 52 hrs, followed by SA 150ppm (2.84 min-1 g-1), SA 50ppm (2.82 min-1 g-1) and MeJA 100ppm (2.78 min-1 g-1) when compared to control (2.39 min-1 g-1) and there is an decreased enzyme activity was observed after 76hrs in the primed sesame seedlings (Fig. 7). Similar reports were revealed that peroxidase enzyme activity is increased by the treatments with salicylate increased one peroxidase isoform\'s activity in the leaves of Quercus rubra L. seedlings (Steven and Jack 2004).\r\nPolyphenol oxidase (PPO) analysis showed similar results like PO that SA 50ppm increased the enzyme activity of primed sesame seedlings up to 2.9 min-1 g-1 at 52 hrs, followed by SA 100ppm (2.42 min-1 g-1), BABA 50ppm (2.39 min-1 g-1) and BABA 150ppm (2.39 min-1 g-1) when compared to control (2.26 min-1 g-1) and the enzyme activity was decrease after 76hrs of spraying (Fig. 8). According to Szepsi et al. (2005), pre-treating tomato plants with SA prior to salt stress increased antioxidant enzyme activity (PPO), boosting the plants\' capacity to withstand stress was reported similarly. In addition to, this methyl jasmonate-induced expression was also confirmed by Koussevitzky et al. (2004), showing that pre-treatment with methyl jasmonate enhanced tomato PPO import and processing into chloroplasts.\r\nThe results Phenylalanine ammonia lyase (PAL) showed that enzyme activity of primed sesame seedlings was maximum in SA 100ppm (1.88 min-1 g-1) at 52 hrs after spraying (Fig. 9), followed by SA 50ppm (1.83 min-1 g-1), SA 150ppm (1.81 min-1 g-1) and MeJA 150ppm (1.68 min-1 g-1) when compared to control (1.42 min-1 g-1) and our study correlated with the reports of Zeng et al. (2006), treatment with salicylic acid (SA) can increase the activities of PAL which are crucial for the disease resistance of mango fruit.\r\nThe enzyme analysis of super oxide disumutase (SOD) showed that SA 50ppm increased the enzyme activity of primed sesame seedlings up to 1.98 min-1 g-1 at 52 hrs, followed by SA 100ppm (1.85 min-1 g-1), SA 150ppm (1.80 min-1 g-1) and MeJA 50ppm (1.74 min-1 g-1) when compared to control (1.30 min-1 g-1) and reduction in enzyme activity was observed after 76hrs of spraying (Fig. 10). similar reports shows that CAT, GR, and SOD activity are induced by salicylic acid have also been documented by Clark et al. (2002) and Molina et al. (2002). It was found that SA treatment of wheat plants cultivated in ideal temperature conditions increased SOD and APX activity (Agarwal et al., 2005).\r\n','M. Kowsalya, D. Durgadevi, R. Kavitha, L. Karthiba, S. Varanavasiappan, L. Rajendran and G. Karthikeyan (2022). Evaluation of Biotic Inducers on Sesame Growth and Defense Enzyme Activity. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 14(3): 32-41.'),(5220,'136','Effect of Potassium and Foliar Nutrition on Yield and Economics of Kodo Millet under Irrigated condition','Surya K.*, Sanbagavalli S., Somasundaram E., Renukadevi A. and Panneerselvam S.','7 Effect of Potassium and Foliar Nutrition on Yield and Economics of Kodo Millet under Irrigated Condition Surya K.pdf','',1,'The field experiment was conducted during summer 2021-22 at Eastern block, Department of Agronomy, Tamil Nadu Agricultural University, Coimbatore. The field experiment was laid out in Randomized Block Design (RBD) which consists of eight treatments which are replicated thrice to study the effect of nutrient management techniques on yield, yield attributes and economics of kodo millet under irrigated condition. The results showed that maximum number of productive tillers, number of grains per panicle, length of earhead were obtained with the application of 33 kg K ha-1 + foliar application of FeSO4 @1% and ZnSO4 @0.5% compared to all other treatments. The higher grain yield (2028 kg ha-1) and straw yield (6822 kg ha-1), net return (Rs.52559) and B:C ratio (2.43) were recorded with the application of 33 kg K ha-1 + foliar application of FeSO4 @1% and ZnSO4 @0.5% over the other treatments.','Foliar application, Iron, Kodo millet, MN mixture, Potassium, Zinc','From the above research, it could be concluded that recommended dose of fertilizers (RDF) + 33 kg K ha-1 + Foliar spray of ZnSO4 @ 0.5% and FeSO4 @ 1% at active tillering and flower initiation stage was recommended to obtain higher yield in kodo millet under irrigated condition.','INTRODUCTION\r\nKodo millet (Paspalum scrobiculatum L.) is one of the important nutri cereal crop, which is mainly cultivated in India. Millets are mainly cultivated in low fertile soils of India for the purpose of food and fodder. The kodo millet is also known as ditch millet, rice grass, cowgrass, varagu, and Kodra. It is highly drought tolerant crop and suitable for low rainfall regions (Dubey, 1991). Millets are mainly used as an alternative to cereals because they have a good nutritional profile and we can cultivate with low input levels (Shahidi & Chandrasekara, 2013). In our country, the minor millets are cultivated over 4.58 lakh hectares and the production of small millets was 3.70 lakh tonners with the average productivity of 809kg ha-1. The important small millet cultivating states are Madhya Pradesh, Chhattisgarh, Uttarakhand, Karnataka, Maharashtra and Tamilnadu.\r\nThe millet cultivation was gradually decreased due to green revolution; lower the productivity and less preference among the farming community. The consumption pattern of food is continuously changing due to the high cultivation and production of cereals and pulses over the millets. In recent days, the consumer preference is changing towards the millets because of diabetic prevalence in world. The continuous intake of kodo millet prevents from cardiovascular diseases and reducing the blood pressure and high cholesterol (Bunkar et al., 2021). The productivity of millets was very low due to improper nutrient management, cultivation under dry land conditions and less number of improved varieties. So the foliar fertilization of micro nutrients and adequate supply of macro nutrients are the important nutrient management practices followed to encourage the productivity in millets. The potassium application was not recommended for most of the minor millets in India. But the application of enough quantity of potassium recorded positive results in yield and productivity of millets (Sundaresh & Basavaraja 2017). In this regard, the experiment was conducted with different nutrient sources to check the yield and economics of kodo millet under irrigated condition.\r\nMATERIALS AND METHODS\r\nThe field experiment was conducted at Eastern block, Department of Agronomy, Tamil Nadu Agricultural University, Coimbatore during summer2021-22. The experimental farm was located in western agro climatic zone of Tamil Nadu at 11°08N latitude, 76°97E longitude with an altitude of 426 m above MSL. The experiment was laid out in a Randomized Block Design with three replication and eight treatments. The treatment consists of: T1 : RDF + MN Mixture @ 12.5 kg ha-1, T2 : RDF + Foliar spray of ZnSO4 @ 0.5% and FeSO4 @ 1% at AT & FI, T3 : RDF + 22 kg K ha-1 + MN Mixture @ 12.5 kg ha-1, T4 : RDF + 22 kg K ha-1 + Foliar spray of ZnSO4 @ 0.5% and FeSO4 @ 1% at AT & FI, T5 : RDF + 33 kg K ha-1 + MN Mixture @ 12.5 kg ha-1, T6 : RDF + 33 kg K ha-1 + Foliar spray of ZnSO4 @ 0.5% and FeSO4 @ 1% at AT & FI, T7 : RDF (44:22:0 kg NPK ha-1), T8 : Absolute Control. The sowing was taken at the first week of January and it was harvested at third week of May. The sources for N, P and K are urea, single super phosphate (SSP) and muriate of potash (MOP). In fertilizer application 50% of N, 100% P and K were applied as a basal dose with micro nutrient mixture (MN mixture). The micro nutrient mixture for small millets was purchased from Central Control Laboratory, Kudumiyanmalai. The foliar application of FeSO4 @1%, ZnSO4 @0.5% was given at active tillering and flower initiation stage. The observations on yield attributes, grain yield, straw yield and harvest index were recorded and analysed through ANOVA for Randomized Block Design (RBD) as per the procedure given by Gomez and Gomez (1984). The significant difference values were computed for 5% probability of error. When the variance ratio (F value) was found significant, critical difference (CD) values were computed for the comparison.\r\nRESULTS AND DISCUSSION\r\nYield attributes. Data illustrated in Table 1 reveal that the yield contributing characters viz., number of productive tillers, number of grains per panicle, earhead length (cm), and test weight (g) were significantly influenced by the different nutrient management practices. The highest number of productive tillers (13.7), number of grains per panicle (209) and earhead length (14.5) were recorded by the application of RDF + 33 kg K ha-1 + Foliar spray of ZnSO4 @ 0.5% and FeSO4 @ 1% at active tillering and flower initiation stages of kodo millet which is due to enhanced nutrition of crop. The application of zinc and iron plays major role in vigorous growth due to cellular growth, differentiation and metabolic changes in plants and it was attributed with high yield attributes and grain yield in pearl millet (Ram et al., 2021). Sundaresh and Basavaraja (2017) reported similar results with the application of 125% K recorded higher productive tillers (4.47) in finger millet. The other yield attributes like earhead length (14.5 cm), number of grains per panicle (209) and 1000 grains weight (4.58 g) were recorded similar trend with RDF + 33 kg K ha-1 + Foliar spray of ZnSO4 @ 0.5% and FeSO4 @ 1% at AT & FI. Similar results were observed by(Patel et al., 2019) for pearl millet where maximum number of productive tillers and earhead length were recorded with foliar application of water soluble fertilizer (19:19:19) and ZnSO4 @ 0.5%. Similarly Sundaresh and Basavaraja (2017)reported application of potassium enhanced the root growth, translocation of photosynthates and increased photosynthetic activity in finger millet.\r\nYield of kodo millet. The grain and straw yields of kodo millet as influenced by different nutrient management techniques are presented in Table 2. The maximum grain yield (2028 kg ha-1), straw yield (6822 kg ha-1) and harvest index (0.30) were recorded with the application of RDF + 33 kg K ha-1 + Foliar spray of ZnSO4 @ 0.5% and FeSO4 @ 1% at active tillering and flower initiation stage. T6 has recorded significantly higher yields over all other treatments and the lowest yield was recorded in absolute control (1379 kg ha-1) and it was on par with RDF + 33 kg K ha-1 + MN Mixture @ 12.5 kg ha-1. The increased grain and straw yields with RDF + 33 kg K ha-1 + Foliar spray of ZnSO4 @ 0.5% and FeSO4 @ 1% at AT & FI stage was mainly due to the enhanced fertilization which improves vegetative growth and yield attributing characters in kodo millet. \r\nThe results confirm the findings of Srinivasa et al. (2019) has recorded higher grain yield (2266 kg ha-1) and straw yield (3814 kg ha-1) with the application of recommended dose of N, P2O5 + 40 kg K2O. Fulpagare et al. (2018) recorded similar results of higher grain yield (40 q ha-1) and stover yield (72.6 q ha-1) in pearl millet with RDF (60:30:25 NPK kg ha-1 + FYM @ 5t ha-1) + Foliar application of 0.1% chelated iron + 0.1 % chelated zinc.\r\nThe application of potassium improved meristematic activity like cell enlargement elongation and it involves in root development, translocation of photosynthates and grain filling process (Charate et al., 2018). Application of zinc as a foliar spray was involved in IAA synthesis and metabolic process of plants (Ram et al., 2021) and iron promoting the early vigour and growth through enhancing the uptake of nutrients resulting in higher photosynthesis rate, metabolic and physiological process in plants (Babar et al., 2021).\r\nEconomics. Highest gross (Rs. 89313) and net returns (Rs. 52559) and B:C ratio (2.43) were recorded with application of RDF + 33 kg K ha-1 + Foliar spray of ZnSO4 @ 0.5% and FeSO4 @ 1% at active tillering and flower initiation stage. The maximum cost of cultivation (Rs. 37174/ha) was recorded in T5 (RDF + 33 kg K ha-1 + MN Mixture @ 12.5 kg ha-1). This was mainly due to sufficient application of potassium and foliar nutrition of FeSO4 and ZnSO4 at active tillering and flowering initiation. The basal application of potassium produced higher grain and straw yield over other treatments.\r\n','Surya K., Sanbagavalli S., Somasundaram E., Renukadevi A. and Panneerselvam S. (2022). Effect of Potassium and Foliar Nutrition on Yield and Economics of Kodo Millet under Irrigated Condition. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 14(3): 42-46.'),(5221,'136','Biochemical Changes in Coconut Leaves infested by exotic Whitefly Species (Aleyrodidae: Hemiptera)','S. Vishnupriya*, T. Elaiyabharathi, T. Srinivasan, P. Meenakshi and N. Sritharan','8 Biochemical Changes in Coconut Leaves infested by exotic Whitefly Species (Aleyrodidae Hemiptera) S. Vishnupriya.pdf','',1,'Invasive white flies of neotropical origin is an emerging problem in coconut ecosystem. Whitefly infestation impacts the host biochemical components. However, information regarding changes occurring in biochemical constituents after infestation of whiteflies in coconut remain limited. Hence, the present study was focused on analysing the changes in photosynthetic pigments, total soluble sugars, total proteins, total phenols and proline content in healthy and infested leaves of three coconut cultivars viz., COD, WCT and T × D Hybrid. The findings indicated that the photosynthetic pigments including Chla, Chl b and total Chlorophyll were significantly declined in all the cultivars after infestation. The other metabolic compounds analysed were significantly increased in all the tested cultivars. The buildup of various metabolites like protein, phenols, soluble sugars and proline content may play a role in coconut cultivars against the whitefly species infestation. ','Whitefly species, chlorophyll, biochemical components, Coconut','The attack of exotic whiteflies on coconut leaves has been shown to cause imbalances in the biochemical and photosynthetic pigments. The growth of black sooty mould on the upper surface of the coconut leaves driven by whitefly infestation had a negligible direct effect. But it also affects the host leaves metabolism and photosynthetic properties indirectly. The accumulation of several metabolites caused by the infestation implies that the host defence mechanisms were activated. According to this study, sooty mould and whitefly infestations indirectly slow down photosynthesis.','INTRODUCTION \r\nThe Coconut palm, Cocos nucifera L. is a major cash crop cultivated throughout the tropical and subtropical zones of India. Coconut cultivation makes a considerable contribution to the Indian economy with 19% production share (Mahapatro, 2015). However, because of vulnerability of coconut palm to multiple biotic stressors like pests and diseases, the production of coconut is considerably declining. There are almost 900 pest species are known to infest on coconut palms. Of these, exotic whiteflies of neotropical origin have emerged as the most devastating pest in recent years in major coconut growing areas of Tamil Nadu. \r\nThe incidence of exotic rugose spiralling whitefly, Aleurodicus rugioperculatus Martin was reported on coconut palms from Pollachi, Tamil Nadu and Palakkad, Kerala during 2016 (Srinivasan et al., 2016; Sundararaj and Selvaraj, 2017) followed by two species of nesting whitefly, Paraleyrodes bondari and Paraleyrodes minei were reported during 2018 (Chandrika et al., 2019). In South India, it is currently observed that all the three exotic whiteflies are coexist on coconut. These types of whiteflies cause damage to the host plant by draining sap from leaves and by producing sticky, sugary and colourless honeydew, that adheres the lower surface of leaves and facilitates the development of sooty mould fungus. If sooty mould grows on the upper surface of a leaf, might potentially hinder a plant\'s ability to synthesise oxygen through photosynthesis.\r\nThe physiological activities of the plants, particularly the rate of photosynthesis may be harmed as a result of whitefly species infestation (Hossain et al., 2019). It is still unclear that how the whitefly infestation in coconut influences the host physiology and the biochemical components that are involved in it. Hence, the objective of the current investigation was intended to ascertain the biochemical changes triggered by the infestation of exotic whiteflies in coconut leaves. \r\nMATERIALS AND METHODS\r\nPlant samples. The healthy and whitefly infested leaflets of different coconut cultivars viz., Tall (WCT), Dwarf (COD) and Hybrid (T×D) were collected from TNAU Coconut nursery, Coimbatore district of Tamil Nadu. The collected leaflets were brought to the laboratory and using tissue paper the fly’s secretion and dark mycelia present in infested leaves were whipped out and further biochemical analysis was conducted.\r\n\r\n\r\nAnalysis of photosynthetic pigments\r\nChlorophyll. Chlorophyll contents as chlorophyll a, chlorophyll b and total chlorophyll was analysed as per the method followed by Arnon (1949). From each cultivars of coconut, 100 mg fresh leaf samples were macerated with 10 ml of 80% acetone. After maceration, the samples were centrifuged at 5000 rpm for 10 min. The supernatant was collected in test tubes, and using a spectrophotometer the concentrations of chlorophyll a, b, and total chlorophyll were determined by measuring the intensity of the green colour at 645 nm, 663 nm, and 652 nm, respectively.\r\nAnalysis of biochemical parameters\r\nTotal soluble sugars. The method suggested by Hedge et al. (1962) was used to estimate the total soluble sugar in coconut leaves. About 500 mg fresh leaf samples from each cultivars were crushed in 5 - 10 ml of 80% ethanol. The supernatant was collected in test tubes after that the homogenate mixture was centrifuged at 8000 rpm for 10 minutes at 4°C. Aliquots of 0.1 ml of each sample were pipetted out separately in different test tubes and the volume was made upto 1 ml by adding distilled water. The test tubes were heated in a boiling water bath after 4 ml of Anthrone reagent had been added to each tubes using a burette after one minute. After eight minutes, the tubes were removed and cooled under running tap water. A blank test was run without the sample, following the other steps and at 630 nm the absorbance of dark green coloured solution was measured. Glucose solution was used as working standard. The amount of sugar present in the sample was determined with the help of standard graph and expressed as mg of sugars/g fresh wt of sample.\r\nTotal protein. The approach proposed by Lowry et al. (1951) was used to assess the total protein content of the coconut leaves. 500 mg of leaf tissue from each coconut cultivars were taken and homogenized with 5-10 ml of 0.1 M phosphate buffer (pH 7). The supernatant was obtained after centrifuging the homogenate at 10,000 rpm for 10 minutes at 4°C. Each sample was divided into aliquots of 0.2 ml and pipetted out separately into various test tubes. The volume made up to 1 ml using distilled water and the tube with 1 ml of distilled water alone was taken as blank. After that, 5 ml of freshly prepared Alkaline copper solution was added to each tube including blank and allowed to stand for 10 minutes. After 10 minutes, 0.5 ml of FCR was added and left undisturbed at room temperature in the dark for 30 minutes. After 30 minutes, the intensity of blue colour was measured at 660 nm. The standard curve was plotted using different concentration of Bovine serum albumin.\r\nTotal phenols. According to the procedure followed by Malik and Singh (1980), the total phenol content in coconut leaves was estimated. From each cultivars of coconut, 500 mg of leaf tissue was taken and blended with 10 ml of 80% ethanol and centrifuged at 10,000 rpm for 20 min and the supernatant was then collected. The residue was once again re-extracted and the supernatants were pooled and the volume made upto 15 ml. Aliquots of 0.1 ml of each sample were pipetted out separately in different test tubes and the volume was then adjusted to 6 ml using distilled water and the tube containing only 6 ml of distilled water was used as blank. After that, 0.5 ml of Folin Ciocalteau reagent was added to each tube including blank and the tubes were allowed to stand for 3 mins. After 3 minutes, 2 ml of 20% Sodium carbonate solution was added and stirred. The concentration of phenol was measured at 650 nm against blank. Pyrocatechol was used at various concentrations to create a standard curve. The amount of phenols in the leaf samples were calculated from the standard curve and given as mg phenols/g of sample.\r\nProline. The Bates et al. (1973) protocol was followed for the analysis of proline content in leaves of different coconut cultivars. In 10 ml of 3%aqueous sulfosalicylic acid 500 mg of coconut leaf tissue was homogenized. The homogenate was centrifuged at 1500 rpm for 10 min and the supernatant was filtered through Whatmann No. 2 filter paper. Following filtration, 2 ml of the filtrate was placed in each test tube, along with 2 ml of glacial acetic acid and 2 ml of acid ninhydrin. For one hr the test tubes were heated in boiling water bath. After one hour, the tubes were transferred to ice bath. After termination of reaction, 4 ml of toluene was added to each tubes and stirred well for 20-30 sec. Toluene layer was separated and the intensity of red colour was measured at 520 nm. The standard curve was created using various concentration of Proline. \r\nStatistical analysis. For each parameter the data collected from the experiments were analysed separately. To determine the degree of significance between the parameters of control and infested plants, SPSS software (IBM SPSS version 22) was used. The Tukey\'s HSD test was performed to separate the sample means.\r\nRESULTS AND DISCUSSION\r\nThe impact of plant biochemical constituents of different coconut cultivars against invasive whitefly species was studied and presented. All biochemical components (total proteins, total soluble sugars, total phenols and Proline) and photosynthetic pigments (total chlorophyll, chlorophyll a, chlorophyll b) showed a variation in whitefly infested coconut leaves compared to healthy leaves.\r\nPhotosynthetic pigments. The photosynthetic pigments content decreased in the infested leaves as compared to the healthy leaves (Fig. 1). The amount of total chlorophyll decreased most (62.11%) and least (45.91%) in the leaves of the Tall and Dwarf types, respectively. The total chlorophyll content in the whitefly infested leaves of Dwarf cultivar was 0.671 mg/g whereas healthy leaf contained 1.771 mg/g. The Tall, Dwarf and hybrid cultivars with whitefly infestation had lower chlorophyll-a content than healthy leaves by 45.22%, 63.02% and 54.83% respectively. The amount of chlorophyll-b was decreased in the range of 47.29% to 60.26% in whitefly infested leaves compared to healthy leaves. There is no significant difference between COD and Hybrid cultivars. Coconut leaves with spiralling whitefly infestations showed a 25% decline in the total chlorophyll content (Arun et al., 2021). Similarly, Reduced levels of photosynthetic pigments were observed in okra plants infected by whitefly and yellow vein mosaic virus (Amiteye et al., 2021). The amount of light available for the pigments to absorb was decreased by the fungal cover over the leaves. Chlorophyll pigments in the affected plants may have degraded and the biosynthesis of photosynthetic pigments is impacted by the reduction of light(Hudson et al., 1993). The sooty mould causes serious harm to the coconut leaves when it infects for an extended period of time because it prevents photosynthesis, kills the cells, and finally causes the leaves to dry up too soon. \r\nBiochemical parameters\r\nTotal soluble sugars. The soluble sugars in leaves of coconut was increased after infestation by whitefly. The soluble sugar content was increased in whitefly infested leaves by 18.84%, 12.17% and 17.82% in Tall, Dwarf and hybrid cultivars respectively (Fig. 2). Tall cultivar recorded more total sugars of 32.96 mg/g and it is increased to 39.18 mg/g after infestation. There is no significant difference in the per cent increase of sugar content in tall and Hybrid cultivars after infestation. According to studies, the soluble sugars in the spiralling whitefly infested leaves of mulberry V1 variety increased by 3.03 % (Mahadeva, 2016). Manzoor et al. (2022) recorded the increase of sugar contents in Red Palm Weevil infested date palms over healthy leaves. The accumulation of sugars in the infected leaves may have a function in signalling but may not have any impact on the development of osmaticum because the rise in sugar content was not as similar as in the case of abiotic stress. \r\nTotal protein. The overall protein content in all the three coconut cultivars increased after whitefly infestations. It was minimum (34.42%) in Dwarf cultivar and maximum (47. 61%) in the leaves of Tall cultivar (Fig. 2). The total protein content of whitefly infested Tall variety is 66.60 mg/g whereas the healthy leaves had 45.12 mg/g. The protein content of infested Dwarf variety is 49.45 mg/g whereas the control leaves had 36.8 mg/g. From the present study it is evident that, the tall coconut cultivar accumulated more proteins than Dwarf and Hybrid cultivars as a form of defence against the whitefly and sooty mould infection. The results are in accordance with Vasquez et al. (2016) observed that protein content increased in Jamaican Tall, Malayan Yellow Dwarf, and a hybrid JT × MYD coconut cultivars, in response to Raoiella indica feeding. According to earlier reports, the plants can able to grow under various adverse conditions by increased protein levels (Agastian et al., 2000; Ferreira et al., 2007). The increased soluble protein content may contribute to the production of several antioxidant enzymes, which can reduce the oxidative stress brought on by the infestation. \r\nTotal phenols. The total phenols estimated in the leaves of different coconut cultivars showed considerable differences among the cultivars (Fig. 2). In all the cultivars, total phenols content was increased in the infected leaves over that of healthy leaves. In the leaves of west coast tall the increase was highest (53.25%) and in chowg hat orange dwarf it was minimum (37.87%). In the current investigation, the total phenols of healthy plants from all three cultivars varied significantly. However, in whitefly infested leaves total phenols were considerably greater in leaves of WCT but there was no noticeable difference in the total phenols of Dwarf and hybrid cultivars. \r\nPhenolic compounds are considered to have a role in the defense in plants and their greater accumulation following an infestation may be connected to the host\'s defence mechanism (Nicholson et al., 1992). In the present study, all the evaluated cultivars acquired more phenolics in the host, but among the three WCT showed highest accumulation of phenols which confer resistance to the tall varieties. The whitefly that feeds on phloem sap may have caused the coconut trees to produce large amounts of phenolics to stop the further spread of infection. \r\nProline. Whitefly infestation and sooty mould development increased the accumulation of Proline in leaves. In the present study, there was significant difference in the Proline content of healthy and infested plants of all three cultivars (Fig. 3). The increase in proline content was maximum in WCT (64.77%) and minimum in COD (44.46%). Similar increase in the proline content was observed in coconut leaves infested by spiralling whitefly (Arun et al., 2021). Pest infestation and other unfavourable abiotic conditions have been linked to the accumulation of proline, an amino acid that denotes stress in plants (Palliyath and Puthur, 2018). Stress related accumulation of Proline inside the cellfacilitates to maintain the cell\'s ideal water potential and ion homeostasis (Szabados and Savoure 2010).\r\n','S. Vishnupriya, T. Elaiyabharathi, T. Srinivasan, P. Meenakshi and N. Sritharan (2022). Biochemical Changes in Coconut Leaves infested by exotic Whitefly Species (Aleyrodidae: Hemiptera). Biological Forum – An International Journal, 14(3): 47-51.'),(5222,'136','Impact of Biostimulants on Floral Induction and Yield Attributing Traits of Pitaya (Hylocereus undatus L.)','B. Kavinmukil, J. Rajangam*, S. Muthuramalingam and K.M. Sellamuthu','9 Impact of Biostimulants on Floral Induction and Yield Attributing Traits of Pitaya (Hylocereus undatus L.) B. Kavinmukil.pdf','',1,'The focus of this research was to investigate the synergistic effect of biostimulants on floral induction and yield of dragon fruit (Hylocereus undatus L.) and also to tackle the obstacles of insufficient nutrient availability to the plants that results in poor fruit set and decreased crop output. The experimental trial was taken up in a farmer’s orchard in Seelayampatti, Theni district during the year 2021-2022. The cumulative imposition of various biostimulants consisting of Seaweed extract (0.5 per cent + Panchagavya (2 per cent) + CPPU 100 ppm foliar spray + Paclobutrazol 0.75 g active ingredient per meter of canopy diameter soil drenching (T13) significantly influenced flowering (number of days required for floral bud initiation, number of floral buds per pole, number of flowers per pole) and fruit yield contributing features among 14 treatments. As a result, the treatment viz., Seaweed extract (0.5 %) + Panchagavya (2 %) + CPPU 100 ppm foliar spray + Paclobutrazol 0.75 g soil drenching (T13) combination is indeed the best option for improving pitaya’s early floral commencement and yield traits.','Dragon fruit, biostimulants, floral induction, yield, synergistic effect','From the progress of the contemporary research, it can be asserted that the treatment T13 comprising of Seaweed extract 0.5 % + CPPU 100 ppm + Panchagavya 2% foliar application + Paclobutrazol 0.75 g active ingredient per meter of canopy range soil drenching resulted with an outcome of maximum blooming and yield related attributes which was followed by treatment T12 (Seaweed extract 0.5 % + CPPU 100 ppm + Panchagavya 2% foliar application + Humic acid 7.5 per cent soil drenching). Early stimulation of flowering with qualitative fruit production was assisted by the synergic effect of biostimulants which hastened pitaya fruits harvest and put out for economic market utilization, offering significant returns to the farming sector. ','INTRODUCTION\r\nDragon fruit, a tropical climbing epiphytic cactus species that has evolved in Latin America, is expanding as a tremendous commodity even in outlying areas mainly attributed to its medicinal and health virtues globally. Hylocereus bears a striking resemblance to the cactaceae family and is a dicotyledonous floral shrub (Spichiger et al., 2000 and Gunasena et al., 2007). Because of its spectacular nocturnal flowers, dragon fruit is recognized as the “Queen of the Night” and “Noble Woman”. Strawberry Pear, Night Blooming Cereus, Pithaya, and Belle of the Night are just a few of the fruit\'s nicknames. Vietnam, Indonesia, and China produce over 93% of the world\'s dragon fruit. According to recent statistics in India, dragon fruit is cultivated on an area of 3000 hectares with an estimated average output of 13.5 metric tonnes ha-1. The huge rise in production and cropped land is mostly ascribed to states such as Gujarat, Karnataka, and Maharashtra, which together contribute 70% of total output. Pitaya is diversified on an area around 100.40 hectares in Tamil Nadu, with an average output of 12.10 metric tonnes per hectare (Wakchaure et al., 2020).\r\nPitaya fruit has an intense complexion and a delightful, juicy pulp with black palatable seeds lodged in it with excellent nutritional values. Dragon fruit is notable for its high calcium and phosphorus content, as well as its antioxidant composition. The red pulped pitaya is enriched with betalains, which meets the expanding market need for antioxidants and natural food colorants with antiradical qualities (Perween et al., 2018). Dragon fruit offers antioxidants, anti-microbial, anti-diabetics, anti-carcinogenic, and cardiovascular protective properties. \r\nInadequate nutrition availability leads to reduced fruit set and crop output. As an outcome, appropriate dietary supply is essential for efficient dragon fruit production.Plant biostimulants are a novel class of chemicals, mostly exploited in sustainable fruit production, that attempt to accelerate plant development even after a stressful crisis has elapsed and have physiological effects akin to phytohormones (Patrick Du Jardin, 2015). Fruit trees benefit from the utilization of triazole plant hormones, particularly Paclobutrazol, which restricts vegetative growth and promotes blooming. According to Krishna et al. (2017), paclobutrazol has been shown to boost flowering and fruit set in mango cv. “Banganapalli”. By stimulating extensive and early flowering, CPPU (Forchlorfenuron) enhances fruit size and efficacy. Following the application of CPPU, Parson (2019) noted that the floral buds in dragon fruit developed into tiny flowers and started to open up between 4 to 7 days. The impact of forchlorfenuron (CPPU) pre harvest treatment on the red fleshed cv. \"Fu Kwai Hong\" pitaya fruit under storage at 5°C was investigated by Jiang et al. (2020). The bracts were doused with 100 mg L-1 CPPU at blooming time, with water serving as the control. Fruit that had undergone CPPU treatment had considerably thicker bracts, a lower fruit index and a lower cracking ratio in both winter and summer seasons.Several scholars had explored the utilization of biostimulants in order to improve flowering and yield attributes in mango (Gopu et al., 2017); dragon fruit by Chang (2021); pomegranate (Hussein et al., 2021). Nonetheless, there appears to be very little evidence concerning the usage of biostimulants on blooming and yield contributing features of dragon fruit, hence the current study was undertaken to seek a substitute for solely inorganic fertilization.\r\nMATERIALS AND METHODS\r\nThe experimental field study was conducted at the six years old dragon fruit field during the academic year 2021 – 22 which is situated at 9° 52N latitude and 77° 23E longitude with an elevation of 296 m Mean Sea Level of Seelayampatti village, Theni district under the dominion of Department of Fruit Science, Horticultural College and Research Institute, Periyakulam. The trial was set up in a Randomized Block Design (RBD) featuring 14 treatments as well as 3 replications with 15 plants for each treatment.\r\n','B. Kavinmukil, J. Rajangam, S. Muthuramalingam and K.M. Sellamuthu (2022). Impact of Biostimulants on Floral Induction and Yield Attributing Traits of Pitaya (Hylocereus undatus L.). Biological Forum – An International Journal, 14(3): 52-57.'),(5223,'136','Impact of Organic, Inorganic and Biofertilizers on Growth and Yield Attributes of cabbage (Brassica oleracea var. capitata L.) in Bastar, Chhattisgarh','Mukta Rajput*, Beena Singh and Nisha Jangre','10 Impact of Organic, Inorganic and Biofertilizers on Growth and Yield Attributes of cabbage (Brassica oleracea var. capitata L.) in Bastar, Chhattisgarh Mukta Rajput.pdf','',1,'The present experiment was conducted during the Rabi season of the year 2021-22 at the Instructional cum Research Farm at S.G. College of Agriculture and Research Station, Jagdalpur (C.G.) to study the impact of organic, inorganic and biofertilizers on growth and yield attributes of cabbage (Brassica oleracea var. capitata L.). The results revealed that the application of 50% NPK ha-1 + Vermicompost + Azospirillum + Azotobacter + PSB recorded the maximum plant height (27.13 cm), leaf width (18.97 cm), stem diameter (22.87 cm), head diameter (45.17 cm), number of non-wrapper leaves (20.73) and yield ha-1 (384.91 q) in cabbage and also for the maximum nitrogen (299.81 kg ha-1), phosphorus (21.25 kg ha-1) and potassium (367.15 kg ha-1) content in soil after harvest of crop. However, the application of 50% NPK ha-1 + FYM + Azospirillum + Azotobacter + PSB recorded the minimum number of days for head maturity (77.03) and leaf length (21.60 cm).','Cabbage, Vermicompost, Azospirillum, Azotobacter, PSB, FYM','In light of the experimental findings summarized above, it may be concluded that the application of N, P, K and biofertilizers enhanced the growth, yield and quality attributes in cabbage. The comparison of various treatments taken for study revealed that the application of T11 (50% NPK ha-1 + Vermicompost + Azospirillum + Azotobacter+ PSB) showed better response with respect to the plant height, leaf length, leaf width, number of non-wrapper leaves, diameter of cabbage head and yield plot-1 which are closely followed by the treatment T5(50% NPK ha-1 + FYM + Azospirillum + Azotobacter + PSB) and T10 (50% NPK ha-1 + Vermicompost + Azospirillum + PSB). T11 recorded the maximum nitrogen, phosphorus and potassium content in soil after crop harvest. Likewise, the B: C ratio was the highest in the treatment combination T11 (50% NPK ha-1 + Vermicompost + Azospirillum + Azotobacter + PSB).','INTRODUCTION\r\nCabbage (Brassica oleracea var. capitata L.) is an important member of the ‘Cruciferous’ family and belongs to the genus “Brassica” and has chromosome number 2n=2x=18. The word \"crucifer\" comes from the Latin word for \"cross\" and alludes to the fact that this plant family has four petals that are all the same size and form. The prefix \"Brassica\" is also taken from the Latin word meaning \"cabbage.\"\r\nSeveral authors have noted the significance of organic and inorganic fertilizer on the productivity and nutritional values of cabbage. Furthermore, according to Obi and Ofonduro (1997); Moyin-Jesu (2007), issues with ongoing usage of chemical fertilizers include nutritional imbalance, increasing soil acidity, deterioration of the physical qualities of the soil and loss of organic matter. However, organic manure can be applied or used in conjunction with inorganic fertiliser to satisfy the nutrients that plants need. The control of organic and inorganic nutrients has a significant impact on the growth and yield of these vegetable crops. \r\nThe presence of organic matter in a given soil determines its fertility; consequently, organic matter needs to be restored in the soil, either by feeding nutrients from organic sources or through residue management. The response of crops to organic manures is initially slow even though they contain all the necessary plant nutrients. This is because it takes time for them to transform the inaccessible nutrients into available forms following application. However, the application of organic manures has to be encouraged because of the lasting and positive impacts on soil characteristics. Combining the use of organic and inorganic fertilisers can improve yields and protect the environment (Hsieh et al., 1995; Moyin-Jesu, 2007).\r\nMATERIAL AND METHODS\r\nThe present study was laid out in randomized block design with fifteen treatments which were replicated thrice during the Rabi Season of 2021-22 at Instructional cum Research Farm at S.G. College of Agriculture and Research Station, Jagdalpur (C.G.).The region has a sub-tropical monsoon climate with three distinct seasons i.e. summer, monsoon and winter. Rainfall is the major source of ground water recharge in the area and receives maximum (85%) rainfall during the southwest monsoon season. The winter rainfall is meagre (10-15%). \r\nThe land of the experimental site was irrigated prior to sowing for optimum moisture level. Seedlings were transplanted at a spacing of 60 x 45 cm. The recommended package and practice methods were followed during the experiment to maintain a healthy population of crop. The results of various observations recorded during the experiment were statistically analyzed in order to find out the significance of different treatments. The treatments consisted viz., T1-50% NPK ha-1 + FYM, T2- 50% NPK ha-1 + FYM + Azospirillum, T3- 50% NPK ha-1 + FYM + Azotobacter, T4-50% NPK ha-1 + FYM + PSB, T5- 50% NPK ha-1 + FYM + Azospirillum + Azotobacter + PSB, T6- 50% NPK ha-1 + Vermicompost, T7- 50% NPK ha-1 + Vermicompost + Azospirillum, T8-50% NPK ha-1 + Vermicompost +Azotobacter, T9-50% NPK ha-1 + Vermicompost + PSB, T10-50% NPK ha-1 + Vermicompost + Azospirillum + PSB, T11-50% NPK ha-1 + Vermicompost + Azospirillum + Azotobacter+ PSB, T12-Organic manures (FYM + Vermicompost), T13-Biofertilizers (Azospirillum + Azotobacter + PSB), T14- Inorganic fertilizers (recommended dose of NPK @160:75:80 kg ha-1) and T15-Control.\r\nRESULTS\r\nThe perusal of data revealed that the fertilizers (organic and inorganic) along with biofertilizers alone or in combination were found to have significant effect on the growth and yield of cabbage as compared to the control (Table 1).\r\nThe plant height of cabbage was recorded at 30, 45 and 60 days after transplanting and at harvest. The maximum plant height (27.13 cm) of cabbage at harvest was recoded in treatment T11 which was statistically at par with T5 and T10 (26.73 and 26.07 cm respectively). According to Negi et al. (2017); Jaiswal et al. (2020), plants have the ability to photosynthesize more efficiently and produce more auxin when fertility levels are higher. NPK may induce plants to grow more quickly, which could boost the absorption of carbohydrates (Powar and Barkule 2017). \r\nThe leaf width was recorded to be the highest in T11 (18.97 cm) at harvest which was at par with the treatments T5, T10 and T7 (17.67, 17.67 and 17.07 cm respectively). It was observed that the leaf length of cabbage significantly increased by the different doses of N, P, K and biofertilizers and was the maximum in treatment T5 (21.60 cm) which was closely followed by the treatment T11 (21.50 cm) and T10 (20.50 cm). However; the minimum leaf length at all the growth stages was observed in T15 (11.63, 13.70, 16.30 and 18.70 cm respectively). According to Powar and Barkule (2017) higher vegetative growth of plants may be associated to greater growth and elongation of leaves. \r\nThe varieties having the minimum days to head maturity are mostly preferred by the farmers and growers as early yields may provide huge profits. The application of 50% NPK ha-1 + FYM + Azospirillum + Azotobacter + PSB recorded the minimum number of days for head maturity in cabbage (77.03) whereas T9 and T6 took the maximum days for head maturity (84.53 and 83.07 respectively). This may be attributed to the fact that nutrients like nitrogen, phosphate and potassium are more readily available and biofertilizers work by contributing significantly to the production of protein and chlorophyll, which promotes early head development. Negi et al. (2017); Sharma and Arya (2001) observed quite similar results from their study. \r\nThe maximum head diameter in cabbage was recorded in the treatment T11 (45.17 cm) which was at par with the treatment T6, T10 and T12 (43.53, 43.10 and 41.83 cm respectively) and was closely followed by the treatment T13 (40.10 cm). The combination of N, P, K, and biofertilizers provides greater nutrients and improved growth characteristics to the plants which lead to a larger head diameter. According to Singh et al. (2018); Narayan et al. (2018) both 50 percent NPK and biofertilizer application had a substantial impact on cabbage growth and yield contributing features. With regard to the non-wrapper leaves in cabbage T11 (20.73) recorded the maximum value at harvest and was at par with the treatment T10 and T5 (19.83 and 19.57 respectively). The solubilizing effect of organic acids created by the decomposition of organic manures, which improves soil phosphorus availability, may be responsible for the rise in phosphorus concentration. The results are in agreement with the results of Choudhary et al. (2018); Mohapatra et al. (2013); Sharma and Arya (2001) who reported that integrated approach was found to be superior in comparison to any individual treatment.\r\nThe maximum yield plot-1 was recorded in the treatment T11 (27.10 kg) followed by T5 and T10 with (26.53 and 26.17 kg respectively). This could be attributed to higher nitrogen and biofertilizer application yields, as well as higher nitrogen availability from direct addition and soil nutrient solubility. Differently rising nitrogen levels favours large nutrient uptake and efficient nutrient utilisation for increased carbohydrate metabolism and synthesis, greater vegetative growth, and subsequent partitioning and translocation from the leaf (source) to the head (sink). As per the results of Kumar et al. (2017); Narayan et al. (2018) the nutrients also encourages the release of energy-rich organic compounds by biofertilizers, which may have been caused by increased auxin activities, growth and activity of microbial saprophytes and phosphates activity which ultimately influenced the yield and yield attributes. \r\nTable 2 shows the data regarding the effect of various treatments on N, P and K residual content in the soil after crop harvest. The available N, P and K in soil were recorded after crop harvest and results indicate that the available nitrogen was recorded to be the maximum in the treatment T11 (299.81 kg ha-1) which was statistically at par with the treatments T14, T5, and T8 (293.73, 290.46 and 290.04 kg ha-1 respectively). Nitrogen availability and absorption by the plants as a chemical fertilizer is comparatively higher and quick in most of the plants. With respect to the phosphorus content, T11 (21.25 kg ha-1) recorded the maximum value followed by T4, T10 and T13 by (20.36, 19.75 and 19.39 kg ha-1 respectively). According to the solubilizing impact of organic acids may have enhanced soil phosphorus availability, which could account for the rise in phosphorus levels. With regard to potassium, T11 (367.15 kg ha-1) recorded the maximum content in soil which was at par with the treatments T5 and T14 (353.62 and 353.39 kg ha-1 respectively). Jha et al. (2017) reported that the availability of K in plants and soil is caused by the synthesis of organic acids and other chemicals that promote plant growth and mineral uptake. \r\n','Mukta Rajput, Beena Singh and Nisha Jangre (2022). Impact of Organic, Inorganic and Biofertilizers on Growth and Yield Attributes of cabbage (Brassica oleracea var. capitata L.) in Bastar, Chhattisgarh. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 14(3): 58-61.'),(5224,'136','Combining Ability Studies for Growth, Yield and its Related Traits in Okra [Abelmoschus esculentus (L.) Moench]','Brijesh Kumar Maurya, Neetu*, Satya Vart Dwivedi, Devendra Pratap Singh and Shravan Kumar Maurya','11 Combining Ability Studies for Growth, Yield and its Related Traits in Okra [Abelmoschus esculentus (L.) Moench] Brijesh Kumar Maurya.pdf','',1,'An experiment was conducted on okra crop with ten genotypes and their 45 F1’s obtained from diallel excluding reciprocal during 2020. The experiment was sown in randomized block design with three replications at vegetable research farm, BUAT, Banda to estimate the combining ability of various economically importance traits for genetic improvement and their effects in the population. Both general combining ability (GCA) and specific combining ability (SCA) variances were highly significant for most of the characters indicating the importance of both additive and non-additive gene actions. The parents P6, P7 and P2 were identified as good GCA for node at first flower appear, fruit diameter, 50% flowering, seed weight/fruit, 100- seed weight, seed yield and fruit length. The parent P10 was found good GCA for fruit weight and plant height (cm) and the parent P8 was identified as good general combiner for fruit yield/plant and fruit yield q/ha-1. The crosses were identified as good SCA effects P5 x P¬6 for days to first flowering, P1 × P¬10 for node at first flower appear, P¬¬5 × P7 for days to edible fruit maturity showed significant positive effect for more than one traits recommended their value in speed up of breeding programme. The best parents and their matings are used for breeding to improve the yield component.','ANOVA, Combining ability, Diallel, GCA, SCA','It was concluded that highly significant variances were observed for both general and specific combining ability for all the eighteen characters studied. Highly significant GCA and SCA variances revealed that both additive and non additive gene actions were important in the expression of all the traits under studied. Considering higher number of fruits and fruit yield per plant along with earliness parents P8, P2, P6 and P7 was found as good general combiner. The three best F1 hybrids showing significant and desirable SCA effects for fruit yield per plant in order of merit were P¬¬4 v P6, P¬¬2 × P8 and P6 × P7. It was noted that the best F1 hybrids which expressed higher per se performance for a particular trait also exhibited desirable significant SCA effect for that trait but this trend was not always true i.e. the best specific cross might or might not have the parent with high per se performance. It is suggested that breeding techniques that can accumulate detectable genetic effects while maintaining substantial heterozygosity to take advantage of dominant gene effects have proven to be most beneficial for improving the population studied. ','INTRODUCTION\r\nOkra (Abelmoschus esculentus L. (Moench) is an economically important vegetable crop grown in the tropical and sub-tropical parts of the world. which have chromosome number 2n=2x=130 (Patil et al., 2015). It is native of Tropical Africa (Yawalkar, 1980 and Benchasri, 2012). The immature green seed pods are the edible part of this plant which are consumed as cooked vegetable, mostly fresh but sometimes sun-dried (Liu et al., 2021). Okra is gaining importance with regard to its nutritional, medicinal and industrial value. Apart from nutritional and health importance, okra plays an important role in income generation and subsistence among rural farmers in developing countries like India. Okra is commercially grown in the Indian states of Andhra Pradesh, Gujarat, Maharashtra, Karnataka and Tamil Nadu (Raikar et al., 2020). It represents 13% of the total fresh vegetable exports and having potential to earn foreign currency. Commercial exploitation of hybrid vigour in okra is simple due to its ease emasculation; high fruit set rate and huge amount of seeds per fruit (Varmu et al., 2011). Being an often cross-pollinated crop, out crossing to an extent of 5 to 9% by insects is reported which renders considerable genetic diversity (Duggi et al., 2013). Hence, the first step in okra improvement should involved evaluation of the germplasm for genetic variability. As a second step, it is required to generate crosses employing a suitable mating design to know the extent of heterosis for various economic traits and inheritance pattern of desired characters, which in turn, would help in deciding the breeding strategies as well as identifying potential parents and crosses for further use in breeding programme (Singh and Singh 2012). Combining ability helps to assess the genetic value, selection of suitable parents for hybridization and identification of good hybrid cross combinations that can be utilized for commercial exploitation of heterosis (Das et al., 2020).\r\nThe prominent position of okra among Indian vegetables can be due to its easy cultivation, dependable and regular yield, wider adaptability and year round cultivation. In spite of its importance, no major breakthrough has been made in this crop and the farmers are still growing their own local varieties or open pollinated varieties. Hence, there is a need for restructuring this vegetable crop for increasing the productivity. Therefore, the present investigation was undertaken to obtain the information on combining ability and mode of gene action in okra genotypes for yield and quality parameters. \r\nMATERIAL AND METHODS \r\nThe present investigation on combining ability studies in okra was carried out at the Vegetable Research Farm, Department of Vegetable Science, Banda University of Agriculture and Technology, Banda, Uttar Pradesh during rabi season by providing good agronomic practices to keep the crop in good condition. The material for experimentation comprised of 10 distinct genotypes [Arka Anamika (P1), Kashi Pragati (P2), Hisar Naveen (P3), Hisar Unnat (P4), Punjab-8 (P5), Pusa A-4 (P6), Varsha Uphar (P7), Akola Bahar (P8), Phule Vimukta (P9) and Punjab Suhavani (P10)] collected from different research Institutes & SAUs and maintained in department of vegetable science. These 10 lines were crossed in all the possible combination in diallel technique, excluding reciprocals crosses to derive all possible 45 F1 hybrids and seeds were collected under study purpose. The parents were also maintained through selfing. All the 45 F1s seeds along with 10 parents were sown in randomized block design (RBD) with three replications during kharif season. Each treatment or a genotype in each replication was represented by one row each accommodating 10 plants at a row to row spacing of 60cm and 30cm from plant to plant. The observations were recorded on randomly selected five plants in each replication of F1s and their parents. The selected plants were tagged and properly labeled before flowering for taking observations, viz. Days to first flowering, Days to 50% flowering, Plant height (cm), Number of branches per plant, Node at which first flower Appear, Internodal length (cm), Number of nodes per plant, Number of fruits per plant, Fruit yield per plant (g), Fruit yield (q ha-1), Fruit length (cm), Fruit diameter (cm), Fruit weight (g), Days to edible fruit maturity, Number of seeds per fruit, Seed weight per fruit, 100-Seed weight and Seed yield per plant. The combining ability analysis was carried out by the procedure suggested by Griffing (1956a&b) and Robinson (1996) was taken up for the material under study.\r\nRESULTS AND DISCUSSIONS\r\nGeneral Combining Ability (GCA). During experimentation, variance due to general combining ability (GCA) and specific combining ability (SCA) are presented in (Table 1). It is evident from the table that mean squares due to GCA were highly significant for all the characters except days to edible fruit maturity and fruit diameter (cm). Were SCA had also highly significant for all the eighteen characters studied. The estimation of GCA effects of the parents for all the eighteen characters are presented in (Table 1). \r\nFor days to first flowering, number of seed per fruit and other maturity traits general combiners with negative values are desirable. The general combiners with negative value are usually desirable for the character days taken to first flowering. Out of ten parental lines, one parent namely P7 (-0.817) showed significant and negative GCA estimates and they were classified as good general combiners (Table 2). Out of ten parental lines, one lines viz., P6 (-0.828) showed significant and negative GCA effect in desirable direction for days to 50 % flowering (Table 2). During study, node at which first flower appears, general combiners with negative values are usually desirable. Out of ten parental lines two expressed the negative significant GCA effects. The most desirable parental lines was P2 (-0.177) and P10 (-0.153) both are valuable because this showed highly negative significant GCA effects (Table 2). Earliness for days to edible fruit maturity is most important character in okra. None of the parents showed significant GCA effects in desirable direction (Table 2). Two parental lines viz., P7 (1.230) and P5 (0.733) showed positive significant GCA effect for number of node per plant. However, 2 lines were poor general combiners in which P1 exhibited significant GCA effects with a higher value (-0.932) followed by P4 (-0.677) (Table 2).\r\nFor Internodal length, estimates of negative GCA effects values are considered desirable. Two potential lines P2 (-0.524) and P1 (-0.434) expressed this trends and were classified as the good general combiners (Table 2). Three parental line viz., P3 (0.220) followed by P10 (0.205) and P1 (0.092) were best general combiner as they showed significant GCA effect in desirable direction for this trait. On the other hand, parent P7 (-0.289), P2 (-0.181) and P5 (-0.107) exhibited significant and negative GCA effect was considered as poor general combiner for this trait. Rest of the parents were considered as average as average combiners due to non-significant GCA effects. In order to merit, five parents lines were found to be positively significant GCA effects, in which P10 (5.183) followed by P9 (5.148) and P5 (4.534) were identified as good combiners for plant height which is desirable in okra. On the other hand, four parents were found to be negatively significant GCA effects, in which P2 (-7.392) followed by P8 (-4.859) and P1 (-4.738) were proved to be poor general combiners since they exhibited significant and negative GCA effects. The rests of the parents were average combiner for this trait as they showed non-significant GCA effects. A critical examination of (Table 2) reveled that only two parents viz., P7 (1.614) and P8 (0.881) exhibited significant and positive GCA effect and hence, it was depicted as good general combiner for this trait. On the other hand, two parent viz., P1 (-1.593) and P4 (-1.053) exhibited significant and negative GCA effects and were considered as poor general combiner due to non-significant GCA effects. Significant and positive GCA effects for 10-fruits weight were observed in three parents viz., P10 (0.900) followed by P8 (0.704) and P2 (0.630). Thus, they were registered as good general combiners for fruit weight (gm). On other hand, three parents viz., P1 (-1.752) followed by P3 (-0.937) and P9¬ (-0.643) exhibited significant and negative GCA effects, hence they were proved as poor general combiner for this trait. The rest of the parents were average combiner for this trait as they showed non-significant GCA effects. Estimates of GCA effects revealed that one parent viz., P7 (0.559) was considered as good combiner for fruit length as it had exerted significant and positive GCA effect, on other hand, one parents viz., P2 (-0.353) exhibited significant and negative GCA effects. While rest of the parents were average combiner for this trait as they showed non-significant GCA effects. A critical examination of Table 3 revealed that only one parent i.e. P2 (0.062) showed good combiners as they had significant effect in desirable direction for fruit diameter. On the other hand no any parents exhibited significant and negative GCA effects and were considered as poor general combiners for this trait. Rests of the parents were considered as negative combiners due to non- significant GCA effects. In order of merit, P4 (-1.803) followed by P1 (-1.701), P3 (-1.322) and P9 (-1.106) exhibited significant and negative GCA effects which is desirable in okra hence, expressed as good combiners for number of seeds per fruit. On the other hand, parent P10 (2.259) and P5 (1.162) was proved to be poor general combiner since it exhibited significant and positive GCA effect for this trait, while rest of the parents were average combiner for this traits as they showed non-significant GCA effects. In seed weight per fruit, two parental lines viz., P6 (0.340) and P1¬ (0.251) shows valuable positive significant GCA effects and found to be good combiners for this trait. On the other hand, three parents viz., P4 (-0.253), P7 (-0.179) and P8 (-0.139) exhibited significant and negative GCA effects and were considered as poor general combiners for this trait. The rests of the parents were considered as average combiners due to non-significant GCA effects. In 100-seed weight only three parents viz., P6 (0.459) followed by P3 (0.194) and P7 (0.163) were considered as good combiners for 100-Seed weight as they had exerted significant positive GCA effects. On other hand, parent P2 (-0.289), P4 (-0.226) and P1 (-0.166) exhibited significant and negative GCA effects suggested that poor general combiners for this trait (Table 3). The rests of the parents were considered as average combiners due to non-significant GCA effects. In seed yield per plant, only one parent line i.e. P¬6 (4.056) were found for positive significant GCA effects, this is desirable for okra. On the other hand, two parents viz., P¬8 (-3.862) and P10 (-3.291) exhibited significant and negative GCA effects and were poor general combiner for this trait. The rests of the parents were considered as average combiners due to non- significant GCA effects. For fruit yield per plant two parents P¬8 (30.719) and P¬3 (29.156) showed significant positive GCA effects whereas, five parental lines were poor general combiner, with negative GCA effects (Table 3).\r\nParents P8 the best general combiner for fruit yield per plant was also found as the best general combiner for fruit yield per plant. Estimates of GCA effects reveled that two parents viz., P8 (17.066) and P3 (16.198) were considered as good general combiners for fruit yield q/ha-1 as they had exerted significant and positive GCA effects which is considered as desirable traits in okra. On the other hand, parent P10 (-10.554) followed by P5 (-9.737) and P4 (-5.921) exhibited significant and negative GCA effect suggested that poor general combiner for this trait. Remaining parents were considered as average combiners due to non-significant GCA effects. Similar result were found by Similar correspondence between these parameters was observed by Gill and Kumar (1988) in water melon, Musmade and Kale (1986) in cucumber, Jindal and ghai (2005); Rai et al. (2011); Singh et al. (2012); Vachhani et al. (2012); Nimbalkar (2017); Ivin et al. (2022) in okra.\r\nSpecific Combining Ability (SCA). The estimates of SCA effects (Sij) of 45 F1s crosses and their standard errors of different comparisons were studied for eighteen metric traits and the results have been presented in (Table 4). The SCA effects in negative directions was considered desirable for maturity traits viz., days to first flowering, days to 50 per cent flowering and days to edible fruit maturity. Out of 45 F¬1 hybrids, three showed significant and negative SCA effects in desirable direction for days to first flowering. The highest, significant and negative SCA effect was observed in cross P5 × P¬6 (-4.328) followed by P2 × P¬10 (-3.578) and P4 × P7 (-3.578). Five crosses had found significant and positive SCA effects for late flowering (Table 4). Estimates of specific combining ability for earliness in respect of days to 50 % flowering were significantly negative and desirable in five hybrids. The crosses P5 × P¬7 (-3.854) followed by P2 × P¬10 (-3.659) and P3 × P5 (-2.826) were found as the best three specific combiners (Table 4). Eight crosses had found significant and positive SCA effects for late flowering. The significant negative SCA effects for earliness for node at which first flower appear were observed in 9 hybrids. The best three promising crosses in order of performance for earliness were P1 × P¬10 (-1.014) exhibits maximum negative SCA effects followed by P1 × P¬5 (-0.983) and P1 × P4 (-0.911) were identified as good specific combiner for this trait (Table 4). On the other hand, 13 crosses showed positively significant which is not desirable for this trait (Table 4). The magnitude of SCA effects in hybrids varied from -4.337 (P¬¬5 × P7) to 9.671 (P7 × P9). Out of 45 crosses, one cross combinations showed significant and negative SCA effects for days to edible fruit maturity. The highest SCA effect was exhibited by the cross P¬¬5 × P7 (-4.337) (Table 4). The spectrum of variation for SCA effects in hybrids was from -5.786 (P¬¬5 × P6) to 3.461 (P3 × P10) (Table 4).\r\nOut of 45 crosses, eight are showed significant and positive SCA effects for number of node per plant. The highest, significant and positive SCA effect was observed in cross P3 × P10 (3.461) followed by P6 × P8 (3.302) and P2 × P6 (3.288) which is desirable good specific combiners for this trait. Out of 45 crosses, eight crosses exhibits significant and negative SCA effects for less Internodal length which is desirable trait. The highest, significant and negative SCA effect was observed in cross P2 × P5 (-1.575) followed by P1 × P9 (-1.224) and P8 × P9 (-1.001) (Table 4). Ten crosses had found significant and positive SCA effects for more Internodal length. The significant variation of specific combining ability effects in hybrids ranged from -0.663 (P¬¬1 × P4) to 0.702 (P1 × P8) (Table 4). Out of 45 crosses, thirteen hybrids showed significant and positive SCA effects, therefore, they were considered as good specific combinations for more number of branches per plant. While twelve crosses noted as poor specific cross combinations as they noted significant and negative SCA effects. The magnitude of SCA effects in hybrids varied from -30.123 (P¬¬3 × P4) to 32.350 (P2 × P8) (Table 4). Out of 45 crosses, fourteen hybrids exhibited significant and positive SCA effects for this trait. The crosses P¬¬2 × P8 (32.350) rank first trailed by P¬¬1 × P6 (21.947) and P3 × P5 (20.551) (Table 4) for this trait. Among the 45 crosses producing significant SCA effects, twelve crosses were in desired direction.\r\nThe cross P¬¬6 × P8 (5.794) ranked first followed by P¬¬5 × P6 (5.417) and P2 x P5 (5.227) (Table 4). While nine hybrids depicted as the poor specific cross combinations for this trait. The magnitude of SCA effects for fruit weight in hybrids varied from -6.327 (P¬¬5 × P6) to 8.918 (P5 × P7) (Table 5). Out of 45 crosses, Seventeen hybrids exhibited significant and desirable (positive) SCA effects for this trait. The cross P¬¬5 × P7 (8.918) rank first trailed by P¬¬2 × P9 (7.077) and P2 x P6 (6.638) (Table 5) for this trait. The spectrum of variation for SCA effects in hybrids was ranged from -1.031 (P¬¬2 × P5) to 1.817 (P4 × P6) (Table 5). Out of 45 crosses, three crosses showed significant and positive SCA effects for fruit length. The maximum fruit length was observed in cross P¬¬4 × P6 (1.817) followed by P¬¬3 × P7 (1.153) and P2 × P10 (1.097) (Table 5) which is positively significant and considered for good specific combiners for fruit length. The ranged of SCA effects in hybrids varied from -0.299 (P¬¬7 × P9) to 0.274 (P3 × P10) (Table 5). Out of 45 crosses, Four hybrids cross combinations showed significant and positive SCA effects for high fruit diameter with highest SCA effects in P¬¬3 × P10 (0.274) followed by P¬¬2 × P5 (0.201) and P1 × P3 (0.186) (Table 4.7). On the other hand, P¬¬7 × P9 (-0.299), P8 × P10 (-0.229), P¬¬3 × P4 (-0.219) and P5 × P7 (-0.216) occupied the poor specific cross combinations for fruit diameter. In case of crosses only seven were showed positive significant SCA effects. The most promising three crosses were P¬¬3 × P9 (8.105) followed by P¬¬2 × P9 (7.673) and P6 × P9 (6.048) (Table 5) displayed highest positive significant SCA effects. Whereas P¬¬5 × P9 (-10.479) followed by P¬¬1 × P9 (-10.219) and P2 × P3 (-9.788) (Table 5) expressed high negative significant SCA effects. The combined result showed that P¬¬3 × P9 (8.105) and P¬¬2 × P9 (7.673) were the good specific combinations. Among 45 crosses, only eight were expressed valuable positive significant SCA effects. The most promising three cross were P¬¬2 × P7 (1.283), P¬¬6 × P10 (0.827) and P7 × P8 (0.703) (Table 5) showed positively significant effects. Whereas P¬¬2 × P4 (-1.019) showed highest negative significant SCA effect followed by P¬¬2 × P10 (-0.991) and P4 × P8 (-0.995) (Table 5). While the cross considering the Estimates of SCA effects and per se performance of the crosses P¬¬2 x P7 Was good cross combinations for this trait. In respect of crosses seventeen were expressed positive significant SCA effects. The most promising three crosses were P¬¬2 × P7 (1.801) showed positive significant SCA effects followed by P¬¬3 × P6 (1.249) and P¬¬4 × P10 (1.095) (Table 5). While the crosses P¬¬2 × P4 (-1.497), P¬¬2 × P10 (-1.482) and P¬¬5 × P5 (-1.317) showed negative significant SCA effects. Considering the estimates of SCA effects and per se performance of the crosses P¬¬2 × P7 and P¬¬3 × P6 were good cross combination for this trait. Among 45 cross combinations, the SCA effects revealed that only five crosses displayed positive significant effects. Best three cross combinations, P¬¬4 x P10 (11.778), P¬¬4 × P7 (10.625) and P¬¬4 × P5 (10.084) (Table 5) were most promising specific combiners. Highest negative SCA estimates were observed in cross P¬¬2 × P4 (-24.964), P¬¬9 × P10 (-16.634) and P¬¬7 × P9 (-14.687) (Table 5). Considering the estimates of SCA effects and per se Performance of the crosses, P¬¬4 × P10 was best combiners for this trait. Twelve cross combinations showed significant and positive SCA effect for higher fruit yield per plant with highest SCA effects in P¬¬4 × P6 (56.651) followed by P¬¬2 ×P8 (56.530), P6 × P7 (55.878) and P¬¬5 × P8 (53.988) (Table 5). While seventeen cross combinations showed significant and negative SCA effects for fruit yield per plant. Out of 45 F1 hybrids, twelve displayed positive significant SCA effects. Crosses P¬¬4 × P6 (31.473) followed by P¬¬2 × P8 (31.405), P6 × P7 (31.043) and P¬¬5 × P8 (29.993) were the most promising combinations for fruit yield per plant (Table 5). On the other hand, seventeen crosses showed negative estimates of SCA effect with significant values. The seventeen highest negative estimates of SCA effects was observed in cross P3 × P8 (-42.177). Similar results have also been reported by Shwetha et al. (2018); Tiwari et al. (2016); Nagesh et al. (2014).','Brijesh Kumar Maurya, Neetu, Satya Vart Dwivedi, Devendra Pratap Singh and Shravan Kumar Maurya (2022). Combining Ability Studies for Growth, Yield and its Related Traits in Okra [Abelmoschus esculentus (L.) Moench]. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 14(3): 62-69.'),(5225,'136','Amminocyclopropane-1-carboxylate (ACC) Utilization and Indole-3-acetic Acid (IAA) Production by Sesbania rostrata rhizobial isolates','Kuldeep Singh*, Rajesh Gera, Nidhi Sharma, Jagdish Parshad and Sushil Kumar Singh','12 Amminocyclopropane-1-carboxylate (ACC) Utilization and Indole-3-acetic Acid (IAA) Production by Sesbania rostrata rhizobial isolates Kuldeep Singh.pdf','',1,'In present ere agriculture is facing challenges due to low nitrogen availability therefore high amount of chemical fertilizers are used. Symbiotic association occurs by Rhizobium that causes the growth of shoots and roots nodules in legumes and nitrogen fixation for improving fertility of soil. Therefore, selection of the appropriate strain is significant for enhancing biological nitrogen fixation. The current study was intended to isolate and characterize rhizobial strain from root and shoot nodule of Sesbania rostrata plants on selective yeast extract mannitol agar (YEMA) medium. On the basis of morphological properties, 26 isolates were recognized as rhizobia. These possessed a smooth texture and convex slope and were spherical, milky white, mucoid in shape. All microbial isolates were identified as Gram-negative, rod-shaped, and motile upon microscopic analysis. Biochemical depiction of rhizobia showed that all rhizobia were able to produce IAA however, 65% of rhizobial isolates could utilize ACC. These rhizobia have plant growth promoting traits so used as a biofertilizer and use of chemical fertilizer is reduced.','ACC, Symbiotic, Rhizobia, Sesbania rostrata, Indole-3-acetic acid (IAA)','All Sesbania rostrata rhizobial isolates were able to produce IAA and however, 65% of rhizobial isolates could utilize ACC (1-aminocyclopropane-1-carboxylate). So, these isolates have plant growth promoting traits which is useful for present as well as upcoming crops for improving nitrogen.','INTRODUCTION \r\nFor sustainable agricultural practices symbiotic associations between legume and rhizobia are very essential. In this view, the phytohormone ethylene plays a vital function in inhibiting the nodulation process during nodule formation (Schaller, 2012). In addition it also influences several other plant developmental cues, together with a variety of stress responses that prevent plant growth. Gaseous plant hormone ethylene formed endogenously by every bigger plants and is known being among the best crucial molecules for regulating plant development (Bleecker and Kende, 2000 and Lin et al., 2009). Ethylene is produced from the ACC present in the root exudates by the enzyme ACC oxidase. It is key phytohormone, however more formed ethylene in stressful situation can effect in the inhibition of plant growth or death, particularly for seedlings. When ethylene is produced in the high concentration produces defoliation and other cellular activities, resulting in a decline in crop performance (Bhattacharyya and Jha, 2012). It is involved in a number of phases of symbiosis too, together with the early reaction to nodule development, bacterial nod factors, abscission and senescence (Csukasi et al., 2009 and Patrick et al., 2009). Though, a number of bacteria can reduce harmful effect of ethylene levels through act of the enzyme ACC deaminase, which degrades ACC to ammonia and α-ketobutyrate, both of which the microbe or the plant can metabolize (Glick, 2014). ACC deaminase not acting an essential function in the nodulation procedure however can adapt the persistence of nodules (Nascimento et al., 2016). An inducible enzyme, ACC deaminase\'s synthesis, is stimulated by the presence of its substrate (Singh et al., 2015). Adding of ethylene precursor ACC to plant roots barren nodulation in Medicago truncatula (Penmesta and Cook, 1997), whilst the adding of the ethylene inhibitor AVG (L-α-aminoethoxyvinyl-glycine) improved the quantity of nodules in pea (Nukui et al., 2000). Bacteria exhibiting 1-aminocyclopropane-1-carboxylic acid (ACC) deaminase activity, which inhibits the biosynthesis of ethylene in higher plants, promote plant growth through the degradation of ethylene precursors, such as ACC (Sarapat et al., 2020). The ACC deaminase bacteria offer drought tolerance by adaptable plant ethylene levels. In addition to plant adaption mechanisms, plant growth-promoting rhizobacteria (PGPR) can enhance salt tolerance in plants via ion homeostasis, production of antioxidants, ACC deaminase, phytohormones, extracellular polymeric substance (EPS), volatile organic compounds, accumulation of osmolytes, activation of plant antioxidative enzymes, and increase of nutrients uptake (Riseh et al., 2021). \r\nGrowth phytohormone indole-3-acetic acid (IAA) being considered the most significant agent of auxin class (Ludwig-Muller et al., 1993 and Serban et al., 2017). Tryptophan and indole derivatives are familiar precursors for usual biosynthetic pathways. The rhizosphere region isolated microorganisms of different crops have capability to generate IAA as minor metabolites because of plentiful supply of substrates. As a regulator of many biochemical functions, such as cell division, elongation, selectivity and tropic responses, fruit maturity, and senescence, IAA plays a critical role in the development and proliferation of plants. They can also prevent abscission of leaves, flowers and fruits. IAA synthesis by microorganism has been recognized from prolonged period. IAA produced by bacteria contributes to circumvent the host defense by derepressing the IAA signaling in the plant. IAA in addition has a straight consequence on bacterial survival and its resistance to plant defense (Spaepen et al., 2007). Eighty percent of the microbes from various crops\' rhizosphere can synthesize and produce auxins as secondary metabolites (Patten and Glick, 1996). IAA formation via indole-3-acetic aldehyde and indole-3-pyruvic acid is found in a majority of bacteria like saprophytic species of the genera “Pseudomonas and Agrobacterium; Erwinia herbicola; certain representatives of Rhizobium, Bradyrhizobium, Klebsiella, Azospirillum and Enterobacter” (Ahemad and Khan 2012). The production of indole-3-acetic acid (IAA) is an essential tool for rhizobacteria to stimulate and facilitate plant growth (Lebrazi et al., 2020)\r\nMATERIALS AND METHODS\r\nIsolation of native rhizobia. Big sized, healthy, intact and pink nodules were chosen for separation of bacteria from Sesbania rostrata root as well as stem. An aseptic rod was used for crushing every apparent outside nodule in a Petri dish. YEMA medium enriched with 0.0025 percent (w/v) Congo red as an indicator was spread on Petri plates with a single loopful of the nodule suspension and cultured at 28±2oC for four days. At the end of incubation stage, the rhizobial colonies showed slight or no Congo red absorption appears white and mucoid. They were chosen out by a sterilized inoculating loop and were supplementary purified via streak plate method. The most important isolates were maintained on YEMA slants at 4°C in refrigerator for additional description (Vincent, 1970).\r\nAmminocyclopropane-1-carboxylate (ACC) utilization. Some of the bacteria can utilize the substrate 1-amminocyclopropane-1-carboxylate as sole nitrogen resource by using enzyme ACC deaminase. The ACC utilization of different bacteria can be checked on minimal medium plates supplemented with 3mM ACC (Dworkin and Foster 1958). Actively growing log phase cells of different rhizobia were spotted on such medium plates. The expansion of different rhizobia on ACC enriched media plates was observed after 3-5 days of incubation at 28±2oC. The different rhizobia showing superior expansion on ACC supplemented medium plates were characterized as ACC utilizers and presumed to have ACC deaminase activity. The expansion on minimal medium plates was used as control to compare the growth on plates supplemented with ACC.\r\nProduction of indole-3-Acetic Acid (IAA) \r\nEstimation of Indole-3-acetic acid was done by Salkowski’s method (Mayer, 1958).\r\nReagents\r\n(1) Salkowski’s reagent- 1 ml of 0.05M FeCl3 in 50 ml of 35% of perchloric acid (HClO4).\r\n(2) Indole-3-acetic acid stock solution- 100 mg ml-1 in 50% ethanol.\r\nRhizobia were grown in flasks with 25 ml of yeast extract mannitol broth enriched by 0.1 g L-1 DL-tryptophan. These flasks were incubated at 28±2oC. Fourth days, two ml of culture broth was centrifuged at 7,000 rpm for 2 min. and IAA was determined in culture supernatant using following procedure:\r\nSalkowski\'s reagent was added to 2 ml of culture supernatant, mixed, and shaken, then let to stand at room temperature for 30 minutes to acquire a pink color, which was measured on spectrophotometer at 530 nm. Standard was pure indole-3-acetic acid.\r\nRESULTS AND DISCUSSION \r\nA total of 26 rhizobia were isolated from Sesbania rostrata (Root as well as stem nodules) and stored at 4°C for further studies. Enzymes such as ACC deaminase are formed via the variety of strains and its production is typically associated to free-living bacteria/rhizobacteria, a few fungi and members of Stramenopiles. Bacteria and fungi that convey ACC deaminase can lesser the impact of a range of diverse stresses that influence plant enlargement and progress. ACC deaminase considered as important PGP traits for rhizobacteria and endophytic bacteria (Glick, 2014). ACC deaminase making may be beneficial in the nodulation practice thus enhance the nitrogen supply for legume plants because of an added efficient nodulation. The enzyme ACC deaminase lowers plant ethylene levels is one of the key mechanisms employed by plant growth promoting bacteria to help plant development under stress conditions. Screening of all Sesbania rostrata rhizobia for ACC utilization was carried out on minimal medium plates supplemented with 3mM ACC. Log phase actively grown cells were spotted on the ammonium sulphate (2 gL-1) as control medium plate and on ACC (3 mM) supplemented medium plate. These plates were incubated for 3-4 days at 28±2oC and compared the development of rhizobia on plates supplemented with both N source i.e. ammonium sulphate and ACC. It was observed that all rhizobial isolates tested showed development on minimal medium supplemented with ammonium sulphate as compared to ACC supplemented plates which showed growth of 65% rhizobia, indicating that only these rhizobial isolates have ACC deaminase activity (Table 2, Plate 1 and Fig. 1). Likewise, Singh et al. (2017) reported that forty nine percent of the rhizobia from pigeon pea showed growth on ACC supplemented plates. On ACC-supplemented plates, 38.9% of Pseudomonas strains exhibited good growth, according to Khandelwal and Sindhu\'s (2013) research. To reduce drought stress in Vigna mungo L. and Pisum sativum L., Saikia et al., (2018) investigated the effects of the consortium with three rhizobacteria that produce ACC-deaminase: Ochrobactrum pseudogrignonense RJ12, Pseudomonas spp. RJ15, and Bacillus subtilis RJ46. The consortium treatment considerably enhanced the treated plants\' dry weight, dry shoot length, and seed germination %. According to Saleem et al., (2018), inoculated velvet bean plants with plant growth promoting rhizobia (PGPR) that included the ACC deaminase enzyme during a drought environment grew more quickly than untreated plants. Compared to uninoculated plants, ethylene emission from the roots and foliage of inoculated velvet bean plants was noticeably lower. Therefore, PGPR that exhibit ACC deaminase activity shield plants against growth suppression caused by drought, excessive salt, nematodes, bacterial and fungal diseases, flooding, anoxia, metals, and organic pollutants (Gamalero and Glick, 2015). Endophytic bacterial strains of Bacillus subtilis LK14 has revealed major scenario of ACC deaminase (448.3 ± 2.91 nM α-ketobutyrate mg−1 h−1) (Khan et al., 2016). Many researchers reported that around 50-55% of abiotic stress tolerant rhizobial isolates obtained from diverse legumes like pigeonpea, guar, mungbean and mothbean have been found to be good ACC deaminase producers (Kuldeep, 2013; Dhull et al., 2016 and Mondal et al., 2017). Belimov et al. (2019) also reported that R. leguminosarum bv. viciae 1066S exhibiting ACC deaminase activity increased shoot biomass, nodulation, nitrogen fixation, water use efficiency (WUE), and nutrient uptake in pea plats exposed to water deficit conditions. \r\nIAA production is prevalent amongst environmental bacteria that inhabit soils. Therefore, all 26 rhizobial isolates were tested for IAA production. All rhizobial isolates were found to be IAA producers, though, their production quantity wide-ranging significantly from 0.45 to 22.77 μg/ml. Out of 26 isolates 23, 31 and 46% were poor, moderate and excellent IAA producers, respectively. Maximum IAA production was observed by the rhizobial isolates SRTn/s (22.77 μg/ml), while the isolate SRHg/s (0.45 μg/ml) showed minimum IAA production (Table 2, Fig 2 and Plate 2). It was observed that all isolates showed IAA production however, their production amount varied considerably. Indole acetic acid was produced by 26 Rhizobial strains isolated from Sesbania sesban (L.) Merr. in different zones of Andhra Pradesh, according to Sridevi and Mallaiah (2007), but only five strains produced the most significant amount in YEM broth supplemented with L-tryptophan. Maximum amount (28.0 µg/ml) of IAA was produced by Rhizobium strain 13 after seventy two hours of incubation. Mohite (2013) also reported that out of ten IAA producing isolates, five isolates were selected as efficient producers from rhizosphere bacteria. Comparable, outcome were also observed by Khalid et al., (2004) who categorised the in vitro IAA production by rhizobacteria in three major groups: low (1 to 10 μg/ml), medium (11 to 20 μg/ml) and high producers (21 to 30 μg/ml). Compared to control plants, seedlings inoculated by IAA-producing bacteria produced more shoot biomass, longer roots, and more colonization (Etesami et al., 2014). Dhull et al., (2016) also reported that all the 54 clusterbean rhizobia were found to be IAA producers, though, their production quantity varied considerably. Boora (2016) also reported that most of the abiotic stress tolerant pigeon pea rhizobia were good IAA producer having different levels of IAA production. Similarly, Subha (2018) reported that all the native rhizobial isolates from different legumes crop showed IAA production, however their production amount varied considerably from 1.62 to 12.3 ug/ml. IAA secretion was estimated of the three Rhizobium isolates (Rf3, Rf11 and Rf12), the maximum amount of IAA was found in yeast extract mannitol medium supplemented with 500µg/ml L-tryptophan. Lebrazi et al. (2020) isolated eighty rhizobial bacteria isolated from root nodules of Acacia cyanophylla grown in different regions of Morocco were firstly screened for their ability to produce IAA. Then, IAA production by a combination of isolates and the inoculation effect on the germination of Acacia cyanophylla seeds was studied using the best performing isolates in terms of IAA production.','Kuldeep Singh, Rajesh Gera, Nidhi Sharma, Jagdish Parshad and Sushil Kumar Singh (2022). Amminocyclopropane-1-carboxylate (ACC) Utilization and Indole-3-acetic Acid (IAA) Production by Sesbania rostrata rhizobial isolates. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 14(3): 70-76.'),(5226,'136','Investigation on the Suitability of Cake Batter for 3D Printing','Pentala Mallesham, S. Parveen*, P. Rajkumar, G. Gurumeenakshi and M. Balakrishnan','13 Investigation on the Suitability of Cake Batter for 3D Printing Pentala Mallesham.pdf','',1,'3D Food Printing is a system of defining options for creative personalization, and revolutionizing food production. In spite of the increasing commercial potential for bakery products, no study has yet examined the printability of cake batter. The influence of the incorporation of hydrocolloids on the dimensional stability of the cake batter was investigated. xanthan gum was blended in mass fractions of 0.25% and 0.75%. The rheological and textural properties of the cake batter were measured and 3D printed structures were analysed. The cake batter of control possessed a low consistency index (248.4Pa.sn) and printed objects deformed and sagged during post-printing. Whereas the cake batter with the addition of 0.75% xanthan gum displayed shear-thinning behaviour, a consistency index (k) of 975.7(Pa.sn), and good elastic modulus (G′) resulting in excellent extrudability and printability. Printability and rheological properties are mainly influenced by the source of particles and particle content. Good printing precision and shape stability (upto Height = 3cm) were obtained for the cake batter with 0.75% of xanthan gum. The printed objects exhibited smooth shape, and good resolution, and could withstand the shape over time.','3D Food Printing, hydrocolloid, cake batter, consistency index, elastic modulus, textural properties','The effects of hydrocolloid inclusion on the dimensional stability of 3D printed cake batter were examined in the current study. In this investigation, it was discovered that the rheological behaviour and textural characteristics of cake batter containing 0.75% of xanthan gum were suitable for 3D printing created objects. The results demonstrate that cake batter containing 0.75% xanthan gum could be successfully printed while maintaining its 3D design shape. Increasing the percentage of xanthan gum in the cake batter prevented the loss of its mechanical strength. The dynamic viscoelastic behaviour in the frequency sweep demonstrated that the cake batter exhibits rapid viscoelastic loss that induces deformation. In summary, this study offers a method for enhancing the shape retention of 3D printed objects and gives insight into the material qualities needed for the processing methods used in the 3D printing of food materials.','INTRODUCTION\r\n3D printing is an additive manufacturing technique that involves laying down consecutive layers of material to create a three-dimensional object (Hao et al., 2010). It provides new levels of localised manufacturing that are truly based on digital fabrication via layer-by-layer deposition in three-dimensional space (Yang et al., 2017). This technology helps to create customised food without the need for specialised tooling, moulding, or human interaction and allows for creating an unusual and complex shape (Dankar et al., 2018). Food designers can use this technology to create some innovative food designs that are impossible to design by hand or with traditional moulds (Liu et al., 2017). The manufacturers of bakeries, cafes, and restaurants can use it to produce baked goods like cakes and biscuits with less labour by creating personalised patterns based on the preferences of their customers (Cohen et al., 2009). Sugar, gelatine based chocolate, and other food components are utilised to construct the desired shape using this approach (Mantihal et al., 2020).\r\n There are numerous food 3D printing technologies. Extrusion-based is the most used method for printing food. The semi-solid food material is extruded as a tiny thread by the printing nozzle, which has three axes of motion viz, X, Y, and Z (Liu et al., 2018). Foods can be natively printable, or maybe non-printable and may require appropriate pre-processing (such as the addition of hydrocolloids) to make them printable. The stability of 3D objects both before and after printing is a major issue (Hussain et al., 2022), that layers must be rigid and strong enough to support both their weight and the weight of subsequent layers without severely deforming or altering shape (Sun et al., 2015). When 3D printed objects are processed, additives and recipe control are two techniques that can significantly increase the accuracy of shape (Lipton et al., 2010). Purees, gels, and doughs are all combined with structural hydrocolloids to support their structures(Yang et al., 2017). The use of hydrocolloids with food ingredients to create printable food products with a variety of textures and flavours (Cohen et al., 2009).\r\nHydrocolloids are effective food additives with several uses because of their ability to interact and bind with water. The most often used ones are starch, xanthan gum, beta-glucan, guar gum, pectin, alginate, carrageenan, and inulin (Funami, 2011). This research aims to investigate the printability of xanthan gum-based cake batter. The impact of hydrocolloid inclusion on the rheological characteristics, printing performance, and textural profile of the product to demonstrate the stability of 3D printed goods.\r\nMATERIAL AND METHODS\r\nA. Materials\r\nWheat flour (9.2g/100 g protein and10% mc, 0.86% ash),Powdered Sugar, and Eggs were purchased from local grocers of Coimbatore, Tamil Nadu. Cake Margarine (fat) (TSR International New Super Blend), Double-acting baking powder (Bakers Colour& Flavours (INDIA) Coimbatore, Tamilnadu), Cake Gel (IVORY,V Subramanian and CO, Tiruppur, Tamilnadu), Vanilla No 1 (International Flavors & Fragrances India Private Limited, Chennai), and Xanthan Gum (urban platter).\r\nB. Preparation of Cake Batter\r\nMixing Method. The flour-batter method is used for the preparation of cake batter. The mixture of fat (margarine) is creamed up with an equal proportion of (1:1) flour until a light creamy mass is obtained. Other ingredients namely Eggs, Sugar, Cake Gel, and Vanilla added to a planetary mixer, which is then whisked at a speed of 80 rpm for 3min. Then the mixture is blended in the same container by using a planetary mixer at a speed of 60 rpm for 2-3 min witha priorly prepared creamy mass and remained baking powder and xanthan gum are added.\r\nSteady Shear Measurements. Rheology of the material supply was examined using a parallel plate rheometer (MCR 52 series, Anton Paar Co. Ltd., Austria) with parallel plate geometry with a diameter of 50 mm. The experiments were carried out at 25°C with a 1 mm gap between the two plates. The steady shear viscosity measurements of the samples were recorded by ramping the shear rate from 0.1 to 500 s−1. Once the sample was loaded, the geometry was adjusted to the place of the measurement, and any excess sample was cleared from the edges. The acquired rheological values were fitted to the power-law model to explain how apparent viscosity and shear are related (Eq. 1) (Wilson et al., 2020).\r\n η=k.γ^(n-1) (1)\r\nwhere η is the material viscosity (Pa s), γ is the shear rate (s−1), k is the consistency index (Pa sn), and n is the flow behaviour index (dimensionless).\r\nOscillatory Dynamic Measurements. A Rheometer (MCR 92 series, Anton Paar Co. Ltd. Austria) was used to measure the dynamic viscoelastic properties of the material supply by a small amplitude oscillatory frequency sweep test. Initially, strain sweeps (0.01 to 100 per cent) at a fixed frequency of 1 Hz were used to calculate the linear viscoelastic range (LVR) of the samples.\r\nAt 0.05% strain (in the viscoelastic linear regime) and 25oC, the frequency sweep test was conducted with frequency ranging from 0.1 to 100 rad/s. By measuring the shear storage modulus (G\'), which describes the elastic behaviour of the samples, and the shear loss modulus (G\"), which describes the viscous behaviour of the sample, dynamic rheological parameters (mechanical spectra) of the samples were recorded. The loss factor (tanδ) was determined by (Eq. 2) (Ronda et al., 2011).\r\n tan δ=G\"/G\' (2)\r\nC. Printing Process\r\nThe food-based 3D Printer (Fabforge Innovations Private Limited, Coimbatore, Tamil Nadu) (Fig. 1), is primarily outfitted with four cylindrical metal tubes and an XYZ positioned supplied with a pneumatic extrusion system is propelled by compressed gas. The food components were placed in a plastic syringe which was put into a metal tube. The printing contained four tubes that could be used individually or collectively for four different types of materials (Huang et al., 2019). The syringe barrel was filled with cake batter and composite with gums, and the printing programme was set up. Fusion 360 software was used to build two 3D models (a cylinder, and a mickey mouse), which were then translated using the slicing programme simplify 3D (Simplify3D®, Cincinnati, OH). The following printing settings were made: flow rate 100%, with a rectilinear fill pattern; printing nozzle aperture-1.20 mm; nozzle height- 1.15 mm; printing speed-40 mm/s. These settings were established based on the initial tests. The cylinder and the mickey mouse were printed in the following dimensions 1) cylinder (30 mm in length, width, and height), and 2) Mickey Mouse (w = 35mm, l = 40mm, h = 30mm).\r\n\r\n3D Structure Analysis. In this experiment, a cylinder (30×30×30mm3) and a mickey mouse (w = 35mm, l = 40mm, h = 35mm) were chosen for printing. The printed cylinder and mickey mouse were measured for length, width, and height using vernier callipers. The research approach of Liu et al., (2019) was used to evaluate the quality of printed samples. During and immediately after printing, images of the printed structures were taken, and the print quality was visually graded on a scale of 1 to 5 (1 = extremely terrible, 5 = very good).\r\nD. Textural Properties of the Prepared Cake Batter\r\nThe strength of the mixture was studied by performing a texture profile analysis using a texture analyser (TA-HD plus, Stable Micro Systems Ltd., UK) attached to a cylindrical probe (P/36) by the compression of the cake batter. The initial distance between plate and probe was set to 3.0 cm, 2 mm is the test speed, 3 mm is the pre-test speed, and 10 mm is the post-test speed (Yang, et al., 2018).\r\n\r\nRESULT AND DISCUSSION\r\nA. Rheological Behaviour\r\nSteady Shear Measurements. In order to achieve continuous extrusion during 3D printing, food items must be able to flow. By analysing the shear profile and viscosity of the cake batter, the impact of different xanthan gum concentrations on the rheological behaviour of the prepared cake batter was investigated. All materials exhibited shear-thinning behaviour, showing that the material\'s apparent viscosity decreased as the shear rate increased irrespective of the xanthan gum proportion added. The apparent viscosity curve (Fig. 2) shows that the viscosity of the prepared cake batter decreases as shear rates increases, exhibiting shear-thinning behaviour for n < 1 and k = 248.4, 565.3, & 975.7Pa.sn for control, 0.25% and 0.75% of xanthan gum respectively. The model demonstrated non-Newtonian behaviour, with all cake batters exhibiting shear thinning behaviour due to enhanced fluidity of the batter matrix brought about by the breakdown of large agglomerated particles into smaller ones (Azari et al., 2020).\r\nThe cake batter with 0.75% xanthan gum is thicker than the control because it has a lower flow behaviour index (n = 0.327). This may be because xanthan gum has strong thickening properties, i.e. greater apparent viscosity (195 Pa.s) of the cake batter with 0.75% xanthan gum compared to the control (80 Pa.s). High k values of cake batter with 0.75% xanthan gum indicate that the batter\'s emulsified structure is rigid. Due to significant water absorption in batters throughout the solubilization, gelatinization, and unfolding processes, which lowers the quantity of free water available in the solution, the cake batter with 0.75% of xanthan gum has high apparent viscosity (Martínez et al., 2015). The steady-state shear measurements that the viscosity decreased as the shear rate increased, indicating that the material supply exhibited the necessary post extrusion behaviour that contributed to structural stability. \r\nDynamic oscillatory measurement. Understanding the flow ability and post-printing stability of material supply is simplified by an evaluation of the dynamic viscoelastic properties. The loss modulus (G\") is the viscous response, which is the ratio of stress to strain under vibratory conditions, whereas the storage modulus (G\') is a measure of the elastic solid-like behaviour. The loss tangent (tan δ = G\"/G\') is used as a characteristic parameter to exhibit the different viscoelastic behaviour (Yang et al., 2018). A 0.05 % strain rate was selected for the oscillation test in the linear viscoelastic range. In every sample, G\' and G\" values increased with angular frequency. It was observed that batters behaved solidly because the storage modulus was greater than the loss modulus. All batters\' G′ was significantly higher than G′′ (Fig. 3), indicating an elastically active gel-like structure that is favourable to the ability of a printed object to retain its shape (Huang et al., 2019). The cake batter with 0.75% xanthan gum possesses good printing stability and has G′ (16.70kPa) and G′′ (5.95 kPa) values that are higher compared with the control cake batter of G′ (11.16 kPa) and G′′ (3.80 kPa) values.\r\nAdditionally, the mixing system produced higher inter-and intramolecular pressures as the oscillation frequency, G′ and G′′, increased (Liu et al., 2020). Based on the results, it is evident that the tan δ for all prepared cake batter was < 1, indicating the elastic nature and the solid-like behaviour of the material supplies (Wilson et al., 2020).\r\nB. Analysis of Textural properties\r\nAssessing the behaviour of the material when subjected to mechanical stress is made easier by analysis of the textural profile of the prepared cake batter. The control, 0.25%, and 0.75% xanthan gum of prepared cake batter hardness, adhesiveness, springiness, cohesion, and resilience were analysed. The amount of extrusion force necessary to push the material out of the print head with a changing cross-sectional area from the syringe feeder to a smaller aperture of the printing nozzle is studied by the hardness of the material supply. The cake batter with 0.75% of xanthan gum exhibited a hardness of (100.21g), which is high compared to the hardness of the control cake batter (87.22g). All samples\' hardness significantly increased as hydrocolloid concentrations increased (Kim et al., 2017). The characteristic of the material supply known as adhesiveness supports the binding of each printed layer (Yang et al., 2018). The adhesiveness of the control (-87.20) was significantly lower than that of cake batter with 0.75% of xanthan gum (-79.58). This facilitates the control of cake batter flows easily out of the syringe feeder at 1bar pressure. The material undergoes pressure as it moves from a higher to a lower cross-sectional area and exhibits the extruder swell phenomenon as it passes through the nozzle. The degree of this phenomenon is determined by the springiness of the material supply (Anukiruthika et al., 2020). The ability of a substance to form a dough is explained by its cohesiveness (Wilson et al., 2020). Compared with all the prepared cake batter, the higher values of springiness, and cohesiveness for cake batter with 0.75% xanthan gum indicate the better strength of the material supply, making it suitable for extrusion-based printing (Wilson et al., 2021).\r\nC. Printability and stability of the sample\r\nThe ability of a sample to be printed directly affects the stability of the 3D printed shape over time (Kim et al., 2017). The printed structure of different cake batters is shown in Table 3. The cake was printed in the shape of a cylinder (d = 30 mm, h = 30 mm, filling ratio = 100%) and mickey mouse (w=35mm, l=40mm, h=30mm) using a needle with a diameter (d) of 1.22mm, printing velocity of 40 mm/s and compressive pressure varied according to the different cake batter type.\r\nIn the case of xanthan gum incorporation in 0.25% & 0.75% to the cake batter was smoothly extruded and exhibited shape retention, thus indicating a high-quality product. But an increase in xanthan gum caused the extrusion of layers to stop suddenly, which prevented the creation of a successful structure. The results obtained indicate that excess xanthan gum results in an increase in mechanical strength that is relatively substantial and leads to poor printing performance (Liu et al., 2019).\r\nThe control cake batter had a much smaller volume and more disorganised internal texture arrangements showed slight deformation at the top due to low material stability. The control cake batter had poor shape stability. In particular, an obscure texture and the worst printing quality were observed for the control cake batter, which almost completely lost its shape. The addition of 0.25% and 0.75% of xanthan gum to the cake batter in the group significantly altered the printing quality, according to observations. Additionally, observation of the cylinder-shaped sample revealed that the cake batter with 0.75% xanthan gum was able to maintain the cylindrical shape which was maintained at a constant volume.\r\nThe cake batter with 0.25% xanthan gum showed some deformation. The cake batter with 0.75% of xanthan gum displayed a significantly more structured internal texture compared to the other samples, as well as improved stability in both shapes.\r\n','Pentala Mallesham, S. Parveen, P. Rajkumar, G. Gurumeenakshi and M. Balakrishnan (2022). Investigation on the Suitability of Cake Batter for 3D Printing. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 14(3): 77-82.'),(5227,'136','Present status of Rapeseed Mustard oil Quality Improvement','Kavita Raina, S. K. Rai, Om Prakash Yadav* and Deepak Kaushik','14 Present status of Rapeseed Mustard oil Quality Improvement Om Prakash Yadav.pdf','',1,'In India, traditional indigenous species such as brown sarson, black mustard, yellow sarson, toria, Indian mustard, and taramira are grown, as well as non-traditional species such as white mustard, gobhi sarson, and karan rai, or Ethiopian mustard. Since around 3500 BC, indigenous species have been cultivated. Oilseed crops, behind cereals, are the second most influential determinant of the agricultural economy in the field crop sector. India also imports a lot of vegetable oils. Vegetable oil use has increased in recent years, both for culinary and industrial purposes. The demand-supply mismatch in edible oils has required massive imports, which now account for 60% of the country\'s needs. Major achievements in genetic resource management, quality improvement, varietal development, hybrid development, improving tolerance to abiotic and biotic stresses, seed production, and the convergence of conventional and biotechnological approaches. In oilseeds brassica improvement, the production of 203 agro climatic specific varieties, including four hybrids, five low erucic, five low erucic, and five low glucosinolate varieties, as well as the registration of 42 genetic stocks, has been outstanding. In addition, the report tries to give a future vision and plan for rapeseed-mustard research in order to improve productivity and quality while maintaining yield improvements. Major challenge in our study is to find the correct data related to the study but it become possible through some international author\'s publications.','Oilseeds, quality control, fatty acid, erucic acid, glucosinolate, PUFAs, MUFA','Rapeseed breeding for enhanced seed quality resulted in the emergence of double zero cultivars with low 22:1 as well as low seed GSL concentrations. A comprehensive and powerful investigation on seed quality in Brassica napus enabled us in finding of many generic regions implicated in seed quality among diverse mapping populations.','INTRODUCTION\r\nIndia is one of the world\'s greatest producers of oilseeds, contributing significantly to Indian agriculture and providing a source of income for rural communities (Rai et al., 2016). Brassica oil is a valuable source of energy and nourishment for humans, while degreased cakes are used as feed in animal nutrition (Baltrukoniene et al., 2015). Brassica produces roughly a third of India\'s total oil, making it one of the country\'s most important edible oilseed crops, ahead of peanuts. The fat composition of oils derived from Brassica seeds for culinary and industrial purposes determines their worth. out of the major oilseed crops extensively. grown in India, rapeseed and mustard inhabit the second most important place after soybean because of its greater sustainability and adaptability to diverse agro-ecological situations (Choudhary et al., 2022). Indian mustard (Brassica juncea (L.); B. campestris L. ecotypes toria, brown sarson, and yellow sarson; gobhi sarson (B. napus L.), Ethiopian mustard (B. carinata), and taramira (Brassica juncea L.) their Rapeseed mustard is used to make animal feed, vegetable oil, and biodiesel (Rai et al., 2016). From the above mentioned Brassica species, in the Indian subcontinent, B. juncea is one of the dominant species expanding along with B. rapa (syn. B. campestris L.) and B. napus L., and these are the important sources of edible oil in India. Indian mustard is the scientific name for Brassica juncea. It has 36 chromosomes and derived as an amphidiploid of B. rapa (2n = 20; genome AA) and B. nigra (2n = 16; genome BB) (genome AABB) (Rai et al. 2017). Indian mustard (Brassica juncea L.) is largely self-pollinated with limited outcrossing ranging from 10–18% of the total seed set (Rai et al., 2012).\r\nOrganic acids produced from triglycerides and phospholipids are known as fatty acids. Unsaturated fatty acids have one carboxyl (-COOH) group and a lengthy carbon chain connected by double bonds, while saturated fatty acids have single bonds. Fatty acids have been the most common kind of dietary fat. Mustard seeds typically contain 37 to 42 percent oil, as well as the principal kinds of fatty acids derived from Brassica species, including palmitic acid (16:0), linoleic acid (18:2), stearic acid (18:0), oleic acid (18:1), eicosanoic acid (22:0), linolenic acid (18:3), and erucic (22:1) acid.\r\nBrassica species are widely farmed for edible and industrial oils produced from the seeds all over the world, however also contain considerable levels of unpalatable fatty acids, such as erucic acid, which are toxic to humans (Snowdon et al., 2007). Brassica oil has higher genetic variation in its fatty acid content than other vegetable oils. Brassica oil has more long-chain monounsaturated fatty acids than any other commercially produced plant oil, such as erucic acid (22:1). The oil is good for industrial use but not for human consumption due to the high quantity of erucic acid in it.\r\nAs a result, producing variants free of erucic acid is required, and lowering high erucic acid levels is a desirable breeding goal for Brassica oilseed crops. For human nutrition, crop species with greater amounts of C18:1 and C18:2 fatty acids have recently attracted more attention. Oils with a high oleic and linoleic acid content are more resistant to oxidation and produce fewer unwanted byproducts when deep fried. As a result, significant breeding objectives in Brassica juncea entail increasing oil content and enhancing the fatty acid composition of the seed oil.\r\nThe following are the goals of the rapeseed oil and seed meal quality enhancement programme:\r\n— The yield and quality characteristics of B. juncea and B. napos lines with low erucic acid and low glucosinolate were evaluated.\r\n— Rapeseed and mustard cultivars with decreased erucic and/or glucosinolate contents are being developed.\r\n— Basic research to better understand the genetics and breeding behaviour of erucic acid and glucosinolate content, as well as information on the reaction types \"0\" and \"00\" to endemic pests and illnesses.\r\nThe study of indigenous and foreign germplasm indicated a wide range of fatty acid variance in Brassica juncea.\r\nThe FAO/WHO recommends a greater ratio of MUFA/SUFA in human nutrition, as well as a large proportion of PUFAs, such as C18:2 and C18:3 with a needed ratio between 5:1 (x-6) and 10:1 (x-3) in Table 1. The oil content of Indian mustard lacks the optimal composition of fatty acids which is essential for the human energy and nourishment, as can be seen from the preceding guidelines. High erucic acid, in particular, is nutritionally undesirable, whereas high eruate levels in mustard oil are hazardous to various mammalian health (Somerville et al., 2000).\r\na) According to Sinha et al., (2007), fatty acids are present in mol% of cultivated varieties.\r\nb) The UN Food and Agriculture Organization and the World Health Organization collaborated on a report on \"Fats and Oils in Human Nutrition,\" which was presented in Rome on October 19–26, 1993.\r\nFatty Acid in Brassica Species: According to ideal fatty acid composition for safe human health, the unsaturated fatty acids in Brassica species are linoleic (20%), oleic (65%), linolenic (9%), and erucic acid (2%), while the saturated fatty acids are palmitic (6%) and stearic (2%). The fatty acid content of Brassica seed oil determines its nutritional value, with specific focus dedicated to the quantities of oleic, linoleic, linolenic, and erucic acids, which are all vital in human health and nutrition. In Indian mustard, oleic acid had a positive association with linoleic acid and a negative correlation with erucic acid. Linoleic acid exhibited a negative and significant association with erucic acid across the crops as well as in Indian mustard. Erucic acid in Indian mustard and glucosinolate content in toria were also negatively and significantly associated with linolenic acid.\r\nBiosynthesis of Fatty Acids and their Analysis: Dimov and Mollers (2010) investigated the genetic diversity of saturated fatty acid concentration in two sets of oilseed rape (B. napus) cultivars. In terms of total saturated fatty acids, the results showed that there are extremely significant genetic variations among the cultivars, ranging from 6.8 to 8.1 percent, with a mean of 7.4 percent. According to the characterization of mutants lacking in long-chain fatty acids in Arabidopsis thaliana, the Fatty Acid Elongase 1 (FAE1) gene is responsible for elongation of C18:1 (oleic acid) to C22:1 (erucic acid) (Lassner et al., 1996). The gene encodes β-ketoacyl-CoA synthase (KCS), a seed-specific condensing enzyme that works as a rate-limiting enzyme in erucic acid biosynthesis and is also implicated in the first stage of the fatty acid elongation pathway (Lassner et al., 1996). The embryonic control of erucic acid led to the development of the half-seed technique (Harvey and Downey, 1964) for the determination of the fatty acid composition of individual seeds. This technique was used worldwide in the genetic analysis of erucic acid and the development of zero-erucic acid Brassica cultivars. This method enables the plant breeder to analyse the fatty acid content of one cotyledon while retaining the other cotyledon with the embryo for planting. This approach was used by Kirk and Hurlstone (1983) to develop low erucic acid B. juncea lines.\r\nDifferent types of fatty acids in Brassica juncea: \r\n1. Palmitic acid (C16:0) and stearic acid (C18:0) are two types of fatty acids: Fats that are rich in palmitic or stearic acids find their applicability in various foods for consumption. Stearic acid, in comparison to palmitic acid, has lower low-density lipoprotein (LDL) cholesterol, which is well-known for causing coronary heart disease. Thus, replacing palmitic acid with stearic acid lowers LDL-cholesterol levels, lowering the risk of the disease. Saturated fatty acids palmitic acid (C16:0) and stearic acid (C18:0) are widely consumed in Western nations (Ervin et al., 2004). Some studies indicate that palmitic acid is more cholesterol-raising in comparison to stearic acid (Mensink 2016).\r\n2. Oleic acid: Oleic acid is some kind of unsaturated fatty acid that plays a significant function in human nutrition. Oleic acid-rich fats and oils are very resistant to heat and oxidation, making them ideal for a wide range of applications. Because oleic acid-rich oils have thermal stability comparable to or equal to saturated fats, they are ideal for commercial food-service applications that replace saturated fats, meaning long-term stability. It allows you to heat them to a higher temperature without smoking, which helps to cut down on cooling time and food oiling. Unsaturated fats and oils, such as oleic acid oil, have the ability to reduce cholesterol levels, but saturated (palmitic and stearic) fatty acids have the ability to significantly elevate blood cholesterol levels. Vegetable oils with a high C18:1 concentration is becoming increasingly desirable in both nutritional and industrial uses.\r\n3. Linoleic acid: Increased dietary required linoleic acid (C18:2) and decreased linolenic acid have a significant impact on the nutritional quality of Brassica oil (C18:3). Linoleic acid and its derivatives are recognized as essential fatty acids since they cannot be generated by the human body and must be gained from diet. Furthermore, the edible oil\'s high amount of linoleic acid decreases blood cholesterol and prevents atherosclerosis. As a result, edible oils rich in linoleic acid are regarded as premium oils. Although linolenic acid is an important fatty acid, it can produce rancidity and off-flavor in the oil.\r\n4. Linolenic acid: Linolenic acid (C18:3) is a fatty acid found in many food oils. Linolenic acid is quickly oxidised due to its three double bonds, reducing the oil\'s shelf life. As a result, one of the most important breeding goals is to lower down the quantity of linolenic acid obtained from rapeseed. Because genetic diversity in linolenic acid content is restricted, x-rays and chemical mutagens are used to create low-linolenic acid mutants, which are predominantly seen in oilseed rape (Brassica napus ssp. oleifera) (Scarth et al., 1988). Linolenic acid is produced either by desaturation of linoleic acid (C18:2) or, possibly, by elongation of C16:3 (Thompson, 1983).\r\n5. Erucic acid: In general, erucic acid concentration varies greatly in the genus Brassica, depending on the genotype\'s allelic composition, ploidy level, genetic background, and environmental effect. Its ingestion is unsatisfactory, resulting in a variety of human health problems. As a result, genotypes and varieties with low levels of this fatty acid are nutritionally graded as high. Zero-erucic acid genotypes were found to belong to B. napus, B. rapa, and certain B. juncea and B. carinata, according to studies. Plasticizers, detergents, surfactants, and polyesters, among other goods, rely heavily on high erucic acid oil. As a result, producing genotypes with high erucic content is a major priority in today\'s brassica breeding. One of the most advantageous breeding programmes is the resynthesis of the amphidiploid species B. napus with high erucic acid content from genotypes of their diploid progenitors, B. oleracea and B. rapa.\r\nThe high oleic acid concentration in seed oil makes it more heat stable, making it better for cooking. Oleic acid makes seed oil more suitable for industrial usage, in order to boost up the efficiency of cooking oil. Furthermore, higher amount of oleic acid is considered to be nutritive for human consumption since they increase the levels of high-density lipoproteins (HDLs) in the blood while decreasing the levels of low-density lipoproteins (LDLs) (Chang and Huang 1998). When present in higher proportions in edible oil, erucic acid, another important MUFA, is known to be anti-nutritional and inappropriate for human consumption. Erucic acid levels in cooking oil are higher because humans have a larger cardiac conductance, which leads to increase in level of blood cholesterol (Sinha et al., 2007).\r\nSeveral genotypes with increased erucic acid levels will be essential for a variety of sectors. The plastic, tannery, cosmetic, polyster, and detergent industries all employ erucic acid-rich oil as a raw material (Coonrod et al., 2008). The genotypes Pusa 30, PM-21, and PM-24 with low erucic acid will be extremely important in the future when Brassica breeding programmes focus on the establishment of zero-erucic lines for nutritional objectives.\r\nPolyunsaturated fatty acids (PUFAs) are recognized to be precursors of long-chain fatty acids, which are used to make physiologically important compounds like prostaglandins. Cooking oil should be low in polyunsaturated fatty acids (PUFAs) such linoleic and linolenic acids. Linoleic and linolenic acid levels were 11.00–45.30 percent, 11.10–26.72 percent, 18.57–26.93 percent, 9.99–17.23 percent, 14.08–18.18 percent, 9.82–26.66 percent, and 14.08–18.18 percent respectively, in Brassica juncea, Brassica napus and Brassica rapa genotypes. Linoleic acid is an essential fatty acid that the human body cannot generate on its own and must be obtained from food.\r\nHigh quantities of linoleic acid in edible oil have been shown to lower blood cholesterol and prevent atherosclerosis. Despite the fact that linolenic acid known to be an essential fatty acid, its existence in the oil can cause rancidity as well as a bad taste (Sharafi et al., 2015). Brassica cultivars with low erucic acid levels and high linoleic acid levels can also be employed in various Brassica breeding programmes aimed at improving the quality and quantity of oil for nutritional and industrial uses.\r\nCanola: Canola is a vital source of oil for both edible and industrial uses and research to increase quality of oil is critical for maintaining its repute as a high-quality vegetable (Brassica) oil. Palmitic acid, linoleic acid, stearic acid, oleic acid, arachidic acid, linolenic acid, and erucic acid are some of the fatty acids contained in canola oil (Wang et al., 2017). Canola oil is used in human diets because of its high nutritional content, and it\'s been found to decline the plasma cholesterol levels when compared to nutriment heavy in saturated fatty acids. It has been shown that canola oil consumption affects biological activities that impact a variety of different disease risk indicators (Lin et al., 2013).\r\nThe oil\'s fatty acid content is genetically regulated, and it has been successfully altered to make products that are specially customized for their intended application. Canola oil typically includes ,<2% erucic acid, 5-8% saturated fats, 60-65% mono-saturated fats, and 30-35% polyunsaturated fats. Double zero oil is commonly used in cooking, salad toppings, and the production of margarine. This appeals to clients that cannot risk their health since canola has the lowest saturated fat ratio among all the prime edible vegetable oils.\r\nCanola cultivars having enhanced oil profiles used in high-temperature or saying continuous frying are sometimes referred to as \"specialty canola.\" Oils produced by specialty canola cultivars typically contain less than 4% of linolenic acid (18:3) and more than 70% of oleic acid (18:1). These cultivars\' oils are more temperature stable and have a longer shelf life.\r\nThe researchers has developed transgenic (genetically modified) canola seeds with much increased oil content. When the truncated canola storage protein 2S-1 promoter, also known as the napA promoter, is at an appropriate level, seed-specific over expression of BnLEC1 and BnL1L genes (from canola) under the control of the promoter significantly increases the seed oil content of the transgenic oilseed plant without affecting other major agronomic traits.\r\nQi et al. (2012) isolated the motifs for RNA-binding No.2 (RRM2) from the flowering control locus A (FCA) protein (FCA-RRM2) from canola variety No. 1 (i.e., \"Nannongyou\"), then used Agrobacterium rhizogenes to introduce it into cotyledon nodes, where it was fixed under a 35S-35S promoter (a variant of the cauliflower promoter) (for plant transformation selection). Canola FCA-RRM2 enhances plant growth, its organ size, cell structure, plant productivity, and their oil content, according to the researchers. These findings, according to the study\'s author, present a realistic way for improving the plant\'s genetics.\r\nFatty acid content. Now, people are well known about their healthy diet as consumption of any unhealthy food without essential fatty acids causes a number of diseases related to blood, endocrine, immune function and metabolic effects etc. (Bhoge, 2015). The utilization of brassica oil by humans is dependent on brassica oil. The majority of monounsaturated fatty acids (MUFAs) are utilized largely as a source of edible oil due to the larger concentration of 16 and 18 carbon unsaturated fatty acids in vegetable seeds (Simopoulos, 2008; Ramos et al., 2009; Priyamedha and co-workers 2014). Linolenic acid (C18:3), for example, is an undesired fatty acid for this content since it affects the oil\'s durability, despite the fact that it is an important dietary fatty acid. Furthermore, erucic acid (C22:1) includes about half of the total fatty acid, which is harmful to humans since it has been linked to myocardial lipidosis. Although erucic acid is abundant in wild forms of rapeseed and mustard (about 40% of total fatty acids), it is rarely found in rapeseed produced for human use.\r\nAccording to the annual report of ICAR-DRMR, 2020, the fatty acid profile of various genotypes, as determined by gas chromatography, revealed palmitic and stearic acid as major saturated fatty acids, while oleic, linoleic, and linolenic acid constituted prominent unsaturated fatty acids but nutritionally desirable fatty acids, according to the annual report. Erucic acid, on the other hand, was found to be less than 2% in some genotypes.\r\nAccording to DRMR Baratpur\'s annual report (ICAR-DRMR, 2020), (Table 2) the fatty acid content of PM 29, PM 30, PDZ 1, and Kranti has changed dramatically. The PDZ 1 variety has lower levels of erucic acid and eicosenoic acid than the other three varieties, and it has been found to be best suited for the timely sown and irrigated conditions of the National Capital Region of Delhi and its surrounding areas in the states of Haryana, Rajasthan, and Uttar Pradesh. It bears yellow seeds with a concentration of 40.56 percent of oil. PM 29 and PM 30 are low erucic acid (single zero) cultivars of Indian mustard, according to the most current annual report (ICAR-DRMR, 2020), with 1.96 and 1.56 percent, respectively.\r\nThese two have a lot of oleic acid in their fatty acid makeup (38.27–39.13), which is helpful since studies suggest that oleic acid consumption can help with cancer, inflammatory, and auto-immune illnesses. In the case of linolenic acid, which is thought to be harmful to human health, PM29 concentration has decreased from 15.86 (2018) to 11.87 (ICAR-DRMR, 2020).\r\nUsing genetic and molecular methodologies, nutritional value has indeed been improved\r\n1. Decline in erucic acid content at molecular level: TAGs carrying erucic acid (22:1) are esterified at the sn-1 and sn-3 positions within the glycerol backbone are naturally accumulated in the seeds of ancient cultivars, accounting for 45-50 percent of the overall fatty acid composition. Erucic acid concentration is genetically controlled in rapeseed by two additive loci (EA & EC) on A- and C-genomes, which combined account for 90% of the total variation in erucic acid, but evenly not (Jourdren et al., 1996). Using a QTL method, the two loci were found in rapeseed (Jourdren et al., 1996). When rats were feeded with HEAR (high erucic acid rapeseed) oil, they developed heart lesions and abnormal fat accumulation in their body, as well as a decrease in body weight (Badawy et al., 1994). Despite the fact that this adverse nutritional impact has never been identified in humans, recessive alleles (eA and eC) were inserted at both loci implicated in 22:1 concentration, Low Erucic Acid Rapeseed (LEAR) cultivars were selected. \r\n2. Seed oil content is determined by genetics: The primary goal of oilseed rape breeding is to increase seed oil content. The content of seed oil, on the other hand, is determined by a intricate genetic determinism that is still unknown. In order to improve the genetic development of the crop, breeders will require a good grasp of the genetic determinism of various products especially the oil. Using multiple segregating rapeseed populations, recent research has discovered many QTL (7 to 14 regions per study) involved in the control of oil content, which is consistent with the trait\'s polygenic determinism. Each QTL contributed for less than 10% of the overall variance in oil content, according to Delourme et al. (2006).\r\nSome of these QTL aligned to erucic acid content loci, suggesting that it is a key predictor of oil content in oilseed rape (Burns et al., 2003). The major factor affecting oil content was found to be additive effects (Delourme et al., 2006), with individual additive effects of the various alleles ranging from 0.2 to 1.2 percent. Variations in oil content are also influenced by significant environmental factors (Delourme et al., 2006).\r\n3. Transgenic approaches to improve content of seed oil: The majority of efforts to improve the seed\'s eventual lipid content have concentrated on metabolic pathways involved in Fatty Acid synthesis and TAG formation. Overexpression of a lysophosphatidate acyltransferase gene from yeast (Saccharomyces cerevisiae) in oilseed rape significantly improves seed oil content in controlled circumstances. These transgenic lines showed an increase in oil content of roughly 10% when tested under field settings. Individual FA biosynthesis genes, on the other hand, did not significantly boost lipid accumulation in seeds (Thelen and Ohlrogge 2002). Glycerol-3-phosphate (Gly3P) supply has recently been identified as a limiting factor for lipid synthesis (Vigeolas and Geigenberger 2004). In rapeseed, overexpression of a yeast Gly3P dehydrogenase gene resulted in a three- to fourfold rise in Gly3P concentration, resulting in a 40% increase in lipid content (Vigeolas et al., 2007).\r\n','Kavita Raina, S. K. Rai, Om Prakash Yadav and Deepak Kaushik (2022). Present status of Rapeseed Mustard oil Quality Improvement. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 14(3): 83-89.'),(5228,'136','Soil Fertility Assessment of Entisol and Vertisol orders from Ausa Tehsil of Latur District','Kadam Dhiraj Madhav*, Waghmare Mahesh Shivachandra, Lingayat Nagesh Radhakishan, Goswami Harish Giri, Chavan Nishigandha Satish and Kumawat Hemraj','15 Soil Fertility Assessment of Entisol and Vertisol orders from Ausa Tehsil of Latur District Kadam Dhiraj Madhav.pdf','',1,'Soil fertility assessment is one of the most basic decision making tool for dynamic sustainable plan of a particular area. Thus, the present study was carried out to evaluate the soil fertility status of the Entisol and Vertisol order from Ausa Tehsil of Latur District, total 100 soil samples were systematically collected from twenty villages by using global positioning system, where 40 and 10 samples identified as Entisol and Vertisol respectively, further were analyzed for their physico-chemical properties (pH, Electrical conductivity, organic carbon and calcium carbonate) and available macro nutrients (Nitrogen, Phosphorus and Potassium). The soils of Ausa tehsil were found neutral to moderately alkaline in reaction; soluble salt content comes under safe Limit i.e. no any deleterious effect found for all crops, where the organic carbon level exhibited low to moderately high content and non-calcareous to calcareous in nature. The NIV of Entisol and Vertisol of the area showed low content in Available N, whereas very low content for Available P, while most of the samples were found under very high content for Available K. Soils from order Entisol and Vertisol from Ausa tehsil showed positive and significant correlation between physico chemical properties (pH, EC, OC and CaCO3) and available nutrients (N, P and K) respectively, yet these soils required little attention related to regular monitoring of soil health and nutrient management practices for better crop production, in future.','Fertility status, Entisol, Vertisol, physicochemical properties, available nutrients, Nutrient Index','This analysis may help farmers to add deficient nutrients to obtain high quality products with high yield. According to the soil test resultsit can be concluded that most of the Entisol and Vertisol orders from Ausa tehsil showed very low to low in available N and P, moderately high to very high level in available K and characterized under neutral to moderately alkaline in soil reaction (pH) and less than 1.0 dS m-1 soluble salt content (EC) which comes under safe limit for all soils. The organic carbon level exhibited low to medium whereas non-calcareous to calcareous in nature were found. The Physico chemical properties (pH, EC, OC and CaCO3) of soils from order Entisol and Vertisol showed strongly positive and significant relation with available nutrients (N, P and K).Still improvements in future have to be done to improve the soil quality by practicing the better cropping systems instead of continuous cropping.','INTRODUCTION\r\nSoil fertility is an unseen factor plays an important role for making soil alive. Among the various challenges in soil system, soil fertility improvement has become major concerned day to day. The soil fertility Assessment consists of estimating the nutrient-supplying power of a particular soil. A proper soil evaluation before crop growing helps in adopting appropriate measures to make up for the shortcomings and ensuring a good crop production. Optimum productivity of any cropping system depends on ample supply of the nutrients, as an increase in cropping intensity coupled with shift from traditional varieties to that of nutrient demanding fertilizers responsive high yielding varieties have led to the large scale mining of nutrients from the soil. Due to this intensive cultivation practices and inadequate use of chemical fertilizers, the fertility and productivity of agricultural soil is deflecting. Hence the information with respect to physiochemical properties and availability of some macronutrients of the study area is lacking. Thus, it has been always considered to carry out genetic study as well as to find out fertility evaluation for making best use of the soil for crop production (Anonymous 2011). Therefore, an attempt was made to study the “fertility status of the soils from Ausa tehsil of Latur District” with the objectives to compute soil nutrient index.\r\nMATERIALS AND METHODS\r\nAusa is one of the major tehsil situated at south west side of Latur district. Soils from this area belong to the order vertisol, Inseptisol and Entisol derived from Deccan trap, varied in different color due to presence of minerals like smectite, kaolinite and vermiculite. On the basis of soil depth and texture, these soils have been classified as deep to medium black and shallow black soils (Gajbe et al., 1976). Soil samples collected from the study area were dried and crushed with the help of wooden rod and passed through 2 mm sieve and then used for the determination of Physico chemical properties and available nutrient content by adopting standard laboratory method. Soil reaction (pH) and Electrical conductivity (E.C.) was determined by the procedure given by Jackson (1973). Modified method of Walkely and Black (1934) was used for determination of organic carbon. The free calcium carbonate was determined by rapid titration method as outlined by Piper (1966), available nitrogen was estimated by alkaline KMnO4 method given by Subbiah and Asija (1956), available phosphorus was extracted by Olsen et al. (1954), available potassium was determine through the method given by Jackson (1973) respectively. Whereas the nutrient index approach introduced by Ramamurthy and Bajaj (1969) was used to evaluate the fertility status of soils based on the samples in each of the six classes. The whole data was subjected to statistical analysis by the method described by Panse and Sukhatme (1967).\r\nRESULT AND DISCUSSION\r\nThe data (Table 1 and Fig. 1) indicated that the pH of Entisol soils varied from 7.1 to 8.6 having a mean of 7.75, while the pH of Vertisol soils was ranged from 7.1 to 8.1 with mean value of 7.63. Hence, it was clearly showed that soils of Ausa Tehsil were neutral to moderately alkaline in nature. This might be due to dominance presence of exchangeable Ca, Mg and free CaCO3 with higher per cent of base saturation, Waghmare et al. (2008) recorded that the soils of Ausa tehsil ranged from 7.05 to 8.9 with an average value of 8.07. Similar results were also reported by Hiray and Takankhar (2013), Dhamak et al. (2014) respectively.\r\nElectrical conductivity of the Entisolsoils varied from 0.28 to 0.95 dS m-1 with an average value of 0.93 dS m-1, whereas Electrical conductivity of the vertisol soils varied from 0.28 to 0.69 dS m-1 with an average value 0.49 dS m-1 (Table 1 and Fig. 1). Results derived from the soils for EC, showed that there was no remarkable accumulation of soluble salts in soils because of sufficient flushing and leaching of soluble salts from Upper into lower layers, which happens might be due to various agronomic practices, frequently irrigation of crops and light textured nature of the soils. Hiray and Takankhar (2013) reported that the EC of soils from Tuljapur tehsil of Osmanabad varied from 0.110 to 0.810, 0.100 to 0.930 and 0.130 to 1.000 dS m-l in Vertisol, Inceptisol and Entisol respectively. Similar results were also reported by Chandan et al. (2018); Thombe et al. (2020).\r\nThe data (Table 1 and Fig. 1) on organic carbon content in Entisol were ranged from 2.1 to 7.5 g kg-1with mean value 4.6 g kg-1, whereas the vertisol soils were varied from 3.5 to 7.5 g kg-1with mean value 5.3 g kg-1, From the above values it was firm that these soils come under low to medium in O.C. content. Reason behind the existence of variation in organic carbon content as Lower to medium range might be due to high temperature of Latur District (up to 41.5) and good aeration in the soil increased the rate of oxidation of organic matter resulting reduction in organic carbon content. Dhamak et al. (2014) found that soils from orders Vertisol, Inseptisol and Entisol varied from 1.30 to 19.90, 1.40 to 16.00 and 1.40 to 11.40 g/kg-1 with a mean value 5.00, 4.50 and 3.80 g kg-1, respectively from Soils of Ambajogai tehsil in Beed district. This range of organic carbon indicated that the majority of these soils were low to moderately high in O.C. content. Such results were also in line with the results reported by Verma et al. (2013); Kumar et al. (2014); Narsaiah et al. (2018); Srinidhi et al. (2020).\r\nThe Calcium carbonate (CaCO3) content in Entisol soils from Ausa tehsil ranged between 31 to 92 g kg-1with an average value of 66 g kg-1. The content of calcium carbonate in soils from Vertisol of Ausa tehsil varied from 31 to 83 g kg-1 with a mean value of 48.9 g kg-1 (Table 1 and Fig. 1). From the above findings it showed that these soils were non-calcareous to calcareous in nature, also the variations found in available CaCO3 would be due to varying range of pH and clay content which alleviate the accumulation of CaCO3 in studied soils. Waghmare et al. (2008) observed that the range of CaCO3 in soils was varied from 0.88 to 12.6 per cent with the mean value of 4.88 per cent, which shows non-calcareous to calcareous nature of soils from Ausa tehsil in Latur district. Similar results were also noted by Nirawar et al. (2009) Narsaiah et al. (2018); Dhotare et al. (2019).\r\nThe available N status of Entisol soil was ranged from 140 to 271 kg ha-1 with a mean value of 184.4 kg ha-1, while available Nitrogen content of Vertisol soils was varied from 135 to 215 kg ha-1 with an average value of 171.8 kg ha-1 (Table 2 and Fig. 1). From the above results it was observed that this soils were comes under very low to low in available Nitrogen content. The low status of available N in these soils might be due to the differential cultivation management, difference in soil physiographic properties, removal of N by growing of exhaustive crops along with limited addition of Nitrogen via organics, less accumulation of organic matter, leaching losses, Denitrification-fixation and volatization. Nirawar et al. (2009) stated that the available N content from Ahmedpur tehsil of Latur district was varied from 100.35 to 323.00 kg ha-l. Similar findings were also confirmatory with the findings given by Shinde et al. (2014) and Thombe et al. (2020).\r\nThe content of available P (Table 2 and Fig. 1) from Entisol varied from 10.50 to 15.20 kg ha-1 with an average value of 12.76 kg ha-1, whereas available Phosphorous from the soils under Vertisol was ranged from 11.9 to 14.5 kg ha-1 with a mean value of 13.39 kg ha-1. Such very low to low availability of phosphorous might be caused of frequent variations in soil properties i.e. pH, organic matter content, texture and various agro-soil management practices, also due to increase level of clay content in soil and higher amount of Fe-Al Hydrous oxides. Shinde et al. (2014) reported that the available P content was ranged from 2.42 to 19.62 kg ha-lwith a mean value of 10.23 kg ha-lfrom udgir tehsil in Latur district. Similar results were also in agreement with the findings by Nirawar et al. (2009); Kumar et al. (2014); Priyanka et al. (2018).\r\nThe status of available K (Table 2 and Fig. 1) from studied area for Entisol soils was ranged from 256 to 868 kg ha-1 with an average value 517.15 kg ha-1, also the available Potassium was ranged from 342 to 652 kg ha-1 with a mean value of 520.6 kg ha-1 for Vertisol soils, such higher content of available potassium resulted in the soils of Ausa Tehsil might be due to the persistence of K rich minerals in the Parent material, with presence of high clay content like Feldspars, mica and Illite etc. Waghmare et al. (2009) reported that the available potassium content in black soils of Ausa tehsil of Latur district varied from 141.45 to 1419 kg ha-1 with mean value of 532.20 kg ha-1, this value -indicated that soils of Ausa tehsil were medium to high in available K content. Similar findings were also noted by Dhamak et al. (2014); Kumar et al. (2014); Biradar (2018); Kashiwar et al. (2019).\r\nNutrient index Value of Entisol and Vertisol Soils from Ausa tehsil. Considering soil nutrient index for soils of Ausa Tehsil represented in Table 3 and Fig. 2, itt was revealed that these soils were mostly distributed under Low for available Nitrogen, low for available Phosphorous while very high for available Potassium. The NIV resulted according to Ramamoorthy and Bajaj (1969) was 0.98 and 0.95 for available N, 0.50 and 0.50 for Available P, whereas available K, 2.92 and 2.95 for Entisol and Vertisol orders respectively, against the NIV rating ˂ 0.75 for very low, 0.75 – 1.25 for Low and > 2.75 for Very high fertility status of area. On the basis of resulted nutrient index value for available Nitrogen soils from Ausa tehsil was categorized in very low to low content. As Nitrogen already the limiting nutrient for the growth and development of plants, reason behind this might be due to hot and dry climate condition associated with this region, limited addition of Nitrogen via organics, less accumulation of OM in these soils etc. To overcome these critics it is mandatory to apply organic wastes and matter as an important source of nutrient to the agricultural soils, also expected to added N fertilizers to the greater magnitude.\r\n \r\n\r\nThe available Phosphorous status in Ausa tehsil soils was found in category very low to low, this might be due to frequent fluctuation in soil properties and also Continuous mining by the crops from soils and higher amount of CaCO3 in these soil which get fix the native and applied phosphorous in soil, to enrich such agricultural field it can be supplemented by applying Phosphorous rich fertilizers to the soils. \r\nThe NIV of Available potassium reported that the soils from studied area were found under very high fertility status, such higher availability of potassium in soils might because of the K bearing minerals and high content of clay present in the soils.\r\nCorrelation of physicochemical characteristic with availability of Nutrients from soil orders Entisol and Vertisol of Ausa Tehsil. The data on correlation between Physico chemical properties with available nutrients status of Entisol and Vertisol of Ausa tehsil were depicted in (Table 4) Entisol and Vertisol soils from Ausa tehsil showed positive and significant correlation between physico chemical properties (pH, EC, OC and CaCO3) and available nutrients (N, P and K), respectively.\r\n','Kadam Dhiraj Madhav, Waghmare Mahesh Shivachandra, Lingayat Nagesh Radhakishan, Goswami Harish Giri, Chavan Nishigandha Satish and Kumawat Hemraj (2022). Soil Fertility Assessment of Entisol and Vertisol orders from Ausa Tehsil of Latur District. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 14(3): 90-94.'),(5229,'136','Effect of Nano Nitrogen in Conjunction with Urea on Growth and Yield of Mustard (Brassica juncea L.) in Northern Telangana Zone','Navya K.*, Sai Kumar R., Krishna Chaitanya A. and Sampath O.','16 Effect of Nano Nitrogen in Conjunction with Urea on Growth and Yield of Mustard (Brassica juncea L.) in Northern Telangana Zone Navya. K.pdf','',1,'Recently, Indian Farmers\' Fertilizer Cooperative Limited developed liquid Nano nitrogen to improve nutrient use efficiency and reduce cultivation costs and its substitute for urea to meet crop nitrogen requirements, particularly during critical growth stages. There is a lack of information on the location specific performance of nano-nitrogen fertilizer. Keeping in view of the facts a field experiment was planned and conducted at college farm, Agricultural College, Polasa, Jagtial, PJTSAU during rabi 2021-22 to evaluate the foliar application of nano nitrogen in combination with conventional urea on mustard in Northern Telangana zone conditions. The experiment was laid out with eight treatment combinations in randomized block design with three replications. Results showed that application of 100% recommended dose of nitrogen and 50 % RDN as basal +one Nano-N spray at before flowering at the rate of 1250 ml ha-1 recorded higher plant height, leaf area index, SPAD, dry matter accumulation and yield attributing characters of mustard.','Mustard, foliar spray of nano nitrogen, plant height, SPAD and seed yield','Considering the study\'s objectives and the results obtained after one season of experimentation, it was concluded that application of 100% recommended dose of nitrogen and 50% RDN as basal + 1 Nano-N spray at before flowering at the rate of 1250 ml ha-1 recorded highest crop growth parameters, yield, and yield attributing characters.','INTRODUCTION\r\nFertilizers play a critical role in increasing food production in developing countries, particularly after the introduction of high yielding and fertilizer responsive varieties. Despite of this, it is well known that yields of many crops have begun to decline as a result of imbalanced fertilization and a decrease in soil organic matter content. The use efficiencies of N, P, and K fertilizers have remained constant over the last few decades, at 30-35 per cent, 15-20 per cent, and 35-40 per cent, respectively, leaving a large percentage of applied fertilizer to accumulate in the soil or enter aquatic systems, causing eutrophication (NAAS, 2013).\r\nNitrogen plays very important role in various physiological process. Nitrogenous fertilizers, particularly urea accounts for more than 82 per cent of the nitrogenous fertilizers used for most of the crops. Every year, around 33 million tons of urea is applied to various crops. Urea imports have risen steadily throughout the years, reaching 9.12 M t in 2019-20 (FAI, 2019). To overcome this problem, fertilizer supply must be synchronized with crop demand, which has the potential to reduce nutrient losses while increasing nutrient efficiency. Nanotechnology has emerged as a viable tool to solve crop nutritional deficits by increasing nutrient bioavailability while minimizing environmental losses. Nanoscale materials can improve fertilizer use efficiency, whereas foliar application can effectively meet crop nutrient requirements.\r\nNano fertilizers have unique properties that improve plant performance in terms of ultra-high absorption, increased production, increased photosynthesis, and significant expansion of the leaf surface area. Furthermore, controlled nutrient release helps to prevent eutrophication and pollution of water resources. When traditional fertilizer is replaced with nano fertilizers, it releases nutrients into the soil steadily and in a controlled manner, preventing water pollution (Naderi and Danesh 2013; Moaveni and Kheiri 2011).\r\nNano nitrogen, developed by Indian Farmers Fertilizer Cooperative Limited (IFFCO), provides a novel alternative to easing farmers away from urea. Nano nitrogen contains nanoscale nitrogen particles (18-30 nm) which have more surface area (10,000 times over 1 mm urea prill) and number of particles (55,000 nitrogen particles over 1 mm urea prill). From experiments conducted by Yogendra Kumar et al. (2020), they conducted field trials on different crops reported that the foliar application of nano nitrogen at critical crop growth stages either alone or in combination with conventional urea increased crop yields and nutrient use efficiency. \r\nThere is a lack of information on the location specific performance of nano-nitrogen fertilizer; hereby it is proposed to evaluate the foliar application of nano nitrogen in combination with conventional urea and to compare its effect with that of conventionally applied urea under Northern Telangana Zone conditions, so that farmers in this region can have a viable and economically viable option for maintaining sustainable crop production with improved nitrogen use efficiency in mustard crop.\r\nMustard (Brassica juncea L.) belongs to the family of cruciferae. The seed contains 40-45 % oil and 20-25 % protein. The seed and oil of mustard are used as a condiment in the preparation of pickles, flavoring curries and vegetables as well as for cooking and frying purposes. Its oil is used in many industrial products, cakes, as cattle feed, and manure while the green leaves are used as vegetable and green fodder (Anup Das et al., 2018). \r\nRapeseed and Mustard is one of the most important oil seed crops of the world with production of 68.87 million metric tons (Statista Research Department, 2020). It is the second most important edible oilseed crop after groundnut in India (Mishra et al., 2019). In India it is cultivated in an area of 9.38 million hectares with an average production of 9.12 million tons with productivity of 1190 kg ha-1. As a rabi crop, mustard is grown on 2498.85 ha mostly in Northern Telangana Zone\'s Jagtial, Nizamabad, Nirmal, and Kamareddy districts. (Season and Crop Coverage Report Yasangi-2020-21). Keeping in view of the facts, an investigation on Effect of nano nitrogen in conjunction with urea on mustard (Brassica juncea L.) growth and yield In Northern Telangana Zone was undertaken during rabi, 2021-22.\r\nMETHODOLOGY \r\nThe present investigation was carried out at College Farm, Agricultural College, Jagtial, Professor Jayashankar Telangana State Agricultural University during rabi 2021-22 with an objective to evaluate the effect of nano nitrogen in conjunction with urea on mustard growth and yield under Northern Telangana Zone conditions. The experiment was laid out in randomized bock design with three replications. The experiment consisted of eight treatments viz; T1: Control (No Nitrogen) T2: 100% RDN T3: 50% RDN as basal +1 Nano-N spray (before flowering) @1250 ml ha-1 T4: 50% RDN as basal + 1 Nano-N spray(before flowering) @725 ml ha-1 T5: 50% RDN as basal + 2 Nano-N sprays (branching & before flowering) @ 725 ml ha-1 in two equal splits, T6: 50% RDN + 1 Urea spray ( before flowering) @ 2% 500 L ha-1 T7: 3 Nano-N sprays (vegetative, branching & before flowing ) @ each time 725 ml ha-1 T8: 3 urea sprays (vegetative, branching & before flowing) @ 2% each time 500 L ha-1.\r\nThe soil of the experiment field was sandy clay loam in texture. The variety under study was NRCHB-101 at a seed rate of around 5 kg ha-1 with spacing of 45 × 15 cm. The recommended dose of fertilizer for the mustard i.e., 60:40:40 Kg ha-1, urea (46% N), SSP (16 % P2O5), and MOP (60% K2O) were used as N, P & K fertilizers, respectively. Phosphorus, potassium, and half of the nitrogen dose were applied at the time of sowing of crop, with the remaining half dose applied during the flowering stage of mustard and the spray solution of nano nitrogen and urea were applied through foliar spray as per the treatment requirement and combinations. The data obtained analysed statistically by Analysis of Variance (Panse and Sukhatme 1967) utilizing Randomized Block Design. Statistical difference (CD) tested by applying F test at 0.05 level of probability.\r\nRESULTS AND DISCUSSION\r\nEffect of nano nitrogen and urea on crop growth parameters. The plant height, leaf area index, SPAD and dry matter of mustard at harvest as influenced by urea and nano nitrogen foliar application was presented in Table 1. The maximum plant height (168 cm) was recorded by application of 100% RDN which was statistically at par with 50% RDN as basal +1 Nano-N spray @1250 ml ha-1, 50% RDN as basal + 1 Nano-N spray @ 725 ml ha-1, 50% RDN as basal + 2 Nano-N sprays @ 725 ml ha-1, 50% RDN + 1 Urea spray @ 2% 500 L ha-1 and lowest were recorded in control(136 cm). Increase in plant height with application of 50% RDN as basal + 1 Nano-N spray @1250 ml ha-1may be because of large dose of nano-nitrogen fertilizer boosts the synthesis of auxins, which promotes cell division and elongation across the entire vegetative plant. This directly affects the plant\'s height and other growth-attributing traits. The results are in accordance with Al-Gym and Al-Asady (2020); Singh and Kumar (2017).\r\nLeaf area index at harvest was highest in 100% RDN (1.25) which was statistically at par with 50% RDN as basal +1 Nano-N spray @1250 ml ha-1 (1.16). However, 50 % RDN basal + nano and urea sprays were statistically significant over control. Application of 100% RDN recorded highest SPAD values compared to other nano and urea foliar application treatments and lowest recorded in control.\r\nThe dry matter increased with crop growth stage progression, reaching a peak at harvest. Different nitrogen levels and foliar sprays had a significant impact on plant dry matter accumulation. Highest dry matter accumulation was found in 100% recommended dose of nitrogen (4060 kg/ha) and among the nano nitrogen treatments application of 50% recommended dose of nitrogen + one foliar spray before flowering at the rate of @1250 ml ha-1recorded highest dry matter (3542 kg/ha) compared to other treatments. However, significantly lowest plant height, leaf area index, SPAD value and dry matter were recorded with control. \r\nWith the advancement of crop growth, it was observed that crop growth parameters such as plant height, leaf area index, and SPAD values increased consistently; however, at 15 DAS, they were not statistically significant. Among different treatments, crop growth parameters were highest when the recommended nitrogen dose was used in full. One application of nano nitrogen @ 1250ml/ha at the pre-flowering stage of 50 percent RDN as basal and foliar sprays produced higher crop growth parameters than nano nitrogen and urea applications at the rate of 725 ml/ha and 2 percent urea applications. Crop growth parameters could not be increased by additional foliar applications of nano nitrogen and urea solution with no basal nitrogen. However, recorded crop growth parameters are higher as compared to control. The two primary physiological processes responsible for growth are cell division and cell expansion. Nitrogen is an absolute necessity for these two. Nitrogen supplementation via soil application and foliar application most likely resulted in increased crop growth characters. Similar results have been also reported by Sai Kumar et al. (2022) found similar results in rice and Sumanta et al. (2022) in rabi maize. Raghuvanshi et al. (2018) also recorded that application of 120 kg ha-1 of nitrogen as basal and topdressing in two equal splits resulted in significantly higher crop growth parameters in mustard.\r\nEffect of nano nitrogen and urea on yield attributes and yield \r\nYield attributing characteristics. Data pertaining to yield attributes as influenced by nitrogen management practices were presented in Table 2. Among all the treatments highest number of siliquae plant-1 (143), number of filled seeds siliqua-1 (15) and test weight (5.20 g) was recorded in treatment (T2) with 100% RDN which was found to be significantly on par with the 50% RDN as basal +1 Nano-N spray @1250 ml ha -1 and lowest number of siliquae plant-1 (79.9), number of filled seeds siliqua-1 (7.30) and test weight (4.69g)was recorded with control (T1).\r\nThe test weights were found to be non-significant in all the nitrogen application levels. The increase in yield attributes was owing to increased availability of nutrients and adequate nitrogen supply enabled improved crop growth and development, increased nutritional content, and resulted in a considerable improvement in yield characteristics results are in accordance with Raghuvanshi et al. (2018).\r\nYield. The seed yield (Kg ha-1), stover yield (Kg ha-1) and harvest index as influenced by foliar application of urea and nano urea was presented in Fig. 1. The maximum seed yield ((1260 kg ha-1), stover yield (2800 Kg ha-1) and harvest index (31.0) were recorded by 100 % recommended dose of nitrogen application through urea. Among nano and urea sprays significantly higher seed, stover yield and harvest index was recorded with application of 50% RDN as basal +1 Nano-N spray @1250 ml ha-1. Among the nano sprays highest stover yield 2452 kg ha-1 was observed with 50% RDN as basal +1 Nano-N spray @1250 ml ha-1 this increase might be due the fact that nano fertilizers due to quick absorption by the plant and translocated at a faster rate which resulted in higher rate of photosynthesis and more dry matter accumulation. These findings agreed with reports of Tarafdar et al. (2014); Hafeez et al. (2015). However, the harvest index was found to be non-significant in all the nitrogen application levels. Yield improvement was primarily associated with the contribution of yield components attributing it. The positive influence of increased nitrogen utilization on yield attributing character is most likely the reason for the increase in mustard yield. These results are in conformity with Rajesh et al. (2021) in fodder oats and Velumurugan et al. (2021) in rice.\r\n','Navya K., Sai Kumar R., Krishna Chaitanya A. and Sampath O. (2022). Effect of Nano Nitrogen in Conjunction with Urea on Growth and Yield of Mustard (Brassica juncea L.) in Northern Telangana Zone. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 14(3): 95-99.'),(5230,'136','Morpho-Physiological Grouping of Indian Chickpea (Cicer arietinum L.) Genotypes Based on Terminal Drought Stress Response','Prakash N. Tiwari, Sharad Tiwari*, Swapnil Sapre, Keerti Tantwai, Sushma Nema, Anita Babbar, Vinod Kumar Sahu, Nishi Mishra and Satyendra Thakur','17 Morpho-Physiological Grouping of Indian Chickpea (Cicer arietinum L.) Genotypes Based on Terminal Drought Stress Response Prakash N. Tiwari.pdf','',1,'Drought is a serious constraint in limiting seed yield of chickpea. Identification of major seed yield limiting trait under drought conditions is critical to breed varieties for more drought resilience. This study was conducted for characterization of the chickpea genotypes on the basis of morpho-physiological responses under drought stress to select promising drought tolerant line. The set consisted of forty chickpea genotypes including released varieties, identified donors and the advanced breeding lines. A field experiment was conducted in randomized complete block design (RCBD) under normal and drought stressed conditions in Rabi season of 2020-21 and 2021-22. Morpho-physiological observations were recorded on relative water content (RWC), saturation water deficit (SWD), canopy temperature depression (CTD), chlorophyll content index (CCI), plant height (PH), number of primary branches (NPB), number of secondary branches (NSB), biological yield per plant and seed yield per plant of these chickpea genotypes. Data of both seasons were pooled for calculation of summary statistics including genetic parameters; inter correlation and path coefficient analysis. Genotypes performing better in drought stressed conditions can be used as drought tolerant lines for developing promising drought tolerant cultivars.','Morpho-physiological, drought stress, genetic parameters, correlation, path analysis','The genotypes JAKI9218, JG63, ICC4958, JG11, JG16, JG2018-51, JG17 and ICCV19616 had lower variability in studied traits under drought stress conditions and higher yield also, thus, are very promising chickpea genotypes to be utilized as drought tolerant donors. When breeding program needs to create variation for these studied traits, crossing of the genotypes of cluster II with cluster VI would be ideal. Crosses of such diverse parents will produce a broad range of variation for selection of the desirable traits. ','INTRODUCTION\r\nChickpea (Cicer arietinum L.) is a self-pollinating, diploid (2n=2x=16) pulse crop with a 738Mbp genome (Varshney et al., 2013). Chickpea seeds are a good source of carbohydrates and proteins for the vegetarian diets of resource-poor consumers. Globally chickpea covers 14.8 million ha (mha) area with an annual production of 15.1 million tons (FAO, 2021). In India, ‘Pulse Revolution’ is majorly contributed by chickpea to move the country towards self-sufficiency in pulses. An all-time high of 12.61 mt chickpea production recorded during 2020-21 (Dixit, 2021). \r\nDrought is being most detrimental abiotic stress by limiting production and productivity of crops more than other abiotic stresses (Shao et al., 2009). Drought mainly affects yield, membrane integrity, osmotic adjustment, pigment content and photosynthetic activity. In India, there has been substantial shift of region of chickpea cultivation from cooler Northern climatic conditions zones to hot southern Indian conditions limited to drought prone marginal and sub marginal tracts. That’s greatly affected chickpea yields of country over the past few years. Further, late onset of raining delayed chickpea sowing in rice fallows conditions and exposing chickpea to heat and drought stresses during reproductive stage as terminal heat and drought stresses (Sachdeva et al., 2017). \r\nThe crop responses to various abiotic stresses are complex involving morpho-physiological, biochemical and gene regulatory mechanisms for drought resilience. Thus, this study was conducted for characterization of the chickpea genotypes on the basis of morpho-physiological responses under drought stress to select promising drought tolerant line.\r\nMATERIAL AND METHOD\r\nThe experimental material consists of 40 chickpea genotypes including released varieties, identified donar and advance breeding lines (Table 1). The research trial was laid out in RCBD with three replications during rabi seasons 2020-21 and 2021-22 at field of Biotechnology center, Jawaharlal Nehru Krishi Vishwa Vidyalaya, Jabalpur. Three row of 1 m length was planted for each genotype with 10 cm of plant to plant and 45 cm of row to row distance. Standard agronomical practices have been implemented to maintain ten numbers of plants in each row. \r\nFive evocative plants are carefully chosen from each line for recording the observations on chlorophyll content index (CCI), plant height (PH), number of primary branches (NPB), number of secondary branches (NSB), biological yield per plant and seed yield per plant. Relative water content was calculated according Sachdeva et al. (2017). Saturation Water Deficit was calculated by subtracting RWC from 100. Canopy temperature depression was calculated by subtracting canopy temperature of plant from air temperature. Statistical analysis of pooled data of both seasons was done by using Window Stat 9.1 software. Genetic diversity was calculated using Mahalanobis’s D2 (Mahalanobis’s, 1936) while and clustering of genotypes was conducted according to Tocher’s method (Rao, 1952).\r\nRESULTS AND DISCUSSION\r\nIn India, chickpea is third most important legume crop occupying 45% of total pulse production. Drought and heat both limit chickpea production critically. The mean of the studied characters indicate presence of moderate amount of variation in the tested genotypes. on the basis of pooled data analysis of both seasons, RWC, SWD, CTD, CCI, PH, NPB, NSB, biological yield per plant and seed yield per plant of the forty genotypes were recorded. \r\nUnder normal condition, the average RWC value was recorded 73.5 + -4.6 with range from 65.2 to 79.5, mean SWD was found 31.7 + -6.3 with range from 20.6 to 43.0, mean CTD was obtained 3.3+- 0.4 with range from 2.6 to 4.0, mean CCI was observed 58.8 + -2.0 with range from 55.5 to 62.5, PH was recorded 50.9 + - 4.7 with range from 38.7 to 58.2 cm, mean NPB was recorded 3.0 + -0.2 with range from 2.6 to 3.6, mean NSB was found 8.5 + -0.8 with range from 7.5 to 10.3, mean biological per plant was observed 34.4 + -4.7 g with range from 25.5 g to 48.0 g and mean seed yield per plant was recorded 13.7 + -1.8 g with range from 11.7 to 21.7 g (Table 2).\r\nUnder drought stress situations, the mean RWC value was recorded 68.3 + - 6.3 with range from 57.0 to 79.4, mean SWD was found 31.7 + - 6.3 with range from 20.6 to 43.0, mean CTD was obtained 1.7 + - 0.3 with range from 1.1 to 2.2, mean CCI was observed 54.8 + -2.1 with range from 51.2 to 58.9, PH was obtained 45.3 + - 4.5 with range from 33.5 to 51.5 cm, mean NPB was recorded 2.5 + -0.2 with range from 2.0 to 3.1, mean NSB was found 7.4+-0.7 with range from 6.6 to 9.3, mean biological per plant was observed 23.5 + -3.8 g with range from 17.4 g to 33.9 g and mean seed yield per plant was recorded 8.9 + -0.7 g with range from 6.1 to 9.9 g (Table 3).\r\nThe dendrogram based on Tocher clustering grouped the forty tested genotypes into ten major clusters (Table 4, Fig. 1). The largest cluster, cluster I comprised of 13 genotypes (ICCV15118, JG2016-1411, JG32, JG24, JG33, JG28, JG2016-921814, ICCV181664, JG2016-45, ICCV15102, JG2003-14-16, JG2016-9651 and JG2021-1617) followed by cluster II, III and IV consisted with 9 (JAKI9218, JG63, ICC4958, JG11, JG16, JG2018-51, JG17, ICCV19616), 6 (JG42, JG28, JG2022-74, JG2016-36, JG2016-1614, JG2016-44) and 6 (JG14, JG74, JG226, JG2016-45) genotypes, respectively. Rest six clusters comprised with single-single genotypes (JG2021-6301, JG2021-1424, JG36, JG2016-74315, PG205, JG2016-634958 respectively). \r\nBharadwaj et al. (2001) suggested that phenotypic and/or genotypic diversity per se is an inferential criterion so should not be used as as a direct measure of genetic diversity. It is may not be more useful for selecting the genotypes as parents for breeding program, generally done by most breeders. Numerous clustering techniques have been utilized by different researchers to quantify the genetic diversity in a given set of germplasm/ genotypes on the basis of collected data (Bharadwaj et al., 2011; Sachdeva et al., 2017; Katkani et al., 2022).\r\nTocher clustering could clearly delineate the drought tolerant chickpea genotypes from the susceptible genotypes. In this study, Tocher clustering clearly grouped most drought tolerant genotypes into cluster II (JAKI9218, JG63, ICC4958, JG11, JG16, JG2018-51, JG17, ICCV19616) and discriminated from drought sensitive genotypes which were grouped into cluster VI (JG14, JG74, JG226, JG2016-45). Rest clusters contained with moderately drought tolerant chickpea genotypes. Sachdeva et al. (2017) also grouped chickpea genotypes on the basis of morpho-physiological traits dendrogram and found that Cluster IIa contained with most drought tolerant genotypes viz., ICC4958, ICCV10313, ICCV10 and ICCV97309 while cluster I and cluster III had the most susceptible chickpea genotypes. The clustering pattern of genotypes clearly depicted that considerable amount of diversity was present in the utilized material of study. This could be due to differential selection executed by breeders for selection of seed yield attributing and other traits which have been considered as genetic drift because of selection (Murty and Arunachalam 1966).\r\nFurther, the intra and inter cluster Mahalanobis D2 values depicted wide range of intra cluster distance from 0.00 to 12.29 (Table 5). Cluster III demonstrated highest intra cluster D2 mean value (D2 = 12.29) followed by Cluster II (D2 = 10.14), Cluster IV (D2 = 9.80) and Cluster I (9.13), whereas remaining six clusters (Cluster V, VI, VII, VIII, IX and X) revealed zero value for Intra cluster distance due to having single genotype in each cluster. These monogenotypic clusters represented minimum diversity for the present study. The maximum inter cluster divergence distance was depicted between genotypes of Cluster II and Cluster IV (56.04) representing their highest suitability for utilizing in crossing programme. Outcomes of the study clearly specified the remarkable possibilities of incorporation of allelic resources existing in these genotypes by using a systematic breeding program. \r\nThe mean of clusters for all studied traits in pooled data analysis are presented in (Table 6). Cluster IX (77.6) revealed highest mean for RWC while Cluster V was found with minimum cluster mean (61.44). Maximum SWD was recorded for Cluster V (38.56) while minimum SWD was observed in Cluster IX (22.40). Highest CTD was depicted by Cluster II (2.08) whereas lowest SWD was found in Cluster IV (1.12). Utmost superior CCI was demonstrated by Cluster Cluster IX while utmost inferior value recorded from Cluster VIII. Tallest plants were showed by Cluster VI (47.67) with shortest plants in Cluster V (33.50). Maximum NPB was recorded in Cluster XI (3.13) with minimum NPB in Cluster V (2.17). Highest NSB found in Cluster V (8.40) with lowest NSB in Cluster VI (7.02). Utmost high biological yield per plant (33.87 g) were noted down in Cluster VII while utmost low biological yield per plant (20.83 g) were noted in Cluster VIII. Maximum seed yield per plant was demonstrated by Cluster IX (9.50 g), while minimum was observed in Cluster VI with 8.13 g mean value. These findings approved in earlier research of Tiwari and Babbar (2017); Gediya et al. (2018); Ponnuru et al. (2019); Dar et al. (2020); Janghel (2020); Boparai et al. (2021); Katkani et al. (2022); Biswal et al. (2022). \r\n','Prakash N. Tiwari, Sharad Tiwari, Swapnil Sapre, Keerti Tantwai, Sushma Nema, Anita Babbar, Vinod Kumar Sahu, Nishi Mishra and Satyendra Thakur (2022). Morpho-Physiological Grouping of Indian Chickpea (Cicer arietinum L.) Genotypes Based on Terminal Drought Stress Response. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 14(3): 100-106.'),(5231,'136','Sensory and Consumer Acceptability of Mushroom Powder Incorporated Products','Ch. Anusha*, T. Kamalaja, E. Jyothsna, S. Triveni and M. Prameela','18 Sensory and Consumer Acceptability of Mushroom Powder Incorporated Products Ch. Anusha.pdf','',1,'The present study was conducted with the main objective to determine the sensory and consumer acceptance of two value added products i.e., cake and toffee developed by incorporating the mushroom (Pleurotus Hypsizygus ulmarius) powder. Mushroom powder was incorporated in cake formulation by replacing refined wheat flour at various proportions (0-30%) i.e., 10, 15, 20, 25 and 30% on dry weight basis. While, toffee formulations were prepared by replacing papaya pulp at various proportions (0-15%) i.e., 3, 5, 10 and 15% on dry weight. Organoleptic evaluation was conducted to evaluate the sensory profile of the formulated products. Best accepted formulation from two products were subjected to consumer acceptability by untrained panelists (n=80). Sensory scores revealed that cake formulated by incorporating 20% mushroom powder and toffee formulated by incorporating 10% mushroom powder scored high for sensorial characteristics and were acceptable by all the consumers during consumer acceptability study. Nutritionally, mushroom incorporated food products can highly contribute to tackle protein malnutrition and other micronutrient deficiencies, as well as acting as a novel food fortification strategy.','Mushroom powder, cake, toffee, sensory evaluation, consumer acceptability','In this study, different levels of mushroom powder were incorporated for production of nutritionally enriched products and were investigated for sensory and consumer acceptability. From the results it was found that, cake formulated with 20% mushroom flour and toffee formulated with 10% mushroom flour scored high in overall acceptability compared to other formulations. It was also observed that most of the consumers prefer both the accepted products (Mushroom powder-incorporated cake and toffee). This study will encourage food industry to use mushroom powder for improving nutritional and sensory quality of the products, which in turn may pave way for improvement of the overall nutritional status of the vulnerable groups. ','INTRODUCTION\r\nThe food habits of the world\'s population have changed dramatically due to alarming rates of non-communicable diseases over the past two decades. People prefer dietary management of such diseases to costly medicinal drugs with potential side effects. As a result, the demand for health-promoting or functional foods has increased rapidly in recent years. Edible mushrooms formerly known as \"food of the gods,\" (Utpal et al., 2015) are still used as a garnish or delicacy, can now be consumed on a regular basis as part of the human diet or as functional food. Historically, mushrooms have been valued for their flavour, economics, ecological value, and medicinal properties (Sanchez, 2010). On a dry basis, mushrooms contain almost 50% carbohydrate, 25% protein, and 3% crude fat (Kotwaliwale et al., 2007). \r\nThe low calories, sodium, fat and cholesterol in mushrooms make them a healthy food. Additionally, it contains significant amounts of dietary fiber and β-glucan, vitamin D, vitamin B complex and many other nutrients that can be beneficial for the body (Dunkwal et al., 2007). The modern science of nutrition has moved to understanding the physiological and genetic mechanisms by which the diet and individual food components influence health and diseases (Akinwunmi and Omotayo 2016). It is true that most processed foods do provide some nutritional value, developing a healthy processed foods provide acceptable nutritional composition and a great sensory experience to the consumers (Martins et al., 2017). Therefore, the aim of the present study was to develop a novel variety of cake and toffee enriched with incorporation of mushroom powder and investigate sensory and consumer acceptance of mushroom powder incorporated products.\r\nMATERIALS AND METHOD\r\nThe present study was conducted in the department of foods and nutrition, Post Graduate and Research Centre, Professor Jayashankar Telangana State Agricultural University, Rajendranagar, Hyderabad.\r\nPreparation of mushroom powder: Fresh mushrooms were collected from the mushroom cultivation scheme, Department of Plant Pathology, College of Agriculture, PJTSAU, Rajendranagar. Mushroom powder was prepared according to the method developed by Kumar et al. (2019). In brief, collected mushrooms were cleaned, cut into slices, blanched for 3 minutes later dried in tray drier at 60° until constant moisture level was reached (10%). The dried mushrooms were ground into fine powder and stored in plastic containers further used for product development.\r\nProduct Development:\r\nPreparation process for cakes: The cakes were prepared by partial replacement of refined wheat flour with mushroom powder at different proportions i.e., 0, 10, 15, 20 25 and 30%. \r\nAll weights of refined wheat flour, mushroom flour and other ingredients (sugar, milk powder, oil, baking soda, salt and essence) for all the formulations were taken accurately and mixed thoroughly. The mixture was poured into the mould and baked in the preheated oven at the temperature 140° for 30 minutes.\r\nPreparation process for toffee: The toffees were formulated by partial replacement of papaya pulp with mushroom flour at different proportions i.e., 0, 3, 5, 10 and 15%. \r\nBriefly, Papaya pulp was heated until the raw smell goes off. Mushroom flour, sugar, glucose was added and allowed to cook until it reaches to 80˚ brix. \r\nSensory Evaluation of the formulated products: Sensory evaluation was conducted for selecting the best accepted formulation from the developed products (cake and toffee) using 9-points hedonic scale (Meilgaard et al., 1999) with the help of 25 semi trained panelists.\r\nConsumer acceptability of the mushroom products: Both the accepted products were subjected to consumer acceptability. Consumer acceptance of the mushroom incorporated products were assessed by using structured questionnaire and sensory evaluation developed by Lawless and Heymann (2010) along with sensory evaluation. A total of 80 untrained members of different age groups (6-40 years) were selected randomly to determine the consumer acceptance and perceptions toward mushroom incorporated food products.\r\nStatistical Analysis: Statistical analysis was carried out by one-way ANOVA method using INDOSTAT statistical software for finding out the best accepted formulations and for consumer acceptability of mushroom incorporated products. \r\nRESULTS AND DISCUSSION\r\nSensory scores for the developed products: Sensory quality of any developed food product depends on its appearance, colour, flavour, taste, texture and overall acceptability (Sheikh et al., 2010). Cakes formulated by incorporating 0,10, 15, 20, 25 and 30% mushroom powder on dry weight basis and toffees formulated by incorporating 0, 3, 5, 10 and 15% mushroom powder were subjected to sensory evaluation. The mean sensory scores of mushroom incorporated cakes and toffees were tabulated in the Table 2 and Table 3. \r\nCake: Table 2 revealed that, statistically significant difference (P<0.01) in texture and overall acceptability was observed statistically between the cake samples. Among all the five formulated cakes, 20% mushroom incorporated cake was found higher for overall acceptability and was selected as the best accepted formulation for carrying out the consumer acceptability study.\r\nA similar study conducted by Arora et al. (2017) reported that cake with 20% wheat flour replacement with mushroom powder was closely related in sensorial attributes with control sample.\r\nToffee: Table 3 revealed that, statistically significant difference (P<0.01) was found in colour, taste, texture and overall acceptability between the formulated toffees. Toffee with 10% mushroom powder incorporated had the highest overall acceptability score compared to other formulations. Hence, toffee with 10% mushroom powder incorporated was selected as the best accepted formulation for carrying out the consumer studies.\r\nConsumer acceptance of mushroom incorporated products: Many factors influence consumer acceptance of food products, including the characteristics of the offered product, consumer characteristics, and social conditions. Price, convenience, taste, general appearance, and health-promoting properties of a food product all play a role in its acceptance by consumers. Furthermore, consumer characteristics such as approach to innovation, preferences for specific food groups, or nutritional neophobia heavily influence food acceptance. Food preferences differ across age groups in terms of food knowledge, views on the health benefits of specific food groups, and attitudes toward food. Social conditions, such as the country\'s economy, political conditions, or generally accepted social norms, also influence consumer acceptance.\r\nHowever, consumer acceptance of the mushroom incorporated products was assessed through structured questionnaire and sensory evaluation. The respondents were asked about the snacking pattern, frequency of consumption and selection of snacks etc. The detailed were presented in Table 1.\r\nConsumer preference towards the mushroom incorporated (Cake and Toffee) were illustrated in the Fig. 1, 2.\r\nFig. 1 clearly depicted that, in terms of cake`s appearance, 8.5 % consumers liked moderately, 55.3% liked very much and 36.2% liked extremely. 12.8% liked colour of the cake moderately, the majority of consumers (44.7%) liked the colour very much, and 42.6% liked cake`s colour extremely. In terms of taste, 10.6% liked it moderately, 38.3 % liked very much and 51.1 % liked extremely. 10.6% liked flavour of the cake moderately, majority of consumers (48.9%) liked the flavour of the cake very much and 40.4 % liked extremely. In terms of texture, 6.4% liked moderately, 55.3 % of consumers liked the cake\'s texture very much and 38.3% liked extremely. In terms of overall acceptability, only 2.1 % liked the cake slightly, 8.5% who liked moderately followed by 42.6 % who liked very much and majority of consumers (46.8%) liked cake extremely.\r\nFig. 2 clearly revealed that, toffee\'s colour was liked moderately by 2.1%, 36.2 % liked very much and 61.7% of consumers liked colour of the toffee extremely. In terms of toffee`s taste, 2.1% of consumers liked moderately, 38% liked very much and majority of the consumer 57.4% liked toffee`s taste extremely. Toffee\'s flavour, texture, and overall acceptability were liked moderately by 8.5%, 4.3% and 2.1%, very much by 36.2%, 36.2% and 44.7%, and extremely by 55.3%, 59.6% and 53.2% of consumers.\r\n \r\n','Ch. Anusha, T. Kamalaja, E. Jyothsna, S. Triveni and M. Prameela (2022). Sensory and Consumer Acceptability of Mushroom Powder Incorporated Products. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 14(3): 107-110.'),(5232,'136','Survey on the Status of Sheath Rot Disease Complex in Major Rice Growing Districts of Telangana State','M. Manasa, T. Kiran Babu, S. Ameer Basha, N. Rama Gopala Varma \r\nand S.N.C.V.L. Pushpavalli\r\n','19 Survey on the Status of Sheath Rot Disease Complex in Major Rice Growing Districts of Telangana State M. Manasa.pdf','',1,'Rice sheath rot is an emerging fungal disease which is majorly caused by Sarocladium oryzae, spreading over rice-growing areas of Telangana state and causing an estimated yield losses ranging from 3-85 % depending upon the severity of the disease. Roving surveys were undertaken during kharif, 2021 to determine the status and distribution of the sheath rot in major rice growing districts of Telangana state viz., Nirmal, Jagtial, Nizamabad, Peddapalli, Kamareddy and Karimnagar districts of Northern Telangana Zone, Nalgonda, Suryapet, Nagarkurnool and Mahabubnagar districts in Southern Telangana Zone and Medak, Sangareddy, Siddipet, Warangal and Khammam districts in Central Telangana Zone. The sheath rot was widespread in all the locations at varying proportions. Sheath rot incidence (%) in the surveyed fields ranging from 3.0 to 37.7 per cent. The highest incidence (37.7%) was recorded in Nagarkurnool district, whereas the lowest incidence (3.0%) in Nalgonda district. Out of 84 samples were collected during survey, 40 isolates of sheath rot causing pathogen was isolated. The cultural, morphological, pathological characterisation and molecular identification revealed that, 38 fungal cultures were belongs to S. oryzae and two cultures belong to Fusarium proliferatum causing sheath rot disease in Telangana state.','Sheath rot disease, Sarocladiumoryzae, Fusarium proliferatum, Per cent Disease Incidence','The present study concludes that generally sheath rot disease of rice is present in almost all the surveyed rice fields with variable disease incidence. Highest Percent Disease incidence was recorded in the sample/Isolate SO79 collected from Nagarkurnool district. Nalgonda and Nagarkurnool are among the predominant areas with respect to sheath rot disease of rice. S. oryzae and F. proliferatum are responsible for causing sheath rot disease of rice in Telangana. Majority of the farmers are growing fine grain varieties which are highly susceptible to sheath rot in farmer fields. The yield of fine grain varieties was significantly affected due to sheath rot especially grain discolouration drastically reduce the market value of the produce. In continuation of the survey work, the samples collected during survey will be identified based on molecular basis. Further, proceed for proving pathogenicity of the isolates.','INTRODUCTION\r\nRice is the second most important staple food crop of the world consumed by more than half of the world\'s population. Asian continent itself accounting for 90% of the world production (IRRI, 2019). China is the leading rice producer followed by India, Indonesia and Bangladesh. The estimated area, yield and production of rice crop in the world is 162.46 million ha, 4.63 metric tonnes per ha and 504.17 million metric tonnes respectively, during 2020-21. Globally, India accounts for 27.08 % and 23.99 % of the total acreage and production. In Telangana, rice is mostly cultivated under wells, tanks and canals in an area of around 129.78 lakh acres during kharif and rabi, 2021-22. The crop is grown in 41.85 lakh acres during kharif, 2021, whereas 52.80 lakh acres during rabi, 2020-21 (Department of agriculture). A remarkable increase in rice area was recorded during 2020-21 in Telangana state is due to increased irrigation facilities, availability of high yielding varieties and farmer pro-government policies.\r\nAlthough, the crop suffers from many diseases caused by fungi, bacteria, virus, nematodes and other parasites. Among the fungal diseases, sheath rot once a minor and geographically limited disease is becoming major threat and gained momentum in many parts of the world (Bigirimana et al., 2015) as well as in India (Saravanakumar et al., 2009). It is a serious menace to rice cultivation and considered as an important emerging rice production threat causing yield losses ranging from 3-85% depending upon disease severity (Chakravarthy and Biswas 1978) and complete suppression of panicle exertion (Raina and Singh 1980).\r\nSheath rot of rice is a complex disease that can be caused by various fungal and bacterial pathogens depending on the area, varieties grown, prevailing environmental conditions, farming systems and involvement of other insect-pests. The major pathogen associated with sheath rot in rice are Sarocladium oryzae, Fusarium fujikuroi complex and Pseudomonas fuscovaginae (Bigirimana et al., 2015)., Recently, Albifimbria terrestris from northern India (Sharma et al., 2021) and Fusarium proliferatum from eastern India (Prabhukarthikeyan et al., 2021) have been reported incausing sheath rot, grain discolouration, sterility and chaffiness of therice panicles. The various described sheath rot pathogens will cause similar disease symptoms in rice (Cottyn et al., 1996). Although, several pathogens have been associated with rice sheath rot, but Sarocladium oryzae (sawada W. Gams and D. Hawksw) is a major important seed borne fungal pathogen reported in India. \r\n Sheath rot pathogen infects upper most flag leaf sheath that enclose the emerging young panicles during the boot leaf stage. The major symptoms of sheath rot according to Ou, (1985), the lesions are oblong or irregular oval spot and usually expressed as reddish-brown discoloration of flag leaf sheath. Early infection affects the panicles, so that it partially emerges. The un-emerged portion of the panicle rots, turning florets red-brown to dark brown. Grains from damaged panicles are chaffy and the disease is appropriately known as \"empty earhead\" and is familiar as \"rice abortion\" (Kindo, 2012) and it affects seed viability, nutritional and market value (Sakthivel, 2001; Gopalakrishnan et al., 2010). The symptoms of Fusarium proliferatum is more or less similar to the symptoms caused by Sarocladiumoryzae. However, little information is available on the prevalence and distribution of the disease in Telangana state. Hence, the present investigation was undertaken to study the disease distribution during kharif, 2021 by following a survey of major rice growing districts of Telangana state.\r\nMATERIALS AND METHODS\r\nA. Collection of diseased/infected plant samples\r\nA roving survey was conducted to collect sheath rot infected plant samples from major rice growing areas of Northern Telangana Zone (Nirmal, Jagtial, Nizamabad, Peddapalli, Kamareddy and Karimnagar), Southern Telangana Zone (Nalgonda, Suryapet, Nagarkurnool and Mahabubnagar) and Central Telangana Zone (Medak, Sangareddy, Siddipet, Warangal and Khammam) of Telangana state during kharif, 2021. Survey data collected includes crop and field details such as sample number, name of the village, mandal and district, field location, variety grown, crop stage, previous crop, source of irrigation, panicle type and percent disease incidence (PDI) of sheath rot disease.\r\nInfected plant samples were collected for isolation of sheath rot pathogen Sarocladium oryzae. The external signs and symptoms such as the presence of reddish-brown oblong lesions or irregular oval spots on flag leaf sheath were used to determine the incidence of the sheath rot disease in the fields surveyed. Five plots measuring 1 m × 1 m were selected such that one plot was in the centre of the field and the rest were randomly placed on the four corners leaving 1 m from the border.\r\nThe total number of productive tillers were counted in each plant and then counted the number of sheath rot infected panicles and finally computed the sheath rot incidence percentage. Ten plants were randomly selected per one sq. m area and above procedure followed to obtain sheath rot disease incidence percentage. Percent disease incidence was calculated by the following formula:\r\n Number of infected tillers\r\n PDI = Total number of tillers observed\r\nIsolation of sheath rot associated pathogen\r\nThe leaves showing the typical symptoms of sheath rot were selected and washed with sterile distilled water. Small piece of diseased tissue along with some healthy tissue was cut with the help of a sterile scalpel and surface sterilized with 0.1% sodium hypochlorite solution for one min, rinsed thrice in sterile distilled water and dried with sterilized filter paper. The surface sterilized samples were placed on Potato Dextrose Agar (PDA) medium with the help of sterilized forceps and placed in BOD incubator at 28±2 ºC. The pathogens were isolated from the infected tissue and further purified by hyphal tip method (Lilly and Barnett 1951). Sheath rot associated pathogen was identified based on cultural and morphological characters of the isolated fungi.\r\nRESULTS AND DISCUSSION\r\nA roving survey was conducted to collect the information on occurrence of sheath rot in major rice growing areas of Northern Telangana Zone (Nirmal, Jagtial, Nizamabad, Peddapalli, Kamareddy and Karimnagar), Southern Telangana Zone (Nalgonda, Suryapet, Nagarkurnool and Mahabubnagar) and Central Telangana Zone (Medak, Sangareddy, Siddipet, Warangal and Khammam) of Telangana state during kharif, 2021. The roving survey was carried out in 72 villages of fifteen major rice growing districts of Telangana state. A total of 84 samples were collected during survey. The data was collected on GPS coordinates, varietal pattern, disease incidence along with district, mandal and village. The data regarding the survey was tabulated in the (Table 1).\r\nData collected during the survey indicated that majority of the farmers opted for mono-cropping of rice in total surveyed districts except in the Nagarkurnool district where groundnut crop was grown in one season (during rabi) and rice crop was grown in another season (during kharif). 50% of the farmers in the surveyed villages were cultivating the MTU1010 and BPT5204 rice varieties. \r\nFields were majorly irrigated through canals in Nalgonda and Suryapet and remaining districts through borewells tabulated in Table 1. \r\nDuring the survey, stage of the rice crop was milky to mature stage. The maximum sheath rot incidence was observed in the surveyed fields were seen at mature stage of the rice crop. Percent disease incidence of sheath rot in the surveyed fields ranging from 3.0 to 37.7 per cent. The highest incidence of sheath rot (37.7%) was noticed at Lingala village of Achampetmandal of Nagarkurnool district followed by Jalalpur village of Bhoodan Pochampallimandal of Nalgonda district and Thatipally village, Jagtialmandal of Jagtial district with a disease incidence of (33.33%) while the lowest incidence (3%) was recorded in Pendlipakala village, Kondamallepally mandal of Nalgonda district followed by Navipet village, Ghanpurmandal of Medak district. Out of 84, samples of sheath rot, forty six samples from fine grain varieties and thirty eight samples from coarse grain varieties of rice. The maximum sheath rot incidence was noticed in fine grain varieties range from (10.5 to 37.7%) when compared to coarse grain varieties range from (3.0 to 33.0 %) indicating that most of the fine grain varieties were having compact nature of the panicle favouring the sheath rot disease initiation. Majority of the rice area in Telangana during kharif, 2021 was under fine grain varieties where sheath rot disease affected the farmer fields drastically. If the fine grain varieties cultivation occupies 60-70% of the total cultivated rice area in Telangana, the yield losses estimated to be nearly 60%. Among the 84 samples were collected from farmer fields in different villages 9 data points were showing the severe (25-70%) incidence, 67 data points showed moderate (6-25%) incidence and 8 data points showed less (0-5%) incidence of sheath rot disease (Fig. 1). Bar graph was drawn with varied PDI and total samples which is represented in Fig. 2.\r\nSimilar findings were reported by Kumar & Priya (2016), Vengadeshkumar et al. (2019). Kumar et al. (2017) reported highest incidence of sheath rot was recorded in Orathur (30.5) village and the least incidence was noticed in Vennankuzhi (12.1) village of Tamil Nadu state. Vengadeshkumar et al. (2019) reported the disease incidence ranged from 12.32 to 30.43 per cent in Nagapattinam district of Tamil Nadu state. \r\n \r\nIdentification of Sarocladium oryzae was done based on the cultural and morphological characterstics such as colony colour varied from white to pale orange. Pigmentation on the bottom of the plate varied from white to brown. Conidiophores were simple or branched. Conidia was cylindrical, aseptate and hyaline, 4-7 x 1-2 µm in size, and arranged in slimy heads (Bigirimana, 2016) (Fig. 3). Identification of Fusarium proliferatum was done based on the cultural and morphological characterstics such as the colonies produced white aerial mycelium with violet to pink pigmentation. Hyphae was hyaline and septate. Abundant single celled, oval shaped microconidia were produced, whereas macroconidia was not produced (Prabhukartikeyan et al., 2021) (Fig. 4). Finally, 38 isolates of Sarocladium oryzae and 2 isolates of Fusarium proliferatum were obtained from infected rice leaf sheaths. The two Fusarium isolates were obtained from sample no SO26 and SO72. ','M. Manasa, T. Kiran Babu, S. Ameer Basha, N. Rama Gopala Varma and S.N.C.V.L. Pushpavalli (2022). Survey on the Status of Sheath Rot Disease Complex in Major Rice Growing Districts of Telangana State. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 14(3): 111-117.'),(5233,'136','Influence of Edible Coatings to Enhance the Postharvest Quality of Passion Fruit (Passiflora edulis Sims.) under Cold Storage conditions','Mohamed Jassim J.*, Prem Joshua J.*, Saraswathy S., Muthuramalingam S., Anitha T. and Vani V.','20 Influence of Edible Coatings to Enhance the Postharvest Quality of Passion Fruit (Passiflora edulis Sims.) under Cold Storage Conditions Mohamed Jassim J.pdf','',4,'The postharvest quality of passion fruit deteriorates rapidly because of intense physiological metabolism and serious water loss which leads to shrinkage in passion fruit. In this context, the experiment was carried out to evaluate the effect of edible coatings Aloe vera gel (50 %, 75 %), Gum arabic (10 %, 15 %), Chitosan (1 %, 2 %), Sodium alginate (1 %, 2 %) and Carboxy methyl cellulose (1 %, 1.5 %) to enhance the postharvest quality of passion fruit under cold storage (8±1 °C) conducted at Horticultural College and Research Institute, Periyakulam, Theni. Results indicated that the passion fruit coated with chitosan (2 %) recorded minimum weight loss (19.53 %) and maximum titratable acidity (3.68 %), ascorbic acid (19.81 mg 100 g-1), firmness (15.21 N) and shelf life of about 26.5 days compared to control. Consequently, Chitosan (2 %) is effective for extending the shelf life and maintaining the postharvest quality of passion fruit at 8±1°C by regulating water loss and physiological metabolism.','Passion fruit, cold storage, Aloe vera gel, Gum arabic, Chitosan, Sodium alginate and Carboxy methyl cellulose','The synergistic effect of postharvest edible coatings and cold storage conditions significantly influenced the physiological loss in weight, firmness, titratable acidity, ascorbic acid and shelf life. Compared to all the treatments, passion fruit coated with chitosan (2 %) up to 25 days recorded minimum weight loss (19.53 %), maximum titratable acidity (3.68 %), Ascorbic acid (19.81 mg 100 g-1) and firmness (15.21 N). Maximum shelf life of 26.5 days was also observed in Chitosan (2 %) treated fruits compared to control which had a minimum shelf life of about eighteen days. ','INTRODUCTION\r\nPassion fruit (Passiflora edulis Sims.) is a native of Brazil in the Tropical American region and it belongs to the Passifloraceae family. It was first introduced to India in the early twentieth century in the Nilgiris, Coorg and Malabar regions of Southern India. It is generally grown in tropical and subtropical regions of the world, ranging from South America to Australia, Asia, and Africa. Recently, Passion fruit is under cultivation in an area of 12.0 thousand ha in India, with a production of 76.0 thousand MT (NHB, 2020). It is a woody, climbing, perennial vine that bears round or ovoid fruits. The rind of the fruits is stiff, smooth, and waxy, with a faint, small white flecks. The fruit has an orange pulpy liquid with a high quantity of small, firm, dark brown to black pitted seeds (Tripathi, 2018).\r\nFruits are almost round to oval in shape, with a strong peel that is smooth and waxy and weighs approximately 60 to 80 g in purple passion fruit and bear on woody perennial vines (Thokchom & Mandal 2017). The juice taste is delicious, has great flavour and have an excellent source of Vitamin A (1300-2500 IU 100 g-1 pulp), vitamin C (30–50 mg 100 g-1 pulp), and minerals like potassium, sodium, magnesium, sulphur, and chlorides are abundant in fruits. Passion fruit is high in natural phenolic compounds, which have been shown to protect against oxidative damage (Joy and Divya 2016).\r\nPostharvest quality of passion fruit is mostly determined by harvest time and storage conditions. Moisture loss, peel colour darkening, microbial infection and nutritional loss are the main causes of postharvest degradation. These are the factors which contribute to the unappealing appearance of fresh fruits, which include wrinkles, unappealing colour, postharvest deterioration and nutritional deficiency. It is classified physiologically as climacteric fruit due to its respiratory properties, ethylene production, climacteric increase and specific responses. Its quality and appearance decline over time and the fruit begins to dehydrate shortly after harvest. During ripening, an increase in respiration rate is driven by a high level of ethylene production. The fruit becomes unmarketable as a result of this degradation. Appropriate storage temperature and postharvest treatment are critical aspects in maintaining the quality of diverse horticulture commodities, as well as prolonging storage life while ensuring product safety.\r\nAfter harvesting, fruit losses are estimated at around 18 to 28 %. The losses will then continue to grow throughout the trading process. Applying an edible coating to the fruit can help to reduce postharvest losses (Nor and Ding 2020). Fruit coating works on the same principle as modified atmosphere packaging, in which an altered atmosphere is formed in the headspace with high CO2 content and a low O2 concentration (Blakistone, 1999).\r\nThere are a variety of post-harvest coatings available for important fruits such as bananas, mangoes, pineapples, and avocados that can effectively extend the shelf-life, minimise water loss, reduce chilling damage and reduce post-harvest disease. Coatings for minor fruits such as durian, rambutan, passion fruit and mangosteen are still scarce and are done from lipid and protein-based coatings. Therefore, the current study was carried out to investigate the influence of edible coatings to enhance the postharvest quality of passion fruit.\r\nMATERIALS AND METHODS\r\nThe present investigation was carried out at the Department of Postharvest Technology, Horticultural College and Research Institute, Periyakulam, Theni, Tamil Nadu - 625 604. Purple passion fruits were collected from one-year-old vines in Cumbum valley. Matured fruits were harvested at light purple to the purple colour rind and pulp had yellowish orange colour with black colour seeds. The average weight of the fruit is 60-80 g. The fruit has a higher juice content (38-48%) and a better flavour and scent as fresh, canned, or frozen juice or pulp than the yellow one. Within an hour after harvesting, fruits were kept in a pre-cooling room at 15° to remove the field heat. Fruits were cleaned with tap water using a Batch tub bubble washer and drying of water using a Dewatering drying conveyor. After drying, fruits were divided into eleven groups and each group had 10 fruits for postharvest treatments. Treatments were divided into T1 (Aloe vera gel-50 %), T2 (Aloe vera gel-75 %), T3 (Gum Arabic-10 %), T4 (Gum Arabic 15 %), T5 (Chitosan 1 %), T6 (Chitosan-2 %), T7 (Sodium alginate 1 %), T8 (Sodium alginate 2 %), T9 (Carboxy methyl cellulose-1 %), T10 (Carboxy methyl cellulose-1.5 %) and T11 (Control). Then the fruits were dipped in edible coatings for five minutes. In each treatment, glycerol was added to act as a plasticizer. Coated fruits were dried for 1 hour at room temperature and stored in cold storage (8±1°) condition. The experiment was carried out in a completely randomized design with three replications and the observations on physicochemical parameters were taken once in five days.\r\nPhysiological loss in weight (%). The weight loss of the fruits was measured once in five days. Using the formula, the physiological weight loss was estimated. It was given as a percentage (Aboud, 1974).\r\nPhysiological loss in weight (%) = \r\nFirmness (N). Fruit Hardness Tester (Model: FR-5120) with plunger was used to determine the firmness of Passion fruit (diameter- 11mm). The firmness of the fruit was expressed as Newtons.\r\nTotal soluble solids (˚brix). A digital Hand-held Pocket refractometer was used to quantify the passion fruit total soluble solids (TSS) (Model: PAL-3). TSS was expressed as ºBrix.\r\nTitratable acidity (%). Titratable acidity of the passion fruit was determined by following the method given by Ranganna, (1986). It was calculated by using the below formula and represented as a percentage (%).\r\nTitratable acidity (%)= \r\n Where, \r\nT- Titre value, V1= Volume made up, N= Normality of NaOH, V2= Volume of extract taken for estimation, E= Equivalent weight of citric acid, W= Weight of a sample taken for estimation.\r\nAscorbic acid (mg 100 g-1). The oxalic acid titration method was used to determine ascorbic acid (Sadasivam and Balasubramaniam 1987). The following formula was used to determine it, and it was given as mg 100g-1.\r\nAscorbic acid (mg 100 g-1) =\r\n \r\nWhere, \r\nV1- Dye factor value, \r\nV2- Titre value.\r\nShelf-life (days). The shelf life of passion fruit was determined by the number of days the pulp remained palatable and free of browning. Freshness was determined by the fruit\'s visual appearance, such as colour, shrinkage index, pathogenic decay degree, and juiciness, among other factors. (Nanda et al., 2001)\r\nStatistical analysis. The experiment was carried out in a completely randomized design (CRD) with eleven treatments and three replications. The results obtained were subjected to analysis of variance (ANOVA) at a P< 0.05 level of significance using AGRES software (Panse and Sukhatme 1967).\r\nRESULT AND DISCUSSION\r\nA. Physiological loss in weight (%)\r\nWeight loss of passion fruit is mainly due to the consumption of nutrients and loss of water, which is caused by the strengthening of respiration and transpiration (Zhang et al., 2019). On Day 5, the minimum weight loss was observed at 4.90 % in T6 (Chitosan-2 %) and the control sample reaches a maximum weight loss of 10.68 %. The weight loss of passion fruit shows an upward trend during cold storage and minimal weight loss was observed in T6 (19.53 %) and the control group reaches a weight loss of as high as 33.63 % on Day 25 (Table 1). Similar results were found on bananas, where the highest weight loss of 22 % was observed in the control sample and the lowest weight loss of 10% was found in the sample coated with chitosan 2% (Suseno et al., 2014). Slower rates of weight loss in chitosan-coated fruits can be attributed to the barrier properties for gas diffusion of stomata, the organelles that regulate the transpiration process and gas exchange between the fruit and the environment (Maftoonazad and Ramaswamy 2005).\r\nFirmness (N). Softening is one of the major factors affecting the quality of fruits during storage. It is normally due to starch hydrolysis to sugar and the degradation of cell walls which is involved in fruit ripening (Guerreiro et al., 2015). The firmness of passion fruit in each group continuously decreases with the extension of storage time (Table 1). The firmness of the control fruit decreases from the initial value of 40.06 N to the final value of 14.59 N, which proves that its edible value is completely lost. Whereas, the maximum fruit firmness from the initial value (43.11 N) to the 25th day (15.21) was recorded on T6 (Chitosan-2 %) and the minimum firmness observed in T11 (control) initial value of 37.68 N to 18.89 N. Softening is due to the catabolic activity of polygalacturonase (PG) and pectin methylesterase (PME) enzymes during ripening, leading to degradation of middle lamella between parenchyma cells, cell wall disruption, and loss of cellular turgidity (Harker et al., 2010). Shah and Hashmi (2020) reported that all mango fruits were softened during storage. However, the chitosan-coated fruit softened to a lesser extent.\r\nTitratable acidity (%). The rate of reduction in acidity increased with the increased storage period. The reduction in acidity during storage is probably due to the catabolism of citrate and malate and the pace of catabolism increases with the storage period (Sammi and Masud 2007). Fig. 1 shows that titratable acidity of passion fruit decreases with an increased storage period. On Day 5, the higher titratable acidity was found on 4.86 % in T6 (Chitosan-2 %), compared to control with 4.05 %. On the 25th day, the titratable acidity was reduced to 3.68 % in T6 (Chitosan-2 %). It was thought that the reason for this slower decrease in titratable acidity in the chitosan-coated fruits could be due to the reduction of organic acid use in respiration through chitosan acting as a barrier (Nabifarkhani et al., 2015).\r\nAscorbic acid (mg 100 g-1). As shown in Fig. 2, the ascorbic acid content of passion fruit in each group showed a downward trend with an increased storage period, among which the control group decreases the fastest. There is a significant difference between coated and control fruit. The ascorbic acid content of passion fruit decreased from 28.30 to 19.81 mg 100 g-1 as in T6 (Chitosan-2 %) (Fig. 1). Whereas, control fruit decreases faster with an increased storage period from 19.60 to 8.31 mg 100 g-1 (Fig. 1). According to Zhou et al. (2008), the decrease in ascorbic acid is influenced by the oxygen content that can degrade ascorbic acid oxidase and phenol oxidase during storage, thus decreasing the ascorbic acid content of the fruit. It is thus logical to suggest that chitosan coating reduced O2 availability, limited oxidation of compounds and limited the generation of free radicals at the surface of passion fruit.\r\nShelf-life (Days). An increase in shelf life was due to better cell wall integrity because calcium infusion had thickened calcium pectate in the cell wall. The shelf life of coated passion fruits stored under cold storage conditions was shown in Table 1. \r\nMaximum shelf life of 26.5 days after storage was recorded in T6 (Chitosan-2 %) followed by T2 (Aloe vera gel-75 %) had 25.25 days whereas control samples had eighteen days. Trevino et al. (2015) revealed that Chitosan (1.5 %) coated strawberry fruits increased the shelf life from 6 days (control) to 15 days (coated fruits).','Mohamed Jassim J., Prem Joshua J., Saraswathy S., Muthuramalingam S., Anitha T. and Vani V. (2022). Influence of Edible Coatings to enhance the Postharvest Quality of Passion Fruit (Passiflora edulis Sims.) under Cold Storage Conditions. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 14(3): 118-122.'),(5234,'136','Influence of Edible Coatings to Enhance the Postharvest Quality of Passion Fruit (Passiflora edulis Sims.) under Cold Storage conditions','Mohamed Jassim J.*, Prem Joshua J.*, Saraswathy S., Muthuramalingam S., Anitha T. and Vani V.','20 Influence of Edible Coatings to Enhance the Postharvest Quality of Passion Fruit (Passiflora edulis Sims.) under Cold Storage Conditions Mohamed Jassim J.pdf','',1,'The postharvest quality of passion fruit deteriorates rapidly because of intense physiological metabolism and serious water loss which leads to shrinkage in passion fruit. In this context, the experiment was carried out to evaluate the effect of edible coatings Aloe vera gel (50 %, 75 %), Gum arabic (10 %, 15 %), Chitosan (1 %, 2 %), Sodium alginate (1 %, 2 %) and Carboxy methyl cellulose (1 %, 1.5 %) to enhance the postharvest quality of passion fruit under cold storage (8±1 °C) conducted at Horticultural College and Research Institute, Periyakulam, Theni. Results indicated that the passion fruit coated with chitosan (2 %) recorded minimum weight loss (19.53 %) and maximum titratable acidity (3.68 %), ascorbic acid (19.81 mg 100 g-1), firmness (15.21 N) and shelf life of about 26.5 days compared to control. Consequently, Chitosan (2 %) is effective for extending the shelf life and maintaining the postharvest quality of passion fruit at 8±1°C by regulating water loss and physiological metabolism.','Passion fruit, cold storage, Aloe vera gel, Gum arabic, Chitosan, Sodium alginate and Carboxy methyl cellulose','The synergistic effect of postharvest edible coatings and cold storage conditions significantly influenced the physiological loss in weight, firmness, titratable acidity, ascorbic acid and shelf life. Compared to all the treatments, passion fruit coated with chitosan (2 %) up to 25 days recorded minimum weight loss (19.53 %), maximum titratable acidity (3.68 %), Ascorbic acid (19.81 mg 100 g-1) and firmness (15.21 N). Maximum shelf life of 26.5 days was also observed in Chitosan (2 %) treated fruits compared to control which had a minimum shelf life of about eighteen days. ','INTRODUCTION\r\nPassion fruit (Passiflora edulis Sims.) is a native of Brazil in the Tropical American region and it belongs to the Passifloraceae family. It was first introduced to India in the early twentieth century in the Nilgiris, Coorg and Malabar regions of Southern India. It is generally grown in tropical and subtropical regions of the world, ranging from South America to Australia, Asia, and Africa. Recently, Passion fruit is under cultivation in an area of 12.0 thousand ha in India, with a production of 76.0 thousand MT (NHB, 2020). It is a woody, climbing, perennial vine that bears round or ovoid fruits. The rind of the fruits is stiff, smooth, and waxy, with a faint, small white flecks. The fruit has an orange pulpy liquid with a high quantity of small, firm, dark brown to black pitted seeds (Tripathi, 2018).\r\nFruits are almost round to oval in shape, with a strong peel that is smooth and waxy and weighs approximately 60 to 80 g in purple passion fruit and bear on woody perennial vines (Thokchom & Mandal 2017). The juice taste is delicious, has great flavour and have an excellent source of Vitamin A (1300-2500 IU 100 g-1 pulp), vitamin C (30–50 mg 100 g-1 pulp), and minerals like potassium, sodium, magnesium, sulphur, and chlorides are abundant in fruits. Passion fruit is high in natural phenolic compounds, which have been shown to protect against oxidative damage (Joy and Divya 2016).\r\nPostharvest quality of passion fruit is mostly determined by harvest time and storage conditions. Moisture loss, peel colour darkening, microbial infection and nutritional loss are the main causes of postharvest degradation. These are the factors which contribute to the unappealing appearance of fresh fruits, which include wrinkles, unappealing colour, postharvest deterioration and nutritional deficiency. It is classified physiologically as climacteric fruit due to its respiratory properties, ethylene production, climacteric increase and specific responses. Its quality and appearance decline over time and the fruit begins to dehydrate shortly after harvest. During ripening, an increase in respiration rate is driven by a high level of ethylene production. The fruit becomes unmarketable as a result of this degradation. Appropriate storage temperature and postharvest treatment are critical aspects in maintaining the quality of diverse horticulture commodities, as well as prolonging storage life while ensuring product safety.\r\nAfter harvesting, fruit losses are estimated at around 18 to 28 %. The losses will then continue to grow throughout the trading process. Applying an edible coating to the fruit can help to reduce postharvest losses (Nor and Ding 2020). Fruit coating works on the same principle as modified atmosphere packaging, in which an altered atmosphere is formed in the headspace with high CO2 content and a low O2 concentration (Blakistone, 1999).\r\nThere are a variety of post-harvest coatings available for important fruits such as bananas, mangoes, pineapples, and avocados that can effectively extend the shelf-life, minimise water loss, reduce chilling damage and reduce post-harvest disease. Coatings for minor fruits such as durian, rambutan, passion fruit and mangosteen are still scarce and are done from lipid and protein-based coatings. Therefore, the current study was carried out to investigate the influence of edible coatings to enhance the postharvest quality of passion fruit.\r\nMATERIALS AND METHODS\r\nThe present investigation was carried out at the Department of Postharvest Technology, Horticultural College and Research Institute, Periyakulam, Theni, Tamil Nadu - 625 604. Purple passion fruits were collected from one-year-old vines in Cumbum valley. Matured fruits were harvested at light purple to the purple colour rind and pulp had yellowish orange colour with black colour seeds. The average weight of the fruit is 60-80 g. The fruit has a higher juice content (38-48%) and a better flavour and scent as fresh, canned, or frozen juice or pulp than the yellow one. Within an hour after harvesting, fruits were kept in a pre-cooling room at 15° to remove the field heat. Fruits were cleaned with tap water using a Batch tub bubble washer and drying of water using a Dewatering drying conveyor. After drying, fruits were divided into eleven groups and each group had 10 fruits for postharvest treatments. Treatments were divided into T1 (Aloe vera gel-50 %), T2 (Aloe vera gel-75 %), T3 (Gum Arabic-10 %), T4 (Gum Arabic 15 %), T5 (Chitosan 1 %), T6 (Chitosan-2 %), T7 (Sodium alginate 1 %), T8 (Sodium alginate 2 %), T9 (Carboxy methyl cellulose-1 %), T10 (Carboxy methyl cellulose-1.5 %) and T11 (Control). Then the fruits were dipped in edible coatings for five minutes. In each treatment, glycerol was added to act as a plasticizer. Coated fruits were dried for 1 hour at room temperature and stored in cold storage (8±1°) condition. The experiment was carried out in a completely randomized design with three replications and the observations on physicochemical parameters were taken once in five days.\r\nPhysiological loss in weight (%). The weight loss of the fruits was measured once in five days. Using the formula, the physiological weight loss was estimated. It was given as a percentage (Aboud, 1974).\r\nPhysiological loss in weight (%) = \r\nFirmness (N). Fruit Hardness Tester (Model: FR-5120) with plunger was used to determine the firmness of Passion fruit (diameter- 11mm). The firmness of the fruit was expressed as Newtons.\r\nTotal soluble solids (˚brix). A digital Hand-held Pocket refractometer was used to quantify the passion fruit total soluble solids (TSS) (Model: PAL-3). TSS was expressed as ºBrix.\r\nTitratable acidity (%). Titratable acidity of the passion fruit was determined by following the method given by Ranganna, (1986). It was calculated by using the below formula and represented as a percentage (%).\r\nTitratable acidity (%)= \r\n Where, \r\nT- Titre value, V1= Volume made up, N= Normality of NaOH, V2= Volume of extract taken for estimation, E= Equivalent weight of citric acid, W= Weight of a sample taken for estimation.\r\nAscorbic acid (mg 100 g-1). The oxalic acid titration method was used to determine ascorbic acid (Sadasivam and Balasubramaniam 1987). The following formula was used to determine it, and it was given as mg 100g-1.\r\nAscorbic acid (mg 100 g-1) =\r\n \r\nWhere, \r\nV1- Dye factor value, \r\nV2- Titre value.\r\nShelf-life (days). The shelf life of passion fruit was determined by the number of days the pulp remained palatable and free of browning. Freshness was determined by the fruit\'s visual appearance, such as colour, shrinkage index, pathogenic decay degree, and juiciness, among other factors. (Nanda et al., 2001)\r\nStatistical analysis. The experiment was carried out in a completely randomized design (CRD) with eleven treatments and three replications. The results obtained were subjected to analysis of variance (ANOVA) at a P< 0.05 level of significance using AGRES software (Panse and Sukhatme 1967).\r\nRESULT AND DISCUSSION\r\nA. Physiological loss in weight (%)\r\nWeight loss of passion fruit is mainly due to the consumption of nutrients and loss of water, which is caused by the strengthening of respiration and transpiration (Zhang et al., 2019). On Day 5, the minimum weight loss was observed at 4.90 % in T6 (Chitosan-2 %) and the control sample reaches a maximum weight loss of 10.68 %. The weight loss of passion fruit shows an upward trend during cold storage and minimal weight loss was observed in T6 (19.53 %) and the control group reaches a weight loss of as high as 33.63 % on Day 25 (Table 1). Similar results were found on bananas, where the highest weight loss of 22 % was observed in the control sample and the lowest weight loss of 10% was found in the sample coated with chitosan 2% (Suseno et al., 2014). Slower rates of weight loss in chitosan-coated fruits can be attributed to the barrier properties for gas diffusion of stomata, the organelles that regulate the transpiration process and gas exchange between the fruit and the environment (Maftoonazad and Ramaswamy 2005).\r\nFirmness (N). Softening is one of the major factors affecting the quality of fruits during storage. It is normally due to starch hydrolysis to sugar and the degradation of cell walls which is involved in fruit ripening (Guerreiro et al., 2015). The firmness of passion fruit in each group continuously decreases with the extension of storage time (Table 1). The firmness of the control fruit decreases from the initial value of 40.06 N to the final value of 14.59 N, which proves that its edible value is completely lost. Whereas, the maximum fruit firmness from the initial value (43.11 N) to the 25th day (15.21) was recorded on T6 (Chitosan-2 %) and the minimum firmness observed in T11 (control) initial value of 37.68 N to 18.89 N. Softening is due to the catabolic activity of polygalacturonase (PG) and pectin methylesterase (PME) enzymes during ripening, leading to degradation of middle lamella between parenchyma cells, cell wall disruption, and loss of cellular turgidity (Harker et al., 2010). Shah and Hashmi (2020) reported that all mango fruits were softened during storage. However, the chitosan-coated fruit softened to a lesser extent.\r\nTitratable acidity (%). The rate of reduction in acidity increased with the increased storage period. The reduction in acidity during storage is probably due to the catabolism of citrate and malate and the pace of catabolism increases with the storage period (Sammi and Masud 2007). Fig. 1 shows that titratable acidity of passion fruit decreases with an increased storage period. On Day 5, the higher titratable acidity was found on 4.86 % in T6 (Chitosan-2 %), compared to control with 4.05 %. On the 25th day, the titratable acidity was reduced to 3.68 % in T6 (Chitosan-2 %). It was thought that the reason for this slower decrease in titratable acidity in the chitosan-coated fruits could be due to the reduction of organic acid use in respiration through chitosan acting as a barrier (Nabifarkhani et al., 2015).\r\nAscorbic acid (mg 100 g-1). As shown in Fig. 2, the ascorbic acid content of passion fruit in each group showed a downward trend with an increased storage period, among which the control group decreases the fastest. There is a significant difference between coated and control fruit. The ascorbic acid content of passion fruit decreased from 28.30 to 19.81 mg 100 g-1 as in T6 (Chitosan-2 %) (Fig. 1). Whereas, control fruit decreases faster with an increased storage period from 19.60 to 8.31 mg 100 g-1 (Fig. 1). According to Zhou et al. (2008), the decrease in ascorbic acid is influenced by the oxygen content that can degrade ascorbic acid oxidase and phenol oxidase during storage, thus decreasing the ascorbic acid content of the fruit. It is thus logical to suggest that chitosan coating reduced O2 availability, limited oxidation of compounds and limited the generation of free radicals at the surface of passion fruit.\r\nShelf-life (Days). An increase in shelf life was due to better cell wall integrity because calcium infusion had thickened calcium pectate in the cell wall. The shelf life of coated passion fruits stored under cold storage conditions was shown in Table 1. \r\nMaximum shelf life of 26.5 days after storage was recorded in T6 (Chitosan-2 %) followed by T2 (Aloe vera gel-75 %) had 25.25 days whereas control samples had eighteen days. Trevino et al. (2015) revealed that Chitosan (1.5 %) coated strawberry fruits increased the shelf life from 6 days (control) to 15 days (coated fruits).','Mohamed Jassim J., Prem Joshua J., Saraswathy S., Muthuramalingam S., Anitha T. and Vani V. (2022). Influence of Edible Coatings to enhance the Postharvest Quality of Passion Fruit (Passiflora edulis Sims.) under Cold Storage Conditions. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 14(3): 118-122.'),(5235,'136','Germination Improvement in Solanum surattense Seeds through Dormancy Breaking Treatments','T. Murugeshwari*, G. Sasthri, R. Jerlin and L. Nalina','21 Germination Improvement in Solanum surattense Seeds through Dormancy Breaking Treatments T. Murugeshwari.pdf','',1,'Yellow berried nightshade (Solanum surattense) is a perennial, prickly diffuse herb distributed mainly in arid and semi arid regions. It forms an integral part of traditional medicine in India. As the fresh seeds of this plant possess dormancy which leads to uneven germination and non-uniform crop stand. The objective of this experiment is to identify an effective method to break the dormancy of fresh seeds, in order to achieve uniform germination and optimum seedling population at nursery level. Various physical (water soaking, hot water soaking, acid scarification) and physiological (GA3, KNO3, Thiourea) seed treatments were imposed to the seeds with various concentration of solution and duration of soaking hours. Untreated dry seeds were used as control. The results disclosed that physical treatments were not able to break the dormancy of the seeds. However, the physiological treatments were able to improve germination and other seedling quality characters. Among the physiological treatments, GA3 @ 600 ppm for 18 h soaking recorded the highest germination of 88 per cent. It was also accompanied with the highest vigour attributing characters viz., speed of germination (5.9), root length (3.4 cm), shoot length (3.8 cm), dry matter production (5.4 mg) and vigour index (634), and recorded minimum abnormal seedling (8%) and nil fresh ungerminated seeds.','Yellow berried nightshade, physical and physiological seed treatments, Germination','The primary obstacle to plant growth is seed dormancy, which occurs mostly naturally in seeds. It is impossible to grow plantlets in any season without breaking seed dormancy. From the present study it is concluded that seed dormancy of Solanum surattense can be broken by exposing the seeds to GA3 @ 600 ppm for 18 hrs soaking. Since the physiological treatment of GA3 improved the germination of fresh seeds by breaking the dormancy it can be inferred that the dormancy presents in the yellow berried night-shade (Solanum surattense) might be due to excess accumulation of ABA.','INTRODUCTION \r\nSolanum surattense is a wild perennial medicinal herb, distributed throughout the India mainly along roadside and drylands. It is an important base material for traditional medicine in India. It is a diffuse wild perennial herb distributed in Australia, Ceylon, India, Malaysia, Polynesia, and Southeast Asia (Parmar et al., 2017). It belongs to the family solanaceae. It is known for its steroidal alkaloid namely solasonine, solanocarpine and solmargine. Solanum surattense (Syn: Solanum xanthocarpum schrad and Solanum viriginianum L.) is also known as yellow berried nightshade in English commonly called as Indian nightshade. Its vernacular names are Kantkari (Sanskrit), Kateri or Kattay (Hindi), Kantankattiri (Tamil), Nelagulle (Kannad), Nelamulaka (Telugu). It is a prickly diffuse perennial herb woody at base with zig-zag stem bearing numerous branches, the entire plant is covered with prickles, spines are compressed straight, 1-3 cm long, shiny and yellow in color, spines are present all over the plant except the flower region. Leaves are ovate– elliptical 4-12.5 cm length and 2-7.5 cm wide, deeply lobed, veins and margins with spines. Flowers are axillary but some flowers are cyme bluish-violet in color, 5 lobed, calyx free, obovate, prickly acuminate, corolla is widely ovate–triangular, with five sharp lobes. Fruit is Berry, globose, green color with white stripes, when matures it becomes yellow in color, seeds circular, numerous, and smooth (Singh and Singh 2010). \r\nPhytochemically the plant is endowed with sterols, flavonoids, alkaloids, saponins and polyphenols (Parvez et al., 2019). The herb is defined as pungent, bitter, digestive, and alternative astringent in ancient Ayurveda. Entire plant is used for medicinal purpose, fruits are bitter in taste, carminative and the root decoction is diuretic, expectorant and used as febrifuge (Vadnere et al., 2008). Its leaf extracts substantially reduces blood glucose levels while increasing insulin levels (Poongothai et al., 2014). In siddha system of medicine the powder of entire plant is used to treat respiratory disease. The active component in any medicinal plant determines its value, therefore consistency in quality, as well as the quantity of planting material is critical (Singla & Jaitak 2014). As a result, a reliable source of high-quality seed is essential for growing healthy medicinal plants, and high-quality seeds can be obtained using standard seed procedures. Germination of these seed is inconsistent with poor vigour, which necessitate to investigate the issues surrounding the germination and dormancy of seed in order to improve the quality of seed. To overcome the issues, seeds were exposed to certain physical and physiological treatments for breaking the dormancy. Thereby germination can be improved, crop failure is avoided and the planting value of seed is ensured.\r\nMATERIALS AND METHODS\r\nThe experiment was performed at the Department of Seed Science and Technology, Tamil Nadu Agricultural University, Coimbatore during 2021-2022. To conduct the dormancy breaking experiment, dried berries of Solanum surattense were collected from the germplasm maintained by Department of Medicinal and Aromatic Crops and seeds were extracted manually by crushing the dried berries. In order to identify the suitable dormancy breaking treatment with optimum concentration the seeds were exposed to certain physical and physiological seed treatments. Details of dormancy breaking treatments are as follows:\r\n(i) Physical seed treatments. First the fresh seeds were imposed with the following Physical treatments\r\nT0-control\r\nT1- Water soaking for 6 hrs\r\nT2- Water soaking for 12 hrs\r\nT3- Water soaking for 18 hrs\r\nT4- Hot water treatment for 1 min (90-100°C) \r\nT5- Hot water treatment for 2 min (90-100°C)\r\nT6- Hot water treatment for 3 min (90-100°C)\r\nT7- Acid scarification with H2SO4 @ 100 ml/kg of seed for 1 min \r\nT8- Acid scarification with H2SO4 @ 100 ml/kg of seed for 2 min \r\nT9- Acid scarification with H2SO4 @ 100 ml/kg of seed for 3 min \r\n Based on the result of physical treatments, the following physiological treatments were carried out.\r\n\r\n\r\n(ii) Physiological Seed treatments\r\nT0- Control \r\nT1- GA3 @ 200 ppm for 6 hrs soaking \r\nT2- GA3 @ 200 ppm for 12 hrs soaking \r\nT3- GA3 @ 200 ppm for 18 hrs soaking \r\nT4- GA3 @ 400 ppm for 6 hrs soaking\r\nT5- GA3 @ 400 ppm for 12 hrs soaking\r\nT6- GA3 @ 400 ppm for 18 hrs soaking\r\nT7- GA3 @ 600 ppm for 6 hrs soaking\r\nT8- GA3 @ 600 ppm for 12 hrs soaking\r\nT9- GA3 @ 600 ppm for 18 hrs soaking\r\nT10- KNO3 @ 0.5% for 6 hrs soaking\r\nT11- KNO3 @ 0.5% for 12 hrs soaking\r\nT12- KNO3 @ 0.5% for 18 hrs soaking\r\nT13- KNO3 @ 1.0% for 6 hrs soaking\r\nT14- KNO3@ 1.0% for 12 hrs soaking\r\nT15- KNO3 @ 1.0% for 18 hrs soaking\r\nT16- Thiourea @ 0.5% for 6 hrs soaking\r\nT17- Thiourea @ 0.5% for 12 hrs soaking\r\nT18- Thiourea @ 0.5% for 18 hrs soaking\r\nT19- Thiourea @ 1.0% for 6 hrs soaking\r\nT20- Thiourea @ 1.0% for 12 hrs soaking\r\nT21- Thiourea @ 1.0% for 18 hrs soaking\r\nDesign: CRD Replication: 2 \r\nSeeds of Solanum surattense were subjected to the above mentioned seed treatments, and soaked upto the specified durations. Dry seeds were used as absolute control for comparison. For water soaking, seeds were soaked in distilled water for the specified durations. For hot water treatment, the seeds were kept in small cloth bag and immersed in hot water bath maintained at a temperature of 95 ± 5˚C. After soaking for the required durations, the seed were separated from water and shade dried at room temperature (28 ± 2˚C). Similarly, the other treatments were performed with the specified chemicals for the required durations and surface dried. Treated seeds were subjected to germination test as per ISTA rules (ISTA, 2015). The experiment was conducted with top of the media method. Twenty-five seeds of eight replications were placed on top of the paper and the Petri plates were kept in the germination room sustained at a temperature of 25 ± 2˚C and 95±3 % relative humidity. Observations were recorded every day for germination and final count was noted at the end of 21st day. The number of normal seedlings in each replication was noted and the mean value expressed in percentage.\r\nSeeds possessing radicle size of 3-5 mm are considered as germinated and the speed of germination was calculated using the following formula (Magurie, 1962).\r\nSpeed of Germination = \r\n\"Speed of germination = \" \"X\" _\"1\" /\"Y\" _\"1\" \"+\" 〖\"X\" _\"2\" \"-X\" 〗_\"1\" /\"Y\" _\"2\" \"+⋯+\" (\"X\" _\"n\" \"- \" \"X\" _\"n-1\" )/\"Y\" _\"n\" \r\nWhere X1, X2 and Xn are the number of seeds germinated on first, second and nth day respectively. Y1, Y2 and Yn are the first, second and nth day of germination. \r\nThe number of abnormal seedlings were noted from each treatment and mean value was expressed in percentage. Seed which do not absorb moisture until the end of the germination test was considered as hard seeds. Hard seeds from each replication were counted and mean value was expressed in per cent. Seeds which absorbs moisture but do not germinate at the end of germination test was considered as fresh ungerminated seeds and were noted from each replication and the mean value was expressed as percentage. Seed which absorbs moisture and do not germinate when pressed milky paste comes out of the seeds are considered as dead seeds. Similarly, dead seeds were counted from each replication of a treatment and the mean value was expressed in percentage. At the end of 21st, day ten normal seedlings were selected randomly from each replication and root and shoot lengths were measured and expressed in cm. Those seedlings taken for seedling measurement were again forwarded for measuring dry matter production. These ten seedlings were covered with paper cover and shade dried for 24 hours, then dried in a hot air oven maintained at a temperature of 85 ± 2˚C for 24 hrs. Weight of dried seedlings were noted and mean values were expressed in mg 10 seedlings-1. Vigour index was calculated using the formula given by Abdul-Baki and Anderson (1973) and the mean value was expressed as whole number.\r\n\"Vigour index = Germination (%) ×\" \r\n\" Dry matter production (mg10 seedlings-1)\" \r\nThe data recorded from the above experiment were analysed for its level of significance as described by (Panse and Sukhatme 1985). The per cent values were transformed to arc sine values wherever necessary. The critical difference (CD) was calculated at 5 % probability level.\r\nRESULTS AND DISCUSSION\r\nThe freshly harvested seeds possess dormancy and recorded nil germination. Therefore, to improve the germination and other physiological seed quality parameters, seeds were exposed to physical and then physiological dormancy breaking treatments. The results showed that the fresh seeds of Solanum surattense were not responded to any of the physical treatments viz., water soaking, hot water treatment and acid scarification. Therefore, the seeds were exposed to physiological treatments viz., GA3, KNO3, Thiourea. Among the different physiological treatments used for dormancy breaking of Solanum surattense, GA3 @ 600 ppm for 18 hrs of soaking was superior to other treatments in terms of quality parameters. It recorded the maximum germination of 88 per cent accompanied with the highest speed of germination (5.9), root length (3.4 cm), shoot length (3.8 cm), dry matter production (5.4), and vigour index (634) and nil fresh ungerminated seeds. Whereas, control seeds recorded nil germination because of dormancy. The result of the present experiment is in agreement with the findings of Jayamani (2020) in black cumin and Shobarani (2018) in isabgol. Nirawane et al. (2018) reported that seeds of Solanum virginianum when exposed to GA3 at 1100 mg/Lachieved maximum germination. Boomiga et al. (2021) revealed that seeds of Solanum surattense treated with GA3 @ 1500 ppm for 12 hrs recorded maximum germination percentage. GA plays two important roles in the dormancy process, the first is the stimulation of expression of genes encoding for endosperm-hydrolyzing enzymes which breaks down the storage reserves and transports to the growing point, and the second is a direct stimulating influence on the growth potential of embryo (Brady and McCourt, 2003). It accelerated vegetative development, weakens the endosperm layerthat constrained embryo expansion, and mobilizes the reserved food materials from endosperm (Bareke, 2018). Ghodrat and Rousta (2012) found that GA3 has positive effect on dormancy breaking, cell expansion, acceleration of seed germination and increased internodal length and plant height. It also helps in activation of other physiologically active substances which aids in absorption of more water as a result of increased cell wall elasticity and leads to formation of efficient root system which exhibits an improved vigour index. According to Grappin et al. (1999), GA plays an inhibitory effect on ABA accumulation which is the primary hormone involved during the step of dormancy maintenance, thereby it plays an active role in control of this process.\r\nIn the present study seed germination per cent was significantly increased when the concentration of GA3 increased and there was a significant increase in percentage germination when there is increase in duration of soaking. \r\nLikewise, fresh seeds treated with different concentrations of KNO3 also improved the germination and other quality parameters, but not higher than GA3 treatment. Among the various concentration of KNO3, seeds recorded higher germination at a concentration of KNO3 1% and soaking duration of 18 hrs. The other seedling quality parameters recorded were, root length (2.5 cm), shoot length (2.9 cm), DMP (4.9 mg) and vigour index (292). Similar observations were recorded by Gupta et al. (2011), where germination and other quality parameters were increased when the seeds of Hippophae salicifolia treated with KNO3 @ 0.1% for 48 hrs. Barathkumar (2019) found that seeds of Phyllanthus emblica L treated with 2% KNO3 for 24 hrs followed by 500 ppm GA3 for 24 hrs soaking had the greatest germination percentage and vigour index. According to McIntyre et al. (1996) application of KNO3 speed ups the uptake of water and oxygen and also improves the seed nutritional status, such as amino acid content. Bewley and Black (2012) reasoned that KNO3 raises the ambient oxygen level by making less oxygen available for citric acid cycle. At low temperature more oxygen dissolves in water and therefore more oxygen is prepared for embryo hence improves the rate of germination. Similar to GA3 treatment, the germination and other seedling quality parameters were improved when the concentration of chemical and duration of soaking were increased.\r\nHowever, in case of seed treatment with thiourea, the percentage germination was maintained when the concentration and duration of soaking were increased. But other seedling parameters recorded were increased when the concentration and duration were increased. It showed maximum root length (2.5 cm), shoot length (3.0 cm), dry matter production (4.9 mg) and vigour index (275) @ thiourea 1.0% for 18 hrs soaking. Thiourea is a chemical which promotes the germination of light requiring seeds. Effect of thiourea on seed germination due to the alteration in the nucleic acid metabolism of seeds was observed by Poljakoff-Mayber and Mayer (1960). Thiourea enhances germination by acidifying and weakening cell walls, which erodes the seed coat and thereby increases cell wall permeability (Ali et al., 2010). \r\n','T. Murugeshwari, G. Sasthri, R. Jerlin and L. Nalina (2022). Germination Improvement in Solanum surattense Seeds through Dormancy Breaking Treatments. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 14(3): 123-128.'),(5236,'136','Evaluation of Dolichos bean (Lablab purpureus var. typicus) germplasm for yield and quality','Harini M., Ramar A.*, Janavi G. J. and Madhan Mohan M.','22 Evaluation of Dolichos bean (Lablab purpureus var. typicus) germplasm for yield and quality Harini M.pdf','',1,'The current experiment was conducted at HC & RI Periyakulam in the summer of 2022 to assess the Dolichos bean\'s heritability, genetic variability, and genetic advance for yield, and yield-related characteristics. Due to dolichos bean genotype genetic variability and the possibility that it could be employed as parent material, it will be essential to evaluate its potential in order to put into action future crop enhancement programs. 26 genotypes of the bush-type Dolichos bean were investigated for 10 morphometric characteristics using a randomized block design with three replications. The genotype PKM LP 26 had the highest germination percentage (91.98%), followed by genotype PKM LP 11 (90.40%) and genotype PKM LP 06 (75.50%), which had the lowest germination percentage. The average plant height ranged from 44.89 -76.75 cm. The genotype PKM LP 04 (44.89 cm) recorded the minimum plant height and the genotype PKM LP 02 (76.75 cm) followed by PKM LP 27 (75.95 cm) recorded the maximum plant height. Earlier flowering was found in the genotype PKM LP 06 (38.30 days) while maximum days for first flowering was found in the genotype PKM LP 35 (53.45 days). Days to 50 % flowering ranged from 45.20-58.83 days with a mean value of 53.05 days. Genotype PKM LP 02 (6.93) recorded the highest no. of raceme plant-1 followed by the genotype PKM LP 11 (6.53) and the lowest no. of raceme plant-1 was found in the genotype PKM LP 19 (3.80). The highest no. of pod plant-1 was identified in the genotype PKM LP 26 (39.66) followed by the genotype PKM LP 11(38.45) and the genotype PKM LP 15 (24.18) recorded the lowest number of pod plant-1. Among all the genotype yield/plant was highest in the genotype PKM LP 26 (143.56 g) followed by the genotype PKM LP 11 (138.94 g). Both the number of pods produced by plant-1 and the yield of pods produced by plant-1 had high PCV and GCV, implying that these characteristics had greater magnitudes of variability and, as a result, more potential for development through selection. Except for germination percentage, initial flowering days, and 50% flowering days, all traits had strong heritability together with high genetic advance expressed as a percentage of the mean. The findings indicate that these features are influenced by additive gene action, therefore judicious choice based on all these phenotypical traits might be more effective.','Dolichos bean, GCV, PCV, GAM and heritability','PKM LP 26 followed by PKM LP 11 had the maximum green pod plant-1 and the highest green pod yield per plant, respectively, @ 5 percent CD value. Hence, it can be concluded that PKM LP 26 is the best performance among taken up for trail. In the conclusion based on the estimations of genetic variability, individual plants could be carried out selection for characters viz., Pod/plant, pod yield/plant, and pod weight as they recorded high values of heritability and genetic advance.','INTRODUCTION\r\nOne of the most popular native legume vegetables is dolichos bean (Lablab purpureus var. typicus), which is grown for its soft green pods. It is a perennial plant with bushy, upright, or climbing habits, yet it is planted as an annual. Its cultivation is influenced significantly by regional preferences. South India prefers green pods, while eastern India prefers white pods and northern India prefers green fleshy pods. It\'s a multi-purpose crop that can be eaten as a pulse, a vegetable, or fodder. The Dolichos lablab bean has a diverse set of qualities that can be used in a range of situations. One of its first advantages is its adaptability. It is drought tolerant and can thrive in a wide range of conditions. Dolichos beans exist in pole and bush varieties, each with its growth characteristics.\r\nDolichos beans are an excellent source of protein, minerals, and vitamins (Golani et al., 2007). Due to their medicinal properties, lentils are employed in both traditional and modern healthcare systems (Morris 2009). The pole and bush forms of the dolichos bean come in a very broad variety of plant and pod features due to its Indian heritage. The dolichos bean has proven challenging to raise because of its low production, photosensitive nature, unpredictable growth habit, flowering habit, and consumer trends based on color, size, pod form, and aroma (Mishra et al., 2019).\r\nBreeding for productivity and the characteristics that contribute to it for any crop is influenced by polygene, environmental factors, and the level and type of genetic variability. PCV and GCV, which together reveal relative variation in different characteristics, which used to assess the level of variability. Therefore, to obtain an overall and accurate perspective, a quantitative assessment of the yield and its components is essential. The assessment of heritability examines how effectively a characteristic is passed down from one generation to the next generation. According to Chauhan et al. (2021) variation occurs between genotypes both chemo-typically and morphologically this variation may be due to its genetic nature. Low-degree environmental interactions affect highly heritable features related to yield, and traits related to yield in the selection program. Though genetic advances aid in the development of efficient selection techniques, heritability indicates the amount of quantitative trait inheritance. Genetic advances and heritability analyses enhance selection. The objective of the recent study was to assess the genetic advance, heritability, and genetic variability for several attributes among 26 Dolichos bean genotypes.\r\nMATERIALS AND METHODS\r\nDuring the year from 2021 to 2022, the experimental study was conducted at the Horticultural College and Research Institute in Periyakulam, Tamil Nadu, India, at the Western Block (10.13°N latitude, 77.59°E longitude) with an average altitude is 356 meters above sea level (Table 1). The experimental material comprised 26 genotypes of crops taken from various parts of Tamil Nadu and Kerala. During the summer, the selected genotypes were sowed in RBD with three replications. Each genotype was planted with a 60 × 30 cm spacing. To record observation and biometrical parameters as well as quality traits, five plants were chosen from each genotype and replication. Throughout the crop period, standard agronomic practices and prescribed plant protection measures were followed.\r\n From randomly selected five plants from each genotype, morphological observations such as plant type, pod color, seed color, and flower color were recorded. The genotype was characterized according to the documented descriptors. Five plants were chosen randomly from the total area of the plot, tagged, and observation was recorded growth, yield, and flowering characteristics were recorded at various stages: germination percentage, earlier flowering, days to 50% flowering, and the racemes/plant. Among the yield parameters were days taken for pod formation, number of pods per plant, pod length (cm), pod breadth (cm), number of seeds per pod, and pod yield per plant (Kg). By using (Panse & Sukhatme 1954) approach, analysis of variance was employed as a strategy to separate overall variation from those resulting from treatment and replication. The genotypic and phenotypic variance was calculated using the Burton method (1953). The method provided by Johnson et al. (1955) allowed for the calculation of genetic advance as a percentage of the mean and heritability.\r\nThe Dolichos bean\'s 26 genotypes differed considerably in 4 qualitative parameters. The bloom colors range from white to pink to purple; all genotypes have a bushy growth habit. Most pods were green or light green. Each genotype pod can be consumed whole as a green vegetable. The seed was either white, brown, or black. All ten yield and yield-attributing characteristics under evaluation progressively significant variation in the proposed study\'s analysis of variance (ANOVA) (Table 3). Based on the mean performance the genotype PKM LP 26 (91.98%) was recorded with a maximum germination percentage followed by the genotype PKM LP 11 (90.40 %) and the genotype PKM LP 06 (75.50 %) recorded the minimum germination percentage. The average plant height ranged from 44.89 -76.75 cm (Table 2). \r\nThe genotype PKM LP 04 (44.89 cm) recorded the minimum plant height and the genotype PKM LP 02 (76.75 cm) followed by PKM LP 27 (75.95 cm) recorded the maximum plant height. Earlier flowering was found in the genotype PKM LP 06 (38.30 days) while maximum days for first flowering was found in the genotype PKM LP 35 (53.45 days). Days to 50 % flowering ranged from 45.20-58.83 days with a mean value of 53.05 days. Genotype PKM LP 02 (6.93) recorded the highest number of raceme plant-1 followed by the genotype PKM LP 11 (6.53) and the lowest number of raceme plant-1 was found in the genotype PKM LP 19 (3.80). The highest number of pod plant-1 was identified in the genotype PKM LP 26 (39.66) followed by the genotype PKM LP 11(38.45) and the genotype PKM LP 15 (24.18) recorded the least number of pod plant-1. The genotype PKM LP 11(8.56cm) recorded the maximum pod length and minimum pod length was observed in the genotype PKM LP 15 (5.86cm). The genotype PKM LP 02 (1.68 cm) recorded the maximum pod width and the minimum pod width was recorded in the genotype PKM LP 19 (1.06 cm). The genotype PKM LP 08 (4.65) identified the maximum no of seeds per pod and the minimum seed /pod was recorded in the genotype PKM LP 01 (3.19). Among all the genotype yield/plant was highest in the genotype PKM LP 26 (143.56 g) followed by the genotype PKM LP 11 (138.94g).\r\nGenetic variability, heritability, and genetic advance\r\nTable 4 displays the heritability values, and estimated GAM, mean, range, GCV, and PCV (genotypic and phenotypic coefficients of variation) for the characteristics under investigation. A small difference between the GCV and PCV values for the characteristics suggests that they have had a high amount of genetic variability and, as a result, have a better chance of being selected. These characteristics show considerable genetic variability and are less affected by the environment. Table 3 presents the estimations of various genetic parameters. The yield and number of pods produced by plant-1 both showed high GCV and PCV, indicating that these characteristics had a greater order of magnitude of variability and, as a result, more opportunity for improvement through selection. Singh et al. (2015) verified the prior findings for the pod plant-1 and the plant yield in 24 genotypes of the dolichos bean.\r\nHigh PCV and GCV for green pod yield/plant were reported by Chattopadhyay & Dutta (2010) and Chaitanya et al. (2014), respectively. Moderate PCV and GCV are indicated by the plant height, racemes/ plant, pod length (cm), number of seeds/pod, and green pod width. This suggests that both additive and non-additive gene activity may contribute to the reported traits. These results were confirmed using the findings of Chaitanya et al. (2014), Hadavani et al. (2018), and Sahu & Bahadur (2018) for a number of seeds /pod in the Dolichos bean. For germination percentage, early flowering, and days to 50% flowering, PCV and GCV were low. These findings were supported by Savithiri et al. (2018) and Chaitanya et al. (2014), respectively.\r\nApart from germination percentage, days for 50% flowering, and early flowering, the current study revealed significant heritability and high genetic progress as a percentage of the mean. According to the findings, these traits are influenced by additive gene action; as a result, careful choice based on such morphological parameters will be more effective. In terms of pod width, pod length, and the number of seeds per pod, the current findings were equivalent to those of Savitha (2008) and Rai et al. (2008). The results for pod width (cm), pod weight (g), and pod length (cm) in Dolichos bean genotypes were identical, based on Magalingam et al. (2013). Kujur et al. (2017) showed similar results for early flowering, tender pod length, and earlier flowering and pod width.\r\n\r\n','Harini M., Ramar A.*, Janavi G. J., Madhan Mohan M. (2022). Evaluation of Dolichos bean (Lablab purpureus var. typicus) germplasm for yield and quality. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 14(3): 129-134.'),(5237,'136','Genetic Variability, Correlation and Path Analysis of M3 Generation Mutants in Moringa (Moringa oleifera L.) for Leaf Biomass','Hari K., K. Nageswari*, G.J. Janavi and P. Geetharani','23 Genetic Variability, Correlation and Path Analysis of M3 Generation Mutants in Moringa (Moringa oleifera L.) for Leaf Biomass Hari K.pdf','',1,'In annual moringa var. PKM 1 of M3 generation mutants were evaluated for leaf yield and the analysis of variance indicated that there is an existence of significant variability among the four mutants (2-1&7-1 mutants from gamma rays (100Gy) and 35-1&35-2 (0.15%) mutants from EMS %) from M2 generation, for all the parameters under this study. It is important to study mutation to induce novel and heritable genetic variation within a short period of time, easily create new variation not found in nature and mutation breeding is considered an appropriate strategy to improve the breeding efficiency of evolving novel moringa leafy types. The highest genotypic coefficient of variation was recorded for internodal length, number of rachis per tree, height at first branching, dry leaf yield and fresh leaf yield. Heritability and genetic advance as percent of mean estimates were high for internodal length, trunk girth, number of secondary branches per tree and fresh leaf yield per plant. Yield per plant had significant and positive association with number of rachis per tree, internodal length and fresh leaf yield. Non significant and negative association was observed for shoot length, trunk girth and leaf powder recovery (%). In path coefficient analysis, high direct effect was observed for number of secondary branches per tree, number of rachis per tree, trunk girth and height at first branching. Negative direct effect on yield was noticed by trunk girth, height at first harvest, shoot length, dry leaf yield and leaf powder recovery (%). The high values of variability, correlation and path analysis for all these traits indicate the possibility of induced desirable mutants for polygenic traits accompanied by effective selection in M3 and later generations.','Mutation, genetic variability, correlation, path analysis, Moringa','In this study, the quantitative traits of the M3 generation revealed the enhancement of the significant level of yield parameters in Annual moringa PKM 1. Among the various mutants, 0.15% (35-1) of EMS and 100Gy (2-1) of gamma rays treatment were more desirable, which resulted high leaf biomass and higher genetic effects. In all the four mutant leaf powder recovery (%), number of secondary branches per tree and number of rachis per tree was considered as the important trait for selection of mutant in leaf yield followed by internodal length and trunk girth. ','INTRODUCTION\r\nMoringa (Moringa oleifera Lam.,) is an incredible plant to mankind, because of its pharmacognostical and nutritional properties (Fahey, 2005). Out of 13 known species, Moringa is the single genus of the family Moringaceae (Mahmood et al., 2010) and Moringa oleifera is the most exploited species among them. Other names includes Miracle tree, Never die or Nature gift, or Mother‘s best friend. All the plant parts of moringa has been utilized for various purposes; the leaves are considered as a nutritionally superior vegetable containing more beta-carotene than carrots, more protein than peas, more vitamin C than oranges, more calcium than milk, more potassium than bananas and more iron than spinach (Prabhakar and Hebbar 2008). Moringa leaf/powder is the second most exported moringa product, with the value of 1.1 billion US dollars, after moringa seeds (1.6 billion). Moringa leaf or powder is most commonly exported from India. The European Union leads the way in importing moringa leaf or powder (Moringa-Meet 2015). Despite the high demand, no moringa variety has been developed specifically for leaf biomass. Induced mutation using physical and chemical mutagens is one way to create genetic variation which results in new varieties varieties with better characteristics (Devi and Mullainathan 2012). In order to improve leaf yield and other polygenic characters, mutation breeding can be effectively utilized (Deepalakshmi and Kumar 2004). Mutation breeding is one of the most effective ways of inducing genetic variability available to the plant breeder (Muhammed et al., 2016). The mutation breeding helps to improve one or two characters without changing the rest of the genotype (Arunal et al., 2010). Artificial induction of mutation provides raw materials for the genetic improvement of economic crops (Adamu and Aliyu 2007) and also used to create genetic variability in quantitative traits of various crop plants within the shortest possible times (Aruldoss et al., 2015).\r\n To assist in selecting for work on yield improvement, attributes linked to yield should also be determined using correlation and path coefficient analysis. Despite the fact that correlation analysis shows the pattern of relationships between component qualities and yield, it also illustrates the overall influence of a particular attribute on yield rather than a cause-and-effect relation. The method of path coefficient analysis makes it easier to distinguish genotypic correlation into the direct and indirect effects of different characters on yield (Mahbub et al., 2015). The goal of the current study was to evaluate the genetic variability, correlation, and path coefficient analysis of the moringa M3 generation mutants for leaf biomass.\r\nMATERIALS AND METHODS\r\nThe present experiment was undertaken at Department of Vegetable Science, Horticultural College and Research Institute, Periyakulam, TNAU during 2021-2022. The experiment material is mutated annual moringa PKM 1 and the seeds of each treatment from M2 generation was forwarded into M3 generation with the spacing of 2.0 m between rows and 1.5m between plants. A total set of four mutants (2-1&7-1 mutants from gamma rays (100Gy) and 35-1&35-2 mutants from EMS (0.15%) from M2 generation were evaluated for different morphological traits. In each mutant 20 plants were evaluated and Observations on morphological traits viz., shoot length (cm), number of secondary branches per tree, number of rachis per tree, height at first branching (cm), internodal length (cm), trunk girth (cm), height at first harvest (cm), dry leaf yield (g), leaf powder recovery (%) and fresh leaf yield (g) was recorded. The variability for different quantitative parameters was estimated as per procedure suggested by Panse and Sukhatme (1961), GCV and PCV as per Burton (1952) heritability and genetic advance as per Johnson et al. (1955). Correlation coefficient was worked out as per Panse and Sukhatme (1961) and path coefficient analysis was worked out according to formula given by Dewey and Lu (1959).\r\nRESULT AND DISCUSSION\r\nA. Mutant 2-1(100Gy)\r\nThe results of the estimation of genetic variability indicated that the considerable variability for all the traits in this mutant (Table 1). The phenotypic co-efficient of variation values are slightly greater than genotypic coefficient of variation values for most of the traits. There was a close relationship between genotypic coefficient of variation and phenotypic coefficient of variation for most of the traits which indicate that there was very little effect of environment on their gene expression. In this mutant the higher estimates of genotypic coefficient of variation and phenotypic coefficient of variation was observed for shoot length, height at first branching, internodal length, dry leaf yield and fresh leaf yield. This indicates that the variability existing in these traits is due to genetic makeup. These results were in accordance with the findings of Karunagar et al. (2018) in Moringa and Praseetha (2015) in okra. Moderate estimates of genotypic coefficient of variation and phenotypic coefficient of variation was observed for number of secondary branches per tree, number of rachis per tree and leaf powder recovery percentage. Similar results reported by Chandra et al. (2013) in okra. Low estimates of genotypic coefficient of variation and phenotypic coefficient of variation was observed for the trait trunk girth and height at first harvest.\r\nHigh heritability coupled with high genetic advance as percent of mean was observed for the traits viz., shoot length, number of rachis per tree, height at first branching, internodal length, dry leaf yield, leaf powder recovery (%) and fresh leaf yield. Similar results were observed by Das et al. (2012) in okra. Moderate heritability and moderate genetic advance as percent of mean were observed for number of secondary branches per tree and trunk girth. High genetic advance as percent of mean was observed for height at first harvest. High heritability accompanied with high genetic advance as percent of mean indicates the involvement of additive gene action, therefore selection may be effective at later generations.\r\nSimple correlation co-efficient of 10 characters in all possible combinations was calculated to know the relationship among the mutants. The fresh leaf yield per plant had significant and positive association with shoot length (0.603), height at first branching (0.445), internodal length (0.642), height at first harvest (0.811), dry leaf yield (0.931) and leaf powder recovery percentage (0.809) (Table 5).\r\nPath coefficient analysis results revealed that the positive and high direct effect for number of secondary branches per tree (0.4014), height at first branching (0.3067), trunk girth (0.3691) and leaf powder recovery percentage (0.3685). These traits contributed the most towards fresh leaf yield per plant. Positive and low direct effect was observed only for this trait height at first harvest. The shoot length (-0.4640) and dry leaf yield (-0.7609) was registered negative and high direct effect. Negative and negligible direct effect for number of rachis per tree was observed in this mutant. Based on the path coefficient analysis number of secondary branches per tree, height at first branching, trunk girth and leaf powder recovery (%) may be considered as selection indices for yield improvement. \r\n\r\nB. Mutant 7-1 (100Gy)\r\nThe results of the estimation of genetic variability indicated that the considerable variability for all the traits in this mutant (Table 2). The higher estimates of genotypic coefficient of variation and phenotypic coefficient of variation was observed for the traits height at first branching, internodal length, dry leaf yield and fresh leaf yield. Similar findings was reported by Meena et al. (2012) in cabbage. The moderate estimates of genotypic coefficient of variation and phenotypic coefficient of variation was observed for number of secondary branches per tree , number of rachis per tree, trunk girth and leaf powder recovery (%). Similar results were reported by Adiger et al. (2011) in moringa. The low estimates of genotypic coefficient of variation and phenotypic coefficient of variation was observed for shoot length and height at first harvest.\r\nHigh heritability couple with high genetic advance as percent of mean was observed for the traits viz., number of secondary branches per tree, number of rachis per tree, height at first branching, internodal length, trunk girth, dry leaf yield, leaf powder recovery (%) and fresh leaf yield. Similar result were reported by Selvakumari et al. (2013) in moringa. Low heritability and genetic advance as percent of mean was observed for shoot length and height at first harvest.\r\nThe fresh leaf yield per plant had significant and positive association was observed for number of secondary branches per tree (0.699), no of rachis per tree (0.874), trunk girth (0.394), height at first harvest (0.510), dry leaf yield (0.989) and leaf powder recovery percentage (0.863) (Table 6). \r\nPath coefficient analysis results revealed that the positive and high direct effect for number of rachis per tree (0.9248), leaf powder recovery percentage (0.7814), number of secondary branches per tree (0.7337), height at first harvest (0.4779) and trunk girth (0.3909). These traits contributed for fresh leaf yield per plant. Further positive and low direct effect was observed for internodal length (0.1316). Negative and high direct effect for shoot length (-0.4485) and negative and low direct effect on dry leaf yield (-0.1174). In this mutant based on this number of rachis per tree, number of secondary branches per tree, height at first harvest, trunk girth and leaf powder recovery (%) may be considered as selection indices for leaf yield improvement (Table 10)\r\nC. Mutant 35-1 (0.15% EMS)\r\nThe results of the estimation of genetic variability indicated that the considerable variability for all the traits in this mutant (Table 3). The higher estimates of genotypic coefficient of variation and phenotypic coefficient of variation were observed for height at first branching, internodal length and fresh leaf yield. Moderate estimates of genotypic coefficient of variation and phenotypic coefficient of variation was observed for shoot length, number of secondary branches per tree, number of rachis per tree, trunk girth and dry leaf yield. Similar result were observed by Chandra et al., (2014) in okra. Lower estimates of genotypic coefficient of variation and phenotypic coefficient of variation was observed for height at first harvest and leaf powder recovery (%).\r\nHigh heritability coupled with high genetic advance as percent of mean was observed for the traits viz., number of rachis per tree, height at first branching, internodal length, trunk girth, dry leaf yield and fresh leaf yield. Similar results were observed by Raja and Bagle (2008) in moringa. High heritability with moderate genetic advance as percent of mean was observed for shoot length, height at first harvest. Moderate heritability with moderate genetic advance as percent of mean was observed for the trait number of secondary branches per tree. Low heritability with low genetic advance as percent of mean was observed for leaf powder recovery (%).\r\nThe fresh leaf yield per plant had significant and positive association was observed for number of secondary branches per tree (0.885), number of rachis per tree (0.766), height at first harvest (0.805) and dry leaf yield (0.951). These findings coincides with the findings of Roy et al. (2016) in moringa and Naresh et al. (2021) in dolichos bean (Table 7).\r\nPath coefficient analysis results revealed that the positive and high direct effect for height at first harvest (0.9057). This traits contribute the most towards fresh leaf yield per plant. Further, positive and moderate direct effects were observed for height at first branching (0.2540) and internodal length (0.2750). Positive and negligible direct effect for shoot length (0.0469), and trunk girth(0.0654). These traits indicated strong positive association with leaf yield. Negative and high direct effects for the traits viz., leaf powder recovery (-0.7272), fresh leaf yield (-0.6839) and number of secondary branches per tree. Negative and low direct effect for dry leaf yield (-0.1061). Negative and negligible direct effects for number of rachis per tree (-0.0165). Based on the results of path co-efficient analysis it was observed that the height at first harvest, height at first branching, internodal length and trunk girth may be considered as selection indices for leaf yield improvement (Table 11).\r\nD. Mutant 35-2 (0.15% EMS) \r\nThe results of the estimation of genetic variability indicated that the considerable variability for all the traits in this mutant (Table 4). The higher estimates of genotypic coefficient of variation and phenotypic coefficient of variation was observed for number of rachis per tree, height at first branching , dry leaf yield and fresh leaf yield. These findings coincides with the findings of Sheetal and Maurya (2015) in moringa. Moderate estimates of genotypic coefficient of variation and phenotypic coefficient of variation was observed for shoot length, internodal length, trunk girth and leaf powder recovery (%). Similar results were observed by Adiger et al. (2011) in moringa. Lower estimates of genotypic coefficient of variation and phenotypic coefficient of variation was observed for number of secondary branches per tree and height at first harvest.\r\nHigh heritability coupled with high genetic advance as percent of mean was observed for the traits viz., shoot length, number of rachis per tree, height at first branching, internodal length, trunk girth, dry leaf yield, leaf powder recovery (%) and fresh leaf yield. Similar results were reported by Sheetal and Maurya, (2015) in moringa. High heritability with moderate genetic advance as percent of mean were observed for height at first harvest. Low heritability and genetic advance as percent of mean was observed for number of secondary branches per tree.\r\nThe fresh leaf yield per plant had significant and positive association with number of rachis per tree (0.574), trunk girth (0.648) and dry leaf yield (0.992). Similar results were reported by Selvakumari and Ponnuswamy (2015) in moringa (Table 8).\r\nPath coefficient analysis results revealed that positive and high direct effect for number of secondary branches per tree (0.9200), trunk girth (0.5840) and number of rachis per tree (0.3226). These traits contributed the most towards fresh leaf yield per plant. Further, positive and low direct effect on height at first harvest (0.1683) and dry leaf yield (0.1456). These traits indicated a strong positive association with yield. Negative and moderate direct effect on height at first branching (-0.2193) and internodal length (-0.2320). Negative and low direct effect for shoot length (-0.0511) and fresh leaf yield (-0.1195). Negative and negligible direct effects on leaf powder recovery percentage (-0.0511). Based on this number of rachis per tree, trunk girth, internodal length and leaf powder recovery (%) may be considered as selection indices for leaf yield improvement.\r\n','Hari K., K. Nageswari, G.J. Janavi and P. Geetharani (2022). Genetic Variability, Correlation and Path Analysis of M3 Generation Mutants in Moringa (Moringa oleifera L.) for Leaf Biomass. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 14(3): 135-142.'),(5238,'136','Effect of Planting Dates and Varieties on Seed Quality Paramertes of Off-Season Soybean (Glycine max L.)','Kagita Navya*, K. Parimala, M. Rajendar Reddy and A. Padmasri','24 Effect of Planting Dates and Varieties on Seed Quality Paramertes of Off-Season Soybean (Glycine max L.) Kagita Navya.pdf','',1,'The present study was carried out to assess the effect of dates of sowing and varieties on seed quality parameters of soybean seed produced during off-season. The seed harvested from 15th December and 15th January sown crop of soybean varieties viz., AISb-50, Basara and JS-335 were used for estimation of seed quality parameters. The results revealed that seed quality parameters differed significantly due to sowing dates and varieties. Effect of dates of sowing was found to be non significant for the traits germination (%), speed of germination and electrical conductivity. The crop sown on 15th December exhibited significantly higher seedling length (30.50cm), seedling vigour index-I (2605), dry weight (838.40 mg), seedling vigour index-II (71541) and field emergence (81.22%). Among the varieties studied, AISb-50 exhibited significant superiority for germination (88.67%) and seedling vigour index-1 (2443), while the variety JS-335 showed higher field emergence and speed of germination. Seedling length and seedling vigour index-II were found to be on par among the varieties. High amount of leakage of leachates was recorded in Basara whereas the varieties, JS-335 and AISb-50 showed least electrical conductivity. Influence of dates of sowing and varieties revealed that the variety AISb-50 of 15th December sown exhibited higher germination (89.00%), seedling vigour index I (2605) and seedling vigour index II (71541) over other treatments. The traits such as seedling length, seedling vigour index-I, speed of germination and field emergence were found to be significantly superior in JS-335 and AISb-50 of 15th December sown crop. The variety Basara with both the dates of sowing showed higher EC over other interactions studied. Among the different dates of sowing and varieties evaluated, crop sown on 15th December with JS-335 and AISb-50 found to be superior for most of seed quality parameters studied.','Soybean, seed quality, varieties, dates of sowing, germination','From the study it can be understand that seed quality parameters was significantly affected by sowing date and varieties. The seed harvested from 15th December sown crop had good seed quality compared to 15th January sown. Among the varieties studied, JS-335 and AISb-50 were found to superior for most of the traits studied. In case of interactions the crop sown on 15th December with JS-335 and AISb-50 exhibited superiority for seed quality parameters. ','INTRODUCTION\r\nSoybean (Glycine max L. Merrill) is one of the most important economic oilseed crop. It contributes 25% of vegetable oil production and major source of protein (40%) and oil (20%) for both human and animal consumption. It contains a good amount of minerals, salts and vitamins (thiamine and riboflavin). Soybean is of lavones have beneficial effects on human health due to their antioxidative, antitumoral and antiantherosclerotic activities (Davis et al., 1999). India is the fifth major soybean growing country in the world and it occupies an area of 3.95 lakh ha with a production of 12.50 million tons and productivity of 12.45 q ha¬¬ 1 (INDIASTAT, 2020-21).\r\nSoybean seed quality deteriorate very quickly due to various constraints. The different varieties of soybean are sensitive to changes in environmental conditions where the crop is being grown (Calvinoa, 2003). Seed deterioration during storage is one of the reason for low productivity in soybean, as well as ageing conditions adversely affect the seed vigour (Tatic et al., 2012). Mainly soybean seed production is being taken up during kharif season. Since for the last few years, incessant rains coincide with pod maturity stage of the crop which results in in-situ germination and rejection of seed lots causes shortage of quality seed. Soybean seed is typically a poorer storer which losses its quality faster rate and leads to poor plant stand in the field. In such situation contingency seed production especially in the off season is very much essential. Hence, there is a need to identify the best sowing time and ideal genotypes for enhanced quality seed production during offseason in Telangana State. Keeping in view of the above, the present study was taken up to assess the seed quality parameters of soybean seed produced during off-season. \r\nMATERIAL AND METHODS \r\nThe field experiment was conducted with two dates of sowing (15th December and 15th January) by using three varieties viz., AISb-50, Basara and JS-335 during Rabi 2021-22 at Agricultural Research Station, Adilabad. At physiological maturity the crop was harvested and seed was collected separately for the treatments studied. The seed obtained from field experiment was used to asses the seed quality parameters. The laboratory experiment was conducted Seed Research and Technology Center, Rajendranagar in FCRD with three replications to know the effect of sowing dates and genotypes on seed quality. The observations were recorded for germination (%), seedling length (cm), seedling vigour index-I, seedling dry weight (mg), seedling vigour index-II, speed of germination, field emergence (%) and electrical conductivity (µScm-1 g-1).Germination test was conducted as per ISTA using between paper method, the number of normal seedlings were counted on 8th day by following formula.\r\nGermination % = (Number of normal seedlings)/(Total number of seeds placed) ×100\r\nSeedling vigour index-I and seedling vigour index-II was calculated as per the formula given by Abdul-Baki and Anderson (1973) and expressed in whole number. \r\nSVI-I = Germination (%) × Seedling length (cm)\r\nSVI-II = Germination (%) × Seedling dry weight (mg)\r\nThe data recorded on various seed quality parameters were subjected to statistical analysis as per the method given by Panse and Sukhatme (1985).\r\nRESULTS AND DISCUSSION\r\nAnalysis of variance for varieties showed significant difference for germination (%), seedling dry weight, speed of germination, field emergence and electrical conductivity. Whereas the dates of sowing and interaction effects showed significant differences for the traits viz., seedling length, seedling dry weight, seedling vigour index-II and field emergence (Table 1).\r\nThe variety AISb-50 exhibited significant superiority for germination (88.67%) over Basara (82.34%) while it showed on par performance with JS-335 (Table 2). The interaction between dates of sowing and varieties revealed that the crop sown on 15th December with AISb-50 (89.00%) registered significantly higher germination percentage over Basara (80.67%) whereas non- significant difference was noticed in 15th January sowing (Table 2). Uem and Unioeste (2003) reported that seeds from optimum sowing dates had higher percentage of germination than delayed planting due to favourable climatic conditions during seed development. Significantly higher seedling length was found in 15th December sown crop (30.50cm) whereas the varieties showed non-significant differences. In the interaction of dates of sowing and varieties, the variety JS-335 exhibited significantly higher seedling length (32.50cm) followed by AISb-50 (30.57cm) of 15th December. Kumar et al. (2011); Edje and Burris (1970) in soybean found that germination percentage and seedling length were observed to be low in delayed planting of niger. Similar reduction pattern in germination percentage was also reported by Rao and Wagle (1983) in soybean, Kalpana and Madhava Rao (1991) in pigeon pea and Tirakannanavar et al. (2006) in chickpea.\r\n Significantly superior seedling length might be due to high seed index, which might have supplied adequate food reserves to resume embryo growth. \r\nAssessment of seedling vigour index-I revealed the wide range of variation for dates of sowing which varied from 2131 to 2605. In case of varieties AISb-50 recorded high mean value (2447) and it was found to be on par with other two varieties. The interaction effect showed significantly higher vigour index-I in JS-335 (2803) and AISb-50 (2721) of 15th December crop over other interaction effects, whereas least vigour index-I was observed in JS-335 of 15th January. Significantly superior vigour index-I was found in 15th December sown crop irrespective of varieties studied. This could be due to congenial weather conditions during the crop growth period facilitated quality seed production. These results are in accordance with the findings of Rahman et al. (2013) who reported that optimum time of sowing had high vigour index.\r\n. Significant differences were observed in varieties and dates of sowing which ranged from 694.70 to 792.70 mg and from 648.03 to 838.40 mg respectively for seedling dry weight. Seed of 15th December showed significantly higher seedling dry weight (838.40 mg). With respect to varieties Basara (792.70 mg) exhibited superiority over AISb-50 (694.70 mg), while it was found to be on par with JS-335 (742.4 mg). Interaction effects revealed that all the three varieties with 15th December sowing recorded exhibited significant superiority over 15th January except with Basara. Reduction of seedling dry weight in seeds harvested from off season soybean was reported by Khan (2001). \r\nThe dates of sowing exhibited wide range of variation from 55429 to 71541 for seedling vigour index-II. The 15th December sowing had significantly higher seedling vigour index-II over 15th January whereas varieties showed non-significant differences. Among the interactions AISb-50 of 15th December exhibited significantly higher seedling vigour index-II (74571) while it showed least in 15th January sowing (48443). Among the varieties, JS-335 (25.70) and AISb-50 (24.38) registered significant superiority over Basara (19.68), whereas dates of sowing showed non-significant differences for the trait speed of germination. Among the six interaction effects, JS-335 of 15th December (26.07) exhibited superiority while lower speed of germination was observed in Basara of 15th January (19.53).\r\nAmong the varieties, JS-335 (83.17 %) and AISb-50 (76.50 %) and for dates of sowing 15th December (81.22%) exhibited significant field emergence. Among the different interactions studied, JS-335 (84.33%) and AISb-50 (84.33%) of 15th December sowing followed by JS-335 (82.0%) with 15th January sowing were found to be superior for this. The electrical conductivity was found to be significantly lower in JS-335 (37.02 µS cm-1g-1) and AISb-50 (38.62 µScm-1g-1) indicating more storability of these varieties. Whereas the variety Basara recorded very higher EC of 62.31 µScm-1g-1, these are similar with reports of Basra et al. (2003); Panobianco and Vieira (2007) in soybean.\r\nThis may be due to poor seed coat integrity which leads to increased leakage of electrolytes. The dates of sowing showed non-significant differences for this trait. \r\n','Kagita Navya, K. Parimala, M. Rajendar Reddy and A. Padmasri (2022). Effect of Planting Dates and Varieties on Seed Quality Paramertes of Off-Season Soybean (Glycine max L.). Biological Forum – An International Journal, 14(3): 143-146.'),(5239,'136','Evaluation of Novel Insecticides Alone and in Combination with Fungicides against Maize Fall Armyworm Spodoptera frugiperda (J.E. Smith)','Sandhya M.*, Vanisree K., Upendhar S. and Mallaiah B.','25 Evaluation of Novel Insecticides Alone and in Combination with Fungicides Against Maize Fall Armyworm Spodoptera frugiperda (J.E. Smith) Sandhya M.pdf','',1,'A field experiment was carried out at College farm, College of Agriculture, Rajendranagar, PJTSAU, Hyderabad to study the efficacy of new generation insecticides and fungicides alone and in combination against maize fall armyworm Spodoptera frugiperda (J.E. Smith). Fourteen treatments were found significantly superior over control in reducing the infestation of fall armyworm, among all the treatments chlorantraniliprole 18.5% SC was most effective, recorded highest mean percent reduction (80.60%)of fall armyworm population over control followed by a combination of Chlorantraniliprole 18.5% SC+ (Azoxystrobin 18.2% +Difenoconazole 11.4% SC) (76.87%). The mean percent incidence of fall armyworm was less in Chlorantraniliprole 18.5% SC (8.04) followed by combination product Lambda Cyhalothrin 4.6% + Chlorantraniliprole 9.3% ZC (9.19) which indicates their efficacy. (Carbendazim 12% + Mancozeb 63% WP) recorded 49.77 highest percent incidence indicating least effective against fall army worm.','Novel Insecticides, Fungicides, Fall armyworm, Spodoptera frugiperda (J.E. Smith) and Compatibility.','Many chemicals have been effective in managing S. frugiperda. As many of the diseases also coincide with pest attack farmers go for wrong combinations for both insect pest and disease which will lead to phytotoxicity and reduced efficacy. Experiments conducted on evaluation of efficacy on different insecticides and fungicides against S. frugiperda in maize clearly indicated chlorantraniliprole 18.5% SC was highly effective due to the high insecticidal property, quick knock down effect whereas carbendazim 12% + mancozeb 63% WP was least effective due to its non-insecticidal property. Among combinations chlorantraniliprole 18.5% SC + azoxystrobin 18.2% + difenoconazole 11.4% SC was highly effective. But there was no significant difference in the efficacy of combination chlorantraniliprole 18.5% SC with fungicides. Therefore, by knowing the compatibility of a particular insecticide in combination with a pesticide helps to reduce the cost of cultivation indirectly by reducing the number of sprayings.','INTRODUCTION \r\nMaize (Zea mays L.) is one of the most versatile crop having highest adaptability under varied agro-climatic conditions. Globally maize is known as queen of cereals because of its highest genetic yield potential among the cereals. It is cultivated on nearly 190 m ha in about 165 countries having wider diversity of soil, climate, biodiversity and management practices that contributes 39% in the global grain production. \r\nThe world’s total maize production was estimated at 1.05 million thousand tonnes in 2020. The United States of America is the largest producer of maize contributes nearly 36 per cent of the total production in the world. India produces 28.64 million tones of maize per year and stands seventh in position in maize production (DACNET, 2020). \r\nIn India maize is grown throughout the year, predominantly kharif crop with 85 per cent of the area under cultivation in the season. Maize is the third most important cereal crop in India after rice and wheat. It accounts for around 10 per cent of total food grain production in the country. In addition to staple food for human beings and quality feed for animals, maize serves as a basic raw material as an ingredient to thousands of industrial products that includes starch, oil, protein, alcoholic beverages, food sweeteners, pharmaceutical, cosmetic, film, textile, gum, package and paper industries. Maize is the second major cultivated crop in Telangana state with 2 million acres producing annually 2.9 million tonnes (Vyavasaya Panchangam, PJTSAU, 2019).\r\nThere are four major pests of maize prevalent in India viz., spotted stem borer Chilopartellus (Schinobi), pink stem borer Sesamiainferens (Walker), shoot fly Atherigona spp. and fall armyworm S. frugiperda (J.E. Smith). Among all the pests fall armyworm is causing serious damage to maize at all stages of its growth. In addition to the pests some of the diseases like charcoal rot, common rust, turcicum leaf blight occur simultaneously on maize. So, in order to reduce both pest and disease incidence farmers go for combination spray of both insecticide and fungicide which eventually leads to development of phytotoxicity, reduces the efficacy of one or the other pesticide. Therefore, there is a need to study the compatibility of insecticides and fungicides on maize. \r\n The combinations may be physically incompatible, effect the bio efficacy, result in phytotoxic effects or aid in insecticide resistance development in pests (Peshney, 1990; Miller et al., 2010). Injudicious use of pesticides in combinations without proper knowledge may reduce the efficacy of the combinations in managing the pests and diseases (Kubendran et al., 2009). \r\nThe occurrence of S. frugiperda was first reported from Karnataka in 2018. It is a polyphagous pest can feed on more than 80 species of crops including maize, sorghum, cotton, rice, millets, vegetable crops etc. (CABI, 2017). Damage is mostly done by mid to late larval instars. Young larvae feed on leaves leaving silvery transparent membrane, larvae feeding inside the whorls will make holes and faecal matter is seen inside the whorls, even silk, tassel and cobs are fed by the larvae. Yield reductions in maize due to feeding of fall armyworm have been reported as high as 34 per cent (Williams and Davis 1990). \r\nMATERIAL AND METHODS\r\nExperimentation on efficacy of new insecticides alone and in combination with fungicides against S. frugiperda was carried out in field conditions during rabi 2020-2021 at College Farm, Rajendranagar, Hyderabad located at an altitude of 630 m above mean sea level at 17o1915N latitude and 78o2433E longitude. Maize (DHM 121) was grown in natural conditions in an open field by following all the recommended agronomic practices. \r\nThe study includes a total of fourteen treatments viz., insecticides, fungicides and combinations. Four insecticides Lambda cyhalothrin + Chlorantraniliprole 15% ZC, Chlorantraniliprole 18.5% SC, Flubendiamide 39.35% SC, Azadirachtin 1500 ppm, two fungicide combinations (Azoxystrobin 18.2% + Difenoconazole 11.4% SC) and (Carbendazim 12% + Mancozeb 63% WP) (Table 1). Each treatment imposed at recommended dosage of insecticide or fungicide and replicated thrice following spray fluid @ 500 litres ha-1 with the help of a knapsack sprayer. Spraying was done at 15 and 30 days after sowing and an untreated control plot is also maintained in each replication as acheck. The pre-treatment count of S. frugiperda was recorded one day before treatment imposed and the data on fall armyworm damage was recorded during 0, 3, 7, 14 days after spraying. The per cent fall armyworm infestation was calculated using the formula given by Sisay et al. (2019).\r\nMean per cent efficacy of pesticide combination over control of S. inferens was calculated by using the following formula \r\nMean per cent efficacy over control= C-T/C × 100 \r\nC = per cent incidence or severity in control \r\nT = per cent incidence or severity in treatment \r\nPer cent population reduction over control was calculated by using the following formula\r\nThe mean data recorded during the experiment was statistically analysed in RBD as per Gomez and Gomez (1984). Per cent incidence or infestation was subjected to square root transformation and per cent population reduction over control was subjected to angular transformation. \r\nRESULTS AND DISCUSSION \r\nThe results of the present study rabi 2020-21are presented in Table 1 revealed that the mean percent incidence of S. frugiperda ranged from 8.04 (chlorantraniliprole 18.5% SC) to 79.62 (untreated Control). Among the different treatments Chlorantraniliprole 18.5% SC recorded less incidence of fall armyworm (8.04) with minimum damage recorded by fall army worm followed by (Lambdacyhalothrin 4.6% + Chlorantraniliprole 9.3% ZC) (9.19), Chlorantraniliprole 18.5% SC + (Azoxystrobin 18.2% + Difenoconazole 11.4% SC) (9.71), (Lambda cyhalothrin 4.6% + Chlorantraniliprole 9.3% ZC)+(Azoxystrobin 18.2% +Difenoconazole 11.4% SC) (11.86), Flubendiamide 39.35% SC (12.01), Chlorantraniliprole 18.5% SC + (Carbendazim 12% + Mancozeb 63% WP) (12.43), Azadirachtin 1500ppm (14.86), Flubendiamide 39.35% SC+ (Azoxystrobin 18.2% + Difenoconazole11.4% SC) (15.93), (Lambdacyhalothrin 4.6% + Chlorantraniliprole 9.3%ZC) + (Carbendazim 12% + Mancozeb 63%WP) (17.00), Azadirachtin 1500 ppm + (Azoxystrobin 18.2% + Difenoconazole 11.4% SC) (18.52), Flubendiamide 39.35% SC + (Carbendazim 12% + Mancozeb 63% WP) (20.52), Azadirachtin 1500 ppm + (Carbendazim 12% + Mancozeb 63% WP) (27.10), (Azoxystrobin 18.2% + Difenoconazole 11.4%SC) (40.80), (Carbendazim 12% + Mancozeb 63%WP) (49.77) in the increasing order of percent incidence.\r\nThe results presented in Table 2 revealed that Chlorantraniliprole 18.5% SC has recorded the highest population reduction of fall armyworm (80.60%) among all the treatments, followed by Chlorantraniliprole 18.5% SC + (Azoxystrobin18.2% + Difenoconazole 11.4% SC) (76.87%), Chlorantraniliprole 18.5% SC + (Carbendazim 12% + Mancozeb 63% WP) (75.76%), (Lambdacyhalothrin 4.6%+Chlorantraniliprole 9.3% ZC) (75.27%), Flubendiamide 39.35% SC(71.48), (Lambdacyhalothrin 4.6% + Chlorantraniliprole 9.3% ZC ) + (Azoxystrobin 18.2% + Difenoconazole 11.4% SC) (70.28%), (Lambdacyhalothrin 4.6% + Chlorantraniliprole 9.3% ZC) + (Carbendazim 12% + Mancozeb 63%WP) (68.85%), Flubendiamide 39.35% SC + (Azoxystrobin 18.2% + Difenoconazole 11.4%SC) (67.29%), Azadirachtin 1500ppm (62.28%), Flubendiamide 39.35% + (Carbendazim 12% + Mancozeb 63%WP) (60.01%), Azadirachtin 1500ppm + (Azoxystrobin 18.2%+ Difenoconazole 11.4% SC) (59.01%), Azadirachtin 1500 ppm + (Carbendazim 12% + Mancozeb 63% WP) (54.91%), (Azoxystrobin 18.2% + Difenoconazole 11.4%SC) (34.29%), (Carbendazim 12% + Mancozeb 63% WP) (25.55%) in the decreasing order of percent population reduction.\r\nThe results revealed that the mean percent population reduction ranged from 80.60 (chlorantraniliprole 18.5% SC) to 25.55 (untreated control) which indicates that there was high reduction of fall armyworm population in chlorantraniliprole 18.5% SC (Table 1). Among all the treatments chlorantraniliprole 18.5% SC recorded less incidence of fall armyworm compared to remaining treatments (Table 2). The cumulative per cent incidence of fall armyworm ranged from 8.04 (chlorantraniliprole 18.5% SC) to 79.62 (untreated control). \r\nAmong all the treatments chlorantraniliprole 18.5% SC was highly effective due to the high insecticidal property, it acts on ryanodine receptors of insects which make the insect inactive and knock down the insect quickly due to which the damage on leaves was reduced, whereas (carbendazim 12% + mancozeb 63% WP) was least effective due to its fungicidal property. \r\nThe present results were in conformity with earlier reports of Hardke et al. (2011) reported that chlorantraniliprole 18.5% SC, flubendiamide 39.35% SC, novaluron provided an effective reduction in infestation of fall armyworm in sorghum. Recent results of Bhuvaneswari and Krishnam Raju (2013) reported that chlorantraniliprole @ 0.3 ml in combination with hexaconazole @ 2 ml l1 recorded less incidence (8.3%), severity (12.8%) of sheath blight and also recorded less stem borer and leaf folder damaged leaves (1.9) per hill, concluding chlorantraniliprole 18.5% SC is very effective against lepidopteran caterpillars. \r\nIn the present study also, it is very effective against S. frugiperda. Results of Sharanabasappa Deshmukh et al., (2020) revealed that chlorantraniliprole followed by emamectin benzoate, spinetoram, flubendiamide, indoxacarb, lambda cyhalothrin and novaluron were highly effective in the decreasing order of efficacy. \r\n \r\n\r\n','Sandhya M., Vanisree K., Upendhar S. and Mallaiah B. (2022 Evaluation of Novel Insecticides Alone and in Combination with Fungicides against Maize Fall Armyworm Spodoptera frugiperda (J.E. Smith). Biological Forum – An International Journal, 14(3): 147-151.'),(5240,'136','Influence of Growth Regulators on different Nodal Cuttings in Guava (Psidium guajava L.) cv Lucknow 49','Sundarrajan R. V , Muthuramalingam S*, Rajangam J and Venkatesan K ','26 Influence of Growth Regulators on different Nodal Cuttings in Guava (Psidium guajava L.) cv Lucknow 49 R.V. SUNDARRAJAN.pdf','',1,'To evaluate the effect of different growth regulators on (Indole-3-butyric acid (IBA), Indole-3-Acetic Acid (IAA) and cytokinnin) on two different concentrations 200 and 500 ppm in various nodal cuttings of guava viz., single node, double node, triple node and leaf cuttings. The experiment was conducted in Horticultural College and Research Institute, Periyakulam, Tamil Nadu. Among the different nodal cuttings and plant growth regulators double nodal cuttings and IBA showed best response respectively. Double nodal cuttings with IBA 500 ppm recorded least number of days taken to bud sprouting and the maximum number of leaves (21.54), highest number of roots (30.25), highest carbohydrate content (6.55 %) and the highest nitrogen content (0.71) were observed in triple node cuttings treated with IAA 200 ppm. ','Guava, nodal cuttings, Indole-3-Acetic Acid, Indole-3-Butyric Acid and Cytokinnin','According to the study\'s findings, plant growth regulators had a significant influence on the growth parameters of guava cutting. Among different growth regulators, IBA 500 ppm showed highest success percentage, highest number of leaves, highest number of roots and highest carbohydrate content. Double node cuttings treated with IBA exhibited better success percentage, least number of days taken to bud sprouting, highest number of roots and leaves and high carbohydrate content performance compared to the IAA, Cytokinnin and control. The study concluded that the double node cuttings is recommended as along with IBA 500 ppm for successful propagation of guava cuttings.','INTRODUCTION\r\nGuava (Psidium guajava L.), the “poor man’s fruit” or “apple of the tropics” belongs to tropical and subtropical climate. It originates from Tropical America, which stretches from Mexico to Peru. Guava belongs to family ‘Myrtaceae’. There are 150 species in the genus Psidium, the majority of which are trees that bearing fruit. The majority of the cultivars are diploid (2n=22), although some are natural and artificial triploids (2n=33), which produce seedless fruits (Jaiswal and Nasim 1992). In India, the total area under guava cultivation was approximately 299 thousand hectares with an estimated annual production of 4394 lakh tons (NHB 2021). Under the wide range of climatic and edaphic conditions which helps for the successful growth in guava from sea level to 2,100 m altitude temperatures between 20 and 30°C, rainfall ranging from 1,000 to 2,000 mm per year, well-drained soils with high quantities of organic matter, and pH values ranging from 5 to 7 are ideal growth conditions (Yadava, 1996; Paul and Bittembender 2006). \r\nThe fruit contains vitamin-c (80 mg), crude fiber (0.9-1.0 g), protein (0.1-0.5 g), carbohydrates (9.1-17 mg), minerals like Calcium, Phosphorous, Iron and pectin (Kamath et al., 2008). Guava is appropriating a more popularity in recent years and were used in global trade because of their nutritional benefits and due to the production of many processed products such as jam, jelly, cheese, sharbat, ice cream, canned fruit, RTS, nectar, squash, and powders (Singh et al., 2005).\r\nGuava is commercially propagated using both vegetative and direct seedling methods, although commercial grade fruits can only be obtained when plants are propagated through vegetative progeny. Budding (Kaundal et al., 1987), air layering (Manna et al., 2004), stooling (Pathak and Saroj 1988), and inarching are all examples of air layering (Mukherjee and Majumdar 1983; Naithani et al., 2018) are all methods for vegetative growth of guava. Due to segregation and recombination of various features, the progeny of the direct seedling technique are not uniform. Furthermore, plants propagated by seeds bear fruit significantly later than plants propagated by cuttings.\r\nClonal propagation of guava is one of the method for ensuring progeny homogeneity and maintaining high quality fruits (Giri et al., 2004). To initiate with, true-to-type planting material is essential in guava orchards to assure both the quality and quantity of guava fruits (Singh et al., 2005).\r\nMultiplication through air layering in guava is time demanding but effective means methods of vegetative propagation. Several woody perennials have been successfully and swiftly propagated utilising various nodal cuts. Rapid propagation methods become essential in this setting when planting material is limited due to clone or variety shortages or fast acreage growth. As a result, it inspires the idea of using distinct nodal cuts as a quick growth method in guava.\r\nMATERIALS AND METHODS\r\nThe current research was organized in central nursery, Department of Fruit science, Horticultural College and Research Institute, Periyakulam during the year 2021- 2022. The experimental site was nearby lower Pulney hills range and the average rainfall is about 105 cm and it is situated with an elevation of 300m above Mean Sea Level. The campus was geographically located at longitude -77°35′59.28′′ East, latitude -10°7′41.88′′ North. The area experience a climate of mild winter with hot and humid summer. The experiment was laid out in Factorial Completely Randomized Design (FCRD) with two factors that were replicated thrice. viz., different nodal cuttings (4 levels) single node, double node, triple node and leaf cuttings and these cuttings were taken from five years old guava variety Lucknow-49. As propagation materials, cuttings were collected from healthy mother plants with uniform shoots. Plant growth regulators were treated to nodal cuttings through fast dip method for 45 seconds, with Indole-3-Butyric Acid (IBA) at 200 and 500 ppm, Indole-3-Acetic Acid (IAA) at 200 and 500 ppm, and Cytokinin at 200 and 500 ppm concentrations. After treatment, the various nodal cuttings were planted in polybags containing rooting media such as coco peat, vermiculite and saw dust. The terminal cuttings were kept in a mist chamber for 35 days and then in shade net for 10 days before being planted in an 8 × 10 inch plastic bag with a potting mixture of Red soil, sand, cocopeat and vermicompost in 1:1:1:1 proportion and kept in open conditions. For the study, used 600 cuttings in total, with each treatment consisting of twenty cuttings. Three months after planting, data were gathered by carefully uprooting the nodal cuttings, as indicated by Yeboan et al. (2009). The observations on various parameters at 30, 60 and 90 DAP were recorded and presented below (number of days taken to bud sprouting, success percentage, number of roots, root length, dry root weight, fresh root weight, leaf nitrogen, leaf carbohydrates and survival percentage).\r\nRESULT AND DISCUSSION\r\nA. Effect of PGR on number of days to bud sprouting and success percentage in guava cuttings\r\nSignificantly influenced the type of cuttings and growth regulators and their interaction were observed in number of days taken to bud sprouting (Table 1). Lowest number of days taken to bud sprouting (24.19) was recorded in triple node cuttings (C3) and highest number of days taken to bud sprouting (26.49) was observed in leaf cuttings (C4). Among growth regulators, the lowest number of days taken to bud sprouting (24.56) was recorded in IBA at 200 ppm (G1) and the maximum number of days taken to bud sprouting (25.98) was observed in control (G7). The minimum number of days taken to bud sprouting (23.90) was recorded in double node cuttings with cytokinin 200 ppm (C2G5) and the maximum number of days taken to bud sprouting (27.54) was observed in leaf cuttings with control (C4G7). Bud sprouting was induced by the food constituents present within the cuttings. This might be due to better utilization of stored carbohydrates, nitrogen in the nodal region due to IBA application. IBA boosts cell division which results on quick callus formation in the cutting as stated by Chauhan and Reddy (1971) in plum. Similar results were reported by Sivaprakash et al. (2018). Similar results were recorded by the Kumar et al. (2016). \r\nThe success percentage on different types of cuttings and growth regulators showed significant difference as well as their interactions were showed in (Table 1). The highest number of success percentage (73.92) was recorded in double node cuttings (C2) and the lowest number of success percentage (61.51) was observed in leaf cuttings (C4). Among growth regulators, the highest number of success percentage (74.51) were observed in IBA 500 ppm (G2) and the lowest number of success percentage (61.47) were recorded in control. The highest number of success percentage (80.25) were recorded in double node cuttings with IBA 500 ppm (C2G2) and followed by IBA 200 ppm (78.21) and the lowest number of success percentage (55.31) were recorded in leaf cuttings with Control (C4G7). In many fruit trees, auxins play an important role in the coordination of cutting roots. Wally et al. (1981) concluded that guava cuttings treated with IBA had the highest success rate.\r\nB. Effect of PGR on number of leaves in guava cuttings\r\nSignificant differences were observed in different nodal cuttings and growth regulators as well as their interactions on number of leaves 30 DAP (Table 2). The maximum number of leaves (3.60) was recorded in double node cuttings (C2) and the minimum number of leaves (1.14) were recorded in leaf cuttings. Among growth regulators, the maximum number of leaves (3.67) were recorded in IBA 500 ppm (G2) and the minimum number of leaves (1.02) in the control (G7). The maximum number of leaves (5.25) were observed in double cuttings with IBA 500 ppm (C2G2) followed by IBA 200 ppm (4.85) and the minimum number of leaves (0.56) were recorded in leaf cuttings with control (C4G7).\r\nNumber of leaves at 60 DAP (Table 2) varied significantly due to different types of nodal cuttings and different growth regulators with interactions between themselves. Double node cuttings (C2) recorded the highest number of leaves (6.34) and the lowest number of leaves (3.25) in leaf cuttings (C4). Among growth regulators, IBA 500 ppm recorded highest number of leaves (6.81) and the lowest number of leaves (2.53) in control (G7). The highest number of leaves (8.66) were observed in double node cuttings with IBA 500 ppm (C2G2) followed by IBA 200 ppm (7.15) and the lowest number of leaves (1.95) was observed in leaf cuttings with control (C4G7).\r\nThe data on number of leaves at 90 DAP showed significant difference in types of cuttings and growth regulators and their interactions (Table 3). Double node cuttings (C2) were observed highest number of leaves (16.11) and the lowest number of leaves (9.11) were observed in leaf cuttings (C4). Among growth regulators, IBA 500 ppm recorded highest number of leaves (18.52) and the lowest of leaves (9.45) were observed in control (G7). The highest number of leaves (21.54) in double node cuttings with IBA 500 ppm (C2G2) followed by IBA 200 ppm (17.83) and the lowest number leaves (6.19) was observed in leaf cuttings with control (C4G7). The increased number of leaves per cutting may be due to the plant diverting maximum assimilate quantities to the leaf buds, as the leaves are one of the production sites of natural auxins in them in addition to being very essential source for vital activities like as photosynthesis and respiration (Wahab et al., 2001).\r\nC. Effect of PGR on number of roots in guava cuttings\r\nThe significant difference on the different types of cuttings and growth regulators and their interactions were recorded on number of roots at 30 DAP (Table 3). Single node cuttings (C2) recorded the highest number of roots (4.98) and the lowest number of roots (4.63) were recorded in leaf cuttings (C4). Among growth regulators the highest number of roots (6.07) was observed in IBA 500 ppm (G2) and the lowest number of roots (3.84) was recorded in control (G7). The highest number of roots (6.31) were recorded in double node cuttings with IBA 500 ppm (C2G2) followed by triple node cuttings (6.25) with IBA 500 ppm (C3G2) and the lowest number of roots (3.83) were observed in leaf cuttings with control (C4G7).\r\nNumber of roots at 60 DAP (Table 4) varied significantly on the types of cuttings and growth regulators as well as their interactions between themselves. Double node cuttings (C2) recorded highest number of roots (11.27) and the lowest number of roots (5.28) in leaf cuttings (C4). Among growth regulators the highest number of roots (9.67) were recorded in IBA 500 ppm (G2) and the lowest number of roots (5.74) in control (G7). The highest number of roots (13.31) was observed in double node cuttings with IBA 500 ppm (C2G2) followed by IBA 200 ppm (12.09) and the lowest number of roots (3.26) were observed in (C4G7).\r\nNumber of roots at 90 DAP (Table 4) significantly varied on to the types of cuttings and growth regulators as well as their interactions between themselves. The highest number of roots (24.03) were recorded in double node cuttings (C2) and the lowest number of roots (17.05) in leaf cuttings (C4). Among growth regulators the highest number of roots (25.25) were recorded in IBA 500 ppm (C2) and the lowest number of roots (13.13) in control (G7). The highest number of roots (30.25) were observed in double node cuttings with IBA 500 ppm (C2G2) followed by IBA 200 ppm (27.88) and the lowest number of roots (9.36) were recorded in leaf cuttings with control (C4G7).\r\nAccording to Gurumurthy et al. (1984), the administration of IBA has been reported to enhance the cambial activity, leading in the mobilisation of reserve food material to the site of root initiation. Wounding promotes cell division by increasing the permeability of oxygen to the interior tissues in cuttings and the quantity of water absorbed from the base of cuttings, as well as increasing the amount of ethylene production, which encourages the emergence of roots (Hartmann et al., 2002). The impact of sucrose may be due to its impact on the auxin dose-response curve. Sucrose treatment may also improve rooting in the early stages of growth by enhancing ethylene production. The concentration of carbohydrates has the greatest influence on rooting in woody cuttings. Sucrose is a good carbohydrate source that provides direct energy to the cuttings (Yeboah et al., 2009).\r\nD. Effect of PGR on nitrogen and carbohydrate content in guava cuttings\r\nThe nitrogen content in root portion varied significantly on the influence of types of cuttings and growth regulators as well as their interactions at 90 DAP (Table 5). The highest nitrogen content (0.62 percent) were recorded in triple node cuttings (C3) and the lowest nitrogen content (0.38 percent) were observed in leaf cuttings (C4). The highest nitrogen content (0.57 percent) were observed in IAA 200 ppm (G3) and the lowest nitrogen content (0.45 percent) were observed in control (G7). The highest nitrogen content (0.71 percent) were recorded in triple node cuttings with IAA 200 ppm (C3G3) and the lowest nitrogen content (0.33) were observed in leaf cuttings with control (C4G7). Breen and Muraoka (1973) reported that nitrogen content is responsible for production of nucleic acids and proteins and these compounds were responsible for cell division and root initiation. The seasonal variation in plant occurs due to movement of nutrients on source and sink relationship. Therefore nitrogen is utilized by sink which produces new shoots.\r\nSignificant differences were observed in different types of nodal cuttings treated with different growth regulators and their interactions on carbohydrates content. The highest carbohydrate content were observed in double node cuttings (C2) and the lowest carbohydrate content (5.17) were recorded in the leaf cuttings (C4). Among growth regulators, the highest carbohydrate content (6.30) showed in IBA 500 ppm (G2) and lowest carbohydrate content (3.19) were observed in control (G7). The highest carbohydrate content (6.55) in double node cuttings with IBA 500 ppm (C2G2) followed by (6.43) IBA 200 ppm (G1) and lowest carbohydrate content (2.55) were recorded in leaf cuttings with control (C4G7).\r\nThis was related to the increase in catalase and peroxidase activity that coincided with the breakdown of starch to release specific sugars, such as the reducing sugar, and the decrease in total carbohydrates (Arslonov, 1976).\r\n','R.V. Sundarrajan, S. Muthuramalingam, J. Rajangam and K. Venkatesan (2022). Influence of Growth Regulators on Different Nodal Cuttings in Guava (Psidium guajava L.) cv Lucknow 49. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 14(3): 152-158.'),(5241,'136','Trend of Pesticide use for Mango Cultivation in Tamil Nadu','Paruchuri Pavan Kalyan, A. Suganthi*, K. Bhuvaneswari, C. Kavitha4 and P. Geetha','27 Trend of Pesticide use for Mango Cultivation in Tamil Nadu Paruchuri Pavan Kalyan.pdf','',1,'A study was conducted to know the perception of mango farmers on pesticide use and usage pattern in Krishnagiri and Dharmapuri districts of Tamil Nadu. Major pests damaging mango trees were mango hoppers, leaf webber, fruit fly, gall midge, nut weevil, shoot borer and stemborer. Most of the farmers follow calendar spray of pesticides (85%) and mango crop was sprayed three times from pre-flowering stage till harvest (45%). Imidacloprid (42.5%), malathion (17.5%), dimethoate (15%) and thiamethoxam (12.5%) were found to be widely used pesticides by farmers. Majority of the famers (77.5%) received recommendations for pesticides from pesticide dealers. Several farmers followed the common waiting period of one day after spraying. Farmers were found lacking knowledge on safe harvest interval, safety measures while undertaking a spray, label claim and pesticide residues, while they are well aware of mixing and measuring pesticides, storage and time of application of pesticides.','Mango, pests, pesticide, farmers, safety','This study provides a general overview of the magnitude of pesticide usage across Krishnagiri and Dharmagiri districts of Tamil Nadu. Organophosphates and neonicotinoids were most widely used and newer molecule like tolfenpyrad was also found to be helpful among farmers. Most of the farmers are taking up spray irrespective of the pest incidence, which cause unnecessary expenses to farmers. Pesticide overuse is responsible for rising production costs, environmental pollution, and decline in numbers of beneficial insects and pollinators. Farmers employed both recommended and non-recommended pesticides in mango orchards. Farmers perception of pesticide risk is changing, as seen by their use of measuring caps, avoidance of reusing pesticide containers for household use, and mixing pesticides with a stick. There is need to educate famers on IPM practices, waiting period and its importance. ','INTRODUCTION\r\nMango (Mangifera indica L.), is widely acknowledged as ‘King of fruits’ and ‘National fruit of India’ due to its delicious flavour, high nutritional content, and significant socio-economic role. It is an important member of Anacardiaceae family, which is cultivated in tropical and subtropical regions. The mango fruit is climacteric and increased ethylene production occurs during ripening. Regardless of its tenderness, either mature or ripe, mango fruit has a special significance. Mature green mangos are consume draw or as pickles. Ripened mangoes are processed into juice, squash, leather, jam, jelly (Siddiq et al., 2017). India tops the world in mango production with a total produce of 20.44 million m.t, which is grown in an area of 2.29 million hectares (National Horticulture Board, 2019-20). Mango exports from India in the year 2020-21 fetched 271.87 crore Rupees. Pesticide residues and quarantine pests (mango stone weevil and fruit fly) are the major reasons for notable reduction of exports from previous years (APEDA, 2021).\r\nThe mango crop is infested with around 260 insect and mite pests appearing at different stages of crop growth (Penna and Mohyuddin 1997). They attack during growth, flowering and fruiting stages which severely hampers the fruit production. To check these pests, farmers generally apply several diverse classes of pesticides. Indiscriminate use of pesticides will show adverse effects on the health of consumers (residues in commodity) and cause resurgence of pests. The load of chemicals on natural ecosystems has increased as a result of the industrialization of agriculture, which endangers the human health and environment (Nicolopoulou-Stamati et al., 2016). However, the positive results of pesticide use indicate that pesticides will remain an essential tool in pest management (Popp et al., 2013). In the wake of this, it becomes important to carry out a survey to know pests and pesticide usage pattern in mango ecosystem.\r\n \r\n\r\n\r\nMATERIALS AND METHODS\r\nStudy area. A survey was conducted from December, 2021 to January, 2022 to know the status of pests and pesticide usage practices in commercially grown mango orchards of major mango growing districts of Tamil Nadu viz., Krishnagiri and Dharmapuri (Fig. 1), based on the extent of cultivated area of about 31,176 and 16,509 ha, respectively (GOTN, Dept. of Horticulture). Forty mango farmers spread over in 12 villages were interviewed with a questionnaire (Table 1).\r\nData collection. A pre-structured questionnaire was employed, which sought to evaluate socio-economic, agricultural, and pest management factors at grass root level. Data was collected from 40 farmers through direct face-to-face interviews, using a questionnaire that was prepared in English and translated to local language (Tamil) for the convenience of famers (Fig. 2). The questionnaire was based on famers demographic details, education background, pest status, pesticide usage, source of information on recommended pesticides, attention towards labels, measurement and mixing of pesticide, safety methods followed, dosage of insecticides, type of sprayer used, time of spraying, number of spray, waiting period followed, spray intervals, handling and disposal of pesticide containers.\r\n\r\nRESULTS AND DISCUSSION\r\nDemographic factors of surveyed farmers. Demographic factors taken into consideration are age, gender, education, size of land holding, farming experience and family size of mango growers (Table 2). There are more men (92.50%) occupied in mango farming than that of women (7.50%). This finding is in conformity with the findings of Sekar et al. (2014). Regardless of the fact that women\'s participation in agricultural and production activities are well accepted, practically, only few women farmers have rights with farmlands (Ajani, 2008).\r\nThe average size of the family of the famers surveyed was 5.09 members. A large household size may indicate that more labour is required to carry out agricultural activities, to perform farm activities, which in turn reduces marketed surplus and prioritises subsistence over commercialization (Von Braun et al., 1994). Majority of the farmers (52.50%) surveyed were in the middle age group (35-50 years), while 40 percent of the farmers fall under old age group (>50 years) and around 7.5 percent belong to young age group (below 35 years). Many of the surveyed farmers (40%) were illiterate and they did not get any formal education, some farmers (17.50%) were educated till primary level and other farmers (22.50%) till secondary education and 17.5 percent farmers were educated till higher secondary level and very few (2.5%) completed their graduation. The abilities and capability to use information are improved by education, which improves awareness of adoption newer technologies. Farmers who are old and illiterate may find it difficult to accept new technologies.\r\nLand holding of 37.50 percent of the surveyed farmers was small in size (less than 2.5 acres), while 35 percent of farmers had medium size land (2.5 – 10 acres) land and the rest of the farmers (27.50%) had large size land (more than 10 acres). Majority of the farmers (47.50%) were having high farming experience of more than 10years, some other famers (27.50%) having medium experience (5-10 years), while others (25%) having low experience (less than 5 years).\r\nPest status in mango ecosystem. Various pests were found affecting mango trees across surveyed districts of Tamil Nadu (Table 3), which depicts that the most notorious pest was mango hoppers (100%). Other pests like leaf webber (90%), fruit fly (70%), nut weevil (65%), gall midge (57.5%), mealybug (47.5%), shoot borer (42.5%), stem borer (40%), leaf twisting weevil (37.5%), leaf miner (30%), red banded caterpillar (25%),hairy caterpillar (10%), rugose spiralling whitefly (7.5%), termite (7.5%) and red ant (5%) were also found to cause yield loss (Fig. 3). In Nepal, Ghimire et al. (2019), reported similar findings. In Vietnam, seed borer (Deanolis albizonalis) was found to be the major pest (Mele et al., 2001).\r\nAccording to farmers, pests that damage the flowers are of more importance as they damage inflorescence and that has an impact on the yield. All the farmers in both the districts reported that mango hoppers are infesting mango trees and are causing severe damage. Mango hoppers commonly occurs in the flowering season, suck the sap from the inflorescence and tender shoots and cause damage to the tune of 20- 100% (Sohi and Sohi, 1990). Leaf webber was also reported as a major pest that is inflicting severe damage in the trees by webbing and scraping the leaves. Overall pest incidence was more severe in Dharmapuri. Rugose spiralling whitefly, an invasive pest damaging the leaves was observed from Krishnagiri district.\r\nStatus of pesticides used in mango ecosystem. The data obtained from the survey revealed that commonly used pesticide for managing pests (Table 4) was imidacloprid (42.5%) followed by malathion (17.5%), dimethoate(15%), thiamethoxam (12.5%), acephate (12.5%), tolfenpyrad (10%), deltamethrin (10%), lambda cyhalothrin (7.5%), quinalphos (10%) and buprofezin (5%). Other combination products used among farmers are acephate (50%) + imidacloprid (7.5%), chlorpyriphos (50%) + cypermethrin (2.5%). Nair, (2018), reported similar results where most of the famers were using imidacloprid against mango hoppers.\r\nAmong these pesticides, quinalphos, acephate, and combination products which were used to control sucking pests and borers, were actually not recommended for mango pests by Central Insecticide Board and Registration Committee (CIBRC) of India. Mango is also vulnerable to many diseases like powdery mildew, anthracnose, fruit end rot for which farmers were also found to use fungicides such as carbendazim (15%), dinocap (12.5%) and mancozeb (12.5%) The toxicity profile of various pesticides and fungicides applied in mango ecosystem given in Table 4 was based on World Health Organisation (WHO) system of classification. No farmer was found to spray extremely hazardous (Ia) and highly hazardous pesticides (Ib). Majority of the chemicals applied by farmers fall under class (moderately hazardous group) which comprises imidacloprid, thiamethoxam, dimethoate, acephate, quinalphos, deltamethrin and dinocap, whereas malathion, buprofezin, tolfenpyrad belong to class ⅠⅠⅠ (slightly hazardous group). Carbendazim and mancozeb belong to class U (Unlikely to present acute hazard in normal use).\r\nMoreover, WHO has advised only trained individuals to use pesticides (WHO, 1991).\r\nPesticide usage pattern in mango ecosystem. Pesticide usage pattern practices by mango growing farmers (Table 5), shows that the source of information on pesticide recommendation was majorly from pesticide dealers (77.5%), followed by fellow farmers (12.5%) and Governments officials (10%). Similar results were reported by Singh et al. (2016). Majority of the farmers (87.5%) use bottle caps to measure pesticides, while few farmers (12.5%) measured pesticides approximately. Surveyed famers are less equipped when it comes to application of pesticides safely, but all the farmers (100%) are mixing pesticides using a stick. These findings are matching with the previous work done by Devi, (2010). Most of the farmers (87.5%) did not give attention to the label information, only 12.5% are reading the label before use, whereas Rijal et al. (2018) reported 66% of farmers were aware and follow the pesticide label. Only, 17.5% farmers sprayed pesticides at recommended doses, while majority of the farmers (82.5%) sprayed pesticides at approximate amounts.\r\nMost of the farmers followed calendar spraying. Irrespective of the pest incidence, they spray three times with an interval of 30 days. These results were in accordance with the findings of Ghimire et al. (2019). Contrastingly, Cubelo and cubelo (2021) reported that majority of the farmers are spraying seven times regardless of season, Mele et al. (2001) reported an average of 13.4 pesticide sprays per year. Only a few farmers (2.5%) practiced burying spent pesticide containers in the ground, whereas the majority of farmers (97.5 percent) disposed of empty pesticide containers in their own fields or in neglected areas. This was in accordance with Prakash et al. (2021). According to the results, majority of farmers (57.5%) were not following any safety precautions during pesticide handling, while 40 percent were wearing a mask and 2.5 percent of them were wearing gloves while pesticide handling. Similar results were reported by Nyakundi et al. (2012); Imane et al. (2016). In contrast, Reddy et al. (2011) reported that all the farmers use face mask while spraying.\r\nRocker sprayer (42.5%) and Foot sprayer (40%) were employed by most of the famers and few farmers were found to be using tractor mounted sprayer (17.5%). In contrast with these findings Ghimire et al. (2019) reported that foot sprayer (86.40%) was used to spray mango trees. About 92.5 percent farmers choose to spray the pesticides in the morning hours, only 7.5 percent famers were spraying at evening hours and no farmer took up spraying at the afternoon time. Around 12.5 percent farmers were not following any waiting period and they harvested fruits following the pesticide application on the same day, while 87.5% farmers followed one day waiting period. None of the farmers followed recommended waiting periods. This finding is in conformity with the findings of Sutharsan et al. (2014). The risk of pesticide residue on produce increased when the pesticide spray was done right before harvest (Jeyanthi and Kombairaju 2005). The result of this study was contrasting with findings of Rijal et al. (2018) who reported spraying interval of 15 days by 42.5 percent farmers, 30 days interval by another 42.5 percent and 15 percent were found to be spraying only when there is pest infestation.\r\n','Paruchuri Pavan Kalyan, A. Suganthi, K. Bhuvaneswari, C. Kavitha and P. Geetha (2022). Trend of Pesticide use for Mango Cultivation in Tamil Nadu. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 14(3): 159-166.'),(5242,'136','Axial Skeleton of Homing Pigeon (Columba livia)','K. Iniyah*, A. Kumaravel and R. Gnanadevi','28 Axial Skeleton of Homing Pigeon (Columba livia) K. Iniyah.pdf','',1,'The uniqueness of a bird includes its ability to fly, high metabolic rate and beak without teeth. The bones of birds are called as pneumatic bones since they are filled with air spaces. The pigeons are small billed birds with long wings and powerful flight musculature. They are strong and swift fliers and comes under Columbidae. The axial skeleton includes skull, vertebral column, ribs and sternum. The study is intended to provide a complete osteological profile of axial skeleton of Homing pigeon which supplement the anatomical data on pigeon and also to differentiate pigeon skeletal framework from other avian species.','Skull, vertebra, pigeon, sternum, ribs','Pigeon as on date is a semi-domestic animal and an integral part of every household due to the ascending stress curve. Hence the clinical medicine and treatment for pigeon has been in increasing stature. Though poultry practitioners are supposedly thinking that pigeon is another fowl it is not so as per the literature screened. Hence pigeon medicine is going to be an important area for poultry practitioners and hence pigeons anatomy and physiology deserves more attention. Hence this article will contribute in a long shot for pigeon and its effective treatment as the disease occurrence trend is becoming more and more.','INTRODUCTION\r\nThe unique characteristics of a bird include its ability to fly, small size, wings, feathers, high metabolic rate and beak without teeth. In mammals, the bones are filled with marrow while in birds since many bones are pneumatic, air spaces make up the majority of bones volume and hence they are harder and stronger but lighter. The axial skeleton includes skull, vertebral column, ribs and sternum.\r\nVertebral (spinal) column literally ‘backbone’ is a unique anatomical feature which categorizes the birds (Class Aves) under Phylum vertebrate. The neck of the bird is longest not only because of more number of cervical vertebras but is also more flexible due to its shape, allows a greater degree of movement i.e., a bird can move its head to groom lowest part of the body with its beak (Tarray et al., 2019). Compared to mammals, the trunk region with thoracic and lumbar segments of vertebra is less flexible in birds which make them to withhold the massive force generated by the flight muscles while moving its wings. This is because of synsacrum, fused thoracic vertebra, keeled sternum and ribs.\r\nAlthough the bones in the skeletal framework of birds look alike, there exists a significant difference in their proportion among different avian species. The study is intended to provide a complete osteological profile of axial skeleton of Homing pigeon which supplement the anatomical data on pigeon and also to differentiate pigeon skeletal framework from other avian species.\r\nMATERIALS AND METHODS\r\nThe present study was conducted on the homing pigeon carcass obtained dead to the department of Veterinary Anatomy, Veterinary College and Research Institute, Udumalpet, Tamil Nadu. The bones of pigeon were processed and collected by natural maceration technique (Raghavan, 1964). The different bones of various regions were segregated and then the morphological details of the individual bones were studied and compared with other avian species. \r\nRESULTS AND DISCUSSION\r\nThe axial skeleton of Homing pigeon comprised of skull, vertebral column, ribs and sternum (Nickel et al., 1977).\r\nSkull. The structure of bird’s skull has many implications on their feeding characteristics. As reported by Getty et al (1975), the suture between the bones of pigeon skull were also ossified and fused together. Nickel et al (1977) stated that the bones in the skull of a bird can be categorized into neurocranium and splanchnocranium. The neurocranium was formed by occipital, sphenoid, parietal, frontal, ethmoid and temporal bones. The splanchnocranium included premaxilla, nasal, lacrimal, maxillary, zygomatic, palatine, pterygoid, vomer, quadrate and mandible. \r\nAs reported by Aurell et al. (2011), the orbits in the cranium of homing pigeon were larger. The occipital bone presented a single occipital condyle below the foramen magnum which indicated that skull of homing pigeon was monocondylic which facilitated the bird to swirl its head upto 270 degrees. As described by Nickel et al (1977), the upper portion of beak and anterior boundary of nasal opening was formed by premaxilla which consisted of three processes – nasal, maxillary and palatine processes. The posterior boundary of nasal opening and the roof of nasal cavity was formed by nasal bone and was found in front of the frontal. The lacrimal bone formed the anterior margin of orbit as in domestic fowl (Getty et al., 1975). The palatine bone formed the lateral boundaries of posterior nasal opening and part of roof of oral cavity. \r\nVertebral Column. Vertebral column of homing pigeon was formed by the bones called vertebrae. Vertebral canal of vertebral column lodged the spinal cord as in mammals (Getty et al., 1975). The vertebral column of pigeon consisted of \r\n1) Cervical vertebrae \r\n2) Thoracic vertebrae \r\n3) Fused lumbar and sacral vertebrae i.e. Lumbosacral mass\r\n4) Coccygeal vertebrae\r\nIn homing pigeon, the neck region that connects the head to the trunk was formed by 12 cervical vertebras whereas in fowl it was 14 (Egwu et al., 2012), and in goose it was 17 (Nickel et al., 1977). Tarray et al. (2019) reported that number and shape of vertebras in the neck varied among different species of birds.\r\nAs reported by Nickel et al. (1977), first cervical vertebra – atlas, was ring shaped and was thinner than all other cervical vertebras. The dorsal arch of atlas was thinner in its middle than the ventral arch. Anteriorly, the ventral arch had a concavity for articulation with single occipital condyle and a small foramen above. Posteriorly, a transverse shallow facet was noticed in the ventral arch of atlas for articulation with odontoid process of axis - second cervical vertebra.\r\nThe bodies of 3rd to 12th cervical vertebrae were rod-like and the anterior extremity of body of each vertebra was concave in transverse direction and convex in dorso-ventral direction whereas posterior extremity was vice-versus as stated by Nickel et al (1977) in domestic fowl.\r\nThe vertebras that were well connected to ribs were referred as thoracic vertebra. As described by Getty et al (1975) in fowl, 7 thoracic vertebras were found in pigeon whereas in duck and goose it was 9. Thoracic vertebras were not fused with each other as stated by Nickel et al. (1977) in domestic fowl. The transverse processes were broad, plate-like and in its lateral border had a small facet for articulation with ribs. \r\nAs reported by Egwu et al. (2012), the lumbar and sacral vertebra in homing pigeon were fused and formed synsacrum or lumbosacral mass as in avian species. Synsacrum was found wedged between the pelvic bones i.e. ilium of either side. Anteriorly, the dorsal spines and transverse processes of synsacrum united with ilium whereas posteriorly only the transverse processes were connected with the ilium. The terminal part of vertebral column had coccygeal vertebra. The last three fused and formed three-sided pyramid called pygostyle. \r\nRibs. As described by Aurell et al. (2011), there were 07 pairs of ribs. The ribs were curved and had a head and tubercle in its proximal end. The ribs articulated with thoracic vertebra dorsally and to the sternum ventrally as in domestic fowl (Nickel et al., 1977). In middle of the shaft of first five ribs, there were projections directed posteriorly called as uncinate processes which was peculiar to birds.\r\nSternum. The sternum of pigeon was a flat quadrilateral bone with deeply concave dorsal surface (John et al., 2014) and convex ventral surface as in fowl (Nickel et al., 1977) and Pariah kite (Tomar et al., 2011). One of the unique features of a flying bird is the keeled or carinate sternum. The keel projected vertically from the ventral surface of sternum was broad, flat and well developed which indicated the power of flight in pigeon (Aurel et al., 2011). The keel was absent in non-flying birds like ostrich and emu (Jayachitra et al., 2015). The cranial border of keel was concave and thickened ventral border was steep and like an arch. The cranial angle of keel was pointed in pigeon whereas it was rounded in Pariah kite (Tomar et al., 2011).\r\nThe anterior border of the sternum presented two deep grooves on either side of rostrum for articulation with distal extremity of coracoid bone as noticed by Sathyamoorthy et al. (2012) in spot billed pelican. The rostrum was prominent in pigeon as in domestic fowl (Nickel et al., 1977) while it was absent in Pariah kite (Tomar et al., 2011).\r\nA short antero-lateral processes directed anteriorly were observed in antero-lateral angle as in duck (Jayachitra et al., 2015). Behind the antero-lateral processes, articular facets for four sternal ribs were found whereas in pigeon hawk (John et al., 2014), six articular facets were reported. A long flat postero-lateral processes directed caudally with two divisions were also observed from the lateral border of sternum. Among the two divisions, the medial divisions were short whereas the lateral divisions had shovel like broad endedas in domestic fowl (Nickel et al., 1977).\r\n','K. Iniyah, A. Kumaravel and R. Gnanadevi (2022). Axial Skeleton of Homing Pigeon (Columba livia). Biological Forum – An International Journal, 14(3): 167-170.'),(5243,'136','Seed Bio-priming with Fungal Endophytes for increased Seedling Performance in Rice var. IR 64','Shantharaja C.S.* and P. J. Devaraju','29 Seed bio-priming with Fungal Endophytes for increased Seedling Performance in Rice var. IR 64 Shantharaja C.S.pdf','',1,'Environmental stresses are limiting factors in optimal agricultural crop yield, and these stresses, especially drought and salinity, are likely to become more acute due to future climate change. Plant fungal Endophytes known to enhance early seedling vigour and growth particularly under stressful conditions. In order to enhance early seedling vigour a laboratory experiment was conducted using five fungal endophytes viz, LAS 6 (Chaetomium sp.), PJ 9 (Fusarium sp.), SF 5 (Fusarium sp.), V4 J (Botryosphariadothedia) and V6 E (Fusarium sp.) isolated from plant species grown in different habitat like drought, high temperature and saline region at Department of Seed Science and Technology, UAS, GKVK, Bengaluru. To assess the effect of endophytes, a seedling growth assay was conducted in rice var. IR 64 under normal condition (without stress), NaCl (170 mM) induced salinity stress and PEG-8000 (17 %) drought stress condition. The results showed that, the endophyte bio-priming had significantly increased early seedling growth and vigour. Under normal condition, the endophyte strain V4 J recorded significantly higher seedling length (42.2 cm), seedling dry weight (10.95 mg), and seedling vigour index I (3841) and II (1098) compared to control. Under NaCl induced salinity stress, the endophyte strain V6 E significantly increased the shoot length (13.1 cm) whereas, endophyte SF 5 had recorded significantly higher seedling length (24.0 cm), seedling vigour index I (2042) and II (807). Under PEG-8000 induced drought stress, V4 J strain had a maximum shoot length (14.6 cm), root length (23.7 cm) seedling length (38.3 cm) and seedling vigour index I (3213). The endophyte strain SF 5 has recorded a significantly higher seedling dry weight (8.79 mg) and seedling vigour index II (756) compared to control. The study concluded that, use of fungal endophytes can enhance early seedling growth and vigour under stressful conditions.','Endophyte, Drought, Salinity, Seedling vigour, Bio-priming','The endophyte bio-priming can be a potent tool in enhancing early seedling growth and development under controlled conditions. The endophyte-enabled seed enrichment conferred tolerance to abiotic stress, particularly salinity and drought. The endophytes enhanced seedling and plant growth irrespective of stress and unstress plants however, the per se effect is more under stress conditions.','INTRODUCTION\r\nThe high-quality seeds have significant contribution in increasing the production potential of agricultural crops. Quality seeds with enhanced vigour contributes to nearly 30 % of total production potential of crops(Ellis, 2004). Early seedling vigour is most important attribute of quality seeds which can be enhanced through various seed-based treatment technologies. A wide range of seed-based techniques are now used in crop production to improve seedling vigour, establishment and growth under the changing environmental constraints. \r\nSeed based treatment techniques may be differentiated into physical, physiological and biological seed enhancements. Under biological seed enhancements, various plant growth-promoting microbes have been used for many decades. Among various plant growth-promoting agents, plant endophytes are becoming more popular in agricultural research and have shown positive results in enhancing plant growth and development (Lin et al., 2013). These endophytes can be used as seed bio-priming agents because of their ability to colonize diverse plant host systems through symbiotic nature. The bio-priming technique integrates both biological and physiological aspects to protect the seed and promote growth (Afzal et al., 2016).\r\nEndophytes includes bacteria, fungi, and unicellular eukaryotes are a class of plant-associated microorganisms that have shown potential in agriculture (Murphy et al., 2013; Rodriguez et al., 2009). They live at least part of their life cycle inter- or intra-cellularly inside the plants, usually without inducing any pathogenic symptoms. Bacterial and fungal endophytes have shown promise as beneficial crop inoculants, and many are known to enhance abiotic and biotic stress tolerance in plants. \r\nIn the present study, an attempt has been made to evaluate the role of endophytes in enhancing early seedling growth and vigour through the seed bio-priming technique in Rice (Oryza sativa L.) as the rice is the most important food crop grown around the world, due to the ever-growing population and climate change, the pressure on the production system with available resources has become a challenging task in agricultural science. The major rice production area is reliant on water availability. Extensive cultivation of rice under lowland conditions has posed secondary salinization problems and making soil saline. Due to the scarcity of water in agriculture, direct-seeded/aerobic rice cultivation is gaining momentum. In this context, the use of endophytes to make crop systems more tolerant specifically at early growth stage to abiotic stress has become one of the research interests in agricultural science in developing sustainable agricultural production technology. In this context, a study was conducted to assess the effect of endophyte bio-priming on early seedling growth and vigour in rice var. IR 64 under normal (without stress), drought and salinity stress condition.\r\nMATERIAL AND METHODS\r\nEndophyte isolates. Five fungal endophytes isolate were collected from the School of Ecology and Conservation, UAS, GKVK, Bengaluru and listed in Table 1.\r\nSeed material. Rice (Oryza sativa L.) var. IR 64 seeds were collected from Seed Unit, Zonal Agricultural Research Station (ZARS), Mandya. \r\nPreparation of endophyte inoculums. A single hyphal tip from the actively growing endophyte fungi was cultured aseptically on PDA. Five-day-old colony culture was used to prepare mycelial suspension (Dhingra and Sinclair 1993). The mycelial suspension was prepared by washing the mycelial mat with sterile distilled water using a camel hairbrush. Spores/colony-forming units in the inoculum were counted using a haemo-cytometer under the light microscope. Further, the suspension concentration was adjusted to 2×106 spore/mycelia ml-1 and used for bio-priming.\r\nSeed bio-priming protocol. The mycelial suspension(2×106 spore/mycelia ml-1) of the respective fungal isolate was used to bio-prime 48 h of pre-germinated seeds and stirred occasionally for 3 h (Zhang et al., 2014). After 3 h of bio-priming, seeds were washed in sterile distilled water. One set of pre-germinated seeds was soaked in sterile distilled water and used as a control treatment. Each treatment was maintained with 4 replications, each replication with 50 seedlings. The final germination percentage, root and shoot length, seedling length and seedling dry weight, seedling vigour index I and II were recorded at the end of the fourteenth day. \r\n Induction of salt and drought stress. Salt stress was induced by using 170 mM (LC50) NaCl salt solution by moistening paper towels and moisture was maintained for 14 days. The control and the paper towels were moistened regularly either with water or NaCl solution. Drought stress was induced by using 17 % (LC50) PEG 8000 solution by moistening paper towels and moisture was maintained for 14 days. The control and the paper towels were moistened regularly either with water or PEG-8000 solution. \r\nStatistical design and analysis. Complete randomised design (CRD) and DMRT analysis were done using R -software.\r\nRESULTS AND DISCUSSION\r\nThe experiments were conducted using five fungal endophytes under three different conditions viz., normal condition (without stress), NaCl (170 mM) induced salinity stress, and PEG-8000 (17 %) induced drought stress. Seedling growth assay was conducted under laboratory condition to assess the effect of endophyte bio-priming in enhancing early seedling growth and vigour. Observations on final germination percentage, early seedling vigour traits like, shoot length, root length, total seedling length, seedling dry weight, and seedling vigour index (SVI) I and II were recorded.\r\nEffect of endophyte bio-priming on early seedling growth and vigour under without stress condition. Under without stress condition, the endophyte strain SF 5 (Fusarium sp.) recorded the highest final germination of 92 % followed by endophyte strain PJ 9 and V4 J with 91 % germination. Control (without endophyte treatment) recorded the lowest final germination percentage of 85 % which was not statistically significant compared to better treatment. The endophyte strain V4 J (Botryosphariadothedia) recorded the highest seedling length of 42.2 cm which is statistically significant compared to the control which was recorded the lowest seedling length of 33.6 cm. the treatments V6 E, SF 5, and LAS 6 were recorded 40.0 cm, 38.7 cm and 38.4 cm seedling length and which were significantly on par with better treatment (Table 2).\r\nThe results of present study were in agreement with previous studies where the increase in seedling growth was linked to the production of phytohormones by endophytes, namely gibberellic acids, auxins and cytokinins on rice growth. For instance, the fungus Cladosporium sphaerospermum produces gibberellins (GA7 and GA4), and the inoculation of this endophyte enhances rice biomass (Hamayun et al., 2009). Inoculation of plants with key growth regulators like indole acetic acid (IAA)-producing endophytic bacterium Burkholderia vietnamiensis improves rice growth and yield (Trân Van et al., 2000). IAA-producing endophytic fungal isolates from aromatic rice, positively regulate rice seed germination (Syamsia et al., 2015). Similarly, IAA-producing bacterial endophytes such as Micrococcus yunnanensis RWL-2, Micrococcus luteus RWL-3, Enterobacter soli RWL-4, Leclercia adecarboxylata RWL-5, Pantoea dispersa RWL-6, and Staphylococcus epidermidis RWL-7, were reported to promote rice shoot and root elongation, biomass production and chlorophyll content (Shahzad et al., 2017a).\r\nThe endophyte strain V4 J recorded a maximum seedling dry weight of 12.06 mg which was statistically on par with other treatments Viz, PJ 9, SF 5, and V6 E with the value of 12.03 mg, 11.91 mg, and 11.68 mg respectively. While control recorded significantly lower seedling dry weight (10.95 mg) values compared to better treatment. The treatment V4 J had shown increased seedling vigour index I of 3841 which was significantly higher compared to control (2854) and on par with SF 5 (3559) and V6 E (3518). The endophytic strain V4 J had a maximum value for seedling vigour index II OF 1098 which was not significantly different from the control (930). Lalngaihawmi et al. (2018) reported similar results upon treatment with fungal endophyte resulted in increased per cent germination, shoot length and root length in rice compared to control. Rice seeds inoculated with fungal endophytes promoted the growth of rice seedlings in term of seed germination, plant height, root length and degree of root colonization (Kundar et al., 2018). Zhi-lin et al. (2007) demonstrated similar results with significantly increased numbers of tillers, plant height, chlorophyll content, photosynthetic rate between endophyte-infected and endophyte-free plants, especially at the germination and seedling stages.\r\nEffect of endophyte bio-priming on early seedling growth and vigour under NaCl (170 mM) induced salinity stress. To study the effect of seed bio-priming with endophytes under induced saline stress condition, the paper towels were moistened with 170 mM NaCl solution and bio-primed seeds were used to study germination and seedling growth parameters analysis (Table 3). There was no significant difference found in germination % between the treatments and control. However, the endophytic strains viz, V6 E, SF 5, PJ 9, and LAS 6 recorded the highest value of 85 % while, control recorded the lowest germination of 79 % (Table 1). The endophyte strain V6 E significantly increased the shoot length with the value of 13.1 cm compared to the control which had 7.9 cm. the treatment was on par with the endophyte SF 5 (12.8 cm) treatment. The endophytic strain SF 5 recorded the highest root length of 11.3 cm, which was statistically on par with the control (9.6 cm). Among the endophyte strains tested, SF 5 had recorded the highest seedling length of 24.0 cm and which was on par with the treatments V6 E (23.5 cm), LAS 6 (22.3 cm), and V4 J (21.7 cm) but, significantly higher than the control (17.5 cm).\r\nThe GA-producing endophytic Bacillus amyloliquefaciens RWL-1 enhances growth, photosynthesis and biomass of rice seedlings subjected to salt stress by increasing salicylic acid (SA) and essential amino acid levels resulted in improvement in rice growth (Shahzad et al., 2017b). these findings indicate that the reduction of endogenous stress-responsive hormones, such as the senescence promoting ABA (Song et al., 2016) and the growth-inhibiting JAs (Pérez-Salamó et al., 2019; Wang et al., 2020), represents a crucial mechanism employed by phytohormone-producing endophytes to mitigate different stress responses in rice.\r\nThe Seedling dry weight was increased in seedlings treated with V4 J endophyte (9.68 mg) and which was on par with other treatments except for control (7.93 mg). The endophytic strain SF 5 treated seedlings showed increased seedling vigour index (SVI) I (2042) and seedling vigour index II (807) and it was significantly higher than the control which had SVI I of 1383 and SVI II of 626.\r\nFungal endophytes protect crops against abiotic stresses under laboratory conditions, as shown for salt (Baltruschat et al., 2008; Manasa et al., 2020). Megha et al., 2020, demonstrated that a salt-tolerant endophyte isolated from salt-adapted Pokkali rice, a Fusarium sp., colonizes the salt-sensitive rice variety IR-64, promotes its growth under salt stress and confers salinity stress tolerance to its host. The GA-producing endophytic Bacillus amyloliquefaciens RWL-1 enhances growth, photosynthesis and biomass of rice seedlings subjected to Cu stress and ameliorates the plant stress response by regulating Cu uptake, carbohydrate, and amino acid levels, and antioxidation (Shahzad et al., 2019).\r\nEndophyte and early seedling growth and vigour under PEG-8000 (17 %) induced drought stress. To study the effect of seed bio-priming with endophytes under drought stress condition, the paper towels were moistened with 17 % of PEG-8000 solution and bio-primed seeds were used to study germination and seedling growth parameters analysis (Table 4). The data on germination percentage was found non-significant due to treatments. However, LAS 6 endophyte recorded the highest germination percentage of 87 %, and the control recorded 81 %. The endophytic strain V4 J had a maximum shoot length of 14.6 cm which was on par with endophyte V6 E (13.6 cm), while the control recorded a significantly reduced shoot length of 11.9 cm. \r\nThe root length was significantly increased in the seedlings treated with endophyte V4 J (23.7 cm) which was on par with SF 5 (21.2 cm) but significantly higher than the control (14.3 cm). As for as seedling length is concerned, endophyte V4 J recorded a significantly higher seedling length of 38.3 cm compared to all other treatments and the control recorded a seedling length of 26.2 cm. Similar results were reported by earlier researchers are in agreement with our present study where they showed that, reduction in stress-induced membrane damage in endophyte-inoculated rice, mirrored by lower malondialdehyde (MDA) content, has been reported (Li et al., 2012; Kakar et al., 2016; Jaemsaeng et al., 2018; Qin et al., 2019b; Shahzad et al., 2019; Sun et al., 2020; Tsai et al., 2020). High ABA levels have been associated with reduced water-deficit in endophyte- inoculated rice. ABA-producing Salicaceae endophytes reduce stomatal conductance, density and leaf water potential, enhancing water use efficiency (WUE) under drought conditions (Rho et al., 2018).\r\nThe endophyte strain SF 5 has recorded a significantly higher seedling dry weight of 8.79 mg which was statistically on par with V4 J (8.67mg) and V6 E (8.63 mg) and the control recorded a lower seedling dry weight of 7.47 mg. Endophytic strain V4 J had recorded higher seedling vigour index I (3213) and it was on par with SF 5 (2967) while, the control had a significantly lower value of 2123. The seedling vigour index II was found significantly higher in seedlings treated with SF 5 endophyte (756) while control recorded lower SVI II of 605. \r\nComparable results were reported by earlier findings, where, fungal endophytes protect crops against abiotic stresses under laboratory conditions, as shown for heat and drought (Redman et al., 2002; Bailey et al., 2006; Hubbard et al., 2014; Ali et al., 2018) stresses.Similar results were reported using P. indica, fungus has shown its multifarious functions in various fields like hardening of tissue culture plants, seedling germination, vegetative growth, early flowering, nutrient acquisition, increase yield, biotic stress tolerance and abiotic stress tolerance like drought, salinity, stress, heavy metal stress through various mechanisms (Singh et al., 2003; Sahay and Varma 1999; Waller et al., 2005; Sherameti et al., 2005; Yadav et al., 2010; Kumar et al., 2011; Jogawat et al., 2013; Das et al., 2012; Ansari et al., 2014; Rabiey et al., 2015; Ye et al., 2014; Hui et al., 2015; Sharma et al., 2015). Similarly, Sangamesh et al. (2018) evaluated thermo-tolerance of the isolates by culturing the fungi at 40 °C and 45 °C and showed that, LAS-6 (Chaetomium sp.) conferred high-temperature tolerance and other three OTUs, namely, LAS-4 (Aspergillus sp.), SAP-3 (Aspergillus sp.) and SAP-6 conferred drought tolerance in ricecultivar, IR-64, at the early seedling stage under drought stress.\r\n','Shantharaja C.S. Nethra N. and P.J. Devaraju (2022). Seed bio-priming with Fungal Endophytes for increased Seedling Performance in Rice var. IR 64. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 14(3): 171-178.'),(5244,'35','A Study on Power Transformer condition Monitoring Technology','M.A. Khan and R.K. Taksande','7 M.A KHAN.pdf','',4,'The electricity market deregulation seeks to achieve competitive prices without compromising system relevance, reliability and safety, so transformers need to age with acceptable performance. The purpose of this work was to determine if a particular condition monitoring technique could be applied to complex natures, new materials, and extreme environments within the energy industry. If successful, it improves safe working conditions and complements traditional applications. Power transformers contain a variety of complex materials and shapes. Some transformers are exposed to extreme environmental conditions and others rotate at high speeds. Of the various condition monitoring methods, dissolve gas analysis and partial discharge were considered to be the most promising. The main results of this survey are: Various condition monitoring studies were compared for early failure detection and real-time condition monitoring. Matching the status of age and wealth will be an important tool. Monitoring to avoid unplanned outages, economic loss of revenue, environment all damage.','Condition Monitoring, Power Transformer, Partial Discharge Analysis','-','-','-'),(5245,'4','A Review on Solar Photovoltaic Power Plant Monitoring','R.K. Taksande and M.A. Khan','26 M.A. KHAN.pdf','',1,'Concerns about the global environment and rising energy demand, coupled with steady advances in renewable energy technology, create new opportunities for the use of renewable energy resources. Photovoltaic technology is one of the best ways to harness the energy of the sun. This paper outlines regular inspections of solar panels are important to extend their lifespan and ensure the performance of their solar systems. Intelligent surveillance and control systems allow you to take advantage of the maximum solar potential of your photovoltaic system. Surveillance and control systems are rapidly gaining popularity due to their easy-to-use graphical interfaces for data acquisition, monitoring, control, and measurement.','Monitor system and solar photovoltaic technology.','-','-','-'),(5246,'38','Solar Forecasting Methodologies',' R.K. Taksande and M.A. Khan','48 Solar Forecasting Methodologies MA KAHAN.pdf','',1,'Use of photovoltaic (PV) panels in power generation is the most widely used renewable energy source today. But this solar power energy source is highly susceptible to fluctuations and easily affected by variations in weather conditions over the area. At such times, solar forecasting models play a key role for operators to manage the operations of generation units such as balancing the fluctuations and extracting, supplying and maintaining maximum output power. Maximum Power Point Tracking (MPPT) technique is the technique offently preferred in photovoltaic (PV) systems to extract the maximum power inspite of climatic variations. In this paper various solar forecasting methodologies are discussed. Out of the various MPPT methods, the perturbation and observation (P&O) method is widely used. ','Maximum Power Point Tracking (MPPT), Perturb and Observe (P & O) method, Solar forecasting','-','-','-'),(5247,'136','Lantana camara as a Potential Secondary host for Natural Populations of Santalum album in Foothills of Himalayas: A hope to stand along with Noxious Weed','Dushyant Sharma and Kumari Shiwani*','30 Lantana camara as a Potential Secondary host for Natural Populations of Santalum album in Foothills of Himalayas A hope to stand along with Noxious Weed Kumari Shiwani.pdf','',1,'Being hemi root parasite, Santalum album L. relies greatly on its host for nutrients and water from seedling to maturity, though in the early stages it derives its nutrient requirements from the seed reservoir and soil. Deep rooted perennial hosts help in sustained growth of S. album. A field study was conducted in three regions namely, Kangra, Bilaspur and Hamirpur of Himachal Pradesh, India in natural populations of Santalum album L. a high valued tree known for its fragrant wood and scented oil, with the aim to confirm and understand its parasitic association with noxious weed species Lantana camara. L. Morphological and anatomical studies confirmed the presence of Santalum album haustoria parasitizing roots of Lantana camara growing in its vicinity. This root association implies that in the absence of preferable, leguminous host species, Santalum album successfully parasitize the roots of Lantana camara to meet out the nutritional and water requirement for its growth and development. Our study is probably the first to report the dependency and preference of Santalum album on Lantana camara in foothills of Himalayan region and these findings may have important implications for encouraging plantations of Santalum album in areas which are so far invaded by noxious weed Lantana camara and where there is no/ minimum possibility of growing any other crop or tree species, to meet out its long-term host/ secondary host requirements for growth and survival which further enhance the Sandalwood production and reduce the pressure on existing natural population.','Ecology, host, Lantana camara L., root parasitism, Santalum album L','We identified the parasitic association of S. album on roots of L. camara which implies that in the absence of reported preferable host species, S. album successfully parasitize the L. camara with its functional haustoria thereby, trying to meet the nutritional and water requirement. Further this acted as long term secondary host for the better survival and growth of the tree. So, it is suggested to encourage the plantation of economically important S. album in the areas which are already invaded by L. camara and where there is no/ minimum possibility of growing any other crop or tree species, to meet out its long-term host/ secondary host requirements for growth and survival. ','INTRODUCTION\r\nSandalwood, Santalum album L. belongs to the family Santalaceae known for its fragrant wood and scented oil (Rocha et al., 2017). It is hemi root parasitic tree partially relying on its host to take water and nutrients (Francis et al., 2019). Sandalwood is indigenous to India covering an area of 9600 Km2 (Gairola et al., 2007), mostly grown in states like Karnataka and Tamil Nadu (Kumar et al., 2012, Kausar et al., 2014, Rocha et al., 2017). Isolated populations of S. album grow in various states of India such as Bihar, Gujrat, Haryana, Maharashtra, Madhya Pradesh, Orrisa, Punjab, Rajasthan, Uttar Pradesh, West Bengal, Assam and Himachal Pradesh. \r\n The ecology, growth and host preferences of S. album has been well documented (Zhang et al., 2012, Lu et al., 2013, Yang et al., 2014, Rocha et al., 2017, Lu et al., 2014, Doddabasawa et al., 2020, Doddabasawa and Chittapur 2021). Different researchers have studied the physiology of root parasitism in both pots as well as field/natural populations and observed the interaction between hemi parasitic S. album and different host species. The host-dependent physiology of S. album in association with N2-fixing and non N2-fixing plant species revealed the preference of mixed plantation of S. album with Dalbergia odorifera, a potential N2-fixing host species (Lu et al., 2014). Further, S. album is also specific in choosing compatible host partners. S. album is known as parasite of more than 300 species from trees to grasses known to form haustoria (Rocha et al., 2017, Nagaveni and Vijayalakshmi 2007). One of the population dynamics studies in S. album populations of Himachal Pradesh revealed Lantana camara as dominant associated shrub species.\r\n Lantana camara L. is a noxious alien weed belonging to family Verbenaceae. This invasive weed is mostly native to subtropical and tropical America was initially brought to India in 1807 to the National Botanical Garden as an ornamental plant (Kohli et al., 2006, Negi et al., 2019). L. camara is reported to intrude forests of Himalayan Foothills, where it has virtually replaced the forest floor vegetation and reduced trees growth (Negi and Kandpal 2003). The infestations of L. camara are very persistent and have the potential to block succession and displace native species also compete with native colonizers and can interrupt the regeneration process of the other indigenous species. In sub-temperate, sub-tropical and tropical forests this shrub is mainly associated with Acacia catechu, Dalbergia sissoo, Pinus roxburghii and Tectona grandis (Ray and Ray 2014). Li (2016) and Teixeira da Silva et al. (2016) suggested that along with other tree species like Acacia auriculiformis, Acacia confuse, Albizia lebback and Cajanaus cajan, Lantana camara can be a suitable host for S. album in China. Nevertheless, to the best of our knowledge too little or no information is available to support these findings in Indian context. \r\nTherefore, a survey was conducted in three districts of Himachal Pradesh to find out the parasitism ecology of S. album under natural population with shrub weed L. camara to address the following questions, 1) Does S. album actually parasitize the L. camara (host) with specialized absorbing structure called haustorium? and 2) Does the haustoria of S. album penetrate host epidermis and cortex establishing a true connection between them? Identifying and understanding the association between both these species would yield important clues on the theoretical and practical significance for encouraging the plantation of economically important S. album tree to meet out its long-term host (secondary host) requirement in lands which are so far invaded by L. camara and further where there is no/minimum possibility of growing any other crop or tree species.\r\nMATERIALS AND METHODS\r\nThe survey was carried out in the year 2021‒2022 at three regions namely, Kangra (latitude 31° 41’ 00” N and longitude 75° 35’ 34” E), Bilaspur (latitude 31°18’00” N and longitude 75°55’00” E) and Hamirpur (latitude 31° 41\' 26.8188\'\' N and longitude 76° 31\' 3.7740\'\' E), Himachal Pradesh, India where Santalum album was recorded as a major tree species growing closely in association with weed shrub species L. camara (Fig. 1A and 1 B). These regions fall in sub-tropical, low hill zone of the state distributed along an altitudinal gradient of 500-700 mamsl with average annual rainfall of 1000-1400 mm. The soils of the surveyed area are characterized as slightly acidic having sandy loam to clay loam texture.\r\nThe aim of the investigation was to confirm the presence of hautsorial connections between S. album and L. camara growing together. From all the 3 surveyed sites, 20 mature trees of S. album having average girth of 30 cm were randomly selected at a minimum distance of 100 m from each other. Further, 5 mature plants of L. camara at a minimum distance of 2 m and maximum 5 m in radius of each selected S. album tree were excavated with the help of spade and uprooted for further examination. The haustorial associations present on roots of selected L. camara plants were carefully observed and 10 established haustoria on primary, secondary and tertiary roots of each selected host (L. camara) along with host roots were harvested for further anatomical examination. Host roots along with haustoria were wash clean of soil and thin microscopic sections (Longitudinal section) were taken out by following standard procedures of fixing. These sections were examined and images were captured using Fluorescent microscope. Figures were assembled using Microsoft Office Publishers.\r\nRESULTS AND DISCUSSION\r\nThe established haustoria of S. album on L. camara roots were observed in all of the regions surveyed (Fig. 1C). The S. album haustoria were seen attached to primary, secondary as well as tertiary roots of L. camara (Fig. 1, D-F). The presence of haustoria in the host roots indicated the possibility of translocation of water and nutrients from L. camara to S. album. The average number of haustoria host-1 roots were recorded in the range of 50‒100. Maximum number of haustoria were recorded in tertiary roots as compared to the primary and secondary roots. This may be due to the fact that main root playing comparatively lesser role in the absorption of water and nutrients in plants (Daddabasawa and Chittapur 2021). Newly initiated haustoria of S. album were bell-shaped, tapering proximally by a narrow stalk joining onto its parent root. When the initial haustoria come in contact with compatible host roots they flatten against the surface and initiate the transition into the young haustoria. \r\nFor the first time we investigated the anatomy of S. album haustoria attached to roots of noxious weed L. camara and noticed the close vascular connection between both the species. Following attachment to L. camara host roots, intrusive cells of haustoria penetrate the host epidermis and cortex between host cells (Fig. 1, G and H).\r\nSimilar observations on association between parasite and host plant species have been reported for Orbanche (Lane et al., 1991) and Striga (Losner-Goshen et al., 1998). Anatomical section of S. album haustorium consisted of two regions, one external to the host root, the hyaline body, a structure with high metabolic activity and the penetrating peg, that makes the initial contact with the host roots and penetrate the host tissue. Following the initial haustorial penetration and upon reaching the host root cambium, the penetration peg flattened out laterally to form a thin ellipsoidal disc (Fig. 2). These observations are in conformity to the findings of Tennakoon and Cameron (2006), who investigated the morphology and anatomy of haustoria formed by S. album attached to one of its principal hosts Tithonia diversifolia. \r\nThe parasitic nature of S. album and formation of haustoria in different host species have been reported by various researchers (Rocha et al., 2017, Lu et al., 2014, Doddabasawa and Chittapur 2021, Rocha et al., 2014). However, most parasitic and physiological studies were conducted on nitrogen fixing and non-nitrogen fixing plant species like Cajanus cajan (Nagaveni and Vijayalakshmi, 2003), economical horticultural crops like Mangifera indica and Phyllanthus emblica (Viswanath et al., 2014) and Citrus aurantium (Singh et al., 2014).\r\nIntimate vascular connectivity between S. album and roots of other host species was earlier observed and reported (Rocha et al., 2017, Tennakoon and Cameron, 2006), which revealed the absence of direct lumen-to-lumen xylem connection between xylem of hosts and S. album. This confirms that movement of xylem sap from the host to parasite occurs principally via pits of host xylem elements.\r\nSimilar findings were observed in S. album haustoria and L. camara roots in our studies (Fig. 1, I). Further, functional status of the haustorial connection between L. camara and S. album by radio-labelling the host (L. camara) are required to confirm this observation.\r\n','Dushyant Sharma and Kumari Shiwani (2022). Lantana camara as a Potential Secondary host for Natural Populations of Santalum album in Foothills of Himalayas: A hope to stand along with Noxious Weed. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 14(3): 179-183.'),(5248,'136','Studies on effect of Biostimulants on Growth, Yield and Quality of Mango (Mangifera indica L.) cv. Imam Pasand under Ultra High Density Planting (UHDP) System','Pritesh Priyaranjan, J. Rajangam*, K.R. Rajadurai, K. Venkatesan and V. Premalakshmi','31 Studies on effect of Biostimulants on Growth, Yield and Quality of Mango (Mangifera indica L.) cv. Imam Pasand under Ultra High Density Planting (UHDP) System J. Rajangam.pdf','',1,'A field experiment was carried out in Western block, Department of Fruit Science, Horticultural College and Research Institute, TNAU, Periyakulam during 2021-22 to study the effect of different biostimulants on growth, yield and quality of mango cv. Imam Pasand under UHDP system. The experiment was laid in Randomized Block Design with thirteen treatments replicated thrice and each replication had three trees. The treatments comprised of Seaweed extract (0.1%, 0.2%, 0.3%); Panchagavya (1%, 2%, 3%) and Fulvic acid (1%, 2%, 3%) [applied in soil through drip laterals] and Vermiwash (1%, 2%, 3%) [applied as foliar spray] and control. The treatments were applied twice, first at pre flowering stage and second after fruit set (pea or marvel stage) in mango trees. The results obtained clearly showed that, the biostimulants had a significant effect on mango trees. Among the treatments imposed, 3% vermiwash recorded maximum plant height; increased leaf area, total chlorophyll content and nutrient content (N, P, K) in the leaves, and also recorded maximum yield per tree and higher fruit quality such as TSS, titratable acidity and total sugars compared to other treatments and control.','Mango, Biostimulants, Seaweed extract; Panchagavya, Fulvic acid, Vermiwash','From the above results, it is clearly indicated that all biostimulants had a positive effect on the Mango cv. Imam Pasand growth, yield and quality. Foliar application of Vermiwash 3% recorded maximum plant height; maximum leaf area, total chlorophyll content and leaf nutrient content. Furthermore, vermiwash 3% recorded higher yield and fruit quality such as TSS, total sugars and lower titratable acidity compared to other treatments. Hence foliar application of Vermiwash 3% can be recommended for Mango cv. Imam Pasand for better crop growth, yield and quality.','INTRODUCTION \r\nIndia is owed with varied climatic conditions, which favours cultivation of a wide range of fruit crops from tropical, subtropical and temperate zones to arid and semiarid regions. One of the important fruit crops in which India is leading in production is Mango, a tropical crop but can be grown in subtropical regions (Parthiban et al., 2020). Mango belongs to the family Anacardiaceae and originated in South-East Asia. It is an evergreen tropical fruit tree, delicious and it is a choice fruit in India. It is known to be \"The King of Fruits\" due to its delicious taste, flavour, attractive colour, nutritive value and superior fragrance (Kumar et al., 2021).\r\nIndia produces about 50% of World Mango production, having the largest area under production (Parthiban et al., 2020). Recently, due to changing climate and undesirable biotic and abiotic stresses the quantity and quality of Mango fruits are getting degraded. To prevent this, practice of various types of chemical fertilisers and pesticides are used, having an undesirable effect on the natural environment as well as human beings. Implementation of organic substances such as biostimulants instead of chemical fertilizers is necessary to raise and maintain soil fertility and health as well as food quality (Mosa et al., 2021). Biostimulants can be defined as “natural or synthetic substances that can be applied to plants, seeds or soil which can cause changes in vital physiological or structural processes to enhance the growth of plants by improving their abiotic stress resistance and enhancing fruit yield and quality” (Jatin et al., 2020). These are non-fertilizer products that have beneficial effects on plant growth and do not contain any chemicals or synthetic substances.\r\nKeeping the above points into account, a study was under taken with an objective to study the effect of biostimulants on growth, yield and quality of mango cv. Imam Pasand under UHDP system.\r\nMATERIALS AND METHODS\r\nThe experiment was conducted at Field No. 5, Western block, Department of Fruit Science, Horticultural College and Research Institute, Tamil Nadu Agricultural University, Periyakulam, Theni, Tamil Nadu (Latitude 10°12N and longitude 77°59E) during the year 2021-22. The spacing between Mango plants cv. Imam Pasand was 3 × 2 m. The biostimulants used were Seaweed extract, Panchagavya, Fulvic acid and Vermiwash each with three different concentrations. The detail of the treatments imposed in this study were given in Table 1.\r\nThe biostimulants seaweed extract, panchagavya and fulvic acid were applied through drip laterals as soil application and vermiwash was applied as foliar spray. The treatments were applied to the trees twice viz., first at the pre flowering stage and second after fruit set (at pea or marvel stage).The treatments were replicated thrice in Randomised Block Design (RBD). A total of one hundred and seventeen trees of same height, vigour and disease free with drip irrigation were selected for the experiment (three trees for each treatment). All the selected trees were provided with uniform horticultural practices viz., fertigation, irrigation, pruning etc. were followed during the experimentation period. \r\nThe growth parameters such as plant height, leaf area, total chlorophyll content of the leaves and leaf nutrient content (N, P, K) were recorded. Increase in plant height was recorded by measuring the difference between the initial plant height before start of the experiment and final plant height at the end of the experiment. Five mature leaves were selected randomly from each replication trees-1 for determination of leaf area, total chlorophyll content and leaf N, P, K content. Yield per plant was recorded at the harvest stage. Quality parameters such as total soluble solids, titratable acidity and total sugars were also recorded. Experimental data were analysed statistically by following the analysis of variance (ANOVA) method (Panse and Sukhatme 1967).\r\nRESULTS AND DISCUSSION\r\nA. Growth attributes\r\n(i) Plant height (cm). Maximum increase in plant height (43.66 cm) was observed in Vermiwash 3% and lowest plant height increase was recorded in control (19.79 cm) (Table 2). The presence of humic acids, fulvic acids, beneficial microorganisms, enzymes, hormones and multi nutrients in Vermi wash promotes plant growth, by further enhancing the metabolic activities and secretion of plant metabolites responsible for cell division and cell enlargements. Similar results were obtained by Thakriya et al. (2017) in mango. \r\n(ii) Leaf Area (cm2). Foliar application of 3%Vermiwash in Mango trees significantly enhanced the leaf area. Maximum leaf area of 76.35 cm2 was recorded in Vermiwash 3% and the control (52.90 cm2) showed minimum leaf area than other treatments (Table 2). This might be due to presence of different plant growth regulators as well as various nutrient contents in vermiwash which helps in improving the vegetative characters of the plants. Moreover, vermiwash hinders the accumulation of Na+ in plants and provides tolerance to salt stress and maintains the normal growth. Similar results were observed by Singh et al. (2010) in Strawberry; Aremu et al. (2012) on Banana; El-Hameid and Adel (2018) in Mango; and Bidabadi et al. (2017) in Pomegranate.\r\n(iii) Total Chlorophyll Content (mg/g). Increased total chlorophyll content was recorded with Vermiwash 3% (2.79 mg/g) and control (1.83 mg/g) shows the lowest chlorophyll content (Table 2). The results may be due to presence of phytohormones and multi nutrients and humic and fulvic acids in vermiwash increased the growth and ultimately photosynthetic efficiency in plants. Vermiwash also had a reduced chlorophyll loss in salt stressed plants which further increases the photosynthetic efficiency of the plants. Similar results were noticed by El-Hameid and Adel (2018) in Mango; and Bidabadi et al., (2017) in Pomegranate.\r\n(iv) Leaf Nutrient Content (%). Application of biostimulants significantly increased the leaf N, P and K content than control. Highest leaf N, P and K were recorded in vermiwash 3% viz., N (2.88%), P (0.18%) and K (1.73%) and lowest N (1.72%), P (0.09%) and K (1.73%) in control (Figs. 1, 2 and 3). This might be due to the presence of higher humic acid in vermiwash which resulted in higher absorption of these nutrients. Vermiwash also contains N, P, K as earthworms enhance the nitrogen cycle in soils, mineralize the phosphorous during vermicomposting and change of potassium content from non-exchangeable form to exchangeable form. The obtained results in this study were in agreement with Singh et al. (2010) on Strawberry; El-Hameid and Adel (2018) on Mango; Bidabadi et al. (2017) on Pomegranate; and Arthur et al. (2012) on Tomato.\r\nB. Yield and quality attributes\r\n(i) Fruit Yield (kg tree-1). Maximum yield per tree was recorded with Vermiwash 3% (5.60 kg) and minimum yield per tree was recorded with control (2.03 kg) in Mango cultivar Imam Pasand (Table 3). This might be due to presence of enzymes, microorganisms, growth stimulating hormones and multi nutrients such as N, P, K, Ca, Mg, S, Fe, Mn, Zn and Cu in vermiwash. This favours the accelerated mobility of photosynthates from the source to sink which increases the fruit weight of Mango. Vermiwash also helps in reduction in incidence of various diseases and pests and malformed fruits and it increased the calcium content in cell wall which delay softening and mould growth and contains significant amount of micronutrients. So, it increases number of healthy fruits and hence, increase the yield of trees. Similar results obtained from Strawberry (Singh et al., 2010); Mango (El-Hameid and Adel 2018); Mango (Sathe and Patil 2014) and on Chilli (Sundararasu 2016).\r\n(ii) Total Soluble Solids (TSS) [° Brix]. Vermiwash at 3% concentration was recorded maximum TSS (19.92 ° Brix) and minimum TSS was recorded in control (16.35 °Brix) (Table 3). This might be due to presence of macro as well as micro nutrients in vermiwash like N, P, K, Mg, Zn, Ca, Fe and Cu and also certain microorganisms. The plant growth regulators which increases the absorption of nutrients from soil and ultimately increased the TSS in fruits. Similar results were recorded by Singh et.al, (2010) in Strawberry; and El-Hameid and Adel (2018) on Mango.\r\n(iii) Titratable acidity (%). As the fruits ripen, the acidity of fruits decreases, the lowest titratable acidity was observed in Vermiwash 3% (0.20 %) and highest acidity in control (0.29 %) (Table 3). Presence of humic substances in vermiwash helps in the absorption of nutrients from the soil by the plants. The presence of plant hormones like auxins and cytokinin helps in growth and development of fruits, prevents the uptake of toxic elements and the complex substances such as carbohydrates, proteins and fats were converted into simple forms which further increases the quality and reduces the acid content. The obtained results of this study were in agreement with Singh et.al, (2010) in Strawberry, Sathe and Patil (2014) on Mango, El-Hameid and Adel (2018) on Mango; and Dheware et al., (2020) on Mango.\r\n(iv) Total Sugars. Highest total sugars was recorded in Vermiwash 3% (14.41%) and lowest in control (10.66%) (Table 3). It happens because of higher amount of simple sugars in ripen fruits which are being formed by breakdown of the complex molecules like carbohydrates. This was induced by vermiwash due to presence of certain microorganisms which produces ripening enzymes and hormones. Vermiwash provides a variety of macro and micro nutrients that are readily available to plants by foliar spray, and the humic compounds included in vermiwash boost nutrient absorption and improve the physiological processes of fruit ripening, eventually increasing total sugars in fruits. Similar results were obtained from Singh et.al, (2010) in Strawberry, Sathe & Patil, (2014) on Mango and El-Hameid and Adel, (2018) on Mango.\r\n','Pritesh Priyaranjan, J. Rajangam, K.R. Rajadurai, K. Venkatesan, V. Premalakshmi (2022). Studies on effect of Biostimulants on Growth, Yield and Quality of Mango (Mangifera indica L.) cv. Imam Pasand under Ultra High Density Planting (UHDP) System. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 14(3): 184-188.'),(5249,'22','A Study on Power Transformer condition Monitoring Technology','M.A. Khan and R.K. Taksande','18 M.A. KHAN.pdf','',1,'-','-','-','-','-'),(5250,'136','Yield Performance of Groundnut (Arachis hypogaea L.) varieties under varied Soil Moisture Regimes of micro Sprinkler Irrigation','A. Mamatha*, K. Sridhar, K. Avil Kumar and D. Vijaya Lakshmi','32 Yield Performance of Groundnut (Arachis hypogaea L.) varieties under varied Soil Moisture Regimes of micro Sprinkler Irrigation A. Mamatha.pdf','',1,'Groundnut crop has specific moisture requirements due to its unique feature of producing underground pods.The rabi crop produces a significantly higher yield as compared to the kharif crop and requires irrigations due to limited rainfall during the winter season. Finding the right irrigation schedule can reach a production breakthrough. Thus, a research was carried to evaluate the performance of groundnut varieties under varied soil moisture regimes of microsprinkler irrigation at RARS, Palem during rabi 2021-2022. The experiment was laid out in strip plot design comprising of four irrigation levels as main treatments and three groundnut varieties as sub treatments with 12 treatment combinations replicated thrice. Results revealed that yield and yield attributing characters of microsprinkler irrigation at 0.8 Epan and Check basin irrigation at 0.8 IW: CPE ratio are on par though there is marginal increase in check basin irrigation. Irrigation scheduled at 0.8 IW: CPE ratio with check basin method has recorded higher dry matter production (7619 kg ha-1), number of pods plant-1 (36.3), test weight (36.78 g), pod yield (3050 kg ha-1). This improvement was mainly due to maintaining adequate soil moisture at frequent intervals during the crop growth period. Among the varieties, K-6 recorded higher yield over K-1812 and TAG-24.','Groundnut, Microsprinkler, Soil moisture, Varieties, Pod yield','Results of the present investigation revealed that irrigation scheduled with check basin irrigation at 0.8 IW/CPE ratio recorded significantly higher yield attributing characters i.e., numbers of pods plant-1, test weight and shelling percentage, pod yield, kernel yield, haulm yield which was statistically on par with microsprinkler irrigation at 0.8 Epan. Among the groundnut varieties studied greater yield was obtained from variety K-6 over K-1812 and TAG-24, respectively.','INTRODUCTION\r\nGroundnut (Arachis hypogaea L.) is a key oilseed and food-legume crop for both humans and livestock in tropical and subtropical regions between 40°N to 40°S and is also considered as the king of oilseed crops which can be grown during rainy, winter and summer seasons. But its production needs to be enhanced to meet the national shortage. Worlds production figure of groundnut in the year 2019 was 48.8 million tonnes with an average production of 1647 kg ha-1 (Abdulrahman et al., 2021). It occupies a predominant position in the Indian oilseed economy and during rabi, 2020-21, groundnut was sown in around 2.70 lakh ha in India as compared to previous year (2.15 lakh ha). Among the states, Telangana stood first in area coverage with 1.14 lakh ha followed by Karnataka with 1.01 lakh ha (Groundnut outlook-PJTSAU, 2022). The two key inputs in irrigated agriculture are water and fertilizer, while maximum benefits can be extracted only if the irrigation is scheduled with proper nutrient supply during its crop growth stages (Soni et al., 2019). Finding the right irrigation schedule can help reach a production breakthrough. Thus, the use of a micro-irrigation system comprising of micro-sprinkler systems offers a great degree of control over water and fertilizer application to meet the requirement of crops (Waseem et al., 2018). Irrigation scheduling by these systems is usually based on the water requirement of the crop to maintain the favorable soil moisture content in the root zone, which helps to achieve sustained growth and yield gains up to 100 percent, water savings up to 40 to 80 percent over conventional irrigation systems (Soni and Raja 2017). Timely availability of irrigation is the key factor that determine the groundnut productivity during the critical stages (Balasubramanian et al., 2020). Higher productivity of the groundnut crop is gaining popularity under assured irrigation (Behera et al., 2015). At the same time choice of varieties is also major factor to obtain maximum production under limited moisture supply (Kumar et al., 2021). Among the varieties grown, K6 is the predominant variety (>90 %) followed by TAG 24 and Kadiri Lepakshi (K-1812), a newly released high yielding groundnut variety that is also becoming very popular and widely cultivated by the farmers of Telangana state. By considering the above facts, the present study was undertaken in three groundnut varieties K-6, TAG-24, and K-1812 to evaluate the yield and yield attributes of groundnut under micro-sprinkler irrigation. \r\n\r\nMATERIALS AND METHODS\r\nThe experiment was conducted during Rabi 2021-22, in the C-6 block at Regional Agricultural Research Station, Palem which is geographically situated at 16°3049.98N latitude and 78°1506.60E longitude at an altitude of 478 m above the mean sea level of Telangana state. The mean weekly maximum and minimum temperatures during the crop growth period ranged from 28.2°C to 37.2°C and 15.0°C to 24.7°C, respectively. The soil was sandy loam in texture.\r\nThe experiment was laid out in a strip plot design with three replications with 12 treatment combinations consisting of 4 main treatments(Irrigation regimes) viz., I1: Micro sprinkler irrigation at 20 centibars soil moisture potential, I2:Micro sprinkler irrigation at 40 centibars soil moisture potential, I3: Micro sprinkler irrigation at 0.8 Epan, I4: Check basin irrigation at 0.8 IW: CPE ratio and 3 sub treatments (Varieties of groundnut) viz.,V1: K-6, V2: TAG-24, V3: K-1812.\r\nThe field was uniformly levelled for micro-sprinkler and check basin treatments and the crop area sown was 22.5×10 cm. A uniform dose of NPK @40:40:50 N-P2O5-K2O kg ha-1 respectively was applied through urea, single super phosphate (SSP) and muriate of potash (MOP). Gypsum was applied @500 kg ha-1 during initial pegging stage. In treatments I1 and I2, the microsprinkler irrigation was scheduled by monitoring soil moisture potential by installing the watermark sensors at a different depths of 0-20 cm and 20- 40 cm in the crop root zone. The irrigation was commenced whenever the soil moisture potential reached in the upper sensor at 20 cm soil depth to a pre-determined potential i.e. 20 and 40 centi bars critical soil moisture potential in treatments I1 and I2, respectively. The irrigation scheduling was for I3 and I4 at 0.8 Epan with microsprinklers and IW/CPE ratio of 0.8 with check basin method respectively.\r\nFive plants at random from border rows leaving extreme row were destructively sampled for estimation of dry matter production. Number of pods were counted from five randomly labelled plants at harvest and averaged which is expressed as number of pods plant-1, 100 kernels were randomly drawn from composite sample from the kernel yield from each plot, weighed and expressed in gms, one kg of sun dried pods were taken from a composite sample from each plot, shelled and weight of the kernels were recorded. Shelling percentage is calculated by dividing weight of kernels to the weight of pods which is expressed as percentage, pod yield, kernel yield, haulm yield and harvest index from each plot were calculated. Harvest index is calculated by dividing pod yield to the biological yield (pod yield + haulm yield) which is expressed in percentage.\r\nThe data generated on various parameters studied during the course of investigation were statistically analyzed by applying the standard technique of analysis of variance suggested by Gomez and Gomez (1984) for strip plot design.\r\n\r\nRESULTS AND DISCUSSION\r\nA. Yield and yield attributing characters\r\nDry matter production (DMP) of groundnut was significantly influenced by the irrigation regimes at harvest (Table 1). Highest DMP was recorded in check basin irrigation at 0.8 IW/CPE ratio (7804kg ha-1) which was on par with microsprinkler irrigation at 0.8 Epan (7333kg ha-1). This may be due to supply of optimum irrigation level and efficient nutrient uptake which resulted in better branching and increased number of leaves plant-1 which contributed for higher DMP. Lowest DMP was recorded with microsprinkler irrigation at 40 centibars soil moisture potential (6508kg ha-1). This might be due to less frequent irrigations. Similar results were computed by Soni and Raja (2017). Among the varieties, K-6 registered significantly higher DMP (7910 kg ha-1) over K-1812 (7346 kg ha-1) and TAG-24 (6243kg ha-1) respectively. This might be due to higher number of leaves plant-1 with more number of branches in variety K-6 than TAG-24. Similar results were reported by Soumya et al. (2011); Priya et al. (2016). The interaction effect between irrigation regimes and groundnut varieties was found non-significant.\r\nMaximum number of pods plant-1 were observed in check basin irrigation at 0.8 IW/CPE ratio (36.3) which was on par with microsprinkler irrigation at 0.8 Epan (35.4) and microsprinkler irrigation at 20 centibars soil moisture potential (35.3) and lowest number of pods plant-1 were recorded with microsprinkler irrigation at 40 centibars soil moisture potential (32.2) (Table 1). This might be due to consistent application of water in the vicinity of crop root zone which resulted in better development of pods plant-1. These results were in accordance with (Waseem et al., 2018 and Annadurai et al., 2012). Among the groundnut varieties, K-1812 recorded significantly greater number of pods plant-1 (36.7) over TAG-24 (32.4) but was on par with K-6 (35.3). This may be due to compact growth with short statured nature of K-1812 resulted in reduced internodal length which finally lead to easy peg penetration. These results are in agreement with the (Priya et al., 2016; Prathima et al., 2012). Minimum number of pods plant-1 were recorded with TAG-24 (32.4). The interaction effect between irrigation regimes and groundnut varieties was found non-significant.\r\nTest weight was not significantly influenced by different irrigation regimes as well as the interaction effect between irrigation regimes and groundnut varieties (Table 1). However, higher test weight was obtained in check basin irrigation at 0.8 IW/CPE ratio (36.78 g). These results are in accordance with those of Behera et al. (2015). Among the groundnut varieties studied, significantly greater test weight was observed in variety K-6 (36.67g) over K-1812 (34.17g) and TAG-24 (32.00g). This may be due to varietal inherited characters i.e., kernel size and shape. Similar results were reported by Priya et al. (2016).\r\nShelling percentage was not significantly influenced by different irrigation regimes (Table 1). However, maximum shelling percentage was observed in check basin irrigation at 0.8 IW/CPE ratio (64.7 %) followed by microsprinkler irrigation at 0.8 Epan (63.0 %), microsprinkler irrigation at 20 centibars soil moisture potential (62.8 %) and minimum shelling percentage was recorded with microsprinkler irrigation at 40 centibars soil moisture potential (59.8 %). These results are in conformity with those of Naresha et al. (2016); Behera et al. (2015); Bure et al. (2011). Among the groundnut varieties studied, significantly higher shelling percentage was recorded in variety K-6 (66.0 %) over K-1812 (61.2 %) and TAG-24 (60.5 %). These results are having similarity with Priya et al.,2016 and Soumya et al., 2011. The interaction effect between irrigation regimes and groundnut varieties was found non-significant.\r\nThere is a significant difference in the pod yield of groundnut with the irrigation levels and highest pod yield was recorded when irrigation scheduled at 0.8 IW/CPE ratio with check basin irrigation (3050 kg ha-1) which was statistically on par with microsprinkler irrigation at 0.8 Epan (2915 kg ha-1) and microsprinkler irrigation at 20 centi bar soil moisture potential (2703 kg ha-1) and lowest was recorded in microsprinkler irrigation at 40 centibar soil moisture potential (2331 kg ha-1). This might due to the maintenance of adequate soil moisture at frequent intervals during the crop growth period and high nutrient availability leading to better nutrient uptake and higher number of pods which ultimately resulted in higher yield. These results are in accordance with Vijayalakshmi et al. (2011) and similar findings were reported by Suresh et al. (2013) who concluded that higher pod yield in groundnut at 1.0 and 0.8 IW/CPE ratio. Among the groundnut varieties, K-6 (2950 kg ha-1) recorded significantly higher pod yield which was on par with K-1812 (2833 kg ha-1) and lowest pod yield was recorded in TAG-24(2467kg ha-1) (Table 2). This might be due to genetic potential of those varieties in terms of higher test weight, shelling percentage. The interaction effect between the irrigation levels and groundnut varieties was not significant.\r\nThe kernel yield of groundnut was significantly influenced by different irrigation regimes as well as groundnut varieties (Table 2). Maximum kernel yield of groundnut was obtained in check basin irrigation at 0.8 IW/CPE ratio (1977 kg ha-1) and was statistically superior over all the treatments viz., microsprinkler irrigation at 0.8 Epan (1802 kg ha-1), microsprinkler irrigation at 20 centibars soil moisture potential (1695kg ha-1) and minimum kernel yield was registered with microsprinkler irrigation at 40 centibars soil moisture potential (1390kg ha-1). This might be due to frequent irrigations which created favorable environment for the crop growth and all the yield promoting characters were significantly higher with check basin irrigation at 0.8 IW/CPE ratio. These results are in conformity with Vaghasia et al. (2017); Pawar et al. (2013). Among the groundnut varieties, K-6 recorded significantly higher kernel yield (1949kg ha-1) over K-1812 (1722 kg ha-1) and TAG-24 (1477kg ha-1). This may be due to genetic potential of the varieties viz., test weight, shelling percentage Meena et al. (2015). The interaction effect between the irrigation levels and groundnut varieties was found non-significant.\r\nThe haulm yield of groundnut was significantly influenced by different irrigation regimes as well as groundnut varieties (Table 2). Significantly higher haulm yield was noticed in check basin irrigation at 0.8 IW/CPE ratio (4602kg ha-1) over microsprinkler irrigation at 20 centibars soil moisture potential (4161kg ha-1) and microsprinkler irrigation at 40 centibars soil moisture potential (3998 kg ha-1)but was on par with microsprinkler irrigation at 0.8 Epan (4263kg ha-1). This may be due to greater soil moisture availability with increased nutrient uptake which in turn led to more vegetative growth resulting in higher haulm yield. These results are also lined with (Behera et al., 2015; Vaghasia et al., 2017). Among the varieties, K-6 registered significantly greater haulm yield (4859kg ha-1) than TAG-24 (3427kg ha-1) but was on par with K-1812 (4483kg ha-1). This could be mainly due to the genetic potential of the varieties and nutrient uptake by the plants. The interaction effect between the irrigation levels and groundnut varieties was found non-significant. The results validate the findings of Priya et al. (2016); Bhargavi et al. (2017).\r\nHarvest index was not significantly differed among the irrigation regimes (Table 2). However, it was reported higher in microsprinkler irrigation at 0.8 Epan (40.6 %) and lowest harvest index was recorded in microsprinkler irrigation at 40 centibars soil moisture potential (37.1 %). These results are in accordance with (Rathore et al., 2014; Soni et al., 2019). Among the groundnut varieties, significantly greater harvest index was registered in variety TAG-24 (41.0 %) over K-6 (37.6 %) but was on par with than K-1812 (38.5 %).This might be due to short statured nature of TAG-24 which led to reduced haulm yield (Priya et al., 2016). The interaction effect between the irrigation levels and groundnut varieties was found non-significant.\r\n','A. Mamatha, K. Sridhar, K. Avil Kumar and D. Vijaya Lakshmi (2022). Yield Performance of Groundnut (Arachis hypogaea L.) varieties under varied Soil Moisture Regimes of micro Sprinkler Irrigation. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 14(3): 189-193.'),(5251,'136','Effect of Ultraviolet-C Irradiation on Storability of Sapota','Charan Singh*, Navnitkumar Khimjibhai Dhamsaniya and Pankaj Kumar Jemalbhai Rathod','33 Effect of Ultraviolet-C Irradiation on Storability of Sapota Charan Singh.pdf','',1,'Sapota is a climacteric fruit and suffers high postharvest losses due to its quick ripening property. Sapota is also highly susceptible to fungi such as black mold rot, anthracnose, sour rot and blue mold rot. Ultraviolet-C irradiation has shown potential in increasing the shelf life of the product by reducing microbial count, inducing a beneficial hormesis effect and delaying ripening. In the current study, the sapota samples of kalipatti variety were treated with UV-C doses of 2.5, 5, 7.5 and 10 kJm-2 to check its effect on the decay count and total aerobic bacterial count. The treated and untreated samples were stored at a temperature of 12±1⁰C and relative humidity of 85-90%. The UV-C radiation significantly reduced the total aerobic bacterial count of treated sapota fruits compared to untreated fruit at all doses. UV-C irradiation also significantly reduced the decay count of sapota fruit. The untreated fruit suffered a higher decay count during storage and displayed a shelf life of 14 days. However, shelf life of more than 21 days was observed in treated samples. Compared to the fruits treated with lower doses, the fruits treated with higher UV-C doses displayed a lower decay count. UV-C irradiation significantly reduced the initial plate count from 3.5± 0.1log cfu/g to a minimum of 1.70 ± 0.015 log cfu/g in fruits treated with a dose of 10 kJm-2. The fruits treated with a dose of 10 kJm-2were at par with the fruits treated with a dose of 7.5 kJm-2.','Ultraviolet-C, Sapota, Shelf-life, Aerobic bacterial count, Postharvest losses','UV-C irradiation has shown potential in reducing the decay and microbial count of the sapota. The shelf life of sapota under controlled conditions (12±1⁰C temperature and 85-90% relative humidity)was only 14 days whereas treated fruit displayed a shelf life of more than 21 days. The higher doses displayed a lower decay count compared to the control. The minimum surviving bacterial was observed in fruits treated with a dose \r\nof 10 kJ m-2. However, there was no significant difference between 7.5 and10 kJ m-2 doses. Based on the significant reduction in the surviving bacterial population and reduced decay count, it can be concluded that UV-C irradiation can be used for enhancing the shelf life of the sapota fruit.\r\n','INTRODUCTION\r\nFood is a major necessity and important factor for human civilization. Despite advancements in technology, humans are still struggling to provide food security. In the year 2020, around 821 million people faced hunger and this number is expected to be as high as 660 million in 2030 (FAO, 2021). The efficient utilization of the food and avoiding food loss might help in solving the problem of hunger. According to the food loss index, 14% of the total production is lost till it reaches the retail level. Among food products, fruits and vegetables are most susceptible to spoilage. In Sub-Saharan African countries, farm losses ranged from 0-50% for fruits and vegetables. As per a meta-analysis of Asia and sub-Saharan, 33% of losses in fruits and vegetables were incurred (FAO, 2019). India incurs losses of 30-40 per cent which amounts to 40 million tons (US$ 13 billion) due to improper transportation, cold chains, storage structure and infrastructure etc. (Rajasri et al., 2014). Indian farmers are unable to sell even 40% of the total fruits and vegetables produced, which amounts to 63,000 crore rupees (Pandey, 2018).\r\nSapodilla or Sapota is an evergreen tropical plant of the Sapotaceae family. It is native to Central America and Southern America (Ankalagi et al., 2017). The total sapota fruit production of India in 2021-22 was 834.08 metric tonnes with Gujarat being the top producer (273.87 metric tonnes) (Anon., 2022). Sapota is known for its quick ripening and it deteriorates very fast after reaching its climacteric peak. The postharvest losses of sapota are as high as 20-30% (Salunkhe and Desai 1984) which extend up to 30-35 per cent at the end of the distribution (Khurana and Kanawjia 2006). \r\nIt has a shelf life of 7 days under ambient conditions and can reach upto 14 days under cold storage (Madani et al., 2018; Bharathi, 2002). The fruit is highly sensitive to fungi such as black mold rot (Aspergillus niger), sour rot (Geotrichum candidum), blue mold rot (Penicillium itallicum), and anthracnose (Colletotrichum gloeosporioides) and microbial infections by species Botryodiplodia, Pestalotiopsis, Phytophthora and Phomopsis also contribute towards the post-harvest losses of the product. Hence, delaying the ripening and controlling the microbial activity can increase the shelf life of sapota. Ultraviolet irradiation is one of the minimal processing technology which has the potential in delaying ripening and is known for its germicidal effect.\r\nUltraviolet irradiation is a low-costminimal processing technique withthe potential to increase shelf life and doesn’t demand sophisticated systems. Ultraviolet radiation is a portion of electromagnetic spectra with a wavelength of 100-400 nm. It is non-ionising germicidal radiation with surface decontamination properties (Gardner and Shama 2000). Among ultraviolet spectra, ultraviolet-C radiation with a wavelength of 200-280 is most effective in inactivating viruses, bacteria and spoilage pathogens (Kowalski, 2009). Ultraviolet radiation works on two principles (1) It reduces the microbial count from the fruit surface and (2) the hormesis effect (Stevens et al., 1999). Hormesis is the stimulation of the production of plant defence enzymes on the application of low doses of abiotic stresses (Shama, 2007). \r\nThe increased fruit resistance to spoilage is due to the formation of phenylalanine ammonia-lyase (PAL) which enhances the production of phytoalexins (Cisneros-Zevallos, 2003). UV-C irradiation is also known to delay the ripening (Idzwana et al., 2020) hence can be used on sapota which suffers from quick ripening problems. The present study was used to investigate the effect of UV-C irradiation on the storability of sapota.\r\nMATERIALS AND METHODS\r\nThe study was conducted in the College of Agricultural Engineering & Technology, Junagadh Agricultural University, Gujarat during 2021-2022. Sapota of kalipatti variety was procured from the instructional farm of Junagadh Agricultural University, Gujarat, India. Sapota fruit at physiological maturity when brown scaly scurf from the fruit surface was procured. Equal-sized fruits free from any defects and of similar maturity were selected for treatment. The fruits were washed and air-dried before treatment.\r\nUV-C treatment of sapota: The fruits were treated under a bank of 4 UV-C lamps of 30W placed in a semicircular orientation. The fruit was continuously rotated using two rollers at 5 rpm. The fruit was treated with average UV-C intensity of 36.3 Wm-2 and a dose of 2.5, 5, 7.5 and 10 kJ m-2. The maximum dose was decided based on the pre-trials. The dose above which the fruit started showing negative effects on the fruit surface was selected as the highest dose. The treatment time was calculated by dividing the dose required by radiation intensity. A total of 10 fruits per treatment was given UV-C dose with three replications. The experiments were conducted in the month of April and May. The fruits were stored in transportation containers developed by Antala et al. (2021). The containers were then stored in cold storage with 12±1⁰C temperature and 85-90% relative humidity. The container and stored sapota can be depicted in Fig. 1.\r\nDecay count: Decay count was calculated based on the external appearance of the fruit. Fruits with the sign of damage, moulds or decay were considered decayed. The percent decay count was calculated by dividing decayed fruit by the total number of fruits decayed (Cote et al., 2013). The decay count was calculated after 14 and 21 days after treatment. The shelf life of the sapota was considered as the days of storage when 60% of the fruits became unmarketable (Yadav, 2010) or the microbial load on the fruits exceed 6 log cfu/g (Gull, 2021).\r\nMicrobiological analysis: The microbial analysis was carried out to evaluate the effect of ultraviolet-C irradiation on the microbial population. The total aerobic plate count of control and treated fruits was determined according to Hakguder Taze et al. (2015) using the spread plating method. The results were expressed in log colony-forming units. The microbial analysis was carried out on the day of treatment.\r\nStatistical Analysis: The statistical analysis was carried out using OPSTAT (an Online Agriculture Data Analysis Tool) with one-factor analysis. To find the level of factor which caused a significant change in the log survival numbers of total mesophilic aerobic bacteria, (TAPC) Tukey’s pairwise comparison test was also conducted using Minitab 18 (Minitab Inc., US Canada). Each experiment was conducted in quadruplicates.\r\nRESULTS AND DISCUSSION\r\nDecay Count: The UV-C treatment significantly (P<0.001) reduced the decay count of treated samples compared to the untreated samples (Table 1). The higher doses resulted in a lower decay count compared to the untreated samples. The control samples displayed a decay count of above 60% on the 14th day of treatment hence can be considered as the end of the shelf life of the control fruit. The decay count of treated fruit didn’t exceed the mark of 60% spoilage on 21 days of storage which indicates an extended shelf life on UV-C treatment. The decay count of fruits at 21 days of treatment can be interpreted from Fig. 2. \r\nSimilar findings of reduced decay count were reported by D\'hallewin et al. (2000) in star ruby fruit, \r\nGonzález-Aguilar et al. (2007) in mango and Michailidis et al. (2019) in sweet cherry. D’hallewin et al. (1999) attributed the decrease in decay development to the accumulation of scoparone and scopoletin, which induces the production of phytoalexins, which inhibits pathogens. González-Aguilar et al. (2007) also reported enhanced activity of phenylalanine ammonia-lyase which can significantly reduce the decay count of fruit. The decay count was found least at the highest dose. A similar finding of lower decay count at a higher dose was reported by Escalona et al. (2010).\r\nMicrobial Analysis: The sapota samples were first microbiologically examined to determine their initial microbial flora of fruit. It was found that the sapota samples initially contained 3.5 ± 0.1 log cfu g-1 of total aerobic bacteria. The initial total plate count was in close approximation to the earlier study on sapodilla by Foo et al. (2019). The initial total aerobic plate count (TAPC) of the samples decreased from 3.5 log cfu g-1 to a minimum of 1.70 log cfug-1 following UV-C irradiation (Table 2). The fruits treated with UV-C displayed a significant (P<0.001) reduction in total aerobic plate count. The minimum surviving bacteria were found in the samples treated with 10 kJ m-2. The microbial count of fruits treated with UV-C dose 7.5 and 10 kJ m-2 was at par. Similar findings of reduction in the microbial count were reported by HakguderTaze & Unluturk (2018) in apricot, Chen et al. (2020) in persimmon and Moreno et al. (2017) in fresh-cut carambola. On exposure to UV-C radiation, the hydrogen bond electrons of paired nucleotide get energised leading to breakage of the bond which results in the formation of the mutagenic lesion and cytotoxic, which ultimately leads to DNA disruption (Koutchma, 2014; HakguderTaze et al., 2015). In another explanation, it was reported that UV-C irradiation stimulates the production of plant defence enzymes such as phytoalexins and phenols. The plant defence enzymes are toxic to pathogens and hence can cause a significant reduction in microbial count (Gonz´alez-Aguilar et al., 2001; Guan et al., 2012).','Charan Singh*, Navnitkumar Khimjibhai Dhamsaniya and Pankaj Kumar Jemalbhai Rathod (2022). Effect of Ultraviolet-C Irradiation on Storability of Sapota. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 14(3): 194-198.'),(5252,'136','Arthropod Diversity and Extent of Infestation in Store Maize Grain Samples','J.M. Nivethika, T. Srinivasan*, R. Arulprakash, A. Suganthi and R. Ravikesavan','34 Arthropod Diversity and Extent of Infestation in Store Maize Grain Samples J.M. Nivethika.pdf','',1,'Maize (Zea mays L.) is one of the important cereal crop cultivated in India. Stored insect pests inflict damage to maize crop starting from early stage of ripening to post harvest stage. Due to a lack of understanding about maize storage pests, majority of Tamil Nadu farmers encounter insect pest infestation. An intensive study was carried out in Tamil Nadu Agricultural University, Coimbatore during 2021-22 to explore the important pests associated with stored maize, their diversity, as well as the damage and losses they cause. Maize grain samples were collected from seven major maize growing districts of Tamil Nadu. Biodiversity indices such as Shannon-Weiner diversity index, Margalef richness index, Peilou’s evenness index and Berger-Parker index of dominance were measured. A total of five arthropod species belonging to orders Coleoptera and Lepidoptera and one species of Acarina were documented. The highest insect diversity (1.51) was noticed in samples from Perambalur feed industries and the lowest diversity (0.69) was noticed from farm samples collected from Dharmapuri. The predominant pest encountered in stored maize was the rice weevil (Sitophilus oryzae Linnaeus) (38.9%) followed by angoumois grain moth (Sitotroga cereallela Olivier) (28.2%) and the red flour beetle (Tribolium castaneum Herbst) (20.2%). Within five to six months of storage, average grain damage of 53.96 per cent was recorded resulting in losses to an extent of 24.42 percent. The insect pests diversity, their damage and losses they cause increased, as the storage period extended.','Maize, storage pests, sampling sites, diversity indices, Sitophilus oryzae, grain damage, weight loss','Stored insect pests belonging to orders Coleoptera (rice weevil, red flour beetle and lesser grain borer), Lepidoptera (Angoumois grain moth and rice moth) and Acarina (flour mite) were identified and documented in stored maize grains. The dominant pests encountered in stored maize were the rice weevil (Sitophilus oryzae) followed by the angoumois grain moth (Sitotroga cereallela), and the red flour beetle (Tribolium castaneum). Between five and six months of storage, significant grain damage of 53.96 percent and losses of upto 38 percent was caused by these pests. The incidence, distribution of stored insect pests and qualitative or quantitative loss of maize increased with increased storage time. Sound management measures without compromising the quality of the produce to mitigate the major storage pest of stored maize grains is the need of the hour.','INTRODUCTION\r\nMaize (Zea mays L.) is an important cereal crop, ranking third in India (APEDA, 2020). Maize is native to Central America and Mexico and has adapted to a wide range of agro climatic situations. It serves three functions in the Indian subcontinent: as a staple food, feed, and fodder, particularly for farmers with limited land holdings, promoting food security and income generation (Lakshmi Soujanya et al., 2017). It has numerous applications in corn-based industrial products, and the demand for maize export has been increasing year after year due to its higher nutritional value. It is mostly grown in the Indian states of Gujarat, Madhya Pradesh, Rajasthan, Bihar, Uttar Pradesh, Tamil Nadu, and Telangana. In Tamil Nadu, the area under maize cultivation is 3.33 lakh ha with a production of 24.76 lakh tonnes and productivity of 7424 kg/ha (INDIASTAT, 2020). Maize is stored after harvesting, either for use as seed or for human consumption or to obtain a favourable market price at times (Reddy and Pushpamma 1980). \r\nOne of the greatest barriers to achieving food security in emerging and underdeveloped nations is post-harvest loss during storage (Rounet, 1992). More than 37 species of arthropod pests have been linked to maize grains in storage (Abraham, 1996). Insect pests and diseases have a significant influence in diminishing production and productivity, as well as germination potential during the storage period (Mollah et al., 2016). Majority of the maize growers lack knowledge on the storage pests occurring in maize and subject their produce to improper storage conditions which results in both qualitative and quantitative losses. The present study was conducted to assess the major arthropod pests of stored maize and the extent of damage caused by them under storage conditions.\r\nMATERIALS AND METHODS\r\nSurvey area and sampling of maize grains. A laboratory study was conducted from December to May (2021-2022) in the Department of Agricultural Entomology, Tamil Nadu Agricultural University, Coimbatore with grain samples obtained from major maize growing districts of Tamil Nadu to find out the status of arthropod pests infesting stored maize, their damage and losses. Approximately, 1 kg of sample was collected from major maize growing districts of Tamil Nadu viz. Coimbatore, Salem, Namakkal, Dharmapuri, Trichy, Perambalur and Virudhunagar. Preferably, the maize grains were obtained from farmer’s stored produce besides collecting from Departmental stores, bulk storage godowns and feed industries. Each sample was tightly packed in a paper bag after tagging with information on the location, date of collection, etc. and brought to the laboratory for further scrutiny (Firidissa, 1999). \r\nCollection and identification of insects. Laboratory observations were made at the Department of Agricultural Entomology, Tamil Nadu Agricultural University, Coimbatore, at weekly intervals for 6 months at a room temperature of 28±3ºC and relative humidity of 65±10%. Samples were sieved at every inspection over a 2 mm mesh sieve (Abraham, 1996) and all the fractions were examined. Later, the insects were removed, counted and catalogued and were preserved as dry specimens or preserved in 70% ethyl alcohol for identification at a later stage. The detailed analysis of specimens was done with a Leica SA8PO and photographed with a Leica M205C microscope (with LAS X Application Suite montage software). Identification was done by using taxonomic keys provided by Akter et al. (2013); Koehler et al. (2006); Rita Devi et al. (2016); Sowmya et al. (2020), besides referring to books, journals, pictures and comparison with already identified specimens.\r\nAnalysis of diversity indices. Margalef Index (α) (Margalef, 1958), Shannon Weiner (H΄) index (Shanon and Weiner, 1949), Pielou\'s evenness index (J) (Peilou, 1966) and Berger-Parker Dominance index (May, 1975) were performed in R Studio version 4.0.4 using vegan package to reveal the diversity, species richness, evenness and dominance of arthropod pests associated with stored maize grains. \r\nData collection \r\nGrain weight loss: After storing for a period of 6 months, 100 grains were randomly removed from each samples and separated into infested and uninfested seeds. The weight of infested and uninfested seeds was separately recorded and the per cent weight loss was calculated based on the count and weight method (Adams, 1976). \r\nWeight loss (%)=\r\n((Wu×Nd)-(Wd×Nu))/(Wu×(Nu+Nd) )×100\r\nWhere, Wu = Weight of undamaged seed, Nu = Number of undamaged seed, Wd = Weight of damaged seed, Nd = Number of damaged seed \r\nPer cent grain damage: The count approach was used to assess insect damage after 6 months storage period. From each collected samples, 100 grains were chosen at random, and they were divided into categories of damaged and undamaged grains. Following that, the percent grain damage (Lemessa et al., 2000; Wambugu et al., 2009) was determined using the following formula.\r\nPer cent grain damage (%)=\r\n (Number of insect damaged grains)/(Total number of grains)×100\r\nRESULTS AND DISCUSSION\r\nMaize grain samples collected from different locations were found to be infested with different insect pests. The major pests observed from samples, their abundance and status are furnished in Table 1 and 2. A total of five arthropod pests were collected from the samples representing Coleoptera and Lepidoptera, besides a mite from Acarina. The rice weevil, Sitophilus oryzae (Linnaeus) was the predominant pest followed by Angoumois grain moth, Sitotroga cerealella (Olivier) and red flour beetle Tribolium castaneum (Herbst). In a similar study conducted in 3 states of USA, Eden (1967) listed out 17 species of insects from farm stored maize, of which S. oryzae was found to be the predominant one. Also, in a South Ethiopian sample, Getu (1993) identified S. cerealella and S. zeamais as the two most important stored maize pests. Maize weevil, grain moth and flour beetle were the most abundant insect pests in stored maize samples of western Ethiopia (Abraham, 1997) and Bangladesh (Alam et al., 2019), confirming our investigations.\r\nThe grain weevil, S. oryzae has been recorded as a polyphagous pest causing significant yield loss in stored maize grains in India and South East Asian countries (Hossain et al., 2007). Being an internal feeder, S. oryzae is capable of causing severe losses to the stored maize grains, both qualitatively and quantitatively. S. oryzae was observed in all the seven locations followed by S. cerealella, T. castaneum and Acarus siro in six locations each. According to Margalef richness index (α), Perambalur (1.03) had the maximum number of insect pests (6 insect pests) followed by Trichy (0.84), Namakkal (0.80) (5 insect pests in each), Salem (0.68), Coimbatore (0.63) (4 insect pests in each) and Virudhunagar (0.43) (3 species). In Dharmapuri, only two insect pests were recorded (Table 3). Higher the value of Shannon-weiner index indicates higher the diversity of insect pests in stored maize grains. Shannon index indicated higher insect pest diversity was found in Perambalur (1.51) and Trichy (1.50) which were collected from feed industries and bulk storage godowns and the lowest diversity was noticed from farm samples collected from Dharmapuri (0.69). Peilou’s evenness index showed that higher species evenness in Dharmapuri (0.72) and lower in Perambalur (0.42) (Table 3). According to Berger-Parker index of dominance, S. oryzae was dominant in all sampling districts except in Coimbatore (Table 4).\r\nIn the present investigation, samples collected from various sampling sites revealed 24.4 percent grain damage resulting in 53.9 percent yield loss within a storage period of six months (Table 5). The variations in per cent grain damage and weight loss in different locations were due to diverse sampling sites. Samples collected from feed industries, bulk storage godowns were prone to severe infestations than famer’s store point because of large scale holding of maize grain samples in the former. The per cent grain damage and yield loss is attributed to the combined impact of different stored insect pests, though S. oryzae was the major contributor. It was also noticed that the extent of damage increased as the storage time extended. Our literature survey revealed grain losses ranging from a minimum of 10-20 per cent (Hell et al., 2010, Golob, 1984; Giga et al., 1991, Abebe and Bekele 2006,) to as high as 80 percent under unprotected conditions (Schmutterer, 1971; Mutiro et al., 1992; Pingali and Pandey 2001). Within a period of five to six months, upto 80 percent grain loss was realized in grain samples stored at Cameroon (Nukenine et al., 2002) and at Bangladesh (Alam et al., 2019).\r\n','J.M. Nivethika, T. Srinivasan, R. Arulprakash, A. Suganthi and R. Ravikesavan (2022). Arthropod Diversity and Extent of Infestation in Store Maize Grain Samples. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 14(3): 199-203.'),(5253,'136','Influence of Plant Growth regulators on flowering and Seed Yield in Groundnut (Arachis hypogaea L.)','Sowjanya Pasala*, D. Shashibhushan, M. Pallavi and P. Sujatha','35 Influence of Plant Growth regulators on flowering and Seed Yield in Groundnut (Arachis hypogaea L.) Sowjanya Pasala.pdf','',1,'A study to evaluate the effect of foliar application of plant growth regulators on flowering subsequently on pod and seed characteristics in groundnut (Arachis hypogaea L.) var. Kadiri Lepakshi conducted at Seed Research and Technology Centre Farm, Professor Jayashankar Telangana State Agricultural University, Rajendranagar, Hyderabad during Rabi 2021-2022. The foliar application of different plant growth regulators i.e., Ethrel, Chloro Choline Chloride (CCC), Maleic Hydrazide (MH), Naphthalic Acetic Acid (NAA), and Mepiquat Chloride was taken up at 60 days after sowing in various dosages. The treatments applied reduced the flower production irrespective of the concentration which in turn led to fewer immature pods and more double-seeded pods, ultimately leading to increase yield than the untreated (control) plants. A statistically significant difference was observed in weight of pod and seed output. When compared to the control which had the lowest yield among the treatments Mepiquat Chloride @ 500 ppm had the greatest yield/plot (6.84 kg/plot). These treatments can be used to control the indeterminate nature of groundnut, thereby resulting in perfect dissemination of reserves to the early formed pods leading to increase in number of filled pods and decrease in number of unfilled and immature pods.','Groundnut, growth regulators, indeterminate flowering, pod filling, seed yield','Based on the results obtained from the present study, it can be concluded thatfoliar application of mepiquat chloride @ 500 ppm at 60 DAS may help to increase the number of mature pods and mature seeds and thereby increase yield.','INTRODUCTION\r\nPeanut (Arachis hypogaea), also called groundnut, earthnut, or goober, a legume of the pea family (Fabaceae), has multifaceted uses as grain, oilseed, and serves as raw material for more than 300 industrial products like flour, soaps, and plastics. Groundnut seed is rich in oil and protein content varying from 44 % to 56% and 22% to 30% respectively on dry seed basis. (Savage and Keenan 1994). The world production of groundnut was 49 million tonnes (2019), a 7% increase over the production in 2018. China ranks first with 36% of global production, followed by India (14%). Currently it occupies an area 4,825 thousand hectares with a production of 9,952 thousand tonnes and a productivity of 2063 kg/ha (Indiastat, 2021).\r\nThe major problem encountered in groundnut production is the formation of immature and ill filled pods due to its indeterminate nature leading to uneven maturity. This in turn leads to reduced pod filling efficiency with ultimate reduction in yield. Thus, there is a need to identify proper measures to arrest the flowering at later stages of crop growth so that the food from source is diverted to early formed pods only leading to perfect filling with decrease in number of unfilled, immature pods. To overcome this uneven maturity, there is a need to arrest flower formation at later stages of crop growth (Vinothini et al., 2018).\r\nThis study was thus taken up to identify the appropriate plant growth regulator to arrest flowering at later stages of crop growth and which ultimately increase the yield (Krishnamurthy 1981).\r\nMATERIAL AND METHODS\r\nA field experiment was conducted at the Research farm of Seed Research and Technology Centre, Rajendranagar, Hyderabad, in a Randomized Block Design replicated thrice to evaluate the influence of plant growth regulators on flowering and yield in groundnut var. Kadiri Lepakshi (K-1812) during Rabi, 2021-22. The seed of the groundnut variety Kadiri Lepakshi (K 1812) was procured from Agricultural Research Station, Kadiri and used as a source seed material for the investigation. The plot size for each treatment is 4 × 3 m2 and the crop was sown following a row-to-row spacing of 22.5 cm and plant to plant spacing of 10 cm. Crop was sown on 25th November 2021 and the various treatments i.e., foliar application of plant growth regulators such asT1-Mepiquat chloride @ 500 ppm, T2-Mepiquat Chloride @ 1000 ppm, T3- Ethrel @ 200 ppm, T4-Ethrel @ 400 ppm, T5- CCC @ 500 ppm, T6- CCC @ 1000 ppm, T7-MH @ 100 ppm, T8- MH @ 200 ppm, T9- NAA @ 100 ppm, T10- NAA @ 200 ppm and T11- Control were imposed 60 days after sowing, to prevent flowering in subsequent development stages. The observations were recorded on crop growth and yield parameters from 10 plants in each plot. The test weight of the seeds was taken from a random sample of 100 seeds and the plot yield (kg) was also recorded. The data collected was analysed statistically adopting the procedure described by Panse and Sukhatme (1985).\r\nRESULTS \r\nA field experiment on the influence of plant growth regulators on flowering and seed yield in groundnut (Arachis hypogaea L.) was conducted during Rabi (2021-2022) with variety K-1812. To achieve higher yield, it is crucial to stop production of new flowers after 60 DAS to prevent the mobilisation of resources to flowers as it may benefit the availability of enough days for finishing the seed filling. Among treatments, T1- mepiquat chloride @ 500 ppm (42) recorded significantly lowest number of flowers /plant after spraying significantly high test weight (48.55 g) and more yield per plot (6.84 kg/plot) compared to untreated control (136 number of flowers, 40.20 g test weight and 5.32 kg plot yield respectively). Regardless of concentrations, all other PGRs except Ethrel @ 200 ppm showed a significant reduction in the number of flowers/plant over the control (Table 1).\r\nThe plants treated with mepiquat chloride @ 500 ppm produced the maximum number of double-seeded mature pods (13), compared to less number of mature double-seeded pods plant-1andmore number of flowers plant-1in control. The number of double-seeded immature pods plant-1, single-seeded immature pods plant-1, and ill-filled pods plant-1 were reported as 8, 3, and 8 in the control, respectively (Table 2). \r\nPlants treated with Mepiquat Chloride @ 500 ppm recorded highest weight of double-seeded mature pods plant-1 (33.82 g)which was on par with T9- NAA @ 100 ppm (32.98), T8 MH @ 200 ppm (31.24), T6 CCC @ 1000 ppm (29.64) and T4 Ethrel @ 400 ppm (29.32). Significantly low weight of double-seeded mature pods plant-1(27.54) was observed in the untreated control. When compared to Mepiquat Chloride @ 500 ppm, the negative pod features of the weight of double seeded immature pods plant-1, weight of single-seeded immature pods plant-1 and weight of ill-filled pods plant-1 were reported as 3.08, 0.43, and 1.11 g respectively in Control (Table 3).\r\nSignificantly more number of mature seeds/plant (62) were recorded with Mepiquat Chloride @ 500 ppm which was on par with T2-Mepiquat Chloride @ 1000 ppm (59), T3-Ethrel @ 200 ppm & T6-CCC @ 1000 ppm (58), T8-MH @ 200 ppm (57) and T10-NAA @ 200 ppm (54). The weight of mature seeds plant-1was maximum in T1-Mepiquat Chloride @ 500 ppm (27.05 g) followed by T9-NAA @ 100 ppm (24.63), T8-MH @ 200 ppm (22.95) and T6-CCC @ 1000 ppm (22.76) which are on par with the best treatment. When compared to Mepiquat Chloride @ 500 ppm, the negative seed characteristics, such as the number of immature seeds plant-1 and their weight, were reported as 14 and 2.92 g in the Control (Table 4).\r\nDISCUSSIONS\r\nThe impact of plant growth regulators on the phases of groundnut development has been the subject of several investigations. The current study found that foliar application of mepiquat chloride @ 500 ppm on groundnut at 60 DAS arrests flowering at later stages. Similar observation of reduction in flowers was recorded by Avinasha et al. (2019) with the spraying of mepiquat chloride. This reduction of flowers is desirable as it will help in the efficient dissemination of food reserves to early formed pods thereby increasing the number of filled pods/plant leading to higher productivity. These results are also in conformity with the findings of Pushp and Virender (2013) who reported that foliar application of mepiquat chloride in groundnut alters the source-sink relationship which leads to diversion of assimilates to the already formed pods. With the increase in the number of mature pods, there is a proportional increase in the seed weight which is majorly contributed by mature seeds with the application of mepiquat chloride as confirmed by Pushp sharma et al., (2013).\r\n','Sowjanya Pasala, D. Shashibhushan, M. Pallavi and P. Sujatha (2022). Influence of Plant Growth regulators on flowering and Seed Yield in Groundnut (Arachis hypogaea L.). Biological Forum – An International Journal, 14(3): 204-207.'),(5254,'136','Association and Variability Studies of Quantitative Traits in Proso Millet (Panicum miliaceum L.)','G. Anil Kumar, C. Vanniarajan*, M. Vetriventhan, R. Sudhagar and S. Saravanan','36 Association and Variability Studies of Quantitative Traits in Proso Millet (Panicum miliaceum L.) G. Anil Kumar.pdf','',1,'Proso millet, being the climate-resilient crop among cereals can be grown for food, feed, and fodder purposes. Comparatively, Proso millet grains are higher in protein, vitamins, minerals, and micronutrients like iron, zinc, copper, and manganese. The current study was carried out to assess the variability and association analysis for 13 biometrical traits in 20 Proso millet accessions. High variability was noticed in the traits namely number of basal tillers, peduncle length, and flag leaf sheath length and moderate variability were recorded for the traits namely plant height, panicle length, flag leaf blade length, flag leaf blade width, thousand-grain weight, and single plant yield. High heritability with high genetic advance were recorded for the traits namely plant height, number of basal tillers, peduncle length, panicle length, flag leaf blade length, flag leaf blade width, flag leaf sheath length, thousand-grain weight, and single plant yield. The association analysis revealed significant phenotypic correlation for panicle length and flag leaf blade width while thousand-grain weight, plant height, and flag leaf sheath length, exhibited significance in both phenotypic and genotypic correlation analysis besides possessing a high positive direct effect in path coefficient analysis inferring that yield improvement can be accomplished by direct selection of these characters.','Proso millet, germplasm, variability, association analysis','The germplasm taken for study showed a wide range of variation for the characters number of basal tillers, peduncle length and flag leaf sheath length had high variability. Moderate variability was recorded for the traits of plant height, panicle length, flag leaf blade length, flag leaf blade width, thousand-grain weight and single plant yield. Plant height, number of basal tillers, peduncle length, panicle length, flag leaf blade length, flag leaf blade width, flag leaf sheath length, thousand-grain weight and single plant yield exhibited high genetic advance as per cent of mean indicating the additive nature of gene action. The association studies revealed that the primary selection of the characters- plant height, flag leaf sheath length and thousand-grain weight may be given paramount importance for the direct selection for the enhancement of yields. \r\nEffective utilisation of the trait-specific genetic resources will play a vital role in crop improvement. For the upcoming scenarios of global warming and scanty rainfall to ensure nutritional and food security, the cultivation and consumption of Proso millet, which is a source of micronutrients and protein along with yield will contribute to crop and diet diversification and thus helps in mitigating the future thrust.\r\n','INTRODUCTION\r\nThe term ‘millet’ refers to the small-grained, annual cereal grasses which are cultivated in low-input agricultural conditions, where major cereal crops usually return low yields. On marginal soils with low fertility, millets are typical for sustainable agriculture and food security. Proso millet (Panicum miliaceum L.) an allotetraploid with a chromosome number of 36 (2n = 4x = 36) is an annual herbaceous plant that can be easily grown in marginally fertile soils of arid and semi-arid regions. It is also known as common millet, hersey millet, broom corn millet, broom millet, white millet, russian millet and hog millet. It is predominantly a self-pollinated crop however natural cross-pollination of more than 10 % is also reported. Though cultivated principally for bird seed in the USA, the crop is widely cultivated across the countries like India, China, Russia, Ukraine, Turkey, Romania, Sri Lanka, Pakistan, Nepal, Western Burma, and a few other South-East Asian countries for food, feed and fodder purposes. Proso millet grains are nutritionally rich in protein, vitamins, minerals, and micronutrients including iron, zinc, copper, and manganese, compared to other staple cereals (Saleh et al., 2013). It is also a low-maintenance and stress-resistant crop capable of evading drought due to its short life cycle and producing an acceptable yield, making it appropriate for crop production in inhospitable climates. \r\nDespite Proso millet’s nutritional superiority and climatic resilience, it is an under-utilized crop. Global warming, changing environmental conditions, and erratic rainfall behaviour pose a serious threat to global food security in near future. Hence, there is a dire need for research on millets like Proso millet, which ensures food and nutritional security in mere future. Germplasm refers to the total of all the hereditary material available in a particular crop species. The information of variability in germplasm for important traits such as yield and quality enables the effective utilization of genetic resources in crop improvement programs (Vetriventhan et al., 2019). Estimation of the nature and degree of association among the yield contributing traits is essential to identify the direction of selection and to maximise yield in the shortest time possible.\r\nMATERIALS AND METHODS\r\nThe current study mainly aims the assessment of the genetic variability and association of various quantitative traits for the complex trait yield in Proso millet. The experimental material used for the study comprises 18 germplasm lines raised along with the checks ATL-1 and CO-5. This study was carried out during Rabi, 2021 at Agricultural College and Research Institute, Madurai, TNAU. The germplasm was procured from the Gene bank- ICRISAT, and the check varieties from the Centre of Excellence for Millets, Athiyandal. The total plot size adopted was 298m2 and the genotypes were raised in Randomised Block Design (RBD) with 3 replications. Each accession was sown in 3 rows of row length 3m with a spacing of 30×10 cm in each replication and standard agricultural management practices were carried out for the proper growth and establishment of the crop stand.\r\nThe observations were taken on five randomly selected plants from each replication for various biometrical traits namely plant height (cm), number of basal tillers, peduncle length (cm), panicle length (cm), flag leaf blade length (cm), flag leaf blade width (cm), flag leaf sheath length (cm), grain length (mm), grain width (mm),thousand-grain weight (g) and single plant yield (g)while the days to 50% flowering and days to maturity were recorded on a whole plot basis.\r\nThe magnitude of variation available in the germplasm accessions studied can be estimated by the coefficient of variation. The genotypic and phenotypic coefficients of variation (GCV & PCV) were calculated using the method devised by Burton (1952). The variability was classified into three classes i.e., low (<10%), moderate (10 - 20%), and high (>20%) as proposed by Sivasubramanian and Madhavamenon (1973). Broad sense heritability (h2b) was computed as per the method suggested by Lush (1940) and was classified as high (> 60%), moderate (30-60%), and low (<30%). By using the method developed by Johnson (1955), the genetic advance was evaluated and categorised into low (<10 %), moderate (10- 20 %), and high (> 20 %). The correlation coefficients were computed using the method suggested by Falconer (1960) and the path coefficient analysis was worked out using the method specified by Dewey and Lu (1959). \r\n The collected data were subjected to statistical analyses for the computation of genotypic variance (Vg), phenotypic variance (Vp), genotypic coefficient of variance (GCV), phenotypic coefficient of variance (PCV), Broad sense heritability(h2b), genetic advance as percent of mean (GAM), correlation and path analysis were carried out using the “variability” package in R software. The correlogram (Fig. 1) was constructed using the “Corrplot” package in R.\r\nRESULTS AND DISCUSSION\r\nMean performance \r\nThe estimation of mean values (Table 2) serves as a basis for selecting the desirable genotypes (Salini et al., 2010). The plant height ranged from51.74 cm to 104.64 cm with a mean of 68.20 cm. The number of basal tillers varied from 3 to 12 with a mean of 7 tillers. The germplasm evaluated attained the days to 50% flowering stage at a range of 34 to 41 days. Peduncle length ranged from 6.25 cm to 22.14 cm with an average of 14.91 cm and the panicle length from 16.21 cm to 31.25 cm with an average of 20.97 cm. The flag leaf blade length varied from 17.12 cm to 31.52 cm with a mean value of 22.79 cm and the flag leaf blade width from 0.86 cm to 2.79 cm with a mean value of 1.39 cm. The days to maturity among the genotypes ranged from 64 to 73 days. The grain length and grain width recorded a range of 2.62 mm – 3.19 mm and 1.85 mm – 2.30 mm and mean values of 2.88 mm and 2.05 mm respectively. The thousand-grain weight ranged from 4.02 g to 8.06 g with a mean of 5.29 g. Single plant yield ranged from 6.24 g to 12.56 g with a mean of 8.2 g. \r\nAnalysis of variance and Measures of variability. The analysis of variance (ANOVA) revealed that the mean sum of squares for all the 13 biometrical traits tested among 20 accessions was found to be significant (Table 1) which specifies the prevalence of large variation. The variability measures such as Vg, Vp, PCV, GCV, h2b and GAM for different traits are presented in Table 2. The PCV values are greater than that of the GCV values for all the traits studied indicating that the apparent variation is not only due to genotypes but also due to the influence of the environment. However, the differences in PCV and GCV are very narrow which is an indication of least influence of environment on the expression of the traits studied. Therefore, the variability observed among the genotypes under this study is due to the genetic constitution only.\r\nThe traits namely number of basal tillers, peduncle length and flag leaf sheath length have higher estimates of PCV and GCV indicating high variability. The results aligned with Salini et al. (2010); Verulkar et al. (2014) for the trait number of tillers. The features namely plant height, panicle length, flag leaf blade length, flag leaf blade width, thousand-grain weight and single plant yield recorded the moderate PCV and GCV values indicating moderate variability. Similar results were reported by Salini et al. (2010); Verulkar et al. (2014) for plant height and panicle length and panicle length by Anuradha et al. (2020). The characters such as days to 50% flowering, days to maturity, grain length and grain width recorded the lower estimates of PCV and GCV values indicating low variability in accordance with Anuradha et al. (2020); Verulkar et al. (2014); Salini et al.(2010) for days to maturity by Anuradha et al. (2020).\r\nIn the current study, estimates of broad sense heritability (h2b) were found to be high for all the 13 biometrical traits ranging from 67.95% (for grain width) to 99.17% (for the number of basal tillers), inferring that selection maybe effective since the environmental influence is low. The results obtained concurred with the findings reported by Calamai et al. (2020); Anuradha et al. (2020); Verulkar et al. (2014); Salini et al. (2010). \r\nOut of the 13 biometrical characters studied 9 characters exhibited high genetic advance percent of mean (GAM) ranging from4.50% for days to maturity to 71.88% for the number of basal tillers. The characteristics days to 50% flowering, days to maturity, grain length and grain width showed low genetic advance as a percent of the mean. \r\nAssociation analysis -Correlation and Path analysis. The yield is a complex trait governed by the interplay of numerous component characters. Understanding the complex relationships between various yield and yield-contributing characters is crucial for increasing the efficiency of selection in the process of aiming for the genetic improvement of yield. The estimation of correlation coefficients determines the nature and degree of association of various plant characters for yield. Phenotypic correlation denotes the observable correlation between two traits and it includes both genotypic and environmental effects and thus tends to vary under different environmental conditions. Genotypic correlation denotes the inherent association between two traits at the genetic level which was more stable and reliable thereby having principal importance in selecting the yield contributing characters. The estimates of genotypic correlation coefficient values (Table 4) were found to be greater than that of phenotypic correlation coefficient values (Table 3) for all the 13 biometrical characters studied which implies that the stronger association between the traits was mainly governed by the genetic factors.\r\nPhenotypic and genotypic correlation. The phenotypic correlation analysis (Table 3) revealed that the independent variables i.e., plant height (0.4517), panicle length (0.3406), flag leaf blade width(0.3754), flag leaf sheath length (0.5898) and thousand-grain weight (0.5777)had exhibited a highly significant positive relationship with single plant yield. Similar results were observed by Manimozhi et al. (2014) for the flag leaf sheath and panicle length. The genotypic correlation analysis (Table 4) exposed that 3 of the 5 variables which were significant in phenotypic correlation expressed the genotypic correlation i.e., plant height (0.4672), flag leaf sheath length (0.6118) and thousand-grain weight (0.6213).The above traits exhibited a highly significant positive relationship with single plant yield. The obtained results concurred with Dikshit and Sivaraj (2013) for plant height, flag leaf sheath length and thousand-grain weight and also with Yazdizadeh et al. (2020) who reported a significant positive correlation of plant height and thousand-grain weight with yield in both normal and salinity stress conditions. Salini et al. (2010) also witnessed a positive correlation between plant height with grain yield per plant.\r\nThe number of basal tillers recorded a significant negative correlation with peduncle length, panicle length, flag leaf blade length, flag leaf blade width, flag leaf sheath length and days to maturity.\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\nMany of the traits expressed significant positive intercorrelation among themselves, the trait plant height exhibited a positive correlation with days to 50 % flowering, peduncle length, panicle length, flag leaf blade length, flag leaf blade width, flag leaf sheath length and days to maturity. Similar inter-correlation results were reported by Vetriventhan et al. (2019). A correlogram (Fig. 1) was constructed for depicting the association of various biometrical traits studied. The associations among the traits - days to 50% flowering, peduncle length, panicle length, flag leaf blade length and flag leaf sheath length were significant and positively correlated with each other both in genotypic and phenotypic correlations. From the above results, it is evident that the selection of plant height from the above-mentioned traits will simultaneously lead to an increase in other traits due to significant inter-correlations. Therefore, the characters i.e., plant height, flag leaf sheath length and thousand-grain weight were given prior importance for primary selection.\r\nPath co-efficient analysis. Path analysis enables the partition of correlation coefficients into direct and indirect effects and thus helps in determining the actual contribution of the yield attributing component. The path coefficients along with correlation coefficients are essential to study the association among variables. The direct and indirect effects of phenotypic path analysis for the 13 biometrical traits are shown in Table 5. The character panicle length had a high negative direct effect (-0.43) and positive indirect effects of high, moderate and low via flag leaf sheath, plant height and thousand-grain weight respectively. The character flag leaf blade width has a moderate positive direct effect (0.256) and a moderate positive indirect effect via flag leaf sheath length and low positive indirect effects via plant height and thousand-weight. The traits flag leaf sheath length (0.52) had the highest positive direct effect followed by a high direct effect of thousand-grain weight (0.47) and a moderate direct effect of plant height (0.27). As these characters possess a high positive direct effect, implies that yield enhancement can be achieved by direct selection of these traits. \r\nThe direct and indirect effects of genotypic path analysis for the 13 biometrical traits are shown in Table 6. Panicle length has the highest negative direct effect (-0.78) followed by flag leaf blade length (-0.458) and days to 50% flowering (-0.333). The traits thousand-grain weight (0.655) had the highest positive direct effect followed by a high direct effect of flag leaf sheath length (0.631), a high direct effect of plant height (0.623), and a moderate direct effect of days to maturity (0.463). Salini et al. (2010) also witnessed a high positive direct effect of plant height with grain yield per plant. The characters mentioned above possess a high positive direct effect and positive correlation with single plant yield, inferring that yield improvement can be accomplished by direct selection of these characters. \r\n','G. Anil Kumar, C. Vanniarajan, M. Vetriventhan, R. Sudhagar and S. Saravanan (2022). Association and variability Studies of Quantitative Traits in Proso Millet (Panicum miliaceum L.). Biological Forum – An International Journal, 14(3): 208-214.'),(5255,'136','Host Preference Studies on Stored Pulses to Pulse bruchid, Callosobruchus phaseoli (Gyllenhal) (Chrysomelidae: Coleoptera)','G. Haripriya, R. Arulprakash*, P.S. Shanmugam and D. Amirtham','37 Host Preference Studies on Stored Pulses to Pulse bruchid, Callosobruchus phaseoli (Gyllenhal) (Chrysomelidae Coleoptera) R. Arulprakash.pdf','',1,'Pulses, being an essential source of proteins, serves as the indispensable food crop throughout the world. In storage, pulses witness heavy loss and damage due to various biotic and abiotic constraints. Among them, the bruchid infestation was very crucial. The present study was focussed on the host preference of bruchid, Callosobruchus phaseoli to various pulses seeds viz., green peas, chickpea, kidney beans, black beans, greengram, blackgram, horsegram, cowpea, and lablab. Results revealed that C. phaseoli preferred larger pulses seeds for oviposition than the smaller ones and maximum adult emergence was observed in lablab and cowpea. In blackgram, black beans and kidney beans (both speckled and brown types), despite oviposition, none of the grubs turned in to adults and there was no sign of damage to the seeds. Correlation studies showed that except seed dimension (Length, breadth and surface area) other biophysical characters (Seed colour, lustre, texture and sphericity) did not have any influence on C. phaseoli biology. Biochemical profiling of blackgram and black beans would reveal the exact cause of resistance. ','Callosobruchus phaseoli, pulses, host preference, biology, biophysical parameters','The degree of susceptibility to C. phaseoli varied between the different types of pulses. C. phaseoli prefers to breed in lablab and cowpea. Whereas seeds like blackgram, black beans and kidney beans did not support the larval development of C. phaseoli. Correlation studies revealed that biophysical parameters of pulses did not influence the growth and development of bruchid. Resistance in blackgram and beans could be attributed to the antinutritional substances (Secondary metabolites) in them. Therefore, to understand the mechanism of resistance, biochemical profiling of pulses is a prerequisite. ','INTRODUCTION\r\nPulses are indeed an important source of dietary fibre and high-quality protein. They play a vital role in food and nutritional security, with a lot of potential in meeting future global food security, nutrition, and environmental sustainability needs (Singh et al., 2016). In India, pulses have been cultivated over an area of 28.8 million hectares, with total production of 25.72 million metric tons, yielding about 892 Kg/ha annually (Anonymous, 2022), and thus being the world’s largest producer, consumer and importer of pulses (Vishwakarma et al., 2019). Nevertheless, there are some constraints exists in the production as well as the post-production of pulses. Being highly proteinaceous, pulses are more prone to storage pests and that alone accounts for 5-10 % losses in pulses (Lal and Verma 2007).\r\nPulse beetle, Callosobruchus spp. (Chrysomelidae: Coleoptera), also called bruchids, are quite well regarded as the most devastating pulse storage pest, particularly in the tropics and subtropics, causing notable losses to the stored pulse commodities (Mishra et al., 2017). The extent of damage and lossincurred by bruchids is variable depending on the crop and species. Among the species, Callosobruchus maculatus (Fabricius) and C. chinensis (Linnaeus) are the most notorious infesting several pulses such as cowpea, mung bean, black gram, chickpea, horse gram etc., during storage. In recent times, the bruchid species C. phaseoli has known to infest stored lablab seeds. During the recent survey, occurrence of Callosobruchus phaseoli (Gyllenhal) was recorded in stored lablab seeds and until now this species has not been reported from Tamil Nadu. C. phaseoli measures about 2.7 – 3.5 mm length and 1.5 – 1.7 mm width, having golden yellow brown body colouration. Like any other bruchid, it also glues its egg to the seed surface, the emerging grub entirely damages the cotyledon, and the adults make their way out by making circular exit holes. In view of C. phaseoli may expand its host range in future, the present study was focussed on identifying the host preference of bruchid by studying its biology in various pulses and to determine the range of susceptibility in pulses genotypes. \r\nMATERIALS AND METHODS\r\nExperiment details. The study was conducted at the Department of Agricultural Entomology, Tamil Nadu Agricultural University (TNAU), Coimbatore, Tamil Nadu from November 2021 to May 2022 by utilising Completely Randomized Design with three replications.\r\n\r\nSeed materials. Different types of uninfested pulses viz., green peas (Pisum sativum), chickpea (Cicer arietinum) (Desi and kabuli type), kidney beans (Phaseolus vulgaris) (Speckled and brown), blackgram (Vigna mungo), greengram (Vigna radiata), cowpea (Vigna unguiculata) and horsegram (Macrotyloma uniflorum) were used for the host preference study and were procured from the local markets. Black kidney beans, a local landrace collected from Kolli hills, Tamil Nadu and dolichos bean (Lablab purpureus) (Variety CO(GB)14), obtained from the Department of Vegetable Sciences, TNAU, Coimbatore, were also included in this study. All the seed materials were pre-conditioned in the deep freezer at -23˚C for two weeks to eliminate the hidden infestation by any other storage pests and then the seeds were thawed at room temperature for five days before experimentation.\r\nBruchid culture. Callosobruchus phaseoli adults used in this experiment were obtained from the pure culture maintained at Seed Health Laboratory, Directorate of Seed Centre, TNAU, Coimbatore. The male and female beetles were differentiated using the key characters (Kingsolver, 2004). Ten pairs of freshly emerged adults were released in uninfested white lablab seeds (100 g) kept in a plastic container (10 cm diameter, 20 cm height). Seeds were exposed for oviposition for two days and adults were removed. Freshly emerged adults from the culture were used for the experiments. The culture was retained throughout the study by periodical sub-culturing.\r\n ‘No-choice’ study. The host preference of C. phaseoli to different pulses was determined using no-choice method of screening (Aidbhavi et al., 2021). The number of seeds taken for study varied according to their size viz., kidney beans - 20 nos.; green peas, chickpea, lablab, kolli hills bean - 30 nos. each); cowpea - 40 nos. and greengram, blackgram, horsegram - 50 nos. each. The pre weighed seeds were taken in plastic vials (7.5 cm height, 5 cm diameter) three pairs of mated beetles were released in each vial and allowed to oviposit for four days. The biological parameters viz., oviposition (no. of eggs laid per ten seeds), egg hatching success (Giga and Smith 1987), adult emergence (%) and Mean Developmental Period (MDP) were observed. Finally, seed damage (%) and weight loss (%) were computed (Seram et al., 2016). Based on the above parameters, Susceptibilty Index (SI) (Howe, 1971) was calculated, and pulses seeds were categorized into immune (0.000), resistant (0.001-0.050), moderately resistant (0.051-0.055), moderately susceptible (0.056-0.060), susceptible (0.060-0.065) and highly susceptible (>0.065). \r\nSeed biophysical characteristics. The qualitative (Seed colour, lustre and texture) and quantitative (Seed dimensions, surface area and sphericity) parameters of different pulses were analysed to understand whether it has any relationship with the host susceptibility to C. phaseoli. The qualitative aspects like seed colour and lustre were visually observed. Seed texture was analysed under LEICA stereo zoom microscope (Model: S8APO). Seed length, breadth, width and seed coat thickness were measured using digital vernier calliper (Model: Kency). From the above parameters, seed surface area and seed sphericity were worked out as per Sewsaran et al. (2019).\r\nStatistical analysis. The data were statistically analysed by one way ANOVA using SPSS software version 22.0 and the means were compared by Duncan’s Multiple Range test (DMRT) at 5.0 % significance level. To stabilize the variance, data in percentage were transformed using arc-sine transformation, while others were transformed by square root transformation. To understand the mechanism of resistance, seed biophysical parameters were correlated with the biological parameters of C. phaseoli.\r\nRESULTS AND DISCUSSION\r\nA. Screening by no-choice test\r\nBiological parameters of C. Phaseoli obtained from the host preference study were given in Table 1. Eggs of C. phaseoli were observed on all the pulses seeds but there was significant variation in the rate of ovipositon. Maximum oviposition was observed in kidney beans (speckled) (70.17 eggs/10 seeds) and minimum in horsegram seeds (2.60 eggs/10seeds). Maximum eggs on kidney beans (speckled) might be due to the larger size, because seed size influence the ovipositon pattern of bruchid (Lambrides and Imrie 2000).\r\nThe hatching success of bruchid eggs had a significant variation between the pulses. Hatched eggs were differentiated from the unhatched ones by their dirty white opaque colour (Unhatched eggs are shiny and translucent). Maximum percentage of egg hatching was noticed in chickpea (Desi type) (94.72%) and in green peas (94.43%), whereas only 33.70% eggs were hatched in kidney beans (Brown). \r\nMaximum adult emergence (%) was observed in lablab seeds (78.11%). In blackgram, black beans (local land race) and kidney beans (speckled and brown) no adult emergence was observed. Despite higher percentage of hatching success, the seeds of blackgram, black beans and kidney bean has not supported the larval development. This might be due to the presence of antinutritional factors in the seed cotyledon that has hindered the larval development. Under laboratory condition in lablab seeds, C. phaseoli adult emergence occurs in 25-28 days after oviposition. However, in this study, Mean Developmental Period (MDP) of C. phaseoli varied significantly in different pulses. MDP ranged from 0.0 to 32.78 days, with green peas registering the longest MDP. C. chinensis had a prolonged developmental period in the resistant chickpea varieties (Ahmad et al., 2017).\r\nPer cent seed damage was higher in lablab (93.33%) followed by cowpea (85.83%), which also recorded maximum weight loss (29.95%). The seed damage and weight loss had a prominent association with the adult emergence rates. Tripathi et al., (2020) also found a significant positive relationship between adult emergence and percent seed weight loss. Based on SI, different pulses seeds were categorized and mentioned in Table 1.\r\nB. Biophysical seed characters\r\nThe results of qualitative and quantitative seed characters are presented in Table 3. There is a variation in seed coat colour among the different pulses seeds, however most of them had smooth texture and shiny lustre. The current findings revealed that seed coat colour did not have any impact on C. phaseoli oviposition, because there was no variation in the number of eggs laid on the light as well as dark coloured pulses seeds. In contrast, Esen et al. (2019) observed that seed colour of peas influenced the oviposition by C. chinensis, wherein black and brown coloured varieties had significantly lesser number of eggs per seed than yellow and green varieties. \r\nSeed lustre also had no effect on the oviposition. This finding contrasted with Duraimurugan et al., (2014), they reported that small and shiny green gram seeds had fewer eggs compared to the large and dull seeds. The seed texture of pulses seeds used in this study did not show much variation as most of them had smooth texture, except chickpea (Desi and kabuli type) and blackgram. The roughness of black gram seed could be a factor for non-preference by C. phaseoli. A similar attribute was noticed by Shaheen et al. (2006) wherein the resistant chickpea cultivars had rough and wrinkled seed coats. \r\nThe quantitative seed parameters viz., seed dimensions, seed coat thickness, seed surface area and seed sphericity, all exhibited significant variations between the pulse seeds. The seed coat thickness was minimum in the small sized pulses seeds like blackgram, greengram, horsegram and cowpea. Chickpea (Desi type) had the maximum seed coat thickness of 0.18 mm. As far as the Seed Surface Area (SSA) is concerned, Chickpea (Kabuli type) had the maximum SSA of 307.02 mm2 and horse gram had the minimum of 31.37 mm2. Seed sphericity denotes the roundness of the seed, that is, higher the value of seed sphericity, the more spherical is the seed (Wood et al., 2012). The seed sphericity of pulses seeds ranged from 53.71% (Kidney beans brown) to 90.29% (Green peas). \r\nC. Correlation study\r\nCorrelation analysis was performed to understand the influence of biophysical parameters of pulses seeds on the biology of C. phaseoli (Table 4). Surprisingly, only the ovipositional preference of bruchid had significant positive association with the seed length (r=0.803), breadth (r=0.763) and seed surface area (r=0.721). This elucidates that C. phaseoli had a high preference to larger seeds for oviposition, and it is evident that greater the seed size and area, higher is the rate of oviposition by bruchid. This is in consistent with Holay et al., (2017) who reported that the seed surface area of cowpea seeds was positively correlated with the number of eggs laid. Furthermore, the seed biophysical characters had no effect on the susceptibility of pulses. The bruchid biological parameters such as number of adults emerged, percent adult emergence, seed damage, weight loss was highly associated with one another. The SI had a significant positive correlation with number of adults emerged (r=0.735), MDP (r=0.751), percent adult emergence (r=0.931), seed damage (r=0.818), and weight loss (r=0.805). Thus, the present study infers that the major reason behind bruchid resistance in some pulses may be attributed to the seed biochemical factors or the presence of any antinutritional substances and this was found consistent with several reports (Srinivasan and Durairaj 2007; Saruchi and Thakur 2014; Swamy et al., 2020).\r\n','G. Haripriya, R. Arulprakash, P.S. Shanmugam and D. Amirtham (2022). Host Preference Studies on Stored Pulses to Pulse bruchid, Callosobruchus phaseoli (Gyllenhal) (Chrysomelidae: Coleoptera). Biological Forum – An International Journal, 14(3): 215-219.'),(5256,'136','Impact of Growing Conditions on Growth, Flower Induction and Yield Traits of Cucumber (Cucumis sativus L.) Varieties','P. Sudheer Kumar Reddy, S. Muthulakshmi*, G.J. Janavi and K. Venkatesan','38 Impact of Growing Conditions on Growth, Flower Induction and Yield Traits of Cucumber (Cucumis sativus L.) Varieties Sudheer Kumar Reddy Pesala.pdf','',1,'An experiment was investigated at the Department of Vegetable Science, Horticultural College and Research Institute, Tamil Nadu Agricultural University, Periyakulam, Tamil Nadu, India to assess the different varieties of cucumber varieties such as Heera, Japanese Long Green, K-75, Konkan Kakadi, Pant Khira-1 under open and protected environmental conditions. This experiment was laid out in Randomized Block Design with a factorial concept and comprised of three replications. The protected condition shows maximum vegetative growth at 30 days (31.88 cm) and 60 days (216.44 cm), early male (6th node) and female flowering (8.58 node) and it induces early fruiting (49.05 days), maximum fruit length (19.34 cm) and yield (4.2 kg/ha) shown over the open field conditions. Japanese Long Green showed maximum vegetative growth among all varieties in 30 days (27.68 cm) as well as at 60 days (207.5 cm), maximum fruit length (25.07 cm) and the maximum number of nodes per vine (37.45). Heerahybrid recorded early nodal position of male (3.35) and female flower (4.31), highest yield (3.13 kg/plant) among all the varieties. In interactions, maximum vine length in Japanese Long Green under protected conditions (282.5 cm) and early female flower observed in Heera under protected conditions (4.31), maximum yield (4.25 t/ha) was recorded in Heera under protected conditions. In open field conditions climate change is the major problem for the cultivation of cucumber but in protected conditions to regulate the microclimate surrounding the crop it induces yield.','Cucumber varieties, Open condition, protected condition, microclimate, fruit length','Protected conditions provide a favorable environment and microclimate for growth and development, and the physiological functioning of cucumber plants inside a Naturally ventilated polyhouse as compared to the open condition. The results of the study revealed cucumbers grown under polyhouse showed maximum vegetative growth, early flower induction, and high yield than those grown under open growing conditions. Therefore, the cultivation of cucumber can be advocated under polyhouse so that it can catch early market that would ultimately fetch a good price in the local markets as well as the export purpose and thus improve the socio-economic status of the farmer. Therefore, it can be recommended that among the two growing conditions, a naturally ventilated poly house is the best to provide a more favorable microclimate for cucumber cultivation. Cucumber hybrid Heera produced significantly maximum fruit yield as compared to all varieties. From the overall of the present study, it may be suggested and concluded that for successful investigation of cucumber Heera hybrid under protected conditions is an ideal.','INTRODUCTION \r\nCucumber (Cucumis sativus L.) is a popular vegetable grown in both open and protected environmental conditions around the world. Cucumber is indigenous to northwest India and it has been grown for at least three thousand years. Its juice is frequently advised as a source of silicon for skin health. Cucumber is high in vitamins A, B, B5, C, and K, as well as minerals such as magnesium, potassium, copper, phosphorus, and manganese. Cucumbers having caffeic acid and ascorbic acid aid to minimize skin irritation and swelling. India has a tropical and subtropical climate, the predominance of high temperatures throughout the year makes it difficult to get better yields and excellent quality vegetables in open environmental conditions. Protected farming is a distinct and specialized type of agriculture in which the microclimate surrounding the plant is partially or completely regulated according to the needs of the plant species farmed (Mishra et al., 2010). The protected cultivation of cucumbers could be used to improve their vegetative growth, yield, quantity and quality (Singh et al., 2012; Ganesan, 2002). Seed crops produced in open fields particularly in Kharif, are heavily plagued with cucumber mosaic virus and some other insect pests, for which no reliable management technique is currently available. \r\nFurthermore, changing climatic conditions, increased temperature and an increase in the incidence of insect pests and diseases drastically reduce seed yield and quality in the Kharif crop, and the relatively early onset of high temperature hampers the production of female flowers, fruit set, and fruit development in the Kharif crop. Due to its flexibility and high output under plastic house conditions, most farmers started growing hybrid cucumbers inaccessible regions during the off-season to earn remunerative returns. Even in naturally ventilated poly homes, yields are higher than in open fields (Srivastav and Singh, 1997; Gautam et al., 2008). Insect pest problems in protected farming are considerably different from pest problems in open fields (Rani and Reddy et al., 1999) (Reddy and Kumar et al., 2006). Less light intensity gives rise to more female flowers whereas more light intensity causes more male flowers Growing seed crops in protected structures, such as poly houses, can help to relieve these issues by shielding the crop from various insect vectors and poor environmental conditions. As a result, the current study was designed to investigate growth behaviour, flowering and fruit development parameters in cucumbers during kharif under Tamil Nadu conditions.\r\nMATERIALS AND METHODS\r\nThe present investigation was conducted at the western farm of the Department of Vegetable Science, Horticultural College and Research Institute (HC&RI), TNAU, Periyakulam in 2022 to evaluate the 5 varieties i.e., Heera, Japanese Long Green, K-75, Konkan Kakadi, Pant Khira-1, collected from various institutions/universities of Indian Council of Agricultural Research cultivated by TNAU recommended agronomical practices equipped with fertigation system. The spacing of 110 cm × 60 cm was maintained in raised beds with a single row system under polyhouse and open conditions. For both conditions, three replications were adopted for each variety in a Factorial Randomized Block Design (FRBD) with 2 factors (Growing conditions and Varieties). Based on soil and leaf studies, chemical fertilizers were applied. Soluble fertilizers were injected into irrigation water or sprayed on the leaves of plants to supplement micronutrient deficits (except for Iron which is used in the irrigation system). Ammonium sulphate, potassium sulphate (low solubility), superphosphate triple (poor solubility), magnesium sulphate, manganese sulphate, zinc sulphate, and Fe chelate were among the fertilizers used.\r\nNaturally Ventilated Poly House (NVPH). The saw-toothed structured poly house had various facilities like a double door, exhausted fan and cooling pad system, fogging system, shade net, and fertigation system. \r\nOpen environmental condition. In open conditions without any environmental control system but same agronomic practices followed, such as dimensions of the plot, date of sowing, training, fertigation, and intercultural operations.\r\nRESULTS AND DISCUSSION\r\nTables 1 and 2 show the data on the performance of various cucumber varieties in two different habitats in terms of plant development characteristics, flowering, and fruit characters under the naturally ventilated poly house as well as in open field conditions. The statistical analysis showed substantial variations between the growth conditions and different varieties.\r\nVegetative growth parameters. Vegetative growth characteristics such as vine length at 30 DAS, vine length at 60 DAS, and number of nodes per vine were recorded for different varieties of cucumber under open and protected conditions. From Table 1, it was concluded that significantly maximum vine length at 30 DAS (31.88 cm), vine length at 60 DAS (216.14 cm) and number of nodes per vine (28.24) were recorded under protected conditions and minimum recorded under open field conditions. This might be attributed to increased photosynthesis and respiration as a result of the protected house beneficial microclimate. This is consistent with the findings of Kumarand Arumugam (2010) and Priya et al. (2002) on vegetables produced in poly houses, as well as Ryelski (1985) and El-Aidy et al. (1989) on sweet pepper cultivated in shade net houses. In between varieties, Japanese Long Green showed maximum vine length at 60 DAS (207.50 cm), a number of nodes per vine (37.45), followed by Heera (267.80 cm, 28.22 cm) respectively. The vine length at 30 DAS was significantly maximum recorded in the Heera variety (28.98 cm) on par with Japanese Long Green (27.68 cm), whereas among the interactions Japanese long green under protected conditions showed maximum vine length at 30 DAS (46.55 cm), vine length at 60 DAS (44.13 cm), number of nodes per vine was recorded in Japanese Long Green under open field conditions (37.45). The outcome of these characters was in accordance with Chaudhari et al. (2016); Dahal et al. (2020).\r\nReproductive parameters. Table 2 revealed the significantly maximum nodal position of the first male and female flower recorded under open conditions (8.11, 10.78) respectively, and the early nodal stage of the male (6.00) and female flower (8.58) shown under protected conditions. The results conform with Singh et al. (2004). In varieties, early nodal position of male (3.35) and female flowers (5.25) was noticed in the Heera hybrid. Among the interactions, the early (3.19) nodal position of the first male flower was recorded in Japanese Long Green under protected conditions and the early (4.31) female flower nodal position was recorded in Heera under protected conditions and late nodal position of male (10.45) and female flower (13.2) seen in Pant Khira-1 under open conditions. The differences in the first emergence of female flower could have been due to internodal length, number of internodes, genetic nature, environmental factors and vigour of the crop. Rawat et al. (2014); Patel et al. (2013) reported such variations among various cucumber cultivars for the nodal position of first pistillate flower and staminate flowers.\r\nDays to first picking. Days to first picking significantly maximum (57.89 days) was recorded under open field conditions over the protected conditions (49.05 days), this might be owing to a build-up of photosynthates, which stimulated the early commencement of flowers. Rui et al. (1989) discovered similar results in capsicum. Heera hybrid took minimum (43.86 days) days for first picking and the maximum days taken for first picking in Konkan Kakadi (62.17 days) variety. In interactions, Japanese Long Green variety under protected conditions took less (38.12) days for first picking and more (65.79) days took in Konkan Kakadi under open field conditions. Similar findings were reported by Kumar et al. (2013); Kumar et al. (2019).\r\nDays to the last picking. Fig. 1 shows that protected conditions (91.92 days) took maximum days for last harvest compared to the open field conditions (88.01 days), whereas varieties K-75 (93.7 days) had the maximum days for last picking and minimum days taken in Heera hybrid (82.86 days). In individual interactions, maximum days were shown in Japanese Long Green under protected grown conditions (94.22 days), and minimum days were reported in Heera hybrid under open field conditions (80.45 days) for days to last picking. The present findings are in agreement with those reported by Cardoso and Silva (2003); Afangideh and Uyoh (2007).\r\nFruit length (cm). Fig. 1 shows that Protected conditions (19.34 cm) obtained maximum fruit length and minimum fruit length was noted under open field conditions (18.03 cm), and Japanese Long Green (25.04 cm) had longest fruit and minimum fruit length recorded in the K-75 variety (15.88 cm). Among all the interactions, Japanese Long Green under protected (26.94 cm) obtained the longest fruit and the shortes fruit was noted in K-75 under open field conditions (15.67 cm). The difference in fruit length could have been due to the genetic nature of the variety, environmental factors, and vigour of the crop. Similar findings are reported by Hossain et al. (2010); Yadav et al. (2012); Patel et al. (2013); Kaddi et al. (2014). \r\nYield per plant (kg/plant). Fig. 2 shows that protected conditions (3.02 kg) obtained maximum yield and open conditions (1.45 kg) was noticed as the lowest yield, among all the varieties Heera hybrid (3.13 kg) had the maximum yield, followed by the Japanese Long Green (2.98 kg/ha) and minimum yield was noticed under Konkan Kakadi (1.31 kg/ha). In individual interactions, maximum yield was noted in the Heera hybrid under protected conditions (4.25 kg/ha) and the lowest yield was noticed in Konkan Kakadi under open field conditions (0.9 kg/ha). These findings back up previous research of Afangideh and Uyoh (2007); Soleimani et al. (2009).\r\n\r\n','P. Sudheer Kumar Reddy, S. Muthulakshmi, G.J. Janavi and K. Venkatesan (2022). Impact of Growing Conditions on Growth, Flower Induction and Yield Traits of Cucumber (Cucumis sativus L.) Varieties. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 14(3): 220-224.'),(5257,'136','Co-ordinal Impact of Humic Acid, Boron and Zinc Application on Morphological Changes and Chlorophyll in Black gram','Deepak Kumar, Akash, Mohit Naik and Anaytullah Siddique*','39 Co-ordinal Impact of Humic Acid, Boron and Zinc Application on Morphological Changes and Chlorophyll in Black gram Deepak Kumar.pdf','',1,'An experiment was planned and executed over the field to evaluate the co-ordinal impact of humic acid with foliar applications of Zn and Boron on morphological changesand chlorophyll content in black gram (Vigna mungo L.). Out of both the concentrations of humic acid, (HA1 and HA2), HA2 was recorded superiorfor the entire set of parameters as compared to HA1 which was considered for the present study. Among thesets of foliar application with boron and zinc, T4 (HA1 + 2% Zn) was recorded consistently better than the rest of the treatments for all the parameters in both concentrations of HA such as plant height (cm), fresh and dry weight g plant-1, the number of leaves and leaf area cm2 plant-1 (107.1, 164.3, 9.20, 45.7, 532 and 114, 178.7, 9.91, 47.5 and 556). The performance of LAI and SPAD reading was noticed well in HA1 × T4 at both the time of intervals (60 DAS and at harvest). In the case of HA2, T4 performed well only for LAI while for SPAD reading T2 supersede T4. The statistical analysis of the data showed that all the parameters recorded significant differences at (P>0.05) except for the dry weight of the plant.The yield of pulse crop is a major challenge that depends directly / indirectly upon the morpho-physiological growth of the plant therefore, the present study was considered to overcome the issue related to morpho-physiological growth of pulse crop. ','Black gram, boron, chlorophyll, humic acidand Zn','Soil application of humic acid followed by foliar application of Zinc and Boron showed their co-ordinal impact on morphological growth and total chlorophyll content. Out of the entire set of treatments, HA1 and HA2 both were found most effective along with T4 (Zn 2%) for most of the parameters studied. The applied treatments can help in many ways like nutritional support from the soil, translocation of nutrients within the plant, and additional support in the synthesis of chlorophyll content. On the behalf of these results, we can expect that yield of this crop would be better as compared to normal cultivation practices.','INTRODUCTION\r\nBlack gram (Vigna mungo) is one of the highly valuable pulse crops concerning nutrition around the world that is grown in both seasons Kharif and Rabi. It is grown on approximately about 3 million hectares and the annual production of this crop is 1.5 to 1.9 million tonnes in India. We can grow this crop throughout the year because it is photo insensitive crop and also a self-pollinated crop. Moreover, it is a short-duration crop, easily suitable in any cropping system and has relative drought tolerance (Cheeran et al., 2017; Gandi et al., 2018). The yield of the black gram crop is adversely affected by the high temperature and drought (Baroowa and Gogoi 2015). It offers nutrition benefits to human beings and provides food security while the additional benefit is given to the soil concerning nitrogen for other crops (Khiangte and Siddique 2021). Humic acid promotes plant growth and yield by increasing nutrient intake and operating on different systems such as cellular respiration, photosynthesis, protein synthesis, and enzyme activities because it is a powerful adsorption and retention complex for inorganic plant nutrients (El-Saadony et al., 2021; Ozfidan-konakci et al., 2018). Zinc and boron both are essential micronutrients that play a wide role in the plant metabolic process in which Zn is the only element that includes in all the classes of an enzyme. Zinc is an element that is required for the biosynthesis of Auxin in the plant system therefore the deficiency of Zinc may show a reduction in auxin content in the plant consequently it alters the growth and development mediated by the interference in carbohydrate and nucleic acid metabolic process (Choudharyet al., 2020; Auld, 2001; Latef et al., 2017). Boron is another micronutrient that interferes in the translocation of sugar from the source to the sink (Farooq et al., 2012; Kihara et al., 2020). Therefore, to enhance the production of black gram, the present piece of work was considered for the research. \r\nMATERIALS AND METHODS\r\nThe present piece of research work was planned and executed over the Research Farm of Agronomy, Lovely Professional University, in Kharif seasons of 2021-22. The experiment was laid out in a Randomized Block Design along with the combinations of ten treatments and one control. The treatment combinations were made with two different types of treatment one is concentrations of humic acid @ 10 Kg ha-1 (HA1) and 12 Kg ha-1 (HA2) and the second is the foliar application of Zn and Boron in two different concentrations (1% and 2%) while the single variety of black gram (Mash1008) was used. The humic acid was applied to the soil after dissolvingin the water by the use of a sprinkler in the respective plots before the sowing. The following morphological parameters were used to assess the impact of treatments such asplant height, fresh and dry weight of the plant, number of leaves, leaf area, and LAI while SPAD reading was recorded with a SPAD meter (SPAD-502). The LAI and total chlorophyll content were calculated according to the formula given by (Watson, 1947; Arnon, 1949).\r\nTotal chlorophyll = (20.2 (D 645) + 8.02 (D 663) × \r\nThe RBD analysis was carried out through SPSS (Model No-23) while the significance level of the parameters and treatments weretasted at p>0.5%.\r\nRESULT AND DISCUSSION\r\nThe co-ordinal impact of humic acid, boron, and zinc application as soil and foliar application on plant height (cm), fresh and dry weight (g plant-1), the number of leaves, and leaf area (cm2 plant-1) were assessedin black gram. It was observed from the data presented in (Table 1) showed that out of both the concentrations of humic acid (HA1 and HA2), HA2 recorded consistently better as compared to HA1 for all the parameters such as plant height, fresh and dry weight, number of leaves and leaf area. The performance of the treatments among the foliar applications of Zn and Boron with HA1 showed that T4(HA1 + 2% Zn) was found maximum value with highly significantfor all the parameters which were followed by T2 and T5 as compared to the control set whilein case of HA2 in combination with Zn and boron, a similar trend was found for all the parameters except to dry weight of the plant. The data presented in parenthesis (Table 1) showed about the % increase/decrease over the control indicated the same trend concerning gain of growth. Data presented in (Table 2) reveals the impact of treatments on LAI (leaf area index) and SPAD readings at the intervals of 50DAS and at harvest.The performance of the treatments among the foliar applications of Zn and Boron with HA1 showed that T4 (HA1 + 2% Zn) was found to the maximum value with highly significantfor both the parameters which were followed by T2 and T5 as compared to control set while in case of HA2 in combination with Zn and boron, the trends was recorded same for LAI while T2 was recorded best for SPAD reading at both the intervals. It was observed from the data presented in (Table 2) showed that out of both the concentrations of humic acid (HA1 and HA2), HA2 recorded consistently better as compared to HA1 for both the parameters such as LAI and SPAD reading except for SPAD reading at harvest. The data relating to % increase/decrease over control justified the performance of treatments (Table 2). Total chlorophyllcontent (mg g-1) was measured from the leaf of black gram and recorded highest in HA2 as compared to HA1 however, within the HA1, T4 was recorded significantly better as compared to the rest of the treatments while T2 was in HA2 at both the time of intervals showed that HA2 (Fig. 1). However, astrong positive correlation was observed between the SPAD reading and total chlorophyll content (Fig. 2). Humic acid is an important compound that helps in many ways to boost plant growth and development in which one of which is enhancing the capacity to release nutrients in soil followed by the uptake of nutrients. The importance of Zn and boron is already well known,especially in the synthesis of Auxin, the production of carbohydrates, and its translocation from the place of the source to the place of the sink (Pandey and Gupta, 2013; Pandey et al., 2006). The co-ordinal impact of the treatments showed that HA1 and HA2 both were doing well incombination with T4 most of the time except fora few parameters such as SPAD reading and total chlorophyll content T2 was recorded better. The results of the present study areper the findings of (Ibrahim and Ramadan, 2015) who reported that the combined application of humic acid and FA of Zinc benefited the crop up to the yield by manipulating morphological characters such as vegetative and reproductive growth mediated by the enhancing the nutrient release followed by the uptake of the plant (Pandey et al., 2013; Ahmed et al., 2010; Fawzy et al., 2010). \r\nIt is also reported that humic acid along with Zinc confers supports respiration, photosynthesis, water uptake and protein synthesis (Zhang and Ervin 2004; Sheikha and Al-Malki 2011 and Abu-Muriefah, 2013) while its ultimate impact is reflected in the yield of crop via improving the morphological growth and chlorophyll content.','Deepak Kumar, Akash, Mohit Naik and Anaytullah Siddique (2022). Co-ordinal Impact of Humic Acid, Boron and Zinc Application on Morphological Changes and Chlorophyll in Black gram. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 14(3): 225-229.'),(5258,'136','Influence of Bioextracts on Improving the Yield and Quality of Pomegranate (Punica granatum L.) var. Bhagwa','V.A. Anbhu, J. Rajangam*, V. Premalakshmi, K. Venkatesan','40 Influence of Bioextracts on Improving the Yield and Quality of Pomegranate (Punica granatum L.) var. Bhagwa V.A. Anbhu.pdf','',1,'An investigation was carried out at DFS, HC & RI, Periyakulam to study the influence of bio extracts on improving the yield and quality during 2021 and 2022 seasons on four years old pomegranate trees var. Bhagwa as well as to address the problems caused by the plants\' inadequate access to nutrients, which limits crop production and causes poor fruit development. Trees were sprayed with different bioextracts after pruning, before flowering and fruit setting stage. The pomegranate treated with Seaweed extract 3% + Moringa leaf extract 6%+ Licorice extract 1.5% exhibited significantly higher yield, fruit weight, Soluble Solid Content (SSC), Titrable Acidity (TA) ratio, ascorbic acid as compared to all other treatments. It is concluded that, the treatment T12 (Seaweed extract 3% + Moringa leaf extract 6%+ Licorice extract 1.5%) was observed to be enhancing the yield (kg per plant) and quality of pomegranate, thus providing efficient outcome to the farming community.','Pomegranate, bio extract, yield, quality, Bhagwa','Based on the results, it is concluded that the treatment T12 (Seaweed extract 3% + Moringa leaf extract 6% + Licorice extract 1.5%) improved the yield, and quality attributes of pomegranate cv. Bhagwa. Overall, it is inferred that these extracts (along with other natural materials) can be recommended to the farmers for use as natural plant extracts for various crops due to their elevated plausibility, high nutritional qualities, antioxidant influence, process ability, and greater efficiency in crop improvement.','INTRODUCTION\r\nPomegranate (Punica granatum L.), a fruit of heaven and the tropical and subtropical parts of the world produce a significant amount of pomegranates. It is indigenous to Iran and gradually spreading throughout the world (Supe and Saitwal 2016). Due to its wider adaptability, hardiness, low maintenance requirements, and excellent yields, it is ideally suited for growing in dry and semi-arid climates. Its fruit is popular with consumers due to its attractive juice, refreshing arils, as well as its nutritional and therapeutic benefits. There is a demand for high-quality fruits and for both fresh and processed juice, syrup, and wine.\r\nPomegranate \"Bhagwa\" cultivar is currently grown commercially in India. This cultivar produces higher yields and has excellent fruit qualities. This cultivar takes 170-180 days to mature. Fruits range from medium to large in size, are appealing, with smooth, glossy, dark, saffron-colored skin and fetching very good prices in the market. Due to its thick rind and superior preserving qualities, it is appropriate for markets located far away.\r\nBioextracts including seaweed extract, moringa leaf extract, and licorice extract have been shown to be useful organic additions to utilise in the current organic farming trend. It has decreased reliance on inorganic fertilisers in order to achieve sustainability while maintaining quality and quantity.\r\nA new generation of natural organic fertilisers called seaweed extract is extremely nutritive, encourages faster development, and promotes yield and quality. Seaweed extracts include a lot of organic and mineral ingredients in them (micro- and macronutrients). (Alkharpotly et al., 2017).\r\nMoringa oleifera (family: Moringaceae) is one of such alternatives, being investigated to ascertain its effect on growth and yield of crops and thus can be promoted among farmers as a possible supplement or substitute to inorganic fertilizers (Phiri, 2010). Additionally, moringa leaf extract is used to increase productivity and fruit quality by acting as a natural plant growth regulator.\r\nOne of the organic plant extracts is licorice root extract (Glycyrrhiza glabrag), which belongs to the Fabaceae plant family. It helps to increase the growth, yield, and quality of fruits since it contains considerable amount of carbohydrates, amino acids, and other essential nutrients (Hussein et al., 2021).\r\nMATERIALS AND METHODS \r\nThis study was carried out during 2021 and 2022 on four-year-old Pomegranate trees (Punica granatum L.) var. Bhagwa in Central farm of Dept. of Fruit Science, Horticultural College and Research Institute, Periyakulam. All trees were selected based on their uniformity in growth, size and vigour which planted at 4×2 meters apart. Treatments of different bioextracts had been imposed on pomegranate viz. seaweed extract, botanical extracts of licorice root and moringa leaves extract of varied concentrations. The experiment was laid out in randomised block design with 3 replications comprising of 13 treatments and 5 plants for each treatment.\r\nFoliar sprays of bioextracts were applied at three stages: first, with the emergence of new flushes following pruning; second, right before flowering; and third, during the stage of fruit set.\r\nObservations recorded\r\nYield parameters. The yield was observed at the time of harvest and expressed in term of kg/tree and ten fruits were randomly taken from each replicate to study the physical properties (i.e., fruit length (cm), fruit diameter (cm), fruit weight (g) .and individual number of fruits per tree.\r\nQuality parameters. After harvesting a sample of 10 mature fruits of each tree was taken at the harvest time to be used for determining the bio chemical properties i.e., the total soluble solids (T.S.S. degree brix) was measured by using a hand refractrometer and the acidity % as citric acid content using fresh juice with titration against 0.1 NaOH. The total sugars %, and juice content, ascorbic acid content were recorded and analysed as per the standard procedure.The data was subjected to statistical analysis.\r\nRESULT AND DISCUSSION\r\nYield parameters. The data revealed that the different treatments had significant effect on yield parameters (Table 1). The maximum number of fruits per plant (63.44), yield (16.75 kg plant-1) was recorded with application of T 13 Seaweed extract 3% + Moringa leaf extract 6%+ Licorice extract 1.5% followed by T 11 (Seaweed extract 2% + Moringa leaf extract 4%+ Licorice extract 1%) recorded maximum number of fruits per plant (57.61), yield (14.09 kg plant-1) and treatment T13 (control) recorded minimum number of fruits per plant (43.51), yield (8.70kg plant-1) has been recorded.\r\nMaximum fruit length (8.66 cm), fruit breadth (8.71 cm) (Table 2), fruit weight (262.23 g) and aril weight (185.04), rind weight (78.13) (Table 3) were recorded with foliar spray of Seaweed extract 3% + Moringa leaf extract 6%+ Licorice extract 1.5% and minimum fruit length (6.52 cm), fruit breadth (7.16cm), fruit weight (181.05 g) and aril weight (109.80), rind weight (70.11) were recorded with spray of control.\r\nThe majority of the micro and macro nutrients present in the foliar spray with licorice extract, seaweed extract, and moringa leaf extract, as well as Mevalonic acid, which plays a positive role in establishing gibberellin metabolic pathways and increases the internal level of gibberellin and improves the stimulation of the plant towards flowering, can be explained. Additionally, the presence of carbohydrates and salts increases the rate of persistent vegetative growth. These findings are consistent with the findings of Al-Musawi, (2018) in orange; Aly et al. (2020) in grapes and Hussein et al. (2021) in Pomegranate.\r\nQuality parameters. Foliar spray of various sources of bioextract significantly influenced the fruit quality parameters of pomegranate (Table 4). Results of the present study on advancing the quality of pomegranate fruits indicated that foliar spray of Seaweed extract 3% + Moringa leaf extract 6% + Licorice extract 1.5% (T12) has recorded maximum TSS (14.11 ° Brix) by reducing the titratable acidity content (0.38 %) and ascorbic acid content (14.01) (Table 5) total sugars (13.81), and juice content (46.73), which was significantly higher over other treatments, while the minimum TSS (11.06 ° Brix), highest titratable acidity (0.49 %) and total sugars (10.43), and juice content (40.20), ascorbic acid content (12.34) were found in the control (T13).\r\nThe findings were mostly attributable to the iron and magnesium found in licorice extract, which raises the proportion of total soluble solid in plant cells and improves water retention. Spraying with licorice extract resulted in the low titratable acidity. Abd El-Hamied et al. (2015) found that spraying this extract on pears\' fruits decreased their overall acidity. They also found that this extract enhanced the ascorbic acid content of fruits. The foliar application of MLE had a substantial impact on biochemical variables such TSS, vitamin C, total sugars, as well as non-reducing and reducing sugars. The high concentrations of starch, sugar, zinc, and potassium in MLE may be responsible for this rise. Potassium is directly in charge of the movement of carbohydrates from the source (leaves) to the sink (fruits). Zn causes the activation of several photosynthesis-related enzymes, which produces a significant amount of carbohydrates. The similar findings were reported by Kassem (2021) in pomegranate, Hussein et al., (2008) in date palms and Nasira et al. (2016) in ’Kinnow’ mandarin.\r\n','V.A. Anbhu, J. Rajangam, V. Premalakshmi, K. Venkatesan (2022). Influence of Bioextracts on Improving the Yield and Quality of Pomegranate (Punica granatum L.) var. Bhagwa. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 14(3): 230-234.'),(5259,'136','Bioefficacy of Newer Insecticides against Cotton Leafhopper, Amrasca biguttula biguttula (Ishida) under HDPS & Normal Planting Methods','T. Santhoshi*, S. Srinivasa Reddy, M. Rajashekhar, K. Sai Krishna, O. Shaila and V. Divya Rani','41 Bioefficacy of Newer Insecticides against Cotton Leafhopper, Amrasca biguttula biguttula (Ishida) under HDPS & Normal Planting Methods T. Santhoshi.pdf','',1,'The field study was conducted in the year 2021 during Kharif to determine the efficacy of selected new molecule insecticides against Leafhopper, Amrasca biguttula biguttula (Ishida) population in Cotton at Regional Agricultural Research Station(RARS), Palem, PJTSAU, Telangana, India. Due to the continuous and indiscriminate use of synthetic insecticides, there is resistance development in insects and hence the efficacy has become less reliable. To overcome this problem, the discovery of novel substances with different biochemical targets were needed, which are effective at lower doses and have less exposure to the environment.The study revealed that all the treatments were effective in reducing the leafhopper population as compared to control. Flonicamid 50 WG @ 150 gha-1 in HDPS (97.070 per cent) in case of Normal planting (89.620 per cent), which was shown most effective treatment indicating a reduction in the population of leafhoppers and it was followed by Afidopyropen 50 OD 1000 ml ha-1 and Acetamiprid 20 SP @ 150g ha-1, respectively. The highest Cotton yield was recorded from Flonicamid 50 WG@150 gha-1 in HDPS (33.178 q ha-1) and Normal planting (22.753 q ha-1) followed by Afidopyropen 50 OD @ 1000 ml ha-1 and the least Cotton yield was obtained in Cyantraniliprole 10.26 OD @ 500 ml ha-1. The highest Cost Benefit Ratio was achieved with Acetamiprid (Rs. 1:93.81), followed by Imidacloprid (Rs. 1:76.01). The Cotton growers can make an alternative spray of tested insecticides for the management of the Cotton Leafhopper population.','Bioefficacy, Cotton, Cost Benefit Ratio, Flonicamid, HDPS, Leafhopper, Yield','Based on the findings of the present study, it can be inferred that the insecticide Flonicamid 50WP @ 150gha-1 was found to be most effective against the leafhopper population. Next, best treatment was Afidopyropen 50 OD @ 1000 mlha-1. These are the best chemical insecticides for control of the cotton leafhoppers population under both the HDPS and Normal planting conditions.','INTRODUCTION\r\nCotton (Gossypium spp) is commonly known as “White gold” of India. In India Cotton is cultivated on a 12.2 million ha area with a production of 347.05 lakh bales (170kg) and a productivity of 484 kg lint/ha-1 (Sarma et al., 2021). In India, Telangana has the largest acreage of 20.51 lakh ha with production and productivity of 65.87 lakh bales and 545.97 kg ha-1, respectively (Agriculture Statistics at Glance, 2021-2022). Bt-Cotton is more susceptible to attack by sucking insect pest complex viz., Leafhoppers, Amrasca biguttula biguttula (Ishida); Aphids, Aphis gossypii (Glover); Thrips, Thrips tabaci (Lindeman) and Whiteflies, Bemisia tabaci (Gennadius) compared to Desi Cotton. Cotton has been attacked by around 162 species of insects and mites in India, Pest control is necessary for a higher cotton output since pests damage the crop and diminish yield. Due to the Leafhopper, Amrasca biguttula biguttula damage estimated yield loss was reported at about 18.78 percent, whereas due to the sucking pests damage estimated yield loss decreased by about 8.45 q/ha (Sarma et al., 2021). Among all other sucking pests, the cotton leafhopper is an alarming pest throughout the season both the nymphs and adult stages harm the plants by sucking the sap from leaves and transmitting various viruses and causing phytotoxic symptoms known as hopper burn which results in complete desiccation and has become one of the limiting factors in economic productivity of the crop, reducing the growth and yield. Leafhoppers are undoubtedly more severe among the many destructive sucking pests of cotton. Hence, suitable techniques to manage the sucking pest population on transgenic cotton are needed (Bheemanna et al., 2015). Due to the continuous and indiscriminate use of synthetic insecticides, there is resistance and hence the efficacy has become less reliable. To overcome this problem discovery of novel substances with different biochemical targets are needed. Novel molecules are effective at lower doses and have less exposure to the environment (Udikeri et al., 2010).\r\nIncreasing plant density in cotton could be a viable alternative for increasing production and net profits (Naik et al., 2017). Plant spacing has a key role in managing optimum plant density according to the requirement of variety under consideration to boost cotton productivity, especially under irrigated conditions (Nadeem et al., 2010). High-Density Planting System (HDPS) is popularly known as Ultra Narrow Row (UNR) Cotton, which has row spacings less than 20 cm resulting in 2 to 2.5 lakh plants ha-1, while conventional cotton is generally planted in rows at 90 to 100 cm apart it has a plant population of about 1 lakh plants ha-1. The main advantage of UNR spacing is earliness as it needs fewer bolls per plant to achieve the same yield as that of conventional cotton and the crop need not be maintained for the late-formed bolls to mature. Compared to conventionally planted cotton, UNR Cotton plants produce fewer bolls but a higher percentage of total bolls are retained in the first sympodial position than in the second position (Vories and Glover 2006). Adoption of narrow plant spacing with increased plant density may create the congenial condition for sucking pest population build-up in cotton (Singh et al., 2015). In this connection, the present study was carried out to evaluate the per cent reduction of leafhopper population Bt-Cotton under the HDPS and normal with different new molecule insecticides.\r\nMATERIALS AND METHODS\r\nThe experiment was carried out during Kharif, 2021 at Regional Agricultural Research Station (RARS), Palem, PJTSAU, Telangana. The field experiment was laid out in Split Plot Design (SPD) with a plot size of 500 m2with eight treatments, each replicated thrice, the size of each treatment plot was 6.0 m × 5.0 m (30m2). The spacing between row to row and plant to plant was kept 75 cm × 10 cm (HDPS) and 90 cm × 60 cm (Normal) respectively. Cotton hybrid NCS-2778 is the test hybrid chosen for the present investigation. To determine the efficacy of insecticides, two sprays on Bt-cotton were applied. The first spray was carried out based on the Economic Threshold Level (ETL) of leafhoppers and the second spray was followed by subsequently after 10 days interval. The pre-count (1 day before spray) and post-count (3rd and 7th days after spray) of the leafhopper population was recorded by counting the top 3 open leaves of five randomly selected plants of each plot and per cent population reduction over control was calculated.\r\nAll the molecules under study were applied as a foliar spray using a knapsack sprayer. All recommended package of practices were applied to maintain the good plant stand throughout the crop growth period. Treatments details are given in the table below (Table. 1).\r\nStatistical analysis: The percentage reduction of the pest population in each observation was calculated by using Abbott’s formula as given by Flemming and Ratnakaran (1985).\r\nPopulation reduction in percentage (PRP)=\r\n1-(Post-TPT)/(Pre-TPT)* (Pre-TPC)/(Post-TPC)*100\r\nPost treatment population in the treatment = Post-TPT; Pre-treatment population in the treatment = Pre-TPT; Pre-treatment population in control = Pre-TPC; Post-treatment population in control = Post-TPC. \r\nPRP values were transformed into corresponding angular values and subjected to ANOVA using MS-Excel and R studio, respectively.\r\nRESULTS AND DISCUSSION\r\nThe results of the study on the efficacy of new molecule insecticides against cotton leafhoppers are presented in the given tables (Table 2). In pre count the average leafhopper population count per five random plants was recorded in the range of 5.956 to 10.563 and 7.06 to 10.10 per 3 leaves in HDPS and Normal planting, respectively. In insecticidal treatments against the leafhopper population varied significantly at all the post-treatment counts of HDPS and Normal planting. HDPS and Normal planting at 3 DAS (days after spraying) the maximum reduction of the pest over control was recorded with 97.265 and 96.995 per cent in Flonicamid 50 WG, respectively and it has shown supremacy over other treatments, these findings are agreement with Kumari et al. (2021) who reported that flonicamid 50 WG has showed the reduction of leafhoppers populations effectively than other treatments which was followed by Afidopyropen 50 OD with 96.350 and 92.975 per cent, respectively. Acetamiprid 20 SP with 86.140 and 85.605 per cent, respectively and Clothianidin 50 WDG with 73.215 and 75.145 per cent followed by Imidacloprid 17.8 SL with 68.285 and 64.630 per cent respectively and statistically varied with all other treatments. The minimum reduction of leaf hopper population was observed in Diafenthiuron 50 WP with 58.450 and 57.080 per cent, respectively which was followed by Cyantraniliprole 10.26 OD with 56.475 and 53.480 per cent, respectively.\r\n \r\nIn both HDPS and Normal planting 7 DAS (days after spraying), Flonicamid 50 WG was shown supremacy in reducing leafhopper population over control with 97.070 and 89.620 per cent, respectively which was followed by Afidopyropen 50 OD with 93.195 and 90.295 per cent, respectively which was followed by Acetamiprid 20 SP with the 81.025 and 81.810 per cent, respectively and Clothianidin 50 WDG with reduction of 71.120 and 70.005 per cent, respectively. The minimum reduction of leafhopper population was observed in Imidacloprid 17.8 SL with the reduction of 61.765 and 65.310 per cent, respectively which is followed by Diafenthiuron 50 WP with 51.635 and 54.300 per cent and Cyantraniliprole 10.26 OD with the reduction of 54.975 and 49.595 per cent, respectively these are found to be least effective but significantly and statistically superior over the control. The present study results are comparable with the findings of Meghana et al. (2018) who reported that maximum mortality of jassids was found in Flonicamid treated plots. Baraskar and Paradkar (2020) reported that Flonicamid 50WG was effective in controlling the cotton leafhopper population. Similar results are also reported by Bharpoda et al. (2014) and the results derive support from the findings of Nemade et al. (2017) reported that Flonicamid gives the best results by lowering the leafhoppers population. Kadam et al. (2014) reported that Clothianidin and Imidacloprid were affecting reducing the populations of leafhoppers and the present findings are in line with the findings of Suman et al. (2021) reported that the Afidopyropen was found to be effective against leafhopper population.\r\n \r\nYield. The data on (Table 4) Cotton yield in HDPS and Normal spacing revealed that all the insecticidal treatments registered significantly higher cotton yield over untreated control. Among the all treatments, Flonicamid 50 WG @ 150gha-1 recorded higher cotton yield (33.18 q ha-1)and (22.76 q ha-1) respectively, followed by Afidopyropen 50OD @ 1000 mlha-1 (29.88 q ha-1) and (22.43 q ha-1), respectively and were on par with each other. The leastcotton yield was obtained in Cyantraniliprole 10.26 OD @ 500 ml ha-1 (20.68 q ha-1) and (17.44 q ha-1), respectively. The highest Cost-Benefit Ratio was achieved with Acetamiprid (Rs. 1:93.81) and which was followed by Imidacloprid (Rs. 1:76.01) which is followed by Flonicamid (Rs.1:40.92), respectively.\r\n','T. Santhoshi, S. Srinivasa Reddy, M. Rajashekhar, K. Sai Krishna, O. Shaila and V. Divya Rani (2022). Bioefficacy of Newer Insecticides against Cotton Leafhopper, Amrasca biguttula biguttula (Ishida) under HDPS & Normal Planting Methods. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 14(3): 235-239.'),(5260,'136','Socio-economic Profile of the Poultry Farmers of Contract and Non- contract Broiler Farming in Eastern Plain Zone of Uttar Pradesh','Mustak Ahamad, H.C. Verma*, R.K. Singh, Subodh Kumar, R.P. Diwakar and Amit Kumar','42 Socio-economic Profile of the Poultry Farmers of Contract and Non- contract Broiler Farming in Eastern Plain Zone of Uttar Pradesh R P Diwakar.pdf','',1,'The present study was carried out by research scholar of department of veterinary & A.H. extension education, ANDUAT, Kumarganj, and Ayodhya in the eastern plain zone of Uttar Pradesh. The state was purposively selected because, broiler farming in Uttar Pradesh as already discussed is in developing stage as compared to southern, western and other north Indian states like Punjab, Haryana etc. There is a substantial gap in demand and supply of poultry meat and table eggs. Uttar Pradesh being the most populous state and having large population engaged in both contract and non contract broiler poultry production. The Eastern Plain Zone was selected purposively due to highest poultry population among all other zones. The Eastern Plain Zone comprises of 12 districts namely Ambedkar nagar, Azamgarh, Ballia, Barabanki, Chandauli, Faizabad, Ghazipur, Jaunpur, Mau, Sant Ravidas Nagar, Sultanpur and Varanasi. For the present study, three districts viz. Sultanpur, Amethi and Pratpagarh were selected purposively out of 12 districts, on the basis of poultry population. Two District Ambedkarnagar and Sultanpur were selected from eastern plain zone of Uttar Pradesh, purposively on the basis of poultry population and intensity of contract broiler farmers. From each block, two lists, one of contract broiler farmers and other of non-contract broiler fanners were prepared, from each list 20 contract and 20 non-contract poultry farmers having at least 2000 birds and two years of experience in poultry farming were selected randomly. Thus from each block 40 farmers (20 contract and 20 non-contract) were selected which make the total sample size of 160 broiler farmers (80 contract and 80 non-contract). Majority of the respondents (56.25%) were belonging to middle age category followed by young age (23.75) and old age (20.00) respectively. Maximum percentage (46.25%) of contract broiler farmers belonged to OBC caste followed by general (32.50%). Overall, 61.25 per cent of the broiler farmers in the study area were Hindu, followed by Muslim (38.75%). Majority (51.25%) of the contract broiler farmers belonged to nuclear family type, followed by joint family (48.75%). The result of socio-economic status like Age, education, family type, family size, experience, occupation of poultry farmer play important role in rate adoption and get more economy of poultry farmers in contract and non-contract pattern of broiler poultry farming.','Socio-economic profile, Poultry farmers, Contract farming, Non-contract farming','Majority of the respondents (56.25%) were belonging to middle age category followed by young age (23.75) and old age (20.00) respectively in pooled poultry farmers. Maximum percentage (46.25%) of contract broiler farmers belonged to OBC caste followed by general (32.50%). Overall, 61.25 per cent of the broiler farmers in the study area were Hindu, followed by Muslim (38.75%). Majority (51.25%) of the contract broiler farmers belonged to nuclear family type, followed by joint family (48.75%). While 53.75 per cent non-contract broiler farmers belonged to joint family and the rest 46.25 per cent belonged to nuclear family system. More than fifty per cent of the broiler farmers (52.50%) under contract broiler farming system had medium family size (7-9 members) followed by small (35.00%) and large (12.50%). fifty per cent contract broiler farmers (52.50%) had engaged agriculture and broiler farming followed by Agriculture (28.75%), Agriculture + Business (10.00%) and agriculture and services (8.75%). So the result of socio-economic status like Age, education, family type, family size, experience, occupation of poultry farmer play important role in rate adoption and get more economy of poultry farmers in contract and non-contract pattern of broiler poultry farming.','INTRODUCTION\r\nBroiler poultry farming plays an effective role in improving the economic status of the rural poultry farmers by increasing their socioeconomic condition besides providing nutritious food through meat. There is regional variation in poultry production like contract and non-contract patter of poultry farming in India Poultry is one of the fastest growing segments of the agricultural sector in India today. During the 2013–14 fiscal years, the nation exported 4.3 million metric tons of poultry products to the rest of the world for a total of Rs. 565.87 crores (APEDA, 2013). Broiler farming plays an effective role in improving the economic status of the rural people by increasing their income besides providing nutritious food through meat. There is regional variation in poultry production in India. The northern region is lagging behind as compared to southern and with in northern region. In northern region UP has poor performance as compared to Haryana and Punjab. The total Poultry in the country is 851.81 Million in 2019, increased by 16.8% over previous Census. The total Backyard Poultry in the country is 317.07 Million in 2019, increased by 45.8% over previous Census. The total Commercial Poultry in the country is 534.74 Million in 2019, increased by 4.5% over previous Census. According to estimates, in India, a vertically integrated system produced 90% of the poultry in the Southern region, 80% in the Western region, 70% in the Eastern region, and 10% in the Northern region (Rajan 2006). The socio-economic status like Age, education, family type, family size, experience, occupation of poultry farmer play important role in rate adoption and get more economy of poultry farmers in contract and non-contract pattern of broiler poultry farming. \r\nMATERIALS AND METHODS\r\nThe Eastern Plain Zone was selected purposively due to highest poultry population among all other zones. The Eastern Plain Zone comprises of 12 districts namely Ambedkar nagar, Azamgarh, Ballia, Barabanki, Chandauli, Faizabad, Ghazipur, Jaunpur, Mau, Sant Ravidas Nagar, Sultanpur and Varanasi. For the present study, three districts viz. Sultanpur, Amethi and Pratpagarh were selected purposively out of 12 districts, on the basis of poultry population. Two District Ambedkarnagar and Sultanpur was selected from eastern plain zone of Uttar Pradesh, purposively on the basis of poultry population and intensity of contract broiler farmers. From each block, two lists, one of contract broiler farmers and other of non-contract broiler fanners were prepared. From each list 20 contract and 20 non-contract poultry farmers having at least 2000 birds and two years of experience in poultry farming were selected randomly. Thus from each block 40 farmers (20 contract and 20 non-contract) were selected which make the total sample size of 180 broiler farmers (80 contract and 80 non-contract). \r\nRESULTS AND DISCUSION\r\n1. Age. The Table 1 reveals that pooled mean age of broiler farmers was 39.25 years. The average age of the contract and non-contract broiler farmers was 38.66 and 39.85 years, respectively. It is evident from the table that maximum percentage of respondents (60.63%) was middle, followed by old (20.62%) and young age category (18.75%). In case of contract broiler farming majority of the respondents (56.25%) were belonging to middle age category followed by young age (23.75) and old age (20.00) respectively. While, maximum Non contract based farmers belonged to middle aged group (65.00) followed by old (21.25) and young (13.75). Ram swami et al. (2006) also reported similar findings as average age of the farmers engaged in contract and non-contact broiler farming were 36 and 39 years, respectively. Babu (2013) also reported that majority of the farmers engaged in broiler farming belongs to young age group (Fig.1.).\r\n2. Education. In the Table 2 analyzed that 37.50 per cent broiler farmers under contract broiler farming system were graduate, followed by Primary (17.50%), Middle (16.25%), high school (12.50%), post graduate (11.25 %), intermediate (3.75 %) and illiterate (1.25%).\r\nWhile under non-contract broiler farming system 38.75 per cent farmers were graduate followed by primary (17.50 %), middle (13.75%), high school (12.50%), post graduate (10.00%), intermediate (5.00%), Illiterate (2.50%). Overall, 38.12 per cent broiler farmers were having education up to graduate, followed by Primary (17.50%), middle (15.00%), high school (12.50%), intermediate and post graduate (8.75%), illiterate (1.87%).Similar findings reported by Bhimraj et al. (2017) (Fig. 2).\r\n3. Caste. A cursory on Table 3 reveals that maximum percentage (46.25%) of contract broiler farmers belonged to OBC caste followed by general (32.50%). While under non-contract broiler farming system 52.50 per cent respondents were found to OBC caste category followed by general (32.50%) and SC (15.00%). On overall basis also 49.38 per cent of the broiler farmers were under OBC caste category, followed by general (32.50%) and SC (18.12%) (Fig. 3).\r\n4. Religion. Table 4 reveals that more than fifty per cent of the broiler farmers belonged to Hindu (63.75%) religion followed by Muslim (36.25%). While in case of non-contract broiler farming systems 58.75 per cent of the broiler farmers belonged to Hindu religion and rest 41.25 per cent were Muslim. Overall, 61.25 per cent of the broiler farmers in the study area were Hindu, followed by Muslim (38.75%) (Fig. 4).\r\n5. Land holding. Table 5 reveals that the average land holding size contract and non-contract broiler farmers were 2.44 and 2.24 respectively.\r\nThe study also revealed that highest percentage (42.25%) of the contract broiler farmers had medium land holding followed by small (33.75%), large (13.75%), and marginal (10.00%). While, in case of non-contract broiler farming system majority of the broiler farmers (46.25%) had medium land holding, followed by small (32.50%), Marginal (15.00%) and large (6.25%). Overall average land holding of broiler farmers was 2.34. Similar findings reported by Bhimraj et al. (2017) (Fig. 5).\r\n6. Type of Family. The Table 6 Shows that majority (51.25%) of the contract broiler farmers belonged to nuclear family type, followed by joint family (48.75%). While 53.75 per cent non-contract broiler farmers belonged to joint family and the rest 46.25 per cent belonged to nuclear family system. Overall, majority (51.25%) of the broiler farmers having joint family, followed by nuclear family (48.75%). Khan (2006); Mandal et al. (2006); Babu (2013) also reported the similar findings.\r\n7. Size of Family. Table 7 reveals that more than fifty per cent of the broiler farmers (52.50%) under contract broiler farming system had medium family size (7-9 members) followed by small (35.00%) and large (12.50%). While in case of non-contract broiler farming system of the broiler farmers (50.00%) had medium family size, followed by small (27.50%) and large (22.50%). Overall, about fifty per cent of the broiler farmers (51.25%) had medium family size, followed by small (31.25%) and large (17.50%). Mohanraj and Manivannan (2012) also reported similar findings (Fig. 6).\r\n8. Occupation. Table 8 indicates that about fifty per cent contract broiler farmers (52.50%) had engaged agriculture and broiler farming followed by Agriculture (28.75%), Agriculture + Business (10.00%) and agriculture and services (8.75%). While maximum percentage of non- contract broiler farmers (46.25%) engaged in agriculture followed by agriculture and broiler farming (35.00%), agriculture and business (11.25%) and agriculture and service (7.50%). Ramaswami (2006); Gopala et al. (2017) also reported the similar findings (Fig. 7).\r\n','Mustak Ahamad, H.C. Verma, R.K. Singh, Subodh Kumar, R.P. Diwakar and Amit Kumar (2022). Socio-economic Profile of the Poultry Farmers of Contract and Non- contract Broiler Farming in Eastern Plain Zone of Uttar Pradesh. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 14(3): 240-244.'),(5261,'136','Development of Fig Chikki using Fig powder (Ficus Carica) and its storage stability studies','Vidhya Lakshmi A., Karuna Ashok Appugol, Irengbam Barun Mangang, Jagan Mohan R. and Loganathan M.*\r\n','43 Development of Fig Chikki using Fig powder (Ficus Carica) and its storage stability studies Vidhya Raja.pdf','',1,'Fig (Ficus carica) is a nutritionally rich fruit traditionally grown and commercially available as dried preserved fruit. It is an important fruit for health based on its nutritional composition. It is commercially available only in dried form which makes it an underutilized fruit. But considering the high nutritional aspects it should be made available in consumer preferred form which can be marketed easily. Thus the fig was made as powder by drying of figs using method of Low Temperature Low Humidity (LTLH) drying and then grinding. The fig powder was incorporated to produce value added product of Fig chikki. The prepared product was analyzed for various physiochemical parameters and the changes in physio chemical parameters upon storage of 30 days was noted and it was compared to control samples. The fig chikkis was found to have 2.1 % of moisture, 17.8 % of protein, 21 % of fat, 5.6 % of crude fiber, 3.3 % of ash, 0.04 % acidity, 26 % reducing sugar, 5.1 mg of ascorbic acid, 107 mg of total phenolic content, 36 % of antioxidant activity with 0.5 water activity, pH value of 6.4 and color difference (ΔE) of only 10.6 at the end of 30 days of storage. Upon storage, although the values were significantly different from control it was with only slight differences except protein content, crude fiber, ascorbic acid, total phenolic content which was majorly higher in fig chikkis. Upon sensory evaluation, the fig chikkis had better flavor, hardness, sweetness than the control, while other parameters were slightly lesser to control. The value added product of chikkis can be prepared using fig powder which had improved nutritional properties than normal ones and it was found to have desirable sensory quality on 30 days of storage. ','Fig powder, Value added product, Dried figs powder, Storage, Physico Chemical qualities','The LTLH dried figs was used to obtain fig powder and it was incorporated into value added product of fig chikkis. The various physio chemical parameters of the product were analyzed and the storage stability and sensory analysis were done. The fig chikkis was found to have 2.1 % of moisture, 17.8 % of protein, 21 % of fat, 5.6 % of crude fiber, 3.3 % of ash, 0.04 % acidity, 26 % reducing sugar, 5.1 mg of ascorbic acid, 107 mg of total phenolic content, 36 % of antioxidant activity with 0.5 water activity, pH value of 6.4 and color difference (ΔE) of only 10.6 at the end of 30 days of storage which was similar to control except change in color. The advantage of incorporating figs is that a higher protein content, crude fiber, ascorbic acid and total phenolic content was recorded than control. The fig chikki had better flavor, hardness, sweetness than the control, while other parameters were slightly lesser to control. Thus, the value added product of chikki prepared using fig powder had improved nutritional properties than control product. Hence, it is concluded that the fig product had improved physio chemical properties and desirable sensory qualities even on 30 days of storage. ','INTRODUCTION\r\nFig (Ficus carica) belongs to the family Moraceae has been growing since 4000 B.C. Figs are syconia, multiple druplet fruits with a distinctive “inside-out” structure (Mawa et al., 2013). Fig can be harvested twice a year and its regarded as a seasonal fruit. Depending on the cultivar, it is harvested either in the spring or in the early or late summer (Ouchemoukh et al., 2012). Fig is a commercially valuable crop (Kitajima et al., 2018). A mature fresh fig has a pulp content of 84 % and a skin content of 16 % (Hiwale, 2015). The fresh figs contain moisture (89.8%), carbohydrate (17.1%), protein (1.3%), fat (0.2%), mineral matter (0.6%), phosphorus (0.03%), calcium (0.06%), and iron (12 mg). It also has carotene (162 μg), thiamine (60 μg), riboflavin (50 μg), and niacin (600 μg) per 100 g (Cheema and Bhatt, 1954). While the dried figs contained water (15.7%), reducing sugar (62.84%), protein (3.39%), ash (2.10%), crude fiber (5.80%), acid (0.42%) (Hiwale et al., 2015). Because of the large amount of dietary fiber, vitamins, and minerals in dried figs, they have a better nutrition profile than all other dried fruits (Badgujar et al., 2014).\r\nThere are many varieties (about 1,000 varieties) under cultivation which may have common characteristics. Turkey is the highest leading producer of figs (Hiwale, 2015) followed by Egypt, Moracco, Greece, Iran, and Algeria that account for 70 % of global annual fig production (FAOSTAT, 2022). Mineral amounts differed significantly amongst the sample groups grown in Italy, Greece and Turkey (Lo Turco et al., 2020). Figs are also a source of a number of bioactive compounds that are found in the peel, pulp, and leaves includes cyanidin 3-rutinoside, epicatechin, and caftaric acid, respectively (Teruel-Andreu et al., 2021). \r\nThe traditional medicine field has been using fig products to treat a variety of diseases, primarily in the treatment of skin (Zhang et al., 2020). The fig plant\'s leaves, roots, and latex are recognized for the health benefits, including antihelminthic, antifungal, acetyl cholinesterase inhibition and anticarcinogenic effects (Arvaniti et al., 2019). It was reported that fig is used to treat a variety of ailments including gastric problems, inflammation and cancer. (Mawa et al., 2013).\r\nFresh figs are extremely susceptible to decay and the post-harvest life is very short (Kong et al., 2013). So the fresh figs are processed, dried, stored, and consumed as a dried fruit for enhanced shelf life and safer storage. Previous studies have reported that the analysis of various physicochemical parameters of fig powder revealed that it is rich source of sugars, fiber, potassium (Khapre et al., 2014) which can be incorporated in various value added products like milk shake, ice cream, toffee and burfi (Khapre, 2011) .\r\nValue added products can be prepared using fig pulp, dried fig and also by incorporating fig powder. The products like fig jam having 0.7 %pectin and 0.3 % (Kumari et al., 2018), fruit bar with 20 % fig puree and 80 % mango puree (Pawase et al., 2018), fresh rabri, with 150g of fig pulp for every 1 liter of sweetened condensed milk (Dhemre et al., 2018) was prepared using fig pulp.\r\nThe dried figs were crushed and filtered to prepare a microbial biotechnological product like wine from dried fig using Saccharomyces cerevisiae, the wine had 4 % alcohol (Kadam and Upadhye 2011), also wine was made from sliced figs (Jeong et al., 2005). The fig powder was found to be better in terms of ease of processing and yield, in contrast to fig pulp and dried figs. Fig powder was also incorporated to prepare burfi (Khapre et al., 2015), goat’s yogurt (Mahmoudi et al., 2021) and cookies Khapre et al. (2015).\r\nChikki, also known as peanut brittle, is a famous Indian sweet snack enjoyed by a greater portion of population. Chikki is a hard crunchy product which is golden brown colored, that contains peanut pieces and has a distinct peanut flavour (Pallavi & Chetana 2014). There are various types of chikki based on the added ingredients, such as groundnut chikki, roasted bengal gram chikki, sesame chikki, and so on. The peanut chikki can be done using incorporation of various raw materials like sesame seed, ragi flour, flaxseed (Chetana & Sunkireddy, 2011), pomegranate juice (Devhare et al., 2021), even various nutraceuticals was used to enrich the chikki (Ramakrishna & Pamisetty 2014). Multigrain flour is now used in the preparation for maximum health benefits (Abhirami & Karpagapandi 2018).\r\nBased upon this research, this study aims at preparation of value of added product of Fig Chikki by incorporating fig powder and to study their effects upon storage for 30 days on various physico chemical parameters.\r\n\r\n\r\nMATERIALS AND METHODS\r\nA. Preparation of Fig Powder\r\nThe fresh figs of Deanna variety were purchased from orchards of Namakkal district of Tamil Nadu, India, dried and powdered. The figs were cleaned, washed and cut into round shaped slices of 0.5 ± 1.0 mm thickness. The slices were pretreated with 0.2% KMS solution. It was observed that the fresh fig slices had a mean diameter of 31.28 ± 3.66 mm and weighed 3.79 ± 0.24 g. The fresh figs were stored in a refrigerated condition of 4 ± 1°C until subjecting them to drying. The figs were subjected to drying by using a novel method of Low Temperature Low Humidity (LTLH) drying. The fresh fig slices were placed in the drying chamber and dried in the set condition of 30°C and 10 % RH until the moisture is reduced to 5 %. The dried fig samples were cooled in a desiccator and stored in polyethylene zip lock pouches in ambient temperature. The LTLH dried figs were grinded to get fig powder which was sieved using two sieves of mesh sizes 707 and 505 μm. The sieved fig powder was added with 1 % of tri-calcium phosphate as an anticaking agent as described by Khapre et al. (2015). The prepared fresh fig powder had an average particle size of 465nm. \r\nIngredients. The ingredients needed for the chikki preparation includes peanuts and jaggery along with above items. All the ingredients were purchased from local markets of Thanjavur, Tamil Nadu and stored in ambient conditions.\r\nB. Fig Chikki Preparation\r\nFig chikki was prepared using the method described by Ramakrishna & Pamisetty (2014) with required modifications (Fig. 1). The process (Fig. 2) involves roasting of peanuts at a temperature of 120 to 140 °C for 20 minutes. The outer peanut skin was removed and the nuts were broken into two pieces. The ratio of ingredients followed were 3:1:1 indicating the roasted peanuts, peanut fines and fig powder (Table 1). The ingredients were weighed accordingly. The jaggery was added with half ratio of water to prepare syrup and heated to 145°C for 20 minutes. Once the syrup is thickened with desired consistency, it was added with roasted peanuts, peanut fines and fig powder and mixed well. It was spread in a greased tray and the chikkis were cut into small square pieces. Similarly, the control chikkis were prepared without the fig powder.\r\nStorage of prepared products. The value added product was prepared and stored for storage studies. The chikkis was stored in polyethylene zip lock pouches at ambient room temperature conditions for 30 days.\r\nC. Physicochemical analysis of product\r\nThe prepared product was analyzed for various physico chemical parameters for 0, 15 and 30 days and the changes were noted. The moisture, protein, fat, crude fiber, ash, titratable acidity, reducing sugar, and ascorbic acid content of fig products and control products were determined using the methods described by AOAC (2021) and Ranganna, (1995).\r\nWater activity and Ph. The water activity of samples was recorded using a water activity meter (Aqua lab dew point, Water activity meter 4TE). The temperature during measurement was recorded and it was kept constant at 27 ± 1°C. The pH of samples was recorded using the pH meter (Horiba- PH1100, Model: 9615S, Japan).\r\nColor and ΔE. The color of the product was assessed with a colorimeter (Hunter lab color flex EZ, Model: CFEZ0925,Hunter Associate Laboratory, Inc., Reston, Virginia, USA) by measuring opposite sides of the products. In CIE color coordinates, measurements were recorded as L* (lightness to darkness), a* (greenness to redness), and b* (blueness to yellowness). The colorimeter had a viewing area of 64 mm diameter and it was calibrated using the standard black and white tile provided (X-80.06, Y- 85.06, Z-89.63) before taking every sample reading. The change in color (ΔE) of the products was assessed using the method described by Monisha & Loganathan (2021) and Ruangchakpet a & Sajjaanantakul (2007). \r\nΔE=√((L_c*-L)^2+(a_c*-a*)^2+〖(b_c*-b*)〗^2 )\r\n\r\nTotal phenolic Content. The phenolic content of the product were analyzed using the Folin-Ciocalteau method for total phenolic content assay as described by Singleton et al.(1999) using catechol standards. The absorbance was read in a UV spectrophotometer (Make: Shimadzu; Model: UV-1800) and it was expressed as mg Gallic acid equivalents per 100g of sample.\r\nAntioxidant Assay. The antioxidant activity of the product was quantified using the DPPH method as described by Williams et al.(1995) using methanolic extracts of the samples and the DPPH inhibition activity (%) was recorded.\r\nC. Statistical analysis \r\nThe experimental assays were performed in triplicates and data of these various physicochemical parameters were statistically analyzed to find the significance of the results. The results of physicochemical data were expressed as means ± standard deviations and it was compared with control samples. One-way analysis of variance (ANOVA) was computed using Minitab (Version 17.3.1). Turkey test was done at a 5% level of significance and when p < 0.05 the data were considered significant. \r\nSensory Evaluation. The sensory evaluation of the prepared product was carried out with a panel of 25 semi-trained judges by using the 9-point hedonic scale. The various parameters analyzed for chikkis includes appearance, color, hardness, crunchiness, flavor, mouth feel, taste, sweetness, overall acceptability. The data obtained was analyzed by following the method of Descriptive analysis as described by Ramakrishna & Pamisetty (2014) using the Fizz WEB by Biosystems Sensory Software.\r\n\r\nRESULTS AND DISCUSSIONS\r\nA. Analysis of various physicochemical parameters of product and its effect of storage\r\nMoisture. The moisture content of fig peanut chikki was in range of 0.7 (F0) to 2.1 % (F30) while in control, it was 1.7 (C0) to 2.1 % (C30) (Table 2). The control samples had a higher moisture than fig peanut chikki initially. The moisture was found to be increasing during storage. But after 15 days, the moisture was not found to be significantly different between control and fig sample. Both samples had a lesser moisture of 2.1 % at the end of storage of 30 days. The fig peanut chikki was found to have a very less moisture content ranging from 0.7 to 2.1 % (Table 2) which was comparatively less than a similar product of peanut chikki made from pomegranate peel powder (Devhare et al., 2021), pumpkin peanut chikki and also commercial chikki samples (Mala et al., 2015). Thus the storage stability may be better with a lesser moisture content. Thus it is concluded that fig powder had no influence on moisture content of the product upon 30 days of storage.\r\nProtein. It was reported that the amount of protein in the dried figs was found to increase than in fresh figs during the drying and dehydration of figs (Hiwale, 2015). The fig product had a greater storage stability in protein levels in all 4 samples as the values were not significantly different upon storage of 30 days. When fig peanut chikki is considered, it had a very high protein levels because of peanuts ranging from 17.5(F0) to 17.9 % (F15) which was comparatively higher than in control chikki samples ranging from 14.9(C30) to 15.1 %(C0) (Table 2). This protein content of fig chikkis concurred with the nutra chikki prepared by Pallavi & Chetana (2014). Both the control and fig chikkis were rich in protein which was higher than other common peanut chikki (Hirdyani & Charak 2015; Mala et al., 2015; Tidke et al., 2017). All the fig incorporated samples had a higher protein content than their respective control samples even upon storage showing the significance of value addition.\r\nFat. The figs naturally had a lower fat content (Gopalan et al., 1989) and it was also reported that figs are fat and cholesterol-free (Solomon et al., 2006). The fig chikkis were found to have fat content of 21 % (F30) and the control had 23 percent (C30) after 30 days of storage (Table 2). Upon storage the fat content was decreasing which showed the significant difference among the samples. On comparing, the fig chikkis had lesser fat content than control chikkis for respective storage day sample.\r\nCrude Fiber. Fig is a combination of fiber and minerals naturally (Venu et al., 2005). The fresh figs had a crude fiber content of 6.5 % which was found to be increased upon drying. Even fig powder was considered to be a rich source of fiber and it had a dietary fiber of 15.4 % (Khapre, 2011). The fig peanut chikki had crude fiber of 5.7 % (F30) while control samples had 4 % (C0) at end of 30 days (Table 2). It was observed that there was slight reduction in control chikki on storage, while in fig peanut chikki did not showing significant difference during storage. All the chikki samples had a higher crude fiber content when compared with their respective control samples. The crude fiber content was higher than in other reported chikki products using pomegranate peel powder (Devhare et al., 2021), pumpkin peanut chikki and also commercial chikki samples (Hirdyani & Charak, 2015; Mala et al., 2015). These results revealed that all fig products had good crude fiber content.\r\nAsh. The ash of the chikkiswas found to be 3.3% (F30) and the control had 3.4 percent (C30) after 30 days of storage (Table 2). The ash content of both control and fig chikki samples were reducing upon storage and thus the significant difference was noted. But all the samples were having same range of values as control revealing no negative effect of fig product.\r\nTitratable Acidity. The titratable acidity is proportional to the amount of organic acids present in the fruits (Kays, 1991). The titratable acidity of fig chikki was found to be reducing upon storage and ranged from 0.04 (F30) to 0.08 % in fig sample(F0) and 0.03(C30) to 0.05 % in control (C0) (Table 2). The acidity of control chikki samples was found to be significantly different from respective fig sample of same storage day. All the control samples had a lesser acidity than their respective fig samples. Upon storage, the acidity of chikki samples was found to be decreasing. The findings indicated that acidity of fig incorporated products were reducing upon storage.\r\nReducing Sugars. The fig fruits are recorded to be dominant in glucose and fructose (Fateh & Ferchich, 2009). Sugars and organic acid content in fresh figs were lower than in dried figs (Slatnar et al., 2011). It was ranged from 26.0 (F30) to 29.5 % in fig chikki (F0) while in control chikki, it was 26.0 (C30) to 27.0 % (C0) (Table 2). The product was found to have reducing sugars ranged from 26 to 29.5 which was found to be slightly decreasing upon storage. The results of the storage analysis showed that the reducing sugars in chikki samples, were different for initial 15 days but both control and fig chikki had same quantity of 26 % at end of 30 days (Table 2). It was found that fig samples had not much higher difference from that of control samples even upon storage.\r\nAscorbic Acid. Vitamin C also known as ascorbic acid is highly susceptible to oxygen and heat. It can be degraded even by oxidation even upon drying under low oxygen circumstances (Kaya et al., 2010). Upon heat treatments like drying or dehydration, loss of vitamin C has been widely reported (Piga et al., 2004; Ryley & Kajda, 1994; Lund, 1988). The amount of ascorbic acid found in the sample was expressed as mg/ 100ml of sample extract. Initially, the control chikki (C0) had a very less amount (0.9) of ascorbic acid on comparing to fig chikki (F0) which had ascorbic acid of 5.6 mg. It was observed that all chikki samples showed no significant losses of ascorbic acid upon storage (Table 2). \r\nAfter a storage period of 30 days, the fig samples had higher content of ascorbic acid than control samples. Hence it is reported that fig product had better retention of ascorbic acid or Vitamin C.\r\nWater activity, pH. The water activity of fig chikki,was from 0.48 (F0) to 0.50 (F30) (Table 2) and upon storage there was significant difference observed between the samples. The water activity of samples was found to be increasing upon storage. Molds were identified in dried figs, which can grow in low water activity environments and cause microbial spoilage such as undesirable flavors, discoloration, putrefaction, and toxin production(Abellana et al., 1999). Thus water activity has to be monitored for safer storage of figs.\r\nThe pH of the samples can be related to acidity of the figs. The present results of pH in chikki samples revealed that there is significant decrease upon storage and ranged from 6.5(C0) to 6.4in control (C30) and 6.7 (F0) to 6.4 in fig samples (F30) (Table 2). It was found that fig sample had a slightly higher pH than the control sample for each respective storage sample. Therefore, on comparison, it is evident that the products had not much difference on the water activity and pH from that of control.\r\nTotal Phenolic Content. Figs are naturally an excellent source of phenolic compounds which contained a higher concentration of total phenolic in the skin than in flesh (Vallejo et al., 2012). But, there was more phenolic content of 105 (F15) to 107 (F0 and F30) mg in fig chikki due to heat processing while control chikki had 69 (C30) to 71 (C0) mg (Table 2). Each individual control sample of specific storage day was significantly different from that of fig sample. All fig incorporated samples had a higher phenolic content than control revealing the significance of value addition. Upon storage of 30 days, both in control and treated samples there was no significant difference. Thus it is concluded that value addition using figs had increased the total phenolic content of products and storage had no negative effect.\r\nAntioxidant Activity. The antioxidant activities of figs are positively associated with their phenolic compound content (Arvaniti et al., 2019) and anthocyanin content (Solomon et al., 2006; Çalişkan & Aytekin Polat 2011). In chikki, the antioxidant property of the product has lesser due to phenolic compounds degradation upon heat processing. There was significant decreasing effect upon 30 days of storage of chikki (Table 2). On comparing the control and fig samples, the control had lowest of 35 % (C30) while the fig chikki had higher of 36 % (F30). Thus, the present results supported the addition of fig which increased the antioxidant activity of products better than the control even upon storage. Color. Color is a crucial feature because it is often the first thing a customer notices (Saenz et al., 1993). The heat treatment of food is linked to a change in hue. Food color retention following thermal processing can be used to forecast the degree to which food quality deteriorates as a result of heat exposure (Shin & Bhowrnik, 1995). The fig chikki had L* values ranged from38.9 (F30) to 50.6 (F0), a* value was from 12.6(F15) to 13.7(F0) and b* value was from 37.4(F15) to 38.2(F0) (Table 3). The chikkis had significant difference in ΔE values upon storage only after 15 days and thus its concluded that storage had changed the color of chikki. These results indicate that color change was observed in fig chikki upon storage.\r\nB. Analysis of Sensory Attributes of Prepared Products\r\nThe Sensory parameters were analyzed using descriptive analysis and was compared to control of respective products (Fig. 3). The fig chikkis had an overall sensory score of 8.48, while the control chikkis had 8.09 (Table 4). The parameters like appearance, color, crunchiness, mouthfeel, taste of fig chikki were slightly lesser than control. But it was noted that the parameters like hardness, flavor, sweetness of fig chikki was found to have a higher score than the control (Table 4). Thus it is concluded that the fig chikki had better flavor and hardness than the control.\r\n','Vidhya Lakshmi A., Karuna Ashok Appugol, Irengbam Barun Mangang, Jagan Mohan R. and Loganathan M.* (2022). Development of Fig Chikki using Fig powder (Ficus Carica) and its storage stability studies. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 14(3): 245-252.'),(5262,'136','Investigation of Physical, Engineering and Bio-chemical Traits of Tamarind Genotypes','Sreedevi M.S.*, Rajkumar P., Palanimuthu V., Hanumanthappa D.C., Surendrakumar A., Ganapathy S. and Geethalakshmi I.','44 Investigation of Physical, Engineering and Bio-chemical Traits of Tamarind Genotypes Sreedevi.pdf','',1,'Tamarind, a multipurpose, long-lived hardwood tree, popular spice condiment and utilized for its fruits. Because of wide diversity in fruits for varied traits, investigating selected genotypes for different aspects like yield, physical, engineering and biochemical parameters is important. Therefore, the present study was undertaken at the AICRP on Post-Harvest Engineering and Technology (PHET), University of Agricultural Sciences (UAS), Gandhi Krishi Vignana Kendra (GKVK), Bengaluru during the year 2020-2021 to identify the tamarind genotypes for higher yield and quality as well as to know the amount of diversity exist in tamarind crop. An experiment was emphasized mainly on the physical, engineering and bio-chemical characteristics of seven different tamarind genotypes. The results showed that there was wide variation was observed in size, shape, geometric mean diameter, sphericity index, bulk density, true density, porosity, composition of fruit, bio-chemical properties and colour. Among the seven genotypes studied, the genotype NFN-7 was found superior over others for almost all the traits. Hence, genotype NFN-7 is most promising and having immense potential for commercial cultivation and which can also be used for further studies for pulp improvement.','Tamarind, Genotypes, Physical characters, Engineering characters, Bio-chemical characters','It can be inferred as natural wealth of tamarind fruit as wider diversity traits. Which offer more scope for future improvement in tamarind through the selection of elite genotypes, more importantly for the higher fruit and pulp content. From the current investigation results, we noticed that there is wide variation for many characters even within seven genotypes. The genotype NFN-7 was found superior for fruit characters and quality over all other genotypes. Therefore, the genotype NFN-7 found to be most promising and can be utilized for further evaluation as well as for commercial cultivation. ','INTRODUCTION\r\nTamarind is a multipurpose, long-lived hardwood tree utilized for its fruits, which are eaten raw or processed. In the eighteenth century, Linnaeus named it as Tamarindus indica, inspired by the Arabic name Tamar-i-hind, means date of India (EI-Siddig et al., 2006). Tamarind is a popular spice condiment that can be found in every South Asian kitchen. It has a sweet and tart flavour. The nutritive chemical compounds present in tamarind pulp and date (khajur) reveal that energy, fat and carbohydrates are more in date, while the contents of protein, minerals, calcium, carotene and essential amino acids are more in tamarind pulp. Thus, the Arabians rightly named the tamarind tree as ‘Date-palm from India’ and the tamarind fruit as ‘Indian date’ (Shah, 2014). The tamarind tree is a very huge tree with long, thick limbs that droop and dense foliage. The height of a fully developed tree could be up to 80 feet. The tree produces fruit pods in profusion throughout each season, covering all of its branches. Each pod has a tough outer shell that surrounds a soft, dark-brown pulp that contains two to ten dark-brown seeds. Tamarind pulp and seeds are connected by a strong fibre network. On an average, a tamarind pod is composed of shell (15-25%), pulp (45-55%), seeds (25-35%), fiber (10-15%). The edible portion of dried tamarind contains moisture (15-30%), protein (2.0-8.79%), tartaric acid (8.0-18.0%), carbohydrates (56.70-70.70%), fibre (2.20-18-30%), reducing sugar (25.0-45.0%), and protein (2.0-4.0%) (Shankaracharya, 1998). The most outstanding characteristic of tamarind is its most acidic nature with total acidity range varying from 12.2 to 23.8% of tartaric acid. When fruits are ripe, the pulp is rust-colored and contains 38% moisture (Deokar et al., 2019). \r\nThe area, production and productivity of tamarind in the country are estimated at 43.63 hectares, 158.50 million tonnes and 3634 kg/hectare, respectively. Similarly, in the Tamil Nadu state it is occupied in 14.50 hectares with the production of 44.66 million tonnes by producing 3080 kg/hectare during 2021-22 (Source: Ministry of Agriculture and Farmers Welfare, Govt. of India-ON2840-http://www.indiastat.com/home). Tamarind pulp and its products\' quality was maintained and their shelf lives were extended by postharvest handling procedures as harvesting, drying, dehulling, deseeding, packaging, and storing. Designing the machinery for processing, storing, transporting, and adding value requires an understanding of the physical and biochemical features of any biomaterial (Shah, 2014). Any fruit\'s biochemical properties and makeup determine how marketable and palatable it is. Keeping the above, the research on “Investigation of physical, engineering and biochemical properties of different ripen tamarind fruit genotypes” was carried out.\r\nMATERIALS AND METHODS\r\nThe study was carried at AICRP (PHET), UAS, GKVK, Bengaluru during the year 2020-2021. For the study, seven different genotypes were collected from AICRP (Agro-forestry), UAS, GKVK, Bengaluru during the harvest season (December-March) and the samples were then taken to AICRP on PHET laboratory. In the laboratory the fruits were selected according to degree of maturation and absence of injuries. Subsequently, the pulp of the fruits were manually processed, packed and stored in zip-lock plastic bags for further laboratory analysis. The chemicals used for analysis in this study were of analytical grade.\r\nPhysical and Engineering properties of tamarind fruit. The following physical and engineering properties of tamarind fruit were determined using standard procedures are as detailed below.\r\nSize. The tri-axial linear dimensions viz., major axis (length), minor axis (breadth) and intermediate axis (thickness) were carried out on 50 randomly chosen ripe tamarind fruits of different genotypes using a digital Vernier caliper (Make: Mitutoyo, China; Model: CD-8 VC) having an accuracy of 0.01 mm. \r\nShape. The shape of the tamarind fruit and seed was also found to be different from various locations. Actually tamarind fruit is irregular shape in nature. The mean values of 50 observations for geometric mean diameter (Dg) and sphericity index (Φ) of tamarind fruits of different genotypes were calculated by using the following relationships (Mohesenin, 1986):\r\nDg = 〖(LxBxT)〗^(1/3) \r\n Φ = Dg/L \r\nWhere,\r\nL = Length of the fruit / seed, mm\r\nW = Width of the fruit / seed, mm\r\nT = Thickness of the fruit / seed, mm\r\nMass. The mass of single tamarind fruit was measured by electronic weighing balance (Make: Adam Equipment co ltd., Miton Keynes, UK: least count 0.001g) and value of each tamarind fruit was recorded for 50 fruits to get average mass of single tamarind fruit. The mass of the whole fruit, pulp, fibre and seeds were obtained by individual direct weighing on electrical weighing balance.\r\nBulk density. Bulk density of tamarind fruit was determined by using a cube box having a volume of 1000 cm3. The samples were filled in a box of standard size and top surface was leveled off. Then the samples were weighed using an electronic weigh balance (Mohesenin, 1986). \r\nThe bulk density was calculated as:\r\n \r\nWhere,\r\n ρb = Bulk density, kg/m3\r\n m = Mass of fruit, kg\r\n vc = Volume of the container , m3\r\nTrue density. The true density is defined as the ratio between the mass of tamarind fruit and true volume of tamarind fruit. It was determined using the toluene displacement method. Toluene was used in the place of water to avoid absorption by the fruits. The volume of toluene displaced was found by immersing a weighed quantity of tamarind in the toluene. \r\n\r\nThe true density was calculated as:\r\n \r\nWhere,\r\n ρt = True density, kg/m3\r\n m = Mass of fruit, kg\r\n vf = Volume of fruit , m3\r\nPorosity. Porosity was calculated as the ratio of the difference between the true and bulk density to the true density value and expressed in percentage. The porosity of the tamarind fruits were computed using the formula given below and expressed in per cent.\r\nThe porosity was calculated as:\r\n \r\nWhere,\r\n = Porosity, per cent\r\nρb = Bulk density, kg/m3\r\nρt = True density, kg/m3\r\nColour. Tristimulus colour measurements of ripe tamarind genotypes fruit and its pulp were made using Spectrophotometer (Make: Konica Minolta Instruments, Osaka, Japan; Model - CM5). It is a light weight, compact Tristimulus colour analyzer for measuring reflected-light colour. It combines advanced electronic and optical technology to provide high accuracy and complete portability. Using an 8 mm diameter (measuring area) diffused illumination and 0º viewing angle, the instrument takes accurate colour measurements instantaneously and the readings are displayed. The colour of the samples were measured in CIELAB (L*, a*, b*) coordinate system, where L* value indicates lightness of the sample; a* value indicates greenness (-) or redness (+) of the sample; and b* value indicates blueness (-) or yellowness (+) of the sample. Three readings were taken for each sample and the mean values were reported.\r\nBio chemical properties of tamarind fruit. The proximate analysis was done by adopting standard procedures. Tamarind pulp sample was extracted under optimum conditions during the study. All the analysis was done in triplicates and the mean values were recorded.\r\nTotal Soluble Solids. Total soluble solids (TSS) of tamarind pulp was recorded by using an ERMA Hand Refractometer (0-32 °Brix) and the results were expressed in °Brix. 10 g of tamarind pulp was mashed with 20 ml of distilled water to make into juice. Before measurement, the accuracy of Refractometer was checked by using distilled water and calibrated. After proper cleaning with a tissue paper, few drops of extracted juice was placed on the prism and the readings recorded were expressed in °Brix. \r\npH. For determining pH of fruits and vegetables and their products a buffer of pH 4 would be sufficient. Standardized the pH meter using this buffer and checked the pH of the tamarind pulp. \r\nTitrable Acidity. It is necessary to determine titrable acidity of a given food sample to ensure the presence of acid in terms of predominant acid present in it. The predominant acid present in the tamarind is the tartaric acid and the acid content was determined as per Bates (1994). Ten grams of homogenized sample was taken and made up to 100 ml volume in a volumetric flask. The contents were than filtered through Whatman no.1 filter paper; an aliquot of 10 ml was taken for titration against 0.1 N NaOH using phenolphthalein indicator and light pink colour as end point, to estimate titrable acidity in terms of tartaric acid. \r\nFactor for acidity: One ml. of N/10 NaOH = 0.0075g of tartaric acid.\r\nThe titrable acid content was calculated as:\r\nTitrable acidity (%tartaric acid) =\r\n \r\nAscorbic acid. Tartaric Acid content of the sample was estimated by using Bates (1994). Tartaric acid content of the sample was expressed as mg/100g. 10g of the pulp sample was blended with reasonable amount of 0.4% oxalic acid and then filtered by Whatman No.1 filter paper. The volume of the filtrate was completed to 250 ml with 0.4% oxalic acid. 20 ml of the filtrate was pipettes into a beaker and then titrated with dye solution (0.2g 2.6-dicholorophenol- indo phenol dissolve in 500ml solution) to a faint pink color. \r\nThe ascorbic acid content was calculated as: \r\nAscorbic acid (mg/100g) =\r\n \r\nFactor = \r\nThe dye strength was determined by taking 5ml of standard ascorbic acid (0.05g ascorbic acid / 250 ml 10 % oxalic acid solution) in a beaker and titrate with dye solution to faint pink color. \r\nReducing sugars. The reducing sugars were determined by the method of Bates (1994). 10 grams of sample was taken in 250 ml volumetric flask. To this, 100 ml of distilled water was added and the contents were neutralized by 1 N sodium hydroxide solution using 1-2 drops of phenolphthalein indicator. Then two ml of 45 per cent lead acetate was added to it. The contents were mixed well and kept for 10 minutes. Two ml of 22 per cent potassium oxalate was added to it to precipitate the excess of lead. The volume was made to 250 ml with distilled water and solution was filtered through Whatman No. 4 filter paper. This filtrate was used for determination of reducing sugars by titrating it against the boiling mixture of Fehling ‘A’ and Fehling ‘B’ solutions (5 ml each) using methylene blue as indicator and formation of brick red precipitate as an end point. Keeping the Fehling’s solution boiling on the heating mantle carried out the titration. The results were expressed on per cent basis. \r\nTotal sugars. For inversion at room temperature, a 50 ml aliquot of clarified deleaded solution was transferred to 250 ml volumetric flask, to which, 10 ml HCl was added and then allowed to stand at room temperature for 24 hrs. It was then neutralized with 0.1 N sodium hydroxide solution using 1-2 drops of phenolphthalein indicator. The volume of neutralized aliquot was made to 250 ml with distilled water. This aliquot was used for determination of total sugars by titrating it against the boiling mixture of Fehling ‘A’ and Fehling ‘B’ (5 ml each) using methylene blue as indicator to a brick red end point. The volume was made up to the mark and determined the total sugar as invert sugars. The results were expressed on per cent basis.\r\nStatistical analysis. Statistical analysis of experimental data was done using OPSTAT Software. The data of different experiments conducted were analyzed as per the design (CRD) to determine the significant differences among treatments.\r\nRESULTS AND DISCUSSION\r\nThe results obtained from the present investigation are tabulated; statistically analyzed and relevant discussions have been summarized with the following headings:\r\nStudy of Physical, Engineering and Bio-Chemical Properties of Tamarind Fruit and Pulp\r\nPhysical properties of tamarind fruit genotypes. In the present study fruit characters such as length (mm), breadth (mm), thickness (mm), weight of single fruit (g) and number of seeds per fruit of seven different tamarind genotypes (Plate 1) were studied and the results are presented in Table 1. \r\nDevelopment of high-yielding crop varieties necessitates knowledge of the kind and extent of variability existing in the genotypes available, which depends on the wise evaluation of the data on phenotypic traits associated with yield that are now accessible (Rajamanickam, 2019). Similarly, for design and development of any processing machine; the length, width and thickness of tamarind fruits are important. Length is highly influenced by nutrition available for the plant and management practices that also influence directly the length of the pod and thickness of pods might be due to inherent genetic variations among the genotypes.\r\nWith respect to length of tamarind fruit, the studied genotypes did not differ significantly however, numerically higher fruit length was observed in DTS-2 (115.70 mm) followed by NFN-7 (110 mm) and SMG-14 (105.52 mm). The least length of tamarind fruit is observed in NFN-6 (89.86 mm). Physical parameters (breadth and thickness) of tamarind fruits of different genotypes statistically differed significantly. Significantly higher tamarind fruit breadth was recorded by DTS-2 (30.23 mm) over other genotypes whereas; significantly least tamarind fruit breadth was recorded in SMG-14 (18.30 mm). Significantly higher fruit thickness of 18.64 mm was recorded by NFN-7 and it was on par with DTS-2 (18.16 mm). Whereas, significantly least fruit thickness was observed by SMG-14 (12.18 mm). Similar trend was observed for tamarind pulp (Table 1). The differences in the length of pod and width of pod may be attributed to the difference in genetic makeup of the different tamarind genotypes. The similar variation in pod length in tamarind genotypes was reported by Tadas et al. (2015). High heritability accompanied by medium to low genetic advance for pod width, pod thickness and pulp per cent is indicative of non-additive gene action and the high heritability is being exhibited due to favorable influence of environment rather than genotype (Divakara, 2008). Nandini et al. (2011) reported that longest fruit length was in the range of 6.65 cm to 20.04 cm and the pod width in the range of 2.30 cm to 4.84 cm among the 100 tamarind genotypes were evaluated at Karnataka. Dehdivan & Panahi (2017) opined that there were differences in physical properties among the date seeds.\r\nSignificantly higher number of seeds per tamarind fruits recorded in SMG-14 (7.65) and NFN-7 (7.24) followed by red tamarind (6.36). The seed number per fruit seems to be the varietal character in the tamarind genotypes. The difference in seed weight may be attributed to the differences in the number and size of seeds among the different tamarind genotypes. This is highly influenced by nutrition available for the plant and the management practices that also influence directly the length of the pod. Hanamashetti (1996) opined that the difference in seed number may be attributed to the difference in length of pod and ovule fertility. The similar results corroborated with the results obtained by Hanamashetti and Sulkeri (1997); Divakara (2008) in tamarind genotypes.\r\nEngineering and gravimetric properties of tamarind genotypes. The engineering properties like shape (geometric mean diameter and sphericity index) and gravimetric properties namely bulk density, true density and porosity for tamarind genotypes (Plate 1) were studied and the results are presented in Table 2. The average mean maximum values of geometric mean diameter, sphericity index, bulk density, true density and porosity of tamarind genotypes were found to be 66.17–24.57 mm, 0.55-0.23, 362-263.67 kg/m3, 693.89-491.36 kg/m3 and 63.90-26.31 percent, respectively. The shape is inherited and also affected by the environment. The shape of the fruits observed as curved, semi curved and straight fruit shapes but Fandohan et al., (2010) reported curved and the straight pod shapes. The shapes are affected by the seed number and seed shapes which are influenced by its genetics. Idhayavarman (2019) noted slightly similar average values for bulk density, true density and porosity of tamarind fruit and velvet tamarind fruits.\r\nComposition of tamarind fruit genotypes. The significant variations for fruit characters and quality parameters were observed among the seven tamarind genotypes which are presented in Table 3. The finding revealed that shell weight was ranged from 528 g to 302 g significantly higher shell weight was recorded in SMG-14 genotypes (528 g) over all other genotypes. Whereas, the least shell weight was found in NFN-7 (302 g). The variation in shell weight per fruit of different tamarind genotypes may be attributed to the difference in size of the fruit. Similar variation in shell weight was also observed by Mastan et al. (1997). Tamarind fruit (pod) weight is directly correlated with pulp weight and seed number. \r\nThe fibre weight ranged from 51.96 g to 8.36 g significantly higher fibre weight was recorded in NFN-7 genotype of 51.96 g and the lowest weight was found in PKM-1 (8.36 g). The pulp weight ranged from 413.01 g to 216.53 g. The differences in vein weight per pod among the different genotypes of tamarind may be due to the differences in the rate of development of vascular tissue in fruits (Hanamashetti and Sulikeri 1997)). \r\nThe highest pulp weight was recorded in NFN-7 (413.01 g) followed by red tamarind (388.41 g). The lowest pulp weight was observed in SMG-14 (216.53 g). Present investigation follows results of Challapilli et al. (1995), where the fruit weight is positively and significantly associated with pulp, fibre, seed weight, fruit length and breadth. Nandini et al. (2011) also reported that pulp weight was in the range from 6.99 g to 0.99 g for 100 tamarind genotypes. Tamarind pulp weight is factor of management practices given to the tree. \r\nWeight of seeds per fruit ranged from 276 g to 134.53 g. The difference in shell weight can be clearly attributed to the difference in size of the fruit. The difference in the pod length, pod width, pod thickness and pod circumference may be attributed to genetic difference among the genotypes (Divakara (2008); Fandohan et al. (2011)). The difference in fibre weight may be due to the differences in the rate of development of vascular tissue in fruits (Hanamashetti and Sulikeri 1997). The difference in seed weight may be attributed to the difference in the number and size of seeds. \r\nColour. In Table 4, Tristimulus colour values, represented in terms of L*, a*, b* for the tamarind fruit and its pulp. The average colour values (L*, a*, b*) for ripe tamarind fruit and its pulp of seven different tamarind genotypes was ranged from 44.88-36.43 of L*; 8.81-6.57 of a*; 14.07-10.59 of b* and 37.64-25.21 of L*; 10.18-6.50 of a*; 13.52-3.71 of b* for tamarind fruit and pulp, respectively. Tamarind pulp color varied from light brownish red to dark brown. Obulesu and Bhattacharya (2011) reported slightly similar colour values for ripe tamarind pulp. Fandohan et al. (2011) reported reddish brown and brown colors, which slightly varies from the findings. Variations in tamarind fruit color are highly influenced by the age of the fruit and environmental changes. The pulp color is highly influenced by genetic make-up of the plant. According to Obulesu and Bhattacharya (2011) colour change in tamarind pulp increased sharply after maturation due to non-enzymatic browning. \r\nBio-chemical properties of tamarind genotypes. The genotypes differed significantly with respect to total soluble solids, pH, titrable acidity, ascorbic acid, and sugars content (Table 5). Significantly higher total soluble solid was recorded in SMG-14 (18.17 °Brix) and the least was recorded in NFN-6 (13.37 °Brix). This difference in total soluble solids content is due to the difference in sugar content of the pulp. The differences in TSS content of tamarind pulp may be due to difference in sugar content of tamarind fruits of different genotypes. Tamarind growing in arid region with limited water tends to more accumulation of dry matter and lower moisture may be results in higher TSS in tamarind fruits.\r\nThe maximum titrable acidity content was recorded in NFN-7 (17.35 %) while the minimum was recorded in SMG-14 (5.9 %). This variation in acidity content is due to the difference in sugar content of the pulp and also inherent genetic makeup of each genotype. The differences in percent tartaric acid content of different tamarind genotypes may be due to different tamarind genotypes and varied from season to season (Hanamashetti (1996); Hanamashetti and Sulikeri (1997); Mastan et al. (1997)). The similar results are also found by Prabhushankar et al. (2004) in PKM-1 tamarind. The tamarind fruit has been defined as bitter sweet fruit due to its high content of tartaric acids and reducing sugars combined and also said to be the acidest and sweetest fruit (Rajmanikam, 2019).\r\nThe maximum ascorbic acid content of pulp was recorded in NFN-7 (5.7 mg/100 g) and the minimum was recorded in SMG-14 (3.17 mg/100 g). The variation in the ascorbic acid content of pulp is due to the perpetual synthesis of glucose-6-phosphate throughout the growth and development of fruits which is thought to be the precursor of vitamin - C (ascorbic acid) and also depends on the genotypic differences. \r\nThe highest pH of the pulp was recorded in red tamarind (2.37) and the lowest pH was recorded in sweet tamarind (2.06). The difference in pH concentrate is attributed to the difference in acid to sugar ratio of the pulp and also a distinct feature of the different genotypes. Similar results were documented by Adeola and Aworh (2012). \r\nThe elevated reducing sugar content of the pulp was recorded in NFN-7 (17.55 %) while, the lowest was recorded in SMG-14 (16.77 %). The maximum total sugar content of the pulp was recorded in PKM-1 (13.71 %) while the least was recorded in NFN-7 (8.06 %). The sugar content of tamarind is due to fruit ripening, which is associated with major metabolic changes in the fruit, where complex polysaccharides are converted to monosaccharides. Fluctuations in sugar content are due to differences in the acidity of the pulp and differ within and between genotypes. The similar outcome with respect to the sugar content of tamarind genotypes were revealed by Prabhushankar et al. (2004); Adeola and Aworh (2012). \r\n','Sreedevi M.S., Rajkumar P., Palanimuthu V., Hanumanthappa D.C., Surendrakumar A., Ganapathy S., and Geethalakshmi I. (2022). Investigation of Physical, Engineering and Bio-chemical Traits of Tamarind Genotypes. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 14(3): 253-260.'),(5263,'136','Effect of Foliar Application of nano Ca on qualitative Parameters of Tomato (Solanum lycopersicum L.)','D. Rajani, M. Padma*, M. Raj Kumar, A. Kiran, M. Vijaya and G. Padmaja','45 Effect of Foliar Application of nano Ca on qualitative Parameters of Tomato (Solanum lycopersicum L.) D. Rajani.pdf','',1,'Indiscriminate application of these nutrients to the soil over years will lead to accumulation in soil, to the level toxic to plants. Therefore, an efficient mechanism is very essential to reduce the amount of nutrient (soil / foliar) application, without compromising the plant growth and yield is very essential. Hence, in recent years, the application of nanoscale particles is being preferred to enhance the agronomic effectiveness of nutrients in plants. In view of this, an experiment was conducted during kharif, 2020 to know the effect of foliar application of nano CaO on qualitative parameters of tomato. The experiment was laid out in a Completely Randomized Design (CRD) with thirteen treatments comprising different concentrations of nano CaO (100, 200, 300, 400, 500, 600, 700, 800, 900, 1000 and 1500 ppm), CaNO3, and control. Each treatment was replicated thrice. The foliar application of nano CaO was done at 30 and 45 DAT. Nano CaO 600 ppm recorded minimum values for TSS (3.90 0Brix), pH (4.38), total sugars (2.40 %), reducing sugars (2.15 %), lycopene content (5.80 mg 100g-1) and maximum values for ascorbic acid (25.40 mg 100g-1) and titrable acidity (0.52%).','Nano CaO, TSS, pH, total sugars, reducing sugars, lycopene content, ascorbic acid and titrable acidity ','Foliar spraying of nano CaO significantly influenced the TSS, pH, total sugars, reducing sugars, lycopene content ascorbic acid and titrable acidity of tomato. Nano CaO 600 ppm recorded minimum values for TSS, pH, total sugars, reducing sugars, lycopene content and maximum values for ascorbic acid and titrable acidity.','INTRODUCTION\r\nTomato (Solanum lycopersicum L.) is the main vegetable crop extensively grown all over the globe. In India, tomato occupies an area of 0.56 million hectares with a production of 16.13 million tonnes (NHB Database, 2020-21). In Telangana, tomato is cultivated in an area of 0.025 million hectares with a production of 0.88 million tonnes (NHB Database, 2020-21). \r\nTomato requires both major and micronutrients for its proper plant growth (Sainju et al., 2003). Calcium is an important secondary macronutrient, which may be deficient in plants either due to low calcium in the soil or low calcium availability due to high soil pH or low mobility in the plants (Kadir, 2004; Peter, 2005). Therefore, the endless offer of Ca is needed for leaf development, plant canopy, and vigorous root growth. Calcium plays a variety of structural roles in cells and also functions as a second messenger in plant growth, development and adoption to the environment (Del-Amor and Marcelis, 2006). \r\nHowever, indiscriminate application of these nutrients to the soil over years will lead to accumulation in soil, to the level toxic to plants. Therefore, an efficient mechanism is very essential to reduce the amount of nutrient (soil / foliar) application, without compromising the plant growth and yield is very essential. Hence, in recent years, the application of nanoscale particles is being preferred to enhance the agronomic effectiveness of nutrients in plants. Nanotechnology is receiving attention from a diverse field of Science and Technology as it involves the synthesis and application of materials having size dimensions in the nanoscale (1-100 nm) (Khan et al., 2019). Nanoparticles are expected to exhibit higher reactivity because of their larger surface areas to volume ratio (Liu, 2006). The nano molecules applications in Agriculture are at their infancy. Nano fertilizers are a new generation of synthetic fertilizers that contain readily available nutrients on the nanoscale. Nano fertilizers are preferred largely due to their efficiency and environmentally friendly nature compared to conventional chemical fertilizers. The use of nano fertilizers is expected to maintain better soil fertility and provide greater crop yields. Nano fertilizers can be easily absorbed by crops and may exhibit a prolonged effective duration of nutrient supply in soil/crop compared to conventional fertilizers. The actual movement of nanoparticles through the cuticle depends on the nutrient concentration. In view of the above, an attempt is being made to study the efficacy of foliar application of nano nutrients in tomato entitled “Effect of foliar application of nano CaO on qualitative parameters of tomato (Solanum lycopersicum L.)”.\r\nMATERIAL AND METHODS \r\nThe present investigation was carried out during kharif, 2020; at Agricultural College, Palem, Professor Jayashankar Telangana State Agricultural University. The nano particulates of Calcium were prepared in a nanotechnology laboratory at the Institute of Frontier Technology, Regional Agricultural Research Station, Tirupati. High-Resolution Transmission Electron Microscopy (HR-TEM) image analysis was carried out at the Indian Institute of Technology, Roorkee. The experiment was laid out in a Completely Randomized Design (CRD) with thirteen treatments comprising different concentrations of nano CaO, CaNO3 and control and each treatment was replicated thrice. The foliar application of nano CaO was done at 30 and 45 DAT. The treatment details are as follows\r\nT1: Foliar spraying with CaNO3 @ 2 g L-1 (2000 ppm) \r\nT2: Foliar spraying with nano CaO 100 ppm (0.1 g L-1) \r\nT3: Foliar spraying with nano CaO 200 ppm (0.2 g L-1) \r\nT4: Foliar spraying with nano CaO 300 ppm (0.3 g L-1) \r\nT5: Foliar spraying with nano CaO 400 ppm (0.4 g L-1) \r\nT6: Foliar spraying with nano CaO 500 ppm (0.5 g L-1) \r\nT7: Foliar spraying with nano CaO 600 ppm (0.6 g L-1) \r\nT8: Foliar spraying with nano CaO 700 ppm (0.7 g L-1) \r\nT9: Foliar spraying with nano CaO 800 ppm (0.8 g L-1) \r\nT10: Foliar spraying with nano CaO 900 ppm (0.9 g L-1) \r\nT11: Foliar spraying with nano CaO 1000 ppm (1.0 g L-1) \r\nT12: Foliar spraying with nano CaO 1500 ppm (1.5 g L-1) \r\nT13: Control (Without Calcium application)\r\nTotal Soluble Solids (oBrix): The total soluble solids of the fruits were determined with the help of an Erma hand refractometer and expressed as oBrix (Ranganna, 1986). \r\npH : pH is the measurement of the logarithm of inverse ions in the solution. \r\npH = -log(H+) \r\n Where, H+= hydrogen ion concentration (g lit-1) \r\nThe pH values were determined with the help of an electronic pH meter. The electronic pH meter was calibrated using 4 pH, 7 pH and 9 pH standard buffer solutions. \r\nAscorbic acid content (mg 100g-1): Ascorbic acid was estimated by the method outlined by Ranganna, (1986). \r\nAscorbic acid (mg 100g-1) = \r\n \r\n \r\nTitrable acidity (%): Estimation of titratable acidity was carried out by using the method given by Ranganna (1986). \r\nTitrable acidity (%) = \r\n \r\nTotal Sugars (%): Total sugars were estimated by the method outlined by Ranganna, (1986).\r\nTotal sugars (%) = \r\n \r\nReducing Sugars (%): The reducing sugars was determined by Lane and Eyon method described by Ranganna, 1986. \r\nReducing sugars (%) = \r\nNon-reducing sugars (%): The non-reducing sugar content in tomato was determined by subtracting the total sugars from the reducing sugars. \r\nNon reducing sugars (%) = Total sugars (%) - Reducing sugars (%) \r\nLycopene content (mg 100g-1): Milligrams of lycopene per 100gm sample, using the formula given by R.P. Srivastava and Kumar (2002) \r\nO.D. of 1.0 = 3.1206 μg of lycopene / ml \r\nLycopene (mg 100g-1) = \r\n \r\nRESULTS AND DISCUSSION\r\nTotal soluble solids (oBrix): It is evident from the data that (Table 1 and Fig. 1), among the treatments, nano CaO 600 ppm was recorded lowest TSS (3.90 oBrix), which was statistically on par with nano CaO 500 ppm (4.00 oBrix), while significantly highest TSS has recorded in nano CaO 1500 ppm (5.40 oBrix). The significant effect of nano CaO in maintaining low TSS might be due to the binding of calcium with pectin contents in the cell wall by forming the salt bridge between Ca+2 and COO group (Stanly et al., 1995). Due to this, calcium pectate is formed which helps in reducing the degradation of the cell wall and ultimately reduces the ethylene production resulting in maintaining low TSS by slowing down the ripening process. The present investigation confirmed with reports of Rab and Haq (2012) in tomato, Amini et al. (2016) in sweet pepper and Haleema et al. (2020) in tomato.\r\npH: All treatments had a significant influence on pH (Table 1 and Fig. 1). Among all the treatments, nano CaO 600 ppm recorded the lowest pH (4.38) and it was on par with nano CaO 500 ppm (4.41) and nano CaO 400 ppm (4.43), while it was significantly highest in nano CaO 1500 ppm (4.64). The lowest pH was reported in nano CaO treated plants at optimum concentrations. Fruits containing less pH indicate the presence of more citric acid, which is more suitable for processing and improves shelf life (Hernandez-Perez et al., 2005). Similar results were also reported by Amini et al. (2016) in sweet pepper.\r\nAscorbic acid (mg 100g-1): Maximum ascorbic acid was registered in nano CaO 600 ppm (25.40 mg 100 g-1) which was on par with nano CaO 500 ppm (24.98 mg 100g-1) and T5 (nano CaO 400 ppm) (24.08 mg 100g-1), while significantly minimum ascorbic acid was recorded with nano CaO 1500 ppm (20.30 mg 100g-1). \r\nAscorbic acid was recorded with a lower concentration of nano CaO such as, nano CaO 100 ppm (23.40 mg 100g-1), nano CaO 200 ppm (22.50 mg 100g-1) and nano CaO 300 ppm (22.50 mg 100g-1) were on par with each other. When nano CaO concentrations exceeded 600 ppm, the ascorbic acid content decreased. It was also noted that nano CaO 1000 ppm and nano CaO 1500 ppm had lesser ascorbic acid than CaNO3 @ 2 g L-1 (23.92 mg 100g-1) and control (21.40 mg 100g-1). This could be linked to the phytotoxicity effect of elements at higher concentrations (Table 1 and Fig. 1). Nano CaO delayed metabolic activities like respiration rate and ethylene production due to which higher ascorbic acid was noticed in nano CaO treated plants compared to control. These results were in accordance with the findings of Zakaria et al. (2018) in strawberries and Haleema et al. (2020) in tomato.\r\nTitrable acidity (%): The results indicated that foliar spraying of nano CaO and CaNO3 with varied doses recorded a significant influence on the percentage of titrable acidity (Table 1 and Fig. 1). Among the treatments, nano CaO 600 ppm recorded the highest percentage of titrable acidity (0.52 %), which was on par with nano CaO 500 ppm (0.50 %), while it was significantly lowest in nano CaO 1000 ppm and nano CaO 1500 ppm (0.34 %). A higher percentage of titrable acidity was reported in nano CaO treated plants as it delayed fruit ripening and reduced respiration rate, which ultimately reduce organic acid hydrolysis, i.e. metabolic conversion of organic acid into carbon dioxide and water (Mosa et al. 2015). Similar results were in accordance with the finding of Ibrahim (2005) in apricot, Ramana-Rao et al. (2011) in sweet pepper, Ranjbar et al. (2019) in apple, and Haleema et al. (2020) in tomato.\r\nTotal sugars (%): The data (Table 2 and Fig. 2) enunciated on total sugars as influenced by the foliar spraying of nano CaO and CaNO3 revealed that, nano CaO 600 ppm recorded minimum total sugars (2.40 %), which was on par with nano CaO 500 ppm (2.49 %), while it was significantly maximum in nano CaO 1500 ppm (3.47 %). The lower concentration of nano CaO, such as nano CaO 100 ppm, nano CaO 300 ppm and nano CaO 200 ppm recorded total sugars @ 3.12 %, 2.99 % and 2.98 % respectively. These are on par with each other. Total sugars increased when the concentration of nano CaO increased beyond 600 ppm. It was also noted that nano CaO 1000 ppm and nano CaO 1500 ppm recorded more total sugars compared to CaNO3 @ 2 g L-1 (2.90 %) and control (3.30 %). This could be associated with the phytotoxicity effect of this element observed at higher concentrations. \r\nReducing sugars (%): Foliar application of CaO and CaNO3 recorded a significant influence on reducing sugars (Table 2 and Fig. 2). Among all the treatments, nano CaO 600 ppm recorded the lowest reducing sugars (2.15 %) and it was on par with nano CaO 500 ppm (2.29 %), while it was significantly highest (3.41 %) in nano CaO 1500 ppm. The lower total sugars and reducing sugars were reported in nano CaO treatments where calcium reduces the activity of enzymes responsible for the hydrolysis of polysaccharides to monosaccharides (Agar et al. 1999), delaying ripening, decreasing respiration and metabolic activities (Rohani et al. 1997). Generally, sugars increase with ripening might be due to the metabolic breakdown of polysaccharides into water-soluble sugars and organic acids into carbon dioxide. These results were in accordance with the finding of Rajkumar and Mitali (2009) in water apple fruits, Sood et al. (2014) in tomato, Zakaria et al. (2018) in strawberries, Haleema et al. (2020) in tomato. \r\nNon-reducing sugars (%): nano CaO 600 ppm significantly recorded the highest non-reducing sugars (0.25 %) followed by nano CaO 500 ppm (0.23 %) and nano CaO 400 ppm (0.23 %), while it was significantly lowest (0.06 %) in nano CaO 1000 ppm (Table 2 and Fig. 2). \r\nLycopene content (mg 100g-1): The observations from Table 2 confirm that, nano CaO 600 ppm recorded the lowest value of lycopene content (5.80 mg 100g-1), which was on par with nano CaO 500 ppm (5.86 mg 100g-1), nano CaO 400 ppm (5.92 mg 100g-1) and nano CaO 700 ppm (5.95 mg 100g-1), while it was significantly highest in nano CaO 1000 ppm (7.10 mg 100g-1) which was on par with nano CaO 1000 ppm (6.95 mg 100g-1), and control (6.86 mg 100g-1). An increasing trend in lycopene content was observed when the concentration of nano CaO increased beyond 600 ppm. It was also noted that nano CaO 1000 ppm and nano CaO 1500 ppm recorded more lycopene content compared to CaNO3 @ 2 g L-1 (6.22 mg 100g-1). This could be associated with the phytotoxicity effect of this element observed at higher concentrations. The lowest lycopene content was reported in nano CaO 600 ppm. The reason for failure in skin colour development is the effect of nano CaO on the ethylene generating cycle, which affected lycopene pigment synthesis during the ripening process (Njoroge et al., 1998). These results were in accordance with the finding of Sood et al. (2014) on tomato.\r\n','D. Rajani, M. Padma, M. Raj Kumar, A. Kiran, M. Vijaya and G. Padmaja (2022). Effect of Foliar Application of nano Ca on qualitative Parameters of Tomato (Solanum lycopersicum L.). Biological Forum – An International Journal, 14(3): 261-266.'),(5264,'136','Investigation of Physical, Engineering and Bio-chemical Traits of Tamarind Genotypes','Sreedevi M.S.*, Rajkumar P., Palanimuthu V., Hanumanthappa D.C., Surendrakumar A., Ganapathy S. and Geethalakshmi I.','44 Investigation of Physical, Engineering and Bio-chemical Traits of Tamarind Genotypes Sreedevi.pdf','',4,'Tamarind, a multipurpose, long-lived hardwood tree, popular spice condiment and utilized for its fruits. Because of wide diversity in fruits for varied traits, investigating selected genotypes for different aspects like yield, physical, engineering and biochemical parameters is important. Therefore, the present study was undertaken at the AICRP on Post-Harvest Engineering and Technology (PHET), University of Agricultural Sciences (UAS), Gandhi Krishi Vignana Kendra (GKVK), Bengaluru during the year 2020-2021 to identify the tamarind genotypes for higher yield and quality as well as to know the amount of diversity exist in tamarind crop. An experiment was emphasized mainly on the physical, engineering and bio-chemical characteristics of seven different tamarind genotypes. The results showed that there was wide variation was observed in size, shape, geometric mean diameter, sphericity index, bulk density, true density, porosity, composition of fruit, bio-chemical properties and colour. Among the seven genotypes studied, the genotype NFN-7 was found superior over others for almost all the traits. Hence, genotype NFN-7 is most promising and having immense potential for commercial cultivation and which can also be used for further studies for pulp improvement.','Tamarind, Genotypes, Physical characters, Engineering characters, Bio-chemical characters','It can be inferred as natural wealth of tamarind fruit as wider diversity traits. Which offer more scope for future improvement in tamarind through the selection of elite genotypes, more importantly for the higher fruit and pulp content. From the current investigation results, we noticed that there is wide variation for many characters even within seven genotypes. The genotype NFN-7 was found superior for fruit characters and quality over all other genotypes. Therefore, the genotype NFN-7 found to be most promising and can be utilized for further evaluation as well as for commercial cultivation. ','INTRODUCTION\r\nTamarind is a multipurpose, long-lived hardwood tree utilized for its fruits, which are eaten raw or processed. In the eighteenth century, Linnaeus named it as Tamarindus indica, inspired by the Arabic name Tamar-i-hind, means date of India (EI-Siddig et al., 2006). Tamarind is a popular spice condiment that can be found in every South Asian kitchen. It has a sweet and tart flavour. The nutritive chemical compounds present in tamarind pulp and date (khajur) reveal that energy, fat and carbohydrates are more in date, while the contents of protein, minerals, calcium, carotene and essential amino acids are more in tamarind pulp. Thus, the Arabians rightly named the tamarind tree as ‘Date-palm from India’ and the tamarind fruit as ‘Indian date’ (Shah, 2014). The tamarind tree is a very huge tree with long, thick limbs that droop and dense foliage. The height of a fully developed tree could be up to 80 feet. The tree produces fruit pods in profusion throughout each season, covering all of its branches. Each pod has a tough outer shell that surrounds a soft, dark-brown pulp that contains two to ten dark-brown seeds. Tamarind pulp and seeds are connected by a strong fibre network. On an average, a tamarind pod is composed of shell (15-25%), pulp (45-55%), seeds (25-35%), fiber (10-15%). The edible portion of dried tamarind contains moisture (15-30%), protein (2.0-8.79%), tartaric acid (8.0-18.0%), carbohydrates (56.70-70.70%), fibre (2.20-18-30%), reducing sugar (25.0-45.0%), and protein (2.0-4.0%) (Shankaracharya, 1998). The most outstanding characteristic of tamarind is its most acidic nature with total acidity range varying from 12.2 to 23.8% of tartaric acid. When fruits are ripe, the pulp is rust-colored and contains 38% moisture (Deokar et al., 2019). \r\nThe area, production and productivity of tamarind in the country are estimated at 43.63 hectares, 158.50 million tonnes and 3634 kg/hectare, respectively. Similarly, in the Tamil Nadu state it is occupied in 14.50 hectares with the production of 44.66 million tonnes by producing 3080 kg/hectare during 2021-22 (Source: Ministry of Agriculture and Farmers Welfare, Govt. of India-ON2840-http://www.indiastat.com/home). Tamarind pulp and its products\' quality was maintained and their shelf lives were extended by postharvest handling procedures as harvesting, drying, dehulling, deseeding, packaging, and storing. Designing the machinery for processing, storing, transporting, and adding value requires an understanding of the physical and biochemical features of any biomaterial (Shah, 2014). Any fruit\'s biochemical properties and makeup determine how marketable and palatable it is. Keeping the above, the research on “Investigation of physical, engineering and biochemical properties of different ripen tamarind fruit genotypes” was carried out.\r\nMATERIALS AND METHODS\r\nThe study was carried at AICRP (PHET), UAS, GKVK, Bengaluru during the year 2020-2021. For the study, seven different genotypes were collected from AICRP (Agro-forestry), UAS, GKVK, Bengaluru during the harvest season (December-March) and the samples were then taken to AICRP on PHET laboratory. In the laboratory the fruits were selected according to degree of maturation and absence of injuries. Subsequently, the pulp of the fruits were manually processed, packed and stored in zip-lock plastic bags for further laboratory analysis. The chemicals used for analysis in this study were of analytical grade.\r\nPhysical and Engineering properties of tamarind fruit. The following physical and engineering properties of tamarind fruit were determined using standard procedures are as detailed below.\r\nSize. The tri-axial linear dimensions viz., major axis (length), minor axis (breadth) and intermediate axis (thickness) were carried out on 50 randomly chosen ripe tamarind fruits of different genotypes using a digital Vernier caliper (Make: Mitutoyo, China; Model: CD-8 VC) having an accuracy of 0.01 mm. \r\nShape. The shape of the tamarind fruit and seed was also found to be different from various locations. Actually tamarind fruit is irregular shape in nature. The mean values of 50 observations for geometric mean diameter (Dg) and sphericity index (Φ) of tamarind fruits of different genotypes were calculated by using the following relationships (Mohesenin, 1986):\r\nDg = 〖(LxBxT)〗^(1/3) \r\n Φ = Dg/L \r\nWhere,\r\nL = Length of the fruit / seed, mm\r\nW = Width of the fruit / seed, mm\r\nT = Thickness of the fruit / seed, mm\r\nMass. The mass of single tamarind fruit was measured by electronic weighing balance (Make: Adam Equipment co ltd., Miton Keynes, UK: least count 0.001g) and value of each tamarind fruit was recorded for 50 fruits to get average mass of single tamarind fruit. The mass of the whole fruit, pulp, fibre and seeds were obtained by individual direct weighing on electrical weighing balance.\r\nBulk density. Bulk density of tamarind fruit was determined by using a cube box having a volume of 1000 cm3. The samples were filled in a box of standard size and top surface was leveled off. Then the samples were weighed using an electronic weigh balance (Mohesenin, 1986). \r\nThe bulk density was calculated as:\r\n \r\nWhere,\r\n ρb = Bulk density, kg/m3\r\n m = Mass of fruit, kg\r\n vc = Volume of the container , m3\r\nTrue density. The true density is defined as the ratio between the mass of tamarind fruit and true volume of tamarind fruit. It was determined using the toluene displacement method. Toluene was used in the place of water to avoid absorption by the fruits. The volume of toluene displaced was found by immersing a weighed quantity of tamarind in the toluene. \r\n\r\nThe true density was calculated as:\r\n \r\nWhere,\r\n ρt = True density, kg/m3\r\n m = Mass of fruit, kg\r\n vf = Volume of fruit , m3\r\nPorosity. Porosity was calculated as the ratio of the difference between the true and bulk density to the true density value and expressed in percentage. The porosity of the tamarind fruits were computed using the formula given below and expressed in per cent.\r\nThe porosity was calculated as:\r\n \r\nWhere,\r\n = Porosity, per cent\r\nρb = Bulk density, kg/m3\r\nρt = True density, kg/m3\r\nColour. Tristimulus colour measurements of ripe tamarind genotypes fruit and its pulp were made using Spectrophotometer (Make: Konica Minolta Instruments, Osaka, Japan; Model - CM5). It is a light weight, compact Tristimulus colour analyzer for measuring reflected-light colour. It combines advanced electronic and optical technology to provide high accuracy and complete portability. Using an 8 mm diameter (measuring area) diffused illumination and 0º viewing angle, the instrument takes accurate colour measurements instantaneously and the readings are displayed. The colour of the samples were measured in CIELAB (L*, a*, b*) coordinate system, where L* value indicates lightness of the sample; a* value indicates greenness (-) or redness (+) of the sample; and b* value indicates blueness (-) or yellowness (+) of the sample. Three readings were taken for each sample and the mean values were reported.\r\nBio chemical properties of tamarind fruit. The proximate analysis was done by adopting standard procedures. Tamarind pulp sample was extracted under optimum conditions during the study. All the analysis was done in triplicates and the mean values were recorded.\r\nTotal Soluble Solids. Total soluble solids (TSS) of tamarind pulp was recorded by using an ERMA Hand Refractometer (0-32 °Brix) and the results were expressed in °Brix. 10 g of tamarind pulp was mashed with 20 ml of distilled water to make into juice. Before measurement, the accuracy of Refractometer was checked by using distilled water and calibrated. After proper cleaning with a tissue paper, few drops of extracted juice was placed on the prism and the readings recorded were expressed in °Brix. \r\npH. For determining pH of fruits and vegetables and their products a buffer of pH 4 would be sufficient. Standardized the pH meter using this buffer and checked the pH of the tamarind pulp. \r\nTitrable Acidity. It is necessary to determine titrable acidity of a given food sample to ensure the presence of acid in terms of predominant acid present in it. The predominant acid present in the tamarind is the tartaric acid and the acid content was determined as per Bates (1994). Ten grams of homogenized sample was taken and made up to 100 ml volume in a volumetric flask. The contents were than filtered through Whatman no.1 filter paper; an aliquot of 10 ml was taken for titration against 0.1 N NaOH using phenolphthalein indicator and light pink colour as end point, to estimate titrable acidity in terms of tartaric acid. \r\nFactor for acidity: One ml. of N/10 NaOH = 0.0075g of tartaric acid.\r\nThe titrable acid content was calculated as:\r\nTitrable acidity (%tartaric acid) =\r\n \r\nAscorbic acid. Tartaric Acid content of the sample was estimated by using Bates (1994). Tartaric acid content of the sample was expressed as mg/100g. 10g of the pulp sample was blended with reasonable amount of 0.4% oxalic acid and then filtered by Whatman No.1 filter paper. The volume of the filtrate was completed to 250 ml with 0.4% oxalic acid. 20 ml of the filtrate was pipettes into a beaker and then titrated with dye solution (0.2g 2.6-dicholorophenol- indo phenol dissolve in 500ml solution) to a faint pink color. \r\nThe ascorbic acid content was calculated as: \r\nAscorbic acid (mg/100g) =\r\n \r\nFactor = \r\nThe dye strength was determined by taking 5ml of standard ascorbic acid (0.05g ascorbic acid / 250 ml 10 % oxalic acid solution) in a beaker and titrate with dye solution to faint pink color. \r\nReducing sugars. The reducing sugars were determined by the method of Bates (1994). 10 grams of sample was taken in 250 ml volumetric flask. To this, 100 ml of distilled water was added and the contents were neutralized by 1 N sodium hydroxide solution using 1-2 drops of phenolphthalein indicator. Then two ml of 45 per cent lead acetate was added to it. The contents were mixed well and kept for 10 minutes. Two ml of 22 per cent potassium oxalate was added to it to precipitate the excess of lead. The volume was made to 250 ml with distilled water and solution was filtered through Whatman No. 4 filter paper. This filtrate was used for determination of reducing sugars by titrating it against the boiling mixture of Fehling ‘A’ and Fehling ‘B’ solutions (5 ml each) using methylene blue as indicator and formation of brick red precipitate as an end point. Keeping the Fehling’s solution boiling on the heating mantle carried out the titration. The results were expressed on per cent basis. \r\nTotal sugars. For inversion at room temperature, a 50 ml aliquot of clarified deleaded solution was transferred to 250 ml volumetric flask, to which, 10 ml HCl was added and then allowed to stand at room temperature for 24 hrs. It was then neutralized with 0.1 N sodium hydroxide solution using 1-2 drops of phenolphthalein indicator. The volume of neutralized aliquot was made to 250 ml with distilled water. This aliquot was used for determination of total sugars by titrating it against the boiling mixture of Fehling ‘A’ and Fehling ‘B’ (5 ml each) using methylene blue as indicator to a brick red end point. The volume was made up to the mark and determined the total sugar as invert sugars. The results were expressed on per cent basis.\r\nStatistical analysis. Statistical analysis of experimental data was done using OPSTAT Software. The data of different experiments conducted were analyzed as per the design (CRD) to determine the significant differences among treatments.\r\nRESULTS AND DISCUSSION\r\nThe results obtained from the present investigation are tabulated; statistically analyzed and relevant discussions have been summarized with the following headings:\r\nStudy of Physical, Engineering and Bio-Chemical Properties of Tamarind Fruit and Pulp\r\nPhysical properties of tamarind fruit genotypes. In the present study fruit characters such as length (mm), breadth (mm), thickness (mm), weight of single fruit (g) and number of seeds per fruit of seven different tamarind genotypes (Plate 1) were studied and the results are presented in Table 1. \r\nDevelopment of high-yielding crop varieties necessitates knowledge of the kind and extent of variability existing in the genotypes available, which depends on the wise evaluation of the data on phenotypic traits associated with yield that are now accessible (Rajamanickam, 2019). Similarly, for design and development of any processing machine; the length, width and thickness of tamarind fruits are important. Length is highly influenced by nutrition available for the plant and management practices that also influence directly the length of the pod and thickness of pods might be due to inherent genetic variations among the genotypes.\r\nWith respect to length of tamarind fruit, the studied genotypes did not differ significantly however, numerically higher fruit length was observed in DTS-2 (115.70 mm) followed by NFN-7 (110 mm) and SMG-14 (105.52 mm). The least length of tamarind fruit is observed in NFN-6 (89.86 mm). Physical parameters (breadth and thickness) of tamarind fruits of different genotypes statistically differed significantly. Significantly higher tamarind fruit breadth was recorded by DTS-2 (30.23 mm) over other genotypes whereas; significantly least tamarind fruit breadth was recorded in SMG-14 (18.30 mm). Significantly higher fruit thickness of 18.64 mm was recorded by NFN-7 and it was on par with DTS-2 (18.16 mm). Whereas, significantly least fruit thickness was observed by SMG-14 (12.18 mm). Similar trend was observed for tamarind pulp (Table 1). The differences in the length of pod and width of pod may be attributed to the difference in genetic makeup of the different tamarind genotypes. The similar variation in pod length in tamarind genotypes was reported by Tadas et al. (2015). High heritability accompanied by medium to low genetic advance for pod width, pod thickness and pulp per cent is indicative of non-additive gene action and the high heritability is being exhibited due to favorable influence of environment rather than genotype (Divakara, 2008). Nandini et al. (2011) reported that longest fruit length was in the range of 6.65 cm to 20.04 cm and the pod width in the range of 2.30 cm to 4.84 cm among the 100 tamarind genotypes were evaluated at Karnataka. Dehdivan & Panahi (2017) opined that there were differences in physical properties among the date seeds.\r\nSignificantly higher number of seeds per tamarind fruits recorded in SMG-14 (7.65) and NFN-7 (7.24) followed by red tamarind (6.36). The seed number per fruit seems to be the varietal character in the tamarind genotypes. The difference in seed weight may be attributed to the differences in the number and size of seeds among the different tamarind genotypes. This is highly influenced by nutrition available for the plant and the management practices that also influence directly the length of the pod. Hanamashetti (1996) opined that the difference in seed number may be attributed to the difference in length of pod and ovule fertility. The similar results corroborated with the results obtained by Hanamashetti and Sulkeri (1997); Divakara (2008) in tamarind genotypes.\r\nEngineering and gravimetric properties of tamarind genotypes. The engineering properties like shape (geometric mean diameter and sphericity index) and gravimetric properties namely bulk density, true density and porosity for tamarind genotypes (Plate 1) were studied and the results are presented in Table 2. The average mean maximum values of geometric mean diameter, sphericity index, bulk density, true density and porosity of tamarind genotypes were found to be 66.17–24.57 mm, 0.55-0.23, 362-263.67 kg/m3, 693.89-491.36 kg/m3 and 63.90-26.31 percent, respectively. The shape is inherited and also affected by the environment. The shape of the fruits observed as curved, semi curved and straight fruit shapes but Fandohan et al., (2010) reported curved and the straight pod shapes. The shapes are affected by the seed number and seed shapes which are influenced by its genetics. Idhayavarman (2019) noted slightly similar average values for bulk density, true density and porosity of tamarind fruit and velvet tamarind fruits.\r\nComposition of tamarind fruit genotypes. The significant variations for fruit characters and quality parameters were observed among the seven tamarind genotypes which are presented in Table 3. The finding revealed that shell weight was ranged from 528 g to 302 g significantly higher shell weight was recorded in SMG-14 genotypes (528 g) over all other genotypes. Whereas, the least shell weight was found in NFN-7 (302 g). The variation in shell weight per fruit of different tamarind genotypes may be attributed to the difference in size of the fruit. Similar variation in shell weight was also observed by Mastan et al. (1997). Tamarind fruit (pod) weight is directly correlated with pulp weight and seed number. \r\nThe fibre weight ranged from 51.96 g to 8.36 g significantly higher fibre weight was recorded in NFN-7 genotype of 51.96 g and the lowest weight was found in PKM-1 (8.36 g). The pulp weight ranged from 413.01 g to 216.53 g. The differences in vein weight per pod among the different genotypes of tamarind may be due to the differences in the rate of development of vascular tissue in fruits (Hanamashetti and Sulikeri 1997)). \r\nThe highest pulp weight was recorded in NFN-7 (413.01 g) followed by red tamarind (388.41 g). The lowest pulp weight was observed in SMG-14 (216.53 g). Present investigation follows results of Challapilli et al. (1995), where the fruit weight is positively and significantly associated with pulp, fibre, seed weight, fruit length and breadth. Nandini et al. (2011) also reported that pulp weight was in the range from 6.99 g to 0.99 g for 100 tamarind genotypes. Tamarind pulp weight is factor of management practices given to the tree. \r\nWeight of seeds per fruit ranged from 276 g to 134.53 g. The difference in shell weight can be clearly attributed to the difference in size of the fruit. The difference in the pod length, pod width, pod thickness and pod circumference may be attributed to genetic difference among the genotypes (Divakara (2008); Fandohan et al. (2011)). The difference in fibre weight may be due to the differences in the rate of development of vascular tissue in fruits (Hanamashetti and Sulikeri 1997). The difference in seed weight may be attributed to the difference in the number and size of seeds. \r\nColour. In Table 4, Tristimulus colour values, represented in terms of L*, a*, b* for the tamarind fruit and its pulp. The average colour values (L*, a*, b*) for ripe tamarind fruit and its pulp of seven different tamarind genotypes was ranged from 44.88-36.43 of L*; 8.81-6.57 of a*; 14.07-10.59 of b* and 37.64-25.21 of L*; 10.18-6.50 of a*; 13.52-3.71 of b* for tamarind fruit and pulp, respectively. Tamarind pulp color varied from light brownish red to dark brown. Obulesu and Bhattacharya (2011) reported slightly similar colour values for ripe tamarind pulp. Fandohan et al. (2011) reported reddish brown and brown colors, which slightly varies from the findings. Variations in tamarind fruit color are highly influenced by the age of the fruit and environmental changes. The pulp color is highly influenced by genetic make-up of the plant. According to Obulesu and Bhattacharya (2011) colour change in tamarind pulp increased sharply after maturation due to non-enzymatic browning. \r\nBio-chemical properties of tamarind genotypes. The genotypes differed significantly with respect to total soluble solids, pH, titrable acidity, ascorbic acid, and sugars content (Table 5). Significantly higher total soluble solid was recorded in SMG-14 (18.17 °Brix) and the least was recorded in NFN-6 (13.37 °Brix). This difference in total soluble solids content is due to the difference in sugar content of the pulp. The differences in TSS content of tamarind pulp may be due to difference in sugar content of tamarind fruits of different genotypes. Tamarind growing in arid region with limited water tends to more accumulation of dry matter and lower moisture may be results in higher TSS in tamarind fruits.\r\nThe maximum titrable acidity content was recorded in NFN-7 (17.35 %) while the minimum was recorded in SMG-14 (5.9 %). This variation in acidity content is due to the difference in sugar content of the pulp and also inherent genetic makeup of each genotype. The differences in percent tartaric acid content of different tamarind genotypes may be due to different tamarind genotypes and varied from season to season (Hanamashetti (1996); Hanamashetti and Sulikeri (1997); Mastan et al. (1997)). The similar results are also found by Prabhushankar et al. (2004) in PKM-1 tamarind. The tamarind fruit has been defined as bitter sweet fruit due to its high content of tartaric acids and reducing sugars combined and also said to be the acidest and sweetest fruit (Rajmanikam, 2019).\r\nThe maximum ascorbic acid content of pulp was recorded in NFN-7 (5.7 mg/100 g) and the minimum was recorded in SMG-14 (3.17 mg/100 g). The variation in the ascorbic acid content of pulp is due to the perpetual synthesis of glucose-6-phosphate throughout the growth and development of fruits which is thought to be the precursor of vitamin - C (ascorbic acid) and also depends on the genotypic differences. \r\nThe highest pH of the pulp was recorded in red tamarind (2.37) and the lowest pH was recorded in sweet tamarind (2.06). The difference in pH concentrate is attributed to the difference in acid to sugar ratio of the pulp and also a distinct feature of the different genotypes. Similar results were documented by Adeola and Aworh (2012). \r\nThe elevated reducing sugar content of the pulp was recorded in NFN-7 (17.55 %) while, the lowest was recorded in SMG-14 (16.77 %). The maximum total sugar content of the pulp was recorded in PKM-1 (13.71 %) while the least was recorded in NFN-7 (8.06 %). The sugar content of tamarind is due to fruit ripening, which is associated with major metabolic changes in the fruit, where complex polysaccharides are converted to monosaccharides. Fluctuations in sugar content are due to differences in the acidity of the pulp and differ within and between genotypes. The similar outcome with respect to the sugar content of tamarind genotypes were revealed by Prabhushankar et al. (2004); Adeola and Aworh (2012). \r\n','Sreedevi M.S., Rajkumar P., Palanimuthu V., Hanumanthappa D.C., Surendrakumar A., Ganapathy S., and Geethalakshmi I. (2022). Investigation of Physical, Engineering and Bio-chemical Traits of Tamarind Genotypes. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 14(3): 253-260.'),(5265,'136','Line × Tester Study in Bread Wheat (Triticum aestivum L.) for the Estimation of Correlation and Path coefficients for Important Morphological and Biochemical Traits','Anand Kumar, Shabir H. Wani*, Lokendra Singh, and Som Veer Singh, Zahoor A. Dar, J.A. Lone, Abid H. Lone, M.S. Dar, Saba Mir, Shakir Ayoub and Audil Gull','46 Line × Tester Study in Bread Wheat (Triticum aestivum L.) for the Estimation of Correlation and Path coefficients for Important Morphological and Biochemical Traits Shabir H. Wani.pdf','',1,'In this paper, the present investigation aims to evaluate the correlation and path coefficients analysis under normal conditions through line × tester analysis. 15 diverse genotypes including 10 lines, 5 testers and their 50 F1s hybrids were evaluated for 13 morphological and 2 biochemical traits. The two different locations were taken characters studied. The correlation coefficient of grain yield per plant showed high degree of positive significant association with days to flowering, days to maturity, number of productive tillers per plant, spike length, number of spikelets per spike, number of grains per spike, biological yield per plant, harvest index, seed hardness and protein content at phenotypic level and days to flowering, days to maturity, number of productive tillers per plant, spike length, number of spikelets per spike, number of grains per spike, biological yield per plant, harvest index, seed hardness and protein content at genotypic level. The path coefficients analysis of such characters plant height, number of productive tillers per plant, number of spikelets per spike, number of grains per spike, biological yield per plant, harvest index, seed hardness, protein content, exerted positive direct effect on seed yield per plant at both genotypic and phenotypic level while days to maturity, spike length, test weight/1000 grain weight, phenol color reaction exerted negative direct effect on seed yield per plant at both phenotypic level and genotypic level. Among Parents+F1+F2 grain yield per plant showed desirable and positive significant association with days to flowering, days to maturity, number of productive tillers per plant, spike length, number of spikelets per spike, number of grains per spike, biological yield per plant, harvest index, seed hardness and protein content at both phenotypic and genotypic level. Hence, it is clear from study that numbers of productive tillers per plant, spike length, number of spikelets per spike, number of grains per spike, biological yield per plant are important traits for grain yield improvement. ','Bread wheat, correlation coefficients, direct and indirect effect','The results obtained from 15 diverse genotypes and their combination exhibited that the association of days to flowering, days to maturity, number of productive tillers per plant, spike length, number of spikelets per spike, number of grains per spike, biological yield per plants, harvest index, seed hardness, and protein content are significant and positive on seed yield per plant. Moreover, plant height, number of productive tillers per plants, number of spikelets per spike, biological yield per plant, harvest index, seed hardness and protein content at path coefficient level showed positive effect on seed yield per plant at both phenotypic and genotypic level. However, negative direct effect on seed per plants was of days to maturity, spike length, test weight/1000 grain weight, phenol color reaction at both genotypic and phenotypic level and it is considered that these traits can increase the yield of bread wheat. It is proved by study that these characters and their combination may improve the yield further. ','INTRODUCTION\r\nEver since human civilization took place, the bread wheat is an important cereal crop and a staple food cultivated globally to fulfil the requirement of human beings (FAOSTAT, 2015; Istipliler et al., 2015). Wheat consists of about 55% carbohydrates, 10-18 % of protein and 19% of calories which is required for humans and it is also used as a straw for feeding to animals (Shewry and Hey 2015). It is assumed that population will be 10 billion by 2050, so feed to this explosive population, the wheat yield has to be doubled by 2050, that’s why, the extensive research is required to enhance the grain yield of wheat, the improvement of wheat yield may increase by applying agronomic practices, and breeding programme (Mohammadi et al., 2021). The complex trait like grain yield is governed by minor genes and is the product of several contributing traits directly or indirectly. There are several morphological and biochemical traits are associated with economic productivity which is depending on genotypic and phenotypic correlation (Al-Ashkar et al., 2021). Knowledge about nature and magnitude of genetic association of components of economic importance can help to improve the efficiency of selection by making possible use of suitable combination of characters (Paux et al., 2022). It is considered that yield and their components are determined at different stage of the plant. These different characters are affected by various environmental factors. The correlation pattern of yield and yield components are necessary when compensation between yield components lead variation (Fernandes et al., 2021). The importance of genotypic and environmental interaction and their contribution to genetic slippage in the selection of complex characters improved the yield. The knowledge about correlation of yield and yield contribution traits reveals the indication in that selection pressure could be most profitable to be exercised in order to obtain plants having high yield ability (Poudel et al., 2021).\r\nMoreover, the path coefficients analysis is a method of calculation direct and indirect effects of traits on grain yield, and provides a way for examining specific forces responsible to produce a given correlation. The method of path analysis depends on the combination of knowledge of degree of correlation among the variables in a system and helps us to know the casual and effect relations, through partitioning of total correlation into direct and indirect effects to get actual information on the contribution of different components traits towards grain yield. In cases where the casual relations are uncertain, the method can be used to find out the logical consequences of any particular hypothesis in regard to them (Zhang et al., 2021). In the present study, the design line × tester is used to obtain the knowledge of the genotype, genetic mechanism that control the yield and yield contributing characters that have become of importance for the breeders. \r\nMATERIAL METHODS\r\nA. Parental genotype and crossing\r\nThe basic material was 15 diverse wheat genotypes based on origin diversity that divided into two groups viz: 10 females (lines) and 5 males (testers). Ten females and five males were sown during rabi 2018-2019 for crossing purpose in L × T fashion at Section of Rabi cereals Nawabganj farm. All the females were crossed with each of five males to produce a sufficient amount of F1 seed of 50 crosses. The 50 F1 progenies were selfed to produce F2 seeds. The testers are selected based on wider adaptability, poor yielder, lower performance and broad genetic base. The details of genotypes are as follows (Table 1).\r\nDevelopment of F1 seed: All fifteen genotypes, 10 lines (female) and 5 testers (males) were grown during Rabi season 2018-19 for making crosses in line × tester fashion and resultant seeds of 50 hybrids (F1) were harvested.\r\nDevelopment of F2 seed: The half seed of each hybrid was sent for advancement at IIWBR-Regional Station, India in an off-season nursery to obtain seed for raising F2 generation. Rest half seed of each cross was procured to rase F1 generation in the final trial.\r\nB. Experimental sites and agronomic practices \r\nThe parents and their crosses were evaluated under two different locations during the 2018-2019 and 2019-2020 \r\ngrowing seasons. The investigating material consisting of 115 genotypes (15 parents, 50 F1s and 50 F2) was sown on 27 November 2019. The whole experiment is conducted in a randomized completely block design (RCBD) with three replication at crop research farm Nawabganj of Chandra Shekhar Azad University of Agriculture and Technology, Kanpur. Each parent and F1 were planted in a single row while each F2 were planted in two rows of 3-meter-long plot and 22.5 cm apart, 10 cm Plant to plant distance was maintained. \r\nC. Morphological and biochemical characterization \r\nThe biochemical and morphological characterizations were examined as Days to flowering (75%), Plant height (cm), Days to maturity, Number of productive tillers/plants, Flag leaf area (cm)2, Spike length (cm), Number of spikelets/spike, Number of grains/spike, biological yield/plant (gm), Grain yield /plant (gm), Test weight/1000 grain weight (gm), Harvest index (%), Seed hardness, Phenol color reaction and protein content (%). The following observation was recorded and summarized as given below. \r\nD. Data analysis\r\nThe correlation and path coefficients among Parent + F1 + F2 had analyzed using the R statistical software package. The experiment results were analyzed to study parameters among treatments, and the significance association was calculated using least significant differences (LSD) P < 0.05. Statistical significance was marked at P<0.05 unless stated otherwise. Other factors such as temperature, climatic condition, topography, and soil characteristics affected the experiment.\r\nRESULTS AND DISCUSSION\r\nPhenotypic and genotypic correlation coefficients were estimated for fifteen characters in all possible pairs based on pooled calculation presented in Table 2. In this study, the pooled material parents+F1+F2 were studied. Days to flowering, days to maturity, number of productive tillers per plants, spike length, number of spikelets per spike, number of grains per spike, biological yield per plant, harvest index, seed hardness, seed hardness, and protein content showed high degree of positive correlation with grain yield per plant at phenotypic level, however, days to flowering, days to maturity, number of productive tillers per plant, spike length, number of spikelets per spike, number of grains per spike, biological yield per plant, harvest index, seed hardness, and protein content showed positive significant association with seed per plant at genotypic level (Table 2).\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\nSimilar findings were reported for most of the characters by Aycicek and Yildirim (2006); Joshi et al. (2008); Anwar et al. (2009); Khan and Dar (2010); Mohsen et al. (2011); Khan et al. (2012); Kyosev and Desheva (2015). In general, the genotypic correlations were higher in magnitude than phenotypic correlation coefficients indicating strong positive inherent relationship between the characters (Table 2).\r\nThe path coefficients analysis carried out at genotypic as well as phenotypic correlation coefficients, estimate based on pooled data were used to assess direct and indirect effects of various characters on the expression of grain yield per plant (Table 3 and 4 respectively). The path coefficients analysis of Days to flowering (0.0032), plant height (0.0073), number of productive tillers per plant (0.537), number of spikelets per spike (0.433), number of grains per spike (0.0073), biological yield per plant (0.8838), harvest index (0.3526) and seed hardness (0.0043) and protein content (0.0045) exerted positive direct effect on seed yield per plant, whereas days to maturity (-0.0113), flag leaf area (-0.0085), spike length (-0.0139), test weight/1000 grain weight (-0.0112), phenol color reaction (-0.0079) exerted negative direct effect on seed yield per plant at phenotypic level (Table-3).Plant height (0.0106), number of productive tillers per plant (0.0080), flag leaf area (0.0015), number of spikelets per spike (0.0220), number of grains per spike (0.0009), biological yield per plant (0.9261), harvest index (0.3625), seed hardness (0.0168), protein content (0.0022) exerted positive direct effect on grain yield per plant, whereas days to flowering (-0.0003), days to maturity (-0.0569), spike length (-0.0289), test weight/1000 grain weight (-0.0008), phenol color reaction (-0.0067) exerted negative direct effect on seed yield per plant at genotypic level (Table 4). These results are in agreement with the findings of Aycicek and Yildirim, (2006); Munir et al. (2007); Joshi et al. (2008); Anwar et al. (2009); Khan and Dar (2010); Mohsen et al. (2011); Khan et al. (2012); Kyosev and Desheva (2015). The residual effect determines how best the causal factors account for the variability of the dependent variable i.e. seed yield per plant. The low estimate of residual effect suggested that most of the important traits contributing to yield have been included in the study.\r\n','Anand Kumar, Shabir H. Wani, Lokendra Singh, and Som Veer Singh, Zahoor A. Dar, J.A. Lone, Abid H. Lone, M.S. Dar, Saba Mir, Shakir Ayoub and Audil Gull (2022). Line × Tester Study in Bread Wheat (Triticum aestivum L.) for the Estimation of Correlation and Path coefficients for Important Morphological and Biochemical Traits. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 14(3): 267-273.'),(5266,'136','Effect on Physio-Chemical, Textural and Nutritional qualities of Pressure parboiled karuppukavuni rice (Oryza sativa L. indica)','Koperundevi Venkatesh, Arunasree Asokan and Bhuvana Shanmugham','47 Effect on Physio-Chemical, Textural and Nutritional qualities of Pressure parboiled karuppukavuni rice (Oryza sativa L. indica) KARUNA APPUGOL.pdf','',1,'White rice is typically replaced with non-glutinous karuppukavuni rice variants as a staple diet. Consumer interest in the new processed goods made with karuppukavuni rice is developing quickly. The effect of pressure parboiling of karuppukavuni (Oryza sativa L. indica) rice on the physical, chemical, cooking, textural and nutritional characteristics with the varying process parameters were investigated. The pressure parboiled karuppukavuni rice was compared with the raw karuppukavuni rice, among the different experimental combinations of pressure parboiling condition with the cold soaking for 4 hours, pressure under 1.5kg/cm2 for 30 minutes was observed the suitable pressure parboiling method with minimal physiochemical changes in karuppukavuni. The treatment resulted in increase in head rice yield (70.50±1.67 to 88.84±0.23), with the minimal colour (3.07±0.01) change. The cooking time of pressure parboiled karuppukavuni rice was increased (76.37±1.98 to 90.28±1.18). Pressure parboiled karuppukavuni rice resulted in increased hardness (216.1±58.8 to 514.0±15.1) and increase of protein (9.19±0.0 to 11.23±0.24), carbohydrate (69.72±1.20 to 71.67±1.91) and ash (1.88±0.2 to 2.78±0.15), leaching of crude fat (5.89±1.28 to 3.68±1.01) and crude fiber (1.04±0.01 to 0.90±0.0).','Karuppukavuni (Oryza sativa L. indica), pressure parboiling, anti-oxidant, physiochemical','The current research was focused on the effect of pressure parboiling method on characteristics of karuppukavuni rice. Among the various treatment conducted with combination of soaking type, soaking time, steaming time and steaming pressure, the treatment 10 which possess the condition of pressure 1.5kg/cm2, cold soaking type with the soaking duration of 4 hours where the paddy was autoclaved with steaming time of 30 mins, was determined to be the optimum for parboiling. At ideal pressure parboiling position, the head rice yield was increased by 88.84% as compared to non-parboiled raw sample. For a sample that had been treated satisfactorily overall, the yellowness was reported to be 3.29. The b-value demonstrated that the sample\'s yellowness decreased noticeably as the steaming and soaking times were increased. The parboiling approach lengthened the cooking time (13.91 minutes) due to the rice\'s increased hardness. Rice\'s dense structure enhanced water uptake ratio to 0.16 percent while increased gruel solid loss while heating to 1.12 percent. Comparing with control and varies treatment the hardness, cohesiveness, gumminess and chewiness showed a significant difference (p<0.05) whereas adhesiveness and springiness has no significant difference (p>0.05) in value. Pressure parboiling has a detrimental impact on fat, fiber, and ash. However, rice that has been pressure-parboiled has slightly higher protein content.','INTRODUCTION\r\nOne of the most extensively used grains in the world is rice (Oryza sativa). Rice is a staple crop in many Asian countries and in India. Rice is the primary source of food consumed by people. Rice is considered to be a rich source of dietary fiber, riboflavin, thiamin, magnesium, phosphorus, niacin and source of energy. Based on the color, rice is categorized into white, black, red, green varieties. The color of the rice is determined by anthocyanin pigment composition. Anthocyanin are water soluble pigment, flavonoids, glycosylated polyphenolic compound (Tanaka & Ohmiya 2008). Anthocyanin act as antioxidant, fighting free radical, and in addition to that they are having benefits of anti-cancer, anti-viral and anti-inflammatory. Because rice is a primary food for the majority of the world\'s population, producing therapeutic rice types with increased nutritional value will have a bigger influence on preventing the aforementioned lifestyle problems. This paved the way to traditional rice varieties. Traditional colored rice variants are high in resistant starch, dietary fiber, flavonoids, minerals, polyphenols, and carotenoids and eating grains from pigmented rice varieties can assist improve human health. It is anticipated that the dietary supplementation of these ancient rice variants\' bioactive phytochemicals and micronutrient constituents will be crucial in lowering the prevalence of non-communicable diseases like cardiovascular disease, diabetes, cancer, and stroke (Vichapong et al., 2010). To minimize the usage of white rice and switch to unpolished or coloured rice, numerous programmes have been put into place (Helmyati & Wigati 2022). As a result, black rice seems to have become a popular alternative to white rice (Noorlaila et al., 2018) The Karuppukavuni rice grains were black in colour and were high in minerals including copper, zinc, potassium, sodium, and manganese. It has a lower total sugar content, a lower fat content, a higher protein content, and higher quantities of carotenoids, phenolic acids, and flavonoids (Raj & Sankaran 2021). It was found to have anti effects in addition to its nutritional value because of its innate ability to regulate blood sugar levels (Reddy, 2018). The digestible fiber is found to be least content and resistant starch is in higher amount in karuppukavuni rice (Haldipur & Srividya 2020). Pressure parboiling resulted to reductions in whiteness, improvements in hardness, transparency, and equilibrium moisture content. Parboiled rice had a higher degree of gelatinization than the other treated samples. A lower GI was associated with rice that contained more amylose and parboiled rice had such a significantly lower GI (Sivakamasundari et al., 2020). Study conducted by (RAJ & Singaravadivel 1982), it is resulted that due to parboiling the paddy, the free fatty acid (FFA) level of the bran dropped. Pressure parboiling significantly lowered the FFA compared to the other parboiling techniques.\r\nMATERIALS AND METHODS\r\nA. Sample\r\nA sample of Karuppu Kavuni (Oryza sativa L. indica) paddy was obtained from Thiruvarur District. The obtained paddy\'s initial average moisture content was 12%. It was stored at ambient condition (Temperature 15 – 25 °C) until required for experiment.\r\nB. Experiment Design\r\nTen experimental runs were carried out by using 4 independent variables: soaking methods, soaking time, steaming pressure, steaming time combinations was explained in Table 1.\r\nPressure Parboiling process of Karuppukavuni Paddy. Pressure parboiled karuppukavuni paddy processing consists of the process of soaking (Hot and cold), autoclave under pressure (1.5 kg/cm²), and drying (sun). The parboiling of paddy was done in two separate ways as hot soaking (65°C) and cold-soaking (room temperature- 27 to 30°C). The paddy was cleaned and soaked in water with varied temperature (65°C & room temperature) and soaking time (30 – 120 mins). The water was drained from the paddy, which then kept in the vessel for steam in an autoclave at a pressure explained as in the experimental design (Table 1). After steaming, the grains were removed and spread out on a tray to dry, bringing the moisture level down to 13–14% (w.b.).\r\nMoisture Content of paddy. The amount of moisture in the grain and the temperature at which it is dried are both important factors in determining whether minor fissures and/or full splits are introduced into the grain structure. The paddy moisture content was evaluated by drying 5 g of the sample for 24 hours at 105 ± 5 ° C in a hot air oven. The value of percent wet basis (% wb) was calculated using the formula\r\nMilling of Paddy. The main objective of a rice mill is to separate the outer surface of husk and bran, leaving behind an edible, well processed, and contaminant-free rice kernel. Using a Satake rubber roll sheller, control (unparboiled paddy) and parboiled paddy samples among all treatments were dehusked in two passes, producing brown rice.\r\nC. Physical properties of rice\r\nHead rice recovery. The weight proportion of entire rice (three-fourths kernel or greater) after through milling is known as head rice yield. The formula was used to determine the percentage of head rice recovered\r\nHead rice recovery = W_Hr/W x 100\r\nWhere, WHr= weight of head rice (g)\r\n W = weight of paddy (g)\r\nBroken rice percentage. A sample was taken at random in triplicate to determine the broken percentage. Broken grains were defined as those that were shorter than 3/4th of the grain length and were separated by manual picking. Broken percentage were calculated by the formula referred by (Alizadeh, 2011).\r\nBroken rice percentage = W_Tbb/W_Bbb x 100\r\nWhere, WTbr= Total brown rice weight (g)\r\nWBbr= Broken brown rice weight (g)\r\nThousand grain weight. The weight of each thousand grain was calculated by carefully counting and weighing each grain on a digital scale. Three replications\' average was calculated (Gujral et al., 2002).\r\nColour changes. ColorFlex EZ Hunter Lab Chroma meter was used to determine the colour of the sample. The outcomes are represented by the letters L, a, and b.(Kumar & Prasad, 2018)\r\nCooking properties of rice. In accordance with the method described by (Chavan et al., 2017), the cooking properties such as cooking time, cooking coefficient, water uptake ratio, gruel solid loss, length-breadth ratio, were evaluated for raw and parboiled rice using the following equations,\r\nWater uptake ratio (%) = \r\n(Cooked rice weight in grams-Raw rice weight in grams)/(Raw rice weight in grams) x 100\r\nCooking coefficient = L_(ac- L_bc )/B_(ac- B_bc ) \r\nWhere\r\nLac = Length after cooking (mm)\r\nLbc= Length before cooking (mm)\r\nBac = Breadth after cooking (mm)\r\nBbc= Breadth before cooking (mm)\r\nGruel solid loss (%) = (Increase in weight of dish)/(rice sample weight) x 100\r\nTexture profile analysis. The texture of the cooked rice before and after pressure parboiling process was determined using Texture Analyzer (Stable Micro Systems TA.HD plus C Texture Analyzer (Godalming, United Kingdom). The platform contained a single number of cooked rice. A special test program was selected, the probe used in the equipment for the analysis were Probe P/5 and it was used with pretest speed – 1.00 mm/s, test speed – 0.5 mm/s, posttest speed – 1 mm/s, target mode type – distance – 2mm, time – 5 sec. Compression was to 100% strain. Parameters acquired from test curves were hardness, cohesiveness, adhesiveness, springiness, gumminess, chewiness (Park et al., 2001).\r\nNutritional Qualities. The moisture, ash, protein, fat and fiber content of raw and pressure parboiled sample were determined by official methods 945.38, 941.12, 979.09, 945.38 and 920.86 (AOAC, 2016). The carbohydrate percent was determined by subtracting from 100 the moisture, crude fat, crude fibre, crude protein, and ash values acquired from different treatments (Abdul-Hamid et al., 2007).\r\nD. Statistical analysis \r\nEvery test was run in triplicate. The general linear model (ANOVA) and Tukey\'s multiple comparison test were used by Minitab Statistical Software to assess the statistical differences.\r\nRESULTS AND DISCUSSION\r\nA. Changes in Physical properties of raw and pressure parboiled Karuppukavuni rice\r\nHead rice recovery. The milling quality of rough rice improved significantly after parboiling treatment. The parboiling process provides the grains toughness, which helps them resist breaking during milling, reducing breakage and increases milling yield (ISLAM et al., 2002). The maximum head rice recovery of 99.8% was obtained on the pressure parboiling treatment three when the soaking type, soaking time, steaming time and steaming pressure were hot soaking, 4 hours, 30 min and 1.5 kg/cm2 respectively, and the minimum head rice recovery was attained on the fourth pressure parboiling treatment when these factors were cold soaking, 0.5 hours, 60 min and 1 kg/cm2 respectively, resulting of 71% whereas the pressure parboiling treatment ten (PP10) poses the factors of cold soaking type, 4 hours soaking time, 30 min steaming time and 1.5 kg/cm2 steaming pressure which provides overall satisfactory results has the recovery of 88.84% and the recovery of control (un-parboiled) sample were 70.5% as indicated in (Table 2). The head rice recovery percentage showed significant difference (p<0.05) between control and treated samples. They increase with increase in soaking temperature and soaking time and decrease with decrease in steaming pressure and combination of soaking time and steaming time respectively. Head rice recovery of parboiled rice is higher because pre-gelatinization mends grain fractures and parboiling hardens the grains and increases their resistance to breaking during milling. Because the rice kernel absorbs water while soaking, starch granules swell (Hapsari et al., 2016). Soaking at room temperature slows, whereas the hot soaking achieved better removal of outer layer without damaging the rice kernel.\r\nBroken Percentage. In contrast to head rice yield, it showed a reversal pattern for broken rice, with high head rice recovery in the sample leading to low broken percentage (Chavan et al., 2017). The observed broken percentage showed a significant difference (p<0.05) for sample was given in (Table 2). For un-parboiled sample, it was 29.63% whereas for pressure parboiled sample heading from 0.19% for treatment three it increased up to 29.01% for treatment four. The broken percentage for treatment which gives overall satisfactory result was 11.37%. Starch gelatinization and protein denaturation boost the breaking strength of parboiled rice, possibly filling the vacuum gaps in the kernels and reducing cracks. Lower degree of starch gelatinization, on the other hand, has a negative impact on this physical quality, increasing the chances of damaged grains. The breaking resistance of parboiled rice is significantly affected by the heating parameters during the steaming process, with extreme heating causing a 100 percent increase in DSG, boosting the head rice yield. On either side, during the parboiling process, due to the moisture content disparities inside the grains, cracks may form during the soaking step, contributing to rupture. Furthermore, kernels that are much more prone to breakage, such as core grains, may form during the parboiling process as a result of gelatinization of the outer surface under conditions where there is no moisture equilibration and, as a result, the moisture in the center of the kernel is insufficient to ensure adequate starch gelatinization (Villanova et al., 2020).\r\nThousand grain weight. The net weight of 1000 rice kernels in grams was used to calculate the weight of a thousand grains (Table 2). The thousand grain weight was observer to be decreased on pressure parboiling conditions from 23.78 gm for raw rice to on varies treatments decreased from 23.67±0.43gm to 22.90±0.29gm for the treatments of five and six respectively. The Thousand grain weight for treatment which gives overall satisfactory result pressure parboiling treatment ten (PP10) was 23.00 gm. Milling and shelling are the main cause for the loss of a third of the paddy, as the former procedure removes the bran and husk covering from the paddy (Kumar & Prasad 2018). The leaching process also contributed to the weight loss in parboiled samples when compared to controls (Jayaraman et al., 2019).\r\nB. Changes in colour attribute of raw and pressure parboiling of Karuppukavuni rice\r\nHunter L-values are a measure of how light or bright a rice sample is shown in (Table 3). The L-values for the pressure parboiled rice samples were 22.92±0.02– 19.95±0.02compared to 26.37±0.13for un-treated rice sample. The L-value 21.58 possess for the pressure parboiled treatment ten (PP10). It showed significant difference (p<0.05) due to rice that has been parboiled has a distinct colour than rice that has not been parboiled. The transfer of husk colour into the endosperm gives parboiled rice its amber hue. The isomerization of glucose to fructose and the higher levels of reducing sugar and free a-amino nitrogen suggest that non-enzymatic Maillard kind browning may be the cause of the colour change in parboiled rice. In parboiled rice, the quantity of colour change increases as the temperature of the soak water rises, soak time, and steaming time of poorly hydrated grain. At high soaking temperatures, husk colour absorption is also increased, and colored substance absorption from soak water is also severely impacted whiteness of kernels (Oli et al., 2014). Hunter a-values for pressure parboiled samples varied between 6.37 – 3.64 and 6.87 be the un-treated rice sample value. The a-value for treatment which gives overall satisfactory result was 5.36 respectively. It showed a significant difference (p<0.05) between control and pressure parboiled samples. The bran and outer endosperm are where the red pigments are concentrated. Rice bran or hull pigments that seep out during soaking in excessive water and spread into the endosperm all through steaming might change the colour of parboiled rice. The degree of parboiling affects the colour changes. The amount of reducing sugar produced by degradation of starch that affect with proteins to give the brown colour in parboiled rice could be the cause of the Maillard browning reaction (Hapsari et al., 2016). \r\nA measure of yellowness, showed a significant difference (p<0.05) between control treated samples. b-value with positive values, for the pressure parboiled samples was between 2.32 to 4.07 with the value of 5.41 for un-treated sample. The yellowness was observed to be 3.29 for overall satisfactory treated sample. The b-value showed that the increase in steaming time and soaking duration markedly decrease the yellowness of the sample.\r\nC. Changes in cooking qualities of raw and pressure parboiling of Karuppukavuni rice\r\nThe cooking quality characteristics of Karuppukavuni rice were evaluated included cooking time, Gruel solid, water uptake ratio, L/B ratio and cooing coefficient. Highly significant differences (p < 0.05) were noticed for these quality characteristics of differently processed pressure parboiled karuppukavuni rice (Table 4).\r\nCooking time. The temperature of gelatinization and amylose content have a significant impact on the way rice cooks. Rice varieties with an amylose level of higher than 25% absorb larger amount of water during cooking and have a fluffy texture when done. Amylose content determines the texture of cooked rice. The cooking time similarly varied significantly among the differently processed karuppukavuni rice ranging from 76.37±1.98 to 101.72±3.38 min. The rice samples that were pressure parboiled with karuppukavuni had the longer cooking times overall. Since the gelatinization temperature is a direct determinant of the cooking time for rice, the variance in cooking time might be attributed to this temperature. According to some claims, rice cooks more slowly the higher the gelatinization temperature value. According to this study, there is a substantial positive link between cooking time and gelatinization temperatures. As explained by (Bhattacharya & Sowbhagya 1971), Cooking time is largely determined by the rice\'s milled surface area and is unrelated to other grain characteristics.\r\nWater uptake ratio. The range of values for water uptake ratio varies from 2.20±0.04 to 2.72±0.03. The highest values for water uptake ratio obtained for the pressure parboiled karuppukavuni rice when compared to raw karuppukavuni rice. There may be an amylose component causing the high water uptake ratio, had reported by Frei et al. (2003). Rice with a more amylose content has been shown to absorb more water when cooked. The higher moisture content of the rice may possibly be to blame for this. Surprisingly, there was no link with amylose and water uptake ratio. Therefore, further research is required to define the link among both amylose content and water uptake ratio. It is important to note that a higher water uptake ratio has a negative impact on how tasty cooked rice tastes. The stability of the cooked rice is impacted by solids in the cooking water. The difference in values could be due to the different rice consistency, as evidenced by the rupturing of the grains both before and after cooking.\r\nGruel solid loss. The gruel solid loss was observed to be 5.82% for control sample and for the pressure parboiled treated sample was increase from 4.33% to 22.25%, where the solid loss for optimum treatment was 6.94% showed in (Table 4). Here with the increase in the steaming time decreases the solid content. The outcomes were consistent with those previously reported by (Islam et al., 2001).\r\nL/B ratio. The length-breadth ratio of raw rice was recorded to be 1.40 and the pressure parboiled sample was decreased from 1.40 to 0.83, whereas the value of optimum treatment was 1.03. The L/B ratios of parboiled rice were lesser than un-parboiled cooked rice throughout that both length and width, owing to higher breadth expansion in parboiled rice than raw rice. Parboiled rice has a characteristic short and puffy texture due to its significantly larger expansion along its breadth after cooking (Sujatha et al., 2004).\r\nD. Changes in Textural properties of raw and pressure parboiled Karuppukavuni rice\r\nThe textural characteristics of Karuppukavuni rice were evaluated included hardness, cohesiveness, adhesiveness, springiness, gumminess and chewiness. Highly no significant differences (p>0.05) were noticed for these quality characteristics of differently processed pressure parboiled karuppukavuni rice (Table 5).\r\nHardness. The hardness of the cooked rice samples are gradually increased from 216.1g for control cooked rice to 546.8 g for pressure parboiled sample treatment six. The optimum treatment sample hardness was recorded to be 305.46 g. This is due to after parboiling, an increase in hardness is the main physical change in the rice kernel. The parboiling temperature and duration significantly affect how hard the rice kernels are. As the soaking temperature and steaming time are raised, the rice kernel\'s hardness rises in Table 5. The rice grain\'s tensile properties and flexure strength are also improved by parboiling. The amount of gelatinization and steaming time are directly related to these strength values. The gelatinized starch and damaged protein structures appeared to have grown and absorbed all of the endosperm\'s air gaps. The enhanced hardness of the endosperm in parboiled rice is most likely due to improved attraction between the molecules within starch granules and protein bodies. The strength gain could explain why parboiled rice breaks down less during milling and has a different texture from non-parboiled rice during the cooking process. Due to the cohesiveness between matrix phase and protein bodies, the parboiling operation occupies blank spaces and repairs cracks in the endosperm, making the rice tougher and minimizing internal fissures, reducing rupture during milling operations (Mir et al., 2015).\r\nCohesiveness. The term \"cohesiveness\" refers to the internal resistance of the cooked rice grain (Meng et al., 2018). Here the cohesiveness is recorded to be 0.49 for control sample and it is gradually decreased to 0.23 for the pressure parboiling treatment ten which was the optimized treatment. The degree of milling, amylose content, was all positively and the grain thickness were negatively associated, well with degree of milling impacting this attribute the most. Grain thickness has the smallest impact on cohesiveness values, as the textural qualities of the grain are mostly influenced by its chemical contents (Mohapatra & Bal 2006).\r\nAdhesiveness. The adhesiveness value was observed to be decrease from -0.06 g for the treatment PP2 to -1.11 g for the treatment PP3, where the control sample possess the value of -0.08 g and the optimum pressure parboiled treatment was -0.97 g. Different quantities of moisture absorption into the rice grain during cooking have been ascribed to variation in adhesiveness; a considerable quantity of water penetration into the rice grain leads in improved adhesiveness (Thuengtung& Ogawa 2020). Cooked rice adhesion was determined by the stickiness of the surface. Stickiness, on the other way, was determined by the cooked rice\'s moisture content and adherent solid content (Islam et al., 2001).\r\nSpringiness, Gumminess and Chewiness. As the rice grains are dragged away, the springiness (mm) results correspond to how much they are expanded against the surface contact. The gumminess associate with the quantity of energy required to disintegrate the rice grains to the point where they can be swallowed is governed by the cohesiveness of the cooked rice. Chewiness is a measurement of how much energy it takes to chew rice grains to the point where they can be swallowed (Bhat & Riar, 2017). As indicate in the Table 5 springiness, gumminess and chewiness for the control sample was recorded to be 0.84, 106.8 and 90.6 g respectively. Whereas the optimum pressure parboiled treatment sample was observed to be 0.39, 72.40 and 29.5 g respectively.\r\nE. Changes in Nutritional qualities of raw and pressure parboiled Karuppukavuni rice\r\n(Balbinoti et al., 2018) stated that parboiling rice can boost the amount of biological components in it, making it more nutritious. Proteins, lipids, fibers, and ash levels all increased significantly after parboiling in Table 6. In this study fat, fiber and ash negatively affected by the pressure parboiling process. Whereas, the protein content increases slightly in the pressure parboiled rice from 9.19 gram of protein content of non-parboiled sample to 11.23 gram. The optimized treatment increased minimum amount the protein of 9.77 g. This agree with the statement given in (Rocha‐Villarreal et al., 2018) that when compared to untreated grains, the heating temperature and duration parameters enhanced protein content marginally. Higher temperature and pressure while steaming have been linked to oil globule leaching and breaking. The fat content of control sample was 5.89 g which is further decreased during the pressure parboiling process from 5.70g to 2.85 g. The fiber content also reduced significantly during pressure parboiling from 1.04 g for raw rice to 0.90 g for parboiled rice. Rice\'s crude fat and crude fiber contents may have decreased as a result of unattached oil particles leaking out during hydration through the rice husk\'s palea and lemma (processed leaves) (Chavan et al., 2018). There is no significant difference (p>0.05) in the total carbohydrate content of non-parboiled and parboiled rice. The ash content of control rice sample suggests that temperature has a substantial impact on the ash composition available with no significant difference (p>0.05). The finding demonstrates that the ash content of pressure parboiled rice has gradually increased. As the increase in exposure duration of paddy to temperature showed an increase in ash content. This agrees with the statement given by Chukwu & Oseh (2009) reported increase in temperature positively effect on parboiling. The ash value of raw sample was 1.88% which is further increased during parboiling according to duration of temperature subjected to paddy up to 2.78%, whereas the optimum treatment gives ash of 1.95%.\r\n','Koperundevi Venkatesh, Arunasree Asokan and Bhuvana Shanmugham (2022). Effect on Physio-Chemical, Textural and Nutritional qualities of Pressure parboiled karuppukavuni rice (Oryza sativa L. indica). Biological Forum – An International Journal, 14(3): 274-281.'),(5267,'136','Ultrasound Treated-Freeze dried white finger millet-based probiotic beverage powder: Effect on proximate, colorimetric, and technological properties','L. Meena, B. Malini, T. S. Byresh, C.K. Sunil*, Ashish Rawson and N. Venkatachalapathy','48 Ultrasound Treated-Freeze dried white finger millet-based probiotic beverage powder Effect on proximate, colorimetric, and technological properties Vidhya Raja.pdf','',1,'Finger millet is one of the common millets having numerous health benefits. It is rich in calcium and contains various functional compounds with anti-tumorigenic, antimicrobial, anti-diabetic, and antioxidant properties. White finger millet KMR 340 is one of the new varieties of finger millet developed in Mandya\'s zonal agricultural research station. Probiotic foods are majorly available as milk products. Owing to its high cholesterol level and lactose intolerance, consumer\'s preference for non-dairybased probiotic beverages is increasing now-a-days and that paved the way for the development of probiotic beverages using white finger millet. Since, heat treatment deteriorates the product quality, the application of non-thermal technology is gaining importance in recent days. The present work investigates the effect of ultrasound treatment and freeze drying on white finger millet-based probiotic beverage powder and analyzes its effect on proximate composition, color values, and technological properties. Technological properties like the Carr index and Hausner ratio did not show any significant difference in the obtained results. Though colorimetric properties showed a significant difference between control and the US-treated samples, it did not impact its visual appearance. The obtained results could help the food processors to find its application in the development of millet-based beverage premix and in designing the storage structures.','White finger millet, Ultrasound, Colorimetric and technological properties, Probiotic','In the present study, US treated-Freeze dried WFMPB powder significantly changed color values. No significant difference was observed for CI and HR values. The proximate composition of control and US treated samples had slight variations. Flow characteristics of CI and HR for control and treatment after inoculation was found to have passable flowability. In comparison, CI and HR for treatment before inoculation resulted in poor flowability. In future, the flowability of treatment before inoculation could be improved by using suitable processing techniques, so that, the developed product could exploit its application in designing storage structures.','INTRODUCTION \r\nMillets are the major food in developing countries. In general, the production and consumption of millets in developing countries is more than 97%. According to estimates, the area of land used for millets cultivation has decreased worldwide by about 25.71% between 1961 and 2018. Furthermore, from 1961 to 2018, millet productivity increased globally by 36%, from 575 kg/ha to 900 kg/ha. Except for Africa, the average statistics from the previous 58 years showed that millet output decreased globally. In the case of India, millet production peaked in the 1980s and then progressively declined as a result of an increasing reduction in the area that is cultivated. India produces the most millets, accounting for 37.5% of the total global output, followed by Sudan and Nigeria. The year between 2011 and 2017 had maximum import and export values of millets in terms of trade (155.26 and 127.60 million US dollars, respectively). Several factors may contribute to the ongoing decline in the area for millets crop including relocating millets for other crops, alterations in dietary preferences, assurance of irrigation infrastructure, and guaranteed returns from important commercial crops (Meena et al., 2021).\r\nMillets are often grown in soils that are too deficient in sustaining any other crop. They are different from other cereal crops because of their short growing season and have a high tolerance to drought, poor nitrogen application, and temperature variations. Millets are year-round, all-season crops that provide a variety of security (food, fodder, nutrition, and ecology), making them the crops of agricultural security that are available at reasonable prices (Malathi et al., 2016). Sorghum, Pearl millet, Finger millet, Foxtail millet, little millet, Kodo millet, Proso millet, and Barnyard millet are the major millets grown in India. Among these, finger millet (Eleusine coracana L.) is rich in calcium, and it is almost ten times higher than that of rice or wheat (Malathi et al., 2016). It belongs to the Poaceae family. It has some of the functional components like catechin, gallocatechin, epicatechin, epigallocatechin, vitexin, myricetin, quercetin, apigenin, etc., having anti-tumorigenic, anti-diabetic, antimicrobial, and antioxidant properties (Thakur & Tiwari 2019). White finger millet (WFM) KMR 340 is a new variety developed in a zonal agricultural research station in Mandya, India. It has a high level of calcium (392 mg/100 g), magnesium (144 mg/100 g), protein (11.98 g/100 g), and fiber (4.2 g/100 g) (Navyashree et al., 2021).\r\nWhen given to a host in sufficient quantities, live microorganisms that positively affect their health are known as probiotics. To exhibit therapeutic effects, the microorganisms must be alive and present in large quantities, often more than 108 to 109 cells per gram of products at the moment of ingestion. Probiotics must also be able to live in the challenging environment of the human gastrointestinal tract (Kandylis et al., 2016). Though most probiotics are dairy-based, several concerns like the emergence of vegetarianism and veganism, the allergy risk associated with dairy products, and customer preferences for diverse, unique flavors pave the way for developing non-dairy-based probiotic beverages (Rasika et al., 2021).\r\nUltrasound (US) is an emerging technology that works on the cavitation phenomenon, which causes the formation, expansion, and collapse of gas bubbles leading to various chemical and mechanical effects. In food fermentation, low-frequency ultrasound (20–50 kHz)enhances mass transfer and cell permeability, resulting in increased process efficiency and output rates (Ojha et al., 2017). Therefore, US is applied to analyze its effect on fermentation of the developed beverage.\r\nKnowledge of the technological properties like bulk density, tapped density, Carr index and Hausner ratio help to determine the flow characteristics of the powder (Shishir et al., 2014). At the same time, the colorimetric properties of freeze-dried white finger millet-based probiotic beverage (WFMPB) powder gives information about the level of perception. Thus, the present work is performed to determine the effect of ultrasound treatment and freeze drying on the WFMPB powder in terms of its proximate, technological and colorimetric properties. The results obtained in this study help the food processors to find its application in the development of millet-based beverage premix and in designing the storage structures.\r\nMATERIALS AND METHODS\r\nA. Materials\r\nWFM (KMR 340) was obtained from V.C Farm, Mandya, Karnataka, India. Lactobacillus rhamnosus GG NCDC 347 was acquired from the National Dairy Research Institute (NDRI), Karnal, India for inoculation. \r\nB. Sample preparation\r\nPreparation of WFMPB. Cleaned millets were soaked in water and then germinated at 30 °C for 48 h. The sprouted millets were dried and milled using a hammer mill (Almech Enterprise, Coimbatore, India) to obtain germinated millet flour (GMF). It was then sieved with a sieve having a mesh size of 250 µm, and flour was collected and stored in high-density polyethylene (HDPE) bags at the refrigerated condition for further analysis. The probiotic culture was revived as per the protocol given with the ampoules.\r\nA suspension of GMF (14% w/v), and sugar (5% w/v) were mixed in 100 mLwater and sterilized. It was then inoculated with L. rhamnosus having a cell density of 6 log CFU/mL. Then the mixture was fermented at 37 °C in a shaker incubator (Scientech, New Delhi, India) till it attained the pH value of 4.6 (Medve & Lipt 2008). The pH was measured using a pH meter (Horriba scientific, Japan). A sample without US treatment was taken as a control.\r\nThe mixture was treated with the US at two different conditions. In the first condition, the mixture was treated with the US after the inoculation of probiotic culture (after inoculation). In the second case, the mixture was treated with US and then inoculated with probiotic culture (before inoculation). For after inoculation, the amplitude and treatment time of 41.42% and 2.63 min were used, respectively. On the other hand, before inoculation treatment, the amplitude and treatment time of40.11% and 11.09 min were used, respectively. After treating the samples with US, the mixture was inoculated with L. rhamnosus and fermented at 37 °C. After fermentation, WFMPB was freeze-dried and the powder was collected. Freeze dryer (Lyophilizer 80 °C, Lark innovative fine teknowledge, Chennai) was used to dry the samples. The freeze-dried WFMPB powder was stored in HDPE bags at 4 °C. Freeze-dried WFMPB powder was used for analyzing color and technological properties.\r\nProximate analysis. WFMPB powder was analyzed for moisture, fat, fiber, ash, protein and carbohydrate content according to AOAC 2019 methods. \r\nMoisture content. The sample\'s moisture content was determined according to AOAC 2019, 931.04 method. 2 g of sample was taken in a petriplate and kept in a hot air oven for 3 h at 105°C. Moisture content was calculated using the following formula.\r\nMoisture (%) = \r\nAsh content. The ash content was determined according to AOAC 2019, 923.03 methods. 2 g of sample was taken in the pre-weighed crucible and then placed in a muffle furnace for 5 h at 600 °C. After 5 h, the crucible was taken and allowed to cool in a desiccator. The crucible and its content were weighed.\r\nAsh (%) = \r\nFat content. The fat content of the samples was estimated using Soxhlet extraction methods (AOAC 945.38). 2 g of sample was weighed into an oil flask. About 100 mL of n-hexane was added into oil flask and kept in Soxhlet apparatus for extraction. After the extraction period, contents in the flask were evaporated to dryness in a hot air oven. The total fat content of the samples was measured using the following equation.\r\nFat (%) = \r\nProtein estimation. The protein content was determined by kjeldahl method. The samples were digested with H2SO4 in the presence of a digestion mixture for 3-4 h until the solution turns colorless. Upon the addition of 40% NaOH, ammonia was released from the samples during distillation, and it was then collected in a flask containing 4% boric acid. The nitrogen content of the samples was estimated by titrating it against 0.1 N HCl and methyl red was used as an indicator. \r\nProtein (%) =\r\n \r\nCrude fiber. The crude fiber was estimated according to the method proposed by Shendage et al. (2020). A 2 g of the sample that was free of moisture and fat was put into a 1000 mL beaker. In the beaker, 200 mL of a 1.25 % H2SO4 solution were added and boiled for 30 minutes. After that, it was filtered and the residue was cleaned with hot water until it became acid-free. Later, the residue was again kept in a 1000 mL beaker and heated for 30 minutes with a 200 mL solution of 1.25 % H2SO4. It was again filtered, and the residue was then put into a crucible that had already been weighed. It was dried for 24 h at 100oC until a constant weight was attained. The crude fiber was calculated using the following formula.\r\nCrude fiber (%) = \r\nTotal carbohydrate. The total carbohydrate content of the samples was estimated using difference method and its formula is given below.\r\nCarbohydrate = 100 – % (Moisture + Protein + Fat + Ash + Crude fiber)\r\nColorimetric properties. The color values of freeze-dried WFMPB powder was determined using Hunter Lab Colorimeter (Hunter Associates Laboratory, Reston, VA). L* indicates lightness to darkness (0 to 100), a* indicates redness to greenness (+ to -), and b* indicates yellowness to blueness (+ to -) and these values were noted. Total color difference (ΔE), chroma (ΔC), hue angle, and whiteness index (WI) were determined using the following equations (Navyashree et al., 2021). \r\n∆E= √(〖(L-L*)〗^2+〖(a-a*)〗^2+〖(b-b*)〗^2)\r\n\r\n∆C= √(〖(a*)〗^2+〖(b*)〗^2 )\r\nHue angle=tan^(-1) b/a\r\nWI= 100-√((100-L*)+〖a*〗^2+〖b*〗^2 )\r\n\r\nC. Technological properties\r\nBulk and tapped density. Bulk density and tapped density of freeze-dried WFMPB powder were determined as per the method described by Shishir et al. (2014). 2 g of powder were placed into a 10 mL graduated cylinder and the volume changes were noted. The mass-to-volume ratio of the sample served as a measure of the bulk density of the powder. Whereas 2 g of powder was taken in a 10 mL graduated cylinder and counting the volume after the sample was smoothly dropped 120 times, the tapped density of the samples was ascertained.\r\n \r\nFlowability. The Carr index (CI) and Hausner ratio (HR) were used to assessing the powders\' flowability (Shishir et al., 2014). Bulk and tapped densities of the freeze-dried WFMPB powder were used to compute both the CI and HR. They were calculated using the following formula.\r\n \r\n \r\nD. Statistical analysis\r\nStatistical analysis was performed usingSPSS Statistics 20 (IBM, USA). Paired t-test was used to determine the probability level of p ≤ 0.05 for significant difference. All the analyses were performed in duplicates and values were expressed as mean±standard deviation.\r\nRESULTS AND DISCUSSION\r\nA. Proximate analysis\r\nSonicated samples\' moisture and carbohydrate content did not show significant difference (p > 0.05). Whereas protein, crude fiber, fat and ash content showed significant differences (p < 0.05). The proximate composition of WFMPB and US-treated WFMPB were presented in Table 1. It shows that moisture content of control (85.27±1.50) was higher followed by before inoculation (83.28±1.38) and after inoculation (82.72±1.37) sample. US treatment slightly increased the fat content of WFMPB from 0.08% in control to 0.1% in before inoculation and 0.12% in after inoculation sample. The lower fat content values could be due to the utilization of fat as the source of energy for the germination process (Hejazi & Orsat 2016). The protein content of WFMPB decreased after US treatment when compared to control. This could be due to the variation in the proteolytic activity of L. rhamnosus during the fermentation process (Apaliya et al., 2017). The crude fiber of control was found to be 0.59±0.02, which was higher than the fiber content of before inoculation (0.52±0.01) and after inoculation (0.49±0.00) samples. The ash content of control was 2.94±1.38 which was higher than the sonication after inoculation (2.17±1.01) and before inoculation (1.47±0.70) samples. Sonication increased the carbohydrate content of after inoculation (13.60±0.30) and before inoculation sample (13.65±1.96) when compared to control (9.82±0.11). The carbohydrate content of the samples might be due to the amylolytic activity of lactic acid bacteria during the fermentation process. The obtained results were found to be inconsistent with the results reported by Shendage et al. (2020).\r\nB. Effect of US treatment on color properties\r\nColor is one of the most significant characteristics of a product that influences its acceptability in markets and among consumers. Color values exhibited a significant difference between US treated and control samples (p < 0.05). Colorimetric properties of control and US-treated samples were presented in Table 2. The L* value of US treatment after inoculation (86.03±0.14) and before inoculation (84.78±0.02) was higher than control (81.13±0.09). This might be due to the control sample\'s high-temperature treatment that resulted in the WFMPB powder browning. The redness (a*) and yellowness (b*) values of control was higher than US treatment after and before inoculation samples. High-temperature control treatment caused gelatinization of starch present in WFM flour which contributed to higher a* and b* values for control than US treated samples (Sharma et al., 2018). \r\nHue angle of all the samples was less than 90°. The hue angle of control (83.50±0.10) sample was higher followed by US treatment after inoculation (81.98±0.10) and before inoculation samples (80.37±0.04). Colors red, yellow, green, and blue are represented by hue angles of 0, 90, 180, and 270 degrees, respectively. For perception and acceptance, the hue angle is the most important factor for people with normal color vision (Ramashia et al., 2018). Since hue angle of all samples is in the range of 80, it represents that WFMPB flour is slightly yellow. Chroma indicates the intensity of the color. Chroma of control sample is higher than the US treated samples. Though the hue angle for all samples was less than 90° indicating the yellow color of WFMPB flour, the intensity of yellowness is found to be less, which could be seen from the chroma values of the samples. WI values of control and US treatment after and before inoculation samples were 76.16±0.009, 84.49±0.20, and 84.22±0.01, respectively. The results for color analysis were in range with those obtained by Mohite et al. (2020).\r\nC. Effect of US treatment on technological properties\r\nBulk density and tapped density. The results found that the tapped density was higher than the bulk density in all the samples (Table 3). This could be due to the insignificant volume of voids which resulted as a consequence of external force. The tapped density of US treatment after inoculation (0.39±0.00) and before inoculation (0.35±0.01) samples showed higher values than control (0.31±0.003). Bulk density also showed a similar trend as in the case of tapped density. Rao et al. (2021)observed slightly higher values for bulk density (0.61-0.64) and tapped density (0.70-0.73) in case of microwave-treated foxtail millet flour.\r\nCarr index and Hausner ratio. CI and HR of WFMPB flour were evaluated to determine the difference between their flow ability. CI and HR of US treatment after inoculation and control samples showed no significant difference (p > 0.05). The CI value for control and US treatment after inoculation were found to be 22.5% and 23.29%, respectively. Similarly, HR values for control (1.29) and treatment after inoculation (1.30) were found to be comparable. The CI in the range of 0-25% indicates good quality powder, and the range 26-40% is of lower quality, whereas HR in the range of 1.00-1.34 and 1.35-1.6 indicates good quality and lower quality, respectively. Therefore, control and after inoculation samples fall under passable flow ability. However, before inoculation, samples showed poor flow ability, as indicated by their CI (29.16%) and HR (1.41) values. This demonstrates strong particle cohesion, which causes the particles to withstand the tapping force. This could be due to the grinding of dried WFMPB, which created fine particles and increased the specific surface area. Through the creation of active binding sites, particle interactions and interparticle bonding may be enhanced. Industrial silos used to store cohesive powders are driven with mechanical and pneumatic assistance for continuous discharge to prevent arching and ratholing. However, free-flowing powders can be passed without using any external means (Sengar et al., 2022).','L. Meena, B. Malini, T. S. Byresh, C.K. Sunil*, Ashish Rawson and N. Venkatachalapathy (2022). Ultrasound Treated-Freeze dried white finger millet-based probiotic beverage powder: Effect on proximate, colorimetric, and technological properties. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 14(3): 282-287.'),(5268,'136','Effect of pre-treatments on proximate composition, protein extraction yield and extraction rate of Superworm protein ','Pranav Wadje, Akshay R. Patil and R. Meenatchi*','49 Effect of pre-treatments on proximate composition, protein extraction yield and extraction rate of Superworm protein Vidhya Raja.pdf','',1,'Superworm (Zophobas morio) is the larval stage of darkling beetle which is rich in protein and fat. Three different drying methods, Viz., freeze drying, hot air oven drying, and microwave-assisted hot air oven drying, were used as a pre-treatment for insect drying. Freeze drying was the most suitable method as both extraction rate and the yield of superworm protein were higher. In freeze drying, the least damage is caused to protein content compared to the other two drying methods. The proximate analysis was performed for freeze-dried insect powder and extracted superworm protein powder, which showed the total protein content of superworm insect is 53.32±0.54%, and extracted protein from superworm insect has a protein content of 85.29±0.13%. Along with protein fat content of superworm (40%) was significantly higher. Colour values L* a* b* were positive for freeze-dried superworm powder and extracted protein. Extracted superworm protein (L*79.02±0.00) has a lighter colour than freeze-dried superworm insect powder (L*43.26±0.01). Water activity for freeze-dried superworm insects and freeze-dried superworm insect protein 0.41 and 0.21. Lower values of water activity have marked the shelf stable nature of freeze-dried insect powder as well as superworm protein powder. The major challenge for this study was the procurement of superworm larvae and maintaining them in a proper atmosphere. Superworm can be an excellent alternative protein source that can be used to combat protein energy malnutrition worldwide. ','Superworm, Protein, Extraction yield, Extraction rate, Water activity','Among the three different drying methods used, freeze-drying was most suitable method for insect drying because protein suffers the minimum damage, also, protein extraction rate and extraction yield were higher for the freeze-dried sample. Protein extraction yield and protein extraction rate were higher because of the higher protein content of insects as well as extracted protein from superworm insects dried using freeze drying. Superworm larvae are higher in lipid content. Extracted protein has a lighter shade as compared to freeze-dried insect powder. Since in colour analysis of superworm powder and superworm protein powder all the values of L*, a*and b* were positive, all the colour shades lie in the light, yellow and red shades respectively.aw is a crucial factor in monitoring hygroscopic goods or materials. Since the aw of the freeze dried superworm and freeze dried superworm protein powder is less. As aw for both the samples is less than 0.7, they can be stored at ambient room temperature. Nutrients such as protein and fat are rich in superworm. For further characterization studies freeze-drying pretreatment can be used as protein suffers least damage as compared to other drying method. Further characterization study can be done a superworm oil as it is rich in oil content. ','INTRODUCTION \r\nEntomophagy is the practice of consuming insects (Niveditha et al.,2021). The term \"entomos\" means insect and “phagein” means to eat (Parvez, 2017). By the year 2050, there will be around 9 billion people on the planet. We must find new protein sources to fulfil this population\'s increasing protein energy needs (Iseppi et al., 2021). According to FAO, there are around 821 million malnourished people around the globe. In such instance, food insecurity may emerge, andinsects might serve as an alternate food source for the whole population.(Yen, 2009) showed the importance of sustainable harvesting of edible insects to use as food. To prevent the unfavourable environmental impacts of livestock production, insects can be used as an alternative source of proteins for humans. Depending on the kind and developmental stage of the insect, the dry matter protein content ranges from 20 to 76%. Large variations in fat content (dry matter of 2 to 50%) occurs depending on developmental stage in superworm larvae will have more fat content than adult. \r\nSuperworm is often raised for use as food for fish, birds, and reptiles. Superworm is a member of the Tenebrionidae giant beetle family which also includes red flour beetle, confused flour beetle, and other stored commodity insects, including Alphitobius diaperinus, and Tenebrio molitor (Coleoptera: Tenebrionidae). Protein and fat are two nutrients abundant in superworm larvae. Superworm has a protein content of 47-48% (Kulma et al., 2020). Although listed among storage insects, Z. morio is associated with only one stored commodity, i.e., wheat flour (Rumbos & Athanassiou 2021). The larvae are yellow with dark brown ends on the front and back. Their exoskeleton is cylindrical, heavily sclerotized, and conically constricted between the seventh and ninth abdominal segment bases. At 25 °C, they may hatch after 8 days and grow to a maximum length of 55 mm. The number and length of larval instars are density-dependent, meaning that they vary depending on whether larvae are kept in groups or isolated environments. When maintained apart, larvae pupate between 11 and 18 instars; however, most pupations occur between 16 and 17 moults. This species fails to pupate under crowded conditions, despite continuing larval moults till death is one of its most significant traits. The rate of pupation slows down as larval density rises. This effect is ascribed to the mechanical stimulation caused by interactions between larvae rather than being pheromone-mediated or produced by auditory or visual stimuli (Rumbos & Athanassiou 2021). According to Australian researchers, the solution to recycling plastic may lie in superworms that eat polystyrene (Sun et al., 2022). Several recent studies (Alves et al., 2021; Abd Rahman Jabir, 2012; Rumbos & Athanassiou 2021) have disclosed better results of superworm meal on the fishes as compared to traditional fish meal. Recently, the superworms whole mitochondrial genome was sequenced, indicating that researchers are becoming more interested in this species (Bai et al., 2019).\r\nThe present study has been undertaken to estimate the effect of different pre-treatments on proximate composition, protein extraction yield and protein extraction rate of superworm. \r\n\r\nMATERIALS AND METHODS \r\nThe live superworm larvae were purchased from mealfarm® Bengaluru, Karnataka, India. Superworm larvae were held at – 4°C for 1 hour to kill them, followed by drying with three different methods. \r\n1. Freeze drying (condenser temperature 6.6°C, sample temperature -13.4°C, and vacuum at 1.100Pa). \r\n2. Drying at 70°C in a hot air oven for 48 hours. \r\n3. Microwave-assisted hot air drying (60°C, 60 min, 3 kilowatts). \r\nDried insects were pulverized to powder it. The powdered insects were stored at 4°C in the refrigerator. Powdered insects were defatted using n-Hexane as a solvent before protein extraction. \r\nA. Method of Protein Extraction \r\nB. Extraction rate and Extraction yield \r\nThe extraction yield and rate of protein were calculated using the following formulae (Zhao et al., 2016).\r\nExtraction yield (EY) = (Weight of extract )/(Weight of sample )×100\r\n\r\nExtraction Rate of protein =( Protein content in extract)/(Protein content in sample)×EY\r\nC. Proximate Analysis\r\nAnalysis of protein content was done for all three pre-treatments as it is necessary to calculate protein extraction yield and protein extraction rate. Remaining proximate analyses such as ash, crude fibre, fat, carbohydrates, colour and water activity were only done for pre-treatment with higher protein content, protein extraction yield and protein extraction rate. \r\nThe proximate composition of superworm larvae for protein, ash, crude fibre, fat, colour, and water activity was tested in triplicates based on the Association of Official Analytical Chemists international method (AOAC, 2019).\r\nMoisture content (934.01) was measured using the hot air oven technique by drying a 5g sample at 105°C for 4 hours. Protein content was evaluated using the Kjeldhal method (984.13) and a utilized nitrogen conversion factor of (6.25 × N) (Gosukonda et al., 2020). Ash (942.05) was measured by burning the dry sample (5g) in a muffle furnace at 650°C for 2 hours. For fat (920.39) estimated 2g sample was obtained in a thimble put in the Soxhlet apparatus, and N-Hexane (60-65°C) was used as a solvent. Crude fibre (962.09) was measured by processing the defatted dry sample (2 g) washed in 1.25% HCl and 1.25% NaOH followed by filtration and final residue collection and weighing. Carbohydrate content was determined by Moisture, ash, crude protein and crude fat were subtracted from 100 to get the total carbohydrate (Wadje & Meenatchi 2022). \r\nD. Analysis of colour values \r\nThe colour parameters (L*, a*, b*) of superworm powder were calculated using a Hunter lab colourimeter (ColorFlex EZ 45/0-LAV, Hunter Associates Laboratory Inc., Virginia, USA). It operates on the principle of gathering light and measuring energy from a sample that has been reflected over the visible spectrum. Each time, the tools were standardized with colours like white and black. Samples were scanned to determine the L*, a* and b* where L* indicates lightness and darkness, a* indicates red (+a) and green (-a), b* indicates yellow (+b) and blue (-b) (Shashikumar et al., 2021).\r\nE. Analysis of water activity \r\nThe ratio of the vapour pressure of the water above the sample to the vapour pressure of pure water at the same temperature is known as water activity (aw) at a specific temperature. It is a significant parameter that provides information regarding products stability, quality and microbial safety. The aw was determined by using dew point water activity meter (AquaLab 4TE, Inc. Pullman, WA, USA) with ± 0.001 sensitivity. The setup determines the dew point temperature of the sample precisely using an infra-red beam which is being focused on tiny mirror. Water activity of the sample was measured by placing inside the water activity meter in a disposable cup and the chamber was closed and set aside to equilibrate. The values displayed digitally were recorded.\r\nF. Statistical Analysis\r\nAll the analysis for proximate composition, colour values, water activity and effect of drying method on protein content of superworm were performed in triplicates as Mean±Standard deviation. Effect of different drying methods on protein content of superworm insect were analysed using ANOVA in the (Minitab 18.1 statistical analysis tool software USA). Where results show the significant interaction between the samples and significant main effects at p<0.05. A comparison was done with post hoc approach Tukey with a confidence level of 95% for the analysis. \r\nRESULTS AND DISCUSSION \r\nA. Effect of pre-treatments on protein content\r\nThe protein content of insects dried using the freeze-drying method showed the highest amount of protein content (53.32±0.54%) as compared to hot air oven (50.95±0.72%) and microwave-assisted hot-air oven drying (51.49±0.08%). There was no significant difference between the protein content of insects dried using hot-air oven drying and microwave-assisted hot air oven drying. Whereas significant difference was there in the protein content of insects dried using freeze-drying and hot air oven, microwave assisted hot-air oven drying. The protein content of extracted superworm protein for the freeze-drying, hot air oven drying, and microwave-assisted hot air oven drying were 85.29±0.13%, 80.62±0.44%, and 84.08±0.09%, respectively. For all three pre-treatments there was a significant difference in the protein content of extracted superworm protein. The freeze-drying method is recommended for the high protein and high fat-containing products (Hu et al., 2013). Protein denaturation occurs while drying the high protein-containing food products using the hot air oven drying method. Slightly better results for protein content are seen in microwave-assisted hot air oven drying. The microwave drying technique improves colour, vit B2 and mineral content more effectively. Compared with hot oven drying, microwave drying requires a short processing time. Microwave drying will also improve the economic weight of the insects (Bawa et al., 2020). Microwave consumes less energy, time and retains both nutritional and sensory attributes, provides pleasant aroma and bioactive components. Combined with the hot air oven drying technique, it gives better efficacy. During preliminary studies, drying at 60°C for 60 minutes, 3 kilowatts gave the best results with desirable colour and aroma. It was the maximum voltage that the microwave-assisted hot air dryer could attain.\r\nFreeze drying method yielded highest protein content. Also, when dried with freeze-drying protein suffers minimum damage. The extracted protein should be undamaged to the extent possible when it is further characterised. A literature survey found that when a substance higher in protein dried using hot-air oven or microwave-assisted hot air oven drying, the protein in it undergoes structural damage. \r\nB. Protein Extraction Yield and Extraction Rate \r\nThe protein extraction yield and protein extraction rate depend on protein content of extracted protein and material from which protein is to be extracted. To increase the protein content all the samples were defatted using n-Hexane as a solvent (Choi et al., 2017). To assess the extraction process\'s efficiency and the product\'s economic worth, yield value calculation is a crucial factor (Haryati et al., 2019). The extraction yield (%) and extraction rate (%) of all three samples were calculated and presented in Fig. 1. The protein extraction yield was high in freeze-dried samples (43.73%). The reason may be due to the use of low-temperature proteins remain undamaged and because of alkali at low concentration proteins remained unhydrolyzed. Protein yield results of yellow mealworm (50.6%) were higher than superworm (Zhao et al., 2016). Next to freeze drying highest protein extraction yield was found in the microwave-assisted hot air oven dried sample (42%) and the least protein extraction yield was found in the hot air oven dried sample (40%). Slight denaturation of the samples while pre-treating the sample lowers the nutritional value. In the hot air oven dried sample denaturation of thermally labile, oxidation sensitive nutrients, flavours and biologically active molecules occurs. While they are retained in microwave treated sample which resulted in high sample yield as compared to the hot air oven dried sample. \r\nThe rate of protein extraction was found to be highest in the freeze-dried sample (69.94%). The extraction rate of protein in freeze-dried and microwave-assisted hot air oven dried sample (68.55%) were more or less similar. But the protein extraction rate in hot air oven dried sample (63.29%) is less because the proteins suffer damage. The extraction yield and rate for freeze drying pre-treatment were higher because the protein content of both freeze-dried insects and extracted superworm protein was higher. \r\nC. Proximate analysis \r\nAnalysis of proximate composition is regarded as a principle criterion in determining the nutritional value and quality of the sample (Ogunyinka et al., 2017). The proximate composition of superworm insect and extracted superworm protein were analyzed in triplicates and the results are represented in Table 2. \r\nCrude protein content in the superworm insect is 53.32±0.54%, and the crude protein content of protein extracted from superworm is 85.29±0.13%. As protein content in superworm and protein extracted from superworm insect is higher, both resulted in a high protein extraction yield and protein extraction rate. The protein content of superworm is more than T. molitor, Bombyx mori, Apis mellifera, Hermetia illucens. Some insects which have higher protein content than superworm are A. diaperinus, Acheta domesticus, Blaptica dubia etc., (Ghosh et al., 2016; H et al., 2021; Igual et al., 2020; Lam et al., 2021; Roncolini et al., 2020; Soares Araújo et al., 2019; Wu et al., 2021). Superworm larvae are high in protein content as compared to adult darkling beetle. Larvae are more convenient for extracting protein than adults because adults will have more chitin content (Kaya et al., 2016) and chitin interferes with the protein extraction. Superworm insect has a very high fat content (40%). \r\nProtein extracted from superworm has less fat content (2.01±0.46) as it is extracted from defatted superworm powder. Silkworm pupae, one of the most popular edible insect has oil content of only 8%, which is much less than the superworm insect (Longvah et al., 2011). Further studies can be done to undiscover the potential of superworm oil. Superworm oil has low antioxidant activity and almost negligible antibacterial activity (Pumnuan et al., 2019). Iodine value, peroxide value and free fatty acid value of superworm oil will give the idea about its suitability to be used in the food and feed systems. Crude fibre (2.30±0.15) and carbohydrate content (1.15±0.03) of superworm protein was negligible. \r\nD. Analysis of Colour Value \r\nColour plays a vital role in the evaluation and preference of food. In sensory analysis, most easily evaluated characteristic is colour. Colour values were measured to differentiate the impact of different pre-treatments and to estimate the colour of superworm powder and superworm protein. Colour values can be used to estimate the colour pigment content of extracted edible insect protein. L* is for lightness and other two-colour channels a*and b*are known as chromaticity layers. Positive values of L*, a*and b* depict lightness, yellow and red hues. Whereas negative values of L*, a*and b* show Dark, blue and green shades. Since L* of superworm insect powder is 43.26±0.01 which shows the darker colour of superworm powder but L* value of superworm protein is 79.02±0.00 which shows extracted protein has a very light shade. The values for superworm insect powder and superworm protein showa slightly darker shade. As a* values are slightly on the positive side it depicts the slight reddish tint for both the superworm powder (5.31±0.008) and superworm protein (2.24±0.008). Value of b* is positive for both samples, which shows a slightly yellowish hue of superworm powder (13.97±0.00) and superworm protein (17.13±0.008). ΔE (Total colour differences), represent the magnitude of colour difference between the samples. ΔE value for superworm insect powder and superworm protein powder is 0.03. As ΔE values are negligible, total colour difference is also negligible for both samples. (Bellary et al., 2016) states that samples having ΔE > 30 the colour difference is perceivable to the naked eye. ΔE value between the superworm insect powder and superworm protein powder is 17.14 which marks the huge colour difference between the two. The colour difference might be due to various pre-treatments given such as defatting, grinding, freeze-drying. Generally, colour of insect based product will be decided by pigments such as melanin (WittKopp & Beldade 2009) and chitin (Battampara et al., 2020). Colour values are dependent on pH conditions, protein aggregation and colour pigment(Atkinson et al., 1973). Colour values of both freeze-dried superworm powder and superworm protein were calculated and represented in Table 3. \r\nE. Analysis of water activity (aw)\r\naw is the measure of free water present in the product. aw deals with the water not bound to any cell component and is available for various microbial growth and chemical reactions. Water activity plays a fundamental role in assessing the stability of raw or processed food products. In freeze-dried products, aw will be reduced to a much lower extent (less than 0.5), which limits food spoilage and improves food safety by reducing microbial growth rate, chemical and enzymatic reactions. The aw of superworm dried using freeze-drying and powdered subsequently showed aw of 0.47±0.00. The aw of precipitated protein pellets and freeze-dried subsequently showed aw of 0.21±0.00. aw less than 0.7 shows that it may have longer shelf life at ambient temperatures and is termed safe moisture content (Jovanovich et al., 2003). The aw of superworm protein is higher than whey protein isolate sample is 0.13 (Erdem & Kaya 2021), chickpea protein isolate is 0.179 (Tontul et al., 2018) but lower than pea protein isolate, which is 0.6 (Mehle et al., 2020). The aw of superworm protein is similar to soya protein 0.22 (Mehle et al., 2020). aw of both the samples were less than 0.7, So we can conclude that both have a longer shelf life at ambient temperature.\r\n','Pranav Wadje, Akshay R. Patil and R. Meenatchi (2022). Effect of pre-treatments on proximate composition, protein extraction yield and extraction rate of Superworm protein. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 14(3): 288-294.'),(5269,'136','Radiofrequency Assisted Disinfestation of Caryedon serratus in Peanuts','Karuna Ashok Appugol, Irengbam Barun Mangang, Vidhya Lakshmi A.,\r\nand Loganathan Manickam*\r\n','50 Radiofrequency Assisted Disinfestation of Caryedon serratus in Peanuts KARUNA APPUGOL.pdf','',1,'Peanut is an important oilseed and rich source of nutrients. The peanuts seed are stored as pods and seeds for further processing to extract oil or for edible purposes. One of the major concerns of the peanut industry is the contamination of peanuts with insects and microorganisms. Hence, post-harvest management is of major importance for maintaining the quality of the products from the peanut. The chemical fumigants have raised toxicity issues in grains. It is evident that the safety of food materials depends on the creation and application of novel disinfestation techniques. In this study, pest management in peanuts using Radio frequency (RF) technology is being investigated. The infested peanuts were exposed to RF to the selected electrode heights of 230 and 250 mm with conveyor speeds of 2.5, 5, 7.5, 10, and 12.5 m/h for each electrode height. The lethal time for 50 (LT50) and 99 percent (LT99) mortality was determined for the egg and adult stages of Caryedon serratus. The electrode height of 230 mm showed the least LT50 and LT99 of 5.51 and 14.22 minutes respectively egg stage. Similarly, the least LT50 and LT99 of 3.01 and 11.60 minutes respectively for the adult stage was observed. Researchers are tackling challenging issues linked to preventing dielectric breakdown and thermal runaway heating from hot spots. Therefore, to prevent breakdown, the electrode gaps, the material of the sample holder, and all the specifications like voltage and ampere were selected wisely. Hence, RF technology can be considered as one of the managements of peanut insects.','Peanut, Radiofrequency, Mortality, Caryedon serratus, Disinfestation','Peanuts are economically and culturally important throughout the world because they are the primary raw material for peanut oil and ethnic foods such as peanut chikki, masala peanut, and roasted salted peanuts in India. Therefore, post-harvest pest management is of utmost importance. RF technology is an alternative technology to chemical fumigation to reduce the toxic chemicals entering the food. The current investigation proves that RF is a novel thermal technology that provides a promising alternative for the disinfestation of many food commodities.','INTRODUCTION\r\nPeanut (Arachis hypogaea L.) is a cheap, nutrient-dense, and frequently grown crop that produces one of the most significant edible oils in the world. As a significant source of edible oil, peanuts or groundnuts are revered in India as the \"King of Oil Seeds\" (Kanabur, 2019). Mixed glycerides make up groundnut oil, which has a high content of unsaturated fatty acids including oleic (50–65%) and linoleic acid (18 to 30 percent) (Dudekula et al., 2021). Peanuts are eaten in raw and processed forms, as well as peanut butter, confectionery, and peanut oil. Indian cuisine showcase an inclusive spectrum of culinary variety arising from India’s pluralism (Dhanshetty et al., 2021). Peanuts have received a lot of attention as a functional food (Francisco & Resurreccion 2008).\r\nOne of the major concerns of the peanut industry is the contamination of peanuts with insects, insect fragments (Torres et al., 2014), fungi, and mycotoxin (Fu et al., 2018). Groundnut postharvest losses due to insects, mould, and rodents range from 10 to 25 percent. \r\nTamarind/groundnut bruchid, Caryedon serratus (Olivier) is the main pest of peanuts found in storage godowns. Many additional minor pests like Tribolium castaneum, and Coecyra cephalonica also attack peanuts, making them unfit for consumption (Nataraja et al., 2014). Pesticides were traditionally used to control stored product pests. However, as insects develop resistance and possibility of residues in product, consumers are concerned about pesticide toxicity (Ahmed et al., 2021). Hence, non-chemical methods need to be developed for managing the insects in storage and to avoid residues in food products. The application of Radio Frequency (RF) at an optimum condition is an alternative for the management of insects in food products.\r\nIn recent years, RF is gaining a lot of importance for applications such as drying, baking, and disinfestation. The molecules inside a product positioned in an RF environment continuously reorient themselves (27 M times/s at 27 MHz) in reaction to the applied field. This is how radio frequency heating works. Because of the frictional interaction amongst the molecules, the reaction starts volumetric heating inside the entire product, which selectively heats only the product and not the air or surrounding equipment (Mahendran & Jojo 2013). RF is used to control stored-product insects through direct treatment of the food materials, resulting in a residue-free procedure of pest control through complete insect mortality. The disinfestation with RF technology is based on a lethal time of 100 percent mortality, allowing the population of insects invading stored commodities to be controlled. The RF disinfestation process involves exposing the product and the insect to alternating currents, which causes the insects to die.\r\nIt is critical to experiment with the insect’s mortality when considering RF\'s potential use in the food processing line. Hence, the investigation was planned to study the effect of RF treatment on the life stage of C. serratus (eggs and adults). \r\nMATERIALS AND METHODS\r\nA. Procurement of peanuts\r\nThe dried peanut samples with an initial moisture percent of 7.5 were obtained from the local market of Pudukkottai, Tamil Nadu. All the dirt and unwanted materials were removed. The malformed, contaminated peanuts were screened off and a collection of uniform-shaped peanuts was done. The sorted peanuts were stored in airtight containers for further analysis.\r\nB. Insect culturing\r\nThe parent adults of C. Serratus were obtained from the NIFTEM Thanjavur Storage Entomology department. About 50unsexed adults were introduced to each 500 ml glass jar containing about 100 g of susceptible peanut seeds. The containers were covered with muslin cloth to avoid suffocation and passage of insects. It was observed for 28 ± 3 days at a temperature of 28 ± 0.5 °C for the arrival of new adults. The insects used in the study were of the same age (Sewsaran et al., 2019).\r\nC. RF sterilizer\r\nThe infested peanuts were disinfested with a 10 kW RF sterilizer (40.68 MHz; Make: Lakshmi Insta 10/4) was utilized. The system consists of an applicator linked with a generator and two parallel flat plate rectangular electrodes (Fig. 3). A high voltage (5kV) alternating electric field was applied to the sample placed between the electrodes. A current of 0.5 A was required for the disinfestation.\r\nD. RF treatment for mortality assessment\r\nPeanut samples (250 g) were placed in Petri plates (200X30 mm), and eggs (20 in no’s) and adults (10 in n’s) were introduced into the Petri plate. These were then subjected to RF treatment with various combinations of electrode height and conveyor speed. The selected electrode heights were 230, and 250 mm with conveyor speeds of 2.5, 5, 7.5, 10, and 12.5 m/h for each electrode height. The time required for exposure was noted for each conveyor speed. Then the samples were cooled and stored (eggs) in plastic containers covered with muslin cloth for 60 days to investigate any emergence of adults. And to check the mortality of adults after treatment, it was kept for 24 hours for observation.\r\nE. Imaging of insect morphology before and after RF treatment\r\nThe life stages of insects were imaged using a stereomicroscope (Leica S8 APO; Make: Leica microsystems from Wetzlar, Germany) that was linked with a computing system (Fig. 4) in order to determine the changes in insect eggs and adults. The object was then observed on the computer screen by changing the focus and zoom to make it clear for observation. Later, then images were captured and saved using the software, Leica Application Suite 2.0.\r\nF. Statistical analysis\r\nThe experiential response was analysed using the Poloplus 2.0 software (LeOra Software, Petaluma, CA, USA) to calculate the Lethal Time for 50 and 99.99 percent of mortality due to dielectric treatments for both life stages. The results were interpreted by comparing the time required for mortality (Loganathan et al., 2011) of the egg and adult stages of the insect.\r\nRESULTS AND DISCUSSION \r\nA. Radiofrequency-assisted disinfestations of eggs\r\nThe infestation of C. serratus must be controlled from the egg stage itself because it reduces the quality of peanuts and results in losses of up to 73 percent (Nataraja et al., 2014). The egg stage of C. serratus was attempted to be eradicated by the RF disinfestation at various electrode heights and conveyor speed combinations with an aim to minimize the loss. The results of disinfestations of egg stage showed that eggs subjected at 230mm electrode height took minimum time to kill, with LT50 and LT99 of 5.51 and 14.22 minutes, respectively. The electrode height of 250 mm required more time with 8.40 and 49.05 minutes for the LT50 and LT99 respectively to control the insect. The temperature was recorded as 70 ± 2 ºC, fluctuating with treatment time. The electric field intensity increases as the electrode gap/ height are lowered (Jiao et al., 2014; Li et al., 2017).\r\nB. Radiofrequency-assisted disinfestations of adults\r\nThe results of disinfestations peanut with adult bruchid showed that insects subjected at 230mm electrode height took minimum time to kill, with LT50 and LT99 of 3.01 and 11.60 minutes respectively. The electrode height of 250mm required more time, taking 5.69 and 35.72 minutes for the LT50 and LT99 respectively. The temperature was recorded as 70 ± 2 ºC, fluctuating with treatment time. Because RF waves penetrate deeper than microwaves, they can heat low moisture goods more quickly (Boreddy et al., 2014; Chen et al., 2019). A similar study was performed by Tiwari et al., (2021) using various electrode height and conveyor speed combinations to investigate the mortality of Callosobruchus maculatus in blackgram (Vigna mungo) where it was reported that LT for 99.99 percent mortality (LT99.99) was ranged from 3.62 to 8.23 for the egg stage,4.70 to 7.27 min. for larvae 7.10 to 8.96 min. for pupae, and 5.40 to 7.73 min. for the adults.\r\nEarlier, Indumathi et al., (2021) reported that there was 100 percent mortality at each stage of T. castaneum lifecycle at 0.9 A of radiofrequency current and 0.5 kV for 15 minutes. T. castaneum was susceptible to RF heating in the following order: adults<larvae<pupae<eggs. Another study by Zhou & Wang (2016) showed that 100 percent mortality of S. oryzae adults was observed in different kinds of rice when treated at 50ºC for 5 minutes through 27.12 MHz with, a 6 kW RF sterilizer with 11cm electrode height. Similarly, 100 percent mortality of Mixed-age immature S. oryzae in rough brown and milled rice was observed when treated at 50ºC for 5 min with 27.12 MHz, 6 kW RF sterilizer with a 9.5cm electrode gap (Jiao et al., 2017).','Karuna Ashok Appugol, Irengbam Barun Mangang, Vidhya Lakshmi A. and Loganathan Manickam* (2022). Radiofrequency Assisted Disinfestation of Caryedon serratus in Peanuts. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 14(3): 295-301.'),(5270,'136','Establishment of in vitro Plant Regeneration Protocol for Fig (Ficus carica L.)','Vanmathi V., Aneesa Rani M.S.*, Vidhya D., Hemaprabha K. and Indu Rani C.','51 Establishment of in vitro Plant Regeneration Protocol for Fig (Ficus carica L.) Aneesa Rani M.pdf','',1,' Fig (Ficus carica L.) belongs to the family Moraceae is gaining momentum in the recent days due to its nutraceutical properties and health benefits. For farm establishment and small-scale home gardening, there is a rising demand for the plant propagules. Figs are commercially propagated by hardwood cuttings. In the present study, an attempt was made to standardize in vitro multiplication protocol for Fig. The explants were collected from the nodal part and treated with 0.5% carbendazim and 0.1 % streptomycin. Among the various sterilization treatments, treating the explants with 0.1 % HgCl2 for 3 minutes recorded the highest aseptic culture establishment (72%). Nodal explants showed the highest bud initiation (65%) response in full strength MS medium supplemented with 3.00 mgL-1 of 6 – Benzyl Aminopurine with less time for shoot initiation (20 days). The highest number of multiple shoots (4) were observed in Murashige and Skoog medium fortified with 5.00 mgL-1 6 – Benzyl Aminopurine.','Fig, nodal explants, sterilization, shoot initiation, shoot multiplication','From the present study, it is concluded that in Fig variety Brown Turkey surface sterilization of the nodal explants with 0.1% HgCl2 for 3 minutes recorded the highest aseptic culture establishment. MS medium supplemented with 3.00 mgL-1 BAP + 0.10 mgL-1 NAA produced highest shoot initiation. MS medium supplemented with 5.00 mgL-1 BAP + 0.10 mgL-1 NAA resulted in highest number of shoots, highest shoot length and leaves/shoot. Hence, this protocol can be utilized for mass multiplication of fig producing disease free and true to type planting materials for commercial production.','INTRODUCTION \r\nFig (Ficus carica L.) belongs to the family Moraceae, is a deep rooted tree and tolerant to salt and drought. The multiple fruit is botanically called Synconium and it is edible. The fruits are pear-shaped, variable in size, colour and contain lot of sugar. Vora et al. (2017) reported that fresh fruits are good source of carbohydrates (20.0 g/100g), proteins (1.02 g/100g), vitamin C (1.86 mg/100g), fibre (2.10 g/100g), calcium (104.2 mg/100g) and iron (0.725 mg/100g). Though fresh and processed figs are popular among the consumers, 90% of the fig produced is dried and consumed.\r\nThe major fig producing countries are Egypt, Turkey and Iran. In India, fig is widely cultivated in Maharashtra, Gujarat, Uttar Pradesh, Karnataka and Tamil Nadu (Sharma et al., 2022). Edible fig cultivar Brown Turkey is grown in Indian subcontinent. Its agronomical characteristics includes hardiness, drought tolerance and early commercial ripening have facilitated commercial crop expansion. The fruits are highly suitable for jams, canning and dried fruits have a good market value. Brown Turkey fruits also have exceptional quality characteristics such as fruit weight, size, firmness, flavour and sweetness. The nutritional value of this fruit also made it more appropriate for commercial production.\r\nFigs are commercially propagated by cutting, grafting and layering in which only 20-30% survive (Kumar et al., 1998; Moniruzzaman et al., 2015). In fig, mosaic virus, worms and mites are the major challenges faced (Bayoudh et al., 2015). The most significant need is the establishment of orchards with increased longevity using high quality planting material. Biotechnological tools can help to solve these issues and provides a faster way to mass propagate plants through tissue culture. In vitro propagation of Ficus species have been studied as an alternative method for large scale production of high-quality planting material (Rout et al., 2006). In vitro regeneration in fig using various explants such as shoot tips, nodal explants, leaves and apical buds have been reported (Moniruzzaman et al., 2020). Micropropagation of figs provides a number of advantages over traditional vegetative propagation methods (Boliani et al., 2019). It assures that the plants are true to type, superior in quality and disease-free planting materials are mass produced quickly irrespective of seasons (Sriskanda et al., 2021). Hence, the present study was carried out to standardize the in vitro shoot proliferation protocol for Fig.\r\nMATERIALS AND METHODS\r\nThe present study was carried out at Tissue Culture Laboratory, Department of Fruit Science, Horticultural College and Research Institute, Tamil Nadu Agricultural University, Coimbatore. The explants were collected from two years old healthy and vigorously growing twigs of Brown Turkey variety from the Arid Zone Fruit Block, HC&RI, Coimbatore.\r\nPreparation of explants and surface sterilization. Young and healthy twigs were collected from elite mother plants, the excess leaves were removed and the nodal explants of 2 cm were taken from the twigs. The excised explants were washed under running tap water thoroughly to remove the latex, adhering soil and dust particles. The nodal segments are then immersed in water containing surfactant (which increases the tissue penetration capability) polyoxyethylenesorbitan monolaurate (Tween 20) for 10 minutes and washed. The nodal explants were treated with fungicide 0.5% carbendazim for 30 minutes and bactericide 0.1 % streptomycin for 10 minutes along with two drops of polyoxyethylenesorbitan monolaurate which acts as surfactant. After this treatment, the explants were washed thoroughly in running tap water to remove the adhering chemicals completely. Under aseptic conditions in laminar air flow chamber, the explants were sterilized with ethanol for 10 seconds and then washed with sterile distilled water three times followed by sterilization with 0.1 % Mercuric Chloride for 1, 3, 5, 7 and 9 minutes and then washed thoroughly with sterile distilled water thrice to remove the chemicals completely.\r\nCulture Medium. The most effective media for in vitro propagation of fig depends on the type of explant, cultivar and growth stage (initiation, multiplication and rooting). The Murashige & Skoog (1962) medium is widely used for the in vitro production of fig (Al-Shomali et al., 2017). High salt concentrations in the MS medium enhances the tissue and cell growth. The explants were cultured on Murashige and Skoog (MS) basal medium supplemented with thiamine hydrochloride (0.1 mgL-1), pyridoxine hydrochloride (0.5 mgL-1), nicotinic acid (0.5 mgL-1), glycine (2 mgL-1), myo-inositol (100 mgL-1), sucrose (30gL-1) and antioxidants like citric acid (100 mgL-1) and ascorbic acid (100 mgL-1) were added to medium. 0.8% agar was added to the medium and pH was adjusted to 5.6 to 5.8. \r\nInoculation of explants. The sterilized nodal explants were inoculated into the culture tubes containing medium under aseptic condition in sterile laminar air flow chamber using scalpels and forceps. Fig shoots were inoculated in MS medium with 0.50, 1.00, 1.50, 2.00, 2.50and 3.00 mgL-1 BAP concentrations along with 0.2 mgL-1 NAA (Napthalene Acetic Acid) whereas MS basal medium without growth hormones served as the control. Each culture tube containing the nodal explants was tightly sealed with cotton plug and thin film. The inoculated culture tubes were kept in culture room consisting at 25±2°C temperature and 60-70% relative humidity. The culture tubes were maintained in a photoperiod of 16 hours light and 8 hours of darkness with 3000 lux light intensity using white fluorescent light. The cultures were checked periodically for bacterial, fungal contamination and phenolic exudates.\r\nShoot initiation. The initial procedure for in vitro plant establishment is initiation and the shoot initiation was observed after 20 days of inoculation. The highest shoot initiation was observed in MS media supplemented with 3.00 mgL-1 BAP. During the incubation phase, browning of explants was observed in few culture tubes and the culture tubes with contamination were removed subsequently.\r\nShoot proliferation. After four weeks of initiation, the explants were transferred to multiplication media. MS medium fortified with BAP at 4.00, 4.50, 5.00, 5.50 and 6.00 mgL-1 concentrations were used for multiplication of the explants. The sprouted explants with two or three leaves were transferred into the culture bottles containing multiplication medium. Shoots of 2.2 cm were observed after six weeks of inoculation. The shoots were later transformed into culture bottles containing different concentrations of media. Highest number of multiple shoots (4) were formed in MS medium containing 5.00 mgL-1 BAP.\r\nStatistical Analysis. The experiments were conducted in Completely Randomized Design (CRD). Data was recorded at regular intervals and data was analysed using ANOVA at 5% level of significance.\r\nRESULTS AND DISCUSSION\r\nEffect of duration of HgCl2 treatment on aseptic culture establishment in Fig. One of the major challenges faced during aseptic culture establishment is the contamination (Wolella, 2017). The highest aseptic culture establishment (72.00 %) and the lowest contamination (18%) was recorded in the nodal explants treated with 0.1% HgCl2 for 3 minutes (Table 1). The lowest aseptic culture establishment (3.00%) and the highest browning (72%) was observed in treatment S5 - 0.10 % HgCl2 for 9 minutes (Table 1). It was noticed that long exposure with the HgCl2 decreased the survival rate. In the treatment S1-0.1% HgCl2 for 1 minute contamination percentage was high but the tissue death was low. Dhage et al. (2015) reported that treatment with 0.2 % HgCl2 for 9 minutes recorded the best sterilization but the explant establishment percentage was low. Rattanpal et al. (2011) also reported that treatment of the explants with mercuric chloride (0.1%) for 4 min was the most effective surface sterilization procedure for maximum survival of explants with minimum tissue injury. The ideal concentration and duration might have lead to greater absorption of HgCl2, which sufficiently decontaminates both systematic and environmental systems. Decrease in concentration of disinfectant and duration of treatment resulted in high percentage of contamination while increase in concentration lead to browning of explants.\r\nEffect of different concentration of plant growth regulators on shoot initiation of Fig. Parab et al. (2021) also reported that BAP is a strong cytokinin inducing shoot initiation in many Ficus species. The highest shoot initiation (65%) and earlier initiation of the shoots (20 days) was recorded in MS + 3.00 mgL-1 BAP + 0.2 mgL-1 NAA. The explants cultured on Basal MS medium did not show any growth activity but the addition of BAP along with NAA resulted in direct shoot bud initiation. The lowest (4%) shoot initiation was recorded in the control basal MS without plant growth regulators and it also took the highest days for shoot initiation (65 days) (Table 2). The shoot initiation was due to the role of cytokinin BAP in breaking the apical dominance (Ali et al., 2017). \r\nEffect of different concentration of plant growth regulators on the shoot multiplication of Fig. In many fig cultivars, the role of BAP as a powerful cytokinin in shoot multiplication is recorded well. The highest number of shoots (4 shoots) and less time for shoot multiplication (45 days) was found when the shoots are supplemented with MS + 5.00 mgL-1 BAP + 0.2 mgL-1 NAA. Highest shoot length (1.9 cm) and higher number of leaves per shoot (6) was also found in this treatment. The lowest shoot proliferation (1) response was reported in the treatment M1-MS + BAP 4 mgL-1 along with 0.2 mgL-1 NAA. This treatment recorded the poorest shoot proliferation response with the highest days taken for shoot multiplication (67 days) and the lowest shoot length (1.4 cm). The results are similar with the findings of Prabhuling and Huchesh (2018) where MS medium supplemented with 1.00 mgL-1 BAP + 0.10 mgL-1 NAA resulted in highest number of shoots 3.50 (shoot/explants), shoot length (4.10 cm) and leaves/shoot (5). These results suggest that shoot proliferation in some species may be promoted by the presence of an auxin together with cytokinin. Cytokinin play an important role in stimulating cell division as well as cell elongation (Ling et al., 2018). The use of high cytokinin levels was one of the most effective methods to promote the formation of meristematic clusters. Increased shoot growth might be caused by the optimal concentration of BAP and NAA, indicating a powerful synergistic effect of BAP-NAA interaction (Al-Malki et al., 2010). \r\n','Vanmathi V., Aneesa Rani M.S., Vidhya D., Hemaprabha K. and Indu Rani C. (2022). Establishment of in vitro Plant Regeneration Protocol for Fig (Ficus carica L.). Biological Forum – An International Journal, 14(3): 302-306.'),(5271,'136','Survey on Vaccine Effectiveness and Covid- 19 Severity','Fathima Sasna Nawran*, Jit Kr Jha, Isha Ranjan, Vinita Rai and Kamarup Zamal','52 Survey on Vaccine Effectiveness and Covid- 19 Severity Fathima Sasna Nawran.pdf','',1,'To combat covid-19 many vaccine candidates have been developed and vaccination campaigns are carried out around the world. The present study was planned to compare the effectiveness of the major covid-19 vaccines used in India and Sri Lanka. A survey was conducted among the Indian and Sri Lankan people of age above 18. Two doses of Covishield, Covaxin, and Sinopharm were found to have almost the same and high vaccine effectiveness. A booster dose is important for protecting against the omicron variant. Due to the limitations in employing face-to-face methods during an active outbreak, the majority of data were collected using the google form platform.As the data was collected through a survey among people, the CT values of the RT-PCR test of the infected individuals couldn’t be collected, therefore the severity of the disease couldn’t be considered in the study. This study provides insight into the vaccination status, the vaccine effectiveness of the majorly used vaccine in both India and Sri Lanka, the risk factors of covid-19, and the further measure to be taken to combat the pandemic.','Booster dose, Covid-19, Survey, Vaccine effectiveness (VE)','Covishield, Covaxin, and Sinopharm, which are the major vaccines used in India and Sri Lanka show almost equal and very high vaccine effectiveness against Sars-CoV-2 and delta variants. Covaxin and Covishield are the main two types of vaccines administered to the Indian population. Two doses of vaccine are not effective to protect against the omicron variant. But two doses and a booster dose are highly effective against all the covid-19 variants including omicron. This result corresponds to other studies done in different regions. Factors such as age, gender, environmental factors, and comorbid conditions affect the covid-19 infection rate. The vaccination drive has been unprecedented in both scale and reach. Vaccination plays an important role in reducing the severity, death, and infection rates of different variants of covid-19. According to our study, the majority of the population is fully vaccinated. But the number of individuals who have been administered the booster dose is comparatively less. Therefore, necessary steps should be taken to vaccinate the remaining population with the booster dose to overcome the pandemic.','INTRODUCTION\r\nAs of 8th July 2022, more than 558 million people have been infected with covid-19 with more than 6 million deaths worldwide. India has reported more than 43 million cases with 525,305 deaths and Sri Lanka has reported around 664,217 cases with 16,525 deaths from the start of the pandemic till the 8th of July.(https://www.worldometers.info/coronavirus/). The covid-19 pandemic caused by the SARS-CoV-2 virus has resulted in catastrophic consequences for the economy, education, and the health care system. Mutations in the spike protein of the virus have resulted in different variants. Fig. 1 shows the main structural proteins of the Sars-CoV-2 virus.\r\nB.1.1.7(UK variant/ alpha strain), B.1.351 South African variant/beta strain), B.1.1.28.1 (Brazilian variant/ gamma strain), B.1.617.2 (delta variant), and B.1.1.529 (Omicron variant) are the variants that have become dominant (Roy et al., 2021). B.1.1.7 has 23 mutations compared to the original strain. B.1.351 has 23 mutations and 17 amino acid changes compared to the original strain. B.1.1.28.1 variant has 35 mutations and 17 amino acid changes compared to the original strain. B.1.617.2, the delta variant that led to the deadly second wave of infection in India, has 5 mutations in the spike protein. Delta variant is considered more fatal as it is 60% more transmissible and has a greater chance of secondary attack. The new variant omicron B.1.1.529 has 32 mutations on the spike protein and it is 10 times more contagious than the original variant and 2.8 times more contagious than the delta variant (Roy et al., 2021; Vasireddy et al., 2021).\r\nCoronavirus is a highly contagious virus that spreads through contact with respiratory droplets (Ahmad, 2020). Initially, preventive measures were taken to limit the spread of the virus such as wearing personal protective equipment, maintaining hand hygiene, social distancing, and quarantine (Güner et al., 2020; Ahmad, 2020). Screening of blood samples for antibodies against the covid-19 virus and detecting the viral DNA in sputum samples by polymerase chain reaction are the two main diagnosis methods available for covid-19 (Ahmad, 2020), (Zhai et al., 2020). Till now none of the drugs are approved by the US Food and Drug Administration(FDA) for the treatment of patients infected with covid-19 (Lotfi et al., 2020; Venkatasubbaiah et al., 2020). Therefore some already available drugs are recommended by the health care systems of different countries to be used for the treatment of covid- 19 (Venkatasubbaiah et al., 2020). Favipiravir, chloroquine phosphate, remdesivir, hydroxychloroquine, lopinavir/ritonavir, theaflavin, thalidomide, and arbidol are some of such medications used for treating covid-19 patients as per the suggestion of the health care system of specific countries (Salasc et al., 2022; Venkatasubbaiah et al., 2020; Havare, 2021). Fully vaccinating the majority of the world’s population is a critical step in eradicating the covid- 19 pandemic (Rashedi et al., 2022). Several vaccine candidates have been developed around the world. As of 1st April 2022, 196 vaccines were under pre-clinical development and 153 vaccines were under clinical development (https://www.who.int/publications/m/item/draft-landscape-of-covid-19-candidate-vaccines). Pfizer/BioNTech: Comirnaty(BNT162b2),Moderna: Spikevax(mRNA-1273), Janssen (Johnson & Johnson): Ad26.COV2.S, Oxford/AstraZeneca: Vaxzervria (ChAdOx1 nCoV-19), Serum Institute of India: Covishield (Oxford/ Astra Zeneca formulation), Bharat Biotech: Covaxin(BBV152), Sinopharm (Beijing): Covilo, Sinovac: CoronaVac, Serum Institute of India: COVOVAX (Novavax formulation), Novavax: Nuvaxovid(NVX-CoV2373) are some of the vaccines that are approved by WHO for emergency use(https://covid19.trackvaccines.org/agency/who/) (Ndwandwe & Wiysonge, 2021; Rashedi et al., 2022). \r\nDisapproval of specific vaccines by some countries, difficulty in supplying vaccines to poor countries, vaccine hesitancy among several people, and the emergence of new variants are the main challenges to the vaccination program (Rashedi et al., 2022; Mohamed et al., 2022). Some studies have explored the effectiveness of the currently available vaccines against different variants of covid-19 and they have shown that the effectiveness of a particular vaccine varies for different variants of the coronavirus. A population-based study in New York state has shown a decline in vaccine effectiveness, especially among the age group 65 and older with the prominence of the delta variant (Rosenberg et al., 2022). A study done in Ontario, Canada states that 2 doses of the covid-19 vaccine provide only short-term protection against symptomatic omicron infection and the third dose of covid-19 improves the protection against omicron variant and provides excellent protection against severe outcomes for both omicron and delta variants (Fell et al., 2022).\r\nA study thatwas done in England to measure the effectiveness of Oxford- AstraZeneca, and Pfizer has stated that primary immunization with 2 doses of the above vaccines provided no or limited protection against omicron variant but there was a significant increase in the effectiveness of the above vaccines againstthe omicron variant with the booster dose (Andrews et al., 2022).\r\nKnowing about the vaccination status of the population, the effectiveness of the currently available vaccines on different Sars-CoV-2 variants, and other sociodemographic and risk factors affecting the covid-19 severity is important to take further measures to control the pandemic. Many studies have been conducted to assess the effectivenessof majorly used vaccines so far. These studies have been restricted to a single country, a specific region (Singh et al., 2021), or an individual vaccine (Pramod et al., 2022). But a real-world study to compare the effectiveness of the major vaccines used among the Indian and the Sri Lankan populations along with the risk factors affecting the covid-19 infection has not been done yet. \r\nThrough this study, we sought to assess the vaccination status of the Indian and the Sri Lankan population, identify the sociodemographic characteristics and risk factors associated with covid-19 infection, and study and compare the vaccine effectiveness of themajorly used vaccine types in India and Sri Lanka and identify the best vaccine available for the prevention of covid-19 in the South Asian region by conduction a survey among the people. \r\nMATERIALS AND METHODS\r\nThis cross-country study was conducted from 06th February 2022 to 13th March 2022. The target participants were Indian and Sri Lankan adults aged 18 years and above who could read and understand English. Due to the limitations in employing face-to-face methods during an active outbreak, the data were collected using the Google Forms platform via an online questionnaire, and also a few printed forms were handedover to the people in areas where the cases were to the minimum or zero. A snowball sampling strategy was used to distribute the online questionnaire via social media (WhatsApp, Facebook, Instagram). First, few primary recipients were recruited. The participants were then asked to share the questionnaire link with individuals in their social circles (aged 18 years and above). The social media platforms were chosen because they are widely used among the Indian and Sri Lankan populations across sociodemographic characteristics.\r\nQuestionnaire on COVID-19 vaccine: efficacy. The survey consisted of 22 questions covering sociodemographic characteristics (Questions 1 to 5), information regarding COVID-19 vaccination (Questions 6 to 13), medical illnesses (Questions 14 to 19), where abouts, and employment (Questions 20 to 22). Questions 14 to 19 were only answered by those who were infected with the COVID-19 virus during the outbreak. \r\nSociodemographic characteristics (Questions 1 to 5) included Gender, Age group, Country of residence, State/ province, and zip code. Information regarding the COVID-19 vaccination (Questions 6 to 13) included the vaccination status of the individual, the number of vaccine doses received, and the date of vaccination. Questions regarding the booster dose (the vaccine type and the date of vaccination) were also included. The questions regarding the booster dose were optional considering that most people have not been provided with the booster dose at the time of the survey. Questions 14 to 19 included questions based on whether the person has been infected with the COVID-19 virus or not. If yes, then they were asked about the date of infection, the variant of the covid-19 that they were infected with,and the CT value of the RT-PCR test. The next few questionswere about their health conditionand employment.Questions 20 to 22 were regarding the location of the person during the pandemic and whether they have traveled to some other country at the time of the pandemic. \r\nData analysis. All the responses collected through the survey were entered into the Microsoft Excel sheet. Analysis of the data was done manually using the excel tools and the statistical pie charts that were created from all the responses that we received in the survey. \r\nRESULT AND DISCUSSION\r\nDemographic data. A total of 406 respondents participated in the survey. Out of them, 7 responses were rejected due to incomplete answers. 75.93% (n=303) of the participants were from India and 24.06% (n=96) of the participants were from Sri Lanka. 53.13% (n=212) were females and 46.86% (n=187) were males. Almost half of the respondents were of the age group 20-30 (49.62%, n=198) and the age group above 80 was the minority (1.7%, n=7). Figures 2, 3, and 4 show the sociodemographic data of the respondents.\r\nVaccination status. Out of the 406 respondents, 77.69% (n=310) of the respondents have been fully vaccinated with 2 doses, 7.76% (n=31) have been vaccinated with only one dose, 12.78% (n=51) have received two doses with the booster dose and 1.7% (n=7) have not been vaccinated. Out of the Indian respondents, 89.43% (n=271) have been vaccinated with 2 doses, 6.6%(n=20) have beenvaccinated with only one dose and 3.3% (n=10) have received the booster dose. Out of the Sri Lankan respondents, 40.62% (n=39) have been vaccinated with 2 doses, 11.45% (n=11) have been vaccinated with only one dose and 42.7% (n=41) have received the booster dose. Table 1 shows the vaccination status of the respondents from each country.\r\nAs of 6th July 2022, 66.5% (917.7million) of the Indian population has been fully vaccinated and7.15% (99.58 million)have been partly vaccinated with one dose and in Sri Lanka, 67.62% (14.54 million) of the population has been fully vaccinated and 11.81% (2.54 million) have been partly vaccinated with one dose as of 20th June 2022 (https://ourworldindata.org/covid-vaccinations?country=IND~LKA). The people who have received more than one dose are considered fully vaccinated. The high percentage of vaccination in our data is due to the less number of respondents and coverage of only certain geographical areas of each of the countries. The overall majority of the individuals have been fully vaccinated in both India and Sri Lanka.\r\nTypes of vaccines received. The respondents have been administered with various types of vaccines such as Covishield, Covaxin, Sinopharm, Moderna, Pfizer, and sputnik. The majority of them have received Covishield (54.88%, n=219) and AstraZeneca is the vaccine that is received by the least number of respondents (0.8%, n=3). 10 covid vaccines have been approved for use in India, but Covishield and Covaxin are the mostly used vaccines. According to the data collected from the survey, 71.61% (n=217) of the Indian population has been administered with Covishield. As of February 2022, out of the 1.8 billion doses administered in India, 1.4 billion doses wereCovishield. (https://www.statista.com/statistics/1248301/india-covid-19-vaccines-administered-by-vaccine-type/#statisticContainer).\r\nCovishield is a non-replicating chimpanzee adenovirus vaccine vector that is developed by the Serum Institute of India in collaboration with the University of Oxford, UK, and pharma giant AstraZeneca, and Covaxin is an inactivated virus vaccine that is produced by Bharat Biotech in collaboration with the National Institute of Virology and the Indian Council of Medical Research(Kumar et al., 2021). Seven covid vaccines have been approved for use in Sri Lanka. The majority of the Sri Lankan respondents have received Sinopharm (40.62%, n=39) followed by Moderna (23.95%, n=23), Pfizer (17.70%, n=17), and Sputnik (7.29%, n=7). \r\nMost people have been vaccinated with the same type of vaccine for the 1st and the 2nd dose. 80.39%(n=41) of the respondents have received Pfizer for the booster dose, and the rest were vaccinated with Covishield, Covaxin, and Sinopharm. Therefore the majority of the respondents have received Pfizer for the booster shot. Fig. 5 shows the types of vaccines received by the respondents.\r\nFactors affecting covid-19 infection. The majority of the individuals who were infected with covid-19 belong to the 20-30 age group (67.85%, n=19) followed by 40-50(17.85%, n=5), 30-40, and below 20 (7.14%, n=2). The least percentage of individuals infected with covid- 19 are in the age range of below 20 years (4%, n=2). According to the studies conducted in ten European countries about the covid 19 infection rates and age,it was found that the individuals between the age group 20- 59 have the greatest chance of infection with a percentage of 56.7, and the age group 0- 19 has the least chance of infection which is 4.3% (Sobotka et al., 2020). Increased age has been suggested as a risk factor for covid-19 infection as the disease severity, hospitalization, and the number of deaths were found to be high among senior citizens compared with the others (Starke et al., 2020).\r\nOut of the cohorts infected with covid- 19 around 57.14% (n=16) are males and 42.85% (n=12) are females. This shows the infection rate is slightly higher for men than women. Studies suggest that the reason for the lower infection rate in women is due to the presence of estradiol in high concentrations in women. Estradiol increases the expression and activity of A disintegrin and metalloprotease 17 protein, which increases the amount of ACE2(Angiotensin- Converting Enzyme 2) that blocks the entry of Sars-CoV-2 (Rashedi & Asgharzadeh, 2020). Some studies suggest that both men and women are equally susceptible to covid-19 but the severity and fatality of covid-19 are higher for men than for women (Mukherjee & Pahan 2021). Table 2 shows the information of the respondents who were infected with covid-19.\r\n6.01% (n=24) of the total respondents are working in the health care sector and 29.1% (n=7) of them were infected with covid-19. Out of the infected individuals working in the health care sector, 71.42% (n=5) were infected with covid-19 after being vaccinated with 2 doses and 28.5% (n=2) were infected with covid-19 before vaccination. Health care sector occupations are considered an environmental risk factor of covid-19 infection andhealthcare workers are considered the most vulnerable people to contact with the disease as the virus can spread quickly among the patients (Rashedi & Asgharzadeh 2020).\r\nThere are no complications reported in any of the respondents who were infected with covid-19. Severe obesity, diabetes, chronic kidney disease, dementia, HIV/AIDS, and working in health care, and primary care sectors are considered risk factors for the infection of covid-19 (Rashedi & Asgharzadeh 2020; Rod et al., 2020; Rozenfeld et al., 2020). Diabetes is one of the most critical comorbid conditions that are responsible for the severity of the covid-19 disease (Rod et al., 2020).\r\nImpact of vaccination on covid-19 infection rate. 7.0%(n=28) of the total respondents have been infected with covid-19. 53.57% (n=15) of them were infected before vaccination, 42.85% (n=12) were vaccinated with 2 doses at the time of infection and 3.57% (n=1) were infected after receiving one dose. Vaccination reduces the overall covid-19 infection rate and also decreases the adverse outcomes of covid-19 such as hospitalizations and deaths. A study conducted in the US during the third wave of the pandemic shows that a high number of covid cases were reported in areas with a lower rate of vaccination. (Moghadas et al., 2021; Cuadros et al., 2022).\r\nAccording to the data collectedfrom the survey, the vaccine effectiveness of Covishield, Covaxin, and Sinopharm after two doses is 96.34%, 96.96% and 94.75% respectively. A study done among the healthcare and frontline workers of the Indian Army shows 91.8–94.9% vaccine effectiveness for Covishield (Ghosh et al., 2021). A test-negative case-control study done in Puducherry, India has shown 49% VE with one dose and 54% VE with two doses in protecting from covid-19, and 95% VE in moderately severe disease conditions for the same vaccine (Pramod et al., 2022). \r\nCovaxin shows 81% efficiency in preventing the Sars-CoV-2 infection as reported in March 2021 and it shows 69% effectiveness towards severe covid-19 infection (Behera et al., 2022). Sinopharm shows 79% vaccine effectiveness against symptomatic covid-19 infection as reported by WHO and 100% VE against severe disease conditions (Ghiasi et al., 2021). Studies conducted in UAE during the delta outbreak show 62% VE after partial vaccination and 95% VE after the full vaccination for Sinopharm (Ghiasi et al., 2021). \r\nAccording to our study, Covishield, Covaxin, and Sinopharm show almost the same vaccine effectiveness. The VE of all three vaccines is higher than the VE reported in previous studies conducted in India and UAE. High VE in our study might be due to many factors such as the difference in the most prevalent variant, decrease in the pandemic rate during our study period, comparatively smaller number of respondents, and the collection of responses from some specific regions.\r\nAccording to the data collected, 32.14% (n=9) have been infected with SARS-CoV-2 variant, 28.27% (n=8) with deltavariant, and 10.71% (n=3) with omicron variant. Among the people who were infected with the Sars-CoV-2 variant, 33.33% (n=3) have been vaccinated with two doses of Covishield, and 11.11% (n=1) have been vaccinated with one dose of Covishield and 55.55% (n=5) have not been vaccinated. Therefore, a decrease in Sars-CoV-2 infection could be found after vaccination with two doses of Covishield.\r\nAmong the respondents who were infected with the delta variant, 62.5% (n=5) were not vaccinated, and 37.5% (n=3) were vaccinated with two doses of Covishield, Covaxin, and Sinopharm. The percentage of individuals infected with the delta variant after being vaccinated with 2 doses is much lower compared with the percentage of individuals infected before vaccination. This indicates that the covid-19 vaccines are effective against the delta variant. A study conducted in Guangdong, China during the outbreak of the delta variant states that the severity of the disease caused by the delta variant is reduced in fully vaccinated individuals compared with unvaccinated individuals (Kang et al., 2022).\r\n ChAdOx1 nCoV-19: Oxford AstraZeneca which is similar to Covishield is estimated to have a VE of 30% with a single dose and 67% with two doses against symptomatic infection with the delta variant (Lopez Bernal et al., 2021). Covaxin has also shown effectiveness against alpha, beta, delta, kappa, and zeta variants (Edara et al., 2022). \r\nAmong the respondents of the survey, all the individuals who were infected with the omicron variant have been vaccinated with 2 doses but have not received the booster doseand it is also noticed that they were infected with the omicron variant 3-4 months after receiving the 2nd dose. None of the respondents who were vaccinated with the booster dose have been infected with the omicron variant. This indicates that 2 doses of vaccine are not sufficient to protect against the omicron variant and a booster dose is important for immunity against the omicron variant. Out of the respondents who have received Pfizer for the booster dose, 32.7% have been administered with Moderna, 28.8% with Sinopharm, 11.5% with Sputnik, and 3.8% with Covishield for the 1st and 2nd dose. Homologous and heterologous booster combinations are found to boost immunity against the omicron variant (Martin et al., 2022).\r\nThe individuals who are vaccinated with 2 doses recently have higher vaccine effectiveness and it wanes with time. The percentage reduction of vaccine effectiveness after 2 doses is estimated to be higher for the omicron variant than that for the delta variant. But a significant increase in vaccine effectiveness is observed against the omicron variant after receiving the booster dose (Gardner & Kilpatrick 2021). Therefore administering the booster dose to the population is important to restore the vaccine effectiveness against the omicron variant and to control the pandemic(Hogan et al., 2022).\r\nLimitations of the study. The data was collected by conducting a survey among the Indian and the Sri Lankan people. The individuals who were infected with covid-19 were not aware of the cycle threshold (CT) values of the RT-PCR testand therefore we were not able to consider the severity of the disease in the study. Moreover, the collection of data from some specific geographical regions and a lower number of respondents might have impacted some of the survey results such as high vaccine effectiveness compared to previous studies.\r\n','Fathima Sasna Nawran, Jit Kr Jha, Isha Ranjan, Vinita Rai and Kamarup Zamal (2022). Survey on Vaccine Effectiveness and Covid- 19 Severity. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 14(3): 307-314.'),(5272,'136','Symptomatic Diseases Surveillance of Climbing Perch (Anabas testudineus) under various Recirculatory aquaculture Systems (RAS) of Haryana','Paramveer Singh*, Rachna Gulati, Ashutosh Lowanshi, Karuna Bamel and Reecha','53 Symptomatic Diseases Surveillance of Climbing Perch (Anabas testudineus) under various Recirculatory aquaculture Systems (RAS) of Haryana PAMRAMVEER.pdf','',1,'Recirculatory aquaculture system (RAS) provides appropriate water quality parameters and a pathogen free environment during the culture period because productive growth of fish depends on various factors like: water quality, pathogen free environment, stocking density and seed quality etc. Sometimes, disease outbreaks in RAS reveal the favourable conditions of pathogens which lead into a higher rate of mortality in this super intensive system where water exchange is limited. Pathogenic infection in RAS causes mass mortality once it comes out. In this concern, our surveillance is aimed to identify the climbing perch common symptomatic disease outbreaks in RAS of Haryana state. During 2021-2022 survey we examined randomly total 14 RAS of distinct districts in Haryana and on each site we collected 20-40 symptomatic infected pieces of Climbing Perch (Anabas testudineus). As per farmer interrogation we observed that dispersion of fish infection varies with stocking densities. RAS farmers with high stocking densities (10000-25000/50000 litre tanks) in our surveillance got various pathogenic infections in their stock as compare to optimum stocking density farms (3000-8000/50000 litre tanks) respectively. Tail and fin rot, red spot and white cotton like growth on body were the most common symptomatic infections in climbing perch under RAS systems of Haryana. This survey on distinct RAS farms of Haryana also highlighted the most common treatment measures that a farmer adopted to get rid from these mortal diseases.','Stocking density, Infection, RAS, Pathogen, Disease','High value fish farming trend under RAS systems of Haryana on higher stocking densities becoming a main reason for outbreak of pathogenic infectious diseases on their farms and because of this farmer’s facing huge economic lose due to high mortality rate. There are various issues in RAS farming of Haryana. However, our main aim of this surveillance was just to express the valuable information regarding appropriate level of stocking densities, possible pathogenic infections and common treatment measures of climbing perch under RAS systems of Haryana.','INTRODUCTION\r\nBlue transformations of fisheries sector have a prominent role to fulfill the world’s upcoming demand of protein and food security. Now a day’s fish farmers and aqua entrepreneurs are adopting intensive scale of fish farming practices and technologies to double their income and production. Because of these approaches India become global leaders in fisheries sector after china with total share of 7.58% in world’s production of fisheries (Anonymous, 2022). Advancement of fisheries industry will be very productive for its growth and expansion. Moreover, culture of valuable fish species under intensive systems like: Recirculatory aquaculture systems (RAS) and Biofloc technology will be productive in prospective of doubling fish farmer’s income. Modernizations in fisheries sector comes up with the introduction of Pradhan mantra matsya sampada yojanan (PMMSY). Moreover, RAS has an enclosed super intensive system intended to manage the high value fish species culture on higher stocking densities and the development of these kind aquaculture system and expansion bring about some serious aspects of pathogens occurrence during the culture Sergaliyev et al. (2017). These systems are often intensive in operation with high stocking densities where pure oxygen supplementation is provided for biofiltration to remove ammonia and dissolved carbon dioxide Summerfelt et al. (2015). Water physicochemical properties can be more unstable in RAS systems than in large ponds or flow-through systems, where stocking densities is lesser than RAS. Fluctuations in water quality parameters result in sudden disease outbreak or significant losses during the production cycle (Banrie, 2013). There is no hesitation that in RAS more sophisticated conditions were provided to fish for their better survival and production but this does not always commit pathogen free environment under water Sergaliyev et al. (2017). Climbing perch (Anabas testudineus) locally famous name is kabai or kawai in India (Fish Base, 2022). Kabai is a freshwater fish species and they have an ability to live under low oxygen conditions because of extra respiratory organs (Hughes et al. 1986). Besides this, climbing perch has thick flesh and delicate tastes (Muchlisin, 2013). Kawai contains high values of iron and copper essentially needed for hemoglobin synthesis (Saha, 1971). Mostly found in small rivers, canals, and swamps Hossain et al. (2021). In India climbing perch has a high customer demand with high value price (Singh et al. 2018). Because of its high value fish farmer in Haryana state of India prefer to culture kawai under intensive culture systems to gain up the high profit and production under confined water systems (RAS). Moreover, Haryana is the only state in India where first RAS system installed in India during 2016 at Sultan fish farm (TAAS, 2020). Besides this, Haryana is on second position in India during 2021 according to annual per hectare fish production (7000 kg/hectare) followed by Punjab (Anonymous 2021a, 2021b). On the other side, Recirculating aquaculture systems (RAS) enjoy many advantages. Advanced recirculatory systems represent only 4.5% of the total aquaculture production as compare to fish farming in pond culture dominating means of production. However, by the end of 2030, RAS will produce the near about 40% of the total aquaculture output. Europe poised to be a leader in water reuse systems (Lux Researcher, 2015). On the other hand, Physical achievements of department of fisheries under Pradhan Mantri Matsya Sampada Yojana already approved 2870 RAS units in India to till date (Anonymous, 2022b, 2022). However, the prevention and treatment of diseases in RAS is little bit challenging, as the pathogens spread throughout the system, and the addition of chemicals and antibiotics disrupts the microbiome of the biofilters Almeida et al. (2019). Under different circumstances with this flow-through aquaculture like: high fish and pathogen densities, limited medication possibilities, in many cases newer or less studied cultured species make recirculation facilities prone to disease problems (Koski, 2013). There is very limited study available on most common climbing perch disease outbreaks in RAS systems of Haryana. Therefore, in our one year surveillance, we tried to investigate the symptomatic infectious diseases outbreak in climbing perch under water reuse system (RAS) with different stocking densities and their preventive or therapeutic treatment measures.\r\nMATERIAL AND METHODS\r\nA cross question interview based survey was conducted throughout the Haryana state on different RAS farms to understand the most common water reuse farming problems (Table 5). Our main aim was to identify the symptomatic infections of climbing perch under distinct stocking densities. During this study, we have collected 20-40 pieces of climbing perch on each RAS farm and on the basis of fish farmer’s interrogation; we enlisted various symptomatic history and present situation of fish health. Moreover, we gathered this data from 14 distinct RAS farms of Haryana during 2021-2022 respectively. A survey questionnaire was used to extract the primary information regarding the stocking density of climbing perch under RAS tanks and the most common infectious symptoms, farmer’s ability to diagnose fish disease with the help of infectious symptoms, fish health management practices, rate of mortality and treatments (Fig. 1).\r\nRESULTS AND DISCUSSION \r\nAll question queries were collected during survey time from different fish farmer’s of Haryana distinct districts regarding stocking density, disease outbreak and mortalities during their culture practices. Besides this, fish farmers and aqua entrepreneur were able to express the symptomatic observation in his/her own words. This was easily understandable. We used simple statistical methods to calculate the surveillance primary data such as frequencies and percentages. Pie and bar charts were used to depict the analyzed variables. Moreover, we applied our clinical pathological sciences of fisheries to identify the exact causative agent of infectious disease with the help of symptomatic identification signs on fish body. \r\nOccurrence of infectious symptoms and rate of mortality on RAS farms. During our survey program mostly RAS farmers of Haryana region reported that they have observed three to two different kinds of infectious symptoms in climbing perch or kawai within 6-8 months of culture period respectively. Significantly, 64.28% RAS farmers reported three types of infectious symptoms on fish body and 21.42% RAS farmers observed only two types of infectious symptoms in climbing perch (Table 1). On the other hand, 14.28% RAS farmers had never noticed any kind of infectious symptoms in climbing perch or kawai during 6-8 months growth cycle respectively (Table 1). The most common reported symptoms were like: red spots and ulcers on fish body like fluid in body respectively, brownish or white cotton like growth on the skin, gills and caudal region of body and tail and fin region start breaking with infections on bas of caudal region respectively. Moreover, highest average rate of mortality also observed in three types of symptomatic RAS farms 34.44% as compare to lowest average rate of mortality 20% find out in two symptomatic RAS farms respectively (Table 3).\r\nFrequency of stocking densities in RAS farms. Stocking density rate in RAS has a significant role in prospective of their growth and survival rate respectively. Moreover, during our one year surveillance, we observed that mostly RAS farmers prefer to stock Anabas test udineus on higher rate in their RAS 50000 litre tanks as compare to lower stocking density rate (Graph 3). On the other side, we observed that different RAS farmers has lower survival rate on higher stocking density and higher rate of infectious symptoms as compare to lower stocking density farms respectively.\r\nMost common treatment measures on RAS farms. In our survey we noticed mostly fish farmers prefer to use few sanitizers and disinfectants like: Benzalkonium chloride (BKC), KMnO4 and Iodine liquid or salt as a primary most common treatment measure on their RAS farms. Besides this, 72.42% RAS fish farmers prefer to treat their infected fish stock with antibiotics as a secondary most common feed based treatment in their fish diet respectively (Table 4). Moreover, use of herbal treatment was not so popular among the RAS farmers only 21.42% RAS farms prefer to use it as a treatment measure in case of infection. We observed that, use of CIFAX was only 57.14% on different RAS farms during infectious conditions as compare to BKC and KMnO4 respectively (Graph 4).\r\nPossible diseases diagnosis on the basis of clinical symptoms. As per clinical signs and farmer’s interrogations, we observed mainly possible chances of Epizootic ulcerative syndrome (EUS), Dropsy, Tail and fin rot disease, Saprolegniasis and Cotton wool diseases in climbing perch (Kawai) on mostly RAS farms except on 2 RAS sites where no infectious symptoms reported due to optimum stocking density practices as per our analysis (Table 5) (Kumar et al., 2022; Sergaliyev et al., 2017; John & George 2012; Robert et al., 2003). \r\nTable 5 depicts the RAS farmer’s site location, symptoms, treatment details and possible diagnosis diseases.\r\nIn present surveillance, we analyzed that most of the RAS farmers of Haryana region doing their fish farming under this advance technology on very high stocking densities (10000-20000 fishes per 50000 litre tanks) with this impact they are facing infectious problems in their kawai (Anabas testudineus) stock respectively. Besides this, few RAS farmers have 0% rate of mortality due to (below 8000 fishes per 50000 litre tanks) optimum stocking densities (Table 5). Moreover, during the time of production cycle mostly farmers observing 3 types of symptomatic infections in their fish stock. On the other hand, BKC, KMnO4 and iodine are the most common treatment measures that RAS farmer had taken as primary measure to deal with pathogenic infections. Whereas, antibiotics and CIFAX has also comes on secondary priority of RAS farmers against these infectious diseases in Haryana. \r\n','Paramveer Singh, Rachna Gulati, Ashutosh Lowanshi, Karuna Bamel and Reecha (2022). Symptomatic Diseases Surveillance of Climbing Perch (Anabas testudineus) under various Recirculatory aquaculture Systems (RAS) of Haryana. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 14(3): 315-321.'),(5273,'136','Growth Performance of Teak (Tectona grandis Linn.) Stump under different Growing Media in Nursery','Kamal Ghising, Amarendra Nath Dey, Sumit Chakravarty, Mihir Ranjan Panda, Nilesh Bhowmick \r\nand Dibyendu Mukhopadhyay\r\n','54 Growth Performance of Teak (Tectona grandis Linn.) Stump under different Growing Media in Nursery Amarendra Nath Dey.pdf','',1,'A study was conducted to obtain low cost and easily available growing media for raising quality seedlings and assess the sprouting and growth attributes of teak (Tectona grandis Linn.) stump under different growing media using soil, sand, FYM, sawdust and vermicompost in different proportion in nursery condition. Healthy and vigorous one-year old stumps of 2.5 cm shoot and 12.5 cm root were selected and planted in the polybags of 6” x 12” in size having eleven combinations of growing media for 240 days. The growing media viz., sand: soil: FYM (1:1:1), sand: soil: vermicompost (1:1:1) and, sawdust: soil: FYM (1:1:1) showed highest sprouting percentage (100%) indicating better sprouting possibility than solo media like vermicompost (96%), soil (95.33%) and sawdust (91.33%). Highest (20.29 mm and 170.45 cm) and lowest (9.21 mm and height 62.94 cm) collar diameter and height was exhibited in sand: soil: vermicompost (1:2:1) and soil growing media, respectively. After 240 days in the nursery, sturdiness quotient in each and every growing media was cross the limit (6.0) signalling the risk on survival and growth in the field. Therefore, it is recommended to use vermicompost based composite media for the production of healthy and quality seedlings of T. grandis for mass scale under nursery condition.','Collar diameter, growing media, sprouting, stump, Tectona grandis','It reveals from the study that the media comprising of sand: soil: FYM (1:1:1) proved the best for sprouting of stumps, number of days for completion of sprouting and survival rate among the different media whereas sand: soil: vermicompost (1:2:1) showed maximum growth in terms of collar diameter, height, number of leaves, leaf fresh weight, root fresh weight, shoot fresh weight, leaf dry weight, root dry weight, shoot dry weight, total biomass and leaf area. Over all the growing medium comprising vermicompost was superior for growth of teak seedlings. Therefore, it is recommended to use vermicompost based composite media for the production of healthy and quality seedlings of Tectona grandis for mass scale under nursery condition. However, further study regarding the nutrient uptake and genetic characteristics is also needful. ','INTRODUCTION \r\nTeak (Tectona grandis Linn.) is one of the most important widely planted hardwood tropical timber species in the World (Ball et al., 1999), increasing subsequently from 2.25 million ha to 6.0 million hectares (Bhat and Hwan, 2004) and distributed at latitudes in the range of 90 – 25030’ N and longitudes of 73°E to 104°30\' E (Thaiutsa et al., 2001). It is indigenous in both peninsulas of India, in north-eastern drier parts of Java and in other islands of Indian Archipelago (Brandis, 1906). Its natural habitat lies between 10°N and 25°N latitudes with altitudinal range up to 1300 m above sea level on the Indian subcontinent and in South East Asia, especially in India, Burma, Thailand, Cambodia, Vietnam and Indonesia. It is accounted as one of the best economic tree species and mostly highly-valued hardwood due to the dimensional stability, quality, attractiveness, workability and durability of its heartwood (Bermejo et al., 2003). It is preferably grown in the areas having at mean annual temperature varies from 14º- 36ºC and annual rainfall ranges from 600 to 4000 mm, but mostly prefer contrasting dry and wet seasons with a wide range of climatic and edaphic conditions (Orwa et al., 2009). In India, it grows well in dry and moist deciduous forest and even if extensively planted throughout India both within as well as outside its natural distributional range covering 8.9 million hectare and has the maximum genetic variability of teak (Luna, 1996).\r\nThe growth behaviour of teak seedlings ascertains its superiority for its successful establishment either in any plantation programme on in agroforestry system which depends upon its genetic make-up of parent trees as well as environment particularly edaphic and climatic condition. So, planters or farmers are adopting different practices in teak plantation silviculture including regeneration, immediate cuttings and protection for management of teak plantation (Suwannapinant et al., 2001). Teak plants are generally raised either by seeds or stumps or vegetative means as grafting, layering and branch cutting. Rapid early growth of seedlings in nursery helps in early establishment in the field. To produce better quality seedlings for achieving maximum productivity, seedlings are either to be fertilized or raised with using proper growing media in nursery. This practice is now quite common in nursery for developing sturdy root system which enables the plant for vigorous growth and survive after transplanting. The works on the growth performance of forest seedlings with the application of different growing media or potting mixtures in nursery have been carried out by different workers (Guleria, 2006; Mhango et al., 2008; Sondarva et al., 2017; Vidyasagaran and Kumar, 2017 and Mahmoud et al., 2019). But the effect of growing media on growth performance of teak stump has not been fully evaluated. Keeping in view the importance of teak, the present study was focussed on the application of low cost and easily available different growing media for raising quality seedlings of teak through stumps in the nursery. \r\nMATERIALS AND METHODS\r\nThe experiment was carried out in the Central Forest Nursery of the Department of Forestry, Uttar Banga Krishi Viswavidyalaya during 2019-2020. The site is located in the plains of terai zone of West Bengal with 26°23\'45.8\"N latitude and 89°23\'16.7\"E longitude with an elevation of 43 m above mean sea level. The climate is mostly dominated by humid subtropical over the region with a considerable variation in seasonal and diurnal temperature. The minimum and maximum temperature varied from 9.86°C during winter (January) to 34.34°C during summer (August). Average annual rainfall is varied from 2200 to 3000 mm with a relative humidity from 49.66 to 93.10%.\r\nThe growing media used were nursery soil, farm yard manure (FYM), vermicompost and saw dust in different proportion. The nursery soils were air-dried, sieved to remove stones, pellets and other foreign materials. Then, approximately 2-3 kg of properly mixed above mentioned growing media was filled up in the polybags of 6” x 12” in size under nursery condition for propagation. One-year old teak stumps i.e. root-shoot cuttings of uniform size and pencil thickness having 2.5 cm shoot and 12.5 cm root was planted in polybags comprising different growing media in different ratio. The experiment was consisting complete randomized design with 11 treatments in three replications namely, T1- soil; T2- sand: soil (1:1); T3- sand: soil: FYM (1:1:1); T4- sand: soil: FYM (1:2:1); T5- Vermicompost; T6- sand: soil: vermicompost: (1:1:1); T7- sand: soil: vermicompost: (1:2:1); T8- sawdust; T9- sawdust: soil (1:1); T10- sawdust: soil: FYM (1:1:1) and T11- sawdust: soil: FYM (1:2:1). A total of 150 stumps per treatment having with fifty stumps in each replication were taken for study. Weeding and irrigation was done as and when required. At the end of 30 days, data on sprouting percentage and time taken for complete sprouting were recorded, where survival percentage was calculated on monthly basis up to eight months. The observations on growth attributes of seedlings i.e. collar diameter, shoot height, number of leaves, fresh and dry weight of leaf, shoot and root, total biomass, leaf area on the basis of area-dry weight relation (cm2) and sturdiness quotient (S.Q.) as outlined by (Thomson, 1985) were assessed at the interval of two months up to the age of eight months by selecting three seedlings randomly per replication of each treatment. All the data were subjected to three-way analysis of variance (ANOVA) for testing the effect of plant species, planting geometry and soil depth individually and interactions among them. Least significant difference (P<0.05) values were used to compare the treatment differences.\r\nRESULTS AND DISCUSSION \r\nThe mean sprouting percentage and time taken for completion of sprouting in the different growing media was significantly different (Fig. 1). Irrespective of the growing media, the sprouting of teak stumps was ranged from 91.33 to 100% with an average value of 97.82%. Highest sprouting (100%) was observed in media comprising sand: soil: FYM (1:1:1), sand: soil: vermicompost (1:1:1) and sawdust: soil: FYM (1:1:1) whereas lowest sprouting (91.33%) was in sawdust followed by soil (95.33%) which was significantly different with each other. It might be due to more compactness and binding property with highest Ca content in vermicompost and acidic nature of soil (Nurhidayati et al., 2017). The sprouting percentage in composite media with vermicompost showed 96 to 100%, indicating superiority over the growing media composite with sawdust (91.33 to 100%) and other composite media (95.33 to 100%) after 30 days. The performance of composite media provided better condition for sprouting as compared to sole media, particularly sawdust (91.33%), soil (95.33%) and vermicompost (96.00%), respectively. Though, the teak stumps were prepared from the same batch of seedlings, the variation in sprouting percentage might be due to the presence of plant hormones which regulate the development of buds into sprouts and stored reserves foods which enable sprouts to expand. Particularly endogenous cytokinin and inherent potential for mobilizing and utilizing of stored reserves in teak stump are likely to be sufficient for stump sprouting. This finding is consonance with the findings of Kaosa-ard et al. (1977); Zaller (2007) as vermicompost as a substrate positively effect on sprouting of Lycopersicon esculentum whereas Omokhua et al. (2015) noticed that sawdust enhanced sprouting percentage in T. ivorensis which is contradictory with our findings. Sood and Ram (2019) assessed that soil: sand: vermicompost (1:1:1) was observed significantly higher germination than that of soil: sand: FYM (1:1:1) in Oroxylum indicum. This result is closely agreement with the findings of Khadijah et al. (2020); Panda et al. (2021). \r\nThe longest time span (24.67 days) was recorded in sawdust for complete sprouting whereas the least (15.33 days) was found in soil: sand: FYM (1:1:1) followed by 16.67 and 17.0 days in soil: sand: vermicompost (1:1:1) and sawdust: soil: FYM (1:1:1), respectively which was not significantly different with other. The rest of growing media such as soil; sand: soil (1:1); sand: soil: FYM (1:2:1); vermicompost; sand: soil: vermicompost: (1:2:1); sawdust: soil (1:1) and sawdust: soil: FYM (1:2:1) with respect to the number of days taken for complete sprouting was not significantly different with each other. The time span varied between 17.00 to 24.67 days in sawdust composition 16.67 to 19.67 in vermicompost composition while other media showed 15.33 to 20.33 days, which clearly indicated that, the superiority of vermicompost as a better media to take lesser time for completion of sprouting. It might be due to the available of higher N content in vermicompost composite mixture than sole media which influenced the germination period (Lazcano et al., 2010). Sondarva et al. (2017) observed the similar findings that the media composition vermicompost and red soil took minimum 7.58 days for germination in Khaya senegalensis. \r\nThe survival percentage was showed decreasing trend with increasing the age of the seedlings with significant difference among the treatment (Fig. 2). After 240 days of growth, the maximum survival (95.33%) was observed in sand: soil: vermicompost (1:1:1) which was statistically at par with 88.67% in sawdust: soil: FYM (1:1:1) followed by 86.67% in both, sand: soil: FYM (1:1:1) and sawdust: soil: FYM (1:2:1) growing media, respectively whereas the minimum (62.67%) was in sawdust followed by 71.33 and 80.00% in soil and sand: soil: FYM (1:2:1) growing media, respectively. The vermicompost as component of growing media ranged from 84 to 95.33% which proved the best performing in terms of survival percentage followed by sawdust composite media (62.67 to 88.67%) and other composite media (71.33 to 86.67%) after 240 days. The results presented in this study are well in line with the results obtained earlier by Masilamani et al. (2010) in teak stumps as maximum survival (98%) was observed with red earth: sand: farm yard manure (2:1:1) and the probability of plant mortality was significantly higher in Uapaca kirkiana seedling with saw dust media which may be due to the tannin and low nutrient content (Sileshi et al., 2007). \r\nThe effect of growing media on growth attributes like collar diameter, height and number of leaves was showed with significant difference among the growing media throughout the growing period. Irrespective of growing media, the collar diameter ranged from 5.70 to 8.94 mm with a mean value of 6.99 mm at 60 days; 7.32 to 11.04 mm with an average of 9.88 mm at 120 days; 9.08 to 14.38 mm with an average of 12.54 mm at 180 days and 9.21 to 20.29 mm with a mean value of 14.60 mm at 240 days of growth, respectively (Table 1). The collar diameter was showed increasing trend during the growth period. After 60 days of growth, sawdust: soil (1:1) exhibited highest (8.94 mm) collar diameter followed by sawdust (7.89 mm) and 7.82 mm in sand: soil: FYM (1:2:1), respectively whereas the growing media sawdust and sand: soil: FYM (1:1:1) recorded maximum collar diameter (11.04 and 14.38 mm) in at 120 and 180 days, respectively while the sole media soil showed minimum (5.71, 7.32 and 9.08 mm) at 60, 120 and 180 days, respectively. Similarly, highest (20.29 mm) collar diameter was found in sand: soil: vermicompost (1:2:1) followed by 15.79 mm in sawdust: soil: FYM (1:2:1) which was closely at par with sawdust (15.53 mm) whereas the lowest (9.21 mm) was found in soil at 240 days of growth. The collar diameter varied from 14.91 to 20.29 mm in the vermicompost based growing media which proved the best performing growing media in terms of collar diameter followed by sawdust composite media (12.40 to 15.79 mm) and other composite media (9.21 to 15.13 mm) after 240 days. This finding is similar with the result of Mwadalu et al. (2020) in seedling of Casuarina equisetifolia: highest collar diameter with 10% manure as it enhanced the nitrogen and phosphorus availability and Murugesan et al. (2014) in Pongamia pinnata, treated with flyash: vermicompost: soil (1:1:2) by catalysing the uptake of NPK and micro nutrients (Fe, Mn, Cu and Zn) at all growth stages.\r\nHeight of the seedlings showed increasing trend with age in all growing media during the period of study. Irrespective of growing media, the average height was 38.33, 79.70, 103.01 and 123.23 cm at 60, 120, 180 and 240 days of growth, respectively (Table 1). The maximum height (170.45 cm) was observed in sand: soil: vermicompost (1:2:1) followed by 150.96 cm in vermicompost which statistically at par with sawdust: soil (1:1) indicating 146.91 cm whereas minimum (62.94 cm) was recorded in soil at 240 days. The vermicompost based composite media influenced the height from 109.18 to 170.45cm and proved the best performing in terms of height followed by sawdust composite media (118.79 to 146.91cm) and other composite media (62.94 to 132.40cm) after 240 days. It might be due to the effect of the combination of high moisture retention and significant air space in growing media. The present study is close agreement with Dao et al. (2020) that vermicompost enhanced the relative height growth (132% in Betula platyphylla, 114% in Larix kaempferi and 57% in Chamaecyparis obtuse) with significant increased N concentration. The vermicompost growing media was not only improved health but also promoted plant growth because of higher microbial load (Emperor and Kumar, 2015) while sawdust was recorded lowest seedling growth in height and root collar diameter in seedlings (Ashiono et al., 2017) due to slow rate of decomposition and temporary depression in nitrogen release tendency (Garner, 2014). \r\nThe number of leaves per plant showed an increasing trend up to 120 days and thereafter declined due to the starting of leaf fall in winter (Table 1). The number of leaves per plant varied from 6.7 to 9.7 with a mean of 7.50; 8.2 to 11.6 with an average value of 9.74; 7.2 to 9.2 with a mean of 8.22 and 4.7 to 7.4 with an average value of 6.71 at 60, 120 180 and 240 days of growth, respectively. Maximum number of leaves per plant (7.4) was recorded in three growing media, particularly in sand: soil: FYM (1:2:1); sand: soil: vermicompost (1:2:1) and sawdust: soil: FYM (1:1:1) whereas minimum (4.7) was in sawdust at the end of 240 days of growth. The vermicompost composite media showed the best performing in terms of number of leaves than sawdust composite media and other composite media after 240 days. In another study, the highest number of leaves per stump were enumerated in composition of vermicompost and red soil (1:1) in Khaya senegalensis as organic media were generally rich in essential plant nutrients including vitamins, enzymes and hormones (Sondarva et al., 2017); whereas sand and sawdust: sand (1:1) were enhanced the number of leaves of Cordia africana branch cuttings due to the physical characteristic of the media in regard to the porosity and air water balance (Ambebe et al., 2018).\r\nThe results pertaining to fresh weight of leaves, root and shoot are presented in Table 2 and showed significant difference (p = 0.05) among the different growing media throughout the growing period for all traits. An increasing trend in the leaf fresh weight was exhibited with age up to 180 days and then showed declining trend afterwards but increasing trend was observed in both root and shoot fresh weight throughout the growing periods. The range among the different growing media for fresh weight of leaves was observed to be 13.66 – 37.81 g/plant, 15.59 – 40.77 g/plant, 46.87 – 103.45 g/plant and 37.82 – 63.12 g/plant at 60, 120, 180 and 240 days of growth, respectively. The maximum leaf fresh weight (63.12 g/plant) was recorded in sand: soil: vermicompost (1:2:1) followed by 58.49 g/plant in sawdust: soil (1:1) and 56.15 g/plant in sawdust: soil: FYM (1:1:1) whereas minimum (37.82 g/plant) was recorded in sawdust: soil: FYM (1:2:1) followed by soil (46.87 g/plant) at the end of 240 days of growth. After 60 days of growth of stumps, the maximum leaf fresh weight (37.81 g/plant) was recorded in sand: soil: FYM (1:2:1) statistically at par with sand: soil: FYM (1:1:1) and sawdust: soil (1:1) indicating 33.90 and 30.47 g/plant, respectively. It is clearly stated that organic manures effectively enhanced the vegetative growth of the plant and helped to produce the heaviest fresh weight of leaves. This study is well in line with the findings of Mohapatra and Das (2009); Quasni et al. (2014).\r\nThe average root fresh weight was found to be 25.37, 38.18, 50.48 and 81.93 g/plant at the age 60, 120, 180 and 240 days, respectively with irrespective of the growing media. The maximum root fresh weight (108.08 g/plant) was recorded in sand: soil: vermicompost (1:2:1) which was statistically at par with 107.20 g/plant in sawdust and 106.87 g/plant in sawdust: soil: FYM (1:1:1) whereas the minimum root fresh weight (59.95 g/plant) was observed in sawdust: soil: FYM (1:2:1) followed by 65.16 g/plant in soil. The present findings are showed similar result of Sood et al. (2018) as: soil: sand: vermicompost (1:1:1) induced highest root weight in Terminalia bellirica seedling and another finding, soil: sand: FYM (1:1:1) had more aeration than other media which provide adequate nutrients to promote better root growth of Oroxylum indicum seedlings (Sood and Ram, 2019).\r\nIrrespective of the growing media, the mean value of shoot fresh weight was 15.82, 42.78, 72.66 and 107.06 g/plant at the age of 60, 120, 180 and 240 days, respectively. The maximum shoot fresh weight (144.93 g/plant) was recorded in sand: soil: vermicompost (1:2:1) followed by 123.81 g/plant in sand: soil: vermicompost (1:1:1) which was at par with 122.76g in vermicompost whereas the minimum (67.85 g) was in soil at the age of 240 days. The vermicompost based growing media influenced shoot fresh weight better than other growing media. The study is close agreement with Mathowa et al. (2014) that the combination of garden soil, forest soil and commercial compost significantly increased total shoot fresh weight in Adansoni digitata seedlings which may be attributed to the general improvement in the soil physical and chemical properties and also Sood et al. (2018) found that soil: sand: vermicompost (1:1:1) had highest fresh shoot weight in Terminalia bellerica seedling. \r\nAn appraisal of data in Table 3 it was found that the dry weight of root and shoot increased gradually at all periodic intervals among all growing media except leaf dry weight. The leaf, root and shoot dry weight of seedlings in different growing media showed wide range of variations with significant difference throughout the growing period in nursery. Leaf dry weight in different growing media ranged between 2.65 g/plant to 7.34 g/plant with an average of 4.63 g/plant at 60days; 3.51 to 9.98 g/plant with an average of 7.36 g/plant at 120 days; 17.87 g/plant to 30.83 g/plant with a mean of 23.28 at 180 days and 9.87 g/plant to 16.47 g/plant with average of 13.34 g/plant at the end of 240 days of growth. Maximum leaf dry weight (16.47 g/plant) was exhibited in sand: soil: vermicompost (1:2:1) which at par with 15.26 g/plant in sawdust: soil (1:1) whereas minimum (13.97 g/plant) was in soil growing media at 240 days of growth in nursery. The results indicating media close to neutral pH may supply nutrients in adequate quantities to container-grown trees for cell turgidity and enlargement within plant tissues. The study is closely similar with Quasni et al. (2014) in Magnolia grandiflora and Mahmoud et al. (2019) in Pistacia vera. \r\nAs far as root dry weight per seedling is concerned, the average values varied from 4.97 to 23.68 g/plant from 60 to 240 days. The maximum root dry weight (16.92 and 31.23 g/plant) was recorded in sand: soil: vermicompost (1:2:1) at 180 and 240 days where as the growing media sawdust exhibited highest root dry weight (7.44 and 14.39 g/plant) in 60 and 120 days of growth of seedlings, respectively. The minimum root dry weight was recorded in sawdust: soil: FYM (1:2:1) in all growing periods in all growing media. The present findings are similar with the findings of Tallini et al. (1991); Daldoum and Hammad (2015) indicating humic acid in the vermicompost enhanced root growth parameter which organically is a bio-stimulant that boost up crop growth (Noory et al., 2022).\r\nThe maximum shoot dry weight (40.87 g/plant) was recorded in sand: soil: vermicompost (1:2:1) followed by 34.92 g/plant in sand: soil: vermicompost (1:1:1) which was statistically at par with vermicompost (34.62 g/plant) whereas the minimum (19.13 g/plant) in soil was not significantly different with 21.48 g/plant in sand: soil (1:1) and 22.49 g/plant in sawdust: soil: FYM (1:1:1) at the end of 240 days. Overall, the vermicompost composite media showed highest shoot dry weight (34.62 to 40.87 g/plant) in comparison to sawdust media (22.49 to 34.26 g/plant) and other composite media (19.13 to 31.95 g/plant) after 240 days. Singh et al. (2018) reported somewhat similar results in growing medium of soil: sand: FYM: dalweed (1:2:3:3) showed high dry shoot weight in Pinus halepensis due to more nitrogen from the FYM narrower C: N ratio which promote better shoot growth. \r\nDifferent growing media had significant effect on the total biomass throughout the growing period (Table 4). The maximum total biomass (88.57 g/plant) was recorded in sand: soil: vermicompost (1:2:1) followed by 78.47 g/plant in sawdust which was statistically at par with sawdust: soil: FYM (1:1:1) with 75.38 g/plant whereas the minimum total biomass (49.29 g/plant) was recorded in soil closely followed by 49.68 g/plant in sawdust: soil: FYM (1:2:1) at 240 days. Similar trend was followed at 180 days whereas the maximum total biomass (18.20 and 34.65 g/plant) was exhibited in sand: soil: FYM (1:2:1) and sawdust at the age of 60 and 120 days, respectively while the minimum (8.21 and 17.76 g/plant) was observed in sawdust: soil: FYM (1:2:1). The study showed close agreement with Saqib et al. (2019) in Acacia nilotica seedlings with 75% compost level and sawdust alone had recorded the lowest total biomass in Eucalyptus saligna seedlings due to the decomposition environment associated with mineralization of the growth media (Ashiono et al., 2017). Not only the nutrient content in growing medium are affecting plant growth but also other indirect effect via the inhibition of plant pathogen infection (Masilamani et al., 2010) or effects of on the rhizospehere microflora might dominate sole growing media effects (Suwannapinant et al., 2001; Guleria, 2006).\r\nThe effect of growing media on leaf area was showed increasing trend with age up to 180 days and then no systematic trend was followed afterwards because of the starting of leaf fall. The leaf area showed significant difference among treatments from 60 to 120 days and became non-significant after 180 and 240 days of growth (Table 4). The maximum leaf area (4542.39 cm2) was recorded in sand: soil: vermicompost (1:2:1) followed by 4505.02 cm2 in sawdust: soil (1:1) and 4456.87 cm2 in sawdust: soil: FYM (1:1:1) whereas the minimum leaf area (2057.92 cm2) was recorded in soil after 240 days of planting. The growing media containing vermicompost increased the P, K and total soluble solid which may improve the leaf area in the plant (Peyvast et al., 2008). These findings are in close conformity with earlier observation of Aderounmu et al. (2020) in Vitellaria paradoxa and differ with the views of Amonum et al. (2019) in Dacryodes edulis on sawdust and river sand.\r\nThe stocky or spindly nature of the seedlings depends upon the sturdiness quotient of the plant. The effect of growing media on sturdiness quotient was represented with significant difference among the treatments throughout the experimental period (Table 4). The sturdiness quotient was recorded above 6.0 after 120 days of growth in all growing media which might be due to the fast-growing nature of the species over the initials except sand: soil (1:1) indicating 5.90. Irrespective of the growing media the sturdiness quotient ranged from 4.06 to 6.61 with an average value of 5.44 at 60 days. It is generally agreed that if SQ increases, the seedlings will be less sturdy and intolerant to strong wind, drought, and frost resulting in substantial losses compared to seedlings with lower SQ values. The seedlings raised in compost growing media with significantly higher sturdiness quotient as compared to both soil and sand due to the effect of organic and nitrogen availability of the media (Kihara, 2002). This study is close agreement with the results of Mwadalu et al. (2020) in Casuarina equisetifolia seedling and Sood et al. (2018) in Terminalia bellirica seedlings.\r\nIt reveals from the study that the media comprising of sand: soil: FYM (1:1:1) proved the best for sprouting of stumps, number of days for completion of sprouting and survival rate among the different media whereas sand: soil: vermicompost (1:2:1) showed maximum growth in terms of collar diameter, height, number of leaves, leaf fresh weight, root fresh weight, shoot fresh weight, leaf dry weight, root dry weight, shoot dry weight, total biomass and leaf area. Over all the growing medium comprising vermicompost was superior for growth of teak seedlings. Therefore, it is recommended to use vermicompost based composite media for the production of healthy and quality seedlings of Tectona grandis for mass scale under nursery condition. However, further study regarding the nutrient uptake and genetic characteristics is also needful. \r\n','Kamal Ghising, Amarendra Nath Dey, Sumit Chakravarty, Mihir Ranjan Panda, Nilesh Bhowmick and Dibyendu Mukhopadhyay (2022). Growth Performance of Teak (Tectona grandis Linn.) Stump under different Growing Media in Nursery. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 14(3): 322-330.'),(5274,'136','Proximate Composition of different Varieties of Banana Pseudostem Powder for Nutritional and Biochemical properties','Mydhili M., Pugalendhi L., Indu Rani C., Auxcilia J. and Uma D.','55 Proximate Composition of different Varieties of Banana Pseudostem Powder for Nutritional and Biochemical properties Pugalendhi L.pdf','',1,'Banana (Musa sp.) belongs to the family Musaceae. Banana pseudostem is a by-product of banana cultivation. It has many potential for incorporating as a source of nutrients in the food products. For the effective utilization of banana pseudostem and to reduce the disposal problem, it can be used in food products for improving the nutritional value. The aim of the study is to analyze the nutritional and biochemical properties of pseudostem powder of seven different varieties namely Poovan, Nendran, Monthan, Karpooravalli, Ney Poovan, Grand Naine and Red Banana. The banana pseudostem powder recorded moisture content (7.2%), pH (7.1), total soluble solids (1.5 ˚Brix), ash (4.1%), titratable acidity (0.05%), protein (3.3%), total carbohydrates (29.3 %) and vitamin C content (6.6 mg/ 100g). The biochemical analysis showed that the proximate contents i.e., total soluble solids, titratable acidity, total carbohydrates and vitamin C content were highest in the variety Karpooravalli whereas ash content and protein were highest in the variety Ney Poovan and Monthan respectively. These findings will be useful in the further studies in utilization of banana pseudostem in food industries for making products from banana.','Banana pseudostem, cabinet drying, pseudostem powder, biochemical composition','The results of this study showed that the banana pseudostem is rich in proximate composition such as total soluble solids, ash content, titratable acidity, protein, total carbohydrates and vitamin C content. Pseudostem powder can be utilized in various value-added products as a source of dietary fibre to improve the nutritional quality. In addition, the low moisture content of the pseudostem powder increases the shelf life and makes it a useful ingredient to incorporate in the food industry. It is an efficient way for using the by-product of banana crop which significantly reduces the waste disposal problem.','INTRODUCTION\r\nBanana (Musa sp.) is a widely cultivated fruit crop in India. It belongs to the family Musaceae. Banana is commonly called as “Apple of the Paradise.” It was originated from South East Asia. There are two species viz., Musa acuminata and Musa balbisiana from which edible bananas were originated. Banana crop performs well in both tropical and subtropical regions of the world. It is a perennial herb up to a height of 12 to15 feet.\r\nIndia is the largest banana producing country in the world. According to FAO (Food and Agricultural Organization), approximately 119.83 million tonnes of banana and plantains were produced worldwide (FAO, 2020). In India, Banana is grown in an area of 8.8 lakh hectares with a production of 32.45 million tonnes (Department of Agriculture and Farmers Welfare, 2019). In Tamil Nadu, Banana occupies an area of 97,644 hectares with a production of 3.89 million tonnes (Department of Horticulture and Plantation crops, Government of Tamil Nadu, 2020-21).\r\nApart from its fruits, there are different parts of banana plant such as flowers and pseudostem which is also consumed in various regions. The stem of banana, usually referred to as pseudostem is an aggregation of leaf stalk bases in cylindrical form. The pseudostem includes a central core and numerous outer sheaths. Elanthikkal et al. (2010) reported that fruit of the banana crop contributes about 12% of the total plant weight whereas the remaining 88% of the banana plant (i.e., pseudostem and leaf) is of no economic use. Approximately 220 tonnes per hectare of crop residues were produced in the banana cultivation annually (Shah et al., 2005). Hence after harvest, banana crop produces large amounts of crop residues, which are usually thrown out and cause disposal problems (Li et al., 2010).\r\nBanana pseudostem is also used in the preparation of handicrafts, ropes, fabrics, papers etc. Pseudostem has many medicinal properties and contains many nutrients like protein, carbohydrates and dietary fibre. In recent years, the demand for the utilization of banana pseudostem has been increasing in order to enhance the nutritional benefits (Ho et al., 2017). The pseudostem is also used in the treatment of various diseases namely high blood pressure, diabetes and obesity. It also helps in detoxification of the body tissues (Ambrose et al., 2016). Hence, it can be potentially used as an alternative food resource.\r\nThere is a lot of potential for using banana pseudostem in food products for human consumption. It can be utilized in food products because of its potential nutritional benefit (Desai et al., 2016). Hence, this study was undertaken to analyze the nutritional and biochemical properties of banana pseudostem and to utilize in various food supplements.\r\nMATERIALS AND METHODS\r\nBanana pseudostems were collected from the University orchard of Horticultural College and Research Institute, Tamil Nadu Agricultural University, Coimbatore. Seven varieties were taken for the analysis namely Poovan, Nendran, Monthan, Karpooravalli, Ney Poovan, Grand Naine and Red Banana.\r\nThe pseudostem was collected from the University orchard after the harvest of the fruit bunches. It was cleaned to remove any impurities, weighed and cut into pieces using a clean knife. The cut pieces were spread uniformly in cabinet dryer and dried at a temperature of 70˚C till reaching a constant weight. The dried pseudostem was grounded into powder using pulverizer and stored at ambient temperature.\r\nProximate analysis\r\nMoisture content\r\nThe moisture content of the dried pseudostem was determined by using hot air oven method (Ranganna, 1986). The weight of the empty crucible was taken. The dried pseudostem powder of known weight is taken in the crucible and kept at 105˚C for three hours. After drying, the weight of the powder and crucible was taken and moisture content was calculated.\r\nMoisture content (%)=\r\n(Initial weight-Final weight)/(Final weight) ×100\r\npH. The pH value of the powder was estimated by using pH meter. The pH meter was standardized with buffer solution of pH 7.0 and check against buffer of pH 9.2. Once it is calibrated, the sample was dissolved in distilled water and pH was determined.\r\nTotal Soluble Solids (TSS). The total soluble solid (TSS) of the pseudostem powder was estimated by using a hand refractometer and values were expressed as ˚Brix.\r\nAsh content. The ash content was calculated by using AOAC 923.03 method. The pseudostem powder (0.5 g) was taken in a crucible and dried in the muffle furnace at 550˚C until white ash was formed. After cooling, the weight was measured and ash content was calculated. \r\n Ash content on dry basis(% by weight)=\r\n(W2-W)/( W1-W ) ×100\r\nWhere, W = Weight in gram of empty dish \r\n W1 = Weight in gram of the dish with the dried material taken\r\n W2 = Weight in gram of the dish with the ash\r\nTitratable acidity (TA). Two gram of sample was mixed with 30 ml distilled water and 20 ml methanol. It was kept in water bath for 15 minutes and filtered through cotton. Four ml of the filtrate and five ml distilled water was taken into a conical flask and two drops of phenolphthalein indicator was added. It was titrated against 0.1N NaOH until the end point (appearance of pink colour). Titratable acidity was expressed as percentage lactic acid (Adelekan and Oyewole 2010).\r\nProtein. The protein content of the sample was estimated by using Lowry’s method. The sample (0.5 g) was mixed with a solvent and centrifuged. The supernatant part (0.2 ml) was taken in test tubes and 5ml of Lowry’s reagent was added. After 10 minutes, 0.5 ml Folin-ciocalteu reagent was added and incubated for 30 minutes. The blue colour developed was read in 660 nm and the amount of protein in the sample was calculated.\r\nTotal carbohydrates. The sample (0.1 g) was mixed with 5 ml of 2.5 N HCl and kept at boiling water bath for three hours. Then it was neutralized with sodium carbonate and made up to 100 ml. The sample was centrifuged at 10,000 rpm for 20 minutes. From this 0.5 ml of the supernatant was taken and mixed with 0.5 ml distilled water. The anthrone reagent (4 ml) was added and kept for 8 minutes in boiling water bath. The absorbance was measured at 630 nm (Hedge and Hofreiter, 1962).\r\nVitamin C content\r\nVitamin C (Ascorbic acid) content was estimated using the method suggested by Ruck (1963). The banana pseudostem powder (0.5 g) was mixed with 4% oxalic acid and made upto up to a volume of 100ml and centrifuged. The supernatant part (5 ml) was added with 10ml of 4% oxalic acid and titrated against the dye until a pale pink color appeared. \r\nRESULTS AND DISCUSSION\r\nMoisture content. The moisture content of the dehydrated produces determines the keeping quality and longevity of the finished goods. The low moisture content products can be stored for a long period of time without any quality deterioration. The moisture level of food products also has a significant impact on textural quality, chemical and biological reactions as well as microbial growth rates. The moisture content (%) of Poovan, Nendran, Monthan, Karpooravalli, Ney Poovan, Grand Naine and Red banana varieties are 5.0, 7.5, 6.2, 8.9, 8.3, 7.9 and 6.5 respectively at 70˚C drying temperature. The highest moisture content was observed in the variety Karpooravalli (8.9%) and the lowest was recorded in the variety Poovan (5.0%). Aziz et al. (2011) reported that moisture content in dried pseudostem powder of Musa acuminata × Musa balbisiana Colla cv.Awak as 8.82%.\r\nThe differences in the moisture content may be due to the binding capacity of the finished produces due to the presence of high molecular weight components like lignin, cellulose, hemicelluloses in the different varieties of banana under study.\r\npH. pH of Poovan, Nendran, Monthan, Karpooravalli, Ney Poovan, Grand Naine and red banana varieties were 7.8, 7.2, 7.6, 6.1, 7.4, 7.1 and 6.5 respectively. It shows that Poovan (7.8) variety recorded the highest pH value and Karpooravalli (6.1) has the lowest value. Tiroutchelvame et al. (2019) also reported a pH value was 6.02 at 70°C drying temperature of banana pseudostem in the variety Poovan. Though the reports are in accordance with the earlier findings, the reason for the difference in pH value might be due to genetic and genomic constitution of the varieties and growing conditions.\r\nTotal soluble solids (TSS). Total soluble solids are solid substances which are dissolved in a substance or product. Brix values are important parameters because it is related to flavor and sweetness of the product. Table 1 shows the total soluble solids (˚Brix) of the seven varieties of banana pseudostem ranged from 0.6 to 3.0˚Brix. The highest TSS observed in the variety Karpooravalli (3.0˚Brix) and lowest value in the variety Ney Poovan (0.6˚Brix). Similar studies conducted by Tiroutchelvame et al. (2019) shows the total soluble solids of 1.2 ˚Brix in the banana pseudostem flour in the variety Poovan.\r\nAsh content. The ash content of the sample represents the amount of organic matter present in it. If the ash content is high, it indicates the higher amount of minerals present in the sample. It is a part of proximate analysis for nutritional evaluation. Table 1 shows the ash content of the seven varieties of banana pseudostem ranged from varieties 1.8 to 7.8%. The highest ash content was observed in the variety Ney Poovan (7.8%) and lowest value was observed in the variety Poovan (1.8%). Aziz et al.(2011) reported the ash content of native banana pseudostem flour as 3.03% and banana (Musa acuminata × Musa balbisiana Colla cv.Awak) pseudostem flour as 10.08%.Similarly, ash content of 0.8 – 8.47 percent was reported by Lebesi and Tzia (2011) in wheat fibre and rice bran fibre.\r\nTitratable acidity (TA). Titratable acidity of the pseudostem of different banana cultivars is also represented in the Table 1. The result shows that titratable acidity (%) of the seven varieties of banana pseudostem ranged from 0.018 to 0.072%. The highest titratable acidity was observed in the variety Karpooravalli (0.072%) and the lowest acidity was observed in the variety Poovan (0.018%). Ho et al. (2012) reported that BPF (Banana Pseudostem Flour) had a 0.04% Titratable Acidity (TA) in Musa acuminata X balbisiana cv. Awak.\r\nProtein. Proteins are essential for tissue repair and body building processes. It also helps in maintaining body fluids. The protein content (%) of the seven varieties of banana pseudostem ranged from 2.2 to 5.0%. The highest protein content was observed in the variety Monthan (5.0%) whereas lowest was observed in the variety Poovan (2.2%). It was reported that protein content of the banana pseudostem flour of Musa acuminata X balbisiana cv. Awak as 2.7% (Ho et al., 2017). Hence protein in the pseudostem can be used for making low gluten foods like cakes (Sangroula, 2018). As reported by Lebesi and Tzia (2011), the protein content was also in normal range in different commercially available fibre of wheat or oat bran.\r\nTotal carbohydrates. Carbohydrates in banana crop have low glycemic index or low digestibility hence it can be used in functional food as substitution of flour in cookies (Saguilan et al., 2007). Total carbohydrates (%) of the seven varieties of banana pseudostem ranged from 20.5 to 38.8 %. The total carbohydrate was high in the variety Karpooravalli with 38.8 percent. The lowest carbohydrates content was observed in the variety Red Banana with 20.5 percent. Ramu et al. (2017) reported that the total carbohydrate in the banana pseudostem of Musa sp. cv. Nanjangud rasa bale was 46.58 %. The difference may be due to different drying condition or part of pseudostem used. \r\nVitamin C content. Vitamin C (Ascorbic acid) is an essential vitamin for the growth, maintenance and repair of body tissue. Vitamin C content (mg/100g) of the seven varieties of banana pseudostem ranged from 3.4 to 9.5 mg/100g. The Table1 shows that highest vitamin C content was recorded in the variety Karpooravalli (9.5 mg/100 g) and lowest seen in the variety Ney Poovan (3.4 mg/100 g). The observed values were lower than the vitamin C content of banana powder in the variety Poovan (10.5mg/100 g) reported by Harish et al., (2017).','Mydhili M., Pugalendhi L., Indu Rani C., Auxcilia J. and Uma D. (2022). Proximate Composition of Different Varieties of Banana Pseudostem Powder for Nutritional and Biochemical properties. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 14(3): 331-334.'),(5275,'136','A Review of the Role of Integrated Weed Management in the Conservation Agriculture System','Amol Rajkumar Pawar*, Gayatri Kumari, Mayur Patil and Trupti Rajesh Pandit','56 A Review of the Role of Integrated Weed Management in the Conservation Agriculture System Amol Rajkumar Pawar.pdf','',1,'Tillage equipment is typically used by farmers to improve soil structure and manage weeds. However, by repeating this process, they destroy the soil structure and reduce soil fertility. Tillage is minimized or removed entirely in conservation agriculture systems. Conservation agriculture (CA) is becoming more popular around the world as a result of various benefits, including the conservation of soil and water resources, the reconstruction of soil fertility, the protection of soil from erosion, and the reduction of labour requirements. The various approach of integrated weed management is met by applying any acceptable physical, biological, or chemical weed management technique to the existing cultural weed management of conservation agriculture (IWM). IWM is beneficial to conservation agriculture since it aids in the management of weed issues and the lack of certain weed control solutions. The main limitation of CA-based systems is weeds. By uprooting, severing, and burying weeds deeply enough to prevent emergence, transferring weed seeds both vertically and horizontally, and altering the soil environment, tillage influences weed emergence and seed germination. Therefore, any decrease in tillage frequency or intensity may have an impact on the weed invasion. Herbicide usage done carefully can minimize soil tillage and increase soil biodiversity. Last but not least, IWM promotes improved yield per area unit and more effective crop growing. As a result, the topic of integrated weed control in connection to conservation agriculture and environmental sustainability is discussed in this review paper.','Integrated weed management, Conservation Agriculture, Environment','It is permissible to advance interventions such as CA that avoid human-induced soil degradation. The use of CA reduces erosion and some of the other issues that come with tillage. However, the advent of various weed difficulties in California necessitates the incorporation of its inbred weed control component (cover crop, crop residue mulching, and crop rotation) with other weed management tactics without compromising its principles. Acceptance of any compatible physical, biological, or chemical weed management method to the existing cultural weed management of CA satisfies the IWM\'s many strategies. Reduced weed management options in California tend to increase herbicide use, which can result in water contamination, weed resistance, weed flora shift, and pesticide carryover. The IWM monitors herbicide overuse. As a result, incorporating IWM within CA helps to ensure its long-term viability and strengthens its environmental protection focus.','INTRODUCTION\r\nThe need to manage weed infestation has been justified by the reduction in crop productivity caused by the presence of weeds. Several weed management tactics have been tried and tested throughout the years. Tillage, whose primary goal is to generate suitable soil conditions for crops, also serves as a mechanical weed control strategy because weeds are uprooted and buried in the soil. More specifically, repeated tillage operations have been proven to be effective in managing perennial weeds because they can deplete the energy reserve of perennial crops by destroying their storage organs and propagules. Tillage is the process of mechanically manipulating soil and plant waste. It is inextricably linked to conventional agricultural production methods (Farooq & Siddique 2015). Intensive tillage loosens the soil, promotes the release of soil nutrients for crop growth, and changes the circulation of water and air inside the soil, in addition to weed management (Hosseini et al., 2016).\r\nTillage has an impact on soil parameters like temperature, moisture content, bulk density, porosity, and infiltration, all of which have an impact on crop performance (Adebisi et al., 2016).\r\nTillage, on the other hand, is a cause of land deterioration. Intensive tillage can degrade soil quality by causing carbon loss and erosion due to the excessive breakdown of soil aggregates. Tillage reduces the soil\'s water holding capacity, resulting in dryness in soils with little or no plasticity (Singh et al., 2016). Tillage with heavy machinery frequently emits greenhouse gases into the atmosphere and can compact the soil. Conservation agriculture, which emphasises minimal soil disturbance among other components, has arisen as a popular approach in various countries to address the environmental difficulties associated with traditional tillage. Conservation agriculture is practiced on 154 million hectares in the twenty-first century, with an annual expansion of roughly 7 million hectares (Friedrich et al., 2012). Chemical weed management has been the primary technique in developed countries since the introduction of herbicides. Herbicide use has yielded benefits for many years, but the consequences have just recently become apparent. In developed countries, this is the scenario. The herbicides were expensive due to the higher prices of crude oil that had always been imported into these countries, as well as the knowledge and skill required to use them. As a result, the main strategy in these countries is to combine non-chemical treatments with herbicides that are already available. It has been observed that a minor weed today gradually gains importance and becomes a major weed of minor regional or national concern tomorrow. The truth is that it was diverted towards it. The proposed control strategies are primarily for one weed in a stand-alone manner, neglecting the entire system. This is clearly a treatment for that weed, but it is not a cure-all. It inadvertently stimulates the growth and spread of other lesser weeds in the coming years. Once again, the world, the possibilities of discovering a new weed control method, persistence, and residual risks are all factors to consider (Chittapur et al., 1997).\r\n1. Integrated weed management component contributes to\r\n— To prevent agricultural interference, increase the abundance of weed species.\r\n— Dominance of a species in the existing weed flora makeup. The introduction of a new species into the current weed flora.\r\n— Profitability has improved.\r\n— Species succession is changing.\r\n— At the farm level, there is an improvement in overall pest management.\r\n— Acceptance of practices that are beneficial to stakeholders on a social level.\r\nMethods of IWM\r\n(i) Preventive weed management method. Weed seed mingling with crop is one of the most important factors in weed spread. Preventive measures include the use of weed-free crop seeds and equipment, the isolation of imported animals, the scouting for new weeds, and the prevention of weed seed development on the field (Monaco et al., 2002). The major goal of this indirect weed control strategy is to limit the number of weed plants emerging with the crop.\r\nUse clean wheat seed free from weed seeds: Weed seed mingling with crop is one of the most important factors in weed spread. Many of the farmer\'s wheat seeds include weed seeds, particularly Phalaris minor, according to drill box studies. Farmers should utilise seed that has been cleansed or that has been certified.\r\nCultural weed control method: The adjustment of farm techniques to benefit crop development at the expense of weeds is known as cultural weed control. Tillage, sowing time, sowing methods, competitive crop cultivars, increased crop density, closer spacing, irrigation, fertilization, and crop rotation are some of the agronomic measures used in cultural weed management.\r\nSowing time: Weed seed germination should be discouraged by adjusting the sowing method. In comparison to late sowing, early wheat sowing (final week of October) reduces Phalaris minor infestation. The temperature in early sown wheat is inhospitable to Phalaris minor.\r\nCrop rotation: Crop rotation is a key part of weed management in general. Weed invasion is more common in monocultures. Weeds\' life cycle can be broken by planting crops with distinct seeding and maturity times. Rotating crops is primarily used to reduce the weed seed bank in the soil. Crop rotation has been discovered to be a very successful cultural approach in breaking the relationship of troublesome weeds such as P. minor with wheat. According to a survey, Isoproturon resistance in Phalaris minor was found in 67 percent of rice-wheat rotation farms. Phalaris minor populations can be reduced by rotating wheat fields with crops such as sunflower, sugarcane, or berseem.\r\nMulching: Mulching is used to cover the soil when there is no crop present or during the planting season. Mulching blocks light from reaching the soil surface, preventing weeds from germinating. Although nonliving mulch materials such as plastic are frequently employed in many cropping systems, organic mulch (live/green mulch or crop/plant residue) is preferred.\r\nPhysical weed control method: Physical weed control entails breaking, cutting, destroying, burning, or severely injuring weeds with force, heat, or other physical forms of energy (Swarbrick & Mercado, 1987). Physical methods of weed control include hand weeding and mechanical weeding. Grazing, mowing, mulching, tilling, and burning are all part of the process.\r\nBiological weed control method: The employment of natural enemies to lessen the impact of weeds and weed count is known as biological control. It refers to the usage of living beings and biologically derived products (Ehi- Eromosele et al., 2013). Phytopathogenic bio-herbicides, microorganisms, or microbial phytotoxins are used in the same way as conventional herbicides (Boyetchko & Peng 2004).\r\nChemical weed control method: Chemical weed control refers to the application of a synthetic chemical to kill or inhibit the growth of weeds. Herbicides are classified as systemic or non-systemic (contact) based on how they pass through plants. Herbicides are classified as pre-emergence or post-emergence depending on when they are applied. Herbicide selectivity is determined by crop compatibility and the type of weed they control. Herbicides can be a valuable and effective part of any weed-control strategy. Herbicide resistance, on the other hand, is a problem with some species. Increased pesticide use has the potential to harm the environment. The availability of herbicides and the cost of herbicides, however, make chemical weed management difficult to implement (2012, Kughur).\r\nIntegrated Weed Management: Under CA, no single weed management strategy, such as cultural, mechanical, or chemical, could offer the requisite degree of weed control efficiency because to the multiplicity of weed problems. As a result, a variety of weed management options should be studied in order to broaden the weed control range and efficacy for long-term crop production.\r\nThe term \" Integrated weed management system\" refers to a collection of cost-effective, dependable, and practicable weed management strategies that can be employed by farmers as part of a competent farm management system. This strategy considers the need to maximize agricultural productivity while reducing economic losses, human health risks, and potential damage to flora and fauna, as well as increasing environmental safety and quality. The integrated weed management system is not intended to replace selective, safe, and effective herbicides; rather, it is a sensible approach for encouraging the prudent use of herbicides in conjunction with other safe, effective, cost-effective, and environmentally friendly control strategies. For efficient weed management, clean crop seeds and seeders should be combined with field sanitation (weed-free irrigation canals and bunds). The weed control efficiency of sprayed herbicides and competitiveness against weeds are improved by combining appropriate agronomic practices, timeliness of operations, fertilizer and water management, and crop residues remaining on the soil surface. To develop sustainable and effective weed management strategies under CA systems, practices such as stale seedbed practice, uniform and dense crop establishment, use of cover crops and crop residues as mulch, crop rotations, and practices for enhanced crop competitiveness with a combination of pre and postemergence herbicides should be integrated (Singh et al., 2015).\r\nAdvantages of IWM\r\n— IWM is regarded as a more practical and long-term technique, as a combination of treatments will take care of weeds in their whole, preventing weed seed development and soil seed bank replenishment.\r\n— It will lower the likelihood of weed flora shift, herbicide resistance weeds, and other ecological problems.\r\n— It could be used in conjunction with integrated pest management to eliminate weeds, which serve as a breeding ground for a variety of insect pests and illnesses.\r\n— In the long run, it will yield a higher net return, especially when cropping intensity is increased.\r\n— It\'s especially beneficial when there\'s a lot of cropping going on.\r\nDisadvantages of IWM\r\n— It\'s not easy to find IWM that are mutually compatible, supportive of one another, and that match the diversity of weed species.\r\n— An IWM will not apply consistently to all crops in all locations.\r\n— Based on a variety of parameters including soil, crops, climate, and production practices, IWM is very site-specific and cropping system-specific.\r\n— It\'s more of an idea than a method of weed control in the traditional sense. Its effectiveness may fluctuate over time and space due to changes in the efficacy of weed control strategies combined.\r\n','Amol Rajkumar Pawar, Gayatri Kumari, Mayur Patil and Trupti Rajesh Pandit (2022). A Review of the Role of Integrated Weed Management in the Conservation Agriculture System. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 14(3): 335-339.'),(5276,'136','Studies on Postharvest Quality and Shelf Life of Pink Fleshed Dragon Fruit (Hylocereus spp.) Coated with Chitosan and Stored at Ambient Temperature','R. Prashanth, A. Kiran Kumar, M. Rajkumar and K. Aparna','Studies on Postharvest Quality and Shelf Life of Pink Fleshed Dragon Fruit (Hylocereus Spp.) Coated with Chitosan and Stored at Ambient Temperature R. Prashanth-57.pdf','',1,'Dragon fruit undergoes rapid senescence during storage. This study identified the synergistic effect of chitosan coating with different concentrations on the postharvest quality and shelf life of dragon fruits stored at ambient conditions. This study was conducted in completely randomized design. Dragon fruits were coated with 2 %, 3 %, and 4 % chitosan solution and stored at ambient temperature for 14 days. Changes in fruit’s physiological loss of weight(PLW), firmness, shelf life, total soluble solid (TSS), titratable acidity (TA), reducing sugars, total sugars, ascorbic acid as well as decay rate were periodically recorded. The results indicated that the chitosan coating with 4 % significantly reduced the decrease of PLW, firmness, TSS, TA, ascorbic acid content and partially inhibited decay. These results also showed that chitosan coating @ 4%is the most effective treatment for improving the postharvest quality and prolong the shelf life of dragon fruits when stored at ambient condition.','Dagon fruit (Hylocereus spp.), Chitosan, Coating, Post-harvest quality, Shelf life, Ambient storage','In conclusion, the experiment conducted here indicated that the application of chitosan coating, especiallyT3-Chitosan 4% recorded significantly higher results in terms of minimum PLW, decay percent and highest firmness, shelf life and quality parameter namely TSS,TA, sugars and ascorbic acid content. It was followed by T2-chitosan 3% in pink fleshed dragon fruits storage at ambient conditions. ','INTRODUCTION\r\nDragon fruit (Hylocereus spp.) is diploid (2n = 22) and belongs to the genus Hylocereus of the family Cactaceae and subfamily Cactoideae. Dragon fruit has gained global attention due to its prominent vivid red color, delicate flavor and nutritional value. The major constraints in dragon fruit during storage is the short shelf life it is due to several factors such as high respiration, weight loss and increased ripening process which causes shriveling of fruit after the eighth day of harvesting (Ali et al., 2013). In tropical regions, the main factor which reduces the shelf life of fruit is high temperature, which results in high respiration of fruit, rapid ripening and thus early deterioration of fruit quality. The chemical composition of fruit during ripening changes dramatically and depends on texture, flavour, titratable acidity and ascorbic acid content.\r\nMany physical and chemical processes have been developed to preserve fresh fruits and vegetables, among them adequate packaging is one of the most commonly used technique.\r\nChitosan, a natural alkaline polysaccharide, has become one of the most popular edible film materials in recent years owing to its non-toxicity and superior biocompatibility. Chitosan is widely used as a food additive and a suitable alternative to synthetic fungicides for treating postharvest fruits and vegetables (Romanazzi et al., 2017). Chitosan as a natural and environmentally friendly compound is obtained from deacetylation of chitin (Khoshgozaran Abras et al., 2012). Chitosan and its derivatives increase shelf life of a wide range of vegetables and fruits by inhibiting decay. So, one of interest application of this biopolymer is products preservation because of its ability to be used as coating materials (Chien et al., 2007; Devlieghere et al., 2004; Qiuping and Wenshui 2007; Sabir et al., 2019). The function of chitosan as an antimicrobial material attributed to amino groups or hydrogen bonding between chitosan and extra cellular polymers (Hughes et al., 1994). As a biopolymer, chitosan has excellent film forming properties and is able to form a semipermeable film on fruit which may modify the internal atmosphere, as well as decrease weight loss and shriveling due to transpiration and improve overall fruit quality (Hong et al., 2012; Xing et al., 2011). Chitosan coating maintains fruit quality during storage by preventing the loss of fruit weight, soluble solid contents, vitamin C, titratable acidity, and firmness (Chiabrando and Giacalone, 2013; Lin et al., 2020; Romanazzi et al., 2002). Krishna and Rao (2014) reported that chitosan treatment (1%) extending the shelf life of guava up to 7 days by delaying ripening and preventing physiological loss in weight. Chitosan formulated with cassava starch significantly preserved fruit weight, color, aroma and texture of mango and increased shelf life by decreasing the respiration rate without negative effect on the fruit ripening (Camatariet al., 2018).\r\nKeeping all these in view, the present investigation was undertaken to study the effect of different concentrations of chitosan as an edible coating on postharvest quality and shelf life of pink fleshed dragon fruits stored at ambient conditions.\r\nExperimental site. The experiment was conducted at PG laboratory, Sri Konda Laxman Telangana State Horticultural University, College of Horticulture, Rajendranagar, Hyderabad.\r\n MATERIAL AND METHODS\r\nFruits. Dragon fruits used for the research were procured from Deccan exotics dragon fruit farm, Sangareddy, Telangana, which was located at 17°34’29” N latitude and 78°0’58” E longitude and at an elevation of 520m mean sea level.\r\nChemicals. All chemicals used in experimentation and analysis were of analytical grade, purchased from Standard Indian Chemical companies.\r\nMethodology:\r\nPreparation of chitosan solution. After sorting and grading, healthy fruits were divided in to four equal lots. Chitosan solutions at concentrations of 2%, 3% and 4% were prepared according to the method described by (Ali et al. 2013).\r\nBriefly,2%, 3% and 4% chitosan solution were prepared by dissolving 20g, 30g and 40g of chitosan powder in 1000ml of distilled water and 10 ml of acetic acid. The solution was followed by stirring using an overhead stirrer at a speed of 500 rpm for 20 min till a transparent solution is obtained.\r\nMethod of application of treatments. Fresh and fully matured uniform sized and disease-free dragon fruits were washed with tap water to remove the dirt and dust particles and dried at room temperature.\r\nThe dipping treatment of chitosan coating to all the samples was done at ambient conditions for 10 minutes and stored at ambient temperature. The analysis of the fruits was done at every 2 days interval.\r\nExperimental details\r\nTreatments \r\n• T1 - Chitosan 2%, T2 - Chitosan 3%, T3 - Chitosan 4%, T4 - Control\r\nObservations recorded\r\nPhysiological loss in weight (%). Physiological loss in weight (PLW) was determined by recording the initial weight of the fruits on the day of initiating experiment and subsequently at two days interval. The loss of weight in grams and in relation to initial weight was calculated and expressed in percentage.\r\nPLW(%)= (Initial weight - Final weight)/(Initial weight) ×100\r\nDecay (%): The percent decay (%) of fruits was calculated on the number basis by counting number of fruits decayed and total fruits at each storage interval. The decay was calculated as follows\r\nDecay (%)= (Number of spoiled fruits)/(Total number of fruits) ×100\r\nFruit firmness (Kg cm-2). Penetrometer was used to record the firmness of fruits and direct readings were obtained in terms of kg cm-2. The sample fruits were subjected to penetrometer by pressing near the center of the fruit and direct reading on the scale was recorded at two days intervals.\r\nShelf Life (days). Shelf life of the fruits was determined by recording the number of days the fruits remained in good condition in storage. The stage where in more than 50 per cent of the stored fruits became unfit for consumption was considered as end of shelf life in that particular treatment and expressed as mean number of days (Padmaja and Bosco 2014).\r\nTotal Soluble Solids (o B). Total Soluble solids were determined (AOAC, 1965) by using refractometer expressed as ˚B. A drop of the homogenized dragon fruit pulp was squinted on the prism of refractometer and observing the coincidence of shadow of the sample with the reading on the scale and mean values in ˚B were expressed as total soluble solids. The percentage of TSS was obtained from direct reading on the instrument.\r\nTitratable acidity (%). Titratable acidity (TA) Titratable acidity was determined by adding 2 drops of 0.1% phenolphthalein solution to 5 mL of fruit juice and titration against 0.1 N NaOH until the pH reached 8.1. The fruit juice was obtained by homogenizing 10 g of fruit pulp from a mixture of 4 fruit in a kitchen blender with 10 mL of purified water. The mixture was centrifuged at 5000 × g for 5 min and then filtered through a cheese cloth. The results were expressed as percentage of citric and l-lacticacids (mg/100 g of fresh weight) (Ali et al., 2013).\r\nTotal Sugars (%). Total sugars were estimated by taking above 50 ml sample in volumetric flask. To this sample, five ml of HCl was added, mixed well and allowed to stand for overnight. On next day, acid was then neutralized with NaOH using a drop of phenolphthalein as an indicator till the pink colour persisted for at least few seconds. After this the final volume of the sample was made 100 ml by adding distilled water and total sugars were estimated then by titrating sample against the Fehling solution (5 ml A+ 5 ml B) using methylene blue as an indicator and the titration was done till the appearance of brick red colour as in reducing sugars. The results were expressed in percentage.\r\nTotal sugars (%)=\r\n (Factor*volume made up)/(Titre value*weight of sample )×100\r\nReducing Sugars (%). The reducing sugars were determined by the method of Lane and Eyon (AOAC, 2006). The results were expressed in percentage.\r\nTotal sugars (%)\r\n = (Factor*volume made up)/(Titre value*weight of sample )*100\r\nAscorbic acid content (mg 100g-1)\r\nThe indophenol-xylene extraction method for ascorbic acid and modifications for interfering substances by (Robinson and Stotz,1945).\r\nResult. Ascorbic acid of the sample = ………. mg per 100 mg.\r\nStatistical analysis. The design adopted was completely randomized design (CRD) and the data was processed at the Computer centre, Professor Jayashankar Telangana State Agricultural University, Rajendranagar, Hyderabad using the established statistical analysis as per the procedure (window stat version 9.1) outlined by Murali Khetan (2012). Significance was tested by ‘F’ value at 5 per cent level of significance.\r\nRESULTS AND DISCUSSION\r\nPhysiological loss of weight \r\nApplication of chitosan coating retarded the weight loss of dragon fruits during storage compared to the control. There was an added benefit to control of weight loss by increasing concentrations of chitosan from 2 to 4%. The lowest weight loss was found in 4% chitosan followed by 3 and 2% chitosan and then uncoated after 14 days of storage. The highest weight loss (10.56) was observed in untreated dragon fruits at the 8th day of storage, whereas the lowest weight loss (1.56) was observed in fruits coated with 4% chitosan at the same day of storage as shown in the Table 1.Among the chitosan concentrations, 4% resulted in the best in terms of controlling weight loss of dragon fruit during storage. Similar results were demonstrated by (Nguyen et al., 2021).\r\nDecay (%). The effect of chitosan coating on the decay of dragon fruit stored at room temperature at different intervals is presented in Table 2, the percent decay values showed an increasing trend from the 2nd day to 14th day during storage. On the 2nd and 4th day of storage at ambient conditions, the fruits appeared fresh without any change on their surface. Hence percent decay values for chitosan coated fruits and control recorded (0).On the 8th day of storage T4 -Control recorded the highest decay percent (20) followed by T1-Chitosan @ 2% (10), T2-Chitosan @3% (4) percent decay. While T3-Chitosan @4% (0) or no decay. A similar trend of increasing decay percent was observed up to the 14th day of storage under ambient conditions.\r\nAmong all the treatments, fruits treated with chitosan @ 4% showed minimum score. Similar results were demonstrated by (Woolf et al., 2006).\r\nFirmness (kg cm-2). Fruit firmness is often the first of many quality attributes judged by the consumer and is, therefore, extremely important in overall product acceptance. Dragon fruit suffers a rapid loss of firmness during senescence which contributes greatly to its short postharvest life and susceptibility to fungal contamination. Changes in flesh firmness between control and coated fruit samples during 14 days of storage at ambient conditions are shown in Table 3. Initial flesh firmness values were similar for control and coated samples. On the 2nd day of storage uncoated dragon fruits began to show a gradual loss of firmness.On the 2nd day, fruits treated with T3-Chitosan @ 4% recorded the highest value of firmness (6.04) followed by T2-Chitosan @ 3% (5.52), T1-Chitosan @ 2% (5.20) while the lowest firmness was recorded was noticed in T4 -Control (5.06). A similar trend of decreasing firmness of dragon fruits with the increase in storage period was observed up to 14th day at ambient conditions. On the 14th day of storage, except T3- Chitosan @4% (2.04) all other treatments noticed the end of shelf life. From the result, it is observed that the highest firmness was observed with fruits treated with Chitosan coated with 4%. The progressive loss of firmness is the result of a gradual transformation of protopect in into pectin which is degraded by the enzyme poly galacturonate in the cell wall as reported by Hobson (1968). Maximum deterioration and minimal degree of firmness indicate the maximum quality degradation. The highest firmness may be due to a low rate of respiration due to the application of surface coating which slowdowns the metabolic activity of fruits leading to retention of firmness in fruits. The findings are in accordance with (Ali et al., 2013) in dragon fruit, (Rama Krishna and Sudhakar Rao 2014).\r\nShelf life. The data pertaining to the Shelf life of dragon fruits treated with chitosan coating is presented in Table 4.The highest shelf life of (13.80 days) was recorded in T3-Chitosan @4% dragon fruit followed by T2-Chitosan @3% (10.60days), T1-Chitosan @2% (9.80 days) while the lowest shelf life was recorded in T4-Control (7.80 days).Dragon fruits treated with Chitosan 4% recorded the highest shelf life as chitosan coatings reduce shrinkage by reducing loss of moisture, transpiration and respiration losses thereby retaining the freshness of the fruits.\r\nThe present results are in conformity with the findings of (Chutichudet and Chutichudet, 2011) in dragon fruit, (Hening, 1975) in apple ber, (Sandeep and Bal 2003) in apple ber, (Sabir and Sabir 2009) in table grape and (Romanazziet al., 2009) in table grape.\r\nTotal soluble solids. The effect of chitosan coating at ambient storage condition of dragon fruits on total soluble solids is presented in Table 5. Total soluble solids increase with the storage period in room temperature up to the 6th day and it starts decreasing from the 8th day except for T3-Chitosan @4%.On the 2nd day, of storage the highest TSS was recorded in T4-Control (15.56) which was followed by T1-Chitosan @2% (15.16) and the lowest TSS was noticed inT2-Chitosan@3% (14.36) which was statistically on par with T3 -Chitosan @ 4% (14.24). On the 8th day, started decreasing TSS in T1-Chitosan @2% (16) followed by T4-Control (15.17), T2-Chitosan @3% (15). Whereas in T3-Chitosan @4% (14.88) increasing in TSS was noticed. The similar trend was observed on 10th, 12th and 14th day of storage.On the 14th day of storage, except T3-Chitosan @4% all other treatments showed the end of shelf life with T3-Chitosan @4% recorded highest TSS value (15).\r\nHylocereus species with white flesh have higher soluble solids contents than those with red flesh fruit and the distribution of soluble solids in the fruit flesh is not homogeneous, the core part being richer in sugars than the peripheral part (Wu et al., 1997). A large percentage of the soluble solids in dragon fruit are sugars mainly glucose and fructose that are central and are involved in cell respiration and synthesis and the third sugar is sucrose that is non-reducing by nature and presents relatively in smaller amounts.\r\nFrom the above results, it can be concluded that the fruits treated with Chitosan 4% recorded a slower increase in TSS. The fruits treated with higher concentrations could have been due to slowing down the rate of respiration and metabolic activity, hence retarding ripening (Ali et al., 2013) in dragon fruit, (Jafarizadeh et al., 2011).\r\nTitratable acidity (%). The effect of surface coating at ambient storage condition of dragon fruits on titratable acidity of dragon fruit stored at room temperature affected by surface coating was presented in Table 6. The acidity of fruits decreases with the progress in the storage period.\r\nThere was no significant difference among treatments in ambient storage conditions on the 2nd day of storage. On the 4th day fruits treated with T3-Chitosan@4% recorded the highest value of titratable acidity (0.42) followed by T2-Chitosan @3% (0.37) which was on par with T1-Chitosan @2% (0.35). While the lowest was recorded in T4 -Control (0.33). A similar trend was noticed with respect to titratable acidity content on the 6th and 8th day respectively.\r\nOn the 10th day, fruits treated with T3-Chitosan recorded the highest value of titratable acidity (0.26) followed by T2-Chitosan @3% (0.20), T1-Chitosan @2% (0.15) whereas T4- Control showed the end of shelf life, similar trend was observed on 12th and 14th day of storage. On the 14th day of storage, except T3-Chitosan @4% all other treatments showed the end of shelf life. In T3-Chitosan @4%titrable acidity content recorded was (0.12).\r\nTitratable acidity (TA) values decreased in chitosan coated and uncoated fruit, with a significant difference after 14 days of storage. However, the maximum decrease in TA was recorded in the control fruit, while a slight decrease was observed in fruit treated with T3-Chitosan @4%.Titratable acidity of fruits decreases due to the increase of soluble sugars during ripening. This decrease was observed less in fruits coated with surface coating compared to control due to edible coatings. Similar findings were reported by (Ali et al., 2013) in dragon fruit and (Baviskar et al., 1995) in ber fruits where acidity decreased continuously towards the end of the storage period regardless of post-harvest treatments and storage conditions.\r\nTotal sugars (%). The effect of chitosan coating on total sugars present in dragon fruit is represented in the Table 7. Total sugars content increased with the storage period at room temperature from 1st day to the 8th day.\r\nOn the 2nd day, the highest total sugars content was recorded in T4 -Control (8.04) followed by T1-Chitosan @2% (7.80), T2-Chitosan @3% (7.70) and the lowest total sugars content was noticed in T3-Chitosan @4% (7.64). A similar trend was noticed with respect to total sugar content on the 4th, 6th,8th and 10th day respectively. On the 12th day of storage, the highest total sugar content was recorded in T3-Chitosan @4% (7.92) and all other treatments showed the end of shelf life. On the 14th day of storage, T3-Chitosan @4% recorded total sugar content (7.42), all other treatments showed the end of shelf life. \r\nThe results of this study revealed that T3-Chitosan 4% was the best treatment, chitosan treatments formed a semi-permeable film around the fruit which suppressed ethylene production and restored TSS content in the fruit. Suppression of respiration also slows down the synthesis and use of metabolites resulting in lower TSS due to the slower hydrolysis of carbohydrates to sugars. Our results are in line with those of (Kittur et al., 2001) where a slow rise in total sugar content was recorded in mango and banana treated with chitosan.\r\nThe total sugars content increased during the storage period in all treatments. The raise in sugars may be due to conversion of starch into sugars. Similar observation was reported by (Nerd et al., 1999) in dragon fruit and (Ramchandra and Ashok 1997) in ber.\r\nReducing sugars (%). The effect of chitosan coating on reducing sugars of dragon fruit are presented in Table 8. On the 2nd day, the highest reducing sugar content was recorded in T4 -Control (3.95) which was on par with T1-Chitosan @2% (3.95) and T2-Chitosan @3% (3.94) and the lowest reducing sugars was noticed in T3-Chitosan @4% (3.79).\r\nOn the 4th day highest reducing sugar content was recorded in T4-Control (4.18) followed by T1-Chitosan @2% (4.10), T2-Chitosan @3% (4.00) and the lowest reducing sugars were noticed in T3-Chitosan @4% (3.88). A similar trend was noticed with respect to reducing sugar content on the 6th, 8th, 10th and 12th day respectively. On the 14th day of storage, except T3-Chitosan @4% all other treatments showed the end of shelf life. T3-Chitosan @4% recorded reducing sugar content (4.96).\r\nThe total and reducing sugars were increased in all treatments. The raise in sugars may be due to conversion of starch into sugars during storage. Similar observation was reported by (Nerd et al 1999) in dragon fruit and (Ramchandra and Ashok 1997) in ber.\r\nAscorbic acid content (mg/100g). Ascorbic acid content in dragon fruit pulp gradually decreased during storage and this reduction was effectively inhibited by 3 and 4% chitosan coating as shown in Table 9. On the 2nd day, there was a significant difference observed among the treatments with the highest ascorbic acid content in T3-Chitosan @ 4% (9.98) followed by T2-Chitosan @ 3% (9.86) which was on par with T1-Chitosan @ 2% (9.84) and T4-Control (9.78). On the 4th day, fruits treated with T3-Chitosan @ 4% recorded the highest value of ascorbic acid content (9.85), which was on par with T2-Chitosan @3% (9.81), T1-Chitosan @ 2% (9.77) while the lowest was recorded in T4-Control (9.60). A similar trend was noticed with respect to ascorbic acid content on the 6th, 8th, 10th and 12th day respectively. On the 14th day of storage, ascorbic acid content recorded in T3-Chitosan @4% was (8.62).\r\nDragon fruits coated with Chitosan 4% recorded the highest ascorbic acid content. The decreasing trend of ascorbic acid is less in chitosan coated fruits compared to control where there is a rapid decrease of ascorbic acid. This may be due to an increase in total soluble sugars in the fruits and it also suggests that the modified atmosphere created by chitosan coating suppresses the loss of ascorbic acid.The results obtained were close to the findings of (Jagtar Singh et al., 1978) in ber. \r\n','R. Prashanth, A. Kiran Kumar, M. Rajkumar and K. Aparna (2022). Studies on Postharvest Quality and Shelf Life of Pink Fleshed Dragon Fruit (Hylocereus spp.) Coated with Chitosan and Stored at Ambient Temperature. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 14(3): 340-347.'),(5277,'136','Effect of Nutrient Formulation on Shelf Life and Quality Attributes of Papaya (Carica papaya L.)','Moganapathi B., C. Kavitha, L. Pugalendhi and M.K. Kalarani','58 Effect of Nutrient Formulation on Shelf Life and Quality Attributes of Papaya (Carica papaya L.) C. Kavitha.pdf','',1,'Papaya is a nutritionally rich fruit crop containing more of vitamins and nutrients and requires proper nutrient management for enhancing shelf life and quality of the fruits. A field experiment was conducted to study the effect of nutrient formulation on shelf life and quality attributes of papaya at College Orchard, Horticultural College and Research Institute, TNAU, Coimbatore during 2021-2022. The current study involved four treatments viz., T1- Recommended dose of NPK + Foliar application of nutrient formulation at bimonthly interval (3rd, 5th and 7th month after planting), T2 - Recommended dose of NPK + Foliar application of nutrient formulation at monthly interval (3rd, 4th, 5th, 6th and 7th month after planting), T3 - Recommended dose of NPK + Foliar spray of Zinc sulphate (0.5%) + Boric acid (0.1%) + Calcium nitrate (0.5%) + Potassium sulphate (0.25%) at bimonthly interval (3rd, 5th and 7th MAP), T4- Control (Recommended dose of NPK alone) with five replications in randomized block design. The results indicated that the foliar application of nutrient formulation at monthly interval (T2) was significantly superior over rest of the treatments. The fruits obtained from T2 had increased shelf life and quality attributes.','Papaya, Nutrient formulation, Foliar application, Shelf life, Quality parameters','The results from the present study clearly indicated that foliar application of nutrient formulation, had a positive effect in enhancing the biochemical constituents and directly contributed for enhancing the quality attributes and shelf life of papaya fruits. Hence the experiment could be concluded that foliar application of nutrient formulation at monthly interval (3rd, 4th, 5th, 6th and 7thMAP)] along with the application of recommended dose of fertilizer improves the shelf life and quality attributes of papaya fruits.','INTRODUCTION\r\nPapaya (Carica papaya L.) often described as the \"Wonder fruit of the tropics,\" is a member of the Caricaceae family. Papaya originated from Tropical America and was brought to India in the 16th century through Philippines and Malaysia. A total of 57.80 MT of papaya is produced in India from 1.44 lakh hectares, contributing to 48% of the total papaya production in the world. Due to its year-round production, high productivity, greater economic returns and nutritional and therapeutic values, papaya cultivation is becoming more important in the recent past. India, Brazil, Nigeria, Indonesia, Thailand, Taiwan and Mexico are the major papaya producing countries in the world and in India leading producers are Andhra Pradesh, Gujarat, Karnataka, West Bengal, Madhya Pradesh, Maharashtra and Tamil Nadu (NHB, 2020).\r\nPapaya fruit is highly nutritious and is rich in vitamins (A, C, folate, riboflavin), calcium and fibre and the ripe fruit is highly suitable for dessert purpose. In India, pickles and salads are made from the mature but unripe fruit. Further, fruits are processed into candies, smoothies, tutti-frutti, jam, nectar, wine, syrup, dehydrated flakes and infant meals. The proteolytic enzyme papain, which is used in the pharmaceutical, beer, meat, dairy, textile, photographic, optical, tanning, cosmetic, food and leather industries for its antibacterial, antiulcer and anti-carcinogenic properties, is present in the latex tapped from the stem and immature fruit surface.Due to its multifaceted uses, this fruit is becoming more popular in the domestic and international markets and thereby its global trade is growing (Ali et al., 2015). However, papaya marketing is restricted due to extreme short shelf life connected with quick weight loss, pulp softening and susceptibility to postharvest infections, which is the greatest concern of papaya growers (Ayón-Reyna et al., 2015; Madani et al., 2014; Ong et al., 2013).\r\n For production of high-quality fruits, application of nutrients at various appropriate growth and development stages is considered to be necessary. For proper crop growth and for production of good quality fruits, application of major nutrients such as nitrogen, phosphorus, potassium and micronutrients such as zinc and boron are necessary. In addition, foliar application of calcium and sulphur was found to have a pronounced effect on quality of papaya (Monika et al., 2018). Besides having a rich source of vitamins and carotenoids, papaya has a relatively shorter shelf life and is characterized by increased respiration and ethylene evolution during ripening which leads to fruit softening and easy susceptibility to postharvest diseases as well as losses. Postharvest loss in papaya is reported to be 40-100%. Thus, there is a need to improve the shelf-life and quality attributes of papaya through crop management practices. In view of this, a study was conducted to understand the effect of nutrient formulation containing cow dung, neem cake, Bacillus subtilis along with macro and micronutrients through foliar application for the production of quality fruits.\r\nMATERIALS AND METHODS\r\nThe field trial was conducted at the College Orchard, Horticultural College and Research Institute, TNAU, Coimbatore to assess the effect of foliar application of nutrient formulation on shelf life and quality attributes of papaya variety CO 8 during the year 2021-22. Soil type of the field was sandy clayey loam with pH, EC,, available Nitrogen, Phosphorus and Potassiumof7.74, 0.67dS/m, 217 kg/ha, 11 kg/ha and 685 kg/ha respectively. The study was conducted with four treatments replicated five times as detailed below.\r\nThe papaya seedlings of 45 days old were transplanted to the main field adopting a spacing of 1.8m×1.8m. Regular cultural operations were followed as per the recommendations given in TNAU Crop Production Guide. The nutrient formulation and micronutrients were given through foliar application as per the treatment. The fruits were harvested at colour break stage and analysed for various quality parameters viz., shelf life, physiological loss in weight (PLW), TSS, acidity, ascorbic acid, total sugars, reducing and non-reducing sugars, β-carotene and lycopene content. The fruits were kept at ambient condition (temperature: 25±2°C, RH: 75±5%) to estimate the shelf-life (days) and physiological loss in weight (%). The TSS was measured using hand refractometer, total sugars (%) was determined by the method of Hedge and Hofreiter (1962) while reducing sugars (%) and non- reducing sugars (%) were determined by the method as suggested by Somogyi (1952). Acidity, ascorbic acid (mg/100 g), lycopene content (mg/100 g), β-carotene (mg/100 g) content were estimated by A.O.A.C method (1960); Rosenberg (1945); Rodriguez Amaya et al. (1983); Ranganna (1977) methods respectively. Statistical analysis of data was done by adopting statistical procedures as per the methods outlined by Panse and Sukhatme (1967).\r\nRESULTS AND DISCUSSION \r\nThe present study was undertaken to assess the influence of foliar spray of nutrient formulation at monthly and bimonthly interval from 3rd to 7th MAP to assess the shelf life and quality attributes viz., shelf life, physiological loss in weight, total soluble solids, titrable acidity, ascorbic acid, total sugars, reducing sugars, non-reducing sugars, lycopene and carotenoid in papaya and the results are furnished in Table 1.\r\nIn the present study, the application of different treatments significantly influenced the shelf life and it ranged from 3.4 to 6.6 days under ambient storage. The maximum shelf life of 6.6 days was registered in the fruits obtained from the treatment with foliar spray of nutrient formulation at monthly interval (T2), followed by bimonthly interval (T1). The minimum duration of 3.4 days shelf life was observed in control. Shelf-life is an important parameter that implies the storage life of fresh fruits. In the present study, an increase in shelf-life was observed in the treatment T2 and the direct or indirect influence of calcium on fruit ripening attributes such as respiration and ethylene production might be the reason for improving shelf life in papaya (Picchioni et al., 1996). The similar results were reported by earlier workers in papaya (Monika et al., 2018; Reena, 2022).\r\nThe physiological loss of weight during the storage of fruits was studied at two different days of storage period viz., 3rd and 5thday.The different treatments significantly influenced the loss of weight during the storage of fruits. The highest weight loss of 7.03 % and 9.48 % was observed in control (T4) at 3rd and 5th day respectively. Minimum loss of weight was observed in the treatment receiving foliar spray of nutrient formulation at monthly interval (T2) (6.20%) which was comparable with bimonthly interval (T1) (6.34). The physiological loss of weight at 3rd and 5th day of storage clearly indicated that the loss was more at 5th day than at 3rd day and this may be due to the contribution of calcium and potassium in reducing weight loss. Calcium nitrate has a vital role in delayed senescence, preserving cellular organization and retarding respiration rate and maintaining cell turgor potentials and all these factors might have contributed for fruit firmness (Faust and Shear 1972).\r\nTotal soluble solids differed significantly among the treatments and the values ranged from 10.23 to 12.46°Brix. The foliar spray of nutrient formulation at monthly interval (T2) recorded the highest TSS of 12.46 °Brix and was on par with T1 (11.76 °Brix). The lowest TSS of 10.23 °Brix was recorded by control (T4). The different treatments also significantly influenced titrable acidity in papaya fruits and the titrable acidity ranged from 0.12 to 0.14%. The lowest titrable acidity of 0.12% was recorded in (T2) and was followed by (T1) and (T3) (0.13%). The highest titrable acidity of 0.14 % was recorded in control (T4). It is well reported that acidity decreases in fruits during respiration due to fermentation or break up of acids to sugar (Ball, 1997). In the present study, application of nutrient formulation at monthly interval had maintained lower titrable acidity (0.12 %) compared to the control (0.14 %). This may be due to delayed generative processes because of the presence of calcium. Similar findings were reported by Naik and Sri Hari Babu (2005), who opined that the lowest titrable acidity was recorded with the application of farm yard manure in guava. \r\nIn the present study, significant influence of different treatments was observed for ascorbic acid content of the fruits and the results are presented in Table 1. The ascorbic acid content ranged from 39.98 to 48.55 mg/100g among the different treatments. The foliar spray of nutrient formulation at monthly interval (T2) registered the highest ascorbic acid content of 48.55 mg per 100g of fruits followed by T1 (44.26 mg/100g) which was found to be on par with T3 (42.84 mg/100g). The lowest ascorbic acid content of 39.98 mg per 100g of fruits was registered in control (T4) which clearly indicated that foliar spray of nutrient formulation at monthly interval (T2) was significantly superior over rest of the treatments. Kumar and Kumar (2008) reported that sulphate of potash (SOP) improved the quality of banana as it contains more sulphur, which improved the quality of fruits by enhancing the starch accumulation and better protein synthesis. Potassium and sulphur may have supported the plants in accumulating more ascorbic acid in the fruits by slowing down the enzyme system that stimulate the oxidation of ascorbic acid. In the present study, higher ascorbic acid content was observed due to foliar spray of nutrient formulation at monthly interval from 3rd to 7th MAP (T2)(48.55 mg/100g). The combined application of zinc and iron sulphate significantly increased the quality of pomegranate fruit (Balakrishnan et al., 1996). Similar observations in sweet orange and banana were also reported by Tariq et al. (2007); Kumar and Kumar (2008) respectively.\r\nThe analytical results of papaya fruits with respect to total sugars are given in Table 1. The different treatments influenced significantly, the total sugars content and it ranged from 10.15% to 12.8% among the treatments. The highest total sugars of 12.8 % was recorded in T1 followed by T2 (11.68%) and T3 (10.8%). The treatment T4 (10.15%) registered the lowest content of total sugars. The analysis of reducing sugars in of papaya fruits revealed that application of different treatments significantly influenced reducing sugars and it ranged from 10.04 to 11.10 %. The highest content of reducing sugars was registered in the treatment T1 (11.1%) followed by T2 (10.91%) and were on par with each other. The lowest reducing sugars content of 10.04 % was recorded in the fruits of the treatment T4. The different treatments did significantly influencen on reducing sugar content. The highest content of non- reducing sugars registered in the treatment T1 (1.7%) followed by T2 (0.77 %), T3 (0.41 %), and T4 (0.11%). The lowest reducing sugar content of 0.11 % was analysed in the fruits of T4.\r\nThe combination of sugars and acidity in the fruits contribute to the taste. In the present study, an increase in TSS and total sugars was observed due to the foliar spraying of nutrient formulation at monthly (12.46°Brix; T2) and bimonthly interval (12.8 %; T1) from 3rd to 7th MAP respectively. This might be due to the influence of potassium, which may have been involved in the translocation of sugars, increasing the sugar content owing to the efficient translocation of available photosynthetic constituents from the leaves to the fruits. This results are corroborated with the findings of Wallace (1962) who reported that TSS content in strawberries could be increased by the application of potassium sulphate. The increase in TSS and sugars could be attributed to the conversion of carbohydrates into sugars upon ripening of fruits, while later there is a consumption of sugars and organic acids for respiration. The greater TSS in guava was recorded with animal manures (Naik and Sri Hari Babu 2005). Similar results of increased TSS in papaya fruits with application of poultry manure and farm yard manure were recorded by Ray et al. (2008); Ravishankar and Karunakaran (2008).\r\nThe application of different treatments did significantly influence the β–carotene content and it ranged from 2.91 to 2.21 mg per 100g of fruits. The highest β –carotene content was registered in the treatment receiving foliar spray of nutrient formulation at monthly interval (T2) (2.91 mg/100g) followed by T1 (2.76 mg/100g).The lowest β –carotene content of 2.21 mg per100g fruits was recorded in the treatment T4. In the present study, β –carotene content was comparatively higher in all the treatments when compared with the control. This can be attributed to the synergistic influence of zinc and boron in the accumulation and activation of key enzymes involved in the β-carotene formation (Rath et al., 1980).\r\nThe lycopene content of papaya was significantly influenced by different treatments and the content ranged from 1.94 to 2.24 mg per100g of fruits. The highest content of lycopene was registered in the treatment T1 (2.24 mg/100g) followed by T2 (2.18 mg/100g) and were on par. The lowest lycopene content of 1.94 mg per100g fruits was registered in the control (T4). The lycopene content was the highest in treatment T1 (2.24 mg/100g). This may be due to potassium sulphate or zinc sulphate involved in the study. The application of sulphur significantly increases the content of lycopene and the red colour in tomato (Zelena et al., 2009). Reddy et al. (2014) reported an increase of lycopene content in papaya due to organic practices over the recommended dose of fertilizers.\r\n \r\n','Moganapathi B., C. Kavitha, L. Pugalendhi and M.K. Kalarani (2022). Effect of Nutrient Formulation on Shelf Life and Quality Attributes of Papaya (Carica papaya L.). Biological Forum – An International Journal, 14(3): 348-352.'),(5278,'136','Evaluation of efficacy of botanical and chemical insecticides and residues estimation of pyrethroids against thrips, Thrips tabaci (Lindeman) on onion','Ruby Garg, Bishan Singh, Sangeeta Tiwari, Sunita Yadav, Dalip Kumar and Bajrang Lal Sharma','59 Evaluation of efficacy of botanical and chemical insecticides and residues estimation of pyrethroids against thrips, Thrips tabaci (Lindeman) on onion Ruby Garg.pdf','',1,'Onion is very important vegetable crop used for flavor, cuisine and medical purposes. Thrips are the major pest on onion with losses ranged between 30-100 % and its transmit ‘Iris Yellow Spot Virus. A field experiment was conducted at Research Farm of Department of Vegetable Sciences, CCSHAU, Hisar, to study efficacy of chemical and botanical insecticides against onion thrips (Thrips tabaci L.) and residues estimation in/on onion bulbs and leaves. Nine insecticides including botanicals, Cypermethrin 25 EC, Fenvalerate 20 EC, Lambda-cyhalothrin 5 EC all @ 37.5 g a.i ha-1, Malathion 50 EC @ 375 g a.i ha-1, Neem seed kernel extract (NSKE) and garlic extract (5 and 10 %) and untreated control were tested in RBD with three replication. For the management of thripslambda – cyhalothrin @ 37.5 ga.i ha-1 (4.97 thrips/ plant) and cypermethrin @ 37.5 ga.i. ha-1 (5.34) were the superior and persistent treatments followed by fenvalerate @ 37.5 ga.i. ha-1 (5.79). Cypermethrin residues dissipated below maximum residue limit (MRL) on 7 and 0th day, hence safe waiting period recorded was 7 and 1 day for onion leaves and bulbs respectively. In case of fenvalerate, the Theoritical Maximum Residue Concentration (TMRC) reached below Maximum Permissable Intake (MPI) on zero day in/on onion leaves and bulbs. Therefore the safe waiting period was one day for both leaves and bulbs.','Insecticides, Residues, Thrips, Onion','Onion is very important vegetable crop used for flavor, cuisine and medical purposes. Thrips are the major pest on onion with losses ranged between 30-100 % and its transmit ‘Iris Yellow Spot Virus. A field experiment was conducted at Research Farm of Department of Vegetable Sciences, CCSHAU, Hisar, to study efficacy of chemical and botanical insecticides against onion thrips (Thrips tabaci L.) and residues estimation in/on onion bulbs and leaves. Nine insecticides including botanicals, Cypermethrin 25 EC, Fenvalerate 20 EC, Lambda-cyhalothrin 5 EC all @ 37.5 g a.i ha-1, Malathion 50 EC @ 375 g a.i ha-1, Neem seed kernel extract (NSKE) and garlic extract (5 and 10 %) and untreated control were tested in RBD with three replication. For the management of thripslambda – cyhalothrin @ 37.5 ga.i ha-1 (4.97 thrips/ plant) and cypermethrin @ 37.5 ga.i. ha-1 (5.34) were the superior and persistent treatments followed by fenvalerate @ 37.5 ga.i. ha-1 (5.79). Cypermethrin residues dissipated below maximum residue limit (MRL) on 7 and 0th day, hence safe waiting period recorded was 7 and 1 day for onion leaves and bulbs respectively. In case of fenvalerate, the Theoritical Maximum Residue Concentration (TMRC) reached below Maximum Permissable Intake (MPI) on zero day in/on onion leaves and bulbs. Therefore the safe waiting period was one day for both leaves and bulbs.','INTRODUCTION \r\nOnion (Allium cepa L.) belonging to family Liliaceae is one of the most popular bulb vegetables originating from Central Asia (Brewster, 1994). It has special qualities which add taste and flavour to food as well as medicinal value and hence it is mainly used in India for cuisine and culinary preparations. After China, India is the second largest producer of onion in the world (FAOSTAT, 2019; HSD, 2018). In 2017, the harvested area, yield, and production of dry onion crop was 1.3 million ha, 17.17 tones/ha, and 20.7 million t, respectively (FAOSTAT, 2019). Worldwide, in 2016, India exported 1.83 mt of dry onions thereby generating revenue of US dollar 382.19 million (FAO, 2019). Production of onion is influenced by various biotic (pests and diseases), abiotic (environmental factors: rainfall, temperature, humidity, excess of nitrogen fertilizers, and light). This crop is attacked by numerous insect pests but thrips are the major pest and reported to cause significant economic losses upto 30-50% (Nault and Shelton 2012), but can reach upto 100 %, if they are transmitting ‘Iris Yellow Spot Virus’ which is a to spovirus causing adverse effects on bulb and seed yield of onion crop (Diaz et al., 2011). Thrips are cosmopolitan in distribution and polyphagous which attack alliaceous crops (onion, garlic and leek) and Cucurbitaceae (cucumber, pumpkin, melon and watermelon) (ModarresAwal, 2001; Fekrat et al., 2009), cotton (Nathet al., 2000; Khan et al., 2008), cereals especially wheat. Nymphal and adult stages of thrips feed by scratching tissues of plant resulting in release of cell sap which they feed by sucking. This behavior leads to removal of leaf chlorophyll causing white to silver patches and streaks. Therefore, it is important to protect the onions from thrips damage throughout the entire crop growth period.\r\nIn earlier investigations, bioefficacy, dissipation, and residue dynamics of pyrethroid insecticides have been studied in brinjal (Kaur et al., 2014; Pal, 2018), tea (Samanta et al., 2017), onion (Sumalatha et al., 2017) and chilli (Reddy et al., 2017). Insecticides should be persistent enough to control the pest effectively. But longer persistence of insecticides may affect natural enemies, aggravate the problems of resurgence, resistance and residues. The increasing concern for environmental safety and global demand for pesticide residue free commodities have evolved a keen interest and necessitated a deep insight into methods of processing of the bulbs and leaves in such manner that insecticides residues are washed off . \r\nMATERIALS AND METHODS\r\nA. Efficacy of the test insecticides against onion thrips\r\nField experiment was conducted at the Research Area of Department of Vegetable Sciences located at CCS Haryana Agricultural University, Hisar, India. A total of 30 days old seedlings of onion (cv., Hisar-2) were transplanted in the plots of 25 m2 and standard package of practices were followed to raise the crop. Nine treatments comprising of Cypermethrin 25 EC, Fenvalerate 20 EC, Lambda-cyhalothrin 5 EC all @ 37.5 g a.i ha-1, Malathion 50 EC @ 375 g a.i ha-1 , Neem seed kernel extract (NSKE) and garlic extract (5 and 10 %) and untreated control were laid down in the randomized block design (RBD) with three replications. Insecticide applications were commenced with the visibility of initial symptoms (72 days after transplanting) and repeated after 10 days using knapsack sprayer. Separate sprayers were used for every plot for avoiding the intermixing of pesticides. The pest population data was taken at early morning from 10 randomly selected onion plants from each experimental plots on 0, 3, 7 and 10 days after spray (DAS). The selected onion plants were observed visually from neck portion for estimation of thrips (nymph and adult) population.\r\nB. Field study for persistence and residue dissipation\r\nThe field applications of the agricultural formulations of cypermethrin 25 EC and fenvalerate 20 EC @ 37.5 g a.i ha-1 for persistence and residue dissipation studies were carried out at the location described above. The onion samples (about 1 kg) were collected at random from each replicate of the treated and control plots separately at regular time interval on 0 (2 h after spraying), 3, 7 , 10 days and at harvest. Fruits showing signs of infestation of insect pests, diseases or any physiological disorders were not included in sampling. The samples from each treatment plot were pooled and mixed thoroughly on a sheet of polyethylene in the field. A subsample of about 250 g was taken from each pooled sample from each treatment plot and transported to the laboratory, and a representative 50 g was processed immediately after the subsample reached the laboratory. The onion bulbs and leaves were used for residue analysis directly without processing and after simple processing procedures (washing, peeling etc.).\r\nC. Preparation of analytical standard solutions\r\nThe standard solutions of cypermethrin and fenvalerate were prepared by dissolving 1 mg of cypermethrin and fenvalerate using 100 ml of n- hexane in a volumetric flask. The resulting stock solution was used to prepare working solution. Standard solution was kept in refrigerator at -4°C. Cypermethrin and fenvalerate stock solution was used to prepare solutions of different concentrations for the fortification of control samples for recovery experiments. Standard curve data for cypermethrin and fenvalerate was obtained by injecting 0.25 to 2 µg ml-1standard GC calibration solutions and plotting different amounts injected against X-axis and area of corresponding amounts against Y-axis.\r\nD. Residue analysis and dissipation study\r\nExtraction and cleanup. The samples were processed and analyzed at Pesticide Residue Analysis Laboratory, Department of Entomology, CCS Haryana Agricultural University, Hisar. A representative 50 g sample of chopped and macerated onion was dipped separately overnight into 100 mL acetone in a flask for 24 h. The extract was filtered into a 1-L separatory funnel along with rinsing of acetone. The content was shaken for one hour on mechanical shaker and filtered through a 2-3 cm thick bed of anhydrous sodium sulphate. The filterate was taken in 1 l separating funnel and diluted with 600ml of 10 per cent brine solution. The mixture was extracted thrice with 50, 30, 20 ml portions of hexane with vigorous shaking each time for 1 minute and the upper organic layer was collected in 500 ml flask. This extract was concentrated on rotatary vacuum evaporator at 40°C and further clean-up was done. For this purpose, glass column (60 cm × 2.2 cm ID) was used. Neutral alumina and activated charcoal (5: 1 w/w) were used as adsorbent for clean up. For preparation of column, a cotton plug was put at the bottom of column over which a 5 cm anhydrous sodium sulphate layer was laid. After tapping 10 times, the adsorbent mixture of neutral alumina and activated charcoal (5 g neutral alumina + 0.1 g activated charcoal) was added to the column and tapped again for 10-15 minutes. Above the mixture a layer of anhydrous sodium sulphate (about 5 cm) was made and pre-wetted the column with hexane+acetone, then extract was added and eluted the column with 100 ml hexane: acetone (9:1 v/v) mixture. The cleaned elutes were concentrated on rotary vacuum evaporator. Samples were analysed by GC equipped with electron capture detector 63Ni and capillary column. \r\nGas chromatographic analysis. The GLC (Gas Liquid Chromatography) technique employing ECD63Ni for multi residue analysis of pesticides in vegetables was adopted for analysis of cypermethrin and fenvalerate in/on onion was carried out on a gas liquid chromatography (GLC) (Shimadzu Model GC-2010) supplied by M/S Shimadzu Corporation, Kyoto, Japan. A capillary column HP-1 (30 m×0.25 mm i.d. × 0.25-μm film thickness) with split ratio 1:10 was used for estimation of the insecticides. GC operating parameters were as follows: with carrier gas (N) flow rate, 60 mL min−1; temperature of the injection port, 280 °C; temperature of the detector, 300 °C; and column temperature, 270 °C. The residues of insecticides were estimated by comparing the peak area of the standards with that of the unknown or spiked sample, run under identical experimental conditions. Insecticides residue in mg kg−1 was calculated as follows:-\r\nResidue (mg kg−1) = (A1 × V1 × C) / (A2 × V2 × W) \r\nwhere, A1 = area of field sample in the chromatogram\r\nA1 = area of analytical standard in the chromatogram\r\nV1= total volume of sample in mL\r\nV2 = injected volume in μL\r\nC = concentration of analytical standard in mg kg−1\r\nW = weight of the sample in g.\r\nE. Dissipation kinetics\r\nDissipation of cypermethrin and fenvaletare in onion was studied by subjecting the data to first–order kinetic equation (Hoskins, 1961)\r\nCt= C0e – kt\r\nwhere, Ct is the concentration at time t, C0 is the initial concentration, k is the rate constant for insecticide dissipation, and t is the time.\r\n For calculating half–life (t1/2) of the parent compounds, the residue data was subjected to statistical analysis (Hoskins, 1961) as per the following equation.\r\nt1/2 = ln 2/k\r\nF. Standards and calibration\r\nThe analytical techniques recommended for estimation of microquantities of cypermethrin and fenvalerate was standardized under laboratory conditions before adoption for residue estimation in test samples. Retention times (Rt) observed for cypermethrin was 20.835, 20.955 and 21.082 min. and for fenvalerate were 23.152 and 23.557 min. Chromatograms for cypermethrin and fenvalerate are shown in fig. 1 and 2, respectively. In the present study, analytical data obtained by processing known amount of standard cypermethrin and fenvalerate indicated a linear relationship between area and amount injected as shown in calibration curves. The repeatability of responses, sharp and well resolved peaks of cypermethrin and fenvalerate, the analytical technique was considered satisfactory for adoption in the present investigations.\r\nRESULTS AND DISCUSSION\r\nA. Efficacy of some botanical and chemical insecticides against thrips Thrips tabaci(Lindeman) on onion (1st spray)\r\nThe data on thrips population was started 72 days after transplanting. The effectiveness of various treatments has been recorded on the basis of per cent reduction in thrips population after the spray. The first spray on onion was done at 72 days after transplanting and the second spray was done at 10 days interval after the first spray. Thrips population reduction on 0 DAS, just after first spray ranged from 26.83 to 62.74 % (Table 1). It was highest in cypermethrin @ 37.5 g a.i ha-1 (62.74 %) and minimum in control (26.83 %). The next best treatment was fenvalerate @ 37.5 g a.i ha-1 (60.21 %) followed by NSKE 10 % (58.08 %) and lambda-cyhalothrin @ 37.5 g a.i. ha-1 (57.28 %). Malathion @ 375 g a.i. ha-1 found to be least effective (52.13 %) among all the chemical treatments. Cypermethrin @ 37.5 g a.i ha-1, fenvalerate @ 37.5 g a.i ha-1 and lambda-cyhalothrin @ 37.5 g a.i. ha-1 were statistically at par. \r\n\r\nAmong botanical treatments, NSKE 5 and 10 % observed to statistically at par to all the chemical treatments 0 DAS. Both these treatments were found to be statistically at par with all the chemical treatments. Among all the chemical and botanical treatments garlic extract 5 and 10 % proved to be least effective (50.80 and 52 % respectively). All the treatments were better than control where thrips population reduction (26.83 %) was observed. Data on per cent reduction in thrips population damage on number basis 3 DAS revealed highest thrips population reduction in cypermethrin @ 37.5 g a.i. ha-1 (88.37 %) followed by lambda-cyhalothrin @ 37.5 g a.i. ha-1 (87.98 %), malathion @ 375 g a.i. ha-1 (85.12 %) and fenvalerate @ 37.5 g a.i. ha-1 (81 %). Among botanical treatments NSKE 10 % (76.83 %), garlic extract 10 % (74.98 %) and NSKE 5 % (71.54 %) were statistically at par and it was followed by garlic extract 5 % (68.11 %). All the treatments were statistically better than control (36.49 %). After 7 days of first spray thrips population reduction varied from (28 %) in control to (91.32 %) in lambda-cyhalothrin @ 37.5 g a.i. ha-1. Lambda-cyhalothrin @ 37.5 g a.i. ha-1 (91.32 %), cypermethrin @ 37.5 g a.i. ha-1(89.46 %) and fenvalerate @ 37.5 g a.i. ha-1 (88.08 %) were at par. Malathion @ 375 g a.i. ha-1 (75.81 %) was found to be least effective among all the treatments. Malathion @ 375 g a.i. ha-1 (75.81 %), NSKE 5 % (74.15 %) and NSKE 10 % (73.54 %) were at par and followed by garlic extract 5 and 10 % (64.52 and 68.27 % respectively). At 10 DAS the thrips population reduction varied from 60.24 % in control to 84.70 % in fenvalerate. After first spray, at 10 DAS it was observed that fenvalerate @ 37.5 g a.i. ha-1 proved to be best (84.70 %). Fenvalerate @ 37.5 g a.i. ha-1 (84.70 %), lambda- cyhalothrin @ 375 g a.i. ha-1 (83.63 %) and cypermethrin @ 37.5 g a.i. ha-1 (81.85 %) were statistically at par. Malathion @ 375 g a.i. ha-1 proved to be least effective (77.71 %) among chemical treatments and found statistically at par with all the botanical treatments. Garlic extract 10 % (78.97), NSKE 10 % (78.45 %), malathion @ 375 g a.i. ha-1 (77.71 %), NSKE 5 % and garlic extract 5 % (75.38 %) were statistically at par. All the treatments proved to be better than control (60.24 %).\r\nB. Efficacy of some botanical and chemical insecticides against thrips Thrips tabaci (Lindeman) on onion (2nd spray)\r\nThe second spray was done at 10 days interval after the first spray. The average reduction (%) in thrips population was highest in cypermethrin @ 37.5 g a.i ha-1 (80.60 %) followed by lambda-cyhalothrin @ 37.5 g a.i. ha-1 (80.05 %) and fenvalerate @ 37.5 g a.i ha-1 (78.49 %). These treatments were statistically at par and followed by malathion @ 375 g a.i ha-1 (72.69 %). NSKE 5 and 10 % was statistically at par (69.49 and 71.72 %) respectively and better than garlic extract 5 and 10 % (64.70 and 68.55 % respectively). All the treatments were better than control (37.89 %). Thrips population reduction on 0 DAS, just after first spray ranged from 3.12 to 74 %. It was highest in malathion @ 375 g a.i ha-1 (74 %) and minimum in control (3.12 %). The next best treatment was cypermethrin @ 37.5 g a.i ha-1 (70 %) followed by fenvalerate @ 37.5 g a.i ha-1 (63.41 %), NSKE 10 % (61.81 %) and lambda-cyhalothrin @ 37.5 g a.i. ha-1 (60.97 %). Among botanical treatments, NSKE 5 and 10 % observed to be better (61.81 and 59.01 % respectively), followed by NSKE 5 % (56.63 %). Both these treatments were found to be statistically at par with all the chemical treatments. Among all the chemical and botanical treatments garlic extract 5 and 10 % proved to be least effective (50.80 and 52 % respectively). All the treatments were better than control. Data on per cent reduction in thrips population damage on number basis 3 DAS revealed highest thrips population reduction in cypermethrin @ 37.5 g a.i. ha-1 (88.37 %) followed by lambda-cyhalothrin @ 37.5 g a.i. ha-1 (87.98 %), malathion @ 375 g a.i. ha-1 (85.12 %) and fenvalerate @ 37.5 g a.i. ha-1 (81 %). Among botanical treatments NSKE 10 % (76.83 %), garlic extract 10 % (74.98 %) and NSKE 5 % (71.54 %) were statistically at par and it was followed by garlic extract 5 % (68.11 %). After 7 days of first spray, thrips population reduction varied from (36.49 %) in control to (91.32 %) in cypermethrin @ 37.5 g a.i. ha-1. At 7 DAS all the chemical treatments were better than botanical treatments. NSKE proved to be better than garlic extract treatments. NSKE 10 % was to better than NSKE 5%. Garlic extract 10 % proved statistically better than garlic extract 5 %. All the treatments were better than control. At 10 DAS the thrips population reduction varied from 6.25 % in control to 96 % in cypermethrin. After first spray, it was observed that cypermethrin @ 37.5 g a.i. ha-1 was observed to be most effective (96 %). Among all the treatments cypermethrin @ 37.5 g a.i. ha-1 (96 %) proved to be best followed by lambda- cyhalothrin @ 375 g a.i. ha-1(90.24 %) and fenvalerate @ 37.5 g a.i. ha-1 (90.24 %). Among chemical treatments malathion @ 375 g a.i. ha-1 proved to be least effective (60 %). At 10 DAS, NSKE 5 and 10 % (67.21 and 67.27 % respectively) were observed to be better than malathion and were statistically at par. Garlic extract 5 and 10 % were less effective among all the treatments (59.37 and 61.29 % respectively). After two sprays, cypermethrin @ 37.5 g a.i. ha-1, lambda-cyhalothrin @ 37.5 g a.i. ha-1 and fenvalerate @ 37.5 g a.i. ha-1 were statistically at par followed by malathion @ 375 g a.i. ha-1. Among chemical treatments malathion @ 375 g a.i. ha-1 was least effective. All the chemical treatments were statistically more effective than botanical treatments. \r\nNSKE treatments were more effective than garlic extract treatments. NSKE 10 % was better than NSKE 5 % and garlic extract 10 % was better than galic extract 5 %. NSKE 5 % was at par with garlic extract 10 %. All the treatments proved to be better than control. \r\nThese results also confirmed the earlier reports of Suresh et al. (2006) who conducted in vivo experiment to evaluate efficacy of some insecticides on onion in which the most effective treatment was dimethoate 30 EC at 1ml/litre (73.25) followed by neem oil 3% (64.14), neem gold at 2ml/litre (57.17) & NSKE 5 % (56.06) in controlling thrips. Our results were in conformation with findings of Sule et al. (2008) who observed that all the insecticides were effective against the pest but lambda-cyhalothrin was the most effective, as it recorded the lowest cumulative thrips count (2.63 and 3.62). \r\nOur findings were in the conformity with Upadhyay et al. (2008) who observed that maximum yield recorded in treatment cypermethrin 10 EC @ 0.05 % (130.96 q ha-1). Our findings were in favour of Rudramuni et al. (2011) who used the neem-based formulations named Neemazal, Nimbicidine, Vijayneem, Neemplus, Neemgold, Nimbobas, Multineem, Nimbex and Neem seed kernel extract against sucking pests (aphids, leaf hoppers and thrips) and bollworms and found that all the treatments were superior to the untreated control. Our results were in line with the findings of Ekantaramayya et al. (2012) who studied the efficacy of selective botanicals and entomopathogens against S. dorsalis on rose and found that among the botanicals, 2 % Neem Seed Kernel Extract (NSKE) was found suitable, which controlled 69.08 % thrips.\r\nB. Residues estimation\r\nValidation of the method. The calibration curves obtained from the matrix matched standards of onion extracts presented good linearity with coefficients of determination (R2) around 0.945 for all the analytes. The method has been validated by determining LOD, LOQ, and accuracy and precision in terms of recovery. LOD and LOQ of cypermethrin and fenvaletare was found to be 0.01 and 0.05 mg kg−1, respectively. The percent recovery of cypermethrin and fenvaletare of two spiking levels (0.25 and 0.50 mg kg−1) ranged between 86.18-89.63 and 90.15.10-95.10 %, both in case of onion leaves and bulbs. The values of % RSD ranged from 2.28-3.45 % and 0.55-1.28 % for the analytes, in cypermethrin and fenvalerate, respectively for both onion leaves and bulbs proved that satisfactory precision of the methodology was followed. These recoveries were within the acceptable range and are in accordance to international guidelines (EC, 2007; Sante, 2017).\r\n \r\nDissipation kinetics: After a foliar treatment of a substrate (e.g., leaf surface, fruit, plant, soil) with a pesticide, the residue level on the substrate dissipates at an overall rate, and the dissipation kinetics of the pesticide residues is the combination of many factors i.e volatilization, photolysis, washing off, leaching, hydrolysis, microbial degradation, and other processes (Seiber and Kleinschmidt 2010). The rate kinetics could be pseudo–first, first, or second order depending on rapid [Phase 1: a linear plot with R2> 0.85] or slow [Phase 2: two or more non–linear plots with R2 ≤ 0.85] dissipation of the pesticide resulting in small or extended half–lives (Whitmyre et al., 2004). Although there is no scientific basis for limiting the interpretation of dissipation data to first–order kinetics, the standard approach used by regulatory agencies has been to apply first–order kinetics to the entire dissipation period. Federal guidelines indicate that special consideration should be given to pesticides that exhibit biphasic dissipation kinetics (USEPA, 1999). \r\nIn present study, the dissipation kinetics of the cypermethrin and fenvalerate in onion showed first–order kinetics with good correlation coefficients in all the samples (Fig. 3 A-B). Several literature reports also follow first–order kinetics for dissipation for cypermethrin and fenvalerate (Janghel et al., 2007).\r\nUntreated samples of onion bulbs and leaves were fortified at 0.25 and 0.50 mg Kg-1 levels. \r\nAverage recoveries of cypermethrin from samples of onion bulbs and leaves were 87.11 ± 2.05 and 89.63 ± 3.10 per cent, respectively. The average recovery was calculated to be 88.37 per cent. The recovery data of fenvalerate in onion bulbs and leaves fortified at 0.25 and 0.50 mg Kg-1 levels were 95.10 ± 1.10 and 91.57 ± 0.50 per cent, respectively and overall recovery was calculated to be 93.33 per cent.\r\nIn order to know the extent of persistence and dissipation of cypermethrin and fenvalerate residues in/on onion bulbs and leaves, samples were taken at zero, three, seven and ten days from the treated plots. The experimental data indicate that the application of cypermethrin @ 37.5 g a.i ha-1 on onion bulbs in the field resulted an initial deposit to the extent of 0.03 mg kg-1 and fenvalerate @ 37.5 g a.i ha-1 resulted in an initial deposit to the extent of 0.03 mg kg-1, respectively. The insecticides dissipated very fast just after its application and fell abruptly to the level of 0.016 and 0.02 mg kg-1 on 3rd day. From 3rd day onwards, there was a gradual degradation / dissipation of cypermethrin residues till 10th day. The dissipation rate was slightly slower but kept on increasing day by day and about 95 per cent of residues were found dissipated by end of 10th day. The dissipation of cypermethrin on onion bulbs followed first order kinetics. From the studies conducted, it may be concluded that the residues of cypermethrin was below Maximum Residue Limit (MRL) of 0.1 ppm on 0 day. Henceforth from consumer health point of view, a safe waiting period of 1 day is suggested before the treated onion bulbs are consumed. The experimental data indicate that the application of cypermethrin @ 37.5 g a.i ha-1 on onion leaves in the field resulted an initial deposit to the extent of 0.19 mg kg-1 and fenvalerate @ 37.5 g a.i. ha-1 resulted in an initial deposit to the extent of 0.15 mg kg-1, respectively. The insecticides dissipated very fast just after its application and fell abruptly to the level of 0.12 and 0.10 mg kg-1 on 3rd day. From 3rd day onwards, there was a gradual degradation / dissipation of cypermethrin residues till 10th day. The dissipation rate was very slow but kept on increasing day by day and about 95 per cent and 87 percent of residues of cypermethrin and fenvalerate respectively were found to be dissipated by end of 10th day. The dissipation of cypermethrin on onion leaves followed first order kinetics. From the studies conducted, it may be concluded that the residues of cypermethrin in onion leaves reached below Maximum Residue Limit (MRL) of 0.1 ppm on 7th day. Henceforth from consumer health point of view, a safe waiting period of 7 days is suggested before the treated onion leaves are consumed. Therefore the safe waiting period was one day for both leaves and bulbs (Table 6 and 7). \r\nOur findings were in confirmation with Duara et al. (2003) who reported 0.31 and 0.58 mg/kg initial deposits of cypermethrin on brinjal fruits when applied @ 22.5 and 45.0 g a.i. ha-1. The present findings confirmed closely to the earlier findings of Kole et al. (2002) who reported that brinjal fruits were contaminated with cypermethrin (0.01-1.32 ppm residues) and decamethrin (0.05-0.92 ppm).\r\n','Ruby Garg, Bishan Singh, Sangeeta Tiwari, Sunita Yadav, Dalip Kumar and Bajrang Lal Sharma (2022). Evaluation of efficacy of botanical and chemical insecticides and residues estimation of pyrethroids against thrips, Thrips tabaci (Lindeman) on onion. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 14(3): 353-362.'),(5279,'136','Computational Analysis Reveals 10-Acetyl-9,10-dihydroacridine as a Novel Biomolecule from Bacillus licheniformis (MW301654) Possessing Nematicidal Property against Banana Root Knot Nematode Meloidogyne incognita','Suhail Ashraf*, Nakkeeran S., Saranya N., Jothi G., J. Gulsar Banu, S. Mohankumar, Saravanan R., Mahendra K. and Krishna Nayana R.U.','60 Computational Analysis Reveals 10-Acetyl-9,10-dihydroacridine as a Novel Biomolecule from Bacillus licheniformis (MW301654) Possessing Nematicidal Property against Banana Root Knot Suhail Ashraf.pdf','',1,'Root knot nematodes are devasting plant pathogens that affect the agricultural crops all over the world. The recent efforts to identify biorational pesticides to counteract the harmful effects of synthetic pesticides necessitated the development of an efficient and environmentally sound biomolecule for the management of nematodes. In the present study, secondary metabolites produced by Bacillus licheniformis (MW301654) during the ditrophic interaction with Fusarium oxysporum f. sp. cubense (Foc) were screened for its nematicidal property. Molecular Docking was done for the biomolecules10-acetyl-9,10-dihydroacridin, valeric acid and formic acid with the protein targets of M. incognita such ascytochrome c oxidase subunit, calreticulin, venom allergen-like protein and endoglucanase. Modelled structure of protein targets was docked with biomolecules using the PyRx 0.8 server’s AutoDock Vina module for predicting the binding energy of ligand and target protein. Among the chosen targets, docking analysis revealed that 10-acetyl-9,10-dihydroacridin exhibited the highest binding affinity of -9.4 kcal/mol with the target cytochrome c oxidase subunit, binding affinity of calreticulin was -6.7 kcal/mol, endoglucanase had -4.5 kcal/ binding affinity and the binding affinity of venom allergen-like protein was -7.2 kcal/mol in comparison with nematicide carbofuran 3G. Besides, increased binding affinity of 10-acetyl-9,10-dihydroacridin with the protein target sites facilitated to explore it as a novel nematicidal molecule for the management of banana root knot nematode M. incognita. Thus, present study confirmed that the small molecule 10-acetyl-9,10-dihydroacridin can be utilised for its nematicidal activity against M. incognita.','Banana, Meloidogyne incognita, Bacillus licheniformis, 10-Acetyl-9,10-dihydroacridin,Molecular modelling, Molecular docking and Nematicidal activity','The current study used computational strategy to explain the diverse modes of action of endophytic bacterial generated biomolecules.10-acetyl-9,10-dihydroacridin was having highest binding affinity with the various protein targets of the banana root knot nematode than the carbofuran 3G. Thus, the nematicidal biomolecule 10-acetyl-9,10-dihydroacridin can act as a possible inhibitor of the target sites involved in disrupting the functions of β- 1,4 -endoglucanase, COX-1, CRT, and VAP. As a result, 10-acetyl-9,10-dihydroacridin can be used as a nematicidal compound to combat the banana root knot nematode.','INTRODUCTION\r\nRoot-knot nematodes (RKNs; Meloidogyne spp.) are sedentary endoparasitic worms that can infect a variety of plant species globally. This causes annual crop losses of about $70 billion (Caboni et al., 2012). The four most significant crop-damaging species of root knot nematode are M. incognita, M. arenaria, M. hapla, and M. javanica, which are among the top 10 most economically devastating plant-parasitic nematodes (Jones et al., 2013). Banana yields are reduced by 20–30% as a result of M. incognita (Liu et al., 2005). Besides having a brief biological cycle, they also produce root lesions, which helps in secondary pathogen invasion (Caboni et al., 2016). Conventionally nematode management was mostly accomplished through the application of nematicides (Caboni et al., 2016). However, numerous synthetic nematicides have lost their effectiveness over time, and their use has been connected to a variety of harmful effects, including soil and groundwater contamination, as well as animal, farmer, and consumer health concerns (López-Lima et al., 2013). Beneficial bacteria and fungi limit the population dynamics of plant parasitic nematodes (PPN) in soils, halting their growth either by trapping or releasing toxins, or by interacting with tiny compounds produced as secondary metabolites by hostile bacteria. Some of the microorganisms associated in nematode suppression are Bacillus subtilis, B. velezensis, B. amyloliquefaciens, Pseudomonas fluorescens, and Pasteuria penetrans (Davies et al., 2015; Silva et al., 2019). Secondary metabolites produced by bacterial endophytes have been found to have antinemicactivity against a range of plant parasitic nematodes (Yadav et al., 2021). Cefazolin is a secondary metabolite released by B. velenzensis which is having antifungal activity (Nayana et al., 2022). Furthermore, recent bioinformatics advances have led to the identification of nematode target sites and their interactions with biomolecules produced by various plant growth-promoting rhizobacteria. Thus, availability of annotated protein sequence of root knot and lesion nematode has allowed researchers to look into the most important proteins that play a vital role in the nematode\'s survival and invasion to host as potential therapeutic targets. An in-silico approach aids in the screening of secondary metabolites produced by bacterial endophytes to elucidate their inhibitory activity towards PPN (Terstappen and Reggiani, 2001). Further, Molecular docking facilitates virtual screening of diverse novel small molecules in short time for facilitating the structure-based drug design and to reduce the screening time (Amaro and Mulholland, 2018). Thus, based on the advances in the field of molecular docking, molecular simulation and release kinetics, novel biomolecules from bacterial origin could be identified for the management of plant parasitic nematodes infecting banana.\r\nMATERIALS AND METHODS\r\nSelection and molecular modelling of protein targets. Based on literature review, the potential protein targets of root knot nematode Meloidogyne incognita, were identified as cytochrome c oxidase subunit 1 (COX1) (Aditi Kundu et al., 2021), calreticulin (CRT) (Li et al., 2015; Jaouannet et al., 2013), venom allergen proteins (VAP) (Li et al., 2021 and Wilbers et al., 2018) and β-1,4 -endoglucanase (Smant et al., 1998). The Uni Prot database was utilised to retrieve the protein target sequences of the root knot nematode M. incognita. \r\nThe chosen virulent protein targets for root knot nematode were lacking experimentally and computationally solved structures. SWISS-MODEL software was used to produce homology modelling for COX 1, endoglucanase, CRT and VAP (Waterhouse et al., 2018). The protein targets CRT,COX 1, endoglucanase, and VAP were blasted against Protein Data Bank (PDB) and followed homology modelling methodology. The parameters like Global Mean Quality Estimation (GMQE) score around 1, sequence identity percentage (30-50 %), and maximal query coverage were used to ensure the excellent quality of modelled structures.\r\nModel Validation of protein targets. From the Structural Analysis and Verification of protein (SAVES) server, the PROCHECK programme (https://saves.mbi.ucla.edu/) was used for analysing energy and stereo-chemical property of the modelled protein structures. Ramachandran plot was built for each target using the PROCHECK tool to find whether the residues are in the energetically favoured region. Energy minimisation along with the loop building for residues in the disallowed regions of Ramachandran plot was executed with the help of SWISS-PDB Viewer (Guex et al., 1997)\r\nPreparation of the Ligand. Structures of the ligands 10-acetyl-9,10-dihydroacridin valeric acid and formic acidwere all obtained in SDF format from the PubChem database (https://pubchem.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/) (Kim et al.,2016). The commercial nematicide carbofuran 3G was used as a positive check. For the conversion of SDF to PDB file format Open Babel software was used (O\'Boyle et al., 2011).\r\nMolecular docking analysis. To accomplish molecular docking, PyRx 0.8\'s AutoDock vina module was used (Dallakyan and Olson, 2015). The “make macromolecule” option in PyRx programme was used to prepare the structure of proteins. For the energy minimization of ligands conjugate gradient, first-order derivatives of an optimization procedure with 200 steps, and commercial molecular mechanics parameters-Unified Force Field (UFF)-were used. To determine binding site pockets for the targets, the Computed Atlas Topography of Proteins CASTp 3.0 server was used (Tian et al., 2018). AutoDock4 and autogrid4 parameter files were used for docking and grid configuration respectively. BIOVIA Discovery studio client 2021 (https://www.3ds.com/products-services/biovia/) was used to visualise interactions of docked conformations of protein-ligand complexes. To distinguish between the receptor, ligand, and interacting atoms, different colours were assigned to them (Design, 2014).\r\nRESULTS AND DISCUSSION\r\nModelling of protein targets. Modelling for CRT was done using SWISS-MODEL software with the template protein (PDB ID-6ENY) of 66.05 percent identity,91 percent query coverage, and a GMQE (Global Model Quality Estimation) score of 0.75. Template protein for COX1 (PDB ID-3ABM) had 64.86 percent identity, 99 percent query coverage, and a GMQE score of 0.77, β- 1,4 -endoglucanase was modelled using template structure with (PDB ID-5IHS) had 49.17 percent identity,59 percent query coverage and 0.47 GMQE score, while VAP had 34.76 percent identity, 64 percent coverage, and a GMQE score of 0.45 with template protein (PDB ID-6ANY) (Fig.1).\r\nModel validation. Based on Ramachandran plot, the models were validated and was revealed that COX1 had 94.5 percent of the residues in the most preferred region (Fig. 2). The allowable percentage of CRT residues was found to be 87.3 percent (Fig. 3). 85.7 percent of residues of the target β-1,4-endoglucanase was found to be in allowed region(Fig. 4). Similarly, for the target VAP 82.3 percent of residues were found in most preferred region (Fig. 5). \r\nMolecular docking of biomolecules with theprotein targets of M. incognita. Virtual screening methods such as molecular docking contributed significantly to the discovery of a potential new small molecule with a broad range of mode of action. To use the advantage of molecular docking so that to find a molecule with the highest binding affinity against M. incognita protein target, we investigated the biomolecules, for their potential nematicidal activity against the potential effector and virulent protein targets of M. incognita. Docking studies were used to investigate the binding affinity of modelled protein structures with the compounds. The binding affinity of 10-acetyl-9,10-dihydroacridin with the target COX 1 was -9.4 kcal/mol (H-bonds: 0), binding affinity of calreticulin was -6.7 kcal/mol, β-1,4-endoglucanase had -4.6 kcal/mol as binding affinity (H-bonds: LYS 285, ALA 286) and VAP has a binding affinity of -8.3 kcal/mol. (H-bonds: TYR 172) exhibiting intermolecular interactions towards the binding pocket that provides stability to the complex (Fig. 6, Table 1 and 2). \r\nCarbofuran is a nematode-control agent used commercially by farmers. Hence, it was utilised to compare the affinity values as a positive check. The binding energy value of carbofuran found with the targets for COX 1 -4.2 kcal/mol (H-bonds: GLU 1), for β- 1,4 -endoglucanase -5.8 kcal/mol (H-bonds: LYS 241), for CRT–5.8 kcal/mol (H-bonds: ASN 166) and -6.6 kcal/mol for the target VAP (H-bonds: GLN 145, GLU 88). Two types of hydrogen bonds were found one with backbone and other with side chain. Other than hydrogen bonds there were other interactions also which are known as weak interaction like van der Waals interactions, pi-pi stacked interactions, alkyl, and pi-alkyl interactions (Fig. 7, Table 1 and 2).\r\nAmong the selected protein targets of M. incognita, 10-acetyl-9,10-dihydroacridin exhibited the highest binding energy in relation to target sites COX-1, VAP, β-1,4- endoglucanase, CRT than the commercial nematicide carbofuran 3G.The maximum binding affinity (-9.4 kcal/mol) for the 10-acetyl-9,10-dihydroacridin with the protein target cytochrome c oxidase subunit-1 might inhibit the oxidative phosphorylation pathway and ultimately will cause mortality of nematodes while for the same target carbofuran shows binding energy of (-7.5 kcal/mol) which is less than 10-acetyl-9,10-dihydroacridin (Aditi Kundu et al., 2021). Likewise, maximum binding energy (-7.1 kcal/mol) of 10-acetyl-9,10-dihydroacridin with VAP may blocks these proteins which are involved in the establishment of persistent infections of nematodes in plants (Li et al., 2021). Further the maximum binding (-4.5 kcal/mol) of β- 1,4 -endoglucanase with ligand 10-acetyl-9,10-dihydroacridincould restrict the nematode access into plant tissues by inhibiting the nematode\'s ability to hydrolyse β-1,4 linkage in cellulose polymer (Smant et al., 1998). Subsequently 10-acetyl-9,10-dihydroacridinalso had the maximum binding energy (-6.7 kcal/mol) with protein target calreticulin. It indicated that binding of 10-acetyl-9,10-dihydroacridin with CRT might have blocked Ca2+ multifunctional protein and thus suppressed pathogenesis, reproduction, parasitism and aided in blocking evasion from immunity of host against root knot nematode (Li et al., 2015). However, no reports on the nematicidal action of 10-acetyl-9,10-dihydroacridin have been found. in comparison to carbofuran 3G, 10-acetyl-9,10-dihydroacridin showed maximum binding affinity and this suggests the possibility of 10-acetyl-9,10-dihydroacridin to have a nematicidal property better than the nematicidecarbofuran 3G which is commercially available. As a result, the current study is unique in that 10-acetyl-9,10-dihydroacridin can be used to create a formulation for the control of the banana root knot nematode.\r\n','Suhail Ashraf, Nakkeeran S. , Saranya N., Jothi G., J. Gulsar Banu, S. Mohankumar, Saravanan R., Mahendra K. and Krishna Nayana R.U. (2022). Computational Analysis Reveals 10-Acetyl-9,10-dihydroacridine as a Novel Biomolecule from Bacillus licheniformis (MW301654) Possessing Nematicidal Property against Banana Root Knot Nematode Meloidogyne incognita. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 14(3): 363-370.'),(5280,'136','Composition of Insect fauna in Rice Ecosystem in Professor Jayashankar Telangana State Agricultural University, Hyderabad, Telangana','D. Akhilandeshwari*, I. Aruna Sri, V.V. Rao, M. Madhavi and C.V. Sameer Kumar','61 Composition of Insect fauna in Rice Ecosystem in Professor Jayashankar Telangana State Agricultural University, Hyderabad, Telangana D. Akhilandeshwari.pdf','',1,'Comprehensive investigation of different insect fauna on different crops was not studied systematically at PJTSAU, Hyderabad. Hence, an attempt to describe composition and abundance of insects was made during Kharif 2021 on rice ecosystem. An experiment was conducted between September 2021-February 2022 to record the composition of Insect fauna in Rice ecosystem at college farm of PJTSAU. Sampling was done through three different trapping methods (Light trap, Sweep net, Pitfall trap) altogether 11,094 individuals of 39 families and 10 orders were collected. Of all the orders Hemiptera (3647) accounted for major share with maximum number of individuals followed by Coleoptera (3514) and Lepidoptera (1353) and minimum number of individuals in Neuroptera (22).Out of all collection methods employed, Light trap recorded (7838) highest number of individuals.','Rice ecosystem, Composition, Insect fauna, Sweep net, Light trap, Pitfall trap','The present study revealed that the Order Hemiptera was the most dominant in terms of total number of individuals collected than other nine orders viz., Coleoptera, Lepidoptera, Orthoptera, Hymenoptera, Diptera, Dermaptera, Odonata, Mantodea and Neuroptera. From the studied location it was showed that among the three sampling methods viz., Light trap, Sweep net, Pitfall trap installed, Light trap was one of the most efficient method in trapping the insects diverse groups.','INTRODUCTION \r\nIn terms of taxonomic diversity, insects are the most diverse group of creatures on the planet (Belamkar and Jadesh 2014). With 1,020,007 species, or 66 percent of total known animal species, insects are the most prevalent (Zhang, 2011). In India, there are 27 orders under 658 families that make up the insect biodiversity. Coleoptera, Lepidoptera, Orthoptera, Hymenoptera, Diptera, Hemiptera, Odonata and Thysanoptera are eight major orders of insects accounting for 94% of all insect species in India. The remaining 21 groups only account for six percent of all insect species. The most diverse order in terms of families (114 families) was coleopteran (Chandra, 2011).\r\nRice is one of the important field crops grown in India which exhibits an excellent instance of changing insect pest scenario in recent past. The abundance and diversity of insects differ in the rice ecosystem in addition to the growth stages of its sowing season. Many arthropods species inhabit rice fields in which some are harmful to the crop, but most of them are not noxious to rice plant (Singh and Singh 2014). In India after green revolution there was a steady growth of the total number of insect pests and concomitant shift of their pest status its diversity and spread (Sain and Prakash 2008). \r\nIn addition to the above, a total of 800 insect species have been identified worldwide, with 100 species being pests that attack different portions of the rice plant and the others being beneficial. Stem borer, defoliators, gall midge and disease-transmitting vectors such as plant hoppers and leaf hoppers are all major rice pests. The species makeup of the aforementioned important insect pest stem borer, which includes yellow stem borer, white stem borer, pink borer, and black headed borer, has demonstrated broad geographical variance throughout the country. From the time of sowing to harvest, the majority of rice plant elements are vulnerable to pest assault. Insects cause damage to a variety of plant parts by burrowing into stems, devouring plant tissues, and draining sap from stems and grains (Ane and Hussain 2016).\r\nMATERIAL AND METHODS \r\nThe study area. Sampling of insect fauna was carried between September 2021 to February 2022 in the rice ecosystem at College farm, College of agriculture, Rajendranagar which is located at 17°.19’N latitude and 17°24’E longitude at an altitude of 542.6 m above the Mean Sea Level. \r\nCollection Methods. Insect collections were carried at weekly intervals through light trap, pitfall trap and sweep net by using three different traps.\r\nPitfall trap: Pitfall traps, (plastic cups with a top diameter of 12 cm and a height of 14 cm), 5 per acre were placed at random sites. Salt and soap-infused water will be added to each cup until it is one-fourth of the way full. \r\nLight trap: The nocturnal insects were captured using light traps (1 per hactare), which were lighted in the evening (6pm to 10pm). There was random distribution of light traps with containers filled with soap water. The following morning, each trap was serviced and the captured insects were taken to the lab for identification.\r\nSweep net: The insects were collected once a week during the day (9 am to 1 pm) using sweep nets (30 cm hoop diameter and 80 cm handle length). Five sweeps were used at each point while moving in a diagonal route at intervals of 50m. The insects were brought into the lab for preservation and further identification was done after placing in to a killing jar containing cotton swabs dipped in ethyl acetate.\r\nMost of the collected specimens were recognised by key (Triplehorn and Johnson. 2005) up to the family level. \r\nRESULTS AND DISCUSSION\r\nThe study resulted with a total of 11,094 individuals were collected belonging to39 families and 10 orders in three traps (Table 1). Among the ten orders, Hemiptera was recorded with eight families, followed by the orders Coleoptera (seven families), Lepidoptera (six families), Hymenoptera (five families), Orthoptera and Diptera with four families each, Odonata with two families each, whereas orders Dermaptera, Mantodea and Neuroptera were reported with one family each. Decreasing order of Insects orders according to the number of individuals recorded is as follows. Hemiptera (3647) > Coleoptera (3514) > Lepidoptera (1353) > Orthoptera (818) > Hymenoptera (807) >Diptera (722) >Odonata (82) >Dermaptera (79) >Mantodea (50) >Neuroptera (22). Findings shows highest number of orders and families were documented than previous studies carried out by Ibrahim and Mugiasih (2020) who reported 15 families under 6 orders (Odonata, Orthoptera, Hemiptera, Lepidoptera, Hymenoptera, Coleoptera) in rice ecosystem.\r\nOrder odonata includes dragonflies (Anisoptera) and damselfies (Zygoptera) wherein adults are predaceous insects. A total of 82 individuals were recorded with maximum of 48 individuals from Dragonfly family (Libellulidae) and 34 from damselfly family (Platycnemididae). Out of three different trapping methods, Sweep net (60) recorded highest number of individuals followed Light trap (18) and Pitfall trap (4) recorded lowest number of individuals. As these insects seen mostly near grasses and waterbodies more number of individuals are collected in Sweep net in rice ecosystem. Results shows that, family Libellulidae was found to be more prevalent which is in accordance with (Arulprakash et al., 2017).\r\nOrthoptera includes grasshoppers, crickets and katydids. However, few grasshoppers are predators, and the most of them feed on plants. Totally 818insect specimens were collected from four families in three different trapping methods.477 individuals were collected from family Acrididae followed by Gryllidae (196), Tettigonidae (106) and Pygomorphidae (39). Among different methods, Pitfall trap (381) collected a highest number of insects than sweep net (288) and least number of individuals by light trap (195). Akthar et al. (2012) reported two families viz., Acrididae and Pygomorphidae from rice fields, which were similar with two of four families recorded in present findings.\r\nOrder Dermaptera recorded79 individuals under the family Labiduridae which were collected from pitfall method. This infers, pitfall trap documented more number of earwigs as they were restricted to dark soil habitat.\r\nUsing the three trapping methods, a total of 50 individuals were documented from the order Mantodea under the family Mantidae. Out of the three trapping methods highest number of specimens were captured in Sweep net (26) followed by Pitfall (13) and Light trap (11) respectively. \r\nIn order Hemiptera, a total of 3647 individuals belonging to eight families were caught in three traps. As per the total number of individuals reported following is the trend of families: Cicadellidae (1694) > Pentatomidae (907) > Belostomidae (293) > Alydidae (257) > Miridae (204) >Reduvidae (132) >Fulgoridae (101) >Delphacidae (59). Out of three traps, Light trap collected more number with 3149 individuals followed by Sweep net (416) while Pitfall trap (20) caught least specimens. Family Cicadellidae is recorded with maximum number of individuals and are in congregation with the studies of Sheela and Delphine (2021) who reported Cicadellidae as most abundant family among five families (Cicadellidae, Alydidae, Pentatomidae, Delaphacidae and Pseudococcidae) of Hemiptera collected in rice field.\r\nOrder Neuroptera reported with the family Chrysopidae with 22 individuals recorded in light trap. As the adults were attracted to light and were seen mostly in the light traps.\r\nAltogether 1353 individuals were collected under six families from the order Lepidoptera through light trap and sweep net. The line of decreasing order of families from maximum to minimum number of individuals documented is as follows: Erebidae (653) > Crambidae (449) > Noctuidae (138) > Nymphalidae (97) > Hesperidae (11) > Geometridae (5). Light trap captured maximum of 1096 number of individuals followed by Sweep net (257). Most of the individuals collected belong to moth families which are reported in light trap. Similar studies were reported by (Meena et al. 2018) who found that 10 families (Noctuidae, Erebidae, Arctiidae, Geometridae, Sphingidae, Pyralidae, Lymantriidae, Lasiocampidae, Nymphalidae, Crambidae) were collected in light trap.\r\nDiptera is represented with 722 number of individuals from families Culicidae, Dolichopodidae, Sarcophagidae and Bibionidae with 250,200,186 and 86 number of individuals respectively from three traps. Highest number of individuals were collected from light trap (537) followed by pitfall trap (105) whereas lowest number of individuals were recorded from sweep net (80). Results validates with Majumder et al. (2013) who recorded most of families of diptera from light trap.\r\nIn order Hymenoptera 807 individuals from five families were found in this study were collected in three traps. Catch composition of insects in families is as follows: Formicidae (327), Pompilidae (241), Ichneumonidae (162), Apidae (43) and Vespidae (34). Pitfall trapdocumented 474 individuals followed by light trap (374) and Sweep net (23). Findings clearly showed that Formicidae dominated with more number of individuals which were similar with findings of Leksono et al. (2018). \r\nIn Order Coleoptera, a total of 3514 individuals from seven families were recorded from three collection traps. Number of individuals recorded family wise from highest to lowest were as follows: Staphylinidae (907) > Coccinellidae (877) > Scarabidae (567) > Chrysomelidae (448) > Hydrophilidae (465) > Carabidae (208) > Bostrichidae (42). Light trap (2546) catch recorded greater number of individuals followed by Sweep net (564) and least number of individuals in Pitfall trap (404). Results showed that the family Staphylinidae recorded maximum number of individuals among all the families which were in accordance to Sahoo et al. (2020) who recorded that family Staphylinidae was most abundant with relative abundance of 31.27%.\r\nAltogether light trap catches maximum of 7838 number of individuals (Fig. 1) belonging to 35 families of 10 orders followed by Sweep net with1714 individuals from 20 families under seven orders and minimum number of 1542 insect specimens belonging to 17 families under 7 orders were documented in pitfall trap. From the studies it can be concluded that Light trap was one of the most efficient method in trapping diverse group of insect fauna irrespective of beneficial or harmful, which correlates with the studies of Mishra et al. (2017).\r\n','D. Akhilandeshwari, I. Aruna Sri, V.V. Rao, M. Madhavi and C.V. Sameer Kumar (2022). Composition of Insect fauna in Rice Ecosystem in Professor Jayashankar Telangana State Agricultural University, Hyderabad, Telangana. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 14(3): 371-374.'),(5281,'136','A Study on Effect of Diameter and Speed of Impeller on Air Discharge and Power Consumption of Blower using CFD Analysis','Devaragatla Chandana*, R. Thiyagarajan, A. Surendrakumar, P. Dhananchezhyian, A.P. Mohan Kumar and K. Senguttuvan','62 A Study on Effect of Diameter and Speed of Impeller on Air Discharge and Power Consumption of Blower using CFD Analysis Devaragatla Chandana.pdf','',1,'Computational Fluid Dynamics has made it easier to build blowers since it makes it possible to accurately forecast the complex internal flows of impellers. The speed and impeller diameter are most important because it determines the flow and efficiency of the blower. The paper analyses how changes in impeller diameter and rotational speed affect the performance of the blower. The impeller was modelled using solid works software and simulated using CFD to determine the performance of the blower. One particular challenge to CFD is that many variables affect its accuracy; the mesh resolution and spatial/temporal discretization, as instance, might each have a different impact. Simulations were conducted to compare the results of the closed impeller with diameters of 95 mm and 115 mm with speed variation of24000 to 36000 rpm. For each impeller velocity, pressure, and discharge generated are evaluated and better parameters for the best performance of the impeller are suggested. The results demonstrated that changing in impeller\'s diameter has an impact on the flow, pressure head, and velocity. As the impeller\'s diameter rises, the blower provides the high flow rate. Additionally, it has been observed that a slight variation in power usage results a change in blower speed. Power consumption is found to increase slightly with maximum variation of 2.5% on increasing speed from 24000 to 36000 rpm. It is also found from results that the impeller diameter at 115mm diameter with the speed of 30000rpm gives approximately the same output with 95 mm diameter and 36000 rpm. Depending on required air flow rate, increasing the diameter or blower speed can be used.CFD results were validated by the good agreement between CFD and experimental results.','Blower, Air flow rate, Blower speed, CFD, Impeller, Discharge','In this study, the major parameters like impeller diameter, and rotational speed were considered and analysed. The results are improved by using CFD and experimental methodology, the following conclusion was made.\r\nAirflow rate is a function of diameter and speed of the impeller. The analytical performance works were carried out to get the optimum combination of blower parameters. On increasing speed from 24000 to 36000 rpm, power consumption is observed to increase significantly with a maximum variance of 2.5%. A 95mm impeller raised pressure at the nozzle by 1297 Pa at 36000 rpm compared to a 115mm impeller 2300 Pa at the same speed. This design generates a velocity of around 90 m/s at 36000 rpm, which is similar to the velocity produced by a mist blower petrol engine. If a significant change in flow rate is needed and space is a constraint, rotational speed and impeller diameter can be changed. Therefore, in order to achieve a greater flow rate and head, a 115mm diameter impeller has been selected, but power consumption for a 115mm, 36000 rpm impeller is high. This greater power consumption could be reduced by decreasing the weight of the impeller. This can be achieved by selecting lighter material for constructing an impeller. According to the results of experiments, when the impeller operates with a larger diameter, the flow rate, total pressure rise, and shaft power consumption has also increased, but the efficiency has reduced. This research is quite beneficial for choosing the blower\'s dimensions to attain the best performance and may be accepted as the experimentally validated design.\r\n','INTRODUCTION\r\nPlant protection activities are most important practices during crop production. The application of fungicides, herbicides, and insecticides is one of the most recurrent and significant tasks in agriculture. For orchard crops, air-assisted, mist blowers and air blast sprayers are now frequently utilised. In recent days, sprayers of various sizes are being imported from overseas which are poorly designed and also, the power consumption and power required to operate the sprayers are very high. The optimised design is a crucial for obtaining improved performance. In the power operated sprayers like mist sprayers cum duster have fans and impellers that supply air at a required high velocity but at less static pressure (Wagh et al., 2014). Three crucial components make up a centrifugal blower: the impeller, casing, and air intake duct. Air is pulled axially into the impeller of a centrifugal blower and is propelled radially through the impeller. Blowers have a rotating element (called an impeller) through which air passes and its angular momentum changes, resulting in an increase in pressure, head, and velocity of air (Wilson et al., 2006). Axial blowers and centrifugal blowers are two common varieties of blowers or fans. In a centrifugal blower, air is moved by centrifugal force, which causes the impeller blades to actually push the air out of their boundaries and create suction inside the impeller. The blower shaft drives the impeller which adds a velocity component to the air by centrifugally throwing of air away from the impeller vane tips (Zainal et al., 2021). The pressure rises and flow rate in centrifugal blowers depend on the peripheral speed (Yahya, 2010). A blower is a type of general machinery that is widely and fully utilized in agricultural fields for spraying operations. Nowadays, the design demands a detailed understanding of internal flow during design and off-design operating conditions.\r\nFrom the various reviews, it is found that Computational Fluid Dynamics (CFD) has successfully contributed to the prediction of flow-through blowers and enhancement of their design (Sreekanth et al., (2021). For improvement of impeller efficiency, CFD is used to predict the results of static pressure generated at the impeller\'s entry (Keyur et al., 2013). The impeller\'s optimum design is essential and significant for the effective operation of a blower (Matlakala et al., 2019). The speed and diameter of the impeller determine the air volume or pressure that the blower can generate. The air will move much faster toward the vane tip and absorb more energy as a result of the larger size impellers or speed of rotation (Addison, 1995). If impeller\'s diameter is decreased from the original design, pressure, air flow, and power consumption will be decreased (Chunxi et al., 2011). Therefore, impeller\'s trimming shouldn\'t be greater than 75% of the pump\'s original diameter. The inlet radius had a major impact on the flow rate of the centrifugal blower. Too small or too large of the inlet radius will result in a noticeable loss in flow rate. The total pressure rise and flow rate curves can be obtained as well as detailed information about flow of the fan, which can be helpful for analysis and design (Meakhail and Park 2005).\r\nAccordingly, the results are very useful in choosing the right impeller design based on the considered operating flow conditions. It also involves in evaluating the influence of the diameter and the speed of the impeller on the configuration of the blower. However, no publication has evaluated the influence of blower performance on impeller trimming. As a result, attention must be paid to how speed and impeller trimming affect blower performance. However, some works has proposed empirical formulae for determining the flow rate, and pressure. To determine the performance of centrifugal pumps affinity laws are used. The variation equations of fan performance influenced by the increased impeller diameter are suggested by analysis of these measures. The primary objective of this research is to study the blower\'s performance using CFD analysis.\r\nMATERIALS AND METHODS\r\nFor this study closed type impeller is selected because of its highest efficiency due to its tight clearances against the internal casing but also between impeller blades. In this type of impeller, the air is drawn into the impeller eye (centre) before centrifugal forces direct air through blades, then directed axially and expelled through the outlet. Impellers were designed with two different diameters of 95 mm and115 mm using 3 D modelling (solid works) software was presented in Fig. 1. The designed impellers were tested at varying of different speeds (24000, 30000 and 36000 rpm). For each speed and impeller diameter, the power consumption and air volume flow rate, the pressure developed were computed. \r\nAffinity Laws for Centrifugal pump. If the impeller diameter or total head (or pressure) are adjusted, the affinity laws can be used to anticipate how the blower would perform (Jones et al., 2011; Matlaka, 2019). The efficiency is used to estimate the affinity laws which describe mathematical relationship between the variables involved in blower performance, such as flow, pump speed, and the total head and power.\r\nDimensionless pump numbers and affinity laws. The laws reflect the fact that Dimensionless pump characteristics like flow rate Q (m3 /s), head, H (m), and power, P (W) to the speed, N (rpm) and to the impeller diameter, D (m), of the pump. The calculated values are presented in the Table 2.\r\nThe flow capacity is expressed as\r\nQ_1/Q_2 = N_1/N_2 ⨯ D_1/D_2 \r\nThe head capacity is expressed as\r\nH_1/H_2 =(N_1/N_2 )^2⨯(D_1/D_2 )^2\r\nThe power required is expressed as\r\nP_1/P_2 =(N_1/N_2 )^3⨯(D_1/D_2 )^3\r\nThese equations can be very useful in the design stage. \r\nThe results shows that an impeller with a 115mm diameter gives a higher air flow rate at 36000 rpm as compared to 24000 rpm and 30000 rpm. Furthermore, it shows that the expanded portion of blades in the fan with a larger impeller significantly increases total pressure. Euler\'s equation, states that the energy of the air produced by the fan is proportional to the fan\'s diameter (Chunxi et al., 2011).\r\nModelling and meshing of blowers. SOLIDWORKS is used to design the blowers\' impeller and 3D modelling (Myaing et al., 2014). The design consists of an impeller, suction cover, and casing. These models were designed in solid works. The unstructured grid type is used to mesh the entire centrifugal blower domain. In unstructured grids, triangles in 2D and tetrahedral in 3D are utilized.\r\nUnstructured grid systems have the benefit of being highly automated and requiring minimal human effort and time (Pathak et al., 2012). An sysfluent is used for meshing. Tetrahedral meshes often offer a more automated method for volume meshing, with the option to add mesh controls to enhance the accuracy in crucial areas and they maintain good quality for complex shapes (Wagh et al., 2014; Jayapragasan et al., 2014). The mesh element size for the volute casing was kept constant throughout the analysis. Some undesirable curves and surfaces that would have affected the meshing quality have been trimmed, and others were added. The blowers are meshed using tetrahedral elements since they maintain good quality for complex shapes (Ahmad, 2011). After grid generation, the mesh independency tests were carried out.\r\nSimulation of blower. Computational Fluid Dynamics (CFD) approach is the effective method of solving non-linear partial differential equations that governs fluid flow, heat transfer and turbulence of flow (Bhatti et al., 2020). The blower performance was simulated using the CFD to examine the impact of impeller diameter. Boundary conditions play an important role in CFD analysis (Kumaran et al., 2017). Understanding the energy losses occurring in blower requires a study of the fluid flow pattern within the assembly, which can be obtained through flow analysis by CFD (Manivel et al., 2018).\r\nStatistical analysis. The Pearson correlation often referred to as Pearson\'s r, is a popular statistic for assessing the degree to which two variables are correlated. The correlation coefficient (r) is a dimensionless numerical variable with a range of -1 to +1 (Kim et al., 2015). As a result, the correlation significance is determined by coefficient value. A correlation value of 0 shows that two variables do not have a linear relationship. If the coefficient is 1 or extremely close to 1, the two variables are related in a positive linear manner (Schober et al., 2018).\r\nr=(∑_(i=1)^n▒〖(xi-x)(yi-y̅)〗)/√(Σ(xi-x ̅ )^2 Σ〖(yi-y̅)〗^2 )\r\nwhere r is the correlation coefficient and xi and yi are the values of the individual variables. 𝑥 and c𝑦 mean values of the time series data. The relationship between rotational speed and discharge is determined using the Pearson correlation coefficient.\r\nRESULTS AND DISCUSSION\r\nComputational Fluid Dynamics (CFD).A 3D model has been created using experimental information that has been collected regarding dimensions of the impeller, casing, blade profile and guide vane etc. For the purpose of pre-processing the simulation, geometry model of the blower assembly is imported into ANSYS workbench. To create flow simulations, CFD is employed. \r\nThe impeller region is operating in a rotating frame of reference and the casing region operates in a stationary frame of reference. Based on the simulation, the results of airflow through different volute geometries were investigated. The simulation of a 115mm diameter impeller with 36000 rpm was presented in Fig. 5 to 7. The velocity contours reveal that when the flow coefficient rises, the velocity at outflow also rises as shown in Figure 5. This is because the opening area is similar for all cases, so as the mass flow rate is increased the velocities will also increase. A high-velocity contour is observed near the impeller region. Similar outcomes are also reported (Choi et al., 2003). This is because of the rotation of the impeller. High-velocity contours become less pronounced due to distance away from the impeller. The velocity is seen to be reduced from the impeller to exit due to the conversion of velocity into the pressure. The turbulent kinetic energy (Fig. 6) is a result of an analysis and it shows that kinetic energy can be minimized through sophisticated design, which also results in a decrease of noise emission (Breier, 2005). Figure 7 shows the contours of pressure. It is observed that the static pressure rises as it is moved from suction to exit. This result of pressure rise is due to the conversion of velocity into pressure that takes place in the casing. This is the process of pressure recovery occurred in the casing. CFD was carried out using Ansys software and the results were presented in Tables 3 and 4. \r\nThe results indicate that increases in blower speed and impeller diameter (115 mm) result in a substantial increase in flow rate. The increase in blower speed from 24000 rpm to 36000 rpm, the flow rate increases by more than 21 %, while increasing the diameter of impeller from 95m to 115 mm increases flow velocity by 15% increase for speed of 36000rpm. This indicates that by increasing the impeller diameter and speed to an optimum level the performance of the blower will be increased as stated (Chunxi, et al., 2011). The results indicated that the air velocity at blower outlet varies from 8.06 to 12.09 m/s at the speed of 24000 rpm to 36000 rpm for an impeller of 95 mm diameter whereas for 115 mm diameter, there was an increase in air velocity from 9.75 to 14.63 m/s at the speed of 24000 rpm to 36000 rpm respectively.From Table 4, it is found that the mean discharge of 30.5 m3/hr, 38.18 m3/hr,45.81 m3/hr, mean nozzle pressure of 380 Pa, 592 Pa,853 pa for a blower speed of 24000 to 36000rpm with respect to 95 mm diameter impeller. The mean discharge of 36.9 m3/hr, 46.2 m3/hr, 55.45 m3/hr, mean nozzle pressure of 555 Pa, 1034 Pa, 1250 Pa for a blower speed from 24000 to 36000 rpm with respect to 115 mm diameter impeller. It also indicates that the impeller diameter at 115mm with speed of 30000 rpm gives approximately the same air output of 46.2 m3/hr and with 95 mm diameter and 36000 rpm gives 45.81 m3/hr. This suggest that if decrease in diameter of impeller there should be an increase in speed to get better output. The pressure rise at nozzle and air discharge parameters of two impellers at three different speeds are presented in Fig. 8. \r\nEffect of power and discharge. Power output is analysed to understand the changes in the system performance according to various operating conditions. Regarding power consumption as shown in Fig. 9, results indicate that the mean power consumption of 72.46 W,142 W,245 W for blower with 24000 rpm, 30000 rpm,36000 rpm of 95 mm diameter impeller, The mean power consumption of 128 watts, 251 watts, 433 watts for blower with 24000 rpm,30000 rpm,36000 rpm of 115 mm diameter impeller. Similar result of power consumption rises gradually as the impeller diameter rises as reported (Mwinuka, 2016). This increase might be due to an increase in inertia load, diameter, speed and change in air flow dynamics. The design or redesign of manufactured blowers may benefit greatly from these findings.\r\nThe effect of speed and diameter of impeller on blower efficiency is shown in Fig 10. The result suggests that as blower speed increased, operating at 36,000 rpm as compared to 24000 rpm of 115mm diameter blower efficiency declined by 27%. This might be caused by lateral gap volumetric and impeller frictional losses. The blower may have been less efficient as a result of running at faster speed. As the blower speed increased, the efficiency is decreased. Similar results were observed by Dhande et al. (2016). This could be as a result of decrease in static pressure at the casing caused by an increase in air discharge.\r\nThe linear relationship between discharge and rotational speed has been found using a scatter diagram as shown in Fig. 11. The correlation coefficient (R2) is determined to be 0.87, suggesting a positive strong link among discharge and speed. The results were considered to be more optimistic when they were compared with similar research.','Devaragatla Chandana, R. Thiyagarajan, A. Surendrakumar, P. Dhananchezhyian, A.P. Mohan Kumar and K. Senguttuvan (2022). A Study on Effect of Diameter and Speed of Impeller on Air Discharge and Power Consumption of Blower using CFD Analysis. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 14(3): 375-382.');
INSERT INTO `pdf_upload` VALUES (5282,'136','Screening of Maize Inbred lines for Resistance to Fall armyworm, Spodoptera frugiperda (J.E. Smith)','Sneha A.*, Srinivasan T., Murugan M., Ravikesavan R. and Amirtham D.','63 Screening of Maize Inbred lines for Resistance to Fall armyworm, Spodoptera frugiperda (J.E. Smith) Sneha A.pdf','',1,'Field screening of fifty maize inbreds against the fall armyworm was carried out during rabi, 2021-2022. On the basis of leaf damage rating and kernel damage rating of maize BOX.NO 72173-2-1-1 recorded the minimum leaf damage (2.1), while BOX.NO 426-3 recorded the maximum leaf damage (6.6). With regard to kernel damage BOX.NO.1076-5-2-2 recorded the minimum kernel damage (1.5), while BOX.NO 1076-5-4-1, 9119-1-2-1 and BOX.NO 426-3 recorded maximum kernel damage (5.8). Among 13 maize inbreds that were found to be less susceptible with a leaf injury rating less than 4.0 the leaf damage rating showed a non-significant correlation with total number of leaves/plant (r = -0.441), while significant correlation was recorded with respect to leaf area (r = +0.644). A highly significant negative correlation was obtained with leaf trichome density (r = -0.831) at 45 DAS. The kernel damage rating showed positive correlation with the cob length (r= +0.571) and the height of the cob (r= +0.895).','Host plant resistance, Maize, Fall armyworm,Spodoptera frugiperda, Leaf damage, Kernel damage','Screening of fifty maize inbreds against maize fall armyworm was done under artificial infestation by releasing neonate larvae into the whorl of each plant. On the basis of leaf damage and kernel damage rating BOX.NO 72173-2-1-1 recorded minimum leaf damage (2.1) while, the BOX.NO 426-3 recorded maximum leaf damage (6.6). With regard to kernel damage BOX.NO.1076-5-2-2 recorded minimum kernel damage (1.5) while, BOX.NO 1076-5-4-1, 9119-1-2-1 and BOX.NO 426-3 recorded maximum kernel damage (5.8).\r\nAmong 13 maize inbreds that were found to be less susceptible with a leaf injury rating less than 4.0, the leaf damage rating showed non-significant negative correlation with total number of leaves/plant (r = -0.441), while, significant positive correlation (r = +0.644) was recorded with the leaf area (cm2) A highly significant but negative correlation was obtained with trichome density (r =-0.831). The kernel damage rating showed significant positive correlation with that of cob length (cm) (r=0.571) and the cob height above ground (cm) (r=0.895). Thus, it is concluded that the plant morphological characteristics plays an important role in feeding and oviposition preference for fall armyworm and the inbreds with higher trichome density can be used as donors in breeding programmes.\r\n','Maize (Zea mays L.) is referred to as the “Queen of cereals” and in many parts of the world maize is being used as a staple food. In India, maize is the third most important food crop after rice and wheat. It is cultivated in 90.27 lakh ha with the productivity of 3070 kg/ha (INDIASTAT, 2019). Maize is cultivated throughout the year in all states of the country for various purposes including grain, fodder, green cobs, sweet corn, baby corn, pop corn, etc. Of the total maize produced in India, approximately 47 per cent is used as poultry feed, followed by 13 per cent as livestock feed and food purpose each, 12 per cent for industrial purposes, 14 per cent in starch industry, 7 per cent as processed food and 6 per cent for export and other purposes (IIMR, 2016-19). In Tamil Nadu, it is cultivated in an area of 3.24 lakh hectare with 25.91 lakh tonnes of production during 2017-18 (INDIASTAT, 2020). About 250 insect species are associated with maize in field and storage conditions (Mathur, 1992) and with the recent introduction of the invasive fall armyworm Spodoptera frugiperda (Lepidoptera: Noctuidae) there is a growing concern among maize growers of the country (Navin et al., 2021).\r\nThe fall armyworm is an insect native to tropical and subtropical regions of the Americas (Sparks, 1986; FAO, 2018). The incidence of this pest was first observed in Shivamogga, Karnataka during May, 2018 (Tippannavar et al., 2019).Among Indian states, Madhya Pradesh and Karnataka has the highest area under maize (15% each) followed by Maharashtra (10%), Rajasthan (9%), Uttar Pradesh (8%) among others. After Karnataka and Madhya Pradesh, Bihar is the highest maize producer, while Andhra Pradesh is having the highest state productivity. Some districts like Krishna, West Godavari etc. records as high as 12 t/ha productivity (IIMR, 2020). The fall armyworm larvae is a cosmopolitan (Luginbill, 1928), polyphagous pest which can feed on about 80 different plant species including crops such as corn, rice, small millets, sugarcane, alfalfa, soybean, sorghum, cotton and vegetable crops (Wiseman et al., 1966; Sparks, 1979; Pitre and Hogg 1983; Pogue, 2002; Capinera, 2008). Though this pest feeds on several crops, maize is the most preferred host. It feeds mostly on all the stages of maize, the fall armyworm larva enters into maize field as early as 13 days old crop and starts scrapping on the leaf surface initially. Within a week the 3rd instar stage start to reside inside the whorl causing extensive damage to meristamatic region of the plant (Harrison, 1986; Melo and Silva 1987).\r\nPresently, fall armyworm is kept under check through a predominantly pesticide based approach which may not be feasible in the long run. Host plant resistance seems to be an alternate option which will provide ecologically and environmentally feasible solution for managing fall armyworm. Morphological, nutritional and secondary metabolite variations among the maize hybrids influence the feeding preference of fall armyworm. The morphological plant characters viz., number of leaves/plant, leaf area, leaf trichome density, cob length and cob height above ground and nutritional properties viz., total protein content, amino acids, glucose, total non-structural carbohydrates (TNC), protein to TNC (P/C) ratio and biochemical properties viz., peroxidase and lipoxygenase activities are said to confer resistance to fall armyworm by several researchers all over the world (Paul and Deole 2020; Chen et al., 2009). Hence the present study was aimed at identifying biophysical and biochemical bases of resistance in maize inbred lines being maintained at TNAU, Coimbatore.\r\nMATERIALS AND METHODS\r\nRearing of S. frugiperda. The life stages of fall armyworm viz., egg masses and larva were collected from the infested maize field at Department of Millets, New area, TNAU, Coimbatore (11.024˚ N latitude and 76.924˚E longitude). The different life stages were reared at fall armyworm laboratory, Department of Agricultural Entomology, TNAU, Coimbatore.\r\nEgg masses collected from corn fields were surface sterilised with a 0.02 percent sodium hypochlorite solution, dried, and stored individually in plastic jars until hatching. The neonates were moved to a larger plastic container with artificial diet after hatching. Larvae were grown in plastic jars on artificial diet from the third instar onwards until they reached the pre-pupal stage. Pupae were collected from the jar after pupation, put on sterilised petridish with cotton and kept on the cage for moth emergence. For egg-laying, these adult moths were released into an oviposition cage with 10 day old potted maize plants. The male to female moth ratio in the oviposition cage was 1:1. Adult moths were fed with a cotton swab soaked in a ten percent honey solution. Using a camel hair brush, the eggs placed on the potted maize plants were retrieved and utilised for culture multiplication. \r\nScreening of maize inbred lines. The different maize inbreds were sown in the New area of Department of Millets, TNAU, Coimbatore during Rabi 2021-2022 in a Randomized Block Design (RBD) with a row length of 2.5 cm under two replications (Table 3b). The recommended agronomic practices viz., fertilizer application, irrigation and weeding were followed scrupulously as per the crop production guide recommendation of TNAU. Artificial infestation was done manually, using a camel hair brush, with 5-10 neonates into the whorl of each plant at 21 days after emergence (Prasanna et al., 2022). Fall armyworm infestation was recorded at weekly intervals on ten randomly selected plants from each inbred starting from 7 days after emergence up to 52 days after emergence, by which time tassels would have started emerging. The fall armyworm infestation was recorded following a 1- 9 scale with different levels of whorl injury (Table 1) (Davis et al., 1996) besides following a 1-9 scale for kernel damage (Table 2) (Williams et al., 2006). After categorizing the maize inbreds as resistant/ susceptible (Table 1 & 2), a total of 13 inbreds which registered lesser score (≤ 4.0) were further selected for observation of various morphological plant characteristics. The details of maize inbreds are furnished in Table 3a.\r\nMorphological basis of resistance against Spodoptera frugiperda in maize. Different morphological plant parameters viz., number of leaves per plant, plant height (cm), leaf length (cm), leaf width (cm), leaf trichome density (no/cm2), cob height (cm) and length (cm) were recorded from the maize inbreds. Leaf length and leaf width were measured from the 3rd leaf from the top with the help of a measuring tape. Leaf trichome density was counted under a Leica microscope from 6th leaf on an area of one cm2 dia at three different points of a leaf, selected randomly and the mean trichome density was arrived and expressed as no/cm2. Cob height above the soil level and cob length was measured with the help of measuring tape up to the node position of cob. All the parameters were recorded from three plants that were randomly selected in a row. The data were subjected to ANOVA and statistically analyzed with IBM SPSS Statistics v22.0.\r\nRESULT AND DISCUSSION\r\nThe data regarding fall armyworm damage recorded from 50 inbreds is furnished in Table 3. On the basis of leaf damage rating and kernel damage rating of maize BOX.NO 72173-2-1-1 recorded the minimum leaf damage (2.1), while BOX.NO 426-3 recorded the maximum leaf damage (6.6). With regard to kernel damage BOX.NO.1076-5-2-2 recorded the minimum kernel damage (1.5) while, BOX.NO 1076-5-4-1, 9119-1-2-1 and BOX.NO 426-3 recorded maximum kernel damage (5.8).\r\nMorphological characters Vs leaf damage& cob damage by S. frugiperda. Various morphological characters such as number of leaves per plant, leaf trichome density, leaf area (leaflet length and leaflet width) were correlated with leaf damage of maize by fall armyworm on 13 selected inbreds. Similarly the cob length and cob height above ground were also correlated with that of kernel damage of maize by fall armyworm (Table 5).\r\nNumber of leaves/ plant. The number of leaves in 13 different inbreds varied from 7.4 to 10.4 leaves/ plant (Table 4). The maximum number of leaves was recorded in the UMI 406 (10.4) and BOX.NO. 1048-7 (10.0) which were at par with each other followed by BOX.NO.1253-8 (9.6), while minimum number of leaves was recorded in UMI 1003-2-3 (7.4). Leaf number in relation to fall armyworm can be interpreted in two ways. Higher the number of leaves, higher the surface area for fall armyworm oviposition and hence can have a direct bearing on the fall armyworm infestation (Yadav et al., 2021). On the other hand, plants being tolerant to fall armyworm tend to produce more number of leaves as a means of compensation (Ali et al., 2018). In the present investigations, number of leaves had a negative but non-significant correlation (r = -0.44) with that of leaf damage rating. \r\nLeaf area (cm2). The leaf area is one of the factor that corresponds to higher levels of infestation by fall armyworm. The leaf area in different inbreds varied from 108.2 cm2 to 398.9 cm2. The maximum leaf area (398.9 cm2) was observed in the BOX.NO.1048-7 followed by BOX.NO.1131-5 (335.4 cm2), BOX.NO.1131-1 (315.2cm2) which were at par with each other. Whereas, the minimum leaf area was observed in BOX.NO.72173-2-1-1 (108.2 cm2) (Table 4). The fall armyworm, Spodoptera frugiperda had a significant positive correlation between leaf area (cm2) and leaf damage rating. However, it was positive indicating that with increase in leaf area (cm2) there will be increase in infestation level (r = 0.64). This is in accordance with Yadav et al. (2021) where more number of broader leaves play a role in increasing the temperature of canopy as well as help in the movement of larva from plant to plant for natural egg laying besides providing more surface area. But according to Afzal et al. (2009) the leaf length and width was found to be negatively correlated with infestation by C. partellus, which is a stem borer, though.\r\nLeaf trichomedensity (No/ cm2. The leaf trichome density of 13 maize genotypes differed significantly. The trichome density in different inbreds ranged between 18.7 to 64.3 no/cm2. The maximum trichome density was observed in BOX.NO.72173-2-1-1 (64.3/cm2) followed by BOX.NO.1076-5-2-2 (46.0/ cm2) and UMI 406 (35.7/cm2), whereas, the minimum trichome density was observed in BOX.NO.1048-7 (14.45/cm2) (Table 4). \r\nThe fall armyworm, Spodoptera frugiperda incidence had a highly significant negative correlation between trichome density (no/ cm2) at 45 DAS and leaf damage rating (r= -0.83). Density of trichomes plays a crucial role in plant resistance and had an influence against the chewing damage by S. frugiperda (Gustavo Moya-Raygoza et al., 2016). The trichomes also actas a barrier for feeding by fall armyworm, which could explain why resistant hybrids have lesser leaf damage (Wellso and Hoxie 1982). According to the investigations of Afzal et al. (2009) the leaf trichomes may have impeded the ingestion of plant material and may have influenced the digestion and usage of the food by the fall armyworm.\r\nCob length (cm). The length of cob of maize showed significant difference in different genotypes. The cob length in different inbreds varied from 14.9 to 39.8. Higher cob length is one of the factor corresponds to higher level of infestation by fall armyworm. The length of cob (39.8 cm) was observed as maximum in UMI 1153, while the minimum length of cob was observed in UMI 1003-2-3 (14.9 cm), followed by UMI 406 (16.7 cm) and BOX.NO.72173-2-1-1 (17.6 cm) which were at par with each other (Table 4).\r\nThere was a significant positive correlation between cob length (cm) and kernel damage rating. Thus, with increase in cob length (cm) there was increase in infestation level (r = 0.57). This is in contradiction to Ali et al. (2015) where the cob length showed a significant but negative correlation with that of pest infestation. \r\nCob height (cm) above ground level. The height of cob above ground showed significant difference in different inbreds. The cob height above ground in different inbreds ranged from 58.7 to 120 cm. Cobs formed at a greater height is one of the factor that corresponds to higher level of infestation by fall armyworm. It was found to be maximum in BOX.NO.1048-7 (120 cm), while minimum in BOX.NO.72173-2-1-1 (61.7 cm) followed by UMI 406 (72.7 cm) and UMI 504 (73.0 cm) which were at par with each other (Table 4).\r\nThe fall armyworm, Spodoptera frugiperda had a significant positive correlation between cob height above ground level (cm) and kernel damage rating. But it was positive indicating that with increase in cob height above (cm) there was increase in infestation level (r= 0.89).Cobs positioned at greater heights from ground level implies that, adult moths will find it easy to oviposit on the cobs. On the other hand, cob positioned at relatively lesser heights will not be clearly visible from above and this could be the reason for the positive correlation. But according to Kulkarni et al. (2015) the cob height was negatively correlated with Chilo partellus and Sesamia inferens infestation and the differences are found to be non- significant.\r\n','Sneha A., Srinivasan T., Murugan M., Ravikesavan R. and Amirtham D. (2022). Screening of Maize Inbred lines for Resistance to Fall armyworm, Spodoptera frugiperda (J.E. Smith). Biological Forum – An International Journal, 14(3): 383-389.'),(5283,'136','Effect of Pre-Sowing Treatments on Seed Germination of Guava (Psidium guajava L.)','Manish Kumar, Sushil Sharma, Satpal Baloda, Hardeep and Deepak Sangwan','64 Effect of Pre-Sowing Treatments on Seed Germination of Guava (Psidium guajava L.) Hardeep.pdf','',1,'Guava seed germination is poor and takes long time to germinate because of seed dormancy by virtue of hard seed coat and presence of inhibitors. Therefore, present study was carried out with the aim to reduce the difficulties in seed germination. An experiment was conducted to study the effect of different pre-sowing treatments on seed germination of guava at Precision Farming Development Centre (PFDC), Department of Horticulture, CCS Haryana Agricultural University, Hisar during year 2020-2021. The seeds were treated with 13 different pre-sowing treatments. Results indicated that different pre-sowing treatments has significant effect on seed germination of guava. Among the different pre-sowing treatments minimum days to initiation of germination and days to 50% germination in guava were observed in 5% hydrochloric acid solution for 2 minutes (T9) and the highest germination percentage, survival percentage and maximum height of seedlings were recorded with scraping of seed coat with sandpaper + seeds soaked in GA3 200 ppm for 24 hours(T5). This research evaluated the best pre-sowing treatment for seed germination of guava.','Guava, seed, pre-sowing treatments, GA3, germination','Based on the results of the experiment it may be concluded that minimum days to initiation of germination and 50% germination in guava were observed in pre-sowing seed treatment with 5% hydrochloric acid solution for 2 minutes; while highest germination percentage, survival percentage and maximum height of seedlings were recorded under scraping of seed coat with sandpaper + seeds soaked in GA3 200 ppm for 24 hours.','INTRODUCTION\r\nGuava (Psidium guajava L.) is a popular fruit of tropical and sub-tropical regions and belongs to the family Myrtaceae. In Haryana, guava is cultivated in an area of 14543 hectares with an annual production of 260851 metric tonnes (Anonymous, 2021). It is mostly grown in the districts Sonipat, Karnal, Hisar, Jind, Ambala, Yamunanagar, Panipat, Jhajjar and Fatehabad of Haryana. In the recent past, data showed that the area (360 hectares) of guava has increased substantially: which shows that farmers have shown interest in guava cultivation in Haryana. Its performance is better than other fruits in terms of productivity, hardiness and adaptability. The wide adaptability nature of the guava tree helped it to sustain a wide range of environmental conditions, soils, pH (4.5 to 8.2), drought, and salinity. It is quite a hardy, prolific bearer and is considered to be one of the most delicate nutritionally valuable and remunerative crops of the tropics (Sharma et al., 2020; Singh et al., 2000). But it is susceptible to frost.\r\nThe area under guava cultivation expanding day by day which leads to an increase in demand for budded and grafted plants but this demand is not fulfilled because of the paucity of superior seedling rootstock. \r\nTo accomplish the increasing demand for quality rootstock, seedlings need to be raised from seeds, while guava seeds take a long time to germinate because seeds suffer from physical dormancy due to hard seed coat and impermeability to water and gases. Low germination is a major hindrance for the nurseryman in raising a large quantity of rootstock with graftable size in a shorter period for the growers. To enhance germination, different methods like water soaking, mechanical scarification and chemical treatments using GA3 are employed for breaking dormancy in seeds. It has been reported that chemical and mechanical scarification can hasten the imbibition of water by making hard seeds permeable (Sourabh et al., 2020). Seed imbibition is a crucial phase for successful germination as ample water is necessary to rehydrate enzymes and their substrates in preparation for seed germination. The seed scarification process involves breaking, scratching and softening the seed coat so that water enters to stimulate the process of seed germination. The influence of different pre-sowing treatments in guava are poorly understood. So, the current investigation aimed with the objective to study the effect of different pre-sowing treatments on days to initiation of germination, germination percentage and survival percentage of guava. \r\nMATERIALS AND METHODS \r\nThe present investigation was carried out at Precision Farming Development Centre (PFDC), Department of Horticulture, CCS Haryana Agricultural University, Hisar in 2020-2021. The experiment was laid out in Randomized Block Design with three replications containing thirteen treatments of varying concentrations and times comprising scraping of seed coat with sand paper (T1), seed soaked in GA3 100 ppm for 24 hours (T2), seed soaked in GA3 200 ppm for 24 hours (T3), scraping of seed coat with sand paper + seeds soaked in GA3 100 ppm for 24 hours (T4), scraping of seed coat with sand paper + seeds soaked in GA3 200 ppm for 24 hours (T5), 0.1% solution potassium hydroxide soaking for 2 minutes (T6), 0.2% solution potassium hydroxide soaking for 2 minutes (T7), 30% sulfuric acid soaking at different time intervals [quick dip (i),1 minute (ii) and 3 minutes (iii)] (T8), 5% hydrochloric acid soaking for 2 minutes (T9), 10% hydrochloric acid soaking for 2 minutes (T10), hot water soaking at 800 C at different time intervals [quick dip (i), 1 minute (ii) and 3 minutes (iii)] (T11), water soaking for 48 hours (T12), control (T13). A set of five seedlings were selected in each treatment replication-wise. The experiment was conducted in open field conditions. Before sowing of seeds, light irrigation was given. In each treatment, fifty seeds were sown during the 1st week of August 2020. The nursery bed was irrigated with the help of water cane soon after seed sowing and thereafter, moisture was maintained regularly. Data recorded during the study was statistically analyzed by applying the technique of analysis of variance (ANOVA) as suggested by Panse and Sukhatme (1995). The mean value of different parameters is represented. All the statistical analysis was carried out by using OPSTAT statistical software.\r\nRESULTS AND DISCUSSION \r\nThe observations recorded on various aspects viz., seed viability, days to initiation of germination, days to 50 per cent germination, germination percentage, height of seedling and survival percentage of guava are presented in prime heads. \r\nA. Seed Viability \r\nData indicated that under different pre-sowing treatments, the seed viability of guava (Table 1) was significantly influenced and varied from 56.00 to 84.00 per cent. Maximum seed viability (84.00%) was recorded in control (T13) which was statistically at par with water soaking for 48 hours (T12) (80.00%). Except for control (T13) and water soaking for 48 hours (T12), seed viability decreased significantly in all the treatments. Minimum seed viability (56.00%) was observed when seeds were soaked in 30% H2SO4 solution for 3 minutes (T8(iii)).\r\nThe decrease in seed viability by various pre-sowing treatments may be due to over-exposure of seed to scarification treatments. Sulphuric acid has a detrimental effect on seeds because acid penetrates the seed via its exposed micropyle and ends up damaging the seeds (Ells, 1963). These results are in accordance with the findings of Musara et al. (2015) in okra. Seed viability is also reduced when soaked in hot water for a longer duration.\r\nB. Days to initiation of germination\r\nData revealed that different pre-sowing treatments had a significant effect on days to initiation of germination (Table 1). Among the pre-sowing treatments seeds soaked with 5% HCl for 2 minutes (T9) required minimum number of days to initiate germination (17.67), followed by 10% HCl for 2 minutes (T10) and quick dip in 30% H2SO4 [T8 (i)] i.e. 18.33 and 19.00, respectively. Maximum number of days (25.33) taken to initiate germination was recorded in the control (T13). The time taken by seeds for germination was reduced after pre-soaking of seeds in acid because the acid brings about the softening of hard seed coat by dissolution of deposited lipids, pectic substances and high-density waxes from seed coat which are responsible for hard seediness. This in turn make seed coat soft and more permeable to water and gases and induce germination (Chattopadhyay and Dey 1992). Similar results were observed by Brijwal and Kumar (2014) in guava. They reported that pre-soaking of seeds with hydrochloric acid significantly reduced days to initiation of germination as compared to control. Similar results were also reported by Sharma (2016) in chironji. \r\nC. Days to 50 per cent germination\r\nDifferent pre-sowing treatments had a significant effect on days to 50 per cent germination (Table 1) of guava. Seeds treated with 5 % HCl for 2 minutes (T9) requires minimum number of days for 50 per cent germination (27.33) that was followed by 10 % HCl soaking for 2 minutes (T10), quick dip soaking in 30% H2SO4 (T8(i)), scraping of seed coat with sandpaper + seeds soaked in GA3 200 ppm for 24 hours (T5), scraping of seed coat with sand paper + seeds soaked in GA3 100 ppm for 24 hours (T4) and 0.1% Potassium hydroxide solution soaking for 2 minutes (T6) i.e., 28.33, 28.67, 29, 29.33 and 30.00 days, respectively. Maximum number of days (37.33) taken for 50 per cent germination was recorded in control (T13). The minimum number of days taken for 50 per cent germination in 5 % HCL might be due to acid accelerating the water absorption capacity and improving the gaseous exchange for seed germination by softening the hard seed coat (Nayak and Sen 1999). Similarly, Brijwal and Kumar (2014) reported in their study that maximum days to 50 per cent germination of seeds was recorded in control. Whereas, minimum days to 50 per cent germination was recorded in seeds treated with 10 per cent hydrochloric acid for 2 minutes.\r\nD. Germination percentage\r\nGermination percentage was increased significantly with different pre-sowing treatments as compared to control (Fig. 1). The germination per cent ranged from 31.33 per cent to 60.00 per cent. Maximum germination percentage (60.00 %) in guava was recorded with the scraping of seed coat with sandpaper + seeds soaked in GA3 200 ppm for 24 hours (T5) which was significantly higher as compared to the other treatments, followed by scraping of seed coat with sandpaper + seeds soaked in GA3 100 ppm for 24 hours (T4) (56.00 %) whereas, minimum germination (31.33 %) was observed in control (T13). The results indicated that the seeds of guava possess physical dormancy. The remarkable effect of GA3 on germination percentage might be due to it acts as a growth regulator for breaking seed dormancy, plays an important role in the germination of seed by leaching out retardants and activates the cytological enzymes which stimulate α-amylase enzyme that converts insoluble sugar into soluble sugar (Babu et al., 2010, Hartmann and Kester, 1979). These results are in conformity with the findings of Boricha et al. (2020). They reported that maximum germination percentage of seedling (80.77%) were recorded in seeds treated with GA3 @ 150 mg/l for 24 hours in guava. Similarly, Joshi et al. (2015) reported that the germination of acid lime seeds was significantly influenced by GA3. Results are in accordance with the findings of Joshi et al. (2017) and Sharma (2016) in chironji.\r\nE. Height of seedling (cm)\r\nUnder different pre-sowing treatments height of seedlings varied from 2.75 cm to 4.59 cm (Table 1). Maximum height of seedlings (4.59 cm) was recorded with the treatment of scraping of seed coat with sandpaper + seeds soaked in GA3 200 ppm for 24 hours (T5) that was statistically at par with quick dip soaking in 30 % sulphuric acid solution T8(i) and scraping of seed coat with sandpaper + seeds soaked in GA3 100 ppm for 24 hours (T4) (4.46 cm and 4.40 cm, respectively). Results showed that minimum height of seedling (2.75 cm) was observed in control (T13). The reason might be that GA3 effect the elongation of internodes because it promotes cell elongation by improving osmotic uptake of nutrients resulting in increasing plant height (Feucht and Watson 1958, Krishnamoorthy and Sandooja 1981). Gibberellic acid regulates stem elongation by loosening cell walls, increasing cell wall extensibility, accelerating wall synthesis, narrowing the rigidity of cell wall and boosting cell division, all of which contribute to increased growth. These chemicals have a direct impact on stem elongation by increasing the synthesis of IAA (Leopold and Kriedeman, 1983). \r\n \r\nThese results are in conformity with the findings of Vasantha et al. (2014) in tamarind, Reshma and Simi (2019) in mango and Chiranjeevi et al. (2017) in aonla. They reported that maximum height of seedlings was observed in GA3 200 ppm.\r\nF. Survival percentage\r\nSurvival percentage of guava was significantly affected by the different pre-sowing treatments (Fig. 1). Survival percentage under different pre-sowing treatments ranged from 74.30 per cent to 85.43 per cent. Maximum survival percentage (85.43 %) was observed in scraping of seed coat with sandpaper + seeds soaked in GA3 200 ppm for 24 hours (T5) that was followed by seed soaked in 0.1% KOH for 2 minutes (T6), quick dip soaking in 30% H2SO4 solution [T8(i)] and scraping of seed coat with sandpaper + seeds soaked in GA3 100 ppm for 24 hours (T4) i.e. 83.36, 82.44 and 82.08%, respectively. Minimum survival percentage (74.30 %) was observed in control (T13). The possible cause for the higher survival percentage was the early germination of guava seeds which helps in successful acclimatization and establishment of seedlings in field conditions. The observation analogues to these findings were observed by Joshi et al. (2017) in chironji. They concluded that seeds treated with GA3 (200 ppm) for 24 hours results in maximum survival percentage (64.13 %). Results are also in correspondence with the findings of Manekar et al. (2011) in aonla, Dinesh et al. (2019) and Banyal et al. (2022) in guava.\r\n','Manish Kumar, Sushil Sharma, Satpal Baloda, Hardeep and Deepak Sangwan (2022). Effect of Pre-Sowing Treatments on Seed Germination of Guava (Psidium guajava L.). Biological Forum – An International Journal, 14(3): 390-394.'),(5284,'136','Performance of Cherry Tomato (Solanum lycopersicum var. cerasiforme (Dunal) A. Gray) Genotypes for Physico-chemical Attributes under Naturally Ventilated Protected Structure','Raj Narayan*, Arun Kishor, Sumati Narayan and Anil Kumar','65 Performance of Cherry Tomato (Solanum lycopersicum var. cerasiforme (Dunal) A. Gray) Genotypes for Physico-chemical Attributes under Naturally Ventilated Protected Structure Raj Narayan.pdf','',1,'The cherry tomato is considered as an important protective food due to its well-balanced nutritional and high antioxidant property. Wide adaption to a particular environment and consistent performance of recommended genotypes is the key question for its commercialization. Although few varieties for cultivation of cherry tomato have been evaluated and recommended so far but the information on the stability is still far behind for the agro-climatic condition. Therefore, a pertinent need was felt initially to evaluate and screen the potential genotypes of cherry tomato for their growth, yield and nutritional quality, fruit colour under protected growing conditions. The diverse climatic conditions as well as heavy rainfall during monsoon and severe cold and snowfall during winters in Kumaon hills of Uttarkhand favours cultivation of cherry tomatoes under protected structures. So far very meager systematic work on evaluation, identification and development of cherry tomato genotype has been reported and very few varieties of cherry tomato have been evaluated and recommended for cultivation in agro-climatic condition of Uttarakhand. The current study was aimed to assess the performance of various cherry tomato genotypes under polycarbonate sheet covered natural ventilated protected structure conditions for their growth, yield, quality and fruit colour attributes. In this field-laboratory experiment, conducted during 2017-18, eleven diverse genotypes were evaluated at an altitude around 2170m above sea level of Kumaun hills of Uttarakhand (India) for growth, yield and quality parameters under Naturally Ventilated Polycarbonate Sheet Green House condition in a Randomized Complete Block Design (RCBD) with three replications. The growth and yield parameters were determined in the field observations, while as the ripen fruits were analyzed for biochemical parameter in the laboratory following standard procedures. The study revealed that the genotype CITH-M-CT-6 manifested the maximum plant height (330.23 cm) and number of fruits/plant (275.00) whereas highest average fruit yield per plant (1.54 kg) and TSS content (6.800B) were determined in CITH-CT-7. Highest carotene (1693.47mg/100g) and antioxidant activity (35.32 mMTE/L) were observed in CITH-M-CT-1 and CITH-M-CT-5, respectively. The fruits of CITH-M-CT-2 (Red) and CITH-M-CT-4 possessed highest value of ascorbic acid (54.65 mg 100g-1). The genotypes CITH-M-CT-2 (Yellow) exhibited highest values for luminous (L) (50.03) yellow-blue (b) (+60.35), chroma (C) (62.57) and hº (hº = 77.19). Higher values of GCV and heritability and genetic advance were estimated for average fruit weight, number of fruits/plant, carotene content and ascorbic acid content which indicated that these traits had additive gene effect and, therefore, are more reliable for effective selection. Further, the traits viz., average fruit weight, number of fruits/plant, carotene content and ascorbic acid content are under additive gene effects and more reliable for effective selection in present context of this experimentation.','Cherry tomato, genotype, genetic variability, Heritability quality, yield','From the present study, it was found that among eleven cherry tomato genotypes namely CITH-M-CT-7, CITH-M-CT-2 (R), CITH-M-CT-7 and CITH-M-CT-4 were superior for yield and some quality attributes and for better and attractive colour CITH-M-CT-2 (Y) was the best genotype. Hence, these genotypes have the potential for cultivation inside protected structure at high altitude of Kumaon hills. Sufficient variability existed in the present genetic materials of cherry tomato which could be used as breeding materials for further improvement and to breed new ecotype through selection and/or hybridization procedures. It is also inferred that the superior genotypes namely CITH-M-CT-7, CITH-M-CT-2 (R), CITH-M-CT-7 and CITH-M-CT-4 could be recommended for cultivation in the region. Apart from it, the present genetic materials of cherry tomato could be used as breeding materials for further improvement and to breed new ecotype through selection and procedures as there is sufficient variability existed in the materials. Moreover, cherry tomato has a great scope of cultivation as off season crop under natural ventilated protected structures during summer-kharif in high hills of Kumaon region which will fetch higher remuneration to the growers.','INTRODUCTION\r\nTomato (Solanum lycopresicum L.) is one of the most important solanaceous vegetable crops grown widely all over the world and is native to South America (Rick, 1969). Cherry tomato (Solanum lycopersicum var. cerasiforme (Dunal) A. Gray) is a botanical variety of the cultivated tomato having chromosome number 2n=24. It is thought to be the ancestor of all cultivated tomatoes. It is less popular in India due to lack of awareness for its nutritive values and unavailability of high yielding varieties of cherry tomato. It is widely cultivated in Central America and is distributed in California, Korea, Germany, Mexico and Florida. It is a warm season crop reasonably tolerant to heat and drought. It is also known as salad tomato possessing good taste and is one of the emerging delicious high value fruit vegetable crops and is considered as an exotic vegetable bringing new taste and appearance to dishes. Thapa et al. (2014) considered it’s an important protective food due to its well-balanced nutrition consisting of minerals (K, Mn, P, Cu, Ca, Fe, Zn), Vitamins (A, B1, B2, C, E, K, etc), dietary fibre, citric acid and high antioxidant property. Carotenoids are also responsible for the colour of tomatoes, in that lycopene is mainly responsible for red color (Holden et al., 1999). The information on the nature and extent of genetic variability for various characteristics would help in choosing the right parent for the development of variety with improved desirable genotype of cherry tomato. Though cherry tomato became popular as a cash crop in some Asian countries, but is still new in India. It is, therefore, essential to assess the quantum of genetic variability, heritability and expected genetic advance with respect to different characters, which would help plant breeders in planning a successful breeding programme to breed new ecotype. Genetic parameters like genotypic coefficient of variation (GCV), phenotypic coefficient of variation (PCV), heritability and genetic advance are useful biometrical tools for determination of genetic variability present in the germplasm material. As the yield is a complex character, quantitative in nature and an integrated function of a number of component traits, therefore, information on the nature and degree of genetic divergence for fruit characters would help in choosing the right parent for the development of variety with improved desirable genotype of cherry tomato. \r\nWide adaption to a particular environment and consistent performance of recommended genotypes is the key question for its commercialization. Although few varieties for cultivation of cherry tomato have been evaluated and recommended so far but the information on the stability is still far behind for the agro-climatic condition. Some researchers viz., Malavika and Sheela (2017); Yimchunger et al. (2018); Anwarzai et al. (2020); Pandurangaiah et al. (2020); Mathew and Caitlin (2022) have assessed the performance of genotypes of cherry tomato under various conditions. Malavika and Sheela (2017) assessed the performance of ten genotypes of cherry tomato inside rain shelter and reported SLc-10 and SLc-9 genotypes for cultivation inside rain shelter in Vellanikkara. Yimchunger et al. (2018) evaluated six genotypes of cherry tomato under foothill condition of Nagaland and Swarna Ratan was found potential yielding variety. Anwarzai et al. (2020) evaluated twenty one cherry tomato genotypes evaluated for growth, and yield parameters and recorded maximum fruit length in COHBT-198 (5.00 cm), maximum fruit girth (4.00 cm) in COHBT-209, COHBT-198 and COHBT-208, whereas genotype COHBT-198 recorded maximum average fruit weight (43.90 g) and fruit yield per plant (2.30 kg). Similarly, Mathew and Caitlin (2022) six varieties of cherry tomatoes in six cropping system at four locations and observed that productivity often varied among cultivars within a cropping system. ‘Terenzo’ and ‘Tumbler’ were always some of the most productive cultivars, whereas ‘Micro Tom’ was normally among the least productive cultivars. The production from ‘Red Robin’, ‘Tiny Tim’, and ‘Sweat ‘n’ Neat’ was more variable, sometimes producing high, moderate, or low mass. The diverse climatic conditions as well as heavy rainfall during monsoon and severe cold and heavy snowfall during winters in Kumaon hills of Uttarkhand favours cultivation of cherry tomatoes under protected structures. Therefore, a pertinent need was felt initially to evaluate and screen the potential genotypes of cherry tomato for their growth, yield and nutritional quality, fruit colour under protected growing conditions. Keeping this in view, 11 cherry tomato inbred lines were evaluated for growth, yield, and quality attributes as well as genetic components viz., genetic variability, heritability and genetic advance with a view to identify suitable genotype for greenhouse cultivation as well as to breed new varieties/hybrids for growing under protected structures in high altitude.\r\nMATERIALS AND METHODS\r\nThe present experiment was conducted at ICAR-CITH Regional Station, Mukteshwar, Nainital (UK) during summer-kharif season of 2017-18. The campus is located in the Nainital district of Uttarakhand (29° 0 to 29°5 N; 78°80 to 80°14E), elevated at around 2170 m above sea level. Eleven genotypes were evaluated for growth, yield and quality parameters under Naturally Ventilated Polycarbonate Sheet Green House condition in a Randomized Complete Block Design (RCBD) with three replications at plant spacing of 45×60cm following uniform cultivation practices of plants. Total soluble solids (TSS) was measured by hand refractometer and other quality parameters were determined as per AOAC (1975). The fruit juice was used to determine total soluble solids (TSS) by using a refractometer (ERMA refractometer 0-32 brix). Titratable acidity (TA) was measured by titration of 2 ml of homogenated juice with added 2 drops of 1 % phenolphthalein and titrated by N/10 NaOH solution till it becomes light pink in colour. Ascorbic acid content was measured by using 2, 6 Di chlorophenol indophenols method and reducing sugar was estimated as per the procedure described by Ranganna (2010).For estimation of total carotenoids, the samples were extracted in 3% acetone in petroleum ether. Total carotenoids were read colorimetrically using 3% acetone in petroleum ether for baseline correction and the absorbance at 452 nm was recorded against a reagent blank. The antioxidants activity was expressed as m mol Trolox per litre (mMTE/L) and analyzed as per the method of Apak et al. (2004).\r\nThe colour value of different tomato genotypes were obtained in terms of viz. luminous (L*), red colour (a*), yellow colour (b*), chroma (C*) and hue angle (hº) values using a Lovibond RT series reflectance tintometer. The \'L*\' describes luminosity or lightness and varies from Zero (Black) to 100 (perfect white). The chromaticity dimension \'a*\' magnitude redness when positive, greyness when zero and greenness when negative. The \'b*\' value describes yellowness when positive, grey when zero and blueness when negative. The \'C*\' measures the chroma (saturation) of the colour, a measure of how far from the great tone the colour is. Hue angle (hº), measures the hue of the colour, i.e., colour tonalities (red, green, yellow etc.) (Kishor et al., 2017). The data were statistically analyzed by using the standard statistical procedure (Gomez and Gomez, 1984). Genotypic and phenotypic coefficients of variation were calculated as per the formulae given by Burton and De Vane (1953). The heritability in broad sense and expected genetic advance were calculated as per the method of Jonson et al. (1955) while as estimates of genetic advance as percentage of mean were calculated following method of Comstock and Robinson (1952).\r\nRESULTS AND DISCUSSION\r\nA. Growth components\r\nStatistically analyzed mean data of the experiment revealed that most of the growth contributing characters under observation had shown significant differences among the genotypes. The per se performance of cherry tomato genotypes for growth characters is given in Table 1. Perusal of data of Table 1 depicted that genotype differed significantly among themselves for plant growth characteristics and the wide variation among the genotypes for plant growth traits viz., plant height, number of branches/plant, average length of branch and plant spread (E-W & N-S) may be due to genetic constitution of different genotypes. A wide variation among the different genotypes in growth parameters viz., plant height, number of primary branches, average length of primary branches and plant spread (east-west and north-south) were observed which may be due to genetic constitution of different genotypes. The variation in plant growth in terms of plant height, number of primary branches/plant, average length of primary branches and plant spread (east-west and north-south) were observed among the genotypes and varied from 81.43 cm to 330.23 cm, 3.33 to 6.66, 65.33 cm to 229.00cm, 43.36 cm to 91.60 cm and 46.56 cm to 83.96 cm, respectively. The maximum plant height of 330.23 cm was recorded in genotype CITH-M-CT-6 followed by 313.33 cm in CITH-M-CT-6 while it was minimum in 2016/TOCVR-1 (81.43 cm). The genotype CITH-M-CT-5 produced maximum number of primary branches/plant (6.66) and the second tallest genotype i.e., CITH-M-CT-7 exhibited maximum average length of primary branches (229.00 cm). These results were supported by the findings of Swaroop and Suryanarayan (2005) who found the significant variation on plant growth and yield in all different 24 lines of tomato (Lycopersicon esculentum Mill) lines. The significant variation among the tomato genotypes under polyhouse was also reported by Narayan et al. (2020). The optimum temperature, high carbon dioxide concentration and better light distribution are necessary for optimum plant growth and development under polyhouse conditions. Performance of any crop with respect to growth, yield and quality are highly influenced by various factors especially the genetic constitution of a variety, the microclimate of an area and crop management. The wide range of variation obtained may be due to divergent genotypes included in the study. Similar findings have been reported for plant height, yield/plant and fruit diameter (Patil et al., 2013). It is also influenced by the microclimatic condition surrounding the tomato plant and cultural practices under the polyhouse conditions. Malavika et al. (2017) also observed significant variation for plant height among the 10 genotypes of cherry tomato evaluated under rain shelter. Wide variations among the genotypes of cherry tomato in regard to plant height and number of branches/plant were also reported by Yimchunger et al. (2018).\r\nB. Fruit yield components\r\nThe genotypes differed significantly for yield attributes and ranged from 20.98 to 33.71 mm, 15.45 to 30.36 mm, 78.33 to 275.00 and 0.298 to 1.540 g in fruit length, fruit breadth, and number of fruits/plant and fruit yield/plant, respectively. Perusal of data of Table 1 depicted that among the genotypes, CITH-M-CT-6 exhibited maximum number of fruits/plant (275.00) while as highest average fruit breadth (30.36mm), fruit weight (19.17g) and fruit yield/plant (1.54 kg) were recorded in CITH-CT-7 under polycarbonate sheet covered natural ventilated protected structure. The top yielding genotype also possessed higher values for average length of primary branches, fruit breadth and average fruit weight. The highest number of fruits producing genotype i.e. CITH-M-CT-6 was stood third in production of fruits/plant with 1.160 g fruits/plant and second was CITH-M-CT-2 (R) with 1.356 g fruit yield/plant. Whereas, minimum number of fruits/plant (78.33), average fruit weight (5.34 g) and fruit yield/plant (0.298 g) were recorded in CITH-M-CT-3, 2016/TOCVR-6 and CITH-M-CT-2 (Y), respectively (Table 1). More number of fruits/plant may be due to more plant height. Likewise, the variation in average fruit weight might be due to inverse relationship existing between average fruit weight, and number of fruits/cluster. This was conformity with the findings of Renuka et al. (2017) and Anwarzai et al. (2020). The highest fruit yield may be attributed to the favorable growth conditions that prevailed under polyhouse and also due to its protective ability against major abiotic stresses, which reduces the effect of excessive rainfall, water logging as well as provide controlled environment. Shorter fruit length, fruit girth and fruit width of cherry tomato genotype may due to character of cerasiforme species. The present result correlates with the findings of (Kumar et al., 2014) in cherry tomato. Malavika et al. (2017); Yimchunger et al. (2018) are also observed the significant variations on yield and yield attributing characters in different accessions of cherry tomato. The vigorous growth of tomato inside shed net house might be due to prevalence of micro climate and optimum light intensity inside the shade net house, and the result was in accordance with the findings of (Rana et al., 2014) in tomato. Higher yield of cherry tomato was mainly due to more number of fruits/ plant resulting from more number of flowers and fruits/cluster in addition to comparatively more number of primary, secondary branches and plant height. \r\nC. Nutritional quality attributes of fruit\r\nThe genotypes studied for different nutritional quality characteristics of fruit are represented in Table Fig. 1. The cherry tomatoes developed for fresh market and processing should have distinct quality characteristics. For processing and fresh market consumption, fruits should be firm, well coloured with acceptable flavour. Genotypes exhibited significant differences for the biochemical attributes and showed wide variation among themselves for qualitative fruit traits namely fruit firmness, TSS, titrable acidity, ascorbic acid, reducing sugar, carotene, antioxidant contents and colour of fruits which might be due to genetic constitution of different genotypes. Among the present materials of cherry tomato, most firmer fruits (5.41 lb/in2) were produced by the CITH-M-CT-2 (R) and it was at par with CITH-M-CT-1 (3.75 lb/in2) and CITH-M-CT-5 (3.66 lb/in2) while as least firmer fruits were found in CITH-M-CT-2 (Y) CITH-M-CT-3, 2016/TOCVR-4 and 2016/TOCVR-6 (2.25 lb/in2). A high total soluble solid (TSS) is the major attribute considered for preparation of processed products. According to Berry et al. (1988); Shivanand (2008), one per cent increase in TSS content of fruits results in 20 per cent increase in recovery of processed product. The data pertaining to the total soluble solid (°B) showed significant differences among the different cherry tomato genotypes. The variation in TSS content in different genotypes of cherry tomato was noticed from 4.53°B to 6.80°B. The maximum TSS content (6.80°B) was recorded in genotype CITH-M-CT-7 which was significantly superior to other genotypes namely CITH-M-CT-3, CITH-M-CT-2, 2016/TOCVR-4 whereas it was found minimum (4.53°B) in CITH-M-CT-3. The genotype CITH-M-CT-7 with 6.80°B TSS was statistically at par with remaining genotypes and also possessed maximum values for reducing sugars i.e. 4.31%. Titrable acidity showed significant differences among the different cherry tomato genotypes and maximum acidity (0.78%) was observed in CITH-M-CT-5 followed by CITH-M-CT-3 (0.84%) and 2016/TOCVR-6 (0.78%) while as it was minimum acidity in CITH-M-CT-2 (R) (0.23%) and CITH-M-CT-2 (Y) (0.44%). Rana et al. (2014) stated that the low values of titrable acidity were because of red fruits used for analysis. Similar results for TSS and acidity were reported by Yimchunger et al. (2018); Anwarzai et al. (2020) in cherry tomato and Narayan et al. (2020) in tomato. The ascorbic acid content in different genotypes of cherry tomato varied from 24.45 mg to 54.65 mg/100g of pulp with highest of 54.65 mg/100g in genotype CITH-M-CT-2 (R) and CITH-M-CT-4while the lowest was recorded in genotype CITH-M-CT-1 with 24.45 mg/100 g of fruit pulp. These results are in conformity with findings of Caliman et al. (2010) and Manna and Paul (2012).\r\nLycopene pigment in cherry tomato fruit is considered as a nutritional factor because of its antioxidant nature. The carotene content in fruits (mg/100g) showed significant differences among the different cherry tomato genotypes (Fig. 1). The genotype CITH-M-CT-1 recorded maximum carotene content of 1693.47mg/100g which was followed by CITH-M-CT-5 (1663.29mg/100g) and CITH-M-CT (R) (1524.54mg/100g) while it was found minimum CITH-M-CT (Y) (160.19mg/100g). Similar results are reported by Najeema et al. (2018). It was envisaged that the attractive yellow fruit colour might be due to presence of β-carotene and the red colour of the fruit due to lycopene which act as an antioxidant. Bhandari et al. (2016) recorded high antioxidant and lycopene contents (>1930 mg/kg) in cherry tomato. Highest antioxidant activity (35.32 mMTE/L ) was found in CITH-M-CT-5 followed by CITH-M-CT-5 (32.22 mMTE L-1), CITH-M-CT-1 (30.89 mMTE L-1) CITH-M-CT-2 (Red) (30.45 mMTE/L) whereas minimum values were noted in CITH-M-CT-2 (R) (6.40 mMTE/L). Present findings supported by the results obtained by Narayan et al. (2020) in tomato. Prema et al. (2011) also observed variation in cherry tomato genotype in respect of quality attributes viz., firmness of fruits and TSS, ascorbic acid, lycopene content of fruits. \r\nD. Fruit colour parameters\r\nThe fruit colour parameters of different cherry tomato genotypes are presented in Fig. 2. The ground colour and blush depend on sunlight during ripening. Low value of \'L*\' indicates dark fruit skin. The genotypes CITH-M-CT-2 (Y) (L*= 50.03) was found the most luminous, followed by CITH-M-CT-1 (L*= 37.29) and CITH-M-CT-1 (L*= 36.56); while the lowest values were observed in 2016/TOCVR-4 (L*= 24.25). The \'a*\' or red-green values showed significant difference in the present material of study. The highest red colour was found in CITH-M-CT-4 (a*= +29.63) followed by CITH-M-CT-6 (a*= +24.49) and CITH-M-CT-2 (R) (a*= +22.84) while lowest red colour values were noted in 2016/TOCVR-6 (a*= +13.19). The \'b*\' or yellow-blue component values were highest (b*= +60.35) in CITH-M-CT-2 (Y) and the lowest values were in 2016/TOCVR-4 (b*= +12.28). The croma (C*) values measure colour saturation intensity, a measure of how far from the great tone the colour is. The CITH-M-CT-2 (Yellow) depicted maximum chroma (C*= 62.57) followed by CITH-M-CT-4 (C*= 40.39) whereas minimum values of chroma was noticed in CITH-M-CT-1 (C*= 22.64). The hue angle (hº) correlates with \'a*\' and \'b*\' values. It is a good factor to assess the changes of characteristics colour in these genotypes. Lowest hº values indicates a redder colour as exemplified by 2016/TOCVR-4 (hº= 30.90) which was at par with CITH-M-CT-2(R) (hº= 31.38) and 2016/TOCVR-1 (hº= 43.61); whereas CITH-M-CT-2 (Y) (hº= 7.19) showed the highest hº value (Fig. 2). Pandurangaiah et al. (2020) found a strong correlations between color surface value a* and total carotenoids (0.82) and lycopene content (0.87). They also observed positive correlation for the b* color value with carotene (0.86). The L* value was negatively correlated (-0.78) with an increase in carotenoids. These close associations between color space values L*, a*, b* and carotenoids will help the breeders to quickly screen large germplasm/breeding lines in their breeding program for improvement in carotenoid content through this time saving, inexpensive and nondestructive method at fully ripe stage.\r\nE. Estimation of coefficient of variations, heritability and genetic advance\r\nThe extent of variability among the genotypes was estimated in term of lowest and highest mean values for all characters, phenotypic coefficient of variations (PCV), genotypic coefficient of variations (GCV), heritability, genetic advance and genetic advance as percentage of mean studied for growth yield and quality parameters except fruit colour attributes and data are presented in Table 2. Perusal of data of Table 3 exhibited high estimates of GCV and PCV for average fruit weight (897.81 & 934.71), ascorbic acid content (256.47 & 256.52), carotene content (144.34 & 144.39), number of fruits/plant (238.10 & 244.38), fruit yield/plant (61.97& 63.17) and average length of primary branches (42.76 & 44.07); indicating the presence of wide range of genetic variability for these traits and chances for improvement of these traits though selection to be fairly high. Most of the traits under study depicted very good scope for improvement through selection as indicative of the presence of sufficient coefficients of genotypic and phenotypic variations. Similar findings were also reported by Narayan et al. (2020) in tomato.\r\nGenotypic coefficients of variation do not estimate the variations that are heritable (Falconer, 1960), hence estimation of heritability becomes necessary. Heritability in broad sense is a parameter of tremendous significance to the breeders as its magnitude indicates the reliability with which a genotype can be recognized by its phenotypic expression. Data revealed that the estimates of heritability were high for most of traits under study and ranged from 58 to 100%, except for antioxidants activity (54.00) and average fruit length (58.00) which showed moderate heritability. The heritability estimates worked out in present study are in consonance with earlier reports by (Mohamed et al., 2012) for plant height, fruit weight and number of branches/plant in different genotypes of tomato; Kumar and Arumugam (2010) for polar diameter, TSS, plant height, fruits/plant, average fruit weight and yield/plant. The highest heritability for vegetative and yield traits were found for traits like plant height (80%), primary branch length (94%), number of branches/plant (85%) number of fruits/plant (96%), fruit weight (91%) and fruit yield/plant (81%). Likewise, the qualitative attributes viz., titrable acidity (100%), ascorbic acid (99%), carotene content (99%) and reducing sugar (92%)also exhibited highest values for heritability. Johnson et al.(1955) stated that the estimates of heritability along with genetic advance are more reliable than heritability alone for predicting the effect of selection. Maximum genetic advance was exhibited in carotene content (720.46) followed by average fruit weight (546.55) and number of fruits/plant (104.46) whereas genetic advance as parentage of mean was highest for average fruit weight (2851.06) followed by number of fruits/plant (71.87), carotene content (56.15) and titrable acidity content (53.22). Heritability, genetic advance as percent of mean and genotypic coefficient of variation together could provide best image of the amount of advance to be expected from selection (Johnson et al., 1955). Therefore, this observation indicated that these traits are under additive gene effects and more reliable for effective selection. In present study, high GCV and heritability estimates associated with greater genetic advance was observed for average fruit weight, number of fruits/plant, carotene content and ascorbic acid content which indicated that these traits had additive gene effect and, therefore, are more relative for effective selection. However, high heritability but low GA and low GCV for number of primary branches/plant, average fruit breadth, TSS, titrable acidity, reducing sugar and average fruit yield/plant showed the involvement of non-additive gene action and the selection upon these traits might not be promising. Similar results were reported by Singh and Narayan (2004), and Narayan et al. (2020) in tomato varieties. According to Burton and De Vane (1953), genetic coefficients of variability along with heritability estimates would provide a reliable indication of expected degree of improvement through selection in plant breeding.\r\nCharacters with low heritability and low genetic advance can be improved through hybridization (Liang and Walter, 1968; Anjum et al., 2009). Therefore, the traits like average fruit length and antioxidants activity of cherry tomato can only be improved through hybridization since both traits produced low heritability along with low genetic advance. \r\n \r\n\r\nIslam et al. (2012) also obtained high geno- and phenotypic coefficients of variation for individual fruit weight, number of fruits/plant as well as high estimates of heritability, genetic advance and genotypic coefficient of variation for the traits like individual fruit weight, number of fruits/plant in cherry tomato, indicated that these characteristics were controlled by additive gene action and the selection based on phenotype for these traits might be effective. Similarly high heritability coupled with moderate GA and GCV for fruit breadth suggested that selection might be effective for this trait.','Raj Narayan, Arun Kishor, Sumati Narayan and Anil Kumar (2022). Performance of Cherry Tomato (Solanum lycopersicum var. cerasiforme (Dunal) A. Gray) Genotypes for Physico-chemical Attributes under Naturally Ventilated Protected Structure. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 14(3): 395-403.'),(5285,'136','Assessment of Insect Abundance and Diversity Associated with Sorghum Ecosystem','R. Srivarsha, T. Srinivasan*, R. Arulprakash and R. Ravikesavan','66 Assessment of Insect Abundance and Diversity Associated with Sorghum Ecosystem T. Srinivasan.pdf','',1,'An intensive survey was conducted during Rabi 2021 at Tamil Nadu Agricultural University, Coimbatore, to investigate the insect diversity in sorghum agroecosystem. Sampling was done from seedling to maturity stages at weekly intervals to assess the richness and diversity of insect pests and natural enemies using well-known diversity indices viz., Simpson\'s diversity index, Shannon-Wiener diversity index, Margalef richness index, and Pielou\'s evenness index. A total of 46 species of insect species have been recorded from different orders including Hemiptera (7), Diptera (6), Coleoptera (4), Hymenoptera (4), Orthoptera (3), Lepidoptera (3) and one species each under Mantodea, Dictyoptera, Neuroptera and Dermaptera. The highest percent relative abundance was found in Hemiptera (77.09%) followed by Coleoptera (9.10%), Hymenoptera (6.34%) and Diptera (5.21%) while the remaining orders contributing less than one percent of total population. The biodiversity analysis using Shannon-Wiener index and Margalef’s richness index revealed that Coleoptera had more diversity (2.201 and 1.922, respectively); Simpson\'s index was highest for Hemiptera (0.7514), and the equitability index was highest for Lepidoptera (0.9012) indicating greater diversity of insects in sorghum ecosystem. Understanding the biodiversity interactions in sorghum ecosystems will have a wider utility in developing effective management measures against major insect pests.','Sorghum, biodiversity, diversity indices, insects, pests, ecology, Coimbatore','Intensive survey in sorghum agroecosystem in TNAU premises at weekly intervals revealed the presence of 46 insect species from a collection of 3,361 individuals representing an array of functions viz., pests, natural enemies, scavengers, pollinators etc., The current work will be useful in the future for the use of specific management practices in sorghum fields, which will contribute to the sustainability of the agro-ecosystem. The agroecosystem, though man-made, display a diversified and widely distributed entomofauna.','INTRODUCTION \r\nSorghum, a grain crop used for both human and animal consumption, is the sixth most dryland crop. Sorghum and other coarse grains have historically been the central part of the diet of rural and lower-income semi-urban households in India. India ranks sixth in total sorghum output with 4.8 million tonnes, with Tamil Nadu producing 4.27 lakh tonnes (INDIASTAT, 2021). Sorghum, popularly known as \"cholam,\" is grown in Tamil Nadu for both grain and fodder purposes. From the time of emergence until the late stages of grain filling, more than 150 species of insects have been identified as sorghum pests (Harris, 1995).\r\nBiodiversity is a function of the total number of taxa present, the evenness with which they are dispersed (either within species or within families), and the relationship between richness and evenness, or diversity (Ludwig and Reynolds, 1988). Insect diversity accounts for more than 80% of the diversity of species on the planet, making them a common choice for ecological indicators (Samways, 1993).\r\nStudies on the status pertaining to insect diversity in sorghum ecosystems are considerably poor. Therefore, an attempt was made to assess the diversity and abundance of sorghum insect pests and natural enemies in sorghum ecosystem to have a better understanding of the selection pressure to which the crop is subjected to.\r\nMATERIALS AND METHODS\r\nArthropod diversity in sorghum was studied at the Millet Breeding Station, Tamil Nadu Agricultural University (TNAU), Coimbatore during Rabi 2021 (11°01\'01.8\"N 76°55\'50.5\"E; 420 MSL). Sorghum variety Co 32 was cultivated in an area of around 1.4 acre with standard package of practices. Arthropod sampling was undertaken at weekly intervals from 7 days after germination to harvest spanning a total of 110 days. Different sampling methods were employed viz net sweeping, pitfall traps and light traps. Net sweeping was carried out by walking diagonally inside the field in the morning and evening hours. Five places were chosen randomly and 15-20 net sweeps were done at each place to collect insects. Pitfall traps were kept at 7 different sites randomly in the field and collections were made at weekly intervals. Light trap was set up twice per week between 7 pm and 11 pm and the samples were collected the following morning. The insect samples collected were preserved using dry and wet preservation techniques (stored in 70 percent ethanol) for identification (Schauff, 1986). \r\nArthropod diversity was assessed using various diversity indices that included Shannon-Wiener index (Shannon & Weiner, 1949) for species diversity, Simpson’s diversity index (Simpson, 1949) for species dominance, Margalef’s index (Margalef, 1958) for species richness and Equitability J index (Magurran, 1987) for species evenness.\r\nRESULTS AND DISCUSSION\r\nA total of 3,361 individuals were collected which comprised of 46 species falling under of 30 families with the most dominant ones being the Hemiptera. The detailed list of the species is provided in Table 1. \r\nThe most abundant insect order was Hemiptera comprising 77.09% of the total population. Within the order, Peregrinus maidis was the most abundant species noticed in sorghum. Chelliah and Basheer (1965) reported that this pest may even cause death of the plant in severe cases. Pentatomid insects like Nezara viridula, Dolycoris indicus and Menida versicolor (Reddy and Davies 1979; Prabhakar et al., 1981) have been reported damaging sorghum panicles. Pyrilla spp. also has been reported as a potential pest. So far, many mirid bugs have been reported attacking sorghum of which Calocoris angustatus was found to be a key pest in southern parts of India (Sharma and Lopez 1990). Hoppers like Nephotettix spp. (Kalaisekar et al., 2017), Cofana spp. and Proutista moesta (Caasi-Lit 2018) were reported infesting sorghum and maize.\r\nThe second most abundant order, Coleoptera, made up 9.10% of all insect species. Many of coleopteran species were natural enemies of pests infesting sorghum. Cheilomenes sexmaculata, Micraspis spp. And Chilocorus melas were reported as natural enemies in sorghum ecosystem (Sherlin et al., 2019). El-Gepaly (2019) also reported the following four species as predators of sorghum: Coccinella transversalis, Scymnus spp., Chrysoperla spp. And Paederus fuscipes. Kalaisekar et al. (2017) reported Altica spp. and Myllocerus spp. as pests infesting sorghum and millets in India. Monolepta signata and Aulocophora foveicollis were reported as defoliators of sorghum (Reddy and Davies 1979). The record of Oxyrachis tarandus, a pest of pigeon pea may be due to the presence of a pulse crop in the vicinity.\r\nHymenoptera was the next abundant order with 6.34% of total population. Tarihoran et al. (2020) reported hymenoptera as the most abundant order in sorghum ecosystem in Indonesia. He has reported that, the relative density value is high in the family Formicidae. Srivastava and Bryson (1956) reported Solenopsis spp. as the serious pest of planted sorghum seeds. Apis cerana indica and Ropalidia marginata were observed as pollinator and predator respectively. Diptera with 5.21% relative abundance has the most important pests such as Contarinia sorghicola and Atherigona soccata (Reddy and Davies 1979). Lepidopteran pests such as Chilo partellus (Young 1970) and Spodoptera frugiperda (Wilde 2006) were also recorded. Despite having a significant economic impact, these pests were not well represented in the collection. This may be caused by environmental factors like the weather, season, or type of light source, among others.\r\nMohyuddin (1970) reported a list of parasitoids attacking graminaceous stem borers which includes Braconidae and Tachinidae. Camponotus compressus, Euantissa spp., Orthotylus spp. and long legged bug were reported as predators by Sherlin et al. (2019). There are previous records of soil dwelling insects such as earwig by Hassan (1987) and sorghum root weevil, Apinocis deplanatus recorded by Bryson (1941) attacking sorghum and sugarcane. Atractomorpha crenulata was also found attacking millets. There are also reports of other acridids attacking sorghum (Reddy and Davies 1979). However, there are no reports of Plecia spp. and Dictyoptera in sorghum ecosystem. Other orders including Neuroptera, Mantodea, Dictyoptera and Dermaptera contributes less than one percent of total population.\r\nThe Shannon–Wiener diversity index, Simpson’s diversity index, Margalef’s richness index and Pielou’s evenness were used as heterogeneity measures for computing diversity (Table 2). It could be observed that Shannon-Wiener index was the maximum for Coleoptera (2.201). Since each individual in this order belongs to a different species, their diversity index is the larger than others. The dominance as measured by Simpson’s dominance index has values ranging from 0.12 to 0.75. Thus, the order Hemiptera (0.7514) had the maximum dominance index value and also it is the order with the most number of families. Hemiptera also has highest number of individual species count thus making it dominant over other orders. The value of Margalef index is different for all the Orders; maximum in Coleoptera (1.922) indicating high level of species richness, while least in Orthoptera (0.572) indicating low level of species richness. Pielou’s evenness values range from 0 to 1.0, with 1.0 representing complete evenness (Magurran 2004). The order Lepidoptera (0.9012) with the Pielou’s evenness value nearing 1 is considered to be having a more balanced distribution of species in the community.\r\nThese results are in agreement with those reported by Duffield (1995) who interpreted higher insect abundance to edaphic and locally prevailing ecological factors. Wang et al. (2000) stated that the reduction in species richness was mainly caused by biotic and abiotic factors; therefore, distribution of insect pests and predatory species in the selected study area seemed to be dependent on climatic factors such as temperature, relative humidity, rainfall and wind.\r\n','R. Srivarsha, T. Srinivasan, R. Arulprakash and R. Ravikesavan (2022). Assessment of Insect Abundance and Diversity Associated with Sorghum Ecosystem. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 14(3): 404-408.'),(5286,'136','Biological Management of Dry Root Rot of Groundnut using Trichoderma harzianum and Pseudomonas fluorescens under Glasshouse conditions','M. Mahendra*, M. Reddi Kumar, C.P.D. Rajan and P. Sumathi','67 Biological Management of Dry Root Rot of Groundnut using Trichoderma harzianum and Pseudomonas fluorescens under Glasshouse Conditions Mahendra.pdf','',1,'Despite being major oil seed crop in Andhra Pradesh, groundnut has been suffering from recurrent incidence of dry rot disease. The pathogen being soil borne forms resistant propagules which can survive adverse environmental conditions and added regularly into the soil making the soil sick for economic cultivation. The chemical management practices though provide instant results were found to be ineffective in complete management of the disease besides posing environmental risks. To manage this major disease of groundnut, the current investigation involved combined application of bioformulations of Pseudomonas fluorescens and Trichoderma harzianum under glasshouse conditions. During the experiment we isolated six isolates of Trichoderma spp. and five isolates of P. fluorescens from the groundnut rhizosphere and tested their effectiveness in vitro against groundnut dry root rot pathogen, Macrophomina phaseolina. The outperforming isolates of antagonists were tested in vivo (pot culture) against the dry root rot disease. Among the six Trichoderma isolates tested against M. phaseolina in vitro, isolate GRT5 was found superior with highest mean inhibition (59.48%) when compared to the rest of the isolates but did not combine well with the bacterial antagonist. Among five isolates of P. fluorescens assessed in vitro against M. phaseolina, isolate PF4 recorded highest mean inhibition (36.11%). The glasshouse pot culture results indicated that, combined application of P. fluorescens @ 10 g + T. harzianum @ 8 g kg-1 of seed as seed treatment application coupled with soil application of consortia of the same @ 2 L + 80 kg of FYM + 5 kg of neem cake acre-1 outperformed other treatments with the highest plant biometrical parameters i.e., shoot length (22.39 cm), root length (34.47 cm), fresh weight (10.7 g) and dry weight (2.20 g). The treatment also yielded maximum initial and final plant populations (9.67, 8.67 respectively) with increased germination percentage (96.67%) and least PDI (3.70%).','Tricoderma harzianum, Pseudomonas fluorescens, Macrophomina phaseolina, Per cent Disease Incidence (PDI)','Groundnut dry root has become major disease with greater yield losses every year. Chemical control found ineffective in managing the disease besides polluting the environment which is current burning issue in the human society. To address this problem the current investigation was made on utilization of rhizosphere antimicrobial agents such as Trichoderma spp. and P. fluorescens. The research started with isolation of biocontrol agents from the rhizosphere and plant pathogen from the diseased sample. The isolated biocontrol agents were further subjected to confirmational studies on suitable media. The effective combination of two or many biocontrol agents gives the advantage of synergism and complete control of pathogen as observed in the current study where GRT4 and PF4 were shown highly compatible under in vitro using dual culture technique. The treatment T10 which included both fungal and biocontrol agents performed better among other treatments, which is an indication of synergism exhibited by two varied biocontrol agents in pathogen management along with improved plant growth. Though biological control of plant disease appears promising with less environmental pollution and sustainable management of plant pathogens, often it fails to achieve the target due to inconsistency in its performance over wide range of ecological conditions. The future research is needed to address this problem of inconsistent performance of biocontrol agents which makes them then the real alternatives of chemical management of plant diseases. ','INTRODUCTION\r\nGroundnut is one of the major edible oil seed crops of Andhra Pradesh, occupying 0.66 M ha of area with 0.85 M t of average production and 1.28 t ha-1 of average productivity. Majority of groundnut crop in Andhra Pradesh is cultivated during kharif in Anantapuramu, Chittoor, Kurnool and Kadapa districts. Several biotic and abiotic factors are the causes of low productivity (1.28 t ha-1) of groundnut in A.P (Directorate of Economics and Statistics, 2019-20).\r\nPattee and Young (1982) reported that, M. phaseolina can cause pod, root, peg, stem and leaf spots on older and younger seedlings. The congenial conditions for the development of the disease are soil temperature of 80-95oF prevailing for two to three weeks. The pathogen is primarily soil borne and transport of implements, irrigation water and grazing animal from the infected field to healthy field transmits the disease. The air borne pycniospores also acts as potential dispersing agent for the pathogen (Rangaswami and Mahadevan 2008).\r\nThe current indiscriminate use of toxic chemicals alone to reduce the disease incidence resulted in environmental deterioration, additional financial burden to the farmer and fungicidal resistance development in the pathogen (Rudresh et al., 2005).\r\nConsidering the above demerits of using toxic chemicals to manage the disease, inclusion of biological control in the disease management has the good potential to ameliorate the environmental risks, provides long lasting management and reduces the chances of resistance build up in the target pathogen.\r\nUse of consortia formulation of potential biocontrol agents like PGPR bacteria and antagonistic fungi is the recent advancement in the field of plant protection. This approach besides controlling the diseases, increases the nutrient uptake, phosphorous solubilization and uptake, plant growth and finally the yield.\r\nMATERIALS AND METHODS\r\nPathogen, M. phaseolina isolation. The standard tissue segment method as described by Rangaswamy and Mahadvan, (1999) was followed for isolation of the pathogen from the infected plant sample.\r\nThe isolation includes cutting a small bit of host root tissue having both infected and healthy portions using sterilized scalpel. The cut pieces were kept for two minutes in one per cent sodium hypochlorite and washed thrice with sterile distilled water. The resultant root pieces were inoculated on to Petri plates containing sterilized potato dextrose agar (PDA) medium and incubated at 28 ± 2°C. The Petri plates were regularly inspected for the growth of the fungal pathogen and pure culture of the same was maintained following single hyphal tip method. PDA slants were used to store the pure cultures of the test pathogen.\r\nIdentification and morphological characterization of M. phaseolina. The morphological description of Barnett and Hunter, (1972) were followed for identification of M. phaseolina. The compound microscope (ACCU SCOPE-EX 30) was used to study the hyphal branching pattern, size and shape of microsclerotia.\r\nBiocontrol agents isolation. The Trichoderma spp. were isolated form the rhizosphere soil of groundnut following serial dilution technique on Trichoderma Specific Medium (TSM) (Johnson and Curl 1977).\r\nThe bacterial biocontrol agent, P. fluorescens isolates were isolated form the rhizosphere soil of groundnut and were purified following streak plate method. The isolated bacteria was found gram negative and emitted fluorescent light when illuminated with UV light. (Manjunatha et al., 2012).\r\nTrichoderma spp. taxonomic identification\r\nThe six isolates of Trichoderma spp. were classified up to species level using the Trichoderma morphological descriptions of Bisset, (1984, 1991 a, b, c). To do so, the characters of conidiophore branching, phialide shape, phialide grouping, chlamydospore formation, spore balls, conidial shape and sterile appendages were considered.\r\nIn vitro dual culture studies of biocontrol agents against M. phaseolina\r\nIn vitro fungal antagonist-test pathogen interaction. The standard dual culture technique described by Morton and Straube (1955) was followed for assessment of effectiveness of Trichoderma isolates against M. phaseolinain vitro. The test was conducted by inoculation of 5 mm mycelial discs of both the test pathogen and the fungal biocontrol agents opposite to each other form one cm away from the periphery of Petri plate containing PDA.\r\nWhen the test pathogen was fully occupied the control plate, the results of the dual culture were recorded.\r\nBacterial antagonist-test pathogen interactions in vitro. The P. fluorescens isolates were tested for their effectiveness against M. phaseolinain vitro following dual culture method.\r\nIn a Petri plate containing equal amounts of PDA and NA, the antagonistic bacterium was inoculated as two streaks of 5 cm opposite to each other one cm away form the periphery and the test pathogen was inoculated as five mm mycelial disc in the middle. The monoculture of the test pathogen was maintained as the control for comparison. The results were recorded as the zone of inhibition in the dual culture plates when the pathogen in the monoculture was fully grown.\r\nThe formula given by Vincent (1927) was used to obtain the per cent inhibition exhibited by the bacterial biocontrol agent against mycelial growth of test pathogen in the dual culture plates.\r\n \r\nwhere,\r\nI = Per cent reduction in growth of test pathogen.\r\nC = Radial growth (mm) in monocultured check.\r\nT = Radial growth (mm) in dual cultured plates.\r\nIn vitro compatibility studies between bacterial and fungal antagonists\r\nDual culture studies were conducted to test the compatibility between bacterial and fungal antagonists as described by Morton and Stroube (1955).\r\nThe Petri plate containing equal amounts of PDA and NA was inoculated with fungal and bacterial biocontrol agents as 5 mm mycelial disc in the middle and 5 cm streaks at one cm away from the periphery of the plate on either side of the fungal mycelial disc respectively. The Petri plates containing the pathogen was treated as control. The plates were incubated at 25 ± 2°C and observations from the dual cultured plates were recorded when the pathogen in the control plates was fully grown.\r\nThe standard formula by Vincent (1927) was used to obtain the percent inhibition of fungal biocontrol agent by bacterial biocontrol agent.\r\n \r\nwhere,\r\nI = Per cent reduction in growth of test pathogen.\r\nC = Radial growth (mm) in monocultured check.\r\nT = Radial growth (mm) in dual cultured plates.\r\nM. phaseolina mass multiplication. Sterilized sorghum grains were used as substrate for mass multiplication of M. phaseolina. The clean sorghum grains were soaked in solution containing 4 per cent dextrose for overnight. Later the solution was drained and the grains were dried to appropriate moisture levels. The dried sorghum grains were filled up to 2/3 volume of 250 ml conical flasks and autoclaved at 15 p.s.i. for twenty minutes. The sterilized sorghum grains were inoculated with four day old 5 mm mycelial discs of test pathogen and kept for incubation. \r\nTalc based formulations of potential antagonists. The sterilized potato dextrose broth (PDB) was inoculated with three-day old Trichoderma culture and kept agitated by placing inside shaking incubator for seven days to get increased biomass production.\r\nNutrient broth (NB) was inoculated with two loops full of bacterial antagonist and kept in shaking incubator for continuous agitation for three days for increased biomass production.\r\nThe standard procedure was followed to develop talc formulations of both bacterial and fungal biocontrol agents (Vidhyasekaran and Muthamilan, 1995).\r\nEffective Trichoderma isolate formulation in paraffin oil + soybean oil (1:1). Effective Trichoderma sp. isolate was formulated using paraffin oil + soybean oil (1:1) liquid carrier material. For this, dry spores of Trichoderma were harvested from solid substrate (Trichoderma mass multiplied on sorghum grains) after 12 days of incubation using 100 mesh sieve. Two grams of dry spore was aseptically transferred into pre-sterilized 100 ml of liquid carrier containing paraffin oil + soybean oil (1:1). Later the formulation was poured into glass bottles and stored at 4oC in a refrigerator (Sathiyaseelan et al., 2009).\r\nFormulation of effective P. fluorescens isolate in glycerol. Solution containing two per cent glycerol in NB was used as liquid carrier material for formulation of effective isolate of P. fluorescens. The formulation was prepared by mixing 1 ml of effective bacterial antagonist at log phase and kept for incubation for two days. Later the formulation was stored in refrigerator at 4oC (Manikandan et al., 2010).\r\nGlass house studies on management of M. phaseolina using effective isolates of bacterial and fungal antagonists. The experiment was designed to test the performance of chemical and formulation of biocontrol agents in managing dry root of groundnut in pot culture. The table below shows the design of the CRD.\r\nCompletely Randomized Design (CRD) statistical method was followed with groundnut test variety Narayani for finding effectiveness of above treatments in the management of groundnut dry root rot. The observations recorded were, PDI, final plant population, initial plant population, dry weight and fresh weight, shoot length and root length of groundnut plants.\r\n\r\nRESULTS AND DISCUSSION\r\nThe pathogen, M. phaseolina\r\nThe disease samples of groundnut dry root rot were collected from Sangam, Somasila areas of SPSR Nellore Dt. and R.A.R.S Tirupati, Rangampeta areas of Chittoor Dt. of Andhra Pradesh. The isolates collected from Sangam, Somasila, R.A.R.S Turuapti, Ramgampeta are named as SgMp, SmMp, TpMp and RgMp respectively. The different isolates of M. phaseolina were isolated following tissue segment method and single hyphal tip purification technique on PDA (Ghewande et al., 2002).\r\nThe isolates RgMp, SgMp and SmMp produced partially fluffy mycelium whereas isolate TpMp produced highly fluffy mycelium in culture. Morphological studies to characterize M. phaseolina isolates were conducted by observing 10 d old culture grown on PDA medium. Mycelia of for RgMp, TpMp and SgMp appeared white fluffy in the beginning and grey at maturity but the mycelia of SmMp appeared black at maturity. The microscopic examination of fungal mycelia revealed characteristic right angular branching pattern of M. phaseolina. The average microsclerotial size of SmMp was 94.30 µm which was bigger among four isolates followed by RgMp (91.80 µm) and TpMp (85.80 µm). Smaller microsclerotia were observed in isolate SgMp (70.82 µm). The microsclerotia of all isolates were blackish brown in colour. \r\nThe test pathogen exhibiting all the above characteristics was identified as M. phaseolina (Tassi.) Goid. The results were similar with the works of Subramanayam (1971) who morphologically characterized M. phaseolina.\r\n Native rhizosphere isolates of antagonistic Trichoderma spp. Six isolates of Trichoderma spp. were isolated from different soil samples of Chittoor and SPSR Nellore districts. The Trichoderma selective medium was used for initial selective isolation and PDA was used for further purification and storage of the fungal antagonist. The isolates of Chittoor were named as GRT1, GRT2, GRT3 and Nellore as GRT4, GRT5 and GRT6.\r\nUsing ACCU-SCOPE-EX 30 microscope, the Trichoderma isolates were characterized up to species level by considering the characters of conidiophore branching, chlamydospore formation, structure and distribution of phialides, size and shape of conidia. Form the study conducted, two species of Trichoderma were identified i.e., T. viride (GRT2, GRT5) and T. harzianum (GRT1, GRT3, GRT4 and GRT6).\r\nNative rhizosphere isolates of antagonistic P. fluorescens. Five isolates of antagonistic P. fluorescens were isolated from rhizosphere soil samples of groundnut collected from different places in Chittoor (PF1, PF2, PF3) and SPSR Nellore (PF4, PF5) districts. King’s B medium was used for selective isolation of P. fluorescens and PDA was used for further purification and maintenance. The bacterial isolates were confirmed as P. fluorescens as the cells were gram negative and emitted fluorescens under UV light. The results were similar with the findings of Elangovan and Gnanamanickam (1990).\r\nInteraction between Trichoderma spp. and M. phaseolina. Dual culture technique was performed to study interaction between Trichoderma spp. and M. phaseolina in vitro. Two factorial CRD was used to analyze the results as shown in Table 1.\r\nwe observed Trichoderma isolates GRT5 (67.92%), GRT6 (61.25%), GRT1 (59.17%) and GRT4 (60.42%) recorded maximum inhibition percentage when tested against RgMp, TpMp, SmMp and SgMp. Trichoderma isolates, GRT1, GRT2, GRT4 and GRT 5 were found effective in inhibiting the mycelial growth of M. phaseolina while the pathogen isolate SmMp appeared as virulent pathogen by showing minimal inhibition percentage (56.81 %).\r\nKumari et al. (2022) recorded highest mycelial growth inhibition of M. phaseolina, the causal agent of dry root of chickpea by T. harzianum (73.33) which outperformed over other biocontrol agents under the study.\r\nInteraction between P. fluorescens and M. phaseolina. Dual culture technique was performed with five isolates of P. fluorescens and four isolates of M. phaseolina to find the effective isolates of bacterial antagonist in vitro. Two factorial CRD was used for analysis of results as presented in the Table 2.\r\nWe observed that, PF4 isolate of P. fluorescence recorded maximum inhibition percentage against RgMp (37.04%), SgMp (38.52%), SmMp (31.85%) and PF3 isolate against TpMp (39.26%).\r\nThe two isolates of antagonist i.e., PF3 and PF4 were found effective in inhibiting the growth of M. phaseolina with maximum inhibition while the pathogen isolated SmMp was identified as virulent pathogen isolate with minimum inhibition (15.26 %). In a study conducted by Shanmugam et al. (2002), it was found that, Pf 1 isolate of P. fluorescens was significant in reducing the growth of M. phaseolinain vitro.\r\nCompatibility studies between effective isolates of P. fluorescens and Trichoderma sp. We obtained successful combination of antagonistic fungal (GRT4) and bacterial (PF4) isolates with minimum negative interaction (21.48 %) from the dual culture studies in vitro.\r\nMishra et al. (2013) reported that the PBAP-27 isolate of Pseudomonas and PBAT-43 isolate of Trichoderma were found most compatible with least negative interactions in vitro. The same combination was used for developing mixed formulation.\r\nFormulations of isolate GRT4 of T. harzianum and isolate PF4 of P. fluorescens. For solid formulations of bacterial and fungal antagonists talc was used as solid carrier material and paraffin oil + soybean oil (1:1) and glycerol as liquid carrier material. \r\nFor control of chickpea root rot Gaur et al. (2005) used talc formulation of T. harzianum and obtained better results.\r\nManagement of groundnut dry root rot using bioformulations of P. fluorescens (PF4) and T. harzianum (GRT4)\r\nThe mass multiplied test pathogen on sorghum grains was applied as 100 g kg-1 of soil in pots and treatments were imposed in different combinations of biocontrol agents and chemical to test for the best performing treatment. \r\nAt 45 DAS the biometric observations like root length, shoot length, dry weight, fresh weight were recorded along with germination percentage, final plant population, initial plant population and per cent disease incidence (PDI) of dry root rot. \r\nImpact of treatments on biometric parameters of groundnut plant\r\n(a) Root length. It was observed that, treatment T10 showed increased root length (34.44 cm) followed by T9 and T8 (31.97, 29.99 cm respectively). Jayasree et al. (2000) observed similar effects on shoot and root lengths of sesame and black gram with combined application of bacterial and fungal biocontrol agents.\r\n(b) Shoot length. Similar with the root length, the treatment T10 again recorded highest shoot length (22.39) followed by treatments T9, T8 and T2 (22.16, 21.92 and 19.57 cm respectively). As presented in the Table 4, T12, the control treatment recorded 6.04 cm of shoot length which was lowest among all treatments tested. Aiswarya et al. (2022) reported that seed treatment of groundnut seeds with T. viride @ 10 g kg-1 and P. fluorescens @ 10 g kg-1 against collar rot pathogen Aspergillus flavus showed increased seedling lengths of 17.07 cm and 16.89 cm respectively over control (16.04 cm).\r\n(c) Fresh weight and dry weight. Treatment T10 recorded highest fresh weight of 10.72 g and treatment T9, T8 and T11 found next best treatments with 9.42, 8.91 and 7.75 g respectively.\r\nThe dry weight was highest in the pots imposed with treatment T10 followed by T9 and T8 (2.16, 1.86 g respectively). Treatment T12, the control yielded lowest dry weight of 0.76 g. Martínez-Salgado et al. (2021) reported increased growth of groundnut plants (1417.60 g) and low disease incidence (76 %) with the application of T. koningiopsis (T-K11) @1 × 108 conidia mL−1 at 16 days after sowing on seedlings. \r\nGermination percentage. The treatment T10 recorded highest germination percentage of 96.67 per cent and treatments T9, T8, T11 and T2 stood next with germination percentages of 93.33, 90.00, 86.67 and 83.33 per cent respectively as represented in Table 3. The germination percentage was very poor in the control treatment T12 (53.33 %). Mishra et al. (2013) found that higher germination percentage (72.11 %) was recorded in soybean and chickpea plants treated with combined bioformulation of PBAT-43, PBAP-27 isolates of Trichoderma and Pseudomonas respectively.\r\nEffect on groundnut plant population. The treatment T10 recorded highest initial (9.67) and final (9.33) plant population followed by T9, T8, T11 and T2. The control treatment T12 recorded least plant population (1.33).\r\nEffect on dry root rot disease. Lowest dry root rot disease incidence (3.70%) was observed in T10 treatment and T9, T8 treatments were also shown to be promising treatments with minimal disease incidence of 7.41 and 11.20 per cent respectively. The disease incidence was very high (76.67 %) in control treatment. Ramesh and Korikantthimath (2006) observed same effect on groundnut dry root incidence with combined use of P. fluorescens and T. viride.\r\n','M. Mahendra, M. Reddi Kumar, C.P.D. Rajan and P. Sumathi (2022). Biological Management of Dry Root Rot of Groundnut using Trichoderma harzianum and Pseudomonas fluorescens under Glasshouse conditions. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 14(3): 409-416.'),(5287,'136','Exploration on Severity and Morphological Variations in Root Rot causing Macrophomina phaseolina (Tassi.) Goid and Sclerotium rolfsii (Sacc.)in Peanut\r\n(Arachis hypogaea L.)\r\n','E. Priyadharshini, M. Muthamilan, L. Rajendran, R. Anandham and S. Nakkeeran','68 Exploration on Severity and Morphological Variations in Root Rot causing Macrophomina phaseolina (Tassi.) Goid and Sclerotium rolfsii (Sacc.)in Peanut M. Muthamilan.pdf','',1,'Peanut (Arachis hypogaea L.) is a major oilseed crop grown in many countries around the world as it provides good edible oil and protein. It is both leguminous and oilseed crop, but it’s production has been reduced over years due to the attack of pest and pathogen at field level. Among many pathogens, Macrophomina phaseolina (Tassi.) Goid (dry root rot) and Sclerotium rolfsii Sacc. (stem rot) are the destructive soil borne pathogens which cause severe infection and capable of producing resting structures, microsclerotium and sclerotium respectively. In this regard, survey has been carried out in various districts of Tamil Nadu which recorded an incidence ranging from 18.60 per cent to 64.00 per cent and 20.30 to 66.20 per cent respectively. In addition, different isolates of M. phaseolina and S. rolfsii were isolated from the diseased samples collected from different districts of Tamil Nadu. The isolates of the rot pathogens isolated were characterized both morphologically and molecularly. The size of the sclerotium produced by M. phaseolina and S. rolfsii were ranging from 29.416 to 84.896 µm and 480.95 to 778.42 µm. Molecular characterization of the pathogens resulted that the DNA of all the isolates of M. phaseolina amplified at an amplicon size of app. 550 - 560 bp and isolates of S. rolfsii were amplified at an amplicon size of app. 650 – 700 bp. Thus, in this study the incidence of the pathogens were recorded and different isolates of M. phaseolina and S. rolfsii were characterized.','Macrophomina phaseolina, Sclerotium rolfsii, incidence, isolation and morpho – molecular characterization','Hence, these findings revealed the diversity of colony and morphological traits among the different isolates of M. phaseolina and S. rolfsii collected from different districts of Tamil Nadu.','INTRODUCTION\r\nPeanut (Arachis hypogaea L.) is one of the most important oilseed and legume crop, which is highly used for edible purposes either as nuts or as oil extracted from nuts. It comes under the family Leguminaceae and originated from South Africa. Groundnut is of higher economic importance as it contributes to the Indian economy by exportation and exportation of groundnut is more than the domestic consumption. Although India is first in acreage, the yield/ ha is very low compared to china. The production of groundnut is declining over years and the main reason is considered as the yield loss caused by the economically important pathogens, Macrophomina phaseolina and Sclerotium rolfsii which infect the peanut crop and cause dry root rot and stem rot diseases respectively. These diseases are most destructive as it is soil borne and systemic, it infects the plants and cause complete destruction. Both the pathogens are soil borne and have a wide range of host infecting more than 500 crop species (Doley et al., 2012). These pathogens are considered to be detrimental due to the production of the fungal propagules, microsclerotium by M. phaseolina and sclerotium by S. rolfsii which survive in the soil for many years and it is difficult to destroy (Shifa et al., 2015). Also, the somatic structures of the pathogens are distributed in the soil randomly, it is very challenging to control by any means (Pardeep et al., 2015). The pathogens infect all the stages of peanut crop and their control has been difficult since. The incidence of dry root has been recorded as 33.33 per cent decayed seeds and post emergence mortality of 23.80 per cent (Moradiaand Khandar, 2011). And incidence of stem rot was recorded as 7.88 to 32.02% in various villages of Cuddalore district of Tamil Nadu (Sivakumar et al., 2016). Hence, the present study was aimed on survey of incidence of dry root rot and stem rot of peanut, isolation and characterization of M. phaseolina and S. rolfsii based on morphological and molecular characterization.\r\n\r\nMATERIALS AND METHODS\r\nSurvey on the occurrence of root rot. The incidence of the root rot diseases were surveyed by roving method of survey (Archana et al., 2020) in major peanut growing districtsof Tamil Nadu viz., Coimbatore, Dharmapuri, Krishnagiri, Salem and Cuddaloreat different stages of the crop. \r\nIsolation of root rot pathogens. The symptomatic plants were collected for isolation from various districts of Tamil Nadu in which the incidence was surveyed. The symptoms were yellowing and wilting of plants, bark shredding in dry root rot infected plants and white mycelial propagules were grown on the infected parts in stem rot infected plants. Presence of sclerotia were observed on the infected parts of the plants and were visible to the naked eye.\r\nThe pathogens were isolated by tissue segment method (Rangaswami, 1972). The infected roots were cut into small pieces of 0.2 to 0.5 cm in size. The root bits were washed in distilled water twice to remove the soil and debris and these bits were surface sterilized using 1% sodium hypochlorite once and then washed with sterile distilled water twice. Excessive moisture present on the root bits were dried by placing them on sterile tissue paper. After drying, root bits were placed in fresh sterilized PDA (Potato Dextrose Agar) medium which was poured half plate for isolation. Also, brown to black, rounded sclerotium present on the roots that were apparent to the naked eye were collected and placed on fresh sterilized potato dextrose agar medium (Shim et al., 1998).\r\nMorphological characterization. The pure cultures of the rot pathogens were observed in the naked eye for their colony characters. The colour and nature of the colony growth (Fluffy/Sparse/Compact) were observed in naked eye.\r\nThe mycelial characters (hyaline/coloured, septate/coenocytic) and the sclerotial characters (size and shape of sclerotium) were observed under phase contrast microscope (LEICA DM30000, DST FIST lab, TNAU, Coimbatore) (Emayavarman et al., 2019).\r\nMolecular characterization. The DNA of the isolates of M. phaseolina and S. rolfsii were extracted separately from 14 days old PD broth inoculated with pathogens. DNA extraction was done by CTAB method (Almeida et al., 2003). The extracted DNA was amplified using the universal primers, ITS 1 and 4 with a reaction mixture, 5 µl of Master mix, 2µl of double sterile distilled water, 1µl of forward primer, 1µl of reverse primer. The reaction mixtures were prepared for all the isolates of M. phaseolina and S. rolfsii and were subjected to PCR in Thermocycler (Eppendorf Master Cycler Nexus gradient). The conditions for PCR fixed was, initial denaturation at 95°C for 1 min, denaturation at 95°C for 1 min (35 cycles), annealing at 58°C for 1 min, extension at 72°C for 1 min and final extension at 72°C for 10 mins. After the cycles were completed, the PCR product was checked for amplification in agarose gel electrophoresis by loading them in 1.2 % agarose gel amended with 2 µl of Ethidium Bromide. Then the gel was visualized under UV transilluminator and images were documented in gel documentation unit (BIO RAD, Gel DocTM EZ Imager, Bio-Rad Laboratories Inc.). To confirm the amplicon size at which the product were amplified, Molecular marker (DNA ladder, 100 bp) was used (Emayavarman et al., 2019).\r\nStatistical analysis. Design of experiment used was CRD and AGRES ANOVA package version 7.01 from Department of physical sciences, TNAU, India was used to analyse the statistical data (Senthilkumar et al., 2009) and the percent values are arcsine transformed. ANOVA was used to analyse the data at significant level 0.05 and means were compared using Duncan’s Multiple Range Test (DMRT).\r\nRESULTS AND DISCUSSION\r\nSurvey on the incidence of root rot. The incidence of dry root rot was recorded from 18.60 per cent to 64.00 per cent and stem rot was recorded from 20.30 per cent to 66.20 per cent in various districts of Tamil Nadu. The highest incidence of dry root rot was recorded as 64 per cent in Vridhachalam, Cuddalore district and lowest incidence was 18.6 per cent in Pulikarai, Dharmapuri (Table 1). Moradiaand Khandar (2011) surveyed the incidence of dry root rot in Saurashtra region of Gujarat and reported 33.33 per cent of seed decay and post emergence mortality of 23.80 per cent in peanut crop due to dry root rot. The dry root rot incidence in the major peanut growing district in Tamil Nadu, Cuddalore, the incidence was recorded ranging from 21.73 per cent to 31.68 per cent (Raja Mohan et al., 2012). \r\nSimilarly, Telugupalayam, Coimbatore district, recorded highest stem rot incidence of 66.2 per cent and lowest incidence of 20.3 per cent was recorded in Attur village of Salem district. Archana et al. (2020) stated that the incidence of wet root rot in Coimbatore, Tamil Nadu was recorded as 86.6 per cent during roving survey. The yield loss by stem rot was normally upto 25 per cent but in conducive conditions the yield loss maybe upto 80-90 per cent (Deepthi & Reddy 2013). Sivakumar et al. (2016) recorded stem rot incidence from 7.88 to 32.02 per cent in various villages of Cuddalore district of Tamil Nadu. A roving survey was conducted in major peanut growing areas in Kharif 2014, in which the incidence of stem rot was recorded as 10.11 to 59.33 per cent (Haveri, 2017). \r\nIsolation of rot pathogens. Dry root rot and stem rot infected specimens were collected and the pathogens were isolated separately under aseptic condition. The isolates were named as TNAU MP1, DPI MP2, KRI MP3, SLM MP4 and CUD MP5 for M. phaseolina isolates and TNAU SR1, DPI SR2, KRI SR3, SLM SR4 and CUD SR5 for S. rolfsii isolates. The isolates of M. phaseolina and S. rolfsii were periodically subcultured in fresh sterilized PDA plates for the maintenance of their axenic cultures. Similar isolation technique was used by Raja Mohan et al. (2012) for the isolation of M. phaseolina. The stem rot pathogen, Sclerotium was isolated by tissue segmentation method from the symptomatic stem parts by Archana et al. (2020).\r\nColony and Morphological characteristics of M. phaseolina. The colonies of isolates of M. phaseolina were compact to fluffy in nature, the colour of the isolates varied from brown to black to olivaceous grey (Fig. 1). Similar observations made by Sarr et al. (2014) reported that the colony of M. phaseolina was fluffy, initially buff later turned to pale olivaceous grey and sclerotium were numerously produced. Dark brown to greyish coloured colonies were produced by M. phaseolina isolates on PDA medium (Pandey et al., 2020).\r\nThe mycelium of all the isolates were observed under phase contrast microscope. The colour of the mycelium varies from light brown to dark brown and septations were present in all the isolates (Fig. 2). Emayavarman et al. (2019) reported the black coloured mycelium was produced by M. phaseolina and under microscope the mycelium was coloured and septate. The hyphae of M. phaseolina were found to be hyaline, with thin walls and the colour ranges from light brown to dark brown with more septa reported by Lakhran et al. (2018). \r\nThe microsclerotium were present in abundant numbers in culture plates of M. phaseolina and the colour of microsclerotium varies from dark brown to black and oval, spherical and irregular shapes of microsclerotium were also observed in different isolates (Fig. 3). Similarly, Marquez et al. (2021) described that themicrosclerotia were spherical, oval, or oblong masses of hardened fungal mycelium that are initially light brown in colour later turns to dark brown to black. Similarly, Sarr et al. (2014) reported that black coloured sclerotia were produced by M. phaseolina.\r\nTNAU MP1 isolate produced larger sized microsclerotium of an average size of 84.896 µm and the growth of TNAU MP1 was also rapid at a growth rate of 36.68 mm/day compared to other isolates (Table 2). Raja Mohan et al., (2012) recorded that size of microsclerotium produced by M. phaseolina MP5 was 85.70 µm. The size of the microsclerotium for 64 isolates of M. phaseolina was recorded as 72.8 to 127.8µm by Manici et al. (1992). Lakharan et al. (2018) have reported that the size of microsclerotium varied from 82.5 to 105 µm.\r\nColony and Morphological characteristics of S. rolfsii. The colonies of S. rolfsii were sparse to fluffy in nature and spreading radially in vein like manner. The mycelium were initially resembled silk white threads later turned to cotton white colour with sparse to fluffy growth (Fig. 4). Mahadevakumar et al. (2018) reported that the colonies of S. rolfsii were white in colour with dense, fluffy growth. Sivakumar et al. (2016) investigated the colony characters of S. rolfsii and reported that the colonies were initially silk white which later changed to dull white colour and profuse mycelium which grow radially to give fan like appearance.\r\nThe mycelium of different isolates were hyaline and highly septate when observed under phase contrast microscope (Fig. 5). The sclerotium of all the isolates were observed in naked eye and were dark brown, reddish brown, golden brown and black colours (Fig. 6). The size of the sclerotium for different isolates was varied from 480.95 µm to 778.42 µm. The isolate TNAU SR1 was found to produce sclerotium on 5 days after inoculation (DAI). The isolates DPI SR2, SLM SR4 and CUD SR5 produced sclerotium on 7 DAI and KRI SR3 isolate produced sclerotium on 8 DAI. The number of sclerotium produced by different isolates also varies from 77.68 to 434.22 on 9 DAI in which TNAU SR1 isolate produced the higher number of sclerotium and the mycelial growth is also rapid at a growth rate of 33.70 mm/day (Table 3). Pandi et al. (2017) reported that light brown, dark brown and reddish brown coloured sclerotia were produced by 8 isolates of S. rolfsii and the size of the sclerotium varied from 1002 to 1224 µm. The number of sclerotium produced by eight isolates ranged from 274 to 360/plate and the isolates grown with a growth rate of 21.62 to 31.45 mm/day. Sarma et al. (2002), reported that the colonies produced by 18 isolates of S. rolfsii were fluffy, 8 isolates were compact with the growth rate of 23-31 mm/day and the no. of sclerotium produced were 80 to 500 sclerotia/plate. The average diameter of the sclerotium was recorded as 1 – 1.2 mm and were dark to reddish brown in colour.\r\nMolecular characterization. The DNA of all the isolates of M. phaseolina and S. rolfsii were extracted separately and they were subjected to PCR and agarose gel electrophoresis was also performed for each isolate to find the amplicon size and were visualized under UV illuminator. All the M. phaseolina isolates were amplified and the amplicon were visible at app. 550 – 560 bpand for all the S. rolfsii isolates the amplicon were visible at app. 650 – 700 bp. The positive control with fungal DNA shown amplicon and in the negative control with bacterial DNA amplicon was not obtained. This confirms that the pathogens were fungi. The DNA of four isolates of M. phaseolina were extracted and 560 bp amplicon size were obtained in agarose gel electrophoresis in ITS 1&4 primers (Emayavarman et al., 2019). Similarly, Chakraborty et al. (2011) also obtained an amplicon size of app. 550 bp for the M. phaseolina isolates in ITS 1&4 primers. In case of S. rolfsii, Jebaraj et al. (2017) observed the amplicon size of 650 – 700 bp in ITS 1&4 universal primers. Similar results were also reported by Durgaprasad et al. (2008). Yu et al. (2019) extracted DNA of S. rolfsii on PCR and agarose gel electrophoresis reported that it was amplified at an amplicon size of 683bp in ITS 1&4 universal primers.\r\n','E. Priyadharshini, M. Muthamilan, L. Rajendran, R. Anandham and S. Nakkeeran (2022). Exploration on Severity and Morphological Variations in Root Rot causing Macrophomina phaseolina (Tassi.) Goid and Sclerotium rolfsii (Sacc.)in Peanut (Arachis hypogaea L.) . Biological Forum – An International Journal, 14(3): 417-423.'),(5288,'125','Improving Barley Productivity with Sustainable use of Agrochemicals and Managed Irrigation in Climate Change Scenario','Kavita, Amarjeet Nibhoria and Preetam Kumar','272 Improving Barley Productivity with Sustainable use of Agrochemicals and Managed Irrigation in Climate Change Scenario Kavita.pdf','',4,'The ongoing climate change has severely altered the pattern of rainfall distribution spatially as well as temporally. The effect of climate change can be seen through the increased severity of torrential rains and the long interval between the two rains. In semi-arid and arid areas, where most of the agriculture is rainfall based with limited irrigation sources, long dry spells between the rains severely hampers the crop production. Late vegetative and reproductive water stress combined with high temperature stress, preferably in rabi crops (Wheat, Barley etc.) is highly disadvantageous for anthesis, fertilization, grain filling and grain development. Water availability at grain filling stage is quite crucial to avoid yield loss. Irrigation management and use of natural as well as synthetic agrochemicals in a sustainable manner is necessary. Irrigation timing as well as number should be planned in order to attain higher water use efficiency i.e., more crop produced per drop of water. Natural agrochemicals such as herbal hydrogel “Tragacanth katira” holds water strongly and make it available to the crop slowly under high water tension in low soil moisture conditions. Plant bioregulators are well known to improve the physiology of the plant which increases stress tolerance. Salicylic acid and potassium nitrate are the plant bioregulators which improves the physiology of the plant giving stress endurance and reduces the extent of yield loss along with improvement in water use efficiency as well as quality of grains.','Agrochemicals, water use efficiency, productivity, hydrogel, salicylic acid','Water stress at critical stages certainly reduces the productivity and profitability of barley by adversely affecting the growth and physiology. But the extent of loss can be significantly reduced by the use of herbal hydrogel before sowing to mitigate early vegetative stress and foliar sprays of agrochemicals at late vegetative or reproductive stage. Being natural products, salicylic acid and hydrogel are not harmful for the environment, however KNO3 is a chemical fertilizer and osmo-protectant, but the quantity used for foliar spray is quite low, thus helping in sustainable management of water stress.','INTRODUCTION\r\nBarley (Hordeum vulgare L.), an annual tall grass is fourth major cereal grain crop of the world. It is immensely potent from nutritional and medicinal point of view as barley grains contain 12.5 percent moisture, 11.5 percent albuminoids, 74 percent carbohydrates, 1.3 percent, fat, 3.9 percent crude fibre and 1.5 percent ash (Anderson et al., 1990; Dudi et al., 2019); and contain water soluble fibres (β glucans). About 70 percent of barley produced all over the world is used for feed, 21 percent in malting and processing industry and less than 6 percent is consumed for food purpose (Tricase et al., 2018). In India particularly, it is grown in the semi arid areas with less irrigation or completely rainfed. In respective of stress tolerance, barley is the hardiest crop and requires very less inputs and water for its high production as compared to wheat. Water shortage and drought stress are principal environmental factors reducing the productivity of crops in many arid and semi-arid areas among other abiotic stresses (Zargar et al., 2018) influenced by climate changes (Wassmann et al., 2009). Limitation and variation in soil moisture significantly influences yield and yield attributes of various barley genotypes (El- Shawy et al., 2017; Abdelaal et al., 2020). Under slight stress conditions either of heat or drought, plants tend to reduce transpiration by closing stomatal apertures due to reduction in relative leaf water content (Ghotbi-Ravandi et al., 2014), leading to less water loss without reducing the photosynthesis (Zhao et al., 2020). This results in increased biomass production per unit of water consumed enhancing the water use efficiency. Under severe stress, photosynthesis is adversely affected (Hafez and Kobata, 2012) reducing crop yield.\r\nIncreased grain yield with relatively constant water use had increased water use efficiency over the time (Basso and Ritchie 2018) due to the adoption of navel varieties and hybrids by farmers. But increased water use efficiency of crops can be achieved only by two options: either by selection of new varieties and hybrids highly tolerant to stress conditions or by management practices (Hatfield and Dold 2019). Climate-Smart agrochemicals having economic viability and technical feasibility addresses the issues of food security, climate change, agricultural sustainability and productivity altogether. Hydrogels (hydrophilic cross-linked polymers) have become popular in recent years due to high water absorbing and holding property they possess. They can absorb more than 400 times its weight of water by binding the water molecules with hydrogen bonding and when surrounding dries out, release upto 95 percent of stored water. Synthetic hydrogels are expensive enough to be afforded by poor farmers but natural hydrogels like Tragacanth katira (gond-katira) gel are cheap and technically feasible. Application of hydrogels significantly reduces the required irrigation frequency in loamy and clay soils for a crop as available water content (AWC) is almost doubled (1.8-2.2 times) in the treatment where hydrogel is applied in comparison to the control (Abedi-Koupai et al., 2008). \r\nSalicylic acid (SA, 2-hydroxybenzoic acid) is a phenolic phytohormone having important role in stomatal conductance and photosynthetic process (Khan et al., 2003; Arfan et al., 2007) and signaling molecule for stress (Karlidag et al., 2009). Exogenous application of SA decreases oxidative stress and enhances stress tolerance (Gunes et al., 2007) by improving enzymatic (catalase, peroxidase etc.) and non-enzymatic antioxidant activity such as proline production (Mutlu et al., 2016). Potassium increases translocation of dry matter to grains (Kajla et al., 2015), essential for protein synthesis, activation of about 45 enzymes in plant cell and is indicative element for drought stress (Demidchik et al., 2014). Conventional practice followed by farmers generally focuses on use of nitrogenous fertilizers only which reduces crop yield as well as exhausts the soil fertility and in mid to late stages of crop growth, nutrients are not provided which also results in the yield decline. Application of potassium as foliar spray (as they easily get absorbed in the plant system) under stress conditions not only gave endurance to plants to withstand the stress but also enhances yield and water use efficiency (Mesbah, 2009). Two foliar applications of KNO3 at 0.5% (one at booting and other at anthesis stage) significantly increased grain yield of wheat grown under late sown conditions in comparison to when no foliar spray is done or water spray is done at heading and anthesis stage (Chaurasiya et al., 2018). \r\nHaryana and Punjab are less vulnerable to climate change for barley production (vulnerability index of 0.35 and 0.09, respectively) compared to states of central India (0.80-0.85). It suggests higher scope of increasing barley production herein present climate change scenario, when production from the major contributing states is supposed to decline (Sendhil et al., 2017). In this review an attempt is made to study the impact of different irrigation levels and agrochemicals on barley growth and productivity.\r\nEffect of irrigation levels and agrochemicals on Growth and Physiology of Barley. In an experiment conducted on barley at Dinajpur, Bangladesh with four irrigation levels (no irrigation, one at tillering, two at tillering and booting, three at tillering, booting and grain filling stage) having 30 mm water for each. Maximum dry matter and plant height 40 DAS onwards was recorded with three irrigations which was at par with two irrigations (Bahadur et al., 2013). Shirazi et al. (2014) in his study on wheat in Bangladesh reported that 300 mm irrigation (100 mm each at 30, 45 and 60 DAS) resulted in higher plant height compared to no irrigation, one and two irrigation. However, effect of one (at 30 DAS) and two irrigation (at 30 and 45 DAS) in was at par and higher than that of non-irrigated plants. Devi et al. (2017) reported that maximum significant increase in plant height (cm) of wheat plants was recorded with foliar spray of potassium nitrate at 3 percent but it was at par with 1.5, 2 and 2.5 percent. Leaf area index was significantly improved with increasing levels of irrigation at 30, 60 and 90 DAS in barley (Hingonia et al., 2018). Irrigation at 1.00 IW/CPE ratio reduced days to 50 percent flowering by 3 to 5 days compared to irrigation at either 0.75 or 0.50 IW/CPE ratio in groundnut grown at at Tindivanam, Tamilnadu (Hussainy and Vaidyanathan 2020). Similar results were also reported by Hussen et al. (2019) in mung bean and Ullah et al. (2002) in chickpea. Rehman and Khalil (2018) reported similar kind of findings of delaying physiological maturity with salicylic acid application in stress conditions. \r\nKumar et al. (2019) conducted a two-year study in Durgapur to study effect of different irrigation levels and hydrogel in wheat crop variety HD 2967. Two hydrogels, herbal hydrogel (Tragacanth i.e., gond-katira) at 400 ml/100 kg seed and Pusa hydrogel at 2.5 kg ha-1 were used for seed treatment and soil application respectively and control (no treatment) for comparison. Effect of herbal hydrogel was found at par with control (no seed treatment) for plant height, crop growth rate and dry matter accumulation in early stage of crop but near maturity, significant higher growth parameters were observed over control. Wairagade et al. (2020) also reported similar findings. Rathore et al. (2020) reported that RWC content was increased with the soil application of hydrogel compared to control in Indian mustard at 0.8, 0.6, 0.4 IW/CPE irrigations and in rainfed condition.\r\n Rao et al. (2016) reported that foliar spray of 1 percent KNO3 at flowering and pod initiation stage improves the RWC and chlorophyll content in both irrigated and unirrigated conditions in mung bean compared to water sprayed and control (no foliar application). Chaurasiya et al. (2018) reported that foliar spray of KNO3 at 1, 1 and 0.5 percent in wheat at booting, anthesis and both (booting and anthesis) resulted into significant 5.63, 12.71 and 18.91 percent increase in total plant dry matter (g m-2) over control, respectively. Bangar et al. (2019) conducted a study at College of Agriculture, Latur in soyabean to test the effect of foliar spray of agrochemicals. Total dry matter per plant (g) at harvest was increased from 17.08 (control) to 22.81 and 23.14 under one (30 DAS) and two (30 and 45 DAS) foliar application of KNO3. \r\nHellal et al. (2020) from National Research Centre, Egypt observed that plant height of barley var. Giza 125 was significantly decreased under water stress compared to control. Application of foliar spray of potassium citrate, potassium nitrate and potassium silicate (each at 2%) at 40 and 60 DAS enhanced the plant height, RWC and chlorophyll under conditions of drought stress.Fayez and Bazaid (2013) reported that chlorophyll a and b in leaves of barley plants were decreased (when soil water content was reduced to 50%) compared to control and foliar application of KNO3 at 10 mM at 50 percent SWC enhanced chl a and b. Arnold and Fletcher (1986) reported that potassium stimulates chlorophyll, grana and thylakoid synthesis in plants. Chlorophyll synthesis persists for a long time when stimulated by potassium and it requires a period of light for the two processes: cotyledon expansion and chlorophyll synthesis.\r\nEl-nasharty et al. (2019) carried out a research on wheat at Alexandria University, Egypt to check the alleviation effect of SA in mitigating stress and concluded that spray of SA at 400 ppm at tillering and booting initiation stage increased the plant height and dry matter per plant by 11 and 35.40 percent respectively over water spray. Similar findings for effect of SA were reported by Torun et al. (2020) and Torun et al. (2022) in barley for fresh and dry matter of plant. Anosheh et al. (2012) conducted field experiment on wheat and concluded that drought stress reduced chlorophyll a and b content by 55.65 and 73.34 per cent, while, foliar spray of SA @ 0.7 mM at double ridge stage increased chlorophyll a and b by 29.49 and 25.69 per cent. Similar results were also observed in seedlings of Vigna radiata (Asha et al., 2015). Moisture stress increases concentration of chlorophillase, peroxidase enzymes (Sepehri and Golparvar 2011) and reactive oxygen species (O2- and H2O2 increases) leads to lipid peroxidation which in turn reduces the chlorophyll content. Similar results of decreased chlorophyll content under withholding of irrigation were also reported by Mohseni Mohammadjanlou et al. (2021) and Seyed Sharifi (2020). Seed priming and SA foliar spray @ 10 mM was also observed effective in improving chlorophyll content by 18 and 24 percent under stressed conditions in wheat crop (Ilyas et al., 2017). Similar findings were reported by Ghani et al. (2021) in Brassica napus with application of 0.13 mM SA. \r\nAbdelaal et al. (2020) reported that foliar spray of SA @ 0.5 mM at 21 DAS led to increased relative leaf water content by 20 to 30 per cent in water stressed plants of barley. Similar results were reported by Azmat et al., 2020 in wheat crop with 1 mM foliar spray. Relative leaf water content- an important index for water status in plants is closely related to the cell volume and it reflects the balance between water supply to the leaf and transpiration rate (Lugojan and Ciulca 2011). Abd El-Mageed et al. (2016); Nassef (2017) have also reported improved relative leaf water content in ample moisture conditions compared to stressed condition. SA helps in ion uptake regulation and integrity of membrane (Gunes et al., 2007) and regulation of stomatal closure resulting in higher turgor in leaves.\r\nEffect of irrigation levels and agrochemicals on Yield and yield attributes. Sharma and Verma (2010) undertook a study at Karnal in barley to evaluate the effect of irrigation. Irrigation levels used were one at 30 DAS, two at 30 and 60 DAS and three at 30, 60 and 90 DAS. Highest grain yield was recorded with three irrigation followed by two compared to one irrigation, however, no. of grains per spike and thousand grain weight were recorded maximum with two irrigations. Yield and yield attributes of barley were enhanced significantly when one or two irrigations were given compared to no irrigation (Hingonia et al. 2016). Grain, biological and protein yield of barley was found significantly maximum with irrigation at every 10 days after booting stage (7 irrigations total) followed by irrigation at every 15 (6 irrigations), 20 (5 irrigations) and 25 days (4 irrigations). Lowest yield was observed when no irrigation was given at all after booting stage. Only three irrigations were given before booting stage (Shrief and El-Mohsen, 2014). Safdari et al. (2018) conducted a study at Medicinal Plant Research Center of Shahed University, Iran and reported that yield and yield traits of barley showed a significant decrease when irrigation was given at maximum allowable depletion (MAD) of 90 percent of available soil moisture and highest values were observed when MAD equals to 30 percent of available soil moisture. Kumar et al. (2019) conducted a study at Kanpur, U.P. and observed that grain and straw yield of barley were increased with two irrigations (tillering and flag leaf stage) over one and no irrigation. However, maximum significant harvest index was achieved with no irrigation which was decreased by 4 to 6 per cent with two and one irrigation.\r\nFoliar spray of SA improved grain yield and its attributes in wheat under conditions of stress (Yavas and Unay 2016; Kareem et al., 2019). Foliar spray of SA @ 0.2 mM L-1 at 45 and 60 DAS increased grain yield of barley by 15 per cent (Hafez and Seleiman, 2017). Abdelaal et al. (2020) reported that drought stress in barley decreased spike length and no. of grains per spike compared to control and foliar spray of 0.5 mM SA increased spike length and no. of grains per spike. However, significant difference was not observed in no. of grains per spike. \r\n Suryavanshi and Buttar (2016) conducted a field experiment at Ludhiana to evaluate the efficacy of various osmoprotectants in mitigating terminal heat stress effects in wheat in North-west India. Treatments used were control (no spray), water spray, Thiourea at 20, 40 and 60 mM, KNO3 at 1, 2 and 3 percent, SNP at 400, 800 and 1200 µg/ml. Foliar spray of 2 percent KNO3 showed significantly higher response in grain, straw and biological yield than water spray and control. Chaurasiya et al. (2018) reported that 0.5 percent KNO3 at booting and anthesis showed an increment of 10.99 percent and KNO3 at 1 percent at anthesis showed 9.45 percent increment in grain yield of wheat compared to control. Total number of grains per spike and test weight were recorded significantly highest in KNO3 sprayed at 0.5 percent. This treatment was found at par with 1 percent KNO3 at anthesis stage. \r\nHellal et al. (2020) observed that yield, yield attributes and harvest index of Giza 125 variety of barley were decreased under conditions of water stress compared to control (no stress). Maximum significant increment in yield and yield attributes was observed with potassium citrate followed by potassium nitrate (2% twice at 40 and 60 DAS) and potassium silicate compared to drought stressed control (no foliar treatment). Potassium, the most abundant cation in the phloem, along with amino-N compounds and sucrose affects the rate of translocation of photo-assimilates via phloem (Lalonde et al., 2003). Concentration of potassium within the cell sap is positively correlated to external supply as reported by Mengel and Haeder (1977). The gradient established by K+ concentration, the so called “potassium battery” enables a plant to overcome the local shortage of ATP and; also maintains the efficiency in long distance transport system as reported by Dreyer et al. (2017). Enhanced translocation of photosynthates from source to sink increased yield attributes.\r\nLather et al. (2015) reported that yield and yield attributes of wheat was increased when seed priming was done with herbal Tragacanth katira gel at 100 g kg-1 seed compared to untreated seed when first irrigation was delayed by 35 DAS and 45 DAS respectively. Delayed first irrigation to 35 DAS significantly reduced grain yield and harvest index by 9.83 and 7.98 per cent which was increased by 8.04 and 6.27 per cent with seed coating of herbal hydrogel in late sown wheat. Kumar et al. (2019) reported that effective tillers and spike length were highest with Pusa hydrogel application compared with herbal hydrogel and control. But Pusa hydrogel and herbal hydrogel were found statistically at par for number of grains per spike and test weight, but higher over control. Herbal hydrogel statistically improved grain, straw and biological yield compared to control. However, maximum yields were recorded with Pusa hydrogel. Kumar and Singh (2020) conducted a study at CCSHAU, Hisar for two years to investigate the hydrogel effect on yield and profitability in wheat. Results showed that Pusa hydrogel at 2.5 kg ha-1 and herbal hydrogel application had no significant effect on yield and yield attributes compared with control. \r\nEffect of irrigation levels and agrochemicals on Quality parameters and water use efficiency. Protein content (%) in grains of barley at Libya was enhanced and water use efficiency was decreased significantly when irrigation interval was increased from every 10 days after booting stage to 15, 20, 25 or no irrigation. Effect of irrigation at every 10 days or 15 days after booting was found at par. Before booting, three irrigations were given (Shrief and El-Mohsen 2014). Hingonia et al. (2016) reported that total protein content of grains of barley was significantly reduced by 1.9 to 7.5 per cent when two and one irrigation were replaced with no irrigation. Safdari et al., 2018 also observed that protein content in wheat was reduced with increment in severity of moisture stress. Kumar et al. (2019) reported that highest protein content (8.28%) and N content (1.31%) in barley grain was achieved under two irrigation (tillering + flag leaf stage) followed by one irrigation at tillering stage (8.19, 1.30) and; one irrigation at flag leaf stage (7.41, 1.18) compared to non-irrigated (6.93, 1.11) barley grains respectively. \r\nKarimian et al. (2015) reported that spray of 1- or 2-mM SA in groundnut didn’t show any significant increment in protein content of kernel over control in normal conditions but 3 mM SA spray showed significant response, while, under moderate drought stress, both 2 and 3 mM SA spray significantly increased protein content. In case of intense stress, even 1 mM SA spray showed significant increase. Nazar et al. (2015) conducted a pot culture experiment on mustard cultivar Pusa Jai Kisan and reported that drought stress (50% field capacity) reduced water use efficiency and 0.5 mM application of SA restricts the reduction. \r\nAbrol et al. (2020) reported that foliar spray of KNO3 at 0.5 percent significantly improved rain water use efficiency of wheat crop over water spray and control. Rain water use efficiency with water spray was recorded higher over control and maximum with 0.5% KNO3 + 0.5% urea spray. \r\nWater use efficiency in barley was decreased with stress and foliar applications of SA improved water use efficiency over control (Hellal et al., 2020). Photosynthetic WUE was increased from 2.48 (mol-1 µmol CO2) under control to 2.70 under drought stress in wheat with foliar application of SA at 0.5 mM (Khalvandi et al., 2021). Application of herbal hydrogel reduced the irrigation frequency and hereby, increasing water use efficiency in wheat and DSR rice (Lather et al., 2015; Lather, 2019). Application of hydrogel at 5 kg ha 1 with 200 ppm SA at flowering and siliqua formation stage resulted in maximum oil content and yield, protein content and water use efficiency of Indian mustard compared to control and other treatments in restricted irrigated conditions (Meena et al., 2020). Rathore et al. (2020) observed that water productivity and soil moisture content in Indian mustard was increased with the soil application of hydrogel in irrigated as well as rainfed conditions.\r\nEffect of irrigation levels and agrochemicals on Economics \r\nBarick et al. (2020) conducted a study on rapeseed and reported that highest cost of cultivation, net return and B:C ratio was observed with irrigation at IW/CPE of 1.0. Net return was observed negative for fully rainfed crop. Irrigation at 0.6 and 0.8 IW/CPE showed same cost of cultivation, but gross return, net return and B:C was higher with irrigation at 0.8 IW/CPE. Devi et al. (2017) reported that treatment having foliar application of KNO3 at 2 percent showed maximum B: C ratio followed by KNO3 at 1.5, 2.5, 1, 3 and 0.5 percent compared over control in wheat. \r\nPusa hydrogel at 2.5 kg ha-1 recorded higher cost of cultivation, gross and net returns in wheat compared to herbal hydrogel Tragacanth at 400 ml/100kg seed and control (no treatment). However, higher B:C was recorded with herbal hydrogel compared to Pusa hydrogel and control. An additional net return of Rs. 3514 ha-1 and Rs. 5689 ha-1 was achieved with seed treatment with Tragacanth katira gel and soil application of Pusa hydrogel (2.5 kg ha-1) over control (no treatment or application) in wheat crop (Kumar et al., 2019). Lather, 2019 reported that novel herbal hydrogel technology significantly reduces cost of cultivation and use of fertilizers in DSR rice. \r\n','Kavita, Amarjeet Nibhoria and Preetam Kumar (2022). Improving Barley Productivity with Sustainable use of Agrochemicals and Managed Irrigation in Climate Change Scenario. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 14(2): 1580-1586.'),(5289,'136','Plants Fatty Acid Esterases: A review','Nisha, L.K. Chugh, Priya*, Satender Kumar and Anshu','69 Plants Fatty Acid Esterases A review Priya.pdf','',1,'There are several lipolytic enzymes in nature, and they have been identified from microbial and plant sources as well as from the tissues of mammals. In plants, they are mainly located in energy reserve tissues like seeds. Poor shelf life of whole flour of coarse cereals including pearl millet and by products of refined flour of fine cereals like wheat, rice and oats is an issue of concern for industries and consumers. Of the whole set of enzymes in bran and germ, lipase and esterase, mainly present in the outer bran fraction of the cereal kernel, hydrolyze water insoluble and soluble esters yielding free fatty acids that generate lipolytic rancidity. As \"lipolytic enzymes,\" esterases (carboxyl ester hydrolases; EC.3.1.1.1) and lipases (triacylglycerol acylhydrolase; EC.3.1.1.3) have the ability to hydrolyze hydrophobic short and long chain carboxylic acid esters, respectively. Esterases catalyze the hydrolysis of ester bonds of water soluble substrate and show a preference for water-soluble fatty acids of less than 10 carbon atoms. Esterases catalyze the hydrolysis mainly esters composed of short chain fatty acids. Triglycerides contained in endosperm are hydrolyzed into free fatty acids and glycerol by lipolytic enzymes found in seeds. Moreover, chemical and kinetic characters of Plants fatty acid esterase are very less known. Comparison of chemical properties of Esterase and kinetic behavior with esters of different plants will give the enzyme great potential for application in the production of low molecular weight esters, in the food industry, and in chemical product. Physiochemical and kinetic properties, high stability, and low cost of production is the main advantage of esterase, it is possible to get more healthy and stable enzymes for industrial uses.','Fatty Acid, Esterases, lipolytic enzymes, energy reserve tissues, free fatty acids','The natural substrates of the esterases, a huge, diversified, and complicated set of enzyme molecules with overlapping substrate specificities, remain mostly unknown. The most active esterases, however, were all found to react more favourably with short-chain esters that included a specific acyl group. The Km and Vmax of esterase indicated that, these enzymes exhibits higher activity towards the short chain naphthyl esters. It was concluded that comparatively higher activity of fatty acid esterase, lower Km value for its substrates and lower optimum temperature might be responsible for faster in situ hydrolysis of lipids. Indirect fortification of flour by ascorbic acid treatment of pearl millet grains was effective in negatively modulating activities of Fatty acid esterase for arresting not only in situ hydrolysis but also enzymatic oxidation of lipids.','INTRODUCTION\r\nA top goal has always been ensuring food security because of the rising need for food as the population grows. Lipase and esterase are two of the many enzymes found in bran and germ, and they are primarily found in the outer bran portion of cereal kernels. They hydrolyze water-insoluble and soluble esters, producing free fatty acids that cause lipolytic rancidity (Doblado-Maldonado et al., 2012). High lipids content is one of the important factors responsible for development of rancidity (Goyal et al., 2015). High lipolytic enzyme esterase activity has been substantially associated with the development of hydrolytic rancidity. In moistened flour, lipoxygenase either performs non-enzymatically or enzymatically the oxidation of the free fatty acids collected during storage. By oxidising polyunsaturated fatty acids produced by lipase activity in the presence of too much moisture while the dough is being mixed, it may have a negative impact on the quality of the wheat (Delcros et al., 1998; Mann and Morrison, 1975). The secondary oxidation products, such as volatile substances like hexanal and various ketones, are produced by the rearrangement and decomposition of the hydroperoxide derivatives produced as a result of Lipoxygenase activity (Doblado-Maldonado et al., 2012). Poor bread quality is caused by hydrolytic and oxidative rancidity products (Tait and Galliard 1988), production of bitter compounds (Bin and Peterson 2016) and a decline in sensory properties (Hansen and Rose 1996). Despite being assigned different enzyme class numbers for the two distinct functions, the identical enzymes perform amidase and esterase reactions. The esterases are divided into A-, B-, and C-esterases based on how they interact with toxicologically significant organophosphates. Organophosphates are potent inhibitors of B-esterases, which accounts for their (intended selective insecticidal as well as unintentional overdose mammalian) toxicity. Organophosphates are substrates of A-esterases and are consequently detoxified by them. C-esterases do not interact with organophosphates. Since esterases can be used in a wide range of industries, including the food industry, pharmaceuticals, fine chemistry, etc., there is increasing interest in them. Numerous characteristics of esterases, including their widespread dispersion, measurement, manufacturing, synthesis target, purification, and molecular biology, have been published. The esterases are used in the synthesis of low molecular weight esters, the creation of dairy products, wine, fruit juices, beer, and alcohol (Goyal et al., 2015). Modulators as extrinsic factors, often metal ions or organic compounds of known as well as unknown function have often been employed either to identify their role as direct participation as cofactor in catalysis, identification of amino acid residues in active site, or stabilizer/de-stabilizer of intra and inter subunit interactions so as to change catalysis favourably. Negative modulation of lipids hydrolyzing or oxidizing enzymes native to grains by pre treatment of grains and/or fortification of flour with food grade additives may prove to be an effective approach for decreasing their activities in flour and thus slowing down the reactions leading to minimal production of undesirable metabolites viz., free fatty acids, hydroxyperxides, volatile aldehydes/ketone etc Barros and Macedo (2015). Gaining knowledge of its physico-chemical and kinetic properties is a pre-requisite for identifying modulator(s) of enzyme activity which necessitates purification of fatty acid esterases.\r\nPartial purification of plant Fatty acid esterases. Extraction buffers or solutions used by the investigators for preparation of crude extract of Fatty acid esterases from various plant sources along with their activities and specific activity are listed in Table 1. Barros and Macedo (2015) extracted the enzyme from soybean seeds in1 mM CaCl2 with added 5 mM EDTA, however, earlier (Barros and Macedo 2011). They used only 1 mM CaCl2, 1 mM. Chen et al. (2019) also preferred 1mM CaCl2 containing 2.5 mM DTT and 0.1% Triton X-10 for extracting the enzyme from rice bran. Therefore, mentioned researcher did not mention pH of CaCl2 solutions. Tris-HCl buffer of either 50 or 100 mM strength and pH ranging from 7.0 to 8.3 was used for extraction of esterase and 50 mM phosphate buffer of pH 7.0 or 7.5 have been used by the researchers. Invariably pearl millet fatty acid esterases have been extracted in 100 mM phosphate buffer of pH 8.0 (Sheenu et al., 2018). Activities and specific activities of FAEs in crude extracts varies depending upon plant species.\r\nLevels of fold purification and recovery of enzyme activity of different plant Fatty acid esterases by fractional precipitation with ammonium sulphate and organic solvents are presented in Table 3. Recovering 92 % of the enzyme activity purified Fatty acid esterases from Synadenium grantii. Staubmann et al. (1999) used 50-80 % alcohol for fractional precipitation of Jatropha curcas L. FAE but had not reported recovery of the activity. \r\nPhysiochemical and kinetic properties of plant Fatty acid esterase. Earlier a good comparison of activities of p-nitrophenylpalmitate dependent esterases and lipase of many grasses was made by Mohamed et al. (1999). They reported high variation the level of activities not only among the genus but within species or cultivars. By conducting experiments at various temperatures in the range of 30-90°C at pH 7.0, using 0.1 M phosphate buffer, it was possible to determine the impact of temperature on the esterase activity. Most pure esterases from plants and animals were found to work best at a pH between 7.0 and 9.0. For sorghum, barley, and Mucuna seeds, a pH of 7.0 was shown to be ideal for plant esterases. Most plant esterases were stable in the pH range of 4 to 9.0. Similar to this, Caesalpania seed esterase had an optimal pH of 7, and it was stable between pH 4 and 9.0.\r\nIndustrial Applications: The industrial uses of esterases provide significant contributions to environmentally friendly practises in the food, textile, agrochemical (herbicides, insecticides), and bioremediation industries (Gupta, 2016). Esterases hydrolyze ester bonds and act on a wide range of naturally occurring and synthetically produced substances, making them very helpful in the bioremediation process. It is possible to successfully determine the primary amino acid sequence and three-dimensional structure of enzymes through purification. The structure-function relationships of pure esterases may be established using X-ray investigations, which can help to better understand the kinetic mechanisms of esterase activity on the hydrolysis, synthesis, and group exchange of esters. Esterase is essential for the breakdown of hazardous compounds, polymers, and other natural and industrial contaminants such grain trash. The synthesis of optically pure chemicals, flavouring agents, fragrances, and antioxidants can all benefit from it (Panda and Gowrishankar 2005). In the oxidation and cycling of marine organic carbon, esterases play a significant role. Sea-derived halotolerant esterases might work well in high-salt industrial operations (Zhang et al., 2017). Octyl Acetate (OA) or Octyl Ethanoate is a flavour ester with a fruity orange flavour that is utilised in the food and beverage industries. It is made from octanol and acetic acid. It can be found in foods like wines, wheat bread, cedar cheese, bananas, sour cherries, and oils made from citrus peel. It is a flavouring component that serves as the foundation for synthetic orange flavouring. The purification of esterase and its usage in the manufacture of octyl acetate ester are the main topics of the current research. This is the first account of octyl acetate being synthesized using esterase.','Nisha, L.K. Chugh, Priya, Satender Kumar and Anshu (2022). Plants Fatty Acid Esterases: A review. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 14(3): 424-428.'),(5290,'136','Estimating Net Sown Areas at Kalwakurthy Branch Canal using Multi Temporal Sentinel-2A Satellite Data','Tasleema Nasreen*, T.L. Neelima, Tarik Mitran and K. Avil Kumar','70 Estimating Net Sown Areas at Kalwakurthy Branch Canal using Multi Temporal Sentinel-2A Satellite Data Tasleema Nasreen.pdf','',1,'Mapping crop areas is the first step in characterizing critical crop growing environments that help macro-level planning, leading to sustainable use of resources and improvement in drylands. Mapping of the crops at the district, regional or the national level gives an information of the change in the cropping pattern in an area and also gives the input for the various agencies such as the regional agricultural agencies, insurance agencies and geo portal boards.In the present study the attempt has been made to generate spatial distribution of the kharif and rabi area during 2015-16 in Kalwakurthy Branch Canal develop under Mahatma Gandhi Kalwakurthy Lift Irrigation Scheme (MGKLIS) which is one of the irrigation project in the Telangana State. The study utilized Sentinel-2A satellite based NDVI (Normalized Difference Vegetation Index) to extract net sown area of study site. The crop map obtained using the conditional based classification showed that the kharif area, rabi area and orchard area were estimated as 5721.54 ha, 1287.47 ha and 1627.36 ha respectively. The results indicated that the overall accuracy and Kappa coefficient achieved were 86.67% and 0.77.','Cropping season, Crop mapping, Sentinel 2A, NDVI','In the present study, net sown areas of 5721.54 ha (kharif), 1287.47 ha (rabi) and orchard (1627.36) were estimated over Kalwakurthy Branch Canal with an overall accuracy of 86.7%. Besides, the spatial distribution pattern of the net sown area during the Kharif and rabi seasons was also generated. The current study showcases the potentialities of high-resolution temporal images and ground data for mapping net sown area at field scale. The study has led to the development of a new method for mapping croplands using Sentinel-2 NDVI time-series and a conditional-based classification approach. The classification approach developed in the study can be applied further for regional, district, state, and country level assessment of the net sown area. The information generated in the present study could be a valuable input for the state agricultural department, various agencies such as the regional agricultural agencies, insurance agencies, and geo portal boards for micro-level planning for sustainable agriculture.','INTRODUCTION\r\nDryland areas are highly vulnerable because of high variability in rainfall (Misra et al., 2010). Construction of the new irrigation structures ensures the water supply in dryland areas, which plays a significant role in the cropping system. Over the years, dryland agriculture\'s changing character and extent underline the importance of continuously monitoring croplands to ensure sustainable food production (Gumma et al., 2020). Cropland mapping and monitoring are essential for estimating potential harvesting, agricultural field management (Sonobe et al., 2017), food production, and sustainable natural resources management (Belgiu and Csillik 2018). Mapping of the crops at the district, regional or national level gives information on the change in the cropping pattern in an area. Also, it provides input for various agencies such as the regional agricultural agencies, insurance agencies, and geo portal boards. Crop classification and land monitoring can be estimated using many earth observation satellites (Rodriguez-Galiano et al., 2012). The temporal and spatial variations in the crop area will help in improving the productivity of land and water (Neelima et al., 2013). Remote sensing (e.g., satellites and drones) has made it possible to assess and monitor the extent and status of cultivated land. Remote sensing techniques are a handy and cost-effective tool for acquiring a large amount of information (Ryu et al., 2011). The images from the satellite provide a valid alternative, particularly when the area needs to be estimated at the state or national level (Thenkabail et al., 2010).The launch of the Sentinel -2 satellite by the European Space Agency provides free optical data with high resolution. Sentinel-2A was launched in June 2015, and Sentinel-2B, launched in March 2017, provides data at five days. For this study, conditional based classification was performed, and the approach of using temporal data. NDVI for the cropping season based on the crop calendar was used. Sentinel 2, with the higher temporal resolution availability of data, made it easier to analyze the crop condition on each 6th day, and the crop was mapped at the scale of 10-meter resolution\r\nBy keeping the above mentioned views in mind the present study was designed to examines the spatial distribution of kharif and rabi (including orchards) area under the Kalwakurthy Branch canal during 2015-16. The frequent monitoring of the cropping pattern in an area can help the irrigation engineers to schedule the irrigations which can help in calculating the water requirement for the command area.\r\nMATERIALS AND METHODS\r\nLocation of the study site and its description. Mahatma Gandhi Kalwakurthy Lift Irrigation Scheme (MGKLIS) is one of the flagship irrigation projects in the Telangana State, which has served as a boon for drought-prone areas of Mahabubnagar, Nagarkurnool, and Wanaparthy districts since 2016. The MGKLIS is divided into two branch canals, namely the Achampet branch canal (ABC) of 90 km in length and the Kalwakurthy Branch Canal (KBC) of 160 km in length. The present study is carried out for KBC. The study area is located between 16°9\'36\"N to 16° 44\' 54\" N latitude and 78°1\'18\"E to 78°34\' 46\"E longitude. The KBC has an ayacut of 96,405 ha. It is a semi-arid region with a hot and dry climate with an annual rainfall of 600-1100 mm, and the average temperature is 35°C. The major crops grown in the study area are paddy, cotton, redgram, and groundnut. Two types of soils are predominant in the study area, namely red soils and black cotton soils\r\nSentinel-2 data: Sentinel-2 satellite with 10-meter resolution has a revisit period of 6-day surface reflectance from the EU Copernicus Programme is ideal for monitoring vegetation at a small scale (Xiong et al. 2017) was used for the study. Two tiles namely PHT and QHU covering the required region were downloaded from the Copernicus Open Access Hub (https://scihub.copernicus.eu/).\r\nPre-processing of Sentinel-2Adata: ERDAS imagine software was used to pre-process and mosaic the tiles of the study area, and then stack them as a single composite. The bands Blue, Green, Red and Near Infra-Red are used for generation of the False Colour Composite (FCC) image. The shape files received from the MGKLIS Executive Engineer Office; Nagar Kurnool was used to clip the data to the study area.\r\nGround data collection: The field survey was carried out during 2021-22 and information regarding the crops grown during 2015-16 was collected with interaction from the farmers. The information regarding the orchards and forests was collected with the help of Google Earth Pro.\r\nSatellite Indices: The Normalized Difference Vegetation Index (NDVI) maps were generated for the multi-date images for the year 2015-16 and the NDVI composite was prepared by layers stacking the obtained NDVI multi-date images (Jan 10th, Feb 9th, March 10th, April 18th, 2016). The layer stacked NDVI images were used for the extraction of the maximum and minimum NDVI values.\r\nNDVI=(NIR-RED)/(NIR+RED)\r\nImage Classification: Image classification aimed to separate the kharif and rabi areas using multi-date satellite images. The obtained NDVI images were layer stacked date-wise, the k-cluster algorithm of unsupervised classification was used for classification, and 300 spectral classes were generated with 200 iterations with the convergence threshold of 0.99. For these 300 classes, the zonal mean was extracted using the spatial model in the ERDAS imagine software, and this obtained zonal mean was used for the generation of the class-wise NDVI profile and for the extraction of the spectral signatures. The different classification methods give varying results that depend on factors such as the type of satellite data and the subject of the classification. The classification can also be affected by factors such as the selected spectral bands, ancillary data, and the nature of the study area (Foody and Arora 1997). Unsupervised classification is based on exploiting the inherent tendency of different classes to form separate spectral clusters in the feature space. It uses algorithms that search for natural groupings of the spectral properties of the pixels. The computer selects the class means and covariance matrix to be used in the classification. Once the data is classified into clusters, each cluster is then associated with a physical category (Deekshatulu and George Joseph 1991)\r\nExtraction of spectral signatures: A prerequisite for classification of the crop area is to identify NDVI temporal signatures for each class of interest. The NDVI values < 0.35 indicated built-up area, water bodies and other non-vegetation areas, whereas NDVI values > 0.75 represented forest area. The NDVI values for the different crops ranged from 0.35 to 0.6.The temporal variation of crop NDVI values also makes crop lands to be easily distinguishable from other non-crop vegetation. Crops can be easily separated from other non-vegetation classes due to their higher NDVI values. \r\nConditional based classification for area estimation: Conditional-based classification is just another type of classifier that makes the class decision depending on using various rules. These rules were easily interpretable; thus, these classifiers are generally used to generate descriptive models. The classification uses the decision based on the NDVI values during the crop growth. The spectral signatures of the different classes were analyzed from sowing to the harvest of crops. The rules were framed based on the trends in the signatures using the model maker in the spatial editor in the ERDAS IMAGINE software. The methodology for estimating the kharif and rabi area is presented in Fig. 2.\r\n \r\nRESULTS AND DISCUSSION\r\nThe spatial distribution map (Fig. 4) obtained for 2015-16 using the conditional-based classification of Sentinel-2 NDVI data showed that the kharif area, rabi area and orchard area were estimated as 5721.54 ha, 1287.47 ha and 1627.36 ha respectively. The map generated from the conditional-based approach was assessed for its accuracy. Due to the scarcity of irrigation water, the kharif area had more cropland occupied than the rabi area during 2015-16, as the kharif area is under rainfed irrigation. The classification was carried out using the NDVI values, and the NDVI values for croplands increased a few days after sowing and attained a peak a few weeks before harvesting. After harvesting, when the land becomes fallow, the NDVI value reaches its lowest and further increases with another crop sowing. Therefore, time series NDVI of 4 months, i.e., January to April, were analyzed based on these perceptions. Each pixel was analyzed to check whether it follows this specific pattern and, if it does, then in which season it is attaining a peak value. The associated duration classes were identified and mapped based on the peaks obtained during the particular month. For the kharif area, the maximum NDVI value during January was 0.63; after that, it decreased for consecutive months. The rabi area was mainly comprised of the field crops such as paddy, maize, groundnut etc., and orchard area consist of orchards such as mango, sapota etc., The staggered planting of paddy was observed during the rabi. For the paddy crop, the NDVI values during January and February ranged between 0.15 to 0.2 as the crop was at the puddling and transplanting stages, respectively. When the crop reached the maximum tillering stage, the NDVI peaked during March and April, with values ranging between 0.5 to 0.6.\r\nConsequently, the maize crop was classified during January and February with the NDVI values ranging between 0.3 to 0.45, respectively, when the crop was at knee height stage, whereas NDVI reached a peak at tasseling and silking stages during March and April with 0.6 and 0.5 NDVI. The NDVI values, which were constant for all the consecutive months and ranged between 0.45 to 0.6, were considered the orchard area. The accuracy assessment results indicated that the overall accuracy and Kappa coefficient achieved were 86.67% and 0.77, respectively.\r\n','Tasleema Nasreen, T.L. Neelima, Tarik Mitran and K. Avil Kumar (2022). Estimating Net Sown Areas at Kalwakurthy Branch Canal using Multi Temporal Sentinel-2A Satellite Data. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 14(3): 429-433.'),(5291,'136','Growth and Yield Response of different Indian Mustard [Brassica juncea (L.)] varieties to Irrigation Scheduling','Shravan Kumar Maurya, Aniket Kalhapure, Narendra Singh, Arun Kumar, Pradeep Yadav, Mandeep Kumar and Brijesh Kumar Maurya','71 Growth and Yield Response of different Indian Mustard [Brassica juncea (L.)] varieties to Irrigation Scheduling Shravan Kumar Maurya.pdf','',1,'The field experiment to study the response of various mustard varieties to different irrigation scheduling treatments through critical growth stage approach was conducted during Rabi season of year 2019-20 at Integrated Farming System research Unit farm in Banda University of Agriculture and Technology, Banda (U.P. - 210001) India. The experiment was laid out in strip plot design with three replications. Four irrigation scheduling treatments [viz. I0: No Irrigation, I1: One Irrigation at Rosette stage, I2: One Irrigation at Pod formation and I3: Two Irrigations (1st at Rosette + 2nd at Pod Formation)] were allocated to horizontal plots; whereas two mustard varieties (viz. NRCHB-101 and PM-28) were sown in vertical plots. Higher growth attributing characters at different crop stages and at harvest viz. plant height, number of primary & secondary branches, leaf area index, plant dry matter, crop growth rate, relative growth rate and net assimilation rate and yield (grain yield, straw yield, biological yield and harvest index) along with B: C ratio were recorded under treatment irrigating the crop for two times during rosette and pod formation. NRCHB-101 was observed maximum growth attributing characters and yield in compared to PM-28 at all growth stages. ','Mustard, irrigation scheduling, growth attribute, variety and yield','The current study concludes that irrigation scheduling with two irrigations (first at rosette stage and second during pod formation stage) improves the growth attribute, yield and B: C ratio of Indian mustard. Similarly mustard variety NRCHB-101 shows better performance in terms of growth as compared to variety PM-28.','INTRODUCTION\r\nIndia is the third largest producer of rapeseed-mustard after Canada, China and contributing to around 11 % of world’s total production. Rapeseed-mustard are the important oilseed crops and also one of the second largest oilseed crops in India. Globally around 36.59 million hectares area is under Rapeseed and mustard along with 72.37 million tonnes production and 1980 kg ha-1 productivity during 2018-19. India account for 19.8 % and 9.8% of the total acreage and production (USDA). In India around 6.23 million hectare area is under Rapeseed and mustard along with 8.6 million tonnes production and 1346 kg/ha productivity (source DRMR). Rapeseed and mustard is cultivated in majority of states of the country, Rajasthan (44.97 %), Haryana (12.44 %), Madhya Pradesh (11.32%) Uttar Pradesh (10.60 %), and West Bengal (7.53 %) during (2014-15 to 2018-19) (source DRMR). In India, out of rapeseed-mustard, Indian mustard [Brassica juncea (L.)] is a predominant crop and covers more than 90% area of mustard. After soybean and palm oil, it is third important oilseed in the world. In Indian mustard oil contain varies from 37 to 42 percent with 38-57 % eruric acid, 27% oleic acid and seed & oil are used as condiment in the preparation of pickles, curries, vegetables, hair oils, medicines and manufacture of greases. The oil cake is used as feed for animals and manure (5.1 % N, 1.8% P2O5 and 1.1 % K2O). Oil cake or meal has high nutritional values in animal diet. Leaves of the young plants are used as green vegetables and green stem leaves are a good source of green fodder for cattle. In tanning industry, mustard oil is used for softening of leather.\r\nRapeseed – mustard crops in India are grown in diverse agro climatic conditions ranging from north-eastern /north –western hills to down south under irrigated /rain fed timely/late sown, saline and mixed cropping (Gupta et al., 2020). Rapeseed and mustard is crops of tropical as well as temperate zones and require somewhat cool and dry weather for proper growth. They require a fair supply of soil moisture during the growing period and a dry clear weather at the time of maturity. Cool temperature, clear dry weather with plentiful of bright sun shine accompanied with sufficient soil moisture increase the oil yield. In India grown in Rabi season from September – October to February – March.\r\nSoil moisture is the most limiting factor for crop cultivation in Bundelkhand, as usual as dry land. Due to the scarcity and unavailability of irrigation water, production of Mustard is lower than average productivity of the country (Kullu et al., 2018). The knowledge of proper irrigation scheduling is important for the efficient utilization of irrigation water. Irrigation water must be applied at the proper time and in the right volume to achieve maximum crop output. Because of the higher evaporation demand of the atmosphere and little rainfall, mustard irrigation requirements are substantially higher when the crop is cultivated in water-stressed and arid places. Moisture stress occurs at critical growth and development stages when sufficient irrigation water is not available to meet the needs of the mustard crop. Irrigation is necessary for the proper growth of mustard during three important stages: rosette, pre-flowering, and pod production. Application of two irrigations at pre-flowering + grain filling stage of mustard significantly increases growth and yield attributing characters (Singh et al., 2018). However, number of irrigation depends on soil water content in the root zone soil, soil and climatic condition, and varieties (Chauhan and Singh, 2004). Appropriate water management with irrigation scheduling on the basis of critical growth stage approach will be the best option for increasing water productivity under stressed environment. Soil moisture in a specified root zone depth is depleted to a particular level (which is different for different crops), it is to be replenished by irrigation. (Rizk and Sherif 2014). More favorable irrigation regimes maintained under regular watering results in higher soil moisture content in rhizosphere promoting cellular activity of enlargement, expansion and multiplication with synergistic impact on leaf water potential, stomatal conductance and photosynthetic activity (Rana et al., 2019). It is also enhances the availability of different nutrients to the crop plants (Verma et al., 2018).\r\nVariety of the crop decides its growth and yield potential under specific agro-climate along with efficient resource utilization. Therefore, exploring appropriate varieties for higher yield in dryland condition is also having tremendous scope. Improved varieties have higher moisture use efficiency as compared to local varieties and can be adopted for efficient moisture use. The old and degenerated varieties due to their low yield potential and other factors like maturity, shattering habit, poor response to fertilizers and irrigation and susceptibility to insect-pest and diseases have poor productivity as compared to improved varieties of the region (Yamben et al., 2020). Selection of improved varieties are important for producer to achieve high crop yield by improving the fertilizer use efficiency and water use efficiency. Improved cultivars and hybrids offers better genetic makeup, ensures uniform germination and emergence maintaining optimum plant stand, higher survival under temperature stress during vegetative phase, resistance to major pests and diseases and efficient translocation and assimilation of assimilates which ultimately results in improved growth, yield contributing characters and productivity of mustard (Rana et al., 2019).\r\nMATERIALS AND METHODS\r\nThe research field was located at the Integrated Farming SystemFarm, Banda University of Agriculture and Technology, Banda -210001, Uttar Pradesh, India during Rabi season 2019-20, is situated between latitude 24o 53’ and 25o 55’N and longitudes 80o 07’ and 81o 34’ E and having an altitude of 168m above sea level. This region falls under agro climatic zone- 8 (Central Plateaus & Hills Region) of India. Meteorological data recorded during cropping season, showed that the mean maximum temperature varies from 21.5 to 30.4 C and the minimum temperature varies from 10.2 to 17.8C. Relative humidity ranged from 44 to 61% during the cropping period. Average wind speed was recorded 3.98 km h-1 during experiment period. During the period of experimentation total 14.3 mm rainfall in three rainy days received at trail location. Whereas, total evapotranspiration was 351.5 mm, which provided favourable conditions for crop growth. Initial soil fertility status of field experiment revealed soil pH 7.94, electrical conductivity 0.20 dSm-1, organic carbon 0.57 %, available sulphur 12.35 mg kg-1, available nitrogen 252 kg ha-1, available phosphorus 21.04 kg ha-1, available potassium 273.8 kg ha-1. The experiment was laid out in strip plot design with three replications. Four irrigation scheduling treatments viz. no irrigation, one irrigation at rosette stage, one irrigation at pod formation stage and two irrigations (1st at Rosette + 2nd at Pod Formation) were allocated in vertical plots; whereas horizontal plots consisted two varieties viz. NRCHB-101 and PM-28.\r\nThe experimental field was ploughed criss - cross with a tractor drawn disc and dry weeds as well as stubbles were removed. The field was again ploughed by rotavator and finally planking was done to obtain a good soil tilth. The seed are sown on 09/10/2019 by hand equally in the furrows and instantly after the sowing of seed furrow is cover by the soil. Seed of Indian mustard has sown in row to row distance of 45cm and plant to plant distance is maintained about 10 - 15cm with 4 to 5 cm depth. 5 kg seed sufficient for one hectare. A uniform dose of phosphorus (60 kg P2O5 ha-1), potassium (60 kg K2O kg ha-1), half dose of nitrogen (60 kg N ha-1) and (40 sulphur kg ha-1) through di-ammonium phosphate, muriate of potash, urea and alimental sulphur was applied below the seeds at the time of sowing of crop, respectively. Remaining half dose of nitrogen (60 kg N ha-1) was applied as top dressing in the form of urea. Thinning of extra plant in the rows was done at 20 days after the sowing by hand pulling to maintain the plant spacing. Two hand weeding were done for weed free crop field. First weeding has done at 25 DAS second wedding at 40 DAS. To protect crop from aphids (Lipaphis erysimi), Imidacloprid (17.8 SL) @ 1 ml per 2.5 Litter was sprayed during flowering to pod formation stage.\r\nAll the growth and yield attributing characters were recorded with the standard methodology at different growth stages of the crop. Various growth indices were estimated with the formulae as per mentioned below-\r\nLeaf area index\r\nLAI = (Total leaf area of plant )/(Ground area )\r\nCrop growth rate\r\nCGR (g m-2 day-1)=(W2 – W1)/(t2-t1)\r\nWhere, W1 and W2 are dry weight (gm-2) at first and second taken at times t1 and t2 respectively.\r\nRelative growth rate\r\n RGR (g day-1)=(log⁡W2- log⁡W1)/(t2-t1)\r\nWhere, W1 and W2 are dry weight (g m-2) at times t1 and t2 respectively.\r\nNet assimilation rate \r\n NAR (g m-2day-1)= ( W2 - W1)/(t2 - t1) (log⁡〖L2 -〖 log〗⁡L1 〗/(L2- L1))\r\nWhere, W1 and W2 are dry weight (g m-2) at times t1 and t2 respectively.L1 and L2 are Leaf area at times t1 and t2 respectively.\r\nHarvest Index \r\n \r\nWhere, Economic yield = seed yield (q ha-1); Biological yield = seed yield + straw yield (q ha-1)\r\nRecorded data was analyzed using appropriate method of ‘Analysis of Variance (ANOVA)’ given by Gomez and Gomez (1984).\r\nRESULTS AND DISCUSSION\r\nA. Effect of treatments on growth attributing characters\r\nTallest plants at harvest were recorded with two irrigations (1st at Rosette + 2nd at Pod Formation) in comparison to no irrigation, one irrigation at rosette and one irrigation at pod formation stages (Table 1). It might be due to the supply of adequate moisture during critical growth stages. Ray et al. (2014); Tavassoli et al. (2020) have correlated the availability of sufficient moisture in crop root zone and uptake of various nutrients and relative increase in plant growth attributes. Similar results have also been reported by Singh et al. (2018). Effect of varieties on plant height was found to be non- significant at all the stages of crop growth. \r\nApplication of two Irrigations (1st at Rosette + 2nd at Pod Formation) at harvest was produced significantly maximum dry matter 785.36 gm-2 as compared to other control. One irrigation each at rosette and pod formation stages were found to be at par with each other. The superior vegetative growth and morphological parameters viz. plant height, LAI, number of branches with two Irrigations (1st at Rosette + 2nd at Pod Formation) were further reflected into higher plant dry matter accumulation at harvest which was earlier reported by Kumar et al. (2020), Sarma and Das (2016) in mustard crop.It was found that the effect of varieties on dry matter accumulation was non- significant at all the growth stages of crop.\r\nHigher LAI at 60 and 90 DAS was found with two irrigation (1st at Rosette + 2nd at Pod Formation). However, irrigating the crop once at rosette stage was found at par with two irrigations (1st at Rosette + 2nd at Pod Formation) at 60 DAS. One irrigation each at rosette and pod formation stages at 90 DAS were found to be at par with each other. Which might be due to sufficient moisture availability. Such effect of irrigation regimes on LAI was also reported earlier by Verma et al. (2018). Effect of varieties on leaf area index was found to be non-significant at 30 DAS. However, NRCHB-101 was recorded significantly maximum LAI as compared to PM-28 at 60 and 90 DAS (Table 1).\r\nSignificantly highest number of primary and secondary branches at harvest were recorded under two irrigations (1st at Rosette + 2nd at Pod Formation) over the treatments no irrigation and one irrigation at pod formation (Table 1). Lowest number of primary and secondary braches were observed under no irrigation treatment. However, scheduling one irrigation at rosette stage was found at par with two irrigations (1st at Rosette + 2nd at Pod Formation) at all growth stages. Sufficient moisture in crop root zone and uptake of various nutrients and relative increase in plant growth attributes result as a result increases number of branches. Ahamed et al. (2019); Hossain et al. (2013). Effect of varieties on number of branches was found to be non- significant at all the growth stages of crop.\r\nB. Effect of treatments on growth rates and photosynthetic efficiency\r\nIt was found that the effect of various irrigation scheduling treatments on CGR, RGR and NAR at 30 DAS was non- significant. Significantly higher crop growth rate at 30 to 60 DAS, 60 to 90 DAS and 90 DAS to at harvest was observed in treatment two irrigations (1st at Rosette + 2nd at Pod Formation) over no irrigation and one irrigation at pod formation treatment. However, it was on par with treatment one irrigation at rosette at all the growth stages. At 30 – 60 DAS significantly higher relative growth rate was found in one irrigation at rosette stage as compared to no irrigation and one irrigation at pod formation stages. During 60 to 90 DAS and 90 DAS to harvest treatment one irrigation at pod formation stage was superior; which was on par with two irrigations at rosette and pod formation. Two irrigations (1st at Rosette + 2nd at Pod Formation) was resulted in significantly superior net assimilation rate during 30 to 60 DAS over all the other treatments (Table 2). However, during 60 to 90 DAS treatment one irrigation at pod formation stage was found superior. The superior vegetative growth and morphological parameters viz. plant height, LAI, number of branches with two Irrigations (1st at Rosette + 2nd at Pod Formation) were further reflected into crop growth indices viz. CGR, RGR and NAR; which was earlier reported by Sarma and Das (2016); Hasanuzzaman (2008); Ahamed et al. (2019) in mustard crop. In case variety the effect of varieties on CGR, RGR and NAR were found to be non- significant at all the growth stages of crop.\r\nC. Effect of treatments on yield and economics\r\nIncrement in growth attributing characters were ultimately reflected in yield attributing characters viz. pod plant-1, pod length, grain pod-1 and test weight; Crop yield attributes are further reflected into grain and straw yield; which was found highest (22.32 q ha-1, 70.05 q ha-1, respectively) with application of two irrigations (1st at Rosette + 2nd at Pod Formation). Similarly, highest Harvest Index (24.16) was observed in treatment two irrigations (1st at Rosette + 2nd at Pod Formation) as compared to other treatments (Table 3). Lowest grain yield (17.62 q ha-1), straw yield (62.27q ha-1) and Harvest Index (22.06) were recorded under no irrigation treatment. Such effect of irrigation scheduling on yield attributing characters and yield of mustard have been earlier reported by Ahamed et al. (2019); Begum et al. (2018); Sivran et al. (2018).\r\nMaximum cost of cultivation (28521 ₹ ha-1) was recorded under two irrigations (1st at Rosette + 2nd at Pod Formation) and minimum cost of cultivation (24149 ₹ ha-1) recorded under no irrigation control. The cost of cultivation was high because more number of irrigation which increases the cost of cultivation of corresponding treatments. Maximum gross return (93759 ₹ ha-1), net return (65238 ₹ ha-1) and benefit cast ratio (2.29) were recorded under two irrigations (1st at Rosette + 2nd at Pod Formation). Whereas, minimum gross return (74014 ₹ ha-1), net return (49864 ₹ha-1) and benefit cast ratio (2.06) recorded under no irrigation control. Gross return, net return and benefit cast ratio were more due to higher production grain yield of Indian mustard crop. The effect of irrigation scheduling on economics of mustard has been also described earlier by various scientists; Piri et al. (2011); Barick et al. (2020); Ray et al. (2014).\r\nIncreased grain yield of NRCHB-101 has been further reflected in higher harvest index (23.63), gross monetary return (86950 ₹ ha-1), net monetary return (60426 ₹ ha-1), B: C ratio (2.28) and crop water use efficiency (5.89) as compared to PM-28 (Basavanneppa and Kumar 2020; Kashyap et al., 2017).\r\n','Shravan Kumar Maurya, Aniket Kalhapure, Narendra Singh, Arun Kumar, Pradeep Yadav, Mandeep Kumar and Brijesh Kumar Maurya (2022). Growth and Yield Response of different Indian Mustard [Brassica juncea (L.)] varieties to Irrigation Scheduling. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 14(3): 434-439.'),(5292,'136','Response of Rice (Oryza sativa L.) to Irrigation Regimes and Precise Nitrogen Management Practices','K. Archana, Md. Latheef Pasha, K. Avil Kumar and T. Ram Prakash','72 Response of Rice (Oryza sativa L.) to Irrigation Regimes and Precise Nitrogen Management Practices K. Archana.pdf','',1,'During the kharif season of 2021, a field experiment was carried out at the college farm of PJTSAU Rajendranagar, Hyderabad to examine how rice responded to irrigation regimes and precise nitrogen management techniques (LCC, green seeker, nutrient expert, and recommended dose of fertilizer) on sandy clay soil. The experiment was laid out in a strip plot design, with four nitrogen treatments as subplots and three irrigation regimes as main plots. According to the findings, flooded transplanted rice outperformed AWD by sensor-based semi-automatic irrigation and AWD by manual irrigation in terms of panicles m-2 (307.8m-2), test weight (23.8 g), and grain yield (6302.5 kg ha-1). It is inferred that when comparing precise nitrogen management techniques, top dressing of N as per LCC recorded the highest panicles m-2 (304.5 m-2), test weight (24.1 g), and grain production (6124.8 kg ha-1) than green seeker, nutrient expert and RDF. ','Rice, AWD, Sensor, LCC, Nutrient expert, Green seeker','According to the findings, flooded transplanted rice recorded significantly higher yield attributes and grain yield, than AWD by sensor-based semi-automatic and AWD by manual irrigation. However, AWD is safe to apply in rice because it saves a lot of water (23.3 to 25.2 %) while just slightly reducing grain yield. Top dressing of nitrogen according to LCC resulted in higher yield attributes and grain yield, than other precise nitrogen management practices. However, application of N according to green seeker has the highest harvest index (49.1), indicating that with less N, the yield obtained is high, so using green seeker to apply nitrogen gives better results in terms of grain yield.','INTRODUCTION\r\nWater use is becoming one of the more worrisome environmental issues in many parts of the world as the planetary population continues to expand and resources become more constrained. The amount of water used to keep the fields in optimum condition can occasionally be wasted by ineffective irrigation practices used on farms, especially when it comes to rice. It is a fallacy that rice can only be produced in submerged environments. Farmers in India and many other countries across the world regularly pond their rice crop for over 80% of the time they are in cultivation. Previously rice was cultivated in submerged conditions to control weeds but over time it has become mandatory. A switch from a continuously submerged system to an alternate wetting and drying system is therefore necessary. Continuous flooding can be avoided by AWD, which also conserves water. There is an added benefit if AWD can be automated using IoT (Internet of Things). Thus, the primary goal is to optimize the use of water in agricultural irrigation systems by applying artificial intelligence techniques and thereby reducing the quantity of water lost with conventional irrigation systems. Modern farmers are using cutting-edge technology to track crop productivity, gather data on crop growth, and collect weather data. IoT can connect all of them, and automated irrigation was once the place to start. By using IoT farmers can regulate the irrigation water as per crop needs. As a result, irrigation efficiency and water productivity are improved while ensuring logical water distribution.\r\nBecause so much nitrogen is lost from the soil through leaching and denitrification, rice has an extremely low nitrogen utilization efficiency of less than 30 to 40 %. The efficiency of added fertilizer N in rice is influenced by N sources, application techniques, N rates, and management techniques (Wang et al., 2011). For researchers and producers, effective management of fertilizers, particularly N, remains a significant concern. Therefore, implementing intelligent management strategies at the right moment according to the crop\'s needs is absolutely essential. Utilizing precise nitrogen management strategies, such as LCC, green seeker, and nutrient expert-based nitrogen management, can optimize and recommend nitrogen and meet crop nutrient needs while causing minimal environmental damage. Keeping the views above the experiment was planned to study the response of rice (Oryza sativa L) to irrigation regimes and precise nitrogen management.\r\nMATERIALS AND METHODS\r\nDuring the kharif season of 2021, the field experiment was held at the Water Technology Centre, College Farm, College of Agriculture, Rajendranagar, Hyderabad, Telangana. The experimental site was located at 17°32\' N Latitude, 78°40\' E Longitude, and an altitude of 542.6 m above mean sea level. The experiment field had a sandy clay texture, a pH of 7.6, and an EC of 0.86 dS m-1. It was low in organic carbon (0.45%) and available nitrogen (242 kg ha-1) but high in available phosphorous (34.5 kg ha-1) and potassium (197.6 kg ha-1). KNM-118 paddy variety was transplanted 30 days after sowing with 2-3 seedlings per hill with a spacing of 15cm × 15cm. The experiment was laid out in strip-plot design with three irrigation methods as main plot treatments viz., I1-Alternate wetting and drying by the sensor-based semi-automatic - Irrigation up to 5 cm depth throughout the crop growth when the water level drops 5 cm below ground level, I2- Alternate wetting and drying by manual - Irrigation up to 5 cm depth throughout the crop growth when the water level drops 5 cm below ground level, I3-Flooded transplanted rice- 2-5 cm of water depth as per crop growth stage (control) and four nitrogen treatments as subplot treatments viz., N1- Basal 1/3rd of N as soil application + top dressing of nitrogen as per LCC values, N2 - Basal 1/3rd of N as soil application + top dressing of nitrogen as per green seeker values, N3 - Nutrient expert-based nitrogen management, N4- Recommended dose of fertilizer (120-60-40 kg NPK ha-1). Each plot was separated by providing buffer channels for proper maintenance of the treatments. The amount of water applied to the field is measured with the help of a water meter.\r\nIn irrigation methods, AWD by manual irrigation the water level in the field is observed using a field water tube and when the water level reaches 5cm below ground level, the field was irrigated until 5cm above the ground and in AWD by sensor-based irrigation, water was applied to the field based on the indication from the sensor.For this study, we used the Smart Paddy Internet of Things technology, which applies to rice fields with fully automated and autonomous behaviour. Sensor can be automated in such a way that when the water level falls below 5cm below ground level, the motor turns on, and when the water level rises above 5cm above ground level, the motor turns off, preventing over-application of water.The farmer can control flows, volumes, and water levels in the fields using a special website, mobile app, or SMS service by manually operating when necessary or by configuring the irrigation program in accordance with the water requirements of various water-saving strategies.\r\nIn nitrogen management treatments nitrogen fertilizer was applied based on the LCC(Leaf colour chart is an easy-to-use tool for monitoring the relative greenness of a rice leaf as an indicator of the plant N and urea was applied when leaf matches LCC-3), and Green seeker (Green seeker handheld sensor is an easy-to-use optical sensor that instantly measures plant height and vigor in terms of NDVI readings and urea was applied when NDVI value is less than 0.7) in N1 and N2 respectively, whereas in N3 nitrogen fertilizer was applied in accordance with Nutrient expert software and in N4 as per recommended dosage(120-60-40 Kg NPK ha-1). \r\nRESULTS AND DISCUSSION\r\nA. Yield Attributes\r\nNumber of Panicles (m-2). The number of panicles m-2 was higher in I3 (308 m-2) than in I1 (266 m-2) and I2 (273 m-2) (Table 1). The lower number of panicles m-2 observed during the later water regime may be due to the fact that plants under moisture stress could not extract more nutrients from the deeper soil layer due to moisture deficit conditions. This ultimately resulted in poor growth, fewer tillers, and subsequently fewer panicles. Kumar et al. (2014); Sandhu et al. (2012) reported similar findings.\r\nThe number of panicles m-2 was much higher in the N1 (304 m-2) than in the N3(261 m-2) and N2 (271 m-2) and were on par with the N4 (293 m-2) (Table 1). The lowest number of panicles m-2in N3may be the result of insufficient nitrogen for crops to grow and develop more effectively (Sandya Rani, 2012). The findings concur with those of Sun et al. (2012); Ali Abdalla and Abou-Khalifa (2012).\r\nPanicle Length(cm). Panicle length was higher in I3 (22.8 cm) than in I1 (21.0 cm) and I2 (21.3 cm) (Table 1). The lower panicle length in I1 and I2could be due to thedue to lower water level might have caused moisture stress to rice plants.These findings are in consistent with those of Azarpour et al. (2011); Rahaman and Sinha (2013).\r\nThe panicle length was much higher in the N1 (22.8 cm) than in the N3 (20.4 cm) and N2 (21.5 cm) and on par with the N4 (22.2 cm) (Table 1). It is viable that the increased availability and uptake of N, which is a substrate for the synthesis of organic compounds that comprise protoplasm and chlorophyll, caused an increase in cell division and enlargement at higher nitrogen doses (Avijit et al., 2011). The findings of this study are similar to those of Malik et al. (2014); Ali Abdalla and Abou-Khalifa (2012); Debnath and Bandyopadhyay (2008).\r\nTest Weight (g). In contrast to I1 (21.6 g) and I2 (23.8 g), I3 had a higher test weight (21.9 g) (Table 1). Whereas I1 and I2 were on par with each other. According to the findings of several researchers, test weight can increase when crops receive enough water without being stressed during the flowering and grain development stages (Pandey et al., 2010; Rahaman and Sinha, 2013; Srinivasulu, 2017).\r\nTest weight (g) was substantially greater in N1 (24.1 g) than in N2 (22.1 g), N3 (20.6 g), and was on par with the N4 (23.0 g) (Table 1). The increased test weight could result from higher nitrogen application levels than lower nitrogen application levels transferring more carbohydrates to grain. Bhavana et al. (2020) reported findings that were comparable to these findings.\r\nGrain Yield (kg ha-1). In comparison to I1 (5532 kg ha-1) and I2 (5582 kg ha-1), I3 had a higher grain production of 6302 kg ha-1(Table 1). While I1 and I2 were on par with each other. The improved performance of the crop plants was aided by a favourable soil water balance under saturation, which may have contributed to the higher seed yield observed in the flooded transplanted rice. This favourable vegetative growth and development under an adequate and sufficient moisture regime were maintained throughout the crop growth. As a result, crop plants that received regular flooding irrigation when ponded water disappeared from the surface of the ground produced more tillers. Similar findings had been made by several other researchers Pandey et al. (2010); Kumar et al. (2013); Srinivasulu et al. (2017).\r\nThe grain yield in N1 (6125 kg ha-1) was significantly greater than that in N3 (5390 kg ha-1) and was comparable to that in N2 (5792 kg ha-1) and N4 (5915 kg ha-1) (Table 1). The enhancement of yield characteristics, which in turn increased the yield, was presumably caused by an adequate N supply during the reproductive growth phase (Duttarganvi et al., 2014). Kenchaiah et al. (2000) also found higher grain yield under LCC-based N management than the blanket recommendation. Similar findings were reported by Manjappa et al. (2006); Houshmandfar and Kimaro (2011); Sui et al. (2013); Bhavana et al. (2020).\r\nHarvest Index. A higher harvest index was recorded in I2 (47.9) than in I3 (46.9) and was on par with I1 (47.5) (Table 1). A significantly higher harvest index was observed in N2 (49.1) than in N3 (45.5) and was on par with N1 (48.5) and N4 (46.7) (Table 1). Timely release of nitrogen in a sustained manner to absorb and translocate sufficient quantities of photosynthates to the sink, resulted in the production of elevated yield structure and yield in top dressing of N as per LCC. This study findings concur with those of Moharana et al. (2017); Tauseeef Ahmad (2014).\r\nWater Saving. Amount of water saved in AWD by sensor-based semi-automatic irrigation and AWD by manual irrigation is 25.2% and 23.3 % higher than flooded transplanted rice.\r\n','K. Archana, Md. Latheef Pasha, K. AvilKumar and T. Ram Prakash (2022). Response of Rice (Oryza sativa L.) to Irrigation Regimes and Precise Nitrogen Management Practices. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 14(3): 440-444.'),(5293,'136','Occurrence and Distribution of AM Fungi in Cultivable Land and Forest Ecosystem','Kasthuri S., Kalaiselvi T. and Amirtham D.','73 Occurrence and Distribution of AM Fungi in Cultivable Land and Forest Ecosystem Kalaiselvi T.pdf','',1,'Arbuscular mycorrhizal fungal (AMF) density and diversity of rhizosphere soil samples of cultivable land (maize, onion and paddy) and forest ecosystem (teak, rose wood, porasu, flame of the forest and Indian kino) has been the focus of this study. One of the major components in influencing the AM fungal spore diversity is the unequal distribution of arbuscular mycorrhizal fungal spores and the complexity of the below-ground root system. To determine the natural existence of AM fungi in a certain area, it is crucial to study the diversity and distribution of AM fungus in different plant species. Although AM fungal spore density being more in cultivable land, there is no difference in terms of AMF diversity among the two ecosystems. The spore density was in the range of 68±1.67 (Indian Kino, Siruvani) to 102±4.41 (Onion, Narasipuram) spores 100 g-1 soil. From 4 rhizosphere of cultivable and 5 rhizosphere of forest soils, 12 AM fungal species with 7 genera were identified. They include Acaulospora sp, Ambispora leptotica, Glomus hoi, Glomus microcarpum, Glomus ambisporum, Glomus aggregatum, Septoglomus deserticola, Septoglomus constrictum, Paraglomus sp, Funneliformis geosporum, Gigaspora margarita and Gigaspora gigantea. Percent occurrence of these spores range from 11.11% (Acaulospora sp, Ambispora leptotica and Paraglomus sp) to 66.66% (Glomus hoi and Glomus microcarpum). This study also revealed a positive correlation between total glomalin and spore density and a negative correlation between available phosphorus level and spore density.','Cultivable land, forest ecosystem, AMF diversity','This study revealed that the AMF fungal density was greater in cultivable land. However, the diversity was found to be almost equal in both the ecosystem. But some of AMF genera were found to be unique to the ecosystem. For example, Gigaspora margarita was found in all rhizosphere soil samples of forest ecosystem while it was absent in the soil samples of cultivable land. On the contrary, Septoglomus deserticola was evidenced in all the rhizosphere soil samples of cultivable ecosystem and absent in forest soil. Another interesting observation is presence of Acaulospora sp in wet land rhizosphere alone and absent in all other rhizosphere of both cultivable and forest ecosystem. The dominant genera found in both the ecosystem are Glomus hoi, Glomus microcarpum and Septoglomus constrictum. Further studies are needed to ascertain the use of AMF genera of forest origin to boost the growth of agricultural crops.','INTRODUCTION \r\nArbuscular mycorrhizal fungi, one of the significant soil microorganisms, create symbiotic associations with most of the terrestrial plants (Smith and Read 2008). The extra radical mycelium develops spores, extends away from root zone to colonize, and absorbs nutrients (Ahmed et al., 2019), whilst the intraradical mycelium penetrates root epidermis and cortex zone and forms structures notably arbuscules and vesicles. The host plant provides carbohydrates and fatty acids to the AMF, and in return, the AMF supports the plants by enhancing inorganic nutrient uptake, increasing tolerance to stressors caused by salt (Dehn and Schuepp 1990), AMF also improves soil structure via aggregation by synthesizing a glycoprotein known as glomalin (Gao et al., 2019). The abundance and diversity of these fungi may be influenced by the plant species in the environment. The prevalence of AM fungus in both natural and disturbed grassland habitats is well documented. Numerous researches conducted over the last few years have revealed the variety of AM fungi (Wang et al., 2020). In order to preserve and enhance the ecosystem\'s stability, it is crucial to comprehend the diversity and distribution of AMF. Here, we assessed the AMF diversity in cultivable land and forest ecosystem of Coimbatore district of Tamil Nadu.\r\nMATERIALS AND METHODS\r\nA. Sampling location\r\nRhizosphere soil samples were collected from cultivable (TNAU and Narasipuram) and forest ecosystem (Velingiri and Siruvani Hills) of Coimbatore Tamil Nadu. Rhizosphere soil samples of onion (TNAU Orchard and Narasipuram), maize (TNAU), and rice (Wetland, TNAU) were collected from different locations. Similarly, rhizosphere soil samples of rosewood, teak, flame of forest and Indian Kino of Siruvani hills and Porasu tree of Velingiri hills were collected and stored at refrigerated condition for further processing.\r\nB. Physico-chemical and fertility status of soil samples \r\nThe dried soil samples were crushed, sieved through 2 mm sieve, physico-chemical characteristics (pH and EC) and fertility status (organic carbon, available nitrogen, phosphorus, and potassium) of collected soil samples were determined. Standard protocols were followed to measure pH, electrical conductivity, available nitrogen, phosphorus, and potassium (Subbiah and Asija 1956; Olsen et al., 1954; Toth and Prince 1949). The volumetric approach was used to calibrate organic carbon content of the soil (Walkley and Black 1934).\r\nC. Collection and identification of AMF spores\r\n(i) AM spore extraction and morphological characterization of AMF spores. By wet sieving and decantation technique (Gerdemann and Nicolson, 1963), AM fungal spores were extracted from different soil samples. Total number of spores in a gram of soil sample was calculated. Morphological identification of spores was done using physical characteristics such as colour, size, wall thickness, and hyphal attachment (Schenck and Perez, 1990). Spores were stained with a solution mixture consisted of 1:1 ratio of Melzer’s reagent (Morton, 1991) with PVLG (Koske and Testier, 1983) and observed under microscope.\r\nThe macro-characteristics such as sporocarp, spore, and subtending hypha were employed to distinguish between different species (Walker, 1992). The micro-characteristics of spore wall layer, texture, and colour were explored to discriminate between specific AM fungi. The visual differences in morphology of fungal hyphae and vesicles inside the roots were observed for more precise identification of AM fungi (Mehrotra and Mehrotra 1999).\r\n(ii) Glomalin content of soil samples. The amount of glomalin in the soil samples was measured by following the methodology of Wright and Upadhyaya (1998). One gram soil sample was mixed with 8 ml of 50 mM sodium citrate buffer (pH 8.0) and autoclaved for 60 minutes at 121°C. Reddish brown supernatant was collected by centrifuging the contents at 7000 rpm for 15 minutes. To the pellet, 50mM sodium citrate buffer was added, autoclaved and centrifuged. This procedure was repeated until the reddish-brown colour disappeared. The collected supernatant from each replicate was then pooled. The protein content of the extract was estimated by Bradford’s procedure using Bovine Serum Albumin as standard (Bradford 1976). Readings were taken at 595 nm with three replications in a microplate reader (Spectramax i3x) and expressed in mg g-1 soil.\r\n(iii) Studies on AMF diversity. Species richness, relative abundance and isolation frequency were calculated to quantify AM fungal diversity. The number of AM fungal species reported at each research site was used to calculate species richness. The relative abundance (RA) was calculated according to the equation: RA = A / Σ𝑎 × 100, where A = abundance of individual “i th” species, Σ𝑎 = sum of abundances of all species. The isolation frequency was defined as the percentage of samples from which particular species were isolated. Pearson correlation study was carried out to understand the influence of available phosphorous on AMF diversity indices. \r\n(iv) Statistical analysis. All the data were statistically analysed using SPSS software (version 16.0). The mean values were compared through Duncan’s multiple range test (DMRT) carried out at P≤0.05 (Duncan, 1955).\r\nRESULT AND DISCUSSION\r\nA. Physico-chemical properties of soil\r\nResults of physico-chemical properties and fertility status of rhizosphere soil samples are given in Table 1. The soils were mildly acidic to alkaline, with pH values ranging from 6.4 to 8.0. The soil reaction of rhizosphere samples of cultivable lands was slightly alkaline to alkaline. While the soil reaction of forest soil samples was neutral to acidic. The soluble salts concentration (EC) of soil samples of both cultivable and forest ecosystem ranged from 0.18 to 0.42 dsm-1. \r\nRhizosphere soils of cultivable lands registered greater EC values. Maximum EC value of 0.42 dsm-1 was observed in onion rhizosphere soil sample of Narasipuram. The lowest value of 0.18 dsm-1 was noticed with teak rhizosphere soil. Available nitrogen varied from 263 to 382 kg ha-1, phosphorus varied from 11 to 19 kg ha-1, and potassium ranged between 148 and 242 kg ha-1 respectively. The organic carbon content of the samples ranged from 0.32 to 0.89 %. Maximum organic carbon content of 0.89 % was observed in Porasu samples collected form Velingiri Hills.\r\nThe lowest organic carbon content of 0.32 % was found in maize rhizosphere of TNAU. However, the organic carbon content of rhizosphere soil samples of cultivable ecosystem was almost similar and did not vary with location and the type of rhizosphere. Similarly organic carbon content of soils of forest ecosystem did not vary with the kind of rhizosphere. It is quite obvious that organic carbon content of forest soils is greater than the soils of cultivable land. Due to continuous addition of litter and steady and slower rate of decomposition, there is build-up of organic carbon in the forest ecosystem. While in cultivable lands, first of all there is no addition of plant litter due to removal of all plant residues during weeding. Even if there is addition of litter, the rate of decomposition is faster in managed ecosystem like agricultural lands than forest ecosystem. These factors could have contributed for lesser organic carbon content of cultivable lands.\r\nB. Total glomalin content\r\nTotal glomalin content of rhizosphere of various crops (S1, S2, S3, S4, S5, S6, S7, S8, S9) ranged from 1.86±0.18 to 6.04±0.07 mg g-1 (Table 2). The highest glomalin content was observed in onion rhizosphere sample collected from Narasipuram (6.04±0.07 mg g-1) and the lowest was in the paddy rhizosphere soil of Wetlands of TNAU (1.86±0.18 mg g-1). The glomalin content of forest rhizosphere soil was in the range of 2.63±0.03 mg g-1 (flame of the forest) to 4.46±0.15 mg g-1 (porasu). Results of the study revealed a direct correlation between glomalin and AMF spore density and a less positive relationship between available phosphorus and AMF spore density (Fig. 1). \r\nC. AM fungal spore density \r\nThe AMF spore density differed greatly with the type of rhizosphere. It ranged from 68±1.67 to 102±4.41 per 100-gram soil (Table 2). Compared to forest ecosystem, a greater number of spores was found in the rhizosphere soils of cultivable ecosystem. However, paddy rhizosphere harbored lesser number of AMF spores (30±2.89 spores 100 g-1 soil). Among nine soil samples, onion (Narasipuram) rhizosphere scored the highest value of 102±4.41 spores 100 g-1 soil. It was followed by maize rhizosphere sample of TNAU which recorded 93±4.41 spores 100 g-1 soil). Among rhizosphere samples obtained from forest ecosystem, Porasu rhizosphere had more spores (85±2.89 spores 100 g-1 soil) followed by rose wood (81±2.08 spores 100 g-1 soil). Pearson correlation studies revealed negative correlation between spore density and available phosphorus (R2 = 0.91) (Fig. 1a) and positive correlation with glomalin content in the soil (R2 = 0.81) (Figure 1b). Soil AM fungal diversity is indirectly correlated with available phosphorus content. The results of current study confirm the earlier reports that AMF spore population reduces with increase in available phosphorus content. Cell wall protein of glomalin in hyphal thread and spore is responsible for soil aggregation and carbon sequestration. This also governs the total glomalin content of the soil. In this study also, the total glomalin content of various rhizosphere soil samples were found to be positively correlated with AMF spore density. \r\n \r\nD. AM fungal diversity\r\nTotally 698 AM fungal spores were collected from the nine distinct soil samples using the wet sieving and decantation method. This AMF spore population was found to have 12 different AM fungal species with 7 genera. These AMF species include Acaulospora sp, Ambispora leptotica, Glomus hoi, Glomus microcarpum, Glomus ambisporum, Glomus aggregatum, Septoglomus deserticola, Septoglomus constrictum, Paraglomus sp, Funneliformis geosporum, Gigaspora margarita and Gigaspora gigantea. The most abundant genus was Glomus (4 species). It was followed by Gigaspora (2 species), and Septoglomus (2 species). While other genera such as Acaulospora, Ambispora, Funneliformis, and Paraglomus had only one species each. The qualitative analysis of distribution of AMF spores indicated uneven distribution of AM fungal species in the natural habitat. \r\nSimilar to the current study, Glomus, Gigaspora, and Acaulospora were reported to be most common AMF genera (Ambili et al., 2012) in any rhizosphere sample. This may be due to wide range of hosts preferred by Glomus sp (Ming-Yuan et al., 2007). Further, it was also reported that the tiny spores of Glomus and Acaulospora makes them the easiest to reproduce and generate a great quantity of spores at faster rate (Hepper, 2018). Among the rhizosphere, maximum species richness of 7 species was observed in maize collected from TNAU, Orchard samples (S2). Minimum number of species (2 species) was observed in paddy soils collected from TNAU (S3). Maximum occurrence (66.66%) was noticed with Glomus hoi and Glomus microcarpum. They were identified in six samples. The percent occurrence of Gigaspora margarita and Septoglomus constrictum was 55.55%. Among these two, the former was observed only in forest soil samples, while the latter was noticed in both cultivable and forest soils. Other AMF found in forest soils alone is Funneliformis geosporum. AMF of cultivable land alone include Acaulospora sp, Ambispora leptotica and Paraglomus sp which accounted for 11.11% (Table 3). Other AMF with 33.33% occurrence noticed in both cultivable and forest ecosystem were Glomus ambisporum, Glomus aggregatum and Gigaspora gigantea. The results of current study confirm the observations of Helgason et al., (2002); Bhattacharjee and Sharma (2011) who reported Glomus microcarpum as dominant AMF spore in the paddy rhizosphere. Acaulospora foveata and Septoglomus constrictum were the prevalent species amongst forest ecosystem and were tightly tied to edaphic variables, and AMF diversity was shown to be highly related to soil carbon and pH (Wang et al., 2019).\r\n','Kasthuri S., Kalaiselvi T. and Amirtham D. (2022). Occurrence and Distribution of AM Fungi in Cultivable Land and Forest Ecosystem. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 14(3): 445-449.'),(5294,'136','Different Sowing Dates and its Influence on Disease Severity of Pea Rust','Priyanka Garg and Vipul Kumar','74 Different Sowing Dates and its Influence on Disease Severity of Pea Rust Priyanka Garg.pdf','',1,'The study faced a number of difficulties, including the fact that late planting of the crop reduced output and made rust disease more severe, which causes crop loss. As a result, there is a growing awareness of the use of Punjab-89 as a main season variety around the world.\r\nA field experiment was conducted during the Rabi season 2021- 2022 at the Agricultural Research Farm of Lovely Professional University, Jalandhar, Punjab with seven treatments combinations of three sowing times S1 (3rd November), S2 (13th November), S3 (23rd November) in sub plots were tested in randomized block design with three replications. Plant growth parameters like germination percentage, plant height (cm), number of pods/plant, number of grains/pod, pod length (cm), and yield (kg/plot) were recorded significantly. Treatments of foliar spray of neem leaf extract @ 3%(T1), garlic clove extract @ 3% (T2), ginger rhizome extract @ 3% (T3), hexaconazole (Contaf plus 5% SC) @ 0.1% (T4), propiconazole (Tilt 25% EC) @ 0.1% (T5) carbendazim (Bavistin 50%WP) @ 0.2 % (T6) and control (Spray of plain water) (T7), were applied at the first initiation of disease symptoms. Results showed that the percent disease intensity (PDI) was significantly low in propiconazole at 25% (EC), followed by hexaconazole at 5% (SC) and carbendazim at 50% (WP). Plant yield attributes like germination percentage (%), plant height (cm), pod length (cm), number of pods/plant, number of grains/pod and yield (kg/plot) were recorded as significantly superior with crop sown on S1 (3rd November) with propiconazole as compared to others treatments.\r\n','Sowing dates, Treatments, Hexaconazole, carbendazim, Pea Rust','In conclusion, significantly higher yield attributes were observed concerning plant height (cm), no. of pods/plant, pods length(cm), and no. of grains/pods was found with crop sown on S1 (3rd November) in T5-Propiconazole. Similarly, the minimum percent disease intensity was recorded in the S1 crop in T5- propiconazole.','INTRODUCTION\r\nField pea (Pisum sativum L.) is a commercial crop in India, which is also known as the \'Queen of pulses\' (Jain, et al., 2019). It comes under Fabaceae family, is one of the principal legume vegetable crops grown throughout the world (Kumar et al., 2021). Pea is a cool season, hardy leafy annual with climbing or hollow trailing stems (1.8 mt) along with a well-developed tap root system, bearing nitrogen-fixing nodules (Rubatzky et al., 1997). The plant is either dwarf or tall usually 30-150 cm long. Among grain legumes, pea (Pisum sativum L.) is the second most important food legume crop in the world because of its high yield potential (Singh, et al., 2020). 100 gms of green peas contains 0.4 g fat, 14.5 g carbohydrates, 25 mg calcium, protein 5.4 gm, and so on (Dhall, 2017). The important pea-growing countries are Canada, Russia, China, India, and the United States. India occupies the fourth position in the area and 5th position in production. In India, dry peas are cultivated on an area of 616508 ha with a production of 796735 tonnes (FAOSTAT, 2020). Uttar Pradesh, Madhya Pradesh, Jharkhand, Punjab, Himachal Pradesh, West Bengal, Haryana, Bihar, Uttarakhand, Orissa, and Karnataka are major pea-growing states in India (Singh, 2011). Uttar Pradesh accounts for more than half of the country\'s total pea production. Pea grows on all types of soils but well-drained fertile loamy soils are best for the crop. Peas do best in soils having pH of 6.0 to 7.5 (Anonymous (2019). Pea can be grown on all kinds of soils except heavy soils (pea cultivation). The optimum mean temperature for growth is 20-25°C. The crop is damaged more seriously by frost. The optimum and base germination temperatures are around 20 °C and -1.1 °C, respectively (Raveneau et al., 2011). The effect of different dates of sowing on the rust of field peas was studied about weather parameters during crop seasons (Singh, D., et al., 2012). And they observed that the temperature (17.50 and 15.50°C) during the growth of crops sown from November 29 to December 13 crop season was favorable for the development of the disease. Despite the potential for pea crops in agriculture, they still face challenges due to competition from weeds, insect attacks, disease incidence, instability of productivity, and a lack of successful nodulation (Soni & Singh 2019). Singh and Tripathi (2004) have also concluded that rust is one of the major diseases of field pea and it is responsible for substantial losses in grain yield. Many researchers tried to control this disease chemically worldwide (Rahman et al., 2005; Ahmed et al., 2006).\r\n\r\nMATERIALS AND METHODS\r\nThe experiment was carried out at Agricultural Research Farm of Lovely Professional University, Jalandhar, Punjab about 31°14\'43.8\"N and 75°41\'44.1\"E at an altitude of about 252 m above the mean sea level. The experiment was carried out in a randomized block design with three replications. The three sowing times (3rd November, 13th November, and 23rd November) in the main plots and seven treatments viz., neem leaf extract (3%) (T1), garlic clove extract (3%) (T2), ginger rhizome extract (3%) (T3), hexaconazole (Contaf plus 5% SC) @ 0.1% (T4), propiconazole (Tilt 25% EC) @ 0.1% (T5) carbendazim (Bavistin 50%WP) @ 0.2 % (T6) and control (Spray of plain water) - T7, were tested against the yield attributing characters and rust disease of field pea. Land preparation operations included land irrigation, ploughing the land to the depth of 30 cm, disking to the depth of 15 cm, and trowel. Each replication included 3 plots. The seed was sown with a depth of 4-5 cm keeping a distance of 45 cm and 10 cm between the rows and plants respectively. The seed rate of the crop was 35-40 kg/ha. The seeds were covered with soil thoroughly to avoid damage from birds etc. The crop harvesting was done when all plants have tan pods at the bottom and yellow to tan pods in the middle, the grains became hard and dry. For recording observations at different times of sowing with the effect of different treatments and twenty plants in the net plot area were randomly selected and tagged. However, for yield parameter accumulation, twenty plants were randomly selected from the sample rows at regular intervals. The yield was studied after harvesting the crop. The observation recorded during the investigation were tabulated and analyzed statistically to draw a valid conclusion. \r\nPercent Disease Index (PDI). Treatments were imposed at 45 days after sowing by spraying botanicals in each replication and 3 sprays were taken at an interval of 10 days, untreated control was maintained by spraying the distilled water. Observations on disease severity of rust were recorded at 15 days intervals and yield data were obtained. For recording observations, 10 leaves per plant from each plot were selected randomly and intensity was measured by using rust disease severity was recorded by referring to the following 0-9 scale given by Mayee and Datar (1986).\r\nFurther these scales were converted to per cent disease index using formula given by Wheeler (1969) \r\nDisease index (%) = \r\n \r\nRESULT AND DISCUSSION\r\nA. Germination percentage\r\nThe data on the effect of various treatments on the germination percentage of field pea crop has been presented in Table 1, revealing that significantly higher germination was recorded when the crop was sown on S1 (3rd November) significantly superior to the crop sown on S2 (13th November) and S3 (23rd November). Lowest emergence count of S3 (23rd November) sown crop might be due to delaying the sowing date decreasing the germination percentage and increasing the time from germination to initial and final germination.\r\n \r\nB. Yield attributes\r\nThe data are given in Table 2 that sowing time and application of treatments had a significant effect on all growth parameters like plant height (cm), no. of pods plant-1, pods length (cm), and no. of grains pods-1. Significantly higher plant height (cm), no. of pods/plant, pods length(cm), and no. of grains/pods.was found with crop sown on S1 (3rd November) in T5-Propiconazole followed by T4- Hexaconazole, further T6- carbendazim, respectively. Minimum yield parameters were observed in late sown crop (23rd Nov) in T7-Control. This is because favorable temperature and longer time available for the growth and development under earlier sowing could have promoted the growth of the plants and development of the new leaves as against too late sowing crop. Crop obtained a maximum length of the growing period, favorable temperature, and other climatological parameters for the growth characters which helps in promoting better cell division and cell elongation. Similar results related to plant height (cm) as well as pod length (cm) of pea crops were also corroborated by Kumar et al. (2020). Alam et al. 2007, also find similar results considering yield contributing characters (number of pods plant-1, length of pod, and seed pod-1) propiconazole performed better than other treatments. Similar results were corroborated by Ali et al. (2016) in garden pea, as they reported that delay in sowing leads to a decrease in Yield attributes as compared to timely sown crop. Siddique et al. (2002); Tiwari et al. (2014) also resulted that maximum production of Yield attributes with early sowing was observed in pea.\r\nC. Disease Severity\r\nThe data on the percent disease intensity of rust disease was recorded at 15 days intervals and data were obtained in table 3. The data showed that all the treatments were significantly effective over control. Among all the treatments the minimum percent disease intensity was recorded in the S1 crop in T5- propiconazole, followed by T4- hexaconazole, further T6- Carbendazim. The maximum percent disease intensity was recorded in T7- control. Alam et al. (2007), also observed similar findings in which they reported that all fungicides resulted in significantly better performance over control. Considering percent disease index (PDI), propiconazole performed better than other fungicides. The highest PDI of rust disease was observed in the control treatment, whereas the lowest PDI and percent disease reduction over control was recorded in propiconazole may be used for controlling rust disease and increasing seed yield of field pea. Rahman et al., (2005) and Ahmad et al., (2006) also reported that Tilt 25 EC (propiconazole) @ 0.1% was the most effective fungicide against rust disease. Singh and Tripathi (2004) also find a similar result.\r\n','Priyanka Garg and Vipul Kumar (2022). Different Sowing Dates and its Influence on Disease Severity of Pea Rust. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 14(3): 450-453.'),(5295,'136','Effects of Agro-Metrological Parameters on Production and Farm gate Prices of Principal Crops in Bishnupur District of the Valley Region of Manipur','Heisnam Umakanta Singh and Bigyananda Mutum','75 Effects of Agro-Metrological Parameters on Production and Farm gate Prices of Principal Crops in Bishnupur District of the Valley Region of Manipur Heisnam Umakanta Singh.pdf','',1,'For the purpose of developing policy on the part of the government, studies on the impact of agro-meteorological parameters on area, production, yield, and prices are highly relevant. The purpose of this study is to concentrate on how agro-meteorological parameters affect agricultural production in the setting of Bishnupur District of Manipur. For a period of twenty years, secondary data on the state of Manipur\'s area, production, yield, agro-meteorological factors, etc. have been gathered. As a result, crop cultivation has been greatly impacted, which has hampered their growth and ability to produce. Therefore, the right time period should be provided for cultivating either a short-day or long-day crop in order to promote growth, development, and an increase in yield potential and using weather prediction to reduce crop productivity losses that will meet the demands of ensuring food security for a growing population. With the aid of SPSS software, multivariate linear regression models have been used as statistical tools. The main findings of the study show that when production is taken into account as a dependent variable in the Bishnupur District of the valley region of Manipur State, both the area and yield have a significant impact on production in the case of kharif maize, kharif oilseed, kharif paddy, kharif pulses, total maize, total oilseed, total paddy, and total pulses. In the case of kharif maize and kharif paddy, it is found that the temperature, humidity, and production have a substantial impact on farm gate price when farmgate is regarded as the dependent variable. The result reveals that with the consideration of dependent variable i.e. the area, yield, temperature, rainfall and humidity as it show significant on the production of various crops cultivated under Bishnupur district of Manipur.','kharif maize, kharif oilseed, kharif paddy, kharif pulses, total maize, total oilseed, total paddy, total pulses, farmgate, regression analysis','This study gave us the chance to learn in-depth information about dependent variable and framgate prices of various results in respect to its production technique as well as its impact on production yield of several crops cultivated under Bishnupur district of Manipur. According to the aforementioned regression study, when production is taken into account as the dependent variable, the area, yield, temperature, rainfall, and humidity have a substantial impact on output. However, the agro-meteorological elements, such as temperature, rainfall, humidity, etc., only sometimes have a substantial impact on productivity. According to the aforementioned regression analysis, the area, production, yield, temperature, and humidity all significantly affect farm-gate price when it is taken into account as the dependent variable. However, sophisticated statistical research is advised for explaining the aforementioned effect. So that the production of several crop in respect to its yield can be cultivated according to the aforementioned data analysis that will adds the cropping timing at right period.','INTRODUCTION\r\nAbout 80 per cent of the state population is engaged in agriculture and allied activities. Hence, agriculture plays an important role in the social and economic life of people in Manipur, and will continue to do so in the foreseeable future. The gross cropped area is 350,290 ha, which account for 15. 24 per cent of the total land areas. About 65. 93 per cent of the gross cropped area is under rice cultivation. The mean cropping intensity of the state is 145. 66 per cent. The total food grain production in Manipur during 2014–15 was 594. 28 thousand tonnes from an area of 292,950 ha. However, agriculture sector in Manipur is facing the consequences of climate change (Gommes 2006, Jones et al. 2003). Climate change is a reality and an increasing trend in temperature, precipitation and emission of greenhouse gases has been observed in Manipur. Trend analysis of weather variables in Imphal under National Innovations on Climate Resilient Agriculture (NICRA) revealed that the mean annual maximum temperature (1954–2014) has been increasing (0.1 degree C per decade). The mean annual minimum temperature has also increased significantly (0. 3 degree C per decade).Total annual precipitation is expected to increase throughout the state. As evident from the last 30 years’ climate data analysis, precipitation rate in northern parts is expected to increase by ≥19 per cent. Climatic factors like rainfall and extreme temperature, which are beyond the tolerance capacity of a species, may lead to inevitable distribution changes. Evidences show that many plant species shift their geographical habitats to combat regional climatic variation (Cao Juan, 2021) (Chapagain et al., 2009). Many species are unable to acclimatize to the pace of climatic variations. So, these changes may increase the extinction risk. Climate change alters water availability and the resulting water stress may affect crop productivity. Particularly, under rain-fed ecosystems, altered climatic conditions can expose crops to drought like situation. Timely availability of quality seed/planting material of recommended climate-ready crop varieties and irrigation water are two most important requirements for CRA in hill (Moonena et al. 2002) (Feng, Zhaozhong 2019). Market-driven secondary agricultural activities are of prime importance for sustaining the livelihood of the farming community through additional income generation. Various options for secondary agricultural activities include mushroom production, bee-keeping and honey production, primary processing of horticultural crops, enriched vermin composting, etc. The present investigation was carried out with the following objectives: To find out the effects of area, yield and agro-meteorological parameters in determining the production. To find out the effects of area, production, yield and agro-meteorological parameters in determining farmgate price.\r\nMATERIAL AND METHODOLOGY\r\nA proper methodology is an inevitable and important component of a research study for getting successful research findings. To fulfill the objectives of the present study, a reasonably appropriate methodology has been adopted. In this chapter, the methodology adopted for the present study has been presented under the following heads.\r\n1. Study area and period of study. \r\n2. Sampling design.\r\n3. Collection of data. \r\n4. Analytical technique.\r\nSelection of State. Manipur State of INDIA has been purposively selected.\r\nSelection of Region. Valley region have been purposively selected.\r\nSelection of Districts. Bishnupur district is selected.\r\nCollection of data. Purely time series secondary data have been collected regarding area, production, farm prices and productivity of principal crops and agro-meteorological parameters of Manipur State for a period of last 20 years data (1998-2017).\r\nAnalytical Techniques. The study is based on Regression Analysis following Multiple Linear Regression Model.\r\nRegression. The word regression is used to denote estimations of predictions of the averaged value of one variable of a specific of other variable. The estimations is done by means of suitable equations, derived on the basis of available bivariate data. Such an equation is known as a regression equations and its geometrical representation is called a regression curve.\r\nIn linear regressions (or simple regressions) the relationship between the variables is assumed to be linear. The estimations of y (say, y¢) is obtained from an equations of the form \r\n y¢ - ybar = byx(x-xbar) (1)\r\nand the estimations of x(say, x¢) from another equation (usually different from the former of the form\r\n x¢- xbar = bxy(y-ybar) (2)\r\nequations 1 is known as regressions equations of y on x, and equation 2 as regression equations of x on y. the coefficient byx appearing in the regression equations of y on x is known as regression coefficient of y on x. Similarly, bxy is called the regression coefficient of x on y. the geometrical representations of linear regression equations 1 and 2 are known as regression line these line are best fitting straight line obtaining by the method of least square \r\nMultiple Linear Regression Model. In order to find out the major agro-meteorological parameters affecting area, production and productivity of principal crops in the study area, a multiple linear regression model is used.\r\nThe general model of the Multiple Linear Regression is as follows –\r\nGeneral linear regression model for ‘k’ explanatory variables (xi\'s) and one dependent variable, y for sample is given by \r\n y = b_o+∑_(i=1 )^k▒b_i x_i +e_i\r\nwhere b_0is the intercept, b_1, b_2……,b_k are partial regression coefficients of the variablesx_1, x_2, ...., x_krespectively and e_iis the residual which is supposed to follow i.i.d. N(0, σ2). By ordinary least square method one can find the values of a, b_1, b_2…,b_k.\r\nSignificance of the model\r\nThe significance of the regression model was tested using F statistic. Here the null hypotheses was set as,\r\n H0: β = 0\r\nTest statistic \r\nWhere, \r\n Regression sum of squares (RSS) = \r\n Error sum of squares (ESS) = \r\nRESULT AND DISCUSSION\r\nBishnupur\r\nFrom Table 1 the main results of the study show that in Bishnupur district in the valley region of Manipur state, when production is considered as a dependent variable, it is observed that both area and yield have a significant impact on production in kharif maize (0.997), kharif oilseeds (0.986), kharif rice (0.964), kharif legumes (0.992), rabi legumes (0.996) total maize (0.994), total oilseeds (0.701), total paddy (0.997), total legumes (0.996), this result was in similar with the finding of Lekshmi et al. (2013); Smith et al. (2018), stated that the accounting for fluctuations in agro-meteorological parameter readings into agriculture, helped to get better yield and quality of produce as well as showed that estimates of likely future adaptations were an essential ingredient in impact and vulnerability assessments impacted system to adapt. Both area and temperature have a significant impact on production in the case of rabi legumes, while looking at the dependent variables on the farm, it is observed that both temperature and production have a significant impact on the farm-gate price for Kharif maize (0.756), and only humidity has a significant impact on the farm-gate -Price in the case of Kharif oilseeds (0.683), Rabi oilseeds (0.782), Kharif legumes (0.775), but the area has a significant impact on the producer price in Case of kharif rice (0.909) and temperature has a significant impact on the producer price in the case of legumes Rabi (0.568) as shown in table 3.2. Liming Ye et al. (2012); Zhou and Ismaeel (2020) also stated that climate change was now affecting global agriculture and food production worldwide, whole rice and legumes and understanding the current relationship between agriculture and climate might help interpret how future climate change will affect local crops and also take necessary measures. Also in Table 2 both moisture and production have a significant impact on the farm price in the case of total corn acreage and temperature has a significant Influence on the operating price in the case of all oilseeds. Similar finding was observed by Lathika et al. (2005); Roy et al. (2018); Rosenzweig et al. (2012); Chattopadhyay et al. (2020) showed that overall climate is changing particularly in respect of temperature over the Indian region. Besides, climatic variability leading to extreme events like drought, flood, occurrence heavy rainfall etc results in decreasing the production yield of various crops throughout the country. \r\n','Heisnam Umakanta Sin and Bigyananda Mutum (2022). Effects of Agro-Metrological Parameters on Production and Farm gate Prices of Principal Crops in Bishnupur District of the Valley Region of Manipur. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 14(3): 454-457.'),(5296,'136','Phenotyping of qDTY QTL introgressed Backcrossed Inbred Lines (BILs) of Rice for Drought Tolerance','G. Nithishkumar, R. Suresh, R. Pushpa and M. Raju','76 Phenotyping of qDTY QTL introgressed Backcrossed Inbred Lines (BILs) of Rice for Drought Tolerance G. Nithishkumar.pdf','',1,'Drought is the major abiotic stress that affects rice cultivation under rainfed areas. In India, drought and water stress affects rice production in 17 Mha accounts for about 15.0 percent yield reduction. Improvement of varieties for drought tolerance is the crucial and challenging task in rice. In the present study, 120 BILs along with 3 parents viz., ADT 45, Apo and Way Rarem were screened for vegetative stage drought tolerance under managed water stress condition at Tamil Nadu Rice Research Institute (TRRI) to identify genotypes with drought tolerance ability. The main challenge of this study The results revealed that among 120 BILs, 39 were found to be highly tolerant for vegetative stage drought stress while 29 BILs were susceptible. The recipient parent ADT 45 showed moderate drought tolerance under field conditions. Three BILs viz., W 18, A 52, I 45 were promising with best scores for leaf rolling, leaf drying, leaf senescence and drought recovery indicating that these BILs are highly tolerant to vegetative stage drought stress. The BIL W171 has favourable drought scores and it also recovers rapidly after re-watering. Eight BILs viz., W 97, W 195, I 39, I 40, I 74, I 76, I 92 have better drought scores but recovery rate is slower.','Field screening, drought stress, leaf rolling score, leaf drying score, drought recovery score','The results derived from the present field study on screening of BILs for drought tolerance revealed that 39 genotypes present in cluster II were found tolerant to drought while 29 genotypes present in cluster V were susceptible. The recipient parent ADT 45 exhibited moderate drought tolerance under field stress conditions. Based on all the physio-morphological traits, three BILs viz., W 18, A 52 and I 45 exhibited best scores for leaf rolling, leaf drying, leaf senescence and drought recovery indicating that these BILs are high tolerant to vegetative stage drought stress. Hence, these genotypes may be concentrated and promoted as drought tolerant cultures. The BIL W 171 has very high drought scores however it recovers fast after re-watering. This genotype may be useful to study the physiological mechanism and inter relationship among the drought tolerant traits. ','INTRODUCTION\r\nRice (Oryza sativa L.) is the major staple food crop that provides daily calorie intake for nearly half of the world’s human population particularly in Asia (Sahebi et al., 2018). According to UN report, the world human population is estimated to reach 8 billion and the demand for rice is estimated to be 2000 million metric tonnes by 2030 (FAO, 2016-17). To meet such increase in overall demand, there is a need to promote yield and productivity of rice in wide range of environments. Rainfed rice accounts for around 45% of world’s rice area but accounts for only one-quarter of total rice production (Maclean et al., 2002). Drought is the major yield reduction factor on such rainfed rice cultivation (Kumar et al., 2014; Garg and Bhattacharya 2017). It reduced the agricultural productivity by 20 to 40 per cent in rainfed areas (Pandit et al., 2016; Barik et al., 2018). It affects the crop at both vegetative as well as reproductive stage. Drought at both stages is detrimental and severely affects the yield and productivity (Bunnag and Pongthai 2013). Hence there is a need to identify and develop elite genotypes that perform well under severe drought stress. \r\nRice plants respond to drought by altering morphological, physiological, biochemical and metabolic responses. It includes reduction in plant water content, reduced cell size, stomatal closure, reduction in gaseous exchange and disruption of enzyme-catalyzed biochemical processes (Ozga et al., 2017; Islam et al., 2018). Therefore, selection using morpho-physiological and metabolic traits may be effective for drought tolerance breeding in rice (Zaharieva et al., 2001; Fukai et al., 1995).\r\nSurvival and yield potential of rice crop under drought stress mainly depends on its ability to maintain plant water status under such water deficit conditions (Blum, 2009). Leaf rolling is one of the visible physiological response indicators to plant water deficit. It is an adaptive response to water deficit which helps in maintaining favorable water balance within plant tissues. The genetics of rice leaf rolling under vegetative stage drought stress was studied by Singh and Mackil (1991) and they reported major gene for leaf rolling. During vegetative stage drought stress, leaf rolling and leaf drying are the good selection criteria for screening and identification of genotypes for drought tolerance (Farooq et al., 2010; Singh et al., 2012; Chang, 1974; De data et al., 1988). The capacity of a plant to recover from drought was regarded as more important than its drought tolerance (Maji, 1994). Chang, (1974); De Datta (1975); Gana et al. (2011) viewed drought recovery as the determining factor of grain yield under stress. Malabuyoc et al. (1985) also stated that poor recovery from stress could be a major factor in decreased grain yield.\r\nHence, the present study was taken up to identify the genotypes that perform well under vegetative stage drought stress based on physio – morphological traits such as leaf rolling, leaf drying, leaf senescence and drought recovery. \r\nMATERIALS AND METHODS\r\nThe experimental material comprised of 120 qDTY QTL introgressed Backcrossed Inbred Lines (BILs)derived from the crosses ADT 45*3/Apo, ADT 45*3/Way Rarem and ADT 45*2/Apo//ADT 45*2/Way Rarem. ADT 45 is the recipient parent with high yield, whereas Apo and Way Rarem are drought tolerant donor parents for several qDTY QTLs. Field screening for drought tolerance of BILs along with the parents was carried out at Tamil Nadu Rice Research Institute, Aduthurai (Latitude 11oN, Longitude 79.30oE) during summer(March – April) 2022 under managed water stress condition. \r\nThe field experiment was conducted in well pulverized upland field in order to have a check on soil moisture status. The BILs along with the parents viz., ADT 45, Apo, Way Rarem and the susceptible check IR 36 were evaluated through randomized complete block design in two replications. In each replication, the seeds were directly sown in dry soil in 2 rows of 1.5 m length each with the spacing of 20 cm between the rows. Recommended agronomic practices were carried out for proper crop maintenance. The crop was irrigated normally up to 45 days after sowing. On 45th day of sowing irrigation was withheld for a period of 15 days (45th day to 60th day) to impose water stress. During stress period, soil moisture content was monitored through periodical soil sampling at 30 cm depth. Leaf rolling was observed from 7to 10 days after the stress period in the susceptible check IR 36 and complete drying was observed on 14th day after stress. Scores for leaf rolling, leaf senescence and leaf drying were recorded on 15th day of stress period and IRRI Standard Evaluation System for rice, 2013 (IRRI-SES 2013) was followed to score the genotypes. Observations were recorded during mid - day between 12.00 to 2.00 PM. The crop was irrigated on 16th day after water stress and drought recovery score was taken at 7 days after re-watering. The observations were recorded on five randomly selected plants from each genotype and in each replication the mean data from five plants were used for statistical analysis. Statistical analysis was performed using softwares such as ‘R’ to analyze ANOVA and ‘STAR’ for cluster diagram. \r\nRESULTS AND DISCUSSION\r\nThe results of ANOVA revealed that high significant difference between the genotypes for leaf rolling and drought recovery scores. Similar results were obtained by Anik et al. (2021); Verma et al. (2019); Yue et al. (2005). However, there is no significant difference between the genotypes for leaf drying and leaf senescence scores. However contrary to that, significant difference in leaf drying and leaf senescence and non-significant difference in leaf rolling was obtained by Pavithra et al. (2022).\r\nThe rice genotypes can be categorized according to the Standard Evaluation System for Rice (IRRI – SES, 2013). Under vegetative stage stress, the genotypes showed variations in visual symptoms with score 1 to score 9 for leaf rolling, leaf drying, leaf senescence and drought recovery. The drought tolerant donor parents Apo and Way Rarem showed normal growth without any leaf rolling or drying whereas, the susceptible cultivar IR 36 extensive rolling and drying symptoms. All the 120 genotypes were compared with tolerant (Apo, Way Rarem) and susceptible (IR 36) genotypes to estimate the degree of drought tolerance, accordingly the 120 BILs were categorized into highly tolerant, tolerant, moderately tolerant/susceptible, susceptible and highly susceptible genotypes.\r\nThe results showed that the leaf rolling score ranges from 0.33 to 9.0, leaf drying score from 0.50 to 7.67. Leaf senescence ranges from 1.0 to 9.0 and drought recovery score ranges from 1.0to 7.0.\r\nBlum (1988) found that delayed leaf rolling under drought stress is an essential selection criterion for drought avoidance. Leaf rolling was thought to be a response to leaf water potential and correlated with leaf water potential of the plants. Delayed leaf rolling was thought to be favorable trait in rice (Maji, 1994). In the present study, 5 genotypes recorded the mean leaf rolling score of 0-1, 12 genotypes with the score 1-3, 26 genotypes with the score 3-5, 35 genotypes with the score between 5-7 and 45 genotypes were with the score between 7-9 (Table 4). The BILs W 195, I 39 and I 74 and also the donor parents Apo and Way Rarem showed no leaf rolling symptoms (Score 0-1) and hence they are highly tolerant to vegetative stage drought stress. Twelve BILs were tolerant to leaf rolling with shallow V-shaped folding. Most of the inter-mated BILs with more than one qDTY QTLs such as I 45, I 40, I 33, I 12, I 32, I 76 and I 92 falls under this category. Hence, it is evident that combination of qDTY QTLs contributes to better tolerance to drought than the single QTL. Twenty-six BILs were moderately tolerant to drought, 34 were susceptible and 45 genotypes were highly susceptible to drought stress. The recurrent parent ADT 45 was moderately susceptible with the leaf rolling score of 5-7. Most of the Way Rarem BILs such as W171, W216 exhibited high leaf rolling and hence they are highly susceptible to drought. This could be due to the non-effectiveness of single QTL (qDTY 12.1) for vegetative stage drought stress under this environment. \r\nField screening results for leaf drying showed that two BILs were with the score of 0-1, 21 with the score of 1-3, 55 with the score of 3-5, 37 with the score of 5-7 and 3 BILs with the score of 7-9. The BILs W 99 and I 45 shows no drying symptoms indicating that these genotypes are highly tolerant to drought stress. The donor parent Apo also falls under the same category. 21 BILs viz., W11, W16, W18, W43, W84, W89, W94, W96, W97, W106, W117, W195, W199, A16, A22, A35, A52, I39, I40, I74, I76 and I92 are tolerant to drought stress showing slight tip drying. The donor parent Way Rarem also falls under the same category. Majority of the BILs exhibited moderate resistance for leaf drying. 31 Way Rarem derived BILs, 17 Apo derived BILs and 7 inter-mated BILs falls under this category. Thirty-seven BILs along with the recipient parent ADT 45 shows more than two-third of the leaves fully dried and hence susceptible to drought. The BILs A24, A83 and A89 were fully dried and apparently dead indicating that they are highly susceptible to leaf drying.\r\nLeaf senescence score showed that 60 BILs exhibited mean score values between 1-3, 51 BILs with the score of 4-6 and 9 BILs with the score of 7-9. Most of the BILs have leaf senescence score less than 3 indicating that these genotypes retain their natural green color and rate of senescence is slow. All the three parents exhibited late and slow leaf senescence. BILs such as W 18-8-7, W 7-4-1, W 7-4-2 and W 7-4-4 exhibited intermediate leaf senescence with yellowing of upper leaves alone. Nine BILs viz., W 164, W 168, W 171, W 172, W 235, W 242, W 248, A 24 and A 83 exhibited early and fast leaf senescence. No inter-mated BILs exhibited score more than 5 indicating that they are better adopted to drought when compared to single cross BILs of Apo and Way Rarem. \r\nBased on drought recovery score the BILs were grouped as follows: 25 BILs with the score of 1-2, 46 BILs with the score of 3-4, 36 BILs with the score of 5-6 and 11 BILs with the score of 7. The results clearly showed that no BILs have a score of 9 indicating that at least 20 percent of plants get recovered from drought in every genotype. In 27 BILs, more than 80 percent of the plants got recovered and in these genotypes, apparently the rolling and drying symptoms were very minimum with 0 to 3 score. Drought tolerant parents Apo and Way Rarem also falls under this category since they did not exhibit any leaf rolling or drying symptoms during drought stress and therefore, these genotypes quickly regained without any impact of drought stress. In 46 BILs, recovery percentage was between 70 to 90 per cent indicating that these BILs are tolerant to drought stress. Thirty six BILs along with the parent ADT 45 showed 40 to 70 percent recovery and hence they are moderately tolerant / moderately susceptible to drought. 11 BILs showed susceptibility by having 20 to 40 percent recovery from drought.\r\nCluster analysis was performed with the drought scores of 120 BILs and 3 parents. Based on the variation, the 120 BILs and the three parents are grouped into five clusters by using Ward’s method. Number of genotypes in each cluster is given in the Table 8. \r\nDistribution pattern of dendrogram (Fig. 1) showed that Cluster I contains 26 genotypes which include recipient parent ADT 45 and 25 BILs viz., W 47, W 60, W 61, W 84, W 90, W 92, W 94, W 96, W 100, W 103, W 115, W 177, W 180, A 22, A 75, A 14, A 80, A 99, I 69, I 85, W 7-4-1, W 18-8-7, I 127, I 140 and I 172. Cluster II contains 25 genotypes which includes drought tolerant parents Apo and Way Rarem and the BILs W 11, W 16, W 18, W 24, W 26, W 27, W 34, W 39, W 95, W 187, W 191, A 43, A 88, A 16, A 35, A 52, A 70, A 81, A 82, A 95, I 12, I 33 and I 45. Genotypes in these cluster are better performing genotypes under drought stress. Cluster III and V contains large number of genotypees while cluster IV contain least number of genotypes.\r\nMean performance values of five clusters for all the drought scores were computed to evaluate the superiority of the clusters, which is useful in improvement of drought tolerance. Based on which the genotypes with best drought tolerance ability are clustered in cluster II. Genotypes in cluster II are highly tolerant to leaf drying, leaf senescence and tolerant to leaf rolling and have highest drought recovery. The next best cluster was IV which comprised of genotypes with preferable scores for leaf rolling, leaf drying and leaf senescence and the recovery from stress was intermediate in these genotypes. Majority of the inter-mated BILs are grouped into this cluster IV. Cluster I contain genotypes with moderate leaf rolling and drying and moderate drought recovery percentage. Genotypes in cluster III showed high leaf rolling and drying with moderate drought recovery. Genotypes in cluster V are highly susceptible to drought with poor leaf rolling, leaf drying and leaf senescence scores. \r\n','G. Nithishkumar, R. Suresh, R. Pushpa and M. Raju (2022). Phenotyping of qDTY QTL introgressed Backcrossed Inbred Lines (BILs) of Rice for Drought Tolerance. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 14(3): 458-464.'),(5297,'136','Leaf Propagation in Guava (Psidium guajava L.)- An Unique Approach for Producing Quality and Nematode-free Planting Materials','Vikram Choudhary, C. Indu Rani, M. Djanaguirama, J. Auxcilia and R. Neelavathi','77 Leaf Propagation in Guava (Psidium guajava L.)- An Unique Approach for Producing Quality and Nematode-free Planting Materials Vikram Choudhary.pdf','',4,'Guava is the fourth most important fruit crop grown in India. In the existing commercial propagation method of ground layering/stooling, root knot the nematode is transferred through soil media along with planting materials and it is becoming the serious threat for guava orchards. The production of nematode free planting materials without carrying from the infested soil from mother plants is very essential for the sustainable production of guava. A study was undertaken to develop a new propagation method for producing nematode free planting materials in guava. The fourth mature leaf from the shoot tipin guava cv. Lucknow-49, Allahabad Safeda and Arka Kiran were collected in the early morning hours during the month of November 2021. The leaves were washed with running water followed by quick dip of the petiole portion in 1% Bavistin followed by dipping in 500, 1,000 and 1,500 ppm of Indole-3-Butyric Acid (IBA) for one and two minutes. The treated guava leaves were then planted in 50 cavity protrays containing well decomposed cocopeat (pH7) mixed with Pseudomonas fluorescens and Trichoderma viride and placed in a small polytunnel under shade netat a temperature of 28-30oC and relative humidity of 75±5% were maintained which is congenial for rooting. The leaves of Lucknow-49 rooted when treated with 1,500 ppm IBA dipped for 1 and 2 minutes with rooting percentage of 70% and 72% respectively. These rooted leaves were further treated with benzyl adenine at different concentration (100, 200, 300, 400 and 500 ppm) for better shoot formation. Rooted leaf treated with 300 ppm BA for one minute recorded better result as it took less time for shoot formation (28.40 days) and survival percentage of 80% was recorded.','Guava, leaf, propagation, IBA, BA, shade net and polytunnel','From the present study, it is concluded that fourth mature leaves from shoot tip dipped in 1,500 ppm IBA for 2 minutes (T7) and rooted leaves dipped in 300 ppm BA for 1 minute (T8) showed significant effect on rooting and shoot formation respectively. The highest rooting percentage of 72% was obtained from T7 which was recorded on 30thday after planting whereas survival percentage of 80% was obtained from rooted leaves treated with T8 which can be further improved by maintaining accurate temperature and humidity along with the good quality of irrigation water. This technique easily fulfills the quality and quantity of planting materials within a short period of time. As compared to other methods, it is simpler, less labor-intensive, true to type, early bearing, economical and free of nematodes.','INTRODUCTION\r\nGuava (Psidium guajava L.) also known as “Apple of tropics” is one of the most common and popular fruits grown in tropical and sub-tropical regions of India. Owing to its luscious, wider adaptability, prolific bearing and high remunerative in nature it is popular across the world and also due to its availability round the year and reasonable price it is called as Poor man’s apple (Das et al., 1995; Brijesh et al., 2014).\r\nIn guava, various drawbacks are reported in conventional methods of propagation (air-layering, stooling, ground layering). Seed propagated plants have various disadvantages such as a long juvenile phase, lack of true-to-type progeny, genetic heterogeneity, segregation and recombination of characters (Martínez-De-Lara et al., 2004; Soni et al., 2016). In asexual method of propagation namely stooling, ground layering, budding, grafting, stem cutting, air layering and inarching are still not commercially feasible because of various disadvantages. In ground layering and stooling, there are more possibilities that soil media might carry nematodes along with the planting materials. When these planting materials are used, it becomes very difficult to manage nematode as it rapidly spreads and leads to heavy loss in production (Poornima et al., 2016). In case of budding (Gupta and Mehrotra (1985, Kaundal et al., 1987), air layering (Sharma et al., 1978; Manna et al., 2001) and inarching (Mukherjee and Majumder 1983) it has been reported that all these methods are time-consuming, wax and wane in success percentage, laborious, expensive, absence of tap root system and uneconomical (Soni et al., 2016; Singh et al., 2019). Stem cutting is an effortless method but due to guava stem being hard to root this is also not suitable therefore leaves can be an option for propagation. As root formation in the leaf is a key step in fruit crops’ vegetative propagation. The mechanism of root development could be divided into three stages: root induction, root initiation and root protrusion and all these stages are regulated through auxins. Owing to natural auxin synthesis in leaves and stem tip leading to more chances for root formation in leaf (Ljung et al., 2001). Hence, the objective of this experiment was framed in such a way to develop a new commercial method of clonal multiplication in guava.\r\nMATERIALS AND METHODS\r\nThe research was carried out at Horticultural College and Research Institute, TNAU, Coimbatore, Tamil Nadu during 2020-21 in a Factorial Completely Randomized Design with five replications (10 leaves per replication) and two factors (F1: Varieties and F2: Plant growth regulators at different concentration).\r\nMother block for each variety (Lucknow 49, Allahabad Safeda and Arka Kiran) are maintained within the premises of nursery. Mother block is one of the most important inputs which decides the fate of production efficiency of fruit orchard. They are planted at a closer spacing of 2x1m in order to accommodate more number of plants and to get continuous supply of propagation material. These plants are severely pruned once in a year in the month of February to keep them in vegetative phase to produce enough shoots for propagation purposes. They are maintained rigorously so as to keep the plants healthy and free of diseases and insect pests. \r\nLeaves for the purpose of this experiment were collected from the mother block mentioned above. 50 leaves from guava cv. Lucknow-49, Allahabad Safeda and Arka Kiran were collected and used in this study.\r\nThe 4th mature leaves were collected from the shoot tip of current season growth during morning hours which were then washed under running water followed by a quick dip at 1% Bavistin solution prior to planting. The petiole portion of leaves was dipped in 500, 1,000 and 1,500 ppm of Indole butyric acid (IBA) solutions for 1 and 2 minutes. After dipping, the leaves were planted in 50 cavity (4.5 cm top diameter, 3.2 cm bottom diameter, 4 cm depth, 50 ml capacity) protrays containing well-decomposed cocopeat (pH7) mixed with Pseudomonas fluorescens & Trichoderma viride, and kept in a small polytunnel under shade net. Leaves were irrigated alternately using as prayer and frequent inspection was done to check for any kind of deformity. From the 30th day of planting, root formation was observations on root formation in leaf petiole were recorded. The rooted leaves were then dipped in 100, 200, 300, 400 and 500 ppm of benzyl adenine (BA) solution. The treated rooted leaves were transferred into polybags containing a potting mixture of red soil, sand and farmyard manure (2:1:1). Irrigation was done by sprayer when it is required.\r\nFor root formation on leaves, data observed were number of days taken for rooting, rooting percentage and number of roots per leaf and root length (cm). For shoot formation, data observed were number of days taken for shoot formation, shoot formation (%), shoot length (cm) and survival percentage (%).\r\nFactor 1\r\nV1: Lucknow 49\r\nV2: Allahabad Safeda\r\nV3: Arka Kiran\r\nFactor 2\r\nG1: 500 ppm IBA\r\nG2: 1,000 ppm IBA\r\nG3: 1,500 ppm IBA\r\nRESULTS AND DISCUSSION\r\nGuava is a crop that is conventionally propagated by stooling but due to compromise in the quality of planting material as well as nematode infection, leaf propagation which has not been commonly used in fruit crops was given a trial in this experiment in order to get a perception on its success rate that can be a novel technique for producing a good quality planting materials as observed by Neelavathi et al., 2021. The present experiment was carried out at a shade net where the optimum temperature (28-30oC) and humidity (75±5%) required for successful rooting of the leaves were maintained by making a tunnel inside the shade net using polyethylene sheet of 200 microns (Fig.1)without which required humidity was not possible to maintain under only a shade net. Rymbai and Satyanarayana Reddy (2010) also reported that climate and media plays a crucial role in rooting. Irrigation water also plays an important role in the success of this experiment as the salt content in the water of Tamil Nadu is high which leads to the burning of leaves. Therefore, Siruvani water (The world’s 2nd tastiest water) was used for irrigating the leaves on an alternate basis with the help of a sprayer as the leaves are very brittle at the initial stage of propagation. In order to maintain the humidity of the experimental site, water was sprayed on the ground as well as the wall of the shade net. The success of the propagated leaves was being judged by visual appearance. The change in colour of the midrib and vein to yellow was observed after 15 days of planting (Fig. 2). For this experiment, 4th matured leaf from shoot tip from three different varieties were taken and treated with different concentrations of IBA. Out of these three varieties taken for the study, only Lucknow 49 treated with 1,500 ppm of IBA (dipped for 1 and 2 minutes) rooted in 33.80 days and 32.60 days respectively and the rest of the leaves dried (Table 1), which may be due to the varietal differences, lower concentrations of exogenous IBA and the presence of auxin inhibitor biochemical compounds (Lomax et al. 1995) and also due to the lack of endogenous auxin synthesis. Treatment duration highly stimulates cambial activity thereby resulting in the mobilization of reserve food material to the site from the leaf to the petiole through the midrib and veins that enhance earlier root formation (Shahzad et al., 2019). IBA is a non-toxic auxin (Hartmann et al., 2002) and effective in encouraging the rooting of a large number of plant species (Teklehaimanot et al., 1996).\r\nHigher rooting percentage was observed in T7 (72%) followed by T6 (70%). Root length and number of roots per leaf were measured at 30th and 60th day of planting and has been found to differ due to the treatment duration as well the maturity stage of leaf i,e., 4th mature leaves from shoot tip. Survival percentage recorded the highest in T7 (82.15%) followed by T6 (79.38%). Interaction between auxin and cytokinin plays an important role in root and shoot regeneration. The fourth matured was leaf dipped in 1500 ppm IBA for 2 minutes (T7) recorded highest root length (19.08 cm) and number of roots per leaf (31.58) on 60th day after planting (Table 2, Fig. 3). Similar result was observed in grape cutting at higher concentrations (Shahzad et al., 2019). A tremendous increase in the root length and number of roots per leaf was observed after 30th day of planting as the rooted leaves were carefully uprooted from protrays and treated with BA for initiation of shoot formation. The rooted leaves were treated with 200 and 300 ppm of BA dipped for one minute. Cytokinin such as BA increases biosynthesis of nucleic acids and mitotic activity in apices of buds those responsible for shoot formation (Chvojka 1964). Higher concentration of BA (300 ppm) was found to produce better result in terms of time taken for shoot formation (28.40 days after treatment), shoot formation percentage (83.33%), number of shoot per rooted leaves (4) and survival percentage (80%) (Table 3). Exogenous application of BA promotes shoot regeneration (Cornejo-Martin et al., 1979). Similar studies were conducted using cytokinin in Rudbeckia laciniata,Ruta graveolens, Gratiola officinalis which plays an important role in shoot formation (Custers 1986). The ratio of auxin-cytokinin I s an important factor to be considered for root and shoot formation as the leaves were initially treated with IBA which were further treated with BA on 30th day of planting might be the reason for its interaction in formation of successful root and shoot propagated through guava leaf. Exogenous application of BA promoted shoot formation but this action appeared to depend on the presence of other regulators in the medium and also on the plant species used (Cornejo-Martin et al., 1979; Van Aartrijk et al., 1985).\r\n','Vikram Choudhary, C. Indu Rani, M. Djanaguirama, J. Auxcilia and R. Neelavathi (2022). Leaf Propagation in Guava (Psidium guajava L.)- An Unique Approach for Producing Quality and Nematode-free Planting Materials. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 14(3): 465-469.'),(5298,'136','Attitude and Acceptance of Farmers for Agroforestry in Selected Blocks of West Singhbhum District, Jharkhand, India','Tanu Shree Lakra, M.S. Malik, P.R. Oraon, B.C. Oraon, Jai Kumar and S.S. Das','78 Attitude and Acceptance of Farmers for Agroforestry in Selected Blocks of West Singhbhum District, Jharkhand, India Tanu Shree Lakra.pdf','',4,'The agroforestry practice is intervention of forestry/fruit tree species on cultivated lands for achieving multiple benefits like, fuel wood, fodder, timber, fruit etc. The main objective of this study was to investigate and analyze the reasons for non-adoption of agroforestry by farmers and the problems being faced by them in West Singhbhum district of Jharkhand. A sample of 320 respondents from four randomly selected blocks was interviewed through a structured interview schedule in person and the data were analyzed. It was concluded that the farmers were not adopting agroforestry mainly due to the lack of awareness about the tree benefits. They considered that the trees compete with agricultural crops for water and nutrients uptake and degrade their farmlands etc. The villagers may be educated and convinced with respect to adoption of agroforestry through exposure visits of successful agroforestry models for increasing their monetary benefits. Most of the farmers are found to agree that agroforestry is an option to meet the food, fodder and fuel requirements. Literacy also has bearing on adoption of agroforestry. The response of the respondents that practice of agroforestry contributed to improve vegetation in the area is highly beneficial for restoration of agro-environment.','adoption, agricultural crops, agroforestry, constraints, farmlands','From this study it is found that farmers have been benefitted by adoption of agroforestry in terms of fodder, fuelwood and improvement of soil condition. The literacy has been also observed as one of important factor of farmers to put this level under agroforestry practices. The agroforestry supports farmers during failure of crops through livestock production system and fruit trees. The agroforestry supports farmers income during total crop failure, improves the micro climate of the area and performance of trees and agricultural crops in agroforestry is better than the pure agriculture or forestry.\r\nThe important benefits of agroforestry which the respondents perceived were becoming \'self-reliant\' in terms of fuel, fodder, timber and other minor forest produce (MFPs) improves the micro climate of the area and performance of trees and agricultural crops in agroforestry is better than pure agriculture or forestry based on rank order of the tested parameters, respectively. These benefits were rather visual in nature which the respondents noticed.\r\n','INTRODUCTION\r\nIn India the agriculture has been the major land use practice to meet the requirement of food grains and vegetables production for human consumption. The economic conditions of farmers also depend on agriculture, but in most of region of India agriculture practice cannot be throughout the year. As a result their economy and livelihood are affected. To have multiple gain from agriculture field the practice of agroforestry has a support system to agriculture during lean period as in this interactions of tree component (timber, fuelwood, fruit trees etc.) along with agriculture crops are deliberately practiced to have multiple benefits like food grain, fuelwood, fodder, vegetables, fruit to avoid leaving agriculture field for fallow. Agroforestry helps to provide farmers effective and efficient land management system to get high crop yield and income under agri-ecological conditions. The integration of tree components in crop fields may in spatial/temporal sequence. In this under agroforestry integration woody and non-woody components are main target along with economic surety (Kumar and Nair 2004). \r\nFrey et al. (2010) estimated financial returns from eight agroforestry and seven forestry systems to compare returns from agriculture on marginal and average lands in the Lower Mississippi Alluvial Valley (LMAV), as an indicator for potential adoption. In all but a few cases, agriculture had higher returns than agroforestry and forestry. However, moderate prices from carbon credits from afforestation and reforestation activities have potential on marginal agricultural that maintains large carbon stock avoiding clear cutting. \r\nDwivedi et al. (2007) studied outcome of socio-economic diagnosis of traditional as well as commercial agroforestry practices being practiced by farmers in Western Uttar Pradesh including tree species such as Azadirachta indica, Acacia nilotica, Dalbergia sissoo and Eucalyptus spp. in traditional system whereas, Populus deltoids and Eucalyptus spp. were the main species of commercial agroforestry. The net return from tree produce ha-1 per annum in traditional system was Rs. 989, 541 and 440 for marginal, small and medium farmers, respectively. In commercial region, B:C ratio has been found higher (3.00) for poplar based agrisilviculture than poplar (2.84) and eucalyptus (2.68) based bund system. The traditional agroforestry seems less promising as compared to commercial agroforestry, but it is most beneficial to the farmers livelihood.\r\nIn India, agroforestry practices are carried out over approximately 25.32 million hectare i.e., approximate 8.32% of total geographic area of country. Different variations of agroforestry being observed included Agri-Silviculture (alley cropping, multiple cropping and inters cropping), Aqua-Silviculture (tree-fish-arable crop and tree-fish-livestock systems). As compared to a monoculture, well integrated and managed agroforestry practices have many benefits which have not yet been popularized in country (Kumar et al., 2017). \r\nThe main objective for promoting agroforestry is proper utilization of limited land resources by farmers and to get continued income round the year. Although in Jharkhand efforts have been made to assess the farmers’ participation in agroforestry, but reasons for its non-adoption in West Singhbhum district of Jharkhand have not been yet worked out. Hence present study was taken to provide the baseline information in this respect.\r\nMaterials and Method\r\nIn the present study data have been collected from eight villages of West Singhbhum district of Jharkhand State. Four blocks were selected and from each block four villages and from each village twenty households were selected for data generation. Therefore, from each village 20 households and a total no. of 320 respondents were selected from each block as:\r\n \r\n4 × 4 × 20 = 320\r\n Block Village Household Total no. of respondents\r\nThe map of the study area is shown below:\r\nThe study is based on survey of 20 randomly selected household practicing agroforestry from each village with the help of a questionnaire specially designed and pretested for the interviewing the socio-economic survey from four blocks namely- Khuntpani, Jagganathpur, Manjhari and Tonto and from each block four villages and from each villages 20 respondents or households were selected for the observation. \r\nRESULTS AND DISCUSSION\r\nSocio-economic characteristics of the respondents. The socio-economic characteristics including age, education and source of income are observed and data is shown in Table 1. It is evident that majority of the respondents under West Singhbhum district belonged to middle age group (61%) followed by old age group (22.18%) and young age group (16.87%). Also majority of the respondents (51.20%) were illiterate, 38.40% were pre-matric and 2.19% were up to graduate level. This study also revealed that 71.88% respondents reported to have earned their income mainly from agriculture while, 15.93% from agroforestry and 13.13% from collection of forest products. Similarly, studies have indicated that socio-economic characteristics had much influence on the adoption behavior regarding new practices (Jamal, 2005). FAO (2001) also reported that agroforestry adopters belonged to higher group in their socio-economic status.\r\nIt present study also it is observed that illiteracy was also the main reason for less adoption of agroforestry by farmers. The farmers considered this practice harmful for their agricultural crops due to lack of education and awareness for agroforestry. Amir (2003) also reported that education was the main and vital weapon for bringing a positive change in the behavior of individual farmer for adoption of agroforestry. Hence the illiteracy among the farmers is much influencing their behavior to adopt agroforestry practices as it is one of the main hindrances which creating ignorance and unawareness among the individuals.\r\nGlover et al. (2013) has witnessed a significant improvement in the adoption and promotion of agroforestry technologies among smallholder farmers world-wide and in particular, developing countries. They observed that the main socio-economic factors that determine the actual occurrence of agroforestry are household security, access to capital and incentives, labour, gender, land tenure, farm size and knowledge for management. Sustainable development through agroforestry can be achieved through genuine and continuous involvement of farmers in agroforestry activities.\r\nThe sources of income and the occupations also determine the social standing of the adoption behaviour of the people because as depicted in Table-1 only a small number of farmers (71.88%) were actively engaged in agriculture and 15.93% were practicing agroforestry. The farmers who were planting selected trees species on their farmlands were also confronted with major problems like timber and fuel wood marketing. Therefore, farmers mainly utilizes tree species as fodder sources for their livestock, as a result they couldn’t drive income from their farmland tree.\r\nAttitude of the respondents towards Agroforestry. The responses of attitude from the agroforestry practices perceived through pre designed questionnaire (Table 2) consisted benefits obtained in ten items and the farmers\' responses were categorized as \'strongly agree\', \'agree\', \'disagree\' and \'strongly disagree\', respectively.\r\nIt is observed that majority (15.62%) of the farmers fall in strongly agree category, which indicated that agroforestry meets day to day demand for food, fodder and fuel. The response through agroforestry is substantial improvement in profile and fertility of land with 14.37% respondents fall in \'agree\' category. Moreover, 13.43% of respondants indicated that agroforestry encourages subsidiary activities like dairy, fishery, bee keeping etc. and 7.50% adoption of agroforestry decreases crop production per unit area of land gave \'disagree\' category. It was observed that respondents agreed to the tune of 12.50%. \r\nThe response of the respondents that practice of agroforestry contributed to improve vegetation in the area is 11.56% agree. The data in Table 2 indicated that on an average agroforestry farming is considered as progressive farming system’ 8.75% respondents fall in the category of agree followed by ‘agroforestry has no effect on crop production to improve yields’ i.e, 8.43%, \'strongly, \'disagree\' and ‘Adoption of agroforestry decreases crop production per unit area of land\' strongly disagree\' 7.50% in the studied area. It may be inferred from the data that more than 50% respondents have moderate knowledge about agroforestry. Therefore, more exposure needs to be given to the villagers for increasing the adoption level of Agroforestry systems.\r\nKumar et al. (2017) found that major constraint on agroforestry is lack of proper management, shortage of technical support, rigid policy of harvesting of tree products and informal, unstructured market. Due to these reason farmers are disappointing to grow tree on their field. However, there is a great potential for the development of agroforestry in India.\r\n','Tanu Shree Lakra, M.S. Malik, P.R. Oraon, B.C. Oraon, Jai Kumar and S.S. Das (2022). Attitude and Acceptance of Farmers for Agroforestry in Selected Blocks of West Singhbhum District, Jharkhand, India. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 14(3): 470-473.'),(5299,'136','Leaf Propagation in Guava (Psidium guajava L.)- An Unique Approach for Producing Quality and Nematode-free Planting Materials','Vikram Choudhary*, C. Indu Rani, M. Djanaguirama, J. Auxcilia and R. Neelavathi','77 Leaf Propagation in Guava (Psidium guajava L.)- An Unique Approach for Producing Quality and Nematode-free Planting Materials Vikram Choudhary.pdf','',1,'Guava is the fourth most important fruit crop grown in India. In the existing commercial propagation method of ground layering/stooling, root knot the nematode is transferred through soil media along with planting materials and it is becoming the serious threat for guava orchards. The production of nematode free planting materials without carrying from the infested soil from mother plants is very essential for the sustainable production of guava. A study was undertaken to develop a new propagation method for producing nematode free planting materials in guava. The fourth mature leaf from the shoot tipin guava cv. Lucknow-49, Allahabad Safeda and Arka Kiran were collected in the early morning hours during the month of November 2021. The leaves were washed with running water followed by quick dip of the petiole portion in 1% Bavistin followed by dipping in 500, 1,000 and 1,500 ppm of Indole-3-Butyric Acid (IBA) for one and two minutes. The treated guava leaves were then planted in 50 cavity protrays containing well decomposed cocopeat (pH7) mixed with Pseudomonas fluorescens and Trichoderma viride and placed in a small polytunnel under shade netat a temperature of 28-30oC and relative humidity of 75±5% were maintained which is congenial for rooting. The leaves of Lucknow-49 rooted when treated with 1,500 ppm IBA dipped for 1 and 2 minutes with rooting percentage of 70% and 72% respectively. These rooted leaves were further treated with benzyl adenine at different concentration (100, 200, 300, 400 and 500 ppm) for better shoot formation. Rooted leaf treated with 300 ppm BA for one minute recorded better result as it took less time for shoot formation (28.40 days) and survival percentage of 80% was recorded.','Guava, leaf, propagation, IBA, BA, shade net and polytunnel','From the present study, it is concluded that fourth mature leaves from shoot tip dipped in 1,500 ppm IBA for 2 minutes (T7) and rooted leaves dipped in 300 ppm BA for 1 minute (T8) showed significant effect on rooting and shoot formation respectively. The highest rooting percentage of 72% was obtained from T7 which was recorded on 30thday after planting whereas survival percentage of 80% was obtained from rooted leaves treated with T8 which can be further improved by maintaining accurate temperature and humidity along with the good quality of irrigation water. This technique easily fulfills the quality and quantity of planting materials within a short period of time. As compared to other methods, it is simpler, less labor-intensive, true to type, early bearing, economical and free of nematodes.','INTRODUCTION\r\nGuava (Psidium guajava L.) also known as “Apple of tropics” is one of the most common and popular fruits grown in tropical and sub-tropical regions of India. Owing to its luscious, wider adaptability, prolific bearing and high remunerative in nature it is popular across the world and also due to its availability round the year and reasonable price it is called as Poor man’s apple (Das et al., 1995; Brijesh et al., 2014).\r\nIn guava, various drawbacks are reported in conventional methods of propagation (air-layering, stooling, ground layering). Seed propagated plants have various disadvantages such as a long juvenile phase, lack of true-to-type progeny, genetic heterogeneity, segregation and recombination of characters (Martínez-De-Lara et al., 2004; Soni et al., 2016). In asexual method of propagation namely stooling, ground layering, budding, grafting, stem cutting, air layering and inarching are still not commercially feasible because of various disadvantages. In ground layering and stooling, there are more possibilities that soil media might carry nematodes along with the planting materials. When these planting materials are used, it becomes very difficult to manage nematode as it rapidly spreads and leads to heavy loss in production (Poornima et al., 2016). In case of budding (Gupta and Mehrotra (1985, Kaundal et al., 1987), air layering (Sharma et al., 1978; Manna et al., 2001) and inarching (Mukherjee and Majumder 1983) it has been reported that all these methods are time-consuming, wax and wane in success percentage, laborious, expensive, absence of tap root system and uneconomical (Soni et al., 2016; Singh et al., 2019). Stem cutting is an effortless method but due to guava stem being hard to root this is also not suitable therefore leaves can be an option for propagation. As root formation in the leaf is a key step in fruit crops’ vegetative propagation. The mechanism of root development could be divided into three stages: root induction, root initiation and root protrusion and all these stages are regulated through auxins. Owing to natural auxin synthesis in leaves and stem tip leading to more chances for root formation in leaf (Ljung et al., 2001). Hence, the objective of this experiment was framed in such a way to develop a new commercial method of clonal multiplication in guava.\r\nMATERIALS AND METHODS\r\nThe research was carried out at Horticultural College and Research Institute, TNAU, Coimbatore, Tamil Nadu during 2020-21 in a Factorial Completely Randomized Design with five replications (10 leaves per replication) and two factors (F1: Varieties and F2: Plant growth regulators at different concentration).\r\nMother block for each variety (Lucknow 49, Allahabad Safeda and Arka Kiran) are maintained within the premises of nursery. Mother block is one of the most important inputs which decides the fate of production efficiency of fruit orchard. They are planted at a closer spacing of 2x1m in order to accommodate more number of plants and to get continuous supply of propagation material. These plants are severely pruned once in a year in the month of February to keep them in vegetative phase to produce enough shoots for propagation purposes. They are maintained rigorously so as to keep the plants healthy and free of diseases and insect pests. \r\nLeaves for the purpose of this experiment were collected from the mother block mentioned above. 50 leaves from guava cv. Lucknow-49, Allahabad Safeda and Arka Kiran were collected and used in this study.\r\nThe 4th mature leaves were collected from the shoot tip of current season growth during morning hours which were then washed under running water followed by a quick dip at 1% Bavistin solution prior to planting. The petiole portion of leaves was dipped in 500, 1,000 and 1,500 ppm of Indole butyric acid (IBA) solutions for 1 and 2 minutes. After dipping, the leaves were planted in 50 cavity (4.5 cm top diameter, 3.2 cm bottom diameter, 4 cm depth, 50 ml capacity) protrays containing well-decomposed cocopeat (pH7) mixed with Pseudomonas fluorescens & Trichoderma viride, and kept in a small polytunnel under shade net. Leaves were irrigated alternately using as prayer and frequent inspection was done to check for any kind of deformity. From the 30th day of planting, root formation was observations on root formation in leaf petiole were recorded. The rooted leaves were then dipped in 100, 200, 300, 400 and 500 ppm of benzyl adenine (BA) solution. The treated rooted leaves were transferred into polybags containing a potting mixture of red soil, sand and farmyard manure (2:1:1). Irrigation was done by sprayer when it is required.\r\nFor root formation on leaves, data observed were number of days taken for rooting, rooting percentage and number of roots per leaf and root length (cm). For shoot formation, data observed were number of days taken for shoot formation, shoot formation (%), shoot length (cm) and survival percentage (%).\r\nFactor 1\r\nV1: Lucknow 49\r\nV2: Allahabad Safeda\r\nV3: Arka Kiran\r\nFactor 2\r\nG1: 500 ppm IBA\r\nG2: 1,000 ppm IBA\r\nG3: 1,500 ppm IBA\r\nRESULTS AND DISCUSSION\r\nGuava is a crop that is conventionally propagated by stooling but due to compromise in the quality of planting material as well as nematode infection, leaf propagation which has not been commonly used in fruit crops was given a trial in this experiment in order to get a perception on its success rate that can be a novel technique for producing a good quality planting materials as observed by Neelavathi et al., 2021. The present experiment was carried out at a shade net where the optimum temperature (28-30oC) and humidity (75±5%) required for successful rooting of the leaves were maintained by making a tunnel inside the shade net using polyethylene sheet of 200 microns (Fig.1)without which required humidity was not possible to maintain under only a shade net. Rymbai and Satyanarayana Reddy (2010) also reported that climate and media plays a crucial role in rooting. Irrigation water also plays an important role in the success of this experiment as the salt content in the water of Tamil Nadu is high which leads to the burning of leaves. Therefore, Siruvani water (The world’s 2nd tastiest water) was used for irrigating the leaves on an alternate basis with the help of a sprayer as the leaves are very brittle at the initial stage of propagation. In order to maintain the humidity of the experimental site, water was sprayed on the ground as well as the wall of the shade net. The success of the propagated leaves was being judged by visual appearance. The change in colour of the midrib and vein to yellow was observed after 15 days of planting (Fig. 2). For this experiment, 4th matured leaf from shoot tip from three different varieties were taken and treated with different concentrations of IBA. Out of these three varieties taken for the study, only Lucknow 49 treated with 1,500 ppm of IBA (dipped for 1 and 2 minutes) rooted in 33.80 days and 32.60 days respectively and the rest of the leaves dried (Table 1), which may be due to the varietal differences, lower concentrations of exogenous IBA and the presence of auxin inhibitor biochemical compounds (Lomax et al. 1995) and also due to the lack of endogenous auxin synthesis. Treatment duration highly stimulates cambial activity thereby resulting in the mobilization of reserve food material to the site from the leaf to the petiole through the midrib and veins that enhance earlier root formation (Shahzad et al., 2019). IBA is a non-toxic auxin (Hartmann et al., 2002) and effective in encouraging the rooting of a large number of plant species (Teklehaimanot et al., 1996).\r\nHigher rooting percentage was observed in T7 (72%) followed by T6 (70%). Root length and number of roots per leaf were measured at 30th and 60th day of planting and has been found to differ due to the treatment duration as well the maturity stage of leaf i,e., 4th mature leaves from shoot tip. Survival percentage recorded the highest in T7 (82.15%) followed by T6 (79.38%). Interaction between auxin and cytokinin plays an important role in root and shoot regeneration. The fourth matured was leaf dipped in 1500 ppm IBA for 2 minutes (T7) recorded highest root length (19.08 cm) and number of roots per leaf (31.58) on 60th day after planting (Table 2, Fig. 3). Similar result was observed in grape cutting at higher concentrations (Shahzad et al., 2019). A tremendous increase in the root length and number of roots per leaf was observed after 30th day of planting as the rooted leaves were carefully uprooted from protrays and treated with BA for initiation of shoot formation. The rooted leaves were treated with 200 and 300 ppm of BA dipped for one minute. Cytokinin such as BA increases biosynthesis of nucleic acids and mitotic activity in apices of buds those responsible for shoot formation (Chvojka 1964). Higher concentration of BA (300 ppm) was found to produce better result in terms of time taken for shoot formation (28.40 days after treatment), shoot formation percentage (83.33%), number of shoot per rooted leaves (4) and survival percentage (80%) (Table 3). Exogenous application of BA promotes shoot regeneration (Cornejo-Martin et al., 1979). Similar studies were conducted using cytokinin in Rudbeckia laciniata,Ruta graveolens, Gratiola officinalis which plays an important role in shoot formation (Custers 1986). The ratio of auxin-cytokinin I s an important factor to be considered for root and shoot formation as the leaves were initially treated with IBA which were further treated with BA on 30th day of planting might be the reason for its interaction in formation of successful root and shoot propagated through guava leaf. Exogenous application of BA promoted shoot formation but this action appeared to depend on the presence of other regulators in the medium and also on the plant species used (Cornejo-Martin et al., 1979; Van Aartrijk et al., 1985).\r\n','Vikram Choudhary, C. Indu Rani, M. Djanaguirama, J. Auxcilia and R. Neelavathi (2022). Leaf Propagation in Guava (Psidium guajava L.)- An Unique Approach for Producing Quality and Nematode-free Planting Materials. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 14(3): 465-469.'),(5300,'136','Attitude and Acceptance of Farmers for Agroforestry in Selected Blocks of West Singhbhum District, Jharkhand, India','Tanu Shree Lakra, M.S. Malik, P.R. Oraon, B.C. Oraon, Jai Kumar and S.S. Das','78 Attitude and Acceptance of Farmers for Agroforestry in Selected Blocks of West Singhbhum District, Jharkhand, India Tanu Shree Lakra.pdf','',1,'The agroforestry practice is intervention of forestry/fruit tree species on cultivated lands for achieving multiple benefits like, fuel wood, fodder, timber, fruit etc. The main objective of this study was to investigate and analyze the reasons for non-adoption of agroforestry by farmers and the problems being faced by them in West Singhbhum district of Jharkhand. A sample of 320 respondents from four randomly selected blocks was interviewed through a structured interview schedule in person and the data were analyzed. It was concluded that the farmers were not adopting agroforestry mainly due to the lack of awareness about the tree benefits. They considered that the trees compete with agricultural crops for water and nutrients uptake and degrade their farmlands etc. The villagers may be educated and convinced with respect to adoption of agroforestry through exposure visits of successful agroforestry models for increasing their monetary benefits. Most of the farmers are found to agree that agroforestry is an option to meet the food, fodder and fuel requirements. Literacy also has bearing on adoption of agroforestry. The response of the respondents that practice of agroforestry contributed to improve vegetation in the area is highly beneficial for restoration of agro-environment.','Adoption, agricultural crops, agroforestry, constraints, farmlands','From this study it is found that farmers have been benefitted by adoption of agroforestry in terms of fodder, fuelwood and improvement of soil condition. The literacy has been also observed as one of important factor of farmers to put this level under agroforestry practices. The agroforestry supports farmers during failure of crops through livestock production system and fruit trees. The agroforestry supports farmers income during total crop failure, improves the micro climate of the area and performance of trees and agricultural crops in agroforestry is better than the pure agriculture or forestry.\r\nThe important benefits of agroforestry which the respondents perceived were becoming \'self-reliant\' in terms of fuel, fodder, timber and other minor forest produce (MFPs) improves the micro climate of the area and performance of trees and agricultural crops in agroforestry is better than pure agriculture or forestry based on rank order of the tested parameters, respectively. These benefits were rather visual in nature which the respondents noticed.\r\n','INTRODUCTION\r\nIn India the agriculture has been the major land use practice to meet the requirement of food grains and vegetables production for human consumption. The economic conditions of farmers also depend on agriculture, but in most of region of India agriculture practice cannot be throughout the year. As a result their economy and livelihood are affected. To have multiple gain from agriculture field the practice of agroforestry has a support system to agriculture during lean period as in this interactions of tree component (timber, fuelwood, fruit trees etc.) along with agriculture crops are deliberately practiced to have multiple benefits like food grain, fuelwood, fodder, vegetables, fruit to avoid leaving agriculture field for fallow. Agroforestry helps to provide farmers effective and efficient land management system to get high crop yield and income under agri-ecological conditions. The integration of tree components in crop fields may in spatial/temporal sequence. In this under agroforestry integration woody and non-woody components are main target along with economic surety (Kumar and Nair 2004). \r\nFrey et al. (2010) estimated financial returns from eight agroforestry and seven forestry systems to compare returns from agriculture on marginal and average lands in the Lower Mississippi Alluvial Valley (LMAV), as an indicator for potential adoption. In all but a few cases, agriculture had higher returns than agroforestry and forestry. However, moderate prices from carbon credits from afforestation and reforestation activities have potential on marginal agricultural that maintains large carbon stock avoiding clear cutting. \r\nDwivedi et al. (2007) studied outcome of socio-economic diagnosis of traditional as well as commercial agroforestry practices being practiced by farmers in Western Uttar Pradesh including tree species such as Azadirachta indica, Acacia nilotica, Dalbergia sissoo and Eucalyptus spp. in traditional system whereas, Populus deltoids and Eucalyptus spp. were the main species of commercial agroforestry. The net return from tree produce ha-1 per annum in traditional system was Rs. 989, 541 and 440 for marginal, small and medium farmers, respectively. In commercial region, B:C ratio has been found higher (3.00) for poplar based agrisilviculture than poplar (2.84) and eucalyptus (2.68) based bund system. The traditional agroforestry seems less promising as compared to commercial agroforestry, but it is most beneficial to the farmers livelihood.\r\nIn India, agroforestry practices are carried out over approximately 25.32 million hectare i.e., approximate 8.32% of total geographic area of country. Different variations of agroforestry being observed included Agri-Silviculture (alley cropping, multiple cropping and inters cropping), Aqua-Silviculture (tree-fish-arable crop and tree-fish-livestock systems). As compared to a monoculture, well integrated and managed agroforestry practices have many benefits which have not yet been popularized in country (Kumar et al., 2017). \r\nThe main objective for promoting agroforestry is proper utilization of limited land resources by farmers and to get continued income round the year. Although in Jharkhand efforts have been made to assess the farmers’ participation in agroforestry, but reasons for its non-adoption in West Singhbhum district of Jharkhand have not been yet worked out. Hence present study was taken to provide the baseline information in this respect.\r\nMaterials and Method\r\nIn the present study data have been collected from eight villages of West Singhbhum district of Jharkhand State. Four blocks were selected and from each block four villages and from each village twenty households were selected for data generation. Therefore, from each village 20 households and a total no. of 320 respondents were selected from each block as:\r\n \r\n4 × 4 × 20 = 320\r\n Block Village Household Total no. of respondents\r\nThe map of the study area is shown below:\r\nThe study is based on survey of 20 randomly selected household practicing agroforestry from each village with the help of a questionnaire specially designed and pretested for the interviewing the socio-economic survey from four blocks namely- Khuntpani, Jagganathpur, Manjhari and Tonto and from each block four villages and from each villages 20 respondents or households were selected for the observation. \r\nRESULTS AND DISCUSSION\r\nSocio-economic characteristics of the respondents. The socio-economic characteristics including age, education and source of income are observed and data is shown in Table 1. It is evident that majority of the respondents under West Singhbhum district belonged to middle age group (61%) followed by old age group (22.18%) and young age group (16.87%). Also majority of the respondents (51.20%) were illiterate, 38.40% were pre-matric and 2.19% were up to graduate level. This study also revealed that 71.88% respondents reported to have earned their income mainly from agriculture while, 15.93% from agroforestry and 13.13% from collection of forest products. Similarly, studies have indicated that socio-economic characteristics had much influence on the adoption behavior regarding new practices (Jamal, 2005). FAO (2001) also reported that agroforestry adopters belonged to higher group in their socio-economic status.\r\nIt present study also it is observed that illiteracy was also the main reason for less adoption of agroforestry by farmers. The farmers considered this practice harmful for their agricultural crops due to lack of education and awareness for agroforestry. Amir (2003) also reported that education was the main and vital weapon for bringing a positive change in the behavior of individual farmer for adoption of agroforestry. Hence the illiteracy among the farmers is much influencing their behavior to adopt agroforestry practices as it is one of the main hindrances which creating ignorance and unawareness among the individuals.\r\nGlover et al. (2013) has witnessed a significant improvement in the adoption and promotion of agroforestry technologies among smallholder farmers world-wide and in particular, developing countries. They observed that the main socio-economic factors that determine the actual occurrence of agroforestry are household security, access to capital and incentives, labour, gender, land tenure, farm size and knowledge for management. Sustainable development through agroforestry can be achieved through genuine and continuous involvement of farmers in agroforestry activities.\r\nThe sources of income and the occupations also determine the social standing of the adoption behaviour of the people because as depicted in Table-1 only a small number of farmers (71.88%) were actively engaged in agriculture and 15.93% were practicing agroforestry. The farmers who were planting selected trees species on their farmlands were also confronted with major problems like timber and fuel wood marketing. Therefore, farmers mainly utilizes tree species as fodder sources for their livestock, as a result they couldn’t drive income from their farmland tree.\r\nAttitude of the respondents towards Agroforestry. The responses of attitude from the agroforestry practices perceived through pre designed questionnaire (Table 2) consisted benefits obtained in ten items and the farmers\' responses were categorized as \'strongly agree\', \'agree\', \'disagree\' and \'strongly disagree\', respectively.\r\n \r\nIt is observed that majority (15.62%) of the farmers fall in strongly agree category, which indicated that agroforestry meets day to day demand for food, fodder and fuel. The response through agroforestry is substantial improvement in profile and fertility of land with 14.37% respondents fall in \'agree\' category. Moreover, 13.43% of respondants indicated that agroforestry encourages subsidiary activities like dairy, fishery, bee keeping etc. and 7.50% adoption of agroforestry decreases crop production per unit area of land gave \'disagree\' category. It was observed that respondents agreed to the tune of 12.50%. \r\nThe response of the respondents that practice of agroforestry contributed to improve vegetation in the area is 11.56% agree. The data in Table 2 indicated that on an average agroforestry farming is considered as progressive farming system’ 8.75% respondents fall in the category of agree followed by ‘agroforestry has no effect on crop production to improve yields’ i.e, 8.43%, \'strongly, \'disagree\' and ‘Adoption of agroforestry decreases crop production per unit area of land\' strongly disagree\' 7.50% in the studied area. It may be inferred from the data that more than 50% respondents have moderate knowledge about agroforestry. Therefore, more exposure needs to be given to the villagers for increasing the adoption level of Agroforestry systems.\r\nKumar et al. (2017) found that major constraint on agroforestry is lack of proper management, shortage of technical support, rigid policy of harvesting of tree products and informal, unstructured market. Due to these reason farmers are disappointing to grow tree on their field. However, there is a great potential for the development of agroforestry in India.\r\n','Tanu Shree Lakra, M.S. Malik, P.R. Oraon, B.C. Oraon, Jai Kumar and S.S. Das (2022). Attitude and Acceptance of Farmers for Agroforestry in Selected Blocks of West Singhbhum District, Jharkhand, India. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 14(3): 470-473.'),(5301,'136','Association and Genetic variability Studies for Yield Contributing Traits in Barnyard Millet (Echinochloa frumentacea (Roxb.) Link) Mutants','Sathish Kumar R., Vanniarajan C., Vetriventhan M., Chandirakala R., Saravanan S. and Renuka R.','79 Association and Genetic variability Studies for Yield Contributing Traits in Barnyard Millet (Echinochloa frumentacea (Roxb.) Link) Mutants Sathish Kumar.pdf','',1,'Barnyard millet is a climate-resilient crop and have high nutrient content and antioxidant effects hence it considered to be a functional food crop. It is used as one of the substitutes for conventional cereal crops. The present study was conducted to study the genetic variability, correlation and path analysis for the yield contributing characters in barnyard millet mutants. Twenty-five mutants along with check-MDU 1 were studied for 12 biometrical traits. Analysis of variance showed significant for all the characters. High PCV and GCV indicates less influence of environmental effect. The correlation studies showed that there was significant positive correlation observed for plant height, number of tillers, number of productive tillers, number of racemes, single ear head weight, and thousand-grain weight. A positive direct effect was noticed in the path analysis for the traits such as number of productive tillers, number of racemes, days to maturity, single ear head weight and thousand-grain weight on the yield. Selection criteria based on these traits would be helpful for increasing the yield.','Barnyard millet, genetic variability, correlation and path analysis','It is concluded the path analysis for the traits such as number of productive tillers, number of racemes, days to maturity, single ear head weight and thousand-grain weight on the yield. Selection criteria based on these traits would be helpful for increasing the yield.','INTRODUCTION\r\nBarnyard millet, which was a food and feed crop of semi-arid tropics is considered important in the era of extreme climate unpredictability because of its value for drought tolerance and biotic stress resistance. Owing to these qualities, barnyard millet is an excellent supplemental crop for subsistence farmers and a contingency crop during monsoon breakdowns. And furthermore, it has been exploited in the rehabilitation of soils with sodicity, arsenic, and cadmium concerns (Anuradha et al., 2020). With an area of 0.146 million hectares, production of 0.151 million tonnes, and productivity of 1034 kg/ha stated for the previous three years, India was reported to be the world\'s leading producer of barnyard millet (Renganathan et al., 2020). Being a short duration crop, it would be beneficial for the introduction of cultivars with extra-early maturity (60–75 days) and large yields which might aid farmers in reducing the impact of the ongoing climatic fluctuations. A genetic gain estimate is a cornerstone of each crop breeding strategy in order to evaluate its successes and drawbacks and to set up long term breeding efforts. It is necessary to have a solid grasp of the target environment with a population that exhibits substantial genetic diversity in order to increase selection efficiency and genetic progress in challenging conditions.\r\nFinding novel sources of genetic variability for advantageous traits, such that a combination of alleles results in offspring with improved performance, is essential to the advancement of plant breeding.The objective of the present study is to identify the determinants that influence variability and trait association of barnyard millet mutants in order to improve the crop yield for succeeding generations.\r\nMATERIALS AND METHODS\r\nThe experiment was conducted at Agricultural College and Research Institute, Madurai during Rabi season 2021. Sodium Azide(SA) and Ethyl Methane Sulphonate (EMS) were used as chemical mutagens in varying concentrations to generate 25 mutants of the MDU 1 variety for the experiment. Three replications were used in Randomized Block Design experiment with the mutants and the check variety MDU 1 grown as an M5 generation. The plants were raised with a row-to-row spacing of 30 cm and a plant-to-plant spacing of 15 cm employing the suggested crop management actions for the crop\'s effective growth. Five plants were randomly chosen from each replication for the observations, observations were recorded.\r\nThe observations were recorded for 12 biometrical traits, considering the characters such as plant height (cm), number of tillers, number of productive tillers, days to 50% flowering, flag leaf length (cm), flag leaf breadth (cm), number of racemes, length of lower raceme (cm), days to maturity, single ear head weight (g), thousand-grain weight (g) and single plant yield (g). Except for days to 50% blooming, which was recorded on a plot basis, five plants were randomly chosen each replication for each mutant and used to record the biometrical data.\r\nFollowing Burton\'s approach (1952), phenotypic and genotypic coefficients of variation were calculated, and their interpretation was predicated based on Sivasubramanian and Madhavamenon\'s categorization (1973). Computation of Heritability was carried out following the procedure stated by Lush (1940) and the genetic advance as a percentage of the mean was examined referring to Johnson et al. (1955a). Correlation and path co-efficient were analyzed employing the methods proposed by Johnson et al. (1955b); Dewey and Lu (1959), respectively. The data was subjected to R software for analysis.\r\nRESULTS AND DISCUSSION\r\nAnalysis of variance: The quantitative characters exhibit continuous variation, which there-in imposesthe need for selection. The continuous variation is analyzed by the ANOVA which splits the total variation into different components, which gives the basis for the test of significance. The analysis of variance (ANOVA) revealed the significance for all the studied characters (Table 1). It represents the presence of sufficient variation in the studied traits. Similar findings were concluded by Arunachalam and Vanniarajan (2012) in barnyard millet; Lule et al. (2012) in barnyard millet and Keerthana et al. (2019) in finger millet. A wide range of variability was noticed for the characters such as plant height (98.12 – 145.2), days to 50% flowering (58.33 – 68), flag leaf length (26.06 – 33), flag leaf breadth (2.34 – 3.84), number of tillers (4.8 – 8.8), number of productive tillers (3.2 – 6), number of racemes (45.4 – 72.8), length of lower raceme (2.24 – 4.08), single ear head weight (7.58 – 15.20), days to maturity (88 – 97.2), thousand-grain weight (2.22 – 5.78) and single plant yield (30.18 – 62.66) which were identical to the results of Nirubana et al. (2021) in Kodo millet; Upadhyaya et al. (2014) in barnyard millet; Emrey et al. (2022) in finger millet.\r\nMeasures of variability: The phenotypic coefficient of variation was slightlygreater than the genotypic coefficient of variation which indicates the less environmental effect in association with the traits at the level of genotype. The estimates of variability studies were represented in Table 2. The high PCV and GCV were observed for the traits such as thousand-grain weight and single plant yield which represents the presence of a large amount of variation in the mutants. Subramanian et al. (2020) reported similar findings for the single plant yield but in contradiction to the trait of thousand-grain weight in barnyard millet. Wanna Soe et al. (2022) also concluded the same outcomes for plant yield in finger millet. \r\nThe medium PCV and GCV were noticed for flag leaf breadth, number of tillers, number of productive tillers, number ofracemes, length of lower raceme, and single ear head weight which indicates the availability of considerable amount of variation present in the studied characters of the genotypes. Similar conclusions were revealed by Vikram et al. (2020) for number of tillers; Subramanian et al. (2020) for the character of number of productive tillers; Reganathan et al. (2018) for number of racemes and single ear head weight in barnyard millet; Subramanian et al. (2020) in barnyard millet for flag leaf breadth. The low PCV and GCV were identified in the characters such as plant height, days to 50% flowering, flag leaf length, and days to maturity. This revealed that the selection of these characters would not effective for the genetic improvement program. Similar outcomes were obtained by Renganathan et al. (2018); Arya et al. (2018) in barnyard millet; Dhanalakshmi et al. (2019) in barnyard millet and Anuradha et al. (2020) in little millet.\r\nHeritability in combination with genetic advance helps to depict the genetic improvement underphenotypic selection. The estimates of h2 and GAM were represented graphically in Fig. 1. \r\nThe heritability varied between 48.13% to 99.31%. The high heritability was recorded for eleven characters such as plant height (94.04%), number of tillers (97.04%), number of productive tillers (96.76%), days to 50% flowering (72.39%), flag leaf length (74.99%), flag leaf breadth (93.45%), number of racemes (95.12%), length of lower raceme (97.75%), single ear head weight (98.07%), thousand-grain weight (98.67%) and single plant yield (99.31%). Similar reports were produced by Vikram et al. (2020) in barnyard millet for all traits; Ranjana et al. (2020) in barnyard millet for lower raceme and thousand-grain weight; Lule et al. (2012) in finger millet and WannaSoe et al. (2022) in finger millet for days to 50% flowering; Dhanalakshmi et al. (2019) in barnyard millet for plant height, flag leaf length, flag leaf width, lower raceme length, and yield; Renganathan et al. (2018) for number of racemes, single ear head weight and plant yield in barnyard millet. The high heritability indicates the additive gene action of the character. The moderate heritability was observed for the days to maturity (48.13%) with similar findings reported by Arya et al. (2018) in barnyard millet. Thousand-grain weight and single plant yield showed the high h2 and high GCV which indicates the genotypic reaction.\r\nThe genetic advance as percent of the mean (GAM) ranged from 3.46% - 52.94% for the 12 characters. High GAM was identified for eight characters viz, number of tillers, number of productive tillers, flag leaf breadth, number of racemes, length of lower raceme, single ear head weight, thousand-grain weight and single plant yield. The findings were identical with Vikram et al. (2020) for number of tillers, number of productive tillers, single ear head weight and single plant yield; Keerthana et al. (2019) in finger millet for number of racemes; Ranjana et al. (2020) for flag leaf breadth, lower raceme length and thousand-grain weight. The character plant height showed a medium level of GAM identical to the findings of Arya et al. (2018) in barnyard millet; Emrey et al. (2022) in finger millet. Low GAM was noticed for days to 50% flowering, flag leaf length and days to maturitythese results were in accordance with the reports submitted by for days to maturity in finger millet mutants; Anuradha et al. (2020) in little millet for flag leaf length. The characters with both high heritability and high GAM reveal the predominant action of additive gene which could be useful for selecting the desirable mutantsfor further generations. Low heritability with low genetic advance concludes that the trait is highly dominated by environmental effects and the selection would be ineffective.\r\nCorrelation studies: Yield is a quantitative trait that is controlled by several genes. Correlation studies help to identify the relationship between yield and yield contributing traits. We can improve the yield, by the indirect selection of independent attributes which influence the yield. Correlation coefficients for studied traits were presented in Tables 3 & 4. Among the examined traits, characteristics such as plant height, number of tillers,number of productive tillers, number of racemes, single ear head weight, and thousand-grain weight were highly significant and positively correlated with single plant yield (Table 3). Similar results were reported by Monika et al. (2021) for all traits in barnyard millet; Prabhu et al. (2020) for plant height, number of racemes and single ear head weight; Kumar et al. (2014) in finger millet for number of tillers, and number of productive tillers; Nandhini et al. (2020) in barnyard millet for number of tillers and plant height;Nirubana et al. (2021) in Kodo millet for plant height and number of productive tillers and thousand-grain weight in finger millet. This suggested that a positive correlation for plant yield with the other contributing traits inferred that all these traits might simultaneously enhance the yield and also inferred that increase in any one of the positively associated characters would lead to improvement of other independent characters. Hence, indirect selection of the above traits aids in determining the high-yielding mutants in the population. The flag leaf length and length of lower racemewere found to be non-significant but positively correlated for the single plant yield. Similar results were produced by Chavan et al. (2020) for raceme length in finger millet and Vikram et al. (2020) for flag leaf length in barnyard millet. Among the 12 characters, plant height, number of tillers, number of productive tillers, number of racemes, single ear head weight showed highly significant and positively correlated with yield in both genotypic and phenotypic correlation (Table 3 & 4). \r\nAssociation studies on the studied characters, the independent characters showed highly significant and positive intercorrelated between plant height with number of tillers, number of productive tillers, flag leaf breadth, number of racemes, days to maturity, single ear head weight, and thousand-grain weight with same reports inferred by Renganathan et al. (2017) for all traits in barnyard milletand Sharma et al. (2018) in pearl millet for plant height with days to maturity; number of tillers significant and positively intercorrelated with number of productive tillers, number of raceme, single ear head weight and thousand-grain weight. The number of productive tillers expressed significantly and positively correlated with flag leaf length and number of racemes; days to 50% flowering with length of lower raceme and days to maturity; flag leaf length with flag leaf breadth, and length of lower raceme. The flag leaf breadth showed a significant positive association with number of racemes, length of lower raceme, days to maturity, single ear head weight and thousand-grain weight. A significant positive association was observedfor number of racemes with single ear head weight and thousand-grain weight; length of lower raceme with days to maturity.The single ear head weight showed a positive and significant association with thousand-grain weight (Table 3). Similar results were concluded by Monika et al. (2021) in barnyard millet.\r\nPath analysis: Path coefficient analysis developed by Dewey and Lu (1959) is a standardized partial regression coefficient that divides the correlation coefficient into measures of direct and indirect effects. It was performed to identify the direct and indirect contribution of different independent characters on dependent character yield. The characters viz., number of productive tillers,number of racemes, days to maturity, single ear head weight and thousand-grain weight revealed positivedirect effects which indicate that selection criteria based on these characteristics could improve the plant yield (Table 5). Similar results were reported by Rajasekar et al. (2021) for productive tillers in rice; Prabhu et al. (2020) for number of racemesin barnyard millet and Monika et al. (2021) for single ear head weight in barnyard millet. Negative direct effects were observed for the studied characters viz., plant height, number of tillers, days to 50% flowering, flag leaf length, flag leaf breadth, and length of lower raceme. Among the examined characters, days to maturity (0.6347) had high direct effects followed by number of tillers (0.5622) and then followed by single ear head weight (0.4918). Theseresults were in accordance with Renganathan et al. (2017) for single ear head weight in barnyard millet. A moderate direct effect was noticed for the trait of number of racemes (0.285). The negligible direct effectwas found on the character of thousand-grain weight (0.0095). The residual effect of 0.3088 was noticed. This indicates that these traits contribute only 69.12% to total variability in plant yield and the remaining 30.88% variability was unnoticed. This suggested that certain other characters may also contribute to improving the yield. \r\nStudies on the variability concluded that high PCV, GCV, heritability and GAM reveal less influence of environmental effect. The correlation studies showed that the characters viz, plant height, number of tillers, number of productive tillers, number of racemes, single ear head weight, and thousand-grain weight were highly significant and positively correlated with single plant yield. The path analysis elucidates the positive direct effect of number of productive tillers, number of racemes, days to maturity, single ear head weight and thousand-grain weight on the yield. Thus, selection based on the number of racemes and single ear head weight would help in increasing the grain yield. \r\n','Sathish Kumar R., Vanniarajan C., Vetriventhan M., Chandirakala R., Saravanan S. and Renuka R. (2022). Association and Genetic variability Studies for Yield Contributing Traits in Barnyard Millet (Echinochloafrumentacea (Roxb.) Link) Mutants. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 14(3): 474-479.'),(5302,'136','A Comparative Study on the Quality and Physico-Chemical properties of Bovine Colostrum','N. Sahana*, T.R. Pugazhenthi, B. Murugan, M. Parthiban and M. Prabu','80 A Comparative Study on the Quality and Physico-Chemical properties of Bovine Colostrum N. Sahana.pdf','',1,'This study was performed to assess and compare the quality and composition of skimmed cow and buffalo colostrum. Studies have indicated that the immune boosting properties of bovine colostrum is beneficial for human beings with no reports of allergic or anaphylactic reactions. Colostrum samples were collected on the 1st and 2nd days after parturition and their quality were assessed using colostrometer. The samples were stored at- 20°C in deep freezer. The frozen colostrum was thawed and defatted using cream separator. Physico-chemical properties such as fat, protein, lactose, ash, moisture, pH and titratable acidity were analysed for the skimmed bovine colostrum. It was recorded that skimmed cow and buffalo colostrum on 1st and 2nd days varied from to 0.65 –1.19% fat, 16.10 –19.25% protein, 2.42 – 2.60 % lactose, 0.77 - 0.84 % ash, 74.69 - 77.79% moisture, 6.16– 6.31% pH and 0.393 - 0.442% titratable acidity. The fat, protein, ash and titrable acidity were found to be decreased as the days advanced. Whereas, the lactose, moisture and pH content were high on 2nd day compared to the 1st day skimmed bovine colostrum. In comparison to the skimmed cow colostrum, all physico-chemical parameters were higher in skimmed buffalo colostrum.','Colostrum, Colostrometer, Cream separator, skimmed cow and buffalo colostrums','The colostrometer reading result showed that both the cow and buffalo colostrum were of high quality and had good immunoglobulin concentration (50–140 mg/ml). The tested parameters such as fat, protein, lactose and pH were high in skimmed buffalo colostrum than the skimmed cow colostrum, whereas, the ash, moisture and titrable acidity were high in skimmed cow colostrum than the skimmed buffalo colostrum. The pH increased and titrable acidity decreased as the days advanced. Thus, the skimmed buffalo colostrum found to had superior quality than the skimmed cow colostrum.','INTRODUCTION\r\nColostrum is the most effective natural immune booster that is known to science. The new born calves are fed with the initial mammary secretion, called bovine colostrum, which is produced within the first 72 hours of parturition. It contains several immunological and growth factors, essential nutrients, trypsin inhibitors, and protease inhibitors to prevent gastrointestinal tract deterioration (Das, 2009). According to Panahi et al. (2010), bovine colostrum is similar to human colostrum and are rich in vitamins, minerals, fats, carbohydrates, disease-fighting proteins, growth hormones, and digestive enzymes. Colostrum is known to be crucial for the development of the neonate immune system. The amount of lactoferrin in colostrum is 20-fold greater than it is present in the raw milk (Reiter, 1978). Bovine colostrum has a total immunoglobulin concentration that is around 100-folds higher than that of regular milk (McGrath, 2016). Age, breed, nutrition, and diseases are some of the variables that affect the composition and physical characteristics of an animal (Tsioulpas et al., 2007). Bovine colostrum was incorporated into cream separated to remove fat which in turn increased the concentration of protein. Separation technologies used to produce protein ingredients derived from milk include screening based on size differences viz. centrifugation based on density differences; membrane processes based on size differences, such as ultrafiltration, diafiltration, nanofiltration, and reverse osmosis (Huffman and Harper 1999). The deffated colostrum can also be used for the production of any value-added products. \r\nFor determining the quality of colostrum, Fleenor and Stott (1980), firstly developed a regression equation to estimate colostral immunoglobulin concentration from the specific gravity of fresh whole colostrum (globulin concentration = 211.4 × (specific gravity - 218.2). The developed colostrometer, which incorporated the relationship between immunoglobulin concentration and the specific gravity into a conventional hydrometer. \r\nAlthough colostrometer readings had a stronger correlation with actual IgG levels, farmers do not frequently use it (Bartier et al., 2015). Vasseur et al. (2010) stated that even though producers were aware of the benefits of using a colostrometer, its utilization remains low, possibly due to its fragility and inconvenience of use.\r\nThe present study was carried out to evaluate and compare the quality and physico-chemical parameters of colostrum samples collected from cow and buffalo.\r\nMATERIALS AND METHODS\r\nA. Preparation of colostrum\r\nThe bovine colostrum of 1st and 2nd days after parturition obtained from the healthy cows and buffalos were procured from the Community Cattle Care Centre of College of Food and Dairy Technology, Koduveli and Livestock Farm Complex (LFC), Madhavaram of Tamil Nadu Veterinary and Animal Sciences University and private dairy farms, Chennai. Post procurement, the colostrum were immediately transferred to the sub – zero(-20°C) condition at deep freezer. The frozen colostrum was thawed indirectly using hot water and defatted using centrifugal cream separator (Mach, Coimbatore) before experimental trials.\r\nB. Colostrometer reading\r\nColostrometer (Biogenics Laboratories, Mapleton, USA) was used to determine the quality and immunoglobulin content in colostrum. \r\nThe colostrometer consists of a measuring cylinder, spindle, and a float, allowing conclusions about the specific gravity due to its displacement. The density correlates with the immunoglobulin concentration in the colostrum. Based on this correlation, the density measured with the colostrometer could conclude the immunoglobulin concentration as shown in the Table 1 (Fleenor and Slot 1980).\r\nC. Determination of physicochemical properties \r\nAll the chemicals used in the present study were of analytical grade and procured from HiMedia Laboratories Private Ltd, Mumbai, India. The reagents required for analysis were freshly prepared from chemicals by adopting standard procedures and stored under desired conditions wherever required. The deffated bovine colostrum were analysed for physico-chemical properties such as fat, protein, lactose, ash, moisture, pH and titratable acidity. \r\nThe fat content of cream separated skimmed bovine colostrum were determined by Gerber’s method as per the procedure outlined in IS: 1479 (Part II) – (1961). The protein, ash and moisture contents of the sample were determinedas described in AOAC (1990). For cream separated colostrum the lactose and pH contents were determined as prescribed in AOAC, 2000. Titratable acidity (percent lactic acid) of the deffated cow and buffalo colostrum were estimated as per the method described in ISI Handbook, SP 18:1981.\r\nD. Statistical analysis\r\nStatistical analysis was carried out to study the effect of different parameters on all the dependent variables. The data obtained were tabulated and subjected to statistical analysis performed using IBM SPSS® 20.0 for Windows® software as per the standard procedure of Snedecor and Cochran (1994).\r\nRESULTS AND DISCUSSION\r\nA. Colostrometer reading of bovine colostrum during first two days after parturition\r\nThe colostrometer reading showed decline in values for both cow and buffalo colostrum as shown in Table 2.\r\nThe mean ± SE values of colostrometer readings were 80.50 ±0.04 and 76.56±0.70 for cow colostrum on the first and second days of parturition, while 95.65±0.03 and 87.26±0.07 for buffalo colostrum on the first and second days of parturition respectively. \r\nFrom Table 2, a highly significant difference was observed in the immunoglobulins for first two days after parturition in both cow and buffalo colostrum. These results showed that there was decline in second day as compared with first day. It was inferred that the first day colostrum have high immunoglobulin than the second day. The findings of this study were correlated with the guidelines of the colostrometer given by Biogenics laboratory, USA. As per guidelines given by Biogenics laboratory, Green mark indicates superior colostrum which has 50-140mg/ml, yellow mark indicates marginal colostrum which has 30-50mg/ml and red mark indicates inferior colostrum with 10-30mg/ml IgG. From this, it was concluded that the collected colostrum were of superior quality.\r\nThe colostrometer is an on-farm primary method that can be utilized by the farmers to detect immunoglobulin easily than other methods like ELISA and immunoblotting (Bartier et al., 2015). \r\nB. Proximate analysis for skimmed colostrum during different days\r\nThe mean ± SE values of the composition of skimmed cow and buffalo colostrum during first two days after parturition were presented in Table 3.\r\nIt was quite evident from Table 3 shows a decreasing trend for fat, protein and ash in first day 0.70±0.03,1.19±0.08; 18.74±0.18, 19.25±0.13; 0.96±0.03, 1.09±0.06, whereas, 0.65±0.03, 0.83±0.03; 16.10±0.10, 18.51±0.16; 0.77±0.11, 0.84±0.07 in second day for skimmed cow and buffalo colostrum respectively. But lactose and moisture content increased from 2.57±0.11, 2.42±0.14; 75.22±0.08, 74.69±0.11 in first day, to 2.60±0.13, 2.51±0.13; 77.79±0.08, 75.19±0.10 in second day for skimmed cow and buffalo colostrum respectively.\r\nIn the current study, a significant difference was observed among the composition of skimmed colostrum for the first two days of parturition except lactose which showed non-significant difference. Fat, protein and ash contents showed decreasing trend as the days advanced. Whereas, lactose and moisture contents showed increasing trend on advancement of days in cow and buffalo colostrum. Arain et al. (2008) found that an average fat percentage of buffalo colostrum at the initiation of lactation was 5.44%. Colostrum rich in protein on the first day of parturition decreased gradually from second day and attained normal value during the conversion to milk (Ghosh and Anantakrishnan 1964). \r\nCoroian et al. (2013) reported that the lactose concentration from colostrum gradually increased after the colostral period and attained the highest values in regular milk. Das (2009) reported that the values for protein content showed a remarkable decrease during the successive milking after parturition. \r\nThe day wise report for the composition of skimmed cow and buffalo colostrum showed approximately 1% decline or raise of composition for each day. The result obtained in the current study was in concurrence with the research findings of Parish (1950); Foley et al (1972); Sodhi et al. (1996) who have also narrated the same trend. Small variations that were observed amongst the findings of different investigators might be due to the differences in methods of analysis, or due to the variation between individual animals and breed.\r\nC. Physico- chemical properties of skimmed colostrum\r\nThe physicochemical properties like pH and titratable acidity of both skimmed cow and buffalo colostrum during first two days were shown in Table 4.\r\nFrom the results (Table 4), there was a gradual increase in pH of colostrum as the days advanced. The pH was 6.16±0.016 and 6.21±0.014 for skimmed cow colostrum and 6.27±0.017 and 6.31±0.015 for skimmed buffalo colostrum respectively for the first and second two days after parturition. \r\nSimilar results were observed by McIntyre et al. (1952), that the pH of colostrum at parturition ranged from 6.0 to 6.61, with an average value of 6.32 and this value increased with time and reached pH 6.5 after 2 weeks According to McCarthy and Singh (2009), the pH of colostrum was lower than that of normal mid-lactation milk.\r\nThe change in titratable acidity was observed to be high in skimmed cow and buffalo colostrum on first day. It was noted as 0.495±0.002 and 0.415±0.002 for first day and 0.476±0.001and 0.393±0.001 for second day in skimmed cow and buffalo colostrum respectively. Titratable acidity of colostrum is roughly 2 – 2.5 times higher than that of milk (Mitjushin, 1979).\r\nArain et al. (2008) reported that titratable acidity of first day milking colostrum as 0.39±0.01% which decreased to 0.34±0.004%, 0.31 ± 0.003%, 0.33 ± 0.01%, 0.30 ± 0.004% and 0.26±0.004% in second, third, fourth, fifth and sixth subsequent milking days respectively.\r\n','N. Sahana, T. R. Pugazhenthi, B. Murugan, M. Parthiban and M. Prabu (2022). A Comparative Study on the Quality and Physico-Chemical properties of Bovine Colostrum. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 14(3): 480-483.'),(5303,'136','Precision Farming in Papaya for the Enhancement of Fruit Yield and Quality','J. Auxcilia, K.B. Sujatha and Prakash Patil','81 Precision Farming in Papaya for the Enhancement of Fruit Yield and Quality J. Auxcilia.pdf','',1,'The aim of the present study was to enhance the yield and quality of papaya through precision farming practices viz., raised bed cultivation, drip irrigation, fertigation, micro nutrient foliar spray, use of polyethylene mulches etc. The results of the study on precision farming practices in TNAU CO 8 papaya revealed that the highest fruit yield (73.45 kg/plant and 190.94t/ha) and quality was recorded in the treatment combination, T3 (Raised bed cultivation + Drip irrigation (80% ER) + Fertigation (75% RDF) + micronutrient spray ZnSO4 0.5% + boric acid (0.2%) at alternate months) indicating the efficient use of water and nutrients under the raised bed cultivation. The treatment (T1) with polyethylene mulching along with other practices as in T3 proved to be an inefficient technology for papaya as it caused the occurrence of root rot disease (Phytophthora spp.) due to the continuous water soaking in the collar region of the stem. Leaf nutrient status, though varied significantly among treatments, it did not follow a definite trend among the treatments.','Carica papaya, L, precision farming, raised bed, drip fertigation, micro nutrients, yield and quality','Auxcilia, J., Sujatha., K.B and Prakash Patil (2022). Precision Farming in Papaya for the Enhancement of Fruit Yield and Quality. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 14(3): 484-489.','INTRODUCTION\r\nPapaya (Carica papaya L.) belongs to the family Caricaceae and is a highly nutritive crop, rich in vitamins and minerals, especially vitamin A (2020 IU) and ascorbic acid (40-60mg/100g), including dietary fiber (Premchand et al., 2021). It has attained the status of a commercially and industrially important tropical fruit crop in India over the past decade. India is the largest producer and consumer of papaya covering an area of 1.44 lakh ha, producing 57.80 MT/ ha (NHB, second Advance Estimates, 2019-2020), and has vast export potential. India, though ranks first in area and production of papaya, still lot of challenges which curtail the production which needs to be addressed (Auxcilia et al., 2020). Several factors such as irrigation, nutrition, variety, spacing, climatic conditions, etc. are responsible for better fruit production in papaya. Presently, growers face a wide array of problems that hinder the growth and production of papaya. The apparent and the most frequent constraints are found to be related to irrigation and nutrient availability during the critical physiological phases interconnected with different growth periods.\r\nPapaya responds well to irrigation and adequate irrigation helps in better flower production, fruit set, fruit development, and continuous fruit production. Irrigation with 50 to 75 mm water every 3-4 weeks and irrigating the plants at 1.3 times the evapotranspiration has been recommended for papaya earlier under the flood irrigation systems. Later, Padmakumari and Sivanappan (1989) reported that this recommendation under drip irrigation produced a higher yield as compared to flood irrigation. A significant yield reduction can occur with water shortage at certain critical growth stages leading to reduced plant height, trunk diameter, and the number of leaves per tree, and also retarded growth and development of papaya fruits (Masri et al., 1990).\r\nThe nutrient requirement of papaya differs from other crops as flower, fruit formation, and fruit development is a continuous and simultaneous phenomenon that is a unique nature of this crop. The source-sink capacity is also very high for this crop, which warrants efficient fertilizer application including foliar nutrition too. Studies conducted by Sadarunnisa et al. (2010) indicated that 75% N and K2O when applied through drip recorded a yield of 100.42 kg/plant which was on par with the yield of plants supplied with 100% RDF (102.60 kg/plant) in papaya var. Red Lady. Similarly, Jeyakumar et al. (2010) studies revealed that the application of 100% recommended dose of N and K2O (50 g N and 50 g K2O) through drip irrigation resulted in flowering at the shortest height (96.32 cm) in CO 7 papaya. An increase in fruit weight, fruit length, fruit volume, circumference and latex yield, TSS, and total sugars were observed in papaya cv. CO 5 with the foliar spray of zinc sulfate (0.5%) along with boron (0.1 %) (Kavitha and Kumar 2001). Application of a bio-stimulant, humic acid along with foliar spray of micronutrients @ ZnSO4 (0.5%) + FeSO4 (0.5%) + MgSO4 (0.5%) + CuSO4 (0.5%) + Boric acid (0.1%) at 3rd, 5th and 7th MAP + biofertilizers increased the fruit yield (72.96 kg plant) in TNAU CO 8 papaya, (Deepika, 2014). Hence, papaya can be considered a highly responsive crop to the application of micronutrients. \r\nMulching through plastic film has been proved long back as an efficient technology for the conservation of soil moisture, weed control, etc. The black polythene film mulching is ideal for eliminating weeds, warming up soil for cooler seasons, and retaining soil\'s moisture while the clear plastic film works best for warming up the soil and encouraging faster plant growth early in the growing season and is not effective in eliminating weed growth. Mulching may improve soil biological activity since organic matter and microorganisms establish a favorable carbon balance in the soil for the maintenance of productivity. The decomposition of organic residues under plastic mulch adds organic acids to the soil resulting in low soil pH, which may increase the bioavailability of micronutrients such as Mn, Zn, Cu, and Fe. This was also evident from the increased Fe and Zn content in soil under plastic mulch as reported by Tisdale et al. (1990). \r\nIn papaya, several hi-tech practices such as irrigation at 75% of the Evaporation Replenishment (ER), 75% of RDF through fertigation, foliar application of micronutrients such as boron and zinc, and plastic mulching by various workers are standardized for improving crop productivity, the combined effect of these practices as a holistic package for improving productivity and its cost-effectiveness needs thorough study to establish a package of precision practices. Hence, the present study on \"Precision farming in papaya for the enhancement of fruit yield and quality\" was undertaken. \r\nMATERIALS AND METHODS \r\nThe experiment was conducted on 2014 to 15 at the College Orchard, Department of Fruit Crops, Horticultural College & Research Institute, Tamil Nadu Agricultural University, Coimbatore-3. The trial was laid out in Randomized Complete Block Design (RCBD) with four replications. The treatments comprised of the following components. \r\na) Raised Bed cultivation\r\nb) Drip irrigation (80% ER at all stages)\r\nc) Fertigation (75% recommended dose of fertilizers (RDF)) \r\nd) Mulching with 100 micron UV stabilized black polyethylene\r\ne) Micronutrient spray {(ZnSO4 (0.5%) + Boric acid (0.2%)} at alternate months starting from second month. \r\nThe treatment combinations are as follows \r\nT1: a+b+c+d+e\r\nT2: a+b+c+d\r\nT3: a+b+c+e\r\nT4: a + b+ e (100 % recommended dose of fertilizers – Pocket application of fertilizers)\r\nT5: Control (Soil application of a recommended dose of fertilizers, basin irrigation, and no mulching)\r\nThe weather data (Maximum & Minimum temperature, Rainfall, Evaporation, Sunshine hours, and Relative humidity) during the crop growing period were recorded daily to calculate the daily water requirement of the crop for 80% ER (Bhattacharyya and Rao 1985). The water requirement was calculated using the formula given below\r\n(CPE × Kp × Kc × Area ×Wp) – RF, where\r\nCPE: Cumulative Pan Evaporation\r\nRF: Effective Rainfall (mm)\r\nKp: Pan coefficient (0.75 – 0.8) \r\nKc: Crop coefficient (0.75 = initial; 1.10 = Grand growth; 1.00; latter growth)\r\nArea: Spacing of the crop (1.8 x 1.8 m)\r\nWp: Wetting percent (0.4 = wider spacing crop; 0.8 = closer spacing crop) \r\nThe observations on growth, yield, and quality of papaya were recorded to study the integrated effect of fertigation and polythene mulching in TNAU CO 8 papaya.\r\nRESULTS AND DISCUSSION\r\nAmong the treatments, plant biometric traits viz., plant height at time of harvest was the lowest (156.76cm) for the treatment combination of Raised Bed cultivation+ Drip irrigation (80% ER at all stages) + Fertigation (75% RDF) + Mulching with 100 micron UV stabilized black polyethylene and treatment combination of Raised Bed cultivation + Drip irrigation (80% ER at all stages) + Micronutrient spray {(ZnSO4 (0.5%) + Boric acid (0.2%)} recorded 166.00 cm. However, an increase in plant height is not a desirable character for a papaya which reduces the economic life span of the crop. Medium-statured types, bearing fruits at a lower height on the trunk have greater significance in papaya (Singh, 1990). First bearing height is an important parameter, as it reflects on the overall yielding pattern, besides deciding the economic life span of the papaya tree. In the present study, the lowest bearing height (91.38 cm) was observed in Raised Bed cultivation + Drip irrigation (80% ER at all stages) + Fertigation (75% RDF) +Mulching with 100 micron UV stabilized black polyethylene + Micronutrient spray {(ZnSO + (0.5%) + Boric acid (0.2%)} followed by treatment combination of Raised bed cultivation + Drip irrigation (80% ER) + Fertigation (75% RDF) + micronutrient spray ZnSO4 0.5% + boric acid (0.2%) at alternate months (95.71cm). Stem girth in papaya is the indication of vigour that was highest in Raised bed cultivation + Drip irrigation (80% ER) + Fertigation (75% RDF) + micronutrient spray ZnSO4 0.5% + boric acid (0.2%) (36.50 cm). Continuous application of nutrients through fertigation, irrigation, and micronutrients as a foliar spray once in two months might have ensured efficient allocation of nutrients and assimilation for the radial growth of the tree, during which, there is a gradual change in the orientation of phloem ray cells and sieve tubes for improving the bark thickness (Bhalerao et al., 2014; Bisht et al., 2010).\r\nAs far as papaya is concerned, the leaf production and leaf area are important phenomena especially at the time of fruiting, since every leaf is acting as a source of assimilation for all the developing fruits. Petiole girth rather than petiole length is more indicative of the healthiness of the plant (Shekhar et al., 2010; Singh et al., 2010). On the other hand, longer petioles are more advantageous than the shorter ones because the fruits in the central axis could be better exposed to sunlight, necessary for fruit growth and quality (Reddy et al., 1986). In the present study also these vigor indicators for enhancing the papaya production were observed in terms of more number of leaves (33.03), greater leaf area (2198.75 cm2), longer petiole length (75.27 cm), and better petiole girth (8.28 cm) with the application of Raised bed cultivation + Drip irrigation (80% ER) + Fertigation (75% RDF) + micronutrient spray ZnSO4 0.5% + boric acid (0.2%).\r\nThe same treatment combinations also significantly enhanced the fruit yield (73.45 kg/plant and 190.94t/ha) and quality in terms of fruit circumference (54.48 cm), cavity index (48.63), pulp thickness (3.08 cm), and Total Soluble Solids (15.80 brix) with the highest Benefit-Cost Ratio(BCR) of 2.93. On the other hand, the lowest yield (33.64 kg/plant and 87.46 t/ha) with a BCR of 1.54 was recorded in the control where soil application of a recommended dose of fertilizers along with basin irrigation was practiced. The growth and yield enhancement in fertigated plants compared to flood irrigation might be due to a constant and continuous supply of water and nutrients in the soluble form at the root zone ensuring better availability of nutrients as validated by Mahalakshmi et al. (2001); Kavino et al. (2004) in a banana crop. Various studies in papaya authenticated that higher fruit length, diameter, circumference, weight, and volume in drip fertigated plants might be due to the production of more photosynthates from larger leaf areas resulting in better transfer of photosynthates to the sink. Moreover, the present investigation gave an insight into the correlation between the TSS with the frequency of irrigation (Ghanta et al., 1995; Jeyakumar et al., 2001; Modi et al., 2012; Manjunatha et al., 2014). It was observed that there was a general reduction in TSS when irrigation is given at frequent intervals as corroborated by Hegde and Srinivas (1990) in bananas. The treatment T1, wherein the precision practices are similar to T3, but for the addition of plastic mulching recorded the second-best yield ((59.20 kg/plant and 153.92t/ha). The mortality of plants was noticed in the mulching treatment with the incidence of root rot disease (Phytophthora spp.) that escalated due to the continuous soaking of water at the root zone. \r\nSoil nutrient analysis for the treatment of T3 revealed that the organic carbon content (0.31%), available N (179 kg/ha), available K (684 kg/ha), available Cu (4.78 ppm), available Mn (5.05 ppm) and available B (0.92 ppm) were higher as compared to other treatments. The second best treatment, T1 with black polythene mulch along with other practices registered the higher values for available Zn (3.74 ppm) and available Fe (4.98 ppm) contents in the soil. The decomposition of organic residues under plastic mulch adds organic acids to the soil resulting in low soil pH, which might have increased the bioavailability of micronutrients (Purohit, 1977; Mustaffa, 1988). This was also evident from the increased Fe and Zn content in soil under plastic mulch as reported by Tisdale et al. (1990) which implies that the plastic mulch not only eliminates weeds, warm up the soil for cooler seasons and retain soil\'s moisture but also conserves the soil nutrients. Fruit yield was the highest (73.45 kg/plant and 190.94t/ha) in the input combination of Raised bed cultivation + Drip irrigation (80% ER) + Fertigation (75% RDF) + micronutrient spray ZnSO4 0.5% + boric acid (0.2%) at alternate months. The above treatment combination also enhanced the fruit biometric and quality parameters viz., fruit length (41.23cm), fruit circumference (54.48 cm), cavity index (48.63), pulp thickness (3.08 cm), and TSS (15.87°brix) compared to other treatments. The lowest yield (33.64 kg/plant and 87.46 t/ha) was observed in control where the flood irrigation and soil application of fertilizers were practiced. Soil nutrient analysis was improved and the highest organic carbon content (0.31%), available N (179 kg/ha), K (684 kg/ha), Cu (4.78 ppm), Mn (5.05 ppm), and B (0.92 ppm) was observed. The economic efficiency in terms of benefit cost ratio was higher (2.93) for the input combination of Raised bed cultivation + Drip irrigation (80% ER) + Fertigation (75% RDF) + micro nutrient spray ZnSO4 0.5% + boric acid (0.2%) as it improved the fruit yield and quality. On the other hand, plastic mulching treatment combinations were not found suitable for papaya, as it resulted in incidence of root rot disease (Phytophthora spp.) and mortality of the bearing plants, due to prolonged moist condition in the root zone. Leaf nutrient status varied significantly among treatments and did not show a definite pattern which implies further advanced research on this aspect.\r\nLeaf and soil nutrient status. Leaf nutrient status, though varied significantly among treatments, it did not follow a definite trend concerning the treatments. However, T1, the second-best treatment recorded the highest leaf Fe (199.10 ppm), leaf Zn (20.61 ppm), and leaf cu (6.70 ppm), while the highest leaf calcium content (6.40%) was recorded in control (T5) where the basin irrigation was followed.\r\nThe study on precision farming practices in TNAU CO 8papaya revealed that the fruit production was more enhancing the fruit yield (73.45 kg/plant and 190.94t/ha) and quality in the treatment combination, T3 (Raised bed cultivation + Drip irrigation (80% ER) + Fertigation (75% RDF) + micronutrient spray ZnSO4 0.5% + boric acid (0.2%) at alternate months) indicating the efficient use of water and nutrients under the raised bed cultivation. On the other hand, polyethylene mulching proves to be an inefficient technology for papaya as it caused the occurrence of root rot disease (Phytophthora spp.) due to the continuous water soaking in the collar region of the stem. \r\nPrecision farming practices in TNAU CO 8papaya revealed that Raised bed cultivation + Drip irrigation (80% ER) + Fertigation (75% RDF) + micronutrient spray ZnSO4 0.5% + boric acid (0.2%) at alternate months (T3) enhanced the fruit yield (73.45 kg/plant and 190.94t/ha) and quality indicating the efficient use of water and nutrients by the plants. The treatment with polyethylene mulching along with other precision farming techniques as in T3, though recorded higher yield next to T3, not appropriate technique for papaya as it resulted in occurrence of root rot disease (Phytophthora spp.) due to the continuous water soaking in the collar region of the stem.','Auxcilia, J., Sujatha., K.B and Prakash Patil (2022). Precision Farming in Papaya for the Enhancement of Fruit Yield and Quality. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 14(3): 484-489.'),(5304,'136','Impact of Natural and Synthetic Growth Hormones on Shooting of Grape Hardwood Cuttings (Vitis vinifera L) cv. Punjab Macs Purple','Naveen Kumar, Homraj Sahare and Bhavana Beniwal','82 Impact of Natural and Synthetic Growth Hormones on Shooting of Grape Hardwood Cuttings (Vitis vinifera L) cv. Punjab Macs Purple Naveen Kumar.pdf','',1,'The current study was conducted in the agriculture research farm of Lovely Professional University, Punjab during the year of 2021-2022, to assess the Impact of natural and synthetic hormones on rooting of grape cutting (Vitis vinifera L) cv. Punjab Macs Purple. For this experiment, different types of natural and synthetic hormones were used. Disease-free and healthy, seedlings of grapes variety i.e., Punjab Mac Purple were obtained from the Regional Research Station, Bathinda (Punjab). This variety of grapes is commonly used by local farmers. The aloe vera, cinnamon powder, apple cider, honey, IAA, IBA and GA3 used in the experiment. The maximum number of leaves (17.33, 28.66 and 118.33) were found in treatment T9 which is the application of 2000 ppm IBA however in natural growth hormone i.e., 100% aloe vera give maximum number of leaves 16.00, 26.66 and 112.33 at 30, 60 and 90DAP. The maximum leaf length (4.20 cm, 4.43 cm and 7.53 cm) was found in treatment T9 which is the application of 2000 ppm IBA. The application of 100% aloe vera with however in natural growth hormone i.e., 100% aloe vera give maximum length of leaves 4.00 cm, 4.26 cm and 6.03 cm at 30, 60 and 90DAP.The highest fresh weight (52 gm) and dry weight (6.02 gm) were found in treatment T9which is the application of 2000 ppm IBA.','Grape, Hormone, Maximum, IBA, Aloe vera, Punjab Mac Purple','In this study, impact of 14 different treatments of natural (aloe vera, cinnamon powder, honey and apple cider) and synthetic hormone (IBA, IAA and GA3) plant growth regulators in various concentrations was observed on the growth of cuttings of grape (Vitis vinifera L.) cv. Punjab Macs Purple. In the present research, most of the shoot parameters characters of cuttings were significantly influenced by the different treatments of growth regulator as compared to control. But the treatment of 2000 ppm IBA was found best for maximum rooting, growth and success of grapes cuttings. In natural hormone aloe vera treatment gives best result.','INTRODUCTION\r\nThe grape (Vitis vinifera L.) is a fruit crop that belongs to the family Vitaceae, which is related to the northern temperate zone. It is one of the most commercially vital crops in the world. The grape is a woody vine in nature and can grow up to 17m or more. The fruits that plants produce is known as grapes (Kaur, 2017). Grapes contain a very good number of vitamins, minerals and other beneficial elements such as Ca, P, K and sugar. These sugars are basically present in the form of glucose and fructose. The amount of sugar content in grapes varies according to the variety. Grapes are used for various purposes such as for salad, jam & jelly and vinegar preparation. The domesticated type of grape is mostly utilized for selling purposes either for the production of processed products or for wine preparation. European grapes are considered the best ones for raisins, which are categorized according to size, shape and grape color. If we talk about its cultivation, India comes in the first ten countries that produce grapes (Wang et al., 2011). The global production of grapes is estimated at 78,034,332 metric tonnes (FAO, 2020). China, Italy, the USA, France, Spain, Turkey and Argentina are the countries that are the major producers of grapes globally. The leading country is China, with the production of 14,769,088 tonnes (FAO, 2020). In India, production of grapes is 31, 25, 000 MT (FAO, 2020). In India, among all fruits, grapes come in the 7th position and contribute up to 2% of the total production of grapes worldwide (Kaur, 2017). In India, 80% of production is given by Maharashtra and after that by Karnataka and Tamil Nadu. Grapes are one of the flexible crops which can tolerate any type of climate, but the climate of the Mediterranean region is most suitable for its production. In Punjab, around 777 hectares of land are used to cultivate grapes. There are several varieties that have been released and found suitable for Punjab conditions and give maximum productivity, such as Punjab MACS Purple, Perlette, Beauty seedless, etc. \r\nTo fulfill the research gap, shoot and leaves initiation in grape cutting can be achieved by using various hormones and other treatments, including cinnamon powder, aloe vera, apple cider and honey, because they are the cheapest way to propagate and enhance the rooting quality. These growth hormones are easy to use, sustainable and cost effective. By incorporating these, it makes the soil more productive and, as a natural substance, it increases the growth and shoot of cuttings so increase their fresh and dry weight. Cinnamon is a kind of spice that belongs to the Lauraceae family. It is made from the bark of a cinnamon tree. It is mostly used as an aromatic condiment for culinary purposes, especially to enhance the flavor of dishes. It contains the essential oil component cinnamaldehyde along with eugenol, which gives a specific aroma to the dishes. Although it is used as a natural hormone, it also acts as a natural antibacterial and antimicrobial agent (Rajan et al., 2021).\r\nMATERIALS AND METHOD\r\nThe current study was conducted in the agriculture research farm of Lovely Professional University, Punjab during the year of 2021-2022, to assess the Effect of natural and synthetic hormones on rooting of grape cutting (Vitis vinifera L) cv. Punjab Macs Purple. For this experiment, different types of natural and synthetic hormones were used. Materials and methods used in the present experiment have been illustrated in this segment. Disease-free and healthy, seedlings of grapes variety i.e., Punjab Mac Purple were obtained from the Regional Research Station, Bathinda (Punjab). This variety of grapes is commonly used by local farmers. The aloe vera, cinnamon powder, apple cider, honey, IAA, IBA and GA3 (Fig. 1) used in the experiment. Cuttings were quickly planted in plant trainers (after treatment) at 7.5cm deep up to the surface within rooting media. Studies are also operated upon to observe the effect of natural and synthetic growth hormones on rooting of grape cutting e.g. number of leaves, leaf length, fresh weight and dry weight. Find that which concentration or plant growth regulator is responsible for good shooting and others. \r\nMethod of preparation of solution: T9 - IBA 2000 ppm (2 min) – Two gram of balanced IBA was taken in 1000 ml beaker and 1 to 2 drops of ethyl alcohol was added to dissolve the IBA properly. Slowly added distilled water with the help of glass rod IBA was dissolved to make final volume of 1 liter. T1 - Aloe Vera 100% – \r\n1. Harvest aloe vera leaf (2kg for 500ml) after selecting healthy plant. \r\n2. Extract aloe vera gel.a. Cut at harvested point using sharp knife. Keep this part in a beaker. Gel was extracted by cutting the cuticle with a knife. Cuticle was then grinded and added to the beaker. The green rind or cuticle of aloe vera plant and aloe vera outer leaf pulp contains latex was peeled with knife, grinded and put it in the beaker. c. Collect aloe vera gel and put in a beaker. Mix these three parts inside a beaker. Kept it in a refrigerator or kept outside after wrapping with aluminium foil. Kept in a cool place where the sunlight was not directly falling on it.3. Take 100 ml of aloe vera gel in a container or beaker at the time of treatment. T14 - Control - dipping in distilled water – Distilled water was taken in 500 ml beaker. The observations were recorded at three stages such as 30 DAPS, 60 DAP and 90 DAP. The recorded observations of morphological and biochemical parameters and the standard procedure adopted during the course of study are given Plate 1.\r\nRESULT AND DISCUSSION\r\nNumber of leaves (no.). Data regards to the impact of natural and synthetic growth hormones on number of leaves, and survival percentage of cuttings was showed in table 1. The data on number of leaves was recorded and showed that the treatment T9 with the application of 2000 ppm IBA shows a maximum no. of leaves (17.33) followed by the treatment T1 which is the application 100% aloe vera with (16). The least no. of leaves was found in the treatment T3 which is the application of 100% apple cider with (5.00) at 30DAP. At 60DAP, the maximum no. of leaves (28.66) was found in the treatment T9 with the application of 2000 ppm IBA followed by the treatment T1 (26.66) with the application of 100% aloe vera. The least no. of leaves was found in the treatment T3 which is the application of 100% apple cider with (7.33). At, 90DAP, the maximum no. of leaves was found in the treatment T9 (118.33) with the application of 2000 ppm IBA followed by the treatment T1 (112.33) with the application of 100% aloe vera as compared to control (13.33). The number of leaves increased in treatment T9 (2000 ppm IBA) might be due to the in development of root IBA plays an important role and automatically this effect is shown in leaf length and leaf number and an increase in number of shoots due to IBA application may necessitate the increased activity of photosynthesis, transpiration and respiration in leaves and thus may result in the increase in number of leaves this result was supported by Jan et al. (2015); Wahab et al. (2001); Muttulani et al., (2022).\r\nLeaf length (cm). Data on leaf length is presented in Table 2 indicating that the treatments significantly control the leaf length over the control. Treatment T9 with the application of 2000 ppm IBA shows maximum leaf length (4.20 cm) followed by the treatment T1 (Aloe vera, 4 cm). Moreover, the least leaf length (2.36 cm) was found in the treatment T3 (Apple Cider) at 30DAP. At 60DAP, the maximum leaf length (4.43 cm) was found in the treatment T9 with the application of 2000 ppm IBA followed by the treatment T1 (Aloe vera, 4.26cm). Moreover, the least leaf length (2.00 cm) was found in the treatment T3 (Apple Cider). At, 90DAP, the maximum leaf length (7.53 cm) was found in the treatment T9 with the application of 2000 ppm IBA followed by the treatment T1 (Aloe vera, 6.03cm). Moreover, the least leaf length (2.36 cm) was found in the treatment T3 (Apple Cider). An increasing trend in length of leaves were observed from 30, 60 and 90 DAP respectively. The length of leaves increased in treatment T9 (2000 ppm IBA) might be due to the development of root IBA plays an important role and automatically this effect is shown in leaf length and leaf number and an increase in number of shoots due to IBA application may necessitate the increased activity of photosynthesis, transpiration and respiration in leaves and thus may result in the increase in length of leaves by (Wahab et al., 2001) in Guava. Similar results also recorded by (Jan et al., 2015) in olive cuttings. Length of leaves also increased in Aloe Vera gel treated grape cuttings, it might be due to Aloe Vera contains very essential number of macronutrients, micronutrients, vitamins, gibberellins and salicylic acid and has a stimulating effect on plant growth and development. Aloe Vera gel contains IAA which could be the alternative root hormone (Uddin et al., 2020). Similar results also recorded by (Hamouda et al., 2012).\r\nFresh weight and Dry weight (gm). Data on fresh weight is presented in Table 3 indicated that the treatments significantly control the fresh weight over the control. The data on fresh weight showed that the maximum fresh weight was observed in the treatment T9 which is the application of 2000 ppm IBA with (52 gm) followed by the treatment T1 which is the application of 100% of aloe vera juice with 45.33 gm. The least fresh weight was found in the treatment T3 with the application of 100% apple cider vinegar with 10.66 gm as compared to control. This result was supported by Galavi et al. (2013) as they stated that fresh weight was increased by the application of IBA @400g/ml. Data on dry weight is presented in Table 3 indicated that the treatments significantly control the dry weight over the control. The data on dry weight showed that the maximum dry weight was observed in the treatment T9 which is the application of 2000 ppm IBA with (6.02 gm) followed by the treatment T1 which is the application of 100% of aloe vera juice with 5.30 gm. The least dry weight was found in the treatment T8 with the application of 1000 ppm IBA with 2.30 gm as compared to control. This result was supported by Galavi et al. (2013) as they stated that fresh weight was increased by the application of IBA @600g/ml.\r\n','Naveen Kumar, Homraj Sahare and Bhavana Beniwal (2022). Impact of Natural and Synthetic Growth Hormones on Shooting of Grape Hardwood Cuttings (Vitis vinifera L) cv. Punjab Macs Purple. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 14(3): 490-494.'),(5305,'136','Diversity Analysis of Mycoflora Associated with Maize Seeds Collected from different Regions of Tamil Nadu','G. Sivakaame, T. Anand, V. Paranidharan and C. Vanitha','83 Diversity Analysis of Mycoflora Associated with Maize Seeds Collected from different Regions of Tamil Nadu T. Anand.pdf','',1,'Maize is one of the most important cereal crops in the world and has been titled \"The Queen of cereals\". The yield of the maize crop is being hampered by different biotic and abiotic factors, among which post-harvest and storage infection plays a significant role. Hence, in the present study, we focused on assessing the mycoflora associated with the seed surface, which is responsible for the post-harvest losses by using the standard seed blotter method. The results revealed that the presence of eight fungal species belonging to six fungal genera was found to be associated with the seed of maize. Aspergillus spp., accounts for 86.3 percent of the total mycoflora population among the six fungal genera. The other genera include Fusarium, Penicillium, Rhizopus, Alternaria and Macrophomina. The results of the Relative Density (RD) study revealed that Penicillium, Rhizopus, Alternaria and Macrophomina come under rare fungal species and the most abundant species were A. niger, A. flavus and A. fumigatus. As per Edwino Fernando’s Ranking of Biodiversity Indices, the Shannon-Weiner index (H) was less than 1.9, which indicates that the diversity of mycoflora is shallow, whereas Simpson\'s index was more than 0.56 in all locations except in Perambalur. The evenness value was more than 0.5 in all the sites, indicating that the species distribution is even. Beta-diversity was measured (paired comparison) and there was no similarity between sites.','Aspergillus, diversity, Fusarium, maize, mycoflora, seeds','The results obtained from this current study are of prime importance to seed certification agencies to prevent post-harvest losses. Colonization of these fungal genera viz., Aspergillus, Fusarium, Penicillium etc. renders them unfit for human consumption due to their mycotoxin producing properties. This affects both the economy and the health of the human population. ','Maize seeds harbormany ectophytic and endophytic microbiomes including fungi, bacteria and actinomycetes. Several ectophytic mycoflora isolated were Aspergillus, Fusarium verticillioides, F. proliferatum, F. glutinans, Gibberella zeae, Penicillium, Macrophomina phaseolina, Diplodia, Nigrospora, Botryosphaeria, Cladosporium, Trichoderma, Rhizoctonia, and Rhizopus (Bhatnagar et al., 1999). Mycoflora infection in maize seeds causesa reduction in germination various abnormalities and leads to rejection (Singh et al., 2021). Storage fungus infects the seeds as they are moved into storage and, in the right circumstances, can quickly spread throughout the bulk. These fungi develop on maize seeds; they become visible, can kill the seed, generate an unpleasant odor or taste, and occasionally the seeds are unfit for human eating because the seed fungi release mycotoxin along with a change in the chemical makeup of the seed (Ingle et al., 2021). Mycoflora associated with maize seed are members of Aspergillus spp., Fusarium spp., and Penicillium spp., and these are mycotoxin producing fungi. Aspergillus spp., produces various mycotoxins and aflatoxin B1 is extremelytoxic andis classified as a group Ia human carcinogenic by the International Agency for Research on Cancer, in addition to considerable economic losses in the food and agricultural sectors. A study on fungal species diversity is one of the most important indices used to evaluate an ecosystem. Several diversity indices such as population dynamics, species richness, evenness, dominance of mycoflora, etc. are used. Usually, fungal species diversity is one of the most important indices used for the evaluation of an ecosystem. Fungal species richness, an intuitive element of fungal diversity, is commonly used to compare habitats, as species diversity is usually assumed to reflect niche diversity when limiting similarity drives species coexistence (Silvertown, 2004). Fungal diversity can change because of time, climate, biota, topography, natural disturbance, or human-caused perturbation and contamination (Day et al., 2019). For these reasons, there’s an interest in developing approaches to predict various facets of fungal diversity and how it is likely to change over space and time in natural and managed ecosystems. Alpha diversity reveals the biodiversity component of the community and whereas beta diversity reveals how it changes across locations. Understanding the compositional pattern of species helps researchers to understand different aspects of species interaction and ecosystem function (Legendre, 2014). Beta diversity patterns provide knowledge about the uniqueness of community composition in the landscape. Keeping this in view, the present investigation was designed to study the diversity of mycoflora of maize seeds collected from different maize growing areas of Tamil Nadu.\r\nMATERIALS AND METHODS\r\nCollection of seed samples. Maize seed samples were collected in ten locations covering major maize growing areas of Tamil Nadu that include Virudhunagar, Namakkal, Tiruppur, Madurai, Dharmapuri, Salem, Oddanchathiram, Ariyalur, Perambalur and Dindigul. One kg of seed samples were collected directly from maize growing farmers and seed sellers. In each location, seeds were collected in five different areas and the seeds were homogenized to represent one location. These homogenized seeds were subjected to mycoflora assessment in the Department of Plant Pathology, Tamil Nadu Agricultural University (TNAU), Coimbatore, Tamil Nadu.\r\nMycoflora assessment. Mycoflora on maize seeds was assessed by the standard blotter method (De Tempe, 1963). One Hundred seeds from each location placed inplastic Petri dishes (90 mm dia.) lined with two layers of blotter papers and one layer of filter paper moistened with distilled water. Ten seeds will be placed in each Petri dish equidistantly (pattern 9-1). The seeded Petri dishes were incubated at 25 ± 1°C for seven days and the seeds were examined regularly for the presence of different fungi. Incubated seeds were examined visually under a Stereo-zoom microscope for the growth pattern of mycoflora (Kumar et al., 2017). \r\nMorphological identification of fungal genera. Individual fungal colonies which were observed under a stereo-zoom microscope were subcultured in potato dextrose agar medium. The fungal colonies were further purified by the single hyphal tip method. These pure cultures were then subjected to microscopic observation for morphological identification of the fungal species. Fungal genera were confirmed by both cultural and morphological characters.\r\nComputation of Diversity Indices \r\nBased on the individuals, fungi recorded in the distinct seed samples were analyzed for species richness and species distribution, evenness, alpha-diversity and beta-diversity.\r\nShannon-Weiner index (H’) and Simpson’s index were widely used to describe the α-diversity.\r\nComputation of Relative Density\r\nThe Relative Density (RD) of fungal species and genera was calculated according to the method suggested by Tadych et al. (2012).\r\n\"Relative Density (RD) (%)\" = ni/Ni x 100\r\nWhere,\r\nni is the number of genus or species isolated,\r\nNi is the total number of isolates.\r\nComputation of α-diversity. Alpha diversity can be found by calculating three parameters like Shannon –Wiener Diversity Index, Species Evenness Index and Simpson Diversity Index (D). The formulas for computing the above three parameters are as follows:\r\nSimpson Diversity Index (D). The Simpson Diversity Index represents the species diversity in a particular location\r\n\"Simpson Diversity Index (D)\" = (∑ n (n-1) )/(N(N-1))\r\nWhere,\r\nn is the total number of individuals in a particular species \r\nN is the total number of individuals\r\n\"Shannon –Wiener Diversity Index (H’)\" = ∑_(i=1)^s▒〖p_i ln⁡〖p_i 〗 〗\r\nWhere,\r\nPi (relative abundance) is equal to ni/N \r\nni is the number of individuals in ith species \r\nN is the total number of individuals (Shannon and Weaver, 1963)\r\n\"Species Evenness Index\"= (H’)/ln⁡(R) \r\nWhere,\r\nH’ is the Shannon Wiener Index – ranging from 0 to 6.\r\nR is the species richness which is also equivalent to s (the number of species found in the given area).\r\nThe next step is to proceed with ranking the values obtained for each index. In this paper, Fernando’s Biodiversity Scale was used to rank the indices (Table 1).\r\nComputation of β – Diversity. Beta diversity refers to the species diversity between any two regions. It is used for large-scale comparison of species diversity. β-diversity was calculated by using the following formula given by Fontana et al. (2020).\r\n\"β-diversity = (\" \"N\" _\"1\" \"-C )\\+(\" \"N\" _\"2\" \"-C)\" \r\nWhere,\r\nN1 refers to the total number of species present in location 1\r\nN2 refers to the total number of species present in location 2\r\nC refers to the number of species that both locations have in common\r\nStatistical analysis. Various diversity indices (α-Diversity, β-Diversity) were calculated, and graphs were drawn using ‘PAST’ software.\r\nRESULTS AND DISCUSSION\r\nMycoflora assessment. Maize seeds collected from different maize growing areas of Tamil Nadu were used to assess the fungal diversity. A total of 803 fungal isolates belonging to ten different species were observed, out of which five belong to the genus Aspergillus, contributing 86.3 percent of the total fungal population. The fungal population was dominated by Aspergillus spp., followed by Fusarium spp., (6.23%). Other fungal genera recorded in the present study were Penicillium spp., (4.23%), Rhizopus spp., (2.37%), Alternaria spp., (0.37%) and Macrophomina (0.50%) (Data not shown; Fig. 1). The fungal genera were identified based on the following various cultural and morphological characters.\r\nAspergillus flavus. The fungus produced olive or dark green colonies with profuse sporulation. Mycelium is hyaline, septate and branched. It produced circular single-celled green colored conidia arranged in chains from the biseriate phialide arising from the conidiophore (Fig. 2a).\r\nAspergillus niger. The fungus had dark brown to black colonies with enormous sporulation. Mycelium is hyaline, septate and branched. Conidiophores were smooth, aseptate and unbranched. Biseriate conidial heads produced smooth black colored conidia in chains (Fig. 2b).\r\nAspergillus fumigates. Initially, A. fumigatus produced white colonies, which later turned into dark bluish green colonies. They produced columnar conidial heads and uniseriate conidiophores. Conidia were globose, bluish green colored and were produced in basipetal succession (Fig. 2c).\r\nAspergillus tamarii. Aspergillus tamarii produced olive green to brown colored colonies. Mycelium is hyaline, septate and branched. Conidiophores were colorless and biseriate in nature. Conidia were spherical and smooth surfaced in nature (Fig. 2d).\r\nPenicillium. Colonies were initially white and became bluish green upon full growth. The margins of the colonies were wavy and concentric rings were visible. On the reverse side of the plate, the colonies were red or pink-tinged at the center and the margin. Conidiophores were either branched or unbranched with metulae at the end. Metulae produced sterigmata in which the conidia were arranged. Conidium was small, uninucleate, globose or ovoid (Fig. 2e).\r\nFusarium. Fusarium produced white fluffy colonies with violet to purple colored mycelium and brown zonation. Sickle-shaped septate macroconidia were observed. Both terminal and intercalary chlamydospores were observed. Chlamydospores were thick and smooth-walled.\r\nRhizopus. Rhizopus produced dark greyish brown fluffy colonies. Simple globose sporangia were observed at the end of sporangiophores. Each sporangiophore arises from the root like a rhizoid. Sporangiospores were dark single-celled and globose to ovoid.\r\nMacrophomina. Colonies were dull white initially and turned to dark brown colored colonies upon time. Mycelium is septateand hyaline at initial stages but turns light brown upon growth. Dark brown colored, oval to spherical microsclerotia were produced by hardening of the fungal mycelium.\r\nAlternaria. Alternaria produced dull white to olive-colored colonies with white margins. Conidiophores were simple, septate, smooth walled and pale brown. Conidia were short, obclavate or ovoid with both transverse and longitudinal septa.\r\nThis finding is in line with the work of Tsedaley and Adugna (2016), who recovered 110 fungal isolates from three maize varieties and the major fungi observed were Aspergillus, Fusarium and Penicillium. Aspergillus, Fusarium, Penicillium, Bipolaris maydis, Alternaria, Cephalosporium, Macrophomina, Diplodia, Nigrospora, Botryosphaeria, Cladosporium, Trichoderma, Rhizoctonia and Mucor have been reported from maize seed (Kumar et al., 2017). El-Shanshoury et al. (2004) isolated and identified eight fungal genera that belonged to Aspergillus, Penicillium, Fusarium, Mucor, Cladosporium, Trichoderma, Rhizopus and Alternaria using the standard blotter paper method. Mairevi et al. (2012) isolated Penicillium, Aspergillus, Alternaria and Fusarium from maize seed. Getachew et al. (2018) isolated Penicillium, Aspergillus and Fusarium from maize seeds collected from South and Southwestern Ethiopia. \r\nRelative Density (RD). In terms of Relative Density (RD), A. niger was dominant an RD% of 30, followed by A. flavus (27%) and A. fumigatus (20%) (Fig. 3). Aspergillus niger, A. flavus, A. tamarii and A. fumigates were observed in all locations (Fig. 4). A. oryzae was observed only in 4 locations. Fusarium spp., was observed in all the locations except in Virudhunagar region. Penicillium spp., was observed in 5 locations, Rhizopus spp., and Macrophomina each in 3 locations, and Alternaria spp., was observed in 2 locations. A higher number of mycoflora (118) was observed in Tirupur, followed by Dharmapuri (110). In other locations, it ranged from 44-102.\r\nα-Diversity. Shannon-Weiner (H’) explains the influence of abundance. As per Edwino Fernando’s Ranking of Biodiversity Indices, the Shannon index was less than 1.9 in all locations. In all locations, diversity was very low, hence mycoflora abundance was absent (Table 1). The highest Simpson’s index of 0.8019 was observed in the Ariyalur region, representing the highest dominance of mycoflora. \r\nThe evenness index values were more than 0.5 in all the locations, which infers that species distribution is even (Table 2). Richness represents the number of species at a region or location. The highest species richness of about 8 was observed in Ariyalur;7 in Madurai and Dindigul; and 6 in Virudhunagar, Namakkal, Tiruppur, Dharmapuri, Oddanchathiram and Perambalur (Fig. 5). \r\nβ-Diversity. Beta-diversity is diversity between sites (paired comparison) and it essentially quantifies the number of different communities in the region. Thus, it is the region\'s absolute number of distinct components (Tuomisto, 2010). Virudhunagar was 50% related to Oddanchathiram and Perambalur. Pairwise comparison between locations gave high dissimilarity since the values were less than 0.5. Low values suggest that there was no spatial variability in the distribution of mycoflora (Table 3).\r\nGenevieve et al. (2019) studied the difference in fungal composition between forest stands analyzed with permutational multivariate analysis of variance and beta-diversity partitioning analyses. The most prevalent fungi belonged to the orders Agaricales, Helotiales, and Russulales, while sites from Abitibi-North Témiscamingue\'s showed the highest OTU (Operational Taxonomic Unit) richness. Kumar et al. (2017) reported that the Simpson index of dominance (D), Shannon-Weaver index of diversity (H) and Evenness (E) of Aspergillus flavus contributed to fungal diversity. The dominance of mycoflora species varied from place to place and was influenced by various environmental factors, variety, cultivation method and soil, etc. \r\n','G. Sivakaame, T. Anand, V. Paranidharan and C. Vanitha (2022). Diversity Analysis of Mycoflora Associated with Maize Seeds Collected from Different Regions of Tamil Nadu. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 14(3): 495-500.'),(5306,'136','Influence of Physico-chemical properties of Soil on the Abundance of White Grub in Garden Land Ecosystem','S. Venkateswaran, R. Arulprakash, N. Chitra, R. Jagadeeswaran and T. Ramasubramanian','84 Influence of Physico-chemical properties of Soil on the Abundance of White Grub in Garden Land Ecosystem S. Venkateswaran.pdf','',1,'The subterranean nature of white grubs brings a serious issue to crop production and causing heavy economic losses to commercial crops. A study has been conducted to understand the influence of soil physico-chemical properties on the abundance of white grubs in garden land ecosystem. Exploratory surveys were conducted in two districts of Tamil Nadu viz., Erode (Sathyamangalam block) and Thoothukudi (Kayathar block). Adult white grubs were collected by soil excavation from the fields of bhendi, maize, sorghum, blackgram, sugarcane, jasmine and tuberose. Soil samples were also collected from the above locations. Morphological examination revealed the occurrence of Holotrichia serrata and Adoretus sp. Adult abundance and soil physico-chemical properties were correlated. Bulk density, electrical conductivity and soil organic carbon had positive relation with Holotrichia serrata abundance whereas particle density, porosity and pH exhibited negative relation. In case of Adoretus sp, negative correlation was observed between bulk density, porosity and electrical conductivity and its abundance. The parameters viz., particle density, pH and soil organic carbon had positive relation with Adoretus abundance. H. serrata and Adoretus sp prefers hard and loose texture soils, respectively. ','White grubs, garden land, Holotrichia serrata, Adoretus sp, abundance, soil properties, correlation','The study revealed the occurrence and abundance of H. serrata and Adoretus sp in garden land crops of Erode (Sathyamangalam block) and Thoothukudi (Kayathar block) districts. With respect to soil physico-chemical parameters, bulk density and soil porosity had a positive and negative association with H. serrata abundance, respectively. In case of Adoretus sp, both parameters exhibited negative relationship. Hence it can be concluded that, H. serrata prefers loamy to hard texture and can penetrate to a moderately deep of the soil to feed the roots of crops whereas Adoretus sp prefers shallow depth and moderately loamy to light textured soil. However, both species require organic matter for survival and abundance. Furthermore, soil moisture and precipitation play a role in the emergence and dispersal of the white grub population.','INTRODUCTION\r\nWhite grubs are the pest of national importance in India (Mehta et al., 2010). They belong to the two subfamilies viz., Melolonthinae and Rutelinae of the family Scarabaeidae under the order Coleoptera. In India, occurrence of more than 1700 species of white grubs have been reported (Ali, 2001). Due to the subterranean nature, white grubs cause remarkable damage to the roots of several agricultural and horticultural crops. The damage and can be visualized by drying, wilting and withering of plants in patches (Rai et al., 1969). Many times, the infestation is misunderstood with physiological wilting and detected only after complete destruction of crops. The grubs are “C” shaped, fleshy with three pairs of thoracic legs (Sreedevi et al., 2014). The first instar grub feeds on soil debris rich in organic matter whereas later instars are phytophagous and feed voraciously on roots. Grubs exploits the roots of sugarcane, groundnut, potato, maize, pearl millet, wheat, sorghum and barley; whereas adults feed on leaves of bhendi, neem, acacia, grapes etc., (Fujiie et al., 1996; Ranga Rao et al., 2006). Active adult emergence of most species coincides with monsoon showers (Yadava and Sharma 1995). The impact of soil properties on the abundance of white grub population is lacking in Tamil Nadu, so a study on the effect of physicochemical properties on distribution and abundance was undertaken in the districts of Erode and Thoothukudi in Tamil Nadu.\r\nMATERIALS AND METHODS\r\nStudy site. An exploratory survey was conducted from December 2021 to April 2022 in two districts of Tamil Nadu to collect white grub adults associated with garden land crops. The details of the sampling area are given in Table 1.\r\nAdult sampling. Each location sampled once in a square meter area delineated in five places on a one-acre crop area. Adult white grubs were collected by excavation of soil (50 - 60 cm deep) in the crop ecosystem and also from the emergence sites. In Kayathar block, adult collections were made from the bhendi, maize, sorghum and black gram fields and in Sathyamangalam block, adults were collected from sugarcane, jasmine and tuberose fields.\r\nIdentification of adults. Adult white grub identification was done by following keys of Arrow (1917) and Dadmal (2013)\r\nSoil physico-chemical analysis. In both locations, soil samples were collected by following the methodology of Cherry and Allsopp (1991). Samples collected from 50 × 50 cm area up to a depth of 40 cm. A representative sample of 500g soil was collected from each sampling site.\r\nSoil physical parameters such as texture, bulk density, particle density, porosity and chemical properties such as pH, electrical conductivity and soil organic carbon, surface soil organic matter and sub surface soil organic matter were analyzed at Soil Science Laboratory, Department of Remote sensing and GIS, TNAU, Coimbatore. The details of the methods used for analysis are presented in Table 2.\r\nStatistical analysis. Mean adult population transformed by square root transformation (√(2&X+0.5)) (Gomez and Gomez, 1984). To understand the influence of soil physico-chemical parameters on adult white grub abundance, correlation and regression studies were performed.\r\nRESULTS AND DISCUSSION\r\nMorphological characterization of white grub adults, collected in the study, revealed the occurrence of Holotrichia serrata (Fabricius) (Melolonthinae; Scarabaeidae; Coleoptera) and Adoretus sp (Rutelinae; Scarabaeidae; Coleoptera) in Erode and Thoothukudi districts, respectively. \r\nAbundance of white grub species and physico-chemical properties of soil collected from Erode and Thoothukudi districts are presented in Table 3 and 5, respectively. Results of correlation performed between adult white grub population and soil physico-chemical properties are given in Table 4 and 6, respectively. Figures 1–12 depict a regression study between the mean adult population of Holotrichia serrata and Adoretus sp with each physicochemical parameter.\r\nBulk density of soil exhibited positive and negative relation with H. serrata (r = -0.268) and Adoretus sp (r = 0.368) abundance, respectively. The results are in accordance with the findings of Pujari et al. (2018) and Pal (1997). Pujari (2018) concluded that bulk density had a negative (significant) relationship with the average population of Lepidiota mansueta Burmeister larvae, whereas clay and silt content had a positive (non-significant) relationship with larval population as well as the report validating the textural preferences of Holotrichia serrata. Pal (1997) documented that population of white grubs influenced by coarse texture and low precipitation of rainfall, and the study corroborating those textural preferences of adults of Adoretus sp. Particle density of soil non significantly affecting the both the population but, positive relationship with Adoretus sp (Table 6) and negative relationship with Holotrichia serrata (Table 4).\r\nSoil porosity had a significant negative correlation (r = - 0.995) with abundance of Adoretus sp and non-significant negative correlation (r = -0.643) with H. serrata abundance. Both species preferred loam, sandy loam and silt loam soils. Earlier findings indicated that white grubs’ oviposition (Potter, 1983; Allsopp, 1992) and migration of larvae depend on the proportion of soil particles (Gustin and Schumacher, 1989). Chemical parameters such as pH and Electrical Conductivity (EC) had negative and positive correlation (non-significant) with H. serrata abundance whereas vice-versa was observed for Adoretus sp. \r\nSoil organic content was found to be positively linked with the abundance of both species of white grubs, acting as a facilitating factor. Present findings are analogous with Cherry and Coale (1994), they reported that Tomarus subtropicus Blatchley positively correlated with organic matter of the soil. Afore mentioned parameter also determines the feeding nature of Dasylepida ishigakiensis (Niijima and Kinoshita) (Oyafuso et al., 2002) and tunneling depth of Phyllophaga ephilida Say (Diagne 2004).\r\n','S. Venkateswaran, R. Arulprakash, N. Chitra, R. Jagadeeswaran and T. Ramasubramanian (2022). Influence of Physico-chemical properties of Soil on the Abundance of White Grub in Garden Land Ecosystem. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 14(3): 501-509.'),(5307,'136','Effect of Seed Moisture on Incidence of Pulse Beetle, Callosobruchus chinensis (L.) infestation in Popular Pigeonpea Cultivars Grown in Telangana','Gangambika A.S., A. Padmasri, K. Parimala and M. Mohibbe Azam','85 Effect of Seed Moisture on Incidence of Pulse Beetle, Callosobruchus chinensis (L.) infestation in Popular Pigeonpea Cultivars Grown in Telangana Gangambika A.S.pdf','',1,'The most important factors influencing seed quality and longevity during its storage are temperature, seed moisture content and relative humidity. Among them the seed moisture content plays a key role. High seed moisture is detrimental to seed quality that causes predisposing the seeds to pest infestation and pathogen attack, that results in rapid deterioration of seeds and ultimately poor crop stand in field. So, an experiment was conducted to evaluate the effect of seed moisture content on pulse beetle, Callosobruchus chinensis (L.) infestation in two popular pigeonpea cultivars grown in Telangana, PRG 176 and TDRG 4. These varieties were tested in hermatic bags (Super grain bags) at three different moisture regimes (9%, 11% and 13%) at Seed Entomology Laboratory, Seed Research and Technology Centre and Department of Seed Science and Technology, College of Agriculture Rajendranagar, PJTSAU, Hyderabad, Telangana during 2021-22. The experiment was laid out in two factor factorial experiment based on completely randomized design (CRD). Data on adult emergence, per cent seed damage and per cent weight loss was taken at two months interval for a period of six months. The results revealed that per cent seed damage observed in PRG 176 and TDRG 4 was 0.34% and 0.06%, respectively. With respect to seed moisture levels the highest (0.38%) pulse beetle infestation was recorded at 13% followed by 11% (0.22%) and least in 9% moisture level. These findings evidenced that seeds with low moisture content helps in reducing insect infestation and retaining seed quality of pigeonpea seed for long duration.','Pigeonpea, Seed moisture content, Callosobruchus chinensis (L.), PRG 176, TDRG ','The study found that seeds stored at low moisture level i.e. 9% moisture showed lowest pulse beetle infestation and maintain the physical quality of pigeonpea seeds better than seeds stored at high moisture level (11% and 13%). Hence maintaining the low moisture content contributes in reduced pulse beetle infestation thus helps in maintaining better vigour and viability of seeds. In the present study it was observed that PRG 176 was most susceptible to pulse beetle infestation than TDRG 4. Since pigeonpea seeds are orthodox seeds their moisture content can be lowered further to safe moisture levels for better storage life, thus helps in maintaining good vigour and germinablity.','INTRODUCTION\r\nPigeonpea (Cajanus cajan (L.) Millsp.) commonly known as redgram, tur or arhar is a very old well known crop of this country as its domestication in the Indian subcontinent is of 3500 years ago. After gram, arhar is the second most important pulse crop in country. In Telangana, pigeonpea is being cultivated in array of soils under erratic distribution of rainfall cultivation occupying area, production, and productivity of 2.95 lakh hectares, 2.07 lakh tones and 701 kg ha-1, respectively (DES Telagana 2019-20). It is the major crop grown in Mahbubnagar, Adilabad, Rangareddy, Medak, Nalgonda, Warangal and Kammam districts of Telangana.\r\nThe important storage pest of pigeonpea is Callosobruchus chinensis (L.). In storage, adults are facultative aphagous and they depend entirely on resources acquired during larval stages for survival and reproduction (Stearns, 1992). In case of heavy infestation by Callosobruchus chinensis, the seeds lose their germination capacity and if exploited as grains, they become unfit for human consumption. In addition to quantitative losses, the Callosobruchus chinensis also causes qualitative losses (Khare and Johari 1984). In most cases pest infestation pre-dispose the stored grains to secondary attack by disease causing pathogens.\r\nThe most important factors influencing seed quality and longevity during its storage are temperature, seed moisture content and relative humidity. Among them the seed moisture content plays a key role. Since seeds are hygroscopic in nature and the moisture content of the seed changes in accordance to the relative humidity of the surrounding environment in which they are stored. In tropical climate, high temperature and humidity cause rapid deterioration of seed in open storage resulting predisposing to pest infestation and pathogen attack, further which leads to loss in vigour, viability and germination percentage which results in poor plant stand in main field.\r\nGenerally, the moisture content of the pigeonpea seeds harvested at physiological maturity is high. For safe seed storage the moisture content need to be brought down to 9-10%, since these are orthodox seeds their moisture content can be further reduced so as to improve their storage life. Hence the present experiment was taken up to determine the effect of seed moisture content on incidence of pulse beetle, Callosobruchus chinensis infestation on two majorly grown pigeonpea cultivars (PRG 176 and TDRG 4) in Telangana.\r\nMATERIALS AND METHODS\r\nThe experiment was conducted in the Seed Entomology Laboratory, Seed Research and Technology Centre and Department of Seed Science and Technology, College of Agriculture Rajendranagar, PJTSAU, Hyderabad, Telangana during 2021-22. The experiment was conducted in Two Factorial Completely Randomized Design (FCRD) with three different seed moisture levels and two popular pigeonpea cultivars as two factors and with three replications. The two popular pigeonpea cultivars grown in Telangana i.e TDRG 4 and PRG 176 were procured from Agricultural Research Station Tandur and Agricultural Research Station Palem, respectively later these were disinfested by sundrying for four days.\r\n V1 : PRG 176\r\n V2 : TDRG 4\r\nThe moisture content of each variety were maintained at 9%, 11% and 13% moisture level by adding predetermined quantity of water to the seeds according to the formulae given by El-Rafie 1958. Later the seeds were kept in hermetic bags.\r\n S1 : 9%\r\n S2 : 11% \r\n S3 : 13% \r\nSeeds of each cultivar TDRG 4 and PRG 176 were stored in moisture and vapour proof bags (GrainPro bags) at three different moisture levels (9%, 11% and 13%) by adapting standard procedure. For each replication of the treatment, twenty five pairs of newly emerged adult pulse beetle were released into GrainPro bags containing five Kg seed and allowed to copulate. The bags were labelled accordingly and kept in laboratory at ambient room condition. The influence of seed moisture content on incidence of pulse beetle was assessed based on data recorded at bimonthly intervals upto six months of storage period on parameters like adult emergence, per cent seed damage and per cent weight loss due to pulse beetle, Callosobruchus chinensis (L.) infestation.\r\nAdult emergence. The number of adult emerged was counted at two months interval for a period of six months.\r\nPer cent seed damage. The seed damage was calculated by taking a random sample of 400 seeds and counting the number of seeds with bored holes made by pulse beetle and converted to percentage. \r\n \r\nPer cent weight loss. The count and weight method was used to determine seed weight loss using the formula:\r\n \r\n Where,\r\n W  Weight loss (%)\r\n Wu  Weight of undamaged seed(grams)\r\n Nu  Number of undamaged seed,\r\n Wd  Weight of damaged seed (grams)\r\n Nd  Number of damaged seed.\r\nRESULT AND DISCUSSION\r\nEffect of seed moisture on adult emergence from pigeon seeds. The results obtained from the studies on the effect of seed moisture levels (9%, 11% and 13%) on number of adults emerged from pigeonpea seeds of two popular cultivars which were artificially inoculated with C. chinensis (L.) are presented in Table 1. \r\nAt two months of storage, as observed from data mean number of adult emerged showed significant difference between the varieties, the highest mean number of adult emerged (9.89) was recorded in PRG 176 and the lowest (7.67) in TDRG 4. The number of adult emerged showed increasing trend with increase in moisture level as the mean number of adult emerged were 3.50, 8.83 and 14.00 at 9%, 11% and 13% moisture level, respectively irrespective of varieties. The interaction effect between two cultivars and different moisture levels revealed that PRG 176 showed maximum number of adults emerged (15.00) at 13% moisture level and minimum (2.00) in TDRG 4, at 9% moisture level. Similar trend was observed in four and six months after storage. From the perusal of data on six months after storage, the population buildup of pulse beetle showed further decreasing trend compared to two and four months after storage.\r\nAt each moisture levels significant higher insect population was found in PRG 176 than TDRG 4, inferred that PRG 176 was most susceptible than TDRG 4. During the experimental period noticeable insect population was observed at two months after storage but along the storage period the adult emergence showed decreasing trend, the population buildup was low at hermetic storage condition. The reduction could be attributed to high carbon dioxide concentration generated within the containers throughout the storage period and also due to high temperature (42°C) and lower relative humidity (65%) encountered during storage period, that accelerated the carbon dioxide toxicity.\r\nThe present findings are in accordance with Navarro (2012) who reported that the lower the grain moisture content and the low intergranular humidity, higher will be the mortality due to the desiccation effect on insects caused by low O2 or elevated CO2 concentrations further, atmospheres with 60 % CO2 and 8 % O2 are very effective against internal seed-feeding insects. (Banks and Annis 1990).\r\nLow moisture content in grains caused a dehydrating effect on the immature stages of insect development, since insects require the moisture within the grain in order to mature and reproduce (Oxley and Wickenden (1963) and Calderon and Navarro (1980)).\r\nThe results are also supported by findings of Mudrock (2012) who reported that under hermatic storage, low oxygen (hypoxia) and elevated levels of carbon dioxide (hypercarbia) leads to cessation of larval feeding, that arrests the growth and development and thus reproduction rate is also affected. \r\nEffect of seed moisture on per cent seed damage caused by pulse beetle, Callosobruchus chinensis (L.). The results obtained from the effect of seed moisture levels (9%, 11% and 13%) on per cent seed damage caused by C. chinensis (L.) in pigeonpea seeds of two popular cultivars are presented in Table 2.\r\nAfter two months of storage, the mean per cent seed damage showed significant difference between two varieties, as mean per cent seed damage of 1.69%, and 1.33% was recorded in PRG 176 and TDRG 4, respectively. It was observed that per cent seed damage was positively related with seed moisture level. Mean seed damage recorded was 0.75%, 1.50% and 2.29% at 9%, 11% and 13% moisture level, respectively irrespective of varieties. The interaction effect between the two cultivars and different moisture levels revealed that PRG 176 had maximum seed damage (2.33%) at 13% moisture level, whereas minimum seed damage (0.41%) was recorded in TDRG 4 at 9% moisture level.\r\nFrom the perusal of data at four months after storage, the interaction effect between the two cultivars and different moisture levels revealed that PRG 176 showed maximum seed damage (1.00%) at 13% moisture level and no seed damage in TDRG 4, at 9% moisture level. Along the storage period seed damage showed decreasing trend in both the varieties as adult emergence is reduced along the storage period compared to two months after storage.\r\nAfter six months of storage, it was observed that seed damage caused by pulse beetle showed further decreasing trend compared to four and two months after storage. A significant difference was observed between the varieties for mean per cent seed damage, the highest mean seed damage (0.34%) was recorded in PRG 176 and lowest (0.06%) in TDRG 4. The mean per cent seed damage with respect to seed moisture levels showed increasing trend as the per cent seed damage was zero, 0.22% and 0.38% at 9%, 11% and 13% moisture level, respectively irrespective of varieties. The interaction effect between two cultivars and different moisture levels (9%, 11% & 13%) revealed that PRG 176 showed maximum seed damage (0.58%) at 13% moisture level and no seed damage in TDRG 4, at both 9% and 11% moisture level and at 9% moisture level in PRG 176. The reduction in per cent seed damage along storage period was observed due to decline in adult emergence, as influenced by storage container (Hermetic bag). Among the two cultivars PRG 176 showed maximum seed damage at each moisture levels compared to TDRG 4. \r\nAmong the different moisture levels (9%, 11% and 13%) irrespective of varieties along the storage period seeds stored at 9% moisture level remained mostly free from damage, indicate that less seed moisture is usually unfavorable for insect infestation. This results are in accordance with Oxley and Wickenden (1963) and Calderon and Navarro (1980), who reported that that the low moisture content in grains causes a dehydrating effect on the immature stages of insects, since insects need moisture to complete their life cycle.\r\nThe results are in accordance with findings of Aryal et al. (2019) who reported that, highest weevil infestation (19%) was found in maize seed stored at moisture content of 11% and least (12%) in seed with moisture content of 9% for a storage period of two years under hermatic condition, further they concluded that high moisture content resulted in increased insect activity.\r\nEffect of seed moisture on per cent weight loss caused by pulse beetle, Callosobruchus chinensis (L.) in pigeonpea seeds. The results obtained from the effect of seed moisture levels (9%, 11% and 13%) on per cent weight loss caused by C. chinensis (L.) in pigeonpea seeds of two popular cultivars are presented in Table 3.\r\nAfter two months of storage, the results on mean weight loss showed significant difference between the varieties. The highest mean weight loss of (0.397%) was recorded in PRG 176. While, lowest (0.267%) in TDRG 4. The results at different moisture levels revealed that weight loss increased with increase in moisture level. Mean weight loss of 0.195%, 0.324% and 0.475% was recorded at 9%, 11% and 13% moisture level, respectively. The interaction effect between the two cultivars and different moisture levels it was observed that, among the two cultivars PRG 176 showed maximum weight loss (0.590%) at 13% moisture level and minimum weight loss (0.160%) in TDRG 4 at 9% moisture level. \r\nFrom perusal of data at four months after storage, among the two cultivars stored at different moisture levels PRG 176 showed maximum weight loss (0.213%) at 13% moisture level and TDRG 4 showed zero weight loss at 9% moisture level. After six months of storage similar trend was observed. The interaction effect between two cultivars and different moisture levels (9%, 11% & 13%) revealed that PRG 176 showed maximum weight loss (0.168%) at 13% moisture level and zero weight loss was recorded in TDRG 4, at both 9% and 11% moisture level and also at 9% moisture level in PRG 176. \r\nAmong the two cultivars PRG 176 showed maximum weight loss at each moisture levels compared to TDRG 4. Thus PRG 176 was found to be more susceptible to pulse beetle infestation than TDRG 4.\r\nThe results are in accordance with findings of Aryal et al. (2019) who reported that, highest weevil infestation and per cent weight loss was found in maize seed stored at moisture content of 11% (2.26 %) and least in seed with moisture content of 9% (1.43%), under hermatic condition and they concluded that the lower weight loss at 9% seed moisture content is due to lower number of weevil infestation in which biological activity of insect pest reduced at low seed moisture content. \r\n','Gangambika A.S., A. Padmasri, K. Parimala and M. Mohibbe Azam (2022). Effect of Seed Moisture on Incidence of Pulse Beetle, Callosobruchus chinensis (L.) infestation in Popular Pigeonpea Cultivars Grown in Telangana. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 14(3): 510-514.'),(5308,'136','Performance of Lakadong Turmeric (Curcuma longa L.) under Integrated Application of Farm Yard Manure, Vermicompost and Chemical Fertilizers','Ventina Yumnam and Sanjay-Swami*','86 Performance of Lakadong Turmeric (Curcuma longa L.) under Integrated Application of Farm Yard Manure, Vermicompost and Chemical Fertilizers Sanjay-Swami.pdf','',1,'The Lakadong, one of the finest varieties of turmeric (Curcuma longa L.), has its uniqueness with a very high curcumin content of about 6-7.5% and volatile essential oil (dry) of about 3.6-4.8%. Being a heavy feeder, it depletes abundant quantity of nutrients from the soil, however farmers of Meghalaya are cultivating it without any nutrient source, or applying household waste resulting continuous decline in yield with poor quality produce. Therefore, a field experiment was conducted at the School of Natural Resource Management, College of Post Graduate Studies in Agricultural Sciences, Umiam, Meghalaya during 2021-2022 to assess the growth and yield of Lakadong turmeric under integrated nutrient management involving farm yard manure (FYM) and vermicompost (VC). The eight treatment combination viz., T1 (100% N through FYM), T2 (100%N through VC), T3 (75% RDN through urea + 25% N through FYM), T4 (75% RDN through urea + 25% N through VC), T5 (50% RDN through urea + 50% N through FYM), T6 (50% RDN through urea + 50% N through VC), T7 (50% RDN through urea + 25% N through VC + 25% FYM) and T8 (100% RDN (120 kg N ha-1 through urea) were tested in randomized block design with three replications. The significant higher plant height, clump length and fresh rhizome yield were recorded with the application of 50% RDN through urea + 50% N through VC (T6), whereas the lowest values for these parameters were recorded with the application of 100% RDN i.e., 120 kg N ha-1 through urea (T8). The findings reflected the supremacy of integrated nutrient management through 50% RDN through urea + 50% N through VC over chemical fertilization alone as well as other combinations with organic manures. Hence, farmers of Meghalaya may be advised to adopt this package for getting higher yield of Lakadong turmeric.','Lakadong turmeric, FYM, VC, integrated nutrient management, yield','Based on the findings of the above investigation, it may be concluded that the plant height, clump length and fresh rhizome yield were significantly superior in plants supplied with 50% RDN + 50% N through VC (T6) but the highest values of these parameters were recorded with 50% RDN + 25% N through VC + 25% FYM (T7) which was statistically at par with T6. Therefore, application of 50% RDN + 50% N through VC (T6) may be recommended as most appropriate combination for improving fresh rhizome yield of Lakadong turmeric in acid Inceptisol of Meghalaya.','INTRODUCTION\r\nMeghalaya, one of the North-Eastern states, is home to a variety of spices of which turmeric (Curcuma longa L.) is one of the prominent. The Jaintia hills districts of Meghalaya are native to one of the finest varieties of turmeric in the world, the Lakadong. It is locally known as shynrai or shyrmit Lakadong in Khasi. The variety has its uniqueness with a very high curcumin content of about 6-7.5 % (Shreeranjan, 2006; Jha and Deka 2012) and volatile essential oil (dry) of about 3.6-4.8%. If this uniqueness of the variety is properly exploited, it can change the lives of thousands of small and marginal farmers of Meghalaya. Though the crop is grown to an extent of 1928 ha, Jaintia Hills accounts for 58.0% and West Garo Hills for 20.2% of the total area due to favourable soil and climate. Each of the other five districts has about 4.0% of the area. The state produces around 16 thousand MT of turmeric, of which 72.0% is contributed by Khasi - Jaintia Hills and 28.0% by Garo Hills. Production grew at an annual rate of 2.47% and area at 3.14% per annum, indicating declining trend in yield (GoM, 2018). \r\nOne of the possible factors for decline in yield is that majority of the farmers are traditionally growing the Lakadong without adding nutrients, either through organic or inorganic sources. Few farmers are using little quantities of household waste or farm yard manure (FYM) as nutrient sources. Lakadong turmeric, being one of the heavy feeders, extracts abundant quantity of nutrients from the soil (Anuradha et al., 2018). Acidity-induced soil fertility constraints coupled with negligible use of chemical fertilizers are generally held responsible for lower crop productivity in Meghalaya (Sanjay-Swami and Yadav, 2021). Therefore, soil health or fertility is the most crucial factor in deciding the agricultural productivity in the region (Lyngdoh and Sanjay-Swami 2018; Sanjay-Swami et al., 2022). Keeping in view the limited availability of organic nutrient sources, it is not possible to meet the high nutrient requirement of the Lakadong turmeric through organic nutrient sources alone. Similarly, use of inorganic fertilizers alone reduces the crop yields over time by affecting the soil properties and depleting soil organic matter (Sanjay-Swami and Singh, 2020). Integrated use of organic and inorganic nutrient sources can improve crop productivity (Mal et al., 2013). The use of chemical fertilizers in combination with organic manure is essentially required to improve soil health (Bajpai et al., 2006). Association of organic matter and nutrient availability has been confirmed by the high coefficients of correlation between the soil attributes (Sakal et al., 1996). \r\nIt is urgent to develop integrated nutrient management package for Lakadong turmeric involving use of renewable resources of plant nutrients locally available to the farmers. Although FYM is commonly used organic manure but is not adequately available. The huge amounts of farm wastes and weed biomass can be recycled effectively by preparing vermicompost (Sanjay-Swami, 2012). Vermicompost application improves bulk density, water holding capacity, and humic substances of the soil (Sanjay-Swami and Bazaya, 2010). Its application also improves soil biology by increasing population of beneficial microbes and enzyme activities (Sharma and Garg, 2017). Therefore, the present investigation was carried out to study the performance of Lakadong turmeric under integrated application of farmyard manure, vermicompost and chemical fertilizers and develop a suitable integrated nutrient management package to exploit the potential of this variety.\r\nMATERIALS AND METHODS\r\nStudy location: The field experiment was conducted at the research farm of the School of Natural Resource Management, College of Post Graduate Studies in Agricultural Sciences, Umaim, Meghalaya during kharif 2021-2022. Geographically, the experimental site was located at 91°18 to 92°18 E longitude and 25°40 to 26°20 N latitude with an altitude of 950 m above the mean sea level with the agro-climatic zone of mixed subtropical hills (Fig. 1). The annual climate of Umiam is divided into three different seasons: pre-monsoon (March to May), monsoon (June to September) and post-monsoon (October to February) months. The temperature of this region varies between 10-30°C and precipitation of 2410 mm.\r\nExperiment details: The trial was conducted in randomized block design (RBD) with eight treatments and three replications. The treatments consist of T1 (100% N through FYM), T2 (100% N through VC), T3 (75% RDN through urea + 25% N through FYM), T4 (75% RDN through urea + 25% N through VC), T5 (50% RDN through urea + 50% N through FYM), T6 (50% RDN through urea + 50% N through VC), T7 (50% RDN through urea + 25% N through VC + 25% FYM) and T8 (100% RDN (120 kg N ha-1 through urea). The plant parameters i.e., plant height, clump length, and fresh rhizome yield were recorded from the randomly selected 6 plants in each plot of the different treatments. The data relating to the growth and yield of the crop were statistically analysed following the analysis of variance method. Statistical analysis and interpretation were done by calculating the value of S.Em (±) and CD at 5% level of significance (Gomez and Gomez 1984).\r\nThe experimental soil was found to be acidic in reaction having pH 5.2 and medium in available phosphorus (18.70 kg/ha). The detailed analysis of experimental soil is presented in Table 1.\r\nThe farm yard manure and vermicompost used in this study were procured from Rural Resource and Training Centre, Umran. The nutrient content of farm yard manure and vermicompost along with the method of analysis are given in Table 2.\r\nRESULTS AND DISCUSSION\r\nPlant height. The plant height is an observable character and was recorded at 50, 100 and 150 days after planting (DAP). The data pertaining to plant height of Lakadong turmeric depicted an increasing trend up to 150 DAP irrespective of the treatments (Table 3). Rao et al. (2005) also observed increased plant height of turmeric at a faster rate upto 150 days and thereafter it slowed down. The slow growth after 150 days might be attributed to rhizomes development due to the source and sink relationship i.e. transportation of more photosynthates from source (leaves) to sink (rhizomes). The maximum plant height (143.84 cm) was recorded at 150 DAP with the application of 50% RDN through urea + 25% N through VC + 25% FYM (T7), whereas the lowest plant height (82.56 cm) was recorded with 100% RDN through urea (T8) at 150 DAP. However, maximum significant increase in plant height was observed with the combined use of 50% RDN through urea + 50% N through VC (T6). \r\nA critical examination of the data further revealed significant increased plant height with 100% N through FYM (T1), 100% N through VC (T2) and 50% RDN through urea + 25% N through VC + 25% FYM (T7) over 100% RDN through urea (T8) by 6.40, 22.43 and 44.92% at 150 DAP (Table 3, Fig. 2). In contrast to this, non-significant increase in plant height was recorded with 50% RDN through urea + 25% N through VC + 25% FYM (T7) over 50% RDN through urea + 50% N through VC (T6) at all the growth intervals i.e. 50 DAP (1%), 100 DAP (1.62%) and 150 DAP (2.3%).\r\nFurther, scrutiny of plant height data at different growth stages showed increasing trend with the application of 100% N through VC (T2) over 100% N through FYM (T1) by 16.94, 17.13 and 16.00% at 50, 100 and 150 DAP, respectively. Similarly, with the application of 75% RDN through urea + 25% N through FYM (T3), the increase in plant height was recorded to be 20.00, 20.00 and 17.20% over 100% N through FYM (T1) at 50, 100 and 150 DAP, respectively. The combined use of 75% RDN through urea + 25% N through VC (T4) also followed the same pattern and the increase in plant height was recorded to be 17.14%, 17.70%, and 14.80% over 100% N through VC (T2) at 50, 100 and 150 DAP, respectively. The results indicated that 50% RDN through urea + 50% N through VC (T6) gave maximum significant higher plant height in comparison to all other treatments, including 50% RDN through urea + 25% N through VC + 25% FYM (T7) followed by 75% RDN through urea + 25% N through VC (T4), 50% RDN through urea + 50% N through FYM (T5), 75% RDN through urea + 25% N through FYM (T3), 100% N through VC (T2), and 100% N through FYM (T1). The increased plant height with the application of organic manures viz., FYM and VC may be due to narrow C: N ratio which might have produced more humic acid and humic substances form chelates with phosphorus (Yadav and Sanjay-Swami, 2019). The chelated phosphorous has been reported to be more soluble in water, which could make it easily available to crops. This might have led to increased plant height in turmeric (Kumar et al., 2016).\r\nClump length. The data on clump length of Lakadong turmeric presented in Fig. 3 revealed that the combined use of organic and inorganic fertilizers gave a significant result over the sole use of organic or chemical fertilizers. The highest clump length was recorded under application of 50% RDN + 25% N through VC + 25% FYM (T7) over the other treatments, however statistically superior clump length was observed with 50% RDN + 50% N through VC (T6) which was statistically at par with 50% RDN + 25% N through VC + 25% FYM (T7). Likewise, 18.11% increase in clump length was recorded with 100% N through VC (T2) over the 100% N through FYM (T1).\r\nThe treatment 50% RDN + 50% N through FYM (T5) produced 28.31 and 12.10% higher clump length over 100% N through FYM (T1) and 75% RDN + 25% N through FYM (T3), respectively. Further it was observed that 100% N through FYM (T1), 100% N through VC (T2), 75% RDN + 25% N through FYM (T3),75% RDN + 25% N through VC (T4), 50% RDN + 50% N through FYM (T5), 50% RDN + 50% N through VC (T6), 50% RDN + 25% N through VC + 25% FYM (T7) showed increase by 5.83, 22.89, 23.22, 35.21, 48.14, 44.00 and 46.26%, respectively over the sole use of chemical fertilizer 100% RDN (T8). Pronounced clump length with the application of organic manures might be due to sustained availability of nitrogen throughout the growing phase and also due to enhanced photosynthates and effective translocation of them to the sink i.e. rhizome. Singh (2015) also observed beneficial effects of organics in various crops. \r\nFresh rhizome yield. Harvested rhizomes were cleaned from shoot and root residues, then weighed for yield of fresh rhizome and data are presented in Fig. 4. From the present study, a significant higher fresh rhizome yield was found in all treatments over 100% RDN (T8). Among the treatments, the significant higher fresh rhizome yield was recorded under the application of 50% RDN + 50% N through VC (T6) in comparison to other treatments even though the application of 50% RDN + 25% N through VC + 25% FYM (T7) had been recorded as the highest yield because there is a non-significant increase in yield between them followed by 75% RDN + 25% N through VC (T4), 50% RDN + 50% N through FYM (T5), 75% RDN + 25% N through FYM (T3), 100% N through VC (T2), and 100% N through FYM (T1). The sole use of 100% FYM gave 10.25% more fresh rhizome yield (25.4 kg/ha) than sole use of 100% RDN through urea (T8). Similarly, 100% N through VC also significantly increased fresh rhizome yield by 25.88% yield over 100% RDN through urea (T8). The application of 100% N through VC (T2) showed significant increase of 17.35% over the 100% N through FYM (T1).\r\nThe treatment 75% RDN + 25% N through FYM (T3) produced significant higher fresh rhizome yield over 100% N through FYM (T1). Similarly, 75% RDN + 25% N through VC (T4) showed better results with about 17.14% more yield than sole 100% N through VC (T2). Again, the combined treatment of 50% RDN + 50% N through FYM (T5) showed significant higher rhizome yield of about 27.5% over the application of 100% N through FYM (T1). Likewise, 50% RDN + 50% N through VC (T6) also produced increased yield by 27.53% over 100% N through VC (T2). These result showed that the combined use of organic and inorganic fertilizers gave more significant results than the sole use of organic or chemical fertilizers. Vermicompost and FYM in integrated nutrient management would have improved the physical, chemical and biological properties of soil which help in better nutrient absorption and utilization by plants resulting in higher rhizome yield as reported by Kanaujia et al. (2016). The higher yield might be due to an increase in plant height and clump length and ultimately due to an increased photosynthetic rate. This is also in conformation with the results of Dinesh et al. (2010). Increased yield of cabbage (Brassica oleracea L. var capitata) under combined use of organic manures in acid Inceptisol was also reported by Konyak and Sanjay-Swami (2018) in North East Himalaya whereas Gupta et al. (2019) reported increased yield of okra (Abelmoschus esculentus L.) under integrated application of vermicompost and farmyard manure in North West Himalaya.\r\n','Ventina Yumnam and Sanjay-Swami (2022). Performance of Lakadong Turmeric (Curcuma longa L.) under integrated Application of Farm Yard Manure, Vermicompost and Chemical Fertilizers. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 14(3): 515-520.'),(5309,'136','Identification of Suitable Cropping System for Terai Zone of West Bengal under Medium Land Situation','P.S. Patra, A. Sarkar, A.S. Ahmad, B. Kanjilal, A. Hoque and H. Meena','87 Identification of Suitable Cropping System for Terai Zone of West Bengal under Medium Land Situation P.S. Patra.pdf','',1,'Continuous adoption of similar kind of cropping system helped in more disease and insect outbreak as a result system productivity and profitability declined day by day. Keeping the above fate in mind a field experiment was conducted during 2015-16, 2016-17 and 2017-18 at the instructional farm of Uttar Banga Krishi Viswavidyalaya, Pundibari, Cooch Behar to find out the suitable cropping system for the medium land situation. Treatment comprises of nine cropping systems namely C1= Jute -Rice-Potato, C2= Jute -Rice-Bengal Gram, C3= Jute -Rice-Mustard, C4= Jute -Rice-Wheat, C5= Jute -Rice-Lentil, C6= Groundnut -Rice-Potato, C7= Maize -Rice-Cabbage, C8= Okra- Rice-Chili and C9= Bitter gourd -Rice-Garden pea. \r\nThree years mean data of the experiment showed that Jute -Rice-Potato cropping system recorded 3.97 and 44.60 % higher system productivity over Groundnut -Rice-Potato and Maize -Rice-Cabbage system, while Okra- Rice-Chili and Bitter gourd -Rice-Garden pea system achieved 53.77 and 15.22 % higher rice equivalent yield over Jute -Rice-Potato system. Highest Land Utilization Index of 85.91% was found with Jute -Rice-Bengal Gram and lowest being observed in Groundnut -Rice-Potato system (74.69%). Economic analysis of data clearly indicated that Okra -Rice-Chili system fetched 9.49 % higher net return ha-1 over Jute -Rice-Potato system, while Groundnut -Rice-Potato was found most cost-effective system as it gave 23.53%, 31.25%, 52.17 % and 156.10 % higher benefit over Jute -Rice-Potato, Okra- Rice-Chili, Bitter gourd -Rice-Garden pea and Maize -Rice-Cabbage systems respectively.\r\n','Cropping System, Land Utilization Index, Rice Equivalent Yield, System Productivity and Economics','It was concluded from the three year experimentation that, inclusion of vegetable crops like okra, chilli, bitter gourd and garden pea in the rice based cropping system augmented system productivity in terms of rice equivalent yield and selection of short duration varieties of the component crops could helped in maintaining proper sowing window and sustainability of the systems. Economic analysis said that Groundnut -Rice-Potato is the most remunerative system of this region for medium land situation, provided that groundnut should be sown within 15th of February as pre kharif crop and short duration rice verities (90-100 days) should be selected. ','INTRODUCTION\r\nCropping systems of a region are decided by a number of soils and climatic factors which regulate overall agro-ecological setting for nourishment and suitability of a crop or crops for cultivation (Liebhardt et al., 1989; Mueller et al., 2002). Cropping system is pondered imperative in mitigating food security, poverty, soil health and for creation of employment (Ahmed et al., 2019; Rahman et al., 2018).\r\nNevertheless, at farmers’ level, potential productivity and monetary benefits act as guiding principles while opting for a particular crop or cropping system. These decisions with respect to choice of crops and cropping systems are further narrowed down under influence of several other forces related to infrastructure facilities which includes irrigation, transport, storage, trade and marketing, post-harvest handling and processing etc., socio-economic factors including financial resource base, land ownership, size and type of land holding, household needs of food, fodder, fuel, fibre and finance, labour availability etc. and technological factors like improved varieties, cultural requirements, mechanization, plant protection, access to information, etc. (Hart, 1984; Harris et al., 1994; Drinkwater et al., 1998; Peterson et al., 1999). \r\nThis region generally has a subtropical humid climate with a prolonged rainy season. The rainy season starts from 1st week of May and continues up to last week of September having intermittent, drizzling and occasional heavy rainfall. The average rainfall of this zone varies between 2100 to 3300 mm. The maximum rainfall, i.e., about 80% of the total, is received from south-west monsoon during the rainy months of June to September. The temperature range of this area varies from minimum of 7-8°C to maximum of 24-33.2°C. The average relative humidity of the area at 8.30 am is 58% and 87%, respectively in March and July. The relative humidity at afternoon at 17.30 hr is 48% and 84%, respectively in March and November. As a result, the area as a whole is humid and warm except having a short winter spell during December to February. This varied climatic situation makes the agro-ecological condition more complex and dynamic.\r\nThough the sandy to sandy loam soil of terai region is congenial for cultivation of groundnut, potato, maize, vegetable crops like cabbage, tomato, cauliflower, chilli etc., some soil constraints are there which prevent the farmers from taking some positive outlook about cultivation of this crop. Soil of North Bengal is mostly acidic which aggravates the problem of fixation of phosphorus and lowered availability of micro-nutrients like zinc, boron, molybdenum etc., which leads to improper nodulation and poor yield of number of pulse and oilseed crops under the fabaceae family. \r\nJute-Rice-Potato is the dominating cropping system followed by the majority of farmers. Due to fluctuating market price of Jute and potato farmers often realizes economic loss. Yield of potato is recurrently varied due to unsuitable climatic condition particularly during tuber formation stage and retting of jute become difficult day by day owed to non-availability of water. Keeping the above realities in mind present experiment has been conceptualized to identify suitable cropping systems based on climate, soil and water availability for realizing the potential production levels through efficient use of available resources. \r\nMATERIALS AND METHODS\r\nThe experiment were conducted during 2015-16, 2016-17 and 2017-18 in medium land situation at the instructional farm of Uttar Banga Krishi Viswavidyalaya, Pundibari, Cooch Behar to find out the suitable cropping system for this region. Nine cropping system was taken based on the farmers acceptance of the region by keeping rice as a common crop during kharif season. \r\nSoil of the experimental field was sandy loam in texture, slightly acidic having 169.34 kg ha-1 available nitrogen, 16.81 kg ha-1 available phosphorus and 69.44 kg ha-1 available potassium. 10 m × 5 m plot size was maintained. During pre-kharif season of 2015 trail was started with Jute, Maize, Okra, Groundnut & Bitter gourd. Jute was taken as pre-kharif crop in five of the cropping system. All the crops were sown during first week of March except groundnut. Groundnut was sown in the second week of February. After harvesting of pre-kharif crops transplanted rice was taken as kharif crop. Rice variety Parijat was used during 2015 and Nayanmoni were used in the year 2016 & 2017 respectively in the experiment. Kharif rice were transplanted in the second week of July and harvested at the middle of November. After harvesting of kharif rice, rabi crops namely Potato, Bengal gram, Mustard, Wheat, Lentil, Cabbage, Chili& Garden Pea were sown. Standard agro-techniques were followed for all crops. Data related to economic yield were recorded after harvesting of each crop from 50 m-2 experimental fields and then converted into tones ha-1. System yield was worked out by adding the yield of component crops. Economic analysis was done based on prevailing market price of the crops and thereafter by totaling the gross returns of the component crop system return was done. \r\nTo relate the systems, crop yields were transformed into Jute equivalent yield (JEY) with the economic yield of each crop and their price of output during pre-kharif season and Potato equivalent yield (PEY) during rabi season as majority of farmer took potato as a rabi crop. Land utilization index (LUI), was assessed as a proportion of number of days during which the crops in sequence inhabit the land during a year to the total number of days in a year, i.e. 365 (Tomar and Tiwari 1990).\r\nRESULTS AND DISCUSSION\r\nCrop performance during pre-kharif season: Jute was taken as pre-kharif crop in five of the experimental cropping system. Mean yield data of the Maize, Okra, Groundnut and Bitter gourd was converted to Jute Equivalent Yield (JEY) and presented in Table 1. Data clearly showed that okra recorded highest JEY of 14.22 t ha-1 followed by bitter gourd (6.27 t ha-1) was solely due to higher productivity as well as better market price compared to other crops. Mean yield of maize (6.11 t ha-1) though higher than jute (3.04 t ha-1) but due to proportionately lower market price of maize compared to jute ultimately recorded lower JEY of 2.67 t ha-1. Lowest JEY of 1.95 t ha-1 was recorded by groundnut just due to lower economic yield. \r\nCrop performance during kharif season: Rice was taken as a kharif crop in all the experimental cropping system and grain yield of rice was presented in the Fig 1. From the figure it is clear that yield of rice was differed with the year of experimentation due to varietal change and weather during the growing season. \r\nLowest yield (3.38 t ha-1) was recorded during 2015 when rice variety Parijat was grown while highest yield of 4.04 t ha-1 was achieved during 2017 with rice variety Nayanmoni. Among the variety used in the systems Nayanmoni performed better compared Parijat in both the year 2016 and 2017.\r\nCrop performance during Rabi season: During rabi season eight crops were taken namely Potato, Bengal gram, Mustard, Wheat, Lentil, Cabbage, Chilli and Garden pea. Year wise yield and variety used in the experiment was mentioned in the Table 2. As majority of the area during rabi season of the region was occupied by potato and the crop is having highest productivity, therefore all the mean yield data of the other crops were converted to Potato Equivalent Yield (PEY). Highest PEY of 32 t ha-1 was obtained from cabbage followed by Garden pea (29.20 t ha-1), chilli (15.09 t ha-1), wheat (9.86 t ha-1), mustard (7.03 t ha-1) and Bengal gram (6.94 t ha-1). Lowest PEY of 5.87 t ha-1 was registered by lentil simply due to expressively lowest productivity which could not compensate with higher selling price of the crop.\r\nSystem Productivity, REY and Land Utilization Index: System productivity, Rice Equivalent Yield (REY) and Land Utilization Index (LEI) was calculated and presented in table. Mean data of three years clearly showed that Jute-Rice-Potato recorded highest system productivity of 41.92 t ha-1 followed by Groundnut -Rice-Potato (40.32 t ha-1), C7= Maize -Rice-Cabbage (28.99 t ha-1) and C8= Okra- Rice-Chili (24.70 t ha-1) was due to higher productivity of potato. Lowest system productivity of 7.86 t ha-1 was noticed in Jute -Rice-Lentil system and that was due to lowest productivity of lentil. \r\nHighest system REY of 41.01 t ha-1 was recorded in Okra- Rice-Chili system owing to reasonably higher productivity and better market price of okra and chilli followed by Bitter gourd -Rice-Garden pea (30.73 t ha-1), Jute -Rice-Potato (26.67 t ha-1) and Groundnut -Rice-Potato (24.35 t ha-1). Lowest system REY of 12.97 t ha-1 was noticed in Jute -Rice-Lentil system, due to lowest system productivity. Saha et al., (2019) stated 211 to 360% higher REY by two to four based cropping system.\r\nLand Utilization Index clearly determined number of days of a given year; land is occupied by the crops. Highest LUI of 85.91% was found under Jute -Rice-Bengal Gram which was closely followed by Maize -Rice-Cabbage (85.64 %) basically due to higher duration of the component crops in the rice based system. Lowest LUI of 74.69 % was registered by Groundnut -Rice-Potato, due to lees duration of the component crops. The results are in close lines with the outcomes of Islam et al., (2018).\r\nEconomics of cropping system: Success or failure of any system or technology or methods finally depends on their economic feasibility. Economics of the cropping system was calculated based on the prevailing market price and presented in Table 3 and 4. It is apparent from the data that Okra-Rice-Chili cropping system provided the highest mean gross return and net return to the tune of ` 4,10,103 ha-1 and `2,52,236.20 respectively simply due to higher system productivity in terms of rice equivalent yield (REY) and better selling price of okra and chilli. Lowest gross return of ` 1,99,083 ha-1 was realized under Jute -Rice-Lentil cropping system, while lowest net return to the tune of ₹ 102018.20 was found under Maize -Rice-Cabbage even though it has higher rice equivalent yield over Jute -Rice-Bengal Gram, Jute -Rice-Mustard, Jute -Rice-Wheat, Jute -Rice-Lentil and Groundnut -Rice-Potato due to underprivileged market price of Maize and Cabbage. \r\nMean highest B:C was registered by Groundnut -Rice-Potato system, simply due to lesser cost of cultivation and higher net return followed by Jute -Rice-Potato (1.70), while lowest B: C ratio of 0.82 was noticed in Maize -Rice-Cabbage system due to lowest net return. Bastia et al. (2008) reported an improved economic return with cereal-cereal-pulse system. \r\n','P.S. Patra, A. Sarkar, A.S. Ahmad, B. Kanjilal, A. Hoque and H. Meena (2022). Identification of Suitable Cropping System for Terai Zone of West Bengal under Medium Land Situation. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 14(3): 521-525.'),(5310,'136','Estimation of Income Risk of Small and Marginal Farmers in Tank Fed Area through Analytical Hierarchy Process (AHP)','K. Poovarasan, K. Mahandrakumar, J. Pushpa, S. Selvam and K. Prabakaran\r\n','88 Estimation of Income Risk of Small and Marginal Farmers in Tank Fed Area through Analytical Hierarchy Process (AHP) K.POOVARASAN.pdf','',1,'Marginal and small farmers in tank fed irrigation receive less compensation for loss encountered in their occupations. Hence to estimate the required compensation for the extent of income loss through various risks they have encountered Analytical Hierarchy Process (AHP) was employed. The result revealed that only 30.74 per cent and 58.66 per cent of income loss was compensated through insurance scheme in farming and Animal husbandry respectively. Additional compensation measure may be paid to small and marginal farmers due to peculiar risks encountered by them.','Small and marginal farmer, Estimation of loss, AHP, Crop insurances','The amount of compensation received for the income loss by the small and marginal farmers are very meagre. The methodology followed for the calculation of compensation by the insurance companies is not favouring the farmers. If it continues the small and large farmers will decline to insure the crop (Matlou, 2021). The alternative methodology proposed in this paper may help to decide the amount of compensation to be paid when the farmers were faced by a set of risk. ','INTRODUCTION\r\nFarmers in tank fed irrigation used to encounter different income related risks in their occupations. To compensate the income loss, government encourage these farmers to enroll in insurance scheme like Pradhan Mantri Fasal Bima Yojana (PMFBY). Crop insurance is one of the options for farmers to manage the monitory loss due to yield loss. It contributed in stabilisation of farm production and income due to yield loss faced by the farming community. An insurance programme is effective when it induces farmers to take on more risks that they would not have taken otherwise. Farmers will take on more financial risks as insurance reduces risk in farming, a practise known as \'risk balancing\' (Liang, 2014). But, recent studies indicated that the compensation measures of crop insurance coverage are very low and less than 5.00 per cent in India. For paddy and groundnut crops, the proportion of farmers reporting crop loss is significant (more than 25%), but insurance coverage is inadequate (Aditya et al., 2018). Farmers earlier who were enthusiastically participating in the scheme through paying premium now are reluctant to pay premium for two reasons: first, there was delay in releasing the compensation from the insurance companies. Second the amount of compensation measure paid was inadequate. Hence, an attempt has been made to measure the total income loss of farmers when they encountered different risks. To quantify the risks Analytical Hierarchy (AHP) method was employed.\r\nRESEARCH METHODOLOGY \r\nThe analytic hierarchy process (AHP) also known as multi-criteria decision-analysis method introduced by Satty (1980) was employed for construction of estimation of income risk. It is widely applied in outstanding works of various fields relating to best option selection, conflict solution, resource allocation and optimization of the decision-making process. In this study, the AHP is employed to establish actual contribution of the components and sub components in estimation of income risk through the steps given below and followed by (Rajeshwaran et al., 2021 and Ejovi et al.. 2021).\r\nThe basic procedure follows for the AHP:\r\n1. Hierarchy construction \r\n2. Developing a pairwise comparison matrix for each criterion \r\n3. Normalizing the resulting matrix \r\n4. Averaging the values in each row to get the corresponding rating\r\n5. Calculation and checking the consistency ratio\r\n1. Hierarchy construction Hierarchy is established by breaking down the overall goal that is measures of estimation of income risk through basic elements. These fundamental elements of hierarchy construction are divided into two categories based on occupation: farming + livestock and farming + wages. Further, the component, farming risk, is categorised into 5 different sub-components; they are production risk, marketing risk, financial risk, human resource risk, and institutional risk; and another component, livestock risk, is categorised into three sub-components; they are production risk, marketing & financial risk, and institutional risk (Roger et al., 2011). The review of literature and authors’ critical judgments has led to the construction of the hierarchical model consisting of different components. Making such construction helps to identify the components with their exclusive domain. Moreover, it helps to control the duplication of subcomponents.\r\n2. Developing a pairwise comparison matrix for each criterion. The contribution of one component over another component has to be measure through psychological scale that build up through psychological continuum, by ordering the components through psychophysical method. In this way the weight score of pairwise comparison was assigned with a scale of 1-9 as depicted below.\r\nTwo items are equally important \r\none item is extremely favoured to another\r\n \r\nHere, the weightage score assigned by the different experts are pooled together and average score of pairwise was worked out. The pairwise score were depicted in the matrix format \r\nMatrix of pair wise element = [█(├ █(C_11 C_12 C_13@C_21 C_22 C_23@C_31 C_32 C_33@C_41 C_42 C_43@C_51 C_52 C_53 )] )┤\r\nSum the values in each column of the pair wise matrix=∑_(i=1)^n▒C_ij \r\n3. Normalizing the resulting matrix. To get the overall importance of one element over another element was worked out for average score of pairwise items in normalized matrix. To generate a normalised pairwise matrix that each element in the matrix was divided by its column total. \r\nx_ij=C_ij/(∑_(i=1)^n▒C_ij )\r\n4. Averaging the values in each row to get the corresponding rating. The sum of the normalized column of matrix was divided by the number of criteria used to generate weighted matrix. Moreover, this average score gives the percentage contribution of particular element towards the goal.\r\nw_ij=(∑_(j=1)^n▒x_ij )/n [█(W_11@W_12@W_13 )]\r\n5. Calculation and checking the consistency ratio. Judges may assign the pairwise matrix scale without due consideration of relative importance of each elements. If it is so, the score one got in the early steps may not reflect the reality. To get the validity and reliability of the score, consistency check has to be carried out. The consistency ratio was calculated to make sure that the original preference ratings were consistent.\r\nThere are 3 steps to arrive at the consistency ratio:\r\n 1. Calculation of consistency measure. \r\n 2. Calculation of consistency index (CI).\r\n 3. Calculation of consistency ratio (CR).\r\nCalculation of the consistency measure. To calculate the consistency measure, the matrix multiplication function =MMULT() is used for actual rows with average column.\r\n1. Consistency measure is calculated by multiplying the pairwise matrix by the weights vector\r\n [█(C_11 C_12 C_13@C_21 C_22 C_23@C_31 C_32 C_33@C_41 C_42 C_43@C_51 C_52 C_53 )]*[█(w_11@w_21@w_31 )]= [█(C_(M_11 )@C_(M_21 )@C_(M_31 ) )]\r\n2. Consistency vector is calculated by dividing the consistency measure with average criterion weight.\r\n C_(v_11 )=1/w_11 [C_11 w_11+C_12 w_(21 ) C_13 w_31 ]\r\n C_(v_21 )=1/w_21 [C_21 w_11+C_22 w_(21 ) C_23 w_31 ]\r\n 〖 C〗_(v_31 )=1/w_31 [C_31 w_11+C_32 w_21 C_33 w_31 ]\r\n\r\n3. λ was calculated by averaging the value of the consistency vector\r\n λ= (∑_(i=1)^n▒〖cν_ij 〗)/n\r\nCalculation of the consistency index (CI). It was calculated by using the formula given below.\r\n Cl= (λMax-N)/(N-1)\r\nλ Max = averaging the value of the consistency vector\r\n N = Number of criteria\r\nCalculation of the consistency ratio (CI/RI where RI is a random index). It was done by following the formula given below.\r\nCR= Cl/RI\r\nCI = Consistency index value \r\nRI= Table value\r\nRandom Index (RI). The RI was obtained from the random inconsistency indices given by Satty (1980) which is furnished below.\r\nStudy area. Small and marginal farmers in tank fed irrigated areas comprise the universe of this study. The multistage random sampling method was used to select the ultimate sampling units.\r\nThe study was conducted in Sivagangai district of Tamil Nadu. Which is having the highest net area of 63,749 hacters covered under tank irrigation compare to other districts of Tamil Nadu. Further, most of the small and marginal farmers were holding either livestock or wages along with farming as occupation. So, it was decided to choose 40 respondents from farming + livestock and 40 respondents from farming + wages occupations are selected. Thus, total 80 respondents from the district are selected for this study.\r\nRESULT AND DISCUSSION\r\nTo estimate the income risk faced by small and marginal farmers, economic losses incurred in yield loss was worked out. In this regard, data pertaining to potential income earned by the small and marginal farmers are derived from reliable records such as Directorate of Economics and Statistics, Estimation of Cost of Cultivation / production & Related data from 2013 to 2018 and TNAU Agri portal. The data were further verified in triangulation with extension functionaries such as state officials and progressive farmers during the course of survey. The actual income earned by the small and marginal farmers in an annum was worked out from the data collected from respondents. The difference between the potential and actual income considered as the loss incurred by the farmers due to occurrence of risk events. This is presented in the Table 1.\r\nThe data in the Table 1 depicts the estimated loss of income incurred by the farmers in tank fed irrigation system. It could be understood that the major income loss happened in livestock (Rs.26845) followed by farming (Rs.13483) and wage employment (Rs.9700). \r\nAfter arriving the total loss, it was decided to estimate the actual contribution of individual risk events through Analytical Hierarchy Process (AHP). Though in early days AHP (Khwanruthai, 2012) was used for decision making by prioritizing the best course of action from the available alternative through paired comparison method, in recent years this tool is employed for measuring estimations (Rajeshwaran et al., 2021). This tool is particularly useful when there is mixing up of objective value as well as judgement values to prioritize the events. Here adhering the methodology, analytical structure was worked out separately for two different categories of small and marginal farmers based on composition of occupations they were involved. In the first step, the loss incurred in two different occupations in proposition was calculated. In the second step of hierarchy construction, different weightage scores were assigned to different category of risks such as production, marketing, financial, human resources and institutional risks. Further, in third step the major risks identified related to the different categories of risks were put forth based on judgement of judges. Finally, based on the weightage score assigned by the judges the actual contribution of loss incurred was estimated in terms of money value which is presented in the Table 2 and Fig. 1-2.\r\nFrom the Table 2, it could be ascertained that farmers who are holding livestock as occupation are losing Rs.26845 from their annual income. This estimated income loss are happening due to poor-remuneration through selling of livestock during pandemic period followed by diseases and unprecedent death of livestock through to the tune of Rs.9210.94, Rs.4422.74, and Rs.3197.35 respectively. \r\nRegarding farming, farmers were losing their income mostly related to encounter of production risks followed by marketing risks. The production risks like escalation of inputs cost, high hiring cost of farm machineries, incidence of pest and diseases have dominating with the estimated losses of Rs.2117.25, Rs.1563.33 and Rs.1351.67 respectively. \r\nThrough the escalation of cost of labours, farmers loss an estimated amount of Rs.1402.97 followed by selling the produce in lower price (Rs.1188.03). \r\nFrom Fig. 1&2 indicate that small and marginal farmers were losing income of around Rs.10000 per annum in wage employment which receiving of less wage followed by delay in payment and unable to get steady employment have contributed to the estimated loss of Rs.4475.33, Rs.2672.56 and Rs.1433.28 respectively. \r\nFurther, the compensation paid and the compensation yet to be paid against the loss also was worked out from the primary data collected from the farmers and the consolidated account is presented in Table 3.\r\nFrom the Table 3, it can be understood that an average amount of Rs. 4145.13 was paid through crop insurance for the year 2020 against original loss of income of Rs. 13483 from farming sector. Hence, it is recommended and additional amount Rs.9338 yet be paid as compensation by considering the risks peculiar to small and marginal farmers. Similarly, in rising of milch animals own amount of Rs.15748 was paid as compensation for risks encountered in the occupation against the actual loss of Rs. 26845. Hence an amount of Rs.11097 may be paid to small and marginal farmers for the peculiar risks faced by them. If the farmers get that money from compensation it leads to increase the income level of small and marginal farmers in tank irrigated system (Tlholoe, 2016).\r\n','K. Poovarasan, K. Mahandrakumar, J. Pushpa, S. Selvam and K. Prabakaran (2022). Estimation of Income Risk of Small and Marginal Farmers in Tank Fed Area through Analytical Hierarchy Process (AHP). Biological Forum – An International Journal, 14(3): 526-531.'),(5311,'136','Evaluation of Quality Attributes in Fresh Fig (Ficus carica L.) Fruits','D. Swetha, C. Indu Rani, G. Gurumeenakshi, M.S. Aneesa Rani, G. Amuthaselvi and R. Neelavathi','89 Evaluation of Quality Attributes in Fresh Fig (Ficus carica L.) Fruits C. Indu Rani.pdf','',1,'In the present study, the quality characteristics of fresh fig cultivars namely, Afghan, Brown Turkey and Deanna were evaluated for quality attributes. Physiological and physicochemical parameters were analysed for the fresh fruits and the findings were compared among the three varieties. The highest moisture content (82%), TSS (13. 5°Brix), protein (2.8 g/100g), titratable acidity (0.69%), vitamin C (8 mg/100g), antioxidant capacity (66%), total phenols (558 GAE mg/100g) and anthocyanin pigment (0.56 mg/100g) were observed in the cultivar Brown Turkey. Significant differences among fig cultivars were found in most of the parameters, in which Afghan cultivars recorded medium quality and Deanna recorded low quality attributes compared to Brown Turkey cultivar. The evaluation of high quality attributes in the fig fruit varieties indicated that it has to exploited by producing by-products or value-added products without draining any properties due to the effect of less shelf life of fig fruits.','Ficus carica, Cultivars, quality attributes, physiological, physicochemical parameters','From the present investigation, it was concluded that there is a prominent difference among the fig cultivars Afghan, Brown Turkey and Deanna on the basis of physiological and physicochemical properties. Fig fruit is an excellent source of a quality attributes i.e., TSS (12.86%), colour (L* 43.3, a* 24.40 and b* 11.6), vitamin C (10.97mg/100g), protein (2.25 g/100g), antioxidant activity (60.33%), total phenols (558.00mg/100g) and anthocyanin (0.56 mg/100g). Figs are important dietary source of natural antioxidants and phenolic compound can be considered as foods with remarkable benefits for human health. The knowledge gained from this study will be useful for further research and application of the resource for the preparation of value added products such as dried fig, jam, squash, gummies, chocolates, etc., without any alteration in quality attributes.','INTRODUCTION\r\nFig (Ficus carica L.) belongs to Moraceae family, originated from Western Asia, and cultivated all over the world. Fig is a forbidden fruit and commonly known as Anjeer. The Genus Ficus includes more than 1000 species out of which about 65 species are found in India. The total area cultivated in India is around 5600 ha and production accounts for 13,802 thousand tonnes, i.e., cultivation of fig is about 12.32 tonnes per hectare. Fig is cultivated in Gujarat, Uttar Pradesh, Maharashtra, Karnataka and Tamil Nadu (Lokappa et al., 2018). \r\nFig trees are normally deciduous and fruit is gynodioecious in nature. The type of fig is a multiple fruit, phytologically known as ‘Syconium’. It consisting of fleshy receptacle with a narrow fenestration at the tip. Fig fruits are extremely perishable, contains sweet crunchy seeds (Stover et al., 2007). Fruits are classified into four types namely Edible fig, Smyrna, San Pedro and Capri fig in which number of cultivars were botanically described in different shapes and colours. The edible fig is a parthenocarpic fruit which is consumed by the people in the world as common fig e.g., Poona fig, Brown Turkey, etc. (Stover et al., 2007).\r\nBrown Turkey fruits are medium to large pyriform in shape, without neck, copper coloured with few seeds. The cultivar is well adapted to warm climate (Hiwale et al., 2015). Deanna cultivar is best suitable for preparing juice. It has bigger-size fruits compared to other cultivars. TSS is 22.8–25.0 %, acidity 0.11–0.16 %, skin 12.0%, pulp 82.0%, fruit weight 60–75 g, and calories 75 and golden yellow in colour (Hiwale et al., 2015).\r\nFig is highly rich in phytonutrients, antioxidants, vitamins and minerals as a natural health benefit source (Ersoy et al., 2015). It also has many medicinal properties such as treatment for skin infections, laxative property, reducing risk for chronic diseases, cancer prevention, regulates blood pressure and manages diabetes (Lansky et al., 2008). Fig fruits can be consumed in both fresh and dried form. The edible portion of fig fruit is fleshy receptacle. The sugar content in fresh fig is 16% and in dried fig is 52% (Slatnar et al., 2011).\r\nThere is a significant lack of research about the phytochemicals of fig in different cultivars and as a result, its use is still under investigation. It is necessary to study these nutritional contents to identify in different cultivars. The aim of this study was to determine differences in the physico chemical properties of the cultivars ‘Afghan’, ‘Brown Turkey’ and ‘Deanna’.\r\n \r\n\r\n\r\nMATERIALS AND METHODS\r\nFig (Ficus carica L.) fruits for the experiment were harvested from two year old trees grown in Arid Zone Fruit Block, TNAU, Coimbatore. Three fresh fig cultivars were harvested namely, Afghan, Brown Turkey and Deanna at proper maturity stage.\r\nSample preparation. Fig is a climacteric fruit and the shelf life of the fruits is very less. Hence, the fruits are harvested at early maturity stage. Maturity indices of fig is opening of ostiole and the disappearance of milky latex.The fruits which are still attached to the tree were handpicked and collected into a clean plastic bag. Each fig cultivar was evaluated for initial quality attributes of the harvested fresh fruits.The fresh fig fruits were cleaned and packed in a polyethylene film and stored in refrigerated condition at 4°C for conducting physical properties and physicochemical properties. \r\nQuality evaluation. The quality evaluation of a sample is categorised into two viz., physiological parameters and physicochemical parameters. Physiological parameters included moisture content (%), fruit colour (L*,a*, b*, h* and C*), TSS (°Brix) and in physicochemical parameters included pH, acidity (%), total sugars (g/100g), protein (g/100g), vitamin C (mg/100g), antioxidant (%), total phenols (GAE mg/100g), anthocyanin (mg/100g).The parameters were determined in all the three varieties individually to assess the quality attributes of freshly harvested fruits.\r\nPhysiological parameters\r\nMoisture content. Moisture content of the fruit is most important parameter, which affects the quality, value and freshness of the fruits. Moisture content of fig fruits was determined through dehydration process in dry basis method i.e., freshly harvested fruits were weighed and kept in a hot air oven at 105⁰C for 12hrs, the dried fruits were weighed and the moisture content is calculated. The percentage equivalent of the ratio of the weight of water (Ww) to the weight of the dry matter (Wd) described as dry basis moisture content (Md). (Amer et al., 2003)\r\nFruit colour. Fig fruits varies in pulp and skin colour based on different cultivars. The colour of fruit pulp and skin was measured using the instrument Tintometer. Colour of fruits was measured at four points, two opposite around the pedicel and two opposite around the ostiole, from the start to change during ripening. The colour development value was expressed as L*, a*, b* respectively and L* value represents lightness L* = 0 (black) to L* = 100 (white), a* value points range between green and red, which changes from –a (greenness) to + a (redness) and b* values point range between blue and yellow, which changes from -b(blueness) to +b(yellowness). Chroma (C*) means colour intensity or saturation. Hue angle (actual colour, being green, yellow-green, yellow–red, purple-black or red–black) (Karantzi et al., 2021).\r\nTSS. Total soluble solids (TSS) or Soluble solid contents (SSC) were determined by extracting and mixing the drops of juice from freshly harvested fruits into a digital refractometer or compensated handheld refractometer with a presence of refractive index accuracy of ± 0.1 and the range of 0 – 30 and values were expressed as percentage (%) or °Brix (Pereira et al., 2017).\r\nPhysicochemical parameters\r\nProtein. Protein content was determined according to Lowry’s method. 0.5 g sample was dissolved in 10 ml of buffer/distilled water, then centrifuged at 5000 rpm for 15 mins, supernatant was collected and from that 0.2 ml of sample made up to 1 ml of distilled water. 5ml of Lowry’s reagent in sample solution was added and allowed to stand it for 10 mins. 0.5 ml of Folin’s ciocalteau reagent were added, mixed well and incubated at room temperature in dark for 30 mins. After the development of blue colour, the absorbance was measured at 660 nm in UV spectrophotometer (Mahesha et al., 2012)\r\nTitratable acidity. Titratable acidity was determined according to volumetric method (Paul et al., 2010). The sample was ground and 5g of sample was dissolved and made up to 30ml with distilled water. The dissolved sample was filtered through cotton. In 5 ml of filtrate sample and 2 drops of phenolphthalein indicator solution was added. Titrated against 0.1 N NaOH. The end point of titratable acidity is the appearance of pink colour. The titratable acidity was expressed as %.\r\nAscorbic acid or Vitamin C. Vitamin C was determined according to volumetric method (Ismail et al., 2014). 10g of sample was made up into 50 ml of oxalic acid. The sample was filtered through filter paper, from that 5 ml of filtrate solution made up to 10 ml of 4 % oxalic acid. The sample solution was titrated with dye (i.e., prepared by weighing 42mg of sodium bicarbonate into small volume of distilled water and 52 mg of 2 – 6 dichloro indophenol dissolved and made up to 200 ml of distilled water). The end point is the appearance of pink colour which disappears with 30 secs. The vitamin C was expressed as mg/100g.\r\nTotal antioxidant. Total antioxidant was determined according to Brand Williams methods (Shehata, et al., 2020). In 1g of fruit extract, 10 ml of 99% methanol was added and kept in centrifuge for 15 mins in 5000 rpm. 3 ml of supernatant solution was pipetted out, in that 1 ml of 1M DPPH (2,2-diphenyl-1-1-picrylhydrazyl) was added. The sample solution was made up to 10 ml of methanol and kept in dark for 30 mins. The absorbance of DPPH and the different sample solution were measured at 517 nm against a blank consisting of methanol and the control consist of DPPH and methanol. Total antioxidant was expressed as %.\r\nTotal phenols. Total phenols were determined according to Folin Ciocalteau method (Gundesli et al., 2021). The sample extract 0.5 ml was taken and made up to 3ml of distilled water, 0.5 ml of Folin’s-Ciocalteau reagent was added and incubated for 5 mins. 2 ml of 20% sodium carbonate solution was added in sample solution mixed thoroughly and kept in boiling water bath for 10 mins. The development of light blue or dark blue coloured sample solution were measured under the absorbance at 765nm in UV spectrophotometery. The Total phenols was calculated by graph value and the values were expressed as %.\r\nTotal anthocyanin. Total Anthocyanin was determined according to the modified pH differential method (Shehata et al., 2020). 1g of sample was taken and made up to 25 ml of distilled water and kept in shaker for 2hrs. The sample extract was filtered through filter paper and made up to 25 ml of distilled water. 1ml of extract was pipetted out, in that 3 ml of 0.025M KCL buffer at pH 1.0 was added and another 1ml of extract was pipetted out, in that 3 ml of 0.4 M Sodium acetate at pH 4.5, HCl was added in buffer preparation to adjust the pH range. The absorbance was measured at 520 nm and 700 nm. The anthocyanin pigment concentration was calculated as per the formula AOAC.\r\n\r\nRESULTS AND DISCUSSIONS\r\nA. Physical properties of fresh fig fruits\r\nMoisture content. Moisture content in fruit plays an important role in the growth of microorganism which determines the shelf life, fresh consumption and also product development. The moisture content of fruits on dry weight basis for three cultivars were Afghan (79.2%), Brown Turkey (82%) and Deanna (80.1%) (Fig. 1). Brown Turkey recorded the highest moisture content which is due to the biggest size of the fruit compared to other two fig cultivars. Similar results of moisture content in brown turkey was reported by Kaul, et al. 2018. The initial moisture content of the fig ranged from 78 to 80 % (Hiregoudar et al., 2006). \r\nFruit colour. Fig cultivars vary in fruit pulp colour namely, light green, light purple, purple, dark purple, yellow and light yellow. The fruit flesh colour of fig cultivars Afghan, Brown Turkey and Deanna, L*value (48.4, 43.3 and 51.9), a* value (20.2, 24.4 and17.5), b* value (14.8, 11.6 and 19.6), C* value (38.9, 32.4 and 42.5) and h* value (42.8, 53.6 and 41.8) respectively (Fig. 2). Brown Turkey recorded the highest L*, a* and h* values, Deanna recorded the highest b* value and Afghan recorded the highest C* values compared other two cultivars. Similar findings of C* (24.6), h* (44.7) and L* (51.7) in Brown Turkey was reported by Pereira et al. (2017). The colour of the fig flesh was due to relative concentrations of pigments such as anthocyanins and carotenoids (Wang et al., 2019).\r\nTotal Soluble Solids. The Total Soluble Solid content was reported in Afghan (12.3 °Brix), Brown Turkey (13.5 °Brix), Deanna (12.8 °Brix) respectively (Fig. 3). TSS was highest in Brown Turkey compared other two cultivars. Similar findings of TSS in Brown Turkey (17 °Brix) reported by Kaul et al. (2018) and in Deanna (9.9 °Brix) reported by Priyanka, et al. (2018). The increase in TSS of fig fruits might be due to the conversion of reserved starch and other insoluble carbohydrates into soluble sugars as fig is a climacteric fruit (Sable et al., 2020).\r\nProtein. Proteins are one of the four main macromolecules which perform specialized functions inside the body. The total protein content of 1.96 g/100g, 2.8 g/100g and 2 g/100g in three cultivars Afghan, Brown Turkey and Deanna respectively (Table 1). Brown Turkey cultivar recorded the highest total protein content. Similarly, in Brown turkey total protein content was 2.48g/100g reported by Kaul et al. (2018). An increase in the total protein content might be due to the acceleration of ripening changes that initiate the array of enzyme activities. (Kulkarni et al., 2005). The decrease in total protein content might be a consequence of a reduction in demand of endogenous enzymes associated with anabolic activities, which decreased with the fruit development and maturity (Frenkel et al., 1968).\r\nTitratable acidity. The dominant organic acid in fig fruits are citric acid. Titratable acidity of 0.61%, 0.69% and 0.38% was recorded in three cultivars Afghan, Brown Turkey and Deanna respectively (Table 1). Brown Turkey cultivar recorded the highest titratable acidity content compared to other two cultivars. Similar findings of titratable acidity in Brown Turkey (0.29%) was reported by Kaul et al. (2018) and in Deanna (0.14%) were reported by Priyanka et al. (2018). Organic acids are the main contributor to acidity in fruits and vegetables and present in higher levels, which is required for metabolic pathways. Loss of acidity occurs during maturation and ripening and it is often because of the fact that these acids act as substrate for respiration and get converted into sugars (Paul et al., 2010).\r\nVitamin C. Ascorbic acid or vitamin C was abundantly present in all plant cells and performs many biological functions. Vitamin C content of 14.5 mg/100g, 8 mg/100g, 10.4 mg/100g was recorded in three cultivars Afghan, Brown Turkey and Deanna respectively (Table 1.) and Afghan recorded the highest ascorbic acid content. Similar values of vitamin Cin Brown Turkey cultivars (8 mg/100g) reported by Hiwale, (2015). At fruit matured stage, the highest accumulation rate of ascorbic acid accumulated during late fruit development and continued to accumulate during ripening (Huang et al., 2014).\r\nTotal antioxidant. Brand Williams method with some modifications was used to determine the antioxidant activity of the different extracts. Total Antioxidant content of 47%, 66% and 68% of three cultivars namely Afghan, Brown Turkey and Deanna respectively (Table 1). Deanna recorded the highest antioxidant activity. Similar values of antioxidant capacity in fig var. Azenjar (68.48%) reported by Meziant et al. (2014). The antioxidant activity was highly availablein fruits and vegetables due to the presence of polyphenol and flavonoid compounds (Solomon et al., 2006).\r\nTotal phenols. Total phenolic content of 378 (GAE mg/100g), 558 (GAE mg/100g)and 342(GAE mg/100g) was recorded in three cultivars namely Afghan, Brown Turkey and Deanna respectively (Table 1). Brown Turkey cultivar recorded the highest total phenolcontents. Similar findings of total phenolic content in Brown Turkey cultivar (577 GAEmg/100g) was reported by Kaul et al. (2018). The quantity of the phenol contents influence in fruits due to the ripeness (Gougoulias et al., 2018).\r\nTotal anthocyanin. Total anthocyanin content of0.40 mg/100g, 0.56 mg/100g and 0.33 mg/100gwas recorded in three cultivars namely Afghan, Brown Turkey and Deanna respectively (Table 1). Brown Turkey recorded the highest anthocyanin content. Similar findings of total anthocyanin in Brown turkey (1.3 mg/100g) reported by Solomon et al. (2006). Total anthocyanin level increased as the fruit ripens. Anthocyanins possess antioxidant activity which contains different pharmacological properties (Shehata et al., 2020). \r\n','D. Swetha, C. Indu Rani, G. Gurumeenakshi, M.S. Aneesa Rani, G. Amuthaselvi and R. Neelavathi (2022). Evaluation of Quality attributes in fresh fig (Ficus carica L.) fruits. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 14(3): 532-537.'),(5312,'136','Selection Criteria and Genetic Variability Studies in Early Maturing Rice (Oryza sativa L.) Genotypes','N. Lingaiah, V. Sridhar, G. Shiva Prasad, K. Sumalini and M. Goverdhan','90 Selection Criteria and Genetic Variability Studies in Early Maturing Rice (Oryza sativa L.) Genotypes N. Lingaiah.pdf','',1,'The present study was undertaken to determine the extent of variability and heritability for yield contributing characters with involvement of early group (duration 120-125 days) genotypes. The analysis of variance revealed significant genotypic difference for all the traits studied indicating that a large amount of variability present in germplasm and there is a scope for selecting promising genotypes. The results on genetic variability revealed that phenotypic coefficient of variation were higher than genotypic coefficient of variation. The values of genotypic and phenotypic coefficients of variation (GCV and PCV) were moderate for plant height, number of effective tillers per plant and number of grains per panicle and low for days to 50% flowering test weight and yield per plant. Selection for these traits would offer better scope for development. High heritability coupled with high genetic advance as percent of mean was observed for plant height indicating the preponderance of additive type of gene action for the expression of this characters and selection may be effective for improving this character. High heritability accompanied with low genetic advance as percent of mean for the trait days to 50% flowering reflected preponderance of non-additive gene action and selection for this trait may not be worthwhile. Simple correlation indicated that selection would be towards the improvement of number of grains/panicle and test weight for overall grain yield. ','Rice, GCV, PCV, Heritability, Genetic advance as percent of mean','Present study revealed that there was good amount of genetic variability in the traits number of effective tillers per plant and grains/panicle, selection would be more effective for developing these traits. ','INTRODUCTION\r\nThe knowledge of genetic variability present in a given crop species for the character under improvement is of paramount importance for the success of any plant breeding program. The primary consideration to bring about genetic improvement of a crop is the study of genetic variability. Assessment of variability for any trait is pre - requisite for a plant breeder to planning effective breeding programmes. The presence of genetic variability for morphological and yield components is most importance for identification and development of desirable genotypes as improvement in any trait is depend on the amount of genetic variability present in the material. Genetic parameters like genotypic coefficient of variation (GCV) and phenotypic coefficient of variation (PCV) are useful in detecting the amount of variability present in the germplasm. The genotypic coefficient of variation indicates the range of variability present in different characters, while the phenotypic coefficient of variation measures the role of environment on the genotypes. Heritability and genetic advance are important selection parameters. Heritability estimates along with genetic advance are normally more helpful in predicting the gain under selection than heritability estimates alone. Selection for yield per se is not reliable and indirect selection for yield component traits play an important role. Hence studies on character association not only help to understand the nature of physical linkage but also provide information on the nature and direction of association existing between the traits. Keeping in view the above perspectives, the present study was undertaken to determine the extent of variability, heritability and selection criteria for yield contributing characters present in germplasm for grain yield improvement in early (120-125 days) rice genotypes. \r\nMATERIALS AND METHOD\r\nThe present investigation was carried out during Rabi, 2022 at Agricultural Research Station, Kampasagar, Telangana state, India. The experimental material comprised of 22 rice genotypes and experiment was laid out in randomized complete block design with two replications. The recommended packages of practices were followed for raising a healthy crop. Five randomly competitive plants were selected from each replication to record observations on yield components like plant height (cm), effective tillers per plant, panicle length (cm), number of grains per panicle, test weight (g), yield/plant (g) except days to 50% flowering which was computed on plot basis. \r\nEstimates of phenotypic and genotypic coefficients of variation according to Burton & De Vane (1952) heritability estimates in broad sense according to Lush (1940) and genetic advance as per suggested by Johanson et al. (1955) and correlation coefficient according to Robinson et al. (1951) were calculated following standard statistical procedures. \r\nRESULTS AND DISCUSSION \r\nAnalysis of variance was carried out as per standard procedure by Panse and Sukhatme, (1985). The range, mean, variability estimates i.e. genotypic coefficient of variation (GCV), phenotypic coefficient of variation (PCV), heritability, genetic advance and genetic advance as percentage of mean were estimated for yield, its components presented in Table 1. The analysis of variance revealed significant genotypic difference for all the traits studied indicating that a large amount of variability was present in the material. \r\n Variability of a character is measured by its coefficient of variation. The genotypic and phenotypic coefficients of variation are classified (low: less than 10%, moderate: 10-20% and high: more than 20%) as suggested by Sivasubramanian and Madhava Menon (1973). Heritability estimates are categorized (low: less than 30%, moderate: 30-60% and high: more than 60%) as recommended by Johnson et al. (1955). The range of genetic advance as percent of mean is classified (low: less than 10%, moderate: 10-20% and high: more than 20%) as suggested by Johnson et al. (1955). \r\nThe results on genetic variability revealed that phenotypic coefficient of variation were higher than genotypic coefficient of variation. The difference between PCV and GCV was minimum for all the characters studied. The apparent variation is not only due to influence of genotype but also due to environment. A close difference between phenotypic and genotypic coefficient of variation revealed that there was a little influence of environment on the expression of the character studied.\r\nThe values of genotypic and phenotypic coefficients of variation (GCV and PCV) were moderate for plant height, number of effective tillers per plant and number of grains per panicle and low for days to 50% flowering (Manjunath et al., 2017) panicle length (Rukmini Devi et al., 2017), test weight and yield per plant. Selection for these traits would offer better scope for genotypes under study and there is a need for creation of variability either by hybridization or mutation followed by selection.\r\nHigh heritability (broad sense) estimates (>60%) were observed for all the traits viz., days to 50% flowering (85.83%), plant height (96.26), number of effective tillers per plant (78.02), panicle length (79.75), number of grains per panicle (95.55), test weight (94.87) and yield (67.90) Present results were in accordance with the findings of (Saha, 2019; Shivani et al., 2018; Lingaiah et al., 2018; Rukmini Devi et al., 2017; Srujana et al., 2017; Dhanwani et al., 2013) indicating that the variation observed was mainly under genetic control and less influenced by environment and hence selection will be effective for these traits. \r\nSince the estimates of heritability alone sometimes misleads interpretation hence estimates of genetic advance as percent of mean is used for better prediction of characters under study. The values of genetic advance as percent of mean were moderate for number of grains per panicle low for all the remaining characters under study. Similar results were reported by Kole et al. (2008). Heritability alone fails to indicate the response to selection and a character having high heritability may not necessary give high genetic advance. Therefore, heritability should be always considered along with genetic advance as percent of mean to arrive at a more reliable conclusion. High heritability coupled with high genetic advance as percent of mean was observed for plant height (Dhurai et al., 2013; Anjaneyulu et al., 2010.) indicating the preponderance of additive type of gene action for the expression of this characters and selection may be effective for improving this character. High heritability accompanied with low genetic advance as percent of mean for the trait days to 50% flowering (Singh and Verma 2018; Bhukya Rambabu et al., 2022) reflected preponderance of non-additive gene action and selection for this trait may not be worthwhile. High heritability coupled with moderate genetic advance recorded for effective tillers per plant, panicle length (Akinola et al., 2019) number of grains per panicle, test weight and yield. \r\n The efficiency of selection for yield mainly depends on the direction and magnitude of association between yield and its component characters and also among themselves. Character association provides information on the nature and extent of association between pairs of metric traits and helps in selection for the improvement of the character. The knowledge regarding relative contribution of individual traits to yield may be accomplished by correlation studies. Further, the component characters of yield exhibit different associations among themselves and also with yield. Unfavorable associations between the desired attributes under selection may limit genetic advance. Therefore, knowledge on the magnitude of association between the yield and its attributing characters is essential for planning sound breeding programme. \r\nIn the present investigation, simple correlation studies were estimated for yield and its components. The character days to 50% flowering, plant height, panicle lengthy and test weight showed the non-significant positive correlation with grain yield, where as effective tillers per plant (Edukondalu et al. 2017; Manjunatha et al., 2017; Srikanth Thippani et al., 2017; Rukmini devi et al., 2017) and number of grains per panicle (Vinoth et al., 2016; Chandrashekhar Haradari and Shailaja Hittalmani 2017) recorded significant positive correlation with yield. The study of simple correlation in the present investigation suggested that selection of plants with more number of productive tillers per plant, number of grains per panicle and test weight which had significant positive association with yield may be taken in to account in rice breeding program for yield improvement. \r\n','N. Lingaiah, V. Sridhar, G. Shiva Prasad, K. Sumalini and M. Goverdhan (2022). Selection Criteria and Genetic Variability Studies in Early Maturing Rice (Oryza sativa L.) Genotypes. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 14(3): 538-541.'),(5313,'136','Transgenic Tobacco Expressing a Novel Bt gene, Cry1AcF, showed Resistance against Helicoverpa armigera','Saakre Manjesh, K. Venkat Raman, Shaily Tyagi, Sandeep Jaiswal, Krishnayan Paul, Jyotsana Tilgam, Joshitha Vijayan, Rohini Sreevathsa and Debasis Pattanayak*','91 Transgenic Tobacco Expressing a Novel Bt gene, Cry1AcF, Showed Resistance Against Helicoverpa armigera Manjesh Saakre.pdf','',1,'Helicoverpa armigera is a notorious insect-pest that causes massive yield losses to several agriculturally important food crops every year. Helicoverpa armigera decimates food crops like tomato, potato, and brinjal as well as cotton, soybean in India. Overexpression of a novel Bacillus thuringiensis (Bt) cry (crystal) gene is being explored in the development of H. armigera resistant crops. In this study, we showed that the chimeric Bt gene cry1AcF, which was developed by swapping the domains of the cry1Ac and cry1F genes, is effective against Helicoverpa armigera. The recombinant binary vector pCAMBIA2300::CaMV35s: cry1AcF: OCST harbouring cry1AcF gene was introduced into (Nicotiana tabacum L. cv. Petit Havana) using Agrobacterium mediated tobacco transformation. We have developed in-vitro transgenic plants and characterized ten putative transgenic tobacco lines by using PCR and strip tests. An insect bioassay was performed with detached leaves to evaluate the extent of leaf damage and larval mortality in order to select those transgenic events with superior performance. Further insect bioassay, conducted using selected transgenic lines, resulted in 85-90% larval mortality, indicating high efficacy against H. armigera. The efficiency of the novel chimeric Bt gene, cry1AcF, was demonstrated by the high level of resistance in transgenic tobacco against the insect pest H. armigera. The cry1AcF gene can be an extremely valuable asset towards resistance management against H. armigera in other susceptible crops. ','Helicoverpa armigera, cry1AcF, durable resistance, transgenic tobacco','A large group of insects have developed resistance against insecticides and Bt to overcome the selection pressure. But there is enough scope to enhance the efficacy of Cry toxin through the usage of next generation Bt toxins. Cry1AcF is a chimeric gene that has been successfully validated for efficacy against H. armigera. Next generation Bt technology is a potent and efficient approach for insect-pest by developing resistant transgenic plants. Combining the different Bt toxins using domain swapping and developing transgenics with Bt technology could be a potential strategy for delaying insect resistance. Results have shown fruitful in terms of efficacy of Cry1AcF toxin and promise to be an extremely valuable approach for durable resistance against H. armigera. ','INTRODUCTION\r\nGlobal population growth has led to increase the demands and supplies for agricultural products. A number of factors are making ensuring food security in a sustainable manner increasingly difficult. Globally, insect-pests cause upto 40% yield losses in crop plants, making them one of the most important biotic concerns. Helicoverpa armigera is an important Lepidopteran polyphagous insect-pest that feeds on more than 350 plant species. In India, this noctuid pest causes serious problems to a number of economically important crops such as cotton, maize and some vegetable crops (Navik et al., 2021). Due its Polyphagous nature and migratory activity, it has been developed resistance against many insecticides. Chemical pesticides are ineffective due to this insect’s evolved resistance against many insecticides from different chemical classes and are also hazardous to conventional breeding imparting resistance against Helicoverpa armigera is so far not successful due to lack of resistant gene pool in the crop germplasms which is difficult to introgress resistance genes into elite varieties. Under such situation the, bacteria Bt emerged as solution. Using transgenic technology for plant protection in crop plants was made possible by the introduction of plant genetic engineering and Bt insectisidal proteins (Karthik et al., 2021). Transfer of Bt insecticidal crystal protein (Cry) coding genes into susceptible crops is the most common method of combating insect resistance. However the long term efficacy of Bt toxins is eventually deteriorated due to the evolution of resistance by pests (Badran et al., 2016; Moar et al., 2017). Both synthetic insecticides and several Bt toxins are no longer effective against Helicoverpa armigera. The evolution of insect resistance against Bt was due to alterations in midgut proteases and a number of major mutations in the insect gene that codes for the receptor protein. Insects have evolved resistance to Bt, resulting in a substantial reduction in the binding specificity of a Cry protein. Various approaches have been used to improve toxicity against certain target species, including those which have developed resistance to Bt. The most approaches include refugia and gene pyramiding (Ren et al., 2019). Although gene pyramids delay cross-resistance, but still there is a lack of diversity and combinations of resistance genes that possibly increase resistant alleles in insects over time and space as the proportion of homozygous individuals increase in insect populations (Dale et al., 2002; Manyangarirwa et al., 2006). Recently, protein-engineering methods have been emerged to develop next generation Bt toxins through domain swapping which is a viable approach to combat resistance against broad host range. Cry1AcF is one such chimeric Bt protein created by swapping domains of cry1Ac and cry1F, that showed synergistic effect and increased specificity against H. armigera with improved durability (Kumar et al., 2011; Rathinam et al., 2019). The first and second domains of this protein are derived from cry1Ac and the third domain is derived from cry1F. The chimeric Cry1AcF showed increased toxicity against Helicoverpa armigera, revealing synergistic effects (Chakrabarti et al., 1998). This toxin has been shown effective against Helicoverpa armigera and Spodoptera litura in previous studies (Keshamma et al., 2012; Keshavareddy et al., 2013; Muralimohan et al., 2020). In this study, we tested the efficacy of transgenic tobacco plants expressing cry1AcF against Helicoverpa armigera. The larvae of H. armigera fed on transgenic tobacco leaves expressing the chimeric cry1AcF gene showed growth retardation and a significant mortality rate.\r\nMATERIALS AND METHODS\r\nConstruction of binary vector cassette harbouring cry1AcF for tobacco transformation. The cry1AcF cassette was transferred on to the binary vector pCAMBIA 2300 from the pET expression vector carrying the cry1AcF cassette. The complete cry1AcF cassette contains CaMV 35S promoter, cry1AcF gene and OCS terminator. The complete cassette was excised out from pET vector by EcoRI and Hind III digestion and ligated onto linearized pCAMBIA 2300 get pC::cry1AcF. Using heat shock transformation, the ligated circularized vector was transformed into Escherichia coli HiPurA™ DH5α competent cells. Both colony PCR and restriction analysis confirmed the presence of positive bacterial colonies. The vector cassette pC::cry1AcF was introduced into the Agrobacterium strain EHA 105 using the freeze thaw technique. The EHA105 cells harboring the pC::cry1AcF binary vector was then subsequently transferred to tobacco according to the procedure described by Saini et al., (2018). The putative transgenic plants were transferred into pots containing sterile soilrite and protected properly with polythene cover made with holes to maintain humidity. Transgenic plants along with vector control plants were then transferred to a transgenic nethouse for hardening. \r\nPCR screening of putative transformants. Plant genomic DNA was isolated using the CTAB method (Doyle and Doyle, 1990) from transgenic tobacco plants and vector control tobacco plants. PCR was performed to amplify the transgene fragment using gene-specific primers (Table 1). Plasmid of pC::cry1AcF was used as a positive control in all PCR reactions. A PCR reaction mixture of 25 µl was prepared for each sample comprising 100 ng plant genomic DNA, 10X PCR buffer (100 mMTris-HCl (pH 8.3), 500 mMKCl, 15 mM MgCl2), dNTP mixture (2.5 mM each), 1µM each of forward and reverse primers and 1 U of Taq DNA Polymerase (Takara, India). PCR aamplification was performed with initial denaturation at 95°C for 5 min followed by 35 cycles, each consisting of denaturation at 95° C for 40 sec, annealing at 55° C for 40 sec and extension at 68°C for 40 sec followed by final extension for 10 min at 68°C (ABI Veriti™ PCR cycler). The amplified PCR product was electrophoresed on a 0.8 % agarose gel (Biorad) and a gel documentation system (Azure 600 gel imaging system) was used to capture the image of amplified DNA fragments. \r\nCry1AcF lateral flow strips (LFS) test for confirmation of protein expression. Cry1Ac LFS specific for Cry protein was used to test the PCR tested tobacco transformants for expression of Cry protein (Eurofins Amar Immunodiagnostics Pvt Ltd, Hyderabad). Cry1AcF expression was detected from transgenic plants\' leaf tissue using the immunological kit \"Cry1Ac LFS\". The leaf samples from 10 transgenic events and vector control plant were collected in a sterile microfuge tube (1.5 ml). Extraction buffer of 500 µl (provided along with the kit) was added and crushed with the help of micro pestle. Then the LFS strips were placed in the tube containing the leaf extract. The results were observed after incubating for 1-2 minutes at room temperature. \r\nInsect feeding bioassays. Insecticidal activity of transgenic tobacco lines expressing Cry1AcF was evaluated by detached leaf feeding bioassays for 96 hours. Ten PCR tested tobacco transgenic lines were examined for the level of resistance to Helicoverpa armigera. Three plants from each transgenic line were taken, and two leaves from each plant were fed second instar larvae. A total of 30 larvae were fed to each transgenic line, with five larvae per leaf. Tobacco transgenic lines transformed with pCAMBIA2300 vector without any transgene served as control. From the top, second or third healthy leaves were taken from each line, cut into size, and placed on moist filter paper kept in a petridish (90 ×15 mm size). Five second instar larvae were released with each leaf for feeding. In order to maintain relative humidity, autoclaved double distilled water was applied to the filter paper at regular intervals. Para film was used to seal the plates, and tiny holes were drilled to allow for aeration. All the plates were kept in the insect culture room and the culture room was maintained at 270C at 80% relative humidity and 16 hours of sunlight and 8 hours of darkness. Larval mortality was recorded and analyzed every 24 hours until 96 hours. Further, three best performing lines were selected based on mortality rate and extent of leaf. \r\nRESULTS AND DISCUSSION \r\nComplete cry1AcF gene construct was transferred from pET expression vector system to binary vector pCAMBIA2300 developed as pC::CaMV35SP:cry1AcF:NosT (pC::AcF). pET vector harbouring cry1AcF cassette was restricted with EcoRI and HindIII enzymes to take out the gene construct, which was then ligated onto pCAMBIA2300 vector backbone linearized by EcoRI and HindIII restriction to the binary vector cassette, pC::AcF as shown schematically in Fig. 1 (A). Different enzyme combinations were used for restriction analysis to confirm that all components of pC::AcF are in the right orientation (Fig. 1B). pC::AcF was digested with Hind III to yield a DNA fragment of about 10 kb fragment was linearized. After restriction with EcoRI and Hind III, 2.65 kb of DNA corresponding to cry1AcF was released.\r\nThe binary vector cassette pC::AcF was transformed into the EHA105 A. tumefaciens strain after confirmation by restriction analysis, and colony PCR was performed using nptII gene specific primers. The PCR positive bacterial colonies were selected for tobacco transformation (Fig. 2).\r\nA well-matured second leaf was excised aseptically from an in vitro cultured tobacco plant, cut into small discs using scalpel and blade and then cultured for 48 hours on a pre-culture medium. Agrobacterium strain EHA105 infected leaf discs and incubated on co-cultivation media for two days under the dark condition. Co-cultivated leaf discs were transferred into petri-plates containing MS selection medium containing antibiotics and growth hormones (Fig. 3A). After co-cultivation, carbenicillin (500 mg/l) and cefotaxime (500 mg/l) were used to eliminate the growth of Agrobacterium. For the selection of the transformants, kanamycin (100 mg/l) was added to the selection medium. The selection medium was kept at a high BAP (2 mg/l) to NAA (0.1 mg/l) ratio to aid in the development of adventitious shoots from the explants. The preliminary screening of transformants on selection medium was facilitated by kanamycin-induced selection pressure on explants. The explants were developed into adventitious shoots after kanamycin selection. Transformed explants gave rise to callus (Fig. 3B), shoot primordial (Fig. 3C) and shoot in a sequential manner (Fig. 3D). Well-developed shoots of about 5 cm height were excised from regenerating compact callus and transferred to rooting medium. After proper development of roots in rooting media (Fig. 3E), plants were hardened by shifting them to pots for hardening (Fig. 3F) and were grown in transgenic net house. PCR screening was performed using genomic DNA extracted from leaves of each putative transformant. \r\nPCR analysis with gene specific primers resulted amplification of a 450bp fragment of cry1AcF gene from 10 plants (Bt-1 to Bt-10), but no amplification from vector control. pC::AcF DNA was used as positive control (Fig. 4A). Immunological Cry1Ac LFS analysis was done on ten tobacco transgenic lines to determine the expression of Cry1AcF (Eurofins Amar Immunodiagnostics Pvt Ltd, Hyderabad). A highly intense upper blue line on the strip indicates the control band and the lower blue line specify the expression of Cry1AcF protein in transgenic samples. Cry1Ac protein expression was recorded in all the 10 transgenic tobacco lines (Fig. 4B). \r\nThe effectiveness of tobacco transgenic lines against H. armigera was tested by detached leaf feeding bioassays with second instar larvae. Detached leaf insect bioassay was performed till 96 hours to access the extent of leaf damage and percentage of larval mortality for the selection of superior transgenic events. Observations like larval growth retardation, and mortality were recorded regularly till the completion of 96 h. Ten transgenic lines were lines were subjected to insect bioassay and recorded the mortality rates, out of which three transgenic events showed 85-90 average % mortality after 96 h of continues feeding as compared with vector control (6.67 % mortality) (Fig. 5). It was observed that only 6-11% leaf damage caused by H. armigera in three transgenic plants expressing cry1AcF gene (Fig. 6 (A) and (B)). During bioassays, the larvae that fed transgenic leaves behaved erratically and frequently switched the sites where they were feeding, in contrast to the typically acting vector control larvae. \r\nTo meet the demands of a growing population, crop production must be increased. Insect pests are responsible for the greatest limitation of agricultural productivity. Developing and deploying insect-resistant varieties is one of the methods of reducing yield loss and thereby increasing production (Popp et al., 2013). Helicoverpa armigera emerged as the most dangerous and lethal pest for many agriculturally important crop plants, leading to severe economic losses (Makgoba et al., 2021). Varietal resistance to H. armigera is either very moderate or negligible, and cannot be deployed to control infestation by this destructive insect-pest. Two approaches such as chemical management and transgenic technology have so far proved successful in controlling Helicoverpa armigera. Despite its effectiveness in controlling inscet-pest, chemical management is expensive and harmful to the environment and human health. Genetic engineering of transgenic crops has been successfully applied to control insect-pest attacks. In modern agriculture, insecticidal proteins encoded by the genes of B. thuringiensis (Bt) are more effective and are used successfully to control most of the lepidopteran pests (Pinheiro and Valicente 2021). However, the efficacy of Bt-strategy has been questioned due to cross-resistance among insect-pests. In fact, numerous insect species are already resistant to Bt toxins in the field population which is a major concern for the long-term durability of Bt crops (Baum et al., 2015). Therefore, it has become an emergency task to develop new pest management strategies. Insect resistance can be slowed down in several ways by using alternative strategies which include refugia (Bates et al., 2005), tissue specific expression of toxin encoding genes (Zaidi et al., 2005; Wang et al., 2016), temporal and spatial rotations of transgenic varieties (Bates et al., 2005). However, there have been many reports of pink bollworm resistance to Bt-cotton in India as a result of poor refuge plantings for many years (Mohan, 2020). It has been suggested that gene pyramiding is the most effective way to manage Bt resistance. The motive behind the use of gene pyramiding was to delay the development of resistance by using two or more toxins that bind distinct positions of receptors of the epithelial cells in midgut of the larvae. Hence, developing resistance to different toxins requires mutations in distinct sites in receptor genes at the same time, which is extremely rare in insects. The second generation dual-Bt cotton varieties, Bollgard II (Cry 1Ac + Cry 2Ab) and Wide Strike (Cry 1Ac + Cry 1F) reduced Helicoverpa zea infestation which could not be adequately controlled with the Cry1Ac alone (Manyangarirwa et al., 2006). In a study, Pectinophora gossypiella larvae have shown resistance to the two widely used Bt toxins Cry1Ac and Cry2Ab under laboratory conditions. The same strain of larvae survived when tested on cotton bolls expressing solely Cry1Ac toxins, however there was mortality when tested on cotton bolls expressing both Cry1Ac and Cry2Ab toxins, indicating asymmetrical cross-resistance (Liu, et al., 2017). Although gene pyramids delay cross-resistance, the distribution of homozygous individuals in insect populations may increase resistance over time because the proportion of homozygous individuals in insect populations increases, despite the existence of gene pyramids to delay cross-resistance (Dale et al., 2002; Manyangarirwa et al., 2006). In addition, pyramided Bt toxins are become significantly less effective due to antagonisms and cross-resistances (Ni et al., 2017). Consequently, it is necessary to create or search for Bt proteins with higher toxicity and broader host ranges. It is possible to increase the binding affinity of Cry proteins by changing their domains, or by adding non-Cry protein fragments or peptides (Deist et al., 2014). An investigation demonstrated that expression of domain swapped chimeric proteins made host plants more resistant to a wide range of insect-pests and considerably prevented the introduction of insect-pest incidence (Muralimohan et al., 2020). eCry3.1Ab, a chimeric Bt protein targeted at both lepidopteran and coleopteran insect pests, was developed by integrating domain III of Cry1Ab into Cry3A. The chimeric protein showed acute toxicity and caused 94% mortality against Western corn rootworm (Walters et al., 2010). The chimeric toxin Cry1AcF developed as a result of swapping cry1Ac and cry1F domains to increase potency against lepidopteran insects especially against H. armigera (Kumar et al., 2013). It has been reported that the Cry1AcF is safe and allergen free (Rathinam et al., 2017). In the present study, we developed transgenic tobacco expressing the chimeric Cry1AcF Bt protein to test its efficacy against H. armigera. Ten transgenic tobacco lines were obtained after screening of putative transformants by gene specific PCR. Strip test confirmed Cry1AcF expression in all of these 10 transgenic tobacco lines. Detached leaf insect bioassay was conducted with second instar showed varied resistance level in these 10 transgenic lines as evidenced by growth retardation and mortality of H. armigera larvae. The transgenic tobacco lines were confirmed by PCR and strip test and grown in a controlled environment until they reached maturity. The phenotypic comparison of transgenic plants and wild-type controls revealed no phenotypic difference in plant growth. The effectiveness of the cry1AcF gene against H. armigera in transgenic tobacco plants was assessed using leaf detached insect bioassay. Leaf detached insect bioassay demonstrated that the transgenic plants expressed the transgene were exhibited higher mortality of 90% against H. armigera larvae with less leaf damage as compared with vector control. Our study obtained highest mortality rates of 72-80% after 96 hrs of continues feeding second-instar larvae to the plants that express cry1AcF gene. Furthermore, the best performing superior lines were fed with fifth instar larvae to check the resistance against larvae. In one transgenic line (Bt-7), the larvae died after 96 hrs of continuous feeding where as in vector control the fourth instar larvae was developed into pupa. This clearly indicates that this insecticidal gene can be more effective against H. armigera second instar as well as for higher instar larvae.','Saakre Manjesh, K. Venkat Raman, Shaily Tyagi, Sandeep Jaiswal, Krishnayan Paul, Jyotsana Tilgam, JoshithaVijayan, Rohini Sreevathsa and Debasis Pattanayak (2022). Transgenic Tobacco Expressing a Novel Bt gene, Cry1AcF, Showed Resistance Against Helicoverpa armigera. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 14(3): 542-548.'),(5314,'136','Isolation and characterization of Actinobacteria Habiting Rhizosphere of Acid Lime Crop','Sandhiya R., Manonmani K., Kalpana K., Kannan P., Eraivan Arutkani Aiyanathan and Akila R.','92 Isolation and characterization of Actinobacteria Habitating Rhizosphere of Acid Lime Crop Manonmani Kr.pdf','',1,'Citrus greening disease is one of the severe diseases causing major threat to Citrus industry across the world. It is caused by an unculturable phloem limited proteobacteria, Candidatus Liberibacter asiaticus (CLas). The available management practices are incapable of limiting CLas multiplication and proliferation in Citrus tissues. Concurrently, exploring new management options for this disease is also a highly complicated task due to its unculturable nature, prolonged latency and uneven distribution within the crop canopy. Exploitation of microbiome of Citrus crops is being considered as the best option to manage this systemic pathogen. Hence, this study was carried out with an aim to isolate actinobacteria residing in rhizosphere of healthy acid lime (Citrus aurantifolia) trees to manage the proliferation of CLas in phloem tissues and improve growth promotion in acid lime crops. Isolations were done with the 10 rhizosphere soil samples collected from acid lime cultivating areas of Tamilnadu. Characteristics of these isolates on Starch Casein Agar medium were observed, which revealed the differences in colony colour, surface, texture and consistency. Initially colony showed a slight colour variation, but after maturation, the colony colour at the reverse side of the Petri plates showed the considerable variations with different hues of yellow, pink, brown and violet colour. Colony surfaces of the isolates were granular and powdery. Colony texture also expressed variations such as discrete, lichenoid and butyrous consistency. Soluble pigment was found to seep into the medium of the isolates. Biochemical characterization studies also added substantial evidences to make a conclusion that five out of 10 isolates were Streptomyces spp. Further exploration on the plant growth promoters and antibiotics production by these Streptomyces spp. will definitely give a lead for improving the Citrus crop health.','Acid lime, Rhizosphere soil, Actinobacteria, Cultural characteristics, Biochemical charactersistics','Studies conducted on actinobacteria highlighted the biochemical characteristics of the 10 isolated species and out of which, five isolates were confirmed at the genus level as Streptomyces spp. Based on the above work and the detailed discussions, it is clearly concluded that actinobacteria, and especially Streptomyces are the beneficial bacteria, and are the prospective agents for use as plant coinoculants in microbial consortium to improve plant–microbe symbiosis and thus it could help in managing greening disease in Citrus crop. ','INTRODUCTION\r\nActinobacteria are a group of prokaryotic microorganisms and are Gram-positive with high G+C content in their DNA (Lo et al., 2002). They are widely distributed in soil, water and plants. They are aerobic organisms and are well known for the production of secondary metabolites. The most important and dominant genus within Actinobacteria is Streptomyces (Ceylan et al., 2008). Streptomyces provides more than half of the naturally occurring antibiotics (Bérdy, 2005) with high commercial value and continue to be routinely screened for interesting bioactive substances (Takahashi, 2004; Meena et al., 2013). The actinomycines represent an important class of natural products that continue to be a focus of many research areas (Kurosawa et al., 2006; Praveen et al., 2008). \r\nActinobacteria isolated from soil samples have the potential to inhibit the growth of plant pathogens and improve the plant health (Jeffrey et al., 2007; Kekuda et al., 2010). Few examples of Actinobacteria used to manage Citrus diseases are Streptomyces chumphonensis against Citrus green mould caused by Penicillium digitatum, Streptomyces sp. against Citrus canker, Citrus foot rot and Citrus nematode etc. Xu et al. (2018) reported the structure and function of the global Citrus microbiome from bulk and rhizosphere soils of Citrus spp. in six continents, accordingly dominant prokaryotic phyla reported were Proteobacteria, Actinobacteria, Acidobacteria, and Bacteroidetes. Li et al. (2021) reported that the microbial therapy using Actinobacteria, Yeast, Rhizobium, along with other beneficial bacteria, and plant growth regulators is promising in managing greening disease in Citrus.\r\nIn accordance with these reports, the present study was carried out to explore the rhizosphere of healthy acid lime trees for isolation of actinobacteria and to choose the potential candidates among them for plant growth promotion and disease management in acid lime crop.\r\nMATERIALS AND METHODS\r\nCollection and pretreatment of soil samples. Rhizosphere soil samples from healthy acid lime trees were collected during the survey conducted in various districts of North Tamil Nadu such as Vellore, Tiruppattur, Ranipet, Kanchipuram, Tiruvallur, Dharmapuri, Krishnagiri, Perambalur, Ariyalur and Namakkal. The survey was taken up during March to April, 2021. \r\nCollected soil samples were air dried separately for one week to reduce the population of Gram negative bacteria and were sieved separately. Heat treatment of the samples was done by placing them in hot air oven at 121°C for 1 hr to prevent the growth of other bacteria (Gurung et al., 2020).\r\nIsolation and characterization of actinobacteria. Isolation of actinobacteria from pretreated soil samples was carried out by the serial dilution and plating technique (Aparanji and Venkata 2013) using Starch Casein Agar (SCA) medium (Küster and Williams, 1964).\r\nIt was prepared by adding the required components in distilled water and boiled to dissolve the content completely. The prepared medium was sterilized by autoclaving at 15 lbs pressure (121°C) for 20 minutes. \r\nFrom each preprocessed rhizophere soil samples, one gram of soil was taken and added to a test tube containing nine ml sterile water and shaken vigorously using an orbital shaker at 200rpm for 10 min at 25 ± 2°C and these test tubes were considered as stock culture for the soil samples. Then, one ml of aliquot from the stock solution was transferred aseptically to a test tube containing nine ml of sterile water and mixed well. From this test tube, one ml of aliquot was again transferred and mixed with another nine ml of distilled water to make 10-3 dilution. Similarly, serial dilutions up to 10-6 were made for all soil samples (Oskay et al., 2004). One ml of aliquot from the aqueous dilutions of 10-2 and 10-3 was taken and spread onto the Petri plate containing SCA medium. The plates were incubated at 28°C, and observed from 5th day onwards to 20th day. After incubation, colonies with suspected actinobacteria morphology were sub-cultured on SCA medium and incubated at 28°C for 2 to 5 days. \r\nPure cultures were maintained in SCA slants and stored in glycerol broth at 4°C for further studies. Cultural and morphological characteristics of actinobacteria were recorded (Basavaraj et al., 2010).\r\nBiochemical characterization of actinobacteria. Reaction of actinobacteria isolates with Gram stain was assessed and biochemical tests such as citrate utilization test, starch hydrolysis test and catalase test (Sapkota et al., 2020) were carried out. For Citrate utilization test, Simmons citrate agar medium was poured on sterile Petri plate and allowed to solidify. The isolates were inoculated and incubated for 5-7 days at 35°C to 37°C. Colour change in the reaction was observed.\r\nStarch hydrolysis test was performed by streaking a loop ful of colony at the centre of the Petri plate containing Starch agar medium and incubated upto seven days at 37°C. After incubation 2-3 drops of 10 per cent iodine solution was added directly onto the edge of colonies. The observation was recorded after 10-15 minutes. Similarly, Catalase reaction was tested with a loop full of actinobacteria colony, which was transferred to the surface of a clean, dry glass slide. A drop of H2O2 (3%) was added on the culture and observed for the development of oxygen bubbles.\r\nRESULTS AND DISCUSSION\r\nRhizosphere soil samples were collected from matured, healthy acid lime trees belonging to the age group starting from 6 yrs to15 yrs in the orchards located in North Tamilnadu, India. Ten actinobacteria species viz., ACT- VEL-1, ACT- TPT-2, ACT- RAP-3, ACT- TRV-4, ACT- KAP-5, ACT- PER-6, ACT- DAM-7, ACT- KRG-8, ACT- NAM-9 and ACT- ARL-10 were isolated and maintained for further studies in Starch Casein Agar (SCA) medium (Table 1). In agreement with these findings, Xu et al. (2007) isolated various species of actinobacteria and reported that rhizosphere soils were the rich source of beneficial microbes, where prokaryotes dominated and actinobacteria played important role in symbiotic association with crop roots. Tindall et al. (2010) described the polyphasic approach for characterization of actinobacteria that depicted the variety of phenotypic, chemotaxonomic, and genotypic data and most actinobacteria were characterized and classified on the basis of their morphology \r\nSince, the morphological characteristics were one of the most basic indexes providing in-depth information on a taxon, cultural characteristics of isolated actinobacteria were documented in this study. The isolated 10 actinobacteria isolates were observed over their growth on SCA medium. Initially, they produced the colonies with smooth surface and on maturation their colony morphology and colour expressed variations. Colony colour of the ten isolates was found to be in different shades of grey and white. After maturation, the colony colour at the reverse side of the Petri plates showed sharp variation. The isolates viz., ACT- VEL-1, ACT-RAP-3, ACT-KAP-5, ACT-PER-6 and ACT-KRG-8 were produced different shades of yellow colour colonies, ACT-TPT-2 and ACT-TRV-4 produced pale pink and cinnamon brown colour colonies respectively. Isolates, ACT-DAM-7 and ACT-ARL-10 produced strikingly different colour colonies with violet and pale violet colour. Isolate ACT-NAM-9 alone had grey colour colonies. Similarly, Van Thanh et al., (2019) isolated 26 endophytic actinobacteria from Horsetail plant and were classified into five color groups as White, Grey, Pink and Brown and Blue based on the color of sporulating aerial mycelium. Among them, Grey group accounted for the biggest portion with 12 strains followed by White group and Brown group. This study also reported that the colony colour of the isolated ten actinobacteria were grouped into two as grey and white. \r\nColony surface showed two different characters such as granular and powdery colonies; out of ten isolates, the following six isolates viz., ACT- VEL-1, ACT-RAP-3, ACT-KAP-5, ACT-PER-6, ACT-DAM-7 and ACT-KRG-8 had granulated colonies and the remaining four isolates, ACT-TPT-2, ACT-TRV-4,ACT-NAM-9 and ACT-ARL-10 produced powdery colonies. \r\nLikewise differences were also observed in colony texture. Colonies of the isolates like, ACT-TPT-2, ACT-PER-6 and ACT-DAM-7 were discrete, while ACT- VEL-1, ACT-RAP-3, ACT-KAP-5 and ACT-KRG-8 produced lichenoid colonies. The remaining three isolates such as ACT-TRV-4, ACT-NAM-9 and ACT-ARL-10 were observed to be with butyrous consistency. The observed characters were comparable with the findings of Basavaraj et al. (2010). They documented the antibiotic producing potential of many actinobacteria and studied their cultural characters using crowded technique. Accordingly the isolates exhibited the variations in colony colour from grey to white. Two types of colony texture viz., lichenoid and butyrous were reported among them. \r\nWilliam Whitman and Aidan Parte (2012) also documented related findings in Streptomycetales members of actinobacteria and they explained that most of the actinobacteria colonies were discrete and lichenoid and few of them were leathery and butyrous. These colonies initially had a smooth surface, but later develop a weft of aerial mycelium, which appeared floccose and granular. Phan Thi Hong-Thao et al. (2016) also isolated endophytic actinobacteria from orange tissues and reported the similar observations on the colony characteristics. Accordingly the colony surface was powdery and curled. Aerial and substrate mycelia were grey to light brown or light yellow to brownish yellow on medium. \r\nSoluble pigments were found to seep into the medium of the isolates viz., ACT-TPT-2, ACT-DAM-7and ACT-ARL-10,but non soluble pigment production was observed with the other seven colonies as they retain their pigments in their colonies itself (Table 2; Plate1). Similarly, William Whitman and Aidan Parte, (2012) explained that Microtetraspora and Streptomyces strains produced diffusible melanoid pigments with diverse molecular structures that typically appear black or brown, red, yellow, orange, pink, brownish, distinct brown, greenish brown, blue, or black, depending on the strain, the medium used, and the age of the culture. Soluble yellow pigment production was observed on media viz., ISP2 and ISP3 by actinobacteria isolatedfrom orange crop (Phan Thi Hong-Thao et al., 2016).\r\nBiochemical characteristics of isolated actinobacteria. \r\nBiochemical characteristics were analyzed using Gram staining technique. The colonies of the 10 isolates were observed to retain the purple colour after Gram staining under light microscope which indicated that the isolates were Gram positive. It was well established by many studies that Actinobacteria species like Streptomyces, Micromonospora, Rhodococcus, and Salinisporas are Gram-positive bacteria with high G+C DNA content that constitute one of the largest bacterial phyla, and are ubiquitously distributed in both aquatic and terrestrial ecosystems (Muthu et al., 2013; Van Thanh et al., 2019).\r\nIn Citrate utilisation test, the positive reaction was indicated by the change of colour from green to blue, which was due to the alkylation process by actinobacteria. The isolates viz., ACT- VEL-1, ACT- TPT-2, ACT- TRV-4, ACT- KAP-5, ACT- PER-6, ACT- KRG-8 and ACT- ARL-10 showed positive reaction whereas the isolates, ACT- RAP-3, ACT- DAM-7 and ACT- NAM-9 were negative for this test. \r\nFormation of clear zone around the colonies was observed for the positive result of starch hydrolysis test. Among the 10 isolates, seven isolates exhibited the positive reaction .The remaining three isolates like, ACT- TPT-2, ACT- PER-6 and ACT- NAM-9 were found to express negative reaction. When the colonies of all isolates were treated with H2O2 (3%), oxygen bubbles were observed. It indicated the positive reaction for catalase test (Table 3; Plate 2). Agreeing with these findings Sapkota et al. (2020) reported that Streptomyces spp belongs to the family Streptomycetaceae and the order Streptomycetales were aerobic, Gram-stain-positive, non-acid-fast bacteria that form extensively branched substrate and aerial mycelia. They were Catalase-positive and reduced nitrates to nitrites and degraded polymeric substrates such as adenine, gelatin and hypoxanthine. \r\nBoth the morphological and biochemical characteristics revealed that out of ten isolates, five isolates viz., ACT- VEL-1, ACT-TRV-4, ACT-KAP-5, ACT-KRG-8and ACT-ARL-10 were Streptomyces spp. and further exploration on the plant growth promoters and antibiotics production by these Streptomyces spp. will definitely give a lead for improving the Citrus crop health.\r\n','Sandhiya R., Manonmani K., Kalpana K., Kannan P., Eraivan Arutkani Aiyanathan and Akila R. (2022). Isolation and characterization of Actinobacteria Habiting Rhizosphere of Acid Lime Crop. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 14(3): 549-556.'),(5315,'136','Variability and Association Studies for Yield Components in OsPSTOL 1 gene Introgressed Backcross Inbred Lines (BILs) of Rice','Anusha R., N. Aananthi, C. Vanniarajan, R. Renuka, P. Kannan and V. Nirubana','93 Variability and Association Studies for Yield Components in OsPSTOL 1 gene Introgressed Backcross Inbred Lines (BILs) of Rice Anusha R.pdf','',1,'Globally rice is considered to beone of the most significant staple food. It is a member of the family Poaceae and holds a unique position among domesticated crop species. Abiotic stress causes 50 percent of yield losses worldwide. Phosphorus is the second-most critical component after nitrogen and it is considered a key factor for optimum crop productivity on arable land all over the world. Phosphorus deficiency is a major constraint in India, with approximately 60 percent of the rice-growing areas in South India suffering it. Genetic variability, correlation, and path analysis for yield contributing traits were studied on 12 backcross populations consisting of 120 plants. The high PCV and GCV were observed for plant height followed by single plant yield, number of productive tillers, the total number of tillers, and filled grains per panicle indicating the influence of the environment exhibiting a high degree of variation. The characters viz., plant height, single plant yield, number of productive tillers per plant, the total number of tillers per plant, and filled grains per panicle showed high heritability coupled with high genetic advance as percent of mean which shows that these traits have additive gene action and are suitable for the selection of elite genotypes. Correlation analysis revealed that the number of productive tillers per plant showed the highest direct correlation followed by the number of tillers per plant, filled grains per panicle, spikelet fertility, plant height, and single plant yield. Thus these traits have a direct association with the yield of the plant. Path analysis revealed that there exists a high and direct positive effect for the number of filled grains per panicle, hundred-grain weight, and the number of productive tillers per plant on single plant yield. The traits that showed as highly correlated should be considered during selection for obtaining improved grain yield with phosphorus starvation tolerance. The direct effects reveals that an increase of these traits viz., the number of filled grains per panicle, hundred-grain weight, and the number of productive tillers per plant would directly increase the yield of the plant. ','Rice, Phosphorus starvation tolerance, Genetic variability, Correlation, Path analysis','Plant height had the highest PCV and GCV estimates, followed by single plant yield, number of productive tillers per plant, the total number of tillers per plant, and filled grains per panicle, demonstrating the influence of the environment with a high degree of variation. High heritability coupled with high genetic advance is observed for plant height, succeeded by single plant yield, filled grains per panicle, the total number of tillers per plant, and the number of productive tillers per plant. The number of productive tillers per plant showed the highest direct correlation followed by the number of tillers per plant, filled grains per panicle, spikelet fertility, plant height, and single plant yield. The number of filled grains per panicle, hundred-grain weight, and the number of productive tillers all had a higher direct impact on yield. On analysis through the variability, correlation, and path studies it is revealed that the traits viz., the number of productive tillers per plant, the total number of tillers per plant, and the number of filled grains per panicle are the key traits considered in choosing elite genotypes to increase the single plant yield.','INTRODUCTION \r\nRice (Oryza sativa L.) is a versatile and staple food crop that serves as a chief food source for over half of the global population. It plays an important role in safeguarding food security for the rural population (Timmer et al., 2010). About 95 percent of global rice is produced and consumed in Asia. The current consumption rate of rice is 90 percent and the demand for rice is still increasing in Asia. It is projected that the demand for rice will rise by up to 650 million tonnes globally by 2050 (Chibuike et al., 2019). Rice is one of the most significant cereal crops on the globe, serving as the main source of energy and income for the majority of the World\'shuman population. The total amount of food grains produced in the country is estimated to be 316.06 million tonnes in the second advance estimates for 2021–2022, an increase of 5.32 million tonnes from the production of foodgrains in 2020–2021. The amount of rice required to be produced globally in 2021–2022, which is 11.49 million tonnes more than the 116.44 million tonnes of average production over the previous five years, is 127.93 million tonnes. Abiotic stresses, viz., water stress, including deficit or drought and excess water or flood, salinity, phosphorus deficiency in soils, and heat, cause extensive losses to agricultural production in rainfed areas worldwide (Haefele et al., 2014). The rainfed environments account for 40 percent of global rice production. These abiotic factors account for 50 percent of global yield losses (Arif et al., 2019). Nutrients are the major and essential source, required at all growth stages, and an understanding of the soil\'s ability to provide the necessary nutrients is crucial for profitable crop production. Insufficient soil phosphorus stress is one of the major limitations on plant growth which affects the yield of many crops, including rice (Zhang et al., 2014). Phosphorus deficiency is a major constraint in India, with approximately 60 percent of the rice-growing areas in South India suffering from this deficiency (Chitrammenal et al., 2018). The lack of phosphorus could cause the riceto mature a week or two later than the usual period (Fageria, 1980). The phosphorus-related developmental factors viz., accelerated root growth, enhanced flower development, improved seed germination, extended stem and stalk quality, improved harvest quality, uniform, and earlier harvest development, and higher resistance to plant diseases are considered of prior importance. Thus when phosphorus is depleted, cellular functions are remodeled, and phospholipids are converted into galactolipids and sulfolipids at a high rate. A red-light-induced activation of P uptake mediated by phytochrome-B13 and the availability of iron in acidic soil causes the primary root growth to stop, which affects the cell\'s proliferative potential at the meristem and root tip. Additionally, a decrease in tissue phosphorus content negatively impacts plant growth, which results in plant death. It is essential to screen genotypes under P-starved conditions, to perceive the importance of traits and their genetic basis, and the nature of heredity, to produce plants that are tolerant of low soil phosphorus. Rice requires phosphorus to survive and thrive and is highly prone to phosphorus starvation. Thus enhancing crop phosphorus efficiency through the introgression of the OsPSTOL 1 gene from the donor Samba Mashuri to CR1009 Sub 1 would significantly contribute to the sustainability of agroecosystems (Richardson et al., 2011). With this information, the present study was carried out to analyze the major yield contributing traits.\r\nMATERIALS AND METHODS\r\nThe research work was carried out at the Department of Plant Breeding and Genetics, Agricultural College and Research Institute, Madurai during the Rabi season of 2021–2022. The experimental materials include 12 backcross populations(C2-3-1, C2-3-2, C2-3-3, C2-4-1, C2-4-2, C28-7-1, C28-7-2, C28-7-3, C28-7-4, C28-1, C28-2 and C28-3) of BC3F2, generated from a cross between CR 1009 Sub 1 and Samba Mashuri Pup 1. CR 1009 sub 1, a short bold variety used as the recipient parent, and Samba Mashuri Pup 1 a fine grain variety as the donor parent, having the phosphorus starvation tolerant gene (PSTOL 1). Plants were raised in the field in four rows covering 3 meters in length with a spacing of 20 cm × 15 cm and recommended crop agronomic practices were followed to maintain a healthy stand. Ten plants agronomically superior and similar to the recipient parent from each population were selected and various biometrical observations viz., days to 50% flowering, days to maturity, plant height, panicle length, the total number of tillers, productive tillers, spikelet fertility, hundred-grain weight, and single plant yield were recorded. The genetic variability analysis was carried out using a Microsoft Excel spreadsheet by Johanson et al. (1955). The association studies were analyzed using TNAUSTAT statistical package as given by Manivannan (2014).\r\nFormulae and Equations \r\n1. Phenotypic and genotypic coefficients of variation were calculated as put forward by Burton (1952).\r\nThe P.C.V. and G.C.V. are categorized as suggested by (Sivasubramanian and Madhavanenon, 1973).\r\n2. Heritability. Thee stimation of heritability helps the breeder in selection of elite genotypes from diverse populations. It is the ratio of the genotypic variance to the total or phenotypic variance. Heritability is calculated in the Broad sense [h2(BS)] was calculated as recommended by Lush (1940).\r\nh2(B.S) = √σ2g/√(σ2p )×100\r\n3. Genetic advance as percent of mean. Genetic advance as percent of mean can be obtained by using the formula derived by Johnson et al (1955).\r\nGA as a percent of mean= (Genetic advance)/Grandmean×100\r\nThe range of genetic advance as percent of mean is classified as given by Johnson et al. (1955)\r\nPath coefficient analysis. The method of path coefficient analysis as suggested by Dewey and Lu was used to assess the relative influence of yield components on yield both directly (direct effects) and indirectly (indirect effects) (1959). Based on the scale shown below, the direct and indirect effects derived from path analysis were categorized (Lenka and Misra 1973).\r\nRESULTS AND DISCUSSION \r\nSegregating generations are ideal for imposing selection because they exhibit significant segregation and recombination (Thirugnanakumar et al., 2011). To accomplish efficient breeding programs, it is critical to determine the type and level of phenotypic and genotypic variation present in any crop (Sundaram et al., 2019). The genetic variability components of variation were analyzed as discussed by Johannsen (1909). Heritability and genetic advance are taken into consideration as additional criteria for choosing superior genotypes in addition to genetic variability. The fundamental criteria for selection are yield variability and its related properties (Bhargava et al., 2021). \r\nEstimates of PCV and GCV. The estimates of PCV, GCV, heritability, and genetic advance as percent of means are listed in Table 1. High estimates of PCV and GCV were observed for plant height followed by single plant yield, number of productive tillers, the total number of tillers, and filled grains per panicle, indicating the influence of environment with a high degree of variation are described in Fig. 1. Similar results were reported by Pavithra et al. (2022); Lilly et al. (2018); Nirubana et al. (2019); Bharath et al. (2018); Bhargava et al. (2021); Yaseen et al. (2020); Dhavaleshvar et al. (2019), respectively. Moderate PCV and GCV were observed for hundred-grain weight by Lingaiah et al. (2018). The other characters showed low PCV and GCV which exhibits a significant amount of genotype-environment interaction for all variables, as shown by the PCV values being bigger than the GCV values (Saha et al. (2019); Ahmed et al. (2021); Kumari et al. (2022).\r\nHeritability and genetic advance as percent of mean. According to Johnson et al. (1955), estimations of PCV and GCV alone are insufficient for selecting component qualities in improving yield. Thus, a combination of heritability and genetic gain estimates must be used for more trustworthy results. Burton proposed that \"genetic variation paired with heritability estimates would provide a better notion of selection effectiveness.\" The parameters to consider for effective gain under selection and selecting superior varieties include heritability estimates and genetic progress (Ali et al., 2002). Among the various characteristics tillering ability is one of the significant yield-determining features of rice. The results revealed that all the traits showed higher heritability, excluding spikelet fertility and hundred-grain weight. High heritability coupled with high genetic advance is observed for plant height, succeeded by single plant yield, filled grains per panicle, the total number of tillers, and the number of productive tillers, indicating the effective selection of these genotypes. Nirubana et al. (2019): Singh et al. (2021); Manivelan et al. (2022) showed comparable results for the traits viz., plant height, total tiller count, and the number of productive tillers. Similar outcomes with single plant yield were reported by Elayaraj et al. (2022). Pavithra et al. (2022) showed similar results for the trait, filled grains per panicle, and the number of productive tillers per plant. The heritability and genetic advance estimates are described in Fig. 2.\r\nEstimates of correlation coefficients. Correlation analysis serves as an example of the existence and degree of interdependence among the component factors. It also identifies the attributes that can be chosen to genetically increase grain yield. Correlation analysis among the traits studied is presented in Table 2. The number of productive tillers per plant showed the highest direct correlation followed by the number of tillers per plant, filled grains per panicle, spikelet fertility, and plant height on single plant yield. The total number of tillers per plant had a significant and positive correlation with plant height. The spikelet fertility showed a strong and positive association existed between plant height, panicle length, the total number of tillers per plant, the number of productive tillers per plant, and filled grains per panicle. The number of filled grains per panicle was significantly and strongly correlated with plant height, panicle length, the total number of tillers per plant, and the number ofproductive tillers per plant. Oladosu et al. (2018): Kumari et al. (2019) reported similar results for the number of tillers per plant having a positive and significant association. Abhilash et al. (2018); Bhargava et al. (2021); Ahmed et al., (2021) results were in concordance with the number of productive tillers per plant. \r\nSimilar results for panicle length were reported by Panigrah et al. (2018): Bhargava et al. (2021); Bhadru et al. (2012). Ahmed et al. (2021) showed similar results for the number of filled grains per panicle It was found that raising the proportion of productive and total tillers per plant was crucial for enhancing the capacity to produce more rice Plant height, panicle length, the total number of tillers per plant, productive tillers per plant, and filled grains per plant all demonstrated a significant and positive association with single plant yield. \r\nEstimates of Path analysis for the yield traits. The direct and indirect effects of the traits are listed in Table 3. Grain yield was regarded as the dependent variable for path coefficient analysis, while the other features were regarded as independent variables. Path analysis is used to assess whether the independent variables have a false correlation. Path analysis showed that multi-collinearity-related inflation is smaller since the majority of values are less than unity (Gravois and Helms 1992).\r\nDirect effect. The number of filled grains per panicle, hundred-grain weight, and the number of productive tillers per plant all had a higher direct impact on single plant yield. Hossain et al. (2020); Naik et al. (2021); Elayaraj et al. (2022); Upadhyay et al., (2022) reported similar results. Direct selection of these traits could significantly increase the single plant yield. Plant height shows a high and moderate direct effect estimated to be a vital trait for a single plant\'s yield. A high and negative direct effect on single plant yield is observed for spikelet fertility. The adverse direct effects revealed that selecting these traits would not boost rice productivity, unlike the high direct positive effects.\r\nIndirect effect. The number of tillers per plant, and spikelet fertilityhad a significant indirect impact on single plant yield through the number of productive tillers andfilled grains per panicle. The height of the plant had a favorable indirect effect on plant yield through the number of productive tillers per plant. This was by Nandan et al. (2010).\r\n','Anusha R., N. Aananthi, C. Vanniarajan, R. Renuka, P. Kannan and V. Nirubana (2022). Variability and Association Studies for Yield Components in OsPSTOL 1 gene Introgressed Backcross Inbred Lines (BILs) of Rice. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 14(3): 557-563.'),(5316,'136','Organic Farming in Vegetables- The Indian Scenario','Ummyiah H. Masoodi, Khansa Bashir and Ajaz A. Malik','94 Organic Farming in Vegetables- The Indian Scenario Ummyiah H. Masoodi.pdf','',1,'A quite languid, but deliberate shift from the traditional farming methods to the vogue, newly tailored organic agriculture is being undertaken from the past few years, though it has not been there for so long. New methodologies and techniques are being worked out, put to test and shared by the organic farmers since 1950\'s. For safeguarding the environment and achieving a sustainable, future driven agricultural production, reliable alternatives to chemical intensive traditional agricultural practices need to be devised. The area under organic farming is currently 73.2 million ha with the participation of around 187 countries. Through the various efforts and schemes initiated by the government for strengthening this sector, the area under organic farming has expanded swiftly from 0.58 thousand ha in 2003-04 to 26.6 thousand ha in 2020-21. Organic agriculture is picking up quite a pace in India with 43.8% contribution to the total number of organic farmers in the world, but the area is still quite less i.e., 4.7%. An urgent need to increase the area, production and productivity is being felt, which can only be accomplished through enhanced technological intervention. One such system was adopted in Umiam, Meghalaya and Thiruvananthapuram, Kerela generating a net return of 171,867/ha and 433,490/ha respectively via integrated organic farming system. Salubrious and flourishing environment and soil, plant, animal and human health is generally regarded as the key concern of organic farming. It aims towards the provision of adequate and nourishing food supply with minimum deleterious effects on the environment. The major constraints in organic farming in India would be lack of awareness, marketing issues, shortage of biomass, inadequate supporting infrastructure, high input costs, marketing problems of organic inputs and low yields. As of now, the organic farming techniques are more precisely suited to the small and marginal farmers in order to minimize the risk and maintain sustainable food security. For the establishment of organic farming practices as a regular exercise in the food production industry, round the clock standardized efforts by various stakeholders such as research institutions, new age farmers, developmental organisations, input dealers and processors, etc. are required.','Vegetable farming, Organic, India, Biological Control, Organic export','Sustainability in agricultural production and non-disruption of the ecological balance are the primary objectives of organic farming. It aims to mitigate the negative impacts incurred to the human health and environment by the continuous use of chemicals for crop production. For achieving these goals, certain rules and principles are to be followed by the organic growers as well as consumers with no scope of any flexibility or lenience. Practicing organic farming as the sole method of cultivation is not really possible in a heavily populated country like India where the demand for vegetables is ever increasing and the organic resources are scarce. To describe the situation, it would be fair to quote the Nobel Laureate Dr. Norman Borlaug (2002) who had stated, “Switching on food production to organic would lower crop yields. There are 6.6 billion people on the planet today. Which 2 billion would volunteer to die?” This statement implies that the output generated by organic farming is not enough to sustain the whole population and the traditional farming methods involving the use of high yielding varieties and chemical fertilisers and pesticides cannot be ignored. In view of the problems associated, certain fertile areas with optimum soil flora and fauna can be dedicated towards organic vegetable production in order to obtain high quality vegetables for export purpose. Hence currently the modus operandi of organic agriculture in India involves partial adoption of organic methods in case of vegetables highly suited for export. In context to Indian agriculture, it is not practically feasible to eliminate the use of chemical fertilisers and pesticides once for all. Rather their use can be minimised or limited. Various experiments and scientific findings have concluded that the combined use of organic and inorganic sources has a beneficial effect on the crop growth and yield. It enhances the productivity and ultimately brings more profit to the grower. As stated above, it is foolish to consider the nationwide adoption of organic farming due to a number of constraints. These include low productivity, elevated cost of cultivation, lack of awareness among farmers and non availability of sufficient quantity of good quality organic inputs. From a practical perspective, adoption of integrated green revolution farming, a modified form of organic farming is possible to a large extent in India. In this system, the core principles governing green revolution such as development of high yielding varieties, heavy irrigation, increased use of external inputs, mechanisation, etc. are kept intact, however conscious efforts are made to multiply their efficiency and minimize the risk to environmental safety and human and plant health. Various integrated systems each offering solution to a different problem have been developed over the years by combining organic techniques with high input technology. The best examples of such amalgamation are Integrated Disease Management (IDM), Integrated Pest Management (IPM), etc., the proper use of which reduces the dependence on chemicals and invites sustainability.','INTRODUCTION\r\nThe traditional methods being adopted for agricultural production requiring heavy doses of chemical fertilisers and pesticides are surrounded by several drawbacks including declining agricultural growth rate, factor productivity, farm income, shrinkage in net cultivable area, depleting ground water table, static or decline in food production as well as increasing malnutrition, environmental pollution, cost of production and unemployment. Various types of cancers and other disorders in humans as well as animals are being reported due to the consumption of pesticide and fertiliser-laden food. During the pre-green revolution period (upto 1960’s), the total agricultural production and productivity was not in a position to cater to the needs of the ever-growing population and hence the food prices started showing heavy inflation rates. This demand became the major driving force for the development and large-scale commercialisation of new high yielding varieties of various crops which were highly fertiliser and water intensive. The results of this revolution were euphoric, with the total food grain production being enhanced from a meagre 50.83 million tonnes in 1950-51 to 303.34 million tonnes in 2020-21 (DES, 2021) through the cultivation of HYVs as well as introduction of other green revolution technologies (Ravisankar et al., 2021) The gross irrigated area has also amplified from 22.56 million ha in 1950-51 to 94.46 million ha in 2014-15. Chemical fertilizers playing a primary role in this movement have also witnessed a sharp rise in usage from 0.07 million tonnes in 1950-51 to 29.37 million tonnes in 2018-19 (DES, 2020). All these factors combined have proved to be a total game changer for India with its status being changed from a food imported to food exporter in terms of various major commodities. But as wise men say, “Everything comes with a price”, this statement holds true for green revolution in India as well. Our chemical fertiliser and pesticide consumption now stands at an all time high of 137.9 kg/ha and 0.6kg a.i /ha (DES, 2021) which is expected to cause nothing but devastation for human, plant and environment health. Bringing down the consumption of these chemicals appears to be the need of the hour for striking a balance between meeting the food demands and maintaining the health of mother earth and its various components. Recent studies have established that the combined use of chemical fertilizers along with organic manures is beneficial in improving the overall efficacy of the latter by bringing about significant improvement in the physical, chemical and biological properties of the soil (Panwar et al, 2021). By the year 2025, a total nutrient potential of 32.41 million tonnes is being expected to be contributed by a multitude of organic resources. In addition to this, other statistics point towards the expected demand of 400 million tonnes of food by 2050 in order to satiate the hunger of the projected population of 1.7 billion by that year. Considering these facts and figures, the expansion of organic agriculture in all parts of the country is not a very smart and practical idea, keeping in view the problems arising in the handling of bulky organic manures and their low nutrient content. It has been estimated that around 15 million tonnes of nutrients can be safely and viably provided through organic sources. Hence it is better to go for niche area and crop specific approach for the popularisation of organic farming, making use of integrated crop production models combining the use of organic and inorganic resources for sustainable production and productivity, taking optimum care to not incur any sort of damage to the environment. \r\nThe problems of food and nutritional security can be combated though the cultivation and inclusion of vegetables in our diet. Acting as fairly rich sources of protective vitamins, minerals, fibre and considerable number of proteins, the demand for these commodities is elevating every now and then in the domestic as well as export market. India produced 191769 thousand MT of vegetables during 2019-20 as against only 15 million tonnes prior to independence. It is a well-known fact that India is the second largest producer of vegetables in the world, closely following China. However, from the productivity point of view, India still lags behind. Moreover, the per capita availability is only 210g per head per day, though the recommended consumption is quite high, i.e., 285g per head per day. Owing to the ever-increasing population pressure and the shrinkage of agricultural land, vertical expansion appears to be the only potent solution to tackle the problems of inadequate food supply. We can also aim at increasing the productivity per unit area and time through the exploitation of the available resources and technology that still remain unexplored. We need to adopt such practices which will enable the production of more nutritionally rich vegetables from less land, less water, less chemicals and no detrimental effects on the soil and environment health. Through organic vegetable production, sustainability can be achieved in terms of maintaining the various beneficial properties of the soil as well as induction of resistance to various biotic and abiotic stresses. An increase in profit to the tune of 10 to 50%can be expected from the sale of organic products over the conventional ones. Advanced countries such as USA, Japan, EU and Australia are currently having largest market for these types of commodities and the growth rate of this industry is quite high. India too is slowly picking up pace and beautifully inculcating the art of organic vegetable production in its agricultural setup.\r\nBasic concept of organic farming\r\n1. It focuses on enriching the biological fertility of the soil so that plants can easily acquire the essential nutrients they require and still do not over exploit it and rip off soil of its basic essential components.\r\n2. Control of pests, diseases and weeds is primarily attained through the establishment of a careful ecological balance within the system and by the judicious use of bio pesticides. Certain cultural practices such as mixed cropping, crop rotation, etc., also provide for the effective management of several crop-damaging entities.\r\n3. Organic farmers believe in minimum wastage and try to re-use and recycle all the farm wastes and by-products in the form of organic manures and other resources. However, the export of products from the farm results in a rapid loss of essential nutrients.\r\n4. In a situation where conservation of energy and resources is deemed as important, any community or country would leave no stone unturned to recycle and replenish all urban and industrial wastes back to agriculture. Thus, the system would require only few inputs of new resources in order to “top up” soil fertility.\r\nDefinitions of Organic Farming. Various scientists and organisations have attempted to describe and explain the meaning and core values associated with organic farming at their own levels, but all of them ultimately agree to assert one basic fact, i.e., organic farming is a system that believes in management of the ecosystem itself rather than the incorporation of external agricultural inputs. It aims to minimise the dependence on chemically derived fertilisers and pesticides, veterinary drugs, genetically modified seeds and breeds, preservatives, additives and irradiation in order to mitigate and minimize the devastation of the ecosystem and disturbance of natural ecological balance.\r\nAccording to the definition of FAO/WHO Codex Alimentarius commission (1999), “Organic agriculture is a holistic production management system which promotes and enhances agro-ecosystem health, including biodiversity, biological cycles and soil biological activity. It emphasises the use of management practices in preference to the use of off-farm inputs, taking into account that regional conditions require locally adapted systems. This is accomplished by using, where possible, agronomic, biological and mechanical methods, as opposed to using synthetic materials, to fulfil any specific function within the system”. \r\nNeed for organic farming of vegetables in India\r\n• Most of the vegetable crops are eaten raw as salad, or used in boiled or cooked form; hence, any contamination or presence of any sort of chemical residue may invite various types of diseases and health concerns.\r\n• Mostly, poor, small and marginal farmers are engaged in vegetable cultivation in India.\r\n• The productivity potential and fertility status of soil has declined over years due to the indiscriminate use of chemical fertilisers\r\n• There are not many scientific breakthroughs in recuperating the quality and production of vegetable crops. \r\n• Increasing rates of environmental pollution and damage to the ecosystem.\r\n• The prices of various inputs required in traditional chemical intensive farming practices, such as fertilisers, pesticides, irrigation facilities are skyrocketing day by day. Even though government has announced massive subsidies on these commodities, still the farmers find it very difficult to keep up with the demand. We can easily avoid such issues through the adoption of organic farming which cuts down the usage of such inputs (Singh et al., 2014).\r\nOrganic farming in India. In India, fertilisers are being used only on 30 percent of the cultivable area where optimum irrigation facilities are available, while a large chunk, i.e.,70 percent of the arable land is mainly rain-fed in nature and only a meagre quantity of chemical fertilisers is being used here. The nutritional requirement of crops in these areas is mainly being fulfilled through the use of locally available organic manures, either produced in situ or procured from the nearby farms. The inhabitants of the north-eastern regions of our country are deeply connected with nature and hardly rely on the use of chemical inputs. As a consequence, this area provides immense scope for development of organic farming systems. Around 18 million hectares of chemical devoid land is available in the NE regions which can successfully be employed for organic production. India has tremendous potential to emerge as a global leader in the production and supply of organic products since vast areas here are under organic cultivation. In the year 2001, a report generated by the Task Force on Organic Farming recruited by the Government of India also stated that the diverse regions of the country where chemical inputs are used to the minimum extent possible, but face the problem of low productivity could successfully be utilised for the commercialisation of organic agriculture. Organic agriculture will prosper in India and will contribute in feeding 1.5 billion people by 2030. According to statistics by Assocham and TechSci, the organic farming market in India will reach around $1.36 billion by 2020 with a growth rate of 25-30% per year.\r\nIn India, mostly three kinds of farmers are associated with organic production:\r\n• Farmers who mainly employ their indigenous knowledge and expertise developed over the past thousands of years. They largely cultivate crops for their own consumption and have little surplus for meeting the market demand. \r\n• Farmers with small to medium sized land holdings constitute the second category. These can be classified into two groups: those functioning to renew and revitalize the Vedic practices, together with Ayurvedic tradition of health system with scientific elucidation; and others who follow modern organic agriculture systems, such as Steiner’s biodynamic agriculture or Fukuoka’s “nature farming”, for example. They typically have market surplus and sometimes export their goods. \r\n• Private companies that have realised the value of organic goods and provided for the large-scale conversions to organic systems are the third major group. They have closely studied the patterns of market demand, especially in the northern areas and are in the process of enhancing the economic value of crops. Their key concern is to promote the export of organic commodities.\r\nIndia essentially produces primary organic products, and not much attention is being paid towards processed products. Coffee, tea, spices, fruits, vegetables and cereals as well as honey and cotton are the most important commodities being cultivated in the diverse agro-climatic zones of the country. As of now, there is no concept of organic animal husbandry, poultry, and fisheries. The market for organic foodstuff is still behindhand in India. Consumers are also not much aware of the benefits and usage of such kinds of products. As far as the domestic market is concerned, organic food is generally sold directly via the farmers or by means of specialised shops and restaurants serving organic items. India has mainly emerged as an exporter and by far has not imported organic products. The focal market for exported products is the European Union and lately, the trend of organic food is rising in the USA. Recently India has applied to be included as a member of the “EU-Third-Country-List”. It has been estimated that approximately 700 MT of agricultural wastes are generated in the country every year, but a large fraction of it is discarded and not put to judicious use. This implies a theoretical availability of 5tonnes of organic manure/hectare of arable land/year, which is equivalent to about 100 kg NPK/ha/year (Tondon, 1997). But practically, only a minimal portion of this huge quantity is available for actual field application. A considerable number of substitutes for chemical fertilisers have been developed over the recent years for optimised nutrient supply to the crops. These include organic sources like vermicompost, bio fertilizers, green manures etc. Advanced technologies have been introduced that aim towards the bulk production of nutrient-rich compost and manures, thereby bridging the gap between nutrient demand and supply. With advancement in research methodologies, crop specific manures and organic fertilisers are being prepared for various fruits, vegetables, oilseeds, pulses, etc.\r\nOrganic Farming in India on specific situation. Bearing in mind the facts mentioned above, one needs to be very careful and consider the use of organic sources alone only in cases where they are most economical. At the same time, it must be ensured that the quality of the produce is being maintained from health point of view. In case of the Indian society, organic farming can be commercially exploited under the following conditions where the maintenance of quality is to be given priority over quantity:\r\n • Fruits and vegetable crops where use of elevated doses of chemical fertilizers (especially N causing higher NO content) may result in imbalanced nutrition of crops.\r\n• Plantation crops like tea, coffee, cashew nut etc where the nutrient loss is minimum and salvaging of these through leaf abscission is high. \r\n• High export potential bearing horticultural crops having considerable demand in international markets like spices.\r\n• Premium quality local varieties of different crops having significant export potentials. \r\n• Neem, dried nuts, oilseeds, pulses, cotton, basmati rice etc possessing export potentials. \r\n• Soils having high fixation capacity of various nutrients such as the calcareous, acidic & alkali soils.\r\nObjectives of Organic Farming in Vegetable crops\r\n1. To produce adequate quantity of highly nutritious food.\r\n2. To promote the diverse biological cycles within farming arrangements by encouraging the utilisation of microorganisms, soil flora & fauna, plants and animals.\r\n3. To perpetuate and enhance the long-term fertility and vitality of soil and allow the soil biodiversity to flourish.\r\n4. To stress over the usage of renewable resources in locally organized production systems.\r\n5. To operate within a closed system with respect to organic matter and nutrient elements.\r\n6. To minimise to the maximum extent possible, all sorts of pollution and environmental damage that might occur from the use of traditional agricultural techniques and methodologies.\r\nTechnology packages for Organic Vegetables\r\n1. Timely preparation of soil to a fine tilth with 2-3 ploughings to remove all debris, stubbles, stones etc and to avoid infestation of ants and termites. However, minimum tillage is considered as an important component of organic farming. \r\n2. Use of organic manures as basal dose @ 25-38 t/ha via FYM, poultry manures, fish manures, sheep composts etc. Organic cakes prepared from neem, groundnut and pongamia are considered extremely beneficial for enhancing the soil properties.\r\n3. Raising of green manure crops like sesbania or dhanicha and their timely ploughing back into the soil, besides using biomass of other plant species. \r\n4. Use of crop residues is a vital practice in organic vegetable production, which boosts the soil organic matter content, conserves soil fertility levels, and ultimately enhances the crop yield. Studies conducted by Upadhayay and Sharma (2000) reported that application of five groups of crop residues like bhang (Cannabis sativus) leaves, parthenium weeds, gulmohar and peepal leaves to the soil @ 15t/ha each before planting cowpea crop in a cowpea-potato-cucumber rotation and subsequently adding the crop residues of cowpea, potato (haulms) and cucumber in succession after harvest of each crop and before sowing of succeeding crop resulted a positive effect on the yield of crops and enriched the soil with organic matter. \r\n5. Make sure to incorporate leguminous crops like beans, peas, cowpea etc in the crop rotation that in addition to elevating the soil fertility by fixing the atmospheric nitrogen also increase the yield up 13 to 30-35%. Inoculation of the legume crops with specific rhizobial strains can further perk up their N fixing ability. \r\n6. Choice of vegetable varieties should be based on climate and market preference; adopting optimum spacing and timely planting, raising plants/seedlings with enough organic manures and bio-fertilizers and using only vigorous seedlings for better establishment, growth and yield. \r\n7. Application of bio-fertilizer is of great significance in organic farming as they play a nutritional, stimulatory and the therapeutic role in improving growth, yield and quality of vegetable crops. Inoculations of vegetable crops with different bio-fertilizers have displayed a heartening response both in terms of increasing yield, quality and soil fertility. The field response of Rhizobium is encouraging as reported by a number of research workers. Azotobacter and Azospirillum depicted a significant influence on vegetable crops, resulting in nitrogen economy of 25-50% and increase in yield from 1-42%. Similarly, phosphorus solubilizers can also save in general 40% phosphorus fertilizers and can enhance the crop yields from 4.7-51%.\r\n8. Use of locally available mulching materials or polythene sheets to reduce moisture loss and minimize weed growth. \r\n9. Use disease resistant varieties that suit the eco-system, keep the weed growth in check and remove all parts attacked by pests and diseases. Also raise trap plants to attract insects and follow crop rotation. \r\n10. Use bio-pesticides and bio-control methods for control of various pests and diseases. Natural products like garlic extract potentially act as broad-spectrum pesticides. Neem, Sabadilla and Pyrethrum derivatives show similar properties. Besides this, bio-fertilizers like Azotobacter, Azospirillum, PSM, and phosphorus mobilizers have antifungal activities without any residual or toxic effect, hence the quality of vegetables grown is not compromised. Crop inoculated with mycorrhizal fungi exhibits improved resistance to Rhizoctonia solani and Fusarium oxysporum. Damping off of tomato caused by Phythium is minimised by induction of mycrorrhiza formation. Mycorrhized tomato plants exhibit higher resistance to nematode infection.\r\nEffective Bio-agents \r\nPredators\r\n• Ladybird beetles on aphids and mealy bugs\r\n• Chrysoperla on aphids and other soft bodied insects\r\n• Carabids and staphylinid beetles on vast range of insect hosts\r\nParasitoids\r\n• Trichogramma sp. on Lepidopteran pests \r\n• Apanteles sp. on Lepidopteran larvae \r\n• Trichospilus pupivora on pupa of a caterpillar pest \r\nPathogens\r\n• Bacteria: Bacillus thuringiensis (Bt) against DBM \r\n• Fungi: Beauveria bassiana on various crop pests \r\nMetarhizium anisopliae, Nomouraea rileyi on Helicoverpa armigera\r\nViruses \r\n• NPV (Nuclear Polyhedrosis virus) \r\n• NPV of Helicoverpa armigera\r\n• NPV of Spodoptera litura\r\nNematodes \r\n• Steinernema glaseri on soil insects\r\nIndian domestic market and export\r\nAs contrary to the popular belief that organic food consumption is just a trend being followed in the developed countries, the organic food market is slowly but steadily picking up pace in India as well. Most people are of the opinion that India is only interested in the export of organic products and its consumption is next to none. However, the actual facts and figures suggest otherwise. Although it is well established that about 50% of the organic food prepared in India is directed towards export, but the domestic intake cannot be neglected. People nowadays prefer organic food items in order to minimize health scare to children, with around 66% of the parents trying to replace traditional food with comparatively healthy organic food. Even though organic foods are priced slightly higher, i.e., around 25% more than the non organic ones, a number of parents are happily agreeing for their purchase due to the anticipated positive effects these have on the health and general well being. The popping up of new organic stores every now and then is an enough proof of the rising growth of the organic food market in the country. The first organic food store in India was established in Mumbai in 1997 and now, almost every large city has its own organic food stores and restaurants. The status of India as a leading organic food exporter is also elevating day by day with a greater number of farmers being engaged in organic farming activities. Organic spices, organic herbs, organic basmati rice, etc. are readily exported by India to countries such as USA and UK, which is strengthening this industry to the maximum extent possible. In a developing country like India where the average per capita income is a mere 800 USD, the higher premium offered by the sale of organic products is a huge sigh of relief and an indicator for future prosperity. Organic agriculture offers trade opportunities for farmers in the developing and developed countries. (Ummyiah et al., 2017a). In addition, the Indian government is truly actively engaged in the promotion of the organic food industry by offering great deal of support and facilitating smooth marketing of products. Since the domestic market is not in a position to absorb all the organic stuff produced, the sale abroad remains a prime concern for both farmers as well as the government agencies (Ummyiah et al., 2017b).\r\nIssues and strategies of organic vegetable farming in India\r\nThe size of the land holdings under organic cultivation and availability of non-chemical inputs such as manures and bio-pesticides, coupled with scientifically backed packages of practices are the key factors governing the hereinafter success of organic vegetable cultivation in India. The methods of organic food production should be clearly distinguishable from the traditional approaches. The below mentioned problems and their potent solutions should be borne in mind in order to develop organic vegetable cultivation into a sprightly and flexible system, always ready to cater to the changing consumer demands both at domestic as well as international levels.\r\n1. There needs to be on system-based research for vegetable organic farming. It must be integrated one and must not be looked at in isolation. \r\n2. The goal of research should be to develop techniques and methods, which not only enhance food production, but also generate a greater number of jobs and elevate the income of people involved. There must therefore be a triple aim of more food, more jobs and more income.\r\n3. The research for organic farming should be focused on developing farmer friendly technologies which may attract the vegetable growers to adopt them, keeping in view the small sizes of land holdings and few resources available to the poor and marginal farmers.\r\n4. Long-term evaluation of different organic sources should be carried out in order to realise their true potential.\r\n5. For any given cropping system, the most appropriate and beneficial cover crops and smother crops should be identified.\r\n6. All sorts of depletion in ground water quality should be very well determined with special reference to heavy metal toxicity and nitrate pollution.\r\n7. The kind of crops which are able to improve the physical properties of soil in a given agro-climatic zone should be specified.\r\n8. Evaluation of soil conservation practices for disease management, change in the habitat for beneficial insects and suitability of trap crops in organic culture and identification of nematode repellent cover crops especially from various vegetable crops should be given due prominence.\r\n9. Development of techniques for modifying fertilizer recommendations for new crop rotations using different cover crops and foolproof technology for transformation of traditionally used chemicals inputs farm into a successful organic farm. \r\n10. Developing suitable varieties or hybrids for organic cultivation.\r\n11. Appropriate package of technologies are to be developed for organically grown vegetables.\r\n 12. Large scale multiplication of bio-fertilizers, vermicompost, bio-control agents and their distribution to the farmers at reasonable rates.\r\n13. There should be proper research efforts for production and commercialization of bio-pesticides and extension services to educate the farmers to use them. \r\n14. Organic foods are proven to be superior in terms of health and safety, but there is no scientific evidence to back their superiority in terms of taste and nutrition, as most of the studies are often indecisive and full of loopholes. Therefore, stringent evaluation of quality parameters and packaging of organic foods should be carried out using well framed strategies.\r\n15. Efforts should be made to select suitable cropping systems or more precisely, farming systems specific to those agro climatic zones having higher productivity under Organic Farming. The Government should provide ample infrastructure facilities to make the Organic Farming, a profitable venture.\r\n16. There is need for marketing research for organically produce for export potential. There should be proper planning for marketing of organically grown fruits, vegetables and food grains that should help farmers to get a better price for their produce. This, in turn, should motivate them to invest more in Organic Farming. \r\n17. Organic vegetable growers should be rewarded with alluring incentives.\r\n18. Extension scientists must frame well-knit strategies to generate interest in small and marginal farmers to take up organic farming technologies for cultivating vegetable crops.\r\nWhy total adoption of organic Farming of vegetable crops is not feasible/ viable in India? \r\nThough Organic Farming is one of the best approaches to achieve sustainability in the crop production, its adoption on a full-fledged scale under Indian conditions remains a question due to the following major reasons:\r\n1. Organic farming is highly knowledge intensive and requires careful evaluation and deep understanding of the crop and soil dynamics. One has to keep pace with the laws of nature to augment the biological productivity of the soil. \r\n2. There is no well-thought-out extension machinery to dissipate the proven technologies and in many cases, the basic information itself is not available. \r\n3. Reduction of yield in the initial few years of conversion from pure chemical farming to organic farming disturbs the farmers and they are not in a position to take such a big risk.\r\n4. Organic inputs may be difficult to generate on the farm. \r\n5. The organic produce may not find an early market as most of the vegetables are perishable in nature, leading to spoilage and loss to the concerned grower.\r\n6. Shifting to pure organic farming is a very time consuming and laborious task. \r\n7. Nowadays, a smaller number of people are involved in cattle rearing, hence scarcity of FYM is on the rise.\r\n 8. Nutrient content of organic sources is generally quite low. Varied nutrient content is present in organic materials, so it becomes difficult for farmers to calculate the actual number of organic substrates to be added to the soil.\r\n9. Collection and processing of organic wastes is a difficult and time-consuming task.\r\n10. Cattle dung, urine and farm wastes are to be handled manually, which many people do not prefer doing.\r\n11. The consumer needs protection and safety assurance, so the Certification and Inspection programmes have to be conducted on a national level.\r\n12. Export of organic produce requires adherence to pre-specified organic standards, which should be conformed to International Market demand as well. \r\n13. There is a dearth of optimum research & development backup as well as training concerning Organic Farming in India. \r\n14. There is less provision of availability, transportation, and application of biological materials to meet the nutrient demand of the crops. \r\n15. Biological pest control is very knowledge intensive and not everyone has the required skill to go for it.\r\n16. Since the farmers are more interested in cultivating crops of commercial significance, green manuring crops are becoming less common as they do not fit in the commercial crop sequences.\r\n17. Green leaf manuring also has become limited due to the over exploitation of shrubs and trees.\r\n 18. Package of practices revolving around organic farming are not clearly understood and sometimes do not go along the lines of cost-benefit ratio for various crops.\r\n19. Farmers are usually hesitant to adopt organic farming in case no monetary assistance is provided by the government or other developmental agencies because of a fair possibility of yield losses during the early years of adoption.\r\nSuggestions for promotion of Organic Farming in India\r\nThe following suggestions if well understood and applied to the maximum extent possible can help the organic cultivation industry in India to flourish and prosper (Anonymous, 1998):\r\n1. Establishment of centres of excellence and nationwide network for optimising research on Organic Farming.\r\n2. Documentation and written records of all the available indigenous technological knowledge (ITK) and other technologies developed by various public sector research centres/NGO/individuals on the various aspects of Organic Farming in India.\r\n3. Introduction of core courses on the concepts and methods used in Organic Farming in the curriculum of under-graduate and post-graduate degree programmes at different SAUs and other Agricultural Institutes.\r\n4. Standardization of mechanisms or methods for judging the suitability of Organic Farming practices.\r\n5. Formulation of appropriate package of practices of productions of different crops under Organic Farming Systems.\r\n6. Expert teams, comprising of renowned agricultural as well as social scientists and progressive farmers may be constituted for visiting farms of successful farmers associated with organic farming practices.\r\n7. Dissemination of beneficial knowledge and information on Organic Farming through Krishi Vigyan Kendras (KVKs), field demonstrations, TV programmes and other suitable mass media etc.\r\nScope of Organic farming in India:\r\n• Organic food is in high demand with rising domestic market.\r\n• Organic farming has emerged as an alternative system of farming that may not only address quality and sustainability concerns, but also ensures a debt-free future.\r\n• Organic farming is appropriate for small farmers in developing countries like India. \r\n• Organic agriculture helps to reduce poverty and ensures food security through a variety of factors like; Increasing yields in locations with low inputs, Biodiversity and natural resources conservation on the farm and in the surrounding environment; Increasing revenue and/or lowering costs; Creating food that is both safe and diverse; Having a long-term sustainability.\r\n','Ummyiah H. Masoodi, Khansa Bashir and Ajaz A. Malik (2022). Organic Farming in Vegetables- The Indian Scenario. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 14(3): 564-572.'),(5317,'','','','','',1,'','','','',''),(5318,'','','','','',1,'','','','',''),(5319,'','','','','',1,'','','','',''),(5320,'','','','','',1,'','','','',''),(5321,'','','','','',1,'','','','',''),(5322,'','','','','',1,'','','','',''),(5323,'136','Analysis of Genetic Divergence in some Elite Cultivars of Bread Wheat (Triticum aestivum L. em. Thell)','Shivani Chaudhary, Atul Gautam, Avanish Pandey, Tarkeshwar and S.C. Gaur','95 Analysis of Genetic Divergence in some Elite Cultivars of Bread Wheat (Triticum aestivum L. em. Thell) Shivani Chaudhary.pdf','',1,'Determination of genetic diversity is useful for plant breeding for the production of more efficient plant species under different conditions. Accordingly, twenty genotypes of the most common wheat (Triticum aestivum L.) cultivated in different regions of U.P. were selected, grown, and analyzed for genetic diversity. The experiment was conducted at the Agricultural Research Farm of B.R.D. P.G. College, Deoria (U.P.) in a randomized complete block design with three replications. The observations were taken for fourteen metric traits. Cluster analysis based on Mahalanobis’(1936), described by Rao (1952) and Tocher\'s method, categorized the cultivars into five groups. Cluster I had the highest number of genotypes having nine entries followed by cluster II with six entries, cluster III, cluster IV, and V representing one entry each. The intra-cluster distance varied from 0.00 to 25.60. The inter-cluster distance ranged from 32.81 to 109.26. Cluster III was responsible for the highest group means for the biological yield per plant (28.31 g) and grain yield per plant (16.30 g) whereas, it possessed the lowest cluster group mean for days to 50% flowering (74.00 days). Such differences in the genetic component of traits studied in this manuscript can be applied as a new source of variation in other breeding programs and crossing nurseries for wheat improvement. ','Genetic divergence, cluster analysis, Triticum aestivum, genetic diversity, Mahalanobis’ D2','The characters contributing maximum to the diversity would give supreme opportunity to decide the cluster type for further selection and the choice of parents for a hybrid breeding program. The results revealed that the genotypes from cluster III can be selected for early flowering and higher grain yield per plant and from cluster IV for early maturity so that the direct selection for these traits would helpful as evident from several times these traits appeared or were ranked first during contribution to diversity.','INTRODUCTION \r\nWheat has a long history of serving as an important food crop to mankind. It has been appropriated as a major source of energy through its carbohydrates and in more recent times for its supply of valuables proteins give wheat its unique properties for making food of different kinds of tastes.\r\nWheat is a self-pollinated C3 plant with the cleistogamous condition. The wheat is most successfully grown between the latitude of 30 to 60°N and 27 to 40°N (Nuttonson, 1955) but beyond these limits, it also be grown from arctic to high elevated equators. The optimum temperature for best growth and yield is 25°C with a minimum of 20°C and a maximum of 35°C growth temperature.\r\nWheat is a highly consumed cereal crop by the majority of the people at the global level and holds an important part of food security by providing over 50% calories to the consumers whose staple food is wheat (Gupta et al., 2005). According to Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO), wheat provides 20% of food resources globally and is an essential part of human food (Farzi and Bigloo 2010). Too many food items like bread, chapattis, and many more items are being made of wheat. To meet the demands of wheat for food security for the ever-increasing population it is an urgent need to increase per unit yield by introducing new high-yielding wheat varieties having suitable qualities like baking quality, digestibility, mineral contents etc. as per society’s needs (Ali et al., 2020).\r\nThe genetic diversity of plants affects their capacity for increased productivity and, thus, their usage in breeding, which may ultimately lead to an increased food supply. The need for breeding experiments is thus shown by the increased focus on developing resistant plant species for prolonged food production under various situations. In this regard analysis of genetic divergence present in cultivars become very important as it serves as a storehouse of valuable genes of desired traits for crop improvement.\r\nMATERIALS AND METHODS\r\nExperimental Site. The experiment was carried out at the Agricultural Research Farm, Baba Raghav Das Post Graduate College, Deoria (U.P.). Geographically, this College is located in the east part of Uttar Pradesh, India at 26.5°N latitude, 83.79°E longitude, and 68 meters (223 feet) above the mean sea level.\r\nExperimental Details. Twenty elite cultivars of bread wheat were sown during Rabi 2020-21 in Randomized Block Design with three replications. The row-to-row distance was maintained at 22.5 cm, and the plant-to-plant distance was maintained at 5 cm by hand thinning. All the other recommended agronomic activities were practiced to raise a healthy crop at the experiment station.\r\nObservations Recorded. The observations were recorded for 14 quantitative traits viz., days to 50% flowering, days to maturity, flag leaf area (cm2), plant height (cm), peduncle length (cm), number of productive tillers per plant, spike length (cm), number of spikelets per spike, number of grains per spike, grain yield per spike (g), 1000-grains weight (g), biological yield/plant (g), grain yield per plant (g) and harvest index (%). The data on days to 50% flowering and days to maturity were recorded on plot basis while the rest were measured from five competitive and randomly selected plants from each replication and their mean values were subjected to statistical analysis.\r\nStatistical Analyses\r\nGenetic diversity analysis. The genetic divergence amongst different genotypes is assessed based on the estimated inter-se genetic distances amongst the genotypes. One of the potent techniques for assessing genetic divergence is the D2 statistics proposed by Mahalanobis (1936). D2 statistics technique measures the forces of differentiation at two levels, namely, intra-cluster and inter-cluster levels, and thus helps in the selection of genetically divergent parents for exploitation in hybridization programs.\r\nClustering of genotypes using D2 values. Tocher’s method was used for clustering the genotypes into different groups described by Rao (1952). The basis of clustering by this method was that any two varieties belonging to the same cluster would show smaller D2 values as compared to those belonging to two different clusters. This method started with two closely associated populations to find a third population that had the smallest average of D2 values. In the same manner, the fourth one was chosen to have the smallest average of D2 values among the first three and so on. This process was repeated until the D2 values of all the genotypes were exhausted, except those that were included in the former cluster.\r\nRESULTS AND DISCUSSION \r\nSince the crosses made between the donors having maximum genetic divergence would be more rewarding towards desirable recombinants in the progenies, the diversity of parents is of prime importance for a successful breeding program. However, it is desirable to select suitably genetically divergent parents, based on information about the genetic variability and genetic diversity present in the available germplasm. \r\nClustering pattern of genotypes. The Clustering pattern of the twenty genotypes was grouped into five different non-overlapping Clusters Table 1. Cluster I had the highest number of genotypes having nineentries followed by cluster II with six entries, cluster III, cluster IV, and V representing one entry each. A similar grouping was also done by Ali and Bharadwaj (2015); Tarkeshwar et al. (2019) also recorded ten cluster groups of 84 wheat genotypes.\r\nInter and intra-cluster distances. The magnitude of inter-cluster distance measures the genetic distance between two clusters while intra-cluster distance measures the extent of genetic diversity between the genotypes of the same cluster. The values of intra-cluster distance values were lower than that of inter-cluster distances, indicating wide genetic diversity among the genotypes. \r\nThe averages of average inter and intra-cluster distances represented by the D² value have been given in Table 2. The intra-cluster distance varied from 0.00 to 25.60. The highest intra-cluster distance was observed in the case of cluster II (25.60) followed by cluster I (22.07) while the lowest intra-cluster values were in cases of clusters III, IV, and V (0.00). Earlier studies have also reported substantial genetic divergence in wheat (Kumar et al., 2018; Kumar et al., 2015).\r\nThe inter-cluster distance ranged from 32.81 to 109.26. The maximum inter-cluster distance observed between clusters IV and V (109.26) followed by clusters I and V (87.50) which suggested that members of these two clusters groups are genetically very diverse from each other showing that the genotypes concerned with these clusters have wide genetic diversity and thus genotypes of these clusters can be used in wheat hybridization program for trait improvement. The results found in the present investigation agreed with the results of Preeti et al. (2018).\r\nThe minimum inter-cluster distance was observed between clusters I and IV (32.81) followed by clusters III and IV (33.74) suggesting that the genotypes of these groups are genetically closer to each other. The relatively higher inter-cluster distances were also noted between clusters II and V (85.35) and III and V (75.89). The genotypes of these clusters are also diverse from each other. Tarkeshwar et al. (2019) also noticed these types of results in their investigation.\r\nInter and intra-cluster group means for six clusters. To validate the clusters responsible for a trait or a group of traits under investigation, the intra and inter clusters group means were estimated for various traits and clusters presented in Table 3.\r\nThe clusters I had the highest group mean for plant height (85.6 cm) and lowest mean for number of productive tillers per plant (4.32), biological yield per plant (22.49 g), and grain yield per plant (12.30 g).Cluster II had maximum means for days to maturity (118.92), number of spikelets per spike (19.72),and test weight (47.17 g) while minimum cluster means for peduncle length (42.81 cm).Cluster III was responsible for the highest group means for biological yield per plant (28.31 g) and grain yield per plant (16.30 g) whereas, it possessed the lowest cluster group mean for days to 50% flowering (74.00 days) and grain yield per spike (1.60 g). Cluster IV exhibited the highest means for the characters peduncle length (45.69 cm), number of productive tillers per plant (5.20), and harvest index (63.46%) while the lowest means for flag leaf area (28.88 cm2), days to maturity (81.33 days), number of spikelets per spike (17.23) and number of grains per spike (35.90).Clusters V showed the highest mean for days to 50% flowering (79.00 days), flag leaf area (64.26 cm2), and grain yield per spike (3.30 g) and it also recorded the lowest mean for length of spike (11.27 cm), plant height (78.12) and harvest index (55.21%). The genotypes from the clusters having the lowest values for days to 50% flowering, plant height, and maturity can be incorporated in our breeding program for earlier flowering, short stature, and early maturity and hence can be avoided the stress that develops during late rabi season. On the other hand, genotypes from the clusters having the highest cluster group mean can be used as donor parents for higher values of that trait. The earlier workers also noted similar results for most of the clusters formed in this investigation viz., Kumar et al. (2018) for plant height, biological yield per plant and days to maturity, Gurjar and Marker (2018) for days to maturity, plant height.\r\n','Shivani Chaudhary, Atul Gautam, Avanish Pandey, Tarkeshwar and S.C. Gaur (2022). Analysis of Genetic Divergence in Some Elite Cultivars of Bread Wheat (Triticum aestivum L. em. Thell). Biological Forum – An International Journal, 14(3): 573-576.'),(5324,'136','Effect of Integrated Nutrient Management on Growth and Yield of Papaya \r\n(Carica papaya L)\r\n','Priyam Chattopadhyay and Goutam Mandal','96 Effect of Integrated Nutrient Management on Growth and Yield of Papaya P. Chattopadhyay.pdf','',1,'Papaya is a popular and important fruit crop in this present world for its delicious taste, nutritional value, and medicinal properties and also considered as \"Heavy feeder crop\" because of its quick development, continuous fruiting habit, and high fruit yield, which sets it apart from other fruit crops in terms of nutrition. For this to determine the actual combination of organic and inorganic nutrient for better growth and yield of papaya farming, a field experiment was conducted at a farmers\' field in Kalchini, Alipurduar, West Bengal, between the years of 2018–19 and 2019–20. The experiment consisted of 5 factors (control, biofertilizer + FYM, vermicompost + biofertilizer, boron + FYM, zinc + FYM), 4 Treatments (Control, RDF of NPK, 50% RDF, and 75% RDF), and was replicated three times. The data was statistically analyzed using a randomized full block design. With RDF of NPK + vermicompost + biofertilizer, the maximum growth-related parameters, including plant height (293.930 cm), plant girth (50.475 cm), and total number of leaves (57.500), were observed. In terms of yield characteristics, RDF of NPK + vermicompost + biofertilizer was shown to be superior to other treatments viz. total number of fruits (38.725), fruit set percentage (73.29), total yield (59.47 kg ha-1), fruit weight (1.67 kg), minimum days taken to fruit initiation (121.82). For the above stated parameter treatment 75% RDF of NPK+ vermicompost + biofertilizer was statistically at per with each other.','Papaya, Integrated nutrient management, Growth, Yield','According to the experimental results from the aforementioned field trial, the recommended fertilizer dose of 200: 200: 250 g plant-1 year-1, vermicompost at 5 kg plant-1, and 100 g of well-mixed PSB and azotobactor was found to be superior in nearly every growth and yield related feature. It was also demonstrated that 100 g of well-mixed PSB and azotobactor and 75% RDF + vermicompost @ 5 kg plant-1 were equivalent to the aforementioned treatments. ','INTRODUCTION\r\nIn recent times, papaya (Carica papaya L.) has gained the popularity as a fruit crop because of its delicious flavour, nutritional value, and therapeutic benefits. Papaya belongs to Caricaceae family and has 48 species in total. It is originated in Tropical America and is a tropical fruit that is commonly produced in the tropics and subtropics Arvind et al. (2013); Yograj et al. (2014). It is still regarded as a garden crop despite its enormous size and productivity. However, in recent years, papaya\'s importance as a commercial fruit crop has increased because of its therapeutic and nutritional properties, as well as because of its quick and consistent yielding behaviour, which gives growers early income. Papaya is frequently referred to as the \"Heavy feeder crop\" because of quick growth grows, continuous flowering and fruiting, and how much fruit it produces compared to other fruit crops. In order to maintain the health of the plant and the soil and to provide a lucrative harvest, timely and effective manuring of young and mature plants is absolutely necessary. Because papaya requires a lot of nutrients continuously, using a lot of chemically prepared fertilizers on its own is not only non practical, but also expensive for the poor farmers because the bulk of them are small and marginal ones. Aside from that, the usage of chemical fertilizers has led to an increase in multi-nutrient deficits, nutrient imbalances, and a decline in soil health and production over time (Singh and Varu 2013). Integrated nutrition management may be a viable option in this regard. The main goal of integrated plant nutrient management is to use both organic and inorganic nutrients, as well as other micronutrients, in a more rational way to better understand and evaluate the interactions of different nutrients, as well as to lower production costs by using less inorganic fertilizer. Keeping this in view, the present investigation was conducted to study the effect of integrated nutrient management practices on growth and yield of papaya and to evaluate the ideal treatment combination for the same.\r\nMATERIALS AND METHODS\r\nThe current field study was carried out during 2018-19 and 2019-20 at farmers field in Kalchini, Alipurduar, West Bengal, which is a part of the Terai-Dooars agro climatic region with an EC of 0.26 ds m-1 and a pH of 5.8, the experimental soil comprised 0.5 percent organic carbon, 184.4 kg ha-1 nitrogen, 190 kg ha-1 phosphorus, and 191 kg ha-1 potassium. A three-replication randomized complete block design was used to set up the experiment. The current study included 20 distinct treatments, each with a different nutritional amount, i.e. T0F0 (control), T0F1 (control + biofertilizer + FYM), T0F2 (control + vermicompost + biofertilizer)), T0F3(control + boron + FYM), T0F4(control + zinc + FYM), T1F0(RDF of NPK + control), T1F1(RDF of NPK + biofertilizer + FYM), T1F2(RDF of NPK + vermicompost + biofertilizer), T1F3 (RDF of NPK + boron + FYM), T1F4 (RDF of NPK+ zinc + FYM), T2F0 (50% of RDF + control), T2F1 (50% of RDF + biofertilizer + FYM), T2F2 (50% of RDF + vermicompost + biofertilizer), T2F3 (50% of RDF + boron + FYM), T2F4 (50% of RDF + zinc + FYM), T3F0 (75% of RDF + control), T3F1 (75% of RDF + biofertilizer + FYM), T3F2 (75% of RDF + vermicompost + biofertilizer), T3F3 (75% of RDF + boron + FYM), T3F4 (75% of RDF + zinc + FYM). Because of its widespread acceptance among farmers, the cultivar C.V. Red Fort was chosen for the experiment and bought from a local market. With medium-sized plants, this is a medium-sized F1 hybrid. The fruits are oval in shape and the flesh is a dark reddish orange colour. They are sweet and have a lovely flavour. The young saplings were transplanted to the main field at a spacing of 2m×1.8m during the first week of July. Urea, Single Super Phosphate, and Murate of Potash were applied to the plant in the form of Urea, SSP, and MOP. During field preparation, 1/3 of the fertilizer was applied during pit filling. The remaining are divided in half and applied at a 45days interval. When using Factor F1 as a bio-fertilizer, azotobactor is well mixed with PSB and 100gm of the mixture is applied to the pit during field preparation. During field preparation, FYM used @20 kg plant-1. During the field preparation for Factor F3, vermicompost was applied at a rate of 5 kg plant-1. In the case of micronutrient application, combine the required amounts of Zn and B with water and thoroughly apply to the plants. The micronutrient application procedure was carried out in the evening. The data on yield related attributes was statistically examined.\r\nRESULT AND DISCUSSION\r\nPersual data revealed that integrated nutrient management practices had a good impact on the growth and yield of freshly harvested fruits. The growth related parameter viz. plant height, plant grith, number of leaves was responded significantly in reference with integrated nutrient management practices. Maximum Plant height (293.930cm), plant grith (50.475cm), total number of leaves (57.00) of papaya plant was recorded highest under RDF of NPK + vermicompost + biofertilizer. The combination of inorganic fertilizers, organic manure, vermicompost, and biofertilizers that provide nutrients to the plant in the right proportion and amount at the right time may have helped improve soil aeration, which may have contributed to the maximum improvement of the growth-related parameters. Nayyer et al. (2014) in banana, Srivastava et al. (2014) in papaya, Tripathi et al. (2013) in Isabgol, Mishra and Tripathi (2011) backed with the findings described above. Results for organic nutrient management, including vermicompost and bio fertiliser, were almost equal according to Chaudhary et al. (2004). They found that the amplification of growth characters like Plant grith, plant height, total number of leaves may be caused by the presence of growth-promoting molecules like auxins and cytokinins, which aid in cell division and cell elongation.\r\nThe interplay of organic, inorganic, biofertilizers, and micronutrients on the overall number of blooms on papaya plants was favorable. The reproductive stage data showed that there was significant variability amongst the treatments. The overall number of fruits was higher in the RDF made up of NPK+ vermicompost + biofertilizer. The plants that received the aforementioned treatments produced the most fruits when fed. The above findings are closely in line with Srinu et al. (2017) in papaya, Gupta and Tripathi (2012) in strawberry cv. Chandler, Tripathi et al. (2015a) inaonla and Katiyar et al. (2012) in ber. The use of biofertilizers in conjunction with vermicompost and chemical fertilizers may have a positive impact on the development of inflorescences, which may lead to higher nutrient levels in the crop\'s assimilating area and an increase in the rate of dry matter production, which is positively correlated with the number of flowers and fruits set. A sufficient food supply and the induction of growth hormones increased cell division and cell elongation, which led to an increase in the number of flowers and fruits. In addition to total flower and fruit, fruit set percentage was also successfully replied to in terms of integrated nutrient management techniques. Maximum fruit set percentage was likewise noted under the same treatment combination, according the experiment\'s findings. This kind of observation might have been made because more flowers and fruits were generated, increasing the proportion of fruit set. Vermicompost, various chemical fertilizers, and bio fertilizer may have all contributed in this regard. Tripathi (2012) in strawberry cv. and Srinu et al. (2017) in papaya Chandler made comparable discoveries.\r\nEarly fruiting is a considerably more important criterion that can help producers start making money right away. The number of days needed for fruit to form during the growth period varied among treatments. According to research data, there was a significant difference between comprehensive nutrition management strategies and the number of days it took for the first fruits to begin to appear. Less time was needed for the plants treated with RDF of NPK + vermicompost + biofertilizer to reach fruit development. Early blooming and the simultaneous transport of growth factors like cytokinin to the auxiliary bud, which breaks apical dominance, may be caused by an improved net absorption rate and better development. These factors may also contribute to the production of enough endogenous metabolites. In banana, Hazarika and Ansari (2010); Nayyer et al. (2014); Srinu et al. (2017) in papaya, and Gupta and Tripathi (2012) in strawberry cv. Chandler, Hazarika and Ansari (2010); Nayyer et al. (2014).\r\nAccording to the results of the above experiment, plants treated with RDF of NPK + vermicompost + biofertilizer produced the highest fruit yield (59.47 kg ha-1), fruit weight (1.67 kg), These findings are closely supported by of Nayyer et al. (2014) in banana, Gupta and Tripathi (2012) in strawberry, Katiyar et al. (2012) in ber, Kumar et al. (2015) in Guava, Ravishankar et al. (2010); Kanwar et al. (2020) in papaya. The outcomes mentioned above could be attributable to increased vermicompost, biofertilizers, and chemical fertilizers used in the right amounts to produce more fruit. Additionally, the nitrogen-fixing abilities of vermicompost and the phosphorus-solubilizing capabilities of biofertilizers may boost the availability of nitrogen and phosphorus to plants as well as their translocation, which helps to raise the fruit weight as well as the overall fruit output.\r\n','Priyam Chattopadhyay and Goutam Mandal (2022). Effect of Integrated Nutrient Management on Growth and Yield of Papaya (Carica papaya L). Biological Forum – An International Journal, 14(3): 577-580.'),(5325,'136','Assessment of Heritability and Genetic Advance in Parent and F1 Hybrids of Bottle gourd [Lagenaria siceraria (Mol.) Standl.]','Muzeev Ahmad, Bijendra Singh, Khursheed Alam, Mohd Wamiq, Imran Ali, Rahul Kumar and Rishabh Shukla\r\n','97 Assessment of Heritability and Genetic Advance in Parent and F1 Hybrids of Bottle gourd [Lagenaria siceraria (Mol.) Standl.] Akhtar Rasool.pdf','',1,'The present experiment was carried out in a bottle gourd to assess the heritability and genetic advance for yield and quality component traits. Forty-five bottle gourd hybrids were generated by crossing fifteen lines with three testers cross, along with eighteen parents evaluated in a randomized complete block design with three replications at the experiment station of Horticultural Research Centre, College of Horticulture, Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel University of Agriculture and Technology, Modipuram, Meerut, during the summer season of the year 2020 and 2021. The estimation of heritability act as a predictive instrument in expressing the reliability of phenotypic value. Heritability helps the breeder in the election of elite genotypes from diverse genetic populations. Therefore, high heritability helps in effective selection for a particular trait. \r\nThe high heritability was recorded in average fruit weight (381.16) and fruit yield (93.47). The low heritability was estimated in fruit length (9.76%), days to first fruit harvest (7.42%), fruit girth (7.38%), days to first fruit set (7.49%), first flower initiation (5.46%), days to 50% flowering (5.60%), number of fruits per plant (4.09%), number of primary branches (2.03%), vine length (1.21%). The estimate of genetic advance was recorded highest for average fruit weight (48.48) followed by fruit yield (37.72), fruit length (34.34) and fruit girth (31.00), number of fruits per plant. The highest genetic gain was observed for fruit yield (119.79%) followed by fruit length (12.51%), crop duration (11.21%), days to first fruit set (9.59%) and days to first fruit harvest (9.51%).\r\n','Heritability, genetic advance, bottle gourd\r\n','Estimates of moderate heritability with low genetic advance indicated a preponderance of now additive gene action fruit yield per plant. Hence heterosis breeding approach will be more rewarding than the selection for improvement of bottle gourd.','INTRODUCTION \r\nVegetables are the most sustainable and affordable source of micronutrients including vitamins and minerals, of the new millennium. Vegetable production and consumption have to meet the national increasing population our demand for vegetables to provide nutritional security to every person will be 350 million tonnes by 2030 in the world (FAO, 2017).\r\nBottle gourd [Lagenaria siceraria (Mol.) Standl.] is a crucial vegetable belonging to the Cucurbitaceae family, subfamily cucurbitoideae, and tribe benincaseae (Richardson, 1972). It has a diploid chromosome (2n=2x=22) and belongs to the genus Lagenaria with a genome size of 334 Mb (Beevy and Kuriachan 1996; Achigan-Dako et al., 2008). The names “lagenaria” and “siceraria” are derived from the Latin words “lagena” for bottle and “sicera” for drinking utensils. Its fruit is available in the market thought the year. It is believed to originate in Southern Africa and is widely grown in South and Southeast Asia, China, and Africa (Erickson et al., 2005). \r\nAccording to dieticians, an adult individual requires 300gm (125gm of leafy vegetables, 100gm root and tuber vegetables, and 75gm of other vegetables) of vegetables daily to maintain proper health. However, the per capita consumption of vegetables in India is only 175g which is very low compared to the recommended dose. The bottle gourd fruit contain vitamin C (11.00mg), thiamine (0.044mg), riboflavin (0.023mg), niacin (0.330mg), protein (0.200g), carbohydrate (2.50g) and trace of mineral-like calcium (20.00mg), phosphorus (10.00mg) and iron (0.700mg) in 100gm of fruit (Thamburaj and Singh 2000).\r\nBottle gourd is a highly cross-pollinated crop due to its monoecious and and romonoecious nature (Bose et al., 2002). Being cross-pollinated crops, it has a wide range of variability for maturity, yield, and fruit characteristics like shape and size (Sidhu, 2002). Sex expression in cucurbits is influenced by genetic, environmental, and chemical factors (Tiedjens, 1928). Bottle gourd is the largest produced cucurbitaceous vegetable in the world preferred in both urban and rural populations. It bears simple, alternate leaves 4-12 cm across with 3-7 separated. The fruit shape varies from flat to round, oval, oblong, and long. The fruit color varies from dark green to cream or yellow. The herbaceous tendril-bearing vine grows to 5 m. It is an important gourd having a wide range of use and is largely cultivated in the tropics and subtropics for its edible fruit. It’s easily digestible and cooked vegetable preparation is recommended for patients suffering from stomach problems. In addition, the white pulp of the fruit is emetic, purgative, diuretic, and antibilious and it’s having a cooling effect. Oil from the seed is used to relieve headaches and is also diuretic and nutritive (Rahman et al., 2008). \r\nAn estimate of genetic advance along with heritability is helpful in assessing the reliability of character for selection. Knowledge of the mechanisms underlying the correlations between different traits is fundamental for understanding the degree of integration of the phenotype and resolving the constraints imposed on evolutionary processes (Lynch and Walsh 1998). \r\nAlekar et al. (2019) estimated high heritability for vine length at last harvest, number of primary branches per vine, number of fruits per vine, average fruit yield per vine, the average weight of fruit, average length of fruit, and yield tonnes per hectare. High heritability estimates are comparatively less affected by the environment.\r\nThakur et al. (2017) recorded high heritability for days to the first male and female flower appear, days to 50% flowering, days to fruit set, days to first fruit harvest, a number of branches per plant, fruit length, fruit girth, fruit weight, no. of fruits per plant and yield(q/h). \r\nKhan et al. (2016) reported moderate heritabilityfor fruit yield, the number of fruits per vine, length of fruit, and fruit weight.\r\nMATERIAL AND METHODS\r\nThe present experiment was carried out during the summer season of the years 2020 and 2021, to assess the heritability and genetic advance using a line x-tester mating design with three replications at the experiment station of Horticultural Research Centre, College of Horticulture, Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel University of Agriculture and Technology, Modipuram, Meerut-250110 (U.P.). The experimental materials for the present investigation comprised of fifteen lines with three testers of bottle gourd selected on the basis of the variability. The selected parental lines i.e., IC- 539711, IC- 336757, IC- 394736, IC- 321410, IC- 398541, IC- 321460, IC- 541393, IC- 394857, IC- 310188, Vallabh Saral, IC- 385816, IC- 336820, IC- 418491, Pant Louki-1, Arka Bahar, Narendra Madhuri (T1), Narendra Rashmi (T2) and Pusa Naveen (T3). The present experiments were conducted in a randomized complete block design with three replications to appraise the performance of forty-five F1 and their eighteen parents (fifteen lines and three testers) for the study of heritability and genetic advance for fruit yield and quality attributing traits. This crop was sown in rows spaced at 3 meters apart with a plant-to-plant spacing of 0.50 meters. Sowing was done in 2020 and 2021. All the recommended agronomic packages of practices and protection measures were followed to raise a good crop. The observation was recorded on days to first flower initiation, days to 50% flowering, days of fruit set, days to first fruit harvest, fruit weight (g), fruit length (cm), fruit girth (cm), number of fruits per plant, vine length (m), number of primary branches per plant, duration of crop and fruit yield (q/h). The estimated heritability in the narrow sense (h2ns) has been classified by Kempthorne and Curnow (1963) into three categories viz., high (>30%), medium (10-30%), and low (<10%). The genetic advance as percent of mean was categorized as low, moderate, and high by following Johnson et al. (1955). Low (0-10%), moderate (10-20%) and high (>20%) respectively.\r\nRESULT AND DISCUSSION \r\nThe estimate of heritability and genetic advance in the present mean is present in the Table 1 and Fig. 1. The high heritability was recorded in average fruit weight (381.16) and fruit yield (93.47). The low heritability was estimated in fruit length (9.76%), days to first fruit harvest (7.42%), fruit girth (7.38%), days to first fruit set (7.49%), first flower initiation (5.46%), days to 50% flowering (5.60%), number of fruits per plant (4.09%), number of primary branches (2.03%), vine length (1.21%).\r\nThe estimate of genetic advance was recorded highest for average fruit weight (48.48) followed by fruit yield (37.72), fruit length (34.34), fruit girth (31.00), number of fruits per plant (28.94), number of primary branches (27.71) and vine length (23.45). It was moderate for days to first fruit set (12.80), days to first flower initiation (11.67), days to first fruit harvest (10.22), days to 50% flowering (9.46), and crop duration (6.96).\r\nGenetic advance as percent of mean genetic gain, the highest genetic gain was observed for fruit yield (119.79%), moderate in fruit length (12.51%), crop duration (11.21%), and the low genetic advance was recorded in days to first fruit set (9.59%), days to first fruit harvest (9.51%), days to 50% flowering (7.17%).\r\nA perusal of Table 1 revealed that the high estimate of heritability average fruit weight, fruit yield, and low heritability in fruit length, days to first fruit harvest, fruit girth, days to first fruit set, first flower initiation, days to 50% flowering, number of fruits per plant, number of primary branches, vine length.\r\nThe estimate of genetic advance was recorded highest for average fruit weight, fruit yield, fruit length, and fruit girth. It was moderate for days to first fruit set, days to first flower initiation, days to first fruit harvest, days to 50% flowering, and crop duration.\r\nGenetic advance as percent of mean genetic gain, the highest genetic gain was observed for fruit yield, moderate in fruit length, crop duration, and the low genetic advance was recorded in days to first fruit set, days to first fruit harvest, days to 50% flowering. Similarity findings for the high estimate of heritability for different bottle gourd traits have been also reported by Deepthi et al. (2016); Damor et al. (2016); Rashid et al. (2020); Singh et al. (2021).\r\n','Muzeev Ahmad, Bijendra Singh, Khursheed Alam, Mohd Wamiq, Imran Ali, Rahul Kumar and Rishabh Shukla (2022). Assessment of Heritability and Genetic Advance in Parent and F1 Hybrids of Bottle gourd [Lagenaria siceraria (Mol.) Standl.]. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 14(3): 581-583.'),(5326,'136','Effect of GA3 and Culture Media on in vitro Seed Germination of Papaya cv. TNAU Papaya CO 8','Shalini C., C. Kavitha, J. Auxcilia and K. Hemaprabha','98 Effect of GA3 and Culture Media on in vitro Seed Germination of Papaya cv. TNAU Papaya CO 8 C. Kavitha.pdf','',1,'The present investigation was taken up to study the effect of gibberellic acid and tissue culture media on in vitro seed germination of papaya to obtain uniform, disease free and healthy seedlings. In vitro derived seedlings may serve as explant source for micropropagation in papaya. The experiment was carried out with four treatments replicated four times in two different medium viz., MS and WPM. The results of the study revealed that seeds without presoaking and without seed coat inoculated in the Woody plant medium supplemented with 500 ppm GA3 registered the highest germination percentage (80.40%), seedling length (9.76 cm) and took lesser days for germination (8.23 days). The same treatment in MS medium supplemented with 500 ppm GA3, also registered lesser days for germination (10.81) and recorded the maximum germination percentage of 72.09% with seedling length of 7.11 cm. Seedling vigour index was recorded maximum of 784.70 and 512.55 in seeds inoculated without presoaking and without seed coat in WPM and MS medium fortified with 500 ppm GA3. Among the two media used, WPM was observed to be better for in vitro germination than MS medium and removal of seed coat also influenced the seed germination faster irrespective of the medium. The in vitro generated seedlings can serve as the source of axenic explants for plant regeneration and for further studies. ','Papaya, in vitro seed germination, MS, WPM, GA3, seed coat','The experiment was conducted to standardize a protocol for in vitro seed germination in papaya. Based on the present study, results concluded that medium supplemented with 500 ppm GA3 and seeds inoculated without pre-soaking seed coat recorded a maximum germination percentage and highest seedling height in papaya. Lower concentration of inorganic salts in WPM enhanced the seed germination. This technique enables quick and cost-effective production of a large quantity of axenic seedling plants in papaya which can be used for further tissue culture experiments.','INTRODUCTION\r\nCarica papaya L. commonly known as papaya or pawpaw, is an important fruit crop belonging to the family, Caricaceae and is widespread all around the tropical and sub tropical regions of the world. Papaya is emerging as a main commercial crop in India, during the last few years because of its high nutritive value and ability to produce fruits throughout the year once it starts flowering. It is also reported as ‘universal nutrient basket’ and now being exploited for its medicinal and industrial values. Papaya is a wholesome fruit and is rich in vitamin A (2020 IU/100g) and vitamin C, riboflavin and folate. Ripe papaya is relished as a dessert fruit and is also used for preparation of jam, jelly, salads, refreshing drinks, candies, tutti-frutti etc. Unripe fruits are also cooked as vegetable in India. The latex obtained from the unripe fruits is the primary source of the proteolytic enzyme, papain and is used widely in pharmaceutical, beer, cosmetics and leather industry. Papaya is conventionally and commercially propagated by seed (Bhattacharya and Khuspe 2001) and seedling plants of papaya are not genetically uniform and significant variation in fruit yield, quality and disease susceptibility is observed within cultivated populations (Drew, 1988). \r\nTNAU Papaya CO 8 is a dioecious cultivar released by Tamil Nadu Agricultural University during 2011. It is a red pulped cultivar suitable for fresh fruit consumption, papain extraction and processing into value added products. The yield potential of the variety is 200-220 t/ha in a cropping period of 20-22 months and it is tolerant to PRSV at field level when compared to commercially cultivated gynodioecious varieties. The problem associated with cultivation of this variety is its dioecious nature, in which the plants will segregate into female and male plants. In papaya, until flowering the sex of plants cannot be predicted, and hence in dioecious varieties it is recommended to plant 5-6 seedlings per pit and after flowering and identification of sex, only the most vigorous female plants per pit will be retained and the remaining plants will be thinned out. It is also advised to retain one male plant for every fifteen to twenty female plants for effective pollination and good fruit set. Maintenance of 5-6 plants/ pit till flowering in dioecious varieties, results in wastage of inputs. Though, molecular markers to determine the sex of the papaya plants prior to flowering are reported (Leela et al., 2018), but till date usage of molecular markers for sex identification is not commercially exploited in large scale. Hence, clonal propagation will be of great advantage in papaya. From earlier reports, it is understood that vegetative propagation methods viz., cutting and grafting has recorded low multiplication rates and therefore, micropropagation represents the only economic way of production of uniform and disease-free planting materials. Papaya clones developed through in vitro methods are uniform and true to type (Chan and Teo 2002). \r\nIn vitro grown seedlings can be used as explant source, since they are reported to possess high vigour for clonal multiplication in certain varieties of papaya (Efendi, 2017; da Silva, 2014), kiwi fruit (Akbaş et al. 2007), dragon fruit (Kari et al. 2010), citrus (Hassanein and Azooz 2003), strawberry (Miller, et al., 1992) and stone fruits (Şan et al., 2014). In addition, young seedlings are superior to mature shoot tips of papaya because mature tissues are laden with latex, making tissue culture more challenging. Papaya is more susceptible to the viral disease caused by Papaya Ring Spot Virus (PRSV) and in vitro seed germination will aid in production of disease free, healthy and uniform plantlets which will serve as a source for explants i.e., micro cuttings for further in vitro micropropagation experiments. \r\nMATERIALS AND METHODS \r\nThe current study was carried out at the Plant Tissue Culture laboratory, Horticultural College and Research Institute, Coimbatore during 2021-22. The seeds of TNAU Papaya CO 8 were collected from the fruits of sibmated female trees at the College orchard. After discarding the floats, only matured and healthy seeds were selected and were used for the experiment. All the chemicals used in this study were of analytical grade and the growth regulators were of tissue culture grade procured from Hi-media Pvt. Ltd., India and Sigma Aldrich, USA. \r\nExplants sterilization. The papaya seeds were pretreated with 0.1% streptomycin sulphate and 0.5% carbendazim for 15 minutes each. Then the seeds were washed in continuous running tap water and again rinsed for 3 to 4 times with distilled water. Further, seeds were surface sterilized for 30 seconds with 70% ethyl alcohol under laminar air flow chamber. Seeds were then secondary sterilized with 0.1% mercuric chloride for 3-5 minutes followed by three to four times with sterile water wash. Seed coat was then removed using sterilized forceps and needle inside the LAFC. \r\nCulture establishment. Pre-treated and surface sterilized seeds were then inoculated in Murashige and Skoog medium and Woody Plant Medium. The experiment was carried out with four different treatments as detailed below and replicated four times with twenty five explants each.\r\nT1 - Basal medium + pre-soaked seeds with 500 ppm GA3 without seed coat \r\nT2 - Basal medium + pre-soaked seeds with 500 ppm with intact seed coat\r\nT3 - Basal medium supplemented with 500 ppm GA3 + seeds without presoaking and without seed coat\r\nT4 - Basal medium supplemented with 500 ppm GA3 + seeds without presoaking and with intact seed coat\r\nCultures were incubated at 25±2°C, 80-85% relative humidity, 16/8 hours of light/dark under a 3000 lux white fluorescent light source and the observations were recorded periodically. \r\nObservations recorded. The observations on the parameters viz., germination percentage, days taken for first germination, days taken for 50% germination, seedling height and seedling vigour index were recorded. The seedling height and germination percentage were measured on 30th day after inoculation.\r\nStatistical analysis. The experiment was carried out in completely randomized design. The data were analysed by estimating analysis of variance and working out the critical difference value. The critical difference (CD) values were calculated for five percent probability (0.05) as per the statistical methodologies suggested by Panse and Sukhatme (1976).\r\nRESULTS AND DISCUSSION\r\nGermination Percentage. In the present study, the germination percentage on in vitro derived seedlings of papaya was significantly influenced by the treatments as well as by the culture media. It is noticed from the data (Table 1), the treatment T3 (Basal medium fortified with 500 ppm GA3 and seeds without presoaking and without seed coat) registered higher germination percentage of 72.09% and 80.40% in MS and WPM respectively. The least germination percentage of 50.45% and 55.90% respectively in MS and WPM was obtained in T2. The role of GA3 is to activate cytological enzymes, to increase cell wall flexibility and to improve water absorption and thereby aiding in seed germination more effectively (Anburani and Shakila 2008). GA3 also encourages shoot elongation in seedlings by enhancing nutrient mobilisation and root activity (Barche et al., 2008). Earlier workers reported that in vitro and in vivo seed germination was affected by seed coat removal (Shankarraja and Sulikeri 1993; Page and Staden, 1985; Kyauk et al., 1995; Tseng, 1991) and in particular, seed coat removal has fastened in vitro germination in papaya (Bowiya et al., 2019). The maximum germination percentage observed in WPM compared to MS, might due to low concentration of NH4NO3 and replacement of K2SO4 instead of KNO3 in WPM. Highest seed germination percentage in woody plant medium might also be due to lesser nitrogen content present in the WPM medium and similar findings are reported by Xiaoli et al. (2012).\r\nDays taken for first germination and 50% of germination. In the present study, the days taken for first germination and 50% of germination were significantly influenced by the treatments as well as by the culture media. The days taken for first germination ranged from 8.23 to 22.98 irrespective of the culture medium. Among the treatments, T3 (Basal medium fortified with 500 ppm GA3 and seeds without presoaking and without seed coat) recorded least days for first germination of 10.81 and 8.23 days in MS medium and WPM respectively (Table 2). Longer days for first germination (22.98 and 21.20) were observed in treatment T2 in MS medium and WPM respectively. Similar results were also obtained for days to 50% of germination of papaya seeds. The seeds devoid of seed coat exhibited earlier germination compared to seeds inoculated along with seed coat. Seed coat removal enabled earlier attainment of first germination and fifty percent germination. These results are in line with the findings of Bhattacharya and Khuspe (2001). In addition, seed germination in the treatment T3 was improved due to the involvement of GA3 by activation of cytological enzymes, increasing cell wall plasticity and better water absorption (Anburani and Shakila 2008).\r\nSeedling height and seedling vigour index. The in vitro seedlings of TNAU Papaya CO 8 attained 9.76 cm height at 30 days after inoculation in the treatment T3 and lowest seedling height was recorded in T2 (5.64 cm) in WPM medium (Table 3). While in MS medium, the maximum height of in vitro seedlings was recorded in T3 (7.11 cm) and the lowest seedling height (4.78 cm) was registered in T2 (Table 3). The seedling vigour index was calculated in the present study and the highest seedling vigour index was recorded in WPM medium in T3 (784.70) and lowest seedling vigour index in T2 (315.28). In MS medium maximum seedling vigour index was reported in T3 (512.55) and minimum seedling vigour index recorded in T2 (241.51). The maximum seedling height was recorded in WPM compared to MS medium and it may due to presence of potassium sulphate in the WPM medium. Similar finding that the influence of potassium sulphate in seedling growth and high seedling vigour index was reported by Aliloo (2015). \r\n','Shalini, C., C. Kavitha, J. Auxcilia and K. Hemaprabha (2022). Effect of GA3 and Culture Media on in vitro Seed Germination of Papaya cv. TNAU Papaya CO 8. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 14(3): 584-588.'),(5327,'136','Combining Ability Studies for Morphological Traits in Sunflower (Helianthus annuus L.)','S.C. Nagrale, S.B. Sakhare, S.U. Fatak and S.S. Nichal','99 Combining Ability Studies for Morphological Traits in Sunflower (Helianthus annuus L.) S.C. Nagrale.pdf','',1,'The present investigation used four CMS lines and nine testers as a parental material and crossing was made in line × tester mating design to obtained 36 hybrids to estimate general combining ability effects of parents and specific combining ability effects of hybrids. 36 hybrids and 13 parents were evaluated with randomized block design in three replications during year Kharif-2019 at Agriculture Research Station, Amravati. The observations were recorded yield and yield contributing traits. Among the parents, AKSF-10-1-1A and GP4 2902 considered best general combiner for yield and its contributing traits. Out of 36 hybrids top most three hybrids i.e CMS- 17 A × PKV-106 R, CMS - 302 A × AK- 1R, AKSF -10-1-1A × Gp6389 displayed highest significant positive sca effects for yield and major yield contributing components and found to be promising results for yield and yield contributing traits, hence it may be use in future breeding programs. ','Combining ability, GCA, SCA, hybrids, sunflower','Overall results showed that among the parents, AKSF-10-1-1A and GP42902 noted to be best general combiners for yield and most of the yield contributing traits. The hybrids CMS- 17 A × PKV-106 R, CMS - 302 A × AK- 1R and AKSF -10-1-1A × Gp6389 were best specific combination for seed yield and its related traits. Hence above the parents and hybrids may be useful for hybridization and selection programme for hybrid developments.','INTRODUCTION\r\nSunflower (Helianthus annuus L. 2n=2x=34) is an important oilseed crop, belongs to the family Compositae (Karande et al., 2020). Suited to different agro-climatic zones of India due to its agronomic merits viz., wider adaptability, photothermo-insensitivity, high yield potential, high oil content, drought tolerance, short duration, easy cultivation, responsiveness to better management practices, suitability to fit in to different cropping systems and patterns and remunerative market price (Rathi et al., 2019; Debaeke et al., 2017). Sunflower contains 38-42 per cent oil and it is considered as good quality oil due to high concentration of linoleic (55-60%) and oleic acid (25-30%) (poly unsaturated fatty acids) (Lakshman et al., 2020).\r\nPoor seed set and high percentage of empty seeds are the major constrains in sunflower. Discovery of cytoplasmic male sterility by Leclercq (1969) and fertility restoration system by Kinnman (1970) makes possible to breeders to overcome these constrains by focusing their attention towards production of hybrids through heterosis breeding. In India, the first sunflower hybrid (by using cytoplasmic genetic male sterility) BSH-1 was released in 1980 for commercial cultivation. (Seetharam, 1984).\r\nThe selection of parents is one of the important aspects in developing the potential hybrid. The study of combining ability is useful in testing of hybrid combinations and in choice of the desirable parents for use in the heterosis breeding. Line × tester (L × T) mating design by Kempthorne (1957), which was widely used to extract the Information about the potentiality of the parental lines and the gene action governing the inheritance of traits.\r\nMATERIAL AND METHOD\r\nThe experimental material consist of four CMS lines (AKSF -10 – 1 – 1 A, CMS – 302, CMS – 17A, ARM – 250 and nine testers (GP6961, GP61075, GP61075, GP62902, AK – 1R, 856R, PKV – 103, R298 – 1R and PKV – 106R) crossing was made using line × tester mating design to obtained 36 hybrids at Oilseeds Research Unit, Dr. Panjabrao Deshmukh Krishi Vidyapeeth, Akola during Rabi-2019 season. The resultant 36 hybrids and 13 parents were evaluated in randomized block design with three replications at Agriculture Research Station, Amravati during kharif-2019 seasons. Each hybrid and parental lines consist of three rows of 3.0m length with a spacing of 60cm between rows and 30cm between plant. All the package of practices was followed for good crop growth. The observations were recorded on five randomly selected plants from each genotype in each replication on seven characters viz., days to maturity, plant height (cm), head diameter (cm), 100 seed weight (g), 100 volume weight (g/ml), seed filling, and seed yield (g).\r\nRESULTS AND DISCUSSION\r\nThe variances due to parents and hybrids noted significant differences for all the characters presented in Table 1 indicating presence of the sufficient variability in the genetic material. The variances due to lines vs testers were significant for all the traits studied summarised in Table 2. Significant variance indicated the presence of substantial amount of genetic variability among the parents and hybrids for all characters.\r\nGeneral combining ability effects results of 13 parents for seed yield and yield contributing traits were presented in Table 3 for characters days to 50% flowering, days to maturity and plant height the parents possessing negative and significant gca are desirable as they contribute to dwarf and early maturity. Thus, among the female parents CMS-17A (-0.963 and -8.822) recorded highly significant and negative gca effects while among male parents, 298-1R (-1.519), AK- 1R (-1.185) and GP42902(-0.769) found to be good general combiners for early maturity and the parents, GP6961(-9.911), GP61075(--6.995) and GP6389(-9.895) recorded good general combiner for plant height. Thus these are the parents may be useful for development of early and dwarf hybrids. Significant negative gca effects for plant height and days to maturity were also noted by Hilli et al. (2020); Karande et al. (2020); Dake et al. (2021). \r\nFemale parent, ARM-250A were found to be good general combiner for 100 seed weight, volume weight and seed filling percentage, while male parents GP4 2902 (1.614), and PKV-103R(0.750) showed significant and positive gca effects for head diameters and parent 856 R (1.278 and 2.704) were found to be best general combiner for head diameters and seed filling percentage. Parent GP6961 (0.335) were found to best general combiner for 100 seed weight.\r\nAmong the parents, AKSF-10-1-1A (1.128) and GP42902(8.355) exhibited positive and significant gca effects for seed yield and most of yield contributing traits i.e., days to maturity, head diameter, 100 seed weight, volume weight and seed filling percentage). Hence it concluded that the parent with high gca effects for yield also reported high gca effects for other yield contributing characters. Similar results also reported by Lakshman et al. (2019); Habib (2021); Andarkhor et al. (2012); Asif et al. (2013); Saleem et al. (2014) for yield and yield contributing traits i.e. head diameter, 100 seed weight, volume weight and seed filling percentage.\r\nSpecific combining ability effects for yield and its contributing traits are summarized in Table 4. The minimum SCA effects are considered to be desirable for days to maturity and plant height. The hybrids which recorded significant negative sca effects for days to maturity and plant height contribute for earliness and dwarf plant height.\r\nOut of 36 hybrids 9 and 12 hybrids exhibited negative and significant sca effects for days to maturity and plant height respectively. The hybrid ARM – 250 A × AK- 1R (-2.889 and -20.023) recorded highest negative significant sca effect for days to maturity and plant height respectively. The hybrids ARM – 250 A × Gp61075 (-2.889) and CMS - 17 A × PKV – 103R (-2.704) exhibited highest significant and negative sca effects for days to maturity, while the hybrids AKSF -10-1-1A × PKV 106 R (-19.803) and CMS - 302 A × Gp6389(-18.012) showed significantly highest negative sca effects for plant height. Memon et al. (2015); Kale et al. (2019) also observed the significant negative sca effects for maturity and plant height.\r\nLarger head diameter has a greater number of seed and also contributes towards more yield. Among the 36 hybrids, 8 hybrids exhibited significant positive sca effects for head diameter. Highest magnitude of significant and positive sca effects was found in hybrids CMS- 17 A × PKV-106 R(5.121), CMS - 302 A × AK- 1R(3.367), AKSF -10-1-1A × Gp6389(3.212).\r\n Highest 100 seed weight is an also important yield contributing trait. Hence maximum weight of 100 seed, more will be the yield. Out of 36 hybrids 16 hybrids displayed significant positive sca effects. The hybrid CMS - 302 A × Gp61075(1.106) displayed highest significant sca effects for 100 seed weight, followed by hybrids CMS - 302 A × AK- 1R (1.025) and CMS - 17 A × 856R (0.983).\r\nSeed filling percentage is an important character for obtaining higher seed yield per head in sunflower. Hence positive SCA effects are considered to be desirable. The positive and significant sca effects for seed filling percentage was observed in 15 hybrids. The best three hybrids combinations CMS- 17 A × PKV-106 R(13.168), CMS - 302 A × AK- 1R(11.405) and CMS - 302 A × Gp6961(7.928) exhibited highest significant sca effects for seed filling percentage.\r\nHighest seed yield is an ultimate objective in any crop breeding programme hence the best three hybrids combination along with highest magnitude of significant positive sca effects were observed in CMS- 17 A × PKV-106 R(16.140), CMS - 302 A × AK- 1R(12.45) AKSF -10-1-1A × Gp6389(12.023). Among the 36 hybrids 10 hybrids noticed significant positive sca effects for seed yield. The positive significant sca effects for seed yield and yield contributing component reported by Devi et al. (2005); Andarkhor (2012); Din et al. (2014); Memon et al. (2015); Karande et al. (2020); Habib et al. (2021).\r\n','S.C. Nagrale, S.B. Sakhare, S.U. Fatak and S.S. Nichal (2022). Combining Ability Studies for Morphological Traits in Sunflower (Helianthus annuus L.). Biological Forum – An International Journal, 14(3): 589-593.'),(5328,'136','Sogatella Complex (Delphacidae: Hemiptera) from Irrigated Rice Fields of \r\nTamil Nadu\r\n','Feby Atee, N. Chitra, V. Balasubramani, Sheela Venugopal and R. Kumaraperumal','100 Sogatella Complex (Delphacidae Hemiptera) from Irrigated Rice Fields of Feby Atee.pdf','',1,'Sogatella spp from irrigated rice fields in Tamil Nadu were collected during November 2021 to April 2022 from different crop growth stages. Two species viz. S. furcifera (Horvath, 1899) and S. vibix (Haupt, 1927) (Delphacidae: Hemiptera) were identified. Of the 14 locations from three districts surveyed viz. Coimbatore, Kanyakumari and Tanjore, Sogatella spp. were found to occur in Coimbatore and Kanyakumari. The relative abundance of S. furcifera was dominant (97.57%) over S. vibix (2.43%). S. furcifera and S. vibix are described and illustrated.','S. furcifera, S. vibix, Fulgoroidea','In spite of being a major devastating pest of rice, records on Sogatella sp. distribution and their relative abundance from rice ecosystems of Tamil Nadu is limited. Careful and consistent study on the species complex of major pest genus is essential to understand their seasonal abundance relative to one another, possibility of vectoring disease causing phytopathogen and cases of introduction of invasive species into the country.','INTRODUCTION\r\nIndia is one of the leading producers of rice. It is estimated that production of rice during 2020-21 was 122.27 million tonnes (Press Information Bureau, 2021). Among many rice production constraints, insect pest outbreaks are an important reason for yield loss. Planthoppers (Fulgoroidea: Hemiptera) are a common pest of rice, with few species of high economic importance. White backed planthopper (WBPH) Sogatella furcifera apart from brown planthopper (BPH) Nilaparvata lugens is an important sucking pest of rice causing considerable loss in rice production. Possible reasons for the sudden outbreak of WBPH in the rice ecosystem were the introduction of hybrid varieties (Sogawa, 2004) and resistance to insecticides (Su et al., 2013). Direct yield loss occurs due to the sucking of plant sap which results in hopper burn, and its role as a possible vector of southern rice black-streaked dwarf virus (SRBSDV) results in indirect yield loss (Zhou et al., 2008). Due to high economic loss caused in rice production by the planthoppers a correct and quick identification of the species with adequate description for their easy recognition is necessary. Information on taxonomy of the planthoppers and variation in their population density would be of immense use in the coming years. Taxonomic work and continuous record on population dynamics of the second most important planthopper pest of rice, the WBPH is scare in Tamil Nadu. The current work is undertaken to document Sogatella spp. present in the irrigated rice fields of Tamil Nadu and understand its population density.\r\nMATERIALS AND METHODS\r\nPlaces of collection: Planthopper collection was undertaken from the irrigated rice fields from three district of Tamil Nadu -- Cauvery Delta Zone (Tanjore), High Rainfall zone (Kanyakumari) and Western Zone (Coimbatore) in 14 places from November 2021 to April 2022.\r\nCuration and identification: Planthoppers were collected using sweep net and light traps from the irrigated rice fields randomly in the three districts with an aspirator. The collected hoppers were killed using ethyl acetate (99%) and examined under microscope (MOTIC: SMZ143) for observing external morphology and to sort out the Sogatella sp. The dried specimens were card mounted and labeled. Photographs were taken using Leica M205C (LAS X Application Suite montage software) and morphometry was carried out using the above software. Male genitalia was dissected using the dissection technique followed by Knight (1965). Species confirmation was based on the taxonomic keys and literature (Asche and Wilson 1990; Barrion and Litsinger 1994; Wilson and Claridge 1991; Bartlett et al., 2014). \r\nRESULT\r\nAmong the 14 locations surveyed for planthoppers in three districts, S. furcifera was recorded from Kanyakumari (6 locations), Coimbatore (2 locations) and S. vibix from Coimbatore (2 locations) (Table 1). Sogatella spp. was not recorded from Tanjore district (Table 1). The relative abundance of S. furcifera was dominant (97.57%) over S. vibix (2.43%) (Table 1). S. furcifera was found to be dominant in tillering and panicle initiation stage of rice and S. vibix during early vegetative stage and tillering stage.\r\nThe observed species of Sogatella are described.\r\nGenus Sogatella Fennah, 1956\r\nChloriona (Sogatella) Fennah, 1956\r\nType species: Delphax furcifera Horvarth, 1899\r\nDiagnosis: Tiny yellowish brown planthopper with a distinct white to warm buff median vitta visible dorsally from vertex to tip of scutellum. Pygofer with U shaped diaphragm margin. Paramere at diverging angle, bifurcated apically with different depth of bifurcation. Aedeagus twisted, laterally flattened, apically pointed, opening located subapically reaching upto apex.\r\nKeys to species of Genus Sogatella from Tamil Nadu. 1. Black frons, gena and clypeus (Fig. 1 b). Anal segment with narrow lateroapical angle with pair of short spinous process projected downwards (Fig. 1 c, e). Diaphragm with wide trough like lateral margins ending in tiny raised peg (Fig. 1 d). Parameres with superficially bifurcated almost similar inner, outer apical lobes (Fig. 1 f). Short median stump along outer margin of posterior pygofer opening (Fig. 1 d)…………………………………………..S. furcifera.\r\n- Black gena (Fig. 2b). Anal segment with wider lateroapical angle, moderately long spinous process projecting downwards (Fig. 2c, e). Diaphragm deeply concave with peg like process at each lateral end (Fig. 2 d). Parameres deeply bifurcated apically forming large outer process strongly diverging, bluntly tapering towards outside, small inner process moderately diverging (Fig. 2f)………………………….....S. vibix.\r\n1. Sogatella furcifera (Horvath, 1899)\r\nMaterials examined: 15♂: Tamil Nadu, Kanyakumari (21. xii. 2021; 30.i.2022; 04. i. 2022), 6♂: Tamil Nadu, Coimbatore (15.xii.2021; 16.ii.2022.), leg. FEBY ATEE. \r\nDescription: Adult (♂) Body length: 3.46 mm, width across eye: 0.55mm, width across hind margin of pronotum: 0.72mm. Head: Antenna yellowish brown, pedicel longer than scape by 2.5:1 Yellowish brown vertex, black frons, gena, prominent yellowish brown to pale yellow lateral, median carina. Vertex as long as wide, apex marked by fusion of the bifurcated median carina. Frons longer than wide by 2.41:1 (Fig. 1 a-b).\r\nThorax: Pronotum yellowish white with dark black patch beneath the eye. Mesonotum as scutellum marked by distinct pale yellow median vitta and black lateral area. Black to dark brown first and second coxa, pleura and pale yellow leg segments. Mesonotum longer than vertex and pronotum together by 1.25:1. Prominent median carina present. Forewings longer than wide by 3.37:1, sub hyaline with black pterostigma arising a little before the point of PCu + A, ending at point of PC + 1A touching wing margin, darker end vein, apical region of tegmina with somber marking. Foliaceous calcar with 25 to 30 teeth (Fig. 1 a-b).\r\nAbdomen: Dorsally dark brown to black abdominal segment with tinge of light ochraceous buff colour along posterior margin of each segment excluding fully black to dark brown genital segment. Laterally dorsal margin of pygofer shorter than ventral margin. Lateral margin of dorsal region simple. Posteriorly opening wider than long (Fig. 1 d). Short anal segment with a pair of short spinous process projected downwards narrowly separating the anterior region of anal segment (Fig. 1 c, e). Aedeagus with 18 downward projecting spines on left 14 along right side (Fig. 1 g). Diaphragm short, wide trough like lateral margins ending in tinyraised peg (Fig. 1 d). Parameres divergent, basally wider, narrow towards apex, slight constriction just before the superficially bifurcated almost similar inner, outer lobe (Fig. 1 f). Short median stump along outer margin of posterior pygofer opening (Fig. 1 d).\r\n2. Sogatella vibix (Haupt, 1927) \r\nMaterials examined: 3♂: Tamil Nadu, Coimbatore (15.xii.2021; 13.xii.2021.), leg. FEBY ATEE.\r\nDescription: Adult(♂) Body length: 3.22 mm, width across eye: 0.50 mm, width across hind margin of pronotum: 0.68 mm. Head: Antenna whitish yellow. Scape shorter than pedicel by 1:2.5. Light ochraceous buff vertex, frons, vertex longer than wide at base by 1.3:1; median carina branched from vertex base to apex/ median carina forked at base and merged above fastigium; light ochraceous buff clypeus with black gena. Outer, inner carina visibility obscure to prominent (Fig. 2 a-g).\r\nThorax: Yellowish white pronotum with dark yellowish brown patch underneath compound eye. Lateral and middle carina prominent. Mesonotum with whitish yellow median vitta, brownish lateral area. Mesonotum longer than vertex and pronotum together by 1.24:1, mesonotum and pronotum by 2.5:1. Mesopleura with a black triangular marking, metapleura with two adjacent black patch. Leg tips black, while rest of the thorax, leg segments pale yellow white. Forewing longer than wide by 3.4:1, semitransparent without pterostigma. Calcar with 21-22 teeth (Fig. 2 a).\r\nAbdomen: Dark brown to black colour with pale yellow tinge at each segmental margin excluding the all brown pygofer. Dorsal margin of pygofer shorter than ventral margin, lateral dorsal margin simple. Anal segment short with wider lateroapical angle, moderately long spinous process projecting downwards (Fig. 2 c, b). Aedeagus with approximately 16-18 along left side, 8 on right side (Fig. 2 g). Diaphragm deeply concave with peg like process at each lateral end (Fig. 2 d). Parameres almost uniformly broad excluding a shallow constriction along the mid half length. Apex deeply bifurcated forming large outer process strongly diverging, bluntly tapering towards outside, small inner process moderately diverging (Fig. 2 f).\r\nDISCUSSION\r\nFrom the three locations under the study S. furcifera was recorded from Kanyakumari and Coimbatore and exhibited a higher abundance (97.57%) than S. vibix (2.43%) which was observed only in Coimbatore (Table 1). Contrary to the report of Catindig et al. (2009) where S. furcifera was observed in high numbers from light trap collection from Aduthurai, Tanjore district in 2009.The present study did not document S. furcifera from Tanjore district. Earlier records on Sogatella sp. from rice ecosystems of Tamil Nadu include Chelliah and Gunathilagaraj (1990), Gunathilagaraj and Kumar (1997a, b), Rao and Chalam, (2007), Kumaresan et al. (2016), Kiruba et al. (2006). None of the earlier reports has documented Sogatella sp. from Kanyakumari district, S. vibix from Coimbatore district. This is the first report of S. furcifera from Kanyakumari and S. vibix from Coimbatore. Based on the taxonomic description carried out, it is suggested that apart from the common key characteristics like shape of diaphragm, paramere which is widely used to confirm the two species of Sogatella, S. furcifera, S. vibix short median stump along with outer margin of paramere opening when viewed posteriorly, length of anal segment spine can also be used as additional species confirmational characters. \r\n','Feby Atee, N. Chitra, V. Balasubramani, Sheela Venugopal and R. Kumaraperumal (2022). Sogatella Complex (Delphacidae: Hemiptera) from irrigated Rice Fields of Tamil Nadu. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 14(3): 594-598.'),(5329,'136','Isolation, Characterization and effect of Micro - Macronutrients on the growth of Helminthosporium oryzae','Naga Hari Chandana K., Karthiba L., Saraswathi R. and Ramanathan A.','101 Isolation, Characterization and Effect of Micro - Macronutrients on the growth of Helminthosporium oryzae Ramanathan A.pdf','',1,'Brown spot disease caused by Helminthosporium oryzae is considered to be a serious threat in rice cultivation in India. This disease in rice is causing a considerable yield loss in different rice growing regions of the world. In present study, Helminthosporium oryzae isolates were collected from five different rice growing regions of Tamil Nadu. Further, morphological characterization was studied on different media and molecular characterization of all the five isolates was done using ITS-1 and ITS-4 primers. Four macro nutrients viz., Ammonium sulphate, potassium sulphate, calcium sulphate and magnesium sulphate and four micro nutrients viz., ferrous sulphate, manganese sulphate, copper sulphate and zinc sulphate were tested against the growth of pathogen by incorporating these nutrients separately in Czapek’s dox medium at 0.1%, 0.2% and 0.3% conc. individually. Among four micronutrients tested, ZnSO4 @ 0.3% show maximum mycelial growth inhibition. Among four macronutrients tested, K2SO4 @ 0.3% recorded maximum inhibition of the growth of mycelium.','Brown spot, macronutrients, micronutrients, mycelial growth, rice crop','Hence, these findings revealed the role of micro and macronutrients play key role in management of brown spot of rice. ','INTRODUCTION\r\nRice, second only to wheat in terms of area and production, is the primary source of food for nearly 90 percent of the world\'s human population, particularly in Asia. In terms of area and production, India is the world\'s second largest producer of rice after China. Rice is an important grain that contains a high amount of carbohydrate, protein, and fat. It accounts for more than one-fifth of all calories consumed by humans worldwide (Jatoi et al., 2018). The global demand for rice grain is increasing due to the continuous growth of the world population. There is a need to improve production technology in order to meet the demand. However, with the introduction of improved technologies and high yielding varieties, the crop has became susceptible to a wide range of biotic and abiotic stresses, particularly biotic stresses such as diseases (Sunder et al., 2014).\r\nBrown spot of rice caused by Helminthosporium oryzae (Breda de Haan) Shoemaker (Teleomorph – Cochliobolus miyabeanus) was a major problem that eventually caused sustainable losses in both quality and quantity (Hossain et al., 2011). Furthermore, the disease triggered the tragic incidence of Bengal famine in 1943, which claimed the lives of 2 million people in the Bengal region prior to partition. The disease has the potential to increase crop severity by up to 90%, reducing crop growth, grain discoloration, and market quality of rice grain (Valarmathi and Ladhalakshmi 2018).\r\nH. oryzae causes characteristic leaf spot on all the susceptible varieties of rice and the pathogen infects the rice plant at all the stages of its growth. Spots are formed on the blade and the leaf sheath. The spots vary in the shape and size. Pathogen attacks crop from seedling to milky stage. The symptoms appear as minute spots on the coleoptile, leaf blade, leaf sheath and glume, the spots are most prominent on leaf blades and glumes. On leaves, typical spots are brown in colour with grey or whitish centre resembling sesame seed with typical yellow halo over the spot (Sunder et al., 2005). \r\nThere are two types of primary resistance mechanisms by which mineral nutrition can affect i.e., either by forming the mechanical barriers, primarily by the development of thicker cell walls, or by the synthesis of natural defense compounds, such as phytoalexins, antioxidants, and flavanoids, that would provide protection against pathogens (Bhaduri et al., 2014; Prakash and Verma 2016; Meena et al., 2015a, 2016; Priyadharsini and Muthukumar 2016; Kumar et al. 2017). \r\nSoil and Foliar application of sulphur-based nutrients has proven effective to boost resistance to a variety of fungi pathogens on various crops (Wang et al., 2003; Klikocka et al., 2005). The use of fertiliser in Indian soil conditions increased the disease resistance, improved seed viability, and seedling viability (Cakmak et al., 2009). Zinc has ben mentioned by many authors in sulphate form for the treatment of rice diseases (Ramabadran and Velazhagan 1988; Reddy et al., 1989; Singh et al., 2009). As a result, this present research has been conducted to develop novel, more effective, and long-term disease management programs. Hence, the present study is mainly focused on the collection, morphological and molecular characterization of brown spot pathogen in rice, and its effective management by using macronutrients and micronutrients.\r\nMATERIALS AND METHODS\r\nCollection of samples. The infected rice leaf samples were collection from different rice growing regions of Tamil Nadu viz., Paddy breeding station (Coimbatore), Tamil Nadu Rice Research Institute (Aduthurai), Hybrid Rice Evaluation Centre (Gudalur), Farmer’s field (Ariyalur), Farmer’s field (Tiruchirappalli) from the varieties CO 52, BPT 5204, VGDM-9, CR 1009 and CO-43 respectively during the season of Rabi-2021.\r\nIsolation of the pathogen. The fungus was isolated from a leaf sample infected with brown spot. The infected leaf samples were washed with sterile water and the infected portion of the leaf along with the green portion were cut into small pieces. These were dipped in 1 per cent sodium hypochlorite for 1 minute and then washed three times with sterile distilled water to remove the excess sodium hypochlorite. To remove excess water from the leaf surface, the leaf bits were air dried on blotter paper. These surface sterilized infected leaf pieces were placed on sterile Petriplates containing solidified PDA media which is amended with streptomycin sulphate to avoid bacterial contamination. The petri-plates were incubated for three days at 28+2°C, and the actively growing mycelium was sub-cultured. The isolated fungi were purified using the single spore method, and the purified cultures were stored at 4°C in PDA slants. The isolates were named as HO-1 to Coimbatore, HO-2 to Aduthurai, HO-3 to Gudalur, HO-4 to Ariyalur, and HO-5 toTiruchirappalli isolates.\r\nCultural variability. The colony morphological growth of all the five isolates are carried out on different media like potato dextrose agar (PDA) media, host extract agar (HEA) media, Czapek’s dox agar (CZA) media and malt extract agar (MEA) media to know the media that is more suitable for the growth of the pathogen.\r\nMorphological characterization. Five isolates were morphologically characterized in PDA and incubated at 28+2°C for 7 days. Colony growth, mycelial colour, sporulation, conidium size, shape, colour, and conidiophore characteristics were all observed. For 5–7 days, all five isolates were grown in PDA medium. A 9.0 mm mycelial disc from a 7-day-old culture was placed in the centre of a sterilized glass slide under aseptic conditions on a moist sterile Petri-plate and incubated at 25 ± 2°C for 3 days with 12 hours of light and 12 hours of darkness. After 3 days of incubation, the spore suspension was collected and examined under a compound microscope using sterile distilled water at 40X magnification (Kumari et al., 2015).\r\nPathogenicity test. For pathogenicity test, three different rice varieties viz., CO 39, TN 1, BPT 5204 are used. Each variety is maintained at three replications. Based on cultural variability, HO-1 isolate is found to be more effective in growth, so HO-1 isolate is mass multiplied in sterilized paddy chaffy grains in 250 ml conical flask for 15 days. The spore suspension is collected by adding sterile water in the conical flask and shake vigorously and the suspension is filtered through muslin cloth. Then the spore concentration is adjusted to 5 × 105 using haemocytometer. 2-3 drops of Tween-20 is added to the spore suspension and it is sprayed on 30 days old plants. The control plants are sprayed with sterile distilled water alone. Inoculated plants are covered with transparent bag for 24 hrs (Nazari et al., 2015).\r\nPDI is calculated based on the formula given below , by adopting 0-9 scale \r\n\r\nPer cent disease index (PDI) = \r\n \r\nMolecular Characterization:\r\nDNA extraction. The brown spot pathogen isolates were grown in Potato Dextrose Broth for 15 days before harvesting the mycelial mats through filter paper. The mycelial mats were dried for 24 hours at room temperature. The DNA was extracted using the CTAB method, as described by (Saghai-Maroof et al., 1984). The extracted genomic DNA was electrophoresed on 0.8 % agarose gel for 30 minutes with loading dye, and the presence of genomic DNA was documented using an image analyzer.\r\nPCR analysis. The universal primers ITS-1 (5\'-TCCGTAGGTGAACCTGCGG-3\') and ITS4 (5\'-TCCTCCGCTTATTGATATGC-3\') were used to screen all five H. oryzae isolates. The PCR amplification reaction was performed in a final volume of 30µl, which included 15 µl Master mix, 3 µl forward primer ITS-1, 3 µl reverse primer ITS-4, and 6µl sterile distilled water. Amplified by universal primers ITS-1 and ITS-4 (White et al., 1990) with PCR conditions which are described by Berbee et al., 1999. The PCR amplification was performed in a thermo cycler with the following conditions: initial denaturation at 95°C for 2 minutes, followed by 40 cycles of denaturation (95°C for 30 seconds), annealing (55°C for 30 seconds), and extension (72°C for 1 minute), and final extension at 72°C for 10 minutes, followed by 4 minutes of hold at 4°C. The PCR products were then electrophoresed for 1 hour in 1X TAE buffer in 1.2 per cent agarose gel stained with Ethidium bromide. The gel was visualized in the gel documenting unit using a UV transilluminator.\r\nIn vitro evaluation of effect of micronutrients and macro nutrients on the growth of H. oryzae. Effect of certain micro nutrients viz., copper sulphate, ferrous sulphate, manganese sulphate, and zinc sulphate and macro nutrients viz., calcium sulphate, magnesium sulphate, potassium sulphate and ammonium sulphate were tested against the growth of H. oryzae was studied by incorporating the nutrients separately in Czapek’s Dox medium. Both the micro and macro nutrients were tested at 0.1%,0.2% and 0.3% conc. (Ragavan, 2003). 15 ml of Czapek’s agar medium with respective micro nutrients was poured into sterile Petri plates. The medium without any amendment served as control. Each plate was inoculated aseptically with nine mm fungal disc obtained from the actively growing region of one week old culture of H. oryzae. The plates were incubated at room temperature (28±3°) and the diameter of the mycelial growth was recorded when the growth in the control plates touched the periphery and was expressed in mm.\r\nUsing the formula, the efficacy was expressed as a percentage inhibition over the control.\r\nPer cent Inhibition = C – T/ C ×100\r\nC – Mycelial growth in control, T – Mycelial growth in treatment\r\nRESULTS AND DISCUSSION \r\nCultural variability. Among the different media’s tested, potato dextrose agar showed maximum radial growth (88.90 mm) in all the five isolates then followed by host extract dextrose agar (87.50 mm). In PDA and MEA media, isolate HO-4 has shown slow growth. In CZA and HEA media, isolate HO-2 has shown slow growth. The results are in accordance with Arshad et al. (2013), wherein they recorded the maximum growth of pathogen on Potato dextrose agar with 57.80 mm and Kumari et al. (2015), found the maximum growth (90 mm) of different isolates on Potato dextrose agar media (Fig. 1& 2, Table 1 & 2).\r\nMorphological characterization. All the isolates studied showed significant differences in growth and colony characters. The variation in morphological characters of different isolates indicated that isolate HO-1 showed greyish black colour colony with mycelial cottony growth, HO-2 showed Light greyish colour with cottony growth, HO-3 showed Greyish black colour mycelial growth, HO-4 showed greyish white colony growth and HO-5 showed Greyish black colour colony growth. Margin of the isolates viz., HO-1, HO-3, HO-5 showed regular pattern and HO-2, HO-4 showed irregular pattern. HO-3, HO-5 has shown flat mycelia growth, where as HO-1, HO-2, HO-4 has shown cottony mycelial growth. Sporulation is observed in all the five isolates using light microscope (40X) magnification (Fig. 3).\r\nMolecular characterization. The full length ITS-1 rDNA region was amplified with ITS-1 (5’- TCCGTAGGTGAACCTGCG-3’) and ITS-4 (5’- TCCTCCGCTTATTGATATGC-3’) primers for the five isolates of H. oryzae. DNA amplicon was observed at the region 570 bp by checking the amplified products on 1.2% agarose gel electrophoresis and representative samples were sequenced (Fig. 4).\r\nPathogenicity test. Rice variety CO-39 is more susceptible to brown spot pathogen with a PDI of 32.16% at 14th day after inoculation followed by BPT-5204 with PDI of 25.78 and TN-1 with less PDI of 14.07 at 14th day after inoculation. Initially, small brown spots were appeared, later these spots enlarge and form oval shaped spots. These spots later coalesce and give dried appearance of leaves (Fig. 5, Table 3).\r\nIn vitro evaluation of effect of micronutrients on the growth of H. oryzae. The study revealed that, the micronutrients that are tested significantly inhibited the growth of the fungus in all the concentrations. Here, there is an increased inhibition of the growth was recorded with the increase in nutrient concentration. Among these nutrients, Zinc sulphate @ 0.3% conc. has recorded the maximum inhibition of 58.89 % over control, followed by copper sulphate, ferrous sulphate, and least inhibition is recorded by manganese sulphate. Among four micronutrients evaluated, highest per cent mean mycelial inhibition was recorded in Zinc sulphate (46.7%) and the least per cent mean mycelial inhibition was recorded in manganese sulphate (17.4%) (Fig. 6, Table 4 & Graph 1).\r\nIn vitro evaluation of effect of macronutrients on the growth of H. oryzae. The study revealed that, the macronutrients that are tested significantly inhibited the growth of the fungus in all the concentrations. Here, there was an increased inhibition of the growth recorded with the increase in nutrient concentration. Among these nutrients, potassium sulphate @ 0.3% conc. has been recorded to show maximum inhibition of 56.67 per cent over control, then followed by calcium sulphate, magnesium sulphate, and least inhibition is recorded by Ammonium sulphate. Among four macronutrients evaluated, highest per cent mean mycelial inhibition was recorded in potassium sulphate (47.4 %) and the least per cent mean mycelial inhibition was recorded in Ammonium sulphate (15.56 %) (Fig. 7, Table 5 & Graph 2).\r\nDISCUSSION \r\nIn this study, brown spot infected leaves were collected from five different locations of Tamil Nadu. The brown spot pathogen was isolated and characterized based on the cultural and morphological characters. The five isolates were categorized into 2 groups: grayish black with cottony growth and grayish black colony with white spots. Mycelium is brown in colour, branched and septate and it gives rise to conidiophores from which conidia arises. Monisha et al. (2019) have grouped Bipolaris oryzae into three categories: Isolate BO-1 was having greyish with cottony mycelium, where as isolates BO-2, 4, 5 were having a mixture of grey and white mycelium with fluffy growth and Isolate BO-3 have greyish cottony mycelium with white spots. Conidia are brown in colour, slightly curved and multi septate. Kumar et al., (2011) have grouped H. oryzae into four different categories based on cultural characters viz., black colour colony with suppressed growth, black with cottony growth of colony, black with fluffy colony growth and White with cottony growth. This was the first report by Kumar et al., (2011) on the black colony character of H. oryzae. Kumari et al. (2015) categorized 52 isolates into 5 groups: Black colony with fluffy growth, Black colony with suppressed growth, Grey and cottony growth, Grey and white cottony growth and white with cottony growth. Among the different media’s tested, potato dextrose agar showed maximum radial growth (88.90 mm) in all the five isolates. In pathogenicity test, among three different rice varieties, CO-39 is recorded to have more PDI which indicates more susceptible to brown spot when compared to BPT-5204 and TN-1. Next to CO-39, BPT-5204 is susceptible to brown spot pathogen and TN-1 is less susceptible than other two varieties. For the pathogenicity test, symptom development of adapted and non-adapted Bipolaris spp. was assessed on the resistant and susceptible cultivars of rice and corn at 3, 5 and 7 days after inoculation. Lesion size, lesion density and percentage disease severity were also taken for the test (Amorio and Cumagun 2017). This study revealed that all the nutrients which are tested have shown significant inhibition in the growth of the fungus at all concentrations when they are compared to control. Also, there is an enhanced inhibition recorded with the increase in the concentrations of the nutrients tested. Among the tested micro nutrients, zinc sulphate recorded maximum mycelial inhibition at 0.3% conc. with 58.89 per cent inhibition over control. It was followed by copper sulphate, ferrous sulphate, and manganese sulphate in the decreasing order of inhibition. With regard to the macronutrients, Potassium sulphate recorded maximum mycelial inhibition at 0.3% conc. with 56.67 per cent inhibition over control. It was followed by calcium sulphate, magnesium sulphate, and Ammonium sulphate in the decreasing order of inhibition. Addition of Ca, Mn, Cu, Zn, Fe, B and Mo at different concentrations against the pathogens of rice has showed the reduction in fungal growth (Madhiyazhagan, 1989). The inhibitory effect of calcium sulphate which is against different rice pathogens under in vitro conditions was also reported (Eswaran and Narayanasamy, 2000; Ragavan, 2003). As we observed in the present study, they have also reported the increased inhibition with increase in concentration of ZnSO4. From different macro-micro nutrients, ZnSO4 @ 3000 ppm has been shown the maximum inhibition of growth of mycelium, mycelial dry weight and also germination of spore. Silicon based nutrients like Potassium Silicate, Calcium Silicate and Sodium Silicate, potassium silicate @ 3000 ppm has been recorded the maximum inhibition of mycelial dry weight (Jaiganesh, 2019).\r\n','Naga Hari Chandana K., Karthiba L., Saraswathi R. and Ramanathan A. (2022). Isolation, Characterization and Effect of Micro - Macronutrients on the growth of Helminthosporium oryzae. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 14(3): 599-607.'),(5330,'136','Influence of Pruning Intensities and Foliar Spray of Nutrients on Yield and Physical Parameters of Pomegranate (Punica granatum L.) cv. Bhagwa','Yuvraj Yadav, Rajnee Sharma and T.R. Sharma','102 Influence of Pruning Intensities and Foliar Spray of Nutrients on Yield and Physical Parameters of Pomegranate (Punica granatum L.) cv. Bhagwa Rajnee Sharma.pdf','',1,'The field investigation was carried out to study the efficacy of different pruning intensities and foliar spray of nutrients on yield and physical parameters of pomegranate (Punica granatum L.) cv. Bhagwa at Fruit Research Station, Imaliya, Department of Horticulture, JNKVV, Jabalpur during 2020-21. Pomegranate is a light loving plant thus enough light should be available or required in the tree canopy for quality fruit production which can be achieved by training and pruning and has significant impact on fruit production. In any fruit crop, for optimum fruiting and quality fruit production, the canopy management of the tree is prerequisite that deals with the development and maintenance of their structure in relation to the size and shape. The basic idea of canopy management (pruning) is to manipulate the tree vigour and use maximum available light and temperature to increase productivity, fruit quality and also to minimize the adverse effects of the weather and consequently, pruning intensities significantly influence the yield and physical characters. The maximum number of fruits/shoot (3.14), fruit set (45.19%) and yield (14.43 kg/plant) were noted with the pruning at 20 cm whereas, the superior quality of fruit with respect to the maximum fruit length (8.68 cm), fruit diameter (7.70 cm), fruit weight (284.36 g), number of arils/fruit (536.63), arils weight (179.00g) and minimum Peel: Aril (0.59) were significantly recorded under the 60cm pruning. Application of nutrients also bring out the significantly changes in the yield and physical quality of the fruits. The maximum number of fruits/shoot (2.84), fruit set (42.25%), yield (14.55 kg/plant), fruit weight (275.46 g), fruit length (7.79 cm), fruit diameter (7.73 cm), number of arils/fruit (514.90), arils weight/fruit (174.67) and minimum Peel: Aril (0.58) were significantly recorded with foliar spray of Urea 2% + Zn 0.4% + B 0.4%. As regarded, the interaction effect between pruning intensities and foliar application of nutrients significant effect observed in yield attributes and on the physical parameters of fruit. The higher yield of 18.93 kg/plant, with fruit set (48.15%) and number of fruit set per shoot (3.36/ shoot) were recorded under treatment 20 cm pruning along with foliar spray of Urea (2%) + Zn (0.4%) + B (0.4%). Whereas, maximum fruit weight (302.93 g), fruit length (8.52cm), fruit diameter (8.30 cm), number of arils/fruit (578.76), arils weight/fruit (197.33 g) and minimum Peel: Aril (0.54) were recorded under 60 cm pruning intensity along with foliar spray Urea (2%) + (Zn 0.4%) + B (0.4%). ','Physical characteristics, pruning intensity, pomegranate, yield','All the pruning intensities and nutrient application of treatments were found better than control in terms of yield and physical characteristics of fruit. The yield parameters of the fruits was found superior with the 20 cm pruning intensity and the nutrient application (2% Urea + 0.4% Zn + 0.4% B) individually. Among the interaction the combination of both the factors i.e., 20 cm pruning intensity along with the application of 2% Urea + 0.4% Zn + 0.4% B was found superior. The physical parameters of the fruits was found superior with the 60 cm pruning intensity and the nutrient application (2% Urea + 0.4% Zn + 0.4% B) individually. Among the interaction the combination of both the factors i.e., 60 cm pruning intensity along with the application of 2% Urea + 0.4% Zn + 0.4% B was found superior. Hence it should be practiced in pomegranate crop to produce fruits with better quality, good size and weight and better colour with excellent taste.','INTRODUCTION\r\nThe pomegranate (Punica granatum L.) is an economically important marketable fruit crop belongs to the family Punicaceae and it is diploid with chromosome number, 2n=2x=16 (Kumar et al., 2018). It is originated from Iran or Persia region. Pomegranate is mostly consumed as fresh arils and on a small scale it is used for juice, syrup, jelly, processed arils, wine etc. There has been marked shift towards the consumption of pomegranate globally looking to its several nutritive, nutraceutical and medicinal properties (Shastri and Pawar 2014). Maharashtra is the leading producer of pomegranate followed by Karnataka, Andhra Pradesh, Gujarat and Tamil Nadu (Chandra et al., 2010). India is the world’s leading producer of pomegranate with nearly 50% of world’s production. The total area under this fruit at present accounted for 131 thousand hectares with an annual production of 1346 thousand metric tons and productivity of 10.3 MT/ha in India and in MP, pomegranate is covering an area of 9675.20 ha with the production of 114266.29 tons with an average productivity of 11.81 tons/ha (Anonymous, 2018). Three flowering seasons i.e., Ambe Bahar (January - February), Mrig Bahar (June - July), and Hast Bahar (September - October) have been observed in India (Radha and Medhew 2007). Ambe Bahar is mostly common and adopted by the growers due to higher yield and better quality of fruits. The flowers are borne on current year’s growth and found mostly in clusters either terminally or in axils of the leaves. Three types of colorful orange-red flowers viz. male flowers (bell-shaped), hermaphrodite flowers (vase-shape) and intermediate flowers are found (Radha and Medhew 2007). The main growing shoot inhibit the growth of other shoots, when the shoots are pruned, the growth of other shoots can be encouraged and made strong, give the proper shape to the plant. Pruning is necessary to allow room for new growth and gives proper shape to the plants, removing of weak or old branches, crisscrossed branches and dry diseased twigs and suckers, divert the energy into that part which are capable to produce more photosynthates for development of healthy flowers (Sharma and Chouhan 2004). Pruning is the most important practices for successful and sustainable cultivation of the fruit crop including pomegranate. Pruning improves light penetration and air circulation, which results in better fruit quality and also in minimize the pest’s allele and disease spread (Sharma and Chauhan 2004). Orchard floor management practices help in also a better light interception, regulation of soil erosion, reduced surface run-off and suppress weed population (Warade et al., 2008). The percent fruit set increased significantly with decrease in pruning severity (Gill and Bal 2006) and reduction in total yield of fruits with the increase in pruning severity (Yang et al., 2009) heavy pruning registered the lowest fruit set in Sharma and Sing 2018, in Pomegranate, Kumar et al. 2005, in Sharbati, Flordasun and Prabhat cvs. of peaches and Sharma et al. (2017) in apricot. Pomegranate plant requires an accurate combination of the nutrients for the quantitative and qualitative fruit production. Its productivity and fruit quality can be enhanced by suitable and adequate supply of nutrients, balance nutrition is necessary both to the young and bearing trees for better growth, optimum and healthy fruit production (Dutta et al. 2000). Nitrogen is an important nutrient for the vegetative growth of the plant, and the deficiency of nitrogen resulted light green to yellow foliage over entire tree. Boron deficiency resulted serious issue such as growth cease at the growing point and poor development of roots, premature shading of male flowers and impaired pollen tube development leading to poor fruit setting and fruit cracking (Singh et al., 2004). Zinc deficiency resulted reduce leaf and shoot growth, reduction in flowering and fruit setting (Wiedenhoeft, 2006). Looking to above fact and importance of pruning and nutrient present studies were conducted with the object to see the effect of pruning intensity and foliar application of nutrient effect on Pomegranate cv. Bhagva. \r\nMATERIAL AND METHODS\r\nThe present investigation was conducted during the year 2020-21 at Fruit Research Station, Imaliya, Department of Horticulture, JNKVV, Jabalpur. (M.P.). Four levels of pruning intensities viz. 0, 20, 40 & 60 cm and five nutrients level of Urea + Zn + B were applied alone or in combinations. The randomly selected plants were tagged and as per the treatments the shoots were pruned in the month of November at 0 cm (unpruned), 20 cm, 40 cm, and 60 cm levels with the help of secateur. As per treatments the first foliar spray of nutrient was applied in the month of December and the second was 30 days after the first spray i.e., in the month of January. Without spray and no pruning fruit plants were taken as control plant. The twenty treatments were replicated thrice in Asymmetrical Factorial RBD. Single tree was considered as an experimental unit and total of 60 plants randomly selected and tagged for the purpose of study. Digital vernier calipers was used for measuring the value of fruit length and fruit diameter in cm. Fruit weight was measured by electronic balance in gram. The percentage of fruit set from the tagged ten shoots was calculated as total number of fruit set per shoot divided by total number of flowers per shoot. The total number of fruits per shoot were counted from ten randomly tagged shoots and average fruits per shoot were computed. Fresh fruits were picked out from the tree as per treatment and weighed with the use of electric balance. Arils were manually separated from the randomly selected five fruits and the total number of arils in each fruit was counted numerically. Arils of the five fruits were extracted and weighted using a digital analytical balance. The average value was computed. Pomegranate fruit was weighed and cut into pieces with the help of stainless-steel knife. The peel and aril were separated by hands. All the peel and arils of the fruit were weighed separately with the help of an electronic weighing machine. The peel: aril ratio was calculated by weight of the peel/fruit divided by weight of the arils/fruit.\r\nRESULT AND DISCUSSION\r\nFruit yield is the important attributes for growers to get the maximum profit per unit area. Pruning intensities significantly influence the yield and the maximum number of fruit set (45.19%), fruits/shoot (3.14) and yield (14.43 kg/plant) was noted with the pruning at 20 cm. Pruning intensities significantly influence the yield characters. The results are in accordance with the earlier findings that percent fruit set increased significantly with decrease in pruning severity (Gill and Bal 2006) and reduction in total yield of fruits with the increase in pruning severity (Yang et al., 2009) heavy pruning registered the lowest fruit set as reported by Sharma and Singh (2018). This might be due to pomegranate plant bear fruits in current season growth and light pruning promote a greater number of new spurs which increase flowering and fruit set percentage. This result was agreement with Bajpai et al. (1973) in pomegranate, Dhapute et al. (2018) in Custard Apple, Bhuva et al. (2018) in Pomegranate. Whereas, the superior quality of fruit with respect to the maximum fruit length (8.68 cm), fruit diameter (7.70 cm), fruit weight (284.36 g), number of arils/fruit (536.63), arils weight (179.00g) and minimum Peel: Aril (0.59) were significantly recorded under the 60cm pruning. The superior quality of fruits with respect to the maximum value of the physical parameters found might be due to deeper the pruning resulted a lesser number of fruits while, the more availability of metabolites and nutrients leads to increase physical characters of fruit. The results are agreement with the findings of Gupta and Gill (2015) in Ber, Choudhary et al. (2018) in Custard, Hiremath et al. (2018) in Pomegranate and Ghatul et al. (2019) in pomegranate. \r\nThe foliar application of the nutrients influences the yield characters of the plant. The maximum number of fruit set (42.25%), fruits/shoot (2.84) and yield (14.55 kg/plant) were significantly recorded with foliar spray of Urea 2% + Zn 0.4% + B 0.4% as well as nutrients bring out the significantly changes in the physical compositions of the fruits and the maximum fruit weight (275.46 g), fruit length (7.79 cm), fruit diameter (7.73 cm), number of arils (514.90), arils weight/fruit (174.67) and minimum Peel: Aril (0.58) were observed with foliar spray of Urea 2% + Zn 0.4% + B 0.4%). The improvement in yield as well as physical characteristics is due to optimum supply of proper plant nutrients in right amount during the entire crop growth period causing vigorous vegetative development of the plants and ultimately production of more food material in fruits. Application of nutrients play a key role in metabolic activity, sugar translocation, advancement in flowering and highest ratio of perfect flowers: male flowers, highest fruit set percentage. This result was conformity with the findings of Hasani et al. (2012); Jagtap et al. (2013) in acid lime and Gurjar et al. (2015) in mango.\r\nThe interaction between pruning intensities and foliar application of nutrients had significant effect on the yield and yield attributes. The maximum number of fruits/shoot (3.82), fruit set (48.15%) and yield (18.93 kg/plant) were significantly recorded with pruning at 20 cm in combination with foliar spray of Urea 2% + Zn 0.4% + B 0.4%. Whereas, the maximum fruit length (8.52 cm), fruit diameter (8.30 cm), fruit weight (302.93g), number of arils/fruit (578.79) weight of arils/fruit (197.33g) and minimum Peel: Aril (0.54) were recorded with pruning at 60 cm + Urea 2% + Zn 0.4% + B 0.4%. The improvement in yield as well as physical characteristics is due to optimum supply of proper plant nutrients in right amount during the entire crop growth period causing vigorous vegetative development of the plants and ultimately production of more food material in fruits. Proper supply of nutrients throughout the growing period sustained the balance nutrient availability, wider C:N ratio and mobilization of metabolic activity, sugar translocation, advancement in flowering and highest ratio of perfect flowers: male flowers, highest fruit set percentage. Similar findings were also reported by Jagtap et al. (2013) in acid lime and Gurjar et al. (2015) in mango. Pruning intensities significantly influence the yield characters. This might be due to pomegranate plant bear fruits in current season growth and light pruning promote a greater number of new spurs which increase flowering and fruit set percentage. Bajpai et al. (1973); Bhuva et al. (2018) in Pomegranate. The superior quality of fruits with respect to the maximum value of the physical parameters found might be due to deeper the pruning resulted a lesser number of fruits while, the more availability of metabolites and nutrients leads to increase physical characters of fruit. Hiremath et al. (2018); Ghatul et al. (2019) also reported similar findings in Pomegranate. \r\n','Yuvraj Yadav, Rajnee Sharma and T.R. Sharma (2022). Influence of Pruning Intensities and Foliar Spray of Nutrients on Yield and Physical Parameters of Pomegranate (Punica granatum L.) cv. Bhagwa. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 14(3): 608-612.'),(5331,'136','Effect of Salicylic Acid and Biochar on Nutrient content and Uptake of chickpea (Cicer arietinum L.) under Rainfed condition','Manish Tomar, P.C. Chaplot, J. Choudhary, R.H. Meena, Ritesh Patidar and Ashok Kumar Samota','103 Effect of Salicylic Acid and Biochar on Nutrient content and Uptake of chickpea (Cicer arietinum L.) under Rainfed condition Manish Tomar.pdf','',1,'A field experiment was conducted at Instructional Agronomy Farm, Rajasthan College of Agriculture, MPUAT, Udaipur (Rajasthan) during rabi, 2021–2022 to assess the effect of salicylic acid and biochar on nutrient content and uptake of chickpea (Cicer arietinum L.) under rainfed condition. The experiment was comprised of a combination of 4 concentrations of salicylic acid (water spray, 50, 100, 150 ppm) and 3 levels of biochar (control, 1, 2 t ha-1) thereby making 12 treatment combinations replicated thrice in FRBD. The foliar spray of salicylic acid was done at the flower initiation and pod filling stage. The experiment results revealed that with foliar applied salicylic acid at 100 ppm chickpea crop accumulated the highest quantum of nutrients i.e., nitrogen, phosphorus and potassium by seed (64.28, 6.58 and 11.47 kg ha-1), haulm (27.25, 9.21 and 59.49 kg ha-1) and total (91.91, 15.79 and 70.97 kg ha-1). Biochar application at 2 t ha-1 recorded significantly higher quantum of nitrogen, phosphorus and potassium uptake by seed (69.47, 7.03 and 12.18 kg ha-1), haulm (29.03, 9.78 and 62.75 kg ha-1) and total (98.50, 16.82 and 74.93 kg ha-1).','Salicylic acid, biochar, chickpea, foliar, rainfed','Based on the above summarized results, it can be concluded that the foliar application of salicylic acid increases nutrient uptake due to higher extraction of nutrients and their translocation while biochar enhanced nutrient content and uptake of chickpea crop by improving nutrient availability in soil due to its positive impact on soil physcio-chemical and biological properties.','INTRODUCTION\r\nOur country is predominantly vegetarian and pulses are the main source of quality protein. Chickpea (Cicer arietinum L.) known as “king of pulses” is a most important winter (rabi) season legume with high acceptability and wider use in nutritional food basket. India is a premier chickpea growing country in the world, accounting for an area of 10.17 m ha and production of 11.35 m t with average productivity of 1116 kg ha-1 (DAC&FW, 2020). Chickpea is typically grown in marginal and rainfed regions, and it tends to be sensitive to abiotic stresses such as drought, low and high temperatures (Mantri et al., 2010). \r\nIn recent years, the use of bioregulators has opened new vistas for enhancing the productivity of several crops under stress conditions. Among these, salicylic acid is one of the plant hormones produced by the plant naturally. It plays an important role in the growth and development of the plant, physiologically it helps in increasing the plant’s response to biotic and abiotic stress conditions (Mohamed et al., 2020). Its diverse physiological role in plants includes thermogenesis, flower induction, nutrient uptake, stomatal movement and photosynthesis (Hayat et al., 2013). Generally, a high concentration of it reduces tolerance to abiotic stress whereas a low concentration increases drought tolerance (Miura and Tada 2014).\r\nBiochar is a porous, carbon rich material prepared through pyrolysis process from biomass. In absence of oxygen, biomass is subjected to thermo-chemical conversion at a temperature range of 350°C to 500°C (Sakhiya et al., 2020). Its application to soil improves soil\'s physical, chemical and biological properties (Somerville et al., 2020) which provides favourable conditions for living microbiota in the soil and increases the soil carbon pool, improves soil tilth (Glaser et al., 2002) and nutrient availability (Hossain et al., 2020). It can be the solution to the energy, carbon storage, and ecosystem function (Lori et al., 2013).\r\nMATERIAL AND METHODS\r\nThe field experiment was conducted at Instructional Farm of Agronomy, Department of Agronomy, Rajasthan College of Agriculture, MPUAT, Udaipur during the rabi season of 2021-22. The soil of the experimental field was clay loam in texture, slightly alkaline in reaction (pH 8.1), low in available nitrogen (261.24 kg ha-1) and medium in available phosphorus (17.48 kg ha-1) while high in available potassium status (296.45 kg ha-1) and the site falls under agro-climatic zone IV a (Sub-Humid Southern Plains and Aravalli hills). The experiment was conducted in a factorial randomized block design (FRBD) with twelve treatments comprising four doses of salicylic acid viz., water spray, 50, 100 and 150 ppm and three doses of biochar viz., control, 1 and 2 t ha-1 and replicated thrice. Chickpea crop variety JAKI-9218 was sown on 1st November 2021 at a seed rate of 80 kg ha-1. There is no irrigation applied during the crop growth duration other than pre-sowing irrigation. Recommended doses of Nitrogen and Phosphorus i.e., 20 and 40 kg ha-1 were supplied through Urea and SSP. Foliar application of salicylic acid was done at flower initiation and pod filling stage of chickpea while biochar application and incorporation in soil were done before the sowing of the crop.\r\nNutrient content and uptake estimation. For estimation of nitrogen, phosphorus and potassium content plant samples were collected at the time of harvest of crop and oven dried at 70oC for 72 hours to obtain constant weight. Fully dried samples were grinded to a fine powder and nutrient content in seed and haulm were estimated as per the following method.\r\nUptake of nitrogen, phosphorus and potassium by seed as well as haulm was estimated by using the following formula.\r\nNutrient uptake (kg ha-1) =\r\n \r\nRESULTSAND DISCUSSION\r\nEffect of Salicylic acid. Foliar application of salicylic acid at varying concentrations failed to bring about a significant variation in nitrogen, phosphorus and potassium content in seed and haulm of chickpea but the crop accumulated the highest quantum of nutrients i.e., nitrogen, phosphorus and potassium by seed (64.28, 6.58 and 11.47 kg ha-1), haulm (27.25, 9.21 and 59.49 kg ha-1) and total uptake (91.54, 15.79 and 70.97 kg ha-1) by crop with the application of salicylic acid at 100 ppm over application of salicylic acid at 50 ppm and water spray. The magnitude of increase in total nitrogen, phosphorus and potassium uptake by crop was 11.34, 11.28, 11.10 per cent over foliar application of salicylic acid at 50 ppm and 26.75, 25.81, 24.12 per cent over control, respectively. Further, the increase in salicylic acid from 100 to 150 ppm though decreased nutrient uptake but failed to record statistical significance.\r\nThe positive influence of the foliar application of salicylic acid on nutrient uptake by seed and haulm seems on account of increased plant growth due to secretion of growth promoting substances which might have maintained an adequate supply of metabolites for enhancing root growth, development and their functional activities (Lian et al., 2000; Manoj 2021). The improvement in dry matter production by plants due to salicylic acid application might have promoted root growth and development, which might have resulted in greater secretion of organic acid thus increasing the availability of nutrients (Bowya and Balachandar 2020) thereby, greater extraction of nutrients from the soil and their efficient translocation in the plant system. Thus improvement in total biomass production with the application of salicylic acid results in higher uptake of nitrogen, phosphorus and potassium by seed, haulm and total uptake by the crop. The results obtained are similar to the findings of Kuttimani and Velayutham (2011). At higher concentrations, salicylic acid seems to induce stomatal closure, decrease chlorophyll and carotenoid contents (Fariduddin et al., 2003; Moharekar et al., 2003) and may therefore be expected to affect the rate of photosynthesis (Poor and Tari 2012) hence the negative impact of higher rate of salicylic acid leads to lesser nutrient uptake by the crop. \r\nEffect of Biochar. The results showed that biochar application significantly improved the nitrogen status of seed and haulm. It can be attributed to their efficient extraction/translocation due to an increase in root ramification/activities as biochar plays a vital role in maintaining physico-chemical and biological properties of soils. Application of increasing rate of biochar up to 2 t ha-1 significantly increased uptake of nitrogen, phosphorus and potassium by seed (69.47, 7.03 and 12.18 kg ha-1), haulm (29.03, 9.78 and 62.75 kg ha-1) and total uptake (98.50, 16.82 and 74.93 kg ha-1) by crop. The magnitude of increase in total nitrogen, phosphorus and potassium uptake with the application of 2 t biochar ha-1 was to the tune of 17.10, 15.84, 13.74 and 41.84, 37.64, 34.52 per cent, respectively over application of biochar at 1 t ha-1 and control. Biochar increases the nutrient uptake because of mineralization of nutrients i.e., increasing nutrient availability (Hossain et al., 2020), modification in cation exchange sites and also improving the biological environment of soil. An increase in nitrogen uptake by crop may be attributed to the improvement in soil microbiota that increases biological nitrogen fixation as well as organic forms of nitrogen in soil like amines, amino acids and amino sugars which become bioavailable to plants (Younis et al., 2016). The significant improvement in phosphorus uptake with biochar addition seems to be on account of increased solubility of fixed phosphorus due to a higher microbial population (Inal et al., 2015).\r\n','Manish Tomar, P.C. Chaplot, J. Choudhary, R.H. Meena, Ritesh Patidar and Ashok Kumar Samota (2022). Effect of Salicylic Acid and Biochar on Nutrient content and Uptake of chickpea (Cicer arietinum L.) under Rainfed Condition. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 14(3): 613-616.'),(5332,'136','Optimization of Dietary Energy and Protein Levels for Reproductive Performance of Native Chicken Variety (Aseel cross)','S. Bakyaraj, S.T. Selvan, S. Vairamuthu, L. Radhakrishnan, P. Shamsudeen and P. Vijayakumar','104 Optimization of Dietary Energy and Protein Levels for Reproductive Performance of Native Chicken Variety (Aseel cross) S. Bakyaraj.pdf','',1,'Native chicken production is becoming popular in recent years. Energy and protein requirements of Aseel varieties and its crosses could be different from those of commercial layers. Recent rise in cost of feed ingredients included in poultry diets leads to find cost effective measures in feeding. The aim of the study was to optimize dietary energy and protein requirements for reproductive performance in native chicken variety (Aseel cross). Nine experimental diets were formulated with three different energy levels (2400,2300,2200 kcal ME) each with three protein levels (14,13,12 %) and fed to the birds from 21-60 weeks of age. Fertility, Hatchability and Embryonic mortality were calculated and analysed from 29-60 weeks. The effect of interaction due to dietary energy and protein had no significance (P>0.05) on fertility, hatchability on total eggs and hatchability on fertile eggs from 29 to 52 weeks of age. After 52 weeks, low energy treatment group (2200 ME Kcal/Kg and 12%) had significantly (P<0.05) lower fertility and hatchability than other treatment groups. The embryonic mortality during incubation had no effect due to interaction of energy and protein levels upto 48 weeks of age. Though there was no significant effect, it was concluded that optimum level of energy and protein for reproductive performance is 2400 ME Kcal/Kg and 12 % CP diet.','Native chicken variety, Energy, Protein, Fertility, hatchability and Embryonic Mortality','Interaction effect of varying levels of dietary energy and protein had no significant effect on fertility, hatchability on total eggs and hatchability on fertile eggs from 29 to 52 weeks of age. Similarly, the main effects of different energy and protein levels were insignificant up to 56 weeks of age. Different dietary effects revealed significance after 52 weeks of age are due to either decrease or cessation of egg production in low energy (2200 ME Kcal/Kg) with different protein (14, 13, 12%) groups (T7, T8 and T9). The embryonic mortality in different stages of incubation due to different diets were inconsistent to make any conclusion. From the results it was concluded that optimum reproductive performance was achieved in high energy and low protein group (2400 ME Kcal/Kg and 12 % CP) during the layer phase of 21-60 weeks in native chicken variety. Further studies are warranted on various levels of energy and protein on extended period after 60 weeks of laying phase to reduce the feed cost without affecting reproductive performance in this native chicken variety. ','INTRODUCTION\r\nAseel is one of the well-known indigenous chicken breeds of India and is known for its known for its pugnacity, majestic gait, high stamina, and dogged fighting qualities (Singh, 2001). Indigenous chicken production is becoming popular due to higher demand for their meat and eggs because of its flavour, low fat content and non-usage of antimicrobial growth promoters. The purchasing power and growing population increases demand of native chickens particularly higher in urban areas and cities.\r\nAt present condition in India, egg production grew at the rate of 6.16% annually from 2008-09 to 2018-19 and 8.51% in 2019 with a total of 103.32 billion eggs produced in the year 2018-19. The per capita availability of eggs in the country was 79 eggs per annum in 2019 (BAHS 2019). Native chickens contributed about 14.4% to the total egg production of the country in the year 2016.\r\nThe College of Poultry Production and Management at Hosur (CPPM), is developing a chicken variety from the local Aseel chicken population and its crosses. With the rising cost of nutrients, an appropriate energy and protein level is most important factor to reduce feed cost per unit of weight gain (NRC, 1994). Non-availability of specific feed and higher feed cost are the major constraints faced by the farmers rearing native chickens intensively and an optimized energy level maybe chosen while formulating diet for male and female Aseel native chickens (Kumaravel et al., 2021).\r\nFertility and Embryonic mortality during incubation period is an indicator of deficiency or inadequacy of the breeder diets (Leeson et al., 1979). Aminafshar et al. (2015) that energy level and type can be effective on changing blood lipid metabolites such as cholesterol and triglyceride. Selection of appropriate levels of protein and energy is required without affecting the fertility and hatchability of native chickens. Hence, the present study was carried out to optimize dietary energy and protein requirements for reproductive performance in the newly developing native chicken variety at CPPM, Hosur.\r\nMATERIALS AND METHODS\r\nExperimental birds. A total of 486 females of native chicken variety were received from CPPM farm complex at 21 weeks of age and divided in to nine dietary treatments. Each treatment was given with six replicates and in total 54 replicates were assigned to present study. In each replicate two male birds were distributed in the male female ratio of 1:5 of the same age group. The experimental design was 3 × 3 factorial design. The study period started during January, 2021 and ended on September, 2021. Birds were reared under deep litter system of management following standard management practices. The birds in each treatment experimental feed and ad libitum water was provided. This study was carried out at College of Poultry Production and Management at Hosur (CPPM), Tamil Nadu Veterinary and Animal Sciences University, India.\r\nExperiment diets (21-60 weeks of age). During the study period from 21 to 60 weeks of age, the nine dietary treatments with six replicates of nine birds in each. In each replicate two male birds were distributed in the male female ratio 1:5. Nine experimental diets were formulated with three different energy levels (2400, 2300, 2200 kcal ME) each with three protein levels (14, 13, 12 %) and fed to the female birds throughout the experimental period from 21-60 weeks of age. Feed consumption was recorded on weekly basis. The ingredient and calculated nutrient composition of diets for breeder phases are given in the Table 1.\r\nCollection of Data. Eggs were collected twice daily from the experimental groups and the collected eggs were sorted, fumigated and stored for seven days throughout the study period of 29 to 60 weeks of age. Appropriately labelled hatching eggs were set in setter and transferred to hatcher on 18th day on weekly basis from each treatment group. Percent fertility and hatchability were calculated using the formula:\r\n \r\nPer cent hatchability on total eggs \r\n = \r\nPer cent hatchability on fertile eggs \r\n = \r\nAll unhatched eggs were inspected for embryonic development and the embryo mortality were described as Early (EEM), Mid (MEM), Late (LEM) embryonic mortality and unhatched chicks after day 21. All the values were calculated in percentage.\r\nStatistical analysis. Recorded data was subjected to Statistical analysis using SPSS (2018) software for two-way ANOVA and level of significance was measured using Tukey’s test following the procedure of Snedecor and Cochran (1994).\r\nRESULTS AND DISCUSSION\r\nFertility. Fertility rate among the different dietary energy and protein groups is presented in the Table 2. Results revealed that there were no significant effects due to interaction of varying levels of energy and protein on fertility during the trial period of 29-60 weeks. The lesser values of fertility in T7, T8, T9 during 53-56 weeks and T8 and T9 during 57-60 weeks were either due to decreased or zero egg production during that phase. The birds might have entered in to moulting due to feeding of low energy diets (2200 ME Kcal/Kg) or depletion of body reserves. Similar trend was observed by Pearson and Herron (1981) that the consistent low rate of egg production by lowest energy allowance of 1.52 MJ AME/day (363KCal) was due to inadequate allowance to meet energy requirements of the bird’s egg production. Significant (P<0.05) effect due to different levels of energy was found in high energy treatment than medium and low energy treatment groups after 52 weeks of age. The same trend was observed in different protein level treatment groups.\r\nHatchability on total egg set basis. The results of hatchability on total egg set basis due to different dietary treatments are presented in Table 3. The interaction of protein and energy levels did not have any influence over the hatchability on total egg set basis throughout the trial period from 29 weeks to 52 weeks. But during 53 to 56 weeks and 57 to 60 weeks, T4 (86.1 % and 77.47%) showed significant (P<0.05) effect on hatchability (TES) than T9 (47.12% and 15.91%). Though other treatment groups showed difference in hatchability, they were not significant whereas other treatment groups except T8 (47.05%) were significantly different from T9 (15.91%) group during 57-60 week period.\r\nThese results are in contrast with the findings of Saleh et al. (2017) who found that poor and best hatchability was observed on high energy with low protein (2800 ME Kcal/Kg and 14% CP) diet and high energy with high protein (2800 ME Kcal/Kg and 18% CP) diet respectively in FUNAAB alpha hens (Improved variety). The reason could be due to low productivity of our variety chickens, the energy and protein was sufficient to produce fertile eggs and good hatchability. Significant (P<0.05) hatchability difference noticed during 53-56 and 57-60 week periods were due to birds had a pause or almost ceased to produce after 52 weeks of age and more of infertile eggs in the low energy and low protein treatment group (2200 ME Kcal/Kg and 12% CP) were observed.\r\nNo effects on fertility and hatchability of total eggs set was found for the different energy treatment groups from 29-56 weeks but 57-60 week period shown significantly lower hatchability (44.47%) in low energy (2200 ME Kcal/Kg) than medium (2300 ME Kcal/Kg) and high energy (2400 ME Kcal/Kg) treatment groups. The results are in agreement with the Van Emous et al. (2015), who reported that the breeders fed high metabolizable energy diet showed an increased hatchability of fertile eggs compared to birds fed low metabolizable energy diet during second phase of lay (45-60 weeks). Similar trend was observed in different protein levels that only during 57-60 week period high protein diet (14%) had significant effect on hatchability (75.23% vs 55.04 %) compared to low CP (12%) diet. \r\nHatchability on fertile egg set basis. The results of hatchability on fertile egg set are presented in Table 4. There was no effect due to interaction of dietary energy and protein levels during the entire period on hatchability of fertile eggs set except during 57-60 week period where T9 had significantly lower hatchability (19.44%) than other treatment groups T1 to T7 (87.57 % to 81.94 %). A poor hatchability was noticed in low energy and low protein diet groups after 56 weeks of age. This result was due to very less number of egg production and more of infertile eggs in those treatment group (2200 ME Kcal/Kg and 12 % CP) after 52 weeks of age. Conversely, Sun and Coon (2005) reported that egg production was not affected in breeders fed a high energy and low energy diet (2,970 vs 2,816 ME Kcal/Kg) during the entire laying period. The poor results in the present study might be due to the energy levels which was very low when compared to their high and low energy levels.\r\nThere was a difference of 60% hatchability between T9 and other treatment groups both in total egg set (TES) and fertile egg set (FES) basis after 56 weeks of age. These data indicate that the major effect of low dietary energy and CP on hatchability is in fact related to production and fertility. This is observed by the lack of difference in embryonic mortality in various stages of incubation. High energy diet with low CP diet resulted in improved hatchability on TES and FES in the experimental period upto 56 weeks of age. Similar to this findings, Lopez and Leeson (1995) reported an increased fertility and hatchability of total eggs set and decreased embryonic mortality during the entire laying period when birds received a low CP.\r\nNo significant effect was noticed on hatchability of FES due to different energy levels from 29 weeks to 56 weeks whereas 57-60 week period showed significantly lower hatchability (52.77%) in the low energy treatment (2200 ME Kcal/Kg) group than medium (2300 ME Kcal/Kg) and high energy (2400 ME Kcal/Kg) groups (83.43% and 84.89%). Anne and Herron (1981) also reported that hatchability decreases at higher protein allowance combined with decreased energy allowance.\r\nSimilarly, different protein levels had no impact over the percentage of hatchability on FES. Sometimes the hatchability percentage in the birds fed low CP diets was little higher and comparable to the high protein diets up to 52 weeks of age. From 57-60 week period onwards high CP diets had significantly higher hatchability than low CP diets (12%). Though there was no significant difference in hatchability during 53-56 weeks and hatchability started decreasing from 53 weeks of age in low energy and low protein treatment groups. The results of Lopez and Leeson (1995) that the birds fed lower dietary protein showed consistent improvement in hatchability of eggs throughout the 40 wk trial period and the major advantage of low protein diets is improving fertility without affecting hatchability\r\nEmbryonic Mortality\r\nEarly embryonic mortality. The results for embryonic mortality and unhatched chicks for the trial (29-60 weeks) are presented in Tables 5-8. From 29 to 48 weeks of age there was no significant effect due to interaction between energy and protein levels on embryonic mortality. During 49-52 weeks of age low energy and protein group (2200 ME Kcal/Kg and CP 12%) had significantly lower early embryonic mortality than other treatment groups T1 and T5. Again from 53- 60 weeks of age, there was no significant effect due to interaction of energy and protein levels on embryonic mortality. In the similar manner, early embryonic mortality was significantly (P<0.05) higher (3.30%) in high (2400 ME Kcal/Kg) energy treatment diets than low energy (2200 ME Kcal/Kg) diets (2.27%) only during 49-52 weeks of age. Though this is in contrast with the reports of Saleh et al. (2017) that the early embryonic mortality was not affected by the high energy with low protein (2800 ME Kcal/Kg and 14% CP) diet and high energy with high protein (2800 ME Kcal/Kg and 18% CP) diet, the effect was noticed for a sheet period of four weeks. Different protein levels had no effect on early embryonic mortality for the whole experimental period from 29 weeks to 60 weeks.\r\nMid embryonic mortality. Effect of interaction of different energy and protein levels on mid embryonic mortality was not significant upto 52 weeks of age and thereafter T7 and T1, T6 and T8 had significantly higher mid embryonic mortality during 49-52 weeks and 57-60 weeks respectively than other dietary treatment groups. It has also been reported by Daghir, and Shah (1973) that the requirements of vitamin B12 and pyridoxine were increased in high protein intakes. Wilson (1997) reported progression of mortality was seen in Vitamin B12 deficiency for all the three weeks of incubation but our results are not consistent. when different protein levels were considered high protein (14%) had significantly higher mid embryonic mortality only during 49-52 weeks period of the whole trial period from 29 to 60 weeks. Leeson and Summers (2009) observed, lower hatchability in breeders fed a low energy and high protein diet and the decrease appear to be resulted from increased embryonic mortality in mid incubation and unhatched pips. Similarly, high energy (2400 ME Kcal/Kg) had higher (P<0.05) mid embryonic mortality only during the last four weeks of the trial period (57-60 weeks). The embryonic mortality during this mid incubation is a sensitive indicator of nutritional deficiencies in the breeder diet (Leeson et al., 1979).\r\nLate embryonic mortality. There was no effect of diets due to different energy and protein levels on late embryonic mortality from 29 to 60 weeks of age. The same trend was observed in different energy levels for the whole period of 29-60 weeks. The protein levels also did not any show effect on the late embryonic mortality. The results could be due to adequacy of vitamins and Minerals such as Vitamin D and magnesium in the breeder diet, otherwise the deficiency of those resulted in late embryonic mortality (Wilson, 1997)\r\nUnhatched chicks. Among the interaction of different energy and protein levels 33-36 week, 49-52 week and 57-60 week periods showed significant (P<0.05) effect on unhatched chicks. In different energy levels high percentage of unhatched chicks in medium energy treatment group (2300 ME KCal/Kg) during 33-36 weeks and 49-52 weeks along with high energy treatment groups. The protein levels had no effect on the unhatched chicks. Though the results are inconsistent through the different periods, deficiency of folic acid and excess of iodine (Wilson, 1997) and depletion of glycogen reserves (Menge et al., 1979) could have attributed to higher unhatched chicks.\r\n','S. Bakyaraj, S.T. Selvan, S. Vairamuthu, L. Radhakrishnan, P. Shamsudeen and P. Vijayakumar (2022). Optimization of Dietary Energy and Protein Levels for Reproductive Performance of Native Chicken Variety (Aseel cross). Biological Forum – An International Journal, 14(3): 617-624.'),(5333,'136','Effect of Accelerated Ageing on Moisture and viability of Rice Genotypes','J. Poojitha, Ch. Aruna Kumari, D. Sanjeeva Rao, P. Raghuveer Rao and N. Siromani','105 Effect of Accelerated Ageing on Moisture and viability of Rice Genotypes J. Poojitha.pdf','',1,'The availability of high-quality seed at the time of planting is the most important factor in the success of any crop. This is because high-quality seed ensures not only proper emergence but also rapid establishment of seedlings in the field, which increases seed yield. Temperature and moisture content are two main factors that influence seed quality during storage. The use of stored seed for sowing results in low yield due to physiological and biochemical changes that occur during aging. Seed quality deterioration during aging is a natural occurrence. This is caused by changes in various physiological parameters such as change in moisture content, seedling length, and seed viability. Changes in these parameters have a negative impact on seed yield and related characteristics. Hence in this study different genotypes of rice (Oryza sativa L.) were subjected to accelerated ageing by traditionally and by using saturated salt (NaCl) for 24, 48 and 72 hours respectively, these artificially aged seeds were compared with unaged seeds. Accelerated ageing at both the conditions had significant effect on viability, length if seedling and moisture content of seeds. Viability and length of seedling was decreased with increase in time of ageing and completely lost in some genotypes at 72 hours of traditional accelerated ageing and the moisture was significantly increased in all the genotypes at both the accelerated ageing conditions. Finally, the results revealed that the accelerated ageing cause progressive decline in viability of seed.','Accelerated ageing, genotypes, Moisture, Viability, Seedling','The study concluded that the viability, seedling length was decreased and increase in moisture was recorded as the duration of ageing prolonged among the varieties at both the AA conditions, Where as more effect was observed during TAA. Among the genotypes taken RNR 28361 showed maximum viability and seedling length at both the AA treatments.\r\nThe biological mechanism of seed deterioration during seed storage needs to be understood. The storage studies can be further extended to know the influence of storage conditions of different paddy varieties.\r\n','INTRODUCTION \r\nRice (Oryza sativa L.) is the world\'s second most important cereal crop and a staple food for more than half of the world’s population. It is grown in 118 countries worldwide, with Asia accounting for 146 million hectares of the world\'s rice producing (FAO, 2019). Asia accounts for nearly 90% of global rice production and Asia is home to nine of the top ten rice producing and consuming countries. With 42.5 million ha, India is the world\'s major (largest) rice-growing country (Surendran et al., 2021).\r\nRice cultivation in the country is carried out in a humid tropical and subtropical climate characterized by high temperature and relative humidity, resulting in changes in genetic integrity and faster deterioration of seeds. As the seed is the most important input in agriculture, it is essential to maintain the quality of seed for producing vigorous plants (Qun et al., 2007). Seed deterioration, an irreversible degenerative process that occurs during storage which reduces seed quality over time. On the other hand, the rate of deterioration is influenced by seed moisture content, which upon increasing causes faster deterioration (Ellis et al., 1992). Many physiological manifestations of seed deterioration have been extensively reported (McDonald, 1999; Jatoi et al., 2004; Kapoor et al., 2011). The most widely accepted criterion for seed deterioration is loss of seed viability and germinability. It takes at least three to four months to study the deteriorative changes that occur with age. As a result, an alternative approach known as accelerated ageing is used, which induces desired changes in rice in a shorter time span, resulting in properties similar to those of naturally aged rice (Gujral and Kumar 2003).\r\nMATERIALS AND METHODS\r\nExperimental Materials: The present study was carried out at the Indian Institute of Rice Research, Hyderabad and the Central Instrumentation Cell, PJTSAU, Hyderabad during 2021 in order to determine the effect of accelerated ageing on viability, moisture and seedling length in ten different rice genotypes, namely RNR-15459, RNR-21278, RNR-29325, RNR-28361, JGL-38168, JGL-38957, JGL-38071, JGL-18047, JGL 38237 and JGL-38917.\r\nAccelerated ageing (AA): AA was traditionally performed with distilled water and a saturated salt solution (NaCl). The seeds were spread uniformly over a plastic net in a desiccator which contains 100 ml of distilled water. The main purpose of the plastic net is to avoid contact between the seeds and the distilled water. Saturated Salt Accelerated ageing (SSAA) is accomplished in the same way as described above by replacing distilled water with saturated salt solutions (Olivera et al., 2020). The seeds were collected after 24, 48 and 72 hour intervals respectively.\r\nMoisture content (%): It was determined by drying the sample in a hot air oven at 103°C for 17 hours (ISTA, 2013).\r\nViability (%): The viability of seeds is determined by using the traditional tetrazolium method (Moore, 1973).\r\nSeedling length: Three replicates of ten seeds each were germinated using the paper towel method and after eight days of germination, five normal seedlings were chosen at random from each replicate and their length was measured.\r\nRESULTS AND DISCUSSION\r\nParameters investigated during the study include seed viability, moisture, and seedling length. In the control group, initial seed viability ranged from 100 to 88 percent (unaged seeds). A significant decrease in viability was observed during bothTraditional Accelerated Ageing(TAA) and SSAA, with RNR 15459, RNR 29325, and JGL 38917 exhibiting negative behaviour with SSAA. In TAA, the maximum decline in viability was observed in RNR 15459 (95-24%), followed by JGL 38917 (89-22%) (Fig. 1), and the maximum decline in SSAA conditions was observed in JGL 38168 (100-63%), followed by JGL 38237 (99-87%) (Fig. 2). RNR 28361 was found to be the least affected in terms of viability during both ageing conditions. Similar decline in viability were observed in rice by Kapoor et al. (2011); Somasundaram and Bhaskaran (2017); Sasaki et al. (2015); in Niger seeds by Gordin et al. (2015); Jathropa by Suresh et al. (2019) and Tetrapleura by Sossou et al. (2019).\r\nMoisture content increased in all rice genotypes under both ageing conditions. The percentage moisture increase was greater during TAA than during SSAA. The moisture content of the varieties ranged from 11 to 13% (unaged) across all genotypes. RNR 29325 had the greatest increase in moisture during TAA (11-29.8), followed by RNR 15459 (11-30.9 percent) (Fig. 3). There was a significant progressive increase in moisture with increase in duration of accelerated ageing in rice genotypes by Prakash et al. (2020); Bijanzadeh et al. (2017); Kavitha et al. (2017); Hussain et al. (2012) in maize and Kapoor at al.(2010) in chick pea. During SSAA the highest was observed in JGL 38957 at 72 hours of ageing treatment (Fig. 4) such differences were observed by Ellis and Hong (2007) in rice, Oliveira et al. (2020) in Brachiaria brizantha. \r\nAt both conditions, the accelerated ageing treatment resulted in a significant decrease in seedling length. The length decrease was greatest at TAA, and complete loss of germination was observed in RNR 15459, RNR 21278, JGL 38957, and JGL 38917 after 72 hours of TAA (Fig. 5). RNR 29325 had the greatest decrease in seedling length during 72 hours of SSAA, followed by JGL 18047 (Fig. 6). similar reduction pattern in seedling length in rice was reported by Garcia and Coelho (2021); Bijanzadeh et al. (2017); Govindaraj et al. (2017); Raja et al. (2019) in rice; Ghasemi et al. (2014) in wheat; Yagushi et al. (2014) in soy bean; and Vijayalakshmi et al. (2014) in tomato.\r\n','J. Poojitha, Ch. Aruna Kumari, D. Sanjeeva Rao, P. Raghuveer Rao and N. Siromani (2022). Effect of Accelerated Ageing on Moisture and viability of Rice Genotypes. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 14(3): 625-629.'),(5334,'136','Population Dynamics of Whitefly, Bemisia tabaci and Spotted Pod Borer, Maruca vitrata on blackgram (Vigna mungo) in relation to Abiotic Factors','Ch. Sowmya, D. Veeranna, P. Rajanikanth and N. Sandhya Kishore','106 Population Dynamics of Whitefly, Bemisia tabaci and Spotted Pod Borer, Maruca vitrata on blackgram (Vigna mungo) in relation to Abiotic Factors Ch. Sowmya.pdf','',1,'In view of increase in extent of area under black gram during rabi season in Telangana and prevalence of biotic stress at vegetative and podding stage leading drastic reduction of economic yield. A study on seasonal incidence of whitefly and spotted pod borer on blackgram was conducted during rabi season, 2021 at Regional Agricultural Research Station, Warangal, PJTSAU. The results revealed that the incidence of whitefly on blackgram started from 15 days after sowing i.e., 43rd standard meteorological week with initial population being 0.68 whitefly per plant and from thereafter the population was gradually increased and reached its peak during 47th SMW with 5.2 whitefly per plant. The prevailed weather conditions during this period was 22.8oC to 33.4oC temperature, 67.9% to 92.7% relative humidity and this may favoured for gradual increase and multiplication of whitefly population in blackgram ecosystem. The incidence of spotted pod borer was started at flowering stage i.e., during 46th SMW with initial population being 0.38 larvae per plant and reached its peak population (2.38 larvae/plant) during 49th SMW when the temperature was 18.4oC to 30.5oC and relative humidity was 53.7% to 88.6% respectively. Correlation studies showed maximum temperature, minimum temperature and relative humidity (morning and evening) had positive influence and sunshine hours had negative influence on whitefly population dynamics, whereas, spotted pod borer influenced positively with sunshine hours, temperature and negatively with relative humidity. The results revealed that weather parameters like temperature, relative humidity and sunshine hours played as limiting factors for population build-up of whitefly and M. vitrata on black gram during rabi season.','Blackgram, whitefly, spotted pod borer, incidence, population dynamics','Favorable environmental conditions were played a significant role in development of whitefly and M. vitrata population in blackgram sown during rabi season. Temperature and relative humidity are very vital in population buildup of whitefly while temperature and sunshine hours in case of M. vitrata during rabi season.','INTRODUCTION\r\nBlackgram (Vigna mungo L. Hepper) is commonly known as urdbean in India belongs to family leguminosae, sub family Papilionaceae. It is the fourth most important short-duration pulse crop grown in India because of its nutritional and industrial values (Nene, 2006). India is the largest producer (accounting >70% of the global production) and consumer of black gram in the world. In India, blackgram is one of the multipurpose pulse crops grown on 4.11 m. ha. with annual production of 2.45MT and average productivity of 596 kg/ha (AICRP on MULLaRP, Annual Report, 2020-21).\r\nThe production and productivity of blackgram is hindered by both biotic and abiotic factors. Among biotic stresses, losses due to insect pests and diseases are quite alarming. In India, 60 insect species are known to attack black gram crop at different stages of crop growth. The major pests of blackgram are whitefly (Bemisia tabaci), thrips (Thrips tabaci), leaf hopper (Empoasca kerri), defoliator (Madurasia obscurella), spotted pod borer (Maruca vitrata), pea butterfly (Lampides boeticus), tobacco caterpillar (Spodoptera litura) and gram pod borer (Helicoverpa armigera) (Soundararajan and Chitra 2012). Among which whitefly and spotted pod borer are consistently in their amount of loss caused. Whitefly damages directly by sucking sap from leaves and lowering the vitality of plants, and indirectly through transmitting yellow mosaic virus (Nariani, 1960). Spotted pod borer basically a hidden pest feeds on flowers, buds and pods by webbing together, its entrance hole on pod is plugged with excreta (Sreekanth et al. 2015). The annual yield loss due to the insect pests was about 30 per cent in black gram and mung bean (Gailce et al., 2015).\r\nIn view of increase in extent of area under black gram during rabi season in Telangana and prevalence of biotic stress at vegetative and podding stage leading drastic reduction of economic yield. The present study was undertaken to assess the incidence of whitefly and spotted pod borer on blackgram in relation to abiotic stresses during rabi season, 2021.\r\nMATERIALS AND METHODS\r\nThe present study was carried out at A24 block of Regional Agricultural Research Station, Warangal, (GPS coordinates 18.0125 ͦN latitude and 79.59 ͦE longitude). Popular blackgram variety, LBG-752 was sown in 100 Sq. meters duly following recommended agronomic practices under unprotected conditions. The sowing was carried out in rabi season, on 12th October, 2021 with spacing 30 cm between the rows and 10 cm between the plants. To record the observations the entire 100 m2 plot was divided into 10 quadrates each of 1m × 1m. Five plants were selected in each quadrate of 1m ×1m, thus a total of 50 plants were tagged and observations on whitefly and spotted pod borer incidence was recorded early in the morning from their first appearance till harvesting of the crop at a weekly interval.\r\nThe population of whitely was recorded by counting the nymphs and adults on two leaves each from top, middle and lower canopy of five randomly selected and tagged plants in each quadrate visually and by using magnifying lens at weekly interval. Apart from visual observation, whitefly incidence was also recorded by erecting yellow sticky traps at the field above crop canopy. Incidence of M. vitrata was recorded by counting the number of larvae of five randomly selected and tagged plants in each quadrate. The cumulative population of whitefly and M. vitrata was calculated and weekly data on temperature, relative humidity (RH), and sunshine hours were obtained. Statistical analysis of data was analyzed through simple correlations between population dynamics of whitefly and abiotic parameters, maximum temperature, minimum temperature, relative humidity (morning and evening) and sunshine hours.\r\nRESULT AND DISCUSSION\r\nInfluence of abiotic factors on whitefly, B. tabaci: The data on population dynamics of whitefly B. tabaci, (Gennadius) on blackgram studied during Rabi, 2021-22 revealed that the incidence of whitefly on blackgram started from 15 days after sowing (DAS) and the dynamics of whitefly population was in the range of 0.5-5.2 per plant during the study period (Rabi season). The first observation was recorded on 43rd SMW (second fort night of October) i.e., 15 DAS with 0.68 whitefly per plant and the population was gradually increased and reached its peak during 47th SMW (fourth week of November) with 5.2 whitefly per plant (Fig. 1). The weather conditions prevailed during that period was 33.4oC maximum temperature, 22.8oC minimum temperature, 92.7% RHI and 67.9% RHII, which may favoured for gradual increase and multiplication of whitefly population. A gradual decline in the pest population was evident thereafter (Table 1). Whitefly prefers to suck the phloem sap from the succulent part of the plant and as the plant became older its dry matter accumulation is increased with the age of the plant and thus reduces population of whitefly and its infestation as well (Latif and Akhatar 2013). The present findings are partially corroborate with the results of Kumar et al. (2004) who noted that highest population of whitefly was recorded on 32.5° maximum temperature, 20.8° minimum temperature and 82% relative humidity respectively.\r\nThe yellow sticky trap data revealed that whitefly catches per trap was in the range of 12.4 to134.1 per trap per week. The first observation was recorded on 43rd SMW (second fort night of October) with initial population of 21.2 whitefly per trap and the trap catches were gradually increased and reached its peak during 47th SMW (fourth week of November) with 134.1 catches per trap. A gradual decline in the pest population was evident thereafter (Table 1, Fig. 2 and Plate 2). \r\nCorrelation studies between whitefly population and abiotic factors (Table 2) revealed that the whitefly population showed positive correlation with maximum temperature (r = 0.730), minimum temperature (r = 0.710) and relative humidity (morning, r = 0.394 and evening, r = 0.693) while, negative correlation with sunshine hours (r = -0.779). Similarly, correlation coefficient between whitefly catches on sticky traps and abiotic factors revealed positive correlation with respect to maximum temperature (r = 0.386), minimum temperature (r = 0.440) and relative humidity (morning and evening r = 0.259, r = 0.550, respectively), while sunshine hours (r = -0.365) prevailed during the seasons showed negative correlation. This proved abiotic factors viz., temperature, relative humidity and sunshine hours influence population build-up of whitefly in blackgram ecosystem. Byrne (1991) stated that the weather parameters such as temperature, wind speed, rainfall and relative humidity play important roles towards the population dynamics of whiteflies.\r\nThe results are in accordance with the findings of Yadav et al. (2015) who reported that whitefly incidence in blackgram has non-significant positive correlation with temperature (maximum and minimum) and relative humidity (morning and evening), however, SSH has non-significant negative correlation. Patil et al. (2021) reported that whitefly population in mungbean showed non-significant positive correlation with temperature (maximum and minimum) and RH. Similarly, Suyal et al. (2018) reported that population of whitefly indicated positive correlation with all the weather parameters except SSH which showed negative correlation in soybean. The abiotic factors viz., maximum temperature, minimum temperature, RHI, RHII and rainfall exhibited positive correlation with whitefly population in clusterbean.\r\nInfluence of abiotic stress spotted pod borer, M. vitrata on blackgram: The results revealed that spotted pod borer population on blackgram ranged from 0.22-2.38 larvae per plant during the study period. The incidence of spotted pod borer was started from 46th SMW with initial population being 0.38 larvae per plant (2nd week of November) and was gradually increased and attained its peak during 49th SMW (1st week of December) with 2.38 larvae per plant. During the peak period, the weather parameters prevailed are 30.5oC maximum temperature, 18.4oC minimum temperature, 88.6% RHI and 53.7% RHII which may favoured for the increase and multiplication of larval population (Fig. 3 & Table 3).\r\nCorrelation studies revealed that the spotted pod borer haspositive correlation with sunshine hours (r = 0.212), maximum (r = 0.297) and minimum (r = 0.128) temperature while, negative correlation with morning (r = -0.458) and (r = -0.660) evening relative humidity. The present results are in accordance with Shejulpatil et al. (2020) who reported that maximum temperature and sunshine hours showed significant positive correlation with larval population and per cent pod damage whereas, morning relative humidity showed significant negative correlation with larval population. Kapoor and Shankar (2019) who reported that larval population indicated significant positive correlation with maximum temperature and minimum temperature, significant negative correlation with morning and evening relative humidity in blackgram. Similarly, Kantegari et al. (2020) on Indian bean reported that spotted pod borer population showed positive correlation with maximum and minimum (significant) temperature and negative correlation with RH and rainfall (Table 4).\r\n','Ch. Sowmya, D. Veeranna, P. Rajanikanth and N. Sandhya Kishore (2022). Population Dynamics of Whitefly, Bemisia tabaci and Spotted Pod Borer, Maruca vitrata on blackgram (Vigna mungo) in Relation to Abiotic Factors. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 14(3): 630-634.'),(5335,'136','Effect of Foliar Application of GA3, NAA and Urea on Fruit Quality Attributes of Ber (Zizyphus mauritiana Lamk.) cv. Banarasi Karaka','Trivendra Kumar, Deepak Kumar, Vishal Gangwar, Navdeep Singh, Rakesh Kumar Gautam, Nitin Kumar Chouhan1and Suneel Kumar Patel','107 Effect of Foliar Application of GA3, NAA and Urea on Fruit Quality Attributes of Ber (Zizyphus mauritiana Lamk.) cv. Banarasi Karaka Deepak Kumar.pdf','',4,'The present investigation was carried out in the Horticulture Garden Department of Fruit Science, College of Horticulture, Chandra Shekhar Azad University of Agriculture and Technology, Kanpur during October 2018-march 2019. The Ber (Zizyphus mauritiana Lamk.), a significant indigenous fruit of China and India, has long been associated with Indian culture. The strong economic benefits, low cultivation costs, wide range of adaptation, and drought resistance of ber make it a popular crop. In this context, plant growth regulators are important. For enhancing blooming, fruit set, fruit drop, size, and quantity of fruit, many types of plant regulators like NAA, 2,4-D, 2,4,5-T, GA3, and TIBA are utilized. Fruit quality, including total soluble solids, ascorbic acid, total sugar, and acidity, was dramatically increased by foliar application of GA3, NAA, and urea. Over the control, application of the urea and plant growth regulators mentioned above had an impact on the biochemical components of fruit. The foliar spray of T8 (GA3 20 ppm + NAA 40 ppm + urea 1.5%) is advised to have a maximum total soluble solids concentration of 17.88°Brix. In terms of the ascorbic acid content of the ber fruit, there was a significant difference with the application of gibberellic, naphthalene acetic acid, and urea; all three treatments were determined to be significant compared to the control. The treatment of T8 resulted in the highest ascorbic acid level ever measured (101.05 mg/100g). Application of above plant growth regulators and urea influenced biochemical constituents of fruit over the control. The combined treatments of GA3 20 ppm + NAA 40 ppm + urea 1.5% maximized the overall fruit quality.','GA3, NAA, Urea, PGR, Ber and Quality','The administration of plant growth regulators, especially GA3, NAA, and urea, as well as their combination treatments, changed a number of parameters in this study. The combined treatments of (GA3 20 ppm + NAA 40 ppm + urea 1.5 %) increased total soluble solids content, ascorbic acid, and total sugar and decreased acidity content. The second effective medication in the current investigation was identified as Treatment (GA3 10 ppm + NAA 20 ppm + urea 1%). The combined therapy of GA3 (20 ppm + NAA 40 ppm + urea 1.5) percent was shown to be more effective in the current trial, according to the finding’s scenario. Therefore, in order to boost production and increase income, it is advised that researchers, orchardists, farmers, and students spray this medication on Ber trees.','INTRODUCTION\r\nZizyphus mauriatiana, commonly known as Ber, is a tropical fruit tree that belongs to the Rhamnaceae family and is also referred to as the Chinese date, Chinese apple, Jujube, Indian plum, Regipandu, Indian jujube, Dunks (in Barbados), and Masau. Long associated with Indian culture is the ber (Zizyphus mauritiana Lamk.), a prominent indigenous fruit of China and India. Ber is used in the Puranas, the Vedas, and other literary works including the Kautilya Arthasastra, Charak Samitha, and others. Ved Vyas, the sage and author of \"Purana\" and \"Mahabharat,\" really made one of the Ber tree\'s primary fruits his residence, earning him the epithet \"Badrayan\" (A person living in a forest of Ber tree).\r\nIn the tropics, it may be discovered in both domesticated and wild forms up to a height of 1500 meters above mean sea level. It can be successfully cultivated even in the most fragile settings of the subtropics and tropics. Ber is frequently utilized because of its high economic returns, low cultivation expenses, wide range of adaptability, and ability to withstand drought.\r\nThe Indian jujube is a native of Afghanistan, Malaysia, and Queensland, Australia, which are all in the Yunnan region of southern China. Ber has been used in India for nearly 4,000 years. Even though it frequently escapes cultivation and develops into a pest, it is planted to some amount across its natural habitat, but mostly in India where it is produced for commercial purposes. Examples of locations where specimens may be found include the Bahamas, Colombia, Venezuela, Guatemala, Belize, the arid West Indies, and southern Florida. The tree has established itself as a native species in Barbados, Jamaica, and Puerto Rico where it grows in thickets in untamed areas. It grows both in cultivation and a wild or semi-wild condition in nearly every area of India. The states that are growing the quickest include Uttar Pradesh, Bihar, Madhya Pradesh, Punjab, Haryana, Rajasthan, Gujarat, Maharashtra, and Andhra Pradesh. Major Ber-growing areas in Uttar Pradesh include Varanasi, Aligarh, Faizabad, Agra, and RaeBareli district. It comes from India and is one of the most well-known and historically significant sub-tropical fruits. It is often cultivated in a range of soil types and climatic circumstances, including drought, because to its resilience and capacity for weight. The relationship between nutrition and finances is not widely known. It has a tremendous lot of promise.\r\nIt is an 8–10 m tall, small tree or shrub with stipular spines, a spreading crown, and a lot of drooping limbs. A 40 cm diameter minimum is present in the trunk. Variables exist in the fruit\'s shape and size. It can be up to 2.5 cm (1 inch) long and have a variety of shapes, such as oval, ovulate, or round, depending on the kind. There is crisp white flesh. When it is little underripe and a little damp, this fruit has a beautiful aroma. The skin of the fruit is smooth, lustrous, slender, and tight.\r\nThe development of the fruit is affected by a variety of genetic, physiological, nutritional, hormonal, and environmental factors. Plant growth regulators play a key role in this situation. These are used for fruit and flower thinning, vegetative propagation, artificially inducing seedlessness, increasing fruit production, preventing preharvest fruit drop, controlling blooming, suppressing growth, and controlling preharvest fruit drop. Numerous types of plant regulators including NAA, 2,4-D, 2,4,5-T, GA3, and TIBA are used to improve fruit set, fruit drop, size, and quantity of fruit (Bonnar, 1950; Van Overbreak, 1959). NAA (Auxin) also stops fruit drop by suffocating the pedicle. It is now easier to see the fruit pedicle. Auxin levels that are high in the abscission zone prevent the fruit from dropping (Brigs and Leopide, 1958; Addicot and Lynch 1955). Ber is also included in this strategy, despite the fact that different scientists have periodically experimented on diverse fruit crops. But they fell short in this regard.\r\nGibberellins are mostly used for regulating physiological processes, but they may also be commercially used to improve the fruit quality of crops including apples, grapes, citrus, grapefruit, and berries. Three physiological processes—the lengthening of rachis cells, the thinning of flowers, and the growth of berries in grapes—have all been impacted. Citrus has also benefited from the influence of GA3\'s ability to postpone fruit senescence, and more recent study suggests that GA3 may even encourage apple flowering. GA3 has been reported to promote fruit set and minimize fruit drop in Ber, according Gill and Bal (2013).\r\nMATERIAL AND METHODS\r\nThe present investigation was carried out in the Horticulture Garden Department of Fruit Science, College of Horticulture, Chandra Shekhar Azad University of Agriculture and Technology, Kanpur during October 2018-March 2019.\r\nBanarasi Karaka Ber cultivar trees that were uniform, healthy, and well-established were chosen for the experiment\'s goal. The trees, which were around 47 years old, were maintained in good condition by adhering to the recommended fertilizer doses and other horticultural practices. Throughout the research, the entire orchard was kept orderly and consistently maintained. Three unique branches from each of the nine cut Ber trees were selected and utilized as a single unit (for one treatment). As a consequence, 27 units were selected on 9 Ber trees, and the experiment proceeded as planned. The experiment included nine treatments, each of which included foliar sprays of GA3, NAA, Urea and control. The treatments are as follows- T0 Control (water spray), T1 (GA3 @10 ppm), T2 (GA3 @20 ppm), T3 (NAA @20 ppm), T4 (NAA @40 ppm), T5 (Urea @1.0%), T6 (Urea @1.5%), T7 (GA3 @10 ppm + NAA @20 ppm + Urea @1.0%), T8 (GA3 @20 ppm + NAA @40 ppm + urea @1.5%). In the early morning, foot sprayers with various concentrations of the aforementioned solutions were used to thoroughly soak a few selected branches. Only water spray is authorized as a form of control. A homogenous spray of plant growth regulators and urea was applied to the leaves of each treatment on November 27, 2018, when the fruit-setting stage was in progress. This was done to cover the whole Ber plant treatment.\r\n(a) Total soluble solids (0Brix): Sample fruits of each plant were crushed to form a homogenized sample and then the juice was extracted through muslin cloth. The extract was used for determination of T.S.S. in 0Brix by hand refractometer.\r\n(b) Ascorbic acid (mg/100g): Ascorbic acid was extracted from the pulp by macerating 5g of sample with 3% metaphosphoric acid (MPA) solution. The extract was filtered and volume made to 25 ml in volumetric flask. Two ml of the aliquot was taken and titrated against standardized blue dye till the light pink color appeared which was taken as the end point. \r\n(c) Acidity (%): 20 ml fruit juice solution was taken by pipette and transferred into a 100 ml flask and then distilled water was added to make up the volume up to 100 ml. It was shaken well to dissolve. 0.25 ml of diluted fruit juice which was taken by pipette and transferred into a 250 ml beaker, and then 3 drops of Phenophthalene indicator were added in this solution. The burette was filled with N/10 NaOH solution and juice was titrated with alkali solution, drop by drop with constant stirring till the pink end point was reached. End point readings were recorded and the percentage acidity was calculated by the formula and expressed in terms of citric acid.\r\nTotal acidity per cent = 0.128 × titer value\r\n(d) Total sugars (%): For the estimation of total sugars, 20 ml of ber juice solution was taken in a beaker and 5ml of concentrated HCL was added and then the solution was boiled on water bath for five minutes for the hydrolysis to convert the non-reducing sugar in to reducing sugars. After cooling, the excess of acid was neutralized by sodium carbonate solution. The solution was transferred in a 100ml volumetric flask and volume was made up to mark by adding distilled water. This solution was taken in a burette and titrated with the Fehling ‘s solution A and B similar as was done in reducing sugars. The total sugars in percentage were calculated with the help of following formula.\r\nTotal sugars (%) = (0.25/Burette reading) × 100\r\nRESULTS AND DISCUSSION\r\nFruit quality, including total soluble solids, ascorbic acid, total sugar, and acidity, were dramatically enhanced by foliar application of GA3, NAA, and Urea. The biochemical components of fruit were changed over the control by the application of the aforementioned plant growth regulators and urea. \r\nTotal soluble solids (°Brix): The foliar spray of T8 (GA3 20 ppm + NAA 40 ppm + urea 1.5%) showed the highest total soluble solids (17.88°Brix), which was significant in this experiment. The plants that were left untreated showed the lowest total soluble solids (13.17°Brix) (control). Total soluble solids ranged from 13.17 to 17.88°Brix, with treatment T8 (GA3 20 ppm + NAA 40 ppm + urea 1.5 %) being applied over control resulting in a maximum of 35.76 %. This increase in total soluble solids of treated juice may be the result of a rise in plant hormone-mediated mobilization of carbohydrates from the source to sink fruit. In addition, these growth regulators stimulated enzymatic activity, converted carbohydrates into simple sugar, and released nitrogen, which strengthened the fruit juice and increased the amount of total soluble solids in the berry fruit. These conclusions with those made in the papers of Kale et al. (1999); Yadav and Singh (2001); Rajpal et al. (2001); Singh et al. (2001); Katiyar et al. (2010); Singh et al. (2010) in Ber and Singh and Singh (2015) in Aonla.\r\nAscorbic acid (mg/100g): The results of the experiments revealed a substantial difference in the ascorbic acid content of the Ber fruit when gibberellin, naphthalene acetic acid, and urea were applied; all of the treatments were determined to be significantly different from the control. The treatment of T8 (GA3 20 ppm + NAA 40 ppm + urea 1.5 %) resulted in the highest ascorbic acid concentration (101.05 mg/100g) that could be produced. The control treatment (T0) had an impact on the lowest ascorbic acid concentration (81.26 mg/100g). Regarding, a further improvement of 24.35 % was shown with the use of T8 (GA3 20 ppm + NAA 40 ppm + urea 1.5 %) spray therapy. The increase in ascorbic acid content has been demonstrated due to metabolic activities involving specific enzymes and metabolic ions under the influence of plant growth regulators and urea. The ascorbic acid content improvement may be attributable to the actual synthesis of glucose-6 phosphate during fruit growth and development, which is thought to be a precursor to ascorbic acid (vitamin C). With the use of plant growth regulators like GA3 and NAA as well as the strengthening of the nitrogen nutrient, it may have occurred rather frequently (urea). These results are consistent with the reports of Singh and Shukla (1978); Masalkar and Wavhal (1991); Singh et al. (2001) in Ber, Kher et al. (2005); Singh et al. (2010) in guava, and Singh and Singh (2015) in Aonla.\r\nAcidity (%): The data scenario showed that urea and growth regulators reduced the acidity of Ber fruit. Treatment of T3 and T1 displayed 0.37 and 0.36 % acidity content, respectively, whereas treatment of control (T0) substantially indicated a maximum acidity content of 0.39 % in Ber fruit. In this regard, throughout the research, the plants treated with T8 (GA3 20 ppm + NAA 40 ppm + urea 1.5%) reported 0.15 % considerably lower acidity. The range of the acidity content was, correspondingly, 0.15 to 0.39 %. The treatment of T8 (GA3 20 ppm + NAA 40 ppm + urea 1.5%) resulted in a reduction of 61.53 % in the acidity content of Ber fruit. It indicates that under the influence of growth regulators, acid content may have been either quickly transformed into sugars and their derivatives by a mechanism involving the reverse glycolytic pathway or may have been employed in respiration, or both. It clearly functioned under the impact of GA3 and NAA in particular, which strengthened the nitrogen phenomenon (urea). These results are consistent with the reports of Shukla and Singh (1998); Masalkar and Wavhal (1991); Singh et al. (2001) in Ber, Kheret al. (2005); Singh et al. (2010) in guava, and Singh and Singh (2015) in Aonla.\r\nTotal sugars (%): The total sugar percentage of Ber fruit was strongly and consistently altered by the effects of plant growth regulators and urea concentrations. According to this theory, sprays of treatment T8 (GA3 20 ppm + NAA 40 ppm + urea 1.5 %) increased the amount of total sugar in Ber fruit by 9.85 %. Control plants, or untreated plants, had a considerably lower 8.15 % total sugar percentage in Ber fruit. 8.15 to 9.85 % of total sugar was noted. As a result, sprays of treatment T8 (GA3 20 ppm + NAA 40 ppm + urea 1.5 %) above control showed the greatest improvement in total sugar percentage at 20.85%. Fruit sweetness may have improved as a result of increased photosynthetic activity, increased carbohydrate content production, and enhanced carbohydrate translocations with the fruits. Sugars are crucially transformed into their compounds by reactions involving numerous glycolytic pathways under the control of growth regulators. Nitrogen significantly strengthened the activity in this phenomenon. The reports by Kale et al. (1999); Yadav and Singh (2001); Bhati and Yadav (2003); Katiyar et al. (2010) in Ber, and Singh and Singh (2015) in Aonla are all in agreement with these findings.\r\nNumerous researches on different fruit crops, including Ber, have been conducted. Many scientists have sometimes studied on this topic. They failed, nevertheless, in this regard. Gibberellins are commercially used to improve the fruit quality of crops including apples, grapes, citrus, grapefruit, and berries. Gibberellins have mostly been used to change a variety of physiological processes. Grapes have undergone modifications to three physiological processes, including rachis cell elongation, floral thinning, and berry enlargement. The capacity of GA3 to delay fruit senescence has also been utilized by citrus, and more recent study suggests that GA3 may even promote apple blossoming. According to research by Godara et al. (2001); Kale et al. (1999) and Gill and Bal (2013).\r\n \r\n','Trivendra Kumar, Deepak Kumar, Vishal Gangwar, Navdeep Singh, Rakesh Kumar Gautam, Nitin Kumar Chouhan1and Suneel Kumar Patel (2022). Effect of Foliar Application of Ga3, Naa and Urea on Fruit Quality Attributes of Ber (Zizyphus mauritiana Lamk.) cv. Banarasi Karaka. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 14(3): 635-638.'),(5336,'136','Effect of Foliar Application of GA3, NAA and Urea on Fruit Quality Attributes of Ber (Zizyphus mauritiana Lamk.) cv. Banarasi Karaka','Trivendra Kumar, Deepak Kumar, Vishal Gangwar, Navdeep Singh, Rakesh Kumar Gautam, Nitin Kumar Chouhan and Suneel Kumar Patel','107 Effect of Foliar Application of GA3, NAA and Urea on Fruit Quality Attributes of Ber (Zizyphus mauritiana Lamk.) cv. Banarasi Karaka Deepak Kumar.pdf','',1,'The present investigation was carried out in the Horticulture Garden Department of Fruit Science, College of Horticulture, Chandra Shekhar Azad University of Agriculture and Technology, Kanpur during October 2018-march 2019. The Ber (Zizyphus mauritiana Lamk.), a significant indigenous fruit of China and India, has long been associated with Indian culture. The strong economic benefits, low cultivation costs, wide range of adaptation, and drought resistance of ber make it a popular crop. In this context, plant growth regulators are important. For enhancing blooming, fruit set, fruit drop, size, and quantity of fruit, many types of plant regulators like NAA, 2,4-D, 2,4,5-T, GA3, and TIBA are utilized. Fruit quality, including total soluble solids, ascorbic acid, total sugar, and acidity, was dramatically increased by foliar application of GA3, NAA, and urea. Over the control, application of the urea and plant growth regulators mentioned above had an impact on the biochemical components of fruit. The foliar spray of T8 (GA3 20 ppm + NAA 40 ppm + urea 1.5%) is advised to have a maximum total soluble solids concentration of 17.88°Brix. In terms of the ascorbic acid content of the ber fruit, there was a significant difference with the application of gibberellic, naphthalene acetic acid, and urea; all three treatments were determined to be significant compared to the control. The treatment of T8 resulted in the highest ascorbic acid level ever measured (101.05 mg/100g). Application of above plant growth regulators and urea influenced biochemical constituents of fruit over the control. The combined treatments of GA3 20 ppm + NAA 40 ppm + urea 1.5% maximized the overall fruit quality.','GA3, NAA, Urea, PGR, Ber and Quality','The administration of plant growth regulators, especially GA3, NAA, and urea, as well as their combination treatments, changed a number of parameters in this study. The combined treatments of (GA3 20 ppm + NAA 40 ppm + urea 1.5 %) increased total soluble solids content, ascorbic acid, and total sugar and decreased acidity content. The second effective medication in the current investigation was identified as Treatment (GA3 10 ppm + NAA 20 ppm + urea 1%). The combined therapy of GA3 (20 ppm + NAA 40 ppm + urea 1.5) percent was shown to be more effective in the current trial, according to the finding’s scenario. Therefore, in order to boost production and increase income, it is advised that researchers, orchardists, farmers, and students spray this medication on Ber trees.','INTRODUCTION\r\nZizyphus mauriatiana, commonly known as Ber, is a tropical fruit tree that belongs to the Rhamnaceae family and is also referred to as the Chinese date, Chinese apple, Jujube, Indian plum, Regipandu, Indian jujube, Dunks (in Barbados), and Masau. Long associated with Indian culture is the ber (Zizyphus mauritiana Lamk.), a prominent indigenous fruit of China and India. Ber is used in the Puranas, the Vedas, and other literary works including the Kautilya Arthasastra, Charak Samitha, and others. Ved Vyas, the sage and author of \"Purana\" and \"Mahabharat,\" really made one of the Ber tree\'s primary fruits his residence, earning him the epithet \"Badrayan\" (A person living in a forest of Ber tree).\r\nIn the tropics, it may be discovered in both domesticated and wild forms up to a height of 1500 meters above mean sea level. It can be successfully cultivated even in the most fragile settings of the subtropics and tropics. Ber is frequently utilized because of its high economic returns, low cultivation expenses, wide range of adaptability, and ability to withstand drought.\r\nThe Indian jujube is a native of Afghanistan, Malaysia, and Queensland, Australia, which are all in the Yunnan region of southern China. Ber has been used in India for nearly 4,000 years. Even though it frequently escapes cultivation and develops into a pest, it is planted to some amount across its natural habitat, but mostly in India where it is produced for commercial purposes. Examples of locations where specimens may be found include the Bahamas, Colombia, Venezuela, Guatemala, Belize, the arid West Indies, and southern Florida. The tree has established itself as a native species in Barbados, Jamaica, and Puerto Rico where it grows in thickets in untamed areas. It grows both in cultivation and a wild or semi-wild condition in nearly every area of India. The states that are growing the quickest include Uttar Pradesh, Bihar, Madhya Pradesh, Punjab, Haryana, Rajasthan, Gujarat, Maharashtra, and Andhra Pradesh. Major Ber-growing areas in Uttar Pradesh include Varanasi, Aligarh, Faizabad, Agra, and RaeBareli district. It comes from India and is one of the most well-known and historically significant sub-tropical fruits. It is often cultivated in a range of soil types and climatic circumstances, including drought, because to its resilience and capacity for weight. The relationship between nutrition and finances is not widely known. It has a tremendous lot of promise.\r\nIt is an 8–10 m tall, small tree or shrub with stipular spines, a spreading crown, and a lot of drooping limbs. A 40 cm diameter minimum is present in the trunk. Variables exist in the fruit\'s shape and size. It can be up to 2.5 cm (1 inch) long and have a variety of shapes, such as oval, ovulate, or round, depending on the kind. There is crisp white flesh. When it is little underripe and a little damp, this fruit has a beautiful aroma. The skin of the fruit is smooth, lustrous, slender, and tight.\r\nThe development of the fruit is affected by a variety of genetic, physiological, nutritional, hormonal, and environmental factors. Plant growth regulators play a key role in this situation. These are used for fruit and flower thinning, vegetative propagation, artificially inducing seedlessness, increasing fruit production, preventing preharvest fruit drop, controlling blooming, suppressing growth, and controlling preharvest fruit drop. Numerous types of plant regulators including NAA, 2,4-D, 2,4,5-T, GA3, and TIBA are used to improve fruit set, fruit drop, size, and quantity of fruit (Bonnar, 1950; Van Overbreak, 1959). NAA (Auxin) also stops fruit drop by suffocating the pedicle. It is now easier to see the fruit pedicle. Auxin levels that are high in the abscission zone prevent the fruit from dropping (Brigs and Leopide, 1958; Addicot and Lynch 1955). Ber is also included in this strategy, despite the fact that different scientists have periodically experimented on diverse fruit crops. But they fell short in this regard.\r\nGibberellins are mostly used for regulating physiological processes, but they may also be commercially used to improve the fruit quality of crops including apples, grapes, citrus, grapefruit, and berries. Three physiological processes—the lengthening of rachis cells, the thinning of flowers, and the growth of berries in grapes—have all been impacted. Citrus has also benefited from the influence of GA3\'s ability to postpone fruit senescence, and more recent study suggests that GA3 may even encourage apple flowering. GA3 has been reported to promote fruit set and minimize fruit drop in Ber, according Gill and Bal (2013).\r\nMATERIAL AND METHODS\r\nThe present investigation was carried out in the Horticulture Garden Department of Fruit Science, College of Horticulture, Chandra Shekhar Azad University of Agriculture and Technology, Kanpur during October 2018-March 2019.\r\nBanarasi Karaka Ber cultivar trees that were uniform, healthy, and well-established were chosen for the experiment\'s goal. The trees, which were around 47 years old, were maintained in good condition by adhering to the recommended fertilizer doses and other horticultural practices. Throughout the research, the entire orchard was kept orderly and consistently maintained. Three unique branches from each of the nine cut Ber trees were selected and utilized as a single unit (for one treatment). As a consequence, 27 units were selected on 9 Ber trees, and the experiment proceeded as planned. The experiment included nine treatments, each of which included foliar sprays of GA3, NAA, Urea and control. The treatments are as follows- T0 Control (water spray), T1 (GA3 @10 ppm), T2 (GA3 @20 ppm), T3 (NAA @20 ppm), T4 (NAA @40 ppm), T5 (Urea @1.0%), T6 (Urea @1.5%), T7 (GA3 @10 ppm + NAA @20 ppm + Urea @1.0%), T8 (GA3 @20 ppm + NAA @40 ppm + urea @1.5%). In the early morning, foot sprayers with various concentrations of the aforementioned solutions were used to thoroughly soak a few selected branches. Only water spray is authorized as a form of control. A homogenous spray of plant growth regulators and urea was applied to the leaves of each treatment on November 27, 2018, when the fruit-setting stage was in progress. This was done to cover the whole Ber plant treatment.\r\n(a) Total soluble solids (0Brix): Sample fruits of each plant were crushed to form a homogenized sample and then the juice was extracted through muslin cloth. The extract was used for determination of T.S.S. in 0Brix by hand refractometer.\r\n(b) Ascorbic acid (mg/100g): Ascorbic acid was extracted from the pulp by macerating 5g of sample with 3% metaphosphoric acid (MPA) solution. The extract was filtered and volume made to 25 ml in volumetric flask. Two ml of the aliquot was taken and titrated against standardized blue dye till the light pink color appeared which was taken as the end point. \r\n(c) Acidity (%): 20 ml fruit juice solution was taken by pipette and transferred into a 100 ml flask and then distilled water was added to make up the volume up to 100 ml. It was shaken well to dissolve. 0.25 ml of diluted fruit juice which was taken by pipette and transferred into a 250 ml beaker, and then 3 drops of Phenophthalene indicator were added in this solution. The burette was filled with N/10 NaOH solution and juice was titrated with alkali solution, drop by drop with constant stirring till the pink end point was reached. End point readings were recorded and the percentage acidity was calculated by the formula and expressed in terms of citric acid.\r\nTotal acidity per cent = 0.128 × titer value\r\n(d) Total sugars (%): For the estimation of total sugars, 20 ml of ber juice solution was taken in a beaker and 5ml of concentrated HCL was added and then the solution was boiled on water bath for five minutes for the hydrolysis to convert the non-reducing sugar in to reducing sugars. After cooling, the excess of acid was neutralized by sodium carbonate solution. The solution was transferred in a 100ml volumetric flask and volume was made up to mark by adding distilled water. This solution was taken in a burette and titrated with the Fehling ‘s solution A and B similar as was done in reducing sugars. The total sugars in percentage were calculated with the help of following formula.\r\nTotal sugars (%) = (0.25/Burette reading) × 100\r\nRESULTS AND DISCUSSION\r\nFruit quality, including total soluble solids, ascorbic acid, total sugar, and acidity, were dramatically enhanced by foliar application of GA3, NAA, and Urea. The biochemical components of fruit were changed over the control by the application of the aforementioned plant growth regulators and urea. \r\nTotal soluble solids (°Brix): The foliar spray of T8 (GA3 20 ppm + NAA 40 ppm + urea 1.5%) showed the highest total soluble solids (17.88°Brix), which was significant in this experiment. The plants that were left untreated showed the lowest total soluble solids (13.17°Brix) (control). Total soluble solids ranged from 13.17 to 17.88°Brix, with treatment T8 (GA3 20 ppm + NAA 40 ppm + urea 1.5 %) being applied over control resulting in a maximum of 35.76 %. This increase in total soluble solids of treated juice may be the result of a rise in plant hormone-mediated mobilization of carbohydrates from the source to sink fruit. In addition, these growth regulators stimulated enzymatic activity, converted carbohydrates into simple sugar, and released nitrogen, which strengthened the fruit juice and increased the amount of total soluble solids in the berry fruit. These conclusions with those made in the papers of Kale et al. (1999); Yadav and Singh (2001); Rajpal et al. (2001); Singh et al. (2001); Katiyar et al. (2010); Singh et al. (2010) in Ber and Singh and Singh (2015) in Aonla.\r\nAscorbic acid (mg/100g): The results of the experiments revealed a substantial difference in the ascorbic acid content of the Ber fruit when gibberellin, naphthalene acetic acid, and urea were applied; all of the treatments were determined to be significantly different from the control. The treatment of T8 (GA3 20 ppm + NAA 40 ppm + urea 1.5 %) resulted in the highest ascorbic acid concentration (101.05 mg/100g) that could be produced. The control treatment (T0) had an impact on the lowest ascorbic acid concentration (81.26 mg/100g). Regarding, a further improvement of 24.35 % was shown with the use of T8 (GA3 20 ppm + NAA 40 ppm + urea 1.5 %) spray therapy. The increase in ascorbic acid content has been demonstrated due to metabolic activities involving specific enzymes and metabolic ions under the influence of plant growth regulators and urea. The ascorbic acid content improvement may be attributable to the actual synthesis of glucose-6 phosphate during fruit growth and development, which is thought to be a precursor to ascorbic acid (vitamin C). With the use of plant growth regulators like GA3 and NAA as well as the strengthening of the nitrogen nutrient, it may have occurred rather frequently (urea). These results are consistent with the reports of Singh and Shukla (1978); Masalkar and Wavhal (1991); Singh et al. (2001) in Ber, Kher et al. (2005); Singh et al. (2010) in guava, and Singh and Singh (2015) in Aonla.\r\nAcidity (%): The data scenario showed that urea and growth regulators reduced the acidity of Ber fruit. Treatment of T3 and T1 displayed 0.37 and 0.36 % acidity content, respectively, whereas treatment of control (T0) substantially indicated a maximum acidity content of 0.39 % in Ber fruit. In this regard, throughout the research, the plants treated with T8 (GA3 20 ppm + NAA 40 ppm + urea 1.5%) reported 0.15 % considerably lower acidity. The range of the acidity content was, correspondingly, 0.15 to 0.39 %. The treatment of T8 (GA3 20 ppm + NAA 40 ppm + urea 1.5%) resulted in a reduction of 61.53 % in the acidity content of Ber fruit. It indicates that under the influence of growth regulators, acid content may have been either quickly transformed into sugars and their derivatives by a mechanism involving the reverse glycolytic pathway or may have been employed in respiration, or both. It clearly functioned under the impact of GA3 and NAA in particular, which strengthened the nitrogen phenomenon (urea). These results are consistent with the reports of Shukla and Singh (1998); Masalkar and Wavhal (1991); Singh et al. (2001) in Ber, Kheret al. (2005); Singh et al. (2010) in guava, and Singh and Singh (2015) in Aonla.\r\nTotal sugars (%): The total sugar percentage of Ber fruit was strongly and consistently altered by the effects of plant growth regulators and urea concentrations. According to this theory, sprays of treatment T8 (GA3 20 ppm + NAA 40 ppm + urea 1.5 %) increased the amount of total sugar in Ber fruit by 9.85 %. Control plants, or untreated plants, had a considerably lower 8.15 % total sugar percentage in Ber fruit. 8.15 to 9.85 % of total sugar was noted. As a result, sprays of treatment T8 (GA3 20 ppm + NAA 40 ppm + urea 1.5 %) above control showed the greatest improvement in total sugar percentage at 20.85%. Fruit sweetness may have improved as a result of increased photosynthetic activity, increased carbohydrate content production, and enhanced carbohydrate translocations with the fruits. Sugars are crucially transformed into their compounds by reactions involving numerous glycolytic pathways under the control of growth regulators. Nitrogen significantly strengthened the activity in this phenomenon. The reports by Kale et al. (1999); Yadav and Singh (2001); Bhati and Yadav (2003); Katiyar et al. (2010) in Ber, and Singh and Singh (2015) in Aonla are all in agreement with these findings.\r\nNumerous researches on different fruit crops, including Ber, have been conducted. Many scientists have sometimes studied on this topic. They failed, nevertheless, in this regard. Gibberellins are commercially used to improve the fruit quality of crops including apples, grapes, citrus, grapefruit, and berries. Gibberellins have mostly been used to change a variety of physiological processes. Grapes have undergone modifications to three physiological processes, including rachis cell elongation, floral thinning, and berry enlargement. The capacity of GA3 to delay fruit senescence has also been utilized by citrus, and more recent study suggests that GA3 may even promote apple blossoming. According to research by Godara et al. (2001); Kale et al. (1999) and Gill and Bal (2013).\r\n \r\n','Trivendra Kumar, Deepak Kumar, Vishal Gangwar, Navdeep Singh, Rakesh Kumar Gautam, Nitin Kumar Chouhan1and Suneel Kumar Patel (2022). Effect of Foliar Application of Ga3, Naa and Urea on Fruit Quality Attributes of Ber (Zizyphus mauritiana Lamk.) cv. Banarasi Karaka. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 14(3): 635-638.'),(5337,'136','Morphological Diversity in certain Turmeric (Curcuma longa L.) Cultivars under Salinity Stress','Bandi Arpitha Shankar, Vaishali, M.K. Yadav, Mukesh Kumar, Bijendra Singh, Naresh Pratap Singh, Vishakha Burman, Ravi Kumar and Vishwajeeth Yadav','108 Morphological Diversity in certain Turmeric (Curcuma longa L.) Cultivars under Salinity Stress Bandi Arpitha Shankar.pdf','',1,'Five robust turmeric germplasms are selected from the Horticulture Research Center, where the climatic conditions were highly humid and the soils were prone to maximum salinity. These cultivars were compared for their morphological parameters under salt stress conditions. These parameters were observed, 140 days after the sowing of the selected turmeric germplasms and 90 days after the salinity treatment. These cultivars, were observed for five prominent morphological characteristics that are important i.e., plant height, longest leaf length, longest leaf width, number of leaves, and number of tillers. These morphological parameters are checked in order to identify the ability of the plants to tolerate the stress conditions and to check the effect of salt stress on the growing turmeric cultivars. The data analysis of the obtained morphological parameters is done by FCRD method, by using R-software along with DMRT observations. These two methods, were accurate and effective in analyzing the morphological data with three treatments and five cultivars. Therefore, Vallabh Sharad and New Selection 1 are observed to be able to cope with high salt conditions and can be recommended as the important cultivars for the farmers in and around Uttar Pradesh.','Factorial CRD, Salinity stress, Morphological parameters, DMRT, Tolerant cultivars','To conclude, the FCRD method using R-software along with DMRT was determined to be a successful and accurate software in analyzing the morphological data against salinity stress on all the five cultivars of turmeric along with the treatments. It was understood that any turmeric plants with maximum height, large leaf area, longest leaf length, maximum number of leaves and tillers indicates healthy growing conditions and were advisable for the cultivation. If these parameters were also achieved even under severe salinity stress conditions which indicates that the crop was able to withstand the stress conditions and promote maximum growth so that the growth of the rhizomes will be affected in a positive way along with the curcumin content should be taken into consideration and the breeding objectives of such cultivars needs to be improved. Therefore, in our study Vallabh Sharad followed by New Selection 1 can be considered as the crops to be cultivated under salt stress conditions as their mean values and their growth patterns were almost similar to their controls in that very particular stage. It was also advisable that this North East Indian region which has maximum genetic diversity and many turmeric cultivars should be considered for maximum experimentation with this regard. ','INTRODUCTION\r\nThe Zingiberaceae family consists of many species with several useful properties. These species are named important after understanding their medicinal and therapeutic properties. They are used in many industries to make useful products and are well-known in the beauty world (Chakraborty et al., 2019). Out of all the available species in this family, turmeric and ginger are known to play major roles in promoting several health benefits and therapeutic properties (Zhang and Kitts 2021). Compared to ginger, turmeric is used in almost all the dishes and considered to be medicinal which can be taken raw in a powder form or added in the curries (Edwards et al., 2020). Turmeric is commonly known as an herbaceous medicinal plant with anti-cancerous, anti- diabetic properties. Apart from these, this plant helps in the efficient functioning of the immune system and promotes anti-inflammatory properties (Scott et al., 2020). Along with this, curcuminoids present in these plants helps in curing many neurological disorders and cancerous properties. It is observed that, the daily intake of one table spoon of the turmeric powder is advisable for proper functioning of human body.\r\nIndia is considered as the top most producer and exporter of turmeric powder with high curcuminoid value to many countries like USA, UK, Japan and Russia. The turmeric powder is considered very auspicious and used for many rituals and ceremonies as well (Alizedeh et al., 2019). Also, the turmeric powder adds aroma, taste and spice to the dishes due to which almost all the dishes prepared across the globe uses a pinch of this powder (Cowell et al., 2017). All Indian delicacies need turmeric powder to improve the color and aroma of the dish. India is also known for its diverse turmeric germplasms with maximum benefits some tolerant to biotic stresses, other towards abiotic stresses and certain species tolerant to the changes in the environment (Akter et al., 2019). Almost 40 species are recorded in each area of South East Asia with India being the topmost producer of turmeric whose genetic nature is triploid (2n= 3x= 63) (Verma et al., 2018).\r\nAlthough there are many advantages with this crop, few disadvantages are noticed with respect to their resistance against abiotic stresses (Forsyth et al., 2019). Almost all the cultivars of turmeric are resistant to abiotic stresses up to certain level but, few varieties are susceptible with maximum yield losses ((Meng et al., 2018). The important stress observed these days is salinity stress which causes a serious havoc to the growing crops by arresting their growth with many symptoms ultimately leading to the death of these crops under maximum salt concentrations (Wang et al., 2021).\r\nRecent studies revealed that, the salinity stress has maximum influence on the growth and development of the turmeric cultivars especially effecting the morphological parameters which in turn effects the growth and development of the underground rhizomes (Smith et al., 2019). Not many experiments are conducted regarding salinity stress in turmeric cultivars also, not many cultivars are included in the studies so far (White et al., 2019). This can be due to the long-life cycle of the crop and improper adaptability of the turmeric crops to the surrounding environmental conditions. To understand the effect of salinity in the growing turmeric cultivars, five turmeric cultivars belonging to UP are selected and the growth conditions are observed three months after the salinity treatment (Sanidad et al., 2019).\r\nTherefore, our study is aimed to understand the growth of the turmeric cultivars imposed by salinity stress in two treatments i.e., 50mM concentration and 100mM concentrations along with their controls for comparison. Different morphological parameters are checked in the plants, three months after the salinity treatment i.e., 140 days after sowing and 90 days after salt treatment. The observations are recorded in order to observe the fluctuations in the growth of the turmeric cultivars because, the increase in the foliage aids in the growth of the underground rhizomes which is the major economical part of the turmeric crop.\r\nMATERIAL AND METHODS\r\nFive turmeric cultivars were selected form the Horticulture Research Center, Dept. of Horticulture, SVPUA&T, Meerut. These cultivars were developed and thoroughly checked for their characters in UP, these cultivars include Vallabh Sharad, New Selection 1, Vallabh Priya, Azad and New Selection 2. The experiment was conducted in pot culture which was maintained under lab conditions in the Dept. of Ag. Biotechnology, SVPUA&T, Meerut.\r\nDifferent growth parameters were examined up to certain growth period of the turmeric cultivars i.e., 140 days after sowing and 90 days after the salt treatment. The values observed and recorded were analyzed using FCRD (Factorial Completely randomized Design) method using R-software along with the DMRT (Duncan Multiple Range Test) which was indicated by alphabets to identify the treatments and cultivars that were on-par with each other and that show significant variations among them (Dafaallah et al., 2019).\r\nIn this experiment, a total of five cultivars with three replications each including control, 50mM and 100mM concentrations were sown at the same time in pot culture. The salt stress was given to the plant 45 days after sowing and allowed to absorb maximum salt water to impose severe stress conditions. 90 days after the treatment the plants were observed for certain morphological parameters like plant height, longest leaf length, longest leaf width, number of leaves and number of tillers in control, 50mM and 100mM concentrations respectively. All the details and their means were recorded carefully to observe the highest and the least responsive cultivars towards salinity stress conditions. Along with this the mean values, standard deviation, standard error and CV was also determined using the R- software. \r\nRESULTS AND DISCUSSIONS\r\nDifferent morphological parameters suitable for that particular growth period were recorded carefully in order to observe the maximum tolerant cultivars to the least tolerant cultivar in the selected turmeric germplasms for the experiment.\r\nAll the turmeric cultivars selected for salinity treatment were observed for the changes in their morphological parameters in this stage (three months after salinity treatment) (Fig. 1). Although in previous stages it was observed that Vallabh Sharad gave maximum followed by new Selection1 compared to all the other varieties under salt stress conditions. Therefore, in this stage it was observed that Vallabh Sharad gave maximum plant height compared to other cultivars i.e., 24.5±0.177, 22.5±0.077 and 22.3±0.248 for control, 50mM and 100mM concentrations. Also, New Selction1 gave positive results little lesser than that of Vallabh Sharad i.e., 23.7±0.321, 19.8±0.883 and 20.1±0.561 for control, 50mM and 100mM concentrations respectively. Not only this but for longest leaf length Vallabh Sharda gave maximum growth followed by New Selction1 i.e., 12.6±0.27, 11.9±0.27 and 12.1±27 foe control, 50mM and 100mM respectively for Vallabh Sharad and 11.4±0.07, 11.3±0.07 and 11.5±0.115 for control, 50mM and 100mM treatments for New Selection1. Also, Vallabh Sharad gave maximum growth for longest leaf width i.e., 4.6±0.314, 4.3±0.327 and 4.6±0.127 for control, 50mM and 100mM concentrations followed by 4.1±0.075, 4.2◦±0.073 and 4.4±0.053 for New Selection 1 for same treatments. Not only this the total number of leaves and tillers were maximum for Vallabh Sharad i.e., 8±0.043, 7±0.01 and 7±0.042 for total leaves and 5±0.094, 4±0.024 and 3±0.347 for number of tillers under control, 50mM and 100mM concentrations, followed by New Selection1 i.e., 6±0.121, 7±0.118 and 7±0.073 for total leaves and 5±0.062, 4±0.048 and 4±0.023 for tillers under control, 50mM and 100mM concentrations respectively (Table 1). Therefore, the individual parameters were observed for growth under salt stress conditions in this stage. \r\nPlant Height: The maximum plant height was observed in Vallabh Sharad i.e., 24.5, 22.5 and 22.3 for control, 50mM and 100mM followed by New Selection1 i.e., 23.7, 19.8 and 20.10 for control, 50mM and 100mM conditions. Therefore, it was clear that these two cultivars gave maximum increase in their plant height compared to other cultivars even under salt stress condition in this stage (Fig. 2). It was observed that the plant height in Vallabh Sharad and New selection1 increased in comparison to the previous stages by 1 – 1.5 cms each, whereas in other cultivars there is not much increase in the plant height i.e., hardly found to be in millimeters (Mohan et al., 2017). \r\nAlso, in case of DMRT for the treatments it was observed that the 50mM and 100mM were on-par with each compared to control which was expected to be showing significant variation with these two treatments. Whereas, in case of the cultivars, Vallabh Sharad and New Selection 1 i.e., 23.10 and 21.20 respectively, showed significant variations compared to Vallabh Priya, Azad and New Selection 2 with their mean values 17.77, 17.07 and 17.10 respectively, so referred to be on-par with each other. Along with this the CV value of 4.69 indicates that there is significance in the treatment (Table 2). \r\nLongest Leaf length: The longest leaf length was maximum observed in Vallabh Sharad i.e., 12.6, 11.9 and 12.1 respectively in control, 50mM and 100mM which was followed by New Selection1 i.e., 11.4,11.3 and 11.5 for New Selection1 respectively in all the treatments. These two varieties gave maximum longest leaf length compared to previous stages (Fig. 3). Also, rest of the cultivars showed little increase in the longest leaf length compared to Vallabh Sharad and New Selection1. It was observed that the other cultivars did not increase much in this stage compared to previous stages (Chander et al., 2016). \r\nAlso, in case of DMRT the mean values in case of treatments and cultivars were observed to show significant difference with each other and no any related values with each other. In case of treatments, it was observed that all the treatments were significantly different with each other i.e., 10.44, 9.72 and 9.38 for control, 50mM and 100mM even in case of the cultivars significant difference was observed with each other i.e., 12.2, 11.4, 9.0, 8.6 and 8.1 respectively for each of the cultivar (Table 3). Also, the CV value of 2.75 indicates the significance of the treatment.\r\nLongest leaf width: The longest leaf width was maximum in case of Vallabh Sharad i.e., 4.60, 4.30 and 4.60 respectively for control, 50mM and 100mM followed by new Selection1 i.e., 4.10, 4.20 and 4.40 respectively for control, 50mM and 100mM (Kadam et al., 2020). The other cultivars were known to show less leaf width compared to these two cultivars (Fig. 4). \r\nIn case of DMRT, it was observed that there was significant variation in all the treatments and cultivars as well. In case of treatments 50mM and 100mM i.e., 3.82 and 3.92 were on-par with each other compared to control i.e., 3.48 as it is showing significant variation compared to other treatments. Also, in cultivars Vallabh Priya and Azad were on-par with each other i.e., 3.47 and 3.40 compared to other cultivars which were showing significant variations among them i.e., 4.5, 4.23 and 3.10 for Vallabh Sharad, New Selection 1 and New Selection 2 (Table 4). Also, the CV value of 4.55 indicates that there is significance in the treatment. \r\nNumber of leaves: It was observed that the maximum number of leaves were observed in case of Vallabh Sharad i.e., 8, 7 and 7 respectively in all the treatments followed by New Selction1 i.e., 6, 7 and 7 respectively for control, 50mM and 100mM (Kumar et al., 2018). These two cultivars gave maximum number of leaves compared to other cultivars in this stage (Fig. 5). \r\nIn case of DMRT, it was observed that control and 50mM i.e., 5.40 and 5.60 respectively were on-par with each other compared to 100mM i.e., 5.0 which was showing significant variation with the other treatments. Also, in case of cultivars Azad and New Slection2 were observed to be on-par with each compared to other cultivars i.e., 3.67 and 3.67 respectively followed by Vallabh Sharad, New Selection 1 and Vallabh Priya i.e., 7.33, 6.67 and 5.33 respectively (Table 5). Also, the CV value of 5.55 indicates maximum significance in the treatment. \r\nNumber of tillers: Cultivars Vallabh Sharad and New Selection1 gave maximum number of tillers in this stage compared to other cultivars with their mean values 5, 4 and 4 respectively for both the cultivars in control, 50mM and 100mM concentrations (Fig. 6) (Mane et al., 2018).\r\nIn case of DMRT, all the treatments showed significant variations among them i.e., 4.4, 3.4 and 3.2 respectively for control, 50mM and 100mM concentrations. Also, in case of cultivars, Vallabh Sharad and New Selection1 were on-par with each other with mean values 4.3 and 4.3 respectively, followed by Vallabh Priya and Azad i.e., 3.3 and 3.3 respectively whereas, New Selction2 showed significant variation compared to the other cultivars i.e., 3.0. Along with this, the CV value of 4.68 indicates that the treatment is significant (Table 6). \r\nTherefore, in our study with respect to morphological parameters in this stage suggests that there is significant reduction of certain parameters like plant height and longest leaf length where control is maximum compared to the treatments but under such conditions, 100mM concentrations gave better results compared to 50mM concentrations for these two parameters in this stage for Vallabh Sharad followed by New Selection 1 compared to other cultivars, with differences in their mean values indicated by using DMRT.\r\nAlso, in case of longest leaf width 100mM was observed to show maximum increase compared to controls in each of the cultivar and was recorded maximum in case of Vallabh Sharad followed by New Selection1 in this stage followed by the observations of their means recorded using DMRT. \r\nFinally in this stage, it was observed that the total number of leaves and tillers were maximum in case of controls, and reduced in 50mM and 100mM in all the cultivars but maximum number of leaves and tillers were recorded in Vallabh Sharad and New Selection1. Therefore, our study indicates that Vallabh Sharad followed by New Selection1 gave maximum plant height in controls and treatments. \r\n','Bandi Arpitha Shankar, Vaishali, M.K. Yadav, Mukesh Kumar, Bijendra Singh, Naresh Pratap Singh, Vishakha Burman, Ravi Kumar and Vishwajeeth Yadav (2022). Morphological Diversity in certain Turmeric (Curcuma longaL.) Cultivars under Salinity Stress. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 14(3): 639-646.'),(5338,'136','Zn-seed Treatments to Enhance Seedling Vigour of Mungbean (Vigna radiata L.)','M.M. Mrinali, K.K. Singh, S.P. Datta, M.C. Meena, H.S. Dikshit, Sherry Rachel Jacob, Amitha S.V.C. R. Mithra and M.B. Arun Kumar\r\n','109 Zn-seed Treatments to Enhance Seedling Vigour of Mungbean (Vigna radiata L.) Mrinali M M.pdf','',1,'Low productivity of mungbean (Vigna radiata (L.) Wilczek is mainly attributed to poor crop establishment and its cultivation in Zn deficient soils of arid and semiarid regions. Zn-seed treatments have the potential to address the issues associated with poor crop establishment as well as soil Zn- deficiency. In the present study Zn-seed priming and Zn-seed coating treatments were standardized to enhance the early seedling vigour characters, which facilitate in better crop establishment. Among the Zn concentrations (300 ppm, 450 ppm, 600 ppm and 750 ppm) studied, priming seeds with 450 ppm Zn solution at at 25 ± 2°C for 9 hours was found to the best in enhancing the germination percentage (98.00), seedling length (37.76 cm), seedling dry weight (0.2786 g), seed vigour index I (3701.95) and II (26.28) when compared to the control and hydro-primed seeds. Among the fertilizers used (Zn- NCPC fertilizer, Amino acid chelated Zn fertilizer and EDTA chelated Zn fertilizer), seeds coated with mixture of Zn-NCPC fertilizer and chalk powder in 1:4 proportion was found to be the best seed coating treatment. Seed coating with Zn-NCPC (1:4) has manifested in significantly higher germination percentage (98.33), seedling length (38.18 cm), seedling dry weight (0.2864 g), seed vigour index I (3756.64) and II (28.17) when compared to the control. Coating seeds with either Amino acid chelated Zn fertilizer or EDTA chelated Zn fertilizer did not have any beneficial effects in comparison to the control.','Mungbean, seedling vigour, germination, Zinc-priming, Zinc-seed coating, Zn-Nano Clay Polymer Composite (Zn-NCPC), Amino acid chelated Zn, EDTA chelated Zn','Lower productivity of mungbean is attributed to poor crop establishment as well as its cultivation in Zn deficient soils. Seed treatments that enhance the seedling vigour parameters as well as supplement the Zn like Zn-seed priming and seed coating with Zn fertilizers could address the said problem. Hence, the present study was undertaken to standardize the Zn-seed treatments in Mungbean. It was found that priming seeds with 450 ppm Zn solution for 9 hrs. at 25 ± 2°C has significantly enhanced the seedling vigour characters in comparison to control and hydro-primed seeds. Among the Zn-fertilizers used, Zn-NCPC fertilizer was found to highly suitable for seed coating (in 1:4 combination) with significant positive results. Where as Amino acid chelated Zn fertilizer and EDTA chelated Zn fertilizer were not found suitable for seed coating to enhance the seedling vigour characters.','INTRODUCTION\r\nMungbean or green gram is an important pulse crop in cereal-based cropping systems of South Asia, East Asia and South-East Asia. In India, it is an important subsistence crop adding essential nutrients to the diets especially protein, iron, zinc, phosphorus and potassium. Though, India is the largest producer, accounting for 30 percentage of the global mungbean production (Nair and Schreinemachers 2020), it still imports mungbean from other countries (Mynmar, Kenya, Mozambique, Australia and Tanzania) to meet the huge consumption demand. Indian mungbean productivity (538.65 kg ha-1 in 2020-21) is 1.34 times below the global average productivity (721 kg ha-1) (Nair and Schreinemachers 2020), which is mainly attributed to poor crop establishment (Naseem et al., 1997; Bjelica, 2016; Rahmianna et al., 2000; Ashraf and Foolad 2005). Like any other pulse crop, mungbean is cultivated in marginal lands of arid and semiarid areas, where the crop suffers from water deficit due to erratic rainfall and soil nutrients deficiencies specially of zinc. Under such situations, inclusion of seeds with high initial seedling vigour in crop cultivation leads to better crop establishment (Kumar et al., 2002).\r\nSeed being a living entity, its quality is bound to deteriorate from harvesting to till its sowing in field, if not handled properly (Jacob et al., 2016). Micronutrient seed treatments were found to be effective in enhancing early seedling vigour, crop establishment, crop growth and yield, besides overcoming the particular soil nutrient deficiency in crop (Farooq et al., 2012). Zinc seed treatment has been found to enhance the early seedling vigour; thereby crop establishment and also could overcome soil Zn deficiency resulting in higher yields and grain Zn fortification in many crops (Rehman et al., 2015, 2018a, 2018b; Rehman and Farooq 2016; Farooq et al., 2018; Ullah et al., 2019a, 2019b, 2019c). In mungbean cultivation areas, as initial crop establishment problem is also associated with soil Zn deficiencies, the present study was undertaken to standardize a suitable Zn-seed treatments that could enhance the early seedling vigour of mungbean seeds.\r\nMATERIAL AND METHODS\r\nPlant material. Seeds of mungbean variety PUSA Vishal were collected from Seed Production Unit, IARI, New Delhi for conducting the present investigation. Variety PUSA Vishal was selected because of its bold seeded nature and resistance to Mungbean Yellow Vein Mosaic Virus (MYMV).\r\nZinc Fertilizers. The required Zn fertilizer for seed priming (ZnSO4.7H2O) was procured form Sigma-Aldrich®, USA. Zn-loaded Nano Clay Polymer Composite (Zn-NCPC), which was used for seed coating experiment was obtained from Division of Soil Science and Agricultural Chemistry, ICAR-IARI, New Delhi. Amino acid chelated Zn fertilizer and EDTA chelated Zn fertilizer, which were used for seed coating experiment were purchased from local Delhi market. Zn content in all the Zn sources used differed. It was 22.74 per cent in ZnSO4.7H2O, 10 per cent in Zn-NCPC fertilizer, 12 per cent each in Amino acid chelated Zn fertilizer and EDTA chelated Zn fertilizer.\r\nTreating seeds with Zn solution. To identify the optimum Zn concentration for mungbean seed priming, batches of 100 seeds in 3 replicates were placed in the circular shaped boxes of size 16 cm diameter and 5 cm height, which contained two layers of filter papers that were submerged with 20 ml of ZnSO4.7H2O solutions of different Zn concentration (300 ppm, 450 ppm, 600 ppm and 700 ppm) as per the treatment. Then each box was incubated in an incubator maintained at 25 ± 2°C for 9 hours duration (duration of incubation as per the standardized hydropriming treatment of lab. Data not shown). At the end of incubation duration, three boxes representing three replicates of a particular Zn concentration was taken out and seeds were dried back to original seed moisture content (9 per cent) by spreading them on the blotter paper under the fan. For hydropriming, seeds were treated in same manner using only distilled water without any Zn supplementation in water. Seeds without any treatment (hydropriming and Zn-priming) were used as control. Thus, treated seeds along with control were subjected to germination test following the method recommended by ISTA (2018) and observations were recorded at the end of germination test. Germination percentage was calculated based on number of normal seedlings as follows:\r\nGermination percentage =\r\n \r\nTen normal seedlings were randomly selected and each seedling’s root length was measured on linear scale from the point of seed attachment to tip of the root. Similarly, shoot length of selected ten normal seedlings was measured on linear scale from the point of seed attachment to the tip of the plumule. Seedling length of the individual selected ten normal seedlings was obtained by adding the root length and shoot length of the respective seedling. The average shoot length, root length and seedling length of ten seedlings was used for the statistical analysis. After taking the individual seedling length of ten randomly selected normal seedlings, the fresh weight of all the seedlings together, was taken using the four digit analytical balance. Then, the seedlings were dried collectively overnight in an oven set at 90°C ± 2°C and the dry weight was measured using four digit analytical balance, which later was used for statistical analysis. Seed vigour index-I and seed vigour index-II were calculated using the following formula (Abdul-Baki and Anderson, 1973):\r\nVigour index I = Average seedling length of 10 seedlings (cm) × germination percentage Vigour index II = Seedling dry weight of 10 seedlings (g) × germination percentage\r\nCoating seeds with Zn-fertilizer. In the present study we have attempted to explore the possibilities of delivering the Zn fertilizers (Zn-NCPC fertilizer, Amino acid chelated Zn fertilizer and EDTA chelated Zn fertilizer) as seed coats. Mungbean seeds were coated with respective Zn fertilizers in seed coating machine using gum Arabic as binder as per the manufacturer’s instructions manual of seed coating equipment (model ‘SATEC Concept ML 2000’ of SATEC Equipment GmbH, Germany). Around 250 g of seeds were first coated with gum Arabic solution and then coated with dry powder of Zn-NCPC fertilizer and chalk powder mixture mixed in different proportions viz., 1:1, 1:2, 1:3, 1:4, 1:5 and 1:6 on volume basis. Similarly, another batch of 250 g seeds each, were coated using either Amino acid chelated Zn-fertilizer or EDTA chelated Zn-fertilizer and chalk powder mixture mixed in different proportions (1:1, 1:2, 1:3, 1:4, 1:5, 1:6 and 1:7 on volume basis) separately. After coating with the respective fertilizers, seeds were dried overnight under the fan and subjected to germination test as per ISTA (2018) and observations on germination percentage, seedling root length, seedling shoot length, seedling length, seedling dry weight, Seed vigour index-I and seed vigour index-II were taken as detailed above. Seeds without any coatings were used as control.\r\nStatistical analysis. All the experimental analysis were subjected to single factor ANOVA analysis of completely Randomized Design using SPSS 13 and Critical Difference (CD) values was calculated at p=0.05 to compare the difference between the treatments of the respective experiments.\r\n\r\nRESULTS AND DISCUSSION\r\nDuring the financial year 2018-19, India imported 0.57 million tonnes of mungbean, which accounted for 22.71 per cent of the total pulses imported (Anonymous, 2019), indicating that the mungbean domestic demand is around 24.44 per cent more than the quantity being produced. Thus, productivity deficit and consumption demand, warrants immediate strategies to increase the mungbean productivity, which is lower than global average productivity. In majority of the mungbean cultivation areas, limited crop establishment and soil Zn deficiency are the major constraints for the lower productivity. To address this, enhancing the mung bean seed quality through Zn-seed treatment is the better alternative, which addresses the problems associated with both crop establishment as well as soil Zn deficiency. Hence, in the present investigation, we standardized the Zn-seed treatments viz., Zn- priming and seed coating with different Zn-fertilizers, to identify the best Zn-seed treatment, which could be used during mungbean cultivation. The obtained results during the process are detailed below:\r\nZn-priming. Priming of mungbean seeds with ZnSO4 had a significant effect on the seed quality parameters compared to control (Table 1). Seed priming with 450 ppm Zn at 25 ± 2 °C for 9 hours has manifested in significantly higher germination percentage (98.00), seedling length (37.76 cm), seedling dry weight (0.2786 g), seed vigour index I (3701.95) and II (26.28) when compared to the control and hydro- primed seeds. Better seedling vigour parameters in 450ppm Zn-primed seeds in comparison to control and hydro-primed seeds is attributed to the involvement of Zn in cell division, cell proliferation, protein synthesis and retaining membrane structure (Sarwar, 2011). Similar results enhanced seedling vigour parameters were reported in mungbean for Zn-seed priming (Haider et al., 2020) and Phosphorus-seed priming (Al-Salhy and Rasheed, 2020). With the increase in concentration of Zn (600 ppm and 750 ppm), there was a decrease in seedling vigour parameters, which could be attributed to the possible Zn toxicity at 600 and 750 ppm as reported in case of boron seed priming and Zn-priming (Farooq et al., 2011; Rehman et al., 2013; Haider et al., 2020). Priming the mungbean seeds at Zn concentration affects cellular antioxidant enzymes system leading to decreased seedling vigour parameters and failure of seed to germinate at extreme higher Zn concentration (Khan et al., 2021).\r\nAs SVI-I and SVI-II values account for the germination s well as seedling growth potential that directly influence the crop stand establishment under field conditions, seed priming with 450 ppm Zn solution for 9 hrs. at 25 ± 2°C is best suited for getting the better crop establishment in mungbean.\r\nSeed coating. Coating of mungbean seeds with Zn-NCPC had a significant effect on the seed quality parameters compared to control (Table 2). Seed coating with Zn-NCPC (1:4) has manifested in significantly higher germination percentage (98.33), seedling length (38.18 cm), seedling dry weight (0.2864 g), seed vigour index I (3756.64) and II (28.17) when compared to the control. Germination percentage of seeds coated with Zn-NCPC (1:1) has decreased in comparison to control as number of abnormal seedlings has increased. Whereas all other seedling vigour parameters (seedling length, seedling dry weight, vigour index I and II were found on par with the control. Similarly, seeds coated with amino acid chelated Zn fertilizer (1:7) has resulted in germination percentage (95.67), seedling length (31.96 cm), seedling dry weight (0.2483 g), seed vigour index I (3060.86) and II (23.77) that were on par to the control (Table 3). The seeds coated with higher dose of Amino acid chelated Zn fertilizer (1:1, 1:2 and 1:3) has significantly reduced seed germination in comparison to the control as the number of abnormal seedlings noticed were more. This could be because of the excessive Zn concentration as well as amino acids present in the fertilizer formulation. All the treatments combinations in case of seeds coated with EDTA chelated Zn fertilizer has significantly reduced all the seedling vigour parameters in comparison to control (Table 4).\r\nAmong the three fertilizers used, coating seeds with Zn-NCPC fertilizer (1:4) found to be the best as significant enhancement of early seedling vigour parameters were observed in comparison to control. Enhanced seedling vigour parameters in case of seeds coated with optimum dose of Zn-NCPC fertilizer could be attributed to the biological role played by the Zn element. At the time of seed germination and subsequent seedling growth, cell cycle, cell division, cell proliferation, cell elongation and seed reserve mobilization should happen at optimum phase and time, so that the resulting seedling will be of high vigour to surpass the suboptimal abiotic and biotic stresses. Zn being an essential structural entity of numerous enzymes; plays a crucial role in cell cycle, cell division, cell proliferation, cell metabolism, cell elongation, protein synthesis, structural integrity of cell, chlorophyll synthesis, water use efficiency, shoot and root structure, abiotic and biotic stress tolerance through suppression of Reactive Oxygen Species (ROS) and nitrogen fixation in legumes (Hassan et al., 2020; Hacisalihoglu, 2020) and seeds with higher intrinsic Zn concentration produce seedlings of high vigour than seeds of lower intrinsic Zn concentration, which facilitates in better crop establishment and in realization of better crop yields (Boonchuay et al., 2012; Cakmak, 2008).\r\n','M. M. Mrinali, K.K. Singh, S.P. Datta, M.C. Meena, H.S. Dikshit, Sherry Rachel Jacob, Amitha S.V.C. R. Mithra and M.B. Arun Kumar (2022). Zn-seed Treatments to Enhance Seedling Vigour of Mungbean (Vigna radiata L.). Biological Forum – An International Journal, 14(3): 647-652.'),(5339,'114','Study on Micelles Catalyzed Oxidation of Methanol by N-Chlorosaccharin','Neelam Singh and M.N. Swami','11 Study on Micelles Catalyzed Oxidation of Methanol by N-Chlorosaccharin Neelam Singh.pdf','',1,'This paper discusses the catalytic behaviour of cetyl trimethyl ammonium bromide (CTAB) of the oxidation of methanol by N-chlorosaccharin (NCSA) in acetic acid-H2O medium. The degree of dissociation of CTAB Micelles complex with substrate and NCSA of the order of 1 to 0 was reported. The reaction rate was found to increase with increase in H+ ion concentration and dielectric constant of the medium. The ionic strength of the medium showed stationary effect on rate. The plausible mechanism and solvophobic effect was verified by rate law and activation parameters. ','Oxidation, CTAB, Methanol, N-chlorosaccharin, Catalysis','CTAB catalyzed oxidation of methanol by NCSA was found to proceed through electrophilic attack of reacting species HOCl on alcohol, that leads to the formation of complex at transition state. The stoichiometry was observed 1:1 for the postulated mechanism of reaction between CH3OH and NCSA. The disproportionation of intermediate in slow steps lead to formation of formaldehyde as main product identified by forming 2:4 -DNP derivative. The proposed mechanism is apparently satisfied by kinetic results. ','I. INTRODUCTION\r\nCationic micelle i.e., cetyl trimethyl ammonium bromide (CTAB) is a complex mixture of organic compound used in colloidal form in various industrial processes which include solubilization, pharmacy and biochemical research [8]. The activity of CTAB lying between homogeneous and heterogenous catalysis. Micelles catalysed study is mainly due to the reasons that its rate is proportional to the enzyme concentration [2]. The specificity of the CTAB led to the postulate of a “lock-and-key” type of mechanism that follow Michaelis-Menten rate law depending on particular pH. The behaviour of CTAB for practical formulation in aqueous CH3COOH media would be associated with solvophobic interactions only [6]. It is believed that such a study could provide and shed new light into understanding the catalytic behaviour of cationic surfactant CTAB in oxidation of methanol in aqueous acetic acid medium.\r\nThe catalysed studies involving surfactant CTAB systems are well documented in journals and reviews for organic compounds with different oxidants [10, 11, 16].\r\nN-chlorosaccharin is a selective oxidant of halo group possesses ability to produce halonium ion, which an electrophilic is stabilized by resonance and used in oxidative degradation of hydroxy acids, alcohols, ketones, and amino acids [1, 4, 5, 9, 13]. A very few reports are available for the kinetic mechanistic study of alcohols by N-bromoisonicotinamide and pyridinium hydrobromide and per bromide, etc. [3, 14].\r\nII. MATERIALS AND METHODS \r\nThe methanol and CTAB from sigma were of AG grade used without purification as such received. The solution of CH3OH and NCSA of appropriate concentration was prepared by diluting it in doubly distilled water and acetic acid. The other solutions of reagents pertaining to the foregoing work were prepared of desired strength during the experiments. \r\nThe reaction was initiated under the condition [CH3OH] >> [NCSA] by mixing thermostated solutions of methanol and NCSA in presence of catalyst CTAB at equilibrated desired temperature. The reaction kinetics was monitored for unreacted NCSA by iodometric process at regular intervals of time. The rate constant (kobs) values were determined graphically which lie within ± 3% precision.\r\nIII. RESULTS AND DISCUSSION\r\n(a) The stoichiometry of the reaction was determined under prevailing conditions and unconsumed NCSA was estimated iodometrically revealing that the molar ratio (oxidant: methanol) observed 1:1, as depicted in equation. \r\n \r\n \r\nFormaldehyde was analyzed by modern technique and confirmed by forming 2:4 DNP compound (m.p. = 155°C). The free radical existence was over ruled by the addition of monomer acrylonitrile employing trapping method. \r\n(b) The variation of [NCSA] from 1.00 × 10-3 to 5.0 × 10-3 (mol dm-3) on rate of reaction afford order with respect to oxidant is unity as derived from the graphic slope.\r\n(c) A graphical presentation of the determination of five-fold concentration of CH3OH on rate at fixed conditions of other participating reagents and temperature (Table 1) gives ample of proof for complex formation at transition state (Plot of k vs. [CH3OH], showing 1 to 0 order reaction (Fig. 1). This was also verified by double reciprocal plot which yield positive slope on rate axis. \r\n(d) Appearances of unit slope by calculation (Table 2) in the log k vs. log [H+] plot (Fig. 2) were found to catalyze the reaction andis indicative of first-order kinetics for [H+] ions.\r\n(e) Acetic acid water mixtures (20-50%, (v/v)], are better solvents for this investigation and influence the permittivity of the medium. An increase in composition of acetic acid increases eventually the resulted rate. The ionic strength of the medium and salt effect on rate was assessed, which was quite negligible. The appearance of retardation in rate was observed as a common phenomenon in the presence of added saccharin, thus ignoring saccharin as a non-participating species in dealing the mechanism [12].\r\n(f) The effect of small sub micellar aggregates of the cationic surfactant CTAB exist below CMC and interact physically with the substrate forming catalytically active entities. The increase in kobs with [CTAB] may be attributed to increasing association/solubilization of the reactant species with increase in [CTAB] and indicating fractional-order kinetics and later decreases the rate. The reason was observed by Beregin’s model and other operative factors such as hydrophobicity, intramolecular rearrangement and the repulsive force between surfactant head groups, significantly in the case of charged surfactant CTAB [7, 15]. Another reason of decrease in kobs could be result of counter ion inhibition.\r\nMechanism. The similar reaction mechanism pertaining to the present investigation has already been communicated in our previous communication emanated from this laboratory for other aliphatic alcohols [16]. However, rate expression derived, using steady state treatment may be given in the following way:\r\n','-'),(5340,'136','Morphological Evaluation of Variability, Heritability and Genetic Advance in relation to Seed yield and its Attributing Traits in Indian Mustard [Brassica juncea (L.) Czern and Coss.]','Anjali*, Mukesh Kumar, Nirdesh Kumar Chaudhary, Shivani Ahlawat, Vivek Kumar, Raj Kumar, Supriya Singh and Shiva Mohan','110 Morphological Evaluation of Variability, Heritability and Genetic Advance in Relation to Seed yield and its Attributing Traits in Indian Mustard [Brassica juncea (L.) Czern and Coss.] Anjali.pdf','',1,'The present study was distributed for analyses the genetic heritability, variability and genetic advance for 12 quantitative traits. Use Randomized Block Design (RBD) with three replications for grown the 45 genotypes. Recorded the observat¬ions on three randomly selected plants from each genotype in each replication for the 12 characters viz. days to 50% flowering, seed filling period, days to maturity, length of main shoot, number of pods on main shoot, number of primary branches/plant, number of secondary branches per plant, plant height, number of seeds per pod, grain yield/plant, test weight and oil content. The high genotypic coefficient of variation (GCV) and phenotypic coefficient of variation (PCV) was observed for number of secondary branches/plant, grain yield per plant and number of primary branches/plant. There was least influence of environment within the expression of those traits. High heritability as well as high genetic advance recorded for number of secondary branches / plant, grain yield/ plant, number of primary branches/plant, length of main shoot, plant height, number of pods on main shoot, days to 50% flowering, test weight and number of seeds per pod. As a result, genotypes selection will be done directly through these characters for further improvement of genotypes of Brassica juncea. Based on the findings of the preceding research, it will be concluded that due weightage should incline to number of secondary branches/plant, grain yield/plant and number of primary branches / plant while enforcing genetic improvement through selection in mustard.','Variability, heritability, genetic advance, Indian mustard','Variance analysis demonstrated that the current set of breeding material had considerable genetic variance, and research into genetic factors using these genotypes worth valuable results. The current research into variability, heritability, and genetic advance suggested that to improve the grain yield per plant these traits could be used directly.','INTRODUCTION\r\nThe oilseed Brassica crop is extremely important to our country\'s agricultural economy. chinese mustard, B. napus, B. campestris syn rapa, and B. carinata, all of which belong to the tribe Brassiceae of the mustard family (Brassicaceae), are grown everywhere on the planet. The world\'s estimated rapeseed-mustard area, production, and yield were 36.59 M/ ha, 72.37 MT, and 1980 kg/ha, respectively during 2018–19. India accounts for 19.8% of total acreage and 9.8% of total production globally. Brassica juncea also called Rai, Raya, or Laha, could be a major rabi oilseed crop in India, accounting for around 7% of worldwide production. After soybean, it\'s India\'s second most generally farmed oilseed crop accounting for quite 80% of total rapeseed-mustard soil. However, this crop\'s productivity has been low, while oil demand has risen in tandem with the increase in population and economic status. This necessitates the event of novel strategies to extend the yield of this important oilseed crop. The genetic diversity within the gene pool determines what proportion yield may be increased in any crop. Mustard oil cakes are used for the feed of cows and buffaloes. It\'s wide selection of tastes from spicy to sweet and pungency also varies well from slightly to highly pungent. There is increasing interest in preparation of detoxified high functional mustard cake which is a good source of proteins and minerals. The seed of Brassica juncea contains 36 to 40 % oil and 38 to 41% protein and also have carbohydrates 4.51g, sugar 1.41g, dietary fiber 2g, fat 0.47g and protein 2.56g per 100g seeds. Indian cultivars have sufficient amount of two essential fatty acids, linoleic and linolenic.\r\nMustard oil has isothiocyanates contained answerable for its flavour and pungency (Park et al., 2018) mustard is that the nutritious and healthiest cooking medium because it contains 38 to 43 % oil, which is yellow and fragrant (Patel et al., 2012). The goals of Plant breeding is generating cultivars with higher yield require a more genetic variation (Joshi and Dhawan 1966), Pest resistance, greater acceptance, and desired quality (Nevo et al., 1982). The advance of a crop is basically passionate about the traits and magnitude of accessible genetic variability, heritability and therefore the transfer of desired characters into new varieties. The breeding programmes is success to enhanced when variability within the present genotypes is high, which permits the plant breeder to rapidly produce new varieties or improve existing ones.\r\nMATERIALS AND METHODS\r\nThe materials were collected for the present investigation consisted of 45 diverse strains of Indian Mustard (Brassica juncea L. Czern and Coss, 2n= 36) from the Department of Genetics and Plant Breeding, CSA University, Kanpur, IARI, New Delhi and CCSHAU, Hisar. Some of them were released varieties for different zones and other promising strains which were in advance stage of testing in All India coordinated or state varietal trials. Randomized Block Design (RBD) with three replications were used to grown all the 45 genotypes. The length of the rows was kept 4.0 meter and spacing between R × R 30 cm and P × P10 cm. Three competitive plants were selected randomly from each entry in each replication and were tagged for recording detailed field observations later on the data on yield and its components were recorded on these randomly selected plants except days to 50% flowering and days to maturity which were recorded on the plot basis. The experimental data were subjected to statistical analysis as following standard statistical procedure described Panse and Sukhatme (1969) to assess component of variance and coefficient of variation. Heritability – Allard (1960) and genetic advance - Johnson et al. (1955).\r\nRESULTS AND DISCUSSION\r\nThe importance of variance was investigated using the analysis of variance across 45 distinct Brassica juncea germplasm. The data was displayed in Table 1. For all 12 traits studied, including days to 50% flowering, seed filling period, days to maturity, length of main shoot, number of pods on main shoot, number of primary branches/plant, number of secondary branches/plant, plant height, number of seeds/pod, grain yield/plant, test weight, and oil content, the RBD analysis of variance revealed extremely significant differences between the materials used in this study. For these qualities, the phenotypic coefficient of variance was higher than the genotypic coefficient of variation. Number of secondary branches/plant (34.66%) and (34.96 %), grain yield/plant (31.80 %) and (32.12 %), and number primary branches/plant (20.25 %) all had significant GCV and PCV (20.74 %). Synrem et al. (2014); Singh et al. (2014) made similar observations. Moderate GCV and PCV number of pods on main shoot (17.63%) and (18.14%), days to 50% flowering (15.84%) and (16.43%), test weight (14.66%) and (15.31%), number of seeds per pod (14.03%) (15.31 %). PCV and GCV levels that are high and moderate suggest that these features can yet improve genotypes. It\'s worth noting that, for all of the qualities tested, PCV estimations were often not significantly higher than their corresponding GCV indicating that, in the manifestation of these traits, environment affect not much and additive gene effects, implying that genotypes can be improved and chosen for these characteristics The findings on heredity in general for seed yield and attributing factors found that heritability estimates ranged from 51.61 % (oil content) to 98.30 % (number of secondary branches/plant). The character number of secondary branches/ plant (98.30 %) had the highest heritability in the broad sense, followed by grain yield/plant (98.02 %), plant height (95.25 %), length of main shoot (95.05 %), number of pods on main shoot (94.40 %), days to 50 % flowering (92.93 %), test weight (91.69 %), number of seeds/ pod (90.92 %), days to mammalian reproduction (90.92 %), days (84.83 % ). Oil content was estimated to have a low heritability in a wide sense (51.61 %). In agreement with the findings of previous researchers such as Roy et al. (2015); Akoju et al. (2020); Rout et al (2021). The genetic advance was arbitrarily divided into three categories: high GA (more than 20%), moderate GA (10-20%), and low GA (less than 10%), (below 10 per cent). Number of secondary branches/plant (70.79 %), grain yield/plant (64.86 %), number of primary branches/plant (40.73 %), length of main shoot (39.94 %), plant height (39.72 %), number of pods on main shoot (35.28 %), days to 50% flowering (31.46 %), test weight (28.91 %), and number of seeds /pod(27.57 % ) all had high expected GA (>20 %) Seed filling period (11.43%) had a moderate GA (10-20%), although days to maturity (7.28%) and oil content estimation had a low GA in percent age of mean (10) (0.79 percent). For number of secondary branches /plant, grain yield / plant, number of primary branches / plant, length of main shoot, plant height, number of pods on main shoot, days to 50% flowering, test weight, and number of seeds/ pod, there was a high heritability combined with a high GA. As a result, for future enhancement of Brassica juncea genotypes, direct selection of germplasm can be done using these features. Lodhi et al. (2013) Jat et al. (2019); Yadav et al. (2020) have all reported similar findings Lakra et al. (2020). For the seed filling stage, there was a high heritability combined with a modest GA, implying that there could be more.\r\n','Anjali, Mukesh Kumar, Nirdesh Kumar Chaudhary, Shivani Ahlawat, Vivek Kumar, Raj Kumar, Supriya Singh and Shiva Mohan (2022). Morphological Evaluation of Variability, Heritability and Genetic Advance in Relation to Seed yield and its Attributing Traits in Indian Mustard [Brassica juncea (L.) Czern and Coss.]. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 14(3): 653-655.'),(5341,'136','Comparative Study on Chemical Composition of different Feeding Ingredients with Hydroponically Grown and Conventionally Grown Green Maize Fodder','M.V. Telgote*, S.D. Chavan, R.R. Shelke, S.P. Nage and K.U. Bidwe','111 Comparative Study on Chemical Composition of different Feeding Ingredients with Hydroponically Grown and Conventionally Grown Green Maize Fodder M. V. Telgote.pdf','',1,'In the present research study was undertaken at Livestock Instructional Farm, Dr. P.D.K.V., Akola during the year 2018 for a period of 90 days. Five feeding treatment were studied on calves, In hydroponic fodder production system, it can be possible to grow 6 to 8 kg of green fodder from 1kg seeds and in conventional fodder production we require minimum 60 days. The chemical composition i.e. dry matter, crude protein, ether extract, crude fibre, nitrogen free extract, total ash of all feeding material used in treatment (Tur straw, green fodder i.e. berseem, hydroponic maize, conventional maize, concentrate) were analyzed. The results obtained reveled that crude protein, crude fiber, ether extract were constantly increased in hydroponically grown fodder i.e. 14.10, 4.07, 75.12, 7.17 and 1.80 per cent, CP, EE, NFE, CF and Total ash respectively.','Hydroponic Green Maize, Conventional Green Maize, Yield, Chemical Composition','The hydroponic green maize, green maize, tur straw, berseem and concentrate mixture were containing on an average 11.10, 25.75, 94.13, 24.50 and 89.2 per cent DM respectively. While the CP content were 14.10, 9.83, 7.30, 14.50 and 19.65 per cent respectively. The chemical composition indicated that hydroponic green maize contained more NFE than that of other feed stuff. Similarly, the ash content of hydroponic maize fodder was on lower side.','INTRODUCTION\r\nFodder produced by growing plants in water or nutrient solution but without using any soil is known as hydroponic fodder or sprouted grains or sprouted fodder. Hydroponic plants are produced in greenhouses under controlled environment within a short period. The hydroponic green fodder production helps to solve this problem by producing food during drought and scarcity periods with acceptable fodder yields and great value. The science shows that, there is great nutritional benefit provided by hydroponic sprouted grain and it is suitable for all livestock including sheep, cattle, goat provides animals with improved growth and overall health. The hydroponic green fodder is produced from forage grains that are germinated and grown for short period of time inside special growing chambers, provided with the appropriate growing conditions (Sneath and McIntosh 2003). Hydroponic fodder is highly nutritious, disease-free animal food in a hygienic environment free of chemicals like insecticides, herbicides, fungicides and artificial growth promoters (Ak karaki and Al-Hashmi 2008). This process takes place in a very versatile and intensive hydroponic growing unit where only supplying cereal grain with necessary water, nutrients and sunlight to produce a grass and root combination that is very lush and high in nutrients. This green fodder is extremely high in protein and metabolizable energy, which is highly digestible by most animals (Ready et al., 2013). Hydroponics green fodder requires just 2-3 liters of water to produce one kg of lush green fodder, as compared to water required near about 60-80 liters for conventional system of fodder production. Hydroponics is a year-round growing system that produces a consistent quantity and quality of plant material or fodder, regardless of outside weather\r\nMATERIAL AND METHOD\r\nSelection of Animals \r\nTwenty crossbreed calves were selected. The calves were divided into five groups. Thus, each group was consisted of four calves for the study. \r\nCultivation of hydroponic maize fodder. Green maize was cultivated by hydroponic method. A hydroponic unit setup at livestock instructional farm using 75 per cent green shed net cover for maintain optimum temperature in the shed and ventilation with diameter of 15.0 × 22.0 ft. with 0.4 per cent slope for effective drainage of excess water. The internal structure was prepared by using galvanized stands with two shelves with capacity of 120 plastic trays, sized of 1.5 × 1 ft. equipped with semi-automated sprayer irrigation. The trays with hole at the base were to allow drainage of excess water. Water was free from any additives. The temperature and humidity inside the green shed net was controlled and maintain a range of 22-27oC temperature with 70 per cent relative humidity. Daily requirement of hydroponic maize fodder for experimental animals was obtained by rotational soaking and sprouting of maize seed. Average 6 kg hydroponic maize fodder was produced from 1 kg maize seeds on 8th day.\r\nProximate analysis of feeds and fodder. The samples of the dry roughages (Tur straw), hydroponic green maize, green fodder (green maize), berseem and concentrate mixture were analysed for the proximate principles viz., Dry matter, Crude protein, Crude fibre, Ether extract, Nitrogen free extract and Total ash was determined by adopting the process as prescribed by A.O.A.C., (1995). \r\n RESULT AND DISCUSSION\r\n Chemical composition. Chemical composition of feed stuff used in experiment period for feeding the crossbred calves is tabulated in Table 2.\r\nFrom Table 2, it was observed that, the per cent DM, CP, CF, EE, NFE and Ash from concentrate mixture were 89.2, 19.65, 6.10, 6.55 60.12 and 7.58 per cent respectively. The per cent DM, CP, CF, EE, NFE and Ash content in tur straw were 94.13, 7.30, 1.15, 42.50, 40.75 and 8.25 per cent respectively. The per cent DM, CP, CF, EE, NFE and Ash content in green maize were 25.75, 9.83, 33.13, 1.79, 49.92 and 8.12 per cent respectively. The per cent DM, CP, CF, EE, NFE and Ash content in berseem were 24.50, 14.50, 1.20, 51.90, 19.70 and 12.70 respectively.\r\nNaik et al. (2014) reported that increase (P<0.05) in the digestibility of CP and CF of the cows due to feeding of hydroponics maize fodder; however, the increase (P<0.05) in the digestibility of DM, OM, EE and NFE was non-significant (Table 2). Reddy Reddy et al. (1988) also observed significant increase in the digestibility (%) of DM, CP, CF, EE and NFE and concluded that the increase in the digestibility of the nutrients may be due to the tenderness of the fodder to its lower age. In the present investigation, the dry matter content in hydroponic maize fodder was found as 11.10 per cent. This value was in agreement with the result reported by Naik et al. (2014) in hydroponic maize fodder as 18.30 per cent and lower than values reported by Thadchanamoorthy et al. (2012) in hydroponic maize fodder as 26.07 per cent (reported moisture content as 73.93 per cent). The present value of crude protein was 14.10 per cent lower than findings reported by Thadchanamoorthy et al. (2012) in hydroponic maize fodder as 16.54 per cent and higher than the values reported by Naik et al. (2013) as 13.30-13.6 per cent, Singh (2011) as 13.57 per cent and Naik et al. (2014) as 13.30 per cent in hydroponic maize fodder.\r\nThe ether extract content observed in the present study was 4.07 per cent. The value reported by Thadchanamoorthy et al. (2012) in hydroponic maize fodder as 6.42 per cent was higher than the present value. The values reported by Naik et al. (2013) of 3.27-3.50 per cent, Singh (2011) as 3.49 per cent and Naik et al. (2014) as 3.27 per cent in hydroponic maize fodder were lower than the present findings. The comparable crude fiber content was reported by Naik et al. (2013) in hydroponic maize fodder as a range of 6.37-14.10 per cent. The higher value of crude fibre was reported by Singh (2011) as 14.07 per cent and lower values also reported by Thadchanamoorthy et al. (2012) as 8.21 per cent and Naik et al. (2014) as 6.37 per cent. \r\nIn the present investigation, the nitrogen free extract content of hydroponic maize fodder was found as 75.12 per cent. The comparable value of NFE was reported by Naik et al. (2013) in hydroponic maize fodder as range of 66.70-75.32 per cent. The higher value to the presently investigated result was reported by Naik et al. (2014) in hydroponic maize fodder as 75.32 per cent and lower values reported by Singh (2011) in hydroponic maize fodder as 66.72 per cent.\r\nThe value of total ash in hydroponic maize fodder was found to be 2.3 per cent agreement results were reported by Naik et al. (2013) in hydroponic maize fodder as a range of 1.75-3.80 per cent. The value reported by Singh (2011) in hydroponic maize fodder as 8.34 per cent was higher than the present findings where as values of Naik et al. (2014) in hydroponic maize fodder as 1.75 per cent were lower than the present findings. The value of CP, EE, CF, NFE and TA in green maize fodder were found to be 9.83, 1.79, 33.13, 49.92 and 8.12 per cent respectively. Agreement result were reported by Naik et al. (2012) in green maize fodder as a range of 10.67, 2.27, 25.92, 51.78 and 9.36 per cent\r\nKalyani et al. (2012) She reported the chemical composition on green maize is DM (25.75%), CP (9.76%), EE (1.17), CF (32.73%), TA (7.81%) and NFE (48.53%). Mandal and Banerjee (2009) shows chemical composition of berseem was 14.5, 19.7, 1.2, 51.9 and 12.7% CP, CF, EE, NFE and total ash respectively. Bhanderi et al. (2014) observed effect of feeding calf starter on daily weight gain, immune status and parasitic load in crossbred HF calves. He reported the chemical composition of green maize is CP (4.90), EE (1.75), TA (6.65) and OM (93.35) per cent respectively.\r\nThe present values of EE content of tur straw are in similar with those reported by Raut et al (2002); Rekahte et al. (2004); Rekhate et al. (2008); Reddy et al. (2012). The EE values of tur straw ranged from 1.17 to 1.41 per cent. The present value of EE in in tur straw was 1.15 per cent which appears to be slightly lower side. The NFE values of tur straw ranged from 37.86 to 42.53 per cent, the present value is 42.50 and appears between the same values.\r\n','M.V. Telgote, S.D. Chavan, R.R. Shelke, S.P. Nage and K.U. Bidwe (2022). Comparative Study on Chemical Composition of Different Feeding Ingredients with Hydroponically Grown and Conventionally Grown Green Maize Fodder. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 14(3): 656-659.'),(5342,'136','Effect of Rice based Ultra High Intensity Cropping System Models on Energetics under Irrigated Sub-Tropics of Jammu','Monika Menia, B.C. Sharma, A.P. Singh, Satesh Kumar, Vivak M. Arya, Manish K. Sharma and Amrish Vaid\r\n','112 Effect of Rice based Ultra High Intensity Cropping System Models on Energetics under Irrigated Sub-Tropics of Jammu Monika Menia.pdf','',1,'To feed the world’s growing population, more food needs to be produced either by expanding the net area under cultivation or intensifying cropping over the existing area. The use and cost of energy in agriculture have increased, making it necessary to make current agricultural practices more energy efficient. The present experiment was conducted at Research Farm, Faculty of Agriculture, SKUAST-Jammu, Main Campus, Chatha during kharif 2019 to summer season of 2020, to study the effect of rice based ultra high intensity cropping system models on energetics. The soil of the experimental site sandy loam in texture, slightly alkaline in reaction, but medium in organic carbon, available nitrogen, phosphorus and potassium with electrical conductivity in the safer range. The experiment comprised of five rice based cropping systems of cropping intensity varying from 300-600% viz. Rice (Basmati-370) – Wheat (HD-3086) – Cowpea (Lobia Super-60) having 300% cropping intensity, Rice (Basmati-564) – Potato (Kufri Badshah) – Wheat (Raj-3765) – Mixed fodder (Maize+Cowpea+Charri) having 400% cropping intensity, Rice (SJR-129) – Knolkhol (G-40) – Potato (Kufri Sindhuri) – Green gram (IPM-02-3) having 400% cropping intensity, Rice (Pusa-1121)– Radish (CR-45) – Green onion (Nasik Red) – French bean (Anupama) – Okra (Seli special) having 500% cropping intensity in relay cropping from French bean crop onwards) and Rice (IET-1410) – Fenugreek (JF-07) – Knolkhol (G-40) – Green onion (Nasik Red) – Dry onion (Selection-1) – Black gram (Pant U-19) having 600% cropping intensity in relay cropping from Knolkhol crop onwards. The experiment was conducted in randomized block design with four replications. Results revealed that the highest system energy input of 8.43 MJ ha-1 × 104 was worked out on the basis of energy incurred for the inputs utilized in production of crops in cropping system T4followed by system energy input of 7.10 MJ ha-1 × 104, 6.31 MJ ha-1 × 104 and 6.17MJ ha-1 × 104 with cropping systems T3, T5 and T2, respectively whereas the lowest system energy input of 2.30 MJ ha-1 × 104 was recorded in treatment T1. Significantly highest system energy output was recorded under treatment T4while treatment T1recorded significantly lowest system energy output. Significantly highest system net energy returns (28.09MJ ha-1 × 104) was recorded under treatment T4 while significantly lowest system net energy returns of 11.52MJ ha-1 × 104 was recorded with treatment T1. Significantly highest system energy efficiency, energy productivity and energy intensity were recorded with treatment T1.','Cropping systems, System energy output, System net energy returns, System energy productivity and Ultra high intensity','Based on results obtained from one year study, it can be concluded that cropping system Rice (Pusa-1121) – Radish (CR-45) – Green onion (Nasik Red) – French bean (Anupama) – Okra (Seli special) having 500% cropping intensity recorded highest system energy input and significantly highest system energy output and system net energy returns, however, cropping system T1 recorded significantly highest system energy efficiency, system energy productivity and system energy intensity.','INTRODUCTION\r\nGlobal food demand is increasing as the world’s population is increasing rapidly and will reach upto 9.6 billion by 2050 (Tripathi et al., 2019). To feed the world’s growing population, more food needs to be produced either by expanding the net area under cultivation or intensifying cropping over the existing area. In view of the limited scope for horizontal expansion to augment food production, the alternative is to concentrate on vertical growth by increasing the productivity of the available land area. An intensive cropping system should not only be highly productive and profitable but should also be stable over time. So, intensification of crops has been envisaged as a new strategy for enhancing and stabilizing productivity. Cereal based cropping systems, viz. rice-wheat and rice-rice are the major contributors to national food grain basket in India. Rice-wheat cropping system is being practiced in 13.50 million hectare across the Indo-Gangetic Plains of South Asia, contributing more than 30% and 40% to the total rice and wheat area, respectively (Gathala et al., 2011). Rice-wheat cropping system has been recognized as one of the most widely accepted cropping systems of the sub-tropical irrigated belt of the Union territory of Jammu and Kashmir. Since rice and wheat crops are the most promising crops of the irrigated sub-tropics of the UT of Jammu and Kashmir and it is not wise to sacrifice both of these crops in the intent to intensify the cropping systems and this cropping system is not energy efficient because it requires more energy. Therefore, it is pertinent that either of these two crops must be a part of the cropping systems which were considered for study to identify the highly intensive cropping systems involving other crops. The identification of short duration, high yielding cultivars of vegetable, pulse and fodder crops which fits well with different duration of rice types in different rice based cropping system models may help to realize more returns with maximum input use efficiency. Energy is one of the most valuable inputs in production oriented agriculture and mainstay of our nation’s economy. Alarming increase in population of our country needs nine billion joules of total energy for producing more than 250 million tonnes of food grain. In crop production large share of energy is used for land preparation (20-25%), fertilizers (25-30%) and irrigation (25-35%), which require commercial non-renewable sources of energy like petroleum products (Shilpha et al., 2018). The non-renewable energy is expensive and liable to exhaust in near future and in the present agriculture, the steady decline in energy-use efficiency is a matter of great concern. Therefore, it is essential to rationalize use of energy through identification of suitable energy efficient cropping systems to overcome the looming energy crises. \r\nMATERIALS AND METHODS\r\nThe experiment was conducted at Research Farm, Faculty of Agriculture, SKUAST-Jammu, Main Campus, Chatha during kharif 2019 to summer season of 2020. The soil of the experimental site sandy loam in texture, slightly alkaline in reaction, but medium in organic carbon, available nitrogen, phosphorus and potassium with electrical conductivity in the safer range. The experiment comprised of five rice based cropping systems of cropping intensity varying from 300-600% viz. Rice (Basmati-370) – Wheat (HD-3086) – Cowpea (Lobia Super-60) having 300% cropping intensity, Rice (Basmati-564) – Potato (Kufri Badshah) – Wheat (Raj-3765) – Mixed fodder (Maize+Cowpea+Charri) having 400% cropping intensity, Rice (SJR-129) – Knolkhol (G-40) – Potato (Kufri Sindhuri) – Green gram (IPM-02-3) having 400% cropping intensity, Rice (Pusa-1121)– Radish (CR-45) – Green onion (Nasik Red) – French bean (Anupama) – Okra (Seli special) having 500% cropping intensity in relay cropping from fourth crop onwards) and Rice (IET-1410) – Fenugreek (JF-07) – Knolkhol (G-40) – Green onion (Nasik Red) – Dry onion (Selection-1) – Black gram (Pant U-19) having 600% cropping intensity in relay cropping from third crop onwards. The experiment was conducted in randomized block design with four replications. All the crops under different rice based ultra high intensity cropping systems were raised as per package of practices recommended for different crops under irrigated sub-tropics of Jammu. The application of the fertilizers and manures to crops raised under different cropping systems were as per their respective recommended package of cultivation except for the nutrient requirement of crops in the systems which were met both through organic and inorganic sources as per INM recommendations i.e. of the total requirement of nitrogen, 25% was supplemented through farm yard manure on dry weight basis (ready to use) and 75% through inorganic sources, excluding pulse and vegetable crops. Among inorganic fertilizer sources, N, P and K were applied through urea, diammonium phosphate and muriate of potash, respectively. To calculate the system energy input, all inputs in the form of human labour, diesel, seed, water, organic manure, chemical fertilizer, herbicide, etc. used in different cropping systems were taken into consideration with the use of energy conversion factors and system energy input was expressed in MJ ha-1. System energy output was calculated by the product of basmati-370 rice equivalent yield of the system with the energy equivalent of basmati-370 rice and was expressed in MJ ha-1. The yield of different crops were converted into basmati-370 rice equivalent yield based on the prevailing market price of different crops. Basmati-370 rice equivalent yield was calculated by using the following formula.\r\nBasmati-370 rice equivalent system productivity was obtained by adding basmati rice-370 equivalent yields of different crops taken in cropping system and was expressed in kg ha-1. The ratio of system energy output to system energy input was calculated to obtain system energy efficiency. System energy efficiency was calculated by subtracting system input energy from system output energy. System energy productivity was the ratio of basmati-370 rice equivalent yield of the system to system energy input and was expressed in kg MJ-1. System energy intensity (MJ Rs.-1) was determined as dividing system energy output by system cost of cultivation.\r\nRESULTS AND DISCUSSION\r\nA. System energy input\r\nData with respect to system energy input presented in Table 1 shows that the highest system energy input of 8.43 MJ ha-1 × 104 was worked out on the basis of energy incurred for the inputs utilized in production of crops in cropping system T4 and it was followed by system energy input of 7.10 MJ ha-1 × 104, 6.31 MJ ha-1 × 104 and 6.17MJ ha-1 × 104 with cropping systems T3, T5 and T2, respectively. The highest system energy input might be attributed to the utilization of more energy-rich inputs such as seed, fertilizer, irrigation, herbicides and labour requirement for the cultivation of radish, green onion, french bean, okra, potato, knolkhol, fenugreek and mixed fodder crops in these cropping systems. However, the lowest system energy input of 2.30 MJ ha-1 × 104 was recorded in treatment T1. Sharma et al. (2014) reported that rice-potato + radish-onion + maize relay cropping system utilized higher energy inputs.\r\nB. System energy output\r\nData on system energy output graphically presented in Table 1 and Fig. 1 shows that significantly highest system energy output of 36.52MJ ha-1 × 104 was recorded under treatment T4 which was followed by treatments T3, T5 and T2 with corresponding values of system energy output of 30.35MJ ha-1 × 104, 28.56MJ ha-1 × 104 and 24.66MJ ha-1 × 104, respectively. Further, the treatment T3was found statistically at par with cropping system T5 whereas treatment T1 recorded significantly lowest system energy output of 13.82MJ ha-1 × 104. The treatment T4 recorded significantly highest system energy output might be owing to the higher production potential of vegetable crops like french bean, green onion, radish and okra in this cropping system which proved effective in producing more basmati-370 rice equivalent yield energy output by increasing total production of the cropping system. These results were in conformity with the findings of Sharma et al. (2008) and Kachroo et al. (2012).\r\nC. System energy efficiency\r\nData concerning system energy efficiency (Table 1) shows that significantly highest system energy efficiency (6.02) was recorded in treatment T1 while significantly lowest system energy efficiency (4.00) was recorded with treatment T2 which was found statistically at par with treatments T3 (4.27), T4 (4.33) and T5 (4.53). The cropping system T1 recorded significantly highest system energy use efficiency might be attributed to the reason that this cropping system maintained its superiority in energy output-input ratio in comparison to other cropping systems. However, significantly lowest system energy use efficiency recorded in treatment T2 indicating that this system was inefficient with respect of energy produced per unit energy use. These results were in line with the findings of Saha and Ghosh (2010). \r\nD. System net energy returns\r\nA perusal of data with respect to system net energy returns shown in Table 1 and graphically depicted in Fig. 1 indicates that significantly highest system net energy returns (28.09MJ ha-1 × 104) was recorded in treatment T4 while significantly lowest system net energy returns of 11.52MJ ha-1 × 104 was recorded with treatment T1. The treatment T4 was followed by cropping systems T3, T5 and T2 with system net energy returns of 23.25MJ ha-1 × 104, 22.25MJ ha-1 × 104 and 18.49MJ ha-1 × 104, respectively. Significantly highest system net energy returns registered in treatment T4 might be due to highly productive vegetable crops (such as radish, green onion, french bean and okra) brought about high energy output associated with this system. \r\nE. System energy productivity\r\nData regarding system energy productivity (Table 1 and Fig. 2) shows that treatment T1 registered significantly highest system energy productivity of 0.41 kg MJ-1 whereas significantly lowest system energy productivity of 0.27 kg MJ-1 was registered with treatment T2 which was found statistically at par with cropping system T3 (0.29 kg MJ-1), T4 (0.29 kg MJ-1) and T5 (0.31 kg MJ-1). The cropping system T1 was followed by treatment T5 which was found statistically at par with treatment T4 with the same system energy productivity value of 0.30 kg MJ-1. Treatment T1 recorded highest system energy productivity might be due to lesser energy inputs utilized for the cultivation of crops. The lowest system energy productivity recorded in treatment T2 might be due to low basmati-370 rice equivalent system productivity and low energy input used in the system. Similar results were observed by Ray et al. (2009) and Singh et al. (2017).\r\nF. System energy intensity\r\nData with respect to system energy intensity given in Table 1 and Fig. 2 reveals that significantly highest system energy intensity (1.14MJ Rs.-1) was registered in treatment T1 whereas significantly lowest system energy intensity of 0.70MJ Rs.-1 was recorded in treatment T4 which was found statistically at par with treatments T5, T3 and T2 with system energy intensity of 0.77 MJ Rs.-1, 0.79 MJ Rs.-1 and 0.81MJ Rs.-1, respectively.\r\nThe cropping system T1 recorded significantly highest system energy intensity as compared to other cropping systems might be owing to the lower cost of cultivation of this system. These results corroborated with the findings of Mishra et al. (2013) and Sinha (2021).','Monika Menia, B.C. Sharma, A.P. Singh, Satesh Kumar, Vivak M. Arya, Manish K. Sharma and Amrish Vaid (2022). Effect of Rice based Ultra High Intensity Cropping System Models on Energetics under Irrigated Sub-Tropics of Jammu. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 14(3): 660-665.'),(5343,'136','Exploration of Natural Habitats of Vidarbha Region for the Presence of Native Bacillus thuringiensis Isolates','Renuka D. Pawar, D.B. Undirwade , M.P. Moharil, U.S. Kulkarni, A.V. Kolhe and S.L. Borkar','113 Exploration of Natural Habitats of Vidarbha Region for the Presence of Native Bacillus thuringiensis Isolates Renuka D. Pawar.pdf','',1,'The purpose of the current research was to isolate and characterize indigenous Bacillus thuringiensis isolates from the Vidarbha region\'s various habitats in order to ascertain whether Bt is widely distributed throughout the ecosystem. In total 80 sample of soil not having Bt history, phylloplane and insect cadaver was collected from Akola, Amravati, Bhandara, Gadhchiroli, Gondia, Nagpur and Yavatmal districts of Vidarbha region of Maharashtra state. Maximum amount of probable Bt isolates were obtained from soil samples (57), followed by phylloplane (6) and insect cadaver (5) with the help of Travers Sodium acetate selective isolation method. Similarities were observed in the colony morphology characters of indigenous Bt isolates and the that of standard strain Bacillus thuringiensis sub sp. kurstaki HD -1 (Btk HD-1). Biochemical characterization of these isolates with the help of IMViC test suggested that more than 50% of the total native isolates showed significant resemblance with standard strain. Microscopic observations with the help of different staining techniques indicated presence of endospores and crystals in 33 local isolates confirming these isolates as Bt. Further calculation of Bt isolation index suggested that soil consist of highest population of Bt followed by insect cadaver and phylloplane. This study thus gives an indication of the abundance of Bt in a natural ecosystem and promotes further research into other potential habitats for Bt bacteria.','Bacillus thuringiensis, isolation, Gram staining, spore staining, IMViC, insect cadaver','The results of the present study revealed that the Bacillus thuringiensis (Bt) bacterium is widely distributed throughout the Vidarbha region of Maharashtra state, India, including the districts of Yavatmal, Gadhchiroli, Amravati, Akola, Bhandara, and Gondia. However, the occurrence was predominant in soil samples compared to other sources, such as leaves and insect cadaver. Additional morphological, microscopic, and biochemical analyses revealed the presence of endospore in bacteria, and the presence of parasporal crystalliferous inclusion further distinguished B. thuringiensis from other Bacillus spp., confirming its presence in the collected samples.','INTRODUCTION\r\nBacillus thuringiensis is naturally occurring, gram positive, facultative anaerobic, motile, endospore forming bacteria with rod shaped vegetative cells. This bacterium is available everywhere in the environment. It can be used as a biological control agent against many insect pests due to its entomopathogenic potential. Being omnipresent, it can be isolated from different natural habitats such as soil, water, plant surfaces dead insects, and insect cadaver (Yammamoto et al., 2014; Padole et al., 2017). It is a member of the morphological group of Bacilli named as Bacillus cerus group along with the other bacteria such as Bacillus cereus, B. anthracis, B. mycoides and B. laterosporous. Bt can be distinguished from other members of the Bc group by its defining feature which is ability to produce proteinaceous insecticidal crystal during the sporulation phase of its lifecycle. The bacteria occasionally lose their ability to form crystals and become indistinguishable from B. cereus itself. (Yammamoto and Powell 1993; Sanahuja et al., 2011).\r\nOver the recent decades, the uncontrolled and imprudent use of chemical insecticides has produced a number of environmental risks, many of which are toxic to both humans and beneficial fauna. This has caused a variety of issues, such as chemical residues, the emergence of insect pests that are resistant to treatment, resurgence, and secondary pest outbreaks (Singh and Mandal 2013). There is need of looking for better environmentally friendly control methods as a result of these undesirable side effects. The superior alternative to synthetically produced pesticides is the use of ecologically sound and target-specific pest management techniques such as use of microbial biopesticides (Majeed et al., 2017). These microbes have the potential to reduce the use of dangerous chemical pesticides because they are specific to their target and are natural enemies of insects. Hence microbial biopesticides can be used against a wide variety of agricultural insect pests in many agroecosystems (Ruiu 2018). Among all the microbes used for the purpose of pest control, Bacillus thuringiensis (Bt) is most widely used and important entomopathogen as it produces insecticidal crystal (Cry) and cytolytic (Cyt) proteins named δ-endotoxins encoded by cry and cyt genes (Crickmore et al., 2020) along with newly identified Vip protein (Yu et al., 2010). Out of the total 10% of bio pesticides used globally, approximately 90% of the microbial insecticides are derived from Bt (Osman et al., 2015). Continuously excessive application of Bt and use of a same cry gene for insect control can causes development of resistance in insect pests after few generations (Zago et al. 2014). Thus it is of much importance to search for the highly virulent and more effective indigenous Bt isolates from different unexplored natural habitat with the possibility to find with intended insecticidal genes.\r\nMATERIAL AND METHODS\r\nCollection of samples. For the purpose of this work, samples were collected from different natural habitat of Bacillus thuringiensis, such as soil, phylloplane i.e. surface of leaves and insect cadaver.\r\nCollection of soil samples. Soil samples were collected by scraping off soil surface with sterile spatula and then 10 g sample 2-5 cm below the surface and stored in sterile aluminum foil bag at 4°C from areas with no previous Bt history, neither sown nor spread (Martin and Travers 1989).\r\nCollection of leaf samples. Leaves of some important agronomical as well as horticultural crops from different locations of the university fields, of Dr. PDKV, Akola were collected. Three to five leaves from the lower middle and upper part of the canopy were collected and stored in sterile aluminum foil bags at 4 °C until further use (Asokan and Puttaswamy 2007).\r\nCollection of insect cadaver. Regular field visits were made to the university fields, of Dr. PDKV, Akola as well as farmers’ fields to check the presence of dead/diseased/ moribund larvae of insects; such insect cadavers were collected each in separate sterile micro centrifuge tube and stored at 4°C until further use (Padole et al., 2017).\r\nIsolation of Bacillus thuringiensis from the collected samples. Isolation of Bt from these sample collected from natural habitat was done by the sodium acetate selective isolation and heat shock treatment (Travers et al., 1987).\r\nIsolation from soil samples. For the purpose of isolation, one gram soilwas added to 10 mL of LB broth buffered with 0.25 M sodium acetate in falcon tubes. This mixture was shaken for 4 hours at 250 rpm at 30°C and heat shocked at 80 °C for three min. Serial dilutions (10-1 to 10-6) were made in sterile saline solution. 100 µL of each dilution was spread on petri plate containing Luria agar and incubated at 30°C overnight. Chalky white colonies were picked up and plated on T3 medium and incubated at 30°C for 72 hours. The colonies grown on T3 medium were further purified using single colony isolation technique and maintained on Luria Agar at 4°C until further use (Asokan and Puttaswamy 2007).\r\nIsolation from Phylloplane. To remove the superficially adhering micro flora, the 3-5 gram of leaves were dipped in sterile distilled water and then placed in 100 mL of sterile double distilled water and rotated at 250 rpm 30°C for 4 hours. This suspension was then poured in polypropylene falcon tubes and then centrifuged at 10,000 rpm at 4°C for 5 min. and supernatant was discarded. Further 5 mL of Luria broth buffered with 0.25 M sodium acetate was added to the pellet. This mixture was shaken for 4 hours at 250 rpm at 30°C and heat shocked at 80°C for three minutes. Serial dilutions (10-1 to 10-6) were made in sterile distilled water and 100 µL of each dilution was spread on Luria agar and incubated at 30°C overnight. Chalky white colonies were picked up and plated on T3 medium and incubated at 30°C for 72 hours. Colonies showing typical characters were selected and further purified using single colony isolation technique and maintained on Luria agar at 4°C until further use.\r\nIsolation from insect cadaver. The dead larvae were surface sterilized using rectified sprit and individual larva was homogenized in a microfuge tube in 1 mL of LB buffered with 0.25 M sodium acetate. This mixture was shaken for 4 hours at 250 rpm at 30°C and heat shocked at 80°C for three minutes. Serial dilutions (10-1 to 10-6) were made in sterile distilled water and 100 µL of each dilution was spread on Luria agar and incubated at 30°C overnight. Three replications were maintained for each dilution and chalky white colonies were picked up, plated on T3 medium and incubated at 30°C for 72 hours. Colonies which showed typical characters were selected and further purified using single colony isolation technique and maintained on Luria agar at 4°C until further use (Asokan and Puttaswamy 2007).\r\nCharacterization of local isolates\r\nCharacterization based on colony morphology. Single colonies were obtained by using single colony isolation technique and observations were recorded regarding colony morphology parameters namely, colony size, colony shape, colony elevation, colony margin, colony color and opacity of the bacterial colony. Strain Btk HD-1 was used as standard for the comparison with local probable Bt strains.\r\nMicroscopic characterization. Microscopic characterization was carried out by different staining techniques which include, gram staining, spore staining with Malachite green and Amido black. Crystal staining was carried out by using coomassie brilliant blue.\r\nBiochemical Characterization. Morphologically characterized colonies were further be confirmed by the biochemical characterization with the help of IMVIC test, which comprises of indole production, methyl red, Voges-Proskauer, citrate utilization test (Agrahari et al. 2008).\r\nIndole Test. A loopful culture of probable Bacillus thuringiensis isolates were inoculated in tryptone broth containing NaCl. pH of culture was maintained at 7.2 and kept for incubation at 37°C in environmental shaker for 24 hours. Kovac’s reagent was added after 24 hours of incubation to the bacterial culture. Absence of pink ring at the surface of the culture indicated negative test.\r\nMethyl Red Test. MRVP medium was inoculated with a loopful of twenty four hours old cultures of probable Bacillus thuringiensis isolates. The culture was incubated at 30°C on rotary shaker at 100 rpm for 48 hours. A drop of methyl red indicator was added to the test tube, red color resulted positive test indicating presence of acid while yellow color of media indicated negative reaction to the test.\r\nVoges- Proskauer test. MVRP medium was inoculated with a loopful of twenty four hours old cultures of probable Bacillus thuringiensis isolates. Then culture was incubated at 30°C on environmental rotary shaker at 100 rpm for 48 hours. 1-2 drops of α-naphthol reagent and 4-5 drops of 40% KOH were added in culture tube. Opened tubes then were placed in slanting position in order to increase contact with air. Change of surface color to pink in 10-15 min. indicated the positive test with acetyl methyl carbinol production.\r\nCitrate Utilization test. This test was conducted to test the ability of bacterial culture to utilize citrate as a sole source of energy for its growth. For this, Simmon’s citrate agar media was autoclaved, poured into sterile test tube kept at slanting position and allowed to solidify. Solidified slants were inoculated with loopful of bacterial culture and incubated for 24 hours. Growth of bacterial culture accompanied with change in the color of media from green to blue indicates positive test whereas, no growth with no change in media color indicated negative test.\r\nRESULTS AND DISCUSSION\r\nIn order to explore the different habitats for the presence of Bt isolates, samples of native ecological niche, were collected from various locations of Vidarbha region. As Bt seems to be found in wide variety of niches, samples of soil, phylloplane, and insect cadavers were collected. In order to search for more efficient Bt isolates, the soil sample were collected from the areas where there is no previous history of Bt neither sown nor sprayed, phylloplane of various crops from university fields and insect cadavers from different locations were collected for the purpose of isolation of Bt (Asokan and Puttaswamy 2007). Total 80 samples were collected from 80 different locations with coordinates mentioned in Table 1. Out of these, 67, 7, 6 samples were collected from soil, phylloplane, insect cadaver respectively. For the purpose of Bt isolation, sodium acetate selective method was used (Travers et al., 1987). With the help of Travers selective isolation method 57 probable Bt were isolated from soil, 6 from insect and 5 probable Bt were isolated. The results represent in Table 2 indicate that, out of the total samples collected maximum number of probable Bt isolates were obtained from soil (57), followed by phylloplane (6) and insect cadaver (5). The number of probable Bt isolates presented in Table 6 it can be estimated that Bt is abundantly present in the ecology of the collected samples (Table 2). Previous Travers et al. (1987) suggested the ubiquitous nature of Bt and isolated 85 of Bt out of 1,115 soil samples collected from United States and 29 other countries. Bt can be considered as part of the common leaf microflora of many plants (Smith and Couche 1991). Three common hypothetical niches of B. thuringiensis in the environment which include insect cadaver, phylloplane inhabitant, and soil are the important habitats for isolation of Bt (Meadows, 1993). Similar studies were conducted previously by Agrahari et al. (2008); Shishir et al. (2012); Padole et al. (2017); Amha et al. (2021) further confirmed that Bt can be isolated successfully from soil, phylloplane and insect cadaver with the help of Travers’ acetate selective isolation method.\r\nThe morphological characterization of all the isolates obtained were carried by considering various important characters including colony size, colony shape, colony elevation, colony margin, colony color an opacity is reported in Table 3. The strain from NCBI, Bacillus thuringiensis sub sp kurstaki HD-1 (NCIM Accession No. 5118) was used as positive standard for the purpose of morphological characterization. The colony characters such as circular shape, flat elevation, opaque colony and creamy white colony color with irregular margin and wavy surface with fried egg like appearance was observed in the standard strain of Btk HD-1. Colony characters similar to the standard strain were reported from the 51 isolates out of total 68 probable isolate and remaining 17 isolates showed slight difference in colony color (off white and dirty white colony color) and slightly elevated colony. Amongst the total 51 isolates showing exactly similar characters as standard strain 44 out of 57, 4 out of 6 and 3 out of 5 isolates from soil, phylloplane and insect cadaver respectively were classified as probable Bt isolates. The different colony morphology predominantly of flat, circular, creamy white color colony with irregular margin and wavy surface was recorded (El-kersh et al., 2016; Padole et al., 2017) whereas creamish to off white color colonies with mucoid or glistening surfaces having entire edges and density ranging between translucent to opaque was recorded from native isolates from Punjab (Kaur et al., 2006).\r\nMicroscopic observations of the total 68 probable isolates were taken on the basis of various staining techniques including gram staining spore staining with malachite green and amido black and crystal staining with coomassie brilliant blue (CBB G-250). In addition to the staining methods, the shape and ends of vegetative bacterial cells were also observed. Positive gram staining test, rod shaped vegetative cells having terminal spore, positive spore staining with amino black and malachite green and positive crystal staining with coomassie brilliant blue G-250 was observed in standard strain Btk HD-1. All 68 possible isolates were stained using these methods and the results were recorded in Table 4, where 55, 6 and 5 isolates from soil, phylloplane and insect cadaver respectively resulted in positive gram staining and having rod shaped vegetative cells. Positive spore staining was observed for both malachite green and amido black staining in the 52, 6 and 5 isolates from soil, phylloplane and insect cadaver respectively. With the help of spore staining it was also observed that 43, 3 and 4 isolates showed terminal spore position and 9, 2 and 1 isolates from soil, phylloplane and insect cadaver respectively showed middle spore position in vegetative cell. However crystal protein staining with CBB G–250 was positive for 28, 2 and 3 isolates from soil, leaf, and insect cadaver, respectively. Similar results were recorded that Bt is gram positive bacteria and have terminal or median endospore (Baig et al., 2010; Padole et al., 2017). Presence of crystals were recorded with help of CBB staining (Kati et al., 2007; Shishir et al., 2012).\r\nBiochemical characterization of the total 68 isolates was carried out by using indole, methyl red, Voges-Proskauer, and citrate test (IMViC). Out of 57 isolates from the soil, 6 from phylloplane, and 5 from insect cadaver, 42, 4 and 4 isolates showed Voges-Proskauer test positive, 14, 2, and 1 showed positive reaction to methyl red test whereas 55, 6, and 4 showed negative reaction to citrate utilization test. However, all the 57, 6, and 5 isolates showed negative reactions to the indole test as indicated in Table 5. Standard strain Btk HD-1 showed positive reaction Voges-Proskauer test while negative for methyl red, indole and citrate utilization test. The results regarding biochemical studies were in accordance with Eswarapriya et al. (2010), reported native Bt isolates positive to Voges- Proskauer (VP) test and negative reaction to Methyl Red (MR) test. It was recorded that Bt produces acetylmethyl carbinol from glucose fermentation as it was positive for VP test among IMViC test (Deepak et al., 2011; Ghosh et al., 2017; Purohit, 2019). Negative reaction for citrate utilization test was recorded from B. thuringiensis subsp. kurstaki (De Barjac and Frachon 1990; Abirami et al., 2016; Padole et al., 2017). It was previously recorded that isolates do not have the ability decompose the amino acid tryptophan to indole which is in accordance with present study (Yoo et al., 1996; Deepak et al., 2011; Abirami et al., 2016).\r\nThe Bt isolation index was calculated by dividing the population of crystalliferous Bt isolates by the total population of Bacillus for each sample collected from different sources. The result present in Table 6 indicates that the highest Bt isolation index was obtained from soil samples of Bhandara district (0.75) followed by soil from Gadhchiroli (0.66), Gondia (0.60), Amravati (0.52), Yavatmal (0.50) and Akola (0.36) and the lowest Bt isolation index was reported in soil sample from Nagpur district. Whereas, 0.60 and 0.33 Bt index was reported for insect cadaver and phylloplane respectively. Similarly, highest Bt index of 0.67 was from soil samples and minimum 0.40 from leaf samples (Shishir et al., 2012) whereas, higher Bt index recorded from forest soils (0.60) as compare to agricultural soils (0.33) (Lone et al., 2017). Hence this study provides the idea about abundance of and diversity of Bt isolates present in the habitat of Vidarbha region. \r\n','Renuka D. Pawar, D.B. Undirwade, M.P. Moharil , U.S. Kulkarni, A.V. Kolhe and S.L. Borkar (2022). Exploration of Natural Habitats of Vidarbha Region for the Presence of Native Bacillus thuringiensis Isolates. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 14(3): 666-674.'),(5344,'136','Effect of Harvesting Method on Seed Quality of Soybean (Glycine max L.) during Storage','Sravani Bussari, K. Lakshmiprasanna, M. Pallavi and M. Rajendar Reddy','114 Effect of Harvesting Method on Seed Quality of Soybean (Glycine max L.) during Storage Sravani Bussari.pdf','',1,'The present investigation was conducted to study the effect of harvesting method (Hand harvesting and Mechanical harvesting) on the seed quality of soybean under storage using three different varieties (Basara, JS - 335 and ASB - 50). The seed was stored for a period of six months under ambient storage conditions and seed quality parameters were evaluated. The study revealed that hand harvested seed showed better performance than mechanically harvested seed throughout the storage period in terms of germination and seedling vigour. Among the three varieties, Basara variety showed superior seed quality compared to ASB - 50 and JS - 335. However, irrespective of the method of harvest and variety, all the seed quality parameters decreased with the increase of the storage period. In hand harvested seed, per cent decrease recorded in case of germination, seedling length, seedling vigour index I and II were 9.41%, 11.6%, 15.6% and 16.79%, respectively and in mechanically harvested seed, it was 11.76%, 10.78%, 20.61% and 21.49%, respectively. ','Soybean, Harvesting method, Varieties, Storage and Seed quality','The present study concluded that between the methods of harvesting, the hand harvested seed showed better performance than mechanical harvested seed for seed quality parameters. Among the three varieties, Basara variety showed superiority for germination %, field emergence, index of speed of germination, seedling length, SVI – I & II, then followed by ASB - 50 and JS - 335 variety. Regardless to the method of harvesting and variety, all the seed quality parameters were decreased with the storage period. ','INTRODUCTION\r\nSoybean (Glycine max (L.) Merrill) has gained significance worldwide because of its wide range of geographical adaptation, unique chemical composition, high nutritional value with functional health benefits and multifaceted applications in food and allied industries. It is a multipurpose legume rich in both protein and oil content with the ability to resolve food and nutritional security in developing countries hence considered as “Golden bean”. Soybean ranks first in the international market among the world’s major oil seed crops (FAO 2020). It accounts for 42% of overall oilseed production and 22% of total oil production, 2/3rd of the global protein concentrates for livestock feeding. Soybean was also named as “wonder crop” or “Miracle crop” as its seed contains diverse nutritional characteristics such as 20 % oil with 85 % unsaturated fatty acids including 55 % poly unsaturated fatty acids (PUFA), 40 % good quality protein, antioxidants, 4-5 % minerals and 25-30 % carbohydrates (Karthika and Koti 2017).\r\nIndia ranks fourth in terms of area of production (129.28 lakh hectares) and fifth in production (12.61 million tonnes) with a productivity of 976 kg per hectare. In India, Madhya Pradesh, Maharashtra, Rajasthan, Karnataka are the major growing states. More than 90% of soybean growing area is under rainfed conditions (INDIASTAT, 2020-21). In Telangana, soybean is grown in an area of 1.6 lakh hectares with an annual production of 2.4 lakh tonnes and productivity of 1505 kg per hectare (INDIASTAT, 2020-21). It is predominantly grown in black cotton soils in Telangana state during kharif season and collected seed was stored until the following year for sowing which is a difficult task because of its poor storability. Hence every year supply of quality seed to farmers is a major hurdle in soybean production in the state.\r\nDespite of its high nutritional content, soybean seed is a poor storer due to its genetic makeup, and various factors that influence seed germination and vigour during storage. The major reason associated with rapid loss in seed viability is its fragile seed coat which gets easily damaged during harvest and post-harvest operations (Mahesha et al., 2001). Majority of the farmers in Telangana use mechanical threshers to harvest the seed, which is expected to be one of the main reasons for rapid loss of viability. \r\nFew researchers reported that irrespective of variety, threshing and processing methods, and storage containers, the germination of soybean declined during storage (Shelar et al., 2008). The decrease of germination was higher in the variety MACS-124 than the JS-335. The high oil content in soybean and sunflower is associated with greater lipid peroxidation leading to reduction in germination capacity and seed viability (Balesevic - Tubic et al., 2007). Rame et al. (2002) reported that soybean threshed by hand shelling maintained maximum viability and vigour during storage. Hence, the current study was conducted to find out the influence of different harvesting methods on seed quality in different varieties of soybean under storage.\r\nMATERIAL AND METHODS\r\nFreshly harvested soybean seed of three varieties viz., Basara, JS - 335, ASB - 50 harvested in two different methods i.e., hand harvesting and mechanical harvesting was collected from Agricultural Research Station, Adilabad, Telangana and seed quality parameters were studied at the Department of Seed Science and Technology, Seed Research and Training Centre, Rajendrangar, Telangana. The laboratory experiment was conducted in two Factorial Completely Randomized Design with three replications. The observations were recorded for seed hardness index, mechanical damage (%), moisture content (%), germination (%), seedling length (cm), seedling dry weight (mg), seedling vigour index-I, seedling vigour index-II, speed of germination, field emergence (%) and electrical conductivity (µScm-1 g -1).\r\nMechanical damage (%) was calculated by following ferric chloride method suggested by Agarwal (1995).\r\nMechanical damage (%) = (Number of black stained seeds )/(Total number of seeds taken)×100\r\nSeed hardness index was measured by using an instrument grain hardness tester (Model: AGW - 40). The point at which the seed first break point recorded was considered as the maximum hardness value of seed.\r\nMoisture test was conducted as per ISTA (2018) rules by placing five grams of grounded sample into aluminium box in three replicates and dried at 103oC for 17 hours in hot air oven. The per cent moisture content was calculated by using the formula: \r\nMoisture content (%) = (W2 - W3)/(W2 - W1) × 100\r\nW1 - Weight of the empty container along with lid (gm)\r\nW2 - Weight of the container along with lid and grounded seed sample before drying (gm)\r\nW3 - Weight of the container along with lid and grounded seed sample after drying (gm)\r\nGermination test in soybean was conducted as per ISTA (2018) using between paper method. Fifty seeds were placed for germination in eight replicates and kept in the germination chamber at a temperature of 25± 1oC and relative humidity of 95 %. The germination percentage was calculated by using following formula:\r\nGermination (%) =(Number of normal seedlings)/(Total number of seeds planted) x 100\r\nSeedling length and seedling dry weights were evaluated and expressed in centimetres and in milligrams, respectively. Seedling vigour index-I and seedling vigour index-II were calculated as per procedure given by Abdul-Baki and Anderson (1973) and expressed in whole number. \r\nSVI-I = Germination (%) × Seedling length (cm) \r\nSVI-II = Germination (%) × Seedling dry weight (mg)\r\nRandomly hundred seeds from each treatment were placed in the moistened sand trays in three replicates and kept in the germinator at a temperature of 25 ± 1oC with 95% relative humidity. The number of seedlings germinated on each day up to the eighth day after sowing were recorded regularly and index of speed of germination calculated by using the following formula:\r\nIndex of speed of germination = \r\n∑ [ (n1/d1) + (n2 – n1)/d2 + ….. + (n8 – n7)/d8)]\r\nField emergence test was conducted by sowing hundred seeds from each treatment in three replications and evaluated on eighth day and expressed as percentage. \r\nField emergence (%) =( Number of seeds germinated on eighth day)/(Total number of seeds sown)× 100\r\nElectrical conductivity of seed soaking was measured as per ISTA (2018) and expressed in µS cm-1g-1. \r\nEC(µScm-1g-1)=(Conductivity reading (µS cm-1) – Background reading)/(Weight of seed (g))\r\nThe above parameters were analyzed using INDOSTAT software for the interpretation of results.\r\nRESULTS\r\nAnalysis of variance revealed there was significant difference between the methods of harvesting for the seed quality parameters.\r\nBasara variety (8.80) recorded significantly higher seed hardness index than other two varieties (ASB - 50 and JS - 335). Hardness of the seed was decreased during storage from initial evaluation to 6 MAS (8.57 to 8.47) (Table 2c). Seeds with higher hardness index showed maximum resistance to seed coat damage during harvesting and threshing process. These results were in conformity with findings of Zahid (2013) who reported that a significant reduction was observed in the hardness of the seed coat with the increase of the storage period.\r\nMechanically harvested seed recorded maximum mechanical damage per cent than the hand harvested seed. ASB - 50 variety registered highest mechanical damage percent because of its low seed hardness and lowest was noticed in Basara variety, which possess maximum seed hardness. Mechanically harvested seed of ASB - 50 showed 37 % of mechanical damage, whereas lowest was observed in hand harvested seed of Basara variety (18.33 %) (Fig. 1). The lowest mechanical damage was observed in stick threshing than in mechanical threshing method was reported in findings of Gagare et al. (2014).\r\nMaximum moisture content (%) was observed in ASB - 50 (8.93 %) followed by JS - 335 (8.76 %) and Basara (8.47 %) seed. The moisture content (%) of the seed was increased from initial evaluation (8.43 %) to 6 MAS (9.02%) (Table 2c). Tubic et al. (2011) reported that different moisture content was observed in different genotypes which might be due to the genetic factors and seed chemical composition. Because of its hygroscopic nature, seed absorbed the moisture when the relative humidity was high in the storage conditions. Similar results were observed in findings of Gadhave (2018) who reported that moisture content was found to be increased during storage. \r\nMechanical harvesting causes breaks in seed coat because of its fragile nature. Maximum EC was recorded in mechanical harvested seed (248.98 µScm-1 g -1) whereas lowest in hand harvested seed (216.45 µScm-1 g -1) (Fig. 2). Seed leachates from ASB - 50 (325.92 µScm-1 g -1) recorded highest conductivity, whereas that of Basara (150.96 µScm-1 g -1) recorded lowest (Table 2c). More seed coat damage was found in mechanically harvested seed which lead to increased leakage of electrolytes than hand harvested seed (Maheshwari et al, 2020). Seeds stored for six months recorded significantly the highest conductivity value than those stored for three months was reported by Isaac et al. (2016). \r\nThe Germination percent in soybean was influenced by harvesting method during storage. A significant reduction of germination was observed after storage. Reduction was 9.41 % from initial to 6 MAS (i.e., 85 % to 75 %) in hand harvested seed whereas it was 11.76 % (85 % to 75 %) in case of mechanical harvesting. Basara variety (84 %) registered highest germination followed by ASB - 50 (81 %) and JS - 335 (77 %) (Table 2a). These results were in line with the findings of Abady and Emam (2012) who reported that higher germination per cent was recorded in hand threshed seed than in machine threshed seed.\r\nBasara (24.17) showed superiority for index of speed of germination over ASB - 50 (23.06) and JS - 335 (22.19). Index of speed of germination showed significant reduction from initial evaluation (30.55) to 6 MAS (15.72) (Table 2d). The speed of germination was declined with the progress in the storage period in all the varieties (Kavitha, 2002).\r\nHand harvested seed (29.86 cm) recorded lengthier seedling than mechanical harvested seed (28.62 cm) with longest being recorded in ASB - 50 (29.99 cm). The reduction per cent was highest in case of ASB - 50 variety (11.79 %) and lowest was recorded in Basara variety (5.79 %) (Table 2a). The results were in conformity with the findings of Shelar et al. (2008) stated that reduced seedling length was observed when seeds threshed by mechanical method and also it was decreased gradually with increased storage period.\r\nThe seedling dry weight was significantly differed with the method of harvesting. The higher dry weight was recorded in hand harvested seed (86.90 mg) than mechanically harvested seed (85.55 mg). ASB - 50 (100.46 mg) registered maximum seedling dry weight followed by JS - 335 (82.56 mg) and Basara (71.31 mg)(Table 2a). Kapoor et al. (2011) reported that seedling dry weight was significantly decreased with increased ageing up to six months of storage.\r\nSVI - I significantly decreased from initial evaluation (2593) to 6 MAS (2125). In hand harvested seed, a reduction of 15.60 % was observed from initial (2634) to 6 MAS (2223), whereas in mechanical harvested seed, 20.61 % (2552 to 2026) reduction was observed (Fig. 4). Basara (2469) recorded highest SVI - I followed by ASB - 50 (2423) and JS - 335 (2185) (Table 2b).\r\nFrom initial evaluation to 6 MAS, mechanical harvested and hand harvested seed showed a reduction of 21.48 % (7707 to 6413) and 16.79 % (7661 to 6015), respectively in SVI – II (Fig 4). ASB - 50 (8251) recorded significantly highest SVI - II over Basara (6347) and JS - 335 (6249) (Table 2b). Seedling vigour was found higher in manually threshed seed than mechanical threshed than and was gradually decreased with the increase of the storage period (Abady and Emam 2012).\r\nAmong the three varieties, significantly highest field emergence was recorded in Basara (84 %) followed by ASB - 50 (79 %) and JS - 335 (78 %) (Fig. 3). Significant reduction in field emergence from 85 % to 75 % was recorded after storage (Table 2d). These results were in line with the findings of Rame et al. (2002) who reported that mechanical threshed seed showed maximum reduction in field emergence compared to manual threshed seed during storage.','Sravani Bussari, K. Lakshmiprasanna, M. Pallavi and M. Rajendar Reddy (2022). Effect of Harvesting Method on Seed Quality of Soybean (Glycine max L.) during Storage. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 14(3): 675-681.'),(5345,'136','Soil Quality Assessment and Sustainable Management for Nutritional Security','Pratibha Thakur, Pardeep Kumar, Nagender Pal Butail and N.K. Sankhyan','115 Soil Quality Assessment and Sustainable Management for Nutritional Security Pardeep Kumar.pdf','',1,'Soil, apart from providing a number of ecosystem services, strongly influence human health by producing safe and nutritious food and providing pollution free environment. None of the soil services will go right until it itself is healthful. Human health is directly related to the soil quality because soil is the ultimate source of human nutrition. Enhanced reliance on inorganic inputs for intensive cultivation and poor management practices have led to widespread degradation in soil quality. Negligence of on-going degradation processes like soil erosion, compaction, loss of organic matter can lead to major catastrophes. Therefore soil quality assessment and its management through sustainable tool is very important for nutritional security. Maintenance of soil quality is a very complex process due to interactive involvement of many factors (Climate, humans, soil etc.) but can be achieved through sustainable use of resources following the 4R’s of nutrient stewardship. This article is aimed to raise the concern for soil quality for nutritional security and to bring the methods for its assessment and remedies for its sustainable management on single page.','Soil Quality, Assessment, Sustainable management, Nutritional security','Soil performs various ecosystem functions and their performance depends on its quality. Soil management systems affect the soil quality and therefore its assessment is an important step for maintaining its quality. There are a number of tools available for determining the soil quality index. On the basis of soil quality index, fertilizer scheduling can be done precisely by using right source with right rate through right method at right time.','INTRODUCTION\r\nSoil is a major provider, supporter and regulator of ecosystem services like biomass production, buffering, filtering, water and nutrient cycling, carbon sequestration, bioremediation, climate change mitigation etc. (Karlen et al., 2001). It has complex entanglement on human health (Zornoza et al., 2015), being the ultimate source of safe, nutritious food. All the functions and services provided by soil will go right only when it itself is salubrious. The various physical, chemical and biological characteristics of soil are the indicators of its quality/health. Assessment of soil quality of farm is needed to demonstrate the positive impacts of agricultural management practices on soil properties and crop production. To make the concept of soil quality more clear and understandable for farming community, soil quality should be displayed by assigning scores for diversified soil parameters. Scores are given on the basis of physical, chemical and biological data that is responsible for variability in its quality and will facilitate the growers for better soil management.\r\nIndia has achieved the goal of food security to a great extent but hidden hunger still continues to be one of the major challenges as nutrient deficiencies in soils are directly impacting the food quality. Worldwide two billion people are in the grip of malnutrition, particularly in developing countries due to their reliance on low-cost staples and monotonous diet (Grebmer et al., 2014). Impact of hidden hunger is clearly visible on COVID-19 patients as Ali et al. (2021) observed a positive correlation between the high prevalence of zinc deficiency and the COVID-19 cases per million populations in Asian countries. Moreover, it is convincing that low baseline zinc levels in COVID-19 patients were associated with more complications, leading to prolonged hospitalization and increased mortality (Jothimani et al., 2020). Ascorbic acid, Fe, Zn, vitamin D are some of the most important supplements being given to COVID-19 patients due to their deficiency in humans. Therefore, there is an urgent need to assess the soil quality so as to fix the nutritional quality of food stuff.\r\nSOIL QUALITY ASSESSMENT\r\nSoil quality assessment is the process of assigning the scores to the soils on the basis of certain indicators that are specific soil properties and processes. Single indicator is not enough to assess soil quality as univariate approach is unable to provide comprehensive judgement on soil nutrients’ status. In contrast, increasing the number of indicators may complicate the process by increasing collinearity or provide conflicting results (Armenise et al., 2013). Therefore, a minimum data set (MDS) is a prerequisite to capture a holistic image of soil quality. After selecting MDS, it is normalized (i.e. all the indicators are scored between the range 0-1) so as to make the values comparable, e.g. pH is not comparable with the nitrogen content of soil as long as it is not normalised between the range of 0-1. After normalising the data, scores are integrated to construct the final index (Stellacci et al., 2021). Various software programmes and procedures are available for calculating the soil quality index. Some of these are discussed below:\r\n(a) Soil Conditioning Index (SCI): It is a quick way to characterize organic matter dynamics of a farming system. It predicts the soil quality on the basis of amount of organic material (OM) returned to the soil after a crop harvest, effects of tillage and field operations (FO) on soil organic matter decomposition and the effect of predicted erosion (ER) associated with the management system on organic carbon. SCI score for a cropland must be greater than 0.0. It is calculated using the formula (Hubbs et al., 2002): \r\nSCI = 0.4 × OM + 0.4 × FO + 0.2 × ER\r\n(b) Principal Component Analysis (PCA): Principal component analysis (PCA) is a widespread procedure designed to summarize large datasets of correlated variables into a reduced number of components bearing the greatest part of the original information (Stellacci et al., 2021). Variable weights or loadings of the retained components are useful to identify the variables that contribute most to each selected principal components and investigate their relationships. SQI Cal software (Fig. 1) designed by IARI, New Delhi to work out the soil quality index through PCA.\r\n(c) Soil Management Assessment Framework (SMAF): The SMAF includes three steps: indicator selection, indicator interpretation, and integration into a soil quality index (Gura et al., 2022). The indicator selection step uses an expert system of decision rules to recommend indicators for inclusion in the assessment based on the user’s stated management goals, location and current practice. In the indicator interpretation step, observed indicator data is transformed into a unitless score based on clearly defined, site-specific relationships to soil function. The integration steps allows for the individual indicator scores to be combined into a single index value. This can be done with equal or differential weighting for the various indicators depending upon the relative importance of the soil functions for which they are measured.\r\n(d) Agro-Ecosystem Performance Assessment Tool (AEPAT): It is a computer program used to evaluate the agronomic and environmental performance of management practices in long-term agro-ecosystem experiments (Liebig et al., 2004). The program employs a simple scoring method to quantify the performance of management practices using indicators grouped within agro-ecosystem functions. Management practices are evaluated on a relative basis using AEPAT, thereby comparisons are made. It evaluates the effects of cropping system on soil quality and assesses agronomic and environmental functioning of soil. The working of the software is presented in Fig. 2.\r\n(e) Cornell Soil Health Test (CSHT): It considers 17 indicators which include soil texture, four soil physical indicators (Wet Aggregate Stability, Available Water Capacity, Penetration Resistance 0-15cm and Penetration Resistance 15-45cm), seven chemical indicators (pH, Phosphorus, Potassium, Magnesium, Iron, Manganese, and Zinc), five biological indicators (Organic Matter Content, Active Carbon, Autoclaved-Citrate Extractable Protein, Soil Respiration, Root Health Rating) (Idowu et al., 2009). These indicators are assessed, scored and converted to a single value soil quality index.\r\nSUSTAINABLE SOIL MANAGEMENT FOR NUTRITIONAL SECURITY\r\nCOVID-19 has shown the mirrors to the scientific community highlighting the fact that the diet we are consuming is poor in nutrition. The principle reason behind the under-nourished food is its source (soil) that itself is a victim of nutrient imbalance. Maintaining soil nutrition and quality at desirable level is a very complex issue due to interactive involvement of climatic, soil, plant, and human factors. However, proper and timely diagnosis and adoption of sustainable practices can clear up this issue. Agronomic biofortification (nutrient enrichment of crops) with the use of 4 R’s (Right source, Right rate, Right method and Right time) can serve the purpose. \r\n(a) Right Source: Combination of organic and inorganic sources i.e. integrated nutrient management approach can take us one step closer to better nutrition. For instance, Manzeke et al. (2014) reported better nutritional quality in maize and improved soil quality with the integrated use of inorganic N, P, Zn and cattle manure or leaf litter compost. After the harvest of wheat, Bangre et al. (2021) noticed improvement in soil physical properties with the integrated application of 100% NPK and FYM in a Vertisol of central India.\r\n(b) Right rate: Adding the fertilizers precisely according to the need of the crop can eliminate the problem of environmental pollution and can improve the nutrient uptake and content in the crops. It will contribute in better soil quality. Precision agriculture tools like site specific nutrient management, variable rate technology, etc. can be used for better results. Morari et al. (2021) supplied variable nitrogen rates using normalised difference vegetation index (NDVI) in different fertility zones (High, Medium and Low fertility zones) and got statistically coequal yields, protein content and nitrogen use efficiency in all the zones.\r\n(c) Right time: Supplementation of fertilizer at right stage of the crop is as important as its rate. Foliar sprays can be done as and when required by the crop. Besides increasing the production, it decreases the losses and improves the soil quality. Zn application at 50 DAS reported best nutritional quality of wheat among the treatments containing Zn spray at 0, 30, 35, 40, 45 and 50 DAS at all rates of Zn application (AICRP on Micro and Secondary Nutrients and Pollutant Elements in Soils and Plants, Annual report 2019-20).\r\n(d) Right method: Some crops responds well to soil application of fertilizers while others to foliar. Similarly some fertilizers work efficiently when supplied through soil while others responds well to foliar applications. So, fertilizer must be applied through right methods. Thakur et al. (2021) noticed better maize yield and soil quality with the foliar application of boron at recommended rate (0.034%) as compared to soil application (2 kg ha-1).\r\n','Pratibha Thakur, Pardeep Kumar, Nagender Pal Butail and N.K. Sankhyan (2022). Soil Quality Assessment and Sustainable Management for Nutritional Security. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 14(3): 682-686.'),(5346,'136','Developmental Biology of Tomato Leaf Miner, Phthorimaea absoluta Meyrick (Chang and Metz 2021) to varied Levels of Temperatures','H.B. Pavithra, Sharanabasappa S. Deshmukh, H.D. Mohan Kumar, C.M. Kalleshwaraswamy, Nagarajappa Adiveppar and V. Sridhar','116 Developmental Biology of Tomato Leaf Miner, Phthorimaea absoluta Meyrick (Chang and Metz 2021) to varied Levels of Temperatures Sharanabasappa S. Deshmukh.pdf','',1,'Tomato leafminer (TLM), Phthorimaea absoluta, an invasive and a key pest of tomato globally. Establishment of an invasive pest in an introduced environment is influenced by abiotic factors, among them temperature is one of the most important abiotic factors which determines the growth and development and number of generations per year. Temperature is one of the abiotic factors which influences the growth and development of the insect. This will be of great importance to determine the temperature ranges in which tomato leaf miner can grow best and it is essential for understanding its population dynamics and possible expansion in different agro-climatic zones. Hence, the present study was conducted to study the impact of different temperatures (10, 15, 20, 25, 30, 35 and 40 °C) at constant relative humidity (70 ± 5%) on development and survival of TLM. The results revealed that duration of incubation period, larval and pupal period decreased with increasing temperature. Fecundity and egg viability of TLM was maximum at 30°C. (141.59 eggs/female and 90.93 per cent respectively). Pre-oviposition, oviposition and position period was extended at 15°C. With respect to longevity of adults, females lived longer than males at all the temperatures tested. Egg to adult cycle was of shorter duration at 30 (30.54 days) and 35°C (23.58 days) whereas the duration was longer at 15°C (74.58 days). Thus, temperature had significant effect on various biological parameters of TLM.','Tomato leaf miner (TLM), invasion, biology, temperature','Results of the present study indicates that, P. absolutais able to complete lifecycle at wide range of temperature. However, development was ceased at temperature 10 °C and 40 °C and also duration was extended at the lower temperature. From the present study it is clearly showed that the temperature ranged between 25 to 30°C found to be optimum for growth, development and reproduction of TLM. As the temperature was increased, developmental period decreased. These observations will be helpful in predicting population development and the regions where the pest can spread. The pest\'s minimum and maximum temperature requirement would help us to forecast the pest\'s likely distribution as well as the time when it would begin inflicting damage. ','INTRODUCTION \r\nTomato crop is attacked by a variety of pests and diseases from planting to harvest. Among the various insect pests attacking tomato, tomato leafminer (TLM), Phthorimaea absoluta Meyrick (Chang and Metz 2021) also known as tomato pinworm, a recently introduced pest of tomato (Lepidoptera: Gelechiidae) which has become a major bottleneck and has also resulted in significant reduction in yield (Biondi et al., 2018). In India, the occurrence of this pest wasinitially detected atIndian Institute of Horticultural Research (IIHR), Hesaraghatta, Bengaluru and Pune, Ahmednagar, Dhule, Jalgaon, Nashik, and Satara Districts of Maharashtra during 2014 (Sridhar et al., 2014; Shashank et al., 2015) and in malnad region of Karnataka (Kalleshwaraswamy et al., 2015). The TLM is an extremely devastating pest that may decrease fruit quality, or even, cause 50-100% losses in open field and greenhouse crops, mainly if control methods are not applied (Nayana et al., 2018). Because of its high reproductive potential, multivoltinism and potential to acclimatize to different climatic conditions, TLM is currently considered a key limiting phytosanitary factor affecting the global Solanaceous crops value chain (Desneux, 2011). Plants are damaged by direct feeding on leaves, stems, buds, calyx, young fruits and also on ripe fruits (Shashank et al., 2018). Furthermore, damage is also caused by the invasion of secondary pathogens which enter through the wounds made by the pest (EPPO, 2005). For an invasive species to be established, it first has to overcome several environmental barriers. The potential for an insect species to become a pest is influenced by a variety of factors. Among the abiotic factors, temperature is a critical abiotic element because it influences insect development, survival and reproduction (Gavkare and Sharma 2017). As TLM is an invasive species, it has a strong potential to spread to larger areas in the coming years owing to atmospheric changes or other factors. As a result, understanding the environmental variables that affect the pest\'s life would be crucial in determining the best measures to be taken to combat this pest (Ozgocke et al., 2016). \r\nDetermining the appropriate temperature conditions for the pest is essential in terms of the studies of population dynamics. The knowledge obtained will be of great value to assess the incidence in different regions and give scientific bases for its control. Predicting the seasonal occurrence and abundance of any pest is essential for the accurate scheduling of control tactics. Such predictions require an understanding of the relationship between insect development rate and temperature. Hence, understanding the impact of external factors such as temperature on the growth, survival, reproduction and rate of increase of insect populations is necessary. The present study was conducted to estimate optimum thermal requirement of tomato leafminer, P. absoluta in Biochemical Oxygen Demand (BOD) incubator and the effect of temperature on its development, reproduction (pre-oviposition, oviposition, post-oviposition periods and fecundity) and longevity was studied.\r\nMETHODOLOGY\r\nRearing of insect culture. Later instar larvae of TLM were collected from infested tomato fields near Kommanal village (13°5825. 97N; 075°3443.86E) and reared in laboratory at Department of Entomology, College of Agriculture, Shivamogga. Field collected larvae were reared on tomato leaves in insect rearing cages for one generation before using for the experiments. Adults thus emerged were transferred to insect rearing cages for mating and provided with 10 per cent honey solution in cotton swab as food and tomato leaves as an oviposition substrate. Eggs laid on a single day were used for the experiments. \r\nIncubation period, larval period, pupal period, pre-oviposition, oviposition, post-oviposition periods (in days) and fecundity (number of eggs/ female) for TLM were determined at seven different temperatures (10, 15, 20, 25, 30, 35 and 40 °C) at constant relative humidity of 70 ± 5%. The experiments were carried out in BOD growth chamber to study the endurance and development of TLM on tomato (hybrid, JKTH 811) in the laboratory. The experiment was performed in two steps.\r\nAssessment of development and survival of egg, larvae and pupal stages of TLM. The rate of development and survival of immature stages of TLM were evaluated at constant temperature as mentioned above. For each temperature with a constant relative humidity treatment, 20 eggs laid on a single day were transferred carefully with the help of a fine camel hair brush to tomato leaflets, the end of petiole was then inserted in moist cotton swab and wrapped with aluminum foil to delay wilting/drying of leaflets and kept in insect breeding boxes (9cm diameter). Then the whole set up was placed in BOD incubator and incubated on the respective temperature. The experiment was replicated five times with 100 eggs per trial (each temperature) in total. These eggs were observed daily for hatching, once the eggs had hatched, observations were recorded on incubation period, larval period and pupal period. Newly emerged larvae were reared individually on tomato leaflets (petiole wrapped with moist cotton) in insect breeding boxes at the respective temperatures. When larvae consumed on an average 70 to 80 per cent of the leaves or when leaves began to wilt, new leaves were provided. The leaves were replaced until the last larva pupated. Observations on the development time and survival of each larval in star were recorded and pupal sexing was done as described by Nayana and Kalleshwaraswamy (2015).\r\nAssessment of fecundity and longevity TLM during its adult stage at respective temperature and relative humidity. Pupae thus obtained were sexed and kept separately for adult emergence. Adults obtained from larvae reared at each temperature were used to determine the fecundity and fertility of TLM. Adults developed from the pupae were kept in pairs in small cage (15 cm breadth × 21.5 cm length and 15 cm height) and was provided with 25 days old tomato seedling (oviposition substrate) for egg laying and 10 per cent honey solution in cotton swab as food. The oviposition substrate was observed for egg laying and replaced daily until the last adult died. Observations on daily survival, fecundity, adult longevity, pre-oviposition period, oviposition period and post-oviposition period were recorded. The mean incubation period larval and mean pupal duration was taken according to the treatment and statistical analysis was performed. \r\nData analysis. The experiment was conducted in completely randomized design with five treatments and twenty replications. The data regarding incubation period, larval and pupal duration, fecundity and fertility of females, male and female adult longevity of P. absoluta was recorded and expressed in days and the data was subjected to one way ANOVA with Tukeys test.\r\nRESULT AND DISCUSSION\r\nThe influence of temperature on life cycle of the TLM from egg to adult was studied at respective temperature treatments. But population development ceased at 10 and 40°C. Though eggs hatched at these temperatures but no larvae developed through to adult moths and hence the data at these temperatures were not included for the analysis.\r\nAssessment of development and survival of egg, larvae and pupal stages of TLM. Significant variation was recorded with respect to incubation period, larval and pupal period at different temperature treatments and constant relative humidity. The shortest incubation period was of 2.05 days at 35 °C and longest incubation period was observed at 15 °C (8.88 days). The mean larval development (time taken from egg hatching to pupation) was extended in the population maintained at 15°C (33.99 days), while mean larval development period of 11.39 days at 25 °C was significantly at par with at 30 °C (10.93 days). Duration of pupal period was inversely proportional to temperature. Mean pupal duration was15.52 days at 20 °C and 15.06± 1.12 days at 15 °C as compared to 9.65, 5.70 and 4.19 days for the pupae incubated at 25, 30 and 35 ˚C, respectively and the difference was highly significant at all tested temperatures (Table 1). The present results are in line with the findings of Mahdi and Doumandji (2013), who reported that maximum and minimum duration of incubation period of 12.1 days at 15 °C and 4.1 days at 30 °C was observed likewise larval (23 days at 30 °C and 7.9 at 15 °C) and pupal developmental period (6.5 days at 30 °C and 36.4 days at 15 °C) was decreased with increase in temperature. Similarly, in another study Salama et al. (2014), recorded maximum duration of incubation period of 14.65 days at 15 ˚C and then decreased to 3.7 days 30 °C and also larval and pupal period decreased with increased temperature. Egg, larval and pupal duration were significantly shortened as the temperature increased in the above studies. Same trend with respect to development period was observed in the present study but longer duration with respect to each stage was observed in the above results than those recorded in the present study which may be due to different populations of the same species may have different development parameters (Lee and Elliott, 1998; Gomi et al., 2003). The above-mentioned studies were conducted with the populations of TLM from Algeria and Egypt and this may be one of the factors responsible for the reported differences in the effect of temperature on the development of TLM. The differences in the incubation period, larval and pupal development time reported in different studies could be also due to the differences in rearing temperature, tomato cultivars and the geographical populations of the insect used in different studies (Bernays and Chapman, 1994). In addition, variation in duration of different stages of the pest may also depend on for how many generations the insect was reared in the laboratory before using in the experiment, although the effect of this trait on TLM has not been determined.\r\n \r\nReproduction of TLM at different temperatures. Temperature significantly affected the pre-oviposition period, oviposition period, post-oviposition period of TLM (Table 1). The pre-oviposition period at 15 °C was 3.41 days and was at par with 20 °C (3.16 days) which was significantly longer than other temperatures. At 25 °C the pre-oviposition period was 2.53 days which was at par with 30 °C (2.52 days) and the shortest pre-oviposition period was recorded at 35 °C (2.22 days). Duration of oviposition period was 4.56 days at 35 °C, 5.02 days at 30 °C. 6.59 days at 25 °C, 8.07 days at 20 °C, 7.31 days at 15 °C. There was significant difference in oviposition period at 30 and 35 °C and the variation was on par at 15 °C, 20 °C and 25 °C. The post-oviposition period was shorter at 35 °C (2.47 days) and there was significant variation with respect to post-oviposition period at different temperature viz., 3.46, 4.88, 7.05 and 8.21 days at 30, 25, 20 and 15 °C, respectively (Table 1). The above results are in accordance with the findings of recent study conducted by Negi et al. (2020), that pre-oviposition period, oviposition period, post-oviposition period of TLM decreased with increase in temperature and the oviposition period was longest at 20°C (12.3 days). Thus, the environmental conditions such as temperature and relative humidity are factors influencing insect physiology and behaviour. Temperature has a direct influence on the insect activity and rate of development.\r\nFecundity of TLM at different temperatures. Mean number of eggs laid by TLM females varied significantly from one temperature to the other. Fecundity was highest at 30 °C (141.59 eggs/female), followed by 25 °C (136.73 eggs/female), 35 °C (128.66eggs/female) and 20 °C (112.91 eggs/female) and the lowest mean number of eggs/female recorded was 86.61 at 15 °C. Percent egg hatchability varied significantly among different rearing temperature and significantly lower percent of egg viability was at 15 °C (56.50 %) and maximum of 90.93 per cent egg viability was recorded at 30 °C followed by 78.33 per cent egg viability, 71.90 per cent egg viability, 61.92 per cent egg viability at 35, 25 and 20 °C respectively (Table 2). Similarly, Krechemer and Foerster (2015) reported highest fecundity of the pest at 25°C. Fecundity of TLM on tomato leaves at 25°C and 30 °C (136.73 and 141.59 eggs/female) obtained in the present study falls within the fecundity range (47.54-260 eggs/female) reported in previous studies at same temperature (Silva et al., 2015) but the mean production of egg was reduced at 35 ˚C.\r\nEffects of temperature on the longevity of TLM adults. Temperature inversely affected the longevity of males and females of TLM. The longevity of females was longer than males at each temperature selected. Female longevity was significantly less at 35 °C (9.25 days) and was longer at 15 °C (18.93 days). The longevity of females kept at 30, 25 and 20 °C was 11.00, 13.98 and 18.15 days, respectively. With respect to male longevity, duration varied significantly at different temperature. Male longevity was recorded to be on par at 30 (7.12 days) and 25 °C (7.28 days). At 15, 20 and 35 °C, male longevity was recorded to be 14.27 days, 9.84 days and 5.99 days, respectively (Table 2). In the present study with respect to adults’ longevity, females lived longer than males at all the tested temperature range, which was similar to the findings of other authors wherein females’ longevity were much longer than males (Haji et al., 1988; Coelho and Franca, 1987; Salama et al., 2014; Abo et al., 2021). Mahdi and Doumandji (2013) recorded average fecundity of maximum at 30 °C (71.4 eggs/female) and females’ longevity (6.47 days) was greater than males (2.6 days) at 30 °C as female body is rich in yolk substances\r\nEffects of temperature on the survival TLM. Mean per cent survival of TLM ranged from 7 to 90.8 per cent from egg to adult at varied temperatures, with maximum per cent survival was recorded at 25 °C (90.80 %) followed by 30 °C (85.00 %). The lowest per cent survival was found to be at 15 °C (7.00 %), 20 °C (23.80 %) and 35 °C (32.6 %) (Fig. 1). These results are in line with findings of Ozgocke et al. (2016), who have reported that the survival rates were higher at temperatures ranged 23-27.5°C than those of other temperatures tested and it was the lowest at 15 and 34°C.\r\nEffects of temperature on the egg to adult cycle in TLM. Total developmental period of egg to adult cycle of females was found to be shortest at 35 °C which accounted to be 23.58 days followed by 30.54 days at 30°C, 40.28 days at 25°C, 70.22 days at 20 °C and longest period was recorded at 15 °C (74.58 days). Similarly in males, duration of egg to adult was observed to be longest at 15°C (69.88 days) and shortest at 35°C (20.32 days) (Table 2). The above results are in line with the findings of Barrientos et al. (1998) that the duration of the developmental cycle of TLM was highly dependent on climatic conditions with an average development period of 76.3 days at 14 °C, 39.8 days at 19.7 °C and 23.8 days at 27.1°C.\r\nCuthbertson et al. (2013) reported that temperatures between 19 and 23 °C were the most conducive for moth development. Temperatures of 10 °C and lower were shown to be fatal for moth development. Similar results were recorded in the present study, wherein only few eggs of TLM though hatched at 10 °C, but failed to complete the cycle as larvae at this temperature were unable to burrow into the leaf epidermis which in turn suggest that 10 °C may be the lower end of the temperature range for the pest’s development. Machekano et al. (2018) reported that, the highest temperature where TLM could not survive was 43.0°C and the highest temperature for 100% survival was 37°C. In the present study also development and survival TLM was not observed at 40 °C. Therefore, P. absoluta\'s successful invasion, quick dissemination and establishment in the introduced area may have been aided by host plant availability, climate adaptability and high thermal tolerance to a greater extent. The rate of development was arrested at higher temperatures (45 ˚C), signifying the adverse effects of extreme temperatures on growth of insect, resulting in early mortality of larval population (Jaba et al., 2020). Also, extreme temperatures have an impact on its survival, especially while it is in its early growth stage. \r\nWith the increase in temperature, there was decrease in duration of respective stages of a pest at respective temperature. Like other lepidopterans, the developmental time of TLM increased with decrease in temperature (Park et al., 2014). This phenomenon can be explained by the ectothermic nature of insects. At high temperatures the metabolism is faster, hence developmental time becomes shorter and vice-versa (Benkova and Volf, 2007; Sgolastra et al., 2011; Damos and Savopoulou-Soultani 2012). In order to promote greater growth and development, the metabolic activity of the insect body is initiated between 26 °C and 34 °C. Also, as a direct effect of elevated temperature, increased temperature may increase the food demands of insects as a result of increased metabolic rates, perhaps leading to compensatory feeding (Levesque et al., 2002). Temperature is the most significant factor influencing the growth and development of insects (Bale et al., 2002). The effects of temperature on insects are species specific.\r\nTemperatures between 15 and 25°C are cited as highly favourable for TLM reproduction. Larvae develop well between 20 and 30°C (Martins et al., 2016). The highest temperature threshold that causes TLM mortality is 35°C. Temperatures below 20 °C increase the development period of the larval stage, that may expose this stage to abiotic and biotic mortality factors.\r\n','H.B. Pavithra, Sharanabasappa S. Deshmukh, H.D. Mohan Kumar, C.M. Kalleshwaraswamy, Nagarajappa Adiveppar and V. Sridhar (2022). Developmental Biology of Tomato Leaf Miner, Phthorimaea absoluta Meyrick (Chang and Metz 2021) to varied Levels of Temperatures. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 14(3): 687-692.'),(5347,'136','In situ Rice Straw Decomposition-Different Cutting Heights and Microbial Consortia, its Impact on Soil Microbial Population and Decomposition Rate','Samba Siva Rao D., R. Durai Singh, G. Srinivasan, K. Kumutha and P. Saravana Pandian','117 In situ Rice Straw Decomposition- Different Cutting Heights and Microbial Consortia, its Impact on Soil Microbial Population and Decomposition Rate Samba Siva Rao D.pdf','',1,'This study was to examine the impact of different cutting heights of rice straw and microbial inoculants on microbial population and C: N ratio. The residual amount of rice straw produced by different cutting methods 10 cm, 20 cm and full rice straw was 920 kg ha-1, 1,560 kg ha-1, 4320 kg ha-1 rice straw respectively. The experiment was laid out in split plot design and replicated thrice. The main plot contains different heights of rice straw i.e., 10 cm rice straw incorporation (M1), 20 cm rice straw incorporation (M2), full rice straw (M3) and sub plots contains different microbial consortia along with cow dung and Urea i.e., Bio mineralizer (2 kg/ tonne) (S1), Bio mineralizer (2 Kg/tonne of residue) + Cow dung slurry (5%) + Urea (1%) (S2), Pleurotus (5 kg/ ha) (S3), Pleurotus (5kg/ ha) + Cow dung slurry (5%) + Urea (1%) (S4), Silica solubilizing bacteria (5kg/ha) (S5), Silica solubilizing bacteria (5kg/ha) + Cow dung slurry (5%) + Urea (1 %) (S6), Control (S7). The higher number of bacteria, fungi and actinomycetes was recorded in different cutting heights of rice straw decomposition (10 cm, 20 cm and full rice straw) with the application of bio mineralizer (2 Kg/ tonne of residue) + Cow dung slurry (5%) + Urea (1%). The lower decomposition rate and microbial population was recorded in the control plot where the paddy straw was not sprayed with microbial consortia, cow dung and urea. ','Rice straw, Bio mineralizer, Cow dung, Urea, Decomposition, C: N ratio','The conclusion of the study was the application of microbial inoculants along with cow dung and urea is essential for decomposition of rice straw and narrow down the C: N ratio. In addition to this, application of TNAU bio mineralizer and silica solubilizing bacteria along with cow dung slurry (5 %) and urea (1 %) increases the rate of decomposition, narrow C: N ratio and soil microbial count which increases the nutrient availability for succeeding crop. Hence, the in-situ decomposition of paddy straw with different cutting heights (10 cm, 20 cm and full rice straw)with the application of bio mineralizer (2 kg/ tonne of residue) + cow dung slurry (5%) + Urea (1 %) is the best option to increase the rice straw decomposition rate, microbial population and nutrient availability for the next crop.','INTRODUCTION\r\nIn India, rice is grown in an area of 43.66 M. ha annually with a production of 118.87 million tonnes and average productivity of 2722 kg ha-1 (Indiastat, 2020). Thus, it generates a huge amount of residue in the form of straw when rice crop is harvested. Rice was harvested manually by cutting method or using machinery. In cutting method, the harvested rice straw and grain were taken to a threshing yard to separate rice straw and grain. As a result, a small amount of straw was left infield itself. While in machine harvesting the total paddy straw was dumped in the field which was unutilized by the farmers. Based on the type of harvesting the amount of residue left over in the field is varying from small to huge amounts. The farmers were considering the left over paddy straw as a waste product and it was burned in field itself. \r\nRice straw contains 0.57% N, 0.07% P2O5, 1.5% K2O, 0.1% (sulfur) S, and 5% silicon (Si) (Dobermann and Fairhurst 2002) and also reported that, at harvest stage the rice straw contains contain 0.5–0.8% N, 0.07–0.12% P2O5, 1.16–1.66% K2O, and 4–7% Si. The study conducted by Gupta et al. (2007) was proved that the in-situ incorporation of rice straw into the soil improves nutrient cycling, soil organic carbon (C), and yields of succeeding crops. The nutrient status of the paddy straw is well known but at the same time rice straw have the lower decomposition rate due to higher C: N ratio (50 to 60).\r\nIn this condition, if sowing is taken up immediately after the rice straw incorporation, the establishment of the crop is affected due to this wider C: N ratio and poor microbial population (Udayasoorian et al., 1997). In this connection the present study was taken up with the combinations of different cutting heights of paddy straw, microbial consortia alone and also with the combination of cow dung and urea to know the decomposition rate and microbial population at different intervals.\r\nMATERIALS AND METHODS\r\nField experiment was conducted at Agricultural College and Research Institute, Tamil Nadu Agricultural University, Madurai, Tamil Nadu during February 2020 to evaluate the impact of left-over rice straw after harvesting at different cutting heights (10 cm, 20 cm, and full rice straw) on microbial populations and decomposition rate. The experiment was laid out in split plot design and replicated thrice. The main plot contains different heights of rice straw i.e., 10 cm rice straw incorporation (M1), 20 cm rice straw incorporation (M2), full rice straw (M3) and sub plots contains different microbial consortia along with cow dung and Urea i.e., Bio mineralizer (2 kg/ tonne) (S1), Bio mineralizer (2 Kg/ tonne of residue) + Cow dung slurry (5%) + Urea (1%) (S2), Pleurotus (5 kg/ ha) (S3), Pleurotus (5kg/ ha) + Cow dung slurry (5%) + Urea (1%) (S4), Silica solubilizing bacteria (5kg/ha) (S5), Silica solubilizing bacteria (5kg/ha) + Cow dung slurry (5%) + Urea (1 %) (S6), Control (S7). \r\nRice is harvested manually with sickle as per the treatments. For M1 and M2 treatment plots, rice straw was harvested by leaving 10 cm and 20 cm stubble heights from the ground level butin M3 treatment plot only economic parts are harvested by leaving the total rice straw in field itself. The left-over paddy straw was chopped by using tractor mounted shredder in their respective plots. Strengthen the already presented bunds and buffer channels all around to avoid seepage of water along with the nutrients. Drainage channels were provided all around the experimental field for effective drainage. The bio mineralizer, SSB were made in to slurry with water in 2: 40 proportion, cow dung slurry (5 %) and urea (1 %) were prepared and sprinkled on the rice straw as per the treatments schedule.\r\nSoil samples were collected from the experimental plots at 15 days and 30 days interval. The soil samples powdered, sieved through 2 mm sieve and used for chemical and biological analysis. The decomposition rate was estimated from C: N ratio of the soil whereas the chemical and biological analysis was done by the following methods.\r\nThe analytical data of soil were subjected to statistical scrutiny as per the procedure given by Gomez and Gomez (1984). Wherever, the treatment differences were found significant (F test), critical differences were worked out at 5 per cent probability level and the values were furnished in the respective table. The treatment differences that were not significant were denoted as “NS”.\r\nRESULTS AND DISCUSSION\r\nEffect of in situ rice straw decomposition on microbial populations. Microbial population i.e., bacteria, fungi and actinomycetes were examined. Rice straw with different cutting heights and microbial inoculants had a significant impact on bacteria, fungi and actinomycetes population (Table 1, 2, 3).\r\nWith respect to in situ rice straw decomposition with different cutting heights higher microbial population of bacteria (at 15 days 36 cfu g-1 soil × 106 and at 30 days 67 cfu g-1 soil × 106), fungi (at 15 days 32 cfu g-1 soil × 104 and at 30 days 63 cfu g-1 soil × 104), actinomycetes (at 15 days 41cfu g-1 soil × 103and at 30 days 58cfu g-1 soil × 103) were recorded under the full rice straw decomposition treatment (M3) and the least microbial population of bacteria (at 15 days 33 cfu g-1 soil × 106 and at 30 days 60 cfu g-1 soil × 106), fungi (at 15 days 29 cfu g-1 soil × 104 and at 30 days 57 cfu g-1 soil × 104) and actinomycetes (at 15 days 37 cfu g-1 soil × 103 and at 30 days 52 cfu g-1 soil × 103) were recorded under 10 cm rice straw incorporation (M1).\r\nThe data regarding to the microbial consortia, higher microbial population was observed under the application of bio mineralizer (2 Kg/ tonne of residue) + Cow dung slurry (5%) + Urea (1%) (S2) (bacterial count at 15 days was 39 cfu g-1 soil × 106 and at 30 days 73 cfu g-1 soil × 106, fungal count at 15 days 35 cfu g-1 soil × 104 and at 30 days 68 cfu g-1 soil × 104 and actinomycetes count at 15 days 45 cfu g-1 soil × 103 and at 30 days 62cfu g-1 soil × 103).\r\nThis was on par with the application of silica solubilizing bacteria (5kg/ha) + Cow dung slurry (5%) + Urea (1 %) (S6) (bacterial count at 15 days was 39 cfu g-1 soil × 106 and at 30 days 71cfu g-1 soil × 106, fungal count at 15 days 34 cfu g-1 soil × 104 and at 30 days 67cfu g-1 soil × 104 and actinomycetes count at 15 days 44 cfu g-1 soil × 103 and at 30 days 61 cfu g-1 soil × 103). The lower microbial population of bacteria (at 15 days 27 cfu g-1 soil × 106 and at 30 days 51 cfu g-1 soil × 106), fungi (at 15 days 24 cfu g-1 soil × 104 and at 30 days 48cfu g-1 soil × 104) and actinomycetes (at 15 days 31 cfu g-1 soil × 103 and at 30 days 44 cfu g-1 soil × 103) were observed in the control plot i.e., without any microbial inoculant application.\r\nThe interaction effect of the in-situ paddy straw incorporation at different cutting heights and microbial inoculant showed the significant effect. The higher amount of microbial population i.e., at 15 days 43 cfu g-1 soil × 106 and at 30 days 79 cfu g-1 soil × 106), fungi (at 15 days 38 cfu g-1 soil × 104 and at 30 days 73 cfu g-1 soil × 104) and actinomycetes (at 15 days 48 cfu g-1 soil × 103 and at 30 days 68cfu g-1 soil × 103) was observed under full rice straw along with the application of bio mineralizer (2 Kg/ tonne of residue) + Cow dung slurry (5%) + Urea (1%) (M3S2) recorded and it was on par with full rice straw incorporation along with the application of silica solubilizing bacteria (5kg/ha) + Cow dung slurry (5%) + Urea (1 %) (M3S6) (at 15 days 42 cfu g-1 soil × 106 and at 79 days 51 cfu g-1 soil × 106), fungi (at 15 days 37 cfu g-1 soil × 104 and at 30 days 73 cfu g-1 soil × 104) and actinomycetes (at 15 days 48 cfu g-1 soil × 103 and at 30 days 67 cfu g-1 soil × 103). The lowest microbial population (at 15 days 26 cfu g-1 soil × 106 and at 30 days 49 cfu g-1 soil × 106), fungi (at 15 days 23 cfu g-1 soil × 104 and at 30 days 46 cfu g-1 soil × 104) and actinomycetes (at 15 days 30 cfu g-1 soil × 103 and at 30 days 42 cfu g-1 soil × 103) was observed in full rice straw incorporation alone without any application of microbial consortia, cow dung and urea (M3S7).\r\nThe combined application of chemical fertilizer and straw significantly increased soil microbial count over the control (Nie et al., 2007). According to Esther et al., (2013), in-situ incorporation of straw was showed maximum amount microbial count in soil and increased their content on soil over the control treatment. In field experiment, these results were in agreement with the findings of Mandal et al., (2004) who reported that microbial activity was higher in residue incorporated into the soil and the higher microbial biomass could be obtained through residue incorporation than their removal or burning. \r\nEffect of in situ rice straw decomposition on C: N ratio. C:N ratio of paddy straw was analysed at 15 and 30 Days and the ratio was declined with time. The C:N ratio was ranged from 37.40: 1 to 55.30: 1 at 15 days and progressively it declined to 20.10: 1 to 48.49: 1 at 30 days. The different cutting heights of rice straw incorporation with microbial inoculants, cow dung and urea cause the significant variation in C: N ratio between the treatments (Table 4).\r\nAt 15 days. The lower C: N ratio was recorded under the rice straw decomposition with the cutting of 10 cm (M1) (41: 1) and this was followed by the rice straw with the cutting height of 20 cm (M2) (48: 1). The higher C: N ratio was recorded in the treatment with the full rice straw decomposition (M3) (53: 1). \r\nWith respect to microbial inoculations, at 15 days the least C: N ratio was observed under the treatment bio mineralizer (2 Kg/ tonne of residue) + Cow dung slurry (5%) + Urea (1%) (S2) (45: 1). The highest C: N ratio was recorded under Control treatment without microbial, cow dung (5%) and urea (1%) application (S7) (50: 1).\r\nInteraction effect showed that least C: N ratio was found in full rice straw decomposition with bio mineralizer (2 kg/ tonne of residue) + cow dung slurry (5 %)+ urea (1 %) (M3S2) (52: 1) which was on par with full rice straw decomposition with Silica solubilizing bacteria (5kg/ha) + Cow dung slurry (5%) + Urea (1 %) (M3S6) (54: 1).\r\nAt 30 days. The lower C: N ratio was found in 10 cm rice straw incorporation (M1) (22: 1), 20 cm rice straw incorporation (M2) (27: 1) and the higher C: N ratio was recorded infull rice straw decomposition (M3) (45: 1).\r\nThe least C: N ratio was observed in bio mineralizer (2 Kg/ tonne of residue) + Cow dung slurry (5%) + Urea (1%) (S2) (30: 1) and the higher C: N ratio was noted in Control (S7) (35: 1).\r\nInteraction effect at 30 days showed that least C: N ratio was found in full rice straw decomposition with bio mineralizer (2 Kg/ tonne of residue) + cow dung slurry (5%) + Urea (1%) (M3S2) (20: 1) and it was on par with 10 cm rice straw decomposition with bio mineralizer (2 Kg/tonne of residue) + cow dung slurry (5%) + Urea (1%) (M1S2) (20: 1) and 20 cm rice straw incorporation bio mineralizer (2 Kg/tonne of residue) + cow dung slurry (5%) + urea (1%) (M2S2) (20.32: 1) and the lower C: N ratio was registered in full rice straw decomposition without microbial consortia, cow dung and urea (M3S7) (45: 1).\r\nThe different rice straw management practices helped to bring the C: N ratio by varying degree. Among the residue management practices, the rice straw decomposition with the cutting height of 10 cm, 20 cm and full rice straw along with the application of (2 kg/ tonne of residue) + cow dung (5 %) + urea (1%) (M1S2) decreased the C: N ratio. Gaur et al., (1987) was reported that effectiveness of inoculation with a suitable microorganism will speed up the bio degradation process and reduction in C: N ratio. The effective biodegradation of residue was confirmed with microbial inoculants to bring down the C: N ratio to an arrow level (Esther et al., 2013).\r\nRice residue (straw and stubbles) contains high amount of silica, cellulose and lignin, these major chemical constituents were easily degraded by using microbial inoculants (bio-mineralizer and cow dung slurry), it favours the gradual release of nutrient and 25 kg additional N enhanced the initial crop growth. These results are in line with the findings of Singh et al. (2005); Kumari et al. (2008); Singh et al. (2008).\r\nThe C: N ratio was reduced in all the treatments with passage of time but there was wide variation in the treatments this was due to the microbial development during the time gap which increased the degradation process and released the available nutrients present in the added rice straw to bring down the C: N ratio. This was in agreement with the findings of Azmal et al., (1997). \r\n','Samba Siva Rao D., R. Durai Singh, G. Srinivasan, K. Kumutha and P. Saravana Pandian (2022). In situ Rice Straw Decomposition- different Cutting Heights and Microbial Consortia, its Impact on Soil Microbial Population and Decomposition Rate. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 14(3): 693-698.'),(5348,'136','Formulation and characterization of Lemon Peel Essential Oil Loaded Corn Starch Nanoemulsion','Aruna T., Hemalatha G., Kanchana S. and Lakshmanan A.','118 Formulation and characterization of Lemon Peel Essential Oil Loaded Corn Starch Nanoemulsion Aruna T.pdf','',1,'Lemon (Citrus limon) belonging to the family Rutaceae, is the third most cultivated citrus fruit after orange and mandarin. Lemon processing industry produces a huge amount of waste as lemon peel and lemon seed which are generally discarded. The lemon peel is a rich source of bio active compounds that possess significant antibacterial and antioxidant property. Lemon peel essential oil which is extracted from lemon peel can be used as a natural preservative in diverse food systems to extend the shelf life of the product. Direct addition of lemon peel essential oil in food system has several limitations such as high volatility and strong organoleptic property of the essential oil. This can be overcome by encapsulating the lemon peel essential oil in a suitable delivery system. Nanoemulsion coating solution can be formulated using lemon peel essential oil and a biological polymer (corn starch). Lemon peel essential oil loaded corn starch nanoemulsion (CS-LPEO) was formulated by using different concentration of lemon peel essential oil (0.3, 0.5 and 0.7%) and corn starch (2 and 3%). The particle size of the nanoemulsions were in the range of 340.10 to 358.40 nm having polydispersity index ranging from 0.3 to 0.5. The zeta potential of the nanoemulsion varied from -34.00 to -45.00 mV. The encapsulation efficiency was as high as 83.85% among the different treatments. The whiteness index of the CS-LPEO was around 50.92 and the viscosity of the nanoemulsion was between 10.80 to 18.30 cP. The FTIR absorption peak of the LPEO and corn starch was compared with that of CS-LPEO nanoemulsion and the morphology of the CS-LPEO nanoemulsion was observed through scanning electron microscope. By this, the lemon peel essential oil was entrapped using a suitable edible delivery system that can be directly used in the food system for preservation process. ','Lemon peel essential oil, corn starch, nanoemulsion','Edible nanoemulsion solutions can be formulated using corn starch (2 and 3 per cent) and lemon peel essential oil (0.3, 0.5 and 0.7 per cent). Characterization of the edible nanoemulsion indicated that the nanoemulsion formulated with 0.7 per cent of lemon peel essential oil and 3 per cent of corn starch had higher encapsulation efficiency and in vitro release percentage. Therefore, the formulated edible nanoemulsion solution can be used as an edible coating over whole or cut fruits and vegetables.','INTRODUCTION\r\nAgriculture and food processing industries generate a huge amount of by-products as wastes such as peel, rind, stem, stalk, seeds and leaves as wastes. The waste from the food industries should be valorized as this poses a major environmental treat. Citrus fruits which belongs to the family Rutaceae comprises of 17 species which includes Citrus indica, Citrus latipes, Citrus aurantium, Citrus macroptera, Citrus megaloxycarpa, Citrus jambhiri, Citrus ichangenesis and Citrus reticulate. Citrus limon is the third most important citrus fruit following Citrus sinensis and Citrus reticulate. Generally, citrus fruits are consumed as such or processed into juice. Citrus processing industries produce a large amount of waste as citrus peel and citrus seeds. Citrus peel can be used to extract essential oil by various methods such as cold pressing, hydro-distillation, steam distillation and solvent extraction. Citrus essential oil contains a mixture of terpinoids, terpenes and other aromatic and aliphatic compounds (Yazgan et al., 2019). \r\nLemon peel essential oil contains natural antimicrobial and antioxidant properties. It is effective against several food borne pathogens such as E. coli, Salmonella typhimurium, Staphylococcus aureus, Listeria monocytogenes, and Camphylobacter (Calo et al., 2015). Lemon peel essential oil contains limonene, which is responsible for the antimicrobial property and also responsible for the distinct aroma of the lemon fruit. The bioactive compounds in citrus peels namely limonene, citral, linalool, α pinene, β pinene, β myrcene and γ terpinene can be used to treat various health problems such as spasms, fever, respiratory problems, cardiovascular diseases, gastrointestinal problems or anxiety (Martínez-Abad et al., 2020). \r\nLemon peel essential oil has good scope for application as natural preservative in food system. Lemon peel essential oil can be used as edible coating over whole or cut fruits and vegetables to extend the shelf life of the product both in quality and safety aspects. Direct incorporation of lemon peel essential oils in food products becomes a formidable challenge because of its hydrophobic nature, high volatility, low stability, high susceptibility to environmental conditions and strong organoleptic property. This can be overcome by encapsulating the essential oils in a suitable delivery system compatible with the food system (Prakash et al., 2018). Biological polymer such as polysaccharides, proteins, lipid or gum can be used to carry the essential oil. Polysaccharide such as corn starch can be used as a biological polymer to carry the essential oil as the corn starch yield colorless, odorless, tasteless and non-toxic costing solution. \r\nHence, the present study aims the formulation and characterization of corn starch edible nanoemulsion loaded with lemon peel essential oil. \r\nMATERIALS AND METHODS\r\nProcurement and processing of lemon peel\r\nProcurement of lemon peel. Lemon (Citrus limon) peel was procured from the local juice shops of Madurai who were in prior advised on good processing practices to assure the hygienic collection of the citrus peel.\r\nProcessing of lemon peel. The lemon peel was separated from the endocarp (inner pulp) of the fruits and cut into small pieces (approximately 1×1cm) and dried by shade drying method until the sample reaches the moisture content of 10 per cent after which the samples were powdered and sieved using a sieve of British Standard (BS) 60 mesh sieve to get uniform size particle. \r\nExtraction of lemon peel essential oil by hydro distillation method. The extraction of essential oil from lemon peel was carried out by hydro distillation method which was carried out in Clevenger apparatus for about 3 hours at 95°C using the solid solvent ratio of 1:20. The sample material was directly immersed in water and the solid-liquid mixture was heated until boiling under atmospheric pressure. The extraction was carried out from the first drop of distillate until the amount of essential oils stabilized.\r\nPreparation and characterization of edible nanoemulsion coating solution loaded with Lemon Peel Essential Oil (LPEO) \r\nPreparation of corn starch loaded with lemon peel essential oil (CS-LPEO) edible nanoemulsion. Edible nanoemulsions (T1 to T6) were formulated with corn starch solution (2 and 3 percent) as wall material, lemon peel essential oil (0.3, 0.5 and 0.7 per cent) as core material and Tween 20 (concentration as same as the concentration of the lemon peel essential oil) as an emulsifier. \r\nA modified method of Abbasi et al. (2021) was followed for the preparation of CS-LPEO nanoemulsion coating solution. Corn starch solution was prepared using Sigma Aldrich corn starch. Corn starch (2 and 3%) and Glycerol (1 and 1.5%) were dissolved in distilled water and heated at 90°C with constant stirring for 10 minutes until gelatinization and allowed to cool at 40°C. Coarse emulsion was prepared by mixing the corn starch solution with lemon peel essential oil at 0.3, 0.5 and 0.7 per cent which was previously mixed well with Tween 20 (v/v with respect to the volume of essential oil) as surfactant in ultrasonic bath sonicator for 10 minutes with a known amount of distilled water. The mixture was homogenized well using a High Shear Homogenizer (220-240V power: 50Hz frequency) at 8000 rpm for 15 minutes. Nanoemulsion coating solution was obtained by subjecting the above emulsion to high pressure homogenizer (model: FPG 11300, Stansted Fluid Power Ltd., Essex, UK) at 200 MPa for 5 passes. \r\nStandardization of edible nanoemulsion coating solution loaded with LPEO. Based on the percentage of corn starch and essential oil, the following treatments (Table 1) are standardized for the development of edible nanoemulsion of citrus peel essential oil. \r\nPhysico chemical characterization of corn starch loaded with lemon peel essential oil (CS-LPEO) edible nanoemulsion. The physicochemical properties such as particle size, polydispersity index, zeta potential, encapsulation efficiency, in vitro release percentage, color value, whiteness index and viscosity of CS-LPEO nanoemulsion (T1 to T6) were analysed by the procedure given below. \r\nParticle Size Analysis and Poly Dispersity Index (PDI) of edible nanoemulsion loaded with LPEO. The particle size of the lemon peel essential oil nanoemulsions was measured using Nano particle analyzer sz-100 at 633 nm, 25°C. Water (refractive index-1.333) was used as a dispersive medium for all the samples. The 0.5μl of sample was suspended in 10ml of water and subjected to sonication process for 5 minutes in a water bath type sonicator and the readings were taken immediately for better dispersion of the samples. The average droplet size (z- average) and PDI was recorded. The PDI value is the measure of heterogeneity in the droplet size distribution. The PDI values close to 0 indicate homogenous size distributions, whereas PDI values close to 1 indicate heterogenous size distributions (Noori et al., 2018).\r\nZeta potential of edible nanoemulsion loaded with LPEO. Electrophoretic mobility of high pressure homogenized edible nanoemulsions was estimated using the Nano particle analyzer sz-100. The zeta potential measurement was carried out on the diluted solutions (0.5μl sample in 10 ml of water) at neutral pH (pH 7). Using a syringe, 1 mL of the appropriate solution was injected in the measurement vessel (special tank U-shaped). The vessel was then positioned in the optical drive of the apparatus. Temperature was set at 25°C and voltage applied was 3.9V. Duration of analysis was approximately 10 minutes (Noori et al., 2018).\r\nEncapsulation efficiency of edible nanoemulsion loaded with LPEO. Encapsulation efficiency of the edible nanoemulsion can be determined by using the following equation.\r\nEncapsulation efficiency (%) = (EO loaded/ EO total) 100 \r\nwhere [EO loaded] = [EO]tot -[EO] free (total and free contents of essential oil in the nanoemulsion suspension). The total amount of essential oil in the nanoemulsion was determined by Double beam UV-VIS Spectrophotometer 2201 over wavelengths ranging from 250 to 450 nm (λmax 274). 1 ml of edible nanoemulsion was treated with 9 ml of acetonitrile and the mixture was centrifuged at 3500 rpm for 15 minutes. An aliquot (4 ml) of the supernatant was diluted with 20 ml of acetonitrile and the amount of essential oil was derived by the absorbance at 274 nm. The free essential oil content in the nanoemulsion was determined by ultra filtration technique. A total of 5 ml of the nanoemulsion was ultra filtered using a membrane filter (0.25m) and 2 ml of the filtrate was diluted with 20 ml of acetonitrile. The absorbance was recorded at 274 nm using a spectrophotometer (Granata et al., 2021).\r\nThe study of the in vitro release of LPEO from the edible nanoemulsion. The in vitro release profile of LPEO from the nanoemulsion was studied using phosphate buffer solution (pH 7.4). The LPEO loaded nanoparticles (750 l) from the aqueous suspension was separated by centrifugation at 10,000 rpm for 5 minutes at 25°C. The separated nanoparticles were resuspended in the buffer solution (1200 l) and incubated at 25°C under general shaking. At definite time interval, samples were withdrawn and centrifuged at 10,000 rpm for 5 minutes at 25°C. 100 l of the supernatant was mixed with 3 ml of ethanol and the in vitro release of LPEO was recorded spectrophometrically at 275 nm (Esmaeili and Asgari 2015). Cumulative percentage of LPEO release was calculated using the equation given below.\r\n \r\nWhere\r\nMt - cumulative amount of LPEO released to each sampling time point, \r\nt- time of release of LPEO-loaded in the nanoemulsion \r\nM0- initial weight of the LPEO-loaded in the nanoemulsion.\r\nColor value and whiteness index of the edible nanoemulsion loaded with LPEO. The colour values of the developed nanoemulsions were recorded using the Hunter lab meter. The L* value was used to measure the lightness ranging from 0 to 100. The + a* value represents red,- a* represents green, +b* represents yellow and −b* represents blue. Three readings were taken for each sample. The results presented were the means of three values. Distilled water was used as reference (Farahmandfar et al., 2020).\r\nWhiteness indices of samples were calculated by formula given below (Das et al., 2020). \r\nWhiteness Index= 100- [(100-L*)2 + a*2 + b*2]1/2\r\nViscosity of the edible nanoemulsion coated loaded with LPEO. Viscosity of edible nanoemulsions was analyzed by Brooke field viscometer using spindle No. 62 at 100rpm. 100ml of the nanoemulsion was placed in beaker for viscosity analysis. Values (cP) were recorded after 30 s for 3 times. The sample holder was cleaned after each reading and values were recorded (Rao and McClements 2012).\r\nStudy of the Fourier Transform Infrared Spectroscopy (FTIR) profiles of edible nanoemulsion loaded with LPEO. The FTIR profiles of corn starch, tween 20, lemon peel essential oil and corn starch essential oil nanoemulsion were recorded and corrected by air background using a JASCO ATR-FTIR equipped with spectrum software (Spectra measurement JASCO/B006661794, Tensor27, Bruker, Bremen, Germany). The spectra were generated in absorption mode (1655-1615 cm-1) with the resolution of 4 cm-1 (Liu and Liu, 2020). \r\nStudy of the morphology of edible nanoemulsion loaded with LPEO using Scanning Electron Microscope (SEM). A piece of the lemon peel essential oil loaded edible nanoemulsion film was attached to a cylinder stub. The film specimen was dried at 40°C overnight and coated with platinum using an ion sputter. The coated film was further investigated for its microstructure using a scanning electron microscope with an acceleration voltage of 5 kV (Elshamy et al., 2021).\r\n\r\nRESULTS AND DISCUSSION\r\nYield of lemon peel essential oil. The yield of lemon peel essential oil (LPEO) from shade dried lemon peel (C. limon) by hydro-distillation method was about 1.5 per cent. \r\nPhysicochemical characteristics of corn starch loaded with lemon peel essential oil (CS-LPEO) edible nanoemulsion. The physicochemical properties such as particle size, polydispersity index, zeta potential, encapsulation efficiency, in vitro release percentage, color value, whiteness index and viscosity of CS-LPEO nanoemulsion (T1 to T6) formulated with different concentration of corn starch (2 and 3 percent) and lemon peel essential oil (0.3, 0.5 and 0.7 per cent) were analysed and the results were presented in Table 2 and 3. \r\nParticle size, polydispersity index (PDI) and zeta potential of CS-LPEO edible nanoemulsions. The term nanoemulsion refers to oil-in-water (o/w) emulsions with mean droplet diameters between 50 and 1000 nm. Typically, droplet sizes range from 100 to 500 nm. Particle size and polydispersity index are crucial markers for describing the quality, stability, homogeneity, and dispersibility of nanoemulsions. The particle size of the nanoemulsions was in the range of 340.10 nm to 358.40 nm. The size of the treatment T1 was 345.40 nm, T2 was 346.10 nm, T3 was 358.40 nm, T4 was 340.10 nm, T5 was 349.00 nm and T6 was 355.10 nm. \r\nThe PDI can range from 0 to 1, where 0 (zero) stands for monodisperse system and 1 for a polydisperse particle dispersion. The PDI of the LPEO nanoemulsions of the present study were in the range of 0.3 to 0.5 which denotes the monodispersed (homogenous) distribution of particles in nanoemulsion. \r\nThe zeta potential is a method of measuring surface charge of particles when it is placed in liquid medium. It provides an accurate description of an emulsion droplet\'s electrical properties. Zeta potential is used for predicting dispersion stability. The zeta potential of corn starch based nanoemulsion loaded with LPEO was in the range of -34.00 to -45.00 as the surface charge of the corn starch molecule was negative. Zeta potential of ±30 mV is believed to be sufficient for ensuring physical stability of nanoemulsion. High zeta potential nanoemulsion particles are electrically stabilized; while, low zeta potential nanoemulsion particles are more prone to flocculation and coagulation. \r\nThe particle size of nanoemulsion formulated with banana starch and lemongrass essential oil was in the range of 180 to 596 nm and banana starch and rosemary essential oil in the range of 164 to 676 nm (Restrepo et al., 2018). Manzoor et al., (2021) reported the particle size of the nanoemulsion formulated with sodium alginate and ascorbic acid to be in the range of 220 to 335 nm. The PDI of sodium alginate based nanoemulsion loaded with Citrus sinensis essential oil was determined as 0.3 by Das et al., (2020). Salvia-Trujillo et al., (2013) had reported the zeta potential of lemongrass oil-alginate nanoemulsion as -46 mV. \r\nEncapsulation efficiency of CS-LPEO edible nanoemulsions. Encapsulation efficiency (EE) is a measure of the ability of a nanocarrier to retain the drug/active ingredient and deliver an adequate amount of the component to the targeted site (Che Marzuki et al., 2019). The EE of nanoemulsion formulated with 2 per cent corn starch and 0.3, 0.5 and 0.7 per cent LPEO was 60.00, 81.00 and 82.00 per cent, respectively whereas the EE of nanoemulsion formulated with 3 per cent corn starch with 0.3 per cent LPEO was 76.66 per cent, with 0.5 per cent LPEO was 82.85 per cent and with 0.7 per cent LPEO it was 83.85 per cent. The higher EE of corn starch nanoemulsion was found in treatment T6 (83.85%). \r\nIn vitro release of CS-LPEO edible nanoemulsions. Drug release from particles generally occurs by various mechanisms such as disintegration, surface erosion, desorption and diffusion. The dominant mechanism of drug release is mainly by diffusion of drug from the particles into the medium (Esmaeili and Asgari, 2015). The release behavior of LPEO from CS-LPEO nanoemulsion in phosphate buffer (pH 7.4) was characterized by three different stages (initial burst release, steady state release and stationary phase release). The initial burst of LPEO from the nanoemulsion occurred within 3 hours of the test period. The LPEO release from nanoemulsion in phosphate buffer was in the range of 57.68- 62.74 per cent. This might be due to instant diffusion and weak interaction functional group of LPEO attached to the surface layer of nanoemulsion. The second steady state release of drug happened between 3-12 hours. The release percentage was higher at this phase and reached upto 94.64 per cent of release of LPEO. The final stationary phase release of drug occurred between 12-48 hours in which there was only a small increase in release percentage after which the release of LPEO reached a plateau. The release of LPEO was significantly higher (P<0.05) in T6 when compared with other treatments. \r\nColor value and whiteness index of CS-LPEO edible nanoemulsions. The color parameters (L*, a*, b*) and the whiteness index of the LPEO loaded nanoemulsions were determined. It was observed that the whiteness index of treatments T1 to T3 was in the range of 49.25 to 49.75 and T4 to T6 was in the range of 49.79 to 50.92. Salvia-Trujillo et al. (2013) reported that the whiteness index of nanoemulsion formulated with sodium alginate loaded with lemongrass essential oil was 42.79. It was also reported that the whiteness index of nanoemulsion prepared from pectin with oregano essential oil was 55.79, thyme essential oil was 43.29, lemongrass essential oil was 39.89 and mandarin essential oil was 38.61 (Guerra-Rosas et al., 2016). \r\nViscosity of CS-LPEO edible nanoemulsions. The viscosity of an emulsion is highly dependent on the compositions of its surfactant, water, and oil components, as well as their concentrations. From the results, it was found that the viscosity of the corn starch LPEO edible nanoemulison was in the range of 10.80 to 18.30 cP. Salvia-Trujillo et al., (2015) reported that the viscosity of coarse emulsions formulated with sodium alginate and essential oils (lemongrass, clove, tea tree, thyme, geranium, marjoram, palmarosa, rosewood, sage or mint) ranged from 22.95 to 36.05 mPa.s, whereas the viscosity of the nanoemulsions were in the range of 9.77 and 14.95 mPa.s. which may be due to the droplet size of the nanoemulsion.\r\nFourier Transformation Infrared Spectroscopy (FTIR) analysis of CS-LPEO edible nanoemulsions. The FTIR spectroscopy is based on an infrared beam that travels through a material, where it is primarily absorbed and part of it is transmitted. The resulting spectrum gives the sample a molecular fingerprint by displaying the molecule absorption and transmission. Each sample fingerprint has distinct absorption peaks that correspond to the frequencies of vibrations between the atoms of the material. Because each material is a unique combination of atoms, no two compounds produce the same infrared spectrum. As a result, infrared spectroscopy can positively identify various materials. Furthermore, the size of the peaks in the spectrum indicates the amount of material present in the sample (Silva et al., 2012). \r\nThe FTIR spectrum of LPEO, Tween 20, corn starch and CS-LPEO is given in Fig. 1. From the spectrum of LPEO, the stretching vibration of C=O was observed at 1643 cm-1. Peaks of aromatic C-H out-of-plane bend was observed at 886 cm-1 and 797 cm-1 and a peak of aromatic C-H in plane bend was present at 949 cm-1 which evinces the presence of limonene, α-pinene; β-pinene and γ-terpinenes in the LPEO. The above mentioned peaks are not observed in other spectra which confirmed the encapsulation of LPEO into corn starch in the nanoemulsion. This result was in agreement with Li et al. (2018) who had reported the FTIR spectra of citrus essential oil had a stretching vibration of 1646 cm-1 and the peak corresponds to the presence of limonene at 886 cm-1. Similar studies of FTIR spectra of lemon essential oil was determined by Nunes et al., (2021) who had observed the aromatic rings at 797 cm−1, 886 cm−1 and 948 cm−1 that indicated the presence of limonene, α-pinene, β-pinene and γ-terpinenes respectively.\r\nThe FTIR spectrum of Tween 20 indicated the presence of –OH stretch at 3458 cm-1, asymmetric and symmetric methylene stretch at 2925 cm-1 and 2861 cm-1. Presence of carbonyl stretching (C=O) was found at 1739 cm-1, and stretch vibration of C-O was present at 1093 cm-1. Ortiz-Tafoya and Tecante (2018) evaluated the FTIR spectra of Tween 20 and reported the presence of O-H stretching at 3476 cm-1, asymmetric and symmetric methylene stretching vibrations at 2920/2860 cm-1, carbonyl stretching at 1734 cm-1 and stretch vibration of –CH2-O-CH2 at 1095 cm-1. \r\nThe FTIR spectrum of corn starch revealed the presence of hydrogen bonded –OH stretching vibration at 3326 cm-1. Presence of methyl asymmetric/symmetric stretching and methylene asymmetric/symmetric stretching at 2970 cm-1and 2948 cm-1 are the characteristic peaks of corn starch. A peak at 897 cm-1 represented the C-H bending out of plane ring of polysaccharides. Similar result was reported by Ji et al., (2018) for corn starch. The peak at 3285 cm-1 represented the hydrogen-bonded –OH groups of starch whereas the peak at 2,900 cm-1 attributed to the CH2- asymmetric stretching of – CH2OH groups in starch.\r\nIn CS-LPEO nanoemulsion spectrum, the peak was shifted from 3326 cm-1 to 3338 cm-1 (O-H stretching) and 897 cm-1 to 898 cm-1 (C-H bending out of plane ring of monosaccharides). A new peak was observed at 1995 cm-1 of C=C=C stretching. The distinctive peak of LPEO was not present in the CS-LPEO nanoemulsion, indicating that corn starch had been used to encapsulate the essential oil in the nanoemulsion formulation.\r\nMorphology of CS-LPEO edible nanoemulison using Scanning Electron Microscope (SEM). The SEM can generate high-resolution images of a sample\'s surface. The SEM images have a distinct three-dimensional appearance and are useful for determining surface structure (Silva et al., 2012). The size of the nanoemulsion measured in the micrograph (200 nm -300 nm) was in accordance with the mean particle size of the nanoemulsion measured (Fig. 2). The shape of the nanoemulsion was somewhat spherical in CS-LPEO nanoemulsions. This result was in accordance with the result reported by Wu et al. (2016) who reported the shape of citrus essential oil loaded nanoemulsion as spherical. The size and shape of the final droplets were greatly influenced by the ratio of wall material (corn starch) and core material (LPEO) used. Distribution of nanoemulsion was fairly dense in the nanoemulsions. The surface of the nanoemulsion was rough that might be due to the presence of LPEO.\r\n','Aruna T., Hemalatha G., Kanchana S. and Lakshmanan A. (2022). Formulation and characterization of Lemon Peel Essential Oil Loaded Corn Starch Nanoemulsion. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 14(3): 699-706.'),(5349,'136','Studies on Genetic Variability, Heritability and Genetic Advance for Seed Yield and its Components in Indian Mustard [Brassca juncea (L.) Czern & Coss.]','Rajendra Kumar, Ashok Kumar, Tarkeshwar and Dheerendra Kumar','119 Studies on Genetic Variability, Heritability and Genetic Advance for Seed Yield and its Components in Indian Mustard [Brassca juncea (L.) Czern & Coss.] Tarkeshwar.pdf','',1,'India is the second largest rapeseed–mustard cultivating country in the world after China and third in production after China and Canada, rapeseed-mustard holds a prominent place in the country’s economy. The present investigation has been carried out to study the inter-relationships and direct and indirect effects of yield contributing traits toward seed yield. The experiment was carried out at the Research Farm, Institute of Agriculture Science, Bundelkhand University, Jhansi (U.P.). The experimental material comprising 100 treatments viz., (10 parents + 45 F1\'s + 45 F2\'s) were evaluated in Randomized Block Design with three replications during rabi 2021-2022 to assess the extent of variability present among genotypes and strains of Indian mustard. The data were recorded for fourteen quantitative characters. In F1 generation estimates of heritability in broad sense were observed high for 1000-seed weight (95.27%) followed by number of primary branches per plant while in F2, observed high for test weight (95.66%) followed by number of primary branches/plant (93.66%). High estimates for genetic advance were recorded for 1000-seed weight and number of primary branches per plant (23.02 and 28.15% in F1 and F2) respectively. High heritability and high genetic advance were observed for 1000-seed weight and number of primary branches per plant in both generations. This showed the preponderance of additive gene action in the inheritance of test weight hence, selection would be rewarding. ','Indian mustard, Brassica juncea, heritability, variability, genetic advance, GCV, PCV','High heritability and high genetic advance were observed for 1000-seed weight and number of primary branches per plant in both generations. It was mainly due to additive gene effects and selection would be effective for these traits. The trait 1000-seed weight also showed the high GCV along with PCV indicates the additive gene action so selection of genotypes would be rewarding for the aforesaid trait.','INTRODUCTION\r\nBrassica juncea (L.) Czern & Coss (AABB) is the second most important edible oilseed crop in India after the soybean (Saroj et al., 2021). Cytological studies have revealed that B. juncea is a natural allotetraploid or amphidiploid (2n=36), of two diploid species viz., Brassica rapa (also known as Brassica campestris) (AA) (2n=20) and Brassica nigra (BB) followed by natural chromosome doubling (2n=16) (Tomar et al., 2017; Tarkeshwar et al., 2022a). The species has probably evolved in the Middle East, where its putative diploid progenitors are sympatric (Prakash and Hinata 1980; Singh et al., 2022).\r\nIndia is the second-largest rapeseed–mustard-cultivating country in the world after China and third in production after China and Canada (Kumari et al., 2019). During 2018–2019, rapeseed–mustard was cultivated over an area of 5.96 million hectares with production and productivity of 8.32 million tons and 1,397 Kg/ha, respectively in India (Directorate of Economics & Statistics, and Dac & Fw., 2019).\r\nThe existence of genetic variability in any plant population or genetic stock is the pre-requisite for any crop improvement programme. Available genetic stocks with effective variability are the store house of desirable genes for various traits. Hence, before planning a breeding programme, knowledge of important genes and extent of variability present among genotypes is utmost criteria. Thus, the present investigation has been conducted to estimate the extent of variability and heritability for various traits in Indian mustard.\r\nMATERIALS AND METHODS\r\nExperimental Details. The experiment was carried out at the Research Farm, Institute of Agriculture Science, Bundelkhand University, Jhansi (U.P.). The basic material in the present investigation comprised ten varieties/strains of Indian mustard namely, Urvashi, Azad Mahak, R.H.30, Pusa Mustard-25, Kranti, Pusa Mahak-7, NDR-8501, Bio-902, CS-52 and NRCDR-2 were taken from the germplasm maintained at Oilseed Section, Department of Genetics and Plant Breeding, Chandra Shekhar Azad University of Agriculture and Technology, Kanpur (U.P.). Ten genetically diverse genotypes of Indian mustard were subjected to diallel fashion mating design (excluding reciprocals) was attempted during rabi 2019–2020. The F1 seeds of 45 crosses were advanced during the Rabi season of 2020-2021 to raise the F1\'s and were selfed in order to obtain F2\'s seeds. The parents were also maintained through selfing. The experimental material comprising 100 treatments viz., (10 parents + 45 F1\'s + 45 F2\'s) were evaluated in RBD with three replications during rabi 2021-2022. Each parent, F1\'s and F1\'s planted in one row of 5m long 45cm apart; plant to plant distance was maintained 15cm by thinning. All the recommended packages of practices were adopted for raising a good crop. \r\nObservations Recorded. Five competitive plants in parents, F1\'s as well as F2’s were taken randomly for each treatment in each replication and tagged for recording fourteen quantitative traits viz., days to 50% flowering, days to maturity, leaf area index (cm2), plant height (cm), number of primary branches per plant, number of secondary branches per plant, length of main raceme (cm), number of siliquae on main raceme, number of seeds per siliqua, biological yield per plant (g), harvest index (%), 1000-seed weight (g), oil content (%) and seed yield per plant (g).\r\nStatistical Analyses. Theaverage from the five competitive plants was calculated and data were then subjected to estimate the various statistical analyses as Analysis of variance (ANOVA) for R.B.D. (Panse and Shukhatme 1988), Heritability in broad sense (Hanson, 1963) and Genetic advance and genetic advance in percent of mean (Johnson et al., 1955), genotypic coefficient of variation (GCV) and phenotypic coefficient of variation (PCV) (Burton, 1952) respectively.\r\nRESULTS AND DISCUSSION\r\nAnalysis of Variance. The combined analysis of variance (ANOVA) for parents and their forty-five each F1\'s and F2\'s for all the above fourteen characters’ mean sum of squares are presented in Table 1. Significant differences were observed among the treatments (parents, F1\'s and F2\'s) for all the fourteen attributes under investigation. ANOVA for parents and hybrids showed significant differences among all the traits studied except length of main raceme in F1 and plant height and oil content in F2. Similar observations were also reported by Mahendra et al. (2020).\r\nMean performance of Parents, F1\'s and F2\'s. The mean values for all the fourteen characters for parents, F1\'s and F2\'s, and variability expressed in terms of mean and ranges are presented in Table 2. The variation amongst the parents, F1\'s and F2\'s was found highly significant for all the fourteen attributes. However, the magnitude varied from character to character. \r\nIn comparison with parents and F1, the variation in parents was ranged from 51.00 to 56.00 days for days to 50% flowering with mean of 53.40 days, 124.67 to 132.67 days with mean value of 128.47 days for days to maturity, 172.97 to 204.41 cm with mean of 187.93 cm for plant height, 72.42 to 91.04 cm with mean of 80.60 cm for length of main raceme, 1.52 to 2.02 with mean of 1.80 for leaf area index, 5.76 to 8.29 with mean 6.89 for number of primary branches/ plant, 16.26 to 21.27 with mean of 18.92 for number of secondary branches/plant, 264.74 to 375.24 with mean of 333.96 for number of siliquae/plant, 13.46 to 16.45 with mean of 15.10 for number of seeds/siliqua, 3.16 to 4.94 with mean of 4.30 g for 1000-seed weight, 52.07 to 60.57 g with mean of 57.03 g for biological yield/plant, 25.46 to 29.19 with mean of 27.39 per cent for harvest index, 37.05 to 41.56 with mean of 39.62 per cent for oil content and 13.40 to 17.45g with mean of 15.62 g for seed yield/plant.\r\nAmong the F1\'s, the range lies between 46.67 to 54.33 with mean of 50.82 days for days to 50% flowering, 117.33 to 130.67 with mean of 124.98 days for days to maturity, 162.65 to 200.71 with the mean of 183.12 cm for plant height, 73.83 to 87.34 with mean of 80.32 cm for length of main raceme, 1.64 to 2.13 with mean of 1.90 for leaf area index, 6.10 to 9.08 with mean of 7.35 for number of primary branches/plant, 17.64 to 22.92 with mean of 20.01 for number of secondary branches/plant, 288.38 to 392.98 with the mean of 349.85 for number of siliquae/plant, 14.36 to 17.54 with 15.92 for number of seeds/siliqua, 3.38 to 6.04 g with the mean of 4.68 for 1000-seed weight, 55.67 to 67.64 g with mean of 60.82 g for biological yield/plant, 24.18 to 33.44 with mean of 28.32 per cent for harvest index, 37.45 to 44.12 with mean of 40.47 per cent for oil content and 14.48 to 20.48 g with the mean of 17.21 g for seed yield/plant. \r\nIn comparison with parents and F2, the variation in parents ranged from 52.67 to 57.67 days for days to 50% flowering with mean of 54.93 days, 126.33 to 134.33 days with mean value of 130.13 days for days to maturity, 168.00 to 199.44 cm with mean of 182.96 cm for plant height, 67.20 to 82.19 cm with mean of 74.56 cm for length of main raceme, 1.35 to 1.84 with mean of 1.865 for leaf area index, 4.60 to 7.12 with mean 5.72 for number of primary branches/ plant, 13.57 to 18.88 with mean of 16.23 for number of secondary branches/plant, 245.33 to 362.24 with mean of 312.12 for number of siliquae/plant, 12.51 to 15.17 with mean of 13.79 for number of seeds/siliqua, 3.05 to 4.86 with mean of 4.33 g for 1000-seed weight, 50.72 to 57.59 g with mean of 54.70 g for biological yield/plant, 23.86 to 28.15 with mean of 26.61 per cent for harvest index, 36.60 to 40.81 with mean of 39.27 per cent for oil content and 12.56 to 16.14g with mean of 14.56 g for seed yield/plant.\r\nAmong the F1\'s, the range lies between 45.00 to 53.67 with mean of 49.53 days for days to 50% flowering, 116.00 to 127.33 with mean of 122.39 days for days to maturity, 159.32 to 195.87 with the mean of 178.66 cm for plant height, 73.20 to 90.85 with mean of 80.41 cm for length of main raceme, 1.62 to 2.19 with mean of 1.94 for leaf area index, 6.09 to 9.22 with mean of 7.42 for number of primary branches/plant, 17.96 to 23.38 with mean of 20.27 for number of secondary branches/plant, 292.14 to 401.75 with the mean of 355.53 for number of siliquae/plant, 14.13 to 17.86 with 15.99 for number of seeds/siliqua, 3.47 to 6.13 g with the mean of 4.73 for 1000-seed weight, 55.95 to 68.68 g with mean of 61.62 g for biological yield/plant, 23.56 to 33.09 with mean of 28.26 per cent for harvest index, 37.46 to 44.69 with mean of 40.62 per cent for oil content and 14.66 to 20.73 g with the mean of 17.41 g for seed yield/plant. When all the three populations i.e., parents, F1\'s and F2\'s were considered simultaneously, the extent of variability differed from parents’ vis-a-vis F1 hybrids and parents’ vis-a-vis F2 progenies. Similarly, F1 hybrids expressed greater variability in eleven attributes out of fifteen in comparison of the F2 progenies in their investigation had also reported the almost similar results for most of these traits for parents and their F1’s. \r\nHeritability and Genetic advance. The estimates of heritability (broad sense) and genetic advance in per cent over mean of the trait for all the 14 characters in F1 and F2 generations were determined. The findings on these parameters are given in Table 2. \r\n \r\nThe estimates of heritability in broad in sense varied from 54.15% (oil content) to 95.27% (1000-seed weight) in F1 and 35.15% (days to maturity) to 95.66% (1000-seed weight) in F2 generation, respectively. \r\nIn F1 generation estimates of heritability in broad sense were observed high for 1000-seed weight (95.27%) followed by number of primary branches per plant (89.77%), length of main raceme (88.01 %), biological yield/plant (86.51%), plant height (85.1%), number of siliquae/plant (84.05%), seed yield/plant (83.11%), leaf area index (80.66%), days to 50% flowering (79.30%), number of secondary branches/plant (78.93%) and harvest index (76.58%). Moderate values of heritability were observed for days to maturity (57.14%) and oil content (54.15%). \r\nIn F2 generation estimates of heritability in broad sense were observed high for test weight (95.66%) followed by number of primary branches/plant (93.66%), number of siliquae/plant (88.29%), seed yield/plant (86.83%), number of secondary branches/plant (85.66%), leaf area index (84.36%), length of main raceme (82.35%), days to 50% flowering (79.75%), and biological yield/plant (79.09%). While, moderate values of heritability were observed for oil content (54.84%) and low values for days to maturity (35.15%). \r\nThe estimates of genetic advance in per cent over mean was calculated for all 14 characters. The arbitrary scale for genetic advance suggested that if estimated value of genetic advance if, less than 10%, it is low, if it is ranged between 10 to 20 per cent, it is medium and above 20%, it is high. \r\nThe estimates of genetic advance in per cent over mean of the character ranged from 3.92% (days to maturity) to 35.05% (1000-seed weight) in F1\'s and 2.28% (days to maturity) to 35.33% (1000-seed weight) in F2 generation. High estimates for genetic advance were recorded for 1000-seed weight and number of primary branches per plant (23.02 and 28.15% in F1 and F2) respectively. Moderate genetic gain was observed for number of leaf area index (14.54 and 15.83%), number of secondary branches per plant (14.07 and 17.23%), number of siliquae/plant (16.52 and 18.28%), harvest index (13.01 and 13.02%) and seed yield per plant (16.74 and 17.85%) in both F1 and F2 generations, and plant height (10.39%) in F1 generation only. Rest of the traits in both the generations exhibited low estimates of genetic advance in percent of mean. Similar findings were reported by Rout et al. (2019); Gadi et al. (2020).\r\nGenotypic and Phenotypic coefficient of variation. The higher values of genotypic coefficient of variation (GCV) along with phenotypic coefficient (PCV) were recorded for 1000-seeds weight followed by number of primary branches per plant as presented in Table 2. \r\n','Rajendra Kumar, Ashok Kumar, Tarkeshwar and Dheerendra Kumar (2022). Studies on Genetic variability, Heritability and Genetic Advance for Seed Yield and its Components in Indian Mustard [Brassca juncea (L.) Czern & Coss.]. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 14(3): 707-710.'),(5350,'136','Effect and Sensitivity of Gamma Irradiation to Various Biometrical Traits of Cowpea (Vigna unguiculata (L.) Walp.)','Sumedha C. Prabhu*, Mothilal, A., Anantharaju, P., Rajan Babu, V., Jeyaprakash, P. and Vanniarajan C.','120 Effect and Sensitivity of Gamma Irradiation to Various Biometrical Traits of Cowpea (Vigna unguiculata (L.) Walp.) Sumedha C. Prabhu.pdf','',1,'The present study was conducted to assess the effect and sensitivity of gamma rays to different biometrical traits in two popular high yielding, genetically diverse grain type cowpea (Vigna unguiculata (L.) Walp.) varieties viz. Paiyur 1 and Goa cowpea 3. Cowpea is a highly self pollinated crop with limited variability. Inducing mutations can thus play an important role in creating variations within the crop and offer a better opportunity for developing new desirable traits. The two cowpea varieties selected for the study have not undergone mutation studies so far. Hence, an attempt was made to identify desirable mutants by gamma irradiating them. The two cowpea varieties were exposed to varying doses (9 doses) of gamma rays to study their effect on germination, plant survival, seedling length, vigour index, pollen fertility and various quantitative traits like days to 50 per cent flowering, days to maturity, plant height, number of primary branches per plant, number of pod clusters per plant, number of pods per cluster, number of seeds per pod, pod length, hundred seed weight and seed yield per plant. LD50 was calculated for each of the two varieties on the basis probit analysis and the optimum dose were obtained as 200 Gy for Paiyur 1 and 400 Gy for Goa cowpea 3. A dose dependant decrease was noticed for most of the characters in M1 generation. The results indicated that the reduction in germination per cent, shoot length and root length over control was noticed in all mutagenic treatments in both the cultivars, while increased pollen sterility was associated with corresponding increases in dose of mutagens.','Cowpea, Gamma rays, in vitro studies and biometrical traits','Effect and susceptibility of the two cowpea varieties viz., Paiyur 1 and Goa cowpea 3 for gamma irradiation showed altered / modified phenotypes observed in the M1 generation of mutagen-treated plants. The genetic materials of the two cowpea varieties were severely harmed by the gamma irradiation. From the foregoing discussion, it was concluded that, all the quantitative characters showed a decreasing trend with increasing dose of the mutagen. They exhibited a negative and linear relationship with increasing mutagenic dose.','INTRODUCTION\r\nCowpea (Vigna unguiculata (L.) Walp.), often known as ‘black-eyed pea’, is a significant food legume crop that is widely grown throughout the world in Southern Europe, Africa, Central and South America, Asia, Oceania, and the United States (Quin, 1997). Cowpea is considered to be one of the most important food sources and offers nutritional security in the semi-arid regions of Sub-Saharan Africa due to its innate drought tolerance and capacity to flourish even in marginal lands. It is used as a vegetable, food, forage crop in the tropics (Steele and Mehra 1972). \r\nThe cowpea is also popularly known to be a ‘poor man’s meat’ owing to its presence of higher level of carbohydrate (57%), higher quantity of quality protein (21-33%) and rich in lysine and tryptophan content compared to other cereals. Also, it is a rich source of minerals (calcium, zinc and iron) and amino acids (ß-carotene, thiamine, riboflavin and folic acid). Cowpea leaves, serves as a green nutritious fodder for the milch animals due to the presence of higher protein content (27-34%). After the harvest of pods, the dried plant could be used as fodder for ruminant animals during the lean season and the in situ decomposition of cowpea roots in the soil enhances the nitrogen level to the tune of 40-80 kg N ha-1 by the symbiotic nitrogen fixation bacteria, Bradyrhizobium spp. (Quin, 1997).\r\nIn India, cowpea is cultivated in an area of 654 lakh hectares with a production of 599 lakh tonnes. The productivity of cowpea is 916 kg ha-1 (Joshi et al., 2018). The major cowpea growing states are Maharashtra, Karnataka, Tamil Nadu, Gujarat, Madhya Pradesh and Andhra Pradesh. In Tamil Nadu, cowpea is cultivated in an area of 65,836 hectares with a production of 50,145 tonnes (2019-20) (https://aps.dac.gov.in/APY/Public_Report1.aspx). The productivity of cowpea is 760 kg/ha which is much below the national average. The poor productivity of cowpea is due to its cultivation in the infertile soils under rainfed conditions, propensity towards natural vagaries of monsoon and pathogenic organisms, asynchronous pod maturity, shedding of newly formed pod causes poor sink realisation, inherent nature of indeterminate growth habit and long duration of the crop.\r\nThe strategies for improving the cowpea productions are (i) to enhance the productivity level and bridging the yield gap and (ii) development of high yielding short duration varieties having multiple resistance to accommodate 2-3 crops in a year. Such early maturity varieties can be accommodated well under intercropping situations with sugarcane. \r\nQuantum of genetic variability present in a population is a prime requisite for any crop improvement programme, which ultimately results in the development of high yielding varieties. The availability of natural variability in the gene pool of Vigna unguiculata (L.) Walp. is not sufficient to evolve high yielding cultivars. Hence, it is essential to create genetic variability through specialised techniques like induced mutation by employing physical or chemical mutagens. Many high yielding varieties in castor (Ankinudu et al., 1968), wheat (Swaminathan, 1969), sesame (Sharma, 1993), cowpea (Dhanavel et al., 2008), black gram (Thilagavathi and Mullainathan 2009) and soybean (Pavadai et al., 2010) were developed by mutation breeding approach. \r\nBoth physical and chemical mutagens are extensively used for the creation of genetic variability. However, in the present study, physical mutagen like gamma rays is employed to create genetic variability in cowpea. Gamma rays can induce multiple types of DNA damage, ranging from nucleotide modifications to DNA strand breaks (e.g., oxidized base, a basic sites, single-strand breaks (SSBs), double-strand breaks (DSBs)). If this DNA damage fails to be repaired or is repaired imprecisely, mutations such as single-base substitutions (SBSs), deletions, insertions, inversions, or translocations may occur at the genome scale and finally lead to changes in the phenotypic traits. \r\nThe aim of the present study is to assess the effect and sensitivity of gamma rays on germination, shoot length, root length, seedling height, vigour index, plant survival, pollen fertility and other quantitative traits in M1 generation.\r\nMATERIALS AND METHODS\r\nMaterial of this consists of two popular high yielding grain type cowpea varieties viz. Paiyur 1 and Goa cowpea 3. Pure seeds were obtained from Regional Research Station, Paiyur, Tamil Nadu, India and ICAR-Central Coastal Agricultural Research Institute Goa, India respectively. \r\nTwo hundred healthy seeds of Paiyur 1 and Goa cowpea 3 were selected and exposed to nine doses of gamma rays viz., 100 Gy, 150 Gy, 200 Gy, 250 Gy, 300 Gy, 350 Gy, 400 Gy, 450 Gy, 500 Gy of gamma rays at Indira Gandhi Centre for Atomic Research, Kalpakkam, Tamil Nadu. Non-irradiated seeds of these two varieties were considered as control. Hundred seeds in each variety and dosage have been reserved for conducting in vitro studies and the remaining seeds were utilised for raising the M1 generation.\r\nThe in vitro study was conducted with two replications in the Laboratory of Department of Plant Breeding and Genetics, Anbil Dharmalingam Agricultural College and Research Institute, Tiruchirappalli. The gamma ray treated seeds were transferred to moist filter paper for germination studies at the rate of 50 seeds per replication. For comparison, untreated seeds were soaked in normal water for 6 hours and directly placed in the moist filter paper to serve as a control. The treated and untreated seeds were observed on 7th day after sowing for assessing the germination percentage. Shoot length, root length, seedling height were recorded 14 days after sowing. Vigour index is calculated based on the formula suggested by Abdul-Baki and Anderson (1973). The dose of mutagen at which 50 per cent mortality is observed were considered as LD50 value for the variety / genotype. The LD50 value was calculated based on probit analysis.\r\nThe M1 generation of selective doses was raised during late Rabi 2021 season in the experimental field of Department of Plant Breeding and Genetics, Anbil Dharmalingam Agricultural College and Research Institute, Tiruchirappalli. Both treated and untreated seeds were sown in a RBD with two replications. The experimental plots size was 3.3 × 2.5 m2. The rows were spaced 30 cm apart with an inter plant distance of 15 cm. \r\nIn vitro and field observations recorded. For each dose of mutagen, the mean values for germination percentage, survival percentage, shoot length, root length, seedling height and vigour index were recorded under in vitro conditions in the laboratory; whereas, observations viz., plant height at 30 days after sowing, plant height at maturity, days to 50% flowering, days to maturity, number of primary branches per plant, number of pod clusters per plant, number of pods per cluster, pod length, number of seeds per pod, hundred seed weight and seed yield per plant were recorded from all the M1 plants in selected doses and control varieties from each replication. \r\nPollen fertility was also determined by staining the pollens with 1 per cent Iodine-Potassium Iodide stain. The fully stained pollen grains having proper shape were considered as fertile, while the unstained, abnormal shaped and improperly filled pollen grains were categorised as sterile. Pollen fertility per cent (%) was measured as the ratio of fertile to the total number of pollens observed in the microscopic field (10x). This observation was based on 10 randomly sampled flower buds. For this study, one bud was randomly sampled from each of the 10 randomly sampled plants of each plot of each dose.\r\nPollen fertility percentage = Total number of well stained pollen grains/Total number of well stained and unstained pollen grains × 100.\r\nStatistical analysis. The biometrical observations that were made at the relevant phases of the crop were subjected to first order statistical analysis.\r\nRESULTS AND DISCUSSION\r\nA. Effect of gamma irradiation on germination and survival percentage\r\nThe effect of mutagen on various traits observed viz. germination per cent and survival per cent are presented in Table 1 and 2. Both traits showed a linear, dose-dependent negative relationship as the mutagen\'s dose was increased. The values of the traits showed decreasing trend with the increase in the dose of mutagen. Mohammad et al. (2018) reported that disturbances caused by the mutagen at cellular and physiological levels interfere with the biological processes of the tissues and exhibited significant change in the phenotype. The seed germination percentage ranged from 8 (500 Gy) to 82 (100 Gy) per cent in Paiyur 1 and 25 (500 Gy) to 88(100 Gy) per cent in Goa cowpea 3. The Paiyur 1 control exhibited maximum germination of 95.0 per cent; whereas Goa cowpea 3 registered 93 per cent (Fig. 1 and 2). \r\nIn terms of percentage reduction over the control, the range was from 13.68(100 Gy) to 91.57 (500 Gy) per cent in Paiyur 1 and from 5.37 (100 Gy) to 73.11(500 Gy) per cent in Goa cowpea 3. Similar results showing dose dependent decrease in germination were earlier reported by Ramya et al. (2014), Uma and Salimath (2001) and Akilan et al. (2020). Fifty per cent reduction in germination was observed around 200 Gy-250Gy in Paiyur 1 and 350 Gy - 400 Gy in Goa cowpea 3.\r\nThe survival rate also showed a similar decreasing trend in all mutagenic treatments compared to its respective control (Paiyur 1: 88% and Goa cowpea 3: 89 %) on 30th day. The survival percentage ranged from 5.68 (500 Gy) to 86.36 (100 Gy) per cent in Paiyur 1 and 23.59 (500 Gy) to 95.50 (100 Gy) per cent in Goa cowpea 3. The percent reduction of survived seedlings over the control also exhibited a reduction ranging from 13.63 (100 Gy) to 94.31 (500 Gy) per cent in Paiyur 1 and from 4.49 (100 Gy) to 76.40 (500 Gy) per cent in Goa cowpea 3. The inability of the mutagen treated cells to repair the damage done to them could be the cause of the reduction in survival percentage. These findings are similar with the previous reports of Ugorji et al. (2012), Dhanavel and Girija (2009) and Kumar V Ashok (2010).\r\nB. Effect of gamma irradiation on root length, shoot length, seedling height and vigour index \r\nThe effects of mutagen on shoot length, root length, seedling height and vigour index are presented in Table 3 and 4. \r\nThe length of the seedlings was recorded after 14 days. Mean seedlings length ranging from 8.65 (500 Gy) to 31.19 cm (100 Gy) in Paiyur 1 and from 16.96 (500 Gy) to 33.54 cm (100 Gy) in Goa cowpea 3 (Fig. 7, 8). In terms of percentage reduction in the seedling length, it ranged from 7.23 (100 Gy) to 74.27 per cent (500 Gy) in Paiyur 1 and from 7.12 (100 Gy) to 53.03 per cent (500 Gy) in Goa cowpea 3. The reduction in length was also observed in soybean (Pepol, 1989) due to irradiation.\r\nThe vigour index showed a maximum value of 25.57 (100 Gy) and minimum of 0.69 (500 Gy) in Paiyur 1. Percentage reduction of vigour index over the control revealed minimum reduction in 100 Gy and maximum reduction in 500 Gy. Highest and lowest vigour index was reported in 100 Gy (29.51) and 500 Gy (4.24) respectively in Goa cowpea 3. Percentage reduction of vigour index followed the similar trend as in Paiyur 1.\r\nC. Effect of gamma irradiation on pollen fertility\r\nThe mean pollen fertility in both mutant populations and the percentage drop with its respective control are presented in Table 5. The control varieties Paiyur 1 and Goa cowpea 3 exhibited maximum pollen fertility of 92.95 and 91.53 per cent respectively. A gradual reduction in pollen fertility with increased dose of the mutagen has been observed. Pollen fertility was found to be maximum with lesser dose of 100 Gy (88.09 per cent in Paiyur 1 and 88.38 per cent in Goa cowpea 3) and minimum with higher dose 500 Gy (29.65 per cent in Paiyur 1 and 37.80 per cent in Goa cowpea 3) in both the varieties. The reduction in pollen fertility in terms of percentage ranged from 5.23 (100 Gy) to 68.10 per cent (500 Gy) in Paiyur 1 and from 3.45 (100 Gy) to 58.70 per cent (500 Gy) in Goa cowpea 3. The increased pollen survival in lesser dose has been mainly attributed to chromosomal interchange, least chromosomal aberration and gene mutation. Ramya et al. (2014), Kumar et al. (2009) recorded reduction in pollen fertility in comparison to the control.\r\nD. Effect of gamma irradiation on other biometrical traits\r\nThe other biometrical traits viz. days to 50% flowering, days to maturity, plant height at maturity, number of primary branches per plant, number of pod clusters per plant, number of pods per cluster, pod length, hundred seed weight, seed yield per plant were recorded and the mean values were presented in Table 6 and 7. All the traits showed decrease in the mean values with increase in the dose of the mutagen in the M1 generation.\r\nThe variability of quantitative characters influencing yield was much greater in mutagenic progenies than in control (Prasad, 1976). These mutagens\' capacity to infiltrate living organisms\' cells and interact with DNA results in the general harmful effects linked to their mutagenic capabilities. Thus their effects are mainly due to the direct interactions between the mutagen and the DNA molecules (Mensah et al., 2007). \r\nMutagens have the potential to induce physiological functions, which often manifests growth retardation and unrestricted cell death in M1 generation (Mak et al., 1986). This is consistent with recent research, which showed that gamma rays had an inhibitory influence on yield performance.\r\nThe height was measured at 30 days and at maturity. There was a reduction in the height observed with increasing mutagenic dose. The control heights were found to be 20.4 cm (30 days old seedling) and 72.5 cm (at maturity) for Paiyur 1. While for Goa cowpea 3 it was found to be 16.5cm (30 days old seedling) and 32.5 (at Maturity). Thereafter, heights of the plants reduced in both the cultivars. \r\nThe number of days to 50% flowering showed a declining trend in the selective doses over the control in both the varieties. Fifty per cent flowering was attained in 55 days in Paiyur 1 and 68 days in Goa cowpea 3 variety. All the investigated mutagenic treatments noticed lower mean plant heights than the control. The control Paiyur 1 and Goa cowpea 3 recorded mean plant height of 72.5 cm and 32.5 cm respectively. Also, number of primary branches per plant showed gradual reduction as compared to the control (Paiyur 1: 7.68 and Goa cowpea 3: 5.4). Similar results of reduction in the number of primary branches per plant in sesame in M1 generation were reported by Prabhakar (1985). \r\nNumber of pod clusters per plant showed decreasing values with increase in the mutagenic dose as compared to control (Paiyur 1: 19.34 and Goa cowpea 3: 4.89). Number of pods per cluster showed a declining trend and ranging from 3.5 (150Gy) to 2 (250Gy) as compared to the two control varieties viz., Paiyur 1 (4) and Goa cowpea 3 (3). Reduced pod count could be caused likely by the toxicity of the mutagen, inhibiting action of enzymes, and changes in enzyme activity. Pod length also showed a slight decline in the mean values varied from 14.18 cm (150Gy) to 12.11 cm (250Gy) in comparison with control (15.83 cm) in Paiyur 1 and from 18.5cm (350Gy) to 16 cm (450 Gy) compared to control (23.77cm) in Goa cowpea 3.\r\nNumber of seeds per pod did not show much variation in the three doses of Paiyur 1 variety as compared to control. The mean number of seeds per pod was 13 in all the studied doses. In Goa cowpea 3 variety, control had registered an average of 19 seeds per pod whereas, 350 Gy showed a mean of 10 seeds per pod and 400 Gy showed an average of 9 seeds per pod. Hundred seed weight also showed a similar kind of reduction over the control in both the varieties.\r\nIn all mutagenic treatments, the seed yield per plant showed a dose-dependent, negative, and linear relationship with the increased dose of mutagen. The reduction in this trait may also be attributed to the increase in seed sterility at higher doses of the treatment.\r\nSimilar results were observed in different crops by several mutagens. Banu et al. (2005) observed reduced seed yield per plant in combined treatments with gamma rays and EMS in Solanum melongena L. \r\n \r\n\r\nAll the morphological characters of M1 generation showed a decline with increasing dose of the mutagenic treatment compared to control. The quantitative characters gradually increased with increasing dose of the mutagen. The maximum reduction of quantitative characters was observed at 250 Gy in Paiyur1 and at 450 Gy in Goa cowpea 3. \r\nThe limited morphological differences may result from physiological and other genetic disruptions such as chromosomal damage, altered coiling, failure, or restricted pairing of chromosomes. Such results were earlier reported in linseed (Rai, 1978), green gram (Koteswara Rao et al., 1983), cowpea (Odeigah et al.,1998) and niger (Naik and Murthy, 2009) crops.\r\n','Sumedha C. Prabhu, Mothilal, A., Anantharaju, P., Rajan Babu, V., Jeyaprakash, P. and Vanniarajan C. (2022). Effect and Sensitivity of Gamma Irradiation to Various Biometrical Traits of Cowpea (Vigna unguiculata (L.) Walp.). Biological Forum – An International Journal, 14(3): 711-723.'),(5351,'136','Compatibility of Trichoderma species with Plant Growth Promoting Rhizobacteria (PGPR)','Pavitra*, Gangadhara Naik B., Meghana S.P., Ranjana Joshi and Nandish M.S.','121 Compatibility of Trichoderma species with Plant Growth Promoting Rhizobacteria (PGPR) Pavitra.pdf','',1,'Trichoderma are the biocontrol agents, plays an important role in integrated disease management as a key constituent. These fungi have been widely studied for their biocontrol activities viz., micoparasitism, antibiosis, competition for nutrient and space, niche exclusion, stress tolerance, induced resistance in plants as well as inactivation of the pathogens enzymes by producing various antimicrobial compounds. Along with Trichoderma other important beneficial microorganisms like plant growth promoting rhizobacteria’s also present in the soil ecosystem. Trichoderma spp. and PGPR’s are often predominant components of the mycoflora in soil, litter, organic matter and rhizospheric ecosystem of all climatic zones. Which are helps in plant growth and development. In order to know the interaction (positive or negative) between PGPR’s and Trichoderma spp. present investigation was carried out using four species of PGPR’s viz., Bacillus megaterium, Bacillus mucilagenosus, Azotobacter and Pseudomonas fluorescens and three species of Trichoderma viz., T. asperillum, T. virens, and T. aureoviridae using dual plate technique method. Among all the PGPR’s B. mucilagenosus, B. megaterium, showed 100% compatibility, whereas Azotobacter was moderately compatible and Pseudomonas fluorescens showed least compatibility. This shows both the biocontrol agents (except Pseudomonas fluorescens) can be applied to plants in combination will helps in enhancing the plant growth and development, protects plants from pest and disease also produces many antimicrobial enzymes which helps in plant defense mechanism.','Trichoderma, Plant Growth Promoting Rhizobacteria (PGPR), biocontrol activities, Compatibility','The species of Trichoderma tested were found to be compatible with the all four isolates of plant growth promoting rhizobacteria. However among the PGPR highest level of compatibility (100 %) was recorded with Bacillus megaterium, whereas Bacillus mucilagenosus and Azotobacter are moderately compatible and Pseudomonas fluorescence showed least compatible with all the species of Trichoderma. The results obtained could be utilized to develop a microbial formulation (microbial consortia) for the benefit of the forming community.','INTRODUCTION\r\nNow a days due to biotic and abiotic stresses leads to severe yield reduction. Biotic constraints includes like fungi, bacteria, virus, nematodes, weeds and insects which causes yield loss up to 31 to 42 per cent (Agrios, 2005). To manage these, farmers also using exhaustive amount of pesticide increases year by year. These results in environment pollution as well as negative effect on non target organisms. Continuous and tremendous uses of chemical pesticides create high selection pressure on pathogens and force them to undergo mutation and develop pesticide resistance races. \r\nOne of the important biocontrol agent is Trichoderma, possessing reasonable biological control attributes belonging to species T. harzianum, T. ressey, T. asperellum, T. viridae, T. virens, T. aureoviridae, T. konigii etc. These fungi have been widely studied for their biocontrol activities viz., micoparasitism, antibiosis, competition for nutrient and space, niche exclusion, stress tolerance, induced resistance in plants as well as inactivation of the pathogen’s enzymes by producing various antimicrobial compounds. The most commonly used microbial biopesticides are living organisms, which are parasites for the pest of interest. These include biofungicides, bioherbicides, and bioinsecticides (Gupta and Dikshit 2010).\r\nBio-control agents, manage pathogens either by producing many toxic metabolites specific to the pest, preventing establishment of other microorganisms through their modes of action. Application of certain compatible plant growth-promoting rhizobacteria (PGPR) with Trichoderma also increases phenlyalanine ammonia lyase (PAL) and peroxidase (PO) activities upto 50 and 25 per cent respectively (Sarma et al., 2015; Singh et al., 2015). PGPR’s are considered as one of the best strategies; a better alternative for sustainable agriculture, and a viable solution to meet the challenges of plant disease management, global food security and environmental stability. Use of PGPR’s due to its sustainable and environmentally friendly mechanisms of plant growth promotion, is becoming more widespread in the agricultural industry. PGPR’s helps in nutrient fixation, phosphorous solubalizaton, potassium solubaliztion, siderophore production, zinc solubilization and production of phytohormones. PGPR’s such as Bacillus, Pseudomonas, Arthrobacter, and Azospirillum are major genuses and have many species (Shah et al., 2021).\r\nIn this study PGPR’s (Plant Growth Promoting Rhizobacteria) like Pseudomonas fluorescens, Bacillus megaterium, Azotobacter and Bacillus mucilagenosus were used. Besides the classic mycorrhizal fungi and PGPR’s, other plant-growth-promoting fungi such as Trichoderma spp. (Teleomorph: Hypocrea) can protected from numerous pathogens by responses that are similar to systemic acquired resistance (SAR) and rhizobacteria induced systemic resistance (Wees et al., 2015). So both PGPR’s and Trichoderma spp. frequently enhances root growth and development, crop productivity, uptake and use of nutrients and resistance to biotic and abiotic stress. Keeping in this view, investigation was undertaken to study the “Compatibility of Trichoderma spp. with plant growth promoting rhizobacteria”. \r\nMATERIALS AND METHODS\r\nTrichoderma spp. and PGPR’s. In this study, to check the compatibility between Trichoderma spp. and PGPR’s different Trichoderma spp. were used. Those are, Trichoderma asperillum, Trichoderma virens and Trichoderma aureoviridae and PGPR’s (Plant Growth Promoting Rhizobacteria) like Pseudomonas fluorescens, Bacillus megaterium, Azotobacter and Bacillus mucilagenosus. Compatibility test was carried out with the help of dual culture technique.\r\nDual culture technique. Twenty ml of sterilized and cooled potato dextrose agar was poured into sterile Petri plates under aseptic condition and allowed to solidify. For evaluation of compatibility of Trichoderma with PGPR (Morton and Strouble 1955), the suspension of PGPR will be streaked one day earlier at one end of the of the Petri plate and the Trichoderma spp. of mycelial discs (5 mm) was placed at another end of the petriplate by leaving 2mm periphery of petriplate. In control only Trichoderma disc was placed. The plates were incubated at 27±1°C and zone of inhibition was recorded by measuring the clear zone between the margins of the organisms. The colony diameter in control plate was also recorded. \r\nThe per cent inhibition of growth of the Trichoderma spp. with the PGPR’s was calculated by using the formula as suggested by Vincent (1947).\r\nI= (C-T)/C ×100\r\nWhere,\r\nI = Per cent inhibition\r\nC = Growth in control plate\r\nT = Growth in treatment plate\r\nRESULT AND DISCUSSION\r\nThe study was aimed to identify the compatibility of Trichoderma spp. with different PGPR’s. In vitro study revealed that, among different PGPRs Bacillus mucilagenosus was found to be the best organism which showed compatibility with all the three Trichoderma species, Trichoderma asperillum, Trichoderma virens and Trichoderma aureoviridae i.e., with 100 per cent compatibility followed by Bacillus megaterium which exhibited the 100 per cent compatible with T. asperillum and T. aureoviridae whereas 98.45 per cent compatible with T. virens Whereas Azotobacter was 96.30 per cent compatibility with T. aureoviridae, followed by, Trichoderma asperillum and Trichoderma virens at 95.56 and 91.49 per cent, respectively. Also Pseudomonas fluorescens was found to be compatible with T. aureoviridae, T. asperillum and T. virens about 95.60, 75.93 and 80.38 per cent, respectively.\r\nAll the three isolates of Trichoderma are showed about 80 to 100 percent compatability with Bacillus mucilagenosus followed by Bacillus megaterium, Pseudomonas fluorescens and Azotobacter. Due to different mode of action to inhibit the plant pathogens of Trichoderma and PGPRs. They are mutual in nature hence they are compatible with each other. Little bit inhibition due to siderophores and enzymes produced by PGPRs will hinder the growth of Trichoderma spp. They are equally antagonistic with each other individually (Table 1 and Fig. 1). The result was contradict with the results of (Lorito et al., 1993; Sridhar et al., 1993; Jayarajan and Ramabadran, 1999; Montealegre et al., 2003; Rudresh et al., 2005; Niranjan et al., 2009; Sandheep et al., 2013; Akthar and Tanweer 2014; Tanushree et al., 2017; Majumder et al., 2019) showed that PGPR’s and Trichoderma mixture were statistically at on par to manage plant diseases also increase in growth and development of the plants.\r\n','Pavitra, Gangadhara Naik B., Meghana S.P., Ranjana Joshi and Nandish M.S. (2022). Compatibility of Trichoderma species with Plant Growth Promoting Rhizobacteria (PGPR). Biological Forum – An International Journal, 14(3): 724-727.'),(5352,'136','Monitoring of Pink Bollworm, Pectinophora gossypiella (Saund.) throughout the Cropping Season by Gossyplure','Lalsingh Rathod*, A.V. Kolhe, D.B. Undirwade, A.K. Sadawarte, S.K. Bhalkare and P.K. Rathod','122 Monitoring of Pink Bollworm, Pectinophora gossypiella (Saund.) throughout the Cropping Season by Gossyplure Lalsingh Rathod.pdf','',1,'Pink bollworm is the most serious and destructive cotton pest, causing locule damage to the tune of 55% and a reduction in seed cotton yield ranging from 35% to 90%. (Narayanan, 1962). This pest must be monitored on a regular basis in order to gain insight into seasonal population fluctuations and achieve effective control. Pesticides are widely used as a major weapon in the fight against this pest damage. In India, total insecticides used to control bollworms alone were 9410 MT in 2003-04, valued at 747.6 crores (Kranthi, 2012). Despite consuming such a high percentage of pesticides, pink bollworm pressure could not be controlled and instead worsened the situation by becoming resistant to both Bt toxins and major insecticides. It is now necessary to switch from conventional management methods to cutting-edge, economical, and environmentally friendly pheromone-based techniques to combat PBW in Bt cotton. Considering all those things in view an experiment was undertaken at the cotton research unit, Dr. Panjabrao Deshmukh Krishi Vidyapeeth, Akola, (Maharashtra) for two years (2019-20 and 2020-21). During the year 2019-20 a sudden increase in the number of moth trap catches was witnessed during December’s second fortnight (corresponding to 52nd SMW / first cotton picking) i.e. 341 moth/ trap/ fortnight and continued at a high level till the end of February’s first fortnight (corresponding to 7th SMW/second and third cotton picking). Thereafter the moth trap catches showed a gradual decrease in number in subsequent months. Similarly, the pink bollworm moth trap catches recorded during the second (2020-21) year were found marginally greater than in the first year and began earlier. The number of PBW moth trap catches increased gradually reaching its peak during the December’s first fortnight (corresponding to 50th SMW/peak boll bursting) i.e. 376.4 moth/ trap/ fortnight and thereafter gradually declined.','Pink bollworm, Pectinophora gossypiella, gossyplure, monitoring, pheromone trap','While monitoring pink bollworm moth catches during both the year, the PBW moth trap catches registered from June 1st fortnight (corresponding to crop sowing), thereafter its population increased gradually and reached its peak during December – January (corresponding to peak boll bursting and cotton picking) and then after declined.','INTRODUCTION\r\nThe pink bollworm Pectinophora gossypiella (Saunders) (Lepidoptera: Gelechiidae) is one of the most important cotton pests, causing maximum seed cotton loss in quantity and quality throughout the world\'s cotton-growing areas (Pearson, 1958). PBW is emerging as a serious pest, and its activity is observed for a brief period beginning in January and ending in April. In recent years, the pest has been frequently observed during early flowering. The PBW larvae enter the fruiting body shortly after emergence. As a result, farmers are completely unaware of the damage caused by PBW until the boll opens, and thus cannot employ any pest-specific control measures.\r\nSince the damage and stages of pink bollworm are not visible – therefore it is necessary to monitor pink bollworm infestation on the crop, during the cropping season. This can be done easily through the use of gossyplure pheromone baited traps that attract the males. Sex pheromone gossyplure is an effective attractant for male moths of pink bollworm and can be used successfully for mass trapping, monitoring seasonal emergence, to work out the peak periods of bollworms and their correlation with weather parameters. This will facilitate the proper timing of insecticidal spray and other control measures for the management of bollworms. Results in a substantial reduction in the number of pesticide applications required for the control of bollworms during the cotton growing season. Pheromone traps are frequently used at low densities for monitoring purposes, and it is well known that trapping doesn\'t significantly reduce a pest\'s population or the severity of its damage. These two features set the idea of mass trapping with pheromone compounds apart. The key elements of mass trapping are placing a high density of traps in the crop that needs to be protected and achieving some level of control by removing an adequate high proportion of individuals from the population. \r\nTo reduce the number of adults available for mating, control the population, and postpone the development of the next generation, mass trapping techniques are used in the field to capture males of newly emerged moths. For mass trapping of PBW, it is advised to install at least 20 traps per hectare and to reap the full benefits, it is best to do so two weeks prior to the first flowering, as this lowers the likelihood that first-generation larvae will establish themselves in the flowers. For a better outcome, pheromone septa must be changed on a regular basis and the traps must be kept in place until the last cotton is picked.\r\nMATERIALS AND METHOD\r\nFor Monitoring of pink bollworm, throughout the cropping season, “Pherosensor sleeve” traps baited with gossyplure were used. These rubber septa were impregnated with gossyplure (Cis-7, cis-11-Hexadecadien-1-yl acetate). At the experimental farm of Cotton research unit, Dr. PDKV Akola in one-acre area five such traps were installed at 1-2 feet height above the plant depending on the crop stage. The traps were rebaited at 30 days intervals to maintain them at full catching efficiency. The observation on PBW moth trap catches was recorded at fortnight intervals from June (corresponding to 23rd SMW / crop initiation) till March (corresponding to 11th SMW / crop uprooting) during both the years 2019-20 and 2020-21.\r\nRESULTS AND DISCUSSION \r\nDuring the year 2019-20, the PBW moth trap catches were recorded in the experimental form of cotton research unit revealed that the PBW moth trap catches started from the June third week (corresponding to 24th SMW / crop initiation) i.e. 5.4 moth/trap/fortnight. The build-up in the number of PBW moth trap catches was more or less steady till the October first fortnight (corresponding to 42nd SMW / green boll full maturity), thereafter there was a gradual increase in number of moth trap catches observed from October second fortnight to December first fortnight (corresponding to 44th to 50th SMW/ boll bursting). A sudden increase in the number of moth trap catches was witnessed during December’s second fortnight (corresponding to 52nd SMW / first cotton picking) i.e. 341.0 moth/trap/fortnight and continued at a high level till the end of February’s first fortnight (corresponding to 7th SMW / second and third cotton picking). Thereafter the moth trap catches showed a gradual decrease in number in subsequent months.\r\nThe data recorded during the year 2020-21 showed that PBW moth trap catches began from the June second week (corresponding to 23rd SMW/ crop initiation) i.e. 6.8 moth/trap/fortnight. The number of PBW moth trap catches increased gradually reaching its peak during the December first fortnight (corresponding to 50th SMW / peak boll bursting) i.e. 376.4 moth/ trap/ fortnight and thereafter PBW moth trap catches gradually declined. The pink bollworm moth trap catches recorded during the second year was found marginally greater than in the first year PBW moth trap catches.\r\nThe Pooled analysis of data (Table 1) did not deviate from the previous two year’s results and revealed that the PBW moth trap catches started from the June third week (corresponding to 24th SMW / crop initiation) i.e. 6.1 moth/trap/fortnight. The build-up in number of PBW moth trap catches was more or less steady till the October first fortnight (corresponding to 42nd SMW / green boll full maturity), thereafter there was a gradual increase in the number of moth trap catches observed from October second fortnight to December first fortnight (corresponding to 44th to 50th SMW/ boll bursting). A sudden increase in the number of moth trap catches was witnessed during December’s second fortnight (corresponding to 52nd SMW / first cotton picking) i.e. 352.5 moths/trap/ fortnight and continued at a high level till the end of February’s first fortnight (corresponding to 7th SMW / second and third cotton picking). Thereafter the moth trap catches showed a gradual decrease in number in subsequent months.\r\nThese results are in accordance with the findings of Sandhya Rani et al. (2010), who reported that the incidence of PBW moth trap catches began in September and remained relatively stable until the second week of November corresponding to the 45th SMW (8.2 moths/trap), after which there was a gradual increase in PBW moth trap catches from the third week of November corresponding to 46th SMW (26.44 moths/trap) to the second week of December corresponding to 49th SMW (44.52 moths/trap).\r\nSimilarly, Qureshi et al. (1984) discovered that the pink bollworm moth population remained active throughout the year, with a low population during the hot summer months of May to July in Pakistan\'s Sindh region. From May to September, the moth population was drastically reduced, and it began to increase again in October, reaching a peak in October. In both cotton growing seasons, there were two distinct moth population peaks: one in March/April and a larger one in October.\r\nMoreover, the present findings are also supported by work carried out by earlier workers like Dhawan and Sidhu (1984); Cividanes (1989); Gupta et al. (1990), Michel and Gomez (1992); Korta and Lingappa (1996); Naik et al. (1996); De Melo et al. (2012); Ramesh Babu and Meghwal (2014); Khuhro et al. (2015); Sharma et al. (2015).\r\n','Lalsingh Rathod, A.V. Kolhe, D.B. Undirwade, A.K. Sadawarte, S.K. Bhalkare and P.K. Rathod (2022). Monitoring of Pink Bollworm, Pectinophora gossypiella (Saund.) throughout the Cropping Season by Gossyplure. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 14(3): 728-731.'),(5353,'136','Genetic Variability and Inter-Relationships among Grain Physical Quality Traits in Mungbean (Vigna radiata L. Wilczek)','Jenifer Sylvia J., Murugan E., Muthuramu S., Renuka R. and Vellaikumar S.','123 Genetic Variability and Inter-Relationships among Grain Physical Quality Traits in Mungbean (Vigna radiata L. Wilczek) Jenifer Sylvia J.pdf','',1,'Hundred seed weight is one of the crucial quantitative traits which directly influences the yield. Seeds are classified based on their hundred seed weight as bold (> 5 g), medium bold (4–4.9 g) and small seeds (< 4 g). Bold seeded types are preferred by most of the consumers for making sundal, sprouts, snacks, etc., Limited information is only available on the mungbean grain quality traits. Thus, the present study was undertaken to estimate the genetic variability and association for fourteen grain quality traits in 20 mungbean genotypes. The hundred seed weight is an important grain quality trait that is influenced by other physical quality traits like dry seed volume, soaked seed volume, hydration capacity, swelling capacity, hydration index and swelling index, etc., According to the correlation studies from the twenty green gram genotypes, a highly significant and positive association was observed for hundred seed weight with dry seed weight followed by soaked seed volume, soaked seed weight, cooking time, dry seed volume, dry seed density and swelling capacity. Path analysis revealed that water absorption percentage recorded the highest direct effect followed by hydration capacity, dry seed weight and dry seed density. The traits like soaked seed weight (g), water absorption percentage (%), volume expansion percentage (%), hydration capacity, hydration index, swelling capacity and swelling index expressed high PCV, GCV, heritability and genetic advance as a percentage of the mean. Hence, these traits can be given importance during selection for improving quality aspects in green gram as they exhibit more genetic variability and responds well to selection.','Correlation, physical quality, sensory evaluation and mungbean','Superior genotypes were identified based on the performance of each trait and presented in Table 5. The genotype, VGG 18002 was identified as the superior genotype for hundred seed weight, dry seed weight, soaked seed weight, dry seed volume and soaked seed volume. Co 8 is a desirable variety for soaked seed density, water absorption percentage, hydration capacity and hydration index. The genotype, RM 20-13 expressed high mean values for volume expansion percentage and swelling index. The genotype, COGG 13-39 recorded the high swelling capacity and the genotype, Asha mung recorded the lowest cooking time. Hence, these genotypes can be utilized in the hybridization programme for grain quality improvement. The bold seeded genotypes generally require more cooking time compared to medium and small-seeded genotypes. Dry seed weight, soaked seed volume, soaked seed weight, cooking time, dry seed volume, dry seed density and swelling capacity were highly positively correlated with hundred seed weight. \r\nHowever, bold seeded types registered more volume expansion percentage (> 50%) than small seeded types excluding the genotype, RM 20-13. Moreover, the bold seeded types are soft and palatable compared to others, which may be suitable for snack and sundal purpose. Hence, based on the consumer preference, the small and medium seeded types can be recommended for sambar and dhal purpose and bold seeded types for snacks and sundal purposes.\r\n','INTRODUCTION \r\nIndia has obtained a ubiquitous position as a prime producer, leading consumer and exporter of pulses among the other countries. Pulses are an indispensable source of protein alongside low fat and high fiber content in most of the developing countries. On top of that, they are also a great source of vitamins and minerals namely, folate, vitamin-‘C’, iron, zinc and magnesium. Mungbean (Vigna radiata L. Wilczek) is the third most important pulse crop in the world which occupies an extensive portion of the vegetarian diet as an alternative to meat in all over the world. It is the best and cheapest source of daily dietary nutrition for human and animal consumption. Globally, mungbean occupies an area of about 7.3 million ha with a productivity of 731 Kg/ha. Of the total global mungbean production of 5.3 million tonnes, India and Myanmar each contribute 30% to the production (Nair and Schreinemachers 2020). Mungbean encompasses protein, fiber and ash in the range of 22.9–26.3%, 3.80–7.00% and 3.1–4% respectively (Enyiukwu et al., 2020; Kumar and Pandey 2020). It also contains various biochemical compounds (Hou et al., 2019) which have nephroprotective, hepato-protective, anti-inflammatory and anticancer properties (Gupta et al., 2018; Sudhakaran and Bukkan 2021).\r\nHaving a prior and foremost knowledge of the physicochemical properties of mungbeanhelp in transportation, storage, processing, seed quality assessment and marketing (Sastry et al., 2019). Hundred seed weight is one of the important quality traits in mungbean as most of the varieties used for sundal, sprouts and snacks purposes are bold seeded (> 5 g). It is influenced by various physicochemical properties of seeds alike hydration capacity, swelling capacity, water absorption capacity and volume expansion ratio. Hydration and cooking are two both different and interrelated processes. Hydration should occur before or during cooking so that seed softening and starch gelatinization occurs which are the two vital parameters of cooked grain (Honnappa et al., 2018). Cooking quality largely depends on hydration capacity and volume expansion ratio. It is also determined by starch, the internal structure of the seed, permeability and compactness of the seed coat.\r\nIn India, Mungbean breeding is mainly focused on yield improvement alongside the development of biotic and abiotic stress resistance and less consideration is given to quality aspects of mungbean. Limited information is only available on the physicochemical properties and cooking quality based on the breeding lines and mini core collections, etc., Henceforth, the present experimental study was undertaken to assess the genetic variability and association studies among the hundred seed weight and physiochemical traits in mungbean.\r\nMATERIALS AND METHODS\r\nPlant material. Twenty mungbean genotypes were raised in the research farm of the Department of Plant Breeding and Genetics, Agricultural College and Research Institute (AC&RI), Madurai in January 2022. A spacing of 30 × 10 cm was adopted. Recommended cultural and agronomic practices were undertaken at timely intervals. The harvested seeds were used for determining the physicochemical traits namely hundred seed weight (g), dry seed weight (g), soaked seed weight (g), dry seed volume (g/ml), soaked seed volume(g/ml), dry seed density, soaked seed density, hydration capacity, hydration index, water absorption percentage (%), volume expansion percentage (%), swelling capacity, swelling index and cooking time (min).\r\nPhysico-chemical properties. The methodology of Santhan and Shivshankar (1978) was used to determine the physical properties of seeds namely, hundred seed weight, dry seed weight, soaked seed weight, dry seed volume, soaked seed volume, dry seed density, soaked seed density, hydration capacity, hydration index, water absorption percentage, volume expansion percentage, swelling capacity and swelling index. Hundred seed weight was ascertained by weighing 100 seeds in triplicate of each genotype using an electronic weighing balance and their mean value was expressed in g. 50 seeds of each genotype are soaked in distilled water for overnight.\r\nA. Dry seed weight (DSW). The initial weight of fifty seeds was taken as dry seed weight(g).\r\nB. Soaked seed weight (SSW). The weight of overnight soaked fifty seeds was ascertained as soaked seed weight (g).\r\nC. Dry seed volume (DSV). The volume of seeds was determined by the volume displacement method. 50 seeds were dispersed in 50 ml water contained in a 100 ml measuring cylinder and the immediate displacement in the volume of water was taken as dry seed volume.\r\nD. Soaked seed volume (SSV). The volume of soaked seeds was measured by placing the soaked seeds in a 100 ml measuring cylinder containing 50 ml of water. The immediate displacement in the volume was taken as soaked seed volume.\r\n \r\nE. Dry seed density (DD). The density of seed was ascertained by dividing dry seed weight by dry seed volume.\r\nF. Soaked seed density (SD). The density of soaked seed was measured by the ratio of soaked seed weight to soaked seed volume.\r\n \r\nG. Water absorption percentage (WAP). The water absorption percentage was calculated by using the following formula,\r\n \r\nH. Volume expansion percentage (VEP). The volume expansion percentage was ascertained by using the following formula,\r\n \r\nI. Hydration capacity (HC). It is the weight gained by the seeds after being soaked in distilled water. It is calculated by the following formula,\r\n \r\nJ. Hydration index (HI). The hydration index is the ratio of hydration capacity to the weight of one seed.\r\n \r\nK. Swelling capacity (SC). It is measured as the difference between the volume displaced by seeds before and after soaking in water.\r\n \r\nL. Swelling index (SI). It is the ratio of swelling capacity to the volume of one seed.\r\n \r\nM. Cooking time (CT). 25 seeds were dispersed in 100 ml distilled water and boiled at 100°c. The seeds were cooked until they were soft when pressed between fingers for softness. The time required to cook each genotype was noted and expressed in minutes.\r\nSensory evaluation. The cooked mungbean seeds were subjected to sensory evaluation for the identification of superior genotypes for cooking quality. The twenty cooked mungbean genotypes were evaluated by a panel of seven untrained judges for sensory attributes like texture (softness), taste (palatability) and overall acceptability. The following nine-point hedonic scale was used to score the sensory attributes.\r\n9 - Like extremely\r\n8 - Like very much\r\n7 - Like moderately\r\n6 - Like slightly\r\n5 - Neither dislike nor like\r\n4 - Dislike slightly\r\n3 - Dislike moderately\r\n2 - Dislike very much\r\n1 - Dislike extremely\r\nStatistical analysis. The data for fourteen traits of twenty genotypes were analyzed for genetic variability like GCV(%), PCV(%), heritability (%) and genetic advance as per mean (%). Path coefficient analysis was performed using OPSTAT software (Sheoran et al., 1998) and the correlation matrix and correlogram was obtained using R- software (R Core Team, 2020).\r\nFormulae \r\na. PCV & GCV - The estimation of PCV and GCV are based on the methods of Burton (1952)\r\n \r\n \r\nLow : < 10 %\r\nModerate : 10 – 20%\r\nHigh : >20%\r\nThe classification of PCV and GCV was based on the suggestion of Sivasubramanian and Madhavamenon, 1973.\r\n \r\nb. Heritability – It plays a significant role in the process of selection in breeding as it is based on additive genetic variance. Broad sense heritability is calculated as the ratio of genotypic variance to phenotypic variance (Lush, 1940).\r\nAs suggested by Johnson et al. (1955), heritability values are classified as follows,\r\nLow : < 30 %\r\nModerate : 30 – 60%\r\nHigh : > 60%\r\n \r\nc. Genetic advance as a percentage of mean – genetic advance is the genetic gain due to selection. It is usually expressed as a percentage of the mean.\r\nThe genetic advance as a percentage of mean values are classified according to Johnson et al. (1955)\r\nLow : < 10 %\r\nModerate : 10 – 20%\r\nHigh : >20%\r\nd. Genotypic correlation (rg) – the equation of genotypic correlation is as follows,\r\n \r\ne. Path coefficient - The path coefficient analysis is done as suggested by Dewey and Lu (1959). It is used to assess the relative direct and indirect influence of the independent variable on the dependent variable.\r\nThe scale for categorizing direct and indirect effects was given by Lenka and Mishra (1973).\r\nNegligible : 0.00 – 0.09\r\nLow : 0.10 – 0.19\r\nModerate : 0.20 – 0.29\r\nHigh : 0.30 – 1.00\r\nVery high : > 1.00\r\nRESULTS AND DISCUSSION\r\nThe mean performances of twenty genotypes for each grain physical quality were enlisted in Table 1. The mean performance helps in the identification of superior genotypes for grain quality traits. The mean values of hundred seed weight ranged from 3 g (RM 20-16) to 5.4 g (VGG 18002) with an average of 4.37g. The weight of dry and soaked seeds varied from 1.61 (Co 8) to 3 g (VGG 18002) and 2 (RM 20-13) to 4.67 g (VGG 18002) with an average value of 2.36 g and 3.10 g respectively. The mean values of the traits, dry seed volume and soaked seed volume extends from 2.44 g/ml to 4.67g/ml and 3.56 g/ml to 7.78 g/ml respectively. The highest mean value for traits such as dry seed and soaked seed volume was noticed in the genotype VGG 18002. For dry seed density and soaked seed density, the mean value extended from 0.36 (CO 8) to 0.83 (DGG- V2) and 0.43 (RM 20-13) to 0.72 (Co 8) respectively. The traits like water absorption percentage, hydration capacity and hydration index were found to have the highest mean value in Co 8 while it recorded the lowest mean values for swelling capacity (0.01 ml/seed) and swelling index (0.08).Relatively identical outcomes were published by Ghosh and Panda (2006a) and Ghosh and Panda (2006b) in both black gram and greengram. The genotype VGG 16046 registered the lowest mean values of 5.88 %, 0.001 g/seed and0.06 for traits such as water absorption percentage, hydration capacity and hydration index, respectively. RM 20-13 showed the highest mean values for volume expansion percentage (90.91 %) and swelling index (0.91). The cooking time for twenty genotypes varied from 17 min to 25 min. The genotype, Asha mung had the least cooking time of 17 min as compared to the other genotypes. Based on the mean value (Table 1), it was clear that the bold seeded genotypes recorded the highest value for seed weight and volume both before and after cooking. Whereas for other traits excluding cooking time and hundred seed weight, the medium bold seeded genotypes exhibited high mean values. The superior genotypes identified for different grain quality trait based on their performances for each trait are enlisted in Table 5.\r\nVariability studies. Johnson et al. (1955) put forward that GCV along with heritability would give a clear-cut idea about the extent of advance to be expected from the selection. The magnitude of GCV was slightly lesser than the PCV for all the fourteen traits signifying that the influence of the environment on these traits was less or negligible (Table 2). It was clearly depicted in the Fig. 1. Comparable findings were reported by Singh (2016) and Srivastava et al. (2020) in chickpea and Neyaz and Bajpai (2002) in pigeon pea.The highest GCV and PCV were exhibited by the traits like water absorption percentage (74.10% and 74.18%) followed by hydration index (74.11% and 74.16%) while the highest heritability and genetic advance as a percentage of mean were observed in hydration index (99.85% and 92.55%) followed by hydration capacity. High heritability alongside high genetic advance as a percentage of mean was reported by all the traits except for soaked seed density and cooking time, implying that these traits are controlled by additive gene action and selection would be effective (Fig. 2). The traits viz., soaked seed weight, water absorption percentage, volume expansion percentage, hydration capacity, hydration index, swelling capacity and swelling index expressed high PCV, GCV, heritability and genetic advance as a percentage of the mean. Hence, priority may be given during selection for improving respective traits as they exhibit more genetic variability.\r\nCorrelation studies. Karl Pearson’s correlation coefficient was constructed for 14-grain quality traits to quantify the association between hundred seed weight and other physicochemical traits. The correlation matrix for grain quality traits is depicted in Table 3. Highly positive significant association was observed for hundred seed weight with dry seed weight (0.98) followed by soaked seed volume (0.75), soaked seed weight (0.69), cooking time (0.63), dry seed volume (0.62), dry seed density (0.50) and swelling capacity (0.40) as shown in Fig. 3. \r\nThis was in accordance with the findings of Veni et al. (2015) in black gram except for soaked seed density. While the positive non-significant association was recorded for hundred seed weight with volume expansion percentage (0.18) and swelling index (0.18). A negative significant hydration index with hundred seed weight was reported by Veni et al. (2015) in black gram. \r\nDry seed volume and soaked seed volume were positively and significantly correlated with dry seed weight and soaked seed weight. Soaked seed density was positively correlated with soaked seed weight and dry seed volume while it showed a negative significant association with dry seed density. A positive and significant association was observed for water absorption percentage with soaked seed weight, dry seed volume and soaked seed density. Volume expansion percentage had a positive significant correlation with soaked seed volume and dry seed density. Hydration capacity and hydration index were intercorrelated with dry seed volume, soaked seed weight, soaked seed density and water absorption percentage which was in line with the results of Neyaz and Bajpai (2002) in pigeon pea, Ghosh and Panda (2006b) in green gram, Sethi et al. (2008) in pigeon pea, Singh (2016) in chickpea, Veni et al. (2015) in black gram and Honnappa et al. (2018) in chickpea. Hydration capacity and hydration index recorded a negative significant association with dry seed density. Swelling capacity and swelling index had a positive significant intercorrelation with soaked seed volume and volume expansion percentage. Veni et al. (2015) documented that the swelling capacity was positively inter-correlated with dry seed density but negatively inter-correlated with soaked seed density which was in alignment with the current outcome. Cooking time showed a highly positive association with dry seed weight, soaked seed weight, dry seed volume, soaked seed volume, volume expansion percentage, swelling capacity and index. Hence, the findings revealed that the bold seeded genotypes require more time for cooking compared to medium (COGG 18-17) and small-seeded genotypes (Asha mung), which was in alignment with the reports of Afzal et al. (2003). Cooking time was negatively correlated with soaked seed density, water absorption percentage and hydration index, implying that the cooking time will be considerably reduced by presoaking of seeds before cooking.\r\nPath coefficient studies. The path coefficient splits the correlation coefficient into direct and indirect effects to measure both the direct and indirect contribution of each independent variable (cause) to the dependent variable (effect). It was based on the method followed by Dewey and Lu (1959) and given in Table 4. The residual effect was 0.022 which implies that the chosen traits are sufficient for the study.\r\n\r\nDirect effect. The trait, water absorption percentage (1.92) recorded the highest direct effect followed by hydration capacity (1.61), dry seed weight (1.57) and dry seed density (1.05). A high direct positive effect was observed in volume expansion percentage (0.47) while a negligible direct effect was observed for dry seed volume (0.09) and cooking time (0.001). Hydration index expressed the highest negative direct effect (-1.72) followed by swelling index (-1.14) and soaked seed volume (-1.01) and a low direct negative effect was observed in soaked seed volume (-0.19) and swelling capacity (-0.14). A comparable result was obtained by Ghosh and Panda (2006a) for soaked seed weight, dry seed volume, soaked seed volume, hydration capacity and hydration index in urdbean. A negative direct effect on swelling capacity was also observed by Honnappa et al. (2018) in chickpea. The result obtained by Ghosh and Panda (2006b) in green gram was contrary for traits like dry seed volume, dry seed density, hydration capacity, swelling capacity and hydration index. Similar findings were reported by Veni et al. (2015) in black gram for swelling capacity, soaked seed weight, dry seed density and soaked seed density.\r\nIndirect effect. The positive and very high indirect effect was expressed for soaked seed weight (1.104) and soaked seed volume (1.22) while the high positive indirect effect was exhibited by dry seed volume (0.99), dry seed density (0.79), swelling capacity (0.74) and cooking time (0.97) through dry seed weight on hundred seed weight. Dry seed weight (0.52) and swelling index (0.52) had a high indirect effect through dry seed density. Dry seed density (0.32), volume expansion percentage (0.55), swelling capacity (0.38) and swelling index (0.55) had a high indirect effect through soaked seed density on hundred seed weight. A very high indirect effect on hundred seed weight was observed for soaked seed density (1.15), hydration capacity (1.80) and hydration index (1.97) through water absorption percentage. Through hydration capacity, traits such as water absorption percentage (1.47), hydration index (1.47) and soaked seed weight (1.08) exhibited a very high indirect effect on hundred seed weight, while, dry seed volume (0.94), soaked seed volume (0.738, swelling capacity (0.34) and cooking time (0.36) recorded high indirect effect. But these results were contrary to Ghosh and Panda (2006b). Dry seed density (1.54), dry seed weight (0.677) and volume expansion percentage (0.55) had a high indirect effect on the hundred seed weight through hydration index.\r\nSensory evaluation. The sensory evaluation of the 20 cooked mungbean genotypes was done by a panel of seven members and the results are depicted in Table 6. The sensory evaluation along with the cooking time helps in the effective selection of superior genotype for cooking quality.\r\n\r\nTaste, texture and overall acceptability were the sensory attributes assessed for the 20 genotypes using the 9- point hedonic scale ranging from 1 to 9. For texture, the genotypes, DGG V2, VGG 18002 and COGG 979 recorded the highest score (9) and the least score (6) was obtained by genotypes viz., RM 20-13, COGG 17-03 and CO 7. The genotypes namely, COGG 980 and VGG 18006 recorded the highest score (9) followed by VGG 16046, DGG V2, VGG 18002, COGG 18-17, KM 20-199, COGG 13-39, COGG 17-13 and CO 7 obtained a score of 8 for taste. Based on the overall acceptability, the genotypes such as COGG 980, DGG V2, VGG 18006 and VGG 18002 were identified as superior genotypes for cooking quality. Thus, based on the observations, the bold seeded types were found to be superior to medium and small seeded types for cooking quality especially for palatability. \r\n','Jenifer Sylvia J., Murugan E., Muthuramu S., Renuka R. and Vellaikumar S. (2022). Genetic Variability and Inter-Relationships among Grain Physical Quality Traits in Mungbean (Vigna radiata L. Wilczek). Biological Forum – An International Journal, 14(3): 732-740.'),(5354,'136','In-vitro Evaluation of Ginger (Zingiber officinale Rosc.) Rhizome Extract with the Recommended Chemical under different against Fungal Pathogens','Manvendra Choudhary* and Rajni Singh Sasode','124 In-vitro Evaluation of Ginger (Zingiber officinale Rosc.) Rhizome Extract with the Recommended Chemical under different against Fungal Pathogens Manvendra Choudhar.pdf','',1,'Ginger (Zingiber officinale Rosc.) the gingerols are the main pungent compounds found in ginger. Ginger\'s nutritional profile includes protein, lipids, carbohydrates, minerals, vitamins, and trace nutrients. The purpose of this study is to evaluate the antifungal activity of crude, powdered, boiled, and ethanol extracts of ginger against test pathogens. In-vitro testing of ginger rhizome extract with the recommended chemical against fungal pathogens Sclerotium rolfsii, Colletotrichum gloeosporioides, Sclerotinia Sclerotium, Fusarium pallidoroseum, Alternaria solani, Fusarium oxysporum f. sp. Ciceri, Alternaria alternate. The overall effectiveness of powdered and boiled extract against the corresponding fungus was progressively increased with increasing concentration from 20% to 50%, but complete suppression of the different test fungus could not be accomplished even at the maximum concentration, 50%. Carbendazim (0.1%) and mancozeb (0.2%) were found to be more effective than Zingiber officinale rhizome extract (powdered/boiled) up to a concentration of 50%. Extracts are more effective at higher concentrations.','Ginger, In-vitro, Fungal pathogens, Powdered extracts and Boiled extracts','The level of effectiveness of powdered and boiled extract against the respective fungus increased gradually as concentration increased from 20% to 50%, but complete inhibition of the respective test fungus could not be achieved even at the maximum concentration, 50%. Up to a concentration of 50%, carbendazim (0.1%) and mancozeb (0.2%) were found to be more effective than Zingiber officinale rhizome extract (powdered/boiled). Higher concentrations of extracts are more effective.','INTRODUCTION\r\nThe rhizomes of ginger (Zingiber officinale Rosc.) contain both aromatic and pungent compounds (McGee, 2004). Gingerol 6-gingerol [5-hydroxy-1-(4\'-hydroxy-3\'-methoxyphenyl)-3-decanone] a yellow pungent body; an oleoresin-\"gingerin\" the active principle, Protein, lipids, carbohydrates, minerals, vitamins, and trace nutrients are all found in ginger. Capsaicin, curcumin, limonene, and proteolytic enzymes are also found in ginger. It is also one of the most effective carrier herbs, with the ability to boost digestive absorption by up to 200 percent (Belewu, 2006). Many countries experienced yield losses due to vegetable diseases caused by soil-borne plant pathogens. Damping-off, root rot, and wilt of vegetables are considered the most damaging diseases (Fusarium solani, Fusarium oxysporum, Sclerotium rolfsii, Rhizoctonia solani, Alternaria solani, Macrophomina phaseolina, and Pythium spp) (Abdel-Rehim et al., 1987; Celar, 2000). Gingerols are the main pungent compounds found in ginger. Ginger\'s nutritional profile includes protein, lipids, carbohydrates, minerals, vitamins, and trace nutrients. Ginger also contains capsaicin, curcumin, limonene, and proteolytic enzymes. It is also one of the best carrier herbs, with the potential to increase digestive absorption by up to 200 percent (Belewu, 2006). Furthermore, their use in agriculture could be a viable alternative for inclusion in disease control systems, acting as either primary or adjuvant antimicrobial compounds. Zingiberon, bisabolen, camphene, geranial, linalool, and borneol are antimicrobial components of gigeroil. Phytochemicals found in medicinal plants have antimicrobial properties against some plant pathogenic fungi. However little research has been undertaken on the antifungal activity of these extracts. The purpose of this study is to evaluate the antifungal activity of crude, powdered, boiled, and ethanol extracts of ginger against test pathogens.\r\nMATERIAL AND METHOD\r\nThe different forms were evaluated in vitro against different pathogen under CRD replicated thrice. \r\nExperiment Details-\r\nDesign - CRD\r\nReplication- 3\r\nTreatment- 4\r\nDetails of treatment \r\n(A) Pathogens- Rhizoctonia solani, R. bataticola, Colletrotrichum gloeospoioides, Fusarium pallidoroseum, F. oxysporum f. sp. cicer, Phoma sorghina, Sclerotium rolfsii, Sclarotinia sclerotium, Alternaria solani, A. alternate. \r\nExtract\r\n1. Powdered extract: To prepare powder extract, fresh rhizomes of Zingiber officinale will be thoroughly washed in ordinary tap water, cut into small pieces, and dried in an oven at 60% for two days.\r\n2. Rhizome crude extract: The rhizome of Zingiber officinale will be ground to make the crude extract. Before grinding, an equal amount of water (1:1 weight/volume basis) will be added. For in-vitro testing, crushed extracts will be used at a concentration of 20%.\r\n3. Boiled extract: The fresh Rhizome of Zingiber officinale will be washed, dried in the shade, weighted, and boiled for two hours before being filtered and water added to maintain a 1:1 weight/volume ratio. The extract will be stored and used for bioassay of the test fungus at a concentration of 20%.\r\n4. Ethanol Extracts: Twenty grammes of this powder were soaked in 200 ml of the solvent ethanol for 24 hours to make an ethanol extract. The filtrate was then evaporated to dryness after being filtered through Whattman filter paper no. 1. This powdered dried extract was then dissolved in distilled water.\r\nRESULT AND DISCUSSION\r\nIt is clear that Z. officinale rhizome extract in powdered form at 40% and 50% concentrations significantly inhibited the growth of R. solani, but not completely; however, absolute inhibition was recorded in carbendazim (0.1%) treatment. Both chemicals outperformed the Zingiber officinale rhizome extract at both concentrations (40 and 50 percent). Higher concentrations of Zingiber officinale rhizome extract (50%) outperformed lower concentrations (40 percent). In the 50% and 40% concentrations, an average of 7.5 and 17.5 mm growth was recorded, respectively, with a maximum of 89.2 mm growth recorded in the control (Shamim et al., 2004). Presently, worked on the control of seedlings damping-off diseases is mainly based on the application of fungicides and the adverse effects of these fungicides on environment and human health have focused the efforts on developing environmentally safe, long lasting and effective biocontrol agents. Jasso de Rodriguez et al. (2007) evaluated fungal activity of Aloe vera pulp on mycelial growth of Rhizoctonia solani and Fusarium oxysporum.\r\nThe data summarized in table 1 show that Zingiber officinale rhizome extract in powdered form @ 40 and 50% concentrations significantly inhibited the growth of R. bataticola, but not completely; however, absolute inhibition was recorded in carbendazim (0.1 percent) treatments. Both chemicals performed significantly better than powdered extract at both concentrations (40 and 50 percent). The higher concentration of rhizome extract (50%) out performed the lower concentration (40 percent). An average of 18.6 mm and 8.8 mm growth was recorded in 40% and 50% rhizome extract concentrations, respectively, with a maximum of 90.0 mm growth recorded in control. Jha and Sharma (2008) screened an aqueous autoclaved leaf extract of eighty three plant species in-vitro for their fungicidal activity against isolates of Rhizoctonia bataticola by paper disc diffusion assay technique. The study revealed that only a few plant extract viz., Rannunculus scleratus, Xanthium stramonium, Zingiber officinale, Ipomoea carnea, Ocimum basilicum and Eclipta alba showed varied antifungal activities.\r\nIt is clear that mancozeb (0.2 percent) and carbendazim (0.1 percent) significantly inhibited the growth of C. gloeosporioides, but these treatments could not completely inhibit the growth. However, minimum growth was recorded in carbendazim @ 0.1 percent (0.00 mm), followed by mancozeb @ 0.2 percent (2.1mm), Z. officinale rhizome extract @ 50 percent concentration (8.4mm), and Carbendazim at 0.1 percent was found to be significantly more effective than mancozeb. Powdered extract at 50% was statistically significant over 40%, and both treatments were significantly superior to the control. Rajmane and Korekar (2012) screened aqueous leaf extract, medicinal plant gums, latex of medicinal plants and plant essential oils to test their fungitoxic properties against post-harvest fungi. Plant extract of Eucalyptus angophoroides and Zingiber officinale found to be fungitoxic for the growth of Alternaria alternata, Botryodiplodia theobromae, Colletotrichum gloeosporioides, Fusarium oxysporum, Penicillium chrysogenum and Phoma caricae. These result supports the result of Somda et at. (2007). \r\nThe data show that powdered extracts of Z. officinale at 40% and 50% concentrations significantly inhibited the growth of Phoma sorghina, but not completely, whereas mancozeb completely inhibited the growth (0.2 per cent). and carbendazim at 0.1 percent (0.00 mm), followed by a powdered extract of Z. officinale at 50% (10.4 mm) and a powdered extract at 40% (10.4 mm) (25.1 mm). Mancozeb and carbendazim outperformed both concentrations of rhizome powdered extract significantly. Control had the highest growth rate of 89.0 mm. Essential oils and extracts of Azadirachta indica, Zingiber officinale, and Eucalyptus camaldulensis were tested against Fusarium moniliforme, Phoma sorghina, and Colletotrichum graminicola, and the extent of inhibition was found to be concentration dependent (Somda et al., 2007). Similarly, tulsi oil inhibited the growth of both phytopathogenic and storage fungi (Oxenham et al., 2005).\r\nThe data show that Z. officinale rhizome extract in the boiled form at 40% and 50% concentrations significantly inhibit the growth of F. pallidorosem, but not completely; however, absolute inhibition was recorded in carbendazim at 0.1 percent and mancozeb at 0.2 percent. These fungicides outperformed the boiled extract of Z. officinale rhizome in both concentrations. The 50 percent concentration of boiled extract outperformed the 40 percent concentration. Harsh (1998) trials were carried out to control the damping-off and wilt disease of Albizia lebbek seedlings caused by Fusarium pallidoroseum by using the extracts of 8 plant (weed) species. The leaf extract of Vitex negundo, Zingiber officinale and plant extract of Cuscuta reflexa were most effective in inhibiting the conidial germination and mycelia growth of the pathogen and also in controlling the disease in field.\r\n It is clear that Z. officinale rhizome extract in boiled form at 40% and 50% concentrations significantly inhibited the growth of F. oxysporum f. sp. ciceri, but it showed no growth in mancozeb (0.2 percent) and carbendazim (0.2 percent) (0.1 percent). Mancozeb and carbendazim outperformed both concentrations (40 and 50 percent) of rhizome extract. The higher concentration of boiled extract (50%) outperformed the lower concentration (40 percent). In the 50% and 40% concentrations, an average of 10.7 mm and 24.7 mm growth was observed, respectively, with a maximum of 87.9 mm growth observed in the control. Yeni (2011) the pathogenicity test showed that these six spoilage fungi: Botryodiplodia theobromae, Aspergillus niger, Aspergillus flavus, Fusarium oxysporum, Fusarium solani and Rhizopus stolonifer cause rot of yam. The test plants used were: Allium sativum (bulb), Ocimum gratissimum (leaf), Zingiber officinale (rhizome) and Nicotiana tabacum (leaf). Result found in conformity with Shamim et al. (2004); Ushiki et al. (1996); Jasso de Rodriguez et al. (2007); Curir et al. (2005). \r\nIt is clear that boiled rhizome extract of Z. officinale @ 40 and 50 per cent concentrations significantly inhibited the growth of S. rolfsii; however Carbendazim (0.1%) absolutely inhibited the growth. Minimum growth was recorded in Mancozeb @ 0.2% (4.3mm) followed by boiled extract @ 50% (8.7 mm) and @ 40% (23.7 mm). The maximum of 90.00 mm growth was recorded in control. Carbendazim @ 0.1% was found significantly superior over mancozeb and both the concentrations of Z. officinale. The 50% concentration was significantly superior over its 40% concentration. The boiled rhizome extract of Z. officinale significantly inhibited the growth of S. rolfsii, however Carbendazim (0.1%) absolutely inhibited the growth. Carbendazim was found significantly superior over mancozeb and both the concentrations of Z. officinale. These finding are supported by Vasilescu et al. (2004); Celer (2000); Abdel- Rehim et al. (1987).\r\nIt is clear that Z. officinale boiled extract at 40% and 50% inhibited the growth of S. sclerotium significantly but not completely. While mancozeb @ 0.2 percent and carbendazim @ 0.1 percent (0.00 mm) showed complete inhibition, boiled extract @ 50 percent (8.5 mm) and @ 40 percent (26.8 mm). Mancozeb and carbendazim outperformed both concentrations of rhizome boiled extract significantly. Boiled extract at 50% was significantly higher than 40%. The maximum of 87.7 mm growth was recorded in control. Stangarlin et al. (2007) the effect of aqueous extract of ginger was evaluated at concentrations of 1, 5, 10, 15, 20 and 25% on Sclerotinia sclerotiorum mycelial growth and sclerodia production, in vitro. The efficiency of protection of ginger was also verified in lettuce plants growth organically and inoculated with the pathogen. Besides the disease incidence, the crop yield and the peroxidase induction were analyzed in the tissue plants. The results showed the antimicrobial activity of ginger with mycelial growth and sclerodia production inhibition. \r\nThe data show that Z. officinale rhizome boiled form at 40% and 50% concentrations significantly inhibited the growth of Alternaria solani but could not completely stop the growth; however, absolute inhibition was recorded in mancozeb (0.2%) and carbendazim (0.1%) treatments. Both chemicals performed significantly better than rhizome extract at both concentrations (40 and 50%). An 8.5 mm and 22.6 mm growth was recorded in 50% and 40% concentrations, respectively, while a maximum of 87.7 mm growth was recorded in control. Damping-off, Root rot and Wilt of vegetables is considered to be reused by Fusarium solani, Fusarium oxysporum, Sclerotium rolfsii, Rhizoctonia solani, Alternaria solani, Macrophomina phaseolina and Pythium spp. to be the most deleterious diseases (Abdel-Rehim et al., 1987; Celar, 2000). So far, apart from scientific and practical difficulties, there is no economic way to control the crop diseases. Plant pathogenic fungi are ubiquitous in intensive agricultural areas and are extensively controlled by using a large number of inorganic and organic chemical fungicides.\r\nThe boiled extract of Z. officinale at 40% and 50% concentrations significantly but not completely inhibited the growth of A. alternata, but no growth was observed in carbendazim at 0.1 percent (0.00 mm) and mancozeb at 0.2 percent (0.00 mm), followed by boiled extract at 50% concentration (6.8 mm) and 40% concentration (20.8 mm), with a maximum of 89.2 growth observed in control. Carbendazim at 0.1 percent and mancozeb at 0.2 percent were found to be significantly superior to both concentrations of boiled extract. According to Fawzi et al. (2009), boiled extract of Z. officinale significantly but not completely inhibited the growth of A. alternata, but carbendazim and mancozeb had no effect. Carbendazim and mancozeb were found to be significantly more effective than both concentrations of boiled extract.\r\n','Manvendra Choudhary and Rajni Singh Sasode (2022). In-vitro Evaluation of Ginger (Zingiber officinale Rosc.) Rhizome Extract with the Recommended Chemical under different against Fungal Pathogens. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 14(3): 741-745.');
INSERT INTO `pdf_upload` VALUES (5355,'136','Menstrual Hygiene Management Facilities at home affect the Academic Performance of Adolescent Girls','Jyoti Sihag, and PoonamYadav','125 Menstrual Hygiene Management Facilities at home affect the Academic Performance of Adolescent Girls Jyoti Sihag.pdf','',1,'Adolescence in girls has been recognized as a special period which signifies the transition from girlhood to womanhood. The purpose of this study was to better understand the challenges that girls face due to lack of menstrual hygiene facilities in home and its impact on their academic performance. \r\n The study was conducted on 240 adolescent girls who’s belongs from rural and urban areas of Hisar district. Self-developed schedules were used to delineate personal, socio-personal variables and facilities at home in terms of menstrual hygiene management and academic performance.\r\nThe study found majority of respondents from rural area reported lack of proper disposal facility for MHM materials and unavailability of adequate sanitary material. Majority of respondents of rural background were unsatisfied with the family communication and guidance on MHM they received at homes.\r\nThe findings indicated that major challenges that girls face in their homes like lack of proper infrastructural facilities like proper toilet, proper health care facilities during menstruation, proper disposal system act as a hindrance in implementing proper menstrual hygiene management. Rural respondent’s academic performance had more effected as comparison to urban respondents. We recommend that menstrual hygiene management awareness programs and some intervention programmes which helps in providing positive support for adolescent girls.\r\n','Adolescents, academic performance, menstrual hygiene management, home environment, school environment, rural adolescent, urban adolescent','The study found that facilities at home in terms of menstrual hygiene management, girls reported lack of proper disposal system for sanitary materials and lack of availability of changing rooms. Study revealed that academic performance of rural adolescent girls was more affected as comparisons to urban adolescent girls. ','INTRODUCTION \r\nAdolescence is the turning point where the hormonal and metabolic changes take place, menstruation begins and fertility is achieved (Mughal et al., 2021). Onset of menstruation is one of the vital changes happening in all females during their period of adolescence. Menarche is not just a physiological process but it is a psychological, social, and behavioral transition from adolescence to womanhood. Menstrual hygiene has been an issue of concern worldwide especially in developing nations. Insufficient opportunities to practice healthy menstrual hygiene recently received attention as a barrier to education for girls in low- and middle-income countries. Although adolescence is a healthy period of life, many are often less informed, less experienced, and less comfortable in accessing reproductive health information and services (Yusuf et al., 2010). This leads to culmination in repression of feelings which can cause intense mental stress and seek health advice from quacks and persons having inadequate knowledge (Singh et al., 1999). The menstrual cycle is a hormonally controlled process, although several factors may influence its length and regularity (Patki, 2017).\r\nMost girls experience some degree of pain and discomfort in their menstruation period, which could have important impacts on their daily activities, and disturb their productivity at home or at their work place (Wong and Khoo 2010). The most common physical symptoms are headaches, breast tenderness, swelling, abdominal bloating, heaviness, low energy, tired and weak, back and muscle pain, sleep more, stay in bed increased/decreased appetite, and crave food), and emotional symptoms are depressed mood, sad, lonely, anxious, nervous, mood swings, trouble with relationships, irritable, angry, impatient, difficulty concentrating, feel out of control, cannot cope, less productive in job or home and avoid social activity. These symptoms sufficient to impair daily activities, a woman\'s experience of premenstrual symptoms has been found to reduce work efficiency, increase absenteeism, and negatively impact on family (Mona et al., 2013). \r\nThough women are vital parts of operative cultures, with conventional roles and rules yet they are vulnerable. The susceptibility of women trunks from socio-political, and economic conditions prevailing (Sharma et al., 2018).\r\nGlobally, at least 500 million women and girls lack adequate facilities for menstrual hygiene management. Lack of WASH (water, sanitation, and hygiene) facilities, particularly in public places, such as in schools and workplaces, can pose a major obstacle to women’s and girl’s menstrual hygiene (Sahiledengle et al., 2022). In school settings, lack of clean, functional, private and gender-speciﬁc WASH facilities, fear of blood leaking, poor access to sanitary materials and inappropriate responses by male students and teachers are commonly reported to be associated with poor MHM and absenteeism due to menstruation (Sommer, 2010). \r\nMenstruation and poor MHM can also lead to school dropout, absenteeism and other psychological concerns that have substantial long term health and socio-economic ramifications for adolescent girls. In school settings, lack of clean, functional, private and gender-speciﬁc WASH facilities, fear of blood leaking, poor access to sanitary materials and inappropriate responses by male students and teachers are commonly reported to be associated with poor MHM and absenteeism due to menstruation (Sommer, 2010). The Government of India has recognized the importance of menstrual hygiene to the health, well-being and educational achievements of girls and women, and has developed several programs to improve menstrual hygiene management (MHM) in schools, targeted at improving knowledge, access and disposal of menstrual waste, and improving sanitation in schools, with support from a number of organizations (Muralidharan et al., 2015).\r\nObjectives:\r\n1. Comparison the menstrual hygiene practice among adolescent girls across residential area.\r\n2. To study the effect of menstrual hygiene practice on academic performance.\r\nREVIEWS OF LITERATURE\r\nBehera et al. (2022) found that more than two thirds (68.4%) of rural households use improved sanitation facilities. Around 30% of families have inadequate sanitation infrastructure, which means at least one household member defecates in the open space. Nearly 64.6% disposed of their menstrual absorbents in the bush or field, while 29.1% disposed in the river and 24.1% in the waste bin. Still, 40.6% of women were using clothes as menstrual absorbents, and 54.9% of the respondents reported washing their menstrual materials for re‑use. About 91% of the respondents reported that the place where they changed their menstrual absorbents was safe, clean, and private. Only 22.5% of women responded to having water and soap at their menstruation management area.\r\nGarg et al. (2021) stated that prevalence of school absenteeism during menstruation among adolescent girls of resettlement colony was 43.1% Out of 307 girls who had school absenteeism, 285 (92.8%) had missed for 1-3 days. The most prevalent self-reported reasons for school absenteeism during menstruation were pain during menstruation 75.6% followed by staining of cloths 43.6% and uncomfortable feeling 39.4%. School absenteeism was significantly associated with studying in government school, suffering from menstruation related problems, and pads being provided from schools.\r\nBulto (2021) found that 72.5 percent of school adolescents had adequate MHM practice and just 34.7 percent had acceptable overall knowledge about menstruation. Urban adolescents were getting information about menstruation from mothers and teachers. School toilets with inside lock, not missing school during menstruation, any whitish or grey discharge per-vagina and having good general awareness of menstruation were all significantly linked with adequate MHM practice.\r\nYaliwal et al. (2020) stated that 70.5 per cent of the girls reached between the ages of 12 and 14.9 years, 37.2 per cent of the girls had 28-34 day cycles, and 12.2 per cent of the girls had heavy periods. Dysmenorrhea affected 61.95 per cent of the girls, and 9.7 percent of the girls indicated they needed pain medication.70.7 percent of the girls used disposable sanitary napkins, 12.7 percent used cloth, and 15.3 percent used both 55.5 percent of the girls who used cloth as an absorbent did not allow the material to dry in the sun. More than two times a day, 57.1 percent of the girls washed their genitals.\r\nMETHODOLOGY\r\nThe study was conducted purposively in Hisar district of Haryana state as the study required frequent visits to each selected school for data collection. One district was selected randomly. From selected district, to draw rural sample two villages was selected randomly and from selected villages two schools was randomly selected. For urban sample similar procedure was adopted to draw the sample from schools located in city area. From the selected schools of rural locations, total of 120 adolescent girls which comprise 60 early adolescents and 60 late adolescents were selected randomly. Similar procedure was adopted for selection of urban sample. Hence, a total of 240 adolescent girls (120 rural and 120 urban) constituted the sample for the study. Self- developed questionnaire was used to obtain information on personal and socio-economic variables. Information on facilities at school and home in terms of MHM was collected with the help of self -developed interview schedule. And academic performance measured by self –developed interview schedule.\r\nStatistical analysis. To draw the inferences as per different objectives data analyzed using appropriate statistical tests–frequency and percentage, mean, Standard Deviation. Chi-square test, z test and Anova.\r\nRESULTS\r\nPersonal Profile of rural and urban adolescent girls. Data on personal profile of the respondents is presented to bring out their characteristic features in Table 1. Results for the personal profile are revealed that sampling was done on the basis of area of residence as well as for the total sample. Results tabulated on presented in Table 1 illustrated that for the total sample overall mean age of 10-14 year age group was 13.0±0.80 years and for 15-19 age group was 16.6±0.67 years. Regarding the class wise distribution of respondents, 31.7 percent were studying in 6th - 8th classes and 33.3 percent were in the 9th - 10th standard and rest of 35 percent were in the 11th - 12th classes. Further, regarding the birth order, maximum respondents (57.1%) were 2nd and 3rd born followed by 35.4 percent were 1st born and rest 7.5 percent respondents were only child in their families. Mean age of menarche observed in overall sample was 12.76±0.96 years. In case of menstrual profile more than half of the respondent (54.2%) had medium menarche (13-14) while 35.4 percent had early menarche (10-12) and rest 10.4 percent had delayed menarche. With regards to duration of menarche of respondents, results depicted that 15 percent respondents duration of menstrual cycle was <21 days followed by 62.9 percent had cycle of 28-35 days and rest 22.1 percent experienced cycle duration of >35 days. In case of menstrual bleeding more than half (62.9%) of the respondent had menstrual bleeding from 2-6 days followed by 32.9 percent had bleeding <2 days and rest 5.4 percent had menstrual bleeding >6 days. With regards to menstrual cycle pattern, 66.7 percent respondents had regular and only 33.3 percent had irregular cycle pattern. Out of total sample 59.2 percent respondents had moderate amount of menstrual bleeding followed by 26.6% respondent who reported heavy bleeding and rest 14.2 percent had minimal amount of bleeding during periods. Table data highlights that maximum (55.8%) respondents experienced moderate pain followed by 27.5 percent had severe pain and rest 16.7 percent respondents had minimal pain during menses.\r\nFacilities at home in term of menstrual hygiene management (MHM). This study showed data on assessment area wise facilities at home in term of menstrual hygiene management (Table 2). Majority of the respondents (93.8 %) had clean and hygiene toilet and bathroom facilities at home followed by 91.3% respondents reported proper privacy in toilet and bathroom. Majority of rural (91.7%) and urban (97.5%) homes had adequate supply of clean water facilities. Similar trend was observed for availability of soap and hand wash materials. More than half of the respondents (67.1%) had proper disposal facility for MHM material, approximately three fourth (71.7%) had availability of adequate and hygiene sanitary material for periods, 57.5% respondents received proper health care facilities during menstruation, and 52.9% had proper dietary care during menstruation. Regarding behavioral practices by family member’s nearly one third (30.8%) rural respondents and 20.8 % urban girls reported various social and cultural restrictions used by their families. Regarding family communication and guidance on MHM issues more than half of the rural adolescents (66.7%) reported lack of such activities, whereas, their counter parts were at better position as 74.2% respondents agreed on the fact that their families were providing guidance and healthy communication on MHM issues. \r\nLevel of facilities at home in term of menstrual hygiene management (MHM). Presents data on level of facilities at home in term of menstrual hygiene management as reported by rural and urban adolescent girls (Table 3). Results highlighted that 42.5% respondents from rural area and 23.3% respondents from urban area were unsatisfied with home facilities, whereas, 57.5% respondents from rural area and 76.7% respondents from urban area were satisfied with home facilities. \r\nDistribution of adolescents on different aspects of academic performance \r\nTable 4 presents data on distribution of adolescents on different aspects of academic performance. \r\n(i) Classroom performance: Data presented in the table revealed that out of total sample 60.8 per cent respondents had no interest to go to the school, 70 per cent lack concentration during study hours, 51.3% reported difficulty in remembering all that is studied and 70.4% were hesitant to go for practical during periods due to menstrual distress.\r\n(ii) Examination performance: Regarding this aspect, table showed that 67.5% respondents had no interest to write examination during this time, 55.4% respondents were unable to prepare for examination, 49.2% were getting slow in writing examination and more than half of the respondents (53.3%) lack concentration during examination due to feeling of distressed during periods. \r\n(iii) Assignment performance: With regard to assignment performance results highlight that 55.8% respondents were unable to complete the assignment in time, 59.6% were not able to think critically, 69.2% made excuses from teachers for assignment and 67.5% respondents were not able to do presentation.\r\n(iv) Extracurricular performance: Data depicted that majority (81.7%) respondents were not interested in stage performance, 78.7% had difficulty in participating in extracurricular activities, more than half of the respondents 65% faced difficulty in public speaking and 84.2% were not interested in extra classes during periods. \r\n(v) Relationship performance: Results revealed that 59.2% respondents were getting mood swings, 52.9% had feeling of inferiority, 60% lack of self-confidence and 70.4% were not interested to meet the teachers due to effects of menstrual distress.\r\nDISCUSSION \r\nIn the present study the age of the study participants ranged from 10 to 19 years with the mean age being 13.0 years for early adolescents and 16.6 years for late adolescents. Majority of the rural and urban respondents were studying in the 11th - 12th class with 2nd or 3rd birth order. The mean age of menarche of study participants was 12.76 years which was comparable with studies conducted by (Ghongdemath et al., 2016). It further supports the statement that age at menarche has largely decreased in most developed countries and seems stabilized at 13 ± 0.5 years with variations between countries (Gaudineau et al., 2010). Data related to menstrual profile revealed that more than half of the respondents had attained menarche at medium age (13-14 years) with 28-35 days of menstrual cycle. Maximum respondents had regular cycle pattern and menstrual bleeding lasted for 2-6 days every month. More than half of the respondents had moderate amount of menstrual bleeding and pain occurred during their menstruation. Appropriate facilities at home in term of MHM help to reduce the menstrual distress among the adolescent girls. Results revealed that more than half of the respondents irrespective with the area were satisfied with home facilities. The results revealed that rural adolescents reported lack of school and home facilities in terms of MHM in comparison to urban adolescent girls. Ha and Alam (2022) study observed significant urban–rural differences in terms of menstrual hygiene management practices. Like the residents of urban areas have better menstrual hygiene management practices than rural areas. As a result, the percentage of respondents who did not participate in social activities, school, or work due to their last menstruation was significantly higher in rural areas than urban. Kapoor and Khari, (2016) finding that 85% girls had toilet facility at home; still many had poor menstrual hygienic practices, thus emphasizing the need of health education to them. Majority of the respondents had reported that their academic performance in terms of classroom, examination, assignment, extracurricular and relationship was affected during their menstruation. The results are in line with Raju and Suguna (2017) study which showed that 134 students (67%) were not having interest to go to the college during menstruation, and 142 (71%) were reported lack of concentration during study hours. The menstrual symptoms were affecting the remembrances ability of the students also, while 116 (58%) said that they had difficulty in remembering the studied contents and 152 (76%) were said that they had a feeling of hesitation to go for practical classes. Another study (Tolossa and Bekele 2014) reported that academic performance impairment due to premenstrual syndrome, 28.3% reported frequent class missing, 9.8% exam missing, 8.1% low grade scoring associated with their premenstrual syndrome and 1.7% of them reported withdrawal from their learning in study done in Mekelle University, Northern Ethiopia. Also another study done in Saudi Arabia (Balaha et al., 2010) about phenomenology of premenstrual syndrome in female medical students, reported that performance impairment like poor concentration in class 48.3%, low college attendance 46%, going out of the home 43.8%, daily home chores 41.6% and homework tasks 36% was due to premenstrual syndrome. Ahmed and Piro (2014) study about impact of menstruation on school performance revealed that menstruation affected school exams, participation in class activities and school attendance among 62.7%, 57.1%, 23.2% respectively of the students.\r\n','Jyoti Sihag, and PoonamYadav (2022). Menstrual Hygiene Management Facilities at home affect the Academic Performance of Adolescent Girls. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 14(3): 746-752.'),(5356,'136','Evaluation of Sensory, Packaging and Storage Quality Attributes of different varieties of Paddy for Popped Rice','Praveen Kumar Patle, Anubha Upadhyay, S.S. Shukla and G.K. Rana','126 Evaluation of Sensory, Packaging and Storage Quality Attributes of different varieties of Paddy for Popped Rice Praveen Kumar Patle.pdf','',1,'This study was aimed to evaluate of sensory, packaging and storage quality attributes of seven paddy varieties developed product such as popped rice from varieties developed by JNKVV Jabalpur. It was observed that significant differences found in most of the characteristics of packaging, sensory and storage quality of popped rice were observed across different cultivars. Among the seven rice varieties, best popping quality product was obtained by the JR-206 and Kranti varieties. It was found that most acceptable popped rice had the best overall acceptability score viz. 7.73 was observed in JR-206 and least score viz. 7.44 in kranti variety. The highest score of color, flavor, texture, taste and overall acceptability score was found in aluminum foil packaging material in the storage period up to 90 days. The probable reason could be the better popping quality of rice. It was noticed that higher popping quality characteristics were observed for each variety at 150-160°C roasting temperature. Higher popping yield was found in JR-206 and Kranti varieties which was rated high in sensory acceptability. The data were analyzed by skeleton of ANOVA for complete randomized design (CRD). Selection of rice variety for popping is primarily dependent upon its quality of popped grain which is directly correlated with its expansion during popping and its sensory preferences. However, the sensory preferences also vary among popped rice produced from different varieties of rice with similar high amylose content. Current work aims to establish storage duration with packaging material for retain of moisture and economical losses. A rice from a group of similar long storage period containing varieties by forming correlations between sensory characteristics of popped rice. ','Packaging, popping, sensory, cultivars, storage','Popping is a simple and low-cost processing method that improves the textural and sensory qualities of cereals while causing minimal changes in the nutrient composition of the processed product. The current study\'s goal is to examine several advanced methods for measuring the sensory quality of popped rice and to propose a traditional method for evaluating rice product in sensory evaluation based on hardness. We measured the packaging and storage properties of commercial rice roasted product to assess their quality and deterioration during storage and increased significantly after 30 days at room temperature storage. \r\nTraditionally, popped products are only prepared on a few occasions. As consumer preferences shift toward more convenient foods and less refined or polished grains, this type of home processed ready-to-eat snack has a large market potential as value added health products and convenient food. \r\n','INTRODUCTION\r\nRice (Oryza sativa) is the staple food for 65% of the population in India. It remains the largest expended calorie source among the food grains. Popped, Puffed and flaked rice is a general snack food product in India and has been widely produced for centuries. Global paddy production in 2020-21 is 791 MT (FAO), India and MP produce record of 117.46 MT and 10.9 MT in 2020-21 respectively (Ministry of Agriculture and Farmers Welfare). In the present research application of sand roasting in the production of value-added products from rice such as popped and roasted cereals. In addition, the importance of sand roasting in terms of grain characteristics, nutritional, sensory, and functional properties of the products is highlighted (Mishra et al., 2014) Popped rice. It is known as pelalu (telugu), khoi (bengali) etc. in various Indian languages. It is a traditional value-added product with high cold water swelling capacity originated from raw paddy; arising from high starch gelatinization and low retrogradation. It is prepared directly by high-temperature short-time treatment from the moisture-adjusted raw paddy (12–14%) by sand roasting in a pan at a temperature of 220-240°C for 25–45s. In comparison with other value-added rice products, popped rice production is less and mostly used during religious ceremonies (Chitra et al., 2010). Popping using advance technologies are processes which can accomplish all these targets. As a simple, inexpensive and quick traditional method of dry heat application for preparation of weaning food formulations and ready to eat snacks products, popping has been practiced since hundreds of years. Popped rice is one of the earliest known rice’s based popular traditional ready to eat breakfast cereal products in South-East Asia (Bhat et al., 2008). Except moisture, not much is known on the factors influencing popping in rice unlike in maize, where several physio-chemical properties of the kernel are well studied (Ceylan et al., 2002). High popping could be achieved with paddy containing moisture content between 14 and 15%. Time of heating is a sensitive parameter for sharp rise in popping percentage as compared to power level (Swarnakar et al., 2014). The present study was conducted to determine the effect of processing conditions, including temperature and moisture percentage on expansion of popped rice cultivars.\r\nThis study aims to clarify the various properties of popped rice and flake rice starch products. In this study, we investigated the effects of processing conditions such as temperature, soaking time, and moisture of rice products on the expansion of processed rice varieties.\r\nMATERIALS AND METHODS\r\nConcept of Popping and Roasting. Popping of cereals has been practiced since hundreds of years. Popping is a process in which kernels are heated until internal moisture expands and pops out through the outer shell of the kernel. \r\nRoasting is cooking in dry heat in an oven or on a split with the addition of fat or oil. Radiant heat is the means of cooking when using a split; oven roasting is a combination of convection and radiation. (Arkhipov et al., 2005).\r\nSand roasting method. Pre-gelatinized cereals are exposed to hot sand, while temperature of sand is about 250°C. Due to sudden thermal gradient, the moisture inside the grains vaporizes and tries to escape through the micropores, expanding the starchy endosperm in size in this process (Chinnaswamy and Bhattacharya 1983).\r\nBengal gram can also be puffed when the preliminary roasting of grains with sand at 170°C for 75s was carried out followed by tempering the grains for about 90 minutes to reach the moisture content of about 14.9% (wb). The tempered grains were then dipped in water for 5 seconds and impacted between a roller and a hot plate for de-husking and splitting. Under these conditions the bulk volumes of grains doubled during puffing (Pratare and Kurlien 1986).\r\nPopped rice. About 1 kg of paddy was moistened to a ~14% moisture and tempered (equilibrated) overnight. It was then subjected to high temperature short time (HTST) treatment in hot sand (temperature of sand ~240° C) for 25-30 sec as described by Hsieh and Bor (1991), Swarnakar et al. (2014). The paddy to sand ratio taken was 1:10. The mixture was then poured on to a sieve of ~12 mesh size, all the sand particles were removed and popped rice was poured on to a measuring cylinder and expansion ratio was calculated by taking the ratio of the volume of popped rice to volume of processed paddy (initial volume).\r\nPackaging and storage quality. The cooled popped Paddy was packed in three different packaging materials i.e., low density polyethylene bags, Aluminum Foil bags and polypropylene bags for storage study. The sample size was kept in each packaging materials for storage. The duration for experiment was 90 days and observations were recorded at 30 days interval up to 90 days (Lim K.R. et al.2004). \r\nSensory Evaluations. Breakfast cereal was evaluated for sensory parameters like colour, taste, crunchiness and overall acceptability at different intervals of 0, 30, 60 and 90 days by the panel of 10 selected judges. A panel consisting of 10 people evaluated the product for individual characters as color, taste, crunchiness and overall acceptability. The 9- point hedonic scale was used to assess the degree of liking that ranged from ‘Like very much’ to ‘Dislike very much’ with ‘Neither like Nor Dislike’(NLND) as midpoint. Data were analyzed and expressed the number of responses, as percentage (Ranganna, 1986; Rathi et al., 2004). \r\nStatistical Analysis. All experiment were replicated and standard deviations have been reported. The experiment was conducted in complete randomized design (CRD) using OPSTAT, (http://14.139.232.166/opstat/). The data was subjected to one-way analysis of variance (ANOVA) at 5% level of significance: (Cyprien and Kumar 2012).\r\nRESULT AND DISCUSSION\r\nResults showed significant differences between newly introduced rice varieties for most of the traits investigated.\r\nSensory attributes. Rice product like popped rice was served to each member of panel. The panel consisted of 10 members belonging to scientist, research scholars and student of food Technology. On the basis of popping yield and chemical parameters the best-found treatment of all varieties was subjected to sensory studies. Sensory parameters were judges on the basis of 9 points hedonic scale (0-9). The mean score value for these attributes of the popped rice processed from different paddy varieties are presented in Table 1. On the basis of observations recorded by the panelist for the varieties Kranti, JRH5, JRH-8, JRH-10, JR-206, JRH-19 and IR-36, the mean color score was 7.31, 7.33, 7.31, 8.51, 8.88, 7.57 and 7.25, mean flavor score was 7.49, 7.47, 7.59, 6.47, 7.51, 7.98 and 7.77, mean texture score was 6.48, 6.43, 6.38, 8.43, 8.39, 8.29 and 6.64 mean taste score was 7.51, 8.34, 7.28, 7.43,7.33, 8.70 and 7.51, mean overall acceptability score was 7.44, 7.31, 7.27, 7.57, 7.67, 7.73 and 7.27 respectively.\r\nThe highest color, flavor, taste and overall acceptability wise score (8.88), (7.98), (8.70) and (7.28) were found in JR-206 variety and the lowest color score (7.25) was found in IR-36, the lowest flavor score (6.47) was found in JRH-10 variety, lowest taste score was found in (7.28) in JRH-8 variety. Highest texture score (8.43) was found in JRH-10 variety. The lowest texture score (6.37) was found in JRH-8 and the lowest taste score (7.28) was found in JRH-8 and the lowest overall acceptability score (7.27) was found in IR-36.\r\n2 % salt addition was also found to be optimum during the sensory evaluation of the popped rice samples. It was also interesting to note that the addition of salt produced a smoother surface of the popped rice while rice popped without the addition of salt showed an uneven blistered surface (Hoke et al., 2005).\r\nStorage study on the basis of Sensory attributes. On the basis of popping sensory score, the best treatment of the variety JR-206 was subjected to storage study on 90 days in the interval of 30 day in three different type of packaging material i.e., polypropylene, Low density polyethylene and aluminum foil.\r\nIn polypropylene the color score found in the range from 5.74 to 8.70, flavor score found in the range from 5.66 to 7.75, texture score varied from 5.66 to 8.48, taste score varied from 5.46 to 8.73 and overall acceptability score was found in the range from 5.33 to 7.38 in the storage period up to 90 days.\r\nIn low density polyethylene color score was varied from 6.35 to 8.42, flavor score varied from 6.72 to 7.45, texture score varied from 5.71 to 8.63, taste score varied from 5.81 to 7.79 and overall acceptability score was varied from 6.65 to 7.78 in the storage period up to 90 days.\r\nIn aluminum foil color score was found in the range of 6.85 to 8.75 and the highest color score was found in aluminum foil in 0 days to 90 days, flavor score was found in the range of 7.59 to 8.84 and the highest flavor score was found in aluminum foil in 0 days to 90 days, texture score was found in the range of 6.74 to 8.85 and the highest texture score was found in aluminum foil in 0 days to 90 days, taste score varied from 6.67 to 8.89 and the highest taste score was found in aluminum foil in 0 days to 90 days and overall acceptability score was found in the range of 6.57 to 8.15 and the highest overall acceptability score was found in aluminum foil in 0 days to 90 days in the storage period up to 90 days.\r\nThe results showed that the highest color, flavor, texture, taste and overall acceptability score was found in aluminum foil in the storage period up to 90 days of stored popped rice. The overall acceptability of popped rice was significantly affected by different packaging materials and storage days. Popped rice variety was better in aluminum foil bags as compared to low density polyethylene and polypropylene bags during storage. This might be due to high absorption and permeability of atmospheric gasses involved in reduction of color and flavor. The similar finding was reported by Bunker et al. (2012). \r\nThe highest color, flavor, texture, taste and overall acceptability score was found in aluminum foil in the storage period up to 90 days.\r\n','Praveen Kumar Patle, Anubha Upadhyay, S.S. Shukla and G.K. Rana (2022). Evaluation of Sensory, Packaging and Storage Quality Attributes of different varieties of Paddy for Popped Rice. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 14(3): 753-756.'),(5357,'136','Identifying Restorers and Maintainers through Pollen and Spikelet Fertility Studies on Hybrid Rice (Oryza sativa L.)','T. Ramakrishna, L. Krishna, Y. Chandra Mohan3 V. Gouri Shankar and D. Saida Naik','127 Identifying Restorers and Maintainers through Pollen and Spikelet Fertility Studies on Hybrid Rice (Oryza sativa L.) T. Ramakrishna.pdf','',1,'A study was carried out to identify restorers and maintainers for use as parental lines in a hybridization programme. Twenty elite rice genotypes were crossed in a Line x Tester pattern with four CMS lines (CMS 23A, CMS 59A, CMS 64A and JMS 13A) in a Randomized block design with two replications to examine their maintainer or restorer response during Kharif-2018. Out of the 20 male genotypes studied for pollen and spikelet fertility analysis, 8 lines (MTU 1153, RNR 26015, RNR 28355, JGL 25960, MTU 1010, IET 27253, RNR 26085 and JAYA) were identified as restorers for the majority of CMS lines used, 6 lines as partial restores and 6 lines as partial maintainers. There are no maintainers identified in any of the lines. In heterosis breeding programmes, it has been suggested that stable germplasm with restorer behaviour be used, while those with maintainer behaviour be used to create new CMS lines through conversion. The newly discovered restorers in this study could be used as pollen parents in future hybrid rice breeding programme to develop promising rice hybrids with improved grain and cooking quality to combat malnutrition and suitable for local climatic conditions.','Oryza sativa, Testcrosses, CMS lines, Pollen fertility, Spikelet fertility, Restorers','In hybrid rice breeding, more emphasis should be placed on using well-known rice cultivars as parental lines in order to produce superior hybrids with improved grain quality. Despite the fact that no maintainers were discovered throughout the experiment, the restored lines that have been recognized can be employed as pollen parents to create new commercial hybrid types. Additionally, by pyramiding complementing features from multiple sources based on breeding objectives, a crossover programme can increase the genetic diversity of restorers and produce new restorers.','Introduction\r\nThe most significant food crop in the world is rice (Oryza sativa L.), whose consumption has continuously climbed from 474 million tonnes in 2015 to 504 million tonnes in 2020 and is projected to rise by around 650 million tonnes by 2050. Rice is known as the \"grain of life\" because it is the most important basic food in the world, providing more than 80 percent of the calories for nearly 2 billion people. Not only is it a fundamental requirement for life but also the most important grain in the human diet, providing 15% of the protein and 21% of the calories consumed globally by people per capita, in addition to being Asia\'s main source of carbohydrates (Veeresha et al., 2015). To fulfil the needs of a growing population while remaining self-sufficient, world\'s rice production level must be increased to 852 million tonnes by 2035. This is a challenging endeavour given the rise in the yield potential of high yielding cultivars and the declining natural resources. As the People\'s Republic of China has amply demonstrated, Rice hybrids are one of the feasibly and economically viable and easily adoptable genetic variations for increasing rice production. As a result of breeders\' ongoing efforts, rice breeding programmes have shifted to hybrid rice development, demonstrating the hybrid rice technology\'s ability to boost output and productivity.\r\nA major development in rice improvement has been the introduction of hybrid rice cultivars using a male sterility and fertility restoration mechanism. A trustworthy mechanism for restoring fertility and preventing male sterility in the cytoplasm is necessary for commercial heterosis to exist in rice. Cytoplasmic genetic male sterile lines that have been presented by different sources might not be well suited to a particular target region. For hybrid vigour to be used successfully in rice, locally produced cytoplasmic genetic male sterility and restorer lines are essential (Kumar et al., 1996). Identification of regionally appropriate maintainers and restorers that demonstrate full sterility and consistently high degrees of restoration of CMS lines would be tremendous utility in commercial hybrid if high combining ability is paired with restorative ability.\r\nPrior research (Parimala et al. 2019; Upendi et al. 2017) looked at rice test crosses to detect restorative and maintainer reactions and observed variable degrees of pollen and spikelet fertility %. The initial stage in three line heterosis breeding is to set up a test cross nursery to find restorers and maintainers (Priyanka et al., 2016). Male sterility would be a suitable strategy for commercialising heterosis in rice. It would be suitable to utilise a male sterility mechanism. Given the preceding, the current study sought to find the most efficient fertility restorers and maintainers.\r\nMATERIALS AND METHODS\r\nMaterials for the current study include 20 different male fertile genotypes, four CMS lines (CMS 23A, CMS 59A, and CMS 64A) and crosses produced using a L×T fashion. To achieve synchronous flowering and adequate crossed seed, parental lines were sown in stages. During Rabi 2017-18, using a 20 × 15 cm spacing, 28-day-old seedlings of CMS lines and male viable genotypes were transplanted in a crossing block at the Rice Research Centre in Rajendranagar, Hyderabad.\r\nA suggested set of procedures and need-based plant defence strategies were put into operation in order to grow a healthy crop. Newly developed panicles on male sterile lines were removed and potted into mud-filled plastic buckets before being brought to the crossing room. The panicles\' leaf sheaths were gently cut off. Additionally, the panicle\'s top and bottom florets were cut off. Florets that were scheduled to open the next day used for crossing. Each floret had its top third chopped off the day before and it was then wrapped in butter paper bags. Pollen from male parents was gathered at anthesis the next morning and sprinkled on CMS line panicles that were bagged and labelled. The crossed seeds were gathered once the seeds had fully developed. To assess the restorer / maintainer reaction, 80 test crosses that were created during Rabi 2017-18 were transplanted in 4 metre rows with a 20 x 15 cm spacing in Kharif 2018.\r\nEstimation of pollen fertility. Pollen fertility was assessed at the blooming stage by gathering 5–10 spikelets in a vial of 20% ethanol from 5 randomly chosen plants from each entry. Forceps were used to extract the anthers from the spikelets, which were then put on a glass slide with a 2 % iodine potassium iodide solution. To release the pollen grains, gently crushing the anthers with a needle. To determine the pollen fertility %, the slides were cleaned of dirt, covered with a cover slip and viewed under a microscope.\r\nPollen fertility (%) = \r\nEstimation of spikelet fertility. From five randomly chosen plants in each test, three panicles were cross-tagged and the panicles were harvested and threshed once they reached maturity. Using the following formula, each panicle\'s full and chaffy grains were counted individually in order to calculate spikelet fecundity.\r\nSpikelet fertility (%) = \r\nClassification of pollen parents. Based on the pollen and their spikelet fertility percentages, the pollen parents were divided into four groups.\r\nRESULTS AND DISCUSSIONS\r\nThe first step in three-line hybrid rice breeding is to establish a test cross nursery to identify restorers and maintainers. Restorers can help to develop good hybrids by serving as parental lines. The current study\'s findings indicated that the genotypes\' response to fertility restoration depends on their ancestry.\r\nThe pollen fertility percentage in crosses with CMS 23A ranged from 5.1 percent (IET 27258) to 96.05 percent (RNR 28363) and the spikelet fertility percentage ranged from 10.4 percent (CMS 23A × IET 27260) to 93.61 percent (CMS 23A × MTU 1010). With CMS 23A, nine lines displayed greater than 80% pollen fertility and ten lines displayed more than 75% spikelet fertility.\r\nThe pollen fertility percentage of hybrids with CMS 59A ranged from 12 percent (WGL 1054) to 92 percent (WGL 1063) and the spikelet fertility percentage ranged from 15.8 percent (IET 27260 x CMS 59A) to 93.09 percent (IET 27253 × CMS 59A). With CMS 59A, 7 lines demonstrated more than 80% pollen fertility and 10 lines demonstrated spikelet fertility of greater than 75%.\r\nThe pollen fertility percentage in crosses with CMS 64A ranged from 8.5 percent (WGL 1054) to 95.05 percent (RNR 28363) and the spikelet fertility percentage ranged from 10.5 percent (WGL 1054 × CMS 64A) to 83.23 percent (RNR 28355 × CMS 64A). With CMS 64A, 6 lines demonstrated pollen fertility of greater than 80% and 6 lines demonstrated more than 75% spikelet fertility.\r\nSpikelet fertility ranged from 10.2 percent (IET 26132 × JMS 13A) to 84 (MTU 1010 × JMS 13A) percent in hybrids with MS 13A, while pollen fertility ranged from 12 percent (WGL 1054 × JMS 13A) to 90 percent (WGL 1063 × JMS 13A). With JMS 13A, six lines demonstrated more than 80% pollen fertility and seven lines demonstrated more than 75% spikelet fertility. According to the results above, (Awad-Allah 2020; Pankaj Kumar et al., (2015) indicated that the genotypes\' responses to fertility restoration depend on the genetic background of CMS lines.\r\n \r\nThe pooled analysis reveals, the pollen fertility percentage ranged from 10.62 % (WGL 1054) to 88.07% (WGL 1063) and spikelet fertility percentage ranged from 16.05 % (WGL 1054) to 86.49 % (MTU 1010) with varying fertility restoration according to male parent (Mirzababapour et al., 2021). Eight lines that are considered restorers and have spikelet fertility rates of more than 75% include MTU 1153, RNR 26015, RNR 28355, JGL 25960, MTU 1010, IET 27253, RNR 26085 and JAYA. These results are according to (Singh et al., 2022; Parimala et al., 2019).\r\nEight lines from this research (MTU 1153, RNR 26015, RNR 28355, JGL 25960, MTU 1010, IET 27253, RNR 26085 and JAYA) have been identified as restorers for the majority of CMS lines employed, with more than 75% average spikelet fertility, out of the 20 male genotypes evaluated for pollen and fertility analysis. However, 6 lines had average spikelet fertility ranging from 50.1 to 75 percent and were classified as partial restores, whereas hybrids with 6 lines had average spikelet fertility between 0.1 and 50 % and were classified as partial maintainers. These results were supported by (Singh et al., 2022; Ramesh et al., 2018). There are no maintainers identified in the lines studied.\r\nOther researchers have reported similar findings (Mamdouh et al., 2022; Samuel et al., 2018; Rajendraprasad et al., 2017; Shalini et al., 2015; Ghosh et al., 2013; Krishnalatha et al., 2012). It is possible that the different nuclear cytoplasmic interactions between the testers and CMS lines, as well as the penetrance or expressivity of certain genes that varied with genotype or the presence of modifier genes, account for the genotype-specific differences in fertility restoration (Umadevi et al., 2010). Contrarily, adding a lot of legitimacy to such fertility restoration investigations through the use of several CMS lines in testcrosses (Hossain et al., 2010).\r\n','T. Ramakrishna, L. Krishna, Y. Chandra Mohan, V. Gouri Shankar and D. Saida Naik (2022). Identifying Restorers and Maintainers through Pollen and Spikelet Fertility Studies on Hybrid Rice (Oryza sativa L.). Biological Forum – An International Journal, 14(3): 757-760.'),(5358,'136','Assessment of Quality Parameters of Chemically Mutagenized Wheat Seeds','Nikita Aggarwal, Sudheer K. Pathak and Shama Parveen','128 Assessment of Quality Parameters of Chemically Mutagenized Wheat Seeds Sudheer K Pathak.pdf','',1,'Wheat being one of the most important staple foods globally plays an important role for food security in terms of cereal source of nutrients. Presently, with global population booming up and billions of people suffer micronutrient malnutrition and therefore improving seed quality traits through genomic assisted breeding or mutation breeding to create genetic variations of utmost importance. The present study was undertaken to evaluate the effect of mutagens Hydroxyl Amine (HA) and Sodium Azide (SA) on different seed quality parameters in two wheat genotypes i.e., MP-3382 and RVW-4106. An experiment was conducted to evaluate wheat varieties MP-3382 and RVW- 4106. Seeds were pre-soaked in distilled water for six hours and later treated with five different doses of Sodium Azide (0.2 % ,0.3% ,0.4% ,0.5% and 0.1%) and five different doses of Hydroxyl Amine (0.02%, 0.03%, 0.04%, 0.05% and 0.1%) including control during Rabi 2021- 22 (M1 generation) at Genetics and Plant Breeding Laboratory, ITM University Gwalior. The experiment was conducted in Completely Randomized Design with 4 replications and to determine mutagen sensitivity with regard to germination (%), root-shoot length (cm), seed vigor index -I, dry weight and seed vigor index-II under laboratory conditions on mutagenized seeds. It was observed that both the mutagens were significantly affected all the seed quality parameters and induced genetic variability.','Hydroxyl Amine, Mutagen sensitivity, Sodium Azide, Variability, Wheat','A general trend has been observed that mutagen HA is more effective than SA as there is trend of reduction in the magnitude of characters with increase in dose of SA, whereas, a bell shaped curve is clearly evident in HA where increase in dose from 0.2% increased the magnitude of character up to 0.4%. Further increase in the dose leads to decline in the magnitude of the characters. Hence, the optimum dose for HA which is most effective was found to be 0.4 %.','INTRODUCTION\r\nWheat (Triticum aestivum L.) is one of the major staple food crop feeding about 35 % of the world population. The global production of wheat is about 766 million tons and it is cultivated across nearly 216 million hectares in more than 125 countries (Sharma et al., 2021). The crop is self-pollinated and allohexaploid with chromosome number 2n =6x = 42 (Bonjean et al., 2001). Wheat is a rich source of complex carbohydrates (74-77%) and protein (11-15%) and poor source of sodium, amino acids and total fat (Dziki et al., 2021). The existing and projected high population growth rates would worsen the gap between wheat output and demand, adding to the country\'s limited food supplies. This situation emphasizes the importance of wheat breeding in increasing current productivity. Plant breeding is based on the notion of genetic variability. It could be developed by hybridization or mutations followed by selection (Addisu and Shumet 2015). Hybridization is tedious, time consuming, labour intensive and expensive nature of manual emasculation and pollination (Yahaya et al., 2020). Mutation breeding provides the advantage of being able to change specific qualities in otherwise acceptable varieties in a shorter amount of time by inserting some relevant variant. The Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations/International Atomic Energy Agency\'s Mutant Variety Database (FAO/IAEA-MVD data 2019) reports on 3,275 accessions from 225 species generated and freely disseminated by the FAO/IAEA. In crops, changes in the gene structure and sequence can be randomly caused by rupturing the DNA through physical and chemical mutagens (Viana et al., 2019). Nucleotide substitution causes random point mutation in plant material. The use of Sodium Azide and Hydroxyl Amine to induce mutants has been reported by number of workers (Weldemichael et al., 2021), (Ibukun et al., 2019) and (Kirtane et al., 2018). Keeping this in view, the present investigation was carried out to determine the effect of SA and HA on seed characteristics viz., germination percentage, shoot length, root length, seed vigour index-I, dry weight and seed vigour index-II. Different doses of HA and SA were also evaluated for vitality of the seeds.\r\nMATERIALS AND METHODS\r\nThe study was conducted during Rabi 2021-2022 at Genetics and Plant Breeding Laboratory, School of Agriculture, ITM University, Gwalior (M.P.).\r\nExperimental material: “MP-3382” Matures in 119 days, high yielding (5975 kg/ ha), bold seeded, multiple resistances and heat tolerant. Recommended for irrigated, timely sown conditions of M.P. \r\n“RVW-4106”: It matures in 115-120 days. Resistant to black and brown rust disease. Average yield is 5035 kg/ha. Recommended for late sown irrigated conditions of M.P.\r\nChemical Treatment: To begin with experiment, selected seeds were soaked in distilled water for 6 hours and the wet seeds were treated with different concentrations of HA and SA for six hours (Jeberson et al., 2020). The seeds were treated with 0.2%, 0.3%, 0.4%, 0.5% and 0.6% HA, whereas, 0.02%, 0.03%, 0.04%, 0.05% and 0.1% SA. The untreated seeds served as control.\r\nThe treated seeds were washed thoroughly in running water for two hours to terminate the reaction of chemical mutagen and to leach out the residual chemicals. We have total 11 treatments including control for each variety. The treatment details are given in table 1.\r\nObservations to be recorded: For the assessment of seed quality parameters, 100 seeds of each treatments and replication including control were sown in petridish cover by blotting paper and half filled with water. Each of the treatments were replicated four times. The petridish were kept in seed germinator at 25±1ºC temperature and relative humidity was 85 ± 1 %. Observations were recorded for six characters i.e., germination percentage, root length, shoot length, seed vigour index – I, dry weight and seed vigour index – II.\r\nStatistical analysis: Data were collected and subjected to Analysis of Variance by using OP STAT (O.P. Sheoran Programmer, Computer Section, CCS HAU and Hisar) and significant mean was separated using t-test (One factor analysis).\r\nRESULTS AND DISCUSSION\r\nAnalysis of Variance (ANOVA) revealed highly significant variation among the treatments for both the varieties for all six characters under study as shown in Table 2 and 3.\r\nThe observation on six characters viz., germination percentage, root length, shoot length, seed vigor index -1, dry weight and seed vigor index –II on two different varieties; MP-3382 and RVW-4106 has been analyzed for the inference of result discussed as under. The effect of different doses of mutagens SA and HA is depicted through Fig 2. The graph represents the effect of the mutagens on two varieties with four characters.\r\nFor the character Germination Percentage, maximum germination was found in MP-3382 for 0.4% HA (98%) which is more than control (95%). Least value of germination (83%) was found in RVW-4106 for 0.1% SA. The treatment V1T9 was observed to display maximum Root and Shoot length (11.31 cm and 11.20 cm) respectively. Least values of root and shoot length (3.26 cm and 2.85 cm) was observed in V2T6. Maximum Seed Vigor Index-I was again observed in same treatment V1T9 (2205.98) because the germination percentage as well as both root and shoot length was highest in this treatment as compared to control (1899.10) . The SVI of V1T9 was evaluated to be higher than 306 degrees. The character Dry Weight depends upon seedling length as more the seedling length more will be the weight therefore maximum dry weight was obtained in V1T9 because of maximum seedling length. The character SVI-II depends upon germination percentage and dry weight. Both the parameters displayed maximum magnitude for the treatment V1T9. Therefore, it is obvious to have maximum SVI-II (37.89) for the treatment T9.\r\nAs per the Table 4, it is clearly evident that the different doses of mutagens created a significant variability for the characters still no such dose is validated which may act as LD50. All the treatments were found to be sub vital in survivability.\r\nIn total, it was analyzed two categories of effect of mutagens. Increase in the magnitude and Decrease in the magnitude.\r\nAn increase in the values of all the seed parameters taken under study can be explained due to increased embryonic growth coupled with high rate of mitotic cell division. Similar pattern of mutagenic effect has been recorded by Sharma et al., (2015), Irfaq and Nawab (2001); Jain et al. (2015). The mutagen Sodium Azide displayed delayed or inhibition in all the characters which might be due to suppressed enzymatic activities, hormonal imbalance and slow down of physiological process necessary for seed germination .This result is in synchronization with Herwibawa et al. (2018) in chill pepper, Abu et al., (2019); Ibukun et al. (2019); Akinyosoye (2020) in maize and Julia et al. (2022) in Indian Mustard.\r\n','Nikita Aggarwal, Sudheer K. Pathak and Shama Parveen (2022). Assessment of Quality Parameters of Chemically Mutagenized Wheat Seeds. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 14(3): 761-765.'),(5359,'136','Response of Fodder Maize (Zea mays L.) to Urea and Nano Urea on Growth, Yield and Economics','M. Srivani, P. Satish, S.A. Hussain and K. Shailaja','129 Response of Fodder Maize (Zea mays L.) to Urea and Nano Urea on Growth, Yield and Economics Medipelly Srivani.pdf','',1,'In order to meet the increasing demand for supply of quality forage due to increasing pressure on agricultural land for food and cash crops, quality fodder production for sustainability on limited space and time could be achieved from ideal forage crops and best management practices. Hence there is a need for nitrogen management with increasing use efficiency. In this regard present investigation was set to study the response of fodder maize (Zea mays L.) to urea and nano urea on growth, yield and economics. The experiment was carried out in randomised block design with 6 treatments and 4 replications at College farm, College of Agriculture, Rajendranagar, Hyderabad, Telangana, in sandy loam soils during rabi 2021. The study revealed that soil application of urea @33 kg N ha-1 each at basal, 20 & 40 DAS (T2) recorded significantly at par with basal soil application of urea @33 kg N ha-1 + foliar spray of nano urea @3 ml l-1 each at 20 & 40 DAS with respect to growth and yield of fodder maize crop. 100 % RDN application through urea recorded higher with respect to economics over other treatments. Hence, nitrogen management through urea and also urea + nano urea foliar spray @3 ml l-1 might be the best combination among other foliar spray rates for attaining best use efficiency and sustainability.','Nano urea, fodder maize, urea, foliar spray, leaf to stem ratio, nitrogen','Based on the present investigation, it can be concluded that basal application of urea @33 kg N ha-1 + foliar spray of nano urea @3 ml l-1 each at 20 & 40 DAS could be the best nitrogen management option. However soil application of urea @33 kg N ha-1 each at basal, 20 & 40 DAS as 100% RDN application through urea recorded statistically at par with urea + nano urea foliar sprays @3 ml l-1 each at 20 & 40 DAS with respect to growth & yield of fodder maize. 100% RDN application through urea recorded higher gross returns, net returns and B: C ratio over other treatments.','INTRODUCTION\r\nFodder crops are the plant species that are cultivated and harvested for feeding livestock in the form of forage (cut green and fed fresh), where livestock is an important asset and livelihood option for people in rainfed areas of India. Better feeding could be achieved by ensuring the adequate supply of good quality forage from improved varieties and best management practices (BMPs). Fodder production depends on the cropping pattern, climate and socio-economic conditions of the region. Total area under fodder crops in India is 9.58 m. ha (Indiastat, 2020) on individual crop basis. Which is only 4.2 to 4.4% of the total cultivated area and currently a net deficiency of 35.6% green fodder, 10.95% dry fodder and 44% concentrate feed materials in the country (IGFRI Vision, 2050). There is hardly any scope of expansion due to increasing pressure on agricultural land for food and cash crops. The solution, therefore, lies in increasing quality fodder production on limited space and time as green fodder is considered as the rich and cheapest source of protein, vitamins, carbohydrates and minerals for livestock (Kumar et al., 2020). \r\nAmong the cultivated forage crops, maize is an ideal crop for fodder as well as silage on account of its high yield potential and nutritional profile. It has highest fodder production potential, per day productivity, wider adaptability, succulent nature, excellent fodder quality with high digestibility and palatability. Hence it can be fed at any stage of growth without any risk to animals as it is free from anti metabolites. It is one of the most adaptable emerging crops having wider adaptability under varied agro climatic conditions (Arya et al., 2015). Nitrogen is the most important limiting factor for plant growth and its application increases the nitrogen, crude protein content and metabolizable energy besides improving succulency, palatability and digestibility of fodder maize (Patel et al., 2007). \r\nApplied N through conventional fertilizers undergoes transformation processes. In order to improve the N use efficiency, several strategies have been suggested in the past few decades. Nano fertilizers are the important tools in agriculture to improve crop growth, yield and quality parameters, reduce wastage of applied fertilizers and cost of cultivation. Nano urea (Liquid) is a source of nitrogen, crucial towards proper crop growth and development. Typically, nitrogen content in a healthy plant is in the range of 1.5 to 4 %. Foliar application of Nano urea (Liquid) at critical crop growth stages effectively fulfills the nitrogen requirement and reflects higher crop productivity and quality in comparison to conventional urea. The present study was therefore, designed to analyze the response of fodder maize with urea and nano urea liquid on growth, yield and economics.\r\nMATERIALS AND METHODS\r\nThe present field experiment was carried out at College Farm, College of Agriculture, PJTSAU, Rajendranagar, Hyderabad, Telangana during rabi 2021 which is geographically situated at 17°19\'19.2\'\' N Latitude and 78°24\' 39.2\'\' E longitude and at an altitude of 542.3 m above mean sea level. Experimental location falls under Southern Telangana Agro Climatic Zone of Telangana. The soil was sandy loam in texture having pH 7.5, electrical conductivity 0.67 dS/m and organic carbon 0.44 % with available nitrogen (187 kg ha-1), phosphorus (64 kg ha-1) and potassium (334 kg ha-1). The total amount of rainfall received during the crop growth period was 2.59 mm in 2 rainy days. During crop growth period the average of weekly mean Tmax, Tmin, RH(morning), RH(evening) and evaporation recorded were 28.87°C, 16.07°C, 89.63 %, 52.87 % and 3.11 mm respectively. The experiment was laid out in a Randomized Block Design using six treatment combinations with four replications. In this experiment, Nitrogen was applied in three split doses with both forms of Urea and Nano urea liquid with different doses through soil and foliar application methods. P2O5 & K2O were applied basally through SSP and MOP sources respectively. The standard RDF (100%) dose is 100:40:30 NPK Kg ha-1. These six treatment combinations were laid out with four replications, among which nutrients 1/3rd dose of nitrogen (Urea), full dose of phosphorus and potassium were applied at the time of sowing. Remaining, 1/2 dose of nitrogen (soil application of urea and foliar spray of nano urea liquid) were applied each at 20 and 40 DAS respectively. \r\nThe other agronomic practices like irrigation, insect pests and weed control measures were done as per recommended practices of PJTSAU, Rajendranagar. All growth and yield parameters of fodder maize were recorded periodically on randomly selected and tagged plants. The plant samples were collected at crop harvest and analyzed for quality parameters following standard procedure. The data obtained from various parameters under study were analysed by the method of analysis of variance (ANOVA) as described by Gomez and Gomez (1984). The level of significance used in the “F” test was given at 5%.\r\nThe cost of cultivation and the gross returns were calculated using the green fodder yield of fodder maize and the market price of the produce at the time of marketing. The net returns per hectare were calculated by deducting the cost of cultivation per hectare from the gross returns per hectare. \r\nNet monetary returns = Gross monetary returns - Total cost of cultivation \r\nBenefit cost ratio was worked out for each treatment by using the formula given by Subba Reddy and Raghuram (1996). \r\nB:C= (Gross returns (₹/ha))/(Cost of cultivation (₹/ha))\r\nRESULTS AND DISCUSSION\r\nGrowth Parameters. The data pertaining to growth parameters viz., plant height, number of leaves plant-1 and stem diameter are presented in (Table 1). Highest plant height, number of leaves plant-1 and stem diameter (178 cm, 15.15 and 3.08 cm respectively) were recorded with soil application of urea @33 kg N ha-1 each at basal, 20 & 40 DAS (T2) which was statistically at par with basal soil application of urea @33 kg N ha-1 + foliar spray of nano urea @3 ml l-1 each at 20 & 40 DAS (T4) (164 cm, 14 and 2.86 cm respectively). T4 recorded at par with basal soil application of urea @33 kg N ha-1 + foliar spray of nano urea @3.5 ml l-1 each at 20 & 40 DAS (T5) (157 cm, 13.75 and 2.80 cm respectively). While lowest growth parameters are recorded with no nitrogen application (105 cm, 9.75 and 2.01 cm respectively). Growth parameters increased by 16-36%, 11-30% and 11-30% respectively with the influence nano urea foliar spray in combination with urea application over control.\r\nResults revealed that application of N through both sources (Urea and nano urea) either individually or in combination significantly increased growth parameters over control. Similar results were reported by Sumanta et al. (2022); Ajithkumar et al. (2021). The increase might be due to increased availability of nutrients for plant growth which may have increased chlorophyll formation, photosynthetic rate, dry matter production and thus resulted in improved overall growth of the plant. Increased plant height resulted in more nodes per plant which accommodated more leaves per plant. Again nitrogen helps in rapid growth and development of plants as they help in photosynthesis and various plant biochemical processes which respond towards growth (Jasim Iqbal et al., 2016). The middle nano urea foliar spray rates were in close agreement with the findings of Abdel Salam et al. (2018) in lettuce.\r\nLeaf Stem ratio. Leaf stem ratio of fodder maize influenced by urea and nano urea applications presented in (Table 1) reveals that among the nano urea foliar spray applications, basal soil application of urea @33 kg N ha-1 + foliar spray of nano urea @3 ml l-1 each at 20 & 40 DAS recorded (0.59) L: S ratio and was statistically at par with basal soil application of urea @33 kg N ha-1 + foliar spray of nano urea @3.5 ml l-1 each at 20 & 40 DAS (0.55) and significantly highest leaf: stem ratio was recorded with absolute control (0.73). Statistically lowest leaf: stem ratio (0.43) was recorded with soil application of urea @33 kg N ha-1 each at basal, 20 & 40 DAS. Lower leaf to stem ratio registered might be due to advancing in age of the crop from one stage to another stage, weight of stems increased more comparatively to weight of leaves. In comparison with urea to that of nano urea foliar sprays, maximum weight of stem was registered in plants fertilized with 100% urea application (T2) which resulted in lower leaf to stem ratio. It ranged from 0.43 to 0.73. Similar findings were reported by Tiwana et al. (2005) in fodder pearl millet. \r\nYield. Perusal of yield data presented in (Table 1) revealed that green fodder yield and dry fodder yield were significantly influenced by urea and nano urea applications. Soil application of urea @33 kg N ha-1 each at basal, 20 & 40 DAS (T2) recorded green and dry fodder yield (347 and 90.61 q ha-1 respectively) and was significantly similar with basal soil application of urea @33 kg N ha-1 + foliar spray of nano urea @3 ml l-1 each at 20 & 40 DAS (T4) (322 and 82.59 q ha-1 respectively). (T4) recorded on par yield with basal soil application of urea @33 kg N ha-1 + foliar spray of nano urea @3.5 ml l-1 each at 20 & 40 DAS (T5) (308 and 76.55 q ha-1 respectively). While significantly lowest yield was recorded with no nitrogen (224 and 35.74 q ha-1 respectively). Yield viz., green and dry fodder yield increased by 11-30% and 37-57% with the influence of urea in combination with nano urea foliar sprays over absolute control respectively. This may be attributed that nitrogen is an essential constituent of plant tissue and is involved in cell division and cell elongation which reflected its beneficial effect on the growth characters viz., plant height, number of leaves per plant and stem diameter and yielding higher green and dry fodder. Almost similar findings were reported by Rajesh et al. (2021) and Abdel-Aziz et al. (2018). The middle nano urea foliar spray rates were in close agreement with the findings of Abdel-Salam et al. (2018) in lettuce. \r\nEconomics. On perusal of data (Table 2) gross returns and net returns influenced by urea and nano urea applications in fodder maize revealed that higher relative economics were realized with application of 100% RDN through soil application of urea @33 kg N ha-1 each at basal, 20 & 40 DAS (T2) (69400 and 21900 Rs ha-1 respectively). The next best treatment was T4 (basal soil application of urea @33 kg N ha-1 + foliar spray of nano urea @3 ml l-1 each at 20 & 40 DAS) (64100 and 14800 Rs ha-1 respectively) and the lowest were realized with T1 (Absolute control) (44700 and 1000 Rs ha-1 respectively). Gross returns increased by 8- 28% and 36% with 100 % RDN application through urea over urea in combination with nano urea foliar sprays and absolute control respectively and increased by 11-30% with the influence of urea in combination with nano urea foliar sprays over absolute control. \r\nHigher level of nitrogen application which might be owing to better nitrogen use efficiency increased green fodder yield resulting in higher gross returns and net returns. Similar results were also reported by Kumar et al. (2020b). The data on B: C ratio influenced by urea and nano urea applications in fodder maize presented in (Table 2) revealed that highest benefit-cost ratio was recorded with soil application of urea @33 kg N ha-1 each at basal, 20 & 40 DAS (T2) (1.46), followed by T4 (basal soil application of urea @33 kg N ha-1 + foliar spray of nano urea @3 ml l-1 each at 20 & 40 DAS) (1.30) and the lowest B: C ratio was realized with T1 (Absolute control) (1.02).\r\nB: C ratio increased by 1-22% with urea in combination with nano urea foliar spray over absolute control. Higher green fodder yield and net returns obtained with T2 might be responsible for higher benefit-cost ratio. The present findings confirm with that of Ajithkumar et al. (2021).\r\n','M. Srivani, P. Satish, S.A. Hussain and K. Shailaja (2022). Response of Fodder Maize (Zea mays L.) to Urea and Nano Urea on Growth, Yield and Economics. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 14(3): 766-769.'),(5360,'136','Performance of Pre-kharif Maize under different Sowing Windows and Inter-Cropping with Green Gram','Kousik Nandi, Subhendu Bandyopadhyay, Abhijit Nandi, Soumya Saha and Tarun Paul','130 Performance of Pre-kharif Maize under different Sowing Windows and Inter-Cropping with Green Gram Trisha Sinha.pdf','',1,'A field experiment was conducted at the Research Farm of Uttar Banga Krishi Viswavidyalaya, Pundibari, West Bengal, India during the pre-kharif season i.e. 3rd week of January to 2nd week of June for the year 2017 and 2018in order to study the performance of maize under different sowing dates and spatial arrangements with green gram. The experiment was laid out in split plot design having five main-plot treatments as sowing dates i.e. 17th January (3rd meteorological week), 24th January (4th meteorological week), 31st January (5th meteorological week), 7th February (6th meteorological week) and 14th February (7th meteorological week); and three sub-plot treatments (cropping systems) i.e. sole maize, maize + green gram (1:1) and maize + green gram (1:2) with three replications. Results from the experiment revealed that, different sowing dates were determining factors for growth attributes such as plant height, dry matter accumulation and leaf area index. Sole maize crop recorded the highest value of dry matter accumulation at 30 and 50 DAS when sown on February 14th, while 5th meteorological week i.e. 31st January-sown sole maize crop accumulated its highest dry matter at 70 DAS, 90 DAS and at harvest. February 7th planted maize recorded higher value of cob length, number of seeds row-1, grain weight cob-1and grain yield for both the years. ','Maize, inter-cropping, green gram, sowing date','In consideration with the results obtained from the two experimental years, it is suggested that the sowing for spring maize should be conducted at 6th meteorological week i.e. around 7th February. Drawing conclusion on the adaptability of the cropping systems requires further analysis on different cropping system parameters which were out of the focus area and objective of this present article.','INTRODUCTION\r\nMaize (Zea mays L.) is one of the most significantly emerging, multifaceted crops with spacious adaptability to conglomerate agro-climatic conditions and to grow under adverse climatic conditions and ecologies (Ramachandiran and Pazhanivelan 2016). It is successfully grown from 500 m to more than 3000 m above mean sea level under a wide range of moisture level i.e. from irrigated to semi-arid conditions. Globally, it has obtained commanding role in the farming sector and in the macro-economy of Asia. Maize is known as ‘Queen of cereals’ for its highest yield potential among the cereals. This crop also has the highest potential of per day carbohydrate productivity. Maize stands third among important food crops of India after rice and wheat. In India, the crop is cultivated in an average area of 9.21 million ha with an average production and productivity of 25.1million tones and 2727 kg ha-1 respectively during the time span of 2013-14 to 2017-18 (DoES, 2020). The projected demand of maize is 45 million tonnes to meet its requirement for human consumption, pharma industry, and supply of feed and fodder for cattle, poultry and piggery by 2030 (Kumar et al., 2013). Greengram (Vigna radiate L.) is an important pulse crop that contains high quality protein and satisfactory amounts of minerals and vitamins. It has the potential to endow on a large scale to the pulse production in India. Greengram being a short stature legume crop with short duration and fast growing in nature can find place in many intercropping systems. One or two rows of green gram can profitably be raised between two rows of maize. Considering the ever-increasing demand for pulses, the country\'s pulse production needs to be uplifted with concerted efforts. This can be achieved either by expansion of more area under pulses or by enhancing the productivity per unit area or by intercropping. Efficient practice to exploit the available inter-row space which gets occupied by weed in conventional method also enhances the production per unit area and improves the fertility of soil for successive crop production. Moreover, there exists least chance of total crop loss by biotic/abiotic factors.\r\nRecently, the area of rabi maize in northern districts of West Bengal including Cooch Behar has increased in a significant manner and rice-maize has become a very popular cropping system in this Teraiagro-climatic zone. The time of sowing of maize is an important and decisive factor having direct bearing on weather condition. It governs the crop’s phenological development and total biomass production along with efficient conversion of biomass into economic yield. Field experiment by Singh et al. (1990) proved the growing degree day (GDD) requirement for maize cultivars in each growth phase is differentand also found high variations in GDD with different sowing dates which principally depend upon the maximum and minimum temperature of the crop-growing period. Maize sowing under late condition hastened development from seedling emergence to silking stage, while delayed sowing resulted in increased and decreased crop growth rate (CGR) respectively during the vegetative and post-anthesis stages (Cirilo and Andrade, 1994). Sowing of maize before and beyond the optimum date of planting resulted in reduction in leaf area index (LAI), leaf area duration (LAD) and total dry matter (Swanson and Wilhelm, 1996). Plants sown on earlier condition had an advantage with respect to plant height, LAI and dry matter accumulation over the delayed planting. However, the vegetative phase in case of late sowing condition was shortened by 6 days (Lauer, 2003).Delayed planting at early June decreased the number of days after planting to grain maturation by 9 days with respect to sowing at early May (Thomison et al. 2002). Planting date has been most crucial factor for significant losses in maize production due to extreme variations in temperatures during growth period from sowing to harvesting, most particularly at anthesis stage (Nielson et al., 2002). Considering the information it is to suggest that different dates of sowing with specific interval may generate sufficient information and clear understanding to find out the most suitable time of sowing for maize in pre-kharif season.\r\nMATERIALS AND METHODS\r\nExperimental site. The study was conducted in the instructional farm (26°19\'86\"N, 89°23\'53\"E) of Uttar Banga Krishi Viswavidyalaya, Pundibari, Cooch Behar, West Bengal in 2017 and 2018 during the pre-kharif orlate rabi season (Mid-January to mid-June). The location is situated in the eastern part of India with the elevation of 43 meters above mean sea level. The soil was sandy-loam in nature with the sand, silt and clay contents of 63.4% 20.4% slit and 17.2% respectively. The initial soil (0-20cm depth) recorded 162.6 and 155.4 kg of available Nha-1(determined by Kjeldahl method), 10.7 and 12.2 kg of available Pha-1 (determined by Bray\'s No. I Method), and 84.3and 78.9 kg of available Kha-1 (determined by Flame photometer method) during the year 2017 and 2018respectively. The study area is characterized with sub-tropical humid climate with prolonged winter season. The average rainfall of this zone varies between 2100 and 3300 mm, while it has the temperature ranges from the minimum of 7-8 °C to the maximum of 24-33.2°C. \r\nTreatment details. Sowing was performed in seven days interval starting from mid-January to mid-February for both the year in such a way that latest and earliest possible dates for maize and green gram sowing were included in the tested site. The experiment was laid out in split plot design having five main-plot treatments as sowing dates i.e. 17 January (3rd meteorological week),24 January(4th meteorological week),31 (January 5th meteorological week),7 February(6th meteorological week) and7 February(7th meteorological week); and three sub-plot treatments i.e. sole maize, maize+ green gram (1:1) and maize+ green gram (1:2)with three replications. Maize variety ‘DHM 117’ and green gram variety ‘Pusa Baisakhi’ was taken for the experiment. Individual plot size of 4 m ×3 m was maintained in the trial.\r\nStatistical analysis. All the data obtained from the experiment conducted under split plot design were statistically analyzed using the ‘F-test’ as per the procedure given by Gomez and Gomez (1984). Critical difference values at P=0.05 were used to determine the significance of difference between treatment means.\r\nRESULTS AND DISCUSSION\r\nPlant growth attributes\r\nPlant height. Maize sown on 7th and 14th February was recorded with greater plant height at all the stages of growth compared to the previously sown plants (Table 1). However, difference in plant height at maturity was very narrow among maize plants sown on different dates. Among the cropping system sole maize recorded significantly highest plant at all the dates of growth stages. Maize + green gram (1:2) recorded significantly lowest plant height irrespective of the growth stages. These results are in accordance with the findings of Singh (2005).\r\nDry matter accumulation. February 14 sown maize recorded significantly highest value of dry matter at 30 and 50 DAS whereas, 31st January sown maize accumulated higher dry matter at 70 DAS, 90 DAS and at harvest (Table 2). The reason behind the lower dry matter accumulation for the early sown maize in all the dates of observations recorded might be due to lower night temperature which affected leaf production, cell division and cell enlargement. Among the cropping systems, sole maize produced highest dry matter followed by maize + green gram (1:1) and maize + green gram (1:2) at different stages of growth. \r\nLeaf area index. Leaf area index (LAI) increased progressively with the growth of the plants and found maximum at 90 days after sowing after which it declined towards maturity due to senescence of lower leaf. At maximum LAI stage, 14th February planted maize recorded significantly highest LAI value over 17th January sown maize, however, other sowing dates were found with statistically similar LAI value with 14th February sown maize. Sole maize was found to best in terms of recorded LAI followed by the cropping system of maize + green gram (1:1) and maize+ green gram (1:2) irrespective of the growth stages and year of experimentation. This might be due to favourable ecological condition formed due to lesser competition for space, nutrient, soil moisture and light. These results are in conformity with the findings of Dhingra et al. (1991).\r\nThe unfavourable weather condition i.e. lower day and night temperatures during the initial growth stages might be responsible for reduced growth attributes in early sown maize crops. Superior growth of sole maize was due to lesser competition for space, light, water and nutrients than in the intercropping systems. Similar findings were also scrutinized by Swanson and Wilhelm (1996); Irilo and Andrade (1994).\r\nYield attributing characters \r\nCob length and cob girth. February 7th sown maize for both the years 2017 and 2018 produced longest cob (16.33 and 14.95 cm respectively) which was statistically at par with February 14th sown maize (15.47 and 14.04 cm respectively) and January 24th sown maize (15.48 and 13.95 cm respectively) as represented in the Table 4. The lowest recorded lowest cob length was recorded for maize sown on January 17th which was 13.97 cm and 14.19 cm for2017 and 2018 respectively. This might be due to the unsuitable weather condition prevailing during initial growth stages. Liu et al. (2009) also reported similar trend of result. Among the three cropping systems, sole maize was recorded with the highest cob length of 16.13 and 14.83 cm respectively for 2017 and 2018, followed by the cob length of 14.97 and 13.47 cm for 2017 and 2018 under maize + green gram (1:1) cropping system. Cob girth was found to be significantly superior for maize sown on 14th February to other planting dates. \r\nNumber of seeds row-1 and number of seed rows cob-1 of maize. February 7th sown maize was recorded with significantly higher number of seeds row-1 than 17th January planted maize, however, number of seed rows cob-1 was found highest for the 31st January planted maize which was statistically at par with February 7th sown maize (Table 4). Sowing maize on 17th January was recorded with significantly lowest number of seeds row-1 and number of seed rows cob-1for both the years of experimentation which might be due to affected plant growth and development and also reduced synthesis and translocation of photosynthates under lower day and night temperature and reduced solar light intensity particularly during early stages of crop growth. Similar findings were also scrutinized by Jasemi et al. (2013). Among the cropping systems, sole maize was observed with higher values of number of seeds row-1 (38.0 and 36.6 for the year 2017 and 2018, receptively). The number of seed rows cob-1 of 16.53 and 16.14 recorded in 2017 and 2018 for sole maize was also highest followed by maize + green gram (1:1) and maize + green gram (1:2). These results confirm the findings of Padhi (2001).\r\nTest weight, total seeds cob-1, cob weight, grain weight cob-1 and shelling percentage. February 14th sown maize recorded highest value of test weight, though test weight obtained with other dates of sowing was statically at par (Table 5). The highest test weight of 248.5 g and 248.20 g (respectively for the year 2017 and 2018) was recorded under the cropping system of sole maize followed by maize + green gram (1:1) and maize + green gram (1:2). Similar trends were also registered by Reddy and Bheemaiah (1991).The cob weight of maize in different sowing dates and cropping systems varied significantly for both the seasons as represented in the Table 5. Sowing on 7th February was resulted in highest cob weight of 184.0 g and 179.8 g which was statistically at par with the sowing on 31st January and 14th February. Sole maize obtained the cob weight of 184.7 g and 179.2 g in 2017 and 2018 respectively which was the highest and also statistically different from maize + green gram (1:2) and maize + green gram (1: 1) in both the seasons. Similar results were also reported by Sarkar and Shit (1990). The differences in the grain weight cob-1of maize under different sowing dates and cropping systems observed for both the seasons have been presented in the Table 5. Maize sown on February 7th obtained the highest grain weight cob-1of 152.9 g and 150.3 g (for the year 2017 and 2018 respectively) which was statistically at par with the sowing dates of 31st January and 14th February for both the years. Among the cropping systems, sole maize was the best performer in terms of recorded grain weight cob-1 which was 156.6 g and 151.7 g in 2017 and 2018 respectively. Data regarding the shelling percentage were found statistically non-significant with varied sowing dates for both the seasons (2017 and 2018). Recorded shelling percentage of 84.6 in the first season i.e. 2017 for the cropping system of sole maize was at par with two other intercropping systems but for the second season i.e. 2018 sole maize recorded shelling percentage of 84.5 which was significantly higher than the rest two cropping systems.\r\nYield and production efficiency. Grain yield of maize varied significantly under different dates of sowing and cropping systems as to be found from the Table 6. February 7th sowing recorded the highest grain yield viz. 9.61 t ha-1 and 9.32 tha-1 for maize which was significantly superior to other dates of sowing in both the years except January 31st sowing in which maize obtained the grain yield of 9.40 t ha-1 and 8.95 t ha-1 (for 2017 and 2018 respectively). In the contrary, sowing performed on 17th January let the maize obtain the lowest grain yield which was 7.65 t ha-1 and 7.31 t ha-1 for the year 2017 and 2018 respectively. About more than 25% increment in grain yield of maize was observed when maize was sown on February 7th than that of January 17th for both the experimental years. The highest grain yield of 9.54 t ha-1 in 2017 and 9.12 t ha-1 in 2018 was obtained by maize crop when sown alone followed by the cropping system of maize + green gram (1: 2) that recorded the maize grain yield of 8.53 t ha-1and 8.43 t ha-1 for 2017 and 2018 respectively. Lower grain yield might be due to the occurrence of rainfall during flowering stages of the crop which might be resulted into reduced pollination in the second season. The result was conformity with the Mandal et al. (2014).\r\nThe stover yield recorded in different sowing dates was also found to be significantly affected. The highest stover yield (12.97 t ha-1 and 13.07 t ha-1 for 2017 and 2018 respectively) was recorded in 6thmeteorological week which was statistically at par with that of 5th meteorological week (13.23 tha-1 and 12.63 t ha-1 for 2017 and 2018 respectively). Sole maize was again the top performer in terms of obtainment of stover yield also (13.78 t ha-1 and 13.12 t ha-1 respectively for the experimental year 2017 and 2018). Next to it, maize recorded the stover yield of 11.94 t ha-1and 11.65 t ha-1 for the first and second season respectively under the cropping system of maize + green gram (1: 2). These results were in conformity with the finding by Mandal et al. (2014).\r\nThe production efficiency of maize in different sowing dates and cropping systems was evaluated by harvest index (HI) and per-day grain production. The harvest index of maize was statistically in different among each other when different sowing dates were compared. Sowing on February 7th resulted in the obtainment of the highest harvest index for maize (42.68 and 41.95 respectively in 2017 and 2018) followed by the sowing on 31st January that recorded the HI of 41.82 and 41.91 in the first and second season, respectively. Harvest index was found to be lowest i.e. 39.99 and 39.92 under the sowing operation on 3rd meteorological for the experimental year 2017 and 2018 respectively. In terms of harvest index too, sole maize recorded its highest values viz., 41.34 and 43.12 (for 2017 and 2018 respectively) followed by the cropping system of maize + green gram (1: 2) that recorded the respective HI of 41.90 and 42.28 in 2017 and 2018. Similar findings as obtained by Patra et al. (1999) confirmed these present experimental results. Sowing of maize on February 7th was found to be superior in terms of per-day grain production to almost all the sowing dates (Fig. 2). Growing sole maize was resulted in recording of highest values of per-day production among the cropping systems with all sowing dates except in February 14th sowing during the first year i.e. 2017. Maize requires accumulating optimum growing degree days (GDD) for the production of maximum grain yield and biological yield (Dahmardeh, 2012). Sowing maize after 31st January facilitated the crop to acquire optimum GDD due to congenial day and night temperatures which adversely affected the crops sown earlier.','Kousik Nandi, Subhendu Bandyopadhyay, Abhijit Nandi, Soumya Saha and Tarun Paul (2022). Performance of Pre-Kharif Maize under Different Sowing Windows and Inter-Cropping with Green Gram. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 14(3): 770-776.'),(5361,'136','Inheritance Studies of Yellow Rust Resistance in Bread Wheat Genotypes for Yr5 gene','Kritika Singh, H.K. Chaudhary, NV Manoj and Shubham Verma','131 Inheritance Studies of Yellow Rust Resistance in Bread Wheat Genotypes for Yr5 gene Kritika Singh.pdf','',1,'Yellow rust of wheat, caused by Puccinia striiformis Westend. f.sp. tritici poses a serious threat to quality and yield potential in cooler regions. The economic and environment friendly strategy to combat this disease is deployment of resistance genes. The aim of the study was to study the inheritance pattern of Yr5 gene and test genetic linkage of marker STS 7/STS 8 in F2 segregating population derived from crosses between yellow rust susceptible parents HS 240 & DH 40 and resistant parent Avocet-Yr5. Two sets of F2 segregating population derived from crosses HS 240 × Avocet-Yr5 and DH 40 × Avocet-Yr5 were evaluated phenotypically for their reaction to yellow rust disease under controlled conditions. The chi square analysis showed that resistance in segregating populations of two crosses was governed by single dominant gene and marker STS 7/STS can be utilized efficiently for selection of Yr5 gene in the breeding material.','Wheat, yellow rust, Puccinia striiformis Westend f.sp. tritici, Yr5 gene, STS7/STS8','R genes responsible for imparting genetic resistance to wheat yellow rust have proven to be ineffective after deployment. However, some genes like Yr5 shows potential to combat the havoc caused by the Pst races. Inheritance pattern studies revealed that resistance in wheat genotypes genotypes is governed by the single resistance gene i.e.Yr5. STS marker STS7/STS8 used in the study can identify individual gene and its co-segregation with the target gene indicate its possible use in recombining R genes as required.','INTRODUCTION\r\nWheat (Triticum aestivum L. em Thell) is an important cereal crop grown globally. Wheat production is a key component in sustaining global food security. Among various threats to wheat production, rust poses a serious problem to wheat cultivation worldwide. There are several evidences of increased yellow rust epidemics around the world which may be due to changing climatic conditions and increased adaptation of pathogen races. Yellow rust also known as stripe rust, caused by Puccinia striiformis Westend f.sp. tritici Eriks and Henn. (Pst), is an economically important foliar disease of wheat crop. In the past two decades, there has been global emergence of aggressive and genetically diverse pathogen populations which are adapted to warmer temperatures (Milus et al., 2009; Hubbard et al., 2015; Hovmøller et al., 2016). In India, yellow rust has become economically important in the recent past especially in cooler areas and is a threat in 10 mha area under Northern parts of India (Bhardwaj et al., 2019). Virulence on major seedling resistance genes including Yr2, Yr6, Yr9, Yr11, Yr12, Yr17, Yr24 and Yr27 has been reported (Wellings and McIntosh 1990; Nsabiyera et al., 2018; Gangwar et al., 2016). Only a few resistance genes are still effective against Pst races which urges the demand to develop durable resistant varieties. Deployment of resistant genes effectively and economically is important to reduce fungicide use and minimize crop losses. Yellow rust resistance genes have been identified progressively in wheat bringing the total number of catalogued genes to 70. Among all the R genes which are still effective against Pst races, Yr5 is dominant seedling- expressed yellow rust R- gene originally identified in T. aestivum subsp. spelta var. album accession (Macer, 1963) and later to be shown in a number of spelta wheats (Kema, 1992). The gene is located on the long arm of chromosome 2B (Law, 1976). This gene can be used effectively in varieties grown in north western Himalayas in India where yellow rust poses havoc to wheat cultivation. In the present study, the inheritance pattern of Yr5 gene was studied in the cross of Avocet-Yr5 with the agronomically superior variety HS 240 and a doubled haploid genotype DH 40 which are suitable for cultivation in NWH zone but susceptible to yellow rust disease.\r\nMATERIAL AND METHODS\r\nThe plant material for the study comprised of wheat genotypes HS 240 (spring wheat variety), DH 40 (a doubled haploid genotype developed by Imperata cylindrica- mediated doubled haploidy breeding technique (Chaudhary et al., 2005), and Avocet-Yr5 (resistant source for Yr5 gene). DH 40 and HS240 were hybridized with Avocet-Yr5 Two sets of F2 population derived from crosses, HS 240 × Avocet-Yr5 and DH 40 × Avocet-Yr5 were tested for rust resistance and linkage with marker. The molecular marker used for the amplification was STS7/STS8 (Chen et al., 2003) (Table 1, Table 2).\r\nA. Seedling resistance test\r\nSeedling tests were conducted under controlled environment conditions. The parents and segregating generation were tested with pathotype110S119. Fully extended primary leaves were inoculated with the uredospore suspension. The seedlings were transferred to humid glass chamber for 48 hours. The inoculated seedlings were then transferred to glass house at about 15° C. The infection types were recorded 20 days after inoculation and were classified as resistant and susceptible according to Nayar et al. (1997). After phenotypic evaluation, F2 populations were screened for analysis of marker gene association and inheritance of Yr5 gene.\r\nB. DNA isolation and PCR amplification\r\nGenomic DNA was extracted from leaf samples as per CTAB method (Murray and Thompson 1980). The PCR reaction was performed in a total volume of 15µl, containing 100ng template DNA, 1× PCR Buffer, 2.5 mM MgCl2, 0.2MM dNTP, 0.75U Taq DNA polymerase and 0.3µM of each primer. STS marker STS7/STS8 was used for detection of Yr5 gene (Chen et al., 2003). Amplification were performed in thermal Cycler at 94°C for 4 minutes followed by 40 cycles at 94°C for 45 seconds, 45°C for 45 seconds and 72°C for 60 seconds. A final elongation was performed at 72°C for 10 minutes. PCR products were analyzed by electrophoresis using 3% high resolution agarose gel melting in 1× TAE followed by staining with ethidium bromide and visualized with UV light. \r\nC. Data Analysis\r\nChi square analysis was applied to check the validity of expected ratios to that of observed ratio in the segregating generation to test goodness of fit and investigate the inheritance of stripe rust resistance gene & molecular marker.\r\nRESULTS AND DISCUSSION\r\nIn F2 population derived from cross HS 240 × Avocet-Yr5, sixty three individuals exhibited resistant response and twenty four showed susceptible reaction. The segregation pattern in F2 population developed from cross DH 40 × Avocet-Yr5 revealed that sixty nine plants were resistant and twenty nine were susceptible to yellow rust (Table 3). The segregation ratio exhibited goodness of fit to 3:1 ratio in both the crosses. The segregation pattern was analogous to the ratio exhibited by single dominant gene. DNA samples from F2 plants were analyzed to determine linkage between STS marker and resistant gene Yr5. STS marker STS7/STS8 showed polymorphism in the parental genotypes. This marker was further used to analyze segregating ratio in F2 individuals. The PCR amplification showed bands of 478bp in resistant homozygous individuals, 472bp in susceptible homozygous individuals and both the bands in heterozygous genotypes (Fig. 1). The resistant gene Yr5 followed a segregation ratio of 1:3:1 with marker STS7/STS8 in segregating F2 population of crosses HS 240 × Avocet-Yr5 and DH 40 × Avocet-Yr5. These results suggested that the yellow rust resistance to Pst strain is determined by a single dominant gene Yr5. There was no recombination between molecular marker and Yr5 gene, indicating complete linkage between the two.\r\n','Kritika Singh, H.K. Chaudhary, N.V. Manoj and Shubham Verma (2022). Inheritance Studies of Yellow Rust Resistance in Bread Wheat Genotypes for Yr5 gene. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 14(3): 777-779.'),(5362,'134','Entrepreneurial Behaviour of Vegetable Growers in Odisha','Bijayalaxmi Nayak and Pradip Kumar Banerjee','101 Entrepreneurial Behaviour of Vegetable Growers in Odisha Bijayalaxmi Nayak.pdf','',1,'In terms of the variety of rural vocations, India has enormous potential for the development of entrepreneurship. One of the promising areas for Indian business development is the production of vegetables. In rural India, industries based on vegetables are becoming significant drivers of economic growth. Growing evidence suggests that the enterprise of producing vegetables could contribute more positively to rural welfare and poverty reduction by creating jobs at the farm level. Keeping this in view the present study was carried out in Cuttack and Koraput district of Odisha State. An ex-post facto design of social research was used. A sample of 200 vegetable growers as respondents were drawn and information obtained from them was considered for tabulation and analysis of data. Findings revealed that majority of the vegetable growers had medium level in all entrepreneurial traits/attributes namely innovativeness, risk orientation, economic motivation, decision making ability, leadership ability, scientific orientation, achievement motivation, self confidence, utilization of available assistance, credit orientation and management orientation. The overall entrepreneurial behavior was found to be of medium level. Though the present paper attempts to examine the entrepreneurial behaviour of vegetable growers of Odisha, the study was confined to Cuttack and Koraput districts of Odisha. Hence, generalization on this could be restricted to other areas with similar condition. The findings of the study were based on verbal expression of the respondents, therefore the findings were conditioned by the extent of reliable and valid information provided by those selected for the purpose of investigation.','Entrepreneurial behaviour, Entrepreneurial attributes, Vegetable growers, Innovativeness','The study concluded that majority of the respondents possessed medium level of entrepreneurial behaviour with respect to all the components of entrepreneurial behaviour. It is an indication of the progressiveness of the farmers. Thus, it calls for intensification of efforts and policy support to the farmers by field extension workers of the development departments. Due to time & resource constraints the result of the study was having regional implication with respect to area and sample size. Based on this, extensive studies on the similar aspect can be conducted in future for better implication. The study has implication for the planners and policy makers specially related to increase in production and productivity of seasonal vegetables in a better organized manner considering the commercial impact and crop diversification aspect in future. Specific vegetable cultivation zones can be developed in the state based on various resource availability.','INTRODUCTION\r\nSince vegetables are a staple of the human diet, a meal without one is considered insufficient in every region of the world. After China, India is the second-largest vegetable producer in the world. These make around 3% of the total agricultural area and are grown on about 6 million hectares. Despite the need for vegetables is 300g/day/person as advised by a nutritionist, we can only satisfy roughly 1/9th of that need. Vegetables from other countries are introduced in large quantities in India. In order to face the challenge of providing enough food to India\'s expanding population, a planned development in the sector of vegetable production would not only increase the nutritional requirements for the general public but also the labor-intensive nature of vegetable growing can also greatly expand employment opportunities (Jena and Parida 2016).\r\nIn India, agriculture is very significant because it not only helps to feed the rural population but also significantly boosts the country\'s economy. The fact that agriculture employs and sustains over 65% of India\'s people makes it important as well. Entrepreneurship and rural development are more closely related than ever. Any country\'s economic growth is largely dependent on the crucial role that entrepreneurs play in society. In developing nations like India, where there are many chances for applying innovations to harness the resources available, notably in the sector of agriculture, the role performed by such entrepreneurs is crucial.\r\nWe can find people with the necessary entrepreneurial skill in all facets of the population in our nation, where there are abundant human resources. The Indian government created a distinct ministry for micro, small, and medium-sized businesses to encourage entrepreneurship in rural and semi-urban areas. Changes in an entrepreneur\'s knowledge, ability, and attitude are referred to as entrepreneurial behaviour. The first step in bringing about change is understanding how an individual will react to it. In order to take action to foster entrepreneurial qualities and promote entrepreneurship, it is important to understand a person\'s unique characteristics. This is why studying entrepreneurial behaviour is important in order to maintain a healthy society, entrepreneurship serves as a means of enhancing the standard of living for people, families, and communities.\r\nTo enhance the standard of extension services provided by institutional and noninstitutional bodies, it is crucial to comprehend such entrepreneurial behaviour. Vegetable farming requires a lot of capital and is risky, thus in order to manage the business successfully, a farmer needs the ability to take risks, be original, inventive, and resourceful. These traits provide them the ability to choose and accept the adoption of suitable scientific farming techniques. Individual, situational, psychological, social, and experiential aspects all affect how entrepreneurs behave (Rao, 1985).\r\nOdisha is blessed with a wide range of agro-climatic conditions that are ideal for the growth of horticulture crops. Farmers in rain-fed regions and dry tracks have a great potential to increase their income by investing in the horticultural sector. So, compared to cereals and pulses, horticulture generates a larger income per hectare of land. Under horticulture, vegetable crops are important sector. ( https://www.agrifarming.in/agriculture-in-odisha-crops-farming-practices#:~:text=)\r\nAdditionally, given the abundance of opportunities in the vegetable farming industry, entrepreneurship is essential for both small businesses and self-employment. Therefore, there is a need to integrate different sources of innovation and extension so that they produce an appropriate synergetic impact in boosting their economy by encouraging vegetable growers to adopt entrepreneurial behaviour.\r\nThe studies conducted in the past were insufficient for development organisations to strengthen their programmes for vegetable growers and establish new methods. With extensive strategic planning for the growth of entrepreneurs, certain research components take on special significance. The study\'s findings would assist extension specialists in developing relevant programmes and employing acceptable techniques to boost vegetable growers\' entrepreneurial behaviour and, as a result, enhance vegetable production. Keeping the above facts in view, the study entitled “Entrepreneurial Behaviour of Vegetable growers in Odisha” was undertaken.\r\nMETHODOLOGY\r\nThe state of Odisha consisted of ten agro-climatic zones based on soil, weather and other relevant characteristics. From these 10 agro climatic zones we have selected two diverse zones for our study for better comparability and representation of the vegetable farmers and their characteristics. Based on the data from Odisha Agricultural statistics (2013-14) East and South Eastern coastal plain (Ranked no1 in both GCA and Production) and Eastern Ghat high land (Ranked no7 in both GCA and production) were selected purposively as they both comes under two completely different cultivation conditions. From these two agro-climatic zones, Cuttack (East and South Eastern coastal plain) and Koraput (Eastern Ghat high land) districts were purposively selected based on highest GCA and production under vegetable cultivation in their respective zones. Out of these selected districts, two blocks from each district were randomly selected constituting total four blocks Banki, Damapara, Pottangi and Laxmipur. From each of the 4 blocks, two gram panchayats and from each gram panchayats one village was randomly selected, thus making it total 8 gram panchayats and 8 villages. Thus, finally eight GPs namely Berhampura, Kiapalla (Banki block), Similipur, Bilipada (Damapara block), Nuagaon, Maliput (Pottangi block), Panchda, Champi (Laxmipur block) and eight villages namely Berhampura (Berhampura GP), Kumusar (Kiapalla GP), Makundpur (Similipur GP), Bilipada (Bilipada GP), Galigabdar (Nuagaon GP), Champakendu (Maliput GP), Niraniguda (Panchda GP) and Titijhila (Champi GP) were selected. From each selected village, for our study 25 farmers who were involved in vegetable farming were selected randomly constituting a total 200 respondents in consultation with horticulture assistant and extension personnel of area. Data was collected by personal interview method at the farmers door steps or at their farms with the help of pretested structured interview schedule and focused group discussions. The collected data were analyzed using various statistical tools like Average, Frequency, and Percentage and they have been categorized based on the Mean±S.D.\r\nThe entrepreneurial behaviour of vegetable growers was measured in terms of eleven dimensions namely, innovativeness, risk orientation, economic motivation, decision making ability, leadership ability, scientific orientation, achievement motivation, self confidence, utilization of available assistance, credit orientation and management orientation. The scores against all these eleven components were added together to arrive at the score for entrepreneurial behaviour. \r\nRESULT AND DISCUSSIONS\r\nThe results pertaining to the entrepreneurial behaviour of vegetable growers comprised eleven components viz. innovativeness, risk orientation, economic motivation, decision making ability, leadership ability, scientific orientation, achievement motivation, self confidence, utilization of available assistance, credit orientation and management orientation are depicted in Table 1 and 2.\r\nInnovativeness. It could be observed from Table 1 that more than half (56.50%) of the vegetable growers had medium level of innovativeness, followed by high (23.50%) and low (20.00%) levels of innovativeness, respectively. The possible reason for the above trend might be that the members had medium level exposure to mass media. The results were in line with Nomeshkumar and Narayanaswamy (2000), Vijaykumar (2001); Bhagyalaxmi et al. (2003); Suresh (2004); Ram et al. (2010); Naidu (2012).\r\nRisk Orientation. It is apparent from Table 1 that majority (64.50%) of the vegetable growers had medium level of risk orientation, followed by 23.00 per cent and 12.50 per cent of them had high and low level of risk orientation, respectively. The vegetable growers with more experience had medium risk orientation, which might be the possible reason for this trend. The results were in line with Chidananda (2008); Madhushekhar (2009); Naidu (2012); Lakshmi Devi et al. (2019); Yewatkar et al. (2019).\r\nEconomic motivation. It is apparent from Table 1 that more than two-third (68.50%) of the vegetable growers had medium level of economic motivation, followed by 20.50 per cent and 11.00 per cent of them had high and low level of economic motivation, respectively. One of the characteristics of entrepreneur is an economic agent, who is busy in financial transactions in terms of buying and selling activities. They should strive hard to reduce the cost of production and marketing and aims for achieving high returns per unit of good. This trait makes an entrepreneur a brilliant visionary when it comes to predicting economic potential. As a result, the above pattern was noticed. The results were in line with Chaudhari (2006).\r\nDecision making ability. It represents from Table 1 that majority of the vegetable growers (60.00%) had medium level of decision making ability, followed by 23.00 per cent of them had low level of decision making ability and only 17.00 per cent of them had high level of decision making ability. Taking right decisions at the appropriate time is crucial to any entrepreneurial endeavor\'s success. This might be due to the fact that most of the vegetable growers had medium level of mass media exposure along with medium level of annual income and most of them took decisions by having discussion with family members, friends and relatives with regard to various activities. As a result, the above pattern was noticed. The results were in line with Yogesh (2016).\r\nLeadership ability. It is evident from Table 1 that that a great majority (88.50%) of the vegetable growers were found to have medium level of leadership ability followed by only 11.50 per cent of them had low level of leadership ability and none of them had high level of leadership ability. As an entrepreneur one should gain leadership skill because enterprise management necessitates coordination among different subsystems which require different skills. Among them leadership skill should be developed as every entrepreneur is expected to interact with various types of people. They also can influence, help, guide and support the fellow farmers in solving their problems. The result is similar to the findings of Mubeena (2017).\r\nScientific orientation. It is quite clear from the Table 1 that a great majority (85.00%) of the respondents had medium level of scientific orientation, followed by only 15.00 per cent of them had low level of scientific orientation and none of them had high level of scientific orientation. The results were in line with Thorat (2005); Nagabhushana (2007); Begum (2008); Gowda et al. (2011); Kalyan (2011).\r\nAchievement motivation. It is evident from Table 1 that majority (76.50%) of the vegetable growers were found to have medium level of achievement motivation, followed by 23.50 per cent of the vegetable growers had low level of achievement motivation and none of them had high level of achievement motivation. Individuals who are motivated by achievement are more likely to achieve the goals they set for themselves. The bulk of vegetable growers are in their middle years, which explains the above statistic. These people are in their forties and fifties. Their motivation to reach a higher status is moderate, and their aspirations are also moderate. The results were in line with Kiran et al. (2012); Ram et al. (2013); Mubeena (2017).\r\nSelf confidence. It is quite clear from the Table 1 that majority (75.50%) of the vegetable growers had medium level of self confidence, followed by low level of self confidence (23.50%) and only 01.00 per cent of them had high level of self confidence. Majority of the respondents had primary and high school level of education along with medium level of farming experience might be the probable reason for this type of findings. The results were in line with Kiran et al. (2012); Wankhade et al. (2013).\r\nUtilization of available assistance. It is evident from Table 1 that majority (78.50%) of the vegetable growers had medium level of utilization of available assistance, followed by 17.50 per cent of them had high level of utilization of available assistance and only 4.00 per cent of them had low level of utilization of available assistance. \r\nCredit orientation. A glance at the Table 1 shows that, more than half (56.00%) of the vegetable growers had medium level of credit orientation, followed by 40.50 per cent of them had high level of credit orientation and only 3.50 per cent of them had low level of credit orientation. The available own funds of the vegetable growers might not be sufficient and making them think towards source of credit. Nearly half of them had medium level of income, so to establish reasonably high profit business, they were depending on different sources of credit. They were motivated by this mentality to use credit responsibly in order to succeed in their entrepreneurial endeavors. They may believe that accepting credit will help their entrepreneurial operations run smoothly and profitably. Hence, the above trend was noticed. The results were in line with Sofeghar (2017).\r\nManagement orientation. It is operationally defined as the degree to which a vegetable grower is oriented towards scientific farm management comprising planning, production and marketing function.It is evident from Table 1 that more than half of the vegetable growers (58.50%) medium level of management orientation, followed by 26.00 per cent of them had low level and 15.50 per cent of them had high level of management orientation. The possible reason might be due to their medium experience in vegetable cultivation and medium extension contact. These variables might have helped in a good management. The results were in line with Shreekant and Jahagirdar (2017).\r\n(a) Planning orientation. It is quite clear from the Table 1 that nearly three-fourth of the vegetable growers (73.50%) of the vegetable growers had medium level of planning orientation, followed by 15.50 per cent of them had low level and only 11.00 per cent of them had high level of planning orientation. \r\n(b) Production orientation. It is quite clear from the Table 1 that a great majority of the vegetable growers (95.00%) of the vegetable growers had medium level of production orientation, followed by 5.00 per cent of them had low level and none of them had high level of production orientation, respectively.\r\n(c) Marketing orientation. It is evident from Table 1 that majority (71.50%) of the vegetable growers had medium level of marketing orientation, followed by those with low marketing orientation (17.50%) and with high marketing orientation (11.00%).\r\nOverall Entrepreneurial Behaviour of Vegetable growers. The vegetable farming requires much management decisions to be taken up by the farmers during activities of vegetable farming. Entrepreneurial behaviour of vegetable growers is operationally defined as cumulative outcome components namely, innovativeness, risk orientation, economic motivation, decision making ability, leadership ability, scientific orientation, achievement motivation, self confidence, utilization of available assistance, credit orientation and management orientation.\r\nFrom the Table 2 it is evident that majority (70.00%) of the vegetable growers belonged to medium entrepreneurial behaviour, followed by (20.50%) and (9.50%) vegetable growers had low and high level of entrepreneurial behaviour, respectively. The probable reason for this might be better social participation, expose with mass media, contacting different extension officials etc. might have developed a positive entrepreneurial attitude towards vegetable farming. Moreover, majority of the respondents were of medium income group enthusiastic in improving their standard of living might be another reason for this trend.\r\nFurther their past experiences in farming might have taught them managerial skills which are essential to maintain the profit from their vegetable farming enterprise. It could also be noticed that, only one-fifth of the respondents had low level of entrepreneurial behaviour. This might be due to their lack of education, lack of exposure to trainings given etc. Hence the above trend was noticed. The results were in line with Tamilselvi and Sudhakar (2010); Sabale et al. (2014); Yewatkar et al. (2019).\r\n','Bijayalaxmi Nayak and Pradip Kumar Banerjee (2022). Entrepreneurial Behaviour of Vegetable Growers in Odisha. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 14(2a): 608-613.'),(5363,'134','Entrepreneurial Behaviour of Vegetable Growers in Odisha','Bijayalaxmi Nayak and Pradip Kumar Banerjee','101 Entrepreneurial Behaviour of Vegetable Growers in Odisha Bijayalaxmi Nayak.pdf','',4,'In terms of the variety of rural vocations, India has enormous potential for the development of entrepreneurship. One of the promising areas for Indian business development is the production of vegetables. In rural India, industries based on vegetables are becoming significant drivers of economic growth. Growing evidence suggests that the enterprise of producing vegetables could contribute more positively to rural welfare and poverty reduction by creating jobs at the farm level. Keeping this in view the present study was carried out in Cuttack and Koraput district of Odisha State. An ex-post facto design of social research was used. A sample of 200 vegetable growers as respondents were drawn and information obtained from them was considered for tabulation and analysis of data. Findings revealed that majority of the vegetable growers had medium level in all entrepreneurial traits/attributes namely innovativeness, risk orientation, economic motivation, decision making ability, leadership ability, scientific orientation, achievement motivation, self confidence, utilization of available assistance, credit orientation and management orientation. The overall entrepreneurial behavior was found to be of medium level. Though the present paper attempts to examine the entrepreneurial behaviour of vegetable growers of Odisha, the study was confined to Cuttack and Koraput districts of Odisha. Hence, generalization on this could be restricted to other areas with similar condition. The findings of the study were based on verbal expression of the respondents, therefore the findings were conditioned by the extent of reliable and valid information provided by those selected for the purpose of investigation.','Entrepreneurial behaviour, Entrepreneurial attributes, Vegetable growers, Innovativeness','The study concluded that majority of the respondents possessed medium level of entrepreneurial behaviour with respect to all the components of entrepreneurial behaviour. It is an indication of the progressiveness of the farmers. Thus, it calls for intensification of efforts and policy support to the farmers by field extension workers of the development departments. Due to time & resource constraints the result of the study was having regional implication with respect to area and sample size. Based on this, extensive studies on the similar aspect can be conducted in future for better implication. The study has implication for the planners and policy makers specially related to increase in production and productivity of seasonal vegetables in a better organized manner considering the commercial impact and crop diversification aspect in future. Specific vegetable cultivation zones can be developed in the state based on various resource availability.','INTRODUCTION\r\nSince vegetables are a staple of the human diet, a meal without one is considered insufficient in every region of the world. After China, India is the second-largest vegetable producer in the world. These make around 3% of the total agricultural area and are grown on about 6 million hectares. Despite the need for vegetables is 300g/day/person as advised by a nutritionist, we can only satisfy roughly 1/9th of that need. Vegetables from other countries are introduced in large quantities in India. In order to face the challenge of providing enough food to India\'s expanding population, a planned development in the sector of vegetable production would not only increase the nutritional requirements for the general public but also the labor-intensive nature of vegetable growing can also greatly expand employment opportunities (Jena and Parida 2016).\r\nIn India, agriculture is very significant because it not only helps to feed the rural population but also significantly boosts the country\'s economy. The fact that agriculture employs and sustains over 65% of India\'s people makes it important as well. Entrepreneurship and rural development are more closely related than ever. Any country\'s economic growth is largely dependent on the crucial role that entrepreneurs play in society. In developing nations like India, where there are many chances for applying innovations to harness the resources available, notably in the sector of agriculture, the role performed by such entrepreneurs is crucial.\r\nWe can find people with the necessary entrepreneurial skill in all facets of the population in our nation, where there are abundant human resources. The Indian government created a distinct ministry for micro, small, and medium-sized businesses to encourage entrepreneurship in rural and semi-urban areas. Changes in an entrepreneur\'s knowledge, ability, and attitude are referred to as entrepreneurial behaviour. The first step in bringing about change is understanding how an individual will react to it. In order to take action to foster entrepreneurial qualities and promote entrepreneurship, it is important to understand a person\'s unique characteristics. This is why studying entrepreneurial behaviour is important in order to maintain a healthy society, entrepreneurship serves as a means of enhancing the standard of living for people, families, and communities.\r\nTo enhance the standard of extension services provided by institutional and noninstitutional bodies, it is crucial to comprehend such entrepreneurial behaviour. Vegetable farming requires a lot of capital and is risky, thus in order to manage the business successfully, a farmer needs the ability to take risks, be original, inventive, and resourceful. These traits provide them the ability to choose and accept the adoption of suitable scientific farming techniques. Individual, situational, psychological, social, and experiential aspects all affect how entrepreneurs behave (Rao, 1985).\r\nOdisha is blessed with a wide range of agro-climatic conditions that are ideal for the growth of horticulture crops. Farmers in rain-fed regions and dry tracks have a great potential to increase their income by investing in the horticultural sector. So, compared to cereals and pulses, horticulture generates a larger income per hectare of land. Under horticulture, vegetable crops are important sector. ( https://www.agrifarming.in/agriculture-in-odisha-crops-farming-practices#:~:text=)\r\nAdditionally, given the abundance of opportunities in the vegetable farming industry, entrepreneurship is essential for both small businesses and self-employment. Therefore, there is a need to integrate different sources of innovation and extension so that they produce an appropriate synergetic impact in boosting their economy by encouraging vegetable growers to adopt entrepreneurial behaviour.\r\nThe studies conducted in the past were insufficient for development organisations to strengthen their programmes for vegetable growers and establish new methods. With extensive strategic planning for the growth of entrepreneurs, certain research components take on special significance. The study\'s findings would assist extension specialists in developing relevant programmes and employing acceptable techniques to boost vegetable growers\' entrepreneurial behaviour and, as a result, enhance vegetable production. Keeping the above facts in view, the study entitled “Entrepreneurial Behaviour of Vegetable growers in Odisha” was undertaken.\r\nMETHODOLOGY\r\nThe state of Odisha consisted of ten agro-climatic zones based on soil, weather and other relevant characteristics. From these 10 agro climatic zones we have selected two diverse zones for our study for better comparability and representation of the vegetable farmers and their characteristics. Based on the data from Odisha Agricultural statistics (2013-14) East and South Eastern coastal plain (Ranked no1 in both GCA and Production) and Eastern Ghat high land (Ranked no7 in both GCA and production) were selected purposively as they both comes under two completely different cultivation conditions. From these two agro-climatic zones, Cuttack (East and South Eastern coastal plain) and Koraput (Eastern Ghat high land) districts were purposively selected based on highest GCA and production under vegetable cultivation in their respective zones. Out of these selected districts, two blocks from each district were randomly selected constituting total four blocks Banki, Damapara, Pottangi and Laxmipur. From each of the 4 blocks, two gram panchayats and from each gram panchayats one village was randomly selected, thus making it total 8 gram panchayats and 8 villages. Thus, finally eight GPs namely Berhampura, Kiapalla (Banki block), Similipur, Bilipada (Damapara block), Nuagaon, Maliput (Pottangi block), Panchda, Champi (Laxmipur block) and eight villages namely Berhampura (Berhampura GP), Kumusar (Kiapalla GP), Makundpur (Similipur GP), Bilipada (Bilipada GP), Galigabdar (Nuagaon GP), Champakendu (Maliput GP), Niraniguda (Panchda GP) and Titijhila (Champi GP) were selected. From each selected village, for our study 25 farmers who were involved in vegetable farming were selected randomly constituting a total 200 respondents in consultation with horticulture assistant and extension personnel of area. Data was collected by personal interview method at the farmers door steps or at their farms with the help of pretested structured interview schedule and focused group discussions. The collected data were analyzed using various statistical tools like Average, Frequency, and Percentage and they have been categorized based on the Mean±S.D.\r\nThe entrepreneurial behaviour of vegetable growers was measured in terms of eleven dimensions namely, innovativeness, risk orientation, economic motivation, decision making ability, leadership ability, scientific orientation, achievement motivation, self confidence, utilization of available assistance, credit orientation and management orientation. The scores against all these eleven components were added together to arrive at the score for entrepreneurial behaviour. \r\nRESULT AND DISCUSSIONS\r\nThe results pertaining to the entrepreneurial behaviour of vegetable growers comprised eleven components viz. innovativeness, risk orientation, economic motivation, decision making ability, leadership ability, scientific orientation, achievement motivation, self confidence, utilization of available assistance, credit orientation and management orientation are depicted in Table 1 and 2.\r\nInnovativeness. It could be observed from Table 1 that more than half (56.50%) of the vegetable growers had medium level of innovativeness, followed by high (23.50%) and low (20.00%) levels of innovativeness, respectively. The possible reason for the above trend might be that the members had medium level exposure to mass media. The results were in line with Nomeshkumar and Narayanaswamy (2000), Vijaykumar (2001); Bhagyalaxmi et al. (2003); Suresh (2004); Ram et al. (2010); Naidu (2012).\r\nRisk Orientation. It is apparent from Table 1 that majority (64.50%) of the vegetable growers had medium level of risk orientation, followed by 23.00 per cent and 12.50 per cent of them had high and low level of risk orientation, respectively. The vegetable growers with more experience had medium risk orientation, which might be the possible reason for this trend. The results were in line with Chidananda (2008); Madhushekhar (2009); Naidu (2012); Lakshmi Devi et al. (2019); Yewatkar et al. (2019).\r\nEconomic motivation. It is apparent from Table 1 that more than two-third (68.50%) of the vegetable growers had medium level of economic motivation, followed by 20.50 per cent and 11.00 per cent of them had high and low level of economic motivation, respectively. One of the characteristics of entrepreneur is an economic agent, who is busy in financial transactions in terms of buying and selling activities. They should strive hard to reduce the cost of production and marketing and aims for achieving high returns per unit of good. This trait makes an entrepreneur a brilliant visionary when it comes to predicting economic potential. As a result, the above pattern was noticed. The results were in line with Chaudhari (2006).\r\nDecision making ability. It represents from Table 1 that majority of the vegetable growers (60.00%) had medium level of decision making ability, followed by 23.00 per cent of them had low level of decision making ability and only 17.00 per cent of them had high level of decision making ability. Taking right decisions at the appropriate time is crucial to any entrepreneurial endeavor\'s success. This might be due to the fact that most of the vegetable growers had medium level of mass media exposure along with medium level of annual income and most of them took decisions by having discussion with family members, friends and relatives with regard to various activities. As a result, the above pattern was noticed. The results were in line with Yogesh (2016).\r\nLeadership ability. It is evident from Table 1 that that a great majority (88.50%) of the vegetable growers were found to have medium level of leadership ability followed by only 11.50 per cent of them had low level of leadership ability and none of them had high level of leadership ability. As an entrepreneur one should gain leadership skill because enterprise management necessitates coordination among different subsystems which require different skills. Among them leadership skill should be developed as every entrepreneur is expected to interact with various types of people. They also can influence, help, guide and support the fellow farmers in solving their problems. The result is similar to the findings of Mubeena (2017).\r\nScientific orientation. It is quite clear from the Table 1 that a great majority (85.00%) of the respondents had medium level of scientific orientation, followed by only 15.00 per cent of them had low level of scientific orientation and none of them had high level of scientific orientation. The results were in line with Thorat (2005); Nagabhushana (2007); Begum (2008); Gowda et al. (2011); Kalyan (2011).\r\nAchievement motivation. It is evident from Table 1 that majority (76.50%) of the vegetable growers were found to have medium level of achievement motivation, followed by 23.50 per cent of the vegetable growers had low level of achievement motivation and none of them had high level of achievement motivation. Individuals who are motivated by achievement are more likely to achieve the goals they set for themselves. The bulk of vegetable growers are in their middle years, which explains the above statistic. These people are in their forties and fifties. Their motivation to reach a higher status is moderate, and their aspirations are also moderate. The results were in line with Kiran et al. (2012); Ram et al. (2013); Mubeena (2017).\r\nSelf confidence. It is quite clear from the Table 1 that majority (75.50%) of the vegetable growers had medium level of self confidence, followed by low level of self confidence (23.50%) and only 01.00 per cent of them had high level of self confidence. Majority of the respondents had primary and high school level of education along with medium level of farming experience might be the probable reason for this type of findings. The results were in line with Kiran et al. (2012); Wankhade et al. (2013).\r\nUtilization of available assistance. It is evident from Table 1 that majority (78.50%) of the vegetable growers had medium level of utilization of available assistance, followed by 17.50 per cent of them had high level of utilization of available assistance and only 4.00 per cent of them had low level of utilization of available assistance. \r\nCredit orientation. A glance at the Table 1 shows that, more than half (56.00%) of the vegetable growers had medium level of credit orientation, followed by 40.50 per cent of them had high level of credit orientation and only 3.50 per cent of them had low level of credit orientation. The available own funds of the vegetable growers might not be sufficient and making them think towards source of credit. Nearly half of them had medium level of income, so to establish reasonably high profit business, they were depending on different sources of credit. They were motivated by this mentality to use credit responsibly in order to succeed in their entrepreneurial endeavors. They may believe that accepting credit will help their entrepreneurial operations run smoothly and profitably. Hence, the above trend was noticed. The results were in line with Sofeghar (2017).\r\nManagement orientation. It is operationally defined as the degree to which a vegetable grower is oriented towards scientific farm management comprising planning, production and marketing function.It is evident from Table 1 that more than half of the vegetable growers (58.50%) medium level of management orientation, followed by 26.00 per cent of them had low level and 15.50 per cent of them had high level of management orientation. The possible reason might be due to their medium experience in vegetable cultivation and medium extension contact. These variables might have helped in a good management. The results were in line with Shreekant and Jahagirdar (2017).\r\n(a) Planning orientation. It is quite clear from the Table 1 that nearly three-fourth of the vegetable growers (73.50%) of the vegetable growers had medium level of planning orientation, followed by 15.50 per cent of them had low level and only 11.00 per cent of them had high level of planning orientation. \r\n(b) Production orientation. It is quite clear from the Table 1 that a great majority of the vegetable growers (95.00%) of the vegetable growers had medium level of production orientation, followed by 5.00 per cent of them had low level and none of them had high level of production orientation, respectively.\r\n(c) Marketing orientation. It is evident from Table 1 that majority (71.50%) of the vegetable growers had medium level of marketing orientation, followed by those with low marketing orientation (17.50%) and with high marketing orientation (11.00%).\r\nOverall Entrepreneurial Behaviour of Vegetable growers. The vegetable farming requires much management decisions to be taken up by the farmers during activities of vegetable farming. Entrepreneurial behaviour of vegetable growers is operationally defined as cumulative outcome components namely, innovativeness, risk orientation, economic motivation, decision making ability, leadership ability, scientific orientation, achievement motivation, self confidence, utilization of available assistance, credit orientation and management orientation.\r\nFrom the Table 2 it is evident that majority (70.00%) of the vegetable growers belonged to medium entrepreneurial behaviour, followed by (20.50%) and (9.50%) vegetable growers had low and high level of entrepreneurial behaviour, respectively. The probable reason for this might be better social participation, expose with mass media, contacting different extension officials etc. might have developed a positive entrepreneurial attitude towards vegetable farming. Moreover, majority of the respondents were of medium income group enthusiastic in improving their standard of living might be another reason for this trend.\r\nFurther their past experiences in farming might have taught them managerial skills which are essential to maintain the profit from their vegetable farming enterprise. It could also be noticed that, only one-fifth of the respondents had low level of entrepreneurial behaviour. This might be due to their lack of education, lack of exposure to trainings given etc. Hence the above trend was noticed. The results were in line with Tamilselvi and Sudhakar (2010); Sabale et al. (2014); Yewatkar et al. (2019).\r\n','Bijayalaxmi Nayak and Pradip Kumar Banerjee (2022). Entrepreneurial Behaviour of Vegetable Growers in Odisha. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 14(2a): 608-613.'),(5364,'136','Studies in ASD 16 × Improved Pusa Basmati 1 RIL Population for yield and Physical properties in Rice (Oryza sativa L.)','V. Blessy, E. Murugan, R. Suresh, R.P. Gnanamalar, S. Vellai Kumar and S. Kanchana','132 Studies in ASD 16 × Improved Pusa Basmati 1 RIL Population for yield and Physical properties in Rice (Oryza sativa L.) V. Blessy.pdf','',1,'The present study was carried out from the segregating population of F3 generations of the cross “ASD16 × Improved Pusa Basmati 1” to determine genetic variability, degree of association between yield and its component traits. Two sets viz., long slender type and medium grain type RIL’s were taken for the above study. The extent of phenotypic coefficient of variation (PCV) was in general high compared to genotypic coefficient of variation (GCV) for all the traits. Yield and its contributing characters had high heritability coupled with high genetic advance in both categories. High heritability coupled with moderate genetic advance was exhibited by kernel length and kernel breadth in the medium slender category. Moderate heritability coupled with low genetic advance was exhibited by kernel length- breadth ratio in long slender grain category. Based on the correlation and path analysis positive significance association and direct effects were exhibited by plant height, number of productive tillers, number of filled grains per panicle and kernel breadth in long slender category. In medium slender category the positive significant association and direct effects were exhibited by plant height, number of productive tillers, number of filled grains per panicle and kernel length. As Improvement of yield along with quality is the major challenge for the breeders. Selection of Genotypes based on the above said parameters were reliable.','Rice, grain types, Phenotypic coefficient of variation, genotypic coefficient of variation, heritability, genetic advance per mean percent, correlation and path analysis. ','Based on the PCV and GCV values, number of productive tillers, number of filled grains, single plant yield in both grain types have high values. Based on the heritability and genetic advance percentage of mean yield and yield attributing traits showed high heritability and high genetic advance percent of mean. As per the correlation and path analysis selection should be based on plant height, number of productive tillers, number of filled grains, kernel breadth in the long slender grain type whereas in the medium slender types plant height, number of productive tillers, number of filled grains, third trait i.e., kernel length should be given importance for improving respective quality traits along with high yield.','INTRODUCTION\r\nRice is the staple food crop for majority of the countries in the world. The major rice producing states are West Bengal, Uttar Pradesh, Punjab, Tamil Nadu, Andhra Pradesh, Bihar, Chhattisgarh, Odisha, Assam, and Haryana in India. The production of rice during 2020-21 was 121.46 million tonnes. It was higher by 9.01 million tonnes against five years\' average production of 112.44 million tonnes. As India attained self-sufficiency in the food grain production, a paradigm shift has happened towards the rice quality improvement. Rice quality is the driving force which determines the consumer acceptance. The definition of rice quality is uncertain and differed from geographical area, economic condition of the people and consumer acceptance. Rice has been classified as premium, good and poor quality. According to the Indian standards, premium grade consists of India’s famous Basmati type with aroma and good quality rice with long, medium and short slender grains with or without aroma along with good palatability and taste. Indians prefer linear expansion in grains than volume expansion of rice, less water to cook and with less sticky (intermediate amylose) in nature. Poor quality rice is mostly bold, sticky with more breakages. Indian cosmopolitan varieties have evolved by making quality as a paramount importance along with pest and disease resistance and high yield. India, one of the largest exporters of rice in the world, exports more non-Basmati types than Basmati types with 8217.26 million tonnes. While Basmati types accounts 3380.65 million tonnes (INDIASTA, 2021). The major importers are Nepal followed by west African country Benin. According to the DGCIS data, India exported non-basmati rice worth USD 2015 million in 2019-20, which rose to USD 4799 million in 2020-21 and USD 6115 million in 2021-22. Hence present study was under taken with ASD 16 and Improved Pusa Basmati 1 to get desirable segregants for long slender aromatic types and short and, medium slender non aromatic types. ASD 16 is the short bold, grain type with high yield potential. IPB 1 was a long slender grain with exceptional cooking quality, expands linearly rather than breadth wise with good aroma. Variability studies indicate the presence of more variation present in the population for several traits which is an important tool for the development of a good quality traits. Heritability and genetic advance are important for transfer of character to the next generation and helps in fixing the desirable trait. Correlation and path analysis revealed the degree and direction of the trait. Path analysis splits the correlation coefficient in to direct and indirect effect and thus helps the plant breeder to select the other trait connected with dependent trait.\r\nMATERIALS AND METHODS\r\nASD16 and Improved Pusa Basmati 1(IPB 1) were taken for the present study. In the F3 generation, two hundred and thirty-eight RIL’s were selected and raised in single seed decent method without replication. The 238 RIL’s were divided as two categories based on length and breadth. Among 238 RIL’s Ninety RIL’s were long-slender grains (>6.61-7.5 mm) (slender>3.00) type and one hundred and nineteen RIL’s were under medium slender (5.51-6.60 mm) ((slender>3.00) category. Observations were recorded for each RIL for the traits viz., days to 50% flowering, plant height, number of productive tillers, panicle length, number of filled grains per panicle, hundred seed weight, single plant yield and physical properties viz., kernel length, kernel breadth and kernel length- breadth ratio. Based on the data obtained, T NAUSTAT software was used to analyse the mean performance, correlation (Snedecor and Cochran 1967) and path analysis as suggested by Dewey and Lu (1959).\r\nRESULTS\r\nThe results obtained from the above data were discussed separately for each category. In the long slender category range for days to 50 percent flowering was 81 to 1178 days where as for plant height ranges from 69 to 147.5 cm. Panicle length ranged from 15 to 35cm, number of the productive tillers from 6 to 27. Regarding the number of the filled grains ranged from100 to 200, hundred grain weight 2.04g to 4.04 g and for the single plant yield 11.0 g -37.5g. kernel length ranged from 6.6-7.5 mm with kernel breadth 1.8-2.6 mm and for kernel L/B ratio 2.58-4.17mm (Table 1).\r\nIn the medium slender category days to 50% flowering registered 72 to 123days, plant height from 73 to 150 cm, number of productive tillers ranges from 10 to 27. Regarding panicle length, which ranged from 18.5 to 36 cm in length. The number of filled grains had range from 11 to 220. The hundred grain weight from 2.04 to 3.93 g, single plant yield has shown wide variation of 10-39.5g. The kernel length was from 5.5 to 6.6 mm, kernel breadth ranged from 1.7-2.6 mm and the L/B ratio was from 2.15-3.82 mm (Table 1).\r\nIn the long slender grain category, the mean for days to the 50% flowering was100 days, plant height (101.3 cm), number of productive tillers (18.5), panicle length (25.4cm), number of filled grains per panicle was (159.1) and hundred grain weight was (2.7 g). Regarding single plant yield the mean exhibited was (25.6) g. The kernel length (7.0mm) and kernel breadth (2.0mm) and for kernel L/B ratio (3.4mm) (Table 1).\r\nRegarding medium slender category the mean for days to 50% flowering showed 92.8 days, plant height (101.2cm),number of productive tillers (18.7), panicle length was (26.9cm), number of filled grains per panicle (157.2), hundred grain weight (2.8 g) single plant yield (25.8 g). Mean for kernel length (6.2 mm), kernel breadth (2.1 mm) and L/B ratio of 2.9 mm (Table 1).\r\nPhenotypic and Genotypic coefficient of variation. The magnitude of PCV and GCV values did not exhibited notable differences in both of the categories. In the long slender grain type, the values of PCV and GCV were high for number of productive tillers of 23.4 and 21.6 respectively. The single plant yields the PCV was 22.4 and GCV 21.5. Moderate PCV and GCV were recorded for number of filled grains per panicle (15.9), (15.2), panicle length (15.3), (14.3), plant height (14.8) and (14.2) respectively. Regarding hundred grain weight PCV and GCV values were (14.1), (12.4) respectively where as Low PCV and GCV value was recorded for Kernel L/B ratio, kernel breadth and kernel length (Table 2).\r\nIn the medium slender grain type high PCV and GCV was observed by number of productive tillers per plant (26.1), (23.7), single plant yield (24.2), (23.3). Moderate PCV and GCV was observed for number of filled grains per panicle (16.2),(15.5) followed by panicle length (14.5), (13.5) and plant height (14.1), (13.7) in the F3 generation (Table 3).\r\nHeritability and Genetic advance as percentage of mean. In the long slender grain type high heritability coupled with high genetic advance as percent of mean was detected for single plant yield (91.7), (42.4), followed by number of productive tillers (85.2), (41). The traits like, plant height (94.2), (28.8), number of filled grains per panicle (91), (29) and hundred grain weight (77.7), (22.5) also revealed the presence of high heritability with high genetic advance. High heritability coupled with moderate genetic advance was recorded for the days to 50% flowering (88.9), (17.1). respectively. Similarly, high heritability with low genetic advance has been observed for Kernel length (72.8), (4.8) kernel breadth (61.1), (9.9) respectively. Moderate heritability with low genetic advance was exhibited for kernel length-breadth ratio (32.7) and (5.6) (Table 2).\r\nIn the medium slender grain type high heritability coupled with high genetic advance was exhibited by single plant yield (93) and (46.3), plant height (93.6), (27.2), number of productive tillers per plant (88.3), (47.5) panicle length exhibited (87.2), (26.1) hundred grain weight (79.6), (23.7). High heritability with moderate genetic advance was observed for days to 50% flowering (69.7), (12.4), and kernel breadth (69.8), (12.48). Similarly, high heritability coupled with low genetic advance was observed for kernel length (84.0), (8.3) (Table 3).\r\nAssociation study for long slender grain type. Correlation coefficient is a statistical measure which is found out to measure the degree of relationship between two or more variables. It is represented by ‘r’. In the long slender grain type number of productive tillers (0.74), number of filled grains per panicle (0.58), plant height (0.34) and kernel breadth (0.20) showed positive and highly significant association with the single plant yield. Whereas days to 50% flowering showed (-0.41) negative the kernel L/B ratio (-0.21) had negative association with the single plant yield. Positive and significant intercorrelation was observed between panicle length and plant height (0.46). Similarly, positive with high significant inter-association was observed between number of filled grains to the plant height (0.31), number of productive tillers (0.27), same was observed between kernel breadth and number of filled grains (0.23). Kernel L/B ratio showed positive and high significance with kernel length (0.45) but it has high negative significance with kernel breadth (-0.92) followed by the number of filled grains (-0.21) (Table 4). Regarding path analysis high direct effects was exhibited by number of productive tillers per plant (0.56) followed by number of filled grains per panicle (0.36) to single plant yield. Number of filled grains showed low positive in direct effect through number of productive tillers (0.15) on yield (Table 5).\r\nAssociation analysis for medium slender grain type. In the medium slender group, single plant yield showed positive and highly significant association with the number of productive tillers (0.78). Followed by number of filled grains (0.65), plant height (0.34) and kernel length (0.15). Similarly, panicle length exhibited positive and significant inter-association with plant height (0.52). Similarly, number of filled grains showed positive and significant intercorrelation with plant height (0.34) and with number of productive tillers per plant (0.41). Regarding kernel length showed positive significant inter-association with plant height (0.21). Kernel breadth it had a significant negative association with kernel length (-0.36). Kernel L/B ratio showed positive and significant inter- association with Kernel length (0.68) and negative association with kernel breadth (-0.92) and days to 50% flowering (-0.19) (Table 6). Path analysis revealed that high and positive direct effect was registered by number of productive tillers per plant (0.57), number of filled grains per panicle (0.36) and negative indirect effect with kernel length -breadth ratio (-0.17). Number of filled grains per panicle showed positive indirect effect on single plant yield through number of productive tillers per plant (0.23). Number of productive tillers per plant showed positive and indirect effect on single plant yield through number of filled grains per panicle. Regarding and kernel l/b ratio it was positive with kernel breadth (0.15) (Table 7).\r\nDISCUSSION \r\nThe extent of phenotypic coefficient of variation (PCV) in general was found to be higher than genotypic coefficient of variation (GCV) for all the traits included in the study indicated the influence of environment on the expression of these characters. The high magnitude of GCV and PCV for the traits indicated the presence of high degree of variability and so there will be better scope for the improvement of the trait through simple selection. In the present study number of productive tillers, single plant yield and exhibited high heritability with high genetic advance. Similar results were reported for number of productive tillers and single plant yield by Kahani and Hittalmani (2016); Harsha et al. (2017); Sharma and Hemant (2020). The traits exhibiting moderate PCV and GCV the selection for these traits are likely to provide scope for improvement of the trait through selection in their particular environment due to their moderate genetic variability (Paswan et al., 2014). In the present study, panicle length, number of filled grains per panicle had moderate PCV and GCV in both categories. Similar kind of findings for panicle length, number of filled grains per panicle was observed by Rukmini et al. (2014); Srujana et al. (2017); Sharma and Hemant (2020).\r\nAccording to Panse and Sukhatme (1954) if a character is governed by non-additive gene action, it may exhibit heritability but low genetic advance, whereas if it is governed by additive gene action, high heritability (above 60%) along with high genetic advance (above 20%) provide good scope for further improvement of the trait. Traits governed by high heritability and high genetic advance per mean percent selection of such traits may be rewarding. In the present study, days to 50% flowering, plant height, number of productive tillers, panicle length, number of filled grains per panicle, hundred grain weight, single plant yield in long and medium slender grain category Similar results for the days to 50% flowering, plant height, number of productive tillers panicle length the number of filled grains per panicle hundred grain weight and single plant yield was obtained by Veni et al. (2013); Rukmini et al. (2014); Behera et al. (2018); Sharma and Hemant (2020). Regarding association analysis single plant yield had significant and positive correlation with plant height, number of productive tillers, number of filled grains per panicle and kernel breadth in long slender grain type group. Whereas in the medium slender grain category also plant height, number of productive tillers, number of filled grains per panicle and kernel length had positive correlation with yield. These results were in accordance with Menaka and Ibrahim et al. (2015), Premkumar et al. (2015). So, selection of these traits will be more effective towards the improvement of single plant yield in both long and medium slender grain types. In the path analysis plant height, number of productive tillers, number of filled grains per panicle, contributes positive and high direct effect towards the improvement of yield in both long and medium slender grains.\r\n','V. Blessy, E. Murugan, R. Suresh, R.P. Gnanamalar, S. Vellai Kumar and S. Kanchana (2022). Studies in ASD 16× Improved Pusa Basmati 1 RIL Population for yield and Physical properties in Rice (Oryza sativa L.). Biological Forum – An International Journal, 14(3): 780-785.'),(5365,'136','Evaluation of Citrus Rootstocks to Salinity Tolerance','A. Srinivasulu, C.M. Panda, S.N. Dash, A. Mishra and R.K. Panda','133 Evaluation of Citrus Rootstocks to Salinity Tolerance A. Srinivasulu.pdf','',1,'Citrus fruit being a major horticultural crop consumed globally, is severely affected by issues related to biotic and abiotic stresses. Following stress effects, a research study was carried out to evaluate the morphological and physiological responses of citrus rootstocks to different levels of salinity stress. The use of salt tolerant genotypes as rootstock to mitigate the adverse effects of salinity could be helpful for commercial citrus production in salt affected areas. The present investigation was carried at the Horticulture Research Station, College of Agriculture, Odisha University of Agriculture and Technology, Bhubaneshwar, during the years 2018-20, wherein the germination percentage nucellar citrus genotypes namely Rough lemon 8779, CRH-12, Gajanimma, Rangapur lime –Tirupati strain, Rangapur lime - Texas strain, Sour dig, Sour orange 8751, Emmekaipuli, Chinnato sour orange, Carizo citrange, Balaji acid lime, Japanese summer sour orange and Australian sour orange subjected to salinity stress by NaCl, CaCl2, NaCl + CaCl2 (1:1 w/w) at 0 mM, 25 mM, 50 mM and 75 mM concentrations in irrigation water. For germination studies the Coco peat was used as growing media. Among these genotypes, Rangapur lime –Tirupatistrain, Rangapur lime - Texas strain and Balaji acid lime showed early and maximum germination and it is confirmed that the citrus seeds can germinate under 75 mM salinity stress with congenial environment and growing media. Hence the findings stated that the salinity caused reduction in seedling growth, biomass content. From the research findings it could be concluded that the germination percentage, days taken for first germination, days taken for 50% flowering were unaffected by salinity level studied and Maximum reduction in plant height, stem diameter and number of leaves were noticed in the seedlings of Carizo citrange, Chinnato sour orange and CRH-12 whilst the minimum was recorded in Australian sour orange, Sour dig, Sour orange 8751, rough lemon and Rangpur lime seedlings and the least reduction of leaf area and root length, was in the seedlings of Australian sour orange, Sour dig and Sour orange 8751. The genotypes Australian sour orange, Sour dig, Sour orange 8751, Rough lemon and Rangpur lime depicted the lowest decrease in biomass content (fresh and dry weight of shoot and root) while the maximum reduction was noticed in Carizo citrange followed by Chinnato sour orange and CRH-12.','Citrus rootstocks, Germination, Growth and development and Salinity stress','In the light of above presented results, it was observed that different salinity levels show a detrimental influence on all the growth attributes of citrus rootstock. Increasing soil salinity levels from 0 mM to 75 mM NaCl attained reduction in vegetative growth (plant height, number of leaves, stem thickness, leaf area, root and shoot fresh weight, root, and shoot dry weight). The maximum value of growth attributes, less toxicity symptoms, were recorded in Australian sour orange rootstocks compared to other citrus rootstocks. Among the citrus rootstocks, sour orange give best results regarding growth performance under saline condition, while ‘Carizo citrange’ was found the least tolerant rootstock.','INTRODUCTION\r\nBiotic and abiotic stresses have become a serious issue all over the world, affecting plant growth and productivity. Abiotic stress causes a serious crop loss worldwide, contributing to the production decline of major crops by 50%. Moreover, soil salinity has become one of the major environmental factors affecting many crop plants\' growth and productivity. The reduction in arable land due to salinization is in direct relation with the needs of the increasing population which is at an increasing rate (Sudhir and Murthy 2004). The deleterious effect of high salinity damages is noticed at germination, seedling stage, and other stages of plants life that lead to a significant decrease in growth, yield, and finally death of the plants. About 19.5% of total irrigated lands and 2.1% of total cultivated drylands are salt-affected throughout the world (FAO, 2016). \r\nCitrus is one of the most important members of the Rutaceae family considered a major household item in the world of the fruit juice industry. The genus citrus consists of different species like mandarin, oranges, grapefruit, lemon, and lime with small categories as tangerine, pummelos, and tangelos, widely grown in the subtropical and tropical regions of the world (Chaudhary et al., 1989). It is one of the well-known fruits for their refreshing fragrance, providing an adequate amount of Vitamin C and phytochemicals like carotenoids, limonoids, flavanones, and Vitamin B complex that greatly pays off against cardiovascular and degenerative diseases, obesity, cancer, thrombosis, and atherosclerosis (Iglesias et al., 2007). For a particular area, while selecting fruit plants, rootstocks should be given careful consideration on which scion varieties are to be grafted or budded. Rootstocks affect the vigor, productivity, longevity, quality, and resistance to different diseases, insects, and pests of a scion variety. Rootstock should be adaptable to various soil and climatic conditions and resistant to different diseases and insect pests. Citrus is considered the top-ranked fruit of world production and is produced commercially in more than 50 countries. Citrus plants are considered to be sensitive to saline condition (Al-Yassin, 2005) due to the specific toxicity of Cl− and/or Na+ and to the osmotic effect caused by the high concentration of salts (Garcia-Sanchez et al., 2000) and plants face physiological disturbances and reduction in growth even at low to moderate exposure of salts. Semi-arid areas are preferable to citrus cultivation and in these areas soils and water contain many soluble salts like chlorides and sulfates which disturb the nutritional balance of plants resulting reduction in the growth and yield of citrus crops. The exposure of citrus to salinity causes serious physiological dysfunctions such as reduced leaf area, chlorotic or necrotic patches on leaves, delayed development, growth inhibition, and a limitation in development (Khoshbakht et al., 2018). Although Citrus species are classified as salt-sensitive (Mass1993), there is great variation in the ability of citrus plants to tolerate salinity depending upon rootstock (Zekri and Parsons 1992) and scion (Lloyd et al., 1990). The tolerance of the different species of Citrus can be determined by their capacity to exclude the potentially toxic Na+ and Cl− ions (Storey, 1995). Several approaches are used to mitigate the adverse effects of soil and irrigation water salinity but, a more permanent solution to this problem keeping in view the increasing utmost food demand of the world would be the use of salt-tolerant rootstocks. This study was aimed to investigate the performance of citrus rootstocks in terms of salinity tolerance; to find out the minimum level of salinity for better growth of citrus rootstock; to evaluate minimum toxicity symptoms of salinity stress on different citrus rootstocks.\r\nMATERIALS AND METHODS\r\nThe HRS, Bhubaneswar is located at latitude of 20°15’ N and longitude of 85°52’ E. It is about 60 km away from the Bay of Bengal and at an altitude of 25.5 meters higher than mean sea level (MSL), with an average rainfall of about 1628 mm. Meteorological data during the investigations collected from the Meteorological Observatory of the OUAT, Bhubaneswar. The experiment was conducted in Factorial Completely Randomized Design (FCRD) with six plants in each genotype. The matured fruits of 13 nucellar citrus genotypes namely Rough lemon 8779, CRH-12, Gajanimma, Rangapur lime –Tirupati strain, Rangapur lime - Texas strain, Sour dig, Sour orange 8751, Emmekaipuli, Chinnato Sour Orange, Carizo citrange, Balaji acid lime, Japanese Summer Sour Orange and Australian Sour Orange were collected from the trees of respective genotypes growing at AICRP on Citrus, Tirupati. The seeds from ripened fruits were extracted and washed thoroughly in running water and shade dried for five days. 100 g of healthy seed were collected and were used for sowing.\r\nPreparations of NaCl solution. To prepare different levels of salinity i.e., 25 mM, 50mMand 75 mM atomic mass of NaCl were multiplied with different salinity levels then divided with thousand and results were obtained in grams. i.e., 1.47 g, 2.94 g and 4.41 g then each level was dissolved in one liter of water. The electric conductivity (E.C.) of the media was determined before treatment application by taking random samples from the seedling transplantation media.\r\nGrowth measurements:\r\nPlant height. The height of randomly selected plants from each treatment was measured using the measuring tape and their average was calculated. Number of leaves plant 1. The number of leaves per plant was counted carefully after application of treatment and their mean were taken. Stem girth (mm) Stem thickness of randomly selected plants from each treatment in every replication was measured by using digital Vernier caliper and the average was computed. Single leaf area (cm2) of four leaves were randomly selected from all treatments of all replications and their areas were found through the graph paper method, then average leaf area per single leaf was obtained and recorded. Toxicity symptoms Toxicity symptoms like leaf tip burning, defoliation, yellowing, etc., particularly in the leaves were observed visually. Fresh weight and dry weight of shoots. All the shoots were detached and were weighed with the help of a digital electronic balance. The same shoot was then oven-dried at 80°C for 48 hours for measuring the dry weight. Fresh weight and dry weight of roots The roots were detached, then washed with tap water and weighed with the help of digital electronic balance. The same roots were then oven-dried at 80°C for 48 hours for measuring the dry weight. \r\nRESULTS AND DISCUSSION \r\nDays to emergence of first seedling. Days to emergence were recorded during two seasons, 2018-2019 and 2019-2020 and the following results were obtained.During, 2018-2019, days to emergence of first seedling depicted significant data (Table 1) among the genotypes ranging from 21.44 to 16.23. The maximum number of days for emergence was taken by G13 (21.44), followed by G6 (19.08). In contrast, least days were taken by G4 (16.23), followed by G9 (16.83). Among the salinity treatment levels, maximum number of days for germination was taken by the treatment, 75 mM NaCl + CaCl2 (19.15) against the control with 15.85. Least number of days for germination was taken by 25mM NaCl + CaCl2 (17.33). Pertaining to the interactions, maximum days were taken by G13 × 75mM NaCl (22.22), while least days were taken by G8 × 50 mM NaCl (15.40). In the following season (2019-2020), maximum days for emergence was taken by the genotype G13 (20.19) (Table 1), while minimum days by G4 (16.02), G8 (16.07) and G9 (16.74). Among the treatments, maximum days were taken by 75mM NaCl (18.78), followed by 75mM NaCl + CaCl2 (22.04) and minimum was taken by 25mM NaCl + CaCl2 (16.75). Regarding the interactions, G13 × 75mM CaCl2 (22.14), has taken maximum days for emergence, while least was tan by G4 × 50 mM CaCl2 (14.05).\r\nDays to 50% emergence. Significant data was recorded among the genotypes for days to 50% emergence in both the seasons. During 2018-19, the genotype G13 showed (Table 1) the maximum days (24) followed by G5 (23.06) and G9 (22.98) for 50% emergence, while the minimum days by G7 (19.30). Among the salinity levels 75MM CaCl2 recorded the maximum days (23.43) for 50% emergence, followed by 50mM NaCl + CaCl2 (22.77), while least percentage was recorded by 25mM NaCl (21.15) against the control with 19.34 percentage. Among the interactions the maximum days were occupied by G13 × 75 mM NaCl + CaCl2 (25.36), while minimum duration was observed in G7 × 50 mM NaCl (18.79), followed by G7 × NaCl (19.02). During 2019-20, in the Table 2 the genotype G8 showed maximum days (23.02), while minimum days for 50% emergence was showed by G7 (20.02), followed by G2 (20.70). Among the treatments, 50mM CaCl2 (23.43) occupied the maximum no of days. In contrast, least days were taken by 25 mM CaCl2 (20.92). Pertaining to the interactions, maximum days was seen in G12 × 50 mM CaCl2 (26.21), while least was seen in G11 × 25 mM CaCl2 (18.32).\r\nSeed germination is a crucial stage for survivability of any crop, mainly in those crops which are propagated by means of sexual reproduction. The existence and distribution of any plant species mainly depend on their ability to complete germination and the ability of seedling to survive in unfavorable situations (Zivkovic et al., 2007). Our results indicated that in the table number 1.1 Elucidates that, the maximum number of days for emergence was taken by the genotype (G13) Australian sour orange followed by (G6) Sour dig and (G5) Rangpur lime Texas strain which differs significantly from control.\r\nBut among the saline treatments 75 mM NaCl + CaCl2 took 19.15 days to germinate, which differs significantly from control (15.85). Days to 50% emergence the genotype G13 showed maximum days 24 followed by G5 (23.06 days) for 50% emergence, while the minimum days by G7 (19.30 days). Among the salinity levels 75mM CaCl2 recorded the maximum days (23.43) for 50% emergence.\r\nGermination percentage. In the season 2018-2019, max germination percent (Table 3) was observed in the genotype G4 with 94.16%, followed by G5 (86.69%), while least was observed in G2 with 45.32 %, followed by G7 (48.94%). Among the treatments, 25mM NaCl + CaCl2, depicted maximum germination percentage (79.39%), while least was observed in the treatment 75 mM NaCl + CaCl2 (31.44), followed by 75 mM NaCl (31.55%). The interaction, G4 × 25 mM NaCl and G5 × 25 mM NaCl + CaCl2 depicted maximum germination percentage (100 %) and minimum germination percent was seen in the interaction, G7 75 mM NaCl (8.90 %), followed by G7 × 75 mM NaCl + CaCl2 (11.05 %). During the season 2019-2020, maximum germination percent (Table 3) was observed in the genotype, G4 (91.39%). Minimum germination percent was observed in the genotype G2 (48.55%), followed by G10 (48.79%). Among the treatments, maximum germination percent was seen in 25 mM NaCl + CaCl2 (82.31%), while least was observed in 25 mM NaCl (21.20%). Among the interactions, G4 × 25 mM NaCl showed maximum percentage (100), while minimum germination percentage was obtained in the interaction G10 × 75 mM NaCl + CaCl2 (12.65) and G7 × 75 mM NaCl + CaCl2 (12.66). While, the maximum germination percent was observed in the genotype G4 with 94.16%, while least was observed in G2 with 45.32 %, followed by G7 (48.94). Among the treatments, 25mM NaCl + CaCl2, depicted maximum germination percentage (79.39), followed by 25 mM CaCl2 (77.40), while least was observed in the treatment 75 mM NaCl + CaCl2 (31.44). This may be due to the salt susceptibility variation among genotypes. This indicates the determinate effect of salt solution at higher concentration which delays the process of germination.\r\nPlant height (cm). The pooled data over two years of study presented in Table 4. Significant data was recorded among the genotypes. The maximum plant height was recorded in in the genotype G4 (5.09cm) followed by G12 (5cm) and G3 (4.92cm). The minimum plant height was recorded in G6 (3.79 cm). Among the salinity levels, 25 mM NaCl (4.64 cm) has recorded the maximum plant height followed by 25 mM CaCl2 (4.53 cm), whereas minimum plant height was recorded in 75 mM NaCl + CaCl2 (3.86 cm) against the control with 6 cm. Among the interactions the maximum plant height was recorded in the combination of G5 × 50 mM CaCl2 (5.67 cm), followed by G4 × 25 mM NaCl (5.65 cm) and G12 × 25 mM NaCl + CaCl2 (5.65 cm), while minimum was recorded in G2 × 75 mM NaCl + CaCl2 (2.12 cm), G11 × 75 mM NaCl + CaCl2 (3.10 cm) and G6 × 75 mM CaCl2 (3.20 cm).\r\nNumber of leaves. Number of leaves was in the range of 2.18 to 3.51 among citrus germplasm during 2018-19 and 2019-20 (Table 4). Significant data was recorded among the genotypes for number of leaves. The maximum number of leaves was recorded in G4 (3.51) followed by G5 (3.12). The minimum number of leaves was recorded in G2 (2.18).\r\n \r\nAmong the salinity levels, 25 mM CaCl2, recorded the maximum (3.41), followed by 50 mM CaCl2 (3.24), whereas minimum number of leaves was recorded in 75 mM NaCl + CaCl2 (1.70) followed by 75mM NaCl (2.21). Among the interactions the maximum number of leaves was recorded in the combination G4 × 25 mM NaCl and G4 × 50 mM CaCl2 (4.20), followed by G7 × 25 mM CaCl2 (4.16) and minimum was recorded in the interaction G9 × 75 mM NaCl + CaCl2 (1.22).\r\nRoot length. Pooled data (Table 5) of root length showed significant data among the genotypes and the maximum root length was recorded in G4 (5.50cm), while minimum was recorded in G2 (3.61cm). Among the salinity levels, 25mM CaCl2 (4.89 cm) has recorded the maximum root length. Whereas, minimum root length was recorded in 75 mM CaCl2 (3.02). Among the interactions the minimum root length was recorded in the combination of G2 × 75 mM CaCl2 (2.25 cm), while maximum was recorded in G4 × 25 mM CaCl2 (6.10).\r\nPlant fresh weight. The genotypes showed significant data for plant fresh weight (Table 5). The maximum plant fresh weight was recorded in G6 (1.34g) followed by G1 (1.32g). The minimum plant fresh weight was recorded in G10 (0.80g).Among the salinity levels 75 mM CaCl2 (1.26 g) recorded the maximum plant fresh weight followed by 25 mM CaCl2 (1.23g) whereas, minimum plant fresh weight was recorded in 75 mM NaCl (0.84g). Coming to the interactions the maximum plant fresh weight was recorded in the combination of G6 x 25 mM NaCl + CaCl2 (1.44g), while least plant fresh weight was observed in the combination G2 × 75 mM NaCl (0.36g), G10 × 75 mM NaCl (0.50g) and 75 mM NaCl + CaCl2 (0.55g).\r\nDry shoot weight. Significant data was recorded (Table 6) among the genotypes. The maximum shoot dry weight was recorded in G1 (0.33g) followed by G13 (0.30g) and G11 and G12 (0.30), while the minimum shoot dry weight was recorded in G10 (0.16g) followed by G2 (0.18g) and G8 (0.20g). Among the salinity levels, maximum dry shoot weight was observed in 25 mM NaCl (0. 30g), followed by 25 mM NaCl + CaCl2 (0.29g) and 50 mM NaCl (0.26g), whereas minimum was recorded by 75 mM NaCl + CaCl2 (0.17g). Among the interactions the maximum shoot dry weight was recorded in the combination of G1 × 25 mM NaCl + CaCl2, G1 × 25 mM NaCl (0.42g), while minimum was observed in the interaction, G2 × 75 mM CaCl2 (0.10g).\r\nDry root weight (g). Significant data was recorded among the genotypes. The data presented in Table 6 maximum root dry weight was recorded in G1 (0.26g). The minimum root dry weight was recorded in G10 (0.14g). Among the salinity levels 25 mM NaCl and 25 mM NaCl + CaCl2 (0.25) recorded the maximum root dry weight, whereas minimum root dry weight was recorded in 75 mM CaCl2 (0.13). \r\nPertaining to the interactions, the maximum root dry weight was recorded in the combination of G1 × 25 mM NaCl + CaCl2 and G6 × 5 mM NaCl (0.33g) followed by G7 × 25 mM NaCl (0.32g). In contrast, least minimum was recorded in G10 × 75 mM NaCl + CaCl2 and G8, G9 × 75 mM CaCl2 (0.08g).\r\nA plant undergoes different stages of growth and development during its entire life cycle and among these, seedling stage is the most vulnerable for its survival during adverse conditions. Citrus, being a salt sensitive crop (Abo-Rekab and Zeinab 2014), suffers severely during early stages of growth under salinity (Srivastav et al., 2007).\r\nOur results on growth and development of citrus rootstock seedlings under varying levels of salinity showed that salinity stress caused negative impact on their growth and biomass content including plant height, number of leaves, leaf area, intermodal length, fresh weight of shoot, fresh weight of root, dry weight of shoot, dry weight of root and stem diameter, which are documented in Table 4. The genotypes Australian sour orange, Sour dig and Sour orange 8751 showed less reduction in growth and biomass content while maximum was noted in Carizocitange, Chinnato sour orange and CRH-12. The adverse effect of salinity on growth and development of plant is because of two reasons as explained by Munns et al. (2006). The first reason is osmotic stress that causes an immediate effect on the water uptake capacity of plants, slowing down the growth. Second one is the entry of salts into the different plant parts which causes cell injury in the transpiring leaves with simultaneous effect on photosynthesis and growth morphology (Netondo et al., 2004). In the present studies it was observed that salinity stress caused severe scorching of leaves which led to their senescence and defoliation, due to retardation of nutrients supply and photosynthesis, which ultimately affected the plant growth. Forner-Giner et al. (2011) also confirmed that inhibition in cell division and cell expansion in growing tissues of roots, stem and leaves under salinity stress were collectively responsible for growth reduction in citrus. Several hormones (Auxin, Cytokinin, Gibberellins and Brassinolides) play an important role in cell elongation and division. Under salinity stress and the reduced concentrations of this growth regulating hormones inhibits the cell expansion (Zhu, 2001). With support of the above reasons, Rhodes (1994) stated that reduction in cytoplasmic volume and the impaired cell turgor pressure under saline conditions resulted in plant growth inhibition. We also found a reduction in the number of leaves, leaf area, stem girth and internodal length under varying levels of salinity stress. Roy et al. (2014) also found that graded levels of NaCl salt affected the plant height, stem diameter, number of leaves, leaf area and survivability of mango. Significant reduction in growth parameters (shoot length, number of leaves, leaf area, fresh and dry weight etc.) under salinity stress was also observed by Perez Tornero et al. (2009); Tsai et al. (2015); Sharma et al. (2013) in citrus microphylla, Pink wax apple, Sour orange and Citrus jambhiri respectively. Zhu (2001) noted that higher salt stress disrupted the water and ion homeostasis at the cellular and whole plant level and that this imbalance led to molecular damage, growth inhibition or sometimes death of the plant.\r\n','A. Srinivasulu, C.M. Panda, S.N. Dash, A. Mishra and R.K. Panda (2022). Evaluation of Citrus Rootstocks to Salinity Tolerance. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 14(3): 786-793'),(5366,'136','Growth and Yield Increments of Onion (Allium cepa L.) with Transplanting Dates, Cultivars and Zinc in Semi-Arid Conditions of Rajasthan','Gulab Choudhary*, L.N. Bairwa, O.P. Garhwal, A.K. Soni, M.R. Choudhary, D.K. Yadav, S.P. Singh, K.K. Meena and S.K. Bairwa','134 Growth and Yield Increments of Onion (Allium cepa L.) with Transplanting Dates, Cultivars and Zinc in Semi-Arid Conditions of Rajasthan Gulab Choudhary.pdf','',4,'Due to early and late transplanting of onion seedling, use of local seed and inefficient cultivars as well as inadequate nutrients are contributing factors to reduce marketable yield of onion. For optimal marketable bulb yield, ideal planting time is critical for better and efficient exploitation of plant resources. It is also a well-known premise that selection of cultivar seed is one of the most important variables in getting in higher growth and yield attributes. The experiment was conducted at Horticulture Farm, S.K.N. College of Agriculture, Jobner (Rajasthan) during 2020-21 and 2021-22 in Rabi season. The treatment combinations, was laid out in split-plot design with two transplanting dates (10th December and 01st January) and three cultivars (RO-01, RO-59 and Bhima Shakti) were kept in main plots. Four zinc (control, Soil application of zinc sulphate @ 25 kg/ha, dipping of seedling in zinc solubilizer before transplanting, foliar spray of zinc sulphate @ 0.5% at 30 & 45 DAT) were applied in sub plots. As per results transplanting on 01st January and Bhima Shakti cultivar with foliar spray of zinc sulphate @ 0.5% at 30 & 45 DAT siginificantly increased the growth, yield attributes and yield of onion i.e. plant height and number of leaves at 45 DAT, bolting percent, average bulb weight and marketable bulb yield in both years as well as in pooled analysis. Thus, findings were in conclusion that 01st January transplanting and Bhima Shakti cultivar with foliar spray of zinc sulphate @ 0.5% at 30 & 45 DAT have the potential effect to improve growth parameters as well as average bulb weight and marketable bulb yield of onion.','Cultivar, growth, onion, yield and zinc','The results of two years of experimentation and pooled analysis relieved that transplanting date 10th December and Bhima Shakti significantly increased plant height, number of leaves per plant, bolting per cent, average bulb weight and marketable bulb yield. Similarly, foliar application of zinc sulphate (0.5 %) recorded maximum plant height, number of leaves per plant, bolting per cent, average bulb weight and marketable bulb yield harvest.','INTRODUCTION\r\nOnion (Allium cepa L.) is one of the most important commercial crop not only in India but also in the world. It can be transported to a long distance without much transit injury losses. India ranks second in onion production contributing 13.31 percent of total vegetable production of the India. Production of onion in India is 26.64 million tonnes in area of 1.62 million ha (Anonymous, 2020-21). Onion is rich in protein, calcium, phosphorus and carbohydrates Bhattacharjee et al. (2013). The pungency in onion is due to a volatile oil known as allylpropyl disulphide. The outer skin colour is due to the presence of quercetin. Now a day, commercially prepared onion products include dehydrated flakes and powders usually made from white cultivars with high dry-matter content and onion oil is produced by distillation Currah and Proctor (1990). Dehydration of onion is required to provide a way for utilization during off-season and pretreatments are used to improve the quality attributes of onion slices. Onion is very sensitive to temperature and photoperiod. Therefore, the transplanting date play a vital role in determining the bulb yield. In North Indian conditions, sowing time of nursery is October to the middle of November and transplanting time of seedlings is from middle of December to January. Bolting and seed germination are dependent on temperature Corgan et al. (2000). Onion varieties differ in size, colour of skin, pungency and maturation of bulbs etc. Large sized bulbs are mild in pungency with sweet in taste as compared to small sized onions. Red coloured cultivars are more pungent than silver skinned varieties and keep better in storage. Various cultivars of the same species grown even in the same environment give different yields as the performance of a cultivar mainly depends on the interaction of genetic makeup and environment. \r\nTherefore, cultivators are not able to get desired growth and yield of onion only by management practices. Hence, application of zinc through zinc solubilizer, soil application and foliar application stimulate plant growth that enhances the biological efficiency of crops. The present investigation was conducted to know the \r\neffect of transplanting dates, cultivars and zinc on growth and Yield of Onion.\r\nMATERIALS AND METHODS \r\nThe experiment was conducted during 2020-21 and 2021-22 in rabi season at Horticulture Farm, S.K.N. College of Agriculture, Jobner (Jaipur) by laying out in split block design (SPD) with three replications consisting of twenty four treatment combinations. The treatment combinations, was laid out in split-plot design with two transplanting dates (10th December and 01st January) and three cultivars (RO-01, RO-59 and Bhima Shakti) were kept in main plots. Four zinc methods (control, Soil application of zinc sulphate @ 25 kg/ha, dipping of seedling in zinc solubilizer before transplanting, foliar spray of zinc sulphate @ 0.5% at 30 & 45 DAT) were applied in sub plots. The raised beds were prepared of size 3 × 1 m. The seed sowing was performed on 15th October and 03rd November of 2020 and 2021, respectively followed by light irrigations with the help of watering can. Nutrients like nitrogen, phosphorus and potassium were applied through urea, single super phosphate and muriate of potash, respectively. Healthy, uniform size and inoculated/no-inoculated seedlings different cultivars of onion of about 10 cm height were transplanted in the main field on 10th December of 2020 & 2021 and 01st January of 2021 and 2022. The plant spacing was kept 20 × 10 cm.\r\nZinc was applied by three methods viz. soil application of zinc sulphate, treating of onion seedling with zinc solubilizer and foliar spray of zinc sulphate. As per treatment combination, 25 kg zinc sulphate per ha was mixed in soil just before transplanting. Two foliar spray of zinc sulphate @ 0.5 percent after 30 and 45 days of transplanting. Suspension of 5 ml zinc solubilizer in 1 litre of water was prepared for treatment of seedlings and then dipped the roots of onion seedling in the solution for 10 minutes before transplanting. Five plants were tagged in each plot to record observations. Observations were recorded manually plant height, number of leaves, bolting percent, average weight of bulb and marketable bulb yield. The bolting percent and marketable bulb yield were calculated by using formula as given below:\r\nBolting (%) = \r\nMarketable bulb yield (q/ha) = \r\nRESULT AND DISCUSSION\r\nThe effect of two transplanting dates (10th December and 01st January) and three cultivars (RO-01, RO-59 and Bhima Shakti) combined with application methods of zinc (control, soil application of zinc sulphate at 25 kg/ha, dipping of seedling in zinc solubilizer before transplanting and foliar spray of zinc sulphate @ 0.5%) was studied to understand the growth and yield attributes of onion. The results obtained are presented in Table 1 & 2.\r\nEffect of transplanting dates on growth and yield parameters of onion. The result of present study (Table 1 and 2) clearly indicated that plant height (34.17 cm), number of leaves (5.20), minimum bolting percent (0.155), average bulb weight (81.10 g) and marketable bulb yield (360.00 q/ha) of onion in both the years as well as in pooled mean analysis increased significantly with delay transplanting, cultivars and zinc. This might be because of low average temperature in late transplanting during the growth period resulted in good foliage growth and formation of ample canopy able to enhance photosynthesis, hence increasing average bulb weight as well as bulbs yield per fad. Temperature and photoperiod are the major ecological factors influencing the growth and development of onion plant in all phases Coolong and Randle (2003). Prolong low temperature increases bolting and also the speed of the phenomenon Tarpaga et al. (2011). From early planting, bulb formation might have occurred earlier and thus may receive more induction, which resulted into higher number of bolter Nandpuri (1990). Increasing trend in yield attributes as noted with delayed transplanting might be due to more congenial climate and low temperature prevailing for long period provide favourable climatic condition for bulb development and genetic makeup.\r\nSimilar findings have been reported by Nayee et al. (2009); Jilani et al. (2010); Mohanta and Mandal (2014); Ali et al. (2016 b) in onion.\r\nEffect of cultivars on growth and yield parameters of onion. The results (Table 1 and 2) showed that significantly increased the plant height at 45 DAT (33.52 cm), number of leaves at 45 DAT (5.14), bolting percentage (0.182), average bulb weight (79.37 g) and marketable bulb yield (361.10 q/ha)of onion in cultivar Bhimashakti as compared to RO-01 cultivar. However, it is found statistically at par to RO-59 cultivar in case of all above growth and yield parameters in pooled mean analysis. This might be due to primitive effects of varietal genetic makeup affects to vegetative growth which ultimately lead to more photosynthetic activities and enhancing the rate of cell division and cell enlargement of plants Dwivedi et al. (2012). Each cultivar has its own specific characteristics and accordingly variation in these parameters may be attributed to genetic difference of cultivars. Onion cultivars may have different morphological and biochemical characteristics that affect the biomass accumulation among different storage and vegetative parts and the average bulb weight within cultivars was due to their genetic variability, reported by Jilani and Ghaffoor (2003).\r\nSimilar results were also reported by Devi et al. (2014); Tarai et al. (2015); Utangi et al. (2015); Gosai et al. (2018); Ganiger et al. (2018)in onion and Thakur et al. (2022) in coriander.\r\nEffect of zinc on growth and yield parameters of onion. The maximum and significantly better values of growth attributes of onion like plant height at 45 DAT (34.77), number of leaves per plant at 45 DAT (5.26), bolting percentage (0.145), average bulb weight (79.68 g) and marketable bulb yield (357.58 q/ha) were recorded under foliar application of zinc sulphate @ 0.5% over rest of the treatments except soil application of zinc sulphate at 25 kg per ha which was found statistically at par in pooled analysis. This might be due to the stimulating effect of zinc sulphate in cell division and cell elongation. It is effective for the synthesis of plant hormones like auxin and carbohydrate formation Pankaj et al. (2018). The potent reasons responsible for superior performance of growth, yield and yield attributes might be due to supply of nutrients in available form. The increased growth parameters provided greater sites for photosynthesis and diversion of photosynthates towards sink. Foliar application of zinc also helpful for matching to the need of plants Abedin et al. (2012).\r\nThese results are in conformity with the findings of Tohamy et al. (2009); Samad et al. (2011); Bhat et al. (2018) in onion.\r\n','Gulab Choudhary, L.N. Bairwa, O.P. Garhwal, A.K. Soni, M.R. Choudhary, D.K. Yadav, S.P. Singh, K.K. Meena and S.K. Bairwa (2022). Growth and Yield Increments of Onion (Allium cepa L.) with Transplanting Dates, Cultivars and Zinc in Semi-Arid Conditions of Rajasthan. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 14(3): 794-797.'),(5367,'136','Growth and Yield Increments of Onion (Allium cepa L.) with Transplanting Dates, Cultivars and Zinc in Semi-Arid Conditions of Rajasthan','Gulab Choudhary*, L.N. Bairwa, O.P. Garhwal, A.K. Soni, M.R. Choudhary, D.K. Yadav, S.P. Singh, K.K. Meena and S.K. Bairwa','134 Growth and Yield Increments of Onion (Allium cepa L.) with Transplanting Dates, Cultivars and Zinc in Semi-Arid Conditions of Rajasthan Gulab Choudhary.pdf','',1,'Due to early and late transplanting of onion seedling, use of local seed and inefficient cultivars as well as inadequate nutrients are contributing factors to reduce marketable yield of onion. For optimal marketable bulb yield, ideal planting time is critical for better and efficient exploitation of plant resources. It is also a well-known premise that selection of cultivar seed is one of the most important variables in getting in higher growth and yield attributes. The experiment was conducted at Horticulture Farm, S.K.N. College of Agriculture, Jobner (Rajasthan) during 2020-21 and 2021-22 in Rabi season. The treatment combinations, was laid out in split-plot design with two transplanting dates (10th December and 01st January) and three cultivars (RO-01, RO-59 and Bhima Shakti) were kept in main plots. Four zinc (control, Soil application of zinc sulphate @ 25 kg/ha, dipping of seedling in zinc solubilizer before transplanting, foliar spray of zinc sulphate @ 0.5% at 30 & 45 DAT) were applied in sub plots. As per results transplanting on 01st January and Bhima Shakti cultivar with foliar spray of zinc sulphate @ 0.5% at 30 & 45 DAT siginificantly increased the growth, yield attributes and yield of onion i.e. plant height and number of leaves at 45 DAT, bolting percent, average bulb weight and marketable bulb yield in both years as well as in pooled analysis. Thus, findings were in conclusion that 01st January transplanting and Bhima Shakti cultivar with foliar spray of zinc sulphate @ 0.5% at 30 & 45 DAT have the potential effect to improve growth parameters as well as average bulb weight and marketable bulb yield of onion.','Cultivar, growth, onion, yield and zinc','The results of two years of experimentation and pooled analysis relieved that transplanting date 10th December and Bhima Shakti significantly increased plant height, number of leaves per plant, bolting per cent, average bulb weight and marketable bulb yield. Similarly, foliar application of zinc sulphate (0.5 %) recorded maximum plant height, number of leaves per plant, bolting per cent, average bulb weight and marketable bulb yield harvest.','INTRODUCTION\r\nOnion (Allium cepa L.) is one of the most important commercial crop not only in India but also in the world. It can be transported to a long distance without much transit injury losses. India ranks second in onion production contributing 13.31 percent of total vegetable production of the India. Production of onion in India is 26.64 million tonnes in area of 1.62 million ha (Anonymous, 2020-21). Onion is rich in protein, calcium, phosphorus and carbohydrates Bhattacharjee et al. (2013). The pungency in onion is due to a volatile oil known as allylpropyl disulphide. The outer skin colour is due to the presence of quercetin. Now a day, commercially prepared onion products include dehydrated flakes and powders usually made from white cultivars with high dry-matter content and onion oil is produced by distillation Currah and Proctor (1990). Dehydration of onion is required to provide a way for utilization during off-season and pretreatments are used to improve the quality attributes of onion slices. Onion is very sensitive to temperature and photoperiod. Therefore, the transplanting date play a vital role in determining the bulb yield. In North Indian conditions, sowing time of nursery is October to the middle of November and transplanting time of seedlings is from middle of December to January. Bolting and seed germination are dependent on temperature Corgan et al. (2000). Onion varieties differ in size, colour of skin, pungency and maturation of bulbs etc. Large sized bulbs are mild in pungency with sweet in taste as compared to small sized onions. Red coloured cultivars are more pungent than silver skinned varieties and keep better in storage. Various cultivars of the same species grown even in the same environment give different yields as the performance of a cultivar mainly depends on the interaction of genetic makeup and environment. \r\nTherefore, cultivators are not able to get desired growth and yield of onion only by management practices. Hence, application of zinc through zinc solubilizer, soil application and foliar application stimulate plant growth that enhances the biological efficiency of crops. The present investigation was conducted to know the \r\neffect of transplanting dates, cultivars and zinc on growth and Yield of Onion.\r\nMATERIALS AND METHODS \r\nThe experiment was conducted during 2020-21 and 2021-22 in rabi season at Horticulture Farm, S.K.N. College of Agriculture, Jobner (Jaipur) by laying out in split block design (SPD) with three replications consisting of twenty four treatment combinations. The treatment combinations, was laid out in split-plot design with two transplanting dates (10th December and 01st January) and three cultivars (RO-01, RO-59 and Bhima Shakti) were kept in main plots. Four zinc methods (control, Soil application of zinc sulphate @ 25 kg/ha, dipping of seedling in zinc solubilizer before transplanting, foliar spray of zinc sulphate @ 0.5% at 30 & 45 DAT) were applied in sub plots. The raised beds were prepared of size 3 × 1 m. The seed sowing was performed on 15th October and 03rd November of 2020 and 2021, respectively followed by light irrigations with the help of watering can. Nutrients like nitrogen, phosphorus and potassium were applied through urea, single super phosphate and muriate of potash, respectively. Healthy, uniform size and inoculated/no-inoculated seedlings different cultivars of onion of about 10 cm height were transplanted in the main field on 10th December of 2020 & 2021 and 01st January of 2021 and 2022. The plant spacing was kept 20 × 10 cm.\r\nZinc was applied by three methods viz. soil application of zinc sulphate, treating of onion seedling with zinc solubilizer and foliar spray of zinc sulphate. As per treatment combination, 25 kg zinc sulphate per ha was mixed in soil just before transplanting. Two foliar spray of zinc sulphate @ 0.5 percent after 30 and 45 days of transplanting. Suspension of 5 ml zinc solubilizer in 1 litre of water was prepared for treatment of seedlings and then dipped the roots of onion seedling in the solution for 10 minutes before transplanting. Five plants were tagged in each plot to record observations. Observations were recorded manually plant height, number of leaves, bolting percent, average weight of bulb and marketable bulb yield. The bolting percent and marketable bulb yield were calculated by using formula as given below:\r\nBolting (%) = \r\nMarketable bulb yield (q/ha) = \r\nRESULT AND DISCUSSION\r\nThe effect of two transplanting dates (10th December and 01st January) and three cultivars (RO-01, RO-59 and Bhima Shakti) combined with application methods of zinc (control, soil application of zinc sulphate at 25 kg/ha, dipping of seedling in zinc solubilizer before transplanting and foliar spray of zinc sulphate @ 0.5%) was studied to understand the growth and yield attributes of onion. The results obtained are presented in Table 1 & 2.\r\nEffect of transplanting dates on growth and yield parameters of onion. The result of present study (Table 1 and 2) clearly indicated that plant height (34.17 cm), number of leaves (5.20), minimum bolting percent (0.155), average bulb weight (81.10 g) and marketable bulb yield (360.00 q/ha) of onion in both the years as well as in pooled mean analysis increased significantly with delay transplanting, cultivars and zinc. This might be because of low average temperature in late transplanting during the growth period resulted in good foliage growth and formation of ample canopy able to enhance photosynthesis, hence increasing average bulb weight as well as bulbs yield per fad. Temperature and photoperiod are the major ecological factors influencing the growth and development of onion plant in all phases Coolong and Randle (2003). Prolong low temperature increases bolting and also the speed of the phenomenon Tarpaga et al. (2011). From early planting, bulb formation might have occurred earlier and thus may receive more induction, which resulted into higher number of bolter Nandpuri (1990). Increasing trend in yield attributes as noted with delayed transplanting might be due to more congenial climate and low temperature prevailing for long period provide favourable climatic condition for bulb development and genetic makeup.\r\nSimilar findings have been reported by Nayee et al. (2009); Jilani et al. (2010); Mohanta and Mandal (2014); Ali et al. (2016 b) in onion.\r\nEffect of cultivars on growth and yield parameters of onion. The results (Table 1 and 2) showed that significantly increased the plant height at 45 DAT (33.52 cm), number of leaves at 45 DAT (5.14), bolting percentage (0.182), average bulb weight (79.37 g) and marketable bulb yield (361.10 q/ha)of onion in cultivar Bhimashakti as compared to RO-01 cultivar. However, it is found statistically at par to RO-59 cultivar in case of all above growth and yield parameters in pooled mean analysis. This might be due to primitive effects of varietal genetic makeup affects to vegetative growth which ultimately lead to more photosynthetic activities and enhancing the rate of cell division and cell enlargement of plants Dwivedi et al. (2012). Each cultivar has its own specific characteristics and accordingly variation in these parameters may be attributed to genetic difference of cultivars. Onion cultivars may have different morphological and biochemical characteristics that affect the biomass accumulation among different storage and vegetative parts and the average bulb weight within cultivars was due to their genetic variability, reported by Jilani and Ghaffoor (2003).\r\nSimilar results were also reported by Devi et al. (2014); Tarai et al. (2015); Utangi et al. (2015); Gosai et al. (2018); Ganiger et al. (2018)in onion and Thakur et al. (2022) in coriander.\r\nEffect of zinc on growth and yield parameters of onion. The maximum and significantly better values of growth attributes of onion like plant height at 45 DAT (34.77), number of leaves per plant at 45 DAT (5.26), bolting percentage (0.145), average bulb weight (79.68 g) and marketable bulb yield (357.58 q/ha) were recorded under foliar application of zinc sulphate @ 0.5% over rest of the treatments except soil application of zinc sulphate at 25 kg per ha which was found statistically at par in pooled analysis. This might be due to the stimulating effect of zinc sulphate in cell division and cell elongation. It is effective for the synthesis of plant hormones like auxin and carbohydrate formation Pankaj et al. (2018). The potent reasons responsible for superior performance of growth, yield and yield attributes might be due to supply of nutrients in available form. The increased growth parameters provided greater sites for photosynthesis and diversion of photosynthates towards sink. Foliar application of zinc also helpful for matching to the need of plants Abedin et al. (2012).\r\nThese results are in conformity with the findings of Tohamy et al. (2009); Samad et al. (2011); Bhat et al. (2018) in onion.\r\n','Gulab Choudhary, L.N. Bairwa, O.P. Garhwal, A.K. Soni, M.R. Choudhary, D.K. Yadav, S.P. Singh, K.K. Meena and S.K. Bairwa (2022). Growth and Yield Increments of Onion (Allium cepa L.) with Transplanting Dates, Cultivars and Zinc in Semi-Arid Conditions of Rajasthan. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 14(3): 794-797.'),(5368,'100','Relational Analysis of Foodgrains and its Seed Production in India: Current Scenario and Future Prospects','Rajeev Kumar Srivastava and Sudhanand Prasad Lal','106 Relational Analysis of Foodgrains and its Seed Production in India Current Scenario and Future Prospects SUDHANAND PRASAD LAL.pdf','',1,'In the current study the status of foodgrains and its seed production in India was tried to be figured out. A positive trend in production of foodgrains during last 10 years was recorded from the period of 2010-11 to 2019-20. Various tools and techniques were used to analyze the secondary data viz., descriptive statistics, Compound Annual Growth Rates, Cuddy-Della Valle Instability Index and Correlational Analysis. Production and Irrigation was flabbily significant at 20% level and it implied that with better strategies; production can be achieved even without much irrigation coverage. The research concludes that Decadal Production growth rate of foodgrains was relatively high which is commendable at 1.95% CAGR. But, pulse productivity is 3.75 times less than the Rice-Wheat. The production crossed the landmark of >25 MT in 2017-18 but in 2020-21 also India is the net importer of Pulse. So, it’s high time to ‘act on pulses now’. ','Decadal analysis, Foodgrains, Green Revolution, Pulses Revolution, Seeds','The research concludes that Decadal Production growth rate of foodgrains was relatively high which is commendable at 1.95% CAGR. But, as the yield ratio of Cereal to Pulse is 3.75 and from this it can be inferred that Pulse productivity is 3.75 times less than the Rice-Wheat. The production crossed the landmark of >25 MT in 2017-18 but in 2020-21 also India is the net importer of Pulse. So, it’s high time to ‘act on pulses now’ as pulse and cereals diets combination is best and cost effective diet in whole world. Innovative, multifaceted strategies, collaborations, and technologies for increasing productivity and expanding the production area are required to meet the predicted 33 MT of pulse demand by 2024. In furtherance, collective action, convergence, and capacity building with an integrated extension approach may help to realize the desired yield of pulse. Finally, only the integrated application of chemical fertilizers and organic manures can restore the soil\'s fertility and boost rice, wheat and other cereals crop output in both quantity and quality.','INTRODUCTION\r\nIndia\'s economy is centered on agriculture and allied sectors, and 70% of its rural households depend on it (FAO, 2021). India\'s arable land (% of total land area) was reported to be 52.61% of the total geographical area in 2018 (World Bank, 2021). This indicates that India has a great deal of opportunity for utilizing agricultural resources for current and long-term food security. During the Green revolution, India initiated using several high-yielding varieties (HYVs) of cereals around 1965 (2nd five-year plan). It involved the inclusion of various techniques comprising seeds of HYVs, chemical fertilizers, pesticides, pump sets, combined harvesters, tractors, threshers etc. The food grain production growth was about 2.4% per annum before 1965, but it had been increasing at the rate of 3.5% after 1965 (Bowonder, 1979). According to the third advance estimates for 2020–21 published by the Directorate of Economics and Statistics (DES), the nation\'s total foodgrain production is projected to reach a new height with 305.44 million tones i.e. an increase of 7.94 million tones (MT) over the 297.50 MT during 2019–20. Additionally, foodgrain production in 2020–21 is greater by 26.66 MT than the average of the preceding 5 years (2015–16 to 2019–20) production. A total of 121.46 million tonnes of rice are expected to be produced overall in 2020–21, which is a record production. It exceeds the 112.44 million tonnes average production over the previous 5 years by 9.01 million tonnes. \r\nThe production of wheat is anticipated to reach a record 108.75 million tonnes in 2020–21. Compared to the production of 100.42 million tonnes (MT) on average, it is 8.32 million tonnes higher. Nutri/coarse cereal production is projected to be 49.66 MT, which is higher by 1.91 MT than the 47.75 million tonnes produced in 2019–20. Furthermore, it exceeds the average production by 5.68 million tonnes. The predicted 25.58 million tonnes of the total production of pulses in 2020–21 is an increase of 3.64 million tonnes from the average production during the preceding five years, which was 21.93 million tonnes (DES, 2021). As per the International Year of Millets (IYoM) 2023 portal, Millets should be marketed as \"nutri cereals\" rather than \"coarse grains,\" and their advantages should be made known to the general public through a concerted, effective campaign. To promote millets for nutrition security, India proclaimed 2018 as the National Year for Millets. India has also taken the lead role in the celebrations of the International Year of Millets 2023. A subsidiary programme of the National Food Security Mission is NFSM-Nutri Cereals. There is a total of 25 nutri-cereals seedhub in India (IYoM, 2021). A total of ₹ 8760.81 crores have been sanctioned to the states and the other operational institutions as a central share between 2014–15 and 2019–20. Following the program\'s national adoption and coordinated efforts by the state governments and the Indian government; as a result, the production of all foodgrains increased, rising by 17.71% from 252.02 MT in 2014–15 to 296.65 MT in 2019–20. Foodgrain productivity grew from 2028 kg/ha to 2325 kg/ha from 2014–15 to 2019–20, respectively (i.e. 14.64% raise). The production of pulses, which enhanced by almost 35% from 17.15 million tonnes (2014–15) to 23.15 million tonnes (2019–20), is specifically commendable (PIB, 2021). \r\nThe key ingredient for increasing agricultural productivity is the seed. Utilizing high-quality seeds can increase yield by 15 to 20 per cent (Seednet, 2021). As a result, increasing the replacement ratio of the high-quality seeds from hybrids or high-yielding varieties is crucial to improving agricultural output rates. Thus, the seed industry would need to expand considerably more quickly in order to fulfill the growing demand for the different hybrid seeds and also to switch out outdated types for new, high-yielding ones. The Indian Seed Programme plays an instrumental role in the agriculture of India and is well positioned for future expansion (NITI Aayog, 2018). According to DA&FW (2021), India\'s total breeder seed production was 92.7 thousand quintals in 2019-20, a decrease of 11.56 thousand quintals over the 104.26 thousand quintals realized during 2018–19. The production of breeder seed in 2019-20 is lesser by 6.62 thousand quintals than the average production during the preceding 5 years (2014–15 to 2018–19). But the production of foundation seed was 22.25 lakh quintals in 2019-20, which was 4.25 lakh quintals higher than the last year. Moreover, it exceeds the average production of the previous five years (2014–15 to 2018–19) by 4.18 lakh quintals. In 2019-20, the total amount of distribution of certified/quality seed was 383.72 lakh quintals, which was an increase of 63.31 lakh quintals over the last year. Even it was 58.08 lakh quintals greater than the preceding five years (2014–15 to 2018–19) average distribution. Therefore, among the breeder seeds, foundation seeds, and certified/quality seeds, the production of breeder seeds is in a decreasing trend. If we see the current status of the requirement and availability of different seeds. In that case it can be observed that the production of all the cereals, pulses, and oilseeds was in a bountiful position. The availability of seeds for the cereal crops was 257.07 lakh quintals, which was 33.08 lakh quintals higher than its total requirement of 223.99 lakh quintals in 2019-20. Similarly, the availability of the seeds for the production of pulse crops in 2019-20 was 4.23 lakh quintals higher than its requirement of 35.16 lakh quintals in the country. The requirement for oilseeds was 55.50 lakh quintals. For the oilseeds, the amount of seed availability exceeded the amount of seed requirement by 7.64 lakh quintals. In the last two years (2017-18 and 2018-19) also, the availability of seeds for all the cereal, pulses and oilseeds was greater than its actual requirement. If one look at the last eight years\' trend (2012-13 to 2019-20) of the requirement and availability of quality/certified hybrid seeds of various food crops like paddy, maize, jowar, bajra etc., the seeds available are always higher than the seeds required (DA&FW, 2021). Therefore, it can be assumed that presently there is no scarcity of crop seeds in India. It could happen because different seed crop zones have developed with high specialization levels over time. Likewise, India\'s seed processing or conditioning industries have acquired the processes of quality upgrading and upkeep to maintain the high standards of physical condition as well as quality for post-harvest handling. Various geographical regions in the nation have flourished as the optimal storage places for seeds under circumambient conditions as a result of the varied agro-climates. There are more than 20000 seed dealers as well as distributors working in the seed marketing and distribution industry. The various seed corporations under the public sector will maintain to hold a central position in the production of seeds for cereal crops, pulse crops and oilseeds in the upcoming years as the private sector has not been optimistic about approaching the high volume and low margin crop seed production of paddy, wheat, other cereals, pulses and oilseeds (NITI Aayog, 2018). The Seed Replacement Rate (SRR) and productivity are directly proportional. There is a poor seed replacement rate in India as a result of the enormous demand-supply disparity. Only approximately 15% of the net total cropped area of India is currently sown each year with newly acquired and high-quality seeds. Farm-saved seeds are used for sowing a sizable 85 percent of the region. This percentage ranges from 7% for staple crops to a maximum of 70% for various vegetables and fruits, depending on the crop. Between 9 and 18 per cent applies to rice and wheat (Lal et al., 2019). Vegetables, fruits, flowers, and varied high value/ expensive seed crops can all get their hands on seeds, but the low value/large volume crops like rice and wheat don\'t get nearly enough of them (NITI Aayog, 2018; Srivastava, 2018). As per FAO observation, the production of India is cereal-centric, resource-intensive, and regionally biased even though Indian agriculture has attained grain self-sufficiency. Serious sustainability challenges have also been brought up by the resource-intensive methods used in Indian agriculture. Restructuring and reconsidering policy would be necessary given the country\'s increasing demand for its water supplies. Agriculture in India is also seriously threatened by desertification and land degradation (FAO, 2021). Considering these facts and figures in the backdrop, it was sensed that foodgrains production measurement is a key factor to ensure sustainability of livelihood security in a long term. In light of this, the current study was executed with the following three objectives: i) To execute the decadal analysis of food grain in India ii) To figure out the relationship of foodgrains production and irrigation percentage and iii) To perform Relational Analysis of foodgrains and its seed production in India. \r\nMATERIALS AND METHODS\r\nIn this research secondary data was used to quantify Relational Analysis of foodgrains apropos seed production in India from the primary data collected by Department of Agriculture, Cooperation and Farmers\' Welfare, Government of India. Analysis of data that has already been acquired by others is referred to as secondary data analysis. Various tools and techniques were used to analyze the secondary data as mentioned below: \r\nCompound Annual Growth Rates to compute Decadal growth of Foodgrain\r\nCAGR was used to compute Decadal growth of Foodgrain Production in (Million Tonnes) in India. Log linear functions were used to determine CAGR since it is the apposite functional form as explained by Gujarati in 1988 (Gujarati, 2009; Joshi et al., 2021). The function was used to calculate CAGR in numerous more investigations. The formula to calculate CAGR is:\r\nCAGR=(V_initial/V_final )1/t-1\r\nWhere,\r\nCAGR = Compound Annual Growth Rate \r\nVinitial = initial value \r\nVfinal = closing value\r\nT = time in years.\r\nCuddy-Della Valle Instability Index to compute instability\r\nInstability analysis in Decadal growth of Foodgrain Production in (Million Tonnes) in India was figured out through Cuddy Della Valle Index. Coefficient of Variation measures instability but it exaggerates the level of it in time-series data. The Cuddy Della Valle Index (Cuddy & Valle 1978) de-trends and pinpoints the exact direction of the instability (Nimbrayan et al., 2019). \r\nThe equation is mentioned as follows \r\nCDVI=I=CV*√(1-AdR^2 )\r\nCuddy-Della Valle-Instability index (%)\r\nI = Instability Index (in %)\r\nCV = Coefficient of variation (in %) \r\nAdR2 = Adjusted \r\nR-Square = Coefficient of determination\r\nCorrelational Analysis between foodgrains production and irrigation percentage\r\nFinding out whether two or more variables are connected is the rationale of correlational analysis (Marczyk et al., 2005). Here, correlational analysis was used to compute relationship between top 12 major foodgrains producing states in 2019-2020 along with coverage under irrigation. The equation is mentioned as follows \r\nr=(∑(x_(i )-x ̅ ) (y_(i )-y ̅ ))/(√(∑〖(x_(i )-x ̅)〗^2 ) ∑〖(y_(i )-y ̅)〗^2 ) \r\nr = correlation coefficient\r\nx_(i )= values of the x-variable in the present study\r\nx ̅ = mean of the values of the x-variable\r\ny_(i )= values of the y-variable in the present study\r\ny ̅ = mean of the values of the y-variable.\r\nRESULTS AND DISCUSSION \r\nA. Growth Performance of foodgrain in India\r\nThe growth performance of production of foodgrain was calculated by using compound annual growth rate (CAGR) for the year 2010-11 to 2019-20. Decadal Production growth rate of foodgrains was relatively high which is commendable at 1.95% CAGR. The implementation of new technology for growing foodgrains viz., the use of high yielding cultivars, improved packages of practices, and improved infrastructure for farming, may be the plausible cause of this humongous growth. Fig. 1 denotes that over the course of 10 years i.e. from 2010-11 to 2019-20 the foodgrain production grew from 244.49 to 296.65 Million Tonnes thus having the praiseworthy compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 1.95 %, when the country has almost reached the plateau of foodgrain production. It can also be deduced that the range of foodgrain production was from 244.49 MT in 2010-11 to 296.65 MT in 2019-20 (Fig. 1). The contributing factor to this humongous foodgrains production may be due to scaling up of indigenous science-led technologies, policy initiatives, extension machinery efforts and measures to ensure food and nutritional security across the country.\r\nB. Instability index in production of foodgrain in India\r\nThe Instability index in production of foodgrain was computed by using Cuddy- Della Valle index. The result indicated that the instability index of production was high i.e. 69.99%. The ranges of CDVI are Low instability = between 0 and 15; Medium instability= >15 to 30 and High instability => 30 (Tambe et al., 2021). High instability was due to the fact that production increased from 244.49 to 296.65= 52.16 MT over a period of 10 years.\r\nMajor Foodgrains Producing States and corresponding Irrigation Coverage\r\nAfter studying the production relationship it was tried to figure out which state is contributing the most to food basket of India. From Table 2 it is evident that top 3 major food grain producing states are Uttar Pradesh (55.03 MT) trailed by Madhya Pradesh (33.03 MT) and Punjab (30.02 MT). Top 11th and 12th foodgrain producing states were from South India i.e. Tamil Nadu (11.04 MT) and Telangana (11.02 MT) thus contributing 296.65 MT into the nation. Further it was tried to figure out the relationship between Production and Irrigation and it was revealed that there was a weak significant relationship between Production and Irrigation at 20% level and it was found to be non-significant at classical 1%, 5% and 10% level. The statistical finding is also supported by figures presented in Table 2. In top 5 foodgrains producing states viz., Madhya Pradesh and West Bengal has irrigation coverage of less than 60% and in Rajasthan it is <1/3rd.\r\nProbability Output estimation of Top 12 major Foodgrains Producing States\r\nProbability Output is denoted through Normal Probability Plot for Production vs Sample Percentile. From Fig. 2 it is evident that only 3 states viz., Uttar Pradesh, Madhya Pradesh and Punjab has sample Percentile >30 units. \r\nCrop-wise Requirement and Availability of Certified/Quality Seeds\r\nIf we see the current status of the requirement and availability of different seeds. In that case it can be observed that the production of certified seeds of all the cereals was in a bountiful position. The availability of seeds for the cereal crops was 257.07 lakh quintals, which was 33.08 lakh quintals higher than its total requirement of 223.99 lakh quintals in 2019-20. Similarly, the availability of the seeds for the production of pulse crops in 2019-20 was 4.23 lakh quintals higher than its requirement of 35.16 lakh quintals in the country.\r\n','Rajeev Kumar Srivastava and Sudhanand Prasad Lal (2021). Relational Analysis of Foodgrains and its\r\nSeed Production in India: Current Scenario and Future Prospects. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 13(2): 726-731.\r\n'),(5369,'136','Different Approaches for Extraction of Oil from Diatoms for Biofuel Production: A Review','Suman Jyoti Bhuyan, Suvechha Kabiraj and Umesh Goutam','135 Different Approaches for Extraction of Oil from Diatoms for Biofuel Production A Review Umesh Goutam.pdf','',1,'The increase in the consumption of fossil fuels have resulted in reduction of natural resources. Thus, hunt for alternate energy sources is getting much attention now a days. Hence, diatoms a class of photosynthetic microalgae available naturally are best suited class of microorganisms utilized for the production of biofuels. Because of their universal presence, ability to grow rapidly, diatoms can be utilized for production of biofuel. One most useful outcome out of these is biodiesel. “Biodiesel” used as a form of sustainable diesel fuel is derived from natural sources. Conventional approach involved in lipid production from diatoms and later transforming it into bio-oil includes list of stages such as cell harvesting and also involves application of stressed condition so as to maximize the assembly of lipids, cell lysis to extract out the lipid content, transformation of lipid content into biodiesel by the method of transesterification. The process of Extraction initiates with disruption of diatom cell wall and further the lipid extraction process can be carried out by performing several processes. Namely spontaneous oozing pulsed electric field, mechanical pressure, High-pressure homogenization, microwave oven and ball mill and so forth. Out of all microwave oven and Solvent assisted ultrasound are considered as effective process for cell wall disruption however for extraction of lipids above mentioned procedures utilizes high energy input and also it is hard to scale up. Diatom-based biofuel comes under third-generation biofuel which ultimately contribute approximately 60 to 90% less greenhouse gases as compared to traditional fuel sources. Extraction steps in biofuel production needs to be renewed because it sometimes causes destruction in entire diatom biomass. The extraction and purification process yields organic wastes which results in demand of significant amount of energy inputs. So, it is preferable to develop eco-friendly purification processes in order to keep the diatom cells alive during extraction.','Diatoms, Biofuels, Microalgae, Transesterification, lipid','It has been acknowledged world-wide that first generation and second-generation biofuels, which are predominantly produced by terrestrial crops are insufficient to fulfil the universal energy demand, and hence researchers are in search for alternative sources for production of biofuel. Also for growing terrestrial crops the need for agricultural land will increase as well as demand for fertilizers will increase accordingly. Recently, third-generation biofuels that can be gained from microalgae are graving a lot of attention because of its capability to propagate on non-arable land and also gives high oil yield per area. Morphological as well as physiological variation among diatom species permits these cells to react rapidly to any kind of stress condition. The oil content of diatom cells relies upon the selection of the strain or species to be used for cultivation purpose, the culture parameters, such as nitrogen stress condition provided, intensity of light required for growth, framework selected for recovering biomass concentration, and particularly protocol selected for extraction of oil. Effectiveness of the withdrawal strategy relies upon various elements which have impact for the selection of best technique for cell lysis, plus the strain selected and nature of their cell wall, whether nonpolar or polar lipid present , beyond operational cost and energy costs. Microwave oven and Solvent assisted ultrasound are accounted as proficient process for cell disruption and how ever biofuel extraction process utilizes highly energy input as well as hard to perform scale up process. Primary method for developing biofuel production strategy from diatom lipids is to obtain it at inexpensive cost, via the selection of finest strain for cultivation and development of better cultivation strategy that permits maximum lipid yield. Terrestrial yields like corn, rapeseed, and soybean acts as primary feedstock for production of biodiesel. Sadly, utilization of food yields for the production of biodiesel causes competition among utilization of agricultural land and its utilization for producing biological fuel with a subsequent growth in food costs and potential biodiversity and habitat loss.\r\nFor obtaining sustainable as well as cleaner diatom fuels of profitable feasibility, attention must be set to extraction procedures which are eco-friendly also, with a smaller amount of solvent utilization, by increasing the biofuel quality and limiting energy as well as time utilization and steps for downstream processing. Solvents must be precisely evaluated keeping in view about effective way for extracting out lipid content to make the bio refinery techniques more practical, constructing bio-economy based on renewable resources.\r\nTherefore, production of bioethanol and biodiesel both the processes can be coordinated. This way, biodiesel can be obtained from fatty acids of microalgae and bioethanol can be obtained from de-fatted biomass (methyl solvent is swapped by ethyl solvent during transesterification process), rather than utilizing solvents derived from petroleum. Hence, the utilization of green solvents for microalgae extraction and biofuel production is significant for a successful economic, ecological, and such approaches can be useful in social production of multiple products over individual processes, under the idea of a bio refinery.\r\n','INTRODUCTION\r\n“Mother of origin of life”, the Ocean serves as the source for unlimited unique and precious organisms. Keeping this in mind Scientists and Researchers these days are looking forward to the solutions that satisfies human needs by making good use of the already available natural resources. The increase in human population and the expansion of these many growing populations towards the countryside adds up to a faster reduction in natural resources, which ultimately results in expanding the costs of these resources in commercial Market (Alexandratos and Bruinsma 2012). In order to deal with such hassle in growing populations and also reduction in the cost of resource, hunt for alternate pharmaceutical based product, food product, high value molecules (HVM), and also other energy sources, are getting much attention. Therefore, utilizing already available organisms such as diatoms are considered as remarkably promising source for production of biofuels out of all other microorganisms. There are also wide variety of characteristics which makes these diatoms better suited for the production of biofuel. Presence of diatoms globally (saline water, fresh water, in soil or on damp surfaces) gives diatom cells competitive advantage against all other microalgae, they are usually free living and unicellular, Diatom cells are surrounded by a rigid cell wall termed as frustule, Diatom cells show rapid growth under suitable conditions, biomass concentration doubles in a couple of hours, diatoms produce characteristic spores, Diatom growth can be controlled effortlessly by the accessibility of silicate, most importantly entire of their biomass can be utilized to productive use. Amongst all the advantages of a diatom-based, open pond system in production of biofuels are the instantaneous ability of utilizing available carbon dioxide and eliminating nutrients from various wastewater sources, although simultaneously, producing valuable fuels and other bio products (Wang and Seibert 2017). One most useful outcome out of these is biodiesel. Biodiesel which is used as a form of renewable diesel fuel, is mainly derived from natural sources such as fats and natural oils. Biodiesel additionally offers various benefits such as economic benefits, quality of fuel obtained, environment friendly, as well as energy safety benefits vs. petroleum diesel also named as petro diesel. Obtained Natural oils can be transformed into biodiesel with the help of a comparatively easy refining practice known as transesterification. Mentioned procedure utilizes sources such as animal fats, oil derived from vegetable, micro algal oils which are further forwarded for esterification process by utilizing alcohol (either one out of methanol or ethanol) in the existence of a catalyst (it can be either potassium hydroxide or sodium hydroxide) to further form fatty esters (either methyl ester or ethyl ester) (Vasudevan and Briggs 2008). \r\nDiatoms: Structure and Evolutionary origin. Diatoms are a class of eukaryotic microalgae, photosynthetic in nature which are not just found in the Bacillariophyta family, they are also found in other families namely (Chaetocerotaceae, Thalassiosiraceae, and Lithodesmiaceae etc.) Commonly organisms belonging to class Bacillariophyta is known for the presence of cell wall made up of hydrated silica. About more than 200 genera of existing diatoms and about one hundred thousand of living species are recorded (Round et al., 1990). Entire of diatom lineage is commonly distributed into two orders: centric diatoms which are symmetrically radial and the other order is of pennate diatoms which are symmetrically bilateral (d’Ippolito et al., 2015). Centric diatoms are again subdivided into polar centric and non-polar centric, while the second order comprises of the classes namely Fragilariophyceae and Bacillariophyceae classified on the basis of the existence of raphe or lack of a raphe (Mann 1999). Diatoms characterized as a microalgae, eventually these diatoms are unique in different traits in relation to wide range of various eukaryotes which are photoautotrophic in nature (Armbrust et al., 2004; Saade and Bowler 2009; Smith et al. 2012; Obata et al. 2013). The presence of cell wall in diatoms, which is considered as utmost characteristic cellular feature. Diatoms cell wall is made up of silica, with complicated designs and having different symmetry within their cell wall made up of silica. Usually, diatoms size ranges between 20-200 microns in length, mainly majority of the species ranges in between 10 and 50 μm (Hildebrand et al. 2012). It has already been proven earlier that diatoms have various characteristic features making them best alternative for large scale-based bio-fuel cultivation (Singha et al., 2022). \r\nThe evolutionary story for diatoms is somewhat complex; early evidences puts forward that at a certain point in the evolution of plant cell progenitor, a Chlamydial invasion took place (Becker et al., 2008). As reported at an earlier stage in the evolution of life on the earth, diatoms were believed to be originated from photosynthetic scale covered cells. Since then diatoms are further categorized into major morphological forms (an event occasionally known as the big-bang theory of evolution). Later on this diversification was followed by a relative stasis period till existing day (Round 1981). There are also evidences reporting that nuclear genes of green algal biomass are found in secondary endosymbiont (Moustafa et al. 2009), which proposes an existence of endosymbiotic event with green alga. Genomes of diatom additionally contain rich numbers almost up to 5% of genes which are from bacterial origin belonging to different bacterial classes, and nearly more than half of these genes are shared between two diatom groups which are evolutionarily diverse, namely Thalassiosira pseudonana and Phaeodac tylumtricornutum (Bowler et al., 2008). Consequently, genomes of diatom, and their resultant metabolomes, are a complicated combination of components derivative of sources which are exceptionally dissimilar (Bowler et al. 2008; Finazzi et al., 2010). The four groups of diatoms divided on the basis of their silica cell wall features are: 1) Radial centrics, 2) Bipolar centrics and multipolar centrics, 3) Araphid pennates, 4) Raphid Penates. Every single cell of these group arose and later differentiated sequentially under decreasing CO2 concentration and this event took place during Mesozoic era (Armbrust, 2009). Early fossil evidences shows that larger eukaryotic phytoplankton of the lineage red algae over the Mesozoic era, comprising coccolithophorids, diatoms, and dinoflagellates, banished a greater percentage of other algal group residing in the ocean, mainly very small green algae and cyanobacteria (Falkowski et al. 2004). Additionally, some initial reports recommended that the most important source of carbon for fossil fuels were diatoms. During the main carbon export period coccolitho-phorids in addition dinoflagellates were considered as the leading variety of phytoplankton. In recent times, diatoms are liable for an enormous part of the natural carbon covered on continental margins and are significant supporters of nascent petroleum reserves.\r\nBIOFUEL PRODUCTION FROM DIATOMS\r\nBiofuels from diatoms, could be basically obtained by means of two routes. The first method is to thermochemically convert the entire biomass fraction into bio-crude oil such as crude oil and the next is directly extracting out lipid content and later sent for processing into biofuel. Though the second method is the conventional mode of technology so far, but the first route is attaining motion because it has some positive advantages. Another fact of concern, is: what is the percentage of oil content in a diatom cell? In order to find out the oil content the most important step is to find out everything related to available lipids including all unsaturated fatty acids forms and forms of saturated fatty acids, followed by extraction process, and lastly quantify the oil content (Jha and Zi-Rong 2004). Along with selecting the best approach to maximize bio products it is very important to select a suitable strain which can give high yield. It is most popular that by choosing specific species and by manipulating the provided supplements in growth medium, the oil production of microalgae can be affected. It has been found that under conditions where organisms grow under nitrogen starvation, Chaetocerosgracilis triacylglycerols can account for more than 70% of total cell volume (Syvertsen, 2001). Measurement done because of per weight is much preferable, but this discloses additional possible problem associated with prevailing processes of algal biofuel production. Algal cells growing under nutrient starved condition will support in obtaining maximum lipid content, but this is only possible if we extend microbial growth period. This affects the overall productivity of the manufacturing process per unit area over time. Algae that are not exposed to stressful conditions can grow rapidly, but the resulting lipid content is limited. Additionally, a large difference among lipids is establish in diatoms, few of them are extra chloroplastic phospholipids and membrane associated glycolipids. Significantly within a species the quantity of these lipids may differ, it can also be determined by the provided culture conditions along with the method of cultivation. Therefore, increasing the lipid content of diatoms, including other microalgae, is costly, which requires much more additional culture time to maximize the lipid content under stress conditions. Evidently, if our main aim relies upon bio crude production, then the organic carbon content of diatom must be exploited, and not essentially the lipid content (though content of lipid can affect bio crude quality, in algae at least). The warning is that bio crude would need to be moved up to a fuel-grade item (this should be possible in a petroleum processing plant, however, requires H2 input), though bio-oil (lipid that is upgraded) requires limited processing before it can be used as a fuel. In general, the method of lipid production from diatoms or algae and later conversion into bio-oil involves series of steps shown in Fig. 1.\r\nEXTRACTION OF OIL FROM DIATOMS FOR BIOFUEL PRODUCTION\r\nPlastic Bubble Wrap approach for culturing diatom cells: Recently studied on Employing newly developed plastic bubble wrap technique for biofuel production from diatoms cultivated in discarded plastic waste and concluded that diatoms serves as the best source for Diafuel i.e. biofuel extracted from diatoms. The main aim of the mentioned study was to culture diatom cells in a closed system and this was done by tightly sealing the reactor rim with plastic bubble wrap and cheap priced plastic material which are disposed of in a lodging and transportation of goods. In order to optimize it, different plastic wraps disposed of from a plastic industry were sent first for their permeability test to gases and impermeability to water loss. As a result it was found that among all the plastic bubble wrap varieties LDPE (low density poly ethylene) used for sealing glass containers as photo bioreactors allowed harvest highest cell count of (1152 × 102 cells mL−1), maximum Diafuel (37%), lipid (35 μgmL−1), maximum CO2 absorbance (0.084) with nutrient uptake for 40 days and nearly no water loss was observed. In order to check the usability of Low density poly ethylene on other microalgae Haematococcus pluvialis example of red green microalgae demonstrated scope to be extended for production of astaxanthin utilizing disposed bubble wrap plastic. Results of this study may be beneficial for a new way to decrease plastic disposal and the application of diatoms for biofuel production (Khan et al., 2022).\r\nThe extraction as well as fatty acid and lipid analysis from diatoms varies in comparison to other entities, such as foods and vegetable oils, because they possess stiff cell wall, and variety among different classes of fatty acids as well as lipids. Therefore, precise approaches should exist for cell lysis and to release out the lipids and then converting these lipid content into biofuels. The method for lipid extraction must be speedy, effective and subtle so that degradation of lipid content can be reduced and also have to be feasible economically. The process of biofuel extraction begins with the destruction of the diatom cell wall, and the lipid extraction process can be carried out in a variety of ways. The cytolysis process is an essential step in extracting oil from diatoms for biofuel production. \r\nSpontaneous oozing: Researchers has already discovered a diatom strain known as Diadesmis confervacea that not only accumulates high amount of oil (14.6%) but also extracts oil naturally almost near the 31st day of culturing in in- vivo conditions, when the cells attain maturity which is very important in the area of economical biofuel production (Bongale and Gautam 2012). It was also proposed that diatoms be confined at stationary phase of growth in solar panels in which they would keep on delivering organic compounds appropriate for biofuel in the form of droplets of oil (Ramachandra et al., 2009), otherwise known as lipid droplets or oleosomes. Spontaneous oozing significantly reduces the cost of algal fuels, as separation of the oil from the diatom cells has previously been an expensive as well as fuel requiring process, and now because of spontaneous oozing it is easier to design diatom biofuel solar panels. The overall protocol for spontaneous oozing can be carried out by Sample collection followed by culturing (the water sample should be first studied for its species richness and further inoculation onto cultured media such as f/2 solid agar medium, appearance of mixed colonies under different cultured conditions, the mixed colonies of cultured diatoms further serially diluted to obtain axenic cultures. Every day the respective plates observed for the presence and size of oil globules in the diatom cells. The exocytosis of oil from the diatom cells is looked for on each day after their inoculation. Cell counting followed by estimation of oil content with the help transesterification method. Fatty acid methyl esters shortly known as (FAME) can be analyzed by GCMS and tested using TLC (Bongale and Gautam 2012).\r\nPulsed electric field (PEF): PEF also termed as Pulsed electric field uses high voltage, short electrical pulses and a uniquely planned treatment chamber to permeabilize cell membranes. There are two particular uses of PEF to algal development and processing - extraction of intracellular material and microalgae predator population control. Pulse electric field processing can possibly give lower costs and higher efficiency for the process of biofuel production, high-esteem specialty chemical compounds from large scale farms cultivating algae, also animal and human feed and nutritional supplements.\r\nAlgal products mostly nowadays depend on solvent extraction processes and drying process to reach out final commercial end product. Extraction processes such as freeze drying and separation done with the help of supercritical Carbon dioxide are intrinsically energy intensive and costly also, restricting the market for microalgae items. Pulsed electric field has been demonstrated by various analysts to lyse various number of microalgae species via electroporation, which delivers their intracellular substance into the neighbouring solution. The main advantage of algal cell wall lysis through Pulsed electric field is to form those intracellular materials that might include lipids, proteins and different chemicals, accessible for downstream processing into precise products. It is very important to adjust the physical parameters as the outcome of pulsed electric field is dependent on cell size (the smaller the cell size will be, the stronger the electric treatment should be) (Coustets et al., 2015; Sixou and Teissié 1990; Bellard and Teissie 2009). \r\nPEF won\'t fundamentally help in the separation or extraction of intracellular compounds that are found within the cell wall, nonetheless, such extraction process needs a mixture of concentration (to eliminate the water from the algal development media), drying, and chemical treatments. The step performed for drying is very energy consuming and in this way expensive process. Leaving this drying step, and empowering wet extraction, is one of the essential advantages of PEF. \r\nMechanical Stress: We can exert outward mechanical pressure on Algal cells lacking a natural oozing mechanism, it can be either done by applying ultrasound or touch, which helps in forcing High Value Molecule to come out of the cell. Ultrasound has been utilized in order to improve extraction processes of carotenoids Haematococcus pluvialis (Ruen-ngam et al., 2010; Zou et al., 2013), Dunaliella (Macías-Sánchez et al., 2009; Pasquet et al., 2011), chlorophyll Chlorella sp. (Kong et al., 2014) and lipid Chlorella vulgaris (Araujo et al., 2013). As ultrasound effects can be harmful sometimes and can cause death (Rajasekhar et al., 2012) or stimulate programmed cell death (Broekman et al., 2010), nonviable cellular damage one of the features of ultrasound treatment ought to be selected for keeping the cells alive and, hence, be competent for incorporation in a milking protocol. Diatom cells are known for their unique features of being enclosed in a hydrated cell wall made of silicon dioxide which is denoted as frustule. Also every diatom cell possess imperfect bilateral symmetry subsequently resulting in one of the frustules somewhat bigger than the other, allowing one valve to fit inside the edge of the other. Due to this and frustule robustness, mechanical strategies could provide an exceptionally strong strategy that supports the discharge of high value molecule outside the cell surface. \r\nIn order to carry out this option, selected diatom cells should be first harvested and further positioned on a stiff surface in water and place a 18×18 mm2 coverslip, slightly put some stress with the help of a microbial needle (Vinayak et al., 2015). Insure that stress should be applied on the coverslip mid region till water comes out. Water content that flows out persisted at the coverslip edge on the slide. Perform Visual screening of the diatom population residing under the coverslip and document the variations (cell wall lysis, release of oil outside the cell surface). Alive diatom cells are not damaged visibly with the application of mechanical stress in the cover slip and oil discharge from certain species like Terpsinoë musica is already documented and as a result it was found Terpsinoë musica cells were kept in incubater for 7 days and after putting some mechanical stress oil came out of the cell. The observations reported by the mentioned study shows that oil is released out of the cell via apical pore field, from where release of carbohydrates also takes place (Bahulikar and Kroth 2007).\r\nHigh-pressure homogenization: HPH is also known as the French press method. This cytolysis procedure utilizes hydraulic shear force which is produced when high-pressure biomass is sprayed down a narrow tube. (Kim et al., 2013; Dong et al., 2016). Because this process is a heat generating process, so it puts forward risk of average energy consumption, thermal degradation, and probability of scale up process.\r\nThis method involves high pressure homogenizer, where two liquids are dispersed one is considered as aqueous phase and the other one is oily phase. Or finely divided solids in liquid is attained by pushing their combination via an inlet orifice small in size along with high pressure almost 500 to 5000 psi, which put through the product into strong turbulence and hydraulic shear resulting in enormously fine particle of suspension. Depending upon the cell wall rigidity efficiency of high pressure homogenization in diatom cells differs between different species and may drop (Dong et al., 2016).\r\nBall Mill: A ball mill is made up of its hollow spinning metal cylinder filled of magnetic beads that serves as a crushing frame. As a result of this framework harm the cell wall, due to collision or friction, caused by rapid rotation of metallic beads. Harm that is brought by metallic beads can cause cell lysis within minutes without the use of any biomass preparation. While working open the lid of metallic cylinder and fill in the feedstock or cells of interest into the chamber (diatom cells should cover almost 60 percent of the cylindrical volume), cover almost 40 to 30 percent of the volume of cylinder with stainless metal balls, close the lid of cylindrical chamber, adjust the mill at critical speed that is 2/3rd centrifugation speed and switch on the mill to rotate. (In case of high speed the metallic balls will be thrown towards the wall of the chamber and no grinding will take place due to the action of centrifugal force whereas in case of low speed the ball mass will slide up into one another which may cause an inconsequential amount of size reduction). After size reduction of feed stop the mill, separate balls from desired product and finally recover desired product. Numerous factors that affect the rupture performance and the power intake of the method, e.g., the stirring speed, the form of the container, the size, type, and the amount of sphere. This method has benefits due to the simplicity of the tools and the quickness of the procedure. However, its scheduling necessitates an extensive cooling device simply to keep away from thermal degradation of the lipids (Kim et al., 2013; Mubarak et al., 2015; Prabakaran and Ravindran 2011; Halim et al., 2012).\r\nAccomplishment of ball mill as a pre-treatment process for extraction of lipid content is useful for few microalgae species. As recorded, extraction process carried out by ball mill method gave over 28% of lipids from Botryococcus sp., hence was found 20% superior as compared to ultrasound method along with solvent extraction. \r\nMicrowave oven: Fundamentally, microwaves are electromagnetic waves with wavelengths between one metre and one millimetre and frequency between 300 MHz and 300 GHz. Though, small-scale microwaves, approximately of range 2450 MHz are preferable for causing cell lysis in microwave oven (Kim et al., 2013; Balasubramanian et al., 2013). Microwaves used for lipid extraction from microbial cells is done with the help of waves causing cell wall breakage by inducing heat and interacting with molecules hence resulting in lipid molecules to drained from the cell (Mubarak et al., 2015; Pragya et al., 2013). Microwave aided heating system is quicker as compared to traditional heating because transmission of heat happens due to radiation rather than conduction/convection. This process is better option for polar solvents such as water that produces steams resulting in cell wall breakage, later releasing intracellular contents (Dong et al., 2016) and results to an effective lipid withdrawal technique. Due to generation of high temperature, certain products such as fatty acids, lipids can sometimes result in degradation. In that situation, it is essential to reduce process time and use cooling system which can avoid several bio products degradation. By means of microwave we can achieve a method with less demand for solvents and reduced extraction time, but needs high energy cost seeing its scale up process (Halim et al., 2012; Pohndorf et al., 2016). \r\nMicrobial lipids further used for the biofuel production via conversion process: Direct Transesterification\r\nDirect transesterification has been examined as a procedure of biodiesel producing strategy without even performing the steps of extracting and purifying oil (Liu et al., 2015; Griffiths et al., 2010; Zhang et al., 2015). Done on the presence of algal biomass, a catalyst and an alcohol, commonly acid, when combined together and heated at ultra-high temperature. Extraction process of lipid as well as transesterification process take place at the same time, and results in the production of biodiesel (Mubarak et al., 2015; Singh et al., 2014; Velasquez-Orta et al., 2012; Ehimen et al., 2010). Mentioned procedure can be performed out with dry or else with wet biomass (Liu et al., 2015; Suh et al., 2015). Direct transesterification process reduces the stages of biodiesel production, moreover decreases protocol cost as well as final cost. Left over biomass concentration separation from cell debris and biodiesel, additional alcohol and glycerol is done by via centrifugation or filtration methods (Chen et al., 2015). Direct transesterification can be utilized for finding out the composition of fatty acids and profile of fatty acids in lesser microalgae sample (Liu et al., 2015). The drawback of this process lies while conversion of lipids into fatty acids, lipids cannot be classified and evaluated into various classes, e.g., phospholipids, triacylglycerols, as well as glycolipids. If it is necessary to differentiate lipids into various classes, solvent extraction have to be performed (Griffiths et al., 2010). \r\nADVANTAGES AND DISADVANTAGES OF USING DIATOMS AS BIOFUEL\r\nStudies that specifically aims to find out the viability of diatoms for industrial scale biofuel production are confined and their efficiency varies by different ecological factors, quite a few comparative outcomes are existing under favourable culture conditions. Researches that are performed to compare the productivity of diatom cells at favourable culture conditions that varies in different ecological conditions are important to gather information on the ecological condition-driven biases and possibility of culture success. Very few information is available on particular strains that can be used for biofuel production. Media required for culturing diatom cells utilizes silica which ultimately results in increment of costs (Marella et al., 2019; Tan et al., 2018). Moreover, the soluble silica is found in the form of silicic acid in aqueous conditions. Which may result in the formation of complexes with metal ions, of which magnesium silicate forms a precipitation that adversely disturbs the culture system. \r\nDiatom cells are effectively developed in the aquaculture industry. Hence, making diatom cultivation for production of biofuel. Some research studies recommend that diatom based biofuel can be utilized in modern vehicles and engines also can be stored and burned in the same way as traditional fossil fuels (Eva-Mari, 2016; Bhagea et al., 2019). Enormous utilization of diatom based biofuel will give energy security, especially when fossil fuel supply is disrupted and affected. This can additionally help in bringing improvement to energy balance through domestic energy crops. Transportation leads to higher greenhouse gas emissions because of pollutants in fossil fuels, while diatom based biofuels can potentially address significant challenges with respect to emission and fuel quality. Diatom based biofuel is supposed to decrease emissions of cancer-causing compounds upto a range of 75% - 85% and is considered as more nontoxic to handle as compared to conventional fossil fuel because of its low volatility (Sharma et al., 2021). \r\nSilica from diatom can be obtained from a monoculture for additional useful properties that can have applications in nanotechnology. Diatoms are known to make nanostructured silica in variable shapes (Zgłobicka et al., 2021). Silica obtained from diatom cells in a production system can serve as a useful marketable product. Hence, along with the production of biofuel, diatom might give added benefits such as filtering materials it is because of porous nature of diatom frustules that makes it convenient sieving materials that can be used for separating very minute particles, silica known for its hygroscopic nature is utilized as neutral wormicides and natural insecticides (the contact of ghygroscopis silica with cuticle causes dehydration in the insect along with perforating the cuticle with sharply edged tiny particles, diatoms are also utilized in cosmetic industry prospected for amino acid synthesis, the abrasive nature of diatoms makes them useful for toothpaste, metal polish etc (Ahirwar et al., 2021). Hence, cultivation of diatoms in large scale and diatom based biofuel production can introduce multiple benefits in today’s demanding market.\r\n','Suman Jyoti Bhuyan, Suvechha Kabiraj and Umesh Goutam (2022). Different Approaches for Extraction of Oil from Diatoms for Biofuel Production: A Review. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 14(3): 798-806.'),(5370,'136','Phylogenetic Relationships Based on Morphological Characterization of Niger (Guizotia abyssinica (L.f.) cass) Accessions','Swati Saraswat and Rajani Bisen','136 Phylogenetic Relationships Based on Morphological Characterization of Niger (Guizotia abyssinica (L.f.) cass) Accessions Swati Saraswat.pdf','',1,'Niger despite being nutritionally rich is an underutilized trivial oilseed crop and considered as one of the orphan crops. The present experiment aims to characterize a hundred and three accessions of niger. The experiment was carried out using un-replicated Augmented Block Design for a period of two seasons conducted during Kharif, 2020 and 2021 at Project Coordinating Unit, All India Coordinated Research Project on Sesame and Niger (ICAR), JNKVV Campus, Jabalpur, M.P. Twenty-two morphological traits distinguished the niger accessions. Most of the studied traits showed a reasonably large amount of variation. Maximum variation was recorded in leaf shape, leaf color, leaf angle of branching, leaf length, leaf width, the color of ray floret, number of ray florets, number of nodes, seed shape, and seed color. Among the different traits assessed, the number of bracts showed 100% frequency. Higher frequency for medium seed length (96.12%), yellow color of disc floret (92.23%), elongated ovate seed shape (91.26%), serrate leaf serration of margin (91.26%), smooth seed texture (87.38), erect plant branching habit (86.40%), yellow color of ray floret (85.43%) and yellow pollen color (84.46%) was observed. Genetic diversity analysis using morphological traits grouped 103 accessions into five clusters. The maximum genetic distance was found between cluster II and Cluster IV genotypes, followed by Cluster IV and Cluster V. Therefore, good recombinants can be obtained on mating between genotypes of clusters II and IV. Results revealed divergent characteristics of niger accessions and indicated the presence of diversity in the collection studied. Studying these traits at the genetic level will be very important to breeders since these traits may be further useful for genotype identification. ','Niger, morphology, phylogeny, accessions','A huge variation is present in 103 accessions for different morphological traits. In our experiment, maximum accessions acquired serrate leaf serration of margin, erect plant branching habit, erect leaf angle of branching and presence of lodging tendency, and sparse stem hairiness concerning a trait of color. Maximum accessions were green in leaf color, purple in stem color, yellow in pollen color, yellow in the color of ray floret, yellow in the color of disc floret, and brown in seed color. Most accessions were having medium leaf length and leaf width, exhibited seven to eight ray florets, five bracts, ten to fourteen nodes, and medium internode length. Concerning trait of shape, maximum accessions were medium in leaf shape, elongated ovate seed shape, small diameter of capitula, and medium seed length with smooth seed texture. Genetic diversity analysis using morphological characters was done, and hundred and three Niger accessions were grouped into five clusters. The maximum genetic distance was found between cluster II and Cluster IV genotypes, followed by Cluster IV and Cluster V. So, good recombinants can be obtained on mating between clusters II and IV. The present experiment indicates the presence of diversity in the collection. Studying these traits at the genetic level will be very important to breeders and researchers to identify and conserve favorable genes for crop improvement programmes. ','INTRODUCTION\r\nNiger (Guizotia abyssinica (L.) Cass.) belonging to family Compositae is an oilseed crop grown in Ethiopia and India, accounting for about 50% of Ethiopian and 3% of Indian oilseed production (Getinet and Sharma 1996). Five of six species, including niger of the genus Guizotia, are native to the Ethiopian highlands. The species of the genus are diploid with 2n=30 chromosomes (Hiremath and Murthy 1992; Dagne, 1994). Niger is an annual dicot with epigeal germination, and seedlings have pale green to tan hypocotyls and cotyledons (Seegeler, 1983). It is usually grown on light, poor, coarse-textured soils (Chavan, 1961). It is a fully outbred species with a self-incompatibility mechanism (Chavan, 1961; Mohanty, 1964; Shrivastava and Shomwanshi 1974; Sujatha, 1993) and is entomophilous, particularly via bees (Ramachandran and Menon 1979).\r\nThe pale yellow niger seed oil has a nutty flavor and a pleasant odour (Getinet and Sharma 1996). The seed contains about 40% oil with a fatty acid composition of 75-80% linoleic acid, 7-8% palmitic and stearic acid, and 5-8% oleic acid (Getinet and Teklewold 1995). The Indian varieties contain 25% oleic acid and 55% linoleic acid (Nasirullah et al. 1982). The meal left after oil extraction is free of toxins but contains more crude fiber than most oilseed meals. Niger\'s oil, protein, and fiber content are affected by husk thickness, and thick-skinned seeds tend to contain less oil and protein and more fiber (Getinet and Sharma 1996).\r\nCharacterization is the description of plant germplasm. Morphological characters are easily observable, and characterization helps identify suitable genotypes, assist breeders in selecting diverse parents for breeding, and adopt effective breeding methodologies, which may aid in the genetic improvement of crops (Shilpashree et al., 2021). \r\nPhylogenetic relationships between various lines could be revealed using morphological characterization to limit recurring parents and benefit breeders in developing enhanced varieties with a broader genetic base (Thakur et al., 2022).\r\nConsidering the above point of view, the main objective of this experiment is to characterize the niger accessions based on their morphological traits.\r\nMATERIAL AND METHODS \r\nIn the present research, a total of 103 accessions (Table 1), including three checks (JNS-9, JNS-30, and JNS-28), were evaluated which were collected from Project Coordinating Unit, All India Coordinated Research Project on Sesame and Niger (ICAR), JNKVV Campus, Jabalpur, M.P., India. Spacing between row to row and plant to plant was kept at 45.0 cm and 15.0 cm. The experiment was conducted using an un-replicated Augmented Block Design for two seasons during Kharif, 2020 and 2021. The observations were recorded on 22 traits viz. leaf serration, leaf shape, leaf color, leaf angle of branching, leaf length, leaf width, stem color, stem hairiness, pollen color, the color of ray floret, number of ray florets, the color of disc floret, number of bracts, number of nodes, internode length, plant branching habit, the diameter of capitula, lodging tendency, seed shape, seed length, seed color, and seed texture. Twenty-two morphological traits have been considered essential for describing hundred and three niger accessions.\r\nRESULT AND DISCUSSION\r\nA total of 22 morphological traits of the niger accessions were studied and results revealed that a significant amount of variation was recorded in almost all the traits studied. Grouping and the frequency distribution of accessions have been provided in Table 2 and its discussion in this section.\r\nVarious taxa of dicotyledonous plants have leaves possessing regular and familiar patterns of architectural organization for example; the dicot plant can have its margin as entire, lobed, or toothed (serrate and dentate) (Hickey, 1973). The niger accessions were grouped as entire, serrate, and dentate based on leaf serration of margin. A maximum number of accessions were observed as serrate (94) followed by dentate (05) and entire (04). Gebeyehu et al. (2021) and Kumar et al. (2021) also observed same trait in their experiments on niger.\r\nThe leaf is of prime importance to the rape, substitute as the plant\'s power generator and aerial environmental sensor (Bylesjo et al., 2008; Efroni et al., 2010). The number, area, shape, and size of leaves are important to plant science, allowing scientists to distinguish between different species and even to model climate change (Cope et al., 2012). In the case of leaf shape, maximum accessions were medium (58), followed by broad (28) and narrow (17). Kumar et al. (2021) reported similar findings. \r\n\r\nThe intensity of the green color is a clear indication of Chlorophyll pigment in leaves. The leaf chlorophyll content is often well correlated with plant metabolic activity, e.g., photosynthetic capacity and RuBP carboxylase activity (Evans, 1983; Seeman et al., 1987), plant stress (Eagles et al., 1983; Fanizza et al., 1991), and leaf N concentration as well. In the study for the trait of leaf color, maximum green leaf color (76) was observed, followed by light green (19) and dark green (08). None of the accessions had very light green and dark green leaf colors. Gebeyehu et al. (2021), Kumar et al. (2021), and Rani et al. (2010) also used this trait as one of the criteria for characterization of genotypes in niger. \r\nBranch angle is a key morphological trait that shapes the canopy design and influences yield. Plants with effectively small branch angles exhibit compact canopy architectures, and these plants are, for that reason, more suitable for high-density planting (Wang et al., 2014), so a condensed canopy architecture maintains light capture under elevated densities by minimizing shade by adjacent plants (Sun et al., 2016). In the trait leaf angle of branching, maximum accessions were observed as having erect (acute) (52) followed by horizontal (39 accessions), erect (07 accessions), and 05 accessions were observed as having hanging branches. Kumar et al. (2021) reported similar findings. \r\nBased on length of leaf, accessions were categorized into three classes i.e. small, medium and long. Most accessions were observed as medium (81) followed by long (20) and small (02). In leaf width trait, a maximum number of accessions (77) were observed as having medium width followed by narrow (25) and broad (01).\r\nIn the case of stem color, most accessions (79) were observed as purple colored, followed by purplish green (19), and 05 accessions had green stem color. Rani et al. (2010), Kumar et al. (2021), and Gebeyehu et al. (2021) observed same trait for categorizing niger genotypes. Hairiness and pubescence are reported to be a usual defense mechanism for biotic and abiotic factors, and they are rich in defense-related proteins also (Amme et al., 2005). In the study for the trait of stem hairiness, maximum accessions were observed as sparse (81), followed by medium (17) and dense (04). None of the accessions were found to be glabrous (0). Gebeyehu et al. (2021), Ranjithkumar and Bisen (2021) and Kumar et al. (2021) also elucidated this trait.\r\nDiverse ﬂowers produce different carotenoids. The ﬂowers become intensely dark as the amount of pigment elevates (Miller et al., 2011). In the case of pollen color, most of the accessions (87) were observed as a yellow color, and 16 accessions were pale yellow. In the study for the trait of the color of ray floret, was observed maximum yellow (88) followed by pale yellow (10) and whitish yellow (05) in niger accessions. Kumar et al. (2021) reported similar findings.\r\nIn the inﬂorescence of the family Asteraceae, the capitulum comprises the ray ﬂorets (outer ﬂorets) and the disc ﬂorets (inner ﬂorets) and can be regarded as the basic pollination unit (Leppick1977). In the case of no. of ray florets, most of the accessions (79) had seven-eight ray florets, followed by more than eight ray florets (20) and up to six ray florets (04). Kumar et al. (2021) reported similar results. In the study for the trait of the color of disc floret, maximum accessions were observed as yellow (95), and eight accessions had purple-colored disc floret.\r\nIn the case of the number of bracts, all the accessions under study (103) were observed as having five bracts. None of the accessions had more than five bracts (0). In the case of the number of nodes, most of the accessions (50) had ten to fourteen nodes followed by more than fourteen nodes (35) and up to ten nodes (18). In the study of internode length trait, the maximum number of accessions (66) were observed as having medium internode length followed by small (32) and long (05).\r\nPlant growth habit is a significant agronomic trait since a dense ground cover affects the interception of light for photosynthetic buildup, the inhibition of weed development, and the decline of water evaporation from soil (Baum et al., 2003). In the case of plant branching habit, most accessions were erect (89), and fourteen accessions were drooping. In the trait of diameter of capitula, the maximum number of accessions (71) were small, followed by medium (29) and large (03). Gebeyehu et al. (2021) and Rani et al. (2010) elucidated this trait for characterization of niger germplasm. Lodging tendency was present in maximum accessions (60), followed by absent in 43 accessions. Rani et al. (2010) also explained this trait during their studies on the characterization of niger genotypes.\r\nIn the case of seed shape, most of the accessions were elongated ovate (94) followed by elongated (06) and ovate (03). Kumar et al. (2021) studied same trait and reported similar findings. In the case of seed length, maximum accessions were medium (99), followed by small (03) and large (01). All former researchers in sesame outlined seed coat color under digenic control with several puzzling segregants beyond possible explanation (Baydar and Turgut, 2000; Falusi, 2007). In recent times Zhang et al. (2013) using a high-density linkage map, analyzed the genetic segregation and quantitative trait loci (QTL) for sesame seed coat color and showed that two major genes with additive dominant- epistatic effects together with polygenes were answerable for controlling the seed coat color trait. In the trait of seed color, a maximum number of accessions (70) were brown, followed by dark brown (23) and black (10). Rani et al. (2010) and Kumar et al. (2021) also observed same trait in their experiments on niger. In the case of seed texture, most of the accessions were smooth (90), and 13 were rough.\r\nGenetic diversity analysis using morphological traits\r\nIn the present investigation, the genetic divergence of 103 niger accessions including 03 checks viz., JNS-9, JNS-30 and JNS-28. was determined by using nominal variables of morphological characters, which were used as an input for Nbclust hierarchical cluster analysis in which clustering was done using Ward’s minimum variance method and Euclidean’s method of genetic distance was derived. The Phylogeny tree was further constructed based on clustering using the igraph package. The dendrogram and phylogeny tree were constructed by using R studio software ver. 4.1.2.\r\n\r\nGrouping of genotypes into different clusters\r\nIn the present study, 103 niger accessions were grouped into 5 clusters based on analysis of divergence at the genetic distance of 10 (Table 3). The clustering of genotypes was grouped mainly by their morphological differences. Cluster V was the largest among all clusters comprising 61 genotypes. Cluster IV has 35 genotypes, Cluster II has five genotypes, and Cluster I and Cluster III have one genotype each i.e. monogenotypic.\r\nThe maximum genetic distance was found between the genotypes of cluster II and Cluster IV, followed by Cluster IV and Cluster V. So, good recombinants can be obtained on mating between clusters II ((PCU-32, PC-30, PCU-47, BMD-202, and BMD-204) and Cluster IV (BMD-197, BMD-219, AJSR-1, JNS-9, PCU-43, JNS-9, BMD-196, JNS-28, BMD-190, and AJSR-5). In contrast, the minimum genetic distance was found between cluster I and Cluster II genotypes, followed by Cluster I and Cluster III. As a result, on mating lines between those clusters, good recombinants may not be obtained. ','Swati Saraswat and Rajani Bisen (2022). Phylogenetic Relationships Based on Morphological Characterization of of Niger (Guizotia abyssinica (L.f.) cass) Accessions. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 14(3): 807-813.'),(5371,'136','Impact of different Vegetative Propagation Techniques in Guava \r\n(Psidium guajava L.) cv. Dhawal under Western U.P. conditions\r\n','Avdhesh Kumar, Arvind Kumar, S.K. Tripathi, Deepak Kumar, Vishal Gangwar1, Veersain, Siddharth Kumar, Upendra Maurya and Abhishek Chandra','137 Impact of different Vegetative Propagation Techniques in Guava Avdhesh Kumar.pdf','',1,'An Investigation entitled “Studies to identify suitable vegetative propagation technique in Guava (Psidium guajava L.) cv. Dhawal, under western U. P. conditions” was conducted at Horticulture Research Centre, Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel University of Agriculture and Technology, Meerut, Uttar Pradesh, to study the impact of different vegetative propagation techniques in Guava (Psidium guajava L.) cv. Dhawal. The present experiment comprising three treatments i.e., Inarching, Air Layering and Stooling were laid out in Randomized Block Design (RBD) with three replications. The experimental results revealed that the maximum Number of branches (10), Number of leaves (68), Shoot length (42 cm), Shoot diameter (7 cm), Leaf area (68 cm), Plant spread (22 cm), Canopy height (25 cm) and Survival per cent (81 %) was observed with Inarching method. So, it is concluded that the inarching significantly influenced the survival percent and growth parameter of guava among layering and stooling.','Guava, Dhawal, Inarching, Air Layering and Stooling','On the basis of results summarized above, it can be concluded that the inarching was found to be most superior in terms of the number of branches, number of leaves, shoot length (cm), Shoot diameter (mm), leaf area (cm), Plant spread (cm), canopy height (cm) and survival (%). However, the minimum was shown in stooling. So, this study concluded that the inarching is significantly influenced the survival percent and growth parameter of guava among layering and stooling. Thus, inarching is recommended as successful commercial propagation of guava under Western conditions of Uttar Pradesh.','INTRODUCTION\r\nGuava (Psidium guajava L.) is a native of Tropical America (from Mexico to Peru) and belongs to the family Myrtaceae. In guava, most of the commercial cultivars are diploid (2n=2x=22). However, Psidium guajava is the common guava cultivated commercially in India as well as in other countries. Plants are mostly small trees or shrubs. The short trunk produces branches near ground and gets suckers from roots near the base of trunk. The bark is smooth, scaly, greenish brown to brown in color and peeling off in flakes. Leaves are opposite in pairs, elliptical to oblong in shape and are evergreen becoming slightly reddish or purplish in winter. Upper surface of the leaves is glabrous and lower surface is finely pubescent. Flowers are produced in axils on the branches in current season growth and are white in color. Fruit type is berry, globose and pyriform. Fruit skin is pale green to bright yellow. Flesh is white, yellow, pink or red with embedded numerous small seeds. Besides its high nutritional value, it bears heavy crop every year and gives good economic returns. This has prompted several farmers to take up guava orcharding on a commercial scale (Singh et al., 2007).\r\nIn recent years, guava is getting popularity in the international trade due to its nutritional value and processed products (Singh, 2005). In view of the high return and potential for processing there is tremendous scope for bringing substantial additional area under this crop in India.\r\nDue to its delightful taste, flavor and availability for a longer period, guava is a popular fruit crop of India. Guava is the fourth important fruit crop after mango, banana and citrus. Guava is considered as “the apple of tropics”. Its cost of production is low because its irrigation, fertilization and plant protection requirements are very less. Further, its nutritive value is very high. This fruit crop is a rich source of vitamin C (ranges from 75-250 mg per 100g fresh fruits) and is approximately four times greater in winter than in rainy season. It also a good source of vitamin-A and B. The proximate composition of the seeds of white and pink fleshed varieties of guava fruits suggest that they are good sources of carbohydrates (11 to 13 %), fat (0.5 %), protein (0.71 %) and other minerals such as calcium; 29 mg, iron; 0.5 mg and phosphorus; 10 mg per 100 g fresh fruits. Dhawal variety of guava is developed by half-sib selection from Allahabad Safeda variety. Dhawal is high yielding variety of guava with large attractive fruits, sweet white pulp and seeds are soft and moderate in number.\r\nAt present besides India, the major guava growing countries in the world are Brazil, U.S.A., Mexico, Hawaii islands and Cuba. Brazil leads in area and production of guava in the world. Guava occupies nearly 255 thousand hectares area with 4048 thousand metric tons production in India.\r\nIt is widely grown in several states viz., Uttar Pradesh, Bihar, Madhya Pradesh, Maharashtra, Andhra Pradesh, Tamil Nadu, West Bengal, Assam, Orissa, Karnataka, Kerala, Rajasthan and Gujarat. Uttar Pradesh is one of the leading states where total area is 49.53 thousand hectares under guava cultivation with production of 928.44 thousand metric tons (Anonymous, 2018).\r\nUttar Pradesh is by far the most important guava growing state in India and Allahabad has earned the reputation of producing the best quality of guava in the country as well as in the world.\r\nGuava is a very popular fruit crop, yet its cultivation in our country has remained in a state of negligence. The non-availability of the quality planting materials and lack of efficient propagation techniques and other information on the performance of cultivars under different agro-climatic conditions of tropical and subtropical regions are the major constraints in the expansion of guava cultivation in India. In guava no systematic work has so far been done on their survivability and morphological performance in relation to propagation method\r\nGuava is propagated by both, sexual (seeds) and asexual (vegetative parts) methods of propagation. The propagation of guava through seeds should not be encouraged because the seedlings have long juvenile phase, give lower yields and bear poor quality fruits. \r\nVegetative propagation technique of guava is one of the most important practices that influence the vigor, productivity and quality of the fruits. Asexually guava can be successfully propagated by stooling, inarching, layering, cutting, grafting and budding. These methods have their own merits and demerits. Inarching is usually cumbersome and requires time and labour. It’s cutting, rooting and survival is very low. Budding has also been used to a limited extent, but air layering remains the best methods of propagation for this crop. On account of its safety, cheaper cost, rapid, simple and more convenient method with higher success and survival percentage, air layering is becoming more and more popular in India. It does not require any special technique as in the case of grafting and budding. \r\nMATERIALS AND METHODS\r\nThe present field experiment was carried out during the year 2021-22 in rainy season at Horticulture Research Centre, College of Horticulture, Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel University of Agriculture and Technology, Meerut, Uttar Pradesh. Geographically Meerut is located at latitude of 29° 40’ North and longitude of 77° 42’ East and at an altitude of 237 meter above mean sea level (MSL). The mean annual rainfall of the Meerut is about 840 mm, of which nearly 85 percent is received in the monsoon period from June to September and the remaining in the period between October to May.The uniform sizes, healthy and vigorous growth of seven years old mother plants of Psidium guajavacv. ‘Dhawal’ grown at Horticulture Research Centre were selected to check best mode of propagation for the cultivated variety Dhawal. The average length of branch was 60 cm with total 3 treatment combinations, each treatment having 25 inarching, air layering and stooling mode of propagation were applied based on the performance. Total 5 plants were selected from each treatment and average was taken based on the performance of each plant\r\nExperimental Design and Treatments. The experiment was conducted in Randomized Block Design (RBD) with three, treatment combination consisting three treatments i.e., Inarching, Air Layering and Stooling which were replicated three times.\r\nSelection of Plants and Branches. The uniform sizes, healthy and vigorous growth of seven years old mother plants of Psidium guajavacv. ‘Dhawal’ grown at Horticulture Research Centre were selected to check best mode of propagation for the cultivated variety Dhawal. The selected mother plants were grown under similar soil and environmental conditions. On these plants, all the horticultural practices were done and different modes of propagation were applied as per the propagation rules using well matured and healthy. The average length of branch was 60 cm with total 3 treatment combinations, each treatment having 25 inarching, stooling and air layering mode of propagation were applied based on the performance. Total 5 plants were selected from each treatment and average were taken based on the performance of each plant.\r\nRinging. A ring of bark about 5 cm in length was removed from selected shoot of guava just below the bud without injuring the inner wood.\r\nWrapping. Transparent polythene, 200 gauge of thickness was used as wrapping material.\r\nCovering for air layering. For both years in the month of July and August, the treated exposed portion of shoots was covered with rooting medias i.e., Soil: Sphagnum moss: Coco peat (1:1:1) and then wrapped with transparent polythene and tied with the help of gunny string. Control branches were layered without applying growth regulator.\r\nSeparation of Layers from Mother Plant. After 60 days from the date of operation, air layers were detached from the mother plants. When roots were visible from the transparent polythene covers, a cut was made justbelow the lowest end of the ringed portion with the help of sharp secateurs. After detachment of air layers, the twigs were brought under the shade of trees and their polythene wrapping was removed gently. Care was taken that the roots may not be injured while removing the polythene cover. For well establishment of air layers were transplanted into a polybag containing Soil, FYM and sand in the ratio of 2:1:1 and kept under for further observation.\r\nParameters of Study\r\nNumber of Branches: \r\nNumber of branches was counted based on the number of best branches which were developed healthy.\r\nNumber of Leaves. Numbers of leaves were counted based on per plants of the replications of different modes of propagation.\r\nShoot Length (cm). Shoot lengths of randomly selected five plants were taken with the help of scale from each replication where all the plants shoot length were measured to the tip of the shoot and average was found.\r\nShoot Diameter (mm). The width of Shoot in each treatment was measured in millimetres with the help of Digital Vermeer Calliper.\r\nLeaf Area (cm). Leaf area was taken in millimetre through using (Li-3000 portable area meter, Lincoln NE, United states by randomly selected plant sample. Total number of secondary roots per rooted layer was counted. While, the mean number of secondary roots per rooted layer was found from the concerned observation.\r\nPlant Spread (cm): \r\nThe plant spread was counted based on the 5 randomly plants taken from each replication. Where plant spread was measured at the widest part from leaf tip.\r\nCanopy Height (cm): Randomly from each selected replication from each treatment the height of different canopies was measured using meter scale.\r\nTotal survival percentage (%). The survival of propagated plants from mother plants was done after 60 days of different operation. The total number of successful layers under each treatment/mode of propagation was noted after 30 days of transplanting and survival and mortality percentage of layers was calculated by following formula: \r\nTotal survival (%) = Number of survival plants (best) /Total number of Plants propagated × 100\r\nRESULTS AND DISCUSSION\r\nIn present investigation, a significant difference has been observed among all the treatments and presented in Table 1. Number of Branches: Regarding the effects of various propagation of Inarching, air layering and Stooling was significant. The best results were observed under Inarching method(10) because of best compatibility towards the stock of the plant and hence for the variety Dhawal this method is best. Whereas, the number of branches were found minimum (30) in Stooling These findings also are in close conformity with earlier findings of Kakon et al. (2005).\r\nNumber of leaves: The number of leaves (68) was found significantly effective in respect with inarching. However, the number of leaves were found minimum (30) in Stooling. Similar results were also reported by several investigators such as Geoffery and Sani (2017); Raut et al. (2015).\r\nShoot Length (cm): Various propagation techniques of the inarching shows maximum (42 cm) shoot length which was found significant. Moreover, the minimum (24 cm) shoot length was found in stooling during the experimentation. These results were very closely related to Tyagi and Patel (2004); Geoffery and Sani (2017); Raut et al. (2015); Mandloi et al. (2019).\r\n Shoot Diameter (mm): The results indicated that the maximum (7mm) shoot diameter was found in air layering with minimum(5mm) shoot diameter in stooling. Similar results were also indicated to support the study with earlier findings of Gohil and Lele (2014); Raut et al. (2015); Mandloi et al. (2019).\r\nLeaf Area (cm): The significant difference were found in different propagation technique were maximum (68 cm) leaf area was found in Inarching. Moreover, the minimum (59 cm) leaf area was found in stooling. These findings also are in close conformity with earlier findings of Raut et al. (2015); Mandloi et al. (2019).\r\nPlant Spread (cm): The maximum (22 cm) plant spread was found in Inarching significant. However, the minimum (19 cm) results in plant spread were found in stooling. Similar results were also indicated to support the study with earlier findings of Raut et al. (2015); Mandloi et al. (2019).\r\nCanopy Height (cm): The maximum (25 cm) canopy height was found in Inarching significant. Whereas, the minimum (19 cm) results in canopy height were found in stooling. These findings also are in close conformity with earlier findings of Verma et al. (2019); Mandloi et al. (2019).\r\nTotal survival percentage (%): Results indicate that from different propagation techniques the better survival per cent (81 %) was found best in Inarching. However, the lowest survival per cent (65 %) was found in stooling in guava. Similar results were also indicated to support the study with earlier findings of Similar results were also indicated to support the study with earlier findings of Tryambake and Patil (2002); Tomar (2011).\r\n','Avdhesh Kumar, Arvind Kumar, S.K. Tripathi, Deepak Kumar, Vishal Gangwar, Veersain, Siddharth Kumar, Upendra Maurya and Abhishek Chandra (2022). Impact of different Vegetative Propagation Techniques in Guava (Psidium guajava L.) cv. Dhawal under Western U.P. Conditions. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 14(3): 814-817.'),(5372,'136','Studies on Mass Transfer Kinetics of Kokum based anthocyaninin fused osmo-Dehydrated Pineapple Cubes','Shridhar S. Channannavar, Thippanna K.S., K. Ramachandra Naik, Shiddanagouda Yadachi, Anil I. Sabarad and Abdul Kareem M.\r\n','138 Studies on Mass Transfer Kinetics of Kokum based anthocyaninin fused osmo-Dehydrated Pineapple Cubes Shridhar S.pdf','',1,'Bioactive compounds play an important role in functional food. Various bioactive compounds can be successfully infused into the solid food matrix by means of osmotic dehydration. The current experiment focused on the use of anthocyanin as a food colourant to infuse into pineapple cubes via osmotic dehydration and evaluated for changes in mass transfer kinetics and anthocyanin infusion. A study was conducted to develop kokum-based anthocyanin-infused osmo-dehydrated pineapple cubes using 5 levels (0, 40, 50, 60 and 100%) of kokum extract, 4 levels (6, 12, 18 and 24 h) of infusion time followed by 2 drying methods (solar tunnel drying and tray drying) to optimize the process parameters. Pineapple cubes infused with 60% kokum extract for 24 h followed by tray drying were found acceptable with superior sensory quality and anthocyanin content.','Pineapple, infusion, kokum, anthocyanin, Osmo-dehydration, mass transfer, drying','Among different combination of treatments pineapple cubes infused with 40% kokum extract for the duration of 12 hours recorded the maximum water loss, weight reduction and total solid. While, the superior quality pineapple cubes were prepared using 60% kokum extract infused for 24 h followed by tray drying with respect to overall acceptability and good amount of anthocyanin content.','INTRODUCTION \r\nPineapple (Ananas comosus. L.) belongs to the family Bromeliaceae (Nazaneen et al., 2015). It is one of the most prominent tropical fruits and is known as the “Golden Queen” all over the world due to its excellent taste and flavour (Sarkar et al., 2018). After banana and citrus fruits, pineapple is the world\'s third most important tropical fruit. India in stands sixth position (Nazaneen et al., 2015) among the world largest producer of pineapple contributing 8 per cent of global trade with the annual production of 1799 thousand metric tonnes (Anon., 2020). This fruit is highly perishable and only available during the season. Mature fruit contains 14 per cent sugar, bromelain- a protein digesting enzyme and a good amount of malic acid, citric acid, vitamin A and B. Pineapples can be eaten or served fresh, cooked, juiced, or preserved. Pineapple is used to make a variety of foods such as syrup, squash, jelly, and candy (Chaudhary et al., 2019). Osmotic dehydration, in combination with other drying technologies, allows for the production of novel shelf-stable types of high-quality pineapple products for both the domestic and export markets.\r\nOsmotic dehydration is a processing method used to obtain partially dehydrated foods. Food is placed in a concentrated hypertonic solution in such a way that a driving force for removal of water is established due to an osmotic pressure difference between the food and the solution in this operation. The food acts as a semipermeable nonselective membrane, allowing leaching of solutes from the fruit tissue into the osmotic solution. Osmotic processes are not only used to dehydrate products; they can also be used to introduce physiologically active components such as calcium, iron, or selenium, as well as preservatives or nutritional or sensory important compounds, into a product to improve its nutritional or functional properties without compromising their integrity.\r\nAnthocyanins are the most numerous and likely the important class of water-soluble natural pigments which imparts orange, red, purple and blue colours in many fruits, vegetables, flowers, leaves, roots and other plant organs. Anthocyanins are well-known for their pharmacological properties, which include antioxidant, anti-inflammatory and anti-carcinogenic activity. Phenolic from diverse sources are used as a food colouring agent. Anthocyanin\'s eye-catching colour and water solubility allow it to be incorporated into aqueous food systems, as well as potential health benefits, which considered anthocyanin as a potential replacement for synthetic colour (Nayak et al., 2009). The ripe kokum fruits of dark purple colour or red with yellow tinge having a pleasant flavour and a sour taste are good source of anthocyanins.\r\nKokum (Garcinia indica) is an underexploited tree also known as ‘Cool King’ of Indian foods, belongs to the botanical family Clusiaceae. The ripe fruits are sour to taste and have a short shelf life of approximately a week. The rind contains moisture (80.0 g/100 g), protein (1%), tannin (1.7%), pectin (0.9%), total sugars (4.1%) and fat (1.4%). The fresh fruit kokum contains 2.4 g per 100 g anthocyanins (Nayak et al., 2010). The main anthocyanins found in kokum are cyanidin-3-sambubioside and cyanidin-3-glucoside.\r\nFrom the past research it has been found that various bioactive compounds can be successfully infused into the solid food matrix by means of osmotic dehydration. The current study focused on the use of anthocyanin as a food colourant to infuse into pineapple cubes via osmotic dehydration therefore a study was conducted to optimize the process parameters for development of kokum-based anthocyanin infused osmo-dehydrated pineapple cubes.\r\nMATERIALAND METHODS\r\nThe investigation was carried out in the Department of Post Harvest Technology, College of Horticultural Engineering and Food Technology, Devihosur, Haveri (UHS, Bagalkot), Karnataka, during the year 2020-21.\r\nProcurement of raw materials: Pineapple variety Gaint Kew fruits were collected from the farmers field at Thogarsi, Shivamogga. Kokum rind was procured from Kadamba Marketing Souharda Sahakari Niyamita, Sirsi for infusion of kokum extract into the osmosed pineapple cubes.\r\nPreparation of sample: Fresh pineapple fruits with uniform maturity (60-70%), good colour and shape were selected. The fruits washed, weighed and de-crowned before the central core was removed with a pineapple corer, hand peeled with a knife and individual eyes were removed with scissors. The fruit is then cut into 15 mm thick uniform slices, which are further cut into 6-8 uniform cubes.\r\nPreparation of kokum anthocyanin extract: Dried kokum rind was washed and immersed in R.O. purified water in a 1:2 ratio. The mixture was slightly heated and left for 24 h to extract anthocyanin. The extract was filtered using muslin cloth. Total soluble solids in the kokum extract was found to be 22.5°Brix, which was raised to 60°Brix by adding sugar. The extract was stored in the refrigerator at 4-5°C and was drawn as needed for the experiment.\r\nOsmotic treatment for candy making process: Sugar syrup of 60ºBrix were prepared. To make 60°Brix concentration sugar syrup, 1.2 kg of sugar was mixed with 0.8 kg of water. While boiling the sugar syrup solution, citric acid (0.2%) was added and 0.1 per cent of potassium metabisulfite was added to sugar syrup after dissolving in little sugar syrup once the syrup was cooled. The pineapple cubes were subjected to osmotic treatment by boiling in prepared sugar solution for 15-20 min, followed by cooling for 24 h at room temperature. Cubes to sugar syrup ratio followed was 1:1.\r\nOsmotic treatment for anthocyanin infusion: The osmosed pineapple cubes were further subjected to impregnation with anthocyanin solution having 60°Brix at different concentration (40, 50, 60 and 100%) for a period of 6, 12, 18 and 24 h in each solution\r\nOsmotic treatment for anthocyanin infusion: The anthocyanin infused pineapple cubes were subjected to solar tunnel drying and tray drying to attain the optimum moisture level. The cubes subjected to drying in tray drier at temperature of 60°C for a period of 8 to 10 h. While, in solar tunnel drier with recorded average temperature of 35 and 55°C during morning and evening respectively, dried for 2 days. The methodology used for the preparation of kokum-based anthocyanin-infused osmo-dehydrated pineapple cubesare mentioned in Fig. 1.\r\nObservation recorded: The following physico-chemical parameters were recorded immediately after preparation of kokum-based anthocyanin-infused osmo-dehydrated pineapple cubes.\r\nWater loss (%): The weight of fresh fruit before and after osmosis was recorded in an electronic balance. The dry mass of fresh fruit and dry mass after osmosis were measured, and per cent water loss was calculated using the formula given by Sridevi and Genitha (2012).\r\n \r\nWO = Initial weight of fruit slices, Wt = Weight of fruit slices after osmotic dehydration\r\nS0 = Initial dry mass of fruit slices, St = Dry mass of fruit slices after osmotic dehydration\r\n \r\nSolid gain (%): It was determined using the procedure followed by Chavan et al. (2010).\r\nm = Dry mass of fruit after osmosis, mo= Initial dry mass of fresh fruit prior to osmosis\r\nWeight reduction (%): Weight reduction was calculated in terms of percentage using the method described by Yadav et al. (2011).\r\n \r\nMo= Initial mass of fruit slices prior to osmosis (g), M = Mass of fruit slices after osmosis (g)\r\nMoisture content (%) and total solids (%). The moisture content of fresh slices, osmosed slices, and osmotically dehydrated samples was calculated as a percentage. Ten grammes of sample were placed in a pre-weighed China dish and placed in a hot air oven at temperature of 105° for a period of 6 hour, with the weight recorded using an electronic balance. Drying was continued until consistent weights were observed between two subsequent weightings. Moisture content was determined on fresh \r\n \r\nweight basis. Total solids were calculated by subtracting moisture content from 100.\r\nTotal solids (%) = 100 - moisture content\r\nDetermination of Anthocyanin content (mg/100 g): Total anthocyanin content was estimated by using the method given by AOAC (1990).\r\n \r\n \r\nOrganoleptic evaluation: The organoleptic characters were evaluated by a panel of semi-trained judges consisting of teachers and post-graduate students of CHEFT, Devihosur, on a nine-point hedonic scale as per the method of Ranganna (2003).\r\nExperimental design: The data obtained from the experiment was analysed by using factorial Completely randomized design (FCRD). The interpretation of data was carried out in accordance with Panse and Sukhatme (1985). The level of significance used in the ‘F’ test was p=0.05.\r\nRESULT AND DISCUSSION\r\nA. Effect of treatments on mass transfer of water loss \r\nTable 1 shows data on percent water loss during osmotic infusion as influenced by different treatments. The pineapple cubes infused for 12 h with 40 per cent kokum extract recorded maximum water loss (47.44%). Further, mean value for maximum water loss (45.79%) was recorded in pineapple cubes infused with C2 (kokum extract 40%) for the factor concentration of kokum extract. During osmotic dehydration over the period of increase in infusion time increased the water loss (44.63%) upto 18 h of infusion for the factor infusion time. A close perusal of data indicates that increase in water loss percentage may be due to combination of dewatering and infusion which can modify the functional properties of food materials and also due to higher solute water exchange due to increase in concentration and duration of infusion. Similar results were reported by Katke et al. (2018) in sugarless amla (Phyllanthus emblica) candy, Tippanna et al. (2019) in pineapple slices. \r\nB. Effect of treatments on mass transfer of weight reduction\r\nThe kinetics of osmotic dehydration is affected by geometry and size of the food material. Maximum weight reduction of 27.50 per cent was obtained for cubes infused with C2 (kokum extract 40%) for the duration of T2 (12 h).Whereas, for the factor kokum extract concentration pineapple cubes infused with 40% kokum extract showed maximum weight reduction (26.13%) (Table 1). Increase in infusion time of pineapple cubes showed the decreasing trend in weight reduction up to T3 (18 h of infusion) with minimum weight reduction (21.65%) (Table 1). These results were in accordance with Khanom et al. (2015) in osmotic dehydration of pineapple cubes, Tippanna et al. (2019) in effect of osmotic dehydration on mass transfer kinetics in pineapple slices.\r\nC. Effect of treatments on mass transfer of solid gain\r\nSolid gain is an index of solute diffusion into the pineapple cubes and it has increased with increase in concentration of kokum extract and time. The highest solid gain (24.11%) was obtained in pineapple cubes with combination of treatments C4T4. Whereas, for the factor concentration of kokum extract maximum per cent of solid gain (22.59%) was observed in C4 (Table 2). Increase in surrounding solution concentration decreased the moisture content and significantly increased the solid content in osmotic dehydration process (Adsare et al., 2016; Chaudhary et al., 2018). Considering the factor time maximum solid gain (22.98%) was observed in T3. It may be due to mass transfer and final product quality of osmotically dehydrated products depends on several factors, such as tissue properties (Saurel, 1994; Fernandes et al., 2009); process time (Germer et al., 2010), apricot (Ispir and Togrul, 2009), cantaloupe (Fazli et al., 2006).\r\n\r\n \r\nD. Effect of treatments on mass transfer of total solid \r\nMaximum total solid of 37.05% was obtained for pineapple cubes with combination of treatments C1T3 (Table 2). Maximum per cent of total solid (33.41%) was observed in pineapple cubes infused with C2. Osmosis decreased the moisture content of pineapple cubes on the contrary facilitated the absorption of sugar and kokum extract by the cubes which ultimately increased the total solid content of osmosed pineapple cubes infused with kokum extract. Maximum total solid content (34.29%) was observed in T2 (12 h of infusion) (Table 2). These findings are also in conformity with observations made by other workers in case of mango (Duduyemi et al., 2016), apple (Abbasi et al., 2014), sapota (Gupta et al., 2014), strawberry (Nores et al., 2010).\r\nE. Moisture content\r\nThe pineapple cubes infused with plain sugar syrup (0% kokum extract) for 18 h recorded minimum moisture content (62.96%) (Table 3) pineapple cubes infused with kokum extract 40 per cent recorded minimum moisture content (66.59%). In the same way pineapple cubes osmosed for 12 h showed the minimum values for moisture content (65.71%). Similar results were noticed by Adsare et al. (2016) in osmotic treatment for the impregnation of anthocyanin in candies from Indian gooseberry (Emblica officinalis); sapota (Gupta et al., 2014), strawberry (Nores et al., 2010).\r\nF. Overall acceptability and Anthocyanin (mg/100 g)\r\nPineapple cubes infused with 60% kokum extract for 24 h followed by tray drying exhibited superior quality with respect to sensory values overall acceptability (8.75) (Table 5) and anthocyanin content (4.07mg/100 g) (Table 4). Increase in concentration of kokum extract significantly increased the anthocyanin content in pineapple cubes. Similar results reported by Adsare et al. (2016) in osmotic treatment for the impregnation of anthocyanin in candies from Indian gooseberry (Emblica officinalis), Bellary et al. (2016) in anthocyanin infused watermelon rind and its stability during storage.\r\n','Shridhar S. Channannavar, Thippanna K.S., K. Ramachandra Naik, Anil I. Sabarad, ShiddanagoudaYadachi and Abdul Kareem M. (2022). Studies on Mass Transfer Kinetics of Kokum based anthocyaninin fused osmo-Dehydrated Pineapple Cubes. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 14(3): 818-823.'),(5373,'136','Screening of Rice Genotypes for their Resistance against Brown Plant Hopper, Nilaparvata lugens (Stal) under Field and Glasshouse conditions','R. Prathima Kumari, Ch. Anusha, R. Shravan Kumar, K. Rajendra Prasad and Y. Hari','139 Screening of Rice Genotypes for their Resistance against Brown Plant Hopper, Nilaparvata lugens (Stal) under Field and Glasshouse conditions R. Prathima Kumari.pdf','',1,'The present study was carried out to screen 45 rice genotypes along with resistant and susceptible checks to identify the sources of resistance against Brown Plant Hopper (BPH), Nilaparvata lugens (Stal) in rice by screening under field and glasshouse conditions (standard seed box technique) during Kharif, 2021 at Regional Agricultural Research Station(RARS), Warangal. Among 45 rice genotypes screened, 3 genotypes (Siddhi-BC2F6 BPH BL-43, Siddhi-BC2F6 BPH BL-30 and Siddhi-BC2F6 BPH BL-64) were found resistant; 9 genotypes (Siddhi-BC2F6 BPH BL-11, Siddhi-BC2F6 BPH BL-12, Siddhi-BC2F6 BPH BL-19, Siddhi-BC2F6 BPH BL-24, Siddhi-BC2F6 BPH BL-52, Siddhi-BC2F6 BPH BL-56, Siddhi-BC2F6 BPH BL-57, Siddhi-BC2F6 BPH BL-60 and Siddhi-BC2F6 BPH BL-61) were found moderately resistant under both the conditions. ','Brown Plant Hopper, Genotypes, Screening, Resistance','In the present study, out of 45 genotypes screened 12 genotypes had shown resistance reaction under both field and green house conditions. 3 genotypes viz., Siddhi-BC2F6 BPH BL-43, Siddhi-BC2F6 BPH BL- 30 andSiddhi-BC2F6 BPH BL-64 were resistant; 9 genotypes viz., Siddhi-BC2F6 BPH BL-11, Siddhi-BC2F6 BPH BL-12, Siddhi-BC2F6 BPH BL-19, Siddhi-BC2F6 BPH BL-24, Siddhi-BC2F6 BPH BL-52, Siddhi-BC2F6 BPH BL-56, Siddhi-BC2F6 BPH BL-57, Siddhi-BC2F6 BPH BL-60 andSiddhi-BC2F6 BPH BL-61were moderately resistant. ','INTRODUCTION\r\nRice (Oryza sativa L.) is the primary food source for nearly half of the world’s population and is being cultivated extensively in the most diverse ecosystems of tropical and sub-tropical regions of the world. It is the staple food for people in 39 countries and source of calories for one third of the world population which include 2.70 billion people in Asia alone. Globally, rice is being cultivated in an area of 167.2 million hectares with an annual production of 769.6 million tonnes and productivity of 4,600 Kg/ha. In India, during 2019-20 rice crop was cultivated in an area of 43.66 million ha with an annual production of 118.87 million tonnes and productivity of 2,722 kg/ha (FAO, 2021). The world will need about 25% more rice by the year 2030 to meet the estimated demand for an increasing global population (Yarasi et al., 2008).\r\nOn the other hand, the limiting factor to rice production is an aggregation of both abiotic and biotic constraints which causes a total loss of 0.8 tons per hectare. Among various biotic constraints of rice production, the insect pests are of prime importance and warm humid environment of the crop is more favourable for their survival and proliferation. More than 100 insect species attacks rice, of these 20 are major pests (Atwal and Dhaliwal 2002).\r\nAmong them brown plant hopper, Nilaparvata lugens (Homoptera; Delphacidae), is a typical phloem sap feeder and one of the most serious and destructive pests of rice throughout Asia (Normile, 2008; Heong and Hardy 2009). It causes yield loss amounting to as high as 60% under epidemic conditions (Srivastava et al., 2009, Kumar et al., 2012). Both nymphs and adults suck sap from the leaves and leaf sheaths, which results in yellowing of leaves and severe attack of BPH causes ‘hopper burn’ symptoms (Liu et al., 2008; Horgan, 2009; Vanitha et al., 2011).\r\nOver the years, the insect has attained the key pest status which is a consequence of the injudicious and indiscriminate insecticide application for its management. Though many chemicals were recommended for the control of this pest (Sarao, 2016), due to its feeding behaviour at the base of the plant, the farmers are unable to control this pest effectively. As a result, farmers resort to application of insecticides which often disrupts the ecological balance of rice ecosystem due to which this pest has already developed resistance against many insecticides in different Asian countries. (Gorman et al., 2008; Matsumura et al., 2009). Growing resistant variety can be one of the safer alternatives which can be helpful in increasing the rice production to satisfy the ever increasing population thereby minimizing the loss caused by insects in a sustainable approach. Identification of resistant varieties is very important as the biotypes of the pest is changing its behaviour from time to time and the earlier released resistant rice varieties showing susceptibility to the pest (Painter, 1958).\r\nMATERIAL AND METHODS\r\nThe present investigation was carried out at Regional Agricultural Research Station (RARS), Warangal during Kharif, 2021. The investigation includes identification of resistant genotypes against BPH through phenotypic screening. The experimental material consisted of 45 rice genotypes, two resistant checks (BM 71 and PTB 33) and one susceptible check (TN1).\r\nScreening under field conditions. Siddhi back cross derived genotypes (45) of F6 generation were collected from Regional Agricultural Research Station (RARS), Warangal and screened to identify the resistant genotypes against BPH. Along with test entries, BM 71 and PTB 33 as resistant checks and TN1 as susceptible check were transplanted with a spacing of 20 × 10 cm. The screening was done with 0-9 Grade (Table 1). The extent of damage on each plant was examined by visual scoring and evaluated according to the criteria, standard evaluation system (SES) of rice (IRRI, 2014).\r\nScreening under glass house conditions\r\nMass rearing of the BPH. Initial BPH population was collected from the rice fields in Warangal district. The BPH was mass reared on the susceptible rice variety Taichung Native I (TN1) to produce enough nymphs for infestation (Heinrichs, 1985). Using this technique, a continuous pure culture of the BPH was maintained. First and second in star insects were collected and used for experiments. \r\n Standard seed box screening technique. The pre-germinated seeds were sown in seed boxes (plastic trays or wooden boxes) of size 50 × 40 × 7 cm filled with fertilizer enriched puddled soil along with susceptible check TN1 in the two border rows and seeds of resistant check PTB 33 and BM 71 were sown in the middle row. Each screening tray included 20 test genotypes with about 15 seedlings per line; one row of resistant check (PTB 33) in the middle and two rows of susceptible check TN1 in the borders. First and second in star hopper nymphs were released (6-8 nymphs per seedling) on to 8-10 days old seedlings in the screening trays. When 90% of the plants of the susceptible check line TN1 were killed, scoring of the entries for damage was taken based on standard evaluation system of rice (SES) (IRRI, 2014). Average of the individual score of all the plants in each test line was taken as the damage score (Table 2).\r\nRESULTS AND DISCUSSION\r\nScreening under field conditions. Out of 45 rice genotypes evaluated for resistance to BPH under field conditions, three genotypes viz., Siddhi-BC2F6 BPH-BL-43, Siddhi-BC2F6 BPH-BL-30 and Siddhi-BC2F6 BPH-BL-64 were found to be resistant with a damage score of 1, nine genotypes were moderately resistant with a damage score of 3. Eight genotypes were moderately susceptible with damage score of 5, 19 genotypes were susceptible with a damage score of 7 and 6 genotypes were highly susceptible with a damage score of 9 (Table 3).\r\nThe similar results were reported by Meshram et al. (2022) who conducted an experiment comprised of 24 rice germplasm. Out of 24 rice germplasm lines, 13 germplasm lines showed the resistant reaction. The present results were similar with the findings of Tetarwal et al. (2014) who evaluated a total of 178 rice for resistance against brown planthopper (BPH) under natural infestation condition. The results revealed that only nine genotypes were resistant; 28 were found moderately resistant; 102 were moderately susceptible and the 46 were susceptible to brown planthopper. \r\nScreening under glass house conditions. Among 45 genotypes tested in glass house conditions, three genotypes were categorized as resistant viz., Siddhi-BC2F6 BPH BL-43, Siddhi-BC2F6 BPH BL- 30, and Siddhi-BC2F6 BPH BL-64 with a damage score of 1.6, 2.7 and 3.0, respectively; nine genotypes were moderately resistant viz., Siddhi-BC2F6 BPH BL-11, Siddhi-BC2F6 BPH BL- 12, and Siddhi-BC2F6 BPH BL-19, Siddhi-BC2F6 BPH BL-24, Siddhi-BC2F6 BPH BL-52, Siddhi-BC2F6 BPH BL-56, Siddhi-BC2F6 BPH BL-57, Siddhi-BC2F6 BPH BL-60 and Siddhi-BC2F6 BPH BL-61 with a damage score of 3.1 to 5.0; eight genotypes were moderately susceptible with damage a score of 5.1 to 7.0, 19 genotypes were susceptible with damage a score of 7.1 to 8.9 and six genotypes were highly susceptible with damage a score of 9.0 (Table 4).\r\nThe present results were similar with the findings of Soundararajan et al. (2019) who screened the advanced rice entries in standard seed box technique which indicated almost similar score of resistance for the rice genotypes. \r\n','R. Prathima Kumari, Ch. Anusha, R. Shravan Kumar, K. Rajendra Prasad and Y. Hari (2022). Screening of Rice Genotypes for their Resistance against Brown Plant Hopper, Nilaparvata lugens (Stal) under Field and Glasshouse conditions. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 14(3): 824-828.'),(5374,'136','Character Association and Path coefficient Analysis among Diverse Genotypes of Forage Maize (Zea mays L.)','Tejaskumar H. Borkhatariya, Dipakkumar P. Gohil, Praful M. Sondarava, Rumit Patel and Kuldeep M. Akbari\r\n','140 Character Association and Path coefficient Analysis among Diverse Genotypes of Forage Maize (Zea mays L.) Tejaskumar H. Borkhatariya.pdf','',1,'Forage crops are highly important, especially for the countries like India which has a large livestock population. Therefore in the present investigation,fifty elite genotypes of forage maize (Zea mays L.) were evaluated for the study of character association and path coefficient analysis during Kharif-2021 at Main Forage Research Station, AAU, Gujarat, India. Results revealed that days to 50% tasseling, days to 50% silking, number of leaves per plant, plant height, stem thickness, leaf length, leaf width, leaf: stem ratio and dry matter content had a significantly positive correlation with green fodder yield at both genotypic as well as phenotypic level. The highest correlation of plant height (rg = 1.043) and stem thickness (rp = 0.819) with green fodder yield was found at genotypic and phenotypic levels, respectively. The path coefficient analysis revealed positive direct effects of such yield contributing traits, like days to 50% tasseling, days to 50% silking, number of leaves, stem thickness, leaf length, dry matter content and crude protein content. The highest positive direct effect was observed from leaf length. Therefore, selecting the plant with more number of leaves, higher leaf length and good stem thickness will ultimately increase the green fodder yield. ','Forage maize, Character association, Path analysis, Correlation coefficient, Fodder quality','Results of the present investigation lead to the conclusion that selection for the traits like days to 50% tasseling, days to 50% silking, number of leaves per plant, plant height, stem thickness, leaf length, leaf width, leaf: stem ratio and dry matter content could improve green fodder yield as they had a positive correlation. As per path analysis, selection for the plant with more number of leaves, higher leaf length and good stem thickness will efficiently increase the green fodder yield. At the same time selection for higher crude protein content and acid detergent fibre content can adversely affect the progress in breeding for improving green fodder yield due to the strong negative association of these traits with it. However, balancing different quality parameters is also an important task while practising the selection for various quantitative traits to improve green fodder yield in forage maize. Overall, selection for the plant height in forage maize can lead to higher production of green fodder as it had the highest positive correlation with it. ','INTRODUCTION\r\nIndia is ranked first in milk production contributing 23% of the global milk production. Milk production in the country has grown at a compound annual growth rate of about 6.2% to reach 209.96 million metric tonnes in 2020-21 from 146.31 million tonnes in 2014-15 (Economic survey, 2022). Milk production is heavily reliant on the availability of high-quality fodder. Also, an insufficient supply of high-quality feed and fodder is the primary factor lowering milch animal productivity in India (Kumari et al., 2022). On all India basis, there is an overall deficit of 11.24% in green fodder availability in the country. Total green fodder availability is 734.2 million metric tonnes against the requirement of 827.19 million metric tonnes. The major source of green fodder in India is cultivated land, followed by pasture land and forests (Roy et al., 2019). To meet the needs of an ever-increasing livestock population, fodder production and productivity must be increased. \r\nMaize (Zea mays L.) is a dual-purpose crop that produces kernels for human consumption as well as fodder for livestock. It is an excellent source of animal feed due to its high content of protein, good palatability and good digestibility (Ballard et al., 2001). Forage maize also holds sufficient nutritional quality when we compare it to other non-leguminous fodders (Mahdi et al., 2011).Identifying the genetic compositions that are superior in green fodder yield is the main problem faced by forage maize breeders. Green fodder yield is influenced by various metric traits and it is the consequence of numerous complex morphological and physiological processes that take place at different stages of growth. To select better genotypes with higher green fodder yield and good nutritional quality, it is critical to understand how these economically beneficial traits are related to other characteristics. Correlation analysis identifies relationships between different agronomical qualitative traits in genetically diverse populations for crop improvement (Silva et al., 2016). \r\nWhile going for selection in forage crops, a breeder must know about the direction and magnitude of the association between the forage yield and its contributing traits. Correlation measures the extent and direction (positive or negative) of the relationship between two or more variables, while path analysis partitions correlations into direct and indirect effects. The estimates of correlation and path coefficients help breeders to understand the roles and relative contributions of various traits in determining the growth behaviour of crop cultivars under specific environmental conditions (Shahbaz et al., 2007). The aim of this study was to determine the relationships between various forage maize characters and to identify the direct and indirect effects of yield contributing characters on green fodder yield.\r\nMATERIAL AND METHODS\r\nExperimental site. The experiment was conducted during Kharif-2021 at Main Forage Research Station, Anand Agricultural University, Anand (22° 35’ N, 72° 55’ E), Gujarat, India. The soil texture of the experimental location at Anand centre is sandy loam, with a pH range of 8.1 to 8.5. It has low organic matter, nitrogen and cation exchange capacity, while it has a medium phosphorus content and it is moderately rich in potash. \r\nExperimental design and material. Fifty diverse forage maize genotypes were evaluated in a randomized complete block design with three replications. Each genotype was planted in a single row of 5.0 m in length, 30 cm apart, with a 10 cm plant-to-plant spacing. To avoid damage and border effects, the experiment was surrounded by border rows. The recommended agronomical and plant protection practices were followed for the successful raising of the crop. \r\nObservations recorded and characters investigated. Observations were recorded on five randomly selected plants from each entry for thirteen different traits viz., days to 50% tasseling, days to 50% silking, number of leaves per plant, plant height (cm), stem thickness (cm), leaf length (cm), leaf width (cm), leaf: stem ratio, dry matter content (%), crude protein content (%)[CP], neutral detergent fibre content (%)[NDF], acid detergent fibre content (%)[ADF]and green fodder yield per plant (g). The sample collected from each genotype was chopped and air-dried for three days followed by oven drying at 100º C till the attainment of constant weight and then dry matter content was calculated from the data. After that, the sample was powdered and scanned with “FOSS NIR System” (Model: 5000 composite) following the standard analytical protocol to estimate all the quality parameters such as CP, NDF and ADF. \r\nStatistical analysis. The data collected were analysed for correlation and path coefficient study. Genotypic and phenotypic coefficients of correlation were calculated from genotypic and phenotypic co-variances and variances as described by Singh and Chaudhry (1985); Johnson et al. (1955). Direct and indirect effects were calculated by the path coefficient analysis as suggested by Dewey and Lu (1959) at both phenotypic and genotypic levels. The data were analysed using the “Variability” package (Popat et al., 2020) in the R-studio.\r\nRESULTS AND DISCUSSION\r\nFodder yield is a complex character that is influenced by a number of other traits, each of which has either a positive or negative association with green fodder yield, with direct as well as indirect effects. It is important to remember that whenever two traits are correlated, selecting for one trait would ensure selection for the other automatically. As a result, choosing the best traits in this study that correlated with yield would lead to a higher yield in forage maize. Determining appropriate selection methods for the yield components requires knowledge of the mechanisms of association, causes and effects relationships, which forms the basis for achieving rational improvement in fodder yield and its components. \r\nAssociation between forage traits. The genotypic correlation coefficients and phenotypic correlation coefficients for various traits are given in Tables 1 and 2, respectively. Results indicated that all the traits, except CP and ADF, had a positive and significant correlation at the genotypic level with green fodder yield per plant. CP and ADF also had a significant, but negative genotypic correlation with green fodder yield. Earlier negative genotypic correlation for ADF content in forage maize was found by Kapoor and Batra (2015). While at the phenotypic level, all the traits, except three quality traits viz., CP, NDF and ADF; were found positively and significantly correlated with green fodder yield per plant. Thus, selection based on these traits will result in improving the green fodder yield in forage maize genotypes. These results were in harmony with the findings of Kapoor and Batra (2015) as well as Rathod et al. (2021) for number of leaves, plant height, stem girth, leaf length and leaf width. Kapoor and Batra (2015) as well as Naharudin et al. (2021), also observed non-significant phenotypic correlations for quality parameters, which was in accordance with the present investigation.\r\nThe genotypic as well as phenotypic correlation coefficients among various yield component traits viz., days to 50% tasseling, days to 50% silking, number of leaves per plant, plant height, stem thickness, leaf length and leaf width were significantly positive. Crude protein content was found negative but significantly correlated with all the characters except with leaf: stem ratio at the genotypic level. Also, acid detergent fibre content had a negative and significant genotypic correlation with most of the traits, except dry matter content and neutral detergent fibre content.\r\nThe maximum positive genotypic correlation coefficient was observed between NDF and ADF (rg = 7.999), followed by dry matter content and ADF (rg = 3.919). While the highest negative and significant correlation coefficient was found between CP and ADF (rg = 2.788), followed by number of leaves per plant and ADF (rg = 2.183). The highest value of positive and significant phenotypic correlation was observed between days to 50% tasseling and days to 50% silking (rp = 0.929), followed by stem thickness and green fodder yield per plant (rp = 0.819). Whereas dry matter content and CP (rp = 0.419) exhibited the highest value of negative and significant correlation at the phenotypic level, followed by CP and NDF (rp = 0.392). \r\nThe highest correlation of plant height (rg = 1.043) and stem thickness (rp = 0.819) with green fodder yield per plant was found at genotypic and phenotypic levels, respectively. While the highest negative correlation of green fodder yield per plant was observed with crude protein content (rg = 0.674, rp = 0.140).Significant correlations between fodder yield as well as various yield contributing traits suggest that these characteristics were controlled by genes with pleiotropic effect or controlled by multiple genes that are linked (Chen and Lubberstedt 2010).\r\nPath coefficient analysis. The partitioning of the total correlation coefficient into direct and indirect effects for green fodder yield revealed positive direct effects of many yield contributing traits, like days to 50% tasseling (2.3479), days to 50% silking (0.8148), number of leaves (1.5062), stem thickness (0.6432), leaf length (3.5755), dry matter content (2.1036) and crude protein content (0.7623) [Table 3]. Similarly, the positive direct effect of days to 50% tasseling was found by Rathod et al. (2021). While, Kapoor and Batra (2015) as well as Kapoor (2017) for number of leaves; Kapoor and Batra (2015); Kapoor (2017); Rathod et al. (2021) for stem girth; Kapoor (2017); Rathod et al. (2021) for leaf length; Rathod et al. (2021) for dry matter content; observed positive direct effects. Thus, the improvement in yield contributing characteristics such as number of leaves, stem thickness and leaf length will help to improve green fodder yield directly as well as indirectly. \r\nHowever, negative direct effects were observed for such traits as plant height (-3.5099), leaf width (-3.3638), leaf: stem ratio (-0.3853), NDF (-0.2799) and ADF (-0.0474). It ultimately indicated that the positive significant correlation of most of these traits with green fodder yield per plant was due to indirect effects generated through other characters mainly. The negative direct effect of leaf width and leaf: stem ratio was observed by Kapoor (2017), also Kapoor and Batra (2015) reported a negative direct effect of ADF on green fodder yield.\r\nThe highest positive direct effect on green fodder yield per plant was observed from leaf length followed by days to 50% tasseling and dry matter content. Although plant height had the highest negative direct effect, the positive correlation with green fodder yield was due to the positive indirect effects via leaf length and other important traits.\r\nFurther, days to 50% tasseling, days to 50% silking, number of leaves per plant, stem thickness, leaf length and dry matter content had a true relationship with green fodder yield per plant by establishing a significant positive association and positive direct effect on green fodder yield. Thus, selection for these traits will be more rewarding for the improvement of green fodder yield per plant in forage maize.\r\n\r\n','Tejaskumar H. Borkhatariya, Dipakkumar P. Gohil, Praful M. Sondarava, Rumit Patel and Kuldeep M. Akbari (2022). Character Association and Path coefficient Analysis among Diverse Genotypes of Forage Maize (Zea mays L.). Biological Forum – An International Journal, 14(3): 829-833.'),(5375,'136','Morphological and Molecular characterization of Phytophthora infestans causing Potato Late Blight Disease','P. Parameshwari, G. Senthilraja, T. Anand and M. Raveendran','141 Morphological and Molecular characterization of Phytophthora infestans causing Potato Late Blight Disease G. Senthilraja.pdf','',1,'Potatoes are an important vegetable crop of India, grown throughout the year under moist and humid conditions, which makes them more prone to diseases. Among the potato diseases, late blight caused by Phytophthora infestans is the most devastating. This paper describes the morphological and molecular characterization of four isolates of potato late blight pathogen P. infestans collected from different potato-growing areas in the Nilgiris district in Tamil Nadu. The four isolates were varied with respect to their pathogenic and morphological features, such as growth rate, colony colour, colony pattern, and sporangial production. The maximum mycelial growth rate of P. infestans was observed on clarified V8 juice agar and carrot agar after 5-7 days of incubation, while glucose as paragine agar showed minimal mycelial growth. The maximum sporangial production was seen when diluted tomato juice broth was used. Molecular analysis of ITS-PCR confirmed the identification of the isolates as P. infestans.','Potato, Phytophthora infestans, isolation, late blight, morphology, characterization','The pathogen, P. infestans causes significant yield loss to potato farmers worldwide. This study revealed information on the morphological and molecular characteristics of P. infestans from the Nilgiris district of Tamil Nadu. This is important for understanding host-pathogen interactions and developing disease control strategies.','INTRODUCTION\r\nPotato (Solanum tuberosum L.) is one of the most popular vegetables in the world, belonging to the Solanaceae family. There are nearly 200 different wild potato species, each with its own unique flavour and nutritional value. Potatoes are the fourth most commonly grown food crop in the world, after maize, wheat and rice. They are available throughout the year, and can help to meet nutritional needs in people who are deficient in these nutrients. It is also largely rich in antioxidants such as vitamin A, B1, B6, C and carotenoids (White et al., 2009). Phytophthora infestans (Anton de Bary) is the most destructive oomycete pathogen that causes late blight disease in potato and was responsible for the Irish famine in the 1840s (Montarry et al., 2008; Chowdappa et al., 2015). This pathogen is a heterothallic and hemibiotrophic in nature. The pathogen is sensitive and short-lived, and it destroys the plants it infects within two weeks under favourable conditions (Fry et al., 2008). The pathogenesis comparatively sensitive, short lived in infected potato leaf tissue, and the pathogen seems to possess a limited competitive saprophytic ability. In these aspects, the isolation and culturing of pathogen in artificial medium is relatively difficult. Several culture media have been used in various countries to isolate and maintain P. infestans isolates. It is very essential to supplement the necessary elements and compounds required for the growth and metabolism of the pathogen in the medium (Padmaja et al., 2015). Thus, different synthetic media were used in this study to see which was the best medium for the growth of P. infestans.\r\nSymptoms of the disease appear near the leaf tips as water-soaked irregular pale green lesions, which rapidly grow into large brown to black necrotic spots on the upper surface of leaves, and white hyphae growth can be seen on the lower surface of infected leaves (Mhatre et al., 2021). The infection on the stem appears as a brown lesion around the stem, eventually leading to collapse. In severe cases, the disease can affect the entire crop in a week and transform it into a dark blighted crop. The disease also affects tubers, making them hard, dry and rigid, resulting in rotting in the field and in storage (Agrios, 2005; Arora et al., 2014). In India prior to 2006, late blight was seen as a frequent threat to potato cultivation in the North Indian states (Chowdappa et al., 2011). Since 2008, severe outbreaks of the disease have been seen in South Indian potato crops, resulting in total crop loss (Jain et al., 2019).\r\nIn addition, many diagnostic laboratories are not familiar with oomycete culture procedures, and the rapid growth of bacteria from leaf samples with secondary bacterial infection usually limits the isolation of P. infestans (George et al., 2017). Plant pathogenic oomycetes can be rapidly and efficiently isolated from infected plant tissues using antibiotic-enriched selective media following proper laboratory procedures. The selective media used for the isolation of oomycetes pathogen often contain antibacterial agents such as penicillin, ampicillin and rifampicin which prevent the development of bacterial growth and fungal growth. The molecular characterization of P. infestans by using the internal transcribed spacer regions (ITS) of rDNA may be helpful for easy detection and confirmation of species and the assessment of genetic variability among isolates. The main focus of this study is to i) isolate the pathogen from the infected leaf tissues, and ii) characterize the isolates of P. infestans with respect to their morphological and molecular features.\r\nMATERIALS AND METHODS \r\nSurvey and sample collection. A roving field survey was conducted in major potato growing areas such as, Muthorai, Nanjanad, Wellington, Emerald and Palada in the Nilgiris district, Indiaduring Rabi 2021-22 to assess the severity and incidence of late blight disease in potato. Two fields were selected in each place. Totally, ten fields were surveyed at the time of survey, late blight infected leaves and stem samples were collected for pathogen isolation and characterization. The disease incidence in each field was determined by visually inspecting the plants and cutting two diagonal transects across the field (number of infected plants and healthy plants along each diagonal).\r\nIsolation of P. infestans and pure culture maintenance. The plants exhibiting typical symptoms of late blight were collected from the field during the survey and brought to the laboratory. Tissue segment method (Vasudeva et al., 1958) was employed for isolation of P. infestans on clarified V8 PARP medium supplemented with antibiotics such as pimaricin (400µl), penicillin (50µg/ml), ampicillin (250mg/ml), and rifampicin (100mg/ml) to suppress the growth of other microbes (Jadesha et al., 2020). Liquid soap was used to gently remove all soil-associated surface impurities from infected leaf samples. Small pieces (5×5 mm) of infected leaf tissues from the sporulating border of young lesions including a little bit of healthy leaf tissue was dissected using sterile scalpel. Leaf bits were placed in 70% ethanol for 1 minute followed by 4% sodium hypochlorite solution for 60 seconds for surface sterilizing the tissue then rinsed thrice with sterile distilled water in laminar airflow chamber. The excess moisture was blotted with sterile Whatman filter papers. The sterile leaf bits were placed in half plate containing selective medium, clarified V8 PARP supplemented with combination of antibiotics. Inoculated plates were incubated at 20°C for 7-10 days under 12 hours of photoperiod in BOD (Martin et al., 2012). \r\nPhytophthora infestans was initially identified based on mycelial and morphological characteristics using standard mycological keys. The pure fungus culture was obtained using the single hyphal tip method (Tutte et al., 1969), which involved transferring the upper portion of actively growing mycelium from a 10-day-old culture into a 1.5ml microfuge tube containing 1 ml of sterile water. On the surface of V8 juice agar plates, three to five drops of suspension were added. The single hyphal bit was forced to ramify through the agar using this technique. Plates were examined under a dissecting microscope at 10x magnification after 5 days, and a single hyphal branch was transferred to V8 juice agar plates. On the surface of V8 juice agar plates, three to five drops of suspension were added. The single hyphal bit was forced to ramify through the agar using this technique. Plates were examined under a dissecting microscope at 10x magnification after 5 days, and a single hyphal branch was transferred to V8 juice agar plates.\r\nPathogenicity assay under controlled conditions. Pathogenicity study of all four isolates (PPI1, PPI2, PPI3 and PPI4) was performed under controlled conditions on the highly susceptible cultivar Kufri Swarna. Inoculation of P. infestans four isolates were done by spraying zoospore suspensions (Becktell et al., 2005). Five 7mm mycelia discs of each isolate were placed in 90mm Petri dishes containing 15-20ml of diluted tomato juice broth. The cultures were allowed to grow for 24-48 hours at 20°C under continuous light conditions (Widmer et al., 2009). Zoospores were released from the sporangia after the cultures were refrigerated for 30 minutes and then incubated at room temperature. The released zoospores were diluted to the final concentrations. The motility of zoospores was verified under compound microscope.\r\nAll the potted potato plants were inoculated by spraying a zoospore suspension (10,000-20,000 sporangia/ml) with handheld sprayer. Spraying of sterile water serves as control kept separately (Wang et al., 2020). The plants were watered daily for 3-4 times at 3hours interval. Each isolate containing 3 potted was considered as one replication and was replicated five times. Initial symptoms were observed after 48-72 hours after inoculation (Pande et al., 2011).\r\nDisease assessment. Late blight incidence was assessed using the formula (Ahmed et al., 2015) as mentioned below. \r\n\"Percent disease incidence =\" \"Number of infected plants\" /\" Total number of plants observed\" × 100\r\nThe pathogen was re-isolated from the artificially inoculated potato plant shown typical late blight symptoms and the culture was confirmed with the original culture for morphology and colony characters. To evaluate the virulence of four isolates, per cent disease incidence was calculated and virulent isolate was used throughout the research. \r\nMorphological characterization \r\nSporangial induction and zoospores production. Six day old culture of P.infestans (PPI3) was taken for induction of sporangia and zoospores. Mycelial discs of 9mm diameter of P. infestans were cut using sterile cork borer from the edge of 5 days old culture grown on clarified V8 juice agar and inoculated into 90mm diameter to different Petri dishes flooded with 10-15 ml of 1% non sterile soil extract, tap water, distilled water, rain water, pond water (Malvi et al., 2022) and diluted tomato juice broth (Jadesha et al., 2020). The Petri dishes were kept for 48-72 hours at 19-22°C under light conditions. Consistent light condition and non-sterile liquids may promote the sporangial formation. Then, the plates were observed under stereo zoom microscope Induction of sporangia was initiated and abundant production was observed within 48-72 hours primarily towards the margin of the colony. The sporangial suspension was incubated at 4°C for 1 to 2 hours to release of zoospores from the sporangia (Widmer et al., 2009).\r\nMicro morphology. All the four isolates were isolated aseptically on the V8 juice agar plates and incubated at 21±2°C for 7 days and cultural characteristics such as colony pattern, growth rate and colony color were observed after 15 days of incubation (Vanegas et al., 2022). Mycelial characters and fungal morphology as described in were observed under LEICA DM2000 phase contrast microscope at 40X magnification of objective lens. \r\nMacro morphology \r\nColony pattern. Twelve different culture media viz., Carrot agar, Clarified V8 juice agar, Corn meal agar, Czapek’s Dox agar Glucose asparagine agar, Potato carrot agar Oat meal agar, Potato dextrose agar, Potato leaf extract agar, Richard’s synthetic agar, Saboraud dextrose agar, Tomato juice agar were prepared in accordance with the manufacturer\'s (HiMedia, India) specifications and compositions (Dhingra and Sinclair, 1985). Mycelial discs of 7mm diameter were taken from ten days old pre-cultured Petri plates by using sterile cork borer and placed in all the Petri dishes containing twelve different media. Three replications in each media were maintained and the mean mycelial growth was recorded. The plates were incubated at 19±2°C in 12 hours dark and 12 hours light conditions for 7-10 days. This study was conducted for evaluating the best culture media for the radial growth of P. infestans using the twelve different solid media (Rangaswami et al., 1958). The average colony diameter of the fungal growth was measured in millimeters (Jadesha et al., 2020).\r\nMolecular characterization \r\nDNA extraction. Isolates of P. infestans were cultured on oat meal agar for 7-10 days. Mycelia were scrapped from the plates and ground at liquid nitrogen. Extraction of DNA is done by cetyl trimethyl ammonium bromide (CTAB) procedure (Wangsomboondee et al., 2002). The frozen mycelia were added with 750µl CTAB buffer and transferred the extract into 2ml centrifuge tubes. Then the tubes were vortexed and incubated in water bath at 65°C for 30 minutes. After incubation, 750µl of phenol: chloroform: isoamyl alcohol (25:24:1) was added to each tube and centrifuged at 13000 rpm for 15 minutes at room temperature. The uppermost aqueous phase was removed to a new tube and ice cold isopropan-2-ol (600µl) was added and tubes were incubated at -20°C for overnight incubation. After incubation, tubes were centrifuged at 13000 rpm for 15 minutes. The supernatant was discarded and pellets were washed with 70% ethanol, then air dried. DNA was suspended in 30µl TE buffer and stored in -20°C. DNA concentration was checked with 0.8% agarose gel for one hour. \r\nPCR amplification. The identification of Phytophthora was confirmed later by performing ITS-PCR assay. Employing the universal primer pairs ITS1 (5’-TCCGTAGGTGAACCTGCGG-3’) and ITS4 (5’-TCCTCCGCTTATTGATATGC-3’), amplified the ITS regions between small nuclear 18S rDNA and the larger nuclear 28S rDNA, including 5.8S rDNA (Hussain et al., 2014). PCR was performed in a volume of 25µl, containing 10mM of oligonucleotide primer (1 µl), 20mM of each of the four deoxynucleotide triphosphates (0.75 µl) 25mM MgCl2 (1.0 µl), 0.35 µl of Taq DNA polymerase, 10 × Assay buffer (2.5 µl) and 1.0 µl template DNA (60 ng/µl) (Nath et al., 2015). All PCR reactions were carried out using Mastercycler® Nexus gradient X2 PCR cycler (MA, USA) with the following PCR conditions, initial denaturation at 94°C for 3 min, 35 cycles of amplification with denaturation 94°C for 30 sec, annealing at 56°C for 1 min and 72°C for 2 min for extension with final extension 72°C for 10 min (George et al., 2017) and the PCR products were checked for amplification by 1.0 percent agarose gel electrophoresis. The UVITEC Gel doc EZ Imaging system was used to view the size of amplicons and sanger dideoxy sequencing was done to analyze the nucleotide sequence of DNA. The resulted high quality sequences were analyzed with NCBI BLASTn to confirm the authenticity of isolates. \r\nStatistical analysis. The obtained data were statistically analyzed by IBM SPSS Statistics 22. Duncan’s multiple range test and post hoc tests were performed at 5% level of significance (Gomez et al., 1984).\r\nRESULTS AND DISCUSSION\r\nSurvey and assessment of potato late blight incidence\r\nThe survey results have shown that the disease was prevalent in all the surveyed areas with different magnitude of infection. The small circular to irregular-shaped water-soaked spots were observed on leaf surface with whitish mildew-appearing area is visible at the edge of the lesions or along petioles. The maximum disease incidence was recorded in Muthorai (95.63%) followed by Palada (87.29%) and Emerald (82.56%). The minimum disease incidence was recorded in Nanjanad (59.37%) followed by Wellington (69.01%) have shown in Fig 1. \r\nIsolation of P. infestans\r\nMostly Phytophthora spp. was hard to isolate, especially from infected potato leaf tissues due to the hasty growth rate of other saprophytic fungi according to Henricot et al. (2014). Successful isolation of Phytophthora spp. can be accomplished by the use of selective media that either impedes the development of other fungus and bacteria. Five different media viz., potato dextrose agar, corn meal agar, carrot agar, lima bean agar, and potato leaf extract agar were screened for isolation of P. infestans from the infected leaf bits (Fatima et al., 2015). In the present study, among all the media tested, V8 PARP (V8 juice amended with pimaricin, ampicillin, rifampicin, penicillin) medium was found effective in supporting the growth of P. infestans which minimized the bacterial contamination by the presence of antibiotics supplemented in the medium. The results of the present study was in compliance with findings of (Jadesha et al., 2020). Totally, four isolates (PPI1, PPI2, PPI3 and PPI4) were identified form this study (Table 1).\r\nMorphological characterization\r\nEvaluation of different media on the growth of P.infestans. The suitable culture media and physiological conditions for mycelial growth was evaluated by placing of 7 mm mycelial discs into twelve different culture media (Table 2). Among twelve different media evaluated against P. infestans, the maximum mycelial growth of pathogen was observed in clarified V8 juice agar (90 mm) followed by carrot agar (89 mm), potato dextrose agar (88 mm), potato carrot agar (79.30 mm), and potato leaf extract agar (70.30 mm). The results are in agreement with George et al, (2017) who found the suitability ofV8 juice agar for culturing the P. infestans. The minimum mycelial growth was noticed in glucose asparagine agar of 22.70 mm followed by Richard’s synthetic agar of 31 mm was recorded. The obtained results were similar to findings of (Henricot et al., 2014) that recorded maximum growth of P. pachyplura was noticed in V8 juice agar of 90mm and in potato dextrose agar (84 mm). The least mycelial growth was recorded in glucose asparagine (41.80 mm) was observed in P. parasitica (Prasad et al., 2017) which is similar to that of our results.\r\nColony pattern. In the present study, four isolates were obtained from the infected potato leaf and stem samples collected from the Nilgiris district. The colony colour of P. infestans was observed cottony white to dull white with rosette pattern. Mycelium was long, aseptate, hyaline, sympodial branching pattern, uniform in diameter. The mycelium was too sensitive and had a watery nature. The pathogen growth was achieved in transparent media. So, thin film of media is enough for establishment of the pathogen under artificial conditions. The sporulation was not observed in culture media. The sporangia were observed in 1% soil suspension with mycelial discs which were incubated for 48-72 hours (Mehmood et al., 2022). The lemoni form sporangium with semi papilla was seen under stereo zoom microscope. The limitations in availability of nutrients and temperature might be the reason for lack of sporulation in Phytophthora spp. On the basis of the study of cultural and morphological characteristics, it was concluded that the species closely resembled to P. infestans (Prasad et al., 2017). However sporulation was not observed in any of the medium tested.\r\nSporulation of P. infestans. The study showed that different methods given by research workers were tried for induction of sporangia of P. infestans and results were given in Table 3. The result revealed that out of six methods tried, diluted tomato juice broth produced more amounts of lemon shaped sporangia with semi papilla and oospores also observed under stereo zoom microscope. The obtained results were similar to that of Jadesha et al. (2020). The sporangial production was formed in a lesser amount in 15 ml of rain water and river water. Non-sterilized liquids and non-sterile soil extracts may induce sporangial development in P. infestans (Fig. 2). \r\nMolecular characterization of P. infestans. The internal transcribed spacer (ITS) regions of 18S rDNA were amplified by employing primer pair ITS1 and ITS4 (Cespedes et al., 2013). The initial identification was confirmed by the amplicon size of 850 base pairs in all the four isolates (Fig. 3). Similarly, George et al. (2017) obtained the amplicon size of 850 base pairs in Phytophthora isolates. BLASTn analysis revealed that the sequence of ITS regions of all the four isolates were shown 100% sequence homology with sequences of P. infestans in GenBank, NCBI and the nucleotide sequences were submitted and accession numbers were assigned by NCBI GenBank. \r\nPathogenicity test. Twenty five days old potato plants of highly susceptible variety (Kufri Swarna) was artificially inoculated with P. infestans by spraying zoospore suspension method. The first symptom of late blight disease was recorded during the pathogenicity test was almost identical to the symptoms at open field conditions. Initially, a small water soaked lesion of late blight disease was appeared on upper leaf surface during third day after inoculations. The infection progressed and lesion became enlarged with whitish downy growth on its lower surface after fifteen days from inoculation. The fungus was re-isolated from the infected leaves were compared with original culture of P. infestans. Jadesha et al. (2020) observed the symptom development in redgram after 48 hours of inoculation with P. infestans pathogen.\r\nVirulence of P. infestans isolates\r\nArtificial inoculation was employed for assessing the virulence of four isolates viz., PPI1, PPI2, PPI3, PPI4 in potato plants (Kufri Swarna) and the results were presented in Table 4. It was found that PPI3 was most virulent with disease incidence of 95.30 percent on 20th day after inoculation followed by PPI1 (81.05 percent). The least virulent with disease incidence was found in PPI4 and PPI3 with percent disease incidence of 73.14 and 66.30 percent, respectively. Hence, the isolate PPI3 was used throughout the study. The infective potential of zoospores and concentrations were observed more in PPI3 when compared to other isolates. The results obtained from this study were similar to that of Widmer et al. (2009).\r\n','P. Parameshwari, G. Senthilraja, T. Anand and M. Raveendran (2022). Morphological and Molecular characterization of Phytophthora infestans causing Potato Late Blight Disease. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 14(3): 834-840.'),(5376,'136','Citrus Budding: Research Perspectives and Recent Trends','Nilakshi Bordoloi, L. Wangchu and P.K. Nimbolkar','142 Citrus Budding Research Perspectives and Recent Trends P.K. Nimbolkar.pdf','',1,'The major commercially important Citrus groups include Mandarin group, Orange group, Pummelo-Grapefruit group and the Acid group.Citrus spp propagated by seeds are highly susceptible to numerous diseases. Therefore, budding and grafting using compatible rootstock-scion is a necessity. It is important to use budwood from certified mother plant for disease free quality planting material. Climatic condition and season equally influence the budding success. Rootstock is an important component in influencing tree vigour, tree height, fruit size, its characters and qualities, precocity in bearing, disease resistant etc. There are various methods of budding followed commercially in different varieties or species in Citrus out of which T-budding and Chip budding are common. For a successful budding operation, specific time and rootstocks that are adaptable to the region are utmost important which otherwise results in lower bud take success. Microbudding helps in faster multiplication of plant and is cheaper. However, the concept is limited to few citrus species which needs further studies to popularize it.','Propagation, Budding, Compatibility, Rootstock and Microbudding','This review presents a comprehensive study on importance of budding technique in citrus production which is more reliable as compared to sexual propagation through seed, due to the fact that as the budded plants can survive in adverse climate, soil and stress conditions by the use of desired rootstocks, besides early bearing than the seed propagated plants. Budding makes excellent use of a bud stick as only one bud is necessary for propagation. It allows more efficient use of planting material when a bud stick for a specific rootstock is present in a limited condition. The technique of Microbudding can be employed reliably and economically to produce healthy citrus seedling for initial orchard setup at faster and cheaper way. The method demonstrated 76 % success in Sweet Lime, 68 % in grapefruit and 44 % in Feutrell\'s Early when Rough Lemon was used as rootstock (Alam et al., 2006). The plants can be used for biological indexing for Tristeza, Psorosis, Exocortis, etc. The budwood certification is crucial in supplying virus free budwood for quality planting materials in establishing a successful orchard. Arizone, U.S the program was operated on voluntary basis during 1960s to deal with citrus tristeza virus and viroid. Over the past five years, the 175,000 buds from registered tree from 285 different citrus varieties are being distributed by California Citrus Clonal Protection Program (CCPP) at the Lindcove Research and Extension Center in Central California. The University of Arizona collaborated with Yuma County Citrus Pest Abatement District (YCCPAD) releases about 500 buds per year (Vidalakis, 2010). Hence, the review will disseminate the knowledge about the recent trends and research perspective of citrus budding to the researchers.','INTRODUCTION\r\nCitrus is one of the major demanding fruit crops grown throughout the world. The genus is a member of Rutaceae family which includes various wild species to cultivated edible species, classified by Swingle and Tanaka. There are 16 species as given by Swingle in 1948 and 162 by Tanaka in 1977 (Bose et al., 2001). A reformulation of citrus classification including the hybrids has been described recently by Nicolosi et al. 2000 and Wu et al., 2018. The economic importance of the crop varies according to the species. Among these the major commercially important groups include Mandarin group, Orange group, Pummelo-Grapefruit group and the Acid group. According to National Horticulture Board (NHB) data, the crop occupies an area of 10.58 Lakh hectares with production of 140.32 Lakh MT (Anonymous, 2020). In India, Madhya Pradesh stands first position in Mandarin production with 2103.64 thousand MT, followed by Punjab and Maharashtra whereas Andhra Pradesh occupies first position in Sweet Orange production with 2003.11 thousand MT (Anonymous, 2018). From consuming fresh to processed products, from using it commercially in pharmaceutical to various other industries, not only the fruit but also the flowers and leaves are of immense importance to human kind. Indian citrus industry is a boon to its economy, so production and multiplication of healthy sapling is a prerequisite. Most of the farmers use seed as propagating material which leads to variations in orchard, longer time to flower and fruit which are the major concerns for orchard loss. Moreover, seedling plants are highly susceptible to numerous diseases. Therefore, replacement with improved technique such as budding and grafting using compatible rootstock-scion is a necessity which will increase the production within short time, reduce vegetative phase, induce biotic and abiotic stresses, impart dwarfism for high density planting and production of certified planting materials. Most importantly, they are easier and faster to perform although success rate depends on the skill of the performer.\r\nCITRUS PROPAGATION\r\nCommercially, Citrus species are propagated through various means such as Acid Lime and Rangpur lime by seed, sweet lime by layering and hardwood cuttings, Persian lime by ground or air layering, lemon by cutting, sweet orange and Mandarin by budding (Singh, 2018). Wedge and side grafting in Kinnow Mandarin showed highest graft union with 90% and 86.27% respectively in Jaffa Sweet Orange and Tongue grafting led to 76.67% success (Hussain et al., 2017). Again, in Kinnow Mandarin micropropagation was standardized using nodal segment as explant (Kumar et al., 2016; Singh et al., 2018). Standard protocols were also being made for Sweet Orange cultivar Blood Red (Kanwar et al., 2015). Veneer grafting trial in Poncirus trifoliata using Mandarin cultivar ‘Dhankuta Local’ and ‘Ota Ponkan’ as scion was highly successful in mid hills of Nepal (Bhandari et al., 2021). Shoot tip in vitro propagation was carried out successfully in Pummelo (Paudyal and Haq 2000).\r\nBudding. In budding, a vegetative dormant bud is attached to the incision made on the rootstock. Budding gives uniform and true to type plants while seed propagation may produce inferior quality seedlings and variations in orchard plants. As compared to grafting, it produces stronger union resulting in less damage to budded plants from storms and strong winds and it is faster and more efficient form of propagation that does not necessarily require any professional. Budding entails a number of procedures, beginning with the selection of a mother tree, scion wood, and so on to all the way through the final delivery of budlings to the orchard site. \r\nMother plant and scion wood. Scion budwood should always be selected from mother plant which is high yielding, free of bud sports and chimaeras, healthy, strong, matured and capable of producing disease resistance and quality fruits. The mother plant should be examined critically over a period of 5 years for detection of any symptoms or abnormalities. Thus, the plant should be certified under budwood certification program. Again, the bud wood must be taken from past season’s growth which is in dormant condition. Scion curing is most important before taking out of the scion woods from mother plant.\r\nPreparation of rootstock. Rootstocks should be about 9-10 months old with diameter of 0.7-0.9 cm (Singh, 2012). Rootstocks attain buddable size at different age. It also depends on the climatic conditions and nursery care. \r\nAccording to a research done at Citrus Experiment Station, Coorg, Rough Lemon attained buddable size at 6-7 months, Cleopatra Mandarin at 10-11 months, Rangpur lime attained at 7-8 months and Trifoliate orange at around 16 months. Few days before budding operation, all the leaves, thorns, suckers should be removed up to the point of incision made for insertion of budwood from the ground level. Incision, on the stock, is usually made at a height of 15-20cm from the ground (Rajput and Haribabu 1995). According to Labanauskas et al., (1976) fruit yield decreases with increase in budding height and it was stated that budding at a height of 15 cm gave highest budding success in Cleopatra Mandarin and Troyer Citrange when budded with Valencia Orange. Budding should be done at a height of 22-30 cm in South Indian condition (Aiyappa and Srivastava 1968) where as in Punjab region a height of 15-20 cm is recommended (Nijjar and Nauriyal 1962).\r\nCollection and preparation of bud wood. Bud wood from the desired selected mother plant should be collected immediately prior to the budding operation. The bud sticks should be collected from round twig with white stripes on the bark bearing swollen buds that are healthy and sprouts easily. It is advisable to discard basal one or two buds (De and Patel 2019). The cured scion budwoods after collection should be packed in polybags or cotton cloths containing moistened cocopeat to prevent drying of budsticks by maintaining the moisture and humidity (Fig. 1). Bud sticks after collection should be stored in moist condition or in shade to prevent drying. If in case storage is required, they can also be refrigerated for some time (Hartmann et al., 1997). Salomao et al. (2008) confirmed the storage of bud sticks for 74 days at 5°C with 15 minutes drip treatment in distilled water and solution of NAA, GA3 and 2,4-D without any deterioration effect on viability. For Valencia Sweet Orange and ‘Murcott’ Tangor, the concentration of NAA and 2,4-D used were 200µmol/L and 20µmol/L respectively and for ‘Baianinha’ Sweet Orange 1000 µmol/L and 100 µmol/L respectively.\r\nTime of budding. Budding is done when the bark is slipping, i.e., when the plant is actively growing, cambium is in active condition and thus bark can be easily detached from the wood. In plants this condition may occurs at different season and accordingly there are three types of budding viz., Spring budding, June budding (done in early June) and Fall budding which is done in late summer.\r\nInfluence of budding time on budding success. In citrus, spring budding is generally followed. However, it has been seen successful in other seasons too. When Sour Orange budded on Clementine Mandarin, autumn budding was found superior than the spring budding in most of the characters specially the percentage of budding success, length of shoots, number of leaves/plants, leaf area/plant (Jomaa et al., 2008). In Kodur region, July-September favours better insertion of bud, January, February, June, and August gives higher bud take success while March, May, and November are not favourable for budding (Naik, 1963). Budding during August was found better than July for lemon cv. Pant Lemon-1 on Trifoliate Orange (Poncirus trifoliata) rootstock (Dimri, 1999). Grafting and budding in Mandarin should be performed from 16 to 31 January to get the highest success percentage (Gautam et al., 2001). Various researchers suggested different time for different citrus species and cultivars (Table 1).\r\nFormation of bud union. A series of events follows the completion of budding. Various stages of bud union formation are: Pre callus stage in which the vascular cambiums of both scion and stock are lined up and it lasts up to 5-8 days after budding which, however, may varies according to species. It is stimulated by Auxin production. Next is the callus formation and cambial bridge formation by the callus cells. After 12-15 days of budding, de-differentiation of secondary xylem and phloem takes place that form a potential pathway of communication among the cells, thus establishing connection between scion and stock. The last stage is the wound healing process or healing of the bud union. New xylem and phloem are formed within 6-8 months of budding. Finally callus unites completely after healing (Sharma and Srivastav 2004).\r\nMethods of budding. Various methods of budding such as T-budding, inverted T-budding, chip budding, patch budding, ring or angular budding, I-budding, Flute budding, Forkert budding, Skin budding, Microbudding and Top budding are followed in various fruit crops depending on season or time, species and environmental conditions (Sharma and Srivastav 2004). T-budding and chip budding are common in citrus. The name T-budding is given for the ‘T’ shaped incision made on the stock for insertion of the scion bud (Fig. 2). It is the most common method used commercially. Chip budding as the name indicates, a chip of bark with wood is removed from the stock to make the incision. Therefore, this method does not require bark slipping condition of the plant (Sharma and Srivastav 2004). Bhullar et al. (1980) stated that patch budding gave highest bud take of 95% in Kinnow Mandarin budded on Citrus jambhiri rootstock, followed by ‘T’ budding with bud take of about 85-90% and flute budding with 85%.\r\nBudding success in relation to various states of India. Climatic conditions and season equally influence the budding success. Budding is practiced in February-March and September-October in Punjab and Uttar Pradesh whereas in Saharanpur, 80-85% success was seen when Sweet Orange is budded on C. karna rootstock in June than March and September (Singh, 1954). In Allahabad, mid-winter or early rainy season is recommended (Hayes, 1957). In Gujarat and Maharashtra budding October, November and December are best. While July to September budding is reported best in Kodur region, and September to November in Coorg (Naik, 1963). In North eastern region, the best time for budding is from November to January.\r\nRootstock influence on budding. Rootstocks play a crucial role in grafting and budding; influencing tree vigour, tree height, fruit size, its characters and qualities, precocity in bearing, disease resistant etc. An appropriate rootstock must be easily available, compatible to the scion cultivar and should have strong root system with soil and climatic adaptations. The use of rootstocks in citrus industry dated back to 1842 when phytophthora resistant rootstocks were used. There have been a number of rootstock trials in India since 1920 (Sonkar, 2002). The trials were mainly meant for better growth and superior yield, good adaptation to the local climatic conditions and various other abiotic stresses. It was only 50 years ago when the trial for disease resistance achieved mass attention (Fawcett, 1934). Rootstocks may be produced by seeds or by clonal propagation through vegetative means. Clonal rootstocks are used for producing uniformity, special characteristics, for size and growth habit of the plant. It was observed that budded trees of ‘Kagzi Lime’ budded on Rough Lemon rootstock comes to bearing within 33 months as compared with 46 months for seedling trees (Desai et al., 1994). Kodur Sathgudi (Citrus sinensis (L) Osbeck) budded on ‘Carrizo Citrange’ showed best growth and gave highest yield followed by Troyer Citrange and Rough Lemon (Ramkumar and Ganapathy 1998). A study was conducted on the vegetative growth, yield and fruit quality of four Mandarin and hybrid cultivars budded on four rootstocks viz., Rangpur Lime (C. limonia Osbeck.), ‘Swingle Citrumelo’, \'Orlando Tangelo’ and Cleopatra Mandarin. The study concluded that ‘Swingle\' citrumelo induced reduced size trees in most of scion cultivars (Stuchi et al., 2008). ‘Nova Tangelo’ has adequate characteristics and potential as a fresh fruit market cultivar. Rangpur Lime and Citrumelo are reported to be compatible and tolerant to tristeza (Pompeu et al., 2011). Grace (2012) reported that Sweet Orange (Citrus sinensis L. Osbeck) cv. Sathgudi when budded with Sathgudi rootstock gave higher relative nutrient accumulation indices (RNAIs) with value of 1.00 followed by Rangpur Lime (0.98), Cleopatra Mandarin (0.96), Trifoliate Orange (0.76) and then Troyer Citrange (0.69). C. volkamariana was found to be the best rootstock for Khasi Mandarin in Arunachal Pradesh (Kumar et al., 2016). In a study of rootstock contribution to orange tree qualities and fruit characteristics, it was found that Rough Lemon, Khasi Mandarin and C. grandis were vigorous and excellent in fruit yield. Citrange produced best quality fruit and also resistant to cold. Rough lemon, Sour orange, Khasi Mandarin had good resistance against exocortis. Rough Lemon was found resistant against scab, canker, gummosis and tristeza virus. Khasi Mandarin, Rangpur Lime and Troyer Citrange were resistant to tristeza viral diseases while Sour Orange was susceptible to it (Sharma et al., 2004). Some studies regarding rootstock influence on budding are summarized below in the Table 2 and 3.\r\nMICROBUDDING\r\nA new advanced form of budding known as Microbudding is gaining popularity recently. It is a rapid method of propagating plants which was first developed by Dr. Mani Skaria at Kingsville Citrus Center, Texas A & M University, Texas, U.S. In India, it was first adopted at ICAR-Central Citrus Research Institute, Nagpur and first standardized in Citrus reticulata Blanco. (Nagpur Mandarin) on just 5-month-old citrus rootstocks. Around 15,000 Nagpur mandarin planting material in about 11-12 months and distributed to the farmers. This has also been standardized in Rough Lemon, Rangpur Lime, Acid Lime, recently released varieties like ‘Cutter’ Valencia, ‘Flame’ Grapefruit, etc., in many of the commercial Citrus species as well as exotic cultivars (Vijayakumari et al. 2008). Propagation through Microbudding ensures year-round multiplication of plants and make seedlings available at lower cost than conventional budding techniques as the latter is season specific and takes longer time to form a budded plants to be ready for planting than the former. Besides, different species attain buddable age at different age. In ICAR-Central Citrus Research Institute, Nagpur, Microbudding technique has been performed for producing virus and virus like disease free planting material (Vijayakumari 2019). This method is performed on healthy, five to six-month-old rootstock seedlings. The scion consists of 45-60 days old delicate young buds generally of 3-4mm in size. A wedge-shaped cut of about 2-2.5 cm is given on the rootstock seedling which is beheaded at 15-20 cm above ground and bud is inserted (Kamatyanatti and Singh 2019). Central Citrus Research Institute (CCRI), Nagpur recommends decapitation height of 10 inches from bottom. Emergence of sprouted shoots in Microbudding is reported to take half of the time required in conventional T-budding. Karunakaran et al. (2014) performed this novel method on 5-and 6-months old Rangpur Lime rootstock by using 45- and 60-day-old Coorg Mandarin scion buds under protected structures and in open field conditions. Higher success was reported on six-month-old Rangpur Lime rootstocks when 60-day-old scion bud was used under polyhouse conditions. Microbudding on Rough Lemon with Sweet lime, Grapefruit cv. Sham Bar and Mandarin cv. Feutrell\'s Early showed highest success in sweet lime, followed by grapefruit and Feutrell\'s Early (Alam et al., 2006). Thus, Microbudding, being simple and economical is promising and has wide scope in commercial Citrus industry of India. Procedure for Microbudding is depicted in Fig. 3.\r\nBUD-WOOD CERTIFICATION PROGRAM\r\nCitrus is highly affected by virus such as Tristeza or quick decline, Xyloporosis, Psorosis, Excortis, etc., causing significant loss to the growers. These are bud transmissible and most of them are vector transmissible. Precautions to prevent viral diseases are always a top priority. This has led to the concept of budwood certification programme, which aims at providing virus free budwood to eliminate the causal organism at the time of insertion itself. It was first started in 1937 in California and later adopted by Brazil, Argentina, Philippines, Italy and Israel. In India it was started around 1960’s by ICAR at Assam, Tirupati, Pune and Abohar (Rajput and Haribabu 1995). In California, the program started around 1930s, which is considered as oldest in the world, in the name of “Psorosis free program”. It is now being run with cooperation of University of California Riverside (UCR), the California Department of Food and Agriculture (CDFA), and the California Citrus Nursery Board (CCNB). All the nurseries of California were made mandatory to use plant propagules from registered mother plant. Florida budwood certification has its origin during 1953 for Psorosis, Cachexia and Exocortis disease (Vidalakis et al., 2010).\r\nCertification of mother plant:\r\n1. First is the selection of the “candidate tree”. A candidate tree is the one which gives good yield, true to the type, health and free from any kind of diseases.\r\n2. Once the candidate tree is identified, it is led to a virus indexing program.\r\n3. Virus indexing program is done with a set of indicator plant which are grown in insect proof net house. Indicator plants for different viruses are highlighted in Table 4.\r\n4. Next, a set of indicator plants are budded with budwood taken from the candidate tree. \r\n5. If any symptoms are seen, the set of indicator plants as well as the whole candidate tree are discarded and removed from the program.\r\n6. In either case, the candidate trees are propagated and grown to form the “foundation stock” which delivers the disease free budwood to the nurseries for large scale multiplication.\r\n7. The candidate tree and the foundation stock are kept under strict supervision and control measures are taken to avoid re infection by viruses.\r\n','Nilakshi Bordoloi, L. Wangchu and P.K. Nimbolkar (2022). Citrus Budding: Research Perspectives and Recent Trends. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 14(3): 841-849.'),(5377,'136','Performance on Biomass Carbon of Tree Species for Rehabilitation of Deep Chambal Ravines of Madhya Pradesh','Ramswaroop Jat, Y.P. Singh, P.A. Khambalkar and Shankar Lal Yadav','143 Performance on Biomass Carbon of Tree Species for Rehabilitation of Deep Chambal Ravines of Madhya Pradesh Ramswaroop Jat.pdf','',1,'The present study was conceptualized in 2012 under the Morena district of Madhya Pradesh\'s Niche Area of Excellence of Research Work Plan to control and reclamation of ravines and their management for sustainable livelihood security. To assess the contribution of various plantations after 10 years, the current study, which runs from 2020–2021 to 2021–2022, was done. Several types of native fruit trees and forest trees were assessed on various uneven and flat areas of ravine ground such as Moringa oleifera, Terminalia arjuna, Azadirachta indica, Gmelina arborea, Millettia pinnata, Albizia lebbeck, Acacia nilotica, Dalbergia sissoo, and Justicia adhatoda. The pooled analysis effect of the carbon content of the tree (pounds/plant) varies within different tree species during 2020–2021 to 2021–2022. The results revealed that the highest carbon weight of the tree was recorded for Moringa oleifera (2753.02 pounds/plant), followed by Albizia lebbeck (1637.58 pounds/plant), Azadirachta indica (768.94 pounds/plant), Acacia nilotica (704.23 pounds/plant), Dalbergia sissoo (698.84 pounds/plant), Terminalia arjuna (356.38 pounds/plant), Millettia pinnata (282.65 pounds/plant) and Gmelina arborea (147.93 pounds/plant). While the lowest carbon weight of the tree was recorded in Justicia adhatoda (4.59 pounds/plant).','Biomass carbon, Tree, Rehabilitation, Reclamation and Ravine management','The ravine area has significant effects both on-site and off-site, making it one of the harshest and most sensitive ecosystems. Managing the ravine by planting a variety of tree types will let farmers have more options for a living while also managing the soil\'s health. In comparison to other species, Moringa oleifera may have a good potential for biomass carbon.','INTRODUCTION\r\nThe capacity of ravine land to produce biomass and provide other goods and ecosystem services has declined due to natural and anthropogenic factors. It\'s improbable that these deteriorated places, like ravines land, would be covered with a lush, natural environment. Through various ravine management modules, it is necessary to convert these underutilized biomass land uses into carbon-rich plantations of horticulture, forestry, agroforestry, and medicinal plants. A lot of attention has recently been paid to managing agricultural systems to reduce the impact of climate change through carbon sequestration. Agroforestry offers a lot of potential for preserving and enhancing land-based carbon sinks in degraded areas. Agroforestry may play a significant role in lowering vulnerability, boosting the resilience of farming systems, and protecting families from climate threats by increasing the building of soil organic matter and by producing biomass that can capture more CO2 from the air (Lorenz and Lal 2014). Nowadays, sequestering carbon via a tree-based method is viewed as a lucrative business prospect for carbon trading.\r\nIn order to increase the ability of terrestrial ecosystems to store carbon, restoration strategies including rehabilitation, afforestation, reforestation, natural regeneration of native species, and adaptive conservation forestry approaches are more economically and environmentally sound. The IPCC (2007) also said in its special report that the best opportunity to increase carbon stocks and provide other immediate benefits is through the conversion of grassland and wasteland to agroforestry. Restoration of ravine lands using a methodical, scientific approach can boost C-stock in the soil as well as in above- and below-ground biomass. There are several advantages to increasing the terrestrial C-stock of ravines, including better soil quality and health, renewability and purification of water, increased above- and below-ground biodiversity increased net primary production, and general improvement in the environment (Somasundaram et al., 2012; Dagar and Singh 2018). Compared to other landscapes in the same biome that are not degraded, ravine-prone landscapes have lower soil organic carbon reserves. Therefore, via restoration and rehabilitation, degraded and depleted ravine lands offer the significant technical potential for C-stock (Singh et al., 2018). One of the main pathways for C and nutrient cycling in forest ecosystems is litterfall and fine root formation, and their turnover is influenced by a variety of variables, including species, age groups, canopy cover, meteorological conditions, and biotic factors (Lodhiyal et al., 2002; Stewart and Frank 2008).\r\nTherefore, the present study was conducted in the ravine-prone area of Chambal to assess the carbon sequestration potential of different forest tree species after 10 years of plantation and their contribution to biomass carbon to enrich the organic carbon of ravine land and identify the best tree species for the rehabilitation ravine lands. \r\nMATERIALS AND METHOD\r\nDescription of the study area. The study was conceptualized in 2012 under the Morena district of Madhya Pradesh\'s Niche Area of Excellence of Research Work Plan to control and reclamation of ravines and their management for sustainable livelihood security. The study region is situated at 26°40\'40.84 N latitude and 78°06\'29.21 E longitude, 150 to 240 meters above mean sea level. In these studies, a strong focus on the plantation was placed right from the start. Several types of native fruit trees and forest trees were assessed on various uneven and flat areas of ravine ground. To assess the contribution of various plantations after 10 years, the current study, which runs from 2020–2021 to 2021–2022, was done.\r\nEstimation of Biomass Carbon. The algorithm is used to calculate the weight of a tree (Clark et al., 1986). \r\nBiomass carbon in plants per year. In agroforestry, especially in tropical areas, trees are planted to help store about 50 pounds of CO2 per tree each year. The features of a plant\'s development, the density of its wood, and the environment in which it is planted are just a few examples of the many factors that can influence how quickly carbon is absorbed by plants. Early ages, between 20 and 50 years, saw the highest levels of carbon sequestration. The yearly biomass carbon sequestration rate was determined by dividing plant age to determine the amount of carbon stored in a given plant. The procedure involved determining:\r\n1. Green weight of the tree\r\n2. Dry weight of the tree\r\n3. Carbon content in the tree\r\nGreen weight of the plant\r\nW = weight of the plant (pounds), D = Diameter of stem (inches), H = Height of the plant (feet). \r\nIf D < 11 then, \r\nW = 0.25D2H (1)\r\nIf D >11 then, \r\nW = 0.15D2 H (2)\r\nThe two equations provided could be viewed as the average of all the equations relating to plant species. Depending on the plant species, the coefficient (for example, 0.25), and D2 and H could be raised to exponents just above or below. 20% of the weight of the tree above ground is made up of its root system. Therefore, the above-ground weight of the tree was multiplied by 120 percent to determine the total green weight of the plant.\r\nDry weight of the tree. The plant\'s weight was multiplied by 72.5% to get the tree\'s dry weight. All species are considered in the calculation, with an average tree having dry matter (72.5%) and moisture (27.5%).\r\nCarbon content in the tree. 50% of the average carbon content is often found in the tree\'s overall volume. Consequently, 50% of the plant\'s dry weight is made up of carbon.\r\nRESULT\r\nThe height, diameter and weight of plant above ground of the different tree species is presented in table 1 and depicted in Fig. 1.\r\nCarbon content in the tree (biomass carbon). In the year 2020-21, research findings as per the data presented in Table 2 and depicted in Fig. 2 revealed that the different tree species influenced the carbon content in the tree (pounds/plant). The maximum carbon content of the tree (2650.38 pounds/plant) was demonstrated by the Moringa oleifera plantation followed by Albizia lebbeck (1572.11 pounds/plant), Azadirachta indica (729.19 pounds/plant), Acacia nilotica (671.03 pounds/plant), Dalbergia sissoo (670.59 pounds/plant), Terminalia arjuna (346.76pounds/plant), Millettia pinnata (269.40 pounds/plant) and Gmelina arborea (138.34 pounds/plant). The minimum carbon content of the tree was found in Justicia adhatoda(3.84 pounds/plant).\r\nA perusal of data during the year 2021-22 of the experiment also observed that the carbon content of the tree (pounds/plant) varies significantly within different tree species. Data presented in Table 2 and Fig. 2 revealed that the highest carbon content of the tree of the plant was observed for Moringa oleifera followed by with a value of (2855.67 pounds/plant), followed by Albizia lebbeck (1703.05 pounds/plant), Azadirachta indica (808.69pounds/plant), Acacia nilotica (737.43 pounds/plant), Dalbergia sissoo (727.09 pounds/plant), Terminalia arjuna (366.00 pounds/plant), Millettia pinnata (295.90 pounds/plant) and Gmelina arborea (157.52 pounds/plant). While the lowest carbon content of the tree was recorded in Justicia adhatoda (5.35 pounds/plant).\r\nThe pooled analysis effect of the carbon content of the tree (pounds/plant) varies within different tree species. Data presented in Table 2 and Fig. 2 revealed that the highest carbon weight of the tree was recorded for Moringa oleifera (2753.02 pounds/plant), followed by Albizia lebbeck (1637.58 pounds/plant), Azadirachta indica (768.94 pounds/plant), Acacia nilotica (704.23 pounds/plant), Dalbergia sissoo (698.84 pounds/plant), Terminalia arjuna (356.38 pounds/plant), Millettia pinnata (282.65 pounds/plant) and Gmelina arborea (147.93 pounds/plant). While the lowest carbon weight of the tree was recorded in Justicia adhatoda (4.59 pounds/plant).\r\nDISCUSSION\r\nThe highest carbon content of the tree (above ground + below ground) in pooled varies significantly and was observed for Moringa oleifera (2753.02 pounds/plant), followed by Albizia lebbeck (1637.58 pounds/plant), Azadirachta indica (768.94 pounds/plant),Acacia nilotica (704.23 pounds/plant), Dalbergia sissoo (698.84 pounds/plant), Terminalia arjuna (356.38 pounds/plant), Millettia pinnata (282.65 pounds/plant) and Gmelina arborea (147.93 pounds/plant). While the lowest carbon content of the tree (above ground + below ground) was recorded in Justicia adhatoda (4.59 pounds/plant). The present study revealed that biomass carbon production levels of different tree species varied with the nature and number of the woody perennial grown. Similar observations for above-ground biomass production (642.32 t ha-1) were recorded by Reddy, et al. (2014), who reported 635.33 t ha-1 as the above-ground biomass production in a hilly zone for teak plantation. Kalita et al. (2016) also reported 32.57 t ha-1 above-ground biomass in tea plantation which was slightly lower than the present study (41.37 t ha-1). The teak plant had a bigger girth and taller height than other plants taken under study. As a result, the teak plantation was found to be maximum in above ground, below ground and total biomass production. Bhardwajand Chandra (2016) also revealed, after 25 years of planting on entisol soil, the biomass and carbon stored in plantations of several tree species were assessed. Compared to the average biomass of all tree species (8.15 q/tree), the highest total biomass was recorded in A. lebbeck and E. globulus, followed by 16.66 q/tree. D. indica and D. sissoo had unsatisfactory results because they produced less biomass in entisol soil. A. lebbeck had the largest estimated total carbon stocks in the plantation (942.50 t/ha), followed by E. globulus (520.62 t/ha), and T. arjuna (143.12 t/ha), A. indica (106.87 t/ha), etc.\r\n','Ramswaroop Jat, Y.P. Singh, P.A. Khambalkar and Shankar Lal Yadav (2022). Performance on Biomass Carbon of Tree Species for Rehabilitation of Deep Chambal Ravines of Madhya Pradesh. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 14(3): 850-854.'),(5378,'136','Genetic Variability Studies on Yield and its Related Traits in Indian Mustard [Brassica juncea]','Rahul Kumar, Mukesh Kumar, L.K. Gangwar, S.K. Singh and M.K. Yadav','144 Genetic Variability Studies on Yield and its Related Traits in Indian Mustard [Brassica juncea] Rahul Kumar.pdf','',1,'Existing nature and magnitude of genetic variability, heritability and genetic advance determines the potential of a crop for being responsive to a breeding programme. It is necessary to study the direct and indirect effects of various components on yield also. An experiment was conducted with 10 parents and their 45 crosses in half diallel fashion in Indian mustard for fourteen quantitative characters. Analysis of variance showed significant variation among the genotypes for all the studied yield and yield contributing characters. The phenotypic co-efficient of variation was higher than the genotypic co-efficient of variation for all the characters measured, indicating that the there was major influence of environment. High heritability coupled with high genetic advance as per cent of mean was observed for the characters like harvest index, biological yield per plant, grain yield per plant, number of secondary branches, thousand seed weight, pod length and number of siliqua on the main shoot. Yield is a complicated trait that is governed by a number of supplementary characters or traits. So the traits which are high heritable or have a positive association or correlation with yield can be used for selection in an indirect way. Hence these traits could be considered as the best for exploiting the higher yields in further breeding programmes.','Variability, heritability, genetic advance, yield and Indian mustard','By and large, in the present study, higher GCV, high heritability and high genetic advance as percent of mean were observed for harvest index, biological yield per plant, grain yield per plant revealed that simple directional selection would be effective for improving these traits with connotation that genetic variation was mainly due to the presence of additive gene effects.','INTRODUCTION\r\nThe oilseed crops Brassica napus, Brassica rapa and Brassica juncea are one of the most important sources of vegetable oil globally. In many countries, canola quality (low erucic acid, low glucosinolates) B. rapa and B. napus are the main Brassica oilseed crops. Indian mustard (Brassica juncea) is an important oil seed crop of the world. It is popularly known as rai, raya or laha in India. It belongs to family Cruciferae. Cytologically, Brassica juncea is a natural amphidiploid (2n= 36) derived from interspecific cross of Brassica campestris (2n= 20) and Brassica nigra (2n= 16) (Nagaharu, 1935). The major rapeseed producing countries are Canada, China, Germany and France. The area, production and productivity of rapeseed-mustard in the world was 36.59 million hectares (M ha), 72.37 million tonnes (M t) and 1980 kg/ha, respectively, during 2018-19. India occupies the first position in area and second position in production of mustard after China. Globally, India account for 19.8 % and 9.8% of the total acreage and production (USDA). In India, Soybean, groundnut and rapeseed-mustard contributes nearly 84% and 88% to its total acreage and production, respectively (Average of 2014-15 to 2018-19). The major rapeseed-mustard growing states in India are Rajasthan (44.97% area), Uttar Pradesh (10.60%), Madhya Pradesh (11.32%) and Haryana (12.44%) (https://www.drmr.res.in/about_rmcrop.php).\r\nFor measurement of genetic variability, several biometric tools such as genetic parameters like the genotypic coefficient of variation (GCV), phenotypic coefficient of variation (PCV), heritability and genetic advance (GA) are being used ( Manjunath et al., 2017). Coefficient of variation is helpful in exposing and understanding the clear picture of existing variability within the population. An estimate of genetic advance along with heritability is helpful in assessing the reliability of character for selection. By intermating of superior genotypes of segregating population (developed from combination breeding), the character showing high heritability along with low genetic advance can be improved (Synrem et al., 2014). The biological method of nanoparticle synthesis is a relatively simple, cheap and environmentally friendly method (Kumar et al., 2017). Chakraborty et al. (2021) conclude that significant genetic variation among the genotypes and the traits. The study of contributing characters of the yield can prove to be beneficial in studying the genetic architecture of yield. As a result, a plant breeder would be able to breed for high yielding genotypes with desired combination of traits (Khan and Dar 2010). \r\n\r\nMATERIALS AND METHODS \r\nForty five crosses were made among ten parents during rabi season 2020- 2021 and a set of 55 genotypes comprising of ten parents and their 45 F1 s were sown in randomized block design (RBD) with three replications. Each genotype was sown in three rows each of 5 meter length with a spacing 45 × 15 cm at CRC, SVPUAT, Meerut. All recommended package of practices has been followed to retain a good crop. Five competitive plants were randomly selected for each genotype from each replication. Data on several observations viz., days to 50% flowering, days to maturity, plant height (cm), number of primary branches per plant, number of secondary branches per plant, number of pods on main shoot, length of main shoot, pod length (cm), number of seeds per pod, test weight (g), biological yield per plant (g), harvest index (%), oil content (%), grain yield per plant (g) was recorded. The characters viz., days to 50% flowering and days to maturity were recorded on per plot basis. Means were computed and data were analysed for variances by Panse and Sukhatme (1967) and coefficient of variation as suggested by Burton (1952) and heritability (broad sense) as the ratio of genotypic to phenotypic variance. The expected genetic advance and genetic advance as per cent of mean was calculated as per the procedure of Johnson et al., (1955). All the statistical analysis was conducted by IBM SPSS 22 statistical package (IBM Cooperation, 2019).\r\nRESULTS \r\nAnalysis of variance (ANOVA) for different characters is being presented in Table 1. The results revealed highly significant differences among the material used in the current investigation for all yield related traits viz., days to 50% flowering, days to maturity, plant height, number of primary branches per plant, number of secondary branches per plant, numbers of pods on main shoot, length of main shoot, pod length, number of seeds per pod, test weight, biological yield per plant, harvest index, oil content and grain yield per plant components, among parents, crosses and parents vs crosses, which showed significant differences for all the traits.\r\nThe results of variability, heritability and genetic advance as percentage of mean are presented in Table 2. In the present study, the genotypic coefficients of variation (GCV) for all the characters studied were found to be lesser than the phenotypic coefficients of variation (PCV) indicating the modifying effect of the environment in association with the characters at genotypic level. The difference between magnitude of genotypic and phenotypic coefficient of variation showed low difference for all the characters studied that indicated that there was good correspondence between genotypic and phenotypic expression of traits with low effect of environmental factors operating on the traits. The highest estimate of coefficient of variation was registered for harvest index (GCV = 27.34%; PCV = 27.67%) followed by biological yield per plant (GCV = 24.30%; PCV = 24.64%), grain yield per plant (GCV = 20.52%; PCV = 20.93%), which indicated that the vast inherent variability, that remained unaffected by environmental conditions among the genotypes, was present there, which in turn can be more useful for exploitation in hybridization and/or selection. Our results are in line as per findings for high variance in biological yield per plant was reported by Bind et al. (2014), Seed yield per plant was observed by Singh et al. (2018), Kumar et al. (2018) and Singh et al.(2019) and harvest index was reported by Swetha et al. (2019).\r\nModerate estimates of coefficients of variation were observed for number of secondary branches (GCV = 15.36%; PCV = 15.97%) followed by pod length (GCV = 13.59%; PCV = 14.28%), thousand seed weight (GCV = 13.40%; PCV = 14.06%), number of pods on the main shoot (GCV = 12.03%; PCV = 12.79%) and number of primary branches (GCV = 10.06%; PCV = 10.90%). These results showed that sufficient variability was present there for attempting selections to improve these traits in the genotypes studied. On the other side, moderate PCV and low estimates of GCV were recorded for number of seeds per pod (GCV = 9.90%; PCV = 10.74%) followed by main shoot length (GCV = 9.79%; PCV = 10.61%), Whereas low GCV and PCV was seen for days to 50% flowering (GCV = 7.96%; PCV = 8.96%), plant height (GCV = 7.09%; PCV = 8.16%), days to maturity (GCV = 3.07%; PCV = 3.51%) and oil content (GCV = 1.19%; PCV = 1.34%) indicating a narrow range of variability for these traits there by restricting or limiting the scope for selection which were also reported by Gadi et al. (2020).\r\nIn the present study, the heritability ranged from 75.63% (plant height) to 97.61% (harvest index). High heritability (> 80%) was observed for characters such as harvest index (97.61%) followed by the biological yield per plant (97.33), grain yield per plant (96.11), number of secondary branches (92.52), thousand seed weight (90.89), pod length (90.63), number of siliqua on the main shoot (88.46). Singh et al. (2018) Kumar et al. (2018) Ray et al. (2019) corrobates the similar finding. While number of primary branches (85.15), main shoot length (85.11) and number of seeds per pod (84.94), while oil content (79.36) followed by the days to flowering (79.04), days to maturity (76.60) and plant height (75.63) showed moderate heritability (60 – 80%).\r\nHigh genetic advance as percent of mean (> 20%) was recorded for harvest index (55.64) followed by biological yield per plant (49.40), grain yield per plant (41.43), number of secondary branches (30.44), pod length (26.65), thousand seed weight (26.32) and number of pods on the main shoot (23.31). Moderate genetic advance as percent of mean (10 -20%) is for in number of primary branches per plant (19.12) followed by number of seeds per siliqua (18.80), the main shoot length (18.60), days to 50 % flowering (14.59) and plant height (12.71), whereas days to maturity (5.54) and oil content (2.19) exhibited low genetic advance as percent of mean (>10%). \r\nHigh heritability coupled with high genetic advance as per cent of mean was observed for the characters like harvest index, biological yield per plant, grain yield per plant, number of secondary branches, thousand seed weight, pod length and number of siliqua on the main shoot. On the other side, High heritability coupled with moderate genetic advance as per cent of mean was found for number of primary branches and main shoot length. While moderate heritability coupled with moderate genetic advance as per cent of mean was observed days to 50 % flowering, plant height whereas, moderate heritability coupled with low genetic advance as per cent of mean was observed for oil content and days to maturity. In a study conducted by Kaur et al (2022), High heritability along with high genetic advance (GA) was observed for siliquae/ plant, biological yield/ plant and test weight (TW). Singh et al. (2018) Kumar et al. (2018) Ray et al. (2019) and Tiwari (2019) have also reported the same results.\r\nHeritability is the heritable portion of phenotypic variance. It is a good index of transmission of characters from parents to their offspring. The estimates of heritability can prove to be useful for plant breeders in selection of elite genotypes from divergent population. Heritability does not provide any indication towards the amount of genetic progress that would result in selecting best individual rather it depends upon the amount of genetic advance. Hence, for selection of elite genotypes, high heritability coupled with high genetic advance as percent of mean could be considered. In the present investigation, high heritability coupled with high genetic advance as percent of mean were recorded for harvest index, biological yield per plant, grain yield per plant, number of secondary branches, thousand seed weight, pod length and number of pods on the main shoot which indicated that the traits were controlled majorly by the predominance of additive gene effects thus suggesting the early and simple selection could be exercised due to fixable additive gene effects. High heritability coupled with moderate genetic advance was registered for number of primary branches and main shoot length. indicating that the character is governed by additive genes and may express consistently in succeeding generations, leading to greater efficiency of breeding programme. Moderate heritability coupled with moderate genetic advance as percent of mean was observed for days to 50 % flowering, plant height indicating that both additive and non-additive gene actions had a role in inheritance and phenotypic selection would be effective.\r\nBy and large, in the present study, higher GCV, high heritability and high genetic advance as percent of mean were observed for harvest index, biological yield per plant, grain yield per plant revealed that simple directional selection would be effective for improving these traits with connotation that genetic variation was mainly due to the presence of additive gene effects.\r\n','Rahul Kumar, Mukesh Kumar, L.K. Gangwar, S.K. Singh and M.K. Yadav (2022). Genetic Variability Studies on Yield and its Related Traits in Indian Mustard [Brassica juncea]. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 14(3): 855-858.'),(5379,'136','Influence of Integrated Nutrient Management on Seed Yield of Okra under Palam Valley of North Western Himalayas','Ayush Paul, R.K. Kataria and Anubhav Thakur','145 Influence of Integrated Nutrient Management on Seed Yield of Okra under Palam Valley of North Western Himalayas Anubhav Thakur.pdf','',1,'A field experiment was conducted to study the effect of different quantity of farm yard manure, vermicompost and fertilisers on the seed yield in okra at the experimental farm of Seed Science & Technology department at Palampur. Different seed yield parameters namely days to complete emergence, plant height, capsule length, capsules per plant, and seeds per capsule, shelling percentage & harvest index were recorded. The total number of treatments were ten viz; T1: FYM @ 10t/ha + 75% RDF, T2: FYM @ 10t/ha + 100% RDF (75:50:50), T3: Vermicompost @ 5t/ha + 75% RDF, T4: Vermicompost @ 5t/ha + 100% RDF, T5: FYM @ 5t/ha + Vermicompost 2.5t/ha + 75% RDF, T6: FYM @ 5t/ha + Vermicompost 2.5t/ha + 100% RDF, T7: FYM @ 5t/ha + Fortified Vermicompost 2.5t/ha + 75% RDF, T8: FYM @ 5t/ha + Fortified Vermicompost 2.5t/ha + 100% RDF, T9: FYM @ 5t/ha + Vermicompost 2.5t/ha, T10: FYM @ 10t/ha + Fortified Vermicompost 5t/ha. Treatment T8which consisted of FYM @ 5t/ha + Fortified Vermicompost 2.5t/ha + 100% RDF was found significantly superior for seed yield parameters in comparison to other treatments.','FYM, Okra, Seed Yield, Treatment','Therefore, from the present investigation it can be concluded that seed yield, yield contributing characters such as number of capsules, length of capsules, number of seeds per capsule, recovery and shelling percentage were affected significantly by different treatment combinations. Keeping in these observations it can be recommended that treatment T8 i.e. FYM 5t/ha + Fortified Vermicompost 2.5t/ha + 100% RDF can be used in cultural practices. Further research can be carried out using these treatments in others crops.','INTRODUCTION\r\nOkra (Abelmoschus esculentus L.) commonly known as Bhindi or lady’s finger belongs to family Malvaceae and is a fast-growing annual vegetable crop grown in tropical and sub-tropical regions of world. It is considered as an important vegetable crop cultivated almost across the country under various agro -climatic conditions. India is the major producer of okra (73.2%) in the world followed by Nigeria (12.1%) and Sudan (3.2%), respectively. In India okra is cultivated over an area of 519000 hectares with estimated production of 6371000 MT (Anonymous, 2020). It is a widely adopted and popular vegetable in Indian households and can be grown in summer and rainy seasons throughout the country. Okra is adaptative up to 1523 m above mean sea level in the Shivalik Hills. In Himachal Pradesh, it covers an area of 3920 ha with a total production of 60,950 tonnes (Anonymous, 2020). However, productivity of okra is shallow in Himachal Pradesh in comparison to other states. The main cause for low productivity is poor organic matter status of soil due to misappropriate application of major nutrients in continuous cropping systems. After the occurrence of green revolution, use of synthetic fertilizers was popularized however, today India stands self-sufficient in food grain production, therefore, addition of organic matter either in the form of crop residues or farmyard manure/vermicompost are important sources for supplementing plant nutrients and maintaining of soil fertility. Vermicompost is a type of bio-fertilizer and it is rich in humus and nitrogen fixing microorganisms. Use of fortified vermicompost has a great significance in organic farming as it plays a therapeutic and nutritional role in enhancing the growth, quality and yield of vegetable crops. Bio-fertilizers are gaining importance because they have low cost, non-residual toxicity and have good ability to augment soil fertility and also provide high returns under favourable conditions.\r\nNeither inorganic nor organic amendments solo can prolong organic matter status of soil and maintain the productivity in a particular area and crop. Okra being a nutrient livening crop responds well to added nutrient, in soil. Thus, the integrated nutrient supply system involving the combined use of bio -fertilizers, organic and chemical sources has been considered as best choice for meeting out the nutrient requirement of the crop and ultimately increasing the seed yield.\r\nKeeping in view these factors, the present investigation was conducted at Experiment Farm of Department of Seed Science and Technology, College of Agriculture, Chaudhary Sarwan Kumar Himachal Pradesh Krishi Vishvavidyalaya, Palampur during Kharif 2018 season to study the influence of integrated nutrient management on quality and seed yield of okra in the palm valley under mid hill conditions of Himachal Pradesh.\r\nMATERIALS AND METHODS\r\nThe experimental farm was located at 32°6\' N latitude and 76°3\' E longitude with a height of 1290.8 m above mean sea level in North Western Himalaya. During the crop season (June 2018 to Oct 2018) the weekly maximum and minimum temperature ranged between 23.6 to 32.9 ◦C and 10.1 to 20.6 ◦C respectively. The weekly relative humidity in morning and evening ranged between 28.1 to 98.3 and 20.0 to 87.6 per cent. The mean weekly sunshine hours ranged from 0.5 to 9.5 hours during the growing season. The soil of experimental site was silty laom in texture, slightly acidic in nature and classified as Typic Hapludalf as per the taxonomic system of soil classification. The Nitrogen content at the initiation of experiment was 294.6 Kg ha-1, available phosphorus was 15.6 Kg ha-1 and available potassium was 184.2 Kg ha-1.The experiment was laid out in Randomized Block design comprising of ten treatment combination and replicated four times. The experiment consisted of 10 treatments viz. T1: FYM @ 10t/ha + 75% RDF, T2: FYM @ 10t/ha + 100% RDF (75:50:50), T3: Vermicompost @ 5t/ha + 75% RDF, T4: Vermicompost @ 5t/ha + 100% RDF, T5: FYM @ 5t/ha + Vermicompost 2.5t/ha + 75% RDF, T6: FYM @ 5t/ha + Vermicompost 2.5t/ha + 100% RDF, T7: FYM @ 5t/ha + Fortified Vermicompost 2.5t/ha + 75% RDF, T8: FYM @ 5t/ha + Fortified Vermicompost 2.5t/ha + 100% RDF, T9: FYM @ 5t/ha + Vermicompost 2.5t/ha, T10: FYM @ 10t/ha + Fortified Vermicompost 5t/ha (Table 1). For sowing P-8 variety is used. Before sowing okra seeds were treated with bavistin @2.5 gram/kg. \r\nHand ploughing method is used for sowing with a seed rate of 10kg/ha. Row to Row distance used was 45 cm and plant to plant distance was 15 cm with a depth of 4-5 cm and seeds are covered with soil appropriately. \r\nData was recorded on various parameters like days to complete emergence, number of capsules per plant, plant height (cm), capsule length (cm), Number of seeds/ capsule, 100 seed weight (g), Seed yield - raw seed yield & graded seed yield, seed recovery (%), shelling percentage (%), harvest Index.\r\nSeed recovery percentage was calculated by using following formula:\r\n \r\nUnder laboratory conditions seed were tested for germination after harvesting of crops.\r\nGermination test was conducted in four replications of 50 seeds each by adapting between paper (BP) method as described by ISTA procedures. Each treatment seeds were placed in moist germination paper in incubator at 30℃. Per cent normal seedlings were recorded after 4 days and final count was recorded 21 days after seeding. The germination percentage was calculated as:\r\n After harvest available NPK in soil is also calculated. Data was analysed using OPSTAT software (Sheoran et al., 1998).\r\nRESULTS AND DISCUSSION\r\nData on days to complete emergence is presented in Table 2. Days to complete emergence was not affected by different nutrient management treatments. This could be due to the availability of sufficient moisture content in the soil at time of sowing. Same results were also recorded by Maheshbabu et al. (2008); Devi et al., (2013) in soybean. Similar results were reported in 100 seed weight (g) because test weight is a varietal character and is less sensitive to management practices (Table 2). On the other hand, Plant height was significantly affected by treatments. After 30 DAS significantly higher plant height was observed in treatment T8 while lowest was reported in T9 (Table 2). More plant height was due to proper nutrition availability which resulted in increase in vegetative growth of the plants. These results were in similarity with the finding of Prasad and Naik (2013); Singh et al. (2018) in okra and broccoli. Capsules per plant is most important factor of yield in okra and it was significantly influenced by combined application of chemical fertilizers, vermicompost and biofertilizer. More number of capsules/ plant were recorded in treatment T8 and lowest was recorded in T9 (Table 2). Similar findings with higher number of capsules per plant by integrated application of fertilizers has also been recorded by Meena et al. (2022) and Sonwami et al. (2022) in okra. Different treatments also have significant effect on capsule length and number of seeds per capsule. More capsule length and number of seeds per capsule was recorded in treatment T8 (Table 2). \r\nThis could be due to the higher nutrient use in case of vermicompost fortified with PSB, Azotobacter, and Trichoderma which resulted into early establishment, vigorous and enhanced vegetative growth leading to longer and wider fruits which also resulted into a greater number of seeds per capsule. These finding are also in similarity with finding of (Rana et al., 2018; Kumar et al., 2022) in okra. Use of farm yard manure, vermicompost and fertilizers (T8) had significantly affected the seed yield i.e., raw and graded seed yield (Table 3 & Fig. 1). The main reason for this could be rapid mineralization and constant supply of nutrients from Farm yard manure and vermicompost, which might have met the nitrogen requirement of crop at critical stage. Farm yard manure also acts as nutrient reservoir and upon degradation produces organic acids, thereby absorbed released during entire growth period leading to more growth and better yield components. Same finding was also reported by Chaudhary et al., (2015); Masud et al. (2022). Shelling percentage & Harvest Index had also showed the similar patterns. T8 treatment had shown the highest shelling percentage (61.6%) and harvest index (0.44) as compared to other treatments (Table 3). Same scenario was also concluded by Sharma et al. (2022) in pea. \r\n','Ayush Paul, R.K. Kataria and Anubhav Thakur (2022). Influence of Integrated Nutrient Management on Seed Yield of Okra under Palam Valley of North Western Himalayas. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 14(3): 859-862.'),(5380,'136','Survey, Symptomatology and Host Range of Yellow Vein Mosaic Disease in Pumpkin','Anjaneya Reddy B., Chethan T.R., Ramachandra R.K. , Manjunath Reddy T.B., Mohan Kumar S. and Krishna Reddy M.','146 Survey, Symptomatology and Host Range of Yellow Vein Mosaic Disease in Pumpkin Anjaneya Reddy B.pdf','',1,'The pumpkin is an important vegetable crop in southern India due to its nutritional value. The yellow mosaic disease, transmitted by Bemisia tabaci is a serious disease at many locations. The survey was conducted during kharif 2016-17 to determine the prevalence of incidence of mosaic disease in major pumpkin growing districts namely, Chikkaballapura, Kolar, Bengaluru rural and Tumkuru. The per cent incidence of mosaic disease based on symptoms in field noticed was highest in Kolar (22.30 %) and the least incidence of mosaic disease was observed in Chikkaballapura (19.20%). The symptoms includes mottled leaves with areas of tonal differences in color, shriveled, puckered, or contorted leaves, vein yellowing, Infected plants were stunted and flowers drop prematurely. Host range studies under glasshouse conditions revealed that PYVMD is transmitted artificially by whitefly, Bemisia tabaci. Among 22 host plants tested, 3 plant species, Luffa acutangula (L.) Roxb.] (ridge gourd), Cucumis pepo L. (squash), Legenaria sciceraria (Molina.) Standl. (bottle gourd) were infected with the pumpkin yellow vein mosaic virus disease. The disease was prevalent in all the fields visited with the disease incidence of up to 22.30 per cent and the few cucurbitaceous hosts will serve as reservoirs for the virus.','Pumpkin, PYVMD, Bemisia tabaci, host range and survey ','It is concluded that the PYVMV is prevalent in all the districts surveyed with the disease incidence up to 38.10 per cent. The symptoms of yellow veins in the initial stages followed by yellow mosaic and yellowing are the common symptoms and among the different plant species tested three crop plants viz., Luffa acutangula (L.) Roxb.] (ridge gourd), Cucumis pepo L.(squash), Legenaria siceraria (Molina.) Standl. (bottle gourd) are the reservoirs of the virus. There is a need for continuous monitoring of the virus related to it\'s host range both the crop varieties and the weed hosts for effective management of the disease.','INTRODUCTION \r\nPumpkin (Cucurbita moschata Duch. Ex Poir) is an important vegetable crop in India and is grown extensively throughout the year in different parts of the country. It is one of the most popular summer vegetables grown on commercial scale. The crop is also extensively grown in United States of America, Mexico and China. In India, it is mainly grown in Odisha, Uttar Pradesh, Madhya Pradesh, West Bengal, Chhattisgarh, Karnataka, Tamil Nadu, Kerala and Bihar. In India, pumpkin is cultivated over an area of 67640 ha, with a total production of 1508990 mt and the productivity is about 22.31 mt/ha (Anon., 2016). The crop is cultivated over an area of 1480 ha in Karnataka with the production of 64870 tonnes and productivity of 25.74 t/ha. In Karnataka the major pumpkin growing districts are Hassan, Mandya, Kolar, Haveri, Koppal, Bagalkot, Kolar, Chikkaballpur (Anon., 2006).\r\nThe fruits are having creamy orange color flesh and almost all parts of plant are edible. The fruit contains protein 1.0 g, moisture 91.5 per cent, fat 0.1 g, carbohydrate 6.5g, energy 26 k cal, cholesterol 0 mg, dietary fiber 0.5 g, Vitamin A (7384 mg/100g, Vitamin C (9.0 mg/100g), Vitamin E (1.06 mg/100g), riboflavin 0.110 g, potassium 340 mg, phosphorous 44 mg, iron 0.8 mg and magnesium 12 mg for 100 g edible portion. Because of its high carotene content and good keeping quality, it is considered as vegetable of immense value. The crop has been reported to be affected with a number of diseases. Among them viral diseases are known to cause severe yield losses.\r\n Pumpkin Yellow Vein Mosaic Disease (PYVMD) is an important disease infecting the plants at all stages of growth and is responsible for the distortion and mottling of fruits, which is unmarketable (Nath, 1994). The casual virus is designated as “Pumpkin Yellow Vein Mosaic Disease” (PYVMD) and occurrence of this disease was first reported by Varma (1955) from New Delhi; Capoor and Ahmad (1975) from Pune, Maharashtra; Bharghava and Bharghava (1977) from Uttar Pradesh; Ghosh and Mukhyopadhyay (1979) from West Bengal; Latha and Gopalkrishnan (1993) from Kerala; Babhitha (1996), Jayashree et al. (1999) and Muniyappa et al. (2003) from Karnataka. In 1990 a severe epidemic of leaf curl in muskmelon (Cucumis melo L.) and yellow vein mosaic in pumpkin, caused by begomoviruses, appeared in northern India (Varma, 1990). This epidemic was caused due to increase in whitefly populations early in the cucurbit-growing season. Since then, disease caused by begomoviruses have emerged as a major constraint in the production of a variety of cucurbits in India (Varma and Giri 1998; Muniyappa et al., 2003; Varma and Malathi, 2003).\r\nTwo species of geminiviruses, with bipartite genome, causing PYVM have been reported from India. Tomato leaf curl New Delhi virus-India (Maruthi et al., 2007) has been reported from North India and squash leaf curl China virus-India, from South India. Later, bipartite Squash leaf curl Palampur virus was also reported to be associated with PYVM (Jaiswal et al., 2011). Most of the viruses causing yellow vein mosaic in crop pants belong to genus begomovirus. Taking the severity of the disease in the field in to consideration the work on survey, symptomatology and host range of PYVMV was taken up.\r\nMATERIAL AND METHODS\r\nA roving survey was conducted during 2016-17 to determine the prevalence of incidence of mosaic disease in major pumpkin growing districts of Southern Karnataka (Chikkaballapura, Kolar, Bengaluru Rural and Tumkuru). Plants were observed for the typical symptoms viz., yellowing of veins, mosaic symptoms, mottling etc. For each one acre of field five randomly selected sites (10m × 10m) were selected and the average disease incidence was calculated using the following formula.\r\nPer cent disease incidence (PDI) = \r\n\r\n \r\nTo study the host range for PYVMD and to determine the natural reservoirs of PYVMD, the different plants belong to family solanaceae like tomato, brinjal, chilli, capsicum and cucurbitaceae like bottle gourd, ridge gourd, bitter gourd, watermelon, cucumber, muskmelon and other crops like tobacco, okra, french bean, soya bean, green gram, black gram and also the other weed hosts, which were found in and around the field were inoculated by using viruliferous whiteflies as described by Sohrab (2005). The plants were kept in insect proof net house and observed for symptom expression and the symptoms were recorded. Later the details on date of inoculation, days for symptom expression and number of plants infected and per cent transmission also was recorded.\r\nRESULTS AND DISCUSSION\r\nThe survey was undertaken in four different districts in southern Karnataka. In Kolar district, the percent disease incidence was ranged from 16.30 to 38.10 per cent and in Chikkaballapura district the percent disease incidence was ranged from 14.50 to 22.60 per cent, in Tumkuru district the per cent disease incidence was ranged from 12.70 to 36.30 per cent, and in Bengaluru district the per cent disease incidence was ranged from 12.70 to 28.10 percent (Table 1, Fig. 1 and Plate 1). The disease incidence was varied from taluk to taluk in different districts. This difference may be attributed to different climatic factors, vectors activity, different cultivars and different cultivation practices followed. It may also be due to variation in plant protection practices followed by the farmers, low quality seeds. The similar work was carried out by Namrata (2012), conducted roving survey, pumpkin plants exhibited different kinds of symptoms such as severe yellow-vein mosaics accompanied by leaf curl and stunted growth. The incidence of symptomatic plants varied between fields at different locations and it was ranged from 40 to 80 per cent in monocropping system. Rekha et al. (2005) conducted survey in pumpkin-growing areas of Karnataka to assess the incidence and severity indicated that PYVMD incidences ranged from 45 to 100% in Kunigal and Nagamangala taluks of Tumkur and Mandya districts. Therefore, the natural incidence of pumpkin yellow vein mosaic virus disease would vary from field to field in the surveyed area. \r\nThe symptoms of disease started occurring on 11th day of inoculation and symptoms includes the development of yellow vein mosaic. The diseased plants show vein yellowing, later coalesces to form chlorotic patches. Infected plants stunted in growth and flowers drop prematurely, greatly reducing yields. The entire plants will become yellow vein mosaic in 24-30 days (Plate 2). Similar symptoms of stunted growth, vein yellowing, chlorotic patches, premature flower drop were reported by Muniyappa et al. (2003).\r\nTo identify the natural reservoirs and those susceptible to virus, the host range study of the virus was conducted. Twenty two different plant species belong to family solanaceae like tomato, brinjal, potato, chilli, capsicum and cucurbitaceous crops like bottle gourd, ridge gourd, bitter gourd, watermelon, cucumber, muskmelon and other crops like tobacco, okra, french bean, soya bean, green gram, black gram and also the weed species like Acalypha indica L., Euphorbia geniculata Orteg., Chenopodium amaranticolor, Datura metel L. Parthenium hysterophorus L. from among these only three plant species viz., Luffa acutangula (L.) Roxb.] (ridge gourd), Cucumis pepo L.(squash), Legenaria segeraria (Molina.) Standl. (bottle gourd) have showed virus infection. None of the other plant species including weed species were showed any symptoms (Table 2 and Plate 2). Among the different plant species only three plant species viz., Luffa acutangula (L.) Roxb.] (ridge gourd), Cucumis pepo L. (squash), Legenaria siceraria (Molina.) Standl. (bottle gourd) have showed virus infection (Plate 2). None of the other plant species including weed species were showed any symptoms. This showed that the virus mainly confined to important cucurbitaceous species only. Similarly Muniyappa et al. (2003), studied forty-three crop plants, including 11 ornamental and 13 weed species belonging to 16 families to test their susceptibility to PYVMD. Of all the plants tested few cucurbits viz., summer squash (100%), winter squash (100%), bottle gourd (96%) and N. tabacum, varieties like White Burley and Xanthi., were infected with 7 % and 42% respectively.\r\n \r\n \r\n\r\n','Anjaneya Reddy B., Chethan T.R., Ramachandra R.K., Manjunath Reddy T.B., Mohan Kumar S. and Krishna Reddy M. (2022). Survey, Symptomatology and Host Range of Yellow Vein Mosaic Disease in Pumpkin. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 14(3): 863-867.'),(5381,'136','Impact of Training Need for Papaya Growers in Begusarai District of Bihar','Raju Kumar, M.N. Ansari, Mahesh Kumar and Nirala Kumar','147 Impact of Training Need for Papaya Growers in Begusarai District of Bihar Kumar Raju.pdf','',1,'Papaya is an important and vital table fruit crop of tropical and sub-tropical countries. According to the research, the respondents (61.67%) indicated a medium need for training, which was followed by low and high needs for training (20% and 18.33%, respectively). Additionally, the results showed that all of the chosen papaya farmers gave training in plant protection measures top priority, followed by the areas of high producing varieties and manures and fertilizer management, respectively. Seed treatment was ranked fourth with a mean score of 2.13, followed by weed management in fifth place with a mean score of 2.07, marketing and storage in sixth place with a mean score of 1.93, sowing techniques and timing in seventh place with a mean score of 1.82, raising seedlings in eighth place with a mean score of 1.78, and seed bed preparation in ninth place with a mean score of 1.73. Other significant areas are the timing and manner of transplanting (10th rank), management of irrigation and drainage (11st rank), post-harvest management (12th rank), and marketing & storage (13th rank), all of which show mean scores of 1.62, 1.60, and 1.58, respectively. The study\'s findings regarding plant protection measures showed that papaya growers prioritized the identification of the most common insect pests and diseases as their top priority, followed by knowledge of the use of different insecticides and pesticides and the residual effects of those chemicals as their second and third priorities, respectively. The overall training need of papaya growers was found to be of medium level. Though the present paper attempts to examine the training need of papaya growers of Bihar, the study was confined to Begusarai District of Bihar. Hence, generalization on this could be restricted to other areas with similar condition. The findings of the study were based on verbal appearance of the respondents, therefore the findings were conditioned by the extent of reliable and valid in rank provided by those selected for the purpose of investigation.','Training need, Papaya training need, Impact of training on papaya production','From this study it is found that The respondents (61.67%) indicated a medium need for training, followed by low need (20.00%) and high need (18.33%), in that order. The survey found that the greatest number, or 76.67% of papaya producers, needed the most training in papaya plant protection measures, followed by high producing varieties (71.67%) and 46.67% of papaya growers, who needed the most training in manure and fertilizer management. The priority themes in the training programme for better papaya cultivation should include, in descending order: plant protection measures, high yielding variety, manures & fertilizer management, seed treatment, weed management, marketing and storage, sowing methods and sowing time, raising seedling, seed bed preparation, transplanting method and time, irrigation and drainage management, post harvesting management and harvesting. Within the constraints of a student researcher, this investigation was completed within the allotted time and budget. Survey and action research, however, have more room to grow in this area. Only one district was the focus of the investigation. To verify the results and pinpoint particular issues facing papaya producers, this might be expanded to include all of the state\'s significant papaya-growing districts. To persuade the farmers of the possible yield realizations with the current technology alone, action research to show the technologies at farmers\' fields on a broad scale may be conducted. The study has implication for the planners and policy makers specially related to increase in production and productivity of papaya in a better organized manner considering the commercial impact and crop diversification aspect in future. Specific papaya cultivation zones can be developed in the state based on various resource availability.','INTRODUCTION\r\nFruit cultivation was crucial to agricultural diversity and the provision of food and nourishment for the world\'s population, which is constantly expanding. Fruit crops thrive in Bihar\'s agro-climatic conditions, which are very favourable. The state is third in the nation for vegetable output and fourth for fruit production. The papaya, or Carica papaya, has a prominent place among the fruits. Similar to the banana, it is readily accessible all year long and is simple to grow. Only the banana generates more money per square foot and has more nutritional and therapeutic value. The pharmaceutical, textile, apparel, and other sectors all utilize it.\r\nWith an annual output of over 5.988 million tones and a surface area of 0.138 million hectares, India is the world\'s top producer of papaya (Horticulture Statistics at a Glance-2018). Gujarat and Andhra Pradesh are the two states that generate the most papaya in our nation (1.68 million tonnes each) (1.257 million tons). Bihar produces almost 0.043 million tonnes of papaya over an area of 1900 acres, placing it in 15th place overall (Horticulture Statistics at a Glance-2018). Papaya is mostly grown in the districts of Vaishali, Samastipur, Begusarai, Patna, and Muzaffarpur in Bihar. Bihar has a lower papaya output on average than the rest of the country. However, if the present technology is efficiently distributed to the farmers, papaya yield might be significantly boosted. Our training programmes need to focus more on transferring new technology from the confines of laboratories and research institute to the farmers and make then result oriented. The profitability of papaya farming still has to be improved, however this is due to the numerous production and marketing-related challenges that papaya producers must overcome. As a result, in order to increase papaya output and productivity, papaya producers must receive the most up-to-date training in growing techniques. Training in organizational skills is intended to put information into practise rather than to impart it. Every training session must increase output. Application is more important than theory. The main goal of training is to increase performance. Training need is a gap between the existing and desired level of competency of farmers. As a result, if the gap is substantial, training is required since farmers\' knowledge, attitude, and abilities fall short of what is expected. The current study was conducted with all of these factors in mind in order to identify the training need for enhanced papaya farming and plant protection strategies for papaya producers. According to a study by Kumari and Laxmikant (2016), beekeepers need the most training in a variety of areas to protect themselves from pests, diseases, and other risks. These areas were followed by the beekeeping industry, beehive products and the value of their extraction, processing, and medicinal uses, management of bee colonies throughout the year, and basic tasks. Sharma (2016) found that the majority of marigold producers need instruction in 64% of cases. The farmers discussed how they would like to be trained in many areas, including plant protection, nursery management, fertilizer management, field management, and marketing management. The results of a correlation study showed that education, farm size, yearly income, decision-making behaviour, risk orientation, and marketing orientation were all positively and substantially connected with training needs, whereas age and caste were not. Sharma and Sharma (2014) found that all krishi input merchants (100%) believed that training was necessary in the seed-related sub-areas of type, germination power, viability, and enhanced crop varieties included in the top rank. All respondents (100%) said that there was a need for training in the sub-areas of fertilizer, such as fertilizer type, fertilizer composition, fertilizer application techniques, fertilizer dose calculation, and bio-fertilizer mentioned in the top three. Similarily, all Krishi input dealers (100%) perceived training needs in seed sub-areas such as kind of pesticides, calculation of pesticide dose/ha, major crops pests, and pests management by pesticides included in top rank. According to Verma et al. (2013) research, determining the need for training is the first and most important step in programme development. To fit and be effective in doing their jobs, they need receive suitable training based on their needs, which would assist to enhance output. Following the management of fertilizer, nursery growing, marketing, and field management, the farmers identified a need for instruction on plant protection. It also showed that more than three-fifths of marigold producers (61.66%) fit into the medium category, while 20.00% and 18.34% of marigold growers, respectively, were placed under the high and low groups of training needs. According to Verma and Ansari (2013), all of the chosen potato producers placed the area of high yielding variety as their second top priority after training in plant protection measures. The seed treatment was ranked third in terms of the training requirements for potato producers, behind sowing technique and sowing window. According to the order of merit and their average mean scores of 2.38, 2.31, and 1.88, respectively, the manures and fertilizer management, irrigation and drainage, and weed management were afterwards identified as the key related training requirements areas among the potato producers. The survey found that potato producers desired knowledge on the use of different insecticides and pesticides, the identification of common insect pests and diseases, the causes of spread, as well as the timing and technique of treatment. According to Naik (2006) research, 43.34 percent of groundnut farmers fell into the medium training needs group, followed by the high (29.33%) and low (27.33%) categories. According to Maneria, et al. (2002), the majority of respondents, or 62.50 percent, fall into the medium level of training need category, while 20.83 percent were kept in the high level of training need category, and the remaining 16.67 percent had low level training needs regarding soybean production technology. According to Leihaothabam et al. (2002), the majority of the farmers had medium level (58.33%) of training needs followed by low level (23.34%) and high level (18.33%) of training needs.\r\nMETHODOLOGY\r\nBegusarai district of Bihar state has been identified as the area for present research work in view of its importance in terms of area and total production of papaya crop in the state. There are eighteen blocks in Begusarai district. Five of the eighteen blocks that had the most land planted with papayas were chosen. Two villages from each of the five blocks that had the most land planted in papaya were chosen. Ten communities in all were thus chosen as example villages for this study. There were taken six papaya farmers from each of the chosen villages. Thus a total number of sixty papaya growers was constitute as the sample for the present study and the survey details are presented in Table 1.\r\nAccording to the results in Table 2, the majority of respondents (61.67%) fell into the category of medium need for training, while 20.00% went into the area of low need, and the remaining 18.33% fell into the category of high need. Due to the farmers\' medium level of education, moderate level of extension interaction, moderate level of economic motivation, preference for high risk situations, and small and marginal agricultural holdings, the demand for training was determined to be in the high category. As a result, the government must focus more on implementing need-based training programmes that include course material organized according to the primary areas that have been identified. The urgent need is for district-level extension and training centres to be established, along with vigorous attempts to expand their services to farmers. The results were in line with Adebisi-Adelani et al. (2020); Pale et al. (2019); Pujari et al. (2018); Sahoo and Satapathy (2021); Verma and Ansari (2013). \r\nFurther, the data relevant to the various papaya producers\' agricultural practices was gathered, tallied, and examined. Fig. 1 displays the findings. \r\nAccording to data from Fig. 1, high yielding varieties (about 71.67%) and manure and fertilizer management (roughly 46.67%) were the two areas where papaya producers most urgently needed training. Plant protection measures (76.67%) and high yielding varieties (roughly 71.67%) were the other two. It was found that seed treatment, irrigation, and drainage management, seed bed preparation, marketing, and storage, and raising seedlings, sowing method and sowing time were the areas where papaya growers had the greatest need for training. Weed management was the area where the greatest need for training was found in 56.67% of papaya growers. Additionally, it was found that 55.00% of papaya producers had the least need for training in weed picking, followed by the method and timing of transplanting (50.00%), and 48.33% of papaya growers had the least need for training in post-harvest management.\r\nThere are thirteen distinct cultivating activities for training needs that have been found and are categorized into categories like most needed, needed, and least needed. 3 points, 2 points, and 1 point were used for scoring. Based on the mean score, the order of the major regions was selected. Figure-1 presents the findings. \r\nTraining needs of papaya growers for different cultivation activities: The respondents\' perceptions of the relative training needs of farmers in the thirteen distinct cultivation activities with regard to better papaya farming are shown in Table 3.\r\nOn perusal of data presented in the Table 3 revealed that the Plant protection measures came in first place and were deemed to be the most important training need, with a mean score of 2.77. High yielding varieties came in second place with a mean score of 2.72, while manures and fertilizer management came in third place with a mean score of 2.15. Weed management came in fifth and had a mean score of 2.07, followed by \"marketing and storage\" in sixth place with a mean score of 1.93, \"sowing methods and sowing time\" in seventh place with a mean score of 1.82, \"raising seedlings\" in eighth place with a mean score of 1.78, and \"seed bed preparation\" in ninth place with a mean score of 1.73. The fourth rank was \"seed treatment\".\r\nOther significant activities are the transplanting method and time (10th rank), irrigation and drainage management (11th rank), post harvesting management (12th rank), and harvesting (13th rank), all of which show mean scores of 1.62, 1.60, 1.58 and 1.47 respectively. The majority of papaya producers believed that these tasks were most important. In reality, several diseases and pests frequently impact papaya harvests. Therefore, it seems sense that plant preservation is seen as the top concern. The next crucial topic was thought to be one that farmers had limited opportunity to learn about: high yielding varieties. Therefore, they have acknowledged it as an important area of training needs. The result is similar to the findings of Verma and Ansari (2013); Raina, et al. (2014); Sharma, et al. (2021); Kumar et al. (2020).\r\nTraining need of papaya growers in the sub-areas of plant protection measures: Table 4 displays the data of the relative requirement for papaya growers training in the sub-areas of plant protection measures.\r\nThe results shown in Table 4 show that the sub-areas of identification of major insect pests and diseases for cultivation were considered by the chosen papaya farmers as having the greatest need for training, with a mean score of 2.85. The second and third-placed sub-areas of awareness about use of various insecticides and pesticides as well as residual effects of insecticides and pesticides, respectively, earned mean scores of 2.70 and 2.63. The sub-area connected to \"cause of spread\" was found to be the fourth most necessary, with a mean score of 2.57, while \"preparation of pesticides solution\" was found to be the fifth most necessary, with a mean score of 2.52. The papaya producers said that among the six sub-areas under \"time and method of control,\" with a mean score of 2.47, they felt that training was most necessary. In the sub-area of \"handling of plant protection implements\" where papaya producers scored a mean of 2.25, they demonstrated the least amount of training that was necessary. Controlling infections has long been a significant issue for papaya farmers among the several facets of identifying plant protection. The crop\'s yield is significantly decreased once the diseases occur. Consequently, it makes sense that papaya farmers felt the need for training to take preventative measures against the diseases. The results were in line with Pujari et al. (2018); Raghav & Singh (2020); Sharma (2016); Verma and Ansari (2013); Verma, et al. (2013).','Raju Kumar, Ansari M.N., Kumar Mahesh and Kumar Nirala (2022). Impact of Training Need for Papaya Growers in Begusarai District of Bihar. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 14(3): 868-872.'),(5382,'136','A Study on the Awareness of Women Farmers to Climate Change in Rice Crop in Karnataka','Sampreetha H.N., K. Ravi Shankar, B. Savitha and K. Bhanu Rekha','148 A Study on the Awareness of Women Farmers to Climate Change in Rice Crop in Karnataka Sampreetha H.pdf','',1,'Climate change is one of the serious environmental issues faced by the world. Climate change refers to the long term changes in the climate that occur over decades, centuries or longer. It is mainly caused by the rapidly increasing green house gases in the atmosphere. As agriculture depends entirely on climate, it is the most vulnerable sector to climate change. The production of rice is mostly affected both by rising temperature and availability of water. Women commonly suffer greater risks and burdens from the effects of climate change in the situation of poverty who make up the majority of the world\'s poor, generally have lower income, less access to credit and decision making authority and limited control over resources, increasing their vulnerability to many climate impacts. Majority of the operations in rice crop were carried out by women farmers. Therefore it is necessary to understand whether women farmers are aware of climate changes and its influence in rice crop. An attempt has been made to study the awareness of women farmers on climate change in rice crop. Ex-post facto research design was adopted for the study with a sample of 120 respondents covering two districts of Karnataka. From the analysis, it was found that majority of the women farmers had high level of awareness. Major challenge of the study is to unearth the profile characteristics of women farmers and to determine the factors influencing awareness of women farmers towards climate change in rice crop.','Climate change, Awareness, Women farmers, Rice crop, Karnataka','The study concluded that women farmers had high level of awareness on climate change in rice crop. As the women farmers had high farming experience and undergone primary education they were exposed to climate change indications. Most of the women farmers indicated that television and radio were their main source of information on climate change. So the policy makers can make use of the potential of mass media to spread information on climate change and create more awareness about the cause and effects of the climate change as well as adaptation measures to combat climate change among the women farmers.','INTRODUCTION\r\nClimate change is one of the most defining concerns of today’s world and has greatly altering the earth’s ecosystem. It refers to any change in the climate over time, whether due to natural variability or as a result of human activity (Parry, 2007). An increase in the concentration of atmospheric green house gases has resulted in tremendous rise in global warming. Worldwide temperature have increased more than 0.6 over the past century and it also reported that average temperature will increase between 1.4 to 5.8°C, by the end of 2100 (Intergovernmental Panel for Climate Change, 2014). Climate-smart agriculture is also essential for increasing yields and improving product quality. Agriculture and climate change are inextricably linked. The rapid speed of climate change will undoubtedly have a significant influence on agro-ecosystem productivity. As such the production of most cereals like rice is affected both by rising temperature and availability of water. Rainfall has been found to have a deleterious influence on rice crop throughout the heading and flowering periods. The effects of high temperatures on cellular and developmental processes result in decreased fertility and grain quality (Barnabas et al., 2008). Therefore, climate change is the biggest hazard to the rice cultivation. Most of the farmers had come across the changing climatic conditions but not fully aware of the effects of climate change on agriculture.\r\nWomen farmers are involved both in the production and processing of rice crop and role of women farmers in agriculture is remarkable. Hence, the level of income and welfare of a household largely depends on the degree of women’s effective participation. Majority of the operations in rice cultivation like weed management, nursery management, transplanting, harvesting and irrigation management are performed mostly by the women farmers. They are involved in farm management decision about inputs, hiring of labour apart from monitoring of pests incidence and weeds in rice crop. Nearly half of the human resources in rural areas are women and most of them are unaware about climate change. So it is important to know and understand about whether women farmers are aware of climate change and its effect in order to take necessary measures to combat climate change.\r\nMATERIALS AND METHODS\r\nThe state of Karnataka was chosen for the study purposively. The districts (Shimoga and Hassan) were selected purposively based on highest area under rice crop in Southern Transition Zone of Karnataka as this zone experiences heavy floods. Two taluks from each districts were selected randomly. Two villages from each taluk were selected randomly and from each of the selected village, fifteen women farmers were selected randomly. The sample constituted to a total of one hundred and twenty (120) respondents. The data was collected using a pre tested structured interview schedule and analysed using SPSS. The women farmers were personally interviewed by the researcher.\r\nRESULTS AND DISCUSSION\r\nSocio-economic profile of the women farmers. A socio-economic profile of the women farmers is presented in Table 1.\r\nFrom the overview of data (Table 1), majority of the women farmers in study sample were middle aged (60.00%), educated up to primary and upper primary (almost 45%), had high farming experience (48.33%), semi medium farm size (40.00%), medium annual income (49.16%). Further they displayed medium innovativeness (66.66%) and moderate risk taking ability (40.83%), low source of information (58.33%), low access to weather information (45.00%), low training undergone on Climate Resilient Agriculture (CRA) (50.00%). \r\nAwareness about climate change. In the study sample, 100% of the women farmers claimed to be aware of the climate change. In addition, when questioned about their level of knowledge on climate change in rice, nearly half of the respondents (42.5%) showed ‘high’ awareness about climate change, followed by 30.83 percent had ‘medium’ level and 26.6 percent of respondents had ‘low’ level of awareness about climate change. The women farmers showed a high level of awareness on climate change over time in rice crop mainly due to their extensive farming experience and ongoing participation in numerous farming activities. Medium farm size medium innovativeness also aids to high awareness of women farmers to climate change. Tewari et al. (2019) reported that 91.00 % of farm women were completely aware of climate change indications viz., increased temperature, water level fluctuations (77.00%), and irregular and variable rainfall (69.0%). Chanana-Nag and Aggarwal (2020) stated that large number of women farmers were aware of and affected by high level of drought probability, excess rainfall and heat wave. Lawson et al. (2020) discovered that majority of women farmers saw a shift in temperature, rainfall and the frequency of dry periods. Diarra et al. (2021) documented that women farmers in Cinzana were aware of the effects of climate change. He further added that during the season, 72 per cent of women noticed an increase in daytime temperatures, as well as a drop in rain intensity and quantity. Sohail et al. (2021) reported that farmers were well aware of wastewater\'s fertility potential, but they were less knowledgeable of how dirty water affected crops. Agriculture suffers from the pollution of industrial wastewater discharges. The findings also indicated that the main concerns associated with climate change and how it is affecting agriculture include droughts, temperature changes, floods, and variance.\r\nAwareness about indications of climate change in rice crop. Women farmers, when questioned about awareness of climate change indications, they replied that awareness on changes in climate over a past few yew years ranked I followed by results showed that awareness on increased fluctuation in rainfall pattern in the last few years (II), awareness on the increased average temperature over the last few years (III), awareness on increase in severity of diseases like Blast and Bacterial Leaf Blight in rice due to high relative humidity and temperature (IV), awareness on decreased rice yield due to high temperature during day time (V), awareness on increased major pest infestation like BPH due to high temperature, relative humidity and rainfall (VI), increased frequency of winds over the last few years (VII). The women farmers were made more aware of these climate change situations because they directly affect farming and high education, farming experience and farm size also contributed to their high awareness.\r\nThe lowest ranks were assigned on the statements like awareness on the smut tolerant varieties of rice (XVII), flood tolerant varieties in rice like Swarna sub 1, FR13A (XVI), drought tolerant varieties in rice like IET-7191, KHP-2 (XV), increased rainfall at the time of flowering and low temperatures causing severity of Smut disease in rice (XIV) and low temperatures during pollination leading to spikelet sterility in rice (XIII). Women farmers lack adequate information regarding these aspects due to lack of training programmes, source of information and lack of innovativeness.\r\nRelation between characteristics of women farmers and their level of awareness on climate change in rice crop.\r\nThe coefficient of correlation was calculated to determine the relationship between selected characteristics of women farmers and their level of awareness of climate change in rice crop. \r\nData on the correlation between selected socio economic, personal and psychological characteristics comprised of age, education, farming experience, farm size, annual income, innovativeness, risk taking ability, sources of information, access to weather information, trainings undergone on Climate Resilient Agriculture (CRA) and their level of awareness towards climate change (Table 2).\r\nIt is clear from the above table that out of ten independent variables selected to study the relationship with level of awareness of women farmers towards climate change, all the variables except risk taking ability were found to have positive (and significant) relationship with the dependent variable i.e., level of awareness of women farmers. Further, one variables i.e., farming experience – was found to have significant positive relationship with farmer’s level of awareness at 1 per cent level of significance and the remaining eight variables were found to be significant at 5 per cent level of significance. It may be due to the reason that more the farming experience of the women farmer, greater is the exposure to wide range of weather extremes and encountered a wide range of scenarios of climate change and its impact on farming. Thus, age, education, farming experience, farm size, annual income, innovativeness, sources of information, access to weather information had a significant and positive relation with the level of awareness of women farmers towards climate change. On the other hand risk taking ability was negatively correlated with the level of awareness of the women farmers towards climate change.\r\n','Sampreetha H.N., K. Ravi Shankar, B. Savitha and K. Bhanu Rekha (2022). A Study on the Awareness of Women Farmers to Climate Change in Rice Crop in Karnataka. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 14(3): 873-877.'),(5383,'136','Factors Influencing the Adoption of Pre-and Post-Harvest Management Technologies of Groundnut in Telangana State','Yasa Sirilakshmi, G.D.S. Kumar and M. Jagan Mohan Reddy ','149 Factors Influencing the Adoption of Pre-and Post-Harvest Management Technologies of Groundnut in Telangana State Yasa Sirilakshmi.pdf','',1,'Groundnut (Arachis hypogea) is one of the important oilseed crop due to its nutritional value and high consumption all over the world. India ranks second in groundnut production in the world. Groundnut seeds contains (40–56%) edible oil, (20–30%) protein, (10–20%) carbohydrate and several nutritional components. There is a gap between the yield obtained in demonstrations plots and farmers’ fields. There are several reasons that contribute for these yield gaps, non- adoption of recommended technologies is one of the major reason. The reasons for non-adoption may be due to low knowledge and other socio-economic constraints encountered by the farmers. The present study was conducted in Mahabubnagar district of Telangana State. A total of 60 respondents were selected from 8 villages of Koilkonda and Mohammadabad mandals by simple random sampling method. Majority (56.7%) of groundnut farmers belonged to medium level of adoption. The characteristics like age had negative and non- significant relationship with extent of adoption of technologies while size of landholding, annual income, farming experience, irrigation potential, social participation, input acquisition pattern, achievement motivation, risk taking ability, market intelligence had positive an significant relationship with extent of adoption technologies and education, annual income, information seeking behaviour and knowledge had positive and highly significant relationship with extent of adoption pre- and post- harvest management technologies of groundnut crop.','Groundnut growers, socio-economic characters, adoption, pre- and post-harvest technologies','Farmers of the district had adopted the recommended practices of pre-harvest management in groundnut such as recommended variety, optimum seed rate and spacing, irrigation management, weed management and timely management of pests and diseases. But, the adoption of post-harvest management practices such as proper drying (<8% moisture level) and storing in hermetic bags, which are very important to reduce the aflatoxin contamination and storage pests were less than the anticipated. Farmers had not adopted any value addition in groundnut at farm level due to the need for immediate sale to local agents and local market to clear off the borrowed loans. \r\nFurther it is suggested that farmers need to be educated on the adoption of the technologies through conducting proper trainings on crop management practices, demonstrations, creating awareness on the importance of value addition in groundnut, increasing the frequency of contact of extension agencies for timely information and establishment of processing units at local level will go a long way in popularizing the post-harvest management practices.\r\n','INTRODUCTION\r\nGroundnut (Arachis hypogea) is one of the important oilseed crop due to its nutritional value and high consumption all over the world. India ranks second in groundnut production in the world. The NARS has developed many new technologies for increasing the yield of groundnut, but the adoption of these technologies by the farmers is far less than the anticipated. There is a huge Yield Gap between FLDs plot and farmers’ practice. There are several reasons that contribute for these yield gaps, non- adoption of recommended technologies is one of the major reason. The reasons for non-adoption may be due to low knowledge and other socio-economic constraints encountered by the farmers. Hence, awareness has to be created among farming community about the suitable technologies in groundnut cultivation. Adoption of proper pre- and post-harvest management technologies plays a crucial role for improving famers’ yields. Timely and proper adoption of the recommended technologies is important to control the incidence of pest and diseases and for obtaining the potential yield. The present study was conducted with the objectives to study the profile characteristics of the groundnut farmers, analyse the practice wise extent of adoption of pre- and post-harvest management technologies, and understand relationship between profile characteristics of groundnut farmers and their extent of adoption of pre- and post-harvest management technologies .\r\nMETHODOLOGY\r\nThe study was conducted in Mahabubnagar district of Telangana State. Two mandals from the district viz., Koilkonda and Mohammadabad were selected based on the highest area under groundnut. From each mandal, four villages were selected based on the area under groundnut and FLD conducted in the villages. Sixty respondents were selected from the eight villages by simple random sampling method. The variables were selected based on the discussion with the experts. A semi-structured schedule was developed for the study and data were collected by personal interview of the respondents. To measure the extent of adoption of recommended pre- and post-harvest technologies in groundnut, the important practices (15 items) were listed and responses of farmers were recorded on a three-point continuum. Based on the farmers’ response, a score of 3, 2 and 1was given for full adoption, partial adoption and low adoption, respectively.\r\nRESULTS AND DISCUSSION\r\nSocio-economic characteristics of farmers. The results (Table 1) indicated the distribution of the farmers according to their profile characteristics. More than half of the respondents belonged to middle age group (60.0%), where as most (26.7%) of the farmers were educated up to primary level. Majority (40.0%) of the farmers possessed small size land holdings and most (43.3%) of the famers belonged to lower- middle group of annual income. Majority (70.0%) of the farmers had medium farming experience, categorized under low training (63.3%). In case of irrigation potential, majority (48.3%) of farmers had bore well as a major source of irrigation, medium level of social participation (56.6%), medium input acquisition pattern (53.4%), medium information seeking behaviour (66.7%), medium achievement motivation (65.0%), medium risk orientation (55.0%), medium knowledge (60.0%), low market intelligence (46.6%) and medium adoption (56.7%).\r\nExtent of adoption of pre- and post-harvest technologies by the farmers. The results (Table 2) indicated that majority (56.7%) of the farmers belonged to medium level of adoption followed by low (25.0%) and high (18.3%) adoption level. The reason for medium to low adoption might be because of medium knowledge, medium risk taking ability, medium input acquisition pattern and no proper trainings received regarding management technologies, low awareness about the new technologies. The results were similar with the findings of Shasani et al. (2020); Hadiya et al. (2016).\r\nThe results (Table 3) indicated that majority of the farmers fully adopted the practices such as land preparation (85.0%), followed by use of improved seeds (80.0%), fertilizers (71.7%), optimum time of harvesting (65.0%) and time of sowing (60.0%), dry pod threshing (58.3%), management of pest and diseases (53.3%) and weed management (50.0%). Farmers had proper knowledge and benefited by adoption of the practices in reducing the yield losses due to pests and diseases, producing quality produce due to optimum time of sowing and proper use of good quality seed and hence will continue to use the recommended practices each season. \r\nThe practices which were partially adopted by the farmers were optimum spacing (60.0%), recommended seed rate (45.0%), water management (36.6%), weed management (31.6%), sun drying of groundnut pods (30.0%), optimum time of sowing (28.3%) and threshing (26.7%). Majority of the farmers had not -adopted any value addition in groundnut (91.6%) and sold their produce directly in the market, seed treatment (78.3%) and use of hermetic bags for storage of groundnut pods (63.3%). Few of the farmers had not adopted management of pests and diseases (31.7%), sun drying of groundnut pods (26.7%), optimum seed spacing (25.0%) and optimum seed rate (21.7%). Farmers were not aware of the technologies, lack of processing units for value addition in groundnut, poor knowledge about importance of the seed treatment, lack of proper trainings, majority of the farmers were not able to purchase the hermetic storage bags because of high cost.\r\nThe results (Table 4) indicated that the age had negative and non-significant relationship with extent of adoption.\r\nThe independent variables like education, size of landholding, annual income, farming experience, trainings undergone, irrigation potential, social participation, input acquisition pattern, information seeking behaviour, achievement motivation, risk taking ability, knowledge, market intelligence had positive and significant relationship with extent of adoption pre- and post- harvest management technologies of groundnut crop. The findings were in congruence with of that of Shasani et al. (2020); Meena et al. (2019); Kumar et al. (2019); Prasad et al. (2019); Gorfad (2018), Hadiya et al. (2016); Rai et al. (2016); Chand and Meena (2011).\r\n','Yasa Sirilakshmi, G.D.S. Kumar and M. Jagan Mohan Reddy (2022). Factors Influencing the Adoption of Pre-And Post-Harvest Management Technologies of Groundnut in Telangana State. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 14(3): 878-882.'),(5384,'136','Assessment of Genetic Variability and Heritability in Gerbera (Gerbera jamesonii L.) Cultivars','M. Vijayalaxmi, A. Manohar Rao, A. Nirmala and K. Swathi','150 Assessment of Genetic Variability and Heritability in Gerbera (Gerbera jamesonii L.) Cultivars M. Vijayalaxmi.pdf','',1,'An attempt was made to study the extent of genetic variability, heritability, genetic advance and genetic gain for vegetative and floral characters of Gerbera (Gerbera jamesonii L.) under naturally ventilated polyhouse. Varieties namely Balance, Stanza, Savannah, Dana Ellen, Goliath, Primerose, Helix, Liberty, Sabrina and Montenegro were selected for their evaluation. Consumers desire characteristics such as good blooming quality and a long vase life since they enhance value and are more likely to make a good and lasting impression on the gift recipient. Hence, there is need to study their performance in different growing medium and conditions for the development of production technology for better yield and quality of the produce round the year. Notable variations were registered for twenty parameters studied in a layout of randomized block design with three replications during 2015–2016. The range of variation was high for duration of flowering from 238.33 to 266.13 followed by leaf area ranged from 123.93 to 197.92. Analogy of genotypic and phenotypic co-efficient of variation for distinct characters indicated that the value of PCV wasfound to be higher than GCV due to influence of environment. The higher GCV and PCV estimates registered for number of ray florets per flower (41.27% and 41.92% respectively) followed by number of suckers per plant (19.72 and 26.45 respectively). Heritability in the broad sense ranged from 96.89 for ray florets to 55.56 for suckers’ number per plant. However, high heritability was associated with high genetic advance was recorded for number of ray florets per flower (76.15) followed by leaf area (51.68) indicating existence of adequate genetic variability for selection in these traits. Great heritability accompanied with low genetic advance for the characters days to first flower opening, 50% flowering and duration of flowering implies that non-additive gene action.','Heritability, genetic advance, genetic gain, gerbera, genetic variability','Yield attributes can be obtained through effective selection based on heritability and genetic advance estimates. The results from high heritability accompanied with low genetic advance for the characters days taken to first flower opening, 50% flowering and duration of flowering implies that there is no additive gene action. More number of ray florets, leaf count per plant and number of flowers per plant which exhibited high heritability along with greater genetic gain which implies that these traits could be used to select genotypes for a significant improvement in cultivation, especially under polyhouse conditions.','INTRODUCTION \r\nGerbera (Gerbera jamesonii L.) is a very attractive and high value cut flower, connected to close family Asteraceae; a well-known cut flower grown all over the world in a varied meteorological condition. It is famously known as \'Barberton daisy\' or \'Transvaal daisy’. The daisy ranks fourth in the worlds cut flower trade and a popular cut flower in Holland, Germany and USA (Sridhar and Biradar 2016). With its huge, brilliant flowers and stemless perennial nature, gerbera has gained favour among those who enjoy flowers. This flower comes in a very wide range of variations. The freshness and long lasting characteristics of this flower used as decorative flower in parties, functions and flower bouquet.\r\nThe daisy-like flowers grow in a wide range of colors including yellow, orange, cream-white, pink, brick red, scarlet, maroon, terracotta and various other intermediate shades. The center floral disk can range from a yellowish to light-bronze to black in color.\r\nIn the recent years, floriculture is quickly growing as highly competitive, commercial and economic industry with the potential to generate significant foreign exchange aided by liberalization of economy and import policy. As a result, several adventures and enthusiastic entrepreneurs and nursery men are taking advantage of this opportunity and bringing the newest and improved gerbera cultivars from abroad for cultivation in the state and elsewhere. Additionally, a number of reputable companies here in the country have begun supplying improved plant materials multiplied through tissue culture techniques.\r\nThe consumer preferences changes with time and longevity of cut flowers. Hence crop improvement is necessary right now in order to maintain the supply of desirable cultivars Improvement through selection is dependent on the variability present in the genotypes that are now accessible, which may be caused by variations in the genetic constitution of cultivars or in the growing environments. Gerbera is a vegetative propagated crop through suckers on commercial scale and selection is an easy method for varietal improvement in it. Selection is successful only when the observed variability in the population is heritable in nature. Genetic variance, heritability and other genetic factors are reported to be subject to fluctuations with changing environments (Lal et al., 1985).\r\nAs the profitable cultivation of gerbera is obtaining importance, introduction and popularization of high yielding varieties and better quality is necessary. Thus, it is important to investigate morphological variation and genotypes performance in a new environment to enhance the efficiency of a breeding programme. It is crucial to estimate the heritability and genetic advance of the significant yield attributing traits in a crop as well as the nature and extent of genetic variability in the germplasm for a successful breeding programme. Therefore, the current investigation was carried out to comprehend the heterogeneity within the ten gerbera cultivars and their respective performance.\r\nMATERIAL AND METHODS\r\nThe polyhouse trail was carried out at division of Floriculture and Landscape Architecture, College of Horticulture at Sri Konda Laxman Telangana State Horticultural University, Rajendranagar, Hyderabad, during 2015-2016. The leaves and roots were cut off, and the healthy suckers were separated from the clump. Thereafter, the suckers were then planted taking extreme care to avoid burying the crown under soil. A 30 x 30 cm space between the suckers was used to plant about 16 plants in each plotin double row zig-zag pattern in completely randomized system with three replicationscomprising of ten different cultivars viz., Balance, Dana Ellen, Goliath, Helix, Liberty, Montenegro, Primerose, Sabrina, Savannah and Stanza.\r\nIn the early morning, planting was done immediately, and then irrigation water was applied. Manual weeding was used to keep the plots free of weeds throughout the growth season. Numerous cross-cultural practices, including irrigation, earthing up, removing dried leaves and blossoms, etc., were carried out on a regular basis to ensure optimal plant growth and development. In each replication, five selected plants from each cultivar were measured onplant height, number of leaves per plant, leaf length, leaf breadth, leaf area, leaf area index, number of suckers per plant per year, chlorophyll content, first flowering, flower diameter, flower stalk diameter, length of the flower stalk, number of ray florets, disc diameter, days take to flower 50%, duration of flowering, field life, number of flowers per plant, fresh weight and dry weight of flowers.\r\nThe Singh and Chaudhary (1985) technique was used to compute the genotypic and phenotypic coefficients of variation. Parameters of variability were estimated as per formula provided by Burton (1952). Heritability in broad sense was determined according to the methodology given by Allard (1960). From the heritability estimates the genetic advance and predicted genetic gain were calculated by using formula given by Johnson et al. (1955). \r\nRESULTS AND DISCUSSION\r\nIn ten daisy cultivars, the degree of variability with regard to twenty quantitative characters were calculated in terms of mean performance, phenotypic coefficient of variation (PCV), genotypic coefficient of variation (GCV), heritability, genetic advance, and genetic gain are shown in Table 1. The range of variation was high for duration of flowering from 238.33 to 266.13followed by leaf area ranged from 123.93 to 197.92. While leaf area index showed lowest range was recorded from 0.14 to 0.21.\r\nFor all the traits under study, the phenotypic coefficient of variation (PCV) was greater than genotypic coefficient of variation (GCV), indicating how environment affect the expression of cultivar. Rajiv Kumar et al. (2012) also reported higher PCV than GCV for various traits. It was indicating the importance and influence of interaction of environment expression of the characters. The differences between the PCV and GCV were relatively very small which indicated that large amount of variability was contributed by genetic component and less by environmental influence. However, close correspondence was seen between GCV and PCV for some characters like leaf area, leaf area index, first flower opening, number of ray florets, days taken to flower for 50% and flowering duration, noticing little influence of environment on these characters. But, Anand et al. (2014) was also seen a close correspondence between GCV and PCV for certain characters like plant height, leaf length, number of suckers plant, stalk length and numbers of flowers per clump per year indicating little influence of environment on these characters.\r\nThe highest genotypic coefficient of variation (GCV) and phenotypic coefficient of variation (PCV) were found for number of ray florets per flower (41.27% and 41.92% respectively) followed by number of suckers per plant (19.72 and 26.45 respectively), number of leaves (23.88 and 25.33), dry weight flower (22.70 and 27.06) and flower count per plant (20.29 and 21.83) suggesting that these characters are under genetic control. Hence, these characters greater scope for further improvement. Chobe et al. (2010) reported same results observed for number of ray florets flower-1 and Anand et al. (2013) obtained for number of leaves, number of suckers and number flowers per plant. Senapati et al. (2013) reported the highest GCV and PCV were recorded for number of leaves per plant, followed by number of clumps per plant, leaf area index and hollowness of the stalk, indicating high variation in these characters, predicting greater scope for improvement of these four characters. The low estimate of GCV and PCV were recorded for duration of flowering (3.90 and 4.11) after days taken for 50% blooming (4.96 and 5.34). This implied that there was little variance in these traits amongst cultivars. The lesser number of genotypes evaluated might be the probable reason attributed for low variability.\r\nEstimates of heritability in a wide sense give a measure of transmission of characters from one generation to another. Thus, giving an idea about the heritable portion of variability which enables the plant breeder to isolate elite selections in the crop. Heritability and genetic advance increase efficiency of selection in a breeding programme by assessing influence of the environmental factors and additive gene action.High heritability was observed for all the vegetative and floral characters under study. Sunil Kumar (2014) also suggested high heritability for most of the quantitative traits in gerbera.\r\nWhen heritability is studied along with genetic advancement, the determination of heritable variation becomes more accurate. In the current study, ray florets showed high heritability associated with high genetic advance (96.89 and 76.15) followed by leaf area (92.32 and 51.68) indicating the possible role of additive gene action in their inheritance. As a result, these characteristics are found suitable for selection. Therefore, response to selection could be anticipated in improving the yield. \r\nHigh heritability with low genetic advance recorded for number of leaves per plant, first flower opening, Length of the flower stalk, Days taken for 50% flowering, Duration of flowering. Similar findings obtained by Ghimiray and Sarkar (2015) for circumference of plant, days to visibility, days to full bloom and days to opening of flower buds had low estimates of genetic advance but high heritability indicating greater contribution of non-additive gene effect in controlling these characters as was also observed by Chobe et al. (2010) for days to first flowering, vase life and number of flowers/ plant/year. The high heritability is being exhibited due to favourable influence of environment rather than genotype. Medium heritability with low genetic advance exhibited in plant height, leaf length, leaf breadth, diameter of flower, diameter of flower stalk and flower dry weight.\r\nGreater heritability (>60%) accompanied with high genetic advance as percentage of mean (GAM >20%) was obtained in almost all characters except chlorophyll content, days to take flower for 50% and duration of flowering indicating contribution of additive gene effects in the expression of these traits and proving more useful for efficient character improvement through simple selection. Similar results have been reported by Raj Narayan et al. (2016), Rajiv Kumar (2013) and Rajiv Kumar (2015) stated that greater heritability paired with high genetic advance as per cent of mean was recorded for leaf count per plant, leaf breadth, suckers’ number per plant. \r\nAmong the flower characters, the traits that determine the earliness specifically days taken for first flower opening, 50% flowering and duration of flowering recorded a very high heritability (94, 86 and 90%) but a low genetic advance (9.51, 8.08 and 19.42) with low genetic advance as percentage of mean (13.05, 9.49 and 7.64 %) which indicates non-additive gene action. The high heritability is being showed due to suitable environment instead of genotype, selection for these traits may not be rewarding. Anujaand Jahnavi (2012) reported same results for days taken to flower 50% and duration of flowering in French Marigold.\r\n','M. Vijayalaxmi, A. Manohar Rao, A. Nirmala and K. Swathi (2022) Assessment of Genetic Variability and Heritability in Gerbera (Gerbera jamesonii L.) Cultivars. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 14(3): 883-887.'),(5385,'136','Pools and Fractions of Inorganic Phosphorus in Indian Soil and Evolution of its Fractionation Schemes: A Mini Review ','Anwesha Das, Arkaprava Roy, Dolgobinda Pal and Animesh Chowdhury','151 Pools and Fractions of Inorganic Phosphorus in Indian Soil and Evolution of its Fractionation Schemes A Mini Review Arkaprava Roy.pdf','',1,'On account of its participation in important physiological processes such as photosynthesis and energy conversion, phosphorus (P) is crucial for all forms of life on earth. The role it plays in maintaining and increasing soil fertility, especially under intensive farming system, is also indispensable. \"Solution P,\" \"sorbed P,\" and \"mineral P\" are the three broad, theoretically defined pools of soil inorganic P (Pi). Soil Pi might be \"labile\" or \"nonlabile\" regarding plant availability. By applying successively stronger extractants to the soil, fractionation produces information about the association of P with various soil phases. The transformation of applied P in soil and the uptake of P by plants are both significantly influenced by fractionation pattern of P, thus making it crucial. As the main physicochemical characteristics of the soil change, the fractionation of P in the soil also varies. The P fractions in Indian soils vary significantly in terms of soil characteristics. Over the past six decades, researchers have come up with several approaches to evaluate various soil Pi fractions as accurately as possible. However, there is still a lot of scope for improvement in terms of designing a robust extraction technique that works in a wide range of soils.','Phosphorus, pools, P-fractions, Indian soil, fractionation schemes','Phosphorus plays a vital role in enriching and sustaining soil fertility. Solution P, sorbed P, and mineral P are the broad conceptually defined pools of soil Pi. Soil Pi can be \'labile\' or \'nonlabile\' in terms of plant availability. By sequentially treating the soil with increasingly stronger extractants, soil fractionation generates information regarding the partitioning-pattern of P with different soil phases. Knowledge about various forms of any nutrient in soil is essential since not all the forms contribute equally to a specific process. Analytical fractionation of soil P has been used in studies pertaining to the development of soil tests for P, assessment of the contribution of various P fractions to crop nutrition, conversion of added fertilizer P into various soil P fractions, prediction of crop response to applied P, and as a weathering index. In neutral, alkaline, calcareous, and sodic soils, Ca-P is the dominant fraction. Whereas, in acid, red, and lateritic soils, Al- and Fe-P predominate. Plant P uptake is invariably connected to Al-P and Fe-P, and this has been observed even in Ca-P dominating soils. Under reducing conditions, a significant portion of Fe-P (and in some cases, occluded P) is rendered soluble and becomes crucial in rice crop nutrition. Legumes and oilseed crops require a great deal of Ca-P. In Entisols, correlation studies have revealed that Al-P and Fe-P are more important sources of bioavailable P than Ca-P. Chemical weathering is measured by the distribution of Pi in soils, with Ca-P getting weathered first, followed by Al-P, Fe-P, and occluded-P. As the primary physicochemical parameters of soil change, so does the fractionation of P in soil. Over the last six decades, experts have presented many techniques to quantify various fractions of soil P. However, more efforts remain to be put in terms of developing a consistent extraction technology that works in wide spectrum of soils.','INTRODUCTION\r\nFor plants, phosphorus (P) is an essential macronutrient (Chan et al., 2021). It is crucial for sustenance and build-up of land fertility, particularly under intensive agriculture (Yasmeen et al., 2022). In soil, available P is always in dynamic equilibrium with other forms of P that are not extracted by conventional soil test methodology. One way to know those different forms of P is to study P-fractionation. Numerous investigations have been undertaken on the dynamics of P fractionation in soil system to gain a deeper insight into its fixation and release pattern (Lizcano-Toledo et al., 2021). The critical concern in actual practice is to know how much P from the native soil pool can be made available to the crops growing in the field. The average mineral soils contain far less P than other macronutrients such as potassium, calcium, magnesium, or nitrogen. More crucially, plants cannot easily access the majority of the inorganic P (Pi) present in the soil. Even under favourable soil conditions, when soluble fertilizer salts are added to the soil, P is quickly fixed and rendered unavailable to higher plants. Phosphorus in soil fertility faces a three-fold challenge (Mardamootoo et al., 2021). First off, the total P level, in general, is low in soils ¬— typically between one-tenth and one-fourth of nitrogen and one-twentieth of potassium content. In the top fifteen cm of a ha of soil, the total P content ranges only from 200 to 2000 kg. Secondly, the common P compounds that are found in soils have very low solubility and contain P mostly in unavailable forms. Thirdly, soluble forms of P, like those found in fertilizers and manures, are fixed and converted into very insoluble compounds once introduced into soils. It has been observed that the vast majority of soils are unable to consistently deliver enough P to plants. Despite sustainability issues, continuous use of P fertilizers can solve this problem in cultivated soils. Given that soil-based fertilizer reaction products are the main source of P to plants, understanding how this element is partitioned into different inorganic forms is crucial (Prasad and Shivay 2021). In addition, it is also essential for comprehending the genesis and fertility of soil. The distribution of different forms of Pi in the soil reflects its chemical characteristics, age, drainage, and mineralogical makeup. The differential fate of applied P fertilizers under varying soil conditions can be traced only with the help of fractionation study. Apart from that, in order to evaluate the P uptake by crops, one must be aware of the quantities of each fraction and the related affecting factors. Since different phosphate forms have varied solubility, their distribution may provide a clue as to the amount of P that is available to plants.\r\nFORMS OF PHOSPHORUS IN SOILS \r\nSoil contains P in both organic and inorganic forms. Knowledge regarding different forms of P is essential for understanding how plants use P and how much P can flow through the environment. Phosphorus is the least mobile of the major plant nutrients. Soil P pools have been conceptualized as \"solution P\", \"sorbed P\" , \"mineral P\" and \"organic P\" based on their association with various soil constituents (Fig. 1). It is important to note that this concept does not directly address the accessibility, extractability, and plant availability issues of P in soil. Products of all living things, including microbial tissues and plant leftovers, contain organic P. Fresh manure contains about two-third of its P in organic form. The usual share of organic P in soil ranges between 16 and 46% of total P. In India, this may range from 0% in the Rajasthani desert dunes to 92.8% in the Assamese fresh alluvial highlands. Inositol phosphate, phospholipids, and nucleic acids are the three major organic forms of P in soils. The vast majority of Pi ingested by living organisms is transformed into organic compounds via immobilization. Organic P is gradually converted to plant-useable inorganic phosphate via microbial mineralization when plant (and animal) waste is returned to the soil. \r\nDespite the fact that organic P may make up a sizeable portion of total soil P, Pi predominates in majority of the situations (54–84% of total P). The Pi pool in soil is comprised of \"Sorbed P\", \"Mineral P\" and \"Solution P.\" Phosphorus that has been electrostatically and covalently bound to the surfaces of iron(Fe)-and aluminium(Al)- oxyhydroxides, clay, and calcium carbonate is known as sorbed P. Strongly bound P that has been coated with Fe- or Al-oxyhydroxide layers to make their solubilization even more challenging is referred to as occluded or reductant soluble P. \r\nIn severely weathered acid red and lateritic soil, the occluded P may constitute as much as 50% of the total P. As the soil ages and weathering becomes more severe, the P-spectrum changes from being dominated by Ca-P to that by occluded-P. The term \"mineral P\" refers to discrete solid-phase P compounds with a range of surface area and structural arrangement (from crystalline to amorphous); these compounds, such as apatites, might be the result of pedologic processes or the reaction products of P fertilizers applied to the soil (e.g. di-calcium phosphate from superphosphates). The phosphate anions in soil solution can bind with cations such as Fe, Al and Ca to form mineral P. Al-P and Fe-P can make up anywhere between 1% and 25% (typically 8–10%) of the total P in soils. In neutral, calcareous and slightly alkaline soil, the Ca-P can make up 40–50% or even more of the total P. All the P pools maintain equilibrium with the soil\'s orthophosphate through the processes of sorption-desorption (for sorbed P), precipitation-dissolution (for mineral P), and mineralization-immobilization (for organic P). We shall concentrate on the inorganic pool in this review. Soil ‘solution-P’ serves as a central meeting point for all P pools and it regulates the instant supply of P to the plants. The soil solution, however, has a very low P content. In some severely weathered tropical soils, the concentration of phosphorus in the soil solution can be as low as 10-8 M (Johnston et al., 2014). If the top 30 cm of soil contains 6 cm of water (equivalent to 6 lakh L ha-1) and the concentration of P in the soil solution is 10-5 M, or 0.3 mg P L-1, then the solution pool of P will amount to only 0.2 kg P ha-1. Even in the best case scenario, its content hardly ever exceeds 0.5 kg P per ha of plough layer soil. Following the application of P-containing fertilizer to soil, the solution P pool rises for a brief period of time. Soluble P steadily changes over time into less soluble (and therefore less plant-available) forms. The concentration gradient of P between bulk-solution and root surface, the rate of P recharge to solution as it is uptaken, the volumetric soil moisture content, the interconnectivity of water films inside pores, and soil P buffering capacity are some of the factors that have an impact on the sustained supply of P (in the form of H2PO4- and, to a lesser extent, HPO4=) to the plants.\r\nThe organic and inorganic reserves of P associated with different soil solid phases replenish the phosphate ions depleted from the soil solution. Based on the ease of availability, these reserves are categorised as either \"Labile\" or \"Nonlabile\" While nonlabile P equilibrates slowly and refill the labile reserves gradually over time, labile P promptly equilibrates with the soil solution P and becomes available (Fig. 2). Irrespective of the mechanism by which P is retained in soil, soil Pi can be conceptualized to be in four pools on the basis of its accessibility, extractability and availability to plants (Syers et al., 2008; Johnston et al., 2014). Although P can be present in soil in both inorganic and organic forms, the former has received the majority of attention in study.\r\nINORGANIC PHOSPHORUS FRACTIONATION SCHEMES\r\nA variety of fractionation schemes and soil test procedures have been developed so far to understand the Pi status and its availability in soil. The fractionation procedures are based on the differential solubilities of various Pi forms against various extractants. The P fractions have been proven to be useful in understanding how applied P fertilizer transforms in soils and also in interpreting P-soil-test outcomes. Inorganic P can react with Ca, Al, or Fe in soil to yield discrete phosphate-minerals with meagre solubility such as hydroxyapatite [Ca10(PO4)6(OH)¬2], octacalcium phosphate [Ca8H2(PO4)6.5H2O], variscite (AlPO4.2H2O), and strengite (FePO4.2H2O) etc. Most P fractionation procedures involve the separation of \"loosely bound P\" using a salt solution (such as 1 M NH4Cl), followed by Fe- and Al-bound P using a mixture of alkali reagents (0.1 M NaOH, 0.5 M NaHCO3), and lastly Ca-bound P using acid (0.5 M HCl, 0.5 M H2SO4). Researchers have come up with a number of Pi fractionation techniques in the last sixty years to investigate the Pi transformation in soils and sediments of a variety of natural as well as man-made ecosystems. These cover specific techniques for determining only inorganic (Chang and Jackson 1957; Hieltjes and Lijklema 1980; Kuo, 1996), both organic and inorganic (Van Eck, 1982; Psenner, 1988; Ruttenberg, 1992; Golterman et al., 1997; Chen et al., 2000; Pardo et al., 2003; Tiessen and Moir 2008), and combinations of organic, inorganic and microbial forms of P (Hedley et al., 1982). The fractionation scheme developed by Chang and Jackson has been extensively used to investigate the forms of Pi and fate of added P fertilizers. Later, investigators realized that various extractants of this scheme were not as specific as originally thought. When Chang and Jackson’s (1957) method is employed to fractionate P in calcareous soils and sediments, retention of P by calcium fluoride (CaF2), which is generated from the reaction of calcium carbonate (CaCO3) and ammonium fluoride (NH4F), impacts result. Several researchers, later on, modified the procedure and enabled its usage with wide spectrum of soils. Kuo et al. (1996) described the most significant changes among them (Fig. 3).\r\nDespite criticism regarding the efficiency of Chang and Jackson’s extractants on pure compounds, very little attempt has been made to systematically explore the extraction-yield of P from common solid phases present in soil. This research gap has been created as because accurate separation of different solid phases from soil is unfeasible. Williams et al. (1980) employed a mixture of citric acid, dithionite and bicarbonate (CDB), at a relatively high pH, followed by NaOH and, HCl. The CDB was meant to extract Fe-P, leaving the organic P to be extracted by NaOH. The HCl was supposed to be specific for Ca-P. It wasn\'t recognised for quite a long time that NH4F and NaOH both promote the formation of hydroxyapatite. Not only does this apatite formation affects the outcomes undesirably, but the amount of P hydrolyzed by NaOH is also inconsistent. The amount of P brought into solution by NaOH is often influenced by the length of extraction period and the strength of NaOH, thus, it is difficult to assign a specific P fraction against this extractant. The concentration of extractable P either increases or decreases with duration. Re-adsorption onto CaCO3 is what causes the drop, whereas the hydrolysis of the recalcitrant organic P is what causes the increase.\r\nTherefore, the relative abundance of these compounds in soil affects the concentration of extracted P. Psenner (1988) employed a modified reducing agent, namely dithionite-bicarbonate (without citrate), in the first step. Unfortunately, this made the following steps questionable since the dithionite-bicarbonate removed only the P associated with Fe-compounds and not the ferric oxyhydroxide itself. The next step involving NaOH was supposed to extract organic P or non-reactive P, but the problem of the hydrolysis of organic P was not fully addressed. The subsequent steps involved extraction with HCl, succeeded by hot NaOH. The hot alkaline hydroxide extracted merely 10% of what was extracted by cold NaOH in the second step. It was unclear how much of the ferric oxyhydroxide was eliminated by the extractants, which could be an important lead for further investigation. The SEDEX extraction sequence was developed by Ruttenberg (1992) which had CDB as its first extractant, followed by acidic sodium acetate (at pH 4), and, finally, H2SO4. Golterman et al. (1997) discovered that EDTA removed more Ca-P than what was combinedly extracted by acidic sodium acetate and H2SO4 in Ruttenberg’s scheme. There are other fractionation techniques, such as the iron-oxide stripping method of House et al. (1995) which, as its drawback, requires multiple extractions. Huettl et al. (1979) added aluminium hydroxide to a cation exchange column to determine the quantity of adsorbed phosphate, and this was termed as Pad. While employing this step, it\'s important to be aware of a number of potential sources of errors, some of which include partial P recovery from the exchanger and incomplete P transfer to the exchanger. Jiang and Gu (1989) developed their fractionation scheme based on the capacity of NaHCO3, NH4F, NaOH, Na2CO3 and H2SO4 to extract CaHPO4.2H2O, Ca8H2(PO4)6, AlPO4.nH2O, FePO4.2H2O and Ca10(PO4)6F2, respectively. Solis and Torrent (1989) showed that CDB-extractable Fe was related to occluded P, and that the occluded P was associated with the crystal structure of Fe-P minerals. Even in calcareous soils, studies have revealed that the presence of even minute quantities of iron or aluminium oxides controls P behaviour (Samadi and Gilkes 1998). The sequential fractionation of soil P developed by Hedley et al. (1982) differentiated between bioavailable and unavailable forms of P within the P cycle. Hedley fractionation uses anion exchange to remove labile soil P from the soil solution. Subsequently, stronger reagents are used to extract additional forms of soil P that are more tightly attached to soil surfaces or are less biologically accessible. This fractionation is frequently used to assess how management has affected the soil P forms. This method extracts five fractions: resin-P, bicarbonate-P, NaOH-P, HCl-P, and H2SO4-H2O2 digest (residual) P. The forms of P that can be easily exchanged from soil particles include resin-P and bicarbonate-P. The NaOH-P is less available to plants because it is that P which is attached to or precipitated on hydrous oxides or clay edges. In P fractionation, residual P is the totally recalcitrant form of P which is believed to be in its most stable form. Due to its high resistance, residual P is removed from the soil using highly powerful chemicals like peroxide and mineral acids. This fraction consists of humified organic P and precipitated, crystalline Pi compounds (Hedley et al., 1982; Zhang et al., 2008).\r\nSOIL PROPERTIES AND MANAGEMENT PRACTICES AFFECTING PHOSPHORUS FRACTIONATION\r\nThe relative amount of soil-P fractions present in any soil are very much dependent on pH, degree of weathering, organic matter, cropping system and fertilizer practices. Chand and Tomar (1993) conducted an eight-week-long incubation experiment with twenty eight alkaline soils to study the effect of soil properties on apportionment of added as well as native soil P into different Pi fractions. In all the soils, proportion of saloid-P and Al-P dropped, while native Fe-P, Ca-P, and Olsen\'s-P increased with time. With rising CEC, active Fe, clay, and organic carbon content, the tendency of the added P to enrich the saloid-P fraction decreased logarithmically. More P entered into Ca-P fraction with rising pH and calcium carbonate content, whereas, the opposite was observed in case of Fe-P. One unit elevation in pH resulted in 9.3% increase in the recovery of added P as Olsen-P, while the same decreased to the tune of 15.6 and 0.6% with each per cent increase in organic carbon and clay content, respectively. The available P showed significant positive correlation with saloid-P but the same was not observed with Al-, Fe- or Ca-P. The cumulative contribution of all the P fractions to available P was 86% in the studied soils. Sharma and Tripathi (1992) studied the P fractions in the surface layers of some hilly acid soils collected from north-western part of India. The preponderance of reductant soluble P was most likely the cause behind low-land rice crops\' little response to applied P in this region. As revealed by the relative distribution of different fractions of P, majority of the soil samples (about 92%) were in an advanced stage of weathering, while remaining samples were only mildly worn. Only clay content had a discernible impact on the soil\'s overall and Fe-P contents. Amorphous and total Fe accounted for the largest variation in the Fe-P fractions, whereas total and extractable Al was significantly connected to the formation of Al-P. There was no association between forms of Ca and Ca-P fraction. The variation in extractable and amorphous Fe, on the other hand, accounted for the majority of the variation in reductant soluble P. Studies focused on the effect of long-term nutrient management and cropping pattern on inorganic soil P fractions reported increased amount of saloid-, Fe-, Al-, reductant soluble-, and available-P in the soils receiving NPK at recommended dose in comparison to the control. Nunes et al. (2020) studied the impact of long-term tillage and fertilizer management on the distribution of soil P fractions and observed that, as compared to conventional tillage, no-tillage led to higher Pi build-up in labile fractions, whereas, organic P was partitioned more inside protective aggregates. Also, there was an increase in the Ca-P fraction when reactive rock phosphate was used under no-tillage instead of triple super phosphate under conventional tillage. This increase in the Ca-P was more prevalent when the fertilizer was broadcast. Mahawar et al. (2022) showed that application of FYM @5 t ha-1 could significantly increase the proportional abundance of saloid-P fraction. It should be noted in this regard that saloid-P represents that fraction of P which is almost instantly accessible to plants.\r\nINORGANIC PHOSPHORUS FRACTIONS IN INDIAN SOILS\r\nThe relative proportion of P fractions is largely controlled by their solubility and reactivity in soils. Fe-P and Al-P are difficulty soluble compounds at low pH and so is Ca-P at high pH. However, P forms relatively more soluble compounds with Ca2+ and Mg2+ at near neutral pH. The principal active forms of Pi that contribute at different degrees in the available P pool are soluble or loosely bound P, Al-P, Fe-P, and Ca-P. The occluded and reductant-soluble versions of P are both less active. Although their proportions vary, all the fractions of P are generally found in every soil. Acid soils have more Al-P and Fe-P, whereas, neutral to alkaline soils have more Ca-P. Phosphorus is assumed to be associated to Na in sodic soils and it is extremely mobile. Except in lowland rice, the reductant soluble P fraction in soil, in general, is insoluble enough to be of any practical importance. Several scientists have made contribution to the identification of different fractions of Pi in Indian soils. As per Singh and Sharma’s (2007) report, saloid-P, Fe-P, Al-P, and Ca-P ranged from 1.5–4.2, 1.4–14.0, 12.8–29.8 and 17.8–328 mg kg-1 in soils collected from different agro-ecological zones of Punjab. In three major agricultural valleys of Himachal Pradesh, saloid-P, Fe-P, Al-P, and Ca-P fractions ranged from 0.2 to 22.5, 4.1 to 120.3, 0.3 to 89.4, and 14.8 to 400.4 mg kg-1, respectively (Jaggi, 1991). Because of differential P management approaches, the saloid-P and Fe-P did not show any obvious trend in these valleys. According to Patiram and Prasad (1990), Fe-P predominated among the various forms of P identified in the acid soils of Sikkim, being around 1.5 times more abundant than Ca-P or Al-P, whereas, Ca-P and Al-P differed little from one another in terms of abundance. Additionally, they stated that residual P had a negative correlation with other kinds of Pi but was substantially related to total and organic P. Laxminarayana (2007) investigated the distribution of saloid-, Al-, Fe-, and Ca-P in rice soils of Kolasib district, Mizoram, and found that those ranged from 3.25–9.03, 29.6–46.8, 18.2–33.7, and 22.4–39.4 mg kg-1, respectively, with the total P content ranging from 132.3–365.8 mg kg-1. The available P pool in the Kolasib rice-soil was largely made up of Al-P, Fe-P, and Ca-P fractions. Following are the P-fractions\' relative abundances in various soils: Al-P (19.6%) > Fe-P (15.8%) > Ca-P (12.0%) > Saloid-P (2.46%). According to Perumal and Velayutham\'s (1977) observation, Al-P and Fe-P made up 55% of the total P while Ca-P made up just 12% of the same in rice soils. However, unidentified residual P and saloid P accounted for the highest and lowest individual shares of total P, respectively. Reductant soluble P and Ca-P had similar abundance in those rice soils. The distribution of P in Indian Alfisols falling under the pH range of 5.5 to 6.8 was Fe-P > Ca-P > Al-P (Sahrawat, 1977). Doddamani and Seshagiri Rao (1989) investigated different forms of P in soils of Karnataka and found that Ca-P constituted the dominant share of total P in Vertisols (upto 19.5%) and Inceptisols (upto 11.5%). Fe-P constituted 14.2, 9.1, 2.5, and 2.4% of total P in Oxisols, Alfisols, Vertisols and Inceptisols of Karnataka, respectively. Highest amount of reductant-soluble P was found in Oxisols followed by Alfisols, Vertisols and Inceptisols. Occluded and saloid P accounted for 2.9–3.0 and 0.5–0.6%, respectively, of the total P in the soils of Karnataka. Viswanatha and Doddamani (1991) also found Ca-P to be the dominant fraction of P in alkaline Vertisols of Karnataka. According to Rao and Krishnamurthy (2007), the distribution of Pi fractions, such as saloid-, Al-, Fe-, and Ca-P in the soils of Andhra Pradesh\'s Khamman district ranged from 13.5–78.4, 45.0–499, 6.2–47.9, and 6.9–438.2 mg kg-1, respectively. In the rice soils of West Bengal, Al-P, Fe-P, Ca-P, reductant soluble P and occluded P fractions made up approximately 7.2, 27.8, 46.6, 16.2, and 2.2% of the total inorganically bound P, respectively (Mandal, 1975). Debnath and Mandal (1982) also found Ca-P to be the dominant fraction of P in West Bengal soils. They reported the respective ranges of Ca-P, Al-P and Fe-P as 41.4–328.4, 21.4–120.4 and 57.1–142.8 and mg kg-1. Adhikari and Si (1994), however, observed that Fe-P is the leading fraction of Pi in the acidic soils of West Bengal. In their study, saloid-P, Al-P, Ca-P, Fe-P and total P varied from 5.4–15.0, 11.2–18.0, 9.5–31.0, 32.5–41.8 and 122.9–190.1 mg kg-1, respectively. Dutta and Mukhopadhyay (2007) worked with acid (pH 4.21–5.67) soils of north Bengal having moderate to high organic carbon content and their findings revealed that Al-P was the chief form of Pi in those soils, followed by Fe-P. In some coastal soils of West Bengal the major extractable Pi fractions followed the order of Ca-P > Al-P > Fe-P. Lungmuana et al. (2012) studied the distribution of P in the rice-growing red and laterite soils of West Bengal and reported that the average contribution of different Pi fractions towards total P was in the order of Fe-P (18.5%) > Al-P (7.9%) > Ca-P (5.8%) > saloid-P (0.8%). \r\n','Anwesha Das, Arkaprava Roy, Dolgobinda Pal and Animesh Chowdhury (2022). Pools and Fractions of Inorganic Phosphorus in Indian Soil and Evolution of its Fractionation Schemes: A Mini Review. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 14(3): 888-895.'),(5386,'136','Morphological characterization of Quantitative Traits and Estimation of Dormancy Period in Promising Rice Varieties (Oryza sativa L.) of Telangana State','J.S. Vijaylaxmi, Y. Bharathi, K. Prabhavathi, Razia Sultana and L. Krishna','152 Morphological characterization of Quantitative Traits and Estimation of Dormancy Period in Promising Rice Varieties (Oryza sativa L.) of Telangana State Bharathi Y.pdf','',1,'Among the 15 rice varieties studied, variations were observed for the quantitative morphological characters viz., leaf length, stem thickness, stem length, panicle length of main axis, panicle number plant-1, 1000 grain weight, grain length, grain width, decorticated grain length, decorticated grain width, time of heading and maturity. No variations were observed for the characters endosperm amylose content and leaf width. Long leaf blade length is recorded in the variety WGL 915. Medium stem thickness is observed in JGL 18047 and KNM 1638. The length of the main axis of the panicle in the variety WGL 962 is categorized as short while long in RNR 15435 and WGL 915. The varieties JGL 18047, KNM 1638, KNM 733, KNM 118, Tellahamsa and RNR 21278 are categorized as early for days to heading. Even though for endosperm amylose content all the varieties fallen under medium category, the variety WGL 739 is recorded highest amylose content (24.5%) whereas, the variety KNM 118 is recorded the lowest amylose content (20.7%). For the dormancy studies in 15 rice varieties, no dormancy was recorded in Tellahamsa whereas; RNR-11718 exhibited the longest period of dormancy (45 days). The remaining rice varieties exhibited dormancy period from 19 days to 45 days. The highest % of fresh seed germination was recorded in WGL-962 (96.0%) followed by RNR-15048 (95.0%) while the lowest was recorded in RNR-15435 (85.3%). RNR-29325 has recorded the highest initial seedling vigor index-I (2516) while KNM 118 has recorded the lowest (1843). JGL-24423 recorded maximum initial seedling vigour index-II (9312) followed by Tellahamsa (8619) and JGL-18047(8363). Among the rice varieties studied JGL-24423 has recorded good seedling vigour index-I and II.','Rice, dormancy, germination, vigour index','From the present study we can conclude that, among the varieties studied for fourteen quantitative morphological characters variation is found among the fifteen rice varieties for 13 quantitative characters .No variations were observed for Endosperm amylose content and leaf width. No dormancy was recorded in the variety Tellahamsa and in the remaining varieties varies it ranged from from 19 days to 45days. The highest fresh seed germination % was recorded in the variety WGL-962 (96.0%) and lowest in RNR-15435 (85.3%). The variety RNR-29325 has recorded the highest fresh seedling vigor index-I (2516) and the variety KNM 118 has recorded the lowest seedling vigour index-I (1834). The variety JGL-24423 recorded maximum fresh seedling vigour index-II (9312). Among the varieties studied the variety JGL- 24423 has recorded good seedling vigour index-I and II which indicating the good initial plant establishment and good seed longevity for this variety.','INTRODUCTION\r\nIn India, rice is cultivated in an area of 43.66 million ha with a productivity of 2722 kg ha-1. India ranks first in the area and second in production after China (India Stat, 2019-2020) and in newly formed Telangana state rice is cultivated in an area of 32.15 lakh hectares with the production and productivity of 19.361 million tones and 6093kg ha-1respectively (Directorate of Economics and statistics, Hyderabad, 2020). The quantum jump in area, production and productivity was possible due to the release and adoption of short duration varieties in the state since 2014 as compared to 14.15 lakh hectares, 7.121 million tones, 5093 kg ha-1, area, production, productivity respectively during 2014-2015 (Directorate of Economics and statistics, Hyderabad, 2020). Professor Jayashankar Telangana State Agricultural University (PJTSAU) has recently released a good number of promising and outstanding paddy varieties which were very popular among the farmers. The Telangana State is also endowed with excellent agro-climatic conditions, irrigation facilities that were suitable for paddy seed production in both kharif and rabi seasons. \r\nVarietal characterization is an important criterion for registration of newly developed varieties as it ensures varietal identification by the plant breeders and ultimate consumers and further helps in maintaining genetic purity and identity of variety during various stages of seed production. The aspect of Distinctness, Uniformity and Stability (DUS) is fundamental for characterization of varieties. Accurate identification of varieties is not only a pre requisite for DUS testing, but is critical for the production of quality seed also. The present day rice varieties in different categories either in short, medium and long slender group have similar grain types which are very difficult to distinguish either by using morphological traits of the plant or by using seed characters or even they may not be separated during the seed processing also. Use of same mechanical harvester for different varieties is also one of the major factors for varietal admixtures. Due to shortage in the production of nucleus seed of most popular varieties under contingent conditions the breeder seed is used for production of breeder seed in the multiplication chain which might be one of the reasons for varietal deterioration also. \r\nWhile grow out test is preferred for hybrids, now a days it is also advisable to conduct for varieties as there are many issues related to quality particularly in varieties with similar grain types. The use of morphological differences between varieties and identification of off types is always apparent and cannot be recognized easily as the varieties look phenotypically similar. We have characterized using all the DUS characters for the rice varieties under study. In this paper we are discussing the quantitative morphological characters along with their dormancy periods.\r\nThe seed dormancy can be defined as the state or a condition in which seeds are prevented from germinating even under the favorable environmental conditions for germination. During seed maturation primary dormancy is induced (Graeber et al. 2012; Holdsworth et al. 2008; Hong et al. 2015). Almost all cereal seeds are having fresh seed dormancy immediately after harvest and the seeds will not germinate if we want to use them for sowing immediately for next season. Seed dormancy is a boon in agriculture as it prevents the seeds from sprouting in the field, if wet weather prevails during the time of harvest, thereby retains seed quality by avoiding pre harvest sprouting (Sugimoto et al., 2010; Nonogaki et al., 2014; Ashkawa et al., 2014). It can be a bane when it is necessary to sow successive generations immediately after harvest. Hence the present investigation aimed to identify fresh seed dormancy period of paddy varieties developed from Professor Jayashankar Telangana State Agricultural University (PJTSAU). \r\nSeveral factors associated with dormancy in rice and Mikkelsen (1967) reported that dormancy in rice is not true embryo dormancy, since embryos excised from dormant seed germinate freely. Seshu and Sorrells (1986) investigated, how to impose dormancy in rice and found that the hull and the pericarp act independently and hull-imposed dormancy in rice is more prolonged than pericarp-imposed dormancy. Roberts (1961) reported impermeability of the hull and the pericarp concerned with the non-availability of oxygen to the embryo or high peroxidase activity (Navasero et al., 1975). Takahashi, (1967) figured out, the occurrence of growth inhibitors such as ABA (Gu et al., 2011; Baskin and Baskin 2004) and phenols in the covering structures responsible for seed dormancy in rice, (Hartman et al. 2011) or might be due to short-chain saturated fatty acids (SCSFAs) (Majumder et al., 1989). The present investigation on morphological characterization of quantitative traits and estimation of dormancy period in 15 rice varieties were carried out. \r\nMETHODOLOGY\r\nThe present investigation was carried out during Kharif, 2020 using fifteen elite rice varieties. The breeder seed of 15 rice varieties was obtained from different Rice Research Stations viz., Regional Agricultural Research Station, Jagtial (JGL-24423, JGL-18047), Regional Agricultural Research Station, Warangal (WGL-44, WGL-915, WGL-739, WGL-962), Agricultural Research Station, Kunaram (KNM-733, KNM-118, KNM-1638) and Rice Research Centre, Rajendranagar (RNR-11718, RNR-21278, RNR-15435, RNR-15048, RNR-29325 and Tellahamsa) of Professor Jayashankar Telangana State Agricultural University. The nursery was sown during the last fortnight of June and transplanted during the last week of July, 2020 in Randomized Block Design with three replications at seed production area of Seed Research and Technology Centre, Rajendranagar, Hyderabad. Each variety was transplanted in twenty rows of 6m length with the Plot size of 30m2. All the recommended agronomic practices were followed for crop cultivation and need based crop protection measures were adopted. The data collection on morphological characteristics was initiated from the seedling stage itself. Five plants were randomly selected for each variety in each of the three replications. The data on morphological characters were recorded at different crop growth stages as per the DUS (Distinctness, Uniformity, and Stability) characteristics. The crop was harvested manually in the month of November, 2020 the seed was threshed and dried to the safe moisture limits. From the 3rdday of the harvest, the seeds of all the fifteen varieties were subjected to germination test for every alternate day till the seed reaches above ninety percent germination for finding the dormancy period.\r\nProcedure for analysis of amylose content of endosperm: The simplified procedure of Juliano (1971) is used for the amylose content analysis. Twenty wholegrain milled rice is ground. 100 mg of rice powder is put into a 100 ml volumetric flask and 1 ml of 95% ethanol and 9 ml of 1N Sodium hydroxide are added. The contents are heated on a boiling water bath to gelatinize the starch. After cooling for one hour, distilled water is added and contents are mixed well. For each set of samples run, low, intermediate and high amylose standard varieties are included to serve as checks. 5 ml of the starch solution is put in a 100 ml volumetric flask with a pipette. 1 ml of 1 N acetic acid, 2 ml of iodine solution (0.2 g iodine and 2.0 g potassium iodide in 100 ml of aqueous solution) is added and volume is made up with distilled water. Contents are shaken well and let stand for 20 minutes. Absorbance of the solution is measured at 620 nm with a spectrophotometer. Amylose content is determined by using a conversion factor and the results are expressed on a dry weight basis. \r\nStandard germination test: The germination test was conducted in laboratory using between paper methods (ISTA, 2019). One hundred seeds in each of four replications were placed on germination paper towels, which were then rolled. The rolled towels were kept in walk in seed germination chamber maintained at 25 ± 1ºC with 90 percent relative humidity. The seedlings were evaluated on the 14th day, and the percent of germination was expressed based on normal seedlings, evaluation was conducted according to He et al. (2019). In order to study the seed dormancy period, freshly harvested seeds were kept for germination at an interval of every 2 days subsequently till it reaches standard germination percentage.\r\nSeedling Vigour Index (SVI): Ten seedlings from each replication were selected at random on the 14th day after germination and seedling length was measured. The same seedlings were dried at 80± 1ºC for 24 hours and dry weight was recorded. The mean seedling length and seedling dry weight were used for estimation of seedling vigour index-I (SVI-I) and Seedling vigour index-II (SVI-II) in two different methods using the following formula given by (Abdul Baki and Anderson, 1973).\r\nSVI –I = Mean seedling length (cm) × Germination (%)\r\nSVI-II = Mean seedling dry weight (mg) × Germination (%)\r\nStatistical analysis: For measurable characters the data generated is subjected to analysis of variance by adopting standard procedures given by Panse and Sukhatme (1969).\r\nRESULTS AND DISCUSSION\r\nMorphological observations on quantitative traits \r\nThe morphological characters pertaining to quantitative characters (as per DUS guidelines) were recorded for fifteen rice varieties are furnished in Table 1. For the character length of leaf blade, the varieties WGL 915 (58.10 cm) and KNM 1638 (45.60 cm) are recorded long leaf length and medium leaf length is recorded in rest of the thirteen rice varieties. The length of leaf blade ranged from 36.01cm in KNM 118 to 58.10 cm in WGL 915 (Table 1 & Fig 1a). \r\n\r\nFor the character width of the leaf blade all the rice varieties studied are categorized under the medium leaf width ranged from 1.22 cm in KNM 733 to 1.96 cm in WGL 915. The days to heading varied among the varieties under study. The varieties JGL 18047, KNM 1638, KNM 733, KNM 118, Tellahamsa, RNR 21278 are early with the duration ranging from 71 to 90 days. The varieties JGL 24423, WGL 739, WGL 962, WGL 44, RNR 29325, RNR 15048, RNR 15435 are medium with duration ranging from 92 to 105 days and the varieties RNR 11718, WGL 915 are observed as late with 110 days duration (Table 1). Singh et al. (2015) reported the variations in time of heading among the rice varieties and the present results are in conformity with them.\r\nMedium stem thickness is observed in rice varieties JGL 18047 and KNM 1638 whereas; remaining thirteen rice varieties are categorized under thick stem. For the character stem length the variety WGL 915 has categorized under short whereas, remaining fourteen rice varieties are categorized under very short stem length (Table 1). With respect to the length of the main axis of the panicle the rice variety WGL 962 is categorized as short, RNR 15435 and WGL 915 as long and remaining twelve rice varieties are categorized under medium (Table 1). Except RNR 15435 (29.3cm) and WGL 915 (30cm) which are categorized as long the remaining thirteen rice varieties were categorized as medium because the length of panicle main axis does not cross above 25cm. The present study results are in line with the findings of Borah et al. (2016), where they reported that 75.66% rice varieties studied were having medium panicle length. Sharma et al. (2004) observed similar results in rice genotypes and discovered that only eight genotypes had panicle lengths greater than 25 cm while the rest genotypes had panicle lengths less than 25 cm and the present study is also in conformity with them. \r\nThe rice varieties WGL 739, RNR 15048 and RNR 11718 has few number of panicles per plant whereas, the remaining twelve rice varieties are categorized under medium number of panicles per plant (Table 1). Based on number of days taken for maturity the varieties JGL18047, KNM733, KNM 118, KNM1638 and Tellahamsa are grouped under early maturity. The days to maturity is ranged from 110 days to 120 days in this early group; the varieties JGL 24423, RNR 21278 and RNR15048 are fall under medium maturity group (125 to 138 days) and the varieties WGL739, WGL 44, WGL 915, WGL 962, RNR 29325, RNR11718, RNR15435 are categorized under late maturity group (138 to 148 days) (Table. 1) similar results are also reported by Ghosh et al. (2019); Borah et al. (2016). Bishnoi et al. (2021). The test weight of 1000 fully matured grains ranged from 14.41g in WGL 962 to 27.47g in JGL 24423. \r\nThe varieties WGL 962, WGL 915, RNR 21278 are categorized under very low test weight group (14.41 g to 14.80 g); the varieties KNM 1638, KNM 733, KNM 118, WGL 44 are classified under low test weight group (15.44 g to 16.85 g); the varieties WGL 739, Tellahamsa, RNR 29325, RNR11718, RNR15435 are categorized under medium test weight group (21.42g to 21.95g) and the highest test weight is recorded in JGL 18047& JGL 24423 (Table 1).The grain length ranged from 7.46 mm in WGL 962 to 11.64 mm in RNR 15435. The varieties KNM 1638, WGL 44, WGL 962, WGL 915, RNR 11718, RNR 21278 and RNR 15048 are recorded short grain length and the grain length ranged from 7.67 mm to 8.42 mm. The variety RNR-15435 is recorded long grain length. The varieties JGL 18047, JGL 24423, KNM 733, KNM 118, WGL739, Tellahamsa recorded medium grain length (8.75 to 9.69 mm) (Table 1 & Fig.1a). The grain width of fifteen rice varieties is studied and it ranged from 1.56 mm in RNR-15048 to 2.47 mm in JGL-24423. The grain width was very narrow in the rice varieties JGL 18047, KNM 1638, KNM 733, KNM 118, WGL 739, WGL 44, WGL 962, WGL 915 RNR 15435, Tellahamsa, RNR 29325, RNR 21278 and RNR 15048 (1.56 to 2.00 mm) and in the varieties JGL 24423, RNR 11718 narrow grain width is recorded (Table 1&2).\r\nDecorticated grain length for all the fifteen rice varieties studied is ranged from 5.12 mm in RNR 21278 to 8.4 mm in RNR-15435. The rice varieties RNR 21278, WGL 44, WGL 962, KNM 1638 are classified as short (5.12 to 5.18mm); the varieties KNM 733, KNM 118, WGL 915, RNR 11718, RNR-15048 are classified under medium (5.43 to 5.83mm); the varieties JGL 18047, JGL24423, WGL 739, Tellahamsa, RNR 29325 are categorized under long (6.30 to 6.90 mm) and RNR-15435 is categorized under very long. Decorticated grain width of all the varieties is categorized under narrow and the grain width ranged from 1.31 mm in WGL 915 to 1.96 mm in RNR 11718 (Table 1 & 2). Physical measurements of length, width, as well as 1000 grain weight are used in the laboratory to quantify these features. Earlier reports by Sinha and Mishra (2012); Tirkey et al. (2013); Semwal et al. (2014) revealed that 1000 grain weight was used to characterize rice varieties. Bai et al. (2010); Mao et al. (2010) reported that the seed size is also an essential agronomic feature to consider when assessing the yield potential and to distinguish rice varieties. Amylose content in the endosperm is estimated for fifteen rice varieties and all the varieties were fall under medium category ranging from 20.7% to 24.5%. The variety WGL 739 has recorded highest amylose content (24.5%) whereas, the variety KNM 118 has recorded the lowest amylose content (20.7%) (Table 1 & Fig. 1b). Rice with high amylose content (25-30%) tends to cook firm and dry, whereas rice with intermediate amylose content (20-25%) is generally soft and sticky whereas with low amylose content (<20%) cooks soft and sticky. Kapoor et al. (2019) studied endosperm amylose content in fifty rice cultivars out of which thirty six cultivars were having medium amylose content, thirteen having low and one cultivar has high amylose content. Verma et al. (2015) observed variation for endosperm amylose content from 2.0 to 24.5% in rice cultivars which were grouped under low to medium category. These results suggested that the plant morphological traits exhibited dissimilarities among the rice varieties studied and these morphological characters can be used for distinguishing the varieties from each other.\r\nThe mean, range, standard deviation and coefficient of variation for the fourteen quantitative characters among 15 rice varieties are given in Table 2. The mean data recorded on various quantitative morphological characters viz., length of leaf blade (cm), width of leaf blade (cm), stem thickness (cm), stem length (cm), panicle length of main axis (cm), panicle number per plant, time of heading (days), maturity (days), 1000 grain weight (g), grain length (mm), grain width (mm), decorticated grain length (mm), decorticated grain width (mm), amylose content of endosperm (%). These characters are subjected to statistical analysis of variance which indicated that there is significant difference among all the characters at the 0.001 probability levels except for the character stem length which recorded significant difference at 0.01 probability level. The mean sum of squares for all the above mentioned characters is presented in Table 3. \r\nStudies on estimation of dormancy period. The results of dormancy breaking studies conducted in sixteen varieties were presented in Table 2. Among the varieties studied from Rajendranagar station, the variety Tellahamsa exhibited 90% germination immediately after harvest whereas, RNR-11718 has taken the longest duration to break dormancy i.e., 45 days after harvest to exhibit 90% germination. Immediately after harvest the varieties RNR-21278, RNR-15435 and RNR-15048 showed very low germination %, i.e., 20%, 16%, 29% respectively. And both RNR-21278 and RNR-15435 were taken 35 days to break dormancy after harvest. Whereas, the varieties RNR-15048 and RNR-29325 have taken 31days and 27 days respectively to break dormancy after harvest (Table 4). The two varieties from Jagtial station took approximately one month to completely break their dormancy. The variety JGL-24423 has registered a higher germination percentage at 27 days after harvest followed by the variety JGL-18047 which has taken 34 days for breaking its dormancy (Table 4 and Fig 2). The cultivars from Kunaram station, KNM-1638 and KNM-118 exhibited a relatively lower dormancy period compared to KNM-733. KNM-1638 has taken only 19 days to break its dormancy completely. Whereas KNM-118 has taken 27 days and KNM-733 has taken 38 days to completely break its dormancy (Table 4). Among the varieties obtained from Warangal station varieties, WGL-44 and WGL-962 showed lower dormancy periods i.e., 26 days and 28 days respectively, compared to other varieties of the station.\r\nThe variety WGL-739 has taken 33 days to break its dormancy after harvest followed by WGL-915 which has taken 30 days after harvest (Table 4). The dormancy periods among the varieties obtained from different research stations differ significantly and the results were in accordance with (Shanmugasundaram, 1953; Ghose et al., 1956). Except for the variety, Tellahamsa rest of the varieties studied were showing the dormancy period varies from 19 days to 45 days which indicates these varieties will not have any problem regarding in situ germination. And the physical or mechanical means of dormancy breaking methods need to apply if one wishes to go for immediate sowings for the next season. \r\nGermination % and Seedling vigour. After studying the dormancy period among the varieties the germination % and seedling vigour were studied. The germination % was recorded highest in the variety WGL-962 (96.0%) followed by RNR-15048 (95.0%) which were taken 28 and 31 days for breaking their dormancy respectively. The lowest germination percentage was recorded in the variety RNR-15435 (85%) which has taken 35 days for breaking the dormancy (Table 5 & Fig. 2). The fifteen entries were studied for their seedling vigour both for vigour index-I and II. The variety RNR-29325 has recorded the highest seedling vigour index-I (2516) followed by the variety JGL-24423 (2411) which were showed the germination % of 93% and 89% respectively. Chaturvedi et al. (2012) reported Speed of germination provides good reflection of seed vigor, similar results were obtained in the present study. The variety KNM 118 has recorded the lowest seedling vigour index-I (1834) with 90% germination (Table. 5 & Fig. 2). In case of seedling vigour index-II the variety JGL-24423 recorded maximum seedling vigour index-II (9312) followed by Tellahamsa (8619) and JGL-18047 (8363). Among the varieties studied the variety JGL-24423 has recorded good seedling vigour index-I and II which indicating the good initial plant establishment and good storability characters for this variety (Table 5 & Fig. 2). \r\n \r\n','J.S. Vijaylaxmi, Y. Bharathi, K. Prabhavathi, Razia Sultana and L. Krishna (2022). Morphological characterization of Quantitative Traits and Estimation of Dormancy Period in Promising Rice Varieties (Oryza sativa L.) of Telangana State. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 14(3): 896-905.'),(5387,'136','Effect of different Training System on Growth of Pear (Pyrus communis L.)','Imran Ali, Satya Prakash, Arvind Kumar, S.K. Tripathi, R.S. Sengar, Jitender Singh and Upendra Maurya','153 Effect of different Training System on Growth of Pear (Pyrus communis L.) Imran Ali.pdf','',1,'Pear (Pyrus communis L.) is an important temperate fruit crop after apple belonging to the family Rosaceae. An experiment was conducted to determine the effect of plant training system on growth of Pear (Pyrus communis L.) during the year 2020-2021 with the varieties (V1-Baggugosha, V2-Punjab Beauty and V3-Punjab Gold) and Training systems (T1-Y-trellis, T2-Cordon, T3-Espalier and T4-Control) at the Horticulture Research centre of Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel University of Agriculture and Technology, Meerut (U.P.). The experiment was laid out in Factorial Randomized Block Design (FRBD) with four replications. The maximum tree height (4.08 m) was observed in control with variety Baggugosha, while the minimum tree height was observed in trellis system with variety Pubjab Gold. The maximum canopy volume (7.04 m3) was observed in Espalier system with variety Punjab beauty. The maximum number of shoots per tree (103.95), shoot diameter (13.27 cm) and number of flower per tree (277.05) were observed in Espalier system with variety Baggugosha. Whereas, the minimum values for the above parameters were recorded in control with variety Punjab Gold.','Growth, Pear, Training system and Varieties','On the basis of results summarized above, it can be concluded that there was a significant effect of training system on growth of Pear in terms of tree height (m), canopy volume (m3), number of shoots per tree, shoots diameter (mm) and number flowers per tree. The maximum tree height was observed in control with variety Baggugosha. While, the minimum tree height was observed in trellis with variety Punjab Gold. The maximum canopy volume was observed in Espalier system with variety Punjab beauty. The best results were observed for number of shoots per tree, shoot diameter and number of flower per treein Espalier system with variety Baggugosha. Whereas, the minimum values for the above parameters were recorded in control with variety Punjab Gold. Therefore, Espalier training system with variety Baggugosha and their combination may be suggested for getting higher yield in Pear under western Uttar Pradesh Conditions.','INTRODUCTION\r\nPear (Pyrus communis L.) is one of the most important temperate fruit crop after apple in the family Rosaceae. It is diploid with chromosome number of 2n=2X=34 and belongs to the sub-family Pomoideae. The most important species of Pear are Pyrus communis L. (European pear), Pyrus pyrifolia L. (Asian/Japanese pear), Pyrus nivalis L. and Pyrus calleryana L. Pear is originated from China. Pyrus species are scattered over a large area in countries ranging from north to north west, west and south-Central regions (Sharifani et al., 2008). It is next only to apple in importance, production and vertical diversity among the temperate fruit. Pear is a mild sweet fruit with fibrous centre. It is rich in essential antioxidants plant compounds and dietary fibre.The improved pear cultivars in India were introduced in the later part of the 19th century. In India, pear occupies the second place among temperate fruits both in area and production. In India, Pear is grown on 44 thousand hectares area with a production of 318 Metric tons fruits annually (Anonymous, 2018).\r\nPear is among few fruit crops, which is adaptable to a wide range of agro-climatic condition. Pears can be cultivated in a climate ranging from very cold temperature to humid subtropical and can tolerant temperature as low as -26ºC temperature during dormancy and as high as 45ºC during growing period. Best temperature for its flowering and fruiting is 2ºC in winter and 32ºC in summers. Annual rainfall 100-125 cm is adequate for its growth. Summers should be less humid. Fruits make good growth if sufficient rains are there at maturity stage. Most of the European cultivars need sufficient cold requirement of 1,000-1500 chilling hours (Sharma and Krishna 2017).\r\nHowever, in other Pear cultivars, it may vary significantly under varied climatic conditions. Hard pear is widely adapted to soil and agro-climatic conditions of India. Low chilling varieties of hard pear require 200-300 chilling hours under Punjab conditions contrasting to 900-1000 chilling hour required by high chilling varieties grown in states of higher altitudes. The fruit of Pear is mostly used for table purpose. It is the rich source of nutrients like Protein (0.4 gm/100 gm), Carbohydrate (15 gm/100gm), Fat (0.1 gm/100 gm), Dietary fibres (3.1 gm/100 gm), Potassium (116 mg/100gm), Sodium (1 mg/100gm), Iron (1%), Magnesium (1%) and Vitamin C (7%). It reduces the risk of cardiovascular disease, promotes gut health and anti-cancer effects etc. (USDA National Nutrient Data Base).\r\nPear fruits are recommended for the patients suffering from diabetes because of low sucrose content, helps in lowering blood pressure and regulate heart pulse. It contains a 3.1 gm dietary fibre which is very good for gut health. It is a good source of antioxidants and about 27 to 41 mg phenolics are found per 100 mg of fruit. Pear has also proved to be a vasodilator and anti-arrhythmic properties of its elements generally lowers the blood pressure and regulates the heart pulse. Folic acid is available in the fruits and forms the complex of vitamin B. It contains a glycoside called arbutin which could be used to treat urinary tract infections. It helps in the expulsion of uric acid from the body. The leaves of pear help in the treatment of sores and swelling. They also help in the treatment of fever, anaemia and general debility. Bark of pear trees may be used as a destion. It is commonly processed into drinks (like RTS, squashes), candies, preserved fruits, and jam (Reiland and Slavin 2015).\r\nTraining is started from nursery stage of plant. Training means developing a desired shape of the tree with particular objectives by controlling habit of growth. The main goal of tree training is to promote favourable growth patterns, whereas training is used to bring trees into production earlier, develop a strong structural frame work that will support heavy crop loads without breaking, promote good sun light penetration through the canopy, and make the trees easier to manage (Hassan et al., 2010). \r\nTraining helps to establish a strong framework of scaffold limbs capable of supporting regular annual succession of crops, expose maximum leaf surface to the sun, direct the growth of trees so that various cultural operation like spraying and harvesting become economical, protect the tree from sunburn and promote early production (Kaiths et al., 2011). \r\nIn Pear training system is appropriate choice for high density planting in Pear cultivars rather than use of dwarfing root stock or cultivars. Various training systems like Open vase, Espalier, Cordon, Palmette, Fuestoo, Free spindle and Y-Trellis are uses in Pear for quality production of fruits.\r\nMATERIALS AND METHODS\r\nThe experiment was conducted at Horticulture Research Center of Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel University of Agriculture and Technology, Modipuram, Meerut, Uttar Pradesh during the year 2020-2021. The experimental materials consist of 48 Pear trees and the Experiment was conducted with different training system and varieties. The experiment was laid out in Factorial Randomized Block Design (FRBD) consisting of 12 treatments and four replications.\r\nTreatment details\r\n Factor A: Variety, \r\nV1= Baggugosha, V2= Punjab Beauty, V3= Punjab Gold\r\nFactor B: Training System, \r\nT1= Y-trellis, T2= Cordon, T3= Espalier, T4= Control\r\nTreatment combinations\r\nT1=V1T1T5=V2T1T9=V3T1\r\nT2=V1T2 T6=V2T2T10=V3T2\r\nT3=V1T3T7=V2T3T11=V3T3\r\nT4=V1T4T8=V2T4T12=V3T4\r\nRESULTS AND DISCUSSION\r\nIn present investigation, a significant difference has been observed in terms of growth parameters among all the treatments as compare to control and presented in Table 1.\r\nTree height (m). The maximum tree height (3.26 m) was observed with variety V1 (Baggugosha) which was found significantly superior over the treatments and the average minimum plant height (2.60 m) was recorded with variety V3 (Punjab Gold). Training system had non-significant impact on tree height. The average maximum tree height (3.20) was found without training system (Control), whereas the average minimum value (2.39 m) was found to be lower with T1 (Trellis).The interaction impact of training system and variety for tree height was found non- significant. The average maximum tree height (4.08 m) was observed with control (V1T4). While, the minimum tree height (2.04 m) was recorded with trellis (V3T1). Similar results were also reported by Singh et al. (2012); Cean and Stanica (2013); Choi et al. (2014); Bhat and Dhillon (2015); Walsh et al. (2015); Sharma, Y. (2016).\r\n Canopy Volume (m3) \r\nThe maximum canopy volume (4.53 m3) was observed with variety V1 (Baggugosha), which was found significantly superior over the treatments and the average minimum (4.19 m3) was recorded with variety V3 (Punjab Gold). Training system has the significant impact on canopy volume. The average maximum canopy volume (6.09 m3) was found to be significantly higher with T3 (Espalier). Whereas, the average minimum (3.13 m3) was found to be lower with T4 (Control).The interaction impact of training system and variety for canopy volume was found significant. The average maximum canopy volume (7.04 m3) was found to be significantly higher with Espalier (V2T3). However, the average minimum canopy volume (2.77 m3) was recorded with Control (V3T4). Similar findings have been reported by Bianco et al. (2007); Kiprijanovski et al. (2009); Gill et al. (2011); Lukic et al. (2012); Rufato et al. (2014).\r\nNumber of shoots per tree. The maximum number of shoots per tree (96.55) was recorded with variety V1 (Baggugosha) which was found significantly superior over the treatments and the average minimum (84.99) was recorded with variety V3 (Punjab Gold). Training system has the significant impact on number of shoots per tree. The average maximum number of shoots per tree (98.21) was found to be significantly higher with T3 (Espalier). Whereas, the average minimum (80.99) was found to be lower with T4 (Control).The interaction impact of training system and variety for number of shoots per tree was found significant. The average maximum number of shoots per tree (103.95) was found to be significantly higher with Espalier (V1T3). While, the average minimum number of shoots per tree (71.50) was recorded with Control (V3T4).The above findings are in agreement with the findings of Sharma and Kaur (2006); MA et al. (2012); Cean and Stanica (2013).\r\nShoot Diameter (mm). The maximum Shoot diameter (11.44 mm) was recorded with variety V1 (Baggugosha) which was found significantly superior over the treatments and the average minimum (10.98 mm) was recorded with variety V3 (Punjab Gold).Training system has the significant impact on shoot diameter. The average maximum shoot diameter (12.36 mm) was found to be significantly higher with T3 (Espalier). However, the average minimum (10.67 mm) was found to be lower with T4 (Control).\r\nThe interaction impact of training system and variety for shoot diameter was found significant. The average maximum shoot diameter (13.27 mm) was found to be significantly higher with Espalier (V1T3). Moreover, the average minimum Stem Diameter (10.19) was recorded with Cordon (V3T2).Similar finding has been also reported by Rathi et al. (2003); Demirtas et al. (2010); Ikinci et al. (2014); Choi et al. (2014); Nasar et al. (2015).\r\nNumber of flowers per tree. The maximum number of flowers per tree (235.35) was recorded with variety V1 (Baggugosha) which was found significantly superior over the treatments and the average minimum (221.98) was recorded with variety V3 (Punjab Gold). Training system has the significant impact on number of flowers per tree. The average maximum number of flowers per tree (246.08) was found to be significantly higher with T3 (Espalier). However, the average minimum (219.44) was found to be lower with T4 (Control). The interaction impact of training system and variety for number of flowers per tree was found significant. The average maximum number of flowers per tree (277.05) was found to be significantly higher with Espalier (V1T3). Moreover, the average minimum number of flowers per tree (200.56) was recorded with Control (V3T4). Similar findings have been reported by Khattab et al. (2003); Lawande et al. (2014).\r\n','Imran Ali, Satya Prakash, Arvind Kumar, S.K. Tripathi, R.S. Sengar, Jitender Singh and Upendra Maurya (2022). Effect of different Training System on Growth of Pear (Pyrus communis L.). Biological Forum – An International Journal, 14(3): 906-910.'),(5388,'136','Genetic Diversity Study among Garden Pea (Pisum sativum var. hortense L.) Genotypes','Mamatha R.M., Ramesh Kumar Sharma, Ajay Bhardwaj and Randhir Kumar','154 Genetic Diversity Study among Garden Pea (Pisum sativum var. hortense L.) Genotypes Mamatha RM.pdf','',1,'Pea (Pisum sativum var. hortense L.), is leguminous vegetable crop belongs to the family leguminosae with a diploid chromosome number 2n=14 and it is grown as a garden and field crop throughout the temperate regions of the world. China is the major pea producing country followed by India and USA. Although, it is cultivated in different regions of the country, but the average pod yield is quite low in Bihar when compared with National average (7.5 t/ha). The plant breeders are always interested to know the genetic divergence among the varieties available due to reasons that crosses involving genetically diverse parents are likely to produce high heterotic effect and they produce wide spectrum of variability. Hence the investigation was carried out to identify high yielding genotypes for Bihar condition. A total of 28 garden pea (Pisum sativum var. hortense L.) genotypes were evaluated to study the genetic diversity for the characters under study. The genotypes were grown in plots using Randomized Complete Block Design (RCBD) at Experimental farm of the Department of Horticulture (Vegetable and Floriculture), Bihar Agricultural College, BAU, Sabour, Bhagalpur, Bihar during 2018-19. The analysis of variance shown that mean sums of squares due to genotypes were significant for all the parameters. The multivariate analysis revealed that genotypes were arranged in 9 clusters with maximum number of genotypes in cluster I (15). Protein content contributed maximum towards total genetic divergence. The inter-cluster distance ranged from 118.51-3590.62. The highest intra-cluster distance was exhibited by cluster I (324.27). The maximum inter-cluster genetic divergence was recorded between II and IX (3590.62). Crosses involving genotypes of cluster II (Badshah-10, Taj-C3, IC-109696, ADU-12, Same-04 and Arkel) and IX (Nirali) would expect maximum heterosis and desirable recombinants in the segregating generations of garden pea. Genotypes ‘Peas TSX-10’, ‘Punjab-89’, ‘Badshah-10’, ‘Haze-02’ and ‘VM-10’ were observed to be promising on the basis of pod characters and yield.','Diversity, garden pea, yield, heterosis, genetic divergence','The multivariate analysis revealed considerable genetic diversity present in the 28 genotypes studied. Hybridization between genotypes of cluster I such as ‘VM-10’, ‘Peas TSX-10’, ‘EC-507771’, ‘Pusa Prabhat’, ‘IC-552770’, ‘Muze-02’, ‘EC-412882’, ‘Azad P-3’, ‘EC-269571’, ‘AP-3’, ‘VM-12’, ‘P-3771’, ‘Muze-01’, ‘P-3824’, ‘Buxe-03’ and ‘Nirali’ of cluster V, could get more recombinants in the segregating generations.','INTRODUCTION\r\nGarden pea (Pisum sativum var. hortense L.), belongs to family leguminosae (Fabaceae), and is extensively grown and popular vegetable crop. It is the second most important food legume worldwide after Phaseolus vulgaris (Taran et al., 2005). It is a rich source of protein, amino acids and carbohydrates. Peas are highly nutritive and are rich source of digestible proteins (7%), along with carbohydrates and minerals. It is used as a fresh vegetable or in soup, canned, processed or dehydrated. Worldwide garden pea occupies an area of 2.66 million hectares, production of 20.67 million tonnes with a productivity of 7.75 t/ha. In India, area of 0.053 million hectares, production 5.345 million tonnes with a productivity of 10.08 t/ha. In Bihar, it occupies an area 10,510 ha with a production of 66,360 tonnes and the productivity is 6.31 t/ha (Anonymous, 2017). Although, it is cultivated in different regions of the country and is one of the preferred winter vegetables, but the average green pod yield is quite low in Bihar (6.31t/ha) when compared with National (10.08t/ha) and world average (7.5 t/ha). Hence the investigation was carried out to identify high yielding genotypes for Bihar condition. The variability between different cultivars of a crop species is known as genetic diversity. Variability differs from diversity in such a way that variability shows observable phenotypic differences whereas diversity may or may not having observable phenotypic differences, latter may or may not have such an expression. The method of surveying hereditary difference is the D2 measurement proposed by Mahalanobis (1936). In this method, forces of differentiation at two levels (intra and inter cluster levels) are screened out, and thus play an effective part in the selection of genetically divergent parents for utilization in any hybridization programme (Singh 1983). Keeping these facts in view, the present investigation was carried out with the objective to analyse genetic diversity among the genotypes of garden pea.\r\n \r\n\r\n\r\nMATERIALS AND METHODS\r\nThe experimental material for the present study comprised of 28 genotypes of vegetable pea (Pisum sativum var. hortense L.). These genotypes were evaluated during rabi season at the Experimental farm of the Department of Horticulture (Vegetable and Floriculture), Bihar Agricultural College, BAU, Sabour, Bhagalpur, Bihar during 2018-19. The experiment was laid out in complete randomized block design with three replications. The pea seeds were sown at a spacing of 30 cm x 10 cm during the first week of October. Recommended package of practices were followed for healthy growth of the crop. The observations were recorded on randomly taken five plants of each genotype in each replication followed by computing their means for the horticultural and quality traits. The data were statistically analysed as per the standard procedure for analysis of variance (Panse and Sukhatme 1954). Using D2 values, different genotypes were grouped into various clusters following Tocher\'s method as suggested by Rao (1952). \r\nRESULT AND DISCUSSION\r\nThe analysis of variance shown that mean sum of squares due to genotypes were significant for all the growth parameters, yield contributing traits, and quality characters, indicating the presence of sufficient genetic variability in the genotypes.\r\nOn the basis of D2 values, 28 genotypes of garden pea were arranged into nine clusters following Tocher\'s procedure (Rao, 1952) and also represented in dendrogram (Fig. 1). Among different clusters, cluster I was the largest one. Singh and Mishra (2008); Katkani et al. (2022) also reported cluster I as the largest one. Out of the 9 clusters of 28 genotypes, cluster I comprised of maximum 15 genotypes (VM-10, Peas TSX-10, EC-507771, Pusa Prabhat, IC-552770, Muze-02, EC-412882, Azad P3, IC-269571, AP-3, VM-12, P-3771, Muze-01, P-3824 and Buxe-03) followed by cluster II with 6 genotypes (Badshah-10, Taj-C3, IC-109696, ADU-12, Same-04 and Arkel) and the remaining clusters namely III (EC-598559 ), IV (Punjab -89), V (NBR-Ruchi), VI (EC-269571), VII (VM-11), VIII (Haze-02), IX (Nirali) were monogenotypic i.e., containing one genotype (Table 1). Different clustering patterns in garden pea were also obtained by earlier workers Siddika et al. (2014), Georgieva et al. (2016); Katkani et al. (2022); Singh and Mishra (2008); Ahmed et al. (2021). \r\nThe average intra-cluster distance ranged from 0 to 324.27 with the highest in cluster I (324.27) followed by cluster II (239.4). The clusters III, IV, V, VI, VII, VIII and IX were constituted by a single genotype each and hence, their intra-cluster distance was zero. The inter-cluster distance ranged from 118.51-3590.62. The maximum inter-cluster genetic divergence was observed between clusters II and IX (3590.62) followed by clusters III and clusters IX (2542.12), clusters II and VII (2193.85) and clusters II and VI (1902.16) (Table 2). This clearly suggests the presence of sufficient amount of genetic diversity among the garden pea genotypes. Since the intra-cluster distance was low, the chances of getting good recombinants by hybridization between parents within cluster would be low. Therefore, it is necessary to attempt hybridization between genotypes falling under different clusters based on inter-cluster distance. A wide range of inter-cluster genetic distance among the different clusters of pea genotypes have also been reported by Singh et al. (2008); Georgieva et al. (2016); Khan et al. (2017); Muthuselvi and Shanthi (2013); Kumar and Kumar (2016) also reported. Maximum number of transgressive segregants could be obtained in a hybridization programme involving genotypes of cluster II and IX as parents.\r\nCluster means for different traits showed substantial differences among the clusters for each trait (Table 3). The cluster IV superior for lower node number at which at which first flower appeared, seeds per pod and shelling (%). Cluster V found superior for early maturity manifested by days to first picking and also for pod length and high TSS. Cluster VI Showed maximum mean values for number of primary branches. Cluster VII exhibited highest mean values for five traits namely days to first flower, days to 50% flowering, minimum internodal length, ascorbic acid and total sugar, whereas cluster VIII for maximum plant height, pods per plant and pod yield per plant. Cluster IX showed maximum mean values for nodes per plant and protein. These findings are in accordance with Brahmaiah et al. (2014). The contribution of individual characters to divergence has been worked out in terms of number of times it appeared first (Table 4). Protein (38.62%) contributed maximum towards genetic divergence followed by ascorbic acid (38.10%), total sugar (12.17%) and no. of primary branches (3.97%). Variable contribution of different plant growth and yield characters to genetic distance have also been reported by Georgieva et al. (2016); Gupta et al. (2017) in garden pea.\r\n','Mamatha R.M., Ramesh Kumar Sharma, Ajay Bhardwaj and Randhir Kumar (2022). Genetic Diversity Study among Garden Pea (Pisum sativum var. hortense L.) Genotypes. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 14(3): 911-915.'),(5389,'136','Analysis of Correlation and Path coefficient among the Yield and Yield Attributes Characters in Potato (Solanum tuberosum L.)','Rahul Kumar, Satya Prakash, S.K. Luthra, Bijendra Singh, Pooran Chand, Vipin Kumar, Rajendra Singh and Khursheed Alam','155 Analysis of Correlation and Path coefficient among the Yield and Yield Attributes Characters in Potato (Solanum tuberosum L.) Rahul Kumar.pdf','',1,'The present investigation was carried out at Horticulture Research Center (HRC), Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel University of Agriculture and Technology, Meerut during Rabi season 2020-21 to determine the correlation and path-coefficient analysis in potato (Solanum tuberosum L.). The experiment comprised 21 genotypes of potato which were sown in Randomized Block Design (RBD) with three replications. The correlation coefficient is used to convey the degree of association between dependent and independent variables. It gives a clear image of the degree of the association between a pair of the features and suggests whether related features can be improved simultaneously. Path coefficient analysis is useful method for estimating the direct and indirect effects of different contributing features on tuber yield. Tuber yield plant-1 showed highly significant and positive correlation with tuber size, number of leaves at 60 DAP, number of tubers plant-1, germination % at 20 DAP, number of leaves at 30 DAP and positive but non-significant correlation with number of stem plant-1, number of nodes at 60 DAP, number of nodes at 30 DAP. Whereas, it was negative and highly significant correlation with plant height, length of internodes both at phenotypic and genotypic level. The genotypic correlation was significantly stronger than the corresponding phenotypic values, indicating a strong underlying link between several character pairings. Path coefficient analysis revealed that positive and direct effect on tuber yield per plant was exerted by the length of internodes followed by tuber size, number of tubers plant-1, number of nodes at 30 DAP, number of leaves at 60 DAP, germination % at 20 DAP. While, negative direct effect on tuber yield per plant was exerted by the plant height followed by number of nodes at 60 DAP, number of stem plant-1 and number of nodes at 30 DAP.','Correlation, path coefficient, potato, Yield Attributes, Solanum tuberosum','Based on correlation result it was concluded that tuber yield plant-1 (g) exhibited highly significant and positive correlation with tuber size (cm) followed by number of leaves at 60 days, number of tubers plant-1, germination % at 20 DAP both at genotypic and phenotypic level.\r\nBased on path coefficient analysis, the highest positive and direct effect on tuber yield plant-1 was exhibited by length of internodes followed by tuber size, number of tubers plant-1, number of nodes at 30 DAP, number of leaves at 60 DAP and germination % at 20 DAP would be considered as the reliable selection parameters for developing high yielding genotype.\r\n','INTRODUCTION\r\nPotato (Solanum tuberosum L. 2n=4x=48) is known as the \"King of vegetables\". It\'s a tuber crop that belongs to the solanaceae family (Rahman et al., 2016). Thebase chromosome number of Potato is X=12, In addition to diploids (2n = 2x = 24), triploids (2n = 36), tetraploids (2n = 48), pentaploids (2n = 60), and hexaploids (2n = 72) (Lee et al., 2021). In terms of food and protein production per unit area and time, it is superior to all other major food crops, thus contributing to global food and nutritional security. Potato is widely used as raw material in the starch extraction industry. About 75 to 80% of a potato tuber\'s weight is made up of water, followed by 16 to 20% of carbs, 2.5 to 3.2% of crude protein, 1.2 to 2.2% of true protein, 0.8 to 1.2% minerals, 0.1% to 0.2% of crude fat, 0.6% of crude fibre, and vitamins B and C. (Patel et al., 2018).\r\nPotato is a Rabi season crop. It’s better growth and production around 20-degree Celsius temperature are needed. In potato, tubers formed from the stolon. It is a most basal node of the plant, below the soil level. Stolon formation and tuberization of stolons are the two stages of tuber formation. The potato tuber is a modified stem with a shorter axis and leaf tissue that is noticeably undeveloped. Inflorescence of potato is cymose, it’s fruit type is berry, and it’s flowers are generally open in the early morning. Potato is self-pollinated crop (Ram 2019).\r\nYield is a complex character that is influenced by many different contributing factors and how they interact. A correlation coefficient analysis measures the relationship between two or more plant characters and determines the component characters for selection that can be used to improve yields through genetic improvement and the term correlation is given by Galton (1988). Path coefficient analysis can help determine whether the association of these characters is due to their direct effects on yield or is a result of indirect effects they exert via other component characters. The path coefficient technique was developed by Wright (1921). In order to determine the degree of correlation between various yield-contributing attributes and their direct and indirect effects on tuber yield, the current study was conducted (Prabha et. al., 2016).\r\nMATERIAL AND METHODS\r\nThe current study was carried out utilizing a Randomized Block Design with three replications at the Horticulture Research Center of the Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel University of Agriculture and Technology in Modipuram, Meerut, during the Rabi season 2020–21. Individual plot dimensions for the potato genotypes were 1.8×1.0 meter with spacing (60 × 20 cm). In that experiment materials comprised 21 morphological different potato genotypes (Table 1) were taken from CPRI Modipuram Meerut. For observation five plants were selected in each plot to grow a healthy crop entire suggested agronomical operations and plant protection measures were applied during studied. The following eleven characters were observed in five selected plants viz., germination % at 20 DAP, number of leaves at 30 DAP, number of leaves at 60 DAP, number of nodes at 30 DAP, number of nodes at 60 DAP, length of internodes, plant height, number of stem plant-1, number of tubers plant-1, tuber sized, tuber yield plant-1. Correlation coefficient was suggested by employing the formula given by (Al-jibouri et al., 1958). The path coefficient was calculated using Dewey and Lu\'s approach from 1959.\r\nRESULT AND DISCUSSION\r\nCorrelation coefficient. In general, the genotypic correlation coefficient was found to be larger than the phenotypic correlation coefficient among the eleven characters under study (Table 2), indicating a significant intrinsic link between various pairs of features in potato germplasm.\r\nAt the genotypic level, tuber yield plant-1 showed positive and highly significant correlation with tuber size (cm) (0.772**), followed by number of leaves at 60 DAP (0.550**), number of tubers plant-1 (0.501**), germination % at 20 DAP (0.332**), number of leaves at 30 DAP (0.288*). Whereas, negative and highly significant correlation with plant height (-0.339**), length of internodes (cm) (-0.316*). Positive and non-significant correlation with number of stem plant-1 (0.215), number of nodes at 60 DAP (0.148), number of nodes at 30 DAP (0.111).\r\nAt the phenotypic level, tuber yield plant-1 exhibited highly positive and significant correlation with tuber size (cm) (0.742**) followed by number of leaves at 60 DAP (0.549**), number of tubers plant-1 (0.489**), number of leaves at 30 DAP (0.277*), germination % at 20 DAP (0.246*). Highly significant but negative correlation with plant height (-0.328**), length of internodes (cm) (-0.294*). Whereas positive and non-significant correlation with number of stem plant-1 (0.207), number of nodes at 60 DAP (0.148), number of nodes at 30 DAP (0.110).\r\nGermination % at 20 DAP showed highly significant and positive correlation with tuber size, tuber yield plant-1. Whereas, positive and non-significant correlation with number of stem plant-1, number of leaves at 30 DAP, number of leaves at 60 DAP, number of nodes at 30 DAP, number of nodes at 60 DAP. Negative and non- significant correlation with length of internodes, plant height, number of tubers plant-1. Number of leaves at 30 DAP exhibited positive and highly significant correlation with number of leaves at 60 DAP, number of stem plant-1, tuber yield plant-1. Whereas, positive and non-significant correlation with number of nodes at 60 DAP, germination % at 20 DAP, number of nodes at 30 DAP, tuber size (cm), number of tubers plant-1 while, negative and non-significant correlation with plant height (cm), length of internodes (cm). Number of leaves at 60 DAP showed positive and significant correlation with number of nodes at 60 DAP, number of nodes at 30 DAP, number of stem plant-1, number of leaves at 30 DAP, tuber yield plant-1, number of tubers plant-1. Whereas, positive and non-significant correlation with tuber size, germination % at 20 DAP, length of internodes while negative and non-significant correlation with plant height. Number of nodes at 30 DAP showed highly positive and significant correlation with number of nodes at 60 DAP, number of stem plant-1, number of leaves at 60 DAP, number of tubers plant-1. Positive and non-significant correlation with number of leaves at 30 DAP, tuber yield plant-1, germination % at 20 DAP, while negative and non-significant correlation with tuber size (cm), plant height, length of internodes. Number of nodes at 60 DAP exhibited positive and significant correlation with number of nodes at 30 DAP, number of stem plant-1, number of leaves at 60 DAP, number of tubers plant-1. Whereas, positive and non-significant correlation with number of leaves at 30 DAP, tuber yield plant-1, germination % at 20 DAP, length of internodes while negative and non-significant correlation with tuber size, plant height. Length of internode showed positive and highly significant correlation with plant height, and negative and highly significant correlation with number of tubers plant-1, while negative and less-significant correlation with tuber yield plant-1, number of stem plant-1. Positive and non-significant correlation with number of leaves at 60 DAP, number of nodes at 60 DAP and negative and non-significant correlation with tuber size, germination % at 20 DAP, number of nodes at 30 DAP, number of leaves at 30 DAP. Plant height showed positive and highly significant correlation with the length of internodes, while negative and significant correlation with number of stem plant-1, number of tubers plant-1, tuber yield plant-1. Negative and non-significant correlation with tuber size, germination % at 20 DAP, number of leaves at 30 DAP, number of nodes at 30 DAP, number of leaves at 60 DAP, number of nodes at 60 DAP. Number of stem plant-1 exerted positive and highly significant correlation with number of nodes at 60 DAP, number of nodes at 30 DAP, number of tubers plant-1, number of leaves at 60 DAP, while positive and less significant correlation with number of leaves at 30 DAP. Negative and highly significant correlation with plant height whereas, negative and less significant correlation with length of internodes. Positive and non-significant correlation with germination % at 20 DAP, tuber yield plant-1 while, negative and non-significant correlation with tuber size. Number of tubers plant-1 showed positive and highly significant correlation with number of stem plant-1, tuber yield plant-1, number of leaves at 60 DAP, number of nodes at 60 DAP, number of nodes at 30 DAP, while negative and highly significant correlation with length of internodes, plant height. Positive and non-significant correlation with number of leaves at 30 DAP, tuber size, while negative and non-significant correlation with germination % at 20 DAP. Tuber size exhibited positive and highly significant correlation with tuber yield plant-1, germination % at 20 DAP. Positive and non-significant correlation with number of leaves at 30 DAP, number of leaves at 60 DAP, number of tubers plant-1 while negative and non-significant correlation with length of internodes, plant height, number of nodes at 30 DAP, number of nodes at 60 DAP, number of stem plant-1. Similarly, result was earlier finding by Sattar et al. (2007); Haydar et al. (2009); Lamboro et al. (2014); Alam et al. (2020); Kumar et al. (2020); Lavanya et al. (2020).\r\nPath coefficient analysis. To determine the direct and indirect effects of various features on tuber yield plant-1, the path coefficient analysis was conducted from genotypic and phenotypic correlation coefficient (Table 3).\r\nGenotypic path coefficient. At genotypic level, it was observed that the length of internodes showed high positive direct effect on tuber yield plant-1 (kg) followed by tuber size, number of tubers plant-1, number of nodes at 30 DAP, number of leaves at 60 DAP, germination % at 20 DAP, whereas, negative direct effect on tuber yield plant-1 was exerted by the plant height followed by number of nodes at 60 DAP, number of stem plant-1, number of leaves at 30 DAP.\r\nAt the genotypic level highly positive indirect effect on tuber yield plant-1 was exhibited by the tuber size (cm), number of leaves at 30 DAP, number of stem plant-1, number of leaves at 60 DAP, number of nodes at 30 DAP, number of nodes at 60 DAP while highly negative indirect effect on tuber yield plant-1 was showed by the length of internodes (cm), plant height, number of tubers plant-1 via., germination % at 20 DAP respectively. Highly positive indirect effect on tuber yield plant-1 was showed by the plant height, length of internodes (cm) while highly negative indirect effect on tuber yield plant-1 was exhibited by the number of leaves at 60 DAP, germination % at 20 DAP, number of stem plant-1, number of nodes at 30 DAP, number of nodes at 60 DAP, tube size (cm), number of tubers plant-1 via., number of leaves at 30 DAP respectively. Number of nodes at 60 DAP, number of stem plant-1, number of nodes at 30 DAP, number of leaves at 30 DAP, number of tubers plant-1, germination % at 20 DAP, tuber size (cm), and length of internodes (cm) showed considerable positive indirect effects on tuber yield plant-1 while plant height exhibited negative indirect effect on tuber yield plant-1 via., Number of leaves at 60 DAP respectively. Number of leaves at 30 DAP, number of nodes at 60 DAP, number of leaves at 60 DAP, number of stem plant-1, germination % at 20 DAP, and number of tubers plant-1 exhibited considerable positive indirect effect on tuber yield plant-1 whereas tuber size (cm), plant height and length of internodes (cm) showed considerable negative indirect effect on tuber yield per plant via., number of nodes at 30 DAP respectively. Tuber size (cm), plant height showed considerable positive indirect effect on tuber yield plant-1 while number of tubers plant-1, number of nodes at 30 DAP, number of stem plant-1, number of leaves at 30 DAP, number of leaves at 60 DAP, germination % at 20 DAP and length of internodes (cm) exhibited considerable negative indirect effect on tuber yield plant-1 via., number of nodes at 60 DAP respectively. Plant height, number of leaves at 60 DAP, number of nodes at 60 DAP exhibited considerable positive indirect effect on tuber yield plant-1 whereas number of tubers plant-1, number stem plant-1, tuber size (cm), germination % at 20 DAP, number of nodes at 30 DAP, number of leaves at 30 DAP showed considerable negative indirect effect on tuber yield plant-1 via., length of internodes (cm) respectively. Number of stem plant-1, number of tubers plant-1, germination % at 20 DAP, tube size (cm), number of leaves at 30 DAP, number of nodes at 30 DAP, number of leaves at 60 DAP, number of nodes at 60 DAP exhibited considerable positive indirect effect on tuber yield plant-1 while length of internodes (cm) showed considerable negative indirect effect on tuber yield plant-1 via., plant height (cm) respectively. Plant height, length of internodes (cm), tuber size (cm) showed considerable positive indirect effect on tuber yield plant-1 while number of tubers plant-1, number of leaves at 60 DAP, number of leaves at 30 DAP, germination % at 20 DAP, number of nodes at 30 DAP, number of nodes at 60 DAP exhibited negative indirect effect on tuber yield plant-1 via., number of stem plant-1 respectively. Number of stem plant-1, number of leaves at 60 DAP, number of nodes at 60 DAP, number of nodes at 30 DAP, number of leaves at 30 DAP, tuber size (cm) showed considerable positive indirect effect on tuber yield plant-1 whereas, length of internodes (cm), plant height, germination % at 20 DAP exhibited considerable negative indirect effect on tuber yield plant-1 via., number of tubers plant-1 respectively. Germination % at 20 DAP, number of leaves at 30 DAP, number of leaves at 60 DAP, number of tubers plant-1 showed considerable positive indirect effect on tuber yield plant-1 while, plant height, length of internodes (cm), number of nodes at 30 DAP, number of nodes at 60 DAP, number of stem plant-1 exhibited considerable negative indirect effect on tuber yield plant-1 via., tuber size respectively. Similarly, the finding was reported earlier by Tripura et al. (2016); Shubha and Singh (2018); Patel et al. (2018); Hajam et al. (2019); Supriatna et al. (2019).\r\nPhenotypic path coefficient. At phenotypic level, it was recorded that highly positive direct effect on tuber yield plant-1 were exerted by length of internodes followed by tuber size, number of tubers plant-1, number of nodes at 30 DAP, number of leaves at 60 DAP, germination % at 20 DAP whereas, negative direct effect on tuber yield plant-1 was exerted by the plant height followed by number of nodes at 60 DAP, number of stem plant-1 and number of leaves at 30 DAP.\r\nAt the phenotypic level highly positive indirect effect on tuber yield plant-1 was exerted by the length of internodes (cm) followed by plant height, number of tubers plant-1 while negative indirect effect on tuber yield plant-1 was exerted by the tuber size, number of stem plant-1, number of leaves at 30 DAP, number of leaves at 60 DAP, number of nodes at 30 DAP, number of nodes at 60 DAP via., germination % at 20 DAP respectively. Highly positive indirect effect on tuber yield plant-1 was exerted by the plant height followed by length of internodes (cm) while negative indirect effect on tuber yield was exerted by the number of leaves at 60 DAP followed by number of stem plant-1, number of nodes at 60 DAP, germination % at 20 DAP, number of nodes at 30 DAP, tuber size (cm), number of tubers plant-1 via., number of leaves at 30 DAP respectively. Highly positive indirect effect on tuber yield plant-1 was exerted by the number of nodes at 60 DAP followed by number of nodes at 30 DAP, number of stem plant-1, number of leaves at 30 DAP, number of tubers plant-1, tuber size (cm), germination % at 20 DAP, length of internodes (cm) while negative indirect effect on tuber yield plant-1 was exerted by the plant height via., number of leaves at 60 DAP respectively. Highly positive indirect effect on tube yield plant-1 was exerted by the tuber size (cm), followed by plant height, length of internodes (cm) while negative indirect effect on tuber yield plant-1 was exerted by the number of nodes at 60 DAP, followed by number of stem plant-1, number of leaves at 60 DAP, number of tubers plant-1, number of leaves at 30 DAP, germination % at 20 DAP, via., number of nodes at 30 DAP respectively. Highly positive indirect effect on tuber yield plant-1 was exerted by the number of nodes at 30 DAP followed by number of stem plant-1, number of leaves at 60 DAP, number of tubers plant-1, number of leaves at 30 DAP, germination % at 20 DAP, length of internodes (cm) while negative indirect effect on tuber yield plant-1 was exerted by the tuber size (cm), followed by plant height via., number of nodes at 60 DAP respectively. Highly positive indirect effect on tuber yield plant-1 was exerted by the plant height, followed by number of leaves at 60 DAP, number of nodes at 60 DAP while negative indirect effect on tuber yield plant-1 was exerted by the numbers of tubers plant-1 followed by number of stem plant-1, tuber size (cm), germination % at 20 DAP, number of nodes at 30 DAP, number of leaves at 30 DAP via., length of internodes (cm) respectively. Highly positive indirect effect on tuber yield plant-1 was exerted by the number of stem plant-1 followed by number of tubers plant-1, tuber size (cm), germination % at 20 DAP, number of leaves at 30 DAP, number of nodes at 30 DAP, number of leaves at 60 DAP, number of nodes at 60 DAP whereas, negative indirect effect on tuber yield plant-1 was exerted by the length of internodes (cm) via., plant height (cm) respectively. Highly positive indirect effect on tuber yield plant-1 was exerted by the plant height followed by length of internodes (cm), tuber size (cm)whereas, negative indirect effect on tuber yield plant-1 was exerted by the number of nodes at 60 DAP followed by the number of nodes at 30 DAP, number of tubers plant-1, number of leaves at 60 DAP, number of leaves at 30 DAP, germination % at 20 DAP, via., number of stem plant-1 respectively. Highly positive indirect effect on tuber yield plant-1 was exerted by the number of stem plant-1 followed by number of leaves at 60 DAP, number of nodes at 60 DAP, number of nodes at 30 DAP, number of leaves at 30 DAP, tuber size (cm) while negative indirect effect on tuber yield plant-1 was exerted by the length of internodes (cm) followed by plant height, germination % at 20 DAP via., number of tubers plant-1 respectively. Highly positive indirect effect on tuber yield plant-1 was exerted by the germination % at 20 DAP followed by number of leaves at 30 DAP, number of leaves at 60 DAP, number of tubers plant-1 while negative indirect effect on tuber yield plant-1 was exerted by the length of internodes (cm) followed by plant height, number of nodes at 30 DAP, number of nodes at 60 DAP, number of stem plant-1 via., tuber size (cm) respectively. The similar finding was also reported earlier by Dash et al. (2015); Singh et al. (2015); Mandi et al. (2016); Yerima, (2016); Panigrahi et al. (2017).\r\n','Rahul Kumar, Satya Prakash, S.K. Luthra, Bijendra Singh, Pooran Chand, Vipin Kumar, Rajendra Singh and Khursheed Alam (2022). Analysis of Correlation and Path coefficient Among the Yield and Yield Attributes Characters in Potato (Solanum tuberosum L.). Biological Forum – An International Journal, 14(3): 916-922.'),(5390,'136','Growth and Yield of Toria (Brassica campestris var. toria) under various Integrated Nutrient Management Schedules in Trans-Gangetic Plains of Punjab','Sayan Sau, Barkha, Sandal Chaudhary and Miraan Mallick','156 Growth and Yield of Toria (Brassica campestris var. toria) under various Integrated Nutrient Management Schedules in Trans-Gangetic Plains of Punjab Sayan Sau.pdf','',1,'Increasing crop yield is essential in the current context of a growing population and a relatively stable amount of farmland. To achieve this goal, chemical fertilizers are often over-applied to high-yielding cultivars, which not only reduces agricultural net profit but also negatively impacts soil quality and human health. The aim of the present study was to assess potential solutions, such as the INM method, to this difficulty. The research experiment was carried out during Rabi season of 2021-22 at the agriculture farm of Lovely Professional University, Phagwara, Punjab. TL-17 variety of toria with nitrogen and phosphorus doses of 100%, 75%, and 50% RDF along with FYM at a dose of 5t/ha, vermicompost dose of 2t/ha, boron, zinc, and Azotobacter was evaluated for various parameters at 30, 60 and 90 days. The present research study defined the effect of growth and yield of toria (Brassica campestris var. toria) under various integrated nutrient management schedules in the trans-Gangetic plains of Punjab. The experiment consists of eight treatments and three replications and was set up in a Randomized Block Design (RBD). The study revealed that the treatment 75% RDF + FYM (5t/ha) + Azotobacter (40g/kg seed treatment) reported significantly higher plant height (58.33, 120.66 and 148.41cm), leaf count (7.94,42.83 and 17.82), No. of branches (6.67 and 9.23), dry weight (1.76, 6.76 and 48.24g), siliqua length (7.23 cm), No. of siliqua (284), No. of seeds/siliqua (13.38), test weight (4.68g), seed yield (1772.82kg/ha) and stover yield (3009.75 kg/ha) compared to all other treatment combinations. The outcomes achieved may provide a better way to reach the desired level of productivity, profitability, and sustainability.','Recommend Dose of Fertilizer, Integrated Nutrient Management, Farm Yard Manure','Based on the above findings, it can be concluded that using 75 % of RDF from chemical fertilizers along with FYM at a dose of 5t/ha in combination with Azotobacter improved growth and productivity in toria crops grown in the trans-Gangetic plains of Punjab.','INTRODUCTION\r\nOilseeds are the second-most significant crop after cereals for the agricultural economy. They supply vital fatty acids and are also used to make cattle feed and are popular in pharma, biofuel and oleochemical industries. Currently, oilseed production in India is 1.04 percent higher than in 2008-09 (Kumar and Tiwari 2020). In India, rapeseed and mustard are the 2nd most valuable edible oilseed crops in India. Toria (Brassica campestris var. toria) is a short-duration crop used as a catch crop in the tarai region of UP, Assam and Odisha. Brassica crops are grown in a rainfed, resource-poor environment. Small and marginal farmers with minimal resources can grow toria in these locations. Rapeseed-mustard contributes greatly to small and marginal farmers\' livelihoods as they rely heavily on it, especially in rainfed areas (Kumar et al., 2015). India is the biggest producer in the world, with 6.32 million hectares of land used to grow Brassica, which accounts for about 7.39 million tonnes of total world production (Mahanta et al., 2019).\r\nWith a continuously growing population, edible oil demand is soaring too. In order to maintain productivity as well as sustainability, integrated nutrient management (INM) can be a very effective approach. INM combines inorganic and organic fertilizers to maintain soil fertility without reducing crop output. It involves a judicious blend of organic and inorganic nutrition coupled with biofertilizers. INM was not practiced earlier as no one understood its significance also the crop nutrient loss was minimal cause of subsistence farming practiced by the farmers (Sharma et al., 2022). Chemical fertilizer efficiency can be improved with organic manure. It minimizes nutrient loss from inorganic fertilizers by improving the soil\'s Physico-chemical characteristics, which replenishes biological activity in the soil (Kumarswamy, 2001). Vermicompost is effective organic manure for establishing beneficial soil bacteria and increasing nitrogen-fixing microorganisms. FYM is a broken-down mixture that can be used as a soil conditioner. It contains animal waste, urine, trash, and leftover roughage or feed. Azotobacter improves crop growth rate (CGR) by adding nitrogen to the soil. Zinc and Boron are two of the most essential micronutrients. Zinc helps in producing chlorophyll which eventually leads to the proper growth and development of plant whereas, Boron helps in the transportation of sugar as well as cell division in plants.\r\nMATERIALS AND METHODS\r\nDuring the Rabi season of 2021-22, an experiment was carried out at Agriculture Farm, School of Agriculture, Lovely Professional University, Phagwara, Punjab with the objective of studying growth and yield of Toria (Brassica campestris var. toria) under various integrated nutrient management schedules in trans-Gangetic plains of India on sandy loam soils. The experimental site was situated at an altitude of 234m above mean sea level at 31.2560° N latitude and 75.7051° E longitude, respectively. The experiment was laid out in Randomized Block Design (RBD) in three replications with eight treatments viz., T1: Control, T2: 100% RDF(N: P 63: 20kg/ha), T3: 75% RDF + VC (2t/ha), T4: 75% RDF + FYM (5 t/ha), T5: 75% RDF + VC (2t/ha) + Azotobacter (40g/kg seed treatment), T6: 75% RDF + FYM (5 t/ha) + Azotobacter (40g/kg seed treatment), T7: 50% RDF + VC (2t/ha) + Azotobacter (40g/kg seed treatment)+ Zn (0.5% foliar) + B (0.5% foliar), T8: 50% RDF + FYM (5 t/ha) + Azotobacter (40g/kg seed treatment) + Zn (0.5% foliar) + B (0.5% foliar). Nitrogen and phosphorus were applied through urea and SSP with a half dose of N and a full dose of P at the time of sowing and the remaining half dose of N with first irrigation. Vermicompost and FYM, as per the treatments were added one week prior to sowing during land preparation and were properly mixed into the soil while planking. Boron (0.5% foliar) and Zinc (0.5% foliar) were applied through foliar application. Seeds were treated with Azotobacter before sowing. Observations were taken from 5 randomly chosen plants from each plot in each replication. Significant findings were later determined using statistical analysis done at the level of 5% probability.\r\nRESULTS AND DISCUSSION\r\nA. Effect of integrated nutrient management on growth attributes of toria\r\nPlant height. Growth parameters of toria (TL-17) were significantly affected by different treatments as shown in the Table 1 and 2.75% RDF + FYM (5 t/ha) + Azotobacter (40g/kg seed treatment) (T6) recorded significantly maximum height at 30,60 and 90 days after sowing (58.33, 120.66 and 148.41cm, respectively) which stayed at par with 50% RDF + FYM (5 t/ha) + Azotobacter (40g/kg seed treatment) + Zn (0.5% foliar) + B (0.5% foliar) (T8) and 75% RDF + FYM (5 t/ha) (T4). This increase in plant height is attributed to the N, P and K applied in the soil through 75% RDF and FYM as the integration of both these sources together prolonged the availability of nutrients to the plants. Treating the seeds with Azotobacter helps in fixing the atmospheric nitrogen which makes more nitrogen available for the plant, thus influencing the plant height in a positive way (Bijarnia et al., 2017).\r\n \r\nLeaf count. As evident from Table 1, significantly higher leaf count (7.94, 42.83 and 17.82) at 30,60 and 90 days after sowing were observed in 75% RDF + FYM (5 t/ha) + Azotobacter (40g/kg seed treatment) (T6). However, at 30 DAS, treatments 75% RDF + FYM (5 t/ha) (T4) and 50% RDF + FYM (5 t/ha) + Azotobacter (40g/kg seed treatment) + Zn (0.5% foliar)+ B (0.5% foliar) (T8) recorded leaf count (7.27 and 7.16cm) which is at par with T6. Application of N directly influences the vegetative growth of the plant. FYM improves the soil\'s physio-chemical condition, creating a favourable environment that promotes the absorption of nutrients and boosts macro as well as micronutrients which eventually increases the nutrients available for the plants. FYM along with Azotobacter enhances the nutrient availability for the plants which eventually leads to higher leaf count as well as vegetative growth. These results are in agreement with the findings of Tripathi et al. (2010).\r\nNumber of branches. Among all the treatments, 75% RDF + FYM (5 t/ha) + Azotobacter (40g/kg seed treatment) (T6) recorded significantly higher number of branches in toria (6.67 and 9.23) at 60 and 90 days after sowing as shown in Table 2. Application of 75% RDF + FYM @ 5t/ha along with biofertilizer (Azotobacter) increases the nutrients available for the plants which eventually influences the vegetative growth. Similar results were given by Kalita et al. (2019); Kashved et al.(2010)\r\nDry weight accumulation. 75% RDF + FYM (5 t/ha) + Azotobacter (40g/kg seed treatment) (T6) recorded the maximum dry weight (1.76, 6.76 and 48.24g) at 30, 60 and 90 days after sowing as shown in Table 2. Treatments with 75% RDF + FYM (5 t/ha) (T4) and 50% RDF + FYM (5 t/ha) + Azotobacter (40g/kg seed treatment) + Zn (0.5% foliar) + B (0.5% foliar) (T8) was also statistically at par with T6. As a result of increased plant height due to sufficient N and other nutrient supplies in the soil, total dry matter assimilation improved as well. This is because taller plants have greater opportunities to create and store photosynthates, they produce more dry matter which eventually leads to more dry weight. It was also seen that the application of chemical fertilizers alongside FYM, Zn, and seed treatment had positive effects on the height and dry matter content of mustard plants (Singh and Pal 2011; Tripathi et al., 2010).\r\nB. Effect of integrated nutrient management on yield attributes and yield of toria\r\nNumber of siliqua. Significantly higher number of siliqua per plant in toria (284) was observed under 75% RDF + FYM (5 t/ha) + Azotobacter (40g/kg seed treatment) (T6) (Table 3). FYM application with chemical fertilizers and Azotobacter improved the soil\'s physio-chemical condition, provided favourable conditions, and stimulated the uptake of nutrients and almost continuous supply of N, P, K, and S with micronutrients distributed over the entire crop, which resulted in better plant vigor, as well as a greater ability to produce a higher yield at the critical growth period (Mohapatra and Dixit 2010; Tripathi et al. 2010).\r\nSiliqua length. Among all the treatments, 75% RDF + FYM (5 t/ha) + Azotobacter (40g/kg seed treatment) (T6) recorded the highest siliqua length (7.23 cm) at harvest. However, the treatment 75% RDF + FYM (5 t/ha) (T4), 100% RDF (T2) and 50% RDF + FYM (5 t/ha) + Azotobacter (40g/kg seed treatment)+ Zn (0.5% foliar) + B (0.5% foliar) (T8) remained statistically at par with T6 by recording siliqua length of around 6.83, 6.57 and 6.69cm, respectively (Table 3). A combination of FYM, chemical fertilizers, and biofertilizers may have resulted in fast cell multiplication and cell elongation because of the enhanced and longer availability of nutrients which might have influenced the length of the siliqua. Similar results were given by Tripathi et al. (2010).\r\nNumber of seeds per siliqua. As shown in Table 3, treatment 75% RDF + FYM (5 t/ha) + Azotobacter (40g/kg seed treatment) (T6) recorded highest seeds/siliqua (13.38) which is statistically at par with 75% RDF + FYM (5 t/ha) (T4) (12.98). As these treatments improved cell division and tissue development, the number of seeds per siliqua also have risen. Increased seeds per siliqua also arise from higher growth and more photosynthesis as a result of enough nutrients in the crop. Similar findings were reported by Mandal and Sinha (2002); Tripathi et al. (2010).\r\nTest weight. Significantly higher test weight (4.68 g) was observed at 75% RDF + FYM (5 t/ha) + Azotobacter (40g/kg seed treatment) (T6) which is statistically at par with 75% RDF + FYM (5 t/ha) (T4) (4.34). It is due to the result of combining FYM with chemical fertilizers and biofertilizers, that the availability of plant nutrients rises, leading to a more robust seed and an increased seed weight (Chauhan et al., 1995; Tripathi et al., 2010).\r\nSeed yield. According to the findings shown in Table 3, a significantly higher seed yield (1772.82 kg/ha) of toria was observed under75% RDF + FYM (5 t/ha) + Azotobacter (40g/kg seed treatment) (T6).Due to the combined effect of FYM, chemical fertilizers, and biofertilizers, the highest seed production was achieved. Since FYM releases its nutrients slowly, there is less nitrogen loss and more efficient uptake occurs over time. Growth and yield metrics such as plant height, number of primary and secondary branches, siliquae, length of siliqua, number of seeds per siliqua, and seed weight were all improved as a result of better nutrient utilization. Another factor contributing to the increased yields was the capacity of Azotobacter to fix nitrogen. Similar findings were reported by Chauhan et al. (1995); Mandal and Sinha (2002); Chand (2007); Triphati et al. (2010).\r\nStover yield. Among different integrated nutrient management treatments, 75% RDF + FYM (5 t/ha) + Azotobacter (40g/kg seed treatment)(T6)recorded highest stover yield (3009.75 kg/ha) which is statistically at par with 100% RDF (T2), 75% RDF + FYM (5 t/ha) (T4), 75% RDF + VC (2t/ha) + Azotobacter (40g/kg seed treatment) (T5) and 50% RDF + FYM (5 t/ha) + Azotobacter (40g/kg seed treatment) + Zn (0.5% foliar)+ B (0.5% foliar) (T8) showing stover yield of 2686.81, 2771.76, 2651.77 and 2623.78 kg/ha, respectively. The stover yields were boosted by the use of FYM, biofertilizers, and chemical fertilizers. Soil Physico-chemical qualities and microbial populations were enhanced, which resulted in increased crop growth and productivity as a result of fixing atmospheric nitrogen and providing micronutrients favourable to crop growth. Higher fertility enhanced plant height, leaf area, and dry matter per plant, which boosted stover output. These findings are in confirmation with Singh and Pal (2011).\r\nHarvest index. Different treatments failed to show any significant effect on harvest index of toria. One possible explanation for this is that there has been a proportional rise in the yield of both seeds and stover.\r\n','Sayan Sau, Barkha, Sandal Chaudhary and Miraan Mallick (2022). Growth and Yield of Toria (Brassica campestris var. toria) under various Integrated Nutrient Management Schedules in Trans-Gangetic Plains of Punjab. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 14(3): 923-927.'),(5391,'136','Qualitative characterization and Categorization of Barnyard Millet (Echinochloa spp.) Accession, Collected from different Regions of India','Nishi Mishra, Sharad Tiwari, Swapnil Sapre, Sushma Nema, Vinod Kumar Sahu, Keerti Tantwai and Prakash Narayan Tiwari','157 Qualitative characterization and Categorization of Barnyard Millet (Echinochloa spp.) Accession, Collected from different Regions of India Sharad Tiwari.pdf','',1,'This study assesses the critical physical characteristics of barnyard millet (Echinochloa spp.) to analyze qualitative morphological traits based on descriptive scoring. For this study, a total of eight barnyard millet species were assessed in field conditions based on their morphological characteristics, viz. plant growth habit, plant pigmentation, the colour of inflorescence, inflorescence shape, compactness of inflorescence, shape of a lower raceme, branching of the lower raceme, culm branching, degree of lodging at maturity, grain colour and the grain shape. The qualitative data assessment concluded that the diversified characteristics of lines showed a large amount of variation among barnyard millet. This finding could be used to identify species on field conditions, selection, regulating seed quality, seed production, multiplication, and seed certification process because of the variation in genetic makeup. These differences in morphological traits were helpful in the recognition of individual barnyard millet cultures. ','Barnyard millet; Morphological characterization; Qualitative traits; Echinochloa','This study revealed sufficient genetic diversity available in the barnyard millet germplasm in accessions BYM-7, BYM-3, and BYM-1 for the following traits viz., plant growth habit, plant pigmentation, inflorescence colour, inflorescence shape, compactness of inflorescence, the shape of lower raceme and grain colour showed higher variations. These traits and accession may help identify the genotypes and introgression of novel traits in breeding programmes. ','INTRODUCTION\r\nBarnyard millet (Echinochloa spp.) is one of Asia\'s most substantial minor millet crops. Generally, two species of barnyard millet, Indian barnyard millet (Echinochloa frumentacea) and Japanese barnyard millet (Echinochloa utilis) are cultivated on a large scale in different regions of India. About 8600 barnyard millet germplasm accessions are found across the world, with the most extensive germplasm collection by Japan (~3700 accessions), followed by India (~3200 accessions) (Shingane, 2016). In India, barnyard millet is cultivated in the area of 0.146-m-ha−1 and produces 0.147 mt with an average yield of 1034-kg-ha−1 (Renganathan et al., 2020; Karthikeyan et al., 2020). Barnyard millet is generally cultivated in tribal or hilly areas where climatic conditions or soil are not suitable to grow major cereals like rice and wheat. The duration of early maturity and its climate-resilient qualities give it an added benefit in supporting agricultural production and the sustenance of farmers in these areas. \r\nIt has high nutritional value and is rich in antioxidant components, increasing the demand for the crop. Barnyard millet contains protein ranging from 11.1% to 13.9% (Kuraloviya et al., 2019) and also contain carbohydrate of about 65%, fat of 3.9%, crude fibre of 13.6%, and is an excellent source of iron (Fe), zinc (Zn) and other compounds (Vetriventhan and Upadhyaya 2018). It could cure health-related diseases such as diabetes and cardiovascular diseases. It has enormous potential to provide nutrition and food security, especially in hilly areas where major cereals cannot cultivate due to harsh climatic conditions. \r\nThus, this study must differentiate all the morphological characteristics of barnyard millet accession with desirable traits so they can be directly selected to further crop improvement breeding programs. The various characteristics of accession indicate that the morphological variations in collected germplasm occur because of differences in genetic makeup. This variation could be better employed for identifying crops under field conditions, certification process, seed multiplication, and regulating the seed quality. Therefore, the present study is based on the qualitative characterization and categorization of barnyard millet germplasm. \r\nMATERIALS AND METHODS\r\nThe study used eight accessions of Barnyard millet collected from different areas of India. The field trial was conducted in the poly house of Biotechnology Centre, JNKVV Campus, Jabalpur, India, during the Kharif season (2020-2021). The complete list of the accessions is presented in Table 1.\r\nThese eight accessions were evaluated using Randomized Block Design (RBD) in three replications. The recommended agronomical and plant protection practices were followed during the trial. All the observations were taken on five randomly selected plants for each trait in each replication at different growth stages. The morphological characteristics include plant growth habit, plant pigmentation, the colour of inflorescence, inflorescence shape, compactness of inflorescence, shape of a lower raceme, branching from a lower raceme, culm branching, degree of lodging at maturity, grain colour, and grain shape were observed. All the observations were scored on the basis of Echinochloa millet descriptors developed by IBPGR (1893) (Table 2). The data were analyzed using SPSS statistical software. The similarity matrix was prepared with a similarity coefficient using Past software. The Unweighted Pair Group Method with Arithmetic Mean (UPGMA) clustering method of the clustering subroutine SAHN was used to construct the dendrogram.\r\nRESULTS AND DISCUSSION\r\nQualitative characterization of the plant showed constant and distinct inheritance, which could be used to distinguish the genotypes. Qualitative analysis generally is less affected by environmental instabilities. An entire of 11 qualitative plant characters was examined for characterization of the barnyard accession (Table 2), and character descriptors were screened and presented in Table 3. The highest frequency of variation of characters was founded in plant growth habit (Fig. 2), plant pigmentation, inflorescence colour, inflorescence shape, compactness of inflorescence (Fig. 3), and the shape of lower raceme and grain colour (Fig. 4). Moderate frequency variants resulted only in culm branching. Among all qualitative traits, no variants were found for traits like the branching of lower raceme and grain shape. Similar results were also obtained for plant growth habits, pigmentation, culm branching, and branching of lower racemes (Joshi et al., 2015). Similar variation for various qualitative traits in barnyard millet (Renganathan et al., 2017; Nilavarasi et al., 2020) and in foxtail millet has been reported by Sapkota et al. (2016). \r\nThe cluster analysis of the eight accessions for eleven qualitative characters using the Unweighted Pair Group Method with Arithmetic Mean (UPGMA) method resulted in the grouping of accessions into 5 clusters while truncating the dendrogram tree similarity coefficient of 0.67 (Fig. 1) (Table 4). Cluster I has accustomed to the most prominent cluster with three accessions, and cluster II consists of 2 genotypes followed by III, IV, and V and with a single genotype. Similar results of solitary clusters were also reported by (Nilavarasi et al., 2020) in barnyard millet. The similarity matrix coefficient ranged from 52% to 97%, averaging 67%. Between 82% to 97% similarity, one major cluster formed, further divided into three minor clusters consisting of 7 genotypes, while clusters III, IV, and V include only a single genotype, indicating that wide variation was found among these genotypes. \r\n \r\nHence the diverse genotypes can be easily identified. Similar findings for genetic diversity were also concluded by (Tiwari et al., 2017; Neeru et al., 2017; Mishra et al., 2021) in Indian mustard and soybean.','Nishi Mishra, Sharad Tiwari, Swapnil Sapre, Sushma Nema, Vinod Kumar Sahu, Keerti Tantwai and Prakash Narayan Tiwari (2022). Qualitative characterization and Categorization of Barnyard Millet (Echinochloa spp.) Accession, Collected from different Regions of India. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 14(3): 928-932.'),(5392,'136','Study on the Effectiveness of Telugu Farm Magazines in Telangana State','G.D. Neeraja, S. Chandra Shekar and M. Jagan Mohan Reddy','158 Study on the Effectiveness of Telugu Farm Magazines in Telangana State G. D. Neeraja.pdf','',1,'The printed materials like farm periodicals, newspapers, leaflets, folders, journals are regarded as the important source of agricultural information for literate farmers and also for the farmers who passively get benefit from it. Increase in literacy rate in the country offers new prospects and promises for the utilization of printed literature as a source of information on Agricultural technologies. Even though the farmers are getting agricultural information from different sources, there is a lot of confusion about credibility of the information, as the source of that bunch of information is anonymous. Farmers have faith in print sources of information as it comes from credible source and contains the name of the source. There is an evidence of high use of magazines by seeing the circulation of copies. The present study is emphasized on understanding the effectiveness of two prominent Telugu farm magazines namely, Annadata and Vyavasayam. The study revealed that among the selected 6 indicators, cost-effectiveness has been ranked first in both the magazines followed by titles as attractive in Vyavasayam whereas, illustrations and tables were effective in Annadata and the least effective component in both the magazines was usefulness of topics covered. Z-test analysis reveals that there was a significant difference in the titles, content, illustrations and tables and usefulness of topics covered between Vyavasayam and Annadata farm magazines whereas no significant difference in format and cost component.','Annadata, Vyavasayam, Effectiveness, components of effectiveness, agricultural information','From the following results, it can be concluded that the readers perceived of Annadata magazine highly effective compared to Vyavasayam magazine. The readers don’t mind paying higher prices for the magazines and ranked cost effectiveness component first by the usefulness of the topics covered was ranked last as the content they were providing insufficient and more useful topics were given less importance. The significant difference was seen only between effectiveness of titles, content, illustrations and tables and usefulness of topics covered between the Annadata and Vyavasayam farm magazine whereas, there was no significant difference in format and cost effectiveness component. Both the magazines were playing a significant role in dissemination of agricultural information but there is a wide scope for increasing the effectiveness of Vyavasayam magazine. The magazines should concentrate on providing timely and adequate information and profit and market oriented content should be focussed more to provide effective information through farm magazines.','INTRODUCTION\r\nThe farm magazines are regarded as the important source of agricultural information for literate farmers and also for the farmers who passively get benefit from it. Increase in literacy rate in the country offers new prospects and promises for the utilization of printed literature as a source of information on Agricultural technologies. In Telangana urban literacy rate is 23.4 percentage points higher than rural literacy, and Andhra Pradesh, where the difference is 19.2 percentage points. (NSO, 2019). According to the Indian Readership Survey for Q1 of 2019 the penetration of dailies in urban India remained the same as it was in 2017, which is 53 per cent. However, in rural India it grew from 31 per cent to 32 per cent. Even though the transfer of agricultural information through the internet and electronic media is going hype, the credibility of information is high for magazines when compared to electronic media. In order to provide users with quality and timely information, and make them believe in the farm magazines, it is necessary to maintain the credibility of information as well as information providers. The effectiveness of farm magazines depends on the attitude and perception of readers towards farm magazines and its components. Therefore, to study the perception of readers towards farm magazines and compare the effectiveness of two farm magazines namely Vyavasayam and Annadata published by Professor Jayashankar Telangana State Agricultural University and private agency (Eenadu publications) were selected respectively for the study. The study was concentrated on assessing the effectiveness as perceived by readers and comparing the different components of effectiveness of both the farm magazines.\r\nMETHODOLOGY\r\nThe state of Telanagana with three agro-climatic zones (Northern, Central and Southern Telangana zones) waspurposively chosen for the study. From each zone, one district namely, Warangal from Central Telangana zone, Nagar kurnool from Southern Telangana zone and Jagtial from Northern Telangana zone were selected purposively.Two prominent Telugu farm magazines which are having wide circulation in the state were selected for the study.List of subscribers for the selected two magazines were collected from the respective publishing agencies for the selected districts. From the list 120 respondents are selected by simple random sampling method. In order to satisfy the required number of sample size and keeping in view the principles of statistics from each magazine 60 respondents were selected for the study for each magazine i.e., 20 from each of the selected three districts. Thus constitute 120 respondents for the study. Structured interview schedule comprising of 6 components namely, format, title, content, illustration and tables, cost effectiveness and usefulness of topics covered (Savaliya, 2008) and measured on 5 point continuum namely, highly satisfied, moderately satisfied, satisfied, least satisfied and not satisfied with the weight of 5, 4, 3, 2 and 1 respectively. After combining the total score of the respondents of each magazine separately, the data of both the respondents was pooled and then categorized into low, medium and high category separately and accordingly the components were ranked. Later based on their obtained scores comparison was made among the Vyavasayam and Annadata farm magazines. The effectiveness scores of each component were subjected to Z-test analysis to study the significant difference between different components of two magazines.\r\nRESULTS AND DISCUSSION\r\nThe results in the Table 1 indicated that, the readers of Vyavasayam magazine were mostly satisfied with the colour and design of cover page (4.82 in the format component. Annadata readers were satisfied with colour and design of cover page (4.8) and less satisfied with quality of papers inside the farm magazine (3.97). \r\nThe readers of vyavasayam magazine were highly satisfied with the relevancy of caption (4.83) and less satisfied with relevancy of subtitles (4.43 in the title component. In case of Annadata magazine readers relevancy of caption (4.83) ranked first and title font (4.3) ranked last (V). Vyavasayam magazine was slightly more effective in title component compared to Annadata magazine because Vyavasayam magazine publishers were using catchy titles and title font which attracted the interested of readers.\r\nVyavasayam readers ranked credibility of the messages (4.8) first in the content component and novelty (3.08) and adequacy (2.87) of messages ranked second last (XIII) and last (XIV). In case of Annadata magazine, readers ranked relevancy of messages to season (4.72) first and market orientation of messages (3.58) last (XIII). Vyavasayam magazine was less effective in content component compared to Vyavasayam magazine because the farmers might have felt that the content was not new and it has been repeated. If the content aspects are not relevant, timely and inadequate, then the other components also will not be liked by readers.\r\nThe readers of vyavasayam magazine ranked usefulness of illustrations and tables (4.62) first and size of illustrations and tables (4.23) last (VII). Annadata readers ranked relevancy of illustrations (4.77) first and clarity of illustrations (4.06) last (VII). Annadata magazine was slightly more effective in illustrations and tables component compared to Vyavasayam magazine because the readers might have felt that Annadata magazine was using attractive, relevant and compatible illustrations compared to Vyavasayam.\r\nThe readers of vyavasayam magazine were satisfied with affordability of the magazine (4.83) followed by value for money (4.65). Same was seen in the case of Annadata magazine (4.92, affordability; 4.7, value for money). Annadata magazine was slightly more effective in cost effectiveness component compared to Vyavasayam magazine.\r\nThe readers of Vyavasayam magazine ranked content on crop production (4.78) first and weather information (2.68 and food and nutrition aspects (2.07) second last (XV) and last (XVI) in the order of ranking whereas, in case of Annadata magazine, the readers ranked horticulture (4.77) first and weather information (2.5) and food and nutrition aspects (2.17) second last (XIV) and last (XV) respectively. Annadata magazine was effective in usefulness of topics covered component compared to Vyavasayam magazine as the readers of Vyavasayam magazine might have felt that the Vyavasayam publishers were not providing enough information on post-harvest management and value addition, animal husbandry and farm machinery due to their mandate or other information constraints and the information was inadequate on these aspects.\r\nIt is clear from the Table 2 that the readers of Vyavasayam were highly satisfied with the cost effectiveness of the farm magazine followed by titles, format, illustrations and tables, content and usefulness of content covered in the order of ranking whereas, Annadata readers were highly satisfied with the cost effectiveness followed by illustrations and tables, titles, format, content and usefulness of content covered. Cost effectiveness was ranked first in both the magazines. This indicated the importance of provision of qualitative information at affordable prices and the readers don’t mind paying money for getting quality information. Whereas content and usefulness of topics covered ranked last and second last respectively. The reason might be less market orientation of the messages, old repeated information and inadequate information on various items like market intelligence, animal husbandry ad extension and government schemes. Hence more information on these aspects needs to be provided so that the content will be more useful to the readers.\r\nFrom the data in the Table 3 it can be seen that majority (50.00 %) of the vyavasayam readers perceived the magazine as moderately effective followed by highly effective (30.0 %) and less effective (20.00%). The results were on par with results of Parmar and Kumar (2020). Majority (58.3 %) of the Annadata readers perceives the farm magazine as highly effective (58.33 %) followed by moderately effective (30.00 %) and less effective (11.66 %). It can be concluded from the above table that Annadata magazine was perceived as highly effective compared to Vyavasayam magazine. The results were in collaboration with Archana (2013).\r\nIt can be observed from the table 4. that there was a significant difference in the effectiveness of titles, content, illustrations and tables and usefulness of topics covered between the Annadata and Vyavasayam farm magazine whereas, there was no significant difference in format and cost effectiveness component of farm magazines. No significant difference was seen because both the magazines were equally effective in the format component and providing magazines at competitive prices. \r\n','G.D. Neeraja, S. Chandra Shekar and M. Jagan Mohan Reddy (2022). Study on the Effectiveness of Telugu Farm Magazines in Telangana State. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 14(3): 933-937.'),(5393,'136','Organoleptic and Consumer Evaluation Studies of Jaggery Incorporated Millet-based Cakes','Khyati Joshi, B. Anila Kumari, E. Jyothsna and M. Tejashree','159 Organoleptic and Consumer Evaluation Studies of Jaggery Incorporated Millet-based Cakes Khyati Joshi.pdf','',1,'Value-added products hold a lot of potential in the market. In the present research, an attempt has been made to develop value-added cakes by using minor millets like little millet (Panicum sumatrense) and foxtail millet (Setaria italica) by enhancing their nutrient content by replacing sugar with jaggery. The developed cakes were analyzed for their organoleptic qualities to check their acceptance rate over the regular maida (refined flour) cakes. The sensory analysis results showed that all the prepared millet cakes were approved by the semi-trained panel members, also the acceptance rate of the cakes increased with the addition of jaggery. Millet cakes containing 100% jaggery were highly accepted by the panelists and were selected as final formulations for further studies. The final cakes were subjected to consumer evaluation. The results showed a positive attitude of the consumers towards the developed cakes. Little millet jaggery cake was preferred over foxtail millet cake by most consumers. About 54% of the consumers wanted to purchase the cake daily. Almost two-thirds of the consumers (69%) reported that the major reason for preferring jaggery over sugar was health consciousness. Consumers appreciated the development of such products as these products are abundant in nutrients and also have functional benefits. The consumption of these millet based products on a regular basis can help in providing optimal nutrition and mitigating many diseases.','Cakes, foxtail millet, jaggery, little millet, sensory evaluation','The present study was conducted to know about the perception of the consumers towards the developed cakes, and to generalize whether the developed cakes were accepted among the people or not. In view of that, sensory evaluation and consumer acceptance studies were conducted which showed a positive attitude of the people towards the developed products. \r\nThus, it can be concluded that the development of millet-based products can be beneficial from the consumer’s point of view as well. These products are healthy, attractive and capable of attracting a huge percentage of consumers. With the increasing risk of malnutrition and lifestyle diseases, the development of millet-based products is a healthy initiative.\r\n','INTRODUCTION\r\nMillets are the powerhouse of many nutrients. These are found to be more nutritious and can be used as a replacement for regular cereals like wheat, rice and maize. Regular consumption of millets can be helpful to maintain good health. Millets are grown in several parts of the world. These low-maintenance crops require fewer inputs and are adapted to adverse conditions like extreme weather, alkaline soil, drought, etc., thus making them environment-friendly (Saxena et al., 2018; Asrani et al., 2021). Millets are widely grown in the Asian and African continents and India is the largest producer of millet crops across the world (Banerjee and Maitra 2020). The storage time of millet crops is also higher. Thus, these crops can be effectively used during emergencies like famines and can help to mitigate the problem of food scarcity (Amadou et al., 2013). \r\nMillets are highly abundant in nutrient content, especially micro-nutrients. On the basis of grain size, millets can be classified into major and minor millets. When compared to major millets, minor millets are used in a less frequent basis. Little millet (Panicum sumatrense) and foxtail millet (Setaria italica) are two such important minor millet crops that are cultivated by humankind from time immemorial. Both millets belong to the Poaceae family. Due to the corresponding warming and cooling effects that both millets have on the body, foxtail millet is referred to as “warm food” and little millet as “cool food” (Pradeep and Sreerama 2018).\r\nFoxtail millet, also called as Italian millet, is largely cultivated in Asian countries like India and China. In India, it is known by various names in various languages, such as Kakum in Hindi, Korra in Telugu and Tenai in Tamil (Sunil et al., 2016). Foxtail millet contains a sufficiently good amount of protein (11.13 to 18.75%) and fiber (210 g/kg) content. As compared to other cereals, the carbohydrate content of foxtail millet is generally low (Sachdev et al., 2021). Additionally, foxtail millet contains a high amount of thiamine (0.59 mg/100 g), vitamin E (31 mg/100 g) and phosphorous (422 mg/100 g). It also contains other minerals like zinc and iron (Bandyopadhyay et al., 2017). Foxtail millet contains certain phytochemicals and exhibits antioxidant and antiproliferative activity. The millet grain phenolics contain ferulic acid, chlorogenic acid, xanthophylls, etc., which deactivates free radicals and thus, protects the body from cellular damage (Zhang and Liu 2015). \r\nLittle millet is known as ‘kutki’ in Hindi and ‘samalu’ in Telugu (Patel et al., 2020). It has an excellent nutrient profile which includes about 7.7 g of protein, 7.6 g of crude fibre, 4.7 g of fat and 1.5 g of minerals. The micronutrients like iron and calcium are also present in good percentages in the little millet, i.e., 9.3 mg and 17 mg respectively (Gopalan et al., 2010). Apart from these, other micronutrients like phosphorous (220 mg), zinc (116 mg), magnesium (2.97 g/kg), carotenoids (78 μg/100 g), tocopherol (1.3 mg/100 g) and niacin (3.2 mg) are present as well in the millet. The fat content of little millet is rich in PUFA (Polyunsaturated fatty acid) and the starch content is comparatively lower than other cereals (Bhat et al., 2018; Chauhan et al., 2018; Pasha et al., 2018; Dey et al., 2022). \r\nLittle millet is also found to exhibit positive effects in the body. It contains a good amount of dietary fiber, which in turn is beneficial for gut health. The composition of dietary fiber was reported as 29.48% of insoluble and 1.33% of soluble dietary fiber (Chauhan et al., 2018). Little millet also contains many phytonutrients like gallic acid, vanillic acid, caffeic acid, ferulic acid, etc. and it also possesses radical scavenging activity (Saleh et al., 2013). \r\nThe products made by incorporating foxtail and little millet hold a lot of potential in the market. Due to the increasing awareness of the benefits of consuming millets among people, their attitude towards millets is changing. Now more and more people know about the benefits of consuming millets. Owing to this, it is necessary to know the perception of the common mass in order to decide the success rate of any product. In this regard, evaluation techniques like sensory evaluation, consumer acceptance studies, etc., are conducted which provide the base to approve or deny any product. Thus, the current research is focused on the “Organoleptic and consumer evaluation studies of jaggery incorporated millet-based cakes”.\r\nMATERIALS AND METHODS\r\nThe present research was conducted at Millet Processing and Incubation Center (MPIC) and Post Graduate and Research Center (PGRC), Professor Jayashankar Telangana State Agricultural University, Rajendranagar, Hyderabad.\r\nDevelopment of cake. For the preparation of cake, the ingredients used were refined wheat flour, little millet flour, foxtail millet flour, sugar, sunflower oil, curd, milk, baking soda, baking powder and vanilla essence. Refined wheat flour was replaced in the proportions of 25%, 50%, 75% and 100% by each millet (separately), as mentioned in Table 1, while keeping other ingredients constant. One-one formulation of each millet was selected by sensory analysis for further studies. For the preparation of cakes, the steps followed are mentioned in Fig. 1.\r\nDevelopment of jaggery cake. In the selected formulations of millet cakes, sugar was replaced with jaggery in the proportions of 25%, 50%, 75% and 100%, as mentioned in Table 2, while other ingredients were kept constant.\r\nSimilar steps were followed for the preparation of jaggery cakes as mentioned in Fig. 1. The final formulations of jaggery cakes were selected by sensory evaluation.\r\nSensory analysis. Sensory analysis was done by a semi-trained panel of 15 members using a 9-point hedonic scale (Meilgaard et al., 1999). They compared all the formulated cakes and gave scores according to their perception. Statistical analysis was performed for the obtained responses and one cake formulation of each millet was selected for further research.\r\nConsumer evaluation studies. The final selected formulations were subjected to consumer evaluation studies. A structured questionnaire was developed in Google forms and the link was sent to the consumers after providing the cakes for evaluation. The questionnaire consisted of general information about the consumers and questions related to their perception and attitude towards the developed cakes. A total of 75 consumers were selected at random for the study (Chambers, 1994).\r\n \r\nRESULTS AND DISCUSSION\r\nSensory analysis of millet and jaggery cakes. The control cake with refined wheat flour (CTL) obtained the highest sensory scores amongst all the formulated cakes. As the incorporation of millet flour increased, the mean sensory score for each attribute decreased. FCS1 and LCS1 obtained the highest scores in all the parameters among foxtail millet and little millet cakes respectively. The least accepted formulations were FCS4 and LCS4. This can be due to the fact that higher millet incorporation brought about evident changes in the flavour and texture of the cakes. Moreover, due to the absence of gluten, the cakes became crumbly and couldn’t hold their shapes properly. Based on the analysis data, the selected formulations of millet cake for further analysis were FCS3 and LCS3. \r\nThe addition of jaggery in the cakes brought about positive changes in the texture and taste of the cakes. The mean scores for the jaggery cakes were above 7 (liked moderately), for all the formulations. The mean sensory scores for the formulations containing 100% jaggery, i.e., FCJ4 and LCJ4, ranged from 8.4 (appearance) to 7.73 (after taste) and 8.46 (appearance) to 7.4 (after taste) respectively. These formulations were more preferred by the panelists than other cakes for some parameters like texture, taste, etc. The differences in the mean sensory scores among the control and millet cakes are depicted in Fig. 2 and 3.\r\nA similar study was conducted to develop biscuits, cake and cookies by adding foxtail millet flour at 10, 20 and 30 percent levels by replacing wheat flour. The sensory evaluation was performed on the developed products and the results reveal that at 20 and 30 percent incorporation of millet flour, the products received good sensory scores (Shadang and Jaganathan 2014). In another study, germinated millet flour was used along with rice flour in various proportions to make gluten-free cakes. The samples with 50% millet flour had highly acceptable and significantly different sensory scores among all the prepared products (Nada et al., 2016). \r\nLamdande et al. (2018) reported that upon replacing sugar with jaggery in various proportions to develop muffins, the formulation containing 84% jaggery obtained acceptable quality parameters and were organoleptically more acceptable compared to other formulations.\r\nBeing good in texture, obtaining higher scores in sensory evaluation and taking the health point into consideration, the final selected cakes were FCJ4 and LCJ4. Consumer evaluation studies were conducted for these cakes so as to find out the success rate of these products among the people.\r\nConsumer evaluation. Consumer evaluation is necessary to know the attitude of the people about any product. It helps to ascertain whether a product will be approved in the market or not. The consumer acceptance study for the selected products was done including 75 participants, out of which 81% were females and the rest 19% were males, belonging to various age groups as mentioned in Fig. 4. \r\nThe participants tasted the products and rated them using a 5-point hedonic scale for various parameters including appearance, colour, flavour, taste, texture and overall acceptability. Both cakes received good scores for all the parameters. The average of the sensory scores for both cakes is presented in Fig. 5. \r\nAmong both the cakes, little millet cake (LCJ4) was preferred more by most of the consumers. It received higher scores for appearance (4.37), flavour (4.07), taste (4.19), texture (4.25) and overall acceptability (4.33), while the colour parameter of foxtail millet cake (FCJ4) obtained higher score (4.31) as compared to little millet cake (LCJ4) which obtained a score of 4.16.\r\nA study conducted by Mahalaxmi and Hemlatha (2018) to develop little millet based cookies by incorporating jaggery revealed similar results. The millet based cookies with organic jaggery replacing sugar in the ratio of 100:0 showed highly acceptable results in the sensory and consumer evaluation.\r\nConsumer’s responses towards likeness, cost, acceptance and benefits of the products. The consumers preferred the given cakes over the ones which are generally available in the market. The major reasons to prefer jaggery over sugar, as mentioned by the participants, are displayed in Figure 6. The majority of the consumers (69.3%) hailed health consciousness as the major factor followed by its nutritive value to replace sugar with jaggery.\r\nThe consumers further mentioned their frequency of buying the millet-based cakes. As mentioned in Fig. 7, about 54% of the participants wanted to buy the cakes once a week, whereas 13% and 28% of them wanted to buy them twice a week and monthly, respectively. \r\nParticipants agreed that the production of such products will be a healthy initiative as these products are nutrient-rich and suitable for all age groups. The consumers had an overall positive attitude towards the developed cakes.\r\nAzzizah and Handayani (2021) developed millet coffee cake by substituting regular flour with millet flour. The results showed that the consumers highly accepted the cake containing 50% millet flour. \r\n \r\n','Khyati Joshi, B. Anila Kumari, E. Jyothsna and M. Tejashree (2022). Organoleptic and Consumer Evaluation Studies of Jaggery Incorporated Millet-based Cakes. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 14(3): 938-943.'),(5394,'136','Effectiveness of Nutrition Education on Knowledge and Perceptions of Women on Anemia','R. Neela Rani, B. Spandana, T. Kamalaja and Swetha Kodali','160 Effectiveness of Nutrition Education on Knowledge and Perceptions of Women on Anemia R. Neela Rani.pdf','',1,'This study aims to determine the effectiveness of nutrition education intervention programme intervention on knowledge and perception levels of women. A sample of 300 respondents (15-49 years) selected for the study from five AICRP adopted villages. The respondents were categorized into experimental groups and control groups. Nutrition education intervention was given to the experimental group. The results revealed that after the intervention programme, there was a significant improvement in the mean scores of knowledge and perception levels. In the experimental group, after the nutrition education intervention, the majority of the respondents had medium knowledge (76.8%) and perception (73%) levels. The findings revealed nutrition education intervention had a good impact on improving knowledge and perception levels of women.','Anaemia, Nutrition education, Nutritional status, nutrition deficiencies and iron deficiency','Nutritional education interventions have been widely used for control anemia, iron deficiency and other non-communicable diseases at early ages. In the present study, the results revealed that after the intervention programme, there was a significant improvement in the mean scores of knowledge and perception levels. Hence it can be concluded that nutrition education intervention had a good impact on improving knowledge and perception levels of women. Future nutrition education practices should be conduct about dietary practices, beliefs, and should introduce new health and nutrition topics especially to the women and children in rural and tribal areas.','INTRODUCTION\r\nIron deficiency is the most important cause of anemia. According to World Health Organization (WHO) 42% of children less than 5 years of age and 40% of pregnant women worldwide are anemic. Global evidence shows that 56% of pregnant women in developing countries are anemic (Black et al., 2013). India is one of the countries with highest anemia prevalence. According to WHO estimates (2021), anemia affects 53% of women of reproductive age (15-49) in India. \r\nIt is a global public health problem that particularly affects young children and pregnant women. Anemia is more common in women of reproductive age (WRA) with low socio-economic status, are underweight, or have recently given birth. Adverse effects of anemia are seen in children, adolescents and in pregnant women mostly in developing countries where anemia is more prevalent (Kumar, 2014). The most common causes of anemia include nutritional deficiencies, particularly iron deficiency, though deficiencies in folate, vitamins B12 and A are also important causes; haemoglobinopathies; and infectious diseases, such as malaria, tuberculosis, HIV and parasitic infections. \r\nNutrition education programmes are the foundation and strategies for any program intended for nutritional improvement that could be used to improve the nutrition knowledge and attitudes of the public (Sunuwar et al., 2019; Adjei-Banuah et al., 2021). Research shows that appropriate nutrition intervention programmes has increased nutritional awareness, knowledge and practice levels. Effective nutrition education can decrease the occurrence ofchronic diseases, including obesity, type 2 diabetes, cardiovascular disease, and hypertension (Bhoge, 2016). Nutrition intervention programme showed a positive effect on students\' knowledge and attitude about iron deficiency anemia (Shakouri et al., 2009). \r\nGiven the significance of iron deficiency anemia prevention and the importance of nutrition education for women, the current study sought to determine the effectiveness of nutrition education on knowledge and perception levels of iron deficiency anemia among women of reproductive age.\r\n \r\nMETHODOLOGY \r\nA quasi-experimental (pretest-posttest control group) research design was selected for the study. The respondents were selected from the five adopted villages of Rangareddy district i.e. Gungal, Subhanpur, Amdapur, Edira and Kaslabad of All India Coordinated Research Project on Women in Agriculture (AICRP-WIA) from Hyderabad, India. A total of 300 respondents who are in reproductive age group (15-49 years) were chosen for the study. The respondents were categorized into experimental group and control group.A sample of 250 respondents was classified as the experimental group and 50 respondents as the control group.A structured questionnaire was used for the study. The nutrition education programme was conducted with only the experimental group over a period of 45 days. The intervention was instructed in the local language (Telugu) and checked by the experts for content validity. The intervention group and the control group, were provided with the posttest questionnaires to assess the impact of the nutrition education programme on knowledge, perception levels, but the control group did not undergo the educational program. Data analysis was performed using Microsoft excel and SPSS.\r\nRESULTS\r\nTable 1 presents the profile characteristics of the respondents. Out of the total population, 61.00% of the respondents belonged to 15-26 years of age group, 28.67% of the respondents had high school education, 32.00% of the respondents were housewives, 87.67% belonged to nuclear families, 76.00% had small family size, 52.33% had small land holding, 55.00% had low family income, 79.67% had medium mass media exposure, 64.33% had medium extension contact and 73.00% of the respondents indicated Asha workers as their information source.\r\nTable 2 presents the knowledge and perception levels of the respondents regards to anemia before and after intervention. Regarding knowledge, in the experimental group pre-test, 85.2% of the respondents had low knowledge levels about IDA, followed by medium (13.2%) and high (1.6%). In control group, 92% of the respondents had low knowledge about IDA, the remaining 8% had medium knowledge levels, and none of them had high knowledge levels. Discussions with the respondents revealed that, they had never heard about IDA, they were not aware of normal Hb levels, not aware of iron-rich foods and they were unaware of the signs, symptoms and consequences of IDA.\r\nIn terms of perception, 64.7% of respondents in the experimental group pre-test had low perceptions of IDA, followed by medium (32.1%) and high (3.2%). In the control group, 69.6% of respondents had a low perception of IDA, followed by 29% who had a medium perception and 1.4% who had a high perception. The majority of the respondents reported that they consume green leafy vegetables at least once a week. They wash their hands with soap before consuming food and after defecation.\r\nAfter the nutrition education intervention programme, there was a significant difference between the two groups in terms of knowledge and perception levels. In the experimental group, after the nutrition education intervention, the majority of the respondents (76.8%) had medium knowledge levels, followed by low (16.8%) and high (6.4%). This means after the intervention, they were aware of IDA, Hb levels, iron-rich foods, signs, symptoms and consequences of IDA etc. However, in the control group, the majority (90%) of the respondents had low knowledge levels, followed by medium (10%) and none of them had high knowledge levels.\r\nIn terms of perception, in the experimental group, the majority of the respondents (73%) had medium perception, followed by high (18.4%) and low (8.6%). In the control group, the majority (67%) of the respondents had a low level of perception about IDA, followed by medium (30%) and high (3%).\r\nThe results clearly indicate that after the nutrition education intervention programme, there was a significant improvement in the mean scores of knowledge and perception levels in the experimental group. Before the intervention programme the respondents had very limited knowledge regarding anemia in both experimental and control groups. During the intervention period, the experimental group screened for 30 minutes over 45 days (regarding anemia, signs & symptoms, food sources, balanced diet, and nutritive values of food items that are related to anemia) through different channels (Posters, flipcharts and lectures). In the experimental group, there was an increase in the mean scores of knowledge and perception levels, but there was no change in the control group. This clearly indicates that the nutrition education programme has influenced the respondents to consume more iron rich foods, and maintain good hygiene practices. Elsharkawy et al., (2022) indicated that after intervention there was a significant improvement in the mean scores of knowledge, food selection ability, compliance rate, and hemoglobin level for the intervention group than for the control group. Nutrition education initiatives have a good impact on improving nutritional health (María et al., 2011). Jalambo et al. (2018) revealed that nutritional education is an effective tool in improving hematocrit, Hb, serum ferritin levels and anemia status among adolescents. Sari et al. (2018) concluded that effective nutrition education raised the hemoglobin level and the girls’ knowledge score.\r\n','R. Neela Rani, B. Spandana, T. Kamalaja and Swetha Kodali (2022). Effectiveness of Nutrition Education on Knowledge and Perceptions of Women on Anemia. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 14(3): 944-947.'),(5395,'136','Efficacy of Fungicides and Bio Agents in Managing the Black Leaf Spot Disease of Cabbage caused by Alternaria brassicicola (Schw.) Wiltsh','Y. Rachel Glory, S. Narasimha Rao, T. Vijaya Lakshmi, E. Padma and R. Venugopalan','161 Efficacy of Fungicides and Bio Agents in Managing the Black Leaf Spot Disease of Cabbage caused by Alternaria brassicicola (Schw.) Wiltsh Y. Rachel Glory.pdf','',1,'Black leaf spot caused by Alternaria brassicicola is one of the destructive diseases of crucifers and causes considerable loss in terms of quantity and quality. The yield loss due to Alternaria was 5-30% in the entire cabbage growing areas of India. Hence, experiments were conducted to determine the efficacy of fungicides and bioagents both in vitro and in-vivo against A. brassicicola causing black leaf spot of cabbage. In vitro studies were carried out by using poisoned food technique in case of fungicides and dual culture technique for bioagents in completely randomized design. All the fungicides and bioagents significantly inhibited the mycelial growth. Among the test fungicides; hexaconazole, difenconazole and propiconazole @1000ppm; chlorothalonil @2000ppm and mancozeb @ 2500ppm were found significantly effective and inhibited the mycelial growth cent per cent. Among the bioagents; T. viride recorded significantly highest level of inhibition (76.84%) and caused lysis and mycoparasitism on A. brassicicola after 20 days of incubation. The treatments which were found effective under laboratory conditions were evaluated at field level by foliar application of each treatment at 15 days intervals for three times. Triazole compounds like hexaconazole, difenconazole and propiconazole reduced disease severity by 49.04, 41.81 and 35.87% and increased yield by 24.50, 19.71 and 12.57%, respectively. Hence, such effective fungicides could be used to minimize disease severity. Significant effect of some bioagents against pathogen growth suggests their application as alternatives to chemicals.','Alternaria brassicicola, Bioagents, Cabbage, Hexaconazole, T. viride','Black leaf spot of cabbage caused by different species of Alternaria is a foliar fungal disease causing yield loss both qualitatively and quantitatively. The pathogen infecting cabbage was isolated, proved its pathogenicity and identified as A. brassicicola based on cultural, morphological and molecular characteristics. The use of fungicides is still the most popular method for management of black leaf spot on crucifers due to no proven source of transferable resistance and is currently unavailable in any of the hosts. In the present study, fungicides belonging to triazole group proved to be effective in reducing the mycelial growth under laboratory conditions and decreased the disease severity by three times by spraying at an interval of 15 days immediately after appearance of disease under field conditions. The field data indicated that for every 1.0% increase in the disease severity, there is 0.9% decrease in the yield with 0.93 confident of R2.',' INTRODUCTION\r\nThe vegetables belonging to genus Brassica are often referred to as “cole crops” and comprises of cabbage, cauliflower, broccoli, kales, kohlrabi, etc. Cabbage (B. oleracea L. var. capitata) is grown as annual vegetable crop for its compact head which varies in shape from flat to long-oval out line (Nieuwhof, 1969).It was originated from a wild species B. oleracea var. oleracea (sylvestris L.), commonly known as wild cabbage or ‘Colewort’ (Balliu, 2014). \r\nCabbage production is affected by many fungal, bacterial and viral diseases at different stages of growth and development. Among fungal diseases; black leaf spot of cabbage may be caused by different Alternaria species viz.A. brassicicola (Schw.) Wiltsh., A. brassicae (Berk.) Sacc., A. alternata (Fr.) Kreissler and A. raphani (Groves and Skolko); (Kumar et al., 2014) and these casual organisms are responsible for significant yield losses (Verma and Saharan 1994) by reducing photosynthetic activity, accelerating senescence, defoliation, premature pod shatter and shriveled seed leading to considerable reduction in quality and quantity of yield products (Shresta et al., 2000; Kumar et al., 2014). The yield loss due to Alternaria was 5-30% in the entire cabbage growing areas of India (Pandey et al., 2002). Due tono proven source of resistance reported till date in any of the hosts (Meena et al., 2012) and also by continuous availability inoculum from numerous sources like seed, infected plant debris, collateral hosts etc., and wide range of spore dispersal (King, 1994), this disease is very difficult to manage. The use of fungicides is the most popular method for management of black leaf spot disease of cabbage. Hence, the present investigations were made in vitro and in vivo to find out the effective fungicide(s) and bioagents (s) against A. brassicicola causing black leaf spot disease of cabbage.\r\nMATERIAL AND METHODS\r\nThe experiments were carried out at Department of Plant Pathology as well as Instructional farm of College of Horticulture, Venkataramannagudem. Black leaf spot infected leaf samples were collected from farmer’s field and observed for the presence of the pathogen Alternaria. After assuring the presence of Alternaria spores, standard tissue isolation technique was followed for isolation from infected leaf tissues. Pathogen was purified by single spore isolation method and identified as A. brassicicola based on cultural, morphological and molecular characters by sequencing the ITS regions. The ITS sequence was deposited in NCBI GenBank and obtained accession number is OP161144.\r\nA. In vitro screening of fungal and bacterial bio-agents against A. brassicicola \r\nIn vitro efficacy of fungicides against A. brassicicola.\r\nIn vitro efficacy of seven fungicides viz., difenconazole 25% EC, hexaconazole 5% EC and propiconazole 25% EC @1000 ppm; captan 70% + hexaconazole 5% WP @ 1500 ppm; iprodione 50% WP and chlorothalonil 75%WP @2000 ppm and mancozeb 75% WP @ 2500 ppm was evaluated against A. brassicicola by poisoned food technique (Nene and Thapliyal 1993) on PDA medium. Requisite quantities of fungicides were calculated and solutions were prepared based on active ingredient, which were then added separately to the autoclaved, cooled (40°C) PDA in conical flasks just before pouring into Petri plates. Each poisoned PDA media was poured aseptically in Petri plates (90 mm dia.). After solidification, all the plates were inoculated aseptically and separately with five mm culture disc of A. brassicicola obtained from seven days old actively growing edges of pure culture placed at the centre of Petri plates. Petri plates containing plain PDA (without fungicide) inoculated with the test pathogen served as control. All the plates were incubated at 25±1°C. The experiment was designed in Completely Randomized Design (CRD) and all the treatments were replicated thrice. Observations of radial mycelial growth were recorded in all the treatment plates. Per cent inhibition of mycelial growth was calculated whenever Petri plate full growth of the test pathogen was observed in control plate by using the formula given by Vincent (1947). \r\n \r\nWhere, \r\nC = Diameter of fungal growth in control (mm) \r\nT = Diameter of fungal growth in treatment (mm)\r\nIn vitro bio efficacy of bioagents against A. brassicicola. In vitro evaluation of bio efficacy of bio-agents was carried out in CRD with seven treatments; containing four fungal (Trichoderma harzianum, T. viride, T. reesei and T. koningii) and two bacterial (Pseudomonas fluorescens and Bacillus subtilis) bioagents in three replications on PDA medium using dual culture method (Morton and Stroude 1955). Twenty ml of sterilised and cooled PDA medium was poured aseptically into 90 mm Petri plates and left to solidification. Five mm mycelial discs from the edges of seven days old culture of A. brassicicola as well as from fungal bioagents with the help of sterile cork borer were placed in opposite directions over the solidified PDA in such a way that the distance between each other was approximately 80 mm. In case of bacterial bioagents, the test pathogen was placed at one end of the Petri dish and pure cultures of bacterial bioagents were streaked with sterile inoculation loop at the centre. Control was maintained by inoculating A. brassicicola at the centre of Petri plate. The inoculated Petri plates were incubated in an incubator at 25 ± 1°C. Antagonistic activity, zone of inhibition and nature of parasitism were recorded. Per cent inhibition was calculated using the formula of Vincent (1947). \r\nB. In vivo evaluation of fungicides and bioagents \r\nThe fungicides and bioagents that showed effective growth inhibition under in vitro were selected to assess their efficacy under field conditions during Rabi crop season of 2021-2022 at Experimental plots of COH, V.R Gudem. Experiment was laid out in Randomized Block Design (RBD) with three replications and nine treatments including control. Five fungicides viz., propiconazole, hexaconazole, difenconazole @0.1%; mancozeb @0.25; chlorothalonil @0.2%; two fungal and one bacterial bioagents viz., T. viride, T. harzianum@106 cfu/ml and B. subtilis 108 cfu/ml were used. \r\nField preparation was carried out during the first week of October 2021-2022 and experimental block was divided into 27 plots and twenty one days old seedlings of cabbage (Golden boll) were transplanted at a spacing of 60 × 45 cm separately on 15th October 2021 at optimum soil moisture level. Each treatment was maintained in three rows consisting of 15 plants per row. All the recommended practices for cultivation of cabbage were followed as per the package of practices of Dr YSR Horticultural University, Andhra Pradesh in order to raise healthy crop. \r\nSpore suspension of A. brassicicola containing inoculum load of 1 × 106 spores/ ml was sprayed over the foliage at 25 days after transplanting (DAT) on cabbage (Sailaja et al., 2017). First spray of the treatments was done immediately after appearance of disease symptoms on lower and upper leaves and subsequently two sprays were followed at 15 days interval between sprays. Disease severity was assessed on 35, 50 and 65 DAT using 0-5 scale (0= no infection, 1= less than 5% leaf area infected, 2= 5-10% leaf area infected, 3= 10-25% leaf area infected, 4= 25-50% leaf area infected, 5= more than 50% leaf area infected (Sangeetha and Siddaramaiah 2007). Ten plants were selected randomly per each treatment, for disease assessment. Per cent Disease Index (PDI) by McKinney (1923) and Area under Disease Progress Curve (AUDPC) by Jerger (2004) were calculated for all the treatments. Heads were harvested separately for each treatment after attaining the maturity and yield of net plot was recorded in terms of kg and later expressed in t/ ha.\r\nRESULTS AND DISCUSSION\r\nA. In vitro evaluation of fungicides and bioagents against A. brassicicola\r\nEvaluation of fungicides against A. brassicicola. A total of eight treatments with seven fungicides viz., hexaconazole, difenconazole and propiconazole @ 1000 ppm, captan + hexaconazole @1500ppm, chlorothalonil and iprodione @2000ppm and mancozeb@ 2500ppm were evaluated under in vitro conditions against A. brassicicola by poisoned food technique. All the tested fungicides significantly inhibited the mycelial growth over the control and the results presented in Table 1 reveals that each fungicide at specified concentration showed varied levels of per cent inhibition.\r\nAmong the fungicides tested, cent per cent inhibition of mycelial growth of A. brassicicola was observed in hexaconazole, propiconazole, difenconazole @1000ppm, chlorothalonil @2000ppm and mancozeb @2500ppm. The next best treatment in inhibiting the mycelial growth was captan + hexaconazole @1500ppm (75.89%) and the lowest per cent inhibition (30.46%) was shown by iprodione @2000ppm (Fig. 1).\r\nThe triazole group of fungicides like hexaconazole, propiconazole, difenconazoleact on one specific enzyme i.e. C14- demethylase, which plays a key role in sterol biosynthesis. Sterols such as ergosterol is essential for the cell membrane structure and function. It is essential for the development of functional cell walls. Mancozeb being multisite inhibitor effects lipid metabolism, respiration and production of ATP and interferes with enzymes containing sulphydryl groups, disrupting different biochemical process within the fungal cell cytoplasm and mitochondria.\r\nThese results are in accordance with the findings of several earlier workers. Fungicides viz., propiconazole, difenconazole and hexaconazole used by Hossain and Main (2004); Gaikwad (2013); Tu et al. (2015), Pratima et al. (2017), mancozeb by Singh et al. (2017) and chlorothalonil by Tu and Somasekhara (2015) on inhibition of mycelial growth of A. brassicicola. \r\nBio efficacy of bioagents against A. brassicicola. Seven treatments comprising of four fungal bioagents, two bacterial bioagents and one untreated control were evaluated by using dual culture technique against A. brassicicola. Results presented in Table 2 and Fig 2. revealed the significant effect on mycelial growth inhibition. The bio agents inhibit the growth of the pathogen either by over growing or by formation of inhibition zone. Evaluations against A. brassicicola showed that T. viride was highly efficient by inhibiting (76.84%) of mycelial growth, followed by T. harzianum (64.90%) and both were significantly different with each other. The lowest inhibition was shown by T. reesei (31.24%). The growth inhibition noticed in case of bacterial bio agents were; B. subtilis (58.56%) and P. fluorescens (52.87%). The fungal bioagents showed mycoparasitism by causes the lysis of mycelium of A. brassicicola after 20 days of incubation (Fig. 3).\r\nThe antagonistic activity of Trichoderma spp. is mainly due to antibiosis by production of volatile components and non-volatile antibiotics could be possible cause of antagonism, competition for nutrients and niche competitions and also by the secretion of extracellular cell degrading enzymes such as chitinase, β-1,3-glucanase, cellulose, lectin and other secondary metabolites such as glioviridin, viridin and gliotoxin which may help mycoparasites in colonization of host. The results obtained were in line with the findings of Ahmad and Ashraf (2016), who found the bio efficacy of T. viride, T. harzianum, T. hamatum, T. koningii, T. reesei on growth inhibition. Similar findings were noticed by Jackson and Kumar (2019) and Pun et al (2020) on A. brassicicola.\r\nMycelial growth inhibition of A. brassicicola by P. fluorescens and B. subtilis through direct antagonism of phytopathogens and siderophores was observed. These results are in accordance with Khalse et al. (2017). \r\nB. In vivo evaluation of effective fungicides and bioagents against black spot disease \r\nOn the basis of in vitro antifungal activity of fungicides and bio-agents, effective treatments were selected and applied as foliar sprays at 15 days intervals. The results obtained by applying various treatments in managing black leaf spot disease severity, AUPDC and yields were recorded and presented in Table 3.\r\nA total of three spraying schedules of each treatment was planned. The first spraying was given 30 DAT. Data obtained revealed that all the treatments numerically influenced the per cent disease index of black leaf spot and significantly effective in managing the disease. The disease was found to be appeared at about 30 DAT and later increased steadily up to second spraying and slightly less increase was observed thereafter. Per cent disease index showed significant difference between sprayed and un-sprayed plots at 65 DAT (Terminal PDI). \r\nFrom the Table 3, it was evident that all the treatment options were significantly superior over control and reduced the per cent disease index. The terminal PDI ranged from 37.41 to 68.66%, while 73.41% was observed in control plot. Among the treatments, hexaconazole and difenconazole were significantly superior over rest of the treatment and controlled the disease by recording lowest PDI values of 37.41 and 42.72%, respectively and were at par with each other. The next best treatment in controlling the black leaf spot was propiconazole with PDI of 47.08%andwas significantly superior to the rest of the fungicides and bioagents. In case of bioagents, PDI ranged from 61.48 to 68.66%. Lowest PDI was observed in T. harzianum sprayed plot whereas the highest PDI was observed in B. subtilis, which significantly differ with each other.\r\nThe relative influence of disease development was assessed by AUDPC. The mean severity was used to calculate the AUDPC and results were furnished in Table 3. The increase in disease severity throughout the assessment days indicated the spread of disease in space and time. The data showed variation in spread of disease among fungicides. Highest AUDPC values 958.90%-days were observed from the control plots, whereas, the lowest AUDPC values 418.90%-days and 498.55%-days were recorded from hexaconazole and difenconazole sprayed plots, respectively. Similarly in case of bioagents, lowest and highest AUPDC was recorded in T. harzianum (779.95%-days) and B. subtilis (887.60%-days), respectively.\r\nWith respect to reduction of disease over control, among the fungicides; hexaconazole showed superiority with highest reduction of disease (49.04%). This was followed by difenconazole (41.81%) and propiconazole (35.87%). Among the bio agents; T. harzianum was effective in reducing the disease severity (16.25%) followed by T. viride (13.89%).\r\nThe results of field experiment (Table 3) on cabbage revealed that, all the treatments were significantly effective and reduced the disease severity and there by increased the yield compared to untreated check (control). Significant differences were found among the treatments regarding the efficacy of fungicides and bio-agents on yields. Yield (t/ha) ranged from 14.56 to 17.43 in other treatments and 14.00t/ha was recorded in control plot. Plots that were sprayed with hexaconazole, difenconazole and propiconazole recorded significantly highest yields viz., 17.43, 16.76 and 15.76 t/ha, respectively and these three treatments were at par with each other and the remaining treatments both fungicides and bioagents were also at par with each other.\r\nThe computed relative yield losses showed notable differences among treatments. Yield losses were highly reduced by fungicide sprayed plots as compared to the bio-agents. Lowest yield loss was recorded indifenconazole (3.84%) followed by propiconazole (9.58%). The remaining treatments recorded relative yield losses more than 12.00%.\r\nCorrelation and regression between yield and disease parameter. Correlation and regression analysis were worked-out to know the relationship between yield and disease severity. The results revealed that, highly significant negative correlation exist between yield and per cent disease index (0.965**). The linear correlation between per cent disease index and yield showed negative correlation (R2 = 0.99) (Fig. 4). Obviously, the yield was decreased with the increase in per cent disease index. Accordingly, regression equation was developed between per cent disease index and yield. A linear negative correlation between yield and PDI was observed representing the best fit having R2 = 93.5. [Y=219.41-10.62(x)].\r\nApplication of bio-control agents like T. harzianum, P. fluorescens and B. subtilis initiates number of biochemical changes, which triggers plant defense responses (Verma and Saharan 1994). Loganathan (2002) reported that induction of defense related proteins viz., phenylalanine ammonia lyase, peroxidase, polyphenol oxidase, phenol, chitinase and β 1-3- glucanase were found to be in higher levels in treatments involving bio-formulation mixture containing P. fluorescens against fungal pathogens and root knot nematodes in cabbage and cauliflower. Saikia et al. (2004) reported that P. fluorescens has different mechanisms to reduce plant diseases such as accumulation of phenolic compounds, increasing activity of PAL, PR-proteins and lysis of the fungal pathogen cell wall by secretion of extra cellular lytic enzymes.\r\nEfficacy of these fungicides in controlling black spot and increasing the yields were supported by the findings of Prasad (2014); Chavan et al. (2015); Tu et al. (2015); Kiran et al. (2018); Jackson and Kumar (2019); Meena et al. (2020) on cabbage. The effect of Trichoderma spp. and bacterial bioagents on black leaf spot on various crucifers in controlling the disease severity and increase in yield were found by Singh et al. (2015); Ahmad and Ashraf (2016); Khalse et al. (2017); Raghuvanshi et al. (2018). ','Y. Rachel Glory, S. Narasimha Rao, T. Vijaya Lakshmi, E. Padma and R. Venugopalan (2022). Efficacy of Fungicides and Bio Agents in Managing the Black Leaf Spot Disease of Cabbage caused by Alternaria brassicicola (Schw.) Wiltsh. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 14(3): 948-954.'),(5396,'136','Effect of Sowing Dates and Spacing on Alternaria Blight of Mustard and Economics of Cultivation','Sanjeet Kumar C.S. Choudhary, A.K. Mishra, T. Alam, R.K. Choudhary, M. Kumar and B. Rai','162 Effect of Sowing Dates and Spacing on Alternaria Blight of Mustard and Economics of Cultivation Sanjeet Kumar.pdf','',1,'Leaf blight of mustard incited by A. brassicae (Berk.) Sacc., is a devastating disease prevalent everywhere in India and the world which causes up to 47 % yield loss without any confirmed source of transferable resistance till date. This disease damages mostly foliage and pods of the brassica crop resulting into severe deterioration in yield of seed and oil content both, which ultimately lowers the farmers income and contribute into shortage of the edible oil in the country. Considering its seriousness and non-availability of resistant variety, the present investigations were accomplished to study the effect of cultural methods viz. Sowing dates and spacings on the disease severity, yield and economics of cultivation during two consecutive crop season of Rabi 2020-21 and 2021-22. The study was conducted at TCA Dholi under split plot design with three replicates accommodating four dates of sowing from 15th October to 15th November at 10 days interval as main plots and four spacings viz. 30 × 10 cm, 30 × 20 cm, 45 × 20 cm and 60 x 20 cm as sub plots. The result revealed that delayed sowing resulted into rapid enhanced of the disease severity, reduction of test weight of seed and seed yield. Widening of spacing resulted into slight reduction of the disease severity, enhancement of test weight of seed but decreased the seed yield of mustard crop due to large reduction of optimum plant density. The maximum yield (1865.50 kg ha-1) was obtained in 15th October sown crop at 30 × 10 cm spacing followed by (1831.50 kg ha-1) at 30 × 20 cm spacing both of which were at par, and the minimum yield (936.50 kg ha-1) was obtained in 15th November sown at 60 × 20 cm2, but yield of 1043 kg ha-1 was obtained in 15th November sown crop at 30 × 10 cm spacing. The successive 10 days delay in sowing of mustard from 15th October to 15th November, increased the days to attain 50 % flowering by 8 days from 58 days to 66 days but shortened the days to attain physiological maturity by 12 days from 148 to 136 days, thereby reducing the reproductive phase by 20 days from 90 to 70 days which coupled with increased disease severity on leaves as well as on pods at the most vulnerable stage of crop, lead into heavy reduction of yield (from 1866 to 1043 kg/ha), net return (from Rs. 87620 to Rs. 38010 per ha) and Benefit: Cost ratio (from 3.04 to 2.09).','Sowing dates, Spacing, Alternaria blight, Mustard, PDI, B:C Ratio','The result clearly revealed that delayed sowing resulted into rapid enhanced of the severity of Alternaria blight on leaves and pod at the most susceptible stage of crop and thereby gradual reduction of test weight of seed and seed yield, and widening of spacing resulted into slight reduction of the disease severity, enhancement of test weight of seed but decreased the seed yield of mustard crop. The maximum yield (1865.50 kg ha-1) was obtained in 15th October sown crop at 30 × 10 cm spacing followed but at par by (1831.50 kg ha-1) at 30 × 20 cm spacing and minimum yield of 1043 kg ha-1 was obtained in 15th November sown crop at 30×10 cm spacing. Result also indicate that successive 10 days delay in sowing of mustard from 15th October to 15th November increased the days to attain 50 % flowering from 58 days to 66 days but shortened the days to attain physiological maturity from 148 to 136 days, thereby reducing the reproductive phase from 90 to 70 days which coupled with increased disease severity on leaves as well as on pods during the most vulnerable stage of crop, lead into heavy reduction of yield (from 1866 to 1043 kg/ha), net return (from Rs. 87620 to Rs. 38010 per ha) and Benefit: Cost ratio (from 3.04 to 2.09).\r\n','INTRODUCTION\r\nRapeseed-Mustard are globally known as “Oilseed brassica”, which holds the status of the third most important oilseed crop after soyabean and palm with the production of about 72 MT from about 35 m ha area. In terms of area and production, India stands third place after Canada and China, and fifth place in terms of productivity after Germany, France, Canada and China (Jat et al., 2019). It is grown all over India in both tropical and subtropical regions covering 6.23 m ha of area producing 9.34 MT with 1499 kg/ha average productivity. In India, Rajasthan stands the first in its production covering the area of 2.37 m ha producing 4.08 MT with the average productivity of 1720 kg/ha. Bihar produces 0.11 MT from an acreage of 0.08 m ha with average productivity of 1305 kg/ha (Anonymous, 2019). In India, rapeseed mustard shares 23.5% area and 24.2% production of total oilseeds in the country. Despite being the third largest producer (11.3%) of oilseed brassica in the world, India meets 57% of the domestic edible oil requirements through imports and ranked 7th largest importer of edible oils in the world (Jat et al., 2019). Rapeseed-mustard is the major source of income especially to the marginal and small farmers in rainfed areas. This group of oilseed crops is gaining wide acceptance among the farmers because of adaptability for both irrigated as well as rainfed areas and suitability for sole as well as mixed cropping. Since these crops are cultivated mainly in the rain-fed and resource scarce growing regions of the country, their contribution to livelihood security of the small and marginal farmers in these regions is also highly significant. \r\nIndian mustard (Brassica juncea L.) is widely cultivated in Indian sub-continent due to its inherent high yield and edible oil content potential besides its relative tolerance to bioticandabiotic stresses. Productivity of the crop, in the country is low due to a number of foliar diseases, viz., Alternaria blight, white rust, downy mildew and powdery mildew, among which, Alternaria blight incited by Alternaria brassicae (Berk.) Sacc. is the most important and devastating disease. It has been reported to cause variable losses in yield, depending upon disease severity. Yield loss tothe extent of 47 per cent has been reported (Chattopadhyay et al., 2005; Meena et al., 2010). Alternaria blight disease caused by A. brassicae are found everywhere in rape seed-mustard cropping are as and decrease15-71percentinproductivity, 14-36 percent in oil content (Meena et al., 2010). The fungus, not only leads to yield reduction by causing foliar damage to the crop, but also damages siliqua in pod formation stage, severely deteriorating both seed and oil yield. (Choudhary et al., 2018). \r\nA number of fungicides have been recommended for effective control of this disease but the spraying of fungicides in standing crop is practically difficult, uneconomical and no teco-friendly. Identification of suitable sowing dates and spacing can be a better cultural method to minimize the yield loss by escaping the disease and maximizing the yield.\r\nIn the context of paramount importance of this disease of mustard crop, indiscriminate use of pesticide causing environmental pollution and pesticide residue in the food, urgent need of non-chemical method to avoid or minimize the disease severity at most susceptible age of crop, the present investigation, focused to evaluate the effect of sowing dates and spacings on these verity of Alternaria blight disease on leaf and pod, test weight, yield and economics of cultivation of Indian mustard has been conducted. Relationship between the period of reproductive phase of the crop with disease severity, seed yield and benefit: cost ratio, has also been worked out.\r\nMATERIALS AND METHODS\r\nThe field experiment for management strategies of the Alternaria blight disease were carried in the experimental field of the Department of Plant Pathology at Tirhut College of Agriculture (T C A) Dholiunder Dr. Rajendra Prasad Central Agricultural University Pusa, Bihar during two consecutive Rabi crop season of 2020-21 and 2021-22. Geographically, the Dholi farm is located between 25°98 north latitude and 85°60 east longitude in the Indo- Gangetic plain of Bihar at an altitude of 52.18 meters above mean sea level. The experimental plot had a fairly uniform topography and the soil was deep, fertile, sandy loam, light, low in organic carbon, available nitrogen and potassium, and medium in phosphorus and well drained. Widely and popularly grown, Varuna variety of Indian mustard (Brassica juncea L.) highly susceptible to Alternaria leaf blight was used.\r\nThe experiments were laid out in split plot design with 3 replicates employing four spacings viz. 30 × 10 cm (S1), 30 × 20 cm (S2), 45 × 20 cm (S3) and 60 × 20 cm (S4) and four dates of sowing viz., 15th October (D1), 25th October (D2), 5th November (D3) and 15th November (D4). Within a replicate, the four sowing dates were considered as main plots and within such a main plot, the four spacings were treated as sub plots. Sowing dates were randomized first followed by randomization of spacing within a sowing date. Thus, each replicate had represented by four sowing dates columns and subplots represented by four spacings, providing a total of 48 (3 × 4 × 4) plots. The size of each plot measured 1.5 m × 5 m. Each spacing was maintained in a separate subplot within the main plot. The thinning operation to get desired spacing, plant density and plant geometry was done after 21 days of sowing. The weeds were removed by long tine hoe at 30 and 60 days after sowing during crop growth period. \r\nThe recommended dose of fertilizer of N80, P40, and K40kg/ha for the crop was applied in the form of Urea, Single Super Phosphate and Muriate of Potash uniformly. Full dose of P and K with half dose of nitrogen fertilizers were drilled just before the sowing as a basal application, and remaining half dose of nitrogen were applied at 25 DAS after thinning operation. Need need-based irrigation was given. Lower to moderate infestation of mustard aphid was observed which was managed through insecticide spray.\r\nThe disease severity in term of percent disease intensity (PDI) on leaf at 90 DAS (at 50% pod formation stage) and PDI on pod at 120 DAS (at physiological maturity stage) were recorded. After harvesting and threshing, seed yield (kg ha-1), test weight of one thousand seed (in gram), cost of cultivation (C3), gross return (on the market price of Rs. 70/Kg), net profit and B:C ratio were calculated for different treatment. Other valuable parameters like days to attain 50 % flowering, physical maturity age, period of reproductive phase of the crop were also recorded.\r\nThe severity of disease was recorded on leaves at 90 days after sowing at 50 % pod formation stage and on pods at 120 DAS at physiological maturity stage, following 0–5 scale of Sharma and Kolte (1994) where, 0=nosymptoms; 1=1-10% leaf area damaged; 2 = 11-25%; 3 = 26-50%, 4 =51-75%; and 5 ≥ 75% leaf/pod are a damaged.\r\nThe severity Index (SI) was then calculated in terms of PDI as:\r\nPercent Disease Index (PDI) =\r\n (Sum of all numerical ratings)/(Total no. of leaf/pod observed × Maximum rating)× 100\r\nAll recorded data, were analysed as the standard analysis of variance (ANOVA) technique prescribed for a split plot design (Syndecor and Cochran 1967) and the treatment means for both years were compared individually and was pooled at the 5% level of significance (P=0.05) using least significant difference (LSD) and hence results based on pooled analysis were presented to draw logical inferences. \r\nRESULTS\r\nThe effect of four different sowing dates viz. D1 (Oct. 15), D2 (Oct. 25), D3 (Nov. 05) and D4 (Nov. 15) as well as four plant spacings viz. S1 (30 × 10 cm2), S2 (30 × 20 cm2), S3 (45 × 20 cm2) and S4 (60 × 20 cm2) on disease severity as percent disease intensity (PDI) on leaves and PDI on pods, test weight (1000 seed grain weight) and seed yield were recorded significant (Table 1, 2 and 3). Days to attain 50% flowering, physiological maturity, period of reproductive phase, net profit and B:C ratio for different sowing dates were summarised (Table 3).\r\nEffect of Sowing dates: Pooled mean data of two years for different sowing dates D1 (Oct. 15), D2 (Oct. 25), D3 (Nov. 05) and D4 (Nov. 15) for PDI on leaf were 19.53, 24.54, 34.09 and 55.39; for PDI on pods were 10.45, 23.49, 35.10 and 48.79; for test weight of seed in gram were 5.50, 5.28, 5.09 and 4.55; for seed yield in kg ha-1 were 1810.50, 1618.90, 1340.80 and 996.10 respectively (Table 1 & 2). This data clearly revealed that delayed sowing resulted into rapid enhanced of the severity of Alternaria blight on leaves and pod and thereby gradual reduction of test weight of seed and seed yield of mustard crop. Rapid increase of disease severity in delayed sowing may be due to favourable environmental condition and advancing susceptible crop age. Decrease in test weight and seed yield in delayed sowing dates might be due to increased disease severity, delayed germination and enhancing temperature which shortened days of crop maturity therefore getting less time and leaf area site for biomass accumulation through carbon fixation before seed formation which in turn resulting into finally low net return and B:C Ratio (Table 3).\r\nEffect of plant spacing: The pooled mean data of two years for different plant spacings S1 (30 × 10 cm2), S2 (30 × 20 cm2), S3 (45 × 20 cm2) and S4 (60 × 20 cm2) for PDI on leaf were 36.67, 34.93, 31.92 and 30.03; for PDI on pods were 32.35, 30.53, 28.44 and 26.51; for test weight in gram were 5.03, 5.08, 5.13 and 5.19; for seed yield in kg ha-1 were 1488.50, 1458.00, 1328.90 and 1390.90 respectively (Table 1 & 2) which revealed that widening of spacing resulted into, however slight reduction of the severity of leaf blight and pod blight and thereby slight enhancement of test weight of seed but decrease in seed yield of the crop. This data under different plant spacings for changes in the disease severity on leaf as well as pod, test weight, seed yield, net profit and B:C Ratio might be due to differences in plant immunity, plant growth factors viz., nutrients uptake and availability of light, moisture, space and aeration in differed share by individual plants. Performance of individual plants in terms of disease severity on leaf and pod were observed better along with growth and yield attributing characteristics like test weight of seed in wider plant spacings, but due to decrease in plant density from the optimum level, seed yield, net return and B:C ratio got decreased (Table 3).\r\nEffect of sowing dates × plant spacing: The pooled mean data of two consecutive years for the interaction between sowing dates and plant spacings revealed that maximum disease intensity on leaf, that on pod and minimum test weight were with 57.77%, 52.10 % and 4.47 gram respectively in D4 × S1 (Table 1 & 2). The minimum disease on leaf, that on pod and maximum test weight of seed were 15.12%, 8.75 % and 5.61 gram respectively in D1 × S4. However, the maximum yield (1865 kg ha-1) was obtained in D1 × S1 followed by (1831.50kg ha-1), however statistically at par in D1 × S2 and (1791.00kg ha-1) in D1 × S3. The maximum disease on leaf, that on pod and minimum test weight of seed were 57.77 %, 52.10 % and 4.47 gram respectively in D4 × S1. However, the minimum yield (936.50 kg ha-1) was obtained in D4 × S4 followed by (991.50 kg ha-1) in D4 × S3 and (1013.50 kg ha-1) in D4 × S2 (Table 1 & 2). Effect of sowing dates on growth stages and economics: Result revealed that successive 10 days delay in sowing of mustard from 15th October to 15th November increased the days to attain 50 % flowering from 58 days to 66 days but shortened the days to attain physiological maturity from 148 to 136 days, thereby reducing the reproductive phase from 90 to 70 days which coupled with increased disease severity on leaves as well as on pods, lead into drastic reduction of yield (from 1866 to 1043 kg/ha), net return (from Rs. 87620 to Rs. 38010 per ha) and Benefit: Cost ratio (from 3.04 to 2.09).\r\nDISCUSSION\r\nOur experimental results are in close proximity with the findings of some other researchers viz., Prasad et al. (2003), Ayub (2001); Shivani and Kumar (2002); Mahapatra and Das (2015); Keerthi et al. (2016); Singh et al. (2018); Jat et al. (2019); Sohi et al. (2020); Lalruatfeli et al. (2021).\r\nLalruatfeli et al. (2021) also observed similar results from Nagpur, Maharastra that delay in sowing after first week of November reduced the yield, but in terms of spacing they found 45 × 10 cm as the best which differed from our result, which may be due to regional variation in climatic condition. Prasad et al. (2003) reported that the early sowing reduced the disease severity. Ayub, (2001) also suggested to adjust the sowing time of Indian mustard as the basic techniques to reduce the Alternaria blight incidence. Shivani and Kumar (2002) reported that seed yield decreased progressively with delay in sowing date and widening of spacing. They also found 30 cm as optimum row spacing for Indian mustard sown after 5th October. Khatun et al. (2011) also found 21st October sowing as the best along with lower disease percentage on leaf and silique. Mahapatra and Das (2015) also reported that disease severity gradually increased with delay in sowing. Keerthi et al. (2016) also reported similar results from Gujarat, regarding decrease of reproductive phase, seed yield, and B:C ratio with successive delay in sowing from 15th October to 15th November. Singh et al. (2018) from Dholi, also found similar effect on seed yields, net return and B: C ratio by different sowing dates and crop geometry. They reported that sowing on 14th and 24th November resulted in % reductions in seed yield by 23.3 and 43.3, net return 32.2 to 59.8 and B: C ratio 23.4 to 55.8 per cent as compared to sowing on 4th November. They also observed the reductions caused due to different crop geometry was to the extent of 11.12 to 31.08 per cent in seed yield, 10.92 to 30.44 per cent in net return and 15.71 to 50 14 per cent in B: C ratio as compared to the crop geometry of 30 cm × 10 cm. Jat et al. (2019) also found similar results of significant higher seed yield, (1882 kg/ha) and corresponding higher net return (Rs. 46737/ha) and B:C ratio (3.04) from sowing of mustard crop in the second fortnight of October and that of 1895 kg/ha, Rs. 46448/ha and 2.96 from the spacing of 30 cm × 10 cm. Sohi et al. (2020) also found increasing disease severity of Alternaria blight of mustard with delay in date of sowing.\r\n\r\n','Sanjeet Kumar, C.S. Choudhary, A.K. Mishra, T. Alam, R.K. Choudhary, M. Kumar and B. Rai (2022). Effect of Sowing Dates and Spacings on Alternaria Blight of Mustard and Economics of Cultivation. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 14(3): 955-960.'),(5397,'136','Studies on Variability, Heterosis and Combining ability analysis in Rice (Oryza sativa L.)','M.V.S.K. Rohit, Abhinav Sao, Deepak Gauraha and S.K. Nair','163 Studies on Variability, Heterosis and Combining ability analysis in Rice (Oryza sativa L.) M. V. S. K. Rohit.pdf','',1,'The current study examined variability, heterosis, and combining ability in elite rice genotypes using four lines and six testers, including two check varieties, Swarna and Improved Samba Mahsuri. For analysis of variance, GCA, SCA, and heterosis, observation data for twelve yield and their contributing traits were acquired. High PCV and GCV was found in effective tillers plant-1 and grain yield, confirming variability in the hybrids and selection for these traits will be beneficial for genetic improvement. RP 5706-112-4-5-3-2 and IR10N134 are the best general combiners among the lines and testers since they have highly substantial GCA effects on grain yield plant-1 as well as several important traits. The estimates of SCA effects on grain yield in the cross combinations R2321-165-1-148-1/IR09N496 and R2296-341-1-212-1/RB-59 were highly significant. The heterosis over mid-parent and better parent was found to be highly significant for the hybrid RP5706-112-4-5-3-2 / IR09N496 for grain yield. The main challenge regarding the combining ability analysis is to select best cross combination out of all hybrids so that multilocation trails can be done for further study. ','Heterosis, general combining ability, specific combining ability, phenotypic coefficient of variation, genotypic coefficient of variation','The analysis of variance was foundto besignificant for all the characters studies, where sufficient variability is present among the genotypes.Among the lines, RP5706-112-4-5-3-2 and among the testers, IR10N134 came out to be the best general combiners for more yield and its attributing traits. The highest significant positive heterosis for grain yield over mid parent and better parent was found in RP5706-112-4-5-3-2/ IR09N496 and R2321-165-1-148-1/ IR09N496 over standard varieties. The best performing crosses i.e., RP5706-112-4-5-3-2/ IR14A150, R1138-688-3-533-1/ IR14A150, RP5706-112-4-5-3-2/ IR10N134, R 2296-341-1-212-1/ IR14A150, R1138-688-3-533-1/ IRRI-186 and R2321-165-1-148-1/ IR14V1020 were the most promising based on mean grain yield, GCA, SCA and heterosis.','INTRODUCTION\r\nRice is known as a grass crop as it\'s semi-aquatic, indicating it spends half of its life cycle submerged in water and the other half on land. It belongs to the Poaceae family. Globally, rice is grown on an area of 164.19 million hectares with an annual output of 756.74 million tonnes and a productivity of 4.60 tonnes per hectare, where there is a gain of 1.47 percent in area and 0.99 percent in production compared to 2019 (Anonymous, 2020). China is the leading producer, accounting for 27.99 per cent of total production followed by India with 23.56 percent, Bangladesh with 7.25 per cent, Indonesia with 7.22 per cent, Vietnam with 5.65 per cent, Thailand with 3.99 per cent, Myanmar with 3.31 per cent, Philippines with 2.54 per cent, Brazil with 1.46 per cent and Cambodia with 1.44 per cent are the top 10 countries which constitute nearly 85 % of global rice production.Combining ability and hybrid vigour are the most essential genetic characteristics for producing superior cultivars. Breeding techniques based on hybrid development demand a high degree of heterosis as well as the specific combining ability (SCA) of crossings. So, combining ability is necessary for picking the most elite parents by undertaking numerous cross combinations through Line × Tester analysis (Kempthorne, 1957). Jones (1926) originally documented heterosis in riceand noted a considerable increase in culm quantity and grain production in several F1 hybrids in contrast to their parents.\r\nMATERIAL AND METHODS\r\nThe experimental material used for the experiment are elite rice genotypes which comprise four lines viz., R1138-688-3-533-1, R2296 -341-1-212-1, RP5706-112-4-5-3-2, R2321-165-1-148-1and six testers viz., IR09N496, IR10N134, IR14A150, IR14V1020, IRRI-186, IRBB-59 and their cross combinations along with 2 checks were evaluated in Randomised block design (RBD) in two replications. To fulfil the objective and intent of the analysis, various yield and yield attributing traits were examined and evaluated. Randomly five plants are chosen from each row to obtain information on different observations during the optimum plant growth cycle. Average results from the sampled plantsregarding different traits weresubjected for statistical analysis. The observations recorded during the crop period are days to 50 % flowering, days to maturity, plant height (cm), panicle length (cm), effective tillers plant-1, panicle weight (g), total number of spikelets panicle-1, number of filled spikelets panicle-1, spikelet fertility %, grain yield plant-1, 1000 seed weight (g) and harvest index (%). As per standard statistical procedure, analysis of variance was calculated for each of the characters separately using a randomized block design (Panse and Sukhatme 1978). The significance was tested by referring to the values of ‘F’ table (Fisher and Yates, 1967). \r\nY(ij )=µ+gi+rj+eij\r\nwhere,\r\nYij = phenotypic observation of 𝑖th genotype and 𝑗th replication\r\nµ = general mean\r\ngi = effect of 𝑖th genotype\r\nrj = effect of 𝑗th replication\r\neij = random error associated with 𝑖th genotype and 𝑗th replication\r\nThe genotypic and phenotypic coefficient of variation were calculated according to the formula given by Falconer (1981). Heritability in a broad sense was calculated as the ratio of genotypic variance to the phenotypic variance and expressed as a per centage (Falconer, 1981). Genetic advance as per cent of mean for each character was worked out as suggested by Johnson et al. (1955). The combining ability analysis was done using line × tester model given by Kempthrone (1957). Heterosis may be defined as superiority of an F1 hybrid over both of its parents in terms of yield and any other character. It is manifested as increase in size, vigour, growth, yield, or any other characteristic may be considered.The significance of different types of heterosis was calculated by employing t-test suggested by Nadarajan and Gunashekharan (2005).\r\nRESULTS AND DISCUSSION\r\nThe analysis of variance for 36 genotypes revealed significant variability among the genotypes and selection is effective for genetic improvement. In the present research, the estimates of GCV and PCV were mentioned in table 1. Higher estimates of PCV were recorded in grain yield plant-1, effective tillers plant-1, harvest index. Higher estimates of genotypic coefficient of variation were recorded in grain yield plant-1 followed by effective tillers plant-1. The values of the phenotypic coefficient of variation were found to be higher than those of the genotypic coefficient of variation indicating the influence of the environment. Higher estimates of genotypic coefficient of variation and phenotypic coefficient of variation were recorded in grain yield plant-1 followed by effective tillers plant-1 indicating the presence of sufficient variability in the hybrids and thereby suggesting that selection of these traits will be useful for genetic improvement. Similar findings were reported by Noatia et al. (2021) for grain yield.\r\nThe estimates of broad sense heritability and genetic advance as a percent of mean were mentioned in Table 1. All the characters under study except the harvest index showed higher estimates of broad-sense heritability (i.e., > 60% as suggested by Johnson et al., 1995). High degree of the genetic advance as a per cent of mean observed for characters, grain yield plant-1, effective tillers plant-1, number of filled spikelets panicle-1, total number of spikelets panicle-1, harvest index, panicle weight and 1000 seed weight. High heritability coupled with high genetic advance as a per cent of mean was reported for the traits ofeffective tillers plant-1, panicle weight, total number of spikelets panicle-1, number of filled spikelets panicle-1, grain yield plant-1 and 1000 seed weight indicating that the expression of such charactersiscontrolled by the additive gene action and thus simple selection will be effective for the improvement of this character. Similar findings were reported by Sao and Motiramani (2006); Priyanka et al. (2020) for total number of spikelets panicle-1 and filled number of spikelets panicle-1, Noatia et al. (2021) for total number of spikelets panicle-1 filled number of spikelets panicle-1 grain yield and 1000 seed weight.\r\nHigh heritability coupled with moderate genetic advance as a percentage of mean was observed for traits such as plant height, panicle length, days to maturity, and days to 50% flowering, implying that expression control by both additive and non-additive gene action cannot be used to improve these traits and thus heterosis breeding could be successful.\r\nThe analysis of variance for combining ability was mentioned in Table 2. The variance due to line × tester was recordedas significant for all the characters. This suggests that sufficient variability is available in the material used for study. The GCA effects is main criteria for selection of good general combiners among the lines and testers. The estimates of GCA effects are mentioned in Table 3. The best general combiner among the lines is RP 5706-112-4-5-3-2 as it has highly significant GCA effects with the grain yield plant-1 along with some important traits like harvest index, total number of spikelets panicle-1, filled spikelets panicle-1 and spikelet fertility %. IR10N134 came to be the best general combiner out of all testers for grain yield plant-1, the total number of spikelets panicle-1, number of filled spikelets panicle-1 and spikelet fertility %. The estimates of SCA effects of the 24 cross combinations were mentioned in Table 4. The highest negative significant SCA effects for days to 50 % flowering have shown by cross R1138-688-3-533-1/ IR14A150 followed by R2296-341-1-212-1/ IR09N496 and R2321-165-1-148-1/ IRBB-59. Negative values indicate that these are good combinations for early flowering. The highest negative significant SCA effects for days to maturity have shown by cross R1138-688-3-533-1/ IR14A150 followed by R2296 -341-1-212-1/ IR09N496 and R2321-165-1-148-1/ IRBB-59. Negative values indicate that these are good combinations for early maturity so that harvesting can be done earlier. The highest negative significant SCA effects for plant height have shown by cross RP5706-112-4-5-3-2/ IR10N134 followed by R1138-688-3-533-1/ IRRI-186 and R2296 -341-1-212-1/ IR14A150. Negative values indicate that these are good combinations for developing dwarf and semi-dwarf hybrids. The highest positive significant SCA effects for panicle length havebeen shown by cross R1138-688-3-533-1/ IR14V1020 followed by R2296 -341-1-212-1/ IRRI-186 and RP5706-112-4-5-3-2/ IR14A150. The highest positive significant SCA effects for effective tillers plant-1 have been shown by cross R2296 -341-1-212-1/ IR09N496 followed by RP5706-112-4-5-3-2/ IR14A150 and RP5706-112-4-5-3-2/ IRRI-186. The highest positive significant SCA effects for panicle weight was shown by cross R2321-165-1-148-1/IRBB-59. The highest positive significant SCA effects for total number of spikelets panicle-1 have been shown by cross R2296-341-1-212-1/ IRBB-59 followed by RP5706-112-4-5-3-2/ IR10N134 and RP5706-112-4-5-3-2/ IR14A150. The highest positive significant SCA effects for number of filled spikelets panicle-1 have been shown by cross R2296-341-1-212-1/ IRBB-59 followed by RP5706-112-4-5-3-2/ IR10N134 and RP5706-112-4-5-3-2/ IR14A150. The highest positive significant SCA effects for spikelet fertility % have shown by cross R2296-341-1-212-1/IRBB-59. The highest positive significant SCA effects for grain yield have been shown by cross R2321-165-1-148-1/ IR09N496 followed by R2296 -341-1-212-1/ IRBB-59 and RP5706-112-4-5-3-2/ IRRI-186. Positive values indicate that these are good combinations for developing high-yielding varieties. Similar findings were also supported by Keerthiraj et al. (2021), Hussein et al. (2021); Yadav et al. (2021) and Gaballah et al. (2021). The highest positive significant SCA effects for 1000 seed weight have been shown by cross R2296 -341-1-212-1/ IR10N134 followed by RP5706-112-4-5-3-2/ IRBB-59 and R1138-688-3-533-1/ IR14A150. The highest positive significant SCA effects have been shown by cross RP5706-112-4-5-3-2/IR10N134 followed by R2321-165-1-148-1/ IRBB-59. Best general and specific combiners for yield and its attributing traits are mentioned in the Table 5.\r\nThe heterosis over mid parent (relative heterosis), over better parent (heterobeltiosis) and over standard check (standard heterosis/ useful heterosis) was estimated for all the characters under study and mentioned in Table 6. The highest significant positive heterosis for grain yield over mid parent and better parent was found in RP5706-112-4-5-3-2/ IR09N496 and R2321-165-1-148-1/ IR09N496 over standard varieties. Similar findings were reported by Nanditha et al. (2021); Ray et al. (2021); Barhate et al. (2021).\r\n','M.V.S.K. Rohit, Abhinav Sao, Deepak Gauraha and S.K. Nair (2022). Studies on Variability, Heterosis and Combining ability analysis in Rice (Oryza sativa L.). Biological Forum – An International Journal, 14(3): 961-970.'),(5398,'136','Field Establishment and Foraging activity of Bombus haemorrhoidalis Smith','Diksha Devi, Harish Kumar Sharma, Monika, Meena Thakur, Kiran Rana, Sawraj Jit Singh and Babita Kaushal\r\n','164 Field Establishment and Foraging activity of Bombus haemorrhoidalis Smith Monika.pdf','',1,'Bumble bees are found to be effective pollinators as compared to the honey bees due to their buzz pollination behaviour as well as their ability to work for longer period of time. Keeping this in view, the present study was conducted to evaluate the foraging behaviour of B. hameorrhoidalis Smith under shade net house conditions and reported that maximum incoming (1.61) and outgoing activity (1.57) was observed during 0900-1000 hours. Moreover, the foraging activity also varied among different months of the year and recorded maximum incoming (2.10) and outgoing (2.10) activity during October month, while minimum during May. ','Bumble bees, Pollinators, month, hours and activity','Bumble bees have long been recognized as efficient pollinators as compared to honey bees under protected conditions because of their potential of buzz pollination and long working hours. From the present study, it is clear that maximum incoming and outgoing activity of B. haemorrhoidalis Smith was observed during the month of October, at 0900-1000 hours. ','INTRODUCTION\r\nOne of the major factors responsible for good quality and productivity of agricultural and horticultural crop is pollination for which, a number of insect pollinators viz., honeybees, bumble bees, and solitary bees etc. helps in transferring pollens from one flower to another flower (McGregor, 1976). Out of a number of insect pollinators, bumble bees are the superstar of pollinators also known as teddy bear of insects. Bumble bees are most diverse group of pollinators in temperate regions and only 34 species out of the 250 species are found in tropics (Williams, 1998). The bumble bees are more efficient and reliable pollinators especially under protected conditions (Mackenzie, 2009), helping in high quality fruit production due to their high speed of pollination, buzz behaviour and efficiency at low temperature and sunlight (Paydas et al., 2000). Use of insect pollination within greenhouse, especially bumble bees gave cost effective and attractive substitute of manual pollination (Velthuis and van Doorn 2006). An external and internal environmental condition along with foraging efficiency of bumble bees has an impact on required pollination of various crops. Foraging activity of bumble bees was important to serve as successful pollinators under these greenhouse conditions as compared to honey bees (Wolf and Moritz, 2008).Bumble bees can fly and pollinate flowers under cool conditions due to their thermoregulatory abilities (Corbet, 1995). They have better adaptive qualities for pollen and nectar collection near their hives and preference increases in small patches with flower abundance (Sowig, 1989). Abak et al. (2000) conducted a pollination experiment on bumble bees and observed that their activity increased between 9:00 to 11:00 am, the peak activity was observed between 10:00 to 11:00 am then decreased gradually and they stopped between 13:00 to 14:00 pm. They started foraging again in afternoon between 15:00 to 18:00 pm. Spivak (2000) also reported that bumble bees are effective foragers than honey bees because of their ability of buzz pollination. \r\nBumble bee hang onto flower and buzz it by vibrating their muscles that control flight. Bumble bees are the most efficient pollinators not only for wild plants, but also for pollination services used in outdoor and greenhouse orchards and horticulture. Foraging behaviour studies conducted on four species of bumble bee in England revealed that the high foraging activity occurs at 1000-1100 h. The pollen collection was also high during noon hours (Free, 1955). Hines et al. (2007) also studied foraging activity of B. pullatus and observed foraging range within 2.6-9.5 bees per minute across different time period, with the highest activity in the morning (07:00-10:00 am). Pollen collection was also highest from 07:00 -10:00 am and declined throughout rest of the day, while the foraging rate for nectar foragers remained relatively constant. The percent of incoming foragers that carried pollen in a sample period ranged from 2.4 to 44.2 per cent. There was no significant relationship between ambient temperature and number of all foragers. Foraging trips lasted from 30-70.5 minutes, with a mean of 51 and a median of 49.5 minutes. Kashyap (2007) recorded maximum bumble bee activity during 0600-0700 and 1600-1700 hours while, minimum during 1200-1300 hours. Stelzer and Chittka (2010) reported that bumble bee activity was restricted between 08:00 to 23:00 hours. Thakur (2018) observed the peak incoming and outgoing activity during 1700-1800h (4.63 bumble bees/five min) and 0900-1000h (4.73 bumble bees/five min), respectively and minimum during 1300-1400h. Nayak (2018) also reported maximum activity during 1600-1700h while minimum during 1300-1400h. \r\nKeeping in view all these points, present studies were undertaken to investigate the foraging activity of Bombus haemorrhoidalis Smith kept under shade net house conditions.\r\nMATERIALS AND METHODS\r\nThe experiment was conducted in experimental farm, Bagaur under the Department of Entomology, College of Horticulture, Dr YS Parmar University of Horticulture and Forestry, Nauni-Solan (H.P.) in the first week of June, 2018. Foraging B. haemorrhoidalis queens were collected from field during early spring and then brought to laboratory for their in-vitro rearing. These captured queens were kept in wooden domiciles under controlled conditions (25 ± 2ºC temperature and 60 - 65 per cent relative humidity). Proper cleaning and daily feeding of 50 per cent sugar syrup and freshly collected pollens were given to colonies. After the production of first brood i.e., at the end of May, 2018these colonies were transferred to field under shade net hose conditions for their establishment and acclimatization. Under field conditions, small wooden boxes consisting of colonies were kept in Langstroth hive, which was kept on iron stand at the centre of the cage. Plastic pipe was also fitted at the entrance for easy movement of bumble bee foragers. The colonies were provided proper feed for first 2-3 days by closing their entrance. After 2-3 days, data on incoming and outgoing bumble bee forgers was noted down. Data recorded on various parameters were analysed statistically with no transformation in R.B.D. design by Gomez and Gomez (1986).\r\nRESULTS AND DISCUSSIONS\r\nIncoming activity of B. haemorrhoidalis foragers. Data recorded on incoming activity of bumble bees under shade net house conditions is presented in Table 1. The data showed that bumble bee activity was significantly low during initial months of shifting and development of colonies being 0.37, 0.55, 0.57 bumble bees/five min, respectively in May, June and July. The average activity of bumble bees in the field peaked during October (2.10 bumble bees) followed by September (1.76 bumble bees) which was at par with the activity observed during November (1.59 bumble bees) (Fig. 1). \r\nThe incoming activity of B. haemorrhoidalis varied greatly in the months of May to December during different day length. Irrespective of months, the B. haemorrhoidalis activity was maximum (1.61 bumble bees) during 0900-1000h followed by activity observed during 1800-1900h (1.27 bumble bees) which was statistically at par with the activity observed during 0600-0700h (1.14 bumble bees). Significantly low incoming activity was observed during 1500-1600h (0.82 bumble bees) and 1200-1300h (0.85 bumble bees) which was statistically at par. \r\nOutgoing activity of B. haemorrhoidalis foragers. Data recorded on outgoing activity of B. haemorrhoidalis under open field conditions presented in Table 2 revealed that the B. haemorrhoidalis activity was significantly low in the months of May, June, July and December being 0.49, 0.58, 0.65 and 0.60 bumble bees/five min, which were statistically same. However, the average outgoing activity of B. haemorrhoidalis peaked during the month of October (2.10 bumble bees) (Fig. 1). \r\nThe outgoing activity of B. haemorrhoidalis varied greatly in the months of May to December during different day hours. It varied from 0.11 bumble bees (in December during 1500-1600h) to 3.32 bumble bees (in October during 0900-1000h). Irrespective of months, the B. haemorrhoidalis activity was maximum (1.57 bumble bees) during 0900-1000h. Significantly low average outgoing activity (0.62 bumble bees) was observed during 1500-1600h.\r\n \r\n\r\n\r\nThe results of the present investigations with respect to foraging activity of B. haemorrhoidalis under shade net house conditions are in line with the findings of earlier workers (Chauhan et al., 2013; 2014; Thakur, 2018; Nayak, 2018). Chauhan et al. (2013; 2014) recorded maximum incoming and outgoing activity of B. haemorrhoidalis at hive entrance during 0900-1100h and 1600-1800h and minimum during 1300-1500h.Later, Thakur (2018) observed the peak incoming and outgoing activity during September and October months which was statistically at par. However, the minimum activity was observed in May. According to day hours, the peak B. haemorrhoidalis incoming and outgoing activity was observed during 1700-1800h (4.63 bumble bees/five min) and 0900-1000h (4.73 bumble bees/five min), respectively. On the other hand, the minimum activity was reported during 1300-1400h. Nayak (2018) also reported maximum activity during 1600-1700h while minimum during 1300-1400h. ','Diksha Devi, Harish Kumar Sharma, Monika, Meena Thakur, Kiran Rana, Sawraj Jit Singh and Babita Kaushal (2022). Field Establishment and Foraging Activity of Bombus haemorrhoidalis Smith. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 14(3): 971-974.'),(5399,'136','Evaluation of China Aster (Callistephus chinensis) Genotypes for Cut Flower Production','Shruti Mallikarjun Kolur, Iranna Hejjegar and Satish S. Patil','165 Evaluation of China Aster (Callistephus chinensis) Genotypes for Cut Flower Production Shruti Mallikarjun Kolur.pdf','',1,'China aster [Callistephus chinensis (L.) Nees] belongs to the family asteraceae and is native of Northern China. It is grown commercially as cut flower for flower arrangement and interior decoration. A field experiment was conducted to assess suitability of the china aster genotypes for cut flower production with regard to growth, yield and quality parameters at Department of Horticulture, University of Agricultural Sciences, Dharwad during 2019-20. The aim of present experiment was to identify the suitable cut flower genotype for Dharwad condition. The experiment was laid out in Randomized Block Design with three replications of ten varieties (Namdhari Pink, Namdhari White, Arka Kamini, Arka Poornima, Arka Shashank, Phule Ganesh Purple, Phule Ganesh Pink, AAC-1, Miraj Local and Pink Cushion). The results of the study indicated that maximum plant height (63.41 cm) was recorded in variety Phule Ganesh Purple while, Phule Ganesh Pink recorded maximum plant spread (41.72 cm) at 90 days after transplanting. Variety Arka Shashank is early to flower (39.08 days). Maximum flower diameter (7.42 cm), flower stalk length (42.38 cm), vase life of cut flowers (11.30 days) and number cut flower per plant (22.39) was reported in variety Phule Ganesh Pink. The overall study revealed that Phule Ganesh series found promising for cut flower production among the all genotypes evaluated in this zone (Dharwad). ','China aster, evaluation, varieties, Flower quality parameters, yield parameters','The significant variations were observed among the ten genotypes for the vegetative, yield and quality traits. Cut flower yield per plant, vase life and flower stalk length should be given top priority for the direct selection of best cut flower genotype. Among the all evaluated genotypes Phule Ganseh series were performed best under Dharwad condition. The evaluation of distinct china aster genotypes helps for identifying the superior genotype for crop improvement.','INTRODUCTION\r\nChina aster [ Callistephus chinensis (L.) Nees] is one of the predominant members of the ‘asteraceae’ family and is native of Northern China (Navalinskien et al., 2005). The genus ‘Callistephus’ is procured from Greek words ‘kalistos’ and ‘stephos’ these are symbolizing ‘most beautiful’ and ‘a crown’(flower head) respectively. Cassini narrated Callistephus hortensis as china aster. Fore mostly Linnaeus described it as Aster chinensis however, Nees subsequently altered to Callistephus chinensis.\r\nChina aster is one of the most popular annual flower crops cultivated widely due to its myriad colours ranging from violet, purple, magenta, pink and white. Among the annuals, China aster is ranked third for popularity, after Chrysanthemum and Marigold. Small and marginal farmers of Karnataka, West Bengal, Tamil Nadu, Andhra Pradesh and Maharashtra were commercially grown the china aster. \r\nThe cut flower is an important floricultural product and refers to a flowering stem ending in a single flower or bearing a number of small flowers radiating from the base. China aster is grown commercially as cut flower for flower arrangement, interior decoration and loose flower for garland making, worshipping (Munikrishnappa et al., 2013), pot plant and bedding in landscaping. \r\nAngadi et al. (2000) studied on performance of china aster varieties. The results revealed that the double type cultivar \'Violet Cushion\' was more acceptable for cut flower production.\r\nExperiment was conducted on performance of china aster varieties by Kaushal et al. (2014) the results revealed that variety Arka kamini gives maximum cut flower per plot (163.20). However early flowering (103.30 days) and longest vase life (10.14 days) was reported in variety Arka Shashank and Voilet Cushion respectively.\r\nAditya et al. (2019) carried out investigation on performance of seven china aster genotypes. Arka adhya registered for maximum flower head circumference (16.12 cm) and flower diameter (5.13 cm) while, Arka Shashank reported longest flower stalk (19.88 cm) and longer duration of vase life (7.70 days) in normal tap water.\r\nAn assessment on china aster genotypes for flowering , yield and post harvest life was carried out by Bhargav et al. (2019) revealed that the genotype ‘IIHRG13’ reported maximum flowering duration (34.40 days) and longer vase life (4.42 days). Maximum length of stalk was assessed in IIHRCC39 (49.10 cm) and these two genotypes were considered as suitable for cut flower production.\r\n However there is always a demand of superior and new flowers over the existing cultivars. Therefore, there is need to identify stable genotypes having maximum cut flower yield and post harvest quality. Therefore, an investigation was conducted on assessment of China aster (Callistephus chinensis) genotypes for cut flower production. \r\nMATERIALS AND METHODS\r\nThe current study was conducted at floriculture unit, university of agricultural sciences, Dharwad during 2019-20. Totally 10 genotypes were collected from different sources and evaluated for growth, yield and quality parameters. Geographical site of experimental fields is located in the Northern Transitional Zone (Zone VIII) of Karnataka state situated at 15°26North latitude, 75°07 East longitude with an altitude of 678 m above the mean sea level.\r\nThe experiment was laid out in Randomized Block Design with three replications. The seedlings of china aster were planted at 30 × 30 cm spacing. Uniform cultural practices were followed to raise the successful crop. Five plants per replication were selected for recording observations. The data on plant height (cm), plant spread (cm), days to flower bud appearance, days to full bloom (days), duration of flowering (days), number of cut flowers /plant, flower diameter (cm), stalk length (cm) and vase life (days). The observations were statistically analysed.\r\nRESULTS AND DISCUSSIONS\r\nThe china aster genotypes exhibited significant variation for all the traits studied under Dharwad condition. The genotype Phule Ganesh Purple recorded maximum plant height (59.56 cm) and Arka Shashank recorded minimum plant height (44.71 cm) which was less vigorous in growth (Table 1). Differences in plant height among the cultivars may be due to the varietal character coupled with growing condition. Similar variation in plant height was given by Dharmendra et al. (2019) in china aster and in marigold by Singh et al. (2004).\r\nCultivars had significant influence on plant spread. Phule Ganesh Pink recorded highest spread (39.14 cm) and it might be attributed to enhanced number of branches with more internodal length and wider angle between the branches during later period of growth. Whereas, lowest spread recorded in Arka Shashank (23.54 cm). The differences in plant spread is governed by genetic make up of particular variety. Correspondent variation for spread of plant in china aster recorded by Rai et al. (2016); Nishchitha et al. (2016).\r\nDays taken for initiation of flower bud is an important character describing the earliness of flowering which is useful for the selection of precocious varieties. Arka Shashank was found early to initiate flower bud (38.24 days) and first flowering (42.91 days) compared to others while, Phule Ganesh series were late (Table 1). This could be because of cultivar characters and enhanced vegetative growth might have influenced on early transformation of vegetative growth into reproductive stage in early cultivars as observed in the present study as well as earlier conclusions by Munikrishnappa et al. (2011); Kumari et al. (2017) in china aster and Chourasia et al. (2015) in tuberose. They reported that food stock in plant that could be related to the growth rate of plants regulating accumulation of requisite level of carbohydrates resulted early flowering.\r\nPhule Ganesh Pink recorded maximum flower diameter (7.31 cm) which was followed by Arka Poornima (6.48 cm) and Phule Ganesh Purple (6.31cm) whereas, Arka Shashank (3.85 cm) recorded minimum flower diameter. Longer flower stalk length (42.26cm) was reported by Phule Ganesh Pink (Table 2). While, Arka Shashank and Arka Kamini recorded minimum flower stalk length (29.04cm and 30.54 cm respectively). The diversity among the different varieties resembles the earlier studies by Srinivasulu et al. (2004); Nishchitha et al. (2016) in china aster and Sushma et al. (2017) in chrysanthemum. \r\nlonger vase life of flowers was recorded by Phule Ganesh Series. Phule Ganesh Pink documented maximum vase life of 10.80 days and it was followed by Phule Ganesh Purple (9.98 days) and Arka Poornima (9.15 days) while, Namdhari White (6.86 days) had minimum vase life. Variation among the different varieties perhaps attributed to inherent composition of these varieties as it has been demonstrated earlier in china aster (Ravimumar, 2002; Chowdhuri et al., 2016; Bhargav et al., 2018) and in marigold (Nandakishor and Raghava 2001).\r\nFor the trait number of cut flower per plant(22.39), were found highest in Phule Ganesh Pink compared to all other cultivars in study and suitable for cut flower production in china aster among the assessed cultivars due to longer and thick flower stalk along with maximum vase life and genetic factors also influence the variations among the cultivars. Munikrishnappa et al. (2011); Zosiamliana et al. (2012) in china aster and Philip et al. (2019) in rose.\r\n','Shruti Mallikarjun Kolur, Iranna Hejjegar and Satish S. Patil (2022). Evaluation of China Aster (Callistephus chinensis) Genotypes for Cut Flower Production. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 14(3): 975-978.'),(5400,'136','Species Identification in Diatoms using DNA Barcoding: An Overview','Suvechha Kabiraj, Suman Jyoti Bhuyan and Umesh Goutam','166 Species Identification in Diatoms using DNA Barcoding An Overview Umesh Goutam.pdf','',1,'Diatoms are unicellular photoautotrophic microalgae found predominantly in freshwater and marine environments, but sometimes in soil and as aeroplankton. Diatoms are vital components of ecosystems as food sources for a variety of different creatures. Because many morphological features can only be identified using scanning electron microscopy or other high-resolution technologies, identifying diatoms morphologically below the genus level requires specialist taxonomic knowledge and often expensive infrastructure. Alternatives include DNA barcoding and high-throughput-sequencing which allows for the quick analysis of a large number of collected samples at a lower cost than microscopy. Therefore, in order to appropriately identify environmental sequences, a carefully managed reference library is required. Standardised processes now rely on microscopic measurements, which are gradually takes time and highly susceptible to misidentification. To address these issues, DNA barcoding is better alternative. A large number of barcodes can be captured from natural materials when barcoding is applied in combination with next-generation sequencing. By analysing the sequences to a reference genomic library and employing algorithms, these barcodes are classified as specific diatom taxa. The application of the DNA barcoding idea to diatoms has a lot of promise for resolving the problem of erroneous species identification and thereby facilitating biodiversity assessments of environmental samples. DNA barcodes in diatoms can be used for a variety of applications, including classification of taxonomic group using DNA, determining genetic variation in a specific circumstance. Researchers are currently interested in developing DNA barcodes for all living organisms and compiling data that will be available to the public to aid in the understanding of the world\'s natural biodiversity. The identification of unidentifiable biological material to a taxonomic group and species diversity of living organisms can be done using accurate and reliable information about DNA barcoding. The challenges include while performing this study are the phylogenetic framework of barcoding, development and testing of candidate barcodes and creation of diatoms and the emergence of a system of identification. Important future challenges will also focus on building a DNA barcode library and developing genomic sequencing methods as efficient as possible by utilizing these genetic identifiers to biological subfields.','Diatoms, DNA barcoding, DNA barcode marker, Gene locus','DNA barcoding is a system for rapid and accurate species identification that will improve access to the ecological system. It has many applications in various fields such as identification of new species, evolutionary relationships, biomonitoring and bioassessment, forensics, cryptic species, and databasing. DNA barcoding is a useful technique for identifying organisms at the molecular level. This technique includes polymerase chain reaction (PCR) to amplify a fragment of the gene, which is then sequenced and compared to a database of known organisms. The purpose of this study is to obtain the polymerase chain reaction (PCR) primers and reagents required for DNA barcoding on a wide range of taxonomic groups. This technology reduces the number of organisms that must be accumulated in the field while also decreasing the time between collection and identification.','INTRODUCTION\r\nResearchers have traditionally handled species identification and classification, providing a nomenclatural framework and a necessary prerequisite for a wide range of biological studies. Today\'s society must address a number of critical biological issues, including the importance of protecting natural, ensuring survival, preserving biodiversity, and preventing pandemics. To address these challenges, the \'DNA Barcode of Life\' project seeks to create a standardised, rapid, and low-cost species identification method that is accessible to non-specialists (Frézal and Leblois 2008). With the development of PCR-based approaches for species identification in the 1990s, the concept of a standardised mechanism of identifying molecules emerged gradually. Bacterial research, surveys of the diversity of microorganisms, and routine pathogenic strain diagnosis are the main applications of molecular identification to address the demand for identifying systems that are not culturally specific. The identification of eukaryotic pathogens and vectors, as well as food and forensic molecular identification, have all benefited from the widespread use of PCR-based techniques. Several universal molecular-based identification systems have been used for lower taxa but have not been successfully implemented for broader scopes. The DNA barcode project\'s goal is not to create a molecular taxonomy tree, but rather to develop an easy new technique based on enormous biological data collected in the DNA barcode reference library. The DNA Barcode of Life data system allows for the collection, storage, analysis, and dissemination of DNA barcode records (Purty and Chatterjee 2016).\r\nA DNA barcode is one or a few short gene sequences found in the genome that are distinct enough to identify species. By sequencing a very short standardised DNA sequence in a well-defined gene, DNA barcoding is a useful tool for taxonomic classification and species identification. Using this technique, complete species information can be obtained from a single specimen, regardless of morphological or life stage characteristics. The species is identified by using Polymerase Chain Reaction to amplify a highly variable region of the nuclear, chloroplast, or mitochondrial genome\'s DNA barcode region (Urbánková & Veselá, 2013). Nuclear DNA, chloroplast DNA, and mitochondrial DNA are some of the most commonly used regions for DNA barcoding. DNA barcodes can be used to group unknown species based on barcode sequences into previously known species or new species. The set of DNA barcode markers has been applied to specific taxonomic groups of organisms and has proven to be invaluable in understanding species boundaries, community ecology, functional trait evolution, trophic interactions, and biodiversity conservation. The use of NGS technology has increased the versatility of DNA barcodes across the \'Tree of Life,\' habitats, and geographies, as new methodologies for characterising species are explored and developed (Purty and Chatterjee 2016). In an ideal world, a single gene sequence would be used to identify species across all taxa, from viruses to plants and animals. However, because the perfect gene has yet to be discovered, different barcode DNA sequences are used for animals, plants, microbes, and viruses.\r\nDiatoms. A diatom is a photosynthetic, single-celled organism, which produces its own food in the same way as plants do. They are a major group of algae and one of the most common types of phytoplankton, joining the swarms of organisms that float on currents in the upper layers of the ocean and lakes (Ballesteros et al., 2021). Diatoms can be found anywhere and everywhere. They can be found in rivers, oceans, lakes, bogs, damp rock surfaces, and even the skin of a whale. Diatoms are significant because they form the foundation of the food chain for both marine and freshwater microorganisms and animal larvae, and they are a major source of atmospheric oxygen, accounting for 20-30% of all carbon fixation on the planet. Diatoms can serve as environmental indicators of climate change and are used to make some household products such as pest/mite repellent and mild abrasives. Because diatoms have specific ecological requirements, they can also be used as environmental indicators, informing us about what is going on in the environment. Diatom cell walls can be preserved in sediments for long periods of time, providing a record of past changes in lake systems (MacGillivary & Kaczmarska 2011). Diatoms are the most common organisms in plankton and come in a wide range of shapes and sizes. Diatoms have silica cell walls, and each species has a unique pattern of tiny holes in the cell wall (frustule) through which they absorb nutrients and expel waste. When examined under a microscope, diatoms exhibit a wide range of shapes with numerous interesting and beautiful patterns (Liu et al., 2020). Their shapes and structures are typically regular and symmetrical, and these characteristics are used to identify and classify them (Hamsher et al., 2011). Phytoplankton are the smallest plankters, with sizes ranging from about 1mm to 7.5 micrometres, making them nearly invisible to the naked eye. All diatoms have a siliceous (glassy) exoskeleton composed of two halves that perfectly fit inside one another. Many diatoms remain as isolated cells and spend their entire lives adrift, whereas others form chains/clumps. Plankton samples were previously stored in formalin, which caused them to appear grey and lifeless – a stark contrast to their true colourful selves when fresh.\r\nCRITERIA FOR IDENTIFICATION OF DIATOMS\r\nGenes and gene locus. There have been numerous gene regions investigated for barcoding diatoms, and out of those genes, themitochondrial cytochrome oxidase I gene (cox1), 18S nuclear rRNA, plastidial rbcL (ribulose-1,5-bisphosphate carboxylase oxygenase gene) and, nuclear rDNA ITS region has been widely used. Following several studies, it was discovered that the rbcL gene is less dynamic than the cox1 gene within-species sampling, whereas it has been proven to be a favourable barcode marker in certain organisms.\r\nThe highly conserved 18S nuclear rRNA gene region has been used for environmental sample analysis and for phylogenetic research. It has been observed that the 18S rRNA has a high resolving and amplification power.Cox1 having high polymerization has revealed the molecular inventories that differed the greatest from the expected inventories which are owing to the limited amount of reference barcodes created by Sanger sequencing. This low number is due to the fact of primer specificity. Because of the extremely varied v4 region and a large number of reference barcodes, 18S (including the v4 region) demonstrated a high degree of similarity between molecular and anticipated inventories. rbcl has demonstrated a higher polymorphism than 18S with a similar number of reference barcodes therefore the molecular inventories closest to expected inventories were obtained with rbcL (Zimmermann et al., 2011). \r\nDNA Barcoding. DNA barcode is agene segment basically used in the species identification (Ács et al., 2016). It has been growing very fast in recent years and becoming an important tool for biodiversity research and monitoring, as well as molecular phylogeny and evolution. The most widely used method for species identification and biological sample consistency is DNA barcoding. It can identify specimens to the genetic level. Fig. 1 illustrates the process of DNA Barcoding. When compared to traditional identification methods, DNA barcoding is more cost-effective, and it can even be used when just a little amount of sample is available. After a trustworthy reference database has been created, the fundamental advantage of DNA barcoding is that it does not require specialised taxonomic expertise to identify particular samples. Additionally, since there is no need for reproductive material, identification can be carried out using small tissue samples from almost any part of the organism. It is also typically quick and repeatable. The lack of a single universal DNA region that can be used to all taxonomic groups is a disadvantage of the approach.\r\nDNA Barcode Marker. There are three basic requirements for a suitable barcode marker. They are (1) it should have a introductory sequence that can be easily amplified and sequenced in one single read (2) should be accompanied by a consensus sequence where universal primers can be inserted, and (3) should have the capability of resolving organisms at the genetic level. A suitable barcode marker can be determined by two conditions. Those two conditions are discriminatory power and universality. Discriminatory power states the marker\'s ability to distinguish between genetic diversity and universality refers to research problems such as the utilisation of primer pairs, the standard of sequences acquired, and the homology modelling challenges (Nauer et al., 2022). The best functioning barcode markers for diatoms are currently available as follows: (i) the 3’ end of the large subunit of the rbcL (rbcL-3 P), (ii) a 540 bp fragment situated 417 bp downstream of the start codon of the rbcL (540 bprbcL), (iii) the 5’ end of the mitochondrial cytochrome c oxidase I gene (COI-5 P), (iv) a partial sequence of the large ribosomal subunit (D1-D3 LSU, usually either D1-D2 or D2-D3), and (v) the V4 sub-region of the small ribosomal subunit (V4 SSU) (Evans et al., 2007). The 5.8 S gene, when paired with the second internal transcribed spacer, could be used as a diatom barcode marker which is having sufficient universality and good discrimination power. It has been rejected in many studies due to a lot of intraclonal variation, which made it difficult to link even closely related lineages. As a result of not meeting the universality condition, all major subunits of the rbcL sequence are inappropriate for DNA barcoding. Due to its limited discriminatory power, the universal plastid amplicon was also proposed as a marker for all eukaryotic algae and cyanobacteria (Stiawan et al., 2022).\r\nADVANTAGES OF DNA BARCODING\r\nDocumenting, phylogenetic revision, and the possibilities of using a microscope for identification. Barcodes will immediately aid taxonomy revision, enhancing the morphological data previously accessible, because they represent new information about organism genotypes. However, the new collections that barcoding development will necessitate and generate are arguably more important. Many additional specimens will have to be obtained and somatic mutation cultures isolated to create the reference barcodes. As a result of barcoding, vast new sources for diatom DNA barcoding and microscopic identification will emerge. Barcodes can also help to keep the nomenclature of living diatoms consistent (Zou et al., 2021). Furthermore, because most types are permanently set in resin on slides and can only be studied by light microscopy, they frequently don\'t include enough information to limit the use of the defined term. Even when defragmented specimen is gathered for experimental results, determining how a name should be applied might be difficult. Barcoding will not eliminate these challenges immediately, but once barcodes are connected to type specimens and made operational there would be a significantly less of a requirement to refer natural kind specimens.. Unlike the morphology of a physical object, a barcode sequence — essentially a molecular type which is clear and easily communicated (Mann et al., 2010).\r\nSpecies Discovery. Determination of a new species DNA barcoding was first created for classes of organisms like birds and fish that already had a thorough and accurate alpha taxonomy. The purpose of barcoding in such organisms, as well as in certain others where it has lagged due to methodological issues, is to easily identify them. In diatoms, however, there is still a significant amount of alpha taxonomy to be completed. As a result, many barcode sequences taken from wild populations or cultures would directly relate to nothing in the database even after having diatom species even after having collection of barcodes. Some represents previously undiscovered phenotypic variation and resembles a known species barcode while others are unidentified species that would need to be further characterized, described, and assigned to the proper supraspecific group (Rimet et al., 2019).\r\nSo even though identification is the primary function of barcode but it can also be used for the evolutionary studies. It should be simple to align and involve both largely conserved and quickly evolving regions. One fair critique of barcode-based species finding is that it implies that speciation has not occurred below a certain level of divergence.\r\nThis is irrelevant since there is no causal connection between speciation and molecular divergence. When sister species are compared, neutral genetic variations build up in a pattern like a clock over time, although it may take a lengthy period following evolution by natural selection for sibling species to become reciprocally monophyletic about a barcode marker. The faster the barcode marker changes, the less likely newly developed species are to go unrecognized. Even if the two are linked, this is merely a modification of the concept of a molecular barrier for recognizing species, because compensatory base-change and speciation are not causally linked (Mann et al., 2010).\r\nNew avenues for research into diatom biogeography and the biodiversity of living diatoms. Diatoms are generally dead when they are recognized due to the necessity to inspect minute details of frustule ornamentation and structure for specific identification, and it is not always obvious either they died as a result of the cleaning or if they were already killed when tested. As a result, determining either those specific groups were contemporaneous, coexisted in nature, or had crustal or allochronic origins is frequently challenging. At first glance, the method for detecting diatoms while they are still intact appears to be convincing. However, for the reasons mentioned, this is challenging to accomplish using microscopical techniques. So the first point is that there is a difference in refractive index between water and diatom silica and mountants like Naphrax is significantly less, frustule features in living material are more difficult to perceive (Duarte et al., 2020). The second reason includes that the cell wall patterning is hampered by chloroplasts and other cellular proteins, however, utilizing interference contrast optics and the use of elevated filters on photographic images can occasionally improve identification. Thirdly, chloroplast morphology gives extra relevant data because it hardly ever changes between most taxa, and even less so between centric diatoms, this benefit does not outweigh the loss of frustule detail (Mann et al., 2010).\r\nLimitations of Barcoding. The premise behind barcoding is that evolution is associative by a change in the barcode gene\'s sequence. As massive divergence of sequences is random rather instead of continuous. Even if the barcode\'s components rapidly increase, barcoding will fail to recognise certain lineages. Additional information will be required to identify such species. There is a further issue, which is caused by the \'weak\' barcodes: some species may be impossible to barcode simply because they are largely undefined. As a result, barcoding has drawbacks and cannot identify all diatoms. Biological evolution, on the other hand, is a process in which various Species features emerge in a distinct order and at a different time in all characteristics, including morphology and reproductive isolation, are distinct lineages, may fail to differentiate species when utilized separately.\r\nSome species or groups will almost certainly never be able to use the specified barcode. If rbcL were considered as an effective diatom barcode marker, barcoding would be impossible for several species that do not have a functional plastid and are facultatively anaerobic. Even DNA extraction appears to be challenging in some diatoms that produce a lot of mucilage, according to DNA barcoding for diatoms 567.It should also be noted that barcoding does not eliminate the need for microscopy. A lot would be lost if barcoding was seen as a substitute for microscopy rather than as an adjunct to it because many aspects of community structure and function, such as three-dimensional cell arrangement, motility, and cell-size spectra, cannot be determined without the use of an optical or microscopical technique.\r\nChallenges in developing Barcoding for Diatoms. The principal challenges are (1) choosing the taxonomic basis for barcoding, (2) developing and testing candidate barcodes, and (3) generation of a sufficiently comprehensive set of barcodes to make barcode identification practical.\r\nThe phylogenetic framework of barcoding. One of the most difficult aspects of identifying diatoms is that several taxonomies are used. Diatom DNA barcoding is being held back by this dispute. The majority of researchers would most likely to create a sensitive enough barcode technology to distinguish including all of the new species they are or will be describing, including cryptic and pseudo-cryptic forms. As a result, taxonomists can select a molecular marker that develops quickly, such as ITS-1 or -2, or COI. This is referred to as a\' strong\' barcode. Those who have successfully used diatoms for bio monitoring and discovered that a crude taxonomy suffices for their needs, on the other hand, maybe a \'weak\' barcode with little ability to discriminate. It may be manageable to create a barcode system that closely resembles the widely used freshwater flora, with morphological features replaced by molecular ones (Fei et al., 2020).\r\nUnderstanding whether evolutionary change in diatoms is typically or always accompanied by differences in physical or chemical requirements, or specific to biotic factors, or whether clades of closely related species share the same niche, would be useful when deciding between \"weak\" and \"strong\" barcodes. To find a solution, speciation studies in depth, as well as ecological studies in diverse habitats and with various types of diatoms, are required. These studies are still in their early stages, but preliminary findings suggest that speciation is linked to niche, indicating that it is possible to improve the environmental monitoring resolution by using a \'strong\' barcode. As a result, using a \'weak\' barcode is likely to limit the exploitation of these organisms for bioengineering and biomonitoring, as well as genetic analysis, biodiversity, and ecology research. So this type of barcode has significant impacts. A strong barcode system\'s high resolution will almost certainly allow for future advancements in bio monitoring and ecological research. It will also enable the identification and study of cryptic species. Whereas a \'weak\' barcode system tends to stabilise taxonomy (Kollár et al., 2021). It would convert a classification based primarily on light microscopy, which is a molecular identification system, which is already recognised as inadequate for various research disciplines.\r\nDEVELOPMENT AND TESTING OF CANDIDATE BARCODES \r\nUp to this point, LSU rDNA, SSU rDNA, ITS rDNA, the universal plastid amplicon (UPA), rbcL, and COI have been tested. The criteria for evaluating barcodes are the same as for any other group of organisms: (A) universality, (B) practicability, and (C) discrimination. The term \"power\" refers to a marker\'s capacity for differentiation. The barcode\'s universality can be determined by putting it to the test on a phylogeny of the diatoms including wide range of taxa. There is no agreement based on the major diatom lineages\' branching order but a universality test, however, must contain references from each of the major lineages of \'radial centric diatoms,\' several\' multipolar centric diatoms,\' and a diverse range of pennate diatoms.\r\nAccording to practicality, the barcode must be short enough to allow to reads in both directions with a a fixed pair of primers, and analysis procedures must be simple. It does not necessitate the use of complex algorithms to achieve desired alignment. Practicality evolves and, as equipment and bioinformatics protocols improve, becomes less of a constraint. Anyway, more tests are required, and the desired universality is most apparently found in incomplete LSU rDNA, incomplete ITS-1–5.8S–ITS-2, rbcL or selective rbcl and UPA. The subject utilising any of the rDNA regions is one of practicality: Intragenomic variation is common as a result numerous, non-identical rDNA cistron copies are formed and may be dispersed throughout one, two, or more loci. \r\nAlthough there could be one dominant version, others would be plentiful enough to minimise precise reads during DNA amplification, considering the frequent length change due to insertions and deletions. Direct ITS sequencing is not possible in several genera of species. Furthermore, arrangement of rDNA sequences is incredibly hard, becoming more challenging with evolutionary detachment measured by functional constraints on molecule speciation. Alignment isn\'t required for identification because algorithms like BLAST can be used to compare sequences.\r\nMoreover alignment ease of access becomes a key core challenge, given the current diatom taxonomy, if both species finding and classification are to be accomplished using barcode areas. In other rDNA regions, intragenomic variation may be insufficient and interspecific variation may be excessive to make them useful as barcodes. Protein-encoding genes, such as COI and rbcL, present serious fewer obvious issues that are produced than rDNA and can be easily combined and contrasted. Once the universality and practicability conditions are in place, the discrimination of barcode markers must be tested. Because of the existing system of taxonomy and the choice between \'weak\' and\' strong\' barcodes, this is the most difficult of the three factors to analyse in diatoms. Examining a barcode\'s performance in distinguishing between random selection of organisms with novel associations that can only be deduced from the barcode is meaningless. Evidently, only a few groups of species have been highlighted sufficiently to be used as diatom related species (Cristóbal et al., 2020).\r\nCreation of diatom barcodes and the emergence of a system of identification. Extracting material for producing the reference barcode is usually difficult in multicellular organisms: A single genotype is represented by a leaf or a scrap of tissue cut from any living organism, and enough DNA is provided for analysis and culture is necessary to supply diatoms cellular composition and DNA content. Though many diatoms have never been successfully cultured, others cannot be kept in culture indefinitely due to their mating system. As a result, diatoms are unrepresented and unbalanced in accumulation of cells, and efforts to isolate and propagate strains are renewed through barcoding diatoms (Kahlert et al., 2021).\r\nSequencing is most likely the least difficult stage. It is imperative to preserve DNA whenever we need to check the barcodes and provide materials for upcoming research. The complete diatom marker has not yet discovered but this is equally important as it may be still under development. Given the current state of sampling, in the future all specimens in the barcode database could have additional barcode markers if DNA is made available. Indeed, it would be incredibly difficult to redo the massive culturing and vouchering effort that will be required to establish the barcode database (Hiransuchalert et al., 2022).\r\nFor taxa that are resistant to isolation and culture, it is now possible to amplify the entire genome from a single or a few cells. However, due to the difficulty in profiling and verifying the morphology of the cells extracted, this is problematic for barcoding. So there are the following steps:\r\n— Consensus on two or more barcode areas(on the basis of their universality, practicability, and discriminatory power) that all species need to be sequenced. Presently, the most promising candidates are 3\'-rbcL and partial LSU rDNA. \r\n— All the data for the preparation of common protocols for culturing, vouchering, characterization, DNA preservation, and the use of primers, more specifically has been added to the central database.\r\n— Further testing of potential barcode markers, as well as on-going attempts to determine model group’s species limits. Existing markers and protocols are being continuously improved. \r\n— Increasing the effort being put into culturing, vouchering, characterization, and identification.. All these processes can be assigned to technical experts, but these are areas that require significant new funding. Initially, specific habitats and model groups should be prioritised, but there should also be a relatively broad coverage. Contributions from every taxonomists who study diatoms will be required to confirm that identification numbers for barcodes are properly related with the current taxonomy through a microscope, and approaches to overcome strong linkages to the extensive amount of alpha-taxonomic research and the barcode endeavour performed in diatoms should be sought (Smith et al., 2022).\r\nAPPLICATIONS OF DNA BARCODING\r\nDNA barcodes are used in a variety of fields, including taxonomy, ecology, biosecurity, and food safety. One of the DNA barcoding\'s primary goals is to accelerate the process of cataloging biodiversity through the use of standardized genetic markers for species identification. Molecular barcodes aid in the completion of the biodiversity inventory by 1) revealing cryptic diversity at different taxonomic levels 2) recognizing species in taxa with no distinguishing morphological features. DNA barcodes can also aid in the resolution of long-standing nomenclatural debates, resulting in the taxonomic revision of poorly defined morphospecies. In ecology and conservation biology, DNA barcoding is also widely used. Molecular barcodes are sometimes used to detect and monitor invasive and endangered species by tracing their DNA contained in hair, faeces, or water samples (Al-Meshhdany & Hassan 2020).\r\nThe analysis of non-degraded DNA in stomach contents reveals specific species diets or interspecies interactions, such as the predation pressure of some invasive species.DNA barcodes are also commonly used for pest species detection and food quality control. Metabarcoding, also known as environmental DNA barcoding, is another emerging barcoding technique which uses genetic markers to identify individuals found in environmental materials such as dirt seawater etc (Naeem et al., 2019). Short DNA barcodes are used in metabarcoding to classify species diversity or to detect specific species in environmental DNA extracts (Ahmed et al., 2022).\r\nThe advancement of next-generation sequencing (NGS) technologies capable of producing millions of sequences at a low cost prompted the development of metabarcoding (https://www.biorxiv.org/content/10.1101/2022.05.04.490577v1). The results of next-generation sequencing studies revealed a huge variety of aquatic eukaryotes, including many promising lineages and undiscovered species. Metabarcoding has also been used to measure the environmental impacts of human activities, and to monitor freshwater benthic diversity (Pawlowski & Holzmann 2014).\r\n','Suvechha Kabiraj, Suman Jyoti Bhuyan and Umesh Goutam (2022). Species Identification in Diatoms using DNA Barcoding: An Overview. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 14(3): 979-985.'),(5401,'136','Evaluation of Systems of Cultivation and Nutrient Management Practices on Yield Attributing Characters and Yield of Rice','G. Santhosh Kumar, R. Mahender Kumar, A. Srinivas, G. Jayasree and T. Ramesh','167 Evaluation of Systems of Cultivation and Nutrient Management Practices on Yield Attributing Characters and Yield of Rice G Santhosh Kumar.pdf','',1,'A field study was conducted during kharif and rabi seasons of 2011-12 and 2012-13 at research farm of Indian Institute of Rice Research (formerly DRR), Hyderabad to evaluate the performance of different systems of cultivation under different nutrient management practices. The treatment consisted of four systems of cultivation i.e., system of rice intensification (SRI), modified drum seeder with 25 × 25cm spacing, normal drum seeder and conventional transplanting in main plots and four nitrogen management practices i.e., 100 % RDN (recommended dose of nitrogen) through inorganic, 75 % RDN through inorganic+ 25% RDN through organic, 50 % RDN through inorganic + 50% RDN through organic and 100 % RDN through organic in sub plots. Experimental data revealed that SRI recorded significantly superior yield attributing characters i.e., higher panicles number meter-2, total grains number panicle-1, filled grains panicle-1 and lower spikelet sterility (%) compared to other establishment methods during all the seasons of experiment. Significant higher grain and straw yield was recorded with SRI followed by modified drum seeder, normal drum seeder and conventional transplanting. Under different nutrient management practices 50% inorganic + 50% organic treatment registered higher panicles number meter-2, filled grains panicle-1, lower spikelet sterility (%), grain and straw yield as compared to remaining nutrient management practices during all the four seasons of data.','SRI, modified drum seeder, sterility percentage, INM, grain yield','In conclusion from the above study, wider spacing in SRI recorded superior yield attributing characters and higher yield. Among nutrient management practices 50% RDN through inorganic + 50% RDN through organic source was found to be superior in all the yield attributing characters and yield. Interaction effect revealed that SRI in combination with 50% RDN through inorganic source + 50% RDN through organic recorded significantly higher grain yield over other establishment and nutrient combinations.','INTRODUCTION\r\nRice is the staple food for a large part of the human population. Globally, for 40 % of the population rice (Oryza sativa L.) is the major source of energy (Baishya et al., 2015) and supplies as much as 50% of the daily calories (Abbasi et al., 2011). Annually in India, around 120 million tonnes of rice is produced in an area of 44 million hectares with a productivity of over two tonnes per hectare of milled rice.\r\nAbout 77% of the global rice production in the world is produced by practicing conventional transplanting method in puddled soil (Chakraborty et al., 2017; Xu et al. 2019). Conventional transplanting system of rice crop production requires water, labour, energy and capital in large amount so that it has become less profitable at present due to the lack of these resources (Guruprem et al., 2017). Transplanting takes roughly 25% of the total labour requirement of the crop.A shortage of labour during peak period causes delayed transplanting, it leads to increasing transplanting shock and lower productivity. Increased cost of rice cultivation was observed in conventional methods due to decreased availability and increasing cost of labour. All these factors demand a major shift from conventional transplanted rice production to wet direct seeding of rice.\r\nDirect seeding on puddled soil avoids drudgery of nursery raising and transplanting. It saves time and investment compared to transplanting. Absence of nursery management and transplanting operation, less labour requirement, reduction in methane emission, increased water use efficiency and higher profitability are the advantages of direct seeding compared to transplanted rice (Chauhan et al., 2012). Risk of terminal drought can avoided by practicing direct seeded rice as it matures 1-2 weeks earlier than transplanted rice and it also allows earlier sowing of a following non-rice crop (Rana et al., 2014).\r\nIn India after green revolution cultivation of high yielding dwarf varieties took place. These HYVs are responsive to fertilizer. To meet the nutrient needs of these high yielding varieties farmers become depended on application of chemical fertilizers. Increased use of the chemical fertilizers leads higher rice yields and biomass production (Ghosh et al., 2013). Inherent soil fertility was badly effected with excess use of inorganic fertilizers. The decline or stagnation in yield has been observed in spite of application of increased rate of chemical fertilizers. Data analysis of the long-term studies all over the country revealed that in spite of continuous use of chemical fertilizers also a decrease in rice productivity was observed (Baishya et al., 2015). Organics can improve yield and nutrient use efficiency of rice (Singh and Kumar 2014). Nutrients demand at the peak period can be met through organics. Organic manures also acts as source for micro nutrients and increase the efficiency of applied nutrients by modifying the soil-physical behavior. The combined application of organic manures and inorganic fertilizers not only supply the nutrients demanded by the crop but also helps to attain productivity goals by maintaining the sustainability of the system (Yadav and Meena 2014).\r\nMATERIALS AND METHODS\r\nThe present study was under taken during kharif and rabi seasons of 2011-12 and 2012-13at Indian Institute of Rice Research farm, Rajendranagar, Hyderabad. The farm is geographically situated at an altitude of 542.7 m above mean sea level on 17° 19’ N latitude and 78° 29’ E longitudes. The soil was clay loam, alkaline in reaction (pH 8.0-8.2), with 0.48-0.52% of organic matter, 210-223 kg ha-1 of available nitrogen, 39-43 kg ha-1 of available P and 525-542 kg ha-1 of available K. The experimental design was split plot design with four main plot treatments, four subplot treatments and replicated thrice. The treatment combinations consisted of four establishment methods i.e., system of rice intensification(SRI) (M1), modified drum seeder (25 × 25cm spacing)(M2), normal drum seeder (M3) and normal transplanting(NTP) (M4) in main plots and four nutrient management practices i.e., 100 % RDN (recommended dose of nitrogen) through inorganic (N1), 75 % RDN through inorganic + 25% RDN through organic (N2), 50 % RDN through inorganic + 50% RDN through organic (N3) and 100 % RDN through organic (N4) in sub plots. In normal drumseeders, the spacing will be 20 × 5-8 cm. By making some alterations modified drum seeder was fabricated with spacing of 25 × 25 cm for this study to test the wider spacing efficiency in direct seeding. The high yielding, semi dwarf rice variety Sampadha, having crop duration of 135 days and yield potential of 5.8-6.8 t ha-1 was grown in the experimental site. The recommended dose of fertilizer was 120 Kg N: 60 Kg P2O5: 40 Kg K2O ha-1. In case of 100% inorganic treatment nitrogen was applied through urea in three equal splits as ½ as basal, ¼ at maximum tillering and ¼ at panicle initiation stage. In INM treatments inorganic source of nitrogen was applied through urea in three equal splits at basal, 30 DAT (days after transplanting) and at 60 DAT. The organic source of nitrogen was applied based on the nitrogen equivalent of vermicompost as basal. In case of direct seeding sprouted seeds were sown on thoroughly puddled and well leveled main field. On the same day the sprouted seeds were broadcasted uniformly on well prepared nursery bed for NTP and SRI.\r\nRESULTS AND DISCUSSION\r\nNumber of panicles (m-2). Systems of cultivation significantly influenced number of panicles meter-2. During all the four seasons SRI exhibited significantly higher number of panicles m-2 than all other systems of cultivation and it was followed by modified drum seeder. It was in conformity with the findings of Jeet et al., (2021); Bhat et al., (2018); Dhakal et al., (2017) and Bhandari et al., (2020). It was also observed that normal transplanting method showed significantly lower number of panicles m-2 as compared toall other establishment methods. NTP recorded 43.25, 34.16, 29.16 and 38.46% lower number of panicles m-2 as compaped to SRI during kharif 2011, kharif 2012 and rabi 2011-12 and rabi 2012-13, respectively. These observations were in conformity with the findings of Singh et al. (2015).\r\nDuring all the four seasons the treatment N3 (50% Inorg + 50% Organic) noticed higher number panicles m-2over other nutrient management practices and it was followed by N1 [100% Inorganic]. The per cent increase in number of panicles noticed in N3 [50% Inorg + 50% Organic] (10.0, 11.0 and 10.5 %), N1 (100% Inorganic) (6.3, 8.5 and 7.4 %) and in N2 [75% Inorganic + 25% Organic] (10.0, 11.0 and 10.5 %) was appreciable over N3 [100% Organic] during 2011 kharif, 2012 kharif, 2011-12 rabi, 2012-13 rabi and in pooled kharif and rabi means, respectively. This might be due to integrated use of inorganic and organic sources of nutrients have resulted in enhanced nitrogen availability in the root zone resulting in enhanced N uptake by rice which ultimately helped in production of more panicles. These results are in support with Shrinivas and Krishnamurthy (2017); Bhat et al., (2018); Patel et al., (2013).\r\nTotal number of grains panicle-1. During all the four seasons of study it was observed that methods of planting were significantly influenced the total number of grains panicle-1. Numerically higher number of grains panicle-1was observed with SRI during all the four seasons. This might be attributed to wider spacing adopted in SRI resulted in more light interception that finally lead to more dry matter accumulation and partitioning into sink (panicles). These results are in accordance with the findings of Jeet et al., (2021); Bhat et al., (2018).\r\nAmong all the nutrient management practices 50% RDN through inorganic source + 50% RDN through organic source treatment recorded significantly higher number of grains panice-1 over treatment N2 (75% RDN through inorganic + 25% RDN through organic source) and treatment N4 (100% RDN through organic source) and it was statistically on par with N1 (100% RDN through inorganic source) during all the seasons of the study. Application of organics and inorganics in equal ratios supplies nutrients during the reproductive stage by decomposing the applied vermicompost to the rice crop. These nutrients were utilized by the plants and resulted in more number of grains panicle-1. These observations were in conformity with the findings of many researchers (Bhat et al., 2018; Laljiyadav and Meena 2014). Treatment 100% RDN through organic source recorded the lowest number of grains panicle-1.\r\nNumber of filled grains panicle-1. Number of filled grains panicle-1 differed significantly among planting methods during all the four seasons of study. The numerically higher number of filled grains panicle-1 was observed with SRI. This was due to wide spacing in SRI has resulted in more leaf area, this leaf area is the source for carbohydrate production. That more carbohydrate production maintained source sink relationship positively in producing more number of filled grains in SRI. These results are in support with the findings of Jeet et al. (2021); Dhakal et al. (2017). 50% RDN through inorganic + 50% RDN through organic source treatment recorded significantly higher number of filled grains panice-1 (105.8, 117.8, 105.9 and 126.8 during kharif 2011, kharif 2012, rabi 2011-12, rabi 2012-13, respectively) over treatment N2(75% RDN through inorganic + 25% RDN through organic source) and treatment N4 (100% RDN through organic source) and it was at par with N1 (100% RDN through inorganic source) during all the seasons of study. This might be due to conjunctive application of organics and inorganics in equal quantity supplied nitrogen as and when needed to crop and this improved N supply contributing to enhanced N uptake by the plant. Increased N uptake resulted in more dry matter production and its translocation from source to sink. Similar observations were also reported by Mangaraj et al., (2022). Treatment N4 (100% RDN through organic source) recorded the lowest number of filled grains panicle-1 (74.3, 90.3, 88.9 and 99.3 during kharif 2011, kharif 2012, rabi 2011-12, rabi 2012-13, respectively). \r\nSpikelet sterility (%). During both the years of study planting methods and nutrient management practices significantly influenced the spikelet sterility percentage (Table 4). The mean spikelet sterility percentage of rice was 16.11, 16.28 and 16.19 % during kharif seasons of 2011, 2012 and in pooled mean respectively, 12.98, 13.66 and 13.32% during rabi seasons of 2011, 2012 and in pooled mean respectively. \r\nThe lowest spikelet sterility percentage was observed in SRI method of planting as compared to modified drumseeder (13.12, 18.51, 12.06, 13.01, 15.82 and12.53 %), normal drumseeder (18.56, 13.98, 14.47, 16.04, 16.27 and 15.26%) and normal transplanting (23.30, 21.65, 17.47, 17.73, 22.48 and 17.60%) during kharif and rabi seasons of 2011-12 & 2012-13 and in pooled means, respectively. This could be due to closer spacing adopted in in normal drum seeder and in normal transplanting lead to intense shading and greater competition between plants and resulted in less nutrient uptake. These observations were in agreement with the findings of Jeet et al., (2021); Dhakal et al., (2017); Bhandari et al., (2020).\r\nDuring both the years of study significantly lower spikelet sterility percentage of rice was registered with 50% RDN through inorganic + 50% RDN through organic source than all other nutrient management practices. Among all the nutrient management treatments 100% RDN through organic source registered highest sterility percentage of 21.58, 20.38, 16.93 and 18.71% during kharif 2011, kharif 2012, rabi 2011-12 and rabi 2012-13 respectively. This was probably due to more vegetative growth and secondary tillers and less partitioning of biomass to the reproductive parts due to less availability of N at grain filling phase of the crop. These results are in agreement with the findings of Harish et al. (2011).\r\n1000 grain weight (g). The mean 1000 grain weight of rice was 19.39, 20.11 and 19.75 g during kharif seasons of 2011& 2012, 20.33, 21.81 and 21.07 g during 2011-12. \r\nNo significant influence on 1000 grain weight of rice was observed with planting methods and nutrient management practices. Among the different systems the mean higher values of test weight was observed with system of rice intensification. All the planting methods performed significantly on par in respect of 1000 grain weight and which was mainly depending on genetically inherent character of the variety. The similar results were also recorded by Jnanesha and Kumar (2017); Bhandari et al. (2020).\r\n50% RDN through inorganic + 50% RDN through organic treatment recorded the numerically higher average values of test weight and it was followed by 100% RDN through inorganic source. 1000 grain weight of rice in general is a character governed by the plant genetic makeup which has been reflected in crop performance. \r\nGrain yield (kg ha-1). The higher grain yield of 6535 kg ha-1 & 6140 kg ha-1 was recorded by SRI method during 2012 & 2011 kharif seasons respectively. Next to SRI method modified drumseeder proved its significant superiority over normal drumseeder and normal transplanting. Whereas, during 2011 kharif modified drumseeder remained at par with normal drumseeder but was found significantly superior over normal transplanting normal drumseeder (Table 6). The pooled data also indicated that SRI method stood first with grain yield of 6337.5 kg ha-1 followed by modified drumseeder, normal drumseeder and normal transplanting. In terms of percentage increase in yield due to SRI over modified drumseeder, normal drumseeder and normal transplanting was 9.27, 18.24, 21.74% respectively. During rabi season of 2011-12 and 2012-13 SRI method was found significantly superior than the remaining three crop establishment methods. There was high yield difference of 579kg ha-1 and 358 kgha-1 between SRI and modified drumseeder in first and second rabi seasons respectively. The pooled data also showed the advantage of 468 kg ha-1 by SRI over modified drumseeder. These observations were in conformity with the findings of Upendrarao et al. (2020); Pramod et al.,(2021); Bhat et al., (2018); Dhakal et al., (2017); Bhandari et al., (2020).\r\nThe yield advantage due to SRI over conventional planting was mainly owing to more number of tiller productions per square meter accompanied by maximum panicle bearing tillers with low spikelet sterility. Since planting of young seedlings of 12 days in main field with immediate establishment have facilitated early initiation of tillers. It is evident that highest tillers production was observed with SRI planting. Controlled irrigation also augmented the fresh root production till flowering stage and does helped in supplementation of nutrient requires for supporting of filling capacity of panicles.\r\nAmong the nitrogen management treatments 50% RDN through inorganic + 50% RDN through organic proved its superiority during all the seasons of experiment. During first kharif season 50% RDN through inorganic+ 50% RDN through organic remained at par with 100% RDN through inorganic. But 2012 kharif data and the kharif pooled data indicated the significant superiority of 50% RDN through inorganic + 50% RDN through organic source. Both the rabi seasons data revealed that 50% RDN through inorganic + 50% RDN through organic was on par with 100% RDN through inorganic and found significantly better over remaining other treatments. The results emphasize the concepts of INM for high grain production and also sustainability of soil fertility (Amanullah and Hidayatullah 2016; Meher Malika et al., 2015). During all the seasons 100% organic treatment recorded lowest grain yield (Elhabe, 2018; Mangaraj et al., 2022; Bhat et al., 2018).\r\nIn respect of grain yield during all the seasons of study the interaction effect of planting methods and nutrient management practices was found to be significant (Table 6a). During kharif 2011, kharif 2012, rabi2011-12, rabi 2012-13 and in kharif and rabi pooled means showed that SRI in combination with 50% RDN through inorganic source+50% RDN through organic source recorded significantly higher grain yield over other establishment and nutrient combinations.\r\nStraw yield (kg ha-1). Straw yield of rice was significantly higher in system of rice intensification and during kharif and rabi seasons of 2012-13 it was significantly on par with modified drum seeder treatment (Table 7). During all the seasons straw yield recorded by modified drum seeder was statistically on par with normal drum seeder. By observing the data of all the four seasons it was witnessed that wider spacing treatments recorded higher straw yield as compared to closer spacing treatments. It was probably due to more dry matter production per unit area caused by better nutrient absorption from soil, increased rate of metabolic processes, higher rate of light absorption and increased rate of photosynthetic activity that produced higher plant height and leaf area index as compared to normal transplanting. These results are in agreement with the findings of Upendrarao et al., (2020); Pramod et al. ,(2021); Nahar et al., (2017); Bhat et al. (2018).\r\nDuring all the four seasons highest straw yield was observed with treatment 50% RDN through inorganic source + 50% RDN through organic source. The superiority of this treatment was due to conjunctive use of organic manures and inorganic lead to adequate supply of nitrogen throughout crop growth period that resulted in higher dry matter production (Meher Malika et al., 2015; Mangaraj et al., 2022). The lowest straw yield was found with treatment 100% organic during all the seasons (Elhabe, 2018; Bhat et al., 2018).\r\n','G. Santhosh Kumar, R. Mahender Kumar, A. Srinivas, G. Jayasree and T. Ramesh (2022). Evaluation of Systems of Cultivation and Nutrient Management Practices on Yield Attributing Characters and Yield of Rice. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 14(3): 986-994.'),(5402,'136','Comparison of Anthocyanin Pigment Extraction Techniques to Evaluate the Free Radical Scavenging Capacity of Butterfly Pea (Clitoria ternatea L.) Flower','Netravati, Saji Gomez, Berin Pathrose, Meagle Joseph, Mini Raj N., Suma A. and Shynu M.','168 Comparison of Anthocyanin Pigment Extraction Techniques to Evaluate the Free Radical Scavenging Capacity of Butterfly Pea (Clitoria ternatea L.) Flower Netravati.pdf','',1,'The Fabaceae plant species Clitoria ternatea L., often known as butterfly pea, contains edible flowers that are a rich source of anthocyanins (water soluble plant pigment) called ternatins having bright blue colour. The objective of present study was to evaluate the free radical scavenging activity of the anthocyanin pigment concentrate obtained by different extraction methods using hydrogen peroxide (H2O2) scavenging activity (%) assay. The extraction methods followed were aqueous (distilled water), acidified aqueous (distilled water with 1% citric acid), solvent (50% ethanol), acidified solvent (50% ethanol with 1% citric acid) and microwave assisted extraction (MAE) with aqueous solvent. The results revealed that significantly higher (79.28±0.47%) scavenging activity was observed in MAE with aqueous medium and lowest (64.39±1.75%) in aqueous extraction method. Using MAE method with aqueous medium as solvent resulted in the pigment concentrate with an intense blue colour and high antioxidant properties. ','Butterfly pea flower, anthocyanin, pigment extraction, free radical, hydrogen peroxide, antioxidants','The butterfly pea bears edible flowers that are a rich source of anthocyanins called \"ternatins\" with bright blue colour. Phytochemicals having anti-diabetic, antioxidant, anti-microbial, anti-inflammatory, and anti-proliferative/anti-cancer activities are also abundant in the flower. From the current study, it could be concluded that aqueous medium with and without MAE method resulted in the pigment concentrate with a bright blue colour and high free radical scavenging activity. More research is required to determine the pigment\'s antioxidant property using other assays given the present demand for plant based blue colourants.','INTRODUCTION\r\nReactive oxygen species (ROS) are a class of oxygen containing free radicals produced by oxidation reactions in organisms. These free radicals viz., single oxygen (1O2), hydrogen peroxide (H2O2), superoxide radical (•O−2) and hydroxyl radical (•OH) are chemical substances that can exist individually with one or more unpaired electrons, produced as undesirable byproducts (Das and Roychoudhury 2014). Free radical production can result in thousands of reactions and significant tissue damage, which in turn leads to harm DNA, proteins, and lipids (Sreejayan, 1997; Basile et al., 1999). Oxidative stress (OS) is the imbalance between cellular ROS production and cellular ROS scavenging ability (Khan et al., 2013). Antioxidants are crucial in providing resistance to OS by scavenging free radicals. The ability to contribute hydrogen atoms or electrons to free radicals and displace them is what is known as the antioxidant property. This prevents the damage that free radicals would otherwise inflict (Tan and Lim 2015). Recent studies have shown that the abundance of antioxidants present in a variety of foods and beverages such as fruits, vegetables, medicinal herbs, tea, coffee etc., have a positive impact on human health (Gulcin, 2012). \r\nAnthocyanins are blue, red, or purple pigments that are present in plants, particularly in their flowers, fruits, and tubers, while it is blue and red in alkaline and acidic conditions, respectively. Despite having a positive charge on the oxygen atom of the C-ring of the basic flavonoid structure; nevertheless, it is regarded as one of the flavonoids (Khoo et al., 2017). Anthocyanins are known for their high antioxidant properties which by giving the hydrogen atom to free radicals, they can either directly scavenge free radicals or indirectly prevent them by chelating free metal ions (Mishra et al., 2013). In addition, it provides more health advantages in terms of antimicrobial, antiproliferative, hypoglycemic, and others (Yoon et al., 2018; Li et al., 2019; Yue et al., 2019; Gamage et al., 2021). \r\nOne of the crops that contains abundance of anthocyanin pigment is Clitoria ternatea L., known as butterfly pea, blue pea, Cord of an pea, and Asian pigeon wings belongs to the Fabaceae family, which yield edible flowers with colours ranging from dark blue, light blue to white and it is one of the important plants widely cultivated in tropical and temperate regions worldwide including Asia, Southeast Asia, the Caribbean, and Central and South America (Adisakwattana et al., 2020). Anthocyanins in butterfly pea flowers are distinctive for their profusion of polyacylated anthocyanins, or \"ternatins\" which are polyacylated derivatives of delphinidin 3,3′,5′-triglucoside (Gamage et al., 2021). As a result butterfly pea flowers with greater potential to be used as a natural source of anthocyanin pigment with blue hue besides health benefits as a supplement in the food and pharmaceutical industries (Jeyaraj et al., 2020). \r\nThe first crucial stage in recovering active compounds from plant materials is extraction (Panda et al., 2022; Jeyaraj et al., 2020). The goal of choosing an effective extraction technique is to produce the highest yield with the highest concentration of the target chemicals (Gamage et al., 2021). It is crucial to use an appropriate extraction technique to obtain the most number of anthocyanins without degrading them because these are sensitive to heat, light, acids and alkalis (Chandrasekhar et al., 2012; Jeyaraj et al., 2020). In this regard, the experiment was conducted to evaluate the free radical scavenging activity of the anthocyanin pigment concentrate obtained by different extraction methods. \r\nMATERIALS AND METHODS\r\nThe laboratory experiment was conducted at Department of Post Harvest Technology, College of Agriculture, Vellanikkara, Kerala Agricultural University, Thrissur, Kerala during 2021-22.\r\nSample preparation. Fresh flowers were gathered in the early morning from Medicinal and Aromatic field block, College of Agriculture, Vellanikkara. The flowers were rinsed under running water from the tap and then drained free of water. The petals were separated from the sepals and dried in a cabinet dryer at 40±2 °C until they reached a consistent weight. The dried petals were then pulverised in a commercial blender and sieved through an 80 mesh size sieve. The petal powder was then sealed in a laminated pouch of aluminium foil and kept in the freezer until pigment extraction.\r\nExtraction of anthocyanin pigment. The experiment was laid out in a Completely Randomized Design with five treatments. The extraction was carried out by using the following methods: T1 - Aqueous (distilled water) extraction, T2 - Acidified aqueous (1% citric acid) extraction, T3 - Solvent extraction (50% ethanol), T4 - Acidified solvent extraction (50% ethanol with 1% citric acid) and T5 - Microwave assisted extraction with aqueous solvent (distilled water). At a temperature of 45 °C, the sample was agitated in the solvent for 45 min. The solvent and plant samples were mixed in a 1:20 (w/v) ratio. In microwave-assisted extraction method, the sample was combined with distilled water, and the tube containing the suspension was heated between 45 and 50 °C by being exposed to a 300-watt microwave for 120 seconds. Filter paper was used to filter the extract and a rotary vacuum evaporator (Heidolph rotary evaporator, Germany) was used to evaporate the filtrate at 60 °C and 114 mbar (Azima et al., 2017). The concentrated filtrates were preserved in glass vials, enclosed inside a laminated aluminium foil bag and kept refrigerated (4–7 °C) condition until analysis.\r\nHydrogen peroxide scavenging activity (%). The free radical scavenging activity of the anthocyanin pigment concentrate was determined by hydrogen peroxide assay (Mahendran et al., 2021). Hydrogen peroxide (10 mM) solution was prepared in phosphate buffered saline (0.1 M, pH 7.4). One mL of the pigment sample was rapidly mixed with two mL of hydrogen peroxide solution. The absorbance was measured at 230 nm in the UV spectrophotometer (Agilent Cary 60 Spectrophotometer, Australia) after 10 min of incubation at 37 °C against a blank (distilled water with hydrogen peroxide solution). The percentage of scavenging of hydrogen peroxide was calculated using the following formula.\r\n \r\nIn which, Ao and A1 is Absorbance of control and sample, respectively.\r\nStatistical analysis. The experiment was carried out in triplicates and results were expressed as mean values with standard deviation (±SD) (Panse and Sukhatme, 1989). One-way analysis of variance (ANOVA) was carried out to determine significant group differences (p≤0.05) between means. Duncan Multiple Range Test (DMRT) was used to compare mean values.\r\nRESULTS AND DISCUSSION\r\nThe free radical scavenging activity of anthocyanin pigment concentrates of butterfly pea flowers was determined by hydrogen peroxide scavenging activity (%) and the results pertaining to it are shown in Fig. 1. The anthocyanin pigment concentrates obtained using different extraction methods have demonstrated their ability to diminish the free radicals. Significantly higher (79.28±0.47%) scavenging activity was noted in microwave assisted extraction method using aqueous solvent (T5) and significantly lower (64.39±1.75%) scavenging activity was observed in aqueous method of extraction (T1). The hydrogen-donating activity, measured utilizing hydrogen peroxide radicals as the hydrogen acceptor, demonstrated that a strong association could be found between anthocyanin pigment concentrates obtained using different extraction methods and their rate of inhibition (Al-Amiery et al., 2012). In addition, during the process of pigment extraction, the extract will not only contain the anthocyanin pigment but a mixture of bioactive components. Since the butterfly pea flowers are known to contain higher amount of polyphenols (Tuan Putra et al., 2021), the main polyphenol constituent being the anthocyanin itself (Pasukamonset et al., 2016) might have contributed to its higher free radical scavenging activity depending upon the method of extraction and solvent used. The phenolics play an important role in the absorption or neutralization of free radicals (Basile et al., 1999).\r\n','Netravati, Saji Gomez, Berin Pathrose, Meagle Joseph, Mini Raj N., Suma A. and Shynu M. (2022). Comparison of Anthocyanin Pigment Extraction Techniques to Evaluate the Free Radical Scavenging Capacity of Butterfly Pea (Clitoria ternatea L.) Flower. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 14(3): 995-998.'),(5403,'136','Assessment of Genetic Variability Parameters for Yield and its Contributing Traits in Rice (Oryza sativa L.)','Maradana Hemalatha, Abhinav Sao and P.K. Chandrakar','169 Assessment of Genetic Variability Parameters for Yield and its Contributing Traits in Rice (Oryza sativa L.) Maradana Hemalatha.pdf','',1,'The current study was undertaken to evaluate the genetic variability, heritability, and genetic advance as % of the mean for grain yield and its attributing traits in 42 rice genotypes. Analysis of variance revealed that the genotypes differed significantly for all the traits studied. For all of the traits, phenotypic coefficients of variation were higher than the genotypic coefficient of variation, indicating that the apparent variation is related to G × E interaction. The number of unfilled spikelets/panicles had the highest magnitude of the phenotypic coefficient of variation and genotypic coefficient of variation. The highest heritability (broad sense) was noted in this research in cooked rice length. The high heritability (%) combined with high genetic advance as % of mean was observed for plant height, flag leaf length, number of spikelets/panicle, number of filled spikelets/panicle, number of unfilled spikelets/panicle, 1000 seed weight, harvest index, biological yield and grain yield/plant, grain length, L: B ratio, brown rice length, milled rice length and cooked rice length.','Rice, genetic variability, coefficient of variation, heritability, genetic advance as % of mean','Analysis of variance revealed that the genotypes differed significantly for all the traits studied. The highest magnitude PCV and GCV were observed for a number of unfilled spikelets/panicles indicating that selection will benefit genetic improvement. The high heritability (%) combined with high genetic advance as % of mean indicates it is most likely due to an additive gene effect. As a result, selecting advanced rice breeding lines based on these characteristics will be useful for increasing grain yield quickly.Top 10 promising rice genotypes based on grain yield / plant performance R 2412-338-1-236-1, R 2358-109-1-86-1, R 2370-115-1-93-1, R 2370-112-2-90-1, R 2409-266-2-207-1, R 2447-1027-1-456-1, R 2358-101-81-1, R 2377-70-2-61-1, R 2358-103-2-83-1, R 2449-1032-1-462-1. These can be incorporated in future rice hybridization programmes and can be released as new high-yielding varieties after thorough testing.','INTRODUCTION\r\nThe monocotyledonous angiosperm rice (Oryza sativa L.) is a member of the tribe Oryzeae, subfamily Bamboosoideae, and family Graminae. It is known as \"Global Grain\" because it provides around 20% of the world\'s calories and is the main source of food for more than 50% of the population. Unlike other cereals, rice is the only grain that is almost totally used as human food (Swaminathan, 1999). The global population of 7.7 billion will increase to 9.7 billion by 2050 (Anonymous (2018-19). Developing disease-resistant and high-yielding rice cultivars should receive special focus when it comes to improving rice yield. The current slowing trend in output and yield must be reversed to fulfil the rising demand. To optimize output and maintain the nation\'s food security and economic success, it is imperative to utilize the genetic resources and knowledge that are now accessible for rice.\r\nAn efficient breeding programme requires an understanding of the genetic variability of yield-contributing traits, how they interact, and how they relate to yield (Nayak et al., 2016). The comprehensive breeding programme includes actions like introducing genetic variability, engaging in the selection, and exploiting chosen genotypes to develop fruitful variations. A sensible evaluation of the genetic variability dimensions, particularly the genotypic coefficient of variation (GCV), phenotypic coefficient of variation (PCV), heritability and genetic advance as % of the mean, is a core component of the grain yield and its contributing traits to play a rare vintage role in improving crop productivity as well as in developing breeding programmes. Genetic factors like genotypic coefficient of variation and phenotypic coefficient of variation evaluate the degree of environmental genotype modification as well as the genetic variability present in genetic resources. The heritability estimates give accurate information about a certain genetic trait that will be passed down through the generations and are an effective tool for breeders to choose parents for crop improvement and pick elite genotypes from a variety of genetic populations (Rashmi et al., 2017). Heritability estimations that are combined with genetic advance as % of mean are often more useful in detecting the gain amenable to selection. The current study was conducted within the framework of elucidating information on variability, heritability and genetic advance as % of the mean of yield and yield attributed attributes in prospective rice genotypes to support future breeding programmes for yield enhancement.\r\nMATERIALS AND METHODS\r\nThe present investigation was carried out at the Research cum Instructional farm Department of Genetics and Plant Breeding, College of Agriculture, IGKV, Raipur (C.G.). Quality parameters estimation was done at the crop quality laboratory (Dr. Richharia Research Laboratory). In Kharif, 2021, 42 aromatic and high-yielding rice genotypes were used including four checks: Chhattisgarh Devbhog, Chhattisgarh Sugandhit Bhog, Dubraj Sel.-1, Vishnubhog Sel.-1. The experiment was laid out in Randomized Complete Block Design with 2 replications. The observations were recorded for traits such as plant height, days of 50 % flowering, flag leaf length, days to maturity, effective tillers/plant, panicle length (cm), number of spikelets / panicle, number of filled spikelets/panicle, number of unfilled spikelets/panicle, spikelets fertility %, 1000 seed weight, harvest index, biological yield, grain yield / plant, grain length, grain breadth, L: B ratio, brown rice length, brown rice breadth, milled rice length, milled rice breadth, hulling (%), milling (%), HRR (%), cooked rice length, cooked rice breadth and amylose content (%). The observations were made on five competing plants from each genotype in each block that was randomly labeled. Finally, average values were calculated and statistical analysis was performed. \r\nRESULTS AND DISCUSSION\r\nAnalysis of variance. The cornerstone of any plant breeding effort is genetic variability. In terms of grain output and quality, rice varieties vary greatly. The huge variation in genetic makeup accounts for the enormous variability in the combinations of numerous yield-related characteristics. The presence of genetic variability is necessary for ongoing progress since it allows breeders to create new types and hybrids. Analysis of variance was performed on the replication-wise mean data for the fourteen quantitative traits and thirteen-grain quality traits for yield and its contributing traits of 42 rice genotypes. The analysis of variance revealed a significant difference in all of the attributes shown in Table 2. The results are in close harmony with Sao et al. (2004), Babu et al. (2012); Islam et al. (2015); Khaire et al. (2017); Adhikari et al. (2018); Saha et al. (2019); Rathan et al. (2019); Bhor et al. (2020); Priyanka et al. (2020).\r\nGenetic variability parameters. The assessment of heritable and non-heritable components in the total variability observed is indispensable in the adoption of a suitable breeding procedure. The heritable portion of the overall observed variation can be ascertained by studying the components of variation viz., range and mean performance, phenotypic and genotypic coefficient of variation (PCV and GCV), heritability in a broad sense and genetic advance as % of mean was computed for yield contributing characters in Table 3. Number of spikelets/panicle (83.4 to 294.5), number of filled spikelets/panicle (43.4 to 241), plant height (71.86 to 178.31), days to maturity (107.5 to 148), and milled rice breadth showed the widest ranges of mean variation. Milled rice breadth (1.47 to 2.36) showed the narrowest range of mean variation.\r\nCoefficient of variation. The phenotypic coefficients of variation and genotypic coefficients of variation were found to have a strong relationship for all characters examined. According to this study, estimations of the phenotypic coefficients of variation were higher than their respective genotypic coefficients of variation, implying that both environmental factors and genotypes participate in the apparent variation. According to a genetic study, the phenotypic coefficients of variation ranged from 52.52 % to 8.07 % ina number of unfilled spikelets/panicle and milled rice breadth respectively. The genotypic coefficients of variation ranged from 50.14 % to 7.02 % in a number of unfilled spikelets/panicle and milled rice breadth respectively. The number of unfilled spikelets/panicle (52.52 % and 50.14 %), harvest index (48.02 % and 45.77 %), grain yield / plant (43.78 % and 45.77 %), number of filled spikelets/panicle (33.3 and 29.73), biological yield (29.43 and 26.43), and number of spikelets/panicle (27.68 % and 23.33 %) are the characteristics with the highest PCV and GCV levels. Revealing that the genotype has enough variability and adopting individuals with these traits would assist in genetic advancement. The results are in agreement with Sao et al. (2004); Babu et al. (2012); Patel et al. (2014); Nayak et al. (2016); Khaire et al. (2017); Saha et al. (2019); Gupta et al. (2020); Noatia et al. (2021).\r\nHeritability (Broad sense). To communicate the accuracy of phenotypic value, heritability estimates serve as a forecasting tool. The range of heritability varied from 99.24 % in cooked rice length to 38.78 % in panicle length. The highest heritability was noted in cooked rice length (99.24 %), followed by days to maturity (98.44 %), days to 50 % flowering(98.09 %), grain length (96.00 %), brown rice length (95.68 %), milled rice length (95.58 %), cooked rice breadth (94.18 %), L:B ratio (93.53 %), number of unfilled spikelets/panicle (91.15 %), harvest index (90.86 %), brown rice breadth (90.48 %), grain yield/plant (89.34 %), grain breadth (88.54 %), hulling % (88.23 %), milling % (84.00 %), plant height (81.17 %), biological yield (80.67 %), number of filled spikelets/panicle (79.71 %), flag leaf length (77.52 %), 1000 seed weight (76.18 %), milled rice breadth (75.51 %), number of spikelets/panicle (71.01 %). High heritability values indicate that phenotypic-based selection will be advantageous for these attributes. These results are in conformation with Islam et al. (2015); Khaire et al. (2017); Adhikari et al. (2018); Amudha and Ariharasutharsan (2020); Behera et al. (2020); Noatia et al. (2021).\r\nGenetic advance as % of mean. High genetic advance as percentage of mean were found in characters like Number of unfilled spikelets/panicle(98.614 %), followed by harvest index (89.88 %), grain yield / plant (80.57 %), number of filled spikelets/panicle (54.69 %), biological yield (48.90 %), number of spikelets/panicle (40.49 %), 1000 seed weight (35.64 %), flag leaf length (35.56 %), L:B ratio (34.07 %), effective tillers / plant (32.05 %), milled rice length (31.15 %), brown rice length (29.10 %), grain length (28.51 %), plant height (27.63%), cooked rice length (25.76 %), HRR (21.22 %) and brown rice breadth (19.99 %). These findings are in accordance with those of Amudha and Ariharasutharsan (2020); Bhor et al. (2020); Kumar et al. (2020); Lipi et al. (2020); Mahamadali et al. (2020); Noatia et al. (2021); Priyanka et al. (2020).\r\nHeritability coupled with genetic advance as percent of mean. Determining the gene activity involved in character expression depends critically on estimates of heritability and genetic progress expressed as a percent mean. Breeders should use caution when making choices depending on heritability since it can disclose both additive and non-additive gene effects. It is better to have high heritability and a high genetic advance as a percentage of the mean, which shows that heritability is most likely caused by an additive gene effect and is least impacted by the environment. Relying solely on these traits will be advantageous for speedy grain yield development in advanced rice breeding lines due to their high transmissibility and variability. The high heritability (%) combined with high genetic advance as percent of mean was observed for plant height followed by flag leaf length, number of spikelets per panicle, number of filled spikelets/panicle, number of unfilled spikelets/panicle, 1000 seed weight, harvest index, biological yield, grain yield / plant, grain length, L: B ratio, brown rice length, milled rice length and cooked rice length. These results Sao et al. (2004); Babu et al. (2012); Patel et al. (2014); Nayak et al. (2016); Rahangdale et al. (2019); Bhor et al. (2020); Devi et al. (2020); Kumar et al. (2020); Lipi et al. (2020); Noatia et al. (2021).\r\n','Maradana Hemalatha, Abhinav Sao and P.K. Chandrakar (2022). Assessment of Genetic Variability Parameters for Yield and its Contributing Traits in Rice (Oryza sativa L.). Biological Forum – An International Journal, 14(3): 999-1003.'),(5404,'136','Assessment of Genetic Variability to Emphasizes the Yield and its Components in Bread Wheat (Triticum aestivum L.)','Vivek Kumar, L.K. Gangwar, Atar Singh, Nirdesh Kumar Chaudhary, Anjali, Raj Kumar, Pooja Tiwari and Chiranjeev','170 Assessment of Genetic Variability to Emphasizes the Yield and its Components in Bread Wheat (Triticum aestivum L.) Vivek Kumar.pdf','',1,'An experiment was conducted to find out the extent genetic variability for yield and its contributing characters in 40 bread wheat genotypes to contribute a significant work in order to wheat improvement programme. Research work has been conducted at SVPUAT, Meerut, (U.P.) in Randomized Block Design with 3 replications. Analysis of variance revealed substantial amount of variability among the genotypes for all the characters under study. The estimates of GCV in all the traits studied were lower than those of the PCV. Most of the characters displayed high heredity. High genetic advance coupled with high heritability (as % mean) were recorded for gluten content, grain yield per plant, biological yield per plant, harvest index and number of productive tillers per plants, showing that heritability might be to additive gene effects and direct selection for these traits may be successful. Thus these are traits which may be used for an effective breeding (hybridization) programme in order to improve yield in bread wheat.','GCV and PCV, Heritability, Variability, Genetic advance','It is established that there was sufficiently wide variation in the experimental material because the current analysis found significant differences for all the features under examination. High heritability coupled with high genetic advance observed for gluten content, grain yield per plant, biological yield per plant, harvest index, number of productive tillers per plants. Hence, direct selection of genotypes can be done through these characters for further improvement of genotypes of wheat. The estimates of PCV and GCV were high for characters viz., gluten content, and grain yield per plant. Moderate PCV and moderate GCV were observed for biological yield per plant, harvest index, number of productive tillers per plants. Variability analysis revealed that important agronomic characters namely gluten content, grain yield per plant, biological yield per plant, 1000 seed weight, number of productive tillers per plants and plant height. The study provides the opportunity to identify the promising genotypes which can be used in direct selection for further utilization in breeding (hybridization) programme.','INTRODUCTION\r\nWheat is world\'s leading cereal crop, cultivated near about 217 million hectares with a production of 731 million tonnes of grain with 3424 kg/ha productivity (2020-21). Among the three main cereals, wheat, maize, and rice the wheat is a staple crop that is essential globally and contributes significantly to daily protein and calorie consumption (Kizilgeci et al., 2021; Iqbal et al., 2021). India wheat production has touched the landmark figure of 108.75 million tonnes (3rd AE, 2021) from 31.76 million hectares (13.43% of global area) registering an all-time highest crop productivity of 3424 kg/ha (Annual report 2020-21, IIWBR, Karnal). After China, India is the world\'s second-largest producer of wheat (Kumar et al., 2019). It is primarily grown on the plains of India, as opposed to the mountainous regions of North India, the Nilgiris, and the Palani hills in South India, where it is grown in the hills. Wheat production is affected by several environmental factors responsible for yield losses over world including India. According to reports, drought and heat stress brought on by climate change have decreased wheat productivity and production by 5.5% over the past three decades (Daryanto et al., 2016). To fulfill the anticipated demand for wheat, it is necessary to create wheat cultivars with increased yield potential and biotic and abiotic stress resistance. One of the main factors limiting wheat yield and production is drought stress. According to Daryanto et al. (2016), 40% reduction in moisture availability in wheat might result in a yield loss of 21% on average. This requirement can be satisfied by creating high yielding cultivars with improved biotic and abiotic stress resistance. The complex polygenic trait of grain yield is highly influenced by genetic, physico-morphological, ecological, and pathological factors. A cultivar\'s and genotype\'s hereditary potential is reliant on stability and productivity. Genetically related to yield contributing features such as yield components (productive tillers, number of grains, 1000 grain weight, etc.), there genetic type and magnitude of association are accountable for realisation of yield potential impacted by altering seraphic, agroclimatic condition. Thus, it is essential to accumulate information on these aspects to resolve and quantify their mode of contribution to grain yield. Existence of large genetic variability is a prime pre-requisite for any breeding programme aimed at developing new varieties with high yield potential and yield stability. If a trait\'s heritability is high, it should be very simple to improve that trait. Heritability provides an index of the transmissibility to quantify the genetic link of a trait in the population. Genetic advance estimates provide insight into an experiment\'s mean performance improvement of the chosen clusters over the base populations. Breeding programme not getting proper flow due to lack of information of variable genotypes and traits regarding grain yield. Superior people can be chosen through selection due to genetic variance. Lack of genetic variation, loss of genetic diversity in better cultivars, substantial environmental variance encountered during phenotyping, and other variables have all made it difficult to breed wheat populations to tolerate dryness. Stalling yields and wheat\'s great susceptibility to environmental stress are both effects of genetic variety loss. (Keneniet al., 2012; Voss-Felset al., 2015).This aspect need an extensive research, as most of the quality constituents of wheat are having contrary relationship with yield. The present study aim to vanquish all these constraints and to help the breeders by providing the information about variability present in wheat in particular genotypes for yield and its contributing traits so researcher can utilize this for wheat improvement.\r\nMATERIAL AND METHODS\r\nThe present experiment was carried out during Rabi 2019-20 at Technology Park of SVPUAT, Meerut-250110 (U.P.) using 40 indigenous genotypes of wheat (Triticum aestivum L).The experiment was laid out in Randomized Block Design with 3 replication. All the recommended agronomic practices were followed to raise a good crop of wheat with keeping row to row spacing 20 cm. Observations were recorded on yield and yield attributing characters. All the observations were taken from each plot, on randomly five selected plants from each genotype. The data were recorded for the following characters: 1. Days of 50% flowering, 2. Days to maturity, 3. Plant height (cm), 4. Number of productive tillers/plant, 5. Spike length (cm), 6. Total number of spikelet’s/spike, 7. Number of grains/ spike, 8. Biological yield / plant (g), 9. Grain yield / plant (g), 10. Harvest index (%), 11. 1000 seed weight (g), 12. Gluten content (%). For statistical analysis, the genotype mean values from each replication were used. The procedures used to analyse the RBD were those that Panse and Sukhatme specified (1985).Heritability in broad sense h² was computed as a ratio of genotypic variance to phenotypic variance by applying the method of Allard, (1960). According to Johnson, et al., (1955) recommendation, the projected genetic advance under selection for the various traits was estimated.\r\nRESULT AND DISCUSSION\r\nAnalysis of variance. The analysis of variance revealed significant differences for all the 12 characters studied in 40 wheat genotypes Table 1 and it revealed that mean sum of squares due to genotypes were highly significant for all the characters under study viz., days of 50% flowering (21.45),days to maturity (114.84), plant height in cm (120.82), number of productive tillers per plant (1.04), spike length in cm (1.24), total number of spikelets per spike (4.68), number of grains per spike (23.67), 1000 seed weight in gram (8.90), gluten content in % (14.84), biological yield per plant in gram (79.10), harvest index in % (67.92), grain yield per plant in gram (14.17), . The results of the present study are in accordance with the Paul et al. (2006); Singh and Sharma (2007); Yousaf et al. (2008); Kalimullah et al., (2012); Ashish et al., (2020); Prasad et al. (2021) who had also reported the high variability in wheat for different traits.\r\nGenetic variability, Heritability and Genetic Advance. The study of genetic variability including mean, genotypic and phenotypic coefficient of variation, heritability and genetic advance presented in Table 2.\r\nPhenotypic and genotypic coefficient of variation. In the present study both phenotypic and genotypic coefficient of variation was found to be high for gluten content % (P 27.84, G 27.69) and grain yield per plant (P 21.12, G 20.97,). Similar observation were also reported by Kalimullah et al. (2012); Ranjana et al. (2013); Dutamo et al. (2015); Arya et al. (2017); Kumar et al. (2019); Prasad et al. (2021); Mohan, et al. (2022). Moderate PCV and GCV were observed in number of productive tiller per plant (P 10.89, G 10.60), biological yield per plant (P 17.70, G 17.55), harvest index (P 13.55, G 13.30). Low PCV and GCV were found for Days to 50% flowering (P 3.11, G 2.80), days to maturity (P 4.96, G 4.66), plant height (P 6.94, G 6.58), spike length (P 7.10, G 6.49), total number of spikelets per spike(P 7.29, G 6.80), number of grains per spike (P 5.85, G 5.19), 1000 seed weight (P 4.69, G 4.33).\r\nHeritability: High heritability observed in days to 50 % flowering (81.26), days to maturity (88.17), plant height (89.89), number of productive tiller per plant (94.75), spike length (83.59), total number of spikelet per spike (87.03), biological yield per plant (98.26), grin yield per plant (98.57), harvest index (96.40), 1000 seed weight (85.10), gluten content (98.92) . It is in confirmation with the results of earlier workers Kumar et al.,(2003); Saktipada et al. (2008); Ajmal et al. (2009); Kumar et al., (2012), Kumar et al., (2013); Fellahin et al., (2013); Bhushan et al. (2013); Desheva and Kyosev et al. (2015); Dutamo et al. (2015); Fikre et al., (2015); Arya et al. (2017); Ashish et al. (2020); Prasad et al. (2021); Mohan et al. (2022). Moderate heritability was observed in number of grains per spikes (78.51) which is according to the previous report by Desheva and Kyosev et al. (2015). \r\nGenetic Advance. High genetic advance were observed for number of productive tiller per plant (21.26), biological yield (35.83), grin yield per plant (42.88), harvest index (26.90), gluten content (56.73). These results were confirmed by earlier findings of Kumar et al. (2003); Saktipada et al. (2008); Ajmal et al. (2009); Kumar et al. (2012); Kumar et al. (2013); Bhushan et al. (2013); Desheva and Kyosev et al. (2015); Fikre et al. (2015); Arya et al. (2017); Ashish et al. (2020). Moderate genetic advance was observed in total number of spikelets per spike (13.06), plant height (12.85), spike length (12.22) which is according to the previous report by Kumar et al. (2012); Fikre et al. (2015). Low genetic advance was observed in number of grain per spikes (9.47), days to maturity (9.01), 1000 seeds weight (8.22) and days of 50% flowering (5.20) which is according to the previous report by Saktipada et al. (2008).\r\nHigh Heritability observed with High Genetic Advance for number of productive tiller per plant (94.75, 21.26), biological yield (98.26, 35.83), grin yield per plant (98.57, 42.88), harvest index (96.40, 26.90), gluten content (98.92, 56.73). \r\nHence direct selection of genotypes can be done through these characters for further improvement of genotypes of wheat. Such finding were earlier reported by Ajmal et al. (2009); Kumar et al. (2012); Bhushan et al. (2013); Dutamo et al. (2015); Arya et al. (2017); Kumar et al. (2019); Ashish et al. (2020); Mangroliya et al. (2020); Prasad et al., (2021); Mohan et al. (2022).','Vivek Kumar, L.K. Gangwar, Atar Singh, Nirdesh Kumar Chaudhary, Anjali, Raj Kumar, Pooja Tiwari, Chiranjeev (2022). Assessment of Genetic Variability to Emphasizes the Yield and its Components in Bread Wheat (Triticum aestivum L.). Biological Forum – An International Journal, 14(3): 1004-1008.'),(5405,'136','Storage Stability of Pseudocereal-based Carrot Pomace enriched Bakery Products','Harpreet Kaur Saini, Anupama Anand*, Ruchi Sharma, Aastha Verma, Anjali Gautam, Pooja Soni','171 Storage Stability of Pseudocereal-Based Carrot Pomace enriched Bakery Products ANUPAMA ANAND.pdf','',1,'Psuedocereals are gluten free grains, including buckwheat, amaranth and quinoa, known for their high quality protein and outstanding phytochemical composition. Present study was conducted with an objective of exploiting these underutilized crops for development of nutritionally superior gluten-free products, with an additional aim of utilizing carrot juice processing by-product. In this study, bakery products (biscuits and cake) were prepared using buckwheat, amaranth and quinoa flour and also by replacing some quantity of flour with carrot pomace powder (CPP). Three types of biscuits (buckwheat-based, quinoa-based and amaranth-based) were prepared and stored in polyethylene pouches under ambient conditions for 90 days and were subjected to chemical analysis at 0, 30, 60 and 90 days. Likewise, buckwheat-based, quinoa-based and amaranth-based cakes were prepared and stored in polyethylene pouches under ambient conditions. Prepared cakes were analyzed every 10 days for 1 month and it was observed that cakes remained acceptable up to only 20 days of storage and deteriorated on further storage, however, biscuits were microbiologically safe at the end of 90 days period. During storage there was non-significant increase in moisture, total sugar and reducing sugars of the biscuits, while the carotenoids, phenols and antioxidant activity decreased significantly. In case of cakes, ash, fat, crude fiber and protein content of stored products decreased non-significantly, while moisture content, phenols, carotenoids and antioxidant activity decreased significantly. It was found that partial replacement with CPP improved nutritional value of the products and CPP enriched products were comparatively more stable during storage than respective control. Therefore, the developed products are the perfect example of bio-waste utilization as well as hold the potential for solving the problem of protein energy malnutrition and diet restriction in celiac disease.','Psuedocereals, phytochemical composition, carrot pomace powder, bio-waste utilization','This work showed that it is possible to use pseudocereals flour for complete replacement of wheat flour in the preparation of bakery products with improved nutritional and health benefits. Nevertheless, the substitution of carrot pomace in pseudocereal flour improved the nutritional parameters of bakery products as well as their storage stability. In addition it has been observed that minimal changes occurred in nutritional characteristics of pseudocereal based cakes and biscuits during storage study. Furthermore, the use of pseudocereals and carrot pomace in bakery products pursued the objectives of study i.e., improving nutritional quality, gluten-free products, special organoleptic characteristics, and storage stability of pseudocereal-based bakery products.','INTRODUCTION\r\nPseudocereals are a class of foods known as “sub-exploited foods” that include non-grass plant species which are not members of the cereal family but have characteristics and functions similar to those of cereals. Pseudocereals are dicotyledonous, which makes them different from cereals (monocotyledonous) in terms of their botanical characteristics (Ciudad-Mulero et al. 2019; Schoenlechner et al., 2008), but the term “pseudocereals” is used because of the similarities between their grain’s starch content, texture, palatability, and cooking method. The most widely grown and researched pseudocereals are buckwheat (Fagopyrum spp.), amaranth (Amaranthus spp.), and quinoa (Chenopodium quinoa). Pseudocereals may offer an alternative with potential advantages in terms of nutrition in nations lacking biologically useful protein sources, as well as from a socioeconomic standpoint in times of constrained food supply. Pseudocereals can also enhance and broaden the diversity of natural resources from an environmental perspective. The importance of pseudocereals is economic, social, ecological, nutritional, and functional due to their agronomic traits, ecological resilience to challenging situations, and high nutritional content (Rodríguez et al., 2020). In the past 10 years, excellent nutritional content and agro-food potential of pseudocereals have been presumed.\r\nThe nutritive value of pseudocereal grains is chiefly associated to the presence of high-quality protein and dietary fiber. The protein fraction of pseudocereal flour is primarily composed of albumin and globulin, while the prolamin and glutelin-like proteins are present in small quantities. Moreover, gluten forming prolamins such gliadins and related protein fractions are completely absent, rendering these grains essentially gluten-free. The high concentration of vitamins B1 and B2, as well as the substantial amount of essential amino acids in its proteins, make buckwheat a nutritional powerhouse. It contains a lot of soluble carbohydrates, phytosterols, flavonoids, and other nutrients including thiamine-binding proteins, fagopyritols and D-chiro-inositol (Przybylski and Gruczynska 2009). Compared to other conventional cereal crops, amaranth (Amaranthus L.) has greater protein content (14-19%) and almost an adequate percentage of essential amino acids, which are abundant in lysine and methionine (Narwade and Pinto 2018). Flavonoids and tocotrienols are also abundant in amaranth along with minerals such as magnesium, potassium, phosphorus and zinc. Squalene molecules, which make up 6-7 per cent of it, can improve the immune system, manage lipid metabolism and have anti-aging benefits on the skin (Nascimento et al., 2014). Likewise, Quinoa is also a rich source of various macronutrients as well as high quality proteins and unsaturated fatty acids. Additionally, it has high levels of fiber, minerals, and low-glycemic index carbohydrates like polysaccharides. Moreover, antioxidants like tocopherols and flavonoids like quercetin and kaempferol renders quinoa a phyto-chemical rich grain (Wang and Zhu 2016).\r\nCarrots are a ubiquitous cool-season root vegetable that are grown in temperate regions mostly in the spring and summer and in tropical regions in the winter. Despite the fact that the carrot’s greens can also be eaten, the taproot is the component that is most frequently consumed (Di Donato et al., 2014). Carrot can be consumed raw as salad or can be processed into products such as pickles, juices, candy, preserve etc. Consumer demand for nutritious fruit and vegetable juices has led to an increment in juice production, as a consequence to which an ample quantity of pomace is produced. The food industry produces a lot of by-products, so it’s important to properly dispose of them in order to minimise environmental pollution. However, significant amounts of polysaccharides, polyphenols, carotenoids, and other useful components are present in these residual components (Stolarczyk and Janick 2011), which can be recovered and then used to create variety of functional foods. The aim of the present study was to investigate the storage stability of bakery products (biscuits and cake) developed from pseudocereals (buckwheat, amaranth and quinoa) and fortified with carrot pomace.\r\nMATERIAL AND METHODS\r\nA. Raw materials\r\nCarrots were procured from the fruit and vegetable market in Solan, Himachal Pradesh, while pseudocereal grains, such as buckwheat, quinoa, and amaranth, were acquired from the National Bureau of Plant Genetic Resources (NBPGR) Research Station, Shimla. The raw material was transferred to the Fruit Processing Laboratory at the Dr. Yashwant Singh Parmar University of Horticulture and Forestry in Nauni, Solan, Himachal Pradesh, for further use.\r\nB. Development of pseudocereal-based bakery products \r\nPreparation of pseudocereal-based biscuits supplemented with carrot pomace powder (CPP). Method standardized by Thejasri et al. (2017) for making biscuits was used, although with a few minor adjustments. Powdered sugar and fat (refined oil) were combined and beaten until the mixture was creamy. The above-prepared creamy mixture was added to the correctly combined other components (22-34% CPP and 66-78% pseudocereal flour), and the necessary amount of water was used to turn the combination into dough. After being well mixed for 10 minutes, the resulting dough was wrapped in aluminium foil and left at room temperature for 30 minutes. A consistent sheet of dough with a thickness of 0.5 cm was hand sheeted using a rolling pin. A cookie or biscuit cutter was used to cut the sheet into the desired shapes. The cut pieces were placed on baking sheets covered with parchment paper and cooked for 25 minutes at 150°C. Before packing, the processed product was allowed to cool to room temperature.\r\nPreparation of pseudocereal-based cake supplemented with CPP. The cake was made using a modified version of the standard recipe published by Kaur et al. (2018). In several experiments, different combinations of the components were tested, and the recipe that performed best in terms of the sensory metrics was chosen. Powdered sugar and fat (refined oil) were combined and stirred until the mixture was light and fluffy. Separately beaten eggs were added, along with the aforesaid combination, after they had already been mixed. CPP (28-34%) and pseudocereal flours (66-72%) along with other dry components (baking powder) were well combined and added to the foamy mixture. To produce a batter with the correct consistency, the entire mixture was repeatedly whisked. The prepared batter was placed onto a baking pan that had been oiled, and after being properly leveled and set, it was cooked for 30 minutes at 200°C in a preheated oven.\r\nC. Packaging and storage of developed products\r\nTo assess the quality of the biscuits throughout a 90-day storage period, they were packaged in polyethylene pouches (0.75 mm gauge), heat sealed, and stored at room temperature (1.9 - 29.7°C). The prepared cakes were also stored in polyethylene pouches (0.75 mm gauge) under ambient conditions and were subjected to evaluation of storage stability at regular intervals during 30 days storage period.\r\nD. Chemical Characteristics\r\nThe moisture and ash content of samples was determined using the method suggested by Ranganna (2009). Fat content of the sample was estimated using the automatic SoxTron fat extraction instrument (Model: Sox-2 version 0.1), protein content using semi-automatic instrument i.e. KjelTRON (KDIGB 6M & KjelDISTEA) and crude fiber content using FibroTRON-FRB-2 instrument by referring to the method given in AOAC (2012). The total carbohydrate content was determined by subtraction method explained by Ranganna (2009). Reducing and total sugar content was determined by volumetric method described by Lane and Eynon (1923). The total carotenoids content of products was estimated by solvent extraction method described by Ranganna (2009) and total phenol content of samples by the method given by Bray & Thorpe (1954). The optical density for above parameters of the samples was measured at using UV-VIS spectrophotometer (Shimadzu, Japan) and the concentration was determined as per the standard procedure from the standard curve. Antioxidant potential of raw materials as well as products developed was estimated using the DPPH radical scavenging method described by Brand-Williams (1995). Using methanol as blank, the optical density of sample was measured at 515 nm (till absorbance became steady) with UV-VIS spectrophotometer and remaining DPPH concentration was calculated.\r\nRESULTS AND DISCUSSION\r\nA. Storage stability of developed bakery products\r\nBuckwheat-based biscuits. Optimization of concentration of buckwheat flour and carrot pomace powder for development buckwheat-based biscuit was done on sensory basis and treatment containing 78 per cent buckwheat flour (BF) and 22 per cent CPP was selected for evaluation during storage.\r\nChanges in chemical characteristics during storage. Data pertaining to changes in nutritive value of buckwheat-based biscuits containing CPP is shown in Table 1. Results indicated that the moisture content, total sugars and reducing sugars content of biscuits increased during the storage, however, the effect was non-significant, while the total phenols, carotenoids and antioxidant activity of biscuits decreased significantly. Similar trend was observed in the findings of Nagarajaiah and Prakash (2015), Divyashree et al. (2016) and Soni (2019). \r\nMicrobiological characteristics during storage. The microbiological analysis of a biscuit made of buckwheat and CPP revealed no microbial growth on day zero. The microbiological investigation showed a marginal rise in total plate count (TPC) under ambient settings after 90 days. However, the growth observed was within the safe limits and the product was safe for consumption.\r\nB. Quinoa-based biscuits \r\nQuinoa-based biscuits were prepared using 72 per cent quinoa flour (QF) and 28 per cent CPP, as this combination was found most acceptable in terms of its organoleptic properties. The developed product was compared with control (100% QF) for changes in its chemical composition during storage period of 90 days.\r\nChanges in chemical characteristics during storage. Data related to the effect of storage on chemical characteristics of quinoa-based carrot pomace enriched biscuit is presented in Table 2. It is clear from the data that there was an increment in moisture content, total sugars and reducing sugars content of developed products. However, the phyto-chemical composition of products reduced significantly resulting in reduced antioxidant activity of the products. The results are in accordance with findings of Pasha et al. (2002) and Kausar et al. (2018).\r\nMicrobiological characteristics during storage. The total plate count (TPC) of the product was measured at mentioned intervals during storage in order to evaluate the microbial composition of quinoa-based biscuits. No microbiological growth was seen on the first day of storage, however during the course of the storage period in ambient conditions, TPC gradually increased. Results from the microbiological investigation of the product held in ambient conditions after 90 days showed that QB2 had a higher TPC of 5 × 103 cfu/ mL and QB1 had a lower TPC of 4 × 103 cfu/ mL.\r\nC. Amaranth-based biscuits \r\nTreatment combination containing amaranth flour (AF) at the concentration of 66 per cent and CPP at the concentration of 34 per cent was found best in terms of sensory characteristics. The developed product was evaluated for changes in its nutritional properties during storage and was compared to control (100% AF).\r\nChanges in chemical characteristics during storage. Perusal of data in Table 3 indicates that ash, fat, crude fiber and protein content of stored products decreased during 90 days storage period, accompanying the decrease in carotenoids content, total phenols and resultant antioxidant activity. Decrease in former components was found non-significant, while the later reduced significantly. The results obtained are in agreement with findings of Kumar and Barmanray (2007) and Wani and Sood (2014).\r\nMicrobiological characteristics during storage. Microbiological quality of amaranth-based biscuit was measured as TPC of the product at regular intervals during storage. There was absence of microbial growth at the beginning of storage period (0 day), but, with the advancement of storage period, a gradual increase in TPC of the product was recorded. At the end of 90 days, microbial analysis of product stored under ambient condition indicated higher TPC of 5 × 103 cfu/ mL in AB1 and relatively lower TPC of 4 × 103 cfu/ mL in AB2.\r\nD. Buckwheat-based cake\r\nBuckwheat-based cake was developed by replacing BF with 28 per cent CPP in the standardized recipe. Thus, BF: CPP ratio of 72:28 was employed for making buckwheat-based cake and developed combination was compared with control (100% BF cake) during storage period of 30 days at regular intervals.\r\nChanges in chemical characteristics during storage. An appraisal of results presented in Table 4 shows that moisture content, ash, fat, crude fiber and protein content of developed products decreased during storage. It is also evident from the table that there was significant reduction in total carotenoids, total phenols and antioxidant activity of products with the advancement of storage period up to 20 days. Nagarajaiah and Prakash (2015) and Mittal (2018) also reported a decline in carotenoid content in their studies on carrot pomace enriched cookies and pumpkin based-bakery products, respectively. Also, it was observed that storage beyond 20 days increased the microbial counts beyond acceptable levels and products was discarded and was not evaluated further.\r\nMicrobiological characteristics during storage. A total plate count was used to conduct a microbial study of the cake. The zero-day microbiological quality test confirmed that the cakes were microbiologically sterile. However, as the storage time progressed, a few colonies started to form. Up to 20 days of storage, the microbiological growth under ambient conditions was within acceptable limits (11 × 103 cfu/ mL in BC2 and 8 × 103 cfu/ mL in BC1). However, when the storage period extended over 20 days, visible growth began to emerge, and the product quality as well as safety was diminished.\r\nE. Quinoa-based cake\r\nFor evaluating the storage stability of quinoa-based cake, the treatment containing 72 per cent QF and 28 per cent CPP was taken and compared with the control (100% QF cake) for changes in chemical composition and microbiological quality during storage.\r\nChanges in chemical characteristics during storage. Table 5 shows the effect of storage on chemical characteristics developed products. The addition of CPP increased the moisture, ash, fiber and carotenoid contents of cake in comparison to control. Increasing and decreasing trend in chemical composition of quinoa-based cake was similar to buckwheat-based cake.\r\nMicrobiological characteristics during storage. On day zero, a total plate count of the product showed that it was completely free of microorganisms, but as the storage days progressed on, a few colonies started to form in the cakes. Up to 20 days of storage, the microbiological growth under ambient conditions was within tolerable limits (15 × 103 cfu/ mL in QC2 and 12 × 103 cfu/ mL in QC1). However, when the storage period extended over 20 days, microbial numbers increased considerably resulting in deterioration of products and the product was discarded.\r\nF. Amaranth-based cake \r\nAmaranth flour at the concentration of 66 per cent and CPP at the concentration of 34 per cent was selected for the development of CPP enriched amaranth-based cake.\r\nChanges in chemical characteristics during storage. Data pertaining to storage stability of developed products is shown in Table 6. Products were evaluated only up to 20 days of storage and were discarded later due to increase in microbial numbers beyond safe limits. Supplementation with CPP improved the crude fiber, total phenols, total carotenoids and antioxidant activity of the product. Storage stability of developed products greatly reduced during storage resulting in loss of its nutritive potential. \r\nSimilar effects of storage were reported by Antoniewska et al. (2018) in muffins made from amaranth, buckwheat and wheat flour blends and Soni (2019) in bakery products made from apple pomace and oat flour.\r\nMicrobiological characteristics during storage. Microbial evaluation of amaranth-based cake indicated the absence of growth of micro-organisms at the beginning of storage period (0-day analysis). However, as the storage period progressed, few colonies were observed in the stored product. The cakes became unacceptable at the end of 30 days but were safe for consumption up to 20 days having TPC of 21 × 103 cfu/ mL in AC1 and 18 × 103 cfu/ mL in AC2, which was within the safe limits. \r\nDISCUSSION\r\nSome of the important properties when assessing the nutritional quality and stability of baked products during storage are moisture content, crude protein, ash content, crude fat, antioxidant activity and microbial load. This study showed how nutritional characteristics can be significantly affected during storage period of baked products. An increase in moisture content of biscuit during storage was probably because of the hygroscopic nature of the biscuits and the higher moisture content of biscuits containing CPP might be due to high moisture absorbing capacity of fiber present in CPP. Similar increasing trend in moisture during storage of gluten free biscuit prepared by using rice flour, soya flour and BF was reported by Gogoi et al. (2020). In contrast, the decrease in moisture content of the cake was noticed during storage, which was probably due to retro-degradation of starch during storage and is greatly affected by the storage temperature and packaging material used. This could be confirmed by results reported by Li (2022) in his study on determination of quality characteristics of sponge cakes made from rice flour. Likewise, the changes in ash content might be correlated to biochemical activities occurring in the product and the decline in fat content of biscuit might be related to hydrolysis of triglycerides during storage or due to oxidation of unsaturated fatty acids with atmospheric oxygen and moisture uptake. A similar decreasing trend in ash and fat content of biscuits during 12 weeks storage was observed in biscuits made from composite flour containing 60 per cent sprouted sorghum flour, 30 per cent soybean flour and 10 per cent finger millet (Kumarasiri et al., 2018). Similar observations have also been reported by Nwabueze and Atuonwu (2007) while assessing organoleptic and nutritional properties of wheat biscuits supplemented with African bread fruit seed flour. The decrease in protein during storage may be due to splitting of protein molecules owing to the hydrolysis of peptide bonds by protease enzyme. Similar behaviour of crude protein was observed by Nwabueze and Atuonwu (2007) in African bread fruit seeds incorporated biscuits which confirm our findings. \r\nAn increment in total sugars during storage was probably due to partial hydrolysis of starch during storage and increment in reducing sugars might be due to the disintegration of polysaccharides to form reducing sugars. Similar trend was found in biscuits incorporated with buckwheat flour in study of Jan et al. (2015). DPPH inhibition potential (antioxidant activity) of the products decreased during storage period, which was probably due to oxidative degradation of phytochemicals such as phenols and carotenoids during storage, owing to their heat and light sensitive nature. These results are in accordance with the findings of Slima et al. (2022) where comparable decrease in antioxidant activity of cake formulated from Lepidium sativum polysaccharide was observed during 15 days storage at room temperature. The loss of carotenoids in the stored product was probably due to heat sensitive nature of carotenoids and their oxidative degradation during storage. Microbial study determined that initially, the pseudocereal based bakery products did not have any microbial contamination. However, as the storage period progressed, few colonies were observed in the stored product. The increase in microbial count might be due to the increase in moisture content during storage. Microbial studies indicated that the biscuits stored at room temperature up to 90 days and cake up to 20 days had better stability as the microbial count remained within permissible limits. The findings of Nagi et al. (2012) in cereal bran included biscuits and Hussain et al. (2018) in barley and buckwheat based cookies were supported our study’s findings.\r\n','Harpreet Kaur Saini, Anupama Anand, Ruchi Sharma, Aastha Verma, Anjali Gautam, Pooja Soni (2022). Storage Stability of Pseudocereal-Based Carrot Pomace enriched Bakery Products. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 14(3): 1009-1016.'),(5406,'132','Two New Distributional Records of Clerodendrum L. Species for Andaman and Nicobar Islands, India','Apurba Kumar Das, C. Sivaperuman','5_JNBR_11_1_2022.pdf','',1,'-','-','-','-','DasAK, Sivaperuman C.2022.Two New Distributional Records of Clerodendrum L. Species for Andaman and Nicobar Islands, India.J New Biol Rep 11 (1): 16 – 19.'),(5407,'132','Morpho-Molecular characterization of Beltrania pseudorhombica Crous & Y. Zhang: A new addition to mycoflora of India','Rashmi Dubey','6_JNBR_11_1_2022.pdf','',1,'-','-','-','-','Dubey R. 2022. Morpho-Molecular characterization of Beltrania pseudorhombica Crous & Y. Zhang: A new addition to Mycoflora of India. J New Biol Rep 11 (1): 20 – 23.'),(5408,'134','Comparative Efficacy of Holorrhena antidysentrica and Amprolium against induced Eimeria tenella Infection in Broilers','Suman Kumar, S. Samantaray and Ajit Kumar','102 Comparative Efficacy of Holorrhena antidysentrica and Amprolium against induced Eimeria tenella Infection in Broilers Suman Kumar.pdf','',1,'Anticoccidial efficacy of Holorrhena antidysentrica extract was assessed against induced Eimeria tenella infection in broilers and compared with amprolium. Experimental chicks were reared under coccidia free condition and maintained on coccidiostats free ration and divided into six equal groups. Broilers of groups I, III, and V, were infected with 20,000 sporulated viable oocysts of single line E. tenella. Birds of group II and IV were maintained as uninfected treated control, whereas birds of group VI were maintained as the uninfected untreated control. On the 4th-day post-infection, all the birds of group I and II were treated with H. antidysentrica extract, and birds of group III and IV were treated with amprolium. On day 28th, all the surviving birds were challenged with 40,000 sporulated oocyst of E. tenella. The anticoccidial efficacy of extract was assessed based on the bodyweight gain, oocyst per gram (OPG) of faeces, mortality rate, and lesion score during post-infection and post-challenge. The performance in terms of checking mortality was better with amprolium (15%) at the dose rate of 0.024 percent in drinking water in comparison to H. antidysentrica (20%) at the dose rate of 5ml/litre of drinking water. Whereas during the post-challenge period, the minimum mortality was recorded in birds H. antidysentrica treated group (58.33%), and he maximum mortality was recorded in the amprolium treated group (75%) as well as in the infected untreated group. Similar trends were observed for lesion score and OPG in pre as well as post-infection. The maximum body weight gain was recorded in the birds of amprolium treated group (908.88g), and the minimum in the birds in the infected H. antidysentrica treated group (904.4g). In contrast, among the uninfected groups, the maximum bodyweight was recorded in the birds of H. antidysentrica treated group (1009.5g), and the minimum in the amprolium treated group (1004.5g) whereas it was (705.5g) in the infected untreated group and (1002.5 g) in the uninfected untreated group. The immunomodulatory property of extract was assessed based on haemagglutination titre (log2) on post SRBC inoculation and Cutaneous Basophilic Hypersensitivity (CBH) reaction to DNCB injection. Results revealed that there was a significant increase in HA titre and CBH responses at 24hrs post-challenge in the birds treated with H. antidysentrica, indicating that it possessed an immunomodulatory property which could help in suppressing mortality, lesion score, and OPG and at the same time increase the body weight in birds of infected as well as control groups. Based on overall results, the present study suggests that the H. antidysentrica extract could alleviate the impact of infection by exerting an anticoccidial effect against E. tenella, which was lower than that exhibited by amprolium. However, further study need to be carried for isolation and identification of the active principles and their mechanism of action. ','Amprolium, Anticoccidial, Broilers, Eimeria tenella, Holorrhena antidysentrica','Based on the overall results, the present study suggests that H. antidysentrica extract could alleviate the impact of infection by exerting the anticoccidial effect against E. tenella, which was lower than that exhibited by amprolium. Moreover, it has added property of growth promoter and immunomodulation, which may be helpful in fighting with the other infections as well. Further research is needed to identify the active components and study their mechanism of action.','INTRODUCTION\r\nCoccidiosis is one of the earliest identified, ubiquitous intestinal protozoal infections of poultry caused by different Eimeria species and resulting in significant economic losses worldwide (Abebe and Gugsa 2018). The disease occurs as an outbreak, especially in a younger stock resulting in massive morbidity and mortality. Conventional disease control strategies have primarily relied on chemotherapeutic medication, but the increasing occurrence of drug resistance, the cost of developing new drugs, and legislative pressure combine to cause concern over the long-term sustainability of drug-based control measures (Williams, 1998). Limitations of the chemical anticoccidials compelled to look for safe and economical alternative phytogenic agents to control avian coccidiosis. Some of the herbs have already been reported to have the anticoccidial property (Youn and Noh 2001). For the present study, H. antidysentrica (Kutaja) was selected to screen its anticoccidial property against E, tenella, based on the previous reports (Tipu et al., 2006). It is a small deciduous tree with white flowers that belongs to the family Apocynaeceae and found throughout the dry forest of India (Gopal and Chauhan 1996). The present study aimed to assess the comparative efficacy of H. antidysentrica and amprolium against induced E. tenella infection in broilers.\r\nMATERIALS AND METHODS\r\nIdentification of the herb and preparation of extract: Barks of H. antidysentrica were collected from the vicinity of Patna, and the identification was established by Rashtriya Ayurvedic College, Patna. After identification, the collected parts were shade dried and ground into coarse powder and stored in an airtight container for further use. Finally, the alcoholic extract was prepared according to Nair and Bhide (1996) with certain modifications.\r\nPreparation of the infective inocula: In order to isolate the oocyst of E. tenella, coccidial lesions were noted in caeca, and caecal contents along with caecal scrapping were collected from dead birds. These contents were cultured in freshly prepared 2.5 % potassium dichromate solution kept in wide petri dishes and incubated at 21ºC in BOD incubator, as described by Richardson and Kendall (1963). Agar media was used to isolate a single oocyst of E. tenella. Five one-week-old chicks reared in the cage system were infected with single oocyst and maintained on anticoccidials free diet and water. Faecal materials and caecal contents, along with its scrapings from the infected broilers, were collected in 2.5% potassium dichromate solution for sporulation. The confirmation of the species E. tenella was done with the help of the morphological characteristics of sporulated oocysts, sporulation period, prepatent period, caecal lesion, pathogenicity, and clinical manifestation of the disease. The sporulated oocysts were counted by McMaster Technique as per the procedure described by Shashikala (2005) and used as infective inocula.\r\nChickens and diet: Clinically healthy one hundred twenty one-day-old Cobb- 400 broiler chicks of both sexes, weighing 48- 50 g, were obtained from a commercial hatchery and were reared on deep litter system of housing using rice husk with the provision of artificial light at night. The chicks were fed a standard prepared feed free from anticoccidials, starter up to 14 days, after that a grower diet up to 28 days and finisher up to 42 days. All chickens were allowed access to the diets and fresh and clean drinking water ad libitum. All the experimental chicks were kept under close observation during the entire period of study. \r\nExperimental Design: Individually, weighed chicks were randomly divided into six groups of 20 chicks. The experimental design consisted of six different oral treatment groups, as mentioned below: \r\nGroup I: 20,000 oocysts + alcoholic extract of H. antidysentrica\r\nGroup II: Alcoholic extract of H. antidysentrica\r\nGroup III: 20,000 oocysts + amprolium\r\nGroup IV: Amprolium\r\nGroup V: 20,000 sporulated oocysts of E. tenella\r\nGroup VI: Drinking water (control).\r\nOn the 14th day of age, broilers were infected by 20,000 sporulated oocyst of E. tenella, and treatments were started on the day 4th post-infection. On the day 7th and 14th of post-infection, 20 percent of birds of each group were weighed and sacrificed to record lesions score, and the caecal contents were collected for examination. On day 28th, all the surviving birds were challenged with 40,000 sporulated oocyst of E. tenella. Efficacy of the herbal extract was assessed on the basis of parameters like body weight gain, O.P.G. (Oocyst per gram), mortality percent, and lesions score. Immunomodulatory property of the extract was assessed on the basis of haemagglutination titre (log2) at 28th-day post SRBC inoculation as per the method described by Beard (1980) and Cutaneous Basophilic Hypersensitivity (CBH) reaction to DNCB application at 24 hours post-challenge as per the method described by Chauhan and Verma (1983) with minor modifications. \r\nRESULTS AND DISCUSSION\r\nThe results of the comparative efficacy of H. antidysentrica and amprolium against induced E. tenella infection in broilers have been shown in Table 1. The results revealed that the post-infection mortality percentage was recorded higher in infected broilers treated with H. antidysentrica extract than amprolium treated infected broilers; however, maximum mortality was observed in infected untreated broilers (group V). \r\n \r\nDuring the challenge, the broilers of infected groups which had prior exposure to the infection become immune did not show any mortality, whereas the broilers of uninfected groups which did not have prior exposure to infection, suffered clinically and shown higher mortality in amprolium treated broilers (group IV) as compared to H. antidysentrica treated broilers (group II). However, maximum mortality (88.33%) was observed in uninfected untreated broilers (group VI). The lowered mortality in the broilers of the herbal treated group was in agreement with the findings of the previous studies (Allen et al., 1997; Youn and Noh 2001). Some herbal extracts have already been shown to have a coccidiostatic activity (Allen et al., 1997; Youn and Noh 2001). In a similar study, Ghadage (2000) successfully reduced mortality in broilers from 36 percent to 12 percent by adding amprolium in combination with H. antidysentrica therapy.\r\nOn 7th day post-infection, the mean lesion score was found higher in H. antidysentrica treated infected broilers in comparison to amprolium treated infected broilers; however, the maximum mean lesion was observed in group V, and a similar trend was also observed on 14th post-infection as well. During the post-challenge period, a reverse trend observed, i.e., higher lesion score recorded in amprolium treated group as compared to H. antidysentrica treated group; however, the highest score (4.0) was observed in control group VI. No lesions were recorded in broilers of groups I and III, which had previous exposure of infection, whereas the mild lesion was observed in broilers of group IV as they did not recover completely from the infection. The result of the present investigation is in agreement with the finding of Yvore et al. (1980); Badstue et al. (1996); Huang et al. (2002), who observed lesser lesion scores in birds having prior exposure to coccidiosis. The decreased lesion scores in the broilers of herbal treated group as compared to the infected control group were in agreement with the finding of Youn and Noh (2001).\r\nThe broilers of all infected groups started shedding oocyst on the 7th-day post-infection, which reached the maximum on 8th day. The mean OPG calculated on 11th-day was found highest for the infected untreated group (group V), followed by H. antidysentrica (group I) and amprolium (group III) treated groups. Birds of all negative control groups (Group-II, Group-IV, and Group-VII), which were not infected, remain negative for any coccidian oocysts. Hayat et al. (1996) reported that herbal extracts markedly reduced the number of oocysts per gram of faeces. Lee et al. (2012) reported Gallarhois extracts were found effective in reducing faecal oocyst count against E. tenella infection in chickens.\r\nDuring post-challenge, broilers of all negative control groups which did not have any prior exposure infection started shedding oocyst on 7th day e.g., a day earlier to infected groups. The OPG started to decline from 10th day in control groups and 9th day in infected groups. Among control groups, higher OPG was recorded in the amprolium treated group as compared to H. antidysentrica treated group; however, maximum was observed in group V. In the infected groups, the highest mean OPG was recorded in the group I followed by group III and group V. Allen et al. (1997); Youn and Noh (2001), found that herbal extracts were effective in reducing oocyst output. In another study, Tipu et al. (2006) reported that H. antidysentrica had strong anticoccidial activity.\r\nThe data presented in Table 1 revealed that among uninfected treatment groups, there was no significant difference in body weight gain at 2nd and 3rd week of age but it was significant at 4th week of age and recorded the maximum in broilers of H. antidysentrica treated group and minimum in broilers of the uninfected untreated group. Whereas, among infected treated groups, there was no significant difference in body weight at 2nd week of age, but it was significant at 3rd and 4th week of age and recorded maximum in broilers of infected amprolium treated group and minimum in broilers of infected untreated group. All isolates of Eimeria cause significant weight suppression and impaired FCR (Logan et al., 1973). Michels et al. (2011) reported that an increase in weight gain was found when broilers were treated by Eclipta alba, with a reduction in excreted oocysts. Most recently, Gallarhois extract was tested for anticoccidial activity against E. tenella and found effective in reducing faecal oocyst count and improvement in body weight loss (Lee et al., 2012). Recently, efficacy of ethanolic extracts of Carica papaya leaves have been tested against coccisiosis as a Substitute of Sulphanomide, Nghonjuyi (2015).\r\nResults of immunological tests revealed a higher HA titre, and CBH response in H. antidysentrica treated broilers in infected and uninfected groups than broilers of other groups. These findings indicating that H. antidysentrica possess immunomodulatory property (Pathak et al., 2015) which could help in suppressing mortality, lesion score, and OPG and at the same time increase the body weight in birds of infected (during primary infection) as well as control group II (during challenge infection). No side effects of the herbal extract were observed in both infected and normal chicks during the entire course of the experiments. \r\n','Suman Kumar, S. Samantaray and Ajit Kumar (2022). Comparative Efficacy of Holorrhena antidysentrica and Amprolium against induced Eimeria tenella Infection in Broilers. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 14(2a): 614-617.'),(5409,'136','dcsd','dfcsd','172 Synthesis, Characterization and Biological Evaluation of Benzylidenes and ꞵ-Lactams Bearing Aza Heterocyclic Moieties Diksha Verma.pdf','',4,'fvf','dss','fdv','dvs','dfvs'),(5410,'136','Synthesis, Characterization and Biological Evaluation of Benzylidenes and ꞵ-\r\nLactams Bearing Aza Heterocyclic Moieties','Diksha Verma, Sunita Sharma, Tanvi Sahni, Amanpreet Kaur and Harleen Kaur','172 Synthesis, Characterization and Biological Evaluation of Benzylidenes and ꞵ-Lactams Bearing Aza Heterocyclic Moieties Diksha Verma.pdf','',1,'One of the most promising challenges faced by agriculturists is the control of crops against\r\nthe attack of pathogens. To overcome this, various fungicides like Carbendazim and Mancozeb has been\r\nused due to the presence of potential nuclei, nitrogen. In the light of importance of nitrogen nuclei, present\r\nstudy was carried out with the synthesis of benzylidenes 1-7 by reacting different aza heterocyclic amines\r\nand iso vanillin followed by synthesis of β-lactams 8-9 using chloroacetyl chloride that carried the\r\ncyclization of CH=N moiety in benzylidenes of 1 and 5 compounds. Structural elucidation of the\r\nsynthesized compounds using various spectroscopic techniques viz. UV-Visible, IR, 1H NMR, and 13C NMR\r\nalong with their elemental analysis was done. Synthesized compounds were biologically evaluated as\r\nantioxidants using phosphomolybdate assay and ascorbic acid as standard. In addition to this, fungitoxicity\r\nof the compounds was evaluated against pathogenic strains Rhizoctonia solani, Macrophomina phaseolina,\r\nFusarium verticillioides, and Dreschlera maydis. It was found that compound 1 was most effective against\r\nRhizoctonia solani and Macrophomina phaseolina while compound 6 was effective against Fusarium\r\nverticillioides. Compound 8 was proved better antioxidant as compared to other derivatives. Henceforth,\r\nthe present study highlighted the biological importance of aza heterocycles.','Aza heterocycles, Benzylidenes, β-lactams, phosphomolybedate, Rhizoctonia solani, Macrophomina\r\nphaseolina, Fusarium verticillioides, and Dreschlera maydis.','In conclusion, we designed various benzylidene\r\nderivatives of iso vanillin using aza heterocyclic amines\r\nfollowed by their characterization. Antifungal and\r\nantioxidant potential of the synthesized derivatives\r\nwere also done along with their statistical analysis. It\r\nwas observed that compound 1 exhibited better\r\nantifungal potential against three maize fungal strains\r\nviz. R. solani, D. maydis and M. phaseolina while\r\ncompound 6 gave better result against F. verticillioides.\r\nCompounds 8 (β-lactam ring with triazole moiety)\r\ndisplayed better antioxidant potential at all the\r\nconcentrations. Thus, it can be concluded that triazole\r\nmoiety has remarkable potential to be used as\r\nantifungal and antioxidant agents.','Arora, G., Sharma, S., Sahni, T., and Sharma, P. (2018).\r\nAntioxidant and Antimicrobial Activity of Some 2-\r\nPhenyl-1H-indoles and Benzimidazoles. Indian Journal\r\nof Pharmaceutical Sciences, 80(4): 739-744.\r\nAboul-Fadl, T., Mohammed, F. A. H., and Hassan, E. A. S.\r\n(2003). Synthesis, antitubercular activity and\r\npharmacokinetic studies of some Schiff bases derived\r\nfrom 1-alkylisatin and isonicotinic acid hydrazide\r\n(INH). Archives of Pharmacal Research, 26(10): 778-\r\n784.\r\nAli, S. M. M., Jesmin, M., Azad, M. A. K., Islam, M. K., and\r\nZahan, R. (2012). Anti-inflammatory and analgesic\r\nVerma et al., Biological Forum – An International Journal 14(3): 1017-1024(2022) 1024\r\nactivities of acetophenone semicarbazone and\r\nbenzophenone semicarbazone. Asian Pacific Journal of\r\nTropical Biomedicine, 2: S1036-S1039.\r\nBakshi, R., Sharma, S. and Arora, G. (2017). Clean synthesis\r\nof benzylidene derivatives containing 1,2,4-triazole\r\nmoiety. Indian Journal of Hetercyclic Chemistry, 27:\r\n43-49.\r\nChinnasamy, R. P., Sundararajan, R., and Govindaraj, S.\r\n(2010). Synthesis, characterization, and analgesic\r\nactivity of novel Schiff Base of isatin\r\nderivatives. Journal of Advanced Pharmaceutical\r\nTechnology & Research, 1(3): 342-347.\r\nChaubey, A. K., and Pandeya, S. N. (2012). Synthesis &\r\nanticonvulsant activity (Chemo Shock) of Schiff and\r\nMannich bases of Isatin derivatives with 2-Amino\r\npyridine (mechanism of action). International Research\r\nJournal of PharmTech Research, 4(4): 590-598.\r\nde Lange E. S., Elvira S., Dirk Balmer, Brigitte Mauch Mani,\r\nand Ted CJ Turlings. (2014). Insect and pathogen attack\r\nand resistance in maize and its wild ancestors, the\r\nteosintes. New Phytologist, 204: 329-341.\r\nDhar, D. N., and Taploo, C. L. (1982). Schiff-bases and their\r\napplications. Journal of Scientific Research, 41(8): 501-\r\n506.\r\nGrove, R. K., and Moore, J. D. (1962). Toximetric studies of\r\nfungicides against brown rot organism Sclerotina\r\nfruticola. Phytopathology, 52: 876-880.\r\nKaur, P., Sharma, S., and Gaba, J. (2021). Preparation and\r\nbiological activities of novel cuminaldehyde\r\nderivatives. Organic Preparations and Procedures\r\nInternational, 53(3): 240-253.\r\nLogin, C. C., Bâldea, I., Tiperciuc, B., Benedec, D., Vodnar,\r\nD. C., Decea, N., and Suciu, Ş. (2019). A novel\r\nThiazolyl Schiff base: antibacterial and antifungal\r\neffects and in vitro oxidative stress modulation on\r\nhuman endothelial cells. Oxidative Medicine and\r\nCellular Longevity, 1-11.\r\nMeena, P. N., Roy, A., Satpathy, S., and Mitra, S. (2021).\r\nEfficacy of strobilurin, triazole and propylene bisdithiocarbamate\r\nfungicides against Macrophomina\r\nphaseolina (Tassi) goid of jute. Phytopathology, 74: 45-\r\n51\r\nPandey, A., Rajavel, R., Chandraker, S., and Dash, D. (2012).\r\nSynthesis of Schiff bases of 2-amino-5-aryl-1, 3, 4-\r\nthiadiazole and its analgesic, anti-inflammatory and\r\nanti-bacterial activity. European Journal of\r\nChemistry, 9(4): 2524-2531.\r\nPrieto, P., Pineda, M., & Aguilar, M. (1999).\r\nSpectrophotometric quantitation of antioxidant capacity\r\nthrough the formation of a phosphomolybdenum\r\ncomplex: specific application to the determination of\r\nvitamin E. Analytical Biochemistry, 269(2): 337-341.\r\nSondhi, S. M., Singh, N., Kumar, A., Lozach, O., and Meijer,\r\nL. (2006). Synthesis, anti-inflammatory, analgesic and\r\nkinase (CDK-1, CDK-5 and GSK-3) inhibition activity\r\nevaluation of benzimidazole/benzoxazole derivatives\r\nand some Schiff’s bases. Bioorganic and Medicinal\r\nChemistry, 14(11): 3758-3765.\r\nSahni, T., Sharma, S., Verma, D., Sharma, P., and Kaur, S.\r\n(2021). Antioxidant and Antibacterial Evaluation of 2,\r\n6-dimethoxy-4-((phenylamino) methyl) Phenol and 2,\r\n6-Dimethoxy-4-((4′-nitrophenylimino) methyl) Phenol.\r\nBiological Forum-An International Journal, 13(4): 01-\r\n07.\r\nVashi, K., and Naik, H. B. (2004). Synthesis of novel Schiff\r\nbase and azetidinone derivatives and their antibacterial\r\nactivity. European Journal of Chemistry, 1(5): 272-276.\r\nVerma, D., Sharma, S., Sahni, T., Kaur, H., and Kaur, S.\r\n(2022a). Designing, antifungal and structure activity\r\nrelationship studies of Azomethines and β-lactam\r\nderivatives of aza heterocyclic amines. Journal of the\r\nIndian Chemical Society, 99(8): 100587.\r\nVerma, D., Sharma, S., Sahni, T., and Arora, G. (2020).\r\nGreen tamarind extract catalyzed synthesis of 4-\r\namino-1, 2, 4-triazole derivatives and their invitro\r\nantimicrobial activity. International Research\r\nJournal of Pure and Applied Chemistry, 21(11): 44-56.\r\nVerma, D., Sharma, S., Sahni, T., and Kaur, H. (2022b).\r\nDesigning, Characterization, and Antifungal Evaluation\r\nof Aza Heterocyclic Azo Compounds and their\r\nDerivatives. Indian Journal of Heterocyclic\r\nChemistry, 32(1): 125-134.','Diksha Verma, Sunita Sharma, Tanvi Sahni, Amanpreet Kaur and Harleen Kaur (2022). Synthesis,\r\nCharacterization and Biological Evaluation of Benzylidenes and Β-Lactams Bearing Aza Heterocyclic Moieties. Biological\r\nForum – An International Journal, 14(3): 1017-1024.'),(5411,'136','Assessment of Grain Quality Characteristics in Selected Rice Varieties of PJTSAU','Y. Sulochana, T. Kamalaja, T. Sucharita Devi and S. Triveni','173 Assessment of Grain Quality Characteristics in Selected Rice Varieties of PJTSAU Y. SULOCHANA.pdf','',1,'Rice is grown in almost all parts of the state in all seasons and all kinds of soils, and is rightly called as “Annapurna State bowl of India and granary of South India’’. In the present study five rice varieties viz. RNR15048, RDR1200, WGL44, JGL24423 and RNR 29325 of PJTSAU were selected and assessed the Grain Quality Characteristics. The findings of milling quality characteristics (Hulling%, Milling%, HRY%, and BRR%) were found to be no significant difference among all the selected rice varieties. While, the physical quality characteristics found a significant difference (P<0.01) in length, breadth, L/B ratio, 1000 kernel weight, and volume, whereas no significant difference was observed in bulk density among all rice varieties. Further, the chemical and nutritional characteristics showed a significant difference (p<0.01) in moisture, protein, fat, crude fibre, and amylose content, whereas the ash content of rice samples showed a significant difference (p<0.05) among them. From the study it can know that the selected rice varieties of PJTSAU had good grain quality which plays a pivotal role in uttering market price and adapting new rice varieties.','Milling quality, physical quality, Chemical and Nutritional quality, Rice Grain quality','The present study concluded that the selected rice varieties were not shown a significant difference in all the milling quality characteristics such as percentage of hulling, head rice, broken rice and milling recovery. While in terms of kernel length highest was found in the RNR29325 variety and lowest in WGL 44 variety and highest breadth in the JGL24423 variety and the lowest in the 15048 variety and the L/B ratio was highest in the RNR15048 variety and the lowest was found in RDR1200 variety. Further, chemical and nutritional quality showed a significant difference (p<0.01) between all selected rice varieties of PJTSAU. Then all the varieties are having preferable grain quality characteristics. Hence, the selected PJTSAU rice varieties can be popularised among the farmers.','INTRODUCTION\r\nRice is a cereal grain that supplies approximately 23% of the world’s human calories Kahlon and Smith (2004). In India rice is an important source of food and income for the farming community and it is a great source of complex carbohydrates, which is an important source of fuel for our body’s requirements. Grain quality is a general concept that covers many characteristics, ranging from Milling to biochemical properties. \r\n The value of each trait, for example, the length of the grain, varies according to local cuisine and culture. Milling properties like the yield of edible and marketable polished grain, degree of milling, and marketable polished grains are important characteristics in consumer preferences. Sundaram et al. (2007) explained the grain quality attributes of rice include its external appearance (size, shape, colour, chalkiness, and lack of defect or decay) and internal nutritional quality (Moisture, Protein, carbohydrates, and lipid content). Grains\' shape, uniformity, and translucence are crucial aspects of grain quality for consumers, millers, wholesalers, and retailers. \r\nThe main challenge for the rice industry is to maintain the quality of rice. Predictable expression of these traits across seasons and years gives the variety its reputation. The main objective of this study was to measure the Grain quality characteristics of selected rice varieties of PJTSAU in terms of milling, physical, chemical, and nutritional properties.\r\nMATERIALS AND METHODS\r\nThe selected rice varieties were procured from the Agricultural research station (ARI) Rajendranagar, Hyderabad. All the rice varieties used in this study are belonging to the same season i.e., Kharif. The paddy samples collected were stored in jute bags and kept at room temperature till further analysis.\r\nMilling quality characteristics of paddy such as Hulling%, Head rice recovery %, broken rice recovery %, and Milling % were analyzed as per the standard procedures of Sahay and Singh (2005).\r\nCalculations\r\nHulling %=(Weight of dehusked kernel (g))/( Weight of paddy (g) ) ×100\r\nMilling %=(Weight of polished kernel (g) )/(Weight of paddy (g) )×100\r\nHRR %=(Weight of whole polished grains (g))/(Weight of paddy (g))×100\r\nBRR %=(Weight of polished broken grains (g))/(Weight of paddy (g))×100\r\nPhysical quality characteristics such as Length, breadth, L/B ratio, 1000 kernel weight, Volume, and bulk density of rice were analyzed by using standard methods Sahay and Singh (2005). \r\nThe chemical and nutritional properties of rice will be analyzed by standard procedures viz., Moisture (AOAC 2005), Ash (AOAC 2005), Crude fiber (AOAC 1995), Fat (AOAC 1997), Protein (AOAC 2005), CHO (Gopalan et al., 2007), and Energy (Gopalan et al., 2007).\r\nAll the results were statistically analyzed to test the significance of the outcomes using percentages, means, standard deviations, and the analysis of variance (ANOVA) technique Snedecor and Cochran (1983).\r\nRESULTS AND DISCUSSION\r\nA. Milling quality\r\nMilling quality characteristics such as Hulling %, Milling %, Head Rice Recovery (HRR)%, and Broken rice recovery (BRR)% of selected rice varieties were depicted in (Table 1 and Fig 1). Hulling percentage indicates the amount of brown rice yield after removing the husk. Among selected rice varieties the lowest hulling percentage was observed in the WGL 44 (78.41±0.58) and the highest in the RNR 15048 (82.26±1.64) rice varieties. while the milling percentage was found minimum in the RNR 29325 (70.49±1.66) rice variety and maximum in the RNR 15048 (74.58±0.91) rice variety followed by RDR1200 (73.44±2.20) rice variety. However, the HRR was found lowest inthe RNR29325 (63.75±0.41) rice variety and highest in the RNR 15048 (73.23±4.40) rice variety. Further, the lowest broken rice per cent was recorded in the WGL 44 (30.17±0.59) rice variety and the highest was recorded in the JGL 24423 (37.40±3.77) rice variety. Statistically, no significant difference was found in hulling percentage, head rice yield, broken rice, and milling percentage among all selected rice varieties.\r\nSimilar observations were reported by Pandey and Gupta (2000), brown rice yield varied from 75.1% to 79.60 % whereas, the milling yield ranged from 67.01 % to 75.45 % at a constant time of polishing among eighteen varieties of paddy grown in India. Ravindra et al. (2009) also reported the head rice yield of brown rice ranges from 67.0 to 73.0 % and from 48.7 to 67.9 % after polishing. Hulling per cent ranged from 76.52% to 71.44% and the milling per cent ranged between 66.21-58.28 observed in pigmented rice varieties (Ponnappan et al., 2017). \r\nB. Physical quality\r\nPhysical quality characteristics such as kernel length, breadth and L/B ratio, 1000 kernel weight, volume, and bulk density of all selected rice varieties were analyzed and expressed in (Table 2 and Fig. 2). Grain size, shape, and L/B ratio are important characteristics that determine consumer preference and the commercial success of any paddy variety Krishnaveni and Shobha (2008). The length and breadth of the rice kernels were measured using Dial Micrometer by placing the kernels horizontally and vertically. \r\nThe highest grain length was observed in the RNR 29325 (6.92±0.31mm) rice variety and the lowest was recorded by the WGL 44 (5.04±0.08 mm) rice variety, and the statistical analysis showed a significant difference (p<0.01) between them. The higher grain breadth was recorded in the RNR 29325 (3.01±0.03) rice variety, and the lower grain breadth was recorded by the RNR 15048 (1.39±0.06) rice variety and the statistical analysis revealed a significant difference (p<0.01) among all the selected rice varieties. While, the L/B ratio was found to be highest in the RNR 15048 (3.32±0.28) rice variety, followed by the WGL 44 (3.08±0.07) and RNR 29325 (3.07±0.07) rice varieties, and the lowest was recorded by the RDR 1200 (1.77±.21) rice variety. Statistically, significant difference was found (p<0.01) among all the selected rice varieties. Based on the L/B ratio classification, the selected rice varieties were categorized into three different classes such as long slender (LS) - RNR 29325; long bold (LB) - JGL 24423; short slender (SS)-RNR 15048, RDR 1200, and WGL 44.\r\nThe weight of 1000 kernels ranged between 9.00±0.02g (RNR 15048) to 21.35±0.21 g (JGL 24423). While, the volume of 1000 kernels ranged between 10.25±0.25ml (RNR 15048) to 25.02±0.02 ml (JGL 24423) and the density of rice varieties ranged from 0.84±0.01 g/ml (RNR 29325) to 0.88±0.005 g/ml (RDR 1200) and Statistical analysis showed a significant difference (P<0.01) among all selected rice varieties. However, no significant difference was observed in bulk density.\r\nC. Chemical and Nutritional quality \r\nChemical and nutritional quality characteristics such as moisture, fat, protein, crude fibre, and ash, CHO and Energy were analyzed in triplicates, and the data were presented in (Table 3 and Fig. 3).\r\n Generally, moisture content plays an important role in storage as well as shelling and milling. The moisture content of the selected rice varieties ranged from 10.44±0.16 (RNR 29325) to 12.48±0.11 (RDR 1200). The results showed a significant difference in moisture content of all the selected rice varieties (p<0.01). Moisture levels commonly accepted for safe storage of rice are 13% for storage duration of fewer than 6 months and 12% for long-term storage Rosniyana et al. (2004). Therefore, the moisture content of all selected varieties was within the acceptable range indicating that the grains will have good keeping quality/shelf life.\r\nThe results of protein estimation of selected rice varieties ranged from 15.89±0.14 (RDR 1200) to 9.37±0.07 (RNR 15048). A statistically significant difference (p<0.01) was found among all the selected rice varieties.\r\nThe fat percentage among all selected rice varieties highest was found in the WGL44 rice variety (3.19±0.20) and the lowest was found in the RNR 15048 (1.37±0.10) rice variety and observed statistical difference (p<0.01) among them. The higher the fat content in food grains generally results in the desirable palatability of cooked form. Okaka (2005) stated that higher fat content exposes the grains to spoilage during storage due to oxidation.\r\nThe amount of ash present in a food sample plays an important role in determining essential minerals\' levels (Bhat and Sridhar 2008). The ash content of all the selected rice varieties ranged from 1.22±0.10 per cent (WGL 44) to 0.78±0.01 per cent (RNR15048) and was found statistically significant difference (p<0.05).These values are within the range 0.18±0.028 to 0.97±0.028 percentage reported by Shayno et al. (2011).\r\nAmong all the selected rice varieties highest crude fibre content was identified in RNR 15048 (0.49±0.0022) rice variety followed by the RDR1200 (0.39±0.0007), RNR 29325 (0.39±0.0006) rice varieties and the lowest content was found in JGL 24423 (0.29±0.0003) rice variety. Among all the selected rice varieties, a highly significant difference was found (p<0.01).The fiber content affects the rice digestibility (WHO, 1985) where by high fiber content in rice lowers its digestibility. In this case, the RNR 15048 rice variety with high fiber content had lower digestibility while the JGL 24423 rice variety with least fiber content would be higher digestible.\r\nAmong all the selected rice varieties the highest CHO content was observed in JGL 24423(74.78±0.01) followed by RDR 1200 (73.32±0.16) and the least CHO content was found in RNR 15048 (64.79±0.14) and statistically a highly significant difference (p<0.01) was observed among all of them. The mean energy values of all selected rice varieties ranged from 364.71±0.09 (WGL 44) to 308.97±0.05 (RNR 15048) and a statistically highly significant difference (p<0.01) was noticed among them. The results reported are in agreement with those reported earlier by OKo and Ugwu (2011). The high percentage of carbohydrate contents in the rice varieties make it a good source of energy.\r\n','Y. Sulochana, T. Kamalaja, T. Sucharita Devi and S. Triveni (2022). Assessment of Grain Quality Characteristics in Selected Rice Varieties of PJTSAU. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 14(3): 1025-1029.'),(5412,'136','Performance of Field Crops and Growth of Eucalyptus Clones under Eucalyptus based Agri-silvicultural System in Semi-arid Regions of Western Haryana','Ashish Kumar, Manish Kumar, Pawan Kumar Poonia, R.S. Dhillon, Vijay Daneva and Harender Dagar','174 Performance of Field Crops and Growth of Eucalyptus Clones under Eucalyptus based Agri-silvicultural System in Semi-arid Regions of Western Haryana Manish Kumar.pdf','',1,'The experiment was carried out to study performance of two different crops such as barley and cowpea with eucalyptus different clones. It was carried out at 29o09\'N latitude and 75o 43\'E longitude at an elevation of 215.2 m above the mean sea level situated in the semi-arid region of western Haryana, India. Experiment was laid out in Randomized Block Design. The observations revealed that growth and yield attributes of both of the crops had higher value or performance in sole cropping as compare to agroforestry system with eucalyptus. Whereas, among the eucalyptus clones it was found that C-413 perform better in tree growth parameters viz. tree height, basal diameter and diameter at breast height, while the growth parameters and green and dry fodder yield were found higher under the interspaces of C-83 clone. The reduction in yield may be due to less PAR (Photosynthesis active radiation) interception and available energy below the canopy of eucalyptus species in comparison to sole crop (open condition).','Eucalyptus, Growth, Agroforestry, Clones, Parameters','Among the eucalyptus clones it was found that C-413 perform better in tree growth parameters viz. tree height, basal diameter and diameter at breast height, while the growth parameters and green and dry fodder yield were found higher under the interspaces of C-83 clone. The crude protein percent in cowpea was found higher under C-413 clone while the crude protein yield was higher under C-83 clone. Thus, the study concluded that clones C-413 and C-83 were found suitable for agroforestry on the basis of the objective of management of eucalyptus based agri-silvicultural system.','INTRODUCTION\r\nThe population of the country is rising at an increasing pace, this has raised the demand for timber and non-timber wood products and ultimately also threatens the natural forest cover because of agricultural expansion and construction and industrialization. Besides this, managing the productivity of the soil is challenging the sustainability of the present mono-cropping system. These problems call for a holistic solution like agroforestry, which provides a dynamic land-use system that integrates both traditional knowledge and modern techniques where trees are managed with farm crops and livestock to enhance productivity, profitability, diversity and ecosystem sustainability. Along with this, agroforestry also helps in diversified and sustained food production and escalates ecosystem services through carbon storage, prevention of deforestation, biodiversity conservation, and soil and water conservation and ultimately, decreases the vulnerability of small-scale farmers to climate change in the long run (Murthy et al., 2013). Agroforestry is a means of halting the vicious circle of deforestation, soil erosion and other environmental problems facing the country (Sobola et al., 2015). In 2014, India became the first country in the world to adopt a national agroforestry policy. One of the major objectives of NFP 2014 is to encourage and expand tree plantation in a complementarity and integrated manner with crops and livestock to improve productivity, employment, income and livelihoods of farmers (Cooperation, 2015). In India, major Agroforestry systems are estimated to cover 25.32 million ha (Kumar et al., 2017). Agroforestry systems in the country are highly diverse in their function, structure, composition and on the basis of the climatic condition of the country and there are a number of multi-purpose trees species e.g., poplar, eucalyptus, teak, sal, acacias etc. that are found suitable for agroforestry systems depending upon the agro-climatic regions of the country. \r\nEucalyptus is one of the multi-purpose exotic trees that are most widely preferred for planting in cooperation with field crops because of its fast-growing habits, no negative effect on the production of field crops, straight bole, short rotation, higher density wood, higher timber production and returns (Luna, 2009). Eucalyptus is the second most widely planted species after teak, to be planted along the edges, or bunds, of agricultural fields, and appears to be well incorporated and accepted in agroforestry in India. In states like Haryana and Punjab, nearly 90% of the timber produced annually is generated outside the forests through sustainably managed plantations (Lal, 2010).\r\nEucalyptus is a genus of the Myrtaceae family endemic to Australia, Tasmania, and nearby islands. Eucalyptus plantations occupy more than 20 million hectares worldwide, especially in tropical regions (Iglesias et al., 2009; Laclau et al., 2010; Ribeiro et al., 2015). Productivity and profitability of eucalypt plantations have been revolutionized with the deployment of genetically improved clonal planting stock of Eucalypts since 1992. The average productivity of commercial eucalyptus clones is around 20 to 25 m3 ha-1 yr-1 and many farmers have achieved record growth rates of 50 m3 ha-1 yr-1 even under rain-fed conditions making clonal Eucalyptus plantations an economically attractive land-use option both for reforestation projects and agroforestry plantations (Lal, 2003, 2011)8, 9. Agroforestry and farm forestry promoted by the private sector with clonal eucalyptus plantations benefited thousands of farmers who planted 8 million ha from 1992 to 2007 (Piare Lal, 2015).\r\nMATERIAL AND METHODS\r\nExperimental site. Geographically, the experimental site is situated at 29o 09\' N latitude and 75o 43\' E longitude at an elevation of 215.2 m above the mean sea level situated in the semi-arid region of north-western India. The climate is subtropical-monsoon with an average annual rainfall of 350-400 mm, 70-80 percent of which occurs during July to September. The summer months are very hot with mean maximum temperature ranging from 40 to 45 °C in May and June whereas; December and January are the coldest months (lowest temperature may reach as low as 0°C). The soil of the experimental area classified as coarse loamy Typic Ustochrept according to Soil Survey Staff (1992), is alkaline but non saline and has loamy sand to sandy loam texture, low lime content and inadequate organic C and phosphorus. Nitrogen was also at a low level while potassium was medium in upper as well as in the deeper layers.\r\nExperimental details. The fodder crop was intercropped under a one year old, pre-established plantation of four different eucalyptus clones viz., C-7, C-413, C-83 and C-288 planted at spacing of 7×3 m during the kharif season of 2016-17. The randomized block design was used for assessing the variability of the clones and it was replicated three times. The standard package and practices as recommended by university were followed for raising of fodder cowpea crop. The fertilizer and irrigation requirements of trees were fulfilled from the irrigation and fertilizers application to the fodder crop. Growth measures of eucalyptus clones viz., Diameter at breast height (DBH), basal diameter, tree height and crown width were measured at the beijing and the end of the cropping season. Growth attributes of cowpea viz., plant population was recorded 20 DAS. Plant height and number of green leaves per plant were recorded at 50 percent flowering of cowpea. Fresh leaves and stem weight per plant, green and dry fodder yield of cowpea were recorded from each plot by quadrant method (using a quadrant of 1 × 1 m). Green leaves of cowpea from each plot were harvested, oven dried, grinded to powder form and analyzed for crude protein percentage by using formula \r\nCrude Protein (%) = N content (%) × 6.25 (Ezeagu et al. 2002)\r\nCrude Protein Yield = Crude protein content (%) × Total green fodder yield from cowpea (t/ha)\r\nRESULTS AND DISCUSSION\r\nThe growth parameters of eucalyptus clones differ significantly as shown in Fig. 1.\r\nThe C-413 clone was reported to exhibit maximum height at the beginning of the year as well as the end of the cropping season, while the minimum height was recorded under the C-83 clone. The maximum increment in height was shown by the C-413 clone closely followed by C-7, C-288 and C-83 clones respectively. Similar trend was recorded for basal diameter and diameter at breast height (DBH). The C-413 clone exhibits maximum basal diameter and DBH while these parameters are reported as minimum by the C-83 clone as shown in Fig. 1. However, the maximum crown width was reported by the C-288 clone that was closely followed by the C-413 clone. \r\nA. Growth performance of cowpea\r\nPlant population. The plant population (m-2) of cowpea showed a significant variation under the eucalyptus based agri-silvicultural system as depicted in Fig. 2. The number of plants per meter sq. was found maximum under the sole cropping system (crop devoid of trees) and among different clones, C-83 exhibits the maximum plant population followed by C-288, C-7 and least plant population was reported under C-413 clone. The reduction of plant population range from 25 to 68 % over sole cropping (crop without trees). Kiran et al. (2002) also revealed that plant population of wheat crop reduced up to 34 to 54 percent, respectively under Eucalyptus teretocornis and Dalbergia sissoo based agroforestry system.\r\nPlant height and number of leaves per plant. The plant height and number of leaves per plant were higher in sole cowpea in comparison with cowpea intercropped with eucalyptus. However the plant height and number of leaves per plant both were reported higher under C-83 clone, while least under C-413 amongst the eucalyptus based agri-silvicultural system. Kumar and Nandal (2004) also evaluated that the entire test crop sown in the interspaces of Eucalyptus teretocornis showed reduced plant vigour in terms of plant height, stem diameter, number of branches, number of leaves and yield attributes as compared to sole cropping.\r\nFodder yield of cowpea. The green and dry fodder yields of cowpea differ significantly under eucalyptus based agroforestry system. Both green and dry fodder yield were reported highest in sole cropping while under the eucalyptus based agri-silvicultural system, maximum fodder yield was found under C-83 clone and it was followed by C-7, C288 and C-413 clones. These results are in conformity with the findings of Rana et al. (2007) and Verma and Rana (2014) who witnessed a yield reduction in paddy and wheat (14.9 and 29.7 percent, respectively) under agroforestry system as compared to the sole cropping. Kaushal and Verma (2003) also reported the negative effect of tree were more on growth and yield of the crop which were grown in its close vicinity. Rahangdale et al. (2014) recorded that the soyabean (67.88 %) and moong (61.30 %) showed relatively higher reduction in grain and straw yield as compared to sesame (49.25 %) and paddy (34.00 per cent) under old bamboo based agri-silviculture system over the sole crops and this reduction in grain yield may be due to less PAR (Photosynthesis active radiation) interception and available energy below the canopy of bamboo species in comparison to sole crop (open condition).\r\nCrude protein content and yield. The crude protein content and crude protein yield of cowpea showed a significant variation as shown in Fig. 2. The maximum crude protein content was found under C-413 clone followed by C-288, C-83 and C-7 clones. The minimum crude protein content was however minimum in sole cropping. However, the crude protein yield was found maximum under sole cropping (crop devoid of trees) followed by C-83 clone and minimum under the interspaces of C-413 clone.\r\nB. Growth performance of Barley\r\nPlant population of barley. Plant population of barley varies significantly among different clones of eucalyptus. Amongst different eucalyptus clones, maximum number of plants was recorded under the interspaces of C- 83 clone and least under C-413 clone (Fig. 3). However, highest number of plant population was still under sole cropping (crop without trees).These results follow the pattern as same given by Khan et al. (2008) who found that aqueous extract of Eucalyptus camaldulensis inhibit the germination of wheat as compared to control treatment.\r\nPlant height. Plant height of barley crop differed significantly under eucalyptus based agri-silvicultural system. Sole cropping (crop devoid of trees) exhibited maximum plant height at each observation followed by C-83 clone and least under C-413 clone (Fig. 3). Kumar et al. (2013) also found that less height of wheat under Eucalyptus plantation due to reduced light intensity under Eucalyptus.\r\nNumber of tillers and spikes. The number of tillers (/m2) showed a significant variation under different eucalyptus clones at each observation (Fig. 4). The maximum number of tillers were recorded under C-83 clone and followed by C-288, C-7 and least under C-413. However, the maximum number of tillers was higher under sole cropping devoid of trees. The maximum number of spikes per plant was also highest under sole cropping and least under C-413 clone. Similarly Khan et al. (2008); Kumar et al. (2013) also observed lesser number of tillers under agroforestry system than sole cropping.\r\nGrains per spike and test weight. Grains per spike and test weight both show a significant variation of similar trend under the interspaces of eucalyptus clones. Both were recorded higher under sole cropping as compared to the interspaces of different eucalyptus clones (Fig. 5). Amongst the clones, C-83 exhibited maximum numbers of grains as well as test weight and least were recorded under C-413 clone. In the same pattern Daniel and Larkin (2017) also reported that grain per spike was more in control than agroforestry system.\r\nGrain yield and straw yield of barley. The grains and straw yield of barley differed significantly under interspaces of eucalyptus clones. Both grain yield as well as straw yield was higher in sole cropping as compared to under eucalyptus clones (Fig. 5). C-83 clone showed maximum grain and straw yield closely followed by C-288 clone. The yield of barley was highly affected under the interspaces of C-413 and C-7 clones. As per the above finding Kumar et al. (2013) conducted a field experiment on wheat and mustard under Eucalyptus teriticornis and found that grain yield of both crops is decreased significantly as compared to sole cropping. The reduction (63.2%) was less in wheat. Sarvade et al. (2014) found that highest grain yield (36.0q ha) was under open farming system. The reduction in grain yield was 16-62% under agroforestry system as compared to sole crop.','Ashish Kumar, Manish Kumar, Pawan Kumar Poonia, R.S. Dhillon, Vijay Daneva and Harender Dagar (2022). Performance of Field Crops and Growth of Eucalyptus Clones under Eucalyptus based Agri-silvicultural System in Semi-arid Regions of Western Haryana. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 14(3): 1030-1035.'),(5413,'136','System Productivity and Nutrient Recoveries as Influenced by Nine Years of Long-term INM Practices under Acidic Inceptisols of India','S.K. Sahoo, K.N. Mishra, N. Panda, R.K. Panda, K. Padhan, S. Mohanty, K. Kumar and D. Sethi','175 System Productivity and Nutrient Recoveries as Influenced by Nine Years of Long-term INM Practices under Acidic Inceptisols of India S.K. SAHOO.pdf','',1,'The long term intensive cropping system in acid soil without proper soil management leads to unsustainable crop productivity. Therefore, integrated nutrient management with various combinations of inorganics, organics, bioinoculants, and amendments in acidic soils can be the most effective way to sustain soil health and increase in crop productivity. A long-term field experiment was conductedin an acid Inceptisols of Odisha, India since 2010 to assess the effect ofintegrated nutrient management practices on system productivity and nutrient recoveriesin a sweetcorn-knolkhol-blackgram cropping system at the end of 9th cropping cycle (2018-19). The highest yield was recorded in T8 (STD + VC + Lime + BF) followed by T7, T6, T5, T3, T4, T9, T2, and T1 in sweetcorn but in knolkhol and blackgram the yield sequence was T8>T7>T6>T5>T4>T3>T9>T1>T2. The total dry matter production of the cropping system was highest (13.44 t ha-1) in T8 followed by T7 (13.28 t ha-1), T6 (11.28 t ha-1), T5 (11.07 t ha-1), T4 (10.33 t ha-1), T3 (10.19 t ha-1), T9 (4.97 t ha-1), T2 (4.64 t ha-1) and lowest was in T1 (4.00 t ha-1). The system N, P and K uptake was highest (195 kg ha-1, 47 kg ha-1 and 196 kg ha-1) and lowest was in T1 (38 kg ha-1, 12 kg ha-1 and 36 kg ha-1). The recovery of nutrients in only inorganic package was lowest (6 % N, 7% P, and 8% K) while the highest was in T8 (44 % N, 30 % P, and 86 % K). ','Sweetcorn-knolkhol-blackgram cropping system, productivity, nutrient uptake, nutrient recoveries, INM.','The long-term integrated nutrient management practices after nine years of field experimentation resulted in higher economic yield, system total dry matter production, nutrient uptake, and recoveries. The soil management through liming of problematic soil like acid soil improved the economic yield, dry matter production, nutrient uptake, and recovery in comparison to the non-application of lime package. The efficiency of biofertilizer with liming was more in comparison to non-liming packages. The study showed that integrated nutrient management with various combinations of inorganics, organics, amendments, and microbial inoculants in problematic acid soils resulted in the most effective way of increasing system productivity under a cereal-vegetable-pulse cropping system.','INTRODUCTION\r\nAchieving food security for a burgeoning population ina country like India, higher food production on existing croplands through enhanced nutrient input and recycling is essential (Jena & Pattanayak 2021). Intensive and continuous cropping without proper soil management may lead to a threat to the sustainability of agriculture. In problematic soils like acidic conditions, sustainable production has become a major concern in India. The adoption of integrated nutrient management practices involving organic and inorganic fertilizers is the best approach to make the production system more sustainable and profitable (Sarkar et al., 2020). Crop production in acidic soil is mainly inhibited due to aluminium and iron toxicity, P deficiency, declined microbial activity, low base saturation, and other acidity-induced nutritional and fertility problems (Kumar et al., 2012; Pattanayak & Sarkar 2016).\r\nThe biofertilizer application with soil amelioration enhances the productivity of cropsby maintaining soil fertility (Khuntia et al., 2022; Sethi et al., 2021). The application of native strains also improves the bioavailability of essential nutrients in the soil. The inoculation of native rhizobium strain enhances the nodular properties, and N- availability and enhances the biological activity at the pulse rhizosphere (Sethi et al., 2019b). The stress-tolerant native strains provide the ambient condition at the rhizosphere by producing exopolysaccharides to make the rhizosphere un-hydrated and produce phytohormones (Sethi et al., 2019a; Subudhi et al., 2020) and nutrient availability (Pattanayak & Sethi 2022). Nutrient management through agro-waste management is an eco-friendly approach (Pandit et al., 2020). The application of in-situ crop residue management enhances the soil\'s physical, biological and chemical properties (Pattanayak & Sethi 2022). The application of organic inputs like farm yard manure and vermicompost increases soil quality. Application of vermicompost having a C:N ratio below 15 is desirable for agronomic use (Pandit et al., 2020).\r\nLong-term integrated nutrient management practices increase soil quality (Garnaik et al., 2022; Swain et al., 2021) and INM practice is a potential tool for knowing the crop yields and yield trends. They are used to assess the sustainability of the system, the potential carrying capacity of the soil, and to predict soil productivity (Reddy et al., 2006). Inadequate and imbalanced fertilizer use and the emergence of multiple nutrient deficiencies are the major factors responsible for the low productivity of the crops (Tiwari, 2002). Therefore, to maintain crop productivity balanced use of nutrients is important. Under these circumstances, the integration of chemical and organic sources and their management have shown promising results not only in sustaining productivity but have also proved to be effective in maintaining soil health and enhancing nutrient use efficiency (Thakur et al., 2011). When integrated nutrient management through chemical fertilizers and different organic sources are applied on a long-term basis, they show a beneficial impact on crop productivity (Swarup, 2010). Therefore, the present study was undertaken to study the long-term effect of integrated nutrient management practices on nutrient uptake, nutrient recovery, and system productivity of sweetcorn, knolkhol, and blackgram in an acid Inceptisols.\r\nMATERIAL AND METHODS\r\nThe present field experiment was performed on the farmland of “AINP on Soil Biodiversity - Biofertilizers” inthe College of Agriculture, Odisha University of Agriculture and Technology, Bhubaneswar (20.26°N latitude, 85.81°E longitude and 25.9 m above mean sea level) since 2010. However, observations were taken during 2018-19 (after nine years of experimentation) to study the effect of long-term integrated nutrient management on system productivity and nutrient recoveries of sweetcorn, knolkhol, and blackgram in a cereal-vegetable-pulse cropping system. The experimental area falls under a subhumid tropical climate. The mean annual rainfall was 1577 mm, and the mean maximum and minimum temperatures were 33.2 and 21.4°C, respectively.\r\nThe soils of the site belong to Inceptisols order with acidic soil reaction.The experiment was laid out in a randomized block design (RBD) having three replications with treatments consisting of T1 (control), T2 Soil Test Dose of fertilizer (STD), T3 (STD + FYM), T4 (STD + VC), T5 (STD + FYM + BF), T6 (STD + VC + BF), T7 (STD + FYM + Lime + BF), T8 (STD + VC + Lime + BF), and T9 (1/2 STD + BF). The soil test dose of fertilizer was given to the cropsviz; 150:20:48 for sweetcorn, 125:38:63 for knolkhol, and 25:30:25 for blackgram in the form of N:P2O5:K2O kg ha-1. Lime was applied @ 0.1 LR to sweetcorn and @0.2 LR to knolkhol and blackgram crop. Standard methods were adopted for the analysis of soil and organic inputs to fix the soil test dose of fertilizers (Page et al., 1982; Panda, 2019). Organic sources applied were farm yard manure (FYM) @ 5t ha-1 and vermicompost (VC) @ 2.5 t ha-1to each crop. Biofertilizers (BF) like Rhizobium to Blackgram and Azotobacter, Azospirillum, and PSB (@1:1:1) to Knolkhol and Sweetcorn. The crop residues were incorporated into the soil after harvesting the economic yield potion of each crop. The total nutrients added to the cropping system in that cropping year are presented in Table 1.\r\nThe economic yield was recorded by taking the fresh weight of sweetcorn, knolkhol, and sundry weight of blackgram (moisture 12%) and expressed in t ha-1. The dry matter production was calculated by taking 100 g of each treatment on respective crops kept in an oven at 65oC till constant weight was recorded. The dry matter production was expressed in t ha-1. The system uptake was calculated by adding each crop uptake and recovery was also calculated by taking each crop recovery. In each crop, uptake and recovery of each nutrient were calculated by using the formulae given below.\r\nThe data were analyzed by using OPSTAT software developed by O.P. Sheoran, Chaudhary Charan Singh, Haryana Agricultural University, Hisar, Haryana, India (Sheoran et al., 1998).\r\nRESULT AND DISCUSSION\r\nInfluence of long-term INM practice on economic yield\r\nThe data relating to economic yield has been presented in Table 2. The sweetcorn yield varied between 2.93 t ha-1 to 8.93 t ha-1. The lowest yield (2.93 t ha-1) was estimated in control and the highest (8.93 t ha-1) was estimated in the package where soil test-based fertilizer was applied with vermicompost, lime, and biofertilizers. The sequence of yield followed as T8>T7>T6>T5>T3>T4>T2>T9>T1. The knolkhol yield varied between 1.64 t ha-1 and 24.21 t ha-1. The highest yield (24.21 t ha-1) was recorded in T8 (STD + VC + Lime + BF) followed by T7 (23.64 t ha-1), T6 (18.71 t ha-1), T5 (18.35 t ha-1), T4 (13.78 t ha-1), T3 (13.24 t ha 1), T9 (4.2 t ha-1), T1 (1.89 t ha-1) and T2 (1.64 t ha-1). \r\nThe blackgram yield ranged from 0.20 t ha-1 to 0.89 t ha-1. The highest yield (0.89 t ha-1) of blackgram was estimated in the package where the soil test dose of fertilizers was added with 2.5 t ha-1 vermicompost, lime, and biofertilizers (T8) followed by T7, T6, T5, T4, T3, T9, T1 and lowest was recorded in the package where only chemical fertilizers were added (T2). The yield reduction in the treatment (T2) may be due to the long-term addition of only chemical fertilizers to the acid soil creating further acidification to such a range where sensitive crops like blackgram and knolkhol didn’t sustain their yield. The sweetcorn equivalent yield was highest (14.78) in T8 followed by T7, T6, T5, T4, T3, T9, T2, and the lowest was in T1 treatment. The yield of all three crops was higher in the vermicompost applied packages than in FYM applied packages. \r\nThe lime application enhances 23-25 per cent, 29 per cent, and 33per cent higher yield in sweetcorn, knolkhol,and blackgram, respectively, with integrated packages than without lime integrated packages. This positive response in the limed package was due to neutralizing soil acidity (Pattanayak & Sarkar 2016) and enhancing the bioavailability of plant nutrients (Priyadarshini et al., 2017; Sethi et al., 2017). The biofertilizer application with lime in acid soil also enhanced the yield it was due to the creation of a congenial rhizospheric environment for the growth of inoculated microbes (Sethi et al., 2017, 2021). Integrated nutrient management enhanced the yield of all three crops. The similar findings of INM enhanced the yield of coriander(Priyadarshini et al., 2017), sweetcorn (Prusty, Dash et al., 2022; Prusty Swain, et al., 2022), finger millet (Swain et al., 2021), Fenugreek (Husain et al., 2022), Papaya (Reena et al., 2022) and cereal -vegetable-pulse cropping system (Jena & Pattanayak 2021).\r\nInfluence of INM practice on dry matter production. The dry matter production of crops in cropping sequence has been presented in Table 3. The dry matter production of sweetcorn was more than knolkhol and blackgram. In sweetcorn, the highest dry matter (6.74 t ha-1) was recorded in an integrated nutrient management practice where a soil test dose of fertilizerwas applied with vermicompost, lime, and biofertilizer followed by STD + FYM + Lime + BF (6.68 t ha-1), STD + VC + BF (5.41 t ha-1), STD + FYM + BF (5.33 t ha-1), STD + VC (5.24t ha-1), STD + FYM (5.14 t ha-1), STD (2.67 t ha-1), 1/2 STD + BF (2.54 t ha-1), and lowest was recorded in control (1.91 t ha-1). The dry-matter production in knolkhol was lesser in comparison to sweetcorn and blackgram. The dry matter of knolkhol was highest in T8 (3.17 t ha-1) followed by T7 (3.11 t ha-1), T6 (2.64 t ha-1), T5 (2.49 t ha-1), T4 (2.22 t ha-1), T3 (2.19 t ha-1), T9 (0.61 t ha-1), T1 (0.52 t ha-1) and lowest was in T2 (0.37 t ha-1). The blackgram drymatter varied between 1.57 t ha-1 and 3.53 t ha-1.\r\nThe highest dry matter production was recorded in integrated packages with soil management package followed by without management package, without biofertilizer inoculation, sub-optimal dose of NPK with biofertilizer, control, and only soil test dose of fertilizer. The total dry matter production of the cropping system was highest (13.44 t ha-1) in T8 followed by T7 (13.28 t ha-1), T6 (11.28 t ha-1), T5 (11.07 t ha-1), T4 (10.33 t ha-1), T3 (10.19 t ha-1), T9 (4.97 t ha-1), T2 (4.64 t ha-1) and lowest was in T1 (4.00 t ha-1). The dry matter production in the integrated package was due to the application of adequate nutrients during the crop growth period. Similar findings have been reported by(Jena & Pattanayak, 2021; Khadadiya et al., 2020).\r\nInfluence of long-term INM practices on system nutrient uptake (kg ha-1) and recoveries (%). The data relating to system nutrient uptake has been presented in Table 4. The system N uptake was highest (195 kg ha-1) in the package where STD + VC + Lime + BF (T8) followed by STD + FYM + Lime + BF(194 kg ha-1), STD + VC + BF (140 kg ha-1), STD + FYM + BF (154 kg ha-1), STD + VC (116 kg ha-1), STD + FYM (123 kg ha-1), 1/2 STD + BF (64 kg ha-1), STD (58 kg ha-1), and lowest was in control (38 kg ha-1). The phosphorus uptake by the cropping system varied between 12 kg ha-1 and 47 kg ha-1.The highest (47 kg ha-1) phosphorus uptake was estimated in T8 followed by T7 ( 42 kg ha-1), T6 and T5 (39 kg ha-1), T4 (35 kg ha-1), T3 (32 kg ha-1), T2 and T9 (18 kg ha-1) and lowest (12 kg ha-1) was estimated in control. The potassium uptake ranged from 36 kg ha-1 to 196 kg ha-1. The highest was in T8 (196 kg ha-1) followed by T7 (183 kg ha-1), T6 (159 kg ha-1), T5 (154 kg ha-1), T4 (139 kg ha-1), T3 (138 kg ha-1), T9 (64 kg ha-1), T2 (46 kg ha-1) and lowest (36 kg ha-1) was in control.\r\nThe application of organic manures along with inorganic fertilizers significantly (p=0.05) increased the NPK uptake in the system. The application of biofertilizers with organics and inorganics influenced the uptake of N, P, and K significantly (p=0.05). Likewise, the amelioration of acid soil with the integration of all the components increased the nutrient uptake in the system. A similar finding was reported by (Swain et al., 2021) in finger milletand (Prusty, Swain, et al., 2022) in sweetcorn. The influence of long-term INM practice on N, P, and K recovery has been presented in Fig 1. The recovery of nutrients in the only inorganic package was lowest (6 % N, 7% P, and 8% K) and the highest was in T8 (44 % N, 30 % P, and 86 % K). The recovery of nitrogen, phosphorus, and potassium was more in ameliorated package followed by inorganics + organics + biofertilizers package, inorganics + organics, ½ inorganics + biofertilizers and the lowest was in only inorganic added package.\r\n','S.K. Sahoo, K.N. Mishra, N. Panda, R.K. Panda, K. Padhan, S. Mohanty, K. Kumar and D. Sethi (2022). System Productivity and Nutrient Recoveries as Influenced by Nine Years of Long-term INM Practices under Acidic Inceptisols of India. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 14(3): 1036-1040.'),(5414,'136','Influence of Integrated use of Organic and Inorganic Sources of Nutrients on Biological Properties of Soil in Sweet Corn','G. Siva Nagaraju, P. Madhu Vani, P. Prasuna Rani and B. Venkateswarlu','176 Influence of Integrated use of Organic and Inorganic Sources of Nutrients on Biological Properties of Soil in Sweet Corn G. Siva Nagaraju.pdf','',1,'Soil being the source of various nutrients, supports various life forms. As world population and food production demands rise, intense cropping systems and indiscriminate use of chemical fertilizers creates the imbalance in soil eco system. Healthy soil is the foundation for profitable, productive, and environmentally sound agricultural systems. By understanding how the soil processes that support plant growth and regulate environmental quality and keeping this in view a field experiment entitled “Sustaining soil health and productivity of sweet corn through nutrient management” was carried out under field conditions during kharif season of 2017 at Agricultural College Farm, Bapatla. The biological properties of soil in respect of dehydrogenase activity and microbial population of bacteria, fungi and actinomycetes were significantly influenced by integration of organic and inorganic sources of nutrients over sole application of inorganic sources of nutrients. The biological properties of soil viz., dehydrogenase activity and microbial populations were recorded in T10 which received integration of 25 per cent RDF, liquid N, P and K LBF each @ 1.5 L ha-1 and cow based liquid organic manures (beejamrutham and jeevamrutham) and it was on par with the integrated treatments receiving (T7, T8 & T9) cow based liquid organic manures along with inorganic fertilizers.','Microbial population, Liquid biofertilizers, Dehydrogenase activity, Sweet corn soil health','Application of organic sources of nutrients like farm yard manure, liquid biofertilizers and cow based liquid organic sources of nutrients viz., beejamrutham and jeevamrutham not only supplied adequate amount of macro and micronutrients but also might have played a major role in improving biological properties of soil which might have resulted in the improvement of crop growth and finally enhancing the yield and yield attributes of sweet corn.','INTRODUCTION\r\nSweet corn is a special type of corn becoming popular in India and is being cultivated in maize growing areas. The urban people have great interest in consuming green ears and it is found that sweet corn is more delicious when it is steam boiled and consumed. Due to its extra sweetness and short duration, sweet corn is gaining popularity and already awareness has been created among the farming community. As the product is freshly consumed, the quality of corn is considered to be the most important.\r\nSweet corn is an exhaustive crop and it is harvested at milky stage requires more nutrients for optimum production. So integrated nutrient management involving particularly FYM, liquid N, P and K biofertlizers and cow based liquid formulations viz., Beejamrutham and Jeevamrutham not only acts as a source of multiple nutrients, helps in improving the microbial population there by they will have ability to improve soil characteristics (Ashmeet Kaur, 2020). In this context, it is worthy to study the nutrient management options in conjunction with inorganic fertilizers play an important role in sustaining productivity of sweet corn.\r\nMATERIALS AND METHODS\r\nA field experiment entitled “Sustaining soil health and productivity of sweet corn through nutrient management” was conducted at Agricultural College Farm, Bapatla using sweet corn hybrid maize Mahy-301 as a test crop. The experiment comprising of 10 treatments viz., T1: Absolute Control, T2: 100% RDF, T3: FYM @ 5 t ha-1 + LBF @ 1.5 L ha-1, T4: Beejamrutham + Jeevamrutham, T5: 50% RDF + FYM @ 5 t ha-1, T6: 50% RDF + LBF @ 1.5 L ha-1, T7: 50 % RDF + T4, T8: 25% RDF + T4, T9: 25% RDF + FYM @ 5 t ha-1 + T4, T10: 25% RDF +LBF @ 1.5 L ha-1 + T4 laid out in randomized complete block design with three replications. The initial Dehydrogenase activity was 20.12 µg TPF g-1 day-1 and microbial population viz., bacteria, fungi and actinomycetes was 17× 105, 6× 103 and 38×104 respectively.\r\nDehydrogenase enzyme activity in the soil sample was determined by following the procedure as described by Klein et al. (1971). Enumeration of microbial population viz., bacteria, fungi and actinomycetes were estimated as per the procedures outlined by Paroda (2007).\r\nRESULTS AND DISCUSSION\r\nBacteria. The bacterial population in soil at tasseling and at harvest (Table 1) was markedly influenced by the treatments. It was observed that higher count of bacterial population was observed at harvest when compared to tasseling in treatments which received seed treatment with beejamrutham followed by fortnight interval application of liquid jeevamrutham while in other treatments was at tasseling. The treatment T2 which received inorganic fertilizers recorded significantly lesser population than the treatments (T3 and T4) received organic sources of nutrients at both the stages of crop growth. \r\nThe maximum colony forming units were observed in the treatment T10 (25% RDF + LBF @ 1.5L ha-1 + beejamrutham + jeevamrutham) while the minimum were observed in absolute control (T1). According to Sreenivasa et al. (2010); Latkovic et al. (2020); Neelima and Sreenivasa (2011) maximum number of beneficial microorganisms observed in treatments received liquid formulations was mainly due to their constituents such as cow dung, cow urine, legume flour and jaggery containing both macro and essential micro nutrients, many vitamins, essential amino acids, growth promoting substances like indole acetic acid (IAA), gibberllic acid (GA) and beneficial microorganisms. \r\nAmong the treatments, the treatments (T5 to T10) which received integration of inorganic and organic sources of nutrients showed superiority over the sole application of inorganic sources of nutrients. Applied organic sources of nutrients viz., FYM and liquid jeevamrutham served as a source of nutrients and also as a substrate for decomposition and mineralization of nutrients there by creating favourable conditions for proliferation of microbes. Integration of FYM, liquid N, P and K biofertilizers and inorganic fertilizers might have exerted stimulating influence on the preponderance of bacteria which was earlier reported by Selvi et al., (2005); Gunjal and Chitodkar (2017).\r\nFungi. The results revealed that fungal population was higher at tasseling and subsequently decreased with advancement of crop growth in all the treatments and the decrease was releatively low in treatments which received seed treatment with beejamrutham followed by liquid jeevamrutham application at fortnight interval.\r\nThe highest fungal population was observed in treatment T10 (25% RDF + LBF @1.5L ha-1 + beejamrutham + jeevamrutham) whereas the lowest fungal population was observed in absolute control. Increase in microbial population with the application of organic manure might be due to stimulated growth and activities of soil microorganisms, nutrient cycling and availability and assisting in root growth. Similarly Krishnan (2014) reported enormous amount of microbial load in Jeevamrutham treated soils.\r\nAmong the integrated treatments T5 to T10, the treatments which received seed treatment with beejamrutham followed by application of liquid jeevarutham (T7 to T10) for every fortnight interval showed higher beneficial microorganisms than the treatments which received FYM and liquid biofertilizers (T5 and T6). This might be due to during the formulation of jeevamrutham and beejamrutham a handful of soil was collected from the field was used. This would serve as a initial inoculum of bacteria, fungi and actinomycetes. The results are in confirmity with Papen et al. (2002); Sreenivasa et al. (2010) who have also reported the presence of naturally occurring beneficial microorganisms predominantly bacteria, yeast, actinomycetes and certain fungi in organic liquid manures\r\nActinomycetes. The maximum number of colony forming units (Table 1) with respect to actinomycetes were recorded in treatment T10 (25% RDF + LBF @1.5L ha-1 + beejamrutham + jeevamrutham) whereas the minimum number of colony forming units were observed in absolute control. Somasundaram et al. (2003) reported that liquid organic sources of nutrients not only enhance the microbes in the environment but also act as catalysts with a synergistic effect to promote all the useful microbes of the environment by secreting proteins, organic acids and antioxidants in the presence of organic matter and convert them into energy thereby improving actinomycetes population in soil.\r\nCompared to the treatment which received only RDF (T2), the other treatments which received either organic sources of nutrients alone or combination of both recorded higher number of actinomycetes population at both the stages of crop growth. \r\nDehydrogenase Activity. Dehydrogenase activity in soil is an index of microbial population and it was (Table 1) significantly influenced by the imposed treatments. All the treatments had shown significant improvement in enzyme activity at tasseling and at harvest of the crop over the initial.\r\nAt both the stages of crop growth significantly highest dehydrogenase activity was observed in the treatment T10 which received combination of organic source of nutrients viz., liquid N, P and K biofertilizers, seed treatment with beejamrutham followed by liquid jeevamrutham application at fortnight interval along with inorganic source of nutrients (25% RDF). The highest activity might be due to enhanced microbial activity. Singaram and Kamalakumari (1995) supported that, increase in dehydrogenase activity on microbial consortium addition could be probably due to the increase in the microbial activity.\r\nAmong the different treatments, the treatments which received integrated source of nutrients recorded higher values of dehydrogenase activity than the treatment received inorganic source of nutrients only. Supplementation of balanced nutrition to crop was responsible for better proliferation of root (rhizosphere) and resulted maximum activity of enzymes. These findings are corroborate with the findings of Sireesha et al. (2017) who reported maximum activity of dehydrogenase in the rhizosphere of maize – onion cropping system on integration of 50 per cent RDF with 50 per cent N through FYM. Similar results were also reported by Pawar et al. (2013).\r\nThe unmanured and unfertilized control treatment T1 registered the lowest activity than all other treatments indicating the beneficial effect of fertilizers and manures on enzymatic activity in soil.\r\n','G. Siva Nagaraju, P. Madhu Vani, P. Prasuna Rani and B. Venkateswarlu (2022). Influence of Integrated use of Organic and Inorganic Sources of Nutrients on Biological Properties of Soil in Sweet Corn. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 14(3): 1041-1044.'),(5415,'136','Effect of Auxins and Bioagents on Concurrent ex vitro Rooting and Hardening (CEVRH) of Micro-shoots in Chrysanthemum (Chrysanthemum morifolium)','Sree Kavya K., Ravindra Kumar K., A.V.D. Dorajee Rao and Narasimha Rao S.','177 Effect of Auxins and Bioagents on Concurrent ex vitro Rooting and Hardening (CEVRH) of Micro-shoots in Chrysanthemum (Chrysanthemum morifolium) Sree Kavya K.pdf','',1,'The experiment was carried out at Dr. YSRHU- Horticultural Research Station, Kovvur during 2021-2022 in factorial completely randomized design with 18 treatment combinations replicated twice. After in vitro shoot multiplication, micro-shoots of cv. New Man and Urban Red were treated with 3 auxins (Distilled water, NAA 100 ppm and IBA (100 ppm) and 3 bioagents (Arbuscular mycorrhizal fungi (AMF) 2g/micro-shoot, Phosphate-solubilizing bacteria (PSB) 2g/micro-shoot and Pseudomonas fluorescens 2 ml/micro-shoot) for simultaneous rooting and hardening shade net. Per cent survival, shoot and root characters were recorded after hardening and subjected to data analysis. Among the different treatment combinations evaluated, Urban Red micro-shoots treated with IBA and AMF recorded maximum per cent survival, shoot thickness, number of leaves, leaf area, number of roots per shoot and root thickness. However, micro-shoots of cv. New Man treated with IBA and AMF recorded highest shoot height and lengthiest roots over other treatments. From the present experimentation it can be concluded that, among two cultivars, response of Urban Red is high for CEVRH when compared to New Man. Among auxins, IBA @ 100 ppm had shown significant difference with respect to shoot and root characters. Among bioagents, Arbuscular mycorrhizal fungi (AMF) had shown significant difference with respect to shoot and root characters.','Micro-propagation, mycorrhiza, auxins, survival, growth, rooting','Among different treatment combinations evaluated, in vitro originated Urban Red micro-shoots treated with IBA 100 ppm and Arbuscular mycorrhizal fungi (2 g/shoot) recorded highest per cent survival, shoot thickness, number of leaves, leaf area, number of roots per shoot and root thickness. However, maximum shoot height and lengthiest roots were found in New Man cultivar treated with IBA 100 ppm and Arbuscular mycorrhizal fungi. It can be concluded from the present study that, micro-shoots treated with IBA and biohardened with AMF is proved to be highly suitable for CEVRH of chrysanthemum. ','INTRODUCTION\r\nChrysanthemum is an important ornamental crop mainly grown for production of cut flowers, loose flowers and pot plants. The word chrysanthemum comes from two Greek words ‘Chrysos’ meaning golden and ‘anthemon’ meaning flower. Chrysanthemum (Chrysanthemum morifolium) is commonly called as autumn queen, Queen of the East. It belongs to family Asteraceae (Sharma, 2015) and native to China. It is a herbaceous perennial plant extensively grown all over the world for its beautiful charming flowers with varied uses like cut flower, loose flower, exhibition type, pot mums (Sheela, 2008). It is highly popular in flower industry owing to diversity in flower shape, size, colour, form, growth habit, foliage and excellent vase life to fulfil the diverse requirements of flower users (Mao et al., 2012). Each and every year several chrysanthemum varieties are being released by several private and public institutes but the availability of quality, disease free planting material is a major hindrance for its commercial cultivation. \r\nMicro-propagation is order of the day for the large-scale production of several clonally propagated plants. Micro-propagated chrysanthemum plantlets are highly desirable for commercial cultivation as they can be produced throughout the year, uniform in size, pest & disease free and best owed with high productivity. A robust in vitro protocol for different chrysanthemum genotypes was standardized at Dr. YSRHU- Horticultural Research Station, Kovvur by using ray florets, leaves, axillary buds and shoot tips as explants. However, higher production cost of tissue culture micro-propagated plants was the major impediment for its commercial production. The production cost of tissue culture plants can be reduced by eliminating one of the most expensive step i.e in vitro rooting. Hence to reduce the expenditure and speed up the production process of tissue culture plants, an experiment was performed on the effect of auxins and bioagents on concurrent ex vitro rooting and hardening (CEVRH) of two chrysanthemum cultivars. \r\nMATERIAL AND METHODS\r\nThe research work was carried out at Horticultural Research Station, Kovvur supported by, Dr. YSRHU, College of Horticulture, Venkataramannagudem, West Godavari district, Andhra Pradesh. The design of the experiment is factorial completely randomized design with 3 factors. The first factor is cultivars which has 2 levels, C1: New Man (White) and C2: Urban Red (Red). The second factor is auxins which have 3 levels namely, A0: Distilled water, A1: IBA 100 ppm @ 5 min. and A2: NAA 100 ppm @ 5 min. The third factor is bioagents which has 3 levels namely, B1: Arbuscular mycorrhizal fungi (AMF) 2 g/micro-shoot, B2: Phosphate-solubilizing bacteria (PSB) 2 g/ micro-shoot and B3: Pseudomonas fluorescens 2 ml/ micro-shoot. It has 18 treatment combinations with 2 replications. \r\nFor the present experiment, ray florets were used as explants for in vitro culture establishment. Multiple shoots were produced by using Murashige and Skoog (1962) basal media supplemented with standardized growth regulator combinations. After 8 cycles of shoot proliferation, in vitro grown micro-shoots of chrysanthemum were collected and used as experimental material in the present experiment. The present study was performed using, plant growth hormones (IBA and NAA) which were procured from Hi-Media Laboratories Pvt. Ltd., India. The bio-agents used in present study were Arbuscular mycorrhizal fungi (AMF), Phosphate solubilising bacteria (PSB), Pseudomonas fluorescens which were procured from ANGRAU-Amaravati.\r\nAfter employing the treatment with auxin and bioagent, the micro-shoots were planted in disposable paper cups filled with a mixture of sterilized sand and coco peat (1:1) under polythene sheet covered tunnel presented in 50% shade net house for maintaining optimum humidity. Fifty micro-shoots were tested for each replication. Daily watering with 19:19:19 (0.5 g/l) was applied through spray application. After 20 days after treatment, survived plant lets were transferred to shade net house conditions with natural ventilation and all the recommended cultural practices were followed with weekly spraying of liquid fertilizers ( N: P: K = 19:19:19 and 13:0:45). Data on percent survival root and shoot characters were recorded 30 days after treatment. \r\nFactorial completely randomized design (FCRD) was followed and the data were analysed using analysis of variance (ANOVA) with OPSTAT statistical package. Treatment means were compared using SE, 95% confidence intervals. Significant differences between means were assessed by Least significant difference (LSD) at P = 0.05 for FCRD. \r\nRESULTS AND DISCUSSION\r\nPer cent survival (%). The success of CEVRH is highly depends on survival of the micro-shoots to the given auxin and bioagent treatment combination. It is clearly evident from data presented in Table 1 that, significant differences were observed among the cultivars (C), auxins (A), bioagents (B), interaction between cultivars and auxins (C × A), cultivars and bioagents (C × B), auxins and bioagents (A × B), and interaction between cultivars, auxins and bioagents (C × A × B). Among the two cultivars tested, Urban Red (C2) was found to exhibit highest survival percentage (36.28 %) as compared to New Man (C1) (27.94 %). Among auxins (A), IBA (A1) was found significantly superior (40.58 %) over NAA (A2) (30.08 %). The lowest survival percentage (25.67 %) was noticed in distilled water (A0). Among bioagents (B), AMF (B1) was found to be statistically significant with respect to per cent survival (41.25 %) whereas the lowest per was noticed in PSB (B2) (25.08 %).\r\nAmong the interactions between cultivars and auxins (C × A), in vitro micro-shoots of Urban Red treated with IBA (C2A1) recorded the highest per cent survival (43.50 %) followed by New Man + IBA (C1A1) (37.67 %). The lowest per cent survival (20 %) was observed in New Man + distilled water (C1A0). Interactions between cultivars and bioagents (C × B) showed that highest survival percentage (49.17 %) was observed in Urban Red + AMF (C2B1) followed by New Man + AMF (C1B1) (33.33 %). Among the interactions between auxins and bioagents (A × B), IBA + AMF (A1B1) recorded the highest survival percentage (49.50 %) followed by IBA + P. fluorescens (A1B3) (41.50 %). However, the lowest survival percentage (19.25 %) was observed in distilled water + P. fluorescens (A0B3).\r\nAmong the three way interactions (C × A × B), Urban Red + IBA + AMF (C2A1B1) recorded highest survival percentage (56.50 %) whereas the lowest survival percentage (15.50 %) was recorded in New Man + distilled water + PSB (C1A0B2).\r\nAMF strains can be used as bio hardening agent for micro-propagated chrysanthemum plants by enhancing survival rate and reducing field mortality (Singh et al., 2008). This report was in close conformity with the result in the present study. IBA is regarded as best rooting hormone and it increases the survival per cent in plants by initiating the roots. Similar findings were reported by Ranpise et al. (2004) in chrysanthemum, Bharmal et al. (2005) in chrysanthemum, Hirapara et al. (2007) in jasmine and Parmar et al. (2010) in bougainvillea. \r\nShoot height (cm). Among the two cultivars tested, New Man (C1) was found to exhibit highest shoot height (5.62 cm) as compared to Urban Red (C2) (4.90 cm) (Table 2). Among auxins (A), NAA (A2) was found to be significantly superior with respect to shoot height (5.60 cm) followed by IBA (A1) (5.39 cm). The lowest shoot height was noticed in distilled water (A0) (4.78 cm). Among bioagents (B), AMF (B1) was found significantly superior with respect to shoot height (5.80 cm) whereas the lowest shoot height was noticed in P. fluorescens (B3) (4.94 cm).\r\nAmong the three way interactions (C × A × B), New Man micro-shoots treated with IBA and AMF (C1A1B1) recorded highest shoot height (6.50 cm) which was statistically at par with NAA and AMF in same genotype (C1A2B1) (6.35 cm). The lowest shoot height (3.85) was recorded in Urban red + distilled water + PSB (C2A0B2).\r\nAMF helps in converting the unavailable form of phosphorus (P) into available form in soil condition hence better nutrient uptake might have taken by plants which in turn stimulate the vegetative growth and yield attributing traits. The mycorrhizal association improves the plant root biomass which in turn increases the absorption capacity of the crops, enables them to utilize ‘P’ fertilizer more efficiently and achieve optimum growth even at curtailed doses of P fertilizer.Our results are in tantamount to Kumar et al. (2015) in chrysanthemum with respect to enhanced macro and micro nutrient uptake of tissue cultured chrysanthemum plants bio hardened with AMF. \r\nShoot thickness (mm). As evident from the Fig. 1 with respect to shoot thickness, Urban Red (C2) was found to exhibit highest shoot thickness (1.68 mm) as compared to New Man (C1) (1.65 mm). Among auxins (A), NAA (A2) was found significantly superior with respect to shoot thickness (1.87 mm) followed by IBA (A1) (1.79 mm). The lowest shoot thickness (1.34 mm) was noticed in distilled water (A0). Among bioagents (B), AMF (B1) was found to be statistically superior with respect to shoot thickness (1.86 mm) whereas the lowest was noticed in PSB (B2) (1.48 mm).\r\nAssociation of tissue culture plants with AMF facilitates the plants to grow more vigorously by mediating a series of complex communication events between each other leading to increased photosynthetic rate and other gas exchange-related traits. The enhanced water uptake and photosynthesis might have assisted for developing strong and thick stems in the present study.\r\nLeaf area (cm2). As evident from the Table 3, the differences were statistically significant with respect to leaf area among the treatments. Among the two cultivars tested, Urban Red (C2) was found to exhibit highest leaf area (3.56 cm2) as compared to New Man (C1) (3.06 cm2).\r\nAmong auxins (A), NAA (A2) was found significantly superior with respect to leaf area (3.73 cm2) followed by IBA (A1) (3.53 cm2). The lowest leaf area (2.67 cm2) was noticed in distilled water (A0). Among bioagents (B), AMF (B1) was found to be statistically superior with respect to leaf area (3.57 cm2) whereas the lowest was noticed in PSB (B2) (3.04 cm2). Among the three way interactions (C × A × B), Urban Red + IBA + AMF (C2A1B1) recorded highest leaf area (4.30 cm2) whereas the lowest (2.35 cm2) was recorded in New Man + distilled water + PSB (C1A0B2).\r\nSuitable type and concentration of auxin (IBA) along with the mycorrhizal association in tissue culture plants might have helped for accelerating the concurrent ex vitro rooting and hardening (CEVRH) in the present study. Improvement in leaf area may be attributed to optimum level of moisture, nutrient availability to plant, increased photosynthetic rate of plants inoculated with AMF. AMF facilitates uptake of P and micro elements present in soil. These findings are in line with Kumar et al. (2014) in chrysanthemum.\r\nNumber of roots per shoot. Among the two cultivars tested, Urban Red (C2) was found to exhibit highest number of roots per shoot (13.84) as compared to New Man (C1) (12.56). Among auxins (A), IBA (A1) was found significantly superior (15.67) over NAA (A2) (14.67). The lowest number of roots per shoot (9.25) was noticed in distilled water (A0). Among bioagents (B), AMF (B1) was found to be statistically superior with respect to number of roots per shoot (15.09) whereas the lowest was noticed in PSB (B2) (11.09) (Table 4).\r\nAmong the interactions between cultivars and auxins (C × A), in vitro micro-shoots of Urban Red treated with IBA (C2A1) recorded the highest number of roots per shoot (17.17) followed by Urban Red + NAA (C2A2) (15.84). However, the lowest number of roots per shoot (8.51) was observed in Urban Red + distilled water (C2A0). Among the interactions between auxins and bioagents (A × B), IBA + AMF (A1B1) recorded the highest number of roots per shoot (17.51) followed by NAA + AMF (A2B1) (16.75). However, the lowest (7.51) was observed in distilled water + PSB (A0B2).\r\nAmong the three way interactions (C × A × B), Urban Red + IBA + AMF (C2A1B1) recorded highest number of roots per shoot (18.51) whereas the lowest (6.51) was recorded in Urban Red + distilled water + PSB (C1A0B2). \r\nGrewal et al. (2005) found that chrysanthemum cuttings treated with IBA @ 400 ppm performed well after transplanting thus resulting in improved root growth and development. This might be due to the fact that auxin group of hormones (IBA and NAA) facilitated the process of adventitious root formation and also control growth and development of roots including lateral root initiation and root gravity response that depends upon auxin transport. Similar findings were reported by Sharma et al. (2014) in marigold and Renuka and Sekhar (2014) in carnation. Further, association of endophytic mycorrhizal fungi with the plant roots facilitates the development of stronger root system (Azcon Aguilar and Barea 1996, Kumar et al., 2014), improved growth (Zandavalli et al. 2004), enhancing nutrient and water uptake (Kim and Kim 1998), increased tolerance of host roots to soil borne pathogens (Nelson and Achar 2001) and drought stress (Ruiz Lozano and Azcon 1995), thereby enhancing plant growth and survival after field transplant.\r\nLength of the longest root (cm). The data pertaining to length of the longest root revealed significant differences (Fig. 2). Among the two cultivars tested, New Man (C1) was found to exhibit highest length of the longest root (4.39 cm) as compared to Urban Red (C2) (3.52 cm). Among auxins (A), IBA (A1) was found significantly superior with respect to length of the longest root (4.36 cm) followed by NAA (A2) (4.14 cm). The lowest (3.37 cm) was noticed in distilled water (A0). Among bioagents (B), AMF (B1) was found to be statistically superior with respect to length of the longest root (4.29 cm) whereas the lowest was noticed in PSB (B2) (3.64 cm).\r\nThe increase in root length after application of IBA and NAA has been reported by Janakiram et al. (2006). The increase in length of the roots might be due to enhanced hydrolysis of carbohydrates, accumulation of metabolites at the site of application of auxins, synthesis of new proteins, cell enlargement and cell division induced by auxins (Strydem and Hartman 1960). These results were in close conformity with the research findings of Parmar et al. (2010) in bougainvillea, Ullah et al. (2013) in marigold, Renuka and Sekhar (2014) in carnation.\r\n','Sree Kavya K., Ravindra Kumar K., A.V.D. Dorajee Rao and Narasimha Rao S. (2022). Effect of Auxins and Bioagents on Concurrent ex vitro Rooting and Hardening (CEVRH) of Micro-shoots in Chrysanthemum (Chrysanthemum morifolium). Biological Forum – An International Journal, 14(3): 1045-1051.'),(5416,'136','Effect of Peanut Flour on Proximate Composition of Thabdi Peda','V.M. Sejani, N.K. Dhamsaniya and P.J. Rathod','178 Effect of Peanut Flour on Proximate Composition of Thabdi Peda V.M. SEJANI.pdf','',1,'Peda is a popular sweet in India. The demands for higher valued ceremony food, varieties of Peda, viz. plain, kesar, Thabdi, etc. are available in the market. But higher prices of animal milk-based fat products and the high sugar content of traditional Indian sweets lead to health problems like diabetes. It is imperative to study a solution for best suitable plant-based ingredients with highly valued protein with economically feasible. The incorporation of defatted peanut flour in Thabdi Peda can make it more profitable because of its by-products of oil industries. Response Surface Methodology was undertaken to determine the effect of various proportions of peanut flour and sugar content on composition of Thabdi Peda. For that two-factor five-level Central Composite Rotatable Design (CCRD) was used. The peanut flour with proportion of 17.04% per kg of buffalo milk weight was found to be best suitable for preparing the Thabdi Peda. This optimized treatment showed higher level of true protein content and lower level of sugar as compared to traditional Thabdi Peda. These several health benefits can attract consumers to buy products and overcome the malnutrition problem, too. The cost of peanut flour based Thabdi Peda was found to be 21.27% lesser than the traditional Thabdi Peda.','Thabdi Peda, Peanut flour, Sugar, Optimization, Proximate composition','It was concluded that the peanut flour could be successfully added at 17.04% of milk weight in preparing the Thabdi Peda for getting the better proximate composition of the Peda. At this level, 10% sugar is to be added in the Peda. At the optimized level of peanut flour, the true protein content of Thabdi Peda was increased by 42.86% as compared to traditional Thabdi Peda.','INTRODUCTION\r\nPeda is one of the popular khoa-based sweetsin India. Nowadays, several varieties of Peda, viz. plain, kesar, Thabdi, etc. are available in the market. Amongst these, ThabdiPeda is more popular because of its characteristic caramel taste, texture and longer shelf life. Thabdi Peda is one such heat-desiccated indigenous milk sweet manufactured and sold in large quantities in Saurashtra region of Gujarat state (Patel et al., 2012). Day by day popularity of Thabdi Peda is increasing in Gujarat as well as other states. The product resembles to Brown or Lal Peda in many aspects.\r\nThabdi Peda isa popular milk-based sweet with light to dark red in colour of the firm body and granular texture. It is prepared from khoa, obtained by scalding fresh milk in an open pan with addition of sugar in the required amount until the moisture content is reduced as well as desired granular, hard texture and flavour develops (Bandyopadhyay et al., 2006; Chauhan and Dodeja 2019). Due to the high temperature, nutritional loss occurs in the Thabdi Peda. Therefore, it is necessary to supplement nutrition as food enrichment in Thabdi Peda. As per changes in demand and dietary patterns of consumers, researchers have been working to reduce calories of sweet products with artificial sweeteners or by any other applications (Rustom et al., 1996; Gawande et al., 2012) but enrichment of sweets with different natural products can serve healthy products to health-conscious people and overcome the malnutrition problem, too. \r\nIn India, peanut flour is used to make a variety of low-cost new food product formulations (Bassey et al., 2013). The pleasant aroma, nutty flavour and smooth texture of roasted nuts have gained popularity. The earlier studies reported many health benefits of peanuts. Peanut is utilised to improve nutrients in traditional food products and to cure severe child malnutrition (Patel, 1996; Briend, 2001). Consumers in India are becoming more health conscious and looking for healthy food due to rising disposable income, education levels and nutritional understanding (Dhamsaniya et al., 2012; Patil et al., 2022). There is an opportunity to add peanut flour to Thabdi Peda to get a delicious and nutritionally enriched product (Bassey et al., 2013). \r\nPeanut flour after oil extraction has a very low market price. Incorporation of defatted peanut flour in Thabdi Peda would be beneficial to oil millers to get its better price which will make peanut processing more profitable. Therefore, it was felt interesting to incorporate peanut flour in making Thabdi Peda which would be better for people\'s health. The current study was undertaken to evaluate the effect of various proportions of peanut flour and sugar content on the proximate composition of Thabdi Peda. \r\nMATERIALS AND METHODS\r\nThe pasteurised whole buffalo milk (7.5% fat) was obtained from the Cattle Breeding Farm of the Junagadh Agricultural University, Junagadh. Sugar (Madhur brand) was procured from the local market. Partially defatted peanut kernel splits of GG-20 obtained from the local market were used to get defatted peanut flour. As suggested by Dhamsaniya et al. (2012), the peanut kernel splits were roasted in a tray drier at 130˚C for 60 minutes (Macro Scientific Works PVT. LTD., Model: MSW-214). Split roasted peanut kernels were allowed to cool to room temperature before being ground in a mixer grinder (Bajaj Electricals Limited, Model: FX11 600 Watts Food Processor). After grinding the split, sieving was done to get the roasted partially defatted peanut flour using a 22 mesh sieve size (RPDPF).\r\nThe proportion of sugar and peanut flour varied in the range of 6-10 and 5-20% on the weight basis of milk, respectively. To evaluate the effect of varying levels of sugar (X1) and peanut flour (X2) on various proximate constituents of Thabdi Peda; a two-factor, five-level Central Composite Rotatable Design (CCRD) of Response Surface Methodology (RSM) with a quadratic model was employed to design various experiments.\r\nPeda Preparation. Following the conventional process advised by Modha et al. (2015), the Thabdi Peda were prepared with varied proportions of sugar and peanut flour. For Peda making, the milk was brought in a stainless steel open pan. To condense, milk was heated in the pan. After first boiling, sugar (6-10% w/w of milk) was added at the temperature of 97+2˚C and stirring was done by SS palta. The concentration procedure was carried out until the pre-pat forming phase. At this point, the gas flame was set to a low to avoid burning. Until the milk was coagulated and transformed into the granular mass, the whole mass was left undisturbed for a while in the pan. To achieve the ideal texture and development of distinctive colour, the heating process was prolonged with a low flame. It was, then, allowed to cool atroom temperature. To obtain a homogenised product, the concentrate was mixed with the peanut flour (5–20% w/w of milk) at a temperature of around 50+2°C. After thoroughly mixing, it was allowed to cool at room temperature followed by manually forming the Peda. \r\nDetermination of Proximate Composition. The proximate composition viz., moisture content, fat content, true protein content, sucrose, lactose and total carbohydrate of peanut flour based Thabdi Peda were determined using the standard methods and procedures.\r\nThe moisture content (wet basis) of peanut flour based Thabdi Peda was determined by the hot air oven method as described by AOAC (2000). The fat content of prepared Peda was determined by the Soxhlet apparatus method (AOAC, 2000) using SOCS PLUS (Model: SCS 06 AS DLS). True protein and total carbohydrate content were estimated as per the method suggested by Sadasivam and Manickam (1996). Sucrose and lactose were estimated as per the procedure described by Kondiba (2006) with certain modifications.\r\nStatistical Analysis. Response Surface Methodology (RSM) was used to estimate the effect of sugar and peanut flour on various proximate composition of Thabdi Peda. The response surface curves for the individual response parameters were developed through Design Expert (11.1.2.0) (Myers and Montgomery, 2000). The multiple regression analysis of data obtained from various experiments was carried out to evaluate the effect of varying levels of ingredients on the proximate composition of Peda.\r\nRESULTS AND DISCUSSION\r\nThe different combinations of peanut flour and sugar content in Thabdi Peda were subjected to evaluate their effect on various proximate composition viz., moisture content, fat content, true protein content, sucrose, lactose and total carbohydrateas shown in Table 1. Analysis of variance (ANOVA) and regression coefficients for response surface quadratic model of different proximate composition of peanut flour based Thabdi Peda is given in Table 2.\r\nEffect on Moisture Content of Peda. The moisture content of peanut flour based Thabdi Peda was obtained in the range of 15.06 to 17.38% depending upon the varying proportion of sugar and peanut flour as given in Table 1. It was found that the increase in the proportion of peanut flour extremely reduced the moisture content of the Peda (p<0.001). The effect of sugar and combined effect of sugar and peanut flour was found non-significant. Also, both quadratic terms were non-significant (Table 2).\r\nThe empirical relationship between the test variables with moisture content of Peda was obtained as under:\r\nMoisture content (%, wb) = 16.39+0.1075 X1–0.8151X2+0.0150X1X2–0.0952X12–0.0752X22\r\nWhere, X1 and X2 are the sugar and peanut flour proportion, respectively.\r\nThe response surface curve for the variation in the moisture content of peanut flour based Thabdi Peda as a function of sugar (X1) and peanut flour (X2) is shown in Fig. 1(a). It shows that the decrease in moisture content was observed as the sugar decreased up to 6% and peanut flour increased up to 20%. The moisture content in this combination was proposed to be decreased up to 14.72%. The addition of peanut flour in the Thabdi Peda led to decrease in the moisture with increasing in the flour level. It might be possible due to the lower initial moisture content of peanut flour. A similar trend was noted by Gavhane et al. (2014) while the manufacturing of ginger based Peda. Labuckas et al. (2016) also observed reduction in moisture content with an increase in peanut flour proportion while improving nutritional value of bakery products. The present findings are, therefore, in agreement with the results of other scientists.\r\nEffect on Fat Content of Peda. The fat content was got in the range of 15.89 to 19.74% depending on varying proportion of sugar and peanut flour as given in Table 1. The lowest fat content was found in the Peda having 5% peanut flour while the highest fat was recorded in the Peda having the highest peanut flour (20%) content. This shows an extremely significant effect of peanut flour (p<0.001) on the fat content of Peda. However, the interaction effect of both the ingredients and sugar alone remained non-significant. The empirical relationship for fat content was obtained as under: \r\nFat content (%) = 18.47–0.0145X1+1.24X2–0.1750X1X2–0.2907X12–0.3357X22\r\nWhere, X1 and X2 are the coded factors of sugar and peanut flour, respectively.\r\nThe increase in fat content was observed as the sugar decreased up to 7.37% and peanut flour increased up to 20% as indicated in Fig. 1(b). The fat content in this combination was proposed to be increased up to 19.62%. Upon further rise in peanut flour, fat content was found to be increased. Shinde et al. (2015) also examined the increase in fat content of Peda blended with wheat bran. Similar findings were also reported by Dharsenda et al. (2015) during their experiment on peanut okara (defatted peanut) flour cookies.\r\nEffect on True Protein Contentof Peda. The true protein content of Peda varied between 17.80 and 21.81% during the different treatment combinations (Table 1). The linear and quadratic effect of peanut flour was found to be extremely significant (p<0.001) and significant (p<0.05), respectively. While the linear and quadratic effect of sugar and the interaction effect of sugar and peanut flour was observed as non-significant (Table 2). The empirical relationship for true protein was obtained as under: \r\nTrue protein (%) = 20.40 – 0.1908 X1 + 1.19 X2 + 0.1975 X1X2 – 0.0602 X12 – 0.3127 X22\r\nWhere, X1 and X2 are the coded factors of sugar and peanut flour, respectively.\r\nFig. 1(c) shows the interactive effect of sugar and peanut flour on the true protein of peanut flour based Thabdi Peda. The increase in true protein was observed as the sugar increased up to 8.82% and peanut flour up to 20%. The true protein in this combination was proposed to be increased up to 21.48%.The value of true protein was increased with increase in the proportion of peanut flour. It might be occurred due to the high value of protein available in the peanut flour. The same trend was also seen by Seth and Kochhar (2018) while developing healthy cakes using partially defatted peanut flour.\r\nEffect on Sucrose of Peda. The experimental values of sucrose were found in the range of 27.37 to 35.12% depending on different treatment combinations (Table 1). The linear effect of sugar and peanut flour indicated a significant positive effect on sucrose at the level of significance p<0.001 and p<0.01, respectively. The empirical relation for the sucrose of peanut flour based Thabdi Peda was obtained as under:\r\nSucrose (%) = 30.62 + 2.91 X1 – 0.6979 X2 – 0.3850 X1X2 + 0.1278 X12 + 0.1178 X22\r\nWhere, X1 and X2 are the coded factors of sugar and peanut flour, respectively.\r\nThe increase in sucrose was observed as the sugar increased up to 10% and peanut flour up to 5% as indicated in the Fig. 1(d). The sucrose at this combination was proposed to be increased up to 36.96%. It was observed that the sucrose was increased with an increase in sugar level. During their investigation into the rate of sugar addition in Thabdi, Hirpara et al. (2015) obtained a similar set of results. At the same time, sucrose decreased as the level of peanut flour increased. It might be possible due to the reduction of weight of sugarin the total weight of peanut flour based Thabdi Peda.\r\nEffect on Lactose of Peda. The lactose of peanut flour based Thabdi Peda was obtained in the range of 8.45 to 11.20% depending upon the varying proportion of sugar and peanut flour as given in Table 1. The linear effect of sugar and peanut flour indicated a negatively significant effect on lactose at the level of significance p<0.01 and p<0.001, respectively. The empirical relation for the lactose of peanut flour based Thabdi Peda was obtained as under:\r\nLactose (%) = 9.64 – 0.2868 X1 – 0.8211 X2 + 0.1600 X1X2 – 0.0455 X12 + 0.0445 X22\r\nWhere, X1 and X2 are the coded factors of sugar and peanut flour, respectively.\r\nThe decrease in lactose was observed as the sugar increased up to 10% and peanut flour up to 20% as indicated in the Fig. 1(e). The lactose at this combination was observed to be decreased up to 8.39%. The lactose was decreased with increase in sugar level and peanut flour level. The effect of sugar on decrease in lactose content was also found by Hirpara et al. (2015) during the optimization of sugar rate in Thabdi. Reduction in lactose with the addition of peanut flour can be concluded as the lower level of lactose in the gross product.\r\nEffect on Total Carbohydrate of Peda. The total carbohydrate of Thabdi Peda was obtained in the range of 41.91 to 50.12% depending upon the level of sugar and peanut flour as given in Table 1. The linear effect of sugar and peanut flour were indicated highly significant on total carbohydrate at the level of significance of 0.1% and 1%, respectively. The empirical relation for the total carbohydrate of peanut flour based Thabdi Peda was obtained as under:\r\nTotal carbohydrate (%) = 45.54 + 2.27 X1 – 1.43 X2 – 0.2475 X1X2 – 0.2484 X12 + 0.3466 X22\r\nWhere, X1 and X2 are the coded factors of sugar and peanut flour, respectively.\r\nThe decrease in total carbohydrate was observed when the sugar decreased up to 6% and peanut flour increased up to 20% as presented in the Fig. 1(f). The total carbohydrate at this combination was decreased up to 41.01%. The decrease in total carbohydrate was observed with the reduction in sugar quantity. Hirpara et al. (2015) have also mentioned similar findings during Thabdi making process. Also, total carbohydrate was decreased with increase in peanut flour proportion. This might be due to the total carbohydrate available in peanut flour, which was used as the raw material of peanut flour based Thabdi Peda. Shinde et al. (2015) have found out decrease in carbohydrate of Peda with increase in wheat bran. A similar result was also mentioned by Dhanesh et al. (2018) while improving nutritional quality of Indian seasonal sweets with partially defatted peanut cake flour and dehydrated spinach leaves powder.\r\nThe proximate composition Thabdi Peda prepared at optimized proportion of peanut flour (17.04%) and sugar content (10%) was compared with the traditional Thabdi Peda as shown in Table 3. It was interesting to note that the addition of peanut flour in the Thabdi Peda significantly increased true protein (42.86%) content of the Peda. Also, the manufacturing cost of peanut flour based Thabdi Peda will be 21.27% lesser than the traditional Thabdi Peda.\r\n','V.M. Sejani, N.K. Dhamsaniya and P.J. Rathod (2022). Effect of Peanut Flour on Proximate Composition of Thabdi Peda. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 14(3): 1052-1057.'),(5417,'136','Effect of Nutrient Management on Growth and Quality of Garlic (Allium sativum L.) cv. Yamuna Safed-3','Astha Vishwaraj*, Manoj Kumar Singh, Vipin Kumar, S.K. Lodhi, U.P. Shahi and Khursheed Alam','179 Effect of Nutrient Management on Growth and Quality of Garlic (Allium sativum L.) cv. Yamuna Safed-3 Astha Vishwaraj.pdf','',1,'Alliums are among the oldest cultivated plant species. The most widely cultivated are onion and garlic belongs to genus Allium. Garlic is a common spice and condiment crop. The present experiment was conducted at Horticultural Research Centre of Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel University of Agriculture & Technology, Meerut (U.P.) during Rabi season of 2021-22 for evaluating the effect of nutrient management on growth and quality of garlic (Allium sativum L.) cv. Yamuna Safed-3”. The experiment was carried out in Randomized Block Design (RBD) with three replications in nine treatment combinations. The maximum plant height (27.88 cm, 48.79 cm, 64.23 cm and 81.50 cm at 30, 60, 90 and at harvest, respectively), number of leaves per plant (5.23, 6.83, 7.34 and 8.59 at 30, 60, 90 and at harvest, respectively), length of leaves (23.87 cm, 36.26 cm, 47.74 cm and 48.82 cm at 30, 60, 90 and at harvest, respectively), leaf width (2.20 cm), collar height (6.52 cm), collar width (1.50 cm), fresh weight of plant (49.88 g), earliness in maturity (125.50 days), TSS (40.47°B), ascorbic acid (14.57 mg/l00g), A grade bulb (35.09%), B grade bulb (66.25%) except C grade bulb (18.52%) was recorded under the treatment (T7)- 75% RDF (75:40:40:25 NPKS kg/ha) + FYM (2.5 t/ha) + PM (0.5 t/ha). However, the minimum value for above parameters were absorbed under treatment (T1)- Control.','Garlic, Growth, Quality, RDF, Treatments and Yamuna Safed-3','On the basis of results obtained in present investigation, it is concluded that treatment 75% RDF + FYM 2.5 t/ha + PM 0.5t/ha and 75% RDF + PM1 t/ha which were significantly at par with each other in mostly all the treatments was found to be the best for enhancement in plant height, number of leaves, length and width of leaves, height and width of collar, fresh weight of plants, TSS, Ascorbic acid, grading of bulbs and reduced days to maturity which eventually increased the growth and quality of garlic.','INTRODUCTION\r\nGarlic (Allium sativum L.) is an important bulb crop widely grown for as a spice or condiment. It’s one of the major members of Alliaceae family and known by variety of local names in different parts of India. In India, it is commonly known as Lahsun. The primary center of origin of garlic is Central Asia and Southern Europe and secondary center is Mediterranean region (Thompson and Kelly 1957). Wild ancestor of garlic, Allium longicuspis Regel was known in Egypt as early as 3000 B.C. and also to the ancient Greeks and Romans (Som and Hazara 2006).\r\nA colorless, odorless, water-soluble amino compound known as alliin is present in uninjured cloves of garlic. On injury of the cells, an enzyme, alliinase comes in contact with alliin and causes is breakdown into sulphur containing product allicin (diallyl thiosulfate) which gives typical odour of fresh garlic. Diallyl disulfide possess the true garlic odour (Som and Hazara 2006).\r\nGarlic is considered, to possess antibacterial, antibiotic, antitumor, antiviral, antifungal, anticandidal, antimycotic, antithrombotic, fibrinolytic, hypoglycemic, cytotoxic and lipid lowering properties. (Thamburaj and Singh 2005).\r\nChina accounts 75% of the total world output and ranks first in production. In India, garlic is grown in an area of 274 thousand hectares with a production of 1.27 million tonnes. Among different states of India, Madhya Pradesh is the leading state accounting for 190.036 thousand hectares area and 1956.749 thousand tons of production contributing 48.64 % of area and 61.44 % in production of country’s total (Anonymous, 2021).\r\nHigh yield and good quality of garlic can be improved through nitrogen and sulphur application strategies as influenced by the source of N and S, as well as rates and times (Luo et al., 2000). Use of both organic as well as inorganic nutrient sources not only help in increasing the yield of the garlic but also act as a store house of nutrients for successive crop growth period, besides this it is improving the physical condition of soil. Integrated nutrient application is the only liable way for obtaining fairly high productivity with substantial fertilizer leading to sustainable agriculture. Also, it becomes indispensable to find out the optimum dose of organic manures and inorganic fertilizers combination for proper growth and development of crop.\r\nMATERIALS AND METHODS \r\nThe present study was carried out at Horticultural Research Centre of Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel University of Agriculture and Technology, Meerut (Uttar Pradesh) during Rabi season of 2021-22. The variety of garlic Yamuna Safed-3 was used to carried out in Randomized Block Design with three replications in nine treatments viz., T1- Unfertilized plot (control), T2- 100% RDF, T3- 125% RDF, T4- 150% RDF, T5- 75% RDF + 25% through FYM through (5 t/ha), T6- 75% RDF + 25% through PM (1 t/ha), T7- 75% RDF + FYM (2.5 t/ha) + PM (0.5 t/ha), T8- 100% RDF + FYM (5 t/ha) and T9- 100% RDF + Poultry manure (2 t/ha).The flat beds of 3 × 2.5 m2 size were prepared for planting in spacing of 15 × 10 cm. Five randomly selected plants from each plot were tagged for recording of the various observations on growth and quality characters in garlic. The Plant growth parameters viz., plant height, number of leaves, length of longest leaf, width of leaf height and width of collar region, fresh weight of plant, earliness in maturity were recorded at 30 days, 60 days, 90 days and at harvest. The quality parameters like TSS, ascorbic acid grading of bulb. The data obtained were processed statistically to determine the effect of various treatments.\r\nStandard error of mean\r\nStandard error of mean was calculated as follows: \r\nSEm ± = \r\nWhere, SEm ± = Standard error of mean\r\nEMSS = Error mean sum of square \r\nr = Number of replications on which the observation is based\r\nCritical Difference\r\n \r\nWhere,\r\nCD = Critical difference\r\nEMS = Error mean square\r\nSEm ± = Standard error of mean\r\nt = value from Fisher’s table (1963) for error degree of freedom at 5% level of significant.\r\nRESULTS AND DISCUSSIONS \r\nThe application of different doses of organic manures and fertilizers significantly enhanced the vegetative growth parameters of garlic. The maximum plant height (Table 1) was recorded with the treatment 75% RDF + FYM (2.5 t/ha) + PM (0.5t/ha) with a value of 27.88 cm, 48.79 cm, 64.23 cm and 81.50 cm at 30, 60, 90 and at harvest respectively. In contrast, significantly lowest plant height was observed at all the stages of growth under control i.e., 24.65 cm, 39.49 cm, 53.80 cm and 64.18 cm at 30, 60, 90 and at harvest respectively. The improvement in the nutrient uptake by plants is responsible for good vegetative growth. The similar results were also reported earlier by Talware et al. (2010); Ranjan et al. (2010); Singh et al. (2017).\r\nThe highest number of leaves per plant (Table 2) was obtained when the plants were supplied with 75% RDF + FYM (2.5 t/ha) + PM (0.5t/ha) i.e., 5.23, 6.83, 7.34 and 8.59 at 30, 60, 90 and at harvest respectively. While, the control shows the minimum number of leaves per plant at all the successive stage of growth 4.22, 5.00, 5.56 and 6.28 at 30, 60, 90 and at harvest respectively. Similar findings were also reported earlier by Jayathilake et al. (2002); Yadav, (2015). \r\nThe highest length of leaves (Table 3) was recorded at all the successive stage of growth i.e., 30, 60, 90 and harvesting is (23.87 cm, 36.26 cm, 47.74 cm and 48.82 cm) cm recorded in the plot which was treated with 75% RDF + FYM (2.5 t/ha) + PM (0.5t/ha). However, lowest length was recorded in control (T1) i.e., 18.86 cm, 28.66 cm, 35.62 cm and 36.47 cm at 30, 60, 90 and at harvest. Results of experiment can be explained by correlating the observations with the work done by Patil et al. (2007); Islah (2010); Sachin et al. (2017) in garlic.\r\nThe uppermost value of leaf width (Table 4) 2.20 cm recorded in the plot which was treated with 75% RDF + FYM (2.5 t/ha) + PM (0.5t/ha). However, lowest leaf width was recorded in control (T1) i.e., 1.66 cm. The increased length and width of leaves may be due to the production of promoting substances that might have result in cell elongation and multiplication and rate of photosynthesis. The maximum collar height and collar width (Table 4) was observed with the treatment T7 75% RDF + FYM (2.5 t/ha) + PM (0.5t/ha) i.e., 6.52 cm and 1.50 cm, respectively. However, the minimum value was observed with the treatment T1 (control) 4.49 cm and 1.07 cm respectively. Maximum collar height and thickness in this treatment may be the result of high nitrogen supply resulting in increased growth and succulency. These results are in close agreement with those of Singh et al. (2002); Patil et al. (2007); Islah (2010); Priyanshu et al. (2020). \r\nFresh weight result shows (Table 4) that 75% RDF in treatment T7 and using of 25 % FYM and PM gave significant results as compare to control and higher dose of RDF 100-150% with or without combination of organic manure. Treatment T7- 75% RDF + FYM (2.5 t/ha) +PM(0.5t/ha) shows profound increase in the fresh weight of plant, highest value recorded is 49.88 g. While, the lowest value is observed in control 37.50g. The results supported by the finding reported by Singh (2002); Shashidhar et al. (2005); Islam et al. (2007).\r\nThe treatment 75% RDF + FYM (2.5 t/ha) + PM (0.5t/ha) recorded the earliness in maturity (Table-4) 125.50 days under study. However, the treatment control (T1) took maximum days for maturity (136.86 days). The early maturity of bulb might be due to the hormones and organic acid secreted by organic manures during decomposition might have led to early maturity. The maximum number of days to be taken for maturity under control may be due to inadequate availability of nutrients resulting into more time to complete the vegetative growth (Sachin et al., 2017).\r\nThe quality parameters (Table 5) like TSS (°Brix), ascorbic acid (mg/100g) and grading of bulbs were significantly affected by various doses of nutrients during the trialing. The quality parameters improve with using RDF to 75% of RDF doses with combinations of NPK, FYM and Poultry Manure then declined the quality parameters when sole application of NPK. The lowest moisture content, TSS and ascorbic acid were found under the control.\r\nThe Maximum value of TSS (40.47°B) was observed in the treatment receiving 75% RDF + FYM(2.5 t/ha) + PM(0.5t/ha). However, minimum T.S.S. (37.67°B) was recorded in control (T1). The results supported by the finding reported by Waghachavare (2004); Sevak et al. (2012); Patidar et al. (2017). The maximum ascorbic acid content in garlic bulbs (14.57 mg/l00g) was recorded in the treatment 75% RDF + FYM (2.5 t/ha) + PM(0.5t/ha) and minimum ascorbic acid content observed in control (T1). This might be due to physiological influence of FYM and vermicompost in combination with inorganic sources of nutrient and biofertilizers on activity of number of enzymes and due to more energy and food material available to the bulb due to strong vegetative growth Choudhary et al. (2013); Priyanshu (2020).\r\nThe effect of nutrient management was found significant in the different grades of garlic bulbs. The treatment 75% RDF + FYM (2.5 t/ha) + PM (0.5t/ha) recorded A grade bulb (35.09%), B grade bulb (66.25%) and C grade bulb (18.52%). However, treatment T4 shows maximum C grade bulb percentage (32.24%) as compared to C grade (18.52%) of 75 % RDF + FYM(2.5 t/ha) + PM(0.5t/ha). The least bulb percentage value of A, B and C grade bulb were recorded with the control (T1) i.e., 3.42%, 50.32% and 12.25% respectively. It is observed from the results that the treatment applied with combination of one or more organic manure with inorganic fertilizers shows more B and A grade large bulbs. This may be due to the reduction of inorganic nitrogen doses and better nutrient uptake, improved photosynthesis, besides excellent physiological and biochemical activities. Similar, results were reported earlier by Gowda et al. (2007); Banjare et al. (2015).\r\n','Astha Vishwaraj, Manoj Kumar Singh, Vipin Kumar, S.K. Lodhi, U.P. Shahi and Khursheed Alam (2022). Effect of Nutrient Management on Growth and Quality of Garlic (Allium sativum L.) cv.Yamuna Safed-3. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 14(3): 1058-1062.'),(5418,'136','Effect of Elevated CO2 on the abundance of Soil Arthropods in Rice Ecosystem','Munmun Mohapatra, S. D. Mohapatra and G. S. Giri','180 Effect of Elevated CO2 on the abundance of Soil Arthropods in Rice Ecosystem S D Mohapatra.pdf','',1,'Soil arthropods which are well known as scavenger, play a crucial role in enhancing system production and productivity. An experiment was conducted under Open Top Chambers at National Rice Research Institute, Cuttack to know the effect of elevated CO2 on the abundance and diversity of soil arthropods in rice ecosystem. The experimental unit consists of three concentrations of CO2 i.e. one ambient (410 ppm) and two elevated (550 and 700 ppm). Soil samples were collected at monthly interval to assess the effect of elevated CO2 on abundance and diversity of soil arthropods. Observation regarding soil temperature and moisture content was also recorded during the period of study. It was observed that elevated CO2 influenced both soil temperature and moisture in the rice ecosystem. The ecosystem was observed to be inhabited by various group of soil arthropod such as collembolan, acari, coleopteran, dipteran, hymenopteran, millipeds, orthopteran and dermapteran. Among them, collembolan was found to be the major followed by acari and other groups such as Coleoptera, Diptera, Hymenoptera, Millipede, Orthoptera, Dermaptera. A significant effect of elevated CO2 was observed between all the soil arthropods except acari.','Rice, Soil arthropod, Collembola, Acari, Elevated CO2, Soil moisture, Soil temperature','The above results concluded that elevated CO2 also affected soil arthropod population other than acari in the rice field by influencing the soil edaphic factors such as temperature and moisture. Higher temperature and lower moisture content of soil resulted in lower density and abundance of soil arthropod population under elevated CO2.','INTRODUCTION\r\nSoil arthropods play a significant role in organic matter processing and soil structure augmentation processes. They are also involved in soil formation and aeration, increasing the porosity and fertility of the soil by breaking down organic matters. The fertility of soil is an important factor for cultivation of different crops. Because it accommodates multiple functions such as soil formation, litter decomposition, nutrient cycling, assimilation of organic and inorganic elements, mineralization of organic matters of biological origin and also act as reservoir of organic matter (Devi et al., 2011); also perform key functions essential to plants such as disease regulation, agrochemical degradation (Sheikh et al., 2016). The interactions between soil fauna and flora and their activities help in improving the productivity of soil (Abbas and Parwez 2019). The abundance of soil fauna community is very much influenced under changing scenario of climate directly by altering soil microclimate and indirectly by altering resource availability and the composition of the soil food web (Kardol et al., 2011). Hence, a better understanding regarding climate change on abundance of soil arthropods can aid predictions of how soil ecosystems may function under future climatic conditions.\r\nMATERIAL AND METHODS\r\nThe experiment was conducted inside Open Top Chamber (OTC) at ICAR-National Rice Research Institute, Cuttack, Odisha in randomized block design (RBD) with three treatments i.e. one ambient CO2 (410 ppm) and two elevated CO2 (550 and 700 ppm) and ten replications during 2018. Ten soil samples (30×10×15 cm3) from each treatment were randomly collected during February to July from the rice field inside OTC by two sampling methods such as soil sampler and mouth aspirator. The collected soil samples were stored in transparent polythene bags and treatment wise labeled. The soil temperature (°C) was recorded by the help of soil thermometer and soil moisture (%) was recorded manually by taking the weight of samples before and after extraction. Then the soil arthropods were extracted by Berelese-Tull green funnel extraction method inside the laboratory. The preserved soil arthropods were identified by the stereoscopic binocular microscope and classified order/group wise and then population of each individual were counted. \r\n \r\nRESULTS AND DISCUSSION\r\nThe soil arthropod population collected from each treatment were belong to Collembola, Acari, Coleoptera, Diptera, Hymenoptera, Millipede, Orthoptera, Dermaptera orders. The highly dominant group was found to be Collembola followed by Acari under both ambient and elevated CO2 conditions. The high temperature and low moisture content of soil samples were recorded from February to July in the rice field under elevated CO2 as compared to ambient condition.\r\nA. Soil Climate\r\nSoil temperature (°C). The minimum soil temperatures i.e. 26.5, 27.1 and 27.4°C were recorded in the month of February under ambient (410 ppm CO2) and elevated condition (550 and 700 ppm CO2), respectively (Fig. 1). Afterwards, the soil temperature was increased to 29.2, 29.7 and 29.9°C in the month of March followed by 30.4, 31.2 and 31.5°C in the month of April under 410, 550 and 700 ppm CO2, respectively. The soil temperature was recorded maximum in the month of May i.e. 32.1, 32.5 and 32.7°C under 410, 550 and 700 ppm CO2 respectively. Again, the soil temperature was dropped to 28.7, 29.4 and 29.7°C in the month of June followed by 28.2, 29.2 and 29.5°C in the month of July under 410, 550 and 700 ppm CO2, respectively.\r\nSoil moisture (%). The soil moisture contents were fluctuated according to soil temperatures under ambient condition whereas constantly decreased under elevated condition. The maximum soil moisture per cent was recorded i.e. 27.2, 26.8 and 26.5% in the month of February during 2018 under 410, 550 and 700 ppm CO2, respectively. Then the soil moisture per cent was decreased to 26.8, 25.6 and 25.3% in the month of March followed by 25.0, 24.5 and 24.3% in the month of April and 24.6, 24.3 and 24.1% in the month of May under 410, 550 and 700 ppm CO2, respectively (Fig. 2). Again, the soil moisture per cent was slightly increased in the month of June i.e. 25.2% followed by 25.5% in the month of July under ambient condition whereas the constantly decreased soil moisture percent were recorded 23.7 and 23.5% in June followed by 23.5% and 23.2% in July under 550 and 700ppm CO2, respectively.\r\nB. Population dynamics\r\nIn the rice ecosystem, the population of Collembola significantly differed from each other under ambient and elevated condition of carbon dioxide. During the month of February, the population density of Collembola found to be higher under ambient condition (5.40) as compared to elevated conditions i.e., 550 ppm (4.40) and 700 ppm (3.70) CO2 (5.40) (Table 1). Adjacently, in the month of March, the density was increased to 6.30 under 410 ppm CO2, but decreased to 3.80 and 3.20 under 550 and 700 ppm CO2, respectively. After that, during the cropping period i.e. in the month of April and May (hottest season) the density was decreased to 4.50 and 4.10, respectively but again increased to 5.00 in the month of June under 410 ppm CO2 whereas the decreasing population were recorded to be 3.40, 3.10 and 2.60 respectively under 550 ppm CO2 followed by 2.80, 2.60 and 2.20 respectively under 700 ppm CO2. Then in the month of July, the density 5.70 was increased under410 ppm CO2 but decreased to 2.20 and 1.90 under 550 and 700 ppm CO2, respectively. The total population was 5.17, 3.25 and 2.73 under 410, 550 and 700 ppm CO2, respectively.\r\nAcari. The acari population in the rice field was influenced by soil temperature and moisture and also increased but not significantly under elevated CO2 condition. In the month of February, the higher population density was observed under elevated condition i.e. 1.70 and 1.80 at 550 and 700 ppm CO2 respectively than ambient condition i.e. 1.50 at 410 ppm CO2 (Table 2). Then in the month of March, April, May, June and July the population densities 1.20, 1.60, 1.80, 1.90 and 1.40 respectively fluctuated under 410 ppm CO2 whereas the increasing population were recorded to be 1.80, 1.80, 2.00, 2.20 and 2.30 respectively under 550 ppm CO2 followed by 2.10, 2.30, 2.40, 2.40 and 2.50 respectively under 700 ppm CO2. The average population densities were recorded as 1.47, 1.97 and 2.25 under 410, 550 and 700 ppm CO2, respectively.\r\nOther groups. The other groups of soil arthropods found in the rice field also influenced by soil climatic conditions such as temperature and moisture under ambient and elevated CO2 conditions and significantly differed from each other. The population density of other groups was found to be 8.40 in the month of February and was higher under ambient condition (410 ppm CO2) than elevated condition i.e. 7.40 and 6.50 at 550 and 700 ppm CO2 respectively (Table 3). In the month of March, the population was increased to 9.30 under 410 ppm CO2 but decreased to 6.20 and 4.80 under 550 and 700 ppm CO2, respectively. Then in the month of April and May, the population were decreased to 7.50 and 7.10, respectively but again increased to 8.70 in the month of June under 410 ppm CO2 whereas the decreasing population were recorded to be 5.30, 4.90 and 3.80 respectively under 550 ppm CO2 followed by 3.70, 3.50 and 2.60 respectively under 700 ppm CO2. In the month of July, the population was increased (8.00) under 410 ppm CO2, but decreased to 3.50 and 2.30 under 550 and 700 ppm CO2, respectively. The total population densities were 8.17, 5.18 and 3.90 under 410, 550 and 700 ppm CO2, respectively. \r\nRelative abundance of soil arthropod\r\nThe percent relative abundance of Collembola, Acari and other groups were 34.9, 9.9 and 55.2% respectively under 410ppm CO2 (Fig. 3) followed by 31.3, 18.9 and 49.8% respectively under 550ppm CO2 and 30.7, 25.3 and 43.9% respectively under 700ppm CO2.\r\nEffects of soil moisture and temperature on soil arthropod under elevated CO2\r\nIn the present study, we observed that soil temperature had negative and non-significant interaction with collembolan and other group of population whereas had a positive and non-significant interaction with acari population under all the concentration of CO2. Significant role of soil moisture was observed on the abundance of soil arthropod under elevated conditions of CO2. The population of collembola and other groups were observed to be increase with increase in soil moisture whereas that of acari was observed to be decreased with decrease in soil moisture content.\r\nIn the present study, the low moisture content in soil during March to May under elevated CO2may be due to high water use efficiency of the crops because of dry season (Uddin et al., 2018). In contrast, the soil moisture increased under elevated CO2 (Nelson et al., 2004; Leipprand and Gerten 2006; Carrillo et al., 2010). \r\nThe collembola was found to be the major constitute of soil arthropod in the rice field followed by Acari and other groups such as coleoptera, Diptera, Hymenoptera, Millipede, Orthoptera, Dermaptera Since, no published work on effect of elevated CO2 on soil arthropod population was found, hence the data observed were not compared with other published scientific reports. However, similar observations were reported by (Fonseca and Sarkar 1998; Roy and Roy 2006; Ramezani et al., 2018; Sitlhou and Singh 2019). Florian et al. (2019) observed low and high population density of collembolan and acari respectively under low moisture (drought) condition. Roy and Roy (2006) and Sarkar et al. (2014) and Sarkar et al. (2016) found lowest faunal population of collembolan and mites during the summer month and highest during post monsoon period. The highest Acari population was found in the month of June and July under ambient and elevated CO2, respectively (Mohapatra et al., 2021). \r\n','Munmun Mohapatra, S. D. Mohapatra and G. S. Giri (2022). Effect of Elevated CO2 on the abundance of Soil Arthropods in Rice Ecosystem. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 14(3): 1063-1067.'),(5419,'136','Genetic divergence studies in clusterbean [Cyamopsis tetragonoloba (L.) Taub.]','K. B. Mehta, P. J. Patel, P. C. Patel and Manish Sharma','181 Genetic divergence studies in clusterbean [Cyamopsis tetragonoloba (L.) Taub.] K. B. Mehta.pdf','',1,'The present investigation was carried out in Randomized Block Design with four replications on thirty genotypes of cluster bean to assess genetic divergence using the Mahalanobis D2 technique. Gum content in seed contributed the maximum to the total divergence followed by days to flowering, number of pods per plant, days to maturity and protein content. Genotypes were grouped into 5 clusters using Tocher\'s method. Cluster II was the largest group (11 genotypes) followed by cluster I (10 genotypes) and seven genotypes in cluster III. The remaining solitary clusters (IV and V) contained only one genotype each. Based on inter-cluster distance and performance observed in the present study intercross between the genotype of clusters II (GG 1908, GG 1911, GG 2102, GG 2104, GG 1906, GG 1912, GG 1907, GG 1909, GG 1904, GG 2103) and cluster IV (GG 2111) would be effective for improving seed yield in clusterbean. ','Genotypes, Genetic divergence, inter-cluster distance, Cluster bean','In the present investigation, the 30 genotypes were grouped into 5 clusters. Cluster II had the maximum intra-cluster distance, while the minimum intra-cluster distance was observed for cluster IV. The maximum inter-cluster distance was recorded between cluster II and cluster IV, while the minimum inter-cluster distance was observed between clusters I and IV. The intercluster distance was higher than intra cluster distance indicating the presence of substantial genetic diversity. Whereas, intercross of the genotype clusters II (GG 1908, GG 1911, GG 2102, GG 2104, GG 1906, GG 1912, GG 1907, GG 1909, GG 1904, GG 2105, GG 2103) and cluster IV (GG 2111) would be effective for creating a wide spectrum of variability and improving seed yield in clusterbean. Cluster III had the highest mean values for the number of days to flowering, plant height and maturity. Cluster IV had a desirable high rating for the number of branches per plant, gum content and protein content. Cluster V had a desirable high rating for the number of pods per plant, pod length, test weight and seed yield per plant. The data clearly show that character-wise contribution varies throughout clusters, thus if a single character needs to be improved, it can be done by using genotypes from the cluster that has the highest mean values for that character. The cross combinations that may produce the maximum variability for certain qualities are thus determined by the clustering pattern. Cluster means and inter-cluster distance can also be used to choose the best genotypes for the breeding program. Gum content, days to blooming, and the number of pods per plant were the factors that most significantly contributed to the overall divergence. Because of this, choosing superior genotypes based on these features may be crucial in breeding programs.','INTRODUCTION\r\nClusterbean [Cyamopsis tetragonoloba (L.) Taub.] (2n=2x=14) is an underexploited legume belonging to the family Fabaceae. It is a short-day self-pollinated crop (Undersander et al., 1991), commonly known as guar, chavlikayi, guari and khutti etc. The word “guar” represents a derivation from the Sanskrit word “Gaaahar” which means cow food or fodder of livestock (Bhosle and Kothekar 2010). It is a versatile legume crop cultivated mostly as animal feed, green manure (Chudzikowski, 1971 and Siddaraju et al., 2010), green leaves as fodder, vegetable and cover crop (Arora and Pahuja, 2008). Clusterbean is grown mainly in the Kharif season. It is a photosensitive crop and requires a specific climatic condition to grow for proper germination. Due to high drought and salinity tolerance (Francois et al., 1990) and (Ashraf et al., 2005), guar could be a valuable alternative crop for the exploitation of semi-arid environments. It grows best in sandy soils, with a rainfall range of 250 to 450 mm and a temperature range of 25°C to 40°C. The optimum pH value is between 7 to 8, guar enhances soil productiveness by fixing atmospheric nitrogen for its necessity and also for the succeeding crop (Bewal et al., 2009).\r\n \r\n\r\nGillette (1958) divided the genus Cyamopsis into three races, viz., Cyamopsis tetragonoloba (L.) Taub, Cyamopsis senegalensis Guill. and Perr. and Cyamopsis serrata Schinz. The haploid and diploid chromosome numbers of all three genus species of Cyamopsis were reported to be n = 7 and 2n = 14. Gillete (1958) suggested that the most probable origin of clusterbean in Africa is due to the presence of many wild relatives in Africa. C. tetragonoloba seeds are almost round. At maturity, C. senegalensis and C. serrata also exhibit pod shattering, although C. tetragonoloba does not (Menon, 1973). From the outside to the inside of the dicotyledonous seed of the clusterbean, three primary portions are present: the husk or hull (14–17%), the endosperm (35–42%), and the germ or embryo (43–47 percent). In contrast to most other legumes, the clusterbean seed has a very big endosperm. When processing clusterbean seeds for gum, dull-white, wrinkle-free seeds are desirable; black seeds are said to provide inferior gum (Bhatia et al., 1979; Hymowitz and Matlock 1963).\r\nIn India, guar is being grown mainly in arid and semi-arid regions of North-Western states of Rajasthan, Gujarat, Haryana, Punjab, parts of Uttar Pradesh, Madhya Pradesh and Tamil Nadu. \r\n\r\n\r\nRajasthan occupies the largest area under guar cultivation (82.1%), followed by Haryana (8.6%), Gujarat (8.3%) and Punjab (1%) which in turn produced 64, 22, 12 and 2 percent guar seeds, respectively (Pathak et al., 2010). In, Gujarat is mainly grown in Banashkantha, Mahesana, Ahmedabad, Anand, Kheda, Gandhinagar, and Kutch districts. The cultivated area under guar in Gujarat was 1.23 lakh ha with a production of 0.86 lakh tonnes and productivity of 699.4 kg/ha (Anonymous, 2021).\r\nThe genetic resources of guar have been employed to raise agricultural yield potential, broaden adaption, develop tolerance to disease, and pest stress, and improve quality and stature. The main genetic support for the crops comes from their wild relatives, who also assist in preserving their prized status. Superior genotypes of clusterbean have been released as a result of the choices made through local landraces (Henry et al., 1992; Bharodia et al., 1993; Mishra et al., 2009). Branched or unbranched plant types, hairy or smooth stems, straight or sickle-shaped pods, pubescent or glabrous leaves, determinate or indeterminate development, and regular or irregular pod-bearing behaviors are only a few of the many variations in the known clusterbean germplasm (Saini et al., 1981). According to Ogwu et al. (2014), one of the most sustainable ways to preserve priceless genetic resources while simultaneously increasing agricultural output and food security are to use a variety of germplasms to improve crops. For this reason, the present study was carried out to evaluate genetic diversity in this priceless legume crop.\r\nMATERIALS AND METHOD\r\nThe present investigation was carried out with thirty diverse clusterbean genotypes (Table 1) received from Pulses Research Station, Sardarkrushinagarand evaluated with four replications in Randomized Block Design (RBD) during Kharif 2020-21 at Agronomy Instructional Farm, S. D. Agricultural University, Sardarkrushinagar, Gujrat. The center is situated 24˚-19\'North latitude and 72˚-19’ East latitude with an elevation of 154.52 meters above mean sea level and represents the North Gujarat Agro-climatic region. The general view of the experimental site is depicted in (Fig. 1). Climatic conditions during the experimental period at present in Table 2 and Fig. 2. Observations from five randomly selected plants of each genotype in each replication were recorded on nine quantitative [days to flowering, plant height (cm), number of branches per plant, number of pod per plant, pod length (cm), days to maturity, number of seed per pod, test weight (g) and seed yield per plant (g)] and two biochemical characters [gum content (%) and protein content (%)]. Each genotype was represented by a single row of 4.0 m in length. The inter and intra-row distances were 45 cm and 15 cm, respectively. The mean performance of each genotype for all traits was subjected to statistical analysis. The analysis was carried out by the Mahalanobis D2 technique (Mahalanobis, 1936). The genotypes were grouped into different clusters following Tocher’s method as described by Rao (1952).\r\nRESULTS AND DISCUSSION\r\nThe foundational element for a successful breeding program is genetic diversity. Any program must include the collection and evaluation of germplasm lines and genotypes of every crop, which increases the potential for utilizing genetic diversity. The Mahalanobis D2 method (Mahalanobis, 1936) is a potent instrument for calculating the genetic divergence among a group of genotypes.\r\nA. Distribution of genotypes evaluated for seed yield into different clusters\r\nTocher\'s approach (Rao, 1952) was used to group the genotypes, with the underlying premise that genotypes within a cluster had lower D2 values among themselves than those from groups belonging to other clusters. From 30 genotypes, five clusters all emerged. Table 3, displays the genotype distributions into five groupings. With eleven genotypes, Cluster II was the largest cluster, followed by Cluster I, which had ten genotypes. Clusters IV and V each have one genotype, while Cluster III has seven genotypes. Remzeena et al. (2018) noted a comparable genotype distribution.\r\nB. Average Intra and inter-cluster D2 value\r\nIntra cluster average D2 values ranged from 0.00 to 113.21. (Table 4) Among the clusters, cluster II had the maximum intra-cluster distance (D2 = 113.21), followed by cluster III (D2 = 109.96) and cluster I (D2 = 109.49). The zero intra-clusters distance was observed for clusters IV and V (D2 = 0.00).\r\nThe maximum inter-cluster distance was recorded between cluster II and cluster IV (D2 = 558.37) followed by that between III and IV (D2 = 494.20), while the minimum inter-cluster distance was observed between clusters I and IV (D2 = 209.26). Inter-cluster distances were higher than intra-cluster distances which indicated the existence of substantial diversity among the genotypes. The selection of parents for crossing from divergent clusters may result in heterotic expression for yield and quality traits. Similar observations were recorded by Kumar et al. (2014).\r\nC. Cluster means seed yield and its components traits\r\nThe mean performance of clusters for eleven characters is presented in (Table 5). Cluster III had the highest cluster mean for days to flowering (46.79), days to maturity (101.04) and plant height (40.83). Cluster IV had the highest cluster mean for the number of branches per plant (5.10), gum content (28.23) and protein content (26.68). Cluster V had the highest cluster mean for the number of pods per plant (39.50), pod length (5.20), test weight (2.99) and seed yield per plant (7.43). Similar observations were recorded by Kumar et al. (2014).\r\nD. The relative contribution of different characters toward genetic diversity\r\nThe components of D2 due to each character variable were ranked ascending to the highest value. The total of these ranks over all possible [n (n − 1)/2] = 435 combinations would provide indirect information about the order of priority in terms of the percentage contribution of the character to the total divergence. These percentages are presented in (Table 6).\r\nAmong all the characters, gum content (42.30 %) contributed the maximum to the diversity by taking the first rank 184 times out of 435 combinations, followed by days to flowering (28.28 %) with 123 times, the number of pods per plant (13.33 %) with 58 times, days to maturity (7.82 %) with 34 times. While, protein content (4.14 %) with 18-time, number of branches per plant (3.45) 15 times, number of seeds per pod (0.23 %) with one time, test weight (0.23 %) with one time and plant height (0.23 %) with one time. While characters like the pod length and seed yield per plant contributed null towards the total genetic divergence.\r\nIn the present study, gum content (42.30 %), days to flowering (28.28 %) and the number of pods per plant (13.33 %) were the main contributors to the total divergence. These traits may play important role in germplasm collection and evaluation. Remzeena et al. (2018) also observed high diversity for days to flowering and moderate to low contribution towards the total divergence, for days to maturity, protein content, number of branches per plant, plant height, number of seeds per pod and test weight; Shekhawat and Choudhary (2004) for days to flowering and Wankhade et al. (2017) for gum content.\r\n','K. B. Mehta, P. J. Patel, P. C. Patel and Manish Sharma (2022). Genetic divergence studies in clusterbean [Cyamopsis tetragonoloba (L.) Taub.]. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 14(3): 1068-1073.'),(5420,'136','Effect of Micro-wave Radiation on in vitro Plant Regeneration in Chrysanthemum (Chrysanthemum morifolium)','M. Kiranmayi, K. Ravindra Kumar, G. Ramanandam and M. Paratpara Rao','182 Effect of Micro-wave Radiation on in vitro Plant Regeneration in Chrysanthemum _Chrysanthemum morifolium_ Kiranmayi M.pdf','',1,'The present investigation on effect of micro-wave irradiation on chrysanthemum in vitro regeneration was conducted at Horticultural Research station, Kovvur, Andhra Pradesh during the year 2021-22. The mutagenic capacity of this electromagnetic radiation still in ambiguous but usage of this micro-wave radiation for crop improvement could be highly useful. The present experiment was conducted in Factorial completely randomized design (CRD). In vitro leaves of chrysanthemum cultivars viz. Marigold (Yellow), New Man (White) and Journey Dark (Purple) were used as explants for micro-wave irradiation and culture initiation. Leaf explants were subjected to different micro wave irradiation periods (0 seconds, 8s, 16s, 32s and 48s). The treated in vitro leaf of all cultivars was cultured on MS medium supplemented with BAP 4.0 mg L-l + NAA 1.0 mgL–l for shoot bud morphogenesis. Observations revealed that, percent explant survival was gradually decreased with the increase of irradiation time from zero to 48 seconds in different cycles. Similar trend was found in parameters like per cent callus induction, number of regenerated shoots per explant, culture establishment index.','in vitro, leaf, micro-wave, electromagnetic, physical mutagen, radiation, mutation','Prolonged exposure of irradiation to explants resulted in gradual reduction of survival rate (%), callus induction (%), regeneration (%), number of regenerated shoots per explant and culture establishment index compared to lesser irradiation time (8 s irradiation up to 2 cycles). These experimental results confirmed the effect of micro-wave irradiation on damaging of plant tissues to a certain extent. Field evaluation of the regenerants which are exposed to micro-wave radiation will be helpful to confirmation of changes in genetic level. ','INTRODUCTION\r\nChrysanthemum (Chrysanthemum morifolium) is one of the important cut flower and pot plants and are commonly known as ‘Autumn Queen’ or ‘Queen of East’. It is a member of the Asteraceae family and native to Northern hemisphere, chiefly Europe and Asia Anderson (1987). It is one of the important cut flower crops in the international market and ranks 3rd in the global cut flower trade after rose and carnation Datta and Gupta (2012).\r\nMutation breeding is one of the most important and relatively easy breeding methods for creating genetic variability in vegetatively propagated crops especially in ornamentals. Floriculture industry constantly required variability in flower form, shape, size, colour etc. for constant demand in the flower market or nursery. Chrysanthemum is one of the most popular flower crops in Andhra Pradesh and other states of India. Several studies were conducted on chrysanthemum mutation breeding with physical and chemical mutagenic agents (Teixeira da Silva and Kulus 2014; Oladosu et al., 2016) for crop improvement. However, on the other hand, very little information is available on the use of micro-wave irradiation in crop improvement of horticultural crops especially ornamental plants. Micro-waves are part of electromagnetic radiation and widely used in industrial and commercial applications. These are also useful in sterilization (Tisserat et al., 1992), rapid drying Diprose (2001), rewarming of cryopreserved explants (Halmagyi et al., 2017) and mutagenic studies (Miler and Kulus 2018). This radiation is mainly used in the laboratory for dielectric heating Diprose (2001). Micro-wave ovens used as home appliances 2.45 GHz frequency are common for heating. This low cost and easy accessible radiation could be an alternate source for changing genetic variability in plants to the harmful chemical mutagens or less available physical mutagens in crop improvement programmes. \r\nRobust in vitro protocols were standardized at Dr. YSRHU-HRS, Kovvur for chrysanthemum plant regeneration in different genotypes by employing different explants like nodal segments, shoot tips, leaves and ray florets. Chrysanthemum was selected for micro-wave induced mutation breeding, owing to ease in inducing variation and amenability to in vitro experiments. Different cultivars may act differently in terms of mutation response. Due to presence of a high portion of dominant alleles for flower colour, pink or purple genotypes undergo mutations more frequently, while yellow-coloured genotypes were most stable and mutate the less frequently (Kulus, 2017). To clarify the ability of micro-wave radiation for inducing the mutants, the present experiment is conducted on three chrysanthemum cultivars viz. yellow flowered ‘Marigold’, white flowered ‘New Man’ and pink flowered ‘Journey Dark’.\r\nMATERIAL AND METHODS\r\nThe experiment was conducted at Dr. YSRHU, Horticultural Research Station, Kovvur during the year 2021-22. The experiment was conducted in factorial completely randomized block design (FCRD). In vitro leaves of chrysanthemum cultivars ‘Marigold’, ‘New Man’ and ‘Journey Dark’ were used as explants. The uniform size explants were collected from in vitro grown cultures from the healthy shoots. Micro-wave radiation was carried out at the IFB microwave oven with the power of 800 Wcm−2 and the frequency of 2.45 GHz. Explants were irradiated with Micro-wave radiation for eight seconds in repeated cycles, as following: 1 × 8s, 2 × 8s (16s), 3 × 8s (24s) and 4 × 8s (32s). The excised leaves were cultured on MS media supplemented with BAP 4.0 mg L-l + NAA 1.0mg L–l for regeneration. Culture bottle containing leaves were treated with the different cycles of irradiation times. In between successive irradiations, the bottle with explants were cooled in ice water for 5minutes to maintain constant room temperature. Data recorded 30 days after culture initiation of percent ex plant survival, callus induction, regeneration and culture establishment index. \r\nRESULTS AND DISCUSSIONS\r\nEffect of microwave irradiation on different cultivars\r\nA. Explant survival (%)\r\nThe data depicted in Table 1. revealed that, the explant survival exhibited significant differences among the cultivar, irradiation time and their interactions. Among the three cultivars, the maximum explant survival (75.00 %) was noticed in cv. Marigold (C1) which was significantly superior to cv. Journey Dark (C3) (69.40%) and the lowest survival was recorded in cv. New Man (C2) (60.68%). The maximum explant survival (92.56%) was obtained in without irradiation (E1) followed by 8s irradiation (one cycles) (E2) (81.00%). The minimum explant survival was noticed in 8s irradiation (4 cycles) (E5) (41.33%).\r\nCultivars × micro-wave irradiation interaction results revealed that, the maximum explant survival (93.33%) was observed in cv. New Man exposed to no irradiation (C2E1) which was on par with cv. Journey Dark + without irradiation (C3E1) (92.67%) and cv. Marigold + without irradiation (C1E1) (91.67%). The minimum explant survival was recorded in cv. New Man + (4 cycles) (C2E5) (31.1%) which was on par with cv. Journey Dark + 8s irradiation (1 cycle) (C3E2) (36.33%).\r\nMicro-waves are also part of electromagnetic radiation with a range of 300 MHz to 300 GHz and the wavelengths of 1 m - 1mm (Halmagyi et al., 2017). When the electromagnetic microwave radiation from oscillating electric fields is absorbed in tissues, it provokes a rotation of water molecules, which leads to heating Khalafallah and Sallam (2009). It is known that this increase in temperature may lead to reduction of explant survival, regeneration and proliferation Diprose (2001). There are very few research findings on the change of gene expression and mutations induction after the microwave irradiation in Vigna aconitifolia (Jacq.), Marechal (Jangid et al., 2010) and chrysanthemum Miler and Kulus (2018).\r\nB. Callus induction (%)\r\nThe data presented in Table 2 revealed that, among the cultivars, Marigold (C1) recorded maximum per cent callus induction (71.20%) which was significantly superior to cv. Journey dark(C3) (60.07) and minimum callus induction was recorded in cv.New Man (C2) (55.13%). An irradiation of 0 s (E1) recorded maximum percent of callus induction (86.67%) followed by 8 s irradiation (1 cycle) (E2) (76.78). However, minimum per cent callus induction was recorded in 8 s irradiation (4 cycles) (E5)(33.89%). \r\nC. Regeneration (%)\r\nThe percent regeneration varied significantly with different cultivars and irradiation frequencies. Maximum per cent regeneration was recorded in cv. Marigold (66.80%) which was statistically superior with cv. Journey Dark (C3) (52.27%). However, minimum per cent regeneration was observed in New Man (C2) (46.33%) (Table 3). Among the irradiation cycles, maximum per cent regeneration (82.44%) was noticed in 0s (without irradiation) (E1) followed by (70.89%) in 8s irradiation (1 cycle) (E2) and lowest percent regeneration was observed in 8 s irradiation + 4 cycles (E5) (27.33%).\r\nAmong the interaction effects, Marigold + without irradiation (C1E1) recorded maximum per cent regeneration (85.67%) which was on par with cv. New Man + without irradiation (C2E1) (81.33%) followed by cv. Journey Dark + without irradiation (C3E1) (80.33%) and minimum per cent regeneration (15.00 %) was observed in cv. New Man + 8s irradiation (4 cycles) (C2E5) and it was statistically on par with cv. Journey Dark + 8s irradiation (4 cycles) (C3E5) (22.00%).\r\nD. Number of regenerated shoots \r\nNumber of regenerated shoots was decreased significantly with increasing irradiation exposure. Significant differences were observed among the cultivars (C) and irradiation time (E) with respect to number of regenerated shoots per explant in in vitro conditions (Table 4). Among the cultivars tested, maximum number of regenerated shoots per explant were observed in cv. Marigold (C1) (5.69) and statistically superior over cv. Journey Dark (C3) (5.26) and minimum number of regenerated shoots in cv. New Man (C2) (4.34). Number of regenerated shoots were maximum in 8s irradiation + 1 cycle (E2) (6.01) followed by in 8s irradiation + 2 cycles (E3) (2.88). The minimum number of shoots multiplied per explant was noticed in 8 s irradiation + 4 cycles (E5) (0.56). \r\nThe effect of physical mutagens on different chrysanthemum explant types and their in vitro morphogenetic response was also reported by (Zalewska et al., 2010). They had reported the reduction of adventitious shoots on nodal explants of ‘Satinbleu’ and completely inhibited the morphogenesis in leaf explants of ‘Albugo’ and ‘Satinbleu’. On the other hand, (Miler and Kulus 2018) observed very less influence of the microwave irradiation on the explant survival, callus formation and further regeneration of shoots which is in contrast to the present experimental results. This variation might be occurred due to the genotype variation, physiological status of mother plants and other external factors.\r\n \r\nE. Culture establishment index\r\nThe data revealed in Table 5 indicated that, there were significant differences for culture establishment index among the cultivar (C), irradiation time (E) and interaction between cultivars and irradiation time (C × E). The maximum culture establishment index was observed in cv. Marigold (C1) (448.64) followed by cv. Journey Dark (C3) (367.00) which was statistically significant with each other and minimum culture establishment index was recorded in cv. New Man (C2) (313.70). An irradiation of 0 s (E1) observed the maximum culture establishment index (1179.51) followed by 8 s irradiation + 1 cycle (E2) (435.00). The minimum culture establishment index was recorded in 8 s irradiation + 4 cycles (E5) (22.78).Among the interactions between cultivar and irradiation time (C × E), cv. Marigold + 0 s irradiation (C1E1) (1339.02) was found to be significantly superior over cv. New Man + without irradiation (C2E1) (1153.8) and cv. Journey Dark + without irradiation (C3E1) (1045.6). In all three cultivars, increasing the exposure of micro - wave irradiation significantly decreased the culture establishment index. No cultures were established when the explants of New Man exposed to 4 cycles of irradiation 8 seconds each (C2E5).\r\n','M. Kiranmayi K., Ravindra Kumar, G. Ramanandam and M. Paratpara Rao (2022). Effect of Micro-wave Radiation on in vitro Plant Regeneration in Chrysanthemum (Chrysanthemum morifolium). Biological Forum – An International Journal, 14(3): 1074-1078.'),(5421,'136','Influence of GA3, Zinc and Boron on Fruit drop, Yield and Quality of Litchi (Litchi chinensis Sonn.)','Ajeet Gupta, V.K. Tripathi and J.K. Shukla','183 Influence of GA3, Zinc and Boron on Fruit drop, Yield and Quality of Litchi Litchi chinensis Sonn. V.K. Tripathi.pdf','',1,'An experiment was conducted during the year 2022 to study the influence of GA3, zinc and boron on fruit drop, fruit cracking, yield and quality of litchi. For this ten treatments viz., three level each of GA3 (25, 50 and 75 ppm), ZnSO4 (0.2, 0.4 and 0.6 %) and borax (0.2, 0.4 and 0.6 %) along with one control, replicated thrice in RBD were used for the experimental work. The recommended dose of fertilizers along with other horticultural and agronomic operations was applied in all treatments including control. The plant bio-regulator and mineral nutrients were sprayed twice on the tree, once before flowering on 05/02/2022 and secondly again at pea stage offruits on 15/03/2022 with a sprayer having a very fine nozzle. The foliar application of micronutrients along with plant bio-regulators plays an important role in manipulating many physiological phenomena, improving the yield and quality and enhanced the productivity of plants by fulfilling the nutritional needs of fruit crops. The utilization of boron helps in the movement of sugar and advances fruit bud formation. From the experiment, it is reported that the spraying of borax at 0.4 % resulted minimum fruit drop (69.45%), fruit cracking (4.63 %), reduced weight of seed (2.30 g) and gave maximum fruit retention (30.55%), fruit sets (62.50 %), fruit length (4.50 cm) and width (3.96 cm), weight (24.85 g), weight of pulp (20.73 g), fruit pulp: seed ratio (5.50 %), fruit yield (120.85 kg/plant), total soluble solids (22.55ºBrix) and total sugars (18.42 %) with minimum percentage of titratable acidity (0.41%) under plains of central Uttar Pradesh.','Litchi, GA3, ZnSO4, Borax, Fruit drop, Yield and Quality','From this experiment,it is securely concluded that the use of GA3, ZnSO4 and borax significantly reduced fruit drop, fruit cracking and increased fruit retention, fruit size, yield and quality attributes in litchi. Spraying of borax at 0.4 % results in minimum fruit drop (69.45%), fruit cracking (2.63 %), reduced weight of seed (2.30 g) along with maximum fruit retention (30.55%), fruits set (62.50 %), fruit length (4.50 cm) and width (3.96 cm), weight (24.85 g), weight of pulp (20.73 g), fruit pulp: seed ratio (5.50 %), fruit yield (120.85 kg/plant), total soluble solids (22.55ºBrix) and total sugars (18.42 %) with minimum percentage of titratable acidity (0.41 %) under plains of central Uttar Pradesh.','INTRODUCTION\r\nLitchi (Litchi chinensis Sonn.) is a tasty and juicy fruit of exceptional quality. Botanically it belongs to the family Sapindaceae and sub-family Nepheleae, containing around 150 genera and 2000 species, having chromosome number 2n=30. It is native of South China and widely cultivated for its valued fruit even before 1766 B.C. in China. Because of explicit climatic prerequisites, the successful cultivation of litchi is limited to very few nations of the world. India is the second-biggest producer of litchi next to China. Besides China and India, other significant litchi-growing nations are West Indies, Brazil, Hawaii, Madagascar, Southern Japanand Spain, etc. The litchi is one of the most environmentally sensitive fruit trees. Fruit cracking is a widespread issue for several fruits such as litchi, citrus, grapes, date palm, pomegranate and cherry etc., and losses due to this problem are sometimes as high as 75%. The cracked fruits decay rapidly and are not valued for selling. \r\nGibberellin is principally utilized for controlling numerous physiological events and is commercially used to improve the quality of fruits, whereas, zinc activated numerous enzymes in metabolism. Zinc is additionally a fundamental part of the proteinases and peptidases enzymes system. Zinc is used to induce early blossoming, improving size, growth and quality in many fruits. Boron, on the other hand, is considered fundamental for hormone metabolism, photosynthetic activities, cellular differentiation and water absorption in plant parts. It is also involved in reproduction, germination of pollen tubes and fertilization, therefore, keeping in view, the importance of these plant bio-regulator and micronutrients the present experiment was planned to infer concrete information on the effect of these in respect of fruit drop, fruit cracking, yield and quality in litchi.\r\nMATERIALS AND METHODS\r\nForty-two years old but properly maintainedplants of the litchi cv. Rose Scented were selected for the purpose of the experimentationin the garden, Department of Fruit Science, C.S. Azad University of Agriculture and Technology, Kanpur-208002 (U.P.), India, during the year 2022. There were ten treatments viz.,three level each of GA3 (25, 50 and 75 ppm), ZnSO4 (0.2, 0.4 and 0.6 %) and borax (0.2, 0.4 and 0.6 %) along withone control, replicated thrice in RBD were used for the experimentation work. The recommended dose of fertilizers was applied in all treatments including control. The plant bio-regulator and mineral nutrients were sprayed on the treetwice, once before flowering on 05/02/2022 and secondly again at the pea stage offruit on 15/03/2022 with a sprayer having a very fine nozzle. The detergent powder was well mixed in the spray solution which act as a sticker before spraying. The information recorded on different parameters during experimental period was statistically analyzed.\r\nObservations on fruit drop, fruit retention, fruit set and fruit cracking percentages were recorded during the fruiting season. At each picking, data on fruit weight and yield per plant were recorded. The length and width of ten randomly selected fruits were measured with the help ofvernier calliper and expressed in cm. Data on weight of pulp, weight of seed andpulp/seed ratio were also recorded.The TSS of fruitswas recorded with the assistance of Erma hand refractometer. The titratable acidity and total sugars contents were determined by the techniques suggested in AOAC (1980). \r\nRESULTS AND DISCUSSION\r\nFruit drop and retention. With the foliar application of plant bio-regulator and micro-nutrients significantly reduced fruit drop with increased fruit retention were observed during the experimentation period. The minimum fruit drop (69.45%) and maximum fruit retention (30.55%) was noted under borax 0.4 % followed by borax 0.6 % (71.54 and 28.46%, respectively), GA3 75 ppm (72.19 and 27.81%, respectively) and ZnSO4 0.6 % (73.78 and 26.22%, respectively) treated plants, whereas, maximum fruit drop (78.96%) and minimum fruit retention (21.04 %) was recorded in plants kept under control (Table 1). The spraying of plants with Borax was found more effective than GA3 and ZnSO4 in controlling fruit drops and increasing fruit retention.\r\nThis increase in fruit retention and reduction in fruit drop of litchi fruits might be due to the reason that borax and zinc sulphate isalso an important part of the cell wall (middle lamella) of plant cells along with calcium pectate which plays an important role in the strengthening of pedicel attached to the proximal end of fruit which resulted in less fruit drop. Similarly,the reduction in fruit drop by the spray of borax may also be due to the indirect action of boron in auxin synthesis that delayed the formation of the abscission layer during the early stages of fruit development, which ultimately increases fruit retention percentage. These findings align with the result of Saraswat et al. (2006); Chauhan et al. (2019) in litchiand Tripathi et al. (2018) in aonla.\r\nFruits Set. From the present investigation (Table 1), it is observed that the number of fruit sets per plant increased significantly with the use of plant bio-regulator and micronutrients. The maximum number of fruits set was obtained in plants treated with borax 0.4 % (62.50 %) followed by borax 0.6 % (61.80 %), GA3 75 ppm (60.35 %) and ZnSO4 0.6 % (58.45 %), whereas, the minimum fruit set (46.85 %) was recorded in the plant which was kept under control. \r\nThis increase in fruit set with borax and zinc application might be due to its effect on the process of fertilization and hormonal (GA3) metabolism, which proved helpful in maintaining the better nutritional status of the tree and ultimately proved beneficial in improving the fruit set. These findings agree with the result of Chauhan et al., (2019); Das et al., (2020) in litchi.\r\nFruit Cracking. The data presented in Table 1, clearly revealed that the minimum fruit cracking (4.63 %) was observed in fruits which were produced from the plants treated with borax at 0.4 %concentration which was followed by borax 0.6 % (4.90 %), GA3 75 ppm (11.62 %) and ZnSO4 0.6 % (10.46 %), whereas, the maximum fruit cracking (16.41 %)was recorded in plants which were produced from the plant kept under control. The spraying of borax was found more effective than GA3 and ZnSO4. It is well known that borax and zinc spray regulate auxin in the plants which might have increased the synthesis of tryptophan and indirectly also regulated water relations in plants. The application of auxin might have increased the osmotic pressure of the cell sap, which will induce water uptake and reduce the cracking percentage in fruits. The findings are following the reports of Kaur (2017); Chauhan et al. (2018) in litchi.\r\nPhysical Parameters\r\nFruit Size. The size of fruits were recorded by measuring of fruits with vernier callipers and average value was obtained. The application of borax significantly influenced the size of litchi fruits and maximum length (4.50 cm) and width (3.96 cm) were observed with borax 0.4 % followed by borax 0.6 % (3.97 and 3.74 cm, respectively), GA3 75 ppm (3.74 and 3.59 cm, respectively) and ZnSO4 0.4 % (3.62 and 3.64 cm, respectively), whereas, the minimum fruit length (3.10 cm) and width (2.85 cm) was recorded in fruits which were produced from the plants which were kept under control i.e., without application of non-amount of plant bio-regulator and micronutrients (Table 1). \r\nThis improvement in fruit size can thus be attributed due tothe greater mobilization of food materials fromthe site of their production to the storage organsunder the influence of applied micronutrients. Since boron plays an important role in nitrogen metabolism and other changes in fruits, thus it might have increased the fruit size. The results are in agreement with the findings of Singh et al. (2009) in aonla and Shukla et al. (2011) in aonla cv. NA-7.\r\nFruit Weight. Fruit weight was significantly influenced by the foliar application of plant bio-regulators and micro-nutrients. The significantly maximum weight of fruit was recorded which were produced from the plants treated with the application of borax 0.4 % (24.85 g) followed by GA3 50 ppm (23.36 g) and ZnSO4 0.4 % (22.39 g) which are significantly higher than all other treatments, whereas, the fruits of minimum weight (18.50 g) was produced from the plants which were kept untreated as control (Table 1). \r\nLitchi is indehiscent nut fruit, in which the tubercles develop from the wall of the ovary from which hair had fallen off after fertilization. Fruits generally develop from one locule of the ovary due to enlargement of the cells of the mesocarp. In the present investigation fresh weight of fruits was promoted significantly with the application of GA3, zinc sulphate and borax as compared to their control. As regards borax and zinc are concerned, these play a positive role in nucleoprotein, amino acids, amino sugars and many other compound formation in plant system. This would allow stretching of the cell wall along with greater water uptake and increased cell size which ultimately increase the size of fruits being directly responsible for the increase in weight of fruit also. These investigations get support from the findings of Mishra et al. (2012) in mango and Kaur (2017) in litchi.\r\nFruitpulp and Seed Weight. Significantly improved fruit pulp and reduced seed weight were recorded with the foliar application of plant bio-regulator and micro-nutrients. Significantly more weight of pulp (20.73 g) and reduced weight of seed (2.30 g) in fruits were recorded, which were harvested from the plants treatedwith borax 0.4 % closely followed by GA3 50 ppm (18.14 and 3.13 g, respectively) and ZnSO4 @ 0.4 % (17.14 and 3.11 g, respectively), whereas, the fruits with minimum pulp weight (11.36 g)and maximum weight of seed (3.96 g) were produced from the untreated control plant (Table 2). The remaining other treatments also significantly increase pulp content and reduced seed weight in the fruits as compared to the control.\r\nThis increase in fruit pulp content and reduced seed weight with the application of boron might be due to the reason that borax plays an important role in overcoming the boron deficiency in fruits and hence the application of borax might have overcome the boron deficiency, which in turn caused maximum pulp content. Boron is an essential nutrient that is involved in several physiological processes in fruit, involving in the maintenance of cell wall integrity and upto some extent found inhibiting the senescence of litchi fruits. These results are in concurrence with Saraswat et al. (2006) in litchi, Singh et al. (2017) in mango and Kaur (2017) in litchi.\r\nPulp: Seed Ratio. Fruit pulp: seed ratio was significantly higher in fruits which were produced from the plants which were sprayed with borax 0.4% (5.50 %) followed by borax 0.6 % (4.67 %), GA3 75 ppm (4.48 %) and ZnSO4 @ 0.6 % (4.42 %). The minimum pulp: seed ratio (3.18 %) was obtained in fruits which were produced from the control plants (Table 2). This improvement in pulp: seed ratio may be due to more accumulation of food substances in elongated cells and intercellular space of mesocarp.\r\nThe scenario of the above findings on pulp: seed ratio showed the prominent influence of borax rather than GA3 and zinc sulphate in promoting pulp: seed ratio. It might be due to the faster-leading mobilization of sugars into the fruit and increasing intercellular space in the pulp.\r\nBorax also plays important role in hormonal metabolism and photosynthesis and cellular differentiation and water absorption in plant parts and this in the present study would have manipulated pulp and seed weight and ultimately their ratio. The findings are following the reports of Saraswat et al. (2006) in litchi; Singh et al. (2017) in mango and Kaur (2017) in litchi. \r\nFruit Yield. In litchi, the period of fruiting is characterized by high temperature, strong winds and extremes of soil moisture and humidity, but the effects of the environment have been examined superficially. Fruit yield (kg/plant) was significantly influenced by the foliar application of plant bio-regulator and micronutrients as compared to control. The plants sprayed with borax 0.4 % produced highest fruit yield (120.85 kg/plant) followed by borax 0.6 % (118.65 kg/plant), GA3 50 ppm (107.50 kg/plant) and ZnSO4 0.4 % (112.56 kg/plant). The minimum yield (77.30 kg/plant) was obtained in control plants (Fig. 1).\r\nThis increase in yield with bio-regulator and micronutrients application proved highly helpful in increasing photosynthesis, mobilization of food material and accumulations of quality constituents promoting the physical attribute like fruit weight and size which ultimately increase the fruit yield. These findings are similar to the reports of Singh et al., (2017) in mango and Chauhan et al. (2019) in litchi, Chaturvedi, et al. (2005) in strawberry, Badal and Tripathi (2021) in guava.\r\nChemical Parameters\r\nTSS, Total Sugars and Titratable Acidity. Data presented in Table 2 revealed that the maximum total soluble solids (22.55ºBrix) and total sugars (18.42 %) contents were recorded in the fruits which were produced from the plants treated with borax 0.4 % followed by ZnSO4 0.2 % (20.34°Brix and 16.59 %, respectively). This increase in TSS and total sugars content with borax and zinc application might be due to their increased active role in the mobilization of food material leading to the accumulation of quality constituents like carbohydrates which ultimately promoted the quality attributes. These findings are align with the results of Kaur (2017) in litchi, Singh et al. (2017) in mango and Chaturvedi et al. (2005) in strawberry.\r\nTitratable acidity content in fresh fruits was decreased by the application of plant bio-regulator and micronutrients. The minimum percentage of titratable acidity was found in the fruits which were produced from the plants treated with borax @ 0.4 % (0.41 %) closely followed by borax @ 0.6 % (0.42 %), whereas, the maximum titratable acidity contents (0.50 %) were recorded in fruits which were produced from untreated (control) plants. These findings are in accordance with the results of Kaur (2017) and Singh et al., (2018) in litchiand Singh et al. (2017) in mango.\r\n','Ajeet Gupta, V.K. Tripathi and J.K. Shukla (2022). Influence of GA3, Zinc and Boron on Fruit drop, Yield and Quality of Litchi (Litchi chinensis Sonn.). Biological Forum – An International Journal, 14(3): 1079-1083.'),(5422,'136','Effect of different Concentrations of PGRs on Shooting and Survival of Stem Cuttings in Lemon (Citrus limon Burm.) cv. Pant lemon-1, under Western U.P. conditions','Prashant Gautam, S.K. Tripathi, Arvind Kumar, Satya Prakash, R.S. Sengar, Manuj Awasthi, Upendra Maurya and Amit Kumar','184 Effect of different Concentrations of PGRs on Shooting and Survival of Stem Cuttings in Lemon _Citrus limon Burm._ cv. Pant lemon-1, under Western U.P. conditions Prashant Gautam.pdf','',1,'An experiment was conducted to study the Effect of different concentrations of PGRs on shooting and survival of stem cuttings in Lemon (Citrus limon Burm.) cv. Pant lemon-1, under western UP conditions at the Horticultural Research Centre, College of Horticulture, Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel University of Agriculture and Technology, Meerut, Uttar Pradesh during the year 2021-22. The treatments included T0 (Control), T1 (1000 ppm IBA), T2 (2000 ppm IBA), T3 (3000 ppm IBA), T4 (500 ppm NAA), T5 (750 ppm NAA), T6 (1000 ppm NAA), T7 (1000 ppm IBA + 500 ppm NAA), T8 (1000 ppm IBA + 750 ppm NAA), T9 (1000 ppm IBA + 1000 ppm NAA), T10 (2000 ppm IBA + 500 ppm NAA), T11 (2000 ppm IBA + 750 ppm NAA), T12 (2000 ppm IBA + 1000 ppm NAA), T13 (3000 ppm IBA + 500 ppm NAA), T14 (3000 ppm IBA + 750 ppm NAA) and T15 (3000 ppm IBA + 1000 ppm NAA) were laid out in Randomized Block Design with three replications. It was further noted that days taken to first bud sprout (8.53 days), sprouting (83.33%), plant height (15.55cm), number of shoots per cutting at 30, 60 and 90 days after planting (2.98, 3.88 and 4.88 respectively), number of leaves per cutting (14.28), shoot diameter (3.41mm) and final survival (83.33%) of cuttings were significantly higher in cuttings dipped in(2000 ppm IBA + 1000 ppm NAA) concentration than other treatments the data also showed that growth parameters were gradually increased with increase in the combination of IBA and NAA i.e. T12 (2000 ppm IBA + 1000 ppm NAA). The exogenous supply of IBA and NAA has a positive effect on the establishment of stem cuttings of lemon and application of 2000 ppm IBA + 1000 ppm NAA proves to be the best treatment for better root and shoot formations.','IBA, Lemon, NAA, Pant Lemon-1, Cuttings','Based on the results, different IBA and NAA concentrations and their combinations were applied for shooting and survival of stem cutting of lemon cv. Pant Lemon-1. Out of these, the treatment; T12 i.e. IBA 2000 ppm + NAA 1000 ppm was found most significant treatment for the shooting and survival percentage of stem cuttings in lemon (Citrus limon Burm.) cv. Pant lemon-1 as compared to control ones under Western U.P. conditions.','INTRODUCTION\r\nThe genus Citrus which includes more than 162 species belongs to the Order Geraniales, Family Rutaceae, subfamily Aurantioideae, tribes Citreae, sub-tribe Citrinae having chromosome number 2n=18. Most of the Citrus species are native to tropical and sub-tropical regions of South-East Asia, particularly India and China and the regions between these two countries. Citrus limon Burm. F. is native to East Asia (Salaria, 2004).\r\nLemons are one of the important citrus species. It possesses greater adaptability to different climatic conditions, so is grown with equal success in tropical, subtropical and even some favorable parts of the temperate regions of the world. It is a part of a healthy diet and is the best source of vitamin C, sugars, amino acids and other nutrients (Sharma et al., 2012).\r\nIn India, citrus is the third largest component of the fruit industry next to banana and mango. Citrus ranks are second in area and third in production among all fruits in the Indian scenario. At present, in India total area under citrus cultivation is 1097 thousand hectares with a production of 14245 thousand MT. Whereas, the total area under lemon cultivation is 327 thousand hectares with a production of 3548 thousand metric tonnes. The major citrus-growing states in India are Andhra Pradesh, Maharashtra, Punjab, Madhya Pradesh, Gujarat, Karnataka, Rajasthan, Assam, Orissa, Uttarakhand, Uttar Pradesh, Himachal Pradesh and Tamil Nadu. Uttar Pradesh grows citrus in the 490-thousand-hectare area with a production of 1941 metric tonnes (Anonymous, 2020).\r\nLemons are generally not propagated from seeds used for commercial cultivation, as these seeds can produce variable seedling populations or longer juvenile stages (Satpal et al., 2014). A cultivar of lemon i.e., Pant Lemon-1 was a selection from Kagzi Kalan. It is a high-yielding, medium-sized fruit (80-100 g), round and smooth, with a thin, juicy skin, resistant to canker, clover and blight. Due to these improved characteristics, the demand for this breed at the national level is very high. High-quality planting material is always the most important requirement for fruit growers. Therefore, the main goal is to produce high-quality planting material for distribution to growers. For the above purposes, there is a need for a method of rapidly multiplying plant matter to obtain high-quality plants. Obtaining ideal planting materials through vegetative propagation such as cuttings. Cuttings are the cheapest, fastest and easiest way to propagate lemon plants. The type of plants developed by cuttings is real, with uniform growth and uniform crown. This plant blooms and bears fruit earlier than seedlings. The success of cuttings depends on a number of factors related to the plant, such as mother plant, tumefaciens age, tree part used, time of planting, rainfall, moisture, temperature, rooting medium, and post-care (Frey et al., 2006).\r\nAsexual reproduction is preferred as it ensures the true-to-plant type with uniform quality and proper bearing. The purpose of treating cuttings with auxin growth regulators is to increase the rooting rate, accelerate rooting, increase the number and quantity of rooting percent of cuttings, and make rooting uniform. Trees on these rootstocks are vigorous, early-maturing, thorn-less, very drought-tolerant and load-bearing (Singh and Singh, 2016).\r\nPlant growth regulators are artificially generated chemicals that operate in extremely low levels at places other than the site of synthesis to influence various physiological processes that modulate plant growth and development. Plant growth and development are ultimately the functions of all essential elements and five important hormones; Auxin, Gibberellins, Cytokinin, Abscisic Acid and Ethylene (Hajam et al., 2017). These growth regulators develop a higher number of branches, higher leaf area and a better ratio between tiny roots and skeletal ones (Avdiu et al., 2015). In auxins; indole-3-butyric acid (IBA), naphthalene acetic acid (NAA) and 6-Benzylaminopurine (BAP) are used to promote rooting and shooting in cuttings (Hartmann et al., 2002).\r\nMATERIALS AND METHODS\r\nThis study was conducted during 2021-22 at the Horticultural Research Centre, Faculty of Horticulture, Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel University of Agriculture and Technology, Meerut, Uttar Pradesh. Geographically, Meerut is located at latitude 290 40\' N, longitude 770 42\' E, and 237 meters above sea level (MSL). Meerut\'s average annual rainfall is about 840 mm, of which nearly 85% is absorbed by the monsoon season from June to September and the rest from October to May. The experiment consisted of 16 treatments and was performed in a randomized block design (RBD) with 3 replicates. Each replicate consisted of 10 cuttings for a total of 30 cuttings per treatment. A total of 480 cuttings were included in the entire experiment. The treatments were T0 (Control), T1 (1000 ppm IBA), T2 (2000 ppm IBA), T3 (3000 ppm IBA), T4 (500 ppm NAA), T5 (750 ppm NAA), T6 (1000 ppm NAA), T7 (1000 ppm IBA + 500 ppm NAA), T8 (1000 ppm IBA + 750 ppm NAA), T9 (1000 ppm IBA + 1000 ppm NAA), T10 (2000 ppm IBA + 500 ppm NAA), T11 (2000 ppm IBA + 750 ppm NAA), T12 (2000 ppm IBA + 1000 ppm NAA), T13 (3000 ppm IBA + 500 ppm NAA), T14 (3000 ppm IBA + 750 ppm NAA)andT15 (3000 ppm IBA + 1000 ppm NAA).To obtain stem cuttings, one-year-old shoots of the lemon variety Pant Lemon-1 were selected for stem cuttings. The lemon cuttings were immersed in IBA and NAA concentrations, and the control cuttings were directly planted without any treatment. These cuttings are then planted in polyethylene bags (12 cm long, 6.5 cm wide) containing soil, Farm Yard Manure (FYM) and sand in a 2:1:1 ratio. Cuttings treated with IBA and NAA performed better on all growth parameters compared to controls. The various shooting parameters i.e., days taken to first bud sprout, sprouting (%), plant height (cm), number of shoots per cutting, number of leaves per cutting, shoot diameter (mm) and final survival (%) of cutting were recorded. The data recorded were statistically analyzed by using RBD as suggested by Gomez and Gomez (1996).\r\nRESULTS AND DISCUSSION\r\nThe effect of different treatments on shoot growth parameters significantly affects the days taken to bud sprout, sprouting (%), plant height (cm), number of shoots at 30, 60 and 90 DAP, number of leaves per cutting, shoot diameter (mm) and final survival (%) of stem cutting in Lemon. In the present investigation, a significant difference has been observed among all the treatments (Table 1).\r\nDays taken to first bud sprout: The different concentrations of PGRs showed a significant effect on days taken to first bud sprout in stem cutting of Lemon. The combined application of T12 (IBA 2000 ppm + NAA 1000 ppm) induced early sprouting (8.53 days) followed by T2 (IBA 2000 ppm) and T6 (NAA 1000 ppm) treatment. Whereas, the maximum days taken (17.74 days) to first bud sprout were recorded under T0 (Control) treatment. The earliest number of days taken to first bud sprouting may be caused by the downward transfer of carbohydrates and auxin build-up inside of cuttings for the completion of physiological processes. Similar findings were also reported by Awasthi et al. (2008); Patel et al. (2018); Kumar and Singh (2020); Patel et al. (2021).\r\nSprouting (%): In the present study, the application of different plant growth regulators has significantly influenced sprouting (%) in stem cutting of Lemon. Among all the treatments, the combined application of T12 (IBA 2000 ppm + NAA 1000 ppm) treatment gave maximum sprouting (83.33%) followed by T2 (IBA 2000 ppm) and T6 (NAA 1000 ppm) treatment. However, the minimum sprouting (36.66%) was recorded under the T0 (Control) treatment. It might be due toa high accumulation of callus formation in cuttings with an optimum dose of auxin resulting highest percentage of sprouted cuttings. The present findings collaborated with earlier findings of Bhatt and Tomar (2010); Kumar et al. (2015); Fadli et al. (2017); Malakar et al. (2019).\r\n\r\nPlant height (cm): The favorable and significant influence of plant growth regulators was found on plant height (cm) in stem cutting of Lemon. Among all the treatments, the combined application of T12 (IBA 2000 ppm + NAA 1000 ppm) gave maximum plant height (15.55 cm) followed by T2 (IBA 2000 ppm) and T6 (NAA 1000 ppm) treatment. Moreover, the minimum plant height (6.31 cm) was recorded under the T0 (Control) treatment. It might be due to auxin inhibiting axillary bud break on developing shoots and it stimulates the shoot initiation. Auxin treatment enhanced rooting, plant growth and produced taller and healthy plants. Similar results were also observed by Patel et al. (2018).\r\nNumber of shoots per cutting: In the present investigation, the application of different plant growth regulators significantly influenced the number of shoots per cutting in stem cutting of Lemon. Among all the treatments, the combined application of T12 (IBA 2000 ppm + NAA 1000 ppm) treatment gave the better number of shoots (2.98, 3.88 and 4.88 respectively) followed by T2 (IBA 2000 ppm) and T6 (NAA 1000 ppm) treatment. Whereas, the minimum number of shoots (1.62, 1.92 and 2.58 respectively) per cutting was recorded under T0 (Control) treatment at 30, 60 and 90 days after planting of lemon cutting. Such types of observation might be due to activation of auxin in vegetative parts by using auxin like IBA and NAA. Similar results were earlier reported by Kumar et al. (2004); Murkute et al. (2009); Singh et al. (2015); Kumar et al. (2015) and Kumar and Singh (2020).\r\nNumber of leaves per cutting: In the current investigation, the application of different plant growth regulators significantly influenced the number of leaves per cutting in stem cutting of lemon. Among all the treatments, the combined application of T12 (IBA 2000 ppm + NAA 1000 ppm) treatment gave the better number of leaves (14.28) followed by T2 (IBA 2000 ppm) and T6 (NAA 1000 ppm) treatment. However, the minimum number of leaves (4.82) per cutting was recorded under the T0 (Control) treatment. This may be attributed to its effect of shifting of assimilate partitioning from roots to leaves and increased levels of chlorophyll and carbohydrates in leaves, stems and roots besides increased mineral content, hormonal balance and soluble protein in leaves. This result was in agreement with the findings of Seran and Umadevi (2011); Satpal et al. (2014); Ahmad et al. (2018); Malakar et al. (2019); Patel et al. (2021).\r\nShoot diameter (mm): The shoot diameter is significantly influenced by the application of different plant growth regulators in the stem cutting of Lemon. Among all the treatments, the combined application of T12 (IBA 2000 ppm + NAA 1000 ppm) treatment gave a better shoot diameter (3.41 mm) followed by T2 (IBA 2000 ppm) and T6 (NAA 1000 ppm) treatment. Whereas, the minimum shoot diameter (1.35 mm) was recorded under the T0 (Control) treatment. It might be due to the activation of auxin content in the vegetative part as acon sequence of better carbohydrate production and assimilation.Similar findings are close in conformity with the earlier results given by Al-Zebari and Al-Brifkany (2015); Satpal et al. (2014); Singh et al. (2016); Fadli et al. (2017) and Patel et al.(2021).\r\nFinal Survival (%): In the present investigation, the application of different plant growth regulators significantly influenced on final survival (%) of stem cutting of lemon. Among all the treatments, the combined application of T12 (IBA 2000 ppm + NAA 1000 ppm) treatment gave better survival (83.33 %) followed by T2 (IBA 2000 ppm) and T6 (NAA 1000 ppm) treatment. Moreover, the minimum survival (36.66 %) of stem cutting of lemon was recorded under the T0 (Control) treatment. The survival percentage is directly associated with the use of root-promoting auxin like IBA and NAA for rooting stem cuttings. Similarly, optimum temperature and high humidity percent also play a vital role in the high accumulation of auxin content in cuttings. These favorable conditions may lead to good photosynthesis to accumulate photosynthates and carbohydrates, resulting significant rate of survival of rooted stem cuttings. Similar results were earlier reported by Saini et al. (2010); Chayanika et al. (2011); Singh et al. (2016); Patel et al. (2018); Ahmad et al. (2018) and Kumar and Singh (2020).\r\n','Prashant Gautam, S.K. Tripathi, Arvind Kumar, Satya Prakash, R.S. Sengar, Manuj Awasthi, Upendra Maurya and Amit Kumar (2022). Effect of different Concentrations of PGRs on Shooting and Survival of Stem Cuttings in Lemon (Citrus limon Burm.) cv. Pant lemon-1, under Western U.P. conditions. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 14(3): 1084-1088.'),(5423,'','','','','',1,'','','','',''),(5424,'','','','','',1,'','','','',''),(5425,'','','','','',1,'','','','',''),(5426,'','','','','',1,'','','','',''),(5427,'','','','','',1,'','','','',''),(5428,'','','','','',1,'','','','',''),(5429,'136','Effect of Integrated Nutrient Management Practices on Quality, Soil Fertility after Harvest, Nutrient content and their uptake of Maize (Zea mays L.) in Maize-clusterbean Cropping Sequence','Desai N.B., Mevada K.D. and Ganvit K.J.','185 Effect of Integrated Nutrient Management Practices on Quality, Soil Fertility after Harvest, Nutrient content and their uptake of Maize _Zea mays L._ in Maize-clusterbean Cropping Sequence Desai NB.pdf','',1,'A field experiment entitled “Effect of integrated nutrient management practices on quality, soil fertility after harvest, nutrient content and their uptake of maize (Zea mays L.) in maize-clusterbean cropping sequence” was conducted at College Agronomy Farm, B. A. College of Agriculture, Anand Agricultural University, Anand, Gujarat during the years 2019-20 and 2020-21. The field experiment consisted of integrated nutrient management treatments viz., 100% RDF, 75% RDF + 25% RDN through FYM, 50% RDF + 50% RDN through FYM, 75% RDF + 25% RDN through vermicompost, 50% RDF + 50% RDN through vermicompost, 100% RDF + NPK Consortium, 75% RDF + 25% RDN through FYM + NPK Consortium, 50% RDF + 50% RDN through FYM + NPK Consortium, 75% RDF + 25% RDN through vermicompost + NPK Consortium, 50% RDF + 50% RDN through vermicompost + NPK Consortium, 50% RDF + 25% RDN through FYM + 25% RDN through vermicompost and 50% RDN through FYM + 50% RDN through vermicompost + NPK Consortium to maize in rabi season and replicated four times in randomized block design. Based on two years of pooled results, the protein content, protein yield, oil content, N content as well as N, P and K uptake by grain and stover of maize was recorded significantly higher values with respect to the treatment T9 (75% RDF + 25% RDN through vermicompost + NPK Consortium) while, P and K content in both grain and stover was found to be non significant. However, the treatment T12 (50% RDN through FYM + 50% RDN through vermicompost + NPK Consortium) recorded lower values with respect to N, P and K content and uptake by both grain and stover. Significantly higher available N and microbial count in the soil after harvest of maize was recorded in the treatment consisting of 50% RDN through FYM + 50% RDN through vermicompost + NPK Consortium (T12) during both the years whereas, INM treatments failed to exert their significant influence on available P2O5 and K2O in the soil after harvest of maize.','Maize, RDF, RDN, FYM, vermicompost, NPK Consortium, content, uptake','Based on two years of pooled results, it can be concluded that maize should be fertilized with 75% RDF + 25% RDN through vermicompost + NPK Consortium for getting higher nutrient uptake, quality of crop and to maintain the chemical and microbial properties of soil in maize-clusterbean cropping sequence.','INTRODUCTION\r\nMaize (Zea mays L.) is one of the most versatile emerging crops having wider adaptability under varied agro-climatic conditions. Globally, maize is known as the “queen of cereals” because it has the highest genetic yield potential among cereals. Maize or corn is the third most important cereal crop after rice and wheat in India. Globally it is highly valued for its multifarious use as food, feed, fodder and raw material for the large number of industrial products. Worldwide it occupies an area of about 184 million ha covering 160 countries providing around 36 percent of the global food grain production. In India maize has emerged as the third most important cereal crop, after rice and wheat, occupying an area of 9.60 million ha with the production of 27.15 million tones, having average productivity of about 2.8 tones/ha whereas, in Gujarat, 0.44 million ha area is covered with a production of 0.68 million tones having productivity of 1659 kg/ha (Anonymous, 2020), which is quite below the national and world average.\r\nNutrient management is an important factor in achieving the potential yield in maize production systems (Singh et al., 2021). Integrated nutrient management includes the intelligent use of organic, inorganic and biological resources to sustain optimum yields, improve or maintain the soil’s physical and chemical properties as well as microbial properties and provide crop nutrition packages that are technically sound, economically attractive, practically feasible and environmentally safe (Tandon, 1995). As a result, the current trend is to investigate the option of supplementing fertilizers with organic manures and biofertilizers. Many nutrients are supplied to plants by vermicompost and FYM like carbon containing-compounds provide food for soil flora and fauna (Mohammadi et al., 2017; Rao et al., 2020). It also increases aeration and promotes healthy root development by providing sufficient pores in the rhizosphere. Biofertilizers are a relatively inexpensive source of nitrogen for crop production and they help to improve soil fertility by accelerating biological nitrogen fixation from the atmosphere, solubilizing insoluble nutrients in the soil, stimulating plant growth and development, maintaining soil reaction and improving the physico chemical properties of the soil and thereby making nutrients easily available to the plants.\r\nMATERIAL AND METHODS\r\nA field experiment was carried out on “Effect of integrated nutrient management practices on quality, soil fertility after harvest, nutrient content and their uptake of maize (Zea mays L.) in maize-clusterbean cropping sequence” at College Agronomy Farm, B. A. College of Agriculture, Anand Agricultural University, Anand, Gujarat during the year 2019-20 and 2020-21. The soil of the experimental field was loamy sand in texture, alkaline in nature (8.19 pH) with low soluble salts (0.17 dS/m) and available nitrogen (177.25 kg/ha), medium in organic carbon (0.29%) and available phosphorus (43.53 kg/ha) and high in available potassium (284.81 kg/ha). Twelve integrated nutrient management treatments comprising of 100% RDF, 75% RDF + 25% RDN through FYM, 50% RDF + 50% RDN through FYM, 75% RDF + 25% RDN through vermicompost, 50% RDF + 50% RDN through vermicompost, 100% RDF + NPK Consortium, 75% RDF + 25% RDN through FYM + NPK Consortium, 50% RDF + 50% RDN through FYM + NPK Consortium, 75% RDF + 25% RDN through vermicompost + NPK Consortium, 50% RDF + 50% RDN through vermicompost + NPK Consortium, 50% RDF + 25% RDN through FYM + 25% RDN through vermicompost and 50% RDN through FYM + 50% RDN through vermicompost + NPK Consortium were studied under Randomized Block Design (RBD). The maize variety GAYMH 3 (Gujarat Anand Yellow Maize Hybrid 3) was taken for the experiment. The recommended dose of nutrients i.e., 150: 60: 00 NPK kg/ha were applied through fertilizers uniformly in the furrows as per the treatments, wherein, 50% of the recommended dose of nitrogen (RDN) and 100% recommended dose of phosphorus were applied as basal, whereas remaining 50% RDN was applied in two equal splits at 30 and 60 DAS. The nitrogen was applied through urea and phosphorus was applied through single super phosphate. Bio-fertilizers (NPK Consortium) treatment was given to the seeds before sowing as per treatment. The maize crop was sown at 60 cm x 20 cm spacing in the experimental plot. The observations on protein content, protein yield, oil content, N, P and K content (%), N, P and K uptake (kg/ha), Available N, P2O5 and K2O (kg/ha), soil microbial count after harvest of maize was recorded. The protein content in the seed was calculated by multiplying the nitrogen content of the seed (%) with the conversion factor of 6.25. The protein yield (kg/ha) was computed from the data of percent protein and seed yield (kg/ha) using following the formula:\r\n The oil content of maize seed was determined by Nuclear Magnetic Resonance (NMR) technique suggested by Tiwari et al. (1974). Plant samples of grains and stover of maize were collected at harvest form each net plot during both the years and were ground in a willey mill to pass through 40 mesh sieve. The ground material was collected in butter paper bags and later used for chemical analysis. Nitrogen, phosphorus and potassium content from grain and stover were estimated using standard procedures given by Jackson (1973). The nutrient uptake kg/ha of the grain and stover of the maize crop was calculated by the following formula:\r\nThe composite soil samples were drawn from 0-22.5 cm depth before starting experimentation while after harvest soil samples were taken separately from each net plot for each crop during both years. The soil samples were dried under shade, ground and then sieved through a 2 mm size sieve. The initial soil samples were analyzed for different physicochemical properties. The soil samples collected after the harvest of maize were used to determine available nitrogen, phosphorus, potassium and microbial count. Available nitrogen was determined by the Alkaline Potassium Permagnate method described by Subbiah and Asija (1956). Available phosphorus is determined by Olsen’s method using 0.5 M NaHCO3 (Olsen et al., 1954). Available potassium is determined by using Neutral Normal Ammonium Acetate (pH 7.0) method described by Jackson (1973) by using Flame Photometer. For microbial count soil samples were analyzed for counting microbial colony forming units by serial dilution techniques.\r\nRESULTS AND DISCUSSION\r\nThe data pertaining to protein content, protein yield and oil content as influenced by different treatments are presented in Table 1. Significantly higher protein content and protein yield were recorded under the treatment T9 (75% RDF + 25% RDN through vermicompost + NPK Consortium) which were comparable with all the treatments, barring treatments T1, T4, T6 and T7. An increase in protein content in seed might be due to the fact that higher nitrogen content in the seed is directly associated with higher availability of nitrogen to plants. Higher nitrogen in seeds is directly responsible for higher protein content because it is a primary component of amino acids which constitute the basis of protein content. The results are in close conformity with those of Mohammadi et al. (2015); Verma and Bindra (2019); Kadhavane et al. (2021). Similarly, significantly higher oil content in the seed of maize was recorded under the same treatment of 75% RDF + 25% RDN through vermicompost + NPK Consortium (T9).\r\nThe data pertaining to content and uptake by grain and stover of maize are presented in Tables 2 and 3. The results revealed that the N content in grain and stover of maize was found to be significant. While, P and K content was found to be nonsignificant during both the years and in pooled analysis but the higher values of N, P and K content were observed in treatment T9 (75% RDF + 25% RDN through vermicompost + NPK Consortium). Similarly, uptake of N, P and K by grain and stover were significantly influenced by various INM treatments and the higher values of all nutrients were found with treatment T9 (75% RDF + 25% RDN through vermicompost + NPK Consortium). Lower values of N, P and K content and uptake of N, P and K by grain and stover were found under the treatment T12 (50% RDN through FYM + 50% RDN through vermicompost + NPK Consortium).\r\nThe results presented in (Tables 2 and 3) were observed that the nutrient content and uptake improved through the integration of biofertilizer, organic and inorganic sources. Among the various INM treatments investigated, treatment T9 (75% RDF + 25% RDN through vermicompost + NPK Consortium) was found to be effective in improving the nutrient content. The higher N, P and K content in grain and stover may be due to the addition of both organic and inorganic sources, which resulted in the formation of clay-humus complexes in the soil, which promotes lower and prolonged availability to the crop. However, common phosphorous application and from organic sources such as vermicompost improved the available N, P2O5 and K2O of the soil and thus, higher availability of nutrients to the plant and enhanced root and early vegetative growth which increases photosynthetic activity in the plant as evident from the improvement of growth attributes recorded higher availability of metabolites from root to shoot and especially in the reproductive structure of maize resulting in higher N, P and K content by crop.\r\nSimilarly, treatment T9 was found to be effective in nutrient uptake as compared to other INM treatments. The uptake of nutrients by the crop is a function of nutrient content and yield/biomass produced. When organic manures are combined with chemical fertilizers, the pattern of nutrient release changes. Normally, they release nutrients at a slower rate at first, but when fertilizers like urea are applied, the C:N ratio decreases resulting in faster mineralization of nutrients from organic manures. Hence, the greater amount of nutrients are available for uptake by the crop. Probably, due better nourishment of crops resulted in higher crop biomass production leading to higher uptake of N, P and K. The results are in close conformity with the findings of Mohammadi et al. (2015); Bharath et al. (2017); Rathod et al. (2019); Subbaiah and Ram (2019); Verma and Bindra (2019); Srinivasulu et al. (2020).\r\nThe data on available soil nutrient status after the harvest of maize as influenced by different INM treatments are presented in Table 4 and revealed that different INM treatments have a significant influence on available soil nutrient status after the harvest of maize in both years. The available nitrogen in soil was significantly influenced by different INM treatments applied to maize and revealed that the application of 50% RDN through FYM + 50% RDN through vermicompost + NPK Consortium (T12) recorded significantly higher values with respect to available nitrogen in soil but it remained statistically at par with treatments T2, T3, T8 and T11 during the year 2019-20 and T2, T3, T7, T8 and T11 during the year 2020-21. The available phosphorous and potassium in the soil after harvest of maize found nonsignificant but numerically higher values of available phosphorous and potassium found with the application of 50% RDN through FYM + 50% RDN through vermicompost + NPK Consortium. Although, lower values were obtained under the treatment T6 (100% RDF + NPK Consortium) during both the years in case of available nitrogen while, in the case of available phosphorous and potassium lower values were obtained with application treatment T1 (100% RDF). From the above results (Table 4), it indicates that the different INM treatments marked their significant influence on available N, P2O5 and K2O status in the soil after the harvest of maize during both the years of experimentation. All treatments of INM were found comparatively good and appreciably improved soil available N, P2O5 and K2O status over its initial status. This might be possible due to the slow release of nutrients through organic sources which could not match the pace of nutrient uptake by the plants so they remained in the soil. Whereas, with the integration of organic sources with inorganic sources along with the NPK consortium would have synchronized demand and supply mechanism which was reflected in higher content and uptake of nutrients from treatments with integrated nutrient management. Use of FYM and vermicompost might have attributed to the mineralization of nitrogen in the soil and high enzyme activities in the soil amended with organic manures might have increased the transformation of nutrients to available form. Role of FYM and vermicompost in releasing nitrogen and improving nitrogen availability in soil. These results are similar to those obtained by Tetarwal et al. (2011); Kalhapure et al. (2013); Rathod et al. (2019).\r\nThe mean data on the microbial count in the soil during the years 2019-20, 2020-21 and on pooled basis as influenced by integrated nutrient management treatments are furnished in Table 5. The result indicated that application of 50% RDN through FYM + 50% RDN through Vermicompost + NPK Consortium (T12) had higher microbial count (93.40 × 107 CFU/g, 94.50 × 107 CFU/g and 93.95 × 107 CFU/g during the years 2019-20, 2020-21 and Pooled analysis, respectively). However, it remained statistically at par with all the treatments except treatments T7, T8 and T10 during both years. While in the case of pooled analysis it remained statistically at par with treatments T10. There might be balanced soil air and moisture conditions (Vapsa conditions) with lowered bulk density enhanced microbial activities were only organic manure (FYM & vermicompost) where added along with NPK consortium forming humus; a basic food material for microbes. In contrast to it, significantly lower microbial count in soil was recorded with the application of 100% RDF (T1). In absence of organic manure, the bulk density of the soil might be increased and there might be a lower pores for favorable microbial activities. This might be the reason for lower microbial content under 100% RDF (T1).\r\n \r\n','Desai N.B., Mevada K.D. and Ganvit K.J. (2022). Effect of Integrated Nutrient Management Practices on Quality, Soil Fertility after Harvest, Nutrient content and their uptake of Maize (Zea mays L.) in Maize-clusterbean Cropping Sequence. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 14(3): 1089-1095.');
INSERT INTO `pdf_upload` VALUES (5430,'136','Study on Physical and Functional Characteristics of Amaranth Fortified Pasta','Priyanka Patel, Deepali Bajpai, Archana Maravi and S.S. Shukla','186 Study on Physical and Functional Characteristics of Amaranth Fortified Pasta Priyanka Patel.pdf','',1,'Amaranth (Family-Amaranthaceae) grain is a highly nutritive and low- gluten pseudo-cereal with a high content of proteins, vitamins and minerals compared to true cereals. Pasta is a cereal-based food product popular in India, due to its ease of cooking and high palatability but low in nutrient content. Amaranth fortified pasta could be a good way for combating nutrient deficient diet and malnutrition. Therefore, the present investigation was carried out to make pasta with the incorporation of amaranth flour (20%, 40%, 60%, 80% and 100%), semolina (10% and 20%) with the replacement of refined wheat flour. In all treatment 1% guar gum powder were added. Bulk density, oil and water absorption capacity of uncooked pasta differed significantly (p<0.05) from 0.73 to 0.83 g/ml, 181.00 to 200.91% and 204.98 to 279.71% respectively. The cooking parameters varied significantly (p<0.05) and therefore the cooking time ranged from 4.07 to 6.73 min. Cooked-weight, rehydration percentage, swelling index and total gruel loss values of pasta varied from 18.70 to 21.05 g, 85.53 to 107.88%, 1.98 to 2.90 and 0.91 to 2.11 respectively.','Amaranth flour, Pasta, Physical properties, Pseudo-cereals, Extruded food','In the present study, popular extruded food pasta was selected and fortified by amaranth flour and semolina. On the basis of obtained results, physical and functional properties of pasta showed significantly decreases with the increasing percentage of amaranth flour. L*value of pasta were found to decreases with the increase in the incorporation of amaranth flour. Overall results suggested that the dark colour intensity increased with the increasing amaranth flour level.Cooking qualities i.e. cooking time, cooked weight and rehydration percentage significantly (p<0.05) decrease with the increasing of amaranth flour while, swelling index and total gruel loss significantly (p<0.05) increased in the pasta sample containing higher concentration of amaranth flour in the formulations. Addition of guar gum powder (1%) to 100 g blends other than control had remarkable effect on pasta quality with regard to cooking properties. The steaming before dehydration revealed observable effect on all cooking quality parameters after rehydration. Ahead steaming treatment improved cooking quality and texture with respect to surface appeal. Therefore, incorporation of amaranth flour, guar gum powder and steaming treatment results enhanced physical, functional and cooling quality characteristics of pasta.','INTRODUCTION\r\nAmaranth (Amaranth cruentus) (Family-Amaranthaceae) is a pseudo-cereal having dual characteristics of a cereal and leguminous seed (Amaya-Furfan et al., 2005; Caselato-sousa and Amaya-Farfan 2012) and generally called as ‘pigweed’ which is small seeded ancient crop that is grown for some 8 thousand years with encouraging economic and nutritional value. Amaranth is known as ‘Ramdana’ or ‘Rajgeera’ which meaning God’s grain and King’s grain respectively. The names indicate the enormous importance and immense value of this grain. It has a high protein (12.5-19%) content with a rich amount of nutritionally critical amino acids such as methionine and lysine (0.73-0.84%) and high vitamin and mineral contents, such as riboflavin, niacin, ascorbic acid, calcium, and magnesium compared to other grains (Becker et al., 1981; Bressani, 1989). Low gluten and high nutrient rich pasta could be a good for combating nutrient deficient diet and useful for malnourished people and also good for celiac disease patient. In health aspects it is useful for the health benefits decreasing plasma cholesterol levels protecting the heart, immunity booster, exerting an anti-cancer activity, reducing blood glucose levels and combat to hypertension and anemia (Verginia et al., 2014). Celiac disease is manifested as an enteropathy of sensitivity to gluten in genetically predisposed individuals. It\'s characterized by constant injuries of intestinal mucosa caused by gluten ingestion and also the mucosa can completely recover thanks to the whole elimination of gluten from the diet (Molberg et al., 2000).\r\nAccording to Mudgil et al. (2014) Guar gum (GG) is obtained from the ground endosperm of seeds from an annual plant commonly called cluster bean (Cyamopsis tetragonolobus L.). It is largely used in the form of guar gum powder as additive in food for food stabilization and as fiber source. It is a natural, water swelling, nontoxic and nonionic polysaccharide. The beneficial effects of guar gum are in the control of many health problems i.e. diabetes, bowel movements health disease and colon cancer.\r\nPasta products that are largely consumed everywhere were traditionally manufactured from Triticum turgidum semolina, known to be the most effective material sui for pasta production (Feillet and Dexter 1996). Utilization of Triticum durum for snack and extruded foods has been well identified by Toepfer et al., (1972). As wheat derived staple food, pasta is second to bread in world consumption. Its worldwide acceptance is attributed thanks to its low cost, easy preparation, versatility, sensory attributes and long time period were studied by Mariani-Constantini (1988).\r\nKays et al. (2006) reported guar seed endosperm could be a source of water-soluble gum which is employed as stabilizer, emulsifier and thickener in various food products and contributes to soluble dietary fiber (SDF) portion of seed total dietary fiber (TDF). TDF and SDF, respectively, made up 52–58% and 26–32% of seed dry weight.\r\nGatade and Sahoo (2015) reported steaming is a key process in the manufacture of instant noodles. For the production of instant noodles, a high degree of starch gelatinization is required. Steaming time is longer for hot-air dried noodles than for deep-fried noodles. Steam induces gelatinization of starch prior to drying which improves the water uptake capacity of noodles.\r\nMakdoud and Rosentrater (2017) studied make gluten free pasta using amaranth, quinoa and rice flours, water and egg. Color analysis, water activity, cooking loss, texture, etc. were determined, the best pasta formulation was 10% amaranth flour, 40% quinoa flour, and 50% rice flour, with 18% eggs whites and 39% water. 80% of consumer acceptability was deducted. \r\nMohammed et al. (2018) developed instant noodles with incorporation of fenugreek leaves puree they find out that when the percentage of fenugreek leaves puree increases the cooking time, cooking losses, bulk density, water absorption capacity and solubility index decreases whereas cooked weight, water uptake and swelling capacity increases. \r\nThe functional properties of raw amaranth flour suggest its feasibility that it can be used as an alternative to other flour-based foods frequently consumed by Indians, which in turn opens up a wide range of opportunities for its usage in the food industry. Instant noodles are one of breakfast and staple cuisine of East Asian countries, whose consumption is steadily increasing day by day throughout the world. Noodles, being a poor source of proteins due to use of refined flour in its development. Therefore, now it is required to fortify noodles with protein and fiber rich substances which may improve not only nutritional value but also functional characteristics (Pakhare et al., 2018). So, by keeping these points in view a study was carried out with an objective to optimize the process for development of amaranth flour fortified pasta and to assess the physical and functional characteristics. \r\nMATERIALS AND METHODS\r\nThe present study was carried out in the Department of Food Science and Technology, College of Agriculture, Jawaharlal Nehru Krishi Vishwa Vidyalaya, Jabalpur, during the year 2020-2021. The numerous experimental approaches, materials, and methodologies utilized in the production of pasta by incorporating of amaranth flour, as well as the quality assessment of the finished product.\r\nA. Procurement and preparation of raw materials\r\nAmaranth grains, refined wheat flour, semolina, edible oil and salt were procured from local market, Jabalpur, Madhya Pradesh (482004). Guar gum powder was purchased from online shopping app. Amaranth grains were cleaned and milled into flour using a flour machine for preparation of Amaranth flour.\r\nB. Formulation of composite flour\r\nTotal 12 types of flour were prepared by incorporating refined wheat flour (RWF), amaranth flour (AF) and semolina (S). Refined wheat flour and amaranth flour were blended in various proportions; semolina was used to replace 10% and 20% of the amaranth flour and refined wheat flour mixtures (blends). These formulations are as RWF:AF:S-100:0:0(Control), RWF:AF:S-80:20:10(T1), RWF:AF:S-80:20:20(T2), RWF:AF:S-60:40:10(T3), RWF:AF:S-60:40:20(T4), RWF:AF:S-40:60:10(T5), RWF:AF:S-40:60:20(T6), RWF:AF:S-20:80:10(T7), RWF:AF:S-20:80:20(T8), RWF:AF:S-0:100:10(T9), RWF:AF:S-0:100:20(T10), RWF:AF:S-0:100:0(T11).Other ingredients were used in treatments- Guar gum (1%), Salt (1.5%), Oil (2%), Water as required.\r\nC. Development of product\r\nThe flour was placed into the pasta making machine\'s (model No. KK-P-15) feeder and mixed for around 5-10 minutes. After that, the appropriate amount of water was added to the pasta extruder\'s mixing chamber, and the mixture were kneaded for around 10-15 minutes to evenly distribute water throughout the composite flour particles. The amount of water utilized in the formulations ranged from 28 to 30%. The moist flour aggregate was extruded at room temperature using round die no. 37 by a power operated single screw cold extruder (pasta making machine) and cut into short pasta lengths. Freshly extruded pasta was steamed for 10 minutes in boiling water (102-105°C). The steaming process was done with a household steamer. The steamed pasta was allowed to cool to room temperature (25 + 30°C) before being dried for 3 h in a dryer at 65-70°C. The similar procedure was followed by Shobha et al. (2015) who prepared maize based composite flour noodles. The process of amaranth flour fortified pasta preparation is shown in the flow chart given in Fig. 1 and ready to cook pasta is shown in Fig. 2.\r\nD. Physical and functional properties\r\n(i) Bulk density of raw materials and products: The bulk density of samples was calculated by the method of Okaka and Potter, (1977). 50 g sample was weighed accurately and transferred to 100 ml graduated measuring cylinders. Sample was tapped 20 to 30 times, until no noticeable change in volume. The bulk density was determined as weight per unit bulk volume of the sample (g/ml). It was calculated by using equation mentioned. \r\nBulk Density (g/ml) = [Weight of sample (g) / Volume of sample (ml)]\r\n(ii) Oil absorption capacity of raw materials and products: The oil absorption capacity was determined by following method of Sosulski et al. (1976). (1.0g) sample was directly weighed into 15 ml graduated centrifuge tube and 10ml refined soybean oil was added to it and kept at ambient temperature for 30 min and centrifuged for 25 min at 3200 rpm. Excess oil was decanted and each sample was allowed to drain by inverting the tube over absorbent paper. Oil absorption capacity was expressed as percent oil bound per gram of the sample. \r\n(iii) Water absorption capacity of raw materials and products: The water absorption capacity was determined by the centrifugation method of Sosulski et al. (1976). 1.0g sample was weighed and then, taken to it in 15ml centrifuge tube and 10 ml distilled water was added to it. The sample was shaken for 60 min. and centrifuged at 5000rpm for 30 min. Excess water was decanted and each sample was allowed to drain by inverting the tube over absorbent paper. Water absorption capacity was expressed as percent water bound per gram of the sample. This process was done in triplicate. \r\n(iv) Hunter colour measurement of products: The colour scanning machine (Model: Colour Flex EZ)) was used for measurement of colour of pasta samples. The colour was measured by using CIELAB (1976/D65) scale at 10 observers at D65 illuminate. The instrument was calibrated before placing black tile and white tile provided with the instrument. Once the instrument was standardized. It was ready to measure the colour of pasta. It can also be crosschecked by placing the white tile, which were provide for the L, a, b, C and H Values. The pasta sample was placed in sample cup. The deviation of the colour of the sample to standard was also observed and recorded in the computer interface. It provides readings in terms of lightness (L*-value), redness (a*-value) and yellowness (b*-value) of sample. L* is a measure of the brightness from black (0) to white (100). Parameter a* describes red green colour with positive a* values indicating redness and negative a* values indicating greenness. Parameter b* describes yellow-blue colour with positive b* values indicating yellowness and negative b*- values indicating blueness. \r\nE. Cooking characteristics of cooked pasta\r\n(i) Optimum cooking time: Cooking time was determined by the method of AACC, (2000). 10 g pasta sample was weighed accurately and cooked into boiling distilled water (250ml) without addition of salt, which was kept at a rolling boil. Starting at 4 min mark, a sample was removed in every 30 sec intervals. It was placed between two glass plates and the cooking time of pasta was assessed as the time required for disappearance of the dry central core when gently squeezed between two glass plates, indicating penetration of water in the core of pasta.\r\n(ii) Cooking loss or total solid/gruel loss: 250 ml water was taken in the beaker and heated over hot -plate or any sui burner till water boils. 25 g dry pasta was added and stirring thoroughly with glass rod. Cook for 10 min with occasional stirring. After cooking, allow the sample to drain for 5 min. The volume of total gruel was measured in which 20 ml of the gruel was pipette out, after stirring well to given an even distribution of the solid content and put into tared petri-dish. Petri-dish was transferred to a hot air oven to maintain at 105 + 2°C and dried to constant mass. Cooking loss was expressed as g/100 g. Cooking loss was carried out in triplicates. Total gruel loss was calculated by following formula as per the method of (ISI 1993):\r\n \r\nWhere,\r\nM1 = mass of empty petri dish (g)\r\nM2 = mass of petri dish with total solids (g)\r\nV = vol of gruel (ml)\r\n(iii) Percent rehydration: Percent rehydration was calculated by the method Hormdok and Noomhorm (2007). For determination of percent rehydration, pasta sample were cooked 1 min more than their respective cooking time. The cooked pasta was then washed with water and drained for 2 min. Weight was taken to calculate percent rehydration. Percent rehydration was calculated by the following formula:\r\n(iv) Cooked weight: Cooked weight was defined as the weight gain of the pasta during cooking and indicated the amount of water that was absorbed and was therefore an index for the swelling ability of the pasta. Instant pasta 10 g was cooked in 300 ml of distilled water in a beaker till completion of rehydration duration procedure as described by the Kamble et al. (2018). The pasta was taken out and left to cool for 5 min at room temperature. The cooled cooked pasta was then reweighed. The cooked weighed was expressed in grams.\r\n(v) Swelling index: The swelling index (SI) of cooked pasta was determined according to the procedure described by Cleary and Brennan (2006). 10 g of raw pasta was cooked in a glass beaker with 20 times its quantity of boiling distilled water for 10 min over a water bath maintained at 100°C. After cooking process, the water was strained out and the cooked pasta was dried to remove surface moisture by filter paper. The SI was expressed as follows: \r\nF. Statistical analysis\r\nThe independent observations of each sample for various analysis were taken and mean of these observations was used for statistically analysis. The data obtained was subjected to analysis of variance (ANOVA) using complete randomized design. Statistical analysis was performed with the help of OPSTAT software version OPSTAT 1.exe (Hisar, India). The critical difference at p<0.05 was estimated. The skeleton of analysis of variance (ANOVA) for completely randomized design is indicated in Table 1. \r\nRESULTS AND DISCUSSION\r\nA. Physical and functional properties of raw materials and pasta products\r\n(i) Bulk density: The data presented in Table 2 and 3 showed that bulk density of amaranth flour, refined wheat flour and semolina was 0.61 g/ml, 0.64 g/ml and 0.79 g/ml respectively. Similarly, the bulk density for pasta was highest in control (0.83g/ml) and lowest in T11 (0.73g/ml). Bulk density is a good attribute for determining the mixing quality of particulate matter and helps in indicating the relative amount of material handling attributes (Dhankhar et al., 2019). The present study was observed that bulk density showed significantly decrease from control to T11 with an increase in amaranth flour. A similar result has been reported by Mohammed et al. (2018); Singh et al., (2018); in their studies on studies on functional and textural quality of noodles incorporated with fenugreek leaves and optimization of a process for cocoa-based vermicelli, respectively. \r\n(ii) Oil absorption capacity: Oil absorption capacity (OAC) is influenced by the interactions between the non-polar amino acids side chains and hydrocarbon chains of lipid that also determine mouth feel and flavor retention of products. OAC of raw materials and pasta were observed and the values as depicted in Table 2 and 3. Flour of amaranth showed lesser oil absorption capacity (201.57%) as compared to refined wheat flour (205.83%) whereas in treatment combination the highest values obtained were of control (200.92%) and lowest value of T11 (181.00%). which contained 100% AF. Oil Absorption Capacity (OAC) increases the palatability of foods and critical assessment of flavor retention (Kinsella, 1976). The OAC is the ability of the product mix protein to absorb and retain oil, which in terms influence the texture and mouth feel of food products. Similar trend was observed on oil absorption capacity. OAC decreased significantly from control to T11with the increase of amaranth flour and semolina (Table 2 and 3). The increase in amaranth flour were statistically significant (p<0.05). The results could be supported by various workers for different food other than amaranth flour (Siddiq et al., 2010). \r\n(iii) Water absorption capacity: Studies on water absorption capacity of protein aceous material over a range of conditions are useful in assessing potential food application of new proteins. The water absorption capacity of different proteins may be determined to facilitate adjustments in food formulations in interchanging protein sources. The water absorption capacity was determined in flour and treatment combinations and the mean values are reported in Table 2 and 3. The water absorption capacity was found to be minimum in semolina (211.53%) whereas, the Amaranth flour was 215.44 and 238.92 in refined wheat flour. The Table 3 clearly indicates that only refined wheat flour pasta showed the highest (279.71%) and over other. Water absorption capacity of refined wheat flour is greater than amaranth flour and semolina (Table 2). Water absorption capacity is the ability of the product to associate with water under a condition where water is limiting, which is mainly dependent on proteins at room temperature (Otegbayo et al., 2013). Gradual and progressive decrease in water absorption capacity was observed under all the treatments as compare to control (Table 3). It may be due to increase in amaranth flour percentage. Low water absorption capacity influenced the properties of extruded food. Table 2 and 3 reveled 215.44% water absorption capacity in amaranth flour and ranges from 268.35 to 204.98 in treatments which is quite close to value quoted by Agrawal et al. (2013) in unmalted millets 135 to 210 ml/100g, Shevkani et al. (2014) i.e. 209-243 % whereas Tripathi et al. (2019) found 134 percent water absorption capacity.\r\n(iv) Hunter Colour analysis of uncooked pasta: As shown (Table 4), colour values of amaranth flour fortified pasta were varied. The range of L* values in which Control (56.39) showed maximum lightness and T11 (44.43) showed lowest lightness on the basis of different percentage of amaranth flour. In the case that a* values, highest value was obtained by Control (7.91) and lowest value was found by T11 (3.52). The b* values of various treatments control (23.48) had the highest values and T11 showed lowest value (11.50). Data depicted in Table 4 the hunter colour L*(Lightness), a*(Redness), b*(Yellowness) values of pasta samples varied from 44.43-56.39, 3.52-7.91, 11.50-23.48 respectively. Increase in amaranth flour level from 20 to 100 % led to decrease the lightness as well as increase the darkness of the product but L* values imultaneously little bit increases between treatments from T1 to T10 because of replacement of 10 and 20 % semolina. Pasta made from amaranth flour was darker than those made from durum wheat semolina. Overall results suggested that the dark colour intensity increased with the increasing amaranth flour level. The results were supported by Martinez et al. (2014), they reported that effect of amaranth flour on the L*, a* and b* value and sensory quality of bread wheat pasta whereas Bobade and Sharma (2017) found less b*value in honey-brown rice extrudate. The results are in accordance with Kaur et al. (2012). They reported that increase in bran level from 5 to 25 per cent led to a significant increase in the darkness of the product. Overall results indicated that the red colour intensity significantly increased with increasing bran level in flour. Gajula et al. (2008) reported that the barley bran had a reddish brown colour, thus higher levels of barley bran substitution led to darker products followed by products prepared with wheat, rice and oat bran.\r\nB. Cooking quality of cooked pasta\r\nThe data related to cooking quality parameters in term of cooking time, cooked weight, total solid loss, rehydration % and swelling index for the samples analyzed are shown in Table 5. \r\n(i) Cooking time: This is the optimum time which is taken by the pasta to cook and to become completely soft. The optimum cooking time of different blends was ranged from 6.73 to 4.07 min, showing significantly (p<0.05) high cooking time was noticed control (6.73 min) and lowest cooking time in T11 (4.07 min). This shows that the cooking is decreasing with increase by the incorporation of amaranth flour. This difference was observed due to varying combinations as shown in Table 5. The time needed to boil the pasta to the just fully cooked state is also known as cooking time. The differences in cooking time could be attributed to the difference in the gelatinization temperature of respective blend of starches (Benhur et al., 2015). Addition of guar gum powder reduced cooking time. The Cooking time of pasta was ranged from 6.73 to 4.07 min. The control pasta was taken maximum time (6.73 min.). This could be due to the high starch content and lower gelatinization thus achieved. The similar results were found in close agreement of Gatade and Sahoo (2015).\r\n(ii) Total gruel loss: cooking loss indicates the ability of the pasta to maintain structural integrity during the cooking process. The minimum cooking loss were recorded in control (0.91%) followed by T1, T2, T3, T4, T5, T6, T7, T8, T9, T10, T11 and they were on par with each other as shown in Table 5. Cooking loss values increased significantly as the amount of amaranth flour increased in the combinations. The total gruel loss or cooking loss is the amount of solid loss in the cooking water, it is due to high solubility of starch. it shows the ability of pasta to resist structural breakdown during cooking. Higher cooking loss (2.11%) in blended pasta as compare to control (0.91%) this is 41%, has been due to structural discontinuity of the protein network as with the addition of other flour (Ahmed et al., 2015). The gruel loss of pasta was increased due to addition of amaranth flour. Additions of high-fiber materials with WF affect negatively the quality of pasta products, including higher cooking loss (Martinez et al., 2009). Slightly higher values were found and these findings were coincided by the findings of Ahmed et al. (2015). who were assessed for suitability in noodles blending wheat flour and broken rice flour at various levels.\r\n(iii) Cooked weight: As per Table 5, maximum cooked weight of pasta was observed in control (21.05g) and lowest value was recorded in T11 (18.70g). The Cooked weight is the amount of weight it has after it has been cooked. The increased water absorption capacity is also an indicator for the increased cooked weight of the food samples (Ahmed et al., 2015). According to Yadav et al. (2014); Manthey et al. (2004), the higher the concentration of protein content in the product, the lower the starch would be able to absorb water, thus the cooked weight of the product decreases. The cooked weight of pasta decreased significantly with an increase in the amaranth flour incorporation (21.05 to 18.70), which has low water absorption capacity. The similar results were reported in close agreement of Kamble et al. (2018).\r\n(iv) Rehydration percentage: This shows the ratio of weight of cooked pasta to the weight of uncooked pasta and may affect the eating quality of pasta. The maximum rehydration percentage was found in control (107.88%) and minimum value of this was recorded in T11 (85.53%) as shown in Table 5. This is the ratio of weight of cooked pasta to the weight of uncooked pasta. This ratio affects the cooking qualities and texture of noodles. Present results are amaranth base pasta with the result 107.88 to 85.53% are similar to Yadav et al. (2014).\r\n(v) Swelling index: It is indicated the ability to absorb water by the starch and protein during cooking that is utilized for the starch gelatinization and protein hydration. The maximum and minimum value of swelling index was recorded in T11(2.90) and control (1.98), respectively and they were on a par with each other as shown in Table 5. It is indicated the ability to absorb water by the pasta during cooking and increase in size. The results were coincided by the findings of Kamble et al., 2018 where they prepared instant noodles incorporating moringa leaf powder with defatted soybean flour. Little higher values were found due to addition of guar-gum powder in which developed pasta had higher values of swelling index in comparison to control. ','Priyanka Patel, Deepali Bajpai, Archana Maravi and S.S. Shukla (2022). Study on Physical and Functional Characteristics of Amaranth Fortified Pasta. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 14(3): 1096-1104.'),(5431,'136','Growth and Yield of Paddy (Oryza sativa L.) in Coastal Acid Soil of Karnataka as Influenced by Integrated Nutrient Management Practices','Dileep R., Jayaprakash R., Dhananjaya B.C., Chethan Babu R.T., Vinay Kumar M. and Akshay Kumar Kurdekar','187 Growth and Yield of Paddy _Oryza sativa L._ in Coastal Acid Soil of Karnataka as Influenced by Integrated Nutrient Management Practices DILEEP R.pdf','',1,'A field experiment was conducted during Kharif 2019 at ZAHRS, Brahmavar, Udupi to know the effect of integrated nutrient management practices on growth and yield of paddy. The experiment was laid out in RCBD design with 11 treatments and was replicated thrice. The treatment comprised of RDF and absolute control for comparison along with supplemental addition of 50 and 25 per cent of recommended dose of nitrogen (RDN) through poultry manure, vermicompost, FYM, gliricidia and eupatorium. Application of 50 per cent RDN through fertilizer and 50 per cent RDN through poultry manure recorded significantly higher plant height (104.27 cm), number of tillers per hill(23.73),total dry matter (77.18 g plant-1), productive tillers (19.58), number of panicles per hill (21.59), panicle weight (4.16 g), panicle length (23.35 cm), number of grains per panicle (123), grain (5006 kg ha-1) and straw (6534 kg ha-1) yield of paddy as compared to RDF.','Acid soil, nutrient management, paddy, poultry manure and vermicompost','For successful adoption of any technology or invention in agriculture, it should be economically feasible, technically utilizable and socially acceptable. More supply of nutrients through chemical fertilizers as a results reduction in total factor productivity or only supply of organic manures cannot meet the nutrient requirement and causes sudden yield loss. So, an integrated approach that recognizes soil as the storehouse of most of the plant nutrients essential for plant growth and that how nutrients are managed will have a major impact on plant growth, soil fertility, and agriculture sustainability. ','INTRODUCTION\r\nPaddy (Oryza sativa L.) being the principal food crop to the billions of people around the World and India, occupies a pride place among the food crops cultivated in the World. Paddy plays a key role in food security and it is means of livelihood for millions of people making a slogan “Rice is life” most appropriate.In India, it is grown in an area of 43.78 million hectare with a production and productivity of 225.51 million tonnes 5150 kg ha-1, respectively (Anon., 2019). In Karnataka, rice is cultivated in an area about 10.34 lakh hectare with a production of 28.74 lakh tonnes and productivity of 2924 kg ha-1 (Anon., 2017). Paddy is the prime crop in the coastal zone of Karnataka during Kharif. \r\nFertilizers play vital role in crop production and productivity but continuous indiscriminate use of chemical fertilizers, which badly influences on production potential and soil health. The negligence shown towards the conservation and use of organic sources of nutrients has not only caused the exhaustion of soil nutrient reserves but also resulted in an imbalance among the available nutrients leading to soil problems. Integrated nutrient management (INM) with FYM, vermicompost, poultry manure, green manures and biofertilizers along with chemical fertilizers are the alternative to restore the soil health and productivity. Integrated nutrient management is a flexible approach to reduce the use of chemical sources of nutrients along with maximization of their use efficiency and farmer’s profit. INM is a strategy for judicious and balanced use of plant nutrients for sustainable crop production under varied agroclimatic conditions. Results from on farm and farmer’s fields of India reveal the imperative need to use organic manures, biofertilizers and lime in acid soils in conjunction with chemical fertilizers for better soil health and higher crop production as against the use of chemical fertilizers alone (Sarkar et al., 2020). In acidic soils, lower availability of nutrients (N, P, K, Ca, Mg and S), higher nutrient losses due to leaching, volatilization and runoff has further aggravated the problem of nutrient management in rainfed paddy.\r\nKeeping in view the situation of the coastal zone of Karnataka, it is necessary to make use of the balanced supply of plant nutrients as a pre-requisite for successful agriculture. This can be achieved through integrated nutrient management for achieving sustainable yields and to maintain good soil physical environment to provide the required quantity of nutrients. Based on the availability of organic and green manures at the farmer’s level, an experiment entitled growth and yield of paddy (Oryza sativa L.) in coastal acid soil of Karnataka as influenced by integrated nutrient management practices was conducted at ZAHRS, Brahmavar, Udupi.\r\nMATERIAL AND METHODS\r\nA field experiment was conducted at Zonal Agricultural and Horticultural Research Station (ZAHRS), Brahmavar, Udupi district, Karnataka. The experimental site is situated between 13°25N latitude and 74°45E longitude with an altitude of 10 meters above mean sea level. It comes under the coastal zone (agro-climatic zone 10) of Karnataka. The soil of the experimental site belongs to the sandy loam texture. \r\nField experiment was laid out in Randomized Complete Block Design (RCBD) with 11 treatments and three replications. Treatments consisting of different combinations of organic and inorganic nutrient sources viz., T1- Absolute control, T2–Recommended dose of fertilizer (60:30:45 kg N:P2O5:K2O ha-1), T3 - 50 per cent recommended dose of nitrogen(RDN) through fertilizer + 50 per cent RDN through FYM, T4- 50 per cent RDN through fertilizer + 25 per cent RDN through FYM + 25 per cent RDN through poultry manure, T5- 50 per cent RDN through fertilizer + 25 per cent RDN through FYM + 25 per cent RDN through vermicompost, T6- 50 per cent RDN through fertilizer + 25 per cent RDN through FYM + 25 per cent RDN through gliricidia, T7- 50 per cent RDN through fertilizer + 25 per cent RDN through FYM + 25 per cent RDN through eupatorium, T8- 50 per cent RDN through fertilizer + 50 per cent RDN through poultry manure, T9- 50 per cent RDN through fertilizer + 50 per cent RDN through vermicompost, T10- 50 per cent RDN through fertilizer + 50 per cent RDN through gliricidia, T11- 50 per cent RDN through fertilizer + 50 per cent RDN through eupatorium.\r\nThe land was prepared by disc ploughing once followed by passing cultivator twice and harrowing to bring the soil to a fine tilth. The land was puddled twice then demarked with bunds to prepare the required plot size and laid out as per the plan. Full dose of farmyard manure, vermicompost, poultry manure, gliricidia, eupatorium applied and incorporated into fields two weeks before planting of paddy. Rock phosphate was applied as basal dressing.19days old seedlings were planted @ 2-3 seedlings hill-1 with a spacing of 20 cm × 10 cm. Nitrogen and muriate of potash were given in three split doses-first dose was given at the time of field preparation, second after one month of transplanting and third during the panicle initiation stage. Liquid plant growth promoting rhizomicrobial consortia is common for all treatment. Five hills were selected randomly from the net plot and labelled for recording the observations in each treatment. The growth and yield parameters were recorded at 30, 60 and 90 days after planting and at harvest. All the biometric observations are recorded were subjected to analysis. \r\nRESULTS AND DISCUSSION\r\nGrowth parameters: Crop growth is dependent not only on the amount of nutrients present in the soil but also on their availability in accordance with the pattern of crop growth. The sunlight, nutrients and moisture influence growth parameters such as plant height, number of tillers and dry matter production. \r\nSignificantly higher plant height was observed at 30, 60, 90 DAT and harvest with a combined application of 50 per cent RDN through fertilizer + 50 per cent RDN through poultry manure (33.72, 78.16, 103.42 and 104.27 cm, respectively) are described in Table 1. However, remaining treatments were recorded higher plant height as compared to the absolute control treatment. Poultry manure contains higher amounts of nitrogen and phosphorus compared to other organic manures. Phosphorus is a constituent of nucleic acid, phytin and phospholipids. The beneficial influence of phosphorus in early stages of crop growth may be explained by early stimulation of root system through efficient translocation to the root of certain growth stimulation compounds formed on account of protoplasmic activity in phosphorus fed plants (Sago and Kobayashi 2007).\r\nSignificantly number of tillers per hill was observed at 60, 90 DAT and harvest with treatment with the use of 50 per cent RDN through fertilizer + 50 per cent RDN through vermicompost (20.07, 23.73 and 21.19, respectively). The combined effect of the recommended dose of fertilizer and vermicompost has resulted in increased absorption of nutrients resulting in the rapid conversion of synthesized photosynthetic products into protein to form more protoplasm, thereby increasing the number and size of the cell and thus contribute to better growth of plants. It also contains significant amounts of micronutrients and regulates the accessibility of metallic micronutrients to plants and enhances plant growth by providing nutrients in an accessible and crop-based form (Ananda et al., 2006; Siddaram, 2009; Nagaraj et al., 2018).\r\nAt 30DAT the combined application of 50 per cent RDN through fertilizer + 50 per cent RDN through vermicompost reported significantly higher total dry matter production (3.41 g hill-1) are described in Table 1. Combined application of 50 per cent RDN through fertilizer + 50 per cent RDN through poultry manure treatment produced largely higher total dry matter during 60 DAT, 90 DAT and at harvest (26.50, 58.29 and 77.18 g hill-1, respectively). The higher dry matter observed when applying poultry manure might be ascribed partly to its ability to release N synchronously with the demand for rice (Arunkumar et al., 2017; Ofori et al., 2005).\r\nYield parameters: Yield was governed by number of factors which had direct or indirect impacts. The improvement in yield was achieved through improvement in yield parameters characters viz., numbers of panicles per hill, number of productive tillers per hill, panicle length, panicle weight, total number of grains per panicle and test weight are described in Table 2.\r\nIn the present investigation, application of 50 per cent RDN through fertilizer + 50 per cent RDN through poultry manure treatment increased the yield attributing characters. Significantly higher numbers of panicles per hill (21.59), number of productive tillers per hill (19.58), panicle length (23.35 cm), panicle weight (4.16 g), total number of grains per panicle (123), were recorded in 50 per cent RDN through fertilizer + 50 per cent RDN through poultry manure treatment. Better nitrogen status of the plant at the panicle growth period consequent to increasing availability of nitrogen to rice crop maintained a complimentary source-sink relationship. Because increasing nitrogen fertilization improved growth, photosynthesis and other plant growth and yield components. The results are supported by the findings of Rajendran and Veeraputhiran (1999). Combined application of organic manure with recommended nutrient dosage showed significant improvement in various yield attributes resulting in better yield. Improvement in soil microbial activity leads to sympathetic physico-chemical properties that enhance the availability and absorption of nitrogen, resulting in a positive conversion of the source to sink accompanied by higher panicle length, panicle weight and test weight of rice (Mamta et al., 2013). The increase in components of grain yield could be since more nutrient availability would have improved the absorption of nitrogen and other macro and micro-elements as well as increased the production and translocation of the dry matter content from source to sink. Arunkumar et al. (2019); Ebaid and EL-Refaee (2007) also reported similar results. Better nutrition at the grain filling period due to integrated fertilizer management led to higher filled grains per panicle. The test weight was not affected significantly by the various INM practices. Yet it ranged from 20.51 g in control to 25.23 g in 50 per cent RDN through fertilizer + 50 per cent RDN through poultry manure treatments applied. \r\nDue to increase in yield attributing characters, which finally increased the grain yield (5006 kg ha-1) and straw yield (6534 kg ha-1). The higher per cent increase in grain yield (10.48 %) was noticed in T8 when compared to T2 (RDF) (Fig. 1). The increase in biomass yield reflects the better growth and development of the plants due to balanced and more availability of nutrients which was associated with increased root growth due to which the plants explore more soil nutrients and moisture throughout the growing period. The increased yield was due to the uptake of nutrients in paddy and the application of poultry manure reduced the dosage of NPK (Manivannan and Sriramachandrasekharan 2016). This may indicate that organic manures reduces the loss of nutrients through leaching from the soil. The increase in growth and yield due to the application of fertilizer with organic manures (Jeyabal and Kuppuswamy 2001).\r\n','Dileep R., Jayaprakash R., Dhananjaya B.C., Chethan Babu R.T., Vinay Kumar M., Akshay Kumar Kurdekar (2022). Growth and Yield of Paddy (Oryza sativa L.) in Coastal Acid Soil of Karnataka as Influenced by Integrated Nutrient Management Practices. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 14(3): 1105-1109.'),(5432,'136','Awareness of the Vegetable Growers on Market-led Extension System in Odisha','Jeebanjyoti Behera, Sarbani Das, Bibhuti Prasad Mohapatra, Abhiram Dash and Ashish Anand','188 Awareness of the Vegetable Growers on Market-led Extension System in Odisha Jeebanjyoti Behera.pdf','',1,'Vegetable marketing is crucial, especially in light of the new liberalisation process and the agricultural sector\'s value-adding requirements. The existing marketing system must be updated by improving skills, knowledge, attitude, and so on. Most farmers are not aware of the new marketing system, i.e., the market-led extension system. So, the present study was conducted to analyze the awareness level of vegetable growers on market-led extension practices. An ex-post-facto research design was used for the study. The present study was conducted in Cuttack and Puri districts of Odisha state. A total of 240 respondents (15 vegetable growers from each village) were sampled for the completion of this study via a personal interview method at the vegetable growers\' doorstep using a pre-list structured interview schedule. The results show that the majority of the respondents (69.17 %) had a medium level of awareness, followed by a high (16.67%) and a lower (14.16%) level of awareness of the market-led Extension System. There is a need to provide information and education related to different aspects of the marketing of vegetables through different extension functionaries at different market channels. Action could be taken by government authorities to develop awareness of the respondents to make the market-led extension system effective.','Awareness, Diversification, Information, Market-led, Vegetable Growers','Present study focused on assessing the awareness level of vegetable growers on market-led Extension System. It was found that the majority of the sampled vegetable growers had a medium level of awareness as most of the respondents had partial awareness towards components of the market-led Extension System. So, there is a need to provide information and education related to different aspects of the marketing of vegetables through different extension functionaries at different market channels. Action could be taken by government authorities to develop awareness of the respondents to make the market-led extension system effective.','INTRODUCTION\r\nOdisha is well-known for its vegetable production. The state provides a favourable environment for the production of vegetables under both rainfed and irrigated conditions (Das, 2006). Vegetables are perishable commodities with a limited shelf life, necessitating specialised marketing because they are a time-sensitive activity. Thus, the marketing of vegetables is subject to price fluctuations, which the middleman takes advantage of. Aside from that, there has always been a debate about paying farmers a fair wage while keeping prices low for consumers. This focuses on marketing with the goal of reducing price strategies between primary producers and ultimate consumers (Dastagiri et al., 2013).\r\nVegetable marketing is crucial, especially in light of the new liberalisation process and the agricultural sector\'s value addition requirements. The existing marketing system must be updated by improving skills, knowledge, attitude, and so on (Gayathri et al., 2020). One of the reasons for low agricultural returns is the traditional method of marketing through middlemen, as well as a lack of awareness about new developments in vegetable marketing. Other reasons include unscientific and insufficient crop planning, crop husbandry, post-harvest management, and a lack of alternative marketing channels (Roy et al., 2013). Adequate knowledge of production and marketing aspects is critical for vegetable growers to improve their competitiveness. Vegetable growers must be empowered in order to respond positively to changes in the food market in terms of production system diversification, increased farm productivity, improved product quality and standards, and the realisation of value-added opportunities. Agricultural marketing reforms are underway. With the globalisation of the market, farmers need to transform themselves from mere producers-sellers in the domestic market to producers cum sellers in a wider market sense to best realise the returns on their investments, risks, and efforts (Kumar et al., 2011). The focus of the extension functionaries needs to be extended beyond production. Farmers should be sensitised to various aspects of quality, consumer preference, market intelligence, processing, value addition, and other marketing information (Singh, 2012; Thakur, 2017). This will help the farming community realise high returns for the produce, minimise the production costs, and improve the product\'s value and marketability. Direct marketing, contract farming, the establishment of farmer/consumer markets, private markets, futures and forward trade, and other provisions are included in agricultural marketing reforms. In this context, a new concept has emerged considering the above reforms. i.e., market-led extension (Nedumaran et al., 2020). Market-led extension can be defined as a tool for the effective delivery of adequate and quality information to farmers for an effective decision on production and marketing issues so as to realise an optimum return for their investment without jeopardising the needs of the future generation (Shitu et al., 2013).\r\nVegetable growers are not benefiting from the changing scenario due to a lack of awareness about the developments and the means to benefit from them. Knowledge of market-led extension is essential for vegetable growers to make informed decisions about what to grow, when to harvest, which markets to send produce to, and whether or not to store it (Ferris et al., 2014). Thus, the need of the hour is to address the aforementioned issues in the vegetable marketing sector in order to increase competitiveness and raise awareness among farmers in order to make them more responsive to market demands. Proper planning for capacity building of farmers on various aspects of vegetable marketing requires knowing the farmers\' current level of awareness and assessing their need for training programmes. Against this backdrop, the current study aims to investigate the level of awareness of the vegetable growers on market-led extension system in Odisha. \r\nMATERIALS AND METHOD\r\nThe current study was conducted purposively in the state of Odisha. An ex-post-facto research design was used for the study. Following the Cumulative Square Root Frequency Method, all 30 districts in Odisha with vegetable production data were classified as Higher Production Potential Districts (HPPD) and Lower Production Potential Districts (LPPD). Cuttack was chosen at random from the Higher Production Potential Districts (HPPD) and Puri from the Lower Production Potential Districts (LPPD), and two blocks from each district were chosen at random for the study. Furthermore, two Gram Panchayats were chosen at random from each block. Two villages from each Gram Panchayat were considered the basic unit of this study, making a total village into 16. For the current study, respondents with at least 5 years of experience growing vegetables on a land of 2 acres or more in a year were chosen. A total of 240 respondents (15 vegetable growers from each village) were sampled for the completion of this study via a personal interview method at the vegetable growers\' doorstep using a pre-list structured interview schedule. Twelve parameters have been taken to measure the awareness level of the respondents by following the methodology of Thakur (2019) with modification. Respondents were asked to give their response to each of the 12 parameters on a three-point continuum scale, viz., fully aware, partially aware, and not aware, with a scale value of 2, 1, and 0 respectively.\r\nRESULTS AND DISCUSSION\r\nResults portrayed in Table 1 show the awareness of respondents regarding different components of the market-led extension system. The results clearly showed that the majority of Cuttack district respondents (53.33%) were fully aware of \"Effective Farm Operation Decisions,\" whereas the majority of Puri district respondents (64.67%) were only partially aware of the same component. These findings shed light on the primary decision-making factors influencing food loss in the field, such as whether growers have a buyer in mind, the quality of the produce, the available price, the financial risk of product rejection, and the priority of another field maturing and ready to harvest. The findings are similar to the findings reported by Johnson et al. (2019). The majority of the vegetable growers (46.67%) of Cuttack District have partial awareness regarding \"Optimum return for Farm Investment\", but in Puri District, the majority of the respondents, i.e., 50 per cent, did not have any awareness about the same. This reveals that the majority of farmers were unaware of the return on vegetable sales. This could be due to low producer prices, a lack of markets, or a lack of patronage. The results are in line with the findings given by Matsane and Oyekale (2014). The majority of the respondents of Cuttack and Puri districts (46.67% and 50.83%, respectively) did not have any awareness about the \"transformation of farmers from being mere producers-sellers\". This shows that the farmers are lagging behind in making their produce profitable. It is expected that if market-led extension on farmers and vegetable production actors is properly implemented, there will be intermediate outcomes like greater market awareness, access to global markets, reliable market data, and enhanced market participation. The intermediate result will lead to the final result, which will be demand-driven production, simple and quick disposal, market access, expanded market, farmer integration, increased income, and greater food security. The above findings are supported by Nwafor et al. (2022). In the Cuttack District, the majority of the respondents (36.67%) are fully aware of \"Acceptance to latest production technologies\", but 37.50 per cent of respondents in the Puri district have partial awareness regarding the same component. These findings are in line with the findings of Singh et al. (2016).\r\nA majority of the respondents of both Cuttack and Puri districts (55.00 % and 50.00 %, respectively) have partial awareness regarding \"market information and market intelligence\". Similar results were found by Phukan et al. (2018). Similarly, a majority of the respondents of both Cuttack (47.50%) and Puri (41.67%) districts have partial awareness of the \"productivity to profitability\" component. This shows that most of the respondents are yet to be concerned about the profitability part of the production system. Possible reasons may be the practise of traditional methods along with the unavailability of suitable marketing information. \"Subsistence to commercial agriculture\" component was partially aware by majority of the respondents (45.00 %) of Cuttack district followed by Puri district (41.67%). This implies that many farmers are still unaware of taking vegetable production as a commercial venture and are only growing vegetables for subsistence purposes. They cannot make this farm profitable unless they include vegetable production commercially. The \"Commodity-oriented to farming systems orientation\" component was partially aware by the respondents (60.00 %) of Cuttack district, followed by Puri district (56.67 %). Respondents of Cuttack District (74.17%) and respondents of Puri District (67.50 %) were fully aware of the component \"Local market to export markets\". This means that respondents are aware of marketing their produce not only in their local market but also to distant places to get a good price. It was seen that around 34.17 per cent of respondents from Cuttack district and 30.00 per cent of respondents from Puri district were fully aware of the \"Mono-cropping to crop diversity\" component. This shows that respondents have to educate themselves about how to use vegetables along with other crops in a crop diversification system and the benefits from them to make a profitable business. Similar results were also found by Kumar et al. (2012). Cuttack district respondents were more aware of the component \"Sensitized towards produce quality,\" with 72.50 percent, followed by Puri district (67.50%). A majority of the respondents in both Cuttack and Puri districts have partial awareness of \"Prospects of Contract Farming\".\r\nThe same table also shows the awareness of the respondents on an overall basis. Results in the table show that respondents on an overall basis were fully aware of the components like \"Local market to export markets\" and \"Sensitized towards produce quality\". Similarly, Results states that Majority of the respondents in overall basis have partial awareness on components like \"Effective Farm Operation Decisions\", \"Acceptance to latest production technologies\", \"Market information & market intelligence\", \"Productivity to profitability\", \"Subsistence to commercial agriculture\", \"Commodity-oriented to farming systems orientation\", \"Mono-cropping to crop diversity\", and \"Prospects of Contract Farming\". Likewise, the components like \"Optimum return for farm investment\" and \"Transformation of farmers from being mere producers-sellers\" were not at all aware by majority of the respondents on an overall basis. The details are shown in Table 1.\r\nCategorization of Vegetable Growers on the basis of awareness on Market-led Extension System. All the respondents of the Cuttack, Puri, and overall were categorised into three differential levels of awareness of the market-led extension system, i.e., low, medium, and high on the basis of the obtained scores by the respective farmers in Fig. 1. According to Fig. 1, 71.67 percent of respondents in the Cuttack District had a medium level of awareness, followed by 20.83 percent and 7.50 percent who had a high and low level of awareness, respectively. Similarly, in Puri District, 66.67 per cent of the respondents are in the medium level category, followed by 20.83 per cent in the low-level category, and 12.50 per cent in the high-level category on awareness of market-led Extension System. Likewise, on an overall basis, the majority of the respondents (69.17 %) had a medium level of awareness followed by a high (16.67%) and a lower (14.16%) level of awareness of the market-led Extension System.','Jeebanjyoti Behera, Sarbani Das, Bibhuti Prasad Mohapatra, Abhiram Dash and Ashish Anand (2022). Awareness of the Vegetable Growers on Market-led Extension System in Odisha. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 14(3): 1110-1114.'),(5433,'114','Citriculture in the Face of Climate Change','Rosangpuii Pachuau, R. Lalmuanpuii and Aditya Pratap Singh','12 Citriculture in the Face of Climate Change Aditya Pratap Singh.pdf','',1,'Climate change is a threat to citriculture and the need to analyze the potential effects of further change in the climate by studying the current state cannot be overemphasized. It is necessary in order to ensure continued successful production of citrus and other horticultural crops in the predictable scenario. The continuously rising temperature and other adverse climate phenomena are altering the environmental conditions in the regions where citrus varieties are currently being cultivated. These fluctuations in the environment that can arise because of rising temperature like water stress in terms of drought and flood or salinity jeopardize the citrus physiology, growth and production and in extreme cases, even plant survival. Studying the plant responses to climate change may hold the key to minimizing the changes while maintaining the production and productivity.','Citrus, citriculture, climate change, effects','-','-','-'),(5434,'102','Genetic variability and Selection Parameters for Yield and its Contributing characters in Bread Wheat (Triticum aestivum L.)','Harshit Tripathi, Bhupendra Kumar, R.K. Yadav, H.C. Singh and Geeta Rai','122 Genetic variability and Selection Parameters for Yield and its Contributing characters in Bread Wheat _Triticum aestivum L._ HARSHIT TRIPATHI.pdf','',1,'Eight parents and their all possible cross combinations excluding their reciprocals were evaluated in a Randomized Block Design (RBD) at C.S.A. University of Agriculture and Technology, Kanpur, U.P., India to find out the extent of variability and related parameters for effective selections for yield and its contributing traits. However, the productivity of wheat has been increasing on a definite rate since recent years. So the material was evaluated to examine the extent of genetic variability which can be used further for the improvement of wheat crop. The results showed higher estimates of Phenotypic Coefficient of Variability (PCV) for all the studied characters as compared with corresponding Genotypic Coefficient of Variability (GCV). Differences between PCV and GCV for grain weight per spike and spike length were higher indicated that these two characters were more influenced by environment, while lower the difference between remaining characters showed stability of the characters. High heritability in narrow sense was observed almost for all the characters except 1000 grain weight and number of grains per spike. Moderate genetic advance was noted for days to heading, biological yield per plant, days to maturity and harvest index per cycle of selection at K=2.06. An advancement of 35.69% in grain yield and 32.26% in harvest index was expected per selection cycle at base population.\r\nBoth additive genes and non-additive genes were found effective for all the characters whereas 1000 grain weight and weight of grains per spike were under the control of non-additive genes. Simple selection based on progeny performance may be helpful for improving grain yield per plant.\r\n','Triticum aestivum, bread wheat, selection parameter, coefficient of variability, genetic advance and heritability.','From this study it can be generally indicated that there was plenty of genetic variability among the genotypes. Thus, there is vast opportunity in the improvement these bread wheat genotypes. Therefore, the results and information generated from current study need to be used by interested plant breeders.\r\nStudies revealed that the grain yield/plant, harvest index and number of tillers/plant with high heritability and high genetic advance followed by days to 50% heading, plant height, number of spikelets per spike, spike length, grain weight/spike and biological yield were the major yield attributing characters coupled with moderate genetic advance, so emphasis should be given for these characters at the time of simple selection. \r\n','INTRODUCTION\r\nSince the dawn of the civilization, wheat became major field crop to feed the human society in every part of the world. It is the crop cultivated under wide area throughout the globe. Wheat is a major staple food crop of the world after rice in the context to its use as a source of human food and energy. It forms the major share of intake of nutrients for the people. Besides staple food for human beings; its straw is used for large population of cattle in India and some other developing countries. Wheat is being grown in more than 120 countries and takes an area of 215.29 million hectares with the production of nearly 736.04 million tonnes and with the productivity of about 3425 kg per hectare (FAO, 2020). Rank of India is second both in area and production next to China. In India area under wheat is 29.58 million hectare with the production of 107.86 million tonnes, productivity of 3568 kg per hectare (DAC&FW, 2020). The present study is based on twelve quantitative characters measured on eight germplasm lines with one check. Information on the variability was measured by estimating the genotypic coefficient of variation (GCV), phenotypic coefficient of variation (PCV), heritability and genetic advance for individual quantitative character and through equilibrium distance over the characters. In addition the present study will also helpful in identification of high yielding genotypes with better quality. In crop improvement only the genetic components of variation is important because this is the only component which transmit to the next generation (Mohammadi and Parasana 2003). Heritability is the ratio of genotypic variance (Vg) to the phenotypic variance (Vp). Heritability is an important parameter in the selection process as it determines the response to selection. Heritability is used by plant breeders to enhance the precision of single field trial and/or of series of trials (Allard, 1962). Study of the estimates of heritability with genetic advance is more meaningful and reliable than considering the parameters individually. \r\nMATERIAL AND METHODS\r\nFor present investigation the field experiments were conducted in two cropping season, first in Rabi season 2017-18 and second in Rabi season 2018-19 at Crop Research Farm, Nawabganj of C. S. A. University of Agriculture and Technology, Kanpur, U.P. India. The material of experiment comprised of 8 diverse lines of bread wheat namely, K 424, K 7903, WR 544, DBW 14, DBW 71, PBW 343, K 307 and K 9162. The salient features of these parental lines are given in Table-A.\r\nThe lines were sown following a randomized complete block design (RCBD) with three replications where each entry sown in one row of 3 meter length per replication. The entries were sown with inter and intra-row spacing of 25 cm and 10 cm, respectively. All the recommended agronomical practices were adopted to raise the crop. For twelve characters viz. (1) Days to 50% heading, (2) Number of tillers per plant, (3) Plant height(cm), (4) Days to maturity, (5) Number of spikelets/ spike, (6) Spike length (cm), (7) Number of grains/spike, (8) Grain weight/spike (g), (9) Biological yield per plant (g), (10) Grain yield per plant (g), (11) One thousand grain weight (g) and (12) Harvest index (%) observations were recorded from the five randomly selected plants from each genotype.\r\n“K-7903”a popular wheat variety of this region was also used as ‘check variety’ in this experiment.\r\nEstimation of coefficient of variability: The computation of genotypic coefficient of variability (GCV) and phenotypic coefficient of variability (PCV) was done by the formula given by Burton and de Vane (1953).\r\n\r\n \r\n Or \r\n\r\n \r\nOr \r\nHeritability: Heritability (h2) in broad sense was computed following the formula given by Johnson et al. (1955). \r\nh2bs (%) = Vg/Vp ×100\r\nWhere, \r\nh2 = Heritability in broad sense \r\nVg = Genotypic variance \r\nVp = Phenotypic variance \r\nGenetic advance: The calculation of the estimates of genetic advance was done according to the formula given by Robinson et al. (1949). \r\nGenetic Advance = (ph)  (K)  (h2bs) \r\nGenetic advance in per cent of mean of the character G.A. (%) = \r\nWhere, \r\nG.A. = Genetic advance estimate \r\nK = Selection differential at 5% selection intensity (K = 2.06)\r\nh2 = Coefficient of heritability in broad sense. \r\nPh = Phenotypic standard deviation. \r\n = Mean value of the concerned character\r\nRESULT AND DISCUSSION\r\nAnalysis of Variance (ANOVA). The analysis of variance (ANOVA) for all the twelve characters was given in Table 1. Treatments and parents showed highly significant differences for all the characters. The comparison of parent’s vs Fl generation indicated highly significant differences for number of tillers per plant, number of spikelets per spike, spike length, number of grains per spike, biological yield per plant, grain yield per plant and 1000 grain weight while significant differences for plant height and harvest index. These results indicated the plenty of variability among the genotypes studied and this would respond positively to selection.\r\nSeveral researchers like Kalimullah et al. (2012) reported that the characters viz. number of grains per/spike, number of tillers/plant, 1000 grain weight and grain yield per plant showed highly significant differences among 41 bread wheat genotypes. Similarly work of Mecha et al. (2016) showed the significant differences among 64 genotypes of bread wheat for thirteen characters and Kumar et al. (2020) showed the significant differences among 81 genotypes of bread wheat for 14 quantitative characters.\r\nRange and Mean Values. In Table 2 range and mean values for the 12 characters is presented. Mean value for days to heading reported 74.12 ranged from 65.33 (K-7903) to 82.67(DBW-71). Number of productive tillers per plant is an important character in wheat that ultimately affects the overall grain yield. It showed a wide variation which ranged from 6.70 (K-7903) to 18.17 (K-307) with the mean value of 11.87. Plant height ranged from 82.60 (K-424) to 92.70 (K-307) with the mean value of 87.77. The average of days to maturity was 121 days and it ranged from 111 days (K-424) to 129.67 days (PBW-343). The character number of spikelets per spike ranged from 16.83 (K-7903) to 20.43 (DBW-14) with the mean value of 18.60. \r\nAverage spike length was 8.69cm with the minimum and maximum values of 7.80cm (PBW-343) and 10cm (K-307) respectively. Number of grains per spike ranged from 43.70 (K-7903) to 49.57 (PBW-343) with the mean value of 46.98. The character weight of grain per spike with mean value of 1.61g ranged from 1.40g (K-424) to 2g (K-7903). The biological yield per plant varied from 39.13g for PBW-343 to 48.10g for K-307 with the average of 42.62g. Grain yield per plant ranged from 12.47g (K-7903) to 18.70g (K-307) with the mean value of 14.31g. The mean value for 1000 grain weight was 47.46g and ranged from 41.07g (DBW-71) to 54.60g (WR-544). \r\nThe range observed for harvest index was wide with the minimum value of 29.27% and the highest 41.83% in respect of parents WR-544 and PBW-343, respectively. The observed mean harvest index was 33.71%. Similarly, Maqbool et al. (2010) also reported a wide range of variation for the characters namely plant height, number of spikelets/ spike, biological yield per plant, grain yield per plant and 1000-grain weight.\r\nCoefficients of variation. In Table 3 the estimates of genotypic coefficient of variation (GCV) and phenotypic coefficient of variation (PCV) is presented. It is apparent from the table that phenotypic coefficient of variation was invariably greater than the corresponding genotypic coefficient of variation revealed the influence of environment on the expression of all the traits.\r\nClassification of PCV and GCV values as low (0-10%), moderate (10-20%) and high (20% and above) values by Deshmukh et al. (1986). Considering this delineation, GCV found high for number of tillers per plant (21.03), medium GCV was observed for grain yield per plant (17.93), harvest index (15.83), grain weight per spike (15.65) biological yield per plant (12.31), spike length (9.45), and low GCV was observed for 1000 grain weight (9.06), days to heading (7.42), plant height (6.04), number of spikelets per spike (5.67), number of grain per spike (5.06) and days to maturity (3.88) (Table 3).\r\nThe PCV found high for the character number of tiller per plant(21.68) and medium PCV was observed for grain yield per plant (18.56), grain weight per spike(18.05), harvest index (16.00), biological yield per plant (12.98), spike length (11.10) and low PCV was observed for 1000 grain weight (9.17), days to heading (7.51), plant height (6.41), number of spikelets per spike (6.39) number of grain per spike (5.55) and days to maturity (3.94) (Table 3).\r\nThe result observed were in accordance with the findings of Kumar et al. (2020) reported for 1000 grain weight and grain yield per plant, Wani et al. (2011); Kalimmulah et al. (2012) for grain yield per plant, 1000 grains weight, number of grains/spike in wheat. Saini et al. (2019) reported low GCV and PCV values for days to heading and plant height.\r\nHeritability and genetic advance. Heritability (h2bs), genetic advance (GA) and genetic advance as percent of mean (GAM) estimates for characters under study are indicated in Table 4. The genotypic coefficient of variation (GCV) along with estimates of heritability provides reliable estimates of genetic advance to be expected through phenotypic selection (Burton, 1952). Classification of heritability values as high (>60%), moderate (30-60%) and values less than 30% low was done by Robinson et al. (1949).\r\nFrom the present investigation results indicated that high heritability values were observed for all the studied characters. Estimates of heritability high for these characters indicated that the variation observed was under genetic control and have less effects of the environment and this gives possibility of progress from selection. Prasad et al. (2020) observed higher heritability value for the characters namely plant height, days to flowering, number of tillers per plant, grain yield/plant and number of grains/spike. Further, Kumar et al. (2013); Kumar et al. (2020) observed high estimates of heritability for grain yield per plant, number of spikelets/spike, plant height and 1000 grain weight and number of tillers/plant.\r\nThe expression of expected genetic advance as a percentage of the mean by selecting the top 5% of the bread wheat advanced genotypes ranged from 7.89% for days to maturity to 42.04% for number of tillers per plant (Table 4). It indicated that selecting the top 5% of the base population could have the advancement of 7.89 to 42.04 percent over the respective population mean. Genetic advance as percentage of mean was maximum for number of tillers per plant (42.04%) followed by grain yield per plant (35.69%) and harvest index (32.26%).\r\nHigh heritability associated with high genetic advance were observed for number of tillers per plant (94.10%, 42.04%), grain yield per plant (93.30%, 35.69%), harvest index (97.90%, 32.26%) and biological yield per plant (90.0%, 24.07%), respectively. The results were reported in the earlier work done by Kalimullah et al. (2012); Kumar et al. (2020).\r\n','Harshit Tripathi, Bhupendra Kumar, R.K. Yadav, H.C. Singh and Geeta Rai (2021). Genetic variability and Selection Parameters for Yield and its Contributing characters in Bread Wheat (Triticum aestivum L.). Biological Forum – An International Journal, 13(3): 706-711.'),(5435,'105','Combining Ability and Gene Action for Grain Yield in Bread Wheat (Triticum aestivum L.)','Harshit Tripathi, Bhupendra Kumar, R.K. Yadav, H.C. Singh and R.P. Vyas','146 Combining Ability and Gene Action for Grain Yield in Bread Wheat Triticum aestivum L. HARSHIT TRIPATHI.pdf','',1,'The selection of suitable genotypes/parents and their crosses is a prerequisite in order to formulate a systematic breeding programme for the improvement of crops. Combining ability analysis was studied in a half diallel set of 8 × 8 in bread wheat (Triticum aestivum L.). Variances for both general and specific combining abilities were found highly significant for all the characters which are indicative of the importance of both additive and non-additive gene effects. The ratios (σ2GCA/σ2SCA) of σ2gca and σ2sca estimates were observed less than unity for all the characters indicated that non-additive genetic components play relatively greater role in the inheritance of all the characters. The genotypes viz. PBW-343, K-307 and DBW-71 showed significant and positive gca effects for grain yield per plant which indicate their ability as good general combiners for the character. Ten cross combinations exhibited significant and positive SCA effects for the character grain yield per plant. The highest SCA effect for the character was exhibited by the cross combinations DBW71×PBW343, DBW14×K307 and K424×DBW71. The cross combination DBW-71×PBW-343 was found most promising as it showed high SCA effect together with per se performance for the characters viz., grain yield per plant, number of tillers per plant, weight of grain per spike and 1000-grain weight which could be further exploited in plant breeding programmes.','Combining ability, gene action, grain yield, bread wheat','Form present investigation highly significant variances for both general and specific combining abilities were found for all the characters which indicated that both additive and non-additive gene effects are important. The values of GCA and SCA ratio estimates were observed less than unity for all the studied characters. The conclusion can be framed as information on GCA effects should be supplemented by SCA effects and performance of crosses to predict the transgressive segregants in segregating generations. Seed yield is polygenically controlled quantitative, complex character and due to predominance of non-additive gene action, it would be appreciable to resort to breeding methodologies, such as recurrent selection, biparental mating, and diallel selective mating than to use of backcross techniques or conventional pedigree method.','INTRODUCTION\r\nWheat occupies first position among cereal crops both in context of its antiquity and use as a major source of human food. It is considered as a major staple food crop of the world after rice. Extensive references are available for wheat in ancient Indian scriptures. There in Atharva-Veda which supposed to have been written between 1500 B.C. and 500 B.C. refers to the wheat grain. India takes second rank both in area and production after China in the world. The share of India in world’s wheat area and production is near to 13%. Thus, India has considered not only being self sufficient in wheat food grains but also in export to needy and friendly countries on a limited scale. Area under wheat crop at national level is 30.78 million hectare with the production of 107.86 million tonnes having a productivity of 3.5 metric tonnes per hectare (DACFW 2020). Contribution of wheat is about 34% of total food grain production of country. The plant breeders always have concern of the choice for suitable parents to evolve better varieties/hybrids. To discriminate good as well as poor combiners to choose appropriate parental materials for a particular character in the plant breeding programme the combining ability plays an important role. At the same time, the analysis of combining ability provides information about the nature of gene action involved in the inheritance of grain yield and its component characters. In a systematic breeding programme, selection of parents having good general combining ability effects for grain yield and its components and the estimates which are higher for specific combining ability effects are essential. With the help of these estimates formulation of sound, efficient and effective breeding procedure to bring about rapid and purposeful improvement is possible in the crop. The present investigation was, therefore, planned to study combining ability and genetic architecture of grain yield and its component characters in bread wheat crosses obtained from 8 × 8 half diallel mating design.\r\nMATERIALS AND METHODS\r\nFor present investigation the experimental material comprised of 28 F1s developed by crossing eight diverse lines viz., K 424, K 7903, WR 544, DBW 14, DBW 71, PBW 343, K 307 and K 9162 following half diallel mating design was carried out at Crop Research Farm, Nawabganj, Chandra Shekhar Azad University of Agriculture and Technology, Kanpur- 208 002 (U.P.) during Rabi season, 2017-19.\r\nThe experimental material consisted of 36 genotypes (28 F1s + 8 parents) were sown in Randomized Block Design with three replications after randomization in late sown (LS) condition. The lines/entries were sown in a 3 meter long single row plot with inter and intra-row spacing of 23 cm and 10 cm, respectively. For twelve characters viz. days to 50% heading, number of tillers per plant, plant height (cm), days to maturity, length of spike (cm), number of spikelet per spike, number of grains per spike, grain yield per plant (g), weight of grain per spike (g), 1000 grain weight (g), biological yield per plant (g) and harvest index %., observations were recorded from the five randomly selected plants in parents and their F1s. Than the analysis of variance for GCA and SCA were carried out according to Griffing’s (1956) model-1, method 2.\r\nRESULTS AND DISCUSSION\r\nThe analysis of variance (ANOVA) for combining ability showed that variances for both general combining ability (GCA) and specific combining ability (SCA) were highly significant for all the characters which indicated that both additive and non-additive gene effects are important. The values of gca and sca ratio estimates were observed less than unity for all the characters indicated non-additive component played relatively greater role in the inheritance of the characters studied (Table 1). The magnitude of SCA variances was higher than their respective GCA variances for all the characters revealed preponderance of non additive gene action. Similar findings were also reported by Singh et al. (2014); Zahid et al. (2011); Ayoob (2020).\r\nOn the basis of per se performance and gca effects (Table 2) good general combiners were K424, K7903 and WR544 for days to heading , K424, K7903 and PBW343 for plant height, K424, K7903 and DBW71 for days to maturity, K 307, PBW343 and K9162 for number of tillers per plant, DBW14, K9162 and PBW343 for number of spikelets per spike, K9162 and K307 for spike length, PBW343, WR544 and K9162 for number of grain per spike, WR544 and PBW343 for 1000 grain weight, K7903 for weight of grain per spike, K307 and WR544 for biological yield per plant, PBW343, K307 and DBW71 for grain yield per plant PBW343 and DBW71 for harvest index. Genotype PBW343 was found good general combiner for the characters viz. plant height, number of tillers per plant, number of grains per spike, number of spikelets per spike, 1000 grain weight, and grain yield per plant and harvest index. In this study almost all the good general combiners showed the similar trend on the basis of gca effects and per se performance. Similar results were reported by Parveen et al. (2021).\r\nAs regards the specific combining ability effects, ten cross combinations which exhibited significant and positive SCA effects for grain yield per plant. The cross combination DBW71×PBW343 (good × good) recorded the highest SCA effect (3.84) followed by DBW14×K307 (3.61, poor × good), K424×DBW71 (3.20, poor x good),K-7903×PBW-343 (3.19, average × good) and K-7903×K-307 (2.73, average × good) were rated as good specific cross combinations for this character (Table 3). Similar results were reported by Desale et al. (2014); Sharma et al. (2019).\r\nThe specific combining ability effect for days to 50% heading varied from DBW14×K307 (-6.79) to DBW14× PBW343 (9.24) in F1 generation. Out of twenty eight crosses nine crosses have negative and highly significant sca effect. Top five crosses DBW14×K307, K7903×K307, PBW343×K9162, WR544×K9162, K424×PBW343 and DBW71×K307 in Fl generation showed highly significant value of sca effect. \r\nThe sca effect values for number of tillers per plants varied from PBW343×K307 (-3.31) to K7903×K9162 (4.524). Out of twenty eight crosses twelve cross combination showed highly positive and significant sca effect. The top three crosses in order of merit were K7903×K9162, DBW71×PBW343 and K424×DBW14 as good specific combiners.\r\nIn Fl generation, the range of sca effect were found between K7903×K307 (-7.27) to K7903×PBW343 (14.14). The ten cross combinations showed negative and significant values of sca effect for desirable dwarfness. The first three crosses in order of merit were K7903×K307, K7903×WR544 and WR544×DBW14 with good specific combiners.\r\nThe value of sca effect for days to maturity ranged from DBW-71×K-307 (-4.81) to K-424×DBW-71 (7.16) in Fl generation. Twelve cross combinations showed negative and highly significant sca effect, good specific combiners were viz. DBW71×K307, K7903×K9162, WR544×K307, PBW343×K307 and WR544×PBW343 showed highly significant negative value of sca effect.\r\nThe cross combinations for number of spikelets per spike have sca effect ranged from DBW14×K307 (-1.47) to K7903×DBW71 (1.130). Eight cross combinations exhibited positive and significant sca effect. The top three cross combinations were K7903×DBW71, K7903×K307 and K7903×K9162.\r\nThe values of sca effect varied from DBW71×K9162 (-1.09) to K424×DBW71 (1.42) in Fl progeny for spike length. Eight cross combination out of twenty eight crosses showed positive and highly significant sca effect. The top three good cross combinations were K424×DBW71, K7903×K307 and DBW71×PBW343.\r\nThe values of sca effect for number of grains per main spike ranged from K424×DBW71 (-3.10) to DBW14×K9162 (3.01). Ten cross combinations showed positive and highly significant sca effect. The top three cross combinations were found good specific combiners DBW14×K9162, K424×K307 and K7903×PBW343.\r\nThe range of sca effect varied from PBW343×K9162 (-0.32) to DBW14×PBW343 (0.78) for grain yield per plant. Seven cross combinations were positive and highly significant for desirable sca effect in which top three are DBW14×PBW343, DBW71×PBW343 and K424×WR544.\r\nThe range of sca effect varied from K424×K307 (-7.96) to DBW71×K9162 (14.15) for biological yield per plant. Ten cross crosses showed positive and significant sca effect. The three best cross combinations were DBW71×K9162, DBW14×K307 and K424×PBW343 found good specific combiners.\r\nThe range of sca effect for 1000 grain weight varied from K7903×DBW71 (-6.56) to K424×K9162 (8.55). Only ten cross combinations out of twenty eight crosses indicated positive and significant sca effect. Top three cross combinations were K424×K9162, K7903×K307 and DBW71×K9162.\r\nThe range of sca effect varied from DBW71×K9162 (-7.60) to WR544×PBW343 (9.08) for harvest index per plant. Twelve crosses showed positive and highly significant value for desirable sca effect. Fourteen cross combinations showed negative and significant for sca effect. The top three cross combinations were WR544×PBW343, DBW14×DBW71 and WR544×DBW1 as good specific combiners (Table 4).\r\nA comparison between mean performance of hybrids and their SCA effects revealed that high per se performance of cross combinations was related with their significant SCA effects in majority of characters studied. Top five common cross combinations on the basis of per se performance and SCA effects were DBW71×PBW343, DBW14×K307, K424×DBW71, K-7903×PBW-343, and K-7903 × K-307 for grain yield per plant (Table 3). Best cross combiners for different characters were K-7903×WR-544 for plant height, DBW-71×PBW-343 for number of tillers per plant, K-7903×K-307 for spike length, DBW-71×K-9162 and K-424×K 9162 for 1000 grain weight. DBW-14×PBW-343 and DBW-71×PBW-343 for weight of grains per spike, DBW-71×K-9162 and DBW-14×K-307 for biological yield per plant and WR-544×PBW-343 for harvest index. Similar findings were also reported by Seboka et al. (2009); Tayade et al. (2020); Ayoob (2020).\r\n','Harshit Tripathi, Bhupendra Kumar, R.K. Yadav, H.C. Singh and R.P. Vyas (2021). Combining Ability and Gene Action for Grain Yield in Bread Wheat (Triticum aestivum L.). Biological Forum – An International Journal, 13(3a): 830-834.'),(5436,'136','Cercospora Leaf Spot (CLS) Disease Resistance Screening of Mung bean [Vigna radiata (L.) Wilczek] Germplasms','J.P. Sahoo, K.C. Samal, D. Lenka, S.K. Beura, L. Behera and S.B. Sawant','189 Cercospora Leaf Spot _CLS_ Disease Resistance Screening of Mung bean [Vigna radiata _L._ Wilczek] Germplasms Jyoti Prakash Sahoo.pdf','',1,'Mung bean productivity is very sensitive to CLS disease, which needs to be addressed by developing resistance genotypes. During the pre rabi seasons of the year 2018 and 2019, a total of ninety different mung bean germplasm accessions were tested in the field condition to determine their level of resistance to the leaf spot disease caused by the fungus Cercospora canescens. For the purpose of determining the level of resistance exhibited by the mung bean accessions, a disease rating scale ranging from 1 to 5 was used. In terms of disease reaction, a significant variation among the genotypes was observed. It was found that thirty-two accessions had resistance reaction, and thirty-five accessions had moderately resistance reactions to the CLS disease. According to the findings of the current research, resistant and moderately resistant genotypes that have been identified against the CLS disease, could have the potential to be utilised in the breeding programme, that is being conducted in order to develop mung bean varieties resistant to Cercospora leaf spot.','Cercospora leaf spot, Cercospora canescens, Mung bean, Screening','Based on the current findings, the thirty-two resistance accessions and thirty-five moderately resistant accessions for CLS disease may be used in a breeding programme aimed at developing a high-level resistant mung bean variety against CLS. The findings of this study could also serve as a prerequisite and starting point for launching a crop improvement programme aimed at introducing CLS resistant genes or QTLs into elite mung bean cultivars. The resistance and moderately resistant varieties identified in this study may also be validated by further field screening and then could be used as resistant sources for the introgression of CLS resistant genes into elite mung bean cultivars through advanced molecular breeding approaches.','INTRODUCTION\r\nThe mung bean [Vigna radiata L. Wilczek], is a grain legume crop of the genus Vigna that is widely cultivated for commercial purposes. The quantity of mung bean production in South and Southeast Asia is rising steadily (Priyadarshini et al., 2020). It has a relatively short life cycle and rapid growth when it is being cultivated, both of which contribute to its widespread use (Jat et al., 2012). In addition, if it has a symbiotic interaction with Rhizobium, it can fix nitrogen from the atmosphere. This enhances the health of the soil and results in increased agricultural production (Sahoo & Sharma 2018). In comparison to other cereals and legumes, the mung bean does not present the same level of risk to one\'s health due to its good digestibility, high Vitamin B content, and high protein content. The genome of the mung bean is small, measuring 494-579 mega base pairs (Chand et al., 2015). \r\nHistorically speaking, the majority of its cultivation takes place in the Asian region; but, in more recent times, its cultivation has spread to both Africa and the America. However, the yield of mung beans is extremely vulnerable to biotic stresses such as Cercospora leaf spot (Sahoo et al., 2021a). Mung bean is prone to the spread of Cercospora canescens, the fungus that is responsible for the Cercospora leaf spot (CLS) disease (Sahoo et al., 2020a; Sandhu et al., 2022). This necessitates special attention, because the disease can inhibit plant growth and lead to a decrease in seed production. The genetic diversity of Cercospora spp. makes it possible for CLS to manifest as a severe disease in a variety of hosts and geographic locations (Joshi, 2006; Das et al., 2020). The Cercospora fungus requires infected seed and waste plant material in order to thrive.\r\nCLS is common in Asia, and it causes the most damage in regions that have high relative humidity (79–85%) and daily temperatures that average 22.5–23.5°C (Batzer et al., 2022). The humidity plays a significant role in the germination of conidia (Kumar et al., 2011). The symptoms of the disease often manifest one to two weeks after the plant is inoculated with the pathogen. The pathogens can infect plants at any stage of growth (Samal et al., 2021). The disease becomes more severe as the plant ages, and it is also possible for the diseases to infect the pods during maturity (Bhat et al., 2014; Sahoo et al., 2018; Sahoo et al., 2019). As a result, it is essential to identify CLS disease-resistant cultivars in mung bean and to create a management package that will both minimise the cost of production and protect the environment, during the mung bean cultivation.\r\nMATERIALS AND METHODS\r\nPlant Materials. Ninety mung bean genotypes, including four check varieties, are collected from the Department of Agricultural Biotechnology, College of Agriculture, Odisha University of Agriculture and Technology (OUAT), Bhubaneswar, India and included for screening against CLS resistance in the present study.\r\nFungal isolation, culture and preparation of inoculums. Cercospora infected diseased leaf samples were collected from the Centre for Pulses Research (CPR), Berhampur, India, from the infected cultivar, IPM-02-14 with GPS information NL 190 21’ 38’’ and EL 840 45’ 54’’, that displayed the typical CLS symptoms to isolate the pathogen Cercospora canescens (Chupp, 1953). After spreading the pathogen spores over a 2% water-agar plate and placing the plates in an incubator at 25°C, the pathogen spores were collected from the ash grey centre of the lesions at the tip of the inoculation needle. Under a microscope (100x), sporulation were observed and marked after an incubation period of six hours. Individual germinated spores were collected using a cork borer that had been cleaned with water agar. \r\nThese spores were then deposited on tilted potato dextrose agar in culture tubes. The recognisable characteristics of Cercospora canescens included its typical growth, the generation of cercosporin (Daub, 1982), and typical conidia and conidiophores (Ellis and Martin, 1882). A pure culture of the isolate was kept at a temperature of 25°C on a medium consisting of potato dextrose agar (PDA). After that, Sorghum grains were boiled until soft without breaking the seed coat in order to facilitate the growth of inoculum. After boiling, the grains were spread out in the shade in order to reduce the amount of excess moisture. Sorghum grains weighing 200 g were placed in a polypropylene bag with dimensions of 30 centimetres by 20 centimetres before being sterilised in an autoclave for 45 minutes at a temperature of 121.6°C and a pressure of 15 pounds per square inch. \r\nAfter being injected with 10 pieces of fungal mycelia with a diameter of 7 mm collected from a culture that was 15 days old, these bags were kept in an incubator at a temperature of 25°C for 20 days. Mycelia from the fungus Cercospora canescens invaded all of the grains. After the bags had been completely colonised, they were aggressively shaken to break up the network of mycelia, and then they were re-incubated at 25 ºC. After incubation for 25 days, spore formation was detected (Chand et al., 2013). The inoculum was made by taking grains that had already been colonised and dispersing them in one litre of sterile water. After the sporulated grains were mixed, they were vigorously agitated for 15 minutes in order to detach the spores, and then they were filtered through muslin cloth. In order to get an acceptable level of spore load for inoculation, further dilution of the spore suspension was performed.\r\nExperimental details and screening methodology. CLS disease reaction of a set of ninety genotypes along with suitable susceptible checks such as HUM-8 (Singh et al., 2017), PM-1522 (Singh et al., 2021) and KAMDEV (local check), were evaluated under natural field conditions in the experimental field of Experimental Field station, EB-2 at College of Agriculture, OUAT, Bhubaneswar, during pre rabi 2018 and pre rabi 2019. Each plot contains three rows of one-meter length and the seeds are sown in a spacing of 30 × 10 cm. As the initial or basal dose of fertilizer, all of the FYM, phosphorous, and potash as well as half of the nitrogen fertilizers were applied. The remaining half of the nitrogen fertilizer was applied 21 days after the seeds were sown. During the process of top dressing, hoeing and hand weeding were also performed. It was ensured that maximum CLS disease pressure would occur by taking all of the essential precautions, such as preserving the ideal level of humidity and planting susceptible checks all along the borders and after every twenty test genotypes. The prepared spore suspension was artificially inoculated to all of the genotypes at 20, 25, and 30 days after planting (DAP), by using a sprayer. \r\nAfter the crop was inoculated, it underwent consistent checking to determine whether or not the CLS pathogen was present and whether or not the disease was progressing in natural field condition (Ahmad et al., 2013), by monitoring the symptoms including the individual, circular spots that are tan to light brown with reddish purple borders (Fig. 1). After that, a conidium sample was collected from a infected plant, and it was analysed under a light microscope to determine whether or not the symptoms of the disease were caused by an infection with Cercospora canescens. Infection on the leaves of each plant was then scored for CLS reaction at 40 DAP on a rating scale of 1–5 (Chankaew et al., 2011), where, 1: resistance (R); 2: moderately resistance (MR); 3: moderately susceptible (MS); 4: susceptible (S), and 5: highly susceptible (HS).\r\nRESULTS\r\nThe overall CLS reaction under field during the year pre rabi 2018 and pre rabi 2019 showed occurrence of 35% resistance accessions, 39% moderately resistance accessions, 9% moderately susceptible accessions, 10% susceptible accessions and 7% highly susceptible accessions respectively (Fig. 2). Thirty-two accessions were found resistant, and thirty-five accessions were found moderately resistant reaction against the CLS disease (Table 1). Rest of the accessions were showing either susceptible or moderately susceptible or highly susceptible CLS reaction.\r\nDISCUSSION\r\nMung bean is a popular pulse crop grown in Pakistan, India, and many other countries. Cercospora leaf spot is a major mung bean fungal disease that causes significant yield loss due to poor cultural practises and the incorrect crop rotation system (Marappa, 2008). Fungicides and botanicals can be used to manage the disease, but the most appropriate recommendation is to use resistant mung bean varieties (Marappa, 2008). As a result, the current study\'s goal was to screen mung bean genotypes for resistance to CLS. The current study\'s screening results using 90 genotypes revealed a wide variation towards CLS reaction, with scores ranging from 1 to 5. For CLS stress resistance in the studied population, five phenotypic groups were identified: R (resistance), MR (moderately resistance), MS (moderately susceptible), S (susceptible), and HS (highly susceptible). The current study observed thirty-two resistance and thirty-five moderately resistance genotypes. \r\nPreviously, researchers confirmed the presence of genetic variation for CLS resistance in mung bean. Different genotypes of CLS disease resistance have been reported from various locations in India. CLS resistance has been discovered in ML-5, ML-15, and ML-3 (Mew et al., 1975). Following that, four genotypes, ML-231, ML-5, ML-267, and ML-337, were resistant to CLS and had high seed yield (Marappa, 2008). In another study, five varieties, CO-4, CO-5, ML-515, BM-4, and TM-98-50, were found to be resistant to CLS, while nine genotypes, LM-1, LM-319, LNM-729, HUM-6, SG-1, AAU-34, TM-98-37, V-461, and VC-3944, were found to be moderately resistant (IIPR Annual report, 2017-18). Similarly, in previous studies, resistant, moderately resistant, and highly resistant mung bean varieties were screened for CLS resistance. Resistance to CLS was found in 4 genotypes (Gupta et al., 2007), 15 genotypes (Kaur et al., 2011), 10 genotypes (Singh et al., 2004), 4 genotypes (Marappa, 2008), 4 genotypes (Yadav et al., 2014), 8 genotypes (Singh and Singh 2014), and 5 genotypes (Zhimo et al., 2013) of mung bean studied in India. Similarly, according to a previous study, 7 CLS resistance genotypes were obtained in Taiwan (Hartman et al., 1993).\r\nThe majority of the mung bean varieties in the present study were found to be resistant or moderately resistant to CLS stress in the current study. It can be concluded that the panel population studied possesses significant genetic variation for CLS resistance (Sahoo et al., 2022). However, agronomically significant variations in crop plants, such as resistance to biotic stresses in mung bean, are controlled by polygenic inheritance of complex traits known as QTLs (Quantitative Trait Loci), which are dependent on the interaction of genetic and environmental factors (Sohail and Fakharuddin, 2021; Nagalla et al., 2022). Mapping and characterising these genomic regions in the mung bean genome using resistance varieties can facilitate marker-assisted breeding for crop improvement towards CLS resistance in mung bean.\r\n','J.P. Sahoo, K.C. Samal, D. Lenka, S.K. Beura, L. Behera and S.B. Sawant (2022). Cercospora Leaf Spot (CLS) Disease Resistance Screening of Mung bean [Vigna radiata (L.) Wilczek] Germplasms. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 14(3): 1115-1119.'),(5437,'136','Anti-bacterial Potential of Carbon Dots derived from Coconut Waste','K.P. Devadharshini, S.K. Rajkishore, M. Maheswari, Pon. Sathya Moorthy, M. Prasanthrajan, R. Sunitha, R. Abhinayaa and V.S. Reddy Kiran Kalyan','190 Anti-bacterial Potential of Carbon Dots derived from Coconut Waste S.K. Rajkishore.pdf','',1,'Carbon dots (CDs) are emerging zero-dimensional carbon nanomaterials (<10 nm) with wide spectrum of applications. One of the best advantages of utilizing carbon dots in developing fields is its large scope to synthesize from various synthetic and agro-wastes like coconut wastes for its cost-effective production. The disposal issue of this waste shell has been solved by its use as a precursor for the synthesis of CDs with antimicrobial property. This study was attempted to synthesize valuable carbon dots from coconut waste (shell) and assess its antibacterial activity of CDs. CDs were synthesized by pyrolysis method followed by sonication and characterized through High resolution transmission electron microscope (HR-TEM) to confirm its average size as 7 nm. The synthesized CDs were subjected to multi-assay approaches to assess its toxicity potential against E scherichia coli (E. coli), a common indicator of water contamination. Resazurin test showed CDs @ 500 ppm as Minimum Inhibitory Concentration (MIC) against E. coli. Furthermore, MTT assay demonstrated dose dependent toxicity of CDs wherein the lowest dose (0.48 ppm) exhibited highest cell viability (97.9 %) and the highest dose (1000 ppm) recorded lowest cell viability (48.3%). Overall, the coconut shell derived CDs were found to be a potential anti-bacterial agent which has a great scope for wide range of environmental applications. Cytotoxic effect of CDs was assessed using MTT assay founds to observe reduction in cell viability to 48.34 % at 1000 ppm. Minimum inhibitory concentration (MIC) and cell viability assay (MTT) revealed that CDs showed toxicity against E. coli and it can be used in various disinfection systems. ','Antibacterial activity, Carbon dots, Coconut shell, Cytotoxicity, E. coli, MTT, Resazurin','Overall, the results revealed that carbon dots synthesized from coconut waste (shell) with an average size of 7 nm showed antibacterial activity against E. coli culture. Moreover, dose dependent cytotoxicity potential of CDs was also demonstrated in this study with MIC of 500 ppm against E. coli. In this study, the lowest dose (0.48 ppm) of CDs exhibited highest cell viability of 97.9 % and the highest dose (1000 ppm) of CDs recorded lowest cell viability of 48.3 %. ','INTRODUCTION\r\nNanotechnology has immense potential to contribute for the development of various fields of sciences including medical, pharmaceutical and environmental clean-up (Kaur et al., 2021; Garg, 2021). Metal and metal oxide nanoparticles have been extensively used in all these scientific fields, but they have a number of disadvantages, including toxicity and non-biodegradability (Khayal et al., 2021). Carbon dots (CDs), the youngest member in carbon nanomaterial family were discovered by Xu et al. (2004) during the electrophoretic purification of single walled carbon nanotubes. These novel nanomaterials are considered as a viable substitute for metal-based nanoparticles due to their biocompatibility and feasibility (Wang et al., 2020). The synthesis methods of carbon dots can be divided into two main categories, top-down and bottom-up approaches (Wang and Hu 2014). Despite the fact that carbon dots can be synthesized from diverse biomasses, crop residues are considered as potential sources (Kang et al., 2020; Kurian and Paul 2021). Among the various crop residues, coconut wastes have been exploited for synthesis of carbon dots (Chunduri et al., 2016; Chauhan et al., 2020; Abinaya et al., 2021). Additionally, the use of coconut shell as a beginning precursor for the synthesis of CDs has been signified by the presence of cellulose, hemicelluloses, and lignin (Abinaya et al., 2021). The disposal issue of this coconut waste has been solved by converting bulk carbonaceous materials into effective CDs, which has antibacterial properties (Chauhan et al., 2020). These CDs are widely exploited for bioimaging and biosensing applications (Su et al., 2020) and research is being focussed to explore the possibilities of applying CDs as antibacterial agents (Yang et al., 2016; Lin et al., 2019). Therefore, the development of more potent antibacterial drugs for long-term usage is widely used to combat bacterial contamination. Earlier reports showed that the CDs has the ability to inhibit and suppress various microorganisms (Jijie et al., 2018). With this background, this study was designed to evolve a win-win strategy for effectively transforming coconut wastes into CDs and understand its potential as anti-bacterial agent. In this study, the antibacterial performance of CDs has been analysed using multi-assay approaches via Escherichia coli (E. coli), the most common indicator for faecal contamination in drinking water (Ishii and Sadowsky 2008). Hence, this current work has proposed a novel and green synthetic methodology for synthesising carbon dots using coconut waste.\r\n With more studies using in-vitro approaches for toxicological assessments, a clearer understanding of the toxicological behaviour of nanomaterials is essential. Among the different assays, the resazurin assay is simple, quick, versatile, economical (Pereira et al., 2020), and has a strong correlation with other methods used to measure cytotoxicity (Riss and Moravec 2004; Breznan et al., 2015). Other commonly used assays like agar dilution is a labor-intensive and time-consuming quantitative procedure that is frequently employed to determine MIC values (Elshikh et al., 2016). Additionally, other tests, such as disc diffusion method, which is a qualitative measure of antimicrobial activity for test materials, can only produce only zone of inhibition indicative results. Resazurin assay is therefore viewed as a direct indicator of bacterial metabolic activity that may be used to ascertain the minimum inhibitory concentration (MIC) of substances (Sarker et al., 2007). Secondly, in vitro cytotoxicity can be done by assessing the cell viability and among the several assays, the MTT assay is mostly recognised as a rapid, quantitative and colorimetric assay (Bahuguna et al., 2017). Accordingly, in this study, CDs were subjected to two assays namely, resazurin and MTT to observe its minimum inhibitory concentration and cytotoxicity on E. coli. \r\nMATERIALS AND METHODS\r\nSynthesis of carbon dots. The carbon dots were synthesized from coconut shell through muffle furnace mediated synthesis as outlined by Chauhan et al. 2020 and further subjected to sonication process. The obtained sediment after centrifugation was oven dried at 80C for 12 hours. The dried powder was ground using pestle and mortar and the resultant carbon dots were subjected for further characterization. The carbon dot suspension was homogenized by sonication prior to use in the following experiments.\r\nCharacterization. High resolution transmission electron microscope (HR-TEM) is an imaging mode of the Transmission Electron Microscope used for higher magnification studies of nano-materials at the atomic scale. The size, morphology and uniformity of CDs were measured with the help of HR-TEM (JEOL, Japan) with 200 kV and the image was further developed by using “Image J” programme (Das et al., 2019)\r\nMicrobial culture. Escherichia coli (E. coli) bacterial strain (MTCC 1652) was procured from Microbial Type Culture Collection, Chandigarh, India.\r\nDetermination of Minimum Inhibitory Concentration (MIC) of CDs by Resazurin test\r\nMedium used for assay. Throughout the experiment, Muller Hinton medium (Himedia, India) was used as per the recommendation of NCCLS (National committee for clinical laboratory standard) for susceptibility testing.\r\nPreparation of resazurin solution. The resazurin solution was prepared by dissolving 0.4 % resazurin sodium (Himedia, India) in sterile distilled water. Further, the prepared dye solution was mixed well using a vortex mixer to ensure the dye was well-dissolved.\r\nMIC assessment. The minimum inhibitory concentration (MIC) assay was performed in a 96 well microplate using resazurin dye (Sarker et al., 2007). Initially, 100 μL of Mueller-Hinton broth was added to each well of a 96 well microplate. Subsequently, 100 μL of carbon dots was added by two-fold serial dilution 1000 ppm to 0.48 ppm concentration. Later, 10 μL of E. coli cell suspension was added to each well and then finally 10 μL of resazurin solution was added. The inoculated 96 well microplate was incubated at 37°C for 24h. Antibiotic ciproflaxin was used as positive control and was added to the Mueller-Hinton broth in serial dilution. Each test included a positive control (PC) antibiotic ciproflaxin and sterile control (BLK) (media alone). All tests were performed in triplicate and a negative control (NC) (without CDs) was added as an indicator to determine MIC (Chakansin et al., 2022).\r\nAssessing the cell viability through MTT assay. EZcountTM MTT cell assay kit was used to evaluate the cytotoxicity of CDs. The assay was carried out as per the manufacturer’s instructions with slight modifications. Briefly, E. coli cells at its early log phase (OD600 0.07) was seeded in 96-well plate, then exposed to different concentrations of CDs (1000, 500, 250, 125, 62.5, 31.2, 15.6, 7.8, 3.9, 1.95, 0.97, 0.48 ppm) for 6 hours. The control group was kept as culture medium alone.10μl of MTT reagent (5 mg/ml concentration) was added and incubated for 3 hours and then 100μl of solubilizing agent was added. After 30 minutes, the optical density was measured at 570 nm by a spectrophotometer plate reader (BioTek, USA)\r\nRESULTS AND DISCUSSION\r\nHRTEM Characterization. In the present study, the coconut shell derived carbon dots were characterized using HR-TEM technique at 20 nm and 5nm scale magnification. At lower magnification scale (Fig. 1 a), HRTEM images of carbon dots derived from coconut shell were homogenous and spherical in shape, which is visible as dark spots. Surprisingly, the black dark spots were spotted as slanting lines at higher magnification scale, confirming the presence of carbon dots, and the average size of the carbon dots was observed as 7 nm (Fig. 1 b). The recorded size (less than 10 nm) of synthesized CDs in this study is similar to the reported size (3-5 nm) of carbon dots obtained from coconut shell (Chunduri et al., 2017). \r\nDetermination of MIC of CDs by resazurin test. Carbon dots derived from coconut shell were tested for its cytotoxicity potential against E. coli. Although several cytotoxicity assays have been used to determine the cytotoxicity of nanoparticles, the resazurin dye-based method is one of the most effective and quick methods for visually determining the minimum inhibitory concentration of nanoparticles or any drugs of interest (Chakansin et al., 2022). Resazurin is a redox sensitive, non-fluorescent dye that is used to determine the cell viability. The non-fluorescent blue resazurin dye can be converted to the fluorescent pink resorufin by metabolically active cells. Non-living cells, on the other hand, do not reduce the resazurin, so the dye remains blue. As a result, the visible change in resazurin dye colour can indicate both viable and dead cells (Schmitt et al., 2013). In this work, the carbon dot at varying concentrations ranging from 1000 ppm to 0.48 ppm were tested against the E. coli (MTCC 1652) culture. The E. coli cell suspensions were seeded into the 96 well plate to carry out the MIC assay. After, 24 hours of the carbon dot and bacterial interaction, concentration dependent reduction in the dye intensity was observed. The carbon dots concentration, from 250 ppm to 0.48 ppm, did not significantly inhibit the E. coli cell growth and the resazurin blue dye was changed into pink color, indicating live cells (He et al., 2016), whereas at the higher concentrations of carbon dots at 1000 and 500 ppm, inhibition in the growth of E. coli cells was observed and that the dye retained its color. At end of 24 hours, the MIC of CDs against E. coli was observed as 500 ppm (Fig. 2). The positive control (Ciproflaxin) and negative control (E. coli culture + medium) were used as a reference point to measure the intensity of the dye\'s blue and pink colours. \r\nOur results corroborate with the previous studies which has reported that CDs are potent antibacterial agent. The MIC of CDs synthesized from glucose and polyethyleneimine (PEI) against E. coli was observed as 64 ppm (Dou et al., 2015). Recently, MIC of CDs synthesized from oyster mushroom through hydrothermal carbonization and tested with resazurin assay against pathogenic bacteria viz., S. aureus, K. pneumoniae, and P. aeruginosa was found to be 30 ppm for these three bacterial strains (Boobalanet al., 2020). In contradictory, Chauhan et al. (2020) reported that CDs derived from coconut waste (shell) through hydrothermal method and antibacterial test conducted through agar well diffusion method against E. coli showed no inhibition zone formation for any kind of bacterial species that were studied. \r\nThus, this present study demonstrated that the coconut shell derived CDs had antibacterial property with MIC as 500 ppm against E. coli. The antibacterial effect of CDs might be due to the interaction of its surface functional groups with the cell membrane of the bacteria causing cell lysis. Dou et al. (2015) had reported that CDs were able to absorb onto the cytoplasmic membrane causing cell disruption of E. coli. Furthermore, Boobalan et al. (2021) had explained that antibacterial nature of CDs was due to its interaction with the cytoplasmic fluids inside the bacterial cell resulting in cell lysis including apoptosis. \r\nAssessing the cell viability through MTT assay. To evaluate the effect of synthesized CDs on the viability of E. coli, cell cultures were exposed to CDs at its exponential growth phase and the results of MTT assay showed a significant reduction in cell culture. Being one of the simplest cytotoxicity measurements, this assay utilizes 3-(4,5-dimethylthiazol-2-yl)-2,5-diphenyl tetrazolium bromide (MTT), a water-soluble yellow dye (Grela et al., 2018) that can be reduced to water-insoluble purple formazan crystals by the dehydrogenase enzyme of metabolicallyactive cells. The formazan crystals thus formed can be spectrophotometrically quantified by dissolution in a solvent, and the intensity is directly proportional to the number of metabolically active cells (Tunney et al., 2004). Cell cultures were exposed to CDs at its exponential growth phase and the results of MTT assay showed a significant reduction in cell viability. Looking closely at Fig. 3b, at the concentration of 1000 ppm, the cell viability was found to be 48.34 % and at 0.48 ppm it was 97.90 %.\r\nOur results demonstrated dose-dependent cytotoxicity of CDs with significant decrease in cell viability at higher concentration. These results are comparable with the findings of Alsadooni and Obada (2020) who performed MTT assay and found that graphene quantum dots derived from coconut husk had cytotoxicity effects against MCF 7 cell line recording lower cell viability (20 %) at 1000 ppm in comparison with higher cell viability (70 %) at 7.8 ppm. Recently, Chauhan et al. (2022) conducted MTT assay for coconut husk derived CDs against macrophage cell lines and established that 1 ppm of CDs was able to reduce the growth of tested cells by 32 %. \r\n','K.P. Devadharshini, S.K. Rajkishore, M. Maheswari, Pon. Sathya Moorthy, M. Prasanthrajan, R. Sunitha, R. Abhinayaa and V.S. Reddy Kiran Kalyan (2022). Anti-bacterial Potential of Carbon Dots derived from Coconut Waste. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 14(3): 1120-1124.'),(5438,'136','Response of different Pre-sowing Seed Treatments with Organic on Growth, Yield and Yield Attributing Traits in Baby Corn (Zea mays L.)','Danaboina Siluva Raju, Prashant Kumar Rai and Bineeta Michael Bara','191 Response of different Pre-sowing Seed Treatments with Organic on Growth, Yield and Yield Attributing Traits in Baby Corn _Zea mays L. Danaboina Siluva Raju.pdf','',1,'To study the response of different organic pre-sowing seed treatments on growth, yield and yield attributing traits in Babycorn. The seeds are treated in Panchagavya, Jeevamruth, Beejamruth liquid formulations. The treatments are as follows, T0- Control, T1, T2, T3, T4 - Panchagavya @ 1%, 3%, 5%, 7%, T5, T6, T7, T8 - Jeevamruth @ 1%, 3%, 5%, 7%, T9, T10, T11, T12 – Beejamruth @ 1%, 3%, 5%, 7% respectivelyusing Shine-60 variety (Babycorn). The experiment was laid out in Randomized Block Design with thirteen treatments including control which were replicated thrice. The experiment results revealed that seeds treated with Panchagavya @ 7% gave better than other treatments viz., plant height (145.31 cm), lower days to 50% tasselling (47 DAS number of cobs per plant (2.78 cobs), cob length (10.45 cm), cob weight (with husk) - (31.60 g), cob weight (without husk) - (14.65 g), cob yield per plant (99.48 g), cob yield per plot (1.48 kg), biological yield (0.88 kg) were recorded significantly higher compared to other treatments.','Baby corn, Panchagavya, Jeevamruth, Beejamruth, Seed priming','It is concluded that pre-sowing seed treatments showed greater enhancement of selected organics on growth, yield, yield attributing traits of baby corn. Study revealed that plants respond diversely to pre-sowing seed treatment with panchagavya @ 7% was found desirable for baby corn crop.\r\nFrom the experiments conducted and the observations taken in the filed trails, it is concluded that seed priming with Panchagavya @ 7% was found to be more desirable for producing significantly higher plant height (145.31 cm), lower days to 50% tasseling (47 DAS), number of cobs per plant (2.78 cobs), cob length (10.45 cm), cob weight (with husk) - (31.60 g), cob weight (without husk) - (14.65 g), cob yield per plant (99.48 g), cob yield per plot (1.48 kg), biological yield (0.88 kg). Findings are based on research done in one season in Prayagraj (Allahabad) U.P. further trails may be required for considering it for the recommendation.\r\n','INTRODUCTION\r\nBaby corn, sometimes referred to as baby corn, micro corn, or candle corn, is the young, unfertilized ear of maize (Zea mays L.), which is picked before the silks have fully developed or have just begun to do so. One of the most significant year-round crops in India that serves two purposes is baby corn (Rajanna et al., 2011). Baby corn has significant processing and export potential and is growing in popularity on both domestic and international markets. Growing maize for vegetables is a fascinating recent phenomenon. Right now, China and Thailand produce the most baby corn worldwide (Vimalendran and Wahab 2013). Meghalaya, Western Uttar Pradesh, Haryana, Maharashtra, Karnataka, and Andhra Pradesh are among the Indian states where baby corn is grown. Baby corn is one of the most important dual-purpose crops grown. Currently, Thailand and China are the world leaders in baby corn production. In India; recently baby corn has gained popularity as valuable vegetable in Delhi, Uttar Pradesh, Haryana, Maharashtra, Karnataka, Andhra Pradesh, Rajasthan and Meghalaya. In India, it is grown on 8.49 m ha with the production and productivity of 21.28 mt and 2507 kg ha-1, respectively. Rajasthan state was first in respect of area, wherein this crop occupies 10.50 lakh ha area (12.93 per cent) with production of 19.54 lakh tons and productivity of 18.60 q ha-1. Out of total production, 45 per cent is consumed as a staple food in various forms viz., bread, biscuits, cookies or transformed into corn flakes, soups, fresh-roasted sweets, boiled cobs and vegetables etc. (FAO, 2020). In recent times, baby corn has become popular at regular urban vegetable markets. However, considering the nutritional value of baby corn, it needs to be more widely disseminated in other rural and urban areas. Although baby corn is sold in the domestic market, it is sold unprocessed. This leads to a significant reduction in the quality of the ear. This is mainly due to farmers\' lack of awareness and lack of proper storage facilities and the location of farms far from the market. Therefore, it is necessary to develop the right entrepreneurship and establish appropriate storage and marketing facilities and popularize the cultivation of young maize in peri-urban agriculture. However, this depends on the organization of the market and the support of government sectors Sreethu and Singh (2020). When young corn is grown for later market and export, extra care is needed in handling the cobs and can be harvested within two to three hours of harvest. Otherwise, they will lose their nutritional value. Pre-sowing seed treatment techniques have been used as an alternative approach to overcome the adverse effects of abiotic stress on agricultural production due to their low cost and risk. The pre-planting seed treatment technology is a hydration of control seeds in a solution containing organic or inorganic solutes, followed by a new desiccation, which allows metabolic activities before germination but prevents the emergence of roots. The primer/hardened seed treatments have been shown to improve vigour better than traditional soaking (Priyanka et al., 2020). The primer/hardened seed treatments improve seed vigour by protecting the plasma membrane structure from injury from environmental stress. Pre-soaking seeds with an optimal concentration of phytohormones improves their germination, growth and yield under stressful conditions by increasing the mobilization of nutrient reserves through increased physiological activities and root proliferation (Rameshwar et al., 2011). Soaking seeds in organic solutions can enhance plant growth and germination, and aid disease resistance during the germination period (Kumar et al., 2022). Hence, the present study were planned with objective to determine the effect of pre sowing seed treatment of Panchgavya, Beejamurtha and Jeevamrutha on growth, yield and yield attributing traits of Babycorn.\r\nMATERIAL AND METHODS\r\nThe field experiment was conducted during Rabi season 2021 at the Field Experimentation centre, Department of Genetics and Plant Breeding, Sam Higginbottom University of Agriculture, Technology and Sciences, Prayagraj, U.P. The seeds are treated in Panchagavya, Jeevamruth, Beejamruth liquid formulations. The observations that are undertaken in the study are viz., Field emergence, plant height, days to 50% tasseling, days to 50% silking, days to Maturity, number of leaves per plant, number of cobs per plant, length of cob per plant, cob weight (with husk, without husk), cob yield per plant, cob yield per plot, harvest index in Baby corn crop. The experiments were conducted on Shine-60 variety.\r\nRESULTS AND DISCUSSION\r\nGrowth parameters: A significantly higher field emergence can be obtained in seeds treated with Panchagavya @ 7% (T4) with 95.55% at 10 DAS and T8 with 91.18% is statistically at par with T4 and with 84.50% control recorded the lowest field emergence proved that as panchagavya an organic liqueous formulation seeds when soaked gets the seed coat ruptured. Panchagavya contains many micronutrients, vitamins and essential amino acids, growth promoting factors and beneficial microbes which are provided to the seedling when erupted from the seed ensuring better germination and resistance against soil pathogens and borne diseases the results are acceptance with Loganathan et al. (2014). Seeds treated with Panchagavya (7%) in T4 varied significantly and recorded higher plant height among other treatments with 145.31 cm at 45 DAS and statistically at par values were observed in T8 (136 cm). The lowest was observed in control with 95.25 cm. The growth enzymes present in Panchagavya may have promoted rapid cell division and proliferation due to higher growth characteristics and increased plant height. Beneficial microorganisms from Panchagavya and their presence in the rhizosphere\'s rhizosphere environment affect plant growth. The results are acceptance with Rajanna et al. (2011). As per the data pertained in Table 3 a significantly early days to 50% tasselling was seen in seeds treated with Panchagavya @ 7% with 47 DAS and T8 which is statistically at par with T4 also recorded same as T4 with 47 DAS for 50% tasselling and the highest days to 50 % tasselling can be seen in Beejamrutha @ 1% with 49 DAS. Panchagavya plays an important role in root development and proliferation resulting in better root growth and absorption of nutrients and water from the rhizosphere resulting in early growth and early maturity in Sweet corn. Similar results were found by Rameshwar et al., (2011). Table 3 shows that a nonsignificant data was observed in days to 50% silking in which lower days to 50% silking can obtained in Panchagavya @ 1% with 51.33 DAS. Statistically at par values were observed in Jeevamrutha @ 3% with 51.33 DAS. Higher days to 50% silking is obtained by Panchagavya @ 7% with 53 DAS. This is due to significant translocation and storage of photosynthates from source to sink, which resulted significantly on enhancement of cell division and early growth over other treatments. The results are in accordance with Sreethu and Singh (2020). As per the data shown in Table 3, it can be observed that seeds primed with (T6) Jeevamrutha @ 3% varied significantly and matured earlier with 56.00 DAS and statistically at par values were observed in T4 with 56.67 DAS and highest days to maturity was observed in T7 (Jeevamrutha @ 5%) with 59.33 DAS. The abundant supply of mineral nutrients and organic manure were directly involved in the protoplasmic constituents and accelerate the process of cell division and elongation which in turn resulted in decreased days to maturity. The results are acceptance with Rameshwar et al. (2011). Treatments varied significantly in terms of number of leaves per plant. The seeds treated with Panchagavya @ 7% recorded higher number of leaves per plant with 12 leaves and statistically at par values were obtained by T3 (Panchagavya @ 5%) with same as T4 with 12 leaves. And the lower number of leaves per plant can be seen in control and T1 with 9.00 leaves per plant. The application of panchagavya through seed treatment had enhanced the growth factors there by influencing the leaves per plant through the increased flow of nutrients and increased biochemical activities in the plant. The results are acceptance with Vimalendran and Wahab (2013).\r\nYield parameters: Significantly higher number of Cobs per plant were obtained in (T4) Panchagavya @ 7% with 2.78 cobs and statistically at par values were observed in T3 with 2.65 cobs and lowest number of cobs per plant were observed in control with 1.14 cobs. The data pertaining can be observed in Table 3. Higher number of cobs per plant might have been possible due to more vigour and strength attained by the plant as a result of better photosynthetic activities with sufficient availability of nutrients from the seed treatment during the growth stages The results are acceptance with Sreethu and Singh (2020). As per the data pertained in Table 3 significantly higher cob length was observed in T4 Panchagavya @ 7% with 10.45 cm and statistically at par values were observed in T8 with 10.31 cm and lower cob length was obtained in control with 8.24 cm. Better availability of nutrients during the vegetative, reproductive stages and sufficient availability of micronutrients such as Zn, Cu, Mn present in Panchagavya and other latent micronutrients. The results are acceptance with Loganathan et al. (2014). From the data shown in Table 3 it is clear that Cob weight (with husk) in T4 Panchagavya @ 7% is significantly higher over all other treatments with 31.60 g and statistically at par values were observed in T8 with 31.60 g and lowest was observed in control and T1 with 12.85 g. Due to the increased biochemical activities and the movement of photosynthates and reserve food materials from the leaf to the stem there is a rapid cell division and the seed production increases resulting in the higher production and productivity. Similar results were found by Kumar et al., (2022). As per the data shown in Table 3 it is clear that cob weight (without husk) in T4 Panchagavya @ 7% is significantly higher over all other treatments with 14.65 g and statistically at par values were observed in T8 with 14.65 g and lowest was observed in control and T1 with 3.35 g. From the data shown in Table 3, it is clear that T4 Panchagavya @ 7% had performed better and is significantly higher (99.48 g) over all other treatments and statistically at par values were obtained in T8 with 97.28 g per plant and the lowest cob yield per plant was observed in control with 40.79 g per plant. Due to the increased cell division and higher production of seeds at regular intervals increase the production of growth regulators in the cell. This inturn enhances the growth of new seeds. The results are in acceptance with Kumar et al., (2022). As per the data pertained in Table 3 the seed treatments varied significantly among them. The seeds treated with Panchagavya @7 % was significantly higher among all other treatments with 1.48 kg and T8 was statistically at par with T4 (1.34 kg). The lowest Cob yield per plot was obtained in control with 0.54 kg. Levels of IAA and GA present in Panchagavya may generate stimuli in the plant system and increase the production of growth regulators in the cell line, and the action of growth regulators in the plant line is per sheath. Stimulates the required growth and development of seeds. Significantly higher biological was obtained in T4 @ Panchagavya 7 % with 0.88 kg and statistically at par values were obtained in T8 with 0.81 kg and control with 0.53 kg is the lowest among all other treatments. The data pertained to biological yield (kg) was depicted in Table 3. The increased biochemical activities in the plant and regular rapid cell elongation has increased the plant height and number of leaves per plant. As the IAA and GA in Panchagavya present in enhanced the crop production by increasing the cob yield. There by increasing the biological yield. The results are acceptance with Priyanka et al. (2020). From the data shown in table 3 it is clear that the treatment varied non significantly with lowest harvest index recorded in T11 @ Beejamrutha 5% with 37.15% and statistically at par values were obtained in T4 with 37.21 % and the highest Harvest index was observed in control with 49.53 %.\r\n','Danaboina Siluva Raju, Prashant Kumar Rai and Bineeta Michael Bara (2022). Response of Different Pre-sowing Seed Treatments with Organic on Growth, Yield and Yield Attributing Traits in Baby Corn (Zea mays L.). Biological Forum – An International Journal, 14(3): 1125-1128.'),(5439,'136','Effect of Nitrogen Levels and Weed Management Practices on Yield and Yield Attributes of Drum Seeded rabi Rice','Preethika K., Vani K.P., Madhavi M., Jayasree G. and Saida Naik D.','192 Effect of Nitrogen Levels and Weed Management Practices on Yield and Yield Attributes of Drum Seeded rabi Rice Preethika K.pdf','',1,'With increasing cost of labour and water shortage the farmers are forced to look substitute to present existing system of cultivation from transplanting to drum seeded rice where labour need is reduced by more than 20 % but, weed infestation and low nitrogen use efficiency are the major problems. By keeping in view of above problems a field experiment was conducted at College Farm, Agricultural College, Rajendranagar, Hyderabad during Rabi 2020-21 and 2021-22 to study the effect of nitrogen levels and weed management practices of drum seeded rice. Field trial consisted of 16 treatments having four weed management practices and four nitrogen levels laid out in factorial randomized block design. Out of all weed practices, yield attributes and yield were found higher with pre emergence application of Pretilachlor 6 % + Pyrazosulfuron-ethyl 0.15 % GR 615 g ha-1 as PE fb mechanical weeding at 25 and 50 DAS (W4) followed by Pretilachlor 6 % + Pyrazosulfuron-ethyl 0.15 % GR 615 g ha-1 as PE fb Penoxsulam 1.02 % + Cyhalofop butyl 5.1 % OD 120 g ha-1 as POE (W2). Among nitrogen levels, 125 % RDN (N4) which was statistically comparable with 100 % RDN (N3) had registered higher yield and yield parameters. Interaction of Pretilachlor 6 % + Pyrazosulfuron-ethyl 0.15 % GR 615 g ha-1 as PE fb mechanical weeding at 25 and 50 DAS with 125 % RDN [W4N4] had shown higher yield attributes and yield which was comparable to Pretilachlor 6 % + Pyrazosulfuron-ethyl 0.15 % GR 615 g ha-1 as PE fb Penoxsulam 1.02 % + Cyhalofop butyl 5.1 % OD 120 g ha-1 as POE with 125 % RDN [W2N4].','Drum seeded rice, Yield attributes, Grain and straw yield, Harvest Index','From the two years of study, it can be concluded that, pre emergence application of Pretilachlor 6 % + Pyrazosulfuron-ethyl 0.15 % GR 615 g ha-1 as PE fb mechanical weeding at 25 and 50 DAS [W4] or Pretilachlor 6 % + Pyrazosulfuron-ethyl 0.15 % GR 615 g ha-1 as PE fb Penoxsulam 1.02 % + Cyhalofop butyl 5.1 % OD 120 g ha-1 [W2] with 125 % RDN [N4] helps in attaining higher yield attributes and yield for drum seeded Rabi rice.','INTRODUCTION\r\nMore than half of the world\'s population relies on rice (Oryza sativa L.) as a staple food and source of livelihood, particularly in Asia, where 90 percent of the world\'s rice is produced and consumed. In India rice is grown in 44 M ha with production of 118.43 Mt (Agriculture statistics at glance, 2020). Traditionally rice is grown as an irrigated puddled transplanted crop involving raising nursery and manual transplanting which is quite cumbersome, tedious and needs lot of labour inputs. Contrarily, wet-direct seeded rice through drum seeder is an alternative way of faster and easier planting evading drudgery in raising seedlings and transplanting. It reduces labour need (>25%), increases yield (8-11%) and reduces water requirement (31%) hence making many farmers to shift from transplanting to drum seeded rice (Naseeruddin and Subramanyam 2013).\r\nProduction potentiality of rice can be fully exploited with suitable nitrogen levels and weed management practices. Weeds are major biotic constraints for sustainability of drum-seeded rice. Any delay in weeding leads to uncontrolled weeds in drum seeded rice, reducing yield by 53% (Raghavendra et al., 2015). Hand weeding is easy and environment friendly but tedious, labour intensive and unavailable at peak period. Similarity between grassy weeds and rice seedlings make hand weeding difficult at early stages of growth. Therefore, use of selective herbicides controls weeds from beginning, giving good crop growth and competitive superiority over weeds. But, continuous use of same herbicides makes weed flora as persistent perennials, builds up herbicide resistance and herbicide residues in soil and consumable products. This can be overcome by use of herbicide mixtures with broad spectrum herbicidal action or by integrated weed management practices for effective and economical weed control. \r\nNitrogen is important and most expansively used nutrient in rice where 60 % of loss occurs under field conditions due to volatilization, denitrification, leaching, runoff etc. Many farmers use low/high amount of nitrogen which are detrimental to crop growth and development. Many studies have reflected that rice yields increase with increasing N levels up to a particular range (Jehangir et al., 2021). However, decrease in yield at higher rates of nitrogen has also been witnessed in many studies. With increasing cost of N fertilizer, an efficient N management strategy for wet seeded rice is highly imperative. \r\nManagement of weeds along with fertilizers decreases crop-weed competition and increase net income by reducing losses due to weeds, increasing fertilizer use efficiency and grain yield. Hence, it is essential to identify an effective method of controlling weeds with appropriate level of nitrogen fertilizer especially for the drum seeder method where not much research information is available in the literature. Hence present experiment was undertaken to identify the most suitable combination of nitrogen level and weed management for better weed control and higher yield of drum seeded rice. \r\nMATERIAL AND METHODS\r\nDuring Rabi 2020-21 and 2021-22 at College farm, Agriculture College, Rajendranagar an experiment was taken on loamy sand soil, which is slightly alkaline in reaction and non-saline, with low in organic carbon and available N, medium in phosphorus and high in potassium. The experiment treatments consists of four weed management practices as Factor I (F1) viz., W1: Unweeded (control), W2: Pretilachlor 6 % + Pyrazosulfuron-ethyl 0.15 % GR 615 g ha-1 as PE fb Penoxsulam 1.02 % + Cyhalofop butyl 5.1 % OD 120 g ha-1 as POE, W3: Pyrazosulfuron-ethyl 70 % WDG 21 g ha-1 as PE fb Penoxsulam 1.02 % + Cyhalofop butyl 5.1 % OD 120 g ha-1 as POE, W4: Pretilachlor 6 % + Pyrazosulfuron-ethyl 0.15 % GR 615 g ha-1 as PE fb mechanical weeding at 25 and 50 DAS and four nitrogen levels as Factor II (F2) viz., N1-No nitrogen (control), N2-75 % RDN (112.5 kg N ha-1), N3-100 % RDN (150 kg N ha-1), N4-125 % RDN (187.5 kg N ha-1) replicated thrice in FRBD design.\r\nJGL-24423 variety was used for sowing with drum seeder having spacing of 20 × 8-10 cm after soaking in water for 24 hrs and incubating for 48 hrs. Recommended full dose of P2O5 @ 60 kg ha-1 and half of K2O @ 20 kg ha-1 was applied basally; remaining half dose of K2O @ 20 kg ha-1 was applied at panicle initiation stage. Nitrogen was incorporated in three equal splits at sowing time, tillering and panicle initiation stages. At 3DAS, pre-emergence and at 2-3 leaf stage of weeds, post emergence herbicides were applied, while mechanical weeding was done at 25 and 50 DAS with conoweeder. The number productive tillers from all the five labelled hills were counted and averaged which was multiplied by number of hills in one square meter area and expressed as productive tillers m-2. Ten panicles were selected randomly from the net plot area for recording the panicle length, panicle weight, total and filled grains. Test weight was measured by drawing dried seed samples randomly from each treatment plot and 1000 grains were counted and weighed. Grain and straw yields were estimated from net plot excluding border plants in the plot. Data was analyzed statistically applying analysis of variance technique for FRBD design. The significance was tested by ‘F’ test (Gomez and Gomez 1984).\r\nRESULTS AND DISCUSSION\r\nYield attributes. All yield attributes were significantly influenced by nitrogen levels and weed management practices but treatmental interaction was found non-significant except for total and filled grains panicle-1 in both the years presented in Table 1. \r\nMaximum productive tillers m-2, panicle length (cm), panicle weight (g), test weight (g), Number of total and filled grains panicle-1were found higher with Pretilachlor 6 % + Pyrazosulfuron-ethyl 0.15 % GR 615 g ha-1 as PE fb mechanical weeding at 25 and 50 DAS (W4) (268.8, 22.7, 3.2, 22.52, 117.6 and 104.7) and (280.1, 23.8, 3.57, 22.64, 130.1 and 116.2) during 2020-21 and 2021-22followed by Pretilachlor 6 % + Pyrazosulfuron-ethyl 0.15 % GR 615 g ha-1 as PE fb Penoxsulam 1.02 % + Cyhalofop butyl 5.1 % OD 120 g ha-1 as POE[W2] (260.8, 22.4, 3.08, 22.45, 112.7 and 100.4) and (271.7, 23.4, 3.47, 22.51, 125.4 and 111.4). While lower values were recorded with unweeded [W1] (191.3, 19.1, 2.29, 21.7, 59.6 and 43.8) and (203.9, 20.5, 2.5, 21.79, 72.6 and 55.3) during two years\r\nW4 and W2 produced more number of yield attributes than unweeded control, which might be due to weed free conditions at early stage, without any crop weed competition thus leading to vigorous seedling growth and sustained nutrient availability with optimum NPK uptake. Similar results were stated by Kumar et al. (2018); Kokilam et al. (2020).\r\nAmong nitrogen levels, 125% RDN [N4] produced higher effective tillers m-2, panicle length (cm), panicle weight (g), test weight (g), No. of total and filled grains panicle-1 (270.2, 22.9, 3.23, 22.55,119.1 and 105.8) and (281.5, 24.1, 3.61, 22.67, 131.8 and 116.3) during both the years which was on par with 100 % RDN [N3] (261.5, 22.4, 3.12 and 22.44) and (272.7, 23.5, 3.47 and 22.47) whereas lowest was recorded with no nitrogen [N1] (191.3, 19.1, 2.29, 21.7, 112.7 and 100.4) and (203.9, 20.5, 2.5, 21.79, 125.4 and 111.4) in 2020 and 2021.\r\nIncrease in nitrogen level might have increased nutrient availability to the crop which converted larger proportion of tillers in to productive tillers due to better translocation of photosynthates and there by producing higher number of panicles m-2, panicle length and grain development. Similar findings were reported by Mude et al. (2021).\r\nAmong the interaction treatment combinations, during both the years (Table 2 and 3), it was found that Pretilachlor 6 % + Pyrazosulfuron-ethyl 0.15 % GR 615 g ha-1 as PE fb mechanical weeding at 25 and 50 DAS coupled with 125 % RDN [W4N4] resulted in higher number of total and filled grains (143.7 and 156.2) and (130.3 and 141.3) followed by combination of Pretilachlor 6 % + Pyrazosulfuron-ethyl 0.15 % GR 615 g ha-1 as PE fb Penoxsulam 1.02 % + Cyhalofop butyl 5.1 % OD 120 g ha-1 as POE with 125 % RDN [W2N4] (136.3 and 148.8) and (125 and 135) and lowest number was recorded in unweeded with no nitrogen [W1N1] (37.3 and 50.3) and (22 and 32.7). This might be due to frequent elimination of weeds that resulted in reduced weed competition, better nutrient availability to crop contributed to higher number of filled grains. \r\nThese results are similar to those of Ajmal (2020).\r\nGrain yield (kg ha-1). During two years of field trial, weed management practices and nitrogen levels had pronounced and significant effect on grain yield (Table 4). Among weed control treatments, significantly higher grain yield was obtained with Pretilachlor 6 % + Pyrazosulfuron-ethyl 0.15 % GR 615 g ha-1 as PE fb mechanical weeding at 25 and 50 DAS [W4] (5830 and 6024 kg ha-1) significantly on par with Pretilachlor 6 % + Pyrazosulfuron-ethyl 0.15 % GR 615 g ha-1 as PE fb Penoxsulam 1.02 % + Cyhalofop butyl 5.1 % OD 120 g ha-1 as POE [W2] (5606 and 5773 kg ha-1). While lowest grain yield was observed with unweeded [W1] (2178 and 2326 kg ha-1) during both the years.\r\nThe higher grain yield obtained under W4 and W2 might be due to their significant control over a broad spectrum of weeds, offering minimum crop-weed competition leading to better growth, development and higher yield of crop. Severe crop weed competition in unweeded control plots due to uncontrolled growth of weeds resulted in the lowest grain yield. These results were in accordance with Arunbabu and Jena (2018); Yadav et al. (2018); Anay et al. (2021).\r\nAmong nitrogen levels, 125 % RDN [N4] yielded highest grain yield (6065 and 6256 kg ha-1) which was comparable with 100 % RDN [N3] (5672 and 5857 kg ha-1) and lowest was yielded by no nitrogen [N1] (2125 and 2275 kg ha-1) during study period. The grain yield increased with increasing nitrogen level might be due to higher growth and yield attributes because of efficient translocation of photosynthates from source to sink. Results are in line with Ajmal (2020).\r\nAmong the interaction treatment combinations, Pretilachlor 6 % + Pyrazosulfuron-ethyl 0.15 % GR 615 g ha-1 as PE fb mechanical weeding at 25 and 50 DAS with 125 % RDN [W4N4] resulted in higher yield of 7608 and 7685 kg ha-1 followed by Pretilachlor 6 % + Pyrazosulfuron-ethyl 0.15 % GR 615 g ha-1 as PE fb Penoxsulam 1.02 % + Cyhalofop butyl 5.1 % OD 120 g ha-1 as POE with 125 % RDN [W2N4] (7312 and 7522 kg ha-1) and lowest grain yield was recorded in unweeded with no nitrogen [W1N1] (1100 and 1064 kg ha-1) during both the years.\r\nStraw yield (kg ha-1). Effect of nitrogen levels and weed management practices on straw yield had significant effect but their interaction was found to be non significant (Table 5). Among weed treatments, Pretilachlor 6 % + Pyrazosulfuron-ethyl 0.15 % GR 615 g ha-1 as PE fb mechanical weeding at 25 and 50 DAS (W4) had shown higher straw yield of 7807 and 8097 kg ha-1, while lowest straw yield was observed with unweeded [W1] (4218 and 4426 kg ha-1) during both the years of study. Maintenance of weed free environment at critical stages of crop growth, led to complete utilization of nutrients and other resources by crop plants, resulting in vigorous growth and greater dry matter production by crop. The results are in accordance to the findings of Nayak (2014).\r\nDuring both years, 125 % RDN (N4) has recorded highest straw yield of (8094 and 8375 kg ha-1) and lowest was yielded by control [N1] (4101 and 4282 kg ha-1). Higher straw yield might be due to increased plant height, profuse tillering and higher dry matter production at higher nitrogen levels. The results are in agreement with Malik et al. (2014); Ali et al. (2015).\r\nHarvest Index (%). Harvest Index was significantly influenced by nitrogen levels and weed management practices (Table 5). Among weed treatments, Pretilachlor 6 % + Pyrazosulfuron-ethyl 0.15 % GR 615 g ha-1 as PE fb mechanical weeding at 25 and 50 DAS [W4] had recorded highest harvest index of 41.83 and 41.70 % while lowest value was observed in unweeded [W1] (33.24 and 33.43 %) during both the years of study. Good control of weed population reduced competition for nutrients, space and water resulting in higher dry matter accumulation, grain yield and thus harvest index.\r\nAmong nitrogen levels, 125 % RDN [N4] has recorded highest harvest index (41.96 and 42.00 %) and lowest was recorded in control treatment (33.32 and 33.86 %) during both years. The increase in harvest index with increasing levels of nitrogen might be due to better translocation of assimilates from shoot to grain. Results are in accordance with Ajmal (2020).\r\n','Preethika K., Vani K.P., Madhavi M., Jayasree G. and Saida Naik D. (2022). Effect of Nitrogen Levels and Weed Management Practices on Yield and Yield Attributes of Drum Seeded rabi Rice. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 14(3): 1129-1134.'),(5440,'136','Soil Fertility Status of Forage Growing Soils of Nalgonda District, Telangana','R. Hima Bindu, T. Sukruth Kumar, T. Anjaiah, R.V.T. Balazzii Naaiik and T. Shashikala','193 Soil Fertility Status of Forage Growing Soils of Nalgonda District, Telangana R. Hima bindu.pdf','',1,'In Telangana 4,58,892 acres of land is under fodder crops. In which 4,54,874 acres under annual fodders and 4,018 acres under perennial fodders. In this approximately 20 % of the state forage crop cultivating area is observed in erstwhile Nalgonda district (92,230 acres) with high livestock population. Till now fertility status studies on forage growing soils were limited. So it is highly essential to study the fertility status of forage growing soils and the quality of fodder in Nalgonda district. Livestock are an important asset and livelihood option for poor people in rain fed areas. Fodder crops are the plant species that are cultivated and harvested for feeding the animals in the form of forage, silage and hay. A survey was carried out in forage growing soils of Nalgonda district of Telangana state. Seventy five representative surface soil samples (0-15 cm) were collected and analysed for their salient characteristics viz., pH, EC, OC, free CaCO3, available N, P2O5, K2O and micronutrients (Zn, Fe, Cu and Mn). Soil fertility maps were prepared for macronutrients. Results revealed that, soil pH ranged from 5.68 to 8.34. The soils were non-saline to slightly saline (0.06 to 1.12 dSm-1). The organic carbon ranged from 0.85 to 12.03 g ka-1. Free Calcium Carbonate content ranged from 1.22 to 22.41per cent. With regard to available nutrients, the values varied from 104.0 to 230.2 kg N ha-1 for nitrogen, 8.0 to 92.6 kg P2O5ha-1 for phosphorus, 91.9 to 399.6 kg K2O ha-1 for potassium. Among the micronutrients 14.6 and 10.6 percent soils were deficient in available zinc and iron. Deficiency of Cu and Mn were negligible.','N, P2O5, K2O, Zn, Fe, Cu and Mn','1. The soils of Nalgonda district are alkaline in reaction and very little were acidic. 68 % soils are low in organic carbon and only 6.6 % soils are high in Organic carbon content.\r\n2. Electrical conductivity of soils in Nalgonda district ranged from 0.06-1.12 dSm-1 and about 38.6 % soils were high in calcium carbonate content.\r\n3. Nitrogen content were low in 100 % samples collected from Nalgonda district The available N ranged from 104.0 to 230.2 kg N ha-1.\r\n4. The available phosphorus content ranged from 8.0 to 92.6 kg P2O5ha-1.\r\n38.6 % of samples collected in the district has shown lower phosphorous content and 32.0 % samples are medium in phosphorous in content. It shows 29.4 % of soils in the district were medium to high in phosphorous level.\r\n5. The available potassium content of the soils varied from 91.9 to 399.6 kg K2O ha-1.92% samples in the district are medium to high in potassium content.\r\n6. In Nalgonda district 14.6 % samples are deficient in Zinc nutrient, while the other micro nutrient like cu and Mn are sufficient in soils and Fe is deficient in 10.6 % soils.\r\n7. Deficiency levels in micro nutrient content in Nalgonda district follows Zn>Fe>Mn>Cu.\r\n','INTRODUCTION\r\nIn India the total area under cultivated fodders is 8.3 million ha on individual crop basis. Sorghum amongst the kharif crops (2.6 million ha) and Berseem (Egyptian clover) amongst the rabi crops (1.9 million ha) occupy about 54% of the total cultivated fodder cropped area. Lucerne (Alfa alfa) occupies highest productivity (60-130 tonnes ha-1).\r\nIn Telangana, total area under fodder crops cultivation is 4,58,893 acres during the year 2020-21(GOI, 2021) Telangana state has very rich livestock resources. The total livestock population of the State is 264.5 lakhs, in which 48.8 lakh buffaloes, 128.3 lakh sheep and 45.7 lakh goats. As per the 20th livestock census (2017) which is 4.6% over the year 2012.\r\nGenerally, fodder crops were grown in marginal to medium fertile soils. Quality of fodder (Protein and Fibre content) depends on the fertility of soils. Fertile soils produce high quality fodder. Feeding the quality green fodder to dairy animals yields high milk and meat production.\r\n In Telangana approximate 20% of the state area is under fodder crops (92,230 acres) observed in erstwhile Nalgonda district with high livestock population (GOI, 2021). So it is highly essential to study the fertility status of the fodder growing soils of Nalgonda district. This paper deals with nutrient status (Physico-chemical and chemical properties) of forage growing soils of Nalgonda district.\r\nMATERIAL AND METHODS \r\nStudy Area and Sample Collection. The soil survey was carried out representing the forage growing soils of the Nalgonda district (Fig. 1). A total of Seventy five soil samples (0-15 cm depth) were collected.\r\nThe soil samples were collected using GPS (Global Positioning System) and the longitude and latitude points of a particular location were recorded (Fig. 2). The soil fertility maps for N, P2O5 and K2O were prepared with the help of Q.GIS.3.22.9 software using GPS points. The soil samples were packed and labelled properly in polythene bags and brought to the laboratory for further analysis.\r\nLaboratory Analysis. All the soil samples were air dried, grounded and passed through 2 mm sieve for chemical analysis. The soils were analysed for salient characteristics viz., pH, EC, OC and free CaCO3 & available nutrients (N, P2O5, K2O, Zn, Fe, Cu and Mn) following standard procedures. After analysis for available nutrient status, the soils were categorised as low, medium and high for N, P2O5 and K2O. The available sulphur and micronutrients (Zn, Fe, Cu and Mn) were rated as deficient and sufficient based on the critical levels as given by Tandon (2005).\r\nRESULTS AND DISCUSSION \r\nPhysico-chemical Characteristics. Soil reaction (pH) of the surface soils ranged from 5.68 to 8.34 indicating that, these soils are slightly acidic to alkaline in reaction. The observations on the soil pH revealed that, 2.66 percent of soils were slightly acidic (<6.5) in nature, 52 per cent samples are neutral (6.5-7.5) and 45.34 percent samples are alkaline (>7.5) in nature.\r\nElectrical conductivity (EC) of surface soils ranged from 0.06 to 1.12 dSm-1 indicating that, these soils were non-saline to slightly saline in nature. The observations on EC revealed that, 96% of samples fall under the range of 0 to 1 dS m-1 remaining 4% samples fall under the range of 1 to 2 dS m-1.\r\nWith regard to the status of organic carbon (g kg-1) the values found to vary from 0.85 to 12.03 g kg-1. The observations on organic carbon revealed that, 68 % of soil samples were low (<5.0 g kg-1), 25.33% of soils were medium (5.0-7.5g kg-1) and 6.66% (>7.5g kg-1) of soils were high in organic carbon. The reason for low organic carbon content in most of the soils may be attributed to the prevalence of semi-arid condition, where the degradation of organic matter occurs at a faster rate coupled with little or no addition of organic manures and lower vegetation on the fields, there by leaving less chances of accumulation of organic carbon in the soils. Intensive cropping is also one of the reasons for low organic carbon content in soils. The similar results were also reported by Nalina et al. (2016).\r\nFree Calcium Carbonate content (%) the values found to vary from 1.22 to 22.41per cent. About 38.6 per cent samples are calcareous in nature..The calcareous nature of soils may be due to semi-arid conditions because of relatively little leaching. Similar results were reported by Brady and Weil (1999); Brindha and Elango (2014).\r\nAvailable Nutrients. The available nitrogen content of the soils ranged from 104.0 to 230.2 kg ha-1 (Table 1 and depicted in Fig. 3). Out of the 100 samples analysed, all the soil samples found to have low (<280.0 kg N ha-1) available nitrogen. From the survey data, previous history of the crops grown was taken which indicated that cotton is one of the major commercial crops grown in Nalgonda district. As cotton is a heavy nitrogen feeder which may leads to nitrogen deficiency. Another reason may be due to high temperature and low organic matter content which fasten decomposition process as a result removal of organic matter can be observed which leads to N deficiency (Karthikeyan et al., 2014).\r\nThe available phosphorus content of the soils varied extremely from one point to another point. The variation exists in between 8.0 to 92.6 kg P2O5 ha-1 (Table 1 and depicted in Fig. 4). The soils found to have low to very high available phosphorus. Among the soils analysed, 38.6, 32.0 and 29.4 per cent of soils registered low (<22.9 kg P2O5 ha-1), medium (22.9 to 56.3 kg P2O5 ha-1) and high available phosphorous (>56.3 kg P2O5 ha-1), respectively. This may be due to continuous application of DAP to crops without soil testing might have resulted in phosphorus build up and led medium to high available phosphorus status in these soils (Sathish et al., 2018). Another reason for higher P in surface soils possibly might be due to P confinement to the rhizosphere due to its immobile nature in soils (Rajeshwar and Mani 2014).\r\nThe available potassium content of the soils varied from 91.9 to 399.6 kg K2O ha-1 (Table 1 and depicted in Fig. 5). In analysed samples, about 8% samples recorded lower (<129.6 kg K2O ha-1) potassium content, 32% samples recorded medium (129.6-336) kg K2O ha-1) potassium content and 60% of soils recorded high (>336 kg K2O ha-1) available potassium content. These soils may able to maintain a sufficient or even high level of exchangeable K and provide a good supply of K to plants for many years. High available K status in surface soils could be attributed to release of labile-K from organic residues, application of K fertilizers and upward translocation of K from lower depths along with capillary rise of ground water. Similar results were reported by Pal and Mukhopadyay (1992).\r\nNalgonda district samples are analysed for micronutrients shown variation in the content from Soil to Soil. Zinc content which is extracted by using DTPA solution varied from 0.2 mg kg-1 to 4.2 mg kg-1 (Table 2). About 14.6 % samples are deficient in zinc content (<0.6 mg kg-1) and 85.4 % samples are sufficient in zinc content (>0.6 mg kg-1). Lower content of zinc was due to high pH values which have resulted in the formation of insoluble compounds of zinc (Tandon, 1995).\r\nSoil samples analysed for Iron content varied from 0.5 mg kg-1 to 18.3 mg kg-1 (Table 2). About 10.66% samples are deficient in iron content (<4.5 mg kg-1) and 89.34 % samples are sufficient in iron content (>4.5 mg kg-1). Since, most of the soils are neutral to alkaline, low in organic carbon, there is a possibility of deficiency of Zn and Fe in these soils. Similar results were observed by Patil et al. (2016).\r\nSoil manganese content extracted using DTPA solution varied from 0.2 mg kg-1 to 25.4 mg kg-1 (Table 2). About 4 % samples were deficient in manganese content (<1.0mg kg-1) and 84% samples were sufficient in manganese content (>1.0 mg kg-1). In general, calcium carbonate decreased the availabilities of micronutrients owing to their insoluble hydroxides at higher pH (Sahoo et al., 1995).\r\nAvailable copper deficiency is negligible (Table 2) in all the soils collected from forage growing areas of Nalgonda district. Similar results were also reported by Surendra Babu et al. (2019).\r\nSoil Fertility maps of Nalgonda district.\r\n','R. Hima Bindu, T. Sukruth Kumar, T. Anjaiah, RVT. Balazzii Naaiik and T. Shashikala (2022). Soil Fertility Status of Forage Growing Soils of Nalgonda District, Telangana. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 14(3): 1135-1142.'),(5441,'136','Development of Mahua (Madhuca longifolia) Flower enriched Wheat based Laddoo','Parmar Rohan, Dutta Samit and P. Srilatha','194 Development of Mahua _Madhuca longifolia_ Flower enriched Wheat based Laddoo Parmar Rohan.pdf','',1,'Pregnancy and lactation are the two crucial stages in women’s life. A satisfactory diet during pregnancy will ensure a good store of nutrients or satisfactory breast feeding. Hence the present research study entitled “Development of mahua (Madhuca longifolia) flower enriched Wheat based Laddoo” was taken with an idea to prepare and standardize mahua flower enriched wheat based nutritious Laddoo. Mahua flower, wheat and finger millet were selected as major ingredients. Mahua flower was selected as it was found to be rich in carbohydrates, protein, fat, calcium, iron and phosphorus whereas the cereals/millets contain certain important minerals. Composite rotatable experimental design (CRD) was adopted to standardize the formulation of Laddoo. Sensory evaluation of developed laddoo was done using 9-point hedonic scale, the maximum score of color, taste, aroma, body and texture and overall acceptability were found to be 7.99, 7.99, 7.88, 7.77 and 7.77 respectively. It was observed that there was significant effect of interactions among ingredients on organoleptic parameters. The physico chemical analysis of final product showed moisture, protein, fat, crude fibre, ash and carbohydrate were 10.36, 13.74, 12.09, 3.09, 2.08 and 46.36 percent respectively whereas vitamin C, calcium, iron and phosphorus content of Laddoo were 1.33, 132.56, 4.05 and 188.05 mg/100 g respectively, which cater the elevated nutritional demand of lactation period. Apart from lactating women the developed laddoo is also suitable to meet the dietary needs of growing children.','Lactating Women, Laddoo, Mahua, Nutri-cereals, Wheat, Finger millet','The present investigation resulted in the development of a mahua flower enriched nutria-cereals based galactogoue product with highly acceptable quality attributes. In view of the findings of the present study, it may be concluded that the Wheat based Laddoo developed under the study showed a nutritional profile which is highly suitable for lactating women. Also in terms of organoleptic quality, the product was found to be highly acceptable. It was also observed that microbiological quality of freshly prepared Wheat based Laddoo was satisfactory. The developed mahua flower enriched Wheat based Laddoo possessed ample amount of minerals. If four servings of the product are given in a day, a pregnant/lactating women can get 19-20 per cent protein, 16-18 per cent fat, 12-21 per cent Iron, 68-71 per cent Calcium and 10-12 per cent Phosphorus of her daily recommended requirements by ICMR (2009).','INTRODUCTION\r\nPregnant and lactating women are responsible for maintaining the healthy status of both fetus and infant, thus an adequate diet is needed during both the period in order to produce milk through which not only she feed the infant but also nourish the growing fetus (Ramadas et al., 2011). These women require the additional amount of nutrients than ordinary women. The pregnant and lactating women requires 2580 Kcal per day, lactating women of 0 to 6 months needs 2830 Kcal per day while lactating women of 6 to 12 months needs 2750 Kcal per day. Pregnant women need 78 g of protein per day while lactating women of 0 to 6 months and lactating women of 6 to 12 months require 74 g per day and 68 g per day of protein respectively. However, 30 g of fat per day, 1200 mg of calcium per day and 35 mg of iron per day is needed in both the periods (ICMR, 2011). \r\nGalactogogue foods are those that helps to produce more milk as they are enriched with all the necessary nutrients for both the mother and fetus or infant and hence the galactogogue food is given to these women during the time of pregnancy and lactation to fulfill the requirement of all the important nutrients (Ramadas et al., 2011).\r\nNow a days aromatic and medicinal plants are essential not only for producing medicine but also as a food itself (Kathuria and Singh 2015). One of the medicinal plants mahua (Madhuca longifolia) belongs to sapotaceae family which has all the essential nutrients important for women in pregnancy and lactating stage (Sinha et al., 2017). \r\nMahua has significant amounts of calcium, phosphorus, and vitamins A and C. Mahua seeds are loaded with not just energy giving carbohydrates, but also essential fatty acids like linoleic and arachidonic. Mahua is said to help increase milk production and secretion in lactating mothers (Mishra and Padhan 2013). Mahua flowers contains Vitamin-C which is responsible for their antioxidant activity (Indu and Annika 2014). \r\nThe flowers of mahua are produced between the months of March and May and serve as a source of income for weaker sections of the society (Ranjana et al., 2018). They are manually collected from the ground and are dried under sun before storage. As dried flowers are hygroscopic in nature, they are easily spoiled by absorbing moisture from the atmosphere. Mahua flowers are either consumed fresh, cooked or fried in different parts of the country (Bakhara et al., 2016).\r\nMost popular use of mahua is in liquor making, due to its high sugar content. Mahua flower is not only used in preparation of liquor but can also utilized as a food ingredient for preparation of biscuit, cake, laddoo, candy, bar, jam jelly, sauces and many more (Sinha et al., 2017).\r\n Apart from these medicinal plants, cereals and millets are said to be good source of nutrients such cereal and millet include wheat and finger millet respectively. \r\nThe main staple cereal crop in India is wheat (Triticum spp.). Wheat provides nearly 346 kcal per 100 g of energy. It contains 71.2 per cent of carbohydrate, 11.8 per cent of protein, 1.5 per cent of fat, 1.5 per cent of minerals and considerable proportions of vitamins (thiamine and vitamin B) (Gopalan et al., 2009). As it provides good amount of calories and protein, it is an essential cereal for lactating women (Kumar et al., 2011). \r\nFinger millet has been perceived as a potential “super cereal” by the United States National Academies being one of the most nutritious among all major cereals (National Research Council, 1996). In India it is also known as ragi or madua (Kumar et al., 2016; Agrawal et al., 2015). It is a richest source of macro and micro minerals (Chethan and Malleshi 2007). It provides 72 per cent of carbohydrates, 7.3 per cent of protein, 1.3 per cent of fat, good amount 3.6 per cent of crude fibre (Gopalan et al., 2009). Finger millet is also loaded with good amount of calcium (344 mg/100 g).\r\nEpidemiological studies have demonstrated that regular consumption of whole grain cereals and their products can protect against the risk of cardiovascular diseases, type II diabetes, gastrointestinal cancers and a range of other disorders (Mckeown, 2002). \r\nLaddoo is a round in shaped renowned sweet in India. Wheat based Laddoo is made up of mixes of different flours and functional food ingredient. ‘Mahua’ is a galactogogue ingredient, but there is less information available about Mahua as a food (Bakhara et al., 2016), hence research work has to be carried out to make use of essential nutrients of Mahua for a healthy society.\r\nKeeping in view, the nutritional profile of mahua flower, wheat and finger millet, an attempt has been made in the current research project to develop a mahua (Madhuca longifolia) flower enriched Wheat based Laddoo for lactating women with the following objectives.\r\n1. To evaluate compositional and nutritional characteristics of raw ingredients namely germinated wheat and finger millet flour, and dry mahua flower.\r\n2. To standardize formulation of mahua flower enriched Wheat based Laddoo.\r\n3. To analyse the physico-chemical, microbiological, and nutritional qualities of the standardized product. \r\nMATERIALS AND METHODS\r\nThe present research study was conducted at College of Food Processing Technology and Bio Energy.\r\nMaterials. In this study laddoo was made using raw materials such as dried mahua flower, wheat flour and finger millet flour as major ingredients and minor ingredients like sugar and ghee.\r\nCollection of Raw Materials. The raw ingredients such as Mahua flowers were procured from the local market of Chhota Udaipur, Gujarat, India. They were cleaned, dried and powdered by using a grinder and stored in an air tight container. The other ingredients such as wheat, finger millet, sugar and ghee were procured from local market. Wheat and finger millet were cleaned, soaked, germinated, dried, roasted and milled separately. Sugar was grounded and sieved to desired particle size.\r\nChemicals & Glassware. The chemicals used for the analysis were of analytical grade and procured from Molychem, Mumbai – 400002.\r\nMethods\r\nFormulation of Laddoo. The independent and dependent variables with their levels in percent shows in below table.\r\nAbove table illustrates the six treatments with their respective per cent of ingredients. For the preparation of Laddoo, the amount of germinated and dried wheat flour (40 per cent) & germinated and dried finger millet flour (15 per cent) were taken as Patel (2016) standardized for development of Laddoo and the amount of ghee was 15 per cent whereas the amount of incorporation of dried mahua flower and sugar were fluctuated in order to make 100 g of recipe as shown in above Table 2.\r\nSensory Score Card- Mahua Flower Enriched Wheat Based Laddoo. With the help of professional panelists, sensory evaluation of product was carried out. The sensory parameters were color & appearance, taste, aroma, consistency and overall acceptability which were scored on the basis of 9-point hedonic scale, where 9- like extremely, 8- like very much, 7- like moderately, 6- like slightly, 5- neither like nor dislike, 4- dislike slightly, 3-dislike moderately, 2- dislike very much and 1- dislike extremely.\r\nCompositional Attributes Analysis. Proximate analysis of raw ingredient samples and mahua flower enriched nutria-cereals based Laddoo was done by using protocols as described and prescribed by AACC (AACC 2000) and AOAC (AOAC 2001).\r\nVitamins and minerals analysis of raw ingredient samples and Mahua flower enriched nutria-cereals based Laddoo was done by using protocols as per the standard protocols of Ranganna (1986).\r\nMicrobiological analysis of Laddoo samples were analyzed for the Standard Plate Count (SPC), Coliform count and Yeast and Mold count (YMC) as per the standard procedure given by Ranganna, (1986).\r\nAnalytical Tool. The data in the present investigation were subjected to analysis of variance (ANOVA) technique and thus analyzed according to one factorial completely randomized design.\r\nRESULT AND DISCUSSION\r\nStandardized Formulation of Mahua Flower Enriched Wheat Based Laddoo. The experiments for optimization of Wheat based Laddoo from dried mahua flower, germinated and dried wheat flour and finger millet flour were conducted as per the CCRD experimental design. The sensory score was based on 9-point hedonic scale. Numerical optimization technique of the software Design Expert 10.0.3 was used for simultaneous standardized composition for development of Wheat based Laddoo. During the standardization process, specific constraints were applied on the variables. Attributes to be considered were color and appearance, taste, aroma, body and texture and overall acceptability and which were scored on 9point scale. \r\nFor standardization of formulation of mahua flower enriched Wheat based Laddoo, one factor (at six levels of each factor) second order composite rotatable experimental design (CRD) was adopted. The design suggested 6 different trials (runs) with different proportion of independent factors. The independent factors were the level of dried mahua flower (A) and sugar (B). While dependent factors were the level of germinated and dried wheat and finger millet flour and ghee. Quadratic model fitted well to the color, flavor, texture, taste and overall acceptability.\r\nFrom the results obtained through various analytical data and using the suitable combination of dried mahua flower and sugar were calculated. As a result, T3 which has a 9 per cent dried mahua flower and 21 per cent sugar were selected for the development of the mahua flower enriched Wheat based Laddoo.\r\nIt can be observed from Table 3 that T3 scored best. It got highest desirabilty of 0.791 among all six treatments with scores of 7.66 for color and apperance, 7.66 for taste, 7.22 for aroma, 7.58 for body and texture and 7.58 for overall acceptabilty. Thus the product had a good acceptability and was finalized.\r\nProfiling of Mahua Flower Enriched Wheat Based Laddoo. The final mahua flower enriched Wheat based Laddoo was prepared using optimized parameters. The product, so prepared was tested for physico-chemical properties, vitamin and mineral profiling and microbiological studies and the results are presented in Table 4, 5 and 6 respectively. \r\nPhysico-Chemical Analysis of Mahua Flower Enriched Wheat Based Laddoo. The results of physico-chemical properties of Wheat based Laddoo are presented in Table 4. The Table shows that the moisture, protein, fat, carbohydrates, ash and crude fiber were 10.36, 13.74, 12.09, 46.36, 3.09 and 2.08 per cent respectively, the total sugar and reducing sugar were 41.29 and 37.74 per cent whereas the hardness was 175.22 N.As the selected ingredients are rich sources of nutrients, the developed laddoo was found to be highly nutritious.\r\nVitamin and Mineral Analysis of Mahua Flower Enriched Wheat Based Laddoo. The vitamin and mineral composition of the product for vitamin C, calcium, iron and phosphorus was analyzed and shown in Table 5. The product, thus obtained had very good amounts of calcium and iron which are most essential for pregnant/lactating women.\r\nThe vitamin C, calcium, iron and phosphorus content of Laddoo were 1.33, 132.56, 4.05 and 188.05 mg/100 g respectively.\r\nMicrobiological Analysis of Mahua Flower Enriched Wheat Based Laddoo. The microbiological quality in terms of the standard plate count, coliform count and yeast and mold count of optimized of mahua flower enriched Wheat based Laddoo was tested and the results are presented in Table 6.\r\nThe standard plate count, coliform and yeast and mold count observed in Wheat based Laddoo were 4.431, Nil and 1.17 log (cfu per g) respectively which was in compliance with the FSSAI standard of a khoya (FSSAI, 2011). The antimicrobial activity of Mahua flowers (Verma et al., 2010) contributed to the less microbial count in the developed laddoo.\r\n','Parmar Rohan, Dutta Samit and P. Srilatha (2022). Development of Mahua (Madhuca longifolia) Flower Enriched Wheat based Laddoo. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 14(3): 1143-1148.'),(5442,'136','Effect of Apis melifera Comb Age on Biology of Galleria mellonella in Morena of Madhya Pradesh, India','Lal Bahadur Singh and Ashok S. Yadav','195 Effect of Apis melifera Comb Age on Biology of Galleria mellonella in Morena of Madhya Pradesh, India Lal Bahadur Singh.pdf','',1,'A lab experiments was carried out to evaluate the effect of Apis mellifera comb age on the biology of greater wax moth (Galleria mellonella L.). The maximum egg duration (10 days) was found in fresh comb (0-06 month) but maximum egg length and egg width (0.43mm and 0.27mm) was recorded in 72-84 month old comb. Similarly, the maximum larval duration (119.67 days) was observed in fresh (0-06 month) comb but maximum larval length (26.54mm), larval width (5.83mm) and larval weight (297.67mg) was found in 72-84 month old comb age of A. mellifera. However, the maximum prepupal and pupal period (5.42 and 11.43 days, respectively) was found in fresh (0-06 month) comb but, maximum cocoon and pupal length (23.35 and 15.23mm), width (8.77 and 5.01mm) and weight (235.52 and 241.24mg), respectively was observed in (72-84 month old) comb. Similarly the maximum male and female longevity (12.58 days and 7.94 days, respectively) was noticed in 72-84 month old comb. Whereas, maximum male and female wing expense of adult was observed 28.30mm and 30.83mm in older (72-84 month old) comb. The pre-oviposition and post-oviposition period was maximum (2.47 and 2.17 days, respectively) in fresh (0-06 month) comb but maximum oviposition period was observed 7.03 days in older (72-84 month) comb. Similarly, the maximum adult female fecundity was resulted 929.43 eggs/F (127.81 eggs/F/Day) in older (72-84 month old) comb age of A. mellifera. Unlike other invertebrates, G. mellonella larvae can be incubated and can be dosed relatively precisely at 30-35ºC temperature as well as 50-60% RH, whereas the environmental condition in Chambal region is extremely warm in summer and also unfavorable in winter. The study was observed on laboratory condition.','Apis mellifera, Galleria mellonella, combs age, biological parameters, growth and development','Comb age of A. mellifera influenced the growth, development and biology of G. mellonella. Egg, larval and pupal duration was shorter when comb age was increased, whereas length and width of egg, larva and pupae were longest in old combs. Similarly, on older combs the longevity of male and female moth of G. mellonella was found highest and also the wing development was observed faster in old comb. Fecundity of adult female G. mellonella was highest in older comb then other age group of A. mellifera combs. ','INTRODUCTION\r\nHoney bees are an important part of the natural environment and influence the forest as well as the agricultural environment. Nearly one-third of the human diet comes from insect-pollinated plants and 80% of pollinated bees (Anonymous, 2014). The renovations and application of improved beekeeping technologies not only benefits beekeepers but also farmers and the general public in pollinating their crops, maintaining plant biodiversity, and the ecology at large (Mulatu & Gebissa 2021).\r\nTwo species of wax moths viz., greater wax moth (G. mellonella L.) and lesser wax moth (Achroia grisella F.) which occur either naturally or being introduced by human being, cause a considerable loss in bee industry at different regions of the world (Mohamed and Amro 2022). The incubation period varied from 6 to 10 days (Av. 7.36 days) and the larvae passed through seven successive instars (Desai et al., 2019). G. mellonella (Pyralidae; Lepidoptera) is an insect universally distributed all over the world where honeybees are present. This pest causes major harm especially in the tropical and sub-tropical regions, in the honeybee colonies of European honeybee (Kumar et. al., 2021). The pest inflicts heavy damage on beekeepers every year by feeding on beewax combs inside the hives as well as stored combs (Rahimi and Parichehreh 2021). The larval moths feed on wax combs, cast honey bee larval skins, pollen, some honey and leaving behind a destroyed comb containing moth silk and frass (Muhammad et al., 2020).\r\nThe A. mellifera comb demonstrated lesser fecundity and prolonged larval and pupal stages could be attributed to the presence of high content of propolis in the combs compared to other species of bee combs (Hanumanthaswamy et al., 2009). For larval development, temperature of 40oC was found unsuitable and Haydak diet was proved more suitable as compared to 2 years old A. mellifera comb pieces (Kumar and Kaushik 2010).\r\nMATERIALS AND METHODS\r\nStudies on the biology of G. mellonella was carried out on the different combs age of A. mellifera under laboratory condition at RVSKVV ZARS-KVK Morena (M.P.) during 2020-22. The combs were classified into eight groups based on the time after the comb construction. The combs was grouped into 0-6 (fresh), 6-12, 12-24, 24-36, 36-48, 48-60, 60-72 and 72-84 months old. Totally 80 eggs from the laboratory culture of the wax moth were kept in separate containers and were observed at 24 hrs interval. Newly laid eggs were collected from the stock culture and were observed at 24 hrs interval for hatching. The small piece of different old comb was provided separately for newly hatched larvae. Additional quantity of comb was provided as and when the larvae consumed the food. Observations were made every day for moulting, the number of moults and instars passed during the larval development. Grown up larvae was transferred into the plastic containers. Larval duration, weight, length and width was recorded before construction of the silken webs. Prepupal and pupal period, weight, length and width was determined. After adult emergence longevity of male and female, wing expanse, pre-ovipositional, ovipositional and post-ovipositional periods including number of eggs laid by female was recorded. The data was statistically analyzed in a factorial CRD (Completely Randomized Design) and tabulated. Linear correlation was also employed to verify the association between age of the comb and all the above biological parameters (Fig. 4) (Snedecor and Cochran 1967).\r\nRESULTS AND DISCUSSION\r\nA. Effect of comb age on the growth of Greater wax moth\r\nEffect on eggs growth. Egg duration was found to be non significant with age of the comb. The mean egg duration was 10.00, 9.50, 9.53, 8.90, 8.70, 8.37, 8.13 and 8.00 days on 0-6 (fresh), 6-12, 12-24, 24-36, 36-48, 48-60, 60-72 and 72-84 months old combs, respectively. On older combs the mean duration was shorter than those reared on other groups of combs. Eggs length measured 0.43 mm when reared on 0-06 months aged comb and were shorter than the eggs obtained when reared on 6-12, 12-24, 24-36, 36-48, 48-60, 60-72 and 72-84 months old combs, where they measured 0.44, 0.44, 0.45, 0.45, 0.45, 0.45 and 0.46 mm which was found to be significant with age of the comb. Similarly, egg width was significant with age of the comb. Eggs obtained from 72-84 months old comb were 0.32 mm broad and were broader than the eggs obtained from 60-72, 48-60, 36-48, 24-36, 12-24, 06-12 and 0-06 months old combs which measured 0.31, 0.30, 0.30, 0.29, 0.29, 0.28 and 0.27 mm, respectively (Table 1 & Fig. 5). Egg period was found non significant and negatively correlated with age of the comb (r = -0.97). Similarly, egg width was also found non significant (r = 0.97) and positively correlated with age of the comb. However, egg length was found to be significant and positively correlated with age of the comb (r = 0.82) (Table 3 & Fig. 1). \r\nEffect on larval growth. The Larval mean duration was observed 119.67, 108.40, 94.33, 72.87, 64.07, 55.95, 50.35 and 48.88 days on 0-6 (fresh), 6-12, 12-24, 24-36, 36-48, 48-60, 60-72 and 72-84 months old combs, respectively (Table 1 & Fig. 5). The mean length and width of the larvae were 17.77 and 4.12 mm on 0-06 months old comb, 19.80 and 4.37 mm on 06-12 months old comb, 21.10 and 4.54 mm on 12-24 months old comb, 22.44 and 4.81 mm on 24-36 months old comb, 23.80 and 5.35 mm on 36-48 months old comb, 24.77 and 5.47 mm on 48-60 months old comb, 25.80 and 5.62 mm on 60-72 months old comb and 26.54 and 5.83 mm on 72-84 months old comb. The mean weight of the larvae was 85.00, 95.35, 121.50, 166.01, 200.33, 225.35, 276.01 and 297.67 mg on 0-6 (fresh), 6-12, 12-24, 24-36, 36-48, 48-60, 60-72 and 72-84 months old combs, respectively. Larvae reared on the eight groups of old age combs were found to be non significant with respect to duration, length, width and weight. Combs of less than 2 months old were also tested in this experiment, but the larvae were died without pupation. It was observed that the age of the comb exerted significant influences on the larval duration, negative correlation (r = -0.96) was observed between these two parameters. However, larval length, larval width and larval weight were found non significant (r = 0.98, r = 0.98 and r = 0.99, respectively) and positively correlated with age of the comb (Table 3 & Fig. 1).\r\nSimilar observations were observed by Mohamed and Amro (2022), Desai et al., (2019); Muhammad et al., (2020) observed the average larval period was 50.84±4.90 days and larval length, width and weight was higher in older combs. Swamy (2008) found that the mean egg length and width was longer, and egg period was shorter on older combs than those reared on other groups of combs. Hosamani et al., (2017) found egg length and width as 0.44 and 0.30mm, respectively and larval growth was more or less similar to present findings. \r\nB. Effect of comb age on the development of Greater wax moth\r\nEffect on pre-pupal/cocoon development. The mean duration of the prepupa was recorded 5.42, 4.92, 3.93, 3.17, 2.68, 2.40, 2.25 and 2.00 days on 0-6 (fresh), 6-12, 12-24, 24-36, 36-48, 48-60, 60-72 and 72-84 months old combs, respectively. The mean length and width of the cocoons were 16.08 and 4.36 mm on 0-06 months old comb, 17.68 and 4.46 mm on 06-12 months old comb, 17.71 and 5.36 mm on 12-24 months old comb, 18.45 and 6.00 mm on 24-36 months old comb, 19.74 and 7.07 mm on 36-48 months old comb, 20.32 and 7.73 mm on 48-60 months old comb, 21.27 and 8.33 mm on 60-72 months old comb, where as the length (23.35 mm) and width (8.77 mm) of the cocoons was longer on 72-84 months old comb (Table 1 & Fig. 5). The mean weight of the cocoons was found 166.83, 186.17, 200.33, 208.83, 212.33, 215.00, 223.02 and 235.52 mg when reared on 0-6 (fresh), 6-12, 12-24, 24-36, 36-48, 48-60, 60-72 and 72-84 months old combs, respectively. The differences in the duration of prepupa, length, width and weight of the eight sets of the cocoons were statistically non significant. It was observed that the age of the comb exerted significant influences on the prepupal period, negative correlation (r = -0.95) was observed between these two parameters. Similarly, Cocoon weight was found significant (r = 0.94) and positively correlated with age of the comb. However, cocoon length and cocoon width were found non significant and positively correlated with age of the comb (r = 0.98 and r = 0.99) (Table 3 & Fig. 2).\r\nEffect on pupal development. The mean pupal duration was noticed 11.43, 11.37, 11.15, 10.27, 10.10, 9.70 and 9.03 days when reared on 0-6 (fresh), 6-12, 12-24, 24-36, 36-48, 48-60 and 60-72 months old combs, respectively (Table 1 & Fig. 5). On 72-84 months old combs the mean pupal duration was observed 8.83 days and was found to be significantly shorter than those reared on other combs of different ages. The mean pupal length was observed 8.20, 9.60, 9.64, 10.41, 12.41, 12.96, 14.22 and 15.23 mm on 0-6 (fresh), 6-12, 12-24, 24-36, 36-48, 48-60, 60-72 and 72-84 months old combs, respectively. The mean width of the pupae was 3.03, 3.11, 3.67, 4.05, 4.27, 4.72, 4.92 and 5.01 mm on 0-6 (fresh), 6-12, 12-24, 24-36, 36-48, 48-60, 60-72 and 72-84 months old comb, respectively. The mean weight of the pupae when reared on 0-6 (fresh), 6-12, 12-24, 24-36, 36-48, 48-60, 60-72 and 72-84 months old comb was 112.37 mg, 123.67 mg, 142.92 mg, 190.86 mg, 212.71 mg, 224.38 mg, 236.67 mg and 241.24 mg, respectively. Pupae reared on the eight different age old combs were found to be non significant with respect to length, width and weight. Thus the pupae reared on 72-84 months old combs were found to be larger than those reared on other old combs. It was observed that the age of the comb exerted significant influences on the pupal weight, positive correlation (r = 0.96) was observed between these two parameters. However, pupal period was found non significant and negatively correlated (r = -0.99) with age of the comb. Similarly, pupal length and pupal width were found non significant and positively correlated with age of the comb (r = 0.99 and r = 0.98) (Table 3 & Fig. 3).\r\nMore or less similar result was obtained by Rahimi and Parichehreh (2021); Kwadha et al. (2017); Hosamani et al., (2017); Ellis et al. (2012). Swamy (2008) observed cocoon and pupal period as 258.50 and 192.00 mg, respectively. Mandal and Vishwakarma (2016); Desai et al. (2019) found that the cocoon and pupal length and width were longer, and durations were shorter on older combs than those reared on other groups of combs.\r\nC. Effect of combs age on the biological parameters of Greater wax moth\r\nEffect on adult longevity. Males reared on 0-06 months old combs lived for 6.20 days while, those reared on 72-84 months old combs lived for 19.30 days. This difference was found to be highly significant. The males reared on other different age old combs lived for 7.27, 8.93, 10.53, 13.23, 16.90 and 18.23 days on 6-12, 12-24, 24-36, 36-48, 48-60 and 60-72 months old combs, respectively. Females also exhibited similar pattern and lived longer when reared on 72-84 months old combs (10.23 days) followed by 60-72 (9.87 days), 48-60 (9.17 days), 36-48 (8.67 days), 24-36 (7.67 days), 12-24 (6.40 days), 06-12 (6.03 days) and 0-06 (5.47 days) months old combs (Table 2).\r\nEffect on wing expense. The mean wing expense of males reared on 0-06 months old combs was 19.90 mm while, those reared on 72-84 months old combs the wing expense was 28.30 mm. This difference was found to be highly significant. The wing expense of males reared on other different age old combs was 21.00, 22.07, 23.47, 24.20, 24.87 and 27.07 mm on 6-12, 12-24, 24-36, 36-48, 48-60 and 60-72 months old combs, respectively. Females also exhibited similar pattern and wing expense was broader when reared on 72-84 months old combs (30.83 mm) followed by 60-72 (29.17 mm), 48-60 (27.53 mm), 36-48 (25.63 mm), 24-36 (24.20 mm), 12-24 (22.70 mm), 06-12 (21.87 mm) and 0-06 (21.10 mm) months old combs (Table 2 & Fig. 6).\r\nMale and female longevity were found non significant and positively correlated (r = 0.99 and r = 0.98, respectively) with age of the comb. Similarly, Male and female wing expense were found non significant and positively correlated (r = 0.99 and r = 0.98, respectively) with age of the comb (Table 3).\r\nSimilar findings were obtained by Mohamed et al. (2014) and Swamy et al. (2008) as wing expense of male and female was long in older combs then other age group of comb. Kumar et al., (2021) and Mohamed et al. (2014) also found the average longevity of G. mellonella male and female as 18 and 10 days, respectively which was similar to the present findings.\r\nEffect on biological parameters of females. Pre-oviposition, oviposition and post oviposition periods for female moths reared on different age old combs were found to differ significantly. The mean pre oviposition period was 2.47, 2.33, 2.27, 2.23, 2.13, 1.27, 1.13 and 1.00 days for females reared on 0-6 (fresh), 6-12, 12-24, 24-36, 36-48, 48-60, 60-72 and 72-84 months old combs, respectively. The corresponding means for oviposition and post oviposition periods were 1.07 and 2.17 days, respectively on 0-06 months old combs, 1.53 and 2.03 days, respectively on 06-12 months old combs, 2.80 and 1.97 days, respectively on 12-24 months old combs, 3.47 and 1.83 days, respectively on 24-36 months old combs, 4.13 and 1.33 days, respectively on 36-48 months old combs, 5.03 and 1.17 days, respectively on 48-60 months old combs, 6.43 and 1.17 days, respectively on 60-72 months old combs and 7.03 and 1.03 days, respectively on 72-84 months old combs (Table 2 and Fig. 6). \r\nFecundity was found to differ significantly between the females reared on different old combs. Females reared on 0-06 months old combs laid an average of 40.37 eggs/female with 26.16 eggs/day, on 06-12 months old combs they laid an average of 75.73 eggs/female with 38.13 eggs/day, on 12-24 months old combs they laid an average of 214.37 eggs/female with 60.72 eggs/day, on 24-36 months old combs they laid an average of 318.87 eggs/female with 74.78 eggs/day, on 36-48 months old combs they laid an average of 502.53 eggs/female with 87.81 eggs/day, on 48-60 months old combs they laid an average of 687.00 eggs/female with 102.05 eggs/day, on 60-72 months old combs they laid an average of 869.10 eggs/female with 117.55 eggs/day, whereas on 72-84 months old combs they laid an average of 929.43 eggs/female in their life time distributing at a rate of 127.81 eggs/day (Table 2 & Fig 6). \r\nIt was observed that the age of the comb exerted significant influences on the pre-ovipositional period, negative correlation (r = -0.94) was observed between these two parameters. However, ovipositional period was found non significant and positively correlated (r = 0.99) with age of the comb. Similarly, post-ovipositional period was found non significant and negatively correlated (r = -0.97) with age of the comb. Whereas, eggs per female and eggs per day of adult were found non significant and positively correlated (r = 0.99 and r = 0.99, respectively) with age of the comb (Table 3 & Fig. 3).\r\nMore or less similar result was found by Ramesh et al. (2021); Kwadha et al. (2017); Rahman et al. (2017) as mean pre and post oviposition period was 1.55 and 1.30 days, respectively, whereas average oviposition period was 6.70 days. Desai et al. (2019); Hosamani et al. (2017); Swamy (2008) observed the fecundity of adult female moth which was higher in oldest comb and consumable for newly born larvae.\r\n','Lal Bahadur Singh and Ashok S. Yadav (2022). Effect of Apis melifera Comb Age on Biology of Galleria mellonella in Morena of Madhya Pradesh, India. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 14(3): 1149-1156.'),(5443,'136','Forecasting of Area, Yield and Production of Mustard in Odisha','Gourav Sahu and Abhiram Dash','196 Forecasting of Area, Yield and Production of Mustard in Odisha Abhiram Dash.pdf','',1,'Mustard (Brassica juncea) constitutes as one of the important oilseed crops in Odisha. In Odisha, mustard is generally grown as a rabi season crop after the rice cultivation. Varieties like RLM 619, Pusa bold, Varuna, Pusa Bahar, krantiare growing in Odisha conditions very well. Forecasting of mustard production is of utmost importance for the agri-planners for making policies regarding package of practices of the mustard crop. The present research is carried out on forecasting area, yield and production of mustard in Odisha by using ARIMA model. \r\nARIMA, the most widely used model for forecasting is used in the study. The data on area, yield and production of mustard are collected from 1970-71 to 2019-20 are used to fit the models found suitable from ACF and PACF plots. The ACF and PACF plots are obtained from stationarized data. The best fit model is selected on basis of significance of estimated coefficients, model diagnostic tests and model fit statistics. The selected best fit model is cross validated by refitting the model by leaving last 5 years, 4years, up to last 1 year data and obtaining one step ahead forecast for the years from 2015-16 to 2019-20. After successful cross validation the selected best fit model is used for forecasting the area, yield and production of niger in Odisha for the future years 2020-21, 2021-22, 2022-23. \r\nThe ARIMA model found to be best fit for area, yield and production of mustard are ARIMA(1,0,0), ARIMA(0,1,1), ARIMA(2,0,2) respectively. All these selected models are fitted without constant as the constant term is insignificant for all these cases. The forecasted values for area under mustard is found to increase in the future years which is responsible for increase in forecasted values of future production despite the yield remaining stagnant for future years.\r\n','ARIMA, cross validation, forecast, model diagnostics, model fit statistics','ARIMA (1,0,0) with constant model, ARIMA (0,1,1) without constant model and ARIMA (2,0,2) with constant model are found to be the best fit model for area, yield and production of mustard in Odisha. These selected models are used for forecasting of area, yield and production of mustard in Odisha. The forecast values shows that area under mustard is likely to increase in future years, whereas, yield will be stagnant but forecast in production of mustard in Odisha is forecasted to increase in future years with variation in lower and upper class interval of the forecast values. This increase in forecast of production for future years is due to increase in area.','INTRODUCTION\r\nOilseeds are broadly divided into two groups, primary groups consists of the edible group viz. Groundnut, Rapeseed (Toria, Mustard and Sarson), Soybean, Sunflower, Sesame, Safflower and Niger and secondary group consists of non-edible group viz. Castor and Linseed. In India, among 9 oilseed crops, mustard is grown in about 24 per cent of area under oilseeds and producing 27 per cent of total oilseeds production followed by ground nut having 20 per cent area and 27 per cent production (oilseeds.dac.gov.in/). In Odisha, the crop is cultivated in 10 per cent of area under oilseeds and producing about 4 per cent of total oilseeds production. Kalahandi, Kandhamal, Sundargarh are now leading in mustard production in the state followed by Balasore, Angul, Keonjhar, Mayurbhanj, Sambalpur. In mustard, the oil content varies from 37 to 49%. The seed and oil are used as condiments in the preparation of pickles, curries, vegetables, hair oils, medicines and manufacture of greases. The oil cake is used as feed and manure. The leaves of young plants are used as green vegetables and green stems and leaves are a good source of green fodder for cattle. In the tanning industry, mustard oil is used for softening leather. Forecasting is one of the main tools in the field of agricultural decision-making system to make effective growth policies and successful economic plans. \r\nThus, oilseeds making an important contribution in general livelihood of farmers and overall agrarian economy, the need of accurate and timely forecasting of production and yield to make different policy decisions on storage, pricing, marketing, import-export, etc. is inevitable. There have been several studies on the forecasting of area, production and yield of different crops by various researchers. Chaudhari et al. (2013) examine three types of model using meteorological weather variables and mustard crop yield (Productivity) in Gandhinagar district of Gujarat. Ravita et al. (2016) applied ARIMA modelling for mustard yield Prediction in Haryana. Shah et al. (2017) conducts a study to forecast the substantial food crop production in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, Pakistan; the secondary data were utilized by applying ARIMA forecasting strategy. They found that the outcome of the ARIMA model was sufﬁcient. Daka et al. (2019) identified most suitable pre-harvest forecasting model for mustard crop for Banaskantha district of Gujarat. Ajay and Urmil (2020) forecasted yield of mustard in Haryana using ARIMA model. This study focuses on the forecasting of area, production and yield of mustard in Odisha using ARIMA models. Kumari et al. (2022) deals with comparison of different statistical models to predict area, production and yield of citrus in Gujarat state. The study revealed that ARIMA model was superior to explain the area, production and yield of citrus.\r\nMATERIALS AND METHODS\r\nThe secondary data on area, yield and production of niger are collected for the state of Odisha (kharif and rabi seasons combined) for the period 1970-71 to 2019-20 from Five Decades of Odisha Agriculture Statistics published by Directorate of Agriculture and Food Production, Odisha.\r\nAn Autoregressive Integrated Moving Average model is a statistical model which is used to predict the future trends. The ARMA models, which includes the order of differencing (which is done to station arise the data) is known as Autoregressive integrated moving average (ARIMA) model. A non-seasonal ARIMA model is classified as an \"ARIMA (p,d,q)\" model, where, the parameters p, d, q are the non-negative integers where p is the number of autoregressive terms, d is the number of nonseasonal differences necessary for stationarizing the data, and q is the number of moving average terms. Thus, the ARIMA (p, d, q) model can be represented y the following general forecasting equation:\r\nY_t=μ+∑_(i=1)^p▒〖ɸ_i Y_(t-i)+ ∑_(j=1)^q▒〖θ_j ε_(t-j)+ε_t 〗〗\r\nWhere μ is a mean, ɸ_1,ɸ_2,…..ɸ_(p )and θ_1,θ_2,……θ_j are the parameters of the model, p is the order of the autoregressive term, q is the order of the moving average term, and ε_t ,ε_(t-1),..ε_(t-j)are noise error terms.\r\nModel identification: The ARIMA model is fitted to stationary data i.e. having constant mean and variance. Stationarity of data can be tested by using Augmented Dickey-Fuller test. If it is not stationary then it should be converted into stationary series by differencing the data at suitable lag. Usually, the data is stationarized after 1 or 2 differencing. After stationarizing the data, the Auto Correlation Function (ACF) and Partial Auto Correlation Function (PACF) plots are used to identify tentative Auto Regression (AR) and Moving Average (MA) orders. The orders of AR and MA are denoted by p and q respectively. Various tentative models based on identified AR and MA orders are fitted and parameters are estimated. After fitting the tentative models for a variable (area/yield/production) the estimated coefficients are tested for the significance and the normality and independency of the residuals of the fitted models are checked by using Shapiro-Wilk’s test statistic and Box-Ljung test statistic respectively. The models having all the estimated coefficients significant and satisfying the normality and independency of the errors are now compared on the basis of model fit statistics like Mean Absolute Percentage Error (MAPE), Root Mean Square Error (RMSE) and Akaike’s Information Criteria corrected (AICc). Then the model having the lowest value of these model fit statistics is considered to be the best fit model for the variable.\r\nThe model fit statistics like MAPE, RMSE and AICc are mathematically as follows:\r\nMean absolute percentage error: 100/n ∑_(t=1)^n▒|(y_t-y ̂_t)/y_t | \r\nRoot mean square error (RMSE): √((∑_(T=1)^n▒(y ̂_t-y_t )^2 )/n) (Mishra, et. al)\r\nwhere y ̂_t= forecasted value, y_t= actual value and n = number of observations\r\nAkaike’s information criteria corrected: AIC + (〖2K〗^2+2K)/(n-k-1)\r\nWhere AIC is the Akaike’s Information criteria, k denotes the number of parameters and n denotes the sample size i.e. no. of observations.\r\nThe model with lowest RMSE, MAPE and AICc values is selected as the best fit ARIMA model among selected tentative models and it is taken for forecasting.\r\nRESULTS AND DISCUSSION\r\nThe data on area, yield and production of mustard crop was tested for the presence of stationarity by using Augmented Dickey Fuller test and the results are presented in Table 1. The test results confirmed that the data was not stationary and made stationary by differencing at lag 2.\r\nIn the next step the order of AR and MA terms such as p and q were identified using the ACF and PACF plots shown in Fig. 1, 2 and 3. Different tentative models were identified using the orders of AR and MA terms.\r\n \r\nThe tentative models of area and their estimated coefficients along with error measures are shown in the Table 2. The study of the table reveals that ARIMA (1,0,0) with constant model has all the estimated coefficients significant.\r\nTable 3 shows the model diagnostics test and model fit statistics for the fitted ARIMA models. ARIMA (1,0,0) model satisfies both the test of normality and independency of residuals. Thus this model is selected to be the best fit model for area under mustard crop. Fig. 4 also shows that none of the autocorrelations and partial autocorrelations of residuals are significant. This furthers confirms the selection of the respective best fit models.\r\nThe tentative ARIMA models of yield and their estimated coefficients are shown in the Table 4. The study of the table reveals that ARIMA (1, 1, 0), ARIMA (0, 1, 1) with and without constant model has all the estimated coefficients significant.\r\nTable 5 shows the model diagnostics test and model fit statistics for the ARIMA models fit to data on yield of mustard. ARIMA (0, 1, 1) without constant model satisfies both the test of normality and independency of residuals. The RMSE, MAPE and AICc are least for ARIMA (0, 1, 1) without constant model. Thus, ARIMA (0, 1, 1) without constant model is selected to be the best fit model for yield of mustard crop. Fig. 5 also shows that none of the autocorrelations and partial autocorrelations of residuals are significant. This furthers confirms the selection of the respective best fit models.\r\nThe tentative models of production and their estimated coefficients along with error measures are shown in the Table 6. The study of the table reveals that ARIMA (2, 0, 0), without constant and ARIMA (2, 0, 2), ARIMA (1, 0, 1) with constant model has all the estimated coefficients significant.\r\nTable 7 shows the model fit statistics and model diagnostics test for the fitted ARIMA models for production of mustard. ARIMA (2, 0, 2) with constant model satisfies both the test of normality and independency of residuals and also having least AICc value. The RMSE and MAPE are less for ARIMA (1, 1, 0) without constant model. Thus this model is selected to be the best fit model for production of mustard crop. Fig. 6 also shows that none of the autocorrelations and partial autocorrelations of residuals are significant. This furthers confirms the selection of the respective best fit models.\r\nIn the Table 8, the result of cross validation of the selected best fit ARIMA model by one-step ahead forecasting has been presented. The APE (absolute percentage error) of area of mustard is found to be in the range between 1 to 21 and the MAPE (mean APE) is found to be 7.1254 for area of niger crop. Similarly for yield the APE range is found between 0.2 to 2.7 and MAPE is 1.2567. And that for production, APE range is between 3 to 38 and MAPE is 13.464. These results show that the selected ARIMA models are successfully cross validated.\r\nThe appropriate ARIMA models which are represented in the previous tables were used to forecast the area, yield and production of mustard crop in Odisha for the years 2020-21, 2021-22 and 2022-23.\r\nFig. 7, 8 and 9 shows the actual, fitted and forecast values of area, yield and production of mustard in Odisha.\r\n\r\n','Gourav Sahu and Abhiram Dash (2022). Forecasting of Area, Yield and Production of Mustard in Odisha. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 14(3): 1157-1163.'),(5444,'136','Effect of Planting Time, Rooting Hormone and different Rooting Media Combinations on Chlorophyll and Nutrient content of Leaves of Pomegranate Cuttings in Haryana conditions','Poonam Saini, R.K. Goyal, Hemant Saini and Pooja','197 Effect of Planting Time, Rooting Hormone and different Rooting Media Combinations on Chlorophyll and Nutrient content of Leaves of Pomegranate Cuttings in Haryana conditions Poonam Saini.pdf','',1,'The experiment was conducted on the effect of time of planting, indole butyric acid (IBA) treatment and rooting media was carried out at Centre for Quality Planting Material, CCS Haryana Agricultural University, Hisar (Haryana) during the year 2017. Pomegranate can be propagated either sexually or vegetatively but the seedlings raised by seeds will have variations in progeny with respect to plant vigour, precocity and fruit quality, therefore, vegetative method of propagation is preferred for eliminating the high degree of variability and to ensure early bearing, transfer of good characters and genetic purity of a cultivar. Propagation through cuttings is simple, convenient, inexpensive and rapid. The pomegranate cuttings of Bhagwa variety were planted during February and March after treating half the cuttings with IBA at 2000 ppm and remaining half untreated in ten different combinations of rooting media. The chlorophyll content and Leaf nutrient content, viz. NPK was recorded maximum in leaves of pomegranate cuttings treated with IBA 2000 ppm and planted in cocopeat, perlite and vermicompost media (4:1:1) in February month. ','Pomegranate, IBA, Chlorophyll, Cocopeat, Perlite, Vermicompost','Based on the above findings it was concluded that the chlorophyll and leaf nutrient (N,P,K) content of leaves of pomegranate cuttings could be improved by planting the cuttings in media combination of cocopeat, perlite and vermicompost in ratio of 4:1:1 after treating with IBA at 2000 ppm during February. Thus, propagation of pomegranate through cuttings could be done more precisely by selecting right time for the operation, optimal rooting hormone concentration and appropriate rooting media combination.','INTRODUCTION\r\nPomegranate (Punica granatum L.) is a subtropical fruit belongs to the family Lythraceae and is known to be originated from Iran and grows well in arid conditions due its hardy nature. India is the leading country for pomegranate production in the world occupying an area of 0.193 million hectare and annual production of 2.198 million tonnes (Saxena and Gandhi 2015). Pomegranate is commonly propagated through hardwood cuttings because it is a simple, convenient, inexpensive and rapid method for (Upadhyay and Badyal 2007) obtaining well developed and stronger plants. However, the success of this method depends upon factors like time of planting, rooting hormone and media used. In order to reduce the high mortality of rooted cuttings under field conditions, it is highly desirable to build a healthy and well developed root system for enabling better field establishment of pomegranate trees by treating with suitable plant growth regulators (Tanwar et al., 2020). Exogenous application of auxin can induce early rooting and can prevent the failure of cuttings (Kasim and Rayya 2009).The success rate of cuttings as well as number and quality of roots in cuttings of various fruit plants can be increased by exogenous application of synthetic auxin indole butyric acid (IBA). To reduce the mortality rate of cuttings plant growing media other than soil is required with properties like chemical resistance, light weight, heat balance, physical stability, source of nutrients, free from insects-pests and pathogens (Ercisli et al., 2003) and it should also be sufficiently firm, dense to maintain the cuttings in place, porous to drain out excess water and permit aeration. In this way, the nutrients absorption, water consumption, oxygen maintenance and growth of plant can be improved using the different organic and inorganic substrates. Rooting medium plays an important role in rooting of cuttings and for further growth and development of cuttings. It also provides moisture and air to the base of cutting The different types of rooting media that can be used for growing pomegranate include sand, cocopeat, perlite, vermiculite, vermicompost, etc.\r\nSand is chemically inert medium with neutral pH and nutrients free (Alikhani et al., 2011). Cocopeat, an organic material, which is porous in nature, has medium ion and high water absorption capacity (Schie, 1999), provides enough aeration to roots and maintains suitable pH and electrical conductivity. Cocopeat can store and provide nutrients to cuttings for longer period, and therefore, it may help to make the nutrients available to the cuttings of pomegranate (Raut et al., 2015). Cocopeat and perlite have the capacity to interchange elements especially inside the substrate and proper moisture distribution, which help in rooting and plant growth (Nourizadeh, 2003). Perlite is considered as a substrate with excellent features in soilless cultivation since it has high water absorption capacity and increases water use efficiency (Djedidi et al., 1999), provides gas interchanges in media due to existence of porosity in it and improves aeration in the soil. Vermiculite improves soil aeration resulting in high moisture retention and more availability of nutrients to roots (Rajkumar et al., 2016). Vermicompost consists of available forms of nutrition for plant uptake such as nitrates, exchangeable phosphorus, potassium, calcium and magnesium and increased water retention capacity (Khalighi and Padasht-Dehkaee 2000).\r\nBesides, rooting hormone and plant growing media the time of operation also governs the survival of cuttings. The time of the year that shoot cuttings are being collected is so crucial for obtaining a high performance of sprouting in the cuttings (Kahramanoglu and Umar 2018). Successful cutting propagation has been associated with ideal planting time of cuttings. Higher rooting percentage was recorded in the cuttings planted at end of February than those planted at the beginning of October (Hambrick et al., 1991). Hardwood cuttings of 20 cm length will root faster and easily if planted in February or March (Sheets, 2004). We report on effect of time of planting, IBA treatment and rooting media on rooting and root characters of pomegranate cuttings.\r\nMATERIALS AND METHODS\r\nExperimental site and details. The experiment was conducted at Centre for Quality Planting Material, CCS Haryana Agricultural University, Hisar (Haryana), India. The Hisar district in Haryana state of India is situated at 215.2 meter above sea level with coordinates of 29°10ʹ N latitude and 75°46ʹ E longitudes with typical semi-arid climate having hot and dry summer and extremely cold winters. The study was carried out under open field conditions during February and March of 2017 with different combinations of rooting media viz. T1: S and, T2: Cocopeat, T3: Cocopeat + sand (1:3), T4: Cocopeat + vermicompost (4:1), T5: Cocopeat + perlite + vermicompost (4:1:1), T6: Cocopeat + perlite + vermicompost (6:1:1), T7: Cocopeat + perlite + vermicompost (8:1:1), T8: Cocopeat + perlite + vermiculite (4:1:1), T9: Cocopeat + perlite + vermiculite (6:1:1), T10: Cocopeat + perlite + vermiculite (8:1:1).\r\nPreparation of cuttings and IBA concentration. The hardwood cuttings of pomegranate cultivar Bhagwa were prepared from healthy and disease free one year old mature branches of 7.5-10 cm thickness. The cuttings of 20 cm in length with 5 to 6 buds were completely defoliated and a straight cut at basal end just below the bud and a slanting cut at the apical end above the bud was made. Indole butyric acid (IBA) of 2000 ppm concentration was prepared by dissolving 2 g IBA in small quantity of ethanol and final volume was made upto 1000 ml using distilled water.\r\nPlanting of cuttings. Poly bags of 7 × 9 inch were filled as per the treatment with rooting media on volume basis and kept replication wise for the planting of cuttings. The basal portion of half number of freshly prepared cuttings on the day of planting was treated with a solution of IBA 200 ppm for 2 minutes and remaining half of the freshly prepared cuttings was planted without IBA treatment in the polybags.\r\nChlorophyll content in leaves (mg/g of FW). A method developed by Hiscox and Israelstam (1979) was used for the estimation of chlorophyll. From each cutting, leaves were selected and the chlorophyll content of selected leaves was measured by using spectrophotometer. One hundred mg of leaf tissue was placed in a vial, then 5 ml dimethyl sulphoxide (DMSO) was added into it and kept overnight so that chlorophyll could be extracted into fluid and the tissue became chlorophyll free. A 3 ml aliquot of chlorophyll extract was transferred to a cuvette and the absorbance values were recorded at 645 and 665 nm against a blank (DMSO) by using a spectrophotometer. The chlorophyll contents were calculated by using the following equations: \r\nChlorophyll ‘a’ =\r\n \"(12.3×A665) - (0.86 × A645)\" /\"a × weight of tissue ×1000\" ×\" volume of DMSO\" \r\nChlorophyll ‘b’ =\r\n \"(19.3×A645) - (3.6 × A665)\" /\"a × weight of tissue ×1000\" ×\" volume of DMSO\" \r\nWhere,\r\na= path length\r\nTotal chlorophyll= chlorophyll ‘a’+ chlorophyll ‘b’\r\nNutrients content in leaves (N, P and K). Leaf samples were collected and oven dried. Thereafter, the dried leaves were ground by using the electric grinder and the powder formed was stored in clean polythene bags. These powdered leaf samples were used for digestion. \r\nThe powdered leaf samples of 0.2 g were taken in 50 ml conical flask. 10 ml of diacid mixture (H2SO4 and HClO4 in ratio of 9:1) was added to it and kept overnight. Thereafter, it was kept on hot plate and heated gently at first. Then, it was heated vigorously until it became a clear colourless solution of about 3-4 ml and all the fumes ceased out. It was cooled down and transferred to 50 ml volumetric flask and volume was made to the mark using distilled water. It was then filtered using Whatman no. 1 filter paper and used for analysis. \r\nNitrogen content in leaves (%). Nessler’s reagent method as given by Jackson (1967) was used for the determination of nitrogen content. 0.2 ml of digested plant material was taken in 25 ml volumetric flask and 5 ml of distilled water was added to it and about 1 ml of 10% NaOH was added to neutralize the acidity of solution. Thereafter, 1 ml of 10% sodium silicate was added and the volume was made to about 20 ml, and then, 2 ml of Nessler\'s reagent was added, which gave orange colour complex. Volume was made to the mark. Intensity of colour was read on spectrophotometer by using blue filter at 440 nm wavelength. Nitrogen content was calculated by using standard curve. \r\nPhosphorus content in leaves (%). Vanado-molybdate method proposed by Jackson (1967) was used for the determination of phosphorus in plant sample. 2 ml of aliquot was taken in 25 ml volumetric flask and 2-3 drops of 2,4-dinitrophenol indicator were added to it. Thereafter, ammonia solution was added until the yellow colour appeared and then 6 N HCl was added drop wise until it again became colourless. 5 ml of vanado-molybdate solution was added and the volume was made upto the mark. It was mixed well and the intensity of yellow colour was read on spectrophotometer by using blue filter at 440 nm wavelength and phosphorus content was calculated by using standard curve. A blank was also run simultaneously. \r\nPotassium content in leaves (%). Flame photometer was used for the determination of potassium in acid digested plant samples. 5 ml of digested plant material was taken in a 25 ml volumetric flask and the volume was made to the mark using distilled water. Potassium concentration was measured by using flame photometer as explained by Piper (1966). Potassium content of the sample was calculated by using the standard curve.\r\nStatistical analysis. The experiment was laid out in Factorial Complete Randomized Design. Each treatment was replicated six times. Statistical analysis of data collected during the study was done using OP STAT tool. \r\nRESULTS\r\nIn the present study, the chlorophyll ‘a’, chlorophyll ‘b’ and total chlorophyll content in pomegranate leaves was significantly affected by the time of planting cuttings, IBA treatment and different rooting media when considered irrespective of each other as presented in Table 1 and 4.\r\nEffect of time of planting on chlorophyll and nutrient content of leaves. The content of chlorophyll ‘a’ (1.13 mg/g of fresh weight), chlorophyll ‘b’ (0.39 mg/g of fresh weight) and total chlorophyll content (1.53 mg/g of fresh weight) in pomegranate leaves was noted maximum in the cuttings planted during February as compared to those planted in March. Irrespective of IBA treatment and rooting media, the maximum nitrogen, phosphorus and potassium content in leaves (1.48%), (0.51%) and (2.38%) was observed in cuttings planted during February as compared to those planted during March (1.39%), (0.33%) and (2.17%).\r\nEffect of IBA treatment on chlorophyll and nutrient content of leaves. The cuttings treated with IBA 2000 ppm resulted in highest content of chlorophyll ‘a’ (1.19 mg/g of fresh weight), chlorophyll ‘b’ (0.42 mg/g of fresh weight) and total chlorophyll content (1.62 mg/g of fresh weight) in pomegranate leaves and the untreated cuttings showed the lowest content of chlorophyll ‘a’ (0.98 mg/g of fresh weight), chlorophyll ‘b’ (0.35 mg/g of fresh weight) and total chlorophyll (1.33 mg/g of fresh weight) in pomegranate leaves. The cuttings treated with IBA 2000 ppm showed maximum nitrogen (1.50%), phosphorus (0.53%) and potassium (2.41%) content in leaves and the minimum was recorded in untreated cuttings irrespective of time of planting cuttings and rooting media (1.36%), (0.39%) and (2.13%).\r\nEffect of rooting media on chlorophyll and nutrient content of leaves. The maximum content of chlorophyll ‘a’ (1.42 mg/g of fresh weight), chlorophyll ‘b’ (0.51 mg/g of fresh weight) and total cholorophyll (1.92 mg/g of fresh weight) was found in the cuttings planted in media combination of cocopeat, perlite and vermicompost of 4:1:1 ratio, while the minimum content of chlorophyll ‘a’ (0.79 mg/g of fresh weight) and chlorophyll ‘b’ (0.26 mg/g of fresh weight) and total cholorophyll (1.05 mg/g of fresh weight) content in pomegranate leaves was obtained in the cuttings planted in sand medium. Likewise, the cuttings planted in media combination of cocopeat, perlite and vermicompost in 4:1:1 ratio had the highest content of nitrogen (2.19%), phosphorus (0.63%) and potassium (2.69%) in leaves which was significantly higher than all other treatments when considered irrespective of time of planting cuttings and IBA treatment, however, the minimum content of nitrogen (0.82%), phosphorus (0.26%) and potassium (1.88%) was registered in leaves of cuttings planted in sand medium.\r\nCombined effect of time of planting and rooting media on chlorophyll and nutrient content of leaves. The combined effect of time of planting and rooting media significantly enhanced the phosphorus content (0.67%) was obtained in leaves of cuttings planted in media combination of cocopeat, perlite and vermicompost (4:1:1) during the month of February, whereas, the minimum phosphorus content (0.23%) was recorded in leaves of cuttings planted in sand medium during March. However, chlorophyll, nitrogen and potassium content of leaves were not affected significantly by the interaction effect of time of planting and rooting media (Table 2 and 5). \r\nCombined effect of IBA treatment and rooting media on chlorophyll and nutrient content of leaves. Interaction between IBA treatment and rooting media did not significantly influenced the chlorophyll and leaf nutrient content except phosphorus content (0.71%) which was found maximum in the cuttings planted in media combination of cocopeat, perlite and vermicompost in ratio of 4:1:1 after giving IBA 2000 ppm treatment and the minimum (0.22%) was observed in leaves of cuttings planted in sand medium without IBA treatment (Table 3 and 6).\r\nCombined effect of time of planting and IBA treatment on chlorophyll and nutrient content of leaves. The cuttings planted in February after giving IBA treatment showed the maximum nitrogen (1.56%), phosphorus (0.56%) and potassium (2.52%) content in their leaves as compared to the leaves of cuttings planted in March without IBA treatment showed the minimum nitrogen (1.33%), phosphorus (0.33%) and potassium (2.03%) content. The chlorophyll content was not affected significantly by the interaction effect of time of planting and rooting media (Fig. 1 and 2).\r\nCombined effect of time of planting, IBA treatment and rooting media on chlorophyll and nutrient content of leaves. The combined effect of time of planting, IBA treatment and rooting media did not affected the Chlorophyll and leaf nutrient content except phosphorus content. The cuttings planted in media combination of cocopeat, perlite and vermicompost in ratio of 4:1:1 after giving IBA 2000 ppm treatment during February showed the maximum phosphorus content (0.72%), which was found statistically at par with the interaction effect of cuttings planted in media combination of cocopeat, perlite and vermiculite in ratio of 4:1:1 after giving IBA treatment during February, however, the minimum total phosphorus content (0.19%) was recorded in the leaves of untreated cuttings planted in sand medium during March.\r\nDISCUSSION\r\nChlorophyll Content. The increased concentration of chlorophyll in leaves might be due to the increased concentration of auxin, which increased the leaf area and photosynthesis. Shahab et al. (2013) observed that cuttings with more number of leaves absorbed more nutrients, thereby increased the assimilates production and provided sufficient food for the metabolism activities of the plants. Growth hormones have been shown to play an important role in regulating the amount and distribution of assimilates in plants (Galston and Davies 1969). The increase in chlorophyll content in leaves might be due to the supply of sufficient nutrients especially nitrogen, which is essential element for the synthesis of chlorophyll (Awasthi et al., 1996). Similar results were reported by (Kaur et al., 2002) who noticed that the chlorophyll content of leaves in grape vine stem cuttings enhanced after IBA treatment, Sivaci and Yalcin (2006) who reported that leaf chlorophyll content in stem cuttings of three apple cultivars (Golden Delicious, Starkrimson Delicious and Misket Delicious) was significantly increased by treatment of IBA 2000-3000 ppm and Rani (2017) who observed maximum leaf chlorophyll content in terminal cuttings of guava cv. Taiwan Pink planted in cocopeat medium with treatment of IBA 3000 ppm.\r\nLeaf nutrient content (%). Leaf nutrient content viz., N, P, K in leaves of pomegranate was found maximum in cutting planted in February which might be due to the favorable ecological conditions for better growth of roots in February month, which was responsible for more absorption of nutrients. Likewise, the cuttings treated with IBA 2000 ppm had highest nitrogen, phosphorus and potassium content. It might be due to better development of root system, which increased the uptake of nutrients.\r\nIn case of rooting media, cocopeat along with perlite and vermicompost provided better aeration, moisture and nutrients to the cuttings, as cocopeat could store and release more nutrients to the cuttings of pomegranate for longer period (Raut et al., 2015). Vermicompost consists of nutrients, i.e., nitrates, phosphorus, potassium, calcium and magnesium in available forms for plant uptake and is good in water retention capacity (Khalighi and Padasht-Dehkaee, 2000). The use of different organic and inorganic substrates in appropriate proportion optimizes water and oxygen holding capacity and allows the plants to uptake nutrients better for sufficient growth and development (Bartczak et al., 2007; Albaho et al., 2008; Ayesha et al., 2011; Hesami et al., 2012). \r\n','Poonam Saini, R.K. Goyal, Hemant Saini and Pooja (2022). Effect of Planting Time, Rooting Hormone and different Rooting Media Combinations on Chlorophyll and Nutrient content of Leaves of Pomegranate Cuttings in Haryana conditions. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 14(3): 1164-1172.'),(5445,'136','Breeding Potential of Maize Land Races for Yield and Yield Contributing Characters','Mamatha B. , Sravani D., Sumalini K. and Vanisree S.','198 Breeding Potential of Maize Land Races for Yield and Yield Contributing Characters Mamatha B.pdf','',1,'Maize landraces constitute gene pool of unexplored alleles that can be exploited to mitigate the challenges of the narrowed genetic base, declined genetic gains and reduced resilience to abiotic stress in modern varieties developed by repeated recycling of few elite breeding lines. In the present study Combining ability analysis was conducted using 15 landraces obtained from NBPGR, Hyderabad and 3 inbreds of PJTSAU in line × tester design in maize (Zea mays L.) to broaden the genetic base of morphological and yield contributing characters. Three land races viz., IC 611611 and IC 623875 and IC 623877 and two testers BML-6 and BML-7 were good general combiners for grain yield. Of the nine specific crosses for grain yield, two crosses i.e. IC 623875 × BML-6 and IC 611611 × KML-109 had significant grain yield over the check and forwarded to get early maturing high yielding inbreds. The estimates of general combining ability and specific combining ability revealed the preponderance of non-additive gene action in controlling the studied traits.','Maize, combining ability, gene action, line × tester analysis','Present climate change scenario and scarcity of irrigation water emphasized the need of development of drought-tolerant maize of genotypes/base population that can perform reasonably well in drought-stress environments is the most important objective in any maize breeding programmes. Finally based on per se performance and sca effects, crosses i.e., IC 627708 × BML-6 IC 623875 × BML-6, IC623873 × BML-6 (grain yield) and IC 611611 × KML-109 (maturity) are to be forwarded to generate highly segregating lines with high grain yield and early maturity and these filial generations are to be screened for major biotic and abiotic stresses so that high yielding inbreds resistant to biotic and abiotic stresses will be obtained. ','INTRODUCTION \r\nMaize (Zea mays L.) is the third most important crop in India after rice and wheat and is cultivated round the year and grain is used as feed, food and industrial raw material. Maize production in India has increased more than 16 times from a mere 2 million tons in 1949-50 to 31.65 million tons in and presently it occupies 9.89 million hectare area with the mean yield of 3.19 tons/hectare (IndiaAgriStat.com) contributing to 9% of the Indian food basket. This achievement is remarkable despites ~75% maize is grown under rainfed and low input conditions in the country. It is being estimated that the demand for maize will continue to increase in view of increasing demand in poultry and livestock sectors in the country and growing non-vegetarian population and changing food habits. To meet the growing demand, enhancement of maize yield in coming years across all the growing locations in India is the big challenge in the era of climate change.\r\nLandraces are domesticated local varieties that have not developed through modern plant breeding programmes unlike cultivars. Landraces can be distinguished by specific morphological traits and had shown wide adaptability to biotic and abiotic stresses. They can constitute variable populations where variation can be observed between and within populations (Zeven, 1998).\r\nIn the global maize germplasm no dearth of favorable alleles was observed for improvement of yield, abiotic stress tolerance, disease resistance or nutritional quality. However, these desirable alleles are often scattered over a wide array of landraces or populations and there is a need to highlight the enormous genetic diversity found in maize, especially in the landraces and the wild relative, teosinte and novel and systematic initiatives has to be undertaken to understand and for utilization in the breeding programmes to develop biotic and abiotic stress resistant inbreds/hybrids (Bhupender et al., 2019).\r\nCombining ability analysis is of special importance in cross-pollinated crops like maize as it helps in identifying potential parents that can be used for producing hybrids and synthetics. The nature and magnitude of gene action is an important factor in developing an effective breeding program, which can be understood through combining ability analysis. Therefore, the present study was carried out to develop top crosses involving land races to estimate combining ability and to unravel the gene action governing yield and its components and drought tolerant traits.\r\nMATERIALS AND METHODS \r\nThe present study comprised of fifteen diverse maize germplasm lines viz. IC623875, IC636977, IC623877, IC623873, IC611611, IC611609, IC636965, IC 627707, IC 623879, IC611615, IC 623878, IC623880, IC627704, IC 627708 and IC 627705 collected from NBPGR, Hyderabad. These lines were crossed with three testers (BML-6, BML-7 and KML-109) in line × tester mating design during kharif, 2021. The resultant 45 F1 hybrids along with parents and five checks [Karimnagar makka, DHM 117, KMH-25K45, Bio-9544 and NK 6240] were evaluated in RBD in the field with three replications at ARS, Karimnagar during Rabi, 2021-22. Each entry was planted in two rows of 3 m length by following a spacing of 60 cm between rows and 20 cm between plants to plant. All the recommended agronomic package of practices was followed to raise a good crop. Data on fifteen quantitative characters i.e. plant height, ear height, ear length, ear girth, number of kernel rows and number of kernels per row, test weight (g) shelling percentage, SPAD chlorophyll content and stay green character were recorded on five randomly selected competitive plants in each replication while, days to 50 percent tasseling, days to 50 percent silking, anthesis-silking interval, days to maturity, and grain yield (kg/ha) and were recorded on plot basis. \r\nRESULTS AND DISCUSSION\r\nANOVA (Table 1) revealed significant genetic differences among the genotypes for all the quantitative traits under study which is a prerequisite for any crop improvement. Variance due to hybrids and parents were highly significant for all the studied traits except Anthesis – Silking Interval (ASI) indicating the manifestation of parental genetic variability in their crosses. Mean squares for parents Vs crosses were highly significant (at the 0.01 level of probability) for all the characters indicating the presence of heterosis and heterotic effects. The mean squares for hybrids were partitioned into three components viz., due to lines, due to testers and due to line × tester interactions and differences among hybrids due to lines were significant for days to maturity only and due to testers and line × tester interactions were significant for flowering and maturity traits, plant height, ear height, ear diameter, 100 kernel weight and grain yield. This suggested that testers and crosses are variable for morphological, yield and yield contributing traits and gca and sca played a significant role in the genetic expression of these traits. \r\n\r\nNon significant differences were observed in case of lines for all the traits except days to maturity. Although variation is non significant in lines i.e. maize land races crosses had shown significant variation for all the traits. This could be due to complimentary gene action of alleles at individual loci resulting in over dominance either in positive or negative or both the directions. Proportion of sca variance was higher than gca variance indicating possibility of exploitation of hybrids and preponderance of non additive gene action in governing the traits. Similar results were reported by Oppong Allen et al. (2019).\r\nThe estimates of GCA effects (Table 2) revealed that the lines IC 611611, IC 623875 and IC 624877 were good general combiners for grain yield. Line IC611611 was also a good general combiner for ear length, ear girth, number of kernel rows, number of kernels per row and 100 kernels weight apart from grain yield. For flowering and maturity traits six lines viz. IC 627704, IC 623880, IC 623878, IC 623879, IC 627707 and IC 623877 were found to be early general combiners. For kernel rows IC 636977, IC 623873, for 100 kernel weight IC 623877, for shelling percentage IC 627707 and for SPAD chlorophyll content IC 623878 were good general combiners.\r\nAmong the testers, BML-6 was good general combiner for ear diameter, number of kernel rows and number of kernels per row and BML-7 was good general combiner for thousand seed weight and SPAD chlorophyll content and for grain yield and plant height both were found to be good general combiners. For flowering, maturity traits and for shelling percentage KML-109 was a good general combiner.\r\nOf all the forty five hybrids tested, nine crosses had positive and significant effects for grain yield and among these, four crosses involving BML-6 as tester with four lines i.e. IC 623873, IC 623875, IC 636965 and IC 627708, three crosses involving BM-7 as tester with three lines i.e. IC 611615, IC 623878 and IC 623879 and two crosses viz. IC 611611 × KML-109 and IC 623878 × KML-109 were good specific combiners for grain yield (Table 3). Among these, three crosses namely IC 623873 × BML-6, IC 623878 × BML-7 and IC 627708 × BML-6 had shown positive and significant effects for ear and grain traits i.e. ear length, number of kernel rows, number of kernels per row and 100 kernel weight and the first two had positive and significant effects for ear diameter also. Remaining crosses except IC 611615 × BML-7 had positive and significant effects for either one or two of the ear traits. For SPAD chlorophyll content IC 623877 × BML-7 had positive and significant effect. All the nine crosses had either one or both parents as good general combiners for grain yield. It clearly indicated that possibility of good specific combinations by involving good general combiners for yield and yield attributing characters. \r\nFurther based on per se performance only four crosses IC 627708 × BML-6 IC 623875 × BML-6, IC623873 × BML-6 and IC 611611 × KML-109 had significant effects for grain yield with grain yields of 13178 kg/ha, 12634 kg/ha, 11933 kg/ha and 11654 kg/ha, respectively and the IC 611611 × KML-109 was an early hybrid. The high yields obtained from some of the crosses indicate the potential to raise yield substantially in maize landraces when crossed with suitable materials. Similar findings have been reported in other studies as reported by Dhillon et al., (2002); Prasanna, (2012). It revealed that one of the parent must be a good general combiner in the exploitation of land races for getting high yielding hybrids but not necessarily a good specific combiner.','Mamatha B., Sravani D., Sumalini K. and Vanisree S. (2022). Breeding Potential of Maize Land Races for Yield and Yield Contributing Characters. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 14(3): 1173-1178.'),(5446,'136','Using ARIMA Model to Forecast the Area, Yield and Production of Arhar in Odisha','Balaga Divya and Abhiram Dash','199 Using ARIMA Model to Forecast the Area, Yield and Production of Arhar in Odisha Abhiram Dash.pdf','',1,'Arhar is one of the important pulse crop of Odisha. It has very high nutritive value and thus contribute towards the nutritional security of the state. Forecasting of arhar production is very much necessary to enable the agriculture planners to formulate appropriate policies regarding the cultivation of the crop. The present research is carried out on forecasting area, yield and production of arhar in Odisha by using ARIMA model.\r\nARIMA, the most widely used model for forecasting is used in the study. The data on area, yield and production of arhar are collected from 1970-71 to 2019-20 are used to fit the models found suitable from ACF and PACF plots. The ACF and PACF plots are obtained from stationarized data. The best fit model was selected on basis of significance of estimated coefficients, model diagnostic tests and model fit statistics. The selected best fit model was cross validated by refitting the model by leaving last 5 years, 4 years, upto last 1 year data and obtaining one step ahead forecast for the years 2015-16 to 2019-20. After successful cross validation the selected best fit model is used for forecasting the area, yield and production of arhar in Odisha for the future years 2020-21, 2021-22, 2022-23.\r\nThe ARIMA model found to be best fit for area, yield and production of arhar are ARIMA(1,1,2), ARIMA(1,1,0), ARIMA(1,1,0) respectively. All these selected models are fitted without constant as the constant term is insignificant for all these cases. The forecast values shows that area, yield and production of arhar in Odisha remain stagnant in future years with variation in lower and upper class interval of the forecast values. \r\n','ARIMA, cross validation, forecast, model diagnostics, model fit statistics','ARIMA (1,1,2) without model, ARIMA (1,1,0) without constant model and ARIMA (1,1,0) without constant model are found to be the best fit model for area, yield and production of arhar in Odisha. These selected models are used for forecasting of area, yield and production of arhar in Odisha. The forecast values shows that area, yield and thus production of arhar in Odisha remain stagnant in future years with variation in lower and upper class interval of the forecast values. ','INTRODUCTION\r\nThe production of pulses plays a pivotal role in nutritional security as well as agrarian economy of the state of Odisha. The major pulses grown in Odisha are green gram, arhar, horse gram, etc. In Odisha the area under arhar is 130 thousand hectares and its production is 140 thousand MT contributing 7.02% and 10.76% of overall area and production of pulses in Odisha respectively [agricultural statistics at a glance, 2020]. In Odisha the cultivation of arharis concentrated in Cuttack, Puri, Kalahandi, Koraput, Dhenkanal, Balangir, Rayagada, Naupada and Sambalpur districts. Among them Ganjam district stands first with respect to area and production of arhar in Odisha.\r\nAs arhar occupies an important position among the pulse crops in Odisha, a timely and accurate forecast of area and production of such important pulse crops is valuable in terms of agricultural policy decisions and food and nutritional security of the people. Various researchers have been contributing in this area of research. Mishra et al. (2021) studied the trend in the production of total pulses in major growing states in India using ARIMA. Vishwajit et al. (2018) studied about the modelling and forecasting of arhar in major arhar growing states in India using ARIMA and other models. Shah et al. (2017) conducts a study to forecast the substantial food crop production in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, Pakistan; the secondary data were utilized by applying ARIMA forecasting strategy. They found that the outcome of the ARIMA model was sufﬁcient. The present study focuses on the forecasting the area, yield and production of arhar crop in Odisha using ARIMA models. Kumari et al. (2022) deals with comparison of different statistical models to predict area, production and yield of citrus in Gujarat state. The study revealed that ARIMA model was superior to explain the area, production and yield of citrus.\r\nMATERIALS AND METHODS\r\nThe secondary data on area, yield and production of arhar are collected for the state of Odisha (kharif and rabi seasons combined) for the period 1970-71 to 2019-20 from Five Decades of Odisha Agriculture Statistics published by Directorate of Agriculture and Food Production, Odisha. \r\nAutoregressive Integrated moving Average is a statistical model which is used to predict the future trends. The ARMA models, which includes the order of differencing (which is to stationarize the data) is known as Autoregressive integrated moving average (ARIMA) models. A non-seasonal ARIMA model is classified as an \"ARIMA (p,d,q)\" model, where, the parameters p,d,q are the non-negative integers where p is the number of autoregressive terms, d is the number of nonseasonal differences necessary for stationarizing the data, and q is the number of moving average terms.\r\nThus, the ARIMA (p,d,q) model can be represented y the following general forecasting equation:\r\nY_t=μ+∑_(i=1)^p▒〖α_i Y_(t-i)+ ∑_(j=1)^q▒〖θ_j ε_(t-j)+ε_t 〗〗\r\nWhereμ is a mean,α_1,α_2,…..α_pand θ_1,θ_2,……θ_jare the parameters of the model, p is the order of autoregressive term and q is the order of moving average term and ε_t ,ε_(t-1),..ε_(t-j) are noise error terms.\r\nModel identification:\r\nThe ARIMA model is estimated only if the data under study is stationary, it can be tested by using Augmented Dickey-Fuller test. If it is not stationary then it should be converted into stationary series by differencing the data at suitable lag. Usually the data is stationarized after 1 or 2 differencing. After stationarizing the data, the Auto Correlation Factor(ACF) and Partial Auto Correlation Factor(PACF) plots are used to identify tentative Auto Regression (AR) and Moving Average (MA) orders. Various tentative models based on identified AR and MA orders are fitted and parameters are estimated. After fitting the tentative models normality and independency of the residuals of the fitted models is tested by using Shapiro-Wilk’s test and Box-pierce test respectively. Then the tentative models satisfying the normality and independency of residuals are compared by using the model fit statistics such as mean absolute percentage error(MAPE), root mean square error(RMSE) and Akaike’s Information criteria corrected (AICc) which are mathematically as follows:\r\nRoot mean square error (RMSE): √((∑_(T=1)^n▒(y ̂_t-y_t )^2 )/n)\r\nMean absolute percentage error (MAPE): 100/n ∑_(t=1)^n▒|(y_t-y ̂_t)/y_t | (Mishra, et al., 2020)\r\nWhere y ̂_t= forecasted value, y_t= actual value and n = number of times the summation iteration happens\r\nAkaike’s information criteria corrected (AICc): AIC + (〖2K〗^2+2K)/(n-k-1)\r\nWhere k denotes the number of parameters and n denotes the sample size.\r\nThe model with lowest RMSE, MAPE and AICc values is selected as the best fit ARIMA model among selected tentative models and it is taken for forecasting.\r\nRESULTS AND DISCUSSION\r\nThe data on area, yield and production of arhar crop was tested for the presence of stationarity by using Augmented Dickey Fuller test and the results are presented in Table 1. The test results confirmed that the data was not stationary and made stationary by differencing at lag 2. \r\nThe next step was to identify the order of AR and MA terms such as p and q using the ACF and PACF plots. Different tentative models were identified using the orders of AR and MA terms. Figs. 1, 2 and 3 shows the ACF and PACF plots of first order difference of area, yield and production of arhar crop in Odisha.\r\nThe tentative models of area and their estimated coefficients along with error measures are shown in the Table 2. The study of the table reveals that ARIMA(1,1,2) without constant model has all the estimated coefficients significant.\r\nTable 3 shows the model diagnostics test and model fit statistics for the fitted ARIMA models. ARIMA (1,1,2) model satisfies both the test of normality and independency of residuals. Thus this model is selected to be the best fit model for area under arhar crop. \r\nThe tentative ARIMA models of yield and their estimated coefficients along with error measures are shown in the Table 4. The study of the table reveals that ARIMA (1,1,0) and ARIMA (0,1,1) without constant model has all the estimated coefficients significant.\r\nTable 5 shows the model diagnostics test and model fit statistics for the fitted ARIMA models for yield of arhar. ARIMA (1,1,0) without constant model satisfies both the test of normality and independency of residuals. The RMSE, MAPE and AICc are less for ARIMA (1,1,0) without constant model. Thus, this model is selected to be the best fit model for production of arhar crop. Fig. 5 also shows that none of the autocorrelations and partial autocorrelations of residuals are significant. This further confirms the selection of the respective best fit models.\r\nThe tentative models of production and their estimated coefficients along with error measures are shown in the Table 6. The study of the table reveals that ARIMA (0,1,1) and ARIMA (1,1,0) constant model has the estimated coefficients significant.\r\nTable 7 shows the model fit statistics and model diagnostics test for the fitted ARIMA models for production of arhar. ARIMA (1,1,0) with constant model satisfies both the test of normality and independency of residuals. Thus this model is selected to be the best fit model for production of arhar crop.\r\nCross Validation. In the following table, we have done stepwise cross validation by considering the best fitted ARIMA model of respective variables of arhar crop of Odisha. The APE(absolute percentage error) of area under arhar is found to be in the range between 0 to 11 and the MAPE(mean APE) is found to be 3.8544 for area under arhar crop. Similarly for yield the APE range is found between 0.5 to 13 and MAPE is 5.688 and that for production, APE range is between 1 to 17 and MAPE is 5.0659. These results shows that the selected ARIMA models are successfully cross validated.\r\nThe appropriate ARIMA models which are represented in the previous tables were used to forecast the area, yield and production of arhar crop in Odisha for the years 2020-21, 2021-22 and 2022-23.\r\n','Balaga Divya and Abhiram Dash (2022). Using ARIMA Model to Forecast the Area, Yield and Production of Arhar in Odisha. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 14(3): 1179-1185.'),(5447,'136','Expanding Host Range of Papaya Leaf Curl Virus (PLCV) into Agricultural Crops and Weeds Species','Pratibha Pant, Prashant Pant and Sandip L. Patel','200 Expanding Host Range of Papaya Leaf Curl Virus _PLCV_ into Agricultural Crops and Weeds Species PRASHANT PANT.pdf','',1,'The papaya leaf curl virus (PLCV) (genus Begomovirus, family Geminiviridae) poses a major constraint to papaya production, as it causes one of the most predominant and economically important disease affecting papaya in the Indian sub-continent. The virus has been fast extending its host range worldwide. In the last decade, extensive research on the genome sequence, structure and function, encoded protein functions, recombinant studies, and plant–virus interactions have been conducted. Special emphasis has been given to genome structure, genetic variability, and recombination studies as well as on plant defense strategies. These studies have provided new insights in the host range, host adaptation, and evolution of the virus and the structural differences between the new and the old-world complexes. Understanding the rapid expansion of plant viruses in general and begomoviruses in particular is a major challenge that needs to be studied in greater details to devise measures for crop protection in future to come. It has been established that plant viruses are spreading at an alarming rate as suggested by the rapid genome evolution and high dN/dS rates (nucleotide substitution rate). This paper highlights the host expansion of PLCV over a period of two decades (2000 to 2020) where PLCV has shown tendency to evolve from a host specific virus to a more generalist begomovirus infecting a range of hosts that are of agricultural and/or horticultural importance and a number of weed species. The full-length genomic sequence of begomoviral PLCV isolates from non-papaya hosts are analyzed using MEGA 11.0. From the molecular phylogenetic analyses and percent identity matrix, it is shown that there is a clear sub-division of these begomoviral PLCV infecting non-papaya host species into an Indian group consisting of sequences from India as well as Pakistan and on the other hand, the China Group consisting of sequences reported from China, Taiwan and Vietnam. The distribution of these begomoviral isolates used in this study showed a clear discernable pattern based on geographical proximity. Thus, the present work indicates evolution of PLCV strains infecting a number of angiosperm families into two major groups based on their nucleotide sequence similarity. ','Papaya Leaf Curl Virus (PLCV), Begomovirus, Geminiviridae, Host expansion','The host range is expanding at an alarming rate and this is true for almost all begomoviral complexes. The switching from being a specialist to a generalist requires immediate attention for developing strategies to ensure that the virus remains restricted and limited to fewer host and shorter stretches of phytogeographical regions. The expansion of viral strains from papaya to agricultural crops and vice-versa is becoming increasingly common which indicates general expansion in the host range which might be contributed also by the host expansion on which the vector whitefly feeds on, thus enabling the virus to spread far and wide, and providing more chances of recombination than ever. Furthermore, begomoviral complexes are showing recombination events frequently occurring in nature beginning from mixed infection as well as by general crossover events where parental strains recombine to produce more virulent strains against which the host plants are highly susceptible. Such rapid genomic changes are detrimental to agricultural crops. This study presents a succinct review on the current scenario of begomoviral complexes reported in the sequence database and their inter-relatedness among them. The results obtained clearly show clustering of strains primarily based on geographical proximity, followed by host specificity. This kind of clustering supports that within a geographical region the viral strains are infecting larger group of plant families attributed to both vector expansion of host and recombination events. Further research is required to be done in the aspects of strategies for development of mechanism of resistance in host plants as well as in viral genome and evolution, to help understand how host plants can be reinforced with sufficient strategies to cope with the increasing prevalence of viral infection and thus enabling the farmers to effectively control the disease spread. ','INTRODUCTION\r\nGeographical Distribution, Host Range and Epidemics. Since the time when the first virus disease in papaya was described in 1929 from Jamaica (Smith, 1929), a number of diseases in papaya caused by different groups of plant viruses have been reported from papaya-producing areas in the world as a major limiting factor for papaya cultivation and papaya production (Adsuar, 1946; Capoor and Verma, 1948; Harkness, 1960; Lastra and Quintero, 1981; Wan and Conover, 1983; Chandra and Samuel, 1999). Among the different viruses infecting papaya, papaya ring spot diseases caused by Papaya Ring Spot Virus (PRSV) of family Potyviridae and papaya leaf curl disease caused by Papaya Leaf Curl Virus (PLCV) of family Geminiviridae cause major threat for papaya production in India and other papaya growing countries (Chitra et al., 2019; Reena et al., 2022). \r\nOut of PRSV and PLCV, latter is an important constraint to papaya production in particular, as it causes one of the most predominant and economically important diseases affecting several varieties of papaya in the Indian subcontinent. Papaya leaf curl disease was reported for the first time in India in 1939 by Thomas from Madras. The virus causes devastating disease of papaya characterized by upward or downward leaf curling, leaf crinkling and crumpling of leaves, vein clearing and thickening, yellow mottling, leaf puckering, blistering of leaves and general deformation of leaves. In the later stages of the infection, plants appear stunted with shortened internodes and show impaired fruit setting, leading to complete crop loss (Singh-Pant et al., 2012). In recent years, incidence and severity of leaf curl disease is increasing in papaya fields in India (Nariani, 1956; Saxena et al., 1998a-c) resulting in severe economic losses.\r\nIn recent years, incidence of PLCV infection has been reported from different regions of the world in papaya as well as in a number of species of agricultural, horticultural importance and in a number of weed species too. Table 1 shows the countries from where the PLCV has been reported till date.Earlier epidemics of PLCV were reported from Asian and African Countries with majority reports coming from India, Pakistan, China, Bangladesh, Thailand, Sudan, Egypt, and some other countries.\r\nThe papaya leaf curl virus (PLCV) is a monopartite begomovirus species belonging to Genus Begomovirus, Family Geminiviridae and is transmitted by white fly Bemisia tabaci (Gennadius) as the vector for virus transmission (Nariani, 1956). It has a circular, single stranded DNA (2.7Kbapprox.) called DNA-A (Saxena et al., 1998b). The PLCV genome is occasionally found to be associated with smaller DNA molecule called Alpha and Beta Satellites of 1.3Kb size approximately (Saxena et al., 1998a-c). \r\nPLCV has been recently reported to diversify its host range from Papaya to seasonal vegetable crops and other fibre crops (Varun and Saxena 2018). Generally, the Gemini viruses associate with a specific host for its multiplication and hence, infection. However, the host specificity is now being reported by many workers to be evolving into host non-specificity or a broader range of host specificity indicating expanding viral genome base over time. Such a host range expansion indicates evolution in the viral genome to diversify and thus establish infection into other crops which were earlier considered begomoviral non-host species. The situation has been rapidly changing as the virus is now fast spreading to larger stretch of these geographical regions and expanding its host range. The virus has an extensive host range now and is found in a number of host plants including many weeds. The virus infects Nicotiana tabacum (tobacco), Lycopersicon esculentum (tomato), Crotalaria juncea (sun hemp), Capsicum spp. (Chilli), Petunia, Zinnia, and Daturastramonium, Ageratum, Cucurbits, Soybean (Jaidi et al., 2015); Jatropa (More et al., 2019) and other vegetable crops.\r\n The host range extension also indicates virus selecting for alternate hosts as a survival mechanism. Further, switching of the PLCV between perennial host (such as papaya) to seasonal host (such as agricultural crops) has enabled the virus to be a bigger threat to the crop growers and to the crop yield over time. Also, viral infection and viral load in weeds or in agricultural or horticultural crops may play a possible role as a reservoir host in transmission of this virus. The expansion of the virus is thus becoming rapid and effective over time and space. The present paper discusses the expanding host range of PLCV over the last two decades into non-papaya host species and tries to discern underlying patterns of their rapid host expansion in the last two decades. \r\nMATERIALS AND METHODS\r\nBegomoviral PLCV isolates (full length and betasatellites) reported from non-papaya host were obtained from NCBI GenBank Database. NCBI website was accessed between 01.06.2021 to 25.10.2021. Full-length DNA-A genomic component sequences and Beta-satellite sequences are available for isolates of PLCV infection reported from different cultivated plant species as well as weeds. Table 2 summarizes the various full length begomoviral PLCV isolates reported from host species other than Papaya. Table 3 summarizes the PLCV Betasatellites isolates reported from non-papaya host species.\r\nNucleotide sequence used in the study. A total of 109 full length begomoviral PLCV isolates were obtained from NCBI GenBank (www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/nucleotide). Out of these 109, only 09 sequences belonged to PLCV reported from Papaya from different regions. These09PLCV isolates from papaya were randomly selected as reference sequence for the purpose of standard referencing and comparison based on sequence similarity. Remaining 100 sequences are full length begomoviral PLCV isolates reported from non-papaya host species as mentioned in Table 2. The accession number and the species from where these are reported is mentioned in Table 2. These 109 sequences were subjected to same treatment and were used in all downstream analyses. \r\nPercent Identity Matrix(PIM) Analyses. The 109 full length begomoviral PLCV sequences were subjected to percent identity matrix analyses using Mega 11.0 version (available at www.megasoftware.net; Tamura et al., 2021). The percentage identity so obtained was manually color coded using the scheme: Green color for all the pairs with 97% and above identity, Yellow color for all the pairs with 96.99%-90% identity, Blue color for 89.99%-.80% and Red color for all the pairs for 79.99% and less. \r\nMultiple Sequence Alignment. The entire dataset of 109 full length begomoviral PLCV sequences as mentioned earlier were converted to FASTA format and subjected to multiple sequence alignment (MSA) using Clustal W package (Thompson et al., 1994) built in the MEGA 11.0 software (Tamura et al., 2021). The sequences were truncated at the start of the sequences for making an equal length alignment with a total of 2937 positions (including gaps). \r\nPhylogenetic Tree Construction. The multiple sequence alignment file was subjected to phylogenetic and molecular evolutionary analyses using MEGA version 11 (Tamura et al., 2021). The parameters deployed in phylogenetic analyses were: Statistical method: (ML) Maximum Likelihood; Test of Phylogeny: Bootstrap Method; No. of Bootstrap Replications: 1000; Substitutions Type: Nucleotides, Model/Method: Tamura-Nei Method; Rates among sites: Gamma Distributes with invariant sites (G+I); No. of discreet gamma categories: 5; Gap/missing data treatment: use all sites; Select codon positions: Tick all; ML Heuristic method: Nearest-Neighbour Exchange (NNI); Initial Tree for ML: Make initial tree automatically; Branch Swap Filter: None; Number of threads: 3. It took nearly 38 hours to complete the phylogenetic tree construction. The ML tree thus obtained was saved in PNG format for further analyses.\r\nRESULTS AND DISCUSSIONS\r\nBegomoviral PLCV reported from non-papaya host species. Table 2 depicts the begomoviral PLCV sequences reported in the NCBI GenBank database that have been found to cause leaf curl disease of plant species other than papaya. \r\nPLCV, like most monopartite begomoviruses is involved in the major disease complexes affecting various crops in the “Old World” causing diseases in a number of plants belonging to (but not limited to) families including Asteraceae, Amaranthaceae, Apocynaceae, Solanaceae, Euphorbiaceae, Fabaceae, Gentianaceae, Malvaceae, Passifloraceae, Saliacaceae, Acanthaceae, Brassicaceae. The effects are economically most devastating in Solanaceae. PLCV complex initially reported in Papaya crops is now affecting vegetable and other crops along with a number of weeds. It has been documented that PLCV infects 29 different plant species as reported in Table 2. These reports of PLCV infecting non-papaya species has been reported from Bangladesh, China, India, Indonesia, Iran, Italy, Malaysia, Pakistan, Sri Lanka, Spain, Taiwan, Thailand, Tunisia & Vietnam. Table 3 summarizes Betasatellites associated with PLCV reported from non-papaya host species. These species from where DNA Betasatellites have been reported belong to agriculturally important species such as grain legumes (Vigna radiata),Tomato, and some weed species such as Parthenium hysterophorus (Kumar et al., 2016) and Pseuderanthemum reticulatum. \r\nIn 2003, the association of PLCV with leaf curl disease on non-papaya host was reported for the first timeby Mansoor et al. (2003a-b). Subsequently, over the period 2003-2020, PLCV was identified in 29 different species belonging to 12 angiosperm families. Out of these, most reports belong to Ageratum conyzoides (Asteraceae), Capsicum annuum (Bell pepper) (Kim et al., 2018), Lycopersicon esculentum (Solanaceae), Nicotiana sp., (Solanaceae). These reports are mainly from India, China and Pakistan. Meanwhile, this virus has spread to various parts of the Indian sub-continent, expanding its host range drastically. Between 2000 and 2020, besides tomato, PLCV has been reported to be associated to infections of various hosts such as Amaranthus cruentus, Calendula officinalis, Calotropis procera, Capsicum sp., Catharanthus roseus, Codiaeum variegatum, Corchoropsis timentosa, Crotalaria juncea, Croton bonplandianum, Cyamopsis tetragonoloba, Eclipta prostrata, Euphorbia pulcherrima, Eustoma grandiflorum, Capsicum annuum (Bell pepper), Glycine max, Gossypium sp., Vigna radiata, Kalimeris indica, Nicotiana glutinosa, Nicotiana tabacum, Parthenium hysterophorus, Passiflora sp., Physalis peruviana, Populus alba, Pseuderantheum reticulatum, Raphanus sativus and Rhynchosia capitata (Table 2). \r\nThis expansion of the PLCV into a number of plant families affecting so many species of economic importance is alarming. Over two decades, this virus in particular has managed to infect such a range of species belonging to 12 angiosperm families suggest higher rates of recombinations and massive spread of the virulent strain by the vector Bemisia tabaci. The virus in itself can now be considered a broad-spectrum generalist as it is now found in large phytogeographical region infecting so many host species that it seems tolose its host specificity. Such a huge expansion can also indicate that the begomoviral complex may become more detrimental to the original host Papaya which is under threat due to a number of viral diseases apart from PLCV. \r\nPercent Identity Matrix Analyses of the Begomoviral PLCV reported from non-papaya host species along with selected begomoviral PLCV reported from papaya. S1 (supplementary table) shows the percent identity matrix of the 109 full length begomoviral PLCV sequences reported from non-papaya host species as well as from papaya. As mentioned earlier, the percentage identity so obtained was color coded as per the following scheme: green color for all the pairs with 97% and above identity, Yellow color for all the pairs with 96.99%-90% identity, Blue color for 89.99%-.80% and Red color for all the pairs for 79.99% and less. Accordingly, a general study of S1indicates that the entire dataset of the sequences can be divided into following 02 sub-groups: a.) China Group that contains sequences reported from China, Vietnam, and Taiwan (Sr. No. 1-54) of S1and b.) Indian Groupthat contains sequences reported from India and Pakistan (Sr. No. 55-109) of S1. \r\nWithin the China group (Sr. 1-55), majority of the pair-wise percent sequence identity lies in the yellow coded regionindicating that most sequences within the China group have percentage identity of 90% to 96.99%. It is worth mentioning that within the China group, the sequences have been reported from a number of different non-papaya host species such as Tomato, Ageratum, Eclipta, Tobacco, Passiflora, Corchoropsis, Euphorbia which are having a sequence identity lying in yellow color-coded region i.e., 96.99%-90% identity. This is followed by Red color coded region i.e. an identity percent of 79.99% and less. These values clearly indicate sequence divergence to a large extent within the China group indicating multiple parental types of PLCV strains from where they have spread into multiple host species.\r\nInterestingly, within the Indian group, majority of the pair-wise percent sequence identity lies in the redcolor-coded region i.e. percentage identity of 79.99% or less. This is followed by second largest set of pair wise similarity lying in the blue color-coded region i.e. percentage identity in the range of 80-89.99% (S1). This result indicates very high divergence mainly due to higher frequency of recombination between very different parental types of PLCV strains that have resulted in a such a lower range of percentage identity within the Indian group (Sr. No. 55 onwards) of S1. It further indicates that not only the Indian group is slightly more divergent in its sequence composition within, but it is also more divergent than the China group, as the latter has most pairwise identity lying in yellow followed by red region. Also, within the Indian Group, the non-papaya host species reported are way more than the China Group with Tomato, Jatropha, Calendula, Croton, Radish, Cluster bean, Populus, Codiaeum, Crotalaria, Rhynchosia, Cotton, Physalis, Cestrum, Capsicum, Catharanthus, Soybean, Cape Gooseberry, Aster, Amaranthus as the major host species reported from India and Pakistan. This trend indicates geographical distribution as one of the factors behind such a stratification of the entire dataset into China and Indian group, with China, Vietnam and Taiwan grouping together and India and Pakistan grouping as one in the pairwise sequence identity matrix analysis. Further, the occurrence of lower percentage identity is suggestive of higher recombination rates and multiple parental types being responsible for the outbreak into non-papaya host species. \r\nMultiple Sequence Alignment of the Begomoviral PLCV reported from non-papaya host species and papaya. Multiple Sequence Alignment of approx. 2736 bp long nearly full length 109 begomoviral PLCV (data not shown) revealed multiple conserved sites ranging from 10-20 bases at different intervals flanked by hypervariable regions. These highly conserved regions belong to Coat Protein (CP) or the AV1 genes and other highly conserved Inter-genic Regions (IR)/ Common Regions (CR), containing repeat sequences or Iterons and conserved putative regulatory TATA boxes regions as has been reported by other workers (Singh-Pant et al., 2012; Stanley, 1995; Hanley-Bowdoin et al., 1999). \r\nPhylogenetic analyses of the full length Begomoviral PLCV sequences used in this study. Fig. 1 is the Maximum Likelihood (ML) based phylogenetic tree obtained from MEGA 11.0 (Tamura et al., 2021). In the phylogenetic tree so obtained, in a similar fashion as was indicated in the percent identity matrix (S1), here also the entire dataset could be sub-grouped into two major clusters i.e.the sequences reported from China, Vietnam and Taiwan hereinafter referred to as China Group and sequences reported from India and Pakistan hereinafter referred to as the Indian Group of begomoviral PLCV. The tree indicated a similar trend of sequences from different host species reported from China, Vietnam and Taiwan grouping together in multiple clusters with branches and sub-branches. Interestingly, in majority of the cases although with some exceptions, all begomoviral PLCV sequences reported from a single (non-papaya) host species were together suggesting common lineage or proximity with each other in space and time during vector mediated transmission occurring between different host species present proximally resulting in such trends. Similarly, all the sequences reported from different host species (excluding papaya ones) from India and Pakistan clustered together in a similar fashion, where in majority of cases, sequences from same species were clustered together but in some cases sequences from different species also shared the same node suggesting close relationship mainly due to direct vector transmission of the PLCV strain between the different host species. A novel strain PLCrV clustered together in the middle of the tree with no sub-branching with any other PLCV and shared the common node with the Indian group of sequences. This indicates that PLCrV is highly distinct from the rest of the begomoviral sequences. Within the Indian group, two distinct clusters can be observed, one containing majority of sequences reported from different host species in India and the other consisting of sequences reported from multiple different host species reported from Pakistan. Although in both these distinct group within the Indian group, cross-contamination of either of the two sub-groups is commonly seen. Yet, it is conclusive evidence of certain sequences being phylogenetically and molecularly more similar or parallelly evolved than the China group. \r\nRecombination in begomoviruses as a cause and effect of host expansion. In Geminiviruses, genomic diversification and evolution has been driven by recombination events. Such phenomenon results in emergence of new recombinant viral strains. With recombinant strains comes greater biological fitness in view of higher degree of virulence as compared to their parental types from where they have been derived. Such recombinant viral strains naturally outcompete the host plant resistance strategies (Monci et al., 2002). Natural genetic recombination events are common in geminiviruses, and these occur among strains, species and even within and across genera although rarely (Bisaro, 1996; Padidam et al., 1999). It has also been reported that in many cases, geminiviruses occur as mixed infections with two or more virusesleading to increased viral DNA accumulation and increased symptom severity (Harrison and Robinson, 1999). Vector mediated transmission mainly by Whitefly is another factor contributing to recombination and its increasing host range on which it can feed on increases virus spread into a large number of species (Padidam et al., 1999). Recombination events has negative effects on the quality of the reconstructed phylogenetic tree (Posada and Crandall, 2002; Ruths and Nakhleh, 2005). Hence recombination detection must be done to ensure accurate phylogenetic analyses and to understand parental type recombination and mechanisms of virus diversification. \r\n','Pratibha Pant, Prashant Pant and Sandip L. Patel (2022). Expanding Host Range of Papaya Leaf Curl Virus (PLCV) into Agricultural Crops and Weeds Species. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 14(3): 1186-1197.'),(5448,'136','A Study on the Extent of Social Participation among the Rural Youth of Andhra Pradesh','Sudhamini Yedida, P.P. Murugan, Asokhan M. and Arun Kumar G.','201 A Study on the Extent of Social Participation among the Rural Youth of Andhra Pradesh Sudhamini Yedida.pdf','',1,'The present study deals with the social participation of rural youth. The rural youth comprise about seventy-five percent of the total youth population in India. They were the soul of nation’s development. It delivers a need to study about the characteristics of the rural youth. An Ex-post facto research design was adopted for the study. Tirupathi and Kuppam mandals from Chittoor district and Kakinada Rural and Rajahmundry Rural mandals from East Godavari district were selected as they occupy the first two places in the context of rural population of the district. The limitations of time and resources was majorly faced during the study. A sample size of 240 was selected for the study. From each district 120 respondents were selected. The limitations of time and resources were majorly faced during the study. The study revealed that nearly three-fifth (58.33 per cent) of the respondents have medium level of social participation followed 21.67 per cent of the respondents with low and 20 per cent of the respondents with high level of social participation. Thus, the study exhibited the level of social participation among the rural youth and the need to improve it.','Social participation, rural youth, situational awareness, Andhra Pradesh','From the above results it is evident that nearly three-fifth (58.33 per cent) of the respondents have medium level of social participation followed by little above one-fifth (21.67 per cent) and one-fifth (20 per cent) of the respondents with low and high level of social participation respectively. The social participation of the rural youth needs to be enhanced. The situational awareness about various social institutions and their advantages needs to be boosted among the rural youth by the government and private extension professionals to harness the benefit of demographic dividend. They should be frequently encouraged to engage themselves in social activities. Active participation in all the social activities conducted in the village is needed by the rural youth rather than mere passive presence.','INTRODUCTION\r\nIndia is the second most populous country in the world and likely to cross China to become the first. India is one of the countries with youngest population with about more than fifty percent of the population were under 25 years of age and above sixty five percent under the age of 65 years. India relies on its young minds for the progress and development. This fact infers the need to study the characteristics of youth. Youth can be categorized into rural and urban based on their living habitat. Rural youth constitute nearly 70 per cent of the total youth in India. The present study deals with the extent of social participation among the rural youth. Social participation refers to the involvement of youth in social activities. Social participation is broadly defined as a person’s involvement in activities that provide interaction with others (Levasseur et al., 2010; James et al., 2011). The extent of participation of rural youth in the social activities often influences various characteristics of the rural youth that impact their socio-economic development. The past studies were reviewed on the aspect to gain some insights. Patidar (2012) reported that the majority of youths found to no participation group followed by partial and high social participation group. Mbah et al. (2016) found that majority (87.50 per cent) of the rural youth did not belong to any formal organization, While, 12.50 per cent belonged to formal organizations. Chachere (2018) studied the attitude of rural youth towards farming and stated that nearly two-third of the rural youth (63.75 per cent) possessed medium level of social participation followed by 25.00 per cent with low level of social participation and 11.25 per cent with high level of social participation. Vihari (2018) analyzed the perception of rural youth towards agriculture as occupation and inferred that more than two-fifth of the rural youth (40.83 per cent) possessed low social participation followed by medium (32.50 per cent) and high level of social participation (26.67 per cent). Shivaji (2019) conducted a study on participation of rural youth in agriculture and noted more than two-fifth of the rural youth (43.33 per cent) possessed low level of social participation followed by medium (39.17 per cent) and high level of social participation (17.50 per cent). Kavinila (2020) found that more than half of the rural youth entrepreneurs (53.33 per cent) possessed high level of social participation followed by more than one-third (35.71 per cent) with medium level of social participation and nearly one-tenth 10.95 per cent with low level of social participation. An attempt was made to analyze the social participation of rural youth in Andhra Pradesh. The situational awareness about various social institutions and their advantages is to be enhanced among the rural youth by the government and private extension professionals to harness the benefit of demographic dividend.\r\nMATERIALS AND METHODS\r\nAn Ex-post facto research design was adopted for the study. The ex-post facto research design is a systematic empirical enquiry in which the researcher does not have any direct control of independent variables and are not manipulable. Andhra Pradesh state comprises of majorly two regions namely, Coastal Andhra and Rayalaseema. Coastal Andhra is comprised of 9 districts and Rayalaseema with 4 districts. Two districts were selected for the study each from Coastal Andhra and Rayalaseema. East Godavari district was selected from Coastal Andhra and Chittoor district was selected from Rayalaseema purposively.\r\nTwo mandals from each district was purposively selected for the study based on the rural population. Tirupathi and Kuppam mandals from Chittoor district and Kakinada Rural and Rajahmundry Rural mandals from East Godavari district were selected as they occupy the first two places in the context of rural population of the district. Five villages from each mandal were purposively selected based on the same criteria followed for the mandal selection. Thus, a total of 20 villages were selected from the four mandals of the two districts. A sample size of 240 was selected for the study. From each district 120 respondents were selected. The respondents were selected using proportionate random sampling method from the mandals and villages based on the rural population.\r\nSocial Participation of the rural youth was operationalized as the degree of participation of rural youth in various social activities and meetings. Social participation of the respondents was analysed using a well-structured and pre tested schedule through personal interview method. There are 5 items in Social Participation. They were Grama Sabha, Political Meeting. Rural Youth club meetings, Religious gatherings, SHG/ FPO / Farm meetings. The frequency of participation of the rural youth was measured as Regularly, Occasionally and Never over Grama Sabha, Political meeting, Rural Youth club meeting, religious gatherings and SHG/FPO/Farm meetings was measured and scores of 3, 2, and 1 were given respectively. Based on the overall score obtained in all the items, respondents were categorized into Low, Medium and High with regard to their Mean and S.D. \r\nThe data was collected through personal interview method using a well-structed and pre-tested schedule.\r\nRESULTS AND DISCUSSION\r\nThe data collected was tabulated, analysed using statistical techniques and inferences were drawn. The results of the study were presented here in Table 1.\r\nThe extent of participation of the rural youth was measured as Regularly, Occasionally and Never and scores of 3, 2, and 1 were allotted respectively. Mean score of each item was calculated and the items were ranked based on their mean score and presented in the Table 2.\r\nAn over view of the Table 1 and 2 depicts that the respondents majorly involved in the Religious Gatherings followed by Grama Sabha with a mean score of 2.204 and 2.117 respectively. Being the villages situated in East Godavari and Chittoor districts having religious importance and cultural heritage, the rural youth involved themselves in devotional activities and religious meetings. In all the selected villages Grama Sabha was frequently conducted by the Village President and other Panchayat officials in which all the villagers including rural youth participate actively to discuss about the needs and problems of their village. \r\nBased on the overall score obtained by a respondent in social participation the respondents were categorized into low, medium and high categories according to their mean and standard deviation. The results were furnished in Table 3 and graphically represented in Fig. 1.\r\nIt was evident from the Table 3 that nearly three-fifth (58.33 per cent) of the respondents have medium level of social participation followed by little above one-fifth (21.67 per cent) and one-fifth (20 per cent) of the respondents with low and high level of social participation respectively.\r\nA critical view of the table revealed that above three-fourth (78.33 per cent) of the respondents had medium to high level of social participation. The probable reason for this trend might be that being born and grew up in joint type of families with more than 4 family members, the rural youth naturally developed the habit to mingle with other people in the society, attend meetings and gatherings and participate in the social activities. Thus, majority of the respondents had moderate to high level of social participation. \r\nThe salient findings of the study were in line with results of Harra (2015); Chouhan (2018); Gedam (2019) who also revealed that majority of the respondents possessed medium level of social participation followed by low and high levels.\r\n','Sudhamini Yedida, P.P. Murugan, Asokhan M. and Arun Kumar G. (2022). A Study on the Extent of Social Participation among the Rural Youth of Andhra Pradesh. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 14(3): 1198-1201.'),(5449,'136','An Exploratory Study on Weather Advisory Services Exposure among the Mango Growers of Tamil Nadu','Arun Kumar G., R. Jansi Rani, M. Asokhan and Sudhamini Yedida','202 An Exploratory Study on Weather Advisory Services Exposure among the Mango Growers of Tamil Nadu Arun Kumar G.pdf','',1,'Mangoes are mostly grown in India in tropical and subtropical areas between sea level and 1,500 m above sea level. Around 27 °C is the ideal temperature for mango growth. In India, there are over 1,000 different varieties of mango available. Due to climate variability the pest and disease occurrences increasing uncontrollably and affects the mango grower’s income level largely. It is important that farmers should know the weather related informations to act accordingly to avoid yield losses. The study used an ex-post facto research design. Ex-post facto research is an organised empirical study in which the researcher has no direct influence over the independent variables. Krishnagiri district was purposively selected for this study as it ranks first in area and production of mango. A sample size of 100 was selected for the study. The results concluded that nearly four-fifth of the farmers (79 per cent) had medium level of exposure to weather advisory services, 15 per cent of the farmers had low level of exposure to weather advisory services and very meagre amount of the farmers (6 per cent) had high level of exposure to weather advisory services.','Weather advisory services, mango growers, climate variability','It is concluded from the study that 79 per centhad medium level of exposure to weather advisory services, followed by 15 per cent of the farmers with low level of exposure to weather advisory services and very meagre amount of the farmers (6 per cent) had high level of exposure to weather advisory services. Mango being a commercial fruit crop with greater export potential can give good returns if precautionary planning had been done. In the district a large number of pulping industries were present which takes only good quality fruits. The yield of the mango could be widely affected by weather abnormalities. Intercultural operations like spraying, dusting should be planned according to rain predictions. Harvesting of the fruits should be done based on rains and wind velocity. Stronger and faster winds at the time of fruit ripening could increase the fruit fall. Thus, following weather updates can improve quality and quantity of the mangoes harvested. Since only a few respondents had high exposure to weather advisory services there is immense need to increase their exposure and utilization of weather advisory services. The extension agencies could encourage the farmers to avail weather advisory services by illustrating the need and advantages of the services.','INTRODUCTION\r\nMango botanically called as Mangifera indica belongs to the family Anacardiaceae. India is the world\'s largest producer of mango producing around 20 million tonnes of mango per year. It is termed as the King of fruits because of its rich nutritional value and amusing taste. Mangoes are mostly grown in India in tropical and subtropical areas between sea level and 1,500 m above sea level. Around 27 °C is the ideal temperature for mango growth. In India, there are over 1,000 different varieties of mango available. However, only a few numbers of varieties are grown commercially throughout India. For optimal growth and yield, the majority of Indian mango varieties have certain eco-geographical requirements. In the very south of India, a few of the native mango species produce fruit all year long. The domestic and export quality of mango largely get affected by the pests and diseases. Due to climate variability the pest and disease occurrences increasing uncontrollably and affects the mango grower’s income level largely. It is important that farmers should know the weather-related information to act accordingly to avoid yield losses. Bhatnagar et al. (2018) indicated that Kisan Mobile Advisory Services (KMAs) plays an important role in disseminating farming related information in Madhya Pradesh. Sidhu and Garg (2018) found that two-third of the respondents felt that the information is related to their condition. Manjusha et al. (2019) concluded that weather-based Agromet Advisory is useful to the farmers and plays a crucial role to improve their agricultural income and protecting their crop in different seasons. Singh et al. (2019) illuminated that AAS provides advance weather information along with crop specific agromet advisories to the farming community by using state of the art instruments and technology through efficient delivering mechanism of the information which ultimately enables farmers to take appropriate actions at farm level. Khan et al. (2020) in his study conducted in Pakistan’s Punjab province found that above two-third of the respondents were subscribed to ICT-enabled agro advisory services. Prasad et al. (2020) revealed that nearly two-third of the farmers (65 per cent) check weather predictions before going for spraying operation, nearly three-fourth of the farmers (73 per cent) check for irrigation and above half of the farmers (55 per cent) check for animal husbandry maintenance. Thakur et al. (2020) found that most of the cases forecasted data is well matched with actual data and hence those farmers who have adopted AAS timely in their farming operation realized more net income as compared to non AAS farmers having the same crop grown in the target village. Chhabra et al. (2021) in his study conducted in temperate region of Kashmir Valley found that agrometeorological advisory services help the farmers in coping up with extreme weather conditions at the earliest to avoid yield loss. Nagaraju et al. (2022) revealed that AAS were highly useful to 65.05% followed by partially useful 30.11% of farmers for planning of sowing and harvesting operations and pesticide applications, respectively. These past works had advocated that the use of weather advisory services can aid farmers in minimizing the losses due to weather adversities. The level of exposure of mango farmers to these weather advisory services is need to be known. In this paper, we attempt to find the exposure level of mango growers to weather advisory services. \r\nMATERIALS AND METHODS\r\nThe study used an ex-post facto research design. Ex-post facto research is an organised empirical study in which the researcher has no direct influence over the independent variables. Krishnagiri district was purposively selected for this study as it ranks first in the area and production of the mango. Kaveripattinam block was purposively selected based on the same criteria. A sample size of 100 was selected for the study. Exposure to weather advisory services was operationalized as the respondents’ participation in the activities like reading newspaper, farm magazines, listening to radio broadcast and viewing television to get weather related information. The scoring procedure followed in this study was given in Table 1.\r\nBased on the score the respondents were categorized into three groups viz., low, medium and high levels by using mean and standard deviation.\r\nRESULTS AND DISCUSSION \r\nThe data collected was tabulated, analysed using statistical techniques and inferences were drawn. The results of the study were presented here in Table 2.\r\nThe extent of exposure to weather advisory services by the respondents was measured as regularly, occasionally and never and scores of 3, 2, and 1 were allotted respectively. Mean score of each item was calculated and the items were ranked based on their mean score and presented in the Table 3.\r\nA perusal of the Table 2 and 3 depicts that among all the weather advisory services available weather advisory services through TV occupied first rank followed by newspaper and mobile apps with mean scores of 2.69, 2.62 and 2.19 respectively. The possible reason might be that the accessibility and ease in utilization of the television. In the present scenario every household is equipped with television. In television a broad spectrum of channels was available to disseminate information on multiple aspects. Weather related information was telecasted in a variety of channels often at the end session of news. So, the respondents reap the benefit of the telecast. In every newspaper a dedicated column of weather details was given. The literate respondents follow this column on daily basis to get informed about the weather predictions. In the era of digital technology, a lot of mobile apps were available to serve the location specific best weather-related information to the users. Thus Television, Newspaper and mobile apps were the majority weather advisory services the respondents had good levels of exposure.\r\nBased on the overall score obtained by a respondent in extension contact the respondents were categorized into low, medium and high categories according to their mean and standard deviation. The results were furnished in Table 4 and graphically represented in Fig. 1.\r\nAn investigative view at the Table 4 and Fig. 1 depicted that nearly four-fifth of the farmers (79 per cent) had medium level of exposure to weather advisory services, 15 per cent of the farmers had low level of exposure to weather advisory services and very meagre amount of the farmers (6 per cent) had high level of exposure to weather advisory services. The possible reason might be that the respondents were not aware of the merits of planning the intercultural operations according to the prevailing weather. Hence only a meagre number of respondents utilize these services at higher level and the rest have exposure at medium and low level. The findings are in line with Khan et al. (2020).','Arun Kumar G., R. Jansi Rani, M. Asokhan and Sudhamini Yedida (2022). An Exploratory Study on Weather Advisory Services Exposure among the Mango Growers of Tamil Nadu. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 14(3): 1202-1205.'),(5450,'143','Genetic Variability and Path Analysis of underutilized Nutritive Vegetable Kankoda (Momordica dioica Roxb.)','Pragati Meshram and Rajendra Kumar Yadav','Genetic Variability and Path Analysis of underutilized Nutritive Vegetable Kankoda _Momordica dioica Roxb._ RK Yadav.pdf','',1,'Kankoda (Momordica dioica Roxb.) is a Kharif vegetable crop. There is a very little research efforts on kankoda’s improvement. Fifteen genotypes of Kankoda were studied to estimate genetic variability and path analysis. High GCV and PCV was observed for number of stems/ plant. Characters like number of stems/ plant, flesh thickness, 100 seed weight, leaf length, days to first female flower, days to first female flowering node, days to first male flower, fruit length and fruit yield/ plant having high heritability estimates associated with high genetic advance as % of mean suggesting additive genetic control. Number of stems/plant, days to first female flower, days to first female flowering node, number of fruits/ plant and 100 seed weight not only had direct effects on fruit yield/ plant but also had positive and significant association on it and regarded as the main determinants of fruit yield. The improvement in fruit yield can be effective if selection is based on these characters.','Characters, cultivar, fruit yield, genotypes, Kankoda, path, variability','An attempt was made to identify traits in kankoda based on different morphological characters. According in the present study significant amount of variability was observed for most of the traits. The significant genetic variability in any breeding material is a prerequisite as it does not only provide a basis for selection but also provide some valuable information regarding selection of diverse parent for use in hybridization programme. Occurrence of high heritability coupled with high genetic advance as % of mean for the characters indicates the direct selection could effectively be made for fruit yield improvement. Days to first female flower, days to first female flowering node, number of stems/ plant, number of fruits/plant and 100 seed weight not only had direct effects on fruit yield but also had positive and significant correlation on it. As a result, directed selection based on these traits will be extremely capable in increasing fruit yield in kankoda.','I. INTRODUCTION \r\nKankoda (Momordica dioica Roxb.) belongs to the cucurbitaceous family with chromosome number 2n=28. The exact information about acreage and production data is not yet known in Chhattisgarh. However, it is estimated at having high green fruit yield 29.47 q/ha in Chhattisgarh state [10]. Kankoda is known as various local names like teasle gourd, kheksi, bhat karela, kantola, kartoli and kakrol.It is underutilized, potential, perennial, dioeciously and nutritious vegetable. The edible fruit per 100 g eaten part holds moisture 84.0 g, carbohydrate 7.6 g, protein 3.2 g, fat 0.9g, fiber 3.0 g and iron 4-7 mg, riboflavin 0.19 mg and niacin 0.05 mg. It is grown by tribal people of Chhattisgarh state in domestic garden and has high demand in the market due to high nutritive value. Fruits can be used to control blood sugar, blood pressure, ulcer, piles, sores and obstructions of liver, spleen, cough and other digestive disorders. Seeds are used to treat chest pain and to encourage urination. Leaves reduce fever, roots help in relieving headache, stone formation and migraine. Study of genetic variability, association among different traits and their direct and indirect effects on fruit yield have been done for the genetic improvement of its fruit yield through yield contributing traits.\r\nII. MATERIALS AND METHODS\r\nThe experimental material comprised fifteen genotypes named IGSG 21-1 to IGSG 21-13 along with two national checks - Indira Kankoda-1 and C.G. Kankoda-2 which were collected from northern hill zone of Chhattisgarh. The experiment was conducted at Horticulture Research Farm, under All India Coordinated Project on Potential Crops (voluntary centre), IGKV, Raipur (C.G.). These populations were grown in randomized block design with three replications during Kharif season of 2021. Each genotype was planted in each plot with a spacing of 2m. × 2m. All packages of practices were adopted to raise healthy crop. Data were recorded on 10 plants from all replications (Table 1). Analysis of variance has done according to Singh and Chaudhary (1985) [7]. Path analysis was worked out as per method of Dewey and Lu (1959) [3].\r\nIII. RESULTS AND DISCUSSION \r\nA. Genetic variability \r\nGenetic variability for fruit yield and its components in kankoda is presented in Table 1. High estimates of GCV and PCV was observed for number of stems/ plant. Similar finding was reported by Prabhakar and Kushvaha (2017) [5]. 100 seed weight, days to first female flower, leaf length, fruit thickness, days to first flowering node showed moderate estimates of GCV with PCV. The present findings were contrary with the findings of Devi et al. (2020) [2] for 100 seed weight; Yadav (2018) [10] for days to first female flower, days to first female flowering node; and Chattopadhyay (2016) [1] for fruit thickness. \r\nB. Heritability (bs) and Genetic advance as % of mean\r\nHigh heritability coupled with high genetic advance as % of mean was found for number of stems/ plant, flesh thickness, 100 seed weight, leaf length, days to first female flower, days to first female flowering node, days to first male flower, fruit length and fruit yield/plant which indicates high percentage of additive gene action. Hence, these characters should take into condition in the crop improvement programme. Similar results were also reported by Naike et al. (2004) [4] for number of stems/ pant; for 100 seed weight and days to first female flower [2]; for fruit yield/plant [6, 10, 2, 8] and for fruit length [1]. \r\nHigh heritability with moderate genetic advance as per cent of mean was showed for fruit diameter, single fruit weight and number of fruits/plant. These characters can be improved by intermating superior genotypes of segregating populations developed from combination breeding. \r\nC. Correlation and Path analysis studies \r\nThe estimate of genotypic correlation with fruit yield / plant and direct and indirect effects of 17 fruit yield components on fruit yield are presented in Table 2. At genotypic level, fruit yield/plant had significant positive association with days to first female flower, days to first female flowering node, number of stems/plant, days to first fruit harvest, number of fruits/plant and 100 seed weight.\r\nPath analysis was carried out by using genotypic correlation coefficient for quantitative characters. Days to first female flower, days to first female flowering node, number of stems/plant, fruit diameter, number of fruits/plant and 100 seed weight had positive direct effect on fruit yield/plant while, days to first fruit harvest had negative direct effect on fruit yield. Similar results were also confirmatory with the findings of Sandilya et al. (2020) [8] for number of stems/plant, days to first female flower, number of fruits/plant, 100 seed weight and fruit diameter; for number of fruits/plant on fruit yield/plant in kankoda [5]. Rest of the characters showed negative, non-significant and negligible indirect effects.\r\n','-'),(5451,'143','Study of the Impact of the use of Alternative Fuels on the Process and the Finished Product','Guy Clarence Semassou*, Alain Tossa and Roger Houêchéné AHOUANSOU ','Study of the Impact of the use of Alternative Fuels on the Process and the Finished Product Guy Clarence SEMASSOU.pdf','',1,'Since 2010, SCB-LAFAGE has been using alternative fuels. It is of utmost importance for the plant to examine the changes brought by the use of these fuels. The present work consists in studying of the impacts of the use of alternative fuels on the process and the finished product. At the same time, the study allows to specify the impact of the switch to 50% alternative fuels by 2023. Prerequisites such as the mastery of process and finished product simulation tools, the transformation process of raw meal into clinker and the knowledge of the chemical composition of fuels have allowed this work. From this study, it appeared that the volumetric dosing systems of the alternative fuels must be replaced by weight dosing systems in order to control the thermal input in the kiln. The impact on the finished product reveals a variation of 0.1% in the SO3 content of the clinker. As for the impact on the process, the alternative fuels are responsible for the formation of concretions in the preheater, due to their incomplete combustion. The concretions are, in turn, responsible for the reduction of the substitution rate of alternative fuels upstream of the kiln. To achieve these results, the study of alternative fuel dosing systems was carried out, and simulation models of the finished product and process were also used to analyze the impact of alternative fuels on the finished product and on the process. In order to achieve a 50% substitution, the optimal volume of the smoke box would have to be maintained and the alternative fuel plant would have to be adapted to the available alternative fuels. Finally, the study shows that alternative fuels allow us to make a gain of 1437 FCFA per ton of clinker produced, and encouraging the collection of waste oils would allow us to gain 115,775,782 FCFA per year.','Alternative, process, impact, smoke box, concretion, nozzle','This work was devoted to the study of the impacts of alternative fuels on the finished product and the process. After analyzing the results of the countermeasures carried out on the volumetric dosing systems of the alternative fuels, we finally opted for the weighted dosing systems. We also studied the impact of alternative fuels on the finished product and the process. This study showed that the alternative fuels used at SCB-LAFARGE have no impact on the quality of the finished product. On the other hand, the impact on the process revealed that they cause concretions in the preheater. We have focused on: monitoring the quality of the AF; regularly inspecting the smoke box and lower cyclone spouts and, if necessary, cleaning them; searching for alternative fuels; and modifying the AF tuyere. These points will make it possible to reduce the process impact and achieve the 2023 objective. We also evaluated the interest of increasing the substitution rate to 50%, i.e. 498 FCFA per ton of clinker produced, and proposed to encourage the collection of waste oils to reach a gain of 115 781 444 FCFA compared to the year 2020.','I. INTRODUCTION\r\nClinker is a constituent of cement, which results from the firing of a mixture of limestone and clay [1]. It is produced by firing the raw meal in a kiln at 1500°C [2]. To obtain this temperature inside the kiln, a large volume of fuel is required. This is usually fossil fuels, which are an increasingly expensive source [3]. The global demand for energy will increase by a third in the next twenty years and energy prices will certainly increase as energy reserves decrease [4].\r\nBy seeking to obtain the most economical and least polluting fuel mix possible in the cement manufacturing process [5]. SCB-LAFARGE has opted since 2010 for new energy resources and favored those with low carbon emissions [6, 7], called alternative fuels because they replace fossil fuels in the cement manufacturing process [8]. In general, they are derived from industrial, agricultural, commercial, municipal or domestic waste.\r\nAt present, there are different ways of supplying alternative fuels to the rotary kiln, among which there is the supply in the combustion zones of the kiln, and in the preheating system, specifically in the riser pipe and in the precalciner [9].\r\nSince alternative fuels do not have the same chemical composition and properties as fossil fuels [10], studies must be conducted on the impact of using these alternative fuels on the finished product and the process in order to see the changes made to the quality of the cement and the process. Our study fits into this context.\r\nII. MATERIALS AND METHODS\r\nA. Materials\r\nIn order to approach the present work, which is limited to the study of the impact of the use of alternative fuels on the process and the finished product, we have resorted to some equipment such as the mechanical balance (Fig. 1 (a)), the moisture meter (Fig. 1(b)), the calorimeter (Fig. 1(c)). Simulation models of finished product (Fig. 2) and process (Fig. 3) are also used.\r\nB. Methods\r\nStudy of alternative fuel dosing systems. In order to study the alternative fuel dosing systems, we carried out the following tasks in the following order. \r\n— Carry out the countermeasures \r\n— Give a flow set point to the dosing unit;\r\n— Recover during 5 minutes the quantity of fuel at the exit of the dosing unit and weigh it;\r\n— Calculate the flow rate;\r\n— Calculate the absolute error on the dosing unit\r\n— Assess the results\r\nStudy of the impact of alternative fuels on the finished product\r\n— Presentation of the finished product simulation model\r\nTo do this work, we used a simulation model (property of SCB-LAFARGE) which aims at predicting in a first time, the chemical and mineralogical composition and the cement moduli of the raw meal according to the input data such as: the chemical and mineralogical composition of the limestone and the clay, and the proportion of each of these elements in the heap formed in the pre-homogenization hall. In a second time to predict the chemical and mineralogical composition and the cement moduli of the clinker according to the input data such as: the chemical, mineralogical, energetic and flow characteristics of the flour, dust and all the fuels used. It should be noted that our work will only take into account the simulation part of the clinker quality according to the flour and fuels.\r\nVerification. At this stage, we performed several simulations on specific dates and compared the results of the simulation with the results given by the laboratory after analyzing the clinker of the day. The target dates for the analysis are days when: kiln operation is as stable as possible, variations in flour and fuel flow are negligible and flour quality is good.\r\nThe verification of the product simulation model consists of checking the following assumptions in order: \r\n— the actual results (chemical composition of the clinker given by the laboratory) are within the expected range for a Portland clinker;\r\n— the simulation results are within the expected range for a Portland clinker; \r\n— for each chemical element, the difference between the actual result and the simulation result is less than or equal to 1/3 of the range expected for a Portland clinker.\r\n— Run several simulations and compare the results. \r\nStudy of the impact of alternative fuels on the process\r\n— Indicate the elements at the basis of the impact on the process\r\n— Give the permissible limits of these elements in a preheater furnace \r\n— Assess the behavior of these elements in the SCB-LAFARGE process \r\nModeling. This part is dedicated to the identification of mathematical models related to the study of alternative fuel metering systems and the evaluation of the production cost with the use of alternative fuels. \r\nAlternative fuel metering systems\r\nCalculation of the flow rate of the dosing system.\r\nIts expression is :\r\nFlowrate=Mass/time (1)\r\nWith the flow rate in t/h, the mass in tons and the time in hours.\r\nCalculation of the absolute error on the dosing system. Its expression is as follows:\r\nEa=〖flowrate〗_con-〖flowrate〗_cal (2)\r\n With Ea the absolute error on the doser in t/h, 〖flowrate〗_con the set flow rate in t/h and 〖flowrate〗_cal the cal flow rate in t/h.\r\nAssessment of the results \r\nAccept if error <|0.2| t/h (3)\r\nEvaluation of the cost of production with the use of alternative fuels \r\nDetermination of the amount of useful heat to prepare one ton of clinker in the cement kiln \r\nCost per megacalorie of fuels (fossil and alternative) :\r\n \r\nIts expression is :\r\nC_Mcal=Priceofaton/PCI (4)\r\nWith C_Mcal the cost per megacalorie in FCFA/Mcal, PCI the lower calorific value in Mcal/ton.\r\nEvaluation of the current cost of production \r\nCUC=C_Mcal×CUtkk (5)\r\n\r\nWith CUC the cost per unit of clinker in FCFA/ton and CUtkk the heat consumption per ton of clinker in Mcal/ton.\r\nEvaluation of the cost of production by 2023 (50% alternative fuels)\r\nCUC=C_Mcal×CUtkk (6)\r\nIII. RESULTS AND ANALYSIS\r\nResults\r\nAll the results of the study of the alternative fuel dosing systems, the study of the impact of alternative fuels on the finished product and on the process and the evaluation of the cost of production with the use of alternative fuels are recorded in Tables 1 to 25 and on the graph in Fig. 5.\r\nAnalysis of the results \r\nStudy of the dosing systems for alternative fuels. From the analysis of Table 1, it should be noted that only 12.5% of the absolute errors on doser are acceptable. This justifies the instability of the clinker firing and can be explained by the cooling of the kiln or the overheating of the kiln. However, according to [13], any dosing unit with 50% of unacceptable errors must be downgraded in order to guarantee the quality of the finished product. From this statement, we propose that the volumetric fuel feeders alternative to SCB-LAFARCE should be replaced by weight feeders (weight belt feeder) because of the accuracy that this type of feeder offers.\r\nImpacts of alternative fuels on the finished product\r\n- Chemical and mineralogical composition of the clinker\r\nAfter analyzing the results presented in Table 3, it can be seen that the three validation steps are met by the product simulation model. The discrepancy between the results of the simulation and those of the laboratory is justified by the following reasons: the discrepancy between the real phenomenon and the simulation model, the frequency of occurrence of errors on the alternative fuel dosers, the number of samples taken by the laboratory (09 per day on clinker, 02 on dust and 09 on flour) and the small variations observed on the chemical composition during the different analyses carried out during the day. This model was used to study the impact of alternative fuels on the quality of clinker by making several simulations.\r\n- Finished product simulation\r\nFrom the simulation results reported in Tables 4, 5 and 6 above, it should be noted that the replacement of 50% of the fossil fuels by alternative fuels in the raw meal to clinker process varies the SO3 content of the clinker by 0.1%. In our work, a variation in the SO3 content of clinker less than 5% of the amplitude of the range given for a Portland clinker (0 to 3% for SO3) is considered negligible on the quality of clinker [14]. The results of our study (0.1% variation in SO3 content) represent 3.33% of the amplitude of the tolerable range for Portland clinker (3%). However, 3.33% is less than 5%, so the impact on the product is considered negligible.\r\nImpact of alternative fuels on the process\r\n- Minor components \r\nThe minor components introduced into the process by the flour and fuels (fossil and alternative) can disrupt the operation of the process by an internal shrinkage in the kiln called ring and in the pre-chaser called concretion if their concentration is excessive. These minor components are usually potassium, sulfur, sodium and chlorine [15].\r\n- Permissible limits\r\nFor a preheater cement kiln to operate without being disturbed by the concentration of minor components, it must meet the conditions presented in Tables 7 and 8.\r\nImpact of alternative fuels on the process\r\n- Minor components \r\nThe minor components introduced into the process by the flour and fuels (fossil and alternative) can disrupt the operation of the process by an internal shrinkage in the kiln called ring and in the pre-chaser called concretion if their concentration is excessive. These minor components are usually potassium, sulfur, sodium and chlorine [15].\r\n- Permissible limits\r\nFor a preheater cement kiln to operate without being disturbed by the concentration of minor components, it must meet the conditions presented in Tables 7 and 8.\r\nProcess simulation\r\n- Process simulation of 29/06/2021\r\nThe SO3 content present at cyclone 4 is far below the maximum recommended threshold. The lower cyclone chutes and the smoke box are clean. The sulfur and alkali content in the clinker is well below the limit. The results of the simulation of 29/06/2021 show us that despite the excess of SO3 (excess above the maximum limit) in the raw fuel mixture, the evaporation coefficient of SO3 is below the minimum limit. The simulation results show us that despite the excess of SO3 (excess above the maximum limit) in the raw fuel mixture, the SO3 evaporation coefficient is lower than the minimum limit.\r\n- Process simulation of 04/07/2021\r\nThe SO3 content in cyclone 4 is above the maximum recommended limit. Therefore, frequent blockages will occur if actions are not taken to regularly clean the lower cyclone chutes and the smoke box. The sulfur and alkali content in the clinker is well below the limit. The SO3 evaporation coefficient (0.84) associated with the SO3 content of C4 material tells us that there are major combustion problems in the smoke box.\r\n- Process simulation of 02/08/2021\r\nThe quantities of volatile materials brought into the furnace by the raw meal and the fuels are below the threshold. The SO3 content in cyclone 4 is higher than the maximum recommended threshold. Frequent blockages will occur if action is not taken to regularly clean the lower cyclone chutes and the smoke box. The sulfur and alkali content in the clinker is well below the limit. The SO3 evaporation coefficient (0.89) associated with the SO3 content of C4 material tells us that there are major problems of incomplete combustion at the smoke box.\r\nEven with 36% alternative fuel (PKS only), we still have major combustion problems (evaporation coefficient equal to 0.84). The sulfur content of hot meal also exceeds the maximum limit.\r\nFrom the 03 simulations performed above, we can see that the impact of alternative fuels on the process comes from the incomplete combustion of alternative fuels, which is the basis for the increase of the sulfur evaporation coefficient. The high sulfur evaporation coefficient is in turn responsible for the high SO3 content in the hot meal that gives rise to the concretions. \r\nEvaluation of the cost of production with the use of alternative fuels. The results presented in Table 24 show that the cost savings of substituting petcoke with alternative fuels at the ONIGBOLO plant are \r\n1,250 FCFA per ton of clinker produced. The results presented in Table 25 show that in 2023, the savings that the ONIGBOLO plant could achieve by substituting 50% of fossil fuel represent 1,748 FCFA per ton of clinker produced, compared to 1,250 FCFA under the current operating conditions. \r\nThe partial substitution of alternative fuels in the cement industry presents a certain advantage in terms of energy savings. This is one of the main reasons for using waste as fuel in cement kilns. Thus, by 2023, (50% alternative fuel) the ONIGBOLO plant would save 498 FCFA per ton of clinker produced, taking as a reference the current situation where substitution is already 32.5%.\r\n','-'),(5452,'136','Genetic variability Studies for Yield and Yield Attributing Traits in F2 Generation of Brinjal','Durga Hemanth Kumar Ch*, Uma Jyoti K., Usha Kumari K., Kranthi Rekha G. and Paratpara Rao M.','203 Genetic variability Studies for Yield and Yield Attributing Traits in F2 Generation of Brinjal Durga hemanthkumar Ch.pdf','',1,'The mean, range, phenotypic coefficient of variation (PCV), Genotypic coefficient of variation (GCV), heritability, genetic advance and genetic advance as per cent of mean were worked for the selection superior crosses in the F2 generation. The PCV and GCV were high for the characters like Number of flowers per inflorescence, Number of fruits per cluster and Fruit length to fruit girth ratio. The heritability (broad sense) was found high for the characters studied i.e., Number of flowers per inflorescence (88.50%), Number of fruits per cluster (99.87%), days to first harvesting (99.72%), fruit girth (96.79), fruit weight (99.87%), Fruit length to fruit girth ratio (98.84%), number of seeds for fruit (99.87%) and test weight of seeds (99.81%). The genetic advance was high for fruit weight (37.12%), Fruit length to fruit girth ratio (164.72%) and the GAM were high for the characters like Number of flowers per inflorescence, Number of fruits per cluster, days to first harvesting, fruit weight and fruit length to fruit girth ratio.','Brinjal, PCV, GCV, heritability, genetic advance and GAM.','High level of PCV and GCV values were observed for number of fruits per cluster, fruit length to fruit girth ratio in F2 generation indicates that high level variability present in progenies for these traits for further improvement. The minimum difference observed between PCV and GCV values indicates that, these traits were less influenced by environment and these characters might be improved by phenotypic selection in future generations. High heritability along with GAM were noted in characters like number of fruits per cluster, number of flowers per inflorescence, average fruit weight, fruit girth, fruit length to girth ratio in F2 generation indicates the additive gene action on these traits and selection might be done for enhancement of such traits through pure line method, mass selection, progeny selection, hybridization and selection followed by pedigree breeding.\r\nHeritability was high in F2 generation for most of the traits viz., number of flowers per inflorescence, number of fruits per cluster, fruit girth, fruit length to girth ratio, average fruit weight, days to first harvesting, number of seeds per fruit, 1000 seed weight.\r\n','INTRODUCTION\r\nBrinjal (Solanum melongena L.) is native of India and belonging to family Solanaceae, is one of the most popularly grown in India and other parts of the world. Solanum is a very large genus and among the 22 Indian species of brinjal all are diploid with somatic chromosome number 2n = 2x = 24. It is highly productive and usually referred as the poor man’s crop. Basically, it is self pollinated crop but cross pollination also reported as high as 29 per cent due to heterostyly condition and hence it is called as often-cross pollinated or facultative-cross pollinated crop. Greater the variability in a population, more will be chance for effective selection for desirable types (Vavilov, 1951). Evaluation of the brinjal genotypes is necessary to know the performance in terms of yield and for the future selection of genotypes. The genotypes selected are released as a variety or further it can be used in breeding programme.\r\nMATERIAL AND METHODS\r\nThe present investigation was carried in COH, Venkataramannagudem, Dr. Y.S.R. Horticultural University, West Godavari (A.P) during kharif 2019-20. The experiment consists of seven F2 brinjal progenies viz., Babajipet-1 × EC-169084, Tuni local × EC-169089, EC-169084 × Bhagyamati, EC-169089 × Pennada, Babajipet-1 × Babajipet-2, EC 169084 × Pennada and Babajipet-2 × EC-169084. The present investigation was carried out with the objective of selecting superior genotypes for economically important traits and to assess the effectiveness of selection by estimating per cent genetic gain and to study the effect of selection on other genetic parameters. Parameters of variability and Heritability can be calculated using formulae specified by Burton and Devane (1953) and Allard (1960). The genetic advance was calculated by formulae given by Allard (1960) and the GAM calculated using the formulae given by Johnson et al. (1955).\r\nRESULTS AND DISCUSSION\r\nAmong various variability parameters, high PCV and GCV were observed in traits Number of flowers per inflorescence, Number of fruits per cluster and Fruit length to fruit girth ratio indicating that more variations and resulted good scope for crop improvement by selection. Similar results were observed Divya Arti and Sharma (2018) for Number of flowers per inflorescence, Number of fruits per cluster and Fruit length to fruit girth ratio in brinjal. Moderate PCV and GCV were found in traits Number of primary branches, Fruit girth(cm) and fruit weight. These finding are similar to Balas et al. (2019) for Number of primary branches, fruit girth in brinjal. Whereas, low PCV and GCV were recorded in plant height, days to first harvesting, number of seeds per fruit and test weight of seed. These results were in conformity with Balas et al. (2019) for days to first harvesting, number of seeds for fruit in brinjal, Priyanka et al. (2018) for test weight of seed in brinjal.\r\nAll the parameters exhibited high level of heritability (88.50% to 99.87%). High level of heritability for various traits indicates that vast proportion of phenotypic variance was aspect to genotypic variance and therefore, selection could be made in this traits on the measure of phenotypic expression. These results were in conformity with Jyothi et al. (2019) for plant height, days to first harvesting, number of seeds per fruit and test weight of seed in brinjal. Balas et al. (2018); Divya Arti and Sharma (2018) for number of fruits per cluster and Ramesh et al. (2013) for fruit length to fruit girth ratio.\r\nThe high heritability coupled with high GA was found for fruit weight and number of seeds per fruit indicating that these traits were controlled predominantly by additive gene effect. Therefore, phenotypic selection will be useful to improve these traits in future according to Prasad et al. (2004). High heritability along with greater GAM was found for Number of flowers per inflorescence, Number of fruits per cluster, fruit weight and fruit girth, indicates that these traits were also controlled by additive gene and selection might be useful for further improvement. These findings were in accordance with Divya Arti and Sharma (2018) for Number of flowers per inflorescence, Number of fruits per cluster, fruit weight in brinjal. The cross EC-169084 × Bhagyamati cross also recorded the highest Number of flowers per inflorescence, number of fruits per cluster, The cross Tuni local × EC-169089 recorded the highest average fruit weight and moderate value for number of fruits per cluster and days to first harvest in F2 generation.\r\n\r\n','Durga Hemanth Kumar Ch, Uma Jyoti K., Usha Kumari K., Kranthi Rekha G. and Paratpara Rao M. (2022). Genetic variability Studies for Yield and Yield Attributing Traits in F2 Generation of Brinjal. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 14(3): 1206-1208.'),(5453,'136','A Review on Invasive Pests of Horticultural Crop Ecosystems','P.V. Raghuteja*, N.B.V. Chalapathi Rao and E. Padma','204 A Review on Invasive Pests of Horticultural Crop Ecosystems P. V. Raghuteja.pdf','',1,'The agricultural sector of India is under risk from numerous possible bioweapons, primarily invasive pest species. Exotic, introduced, alien, non-indigenous or non-native species that have been unintentionally or purposefully introduced by humans from one area to another are considered invasive pest species. Due to trade liberalisation and greater intercontinental travel by people, the invasion of invasive insects has grown globally. So far, 34 different invasive insect pests of horticultural crops are recorded in India. The valuable natural agricultural systems that support us and the biodiversity are both suffering severe harm from these animals. The damage to nature and the environment is frequently irreparable and direct and indirect health repercussions are becoming more significant. The exact monitory values of the losses caused by these invasive pests on horticultural crops are not properly known. By having a fundamental understanding of invasive pest species and fostering international collaboration through the sharing of knowledge about invasive pests and their natural enemies, the introduction of new pest species in a new area can be minimised. India will be safe from such invasive pests due to strict import rules, international trade and commerce cooperation, early detection and taxonomic identification at entry points.','Invasive pests, horticultural crops and management.','Globalization led to the invasion of insects, which were a serious threat to the local flora and wildlife and even led to the extinction of several species. The globalisation of agriculture has boosted worldwide trade and the movement of seeds and planting materials has raised the potential of invasive pest introduction into India. These species can multiply greatly and harm economically significant plant species and crop plants if they are not accompanied by the natural enemies that keep them in check in their native habitat. By having a fundamental understanding of invasive pest species and cooperating internationally through the sharing of information on invasive pests and their natural enemies, the introduction of new pest species in a new area can be minimised.\r\nThe output of horticultural crops is primarily affected by the severe effects of invasive pest species on the environment, agriculture and horticulture ecology. These species have a significant negative impact on biodiversity and may also affect the economy of nation. In order to detect invasive organisms and evaluate their ecological issues, environmental concerns in various habitats, economic harm and control options, scientists must collaborate across disciplines. This emphasises how crucial quarantine is in halting the spread of harmful exotic pests.\r\n','INTRODUCTION\r\nHorticulture output currently represents 30.4 per cent of agriculture GDP and is a significant driver of economic growth in many states across the country. India is the world’s second largest producer of fruits and vegetables and the largest producer of many other commodities, including mango, banana, coconut, cashew, papaya and pomegranate. Fresh fruit and vegetable exports have increased by 14 per cent in value in international trade, while processed fruit and vegetable exports have increased by 16.27 per cent (Senguttuvan, 2020). However, the study of invasive pests and their management is important in the production of horticultural crops.\r\nExotic, introduced, non-indigenous or non-native species are additional terms for invasive pest species. We introduce it intentionally, accidentally or through human agency from one geographic region to another for societal or individual gain. The area\'s biodiversity is at danger because of these recently imported species. These imported species pose a serious threat to our biosecurity of nation in addition to the threat they pose to biodiversity (Chalapathi Rao et al., 2018). The likelihood of some exotic pests entering unintentionally has increased in recent years due to frequent exchanges of planting material between nations. These insect pests can grow rapidly and harm crop plants and species of commercially significant plants.\r\nThe Destructive Insect and Pest Act of 1914 was implemented in India by the Directorate of Plant Protection, Quarantine and Storage through the Plant Quarantine (Regulation of Import into India) Order, 2003, which aims to protect horticulture and forest tree plants by preventing the entry, establishment, and spread of exotic plant pests. To carry out the stipulations of the PQ Order, 2003, Plant Quarantine stations are set up at various points of entry, including seaports, airports, and land frontiers. The list of exotic pests of horticultural crops are presented in table 1till to date.\r\nCommon traits of invasive pests: It has a very high and rapid reproduction even at unfavourable conditions with more compatibility to survive with the alien ecosystem. It ought to be able to survive on a variety of different food sources. It has the ability to outcompete a native species due to its rapid development. It is capable of travelling great distances. Phenotypic plasticity exists.\r\nList of invasive insect pests of horticultural crops in India\r\n1. Woolly apple aphid, Eriosoma lanigerum (Hausmann) (Aphididae: Hemiptera). With the importation of Chinese apple rootstock during the 18th century, this pest was introduced to India. It was initially noted in Conoor in 1889 and reports from Kumaun in the Hills of Utter Pradesh (now in Uttarakhand) and Shimla in 1909 and 1910, respectively, followed. In India, it attained pest status in 1920 (Mishra, 1920). Adults and nymphs attack the roots of the plants by sucking the sap from them, causing swellings that make the plant seem sickly and may even cause it to die.\r\n2. San jose scale, Quadraspidiotus perniciosus (Comstock) (Diaspididae: Hemiptera). The scale had made way to India in 1911, and by 1933 it had become a nuisance in willow and poplar plantations as well as fruit orchards. In general, it targets wood, but in cases of severe infestations, it can also penetrate leaves and fruits. Bark frequently splits open and discharges gum, leaving a dark-brown gelatinous region in its wake.\r\n3. Lantana bug, Ortheziai nsignis Browne (Orthezidae: Hemiptera). The bug was introduced in the year 1915 into Nilgiri region of India. This mobile scale insect\'s female has a sizable wax ovisac. The eggs hatch inside the ovisac because this species is parthenogenetic and the nymphs of the first in star then migrate outside to feed.\r\n4. Cottony cushion scale, Icerya purchase Maskell (Margarodidae: Hemiptera). In 1921, it was unintentionally introduced to India. In South India\'s Nilgiri and Annamalai highlands, the cotton cushion scale has severely infested plants and spread over the entire nation.\r\n5. Potato tuber moth, Phthorimaea operculella (Zeller) (Lepidoptera: Gelechiidae). It was invaded in India in 1907 together with Italian potatoes and quickly spread over the country (Lefroy, 1907). Caterpillar initially tunnels through leaves, then move through veins into petioles, then to stems, and eventually to the soil\'s tubers. In a single year, it can complete 12 generations (Hill, 1993).\r\n6. Diamond-back moth, Plutella xylostella (Linn.) (Plutellidae: Lepidoptera). The discovery of DBM on cruciferous vegetables by Fletcher in 1914 was widely disseminated in India. Later instars dig holes whereas early instars mine the underside of leaves. Larva mining and leaf skeletonization take place.\r\n7. Pine woolly aphid, Pineuspini (Macquart) (Adelgidae: Hemiptera). It was first introduced in India in the 1970s in the South Indian Nilgiri Hills. The main method used by this aphid to spread to new places is the movement of infected planting stock. Pinus spp. shoots are consumed by the pine woolly aphid, which can occasionally result in tip dieback.\r\n8. Brown peach aphid, Pterochloroides persicae Cholodkovsky (Aphididae: Hemiptera). The alien invasive aphid Pterochloroides persicae (Cholodkovsky) was reported in India for the first time sporadically from Kashmir valley, Shimla and Punjab on peach crop (Mann et al., 1979).\r\nThis aphid weakens young fruit trees, causes branches to wither and reduces productivity by feeding on the inner cortex (Phloem). Premature fruit drop, leaf curving, an uneven twig curvature, stunted growth and sooty mould development as a result of excessive honey dew production are damage indications (Mahendiran et al., 2018).\r\n9. Banana skipper, Erionota torus Evans (Hesperiidae: Lepidoptera). The Erionota species was first identified in Southeast Asia and is now widely spread in Sikkim, Manipur (Prasad and Singh, 1987); Assam (Deka et al., 1996). The Erinota species, which is traditionally known from the Himalayan East and Southeast ward, was described from Sikkim in India (Raju et al., 2015). Elakkibale, Sugandhalu and Grand Naine cultivars, which are members of the Dwarf Cavendish group (Srinivas Reddy and Hemadri 2018), are particularly vulnerable to this pest.\r\nThe first in star caterpillars feed on leaf edges while also building their own shelter by rolling the leaf edges, which they did in great numbers (11–20) on both leaf edges. In certain orchards, banana leaves completely defoliate, leaving only the midrib, causing serious damage.\r\n10. Subabulpsyllid, Heteropsylla cubana Crawford (Psyllidae: Hemiptera). It originated in Central America and was brought to India in 1988 in Bangalore and the Chengalpattu area of Tamil Nadu. Young shoots are entirely deformed by the psyllid by sucking the sap from their leaves, inflorescences and young shoots.\r\n11. Serpentine leaf miner, Liriomyza trifolii Burges (Agromyzidae: Diptera). The native land of pest is USA (Florida), where it was unintentionally introduced in the years 1990–1991. It was possibly brought to California, USA, along with cut chrysanthemum flowers in the early 1970s (Parrella, 1987). The first account of it occurring in India initially surfaced in the proceedings of the Hyderabad-based annual castor research workers\' group conference. The mesophyll portion of the leaves is what the larvae mine for food. Accelerate leaf shedding to reveal fruits like tomatoes. It acts as a vector of diseases. Reduction in crop yields. Aesthetic value of ornamental plants is reduced.\r\n12. Coffee berry borer, Hypothenemus hampei Ferrari (Scolytidae: Coleoptera). In India, Gudalur of Nilgiris was where the first reports of the coffee berry borer were made in 1990. It has since spread to other coffee-growing regions in Kerala (Wyanad), Karnataka and Tamil Nadu (Gudalur and Kilkotagiri) (Kodagu). The adult beetle measures 1.0-1.9mm, brownish-black. The majority of the population is often female. In order to lay bean-shaped eggs, the fertilised female bores an entrance hole in the terminal pore or in the calyx ridge of the differential tissue that surrounds the pore.\r\n13. Spiralling whitefly, Aleurodicus disperses Russell (Aleyrodidae: Hemiptera). It is an origin from Caribbean region and Central America reported for the first time from Kerala in 1993 (Jhala et al., 2008) and afterwards from remaining parts of peninsular India (David and Regu 1995). The nymphs and adults can cause early leaf drop by sucking sap from the host plants. Many whitish, waxy flocculent materials secreted by whitefly nymphs. In addition, the production of sticky honeydew provides a substrate for the dense growth of sooty mould, which inhibits photosynthesis.\r\n14. Eripohyid mite, Aceria gurreronis Keifer (Eriophidae: Arachnida). It was first discovered in 1997 in Ernakulam district of Kerala, and it has since spread to significant coconut-growing regions. A survey carried out in Kerala in 1999 found that roughly 42% of plants were impacted, with an estimated yield loss of around 22 per cent. According to estimates, mite infestation caused a 2.12 per cent decrease in nut weight (Sreejith, 2011). The nuts discolour and the market value of nuts is affected.\r\n15. Guava stem borer, Aristobia reticulator Voet (Cerambycidae: Coleoptera). In China, this borer is a common pest of long an trees. However this pest was noticed for the first time in India during 1997 as a stem borer on guava (Shylesha et al., 2000). In Arunachal Pradesh this pest was also reported in Litchi (Kumawat et al., 2017) and in Aonla (Kumawat and Wangchu 2021).\r\nThe larvae of the beetles tunnel within the stem while they feed on the bark by girdling stems, branches and delicate twigs. The saplings and branches sustained the most harm from the grubs. The females made a slit in the bark and placed one egg there. Grubs that had just hatched began feeding sub-cortically before moving into the sapwood. Grubs continued to descend the branches while moving through their tunnels, feasting and expelling frass. Under the bark, a pupal cell was produced by the grub. Cut circular exit holes on the outside of the pupal cell, and beetles crawled out. The beetle has a life cycle that lasts around a year.\r\n16. Silver leaf whitefly, Bemisia argentifolia Bellows (Aleyrodiadae: Hemiptera). It was introduced in the year 1999. It causes Leaf curl viral disease in Tomato (To LCVD).It infests by piercing plant leaf and extracting sap from it. It causes early leaf shedding, leaf withering and leaf chlorosis, early withering and plant thinning. Additionally, it slows down plant growth and yield.\r\n17. Arecanut whitefly, Aleurocanthus arecae Quaintance & Baker (Aleyrodiadae: Hemiptera). This pest was introduced in the year 2003 noticed on Arecanut palm in Karnataka state, Andhra Pradesh (David and Manjunath 2003). It belongs to the group of Aleurocanthus sp. which possess very coarse marginal teeth (4-5 teeth) in the puparial stage. The puparium is blackish brown colour with powdery wax sparsely distributed on the cases found on the under surface of the arecanut leaves (David and Manjunath 2003).\r\n18. Papaya mealy bug, Paracoccus marginatus Williams & Graner de Willink (Pseudococcidae: Hemiptera). It is a native from Neotropical region (Mexico, Guatemala) and introduced to Coimbatore (Tamil Nadu). It was noticed in Papaya in the year 2007. Leaves show crinkling. Leaves and fruits are covered with honey dew and sooty mould. It became a polyphagous pest and there was a potential economic loss of 60 to 80 %. It is believed that the transportation of infected fruits is what caused it to spread to Kerala, Karnataka, Maharashtra, and Tripura currently. (Muniappan et al., 2008).\r\n19. Lotus lily midge, Stenochironomus nelumbus Tok and Kur (Chironomidae: Diptera). It is a native pest of china and distributed to Kerala, India in the year 2005. It leads to excessive leaf rotting disease. The newly hatched grub mines into the sub-cuticular parenchyma tissue.\r\n20. Erythrina gall wasp, Quadrastichus erythrinae Kim (Eulophidae: Hymenoptera). It is native pest from Singapore and Mauritius and introduced in Thiruvananthapuram, Kerala in the year 2005. On Erythina spp., it is a significant invasive pest in the black pepper crops of Kerala and Karnataka. In the Wayanad District of Kerala in 2006, Erythina plants had damage of around 60 per cent. The mode of entry is through exchange of plant materials. Major symptoms of the pest are gall enlargement and malformation, wilting of leaves, severe defoliation and death of trees.\r\n21. Blue gum chalcid, Leptocybe invasa Fisher & La Salle (Eulophidae: Hymenoptera). It is a wasp that induces gall formation introduced from Australia reported in planted forests and nurseries of Eucalyptus camaldulensis and E. tereticornis from India. \r\nSite of oviposition of L. invasa is bark of shoots or the leaf midribs. Within the host plant, the eggs hatch into tiny, white, legless larvae. Damage is caused when the growing larvae form galls on the petioles, midribs and twigs of leaves. Invulnerable trees experience a loss of growth and vigour after repeated damage. Trees that have been severely assaulted have twisted appearances, stunted growth, lodging, dieback and eventually die.\r\n22. Cotton mealy bug, Phenococcus solenopsis Tinsley (Pseudococcidae: Hemiptera). The earliest P. solenopsis infestations in India were recorded for the first time in 2005 in Cotton at Gujarat (Nagrare et al., 2009), spread rapidly after introduction to various parts of country. P. solenopsis is a polyphagous pest with a wide host range such as Brinjal, Okra, Tomato and Chinarose.\r\n23. Tomato pin worm, Tuta absoluta Meyrick (Gelechiidae: Lepidoptera). Tomato leaf miner, Tuta absoluta was reported on tomato for the first time at Indian Institute of Horticultural Research (IIHR), Karnataka, India during 2014 rabi season (Shylesha et al., 2018). It was noticed for the first time at Nauni Solan of Himachal Pradesh during 2015 (Sharma and Gavkare 2017).\r\nTomato leaves, apical buds, stalks or fruits are mined by young larvae. Inconspicuous mines (blotches) and galleries appear on leaves after feeding and fruits with pinhole-sized holes from the stalk end are typically covered in frass. Inside the mines, one can see dark frass (excrement) and the excavated regions over time turned brown and desiccated.\r\n24. Solanum whitefly, Aleurothrixus trachoides Back (Aleyrodiadae: Hemiptera). This neotropicalsolanum whitefly, Aleurothrixus trachoides was found to be invasive in India (Dubey and Sundararaj 2015). It infests solanaceae crops like brinjal, tomato and chilli. Heavy infestations lead to chlorotic spots and curling of leaves resulting in their premature shedding and in severe infestation mortality of seedlings of chilli and tomato are observed (Sundararaj et al., 2018).\r\n25. Western flower, Frankliniella occidentalis Pergande (Thripidae: Thysanoptera). The western flower thrips, Frankliniella occidentalis, is most significant invasive pest of many crops during the 1970-80s worldwide. This is the first report on tomato crop from Bengaluru, Karnataka (Thyagi and Kumar 2015).\r\nDirect economic damage is caused by feeding and oviposition, while indirect economic damage by the spread of plant pathogenic viruses of the genus Tospovirus (Peribunyaviridae) (Macharia et al., 2015). It is the most effective vector of the seven Tospovirus species, including the ones that cause tomato spotted wilt (TSWV), tomato zonate spot virus, tomato chlorotic spot virus and chrysanthemum stem necrosis. Feeding on tissues that are actively growing results in stunted and deformed plant growth, which eventually reduces production. \r\n26. Invasive pest thrips, Thrips parvispinus Karny (Thripidae: Thysanoptera). This invasive pest was firstly reported on papaya from Bangalore (Tyagi et al., 2015) and Dahlia rosea (Rachana et al., 2018). Besides, that it is currently threatening chilli cultivation also in India. Thrips parvispinus (Karny) is native of the South East Asian pest species, a significant pest species of quarantine relevance that has been reported from Thailand to Australia and is a problematic pest on a number of agricultural and horticulture crops (Mound and Collins 2000). They significantly reduce productivity by causing widespread flower loss, fruit deformity and fruit drop in chillies. The emergence of T. parvispinus in several places across our country has drawn attention because it is a serious pest that causes substantial crop losses.\r\n27. Rugosespiralling whitefly, Aleurodicus rugioperculetus Martin (Aleyrodiadae: Hemiptera). This dangerous exotic pest was reported for the first time on coconut (Cocos nucifera L.) at Pollachi, Tamil Nadu during August, 2016 (Sundararaj and Selvaraj 2017). Currently, RSW is highly polyphagous with 118 hosts belonging to 43 plant families including economically important crops in United States (Francis et al., 2016).\r\nWhitefly feeding stresses the host plant by withdrawing nutrients and water as well as producing honeydew, which coats the lower leaves and encourages the growth of sooty mould, which may limit the plant ability to synthesise food (Chalapathi Rao et al., 2018). Symptoms such as egg spirals of the RSW are present on the underside of leaves, along with thick white waxy material, sticky honeydew, the growth of black sooty mould, leaf damage and early leaf drop in some plants (Chalapathi Rao et al., 2018).\r\n28. Arecanut aphid, Tuberaphis xinglongensis Zhang (Aphididae: Hemiptera). T. xinglogensis was recorded in India for the first time on Arecanut as a new host and confirmed with the help of molecular characterization (Sunil et al., 2021). Nymphs and adults suck the sap from the spindle region but less from leaf portion. The more infestation was noticed on spindle region than on leaf and the population was more during summer months. The pest intensity ranged from 18.53 to 36.00 aphids/2.5 sq. cm.\r\nThe aphid makes crowded colonies on spindle region. Nymphs are yellowish green coloured, pear shaped. Alates are with light brownish yellow body. Wings held horizontal above abdomen. Adult female brownish but gives greyish white appearance due to wax powder deposits on dorsum. Weak fringe of white wax surrounding abdomen, which breaks as the aphid walks in the colony. Appendages light brown.\r\n29. Nesting whitefly, Paraleyrodes minei Iacarrino (Aleyrodiadae: Hemiptera). Species in this genus have been given the common name “nesting whiteflies” after the distinctive wax pattern that develops around the pupa on the leaf surface. It builds loosely woven, fuzzy wax nests and lacks the oblique grey banding on its wings.\r\nMales are smoky grey in colour, while females are white. Male whiteflies have smoky grey wings with three orange-tinted whip-like antenna (Chandrika et al., 2018). P. minei constructs up to 30 colonies of nest on coconut leaflets which leads to sooty mould development in leaves (Josephrajkumar et al., 2018).\r\n30. Bondar’snesting whitefly, Paraleyrodes bondari Perrachi (Aleyrodiadae: Hemiptera). Paraleyrodes bondari (Bondar’s nesting whitefly) (Hemiptera: Aleyrodidae) is one of 17 species in genus Paraleyrodes that occur throughout the Neotropics. In India, first incidence of the neo-tropical invasive BNW was recorded on coconut palms from Kerala (Josephrajkumar et al., 2019).\r\nIt builds distinctive woolly wax nests on the abaxial surface of palm leaflets and has oblique greyish bands on its wings that resemble \"X\" shape. Young nymph consists of transparent “wax” skirt. While, older nymph is covered with flocculent wax and surrounded by fiberglass-like rods. Presence of abdominal compound pores (33-35 m) of the puparium with ovoid facets that resemble flower petals (Sundararaj et al., 2018 and Josephrajkumar et al., 2019). Heavy Bondar’s nesting whitefly infestations cause circular and white “nests” which makepolka-dot manner by contrasting with black sooty mold (Stocks, 2012).\r\n31. Wooly whitefly, Aleurothrixus floccosus Maskell (Aleyrodiadae: Hemiptera). It is a highly polyphagous pest recorded on guava (Psidium guajava L.) first time in India during 2019 (Sundararaj et al., 2020). It is documented to feed on more than 20 plant families and prefers more on citrus species and guava. \r\nThe nymphal stages are vulnerable and cause much damage to the guava leaves by sucking sap from abaxial surface. Woolly whitefly segregates more honeydew in the leaves of guava comparing to the other invasive whiteflies.\r\n32. Palm whitefly, Aleurotrachelus atratus Hempel (Aleyrodiadae: Hemiptera). Palm whitefly, Aleurotrachelus atratus Hempelis a highly invasive whitefly whose infestation was reported for the first time in India in addition to the oriental region (Selvaraj et al., 2019).\r\nIt infests mainly on the abaxial leaflet surface ranging from 97 to 186 nymphs per group with 3 to 48 groups per leaflet. In severe cases greater than 60 per cent coverage of leaflet by the nymphs result in chlorosis or necrosis and loss of vigour with drying of the leaflets. Further, secretion of honeydew acts as a medium for sooty mould development (Selvaraj et al., 2019). \r\n33. Cassava mealy bug, Phenacoccus manihoti Matile – Ferrero (Pseudococcidae: Hemiptera). The most recent serious biological invasion is the Cassava Mealy Bug, manihoti Matile – Ferrero (Pseudococcidae: Hemiptera). The incidence of mealy bug species was first noticed on Cassava in Thrissur, Kerala during April 2020. They are pink coloured with mealy coating and usually infest the shoot tips and under surface of the leaves. All the stages viz., eggs, nymphs and adults cause curling of the leaves at growing tip of the plant leading to formation of bunchy tops and adventitious buds on almost all the internodes. Heavy population resulted in the leaf drying and entire defoliation (Sampath et al., 2021).\r\n34. Leek moth, Acrolepiopsis assectella Zeller (Acrolepiidae: Lepidoptera). Leek moth is an exotic pest introduced from Europe in year 2020. The adult moth is brownish white coloured with nocturnal habitat. \r\nThe larvae feed on leaf surface and mine galleries 2-5 mm long in the epidermis of the leaves. Feeding by larvae infests plants and is specifically devastating on early Allium spp. Plants (Dewangan and Deole 2021). Grooves and holes in the inner leaves of mature plants are examples of symptoms. The inner sides of hollow leaves may be fed on by larvae, which then produce translucent \"windows\" or bands on the leaf tissue (Dewangan and Deole 2021). The information on its management practices is inadequate.\r\nPrevention of invasive species. The first step in prevention of invasive insect pests is identification and paying close attention. These could be listed on a \"blacklist\" and denied admission according to national law. It is reasonable to consider a species safe (to put it on a \"white list\") if it has passed a risk assessment examination, but monitoring is still necessary to make sure the prediction holds true over time. Most species in the globe should be put on a \"grey list\" because it is unknown whether they could become invasive.\r\nManagement of new invasive insect pests. The basic steps in management of new invasive pests vary depending on the type of organism, population size, biology, status of pest and available mitigation options. \r\n1. Identification: The professional should appropriately identify the invading insect pests.\r\n2. Risk assessments: Find out first how much risk the invasive insect problem poses to the neighbourhood. Examine the biology of the organism, its local and global distribution, the pest\'s status, available mitigation measures and the window of opportunity for taking action.\r\n3. Eradication programme: The eradication of invasive species should be carried out widely if the pest poses a substantial risk. Other outreach initiatives should be launched to inform the public about this pest.\r\n4. Risk assessment review: Understanding invasive species and the degree of risk they pose in new environments is essential. It is important to be aware of the biology, distribution, economic significance, and management options.\r\n5. Monitoring: The survey data for the majority of organisms two years or two generations is taken into consideration for the program\'s success in eradicating them. \r\n','P.V. Raghuteja, N.B.V. Chalapathi Rao and E. Padma (2022). A Review on Invasive Pests of Horticultural Crop Ecosystems. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 14(3): 1209-1217.'),(5454,'136','Influence of Organic and Inorganic Fertilizers on Growth, Yield and Quality of Turmeric (Curcuma longa L.) cv. Salem','U.B. Anuradha*, S.S. Patil, A.R. Kurubar, G. Ramesh and S. Hiregoudar','205 Influence of Organic and Inorganic Fertilizers on Growth, Yield and Quality of Turmeric U.B. Anuradha.pdf','',1,'The persistent application of inorganic nutrients is not only a costly affair bid also detrimental to soil and plant health. Integrated nutrient management which is the combined application of organic and inorganic matters as the nutrient sources is effective combination to supply the recommended dose of nitrogen. The present investigation was conducted to study the integrated nutrient approaches in turmeric cv. Salem. The significant differences were observed among the various treatments. Soil application of 50 per cent of RDN through inorganic sources remaining 50 per cent of RDN through organic sources as pongamia cake (T7) effected in significantly vigorous growth of the plants which resulted in higher rhizome yield (43.94 t ha-1) dry rhizome yield (1.85 t ha-1) as well as turmeric powder yield (1.67 t ha-1). However, application of RDN through inorganic sources (T1) as per the RDF resulted in lower fresh rhizome yield, dry rhizome yield and turmeric powder which coupled with lower plant growth and lower yield parameters. The highest quality of curcumin was resulted in T1 of 100 per cent recommended dose of fertilizer and FYM has found with maximum curcumin content (2129.32 ppm) and minimum curcumin content of 1805.39 ppm was noticed in application of 50 per cent of recommended dose of nitrogen through inorganic sources and 25 per cent of recommended dose of nitrogen with pongamia cake (T4) where as highest oleoresin content (12.80%) was observed in T4 (50 % of recommended dose of nitrogen through inorganic sources and 25 per cent of recommended dose of nitrogen with pongamia cake) where as lowest oleoresin content (8.90%) was observed in treatment T1 (100 % recommended dose of fertilizer and FYM).','RDN, FYM, Vermicompost and turmeric.','Integrated approach of inorganic and organic manures resulted in the higher yield compare to others. As turmeric is heavy feeder, it provides the nutrients continuously throughout the growing period which ultimately helps in higher accumulation nutrients in the rhizome. Influence of integrated application of 50% RDN through inorganic sources with \r\n50 % RDN through organic sources as pongamia cake was found to be superior with respect to growth and yield of turmeric and application of 100% recommended dose of fertilizer and FYM treatment resulted in higher curcumin content.\r\n','INTRODUCTION\r\nTurmeric (Curcuma longa L.) is an ancient, most valuable and sacred spice of India. It is an herbaceous, perennial belonging to the family of Zingiberaceae. India is the largest producer and exporter of this crop. It is extensively used in culinary application, cosmetic, pharmaceutical and dyeing industries. It is also used in religious ceremonies. Curcumin, the primary pigment of turmeric, is generally used in various food industries as a food colourant. Its having antimicrobial, anti-inflammatory, antioxidant property and have a potential application in clinical research (Heath et al., 2004). Across the world, strong demand for Indian spices such as turmeric, ginger and saffron and increased the 192% of export value. India is the world\'s largest producer of turmeric and produces 70-75% of world\'s total production (Anon., 2022). In order to meet the export and internal demands of turmeric, production has to be increased. Turmeric being a heavy feeder and exhaustive crop responds very well to nutrients application. The continuous use of high dose of chemical fertilizers has an adverse effect not only on soil health and but also on environment. The combined use of organic and inorganic fertilizers not only increases the yield but also improves the physical, chemical and biological property of soil which further improves fertility, productivity and water holding capacity of soil. The organic source will help to maintain nutrient equilibrium in soils whereas, the inorganic fertilizers readily furnish nutrient which would enhance the initial growth in the crop and finally results in better growth, development and yield (Singh et al., 2009) with this background the present experiment was conducted to study the effect of integrated nitrogen management on yield and quality of turmeric.\r\nMATERIALS AND METHODS\r\nThe experiment was carried out at Horticulture Farm, College of Agriculture, University of Agricultural Sciences, Raichur, Karnataka, India, during 2016-17. The experiment was laid out in a randomized complete block design with eight treatments replicated thrice. The following treatments were included in the study to impose on turmeric cv. Salem.\r\n(RDF = 150:125:250 NPK kg/ha)\r\nT1 – 100% RDF + FYM\r\nT2 - 75 % RDN + 25 % nitrogen through Neemcake\r\nT3 – 75% RDN + 25% nitrogen through Vermicompost\r\nT4 – 75% RDN + 25 %nitrogen through Pongamia cake\r\nT5 – 50% RDN + 50 % nitrogen through Neemcake\r\nT6 – 50% RDN + 50% nitrogen through Vermicompost\r\nT7 – 50% RDN + 50% nitrogen through Pongamia cake \r\nT8 – 50% RDN + 2% Urea as foliar spay \r\nThe rhizomes were with the spacing of 45 cm × 22.5cm. The required quantity of FYM, neemcake, pongamia cake and vermicompost for gross plot area were computed as per their N contents and applied in respective plots as per the treatments. Observations were recorded for growth parameters at 150 days after planting, yield and quality parameters after the harvest of the crop.\r\nRESULTS AND DISCUSSION\r\nGrowth. The data on presented in the Table 1 revealed that significant differences at all stages of growth. Plant height (122.23cm), Number of leaves per plant (34.40), Number of tillers per clump (5.03) and Leaf area index (3.75) exhibited significantly higher values at 150 DAP respectively effected through the consortia of application of 50 per cent RDN through inorganic and 50 per cent RDN through organic sources as pongamia cake (T7). However, the application of 100 per cent RDF along with FYM resulted in significantly lower per cent of emergence, plant height, number of leaves per plant, number of tillers per clump and leaf area index 87.50 (at 45DAP), 107.43cm, 26.30, 4.07 and 3.37 at 150 DAP respectively through T1. The observations were made at vigorous growth stages of crop at 50, 100 and 150 DAP.(Table 1.)\r\nAt 150 days the vegetative growth slowed down and lower values were recorded for plant height and number of leaves per plant. The plant exhibited the vigorous growth between 50 to100 DAP. This trend was in good agreement with the observations of Manohar Rao et al. (2005) in turmeric. The slow growth after 150 days might be attributed to rhizomes development due to source and sink relationship. Transportation of more photosynthates from source (leaves) to sink (rhizomes). The number of leaves per tiller was significantly promoted with all the organic, inorganic and recommended dose of INM treatments (Singh, 2015; Sarma et al., 2015; Datta et al., 2017).\r\nYield. The data presented in the Table 2 revealed that application of RDN through T7 produced significantly superior yield attributes like more number of mother rhizomes (3.67), more number of primary rhizomes (14.13), secondary rhizomes (4.40). Similarly, the same treatment T7 has shown the maximum weight of mother rhizome (177.00g), primary rhizome (253.33g) and secondary rhizomes (40.63g) per clump. However, significantly lower number of mother rhizomes (3.00), primary rhizomes (8.40), secondary rhizomes (2.80), weight of mother rhizomes (125.67g), weight of primary and secondary rhizomes per clump (161.67g and 22.27g respectively) through T1. \r\nThe fresh rhizome yield and dry rhizome yield per hectare was significantly high with 43.94 tonnes and 4.17 tonnes respectively in T7. On the contrary T1 resulted in significantly lower fresh rhizome yield and dry rhizome yield (25.55 t ha-1 and 1.85 t ha-1 respectively). The highest dry recovery was notices in same treatment T7. Highest turmeric powder yield (3.68 t ha-1) might be due to the increased dry rhizome yield through the imposition of treatment T7. Higher yield of dry rhizomes (4.17 t ha-1) might be attributed due to higher fresh rhizome yield which ultimately results in highest turmeric powder yield (3.68 t ha-1) through the imposition of treatment T7. Significantly higher rhizome yield obtained from T7 might be due to the effect of maximum number of mother rhizomes, primary rhizomes, secondary rhizomes, weight of mother rhizomes per clump, weight of primary and secondary rhizomes per clump also the higher nutrient status of pongamia cake preferably high N and K content compared to other organic sources such as neemcake and vermicompost. Especially N and K are two important nutrients for boosting the growth and yield of turmeric. Nitrogen is involved in chlorophyll synthesis and it influences stomatal conductance and photosynthetic efficiency. N is responsible for 26 to 41 per cent of crop yields. K plays catalytic roles in the plant rather than becoming an integral part of plant components. It regulates the permeability of cell walls and activities of various mineral elements as well as neutralizing physiologically important organic acids. Banafor et al., (1995); Sugtto et al. (1995); Padmapriya et al. (2007); Srinivasan et al. (2016); Amala et al. (2019) reported that with the increase in K levels growth, leaves number, tillers number and rhizome yield increased. \r\nQuality. The intensity of yellow colour of the rhizome directly depends upon the quantity of curcumin content (Singh, 2014). The data presented in the Table 3 revealed that, quality parameters viz., curcumin and oleoresin content of turmeric was significantly influenced by combined application of organic manures with inorganic fertilizers. The maximum curcumin content (2129.32 ppm) was noticed in treatment T1 whereas, minimum curcumin content (1858.16 ppm) was noticed in the treatment T7. The high curcumin content observed through treatment T1 which indicated that, low yielding treatments were exhibited higher curcumin content where as high yielding treatment T7 recorded less curcumin content. The maximum oleoresin content (12.80%) was observed in treatment T4 and minimum oleoresin content (8.90%) was noticed in treatment T1. Potassium is often described as a quality element for crop production. It increased the yield, size of fingers in ginger and turmeric. It also increases oleoresin in ginger and curcumin recovery in turmeric (Sadanandan and Hamza 1998; Isaac et al., 2016; Tripathi et al., 2021). Based on the present findings, it concluded that integrated application of 50% inorganic and 50% organic sources through pongamia cake has resulted best treatment for yield of rhizome. For curcumin content T1 has shown the best result. \r\n','U.B. Anuradha, S.S. Patil, A.R. Kurubar, G. Ramesh and S. Hiregoudar (2022). Influence of Organic and Inorganic Fertilizers on Growth, Yield and Quality of Turmeric (Curcuma longa L.) cv. Salem. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 14(3): 1218-1221.'),(5455,'136','Seasonal Influence on Pollen Yield of different Coconut varieties in Coastal Andhra Pradesh','Srinivasu P.*, Kalpana Motha, Aparna V., Naram Naidu L. and Paratpararao M.','206 Seasonal Influence on Pollen Yield of different Coconut varieties in Coastal Andhra Pradesh SRINIVASU P.pdf','',1,'The present investigation entitled “Seasonal influence on pollen yield of different coconut varieties in coastal Andhra Pradesh” was conducted during 2021-2022 at Horticulture Research Station, Ambajipeta, East Godavari District, A.P. The experiment is laid out in a Factorial Randomized Block Design with two factors at unequal levels and replicated thrice with the main aim to find out the effect of different seasons on floral/ inflorescence characters in different coconut varieties and pollen yield from fresh staminate male flowers viz., East Coast Tall (ECT), Philippines Ordinary Tall (PHOT), Ganga Bondam Green Dwarf (GBGD) and Chowghat Orange Dwarf (COD). The results revealed that the varieties viz., ECT & PHOT recorded the highest floral traits compared to dwarf varieties during rainy season. Maximum number of spikelets recorded in ECT (41.00), maximum mean length of spikelet (49.66 cm) and number of staminate flowers per spikelet (218.27) was recorded in PHOT in rainy season respectively. Maximum pollen yield was recorded in PHOT (1.07 g) in summer season','Coconut (Cocos nucifera L.), spikelets per spadix, spikelet, male flowers, pollen yield.','From the study, it is inferred that the floral traits viz., number of spikelets, length of spikelets, number of male flowers and pollen yield have been performed better in the tall varieties like ECT and PHOT as compared to the dwarf varieties like GBGD and COD. With respect to seasons the pollen yield during summer season is high which can be stored for hybridization purpose in rainy season.','INTRODUCTION\r\nThe coconut palm - Cocos nucifera L. (2n=32) is a woody perennial monocotyledonous tree that belongs to the family Aceraceae, subfamily Cocoideae that includes 27 genera and 600 species. Harries (1990) proposed the ancestral home of coconut as coasts and islands of the Tethys Sea, where it dispersed to islands of Indian Ocean and Pacific Ocean by floating and domesticated in the continental coast and larger islands of Malesia. The palm is referred to as ‘Kalpa Vriksha’ which means ‘the tree which provides all the necessities of life’. It is also called ‘The tree of Wealth’ or ‘The tree of Life’ (Ahuja et al. 2014). \r\nCoconut is distributed mainly in coastal regions between 20°N and 20°S from sea level to 1000 m above sea level in more than 86 countries which can be grouped into eight distinct coastal / oceanic regions on four continents (Harries 2001). The ideal growing temperature for coconut ranges between 24°C and 30°C (Woodroof, 1979). Coconut plays a significant role in the economy of India and is third largest coconut producing country in the world. \r\nThe coconut palm produces an inflorescence in the axil of each leaf that bears a large number of spikelets with male and female flowers. The female flowers are at the base of each spikelet, while large number of male flowers are closely arranged above the female flowers. Inflorescences open successively at intervals varying from 22 to 30 days, depending on the environmental conditions and age of the palm. From the second to the nineteenth day after opening of the inflorescence, the male flowers open. (Liyanage et al., 1954). Anthesis occurs in the early hours of the day and proceeds from tip downwards in the spikelet. \r\nPollen yield per inflorescence varies from a little over 1 g in some dwarfs to about 10 g in talls. Gangolly et al. (1961) reported a seasonal influence on production of pollen in individual male flowers as well as total production of pollen in the inflorescences. Pollen production in individual flowers has been observed to be significantly higher in summer and cold seasons than in rainy season. Studies conducted in India have revealed a diurnal variation in pollen catches, with pollen catches during the night significantly lower than during the day. A seasonal variation was also observed in production of pollen. Atmospheric pollen catches in March and April were found to be significantly higher than during other months. There was an increase of yield of nuts during periods when pollen catches were heavy and vice versa. \r\n Generally, coconut pollen is mainly utilized for the production of hybrids to supply to the farmers and also for creation of variability by breeders. The demand for quality hybrid seedlings is always high by the farmers. The hybrid seed production starts after the end of the rainy season, usually from November to May in Kerala State while in coastal Andhra Pradesh, it starts from second fortnight of September to June. Preliminary studies showed that there was no pollen yield in the spikelets during the months of June to August in Andhra Pradesh. In order to have continuous supply of pollen throughout year for hybridization, the present study on Seasonal influence on pollen yield of different coconut varieties in coastal Andhra Pradesh” with an objective to study the influence of seasons on floral traits and pollen yield.\r\nMATERIAL AND METHODS\r\nThe experiment was conducted during 2021-2022 at Horticulture Research Station, Ambajipeta, Andhra Pradesh in Factorial Randomized Block Design with two factors (Varieties & Seasons) at unequal levels and replicated thrice with four palms in each. In the present study two coconut types viz., Talls (East Coast Tall (ECT) & Philliphinnes Orinary Tall (PHOT)) and Dwarfs viz., Ganga Bondam Green Dwarf (GBGD) and Chowghat Orange Dwarf (COD) and different seasons viz., winter, summer and rainy were taken. The data on mean number of spikelets per spadix, spikelet length and number of male flowers per spadix were recorded in different seasons. \r\nCollection of pollen from male flowers: After the complete emergence from the leaf axils (once every 20-25 days) and just before the natural opening of the male flowers, inflorescences were bagged to prevent contamination by foreign pollen. After 6 to 7 days, spikes were collected on a bright sunny day between 8 – 10 am when the male flowers started opening from the tip. Male flowers were stripped off from the spikelets. The male flowers were placed between the folds of thick paper and gently crushed with the help of a roller and 100 g of staminate flowers were weighed. The dried male flowers were sieved (mesh size - 0.2 mm) and pollen was weighed. Pollen yield of different coconut varieties was calculated from fresh staminate male flowers (g/100 g).\r\nThe results of floral traits and pollen were subjected to one-way ANOVA and significant differences were evaluated by DMRT using the SPSS 16.2 software.\r\nRESULTS AND DISCUSSION\r\nThe results on mean spikelets per spadix, mean spikelet length (cm) and mean number of staminate flowers per spikelet was depicted in Table 1 showed significant difference among the varieties and seasons whereas the interaction between varieties and seasons with all the parameters showed non-significant. The mean number of spikelets per spadix, mean length of the spikelet and number of staminate flowers per spikelet in different varieties ranged from 29.43 to 39.68, 33.89 to 47.52 and 166.46 to 205.76 respectively where as the mean number of spikelets per spadix ranged from 34.18 to 37.58, mean length of spikelet from 36.82 to 41.00 and mean number of staminate flowers from 183.96 to 195.68 in various seasons\r\nAmong the different varieties, the highest number of spikelets per spadix and maximum spikelet length (cm) were recorded in Talls viz., East Coast Tall (39.68 & 36.13) & Philippines Ordinary Tall (38.88 & 47.52) compared to dwarfs i.e., Ganga Bondam Green Dwarf (34.64 & 33.89) and Chowghat Orange Dwarf (29.43 & 36.46). Among the varieties, highest number of spikelets was noticed in East Coast Tall (39.68) and minimum in Chowghat Orange Dwarf (29.43) and maximum spikelet length (cm) was observed in Philippines Ordinary Tall (47.52) and minimum in Ganga Bondam Green Dwarf (33.89). With respect to the number of staminate flowers per spikelet, Talls viz., Philippines Ordinary Tall (205.76) and East Coast Tall (197.17) compared to dwarfs i.e., Ganga Bondam Green Dwarf (166.46) and Chowghat Orange Dwarf (188.10). Maximum number of staminate flowers was observed in Philippines Ordinary Tall (205.76) while minimum in Chowghat Orange Dwarf (188.10). Variations among the different cultivars of coconut in respect of floral characteristics were reported by many works. (Panda, 1982; Ratnambal et al. (2003); Kumaran et al., 2004; Hemavathy & Balaji, 2008). These findings are also harmony with those found by Singh et al., (2021) where floral traits of thirteen local tall coconut genotypes were studied and significant differences among the traits were observed, except the number of inflorescences. Hemavathy & Balaji (2008) found more number of spikelets per spadix in Ganga bondam (41.5) among dwarf cultivars.\r\nIt is noticed from the Table 1 that the mean spikelets per spadix, mean spikelet length (cm) and mean number of staminate flowers per spikelet showed significant difference among various seasons and where as the mean number of spikelets per spadix ranged from 34.18 to 37.58, mean length of spikelet from 36.82 to 41.00 and mean number of staminate flowers from 183.96 to 195.68 in various seasons. Among various seasons, the highest mean number of spikelets per spadix (37.58), mean length of the spikelet (41.00 cm) and mean number of staminate flowers per spadix (195.68) were recorded during rainy season whereas the lowest number of spikelets per spadix (34.18), mean length of the spikelet (36.82 cm) and mean number of staminate flowers per spadix (183.96) were recorded during winter. The finding was in tune with the results Samanta et al., 2009 who reported that maximum number of spikelets per inflorescence was observe in winter months whereas minimum number of spikelets per inflorescence was in summer months. Also notice maximum spikelet length during December while shortest spikelet length during February.\r\nInteraction between varieties and seasons on mean length of the spikelet, mean length of spikelet (cm) and mean number of staminate flowers per spikelet were found non-significant (Table 1). The highest number of spikelets per spadix (41.00) is recorded in East Coast Tall during rainy season whereas maximum mean spikelet length (49.66 cm) and mean number for staminate flowers per spikelet (218.27) were recorded in Philippines Ordinary Tall during rainy season. Minimum number of spikelets per spadix (28.29) is registered in Chowghat Orange Dwarf during winter season whereas minimum mean length of spikelet (32.15 cm) and mean number of staminate flowers per spadix were observed in Ganga bondam Green Dwarf during winter season. \r\nPollen yield (g/100 g of fresh staminate male flowers). The data pertaining to the pollen yield from fresh staminate male flowers of different varieties as influenced by different seasons are presented in Table 2 and Fig. 1. Pollen yield (g/100 g of staminate flowers) in different varieties, seasons and their interaction between varieties and seasons were highly significant. The pollen yield (g/100 g of staminate flowers) in different coconut varieties ranged from 0.54 to 0.93 g whereas in various seasons from 0.53 to 0.80 g. Talls viz., Philippines Ordinary Tall & East coast tall recorded the highest pollen yield compared to dwarfs viz., Ganga bondam Green Dwarf.\r\nAmong the different varieties (Fig 1), the highest amount pollen yield (g/100 g staminate flowers) was recorded in Philippines Ordinary Tall (0.93 g) followed by East Coast Tall (0.71 g) and lowest was recorded in Chowghat Orange Dwarf (0.54 g). Maximum pollen yield (g/100 g staminate flowers) was recorded during summer season (0.80 g) followed by winter season (0.74 g) and minimum during rainy season (0.53 g). It is noticed from Table 2 that the interaction between the varieties and seasons showed maximum pollen yield(g/100g of staminate flowers) in Philippines Ordinary Tall during summer season (1.07 g) followed by winter season (0.99 g) whereas minimum pollen yield was recorded in Chowghat Orange Dwarf during rainy season (0.40 g). These findings are also in good conformity with the observation of These results were in hormony with the finding of Manthriratna (1965) who stated that pollen yield per inflorescence varies from a little over 1 g in some dwarfs to about 10 g in talls. \r\nGangolly et al. (1961) who noticed seasonal influence on production of pollen in individual male flowers as well as total production of pollen in the inflorescences. Pollen production in individual flowers has been observed to be significantly higher in summer and cold seasons than in rainy season.\r\n','Srinivasu P., Kalpana Motha, Aparna V., Naram Naidu L. and Paratpararao M. (2022). Seasonal Influence on Pollen Yield of different Coconut varieties in Coastal Andhra Pradesh. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 14(3): 1222-1225.'),(5456,'136','Influence of Seed Film Coating Polymers on Seed Yield, its Components and Seed Quality Parameters of Rice','K. Parimala, A. Padmasri, I. Swarnalatha Devi and T. Pradeep','207 Influence of Seed Film Coating Polymers on Seed Yield, its Components and Seed Quality Parameters of Rice K. Parimala.pdf','',1,'The experiment was carried out to assess the influence of seed film coating polymers on seed yield and seed quality parameters of rice. The trial was conducted with four treatments by using the rice variety MTU-1010 both at field and laboratory during 2015-16 and 2016-17 at Seed Research and Technology Centre, Rajendranagar, Hyderabad. The study revealed that effect of seed film coating polymers was found to be non-significant among the treatments studied forseed yield and its components. Treatment with Polymer DISCO AG SP RED L-200 + Thiram + Quick Roots/mycorrhiza showed slight superiority over other treatments for plant height, number of tillers plant-1, number of filled grains panicle-1, seed set (%) and seed yield plant-1. Studies on influence of seed coating polymers on storage of paddy seed revealed that germination percentage was found to be non-significant for the treatments studied, while storage periods were found to be significant. The seed treatment with Polymer (DISCO AG SP RED L-200) + Thiram + Quick Roots/mycorrhiza showed significantly higher seedling length and seedling vigour index compared to other treatments. Regardless of the seed treatments, all the seed quality parameters declined as the storage period prolonged. The present investigation revealed that seeds treated with Polymer (DISCO AG SP RED L-200) + Thiram + Quick Roots/mycorrhiza was able to increase seedling vigour','Rice, seed coating polymer, seed yield, seed quality, germination, seedling vigour index.','Based on the study it can be understood that there was no significant effect of seed film coating polymers on seed yield and its components in rice. However, seed treatment with Polymer (DISCO AG SP RED L-200 + Thiram + Quick roots/Mycorrhiza) showed superiority for seed quality traits such as seedling length and seedling vigour index. Further validation of results and identification of newer effective formulations are required for better delivery of the products.','INTRODUCTION \r\nSeed treatment provides protection during the critical germination and seedling establishment stages when the seed and emerging seedlings are unable to protect themselves from invasive pathogens (Haynes et al., 1997 and West et al., 1985). Seed enhancements are used to promote good germination and improved seedling vigour resulting in a healthier crop and thus enhanced yield potential. Generally, seed coating contains nutrients and seed protectants like fungicides and insecticides (Komala et al., 2018). The main advantages of film coating on seeds includes regulation of rate of water imbibition, the transport and release of photoactive chemicals, fungicides/insecticides and personnel protection against toxic dust. \r\nThe polymer coating is easy to apply, quickly disperses and non-hazardous to seeds during germination. It also reduces the wastage of chemical, helps to hold all required nutrients which facilitate to improve the physiological potential of seeds besides protecting the seeds from fungal and insect attack. Seed film coatings improve the germination, protecting the seeds from adverse field conditions and environmental stress. It may act as a physical barrier and reduce the leaching of inhibitors from the seed coverings and may restrict oxygen diffusion to the embryo (Vanangamudi et al., 2003). Polymer coating favours the exploitation of fullest potential of the plant protectants by way of preventing dusting and proper adherence of the material on the seed surface (Sivasakthi and Renganayaki 2022). \r\nSeed quality during storage is affected by moisture content, temperature and relative humidity in the storage environment. Though the seed quality is governed by genetic makeup, proper seed storage and retention of viability are important for maintenance of seed vigour (Deepa et al., 2013). The objective of this experiment is to assess the effect of seed film coating polymers with fungicide and microbial seed inoculants on seed yield, its components and seed quality parameters.\r\nMATERIAL AND METHODS\r\nThe study was carried out to evaluate the benefits of film coating polymers on seed yield and quality parameters of rice variety MTU-1010. Both field and storage studies were conducted to assess the effect of film coating polymers on seed yield and seed quality parameters. The field trial was laid out in randomized block design with five replications during kharif, 2015 and kharif, 2016 at Seed Research and Technology Centre, PJTSAU, Rajendranagar, Hyderabad. The experiment consists of four treatments viz., T1 (Untreated seeds used as Control), T2 (Polymer DISCO AG SP RED L-200 + Thiram + Carboxine), T3 (Polymer DISCO AG SP RED L-200 + Thiram + Genius Coat) and T4 (Polymer DISCO AG SP RED L-200 + Thiram + Quick Roots / mycorrhiza). Treatment wise seedlings were raised in nursery bed and 25 days old seedlings were transplanted in main field with a spacing of 20 cm between rows and 15 cm plant to plant. Recommended package of practices and need based plant protection measures were taken up to raise the healthy crop. Observations were recorded for the traits viz., days to 50% flowering, days to maturity, plant height (cm), internode length (cm), panicle length (cm), number of productive tillers plant-1, number of filled grains panicle-1, seed setting (%)and seed yield plant-1(g). Ten randomly selected plants from each treatment and replication were used for recording the data on seed yield and its attributes. The data on days to 50% flowering and days to maturity were recorded on plot basis.\r\nThe laboratory study was conducted to assess the effect of film coating polymers on seed quality parameters during storage. The experiment was conducted in factorial completely randomized design and data was collected at bimonthly interval upto six months of storage. Observations were recorded for germination (%), seedling root length (cm), seedling shoot length (cm) and seedling vigour index. Standard laboratory test for germination was conducted as per the ISTA rules by adopting between paper method. Seed germination was calculated as number of normal seedlings obtained to the total number of seeds tested and expressed as percentage.\r\nTen normal seedlings were selected randomly from each treatment and replication on 14th day for measuring root length and shoot length. The root length was measured from the cotyledonary node to tip of the primary root using a linear scale. Ten seedlings used for recording root length were utilized for measuring the shoot length. The shoot length was measured from the collar region to the apex. The average value was computed and expressed in centimeter. The seedling vigour index-I was calculated as per the method suggested by Abdul- Baki and Anderson (1973) and expressed in whole number.\r\nSeedling Vigour Index-I = Germination (%) × Seedling length (cm)\r\nThe mean data were subjected to statistical analysis as per the procedure given by Panse and Sukhatme (1985) and the data was analysed using the Windostat software.\r\nRESULTS AND DISCUSSION\r\nThe results revealed that effect of polymer coating along with seed treating chemicals exhibited non-significant differences for seed yield and its components (Table 1). Among the treatments evaluated, seed coating with Polymer (DISCO AG SP RED L-200) + Thiram + Quick Roots / mycorrhiza showed slight numerical superiority for the traits such as plant height (94.74 cm), productive tillers plant-1 (13.98), number of filled grains panicle-1 (139.0), seed setting (90.76%) and seed yield plant-1 (29.80 g). Whereas the control (untreated seed) showed lower seed yield plant-1 (26.44 g) and its component traits. Higher seed yield in T4 is attributed to higher productive tillers, filled grains panicle-1and seed set (%). Similar results were observed by Dutta and Bhattacharya (2020) who reported that seed treatment with Polymer (DISCO AG SP RED L-200) + Thiram + Quick roots/Mycorrhiza influenced more translocation of nutrients from root zone thereby increased the number of tillers hill-1 and seed yield compared to control (T1). Gevrek et al. (2012) who reported that seed treatment with GA3 @ 1000 mg/L of water using seed film coating technique increased seed yield of rice.\r\nSeed storage studies were conducted to evaluate the effect of seed film coating polymers on seed quality parameters such as germination (%), seedling length and seedling vigour index at bimonthly interval (Table 2). A narrow range of variation was observed for the trait germination percentage which varies from 93.61 to 94.22 and 92.67 to 95.04 for the seed treatments and storage periods studied respectively. Non-significant differences were observed for the seed treatments evaluated while storage periods showed significant differences. Whereas interaction effects between seed treatments and storage period were found to be non-significant. Irrespective of the seed treatments, germination percentage was declined as storage period prolonged. Seedling length was found to be significantly different for the seed treatments and storage periods studied. Seed treatment with Polymer (DISCO AG SP RED L-200) + Thiram + Quick Roots/mycorrhiza (T4) was found to be significantly superior over other treatments. Seedling length was found to be high in 2MAS which was significantly superior over 4MAS and 6MAS. The influence due to seed treatments and storage periods on seedling length revealed the existence of significant differences among the interactions. The treatment T4 at different storage periods studied showed superiority over other interactions. Different storage periods studied revealed that seedling length was gradually decreased from 2MAS to 6MAS with a mean reduction of 21.72%. \r\nHigher mean seedling vigour index was noticed in the treatment Polymer (DISCO AG SP RED L-200) + Thiram + Quick Roots/mycorrhiza (2446) while lowest recorded in control (2203). Significant differences were recorded for seed treatments, storage periods and interaction effects. Among the different seed treatments evaluated, seeds treated with Polymer (DISCO AG SP RED L-200) + Thiram + Quick Roots/mycorrhiza registered significantly superior performance than other treatments. This is in accordance with the findings of Dutta and Bhattacharya (2020) who reported superiority for seeding length and seedling vigour index. Higher seedling vigour index in polymer coating along with fungicide and bioagent might be due to higher germination percentage, low electrolyte leakage and less pathogen attack. Decreasing trend in seedling vigour index was observed as storage period advanced and it showed a mean reduction of 23.71 % at the end of storage period. The decrease in seedling vigour index may be due to age induced decline in germination and seeding length. \r\n','K. Parimala, A. Padmasri, I. Swarnalatha Devi and T. Pradeep (2022). Influence of Seed Film Coating Polymers on Seed Yield, its Components and Seed Quality Parameters of Rice. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 14(3): 1226-1228.'),(5457,'136','Studies on Seasonal Incidence of Natural Enemies of Pest complex on Broad Leaf Mustard, Brassica juncea var. rugosa Roxb. Tsen and Lee in the Valley of Manipur','Dosa Rajeshwari* and K. Mamocha Singh','208 Studies on Seasonal Incidence of Natural Enemies of Pest complex on Broad Leaf Mustard, Brassica juncea Trisha Sinha.pdf','',1,'An experiment was conducted to know the seasonal incidence of natural enemies of Pest complex on broad leaf mustard, Brassica juncea var. rugosa was studied during Rabi, 2019-20. A local variety “Lamtachabi” was used for the experiment. Number of replications were 10 with a plot size of (4m × 5) sq. M. 5 natural enemies were found associated with mustard aphid, Lipaphis erysimi. The five natural enemies of mustard aphid were Braconid wasp, Diaeretiellarapae (M’Intosh), Seven-spot ladybird beetle, Coccinella septempunctata, Transverse ladybird beetle, Coccinella transversalis, Ladybird beetle, Menochilus sexmaculata; Common hoverfly, Ischiodon scutellaris. Cotesia glomerata was observed infesting Pieris canidia. The experiment was conducted to know the seasonal incidence of natural enemies of pest complex on broad leaf mustard as very less or no work has been done on this, especially on this crop','Aphid, Parasitoid, Naturalenemy, Pest','Out of 6 natural enemies 5 are of mustard aphid and one found parasitizing on cabbage white butterfly, Pieris canidia i.e., Cotesia glomerata. Diaeretiella rapae was found parasitizing on Mustard aphid, Lipaphis erysimi, Coccinella septempunctata, Coccinella transversalis, Menochilus sexmaculata, Ischiodon scutellaris were predating on Lipaphis erysimi.','INTRODUCTION\r\nMustard production in India suffers from aphid, infestation considerably Rao et al. (2013). The predator species such as, green lacewing beetle, Chrysoperla carnea, eleven-spotted ladybird beetle, Coccinella undecimpunctata and seven-spotted ladybird beetle, Coccinella septempunctata were recorded when the pest population of aphids was sufficiently developed on the rapeseed varieties Talpur and Khuhro (2004). The incidence of the mustard aphid commenced from December 1st week and peaked in 3rd week of January with 300 aphids/plant. Where the aphidophagous predators namely C. septumpunctata, C. transversalis and Menochilus sexmaculata appeared high at January last week (20.00 coccinellid/plant) to March 1st week. The aphid predating syrphids populations were also recorded and its population were maximum at February 1st week (1.80 syrphids/plant). One aphid parasitoid, Diaretiallarapae (Hymenoptera: Braconidae) was also observed Hugar et al. (2008). Three coccinellids viz. Coccinella septempunctata, Menochilus sexmaculatus (Cheilomenes sexmaculata) and Hippodamia variegate and two chrysopids viz. Chrysoperlacarnea and Anisochrysaboninensis; the syrphid, Episyrphus balteatus and the chamaemyiid, Leucopis sp. were found associated with aphid colonies. Among them, only Leucopis sp., C. septempunctata and E. balteatus were recorded in significant numbers Kalra (1988). The density of the predator was observed to increase in response to increase in density of aphid prey in the field Bilashini and Singh (2010). Pieris canidia, an important insect pest of cabbage, Brassica oleracea var. capitata Linn., a related vegetable crop with broad leaf mustard in Manipur was reported by Singh et al. (2017). Singh et al. (2002) reported C. glomerata as important parasitoid of P. Canidia in Manipur.\r\nMATERIALS AND METHODS\r\nExperimental details: The experiment was conducted in the Experimental field of Department of Entomology, College of Agriculture, Central Agricultural University, Imphal, Manipur during Rabi; 2019-20. The experimental field was located at 24o 81`N latitude and 93o 89`E longitude in the valley of Manipur.\r\nThe soil type of the main field is clayey. ‘Lamtachabi’ a local cultivar of Broad leaf mustard was used for the experiment 4kg/ha seeds were sown in nursery. Fine sandy loam soil mixed with compost to prepare nursery bed. Line sowing was followed with a spacing of 10 cm between line to line. Nurseries were sown for 1st, 2nd and 3rd transplanting on 1st November, 2019; 1st December, 2019; and 1st January of 2020 respectively. Beds were made to a size of 4m × 5m. The recommended dose of NPK was applied at the rate of 80: 40: 40 g per plot. Seedlings were transplanted to the main field when they were 30 days old with a spacing of 45cm × 45cm.\r\nMethod of observations: Population of predatory lady bird beetles, syrphid flies and generalist predator like spiders were counted from the whole plants. Five plants were randomly selected from each replication and average population per plant were worked out for the Population of predatory lady bird beetles, syrphid flies and generalist predator like spiders. For aphid parasitoids, population of mummified aphids among the aphid population and total population of aphids from 3 leaves (one leaf each from top, middle and lower portion of plant) of each of the 5 randomly selected plants were counted. Parasitisation rate of the cabbage butterfly were counted by observing the parasitized larva among the larvae and per cent parasitisation were worked out. Percent parasitisation were worked out by using the following formula.\r\nStatistical Analysis. The experiment on the evaluation of seasonal incidence of pest complex and their natural enemies of broad leaf mustard was conducted by using Randomized Block Design (RBD). The data were analyzed through Microsoft Excel with the help of analysis of variance (two-way classification). The data of the experiment was transformed by using square root transformation and angular transformation wherever necessary in order to make the analysis of variance valid and feasible. When F values were found significant, then treatment means were compared by using CD (critical difference) values at 5% level of probability. The CD value was obtained by multiplying the standard error of mean difference with table value of t at 5% level of probability for error degrees of freedom (d.f.). Proper results and interpretation were made based on this analysis.\r\nRESULTS\r\nBraconid was p, Diaeretiella rapae M. Diaeretiella rapae was observed parasitizing mustard aphid, Lipaphis erysimi during the cropping period. Highest parasitisation of 5.30 percent was observed in the 42 DAT in the 1st November transplanted crop and lowest at 21 DAT with 1.95 per cent parasitisation. In the 1st December transplanted crop, maximum parasitisation of 6.07 percent was recorded in the 42 DAT and minimum at 21 DAT with 2.86 per cent. In the late transplanted crop i.e., 1st January transplantation peak parasitisation with 5.73 per cent was observed at 35 DAT and least parasitisation at 70 DAT with 3.51 percent.\r\nSeven-spot ladybird beetle, Coccinella septempunctata L. Coccinella septempunctata was one of the species of ladybird beetle which was recorded predating the aphid populations in the broad leaf mustard. During the observation, grub, pupae and adult populations of the ladybird beetles were counted together. From 35 DAT population of the ladybird beetle was observed (0.06 C. septempunctata/plant) and its population gradually increases and reaches its peak at 70 DAT with 1.20 C. septempunctata/plant. No record of the predator was observed up to 21 DAT in the 1st December transplanted crop. First population of the predator was observed at 28 DAT with least population of 0.08 C. septempunctata/plant. The maximum population in this plantation was recorded at 70 DAT with 1.48 C. septempunctata/plant. In the 1st January transplantation, the population was recorded from 21 DAT with minimum population of 0.12 C. septempunctata/plant. The population gradually increases and attains its maximum population of 1.70 C. septempunctata/plant at 70 DAT.\r\nAmong the three plantations, 1st January transplantation recorded highest average population (0.83 C. septempunctata/plant) and it was followed by 1st December plantation (0.65 C. septempunctata/plant) and 1st November plantation (0.48 C. septempunctata/plant) in descending order.\r\nTransverse ladybird beetle, Coccinella transversalis F. Unlike Coccinella septempunctata, the population of C. transversalis was observed from 21 DAT in all the three transplantations. In 1st November transplantation, the population of C. transversalis range from 0.12 C. transversalis/plant to 0.44 C. transversalis/plant. The maximum population of the predator was observed at 49 DAT and the minimum at 70 DAT. 0.06 to 0.28 C. transversalis/plant was the range of C. transversalis in 1st December transplantation. In 1st January transplanted crop, no population of C. transversalis was recorded at 70 DAT and maximum population of 0.16 C. transversalis was observed at both 49 and 56 DAT.\r\nAn average population of 0.26 C. transversalis/plant was observed in 1st November transplantation, which was the highest among the three transplantations. 1st December and 1st January transplantation recorded 0.15 and 0.07 C. transversalis/plant average population, respectively.\r\nMenochilus sexmaculata F. Another species of lady bird beetle, Menochilus sexmaculata was also observed predating on aphid during the cropping season. However, the predator was recorded only from 28 DAT to 56 DAT. The population of Menochilus sexmaculata range from 0.04 to 0.22 Menochilus sexmaculata/plant in 1st November transplantation and maximum population was recorded at 42 DAT. A slightly higher population of the predator was recorded in 1st December transplantation and the population range from 0.08 to 0.40 Menochilus sexmaculata/plant with highest population at 49 DAT. In 1st January transplantation, the peak population of the predator with 0.26 Menochilus sexmaculata/plant was observed at 42 DAT and lowest population of 0.10 Menochilus sexmaculata/plant was recorded at 56 DAT.\r\nAmong the three transplanting dates, maximum average population of the predator was observed in 1st December transplanting crop with 0.20 Menochilus sexmaculata/plant. 1st January transplantation recorded 0.15 Menochilus sexmaculata/plant and lowest average population of 0.11 Menochilus sexmaculata/plant in 1st November transplantation.\r\nCommon hoverfly, Ischiodon scutellaris F. Two species of syrphid flies viz., Ischiodon scutellaris and Episyrphus balteatus were also recorded predating on the aphid populations. Among the syrphid flies, population of Ischiodon scutellaris was predominant species and other syrphid species was negligible, hence it was not depicted in the table. Similar with Menochilus sexmaculata, the population of I. scutellaris/plant was depicted only from 28 DAT to 56 DAT as after 56 DAT population was negligibly low. In 1st November transplantation, the highest population of 0.60 I. scutellaris/plant was observed at 49 DAT and lowest with 0.16 I. scutellaris/plant at 28 DAT. In 1st December transplantation, the highest population of predatory fly was recorded at 56 DAT with 0.46 I. scutellaris/plant and lowest with 0.12 I. scutellaris/plant at 28 DAT. Similar with 1st December transplantation, in 1st January transplantation also, the highest predatory fly population was observed at 56 DAT with 0.34 I. scutellaris/plant and lowest population of 0.08 I. scutellaris/plant at 28 DAT.\r\nThe highest average population of the predatory fly during the cropping period was observed in 1st November transplantation with 0.40 I. scutellaris/plant and it was followed by 0.30 I. scutellaris/plant in 1st December transplantation. The lowest average population of 0.22 I. scutellaris/plant was observed in 1st January transplantation.\r\nWhite butterfly parasitoid, Cotesia glomerata L. Cotesia glomerata was observed infesting Pieris canidia. Larval parasitoid was observed starting from 42 DAT in all the dates of transplantation. In the 1st November transplanted crop, the parasitisation of P. canidia by C. glomerata ranged from 1.00 per cent to 1.83 per cent parasitisation and the highest parasitisation was recorded at 63 DAT. A little higher parasitisation rate was recorded in 1st December transplanted crop and it range from 1.60 per cent to 2.27 per cent parasitisation. The peak parasitisation was recorded at 63 DAT. In the 1st January transplanted crop, the lowest parasitisation was recorded at 56 DAT with only 0.59 per cent parasitisation and highest at 42 DAT and 70 DAT. In all the transplanting dates the per cent parasitisation were high up to 70 DAT.\r\nDISCUSSION\r\nBraconid was p, Diaeretiellarapae M. Highest average parasitisation among the three transplantations wasobserved in 1st January transplanted crop with 4.75 per cent. The aphid parasitoid, Diaeretiella rapae was found to be an important nymphal-adult parasitoid of mustard aphid, Lipaphis erysimi in Manipur condition. During the present investigation maximum percent parasitisation of 6.07 was recorded at 42 DAT in 1st December transplanted crop. Although the parasitoid arrived little late, it was found to be associated with the pest even up to late stage of the crop. Singh and Singh (2015) also reported D. rapae as important parasitoid of L. erysimi.\r\nSeven-spot ladybird beetle, Coccinella septempunctata L. The predatory ladybird beetle, Coccinella septempunctata was observed to be associated with the aphid population in the broad leaf mustard ecosystem. During the observation both grubs and adults were found predating on the aphid. The population of C. septempunctata was low during the early stage of the crop however it increases slowly with the advancement of crop stages as the population of the aphid also increases. In the later stage of the crop even the population of aphid start declining, the population of C. septempunctata remain high. The highest population of 1.70 C. septempunctata/plant was recorded at 70 DAT of 1st January transplanted crop. Bilashini and Singh (2010) reported C. septempunctata as important predator of L. erysimi in Manipur. Further, in another investigation at Manipur. Lokeshwari et al. (2012) reported C. septempunctata as efficient predator of L. erysimi in Manipur. The present finding is in conformity with the earlier findings from Manipur but in different crops.\r\nTransverse ladybird beetle, Coccinella transversalis F. A low population of Coccinella transversalis was found to be associated with the aphid population in the broad leaf mustard ecosystem. The predator population was found higher when the aphid population was high. The highest average population was recorded in the early transplantation i.e., 1st November transplantation with 0.26 C. transversalis/plant. Maximum population of the pest with 0.44 C. transversalis/plant was observed at 49 DAT of 1st November transplanted crop. The present finding is in conformity with Devi (2018), as she also reported C. transversalis as a predator of L. erysimi in Manipur. From other parts of the country like Uttar Pradesh, Shankar (2010) also reported C. transveraslis as an important predator of L. erysimi.\r\nMenochilus sexmaculata F. A low population of Menochilus sexmaculata was found to be associated with the aphid populations in the broad leaf mustard crop. Highest population of 0.40 M. sexmaculata/plant was observed at 49 DAT of 1st December transplanted crop. The predator population was higher when the aphid population is high on the crops. M. sexmaculataan important predator of L. erysimiat Gujarat was reported by Kalasariya et al. (2017). Rana (2006) also reported predation of L. erysimi by M. sexmaculata at Haryana, India.\r\nCommon hoverfly, Ischiodon scutellaris F. Among the syrphid flies, Ischiodon scutellaris was the predominant species which predates on the aphid population of mustard crop. The highest population of 0.60 maggots/plant was recorded at the 49 DAT of 1st November transplanted crop and also the highest average population was recorded in the 1st November transplanted crop. The syrphid flies population remains high even if the population of aphid started declining. I. scutellaris predating on mustard aphid at Manipur was also reported by Devi (2018). Devi et al. (1996) also earlier reported that I. scutellaris is an important predator of L. erysimi in Manipur.\r\nWhite butterfly parasitoid, Cotesia glomerata L. The population of P. canidia in 1st December transplanting crop recorded highest average parasitisation rate with 1.82 per cent parasitisation followed by 1st November transplanted crop (1.39 per cent parasitisation) and 1st January transplanted crop (0.86 per cent parasitisation) in descending order. The larval parasitoid, Cotesia glomerata was found to be parasitizing larvae of Pieris canidia. The parasitoid population came little late. Parasitized larvae of P. canidia were recorded from the 42 DAT. Parasitisation per cent during the study period was low and maximum parasitisation of 2.27 per cent was recorded at 63 DAT of 1st December transplanted crop. The present finding is in the line of the finding of Singh et al. (2002).\r\n','Dosa Rajeshwari and K. Mamocha Singh (2022). Studies on Seasonal Incidence of Natural Enemies of Pest complex on Broad Leaf Mustard, Brassica juncea var. rugosa Roxb. Tsen and Lee in the Valley of Manipur. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 14(3): 1229-1233.'),(5458,'136','Evaluation of efficient Experimental Design for Leaf Analysis of Apple Cultivar “Red Delicious” as affected by Sample Size under Kashmir Climatic conditions','Ishfaq Ahmad Bhat*, S.A. Mir, Immad Shah and Uzma Majeed','209 Evaluation of efficient Experimental Design for Leaf Analysis of Apple Cultivar “Red Delicious” Ishfaq Ahmad Bhat.pdf','',1,'Much of the scientific advance in crop science relies on field experiments. The use of proper design in field experiments plays an important role in the achievement of accurate results. Comparative study of two major designs, i.e. the randomized complete block design (RCBD) and the Latin Square Design (LSD), was conducted to study the mineral composition of the leaves of the \'Red Delicious\' apple cultivar affected by the size of the sample. The relative efficiency of LSD to RCBD was calculated using data on the macro and micro nutrient content of leaves of Red delicious apple trees affected by the size of the sample. The Latin square design was found to be superior to the randomized complete block design and the LSD efficiency gain over RCBD was 52% when the number of experimental units per replication was one. When the experimental units per replication were increased significantly RCBD becomes superior to LSD. The study is going to help soil scientists in determine mineral composition of the leaves accurately there by making appropriate fertilizer recommendations based on these results.','Field experiments, Relative efficiency, Sample size, RCBD and LSD.','The study revealed that lain square design is superior to randomized complete block design as it provides adequate control over variability. However, with the increase in the size of experimental material the efficiency of latin square design relative to randomized complete block design is reduced and randomized complete block design becomes superior to latin square design. Therefore, it is recommended to use latin square design for leaf analysis when the experimental material per replication is small. ','INTRODUCTION\r\nExperimental design refers to the process by which an experiment is planned so that the appropriate data is collected and analyzed using statistical methods to achieve valid and objective conclusion Montgomery (1976). Experimental design is concerned with detailed methods of carrying out an experiment in order to achieve maximum desired response objective. In his first paper on field experimental designs, Fisher (1926) emphasized the importance of randomized arrangements in estimating experimental error and described the randomized complete block and Latin square designs. In agricultural field experimentation use of proper design play an important role in attaining precision of results. To maximize the information that can be extracted from such experiments, the use of efficient experimental design is crucial. Experimental designs have been widely used for control of experimental error. Some of the natural variations between the set of experimental units are physically handled in these designs these designs in order to make a minimum contribution to the differences between the means of treatment. Various experimental designs are available to meet the requirements of the experimenter in different practical situations in order to control the nature of variation.\r\nThe best design to be used in any given situation is the one that provides the maximum precision (efficiency) for estimating the desired effects and contrasts and has a simple layout and analysis. Thus, the experimental design with adequate variability control or with minimum error variance is said to be more efficient than the one with relatively larger variance. The design, which is found to be more efficient, is used to carry out the experiments and to obtain better results. In general, the relative efficiency of one design to another is measured in relation to reduced error, expected error mean squares or standard error of difference between genotype means (Cochran and Cox, 1957, Binns 1987; Magnussen 1990). The Relative Efficiency (RE) of the design say A to another design say B denoted as RE (A:B) in experimental design is defined in terms of number of design a replicates needed to achieve same result as one replicate of design A. The design an analysis of field experiments is complicated by soil heterogeneity. In order to mitigate experimental error, an acceptable experimental design is chosen from several available designs to satisfy the requirements of the experimenter under various circumstances.\r\nMATERIAL AND METHODS\r\nThe experiment was designed in a randomized, complete block design and latin square design consisting of 3 replicates for RCBD and 7 replicates for LSD with leaf samples of different sizes (10, 20, 30, 40, 50, 60, 70) as an treatment and an apple tree(variety “Red Delicious”) as an experimental unit. The leaf samples were analyzed for various macro and micro nutrients, and the results were used to compute the efficiency of experimental designs.\r\nRelative efficiency of latin square design (LSD): In estimating the efficiency of LSD over RCBD, we have to consider the type of blocks. If the LSD had been RCBB with columns as blocks it is termed as column blocking. Similarly, if LSD had been RCBD with rows as blocks it is termed as row blocking.\r\nUsing rows as blocks and columns as blocks, the approximate relative accuracy of LSD over RCBD can be obtained as\r\nWhen the error degrees of freedom is less than 20, the precision factor is taken into account. The precision factor is computed as\r\nTherefore, when error degrees of freedom is less than 20, the relative efficiency can be estimated by the formula\r\nWhere, Ee (LS) and Ee (RB) are error mean squares of LSD and RCBD respectively and n1 and n2 are their respective degrees of freedom. Since, the rows and columns are equal in number the precision factor formula holds good for both row and column blockings.\r\nIf rows are the only blocks, the mean square error of the randomized block design can be calculated as\r\nBut, if the columns are the only blocks, i.e. row blocking is ignored, then we obtain \r\nWhere, Ec, Er and Ee are mean squares for columns, rows and error in RCBD and nc, nr and ne are their respective degrees of freedom.\r\nThe efficiency of LSD relative to CRD is given as\r\nWhen the error degrees of freedom is less than 20, the precision factor is taken into account. The precision factor is computed as\r\nTherefore, when error degrees of freedom is less than 20, the relative efficiency can be estimated by the formula\r\nWhere, Ee (LS) and Ee (CR) are error mean squares of Latin Square Design and CRD respectively and n1 and n2 are their respective degrees of freedom.\r\nError mean square of CRD can be estimated as\r\nWhere, Ec, Er and Ee are the mean squares for columns, rows and error in Latin Square, respectively and nc, nr and ne are the degrees of freedom for columns, rows and error in LSD.\r\nRESULTS AND DISCUSSION\r\n The relative efficiency of the latin square design of order 7 with number of experimental units per replication 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6 with respect to the randomized complete block were determined and are shown in Table 1.\r\nThe study found that the latin square design was superior to the randomized complete block design to control the experimental error. The improvement in efficiency of the latin square design over randomized complete block design was 52% when the number of experimental units per replication was one. When the number of experimental units per replication was two, the efficiency of the latin square design increased by 40% over the randomized complete block design. However, with the increase in the number of experimental units per replication, the \r\nefficiency of the latin square design is reduced over the randomized complete block design.\r\nIt was found that randomized complete block design was superior to Latin square design when the number of experimental units per replication were 6. Therefore, it is evident that RCBD becomes more efficient than LSD as the number of replications is increased significantly. Moreover, RCBD is more efficient than LSD in the sense that it uses relatively small amount of experimental material as compared to latin Square design.\r\nNishu et al. (2017) also found that randomized complete block design is more effective than completely randomized design in reducing error variation, and Latin square design is superior to both completely randomized design and randomized complete block design. Syed et al. (2017) also concluded that in wheat yield trials, randomized complete block design is optimal of experimental designing compared to Latin square design\r\n','Ishfaq Ahmad Bhat, S.A. Mir, Immad Shah and Uzma Majeed (2022). Evaluation of efficient Experimental Design for Leaf Analysis of Apple Cultivar “Red Delicious” as affected by Sample Size under Kashmir Climatic conditions. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 14(3): 1234-1236.'),(5459,'136','Evaluation of Performance of different Varieties of Date palm (Phoenix dactylifera L.) under Ambient Storage conditions','Komal Kathuria*, Susheel Kumar and P.K. Yadav','210 Evaluation of Performance of different Varieties of Date palm _Phoenix dactylifera L._ Komal Kathuria.pdf','',1,'Fruits of Doka (Khalal) of ten varieties of date palm were stored under ambient temperatures to evaluate shelf life, quality and pattern of post-harvest changes occurring in the fruits. Observations on various physical parameters like Physiological loss in weight, rotting, sensory attributes like visual appearance and organoleptic performance of an edible doka stage fruits of different varieties of date palm were recorded at every 3rd day interval up to a storage period of a month. At ambient temperature, fruits were found completely rotten on 9th day of storage, so no observations were recorded after 9th day of storage. Physiological loss in weight, Per cent rotting increased with increasing storage period whereas sensory attributes like organoleptic evaluation and visual appearance of fruits decreased with the storage period. PLW was recorded minimum in Khuneizi (13.91%) followed by Barhee (14.47%) and least decay was observed in Zahidi (17.43%) followed by Khuneizi (18.78%). Organolepticscores was recorded maximum in Khunezi (8.35) followed by Barhee (8.29) and recorded minimum in Nagal (6.21) followed by Shamran (6.53) and visual appearance was maximum in Khunezi (8.35) followed by Zahidi (8.26) and minimum in Nagal (6.17) followed by Shamran (6.38) at ambient temperature. ','Doka, PLW, Organoleptic Evaluation, Visual Appearance','Among the different varieties of date palm, Khuneizi performed best followed by Barhee and Zahidi at ambient storage condition and recorded least physiological loss in weight, secured maximum scores for overall acceptance, sensory characteristics and visual appearance. ','INTRODUCTION\r\nDate Palm (Phoenix dactylifera L.) commonly known as Khajoor or Kharek belongs to family Arecaceae (Palmaceae) is one of the world’s oldest cultivated fruit trees. Date palm, a monocotyledonous and dioecious species was first domesticated in Mesopotamian Region (Zohary and Hopf 2000). It was believed to be originated from Iraq and considered to be most widely cultivated fruit tree in Middle East and African countries. Major Date palm producing countries in world are Iraq, Saudi Arabia, Iran, Egypt, Pakistan, Morocco and Algeria. Besides these countries- Libya, Tunisia, Sudan, Muscat, Oman, Aden, United States of America and Bahrain also produce dates in substantial quantities. \r\nIn India, date palm was first introduced in Indus valley region around 4th century B.C. by soldiers of Alexander. A large number of seedlings date palm exists in the Kachchh region of Gujarat (Johnson et al., 2013). In Rajasthan, date palm was first introduced by the ruler Ganga Singh ji in the erstwhile Bikaner state. In India, total area under date palm is about 25,000 ha with production of 2,00,000 tonnes (Singh, 2018). In India, date palm is grown in Kachchh region of Gujrat, western Rajasthan and certain parts of Punjab, Haryana and Tamilnadu. Out of the total area under cultivation, majority of area under date palm cultivation is occupied in state of Gujarat which is about 17658 ha with production of 165632 tonnes. Rajasthan occupies total area of about 850 ha and produces 800 tonnes of date fruits. In Rajasthan, date palm is grown in districts of Bikaner, Jaisalmer, Sriganganagar, Hanumangarh, Barmer, Jodhpur, Nagaur, Jalore, Pali, Sirohi and Jhunjhunu (Singh, 2018). \r\nFruits are often eaten as fresh at hard ripe stage or as dried Chhuhara or soft dates referred to as Pind Khajoor. Different processed products like sugar, starch, vinegar, juice, toffees, wine, chutney, jam, pickles etc. can be prepared from date fruits. Fruits of date palm have high calorific value (3150 calories/ kilogram of fresh fruits) and are highly nutritious, contains 60-65% sugar, fair amount of fibres (2.5%), protein (2%), less than 2 per cent fat, minerals up to 2 per cent i.e. iron, potassium, calcium, copper, magnesium, chloride, sulphur and phosphorus etc. (Gopalan et al., 1985). Fruits of date palm fruits are highly perishable in nature, especially at an edible doka stage and have very short shelf life, post harvest losses in date fruits are also very high. Post harvest loss in date palm at edible doka stage accounts about 32-40 per cent, which might go even higher. Urgent need was felt to prevent such losses and ensure proper storability of fruits and envisage such methods which prolong the shelf life of fruits. Temperature is one important factor which greatly influenced the quality and shelf life of date fruits. Temperature low but not as low enough to cause chilling injury are effective for preservation as they slow down the physiological activities resulting in prolonging the shelf life of the fruits (Ismail et al., 2008). In India, limited studies have been done on storage, shelf life and quality of date fruits especially at edible doka stage, therefore urgent need was felt to study storage behaviour, post harvest changes in date fruits. Therefore, research was undertaken with objective to study storage behaviour and quality of fruits of different date palm varieties under different storage temperature to evaluate performance and their suitability for storage.\r\nMATERIAL AND METHODS\r\nFruits of ten varieties of date palmviz., Halawy, Barhee, Khalas, Khuneizi, Khadrawy, Zahidi, Shamran, Medjool, Khasab and Nagal were harvested from Date palm research station, SKRAU, Bikaner when they turned hard, mature, fully ripe, and reach edible edible doka stage in months of June to August. Two replications are taken for each treatment and 500 g fruits were taken from which 100 g were kept separately and used for physiological loss in weight (PLW). The fruits were stored at room temperature in polyethylene film bags of 23×10 cm size. All the dirt, dust and other extrageneous material from the fruits were removed by washing them thoroughly under tap water.\r\nRESULT AND DISCUSSION\r\nPerusal of data presented in Table 1 revealed physiological loss in weight (%) of different varieties of date palm at ambient temperature. Observations were recorded from 3rd to 9th day of storage. Thereafter, no further observations were taken as fruits were found completely rotten after 9th day of storage. Physiological loss in weight increased with advancement of storage period due to loss in moisture as affected by physiological processes like respiration and transpiration. Similar findings of increase in PLW with advancement of storage period was reported in Apple (Kishor et al., 2018), Ber (Tembo et al., 2008), Litchi (Molla et al., 2017) and Strawberry (Rahman et al., 2014).\r\nSignificant variation in per cent physiological loss in weight was observed in different varieties of date palm during storage at ambient temperature. Mean physiological loss in weight (PLW) was recorded maximum in Medjool (18.12%) followed by Nagal (17.80%) and minimum in Khuneizi (13.91%) followed by Barhee (14.47%). At ambient temperature, on 9th day of storage, maximum PLW was recorded in Medjool (19.87%) followed by Nagal (19.22%) and minimum PLW was recorded in Khuneizi (14.81%) followed by Barhee (15.36%). Variation in physiological loss in weight among different cultivars was attributed to genetic, textural and skin characteristics. Similar findings of variation on PLW was reported in Aonla (Singh et al., 2003; Singh et al., 2005 and Kumari et al., 2017), Mango (Hooda et al., 2000) and Strawberry (Rahman et al., 2014). \r\nObservations taken on per cent rotting in fruits in different varieties of date palm during storage at ambient temperature were presented in Table 2. Data revealed that per cent rotting in fruits increased with increasing storage period in all varieties of date palm. Similar results of increase in rotting with increasing period of storage were also reported in literature in Guava (Bishnoi and Sharma 2015), Litchi (Panday and Lal 2014) and Mango (Hooda et al., 2000). \r\nTable 2 revealed per cent rotting in fruits of different date varieties at ambient temperature. Observations were recorded from 3rd to 9th day of storage. Thereafter, no further observations were taken as fruits were found completely rotten on 9th day of storage. Increase in rotting with increasing period of storage were also reported in literature in Aonla (Gangwar et al., 2012), Guava (Bishnoi and Sharma 2015), Litchi (Panday and Lal 2014); Papaya (Shamim et al., 2011); Peach (Gupta and Jawandha 2010); Sapota (Praveena et al., 2013). Different varieties of date palm showed variation in rotting (%) during storage at ambient temperature. Variation in rotting in different varieties of date palm might be due to varietal characteristics. Similar findings were also reported by Date palm (Lal and Dhaka 2003), Mango (Hooda et al., 2000) and Strawberry (Rahman et al., 2014) \r\nMean rotting (%) was found maximum in Khadrawy (32.22%) followed by Nagal (29.47%) and minimum in Zahidi (17.43%) followed by Khuneizi (18.78%). On 9thday of storage, maximum rotting (%) was recorded in Khadrawy (52.00%) followed by Nagal (48.33%) and rotting% was observed minimum in Zahidi (35.38%) followed by Khuneizi (36.36%). Per cent rotting in different varieties of date palm showed significant variation with respect to storage days. Mean Rotting (%) on 3rd day was 10.53% which increased to 42.36% on 9th day of storage at ambient temperature. \r\nOrganoleptic evaluation of different varieties of date palm during storage at ambient temperature were generally based on aroma, flavour, texture and taste of the fruits and decreased with advancement of storage period. This might be due to loss of moisture and rotting resulting in shrinkage of fruits. Similar findings were also recorded in Apple (Kishor et al., 2018) and Date palm (Lal and Dayal 2014; Meena et al., 2017).\r\nTable 3 revealed organoleptic scores of different varieties of date palm at ambient temperature. Organoleptic scores of different varieties of date palm were recorded from 3rd to 9th day of storage, further no observations were taken after 9th day of storage as fruits were found completely rotten at this temperature. Organoleptic scores of different varieties of date palm decreased with advancement of storage period. Mean organoleptic score was recorded maximum in Khunezi (8.35) followed by Barhee (8.29) and recorded minimum in Nagal (6.21) followed by Shamran (6.53). On 3rd day of storage at ambient temperature, organoleptic score was recorded maximum in Khuneizi (8.77) followed by Barhee (8.71) and minimum in Nagal (6.67) followed by Shamran (6.88). On 9th day of storage, similar trend was observed, organoleptic score was observed maximum in Khuneizi (7.94) followed by Barhee (7.88) and minimum in Nagal (5.55) followed by Shamran (6.16). Organoleptic scores of different varieties of date palm showed significant variation with respect to storage days. Mean organoleptic score recorded on 3rd day was 7.76 which decreased to 7.04 on 9th day of storage at ambient temperature. \r\nVisual appearance of doka stage fruits of different varieties of date palm decreased with the advancement of storage period. Fruits showed good value for appearance at initial days of storage which declined with progression of storage days. With advancement of storage period, there is a loss in quality of fruits due to moisture loss, shrinkage and rotting, as a result there is decrease in visual scores with respect to storage days. Similar results were also obtained in Ber (Tembo et al., 2008), date palm (Meena et al., 2017) and Guava (Silip and Hazar 2005).\r\nTable 4 revealed visual appearance of date palm varieties at ambient temperature. Observations were recorded from 3rd day to 9th day of storage, further no observations were taken at ambient temperature as fruits were rotten after 9th day of storage. At ambient temperature, mean scores for visual appearance was found maximum in Khunezi (8.35) followed by Zahidi (8.26) and minimum in Nagal (6.17) followed by Shamran (6.38). On 3rd day of storage, visual appearance was observed maximum in Khuneizi (8.87) followed by Barhee (8.84) and minimum in Nagal (6.66) followed by Shamran (6.84). On 9th day of storage, visual appearance was recorded maximum in Khuneizi (7.91) followed by Zahidi (7.84) and minimum in Nagal (5.57) followed by Shamran (5.94). \r\n \r\nVisual appearance of different varieties of date palm showed significant variation with respect to storage days. Mean visual appearance recorded on 3rd day (7.77) decreased to (6.90) on 9th day of storage. Similar findings for variation in visual scores in different varieties of date palm was reported by Meena et al. (2017); Araiza et al. (2005) in Mango','Komal Kathuria, Susheel Kumar and P.K. Yadav (2022). Evaluation of Performance of Different Varieties of Date palm (Phoenix dactylifera L.) under Ambient Storage Conditions. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 14(3): 1237-1241.'),(5460,'136','Recent Advances of Hormonal properties in Phloroglucinol and Melatonin for Plant Tissue Culture and its Applications: A Review','Shivam Chaudhary, Suhani Sinha, Kapu Pavan Kumar Reddy, Preeti Rani and Vijay Kumar*','211 Recent Advances of Hormonal properties in Phloroglucinol and Melatonin for Vijay Kumar 3023.pdf','',1,'Plant tissue culture is a technique that is used for conserving the genetic material and increasing clonal regeneration of plants which is a tedious process while using standard methods. Moreover, not all plants can be successfully propagated using tissue culture and require novel hormones to achieve in-vitro propagation. However, there are a variety of hormones that are proposed to act as plant master regulators which can induce redifferentiation and can promote more efficient in -vitro growth of plants. Various studies showed certain regenerative hormonal-like properties using phloroglucinol and melatonin. Phloroglucinolis a naturally occurring secondary metabolite found in many plants that have growth-promoting properties such as increased root/shoot formation, somatic embryogenesis, reduces hyper-hydricity (accumulation of water), and improved recovery of cryopreserved plants. Furthermore, melatonin is a pleiotropic molecule known for its multifunctional properties which regulate functions like plant growth and development, including root architecture, leaf senescence, seed germination, fruit ripening, flowering time, and biomass production, and also fights oxidative stresses such as reactive oxygen species and NO to provide tolerance to the plants. This review focuses on the functions of melatonin and phloroglucinol in different aspects of plant tissue culture including growth, regeneration, and regulation in different plants.\r\nKeywords: Somatic embryogenesis, Root formation, Hyper-Hydricity, Cryopreservation, Reactive oxygen species, Leaf senescence, Oxidative stress.\r\n','Somatic embryogenesis, Root formation, Hyper-Hydricity, Cryopreservation, Reactive oxygen species, Leaf senescence, Oxidative stress','Studies showed that phloroglucinol can be used as a cryoprotectant that increases the recovery and survival rate of the cryopreserved plant and can be beneficial for long-term storage of plantlets, synthetic seeds, and explants (Pereira et al., 2021) whereas, the primary role of phyto-melatonin in plants is to provide a barrier and defensive strategies against the oxidative stresses in extreme conditions. The role of melatonin signals in the microbial-root interface can be the emerging field that is yet to be explored and studied along with different metabolic pathways like ion transport, related to the growth and development of plant species, and different nutrient availability for plants. Another aspect that is yet to be covered is, behavior and expression of these hormones for secondary metabolites of the desired plant. At present, there are limited plant species that are used for research purposes in plant tissue culture. There are several different studies in the literature (Table 1, 2) that revealed phloroglucinol and melatonin can be used as growth hormones when added at different concentrations but still their potential as growth regulators is unclear. Furthermore, these compounds have shown (Table 1, 2) the potential of enhancing the roots and shoot elongation, promoting somatic embryogenesis, used as cryoprotectants, stress-tolerant, cellular differentiation, and can be used as growth regulators if added in particular concentrations along with other hormones. The compounds PG and melatonin also open up new avenues in increasing the mass production of different plant species and can also have an edge in improving the genetic stability of genetically modified plants and this can lead to higher chances of survival of different plant species that are genetically modified or unsuccessful to regenerate using tissue culture. However, the pathways and mechanisms followed in plants are yet to be fully explored, this review paper outlines the recent trends and research that are done for phloroglucinol and melatonin in different plant species which will give researchers a better understanding to use them in their future experimental researches.','INTRODUCTION\r\nPlant tissue culture is also referred to as culturing of cells or tissues under sterile conditions to propagate different plant species and conserve their genetic resources on a large scale. However, many plants cannot successfully propagate using standard plant tissue culture techniques and require complex combinations of different media and hormones to improve in-vitro propagation. This will provide better and more efficient growth in plants. Several studies showed the potential of different hormones to achieve successful plant propagation. This compilation of studies illustrated the use of phloroglucinol and melatonin acting as growth-promoting regulators in plants (Table 1 and 2), as an efficient way to enhance the growth of plants under lab conditions. This research will also provide reasonable solutions for certain problems that restrict the current plant sciences research such as promoting secondary metabolite production, genetic conservation, and transformation studies.\r\nSignificance and use of Phloroglucinol in plant tissue culture. The compound Phloroglucinol (PG) has been used as an additional supplement with other plant growth regulators, yet the growth-promoting properties of this hormone in plants is still under. Phloroglucinol also known as 1,3,5-trihydroxy benzene or phloroglucin is a naturally occurring secondary metabolite extensively present in various plant families like Lauraceae, Cannabinacaeae, Rosaceae and some marine plants such as brown alga species (da Silva et al., 2013). In the medicinal and pharmaceutical sector, PG possesses antibacterial, antioxidant, and anti-inflammatory bioactivities including anti-ulcer and cytotoxic effects against tumor cell lines (Abdel et al., 2016; Singh et al., 2009, Singh and Sharma 2020). This compound was isolated from organic waste such as lemon peels and showed bactericidal properties against oral bacteria like Streptococcus mutans, and Porphyromonas gingivalis causing period on it is in the mouth which gives an edge in evaluating PG as an antimicrobial agent and exploring its use for plants. Moreover, various studies in plant tissue culture illustrated hyper-hydricity and poor recovery of cryopreserved tissue that gave negative results (da Silva et al., 2013). Hyper-hydric stress illustrates different biochemical activities showing the oxidative stress and morphological abnormalities in the plant (da Silva et al., 2013). This hyper-hydric or humid environment in plant is linked to low production of enzymes responsible for lignin production. Hence, addition of phloroglucinol in the media can resolve hyper-hydricity by increasing the production of the enzymes and hence, increasing lignin synthesis in plants (Phan and Hegedus, 1986).\r\nPhloroglucinol with other growth hormones like IAA, resulted in 2 times growth of new rootsin the sugarcane plant and later, in the ex-vitro acclimatization phase, results recorded the formation of root hairs and high survival rate percentage (Gómez-Kosky et al., 2021). Various researches have shown the use of PG in propagation of plants with in vitro tissue culturing of J. curcas where PG added with IBA promoted the growth frequency of roots up to 76.7% (Kumar et al., 2010). PG in combination with IBA promoted root induction and with BA enhanced the shoot induction (Petti, 2020). Furthermore, regeneration from nodal plants of W. coagulans Dunal evaluated supplementation of 3.9uM PG with 2.2uM BA and 2.3uM Kn in MS media, which enhanced the propagation of nodal plants within the shoot region. In addition, a two-step method was used with pulse treatment for elongation of roots where 71.6uM choline chloride (CC) and 3.9 uM PG was given. The roots were transferred to the media and showed enhanced roots elongation (Jain et al., 2011).\r\nStudies also show the association of phloroglucinol with other growth hormones to enhance root and shoot induction to multiple folds (Gómez-Kosky et al., 2021; Kumar et al., 2010; Petti, 2020; Jain et al., 2011). The effect of PG on direct rooting of apple rootstocks with different concentrations of PG were evaluated for 0, 0.5, 1.0 and 2 mg•L−1 concentrations respectively. Induction of a low concentration of phloroglucinol in root media resulted in early rooting with an 80% high rooting percentage after the third week of culturing whereas high concentrations of phloroglucinol up to 1 mM induced rooting up to 100% from the second week of culturing (Kim et al., 2020). The broader applications of the use of Phloroglucinol are very limiting and yet to be explored as there are several drawbacks of using a high concentration of PG in the media where higher concentrations up to 2mM resulted in reduced rooting efficiency of 80%. Several studies also illustrated PG as a sterilizing agent in tissue culture media that will sterilize the media without the process of autoclaving (Cardoso and Teixeira da Silva 2012).\r\nSignificance and use of Melatonin in plant tissue culture. Melatonin (N-acetyl-methoxy tryptamine) is a ubiquitous molecule having pleiotropic actions with some multi-functional properties like growth and development in plants including root architecture, leaf senescence, seed germination, fruit ripening, flowering time, and biomass production, and also fights oxidative stresses such as reactive oxygen species and NO to provide tolerance to the plants. Melatonin was first discovered in the bovine pineal gland in the year 1958 and was known for its role as a neurotransmitter in animals (Bose and Howlader 2020). Melatonin contributes to regulating many physiological events such as cardiac rhythms, sleep, body temperature, mood, appetite, immunological systems in animals, and retina physiology in animals (Arnao and Hernández 2015; Tousi et al., 2020). It was until 1995 that melatonin was discovered in higher plants by by Dubbels et al. (1995) and Hattori et al. (1995) and was called Phyto-melatonin (Arnao and Hernández 2015; Liu et al., 2020). This discovery led to the growing study of this hormone in plants and its presence was reported in several variety vegetables, fruits, seeds, cereals, and medicinal herbs (Paredes et al., 2009).\r\nFurther research on melatonin was focused to determine the physiological role in plants and as a result, melatonin was reported as a growth promoter and rooting agent followed by strong shreds of evidence (Zhang et al., 2015). Apart from growth and development processes, melatonin was also seen to participate in biotic and abiotic response regulation in plants (Zhang and Zhang 2021). Melatonin being a plant growth regulator has come forward as a bio stimulant of choice for an eco-friendly and safe method to boost plant resistance against severe stress conditions. This is because the plant’s natural defense system fails to give adequate protection against extreme conditions (Sharma et al., 2020). The amount of phyto-melatonin varies which makes extraction and quantification techniques difficult in different parts of the same plant (Ghosh, 2021). Several studies provided pieces of evidence suggesting that plants just do not synthesize their melatonin but also it can be stored in plant’s certain parts such as fruits, dry seeds, etc. Melatonin is synthesized in intracellular organelles such as mitochondria and chloroplast. Regulation of circadian time management is one common function of melatonin in plants and animals (Reiter et al., 2015). \r\nMelatonin has a very significant influence on improving root regeneration and growth and it has been observed that at low concentrations it promotes root growth whereas at high concentrations it inhibits the root growth (Liu et al., 2022). Exogenous melatonin as a growth stimulator shows a similar role as auxin as they share tryptophan as a precursor (Bhattacharya and Jha 2020). In horticulture, melatonin alleviates damages due to cold stress in many plants, one such example is tea, where melatonin enhanced cold stress tolerance by promoting redox homeostasis and anti-oxidant defenses in plants (Li et al., 2018). \r\nAPPLICATIONSOF PHLOROGLUCINOL IN PLANT TISSUE CULTURE\r\nHyper-Hydricity. In plant tissue culture, a problem arises of accumulation of excess water in which plant roots result in poor development and growth. This phenomenon is termed hyper-hydricity and is linked with reduced production of several enzymes responsible for the synthesis of lignin precursors and their polymerization due to humid environment, high illuminance, and high PGR levels (Kevers et al., 2004). This causes stress conditions in plants which leads to several morphological changes in plants. These conditions develop several abnormalities in the plant such as a reduction in lignin oxidative stress (Rogers and Campbell 2004). The possible solution to this problem can be controlling the PGR levels or light conditions and changing the gelling agents. \r\nDifferent enzymes like CoA ligase resulted in lesser levels and expressions in hyper-hydric tissues and explants. When phloridizin and PG were added to media for Malus domestica and Helianthus resulted in increased activity of lignin synthesis enzymes (Phan and Hegedus 1986). Another study was conducted showing identical results where different plant Achyrocline flaccida was used in which shoots were grown in a liquid medium with phloroglucinol resulted in better and increased lignification and improved xylem development (Ross and Castillo 2010).\r\nGrowth and development of plants using Phloroglucinol. There are several methods of tissue culturing protocols in different studies given in the literature that can be most effective in the micropropagation of plants. This effectiveness of growth and development is given using different combinations of chemicals such as PGRs-illuminance with several abiotic and biotic factors. Furthermore, the most effective way to achieve a considerable growth of plants is chemical manipulation in plant tissue culture, where new and novel chemicals can be used and these can become the alternative for currently used plant growth hormones. Different phenolic compounds reactions with other hormones are already being used in PTC to enhance cellular multiplication, callus formation, formation of adventitious shoots and roots, and promoting the development and proliferation of shoots upto certain folds. The most important reaction to phenolic compounds is mainly with IAA which includes regulation of IAA levels and oxidative catabolism of IAA can be the modification which resulted in the inactivation of auxins (Normanlya et al., 2004). \r\nWhen the phenolic compounds are added externally, they act as alternatives for oxidative enzymes and prevent oxidative catabolism of auxins. The phenolic compounds act as alternates to several and wide range of plant hormones that are normally not used in plant tissue culture as their oxidation can cause several problems like the browning of media and necrosis of cells (Benson, 2000; Reis et al., 2008).\r\nEffects of PG on shoot proliferation. Shoot proliferation is the most important part of plant tissue culture where the development of shoots takes place by elongation of axillary buds. Due to its easy and simple protocol, it is an important development for mass-production of plants. Several studies illustrated the improved proliferation of shoots under lab conditions after induction of phloroglucinol. A study showed different linked interactions of PG and sucrose in shoot tips depending on their genotypes. PG when supplemented in media containing Capsicum annuum showed an increase in bud induction response by 18% (Kumar et al., 2005). \r\nAnother study revealed that the addition of PG for Coccoloba uvifera spp. has no effect on in vitro proliferation of shoots when compared to control, but significantly increased the shoot elongation with the combination of BAP (1.0 mg L-1) and NAA (0.5 mg L-1). The results recorded an increase in shoot length up to 8.2 cm within 4 weeks. The concentration of PG in this study revealed that lower and higher concentrations affected the morphometric traits in comparison to the control (Manokari et al., 2021).\r\nEffects of PG on cryopreservation. The PG when added to media increased the recovery and survival rate of cryopreserved plants named as Dendrobium nobile, Dendrobium protocorms and hybrid seeds, Cattleya walkeriana seeds, Oncidium flexuosum seeds, and Catasetum atratum seeds. (Pereira et al., 2021; Vendrame and Faria 2011; Galdiano et al., 2012, 2017, 2013; Prenzier et al., 2018). Several other researchers reported a reduction in tissue browning by PG in culture media that was tested along with leaf segments of Ficus carica where PG provided an increased rate of morphogenesis with a high survival rate for cryopreserved samples (Kim et al., 2007).\r\nEffects on the initiation of root development. Phloroglucinol acts as a potential hormone that promotes stimulation of callus induction and organogenesis in shoot and micro bulbs region with enhancement of root region. The concentrations can vary from 1-10 mg/L where the rate of induction ranges from 25-37% (Petti, 2020). Phloroglucinol acts as the root promoting hormone along with several other factors like auxin type and concentration, quality of shoots and roots, age, and temperature. Recent literature revealed that PG promoted rooting in different plant species like Jatropha curcas L. (Daud et al., 2013) and apple cultivars (Dobránszki and Silva 2010). The growth of roots was significantly affected by induction of PG in plant media with a concentration of p<0.05 PG in Carica papaya spp (Al-Shara et al., 2020). The development of roots significantly increased up to 5 folds when IAA was induced with PG and auxin oxidative catabolism was decreased from 100% in control to 21% in PG-induced media. There were several hypothetical observations made by the researchers like IAA has a much higher role in inducing roots in explants than PG but PG enhances the activity and expression of IAA (Dobránszki and Silva 2010).\r\nSomatic embryogenesis. From single cells, identical clones with similar genetic makeup can be achieved by the technique named somatic embryogenesis. There are several challenges to somatic embryogenesis such as somatic clones cannot always be obtained using regular plant growth hormones and manipulation of physiological conditions. Hence, the use of PG as potential PGR can induce somatic embryogenesis. When PG added to media it promoted SE development into plantlets and PG helped in increasing the proliferation rate of SE in many cases though some cases illustrated inhibitory effects by inhibiting rooting of Prunus cerasus shoots up to 50% when PG was added at 1.28mM concentration (Snir, 1983). The technique of somatic embryogenesis is the process of producing an embryo using somatic cells. This process of embryo production is explained by Strasburger in 1878 as a form of apomixis, also known as adventitious embryony (Merkle et al., 1995). Somatic embryogenesis is considered a model system to study various events and processes that occur during the growth and development of a plant, and not restricted to limiting factors when observed in variable conditions (Quiroz-Figueroa et al., 2006). The application of PG in somatic embryogenesis of plantshas shown a positive growth result as in the case of Feijoa Sellowiana Berg, the addition of PG and phloridzin gave rise to 3 replicates of 15-20 zygotic embryos in each treatment. The observation showed that the highest number of embryos were obtained at 79µM concentration of PG, and at 197.5µM, nearly 94% of the total explants produced somatic embryos but inhibits the germination of embryos when added in a higher concentration (Reis et al., 2008). In Ornithogalum dubium, 37.5% induction rate was obtained when 4mg/l PG is added to the media showing positive effects in callus induction within a concentration range of 1-4 mg/L (Petti, 2020). The addition of 2.5µM PG gave highest number of globular embryos and influences the change in the physiological process of endogenous cytokinin pool for in vitro development of Tulbaghia simmleri, (Kumari et al., 2018). When PG was used along with nutrient media for the somatic embryogenesis of Lachenalia viridiflora within a concentration range of 2.5-5µM, the highest percentage of embryo germination was obtained in addition to 5µM of PG with full strength MS media (Kumar et al., 2016). The positive influence of PG on the development and growth of somatic embryos in the case of different plant species has been observed and reported (Reis et al., 2008; Kaur et al., 2018).\r\nAPPLICATIONS OF MELATONIN IN PLANT TISSUE CULTURE\r\nMelatonin: Role in stimulating secondary metabolites production:\r\nIn literature, melatonin has been reported to increase the secondary metabolites production in several plant species such as Lepidium sativum, Vitis labrusca, Salvia rosmarinus, and Citrus aurantium. In Lepidium sativum, exogenous melatonin treatment and UV-C radiation were used for the enhanced production of secondary metabolites i.e., polyphenolic compounds. The results revealed that for melatonin at 20 µM concentration among nine quantified compounds, the accumulation of secondary metabolites increased by almost three times (Ullah et al., 2019). In Vitis labrusca, about 27 metabolites were observed which are known to be accumulated because of melatonin treatment. Furthermore, among the total of the present 464 metabolites, exogenous melatonin treatment significantly increased the production of 27 metabolites. The underlying reason lies in the fact that melatonin promotes the synthesis of ethylene which regulates certain metabolic pathways as well as plant hormone signal transduction and in turn regulates the expression of certain genes like VvLAR2, VvDRF, etc. and these genes promote the production of secondary metabolites production. In the grape berry, melatonin significantly changes the outline in terms of secondary metabolites production by encouraging the VvMYB-14 effectuated biosynthesis of ethylene. This VvMYB-14 engages in the MT signaling pathway which is ultimately responsible for the management of the secondary metabolites production (Ma et al., 2021).\r\nExogenous melatonin treatment of 50 µM in Salvia rosmarinus assisted them to overcome arsenic stress by building up their anti-oxidant machinery and their osmoregulation capacity which in turn improved the production of secondary metabolites in the herb. Rosemary is a medicinal plant that secretes essential oils that contain flavonoids which are helpful to treat various brain, blood, and heart-related diseases. On foliar exogenous melatonin treatment of 50µM, the percentage of the essential oil increased by 100% (Farouk et al., 2019). \r\nIn Citrus aurantium, there is a variety of bioactive compounds production such as phenolic compounds, essential oils, and certain flavonoids which are known to have promising antiallergic, cardioprotective and vasodilatory effects. 15µM exogenous melatonin treatment was observed to give 1.5 times higher phenolic and flavonoid content in the plant whereas 1µM exogenous foliar treatment increased the yield of essential oils by 0.46% (Sarrou et al., 2015). In the past decades, the potential use of melatonin has shown extraordinary results in terms of regeneration and secondary metabolites production (Li et al., 2020).\r\nRole of melatonin in cell differentiation. After the meticulous analysis of the data related to this hormone’s influence on photosynthesis, growth to cell differentiation process in a given plant, it is observed that it is a multifunctional hormone that affects various sets of aspects that combine individual benefits for plant growth. The most common problems faced by a plant during cell differentiation are photosynthesis, metal/chemical phytotoxicity, chlorophyll content, etc. \r\nExperiments by Tousi et al. (2020), exogenous pre-treatment of melatonin alleviates cadmium phytotoxicity and improves growth in mallow plants. Cadmium accumulates in different parts of plants like roots, shoots and edible parts which leads to a lowering of the quality of plants by synthesis of Reactive Oxygen Species causing damage to plant membranes and destroying cellular organelles (Farouk et al., 2019). To eliminate this problem, pre-treatments of melatonin are given exogenously reducing the accumulation when concentrations were scrutinized. This was due to the effects of melatonin during cadmium stress made to reduce the translocation factor of cadmium from roots to other parts of the plant. Results show that more cadmium is found in roots than in any other part of the plant. The assumptions by researchers illustrate that this is due to stimulation of carbohydrates metabolism and reduced cadmium-induced oxidative stress. When this hormone is provided exogenously at different concentrations of 15uM, 50uM & 100uM results were varying comparing to the control plant. However, the higher composition of hormones gave negative results by inhibiting the biochemical/physiological activities. 15uM & 50uM concentrations resulted in almost equal with little variation in shoot length, relative water content, and stomatal conductance (Tousi et al., 2020). When ROS and RNS are formed and accumulated in plants it leads to electron leakage, lipid peroxidation, and membrane damage along with nucleic acid and protein damage (Kabiri et al., 2018). NO is another signaling molecule that has several roles in physiological functions so they play a key role in responding to multiple abiotic stresses. The signaling pathway that is mediated directly by NO, melatonin has been observed to be involved in such signaling pathways.\r\nOne study was conducted on pea plants on the parts of the foliate application and seed soaking activity using melatonin hormone. Rather than seed soaking, foliate application of hormone enhanced/regulated the growth biomarkers like root growth, shoot growth, leaf area, and fresh/dry mass of plants (Yusuf et al., 2020). Results showed that this hormone influenced all mentioned biomarkers i.e., giving concentrations of 10µM, and 50µM only 100µM concentration gave better results in length, weight, and height of plant (Zhang et al., 2013). Coming to the chlorophyll content aspect, seeds soaked with melatonin for 100µM resulted to have better chlorophyll and carotenoid contents of pea plants. Along with these, nitrate reductase and carbonic anhydrase which are the most important photosynthetic enzymes are regulated and stimulated by the application of melatonin as foliar spray (Yusuf et al., 2020). This enhances the process and leads to the growth and development of plants without delay. Net photosynthetic rate and stomatal conductance are also raised during analyzation of data collected (Yusuf et al., 2020). \r\nWhen melatonin hormone was applied to soybean seeds by soaking them with a coagulating agent with different concentrations of hormone-like 10µM, 50µM, 100µM, 200µM, it was observed that at the end of the 3rd and the 4th day, seeds are germinated which are treated with 50µM and 100µM concentration of hormone (Wei et al., 2015). Apart from this, it was also noted that the leaf size of plants with melatonin treated is larger than control plants. This entitles the effect of hormone signaling on photosynthesis and growth factor stimulation in plant development. After the fifth week, plants are observed to be taller than controls and a trifoliate leaf is appeared to signify the hormone present in the inputs for plant growth and development (Wei et al., 2015). After analyzing the agronomic traits of soybean, it revealed that the size and number of pods and seeds are more/better than control plants during the field test. The positive results showed that hormone did not affect the aspect of test weight (Wei et al., 2015). Among the above-mentioned concentrations, 200µM of hormone didn’t provide desired results and inhibited some of the mechanisms from occurring.\r\nStress tolerant activity. A plant faces several stresses depending on its physical or physiological or biological deficiencies affecting the growth and developmental phases. Regarding these aspects, there are some experiments and research available playing an evidential role in the usage of melatonin hormone preparing the plant and culture to be tolerant of certain stresses of the plant. \r\nExperiments were done on basil (Ocimum basilicum L.) under salt stress, despite not affecting the root growth and shoot growth, but have shown enhanced results in growth, and antioxidant activity with the exogenous application of 10µM melatonin (Bahcesular et al., 2020). Experiments conducted on cucumber seeds with 100µM of melatonin resulted in a better seed germination rate than control plants (Zhang et al., 2013). Moreover, it was stated that 150µM of NaCl along with 1% melatonin also gave the expected rate of seed germination in cucumber seeds (Zhang et al., 2013). This enhanced the assimilation rate under salt stress water provided to the plants and salinity did not affect the growth and germination activities. The same conditions are repeated with the chilling stress (Posmyk et al., 2008). It was recorded that use of melatonin also resulted in a better germination rate, seedling growth, and vigor index under the cadmium stress (Nabaei and Amooaghaie 2019). Fewer studies showed that cadmium or other metal stresses make the plant weak in assimilation and developmental phases, but in the case of Catharanthus, results were a contrast in nature with no defective qualities roseus (Nabaei and Amooaghaie 2019). \r\nResearchers recently recognized this hormone as a bio-stimulant and plant signaling regulator (Liang et al., 2018) based on the study and research conducted in a few experiments on Catharanthus roseus and Moringa oleifera. Under abiotic stress, this hormone regulates the signaling pathways of proteins to enhance the growth of roots, shoot, and even in flowering stages also in Moringa oleifera (Sadak et al., 2020). Especially, under drought conditions, in cucumber plants, exogenous application of 100µM hormone in plant raised the root-shoot growth ratio along with the enhanced root development later (Zhang et al., 2014). Increased levels of ROS and RNS inside a cell are one of the primary responses to stress. Abiotic stresses make plants perform down-regulation of growth factors and upregulation of suppression factors; this results in plant death gradually. But the use of melatonin hormone between the concentrations of 50µM-100µM boosts the plant growth gene regulation like psa A, F, G, H, and others for photosynthesis. It could also regulate the ATPase activity for plant development. This is possible only when different combinations of NaCl and H2O are collectively presented to plants (Wei et al., 2015).\r\nGrowth regulatory properties of melatonin in higher plants. One study revealed the role of melatonin as a growth promoter in etiolated lupin (Lupinus albus) where it shows growth-promoting effects of hypocotyls at micromolar concentrations and inhibitory effects at higher concentrations. Melatonin is 63% similar to indole-3-acetic acid which makes it an auxin-like hormone (Hernandez-Ruiz et al., 2004). In red cabbage (Brassica oleracea rubrum) and mustard, the concentration-dependent action of melatonin is there ranging from promoting to inhibitory effect (Posmyk et al., 2008; Chen et al., 2009).\r\nAnother effect of melatonin on organogenesis was seen as a histogenesis inducer and later it was confirmed in cucumber (Cucumis sativus) (Zhang et al., 2013). The effect of melatonin in the formation of adventitious roots is considerable where melatonin in combination with auxins such as indole-3-acetic acid (IAA) and indole-3-butyric acid (IBA) shows potential effect on rooting and is a topic of interest (Pacurar et al., 2014). Melatonin treatment altered the levels of abscisic acid (ABA) and gibberellins (GA). In saline conditions, melatonin provoked GA biosynthetic genes (GA20ox and GA30x) in cucumber seedlings. This promoted salt inhibited the germination process due to the high-level activation of GAs as GA4 (Zhang et al., 2014). Melatonin also upregulated ABA catabolism genes (two CYP707 monooxygenases) and down regulated a key enzyme in the biosynthesis of ABA called 9-cis-epoxy carotenoid dioxygenase (NCED). This decreased ABA levels rapidly under salt stress during seed germination (Zhang et al., 2014). A study was done to see the effect of exogenous melatonin treatment on tomatoes to understand the difference in the quality of the fruit, ethylene metabolism, and post-harvest ripening proved that 501M melatonin for 2hrs brings a considerable change in fruit ripening parameters such as ethylene signaling, lycopene levels, fruit softening, flavor, and biosynthesis of enzymes as compared to untreated tomatoes (Sun et al., 2015).\r\n','Shivam Chaudhary, Suhani Sinha, Kapu Pavan Kumar Reddy, Preeti Rani and Vijay Kumar (2022). Recent Advances of Hormonal properties in Phloroglucinol and Melatonin for Plant Tissue Culture and its Applications: A Review. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 14(3): 1242-1251.'),(5461,'136','Combined Effect of Pseudomonas aeruginosa MCCB 0035 with NPK on Growth and Yield Attributes of Cabbage (Brassica oleracea L. var. capitata)','Komal Singh, Ebenezer Jeyakumar, J.P. Singh and Deepak Kumar Jaiswal','212 Combined Effect of Pseudomonas aeruginosa MCCB 0035 with NPK on Growth Komal Singh.pdf','',1,'Cabbage (Brassica oleracea var. capitata L.) is an important nutritious short duration vegetable crop grown worldwide. Its qualitative and quantitative both characters are affected by integrated approaches of beneficial microbes as well as other combinations of NPK fertilizers. The study was conducted at Sam Higginbottom University of Agriculture, Technology and Sciences (SHUATS) Allahabad during year 2018-2019. The objective of this study was to find out the effect of microbial inoculants along with various combinations of fertilizers like Nitrogen, Potassium and Phosphorus. Various methodologies like solubilization assay, qualitative assay, harvest index, vigour index and different growth parameters of cabbage were measured to evaluate the synergistic properties of the fertilizers along with microbial population of Pseudomonas aeruginosa where Pseudomonas aeruginosa MCCB 0035 was found to be effective for phosphate solubilization efficiency (280.00%) followed by zinc solubilization efficiency (183.33%). Subsequently, similar results were also obtained for IAA production with observance of light pink color, Pseudomonas aeruginosa strain MCCB 0035 (population of 8.0 × 10-8 cfu/ml after 35 days). Whereas combination of Pseudomonas aeruginosa strain MCCB 0035 and NPK exhibited a germination percentage of 73.33% and vigor index of 56.66%. Conclusively in this field experiment, it was observed that NPK (full dose) + P. aeruginosa (Carrier based full dose) exhibited highest plant height (30.86cm), maximum number of leaf (23.33), maximum number of unfolded leaf (25.00), highest shoot length (30.00cm), maximum stem length (28.66cm), maximum number of lateral root/plant (60.33), maximum root weight (7.81g), maximum stem weight (22.08), maximum head weight (1583.33g), maximum head diameter (17.80 cm) and maximum harvest index (756.93g) among all the combinations tested. Hence NPK (full dose) + P. aeruginosa (carrier based full dose) can be recommended for the better growth of cabbage under natural field condition.','Pseudomonas, Cabbage, NPK, combined effect','Combined effect of bio priming (Pseudomonas aeruginosa MCCB 0035) and chemical fertilizers (NPK) were evaluated using various methodologies like solubilization assay, qualitative assay, harvest index, vigour index and different growth parameters to measure and evaluate the synergistic properties of the fertilizers along with microbial population that resulted in considerably enhanced yield as well as luxurious plant growth characters of cabbage (Brassica oleracea L. var. capitata) in comparison to sole application of fertilizer or bioagent only. The integrated approach resulted in promotion of phosphate solubilization efficiency, zinc solubilization efficiency, IAA production efficiency whereas in plant growth characters it enhanced germination percentage, vigor index, plant height, number of leaves, number of unfolded leafs, shoot length, stem length, lateral roots, root weight, head weight, head diameter and harvest index.','INTRODUCTION\r\nCabbage (Brassica oleracea L. var. capitata), belonging to family cruciferae is one of the most important cool season leafy vegetable growing all over the world. It is believed to have originated in Western Europe which was the first cole crop to be cultivated. Prior to cultivation and use as food, cabbage was mainly used for medicinal purposes. Cabbage contains a range of essential vitamins, minerals, small amount of protein and carbohydrates. It is an excellent source of Vitamin C (36.6 mg). In addition to containing some vitamins, cabbage supplies minerals like Potassium 170 mg, Calcium 40 mg, Phosphorus 26 mg and Magnesium 12 mg per 100 gram of the diet. In India, it is grown in an area of 4.01million ha producing 9.27 million tons with the productivity of 23.12mt/ha (Anonymous, 2020). Maximum cabbage producing states are West Bengal followed by Orissa, Madhya Pradesh, Bihar, Assam, Gujarat, Chhattisgarh, Haryana Jharkhand, and Uttar Pradesh. Among the various factors involved in cabbage production, nutrients play major role in enhancing the yield with its quality. Experimental evidences showed that cabbage responds positively to nitrogen application and moderately to phosphorus application. Importance of organic and inorganic fertilizer on the productivity and nutritional quality of cabbage has been reported by several researchers. Recently soil management practices have changed dramatically, including an increased use of synthetic fertilizers and pesticides to increase the crop yield. The cultivation of crop requires balanced supply of plant nutrients whereas most of the farmers are applying only chemical fertilizer for fetching maximum yield. Inadequate soil management using only chemical fertilizers has caused a global problem of nutrition depletion in soil and has made the pH of the soil acidic that caused reduction in crop yield (Hungria et al., 2005). As an attribute to the chemical fertilizers, plant growth promoting bacteria (PGPB) were used as first described by Kloepper and Schroth (1978) that can directly or indirectly enhance the plant growth. Direct mechanisms include production of plant hormones such as indole acetic acid (IAA), gibberellins and cytokines (Glick et al., 1999) along with a symbiotic N2 fixation as well as solubilization of phosphates. On the other hand, indirect mechanisms are the production of iron chelators, siderophores, as well as cyanides which act as antagonists to plant pathogens (Glick, 2012). All these traits of PGPB increase seedling emergence, vigor as well as yield (Kloepper et al., 1989). There is an immediate need to replace the use of chemical fertilizers by alternative biological fertilizers. The use of microorganisms with the aim of improving soil fertility by maintaining biogeochemical cycles for nutrition management in the soil is necessary for agriculture. Hence the aim of study is to determine the influence of three different fertilization systems (NPK) on cabbage growth and yield in presence and absence of Pseudomonas aeruginosa for the recommendation of bio fertilizer application in cabbage. \r\nMATERIAL AND METHODS\r\nThe present study was conducted in the Department of Industrial Microbiology (IM), Jacob Institute of Biotechnology and Bioengineering (JIBB), Sam Higginbottom University of Agriculture, Technology and Sciences (SHUATS), Allahabad during 2018-2019.\r\nPhosphate solubilization assay: Sterilized NBRIP medium (National Botanical Research Institute’s phosphate medium pH-7.0) was poured in sterilized petriplates and P. aeruginosa strain was spot inoculated at the center of NBRIP using sterile inoculating loop and incubated at 28±2º C. Further the colony diameter was observed for the visible halo zone around the colony after 2, 4, 6, 8 and 10 days intervals. Phosphate solubilization index and efficiency was calculated by the following formula:\r\n \r\n \r\nZinc solubilization assay: Zinc solubilization was assayed by preparing 100ml Pikovskaya’s agar medium containing 0.1% insoluble zinc compounds viz., ZnO, ZnS and ZnCO3. The sterilized Pikovskaya’s agar media (pH-7.0) was poured in sterilized petriplates and the P. aeruginosa strain was spot inoculated at the center of the medium using sterile inoculating loop. Un-inoculated plate was used as control. Plates were incubated at 28±2ºC for 24, 48 and 72 hours and observed for the diameters of visible clearing zone around the colony as discrossed center (Saravanan et al., 2007).\r\n \r\n \r\nPotassium solubilization assay: The sterilized Aleksandrov media (pH-7.0) having mica powder (insoluble form of potassium) was poured in sterilized petriplates and the P. aeruginosa strain was spot inoculated at the center of the medium using sterile inoculating loop. Plates were incubated at 28±2ºC. Detection of potassium solubilization by culture was based upon the ability of solubilization zone formation (Parmar and Sindhu 2013).\r\n \r\n Qualitative assay for production of IAA: King’s B broth (pH-7.2) was prepared with and without L-Tryptophan (0.5%) and sterilized, further it was grown in 50 ml conical flask containing 25 ml King’s B broth (King et al., 1954) with and without L-Tryptophan (0.5%) solution and incubated at 28±2ºC for 24 hours on a shaker then the culture was centrifuged at 4000 rpm for 20 minutes. One ml of culture supernatant was dropped in a test tube and mixed with 2 ml Salkowski reagent A (2% of 0.5M FeCl3 in 35% perchloric acid) and 4 drop of Orthophosphoric acid. After 25 minutes of incubation, light pink color observation indicated positive reaction for IAA production.\r\nSeed treatment, sowing and measurement of growth attributes: Cabbage seeds (Brassica oleracia L.) were surface sterilized with 95% ethanol for 5 min and washed with sterilized water. Seeds were grown in three replications in a field containing sterilized soil and non-sterilized soil (control). The plots were watered regularly to maintain optimum moisture and other routine care was taken to protect the plants from pests and diseases. Three plants in each treatment were randomly selected and tagged with a label for recording various growth parameters (fresh weight of the head plant height, leaves per plant, root length, number of lateral roots, stem diameter, shoots length and leaf length) at 20, 40, 60, 80 and 100 days after sowing.\r\nVigor index: Seedling vigor index (SVI) was calculated by multiplying the germination percentage and seedling length in centimeter.\r\n\r\n\r\nHarvest index: It is the net head weight to the gross head weight taken at marketable stage.\r\n \r\nRESULTS AND DISCUSSION\r\nThe observations recorded on screening and characterization of test bacteria (Pseudomonas aeruginosa MCCB 0035) for PGPR traits, various growth parameters, yield of cabbage, and influence of combination of NPK with Pseudomonas aeruginosa MCCB 0035 during the experiment. Further the recorded data were analyzed statistically and discussed.\r\nThe P-solubilizing activity was determined by the microbial biochemical ability to produce and release organic acids through their carboxylic group chelates and cations (mainly Ca) bound to phosphate, converting them into the soluble forms. In the current study, it was reaffirmed that the phosphate solubilization by different PSBs was involved with the production of organic acids (Rashid et al., 2004). The inverse relationship observed between the pH and soluble-P concentration which indicated that organic acid production by these PSB strains plays a significant role in the acidification of the medium, facilitating the Phosphate solubilization (Table 1). Similar inverse relationship between pH and soluble phosphate was reported earlier by (Illmer and Schinner 1995). The bacteria Pseudomonas aeruginosa MCCB 0035 was helpful in phosphate solubilization in vitro after a time period of 10 days. Several parameters such as halo zone diameter 01.90cm, colony diameter 0.50cm, Phosphate solubilization index (PSI) of 4.80cm and Phosphate solubilization efficiency (PSE) of 280.00% was observed. These P solubilizing soil bacteria could serve as efficient bio fertilizers for improving the P-nutrition of crop plants. The advantage of using natural soil isolates over the genetically manipulated or the one which has been isolated from a different environmental set up is the easier adaptation and succession when inoculated into the plant rhizosphere. Phosphate solubilizing microbes play important role in improving the growth and yield of a variety of crops through organic phosphorus mineralization (Alori et al., 2017).\r\nPreliminary experiments on Zn solubilization by plate assays revealed effective solubilization of Zn compounds by Glucanoacetobacter diazotrophicus strains and expressed high levels of solubilized Zn existing as free Zn2+ ions as well as Zn chelates (Alloway, 2004). Zinc solubilization was observed having halo zone diameter of 1.70cm, colony diameter 0.60mm, zinc solubilization index (ZSI) 3.83cm, zinc solubilization efficiency (ZSE) 183.33%. Observations revealed that the isolate was found to be positive for zinc solubilization (Table 2).\r\nSeveral researchers have tested the ability of Pseudomonas aeruginosa to produce IAA and consequently, considered as IAA producing rhizobacteria. It also have been studied that IAA biosynthesis is greatly influenced by L-TRP precursor. Addition of L-TRP (an auxin precursor) to the media increased the auxin production by several folds (Frankenberger and Arshad 1995). Here the production of IAA by Pseudomonas aeruginosa MCCB 0035 after a time period of 24 hours, L-tryptophan produced light pink color (positive) and without tryptophan produced light yellow color.\r\nAfter a time period, shelf-life determination of Pseudomonas aeruginosa MCCB 0035 was analyzed. During the entire sampling period, gram negative rod shape bacteria were observed, without any contamination and cfu/ml count. \r\nInfluence of Pseudomonas aeruginosa MCCB 0035 with different doses of NPK revealed the highest germination percentage in the treatments T5- NPK (full dose) + P. aeruginosa MCCB 0035, with 73.33% as compared to T0 treatment 53.33%. Whereas highest vigour index (56.66%) was also noticed in the same treatment T5. Similar results have also been reported by Lucy et al. (2004) during the treatment combinations. \r\nAmong the different treatments, the maximum number of leaves, maximum shoot length of 30.0cm (Table-4) and maximum plant height of 30.86cm was observed in the treatment T5 {NPK (full dose) + P. aeruginosa (carrier based Full dose)}. Treatment T5, recorded 88.17% increase in plant height, compared to control T0 at 100 DAT. The plant height in treatment T5, was found to be significant, when compared with T1, T2, T3, T4, T6, T7, and T8 treatments, respectively (Table 3). The similarity in results has also been earlier reported by Ibukunoluwa Moyin-Jesu (2015). Among all the treatments, highest value (87.28%) of lateral roots per plant of cabbage at harvesting was observed in treatment T5. The least value (18.33cm) of number of lateral roots per plant of cabbage was observed in control having no treatment.\r\nThe highest value of fresh head weight (1583.33g) of cabbage at harvesting was observed in treatment T5. The least value of number of fresh head weight (383.33g) of cabbage was observed in control having no treatment.\r\nDry root weight (g) of cabbage was measured at harvesting where T5- NPK (full dose) + P. aeruginosa MCCB 0035 (Carrier based Full dose) was observed to be the most effective among all other treatments, showing the highest values of dry root weight (9.50g) of cabbage at harvesting. The least value of number of dry root weight (3.92g) of cabbage was observed in control which received no treatments. The dry root weight obtained in T5 treatment was found to be significant, when compared with T1, T2, T3, T4, T6, T7, and T8 treatments, respectively. Dry stem weight of cabbage was measured at harvesting. Treatment T5, (NPK full dose + P. aeruginosa MCCB 0035 Carrier based full dose) was observed to be the most effective among all other treatments, showing the highest values of dry stem weight (22.08g) of cabbage. Krestini et al. (2020) evaluated microbial consortium with NPK fertilizers resulting in maximum yield plant height and plant population. The least value of dry stem weight (7.65g) of cabbage was observed in control which received no treatments. Treatment- T5 recorded 96.30% increase in dry stem weight of cabbage plant as compared to control (T0) at 100 DAT. The dry stem weight of T5 was found to be significant, when compared with treatments T1, T2, T3, T4, T6, T7, and T8 respectively. Baeshen, (2016) reported some plant growth promoting pigments like pyocyanin produced by some strain of Pseudomonas aeruginosa that may significantly increase their height. \r\nHead diameter of cabbage was measured at harvesting. Treatment, T5- NPK (full dose) + P. aeruginosa MCCB 0035 (Carrier based Full dose) was observed to be the most effective among all other treatments, showing the highest values of head diameter (17.80cm) of cabbage at harvesting. The similar findings were also reported by Singh and Pandey (2010) where they found significant cabbage head yield with application of NPK in combination with biofertilizer. The least value of head diameter (9.33cm) of cabbage was observed in control having no treatment.\r\nHarvest index of cabbage was measured after harvesting. Among the different treatments, the harvest index of 756.93% of T5 was found to be significant, when compared with treatments T1, T2, T3, T4, T6, T7, and T8 respectively. The least value of harvest index (368.47%) of cabbage was observed in control. Treatment T5, recorded 48.67% increase in harvest index as compared to control at 100 DAT (Table 6). Verma and Maurya (2013) have also confirmed the finding while using NPK with Pseudomonas fluorescens.\r\nIn the present study it was observed that Pseudomonas aeruginosa MCCB 0035 was found to be positive for phosphate solubilization efficiency (280.00%), zinc solubilization efficiency (183.33%) and positive result for IAA production with observance of light pink color. Strain Pseudomonas aeruginosa MCCB 0035 supported a population of 8.0 × 10-8 cfu/ml after 35 days. This strain Pseudomonas aeruginosa MCCB 0035 and NPK exhibited a germination percentage of 73.33% and vigor index of 56.66%. Similarly Rizvi et al. (2013) reported enhanced root nodulation in Phosphate solubilizing bacteria Pseudomonas fluorescens treatments.\r\nThe performance of microbial consortium copulated with Pseudomonas spp. was always beneficial in respect to yield and soil health (Soumya, 2020). Field experiment with cabbage plants suggested that treatment T5, NPK full dose + P. aeruginosa (carrier based full dose) exhibited highest plant height (30.86cm), maximum number of leaf (23.33), maximum number of unfolded leaf (25.00), maximum shoot length (30.00cm), highest stem length (Table-5) (28.66cm), maximum number of lateral root / plant (60.33), maximum root weight (7.81g), maximum stem weight (22.08), maximum head weight (1583.33g), maximum head diameter (17.80 cm) and maximum harvest index (756.93g). Fitriatin et al. (2021) also studied about combined application of biofertilizers with NPK combination, resulting in enhanced growth and yield of the crop.\r\nIt was concluded that treatment T5 (NPK full dose + P. aeruginosa carrier based full dose) was better than other treatments and this treatments T5 can be recommended for the growth of cabbage under field condition. Verma et al. (2014) and (2017) reported highest nutrient values and highest physicochemical properties as pH, EC, Organic carbon when the plants were treated with Pseudomonas spp.\r\n','Komal Singh, Ebenezer Jeyakumar, J.P. Singh and Deepak Kumar Jaiswal (2022). Combined Effect of Pseudomonas aeruginosa MCCB 0035 with NPK on Growth and Yield Attributes of Cabbage (Brassica oleracea L. var. capitata). Biological Forum – An International Journal, 14(3): 1252-1258.'),(5462,'136','Distribution and characterization of Nitrogen, Phosphorus and Potassium in different depth of soil profile in ITM research farm at Gwalior Madhya Pradesh','Pragya Verma, Paramita Deb, Amit Kumar Nema, Mukesh Sheetpal, Tirunima Patle and Rishikesh Tiwari','213 Distribution and characterization of Nitrogen, Phosphorus and Potassium in different depth of soil profile in ITM research farm Pragya Verma.pdf','',1,'A field carried out at research farm at research Farm of ITM University Gwalior in 2021–2022, to evaluate the distribution and characterization of nitrogen, phosphorous, and potassium in various depths of soil profiles. These soil samples were collected at 0–15, 15–30, and 30-45 cm from different locations of research farms, then analyzed. Results showed that the organic carbon was low. Also, Soil textural analysis revealed that sand particles were dominant over silt and clay in the surface layer of all research farms. The soil texture varied from sandy loam to silt. Based on research the pH of soil was saline to slightly alkaline. It ranged from 7.4-8. Electrical conductivity ranged from 0.21-0.68 dsm-1. Organic carbon content was more in surface layer than in sub-surface layer. It ranged from 0.25-0.53 %. The amount of accessible N was typically in the low range (118.5-149.5 kg ha-1), additionally phosphorus was low (9.9-13.8 kg ha-1). Medium K content was found in surface layer with the range of 218.2-329.4kg ha-1 at all locations whereas at lower depth it value was found to be low. A decreasing pattern of primary macro nutrient was noticed all profile depth, which may be varied due to accrual of organic matter in surface horizon by the high rate of decomposition under hyperthermic temperature regime and climate. Electrical conductivity show highly positive significant correlation with nitrogen. Phosphorus had highly significant positive correlation with potassium. Porosity and Bulk density had highly significant positive correlation with potassium.','Nitrogen, Phosphorus, Potassium, correlation, soil profile, surface layer','At seven research farms of ITM University Gwalior, the most recent distribution and characterization of primary macronutrient in various depths of soil profile have been analysed and collated. According to the results of the examination, the soil at the ITM research farm had extremely low levels of organic carbon, accessible nitrogen, and phosphorus, and its pH was slightly alkaline. It has been demonstrated that soil pH needs to be strictly managed in order to maximize phosphorus availability to plants and prevent phosphorus fixation. N must also be used in particular circumstances according to the requirements. Therefore, a prolonged application of organic manures or the addition of inorganic fertilizers is required to solve the N and organic carbon deficiencies. On the other hand, there are no indications of a potassium deficit in the soil\'s top layer. The current study should be very helpful to horticulturists in creating future research plans.','INTRODUCTION\r\nIndia covers up 328.8 million hectares, or 8% of the total land area in the globe. Of this land, about 51% is cultivated, compared to 11% globally. The present cropping intensity of country has been 142% registered. The current agricultural intensity in the nation is 142%. Furthermore, 65 percent of the total net sown area is contributed by agriculture on rainfed dryland. Due to nutrient shortages and toxicities, the country\'s 25 million ha of acidic soils have poor yield of less than 1 ton/ha. These arable fields might have their output doubled with the right amount of liming and fertilizer application. The soil of northern Madhya Pradesh is severely deficient in nitrogen and crops grown on it show deficiency symptoms in almost all the professions where it is not applied. Currently, 99 percent of soils suffer from nitrogen deficit, and crops cultivated on those soils invariably exhibit deficiencies in nearly all fields where it is not applied a sufficient supply of nitrogen is typically connected with vigorous vegetative development of plants and rich green colour of leaves (Katyal, 2016). Plants need high amount of phosphorus so it is a crucial element. Despite being abundant in soil in both organic and inorganic forms, it is the main nutrient that regulates plant growth. (Tandon, 1987), While potassium is the seventh most widespread element and the fourth most abundant mineral nutrient in the lithosphere (Sparks et al., 1985). On the crop\'s root system, Potassium is necessary for many metabolic processes carried out by living cells, including the breakdown of carbohydrates. When determining the long-term availability of potassium to crops and creating a solid foundation for fertilizer recommendations, understanding the various forms of potassium in soil and their distribution is of utmost importance (Lalitha and Dakshinamoorthy 2014). The district of Gwalior is located in Madhya Pradesh\'s northern region. Typically, the farmers in the region plant wheat, peas, black gramme, green gramme, pearl millet, mustard, peas, and sorghum in the Rabi season. Cereal, cereal-legumes, and cereal-oil seeds are the major cropping systems used by farmers. The present study was planned to determine the distribution of Nitrogen, Phosphorus and Potassium with relationship amongst different soil properties in different depth.\r\nStudy area. The present study has conducted in research farms (sitholi, CRC 1, CRC 2, Turari 1, Turari 2, polyhouse 1, polyhouse 2) of ITM university Gwaior. The climate of Gwalior has subtropical with hot summers from late March to Early July. The humid monsoon season from late June to Early October, and cool dry winter from Early November to late February. Annual rainfall ranges from 700 to 800 mm, most of which fall during last June to the middle of September. In this area winter rains are occasional and uncertain. The city has a humid subtropical climate. \r\nData Collection. The soil samples were collected from 0-15 cm, 15-30 cm and 30-45 cm depths of each pit with auger. Hence, samples were collected from soil of Sitholi, CRC1, CRC 2, TURARI 1 Turari 2 Polyhouse 1 and Polyhouse 2 at ITM research farm Gwalior. The soil samples were air dried in the shade, grinded with mortar and pestle and sieved through a 2 mm sieve. The samples were stored in polythene bags properly labeled for soil analysis.\r\nMATERIAL AND METHOD\r\nMeasurements of selected physical and chemical properties of the soil sample as bulk density, texture, pH, EC, and Organic carbon were carried out by different methods. Moisture was determined by drying weighed quantity of the air-dried soil at 105° in electric oven for 24 hours (Piper, 1950). The pH of the soils was determined in soil water suspension using a glass electrode pH meter as described by Jackson (1967). The electrical conductivity of the soils was determined in soil water extract with the help of an electrical conductivity meter as given by Jackson (1967). The particle size analysis was done by the Bouyoucos hydrometer method as described by Piper (1950). Depth – wise soil samples were collected using a metal core sampler for bulk density analysis (Blake and Hartge 2018). The organic carbon percent of the soils was estimated by wet digestion method of Walkley and Black (1934). Available nitrogen content of individual soil samples was determined by alkaline permanganate method as given by Subbaiah and Asija (1956). Available phosphorus of the soil is determined by Olsen et al. (1954). While, the available potassium content of the soil is determined by Jackson, (1973) using Flame Photometer through Neutral ammonium acetate method.\r\nStatistical analysis. All statistical analysis was performed by OPSTAT software and WASP agri-software. The means of replicates and standard errors of the means were analyzed for selected soil properties under different locations and compared with two-way analysis of variance (ANOVA) test.\r\nRESULT AND DISCUSSION\r\nThe experimental findings pertaining to present investigation entitled “Distribution and characterization of Nitrogen, Phosphorus and Potassium in different depth of soil profile in ITM research farm at Gwalior Madhya Pradesh” are discussed under: The soil profile are studied in different location of research farms (sitholi, CRC 1, CRC 2 Turari 1, Turari 2, Polyhouse 1, polyhouse 2). Mechanical analysis of soil profiles are presented in Table 1. Among the different soil fractions viz., sand, silt and clay, the later two fractions appeared to be the major one in all soil profiles. The textural classes was found to be sandy loam at all three depth. Percentage of sand, silt and clay varied from 56.4% -73.1%, 10%- 20.6% and 14.9% to 24.6% .respectively. The observed data showed that the silt particles decreased significantly with the increase in depth of soil at sitholi, CRC 2, turari 1, poly 1 and turari 2, whereas, it increased with increase in depth at poly 2 and CRC 1 location. While neutral in middile depth at turari 2. Studies given by Sharma et al. (2005); Dar (2009); Najar (2009); Naik (2014) reported that, sand decreased with soil depth while clay increased with soil depth in all the farms. Silt did not follow a regular pattern. These results are also found with the observations of Wani (2001); Wani et al. (2016). The increasing tendency of clay with depth in soil profiles may be due to leaching from upper to lower layer. \r\nBulk density ranged from 1.55-1.48 in sitholi; 1.50-1.55 in CRC 1; 1.49-1.54 in CRC 2; 1.47-1.57 in Turari 1; 1.45 -1.51 in Turari 2; 1.52-1.59 in polyhouse 1; 1.55-1.60 in polyhouse 2. The observed data showed that the bulk density of soil increased significantly with the increase in depth of soil at all locations whereas, it decreased with increase in depth at sitholi location. Porosity ranged from 48.78-41.32 in sitholi; 49.56-43.29 in CRC 1; 49.36-42.87 in CRC 2; 45.40-40.26 in Turari 1; 43.62-37.71 in Turari 2; 49.20-41.98 in polyhose 1; 48.96-42.54 in polyhouse 2. It showed the increase in depth of soil the porosity decreased. The colour of the soil in the different locations at different depths varied from light yellow brown (10YR 5/3) /dark brown (10YR 4/3) to dark yellowish brown (10YR 3/4) (10YR 4/4) while as dark brown (10YR 4/3). The studied profiles could be attributed to presence of CaCO3 or may be due to coagulation of iron or calcium with humus (Dhir, 1967; Gupta, 1992). The various shades like dark brown, very dark brown, yellowish brown colour in surface and subsurface horizons of profiles indicate a good drainage condition of the soils (Mahajan et al., 2007) and may be ascribed to difference in soil organic matter, topographic position and geographical location (Sawhney et al., 2005; Khanday, 2013; Naidu and Sireesha 2013; Wani et al. 2017).\r\nPhysico-chemical properties of the soil profiles are represented in Table 2. The pH values ranged from 8.08-7.81 in sitholi; 7.67-7.58 in CRC 1; 7.58-7.44 in CRC2; 8.27-7.90 in Turari 1; 8.18-7.98 in Turari 2; 8.16-7.60 in polyhouse 1; and 7.63-7.46 in polyhouse 2. The soils were slightly acidic to slightly alkaline in reaction. According to Thangaswamy et al. (2005) the higher pH could be due to increase in accumulation of exchangeable sodium, variation in organic matter and calcium carbonate. The decreased in pH with depth had also been reported by Wani et al. (2017). Similar results were given by Naik (2016). EC ranged from 0.28-0.55 dSm-1 in sitholi; 0.50-0.61 dSm-1 in CRC 1; 0.44-0.56 dSm-1 in CRC 2; 0.36-0.49 dSm-1 in Turari 1; 0.39-0.53 dSm-1 in Turari 2; 0.50-0.70 dSm-1 in polyhouse 1; 0.63-0.76 dSm-1 in polyhouse 2. EC values in the study area are not in safe limits (>0.1 dSm-1) with salinity and alkalinity hazards in the top soil. It showed increasing trend with the increase in the depth of soil. The EC in general showed increasing trend with depth as compared to surface horizons and was found to be in normal range in both horizons of poly 2 and CRC 1. All soil sample were found to be normal (EC< 1.0 dSm-1). The increase of electrical conductivity with depth could be attributed to leaching of bases from surface to sub surface horizons. The results are in agreement with the findings of Najar (2009); Tuba and Kaleem (2016). Organic carbon followed decreasing trend with in all seven locations Its ranged from 0.54-0.25 in sitholi; 0.49-0.30 in CRC 1; 0.50-0.30 in CRC 2; 0.48-0.29 in Turari 1; 0.50-0.31 in Turari 2; 0.56-0.29 in polyhouse 1; 0.45-0.30 in polyhouse 2. Low organic carbon % was observed at the surface layer of the locations. The high content of organic carbon in upper layers as against lower depths might be as a result of incorporation of crop residues and fallen leaves. These findings are in accordance with Sharma et al. (2005); Najar et al. (2009); Wani et al. (2016). Coarse-textured soils are generally low in organic carbon (Yadav and Meena 2009). The low organic carbon% in this type soils may be attributed to the high rate of organic matter decomposition under hyperthermic temperature regime which leads to high oxidation condition, removal of surface soils containing high organic carbon due to erosion which was responsible for the lower organic carbon (Rajeswar et al., 2009).\r\n\r\nAvailable N content varied from 124.74-112.24 kg ha-1 in sitholi; 139.94-125.99 kg ha-1 in CRC 1; 141.70-129.74 kg ha-1 in CRC 2; 142.30-131.02 kg ha-1 in Turari 1; 130.62-117.44 kg ha-1 in Turari 2; 147.60-134.90 kg ha-1 in polyhouse 1; 143.28-131.68 kg ha-1 in polyhouse 2. Low available N was observed in all the locations. The available nitrogen was higher in surface soils which showed a linear decreasing trend with an increase in soil depth in all the seven locations. Similar results were reported by Najar (2002); Dar et al. (2013) and Naidu, Sireesha (2013) and Wani et al. (2017). It is revealed from the results that efficiency of nitrogen is very low due to the fact that nitrogen lost through various mechanisms, like NH3 volatilization, de-nitification, chemical and microbial nitrogen fixation, leaching and run off (Sharma et al., 2008). Available P content varied from 13-11.68 kg ha-1 in sitholi; 12.14-9.64 kg ha-1 in CRC 1; 11.90-10.18 kg ha-1 in CRC 2; 10.96-9.98 kg ha-1 in Turari 1; 10.72-9.62 kg ha-1 in Turari 2; 12.68-1.02 kg ha-1 in polyhouse 1; 12.42-10.66 kg ha-1 in polyhouse 2; The available phosphorus showed a decreasing trend with all three depth, medium amounts were recorded in surface soils. In general the soils of upper layer showed higher levels of available phosphorus content followed by mid and low depths. Similar results about soils of Kashmir were also reported by Wani (2001); Dar et al. (2009). The lower phosphorus content in subsurface soils could also be attributed to the fixation of P by clay-minerals and oxides of iron and aluminium (Thangasamy et al., 2005; Khanday, 2013; Maqbool et al., 2017). Available K content varied from 304.94-240.04 in sitholi; 302.43-288.78 in CRC 1; 317.28-278.54 in CRC 2; 222.26-223.15 in Turari 1; 230.34-210.10 in Turari 2; 291.86-261.44 in polyhouse 1; 283.26-264.22 in polyhouse 2. Available K content decreased with increasing depth, low amount of K was found at surface layer in all seven location. At lower depth low to medium available K was observed. The available potassium showed a decreasing trend with depth, higher amounts were recorded in surface soils. These results are also noticed with those of Najar (2002) and Dar (2009).\r\n Correlation coefficients (r) of soil physico-chemical characteristics in 0-15 cm depth of soil. Perusal of the correlation coefficient (r = values) presented in Table 6, 7 and 8 revealed that electrical conductivity (r =0.582**) show highly positive significant correlation with nitrogen. While silt (r = 0.271) had positive non significant correlation. Phosphorus had highly significant positive correlation with potassium (r = -0.673**), porosity (r = 0.583**) and Bulk density (r = 0.679**). Porosity (r = 0.690**) and Bulk density (r = 0.478**), had highly significant positive correlation with potassium, While pH had highly negative significant negative relationship with available potassium. Sand had negative non-significant correlation with potassium. \r\n','Pragya Verma, Paramita Deb, Amit Kumar Nema, Mukesh Sheetpal, Tirunima Patle and Rishikesh Tiwari (2022). Distribution and characterization of Nitrogen, Phosphorus and Potassium in different depth of soil profile in ITM research farm at Gwalior Madhya Pradesh. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 14(3): 1259-1264.'),(5463,'136','Comparative Study of Starch content in Foxtail, Little, Kodo, Proso, Barnyard and Brown Top Millets processed by Traditional and Modern Grain Processing Methods','Raparthi Akshitha, Janaki Srinath Puskuri, T. Sucharita Devi, V. Ravinder Naik and N. Balakrishna','214 Comparative Study of Starch content in Foxtail, Little, Kodo, Proso, Barnyard Janaki Srinath Puskuri.pdf','',1,'Six minor millets i.e., foxtail, little, kodo, proso, barnyard and brown top millets were processed using both traditional and modern grain processing methods and the starch content was estimated. The starch content of traditional processed minor millets ranged from 43.4±0.20% to 72.2±0.43%. The highest starch content in traditionally processed grains was in proso (72.2±0.43%) followed by foxtail (64.83±0.29%), kodo (60.54±0.28%), little (50.67±0.46%), barnyard (50.47±0.23) and brown top millet (43.44±0.20) respectively with significant difference (p≤0.01) across all the millets. Minor millets grains processed by modern methods had starch content between 45.5±0.46% to 73.4±3.69%. Among the modern processed minor millets, the highest starch was seen in proso (73.4±3.69%) followed by foxtail (66.20±0.25%), kodo (57.23±0.37%), little (52.12±0.23%), barnyard (50.97±0.16%) and brown top millet (45.51±0.46%) respectively with significant difference (p≤0.01) across all the millets. Proso millet has the highest starch content, while brown top millet has lowest starch content among both traditional and modern processing methods. Proso, kodo and foxtail millets have higher range of starch content compared to little, barnyard and brown top millets. It was observed that the starch content varied in minor millets with processing methods although not statistically significant. A trend of the starch content to be slightly high in grains processed by modern method compared to grains processed by traditional method was noticed although not statistically different. It’s important to focus on minor millet specificity as the starch content varies significantly among the foxtail, little, kodo, proso, barnyard and brown top for enhanced therapeutic and health outcomes both by nutritionists and food scientists.','Foxtail millet, Little millet, Kodo millet, Proso millet, Barnyard millet, Brown top millet, Starch, Traditional grain processing and Modern grain processing','The present study shows that there is significant difference in starch content among the six minor millets (foxtail, little, kodo, proso, barnyard, brown top millets). Starch content of each minor millets is significantly different with each other. The starch content of foxtail, kodo and proso millets are in higher range when compared to starch content of little, barnyard and brown top millets. Therefore, while consuming the minor millets it is important to select the minor millets based on physiological conditions and health goal. Also, nutritionists while giving dietary prescriptions, should recommend specific minor millets according to the needs of the individuals to enable effective results. Food technologists also can design foods based on starch content for specific functionality. Furthermore, there are variations in the starch content between the traditional and modern grain processing methods for all millets (foxtail, little, kodo, proso, barnyard, brown top millets). Modern grain processing has resulted in increased starch content in all minor millets although statistically no significant difference was found. ','INTRODUCTION\r\nMillets are small-seeded grasses, annual cereal grasses, which include several distinct botanical species which are cultivated in arid and semi-arid regions of Asia and Africa (Obilana, 2003). The potential of millets is not fully explored as compared to that of other cereals, such as wheat, maize, and rice, which are used most widely (Habiyaremye et al., 2017). In India, minor millets rank sixth in production after wheat, rice, maize, sorghum and bajra as reported by Devi et al. (2014). As per the 4th advance estimates of the Department of Agriculture and Farmers Welfare, 2021 the production of nutri cereals (millets) in India has increased from 137.11 lakh tonnes in 2018-19 to 172.60 lakh tonnes in 2019-20 respectively (DAFW Govt, 2021). Based on the size of grains, millets have been classified as major and minor/small millets (Reddy and Dipti 2020). The major millets include Sorghum (Sorghum bicolor) and Pearl millet (Pennisetum glaucum) while the minor/small millets include Finger millet (Eleusine coracana), Foxtail millet (Setaria italica), Little millet (Panicum sumatrense), Kodo millet (Paspalum scrobiculatum), Proso millet (Panicum sumatrense), Barnyard millet (Echinochioa frumentacea), and Brown top millet (Urochloa ramose) (Chandrasekara and Shahidi 2010). They are also known as nutri-cereals because of their high nutritional value and ability to provide key nutrients that are required for normal functioning of human body. Millets can be staple food sources, due to the presence of vitamins and minerals apart from complex carbohydrates, proteins and fats (Singh et al., 2020). It is necessary to process grains in order to make them edible and digestible (Balasubramanian, 2013). Millets could be processed both by traditional processing method using (stone grinding and hand pounding) and modern processing method using (mechanical dehullers) and further can be consumed as traditional local foods (Nithiyanantham et al., 2019). Starch is one of the primary components of carbohydrate content of human staple diets, so its digestive properties are important. Maltose, oligosaccharides, and higher dextrin are all released into the small intestine lumen as a result of starch breakdown, which is mediated by salivary and pancreatic amylases (Reddy, 2015). It is the most abundant polysaccharide in nature, cost-effective and provides a major source of energy in human food, and is utilized extensively in various food and non-food products (Perin & Murano 2017). Amylose and amylopectin are the primary components of starch, and the amount of amylose determines the cooking quality (Bao, 2019). Most food applications require starch, which is the main constituent of millet grain (Bangar et al., 2021). There has been a significant amount of study on the starches of rice, wheat, maize, sorghum, barley, and oats. However, very little research on small millets has been documented especially to study the impact of processing methods of minor millet grains. With the renewed interest in consumption of minor millets, availability of processed millet grains and in many processed food forms has increased in the market. Since the information of starch content in minor millets processed by traditional grain processing methods is not available, therefore, the present investigation was done to compare the starch content of six minor millets handled by traditional and modern processing methods.\r\nMATERIAL AND METHODS\r\nSix minor millets namely foxtail millet, little millet, kodo millet, proso millet, barnyard millet and brown top millets in the form of whole grains were procured from the Deccan Development Society (DDS), Aswatha traders (Coimbatore) and Orillet traders (Anantapur). They were further processed using traditional methods (stone grinding and hand pounding) and modern methods (mechanical dehulling) using the facility at Millet Processing and Incubation Centre (MPIC) and Deccan Development Society (DDS) an agri based NGO. Further the dehusked and dehulled minor millet grains processed by traditional and modern methods were made into flour using NISA flour mill and analysed for starch content in six minor millets using the method described by (Yang et al., 2018; Gao et al., 2016). Chemicals, glassware and instruments were obtained from Post Graduate and Research Centre (PGRC) and Central Instrumentation Cell (CIC), Professor Jayashankar Telangana State Agricultural University (PJTSAU), Rajendranagar, Hyderabad.\r\nTraditional grain processing of minor millets: Traditional grain processing of six minor millets i.e., foxtail millet, little millet, kodo millet, proso millet, barnyard millet and brown top millet was done based on the method described by Subramanian and Jambunathan (1980) with some modifications as required for the grains. Traditional processing of six minor millet were done with the help of senior farm women from the millet growing areas of Bidekene and Pastapur villages with the support and help from DDS an NGO located at Pastapur village of Zaheerabad region, Sangareddy district, Telangana state.\r\nThe traditional method of processing minor millet grains includes sequence of steps (Fig. 1 and Plate 1) such as threshing, winnowing, mixing with soil, sun drying, cleaning, grinding, pounding and further cleaning. The minor millet grains were cleaned from foreign materials such as dust and straw and then subjected to sun drying (10-12 hrs). Little, kodo and proso were mixed with the mixture of mud and ash and kept for drying, while foxtail, barnyard and brown top were directly sun dried.The traditional indigenous method of grinding was manually done using a stone grinder consisting of two plates (upper and lower plate). The lower plate was immovable, while the upper plate was movable and operated by hand. A leather sheet was soaked in water for half an hour, followed by coating the sheet with mixture of wet mud, ash and allowed to dry moderately. Then the leather sheet was inserted above the lower plate. A handful of grains were poured from the central hole of the upper plate and subjected to a churning process to dehusk the grains. During the churning process the dehusked grains were scattered around the lower plate. The dehusked grains were collected and subjected to winnowing where the grains were thrown from a height to separate the dehulled grain from the husk followed by hand pounding. \r\n Hand Pounding process includes pounding of the dehulled grains in a hand-operated wooden mortar and pestle, where bran from the grains was separated and then subjected to the winnowing process again which segregates the bran from the grains.\r\nModern grain processing of minor millet: Modern grain processing of minor millets was done based on the methods described by Durairaj et al. (2019) with some modifications. Modern processing of minor millet grains includes a sequence of steps i.e., grading, destoning and dehulling is represented in Fig. 2 and Plate 2. Dehulling of the minor millets was done using Rice Mill Walson machinery with a minimum capacity of two kgs to a maximum capacity of ten kgs.\r\nDestoning was the first step in the modern processing of grains where grains were passed through a conveyor belt consisting of grading frames for effective separation of millet grains from dust, straw, stones etc. It operates in a continuous mode powered by electric motor. Then the obtained minor millet grains were poured into the dehulling machinery from the top opening and allowed to dehull the grains. Dehulled grains and husk were collected from separate outlets. Obtained dehulled grains were cleaned using Dhan foundation grading machinery and stored. \r\nStarch isolation (SI). Starch content was determined based on the method described by (Yang et al., 2018; Gao et al., 2016). The traditional and modern processed six minor millet grains were made into flour using NISA flour mill and 50g of sample flours were weighed and suspended in 0.1%(v/v) sulphuric acid (H2SO4) and then left overnight at room temperature. The suspension was transferred into 50ml centrifuge tubes and centrifuged at 3000rpm for 20min using Eltekrefrigerated bench centrifuge and then the supernatant was decanted. The remaining sediment was dissolved in 0.1% sodium hydroxide (NaOH) and then further centrifuged at 3000rpm for 20min to remove impurities. The obtained deposit was washed with distilled water and then centrifuged at 3000rpm for 20min. The above-mentioned steps were repeated until the colour of the supernatant was clear. \r\nThe remaining deposit was then mixed with 20ml of acetone and centrifuged at 3000rpm for 20min. The final starch pellets were dried in a fume hood and weighed. The starch percentage was calculated.\r\nRESULTS AND DISCUSSION\r\nTraditional processed grains. The starch content of traditional and modern processed minor millets is enumerated in Table 1, Fig. 3a. The starch values of traditional processed minor millet grains ranged from 43.4±0.20% to 72.2±0.43%. Proso millet has reported the highest starch content of 72.2±0.43% followed by foxtail millet (64.83±0.29%), kodo millet (60.54±0.28%), little millet (50.67±0.46%), barnyard millet (50.47±0.23) and least in brown top millet (43.44±0.20) with significant difference (p≤0.01) across all the minor millets. Proso millet, kodo millet and foxtail millets have shown higher range of starch content as compared to little millet, barnyard millet and brown top millets. \r\nModern processed grains. Fig. 3b represents the isolated starch values of modern processed grains varied from 45.51±0.46% to 73.41±3.69%. The highest starch content was found in proso millet (73.41±3.69%) followed by foxtail millet (66.20±0.25%), kodo millet (57.23±0.37%), little millet (52.12±0.23%), barnyard millet (50.97±0.16%) and least in brown top millet (45.51±0.46%) with statistically significant difference (p≤0.01) across all the minor millets. Proso millet, kodo millet and foxtail millets have shown higher range of starch content as compared to little millet, barnyard millet and brown top millets (Table 1).\r\nTraditional grain processing v/s Modern grain processing. The starch content values among six minor millets between the processing methods varied slightly and the results revealed that the starch content was reported slightly high among all the modern processed grains when compared to all traditional processed grains. From our results although there was a trend of starch content being less in traditional processed minor millets compared to starch content in minor millets processed by modern methods the results were not statistically significant. Statistically there was no significant difference in starch content values between both the processing methods whereas statistically a significant difference (p≤0.01) was noticed among the minor millet interactions. \r\nA comparative study of starch from decorticated small minor millets done by Kumari (1996) and revealed that the highest starch content was found in foxtail millet (69.40%), followed by kodo millet (67.52%), barnyard millet (65.70%), proso millet (64.80%) and least in little millet (62.50%) respectively. While Singh and Adedji (2017); Annor (2014) have reported the starch content in proso millet was in the range from 54.1% to 93.7% and in finger millet (52.4% to 63.4%), foxtail millet (69.1%), kodo millet (94.18%) and pearl millet (70.4%) respectively. Yanez et al. (1991) studied the physical and chemical properties of proso millet starches and reported that the starch content from different varieties of proso millets were in the range of 61.8% to 68.2% respectively. From the literature we couldn’t get the information on the starch content of minor millets processed by traditional methods. Most of the studies on starch content of minor millets from the literature are grains processed using mechanical dehullers only. Although hour results also show a similar trend in starch content in minor millets as reported in literature there is slight variation. The starch content among the minor millets varies, it can be affected by different factors such as nature of origin, structure, type of processing methods and machinery used (Mahajan, 2021).\r\nWang and Wang (2004) studied the starch content of rice and reported that the starch content of different rice varieties ranged from 62.5% to 86.7% respectively at different reaction times. Moongngaram, (2013) conducted a study on starch content in starchy foods and revealed that the total starch content in different rice varieties varied from 68.57±5.65% to 74.76±2.19% respectively. Hover et al., (1996) examined starch characterization of long grain brown rice and revealed that the starch yield was 64.4% in long grain brown rice and 38.3% in wild rice respectively. Snow and Dea (1981) revealed that the starch content of white rice flour was 77.4%, white rice was 82.2% and brown rice was 77.9% respectively. In the present study the starch content of minor millets i.e., little millet, kodo millet barnyard millet and brown top millets processed by traditional and modern methods have comparatively lower starch content than in different rice varieties, white rice flour, brown rice and long grain brown rice too.\r\nHakim et al. (2012) studied the starch content of twenty wheat genotypes and reported that the starch values ranged from 60.7% to 66.6% with significant difference of (p≤0.05) statistically. Holm et al., (1986) studied the starch content of white wheat flour and whole grain. The highest starch content was found in white wheat flour (80.6% to 81.7%) and whole grain (67.3% to 71.1%) respectively. Verma et al. 2018 studied the starch content of different cereals and reported that the starch content of wheat varied from 60.34% to 66.6%, white wheat flour ranged from 83.6% to 84.1% and in whole wheat grain it ranged from 69.0% to 71.3% respectively. From the results of our work the starch content of foxtail, little, kodo, barnyard and brown top millets processed by traditional and modern methods was lower compared to starch content of whole wheat grain, white wheat flour and wheat starch as reported in the above studies.\r\n \r\n\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\n','Raparthi Akshitha, Janaki Srinath Puskuri, T. Sucharita Devi, V. Ravinder Naik and N. Balakrishna (2022). Comparative Study of Starch content in Foxtail, Little, Kodo, Proso, Barnyard and Brown Top Millets processed by Traditional and Modern Methods. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 14(3): 1265-1270.'),(5464,'136','Comparative growth performance of vegetable amaranth (Amaranthus spp.) genotypes under Northern Dry Zone of Karnataka','Basavaraj Shellikeri*, T.B. Allolli, Lakshmidevamma, T.N., Satish D., Gollagi, S.G., Shashikant Evoor, Prabhudeva Ajjapplavara and Abdul Kareem ','215 Comparative growth performance of vegetable amaranth _Amaranthus spp._ genotypes under Northern Dry Zone of Karnataka Basavaraj Shellikeri.pdf','',1,'Amaranth is a quick growing nutritionally potential leafy vegetable crop with a high yield potential in a short period of time. In many regions of India, it is grown as a traditional leafy vegetable, using local cultivars. Concentrated research towards varietal development is very limited. The systematic assessment of foliage yield and yield attributing traits is necessary for the creation of new varieties. In the present investigation a set of 52 genotypes of vegetable amaranthus were characterized during kharif 2019 for yield and its attributing traits. Further, 35 promising genotypes were forwarded and evaluated across seasons (rabi 2019-20, summer 2020 and kharif 2020) to assess the yield potentiality of the genotypes. \r\nThe genotypes exhibited highly significant variation for herbage yield and yield attributing traits. The variation studied indicated that the genotype KVA-28 (multicut type) was better performing for the traits leaf length (12.19cm), leaf width (8.16cm), leaf area (64.63cm2) and fresh leaf weight plant-1 (11.55g) during the kharif 2019. Similarly, in pooled analysis maximum leaf length was observed in KVA-24 (8.96cm) followed by Konkan Durangi, Renushree and KVA-28; Highest leaf width was counted in a check variety CO-1 (6.56cm); maximum leaf area was recorded in genotype KVA-28 (37.55cm2) followed by KVA-17, CO-1 (Check var). The genotypes viz., CO-1, Nisco Red, Arka Suguna, KVA-34, Arun found to be most promising for leaf: stem ratio during kharif 2019 and pooled analysis. The genotypes viz., CO-1, Arka Suguna, KVA-18, Nisco Red, Pusa Kiran, Pusa Lal Chauli, KVA-34 and KVA-1 found to be the best for herbage yield during kharif (2019 and 2020) and summer (2020) season compared to rabi (2019-20) season. Hence, these genotypes were used as potential sources in breeding programme for multi-trait improvement.\r\n','Genotypes, Vegetable amaranth, Herbage yield and Growth parameters','Thus, while studying the different genotypes of vegetable amaranthus during kharif 2019 and pooled across the seasons, it was concluded that all the characters viz., growth parameters, earliness and yield parameters were varied significantly. Among locally collected genotypes viz., KVA-18, KVA-28 and KVA-34 were performed better for yield and yield attributing traits along with some of the released varieties such as Arka Suguna, CO-1, Pusa Lal Chauli, Pusa Kiran and Nisco Red during kharif (2019 and 2020) and summer (2020) season compared to rabi (2019-20) season. Hence, these genotypes can be utilized as donor parent to improve the yield and yield attributing traits in future crop improvement programme for selection of variety in Northern Dry Zone of Karnataka.','INTRODUCTION \r\nIn India, leafy vegetables play a prominent role in attaining nutritional security of the local and indigenous people. These leafy vegetables have formed an integral part of the culture and tradition of many indigenous communities across the country. Amaranthus (Amaranthus spp.) is one among the popular leafy vegetables commonly known as Chauli (in Hindi), Danteen soppu or Rajgiri soppu (in Kannada) and belongs to the family Amaranthaceae. South East Asia, particularly India (Rai and Yadav 2015) is the probable native place of vegetable type of amaranthus. \r\nIn developing countries, vegetable type of amaranth serves as an alternative source of nutrition as it is a rich and cheap source of protein, calcium, vitamins and dietary fibre (Prakash and Pal 1991; Shukla and Singh 2003 and Garcia et al., 2018). Apart from the immense nutritional significance, it is extremely adaptable to adverse growing conditions, resists heat and drought, has no major disease problem and is among the easiest plants to grow. They can be grown under varying soil and agro-climatic conditions all year round but summer and rainy are main growing seasons. Unlike other leafy vegetables, it is grown during hot summer months when no other green vegetables are available in the market (Singh and Whitehead 1996). Amaranthus is definitely a special crop in terms of crop production, as every aspect of production from planting to harvesting and storage, needs special attention and consideration. The development of the amaranthus in the present context is drastically different from that early of civilizations, or even from today’s primitive agricultural systems. It is one of the most suitable crops for kitchen gardening and can be grown in different crop rotations because it produces high edible matter per unit area and time.\r\nAmaranthus, exhibits wide genetic variability, thus offering a substantial scope to identify suitable genotype for any specific region. Collection, evaluation and characterization of germplasm is the basic requirement to initiate any crop improvement programme (Mandal et al., 2010). This study was conducted to evaluate the performance of vegetable amaranthus genotypes for yield and yield attributing characters during different seasons.\r\nMATERIALS AND METHODS\r\nThe investigation for the evaluation of 52 vegetable amaranth genotypes was carried out at Kittur Rani Channamma College of Horticulture, Arabhavi, Belagavi district (Karnataka) during kharif 2019 to assess the performance for yield and yield attributing traits. Further, 35 promising genotypes were forwarded and evaluated across seasons viz., rabi 2019-20, summer 2020 and kharif 2020. The experimental plots were laid out in RCBD design with two replications. The crop was raised as per the package of practices of University of Horticultural Sciences, Bagalkot (Anon., 2015). The experimental plot was ploughed repeatedly and land was brought to fine tilth. The plot size was 1.8 m × 1.2m. The seed drilling was done between rows about 30cm apart and seeds were sown continuously in the rows. Seedlings were thinned maintaining a spacing of 30cm x 10cm after 15 days of sowing to avoid the damping off disease. Five randomly chosen plants in each replication of each entry were labeled and used for recording the observations. The mean of five plants were considered for analysis using Indostat programme at the Department of Crop improvement and Biotechnology at College of Horticulture, Bengaluru. \r\nRESULTS AND DISCUSSION\r\nThe mean values of genotypes varied greatly for several traits, indicating the higher magnitude of variability. The range in the values reflects the amount of phenotypic variability. Wide range of variability was observed in both kharif 2019 and pooled over different seasons for yield and its related traits. Hence, this indicated ample scope for exploitation of these traits. \r\nSignificant variation was observed for fresh green yield per plant among different vegetable amaranthus genotypes studied. During kharif (2019) and pooled across the seasons, fresh green yield per plant was ranged from 7.18 g -24.63 g and 11.65 g - 22.58 g with an average yield of 13.80 g and 16.34 g respectively. Among all the genotypes, KVA-11 (24.63 g) recorded maximum fresh green yield plant-1 followed by KVA-28 (24.03g) and lowest fresh green yield per plant was recorded in KVA-23 (7.18g) during kharif (2019). However, in pooled analysis genotype KVA-29 (22.58g) had maximum fresh green yield per plant followed by CO-1 (20.36 g) and lowest fresh green yield per plant was recorded in the Pusa Lal Chauli. Variation among amaranth genotypes has also been documented for green yield by Varalakshmi and Pratap (1994); Rani and Veeraragavathatham (2003); Ahammed et al. (2012); Mandal et al. (2013); Sarker et al. (2018).\r\nGenotype Arun (32.56 cm) recorded highest average plant height followed by Konkan Durangi (32.26 cm) and KVA-2 (16.66 cm) recorded lowest average plant height during kharif 2019. Likewise, in pooled analysis the highest plant height (Table 3) was recorded in genotype Konkan Durangi (31.56 cm) followed by KVA-31 (30.96 cm) and KVA-5 (17.52 cm) recorded lowest plant height. These findings were line with Diwan et al. (2017); Tejashwini et al. (2017); Jangde et al. (2018); Sarker et al. (2018); Rashad and Sarkar (2020). The average diameter of the stem varied significantly from one genotype to another during kharif 2019 and pooled across the season. Genotype KVA-18 had the average stem diameter of 8.76 mm which was the highest among all genotypes during kharif (2019) followed by KVA-30 (7.60mm). Similarly, in pooled analysis KVA-1 (7.98 mm) recorded highest stem diameter followed by KVA-18 (7.73 mm). The lowest average stem diameter was recorded in genotype KVA-23 (3.24 mm and 4.78 mm) during kharif (2019) and pooled analysis respectively. The mean stem diameters of 3.00 mm to 4.00 mm and 5.00 mm to 18 mm have been reported by Sarker et al. (2016), Jangde et al. (2018) and Malaghan et al. (2018) respectively which was more or less similar to the obtained results. Significant variation in number of leaves per plant was also recorded among different amaranthus genotypes. In kharif 2019, maximum number of leaves per plant was recorded in genotype KVA-5 (12.10) followed by KVA-7 and KVA-11 (11.60). Similarly, in pooled analysis more number of leaves per plant was recorded in Arka Suguna (13.17) followed by Pusa Lal Chauli (12.39). Earlier reports by Dhangrah et al. (2015); Sarker et al. (2015) and Rashad and Sarkar (2020) have also justified that the leaves per plant ranged from 4.50 to 12.40, 4.30-20.52 and 6.17 -13.65 repsectively which was accoradance with the present reusults. \r\nPetiole length ranged from 1.88 cm to 6.05 cm and 3.61 cm to 6.11 cm with an overall mean of 4.27 cm and 4.54 cm during kharif (2019) and pooled across the seasons respectively. The highest petiole length of 6.05 cm was recorded in check variety CO-1 whereas, genotype KVA-29 (6.11 cm) recorded maximum petiole length followed by KVA-15 (5.71 cm) during pooled analysis. These findings are in close proximity with the results of Jangde et al. (2018) and Sarker et al. (2018). \r\nAmong the genotypes, KVA-28 (multicut type) had maximum leaf length (12.19 cm), leaf width (8.16 cm), leaf area (64.63 cm2) and fresh leaf weight per plant (11.55g) during kharif 2019 (Table 1 and 2) followed by KVA-24, KVA-22, KVA-21 and KVA-5 for leaf length; KVA-19-2, KVA-27, KVA-16-2 and KVA-30 for leaf width; KVA-16-2, KVA-5, KVA-24 and KVA-21 for leaf area; CO-1 (Check var), KVA-11, KVA-24 and KVA-5 for fresh leaf weight plant-1 respectively. These similar findings are corroborated with the results of Oduwaye et al. (2017) and Jangde et al. (2018). In pooled analysis (Table 3 Fig. 1) maximum leaf length was recorded in KVA-24 (8.96cm) followed by Konkan Durangi, Renushree, KVA-28 and KVA-17; Highest leaf width was reported in check variety CO-1 (6.56 cm) followed by KVA-17, KVA-28, Rajgiri Red and Arka Suguna; maximum leaf area was recorded in genotype KVA-28 (37.55cm2) followed by KVA-17, CO-1 (Check var), Renushree and KVA-15. These findings are in close proximity with the results of Oduwaye et al. (2017); Jangde et al. (2018); Table 4, Fig. 2 depicts the superior performance of genotypes for yield parameters where, CO-1 as a check variety (11.45g) exhibited maximum fresh leaf weight plant-1 followed by Renushree, KVA-28, KVA-29, KVA-1, Arka Suguna, Pusa Kiran and KVA-18. \r\nFresh stem weight per plant was noticed to be highest in KVA-11 (11.66 g) followed by KVA-9 (11.12 g) in kharif 2019 analysis.. However, in pooled analysis genotype KVA-9 (12.15 g) showed maximum fresh stem weight per plant followed by KVA-29 (10.86 g). In the same way, high range of variation for leaf and stem fresh weight was also reported by Campbell and Abbott (1982); Rani and Veeraragavathatham (2003); Kumar (2015).\r\nHighest leaf: stem ratio was recorded in KVA-5 (1.83) followed by KVA-7 (1.82), Arun (1.80), CO-1 (1.72), Nisco Red (1.71), Arka Suguna (1.58) and KVA-34 (1.37) during kharif 2019. The genotype CO-1 (2.37) as a check variety exhibited the highest leaf: stem ratio followed by Arka Suguna (2.35), Pusa Kiran (1.97), KVA-34 (1.66), Arun (1.61) and Nisco Red (1.55) in pooled analysis which is in accordance with the findings of Chattopadhyay et al. (2013); Dhangrah et al. (2015); Tejashwini et al. (2017) who expressed similar views on the edible part partitioned into leaf and stem components, which helps to understand the relative contribution of different plant parts (i.e. leaf and stem) towards yield. Leaf: stem ratio is also a good indicator of leafiness of a genotype. High leaf and stem ratio indicated that the leaf portion contributed to the yield more than the stem portion.\r\nThe number of days to first harvest obtained varied significantly and the genotypes KVA-3 and KVA-20 took least number of days (27.00 days) followed by KVA-11 (29.00), whereas, KVA-12 took maximum number of days (43.00 days) followed by Rajgiri Red, Suchino Red and KVA-25 (39.50 days) during kharif 2019 (Table 1). Likewise in pooled analysis (Table 4), Arka Samraksha (29.34 days) took minimum number of days followed by KVA-11 (29.67 days) and KVA-34 taken maximum number of days to first harvest (40.67days) followed by KVA-31 (36.84 days). Generally vegetable amaranthus is harvested at 20 to 30 days after sowing to consume as tender greens. Consumption of plants within 15 to 20 days as well as at the mature stages of 35 to 40 days after sowing is also not uncommon in all seasons. Dhangrah et al. (2015) also reported similar range of marketable maturity in vegetable amaranthus i.e. 23.00 days to 35.30 days; Kader (1978) reported that the optimum stage of harvest in amaranthus could be fixed at 25th day after sowing, as at this stage the performance was found to be superior with enhanced leaf weight, stem weight, leaf length, leaf breadth, stem diameter and plant height; According to Vijayakumar (1980), the optimum stage of harvest in most of the types of amaranthus could be fixed between 25-30 days after sowing to get the highest yield as well as nutritious and palatable greens. Similarly, days to 50 % flowering also varied significantly and a KVA-29 taken more number of days for 50% flowering (74.50 days and 72.33 days respectively) followed by KVA-24 (72.00 days) and KVA-28 (70.50) during kharif (2019) and pooled across the seasons respectively. While the least number of days for 50% flowering was observed in Arka Varna (50.50 days) and Pusa Lal Chauli (51.00 days) during kharif (2019) and pooled across the seasons respectively as seen in Table 1 and 4. These genotypes produced prolonged vegetative growth which could help in higher herbage yield. Hence, selection in these late flowering types of genotypes can be suitable for homestead cultivation to harvest multiple times to provide the nutritional requirement. \r\nThirty five genotypes of vegetable amaranthus (includes both pulling and multicut types) evaluated across the seasons (rabi 2019-20, summer 2020 and kharif 2020) for total herbage yield per hectare. Based on the mean performance (Table 5 and Fig. 3) it is revealed that the maximum total herbage yield per hectare was recorded during summer 2020 followed by kharif 2020 and rabi (2019-20) season. Among all the genotypes, Arka Suguna (25.38 t ha-1, 22.16 t ha-1 respectively) recorded maximum total herbage yield during both summer (2020) and kharif (2020) seasons followed by check variety CO-1 (23.70 t ha-1, 19.89 t ha-1 respectively), KVA-18 (21.98 t ha-1, 19.38 t ha-1 respectively), Nisco Red (21.03 t ha-1, 18.12 t ha-1 respectively), Pusa Lal Chauli (18.43 t ha-1, 11.71 t ha-1 respectively) and Pusa Kiran (17.67 t ha-1, 15.80 t ha-1 respectively). However, minimum total herbage yield was recorded in pulling type of genotype KVA-19-1 (4.45 t ha-1) followed by KVA-24, KVA-20 and KVA-5 during summer (2020); in pulling types viz., KVA-23 (4.04 t ha-1) followed by Suchino Red and KVA-20 in kharif (2020). During rabi (2019-20) check variety (CO-1) exhibited highest total herbage yield (18.21 t ha-1) followed by Arka Suguna (17.03 t ha-1), KVA-34 (15.22 t ha-1) and KVA-18 (14.47 t ha-1). While, lower total herbage yield was obtained in pulling type KVA-21 (3.05 t ha-1) followed by KVA-3 and KVA-24. From the present study it is clearly indicated that both summer (2020) and kharif-(2020) seasons would be the favourable seasons for amaranthus cultivation as the genotypes have showed maximum herbage yield over rabi (2019-20) season. Mbwambo et al. (2015) reported similar results of performance of genotypes during different seasons (Trial-1, Feb-May) and (Trial-2, May-Sept). \r\n','Basavaraj Shellikeri, T.B. Allolli, Lakshmidevamma, T.N., Satish D., Gollagi, S.G., Shashikant Evoor, Prabhudeva Ajjapplavara and Abdul Kareem (2022). Comparative growth performance of vegetable amaranth (Amaranthus spp.) genotypes under Northern Dry Zone of Karnataka. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 14(3): 1271-1279.'),(5465,'136','Profile characteristics of Farmers and their overall Perception about Effectiveness of Agriculture Input Dealers in Telangana State','B. Rajitha, Bharat S. Sontakki, M. Jagan Mohan Reddy and G.E.CH. Vidya Sagar','216 Profile characteristics of Farmers and their overall Perception about Effectiveness of Agri. Input Dealers in Telangana State B. Rajitha.pdf','',1,'There is a shortage of sufficient field level staff and the absence of dissemination of required information about appropriate cropping pattern, inputs, cultivation practices and so on. In this context with their locational advantage and easy access, among all the private extension stakeholders the Agri. Input Dealers efficiently became the most important source of farm information to farmers. As a result, the Indian farmer continues to rely on a variety of stakeholders of agriculture development mainly the Agri. Input Dealersthan ever before. The Agri. Input Dealer has no specificity for qualification to get license from the government and in some cases have low knowledge about doses of pesticides and their method of application.In spite of having some limitations, as the Agri. Input Dealer are already part of value chain system they can’t be eliminated So, mainstreaming by legal format is to be done and training has to be provided to get better knowledge and skills to act as an extension service provider by competent institutes.This paper focused to study the profile characteristics of Farmers and their overall perception about effectiveness of Agri. Input Dealers. Ex-post facto research design was adopted for the study with a sample of 90 respondents covering 3 districts of Telangana. From the analysis, it was found that majority of respondents fall under medium profile characteristics.','Farmers, Profile Characteristics, overall perception, effectiveness of Agri. Input Dealers','The findings of the study revealed that majority of farmers were medium in their profile characteristics and have perception of medium effectiveness on Agri. Input Dealers. Hence the planners and development agencies need to give attention on effectiveness of Agri. Input Dealers by planning training programmes for increasing their effectiveness.','INTRODUCTION\r\nThe ratio of Extension workers to Farmers is low at 1:1162 at national level as against recommended ratio of 1:750. In the past 20 years, extension has changed from technology-focused, public services-dominated, transfer of technology approaches to a much broader scope with many different actors from the private and civil society sectors (Sulaiman and Davis 2012). Many new service providers and institutional arrangements in agricultural extension have emerged over the last two decades. These include private extension agencies, input agencies, agri-business firms, farmers’ organisations, producer cooperatives, financial agencies involved in rural credit delivery, and consultancy services (Sulaiman and Davis 2012).\r\nDifferent roles of Agri. Input Dealer(s) in providing Extension and advisory services:\r\n•Delivering and checking relevant and timely Extension and Agro advisory services to the farmers \r\n•Report to the company agents/agriculture officer any serious pest and disease problems and natural calamities prevailing in his area and also unusual/inappropriate agro-advisory services\r\n•Visiting the farmers field on fixed day \r\n•To observe field operations, conditions of crops \r\n•To enquire the problems and suggest appropriate measures \r\n•To make a note to what extent recommendations of agro-advisory services have been adopted and reasons for non-adoption \r\n•To detect the incidence of pests, diseases and natural disorders Provide credit based agro-advisory services to the farmers\r\n•Report to the department of agriculture special achievements of farmers by using agro advisory services\r\n•Evaluate the agro-advisory services feasibility in field conditions\r\n•Ensuring quality, low cost agro-advisory services to the farmers\r\n•Works out how to convince farmers to adopt the recommendations on agro advisory services made during the training sessions\r\n•Motivating the farmers to adopt new and additional recommended agro advisory services\r\n•Conduct demonstrations/campaign/seminars on productive technologies related to different crops to farmers\r\n•Arranging for company agents to visit the field in order to get solution when he is unable to get satisfactory solution during field visits/training programs\r\n•Hold the meeting with the farmers interest groups and rural institutions to discuss location specific problems of farmers\r\nMATERIALS AND METHODS\r\nTelangana state was chosen for the study. The present study was undertaken in Khammam, Karimnagar, Rangareddy districts (1 district for each zone) covering all the 3 zones of Telangana state. All these 3 districts were randomly selected from the state of Telangana.\r\nA total number of 90 farmers (30 from each district, six each from the five Agri. Input Dealer(s) with three years of interaction) were selected randomly.\r\nData were collected from the respondents by using a pre-tested interview schedule and analysed using Statistical Package for Social Sciences (SPSS 20). \r\n\r\nRESULTS AND DISCUSSION\r\nAge. The data in Table 1 revealed that majority of the farmers 82.22 per cent belonged to middle age group (35 to 55 years) in the sample area. While, 12.22 per cent belonged to the young age group (upto 35 years) and very less 5.56 per cent belonged to old age group (above 55 years). From the above findings it can be concluded that the majority of the farmers belonged to middle age group.\r\nEducation. From the Table 1 it was evident that majority of the farmers had medium level of education (81.11%) followed by high (10.00%) and low (8.89%).\r\nFrom the Table 1 it was evident that nearly half of the farmers (46.8 percent) studied upto PUC followed by high school (21.1%), graduates (13.3%), agricultural graduates (10%), no school education (4.4%), primary school (4.4%). None of the respondents reported for middle school (5-7) and any others (Technical course).The probable reason for this might be due to the availability of formal schooling and college facilities in the study area. These results were similar to the findings of Saravanan (1999); Parouha (2014).\r\nFamily details. It is operationalized as the family type, family size, Number of dependents of the farmer. \r\nFrom the Table 2 it was evident that majority of the farmers belonged to nuclear families (86.67%) followed by joint families (13.33%). The results were similar to the findings of Rout (2004); Kumari (2012).\r\nFrom the Table 2 it was evident that majority of farmers come under medium family group (82.22%) followed by large (11.11%) and small (6.67%)\r\nFrom the Table 2 it was evident that the number of dependents in the family of farmer fall under medium category (77.78%) followed by high (14.44%) and low (7.8%). From the Table 1 it was evident that majority of farmers fall under medium family profile category (73.33%), followed by high (16.67%) and low (10%).\r\nFarm size. From the Table 1 it was evident that 61.11 percent farmers had medium land holdings, followed by 23.33 percent semi-medium,11.11 percent large,2.2 percent small and marginal land holdings. The medium farm size enabled the farmers in the area to avail better services from AIDs.\r\nFarming experience. From the Table 1 it was evident that majority of farmers fall under medium level of experience group (60%) followed by high (21.11%) and low (18.89%). The probable reason might be that farming is their primary occupation from years. The result was in agreement with the Kumari (2012). \r\nFrom the Table 3 it was evident that in kharif season 10 percent farmers grown paddy, 16.67 percent farmers grown Paddy and Chilli, 15.55 percent farmers grown Chilli and Cotton, 16.67 percent farmers grown Paddy and Cotton, 8.89 percent farmers grown Paddy and vegetables, 11.11 percent farmers grown Sugar cane, 11.11 percent farmers grown Paddy, Chilli and Cotton, 5.55 percent farmers grown Chilli, cotton and sugarcane, 4.44 percent farmers grown vegetables.\r\nIn rabi season 38.89 percent farmers grown maize, 16.67 percent farmers grown ground nut, 40.00 percent farmers grown maize and ground nut, 4.44 percent farmers grown vegetables. In addition to these perennial fruit trees like mango was cultivated by some farmers. The probable reason might be that the climactic conditions are favourable to grow the particular crops.\r\nAnnual income. From the Table 1 it was evident that 85.56 percent farmers had medium annual income, followed by high (12.22 %) and low (2.2%). The possible reason might be due to their capacity to take risk of accepting the recommended practices and services offered by AIDs. The result was in agreement with the Parouha (2014)\r\nSocio-political participation. From the Table 1 it was evident that majority of farmers fall under low degree of socio-political participation (42.2%) and medium (28.9%) and high (28.9%). The probable reason for the kind of result might be that socio-political participation is considered as prestigious. The findings were similar to Vinayak Nayak (2014).\r\nDegree of contacts with Agri. Input Dealers. From the Table 1 it was evident that majority of farmers fall under medium degree of contacts with Agri. Input Dealers (62.22%) followed by low (23.3%) and high (14.45%). The probable reason for the kind of result might be that getting agricultural information and inputs from AIDs is very easy.\r\nInformation seeking behaviour\r\nFrom the Table 4 it was evident that 75.56 percent farmers had medium Information seeking behaviour from Informal sources followed by high (14.44 percent) and low (10 percent).\r\nFrom the Table 4 it was evident that 74.44 percent farmers had medium Information seeking behaviour from formal sources followed by high (14.44 percent) and low (11.11 percent).\r\nFrom the Table 4 it was evident that 66.67 percent farmers had medium Information seeking behaviour from mass media followed by low (20 percent) and high(13.33 percent).\r\nFrom the Table 1 it was evident that 75.56 percent farmers had medium Information seeking behaviour followed by high (14.44 percent) and low (10 percent). The results were partially in consistent with Androulidakis et al. (2002).\r\nCredibility on Agri. Input Dealer(s). From the table 1 it was evident that 73.33 percent farmers had medium credibility on AIDs, followed by 15.56 percent had high and 11.11 percent had low credibility on AIDs. The probable reason might be because farmers avail services from AIDs from years and are in touch with them more frequently. The results were in consistent with Singh and Narain (2008a).\r\nInput acquisition behaviour. From the Table 1 it was evident that 82.22 percent farmers had medium Input acquisition behaviour, followed by 17.80 percent had low and 0.00 percent had high Input acquisition behaviour. The criteria for going to AIDs was because they were the prime source of farm information to farmers. The findings were similar to Androulidakis et al. (2002); Singh and Narain (2008a).\r\nCosmopoliteness. From the Table 1 it was evident that 68.89 percent had medium cosmopoliteness followed by 30 percent high and 1.11 percent had low cosmopoliteness. The results were partially in consistent with Shashidhar (2004).\r\nRisk management behaviour. From the Table 1 it was evident that 75.56 percent had medium risk management behaviour followed by 15.55 percent high and 8.89 percent had low risk management behaviour. The probable reason may be the higher education, enough farming experience and annual income of respondents. The findings were similar to Vedamurthy (2002).\r\nFrom the Table 5 it was evident that 67.78 percent AIDs fall under medium effectiveness category, 16.67 percent fall under less effectiveness category, 15.55 percent fall under high effectiveness category. The result was similar to the findings of Borah (2019).\r\n \r\n','B. Rajitha, Bharat S. Sontakki, M. Jagan Mohan Reddy and G.E.CH. Vidya Sagar (2022). Profile characteristics of Farmers and their overall Perception about Effectiveness of Agriculture Input Dealers in Telangana State. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 14(3): 1280-1285.'),(5466,'136','Correlation between Foraging activity and Bee Strength in Apis mellifera ligustica Colonies in Mid Hills of Himachal Pradesh','Simran Bhatia, Kiran Rana*, Meena Thakur, Monika, Sawraj Jit Singh, Sapna Devi, Ojas Chauhan\r\nand Veenu Janjhua\r\n','217 Correlation between Foraging Activity and Bee Strength in Apis mellifera ligustica Colonies in Mid Hills of Himachal Pradesh Simran Bhatia.pdf','',1,'The effects of different hive volume having varied bee strength on foraging activity of Apis mellifera were evaluated in the mid hills of Himachal Pradesh, India. There were five treatments viz., Modified BIS type A hive (20 L), 5 frame hive (25 L), 6 frame hive (30 L), 8 frame hive (33 L) and Langstroth hive (42 L). The bee strength showed a positive correlation with bee activity (r=0.70, 0.72, 0.92, 0.79, 0.54). Mean outgoing bees (423.25 bees/5 min), incoming pollen foragers (161.42 bees/5 min) and nectar foragers (489.79 bees/5min) in different experimental hives were found maximum in 8-frame hive of low volume in the month of June and April at 1000-1200 hours at 1200-1400 hours which were statistically similar in standard Langstroth hive. Correlation worked out for the foraging activity with parameters showed a positive significant correlation with the external, internal hive temperature and relative humidity whereas a negative correlation with external relative humidity. This preliminary study showed that hive volume influenced the foraging activity and bee strength of Apis mellifera and thus resulted in high population of honeybees. To improve beekeeping in Himachal Pradesh in terms of factors like bee strength and foraging activity more research in this field is required.','Apis mellifera, Colony strength, Pollen, Honey production, Foraging activity, Langstroth hive','As, it is evident from studies that bee strength and bee activity of A. mellifera colonies were significantly affected by hive volume or hive size. The bee strength showed a positive correlation with bee activity. Mean outgoing bees, incoming pollen foragers and nectar foragers in different experimental hives were found maximum in 8-frame hive of 33 L. Based on performance of colonies in different hive volumes it can be concluded that 8-frame hive is found to be optimum for keeping A. mellifera in mid-hills of Himachal Pradesh. It can contribute to enhance the honey production and ultimately the farmer’s income in Himachal Pradesh.','INTRODUCTION \r\nThe nest size, volume and space for a honey bee colony play a significant role in determining the comb construction and subsequent survival and colony productivity (Hepburn et al., 2014). Honey bees use nest cavity volume, or the size of the bee hive i.e., bee population as one of the factors in choosing where to build their nests naturally (Villa, 2004). Honey bees raise agricultural yields by pollinating them, which ultimately boosts farm revenues (Goyal et al., 1989). The strength of a honey bee colony is very important for the productivity of honey bees (Jevtic et al., 2009). Bee foraging impacts the performance of a colony, whereas the productivity of bee hives depends on the foraging activity. The foraging habits of the bee colony determine how much pollination and honey is produced. The strength of the colony, including the number of workers, the availability of brood, pollen, and honey storage, has an impact on the foraging behavior. During the fall and winter, bee colonies kept in 8 frame hives develop bigger than those managed in 10 frame hives (Rinderer et al., 2010). Brood rearing depends upon the availability of pollen and nectar, as also on climate factors predominant in the locality. It is necessary to evaluate how the internal space of the hives or hive volume affects the population maintenance and determine the effect of the hive volume on bees. The colony strength influences the foraging pattern of bees. The state of Himachal Pradesh constitutes of most important bee-keeping zones in India. It bids great capabilities of beekeeping owing to its rich bee flora and is important beekeeping areas of India. \r\nMATERIALS AND METHODS\r\nThe investigations were conducted in apiary at Department of Entomology, Dr. YSP University of Horticulture and Forestry, Nauni, Solan, Himachal Pradesh, India located at 33°51.607latitude, 077°09.95E longitude and altitude 1262 m amsl from July 2020 to June 2021 in stationary conditions and in months December to February in migratory conditions. There were 5 treatments (Table 1) used viz., 5 frame hive of 25 L, 6 frame hive of 30 L, 8 frame hive of 33 L, Langstroth hive of 42 L and Modified BIS A type hive of 20 L (Fig. 1). Modified BIS type A hive used for A. cerana F. was provided with modified bee frames of A. mellifera. At the start of the experiment all the colonies have 3 frame bee strength. All the colonies were equalized relating to sealed and unsealed brood area, honey and pollen quantities. To estimate the total number of arriving pollinators carrying pollen loads and nectar, bee activity at the hive entrance was monitored. The number of outgoing and incoming bees (pollen and nectar foragers) at hive entrance were counted for 5 minutes. The bee activity was recorded at 1 week interval at 1000h, 1200h and 1400h with three replications of each experiment hive with the help of stopwatch. Number of bees per 5 minutes going out of hive and incoming pollen and nectar foragers at 1000h, 1200h and 1400h for foraging were recorded at weekly intervals by counting the number of bees with the help of stopwatch. Incoming bees such as resin and water collectors were considered as nectar foragers. Temperature and humidity inside the hive was recorded with the help of thermo-hygrometer. External weather temperature, rainfall and humidity was procured from Department of Environmental Science, UHF Nauni, Solan and Department of Agricultural Meterology, Chaudhary Charan Singh Haryana Agricultural University Hisar, Haryana for stationary and migratory colonies, respectively.\r\nStatistical analysis. The data was subjected to square root transformation as per need of the experiment and with the help of method described by Gomez and Gomez (1986) data was statistically analyzed by three factor analysis of variance (ANOVA) in Completely Randomized Design. The treatment effects were tested at 5 per cent level of significance.\r\nRESULTS AND DISCUSSIONS\r\nThe foraging activity of Apis mellifera ligustica presented in Table 3, 4 and 5 reveals that foraging activity varied according to its colony strength (Table 2) in each hive volume. The incoming and outgoing bees (Fig. 2) at any point of time were not in equilibrium. Apis mellifera colonies showed a distinct foraging activity as the outgoing and incoming bees were maximum during 1000-1200 and 1200-1400 hours in all treatments. The pollen gathering activity was, however, variable in colonies having variable strength. Mean outgoing bees(423.25 bees/5 min), incoming pollen (161.42 bees/5 min) and nectar (489.79 bees/5min) foragers in experimental hives were found maximum in 8-frame hive in the month of June and April at 1000-1200 hours at 1200-1400 hours which was statistically at par with the mean number of pollen foragers in Langstroth hive (160.73 bees/5min) in May during 1000-1200 hours followed by average nectar foragers in Langstroth hive at 1200-1400 hrs (429.92 bees/5min), 1400-1600 hrs (403.42 bees/5min) and 1000-1200 hrs (398.58 bees/5min), 5-frame hive at 1400-1600 hrs (391.75 bees/5min) and in 6-frame hive at 1400-1600 hrs (390.42 bees/5min). \r\nSignificant increase in pollen and nectar foragers is related with the greater availability of pollen and nectar which is mainly due to the flowering of plant species yielding both pollen and nectar in the locality. Honeybees rely on flowering plants as a supply of nectar and pollen, and in exchange, provide pollination, which helps the area\'s plant species flourish. The bee strength (Table 6) showed a positive (significant) correlation with bee activity in all the treatments viz. 5-frame, 6-frame, 8-frame, Langstroth (r=0.70, 0.72, 0.92, 0.79) and modified BIS type A hive positive but non-significant (r=0.54). The current findings concur with those of Abou-Shaara et al. (2013) who reported a strong positive correlation (r=70) between foraging activity and bee populations. \r\nCorrelation between bee activity and weather parameters in hives with different volumes (Table 7) revealed that bee activity was significantly maximum in 8-frame hive (385.17 bees/5min) in the month of June when external weather parameters were 24.15°C Temperature, 61% Relative humidity and 99.50 mm Rainfall and internal hive weather parameters were 33.63°C Temperature and 61.71% Relative humidity whereas significantly minimum bee activity was recorded in BIS Type A hive (57.75 bees/5min) in the month of August when external weather parameters were 24.95°C Temperature, 64% Relative humidity and 148.60 mm Rainfall and internal hive weather parameters were 33.05°C Temperature and 55.96% Relative humidity.\r\nThe current study indicated that the number of outgoing bees, incoming pollen foragers as well as incoming nectar foragers has been found maximum in 8-frame hive with 33 L volume (Fig. 3) as compared to Langstroth hive of 42 L volume during the study period from July 2020 to June 2021. However, data was statistically similar in Langstroth hive as well. Free (1967) also reported that the number of active foragers and their foraging activities are influenced by the colony performance, including bee strength, brood area, honey, and pollen reserves. According to Barker (1971), foraging behavior is influenced by the pollen and honey reserves in the hive, and bee activity during flight is almost proportionate to colony strength (Farrar, 1937). The current research is in agreement with studies by Erickson et al. (1975), who found that flight activity was 1.5 and 2 times higher in more populated overwintered colonies as compared to colonies with low strength and low total foraging indices. They also noted that low temperature restricts flight activity more in a disposable pollination unit that is less populated than in more populated overwintered colonies. Individual pollen foragers from high brood colonies tend to acquire larger loads than those from low brood colonies, and individual nectar foragers from large colonies tend to work harder than those from small colonies, according to Eckert et al. (1994). Rueppell et al. (2009) concluded that workers in large hives exhibit higher foraging rates than workers in the small hives. Bee hive type also has an impact on the foraging activity of honey bees (Abou-Shaara et al. 2013). Bees\' foraging behaviour for nectar or pollen was significantly influenced by their high and low pollen-hoarding behaviours (Pankiw et al. 2002). In addition to this, having access to suitable plant resources has a significant influence on foraging behaviour. Foragers of nectar and pollen prefer some resources over others. Chaand et al. (2017) also observed that the influence of food reserves resulted in the increase of pollen reserves of the colonies the nectar foraging of the colonies increased, and pollen foraging decreased significantly and reported pollen gathering activity was variable in colonies having variable colony strength i.e., the nectar collectors in 6 (10.56+0.01), 8 (12.23+0.01) and 10 (13.41+0.02) bee frame colonies were maximum between 1200-1400 hours.\r\n','Simran Bhatia, Kiran Rana, Meena Thakur, Monika, Sawraj Jit Singh, Sapna Devi, Ojas Chauhan and Veenu Janjhua (2022). Correlation between Foraging Activity and Bee Strength in Apis mellifera ligustica Colonies in Mid Hills of Himachal Pradesh. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 14(3): 1286-1294.'),(5467,'136','Classification and Evaluation of Epicuticular wax in Wheat (Triticum aestivum L.) for Heat stress Screening','Vinay Prakash Bagde, R.S. Shukla, Suneeta Pandey and Vikas Verma','218 Classification and Evaluation of Epicuticular wax in Wheat _Triticum aestivum L._ for Heat stress Screening Vinay Prakash Bagde.pdf','',1,'Global temperatures have increased since the dawn of the century and are predicted to continue rising under climate change. This increases in temperature can cause heat stress: a severe threat to wheat production globally. In this research we describe a particular morphological response of wheat to elevated temperature. This experimental research was carried out to determine the response of different wheat genotypes (Triticum aestivum L.) on epicuticular wax under timely and late sown condition. The research was conducted at Seed Breeding Farm, AICRP on Wheat & Barley. Department of Plant Breeding & Genetics, JNKVV (M.P.) during Rabi season in year 2021-22, in randomized complete block design with two replications. Result of morphological traits revealed that tolerant genotypes had higher epicuticular wax under late sown condition. Genotypes JW 3336, JW 3288,DBW 71, RAJ 3765 and WH 730show maximum glaucousness and increase tendency of epicuticular wax synthesis from normal to late sown environmental condition. This study explains the inter-relationship between epicuticular wax improving wheat adaptability to high temperature stress. ','Triticum aestivum L., Epicuticular wax, Heat stress','Wheat breeding strategies to develop stress-tolerant varieties are based on the development of a population with ensuing selection within the population. Past decade has seen new evolution in methods specific for yield selection, incorporating morphology into the yield selection criteria. Epicuticular wax offers safeguards against both abiotic & biotic stresses to plants. EW tempers the leaf microenvironment to heat stress, indicated by the positive beneficial relationship between leaf temperature depression and epicuticular wax. This reduction is probably result of increase reflectance at the leaf surface. The results specify that heat tolerant cultivars can productively use epicuticular wax as one of the physiological components. This unique morphological trait could makes the identification easy between heat susceptible and resistant genotypes. ','INTRODUCTION\r\nWheat, the second most important staple food consumed by almost 35% of the world population and providing 20% of the total food calories. It occupies nearly about 32% of the total acreage under cereals crops in the world. Wheat belongs to the genus Triticum of the family poaceae and it is believed to be originated from South West Asia (Bingham and Lupton, 1987).There are three well known species of wheat namely, Triticum aestivum (Bread), Triticum durum (Macaroni) and Triticum dicoccum (Emmer) grown for commercial purpose in India. Of these species, T. aestivum is the most dominant species computing about 90-95% of whole wheat area of the country and is grown in almost all the wheat growing regions of the states. \r\nGlobal climate models predict that rise in mean ambient temperature between 1.8 to 5.8°C by the end of this century (Masson et al., 2021). Developing new crop varieties adaptable to future climate, we need to know how crops respond to elevated temperatures and how heat tolerance can be improved (Halford, 2009). One of the most important abiotic agent limiting plant growth and productivity worldwide in agriculture is heat stress. It is recognizable that two thirds of the potential main crops yields were drastically affected by undesirable environmental factors. Heat response variables, such as membrane thermostability, epicuticular wax increased osmotic adjustment production, and so on cause to neutralize or minimize heat stress effects. \r\nOver the period of time plants have evolved to survive in conditions which are hardly ideal for maintenance of normal physiology and may be at the limit for existence. In response, plants can avoid, adapt and overcome the stress by means of different biochemical and physiological mechanisms. Glaucousness is the whitish or grayish appearance of leaf blades, glumes, sheaths, and stems of plants. This appearance is because of the epicuticular wax exudates secreted by plant organ. As the primary interface between plant and its environment the cuticle plays a vital role in maintaining the plant’s integrity within an inherently hostile environment. Outermost surface is covered with a hydrophobiclayer of a long chain aliphatic molecules, collectively referred to as cuticular wax. \r\nLeaf epicuticular wax is frequently define as a bluish-green covering on the adaxial and abaxial surfaces of leaf and appears during the early reproductive stages. It is associated with increased stress tolerance in rice (Oryza sativa L.) (Haque et al., 1992), maize (Zea mays L.) (Meeks et al., 2012), barley (Hordeum vulgare L.) (Febrero et al., 1998), wheat (Bennett et al., 2012), sorghum (Sorghum bicolor L.). In addition to the leaf surface, epicuticular wax also present on the peduncle (culm), leaf sheath, stem sheath, glumes, and other areas of the plant, performing as a hydrophobic barrier between the surrounding environment and leaf epicuticle (Bird et al., 2007). \r\nAvailability of sufficient genetic variability is very crucial for any crop improvement programme. Amount of sufficient variability in experimental material is desirable characteristics for any successful breeding programme. All varieties usually do not maintain the same kind of relationship under variable temperatures. Screening genotypes and their use in research experiment for heat tolerance will enable us to develop thermos-insensitive or temperature insensitive varieties which will ultimately boost up the production of wheat in temperature prone countries. The present research describes morphological trait particularly, epicuticular wax, responses and to explore how these relation can be exploited to improve heat tolerance in wheat crop.\r\nMATERIAL AND METHODS \r\nThe present investigation was carried out at Breeders Seed Production Unit, Department of Plant Breeding and Genetics, Jawaharlal Nehru Krishi Vishwa Vidyalaya, Jabalpur, Madhya Pradesh (India) in the rabi season 2021-22. Fifteen wheat genotypes were grown in a heat stress and optimal growth conditions in 2021-2022. Each genotypes was replicated 2 times for both control and high temperatures conditions in RCBD. \r\nGlaucousness scores. The data was taken in the form of descriptor codes with slight modification assigned by PPV and FRA & UPOV for the crop wheat. Glaucousness was scored visually at vegetative and anthesis stage. Visual rating of glaucousness was recorded. Genotypes were classified as (1=Low, 3=Medium, 5=Moderate, 7=High and 9=Very high glaucous) based on the visual rating of glaucousness appearance of culm, leaf sheath, ear and flag leaf.\r\nRESULT \r\nSignificant differences were observed for epicuticular wax between the cultivars. The interaction between cultivar and environment for the morphological traits namely Culm: waxiness of peduncle, Flag leaf: waxiness of leaf sheath, Ear: waxiness and Flag leaf: waxiness of leaf blade were observed and showed in Fig. 1 to 4.\r\nCulm: waxiness of peduncle. JW 3336 showed high glaucousness under both timely and late sown condition.DBW 14, RAJ 3765, and DBW 71, WH 730 showed medium and moderate glaucousness with equal magnitude in both timely and late sown condition. Sharpest decline was observed in JW 1201 for late sown condition, while GW 273declines from high to moderate and genotypes GW 322, MP 4010 and JW 3382 declines from moderate to medium glaucousness in normal to late sown conditions.\r\n \r\nFlag leaf: waxiness of sheath. Genotypes GW 273, DBW 14, DBW 71, RAJ 3765 and WH 730 showed increase in epicuticular wax for leaf sheath in normal to late sown condition. DBW 71 and WH 730 falls under very high glaucous category and GW 273 and Raj 3765 falls under high glaucous category in late sown conditions. JW 3336 maintains a constant glaucousness in both the environmental conditions. Decline was observed from moderate to medium level for GW 322 and JW 1201 from normal to late sown conditions, while deepest decline was observed for genotype JW 3211. \r\n \r\n\r\nEar: waxiness. JW 3288, DBW 71 and WH 730 showed increase in glaucousness in late sown conditions as compared to other genotypes. Sharpest decline was observed in RAJ 3765 for late sown conditions, while low glaucousness was observed for GW 366. DBW 71 showed very high glaucousness and JW 1203, JW 3288, MP 4010 and WH 730 showed moderate level of glaucousness. \r\nFlag leaf: waxiness of blade. While talking about another important morphological traits, flag leaf: waxiness of blade, genotypes DBW 71, RAJ 3765 and WH 730 increases and showed very high glaucousness in late sown condition. JW 3336, DBW 14 and MP 4010 increases from normal to late sown condition and showed high glaucousness. GW 322 and JW 1201 declines to medium glaucousness from normal to late sown condition. \r\nDISCUSSION\r\nEpicuticular wax is not only the product of genetics of plant body but is also greatly influenced by the ambient environmental conditions and its composition and concentration differs drastically across and within the species (Elham et al., 2012; Kim et al., 2007).\r\nResult obtained in this study also showed that epicuticular wax content declines in genotypes GW 366, GW 322, JW 1201, JW 1202 under heat stress environments. Similar result were supported by Huggins et al. (2018) where some wheat genotypes produced lower amount of wax content in both the environments. \r\nWheat genotypes viz., JW 3336, WH 730, RAJ 3765, and DBW 71performed better in terms of epicuticular wax synthesis in culm, flag leaf sheath, ear and flag leaf in late sown condition as compared to other genotypes. This result inference that heat stress increase the amount of epicuticular deposition on the leaf surface. Clarke and Richards 1988 also showed higher amount of epicuticular wax in wheat in response to heat stress condition. In addition to this epicuticular wax can reduce the amount of irradiation entering the leaf, thus reducing thermal load by reflecting back the extra light and act as a barrier in hot and dry environments (Sanchez et al., 2001). Huggins et al. (2018) found similar pattern of higher epicuticular wax synthesis in high temperature stress as compared to control treatment. As these genotypes are mentioned as heat tolerant genotypes and epicuticular wax is interconnected with various physiological traits influencing plant water use &for this reason it may decrease leaf CT and increases heat tolerance thereby resulting in an improved yield stability (Pinto et al., 2010). Samuels et al. (2008); Bi et al. (2017) also suggested that glaucousness has been associated with several traits and physiological processes, mainly related to increased drought and heat tolerance and thereby higher yield under hear and dry conditions. So accumulation of epicuticular wax in tolerant genotypes can be screened as an indirect selection criterion for heat stress condition. Furthermore it has been also mentioned (Elham et al., 2012) that under both water and heat stress conditions wheat genotypes produce 20 percent more amount of epicuticular wax. This study reasonably suggest that there is interaction between epicuticular wax layer and the corresponding environment similar to findings reported in peanuts (Samdur et al., 2003). \r\n','Vinay Prakash Bagde, R.S. Shukla, Suneeta Pandey and Vikas Verma (2022). Classification and Evaluation of Epicuticular wax in Wheat (Triticum aestivum L.) for Heat stress Screening. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 14(3): 1295-1299.'),(5468,'136','Morphometric and Quality Traits Performance in Wild Pomegranate (Daru)','Anmol Negi, Tara Gupta, Sushmita Thakur, Aman Mahajan, Vipul Sharma and Shweta','219 Morphometric and Quality Traits Performance in Wild Pomegranate _Daru_ Anmol Negi.pdf','',1,'The study aimed to investigate the morphometric variability and quality traits performance in Wild Pomegranate (Daru) in ten seed sources spread across five districts of Himachal Pradesh during 2017-2018. The phenotypic characters (i.e. tree height, tree diameter, crown spread (N-S) and crown spread (E-W)), floral biology, fruit morphological characteristics (i.e. fruit shape, fresh fruit weight, fruit length, fruit width, fresh seed weight) and biochemical analysis (i.e. TSS, total sugar, reducing sugar, non-reducing sugar, acidity) of fruits were recorded. Significant variability in phenotypic, fruit morphological, and biochemical traits have been found among seed sources, providing room for further development of the breeding strategy for wild pomegranates (Daru). Fruit selection is an important method in pomegranate breeding projects since the wild pomegranate is typically grown from seeds, which tends to produce heterozygosity and variances. Therefore, it is essential to start the study project on the reproductive side, keeping in mind the vast potential for improvement and breeding of wild pomegranate (Daru), on the basis of its reproductive characteristics, fruit variations, and also the socio-economic value.','Phenotypic, morphology, seed source, wild pomegranate, Daru','The fact that wild pomegranates saw less insect pest attacks during the survey of different seed sources suggests selection and hybridization as a means of improving commercially grown Punica granatum L. cultivars. The current study\'s findings include seed source, for which it was discovered that there is heterogeneity in morphological features and fruit quality both between and within seed sources. Using a combination of individual tree selections, particularly for fruit traits, the wild pomegranate improvement initiatives are highlighted as a step toward examining enhanced genotype in the wild pomegranate populations.','INTRODUCTION\r\nThe wild pomegranate (Daru) is a member of the Punicaceae family, indegeneous to Iran (Persia) and is the oldest fruit known to mankind. It has been grown in a variety of agro-climatic conditions. In temperate climates, it is deciduous, but in tropical and subtropical climates, it is evergreen or partially deciduous. The Western Himalayan areas, which include states like Himachal Pradesh, Jammu & Kashmir, and Uttarakhand, this fruit grows in wild (Pandey et al., 2008). In the Himachal Pradesh foothills, there are several wild varieties of pomegranate that can be used to make \"Anardana\" (Singh and Singh 2006). It is evenly distributed throughout the districts of Solan, Sirmour, Mandi, Shimla, Kullu, and Chamba in Himachal Pradesh (Bhrot, 1998). Wild pomegranate may be cultivated in a variety of soil types, although it thrives in effectively drained light and medium soils. In light soils, fruit quality and colour development are good, while in heavy soils, they are poor. The ‘Daru’ fruit has therapeutic and medical value, as well as excellent storage properties. The arils (seeds) have a delicious flesh that ranges from white to crimson red. Plant blossom during the spring season in North India, although they bloom all year in Central and South India. According to Nath and Randhawa (1959b) there are three well defined flowering seasons i.e. Ambe bahar (February-March), Marig bahar (June-July) and Hasth bahar (September-October). \r\nSome wild pomegranate cultivars have relatively soft seeds, while others have huge, hard seeds. The principal sugars in the fruit are glucose and fructose. The edible part of fruit is rich in minerals, vitamins, sugar, acids, polysaccharides, and polyphenols (Gil et al., 2001; Kulkarni et al., 2004) and also are rich source of anthocyanins and hydrolysable tannins (Wu and Tian 2017). Because of its therapeutic qualities, most locally developed wild cultivars are farmers\' selections that are being maintained through vegetative multiplication. However, the wild pomegranate germplasm in the Himalayan region is rapidly disappearing as a result of human encroachment (Rana et al., 2012; Khan et al., 2014). Exploiting the ex situ conserved genetic diversity of the wild pomegranate is essential to prevent difficulties caused by the modern cultivars\' limited genetic diversity in the future. This is because the wild pomegranate evolved in response to a variety of environmental pressures. The many aspects of the domestication process and the causes of its genetic diversification can be illustrated through studies on the genetic variety of wild pomegranates (Langlie et al., 2014). There is a requirement to undertake genetic characterization and breeding potential studies on the selected seed sources in order to harness genetic values through progeny evaluation and multiplication.\r\nMATERIAL AND METHODS\r\nCurrent study was carried out during 2018 in the Department of Tree Improvement and Genetic Resources, College of Forestry, Dr. Y. S. Parmar University of Horticulture and Forestry, Nauni, Solan, Himachal Pradesh. Seed sources included Narag (S1) and Neripul (S2) district Sirmour, Waknaghat (S3) and Sadhupul (S4) district Solan, Basantpur (S5) district Shimla, Sundernagar (S6), Rewalsor (S7) and Aut (S8) district Mandi, Mohal (S9) and Banjar (S10) district Kullu were selected (Table 1). Five middle sized trees approximately of same age group were selected on the basis of their height, diameter, crown spread, suitability and general acceptability. Nine flowers were tagged on each tree to study sex ratio, flower type at pre-anthesis stage and after anthesis these were categories into three groups viz; hermaphrodite, intermediate and male flowers. Five medium sized fruits from each plant were randomly collected for physico-chemical analysis. A digital calliper was used to measure the size of the fruit. The TSS was calculated using a hand refractometer. By titrating the known volume of juice with 0.1 N NaOH and using phenolphthalein as an indicator, the titrable acidity was calculated. (AOAC 1998). Statistical analysis was done using RBD and CRD experimental designs.\r\nRESULTS\r\nThe average mean values of phenotypic characters have been depicted in Table 2. The maximum tree diameter and tree height were recorded from Neripul seed source which shows potential of phenotypic superiority. \r\nAll three types of flowers; hermaphrodite, intermediate, and male were counted, and it was found that the percentage of hermaphrodite blooms varied between different seed sources.Among the type of flowers studied in all the seed sources, hermaphrodite flower was observed maximum accounting for 54.00 per cent in Waknaghat followed by intermediate flowers (30.81%) in Aut and male flower (23.45%) in Narag (Table 3). The results are consistent with the findings of Nath and Randhawa (1959a), Nalawadi et al. (1973) and Singh et al. (1978) for pomegranate cultivars. The maximum percentage for hermaphrodite flowers observed in Waknaghat i.e. 54.00 per cent. Intermediate flowers have been observed maximum in Aut 30.81 per cent. Likewise, maximum percentage for male flowers has been recorded in Narag i.e. 23.45 per cent.\r\nResults for fresh fruit weight showed significant variation among seed sources with maximum mean value of 41.69 g found in Basantpur. Fruit length and fruit width was recorded maximum for Banjar (S10). Fresh seed weight also showed significant variation among seed sources. Results computed in Table 4 revealed that Neripul (S2) had maximum fresh seed weight of 26.96 g.\r\nVariation in total sugar content was found to be significant for different seed sources. It is evident from the Table 5 that total sugar and reducing sugar content varied between 7.82 to 12.81 per cent and 5.12 to 10.01 per cent, respectively. Highest sugar contents (12.81%) and reducing sugar (10.01%) was recorded for fruits collected from Sundernagar seed source. Non reducing sugar values varied from 1.51 to 2.66 per cent and has been computed highest for Sundernagar (2.66%). Total soluble solids varied from 9.61 to 15.01 per cent and has been recorded highest in Sundernagar seed source (15.01%). Titrable acidity varied from 5.04 to 7.24 per cent and was recorded higher in Sadhupul (7.24%). Sharma and Thakur (2018) computed in their study that wild form of pomegranate fruits are similar to cultivated pomegranates for various traits but exceptionally have higher acidity in comparison of cultivated one.\r\nDISCUSSION\r\nA. Tree phenotypic characters \r\nPhenotypic characters are of first and foremost importance for species improvement. Phenotypic traits exhibit great significance and showed considerable genetic variability within seed sources. The mean average height of trees varied from 3.96 to 8.35 m, tree diameter varied from 9.43 to 14.72 cm and crown spread (N-S) range observed from 5.45 to 14.48 cm and crown spread (E-W) ranged between 3.40 to 5.67 m (Table 2). These characters were used as a criterion for selecting the trees. The findings were similar to Joshi and Joshi, (2001) study, which indicated that this species has been found in Kathmandu, Nepal and can grow up to heights of 5 to 10 metres.\r\nB. Floral biology \r\nOn the basis of the length of the pistil relative to the filament and stamen, three types of flowers were identified: hermaphrodite, male, and intermediate. Lawrence (1951), Watson, and Dallwitz (1992) concurred with these findings. Based on the length of the pistil and the shape of the bloom, they divided pomegranate flowers into three categories. Bell-shaped flowers were considered as male, whereas vase-shaped flowers were hermaphrodites. While working on pomegranate cultivars, Nath and Randhawa (1959a) provided the criteria for projecting floral kinds and documented the presence of functionally unisexual male flowers. The hermaphrodite or perfect flowers have long style, protruding distinctly through staminal column.\r\nB. Fruit morphological and Biochemical studies\r\nThe most promising individuals were chosen based on key commercial characteristics such as fruit size and TSS. According to Samadia and Pareek (2006), there was significant variation between individuals in all fruit quality characters. The best-performing individuals with outstanding fruit quality may be further examined for high production potential after multiplication. \r\n\r\n','Anmol Negi, Tara Gupta, Sushmita Thakur, Aman Mahajan, Vipul Sharma and Shweta (2022). Morphometric and Quality Traits Performance in Wild Pomegranate (Daru). Biological Forum – An International Journal, 14(3): 1300-1304.'),(5469,'136','Antagonistic activity and Bioefficacy of Bacillus subtilis against Sheath Blight of Rice (Oryza sativa L.) caused by Rhizoctonia solani','Pragya Thakur, R.K.S. Tiwari, V.K. Nirmalkar, S.K. Verma and N.K. Chaure','220 Antagonistic activity and Bioefficacy of Bacillus subtilis against Sheath Blight of Rice _Oryza sativa L._ caused by Rhizoctonia solani Pragya Thakur.pdf','',1,'Bacillus subtilis is a major plant growth promoting rhizobacteria (PGPR) and a potential bio control agents against many plant pathogens of crop plants. In the present study six isolates of Bacillus subtilis were collected from SBCL, Chorbhatti Bilaspur while five isolates of Bacillus subtilis were isolated from different soils of rice fields representing different locations of Chhattisgarh. All the eleven isolates were tested on their antagonistic activity against Rhizoctonia solani under in vitro. The isolates showed varied level of inhibition and found the isolates BS1 showed maximum percent growth inhibition (80.73%) against R. solani with least mycelial growth (17.33mm). In vivo different isolates of B. subtilis were evaluated against sheath blight of rice of all the isolates of B. subtilis against R. solani result indicate that BS4 was most effective isolates for disease controlling potential with minimum percent disease index (33.29%) compared to other isolates. Similarly, the B. subtilis isolates BS4 (42.73%) was found to be more effective least percent tillers mortality in sheath blight of rice caused by R. solani under pot culture.','Bacillus subtilis, Rhizoctonia solani, Antagonistic activity','The results suggested that the Bacillus subtilis isolates has antimicrobial ability and disease controlling potential. Further, it suggests that Bacillus subtilis BS1 showed high antimicrobial activity against Rhizoctonia solani and B. subtilis BS4 was most effective for the management of sheath blight of rice under in vivo condition. Further, it can be used as potential biocontrol agents, which is eco-friendly, long lasting and cost ineffective.','INTRODUCTION\r\nRice crop is affected by several biotic factors i.e., viruses, fungus, bacteria, nematodes, and insect pests. Many diseases produced by diverse phytopathogens, such as blast, sheath blight, sheath rot, stem rot, and bacterial leaf blight (BLB), have a significant impact on rice production. Among these diseases, rice sheath blight (ShB) caused by Rhizoctonia solani Kuhn, is a devastating disease that causes significant yield loss and quality degradation throughout the world (Eizenga et al., 2002; Nagarajkumar et al., 2004; Nirmalkar et al., 2017a). Management of diseases of crop plants is difficult due to absence of resistance in the host and unavailability of resistant cultivars of rice, therefore, chemical control is only effective methods for the management of diseases however, it also causes soil and water pollution. Despite the fact that pesticides are recommended for pathogen reduction, they are not considered to be long-term remedies because of concerns about cost, fungicide residues, exposure risks, toxicity to non-target organisms, and other health and environmental issues. Therefore, current efforts have been concentrated on producing environmentally safe & ecofriendly, long-lasting, and effective therapies against a wide range of plant diseases. Thus, the alternative ways for reducing the use of harmful agrochemicals have become a prominent emphasis in recent years (Boukaew et al., 2013). Biocontrol is a critical strategy for reducing the use of chemicals in disease management (Han et al., 2015; Nirmalkar et al., 2017a).\r\nThe Bacillus spp. are classified in the order Bacillales and family Bacillaceae. Bacillus subtilis was first discovered by Ehrenberg in 1835. First known as Vibrio subtilis, it was renamed in 1872 by Cohn. Bacillus subtilis is a gram-positive, rod-shaped bacteria with peritrichous flagella (Nakano and Hulett 1997) and spore-forming bacterium that is widely distributed in the soils and environment, having the characteristics of high thermal tolerance, rapid growth in liquid culture, and readily form resistant spores. Several important plant pathogens, including Fusarium sp. (Cao et al., 2011), Rhizoctonia solani (Kumar et al., 2012), and Sclerotium rolfsii, can be suppressed by B. subtilis (De Curtis et al., 2010). Bacillus subtilis, which forms endospores, is one of the PGPRs that plays an important role in plant growth promotion and biocontrol of plant pathogens (Glick, 1995).\r\nNow a days, widely used of biological agent in reducing plant diseases has become more attractive and effective method due to their benefits and advantage of plant growth enhancing besides disease control. Such enhancement and benefits has been found in Bacillus subtilis. Therefore, in view of plant growth promotion and disease suppression ability of Bacillus subtilis the present study on antagonistic activity and bioefficacy of Bacillus subtilis against sheath blight of rice. \r\nMATERIALS AND METHODS \r\nBacterial strains. Eleven isolates of Bacillus subtilis were used for present investigation. Six isolates of Bacillus subtilis were procured from State Bio Control Laboratory (SBCL), Chorbhatti, Bilaspur, Chhattisgarh and five isolates were obtained from the rhizosphere soil samples of different rice growing region of Chhattisgarh.\r\nIsolation of Bacillus subtilis. One g of soil sample was suspended in 9 ml sterile water and subjected to serial dilution (10-1-10-8). An aliquot of 0.1 ml/ 100µl of each dilution was spread on LB agar medium (Tryptone 10g, Yeast extract 5g, NaCl 10g, Agar agar 15g in 1 L distilled water) by pour plate method (Janisiewicz, 1988 and Roberts, 1990; Pramer and Schmidt 1965). The inoculated plates were incubated at 28° for 24 h. After incubation, the individual colonies were selected based on the their colour, shape, edges further subculture to obtained pure culture (Rangaswami and Mahadevan 2008). The isolated pure colonies were examined to their morphological characteristics and gram staining for the identification of isolates as Bacillus subtilis. Rhizospheric isolates designated as BS7 to BS11 and procured isolates designated as BS1 to BS6.\r\nDiseased plant sample collection. Diseased plant samples of sheath blight of rice caused by Rhizoctonia solani were used in the present studies was collected from rice field from Sendri, Bilaspur, Chhattisgarh.\r\nIsolation and identification of Rhizoctonia solani. For the isolation of R. solani, infected leaf sheath/ tillers were used and surface sterilize with 0.5% sodium hypo chlorite for 3 min and washed with distilled water in three changes. Sheath segments were blotted dry with blotting paper and cut into small bits using sterile blade and placed on Potato Dextrose Agar (PDA) medium with the help of forceps. Inoculated plates were incubated at 25±2oC for 7 days. Young active growth of fungal mycelial (5mm) was cut with the help of cork borer and sub-cultured on a new PDA medium to obtained pure culture. Fungal cultures were maintained on PDA slants and stored at 4oC in refrigerator for further use (Killani et al., 2011).\r\nPathogenicity test: Before the experiment was carried out to test the virulence of R. solani. Artificial inoculation of rice seedlings sown in earthen pot using sclerotial inoculation method. In this method growing sclerotia was used and placed in between the leaf sheath of rice. After 3 days of inoculation, a typical symptoms of sheath blight were appeared on to the sheath with greyish, water soaked lesion, dark brown margin on the leaf sheath above water line. This confirmed that pathogen (R. solani) has ability to cause disease and expressed in the form of symptoms (Nagendran et al., 2019).\r\nTo screen of the isolates of Bacillus subtilis for their antagonistic activity against Rhizoctonia solani under in vitro\r\nDual culture method: The antagonistic activity of different isolates of Bacillus subtilis against Rhizoctonia solani and was investigated performed by dual culture technique under in vitro condition (Elkahoui et al., 2012). A mycelial disc (5mm), obtained from 5 days old culture of Rhizoctonia solani (test pathogen) was cut with the cork borer, and a loopful Bacillus subtilis of 24 h old cultures were placed on the Bacillus Potato Dextrose Agar medium (Rajkumar et al., 2018; Anillo et al., 2021) opposite to each other, equidistant from the periphery, and Petri dishes were incubated at 28±2oC. Three replications were maintained for each treatment. The Petri plate containing test pathogen alone served as control. After 7 days of incubation, radial growth of pathogen was recorded, and the percentage inhibition was calculated using following formula (Muthukumar and Venkatesh 2013).\r\nPercentage of mycelial growth inhibition was calculated by using the formula: \r\nI = (C-T/C×100)\r\nwhere, I is inhibition of radial mycelial growth, C is radial growth measurement of pathogen in control (mm) and T is radial growth measurement of pathogen (mm) in the presence of antagonists.\r\nAfter 7 days of incubation, number of sclerotia was counted from each treatment (Nagendran et al., 2019).\r\nIn vivo evaluation of isolates of Bacillus subtilis against sheath blight of rice \r\nMass culture of Bacillus subtilis. A single colony of 24 h old culture of test isolates, picked from the culture slants, was transferred and grown to a 250 ml capacity of conical flask containing 100ml LB broth medium and incubated at room temperature for 4 days at 200 rpm using arotatory shaker. The prepared culture being used as a mass culture. Ten % (10ml broth/100ml distilled water) bacterial suspension was used as spray material (Kumar et al., 2012; Khedher et al., 2015).\r\nPreparation of pathogen inoculums. Five mm diameter of mycelia disc were used from 48 hold active growth culture of R. solani was inoculated on PDA medium contained in 30cm diameter of plastic plate seal covered with sterile polythene. The inoculated plates were incubated at 25±2° in BOD incubator for 7 days. After incubation, fungal cultures were cut into rectangular sections (3 cm length× 1.5cm width) and placed into the sheath in between the tillers (Nagendran et al., 2019).\r\nIn vivo studies: Twenty days old seedlings were used for transplanting. Five seedlings were transplanted into earthen pots of 9\'\' height with the diameter of 6.3\'\' having loam soil. After the establishment of seedlings and at maximum tillering stage, each pot was inoculated with mass culture of R. solani. Fungal inoculums grown on PDA was cut into rectangular bits and placed into the sheath in between the tillers. After inoculation, plants were covered with polythene bag to maintain humidity. After the appearance of first symptoms, liquid formulations (10ml/100ml distilled water) of different strains of B. subtilis were sprayed on host plant. Hexaconazole@0.1% was used as positive control while distilled water alone used as a negative control. Two sprays were done, first spray was done after the disease appearance and second spray was done after 10 days interval of first spray. Each treatment was maintained in three replications. Pot experiment were carried out in greenhouse conditions using CRD design for 45 days. The plants were observed critically for visual scoring of disease incidence and severity using the standard evaluation scale (0-9 scale) suggested by the International Rice Research Institute (IRRI), 1996.\r\nVisual scoring of sheath blight incidence rating scale given by International Rice Research Institute (IRRI), 1996.\r\nPer cent Disease Index (PDI) was calculated by using the formulas given by IRRI, (1996).\r\nPDI= (Sum of all individual rating)/(Total No.of plant observed)×100/(Maximum disease scale)\r\nObservations recorded. Percent Disease Index (PDI) based on 0-9 scale (Nagendran et al., 2019).\r\nPercent tillers mortality: Number of dead tillers/Total number of tillers ×100\r\nStatistical analysis. All the experimental data were statistically analysed using appropriate design i.e., CRD with desired transformation as applicable. \r\nRESULTS AND DISCUSSION \r\nExperiment was conducted under in vitro conditions, the antagonist Bacillus subtilis exhibited a significant inhibition of the R. solani compared to the control (Table 1, Fig. 1). All the eleven B. subtilis isolates were tested and the maximum percent growth inhibition was recorded by B. subtilis isolate BS1 (88.73%) followed by BS3 (78.84%) which was statistically at par among themselves. Whereas, the other B. subtilis isolate showed (60.14%) per cent inhibition by B. subtilis isolate BS2, (59.83%) inhibition by B. subtilis isolate BS8 (59.83%) which were statistically at par among themselves, whereas, the least per cent inhibition (2.14%) of R. solani was recorded by B. subtilis isolate BS11 over control. The maximum number of sclerotia was recorded in B. subtilis isolate BS11 (52.33) followed by BS10 (48.66), BS9 (47.00), BS4 (45.33), BS5 (41.66), BS6 (33.33), BS2 (25.66), BS8 (21.33), BS7 (19.00) and BS3 (18.66), whereas, minimum number of sclerotia was recorded in B. subtilis BS1 (16.33). Severely, Huang et al. (2017) also reported such types of results and concluded their findings that in vitro antagonistic activity of Bacillus subtilis strain SL-44 showed significant antifungal activities with an inhibition rate of 42.3% against Rhizoctonia solani. Jamali et al. (2019) reported that the Bacillus subtilis strain RH5 exhibited significant antagonistic activity (84.41 %) against the fungal pathogen Rhizoctonia solani. Nagendran et al. (2019) reported that Bacillus subtilis strain Bs 7 showed maximum mycelial growth inhibition 51.1% over the control followed by Bs19 observed 49.4% mycelial growth reduction against Rhizoctonia solani causing sheath blight diseases. Ghazy and Nahrawy (2021) reported that the antifungal activity of Bacillus subtilis significantly inhibited with inhibition percent was 51.55% and reduced the growth of Cephalosporium maydis by 4.36 cm compared to control.\r\nIn vivo evaluation of isolates of Bacillus subtilis against sheath blight of rice. Pot experiment was carried out in the in vivo greenhouse condition for disease controlling potential of different isolates of Bacillus subtilis against sheath blight of rice. Different isolates of B. subtilis were used as foliar spray@10% concentration in controlling sheath blight of rice. All the isolates of B. subtilis were found more effective in plant disease reduction over control.\r\nResults indicate (Table 2, Fig. 2) that the least per cent disease index was recorded in B. subtilis treatment T4 (33.29%) which showed maximum disease controlling potential on sheath blight and which was statistically at par with the other treatments i.e. T8 (36.28%) and T1 (40.70%), whereas, the isolates i.e. T9 (73.32%) was not effective in controlling sheath blight and other B. subtilis isolates i.e. T5 (64.40%) and T2 (62.29%) which was significantly effective in controlling sheath blight over control (80.73%) which was statistically at par with each other. The significantly less minimum per cent tillers mortality was recorded from B. subtilis T4 treatment (42.73%) and treatment T3 (42.80%) compared to control which was statistically at par among themselves which showed the less effective treatment on sheath blight over control (91.26%). Moreover, significant maximum per cent tillers mortality was recorded in B. subtilis treatment T9 (89.69%) followed by B. subtilis treatment T2 (75.19%) and B. subtilis treatment T10 (68.95%), T12 (68.86%), T5 (68.64%), T6 (67.11%) which were statistically at par with each other. Present results confirmed to the finding of Ali and Nadarajah (2013) also reported that the efficacy of Bacillus subtilis and Trichoderma isolates showed effective is ease reduction under greenhouse conditions against Rhizoctonia solani. Combine application of Bacillus subtilis and Trichoderma isolates T2+Bs and T7+Bs showed significant disease severity and disease incidence (4.33% and 11%), respectively, over the control (42.33% and 67.0%). B. subtilis showed 17.67% and 44.33% disease severity and disease incidence against R. solani alone. Similarly, Khedher et al. (2015) reported the efficacy of Bacillus subtilis V26 as a biological control agent against Rhizoctonia solani on potato under pot experiment. Here ported that the disease incidence on potato plant roots was significantly lower compared to control. StrainV26 (SPO2-CM) treatment resulted in low disease incidence on potato plant roots, with 63% of reduction. The application of V26 significantly reduced potato tuber caused by black scurf diseases and decrease disease incidence rate to 81% over the untreat done when using strain V26 (SPO2) treatment. Different bioagents i.e., T. harzianum, B. subtilis and P. fluorescens earlier proved as a potential bio-agent of soil borne plant pathogens (Nirmalkar et al., 2017) was found effective against different pathogens i.e., Rhizotonia solani, Fusarium oxysporum f. sp. Ciceris etc may be used alone or in combination with different bioagents as a seed and soil treatment. \r\n','Pragya Thakur, R.K.S. Tiwari, V.K. Nirmalkar, S.K. Verma and N.K. Chaure (2022). Antagonistic activity and Bioefficacy of Bacillus subtilis against Sheath Blight of Rice (Oryza sativa L.) caused by Rhizoctonia solani. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 14(3): 1305-1311.'),(5470,'136','Post-harvest quality of Potato Genotypes under different Types of Mulching Materials','M. Surekha, M. Thirupathi Reddy, M. Paratpara Rao and M. Ravindra Babu','221 Post-harvest quality of Potato Genotypes under different Types of Mulching Materials M Surekha.pdf','',1,'Mulching is an effective method of manipulating crop growth environment to increase yield and improve product quality by controlling weed growth, reducing soil temperature, conserving soil moisture, improving soil structure and enhancing organic matter content of the soil. The locally available paddy straw and coconut coir are selected as mulching materials for studying the post-harvest quality of different heat tolerant breeding lines of potato under coastal zone of Andhra Pradesh. The experiment was carried out during rabi season (November 2021-february 2020) in split-plot design with two replications using two locally available mulching materials (paddy straw and coconut coir) along with control (earthing up) as main plot treatments and eleven genotypes of potato (HT/21-1, HT/21-2, HT/21-3, HT/21-5, HT/21-7, HT/21-11, HT/21-15, HT/21-16, HT/21-17, HT/21-18 and HT/21-20) along with control Kufri Surya as sub-plot treatments. Among genotypes, HT/21-2, HT/21-5, HT/21-16, HT/21-17, HT/21-18 and Kufri Surya with shallow eye depth, round to oval shaped tubers, desirable skin and flesh colour were found to have superior external tuber quality traits for fresh and processing market. On the basis of desirable nutritional/compositional quality traits, the genotypes HT/21-2 (20.91%) and HT/21-17 (20.17%) with dry matter content >20% and HT/21-11 (0.13%), HT/21-5 (0.14%) and HT/21-17 (0.15%) having reducing sugars (%) which is within the limits of desirable variety were found to be highly suitable for processing into crisps. Based on the storage studies, HT/21-7 showed significantly longer shelf life of storage with lowest sprouting (1.35%) and rotting (2.13%) of tubers under room temperature. Among mulching materials, paddy straw mulch was found to be significantly superior for dry matter content (19.45%), sprouting (2.44%) and rotting per cent (4.41%) followed by coconut coir mulch when compared to control with earthing up.','Potato, Genotypes, Mulching materials, Quality, Dry matter content','On the basis of desirable external tuber quality traits like eye depth (shallow), shape (round and oval), skin colour (brown and yellow) and flesh colour (yellow and yellow cream and cream), the genotypes HT/21-2, HT/21-5, HT/21-16, HT/21-17, HT/21-18 and Kufri Surya were of superior tuber quality traits for fresh and processing market. On the basis of nutritional/compositional quality traits like dry matter content (>20%), the genotypes HT/21-2 (20.91%) and HT/21-17 (20.17%) and reducing sugars (>0.15%), the genotypes HT/21-11, HT/21-5 and HT/21-17 having reducing sugars (%) which is within limits of desirable variety were found to be highly suitable for processing. Based on the storage studies, HT/21-7 showed significantly longer shelf life of storage. Hence, it can be recommended for storage under room temperature for longer period. Based on the desirable quality parameters, the mulching material paddy straw mulch was found to be superior for dry matter content, sprouting (2.44%) and rotting percentage (4.41%) followed by coconut coir mulch compared to control without mulching.','INTRODUCTION \r\nPotato (Solanum tuberosum L.) belongs to the family Solanaceae. It is native of Peru-Bolivia in the Andes, South America (Luthra et al., 2006). Potato is one of the world’s most important non-cereal and high yielding horticultural food crops. It is considered to be the fourth major food crop after rice, wheat and maize (Zhang et al., 2016). Production is oriented principally towards internal consumption, approximately 81% of the national production is commercialized fresh for household consumption and potato processing industries use the rest to make crisps and French fries. \r\nIn the case of tuber potatoes, quality can be defined as the sum of favourable characteristics of the tuber, which is a subjective and dynamic concept that depends on consumer’s lifestyles and food habits (Richards et al., 1997) and the industrial process used. A complex set of external and internal quality traits are required for fresh and processed potatoes. External quality traits include tuber shape, eye depth, skin and flesh color (Jansky, 2009). These characters are especially important for fresh market potatoes, but they may also impact processing quality. Nutritional/compositional quality parameters includes dry matter content, reducing sugar, enzymatic discoloration and vitamin C content (Storey, 2007). \r\nTuber dormancy (resting period) of potato tubers is the physiological state after harvest, during which tubers do not sprout (Wiltshire and Cobb 1996) even when stored under conditions favorable for sprouting (Van den Berg et al., 1996). Premature sprouting and rotting are major causes of losses during post-harvest storage of potatoes, since it reduces the number of marketable tubers.\r\nMATERIALS AND METHODS\r\nAn experiment was carried out to study the effect of mulching on post-harvest quality in different genotypes of potato at Centre of Excellence for Protected Cultivation, Horticultural Research Station, Dr. Y.S.R. Horticultural University, Venkataramannagudem, West Godavari District, Andhra Pradesh during rabiseason (November 2021-February 2022). The experiment was laid out in split plot design with two replications using two locally available mulching materials (paddy straw and coconut coir) along with control (earthing up) as main plot treatments and eleven heat tolerant breeding lines of potato (HT/21-1, HT/21-2, HT/21-3, HT/21-5, HT/21-7, HT/21-11, HT/21-15, HT/21-16, HT/21-17, HT/21-18 and HT/21-20) along with control (Kufri Surya) as sub-plot treatments with plot size of 3m × 1m. The tubers were planted at a spacing of 60 × 20 cm. To supplement the nutritional requirement of the crop, recommended dose of fertilizers for plateau region i.e.,125:100:125 kg NPK ha-1 was applied. Foliar spray of water-soluble compound fertilizer such as 19-19-19 kg N-P2O5-K2O was given one month after sowing. Second spray was given at 45 days after sowing with the above fertilizer and third spray was given with water soluble fertilizer 13-0-45 kg N-P2O5-K2O for better tuber growth. Weeding was done manually at regular intervals. First irrigation was given immediately after planting of tubers to ensure better emergence. Subsequent irrigations were given depending upon moisture status of soil retained as per requirement of plants. Observations on external tuber quality traits (tuber shape, eye depth, skin colour and flesh colour) were recorded as per the minimal descriptors of potato (Huaman et al., 1977). Nutritional/compositional quality traits like dry matter content (%) was estimated as per the procedure given by Luthra et al., 2013. Dry matter content was calculated using the following formula:\r\nDry matter content (%) = \r\nReducing, non-reducing and total sugars were estimated by Lane and Eynon (1923) method as described by Ranganna (1986). Vitamin C content was determined by following the procedures given by Ranganna (1986). Observations on sprouting and rotting of tubers were recorded.\r\nRESULTS AND DISCUSSION\r\nThe analysis of variance revealed that main effects of potato genotypes were significant for dry matter, vitamin C content, reducing, non-reducing and total sugars (%), sprouting and rotting (%). Main effects of mulching materials were significant for dry matter content, sprouting and rotting (%). Interaction effects between genotypes and mulching materials were significant for dry matter content.\r\nA. Post-harvest quality of potato genotypes\r\nTuber shape, eye depth, skin and flesh color are crucial aspects for consumers, as they are immediately obvious while making the purchase (Werij, 2011). These characters are especially important for fresh market potatoes, but they may also impact processing quality. Internal quality includes dry matter content, reducing sugar, enzymatic discoloration and nutritional quality such as vitamin C content (Storey, 2007). These characters are especially important for processing quality.\r\n1. External tuber quality traits. \r\nExternal quality traits like tuber shape, eye depth, skin and flesh colour of different genotypes were presented in Table 1.\r\nTuber shape. The shape of the tuber is one of the most eye-catching traits of the potato. To minimize waste during processing, varieties with long tubers are preferred for french fries and varieties with round tubers are preferred for chips. Five genotypes viz., HT/21-2, HT/21-7, HT/21-18, HT/21-20 and Kufri Surya produced oval shaped tubers, while HT/21-3, HT/21-5 and HT/21-11 produced oblong shaped tubers which are good for making french fries. HT/21-1, HT/21-15, HT/21-16 and HT/21-17 produced round shaped tuber which are suitable for making chips. \r\nEye depth. Eye depth is an important quality trait because deep eyes affect the appearance of tubers and add to the cost of peeling in processing industries. So, shallow eyed potato tubers are preferred for processing. Seven potato genotypes viz., HT/21-2, HT/21-5, HT/21-7, HT/21-16, HT/21-17, HT/21-18 and Kufri Surya had shallow eyed tubers while remaining genotypes had medium eyed tubers.\r\nTuber skin colour. Skin colour is one of the most easily noticeable traits of potato tuber. Potato genotypes under study showed lot of variability in skin colour as it ranged from white-cream (HT/21-7 and HT/21-15) to brown (HT/21-1, HT/21-2, HT/21-3, HT/21-11, HT/21-16, HT/21-17, HT/21-20 and Kufri Surya). Most of the genotypes viz., HT/21-1, HT/21-2, HT/21-3, HT/21-11, HT/21-16, HT/21-17, HT/21-20 and Kufri Surya had brown skin colour tubers. HT/21-5 and HT/21-18 had yellow skin colour. HT/21-7 and HT/21-15 had white cream colour skin.\r\nTuber flesh colour. Tuber flesh colour in potato varied from yellow (HT/21-1, HT/21-3, HT/21-5 and Kufri Surya) to cream colour (HT/21-2, HT/21-16 and HT/21-17). The variation in tuber flesh colour is mainly due to two naturally occurring pigments, i.e., anthocyanins and carotenoids. The higher content of lutein, violaxanthin and total carotenoids are present in yellow-fleshed potatoes. HT/21-1, HT/21-3, HT/21-5 and Kufri Surya produced yellow-fleshed tubers. HT/21-2, HT/21-16 and HT/21-17 produced cream colour fleshed tubers. HT/21-11, HT/21-18 and HT/21-20 produced yellow cream colour fleshed potatoes.\r\n2. Nutritional/compositional quality traits.\r\nDry matter content (%). For the processing industry dry matter content is a critical component, it is a measure of the internal quality of tubers. Main effects of genotypes, mulching materials (Table 2, 3) and their interaction effects (Table 4) were significant for dry matter content in potato. Dry matter content in potato genotypes varied significantly from 15.78% (HT/21-18) to 20.91% (HT/21-2). Dry matter content was highest in genotype HT/21-2 (20.91%), followed by HT/21-17 (20.17%) and HT/21-5 (19.38%).Dry matter content was highest in genotypes under paddy straw mulching (19.45%), followed by coconut coir mulching (18.47%) when compared to control without mulching (16.80%). Genotypes and mulching materials had significant interaction effect on dry matter content. Dry matter content was highest in genotype HT/21-2 under paddy straw mulching (22.58%) and lowest in HT/21-18 under no mulching (15.23%). Dry matter content in potato is affected by environmental factors during growth of the crop, such as solar radiation, soil temperatures, soil moisture, fertilizers and haulm killing (Haverkort, 2007).\r\nPotato tubers with high dry matter content >20% are preferred to achieve good colour chips and less oil absorption during frying (Kirkman, 2007). Therefore, among the 12 potato genotypes under study, HT/21-2 (20.91%) and HT/21-17 (20.17%) having high dry matter content were found to be promising for chip making. The variation in the dry matter content among the genotypes might be due to difference in their inherent characteristics. Similar results were reported by Sadawarti et al. (2018). The increase in dry matter content under mulching materials might be due to congenial root zone temperature which leads to better crop growth and increased biomass accumulation. Similar findings were reported by Dhakal et al. (2011); Banerjee et al. (2016).\r\nVitamin C (mg/100 g). Simple effect of genotypes was significant (Table 2) but the main effects of mulching materials and their interaction effects were non-significant for vitamin C content (Table 3, 4).\r\nVitamin C content in potato genotypes varied significantly from 15.39 mg/100 g (HT/21-1) to 22.91 mg/100 g (HT/21-20). Vitamin C content was highest in genotype HT/21-20 (22.97 mg/100 g), followed by HT/21-3 (22.79 mg/100 g) and HT/21-5 (22.18 mg/100 g). Potato is considered as a good source of antioxidants such as vitamin C. Diets rich in antioxidants have been associated with a lower incidence of atherosclerotic heart disease, certain cancers, macular degeneration and severity of cataracts (Cook and Samman 1996). The most important factor which influences the vitamin C content of potato is variety (Hrabovska et al., 2021). The variability of the vitamin C content among genotypes might be due to the difference in their genetic constitution. Similar findings were reported by Rizvi et al. (2020).\r\nReducing, non-reducing and total sugars (%). Significant variation in reducing sugars, non-reducing sugars and total sugars was observed among the genotypes (Table 2) while among mulching materials and their interaction effect, it was found to be non-significant (Table 3, 4).\r\nReducing sugars in potato genotypes varied significantly from 0.62% (HT/21-1) to 0.13% (HT/21-11). Reducing sugars was lowest in genotype HT/21-11 (0.13%) followed by HT/21-17 (0.14%) and HT/21-5 (0.15%). Hence, for manufacturing good quality potato chips, optimum reducing sugars should be less than 0.15 % or 150 mg/100 g of tuber fresh weight (Sowokinos and Preston, 1988). Therefore, HT/21-11, HT/21-5 and HT/21-17 genotypes of potato under study having reducing sugars (%) which is within limits of desirable variety are suitable for processing into chips. Non-reducing sugars in potato genotypes varied significantly from 0.08 % (HT/21-11) to 0.29 % (HT/21-18). Non-reducing sugars was lowest in HT/21-11 (0.08%), followed by HT/21-5 and HT/21-18 (0.10%) and Kufri Surya (0.12%). The sugar content of the harvested crop is important for the fresh market and the sucrose levels above 1% were reported to give an unacceptably sweet taste to the boiled potatoes (Storey, 2007). None of the potato genotypes under evaluation were found to have non-reducing sugars above 1%. Total sugars in potato genotypes varied significantly from 0.21% (HT/21-11) to 0.88% (HT/21-1). Total sugars content was lowest in genotype HT/21-11 (0.21%) followed by HT/21-17 (0.24%) and HT/21-5 (0.25%). Majority of the potato genotypes except HT/21-11, HT/21-17, HT/21-5 had significantly highest total sugars when compared to control Kufri Surya (0.30%). \r\nSugar levels in a potato tuber are conditioned by several factors, which include genotype, the environmental conditions and cultural practices during growth, and several post-harvest factors including storage (Kumar et al., 2004). Variability in the sugars (%) might be due to the difference in their genetic makeup. Similar findings were reported by Lavanya et al. (2021).\r\n3. Sprouting and Rotting (%).\r\nSprouting and rotting of tubers during storage after 60 days of harvest under normal storage conditions were significantly influenced by both genotypes and mulching materials but non-significantly influenced by the combination of genotypes and mulching materials (Table 4). Sprouting varied significantly among potato genotypes from 1.35% (HT/21-7) to 4.60% (HT/21-3). Sprouting was lowest in genotype HT/21-7 (1.35%), followed by HT/21-15 (1.67%) and HT/21-20 (1.84%). Sprouting was lowest in potato genotypes under paddy straw mulching (2.44%) followed by coconut coir mulching (2.68%) when compared to control without mulching (2.98%). \r\nRotting in potato genotypes varied significantly from 2.13% (HT/21-7) to 9.33% (HT/21-17). Rotting was lowest in genotype HT/21-7 (2.13%), followed by HT/21-20 (2.22%) and HT/21-5 (2.35%). Mulching materials had significantly influenced rotting of potato genotypes. Rotting was lowest under paddy straw mulching (4.41%) followed by coconut coir mulching (4.64%) when compared to control with earthing up (4.93%). There was no significant interaction between genotypes and mulching materials on sprouting and rottingof tubers. The variations in sprouting and rotting percentage among potato genotypes might be due to the difference in their genetic makeup. Due to the presence of lower maximum temperatures under mulching materials might have increased the dormancy period and reduced sprouting and rotting in potato tubers during storage. Similar results were reported by Pulok et al. (2014). On the whole, the genotypes HT/21-7 and HT/21-20 with significantly lower sprouting by 45.12 and 35.11%, respectively and rotting by 25.78 and 22.65%, respectively after 60 days of harvest during storage under normal storage conditions compared to control Kufri Surya were found to be highly suitable for long-term storage.\r\n','M. Surekha, M. Thirupathi Reddy, M. Paratpara Rao and M. Ravindra Babu (2022). Post-harvest quality of Potato Genotypes under different Types of Mulching Materials. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 14(3): 1312-1317.'),(5471,'136','Principal Component Analysis (PCA) in Pigeonpea (Cajanus cajan (L.)Millsp.) germplasm','M. Dhanushasree and A. Thanga Hemavathy','222 Principal Component Analysis _PCA_ in Pigeonpea _Cajanus cajan _L._Millsp._ germplasm M. Dhanushasree.pdf','',1,'The research was conducted using sixty eight pigeonpea genotypes based on yield and its contributing traits using principal component analysis (PCA) in order to determine the genetic diversity among genotypes. Analysis of Variance (ANOVA) revealed significant differences among accessions for all the quantitative traits viz., days to fifty per cent flowering and days to maturity, plant height (cm), number of primary branches per plant, pod length (cm), number of pods per plant, number of seeds per pod, pod weight per plant (g) and hundred seed weight (g) and single plant yield (g). Principal component analysis (PCA) revealed that the first three principal components had eigen value greater than 1 which accounted for 68.72 per cent of total variation. PCA biplot revealed that the traits days to maturity and days to fifty per cent flowering had weak positive correlation with hundred seed weight, zero correlation was observed with traits viz., pods per plant, single plant yield and pod weight. Negative correlation was observed between number of seeds per pod and the traits days to maturity and fifty per cent flowering. Thus, the above results were utilized to select the more diverse germplasms and could be used as parents in heterosis breeding programmes.','Pigeonpea, eigen vector, eigen value, loadings, PCA, Biplot','PCA can be used as an important technique to enhance the breeding programme because it extracts all the key components and highlights their contribution to total variability. PCA biplot revealed the high performing genotypes viz., CO(Rg) 7, DPP 3-81 and ICP 9808 can be effectively utilized for crop improvement programmes. ','INTRODUCTION\r\nPigeonpea (Cajanus cajan (L.) Millsp.) is a photosensitive, highly nutritious tropical grain legume crop belongs to the family Fabaceae with chromosome number (2n=22). Introduction of short duration pigeonoea varieties have been developed to accommodate in diverse cropping systems but couldn’t have comparable yield as long duration ones. Hence, breeding of varieties with high yield and early maturing is the need of the hour. Genetic diversity studies are a prerequisite for any crop improvement program. Hybridization and selection are two crucial steps in the process of plant breeding. Thus, study of many morphological characters in germplasm is important for assessment of the differences among populations in order to identify population differences and breeding potential. Plant breeders frequently measure a huge number of characteristics, some of which may not have enough discriminatory power for evaluation, characterization and management germplasm (Maji and Shaibu 2012). In such case, principal component analysis (PCA) may be used to reveal patterns and eliminate redundancy in data sets (Mahalingam et al., 2020) as morphological and physiological variations routinely occur in crop species. PCA simplifies a large data series into smaller set of variables without losing any vital information of original data set by seeking for groups that have very strong inter-correlation with per cent variation explained for each component towards the total variability (Das et al., 2017).. Biplot Analysis is an exploratory graph method used in statistic with two-dimensional chart that represents of multidimensional dataset. The research aim was planned to estimate the diversity through classification of genotype through Principal Component Analysis (PCA).\r\nMATERIALS AND METHODS\r\nSixty eight pigeonpea genotypes along with five checks (Table 1) were evaluated on the basis of ten agro-morphological traits at Department of Pulses, Tamil Nadu Agricultural University, Coimbatore. The genotypes were raised in Augmented Block Design II (ABD II) during rabi, 21. Ten quantitative traits used for diversity analysis viz., days to fifty per cent flowering and days to maturity, plant height (cm), number of primary branches per plant, pod length (cm), number of pods per plant, number of seeds per pod, pod weight per plant (g) and hundred seed weight (g) and single plant yield (g). Principal Component Analysis (PCA) was performed using the mean data of pigeonpea accessions. The analysis was carried out using R software package. \r\n\r\nRESULTS AND DISCUSSION\r\nAnalysis of Variance (ANOVA) performed for ten quantitative traits revealed presence of significant variation among genotypes and can be subjected to further analysis (Table 2).\r\nEigen vectors and eigen values. The Principal Component Analysis (PCA) resulted in the formation of three principal components with eigen value greater than 1. The eigen value for PC1, PC2 and PC3 was 3.41, 2.24 and 1.21, respectively. Other principal components (PC4 to PC10) had discriminatory power. The first three principal components which accounted for 68.72 per cent of total variation which was depicted in the scree plot (Fig. 1) and Table 3. Hamid et al, (2011) reported 76.2% of total variance during evaluation of hundred germplasm lines for various morphological and agronomic traits. Component matrix showing latent vectors associated with first three principal components was given in the Table 4. Maximum amount of variation was contributed by PC1 (34.16%) to the total variance followed by second principal component (PC2) (22.44%) and third principal component (PC3) (12.10%). The first principal component (PC1) contributed maximum variation to the total variation showed positive loadings for all the studied traits. Similar findings were reported by Rekha et al. (2013); Tharageshwari and Hemavathy (2020) using pigeonpea germplasm accessions. The eigen vector value > 0.4 may be considered as large loadings. The trait with eigen vector values greater than 0.4 could be effectively utilized for selection which contributes greater variation to the principal component. Loadings with maximum value was observed in traits viz., number of pods per plant (0.973) followed by single plant yield (0.905), pod weight (0.87), number of branches per plant (0.229) and number of seeds per pod (0.207). The results were found accordance with findings of Hemavathy et al. (2017), where PC1 contributed maximum to total variance with positive correlation with all traits except single plant yield.\r\nThe second principal component (PC2) showed 22.44 per cent of variation which exhibited positive loading for all traits except number of seeds per pod (-0.027). The traits viz., days to maturity (0.984), days to 50 % flowering (0.98), plant height (0.337) and number of branches per plant (0.108) which showed large positive loading and provide maximum contribution to percent of variance. Similar findings were reported by Yohane et al. (2020) for traits viz., plant height, number of primary branches, number of pods per plant, hundred seed weight and grain yield per plant. \r\nThe third principal component (PC3) contributed 12.10 per cent of total variation. It showed positive loadings for traits viz., number of seeds per pod (0.974), single plant yield (0.233), pod weight (0.185), plant height (0.058), pod length (0.052) and number of branches per plant (0.027). Conversely, negative loading was present in traits viz., days to fifty per cent flowering (-0.012), days to maturity (-0.019), number of pods per plant (-0.001) and hundred seed weight (-0.04) which depicted that these traits showed negative contribution to the genetic divergence. The results were supported by the findings of Zavinon et al. (2019) where, the traits days to 50 per cent flowering and days to maturity showed negative contribution to divergence. \r\nPCA Biplot analysis. PCA biplot was indicated with two-dimensional chart that represents multidimensional dataset (Fig. 3). The correlation between the variables can be detected by measuring the angle between two variables. If the angle between two variables was 90 degrees, it was represented that there was no correlation between two variables. Positive correlation was detected if the angle was less than 90 degree and if the angle was more than 90 degrees, it was found that negative correlation between two variables. Vector line length was used for representation of variance level of the variable. The distance between genotypes and the variable were used to detect the contribution of variable to the genotype. Closer the distance higher the value and vice versa for farther distance. Considering the above conditions, PCA biplot was concluded that the traits days to maturity and days to fifty per cent flowering had weak positive correlation with hundred seed weight, zero correlation with pods per plant, single plant yield and pod weight. Negative correlation was observed between number of seeds per pod and the traits days to maturity and fifty per cent flowering. High positive correlation was observed among the traits viz., days to maturity, days to fifty per cent flowering, plant height, pod length and number of branches per plant. The traits viz., days to maturity, days to fifty per cent flowering, single plant yield (g), number of pods per plant and pod weight showed maximum variance as these variables were represented to have maximum vector length. Contrarily, the traits pod length, hundred seed weight and number of seeds per pod showed minimum variance with shorter vector length. The results were in concurrence with the findings of Yohane (2020) while analysing phenotypic divergence of eighty one pigeonpea genotypes for both quantitative and qualitative traits. In the PCA biplot, the best performing genotypes were concentrated in the right quadrant of the biplot. The genotype AL 2184 which observed to have minimum value for all the variables was plotted in the negative left quadrant. Likewise, the genotypes CO(Rg) 7, DPP 3-81 and ICP 9808 which showed maximum performance of all the variables plotted on the right quadrant. \r\n','M. Dhanushasree and A. Thanga Hemavathy (2022). Principal Component Analysis (PCA) in Pigeonpea (Cajanus cajan (L.) Mill sp.) germplasm. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 14(3): 1318-1323.'),(5472,'136','Constraints Encountered by Sugarcane Farmers in Adopting Water Management Practices','Shanjeevika V., Balasubramaniam P., Venkatesa Palanichamy N., Venkata Pirabu J. and Duraisamy, M.R.','223 Constraints Encountered by Sugarcane Farmers in Adopting Water Management Practices Shanjeevika V.pdf','',1,'Sugarcane is India’s most important cash crop. Sugarcane production plays an important role to the Indian economy. The present study was conducted with the explicit aim of analyzing the constraints faced by sugarcane farmers in putting recommended water management practices into reality. Tiruvannamalai district of North Eastern Zone in Tamil Nadu was purposively selected for the study as it had highest number of revenue blocks under critical groundwater explosion. Two villages from Thandrampet block namely Kolunthampet and Sirupakkam were selected for the study. Sugarcane is one of the water- guzzing crops which has number of water management practices to be followed. Hence sugarcane was selected for the study. Constraints in adopting water management practices was assessed by using Henry Garrett Ranking technique. A total of 80 respondents were selected for the analysis. Poor quality of drippers (67.26), Complex procedure in availing Drip Irrigation system (65.85), Difficulty in relay out of drippers for next season (64.81), High cost of coir pith (59.73), Clogging of drippers due to salt water (54.93), Non availability of buds of required varieties to adopt Sustainable sugarcane Initiative (56.54) were the major constraints encountered by the farmers. These constraints have to be cast away in order to improve the adoption of water management practices among farmers.','Constraints, Water Management practices, Sugarcane, Henry Garrett Ranking','Water supplies available for irrigation and rainfed agriculture will face new constraints over the next few decades. Water demand in agriculture will continue to rise as a result of rising population and economic growth. By 2050, approximately 57.0 percent of the world\'s population will live in areas with a water shortage for at least one month of the year. As sugarcane is a water-intensive crop, it is critical to implement water management initiatives to minimize water waste. However, it is clear from the preceding context that farmers face a variety of challenges in adopting water management practises. We have a compelling need to eliminate these constraints in order to increase sugarcane farmers\' adoption of water management practises. Furthermore, policy notes can be drafted based on farmer suggestions. Organizing water efficiency programmes and public gatherings to raise public awareness of the need to conserve water and its scarcity. Agriculture universities should take the lead in advising farmers on water-saving crop patterns that take soil and other climatic factors into account.','INTRODUCTION\r\nWater is becoming scarce, limiting agricultural production in developing countries worldwide. About 50.00 per cent of the world\'s water demand can be met by 2025 if irrigation technologies are used effectively (Ganesan et al., 2018). Water scarcity is a pressing issue, and many steps are being taken by the Government and Non-Governmental Organisations to use water as efficiently as possible (Pandian et al., 2014). To ensure global food security, the world will need to produce 60% more food by 2050, while conserving and improving the natural resource base (Dhawan, 2017). Water stress and scarcity indicators are commonly used to reflect a country\'s or region\'s overall water availability. According to international standards, a country is classified as water stressed or water scarce if its per capita water availability falls below 1700 m3 or 1000 m3. With a per capita water availability of 1544 m3, India is already a water-stressed country on the verge of becoming water scarce (Asoka and Mishra 2015). Water is an important input in the production of food, from the field to the end of the value chain. With rising demand and competition for water, the planet\'s water resources are under increasing strain as a result of climate change, poor management, and pollution (FAO, 2021). Now, there is no other option but to save every drop of water for irrigation in the field.\r\nSugarcane is India\'s most important cash crop. Sugarcane is grown in various states all through the country\'s subtropical and tropical regions. Sugarcane production plays an important role to the Indian economy. India is the second largest producer of sugarcane after Brazil. During 2015-16, the area under sugarcane was estimated to be 49.27 lakh hectares, which was higher than the normal area coverage (Indiastat, 2021) In India, sugarcane cultivation covered 5 million hectares, or roughly 2.57 percent of the total planted area. It supports the livelihood of almost 60 lakh sugarcane farmers and numerous association members through indirect employment. Tamil Nadu is the third largest producer of sugarcane (Department of Agriculture and Cooperation, 2016). Despite of these benefits, sugarcane is a water-guzzling crop. On average, 1 kg of sugar requires about 1500–2000 kg of water. Paddy and sugarcane use the majority of the nation\'s irrigation systems, which reduces the amount of water available for other crops. In States like Maharashtra, pressure on water due to sugarcane cultivation has become a severe concern, necessitating more effective and sustainable water usage through alternate cropping patterns. This is particularly crucial in areas where the usage of groundwater has reached a critical point and is overexploited or if more than 50% of surface water is used for irrigation of sugarcane alone. (Shanthy et al., 2021) Considering the critical need of water conservation, the task group of NITI AYOG advises switching some of the land currently used for sugarcane cultivation to less water-intensive crops by offering farmers the right incentives The task force also suggest to expand drip irrigation in sugarcane cultivation which saves about 40 % to 50 % of water (Singh et al., 2021). As a result, the Government is making a number of efforts to increase water use efficiency in cultivation. To conserve water, measures including mulching technology, popularizing drip irrigation, and other water management techniques are being used. However, farmers are experiencing difficulties implementing these practices. The results won\'t be successful until these constraints are extracted. The present study was conducted with the explicit aim of analyzing the constraints faced by sugarcane farmers in putting recommended water management practices into reality.\r\nMETHODOLOGY\r\nThe study was Tiruvannamalai district of Tamil Nadu’s North Eastern zone which has 18 blocks. Thandrampet block was purposively selected for the study because it had major area under sugarcane cultivation. Kolunthampet and Sirupakkam villages were purposefully selected from the block because they had highest area under sugarcane cultivation. Agriculture Department\'s records and the block\'s statistics handbooks were used to compile a list of all sugarcane farmers in each village. A total of 80 respondents were selected using Proportionate random sampling technique. The respondents were selected using the formula:\r\nni = [ Ni / N] × n\r\nWhere, ni = Number of respondents to be selected from ith district\r\n Ni = Total number of respondents in the ith district \r\nN = Total number of respondents in the three districts \r\nn = Sample size (n = 80)\r\nFinally, 45 respondents were chosen from a total of 658 sugarcane farmers in Kolunthampet village, and another 35 respondents were chosen from a total of 523 sugarcane farmers in Sirupakkam village, for a total of 80 respondents. The constraints were ranked using the Henry Garrett ranking technique.\r\nOPERATION OF HENRY GARRETT RANKING TECHNIQUE\r\nThe respondents were shown the constraints and asked to rank them in order of importance. The method was used to rank the constraints perceived by respondents in adopting water management practices in Sugarcane. It is used to identify the most significant constraint influencing respondents\' adoption. Problem rankings can be converted into scores using Henry Garrett\'s Ranking Technique. As a result, each constraint will be assigned a unique rank. The primary advantage of this technique over simple frequency distribution is that the constraints are arranged according to their severity in the eyes of respondents. As a result, the same number of respondents on two or more constraints may have ranked differently. Garrett\'s formula for converting rank to percentage is as follows:\r\nPercent position = 100 * (Rij –0.5)/Nj \r\nWhere, Rij = rank given for ith constraint by jth individual; \r\nNj = number of constraints ranked by jth individual\r\nThe percent position of each rank is converted into scores using table provided by Garrett and Woodworth (1969). Individual respondents\' scores will be added together and divided by the total number of respondents for each constraint. The mean scores for all constraints are arranged in descending order, and the constraints are ranked accordingly. The percent position of each rank is converted to scores using the table provided by Garrett and Woodworth (1969). For each constraint, the scores of each respondent are added up and divided by the total number of respondents. The constraints are arranged in decreasing order based on the mean scores for all constraints.\r\nFrom Table 4, it is evident that poor quality of drippers was found to be the major constraint with a mean score of 67.26. Although drip irrigation systems are offered at 100% subsidy for small farmers and 75% subsidy for large farmers, the drippers\' quality is debatable. The respondents also added that drip irrigation systems barely last for two years. Some micro irrigation firms provided very low-quality valves that broke frequently with handling and had inappropriate design. Therefore, a high-quality drip irrigation system is required. Measures has to be taken to double check the quality of drippers before installing in the framer’s field. Moreover, monitoring committee can be appointed and supervision can be done in the 3rd year. In case the drippers are damaged; measures can be taken to replace the drippers. The findings are in line with Hiremath and Makadia (2021) who mentioned that poor quality of drippers as major constraint in their study.\r\nComplex procedure in availing Drip Irrigation System for water management was administered as second major constraint with a mean score of 65.85. This was because of the fact that necessary documents have to be submitted by farmers to the officers to avail Drip Irrigation System. These documents include Patta, Adangal, Small Farmers Certificate and Field Measurement Block Sketch. But many of these certificates are valid only for six months, so there were in need of upgrading it regularly. If a mistake is found then the document will be returned back. This subsequently caused a delay in the drip system installation and subsidy release. The Extension personnel claimed that ratio of extension workers to farmers were less. Thereupon, measures have to be unleashed by Government to increase the Extension personnel: Farmer ratio. This was in accordance with findings of Meti (2012).\r\n\r\nThird major constraint confronted by the respondents were relay out of drippers for next season was difficult with a mean score of 64.81. Removing the drippers during the harvest because of the damage due to machineries is important. But removing the drippers and relay out of these drippers was back- breaking for the farmers. \r\nHigh cost of coir pith was endured as fourth main constraint with a mean score of 59.73. Application of coir pith was found to have higher retention of soil moisture. Use of composted coir pith at 10 or 5 t/ha is recommended for efficient water management (Dhanapal et al., 2019). But one ton of coir pith ranges between Rs.17,500 to Rs. 18,000. The farmers claimed that the cost of coir pith was higher and also, it was not available during the peak seasons. Hence, Government can take measures in providing coir pith to farmers at subsidized rate along with fertilizers.\r\nNon availability of buds of required varieties to adopt Sustainable Sugarcane Initiative was mentioned as fifth main constraint with mean score of 56.54. Farmers grow a wide range of sugarcane varieties, but only a few popular varieties, such as CoC 86031 and CoC 11015, are in high demand. Canes of the required age (6-8 months) of such varieties are not available in some areas, for which factory management and nursery agencies can take initiatives.\r\nSixth major constraint put up by them was that the duration to avail second set of subsidized Drip irrigation system is too long. This constraint had a mean score of 54.89. The respondents mentioned that the Drip Irrigation System last only for 2 years. But the beneficiary can avail the next Drip Irrigation System only after 7 years. So, the duration for availing the second set of Drip Irrigation System can be reduced to 4-5 years. \r\nDamage of laterals during intercultural operations and harvest was encountered as seventh major constraint with a mean score of 48.53. The majority of the farmers harvested sugarcane on contract, and the cutting labourers paid little attention to lateral damage during harvest. The farmers did not follow detrashing and propping frequently. This made the situation worse. Since the canes were lodging it was extremely difficult for the respondents to take the drippers out. So, they had to practice harvest with the laterals in the field itself. The findings were in conformity with Shanthy et al. (2021).\r\nThe eight main constraint was lack of skilled labour for handling buds with mean score of 45.40. The main principle of Sustainable Sugarcane Initiative is to transplant seedlings raised from single budded chips. The respondents noticed that extra care has to be taken while transplanting the seedlings or else the roots are damaged. But the labourers were not skilled enough in transplanting. \r\nDifficulty in performing propping & trash mulching and unavailability of labour for trash mulching was perceived as nineth and tenth constraint with a means core of 44.13 and 43.80 respectively. The recommended spacing for sugarcane is 30 × 30 × 30 /150 cm but they follow 20X20X20. Because they feel that closer spacing is providing higher yield which in turn cause difficulty in propping and trash mulching.\r\nMulching increases the soil moisture by 9.54 per cent (Zhang et al., 2016). The farmers also conveyed that there was scarcity of labour during peak seasons for trash mulching. The farmers suggested that a small portion of beneficiaries of Mahatma Gandhi National Rural Employment Guarantee Act (MGNREGA) can be diverted as agricultural labourers. This would be beneficial for both the farmers and beneficiaries. Effective policy has to be framed for this issue.\r\nLack of knowledge about improved varieties was appraised as eleventh constraint. Co 86032, Co 88006, CoTl 88322, Co 95014 are varieties which are tolerant to drought. But the farmers are not aware of these varieties. Measures has to be taken to take farmers to Regional Research stations to get updated information on varieties and other practices. The findings were in line with Shanjeevika et al. (2020).\r\nSalt encrustations in drippers was perceived as twelfth constraint with a score of 42.09. This was because of the fact that water may contain organic or inorganic components, and the dripper line may become clogged by salt build-up, slowing the rate at which the water is discharged from the sets and causing uneven water distribution. This can be prevented by regular cleaning of drippers with acid or chlorine, flushing it out at regular intervals, proper maintenance of sub main and main pipes. The findings were in accordance with Madhava and Surendran (2016) who reported that clogging of drippers was the major constraint in adoption of drip irrigation system.\r\nUnavailability of Drip Irrigation System to farmers having less than 1 acre of land was the thirteenth constraint. The observation revealed that they shared patta of the land with their relatives. While receiving the subsidies, there were no problems, but when they divided their portions, they fell into this category. Additionally, getting a certificate for Small and Marginal Farmers from the Tahsildar was a time-consuming process. Therefore, policies need to be designed with small farmers who have less than 1 acre of land in mind.\r\nInadequate follow up by the agency and inadequate funds from Government for large farmers were perceived as fourteenth and fifteenth constraint with mean scores of 38.38 and 36.06 respectively. The findings were in accordance with Singh and Kaur (2020) who reported that follow up after installing the Drip Irrigation System became very low. Large farmers reported that though they have more than 5 acres of land they are in need of subsidized products as their economic status were not upto the mark. So, they requested to extend subsidies to them also.\r\n','Shanjeevika V., Balasubramaniam P., Venkatesa Palanichamy N., Venkata Pirabu J. and Duraisamy, M.R. (2022). Constraints Encountered by Sugarcane Farmers in Adopting Water Management Practices. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 14(3): 1324-1329.'),(5473,'136','Seasonal Incidence of Defoliators and Girdle Beetle of Soybean (Glycine max) and its Correlation with Weather Factors','H. Patidar, M.K. Nayak and D.S. Tomar','224 Seasonal Incidence of Defoliators and Girdle Beetle of Soybean _Glycine max_ and its Correlation with Weather Factors M K NAYAK.pdf','',1,'Soybean crop is adversely affected by attack of major defoliators and borers viz., tobacco caterpillar, green semilooper and girdle beetle. Population density of insect pests fluctuates with changing weather conditions. Abiotic factors regulate seasonal incidence, population count and development rates of the pests. The trial was conducted during kharif 2019 at College of Agriculture, Tikamgarh, Madhya Pradesh to find out the occurrence of defoliators and girdle beetle of soybean. Present study revealed that the incidence of defoliator pests viz., Green semilooper, (Thysanoplusia orichalcea) and Tobacco caterpillar started from third week of August (33rd standard week) with a population of 0.2/mrl (Metre row length) and reached at its highest level during the second week of September (37th standard week) with a population of 5.0/mrl and 3.2/mrl. The incidence of girdle beetle was initiated from third week of August (33rd standard week) with 1.18 girdle/mrl and reached its peak during first week of October (40th standard week) with 5.08 girdle/mrl. Correlation studies revealed that maximum temperature showed significantly positive correlation (r= 0.71) with green semilooper larval population. Whereas minimum temperature observed positive correlation (r = 0.46) with green semilooper larval population while morning and evening relative humidity, sunshine and rainfall was found to be negatively correlated (r = -0.24, -0.01, -0.13, -0.29 respectively) with green semilooper larval population but to the non-significant level. While correlation studies with tobacco caterpillar exhibited significant negative correlation (r = -0.71) with rainfall and positive correlation with maximum and minimum temperature. While morning and evening relative humidity were found to be negatively correlated (r = -0.23, -0.20 respectively) to non significant level. However rainfall exhibited significant positive correlation (r = 0.71) with the infestation of girdle beetle. The sunshine morning and evening relative humidity were found to be negatively correlated (r = - 0.17, -0.03, -0.06 respectively) with the incidence of this pest to the level of non-significance. Other abiotic factors maximum and minimum temperature was positively correlated (0.22, 0.23) with non-significant impact on the incidence of girdle beetle.','Seasonal incidence, Semilooper, Tobacco caterpillar, Girdle beetle','It may be concluded from the study that the maximum activity of green semilooper and tobacco caterpillar were recorded during the second week of September, however the peak incidence of girdle beetle was recorded during first week of October. Correlation studies exhibited that among the various abiotic factors, maximum temperature exhibited significant positive correlation with green semilooper, whereas, Tobacco caterpillar population, exhibited significant negative correlation with rainfall. While the incidence of girdle beetle indicated significant positive correlation with rainfall. ','INTRODUCTION\r\nSoybean is one of the most important crops of the world largely grown in United States of America, Brazil, Argentina, China, and India and its plays very crucial role in international trade (Baig et al., 2017). It is a unique crop with high nutritive value, providing 40 per cent protein and 20 per cent edible oil besides minerals and vitamins (Sasvihalli et al., 2017). In India soybean is cultivated in 12.19 Million ha with production of 9.3 metric tons and average productivity of 763 kg/ha (USDA 2019). Major production of soybean comes from Madhya Pradesh, Maharashtra and Rajasthan. In Madhya Pradesh, cultivated area of soybean is 51.952 lakh ha with production of 40.107 lakh tons and productivity 772 kg /ha. Soybean area under Tikamgarh district is 0.175 lakh ha with the production of 0.146 lakh million tones and productivity 834 kg/ha is respectively during 2019 (SOPA 2019). Soybean crop is attacked by more than 300 insect’s species, out of them only a few attain major pest status. The soybean crop is attacked by these pests from seedling stage to maturity and cause nearly 25% reductions in yield. Earlier studies conducted by many worker (Sonule et al., 2019; Chaturvedi et al., 1998) have indicated that The green semilooper (Chrysodeixis acuta Walker), tobacco caterpillar (Spodoptera litura) and girdle beetle (Obereopsis brevis Swedenbord) are among the most common soybean pests in central India. The distribution, host plant, biology, symptoms of damage and various control measures for the management of major insect pest of soybean to enhance the productivity is also reported by Gaur and Mogalapu (2018). The low productivity of soybean both at national and state level is attributed to a biotic and abiotic stresses like drought, insect pest and disease. Among these biotic stress defoliator and stem borer often pose a serious threat to soybean production and impairing quality of the produce in many ways (Singh and Singh 1990). Keeping this point in view, present investigation was conducted to note the seasonal incidence of defoliators and stem borer to know the status of pests for applying need based IPM strategy.\r\nMATERIALS AND METHODS\r\nExperimental trial was conducted at College of Agriculture, Tikamgarh (M.P.) with soybean cultivar-JS-9560 during Kharif 2019. Row to row distance was 30 cm and plant to plant was 5 cm. All the agronomical practices, except the package recommended for insect pests management were adopted to raise a good crop. The data were recorded on the incidence on insect pest from the initiation of the defoliator and girdle beetle and continued till harvesting of the crop at weekly intervals. The incidence of green semilooper and tobacco caterpillar were recorded per meter row length by counting number of larvae at five places and mean was calculated. The population of girdle beetle was recorded per meter row length at five places. The healthy and girdled damaged plant were counted and percent plant infestation was calculated at the time of harvesting. Weekly data on weather parameters were also recorded. The data so obtained was then subjected to statistical analysis for correlation and test of significance. \r\nRESULTS AND DISCUSSION \r\nGreen semilooper. The green semilooper population was started from 3rd week of August (33rd standard week) with a population of 0.2 larvae/mrl. The peak activity (5.0 larvae/mrl) of the pest was observed during 37th SW (09 September to 15 September) which was almost identical to the study observed by Babu et al (2016) the peak incidence of green semilooper was observed during 33-34 SW, 33-36 SW and 37-39 SW in 2012, 2013 and 2014 respectively in the finding of indicating a close conformity to present findings. These findings leads to a conclusion that peak incidence of green semilooper may be observed at September due to the environmental conditions prevailed at that month. According to Raju et al. (2014) reported that the green semilooper population was initiated during last week of July, 2012 with 1 to 2 larvae/mrl and an average of 0.9 larvae/mrl which are not match with the present findings. Kujur (2011) reported that the population of S. litura reached its highest level during last week of August with 31.2°C maximum temperature, 24.4˚C minimum temperature, morning and evening R.H. 93% and 76%, respectively and a rainfall of 62.8 mm.\r\nCorrelation studies revealed that maximum temperature (r = 0.71) showed significantly positive correlation with green semilooper. Whereas minimum temperature (r = 0.46) exhibited positive correlation with non-significant level. However morning relative humidity (r = -0.24), evening relative humidity (r = -0.01), sunshine (r = 0.13) and rainfall (0.29) observed negative correlation at non-significant level with green semilooper population. Kalyan and Ameta (2017) also reported that green semilooper population was significantly positive correlated which is in agreement with the present results.\r\nTobacco caterpillar. The tobacco caterpillar Spodoptera litura (Fab.) was started in the 3rd week of August (33rd standard week) with a larval population of 0.88 larvae/mrl which reached its peak during the 2nd week of September (37th standard week) with a larval population of 3.2 larvae/mrl. At that time maximum and minimum temperature were 31.6°C to 24.6°C respectively, with morning and evening relative humidity 90.4% to 86.9% respectively, and rainfall 13.0mm. Choudhary 2009) observed that the scattering of Spodoptera obliqua (Walker) and Spodoptera litura was seen on soybean crop from August to October. Babu et al. (2015) exhibited that the moth populations of S. litura were active from August to mid-October and declined sharply in late October. The highest appearance was observed during the month of September-October and corresponded with maximum activity of egg masses and larval populations in soybean contributed to the outbreak of this pest during the reproductive stage of the crop. Tomar and Bhargawa (2018) recorded the green Semilooper, (Chryrodecxis acuta), tobacco caterpillar, (Spodoptera litura), as the major damaging pest of soybean crop. Damaging infestation was recorded up to 13.5%. The highest mean level of Girdle beetle (9.7 larvae/ meter/ row) were observed during 3rd week of September 35 (SMW). Sonule et al. (2019) also reported similar result of first incidence of S. litura 0.20 larvae / mrl in 32nd Standard Meteorological Week. The population of S. liture gradually increased in next few weeks and reached at its highest level during 36th SMW with 1.20 larvae /mrl.\r\nCorrelation studies indicated that rainfall exhibited significant negative correlation (r = -0.71) with larval population of tobacco caterpillar. In previous investigation negative correlation of rainfall (r = -0.55) was reported by Nayaka (2013) which is in agreement with the present results indicating that rainfall acts as a factor affecting tobacco caterpillar population at any place. \r\nGirdle beetle. Girdle beetle population was started in 3rd week of August (33rd standard week) with 1.18 girdle per meter row length. The highest incidence of the pest 5.08 girdle/mrl was recorded during 1st week of October (40th standard week). At the same time the maximum and minimum temperature were 31.1°C and 21.6°C, respectively, and morning and evening relative humidity were 88.9% and 62.7% respectively with 8.1mm rainfall. Lal et al. (2014) Observed that the maximum occurrence of girdles was observed on stem (24%), petiole (21%), petiolet (13%) and branch (10%) during second week of September. The similar movement of infestation was recorded up to 3rd week of September. Yeotikar et al. (2015) reported that the population of S.litura and H. armigera was found negligible in larval number. Incidence of girdle beetle was initial started in 30th SMW by recording 1.36% infestation and reached at harvest 61.22%. While stem tunneling due to stem fly was observed 59.45 % at crop maturity stage. Peak population (3.00 larvae/mrl) of green semilooper was recorded during 34th SMW. Kujur (2011) reported that the peak activity of the girdle beetle was found in the second week of September when the maximum and minimum temperature 28.8°C and 24.5°C, morning and evening relative humidity were 94% and 87% and rainfall was 2136.4 mm. Population of girdle beetle was correlated with weather parameters and revealed that the rainfall showed significant positive correlation (r=0.71) with the infestation of girdle beetle. The significantly positive correlation of girdle beetle with rainfall is reported by Gaur et al. (2015); Yeotikar et al. (2015). These findings are also support with present study. \r\n \r\n','H. Patidar, M.K. Nayak and D.S. Tomar (2022). Seasonal Incidence of Defoliators and Girdle Beetle of Soybean (Glycine max) and its Correlation with Weather Factors. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 14(3): 1330-1333.'),(5474,'136','Reproductive Performance of Fall Army Worm, Spodoptera frugiperda on some Maize Genotypes','Rashmi Vishwakarma*, S.B. Das, Shrikant Patidar and Shraddha Mohanta','225 Reproductive Performance of Fall Army Worm, Spodoptera frugiperda on some Maize Genotypes Rashmi Vishwakarma.pdf','',1,'Studies on various reproductive parameters of S. frugiperda were carried out on eight maize genotypes, which included pre-oviposition, oviposition and incubation periods, number of egg mass/female, egg hatching and adult longevity. All the reproductive traits differed significantly among the genotypes. The mean fecundity, incubation period and egg hatching was found to be significantly highest on CHH-213 (1043.78 eggs/female, 2.43 days and 97.23%, respectively) and lowest on JM-218 (913.50 eggs/female, 2.97 days and 86.67 %, respectively). ','Spodoptera frugiperda, maize genotypes, reproductive traits, polyphagous','In vitro studies revealed that S. frugiperda successfully developed on some of the selected maize genotypes with varying fecundity which reflects a larger number of generations and consequently increase in the damage quantum.\r\nTaking into account the importance of the promising genotypes identified, they can play an important role in influencing the FAW population. It would be necessary to screen them under natural conditions for confirming their performance.\r\n','INTRODUCTION\r\nZea mays L., a cereal crop of graminae family, is referred to as the “Queen of Cereal” due to its inherent high genetic yield potential. It can be converted through grinding, alkali processing, boiling, cooking and fermenting, into a variety of products such as corn starch, corn flakes and cereals, bioethanol, etc. (Kumar et al., 2013; Malo and Hore 2020).\r\nMaize crop is subjected to attack by over 141 insect pests during different crop growth stages. A host of pests, viz. stem borer, pink stem borer, aphids, cob borer etc. are found to be causing considerable loss in maize production both qualitatively and quantitatively (Siddiqui and Marwaha 1994). Fall army worm, Spodoptera frugiperda (J.E. Smith) (Lepidoptera: Noctuidae) is a polyphagous pest native to the America, recently it has been identified causing damage in India (Kalleshwaraswamy et al., 2018; Chaithra et al., 2020; Rajisha et al., 2021; Russianzi et al., 2021). This pest seemingly prefers a very wide host range, with over 80 plants recorded, but highly prefers the grasses viz. field corn, sweet corn, sorghum, bermuda grass and grass weeds such as crabgrass (Jamjanya, 1987; Santos et al. (2004); Barcelos et al. (2019). Fall armyworm (FAW) larvae feed on young whorls, ears and tassels causing substantial damage to maize crops (Prasanna et al., 2018). Infestations during the mid- to late-whorl stage of maize development caused yield losses of 15-73% (Hruska and Gould 1997).\r\nStudies on the reproductive parameters of insect pests are important as they provide insights for understanding aspects such as damage potential and population dynamics, as well as growth rate, fluctuation and spatial distribution, thus allowing the establishment of methods for control (Santos et al., 2004).\r\nThe aim of this study was to evaluate the impact of different maize genotypes on the reproductive parameters of adult S. frugiperda.\r\nMATERIAL AND METHODS\r\nSeeds of eight maize genotypes were obtained from All India Coordinated Research Project on Maize, Zonal Agriculture Research Station, Chhindwara, M.P. The crop was raised as per the recommended package of practices of the university, except the plant protection measures.\r\nThe initial culture of Spodoptera frugiperda was made by collecting large number of larvae from the farmers maize fields of Chhindwara. The larvae were reared individually in plastic boxes (3×7 cm) and the maize leaves of each genotypes were provided as food. The boxes were cleaned and fresh food was provided to larvae daily in the morning until pupation. The pupation took place among the leaves provided as food. After pupation, sexing of pupae was done as per Butt and Cantu (1962). The newly emerged, seven pair of male and female moths were released in plastic containers (15×16 cm) covered with muslin cloth held in position by rubber band. Cotton swabs dipped in 5 per cent honey solution were provided as food for adults. The blotting paper strips were hung from the muslin cloth covering at the top with the help of pins to provide a site for oviposition for the female moths. The F2 generation was used for experimental studies on the respective genotypes (Farahani et al., 2011).\r\nThe ovipositional sites were observed daily. Observations on pre-oviposition, oviposition and incubation periods, egg cluster/female, fecundity, hatching and longevity were recorded. The design of the experiment was completely randomized with eight treatments and replicated thrice. The significance of the treatments were computed by applying DMRT test.\r\nRESULTS AND DISCUSSION\r\nPerusal of the data in Table 1 revealed that the difference in the pre-oviposition period and oviposition periods among different tested genotypes were non-significant and they varied from 3.39 (PHM-1) to 3.57 days (JM-218) and 2.66 (JM-218) to 2.76 days (CHH- 213), respectively. The present findings are in conformity with those by Murua and Virla (2004); Santos et al. (2004); Montezano et al. (2019); Russianzi et al. (2021). It was interesting to note that the genotypes where pre-oviposition period was high, there the ovipositional periods were low. The reduction in the oviposition period may be attributed to the interaction between egg production and metabolism (Montezano et al., 2019).\r\nSignificant differences were observed in mean number of egg masses per female among the genotypes. It was highest on CHH-202 and CHH-213 (both registered 6.67 egg masses/female) followed by PHM-1, CHH-214 and JM-216 (6.17, 6.00 and 5.33 egg masses/female, respectively), but they did not differ significantly from each other. These were followed by HMM-1018, JM-12 and lowest on JM-218 (4.50, 4.17 and 3.83 egg masses/female), but statistically all were at par with each other. Similar findings have been reported by Santos et al. (2004) as they also reported that S. frugiperda larvae, when reared on maize cultivar ELISA, recorded 6.33 egg masses/female.\r\nThe data presented in Table 1 showed that difference in the mean number of eggs/egg mass among different genotypes were significant. It was highest on CHH-213 (369.20 eggs/female/cluster), but was statistically at par with CHH-202 and CHH-214 (325.57 and 305.38 eggs/female/cluster, respectively). These were followed by PHM-1 and JM- 216 (278.43 and 254.16 eggs/female/cluster, respectively), but they did not differ significantly from each other. The next genotype was HMM-1018 (215.33 eggs/female/cluster) and was significantly higher than JM-12 (188.64 eggs/female/cluster). However, lowest was recorded on JM-218 (162.16 eggs/female/cluster).\r\nThe total number of eggs laid per female significantly ranged from 713.50 (JM-218) to 1043.78 (CHH-213). Genotype CHH-213 was followed by CHH-202, CHH-214 and PHM-1(1002.86, 946.88 and 906.85 eggs/female, respectively), but they did not differ significantly from each other. These were followed by JM-216, HMM-1018, JM-12 and JM-218 (853.93, 807.12, 760.31 and 713.50 eggs/female, respectively), but non-significant differences were observed among them. The present findings corroborates the findings of Santos et al. (2004) , as they also recorded an average of 1141 and 1106 eggs per female on maize cultivars BR-400 and BR PAMPA, respectively. The variability in the number of eggs laid per female may be due to the quantity and quality of food ingested and also the inherent natural fecundity of each individual female moth (Luginbill, 1928).\r\nData on incubation period given in Table 1 revealed that it differed significantly among the genotypes. Longest incubation period was observed on JM-218 (2.97 days), followed by JM-12, HMM-1018, JM-216 and PHM-1(2.86, 2.84, 2.76 and 2.69 days, respectively), but there was no significant difference among them. While, it was shortest on CHH-213 (2.43 days), but was at par with CHH-202 (2.56 days) and CHH-214 (2.61 days). The present findings are in conformity with those of Motezano et al. (2019); Rajisha et al. (2021) as they also recorded an average incubation period ranged from 2-3 days, similar to the values found in the present study as observed on the genotypes PHM-1 and CHH-214.\r\nData depicted in Table 2 exhibited that the mean egg hatching differed significantly among the genotypes. It was maximum on CHH-202 and CHH-213 (both recorded 97.23 %), followed by PHM-1 and CHH-214 (both registered 93.89%), but all were at par with each other. While, it was lowest on JM-218 (86.67%) but did not differ significantly with JM-12, JM-216 and HMM-1018 (89.45, 91.50 and 91.67%, respectively). In the present studies the mean egg hatching was slightly higher than the findings of Melo and Silva (1987) as they reported 94.7, 87.66 and 77.37 % on maize genotypes AG-28, P- 6872 and AG-64, respectively. The results of the present study indicates negative influence of the test genotype JM-218 on the egg hatching percentage, which may indicate slower.\r\nIt is evident from Table 2 that there was a significant difference in the longevity of the male moths among the genotypes. It was maximum on CHH-202 (10.43 days) followed by CHH-213 (10.40 days), but were at par with each other. These were followed by CHH-214 (9.90 days), but they did not differ significantly from PHM-1 (9.64 days). The next two genotypes, JM-216 and HMM-1018 were at par with each other and longevity observed were 9.46 and 9.20 days, respectively. While, it was minimum on JM-218 (8.64 days) but did not differ significantly with JM-12 (8.67 days).\r\nFemale longevity was significantly maximum on HMM-1018 (10.55 days), followed by CHH-213, JM-216, JM-218 and CHH-202 (10.48, 10.47, 10.45 and 10.44 days, respectively), but non- significant differences were observed among them. While it was minimum on JM-12 (10.20 days) and was stastically at par with CHH-214 (10.30 days) and PHM-1 (10.39 days). The studies indicate that the longevity of the female moths were more than the males in each of the tested genotypes.\r\n','Rashmi Vishwakarma, S.B. Das, Shrikant Patidar and Shraddha Mohanta (2022). Reproductive Performance of Fall Army Worm, Spodoptera frugiperda on some Maize Genotypes. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 14(3): 1334-1337.'),(5475,'136','Effects of various Mulches on quality of Pomegranate (Punica granatum L.) cv. Bhagwa under Central Dry Zone of Karnataka','Lokesha R., Deepak S.K., Suresh D. Ekabote, Shivakumar B.S., Shanwaz Ahmed and Girijesh G.K.','226 Effects of various Mulches on quality of Pomegranate _Punica granatum L._ cv. Bhagwa Lokesha R.pdf','',1,'The field experiment entitled \"Effects of various mulches on quality of Pomegranate (Punica granatum L.) cv. Bhagwa in central dry zone of Karnataka,\" was carried out in 2017–18. The experiment was set up using a Random Block Design and consisting of ten treatments and replicated three times. Nine different mulching treatments, including black polyethylene, newspaper, arecanut husk, coconut husk, sawdust, maize stover, leaf litter, peanut hulls, pebbles, and a control (without mulch), were employed. Among the different mulches Treatment 1 (Black polythene) mulch recorded the highest total soluble solids (TSS) (15.28°Brix), minimum acidity (0.54%), highest TSS: acid ratio (13.81%) and highest juice recovery (88.86%). In the same treatment (Black polythene) mulch, maximum total sugar (14.35%) and reducing sugar (13.72%) were found. The minimum TSS (13.17°Brix), TSS: Acid ratio (12.19%), total sugars (12.86%) and (11.36%) reducing sugars and highest acidity (0.66%) were recorded in control treatment.','Pomegranate, Mulching, Black polythene, Quality, Sugars, TSS','Based on present investigations, it was concluded that use of black polythene mulch (100 µ) was found to be better for plant growth and fruit production by maintaining soil moisture, temperature and control the weed growth and helps in better uptake of nutrients. These beneficial effects caused by black polythene mulch enhance the yield and quality characters of fruits of pomegranate cv. Bhagwa. Therefore, use of polythene mulch in pomegranate orchard could be recommended to the farmers for better yield to improve quality as well as to obtain higher economic returns.','INTRODUCTION \r\nPomegranate (Punica granatum L) is a deciduous shrub of genus Punica and belongs to family Lytheraceae, it is a popular table fruit in tropical and subtropical areas of the world (Abubakr et al., 2013). Additionally, it was raised in the mild environment of the Mediterranean area. This tree species may thrive on arid soils and marginal lands (Ozguuven et al., 2009; Sawarsan et al., 2011). Pomegranate fruit contains polyphenolic compounds, including anthocyaninis, flavonoids and punicalagins, which are the most important members of ellagitannis family (Gil et al., 2000). Punicalagin (PUN; 2, 3-hexahydroxydiphenoyl-gallagyl-d-glucose) is the most abundant polyphenol found in pomegranate (Punica granatum L.) husk (Yao et al., 2017). Polyphenols present in pomegranate such as gallic acid, ellagic acid, punicalagins and punicalins are the major chemical component, and pomegranate possessed the highest concentration of punicalagin α and β among the commonly consumed natural fruits (Fischer et al., 2011). Edible part of Pomegranate is the juicy outgrowth of seed called aril. Fruits with their sweet acidic taste are used mainly for the table purpose. Pomegranate is rich in carbohydrates, Vitamin C, calcium, iron, carotenoids and antioxidants. Among the neutraceutical aspects, pomegranate is a rich source of carbohydrate (14.5%), protein (1.6%), calcium (10 mg/100 g), phosphorus (70 mg/100 g), iron (0.3 mg/100 g) and vitamin C (65 mg/100 g), besides its calorific value of 65 Kcals/100 g. Hence, pomegranate is referred as ‘Elixir of life’ (Patil and Manjunath 2014).\r\nRecently, processed products like bottled juice, syrups and jelly made of fruits have high demand in both traditional and international markets. Normally the pomegranate is cultivated in arid to semiarid areas where the problem of water scarcity is observed, due to lack moisture there will be reduction in fruit size, yield, improper development of colour, more fruit cracking and less quality fruits were obtained which may fetches lower prize in the market causes loss for the growers. Pomegranate cultivation still faces a number of challenges, and improved crop management practices need to be developed (Rao and Subramanyam 2010). Therefore, the only option for increasing crop management through the creation of pertinent research is to increase crop output and quality. Along with other agriculture practices application of mulches in pomegranate orchard helps in changing the soil surface and influences the hydrothermal properties of the soil. Mulches affect the temperature and moisture content of the soil and directly influences on yield quality of the crops. During extreme weather conditions like transpiration fluctuation and regulation of soil temperature these mulches will protect the plants (Sharma and Geol 2017; Kumar et al., 2018; Liang et al., 2002). Soil temperature and moisture are very important for biological and chemical process in the soil that controls nutrient cycling (Donkvan et al., 2004). Hence, application of mulch helps in moisture conservation and reduction in evaporation, improves soil organic matter and these mulches avoids the nutrient loss through leaching and increase the nutrient availability and uptake of nutrients to the plants (Ngente et al., 2021; Sinkeviciene et al., 2009; Khalifa, 1994; Kristina et al., 2013). Two types of mulches are there organic and inorganic mulches, orgainic mulches includes paddy straw, wheat straw, sugarcane trash, sawdust, coconut and arecanut husk, leaf litter, maize stove, banana sheath, etc., and inorganic mulches like black polythene, silver polythene and white transparent polythene mulches. \r\nHence, to increase quality of pomegranate application of mulches (organic and inorganic) in an orchard can be a good idea to conserve the moisture, better nutrient uptake and maintain the soil temperature (Datta and Majumder 2009). Further, degraded mulch would increase the soil structure to hold more moisture. By considering the importance of mulches in fruit orchard the present investigation was undertaken with combination of both organic as well as inorganic mulches in pomegranate orchard. \r\nMATERIAL AND METHODS \r\nThe field experiment was conducted at T. Nagenalli, Chitradurga located in Central Dry Zone Karnataka (Zone-4). For this experiment variety used was Bhagwa, it is a promising variety of pomegranate suitable for dry regions. The variety is high in demand for export markets particularly in United Kingdom, Holland, other European and gulf countries etc. Fruits are attractive red in colour with smooth and glossy peel having bold and cherry red coloured arils, which are suitable for both table and processing purpose. It is highly suitable for long distant transport due to thick peel (Less weight loss, less possibility of damage due to bruises).\r\n\r\nThe experiment was laid out in Randomized Block Design consisting of ten treatments and three replications. The treatments includes both organic as well as inorganic mulches, like T1- Black polythene mulch (100 μ) as an inorganic mulch, T2- Newspaper (1 layer) T3- Arecanut husk (3\" thickness), T4- Coconut husk (3\" thickness), T5- Sawdust (3\" thickness), T6 - Maize Stover mulch (3\" thickness), T7 - Leaf litter (3\" thickness), T8- Peanut hulls (3\" thickness), T9 - Pebbles (1 layer) are the organic mulches and T10- without any mulch served as a control. Mulches were applied at plant basin immediately after the pruning i.e., first week of September 2017.\r\nThe organic mulches were collected locally and applied to base of three plants in a replication to a thickness of 3 inches. Inorganic mulch like black polythene of 100 microns (400 gauges) of width 1.5 m having dual colour black on lower side and respective colour on the upper side of the sheet were applied to the base of plant and edges were buried in the soil. Six hundred grams of polythene was used for three plant at the rate of 200 g of polythene for each plant and similarly newspaper (15-20g) and organic mulches like arecanut husk (6 kg/plant), coconut husk (5 kg/plant), sawdust (10 kg/plant), maize stover (5 kg/plant), leaf litter (6 kg/plant), peanut hulls (8 kg/plant) and pebbles (> 50 kg). Before mulching entire plant basin was weeded, cleaned and mulched after the pruning. Mulching to the base of the tree around one square meter area was done by using man power and implements. However, organic mulches pour into the soil two to three inches deep within the circle. \r\nPlants were supplied with recommended dose of fertilizers recommended by the University of Horticulture Sciences, Bagalkot, Karnataka (20 to 40 kg FYM/plant/year 400: 200: 200 kg/ha N:P2O5:K2O). Drip irrigation is the main irrigation practice followed in pomegranate orchard. The daily requirement water is based on climatic condition; it varies from month to month. However, the plants were supplied with 1776.5 liter of water per plant through drip irrigation at three days interval during the crop period. The rainfall received during the crop period was about 478 liter per square meter. Fruits were harvested at the second week of February month i.e., after five months of blooming. Observations like Total Soluble Solids (TSS°Brix) of the juice was determined by using digital refractometer and acidity was determined in terms of tartaric acid (Anon. 1960). Total sugar content of the pomegranate arils was estimated by anthrone reagent method, reducing sugars in the juice was determined by Dinitro-Salicylic acid (DNSA) method (Miller, 1972) and sugar to acid ratio was calculated by dividing the value of total sugars (%) with the value of titrable acidity (%). Non reducing was calculated by using the formula, (Per cent total sugar – per cent reducing sugar)  0. 95. Juice content of the aril was measured by crushing the arils of the fruit. \r\nIt is calculated by using the formula and expressed in percentage.\r\nRESULTS AND DISCUSSION\r\nThe results from the investigation reported that there was a significant difference among the different mulching material on quality attributes of pomegranate fruits cv. Bhagwa and presented in Table 1. \r\nThe results from the data showed that the highest level of total soluble solids (15.28 °Brix) was recorded in treatment black polythene (100 µ) which was statistically on par with pebbles mulch (14.58 °Brix), sawdust mulch (14.55 °Brix) and coconut husk mulch (14.37 °Brix). The lowest level of TSS was recorded in control (13.17 °Brix). Significant difference among the treatments with respect to acidity, lowest acidity (0.54%) was recorded in plants mulched with black polythene which was followed by pebbles mulch (0.57%) and peanut hulls mulch (0.58%). The highest acidity (0.66%) was recorded in control.\r\nThe increase in TSS and decrease in acidity might be due to the fact that black polythene mulch might have exerted positive influence in enhanced availability and uptake of nutrients, because of the increased temperature and microbial activity. Availability of nutrients to the plants may also be due to the conservation of moisture and suppressed weed growth. These factors would have increased the uptake of nutrients and translocation of carbohydrates leading to increased quality of different fruits. These results were accordance with the findings of Panigrahi et al. (2010) in mango; Samant et al. (2016) in guava and Pandey et al. (2016) in strawberry. The difference TSS might be explained in terms of higher moisture and nutrient availability, higher root activity including higher uptake of water and nutrients, high photosynthesis and higher enzymatic activity (Ngente et al., 2021 in strwaberry).\r\nThe juice content of aril was influenced by different mulches was found significant among the different mulching treatments. The highest juice content of the aril was recorded in the treatment black polythene mulch (88.86%) and on par with peanut hulls mulch (85.81%), while, it was lowest in control (79.88%) treatment. The increase in juice content of the pomegranate arils is might be due to the better effects caused by the black polythene viz., moisture conservation, temperature regulation, better activity of soil microflora and translocation of nutrients and carbohydrates. These results are conformity with the findings of Manoj et al. (2015) in kinnow and Pandey et al. (2016) in strawberry.\r\nThe results pertaining to total sugars (%), reducing sugars (%), non-reducing sugars (%) and sugar to acid ratio of pomegranate cv. Bhagwa fruits is presented in Table 2. Data revealed that there was a significant difference among the different mulching material on total sugars, reducing sugars and sugars to acid ratio while, non-reducing sugars were found non-significant.\r\nThe treatment black polythene (100 µ) recorded maximum total sugar (14.35%) which was statistically on par with pebbles mulch (14.08%) followed by peanut hulls (14.01%), sawdust (13.90%) and coconut husk (13.80%). The minimum total sugar was recorded in control (12.86%) (Table 2). The reducing sugars in fruits were significantly influenced by different types of mulches. The highest percentage of reducing sugars (13.72%) was recorded in treatment black polythene which was on par with pebbles mulch (13.22%), maize Stover mulch (13.16%) followed by peanut hulls mulch (13.10%), coconut husk mulch (13.02%), leaf litter (12.74%) and sawdust (12.70%), while, it was least in control (11.38%).\r\nAccumulation of maximum total sugars, reducing sugars and non-reducing sugars to arils might be due to greater utilization and assimilation of carbohydrates favoured by better hydrothermal regime of soil and higher absorption of nutrients, regulated temperature, suppressed weed growth and conservation of soil moisture as a result of which there was high ion concentration in the cell which increased the osmotic pressure at the cell solute and consequently opening of the stomata and further change in the proportion of starch to sugar might have increased considerably. The beneficial effects of black polythene mulch were noticed by Sharma et al. (2017) in pomegranate cv. Khandari Kabuli, Iqbal et al. (2015) in aonla and Pandey et al. (2016) in strawberry. The good fruit quality is related to higher moisture conservation in soil, free of weed, and maximum nutrient uptake under black polythene mulch treatment (Kumar et al., 2018 in strawberry).\r\nThere was non-significant difference between the mulching treatments with respect to non-reducing sugars in fruits (Table 2). However, the highest non-reducing sugars (1.48%) was recorded in control treatment and it was least in the treatment black polythene (0.62%). Sugar/acid ratio was significantly highest (13.81%) in plants mulched with black polythene which was statistically on par with pebbles mulch (13.52%), peanut hulls mulch (13.43%), coconut husk (13.17%) and sawdust (13.28%). The lowest sugar/acid ratio (12.19%) was recorded in control. The increase Sugar/acid ratio in the treatment black polythene mulch was due to increase in TSS content, reduction in acid content of the arils, higher soil moisture and nutrient availability, higher root activities including uptake of water, high photosynthesis, and other enzymatic activities. The similar results were obtained by Pandey et al. (2016) in strawberry and availability of nutrients to the plants increased under black polythene mulch due to the conservation of moisture and suppressed weed growth and these factors would have increased the uptake of nutrients and translocation of carbohydrates leading to increased quality of fruit crops (Ngente et al., 2021 in strwaberry). \r\n','Lokesha R., Deepak S.K. Suresh D. Ekabote, Shivakumar, B.S., Shanwaz Ahmed and Girijesh, G.K. (2022). Effects of various Mulches on quality of Pomegranate (Punica granatum L.) cv. Bhagwa under Central Dry Zone of Karnataka. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 14(3): 1338-1342.'),(5476,'136','Effect of Biofertilizers and Bioinoculants on Yield and Quality of Mango cv. Mallika','K.D. Rathod, M.J. Patel, S.J. Macwan and J.S. Patel','227 Effect of Biofertilizers and Bioinoculants on Yield and Quality of Mango cv. Mallika K.D. Rathod.pdf','',1,'The present study aimed to evaluate the effect of biofertilizers and bioinoculants on yield and quality of mango using factorial CRD with sixteen treatment combinations comprising two factors i.e., four biofertilizers viz., D1: Bio NPK Consortium (10 ml/tree), D2: VAM (10 g/tree), D3: Bio NPK Consortium (10 ml/tree) + VAM (10 g/tree) and D4: No biofertilizers which were given as drenching at pea stage and four bioinoculants viz., S1: Seaweed extract (0.2 %), S2: Novel organic liquid nutrient (2 %), S3: Jeevamrut (10 %) and S4: No bioinoculants which were sprayed in two frequencies at 2nd week of April and 1st week of May. Treatments were repeated thrice. Among biofertilizers, D3 recorded maximum fruit weight, fruit length, fruit diameter, number of fruits per tree, fruit yield, pulp weight, pulp: stone ratio, TSS, vitamin-A and total sugar during two years and pooled mean. Among bioinoculants, S2 showed higher fruit weight, fruit length, fruit diameter, number of fruits per tree, fruit yield, pulp weight, pulp: stone ratio, TSS, vitamin-A and total sugar in two years and pooled analysis. However, biofertilizers and bioinoculants showed non-significant effect on stone weight. Combine application of biofertilizers and bioinoculants (D3S2) significantly increased fruit yield and total sugar.','Biofertilizers, drenching, bioinoculants, foliar spray, mango','From the two years of field study, it can be concluded that drenching of biofertilizers like Bio NPK Consortium (10 ml/tree) + VAM (10 g/tree) at pea stage increased yield and quality of fruits. Similarly, spraying of novel organic liquid nutrient (2 %) twice at 2nd week of April and 1st week of May can enhanced yield and improved quality of fruits. Further, combined effect of biofertilizers like Bio NPK Consortium (10 ml/tree) + VAM (10 g/tree) at pea stage with spraying of novel organic liquid nutrient (2 %) per tree twice at 2nd week of April and 1st week of May increased yield and quality.','INTRODUCTION\r\nMango (Mangifera indica L.) is the most important commercial fruit crop of India. Mango is the national fruit of India and known as “King of Fruits”. It occupies the same position in India as it occupied by the apple in temperate climates and grapes in sub-tropical areas. Being a useful and delicious fruit, it is the part of culture and religion since the time immemorial. It is also good source of vitamin A and C. It is highly invigorative, laxative and diuretic (Bal, 2006). A single fruit can provide up to 40 % daily dietary fiber needs (Sing et al., 2005). In raw stage, fruit is used for extraction of tannin as well as for preparation of curries, pickles and chutneys. Ripe fruits are used for a table purpose as well as for preparation of squashes, juices, nectars, syrups, jams and jellies. India ranks first among world\'s mango producing countries accounting for 50 per cent of world mango production, but has a poor representation in international market.\r\nUse of biofertilizers and bioinoculants has assumed great importance for sustainable production and to improve the soil physical, chemical and biological properties. The increasing cost of the chemical fertilizers and their harmful effects on soil health became a major issue for the growers. Therefore, the cost effective, sustainable and alternative organic sources are required to fulfill the nutrient requirements. Biofertilizers are input containing microorganisms capable of mobilizing and solubilization of nutritive elements through biological processes. They are less expensive, ecofriendly and sustainable and do not require non-renewable source of energy during their production. They improve plant growth and fruit quality by producing plant hormones. The beneficial effect of biofertilizers are now well established in many fruit crops like mango (Ahmad et al., 2004). Biofertilizers provide strength against soil borne diseases and also help in composting and effective recycling of solid waste which results in improved soil health. Azotobacter and Azospirillum have good nitrogen fixation ability. Bio NPK Consortium contains five strains of agriculturally beneficial microorganism (two nitrogen fixer, two phosphate solubilizers and one potash mobilizer) is the one-time solution for all the macronutrients (N, P, K) requirement of crops. Anubhav Bio NPK Consortium contains Azotobacter chroococcum (ABA-1), Azospirillum lipoferum (ASA-1), Bacillus coagulans and two Bacillus spp. This formulation also provides additional benefits of protecting plant from phytopathogenic fungi and nematodes. According to Aal et al. (2020) in aonla and Patel (2020) in mango, application of Bio NPK Consortium improves growth, yield and quality attributes. VAM (Vesicular Arbuscular mycorrhiza) has been reported to increase the uptake of phosphorus. It increases the uptake of Zn, Cu, Mn and Fe. Scientific evidences have also suggested that VAM biofertilizer enhanced growth, yield and quality parameters of fruit crops (Singh et al. (2020) in guava and Raut et al. (2020) in custard apple).\r\nFoliar application of bioinoculants has also become an alternative approach to minimize the chemical loads on crop. Several growth regulating bioinoculants like seaweed extract, novel organic liquid nutrient and jeevamrut have potential in increased growth and development of fruit crops. Seaweed extract had higher amounts of macro nutrients, trace elements, organic substances like amino acids, antioxidant, organic acid and plant growth regulators such as auxin, cytokine in and gibberellins are applied to improved nutritional status, vegetative growth, fruit quality and yield in plants (Crouch et al., 1992). Novel organic liquid nutrient suitable for foliar and soil application. Sap obtained from banana pseudostem contains ample amount of essential nutrient and plant growth hormone (Cytokinin and GA3) for growth and development of crops. Jeevamrut contains enormous amount of microbial load which multiply and act as soil tonic. It promotes immense biological activity in soil and enhance nutrient availability to crop (Gore and Sreenivasa 2011). Solanki et al. (2020) in peach and Sahana et al. (2020) in strawberry recorded increased yield and quality attributed with the application of Jeevamrut. The biofertilizers and bioinoculants have beneficial effect on yield and quality of fruit crops. Keeping all these in mind, a study on effect of biofertilizers and bioinoculants on yield and quality of mango cv. Mallika was conducted.\r\nMATERIALS AND METHODS\r\nExperimental site: An experiment was conducted during the year 2019-20 and 2020-21 on twenty-one years old uniform size mango trees planted 8.0 × 8.0 m at Horticultural Research Farm, Department of Horticulture, B. A. College of Agriculture, Anand Agricultural University, Anand, Gujarat, India which is situated geographically at 22o35\' North latitude and 72o56\' East longitude with an altitude of about 45.1 m above the mean sea level. According to agro-climatic conditions of Gujarat state, Anand falls under ‘Middle Gujarat Agroclimatic Zone-III’. The soil of the experimental site was loamy sand, locally known as “Goradu” having pH 7.14, EC 0.23 dSm-1 and 0.46 % organic C. The available N, P and K of the field soil were 320.00, 34.35 and 442.10 kg ha-1, respectively.\r\nExperimental design and treatments: The experimental design was CRD with factorial concept with three repetitions. The recommended dose of fertilizers i.e., 100 kg FYM with 750:160:750 kg NPK ha-1 were applied. Full dose of FYM, phosphorus, potash and half dose of nitrogen were given after harvest of the crop i.e., June. Remaining half dose of nitrogen was given at pea stage i.e., March. One tree was selected per treatment and total sixteen treatment combinations were carried out.\r\nTreatment details are as under:\r\nBiofertilizers was given in the ring 1.5 m apart from the tree trunk by drenching and incorporation with well decomposed FYM, then after the week half dose of nitrogen was given before pea stage i.e., 1st week of March. Spraying of bioinoculants was applied to the trees as a preharvest spray in two frequencies in the month of 2nd week of April and 1st week of May as per treatments on trees by foot sprayer.\r\nMature uniform size fresh mango fruits were harvested and kept in the laboratory. The five mature fruits per treatment were randomly selected and all observations regarding physical and biochemical parameters of fruits were recorded under ambient storage condition. Total Soluble Solids (TSS) in °Brix of fruits was recorded by using hand refractometer. Sugar and Vitamin-A contents of the fruits were determined using method described by Ranganna (1979); Mishra and Gupta (1998), respectively. Data for individual years were analyzed and in order to study the average effect of different treatments over the years, the pooled analysis was also carried out as suggested by Gomez and Gomez (1976).\r\n\r\nRESULTS AND DISCUSSION\r\nEffect of biofertilizers on yield parameters of mango. The drenching of biofertilizers significantly influenced the yield parameters of mango (Table 1 and 2). The yield parameters in terms of maximum fruit weight (353.47, 337.15 and 345.31 g), fruit length (13.67, 13.32 and 13.50 cm), fruit diameter (8.33, 8.11 and 8.22 cm), number of fruits per tree (212.27, 197.63 and 204.95), fruit yield (88.04, 83.45 and 85.75 kg/tree & 13.73, 13.02 and 13.38 t/ha), pulp weight (237.38, 231.67 and 234.52 g) and pulp: stone ratio (5.77, 5.36 and 5.56) were noted with drenching of Bio NPK Consortium 10 ml/tree + VAM 10 g/tree during the year 2019-20, 2020-21 and in pooled data, respectively. The drenching of biofertilizers failed to influence any significant effect on stone weight of mango fruit.\r\nIt might be due to biofertilizers (Bio NPK Consortium + VAM) may supply optimum plant nutrients and growth hormones at desired amount during entire period of fruit growth, ultimately increases higher rate of photosynthesis resulted in more accumulation of dry matter responsible for more fruit weight and diameter of mango fruit. Biofertilizer is considered as a significant source of different micronutrients which play an important role in regulation of length of fruit by enhancing metabolic activities in plant cells (Sharma et al., 2013). Due to the supply of all the nutrients in adequate right from starting of the experiment to the harvesting of the crop, which induced more retention of fruits by supply of photosynthates at critical requirement stage and that resulted into the higher number of fruits per tree and increased fruit yield. Biofertilizers have direct relation in N fixation, solubilizing phosphorus, production of phytohormone which increased the uptake of nutrients that ultimately increases pulp: stone ratio of mango fruits. These observations are in agreement with the Aal et al. (2020) in aonla, Patel (2020) in mango, Patel et al. (2017) in sapota and Nurbhanej et al. (2016) in acid lime.\r\nEffect of bioinoculants on yield parameters of mango. The spraying of bioinoculants significantly influenced on the yield parameters of mango (Table 1 and 2). Maximum fruit weight was recorded (335.56 g) in pooled data, fruit length (13.08, 12.79 and 12.93 cm), fruit diameter (7.99, 7.82 and 7.90 cm), number of fruits per tree (204.83, 192.33 and 198.58), fruit yield (84.94, 80.30 and 82.62 kg/tree & 13.25, 12.53 and 12.89 t/ha), pulp weight (224.45, 217.32 and 220.88 g) and pulp: stone ratio (5.49, 5.05 and 5.27) during the year 2019-20, 2020-21 and pooled mean, respectively with spraying of novel organic liquid nutrient 2 %. The spraying of bioinoculants failed to influence any significant effect on stone weight of mango.\r\nNovel organic liquid nutrient provides higher carbohydrate accumulation in plant at early stage of growth as a resulted in better nutrient supply, which causes an increased in fruit size and there by increased the fruit diameter, length and fruit weight (Patel et al., 2018). Similar type of results was also reported by Anon. (2012) in mango. It has also a good amount of K and the role of K in reducing the fruit drop is expected due to its catalytic effect in biochemical reactions occurring in physiological processes of the plant (Baiea et al., 2015) and also responsible for enhancement of auxin in the plant which is known to reduce fruit drop and increase the fruit retention by delaying the formation of abscission layer (Nason and Mc Elroy, 1963). These results are in close conformity with the findings of Parmar et al. (2018) in papaya, Rathod et al. (2017) in pomegranate.\r\nInteraction effect of biofertilizers and bioinoculants on yield parameters of mango. Maximum fruit yield (95.35 kg/tree & 14.87 t/ha) in pooled result (Fig. 1) was observed with combined application of drenching with biofertilizers like Bio NPK Consortium (10 ml/tree) + VAM (10 g/tree) and spraying with bioinoculants viz., Novel organic liquid nutrient (2 %). Increased fruit yield is might be due to the combine effect of drenching with biofertilizers (Bio NPK Consortium + VAM) at critical stage viz., pea stage and spraying with bioinoculant (Novel organic liquid nutrient) that provides essential macro nutrient (N, P and K) in adequate quantity, VAM may increases uptake of phosphorus and other micronutrients (Zn, Cu, Mn, Fe) as well as spraying with novel organic liquid nutrient act as a growth stimulant which have regulatory role in more fruit retention upto harvest period ultimately increases fruit yield. This finding is supported by Yadav et al. (2011); Patel (2020) in mango.\r\nEffect of biofertilizers on quality parameters of mango. Drenching with biofertilizers treatment significantly affected the quality parameters of mango (Table 3). Maximum total soluble solids (24.36, 23.42 and 23.89 °Brix), vitamin-A (1.37, 1.44 and 1.41 mg/100 g) and total sugar (19.47, 19.18 and 19.33 %) was noted in treatment of Bio NPK Consortium 10 ml/tree + VAM 10 g/tree during the year 2019-20, 2020-21 and in pooled data, respectively.\r\nAn increase in TSS contents with biofertilizers application may be attributed due to the quick metabolic transformation of starch and pectin into soluble compounds and rapid translocation of sugars from leaves to the developing fruits, conversion of complex polysaccharides into simple sugars. Proper uptake may lead to increase in pigment synthesis, resulting higher carotenoids in mango fruits. Application of Bio NPK Consortium along with VAM might have performed regulatory role on absorption of nutrients and translocation of metabolites especially carbohydrates reserve in roots and stem which hydrolyzed into sugar during ripening which improve the sugar content of fruits. These findings are in agreement with the result of Dutta et al. (2016) in mango, Lodaya and Masu (2019) in guava, Sharma et al. (2016); Nehate and Jadav (2019) in mango.\r\nEffect of bioinoculants on quality parameters of mango. Bioinoculants treatment showed significant result for quality parameters (Table 3). Among the different bioinoculants treatment maximum total soluble solids (23.48, 22.60 and 23.04 °Brix), vitamin-A (1.34, 1.41 and 1.38 mg/100 g) and total sugar (19.03, 18.75 and 18.89 %) was observed in spraying with novel organic liquid nutrient 2 % in the years 2019-20, 2020-21 and pooled, respectively.\r\nNovel organic liquid nutrient contains macro, micro elements and plant growth regulators which might helped in improving the fruit quality of fruit (Modi et al. 2019). The fermented novel organic liquid nutrient contains higher amount of potassium (Mahalakshmi and Naveena 2016). The role of potassium in improvement of fruit quality is well documented (Asaduzzaman and Asao, 2018). Increased in TSS and sugar content might be due to respirational demand and adequate supply of nutrients, synthesis of invertase and starch splitting enzymes (Patel et al., 2018). Adequate availability of macro and micro nutrients that may increases the pigment synthesis which resulted in high vitamin-A content of mango fruits chemical compositions like TSS and total sugar were more in Novel organic liquid nutrient treatment. Similar results were obtained by Anon. (2012) in mango and Patel et al. (2018) also in mango.\r\nInteraction effect of biofertilizers and bioinoculants on quality parameters of mango. Combine treatment i.e., drenching of biofertilizers like Bio NPK Consortium (10 ml/tree) + VAM (10 g/tree) and spraying with Novel organic liquid nutrient 2 % (Table 4) resulted in maximum total sugar (20.60, 20.28 and 20.44 %) in both the years and pooled data, respectively. Combine application of biofertilizers and bioinoculants increases the metabolic activity and convert more sugar by synthesis of starch splitting enzymes which increased sugar content of fruits. These findings are in agreement with the result of Patel et al. (2018) in mango, Lodaya and Masu (2019) in guava and Aal et al. (2020) in aonla.\r\n \r\n','K.D. Rathod, M.J. Patel, S.J. Macwan and J.S. Patel (2022). Effect of Biofertilizers and Bioinoculants on Yield and Quality of Mango cv. Mallika. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 14(3): 1343-1349.'),(5477,'136','Etiology and Management of Cercospora Fruit and Leaf Spot Disease of Pomegranate through Fungicides and Systemic acquired Resistance Inducers','Mukesh, Satish Kumar Sharma and A. Sharma','228 Etiology and Management of Cercospora Fruit and Leaf Spot Disease of Pomegranate through Fungicides and Systemic acquired Resistance Inducers Mukesh.pdf','',1,'Cercospora leaf and fruit spot is a serious disease of pomegranate plant during warm and humid weather condition resulting deterioration of fruit quality and lesser fruit yield to growers. Its manifestation includes dark reddish brown to almost black with diffused yellow halo, circular to angular (1-4mm) spots on leaves and 1-12mm conspicuous dark brown, circular to unequal irregular blotches on fruits which lower the yield by interfering with photosynthetic activity and reduces the market value of the pomegranate fruit. The pathogen Cercospora punicae was identified to be associated with the disease and isolated on PDA (Potato Dextrose Agar) medium. The rapid growth of the fungus was observed on GPLDA (Green Pomegranate Leaf Decoction Agar) medium, 90 mm mycelial growth within 18 days of incubation at temperature 25°C and pH 6.0. This was later on used as a specific medium for in-vitro studies. The surface of the colonies in contact with the medium was olivaceous in colour, the exposed surface was smoky and mycelium was densely compacted except at the exposed surface. The present investigations on management included evaluation of various systemic, non systemic fungicides and Systemic acquired resistance (SAR) inducers against the disease. Propiconazole, difenoconazole and Tebuconazole completetly inhibited the mycelial growth of C. punicae at 50, 100 and 150 ppm under in- vitro condition. Four foliar sprays at 15 days intervals of propiconazole resulted in 82.92 and 83.96 percent disease control on leaves and fruit respectively. Its application increased fruit yield and reduces the losses up to 39 percent. Dipotassium hydrogen phosphate anhydrous was found most effective and reduced the disease incidence to 52.69 per cent over control amongst of six SAR inducers evaluated in pot culture conditions.','Cercospora punicae, etiology, management, fungicides, SAR, chemicals','The findings of this study showed that the concentrations of the fungicides studied, as well as their interactions, differed significantly. At low concentrations, systemic fungicides were found to be more effective than non-systemic fungicides. SAR inducers have the potential to reduce the use of toxic chemicals in agriculture by directly activating defense mechanisms, resulting in stronger elicitation of defenses and subsequent pathogen attack. SAR inducers have emerged as an alternative, non-conventional, non-biocidal, and eco-friendly approach for plant protection and thus for sustainable agriculture.','INTRODUCTION\r\nThe Cercospora leaf and fruit spot disease of pomegranate plant considered minor importance disease, yet the changing climatic scenario resulted in erratic rainfall as a result the incidence and severity of disease is increasing every year. Cercospora punicae P. Henn was first recorded associated with the diseases in Japan by Hennings in 1906 (Chupp, 1954) and was reported from India by various researchers (Agarwal and Hasija 1964; Thirumalachar and Chupp 1948).\r\nThe Cercospora leaf and fruit spot disease caused by Cercospora punicae was most prominent among various spot pathogens in Solan, Shimla and Sirmaur district during year 2016-17. Khosla and Bhardwaj (2013) recorded 1.1 to 17.31 per cent incidence of fruit and leaf spot disease (Cercospora punicae and Alternaria sp.) in pomegranate growing area of Himachal Pradesh. The disease appears every year during rainy season in wild pomegranate, thereby forcing the growers to harvest the immature fruits resulting in production of poor quality “Anardana” after drying, fetching less price in market, affecting income and livelihood of resource striven farmers of Himachal Pradesh. Symptoms of the disease tend to be circular to angular, dark reddish brown to almost black with diffused yellow halo on leaves and prominent dark brown, circular blotches which initially appear unequal sizes on fruit (Fig. 1). In extreme infection, interfering with growth as a result of reduced production of photosynthates resulting in less production of fruit. The fungus survives as tiny black fungal tissue known as stromata in old affected leaves and fruits in the soil. Spores also survive in infected debris for at least one season (Wolf, 1927).\r\nFungicides can provides successful management of ongoing leaf spot pathogen infection in field through directly killing of spore and inhibiting the metabolic activities diseases. Triazole group of fungicides inhibit ergo-sterol biosynthesis of plant pathogenic fungus which prevent cell wall formation and reduces the colonization of the pathogen. Induced resistance is a host response, systemic acquired resistance (SAR) can be induced by treatment with a variety of agents, including necrotizing pathogens and certain chemicals such as Potassium oxalate (K2C2O4), ß-Amino -butyric acid (BABA) C4H9NO2, Salicylic acid (C7H6O3) and Di Potassium hydrogen phosphate (K2HPO4) (Walters et al., 2013). Induction of resistance can lead to the direct activation of defenses resulting in stronger elicitation of defenses and following pathogen attack. (Faize and Faize 2018). The information on the use of latest fungicides especially EBIs and systemic resistance inducers has not been experimented so far in case of pomegranate. Therefore, in the present study fungicides were evaluated for best for management of the disease in field condition to reduce losses of the pomegranate farmer, systemic acquired resistance (SAR) inducers play vital role in diseases management, activates the plant defense mechanisms and it can be alternative to fungicide for eco-friendly management of the disease in future. \r\nMATERIAL AND METHODS\r\nPeriodic surveys for leaf and fruit spot disease were conducted for two consecutive year i.e. 2016 and 2017 both in wild and cultivated pomegranate habitats in Solan, Sirmaur and Shimla districts of Himachal Pradesh during July to October. The most prominent spot were taken for isolation which yielded Cercospora punicae and further studies its etiology. Infected leaves and fruits showing typical symptoms of this disease were selected for isolation using tissue isolation technique on PDA medium by following the incubation of 18 days at 25±1 ºC. Identification was done as per morphological characters given in Illustrated Genera of Imperfect Fungi and as described by Wolf (1927). The identity of the culture was also got confirmed from NRC, Pomegranate Sholapur, Maharashtra. The growth was very slow on the PDA and found very quickly on GPLDA. Therefore, five different concentrations (5; 10; 15; 20; 25%) of Green Pomegranate Leaf Extract in Potato Dextrose Agar were evaluated for standardization of optimum concentration of leaf extract for getting maximum growth of Cercospora punicae in minimum possible time. For recording disease incidence/ severity on leaves 5-7 leaves were plucked from each plant at random from N-S and E-W directions. The disease severity was recorded by using 0-5 and 0-6 scale on leaf and fruit. Per cent disease incidence and severity on leaves and fruits was calculated by following formulae (Mckinney, 1923).\r\n \r\n \r\n \r\n\r\n \r\nEight systemic and non systemic fungicides were tested under in vitro to study the inhibitory effect of fungicides on the mycelial growth of C. punicae by following poisoned food technique as described by Falck (1907). Growth inhibition (%) in each treatment was calculated as described by Vincent (1927)\r\n \r\nWhere,\r\nI = Per cent mycelial inhibition\r\nC = Diametric mycelial growth in control (mm)\r\nT = Diametric mycelial growth in treatment (mm)\r\nField experiment was conducted on six year old pomegranate plants during 2016 and 2017 at the Model Farm of the University. The pomegranate variety Kandhari Kabuli plants planted at 4×2m spacing, with plant architecture trained to multi-stem were selected for laying out experiment. Systemic and non systemic fungicides were evaluated at the experimental farm where disease outbreak was very high during previous years. The fungicidal solution spray was started with the first initiation of disease symptom and four sprays were given at fortnightly intervals in July-August month. The control plants were sprayed with water to create similar microclimate for the occurrence and progress of the disease. In randomized block design, each treatment was replicated thrice (RBD). The observations were recorded on disease incidence and severity as per the procedure described in Table 2. The data on number of fruits and the yield were recorded at harvesting in September 2016 and 2017.\r\nTo study the efficacy of systemic acquired resistance (SAR) or abiotic resistance inducers an experiment was conducted in pots. Inoculation was performed according to Callahan et al. (1999). Mycelial suspension was sprayed on both sides of pomegranate leaves on the plants growing in pots (Fig. 2). The observations on appearance of leaf spots were recorded and re-isolation as per procedure described for isolation was taken from the infected tissue and culture obtained was compared with the original. SAR inducer foliar spray was applied on plants grown in pots after emergence of symptoms and repeated once after first 15 days of spraying. To maintain high humidity, the plants were covered with polythene sheet and sprayed with water. In addition, separate control plants were maintained with only water spray. The observations were taken for the appearance and development of symptoms and rated after one month after inoculation based on scale given by Raju et al. (2011). The data obtained from laboratory and field experiments were subjected to statistical analysis. The differences exhibited by treatments in various experiments were tested for their significance using standard statistical procedures as described by Gomez and Gomez (1984). The critical difference (CD) was calculated in each experiment to establish the least significant difference amongst the treatments.\r\nRESULTS AND DISCUSSION \r\nThe disease symptoms were recorded both on leaves and fruits and the leaf spots were sub circular to irregular, 1-4 mm dia. at first brown and grey to pale tan and eventually brown to dark brown at the margin with diffused yellow halo (Fig. 1). These lesions coalesced less frequently. The early infected leaves turned pale green and dropped off prematurely forming a layer of dropped leaves underneath the tree on the ground. During periods of high relative humidity the lower surface of lesions is covered with dense aggregates of conidiophores and conidia which in mass appear brown. The conidial fructifications appear on the upper surface less commonly and less in abundance. \r\nThe affected fruits develop small irregular black spots, which later coalesce into large spots measuring 1–12 mm dia. These are circular in outline but due to unequal radial growth soon become irregular in shape becoming unequal irregular blotches covered a considerable proportion of the surface of the fruit which turned light to dark brown in colour (Fig. 1). Similar kind of symptoms on leaves had been observed by (Chupp, 1954) who reported that such leaf spots were circular to somewhat angular, dark reddish brown to almost black with a diffused yellow halo and size varied from 0.5 to 5mm in dia.\r\nFungus grew very slow on Potato Dextrose Agar where as it produced uniform dense colonies on Green Pomegranate Leaf Decoction Agar Medium. Out of five different media evaluated maximum radial growth of C. punicae was recorded on Green Pomegranate Leaf Decoction Agar media 5% (57.50 mm), followed by V8 Juice Agar (21.50 mm) and Oat Meal Agar (18.87 mm). The surface of the colonies in contact with the medium was olivaceous in colour and the exposed surface was smoky (Fig. 1). The mycelium was densely compacted except at the exposed surface. Hyphae branched, 2–3 µm wide, septate, constricted at the septa, distance between septa 6–10 µm. The hypha of the fungus was light brown in colour, septate and unbranched under compound microscope at 40X. The size of hyphae 2–9 µm wide, septate, constricted at the septa, distance between septa 5–26 µm, brownish or sub hyaline, wall 0.3–1 µm wide and smooth. Conidia were not formed in culture. \r\nThe conidiophores developed in stromata which were in dense fascicles, septate and medium dark in colour. Bakhshi et al. (2014) observed culture surface of C. punicae folded, erumpent with moderate aerial mycelium and irregular lobate margins and colour dark olivaceous grey on the surface, dark iron-grey underneath, which corraborate with the present findings and culture behavior observed. \r\nIn the present investigation, systemic and non systemic fungicides were tested at three concentrations under in vitro conditions for their efficacy against Cercospora punicae and inhibition of mycelial growth was recorded. Amongst the five systemic fungicides tested treatment with propiconazole, difenoconazole and tebuconazole recorded complete inhibition of Cercospora punicae at all the three concentrations (50, 100 and 150 ppm) followed by 93.39 per cent mean inhibition in treatment with hexaconazole (Fig. 3). The least mean inhibition of mycelial growth among the systemic fungicides was observed in treatment with carbendazim (81.97%) at 100 ppm concentration as illustrated in Table 1. Among the non-systemic fungicides maximum mean mycelial growth inhibition (91.17 per cent) was recorded in treatment with Bordeaux mixture at all the three concentrations (250, 500, and 1000ppm) tested, followed by 86.23 per cent inhibition in captan (Fig. 4). Similarly, efficacy of systemic and non systemic fungicide has also been reported by various workers and found effective against different Cercospora spp under in vitro condition (Khan et al., 2014; Secor et al., 2010; Dam and Sreedhar 2019). \r\nThe data on management of disease during 2016 and 2017 were recorded on disease incidence on fruits, disease severity on the leaves, yield of disease free fruits on per plant basis. The data obtained during both the years were subjected to pooled analysis (Table 2) and revealed that all the treatments significantly reduced the leaf and fruit spot incidence as compared to control. The data indicated that overall minimum average disease incidence on fruits (3.22%) and disease severity on leaves (3.23%) of Cercospora leaf and fruit spot was observed in plant treated with propiconazole (0.05%) with maximum control of disease severity (83.96%) on leaves and disease incidence (82.92%) on fruits. It was followed by treatment with tebuconazole (0.05%) with 77.21 per cent and 81.57 per cent disease control on fruits and leaves, respectively. Overall minimum average disease control of on fruits (52.96%) and leaves (49.70%) was observed on the plant treated with captan. The maximum fruit yield (12.83 kg/ plant) for both the years was recorded in plants treated with propiconazole (0.05%) followed by tebuconazole (0.05%) with 12.33 kg fruit yield per plant, respectively which resulted in 39.30 per cent increase in yield in case of plant treated with propiconazole and 33.87 per cent increase in yield in case of tebuconazole over control.\r\nThe systemic acquired resistance (SAR) or abiotic resistance inducers were evaluated under pot culture conditions. It is evident from the data (Table 3) that all the treatments were effective in reducing the disease incidence as compared to control. However, treatment of Dipotassium hydrogen phosphate was found most effective and reducing the disease incidence to 52.69 per cent over control which was followed by treatment with ß-amino-butyric acid and salicylic acid with 46.87 and 43.77 per cent disease reduction, respectively. Foliar spray of potassium oxalate and calcium carbonate were least effective against the disease with 25.40 and 25.45 per cent reduction in disease incidence over control, respectively. The findings were consistent with the findings of Morsy et al. (2022), who discovered that combining salicylic acid treatment with fungicides (methyl benzimidazole carbamate (MBC), quinone outside inhibitor (QoI), and demethylation inhibitor (DMI) resulted in a significant reduction of sugar beet leaf spot disease (Cercospora beticola), When combined with salicylic acid, the efficacy of epoxiconazole (EPO) and propiconazole increased to 77.5-79.1% and 77.0-78.2% which was 67.2-69.1% and 63.4-63.6% when used alone. Carbendazim alone was 47.5-45.1% effective but the efficacy increased to 67.1% when mixed with SA.\r\n','Mukesh, Satish Kumar Sharma and A. Sharma (2022). Etiology and Management of Cercospora Fruit and Leaf Spot Disease of Pomegranate through Fungicides and Systemic acquired Resistance Inducers. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 14(3): 1350-1356.'),(5478,'136','Role of Substrate Media in Growth and Development of Selected Microgreens','Parul Pathania, Viveka Katoch, Anupama Sandal and Neelam Sharma','229 Role of Substrate Media in Growth and Development of Selected Microgreens Parul Pathania.pdf','',1,'Microgreens have emerged as a new concept of health building and nutritious functional foods. The present study on ten microgreens varieties belonging to Brassicaceae family and leafy salads aimed to study the effect of media on the growth related traits of microgreens and detailed the interaction between media and genotypes impacting visual quality of microgreens. Germination percentage was checked to determine the growth pattern of microgreens, revealing that turnip and kale microgreens germinated fastest, with a more uniform plant stand and also had better morphological quality in comparison with lettuce and broccoli microgreens which had more seedling length and yield respectively. Pusa Swarnima (turnip) and local kale emerged as the best microgreens to be grown in the media containing mixture of cocopeat, vermiculite and perlite in the ratio of 3:1:1, which performed significantly better than the same microgreens grown in vermicompost media. To conclude, media played an imperative role in the growth and development of microgreens and any alterations to the substrate will significantly affect not only the morphological characters but also the nutritional composition of microgreens. ','Micro-scale, growth, media; seedling, health, nutrition','Microgreens are the super foods of the future. They are the healthiest, fully- organic and completely fresh dietary supplements available in the markets, that target heath conscious consumers as well as small scale growers and agricultural entrepreneurs. The popularity of microgreens is one the rise owing to their easy spatial and temporal management when compared to the nutrition that they offer. Selection of media exerts a significant impact on the growth and development of microgreens, as do the different genotypes, also affecting their nutrient profile. Thus, specific microgreens grown in specific media for the said time intervals may serve as a nutrient packed dietary food for people fighting deficiency diseases, chronic illness or for their overall health and well being as protective foods. Many researches are being undertaken on this novel food and various recommendations being made for the adequate demand and supply of microgreens to consumers and popularizing them among masses. Substrate biofortification is a new concept in this light for enhancing the visual quality and biochemical profile of the microgreens and can improve the overall quality of microgreens when incorporated effectively. ','INTRODUCTION \r\nVegetables are vital dietary ingredients, and are important sources of carbohydrates, proteins, minerals, vitamins, dietary fibres and various bioactive compounds like antioxidants, making them effective protective foods (Sharma et al., 2021). Due to the buzzing lifestyle and hustled behavior of the 21st century, dietary supplements, which are imperative for combating certain deficiency diseases and chronic health problems, may be absorbed poorly, because of which people have started resorting to chemical derivatives rather than the natural sources of these supplements (Kader et al., 2000). In this light, the idea of raising microgreens to meet all the dietary and nutritional requirements of the people and supplementing the already existing staple diet with this nutrient boost can be very well explored. \r\nMicrogreens are an innovative concept in the field of micro-scale horticulture (Elbert, 2012). These are emerging foods consisting of young edible vegetables and herbs, which are harvested when cotyledonary leaves have fully developed and the first true leaves have emerged, which is usually 7–21 days after germination (Allegretta et al., 2019). Microgreen production is on the rise among homemade food preparations and ready-to-eat market and the dietary supplements industry (Galieni et al., 2020). Microgreens may contain 4-40 times the amount of nutritional compounds as the mature vegetable plant would produce. Microgreens are valuable nutritional supplement to human diet as they require very little space, growth-time and chemical inputs and offer a lucrative solution to health-conscious consumers. Microgreens are considered as “Functional foods” which means the food products that possess particular health promoting or disease preventing properties that are additional to their normal nutritional values (Janovska et al., 2010). \r\nResearchers have provided a lot of information and reviews on the nutritional traits of microgreens, because they are affected by different cultivars or landraces, plant growth stages and environmental conditions (Kyriacou et al., 2016). All of these compositionally-positive aspects are coupled with a relatively easy production process, as they only need water, light, and a substrate to grow on (Marchioni et al., 2021). They can be grown in greenhouses, high tunnels, shade structures or indoors. Microgreens are generally grown in a standard, sterile, loose, soil, and many mixes have been used successfully with peat, vermiculite, perlite, and bark (Kou et al., 2013). Microgreens have a short growing cycle and may be produced hydroponically or semi-hydroponically (Tamilselvi and Arumugam 2018). The present study aims to apprehend the relationship of various growth and developmental traits of microgreens with the media in which they grow.\r\nMATERIALS AND METHODS\r\nThe present investigation was carried out in the Department of Seed Science and Technology as well as the Department of Vegetable Science and Floriculture, College of Agriculture, Chaudhary Sarwan Kumar Himachal Pradesh Krishi Vishvavidyalaya, Palampur during March- April, 2021.\r\nTechnical programme of work. All the vegetable microgreens viz; kale, broccoli, lettuce and turnip were raised in trays (45cm × 35cm × 7.5cm) using mixture of cocopeat, vermiculte and perlite as the first growing media and vermicompost as the second growing media. Seeds were broadcasted at the rate of 10g seed/tray. Shallow sowing of the seeds was done and the trays were watered daily for maintaining the optimum moisture level in the substrates. The experiment was conducted in completely randomized design (CRD) and the effect of interaction of different media and varieties on various growth and developmental traits of microgreens were studied. Table 1 describes the the source of various crop varieties which were used during the course of research work.\r\nBefore sowing the seeds into trays with the mentioned growth media, the germination percentage was calculated using top of paper method as per the procedure given by the International Seed Testing Association (Anonymous, 2019), where the seeds were germinated on the top of one layer paper enclosed in transparent petri dishes, with the addition of appropriate quantity of water in the beginning of the test. These petri plates were then kept in the germinator at 20±1°C. Readings were taken twice (4 DAS and 8 DAS). Germination % age was calculated using the formula:\r\nGermination (%) = 100 × (No. of normal seedlings)/ (No. of seeds kept for germination)\r\nThe root length, shoot length, leaf length and leaf breadth were measured using centimeter scale. 100 seedling weight was computed using digital electronic balance and yield was calculated in kilograms per metre square of the area of trays in which microgreens were sown. All data was taken on four harvest intervals, i.e., 7 DAS, 14 DAS, 21 DAS and 28 DAS in replications of three and displayed as averages, with a clear distinction between the two media used for cultivating the microgreens under study. \r\nStatistical analysis. All data obtained was analysed based on simple ANOVA as three factor factorial and comparison of CDs was done using the software OPSTAT (Sheoran et al., 1998).\r\nRESULTS AND DISCUSSIONS\r\nSeeds of turnip varieties Pusa Swarnima and Pusa Chandrima had the highest germination percentage (99%), followed by Pusa Kale- 64 and local kale varieties of kale (98%) and then Palam Samridhi (97%), Palam Vichitra (96%) and Palam Kanchan (96%) varieties of broccoli seeds. Similar observations were made in Indian mustard varieties, cotton, sunflower and peralmillet (Rai et al., 2017; Chritiansen and Rowland 1981; Pallavi et al., 2003; Gupta et al., 2005). Lettuce seeds germinated the slowest, with the Great Lakes variety having 30% germination percentage. Results in a study on six different lettuce varieties also revealed low germination percentages like in the present research (Penaloza et al., 2005).From Fig. 1, it was inferred that for all the morphological traits for microgreens under study, the best media was cocopeat, vermiculite and perlite mixed in the ratio of 3:1:1 (media 1), owing to its greater porosity which meant higher root and shoot length, thus greater seedling height and improved visual characters. A significant impact of growth media has been reported on the growth characteristics of microgreens in literature (Di Gioia et al., 2017). A similar trend in mustard, leaf mustard, radish and cabbage microgreens grown in four different growing media has been reported, with highest values obtained in soil plus cowdung media (Efendi et al., 2020). These results were attributed to the chemical properties of the soil (pH, cation exchange capacity, total N and available P) and physical properties of the soil media viz., bulk density, porosity and water holding capacity (Di Gioia et al., 2019). Wild cosmos microgreens grown in two different planting media also exhibited similar observations, where plant height, leaf area and root length showed significantly different values in various media, with highest plant height in biochar grown microgreens. However, yield was found to be greater in the media containing vermicompost as the growth substrate (media 2). This may be due to more number of seedlings in media 1, that resulted in more intraspecific competition for growth and development which eventually led to lesser yield in comparison to media 2 where a proper crop stand was obtained. Substrate biofortification also plays an imperative role in the morphometry of microgreens (Lee et al., 2004), thus proving that the media in which the microgreens are grown not only alters the nutritional composition but also the visual characteristics of the microgreens.\r\nPlant morphology largely depends on its genetics. Many species germinate easily and grow promptly while others are slow and perform poor in comparison (Paradiso et al., 2018). The morphological characters measured in the present study revealed that in general, kale microgreens (Pusa Kale- 64 and local kale) performed better morphologically than the other microgreens and Purple Top White Globe turnip gave poor results for most of the morphological parameters under observation (Table 3). Highest shoot length (11.68 cm) and leaf length (38.92 mm) was calculated in Chinese Yellow lettuce, maximum seedling length (16.34 cm) was obtained in Pusa Swarnima variety of turnip microgreens and highest root length (5.16 cm) was measured in Palam Vichitra broccoli. However, maximum value of leaf breadth (21.25 mm) and 100 seedling weight (29.64 g) was measured in local kale microgreens. Palam Samridhi gave the highest yield (7.30 kg/m2) among all the microgreens under study. This revealed that different microgreen varieties performed significantly different in the two growth media. Similar observations have been made by various scientists in other microgreens (Efendi et al., 2020; Lenzi et al., 2019; Sinha and Thilakavathya 2021; Ghoora et al., 2020; Sharma et al., 2013). These observations may be reasoned with germination related traits and vigor index which is inherent for different varieties of microgreens under study (Di Bella et al., 2021). Apart from the growth media, genotypes significantly affected the growth related traits of the microgreens, as revealed by our study. This observation was supported by another research on three microgreens belonging to Brassicaceae, where the genotype had significant impact on the leaf length, leaf breadth, weight and yield of microgreens.\r\n','Parul Pathania, Viveka Katoch, Anupama Sandal and Neelam Sharma (2022). Role of Substrate Media in Growth and Development of Selected Microgreens. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 14(3): 1357-1361.'),(5479,'144','Mohandas K. Gandhi: Nonviolence, Principles, and Chamber-Pots','Sajad Ahmad Sheikh','1 Mohandas K. Gandhi Nonviolence, Principles, and Chamber-Pots Sajad Ahmad Sheikh.pdf','',1,'The largest obstacle to saving people in today\'s world is from violence and wars. There is a long line of people waiting for peace so that they can survive the conflict. People will promise that no country can exploit another and that no country can produce weapons capable of mass murder. They believe that their plan can be realised by transforming the world\'s goodwill and efforts toward world peace into world peace in paradise. The whole world is waiting for a human universe that seems to be taking us to Mohandas Karamchand Gandhi (Mahatma Gandhi). This article\'s main issue is an extinct political ideology that Mahatma Gandhi promoted many years ago as a supporter of nonviolent policy in search of the human world. Here, the communication style has been shown to have the missing Gandhian ideals. This post will attempt to analyse Mahatma Gandhi\'s policy & ideology in communication style as we approach his 150th birthday celebrations. Through extensive study, this article will attempt to determine how Gandhi\'s philosophy and communications relate to one another. As a method of exploration and analysis, Gandhi’s principles Nonviolence, And Chamber-Pots have been scientifically reviewed in this article.','Violence, principles, chamber pots, Mohandas K. Gandhi, mass murder','-','-','-'),(5480,'136','Combined Impact of Major and Micronutrients on Vegetative Growth and Incidence of Pests and Diseases of Garlic (Allium sativum L.)','Shailendra Singh Yadav*, K.P. Asati, Swati Barche and Anjali Sharma','230 Combined Impact of Major and Micronutrients on Vegetative Growth and Incidence of Pests and Diseases of GarlicShailendra Singh Yadav.pdf','',1,'Incidence of pest and diseases is a common problem in garlic production. Micronutrients application may redress this problem to some extent. Therefore a field experiment was carried out at Research Farm, College of Agriculture, Indore (M.P.) during season 2020-21 to study the combined impact of major and micronutrients on vegetative growth and incidence of pests and diseases of garlic. The experiment comprising ten major-cum-micronutrients was laid out in a randomized block design with three replications. The Results revealed that the application of 100:50:50 NPK + boron 1 kg ha-1 (soil application) + boron 0.5% (foliar) T7 recorded maximum plant height (54.31 cm), leaf width (1.94 cm) and length of pseudostem (4.95 cm). The yield was 143.44 q ha-1. This was equally followed by T2 and T1 having foliar and soil applied boron respectively along with 100:50:50 NPK kg ha-1. On the other hand, application of only 100:50:50 NPK recorded significantly lowest vegetative growth parameters and thereby yield (109.60 q ha-1). The thrips and purple blotch incidence was found minimum under T8 having 100:50:50 NPK + sulphur 30 kg ha-1 applied through soil + sulphur 0.6% applied through foliar which recorded maximum garlic yield up to 158.44 q ha-1. This was followed by T4 (156.44 q ha-1) and T3 (150.89 q ha-1) having foliar and soil applied sulphur along with 100:50:50 NPK.','Major, micronutrients, yield, disease pest, garlic','The finding conclude that the best treatment was 100:50:50 NPK along with sulphur applied from both the routes (soil and foliar) as in T8 treatment which minimized the pest and diseases and produced maximum garlic (158.44 q ha-1). There was inverse relationship between incidence of thrips and purple blotch with the vegetative growth parameters of garlic.','INTRODUCTION\r\nGarlic (Allium sativum L.) is one of the most important spices and condiments used in daily cooking in India. It is an important crop among all the spice crops due to its medicinal as well as flavour and taste imparting characters. Garlic belongs to the family Alliaceae with genus Allium and species Sativum having 2n=16 chromosome numbers. In Madhya Pradesh, garlic has the highest area of 178 thousand hectares and production 1808 thousand tonnes with the productivity up to 10.15 t ha-1 (National Horticulture Board, 2020). The Mandsaur and Indore districts are the main producer of garlic in Madhya Pradesh. Continuous low yield in garlic attributed due to many factors like lack of proper planting material, inappropriate agronomic practices, inadequate pest and disease management, marketing facilities etc. (Nasreen et al., 2009). The use of major and micronutrients application is also very limited in this crop, resulting poor growth, yield and quality of garlic. Micronutrients are deficient in Indian soils because their removal by vegetable crops are never replenished (Rattan and Sharma 2014).\r\nThe micronutrients like sulphur, zinc, boron play an important role in photosynthesis, N-fixation, respiration and the metabolic processes of plant. Foliar application of micronutrients during crop growth correct the deficits and improving the mineral status of plants as well as increasing the crop yield and quality of garlic (Kolota and Osinska 2001). Garlic requires different micronutrients which are essential for health, growth and development. These are usually required in smaller amount than nitrogen, phosphorus and potassium. These are very important for growth and general health. (Singh et al., 1995).\r\nDue to non-addition of zinc and boron, crops suffer in many ways. In deficient condition of boron, growing plant become dead and ultimately the lateral shoots, buds and flowers dies. Chlorosis, thickening and curling of leaves were also observed (Francois, 1991). Limited work has been done on sulphur, zinc and boron towards the control of pests and diseases in garlic. Looking to all these facts the present research was taken up.\r\nMATERIALS AND METHODS\r\nThe field experiment was conducted during rabi season of 2020-21 at the Research Farm, College of Agriculture, Indore (M.P.). The soil of the experimental field was silty clay-loam having pH 7.2, organic carbon 7.6 g kg-1, available N, P and K 226, 10 and 448 kg ha-1, respectively. The experiment was laid out in randomized block design keeping three replications. The 10 treatments having different combinations of major and micronutrients fertilizers were T0=100:50:50 NPK (control), T1=100:50:50 NPK + boron 1 kg ha-1(soil application), T2=100:50:50 NPK + boron 0.5% (foliar), T3= 100:50:50 NPK + sulphur 30 kg ha-1 (soil application), T4= 100:50:50 NPK + sulphur 0.6% (foliar), T5= 100:50:50 NPK + zinc 7.5 kg ha-1 (soil application), T6= 100:50:50 NPK + zinc 3% (foliar), T7 = 100:50:50 NPK + boron 1 kg ha-1 (soil application) + boron 0.5% (foliar), T8= 100:50:50 NPK + sulphur 30 kg ha-1 (soil application) + sulphur 0.6% (foliar), T9= 100:50:50 NPK + zinc 7.5 kg ha-1 (soil application) + zinc 3% (foliar). The garlic var. G-282 was sown on 6 October 2020 using 500 kg seed ha-1 and keeping 15 x 10 cm spacing. Application of fertilizers major and micro nutrients were apply as per treatment by Urea, Di-ammonium phosphate, murate of potash, Richbore (20% boron), turbo zinc (12% zinc) and sulpho max (90% sulphur). The crop was harvested during the first week of April, 2021. The plant growth parameters, yield and yield attributing parameters were recorded in each treatment. Before presenting the result data were statistically analyzed. \r\nPest incidence. Pest incidence was recorded at regular interval from randomly selected plants from each plot. Hand lens was used for counting nymph and adult of thrips. \r\nDisease incidence. Disease incidence was recorded at regular interval in five diseased samples were collected from each plot for identification of purple blotch .Observations were recorded with respect to disease severity of purple blotch with the following formula.\r\nDI=(Number of infected plant)/(Total number of inspected plant)×100\r\nRESULTS AND DISCUSSION\r\nVegetative growth parameters. The data furnished in (Table 1) indicated that the plant height of garlic was significantly increased (54.31 cm) with 100:50:50 NPK + boron 1 kg ha-1 soil application + boron 0.5% foliar application (T7). This was closely followed by boron 0.5% foliar application (T2) (51.30 cm height) as well as soil application of boron 1 kg ha-1 (T1) (50.55 cm height). The significant increased in plant height due to application of boron might be due to their role in the cell division and cell enlargement in the coincident enlargement of the protoplast through water uptake. Similar results have been reported by Chanchan et al. (2013); Pramanik and Tripathy (2017); Yadav et al. (2018). Significantly highest number of leaves per plant by foliar and soil application of boron (T7) (9.22) and followed by foliar application of boron (T2) (8.55). Thus, the use of boron increased the more leaves per plant than other micronutrients. This was due to their significant role in cell division, meristematic activity of plant tissue and expansion of cells. Significantly increased number of leaves per plant with application of boron was also reported by Dake et al. (2012); Manna et al. (2013); Acharya et al. (2015).\r\nThe leaf length of garlic plant was also significantly influenced by foliar along with soil application of boron (49.48 cm) than other micronutrient application (44.84 cm to 47.87 cm) and control (41.87 cm). The significant effect of boron with foliar and soil application in combined with chemical fertilizers (NPK) was recorded. In case of leaf width and length of pseudostem significant enhancement was noticed. The increase in leaf length, leaf width and length of pseudostem might be due to role of boron in nitrogen, carbohydrate metabolism and cell enlargement. The better efficiency of boron has also been reported by Yadav et al. (2018); Shukla et al. (2018).\r\nThe present study clearly indicated the beneficial impact of boron on the growth of garlic crop, which might be due to the involvement of boron in different physiological processes and cellular function within the plant. In addition boron plays an essential role in improving the plant growth through cell enlargement and increased uptake of potassium and phosphorus which are responsible for promoting plant growth in garlic Rani et al., (2015); Yadav et al., (2018); Shukla et al., (2018).\r\nDisease and pest incidence. The significantly minimum percentage of (purple blotch) disease (12.62%) and thrips incidence (4.33%) was observed in T8 treatment. The second best treatment was foliar application of sulphur, T4 (18.68% purple blotch and 9.67%, thrips). The maximum disease and pest incidence (41.41% and 34.67%, respectively) was observed in T0 (control). The minimum incidence of disease and pest may be due to sulphur containing some metabolities like glutathione and glucosinolates which are involved in the pathogen resistance and gaseous release of volatile sulphur. Sulphur acts as a strong fungicide in vegetable cultivation that is one of the impetuses of minimum disease incidence Fernando et al. (2021).\r\nBulb yield. The 100% recommended dose of 100:50:50 NPK in concurrence with sulphur, boron and zinc micronutrients was related with the corresponding increase in bulb yield. The bulb yield per hectare was significantly influenced by the different treatments. The maximum bulb yield up to 158.44 q ha-1 was observed under 100:50:50 NPK + sulphur 30 kg ha-1 applied through soil + sulphur 0.6% through foliar whereas the minimum bulb yield 109.67 q ha-1 was recorded under the 100:50:50 NPK (control).\r\nThe increased efficiency of applied sulphur might be due to combined effect of its foliar–cum-soil application on growth and development, consequently bulb yield as compared to its soil or foliar application. The availability of sulphur along with foliar application enhanced the photosynthesis rate in leaves, nitrogen metabolism and other compounds required for plant metabolism. consequently, increased the transfer of food materials towards the sink. Similar findings have also been supported by Farooqui et al. (2009); Babaleshwar et al. (2017); Yatsenko et al. (2020).\r\n','Shailendra Singh Yadav, K.P. Asati, Swati Barche and Anjali Sharma (2022). Combined Impact of Major and Micronutrients on Vegetative Growth and Incidence of Pests and Diseases of Garlic (Allium sativum L.). Biological Forum – An International Journal, 14(3): 1362-1364.'),(5481,'136','Evaluation of Bioagents and Phytoextract against Macrophomina phaseolina caused by Dry Root Rot of Safflower','M.D. Navale, V.M. Gholve and G.S. Pawar','231 Evaluation of Bioagents and Phytoextract against Macrophomina phaseolina caused by Dry Root Rot of Safflower M. D. Navale.pdf','',1,'Dry Root rot is an important disease of Safflower (Carthamous tinctorius L.) caused by Macrophomina phaseolina (Tassi) Goid was observed in farmer’s field of different districts of Marathwada region which cause severe economic yield loss. The study aimed at minimizing the indigenous usage of chemical fungicides and adopting the strategy of biological control and plant extract for management of this devastating fungus. In this study, applying Dual culture technique and Poisoned food technique and using Potato dextrose agar (PDA) as basal culture medium was used to see how effective various bioagents and plant extract were at managing M. phaseolina. Among the tested biocontrol agents against Macrophomina phaseolina, T. virens (86.42%) was found most effective which resulted in maximum inhibition of mycelial growth of the pathogen followed by T. koningii (82.72%), T. asperellum (79.77%). Among tested different Phytoextract @ 10, 15 and 20 per cent evaluated against M. phaseolina. Allium sativum (100%) was found most effective, resulted in complete inhibition of mycelial growth of the pathogen followed by Z. officinale (68.16, 75.19 and 80%) and A. indica (64.44, 69.52 and 72.22%). ','Bioagents, biological control, Phytoextract, dry root rot, Macrophomina phaseolina, safflower','The ability of polyphagous, soil inhabiting R. bataticola to survive for longer periods as sclerotia in the soil makes its management a difficult chore. However, the current study found that using bioagents and plant extract aids in the effective management of safflower dry root rot disease. Trichoderma virens was found to be the most effective bioagent, followed by T. koningii with mycelial growth inhibition percentage of 86.42 and 82.72 respectively. Bacillus subtilis, on the other hand, was shown to be the least effective against pathogen. Also different Phytoextract @ 10, 15 and 20 per cent evaluated against M. phaseolina. Allium sativum (100%) was found most effective, resulted in complete inhibition of mycelial growth of the pathogen followed by Z. officinale (68.16, 75.19 and 80%) respectively, M. spicata on the other hand, was shown to be the least effective against pathogen.\r\nUse of bioagents and plant extract greatly lower the disease incidence. Farmers benefit from the use of bioagents and phytoextract not only in terms of lowering cultivation costs, but also in terms of increasing yields. The current study advises more trials to be undertaken in naturally infected safflower fields to encourage the use of bioagents and plant extract as an eco-friendly technique for the management of the dry root rot disease and thereby, lower the cost of cultivation by avoiding unsustainable chemical practices.\r\n','INTRODUCTION\r\nSafflower (Carthamous tinctorius L.), commonly known as Kardi (Marathi), Kusube (Kannada), Kusum (Hindi) and Kusumba (Telugu), is one of the important Rabi oilseed crops of the country originated from Abyssinia and Afghanistan. It is drought tolerant, self-pollinated crop belonging to the family compositae or asteraceae. Safflower crop can be grown in wide range of soils like clay loam, sandy loam, shallow and light textured soils. This crop has a tap root system, which is being cultivated in tropical as well as in sub-tropical conditions with ideal temperature required for this crop being 22° to 35°. It is popular among the farmers due to its hardy nature, short duration and high commercial value.\r\nIndia ranks first in world in respect area and production of safflower. In India Maharashtra, Karnataka, Andhra Pradesh, Madhya Pradesh, Gujarat, Orissa and Bihar are major safflower growing states. In 2018-19 and 2019-20 India area 46.00 and 52.00 (‘000 ha), production 25.00 and 44.00 (‘000 Tonne) and productivity 537 and 843 kg/ ha. Maharashtra ranks first in India in respect area and production of safflower. In 2019-20 Maharashtra state area is 21.60 (‘000 ha), production 14.93 (‘000 Tonne) and productivity 691 kg/ha (Anonymous 2020a & 2020b).\r\nThe diseases of safflower, among these diseases, root rot caused by Macrophomina phaseolina (Tassi) Goid is a very devastating disease of safflower and causes heavy reduction in total yield (Kore and Deshmukh 1982). It is the major soil borne disease and appears sporadically all over the country (Shambharkar and Indi 1987). Occurrence of this disease on safflower in India was first reported by Amarsingh and Bhowmik (1979) from IARI, New Delhi and later on by-others from different parts of the country (Kore and Deshmukh (1982); Lukade, (1992) from Maharashtra; Singh et al. (1987) from M.P.).\r\nThe crop is being affected by various fungal, bacterial, viral and phytoplasmal diseases. Among the fungal diseases, root rot/charcoal rot/stem rot caused by Macrophomina phaseolina (Tassi.) Goid., is one of the most devastating diseases, causing approximately 25-30% yield losses in Karnataka (Singh and Bhowmik 1979), 42-45% yield losses in India (Rani et al., 2009). The pathogen being mostly soil borne and sometimes seed borne, cause pre-emergence seed rot as well as post-emergence seedling mortality and also reduction in total plant population per unit area. During drought / water stress conditions and high soil temperature, the safflower crop is more prone to the disease root / charcoal / stems rot, caused by M. phaseolina.\r\nMATERIALS AND METHODS\r\nSeven fungal antagonists viz., Trichoderma asperallum, T. harzianum, T. hamatum, T. koningii, T. longibrachiatum, T. virens, Aspergillus niger and two bacterial antagonists Bacillus subtilis and Pseudomonas fluorescens were evaluated in vitro against M. phaseolina (MpH3 isolate), applying Dual culture technique (Arora and Upadhay 1978).\r\nSeven days old cultures of the test bioagents and the test pathogen (M. phaseolina) (MpH3 isolate) grown on agar media was used for the study. The culture disc (5mm) of the test pathogen and bioagent were cutout with sterilized cork borer, from a week old culture. Then two culture discs, one each of the test pathogen and bioagent were placed aseptically at equidistance and exactly opposite with each other on solidified PDA medium petri plates and plates were incubated at 28+2°C. Three replications were maintained. PDA plates inoculated only with culture disc of the test pathogen were maintained as untreated control.\r\nDetails of experiment:\r\n Design : CRD\r\n Replications : Three\r\n Treatments : Ten \r\nFungal antagonists \r\n T1 : Trichoderma asperellum\r\n T2 : T. harzianum\r\n T3 : T. hamatum\r\n T4 : T. koningii\r\n T5 : T. longibrachiatum\r\n T6 : T. virens\r\n T7 : Aspergillus niger\r\nBacterial antagonists\r\n T8 : Bacillus subtilis\r\n T9 : Pseudomonas fluorescens\r\n T10 : Control\r\nObservations on radial mycelial growth of the fungal pathogen and biocontrol agents were measured and per cent inhibition of the test fungus were calculated by applying formula given by Arora and Upaddyay (1978) as follows.\r\n Colony growth in \r\n \r\n\r\n\r\n \r\nIn vitro evaluation of botanicals/plant extracts. Aqueous extracts of 11 botanicals were evaluated in vitro against M. phaseolina (MpH3 isolate), applying poisoned food technique. Aqueous extracts of the test botanicals were prepared by grinding with mixture-cum grinder. The 100gm held leaves/ bulbs/rhizomes of each of the test botanicals were macerated in 100 ml distilled water (w/v) separately and the acerates obtain were filtered through double layered muslin cloth. Each of the filtrate obtained were further filtered through by G2 and G3 filter paper using funnel and volumetric flasks (100 ml caps.). The final clear extracts /filtrates obtained formed the standard aqueous extract of 100 per cent concentration. These were evaluated (@ 10, 15 and 20% each) in vitro against M. phaseolina (MpH3 isolate), applying Poisoned food technique (Nene and Thapliyal 1993) and using Potato dextrose agar (PDA) as basal culture medium.\r\nAn appropriate quantity of each test aqueous extract (100%) were separately mixed thoroughly with autoclaved and cooled (40°C) PDA medium in conical flasks (250 ml cap.) to obtain desired concentrations (@ 10, 15 and 20%). The PDA medium amended separately with the test aqueous extract were then poured (20 ml/plate) into sterile glass Petri plates (90 mm dia.) and allowed to solidify at room temperature. For each test botanical extract and their respective concentrations, three replications were maintained. All the treatment plates (PDA Amended) were aseptically inoculated by placing in the centre a 5 mm mycelial disc obtained from a week old actively growing pure culture of M. phaseolina (MpH3 isolate). Plates containing plain PDA without any botanical extract and inoculated with mycelial disc of the test pathogen served as untreated control. All these plates were then incubated at 28±2°C temperature for a week or till the untreated control plates were fully covered with mycelial growth of the test pathogen. \r\nExperimental details\r\n Design : CRD\r\n Replications : Three\r\n Treatments : Twelve \r\nObservations on radial mycelial growth and sporulation of the test fungus were recorded at 24 hrs. interval and were continued till growth of the test pathogen in untreated control plate is fully covered. Per cent inhibition of the test pathogen was calculated by applying formula given by Vincent (1927).\r\n \r\nWhere,\r\nC= growth of the test pathogen in untreated control plates (mm)\r\nT= growth of the test pathogen a in treated plates (mm)\r\nRESULT AND DISCUSSION\r\nIn vitro evaluation of bioagents\r\nThe results obtained on mycelial growth and its inhibition of M. phaseolina with the test bioagents / antagonists are presented in Table 1, Plate 1 and Fig. 1. \r\nResults (Table 1 and Plate 1) revealed that all of the bioagents evaluated exhibited antifungal activity against M. phaseolina and significantly inhibited its growth over untreated control of the antagonists tested, T. virens was found most effective with least colony diameter and highest mycelial growth inhibition (12.22 mm and 86.42 %) of the test pathogen respectively which was significantly superior over all the treatments followed by T. koningii (15.55 mm and 82.72 %), T. asperellum (18.21 mm and 79.77 %), T. longibrachiatum (22.45 mm and 75.06 %), A. niger (26.15 mm and 70.94 %), T. harzianum (29.20 mm and 67.56 %), T. hamatum (33.42 mm and 62.87 %), Pseudomonas fluorescens (42.15 mm and 53.17 %) and Bacillus subtilis (43.21 mm and 51.99 %).\r\nThe fungistatic/antifungal action exerted by the fungal and bacterial antagonists against M. phaseoliona, the cause of safflower dry root rot may be attributed to the various mechanisms such as competition, lysis, antibiosis, production of volatile/non-volatile substances and production of cellulolytic/pectolytic enzymes, by the antagonistic organisms.\r\nFungal bioagents viz., T. virens, T. koningii and T. asperellum were reported efficient antagonists agaist these M. phaseolina results are in consonance with the findings of several workers Gojiya et al. (2016) they reported maximum mycelial growth inhibition with T. harzianum-II (76.84%) followed by T. harzianum–III (72.31%), T. koningii (65.13%), T. viride (63.89%); Maruti et al. (2017b) reported that T. viride resulted with maximum mycelia growth inhibition (77.20 %), followed by T. virense (75.76 %), T. harzianum (73.91 %) and P. fluorescens (38.12 %); (Ushamalini, et al., 1997; Malathi and Doraisamy 2003; Thombre et al., 2013; Shahare, 2014; Wadhave and Navgire 2014; Aravind and Brahmbhatt 2018; Thombre and Kohire 2018a ) \r\nIn vitro evaluation of plant extracts/botanicals. Aqueous extracts of 11 botanicals were evaluated in vitro (each @ 10, 15 and 20%) against M. phaseolinaand the results obtained on its mycelial growth and inhibition are presented in the Table 2 and depicted in the Plate 2. A, B, C and Fig. 2. Results (Table 2) revealed that all the 11 botanicals extracts tested were fungistatic/antifungal to M. phaseolina, which significantly reduced mycelial growth and increased its inhibition over untreated control. The mycelial growth was found to be decreased and its inhibition was increased with increase in concentrations of the botanicals tested.\r\nMycelial growth. At 10, 15 and 20 per cent, (Table 2, Plate 2A, B, C and Fig. 2) radial mycelial growth of the test pathogen was ranged from A. sativam (0.00, 0.00 and 0.00 mm) to M. spicata (82.43, 79.33 and 69.00 mm) as against 90.00 mm in untreated control respectively, however, significantly least mycelial growth was recorded with A. sativam (0.00, 0.00 and 0.00 mm) which was significantly superior over all the treatments followed by the botanicals viz., A. cepa (18.33, 13.33 and 9.66 mm), Z. officinale (28.66, 22.33 and 18.00 mm), A. indica (32.00, 27.43 and 25.00 mm), O. sanctum (38.00, 35.66 and 28.33 mm), C. longa (42.33, 40.33 and 33.56 mm), A. vasica (51.93, 48.43 and 42.33 mm), P. pinnata (64.56, 58.00 and 53.36 mm), L. camera (70.16, 62.43 and 55.33 mm), A. racemosa (79.23, 71.00 and 62.66 mm) and showed highest mycelial growth on M. spicata (82.43, 79.33 and 69.00 mm).\r\nMycelial growth inhibition. Results obtained on mycelial growth inhibition of the test pathogen with the botanicals tested at various concentrations are presented in the Table 2 and depicted in the Plate 2A, B, C. Results (Table 2) revealed that all the botanicals tested (@each 10, 15 and 20%), significantly inhibited mycelial growth of the test pathogen over untreated control. Further, it was found that percentage mycelial growth inhibition of the test pathogen was increased with increase in concentrations of the botanicals tested (Plate 2A, B, C).\r\nAt 10, 15 and 20 per cent, (Table 2, Plate 2A, B, C and Fig. 2) mycelial growth inhibition was ranged from M. spicata (8.41, 11.86 and 23.33 %)to A. sativam (100, 100 and 100 %) respectively, however, significantly highest mycelial growth inhibition was recorded with A. sativam (100 %) each concentration which was significantly superior over all the treatments followed by the botanicals viz., A. cepa (79.63, 85.19 and 79.27 %), Z. officinale (68.16, 75.19 and 80.00 mm), A. indica (64.44, 69.52 and 72.22 %), O. sanctum (57.78, 60.38 and 68.52 %), C. longa (52.97, 55.19 and 62.71 %), A. vasica (42.30, 46.19 and 52.97 %), P. pinnata (28.27, 35.56 and 40.71), L. camera (22.04, 30.63 and 38.52 mm), A. racemosa (11.97, 21.11 and 30.38 %) and least inhibition in M. spicata (8.41, 11.86 and 23.33 %) at respective concentration.\r\nResults of the present study on antifungal activity of the botanicals are in conformity with those reported earlier by several workers. Botanicals/plant extracts viz., A. sativum, A. cepa, Z. officinale, A. indica, O. sanctum, C. longa, A. vasica, P. pinnata, L. camera, A. racemosa and M. spicata reported antifungal/fungistatic against M. phaseolina, earlier by several workers Gawande et al., (2018) reported that botanicals viz., A. sativam, A. cepa and Z. officinale is most effective and per cent inhibit at concentrations 10, 15, 20% (78.14, 84.07 and 88.51) against M. phaseolina; Magar et al., (2011) reported that @ 10% garlic (A. sativum) is superior treatment and recorded maximum inhibition (88.15%). (Upadhyaya and Gupta 1990; Sundarraj et al., 1996; Sindhan et al., 1999; Jha et al., 2000; Tandel et al., 2010; Dhingani, 2013; Khaire et al., 2018).','M.D. Navale, V.M. Gholve and G.S. Pawar (2022). Evaluation of Bioagents and Phytoextract against Macrophomina phaseolina caused by Dry Root Rot of Safflower. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 14(3): 1365-1370.'),(5482,'136','An insight of Genetic Diversity Analysis in Advance Breeding Lines of Chickpea (Cicer arietinum L.)','Shikha Upadhyay, Anita Babbar, Deepak Katkan, Vinay Prakash Bagde and Pratik Kumar','232 An insight of Genetic Diversity Analysis in Advance Breeding Lines of Chickpea _Cicer arietinum L._ Shikha Upadhyay.pdf','',1,'Assessment of genetic divergence and characterization of breeding lines helps plant breeders to select parents in their breeding programme to generate new variability and development of superior cultivars and different populations for various genetic studies of economically important traits. Research with thirty genotypes of chickpea carried out to study the magnitude and nature of genetic divergence using the Mahalanobis’s D2 statistics, with three replication in randomized complete block design. The data for fourteen important quantitative traits were recorded from the advance breeding lines of chickpea raised. The thirty chickpea genotypes were classified into five clusters. Cluster I was largest with twenty two genotypes followed by cluster II with five genotypes and remaining clusters (III, IV, and V) were monogenotypic. Three characters viz. days to maturity, no. of pods per plant, biological yield and hundred seed weight contributed maximum in manifestation of genetic diversity. The genotypes ICCV191618, JG 63-14407, JG2016-74315, JG 2021-1424 JG18-251097 and JG2016-36 were notified as genetically diverse parents, which can be utilized for future crop improvement programme in Chickpea. ','Chickpea, Genetic diversity, Cluster, Divergence analysis','-','Chickpea (Cicer arietinum L.) is a diploid crop plant (2n = 2x = 16) with an approximately 740 Mb haploid genome size (Varshney et at., 2013). Southeastern Turkey and adjoining area of Syria and Ethiopia are the primary Vavilovian centers of origin and secondary center of diversity respectively. India, the largest chickpea-producing country, with a 75% share of global production (Gaur et at., 2019) and it produced in 50 countries, of which Australia, Myanmar, Pakistan, Turkey, Canada, Ethiopia, India, Iran, Mexico, and the USA are the major producers (Dixit et at., 2019). Among crucial food legumes crops, the chickpea ranked second from beans (Phaseolus vulgaris L.) in the area of yield and it holds third position as an important cultivated legume crop in the world after soybean and dry bean (Srivastava et at., 2017). In terms of the pulse production across the world, chickpea contributes about 12% in which more than 70% production contributed by different countries of Asia continent. However, the highest percentage is noted for yield in India is 70% of total world yield (Aswathi et at., 2019). It is a cheap and major source of protein for vegans. Furthermore, it is also rich source of minerals (magnesium, phosphorus, calcium, zinc and iron) unsaturated fatty acids, β-carotene and fiber which are considered good for health and well-being.\r\nThe principle and procedure of Mahalanobis\'s D2-statistics (1936) helps has made possible to point-out genetically diverged parents which computes the degree of divergence and provides the idea about the relative contribution of each and every component traits towards the total divergence. The understanding and knowledge of genetic diversity has a significant impression on the crops improvement research. Evaluation of genetic diversity in breeding lines can facilitate identification of diverse heterotic group with possible breeding values in substantiation of breeding potential of breeding lines in breeding programme. Genetic distance plays a definite role for efficient choice of parents for hybridization programme (Saha et at., 2018). More diverse the parents within the rational limits, the more the probability of obtaining heterotic broader spectrum of variability in the segregating populations. Modern agriculture production and plant breeding techniques narrowed and limited the base for the genetic diversity of chickpea. Therefore, the present investigation has been outlined to evaluate the genetic diversity among the chickpea breeding lines for important traits. Therefore, it’s time to explore diversity and novel sources of variation that might be used in plant breeding programmes.\r\nMATERIAL AND METHODS \r\nThe experimental material consisted 30 advance breeding lines of chickpea. The investigational research was laid out with three replication in randomized complete block design (RCBD) during rabi seasons 2020-21 at Seed Breeding Farm, Department of Plant Breeding and Genetics, JNKVV Jabalpur. Research plot was divided into 2 rows of 4.0 m length for each genotype. Intra and inter-row spacing was kept at 10.0 and 30.0 cm respectively and recommended agronomical practices were put into effect to grow sufficient plant population. Five plants are selected randomly from each plot among replication and labeled for observing the further quantitative parameters on yield and its contributing traits, like, number of primary branches per plant, number of secondary branches per plant, days to 50% flowering, days to maturity, plant height (cm), height of first fruiting node (cm), stem thickness (mm), total number of effective pods per plant, number of seeds per pod, 100 seed weight (g), biological yield per plant (g), harvest index (%) and seed yield per plant (g). The data recorded were subjected to D2 statistics to unveil the genetic diversity among the breeding lines as suggested by Mahalanobis (1936). Grouping of breeding lines into different clusters was done as per the method suggested by Rao (1952). The statistical data were analyzed using INDOSTAT version 9.1 software programme.\r\nRESULT AND DISCUSSION\r\nGenetic diversity is the fundamental requirement of any of the breeding programme targeted at genetic amelioration of yield (Shafique et at., 2016). The evaluation of genetic diversity is crucial not only for crop improvements but also structured management and conservation of germplasm resources. In present research of investigation, thirty advance breeding lines of chickpea were fall into five clusters based on divergence analysis were depicted in Table 1 and Fig1., cluster I was the largest amongst all the clusters having 22 advance breeding lines followed by cluster II contain 5 advance breeding lines, while cluster III (JG 2021-1424), cluster IV (JG18-251097) and cluster V (JG2016-36) was monogenotypic, each with a single advance breeding line. Therefore this result revealed that the advance breeding lines are independent and collected from different sections must be incorporate in the hybridization research programme. The maximum advance breeding lines grouped into cluster I pointed unidirectional selection for individual character or lines from almost similar geographical point of origin.\r\nThe genetic divergence percentage contributions through all the 14 quantifiable traits under research are described in Table 2 & Fig. 2. The percent involvement of individual traits in the direction of the total divergence was observed highest for total no of pods per plant (57.38%). However, traits like, days to maturity (17.70%), plant height (9.20%), hundred seed weight (14.02%), biological yield (14.02%), also contributed high percentage toward divergence after total no of pods per plant. Trait, total no of effective pods per plant contributed a 6.44 % in total divergence, these findings of divergence contribution with similar variation was also reported by Biswal and Babbar (2022); Tiwari and Babbar (2017); Gediya et al. (2018). For magnification of genetic gains, the diverse parents should be used in the crossing programme with different allele combination to get the transgressive segregants. Furthermore, for crop improvement programme, the availability of superior segregates rely on the divergence between the parents involves, as a consequences, for the selection of parent; it can be one of the key criteria in hybridization programme.\r\nCluster mean for various traits presented in the table3. Cluster V gives maximum value 66 days and cluster III revealed lowest value (58days) for days to 50 % flowering. A maximum day taken to maturity was found in cluster V (108 days), whereas minimum was found in cluster III (98.3days), similarly for pant height cluster I (60.9cm) showed highest and cluster IV (53.3cm) lowest values respectively. Highest and lowest height of first fruiting node was falling in cluster I (26.3cm) and cluster IV (18.9cm) respectively. Highest stem thickness value was observed in cluster V (3.2 mm) and lowest was found in both cluster II (2.9mm) and cluster III (2.9mm). For no of primary branches per plant highest value fall under cluster IV and lowest in cluster II, similarly highest and lowest value of no of secondary branches per plant was observed in cluster IV and III respectively. Maximum total no of pods per plant were observed under cluster II and minimum in cluster IV, similarly for no of effective pods per plant highest value were observed in cluster V and lowest were observed in cluster IV (59.9). While considering the no of seed per pod maximum value found in cluster III and lowest found in cluster V (1.2). Hundred seed weight were highest and lowest in cluster IV (43.2g) and cluster II (20.5g) respectively, similarly biological yield showed maximum value in cluster V (62.2g) and lowest in cluster I (40.02g) respectively. Harvest index revealed highest value in cluster III and lowest in cluster I (52.2%). Considering seed yield per plant highest value were observed in cluster V (36.8g) and lowest were observed in cluster I (20.6g). In the plant breeding basic requirement for any breeding objective is selection of suitable parents and off spring for further improvement program. So in the study the genotype (JG2016-36) of cluster V may be used for further crop improvement studies by more focusing on the traits viz, days to maturity, total no of pod per plant, 100seed weight and biological yield per plant. These similar results were in closed harmony with Vijaya Kumar et al. (2017); Aswathi et al. (2019); Biswal and Babbar (2022); Katkani et al. (2022). Therefore, this present research exemplify that there is an adequate possibility for obtaining genetic diversity which helps in the improvement of chickpea breeding plan.\r\n \r\n','Shikha Upadhyay, Anita Babbar, Deepak Katkan, Vinay Prakash Bagde and Pratik Kumar (2022). An insight of Genetic Diversity Analysis in Advance Breeding Lines of Chickpea (Cicer arietinum L.). Biological Forum – An International Journal, 14(3): 1371-1374.'),(5483,'136','Avian Community Composition and Behavioural Observation on Damage inflicting Avian species at the Grape Orchard','Kiran, Dharambir Singh*, Amit Kour, Renu Yadav, Priya and Parveen Gill','233 Avian Community Composition and Behavioural Observation on Damage inflicting Avian species at the Grape Orchard Kiran.pdf','',1,'Agriculture throughout the world has an issue with bird damage. By directly consuming fruit, birds impose enormous expenses on fruit farmers. An essential first step in reducing bird damage is to identify the species that cause crop damage. The present study was conducted to record avian composition and behavioural observations of damage-inflicting avian species at the experimental grape orchard, CCSHAU, Hisar from February, 2021 to May, 2021 and February, 2022 to May, 2022. A total of 10 bird species were visiting the grape crop and of these, 6 (Rose-ringed Parakeet, Red-vented Bulbul, Brown headed Barbet, Western Koel, Rufous Treepie and Common myna) were recorded to cause damage to grapefruit. Feeding guild status revealed that insectivorous was the most dominating guild followed by frugivorous and omnivorous. The number of bird visits recorded maximum at ripen stage as compared to the unripe stage. Rose-ringed Parakeet being the most abundant cause severe damage followed by Common Myna, Brown headed Barbet, Red-vented Bulbul, Western Koel and Rufous Treepie. Bird damage to fruit crops is a long-standing problem imposing great loss to growers a more species-specific management effort may be implemented with the help of current information on the pest birds.','Agriculture, birds, damage, grapefruit, Orchard','The phases of fruit development in the grape crop were found to be associated with bird community characteristics. It may be suggested that different eco-friendly bird scaring techniques should be used in crop agronomic programmes for improved fruit output and reduced financial losses to farmers. ','INTRODUCTION\r\nAvian fauna is an essential component of biodiversity, which contributes to maintaining the ecological balance. Bird behaviour, distribution, seasonal phenology, and demography are all linked with changes in agricultural practices on both regional and temporal scales (Tabur, 2010). Birds are ecologically diverse, better-known vertebrate groups, found all over the world and conspicuous in a variety of habitats. The overall number of bird species known to exist on the planet has been estimated to be around 10896, (Gill and Donsker 2019). India harbours around 1306 species and 531 species found in Haryana (Praveen et al., 2016). Birds are an important component of the agroecosystem. The function of birds in agriculture is complex and influenced by several factors such as their feeding habits and degree of reliance on crops, physiological conditions and age etc. (Rana and Narang 2004). Agriculture provides birds with a concentrated and reliable supply of food. There are three types of food: fruits grain and seeds (ii) green vegetation such as grasses and crop plants (iii) insects, arthropods, and rodents found in the soil and crops (Dhindsa and Saini, 1994). Birds supply several services to the agroecosystem in exchange. Plant-frugivore interactions are an important element of many plants\' reproductive cycles, and frugivorous bird species play a significant role in seed dispersal. Birds consume termites, beetles, moths, spiders, and ants to keep a potent check on insect population. Raptors also control the population of birds, mammals, and reptiles in agriculture and act as bioindicators in agroecosystems (Sekercioglu, 2006).\r\nDespite this, several bird species are among the most pestiferous species, causing significant harm to crops. It\'s worth mentioning that in India, 05 out of 1000 bird species (or 2.1 per cent) have been documented damaging crops and fruits. Many species cause damage to crops either directly by granivory or frugivory (Schackermann et al., 2014) or indirectly by devouring natural enemies of pests (Martin et al., 2013). The percentage of damage may vary in different crops e.g. small berry production is estimated to be damaged by 30 to 35%, wine and table grapes by 7%, apples and pears by 13%, stone fruits by 16 %, and nut crops by 22 %. Growers are concerned about bird damage to fruit orchards, which costs them millions of dollars each year in addition fruit-eating birds may cause damage to fruit by making it prone to infection and lowering its quality (Elser et al., 2019).\r\nSo, the present investigation was carried out to study the community composition and damage by birds at different fruit developmental stages of the grape crop, because knowledge about bird species in a given geographic region is required to establish conservation measures.\r\nMATERIALS AND METHODS\r\nStudy area. Chaudhary Charan Singh Haryana Agricultural University is situated in Hisar, Haryana. It has geographical extension from 29 0859.1N latitudes and 75 4216.8E longitudes.\r\nData collection. The avifaunal diversity was studied at the experimental grape orchard of HAU. Observations on birds were taken by following line transects and point count method (Altman, 1974; Gaston, 1975; Sales and Berkmuller, 1988) from February, 2021 to May, 2021 and February, 2022 to May, 2022, Birds were observed with binoculars to pin down their unique morphological features crucial for identification. After that photographs were clicked with a COOLPIX NIKON P900 camera. All field surveys were conducted on a weekly basis from 6:00 to 9:00 A.M. and from 5.00 P.M. - 7.00 P.M. during the summer season. The bird observed in the study areas were identified using reference books (Grimmet et al., 2016). For identification and preparation of the checklist, authentic avian databases (IUCN Red list of threatened species, Oriental Bird Club image database and Merlin bird ID) were also used. Feeding bird’s status (e.g., Insectivore, Carnivore, Omnivore, Frugivore, Herbivore, Granivore, Nectarivore, and Piscivore) were categorised based on field observations and available literature (Ali, 2002). Data related to each survey were kept separate and examined for local abundance status based on several sightings: Very common (VC) were sighted > 10 times; Common (C) seven to nine times; Uncommon (UC) three to six times and Rare (Ra) were sighted once or twice (MacKinnon and Phillipps, 1993). The residential status of birds was also categorised based on presence or absence in a particular season and different status categories were assigned: resident (presence throughout the year), winter migrant (present from October to March) and summer migrant (present from March to August) and passage migrant (present from August to October). IUCN (2021) conventions were used to assess the species conservation status and population trends.\r\nRESULTS AND DISCUSSION\r\nA total of 10 species (Asian Green Bee-eater, Western Koel, Rufous Treepie, Grey-bellied Cuckoo, Ashy Prinia, Red-vented Bulbul, Common Myna, Asian Pied Starling, Brown headed Barbet, Rose-ringed Parakeet ) were recorded visiting grape crop from February, 2021 to April, 2021 and February, 2022 to April, 2022 as shown in table 1. Common Starling was the most abundant species in vineyards (Tracey and Saunders, 2003). The observations on the feeding guild of recorded species in the study area unveiled that insectivorous is a highly dominated guild. Out of 10 species, 4 species (Asian Green Bee-eater, Grey-bellied Cuckoo, Ashy Prinia, Rufous Treepie) were chiefly insectivorous, 3 species (Red-vented Bulbul, Brown headed Barbet, Rose-ringed Parakeet) were frugivorous and 3(Western Koel, Common Myna, Asian Pied Starling) were omnivorous. Similarly, insectivores were a dominating group of birds in different areas reported by Narayana et al. (2019) in agricultural landscapes of Peddagattu and Sherpally area of Telangana, India, Kumar and Sahu (2020) in agricultural landscapes of Panipat, Haryana, Platt et al. (2021) at traditional rice ecosystem, Myanmar. Residential status revealed that 9 species were resident and one was a summer migrant. According to IUCN red list (2021), all species are categorised as the least concern. Out of these, 5 species have increasing, 4 have been stable and one has decreasing population trend. Abundance status of recorded avian species on basis of sightings reveals that 5 species were very common (Asian Green Bee-eater, Red-vented Bulbul, Common Myna, Rose-ringed Parakeet, Rufous Treepie), 4 (Western Koel, Ashy Prinia, Brown headed Barbet, Asian Pied Starling) were common and one (Grey-bellied Cuckoo) was rare.\r\nField observation revealed that Rose-ringed Parakeet, Red-vented Bulbul, Brown headed Barbet, Western Koel, Rufous Treepie and Common myna were the major frugivorous birds. According to Simwat and Sidhu (1973); Toor, (1982); Chakravarthy (1993) some species of bulbuls, parakeets, mynas, crows and one species of koel are frugivorous. A total of 6 species were recorded to cause damage to grapefruit. Dhindsa and Saini (1994) recorded similar findings that only 5 of the nearly 1000 bird species or (2.1%) inflicted damage to fruits and crops. Even with protection, bird damage can still cost a vineyard 83% of its production (Wang et al., 2019). The number of bird visits were recorded maximum at the ripening stage as compared to the unripe stage. The bird damage started early in the ripening stage of grapefruit (Somers and Morris, 2002). Grasswitz and Fimbers (2013); Patyal et al. (2003) observed the correlation between the extent of damage and the preference for red apple colour in the late ripening stage.The most severe damage was caused by Rose-ringed Parakeet and was the most abundant species followed by Common Myna, Brown headed Barbet, Red-vented bulbul, Western Koel and Rufous Treepie. Our findings are similar to Klug et al. (2019); Patyal and Rana (2006) who also reported that the Rose-ringed Parakeet is the worst agricultural pest, and it causes significant harm to standing crops, orchards, and vegetable crops. The average number of visitations of Rufous Treepie was recorded minimum as compared to other birds (Fig. 3 and Table 2). It\'s important to recognize the species that are present in the vineyard, their occurrence patterns, and the damage they cause. Bird numbers and species vary as the fruit ripens. This knowledge is crucial and probably will have an impact on the use of control measures (Tracey and Saunders, 2003).','Kiran, Dharambir Singh, Amit Kour, Renu Yadav, Priya and Parveen Gill (2022). Avian Community Composition and Behavioural Observation on Damage inflicting Avian species at the Grape Orchard. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 14(3): 1375-1379.'),(5484,'136','Factors Contributing to Attitude and the Attitudinal Proficiency of Graduates, towards Self-employment and Entrepreneurship','Ushia Rai*, Sabita Mondal, Nikhil Kumar, Sanjay V.C. and Chandan Hui','234 Factors Contributing to Attitude and the Attitudinal Proficiency of Graduates, towards Self-employment and Entrepreneurship Ushia Rai.pdf','',1,'A study has been conducted during 2020-21, with graduates, to understand the factors contributing to their attitude and attitudinal proficiency toward self-employment and entrepreneurship. 200 graduates were selected as respondents. Out of which 100 were general graduates taken from Panchanan Barma University and the rest were agricultural graduates taken from Uttar Banga Krishi Viswavidyalaya. Both universities are situated in Coochbehar District of West Bengal. The institutes were selected purposively and respondents were selected randomly. Due to the pandemic situation, physical contact with the respondents was not possible. The response was collected electronically with the help of a questionnaire, sent through google format. Statistical tools like frequency, percentage, mean, ranking and t-test were used. It has been found that proving their ability and confidence in independent decisions contributes more to building the attitude of agricultural graduates, however, profitability and more income contribute to the attitude of general graduates towards self-employment and entrepreneurship. Institutional sources like education, marketing, financial etc were found to have contributed more towards building the attitude of the graduates. Among the mass media available social media was found to be the most popular and affect the attitude of the graduates. The study found that agricultural graduates had more attitudinal proficiency compared to general graduates. The study recommends promoting the concept of entrepreneurship through formal institutions and more exposure of students to enterprises through study tours and training. The study further recommends seeing how well social media can be utilized effectively to motivate students towards self-employment and entrepreneurship. The study also highlights the importance of social media in creating awareness and attitudes of graduates towards self-employment and entrepreneurship.','Self-employment, entrepreneurship, attitude of graduates, intention of graduates','Confidence and creativity were found to be the major factor among agricultural graduates that builds their intention towards self-employment and entrepreneurship, which is probably due to the course structure offered to them by the institute. However, profitability and more earnings were found to be the major factors that contribute to the intention of general graduates. Formal institutions including educational, marketing, financial etc., were found to have a great impact on the attitude building of the graduates. In case of media, social media was time and again found to be the most popular and effective media for building the attitude of the students. Overall, it has been found agricultural graduates possess more attitudinal proficiency toward self-employment and entrepreneurship compared to general graduates. Thus, the study recommends that the course structure offered by general universities for graduates be modified as per the professional courses as well as more exposure to enterprises and markets to be provided to their students. The study further recommends seeing how well social media can be utilized effectively to motivate students towards self-employment and entrepreneurship. The study has emphasized on inclusion of more practical oriented courses as well as exposure to industries in the UG program to develop a favorable attitude towards self-employment and entrepreneurship. A similar type of program can be conducted for other professional courses also to assess the attitude of educated people towards entrepreneurship ventures.','INTRODUCTION \r\nIndia is an agriculture-based country and a nation of youth where more than 65% of the population is below the age of 35 years, (Worldometer, 2022). It has the third-largest population of technical and scientific people in the world thus, having a vast potential for agribusiness. However, on one hand, we cannot utilize its full potential and on the other hand, there is surplus technical personnel that are unemployed. Entrepreneurship is a risk-oriented and skill-oriented venture, that requires well-educated youth. Kuratko and Richard (2001) stated that entrepreneurship is the dynamic process of creating incremental wealth, which is created by individuals who take major risks in terms of equity, time and career commitment to providing value to some product or service. The product or service itself may or may not be new or unique but the entrepreneur must somehow infuse the value by securing and allocating the necessary skill and resources. In other words, it is the application of energy for initiating and building an enterprise (Fazeil et al., 2015). Of late, unemployment is found to be rising particularly more among educated people. As per CMIE\'s (2021) report, the unemployment rate across India in 2021 for graduates and higher degree holders was 19.4%. To address the issue of unemployment, the government has initiated several schemes like Stand-up India, Start-up India, Make in India, Atal Innovation Mission (AIM), STEP platform, etc. to direct the youth towards self-employment and encourage them to become a future entrepreneur. \r\nEvery year a great number of graduates are passing from different universities in India. As per different studies conducted with students, it has been found that the majority of the graduates, after completion of their graduation opt for either government jobs or choose to work for private and non -governmental organisations. Many others, desire to pursue higher education but negligible of them were found to be interested in self-employment and entrepreneurship. A study by Mehta et al. (2011) reported in the case of agriculture graduates, civil/ administrative jobs remained the most preferred choice followed by educational and research-related jobs, state government jobs, agro-based public sector and private sector and self-employment, while, general jobs and farming were the least preferred job areas. However, there is a corresponding lack of employment opportunities for graduates and professionals in the public sector. To solve this unemployment issue, entrepreneurship and self-employment can be a great opportunity to consider as a career but students have found to have an unfavourable attitude towards them. Attitude is defined by cognitive psychology as the predisposition to respond in a generally favourable or unfavourable manner concerning the object of the attitude. Hence, the present study has been conducted with the following objectives: \r\n— To find out the factors influencing intention of graduates (both general and agricultural) towards self-employment and entrepreneurship.\r\n— To study the factors contributing to attitude of the graduates (both general and agricultural) towards self-employment and entrepreneurship, and\r\n— To compare the attitudinal proficiency between general graduates and agricultural graduates towards self-employment and entrepreneurship.\r\nMATERIALS AND METHODS\r\nA. Research Locale\r\nThe study has been conducted with graduates fromUttar Banga Krishi Viswavidyalaya, an agricultural university and Panchanan Barma University, a general university in Coochbehar district of West Bengal during 2020-21. The Universities were selected purposively due to the convenience of the researcher and the availability of respondents.\r\nB. Method of data Collection\r\nA total of 200 students, 100 each from both universities was randomly selected. Thus 100 agricultural graduates and 100 general graduates constituted the sample of the study. Due to the pandemic situation, the respondents could not be contacted physically, the questionnaire in google format was sent to their mail and WhatsApp numbers and responses were collected electronically. Statistical tools like mean, percentage, rank and t-Test were used to find out the result.\r\nC. Data Analysis\r\n1. Factors influencing intention of the graduates. Total 14 factors were presented to the respondents to find out the major factors that has influenced their intention towards adopting self-employment and entrepreneurship as future career. Responses thus collected were analysed and factors were ranked according to the preferences given by the respondents.\r\n2. Contribution of various institutional and non-institutional sources of information. Respondents were asked to select among the sources of information like formal or non-formal institutional sources, social Institutional sources and supporting institutions that gives them the most required information and influence them towards building a favourable attitude towards self-employment and entrepreneurship as future endeavour. Responses thus collected were analysed and sources were ranked according to their contribution in forming the attitude of the respondents.\r\n3. Comparison between the attitudinal proficiency of general graduates and agricultural graduates. The scale of Shivacharan et al. (2017) consisting of 17 attitudinal statements was used and the responses were collected in 5-point continuum ranging from 1 to 5 with slight modification. Individual response for each statement was summed up and used for comparison of attitudinal proficiency between the two graduates. \r\nStatistical tools and Software. The statistical tools like mean, percentage, rank and t-Test were used to do the analysis. SPSS software was used for analyzing the data. \r\nRESULT AND DISCUSSION\r\n1. Factors influencing the self-employment and entrepreneurship intentions of the graduates (both agriculture and general)\r\nThe theory of reasoned action by Ajzen and Fishbein (1980) says that behaviour is best predicted by intentions, which are derived from the individual’s attitude towards performing the action and social pressures or “subjective norms”. Thus, attitude and social factors predict intentions, which in turn predict behaviour. Intentions thus serve as a mediator for action. \r\nThe decision to take up self-employment and entrepreneurship, depends on several motivational factors of intention. Motivational factors, like earning huge profits, gaining personal satisfaction as an entrepreneur and working at the location of choice etc., make self-employment more attractive. Such factors may attract and encourage young adults to start their own business (Schwarz et al., 2009; Krueger et al., 2000, Van Gelderen et al., 2008; Zhang et al., 2015; Nguyen et al., 2019).\r\nTable 1 reveals that out of 14 factors presented to both type of graduates, thought to have impact on students’ intention, it has been found that in case of agricultural graduates, (74 %) have considered confidence on independent decision as the major factor influencing their self-employment and entrepreneurship intention and has been ranked as 1st, followed by prove their ability (73%) and desire to create something new (71%) were ranked 2nd & 3rd respectively. However, for general graduates, to prove their ability (57%) was found to be the major factor that influences their self-employment and entrepreneurship intention and has been ranked 1st, followed by to prove innovation is profitable (53%) and to earn more income (49%) were ranked 2nd & 3rd respectively. Similar findings were reported by Schwarz et al. (2009); Krueger et al. (2000); Van Gelderen et al. (2008); Zhang et al. (2015); Nguyen et al. (2019). \r\n2. Factors contributing to attitude of the graduates (both general and agricultural) towards self-employment and entrepreneurship, and \r\nA. Contribution of various institutional sources of information on attitude towards self-employment and entrepreneurship.\r\nThe result of Table 2 shows that for both agriculture and general graduates, formal/non-formal institutional sources like educational institutes, marketing institutions, NGOs, agri-clinics, agribusiness centres, financing institutions etc. are the primary sources of information contributing to their attitude towards self-employment and entrepreneurship. Hence, formal/non-formal institutions were preferred over social institutions like family members, friends, neighbors, and progressive neighbors as well as over supporting institutions like MANAGE, NIESBUD, NABARD, SIDCO, MSME, DST, DIC, KVIC etc., when it comes to sources of information impacting to their attitude towards self-employment and entrepreneurship. The role of institutions in shaping the entrepreneurial activities of people has already been found by Stephan et al. (2014).\r\nB. Contribution of Media on creating awareness and building attitude of the graduates towards self- employment and entrepreneurship.\r\nTable 3 shows that social media, viz; Facebook, twitter, Instagram, youtube, LinkedIn WhatsApp, google was found to be the major media contributing in creating awareness and building attitude towards self-employment and entrepreneurship for both agriculture and general graduates. Thus, social media has been ranked 1st, found to be most popular among all other medium and preferred over other medium meant for spreading awareness and building attitude like Mass media (TV, Radio, Mobile phone, Internet, Newspaper, Magazines, Poster etc.) and extension activities (Kisan Mela, Exposure to enterprise, educational tour/visit, training related to Entrepreneurship).\r\nThe result is in line with the findings of Tran & Von Korflesch(2016) report, where social networking sites were found to allow people to develop a profile and interact with a number of users. \r\n3.Comparison between the attitudinal proficiency of agricultural and general graduates.\r\nBy attitudinal proficiency we mean how apt or competent is person’s attitude towards some idea, so in order to find the attitudinal proficiency of agricultural and general graduates, the sum of the attitude scores of both graduates were taken and comparison was done between the two samples with the help of t-Test.\r\nIt has been revealed from the Table 4 that there is a significant difference in the mean of attitude of agricultural and general graduates. So, the study concludes that there is a significant difference between the attitude of agriculture graduates and general and that the agricultural graduates possess more attitudinal proficiency towards self-employment and entrepreneurship compared to general graduates. The same might be true because Agricultural universities as an institution exposes their students more into profession courses and field exposure. They offer a full semester dedicated to provide them industrial and entrepreneur exposure.\r\n','Ushia Rai, Sabita Mondal, Nikhil Kumar, Sanjay V.C. and Chandan Hui (2022).Factors Contributing to Attitude and the Attitudinal Proficiency of Graduates, towards Self-employment and Entrepreneurship. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 14(3): 1380-1384.'),(5485,'136','Effect of Novel Sources of Nutrients, their Dose and Mode of Application on Yield, quality and Profitability of Indian Mustard [Brassica juncea (L.) Czern & Coss]','Sandeep Kumar Verma, N.S. Rana, Vivek, B.P. Dhyani, Bhim Singh4, Aparna Verma and Durgesh Kumar Maurya\r\n','235 Effect of Novel Sources of Nutrients, their Dose and Mode of Applicationon Yield, quality and Profitability of Indian Mustard [Brassica juncea _L.pdf','',1,'In order to evaluate the “Effect of Novel Sources of Nutrients, their Dose and Mode of Application on Yield, Quality and profitability of Indian Mustard [Brassica juncea (L.) Czern & Coss]” the investigation was carried out on well drained sandy clay loam soil, low in organic carbon and available nitrogen, medium in available phosphorus, potassium, sulphur and zinc and moderately alkaline in pH during 2020-21 at crop research centre of Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel University of Agriculture and Technology, Meerut (U.P.). Novel nutrient sources and their modes of applications with 12 treatments consisting of control, basal application of recommended dose 100% NPK & S (120:40:40:20), 75% NPK&S (90:30:30:15) + NPK (18:18:18) 0.5% spray + NPK Consortia (seed treatment 50 ml in 0.6 litre water for 6 kg seed) + Bio-stimulant (625 ml ha-1) + Nano N (4 ml l-1) + Nano Zn (10 ml l-1) + zinc sulphate 5 kg ha-1 in various combinations were attempted on mustard variety Pusa Vijay in RBD with three replications.\r\nThe results of the study revealed that mustard grown with 100% NPK & S + Nano Zn spray attainted significantly maximum grain yield (24.9 q ha-1), stover yield (113.8 q ha-1) and biological yield (138.6 q ha-1) which was increased by 33.87%, 64.2% and 57.67% as compared to recommended dose of fertilizers respectively. The highest oil content (39.2%) and oil yield (976.1 kg ha-1) was also recorded with 100% NPK & S + Nano Zn spray. Thus, the mustard crop grown with application of 100 % NPK&S + nano Zn sprayhad attained maximum yield (grain, stover and biological), oil content and yield, fetched higher net returns with higher B:C ratio.\r\n','Nano fertilizers, Bio stimulants, NPK consortia, NPK (18:18:18), profitability and Indian mustard','In view of foregoing facts, it remains no more obscure that nutrient management practices had a significant and profound effect on yield, oil (content & yield) and monetary returns of the crops. Application of nano-nutrient N and Zn, bio-stimulants, NPK consortia, NPK (18:18:18) individually and simultaneously enhanced grain yield and oil (content & yield) significantly. Further, nano/bio nano sources (N & Zn) have potential to promote growth and yield formation in mustard. Mustard crop fertilized with 100% NPK & S (120:40:40:20) + nano Zn (10 ml l-1) spray at 40 DAS resulted significantly higher grain yield as compared to 100% NPK & S and control, but remained at par with 75% NPK & S along with nano- nutrients, bio-stimulants and Zn 5 kg ha-1. However, the net returns (` 95800 ha-1) were highest when 100% NPK & S + Nano Zn spray were used, being higher by ` 30605 ha-1 than 100% NPK & S. Nutrient management practices with nano nutrients, bio-stimulants, NPK consortia, NPK (18:18:18) proved scientifically and economically practices for nutrient management in mustard.','INTRODUCTION\r\nRapeseed and mustard are 3rd important edible oil seed crops of India next to groundnut and soybean. India has 12-15% of the world’s area under oilseed but account for less than 6-7 % of world’s production to meet the need of about 17% of world population. Total area, production and productivity of rapeseed-mustard in world during 2020-21 were 36.12 million hectares (mha), 72.29 million metric tonnes (mmt) and 2000 kg ha-1, respectively. India ranked 2nd in terms of area after Canada and 4th position in term of production after Canada, European Union and China under rapeseed and mustard in the world with 8.20 (mha) area, 10.4 (mt) production and producing an average of 1040 kg ha-1 (USDA report, 2020-21). In India, Uttar Pradesh is having 2nd position in terms of area (0.69 mha), and holds 4th position in term of production (0.89 mt) and producing an average (1290 kg ha-1) (Ministry of Agriculture and Farmers Welfare 2019-20).\r\nIndia has ever increasing population. According to an estimate, it is going to reach 1.42 and 1.48 billion by 2025 and 2030 respectively. Further, the living standard is also improving resulting in enhanced per capita edible oil consumption. The annual growth of demand for edible oil would be 3.54% during 2011-2030. Accordingly, it is estimated that the per capita edible oil consumption would be 23.1 kg annum-1 by the year 2030 from the present level of 16.38 kg annum-1. Therefore, to attain the self-sufficiency in edible oil 34.10 mt of edible oil equivalent to about 102.3 mt of oilseeds would be required (DRMR., 2011).\r\nRape-seed and mustard 8% share in edible oil production holds promise for self-sufficiency of India in term oilseeds. Crop productivity in India is very poor being 1040 kg ha-1 as against world’s average of 2000 kg ha-1, 3810 kg ha-1 in Chile and 3150 kg ha-1 in European Union (USDA report, 2020-21). Cultivation of oilseed crops particularly rape-seed and mustard in marginal land with resource constraints has been a major bottleneck in realizing its yields potential in India. Resource poor farmers are not able to adopt scientific technologies regarding crop management particularly the nutrients. Under marginal resource situation, cultivation of mustard becomes not as much of remunerative to the farmers. This results in a big gap between requirement and production of mustard in India.\r\nThe rapeseed-mustard crop growing areas are also witnessing situations that lead to decline in fertility and in turn poor productivity. The nutrient requirement of the Indian mustard in general is high and inadequate supply of nutrient often leads to low nutrient use efficiency. Continuous and sole application of inorganic fertilizer induces the soil sickness and disturbs the soil environment to result in low productivity and unsustainability. The application of urea, DAP and MOP have been found to have lower fertilizer efficiency which ranges from 20 - 50 % for nitrogen, 10-25 % for phosphorus, 70-80 % for potassium and 2% for micronutrient owing to various losses which not only contribute to the greenhouse gases emission, certain health hazards such as blue baby syndrome and increase in cost of cultivation. In the context nanotechnology (Nano/Bio nano fertilizers), bio-stimulants and biofertilizers hold promise and can go a long way in sustaining soil health and crop production.\r\nNanoparticles (dimensions on the order of magnitude 10-9) are a small with at least one dimension less than 100 nm. It should be in such a way that they possess all desired properties such as higher surface area, stability, effectiveness, enhanced targeted activity with less ecotoxicity. NPK Consortia contains selective strains of nitrogen fixing bacteria, PSB, and potash mobilizing bacteria which helps to improve availability of NPK to crops. It mobilizes & converts insoluble plant nutrients to soluble & makes it available to plants. Seaweed extracts supplies nitrogen, phosphorus, potash as well as trace minerals like Zn, Mn, Mg, Fe etc. Bio-stimulants (Sea weed) extract contains natural plant growth substances like Auxins, Gibberellins and Cytokinins. The micro nutrients present in Seaweed extract are in naturally chelated form and are readily available to the plants. Seaweed has been found effective for enhancing yield, pest and frost resistance in vegetable, fruits, flowers, cereals, oilseed and pulses. Sulphur is an important nutrient for the obtaining of higher yield and quality oilseed crops. It is essential for the synthesis of proteins, vitamins and chlorophyll. Foliar spray of water-soluble fertilizers also helps to obtain higher production and productivity of the crop. \r\nThe use of balance fertilization by the application of nano nutrients, biofertilizers (Azotobacter, Azospirillium, PSB, KMB) and Bio-stimulants seems to be of great significance, so as to attain economic yield without any deleterious effect on ecological balance. Information in this respect is meager, hence to meet the national targets and increase seed yield, through adoption of technology inputs, as well as to meet the international targets of quality oilseed.\r\nMATERIAL AND METHODS\r\nExperimental Site. The experiment was conducted at crop research centre of the university located in Indo-Gangetic plains of western Uttar Pradesh. At 29°5′ 34′′N latitude, 77°41′ 58′′ E longitudes and at an elevation of 230 meters above the mean sea level. Meerut lies 65 km away from Delhi on the national highway 58 linking New Delhi and Dehradun.\r\nClimate and weather condition. Meerut enjoys semi-arid and sub-tropical climate with extremely hot summer and cold winter, minimum and maximum temperature both exhibit a gradual decrease starting from first week of October and reach their minimum in December and January. An increase in the temperature is recorded with effect from 1st week of February and peak value is noticed in 2nd week of May. Occasional frost is also experienced during 2nd fortnight of December and January. The mean weekly minimum temperature records as low as 4.3°C in 2nd week of January. Whereas, mean weekly maximum temperature reaches as high as 36.9°C in 4th week of April. The area receives mean annual rainfall of 800 mm of which more than 80 % during the months of July- September through south-west monsoon. A few winter showers are also received. April and May are the driest months with mean relative humidity of 50 to 55 %, whereas high humidity (92%) is recorded in the month of August. Daily observation on temperature, humidity, sunshine hours and rainfall recorded at meteorological observatory of Gramin Krishi Mausam Sewa Project, SVPUA&T, Meerut - India were collected to work out weekly means as presented in Appendix I and Fig. 1. The crop experienced lowest (4.9°C) of mean weekly minimum temperature in 4thweek of December and highest (32.2°C) in 2nd week of March during 2021. 2nd week of January was most humid (94.86%), however the driest (32.86%) crop season was the 2nd week of March. The crop received rainfall (39.8 mm) during its period.\r\nSoil of the experiment field. A composite soil sample from a depth of 15 cm was taken from the experimental field before initiating the experiment for analysing various soil properties. The soil was sandy clay loam, low in organic carbon and available nitrogen, medium in available phosphorus, available potassium, available sulphur, available zinc and moderately alkaline in reaction.\r\nVariety description. Pusa Vijay (NPJ-93) is a high yielding variety possesses tolerance to different abiotic stresses viz. high temperature at seedling stage and salinity up to 12 dS m-1. It is suitable for timely sown irrigated conditions. Average seed yield of this variety is 25.0 q ha-1 along with 38.51 % oil content. It takes about 145 days reach to maturity. It is a bold seeded variety. It was released in 2008 at IARI, New Delhi.\r\nTreatments. The fertilizer application was done as per treatments. The recommended dose of NPK & S was taken as 120:40:40:20kg ha-1 of N, P2O5, K2O, and S respectively where ever required. Nitrogen, phosphorus, potassium and sulphur were given through urea (46% N), DAP (18 % N & 46% P2O5), MOP (60% K2O) and bentonite sulphur (90% S) respectively. Total amount of P, K, S, Zn and 50% of nitrogen were applied at the time of sowing and remaining half of nitrogen was top dressed in two equal splits after first and second irrigation. Nano Nitrogen (4 ml litre-1), Bio nano zinc (10 ml litre-1), NPK 18:18:18 (5 g litre-1), bio-stimulants (625 ml ha-1) were applied by mixing in 500 litre of water ha-1. The sprays were given 40 days after sowing as per treatments. Where ever, more than one nutrient was required they all were mixed in some 500 litre of water and sprayed in a single run. Hand pressure sprayer fitted with flat fan nozzle.\r\nRESULT AND DISCUSSION\r\nSeed yield (q ha-1). The data pertaining to seed yield are presented in (Table & Fig. 1). Higher seed yield (24.9 q ha-1) was recorded with 100% NPK & S + Nano Zn spray which was at par with 100% NPK & S + Zn (24.0 q ha-1), 100% NPK & S + Bio-stimulants spray (22.7 q ha-1) and 75% NPK & S + Zn + Bio-stimulants spray + Nano N + Nano Zn spray (22.4 q ha-1). On an average there was increased in seed yield 33.87% & 91.53% as compared to 100% NPK & S (18.6 q ha-1) and control (13.0 q ha-1) respectively. A significant increase in grain yield with integrated use of nano, biostimulants and inorganic fertilizers was also reported by Mehta (2017); Khan et al. (2009). In preceding section, it was well emphasized that nano nutrient (N and Zn), bio-stimulants with inorganic fertilizers markedly improved overall growth and yield attributes and finally that increased yield of the crop. Proper nourishment of the plants as evinced by the nutrient content and uptake by the crop and consequent low mortality also supported the finding. Besides, nano-N & Zn led promote turn of absorb the water and soil nutrients, then the photosynthesis has been suggested by Wu (2013). A number of studies proved the significance of nano-fertilizers. For instance, Rathore et al. (2019), obtained higher grain yield in rice with the application of nano-K fertilizer. This agreement with the findings of Liu et al. (2009); Sheikhbaglou et al. (2010); Sirisena et al. (2013); Jafarzadeh et al. (2013); Kumar et al. (2014); Hafeez et al. (2015); Aziz et al. (2016).\r\nStover yield (q ha-1). Data pertaining to stover yield as influenced by various treatments is given in (Table & Fig. 1). Stover yield was found significantly higher in the treatment having 100% NPK & S + Nano Zn spray (113.8 q ha-1) and it was found on at par with the treatments 100% NPK & S + Zn (104.8 q ha-1),100% NPK & S + Bio-stimulants spray (104.2 q ha-1) and 75% NPK & S + Zn + Bio-stimulants spray + Nano N + Nano Zn spray (102.5 q ha-1) and lowest stover yield was found in control (55.6 q ha-1). \r\nBiological yield (q ha-1). The data pertaining to biological yield are presented in (Table & Fig. 1). Various treatments have significant effect on biological yield of mustard crop. Maximum biological yield was recorded with 100% NPK & S + Nano Zn spray (138.6 q ha-1) and was statistically at par with 100% NPK & S + Zn (128.8 q ha-1), 100% NPK & S + Bio-stimulants spray (127.0 q ha-1) and 75% NPK & S + Zn + Bio- stimulants spray + Nano N + Nano Zn spray (124.9 q ha-1) treatments. However, lowest biological yield per hectare was recorded under control (75.1 q ha-1). \r\nHarvest index (%). The data on harvest index are presented in (Table & Fig. 1). Higher value of harvest index (21.1) was recorded with the application of NPK & S 120:40:40:20 kg ha-1 and varied non significantly with different treatment. However, lowest value of harvest index reported with 75% NPKS + NPK (18:18:18) 0.5% spray + Bio-stimulants spray (17.4%) treatment. \r\nOil content (%). The data on oil content given in (Table & Fig. 2). The data reveled non-significant effect at nutrient management options on oil content of mustard seed. A critical examination of the data reveled that higher oil content was recorded under 100% NPK & S + Nano Zn spray (39.2 %) treatment and lowest oil content was recorded under control (38.1%). \r\nOil yield (kg ha-1). The effect of different nutrients on oil yield was found to be significant (Table & Fig. 2). The oil yield was found higher under the application of 100% NPK & S + Nano Zn spray (976.1 kg ha-1) treatment which was at par with 100% NPK & S + Zn (936.0 kg ha-1) treatments. However, lowest amount of oil yield was obtained under control (495.3 kg ha-1) treatment. In case of control treatment low oil yield because of inadequate amount of nutrient available to the crop and also poor yield of crop. A similar finding was reported by Kumar (2015).\r\nCost of cultivation. The data given in the Table 3 exhibited variation in cost of cultivation from ` 25482 ha-1 for the crop grown without nutrient application to ` 37488 ha-1 for the crop grown with 75% NPK & S + Zn + Bio-stimulants spray + Nano N + Nano Zn spray. The maximum cost of cultivation under 75% NPK & S + Zn + Bio-stimulants spray + Nano N + Nano Zn spray is due to applied of various sources of nutrients. The cost of cultivation was increased by 47.11% in the treatment 75% NPK & S + Zn + Bio-stimulants spray + Nano N + Nano Zn spray as against control. Similar findings reported by have been reported by Rathore et al. (2019); Kumar et al. (2015).\r\nGross returns. The data pertaining to gross return are presented in Table (3). Gross returns varied from ` 68790 ha-1 for the crop rose with no nutrient application to the highest of ` 132855 ha-1 from the crop raised with 100% NPK & S + Nano Zn spray. The increased in gross return under treatment 100% NPK & S + Nano Zn spray ` 64065 as against control and ` 35985 as against NPK & S (120:40:40:20). \r\nNet returns. Perusal of data presented in Table (3) revealed that higher net returns were fetched with different nutrient management practices in comparison to control. The crop grown with 100% NPK & S + Nano Zn spray fetched highest net returns of ` 95800 ha-1followed by 100% NPK & S + Zn ` 94562 ha-1. In case of 75% RDF, crop receiving 75% NPK & S + Zn + Bio-stimulants spray + Nano N + Nano Zn spray gave higher net return by ` 38739 ha-1 than control and ` 16852 ha-1 than NPK & S (120:40:40:20).\r\nB: C ratio. The data pertaining to B: C ratios are presented in Table (3). The B: C ratio was highest (3.9) in the crop grown with 100% NPK & S + Zn and lowest (2.7) in Control. The B: C ratio under the treatments was in the descending order of 100% NPK & S + Zn> 100% NPK & S + Bio-stimulants spray > 100% NPK & S + Nano Zn spray> 75% NPKS + NPK (18:18:18) 0.5% spray + Bio-stimulants spray> 75% NPK & S + Nano N spray> 75% NPK & S + NPK Consortia + Nano Zn spray=75% NPKS + NPK (18:18:18) 0.5% spray=75% NPK & S + Zn + Bio-stimulants spray + Nano N + Nano Zn spray> NPK & S (120:40:40:20)> 75% NPK & S + NPK Consortia> Control. Similar findings reported by have been reported by Rathore et al. (2019); Kumar et al. (2015).\r\n \r\n','Sandeep Kumar Verma, N.S. Rana, Vivek, B.P. Dhyani, Bhim Singh, Aparna Verma and Durgesh Kumar Maurya (2022). Effect of Novel Sources of Nutrients, their Dose and Mode of Application on Yield, quality and Profitability of Indian Mustard [Brassica Juncea (L.) Czern & Coss]. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 14(3): 1385-1390.'),(5486,'136','Assessing the effects of different Media, Temperature and pH on the Growth and Sclerotial Formation of Rhizoctonia solani Kuhn causing web Blight of Urdbean','Shalu Chandel*, Sanjeev Kumar, Akshay Salbarde and Shubham Mishra','236 Assessing the effects of different Media, Temperature and pH on the Growth and Sclerotial Shalu Chandel.pdf','',1,'Rhizoctonia solani Kuhn, a primary urdbean pathogen, produces web blight disease, which causes significant crop losses in all of Madhya Pradesh\'s key urdbean-growing regions. A range of abiotic elements influence this soil-borne disease. The current study looked at medium, pH, and temperature as the three key factors that influence Rhizoctonia solani development and sclerotia formation. Each of the three, including the media, Temperature and pH have a significant impact on the rate of growth of fungal mycelial and sclerotial production. Fungal growth on PDA was most active at pH 7.0 and 30°C. There was no growth observed below 15°C.','Media, Ph. Rhizoctonia solani Temperature, Web blight','Rhizoctonia solani Kuhn, a primary urdbean pathogen, produces web blight disease, which causes significant crop losses in all of Madhya Pradesh\'s key urdbean-growing regions. The current study looked at medium, pH, and temperature as the three key factors that influence Rhizoctonia solani development and sclerotia formation. The test pathogen growth on PDA was most active at pH 7.0 and 30°C.','INTRODUCTION\r\nVigna mungo (L.) Hepper\'s Urdbean is an important pulse crop of Madhya Pradesh It is a nutritious, short duration crop with a good source of digestive protein (25-28%), carbohydrate (62-65%), fiber (3.5-4.5), ash (4.5-5.5) on dry basis. it also contains a lot of phosphoric acid (Singh, 1982). In India during kharif 2020-21, area covered under black gram is 30.48 lakh ha with the production of 19.48 lakh tones and 441 kg/ha productivity. Madhya Pradesh is the major producer of black gram with 14.38 lakh ha area and 8.29 lakh tons production (Annonymous, 2020). \r\nThe fundamental cause for urd bean\'s low production is the crop\'s vulnerability to a variety of biotic and abiotic limitations. Among the biotic constraints, urdbean Web blight caused by Rhizoctonia solani Kuhn [Teleomorph stage: Thanatephorous cucumeris (Frank) Donk] is regarded as one of the most serious. Depending on the circumstances, yield losses from this illness range from 20 to 30%. Water soaking areas on the leaves are followed by browning or necrotic circular lesions. As a result, infected leaves die and fall off, and pod symptoms include irregular brown lesions that may merge to form big areas, as well as seed damage on affected pods (Dwivedi and Saxena 1974) which causes significant loss to the crop and economic loss to the farmers. On collar region, reddish brown lesion occurs causing collar rot and resulting in stem canker symptoms (Kaiser, 1970).\r\nThe best physiological conditions for growth and sclerotia generation vary depending on the isolate of R. solani, with lower and higher optimal values observed for different isolates (Goswami et al., 2011; Muhsin and Selman 2013). There is currently insufficient information on the survival of R. solani isolated from urdbean in Madhya Pradesh. With the importance of web blight disease of urdbean caused by pathogen R. solani Kuhn in mind, the current study was carried out to determine the influence of different culture media, temperature, and pH on R. solani growth and sclerotia generation.\r\nMATERIAL METHOD\r\nIsolation of pathogen. The leaves of urdbean, which had the typical indications of web blight disease, were gathered from the research farm of Jawaharlal Nehru Krishi Vishwa Vidyalaya in Jabalpur, Madhya Pradesh. Pathogen isolation was performed on lesions that presented the early and prominent clinical signs. To eliminate residual soil and control surface contamination, infected leaves were rinsed with sterile water. Young diseased leaves were cut into 2 to 3 mm pieces with a sterilized blade (containing 2/3 healthy and 1/3 sick portions). These leaf fragments have been surface sterilized. After sterilization, leaf pieces were rinsed three times with distilled water in a solution of 1% sodium hypochlorite. Then, under aseptic circumstances in the inoculation chamber, they were put on pre-sterilized blotter paper to make them free of any excessive moisture. The pieces of the diseased leaves were transferred directly to the PDA (Potato Dextrose Agar) medium. Petri plates were kept in BOD incubator at a temperature of 30±°C for 48 hrs.\r\nIdentification of the isolate of R. solani. The pathogen was identified on the basis of cultural and morphological traits. Slide was prepared with lactophenol stain and for the morphological characteristics inspected under a compound microscope.\r\nCultural characteristics and Radial growth. Rhizoconia solani cultural features were investigated using seven different culture media, including Potato Dextrose Agar (PDA), Czapek\'s Dox Agar (CZDA), Asthana and Hawkers agar, Coons agar, Richard\'s medium, Browns agar, and Ashby\'s agar. Each culture medium was prepared in one litre of water and autoclaved for 20 minutes at 121.6°C and 15 pressure. After cooling to 45°C, they were placed on 90 mm Petri plates for solidification.\r\nEffect of different temperature level on radial growth and sclerotia formation of R. solani. To investigate the influence of temperature on the radial growth of R. solani isolated from urdbean, five different temperatures were chosen: 10, 15, 25, 30, and 35°C. Each therapy was repeated three times. Each Petri plate received 20 ml of sterilized PDA medium. When the media had set, equal mycelial discs (5 mm in diameter for fungal growth) were cut with a sterilized cork borer and inserted (inoculated) in the center of each Petri plate. For radial development and sclerotia production, the inoculated Petri plates were incubated at various temperatures. The radial growth of the fungus was observed after 48 and 96 hours.\r\nEffect of various pH levels on radial growth and sclerotia formation of R. solani. The set of different pH levels of 5, 5.5, 6, 6.5, 7, 7.5, and 8 were created, and pH was altered in the PDA medium by adding suitable amounts of HCL and NaOH. There were three replications for each pH value. PDA was used as the basal medium. The media was pipetted into a 100 ml Erlenmeyer flask, and the pH of the medium was adjusted to get the appropriate level by adding 0.1 N HCL or 0.1 NaOH. With the use of a sterilized cork borer, the flasks containing sterilized medium were infected with a 5 mm mycelial disc cut from the margin of a 3 day old culture of R. solani. To quantify mycelial growth, inoculated Petri plates were incubated at 301°C for 72 hours.\r\nRESULT AND DISCUSSION \r\nEffect of solid different solid and liquid media culture media. All the tested media supported the growth of R. solani varied significantly on all media tested. PDA supported maximum mycelial growth (90 mm) and also support sclerotia production followed by Czapek’s dox Agar (88.3 mm), Richard’s agar and coon’s agar (72.1 mm) (Table 1). The Brown’`s agar, Asthana and Hawker’s agar and supported mycelial growth to the tune of 65.3, 60.3 and 23.3 mm respectively. No sclerotia production was found Asthana and Hawker’s agar and Ashby’s agar medium. Minimum mycelial growth was recorded on Ashby’s agar (23.3 mm). Growth pattern was observed as abundant in Potato dextrose agar Czapek’s Dox agar and Richard’s agar medium and moderate in Asthana and Hawker’s agar, Coon’s agar and Brown’s agar whereas slight were found in Ashby’s agar. Ritchie et al. (2009) concluded from their study that in all the tested isolates of R. solani number of sclerotia produced were more when they were grown on PDA. Sharma et al. (2013); Kumar et al. (2014) also reported that PDA medium supported maximum mycelial growth which support the result of present study.\r\nAmong the various liquid media tested, significantly higher dry mycelial weight and microsclerotia formation was yielded in Potato dextrose broth (776.0 mg) as compared to the rest of the liquid media. The next best medium in order of merit was Richard’s broth (602.0 mg). Jha and Dubey (2000); Tandel et al. (2012) also found maximum mycelial and microsclerotia production of R. solani on Richard’s medium followed by potato dextrose broth. Tandel et al. (2012) also found maximum mycelial and microsclerotia production of R. solani on potato dextrose broth. The present finding tallies with present results.\r\nEffect of various temperature levels on radial growth and sclerotia formation of R. solani. The maximum radial growth (88.2 mm) and sclerotia production was recorded at 30°C followed by 25°C (79.2 mm), 20°C (72.2 mm), 35°C (65.5 mm), 40°C (29.2 mm) after 96 hrs. The minimum radial growth (18.3 mm) was recorded at 10 °C after 96 hrs (Table 2). Growth pattern was observed as abundant in 25 and 30°C and moderate at 20 and 35°C and slight at 10, 15 and 40°C. Hemalatha and Singh (2019) reported that 30°C temperature found significantly superior in mycelia radial growth which supports our findings. Singh et al. (1974) found that fungal growth of R. solani was maximum at 30°C. Tiwari and Khare (2002) reported optimum hyphal growth at 25°C while sclerotia production was observed at 30-35°C in various media. \r\nEffect of various pH on radial growth and sclerotia formation of R. solani. The optimal pH for the radial growth and sclerotia formation of R. solani was 7 followed by 6.5 and 7.5. A pH of 8 and 5 was the least favorable for the pathogen (Table 3). Singh et al. (1974) reported similar results and observed that pH 7.0 was good for mycelia growth as well as sclerotial production of R. solani. Datta et al. (2014) reported that best growth and sclerotia formation of R. solani occurred best at pH 6.0.\r\n','Shalu Chandel, Sanjeev Kumar, Akshay Salbarde and Shubham Mishra (2022). Assessing the Effects of Different Media, Temperature and pH on the Growth and Sclerotial Formation of Rhizoctonia solani Kuhn causing web Blight of Urdbean. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 14(3): 1391-1394.'),(5487,'136','Effect of Post-harvest Treatments on Vase Life quality of Dendrobium orchid cv. Sonia-17','Koushik Nag and Goutam Mandal','237 Effect of Post-harvest Treatments on Vase Life quality of Dendrobium orchid cv. Sonia-17 Koushik Nag.pdf','',1,'Dendrobium, one of the largest genera of the family Orchidaceae, is a popular tropical orchid, grown commercially as a cut flower. The experiment was carried out in the laboratory of Howrah Krishi Vigyan Kendra, Jagatballavpur, Howrah, West Bengal. The main objective was to improve the vase life and quality of the cut flowers of dendrobium. The cut spikes were pulsed with solutions containing different concentrations and combinations of 8-HQS (Hydroxyquinoline Sulfate), silver nitrate, sodium hypochlorite, sucrose, and nano silver (NS). Pulsing time was for 24 hours. The treated flowers were then submerged in distilled water that was replaced every 2 days until the experiment was over. Results demonstrated that maximum water uptake (15.78 g spike-1), water balance (4.63 g spike-1), fresh weight (28.38 g spike-1) and vase life (21.31 days) with minimum un-opened and abscised buds per spike (8.12%) were found when the spikes were pulsed with 8-HQS (200ppm) and nano silver @ 5 g lt.-1 along with 4% sucrose. Maximum bud opening (89.94%) and delayed floret senescence were recorded when flower spikes were pulsed with nano silver @ 5 g lt.-1 in combination with sodium hypochlorite @ 7 ml.lt-1 and 4% sucrose. A minimum vase life of 13.05 days as well as the lowest bud opening percentage (65.99%) were recorded when the spikes were pulsed with distilled water only. According to the results of the experiment, cut dendrobium flowers of the variety Sonia-17 should be pulsed with 8-HQS (200 ppm) along with nano silver @ 5 g lt.-1 and 4% sucrose in order to reduce microbial growth in the vase solution and extend the vase life of the flowers. Additional research is required to improve the post-harvest attributes of dendrobium cut flowers using varying pulsing durations.','Dendrobium orchid, vase life, pulsing, 8-HQS, Nano Silver, sucrose','Based on the outcome obtained from the experiment by using different biocides as pulsing chemicals along with sugar, the biocides containing 8-HQS and nano-silver with other combinations showed improved post-harvest life and quality of dendrobium cut flowers. In this study, it was revealed that 8-HQS (200 ppm) in combination with nano silver @ 5 g lt-1 and 4% sucrose was the most effective treatment for reducing microbial growth in the floral tissue, which had increased vase life, bud opening percentages, and fresh weight in cut dendrobium flowers. ','INTRODUCTION\r\nOrchids are widely grown for commercial purposes as cut flowers because of their high demand in both domestic and foreign markets. One of the biggest genera in the orchidaceae family, dendrobium is a popular tropical orchid that is cultivated for the production of cut flowers commercially. Post-harvest rejection of cut flowers occurs most often. It\'s crucial to develop post-harvest remedies to prevent problems of vase life. The post-harvest life of cut flowers refers to how long a cut flower keeps looking fresh while being presented in a vase or how long it lasts in a vase solution. The physiological processes that take place in the leaves, stem, flower buds, leafless peduncles, or scapes linking the bud to the stem result in the post-harvest behaviours of flowers. Excessive water loss, a decline in respirable substrates, and sensitivity to exogenous or endogenous ethylene, which hastens flower ageing and wilting, are problems with cut flowers\' vase life (Hew, 1994).\r\nOne of the primary causes of the short vase life of many cut flowers is the presence of microorganisms like bacteria, fungi, or yeast in the holding solutions. During the cut flower\'s vase life, all microorganisms block water absorption by disrupting xylem tissue. These obstructions could result from microbial growth, tylose production, material sedimentation in xylem channel lumens, or the growth of air emboli in the vascular system (Twumasi et al., 2005). In order to extend the vase life, preserve bloom size, and improve colour, chemical formulations known as floral preservatives are applied. Pulsing is the process by which chemical solutions containing sugars and germicides are absorbed through the lower cut bases of flower stems. The growers short-term pre-shipment procedure known as \"pulsing\" should have an impact on the bloom for the duration of its shelf life. The opening of buds after storage is improved by pulsing flowers before storage (Somani, 2009). The vase life of cut flowers is increased by pulsing with 4 mM STS for 10 minutes in the case of Aranda orchids (Hew et al., 1987), and in Dendrobium hybrid ‘Pompadour’ by pulsing with 25 ppm AgNO3 + 135 Na2S2O3, 5H2O for 30 minutes (Hew and Yong 2004). \r\nThe highest vase life of 21.33 days was recorded after pulsing was conducted with 4% sucrose + 400 ppm HQS for six hours in dendrobium cv. Sonia-17 (Jomy, 1998). When inflorescences were pulsed with 6% sucrose and 400 ppm HQS, the highest recorded sugar content (27.64%) in the flowers was found (Jomy and Sabina 2002). Bhatia et al. (2002) studied the effects of pulsing, dry storage (2°C) and holding solution on the vase life of carnation cut flowers cv. Impala (standard) and purple chopin (spray). The cut flowers were pulsed by distinct holding solutions like STS (25, 50, 75, 100 ppm) and HQC (25, 50, 75, 100 ppm) along with 2% sucrose for different durations (4, 6 and 8 hrs) and it was observed that 100 ppm HQC + 2% sucrose resulted in increased flower diameter, water uptake and reduced fresh weight losses. The suppression of microbial growth in vase solution was found to delay wilting in many cut flowers. Nano silver is a novel antibacterial compound that can kill 650 species of bacteria in water (Furno et al., 2004).\r\nLiu et al. (2009) conformed that pulsing of 15 mg lt-1 nano silver along with 2% sucrose improved the vase life three cut flowers like carnation (19.9 ± 2.6 days), rose (9.6 ±1.3 days) and gerbera (8.9 ± 0.3 days) over control. The pulse treatment of cut flowers with nano silver, 8-HQS, sodium hypochlorite, and sucrose in various combinations increases mineral salt intake, reduces transpiration rate by influencing stomatal closure, and results in optimal supply of carbohydrates and improved vase life. The goal of the current study was to use various pulse treatments to prolong the vase life of cut spikes of the orchid dendrobium var. Sonia-17.\r\nMATERIAL AND METHODS\r\nThe present investigation on Effect of post-harvest treatments on vase life quality of Dendrobium orchid cultivar Sonia-17 was carried out in the laboratory of Howrah Krishi Vigyan Kendra, Jagatballavpur, Howrah, West Bengal.\r\nTreatment details\r\nThe required number of conical flasks were washed, weighed, and labelled as per the schedule of treatments. Similarly, a calculated quantity of each chemical, viz., 8-HQS, AgNO3, Sodium hypochlorite, Nano-silver, and Sucrose, were weighed and then dissolved in the required quantity of distilled water to make the required concentration as per the technical programme.\r\nDendrobium flower spikes were collected from the plants grown under the shade house of Howrah KVK. Harvesting was done in the morning. The flowers were harvested at 3–4 lower buds\' opening stage. Harvesting was carried out manually with care to minimise damage and mechanical injuries. Pre-cooling was accomplished by immediately immersing in cold water. Post-harvest precautions include keeping the basal of the spike in water till it reaches the laboratory and a slant cut to a uniform length of 5 cm under distilled water to remove any surface embolism. The flower spikes were immediately transferred to a vase containing a different pulsing solution. The experiment was conducted in a well-ventilated, well-illuminated laboratory.\r\nCut spikes were pulsed with solutions containing different concentrations and combinations of HQS, silver nitrate, sodium hypochlorite, sucrose, nano silver, etc., and control stems were treated with distilled water. Pulsing time was for 24 hours. The treated flowers were then submerged in distilled water that was to be replaced every 2 days until the experiment was over.\r\nThe observations on various quality parameters and vase life on alternate days till the termination of experiment were recorded. When the petals showed 60% wilting, the vase life was considered to be over.\r\nThe dataset was subjected to statistical analysis as per the procedure outlined by Panse and Sukhatme (1985). Results from vase life experiments were analyzed using analysis of variance (ANOVA) and F-test analysis. The least significant difference (LSD or CD) was used for the comparison between treatments during vase life.\r\nRESULT AND DISCUSSION\r\nWater uptake. Water uptake was recorded at maximum ( 15.78 g spike-1) with 8-HQS(200ppm) + nano silver @ 5 g lt-1 + 4% sucrose (T7) which is statistically at par with nano silver @ 5 g lt-1 + sodium hypochlorite @7 ml lt-1 + 4% sucrose (T10) solution in comparison to minimum absorption (8.65 g) for control (T1). Water uptake trends revealed significant differences among treatments as the days progressed (Table 1). Chemical preservatives like nano silver and 8-HQS prevent microbial growth, avoiding vascular obstruction and thus making it easier for spikes to absorb water. This suggests that the synergistic effect of those chemicals on increasing vase life was the result of a suppression of microbial growth (Ketsa et al., 1995), resulting in increased water uptake. 8-HQS (8-hydroxyquinoline sulphate) is a major anti-microbial agent which prevents the buildup of microorganisms in the xylem vessels and hence maintains the water uptake rate at an adequate concentration of 200-600 mg lt-1 (Fonseca et al., 2017). Meman and Dabhi (2007) also observed that applying chemical preservatives and sucrose in pulsing to cut gerbera improved solution uptake and vase life.\r\n Water loss. Different pulsing treatments significantly influenced the water loss and transpiration loss of individual flowers (Table 2). An increasing trend in water loss was observed up to the 10th day after pulsing, after which it started decreasing in the case of most of the treatments and reached a minimum value at the end of their respective vase lives. Water loss was recorded highest (2.93 g spike-1) on the 10th day when the flowers were pulsed with 8-HQS (200 ppm) + 4% sucrose (T2). A minimum water loss (2.42 g spike-1) was recorded with T10. The total water loss was ranged from 7.22 g spike-1 to 11.24 g spike-1 with different treatments. This may be attributed to the partial closure of the stomata. Pulsing with 8-HQS, nano-silver, and sodium hypochlorite reduced stomatal aperture and inhibited floret transpiration. Sooch et al. (2002) studied the effect of pulsing with chemicals on the vase life of cut gerbera and observed that all the pulsing solutions having silver, sodium hypochlorite, sucrose etc. help in maintaining water relations through their influence on stomata closure and biocidal properties.\r\nThe presence of silver and 8-HQC in the treatments for pulsing enhanced water uptake in the early stages due to the physical and biological alterations of the cut stems. This provides insight on stem cell conductivity reduction and water transportation, which lead to stem occlusions rather than occlusions caused by microbes. It works by lowering the pH of the vase solution and thus deactivates the enzymes responsible for vascular occlusion (Adam and Eldeeb 2021). However, 8-HQS works more effectively when combined with sugar (Asrar, 2012). Liu et al. (2009) also reported that pulsing with nano-siver inhibits bacterial growth in the vase solution and at the cut stem ends of cut gerbera flowers.\r\nWater uptake ratio. Cut flower water uptake ratio is an important parameter for the vase life of cut flowers. The water loss and water uptake ratio were recorded more during the end of the vase life of the respective flower spike. On the 25th day after pulsing, a maximum water loss and water uptake ratio (3.88) was found when pulsing was done with nano silver @ 5 g lt-1 + sodium hypochlorite @7 ml lt-1 + 4% sucrose (T10). Thus, flowers of dendrobium showed variable water loss and water uptake ratios under the influence of various treatments. Pulsing solution having silver played a vital role. Silver ions (Ag+) kill microbes because they loosen the cell well, reduce the cytoplasmic membrane\'s thickness, and condense DNA molecules (Carrillo-opez et al., 2016).\r\nWater balance: The data pertaining to the water balance of dendrobium flowers as influenced by different treatments is presented in Table 4. In the present experiment, treatments with 8-HQS, nano silver, as well as sodium hypochlorite in different combinations along with sucrose decreased water loss and maintained optimal water balance. Water balance followed an increasing trend up to the 5th day and a decreasing trend onwards after pulsing for most of the treatments. The maximum water balance (4.63 g spike1) was recorded when the spikes were treated with 8-HQS (200ppm) + Nano silver @ 5 g lt-1 + 4% sucrose (T7), followed by the treatment combination of nano silver @ 5 g lt-1 + Sodium hypochlorite @7 ml lt-1 + 4% sucrose (T10) as 4.37 g spike1. Most of the variations among the treatments were significant.\r\nIn this experiment, sucrose was a common factor in all the cases. The moment the flower stem is submerged in a sugar solution, bacteria begin to grow at the cut end, preventing the stem from absorbing water from the solution (Muriithi and Ouma 2011). Cut stems were therefore soaked in a preservation solution combining sugar and biocide, which inhibits microbial development and improves water absorption to retain floral turgidity in order to prolong the vase life. Chemical preservatives employed in the present study also had a significant impact on water balance. Sooch et al. (2002) studied the effect of pulsing on the vase life of cut gerbera and observed that the pulsing solutions having silver, sodium hypochlorite, sucrose etc. help in maintaining water relations through their influence on stomata closure and biocidal properties.\r\nFresh weight and fresh weight changes. The data on fresh weight showed significant variations among different pulsing treatments (Tables 5). An increase in fresh weight up to the 10th day after pulsing was found and a decreasing trend was recorded onwards for most of the treatments except T1 and T8. Maximum fresh weight ( 28.38 g spike-1 ) was recorded on the 10th day after pulsing with 8-HQS(200ppm) + nano silver @ 5 g lt-1 + 4% sucrose (T7). An increase in fresh weight and water uptake ultimately increased the vase life of the spike after pulsing. This might be due to a reduced rate of senescence, which improved vase life by maintaining \r\nrespiration rate and cell membrane integrity. Jomy (1998) reported that the use of a combination of 4% sucrose and 400 ppm 8-HQS enhanced the fresh weight and vase life of dendrobium flowers. Similar findings were also reported by Yoo and Kim (2003).\r\nAs evident from the data (Table 5), it was observed that maximum fresh weight changes (34.34%) was recorded on the 10th day after pulsing with nano silver @ 5 g lt-1 in combination with sodium hypochlorite @7 ml lt-1 and 4% sucrose (T10). A similar observation was also reported by Mirjalili (2015) that silver used as a post-harvest chemical showed anti-microbial and ethylene binding inhibitor properties. Silver used in combination with sucrose 5%, improves the fresh weight, flower opening percentage and enhances vase life up to 18 days of tuberose spikes (Selvaraj et al., 2014).\r\nDays to initiation of floret senescence. Data in Table 7 revealed that flower spikes pulsed with nano silver @ 5 g lt-1 in combination with sodium hypochlorite @7 ml lt-1 and 4% sucrose (T10) remained fresh for the longest time. Floret senescence was started at 17.02 days after harvesting. The earliest floret senescence was found with control (T1). This may be because of that nano silver releases Ag+, which has been reported to interact with cytoplasmic components and nucleic acids, to inhibit respiratory chain enzymes and to interfere with membrane permeability (Park et al., 2005). Nanometer sized silver (Ag+) particles are recognized as having a stronger effect of inhibiting many bacterial strains and other micro-organisms than silver in various oxidation states. Due to high surface area to volume ratio of silver nano-particles and strong antibacterial activity, it could suppress the growth of bacterial population in vase solution and in the xylem vessels as well (Basiri et al., 2011).\r\nUn-opened, abscised buds and bud opening. As evident from recorded data on Table 7, different pulsing treatments significantly influenced the un-opened and abscised buds per spike. Minimum un-opened and abscised buds per spike (8.12%) were found with 8-HQS (200ppm) + Nano silver @ 5 g lt-1 + 4% sucrose (T7). Control had the most un-opened and abscised buds (19.43%). Highest bud opening (89.94%) was reported when the flower spikes were pulsed with nano silver @ 5 g lt-1 + sodium hypochlorite @7 ml lt-1 + 4% sucrose (T10). Relevant results were also reported by different researchers. Ketsa et al. (2001) reported that a preservative solution containing 225 ppm HQS, 30 ppm AgNO3, and 4% glucose increased bud opening and the time to wilting of the open florets of dendrobium cv. ‘Ceasar’. The combined effect of 8-HQS as a biocide and Ca (calcium) as a flow resistance reducer maintains turgidity in rose petals and leaves. Also, reduce losses in fresh weight with an increased percentage of opened flowers (Cortes et al., 2011). Silver nitrate increases flower opening percentage, and enhances vase life up to 18 days when used in combination with 5% sucrose solution (Selvaraj et al., 2014). This combination improves water uptake rate and delays the wilting flower rate in dendrobium (Ajith Kumar et al., 2013).\r\nTotal vase life. The vase life of dendrobium cut flowers was significantly extended after using different post-harvest chemicals as pulsing as compared to the control (Table 7). Among the different pulsing treatments of the flower spike, maximum vase life of 23.53 days was recorded with 8-HQS(200ppm) + nano silver @ 5 g lt-1 + 4% sucrose (T7) followed by nano silver @ 5 g lt-1 + Sodium hypochlorite @7 ml lt-1 + 4% sucrose (T10). The presence of HQS in the treatments increased water uptake, which might be due to the physical and biological changes of the stem (Marousky, 1972).\r\nThese results may be due to the role of biocides as anti-microbial agents, and hence, they might reduce stem plugging. Sugars alone, however, tend to promote microbial growth. However, the combination of sugars and biocides might have extended the vase life of cut flowers (Halevy and Mayak 1981). The pulsing treatment of cut flowers with nano silver, 8-HQS, sodium hypochlorite, and sucrose at different combinations might have increased mineral salt uptake, reduced rate of transpiration through its influence on stomatal closure, and optimum supply of carbohydrates and ultimately resulted in enhanced vase life. Sucrose is known to decrease the water potential of the petals and enhance their ability to absorb water. By pulsing with sucrose and mineral salts, cut dendrobium may have a prolonged vase life due to decreased enzymatic activity. Utilizing chemical preservatives helps cut flowers retain their freshness longer by promoting water absorption, increasing fresh weight, reducing solute exosmosis, and preserving water balance. Chen et al. (2004); Banaee et al. (2013) reported that pulsing with sucrose and chemical preservatives at an optimum level for a specific period helps in maintaining water relations and enhances the vase life of cut gerbera. Liu et al. (2009) conformed that pulsing of 15 mg lt-1 nano silver along with 2% sucrose improved the vase life of three cut flowers like rose (9.6 ±1.3 days), carnation (19.9 ± 2.6 days) and gerbera (8.9 ± 0.3 days) over control.\r\n','Koushik Nag and Goutam Mandal (2022). Effect of Post-harvest Treatments on Vase Life quality of Dendrobium orchid cv. Sonia-17. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 14(3): 1395-1401.'),(5488,'136','Studies on Enrichment of Hydrogenotrophic Methanogens for Biomethane Production','Divya Thiyagarajan, Karthikeyan Subburamu, Balachandar Dhanjeyan, Sara Parwin Banu Kamaludeen and Mahendiran Ramasamy','238 Studies on Enrichment of Hydrogenotrophic Methanogens for Biomethane Production Divya Thiyagarajan.pdf','',1,'The presence of CO2 in biogas affects its applicability and hence methanation of CO2 in biogas by exogenous addition of H2 is one of the promising technologies for biogas upgradation. Accordingly this study was aimed to convert CO2 directly to methane. Biomethanation of H2 and CO2 was studied in lab-scale reactors using hydrogenotrophic methanogens. They are obligate anaerobes and hence the samples were collected from anoxic environments viz., paddy field, anaerobic digestor, rumen fluid, and rumen digesta of cattle. The isolates were screened for their efficiency to produce methane and developed into a hydrogenotrophic consortium. This consortium was used for biomethanation studies. A lab-scale anaerobe reactor with slaughterhouse wastewater was seeded with the hydrogenotrophic consortium and H2:CO2 (4:1, v/v) was given as substrate. A temporal microbial shift in substrate utilization from dissolved organic nutrients to H2 and CO2 is influenced by the addition of H2 and CO2 which enhances hydrogenotrophic methanogenic activity. This resulted in a 29.8% increase in biomethane production in test reactors compared to control. The developed hydrogenotrophic consortium can be utilized for scrubbing CO2 directly from the atmosphere thereby reducing greenhouse gas emissions. ','Biogas, Biomethane, Biomethanation, Hydrogenotrophic methanogens, and methane upgradation','In the present study, we demonstrated that biogas with a methane content of 82.6% can be produced with aid of a developed hydrogenotrophic consortium with support biomethanation in a simple reactor without continuous stirring or recirculation. The results obtained are promising and this mechanism can be up-scaled to produce biomethane of high purity. Further study should be carried out to optimize the reactor variables while up-scaling. The optimizing process becomes more complex during up-scaling since the addition of H2 increases the partial pressure which affects other microbial processes in methanation viz., fermentation and acetogenesis. As a result, oxidation of volatile fatty acids in the anaerobic digestion ceases which leads to process failure. Hence future studies should be carried out to maintain the H2 partial pressure as low as possible while employing in situ H2 addition for biomethane production.','INTRODUCTION\r\nHumans generate over 105 tonnes of organic wastes globally each year but only 2% of them are properly treated and disposed of. There are copious methods available for treating wastes but anaerobic digestion (AD) proves to be the effective and economic way of converting wastes into valuable byproducts (Primmer, 2021). AD is a series of biological process that is gaining popularity in the era of a growing need for sustainable energy sources and concerns about global warming caused by greenhouse gas emissions. It is estimated that 50 million micro anaerobic digesters are currently in use around the world for the production of biogas, which is then employed for cooking, heating, and lighting (Jain, 2019). AD breaks down organic substances into renewable products like biogas and biofuels which can be utilized as a substitute for non-renewable energy sources (Li et al., 2015; Patel et al., 2017). It is an intricate process that relies on the synergistic effort of various bacterial communities performing distinct metabolic reactions. The vital steps in anaerobic digestion include (i) hydrolysis of complex organic biopolymers to simple monomers (ii) acidogenesis - fermentation of products of hydrolysis to short chain fatty acids, ammonia, organic acids, and alcohols by a fermentative group of bacteria (iii) acetogenesis - anaerobic oxidation of volatile fatty acids and alcohols to acetate, CO2 and hydrogen by acetogens (iv) methanogenesis - methane production by methanogens using methanol, methylamines, dimethyl sulfide, methanethiol, acetate, CO2¬ and hydrogen (Nishio & Nakashimada 2013). Anaerobic digestion is a sensitive process that requires an equal rate of degradation of all intermediates and each microbial community in the digestion is interlinked, and its population dynamics and metabolic activity have a significant impact on the stability and rate of decomposition (Achinas et al., 2020; Gerardi, 2003; Schink, 1997). \r\nThe major product of AD is – biogas primarily composed of methane (CH4) in the range of 55 – 60 % and carbon dioxide (CO2) in the range of 35 – 45 % (Balat & Balat 2009). The presence of CO2 in biogas reduces its calorific value which limits its wide application. Various techniques and technologies have been developed and thoroughly scrutinized for biogas upgradation. The addition of hydrogen to the anaerobic reactor which boosts the hydrogenotrophic methanogenic community to convert CO2 to CH4 is known as chemoautotrophic upgradation (Muñoz et al., 2015). The principle of chemoautotrophic biogas upgradation using hydrogenotrophic methanogens is based on the Sabateir reaction (1) (Leonzio, 2016), \r\n4H_2+CO_2→CH_4+2H_2 O ΔG°= -130.7kJ/mol (1)\r\nOver years several studies have been presented to biologically convert CO2 to CH4. The process of converting biogas to biomethane can be carried out in one of three ways: either directly injecting H2 into the anaerobic fermenter (\"in-situ\"), or via an external bioreactor containing an enhanced culture of hydrogenotrophic methanogens (\"ex-situ\") or hybrid method combining both ex-situ and in-situ methods (Angelidaki et al., 2018; Aryal et al., 2018). In-situ biogas upgrading enables more efficient use of AD while minimizing the need for additional infrastructure for post-treatment. In this method, H2 is directly fed into an anaerobic digester to boost the activity of endogenous hydrogenotrophic methanogens, promoting CO2 reduction to CH4 (Fu et al., 2021). The exogenous addition of H2 was demonstrated by Mulat et al. (2017) using a thermophilic pressurized reactor fed with maize leaf as substrate, which resulted in 89% CH4 content in biogas with a decrease of CO2 content from 60 to 11%. Addition of H2 directly into the reactor showed inhibition of anaerobic digestion process due to consumption of bicarbonate (Luo & Angelidaki 2012) and this can be alleviated by co-digestion with acidic waste (Luo & Angelidaki 2013). Another important parameter to consider during in situ upgradation is the level of H2 in the reactor which critically affects other microflora in the anaerobic digestion. High levels of H2 (> 10 Pa) in the reactor leads to inhibition of anaerobic digestion and accumulation of volatile fatty acids (Liu & Whitman 2008). However long term exposure of H2 increases the population of hydrogenotrophic community which in turn increases the H2 utilization rate and reverts the inhibition (Treu et al., 2018). To date, only minimal studies have been conducted to employ hydrogenotrophic consortium for biogas upgradation and biomethane production. Accordingly, this study aims to develop a consortium of hydrogenotrophic methanogens solely for in situ biomethane production.\r\nMATERIALS AND METHODS\r\nSource of inoculum for isolation of methanogens. For this study, hydrogenotrophic methanogens were isolated from different environmental niches viz., soil samples from Tamil Nadu Agricultural University’s paddy field and Pichavaram mangrove forest, Chidambaram, Tamil Nadu; anaerobic digestor slurry from biogas plant located at Tamil Nadu Agricultural University; rumen fluid and rumen digesta from the rumen of freshly slaughtered cattle from Government Slaughterhouse located at Coimbatore. Before the sample collection, all the sample containers were sterilized and flushed with O2-free N2 gas. The samples were brought to the lab and processed immediately or stored at -20º C. \r\nEnrichment of methanogens. The enrichment of methanogens was performed in Wheat on serum vials containing 50 mL of broth. For this purpose, 2.0 mL aliquots of anaerobic soil and digestor samples were inoculated in serum bottles containing Basal Carbonate Yeast Trypticase (BCYT; pH 7.0) broth (Touzel & Albagnac 1983) and 2.0 mL aliquots of rumen fluid and rumen digesta were inoculated in BY broth (Joblin, 2005) with H2:CO2 (80:20, v/v) as a substrate. The bottles were sealed tightly with butyl rubber stoppers, crimped firmly with aluminum caps, and sealed with parafilm wax. The enrichment was carried out in three sets with two negative controls – one without inoculum with substrate and the other with inoculum without substrate. The enriched bottles were incubated at 37ºC. \r\nTransfer of enrichment and methane analysis. Methane production in the enriched serum vials was periodically assessed during the enrichment phase using gas chromatography. The gas from the headspace was analyzed for methane using a ‘Gas Chromatograph’ (NUCON, 5765) equipped with Flame Ionization Detector (FID) and a glass column packed with 80/100 Poropak Q. The flow rate of carrier gas (N2) was 25 mL min-1; injector temperature was 100ºC; detector temperature was 200ºC and the column temperature was set to 75ºC. A Standard methane canister (99.9% purity from Covai Air Products, Tamil Nadu) was used to standardize methane estimation. \r\nIsolation and purification of methanogens. The enriched serum vials with a methane content of more than 30% were subjected to two-stage successive transfer to fresh BY and BCYT broth to eliminate non-methanogenic bacterial contaminants using (i) serial dilution - a high decimal dilution showing the presence of methanogens was inoculated into the fresh broth and incubated at 37ºC and (ii) treatment with antibiotics. The roll technique proposed by Hungate (1969) was adapted for the purification of methanogens from enriched samples. 1 mL of enriched sample and 10 mL of the medium were added to a pre-sterilized roll tube under anoxic conditions and sealed with butyl rubber cork. The roll tube was rolled immediately on ice cold sponge so that the media forms a uniform layer on the roll tube. The roll tubes were then incubated in an upright position in the anaerobic jar (3.5 L) containing Anaerogas Pack (HiMedia®). After the incubation period, individual colonies of different colony morphology were picked using a sterile lumbar needle and inoculated in sterile anaerobic broth under anoxic conditions. The isolates were again serially diluted and re-cultured in a solid medium in roll tubes to ensure purity. Reculturing was repeated until a single colony type was obtained. The absence of non-methanogens in the culture was confirmed with two separate growth media devoid of methanogenic substrates namely, (i) PYG medium and (ii) glucose-rich nutrient broth (Jain et al., 2021). \r\nScreening and characterization of isolates. The isolates obtained from purification were characterized and screened for methane production. The obtained isolates were characterized based on colony morphology, gram reaction, catalase test, and methane production. Morphological characters of the isolates were studied under a bright field microscope and gram staining was done using modified Hucker or Burke’s method (Smith & Hussey 2005). The methane production was analyzed at three days intervals using GC-FID. Among fifteen isolates, seven isolates showed maximum growth and methane production in H-minimal broth and they were further developed as a consortium for biomethanation studies.\r\nConsortium development for biomethanation. The seven hydrogenotrophic isolates were studied together for their ability to grow as a consortium and for methane production. The consortium was investigated for (i) growth at temperature (20-50ºC), pH (5-10), and requirement of sodium chloride for methanogenesis (0-5M) using H2:CO2 (4:1, v/v) as substrate. The substrate utilization spectrum of the consortium was studied by culturing in a minimal medium containing 20mM of formate, acetate and propanol, and butanol. The utilization of these substrates by the consortium was determined by observing growth and methane levels in comparison with blank control. The utilization of formate and acetate was quantified using ‘High-Pressure Liquid Chromatography (HPLC)’. About 1 mL of sample was taken from representative vials centrifuged, acidified with 5N H2SO4, and filtered through a 0.2 µm syringe filter before being run on Shimadzu High-pressure liquid chromatography fitted with a C18 column. The compounds were eluted with 0.01M NaH2PO4 buffer containing 10% methanol as eluent and detected at 210nm using a UV detector (Bush et al., 1979). \r\nLab scale biomethanation study. Wastewater was collected from slaughterhouse located in Coimbatore, Tamil Nadu, India. Batch tests were conducted using 125 mL Wheaton serum vials as anaerobic reactors with a working volume of 50 mL. The reactors were filled with filtered slaughterhouse wastewater and seeded using 10% of the developed hydrogenotrophic consortium. The gas in the headspace was removed using a vacuum pump and filled with H2:CO2 (4:1, v/v). The gas was bubbled through the samples using a PVDF membrane filter to remove the contaminants if any and sealed tightly with butyl rubber stoppers, crimped firmly with aluminum caps, and sealed with parafilm wax. A serum bottle with distilled water H2:CO2 in head space was used as blank and a serum bottle with wastewater and inoculum with N2 in the headspace was used as control. The reactors were incubated at 35ºC in water bath and pH was maintained at 7.2 as per results obtained by above studies. The gas concentration in the headspace was analyzed using GC-FID.\r\nRESULTS AND DISCUSSION\r\nTransfer of enrichment and methane analysis. The selection of enrichment culture and the transfer was carried out based on ‘the theory of selection and elimination. The enrichment cultures showing methane productivity greater than 30% were further enriched and the rest were eliminated. The methane productivity of fifteen enriched cultures in the presence of H2:CO2 (4:1, v/v) were 31, 38, 36, 42, 33, 39, 54, 62, 34, 51, 53, 49, 47, 62, and 39% respectively. These fifteen enrichment cultures were subjected to further enrichment. After five enrichments, the cultures were microscopically observed for the presence of methanogens and non-methanogens. \r\nIsolation and purification. The selected enrichment (6th) was serially diluted (10¬-5) and transferred to BY and BCYT broth which still showed the presence of non-methanogens. Hence the enrichment cultures were grown in respective broths with ampicillin, chloramphenicol cycloheximide, kanamycin, ketoconazole, gentamicin, and streptomycin at the final concentration of 25µL/mL to eliminate non-methanogens (Kumar et al., 2012). Several antibiotics, either in single or in combination has been proven to be effective in eliminating non-methanogens during purification (Whitman et al., 2006). After two successive transfers, the load non-methanogens were significantly reduced which was confirmed using the absence of growth in PYG medium and glucose-rich nutrient broth. This strategy to confirm the absence of non-methanogens was carried out by Jain et al. (2021). \r\n \r\nScreening and characterization of the isolates. The morphological characters of the isolates are presented in the table. Screening of efficient hydrogenotrophic methanogens for biomethanation study was assessed based on the methane production by the isolates in H-minimal broth with H2:CO2 (4:1, v/v) as substrate. The isolates that were able to grow and generate methane in H-minimal broth confirms its hydrgenotrophic nature (Morii et al., 1983). All the isolates were able to utilize H2:CO2 (4:1, v/v) and generate methane, this confirms that the isolates are hydorgenotrphic in nature and can be employed for biomethanation. The methane produced by individual isolates is presented in the table. The isolate from rumen fluid (RFC 2) showed maximum methane production (65%) followed by an anaerobic digestor isolate ADS 3 (62%). The least methane production was observed by ADS 1 (42%), an anaerobic digestor isolate. \r\nConsortium development for biomethanation. The seven hydrogenotrophic isolates obtained in this study were cultured together as a consortium for biomethanation studies. They were grown in H-minimal broth with H2:CO2 (4:1, v/v) as substrate. The consortium exhibited growth and the maximum methane production (85%) was observed at the end of the 20th day with 98% CO2 conversion (Fig. 1). This proves their ability to utilize H2:CO2 for biomethanation and confirms the hydrogenotrophic nature. In the study conducted by Burkhardt and Busch (2013) using immobilized hydrogenotrophs in a trickle bed reactor investigating the conversion of H2:CO2 at 37ºC and ambient pressure resulted in a hydrogen conversion up to gH2 = 99% and the maximum methane concentration of CCH4 = 97.9 vol% which supports this study. A similar study was carried by Alitalo et al. (2015) to investigate the conversion of H2 and CO2 using a fixed bed reactor.. By recirculation of gas mixtures, maximal methane productivity of 6.35 l/lreactord was obtained, while the hydrogen conversion rate was 100%. \r\nThe optimum conditions for biomethanation were assessed by growing the consortium at different ranges of i) pH (2-9), ii) temperature (20-50ºC), and iii) NaCl (0-3 M). i) pH: The maximum methane production of the consortium was at pH 7.2 and no methane production was observed below pH 6 and above pH 8.5 as shown in Fig. 1. Chen et al. (2021) studied the effects of pH on hydrogenotrophic methanation, which showed that stable and higher methane production was observed at pH 7.0-7.5 and 8.5-9.0 which supports this study. ii) Temperature: The optimal temperature for methane production was observed at 32-35ºC with 35ºC and 28º being the maximum and minimum temperature requirements for biomethanation (Fig. 1). Palù et al. (2022) reported that higher and durable methane production by hydrogenotrophic methanogens in CSTR co-digesting manure and cheese whey under in situ biomethanation was 37ºC. (iii) NaCl: The consortium was able to tolerate 0.1 – 0.8 M NaCl concentrations above which the growth and methane production abruptly stopped as shown in Fig. 1. Zhang et al. (2017) investigated the effects of salinity in the anaerobic digestion of marine macroalgae by acclimating inoculums at varying salinity. Methanogenesis was considerably delayed at salinity over 55 g L-1. \r\nHydrogenotrophic methanogens such as Methanobacterium were able to tolerate salinity up to 85 g L-1, whereas acetoclastic methanogens, Methanosaeta and Methanosarcina were severely inhibited at salinity is greater than 65 g L-1. \r\nThe substrate utilization spectrum of the consortium was studied by culturing them in a minimal medium containing 20 mM of formate, acetate, propanol, and butanol. The consortium was able to utilize all four substrates but the growth and methane production was slower compared to the medium containing H2:CO2 as substrate (Fig. 2). The primary electron source for hydrogenotrophic methanogens to carry out methanogenesis is H2, but they can also utilize formate, ethanol, carbon monoxide, or some secondary alcohols as electron donors for methane production (Kurth et al., 2020). For the conversion of for mate, many hydrogenotrophic methanogens utilize the enzyme formate dehydrogenase, which catalyzes the formation of reduced coenzyme F420 which then supplies electrons for methane production (Jones & Stadtman 1980). Hydrogenotrophic methanogens use acetate as the carbon source for their cell assimilation but do not compete with acetoclastic methanogens in the natural environment (Jetten et al., 1990). Many hydrogenotrophic methanogens contain alcohol dehydrogenases which convert secondary alcohols to their respective ketones and serves as an electron donor for methanation (Kurth et al., 2020). The results obtained from this experiment shows that the hydrogenotrophic consortium has a wide substrate range. \r\nBiomethanation study. The developed hydrogenotrophic consortium was cultured in anaerobic reactors with H2:CO2 (4:1, v/v) as substrate. The addition of H2 and CO2 to the reactor causes a temporal shift in microbial substrate utilization of H2 and CO2 from dissolved organic nutrients (Kougias et al., 2017). This boosts the hydrogenotrophic methanogenic community to utilize H2 and CO2. The volumetric change in CO2 and CH4 in the headspace of the reactors in test and control reactors was compared for H2:CO2 utilization. The methane production was higher in the reactors supplemented with H2:CO2 compared to the control. The final biogas from the test reactor was composed of 82.6% CH4 and 17.4% CO2, while the biogas from the control reactor was composed of 52.8% CH4 and 47.2% CO2 respectively, resulting in a 29.8% biomethane increase. A study conducted by Alitalo et al. (2015); Okoro-Shekwaga et al. (2019) with a similar experimental study utilizing hydrogenotrophs also showed increased methane productivity. This study proves that methane content in biogas can be alleviated using hydrogenotrophic methanogenic community. \r\n','Divya Thiyagarajan, Karthikeyan Subburamu, Balachandar Dhanjeyan, Sara Parwin Banu Kamaludeen and Mahendiran Ramasamy (2022). Studies on Enrichment of Hydrogenotrophic Methanogens for Biomethane Production. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 14(3): 1402-1408.'),(5489,'136','Rootstock-Scion Physiological and Molecular Aspects in Plants: A Review of Interactions between Biotic and Abiotic Stress in Horticultural Crops','Shikha Jain, Subhashree Subhasmita, Shikha Saini, Poonam Maurya, Anju Jayachandran, Pradeepkumara N. and Bhargav Kiran','239 Rootstock-Scion Physiological and Molecular Aspects in Plants A Review of Interactions Shikha Jain.pdf','',1,'Grafting is frequently employed in fruit, vegetable, and flower propagation to increase quality, yield, and resilience to biotic and abiotic stress. The processes governing the rootstock-scion relationship can have an impact on a plant\'s physiology and biochemistry, growth and development, and environmental adaption. Model plants like Arabidopsis thaliana have mostly been used to research long-distance signal transfer between rootstock and scion, as well as the systemic changes caused by grafting. The study of model plants only serves as a theoretical foundation and point of reference for the associated research on grafted vegetables because these features of grafting alter when other plant materials are grafted. This review includes the use of transgenic rootstocks, the causes of poor grafting success or graft incompatibility, the effects of rootstocks on scion development, including both abiotic and biotic stress tolerance/resistance, as well as potential molecular mechanisms involved. Grafting has the potential to make a significant contribution in this climate change situation, provided that it would allow for the growth of advantageous crops in increasingly marginal conditions. The lack of information regarding the long-distance movement of signalling molecules in grafted fruits and vegetables contrasts with the rapid growth of their large-scale production, emphasizing the requirement for further research into the processes controlling rootstock-scion interaction. Researchers will be able to understand the physiological and molecular mechanisms involved in the rootstock-scion interaction in horticultural crops thanks to the quick development of molecular biotechnology and \"omics\" methods.','Grafting, physiological, omics, rootstock, scion','Grafting is now successfully used in many nations throughout the world and is directly related to the success of numerous crops. Since the nineteenth century, this method\'s largely empirical progress has made it possible for entire woody crops, such citrus groves or vineyards, to survive. Grafting has developed in herbaceous cultivation systems since the turn of the 20th century in tandem with scientific curiosity about the underlying physiological and molecular mechanisms, helping to meet the rising need for securing a sustainable food supply. Practically speaking, this accomplishment was partly due to the significant advantages of grafting (such as resistance to infections and pests, improved yields, and regulation of the production phases), which outweighed the disadvantages associated with higher prices (e.g., related to seeds, skilled labor, facilities and equipment to rise grafted plants). Due to the increased sensitivity of ecosystems and the depletion of natural resources, climate change effects forced agriculture to design environmentally sound methods that can produce more nutrient-dense crops. Grafting has the potential to make a significant contribution in this situation, provided that it would allow for the growth of advantageous crops in increasingly marginal conditions. The most recent developments in physiological, biochemical, molecular, and -omic studies, according to this theory, are anticipated to make a substantial contribution to understanding and regulating the complex nature of plant scion-rootstock interactions. This is a difficult but compelling task, and the solution will have an impact on how much more sustainable agriculture is able to develop the genetic and agronomic potential of many important crops for human nourishment.','INTRODUCTION\r\nGlobal population growth, climate change, and resource depletion are all major threats to future generations\' access to food, both in terms of quantity and quality (Fanzo et al., 2018). As a result, we are driven to develop novel cropping systems in order to meet expanding worldwide demand for plant foods and essential nutrients while also improving sustainability and resistance to environmental shocks (Rivero et al., 2021).\r\nGrafting is one of the most popular methods for horticulture crops including fruits, vegetables, and flowers to reproduce asexually. It\'s widely used to help crops recover from biotic and abiotic stress, such as that produced by insect pests, pathogens and other climatic factors. Grafting can also influence fruit characteristics such size, rind thickness (Fredes et al., 2017), and flesh firmness (Bertucci et al., 2018). The processes that control the rootstock–scion relationship can have an impact on plant growth and development, as well as physiological and biochemical features. Grafting, for example, can enhance vegetable quality by enhancing endogenous hormone synthesis as well as the acquisition and distribution of mineral elements.\r\nAbout 200 species of plants in nature have spontaneous root grafts reported, but countless more likely do as well. By the end of the 20th century, grafting had become commonplace in many horticultural systems across the globe, including herbaceous crops (solanaceous and cucurbits) grown under a variety of conditions, both in the field and greenhouse (Fullana-Pericas et al., 2020). For a range of horticultural crops today, graft-induced alterations in scion phenotypic are extensively documented and include important attributes including yield potential, fruit maturation period, canopy traits, tolerance to suboptimal temperature regimes, mineral toxicity, soil nutrient deficit, or salinity.\r\nThis review includes the use of transgenic rootstocks, the causes of poor grafting success or graft incompatibility, the effects of rootstocks on scion development, including both abiotic and biotic stress tolerance/resistance, as well as potential molecular mechanisms involved. \r\nGraft union formation and success of grafting. Graft union success is based on the formation of new vascular cambium, also known as de novo meristems. Rapidly dividing callus cells form the connection between the scion and rootstock. Later, the cells divide to produce the vascular cambium (lateral meristem) and the vascular system. During the process of compatible graft union, three primary events occur. These include rootstock and scion adhesion, callus cell production at the graft interface, and vascular cell differentiation. The following procedure describes the formation of graft union in details.\r\nWound periderm Formation: A necrotic layer is created from the cell walls of the cut scion and rootstock cells when an incision is made during grafting. Callus tissue is formed by actively dividing paranchyma cells near and internal to necrotic cells.\r\nParenchyma cell interlocking: The cambial areas of rootstock and scion must be close enough to connect the parenchyma cells produced by both rootstock and scion. When rootstock and scion are of uneven thickness, at least one side of rootstock and scion must always be matched to ensure appropriate vascular cambium connectivity in a mismatched graft component.\r\nCallus bridge formation: within seven days, new parenchymatous callus proliferates from both the rootstock and the scion. The outer layers of intact parenchyma cells in the rootstock and scion continue to divide, resulting in callus formation. The necrotic layer produces new parenchyma cells that are contiguous and internal. They intertwine and fill in the gaps between the scion and rootstock.\r\nDifferentiation of vascular cambium: Before the bridges of vascular cambium of both rootstock and scion, the early xylem and phloem are distinct. To bridge the graft union, wound-repair xylem is generated first, followed by wound-repair phloem. The vascular cambium unites, and wound-bridging xylem and phloem remain connected. As a result, secondary vascular growth ensues, resulting in effective graft union.\r\nSecondary xylem and phloem production: Cambial activity commences in the freshly produced cambial layer. As a result, secondary xylem develops on the interior of the wood, while phloem forms on the outside. The vascular link between the rootstock and the scion is made up of xylem and phloem. This stage must be accomplished before the appearance of many leaves on the scion for successful graft union. The loss of water through transpiration is not compensated otherwise, and the scion shoots perish.\r\nGrafting success and graft compatibility are required for commercial use of rootstocks. As a result, it\'s critical to anticipate potential incompatibility issues early in the growing process in order to assure the long-term viability of scion/rootstock pairs. Transport of proteins, hormones, mRNA, and short RNA across the graft junction is now being recognized as a significant mechanism mediating rootstock-scion communication, as well as a key component in comprehending the physiology of grafting.\r\nLoupit and Cookson (2020) examined current knowledge of changes in metabolism and transcript abundance during graft union formation and in cases of graft incompatibility in order to find molecular markers.\r\nIncompatibility appears to be linked to secondary metabolism and growth-regulating hormone metabolism, with results that are very species-specific. Prunacin was the first marker of graft compatibility discovered in pear/quince grafts, but later studies have found other markers in Prunus include the activity of UDP-glucose pyrophosphorylase (UGPase). Among the potential indicators of graft incompatibility in other species, such as grapevine, are stilbenes and certain flavanols.\r\n“Omics” Analyses of Macromolecule Signal Exchanges Induced by Grafting: Genome-wide study has made it possible to learn about probable roles of the encoded transporters by analyzing the expression patterns of IAA-related transporter genes like ClLAX, ClPIN, and ClABCB in grafted watermelon in response to abiotic stimuli (such as salt, drought, and cold). Using watermelon scions grafted to squash rootstocks, transcriptome profiling has been extensively used to examine the functions of DEGs/DEMs in graft compatibility and abiotic stress resistance (Xu et al., 2016). Proteomics can be used to examine the key protein categories in treatment options to investigate the mechanisms of graft-enhanced stress tolerance in scions. Comparative proteome analysis, for instance, was used to show how cucumber scions grafted to Momordica rootstocks could respond to heat stress by accumulating proteins involved in photosynthesis in different ways (Xu et al., 2018).\r\nAs a result, \"omics\" analyses are crucial tools that can be utilized to understand how macromolecular signals are transported and accumulated differently in grafted plants. The selection of appropriate rootstock resources would be made possible by unravelling the mechanisms that control vascularly supplied signalling molecules in grafted vegetables. It would also help to explain how grafting enhances vegetable quality. The modifications and transport of phytohormones, minerals, mRNAs, ncRNAs, and proteins brought on by grafting has been the subject of several investigations. Certain proteins, mRNAs, ncRNAs, and phytohormones that can travel through the circulatory system have been shown to have specific uses. Directionality, minerals, and water that the rootstock has acquired can be transferred to the scion through the xylem, and in grafted vegetables, the phloem rootstock-scion communication channel can transfer plant hormones, certain microRNAs, and proteins. A few binding proteins can also transport RNAs. Rootstocks of grafted vegetables will selectively absorb or reject mineral elements in the rhizosphere in order to establish tolerance of grafted plants to high/low mineral element levels.\r\nIt is necessary to combine additional biological investigations, such as fluorescence quantitative analysis of gene expression pattern, in order to confirm the findings using \"omics\" datasets. However, \"omics\" analyses are direct and quick ways to find mobile and differentially expressed materials in grafted vegetables, such as DEGs (Xu et al., 2016), DEMs (Ren et al., 2018); DAPs (Xu et al., 2018).\r\nModulation of crops response to biotic stress. Flores-Leon et al. (2021) examined the performance of grafted snake melons in organic farming under extreme biotic and salinity stress conditions. More than 50% of the output was lost due to soil-borne illnesses, viruses (WMV, ZYMV, and ToLCNDV), and Podosphaera xanthii assaults. Although it worked synergistically with the biotic stress, salt stress had a little effect. Grafting consistently decreased plant mortality under biotic stress, but had a detrimental impact on consumer acceptance. This negative effect was reduced by the Cucumis F1P at 81 rootstock. Thus, the use of Cucumis rootstocks seems to be a strategy to enable resilient organic farming production of snake melon targeted to high-quality markets in organic farming.\r\nIn grape, citrus and different temperate fruits, considerable variability exist among their rootstocks for their response to diseases, pests and nematodes. Rough lemon rootstock, which is tolerant to Tristeza, and xyloporosis, is also tolerant to gummosis but susceptible to Exocortis viral disease. Similarly, guava varieties grafted on Chinese guava, can tolerate wilt disease and nematodes\r\nIn many genotypes of Physalis spp., Chaves-Gomez et al. (2020) employed various physiological variables to test possible rootstocks for resistance to vascular wilt induced by Fusarium oxysporum f. sp. physali (FOph). While P. peruviana \"Colombia\" and \"Sudafrica\" plants showed higher susceptibility to the vascular wilt, with net photosynthesis rate, stomatal conductance, leaf water potential, and Fv/Fm being lower than in the non-inoculated plants, P. floridana and P. ixocarpa plants inoculated with FOph showed similar behaviour to non-inoculated plants. The former genotypes can be used as rootstocks to plant cape gooseberry in soils with FOph infestations or in breeding operations.\r\nWhen compared to ungrafted plants, tomato and melon grafted onto the resistant rootstocks \"Aligator\" and Cucumis metuliferus (acc. BGV11135), respectively, did not always offer higher tolerance levels to Meloidogyne incognita, but the relative crop yields observed both in spring and summer were improved (Exposito et al., 2020). In particular, the only significant difference between the grafted and ungrafted summer-grown melons was the presence of nematode tolerance (but not in spring). Regarding this latter harvest, crop season affects fruit quality.\r\nModulation of crops’ response to biotic and abiotic stressors. Various rootstocks can increase resistance to subpar growth conditions, according to other sources. The tomato cultivar BHN-589 was subjected to both optimal soil temperature (24°C) and inadequate soil temperature (SST, 13.5°C) (Bristow et al., 2021). Under SST, stomatal conductance (gs), plant biomass, and root hydraulic conductivity and conductance all reduced, but only two rootstocks retained increased stomatal conductance. Higher (20%) root-to-shoot ratios were observed in all phenotypes due to greater reductions in shoot biomass than in root biomass. Some commercial rootstocks maintained higher levels of shoot N content and stomatal conductance, which helped them function better under SST.\r\nCold-tolerant pumpkin (Cm) rootstock was used in the research work by Fu et al. (2021) to increase the grafted cucumber\'s ability to withstand cold temperatures. The endogenous salicylic acid (SA) level was raised by cooling stress, particularly in cucumber (Cs) scions grafted onto Cm rootstocks. These alterations were connected to the up-regulation of crucial SA biosynthesis genes. Under aerial and root-zone freezing stress, respectively, SA production in leaves and transport from roots both increased, which was primarily responsible for the buildup of SA in the Cs/Cm leaves. Additionally, exogenous SA markedly increased the expression of genes that respond to cold (COR) as well as physiological processes related to cold tolerance.\r\n','Shikha Jain, Subhashree Subhasmita, Shikha Saini, Poonam Maurya, Anju Jayachandran, Pradeepkumara N. and Bhargav Kiran (2022). Rootstock-Scion Physiological and Molecular Aspects in Plants: A Review of Interactions between Biotic and Abiotic Stress in Horticultural Crops. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 14(3): 1409-1413.'),(5490,'136','Cross Infectivity Studies of Turcicum Leaf Blight Pathogen (Exserohilum turcicum) under Green House conditions','Ch. Yamuna*, V. Prasanna Kumari, V. Manoj kumar, K. Jayalalitha and V. Roja','240 Cross Infectivity Studies of Turcicum Leaf Blight Pathogen _Exserohilum turcicum_ Under Green House Conditions Ch. Yamuna.pdf','',1,'An experiment was conducted at Agricultural College, Bapatla during 2021-2022. Twelve maize and 12 sorghum E. turcicum isolates were collected from the Guntur, Prakasam and Bapatla districts. The spore suspension of all the 12 maize E. turcicum isolates were cross inoculated on sorghum plants and similarly, the spore suspension of all the 12 sorghum E. turcicum isolates was cross inoculated on maize plants. When the results were observed all the maize isolates infected the sorghum plants and all the sorghum E. turcicum isolates infected the maize plants. There was a significant difference among the treatments in terms of incubation period, lesion length and per cent disease index. Among the maize isolates the Bapatla isolate BPT-1 showed the minimum incubation period (24 h), maximum lesion length (11.13 cm) and the highest PDI (22.5%) when cross inoculated on sorghum plants. When the response was observed among the sorghum isolates on maize plants, the Guntur isolate RDG showed the minimum incubation period (24 h), maximum lesion length (11.20 cm) and the highest PDI (25.30%).','Cross infectivity, Exserohilum turcicum, Maize, Sorghum, Turcicum leaf blight','Turcicum leaf blight pathogen, E. turcicum showed to infect both maize and sorghum. Maximum PDI and lesion length was observed in maize plants when compared to the sorghum plants when cross inoculated. When E. turcicum isolates were inoculated on both primary host and collateral host, the lesion length and PDI were high on primary host when compared to the collateral host. With changing climatic conditions, there is certainity of pathogen of a single crop devastating multiple crops resulting in pandamics.','INTRODUCTION\r\nMaize (Zea mays L.), a C4 grass belonging to the family Poaceae, popularly known as “corn” is one of the most versatile emerging cash crops having wider adaptability under varied climatic conditions. Due to its highest genetic yield potential, globally maize is called the “Queen of cereals”. It was reported that the present cultivable form of maize is the derivation from the mutation of wild form of pod maize, indigenous to the eastern slopes of Andus in South America which is thought to the place of its origin (Mangelsdorf, 1947). \r\nTurcicum leaf blight of maize (Zea mays), also known as northern corn leaf blight causedby Exserohilum turcicum, is a widespread disease of maize, which can cause yield losses up to 70% (Yeshitila, 2003). Apart from yield loss, the disease causes qualitative changes in the seed resulting in decreased sugar content, germination capacity and severely infected plants are predisposed to stalk rot (Cardwell et al., 1997). \r\nThe pathogen was reported to have wide host range infecting crop species (Sarithunya et al., 2006), like sorghum, barley, oat, rice, millets, Sudan grass, Johnson grass, tobacco and sugarcane (Frederiksen and Franklin 1980; Shurleff, 2012). The pathogen was reported to perpetuate in these hosts in absence of maize (Acharya and Sengupta 2008). The maize pathogen has the ability to infect sorghum plants and the sorghum pathogen has the ability to infect maize crop (Rasmussen et al., 2003). The present investigation was carried out for the study of cross infectivity of E. turcicum infecting maize and sorghum.\r\nMATERIALS AND METHODS\r\nExperimental design. Cross infectivity studies among 12 maize isolates and 12 sorghum isolates were tested by challenge inoculating maize E. turcicum isolates on sorghum plants and the sorghum E. turcicum isolates on the maize plants under greenhouse conditions. The seeds (maize-Pioneer-3396, sorghum-NTJ-5) were sown in black poly bags of 12” × 12”. The bags were watered regularly. Two plants per bag were raised and three such bags for each isolate were considered as three replicates. \r\nInoculum preparation. Pure cultures of respective isolates were grown over PDA. Conidia from 12 days old culture was dislodged by flooding the plate with distilled water followed by gentle scraping. Slow growing isolates were mass multiplied on sorghum grains (inoculated with spore suspension) followed by stirring in sterile distilled water. The spore suspension was harvested in to a beaker and strained through muslin cloth. Tween-20 @ 0.1% was added to spore suspension before inoculation to ensure uniform spread of inoculum over leaves. The spore suspension adjusted to 105 spores per ml using haemocytometer was inoculated using hand sprayer @15ml/ plant during evening hours. Sorghum E. turcicum spore suspension was sprayed on maize plants and maize E. turcicum spore suspension was sprayed on sorghum plants. The plants sprayed with sterile distilled water + Tween-20 (0.1%) served as control.\r\nObservations and data analysis. Immediately after spraying, the plants were covered with poly propylene covers for 24 h to prevent cross contamination and to ensure humidity for pathogen establishment. Incubation period (time required for first appearance of chlorotic or necrotic symptoms) for isolate was assessed by examining inoculated plants every day for appearance of lesion. Observations for disease severity were recorded 20 days after inoculation following standard scale. For sorghum standard 1-9 scale (Thakur et al., 2007) and for maize standard 0-5 scale (CIMMYT, 2004). Based on disease severity PDI was calculated.\r\nRESULTS AND DISCUSSION\r\nResponse of Maize E. turcicum isolates on Sorghum Plants when cross inoculated. The spore suspension of all the 12 maize E. turcicum isolates were cross inoculated on sorghum plants and similarly, the spore suspension of all the 12 sorghum E. turcicum isolates was cross inoculated on maize plants. When the results were observed in terms of incubation period, lesion length and per cent disease index there was a significant difference among the treatments. The results were depicted in the Tables 1 and 2.\r\nWhen the response was observed on sorghum plants when cross inoculated with the maize E. turcicum isolates on 20 DAI, all the isolates differ significantly. The data was taken on the incubation period, lesion length and PDI.\r\nIncubation period: When incubation period was observed on 20 DAI, the shortest incubation period was observed in BPT 1 (24 h), BPT 2 (24 h) which was statistically on par with other isolates viz., CBL 1 (25.33 h), APK 1 (26.33 h) and CBL 2 (26.67 h). The longest incubation period was observed in LAM 1 isolate (37.67 h) which was on par with LAM 2 (36 h) and TNL 1 (36 h) (Table 1). \r\nLesion length: There is a significant variation in lesion formation on the leaves of sorghum (NTJ-5 variety) plants when cross inoculated with maize E. turcicum isolates. The maximum lesion length was observed in BPT 1 isolate (11.13 cm) which had lowest incubation period and highest PDI. The isolates with lesion length of BPT 2 (10.83 cm), APK 2 (8.67 cm) and APK 1 (8.28 cm) were statistically not significant with each other whereas, the lowest lesion length was observed in LAM 1 (1.46 cm) which also had longest incubation period and lowest PDI (Plate 1).\r\nPer cent Disease Index (PDI): The PDI varied from 2.75% (LAM 1) to 22.5% (BPT 1). The isolate BPT 1 caused the highest PDI (22.5%) on the sorghum plants which was on par with another Bapatla isolate BPT 2 (21.64%). While the lowest PDI was observed in LAM 1 isolate (2.75%) which had longest incubation period. It was on par with three isolates viz., LAM 2 (2.91%), TNL 2 (3.17%) and TNL 1 (3.25%). The isolates which showed the highest PDI have shortest incubation period and highest lesion lengths (Plate 1).\r\nAll the tested maize E. turcicum isolates were capable of causing the disease on the sorghum plants but the incubation period, lesion length and PDI varied significantly among the isolates.\r\nResponse of Sorghum Isolates on Maize Plants When Cross Inoculated. All the sorghum E. turcicum isolates were tested on the maize (Pioneer 3396 hybrid) plants. When the results were noted, there is a significant variation in terms of incubation period, lesion length and PDI among the isolates.\r\nIncubation period: When all the sorghum isolates were tested, the shortest incubation period was observed in the Guntur isolate RDG (24 h) which varied significantly among all the isolates, followed by Bapatla isolate BPT (26 h) and Prakasam district isolate KTP (26 h). The longest incubation period was observed in KMR isolate (37 h). All the isolates varied significantly when tested on maize plants (Table 2). \r\nLesion length: The lesions formed on the leaves of maize plants significantly differed among the isolates. Highest lesion length was observed in RDG isolate (11.20 cm) which was statistically on par with Prakasam isolate SMG (10.4 cm). The lowest lesion length was observed in KMR isolate (1.68 cm) which had longest incubation period and lowest PDI and was on par with another isolate ELC (1.78 cm) (Plate 2). \r\nPer cent Disease Index (PDI): When the PDI was observed, the highest PDI was observed in RDG (25.3%) which was on par with KTP (24.6%), EDM (24%) and BPT (24%). The lowest PDI was observed in KMR (4.16%) which has lowest lesion length and longest incubation period and was on par with ELC (4.25%) (Plate 2).\r\nAll the tested sorghum E. turcicum isolates were also capable of causing the disease on the maize plants but the incubation period, lesion length and PDI varied significantly among the isolates. The PDI was comparatively high in maize plants when inoculated with sorghum E. turcicum isolates than the PDI on sorghum plants when inoculated with the maize E. turcicum isolates. \r\nThe results were in accordance with Masias and Bergquist (1974); Rasmussen et al. (2003) who reported that maize E. turcicum isolates infected sorghum crop and sorghum E. turcicum infected maize crop. Shankerlingam and Balasubramanian (1984) reported successful infection of sorghum isolates on maize. All the maize and sorghum plants tested were susceptible to the E. turcicum pathogen while incubation period, lesion length and PDI varied among the treatments (Serrone and Fornasari 1995). \r\n','Ch. Yamuna, V. Prasanna Kumari, V. Manoj Kumar, K. Jayalalitha and V. Roja (2022). Cross Infectivity Studies of Turcicum Leaf Blight Pathogen (Exserohilum turcicum) under Green House Conditions. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 14(3): 1414-1418.'),(5491,'136','Effect of Storage on quality Parameters of Foxtail Millet Biscuit with different Packaging Materials','Soumya Hiregoudar and Mamatha, H.S.','241 Effect of Storage on quality Parameters of Foxtail Millet Biscuit with Different Packaging Materials Soumya Hiregoudar.pdf','',1,'Millets provide a wide range of health benefits and are good source of energy, protein, fiber, minerals and vitamins. The additional benefits of the millets are gluten-free protein content and low glycaemic index. The present study was designed to develop and standardize the foxtail millet based biscuit and to evaluate the effect of storage on quality parameters of foxtail millet biscuit with different packaging materials.\r\nEstimation of different quality parameters of foxtail millet based biscuit like moisture, free fatty acid, peroxide value, microbial load and organoleptic parameters were analysed by using standard procedure at different storage period from 0th day to 30th days interval in Metallised Polyester Polyethylene (MPP) and Polypropylene (PP) packaging materials. The study resulted in cent percent foxtail millet based biscuit had high free fatty acid and peroxide value compared to control. Moisture content and microbial load were high in control compared to foxtail millet based biscuit. The PP packaged biscuit showed high moisture, free fatty acid, peroxide value, microbial load compared to MPP packaged biscuit. Organoleptic evaluation showed high score in MPP packaged biscuit compared to PP packaged biscuit.\r\nReplacement of refined wheat flour with foxtail millet flour in bakery products become one of the ways to increase nutritional properties in bakery product. The technology of the products developed under present study can be extended for commercialization.\r\n','Foxtail millet, Metallised Polyester Polyethylene (MPP), Polypropylene (PP), Storage study, organoleptic evaluation','Foxtail millet is good source of protein, fiber, vitamins, minerals and benefits of the millets like gluten-free proteins, high fibre content, low glycaemic index and richness in bioactive compounds made them a suitable health food. Replacement of refined wheat flour with foxtail millet flour in bakery products become one of the way to increase nutritional properties in bakery product. From the data on the moisture sorption characteristics, free fatty acid, peroxide value and microbial load metallised polyester polyethylene laminated pouches were assessed to be most suitable packing for the biscuit and conduct the storage studies.','INTRODUCTION\r\nFoxtail millet is one of the oldest cultivated crops, identifies as major millet in terms of word wide production, belong to the Serataria genus of poaceae family. It contains protein, fibre, minerals, phytochemicals, tannins and also hypolipidemic, low glycaemic index and antioxidant characters (Sharma and Niranjan 2018). Processing techniques include drying, roasting, germination and fermentation can produce products that can be nutritionally preferable, various products like biscuit, cookies, breads and porridge can be prepared. Biscuit industry is India’s largest industry amongst processed food industries, with an estimated production of 70,000 tones and cost of three thousand billions US Dollar. Biscuit along with bread forms major baked food accounting to over 30 and 50 per cent respectively of total bakery products produced in the country. Biscuit are available in wide variety and in many combinations (salt, high/low fat biscuit etc.). The nutritional value of biscuit can be enhanced by fortification and supplementation with protein, fiber rich cereals, pulses and millets (Ahmad and Ahmed 2014).\r\nNowadays, bakery units made many advances in this sector by using additives and packaging materials to increase shelf life of products. The acceptability of a biscuit or any snack items are based on the deterioration level and rancidity is the main cause for deterioration. This in turn causes foul smell, loss of nutritional quality, undesirable texture, colour and also threat to food safety. Another important factor is packaging. It forms an integral part of manufacturing process for filling the gap between producer and consumer. Apart from this, it also facilitates for storing of food items. Thus, it is not only important to understand the effect of supplementation of foxtail millet flour on the physico-chemical and sensory properties; but it is also important to understand its behaviour during storage and the resultant effect on the quality of the food product. Hence, the present investigation was aimed to study and compare the effect of different packaging materials on sensory attributes, microbial load and chemical properties of foxtail millet based biscuit during storage period of 30 days.\r\n\r\n\r\nMATERIALS AND METHODS\r\nProcurement and processing of raw materials. Refined wheat flour, foxtail millet, sugar, hydrogenated fat, sodium bicarbonate, ammonium bicarbonate, skim milk powder, vanilla essence and packaging materials such as Metalized Polyester Polyethylene (MPP) and Poly Propylene (PP) were procured from the local market, Bangalore. \r\nDevelopment and standardization of millet based biscuit. The formulation for the control biscuit was based on the recipe of Sudha et al. (2007) by creaming method.\r\nStandardization of foxtail millet based biscuit. After the successful preparation of the control biscuit, the experimental biscuit were prepared by replacing refined wheat flour with foxtail millet flour at different levels viz., 50, 60, 70, 80, 90 and 100 per cent. Amount of fat, sugar, milk powder, ammonium bicarbonate, sodium bicarbonate, salt, vanilla essence were kept constant to 20 g, 30 g, 02 g, 01g, 0.5g, 01g, 01ml respectively on 100 g flour weight basis for all variations, differing in the amount of water added. The composition of millet based biscuit is presented in Table 1. The method of preparation remains the same as that of the control biscuit.\r\nShelf life study of best accepted millet based biscuit. The products were stored up to 30 days at room temperature. Two types of packaging materials were used. Each product was stored in Polypropylene (PP) and Metalized Polyester Polyethylene (MPP) was kept in ambient condition. The products were evaluated for their organoleptic acceptability, quality parameters (moisture, free fatty acid and peroxide value) and total microbial load at 7 days interval of one month duration.\r\nPeroxide value \r\nIn the oxidative rancidity, oxidation of fat due to the combination of oxygen with unsaturated fatty acids takes place and results in the formation of compounds with a peroxide structure.\r\n \r\nFree fatty acid. Free fatty acid value of sample was determined according to AOAC method. Percentage of free fatty acids was calculated using oleic acid as a factor and expressed as per cent of oleic acid/100g of sample.\r\n Microbial analysis of best accepted foxtail millet based biscuit. All products were stored for a period of one month in polypropylene and metalized polyester polyethylene pouches under room condition. Initial plating was done at 0th day and after 7 days of interval for up to 1 month. Products were tested for total bacterial, fungal and E. coli counts. The media used was nutrient agar (NA), Martin rose Bengal agar (MRBA) and Eosine methylene blue agar (EMB) respectively. It was carried out by serial dilution and pour plate method.\r\nStatistical analysis. In the present study one-way ANOVA was applied. The data was tabulated and analysed by keeping in view of the objectives and parameters of the study. All the analyses were performed in triplicate and the data was analysed using EXCEL and three-way ANOVA was applied for storage study interactions.\r\nRESULTS AND DISCUSSION\r\nEffect of storage on moisture, peroxide value (PV) and free fatty acid (FFA) of best accepted foxtail millet-based biscuit. Table 2 depicts the effect of storage in different packaging material on moisture, peroxide value (PV) and free fatty acid (FFA) content in ambient condition for foxtail millet-based biscuit.\r\nMoisture is one of the important component of food thus the free water content in foods present has an important relationship in conservation of chemical, physical and rheological attributes during storage. These alterations may affect the organoleptic characteristics of the product. \r\nIn context, moisture content of control, foxtail millet biscuit was 2.87 and 1.42 g respectively in both the packages during initial period of storage. However, moisture content increased to 3.00 and 1.80 g in PP and 2.94 and 1.50 g in MPP package respectively at the end of the storage period (30th day) at ambient condition. In the MPP package the moisture content of all the products remained constant up to 7th day compared to PP package and not much change in moisture content was observed in MPP package during the storage period.\r\nThree-way statistical analysis was done to know the significant difference of the interaction effect of different factors and observed that, there was non-significant difference between treatments (a) and significant difference was observed between irrespective of the interaction effect of all the conditions i.e. the treatments (a), packaging (b) and storage period (c). \r\nKhatoniar (2015) reported that moisture content of salty biscuit gradually increased as days increased, maximum increment of moisture was observed in PP pouches, followed by HDPE pouches then airtight container.\r\nPeroxide value (PV) is an amount of oxygen consumed in the reaction that reduces the unsaturated (C=C) bonds in a given amount of lipid mixture during oxidation. The peroxide value of control and foxtail millet biscuit was 1.86 and 1.89 mEq O2/kg of fat in both packaging on initial day of storage. Compared to control (1.86 mEq O2/kg) the foxtail millet biscuit had high content of PV (1.89 mEq O2/kg). The peroxide value of control and foxtail millet biscuit increased from 1.86 to 2.31 mEq O2/kg and 1.89 to 2.30 mEq O2/kg respectively on storage in PP package. Whereas in MPP package the PV was slightly increased from 15th to 30th day but less increased as value compared to PP biscuit i.e. ranged from 1.86 to 2.00 mEq O2/kg for control and 1.89 to 2.10 mEq O2/kg for foxtail millet biscuit at ambient condition. There was a significant relationship found between the treatments (a), package (b), storage (c) and irrespective between the a×b, a×c, b×a, a×b×c from initial to final storage period of the products. The results indicated that least changes in peroxide value was observed in MPP than PP package.\r\nThe free fatty acid content was more foxtail millet (0.32 %) compared to control (0.29 %). There was an increased in free fatty acid content of control and foxtail millet biscuit from 0.29 to 0.34 per cent and 0.32 to 0.40 per cent in PP and from 0.29 to 0.30 per cent and 0.31 to 0.34 per cent in MPP package respectively from initial to final days of storage under ambient condition. In the present study the products packed in PP package found highest level of free fatty acid by the end of 30th day compared to MPP package. Statistically significant interaction observed between all the conditions irrespective of the factors during the storage period. This might be due to the fact that millet based products are more prone for oxidative rancidity than refined wheat flour products. Mridula et al. (2009) reported that free fatty acid content increased mainly from degradation products of hydro peroxide which is directly related with relative humidity and moisture content of the products.\r\nEffect of storage on microbial load of best accepted foxtail millet based biscuit. The data given in Table 3 reflect the mean total bacterial count, fungi count and coli-form count of best accepted foxtail millet biscuit.\r\nGenerally, the total viable count indicated that the microbiological quality of any food product and the presence of high number of total viable counts is an indication for low expected shelf life of the product. Microorganisms play significant role in the determination of shelf life of food products.\r\nThere were no total bacterial and fungi count was observed on initial and 7th day, irrespective of packaging and storage condition. Whereas the bacterial count started to grow in Poly propylene (PP) stored products from 15th day with the load of 1×102 and 0.7×102 cfu/g in control and foxtail millet biscuit respectively and no growth was found in MPP. On 30th day, the similar level of total bacterial load (2.5×102 cfu/g) was observed in both control as well as foxtail millet based biscuit (2.1×102 cfu/g) in PP package. However, in MPP maximum bacterial load observed in control (2×102 cfu/g) followed by foxtail millet biscuit (1.7×102 cfu/g). The present study result indicated that mean bacterial count was less MPP stored biscuit.\r\nThe total fungi count detected from 30th day of storage in both the packaging material i.e. 0.6×102, 0.5×102 cfu/g in PP and 0.2×102, 0.2×102 cfu/g in MPP for control and foxtail millet biscuit respectively but lower count was observed in biscuit stored in MPP.\r\nColi-form count was not detected during the storage period in both the packaging material under ambient condition.\r\nEffect of storage on sensory characteristics of foxtail millet based biscuit. Effect of storage on sensory quality of best accepted foxtail millet based biscuitis presented in Table 4.\r\nThe sensory characteristics of the best accepted foxtail millet based products after baking and storage period (0 to 30 days) at room temperature were assessed by semi trained panelists.\r\nAppearance: The mean sensory scores of control (100 % refined wheat flour) and foxtail millet showed a mean sensory scores range of 9.00 to 8.50 and 8.96 to 8.35 in PP package and 9.00 to 8.70 and 8.96 to 8.84 in MPP package from initial to final day of storage period respectively. The result indicated that, there was less fluctuation in mean scores between the products and storage period and showed non-significant difference. However significant difference was observed between packaging material and other interactions. The mean scores of all the products in PP package decreased than the MPP package during the storage period (Table 3).\r\nTexture. Texture and crispiness are the most important characteristics of biscuit evaluated by consumers. The mean sensory scores of control (refined wheat flour) biscuit stored in PP and MPP package showed 17.58 to 16.50 and 17.5 to 16.9 from initial period to final day of storage period. However, foxtail millet flour biscuit from initial to 30th day of storage in PP and MPP showed 17.6 to 16.5 and 17.6 to 16.9 respectively. statistically significant difference was not found between the best accepted products and packaging material, however significant difference was observed during storage period and other factor interaction.\r\nTaste and aroma. It is evident from the results of sensory scores for taste and aroma that control and foxtail millet biscuit packed in PP and MPP pouch from initial to 30th day of storage showed a mean range of 25.3 to 20.2 and 25.3 to 24.6 and 27.5 to 23.2 and 27.5 to 25.1 respectively at ambient condition. \r\nMouth feel: The mouth feel of a product is a multidimensional oral sensation. The evaluation for property of mouth feel resulted in mean sensory scores of cent percent refined wheat flour as control (8.05 to 7.10 and 8.05 to 7.80) and foxtail millet based biscuit (7.56 to 7.00 and 7.56 to 7.20) stored in PP and MPP package respectively from initial to final day of storage period under ambient temperature.\r\nOverall acceptability. The mean sensory scores with respect to overall acceptability of control and millet based biscuit showed a significant decrease in both PP and MPP pouch during storage period. \r\n','Soumya Hiregoudar and Mamatha, H.S. (2022). Effect of Storage on quality Parameters of Foxtail Millet Biscuit with Different Packaging Materials. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 14(3): 1419-1423.'),(5492,'136','Effect of Organic Manures and Biofertilizer on Growth, Yield and quality of Beetroot (Beta vulgaris L.) cv. Red express','Manjesh Kumar, I.N. Shukla, Braj Kishor, Nirankar, Ravi Pratap and Subham Singh','242 Effect of Organic Manures and Biofertilizer on Growth, Yield and quality of Beetroot _Beta vulgaris L._ cv. Red express Nirankar.pdf','',1,'The current study, \"Effect of organic manures and biofertilizer on growth, yield, and quality of beetroot (Beta vulgaris L.),\" was carried out at the vegetable research farm of the department of vegetable science at Chandra Shekhar Azad University of Agriculture and Technology Kalyanpur, Kanpur, during the Rabi season of 2021–2022. With eight treatment combinations and three replications, the experiment was carried out using a randomised block design. The treatment comprises of PSB (5 kg/ha), FYM (20 t/ha), VC (5 t/ha), PSB (2.5 kg/ha) + FYM (10 t/ha), PSB (2.5 kg/ha) + VC (2.5 t/ha), FYM (10 t/ha) + VC (2.5 t/ha), FYM (10 t/ha) + VC (2.5 t/ha) + PSB (2.5 kg/ha). The result of the present investigation revealed the following traits viz. Early germination 8.0 (DAS), the highest Plant height 34.01 (cm), maximum number of leaves per plant 18.58, maximum leaf area per plant 1266.16 (cm2), maximum root length 11.84 (cm), maximum diameter per root 6.17 (cm), maximum root weight per root 118.33 (g), maximum root yield per plot 5.68 (kg), maximum root yield per hectare 142.0 (quintal), maximum harvest index 0.69, maximum Total Soluble Solids (T.S.S.) 19.36 (Brix°), and benefit cost ratio 2.97. \r\nIn the following experiment the highest yield obtain was in the treatment that was with FYM 10 ton/ha) + VC 2.5 ton/ha) + PSB 2.5 kg/ha). The operations were done as per requirement and time thus produced high yield. All the treatments found superior over control (T1) on the basis of growth, yield, quality, and economics.\r\n','FYM, Vermicompost and PSB','The experiment\'s findings showed that the application of organic manures FYM and Vermicompost in combination with biofertilizers PSB with treatment (T8) FYM (10 t/ha) + VC (2.5 t/ha) + PSB (2.5 kg/ha) produced the highest levels of growth, yield, and quality characteristics, including plant height, number of leaves per plant, leaf area per plant, root length per plant, root diameter per plant, harvest index, root yield kg under the regional climatic conditions of Central Uttar Pradesh, the treatment (T8) FYM (10 t/ha) + VC (2.5 t/ha) + PSB (2.5 kg/ha) was shown to be excellent and superior. ','INTRODUCTION\r\nBeetroot (Beta vulgaris L.), also called as garden beet or table beet, is one of the major root vegetable belongs to the family Chenopodiaceae along with spinach, palak, swiss chard, parsley, celery and it has chromosome number of 2n=18. The beet root was first cultivated for human and animal consumption in Western Europe and North Africa. As a cool season annual, this crop is a biennial. India\'s northern and southern regions both grow it. It is grown, albeit on a modest scale, in practically all of India\'s states. It produces green tips and a swelling root that can be used in salads and as vegetables. It produces a lot and is typically free of pests and illnesses (Ado, 1999). It is an excellent vegetable for people who are concerned about their health because it is a great source of protein, carbohydrates, calcium, phosphorus, and vitamin C (Deuter and Grundy 2004). Because betanine pigment is present, roots are red. It provides a number of therapeutic benefits and lowers the risk of peripheral and cardiovascular disorders. Beet root helps to lower blood pressure, prevent plaque buildup and lower bad cholesterol, manage diabetes, treat anaemia, relieve fatigue, boost sexual health and stamina, and protect against cancer, among other things.\r\nThe amount that sugar beet farmers get paid depends on how much recoverable sucrose is taken out of their crop. Therefore, to maximise sugar beet profitability, a crop with a high sucrose content must be produced in large quantities. The management of nutrients is a crucial element in achieving this objective. Three essential elements—beet yield, sucrose content, and sucrose recovery efficiency—are the foundation of sugar beet earnings. Yield optimization for sugar beets can be difficult. All three aspects can be impacted by nutrients, especially nitrogen (N). In addition to increasing nitrate impurities, which lower sucrose recovery, excess nitrogen can also diminish the sucrose concentration. While maintaining N levels is simple, micronutrients are also essential for getting the best sugar yields. Conversely, N deficiencies can lower the root and sugar output.\r\nBoth Maharashtran farmers and sugar mills have little interest in growing sugar beet. The lack of scientific and technological knowledge about sugar beet agriculture in these areas is mostly to blame for the low productivity and low sugar recovery of the plant. Genetic progress and rigorous cultural traditions can increase production and sugar content.\r\nMATERIAL AND METHODS\r\nAt the Vegetable Research Farm, Department of Vegetable Science, Kalyanpur, Chandra Shekhar Azad University of Agriculture and Technology, Kanpur (208002), a field experiment titled \"Effect of organic manures and bio-fertilizer on growth, yield, and quality of beetroot (Beta vulgaris L.) cv. Red express\" was done during the rabi season of 2021–2022. (U.P.). Eight treatment combinations were used in the trial, which used a Randomised Block Design with three replications. All the different combination of organic manures and biofertilizer treatments viz., T1: Control, T2: PSB (5 kg/ha), T3: FYM (20 t/ha), T4: VC (5 t/ha), T5: PSB (2.5 kg/ha) + FYM (10 t/ha), T6: PSB (2.5 kg/ha) + VC (2.5 t/ha), T7: FYM (10 t/ha) + VC (2.5 t/ha) and T8: FYM (10 t/ha) + VC (2.5 t/ha) + PSB (2.5 kg/ha). The seed of Red express were sown in plot size of 2m × 2m, spaced with 45 × 15 cm. To cultivate a good crop, all other recommended cultural practices were followed. The observation were recorded in randomly taken four plant per plot and tagged plants from each replication on morphological traits viz., number of days taken for germination of seed, plant height (cm), number of leaves per plant, leaf area (cm2), root length (cm), root diameter (cm), harvest index, root yield (kg/plot), root yield (quintal/ha), root weight (g/plant) and total soluble Solids (Brix°). The data based on individual plants selected for observation were statistically analysed as described by Sukhtme (1985).\r\nRESULTS AND DISCUSSION\r\nPlant height. Plant height is one of the important growth contributing characters for sugar beet plant. Plant height of sugar beet was measured at 25, 50 days and harvest after sowing. It was significantly influenced by different organic manure and biofertilizers (Table 1). During the growth period, plant height increased gradually and reached to peak at around 90 days after sowing. Plant height varies from (11.92, 18.99 and 24.17 cm) in T1 (control) to (17.74, 28.10, 34.01 cm) in T8 (FYM (10 t/ha) + VC (2.5 t/ha) + PSB (2.5 kg/ha)) at 25, 50, days and harvest respectively. The combination of organic manures and biofertilizers may have provided plant nutrients for proper growth of plants by improving the physical chemical properties, drainage, porosity, and aeration of soil, as evidenced by the highest plant height found in treatment T8 and lowest plant height observed in treatment T1. The outcome showed that better plant height of beet roots was seen with the combined application of FYM, Vermicompost, and PSB. The results were accorded with Gyewali et al. (2020).\r\nNumber of Leaves. The number of leaves per plant was greatly affected by organic manure and biofertilizer. With respect to time, the number of leaves gradually grew. At 25, 50 DAS, and harvest stage after planting, the number of leaves per plant varied significantly (Table 2), respectively. The treatment T8 (FYM (10 t/ha) + VC (2.5 t/ha) + PSB (2.5 kg/ha) produced the most leaves per plant (8.75, 15.41, 18.58), followed by treatments T7 (FYM (10 t/ha) + VC (2.5 t/ha) (7.66, 13.75, 16.66), and T5 PSB (2.5 kg/ha) + VC (2.5 t/ha) (7.75, 14.00, 16.33). It may be attributable to the synergistic effects of organic manures and biofertilizer, which finally resulted in better growing conditions with the provision of sufficient plant nutrients.\r\nThe minimum number of leaves were found in the treatment control T1 (6.33, 11.91, 14.25) at 25, 50 and harvest stage respectively.\r\nRoot Attributes\r\nRoot length (cm). According to the findings in Table 3, beetroot root length was greatly increased by applying organic manure and biofertilizer treatments. Application of biofertilizer and organic manures combined Compared to other treatments, (T8) FYM (10 t/ha) + VC (2.5 t/ha) + PSB (2.5 kg/ha) produced significantly longer roots (11.84 cm). \r\nThe minimum root length found with control T1 (8.60 cm). Such effect of bio fertilizer along with organic manure application on root size may be attributed active role of bacteria which released from bio fertilizer in producing certain growth regulators and stimulation compounds such as GA3 and IAA which play an important role in formation a large and active root system and also due to availability of sufficient amount of nitrogen, phosphorus by organic manures of natural status of nutrient present in soil and therefore increasing nutrient uptake. Similar results were suggested by Jabeen et al. (2018).\r\nRoot Diameter (cm). Application of organic manures combined with biofertilizer had a substantial impact on root diameter in this study, according to data collected and analyzed in Table 3. Roots in the treatment of combined organic manure and Phosphorus solubilizing bacteria (PSB) as biofertilizer with FYM (10 t/ha) + VC (2.5 t/ha) + PSB (2.5 kg/ha) in T8 (6.17cm) were significantly thicker than all other treatments whereas treatments T4 (5.44 cm), T3 (5.24 cm), T7 (5.19 cm) and T2 (5.18 cm) at par each other. The minimum root diameter (4.21 cm) under control. The results are accorded with Devi et al. (2016).\r\nRoot Yield\r\nRoot yield in gram per plant. At various phases of plant development, the application of PSB, FYM, and vermicompost had a substantial impact on the root production (g/plant). Table 4 data analysis and presentation. The application of FYM (10 t/ha) + VC (2.5 t/ha) + PSB (2.5 kg/ha) in T8 resulted in the highest beet root yield (118.33g), followed by FYM (10 t/ha) + VC (2.5 t/ha) in T7 (104.16g), which is considerably better than control, and the lowest was reported in control T1 (76.04g). According to Thanunathan et al. (1997) similar findings were reported \r\nRoot yield in kg per plot. At various phases of plant growth, the application of PSB, FYM, and vermicompost had a substantial impact on the root yield (kg/plot). Table 4 data analysis and presentation. The application of FYM (10 t/ha) + VC (2.5 t/ha) + PSB (2.5 kg/ha) in T8 resulted in the highest beet root yield (5.68 kg), followed by FYM (10 t/ha) + VC (2.5 t/ha) in T7 (5.0 kg), which is considerably higher than control, while the lowest yield was reported in control T1 (3.65kg). Similar results were suggested by Ijoyah et al. (2008).\r\nRoot yield in quintal per hectare. The use of organic manures and biofertilizer in combination had a significant impact on the root yield. The findings are shown in Table 4. The application of FYM (10 t/ha) + VC (2.5 t/ha) + PSB (2.5 kg/ha) T8 (142.0 q/ha) produced the maximum root yield, followed by FYM (10 t/ha) + VC (2.5 t/ha) T7 (125.0 q/ha). Control T1 produced the lowest yield (91.25 q/ha). Similar results were suggested by Anna and Maria (2013).\r\nTotal soluble solids (°Brix). The application of organic manures and biofertilizer, as well as their combinations, had a substantial impact on the TSS of roots. The data that were analysed were shown in Table 5. The application of FYM (10 t/ha) + VC (2.5 t/ha) + PSB (2.5 kg/ha) T8 (19.36) produced the highest TSS, which was followed by FYM (10 t/ha) + VC (2.5 t/ha) T7 (18.20). The Control T1 had the lowest TSS (13.20). Similar result were reported by Mog (2015).\r\nHarvest Index. The calculations and results for the harvest index are shown in Table 5. The application of FYM (10 t/ha) + VC (2.5 t/ha) + PSB (2.5 kg/ha) had a considerable impact on the harvest index as well. FYM (10 t/ha) + VC (2.5 t/ha) + PSB (2.5 kg/ha) T8 (0.69) and FYM (10 t/ha) + VC (2.5 t/ha) T7 (0.67) had the highest harvest indices, whereas control T1 had the lowest (0.60). Similar result were reported by Carter et al. (1985).\r\n','Manjesh Kumar, I.N. Shukla, Braj Kishor, Nirankar, Ravi Pratap and Subham Singh (2022). Effect of Organic Manures and Biofertilizer on Growth, Yield and quality of Beetroot (Beta vulgaris L.) cv. Red express. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 14(3): 1424-1427.'),(5493,'136','Studies on Effect of Colchicine on Growth and Yield of Tuberose (Agave amica)','B.L. Sravani, P.L. Kameswari, A.V.D. Dorajee Rao and D.R. Salomi Suneetha','243 Studies on Effect of Colchicine on Growth and Yield of Tuberose _Agave amica_ B L Sravani.pdf','',1,'The present investigation entitled “Studies on effect of colchicine on growth and yield of tuberose (Agave amica)” was conducted at College of Horticulture, Venkataramannagudem, West Godavari district of Andhra Pradesh during October 2021 - June 2022 with the objective of finding out the best concentration of colchicine and dipping time for improving the performance of the plant. The experiment was carried out in a factorial randomized block design comprising eighteen treatment combinations with two replications from two factors i.e., concentration of colchicine at six levels viz., colchicine (0, 100, 200, 300, 400 and 500 ppm). The second factor was dipping time at three levels (3, 6 and 9 h). The study revealed significant differences among colchicine concentrations, dipping times and their interactions for different growth and yield characters. Bulbs treated with colchicine @ 500 ppm for a dipping time of 9 h performed best with respect to plant height, number of leaves per plant, leaf length, leaf width, leaf chlorophyll content and number of bulbs per plant. Days taken for sprouting of bulbs and number of florets per spike noticed to be best with colchicine @ 0 ppm + 3 h whereas, sprouting percentage and survival percentage was observed to the best with colchicine @ 0 ppm at all the dipping times. From the present investigation, it can be concluded that the bulbs treated with colchicine @ 500 ppm for 9 h of dipping time exhibited superior performance with respect to most of the growth and yield characters in tuberose.','Colchicine, bulbs, dipping time, survival, growth','Among different colchicine concentrations evaluated, the bulbs treated with colchicine @ 500 ppm recorded highest plant height, number of leaves per plant, leaf length, leaf width, leaf chlorophyll content and number of bulbs per plant. However, days taken for sprouting, sprouting percentage, survival percentage and number of florets per spike performed best in case of colchicine @ 0 ppm.\r\nAmong dipping times, dipping for 9 h was noticed to be maximum for plant height, number of leaves per plant, leaf length, leaf width, leaf chlorophyll content and number of bulbs per plant whereas, 3 h was recorded best for days taken for sprouting of bulbs, sprouting percentage, survival percentage and number of florets per spike. It can be concluded from the present study that, colchicine @ 500 ppm + 9 h proved to be the best for most of the growth and yield characters. \r\n','INTRODUCTION\r\nTuberose (Agave amica), formerly named as Polianthes tuberosa, is one of the most important tropical ornamental bulbous flowering plants cultivated for its beautiful, elegant, sweet-scented long lasting spikes. It is popularly known as Rajanigandha or Nishigandha. It belongs to family Asparagaceae with basic chromosome number of n = 30 and is native of Mexico. It has great economic potential both as cut as well as loose flower crop due to its pleasant fragrance and long lasting nature. It is commercially propagated vegetatively by means of bulbs. It is a day neutral plant, requires a temperature of 20°C–30°C and high humidity for its luxuriant growth. The main emphasis in breeding tuberose is to improve floral traits viz., colour, flower form, size, number of florets, shelf life, vase life, year-round production and growth habit. Since it is a vegetatively propagated crop, one of the options to create variation is by induction of polyploidy. Polyploidy may occur naturally due to the formation of unreduced gametes or can be induced artificially by doubling the number of chromosomes. Artificial induction of polyploidy by colchicine provides a tool to overcome the limitations of variability in plants. Polyploidy has now become one of the most important technologies for the development of new varieties. In some cases, when the crossing between two species is not possible because of differences in ploidy level, polyploids can be used as a bridge for gene transferring between them. Polyploidy can be induced artificially by the use of chemicals like colchicine, oryzalin and trifluralin. Type, dosage and duration of application (exposure time) of the chemical are considered as the main factors. Amongst them, colchicine is the most applied and well-known antimitotic agent which is found to have higher specificity for tubulin binding sites in plant materials.\r\nHence the present investigation has been planned with the objective to study the effect of colchicine on growth and yield characters of tuberose.\r\nMATERIAL AND METHODS\r\nThe research work was carried out at College of Horticulture, Venkataramannagudem, West Godavari district of Andhra Pradesh during October 2021- June 2022. The design of the experiment is factorial randomized block design with 2 factors. The first factor is concentration of colchicine which has 6 levels, (C1: 0 ppm, C2: 100 ppm, C3: 200 ppm, C4: 300 ppm, C5: 400 ppm and C6: 500 ppm). The second factor is dipping time consisting 3 levels namely, D1: 3 h, D2: 6 h and D3: 9 h. It has 18 treatment combinations with 2 replications. \r\nHealthy, disease free and uniform sized bulbs of 2- 2.5 cm were selected for planting. After imposing the treatments, bulbs were planted at a spacing of 30 cm between the rows and 30 cm between the plants. The number of plants per plot (4 m²) are 44.\r\nRESULTS AND DISCUSSION\r\nDays taken for sprouting of bulbs \r\nDays taken for sprouting varied significantly with the concentration of colchicine and dipping time as well as their interactions (Table 1, 2 and 3).\r\nAmong colchicine concentrations, colchicine @ 0 ppm (C1) performed the best with minimum number of days (15.60 days) for sprouting followed by the bulbs treated with colchicine @ 100 ppm (C2) (17.21 days) while, maximum delay was observed for sprouting of bulbs (22.32 days) with colchicine @ 500 ppm (C6). The bulbs dipped for 3 h (D1) recorded the earliest sprouting within 18.20 days followed by dipping of bulbs for 6 h (D2) (18.51 days). Maximum delay was observed for sprouting of bulbs dipped in colchicine for 9 h (D3) (19.56 days). \r\nA significant interaction between colchicine concentration and dipping time was clearly evident for delay in sprouting of bulbs. Significantly less number of days was taken for sprouting (15.23 days) in bulbs treated with colchicine @ 0 ppm + 3 h dipping time (C1D1). Maximum delay was observed for sprouting of bulbs (23.81 days) with colchicine @ 500 ppm + 9 h dipping (C6D3). \r\nDelayed sprouting of bulbs at higher concentrations and dipping time might be probably related with the cytological effect of colchicine in preventing the formation of spindle fibres due to possible chromosome doubling. This perhaps have led to decrease in rate of cell division and cell differentiation thus resulting in maximum number of days for sprouting. These results are in accordance with the Manzoor et al. (2018) in Gladiolus corms, Boora et al. (2003) in Tuberose, Omezzine et al. (2009) in the seeds of sea trigonella and Essel et al. (2015) in Cow pea where we could find the maximum number of days taken for sprouting at higher concentration of colchicine.\r\nSprouting percentage (%). There were significant differences in percentage of bulbs due to the influence of colchicine concentration and dipping time. However, the interaction effect was found non-significant (Table 1, 2 and 3).\r\nThe influence of different concentrations of colchicine revealed that colchicine @ 0 ppm (C1) significantly recorded the highest percentage (100%) of sprouted bulbs, followed by 100 ppm (C2) which recorded (97.40%) whereas, the lowest percentage of sprouted bulbs were noticed at a colchicine concentration of 500 ppm (C5) with 86.59%.\r\n Among dipping times, dipping for 3 h (D1) produced significantly maximum percentage of sprouting (94.70%) whereas, dipping time of 9 h (D3) reported minimum sprouting percentage of 93.31%.\r\nThe interaction means revealed that no significant difference was observed with respect to sprouting percentage of bulbs. The bulbs treated with 0 ppm colchicine recorded maximum sprouting percentage (100%) at all the dipping times i.e., C1D1, C1D2 and C1D3. It was observed to be minimum (85.97%) at 500 ppm of colchicine with 9 h dipping time (C6D3).\r\n The observations recorded in the present investigation revealed that there was a decline in the per cent sprouting for every rise in the concentration of colchicine. Rejeb et al. (2014) stated that different defence mechanisms such as synthesis of heat shock proteins, activation of ion channels and phytohormones regulate the gene expression that has made the plant to survive by tolerating the phytotoxic chemical stress. The decline in sprouting percentage might be due to impediment in the physiological processes like hormonal imbalance, enzyme activity and inhibition of mitosis. It could also be due to the damage caused to cell membrane and other cellular constituents leading to breaks, physiological injuries (Khan and Goyal 2009) and ultimately the metabolic activity of the cells. Kumar et al. (2013) stated that the decline in sprouting might be due to toxic nature of the chemical mutagen. The results of our present investigation are in accordance with those of Pawar et al. (2020) in Garlic, Manzoor et al. (2018) in Gladiolus, Essel et al. (2015) in Cow pea and Mensah et al. (2005) in Sesame.\r\nSurvival percentage (%). There were significant differences in the survival percentage among the treatments under the influence of concentration of colchicine. However, the dipping time and the interaction effect was found non-significant (Table 1, 2 and 3).\r\nAmong colchicine concentrations, colchicine @ 0 ppm (C1) resulted in maximum percentage of survival with 100% plants followed by colchicine @ 100 ppm (C2) recording 82.20% of survival. The minimum survival percentage (74.32%) was observed in colchicine @ 500 ppm (C6). \r\nThe effect of dipping time in colchicine for survival percentage was found non-significant. Among dipping times, dipping for 3 h (D1) was found to be the best showing maximum percentage of survival with 82.43% whereas, it was recorded to be minimum at 9 h of dipping (D3) with 80.24%.\r\n The interaction between colchicine concentration and dipping time for survival percentage was found non significant. Corresponding to survival percentage, the maximum values were recorded with colchicine @ 0 ppm at all the dipping times (C1D1, C1D2 and C1D3) with 100% of survival. This was followed by colchicine @ 100 ppm + 3 h of dipping (C2D1) which recorded 84.09%, whereas, minimum survival percentage (72.73%) was reported with 500 ppm colchicine with 9 h of dipping (C6D3). \r\nFrom the recorded data, it can be concluded that the survival percentage of plants was found to decrease with an increase in the concentration of colchicine. Reduction in survival rate might be due to tissue necrosis caused when the bulbs were soaked in different colchicine concentrations. Higher dose of colchicine might be toxic to the plant cell causing imbalance and affecting the internal process of cell. The results of our present investigation are in consistence with Zhang et al. (2007) in Phlox subulata, Chen et al. (2011) in Anthurium, Gantait et al. (2011) in Gerbera, Atichart (2013) in Dendrobium chrystotoxum, and Omidbaigi et al. (2010) in Basil. \r\nPlant height (cm). The data pertaining to plant height varied significantly by the influence of colchicine concentration, dipping time and their interactions (Table 1, 2 and 3).\r\nTreating of bulbs with colchicine @ 500 ppm (C6) resulted in maximum plant height of 53.74 cm followed by colchicine @ 400 ppm (C5) which recorded 50.93 cm of plant height whereas, the minimum plant height of 48.14 cm was observed in colchicine @ 0 ppm (C1). Among dipping times, 9 h (D3) had the maximum plant height throughout the period of study and recorded 51.52 cm, whereas, minimum was found at dipping for 3 h (D1) with 50.07 cm.\r\nThe interaction between colchicine concentration and dipping time for plant height was significant. The maximum plant height was observed significant in bulbs treated with colchicine @ 500 ppm + 9 h of dipping (C6D3) with 53.89 cm. This was followed by colchicine @ 500 ppm + 6 h of dipping (C6D2) with 53.72 cm. The minimum plant height was recorded in 0 ppm colchicine + 3 h of dipping time (C1D1) with 48.10 cm. \r\nApplication of colchicine upto 500 ppm caused an increase in plant height (cm) which might be due to the phenotypic effect in polyploid plants. The changes in cell division and cell differentiation perhaps have led to an increase in cell size due to possible chromosomal doubling ultimately resulting in increase of plant height. Similar findings were reported by Alam et al. (2001) in Potato, Boora et al. (2003) in Tuberose, Koriech (2007) in Snapdragon and Larkspur, Azizan et al. (2021) in Stevia and Kushwah et al. (2021) in Vicia faba and Chrysanthemum.\r\nNumber of leaves per plant. Number of leaves per plant exhibited significant differences due to the influence of colchicine concentration, dipping time and their interaction (Table 1, 2 and 3). \r\nThe number of leaves per plant was significantly higher with the treatment of colchicine at 500 ppm (C6) which produced 29.09 leaves. This was followed by colchicine @ 400 ppm (C5) with 28.14 leaves per plant. While, the minimum number of leaves per plant was observed with 0 ppm colchicine (C1) showing 24.18 leaves per plant. \r\nAmong different dipping times, 9 h (D3) recorded significantly maximum number of leaves per plant viz., 27.88. Whereas, minimum number of leaves per plant (25.47) was reported in 3 h of dipping time (D1). \r\nThe interaction between colchicine concentrations and dipping times for number of leaves per plant was significant except at 60 DAP. The maximum number of leaves per plant (31.37) was observed significant in bulbs treated with colchicine @ 500 ppm + dipping for 9 h (C6D3). It was found to be minimum with 23.87 leaves per plant which was observed with treatment of colchicine @ 0 ppm + 3 h of dipping (C1D1).\r\nIncrease in the number of leaves per plant might be due to increase in cell proliferation rate which in turn was due to the increased physiological activity of cell due to possible chromosome doubling. The results of our present investigation are in accordance with Rahayu et al. (2014) in Tuberose, Alam et al. (2001) in Potato and He et al. (2016) in Tagetes erecta that there was an increase in leaf number with colchicine treatment.\r\nLeaf length (cm). The results revealed that colchicine concentration, dipping time and their interaction caused significant variation in the leaf length (Table 1, 2 and 3).\r\nAmong colchicine concentrations, 500 ppm (C6) recorded maximum leaf length with an average value of 52.27 cm. This was followed by colchicine @ 400 ppm (C5) with an average leaf length of 50.45 cm whereas colchicine @ 0 ppm recorded the minimum observation of 47.54 cm. \r\nThe maximum value of leaf length (50.74 cm) with respect to dipping time was recorded in the bulbs dipped for 9 h (D3) which was followed by dipping up to 6 h (D2) with a leaf length of 49.75 cm.\r\nThe interaction effect of both the colchicine concentrations and dipping times revealed a remarkable variation and was found significant among all the treatments. Maximum leaf length (52.57 cm) was perceived when the bulbs were treated with 500 ppm colchicine for a dipping time of 9 h (C6D3) followed by colchicine @ 500 ppm + 6 h of dipping time with 52.25 cm. It was found to be minimum at 0 ppm colchicine coupled with 3 h of dipping (C1D1) which recorded a leaf length of 47.50 cm.\r\nApplication of different colchicine concentrations at various dipping durations caused an increase in leaf length (cm). This could be due to the phenotypic effect in polyploid plants which led to changes in cell division and cell differentiation. This perhaps have led to an increase in cell size due to possible chromosomal doubling ultimately resulting in increase of leaf length. Similar findings were observed by Gantait et al. (2011) in Gerbera, Talebi et al. (2017) in Anise hyssop, Azizan et al. (2021) in Stevia and Shaikh et al. (2021) in Commelina benghalensis.\r\nLeaf width (mm). The influence of colchicine concentrations, dipping times and their interactions on mean leaf width was significant (Table 1, 2 and 3). \r\nThe influence of various colchicine concentrations on bulbs of tuberose revealed that colchicine @ 500 ppm (C6) significantly performed the best with maximum lead width recording 15.70 mm. This was followed by colchicine @ 400 ppm (C5) which recorded a leaf width of 14.53 mm. The mean minimum leaf width was observed in 0 ppm colchicine (C1) with 13.13 mm.\r\nThe maximum value of leaf width with regard to dipping times was observed in the bulbs treated up to 9 h of dipping (D3) which recorded 14.49 mm whereas, minimum value of leaf width was noticed for a dipping time of 3 h (D1) with 13.80 mm. \r\nThe interaction between colchicine concentrations and dipping times for leaf width was significant. The maximum leaf width (16.10 mm) was observed in bulbs treated with colchicine @ 500 ppm + 9 h of dipping (C6D3) followed by colchicine @ 500 ppm + dipping for 6 h (C6D2) with 15.80 mm leaf width. The minimum leaf width of 13.00 mm was recorded with colchicine @ 0 ppm and at 3 h of dipping time (C1D1). The significant increase in leaf width due to colchicine might be due to the phenotypic effect in polyploid plants which led to changes in cell division and cell differentiation. This perhaps have led to an increase in cell size due to possible chromosomal doubling ultimately resulting in increase of leaf width. Similar findings were also reported by Zhang et al. (2007) in Phlox, Gantait et al. (2011) in Gerbera, Talebi et al. (2017) in Anise hyssop, Mo et al. (2020) in Rhododendron fortunei, Bhattarai et al. (2021) in Gerbera and Shaikh et al. (2021) in Commelina benghalensis.\r\nLeaf chlorophyll content (SPAD units). In the present investigation, colchicine concentrations, dipping times as well as their interactions were found to have significantly influenced the leaf chlorophyll content (Table 1, 2 and 3).\r\nAmong the colchicine concentrations, maximum leaf chlorophyll content was noticed in colchicine @ 500 ppm (C6) with 59.90 SPAD units. This was followed by bulbs treated with colchicine @ 400 ppm (C5) recording 59.33 SPAD units, while the minimum leaf chlorophyll content (52.07 SPAD units) was observed with 0 ppm colchicine concentration (C1). \r\nWith respect to dipping times, the bulbs dipped for 9 h (D3) showed significantly maximum leaf chlorophyll content (58.53 SPAD units) while, significantly minimum leaf chlorophyll content was reported as 55.44 SPAD units with 3 h of dipping time (D1).\r\nAmong interactions, the maximum value for leaf chlorophyll was noticed at 500 ppm colchicine concentration in combination with a dipping time of 9 h (C6D3) (61.81 SPAD units) which was followed by colchicine @ 400 ppm + 9 h of dipping (C5D3) with 61.22 SPAD units. The data was recorded as the minimum for leaf chlorophyll at 0 ppm colchicine + dipping for 3 h (C1D1) i.e., control (52.00 SPAD units). \r\nHigher content of leaf chlorophyll can be ascribed to the greater size of cells in leaves due to the application of colchicine. The results of our present investigation are in conformity with the findings of Mensah et al. (2007) in Sesame and Ye et al. (2009) in Crape myrtle.\r\nNumber of florets per spike. The effect of colchicine concentration, dipping time and their interaction was found to exert significant influence on the number of florets per spike (Table 1, 2 and 3).\r\nA perusal of data clearly indicated that number of florets per spike was found maximum (27.43) by the application of colchicine @ 0 ppm (C1). It was followed by colchicine @ 100 ppm (C2) which recorded 26.10 florets per spike. Colchicine @ 500 ppm (C6) recorded the minimum number of florets per spike as (23.74). \r\nAmong dipping times, 3 h (D1) recorded the maximum number of florets per spike (26.53) which gradually decreased up on the extent of dipping for 6 h (D2) with 24.88 florets.\r\nAmong the interactions, the treatment comprising 0 ppm colchicine + 3 h of dipping time (C1D1) recorded maximum number of florets per spike (27.75). It was followed by colchicine @ 0 ppm + 6 h of dipping time (C1D2) with 27.51 florets while, the minimum number of florets per spike (23.10) were noticed in colchicine @ 500 ppm + 9 h dipping time (C6D3).\r\nThe decline in the number of florets noticed might be due to irregular growth and development of the plants caused due to application of colchicine. A deprivation in the assimilation of carbohydrates due to certain physiological mechanisms might also be responsible for the decline in the number of florets. The results of our present investigation are in consistence with those of \r\nYe et al. (2010) in Crape myrtle, Zaffar et al. (2003) in Saffron and Koriech et al. (2007) in Snapdragon and Larkspur reported that there was reduction in the number of florets. The data with respect to weight of hundred florets as influenced by colchicine concentration, dipping time and their interaction was found significant. \r\nAmong the different colchicine concentrations, the treatment consisting colchicine @ 500 ppm (C6) recorded maximum mean weight of hundred florets with 131.14 g. It was followed by colchicine @ 400 ppm (C5) with 129.83 g whereas, minimum weight of hundred florets was recorded as 126.39 g.\r\nWith respect to dipping time, maximum weight of hundred florets (129.37 g) was recorded at 9 h of dipping time (D3). It was noticed to be minimum with 128.00 g for a dipping of 3 h (D1).\r\nAmong the interaction of colchicine concentrations and dipping times, weight of hundred florets was found to be maximum with 131.74 g in 500 ppm colchicine + 9 h dipping time (C6D3). It was followed by colchicine @ 500 ppm + 6 h of dipping (131.50 g). While, minimum weight of hundred florets was recorded in 0 ppm colchicine + 3 h of dipping (C1D1) with 126.25 g.\r\nIncrease in the weight of hundred florets might be due to an increase in the size, length, diameter of the flower and thickness of the petals in colchicine treated plants caused due to increase in cell size. This increase in cell size could be due to possible chromosome doubling in the cells. Similar results were documented by Boora et al. (2003) in Tuberose and Manzoor et al. (2018) in Gladiolus who reported an increase in weight of the floret. \r\n','B.L. Sravani, P.L. Kameswari, A.V.D. Dorajee Rao and D.R. Salomi Suneetha (2022). Studies on Effect of Colchicine on Growth and Yield of Tuberose (Agave amica). Biological Forum – An International Journal, 14(3): 1428-1433.'),(5494,'136','Efficacy of new Seed Treatment and Granular Insecticides against Sucking Pests of Greengram (Vigna radiata L.)','P. Alekya, A. Venkat Reddy, D. Veeranna and N. Sandhya Kishore','244 Efficacy of New Seed Treatment and Granular Insecticides against Sucking Pests of Greengram _Vigna radiata L..pdf','',1,'Field experiment was conducted during rabi 2021-22 to evaluate efficacy of seed treatment, granular insecticides and seed treatment in combination with soil spraying of acephate against sucking pest complex in greengram at Regional Agricultural Research Station, Warangal, PJTSAU. The overall mean data obtained from 7 DAG up to 56 DAG revealed that seed treatment with cyantraniliprole 19.8% + thiamethoxam 19.8% @ 4 ml kg-1 seed + soil spraying of acephate @ 3 g l-1 was the most effective treatments against thrips with 88.93 % mean reduction of thrips over control, which was followed by seed treatment with acephate @ 5g kg-1 seed + soil spraying of acephate @ 3 g l-1 ( 86.73 % mean reduction) and seed treatment with chlorantraniliprole @ 8 ml kg-1 seed + soil spraying of acephate @ 3 g l-1 (77.03 % mean reduction). Granular application of fipronil @ 10 kg ha-1 was found to be most effective treatment against aphids (79.45 % mean reduction) and whitefly population (67.31 % mean reduction) in rabi greengram. ','Seed treatment, granular insecticides, soil spraying, sucking pests, greengram','In the present field study, certain new seed treatment insecticides, granular insecticides and acephate as soil spraying in combination with seed treatment were tested for their efficacy against sucking pests such as thrips, aphids and whiteflies during rabi, 2021-22. Based on the data recorded with regard to thrips, it can be concluded that, among all the treatments, seed treatment with Cyantraniliprole 19.8% + thiamethoxam 19.8% + soil spraying of acephate at 20 and 40 DAG was superior in efficacy followed by seed treatment with acephate 75 % SP + soil spraying of acephate at 20 and 40 DAG. With regard to aphids, application of fipronil granules was found to be the most effective treatment followed by benfuracarb 3% G. The treatment Fipronil 0.6% G was found to be the most superior in efficacy against whiteflies followed by seed treatment with Cyantraniliprole 19.8% + thiamethoxam 19.8% + soil spraying of acephate at 20 and 40 DAG.','INTRODUCTION\r\nPulses are center of proteins, they are frequently called as poor-man’s meat and rich man\'s vegetable. India accounts for about 33% of world area and with 22% of world’s production of pulses (Soundararajan and Chitra 2011). Greengram (Vigna radiata L.) is the third most important crop in India after chickpea and pigeon pea. In India, area covered by green gram is 4.74 million hectares with a production of 2.62 metric tonnes and productivity of 0.55 t/ha (AICRP on MULLaRP, Annual Report, 2020-21). Potential yields and good quality seed can be achievable during Rabi season, but insect pests pose a major threat especially sucking pests (thrips, whiteflies, aphids and viral diseases). The annual yield loss due to the insect pests has been estimated at about 30 per cent in greengram out of which, whitefly can cause losses around 30-70 % and thrips can cause 40% losses (Soundararajan and Chitra 2011). Sucking pests should be controlled even from early stage itself especially thrips and whiteflies which are considered as major threat to rabi greengram. Sucking pests were the significant nuisances in beginning phases of growth since they decreases the energy of plant and also act as vectors for many viral diseases. Several foliar insecticides have been recommended for combating various insect pests attacking greengram. \r\nSuch sole reliance on foliar insecticides has created many problems such as very frequent application of insecticides led to excessive residues in the produce, which are the concerns of general consumer health and environment, insecticides resistance, poisoning and hazards to non target organisms and increased production costs etc. (Rao et al., 2000). Hence, it is necessary to identify new seed treatment molecules, new granular insecticides and combination of seed treatment with effective soil spraying of liquid insecticides against sucking pests in greengram.\r\nMATERIALS AND METHODS\r\nA field experiment was conducted to test the efficacy of seed treatment, granular insecticides and seed treatment in combination of soil spraying of insecticides against sucking pests, thrips, aphids and whiteflies infesting greengram. The experiment was carried out at Regional Agricultural Research Station (RARS), Warangal during the Rabi season of year 2021-2022. The experiment was laid out in Randomized block design with ten treatments and 3 replications with plot size was 7.5 Sq.mt with a spacing of 30 cm × 10 cm. The popular variety of greengram WGG-42 was used while conducting the experiment. The details of treatments imposed in experiment are given below.\r\nThe recommended amount of insecticide and arabic gum were added to one kilogram of greengram seeds in polythene cover and the mixture was shaken vigorously to ensure that the insecticides were evenly distributed throughout the seeds. The seeds were then used for sowing after being dried for 24 hours. All granular insecticides were applied in soil twice, at the time of sowing and 20 days after sowing (DAS), whereas soil spraying of acephate was carried out at 20 and 40 days after sowing in conjunction with seed treatments. The sucking pests: thrips, aphids and whiteflies were recorded early morning. The number of sap-sucking pests was counted by tapping the top two, middle two, and bottom two leaves on a white piece of paper at weekly intervals from 7 days after germination (DAG) up to 56 days after germination (DAG) on five randomly selected and tagged plants as suggested by Men and Sarode (1999) for whiteflies and Rathore and Tiwari for thrips (1999) during morning hours. The data was subjected for square root transformation and statistical analysis. \r\nRESULTS AND DISCUSSION\r\nThrips. The mean population of thrips per six leaves varied between different treatments, including the untreated control, and ranged from 0.61 to 5.51 (Table 2 and Fig. 1). Among all the treatments evaluated seed treatment with cyantraniliprole 19.8% + thiamethoxam 19.8% @ 4 ml kg-1 seed + soil spraying of acephate @ 3 g l-1(T7) was found to be the most effective treatment against thrips as only 0.61 thrips per six leaves was recorded with 88.93% reduction of thrips population over untreated control. Seed treatment with acephate @ 5g kg-1 seed + soil spraying of acephate @ 3 g l-1 (T9) recorded 0.73 thrips per six leaves (86.73% reduction), followed by seed treatment with chlorantraniliprole @ 8 ml kg-1 seed + soil spraying of acephate @ 3 g l-1 (T8) (77.03% reduction) with 1.26 thrips per six leaves. While seed treatment with chlorantraniliprole @ 8 ml kg-1 seed (T2) (26.54% reduction) and application of chlorantraniliprole granules @ 10 kg ha-1 (T5) (25.75% reduction) were recorded as least effective treatments with 4.05 and 4.09 thrips per six leaves and were on par with each other. The population of thrips was significantly highest in untreated control (T10) with a mean population of 5.51 thrips per six leaves. The results are in concurrence with Jordan et al. (2006) who revealed that acephate @ 1.1 kg ha-1 applied in soil furrow was proved to be very effective in controlling tobacco thrips in peanut. Similarly, Mahoney et al. (2018) also reported that acephate @ 1.1 kg a.i. ha-1, imidacloprid @ 0.21 kg a.i. ha-1 and phorate @ 0.56 kg a.i. ha-1 applied in the soil furrows at the time of planting were most effective in reducing thrips population in peanut. Majumdar et al. (2020) also reported that, in soil furrow application of admire Pro 4.6 F and orthene 75 S were most effective in controlling thrips population in peanut. \r\nAphids. The mean population of aphids was ranged in between 1.57 to 7.66 across the different treatments including untreated control and the per cent reduction was ranged in between 79.54 to 34.34% (Table 3 and Fig. 2). Among all the treatments tested, application of fipronil granules (T6) @ 10 kg ha-1 (79.54% reduction) was found to be most effective treatment in controlling aphid population as only 1.57 aphids per six leaves was recorded, followed by application benfuracarb granules (T4) @ 25 kg ha-1 (75.32% reduction) with 1.89 aphids per six leaves. Where as application of chlorantraniliprole granules (T5) @ 10 kg ha-1 (35.48% reduction), seed treatment with chlorantraniliprole @ 8 ml kg-1 seed + soil spraying of acephate @ 3 g l-1 (T8) (34.34% reduction)and seed treatment with chlorantraniliprole @ 8 ml kg-1 seed (T2) (33.90% reduction) were found to be least effective treatments against aphids with 4.95, 5.03 and 5.06 aphids per six leaves respectively. Significantly highest population of aphids was noticed from untreated control (T10) with 7.66 aphids per six leaves. The present results obtained were in accordance with Surulivelu and Kumaraswami (1990) who concluded that carbofuran granules @ 1 kg a.i. ha-1 was effective in controlling aphids up to 47 DAS in cotton. Similarly, Zhang et al. (2015) also concluded that application of clothianidin granules @ 3.6 kg a.i. ha-1 was effective against aphids in cotton up to 115 days after planting. Further, Adama et al. (2016) also stated that single application of carbofuran 3G granules was very effective against aphids in cowpea. Shah et al. (2021) also concluded that fipronil 0.3G @ 25 kg ha-1 performed best and was on par with fipronil 0.3G @ 20 kg ha-1, cartap hydrochloride 4G @ 20 kg ha-1 and cartap hydrochloride 4G @ 25 kg ha-1.\r\nWhiteflies. The mean population of whiteflies was ranged from 1.68 (application of fipronil granules @ 10 kg ha-1) to 5.14 (Untreated control) (Table 4 and Fig. 3). Among all the treatments tested, application of fipronil granules @ 10 kg ha-1 (T6) (67.31% reduction) was found to be most effective treatment in controlling whitefly population as only 1.68 whiteflies per six leaves was recorded. This treatment was followed by seed treatment with cyantraniliprole 19.8% + thiamethoxam 19.8% @ 4 ml kg-1 seed + soil spraying \r\nof acephate @ 3 g l-1 (T7) (57.97% reduction) and seed treatment with cyantraniliprole 19.8% + thiamethoxam 19.8% @ 4 ml kg-1 seed (T1) (57.39% reduction) with 2.16 and 2.19 whiteflies per six leaves respectively and were significantly at par with each other. However, application of chlorantraniliprole granules @ 10 kg ha-1 (T5) (31.12% reduction), seed treatment with chlorantraniliprole @ 8 ml kg-1 seed + soil spraying of acephate @ 3 g l-1 (T8) (30.73% reduction) and seed treatment with chlorantraniliprole @ 8 ml kg-1 seed (T5) (30.35% reduction) were found to be least effective treatments in controlling whitefly population with 3.54, 3.56 and 3.58 whiteflies per six leaves respectively. Significantly the highest population of whiteflies was recorded in untreated control (T10) with 5.14 whiteflies per six leaves. The results obtained were in accordance with Singh et al. (2017) as they concluded that application of carbofuran granules 3 G @ 1.5 kg a.i. ha-1 at the time of sowing and hoeing was effective in controlling whiteflies population in blackgram. Similarly, Zhang et al. (2017) also stated that spot application of clothianidin granules @ 4 g a.i. ha-1 was most effective in reducing whitefly population in cotton. Shah et al. (2021) also concluded lowest incidence of whiteflies was recorded with fipronil 0.3G @ 25 kg ha-1 which was on par with fipronil 0.3G @ 20 kg ha-1 in potato.\r\n','P. Alekya, A. Venkat Reddy, D. Veeranna and N. Sandhya Kishore (2022). Efficacy of New Seed Treatment and Granular Insecticides against Sucking Pests of Greengram (Vigna radiata L.). Biological Forum – An International Journal, 14(3): 1434-1439.'),(5495,'136','Tree Growth, Flowering and Pollen Attributes of Low Chill Peach Cultivars in the Tarai Region of Uttarakhand','Rajender Kumar*, D.C. Dimri, Jitendra Singh Shivran, Lavanya S. and Maneesh Kumar','245 Tree Growth, Flowering and Pollen Attributes of Low Chill Peach Cultivars Rajender Kumar.pdf','',1,'The present study was performed to determine the nature and magnitude of variation among 12 low chill peach cultivars for different tree growth, flowering and pollen attribute and to identify the potential genotypes with respect to these attributes. The investigation was carried out for two years (2021 and 2022) at Horticulture Research Centre, Patharchatta of G. B. Pant University of Agriculture & Technology, Pantnagar. The cultivars Florda Prince recorded the highest tree height (5.40 m), tree spread (4.87 m), trunk girth (82.95 cm) and volume (74.67 m3). In 2021, the earliest bud swell stage was noticed in Florda Gold (8th January), while Selection-12 attained it at last (25th January). However, with a slight delay to the previous year, in 2022, Florda Gold and Florda Prince showed the earliest bud swell stage (16th and 18th January, respectively), whereas Selection-12 displayed most late on the 3rd of February. The density of flower buds was examined as sparse in 4 cultivars; medium in 5; dense in Red June and Shan-i-Punjab; and highly dense in Florda Gold. Concerning pollen viability, the cultivar Florda Prince obtained the highest viability percentage (98.33%) and Selection-12 had the minimum (82.33%). For breeding purposes, the data concerning the variation in dates of bud swell and viability percentage can be valuable. From the present study it is also suggested that the cultivars viz., Florda Gold, Red June and Shan-i-Punjab showing superiority for flower bud density can be utilized as a suitable genetic resource for breeding new low chill peach cultivars. Genetic variability in the cultivars needs to be further examined for their genetic parameters and divergence to have a better understanding of the relationship between the traits at the genotypic and phenotypic levels.','Prunus persica, Growth, Flowering, Pollen viability','A preliminary requirement for the exploitation of useful traits in fruit breeding is identifying and describing the genetic variability available in genotypes. The cultivars having varying dates of bud swell stage and different viability percentages can be useful for initiating any hybridization programme. In crop improvement, yield is a key objective, but it is also a complex phenomenon, affected both biotically and abiotically. One such factor is flower bud density. Therefore, from the present study it is suggested that the cultivars viz., Florda Gold, Red June and Shan-i-Punjab showing superiority for this attribute could be a suitable parent for breeding low chill peach cultivars having a high density of flower buds.','INTRODUCTION\r\nPeach [Prunus persica (L.) Batsch] is one of the most important fruits of the Rosaceae family and ranks 3rd after apples and pears. Though most opine that the peach originates in China (Wang, 1985; and Faust and Timon 1995), a few studies suggest that it originated in Persia. Hilly areas of Tibet and southwest China are the primary centers of peach diversity, while Iran is the secondary center (Kumar et al., 2013). Globally, they are grown on a commercial scale in temperate and subtropical regions. Several different varieties of peaches are grown throughout the world, however, the majority of peach production in India is accounted by a relatively small number of varieties (15-20) (Kumar et al., 2013). \r\nAs a result of high productivity, regular bearing and precocious nature, low chill peach cultivation has gained considerable attention over the past few years. The fruit of these subtropical peaches is harvested nearly two months earlier than those grown in hills, resulting in good economic returns since there are no other major temperate fruit crops in the market during that period (Kumar et al., 2015). However, due to a variety of circumstances, including insufficient cooling and irregular rainfall, the yield and quality of commercial peach cultivars in the sub-tropics of India have dropped in recent years.It could be attributed much to the formation of the blind node in the sub-tropical condition under the current scenario of climate change. Penso et al. (2020) described that the phenological cycle such as dormancy break is most affected under subtropical and tropical conditions, which results in alterations of flowering and effective fruiting, along with branch growth and development (Nava et al., 2009; Couto et al., 2010). There may also be an impact on the formation of buds, especially floral buds, which are not fully developed and form ‘blind nodes’ (Monet et al., 1971; Dennis et al., 2000; Faust, 2000; Williamson et al., 2008). \r\nVariability is the basic requirement of any breeding program; therefore, the characterization and evaluation of germplasm are considered to be an indispensable part of crop improvement programs. The germplasm is a valuable source material because it offers scope for the generation of genetic diversity and its evaluation contributes to the identification of cultivars for its direct or indirect use in the breeding work (Sonaniya and Singh 2022). It focuses mainly on morphological, pomological and phenological characteristics (Yilmaz et al., 2009). There are various standards and guidelines developed both at the international (UPOV; International Union for the Protection of New Varieties of Plants, Geneva and IPGRI; International Plant Genetic Resources Institute, Rome) and national levels (PPV & FRA; Protection of Plant Varieties and Farmer’s Rights Authority, New Delhi) for the taxonomic description and identification of cultivars. The micro-morphological features of pollen grains are also an important diagnostic trait that plays a key role in the identification of different plant species. Besides this, the success of fertilization in controlled pollination depends upon the pollen viability of a genetic resource available and therefore knowledge of such attribute is prerequisite for any crop improvement program. \r\nMATERIALS AND METHOD\r\nExperimental site and experimental materials. The present study was undertaken on twenty years old low chill peach cultivars (12 Nos) maintained at HRC, Patharchatta, of G. B. Pant University of Agriculture and Technology, Pantnagar located in the Tarai belt of the Himalayas at 29.5º North latitude and 79.3º East longitude and an altitude of 243.94 metres above MSL. The climate of the experimental site is humid subtropical with dry and hot summers. \r\nMeasurements and observations.The morphological characterization of 12 low chill peach cultivars was carried out for two consecutive years from January, 2021 to June, 2022. The trees evaluated were all kept under uniform cultural practices throughout the experimentation. Tree attributes viz., height and spread were measured with the help of calibrated staff and tree volume as per the methodology outlined by Westwood (1993). The PPV&FRA test guidelines were followed to evaluate the peach cultivars for different phenological observations (Anonymous, 2015). While the pollen viability was determined using the acetocarmine (1%) test.\r\nStatistical analysis. The experiment was laid out in a randomized block design. All data were subjected to Analyses of Variance (ANOVA). Significant differences among groups were determined using Duncan’s multiple range tests at p<0.05. All computation and statistical analyses were done using IBM SPSS Statistics 19 statistical software (IBM, NY, USA).\r\nRESULTS AND DISCUSSION\r\nTree growth characteristics. Data presented in Table 1 indicate the variability among the cultivars for tree vigour and growth habit. Out of 12 peach cultivars, as many as four (Pratap, Early Grand, Florda Prince and Shan-i-Punjab) were found to have strong vigour, seven had (Florda Gold, Florda Red, Pant Peach-1, Red June, Sharbati Late, Sharbati Surkha and Selection-12) medium vigour and only one (Saharanpur Prabhat) exhibited weak vigour. Variation in tree growth habit was found to be spreading in Florda Prince and rest of all cultivars (Saharanpur Prabhat, Pratap, Early Grand, Florda Gold, Florda Red, Pant Peach-1, Red June, Sharbati Late, Sharbati Surkha, Shan-i-Punjab and Selection-12) displayed upright to spreading growth habit (Table 1).\r\nAll the 12 peach cultivars under study registered considerable variation for tree vigour and growth characteristics. The differential behaviour in tree growth characteristics of the present study confirms the genetic variability of different cultivars. The study by Gradziel and Beres (1993) suggested that trees with upright growth habits may be suitable for high-density planting systems or could be used as a genetic resource to develop short-statured peach scion varieties. Such variation among the cultivars for tree vigour has been reported by Jana (2015), who found that tree vigour varied from semi-vigorous (Pratap and Prabhat) to vigorous (Florida Sun, Shan-i-Punjab and Florda Prince) and to weak type in No. 22. \r\nThakur (2019) also observed upright to spreading nature of growth habit in Andros, Glohaven and Paradelux and upright in Pratap, Redhaven, Shan-i-Punjab and Suncrest. The observations recorded on tree height and spread are presented in Table 1, which revealed the highest tree height value (5.40 m) being noted for Florda Prince and the lowest (3.22 m) for Saharanpur Prabhat. Tree spread ranged from 3.44 m (Saharanpur Prabhat) to 4.87 m (Florda Prince). The highest tree spread value examined in Florda Prince differs non-significantly from Shan-i-Punjab (4.76 m) and Red June (4.68 m).\r\nThe different cultivars under evaluation differed significantly for trunk girth and tree volume (Table 1). Pooled analysis of data revealed the highest trunk girth value (82.95 cm) being noted for Florda Prince and minimum (37.90 cm) for Saharanpur Prabhat. Whereas, with regard to tree volume, Florda Prince had the maximum value (84.16 m3) and Saharanpur Prabhat had the minimum (22.89 m3).In the present study, the genotypes differed considerably for different plant growth attributes. Among the 12 peach cultivars, Florda Prince was found promising genotype for tree height, trunk girth, tree spread and tree volume. Yepthomi (2011) described about ten low-chilling peach cultivars and witnessed maximum tree height in Valle Grand (2.73 m) and minimum in Florda Prince (1.83 m).Previous studies also reported a high variability among peach cultivars for these parameters (Sharma et al., 2012; Kumar, 2015). \r\nFlowering characters. The glance of data presented in Table 2 demonstrated that the date of bud swell varied considerably among all the cultivars under investigation and extended from 8th January (Florda Gold) to 25th January (Selection-12) in the year 2021. The earliest bud swell stage was registered for Florda Gold followed by Florda Prince (10th January) and Pant Peach-1 (10th January). Similarly, during 2022 Florda Gold showed the earliest bud swell stage (16th January) followed by Florda Prince (18th January) and Pant Peach-1 (20th January), whereas, the delayed bud swell stage was noted in Selection-12 (3rd February).The perusal of data on the density of flower buds is presented in Table 2. During both the years of investigation, the sparse density of the flower buds was observed in Saharanpur Prabhat, Pratap, Early Grand and Florda Prince; medium dense in Florda Red, Pant Peach-1, Sharbati Late, Sharbati Surkha and Selection-12; dense in Red June and Shan-i-Punjab whereas highly dense flower buds were reported in the cultivar Florda Gold.\r\nOut of 12 peach cultivars analyzed, only 2 cultivars namely, Pratap and Early were found to have a non-showy type of flower (Table 2), whereas, rest of other displayed showy type of flower. There was a slight difference noticed in the main colours of corollas of different cultivars studied, including very light pink in Saharanpur Prabhat, Florda Prince, Florda Gold, Shan-i-Punjab, light pink in Pratap, Early Grand, Florda Red, Pant Peach-1, Red June, Sharbati Surkha, Selection-12, and medium pink in Sharbati Late (Table 2). It was noted that the shape of petals (Table 2) varied from medium elliptic in Saharanpur Prabhat, Sharbati Surkha and Shan-i-Punjab to narrow elliptic in Pratap, Early Grand, Florda Gold, Sharbati Late and Selection-12 and to medium ovate in Florda Prince, Florda Red, Pant Peach-1 and Red June. While, the number of petals was obtained as five in all the 12 peach cultivars under study.\r\nData pertinent to the flowering shoot thickness (mm) and length of internodes (mm) is presented in Table 3. The flowering shoot thickness was found maximum (4.04 mm) in Early Grand which differ non-significantly from Pratap (4.02 mm), Florda Prince (3.96 mm) and Red June (3.91 m). The minimum shoot thickness was recorded in Selection-12 (2.64 mm). Out of the 12 accessions studied (Table 3), Pratap recorded maximum (27.04 mm) inter-nodal length, which was statistically at par with Early Grand (26.91 mm), Sharbati Surkha (26.27 mm), Shan-i-Punjab (25.24 mm) and Saharanpur Prabhat (24.71 mm). Whereas Florda Gold recorded minimum (20.06 mm) value followed by Selection-12 (21.07 mm), Red June (21.56 mm), Sharbati Late (21.71 mm) and Florda Red (22.54 mm) (Table 3). \r\n\r\nPPV&FRA guidelines described similar findings with respect to flowering shoot thickness and revealed it to be less than 3 mm in Fertilia, Nimla; 3-4 mm in Cresthaven, Snowcrest and greater than 4 mm in Red Globe (Anonymous, 2015). Inter-nodal length of shoots is considered a good indicator of dwarfness in a genotype. Chauhan (2016) recorded maximum (3.88 cm) inter-nodal length in Paradelux whereas minimum in July Elberta (2.39 cm). Chalak et al. (2006) observed a showy flower type in Beccoque and Helberta and a non-showy type in Redhaven and Elberta. Thakur (2019) identified the morphology of the petal as medium elliptic in Andros, Glohaven, Paradelux and Shan-i-Punjab; narrow elliptic in Pratap and circular in Redhaven and Suncrest. The findings of the present investigation also substantiate the report of Qadri et al. (2017); Ikinci and Bolat (2018).\r\nPollen viability. It is evident from the data presented in Table 3 and also displayed in Plate 1that the cultivar under study differs significantly for pollen viability. The cultivar Florda Prince obtained the highest pollen viability (98.33%) which was statistically at par with Pant Peach-1 (96.33%), Pratap (96.00%) and Saharanpur Prabhat (95.67%), while the Selection-12 witnessed the lowest pollen viability percentage (82.33%).\r\nIn general, pollen viability has been reported to vary from species to species, cultivars to cultivars and group to group depending on the ploidy level and the degree of the hybridity of the cultivar. Using acetocarmine (1%) and erythrosine B (0.10%), Singh et al. (2015) investigated the pollen viability of low chill peach cultivars and found that the viability percentage ranged from 94.51 to 98.93% with acetocarmine (1%) and 84.19 to 97.70% with erythrosine B (0.10%). Bodh et al. (2019) also determined the pollen’s viability of peach and reported it to vary from 91.35 per cent to 98.47 per cent with acetocarmine and erythrosine B respectively.\r\n','Rajender Kumar, D.C. Dimri, Jitendra Singh Shivran, Lavanya S. and Maneesh Kumar (2022). Tree Growth, Flowering and Pollen Attributes of Low Chill Peach Cultivars in the Tarai Region of Uttarakhand. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 14(3): 1440-1445.'),(5496,'136','Seasonal activity of Major Sucking Insect Pests on Brinjal (Solanum melongena L.) and Correlation with Weather Parameter','Prince Mahore, Pradyumn Singh, Nikki Bhardwaj and Pawankumar Jatav and Dheerendra Mahor','246 Seasonal activity of Major Sucking Insect Pests on Brinjal Solanum melongena L. Prince Mahore.pdf','',1,'The present investigation was carried out at Research Farm, College of agriculture, Gwalior (M.P.) during Summer 2021 and 2022. The maximum number of Leaf hopper (Cestius phycitis Distant) population (18.50 leaf hopper/plant) and (18.60 leaf hopper/plant) During 20th SMW, during both years. The maximum number of Whitefly (Bemisia tabaci G.) population (15.40 whiteflies/plant) and (16.20 whiteflies/plant) during 19th SMW and 21st SMW Summer 2021 and 2022 respectively. Correlation studies carried out during 2021 and 2022 between meteorological parameters and population of major sucking insect pest, leaf hopper and whitefly, both showed significant positive correlation between maximum temperature (r=0.61. r=0.61 during 2021 and r=0.76, r=0.72 during 2022), minimum temperature (r=0.84, r=0.86 during 2021 and r=0.93, r=0.93 during 2022) and evaporation (r=0.55, r=0.55 during 2021 and r=0.84, r=0.82 during 2022) respectively. Whereas, leaf hopper showed significant negative correlation (r= -0.56) with morning relative humidity during 2022.','Seasonal activity, sucking insect pest, peak population, Leaf hopper, Whitefly, correlation','The present Results concluded that various abiotic factors like temperature, relative humidity, rainfall and evaporation were affect the sucking insect pest population and their multiplication, as per the study of correlation find out that temperature and evaporation showed positive correlation. While, relative humidity and rainfall showed negative correlation.','INTRODUCTION\r\nSolanum melongena L. (known as Bazingan in Egypt, aubergine in France and England, eggplant in the United States, and brinjal in India) is an economically important and popular vegetable crop in India and elsewhere (Daunay, 2008; Zayed et al., 2017). Its fruits range in size, shape and color depending on the varieties. The fruits may be black, purple, purple white, white, yellow or purple. Eggplant has two main groups: long (called Bride) and oval or spherical (called Romy). The fruit should be harvested as soon as it reaches maturity. Any delay in harvest time may increase the bitterness and seeds within the fruit, rendering inferior quality fruit (Zayed et al., 2017). In the world china highest producing country while India in the second position. In India 727 thousand ha. Area and 126.80 lakh MT production in 2018-19 and 736 thousand ha. Area and 127.77 lakh MT production in 2019-20 of brinjal crop (NHB, 2019-20). State wise West Bengal at first with 163.15 thousand ha. area and 30.27 lakh MT production followed by Odisha with 117.92 thousand ha. area and 20.13 lakh MT production, Gujarat with 70.88 thousand ha. area and 14.23 lakh MT production, Bihar with 58.22 thousand ha. area and 12.41 lakh MT production and Madhya Pradesh with 51.35 thousand ha. area and 10.73 lakh MT production in brinjal crop. (Horticultural Statistics at a glance, 2018). So far, the nutritional value of brinjal is concerned, it supplies per 100 g; 25 calories, 0.2 g total fat, 2 mg sodium, 229 mg potassium, 6 g total carbohydrate, 3 g dietary fiber, 3.5 g sugar, 1g protein, vitamins (B-6, B-12 and C), iron, magnesium, phosphorus, etc (USDA, 2013). Among sucking insect pests, jassids and whitefly cause damage from the initial stage of the crop growth. Both nymph and adult of the sucking insects suck the cell sap by congregating on the lower surface of the leaves and lower down the vigorous growth of the plants. The loss caused by sucking pests varies from 10-15 percent depending on the intensity of infestation (Chatterjee et al., 2018).\r\nMATERIAL AND METHODS\r\nThe study on seasonal activity of major sucking insect pests of brinjal was carried out at the research farm of the Department of Entomology, College of Agriculture, RVSKVV, Gwalior during Summer season of 2021 and 2022, on brinjal variety Pusa Safed Baigen. In this experiment, plants were planted at a spacing 60 × 60 cm on plot size 9 × 3.6 m2 area with 3 replications. No pesticide was used throughout the experiment. Population of leaf hopper and whitefly observed on ten plants (3 compound leaves per plant viz., top, middle and bottom) were selected randomly to count the number of sucking insect pests. The data of seasonal activity of major sucking insect pests on different dates were correlated with prevailing minimum and maximum temperature, morning and evening relative humidity, total rainfall and evaporation on the basis of correlation coefficients between the variables. Correlation and regression of the abiotic factors on major sucking insect pest population were worked out by using the formula as suggested by Snedecor and Cochran (1967).\r\nRESULT AND DISCUSSION\r\nLeaf hopper appeared during 9th SMW (1.50 leaf hopper/plant) and remained active till maturity of the crop (14.90 leaf hopper/plant). The peak population of leaf hopper (18.50 leaf hopper/plant) was recorded on 20th SMW, when the minimum and maximum temperature and relative humidity morning and evening were 23.1°C, 36.9°C, 78.1% and 62%, respectively. Whiteflies appeared during 10th standard week (1.20 whiteflies/plant) and remained active till maturity of the crop (13.20 whiteflies/plant). The peak population of whitefly (15.40 whiteflies/plant) was recorded on 19th SMW, when the minimum and maximum temperature and relative humidity morning and evening were 23°C, 41.1°C, 64.2% and 33.2%, respectively during 2021. Whereas, next year of study leaf hopper appeared during 10th SMW (1.20 leaf hopper/plant) and peak population of (18.60 leaf hopper/plant) was recorded on 20th SMW, when the minimum and maximum temperature and relative humidity morning and evening were 28.63°C, 45.5°C, 45.70% and 22.5%, respectively. Whiteflies appeared during 10th standard week (0.7 whiteflies/plant) and peak population (16.20 whiteflies/plant) was recorded on 21st SMW, when the minimum and maximum temperature and relative humidity morning and evening were 26.1°C, 41.6°C, 63.7% and 36.8%, respectively.\r\nPresent finding was concurrence with the finding of Deole (2015). Who studied on brinjal crop and found that the activity of both jassid and whitefly was initiated in the first week of April and the peak activity of these insects was observed during first week of May. Present finding also supported by the finding of Kumar et al. (2022); Dhamdhree et al. (1995).\r\nCorrelation and regression studies. Correlation studies carried out between meteorological parameters and population of leaf hopper, showed positive correlation (r=0.61, r=0.84 and r=0.55) with maximum temperature, minimum temperature and evaporation respectively during 2021. Next year also observed positive correlation (r=0.76, r=0.93 and r=0.84) with maximum temperature, minimum temperature and evaporation respectively. While population of leaf hopper, showed negative correlation (r=-0.56) between morning relative humidity. Regression equation between the population of leaf hopper and maximum temperature, minimum temperature and evaporation were Ŷ1 = -38.67+1.31X1, Ŷ1 = -13.08 + 1.17X2 and Ŷ1= -2.57 + 1.44X6 respectively during the first year of study. Whereas the next year also observed regression equation between the population of leaf hopper and maximum temperature, minimum temperature, evaporation and morning relative humidity were Ŷ1= - 32.29 + 1.04X1, Ŷ1= - 11.17 + 0.94X2, Ŷ1= -5.24 + 1.21X6 and Ŷ1= 24.03 - 0.25X3 respectively.\r\nCorrelation studies also carried out between meteorological parameters and population of whitefly, showed positive correlation (r=0.61, r=0.86 and r=0.55) with maximum temperature, minimum temperature and evaporation respectively during 2021. During 2022 also observed positive correlation (r=0.72, r=0.93 and r=0.82) with maximum temperature, minimum temperature and evaporation respectively. Regression equation between the population of whitefly and maximum and minimum temperature and evaporation was Ŷ2= -35.48 + 1.17X1, Ŷ2= -13.17 + 1.07X2 and Ŷ2= -3.26 + 1.29X6 respectively during the first year of study. While, regression equation between the population of whitefly and maximum and minimum temperature and evaporation was Ŷ2= - 28.26 + 0.90X1, Ŷ2= - 10.90 + 0.85X2, Ŷ2= - 5.25 + 1.08X6 respectively as par the next year of study.\r\nPresent finding concurrence with the Devi et al.,2015, they observed jassid population showed significantly positive correlation with maximum and minimum temperatures. Present finding also supported by the finding of Pal et al. (2019). Studied on population dynamics of major insect pests viz, jassid and shoot and fruit borer on brinjal. Jassid population showed significant positive correlation with maximum temperature (r= 0.77) and minimum temperature (0.79). Whereas, present findings are closely related with the findings of Sushmetha and Hariprasad (2020); Ayyanar et al., (2022).\r\n','Prince Mahore, Pradyumn Singh, Nikki Bhardwaj and Pawankumar Jatav and Dheerendra Mahor (2022). Seasonal activity of Major Sucking Insect Pests on Brinjal (Solanum melongena L.) and Correlation with Weather Parameter. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 14(3): 1446-1452.'),(5497,'136','Cultural Characterization of Indigenous Isolates of Trichoderma spp. Isolated from Chhattisgarh, India','Monika Naik, Rekha Balodi, R.K.S. Tiwari, V.K. Nirmalkar and S.K. Singh','247 Cultural Characterization of Indigenous Isolates of Trichoderma spp. Isolated from Chhattisgarh, India Monika Naik.pdf','',1,'The study was conducted to culturally characterize 32 native isolates of Trichoderma spp. from Chhattisgarh, India. Various experiments were conducted for the characterization of Trichoderma isolates. Trichoderma isolates’ colony colour ranged from white, yellowish-green to green and dark green upon sporulation. 1-2 concentric rings were observed in many isolates. A coconut-like odour was detected in isolates IGKV (T2, T20, T24, T28). A white colour colony and yellow pigmentation were seen in isolate IGKV T18 in the PDA medium. A dark green sporulation centre was observed in several isolates IGKV (T5, T11, T13, T19, T17, T21, T24, T27, T28, T29, T30). Among the three media (Viz. PDA, OMA & MEAB) tested for obtaining optimum growth and sporulation, maximum radial growth of 87.10 mm with a growth rate of 29.03 mm/day was observed on PDA by most of the isolates. It was observed that isolates showed variation in colony colour and morphology on different media. Growth and sporulation were observed at different temperatures and pH and it was observed that the most suitable temperature is 25±2°C and pH is 7 for maintaining Trichoderma cultures on PDA medium.','Cultural characterisation, Trichoderma spp., native isolates, sporulation, radial growth','From the study, it can be concluded that \r\n(i) Colony characteristics are overlapping among the isolates limiting their application in identification of Trichoderma spp., however polyphasic approach combining data sets can be done. \r\n(ii) PDA is the suitable media for culturing Trichoderma spp.\r\n(iii) The Trichoderma isolates under study showed temperature and pH preference.\r\n(iv) 25±2°C is the optimum temperature for most of the isolates.\r\n(v) The optimum pH level is 7 for most of the isolates.\r\n','INTRODUCTION\r\nFood and nutritional security of the growing population amid raised concerns for a safe environment and injudicious use of chemical pesticides is a great challenge for plant protection scientists. The issue has resulted in the need to develop and validate alternative disease management strategies for reducing crop losses due to biotic stresses. Biological control of plant pathogens is one such strategy and involves the use of effective biocontrol agents like Trichoderma spp., Pseudomonas fluorescens, etc. \r\nThe genus Trichoderma is a fungal biocontrol agent, with potential for management of soil-borne pathogens like Rhizoctonia solani, Fusarium spp., Aspergillus niger etc. The fungus is cosmopolitan in soils and on decaying wood and organic matter. Species of Trichoderma are frequently dominant components of the soil microflora in widely varying habitats. This may be attributable to the diverse metabolic capability of Trichoderma species and their aggressive competitive nature. For achieving effective biocontrol activity isolation and characterization of Trichoderma spp. from an agro-ecology is required. Cultural characters can be distinctive and may be characteristic of a species; these characters may be used for differentiating between isolates obtained from same agro-ecology. Similarly, in vitro growth rates in culture can be useful in distinguishing isolates with higher competitive ability due to vigorous growth. Thus, these descriptive characteristics may be instrumental in identification of the isolates with higher biocontrol and plant growth promotion activity. Furthermore, the native/ local isolate of the Trichoderma spp. may have higher ecological adaptability and exhibit higher biocontrol potential. Therefore, the present study was conducted to isolate and characterize native Trichoderma spp. from Chhattisgarh, India from the rhizospheres of diverse crops and their cultural characteristics were enumerated.\r\nMATERIAL AND METHODS\r\nCollection of soil samples and isolation of Trichoderma spp. Soil samples were collected from the rhizospheres of various crops (Table 1) from different locations in Chhattisgarh state of India for isolation of the Trichoderma spp. The soil samples were brought to the State Biocontrol Laboratory, Indira Gandhi Krishi Vishwavidyalaya, Barrister Thakur Chhedilal College of Agriculture and Research Station, Chorbhatti, Bilaspur, Chhattisgarh and stored at 4°C till further processing. Trichoderma spp. was isolated using soil dilution technique (Ben-David et al., 2014) using serial dilution of the soil sample. 100 µl of fivefold dilution was poured aseptically on the Trichoderma Selective Medium (TSM), Himedia, India in three replications and incubated at 27±2°C for 72 hours in BOD incubator, Sanco, India. The colonies were observed after 72 hours and morphologically distinct colonies were purified on Potato Dextrose Agar (PDA), SRL, India and incubated at 27±2°C. The purified colonies were transferred aseptically to PDA slants and preserved at 4°C for further studies. Further studies were conducted at Microbial Biocontrol Laboratory, ICAR-National Research Centre for Integrated Pest Management, New Delhi.\r\nPhenotypic Characterization. The isolates (Table 1) were revived from the slants by transferring aseptically to PDA in Petri plates followed by incubation at 27±2°C. The cultural characteristics of all the isolates under investigation were observed on 20 ml of sterilized Potato Dextrose Agar (PDA) poured aseptically in sterilized 90 mm glass Petri plates. A mycelial disc of approximately 4 mm diameter was transferred aseptically at the centre of each Petri plate in three replicates and incubated at 27±2°C for 5 days in a BOD incubator (SANCO, India). The colony characteristics observed were: - a) Colour of the fungus b) Growth of the fungus; Growth patterns; Appearance: - Ringed/sectoral/uniform/smooth/rough. The cultural characteristics were photographed. Diffusible pigments and characteristic odour were also observed and recorded (Gams and Bissett 1998).\r\nEffect of growth media on Trichoderma isolates. The following media were evaluated for maximum growth of Trichoderma spp. under in vitro conditions: Potato Dextrose Agar (PDA), Malt Extract Agar Base (MEAB), and Oatmeal Agar (OMA). Radial growth in ‘mm’ & growth rate (mm/day) was measured after 72 hrs. followed by 120 hrs. of inoculation (Hoyos-Carvajal and Bissett 2011).\r\nDetermination of optimum temperature for in vitro growth and sporulation. Isolates were inoculated in three replicates on PDA medium and incubated at 15°C, 25°C, and 37°C (Leo et al., 2011). Radial growth, growth rate (mm/day), initiation of sporulation, and sporulation rate after 5 days of inoculation were observed for cultures incubated at 25°C and 37°C, and after 7 days for cultures incubated at 15°C. The sporulation rate was calculated using the Neubauer counting chamber of the Haemocytometer (ROHEM, India). After five days in the case of 25°C and 37°C, and after 7 days in the case of 15°C, the spores were harvested from the plates and diluted following the serial dilution technique. The 50 µl spore suspension was transferred between the cover slip and chamber, and the number of spores in the central square was counted using a compound light microscope (Nikon 80i) at 40X. The number of spores was calculated using the formula (Nirmalkar et al., 2020):\r\n\r\n(Area of each square = 1mm, Depth = 0.1mm, Volume = 0.1mm3 = 0.1µl occupied by each of the squares. So, 1ml (1000 µl) will have:\r\n \r\nDetermination of optimum pH for in vitro growth and sporulation. Isolates were assessed for growth on PDA media in three replicates at pH levels 5, 7 & 9. The lower pH was adjusted using 10N HCl acid while the higher pH was maintained by 1N NaOH. Radial growth in ‘mm’, growth rate (mm/day), initiation of sporulation, and sporulation rate (no. of spore/ml) was measured after 72 hours of inoculation (Omar et al., 2012). The number of spores/ml was calculated using the Neubauer counting chamber of the Haemocytometer (ROHEM, India) as explained earlier after five days of inoculation.\r\nRESULT AND DISCUSSION\r\nThe cultural characteristics of all the isolates under study were examined on PDA and are presented in Table 1 & Fig. 1. Trichoderma isolates’ colony colour ranged from white, yellowish green to green, dark green upon sporulation. 1-2 concentric rings were observed in many isolates. A coconut-like odour was detected in isolates IGKV (T2, T20, T24, T28). A white colour colony and yellow pigmentation were seen in isolate IGKV T18 in the PDA medium. A dark green sporulation centre was observed in several isolates IGKV (T5, T11, T13, T19, T17, T21, T24, T27, T28, T29, T30).\r\nEffect of growth media on Trichoderma isolates. Growth and sporulation of Trichoderma spp. were studied on three synthetic media PDA, MEAB and OMA after 72 hrs. of inoculation at 27±2° in BOD incubator (Sanco, India) (Table 2, Fig. 2). On MEAB, the maximum radial growth observed was 90 mm in the four isolates IGKV -T4, T5, T6 & T29 with a growth rate of 30.00 mm/day followed by 87.5 mm in IGKV -T2, T11-24, & T31 with a growth rate of 29.17 mm/day. The least radial growth (80 mm) and growth rate (26.67 mm/day) were observed were the isolates IGKV T7 and IGKV T8. On OMA, the maximum radial growth observed was 80 mm in the isolates: IGKV -T11-32; with a growth rate of 26.67 mm/day followed by 75 mm by IGKV -T2 & T3 (growth rate 25.00 of mm/day). The least radial growth observed on OMA was by the isolate IGKV T6 (65mm, growth rate 21.67 mm/day) preceded by IGKV T1 (67.5, growth rate 22.50 mm/day). On PDA, the maximum radial growth observed was 90 mm by all isolates, except IGKV T3, T4, T5, T6, T7, T8, T9 & T10. Least radial growth observed was 67.5 mm, growth rate of 22.50 mm/day in isolate IGKV T4, preceded by IGKV T3 (radial growth 70 mm, growth rate 23.33 mm/day), IGKV T5, T8, T9, T10 (radial growth 80 mm, growth rate 26.67 mm/day) and IGKV T6, T7 (radial growth 85 mm, growth rate 28.83 mm/day).\r\nAmongst the different media under study, PDA supported maximum radial growth with a mean radial growth of 87.10 mm and growth rate of 29.03 mm/day followed by MEAB (86.25 mm, 28.74 mm/day) & OMA (76.73 mm, 25.57 mm/day) (Table 5). The isolates of Trichoderma were slow growing on OMA whereas, on MEAB, the sporulation was very fast as compared to OMA and PDA. \r\nPreviously, various authors have studied the cultural and morphological characteristics of Trichoderma spp. on different media. Malt extract agar is reported to be appropriate for conidia production and the observation of conidiophore branching, or potato dextrose agar, which is reported useful for observing pigment production (Hoyos-Carvayal and Bissett 2011). T. harzianum formed 1-2 concentric rings with green conidial production on PDA while white cottony mycelium with green conidiation was produced on Malt Extract Agar (MEA) (Shah et al., 2012). The authors also reported that density of conidia production is higher at the centre compared to the margins of the colony. On PDA T. viride produced granular colonies with green conidia distributed throughout. An irregular yellow zone without conidia was present around the inoculum in T. harzianum, some white pustules were also found growing on the green mat of conidia. T. pseudokoningii formed white mycelia with no conidial formation on PDA as well as MEA. The growth of T. viride was faster on MEA than the other two species, showing complete growth on 3rd day. Shah et al. (2012), uniformly flat and velvety colonies, with aerial mycelium consisting of short hyphae in one lawn over the colony, were observed on the MEAB medium (Carvalho et al., 2018). Colony showed dull green tufts or pustules, colony reverse was discoloured was identified as Trichoderma aureovirid; colony showed dark green producing tufts or pustules fringed by sterile white mycelium, colony reverse showed dull yellowish was identified as Trichoderma harzianum; colony showed scattered in minute tufts, pale yellowish-green in colour, colony reverse was pale yellowish was identified as Trichoderma reeseii; colony showed dull green to bluish green sporulation, colony reverses colourless to pale yellow were identified as Trichoderma koningii; colony showed dark green to dark bluish green sporulation, colony reverse was amber or uncoloured were identified as Trichoderma viride (Shekhar et al., 2017).\r\nEffect of temperature on radial growth and growth rate. Different isolates were inoculated on PDA media and incubated at 15±2°C, 25±2°C, and 37±2°C, observations on RG, GR, initiation of sporulation, sporulation rate were recorded (Table 3, Fig. 3). At 25°C, isolate IGKV T22 exhibited a maximum RG of 90 mm with a GR of 30.00 mm/day followed by IGKV T3 (RG 88 mm, GR 29.33 mm/day) and IGKV-T1, T4, T6, T11, T18, T27 & T31 (RG85 mm, GR 28.33 mm/day). The least growth was observed in the isolates IGKV-T5, T12, T13, T14, T15, T16, T17, T19, T20, T21, T23, T24, T25, T26, T28, T29, T30 & T32 as 80 mm with a GR of 26.67 mm/day. At 37°C, the maximum RG of 80 mm was shown by the isolates IGKV -T24, T27, and T29 with a GR of 26.67 mm/day; while, least RG was recorded as 20 mm in the isolates IGKV -T3, T4, T7, T18, T23 with a GR of 6.67 mm/day. At 15°C, IGKV- T2, T5 & T8 showed a maximum RG of 50 mm with a GR of 16.67 mm/day. The least RG was observed in IGKV -T19, T21, T23, T24, T29 & T30 as 20 mm with a GR of 6.67 mm/day. Interestingly the least RG at 25°C was the same as the maximum RG at 37°C. Amongst the different temperatures, 25±2°C was found to be optimum for in vitro growth of the fungus with a mean value of 82.03 mm followed by 37±2°C (44.68 mm) & 15±2°C (36.75 mm) (Table 5). IGKV T24 & T29 showed similar growth at 25±2°C and 37±2°C (RG 80 mm and GR 26.67 mm/day). No isolates exhibited similar growth rates across the temperature suggesting variation in biocontrol potential of the BCA when exposed to different environmental conditions. At 25±2°C and 37±2°C sporulation started after 72 hours (03 days) of incubation, however, at 15±2°C sporulation was delayed and was observed after 168 hours (Fig. 3).\r\nMishra (2016) reported Trichoderma strain number T1, T4, T7, and T8 was not affected at different temperature i.e., 20°C, 25°C, 30°C, and 35°C whereas in Trichoderma strain number T2, T5, T18, T28 less growth was recorded at 20°C and 35°C, suggesting variation in the temperature optima among strains of Trichoderma isolated from same agroecology. Tolerance to range of temperature is reported in T. viride and T. harzianum (20°C to 40°C) & T. asperellum and T. hamatum (25 °C -35°C) is reported (Ali et al., 2015). However, the author reported slower growth at 15°C. Temperature significantly affected the radial growth and sporulation of Trichoderma spp. T. viride and T. harzianum showed a high range of temperature tolerance. It grew and sporulated well between temperatures 20 to 40°C. T. asperellum and T. hamatum grew and sporulated well between temperatures (25-35°C). But at low temperature (15°C), the growth was slow and all the Trichoderma spp. failed to sporulate even after 7 days of incubation. A similar trend was also observed at high temperatures for all four spp. of Trichoderma (Zehra et al., 2017). Three morphologically similar species, T. harzianum, T. aggressivum, and T. atroviride, can be distinguished by growing them at 35°C. After 96 h, T. harzianum grows well and sporulates at 35°C, but the remaining two, T. aggressivum and T. atroviride, can have a colony radius of more than 5 mm (Gorai et al., 2020). Bastos (2001) studied the effect of temperature (10, 15, 20, 25, 30 & 35 °C), pH (3.5-9.5), and liquid medium composition on the growth and sporulation of T. stromatium and observed that a temperature range of 20 and 30°C was optimum for growth and sporulation. No growth occurred at 10 and 35°C.\r\nEffect of pH. Isolates were assessed for growth on amended PDA media in three replicates at pH 5, 7 & 9. RG in ‘mm’, GR (mm/day), initiation of sporulation, and sporulation rate (no. of spore/ml) were measured after 72 hours of inoculation at 27±2° in BOD incubator, (Table 4, Figure 4). At pH 5, IGKV T3 recorded the max RG of 90.00 mm with a GR of 30.00 mm/day followed by IGKV T6 (RG 86.00 mm, GR 28.67 mm/day). The least RG was noted in isolate IGKV 26 as 50.00 mm with a GR of 16.67 mm/day. The isolates produced greenish cottony colony at pH 5. \r\n \r\nAt pH 9, a maximum RG of 90.00 mm was observed in isolates IGKV -T6, T8, T12, T14, T16, and T18 with a GR of 30.00±00 mm/day whereas the least RG of 60.00±00 mm was recorded in isolate IGKV T7. At pH 7, a maximum RG of 90.00 mm with a GR of 30.00 mm/day was shown by isolate- IGKV T22 followed by IGKV T3 (RG 88.00 mm GR 29.33). The minimum RG of 80.00 mm with a GR of 26.67 mm/day was observed in 18 isolates IGKV-T5, T12, T13, T14, T15, T16, T17, T19, T20, T21, T23, T24, T25, T26, T28, T29, T30 & T32. Amongst the different pH levels, pH 7 was found optimum with a mean value of 82.03 mm followed by pH 9 (80.31 mm) & pH 5 (70.93 mm) (Table 5). Higher growth of IGKV T3 and IGKV T6 at different pH levels indicates that these isolates may be useful in highly acidic or alkaline crop fields.Optimum growth and sporulation of four species of Trichoderma were recorded between pH 4.1 to 8.6. Growth and sporulation of all the isolates decreased significantly with either decrease or increase in the pH below 4.6 or above 7.6. At pH 4.6, the growth was still good but sporulation was poor. At pH 8.6, the growth completely ceased (Zehra et al., 2017). Lejeune et al. (1995) using glucose-limited continuous culture showed that between pH 4 and 5 the specific growth rate, the maximum tip extension rate, and the branching frequency were highest, whereas the average hyphal diameter was smallest (2.1 µm vs. 2.5–2.7). Their data are in contrast to similar studies by Brown and Halsted (1988), who reported that the maximal specific growth rate of T. reesei under glucose limitation increased with increasing H+ concentration, whereas the biomass yield Y remained constant at 0.4.','Monika Naik, Rekha Balodi, R.K.S. Tiwari, V.K. Nirmalkar and S.K. Singh (2022). Cultural Characterization of Indigenous Isolates of Trichoderma spp. Isolated from Chhattisgarh, India. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 14(3): 1453-1460.'),(5498,'136','Characterization of upland Cotton Genotypes as per PPV&FR Guidelines via Important Morphological Traits','Himanshi Saraswat, Sonika, Omender Sangwan and Ajay Verma','248 Characterization of upland Cotton Genotypes as per PPV&FR Guidelines via Important Morphological Traits Ajay Verma.pdf','',1,'In the present investigation, characterization of 50 elite lines of cotton was carried out during kharif 2021 at CCSHAU, Kaul for better documentation and utilization in breeding programmes. Significant differences were observed among cotton genotypes for morphological traits. Vales of treatments Mean sum of squares were large as compared to error mean sum of squares for all the traits. Values of critical differences varied from 0.003 to 14.55 for Tannin and seed cotton per plants. Plant height of genotypes expressed variation from 123 to 225 while growth habit showed 46.4 to 76 values. Maximum divergence observed for Cotton seed per plant as values deviated from 65.4 to 234.4 whereas seed weight per boll registered change from 3.2 to 4.9. Values of seed index exhibited change from 44 to 8.9 and ginning (%) ranged from 19.6 to 43.3 and number of bolls per plant maintained deviation from 15.6 to 55.3 while monopods per plant expressed variation from 1.2 to 3.6 only among the genotypes. Marginal variation from 3.0 to 5.0 exhibited by number of locules per boll along with less changes in seeds per locule as 5.0 to 7.6 only. Days to first flower expressed changes from 51.6 to 66.6 while lint index deviated from 1.6 to 6.4 in this set of cotton genotypes. Cotton seed yield and Weight of seed cotton/boll expressed high Heritability with high genetic advance as % mean for additive gene action. Biplot analysis observed 40.3% variation accounted by first two components with 22.5 %, 17.8% contributions. Cotton seed yield, Number of bolls per plant, Lint index, Seed index, Number of monopods contributed more in first Principal component whereas Ginning, Locules per boll, Lint index, Number of monopods, Plant height contributed more to second one.','Upland cotton, PCA, Biplot analysis, Multivariate Hierarchical clustering','Evaluation of upland cotton genotypes expressed ample variability coupled with high heritability indicated, phenotypic selection would be very effective in improvement of morphological traits. High genetic advance along with high heritability expressed by Cotton Seed yield per plant, Number of bolls per plant, Seed index, Lint index ensured the better response to selection. Biplot analysis observed 40.3% variation accounted by first two components with 22.5 %, 17.8% contributions. Cotton seed yield, Number of bolls per plant, Lint index, Seed index, Number of monopods contributed more in first Principal component whereas Ginning, Locules per boll, Lint index, Number of monopods, Plant height contributed more to second one.','INTRODUCTION\r\nCotton (White Gold) has been established as the most significant cash crop and the backbone of the global textile industry (Zafar et al., 2022). Cotton crop has boosted Indian economy by providing raw material for manufacturing sector, and generating employment directly or indirectly for 60 million people (Saritha and Patil 2020). Cotton seed yield depends on contributing traits and better understanding aids to researchers to minimize the yield penalty factors. The total variability had been partitioned by Analysis of variance (ANOVA) into heritable and non-heritable components with the help of Genotypic Coefficient of Variation (GCV) and Phenotypic Coefficient of Variation (PCV) (Shaheen et al., 2021). More influence of the environmental factors on traits judged by large magnitude of PCV as compared to GCV values. Nature of gene action involved can be determined with the help of heritability and genetic advance (Bhatti et al., 2020). Heritability is a good indicator of the transmission of characters from parents to their offspring. Presence of genetic variability with high heritability indicates phenotypic selection which is very effective in improvement of traits (Kakar et al., 2021). High genetic advance along with high heritability provides better response to selection rather than individual high heritability effects (Balakrishnan et al., 2020). High genetic advance coupled with high heritability indicates the presence of additive gene action, which is a prerequisite for selection to proceed (Fatima et al., 2021). Genetic diversity for morphological traits has been estimated using principal component analysis, which lead to identification of phenotypic variability in cotton (Jarwar et al., 2018; Karena et al., 2021; Iqbal et al., 2022). In present study genotype-by-traits (GT) biplot analysis has been exploited to study the nature of association among the traits, evaluation of genotypes based on multiple traits. \r\nMATERIALS AND METHODS\r\nThe present investigation was carried out during kharif 2021 at the Farm Research Area of Cotton Section, Department of Genetics & Plant Breeding, CCS Haryana Agricultural University Hisar. The experimental material for the present research work consists of 50 genotypes of upland cotton (Gossypium hirsutum L.). The research centre is located in the semi-arid sub-tropical area at 290-100N latitude and 750 -460 E longitude with an elevation of 215.52 m above mean sea level. There was one row of each genotype with row length of 6.0 m, row to row distance of 67.5 cm and, plant to plant distance of 30 cm. All the necessary recommended package of practices was followed to raise a good crop stand. Observations recorded on Plant height(cm), Plant growth habit, Seed cotton yield/plant (g), Weight of seed cotton/boll (g), Ginning (%), Seed index(g), Number of bolls per plant, Number of locules/boll, Number of seeds/locule, Lint index(g), Days to first flower, Number of monopods/plants subjected to further statistical analysis.\r\nRESULTS AND DISCUSSION\r\nA. Descriptive analysis\r\nThe recorded data on studied traits were subjected to analysis of variance (ANOVA) technique. Significant differences were observed among genotypes for studied morphological traits as evident from ANOVA (Kumar et al., 2019). The descriptive statistics observed sufficient magnitude of variability for the studied traits among the cotton genotypes. Values of treatments Mean sum of squares were large as compared to error mean sum of squares for all the traits (Pinki et al., 2018). Values of critical differences varied up to 14.55 for cotton seed per plants. Plant height of genotypes expressed variation from 123 to 225 while growth habit showed 46.4 to 76 values. Maximum divergence observed for Cotton seed per plant as values deviated from 65.4 to 234.4 whereas seed weight per boll registered change from 3.2 to 4.9. Values of seed index exhibited change from 44 to 8.9 and ginning (%) ranged from 19.6 to 43.3 and number of bolls per plant maintained deviation from 15.6 to 55.3 while monopods per plant expressed variation from 1.2 to 3.6 only among the genotypes. Marginal variation from 3.0 to 5.0 exhibited by number of locules per boll along with less changes in seeds per locule as 5.0 to 7.6 only. Days to first flower expressed changes from 51.6 to 66.6 while lint index deviated from 1.6 to 6.4 in this set of cotton genotypes. \r\nB. Heritability and Genetic advance\r\nPlant height(cm). The overall mean of the character found was 183.56 with a range of variation from lowest by C 2-3 genotype (123.33 cm) to highest by PIL 8-5 genotype (225.67). The magnitude of GCV (12.49%) and PCV (13.01%) showed by character was moderate in nature. Smaller difference observed between GCV and PCV values indicating the little influence of environment on the inheritance of the trait. Heritability (92.18%) with genetic advance % mean (24.72%) was very high and high respectively indicating the presence of additive gene action, which responds to selection for the inheritance of the trait.\r\nPlant growth habit. The overall mean of the character found was 61.14 with a range of variation from lowest by N 46 genotype (52 cm) and highest by S 344 genotype (76 cm). The GCV (9.68%) and PCV (10.23%) values showed by the character was low and moderate respectively. Heritability (89.61%) with genetic advance % mean (18.89) was very high and moderate respectively showing the preponderance of additive gene action, which is pre-requisite for selection to proceed further (Dahiphale et al., 2018).\r\nSeed cotton yield/plant (g). The overall mean of the character found was 131.65 with a range of variation from lowest by Dunn genotype (65.42 g) and highest by AR 37 genotype (234.35 g). The GCV (29.12%) and PCV (29.91%) values showed by the character was high and comparable, indicating little influence of environment on the trait. Heritability (94.79%) with genetic advance as % mean (58.40%) was very high and high respectively, indicating that high heritability is due to additive gene action and selection will be rewarding for the improvement of trait (Gnanasekaran et al., 2018). \r\nWeight of seed cotton/boll (g). The overall mean of the character found was 3.96 with a range of variation from lowest by GTSV 337 genotype (3.22g) and highest by Combed Seed genotype (4.90g). The GCV (11.02%) and PCV (11.29%) values showed by the character was moderate in nature. Heritability (95.21%) with the genetic advance % mean (22.15%) was very high and high respectively, indicating the presence of additive gene action, which responds to selection (Hamidi et al., 2018). \r\nGinning (%). Ginning can be defined as the process of separation of fibre from seed cotton. Ginning out turn can be defined as the percentage of lint obtained from seed cotton. The overall mean of the character found was 39.75 with a range of variation from lowest by Tx ORSC78 genotype (19.63) and highest by genotype EL505 (42.73). The GCV (8.59%) and PCV (10.14%) values showed by the character was low in nature, indicating low magnitude of genetic variability were present among the genotypes. The magnitude of PCV was higher than GCV indicating the influence of environment over the trait. Heritability (71.79%) with the genetic advance as % of mean (15.00) was high and moderate respectively, which indicates that selection can be used for the improvement of the trait. \r\nSeed index (g). Seed index is the weight of 100 cotton seed, which was collected from five average sized bolls. It was classified as very small, small, medium, bold and very bold. Most of the genotype had small seed index while nine genotype had medium seed index. The overall mean of the character found was 6.46 with a range of variation from lowest by Dunn 119 genotype (4.40) and highest by GTSV 337-1 genotype (8.90). The GCV (15.03%) and PCV (15.97%) values showed by the character was moderate and low in nature. Heritability (96.81%) with the genetic advance % mean (30.49%) was very high and high respectively, indicating the presence of additive gene action, which is a prerequisite for selection. \r\nNumber of bolls per plant. Boll shape (longitudinal section) were classified as round, ovate or elliptic. The overall mean of the character found was 33.12 with a range of variation from lowest by PIL 8-5 genotype (16.33) and highest by genotype EL 505 (55.33). The GCV (27.16%) and PCV (28.05%) values showed by the character was high and moderate in nature. Heritability (93.75%) with genetic advance % mean (54.18) was very high and high respectively, indicating that high heritability is due to additive gene action and selection will be rewarding for the improvement of the trait (Aarthi et al., 2018). \r\nNumber of locules/boll. The overall mean of the character found was 3.91 with a range of variation from lowest (3.0) and highest (5.0) value. The GCV (12.88%) and PCV (16.96%) values showed by the character was moderate and low in nature indicating little amount of genetic variability were present among the genotypes, also high magnitude of PCV than GCV indicates the influence of environment over the trait. Heritability (57.59%) and genetic advance % mean of (20.16%) of the character was moderate in nature respectively. This trait showed the lowest value of heritability among all the morphological traits under study. \r\nNumber of seeds/locule. Seed cotton yield per plant or single plant yield (g) was the yield obtained 77 from single plant of cotton. Seed cotton yield/plant being the most important parameter which can be classified into low, medium and high. The overall mean of the character found was 6.38 with a range of variation from lowest (5.0) to highest (7.67) value. The GCV (9.01%) and PCV (11.20%) values showed by the character was low in magnitude, indicating little amount of genetic variability was present among the genotypes for this trait. Heritability (64.65%) with genetic advance % mean (14.92%) was high and moderate in nature respectively (Shaheen et al., 2021). \r\nLint index (g). Lint index can be defined as the ratio of lint weight to the seed cotton. Lint index can be classified as low medium and high and all the genotype under study showed sufficient amount of variation in this character. The overall mean of the character found was 4.3 with a range of variation from lowest by PIL 8-5 genotype (1.60) to highest by genotype EL 505 (6.32). The GCV (19.53%) and PCV (21.20%) values showed by the character were moderate in nature, indicating sufficient magnitude of genetic variability was present among the genotypes for the trait. Heritability (84.84%) with genetic advance % mean (37.06%) was very high and high respectively, indicating the preponderance of additive gene action (Saritha and Patil 2020). \r\nC. Principle components analysis (PCA) \r\nResults of the principal component analysis (PC) indicated that the first two components were important in explaining the 40.3% variation among the morphological traits of 50 genotypes evaluated under field trials and respective contributions were 22.5 %, 17.8% (Table 4). It illustrated the variations in Cotton seed yield, Number of bolls per plant, Lint index, Seed index, Number of monopods contributed more in first Principal component. Traits including Ginning, Locules per boll, Lint index, Number of monopods, Plant height contributed more to second PC. The traits are positively correlated if the angle among their vectors is less than 90o and negatively correlated if angle among trait vectors are more than 90o. While trait vectors that are approximately at right angle behave independently (Zafar et al., 2022). Biplot analysis revealed significant positive associations among growth habit, Number of monopods, number of cotton seeds per plant and cotton seed yield. Seeds per locule expressed positive association with Locules per boll of the evaluated genotypes. Similar kind of association was observed among plant height, ginning, lint index, seed index, weight of cotton seed (Shaheen et al., 2021). The correlation between number of monopods with seeds per locule and locules per boll was negative (Fig. 4). As a graphical display of a multivariate analyses, the GT-biplot represents a tool that combine several advantages from analyses that encompass relations between traits (Fig. 5), demonstrating the usefulness of this analysis. Number of monopods placed together with number of bolls per plant, growth habit, cotton seed yield. Next quadrant observed grouping of weight of cotton seed with seed index, days to first flower, plant height whereas nearby placed lint index and ginning in other group. Lastly seeds per locule showed affinity with locules per boll in last group. \r\nD. Multivariate Hierarchical Cluster analysis \r\nMultivariate statistical methods are appropriate tools for the analysis of the complex structure. Multivariate techniques have been used to estimate the genetic divergence between accessions, like biometric models estimated by the Euclidean Distance and hierarchical grouping methods (Kakar et al., 2021). Multivariate clustering of genotypes based on studied traits had been carried out as per guidelines of popular Ward’s method. Cluster analysis is a method that aims to clarify and classify a sample of objects (or subject) based on a set of deliberately chosen variables into a number of different groups keeping alike objects in the similar group. The cluster analysis has no mechanism for distinguishing irrelevant and relevant variables. Using cluster analysis, 50 cultivars were divided into six different clusters based on important morphological traits with respective membership of 7, 6, 9, 13, 14, 1 genotypes (Fig. 6). Growth habit expressed as point of dissection of studied traits as plant height, seeds per locule, Ginning, Locules per boll, days to first flower in one while other comprises of weight of cotton seed, cotton seed yield, number of bolls per plant, number of monopods, seed index with lint index. \r\n','Himanshi Saraswat, Sonika, Omender Sangwan and Ajay Verma (2022). Characterization of upland Cotton Genotypes as per PPV&FR Guidelines via Important Morphological Traits. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 14(3): 1461-1468.'),(5499,'136','Effect of Rice Crop Residue Management Techniques and Nitrogen Levels on Growth and Yield of Succeeding Sorghum','Pydi Mohini Kumari, S. Prathibhasree, K. Anny Mrudhula and P. Mohana Rao','249 Effect of Rice Crop Residue Management Techniques and Nitrogen Levels on Growth and Yield of Succeeding Sorghum Pydi Mohini Kumari.pdf','',1,'The present investigation was carried out during rabi season of 2021-22 on a sandy clay loam soil at the Agricultural College Farm, Bapatla to study the effect of various rice crop residue management techniques and nitrogen levels on growth and yield of sorghum. The experiment was laid out in split-plot design with four rice crop residue management techniques (M1: No residue, M2: Burning of residue, M3: Incorporation of residue with rotovator without application of ANGRAU decomposer and M4: Incorporation of residue with rotovator after application of ANGRAU decomposer as main plot treatments and four nitrogen levels (Control, 40 kg ha−1, 80 kg ha−1 and 120 kg ha−1) as sub plot treatments. Mean values for rice crop residue management techniques revealed that plant height, dry matter accumulation, test weight, grain yield were maximum with incorporation of residue with rotovator after application of ANGRAU decomposer (M4). However, test weight showed non-significant results. Mean values for nitrogen levels revealed that highest plant height, dry matter accumulation, test weight, grain yield of sorghum were recorded with 120 kg ha−1 (S4). Thus, Incorporation of residue with rotovator after application of ANGRAU decomposer (M4) and application of 120 kg ha−1 (S4) is an optimum and sustainable approach to enhance the growth and yield of succeeding sorghum.','Rice crop residue, Nitrogen levels, Plant height, Test weight and succeeding sorghum','Based on the above results and discussion, it can be concluded that incorporation of residue with rotovator after application of ANGRAU decomposer (M4) and application of 120 kg N ha -1 (S4) were found to be the most effective and sustainable approach to enhance the growth and yield of succeeding sorghum. ','INTRODUCTION\r\nSorghum (Sorghum bicolor L.) is the fifth most important food crop of the world after wheat, maize, rice and barley. India is the second largest producer of sorghum in the world, it occupies an area of 5.13 m ha with a production of 4.37 mt and productivity of 852 kg /ha (Directorate of Economics and Statistics, 2021).\r\nContinuous cropping with inorganic fertilizer causes decline in soil organic matter and loss of inherent fertility (Muhammad et al., 2011). This has led to the renewed interest in use of organic manures as sources of soil organic matter (Yaduvanshi, 2003). Among the available organic sources, crop residues are the most important sources of nutrients to the crop in addition to improving soil health. In India, total 516.3 tonnes of crop residues are being generated every year of which rice crop residues comprises 122.6 tonnes (Devi et al., 2017). Crop residues are important natural resource for the stability of agricultural ecosystems.\r\nCereal crops (rice, wheat, maize, millets) contribute 70%, while rice crop alone contributes 34% to the crop residues. On an average, rice crop residues contain 0.7% N, 0.23% P and 1.75% K. Therefore, the amount of NPK contained in rice crop residues produced is about 22.13 × 106 and 26.26 × 106 t year-1 in Asia and world respectively. Recently, with the advent of mechanized harvesting, farmers have been burning in-situ large quantities of crop residues left in the field as which interfere with tillage and succeeding operations for the subsequent crop, causing loss of nutrients and soil organic matter. Burning of residues leads to loss of nutrients i.e. 80 per cent of N, 25 per cent of P, 21 per cent of K and up to 60 per cent of S (Mandal et al., 2004) and also caused emission of 18 per cent black carbon which is second largest contributor in global warming (Ramanathan and Carmichael 2008). \r\nThe possible management options for rice residue are surface retention, use of incorporation of straw, mulching and removal of rice straw. Incorporation of rice straw immediately before sowing of succeeding crop decreased the grain yield due to immobilization of nitrogen (Chivenge et al., 2020) because of wider C/N ratio of rice straw but it can be managed successfully if sufficient time is provided between residue incorporation and sowing of wheat crop .The rice straw comprises majority of the cellulose (36-37%) and hemicellulose (23-24%) encrusted by lignin (15-16%) along with a small quantity of protein, thereby making it high in the ratio of C: N and hence is resistant to the decomposition of microbes compared to the straws of wheat and barley (Sangwan and Deswal 2021). To alleviate such problems, lignocellulolytic microbes are utilized effectively to make the process economically viable and sustainably efficient. The microbial consortium showed efficient degradation of rice straw, which cellulose, hemicelluloses and lignin lost 71.7%, 65.6% and 12.5% of its weight, respectively, in 20 days at 15°C (Zheng et al., 2020).\r\nOf late, the area under rice fallow pulses is gradually declining due to severe attack of viral diseases (Mishra et al., 2013). However, in areas where the water resources are frugal there is a prospective situation for taking up sorghum as an alternative crop to pulse during rabi. Further, the application of nitrogen even in balanced form may not sustain fertility under continuous cropping. A need based crop residue and nitrogen management plan should be developed duly considering quantity of crop residues being produced, availability of infrastructure and equipment for management of crop residue. Thus, the present investigation was therefore undertaken to study the effect of various rice crop residue management techniques and nitrogen levels on growth and yield of succeeding sorghum.\r\nMATERIALS AND METHODS\r\nAn experiment was conducted with four rice crop residue management techniques M1: No residue, M2: Burning of residue, M3: Incorporation of residue with rotovator without application of ANGRAU decomposer and M4: Incorporation of residue with rotovator after application of ANGRAU decomposer as main plot treatments and four nitrogen levels (Control, 40 kg ha−1, 80 kg ha−1and 120 kg ha−1) as sub plot treatments which was replicated thrice. It was carried out on sandy clay loam soils of Agricultural College Farm, Bapatla during rabi, 2021-22 and the soil was neutral in reaction, non saline, low in Organic Carbon, low in available Nitrogen, medium in available Phosphorus and medium in available Potassium. During the crop growth period, the weekly mean maximum temperature ranged from 29.7 to 33.3°C with an average of 31.7°C. The weekly mean minimum temperature ranged from 20.0 to 21.2°C with an average of 19.8°C. A total rainfall of 60.3 mm was received during the crop growth period. The test variety used for sowing was Mahalaxmi hybrid and crop was sown at 45 cm and 15 cm inter and intra row distance, respectively and adopted all the standard package of practices. Application of nutrients was done as per the treatments in the form of urea, single super phosphate and muriate of potash respectively. Nitrogen was applied in two equal splits viz., at basal and knee high stage. Entire recommended dose of phosphorus 60 kg P2O5 ha-1 and 40 kg K2O ha-1 was applied at basal in the form of single super phosphate and muriate of potash, respectively at the time of sowing.\r\nAfter harvest of rice panicles, residues of the rice crop were retained. Rice residues were added as per treatment in the four main plots. In residue removal plots, the residues were completely removed after harvest of the crop. Twenty five days were allowed for decomposition of crop residues with the application of ANGRAU decomposer during the year of experimentation. The data on plant height, drymatter accumulation, test weight and grain yield were recorded as per standard procedures. Statistical analysis of all the data are carried out following the analysis of variance technique for split plot design as outlined by Panse and Sukhatame (1985).\r\nRESULTS AND DISCUSSION\r\nEffect of rice crop residue management techniques and nitrogen levels on plant height. The calculated mean data related to plant height of sorghum at harvest as affected by rice crop residue management techniques and nitrogen levels have been summarized and presented in Table 1. The interaction at harvest was found to be non-significant. \r\nHighest plant height values at harvest were recorded with Incorporation of residue with rotovator after application of ANGRAU decomposer (M4) and least plant height of sorghum was observed with no residue (M1). This might be due to residue incorporation along with microbial consortium fasten the decomposition process and released nutrients rapidly or reduced the losses of nutrients might have been utilized by the crop and produced comparable plant height under afore said treatments (Mukesh, 2019).\r\n With respect to fertility levels, at harvest highest plant height of sorghum was obtained with application of 120 kg N ha -1 (S4) and lowest plant height was observed with control (S1) . This might be due to due to cell elongation, cell enlargement and more chlorophyll synthesis,resulted in better plant growth. The increase in plant height in response to higher levels of nitrogen was in conformity with the previous findings of researchers like Kaushik and Shaktawat (2005); Verma et al. (2005); Yakadri and Murali (2009)\r\nEffect of rice crop residue management techniques and nitrogen levels on drymatter accumulation. Data pertaining to dry matter accumulation of sorghum at harvest as affected by rice crop residue management techniques and nitrogen levels are presented in Table 1. Interaction at harvest was found to be non-significant. A glance at the data indicates that highest drymatter accumulation was obtained with incorporation of residue with rotovator after application of ANGRAU decomposer (M4) and lowest drymatter accumulation was obtained with no residue (M1). This might be due to addition of microbial consortium 25 days before sowing for decomposition of residue also improved soil physical condition, enhanced availability of nutrients and growth parameters (height, tillers and leaves) and finally dry matter production and Organic matter added in soil in form of crop residue might have also released almost all the essential elements necessary for growth and development as reported by Mukesh (2019).\r\nAmong the nitrogen levels, at harvest highest dry matter accumulation was obtained with application of 120 kg N ha-1 (S4) and lowest dry matter accumulation was observed with control (S1). This might be due to adequate supply of nitrogen accelerated the growth of jowar. This inturn, put forth adequate photosynthetic surface and efficiency, in enhancing the carbohydrate metabolism, thus contributing to greater drymatter accumulation. Maintenance of balanced nutrition might have resulted in greater availability of nutrients from the soil. These results are in confirmity with the findings of Gutte and Karanjikar (2007).\r\nEffect of rice crop residue management techniques and nitrogen levels on test weight. Test weight did not differ significantly among the rice crop residue management techniques and N levels taken for study. However interaction effect showed non significant results.\r\nEffect of rice crop residue management techniques and nitrogen levels on grain yield. The data pertaining to grain yield of sorghum as affected by rice crop residue management techniques and nitrogen levels are presented in Table 1. However, Interaction was found to be non-significant. With respect to rice crop residue management techniques, highest grain yield was obtained with incorporation of residue with rotovator after application of ANGRAU decomposer (M4) and lowest grain yield was obtained with no residue (M1). This might be due to the application of microbial consortium increased residue decomposition and several rice physiological processes, which includes net photosynthetic rate, transpiration and internal CO2 concentration, enhance crop growth components including plant height, number of leaves, and number of tillers and finally grain and straw yields (Deshmukh et al., 1988; Mukesh, 2019; Pandey and Agarwal 1991).\r\nAmong nitrogen levels, highest grain yield was obtained with application of 120 kg N ha -1 (S4) and lowest grain yield was obtained with control (S1). This might be due to it might have promoted the growth of roots as well as functional activity resulting in higher extraction of nutrients from soil environment to aerial plant parts. The improvement in yield attributes with N consequently resulted in higher grain yield. The yield could be as a result of good drymatter production for grain filling as a result of greater number of leaves. These results are in complete agreement with the findings of Miko and Manga (2008); Lingaraju et al., (2010); Sareen and Sharma (2010).\r\n','Pydi Mohini Kumari, S. Prathibhasree, K. Anny Mrudhula and P. Mohana Rao (2022). Effect of Rice Crop Residue Management Techniques and Nitrogen Levels on Growth and Yield of Succeeding Sorghum. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 14(3): 1469-1472.');
INSERT INTO `pdf_upload` VALUES (5500,'136','Predatory Credentials of Neoseiulus longispinosus (Evans) (Acari: Phytoseiidae) on Two Spotted Spider Mite Tetranychus urticae Koch (Acari: Tetranychidae)','Nikita Negi, C. Chinnamade Gowda, N. Srinivasa and N. Sumithramma','250 Predatory Credentials of Neoseiulus longispinosus _Evans_ _Acari Phytoseiidae_ on Two Spotted Spider Mite Tetranychus urticae Nikita Negi.pdf','',1,'Two spotted spider mite, Tetranychus urticae (Acari: Tetranychidae) is a destructive polyphagous pest of many agricultural crops and effective control using biocontrol agents is still a challenge. Prey stage preference and feeding potential of active stages of the predatory mite, Neoseiulus longispinosus were studied under laboratory conditions of 23°±1-28±1° temperature and 70-80% RH using different stages of prey mite T. urticae. Prey stage preference was studied by providing all the prey stages together on a leaf bit. Larva of predatory mite, N. longispinosus was a non- feeding stage and did not consume any prey in its developmental time of 12.35 h. Protonymph showed greater preference for larval stage of T. urticae, while deutonymph showed equal preference for egg, larva and deutonymph. Adult predatory mite preferred more of eggs followed by larva, protonymph, deutonymph and adult. In feeding potential study, the active stages of predatory mite were offered with all the prey stages individually, where, protonymph of N. longispinosus consumed 1.70±0.30 eggs, 2.60±0.30 larvae, 2.10±0.17 nymphs (protonymph+deutonymph) and did not feed on the adult stage. Similarly, deutonymph of the predatory mite consumed 3.70±0.65 eggs, 4.20±0.41 larvae, 3.50±0.50 nymphs and 0.40±0.16 adults. Adult predatory mite consumed a total of 220.0± 6.93 eggs, 231.90±22.59 larvae, 130.40±3.83 nymphs and 54.60±5.26 prey adults in its lifetime.','Predatory mite, Feeding preference, Feeding potential, Neoseiulus longispinosus, Tetranychus urticae','Present study generated comprehensive information on feeding preference and feeding potential of life stages of indigenous predator Neoseiulus longispinosus on life stages of highly destructive pest of agricultural crops, Tetranychus urticae. All the developmental stages of N. longispinosus except larval stage when offered prey mite stages all together consumed all the stages of T. urticae with no distinct preference for feeding under laboratory conditions. The information generated in the present study will bethus helpful in planning the bio-control programme against T. urticae. ','INTRODUCTION\r\nIn the present context, because of environmental contamination by excessive use of pesticide, the risk for human and animal health, and phytotoxicity, it has become extremely necessary to use environment friendly measures such as biological control other than chemically-synthesized pesticide to combat mite pests. Phytoseiid mites are well known natural enemies of phytophagous mites on wide range of habitats. They have high reproductive potential, rapid rate of development, female-biased sex ratio equivalent to their prey. They respond numerically to increased prey density, and can easily be mass-reared (Hoy, 2011). Among phytoseiids, Neoseiulus longispinosus (Evans) is more often associated with the colony of phytophagous mites on many cultivated crops in Asian countries and the Indian subcontinent. It is widely distributed in India and proved to be an effective predator on tetranychid mites (Mallik, 1999). \r\nTwo spotted spider mite, Tetranychus urticae is one of the most destructive tetranychid mite pest of agricultural crops with more than 1000 reported host plants belonging to more than 250 plant families (Migeon et al., 2014). Many of these host plants represent major crops including vegetables and fruits, but also corn, soybean and cotton. Pest status of T. urticae on greenhouse vegetable, ornamental crops and horticultural crops are well documented (Tehri, 2014). Tetranychus urticae has the ability to increase its reproduction rate and increase its populations in a shorter time when exposed to sublethal pesticide levels (Hoy, 2011). \r\nSeveral studies have been conducted to test the prey stage preference of different phytoseiid predatory mites on different spider mite species: Neoseiulus longispinosus on T. urticae (Jayasinghe and Mallik, 2015),on T. neocaledonicus (Jyothis and Ramani, 2019), on Oligonychus coffeae (Rahman et al.,2011); Neoseiulus idaeus on T. urticae (Reichert et al., 2016); Phytoseius plumifer on T. urticae (Khodayari et al., 2016); Neoseiulus californicus on T. urticae (Rezaie et al., 2017); Amblyseius swirskii & N. californicus on T. urticae (Akyazi et al., 2019); Neoseiulus californicus on T. urticae (Kaur and Zalom 2019). The feeding potential of the phytoseiid predatory mite, N. longispinosus on T. urticae has also been studied by Jeyarani et al. (2012); Sanchit and Shukla (2016); Song et al. (2016); Rao et al. (2017). But there are differences in respect of the prey stages preferred and the number of prey stages consumed by a particular predatory mite species among different studies. This study aimed at investigating the feeding preference and feeding potential of N. longispinosus on two spotted spider mite, T. urticae.\r\nMATERIAL AND METHODS\r\nA. Stock culture of the predatory mite, Neoseiulus longispinosus\r\nStock culture of the predatory mite, N. longispinosus maintained on spider mite infested French bean plantsin the polycarbonate house of All India Network Project on Agricultural Acarology, University of Agricultural Sciences, GKVK Campus, Bengaluru, Karnataka was used in the present study. A small nucleus culture of the predatory mite from the polycarbonate house was further reared on T. urticae (prey mite) infested detached-French bean leaves placed on wet foam in polyethylene traysin the laboratory. The prey mites on French bean plants in the polycarbonate house were used for feeding by the predatory mites in the laboratory. The foam was kept moist, by watering daily to prevent the escape of the predatory mites and thus sufficient stock culture of the predatory mite was available throughout experimentation. \r\nB. Stock culture of the prey mite, Tetranychus urticae\r\nThe nucleus culture of T. urticae maintained in the All India Network Project on Agricultural Acarology laboratory was used in the present study. A small nucleus culture of T. urticae obtained from the projectwas reared on excised mulberry leaf bits placed on wet foam in polyethylenetrays in the laboratory. The mulberry leaf bits were removed and replaced with fresh bits every 5-6 days and the trays were watered daily to keep the foam wet enough to retain the succulency of the leaves. Sufficient stock culture of the prey mite was made available throughout the study for experimentation.\r\nC. Feeding preference of Neoseiulus longispinosus on different life stages of Tetranychus urticae\r\nThe preference of feeding by the predatory mite, N. longispinosus for different life stages of prey mite T. urticae was studied by offering known number of each life stage of the prey mite together, on the mulberry leaf arena. Different life stages of the prey mites were offered to individual larva, protonymph, deutonymph and the adult predatory mite. Fresh mulberry leaves were cut into bits of 2 cm2 each, were placed abaxial side up on wet foam placed in 12″X10″ polyethylene trays. 30 leaf bits served as 30 replications. To eachleaf bit, known number of each life stage of the prey mite i.e., egg, larva, protonymph, deutonymph and adults was released along with one neonate larva of the predatory mite. The number of different life stages of the prey mite consumed by the predatory mite in its larval, protonymphal, deutonymphal and the adult stages was recorded. As the feeding requirement of different life stages of the predatory mite vary, the number of prey stages offered to each feeding stage of the predatory mite was decided so that the number offered were always in excess than they would consume. In order to maintain the humidity and to prevent the escape of the prey and predatory mites, the foam was kept moist by watering daily. In case of the immature life stages of the predatory mite viz., larva, protonymph and the deutonymph, the number of preys consumed in the respective stages and for the adult predatory mites, the prey consumed in 24 h period was recorded. Dead remines of the prey mites fed by the predatory mites were removed and replaced with fresh stages from the stock culture, every 24 h, to ensure prey mite availability throughout the experimentation. When a single female predatory mite was released on a leaf bit, a high rate of escape of the predatory females from the experimental arena was observed and to overcome this, two adult female predatory mites were released per leaf bit and the mean prey consumed by each predatory mite was calculated. \r\nFrom the data obtained, percent consumption was calculated using the formula:\r\nNe/N0 × 100\r\nwhere, Ne = Number of prey stages consumed\r\n N0 = Number of prey stages offered\r\nD. Feeding potential of Neoseiulus longispinosus on Tetranychus urticae\r\nThe study was conducted to know the number of prey mites a predatory mite could consume in its life stages individually and in its entire life time starting from larva to the end of adult stage. The stages of the prey mite viz., eggs, larvae, nymphs (protonymph+deutonymph) and adults were offered separately to the predatory mite, right from its larval stage to adult stage and the number of prey stages consumed was recorded. Additionally, a treatment with all the four stages of the prey mite together was also included for comparison. For experimentation, the experimental arena with mulberry leaf bit was arranged as in the previous experiment. The experiment consisted of five treatments. In the first treatment, only the eggs of the prey mite were offered to the predatory mites, in the second treatment only the larval stages, in the third treatment only the nymphal stages (protonymph+deutonymph), in the fourth treatment only the adult stages were offered and in the fifth treatment all the four stages of the prey mite were offered together in equal proportion. Known number of prey stages, as detailed in different treatments were transferred to each leaf bit along with one neonate larva of the predatory mite and the predatory mite was allowed to feed on prey mites during its developmental period and adult hood till it died naturally. To the larval and protonymphal stages of the predatory mite, 6 prey eggs/ larvae/ nymphs/ adults were provided for the first four treatments and 2 individuals of each stage together for the fifth treatment. Likewise, to the deutonymphal stage of the predatory mite, 10 prey eggs/ larvae/ nymphs/ adults were provided for the first four treatments and 3 individuals of each stage together for the fifth treatment. To the adult predatory mite, 25 prey eggs/ larvae/ nymphs/ adults were provided in the first four treatments and 5 individuals of each stage together in the fifth treatment. The experiment consisted of 10 replications for each treatment. Observations were recorded on the number of each prey stages consumed by the predatory mite in its larval, protonymphal, deutonymphal and adult stage at 24 h interval still its natural death. At each observation, the remains of the dead prey mites were removed and replaced with the fresh ones to maintain their number and to ensure sufficient prey availability.\r\nData analysis. The Data obtained from prey preference and feeding potential study of the predatory mite were subjected to statistical analysis by SPSS software version 23.0. Minimum and maximum consumption, mean total consumption were calculated and prey preference was compared by using one-way ANOVA followed by Tukey’s HSD test (P<0.01). Data of the number of prey stages consumed by the predatory mite in a day (24 h) and total prey consumption till its death, when offered separately or together was subjected to one-way ANOVA followed by Tukey’s Honestly Significant Difference (HSD) test (P<0.01).\r\nRESULTS AND DISCUSSION\r\nA. Preference of life stages of predatory mite Neoseiulus longispinosus for life stages of prey mite Tetranychus urticae\r\nThe data on the number of T. urticae prey stages consumed by four different life stages of predatory mite, N. longispinosus are presented in Table 1 and depicted in Fig. 1. The larva was found to be a non-feeding stage and did not consume any prey mites during its mean life span of 15.7h. Hegde and Patil (1994), Ibrahim and Palacio (1994), Kadu (2007) and Rao et al. (2017) also observed the non-feeding behavior of the larval stage of the predatory mite N. longispinosus. This non-feeding behavior is not confined only to N. longispinosus, larvae of other phytoseiid mites Phytoseiulus longipes (Badii et al., 1999), Typhlodromus pyri (Croft & Croft, 1993) and Euseiusovalis (Liyaudheen et al., 2014) were also reported to be non-feeding. \r\nEach protonymph of N. longispinosus consumed 0.73±0.13 eggs, 1.83±0.11l arvae, 0.73±0.11 protonymphs and 0.20±0.07 deutonymphs of T. urticae in its mean life span of 23.28 h indicating its preference for the larval stage of the prey mite with a mean consumption of 61%, followed by egg & protonymphal stages (24% each) and the deutonymphal stage (6%). And interestingly the predatory protonymph did not feed on the adult prey mite. The deutonymph consumed 1.23±0.20 eggs, 1.43±0.16 larvae, 0.70±0.12 protonymphs, 0.96±0.13deutonymphs and 0.10±0.05 T. urticae adults of in its life span of 27.26 h, which indicated its preference forlarva, egg & the deutonymphal stages of the prey mite with the mean corresponding consumption rate of 28%, 24%&19%, the protonymph and adult prey mites were least preferred(14%&2%, respectively).The adult female consumed a mean of 4.00±0.24 prey eggs, 1.85±0.16 larvae, 1.45±0.21 protonymphs, 0.90±0.16 deutonymphs &0.10±0.00 adults in 24h time, indicating its most preference foregg stage of T. urticae (80%), followed by larvae (37%), protonymphs (29%) & deutonymphs (18%) and it showed least preference for the adult prey mite (2%). \r\nThe preference of adult N. longispinosus for theegg and larval stages of T. urticae is supported by earlier studies. Jayasinghe and Mallik (2015) reported that the adult predatory mite consumed more of eggs than the other stages of T. urticae. Kadu (2007) found that the adult N. longispinosus showed more preference for eggs(59.67±6.42) than the adults (16.06±1.88) of its prey mite, T. urticae. Mandape et al. (2018) reported that N. longispinosus female consumed a mean of 56.27±3.37 eggs, 31.54±1.16 mixed stages and 19.93±1.75 adults of prey, T. urticae showing its preference for eggs than the other stages. Rao et al. (2017) reported that N. longispinosus adult female preferred more of larval stages its prey, T. urticae followed by the nymphal stages, consuming 20.04±0.75 larvae and 17.87±0.16 protonymphs per day and the adult prey was least preferred (5.12±0.39 per day). Ibrahim and Palacio (1994) found that N. longispinosus preferred more of larval and nymphal stages of prey, T. urticae and the adult prey was least preferred. The results of the above studies support the present findings asthe adult predatory mite consumed more number of prey eggs followed by larvae and nymphs.\r\nThe preference for T. urticae prey eggs and larval stages by other phytoseiid predatory mites have been reported in several studies. Furuichi et al. (2005), while studying the prey stage preference of the predatory mite, Neoseiulus womersleyi on T. urticae reported that the adult female predatory mites preferred eggs to the prey adults consuming 12.18±2.64 eggs as against 0.18±0.095 adult stagese very day. Reichert et al. (2016), while studying the feeding preference of phytoseiid predatory mite, Neoseiulus idaeus reported that, the predatory mite preferred T. urticae eggs compared to other stages, as the larva of the predatory mite consumed 0.36 eggs per day and no other stages; proton mph consumed 4.00 eggs, 0.72 larvae, 1.06 nymphs and no adult stages; the deutonymph consumed 4.91 eggs, 1.38 larvae, 1.34 nymphs and no adult stages, whereas, the adult predatory mite consumed 16.09 eggs, 4.95 larvae, 8.47 nymphs and 2.77 adult prey stages per day. Canlas et al. (2006) reported that the predatory mite, Neoseiulus californicus preferred the larvae and eggs of prey mite, T. urticae followed by nymphs, consuming 22.46 larvae, 20.91 eggs and 12.57 nymphs per day. Ahn et al. (2009) also showed that the predatory mite, N. californicus female consumed a greater number of T. urticae eggs and larvae than the nymphs (on strawberry) with the consumption of 17.14 eggs, 15.14 larvae and 11.81 nymphs in 24 h period. Farazmand et al. (2012) found that N. californicus consumed more of eggs than the nymphs of T. urticae, given a choice between the two stages. Rezaie et al. (2017) reported that all the life stages of N. californicus preferred eggs of T. urticae(on strawberry) consuming 2.6, 3.8, and 9.5 eggs by the protonymph, deutonymph and adult predatory mite, respectively. Croft and Croft (1993) reported that the immature stages of the predatory mite, Metaseiulus occidentalis consumed more of eggs and larvae of T. urticae. Badii et al. (2004), while determining the prey stage preference of the predatory mite, Euseius hibisci showed that at constant densities of different stages of T. urticae, the predatory mite consumed more number of eggs (4.1), followed by larvae (3.4), protonymphs (2.3), deutonymphs (0.03) and adults (0.01) every day. Moghadasi et al. (2013), while studying the prey stage preference of the predatory mite, Typhlodromus bagdasarjani to T. urticae prey (on rose) found that the predatory mite significantly preferred the eggs, followed by larvae and protonymphs of its prey. Akyazi et al. (2019), while studying the prey-stage preferences of phytoseiid predatory mites, Amblyseius swirskii and N. californicus between egg and nymphal stages of T. urticae indicated that N. californicus had no preference between eggs and nymphs of T. urticae (mean egg: nymph predation rate was 34.92%:38.82%) whereas, A. swirskii preferred nymphs to eggs of T. urticae (mean egg: nymph predation rate was 40.68%:63.37%).\r\nB. Feeding potential of the predatory mite Neoseiulus longispinosus on life stages of prey mite Tetranychus urticae \r\nDailyprey consumption of different life stages (egg, larva, nymph and adult) of T. urticae by the adult female predatory mite, N. longispinosus during its entire life span is presented in Table 2 and the total prey consumption by different life stages of predatory mite on life stages of prey mite, when prey mites offered @ one prey stage at a time or together, is presented in Table 3. Data on the daily consumption on life stages of the prey mite by the predatory mite indicated that, in a single day one female predatory mite consumed a maximum of 17.6 eggs or 15.1 larvae or 10.5 nymphs or 4.5 prey adults when offered separately or 12.5 prey individuals, when offered together (Table 2 & Fig. 2). The longevity of the female predatory mite when offered prey eggs or larvae or nymphs or adults separately, or together, ranged from 20-25 days, 22-29 days, 21-26 days, 18-27 days and 21-29 days, respectively. The mean prey consumption by the predatory mite female was low at the initial age, which increased gradually and declined further as the predator age advanced.\r\nIt was observed from Table 3 that the larva of the predatory mite did not feed on any of the prey stages when offered either separately or together. The predator protonymph consumed, mean of 1.70±0.30 eggs or 2.60±0.30 larvae or 2.10±0.17 nymphs & zero adults, when offered separately or 2.30±0.14 mixed prey stages, when offered together. The deutonymph consumed mean of 3.70±0.65 eggs or 4.20±0.41 larvae or 3.50±0.50 nymphs or 0.40±0.16 adults, when offered separately or 3.70±0.24 prey individuals, when offered together. Whereas, the adult female predatory mite in its entire life span consumed a mean of 214.80±22.11 eggs or 225.10±22.64 larvae or 124.80±4.07 nymphs or 54.20±5.24 adult prey mites, when offered separately or 164.30±9.70 prey individuals as mixed stages. The overall prey consumption by the female predatory mite during its entire life span including immature active stages was found to be 220.5±6.93 eggs or 231.90±22.59 larvae or 130.40±3.83 nymphs or 54.60±5.26 adults of T. urticae when offered separately or 170.30±9.71 prey individuals, when offered together (Table 3 & Fig. 3).\r\nStudies by earlier workers on the feeding potential of the predatory mite, N. longispinosus on the prey mite T. urticae have shown varying results.Ibrahim and Palacio (1994) reported that the protonymph and deutonymph of the predatory mite, Amblyseius longispinosus (=Neoseiulus longispinosus) consumed 3.94±0.16 and 3.99±0.22 eggs of the prey mite, T. urticae. The present findings are in little deviation to this study, wherein, the predatory protonymph consumed a smaller number of prey eggs (1.7±0.30) than reported by them, while the deutonymph consumed more or less the same number of prey eggs (3.7±0.65). Kadu (2007), while studying the feeding potential of the predatory mite, A. longispinosus on T. urticae infesting apple reported that the protonymph and deutonymph of the predatory mite consumed 3.57±0.15, 1.58±0.15 & 0.73±0.13; 3.79±0.20, 2.04±0.14 & 1.08±0.13 eggs, nymphs and adults of the prey mite, respectively, the adult predatory mite consumed a mean of 59.67±6.42, 22.94±2.51 & 16.06±1.88 eggs, nymphs and adults of the prey mite, respectively. The findings of the present study are almost similar with respect to the prey consumption by the predatory nymphs(Table 3), but the prey consumption by the adult predatory mite reported by them is much lower than that recorded in the present study, may be due to difference in prey densities used.\r\nChandrasekharappa et al. (1995) reported that the maximum per day consumption of T. urticae eggs by the adult N. longispinosus (at 25°) was 16.29±1.91, whereas, the adult prey consumption was 7.8±1.91. In the present study the per day mean preyconsumption by the predatory mite was 9.14±0.26 eggs and 2.17±0.18 adults, respectively, lower than they recorded, the reason may be variation in temperature in their studies. Ibrahim and Rahman (1997)reported that the gravid females of predatory mite, N. longispinosus were more voracious compared to younger females with a mean consumption of 17 larvae by the young females and 27.8 for the gravid females in 24 h. Whereas, in the present study, N. longispinosus female consumed 9.01±0.92 larvae per day, much lower than they recorded, may be due to difference in prey densities used and the study temperature.\r\nSanchit and Shukla (2016), reported that N. longispinosus female predatory mite consumed a mean of 56.27±3.37 eggs, 31.54±1.16 mixed stages and 19.93±1.75 adults of prey mite, T. urticae during its entire life span. The mean prey consumption recorded in the present study was 220.00±6.93 eggs, 54.60±5.26 adults and170.30±9.71 mixed stages, much higher than their report. The reason may be differences in temperature and the host plant. Rao et al. (2017) reported that the adult female N. longispinosus consumed 13.12±0.54 eggs, 20.04±0.75 larvae, 17.87±0.16 protonymphs, 12.25±0.45 deutonymphs and 5.12±0.39 adults of T. urticae per day. In the present study the number of eggs, larvae, nymphs and adults consumed by N. longispinosus was 9.14±0.26 eggs, 9.01±0.92 larvae, 5.19±0.17 nymphs & 2.17±0.18 adults. The difference in daily prey consumption between two studies may be may be due to difference in prey densities used and the study temperature.\r\nStudies pertaining to feeding potential of other phytoseiid predatory mites on T. urticae prey was available for comparison. Gorji et al. (2009), while studying the prey consumption of the predatory mite, Phytoseius plumifer on T. urticae found that the total prey consumption by female predatory mite was 426.98 at 25ºC. Kasap and Atlihan (2010), while investigating the consumption rate and functional response of the predaceous mite, Kampi modromusaberrans on T. urticae found that the predatory mite consumed a higher number of larvae followed by eggs, protonymphs and deutonymphs with a per day consumption of 3.27±0.22, 3.78±0.27, 1.86±0.26 and 0.60±0.13, respectively. Rasmy et al. (2013), while studying the functional response of the phytoseiid predatory mite, Typhlodromus negevi on nymphal stage of prey mite, T. urticae reported that the protonymph, deutonymph and female predatory mite consumed a maximum of 10.43, 13.4 and 22.42 T. urticae nymphs per day, respectively. The consumption of T. urticae prey by the respective predatory mites are higher or lower than those recorded in the present study for the predatory mite, N. longispinosus. This evidently indicates that each predatory mite species has its own prey potentiality against the common prey mite, T. urticae.\r\n','Nikita Negi, C. Chinnamade Gowda, N. Srinivasa and N. Sumithramma (2022). Predatory Credentials of Neoseiulus longispinosus (Evans) (Acari: Phytoseiidae) on Two Spotted Spider Mite Tetranychus urticae Koch (Acari: Tetranychidae). Biological Forum – An International Journal, 14(3): 0000-0000.'),(5501,'136','Effect of Organic Nutrient Management Practices on Soil Nutrient and Microbial Population and Seed Yield of Sesame (Sesamum indicum)','Md. Salman, K.B. Suneetha Devi, Bavaji Gudi Shobha Rathod, and K. Chandra Shaker ','251 Effect of Organic Nutrient Management Practices on Soil Nutrient and Microbial Population and Seed Yield of Sesame K.B. Suneetha Devi.pdf','',1,'Sesame is emerged as a valuable export crop mostly its use in foods and medicine in developing countries. But pesticide and chemical residues are becoming major problem in the promotion of sesame exports and adversely affect the sustainability of present and future generation. Therefore, organically produced sesame will get premium price in market with guarantee optimum crop yields with minimum losses of nutrients and ensure sustainable environment. A field experiment was conducted to understand the effect of organic nutrient management practices on soil nutrient and microbial population and seed yield of sesame. The investigation comprised of four foliar application of organic nutrients with three replications in plot size of 5.1 × 5 m2. Among all main treatments, 75 % N through FYM + 25 % N through vermicompost enriched with rock phosphate + microbial consortia @ 2 kg ha-1 (T4) was recorded significantly higher dehydrogenease activity (17.74 µg TPF g of soil-1 day-1), microbial count of bacteria (179.8 105 CFU g-1 soil), available NPK status (245.4, 38.4, 317.8 kg ha-1) and organic carbon content (0.5%) in soil after harvest and seed yield (478.6 kg ha-1) along with foliar application of Panchagavya @ 3 % (S1) individually, but the interaction was insignificant. Whereas microbial count of fungi was higher at 25 DAS with T1: 50 % N through FYM + 25 % N through Vermicompost + 25 % N through Neem cake and was at par with T4. There was no significant difference among main treatments at 50, 75 DAS and at harvest and with foliar application (sub treatments) of nutrients at all stages of crop growth. Thus, it is concluded that application of organic sources viz., 75 % N through FYM + 25 % N through vermicompost enriched with rock phosphate + microbial consortia @ 2 kg ha-1 (T4) along with foliar application of either Panchagavya @ 3% (S1) or NSKE @ 3 % (S2) or Vermiwash @ 10 ml lit-1 (S3) or Humic acid @ 1ml lit-1 (S4) can be recommended for higher profitability in sesame.','Dehydrogenase activity, Available N, P and K, Microbial population and Seed yield','Dehydrogenease activity was significantly higher with application of 75 % N through FYM + 25 % N through vermicompost enriched with rock phosphate + microbial consortia @ 2 kg ha-1 at 25, 50, 75 DAS and at harvest compared with other treatments. Highest microbial count of bacteria was found with application of 75 % N through FYM + 25 % N through vermicompost enriched with rock phosphate + microbial consortia @ 2 kg ha-1 at harvest whereas at 25 DAS, fungal count was higher with 50 % N through FYM + 25 % N through Vermicompost + 25 % N through Neem cake and was at par with T3 and T4. Foliar application of organic nutrients (Sub treatments) did not show significant effect on dehydrogenase and microbial population.','INTRODUCTION\r\nGlobally, total area under organic certification process (registered under National Programme for Organic Production) is 3.56 m.ha (2017-18). This includes 1.78 million ha (50%) cultivable area and another 1.78 m.ha (50%) for wild harvest collection (APEDA, 2018). Among all the states, Madhya Pradesh has covered largest area under organic certification followed by Rajasthan, Maharashtra and Uttar Pradesh. India produced around 1.70 million MT (2017-18) of certified organic products which includes all varieties of food products namely Oilseeds, Sugarcane, Cereals & Millets, Cotton, Pulses, Medicinal Plants, Tea, Fruits, Spices, Dry Fruits, Vegetables, Coffee etc. The production is not limited to the edible sector but also produces organic cotton fiber, functional food products etc. In terms of export value realization, Oilseeds (47.6%) lead among the products followed by Cereals and millets (10.4%), Plantation crop products such as Tea and Coffee (8.96%), Dry fruits (8.88%), Spices and condiments (7.76%) and others (APEDA, 2018).\r\nSesame is produced over an area of 8.8 million hectares with an annual production of around 2.8 million tonnes with average productivity of 382 kg ha-1 in the world. India is the leading country with higher (25.8%) share of production from the largest (29.8%) share of area and highest export (40%) in the world. In India, sesame is grown over an area of 16.66 lakh hectares with production of 1.74 lakh tonnes and productivity of 448 kg ha-1. In Telangana, it is grown over an area of 21,000 hectares with an annual production of 15,000 tonnes and productivity of 714 kg ha-1. It is mainly grown in the districts of Northern Telangana, viz., Adilabad, Jagtial, Karimnagar and Nizamabad, as kharif crop and also as summer crop after rice, turmeric and cotton during Kharif/Rabi season (INDIASTAT, 2017).\r\nSesamum oil consisted 85% unsaturated fatty acid is highly stable and has reducing effect on cholesterol and prevent coronary heart diseases. Sesame is called as ‘queen of oils’ because of extra ordinary cosmetic, skin care qualities and as well as resistance to rancidity. It is grown in all seasons of the year and being a short duration crop, fit well into various cropping sequences/systems and most preferred by farmers because of low input requirement with higher output. Sesame has emerged as a valuable export crop earning more than Rs.1000 crores from the export of 2.5 lakh tonnes of sesame seed since it is mostly used in foods and medicine in developed countries. Of late, pesticide residues are becoming major problem in the promotion of sesame exports. Use of excess chemical fertilizers had resulted in increased crop yields in the initial year which was the result of green revolution but it had adversely affected the sustainability at the present and future generations. Therefore, organically produced sesame will suit to tailor made requirements of buyers and will get premium price in both national and international markets (Gopinath et al., 2011).\r\nThe primary goal of organic agriculture is to optimize the inputs and productivity of interdependent communities of soil life, plants, animals and people. The management of nutrients in organic farming system presents a formidable challenge as the use of inorganic fertilizers is not permitted (Muthuswamy et al., 1990). Currently agriculture is heavily dependent on mineral fertilizers and inorganic pesticides, and impacts of the continuous application are reflected in deteriorating soil health and increased resistance to pest and pathogens (Kumar et al., 2010; Cai et al., 2016). Biofertilizers are considered as low monetary inputs and play a vital role in agricultural ecosystem as the microorganisms fix atmospheric nitrogen, convert fixed phosphorous potassium into available forms. Therefore, organic inputs need to be optimised to ensure optimum and regulated nutrient supply which will guarantee optimum crop yields with minimum losses of nutrients and ensure sustainable environment. Hence, an experiment was conducted to optimize organic nutrient management practices in sesame under rainfed conditions.\r\nMATERIAL AND METHODS\r\nThe experiment was carried out at College Farm, Agricultural College, Polasa, Jagtial, Professor Jayashankar Telangana State Agricultural University. The farm is geographically situated at an altitude of 243.4 m above mean sea level on 18º4940N latitude and 78º5645E longitude and it is categorized under Northern Zone of Telangana State. The weekly mean maximum temperature during crop growth period was ranged from 29.2°C to 32.3°C during 2019 with an average of 31.2°C, while the weekly mean minimum temperature ranged from 15.6°C to 24.1°C with an average of 21.1°C. The total rainfall received during crop growth period was 465.1mm and total rainy days of 37. Rainfall was not received during 45th, 46th, 47th, 48th and 49th standard weeks while maximum rainfall (104.5 mm) was received during 39th standard week. An average of 6.4 hours day-1 sunshine hours was received. Soil samples were collected randomly at a depth of 0-30 cm from the experimental site initially before sowing and finally after harvest. The composite samples were then analysed for their physico-chemical characteristics (pH, EC, OC), available N, P and K. The experiment was initiated with four main treatments (T1: 50 % N through FYM + 25 % N through Vermicompost + 25 % N through Neem cake, T2: 50 % N through FYM + 25 % N through Vermicompost enriched with rock phosphate + Microbial consortia @ 2 kg ha-1, T3: 50 % N through FYM + 25 % N through Neem cake + Humic acid granules @ 12.5 kg ha-1, T4: 75 % N through FYM + 25 % N through Vermicompost enriched with rock phosphate + Microbial consortia @ 2 kg ha-1) and four sub treatments (foliar application of S1: Panchagavya @ 3 %, S2: NSKE @ 3 %, S3: Vermiwash @ 10 ml lit-1, S4: Humic acid @ 1ml lit-1) with three replications. FYM was applied as basal, Vermicompost and enriched Vermicompost were applied as top dressing at 25 DAS and 50 DAS. Humic acid granules, neem cake and microbial consortia were applied as basal. The recommended dose of fertilizers for the rainfed sesamum was 60 kg N, 20 kg P2O5 and 40 kg K2O ha-1. Out of this, 30 kg N, 20 kg P2O5 and 20 kg K2O were applied as basal. 30 kg N and 20 kg K2O were applied after 30 days. The P and K contribution from organic sources was worked out and the remaining P and K was applied through straight fertilizers. Chemical analysis of FYM, Vermicompost, neem cake and Vermicompost enriched with rock phosphate was carried as per Bradstreet, 1965. The N, P and K content was 0.51, 0.17 & 0.43 % in FYM; 1.16, 0.21&0.62 % in vermicompost; 4.31, 0.63 & 1.26 % in neem cake and 1.21, 1.50 & 0.67 % in vermicompost enriched with rock phosphate respectively. Microbial consortia @ 2 kg ha-1 was applied as basal in T2 and T4 treatments. It is a combination of N biofertilizers (azotobacter), P solubilising bacteria (PSB), K solubilising bacteria (KRB) and Zinc solubilising bacteria. Humic acid granules @ 12.5 kg ha-1 with 6% humic acid, 12% isolated amino acid, 4% fulvic acid 4% other nutrients was applied as basal in T3 treatment. Three sprays of organic nutrients (sub plots) were initiated at flower initiation and continued with one week interval @ 45, 52, 59 DAS.\r\nSesame variety JCS 1020 released from Regional Agricultural Research Station, Jagtial, Telangana state during the year 2019. It is a non-branched variety with multi capsular character and suitable for dense sowing or higher population. Its yield in late kharif is 800 kg ha-1 and in summer is 1050-1100 kg ha-1. Crop duration is 100 days. Its oil content is 46-49%. It is a multi capsular white seeded variety and resistant to powdery mildew disease. The gross plot size was 5.1 × 5 m2 and a net plot size of 3.9 × 4.4 m2. Seed rate of 2.5 kg acre-1 is required with a spacing of 30 cm × Solid rows and sown directly. Gap filling was taken up after 10 days of direct sowing in the field. Thinning of excess seedlings was done at 20 days after sowing. No herbicides were used as the experiment is maintained organically in the field. Weeds were removed by manual weeding carried at 25 and 45 DAS in the field. Application of Bacillus thuringenesis @ 2 g lit-1 in the field to control lepidopteran pests and majorly leaf webbers at flowering stage was followed. Drenching with Trichoderma viridae @ 5 g lit-1 in the field to control sucking pests, cercospora leaf spot and alternaria leaf spot applied at 60 DAS. As the crop was grown under rainfed conditions, irrigation was not provided till flowering stage. Two Irrigations were provided at pod filling stage as there was no rainfall after standard week 44 (November) 60 and 75 DAS. The crop was harvested on 5th December 2019.\r\nRESULTS AND DISCUSSION\r\nThe influence of organic nutrient management practices on microbial count of bacteria of in soil at different stages of crop growth: There was no significant difference among main treatments on microbial count of bacteria (105 CFU g-1 soil) at 25 & 50 DAS. At later stages, the effect of main treatment T2: 50 % N through FYM + 25 % N through vermicompost enriched with rock phosphate + microbial consortia @ 2 kg ha-1 (218.4) recorded significantly higher microbial count of bacteria and was on par with T4: 75 % N through FYM + 25 % N through vermicompost enriched with rock phosphate + microbial consortia @ 2 kg ha-1 (216.0). It was also at par with T1: 50 % N through FYM + 25 % N through vermicompost + 25 % N through Neem cake (204.8) at 75 DAS and was followed by T3: 50 % N through FYM + 25 % N through Neem cake + Humic acid granules @ 12.5 kg ha-1 at 75 DAS (192.8). At harvest, it was observed that significantly highest microbial count of bacteria was found with T4: 75 % N through FYM + 25 % N through vermicompost enriched with rock phosphate + microbial consortia @ 2 kg ha-1 (179.8) and was on par with T3: 50 % N through FYM + 25 % N through Neem cake + Humic acid granules @ 12.5 kg ha-1 (172.8) and T2: 50 % N through FYM + 25 % N through vermicompost enriched with rock phosphate + microbial consortia @ 2 kg ha-1 (165.7). Lowest microbial activity was observed with T1: 50 % N through FYM + 25 % N through vermicompost + 25 % N through Neem cake (157.9). The increase in microbial activity in organic farming system was documented by Nardi et al. (2009) and Swaminathan et al. (2007).\r\nThere was no significant difference among sub treatments on microbial count of bacteria at all growth stages. The interaction effect between main treatments and sub treatments on microbial count of bacteria (105 CFU g-1soil) at 25 DAS, 50 DAS, 75 DAS and at harvest in plant and seed was found non significant.\r\nThe influence of organic nutrient management practices on microbial count (105 CFU g-1 soil) of fungi of sesame: There was no significant difference among main treatments on microbial count of fungi (105 CFU g-1 soil) at 50 DAS, 75 DAS & at harvest. Lower number was observed with T2: 50 % N through FYM + 25 % N through vermicompost enriched with rock phosphate + microbial consortia @ 2 kg ha-1 (15.8). At 25 DAS, T1: 50 % N through FYM + 25 % N through vermicompost + 25 % N through Neem cake (19.7) recorded highest microbial count of fungi and on par with T4: 75 % N through FYM + 25 % N through vermicompost enriched with rock phosphate + microbial consortia @ 2 kg ha-1 (18.9), T3: 50 % N through FYM + 25 % N through Neem cake + Humic acid granules @ 12.5 kg ha-1 (18.7) and was followed by T2: 50 % N through FYM + 25 % N through vermicompost enriched with rock phosphate + microbial consortia @ 2 kg ha-1 (17.7). The microbial consortia may have increased fungal (beneficial) colonies by increasing the nutrient availability and rhizosphere development (Jarvan et al., 2014). It is observed that there was no significant difference among sub treatments on microbial count of fungi at all growth stages. The interaction effect between main treatments and sub treatments on microbial count of fungi (105 CFU g-1 soil) at 25 DAS, 50 DAS, 75 DAS and at harvest in plant and seed was found no significant.\r\nEffect of organic nutrient management practices on dehydrogenase activity (µg TPF g of soil-1day-1) in soil: Dehydrogenase activity (DHA) is one of the important and most sensitive bioindicator relating to soil fertility. It serves as an indicator of the microbiological redox systems and could be considered as a good and adequate measure of microbial oxidative activities in soil (Jarvan et al., 2014). Influence of organic nutrient management practices on dehydrogenase activity (µg TPF g of soil-1 day-1) in soil during the experiment was presented in Table 1. The dehydrogenase activity was significantly influenced by main and sub treatments at all stages of crop growth. Dehydrogenase activity was reached its peak at 50 DAS and slowly decreased at 75 DAS and at harvest. \r\nDehydrogenease activity was significantly higher with T4: 75 % N through FYM + 25 % N through vermicompost enriched with rock phosphate + microbial consortia @ 2 kg ha-1 at 25 DAS (14.4), 50 DAS (24.41), 75 DAS (20.21) and at harvest (17.74) compared with other treatments. It was followed by T2: 50 % N through FYM + 25 % N through vermicompost enriched with rock phosphate + microbial consortia @ 2 kg ha-1, T1: 50 % N through FYM + 25 % N through vermicompost + 25 % N through Neem cake and T3: 50 % N through FYM + 25 % N through Neem cake + Humic acid granules @ 12.5 kg ha-1 respectively, at all stages of crop growth. It was supported by Jarvan et al. (2014) who stated that organically managed crop rotation increased dehydrogenase activity in soil. Dehydrogenase reflects the total range of oxidative activity of soil microflora (Liang et al. 2014). Foliar application of organic nutrients also significantly increased Dehydrogenase activity in soil. Foliar application of Panchagavya @ 3 % showed higher dehydrogenase activity (14.03, 23.85, 19.44 and 17.32) at 25, 50, 75 DAS and at harvest. It was followed by and S4: Humic acid @ 1ml lit-1, S3: Vermiwash @ 10ml lit-1 and S2: NSKE @ 3 %. It was supported by Ramakrishna et al. (2017).\r\nInteraction between main treatments and foliar application of organic nutrients (sub treatment) was insignificant on dehydrogenase activity of soil at different stages of crop growth in sesamum.\r\nThe influence of organic nutrient management practices on Available N, P2O5, K2O status (kg ha-1) and Organic carbon content (%) in soil: Influence of organic nutrient management practices on available N, P2O5, K2O status and Organic carbon content in soil after harvest of sesame was presented in Table 2. The available N, P2O5, K2O status and Organic carbon content in soil after harvest of sesame was found to be significantly influenced by main treatments. The treatment T4: 75 % N through FYM + 25 % N through vermicompost enriched with rock phosphate + microbial consortia @ 2 kg ha-1 has significantly highest available N, P2O5, K2O status and Organic carbon content in soil (245.4, 38.4, 317.8 kg ha-1 and 0.5%). Lower available N, P2O5, K2O status and Organic carbon content in soil after harvest of sesame was observed with T3: 50 % N through FYM + 25 % N through Neem cake + Humic acid granules @ 12.5 kg ha-1 (217.5, 31.1, 276.3 kg ha-1 and 0.4%). Available N, P2O5, K2O and organic carbon in soil was improved under integrated application of chemical, organic and biological sources of nutrients compared to its initial soil fertility. It could be attributed to addition of root biomass, fallen leaves of sesame and black gram and organic matter through FYM or Vermicompost (Vishal Kumar et al., 2019). Mokariya et al. (2021) states that most of growth and yield attributes contributed in seed yield of sesame evidently resulted in higher yield in treatments which get nitrogen and phosphorus through chemical fertilizers.\r\nThere was no significant difference among foliar application of organic nutrients in available N status in soil after harvest of sesame but found significant with available P2O5 and K2O status and Organic carbon content in soil. Higher available P2O5 and K2O status and Organic carbon content in soil after harvest of sesame of 35.7, 311.7 kg ha-1 and 0.5% was observed with foliar application of Humic acid @ 1ml lit-1 and was at par with Panchagavya @ 3% and (36.0, 301.9 kg ha-1 and 0.5%). Lower available P2O5 and K2O status and Organic carbon content in soil after harvest of sesame was observed with foliar application of NSKE @ 3 % (32.6, 270.5 kg ha-1 and 0.4%).\r\nThe interaction effect between main treatments and sub treatments on available N, P2O5, K2O status and Organic carbon content in soil after harvest of sesame was found non significant.\r\nThe influence of organic nutrient management practices on seed yield (kg ha-1) of sesame: Main organic nutrient management practices and their interaction with foliar application of organic nutrients (sub treatments) showed significant effect on seed yield of sesame. But, only foliar application of organic nutrient (sub treatments) showed non significant effect on seed yield of sesame.\r\nThe effect of main treatments on seed yield of sesame was found significant. Application of 75 % N through FYM + 25 % N through Vermicompost enriched with rock phosphate + Microbial consortia @ 2 kg ha-1 (T4) produced significantly higher seed yield (478.6 kg ha-1) and was superior over other treatments. It may be due to balanced and timely supply of nutrients from diversified sources of nutrients (FYM, vermicompost, microbial consortia) that resulted in prolonged availability of nutrients to crop (Dharati et al., 2017). The positive influence of INM on nutrient content of crop due to improved nutritional environment both in the rhizosphere and the plant system (Nirav Parmar et al., 2020).\r\nThis was closely followed by application of T2: 50 % N through FYM + 25 % N through Vermicompost enriched with rock phosphate + Microbial consortia @ 2 kg ha-1 in recording higher sesame seed yield (433 kg ha-1) and was at par with T1: 50 % N through FYM + 25 % N through Vermicompost + 25 % N through Neem cake (424) and T3: 50 % N through FYM + 25 % N through Neem cake + Humic acid granules @ 12.5 kg ha-1 (405). Vermicompost enriched with rock phosphate was found to be effective compared to only vermicompost application due to increased availability of P, K and S to oilseed crops that increased seed yield and quality of sesame (Parthasarathi and Ashwin Chandra, 2012). Mokariya et al. (2021) revealed that proper fertilization with increased net photosynthesis and greater mobilization of photosynthates towards reproductive structures, which might increased the yield attributes and finally the seed and stalk yield of sesame. \r\nAmong sub treatments, foliar application of different organic sources i.e., Panchagavya, Neem Seed Kernel Extract, vermiwash and humic acid as foliar application effectively increased seed yield of sesame though found non-significant among them. In addition to small fraction of nutrients, the above organic sources has enzymatic and hormonal action that resulted in increase in seed yield besides improving the quality of sesame and lower incidence of pest and diseases. Application of panchagavya @ 3 % produced higher sesame yield (450 kg ha-1) and was closely followed by humic acid, Vermiwash and Neem Seed Kernel Extract respectively.\r\nInteraction between main treatments and sub treatments was significant on seed yield of Sesame and was presented along with stalk yield of Sesame. \r\n','Md. Salman, K.B. Suneetha Devi, Bavaji Gudi Shobha Rathod, and K. Chandra Shaker (2022). Effect of Organic Nutrient Management Practices on Soil Nutrient and Microbial Population and Seed Yield of Sesame (Sesamum indicum). Biological Forum – An International Journal, 14(3): 1482-1487.'),(5502,'136','Performance of Sweet Flag (Acorus calamus L.) accessions in Andhra Pradesh','Madhuri K., Kalpana Motha, Aparna D., Sudarshana Deepa V. and Sunitha P.','252 Performance of Sweet Flag _Acorus calamus L._ accessions in Andhra Pradesh Madhuri K.pdf','',1,'The present investigation was carried out to evaluate mean performances of sweet flag (Acorus calamus L.) accessions collected from different parts of India. The experiment was conducted at Horticultural Research Station, Venkataramannagudem during 2021-22. Total thirty-eight sweet flag accessions were evaluated with two replications in Randomized Block Design. Significant variation was observed among all the accessions with respect to growth, yield and yield attributing characters. Mean performance of accessions for growth, yield and yield attributing characters revealed that accession APAc-5 performed well among the thirty-eight accessions which recorded highest plant height (52.50cm), leaf length (46.01 cm), total number of leaves-1 (64.95), number of lets plant-1 (5.25), number of sprouts plant-1 (11.85), rhizome length (32.60 cm), rhizome girth (2.61 cm), fresh rhizome yield hectare-1 (62.78 q), dry rhizome yield hectare-1 (37.56 q). Hence, APAc-5 can be recommended for commercial cultivation in Andhra Pradesh and also can be utilised in further breeding programme.','Sweet flag, introduction, Mean performance, Morphological characters, Accessions','Based on our findings, it was found that APAc-5 performed good interm of growth, yield and yield attributing parameters followed by APAc-9 and APAc-22. Hence these three accessions can be recommended for commercial cultivation in Andhra Pradesh and can be further utilized in the breeding programmes.','INTRODUCTION \r\nSweet flag (Acorus calamus L.), belongs to the family Acoraceae, is a grass-like, rhizome forming perennial that can grow upto 2 m high, resembling iris plant. It is a semi-aquatic or marshy perennial herb having 1.5m long and 2-4 cm wide narrow leaves with indefinitely branched rhizome creeping in mud. \r\nAcorus calamus L. is an aromatic medicinal plant, rich in alkaloids, phenolics and flavonoids. Around 50% of modern American medicines come from natural sources, especially from various plants (Copping, 1996).It is a potential source of compounds possessing beneficial biological activities. It is an integral part of the traditional Indian and Chinese systems of medicines and has a long history of use (Wu et al., 1994; Lee et al., 2011). Due to the presence of essential oils (β-asarone, acorenone, isocalamendiol etc.), leaves possess pleasant and sweet odour. The secondary metabolites like alkaloids, terpenoids, glycosides, phenols, flavonoids and saponins possess medicinal properties (Bhatt et al., 2005) which have been scientifically tested for their insecticidal, anticancer, antimalarial (Chopra and Doiphode 2002), antibacterial (Bagrov et al., 2009), antifungal properties. Sweet flag rarely produces seeds and is mainly propagated by vegetative means. \r\nMATERIALS AND METHODS\r\nThe experiment was conducted at Horticultural Research Station, Venkataramannagudem that is situated at 16°83’N latitude and 81°5’ E longitude with an altitude of 34 m (112 feet) above the mean sea level. This zone experiences hot, humid summer, mild winter and with an average annual rainfall of 900 mm. The soil is red loamy with good drainage and moderate water holding capacity. The physical composition of the soil was 70 per cent sand, 20 per cent silt and 15 per cent clay. The soil pH was 5.96 and the EC was 0.3 dSm-1. The available nitrogen, phosphorus and potassium contents were 512 kg, 17.52 kg and 217.5 kg ha-1 respectively. The available organic carbon content of the soil was 0.34 per cent.\r\nTotal thirty-eight sweet flag accessions were evaluated with two replications in Randomized Block Design during 2021-22. All the recommended intercultural operations were followed. The observations for fourteen traits viz., plant height (cm), leaf length (cm), leaf width (cm), number of leaves, number of nodes, rhizome internodal length (cm), number of sprouts, number of lets, rhizome length (cm), rhizome girth (cm), fresh rhizome yield ha-1 (q), dry rhizome yield ha-1(q) were recorded randomly from five plants in each replication. Analysis of variance is done partitioning the variation into treatments and replications according to procedure given by Analysis of variance given by Fisher and Yates (1963).\r\nRESULTS AND DISCUSSION\r\nThe mean performance of all the accessions for fourteen different traits statistically significant were presented in Table 1.Plant height and leaf length in thirty-eight accessions ranged from 22.85 cm to52.50 cm and 13.18 cm to 46.01 cm with an average 38.54 cm and 28.39 cm respectively. Maximum plant height and leaf length were recorded in APAc-5 (52.50 cm&46.01 cm) followed by APAc-9 (51.90 cm), APAc-21 (37.03 cm) whereas minimum plant height and leaf length was recorded by TNAc-13 (22.85 cm & 13.18 cm) respectively. The leaf width in thirty-eight accessions ranged from 0.63 cm to 1.58 cm with an average 1.14 cm. Maximum leaf width was recorded by APAc-9 (1.58 cm) followed by APAc-5 (1.58 cm) whereas the minimum leaf width was recorded by Golaghat-6 (0.63 cm). Total number of leaves plant-1 ranged from 9.50 cm to 64.95 with an average 20.02. The highest number of leaves was recorded by APAc-5 (64.95) followed by APAc-9 (56.20) and TNAc-9 (9.50) registered the lowest number of leaves. These findings were in tune with results of several Kasturi et al. (2015); Avadhani et al. (2016); Priya et al. (2017), who reported genetic variation in Acorus calamus (L.) accessions of India and the results revealed that plant height recorded highest in ACSBL (61.7 cm) and lowest in ACAK (30.3 cm).\r\nIt is observed from the Table 1 that the internodal length ranged from 0.64 cm to 2.51 cm with an average 1.34 cm. Maximum internodal length was recorded by APAc-10 (2.51 cm) whereas the minimum internodal length was recorded by APAc-17 (0.64 cm). An average of 19.83 nodes plant-1were produced in thirty accessions ranged from 9.40 to 34.40. The highest number of nodes plant-1 was recorded by APAc-14 (34.40) followed by ApAc-1(31.45) whereas Sunitur-4 (9.40) registered the lowest number of nodes plant-1. Number of lets plant-1 ranged from 0 to 5.25 with an average 0.63. More number of lets plant-1 was recorded in APAc-5 (5.25). Number of sprouts plant-1 ranged from 0.50 to11.85 with an average 3.66. Morenumber of sprouts plant-1 was recorded in APAc-5 (11.85) followed by APAc-9 (11.75) whereas TNAc-8 (0.50) recorded fewer number of sprouts plant-1. This is in corroboration with the finding of Rana et al. (2013); Kasture et al. (2015), who reported variability in Acorus calamus L. accessions of India and the results revealed that internodal length recorded highest in AC 19 (1.0-1.9 cm) and lowest in AC 10 (0.3-0.4 cm).\r\nAn average of 18.03 cm rhizome length, 1.43 cm rhizome girth were recorded in thirty-eight accession ranging from 9.52 cm to 32.60 cm and 0.60 cm to2.61 cm. Maximum rhizome length and rhizome girth was recorded in APAc-5 (32.60 cm & 2.61 cm) followed by APAc-9 (30.46 cm) and Raipur (2.59 cm) whereas minimum rhizome length and rhizome girth were recorded by Sunitur-4 (9.52 cm & 0.60cm) respectively. Fresh rhizome yield and dry rhizome yield hectare-1 ranged from 4.17 q to 62.78 q and 3.14 q to37.56 q with an average 16.42 q and 11.23 q respectively (Fig. 1 & 2). Maximum fresh and dry rhizome yield ha-1 was recorded by APAc-5 (62.78 & 37.56 q) followed by APAc-9 (33.53q & 27.28 q) whereas minimum fresh and dry rhizome yield ha-1 was recorded by Sunitur-4 (4.17 q & 3.14q) respectively. These results are in agreement with findings of Dusek et al. (2007); Rana et al. (2013); Kasture et al. (2015). Priya et al. (2017) reported the variation in the dry rhizome yield of various accessions under study, that ranged from 9.80q ha-1 to 16.80q ha-1. Highest dry rhizome yield was recorded in Acc-3, Acc-6 & Acc-9 (16.80 q ha-1). \r\n \r\n','Madhuri K., Kalpana Motha, Aparna D., Sudarshana Deepa V. and Sunitha P. (2022). Performance of Sweet Flag (Acorus calamus L.) accessions in Andhra Pradesh. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 14(3): 1488-1491.'),(5503,'136','Incidence of Insect Pests on Summer Mungbean in Relation to Weather Parameters','Shivendra Pratap Singh, Sameer Kumar Singh and Umesh Chandra','253 Incidence of Insect Pests on Summer Mungbean In Relation to Weather Parameters Sameer Kumar Singh.pdf','',1,'Mungbean (Vigna radiata (L.) Wilczek), generally known as green gram is the most important and often advanced pulse crop. About 38 insect pests, of which 22 are regular visitors have been identified in India from mungbean that causes economic losses in green gram. The current investigation was carried out on the mungbean variety NDM-1 during the Summer of 2021 to find out the role of weather parameters on the incidence of insect pests. The highest incidence of whitefly was found at 17th SMW (11.40 whitefly per cage) and lowest 22nd SMW (1.20 whitefly per cage), whereas it showed a positive and significant correlation with maximum temperature (0.806*) and positive and non-significant correlation with wind speed, sunshine (0.246 & 0.494, respectively), but negative and non-significant correlations with minimum temperature, relative humidity, and rainfall (-0.252, -0.235 & -0.547, respectively). The highest incidence of Jassid was in 19th SMW (7.20 per cage) and the lowest in 21st SMW (1.40 per cage), which had a significant positive correlation with maximum temperature (0.759*), non-significant negative correlation with minimum temperature, relative humidity, wind speed, rainfall (-0.354, -0.185, -0.058, -0.559, respectively). However, it showed a positive and non-significant correlation with sunshine (0.388). The highest incidence of thrips was in the 19th SMW (12.40 per 10 flowers) and the lowest was in the 22nd SMW (3.60 per 10 flowers). It showed a significant positive correlation with the minimum temperature (0.712*), but a non-significant negative correlation with the maximum temperature and sunshine (-0.073 & -0.102, respectively) (0.437, 0.460 & 0.097, respectively). The spotted pod borer incidence peaked in the 19th SMW (4.20 larvae per plant) and was lowest in the 22nd SMW (0.60 larvae per plant). It showed a positive and non-significant correlation with minimum and maximum temperature, relative humidity, wind speed, and rainfall (0.464, 0.088, 0.258, 0.650 & 0.066, respectively), however, it showed a negative non-significant correlation with sunshine (-0.041). The results of the present experiment may be used in the formulation of suitable management strategies against major insect pests of mungbean.','Incidence, Summer Mungbean, Insect pests, Weather factors','During summer (Zaid) 2021; the incidence of insect pests was recorded from germination to maturity stage. The highest incidence of whitefly was found at 17th SMW and showed positive and significant correlation with maximum temperature (0.806*) and positive and non-significant correlation with wind speed, and sunshine (0.246 & 0.494, respectively), but negative and non-significant correlations with minimum temperature, relative humidity, and rainfall (-0.252, -0.235 & -0.547, respectively), whereas, Jassid had a significant positive correlation with maximum temperature (0.759*), non-significant negative correlation with minimum temperature, relative humidity, wind speed, rainfall (-0.354, -0.185, -0.058, -0.559, respectively) and positive and non-significant correlation with sunshine (0.388) and thrips had a significant positive correlation with the minimum temperature (0.712*), but a non-significant negative correlation with the maximum temperature and sunshine (-0.073 & -0.102, respectively) (0.437, 0.460 & 0.097, respectively) with the highest population during 19th SMW. The spotted pod borer incidence peaked in the 19th SMW (4.20 larvae per plant) and was lowest in the 22nd SMW (0.60 larvae per plant). It showed a positive and non-significant correlation with minimum and maximum temperature, relative humidity, wind speed, and rainfall (0.464, 0.088, 0.258, 0.650 & 0.066, respectively), however, it showed a negative non-significant correlation with sunshine (-0.041).','INTRODUCTION\r\nLegume crops have a special role in the sustainable cultivation of crops, and pulse crops, which are the main source of protein in the Indian diet, provide extremely nutritious food while also preserving soil fertility and productivity and boosting India\'s agricultural economy (Sujata et al., 2017). Pulses play a significant role in human nutrition, particularly for low-income populations in developing nations. Legume crops are regarded as a staple food for the underprivileged in India and are also crucial to sustainable agriculture since they increase soil fertility by fixing nitrogen. One significant leguminous crop for diversifying the global cereal-based cropping system is the green gram. By cultivating more than a dozen different types of pulse crops, India holds the distinction of being the world\'s largest producer of grain pulses (Singh et al., 2020). \r\nIn India, green gram is grown almost on 4.26 million hectares with an annual production of 2.01 million tones and a productivity of 472 kg/hectare. More than 80 per cent of green gram production comes from 10 states of India. These are Rajasthan, Madhya Pradesh, Maharashtra, Bihar, Karnataka, Tamil Nadu, Gujarat Andhra Pradesh, Odisha and Telangana. In India, Rajasthan covered the highest 42.23 per cent area and 39 per cent production of green gram. In Rajasthan, green gram is grown in a 17.19 lakh hectare area with a production of 7.42 lakh tones (Anonymous, 2019).\r\nAbout 38 insect pests, of which 22 are regular visitors, have been identified in India from mungbean that causes economic losses in green gram. Chhabra and Kooner (1985) noted 54.90 per cent yield losses caused by pest complex in green gram. Duraimurugan and Tyagi (2014) observed on different green gram varieties, preventable losses owing to pest complex fluctuated from 27.03 to 38.06 per cent, with an average of 32.97 per cent. The major pests of green gram comprise legume pod borer (Maruca vitrata Fabrieius), thrips (Megalurothrips usitatus Bagnall), whitefly (Bemisia tabaci Gennadius), jassid (Empoasca kerri Pruthi), pod bugs (Clavigralla gibbosa Spinola), blister beetle (Mylabris pustulata Thunberg). The minor pests include Bihar hairy caterpillar (Spilarctia obliqua Walker), green semilooper (Anomis flava Fabricius), galerucid beetle (Madurasia obscurella Jacoby), ash weevil (Myllocerus sp.), grasshopper (Oxya sp.), red spider mite (Tetranychus sp.) and stink bug (Nezara viridula Linnaeus) on the green gram. Some other insects, i.e. red hairy caterpillar (Amsacta moorei Butler), tobacco caterpillar (Spodoptera litura Fabricius), pumpkin beetle (Aulacophora foviecollis Lucas), termite (Odontotermus sp.), bean aphid (Aphis craccivora Koch), lablab leaf miner (Cyphosticha sp.), pulse beetle (Callosobruchus chinensis Linnaeus and Callosobruchus maculatus Fabricius) and blue butterfly (Lampides boeticus Linnaeus) were also reported to visit greengram (Tikoo, 1996; Kooner et al., 2006; Lal et al., 1980; Lal, 1985; Ooi, 1973; Duraimurugan and Tyagi, 2014; Srivatava and Singh, 1976). Keeping the aforementioned considerations in mind above study was doneto determine the impact of abiotic factors on the prevalence of major insect pests in summer mungbean.\r\nMATERIALS AND METHODS\r\nThe current investigation was carried out on the mungbean variety NDM-1 during the Summer of 2021 at the students\' Instructional Farm at the Acharya Narendra Deva University of Agriculture and Technology in Kumarganj, Ayodhya, Uttar Pradesh, India. The plot\'s dimensions were well-kept at 6 x 6 metres with a 1metre border. The plant-to-plant distance was also kept at 10 centimetres.The seasonal occurrence of insect pests on Mungbean was recorded from five randomly selected places by using the rectangular split cage for whitefly, jassid and visual counts for thrips (per 10 flowers), and pod borers (larvae per plant). The meteorological data of weather parameters were obtained from the Department of Agricultural Meteorology, College of Agriculture, Acharya Narendra Deva University of Agriculture and Technology, Kumarganj, Ayodhya, (U.P.). The correlation coefficient between insect pests’ population and weather parameters like minimum and maximum temperature (°), relative humidity (%), wind speed (km/h), rainfall (mm) and sunshine (hrs.) were worked out.\r\nRESULTS AND DISCUSSION\r\nThe observations were made at regular intervals to monitor the appearance of major insect pests in the Summer of 2021. At weekly intervals, data were collected on the severity of the insect pest complex, which includes whitefly (B. tabaci), Jassids (E. kerri), Thrips (C. indicus), and Spotted pod borers (M. vitrata). These data were analyzed in conjunction with the current environmental conditions. The outcomes demonstrated the insect pests were active during different phases of crop growth.\r\nIncidence of Whitefly (B. tabaci). The incidence of whitefly was noticed first time during 15th SMW (3.60 whitefly per cage). The peak population was recorded during17th SMW (11.40 whitefly per cage) (Table 1 & Fig. 1). During 17th SMW, the maximum temperature and minimum temperature was 38.50°C & 17.70°C, respectively whereas, the relative humidity was 58.60%, rainfall 0.00mm, wind speed 3.40 km per hrs. and sunshine 7.50 hrs. The minimum population (1.20 whitefly was noticed in 22nd SMW per cage). During 22nd SMW, maximum temperature and minimum temperature were 31.60°C &24.30°C, respectively followed by relative humidity was 78.60%, rainfall 92.80mm, wind speed 4.30 km per hrs. and sunshine 5.80 hrs. The present findings are in conformity with Ahirwar and Bhowmick (2016) who reported the population of B. tabaci ranged from 0.40 to 3.81 per six leaves at the peak incidence of whitefly (B. tabaci) observed on 17th SMW of April. These findings are also in agreement with Sujatha and Bharpoda (2017) who reported the incidence of whitefly was appeared and remained on the crop from 13th SMW to 17th SMW with one peak (2.44/3 leaves) during 16th SMW.\r\nIncidence of Jassid (E. kerri). The population of jassid was noticed for the first time during 15th SMW (1.80 jassids per cage) and continued up to 21st SMW (1.40 jassid per cage) (Table 1, Fig.1). The peak population was recorded at 17th SMW (7.20 jassid per cage) and during this period maximum temperature was 38.5°C and minimum temperature was 17.7°C while, relative humidity, rainfall, wind speed and sunshine was 58.60%, 0.00mm, 3.40km per hrs, 7.50 hrs respectively. The minimum population was noticed at 21st SMW (1.40 jassid per cage). During 21st SMW maximum temperature and minimum temperature were 34.00°C 24.30°C, whereas, the relative humidity, rainfall, wind speed and sunshine were 64.70%, 16.20mm, 3.80 km per hrs and 6.70 hrs, respectively. The present findings are also similar to Kumar et al. (2016) who found that the incidence of E. kerri started from the 15th Standard meteorological week and continued up to the 22nd Standard meteorological week with the highest population recorded in the 20th Standard meteorological week. The findings are also supported by Selvam et al. (2022) who noticed the highest leafhopper population (18.3/three leaves) on the 15th SMW of the summer crop, and the population afterwards decreased. The present findings are also similar to Sujatha and Bharpoda (2017) who observed that the population of jassids was from the 12th SMW and persisted till the 20th SMW during Summer and reached the first peak during the 14th SMW. In the subsequent week, the jassids population was reduced (15th SMW) and again started to build up and reached its second peak during 17th SMW.\r\nIncidence of Thrips (C. indicus). The data was recorded from the time of incidence of thrips to the time of maturity of the crop. The thrips population and meteorological data are presented in (Table1 and Fig.1). The incidence of thrips was noticed for the first time at 17th SMW (4.40 thrips per 10 flowers). The mean population of thrips showed its peak of (12.40 thrips per 10 flowers) during the 19th SWM when maximum, minimum temperature, relative humidity, rainfall, wind speed and sunshine were recorded 35.2°C and 23.9°C, 58.70%, 30.20mm, 5.40km per hrs, 6.70 hrs respectively. The minimum population was observed in standard week number 22nd (3.60 thrips per 10 flowers) during Summer 2021. During 22nd SMW maximum temperature 31.60°C and the minimum temperature 24.30°C whereas, whereas the relative humidity was 78.60%, rainfall 92.80mm, wind speed 4.30 km per hrs and sunshine 5.80 hrs. The present findings are in agreement with Hansda (2019) reported that the maximum number of thrips (15.3) was recorded in standard week number 18th. The minimum number of thrips 3.0 observed in standard week number 21st. The present findings are conformity with Selvam et al. (2022). The highest mean population of thrips (8.5 thrips/plant) was reported in the 15th SMW of the Summer crop, while the lowest population was recorded in the 19th SMW.\r\nIncidence of Spotted pod borer (M. vitrata). The data recorded on the larval population of M. vitrata at weekly intervals revealed that the larval population of spotted pod borer was the first time noticed at 17th SMW (1.40 larvae per plant) (Table 1 and Fig. 1). The highest population was recorded at 19th SMW (4.40 larvae per plant) and during this period maximum, minimum temperature, relative humidity, rainfall, wind speed, sunshine was 35.2°C, 23.9°C, 58.70%, 30.20mm, 5.40km per hrs., 6.70 hrs, respectively. The lowest larval population was recorded at 22nd SMW (0.60 larvae per plant) during Summer 2021. During 22nd SMW maximum temperature 31.60°C and the minimum temperature 24.30°C whereas, whereas the relative humidity was 78.60%, rainfall 92.80mm, wind speed 4.30 km per hrs and sunshine 5.80 hrs. The present findings are in agreement with Sujatha and Bharpoda (2017). The infestation commenced from 13th SMW (0.50 larva/ plant) and remained on the crop till 18th SMW. The highest larval population of M. vitrata was observed during 18th SMW. 1.40 larva per plant and gradually decreased in successive three weeks.\r\nRelationship of Insect pests with weather factors\r\nWhitefly (B. tabaci). The relationship between the population of whitefly and weather variables during Summer 2021 are presented in (Table 2). The population of B. tabaci had a significant positive correlation with maximum temperature (r= 0.806*) and a non-significant and positive correlation was found with wind speed (r= 0.246) and sunshine(r= 0.494). However, a negative and non-significant correlation was noticed with minimum temperature (r= -0.252), relative humidity (r= -0.235) and rainfall (r= -0.547). These findings are also supported by Selvam et al. (2022). The population of whiteflies was favorably with mean relative humidity and wind speed, and negatively correlated with rainfall, with other meteorological factors reporting a non-significant association with B. tabaci. The present findings are also similar to Singh and Kumar (2011) who revealed that the B. tabaci population exhibited a positive non-significant association with minimum temperature and relative humidity and a non-significant negative connection with rainfall. These findings are in agreement with Khaliq et al. (2022) reported that the connection between incidence and weather factors revealed that maximum temperature had a positive relationship (r = 0.51) while the minimum temperature and relative humidity- RH (morning) revealed a negative one (r = -0.03 and r = -0.52); and RH (evening).\r\nJassid (E. kerri). The correlation between the population of Jassid and weather parameters revealed that among all the weather parameters, only maximum temperature (r= 0.759*) showed a significant positive correlation with jassid and a non-significant and positive correlation was found between the jassid population and sunshine (r= 0.388) whereas, the negative and non-significant correlation observed between jassid population and minimum temperature ((r=-0.354), relative humidity (r= -0.185), wind speed (r=-0.058) and rainfall (r= -0.559) during Summer 2021 (Table 2). A similar trend was also reported by Singh et al. (2019) reported that the relationship between E. kerri population with minimum temperature (r=-0.621), relative humidity (r=-0.289) and rainfall showed a negative correlation (r=-0.425) (Table 2). The present findings are also similar to Selvam et al. (2022) reported that E. kerri negatively correlated with rainfall, wind speed and all abiotic variables showing a non-significant association.\r\nThrips (C. indicus). The incidence of thrips and the minimum temperature had a significant positive correlation (r=0.712*) whereas positive and non-significant correlation was observed between the population of thrips with relative humidity (r=0.437) wind speed (r=0.460), rainfall (r=0.097) (Table 2). A negative and non-significant correlation was observed between the population of thrips with maximum temperature (r=-0.073), and sunshine (r=-0.102). The present findings are similar to the finding of Kumar and Singh (2020) reported that the thrips population showed a positively significant association with minimum temperature whereas, non-significantly correlated with relative humidity. The population of thrips is non-significantly correlated with rainfall. A similar trend was also reported by Patel et al. (2010) reported a non-significant positive connection between all meteorological factors and thrips population.\r\nSpotted pod borer (M. vitrata). The larval population correlated to weather parameter data and revealed a positive non-significant connection with minimum temperature (r=0.464), maximum temperature (r=0.088), relative humidity (r=0.258), wind speed (r=0.650) and rainfall (r=0.066), whereas, a non-significant and negative correlation was found with sunshine (r=-0.041) during Summer 2021 (Table 2). The present findings are in agreement with Umbarkar et al. (2010) concluded that the larval population of M. vitrata showed a positive non-significant correlation with RH and minimum temperature on the green gram. The findings are also in conformity with Sravani et al. (2015) reported that pest population was significantly negatively correlated with maximum relative humidity.\r\n','Shivendra Pratap Singh, Sameer Kumar Singh and Umesh Chandra (2022). Incidence of Insect Pests on Summer Mungbean in Relation to Weather Parameters. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 14(3): 1492-1496.'),(5504,'136','Effect of Chemically induced Mutation on Yield Contributing and Seed quality Attribute in Pea (Pisum sativum L.)','Sneha Vinod Bansod, Jai Prakash Gupta, Binod Kumar Pandey and Sachin Rajesh Awachar','254 Effect of Chemically induced Mutation on Yield Contributing and Seed quality Attribute in Pea _Pisum sativum L._ Jai Prakash Gupta.pdf','',1,'Pea (Pisum sativum L.) is one of the important pulse crop in India, having chromosome number is 2n=24 and family is Leguminaceae. Peas are a valuable vegetable for vegetarians and fruits and seeds, both green and mature, are rich in starch, proteins. Mutation is the ultimate source creating variation and Breeder always want wider variability among population. Mutation breeding can improve the genotype. For improvement in the population variability is required, which can be created by various methods like hybridization, soma clonal variation, polyploidy. Mutation is also play an important role in creating variability. The present study was carried out to determine effect of chemically induced mutation on yield contributing and seed quality attribute in Pea (Pisum sativum L.) in M1 generation. Seed were pre-soaked in distilled water for 6hrs and later treated with different concentration w/v (0.1, 0.15, 0.20, 0.25) of Sodium Azide and Hydroxyl Amine respectively for 6hrs. The experiment was planted Randomized block design. Observation in M2 generation showed significant variation on the germination, root and shoot length, vigour index I and II, seedling dry weight, mortality, survival, primary secondary branches, days to first flowering, length of pod, number of pods per plant, seed test weight. Most of the parameters decreased with increase in concentration of Sodium Azide. The result of study showed that Sodium Azide 0.25 and 0.20 are more effective to induce variability in population. A significantly was observed effects on plant height, germination, days to first flowering and Days to first flowering. Sodium Azide is more effective as compared to the Hydroxyl Amine in inducing genetic variability.','Pea, Mutant, Sodium Azide, Hydroxyl Amine, S10, Variability','The variation in the morphological features in the M1 mutant, S10 is an indication that Sodium Azide is more effective as compared to the hydroxyl amine in inducing genetic variability in the quantitative trades generally, differences in concentration of the mutagen significantly affected most of the parameters evaluated in the given varieties. The result of study showed that Sodium Azide significant effect on plant height, germination and days to first flowering and Number of pod per plant. Therefore, induce mutation is highly effective in creating variability of desirable trade in Pea for further reading program. ','-','Sneha Vinod Bansod, Jai Prakash Gupta, Binod Kumar Pandeyand Sachin Rajesh Awachar (2022). Effect of Chemically induced Mutation on Yield Contributing and Seed quality Attribute in Pea (Pisum sativum L.). Biological Forum – An International Journal, 14(3): 1497-1500.'),(5505,'136','Influence of GA3 and ZnSO4 alone and in Combination on Fruit Drop, Yield and quality attributes of Mango (Mangifera indica L.)','Shubham Kumar, V.K. Tripathi and A.K. Dwivedi','255 Influence of GA3 and ZnSO4 alone and in Combination on Fruit Drop, Yield and quality attributes of Mango _Mangifera indica L._ V.K. Tripathi.pdf','',1,'An experiment was carried out to study the “Influence of GA3 and ZnSO4 alone and in combination on fruit drop, yield and quality attributes of mango (Mangifera indica L.)” in the garden, Department of Fruit Science, C.S. Azad University of Agriculture and Technology, Kanpur-208 002 (U.P.), India, during the year 2022. For this twelve-years-old, uniform in growth 27 plants of mango cv. Dashehari planted at 7 × 7 m apart were taken for experimentation work. There were nine treatments viz., two levels each of GA3 (20 and 40 ppm), ZnSO4 (0.5 and 1.0 %) alone and their combinations along with one control, replicated thrice in RBD were used for the present experimentation work. The recommended dose of fertilizers was applied in all treatments including control. The different doses of plant bio-regulator and mineral nutrient alone and in different combinations were sprayed on the tree at pea stage of fruit setting with a sprayer having a very fine nozzle. The foliar application of micronutrients along with plant bio-regulators plays an important role in manipulating many physiological phenomena, improving the yield and quality and enhanced the productivity of plants by fulfilling the nutritional needs of fruit crops. The utilization of boron helps in the movement of sugar and advances fruit bud formation. The spraying with the combination of GA3 (40 ppm) + ZnSO4 (0.5%) results in minimum fruit drop (83.74%) and maximum number of fruits per panicle (6.48), fruit retention (16.26%), fruit length (13.39 cm), width (9.48 cm), weight (254.35 g), volume (293.22 cc), fruit yield (60.36 kg/plant), specific gravity (1.18 g/cm3), fruit pulp (72.20%), total soluble solids (22.37ºBrix), total sugars (21.70 %), ascorbic acid (37.74 mg/100g pulp) with minimum percentage of titratable acidity (0.53 %), fruit peel (11.31%) and stone (16.49 %) under plains of central Uttar Pradesh.','Mango, GA3, ZnSO4, Fruit drop, Retention, Yield and Physio-chemical quality','From this experiment, it is can safely be concluded that the combination of GA3 (40 ppm) + ZnSO4 (0.5%) results in minimum fruit drop (83.74%) and maximum number of fruits per panicle (6.48), fruit retention (16.26%), fruit length (13.39 cm), width (9.48 cm), weight (254.35 g), volume (293.22 cc), fruit yield (60.36 kg/plant), specific gravity (1.18 g/cm3), fruit pulp (72.20%), total soluble solids (22.37ºBrix), total sugars (21.70 %), ascorbic acid (37.74 mg/100g pulp) with minimum percentage of titratable acidity (0.53 %), fruit peel (11.31%) and stone (16.49 %) under plains of central Uttar Pradesh.','-','Shubham Kumar, V.K. Tripathi and A.K. Dwivedi (2022). Influence of GA3 and ZnSO4 alone and in Combination on Fruit Drop, Yield and quality Attributes of Mango (Mangifera indica L.). Biological Forum – An International Journal, 14(3): 1501-1505.'),(5506,'136','Integrated Nutrient Management on Physiological, Yield and Quality Parameters of Chilli (Capsicum annuum L.) Genotypes','Amaravarapu Mallika, Deepak Kumar, Navdeep Singh, Vishal Gangwar, Veersain, Om Pal and Monisha Rawat','256 Integrated Nutrient Management on Physiological, Yield and Quality Parameters of Chilli _Capsicum annuum L._ Genotypes Deepak Kumar.pdf','',1,'The field experiment was conducted to study the integrated nutrient management on physiological yield and quality of chilli by using four different varieties. The experiment was laid in Split Plot Design with three replications five different treatments including different combinations of organic and inorganic fertilizers i.e. 100% RDF, 75% RDF + 25% vermicompost, 75% RDF + 25% vermicompost + VAM, 75% RDF + 25% vermicompost + Humic Acid, 75% RDF + 25% vermicompost + Azotobacter and four varieties of chilli were used i.e. VS455, SS841, Punjab Tej and Teja. By increasing the potential from all conceivable sources of inorganic, organic, and natural components in an integrated manner, Integrated Nutrient Management proposed to maintain soil fertility and plant nutrients at their most satisfying level for maintaining the preferred productivity. The main elements of INM include fertilizer, organic manures, legumes, agricultural leftovers, and bio fertilizers. The availability of nutrients is a crucial consideration when maximising output in any crop. According to the study, compared to other treatments, an integrated usage of 75% RDF + 25% vermicompost + VAM had the best yield (94.16 q/ha), chlorophyll index (58.84), and ascorbic acid (35.41 mg/100 g) were among the production and quality characteristics that were positively impacted by the treatment. Therefore, it can be said that VS455 and SS841 varieties responded better when integrated usage of 75% RDF + 25% vermicompost + VAM were used in terms of growth, yield, and quality.','Azotobacter, FYM, Humic Acid, vermicompost and VAM','On the basis of results obtained from the investigation it may be concluded that application of 75% RDF + 25% vermicompost + VAM increased the Chlorophyll Index, produced higher fruit yield and enhanced the quality of chilli. So, it may be concluded that VS455 and SS841 variety showed better response in terms of growth, yield and quality when integrated use of 75% RDF + 25% vermicompost + VAM were applied. It may be better option for the formers having adequate resources.','-','Amaravarapu Mallika, Deepak Kumar, Navdeep Singh, Vishal Gangwar, Veersain, Om Pal and Monisha Rawat (2022). Integrated nutrient management on physiological, yield and quality parameters of Chilli (Capsicum annuum L.) Genotypes. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 14(3): 1506-1511.'),(5507,'136','Knowledge of Farm Families on Millets in Selected Districts of Telangana State','A. Lalitha, R. Neela Rani, R. Geetha Reddy, T. Kamalaja and A. Meena','257 Knowledge of Farm Families on Millets in Selected Districts of Telangana State Lalitha.pdf','',1,'Millets are acceptable varieties to achieve food and nutritional security. Millets produced and consumed traditionally in India shown a decline in area and production except for pearl millet. These crops are getting extensive attention because of their health benefits and environment-friendly nature. The present study was surveyed on the availability and knowledge levels of farm families on millet utilization through media intervention, out of the total respondents, the majority (48.33%) of the respondents had two types of millets, i.e., finger millet and sorghum from Mahbubnagar and sorghum and pearl millet from Nalgonda district. More than half (83.00%) of the respondents were using store house to store their crop yield, before intervention knowledge on millet utilization in over all respondents belonged to low knowledge (83.00%) and after media intervention (88.67%) had high knowledge, the data indicated that in both districts the t-calculated value had positive knowledge levels among farm families after media intervention.','Millet, knowledge, nutritional security, food, pearl millet, media, intervention','Millets, also known as \"coarse grains\", are highly valued for both food and fibres purposes and are grown in the harshest climatic conditions such as scanty rainfall or infertile soil. They are resistant to both biotic and abiotic stress and can give a handsome amount of yield despite unfavourable climatic conditions. Millets are the super foods of the present and future .Today media interventions are mainly attracting attention, stimulating the interest and desire among farm families for further inquiries and information, improving knowledge, attitude, and utilisation of millets. Due to enhanced usage of technology and changes in the behaviour of society, further, the findings inferred that the video exposed on millet utilization acted as an intervening variable in changing and increasing the cognitive domain of respondents. The video exposed was satisfied with the overall visual quality and overall sound quality, the classification of content into different parts, the appropriate sequencing of the programme and the clarity of the picture. It is concluded that the video method of presentation is an audio-visual medium which involves a greater number of senses than the subjects, thereby reducing the monotony and thereby increasing the understanding of the difficult steps in an easier manner.','-','A. Lalitha, R. Neela Rani, R. Geetha Reddy, T. Kamalaja and A. Meena (2022). Knowledge of farm Families on Millets in Selected Districts of Telangana State. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 14(3): 1512-1517.'),(5508,'136','Impact of Rice Residue Management Practices and Fertilizer Levels on Nutrient Content and Biomass Production of Kharif Rice','G. Veena Madhuri, V. Sailaja, T. Venkata Sridhar, R. Lakshmipathy and A. Ashok Kumar','258 Impact of Rice Residue Management Practices and Fertilizer Levels on Nutrient Content and Biomass Production of Kharif Rice G. Veena Madhuri.pdf','',1,'The demand for a more sustainable management of agro-ecosystems in the context of climate change is increasing for meeting the needs of ever growing global population. The crop residue management is one of the important aspects under debate, since it represents the unneglectable quantity of organic matter which can be kept in or removed from the agro-ecosystem. Scientific curiosity in crop residue burning grew due to the emission of air pollutants, long range transport of air pollutants and deteriorating air quality and air, soil and environment. Therefore, it is important to look for sustainable solutions and technologies that can reduce the environmental footprint and add value by increasing the revenues of rice production systems.\r\nThe field experiment was conducted during the kharif season of 2021-2022 at the Agricultural College Farm, Bapatla, ANGRAU, Lam, Guntur, Andhra Pradesh to study the “Impact of rice residue management technologies and fertilizer levels on nutrient content and biomass production”. The experiment was laid out in split-plot design with the rice residue management practices, assigned to the main plots and fertilizer levels to sub plots. The main plot comprised four different rice residue management practices viz., Straw burning (M1), Straw incorporation (M2), Straw incorporation + FYM @ 5.0 t ha-1 (M3) and Straw incorporation + DI (decomposing inoculum) + FYM @ 5 t ha-1 (M4). Three fertilizer levels were applied to rice viz., 75% RDF (S1), 100% RDF (S2) and 125% RDF (S3), as sub plot treatments. Macronutrients content and total biomass production at harvest was significantly higher in the straw incorporation was done along with decomposing inoculum (DI) and FYM @ 5t ha-1 treatment. While, significantly lower nutrient content and total biomass production were obtained whenstraw was burnt. Among the fertilizer levels, the application of 125% RDF was significantly superior with highest nutrient content and total biomass production and lowest was observed in 75% RDF.\r\n','Rice residue management, Straw burning, straw incorporation, Decomposing Inoculum, fertilizer levels, nutrient content and total biomass','From the results of the present experiment conducted on kharif on direct seeded rice, the following broad conclusions can be drawn that the macronutrients content and total biomass production at harvest were significantly improved when Straw Incorporation + DI + FYM @ 5t ha-1 treatment. While, significantly lower nutrient contents and total biomass production were observed in Straw burning. Among the fertilizer levels, the application of 125% RDF treatment registered the highest nutrient content and total biomass production and lowest was observed in 75% RDF.','-','G. Veena Madhuri, V. Sailaja, T. Venkata Sridhar, R. Lakshmipathy and A. Ashok Kumar (2022). Impact of Rice Residue Management Practices and Fertilizer Levels on Nutrient Content and Biomass Production of Kharif Rice. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 14(3): 1518-1523.'),(5509,'136','Integrated Management of Stem Rot and Collar Rot Diseases of Groundnut incited by Aspergillus niger and Sclerotium rolfsii','V. Divya Rani, Hari Sudini, P. Narayan Reddy, G. Uma Devi and K. Vijay Krishna Kumar','259 Integrated Management of Stem Rot and Collar Rot Diseases of Groundnut incited by Aspergillus niger and Sclerotium rolfsii V. Divya Rani.pdf','',1,'Stem rot and collar rot are the major soil borne diseases incited by Sclerotium rofsii and Aspergillus niger causes significant economic losses in groundnut crop. Both the pathogen are soilborne in nature and once established it will survive in the soil for many years. The present study was taken to identify the eco-friendly management of these major soilborne diseases in groundnut crop. In the present study the soil microflora was isolated from the soil collected from the major groundnut growing areas of Andhra Pradesh and Telangana states. The isolated microflora was tested against stem rot and collar rot pathogens under in vitro condition by using dual culture plate technique. Based on in vitro studies the bioagents (fungal and bacterial) which are showing highest inhibition against stem rot and collar rot pathogens were used in management of stem rot and collar rot under field conditions. Field evaluation using effective bioagents MBNRT-1 (Trichodema harzianum) and MBNRB-3 (Bacillus amyloliquifaciens) along with standard fungicide indicated that, tebuconazole as seed treatment (ST) resulted in lowest collar rot incidence (4.56%). This is followed by seed treatment + soil application (SA) of MBNRT-1 (5.96%). Pod yields were significantly higher in seed treatment + soil application of MBNRT-1 treated plots when compare to other treatments. Similarly, in stem rot management experiment, seed treatment with tebuconazole resulted lowest disease incidence (15.47%), followed by seed treatment + soil application of MBNRT-1 (16.4%). Overall, our results revealed the scope of integrating the bioagents with fungicides in managing the collar rot and stem rot diseases in groundnut.','Collar rot, Groundnut, Management, Soilborne disease, Stem rot','Seed treatment with tebuconazole and seed treatment + soil application of bioagent Trichoderma harzianum (MBNRT-1) were recorded lowest incidence of stem rot and collar rot diseases in groundnut. Whereas, highest pod yields were observed with seed treatment + soil application of bioagent T. harzianum (MBNRT-1). Hence it was concluded that, seed treatment + soil application of bioagent T. harzianum (MBNRT-1) has not only reduced the disease incidence it also improved pod yields in groundnut.','-','V. Divya Rani, Hari Sudini, P. Narayan Reddy, G. Uma Devi and K. Vijay Krishna Kumar (2022). Integrated Management of Stem Rot and Collar Rot Diseases of Groundnut incited by Aspergillus niger and Sclerotium rolfsii. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 14(3): 1524-1530.'),(5510,'136','Influence of weather Parameters on the Seasonal Incidence of Mango Hopper, Idioscopus nitidulus Walker in Middle Gujarat','A.M. Baldaniya, N.B. Patel, Raghunandan, B.L. and Pavan, J.S.','260 Influence of weather Parameters on the Seasonal Incidence of Mango Hopper, Idioscopus nitidulus A.M. Baldaniya.pdf','',1,'To understand the impact of various climatic factors on the occurrence and abundance of hoppers infesting mango, a study was carried out at Horticulture Farm, B. A. College of Agriculture, Anand Agricultural University, Anand during the year 2021-22. The incidence of mango hopper started gradually increased from 40th to 45th SMW corresponding to the 1st week of October to 1st week of November. During 46th SMW, hopper population slightly decreased but again, the incidence started increasing from 0.64 hopper/panicle in the 3rd week of November (47th SMW) to 5.41 hoppers/panicle in 1st week of January (1st SMW), after which it decreased to 5.04 and increased 5.88 hoppers/panicle in 2nd and 4th week of January, respectively. Following that, the population continued to grow and eventually reached its peak (12.41 hoppers/panicle) during 4th week of March (13th SMW). Correlation analysis with various weather parameters indicated that there was highly significant correlation between evapotranspiration and hopper population, while bright sunshine hours had significant positive correlation with the population of mango hopper. The evening relative humidity had highly significant but, negative correlation with population of mango hoppers. Many workers have reported the population dynamics of mango hopper in different regions of Gujarat but information pertaining to specific species Idioscopus nitidulus is lacking. Hence, the study on various climatic factors on the occurrence and abundance of hoppers infesting mango was conducted. ','Mango hopper, population, Idioscopus nitidulus, SMW','The population of hoppers was found throughout the experimental period. The maximum population (12.41 hoppers/panicle) observed during 4th week of March (13th SMW). The correlation coefficient data reveled that evapotranspiration had highly significant and positive correlation and bright sunshine hours had significant positive correlation with the population of mango hopper. All this information, may be useful to develop region specific crop simulation dynamics models to predict and forecast the insect pest’s population so that mango growers/farmers can adopt the control measures well in advance to save the fruit crop being lost. Future research work must be done to make more accurate predictions in extremely variable temperatures even for a certain place, it is usually preferable to gather data from various geographic regions.','-','A.M. Baldaniya, N.B. Patel, Raghunandan, B.L. and Pavan, J.S. (2022). Influence of Weather Parameters on the Seasonal Incidence of Mango Hopper, Idioscopus nitidulus Walker in Middle Gujarat. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 14(3): 1531-1534.'),(5511,'136','Nutraceutical Rich Buckwheat upma Formulation for Nutrition Security','Latha Rani R., Kulkarni U.N. and Biradar S.','261 Nutraceutical Rich Buckwheat upma Formulation for Nutrition Security Latha Rani R.pdf','',1,'Buckwheat (Fagopyrum esculentum) an annual crop, is a pseudo cereal and member of polygonaceae family. Upma is a traditional Indian breakfast dish, cooked as a thick porridge from dry roasted semolina. Buckwheat varieties PRB-1, Nelagiri along with bread wheat variety as control were procured from Agricultural University, Dharwad. The buckwheat varieties were analyzed for nutraceutical content and utilization of buckwheat in upma. Buckwheat groats were cleaned and milled by scientific miller to obtain dehusked grain. Further grains made into semolina to develop buckwheat incorporated Upma. Upma was prepared from semolina with incorporation of buckwheat semolina at 25, 50, 75 and 100 per cent in bread wheat semolina. Buckwheat and bread wheat semolina were roasted. Seasoning was done along with cut vegetables and other ingredients. Two hundred ml of water added 100 gm of upma preparation. Contents were cooked for 8-10 min and 15 trained panel members for sensory parameters evaluated upma. Among the proximate composition Nelageri, variety semolina had highest fat (1.87), protein (18.78) and ash (3.66) g/100 g contents compare to control. Analysis of nutraceutical contents revealed that PRB-1 variety had significantly highest polyphenol (614.19 mg/100 g) and vit-E (54.53 µg/100 g). Total dietary fiber found to be highest in Nelagiri variety (14.44 g %). Sensory scores of upma with 25 per cent buckwheat semolina had significantly higher scores of appearance, color, flavor, taste; texture overall acceptability and acceptability index. Computed nutritive value of highly accepted 25 per cent buckwheat incorporated upma had protein, fat, crude fiber and minerals. This could be new product development from Buckwheat semolina, which contributes health benefits for general health and particular to celiac patients.','Upma, Buckwheat, Nelagiri, Nutraceutical, Sensory scores','Buckwheat semolina had better physical and functional characteristics and are gluten free. They were found to be rich in protein, carbohydrates, energy, micro and macro minerals and nutraceutical compared to bread wheat. The Nelagiri variety had better cooking quality and acceptability. Utilization of buckwheat @ 25 per cent in upma had better sensory scores and nutrient composition. Thus, the utilization of buckwheat can be promoted in different food products. Apart from this, the comparison data of buckwheat varieties with bread wheat is useful in convincing the farmers to produce neutracetically rich and highly acceptable buckwheat among wheat growing farmers.','-','Latha Rani R., Kulkarni U.N. and Biradar S. (2022). Nutraceutical Rich Buckwheat upma Formulation for Nutrition Security. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 14(3): 1535-1539.'),(5512,'146','Response of Select Mustard (Brassica juncea L.) Varieties to varying Irrigation Schedules based on IW/CPE Ratio','Shristi Singh, Deepak Kumar, Bhawana and G.L. Sharma','262 Response of Select Mustard _Brassica juncea L._ Varieties to Varying Irrigation Schedules Based on IWCPE Ratio Shristi Singh.pdf','',4,'The experimental trial conducted at research farm (Agronomy) of Pacific College of Agriculture, Udaipur, during the rabi season of 2018–19, a field experiment named \"Response of select mustard (Brassica juncea L.) cultivars to varied irrigation schedules based on IW/CPE ratios\" was carried out. The experiment was set up using a factorial randomized block design with three replications. The treatment included a mix of six types (PM-26, RH-749, RH-406, Pusa30, Girraj, and Bio 902) and three irrigation schedules (0.40, 0.60, and 0.80 IW/CPE ratio) placed in the main plot, resulting in eighteen treatment combinations. The findings demonstrated that types Bio 902 and Girraj considerably outgrew the other test kinds in terms of plant height. The variety Girraj generated noticeably the most main branches per plant, green leaves per plant, siliquae per plants, and seeds per siliqua. Girraj had a greater mean seed yield than the other types at 25.51 q ha-1. Over the other kinds, the Girraj variant has the highest oil content. In comparison to irrigation at IW/CPE ratios of 0.4 and 0.6, irrigation at IW/CPE ratio 0.8 considerably increased plant height at maturity, the number of green leaves per plant, and the number of branches per plant. Significant increase in the quantity of siliquae and seeds per plant. The highest seed production of 20.33 q ha-1 was recorded with an IW/CPE ratio of 0.8 as opposed to 0.4. Compared to IW/CPE ratios 0.4 and 0.6, irrigation at an IW/CPE ratio of 0.8 produced the oil content that was by far the greatest.','Variety, Irrigation, Treatment, Replication, Combination, Yield and oil Content','According to the findings of a field experiment titled \"Response of various mustard varieties (Brassica juncea L.) under varied irrigation regimens depending on IW/CPE ratio\" conducted during the 2018-19 rabi season, It can be concluded that using the mustard variety Girraj and applying irrigation at an IW/CPE ratio of 0.8 appears to be favourable for this agro-climatic zone IV A, since this treatment combination Girraj0.8 IW/CPE ratio produced the maximum seed yield of 26.95 q ha-1.','-','Shristi Singh, Deepak Kumar, Bhawana and G.L. Sharma (2022). Response of Select Mustard (Brassica juncea L.) Varieties to varying Irrigation Schedules based on IW/CPE Ratio. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 14(3): 1540-1545.'),(5513,'146','Influence of Pruning Severity and Biofertilizers on Flowering Attributes and Yield of Lemon [Citrus limon (L) Burm.] cv. Assam lemon under Foothills of Arunachal Pradesh','T.P. Rathour, P.K. Nimbolkar, L. Wangchu and Premaradhya N.','263 Influence of Pruning Severity and Biofertilizers on Flowering Attributes and Yield of Lemon [Citrus limon T.P. Rathour.pdf','',4,'The present study was conducted to known the response of pruning levels and biofertilizers on flowering attributes and yield of Assam lemon. The experiment was laid out in two factorial randomized block design with three levels of pruning, five levels of biofertilizers and their interaction. The investigation revealed that the pruning 50% length of shoot (P2) was found significantly superior over the control with respect to flowering parameters viz., days required for first flowering (321.93 days), number of flowers per shoot (94.03), duration of flowering (25.13 days) and fruit yield (3.05 kg/plant)and fruit yield (3.39 t/ha). The treatment B4 (Pseudomonas fluorescens @ 90g/plant + Trichoderma @ 90g/plant + Azotobacter @ 15g/plant) performed better with respect to days required for first flowering (315.22 days), number of flowers per shoot (71.44), duration of flowering (27.33 days) and fruit yield (4.10 t/ha). Among the interaction treatments of pruning and biofertilizers, the treatment (P2B4) 50 % pruned plants fed with Pseudomonas fluorescens @ 90g/plant + Trichoderma @ 90g/plant + Azotobacter @ 15g/plant was found significantly superior in response of days required for first flowering (322.33 days), number of flowers per shoot (104.5), duration of flowering (17.67 days) and fruit yield (4.45 t/ha) compare to all the treatment. It can be concluded that efficient management of pruning 50% length of shoot along with biofertilizers combination rather than sole is essential for increase the flowering and yield attributes of Assam lemon.','Assam lemon, Pruning levels, Biofertilizers, Flowering and Yield','In conclusion, the present result suggests that the efficient management of pruning along with biofertilizers in an efficient way would not only reduce the sole dependence on chemical fertilizers but also influence the flowering and fruiting of Assam lemon. Among several levels of pruning and biofertilizers application, high pruning (pruning 50% from the terminal portion of shoot) along with combinationof biofertilizers viz., PGPR-Pseudomonas fluorescens @ 90g/plant + Trichoderma @ 90g/plant + Azotobacter @ 15g/plant proved as best in terms of quality production of Assam lemon in this region.','-','T.P. Rathour, P.K. Nimbolkar, L. Wangchu and Premaradhya N. (2022). Influence of Pruning Severity and Biofertilizers on Flowering Attributes and Yield of Lemon [Citrus limon (L) Burm.] cv. Assam lemon under Foothills of Arunachal Pradesh. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 14(3): 1546-1550.'),(5514,'134','Working conditions of Women Agricultural Labourers in Cuttack District of Odisha','Smitashree Das and B.P. Mohapatra','103 Working conditions of Women Agricultural Labourers in Cuttack District of Odisha Smitashree Das.pdf','',1,'Agriculture plays a vital role as the backbone of a nation’s economy. Rural sectors of India completely depend upon agriculture as their basic livelihood. Here Women’s agricultural labour force plays the most important contribution to the farming of the nation. Women agricultural labourers are socially and financially the poorest section of society. Unemployment, illiteracy, under nutrition, dual responsibility, shortage of wage, lack of access to resources, indecisive behaviour, and lack of efficiency in handling technology are major drawbacks of women agricultural labourers which create major hindrances in their working conditions. This research explains their wage structure, major involvement both in farm and home, working hours in the field, and major challenges encountered by women agricultural labourers.\r\nHence to bring gender equity, reform gender equality, and provide equal rights to women agricultural labourers, there should be equal access to natural resources, agri-inputs, finance, technologies, equipment and knowledge. The purpose of this study was to measure the extent of production and non-production activities and to analyse the nature and extent of engagement of women agricultural labourers which directly or indirectly affect their working environment along with the problems encountered by women agricultural labourers. Multi stage random sampling technique was followed to select the sample for the study. A structured interview schedule has been prepared for data collection. The study was based upon both primary and secondary data. The primary data had been collected from 250 sample respondents. The secondary data had been collected from journals, books, articles, reports and websites. The data was analysed through SPSS software package and interpreted for result. This paper discovered underemployment, illiteracy and less access to the basic human surviving facilities is the major hurdles in growth of a female agricultural labourers’ life.\r\n','Women agricultural labourers, working conditions, problems','As India is the country of agriculture and women agricultural labourers are the largest contribution towards its production aspects, hence their working condition should properly analyzed and the several challenges and problems faced by them in their working environment should be encountered properly and timely. Almost half of the world’s agricultural workforce comprises of women. They are contributing from production to sale as well as preparation of food. Though traditionally role of women worker in agricultural was under-estimated. Women are working as paid labour or unpaid family member in agriculture in developing countries but they are still facing gender inequalities (Vetrivel & Manigandan 2013). This study found and concluded about their production and non-production activities, wage structure, working hours and challenges faced by the women agricultural labourers. It is concluded majority of respondents are contributing their major time in sowing, storage and land preparation in the field and in household function they are mostly involving in cooking, taking care of children and washing clothes and utensils, whereas most of them are daily wager. Mostly working in between 2-8 hours and they are quite dissatisfied about their shortage of wages as compared to their hard work. Kanagarathinam (2014) investigated that around 52% of unorganized workers are engaged in agriculture and allied sectors. Agricultural workers are disadvantages rural groups such as small, subsistence farmers, tenants & sharecroppers, the unemployed and the landless. They get very low and irregular wages, wage discrimination between male & females, no public holiday and no standard daily working hours. In addition, they have very poor working conditions, lack of dignity, seasonal unemployment and harassment issues. So they have to face a lot of challenges like unpaid work, wage discrimination, low wages, dual responsibility, rigid tradition, lack of training facilities, triple burden of work etc. Goswami (2013) concluded that poor women are contributing more to household income by working as a labour even under poor working conditions and with lower wages to improve the economic conditions of family. There were no land ownership amongst female and even they do not have any right on their earnings. It was also proved that in spite of having more shares of females as agricultural labour than men, they get lower wages than males.\r\nHence this paper discovers some emerging issues arising in working situation of women agricultural labourers. Underemployment, illiteracy and less access to the basic human surviving facilities is the major hurdles in growth of a female agricultural labourers’ life. Thresia (2004) pointed out some very important issues of women agricultural workers. The biggest issue was related to physical (abortion, stillbirths, and premature deliveries) and mental health because of the dual work burden, economic and social insecurity, poverty. In addition, they have gender discrimination in terms of proper education, employment and resources, which make them helpless and powerless with low self-esteem. Basic facilities like clean drinking water and 28 washroom facilities were also not available in spite of having long working hours with lower wage rates on farms. Therefore the Government should take interest in solving their problems and focus on implementation on beneficiaries’ schemes rather than only invention of new ones, so that women agricultural labourers will easily overcome from these obstacles and can lead a better life. The study shows that 94 per cent of the total women workers worked in the in formal sector in India. They have faced many problems like gender discrimination, low wages etc. their contribution in terms of income generation was less than male workers. This study suggested that women worker need economical and political support from government. New government measures are needed to the development of unorganized sector (Sharma, 2012). \r\n','-','Smitashree Das and B.P. Mohapatra (2022). Working conditions of Women Agricultural Labourers in Cuttack District of Odisha. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 14(2a): 618-622.'),(5515,'136','Response of Select Mustard (Brassica juncea L.) Varieties to varying Irrigation Schedules based on IW/CPE Ratio','Shristi Singh, Deepak Kumar, Bhawana and G.L. Sharma','262 Response of Select Mustard _Brassica juncea L._ Varieties to Varying Irrigation Schedules Based on IWCPE Ratio Shristi Singh.pdf','',4,'The experimental trial conducted at research farm (Agronomy) of Pacific College of Agriculture, Udaipur, during the rabi season of 2018–19, a field experiment named \"Response of select mustard (Brassica juncea L.) cultivars to varied irrigation schedules based on IW/CPE ratios\" was carried out. The experiment was set up using a factorial randomized block design with three replications. The treatment included a mix of six types (PM-26, RH-749, RH-406, Pusa30, Girraj, and Bio 902) and three irrigation schedules (0.40, 0.60, and 0.80 IW/CPE ratio) placed in the main plot, resulting in eighteen treatment combinations. The findings demonstrated that types Bio 902 and Girraj considerably outgrew the other test kinds in terms of plant height. The variety Girraj generated noticeably the most main branches per plant, green leaves per plant, siliquae per plants, and seeds per siliqua. Girraj had a greater mean seed yield than the other types at 25.51 q ha-1. Over the other kinds, the Girraj variant has the highest oil content. In comparison to irrigation at IW/CPE ratios of 0.4 and 0.6, irrigation at IW/CPE ratio 0.8 considerably increased plant height at maturity, the number of green leaves per plant, and the number of branches per plant. Significant increase in the quantity of siliquae and seeds per plant. The highest seed production of 20.33 q ha-1 was recorded with an IW/CPE ratio of 0.8 as opposed to 0.4. Compared to IW/CPE ratios 0.4 and 0.6, irrigation at an IW/CPE ratio of 0.8 produced the oil content that was by far the greatest.','Variety, Irrigation, Treatment, Replication, Combination, Yield and oil Content','According to the findings of a field experiment titled \"Response of various mustard varieties (Brassica juncea L.) under varied irrigation regimens depending on IW/CPE ratio\" conducted during the 2018-19 rabi season, It can be concluded that using the mustard variety Girraj and applying irrigation at an IW/CPE ratio of 0.8 appears to be favourable for this agro-climatic zone IV A, since this treatment combination Girraj0.8 IW/CPE ratio produced the maximum seed yield of 26.95 q ha-1.','-','Shristi Singh, Deepak Kumar, Bhawana and G.L. Sharma (2022). Response of Select Mustard (Brassica juncea L.) Varieties to varying Irrigation Schedules based on IW/CPE Ratio. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 14(3): 1540-1545.'),(5516,'136','Influence of Pruning Severity and Biofertilizers on Flowering Attributes and Yield of Lemon [Citrus limon (L) Burm.] cv. Assam lemon under Foothills of Arunachal Pradesh','T.P. Rathour, P.K. Nimbolkar, L. Wangchu and Premaradhya N.','263 Influence of Pruning Severity and Biofertilizers on Flowering Attributes and Yield of Lemon [Citrus limon T.P. Rathour.pdf','',4,'The present study was conducted to known the response of pruning levels and biofertilizers on flowering attributes and yield of Assam lemon. The experiment was laid out in two factorial randomized block design with three levels of pruning, five levels of biofertilizers and their interaction. The investigation revealed that the pruning 50% length of shoot (P2) was found significantly superior over the control with respect to flowering parameters viz., days required for first flowering (321.93 days), number of flowers per shoot (94.03), duration of flowering (25.13 days) and fruit yield (3.05 kg/plant)and fruit yield (3.39 t/ha). The treatment B4 (Pseudomonas fluorescens @ 90g/plant + Trichoderma @ 90g/plant + Azotobacter @ 15g/plant) performed better with respect to days required for first flowering (315.22 days), number of flowers per shoot (71.44), duration of flowering (27.33 days) and fruit yield (4.10 t/ha). Among the interaction treatments of pruning and biofertilizers, the treatment (P2B4) 50 % pruned plants fed with Pseudomonas fluorescens @ 90g/plant + Trichoderma @ 90g/plant + Azotobacter @ 15g/plant was found significantly superior in response of days required for first flowering (322.33 days), number of flowers per shoot (104.5), duration of flowering (17.67 days) and fruit yield (4.45 t/ha) compare to all the treatment. It can be concluded that efficient management of pruning 50% length of shoot along with biofertilizers combination rather than sole is essential for increase the flowering and yield attributes of Assam lemon.','Assam lemon, Pruning levels, Biofertilizers, Flowering and Yield','In conclusion, the present result suggests that the efficient management of pruning along with biofertilizers in an efficient way would not only reduce the sole dependence on chemical fertilizers but also influence the flowering and fruiting of Assam lemon. Among several levels of pruning and biofertilizers application, high pruning (pruning 50% from the terminal portion of shoot) along with combinationof biofertilizers viz., PGPR-Pseudomonas fluorescens @ 90g/plant + Trichoderma @ 90g/plant + Azotobacter @ 15g/plant proved as best in terms of quality production of Assam lemon in this region.','-','T.P. Rathour, P.K. Nimbolkar, L. Wangchu and Premaradhya N. (2022). Influence of Pruning Severity and Biofertilizers on Flowering Attributes and Yield of Lemon [Citrus limon (L) Burm.] cv. Assam lemon under Foothills of Arunachal Pradesh. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 14(3): 1546-1550.'),(5517,'136','Influence of Weather Health indices on Growth and Yield of Rabi sorghum','Madhurya D., Murthy V.R.K. and Sree Rekha M.','264 Influence of Weather Health indices on Growth and Yield of Rabi sorghum Madhurya D.pdf','',4,'In the era of climate change crops are subjected to wide extremities of climate which ultimately effecting the growth and yield. Adoption of suitable sowing window and suitable hybrid helps preventing the exposure to the weather vagaries without compromise in yields. A field experiment was conducted at Bapatla, Acharya NG Ranga Agricultural University, India during rabi 2017-18. The experiment was laid in factorial RBD replicated thrice with four dates of sowing (2nd fortnight of September, 1st fortnight of October, 2nd fortnight of October & 1st fortnight of November) and three hybrids of sorghum (CSH-14, MAHALAKSHMI and CSH-25). The results showed that 2nd fortnight of September (D1) recorded the higher grain yield (5198 kg ha-1), straw yield (9432kg ha-1), GDD, HTU, PTU and TPR. Among the hybrids MAHALAKSHMI reported higher grain yield (5162 kg ha-1), straw yield (9109 kg ha-1) and recorded higher GDD, HTU, PTU and TPR. Significant linear relationship was observed for grain yield of all the three hybrids with agroclimatic/weather health indices.','Sorghum, GDD, HTU, PTU, TPR','From the study it can be concluded that time of sowing and selection of a hybrid suitable for the season play a critical role in accumulation of heat units to bring out quality produce. Identification of the sowing window by thermal approach helps in mitigating the impact of climate change. Early sown crop has an advantage of optimizing the climate stress, while late sown may succumb to environmental disturbances. Sowing of rabi sorghum hybrid MAHALAKSHMI during 2nd fortnight of September recorded better yields by accumulating higher GDD, HTU, PTU and TPR.\r\nFuture study can be made on influence of weather indices on crops by developing a suitable meterological model and also step down regression analysis of the data helps in identifying the major factors effecting the growth and yield of crop. Adoption of green house gas estimation during the crop period is a thought full idea towards studying the climate change.\r\n','-','Madhurya D., Murthy V.R.K. and Sree Rekha M. (2022). Influence of Weather Health indices on Growth and Yield of Rabi sorghum. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 14(3): 1551-1557.'),(5518,'136','Management of Diversified Weed Flora in Dry Direct-Seeded Rice Using Herbicide under different Tillage in Rice-Yellow Sarson Crop sequence in Lateritic Belt of West Bengal','D.K. Jaiswal, B. Duary*, Bonthala Madhukar and Divya Jaiswal','265 Management of Diversified Weed Flora in Dry Direct-Seeded Rice Using Herbicide under different Tillage in Rice-Yellow Sarson D. K. Jaiswal.pdf','',4,'A field study was conducted during kharif 2019 and 2020 at the Agricultural Farm of the Palli Siksha Bhavana (Institute of Agriculture), Visva-Bharati, Sriniketan, Birbhum, West Bengal to evaluate the effect of tillage and herbicides on weed growth and the growth and productivity of rice in direct-seeded rice-yellow sarson crop sequence. Two tillage practices viz., zero and conventional tillage in main plot and eight weed management practices viz., oxadiargyl followed by (fb) bispyribac-sodium, penoxsulam + cyhalofop-butyl, oxadiargyl fb penoxsulam + cyhalofop-butyl, fenoxaprop-p-ethyl + ethoxysulfuron, oxadiargyl fb fenoxaprop-p-ethyl + ethoxysulfuron, pendimethalin fb bispyribac-sodium, weed free check and unweeded control in sub-plots were assigned in a split-plot design replicated thrice. The Results showed that the sequential application of herbicides oxadiargyl fb fenoxaprop-p-ethyl + ethoxysulfuron and oxadiargyl fb penoxsulam + cyhalofop-butyl registered 94.9-99.3% control over total weed biomass and also recorded the highest crop growth and biological yield of DSR.','Dry direct seeded rice, herbicide combination, tillage, weed management','Thus, based on two year of experiment it can be concluded that sequential application of oxadiargyl fb fenoxaprop-p-ethyl + ethoxysulfuron and oxadiargyl fb penoxsulam + cyhalofop-butyl under zero or conventional tillage may be recommended for effective management of complex weed flora and higher productivity of rice in direct-seeded rice-yellow sarson cropping sequence in lateritic soils of West Bengal.','-','D.K. Jaiswal, B. Duary, Bonthala Madhukar and Divya Jaiswal (2022). Management of Diversified Weed Flora in Dry Direct-Seeded Rice Using Herbicide under different Tillage in Rice-Yellow Sarson Crop sequence in Lateritic Belt of West Bengal. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 14(3): 1558-1561.'),(5519,'136','Management of Diversified Weed Flora in Dry Direct-Seeded Rice Using Herbicide under different Tillage in Rice-Yellow Sarson Crop sequence in Lateritic Belt of West Bengal','D.K. Jaiswal, B. Duary*, Bonthala Madhukar and Divya Jaiswal','265 Management of Diversified Weed Flora in Dry Direct-Seeded Rice Using Herbicide under different Tillage in Rice-Yellow Sarson D. K. Jaiswal.pdf','',4,'A field study was conducted during kharif 2019 and 2020 at the Agricultural Farm of the Palli Siksha Bhavana (Institute of Agriculture), Visva-Bharati, Sriniketan, Birbhum, West Bengal to evaluate the effect of tillage and herbicides on weed growth and the growth and productivity of rice in direct-seeded rice-yellow sarson crop sequence. Two tillage practices viz., zero and conventional tillage in main plot and eight weed management practices viz., oxadiargyl followed by (fb) bispyribac-sodium, penoxsulam + cyhalofop-butyl, oxadiargyl fb penoxsulam + cyhalofop-butyl, fenoxaprop-p-ethyl + ethoxysulfuron, oxadiargyl fb fenoxaprop-p-ethyl + ethoxysulfuron, pendimethalin fb bispyribac-sodium, weed free check and unweeded control in sub-plots were assigned in a split-plot design replicated thrice. The Results showed that the sequential application of herbicides oxadiargyl fb fenoxaprop-p-ethyl + ethoxysulfuron and oxadiargyl fb penoxsulam + cyhalofop-butyl registered 94.9-99.3% control over total weed biomass and also recorded the highest crop growth and biological yield of DSR.','Dry direct seeded rice, herbicide combination, tillage, weed management','Thus, based on two year of experiment it can be concluded that sequential application of oxadiargyl fb fenoxaprop-p-ethyl + ethoxysulfuron and oxadiargyl fb penoxsulam + cyhalofop-butyl under zero or conventional tillage may be recommended for effective management of complex weed flora and higher productivity of rice in direct-seeded rice-yellow sarson cropping sequence in lateritic soils of West Bengal.','-','D.K. Jaiswal, B. Duary, Bonthala Madhukar and Divya Jaiswal (2022). Management of Diversified Weed Flora in Dry Direct-Seeded Rice Using Herbicide under different Tillage in Rice-Yellow Sarson Crop sequence in Lateritic Belt of West Bengal. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 14(3): 1558-1561.'),(5520,'136','Energy Input-Output Analysis of Aggregatum Type Onion Cultivation in Karnataka State','A. Carolin Rathinakumari, G. Senthil Kumaran, Venu S.A. and Ashok Suraj B. S.','266 Energy Input-Output Analysis of Aggregatum Type Onion Cultivation in Karnataka State Carolin Rathinakumari.pdf','',4,'Energy input–output analysis in production and post–production agriculture is very important for developing efficient and sustainable crop production systems. Crop production is highly dependent on yielding varieties, chemicals, fertilizers, mechanization and other energy inputs. Onion (Allium cepa L.) is one of the most important commercial vegetable crop widely cultivated in India. Indian onions are broadly classified into three types viz., common onion, small common onion and aggregatum onion. Aggregatum type onion is widely used in Tamil Nadu and Kerala cuisine owing to its special flavour and pungency traits as well contributed significant nutritional value to the human diet as well medicinal value. This is widely grown in Southern states of India viz., Tamil Nadu, Karnataka and Andhra Pradesh, mainly by small and marginal farmers. A study was carried out to estimate and analyse the energy input-output of aggregatum type onion cultivation in Karnataka State. The farm operations for aggregatum onion cultivation are land preparation, planting, manure and fertilizer application, plant protection, irrigation, harvesting and detopping. The data was collected by survey through structured schedule and data was converted into respective energy equivalents. The energy parameters in terms of direct energy (included men, women, tractor, diesel and electricity), indirect energy (included seed, fertilizer, pesticide and machinery) and output energy were calculated. Fertilizer energy (11,911.49 MJ/ha) was the maximum utilized energy source followed by diesel (6,228.98 MJ/ha) and electricity (5,677.27 MJ/ha) contributing about 40%, 21% and 19% of input energy. Fertilizer application (12,051.07 MJ/ha) had the highest share of energy consuming farm operation followed by irrigation (5,901.53 MJ/ha) and land preparation (5,664,71 MJ/ha). Aggregatum type onion cultivation consumed 29,378.44 MJ/ha total input energy (out of which 53.22 % direct energy and 46.78 % indirect energy). The output energy was calculated as 25,095.20 MJ/ha with energy productivity of 0.54 kg/MJ., it was concluded that fertilizer was the highest utilized energy sources (40.54%) followed by diesel (21.20%) and electricity (19.32%). From the above study it was concluded that consumption of fertilizer, diesel and electricity should be optimizied. In case of fertilizer, use of liquid fertilizes, nano fertilizer and adoption of natural farming may be validated through research and then many be recommended to the onion growing farmers. By adopting E-tractor or E-prime movers for farm operations will lead to reduction in use of diesel consumption. Farmers should be encouraged to use solar powered water pumps in place of electrical pumps to reduce the electrical energy. Energy from farm women also contributes significantly as input energy source. Farm women are engaged in planting of onion bulbs, weeding, harvesting and detopping operations of onion cultivation operations. Machineries are available for onion bulb planting, harvesting and detopping need to be widely demonstrated to the onion growing farmers for adoption thus leading to reduction the input energy in onion cultivation. ','Aggregatum type onion, direct energy, indirect energy, energy input-output, energy productivity','A study was conducted at Gundlupet (Tk.) of Chamarajanagar (Dt.) of Karnataka to assess the energy utilization for aggregatum type onion cultivation. From the above study, the following conclusions were drawn:\r\nThe total input energy utilised for cultivation of aggregatum type onion was 29,378.44± 1904.05 MJ/ha and output energy was 25,095.20 ± 2651.08 MJ/ha with the energy ratio of 0.86±0.12. Energy utilized for fertilizer application was observed to be the highest as 40.54 per cent followed by irrigation (19.32%) and land preparation (18.67%). Further, when all the nine associated energy sources (direct sources: men, women, tractor, diesel and electricity, indirect sources: seed, fertilizer, pesticide and machinery) were considered which contributes for the above three farm operation in onion cultivation, it was concluded that fertilizer was the highest utilized energy sources (40.54%) followed by diesel (21.20%) and electricity (19.32%). By utilizing the fertilizer, diesel and electricity optimally, the energy ratio can further be increased as well reduction in inputs coupled with soil health. It was also clear that energy from farm women contributing significantly as input energy source. Farm women are engaged in planting of onion bulbs, weeding, harvesting and detopping operations of onion cultivation operations. Machineries are available for onion bulb planting, harvesting and detopping. These machinery need to be widely demonstrated to the onion growing farmers for adoption thus leading to reduction in input energy in onion cultivation. \r\n','-','A. Carolin Rathinakumari, G. Senthil Kumaran, Venu S.A. and Ashok Suraj B. S. (2022). Energy Input-Output Analysis of Aggregatum Type Onion Cultivation in Karnataka State. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 14(3): 1562-1567.'),(5521,'136','A Study on effectiveness of mKisan portal in providing Agricultural information in Telangana State','V. Preethi, K. Aruna and M. Jagan Mohan Reddy','267 A Study on effectiveness of mKisan portal in providing Agricultural information in Telangana State V. Preethi.pdf','',4,'The growing popularity, access, use of mobile phone technology and it’s penetration in all the sectors of the population in India give a unique opportunity in ICT mediated extension for development of mobile phone based agro-advisory systems. There is evidence of high use of mobile phones by seeing the TRAI reports. As the mKisan portal was providing advisories through SMS messaging which does not require any internet connection or a smartphone which include major reasons for effective utilization of mKisan services by small and marginal farmers. Ex-post facto research design was followed for the study. The state of Telangana was chosen for the studywith a sample size of 120 respondents. To study the effectiveness of mKisan portal in providing Agricultural information Index was developed for the study by selecting six indicators. The results shown that more than half of the respondents perceived that mKisan portal was effective in providing agricultural information.','Effectiveness, index, indicators','From the above results it can be concluded that farmers perceived the information provided through mKisan portal was effective and useful to them in practicing Agriculture. It helping them to adopt new technologies and best agricultural practices. The content of messages should be provided based on farmer’s needs and local availability. The information was timely on agricultural practices. As there was low comprehensiveness of information provided through messages, the farmers suggested that there should be more information regarding market prices, farm mechanization, biofertilizers, organic farming practices, drying and storage activities. Provide information on available inputs in local markets. Create awareness on importance of mKisan portal through KVKs, FPOs to the farmers.','-','V. Preethi, K. Aruna and M. Jagan Mohan Reddy (2022). A Study on effectiveness of mKisan portal in providing Agricultural information in Telangana State. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 14(3): 1568-1570.'),(5522,'136','Studies on Leaf Spot of Pomegranate (Punica granatum L.) caused by Cercospora punicae Henn.','Shilpa*, Somasekhara Y.M. Mahesh M. and Ravichandra','268 Studies on Leaf Spot of Pomegranate _Punica granatum L._ caused by Cercospora punicae Henn. Ravichandra.pdf','',4,'Pomegranate is a commercially growing fruit crop affected by several diseases of which leaf spot is an important disease hindering productivity. The objective of this study was Isolation, identification, cultural and Physiological characteristics of the C. punicae.C. punicae was isolated from typical lesions on leaf by standard tissue culture technique and single spore isolation technique after that, identified as Cercospora punicae by comparing with original descriptions. Pathogenicity was established by proving Koch’s postulates. Cultural studies revealed that among different culture media, highest radial growth (90.00mm)was observed on potato dextrose agar (PDA) followed by oat meal agar (OMA, 89.66 mm),while profuse sporulation was observed on oat meal agar and also found sexual perithecium fruiting bodies of Mycospherella punicae along with ascospores on corn meal agar. The conidia are colourless, straight, needle shape with multiseptate, obclavate. Physiological studies revealed that 25°C was best temperature with pH 6.0 was best for the growth and sporulation of C. punicae. At temperature of 30°C with highest radial growth (79.33 mm) and dry mycelial weight (283.23 mg) was recorded and good sporulation at 25 °C was noticed. Optimum pH for the growth of pathogen is 6.5 to 7.0.','Leaf spot, pomegranate, Cercospora punicae','This studies revealed that leaf spot of pomegranate plant disease was caused by Cercospora punicae. The pathogen has well grown at temperature of 25°C and oat meal agar (OMA) was the best media for sporulation.','-','Shilpa, Somasekhara Y.M. Mahesh M. and Ravichandra (2022). Studies on Leaf Spot of Pomegranate (Punica granatum L.) caused by Cercospora punicae Henn.. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 14(3): 1571-1576.'),(5523,'136','Eco-Friendly Management of Major insect Pests of Mustard (Brassica juncea L.)','Vinyas S.N., Neharkar P.S. and Matre Y.B.','269 Eco-Friendly Management of Major insect Pests of Mustard _Brassica juncea L._ Neharkar P.pdf','',4,'The field trial was conducted to evaluate the effect of different biopesticides against major insect pests of mustard at research farm of Department of Agricultural Entomology, College of Agriculture, Vasantrao Naik Marathwada Krishi Vidyapeeth, Parbhani, Maharashtra, India. The results revealed that Azadirachtin 10000 ppm, Beauveria bassiana, Lecanicillium lecanii and NSKE could be the best combination of treatments in management of major insect pests of mustard as Azadirachtin 10000 ppm and Beauveria bassiana had a superior control over aphids and larval populations, respectively and both were aptly assisted by Lecanicillium lecanii and NSKE. Considering the economics of treatments, Azadirachtin 10000 ppm (1:16.97) and Beauveria bassiana (1:13.50) were found more economical than other treatments.','Biopesticides, Azadirachtin 10000 ppm, Beauveria bassiana, mustard etc','The results shown that Azadirachtin 10000 ppm assisted by Lecanicillium lecanii had better control over aphids whereas Beauveria bassiana followed by Lecanicillium lecanii had superiority in controlling the leaf webber and sawfly population. Both these materials are supported by NSKE. One can here clearly sees the best combination of treatments in managing the major insect pests by eco-friendly method. When it comes to the economics of treatments, Azadirachtin 10000 ppm (1:16.97) and Beauveria bassiana (1:13.50) were found more economical. As the world is concerned about climate change, global warming and environment pollution, we as an agriculture scientists need to look for alternative methods to conventional chemical applications. More of experiments are needed to evaluate these treatment materials in oil seed crops.\r\n FUTURE SCOPE\r\n1 Studies may provide information on eco-friendly or use of bio-pesticides for management of major insect pests of mustard \r\n2. More studies should be conducted at different region to find out the suitable bio-pesticides and eco-friendly management of major pests of mustard in Marathwada region.\r\n','-','Vinyas S.N., Neharkar P.S. and Matre Y.B. (2022). Eco-Friendly Management of Major insect Pests of Mustard (Brassica juncea L.). Biological Forum – An International Journal, 14(3): 1577-1581.'),(5524,'136','Integrated management of Sorghum ergot Disease caused by C. sorghi','Sudha A. and Rajesh M.','270 Integrated management of Sorghum ergot Disease caused by C. sorghi Sudha A.pdf','',4,'Ergot can irreparably damage sorghum nurseries and genetic stock. Disease-related damages in South Africa and India are 10–80%. This pathogen causes severe yield loss in hybrid seed production of sorghum. This study was planned to have disease management practices, by studying the characteristics of pathogen, through biological agents. C. sorghi\'s sphacelia or sclerotia were barely visible in honeydew. Physical characteristics helped identify C. sorghi. Mycelium forms micro, macro, and secondary conidia. Microconidia were hyaline aseptate and 2.5–5 m in diameter. Macro conidia were hyaline, aseptate, rectangular to oval, 13133.7 to 14127.5 m dia, and constricted in the centre. C. sorghi (MW281790) was identified as the disease\'s causal agent. Seven fungicides were tested in vitro at 0.0.05, 0.075, and 0.1% against C. sorghi. Mycelial growth was inhibited most by carboxin 37.5% + thiram 37.5% WS at 0.05%, followed by tebuconazole 25.9% EC (0.1%) (90.63%). Bacillus subtilis (EPC 5), one of six bioagents studied in vitro employing dual culture, inhibited mycelial growth by 56.87%. In 2019–20, a pot culture was started after the in vitro investigation. Spraying 25.9% EC (0.1%) tebuconazole reduced incidence to 9.99% and increased grain yield to 2009 kg/ha compared to 1278 kg/ha for the control. Spraying tebuconazole 25.9% EC (0.1%) @ 1ml/l resulted in a minimum incidence of 13.34% and a benefit–cost ratio of 1.71 in a 2020–2021 field investigation.','Ergot, sclerotia, bioagents, fungicides','Even though there haven\'t been many studies on the pathogen and treatment of the disease, there isn\'t much data available on biological and chemical management studies or disease severity. Therefore, it is necessary to thoroughly research each of these factors in order to advise farmers on an efficient management approach and the fundamentals of the disease.','-','Sudha A. and Rajesh M. (2022). Integrated management of Sorghum ergot Disease caused by C. sorghi. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 14(3): 1582-1588.'),(5525,'146','Genome Editing in Fruit Crops – A Review','Anju Jayachandran, Shikha Jain, Shikha Saini, Poonam Maurya, Shubham Jagga, Kuldeep Kumar Shukla and Bhargav Kiran','1 Genome Editing in Fruit Crops – A Review Shikha Jain.pdf','',1,'Conventional fruit and fruit tree breeding has improved consumer-driven traits like fruit size, yield, nutritional value, scent, and flavour while also introducing agronomic features like disease resistance. However, because of the long juvenility, genetic improvement through conventional breeding has been slow. Genome editing, a novel genetic improvement tool that can greatly accelerate the development of perennial crops, has been made possible by advancement in genomics and molecular biology. This article describes genome editing technologies, including CRISPR-C as system-based genome editing, and various applications of them in enhancing fruit crops. In addition, base editing, a more precise editing technique that has recently been emerged for enhancing fruit and nut crops will also be discussed. ','genome editing, fruit crops, CRISPR/Cas 9, applications','Genome editing provides a wide range of potential for crop improvement, particularly fruit and nut trees, that are challenging to improve using traditional breeding techniques because they provide accurate, effective and more rapid genetic changes. Genome editing offers to hasten the breeding of fruit and nut crops, which is particularly necessary to fulfill the rising global demand under changing climate with less growth resources. CRISPR/Cas system have now been utilized mostly for gene knockdown experiments in fruit and nut crops. CRISPR/Cas 9 has the capacity to make specific changes to genes of interest.\r\nGenome editing will eventually be expanded to target a wide range of genes in order to produce fruit and nut crops with improved production and quality. Additionally, genome editing permits the direct incorporation of introducing new or enhanced traits into popular cultivars that are lacking in one or more, without altering their other characteristics. Crop varieties\' wild ancestors have advantageous traits such the capacity to endure biotic and abiotic stressors, improvement in fruit quality, etc. Wild species are thus possible sources for genome editing. The lines produced by genome editing methods can be used directly as a new variety in industrial production or as pre-breeding stock in breeding programmes. Thus, with the development of genome editing, it is now possible to develop superior fruit and nut crops more quickly and with lower danger of off-target impacts.\r\n','-','Anju Jayachandran, Shikha Jain, Shikha Saini, Poonam Maurya, Shubham Jagga, Kuldeep Kumar Shukla and Bhargav Kiran (2022). Genome Editing in Fruit Crops – A Review. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 14(4): 01-06.'),(5526,'146','Varietal Screening against Major insect Pests of Mustard (Brassica juncea L.)','Vinyas S.N., Neharkar P.S., Bantewad S.D. and Matre Y.B.','2 Varietal Screening against Major insect Pests of Mustard _Brassica juncea L._ Neharkar P.pdf','',1,'The experiment was conducted at research farm of Department of Agricultural Entomology, College of Agriculture, Vasantrao Naik Marathwada Krishi Vidyapeeth, Parbhani, Maharashtra, India. during Rabi season 2020-21. Ten different varieties of mustard were screened for resistance/susceptibility against major insect pests of mustard under field conditions results unfolded that variety Giriraj could be an auspicious source of resistant against major insect pests of mustard, however, in specific, PM-26, PM-28 and Giriraj had better control over leaf webber Crocidolomia binotalis (Zeller), mustard sawfly Athalia lugens proxima (Klug) and aphids Liphapis erysimi (Kalt.), respectively. NRCHB-101, RH-74944 and ACN-09 were deemed to be susceptible cultivars against major insect pests of mustard. Mean population of mustard aphid, leaf webber and saw fly on different varieties were in the range of 6.32 to 14.08 aphids / 5 cm terminal shoot, 0.18 to 1.23 larvae / plant and 0.18 to 1.08 larvae / plant, accordingly. ','Major insect pests, Liphapis erysimi, Crocidolomia binotalis, Athalia lugens proxima, mustard, varieties, screening, mean population','The outcomes of the current study exhibited that having Giriraj variety in mustard cultivation could be a greater advantage against major insect pests’ infestation among the subjected cultivars. When it comes to the individual pest suppressing, varieties Giriraj, PM-26 and PM-28 displayed relatively high resistance against aphid, leaf webber and saw flies, respectively. NRCHB-101, RH-74944 and ACN-09 were appeared to be vulnerable to pest attacks. All other remaining varieties fell in intermediate positions. Employing varietal resistance in crop production aids in higher production of mustard along with reducing the use of hazardous chemical pesticides and intern environmentally friendly. ','-','Vinyas S.N., Neharkar P.S., Bantewad S.D. and Matre Y.B. (2022). Varietal Screening against Major insect Pests of Mustard (Brassica juncea L.). Biological Forum – An International Journal, 14(4): 07-10.'),(5527,'146','Ready to Reconstitute and Instant Mix of Indian Traditional Food Products','Ulpa Patel, Navneet Kumar and Chirag S. Matholiya','3 Ready to Reconstitute and Instant Mix of Indian Traditional Food Products Ulpa Patel.pdf','',1,'One of the basic needs of human beings is food. It is necessary for both healthy growth and the regular operation of the body\'s organs. Due to their convenience, affordability, appealing look, flavour, and texture, instant mixes and ready-to-reconstitute (RTR) foods are becoming more and more popular. Indians frequently believe that packaged, RTR, and instant-mix foods include a lot of salt, sugar, and fat. They avoid consuming such things due to these beliefs. So, the present study aimed to illustrate the variation of factors affecting traditional instant mixes and RTR food preferences and to provide a broad review of the variables influencing instant mixes and RTR food selection as well as the actual decision-making process involved in food preference and selection. Fermented and non-fermented dessert instant mixes and ready-to-reconstitute food products based on different fortification of cereals, pulses, and vegetables are discussed in this literature.','Traditional food, Ready-to-Reconstitute, Instant Mix, Physical-chemical Properties','With so many fast food options accessible in the market, modern people have adjusted their lifestyles and behaviors toward instant mixes and RTR food products. They react to foods that are both fresh and simple to prepare. This study concluded that cereals, pulses and vegetables are major category of food which used for making instant mixes and RTR foods. To produce wholesome and high-quality ready meals, different innovations and technologies are used. These types of food are healthy, convenient and also considered as therapeutic food for health conscious peoples.','-','Ulpa Patel, Navneet Kumar and Chirag S. Matholiya (2022). Ready to Reconstitute and Instant Mix of Indian Traditional Food Products. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 14(4): 11-18.'),(5528,'136','Response of Select Mustard (Brassica juncea L.) Varieties to varying Irrigation Schedules based on IW/CPE Ratio','Shristi Singh, Deepak Kumar, Bhawana and G.L. Sharma','262 Response of Select Mustard _Brassica juncea L._ Varieties to Varying Irrigation Schedules Based on IWCPE Ratio Shristi Singh.pdf','',1,'The experimental trial conducted at research farm (Agronomy) of Pacific College of Agriculture, Udaipur, during the rabi season of 2018–19, a field experiment named \"Response of select mustard (Brassica juncea L.) cultivars to varied irrigation schedules based on IW/CPE ratios\" was carried out. The experiment was set up using a factorial randomized block design with three replications. The treatment included a mix of six types (PM-26, RH-749, RH-406, Pusa30, Girraj, and Bio 902) and three irrigation schedules (0.40, 0.60, and 0.80 IW/CPE ratio) placed in the main plot, resulting in eighteen treatment combinations. The findings demonstrated that types Bio 902 and Girraj considerably outgrew the other test kinds in terms of plant height. The variety Girraj generated noticeably the most main branches per plant, green leaves per plant, siliquae per plants, and seeds per siliqua. Girraj had a greater mean seed yield than the other types at 25.51 q ha-1. Over the other kinds, the Girraj variant has the highest oil content. In comparison to irrigation at IW/CPE ratios of 0.4 and 0.6, irrigation at IW/CPE ratio 0.8 considerably increased plant height at maturity, the number of green leaves per plant, and the number of branches per plant. Significant increase in the quantity of siliquae and seeds per plant. The highest seed production of 20.33 q ha-1 was recorded with an IW/CPE ratio of 0.8 as opposed to 0.4. Compared to IW/CPE ratios 0.4 and 0.6, irrigation at an IW/CPE ratio of 0.8 produced the oil content that was by far the greatest.','Variety, Irrigation, Treatment, Replication, Combination, Yield and oil Content.','According to the findings of a field experiment titled \"Response of various mustard varieties (Brassica juncea L.) under varied irrigation regimens depending on IW/CPE ratio\" conducted during the 2018-19 rabi season, It can be concluded that using the mustard variety Girraj and applying irrigation at an IW/CPE ratio of 0.8 appears to be favourable for this agro-climatic zone IV A, since this treatment combination Girraj0.8 IW/CPE ratio produced the maximum seed yield of 26.95 q ha-1.','-','Shristi Singh, Deepak Kumar, Bhawana and G.L. Sharma (2022). Response of Select Mustard (Brassica juncea L.) Varieties to varying Irrigation Schedules based on IW/CPE Ratio. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 14(3): 1540-1545.'),(5529,'136','Influence of Pruning Severity and Biofertilizers on Flowering Attributes and Yield of Lemon [Citrus limon (L) Burm.] cv. Assam lemon under Foothills of Arunachal Pradesh','T.P. Rathour, P.K. Nimbolkar, L. Wangchu and Premaradhya N.','263 Influence of Pruning Severity and Biofertilizers on Flowering Attributes and Yield of Lemon [Citrus limon T.P. Rathour.pdf','',1,'The present study was conducted to known the response of pruning levels and biofertilizers on flowering attributes and yield of Assam lemon. The experiment was laid out in two factorial randomized block design with three levels of pruning, five levels of biofertilizers and their interaction. The investigation revealed that the pruning 50% length of shoot (P2) was found significantly superior over the control with respect to flowering parameters viz., days required for first flowering (321.93 days), number of flowers per shoot (94.03), duration of flowering (25.13 days) and fruit yield (3.05 kg/plant)and fruit yield (3.39 t/ha). The treatment B4 (Pseudomonas fluorescens @ 90g/plant + Trichoderma @ 90g/plant + Azotobacter @ 15g/plant) performed better with respect to days required for first flowering (315.22 days), number of flowers per shoot (71.44), duration of flowering (27.33 days) and fruit yield (4.10 t/ha). Among the interaction treatments of pruning and biofertilizers, the treatment (P2B4) 50 % pruned plants fed with Pseudomonas fluorescens @ 90g/plant + Trichoderma @ 90g/plant + Azotobacter @ 15g/plant was found significantly superior in response of days required for first flowering (322.33 days), number of flowers per shoot (104.5), duration of flowering (17.67 days) and fruit yield (4.45 t/ha) compare to all the treatment. It can be concluded that efficient management of pruning 50% length of shoot along with biofertilizers combination rather than sole is essential for increase the flowering and yield attributes of Assam lemon.','Assam lemon, Pruning levels, Biofertilizers, Flowering and Yield.','In conclusion, the present result suggests that the efficient management of pruning along with biofertilizers in an efficient way would not only reduce the sole dependence on chemical fertilizers but also influence the flowering and fruiting of Assam lemon. Among several levels of pruning and biofertilizers application, high pruning (pruning 50% from the terminal portion of shoot) along with combinationof biofertilizers viz., PGPR-Pseudomonas fluorescens @ 90g/plant + Trichoderma @ 90g/plant + Azotobacter @ 15g/plant proved as best in terms of quality production of Assam lemon in this region.','-','T.P. Rathour, P.K. Nimbolkar, L. Wangchu and Premaradhya N. (2022). Influence of Pruning Severity and Biofertilizers on Flowering Attributes and Yield of Lemon [Citrus limon (L) Burm.] cv. Assam lemon under Foothills of Arunachal Pradesh. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 14(3): 1546-1550.'),(5530,'136','Influence of Weather Health indices on Growth and Yield of Rabi sorghum','Madhurya D., Murthy V.R.K. and Sree Rekha M.','264 Influence of Weather Health indices on Growth and Yield of Rabi sorghum Madhurya D.pdf','',1,'In the era of climate change crops are subjected to wide extremities of climate which ultimately effecting the growth and yield. Adoption of suitable sowing window and suitable hybrid helps preventing the exposure to the weather vagaries without compromise in yields. A field experiment was conducted at Bapatla, Acharya NG Ranga Agricultural University, India during rabi 2017-18. The experiment was laid in factorial RBD replicated thrice with four dates of sowing (2nd fortnight of September, 1st fortnight of October, 2nd fortnight of October & 1st fortnight of November) and three hybrids of sorghum (CSH-14, MAHALAKSHMI and CSH-25). The results showed that 2nd fortnight of September (D1) recorded the higher grain yield (5198 kg ha-1), straw yield (9432kg ha-1), GDD, HTU, PTU and TPR. Among the hybrids MAHALAKSHMI reported higher grain yield (5162 kg ha-1), straw yield (9109 kg ha-1) and recorded higher GDD, HTU, PTU and TPR. Significant linear relationship was observed for grain yield of all the three hybrids with agroclimatic/weather health indices.','Sorghum, GDD, HTU, PTU, TPR.','From the study it can be concluded that time of sowing and selection of a hybrid suitable for the season play a critical role in accumulation of heat units to bring out quality produce. Identification of the sowing window by thermal approach helps in mitigating the impact of climate change. Early sown crop has an advantage of optimizing the climate stress, while late sown may succumb to environmental disturbances. Sowing of rabi sorghum hybrid MAHALAKSHMI during 2nd fortnight of September recorded better yields by accumulating higher GDD, HTU, PTU and TPR.\r\nFuture study can be made on influence of weather indices on crops by developing a suitable meterological model and also step down regression analysis of the data helps in identifying the major factors effecting the growth and yield of crop. Adoption of green house gas estimation during the crop period is a thought full idea towards studying the climate change.\r\n','-','Madhurya D., Murthy V.R.K. and Sree Rekha M. (2022). Influence of Weather Health indices on Growth and Yield of Rabi sorghum. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 14(3): 1551-1557.'),(5531,'136','Management of Diversified Weed Flora in Dry Direct-Seeded Rice Using Herbicide under different Tillage in Rice-Yellow Sarson Crop sequence in Lateritic Belt of West Bengal','D.K. Jaiswal, B. Duary*, Bonthala Madhukar and Divya Jaiswal','265 Management of Diversified Weed Flora in Dry Direct-Seeded Rice Using Herbicide under different Tillage in Rice-Yellow Sarson D. K. Jaiswal.pdf','',1,'A field study was conducted during kharif 2019 and 2020 at the Agricultural Farm of the Palli Siksha Bhavana (Institute of Agriculture), Visva-Bharati, Sriniketan, Birbhum, West Bengal to evaluate the effect of tillage and herbicides on weed growth and the growth and productivity of rice in direct-seeded rice-yellow sarson crop sequence. Two tillage practices viz., zero and conventional tillage in main plot and eight weed management practices viz., oxadiargyl followed by (fb) bispyribac-sodium, penoxsulam + cyhalofop-butyl, oxadiargyl fb penoxsulam + cyhalofop-butyl, fenoxaprop-p-ethyl + ethoxysulfuron, oxadiargyl fb fenoxaprop-p-ethyl + ethoxysulfuron, pendimethalin fb bispyribac-sodium, weed free check and unweeded control in sub-plots were assigned in a split-plot design replicated thrice. The Results showed that the sequential application of herbicides oxadiargyl fb fenoxaprop-p-ethyl + ethoxysulfuron and oxadiargyl fb penoxsulam + cyhalofop-butyl registered 94.9-99.3% control over total weed biomass and also recorded the highest crop growth and biological yield of DSR.','Dry direct seeded rice, herbicide combination, tillage, weed management.','Thus, based on two year of experiment it can be concluded that sequential application of oxadiargyl fb fenoxaprop-p-ethyl + ethoxysulfuron and oxadiargyl fb penoxsulam + cyhalofop-butyl under zero or conventional tillage may be recommended for effective management of complex weed flora and higher productivity of rice in direct-seeded rice-yellow sarson cropping sequence in lateritic soils of West Bengal.','-','D.K. Jaiswal, B. Duary, Bonthala Madhukar and Divya Jaiswal (2022). Management of Diversified Weed Flora in Dry Direct-Seeded Rice Using Herbicide under different Tillage in Rice-Yellow Sarson Crop sequence in Lateritic Belt of West Bengal. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 14(3): 1558-1561'),(5532,'136','Energy Input-Output Analysis of Aggregatum Type Onion Cultivation in Karnataka State','A. Carolin Rathinakumari, G. Senthil Kumaran, Venu S.A. and Ashok Suraj B. S.','266 Energy Input-Output Analysis of Aggregatum Type Onion Cultivation in Karnataka State Carolin Rathinakumari.pdf','',1,'Energy input–output analysis in production and post–production agriculture is very important for developing efficient and sustainable crop production systems. Crop production is highly dependent on yielding varieties, chemicals, fertilizers, mechanization and other energy inputs. Onion (Allium cepa L.) is one of the most important commercial vegetable crop widely cultivated in India. Indian onions are broadly classified into three types viz., common onion, small common onion and aggregatum onion. Aggregatum type onion is widely used in Tamil Nadu and Kerala cuisine owing to its special flavour and pungency traits as well contributed significant nutritional value to the human diet as well medicinal value. This is widely grown in Southern states of India viz., Tamil Nadu, Karnataka and Andhra Pradesh, mainly by small and marginal farmers. A study was carried out to estimate and analyse the energy input-output of aggregatum type onion cultivation in Karnataka State. The farm operations for aggregatum onion cultivation are land preparation, planting, manure and fertilizer application, plant protection, irrigation, harvesting and detopping. The data was collected by survey through structured schedule and data was converted into respective energy equivalents. The energy parameters in terms of direct energy (included men, women, tractor, diesel and electricity), indirect energy (included seed, fertilizer, pesticide and machinery) and output energy were calculated. Fertilizer energy (11,911.49 MJ/ha) was the maximum utilized energy source followed by diesel (6,228.98 MJ/ha) and electricity (5,677.27 MJ/ha) contributing about 40%, 21% and 19% of input energy. Fertilizer application (12,051.07 MJ/ha) had the highest share of energy consuming farm operation followed by irrigation (5,901.53 MJ/ha) and land preparation (5,664,71 MJ/ha). Aggregatum type onion cultivation consumed 29,378.44 MJ/ha total input energy (out of which 53.22 % direct energy and 46.78 % indirect energy). The output energy was calculated as 25,095.20 MJ/ha with energy productivity of 0.54 kg/MJ., it was concluded that fertilizer was the highest utilized energy sources (40.54%) followed by diesel (21.20%) and electricity (19.32%). From the above study it was concluded that consumption of fertilizer, diesel and electricity should be optimizied. In case of fertilizer, use of liquid fertilizes, nano fertilizer and adoption of natural farming may be validated through research and then many be recommended to the onion growing farmers. By adopting E-tractor or E-prime movers for farm operations will lead to reduction in use of diesel consumption. Farmers should be encouraged to use solar powered water pumps in place of electrical pumps to reduce the electrical energy. Energy from farm women also contributes significantly as input energy source. Farm women are engaged in planting of onion bulbs, weeding, harvesting and detopping operations of onion cultivation operations. Machineries are available for onion bulb planting, harvesting and detopping need to be widely demonstrated to the onion growing farmers for adoption thus leading to reduction the input energy in onion cultivation. ','Aggregatum type onion, direct energy, indirect energy, energy input-output, energy productivity','A study was conducted at Gundlupet (Tk.) of Chamarajanagar (Dt.) of Karnataka to assess the energy utilization for aggregatum type onion cultivation. From the above study, the following conclusions were drawn:\r\nThe total input energy utilised for cultivation of aggregatum type onion was 29,378.44± 1904.05 MJ/ha and output energy was 25,095.20 ± 2651.08 MJ/ha with the energy ratio of 0.86±0.12. Energy utilized for fertilizer application was observed to be the highest as 40.54 per cent followed by irrigation (19.32%) and land preparation (18.67%). Further, when all the nine associated energy sources (direct sources: men, women, tractor, diesel and electricity, indirect sources: seed, fertilizer, pesticide and machinery) were considered which contributes for the above three farm operation in onion cultivation, it was concluded that fertilizer was the highest utilized energy sources (40.54%) followed by diesel (21.20%) and electricity (19.32%). By utilizing the fertilizer, diesel and electricity optimally, the energy ratio can further be increased as well reduction in inputs coupled with soil health. It was also clear that energy from farm women contributing significantly as input energy source. Farm women are engaged in planting of onion bulbs, weeding, harvesting and detopping operations of onion cultivation operations. Machineries are available for onion bulb planting, harvesting and detopping. These machinery need to be widely demonstrated to the onion growing farmers for adoption thus leading to reduction in input energy in onion cultivation. ','-','A. Carolin Rathinakumari, G. Senthil Kumaran, Venu S.A. and Ashok Suraj B. S. (2022). Energy Input-Output Analysis of Aggregatum Type Onion Cultivation in Karnataka State. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 14(3): 1562-1567.'),(5533,'136','A Study on effectiveness of mKisan portal in providing Agricultural information in Telangana State','V. Preethi, K. Aruna and M. Jagan Mohan Reddy','267 A Study on effectiveness of mKisan portal in providing Agricultural information in Telangana State V. Preethi.pdf','',1,'The growing popularity, access, use of mobile phone technology and it’s penetration in all the sectors of the population in India give a unique opportunity in ICT mediated extension for development of mobile phone based agro-advisory systems. There is evidence of high use of mobile phones by seeing the TRAI reports. As the mKisan portal was providing advisories through SMS messaging which does not require any internet connection or a smartphone which include major reasons for effective utilization of mKisan services by small and marginal farmers. Ex-post facto research design was followed for the study. The state of Telangana was chosen for the studywith a sample size of 120 respondents. To study the effectiveness of mKisan portal in providing Agricultural information Index was developed for the study by selecting six indicators. The results shown that more than half of the respondents perceived that mKisan portal was effective in providing agricultural information.','Effectiveness, index, indicators.','From the above results it can be concluded that farmers perceived the information provided through mKisan portal was effective and useful to them in practicing Agriculture. It helping them to adopt new technologies and best agricultural practices. The content of messages should be provided based on farmer’s needs and local availability. The information was timely on agricultural practices. As there was low comprehensiveness of information provided through messages, the farmers suggested that there should be more information regarding market prices, farm mechanization, biofertilizers, organic farming practices, drying and storage activities. Provide information on available inputs in local markets. Create awareness on importance of mKisan portal through KVKs, FPOs to the farmers.','-','V. Preethi, K. Aruna and M. Jagan Mohan Reddy (2022). A Study on effectiveness of mKisan portal in providing Agricultural information in Telangana State. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 14(3): 1568-1570.'),(5534,'136','Studies on Leaf Spot of Pomegranate (Punica granatum L.) caused by Cercospora punicae Henn.','Shilpa, Somasekhara Y.M. Mahesh M. and Ravichandra','268 Studies on Leaf Spot of Pomegranate _Punica granatum L._ caused by Cercospora punicae Henn. Ravichandra.pdf','',1,'Pomegranate is a commercially growing fruit crop affected by several diseases of which leaf spot is an important disease hindering productivity. The objective of this study was Isolation, identification, cultural and Physiological characteristics of the C. punicae.C. punicae was isolated from typical lesions on leaf by standard tissue culture technique and single spore isolation technique after that, identified as Cercospora punicae by comparing with original descriptions. Pathogenicity was established by proving Koch’s postulates. Cultural studies revealed that among different culture media, highest radial growth (90.00mm)was observed on potato dextrose agar (PDA) followed by oat meal agar (OMA, 89.66 mm),while profuse sporulation was observed on oat meal agar and also found sexual perithecium fruiting bodies of Mycospherella punicae along with ascospores on corn meal agar. The conidia are colourless, straight, needle shape with multiseptate, obclavate. Physiological studies revealed that 25°C was best temperature with pH 6.0 was best for the growth and sporulation of C. punicae. At temperature of 30°C with highest radial growth (79.33 mm) and dry mycelial weight (283.23 mg) was recorded and good sporulation at 25 °C was noticed. Optimum pH for the growth of pathogen is 6.5 to 7.0.','Leaf spot, pomegranate, Cercospora punicae.','This studies revealed that leaf spot of pomegranate plant disease was caused by Cercospora punicae. The pathogen has well grown at temperature of 25°C and oat meal agar (OMA) was the best media for sporulation.','-','Shilpa, Somasekhara Y.M. Mahesh M. and Ravichandra (2022). Studies on Leaf Spot of Pomegranate (Punica granatum L.) caused by Cercospora punicae Henn.. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 14(3): 1571-1576.'),(5535,'136','Eco-Friendly Management of Major insect Pests of Mustard (Brassica juncea L.)','Vinyas S.N., Neharkar P.S. and Matre Y.B.','269 Eco-Friendly Management of Major insect Pests of Mustard _Brassica juncea L._ Neharkar P.pdf','',1,'The field trial was conducted to evaluate the effect of different biopesticides against major insect pests of mustard at research farm of Department of Agricultural Entomology, College of Agriculture, Vasantrao Naik Marathwada Krishi Vidyapeeth, Parbhani, Maharashtra, India. The results revealed that Azadirachtin 10000 ppm, Beauveria bassiana, Lecanicillium lecanii and NSKE could be the best combination of treatments in management of major insect pests of mustard as Azadirachtin 10000 ppm and Beauveria bassiana had a superior control over aphids and larval populations, respectively and both were aptly assisted by Lecanicillium lecanii and NSKE. Considering the economics of treatments, Azadirachtin 10000 ppm (1:16.97) and Beauveria bassiana (1:13.50) were found more economical than other treatments.','Biopesticides, Azadirachtin 10000 ppm, Beauveria bassiana, mustard etc.','The results shown that Azadirachtin 10000 ppm assisted by Lecanicillium lecanii had better control over aphids whereas Beauveria bassiana followed by Lecanicillium lecanii had superiority in controlling the leaf webber and sawfly population. Both these materials are supported by NSKE. One can here clearly sees the best combination of treatments in managing the major insect pests by eco-friendly method. When it comes to the economics of treatments, Azadirachtin 10000 ppm (1:16.97) and Beauveria bassiana (1:13.50) were found more economical. As the world is concerned about climate change, global warming and environment pollution, we as an agriculture scientists need to look for alternative methods to conventional chemical applications. More of experiments are needed to evaluate these treatment materials in oil seed crops','-','Vinyas S.N., Neharkar P.S. and Matre Y.B. (2022). Eco-Friendly Management of Major insect Pests of Mustard (Brassica juncea L.). Biological Forum – An International Journal, 14(3): 1577-1581.'),(5536,'136','Integrated management of Sorghum ergot Disease caused by C. sorghi','Sudha A. and Rajesh M.','270 Integrated management of Sorghum ergot Disease caused by C. sorghi Sudha A.pdf','',1,'Ergot can irreparably damage sorghum nurseries and genetic stock. Disease-related damages in South Africa and India are 10–80%. This pathogen causes severe yield loss in hybrid seed production of sorghum. This study was planned to have disease management practices, by studying the characteristics of pathogen, through biological agents. C. sorghi\'s sphacelia or sclerotia were barely visible in honeydew. Physical characteristics helped identify C. sorghi. Mycelium forms micro, macro, and secondary conidia. Microconidia were hyaline aseptate and 2.5–5 m in diameter. Macro conidia were hyaline, aseptate, rectangular to oval, 13133.7 to 14127.5 m dia, and constricted in the centre. C. sorghi (MW281790) was identified as the disease\'s causal agent. Seven fungicides were tested in vitro at 0.0.05, 0.075, and 0.1% against C. sorghi. Mycelial growth was inhibited most by carboxin 37.5% + thiram 37.5% WS at 0.05%, followed by tebuconazole 25.9% EC (0.1%) (90.63%). Bacillus subtilis (EPC 5), one of six bioagents studied in vitro employing dual culture, inhibited mycelial growth by 56.87%. In 2019–20, a pot culture was started after the in vitro investigation. Spraying 25.9% EC (0.1%) tebuconazole reduced incidence to 9.99% and increased grain yield to 2009 kg/ha compared to 1278 kg/ha for the control. Spraying tebuconazole 25.9% EC (0.1%) @ 1ml/l resulted in a minimum incidence of 13.34% and a benefit–cost ratio of 1.71 in a 2020–2021 field investigation.','Ergot, sclerotia, bioagents, fungicides.','Even though there haven\'t been many studies on the pathogen and treatment of the disease, there isn\'t much data available on biological and chemical management studies or disease severity. Therefore, it is necessary to thoroughly research each of these factors in order to advise farmers on an efficient management approach and the fundamentals of the disease.','-','Sudha A. and Rajesh M. (2022). Integrated management of Sorghum ergot Disease caused by C. sorghi. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 14(3): 1582-1588.'),(5537,'136','Postharvest Shelf-life Extension of Carrot (Daucus carota L.) cv. New Kuroda using different surface Coatings','D. Srivalli, Anindita Roy, M. Viswanath and Monalisa Sahoo','271 Postharvest Shelf-life Extension of Carrot _Daucus carota L._ cv. New Kuroda using different surface Coatings Anindita Roy.pdf','',1,'Vegetables aesthetic qualities are frequently enhanced by the application of different surface coatings. In this work, different edible and chemical based coatings were evaluated for postharvest shelf-life extension of Carrot (Daucus carota L.) cv. New Kuroda during storage at ambient temperature (26 ± 2 °C, RH 68 ± 4%) for 7 days. Untreated samples were used as the controls. Results suggested that the coating treatment T4 (Aloe vera gel 40%) enhanced product quality by preventing physiological loss in weight (10.29 %), per cent of decay (29.13%),maintaining better values for firmness (7.10 kg/cm2), beta carotene (2.93 mg/100g) and ascorbic acid (2.70 mg/100g). While, the treatment T6(30% honey) recorded the highest values in TSS(12.580) and total sugars (4.83 %).From the sensory point of view, all the coated samples were appreciated for quality attributes about 6 to 7 days, whereas all the other fresh carrots were refused after only 2 days.','Carrot, edible and chemical coatings, storage life','Postharvest treatments significantly delays in respiration rate and maintains firmness when treated with Aloe vera, H2O2, CaCl2 and honey solution, it lowers the decay percentage during the storage. So, we can recommend the use of Aloe vera, H2O2, CaCl2 and honey solution as edible coating to maintain the quality attributes during storage which shows great potential for preserving. This coating provides a barrier to reduce weight loss, preserve pH, maintains TSS and shelf life as well as quality of carrots. A. vera gel has an impact on the product\'s quality and the quantity of bioactive substances it contains. Edible coverings made of Aloe vera have been demonstrated to delay oxidative browning and microbe growth, control respiration rate and maturation and prevent moisture and firmness loss. Post-harvest losses can be reduced with effective post-harvest procedures.','-','D. Srivalli, Anindita Roy, M. Viswanath and Monalisa Sahoo (2022). Postharvest Shelf-life Extension of Carrot (Daucus carota L.) cv. New Kuroda using different surface Coatings. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 14(3): 1589-1594.'),(5538,'136','Assessment of Genetic Variability and Heritability in CMS Lines and their F1’s of Rice (Oryza sativa L.)','Ashwani Kumar Singh, Alok Kumar Singh, Tarkeshwar, Anjali Goldy and Shiv Prasad Maurya','272 Assessment of Genetic Variability and Heritability in CMS Lines and their F1’s of Rice _Oryza sativa L._ Tarkeshwar.pdf','',1,'Rice is the most important crop in India. Currently, it provides 43% of cereal output and 46% of food grain production. India has the greatest area among the countries that grow rice, with 49 million hectares, followed by China. India is the world\'s second-largest producer of rice, with an estimated 118.9 million tonnes annually, but there is still an opportunity for the development of high-yielding and stress-tolerant varieties to fulfill the demands of the planet\'s constantly growing population. The current study examined the degree of variability present among CMS lines of rice (Oryza sativa L.) and their hybrids in conducted in randomized block design during Kharif 2020 at Pilikothi Farm of Tilak Dhari Degree College Jaunpur (U.P.). For each replication of the twelve characters, the observations were made on five competing plants of a given genotype that were chosen at random from a plot. Twelve quantitative traits, including seedling height (cm), days to 50% flowering, flag leaf area (cm2), plant height (cm), panicle bearing tillers per plant, panicle length (cm), spikelets per panicle, spikelet fertility (%), test weight (g), biological yield per plant (g), grain yield per plant (g), and harvest-index (%), were observed. Analysis of variance reveals significant genotype-to-genotype variation for each characteristic. For spikelets per panicle, the high estimations of PCV and GCV were calculated (PCV=21.20%, GCV=21.12%). For grain yield per plant, the high estimations of PCV with the modest GCV were noted (PCV=20.58%, GCV=19.40%). Estimates of broad sense heritability ranged from 53.25 percent (spikelet fertility%) to 99.25 percent (spikelets per panicle). Spikelets per panicle (99.25%), biological yield per plant (96.42%), flag leaf area (89.58%), grain yield per plant (88.91%), and plant height (87.55%) all showed strong heritability in the broad sense (>75%). For spikelets per panicle (43.35%), grain yield per plant (37.68%), biological yield per plant (34.97%), flag leaf area (30.93%), and panicle bearing tillers per plant (22.81%), the genetic advance in percent of mean was found to be high (>20%). For plant height, panicle length, and seedling height, moderate (>10–20%) estimates of genetic progress in percent of mean were noted. Hence the selection among these genotypes for these traits will be worthful in planning a breeding programme.','Rice, Oryza sativa, CMS, variability, heritability, coefficient of variation','In any breeding programme planned to improve a trait, it is crucial to have a better understating of the variability and heritability of a population. Because it provides an idea about the breeding schemes to be adopted for the improvement of particular traits. In this sense, the characters spikelets per panicle, biological yield per plant, flag leaf area, grain yield per plant, and plant height had high estimates of heritability and genetic advance indicating additive gene action. So, selection will be rewarding for the improvement of these traits in a breeding programme planned in CMS rice.','-','Ashwani Kumar Singh, Alok Kumar Singh, Tarkeshwar, Anjali Goldy and Shiv Prasad Maurya (2022). Assessment of Genetic Variability and Heritability in CMS Lines and their F1’s of Rice (Oryza sativa L.). Biological Forum – An International Journal, 14(3): 1595-1598.'),(5539,'136','Impact of Tribal Sub Plan (TSP) programme on Income and Employment Generation of the Farmers in Odisha-An Analytical Study','K. Behera and B. Mishra','274 Impact of Tribal Sub Plan _TSP_ programme on Income and Employment Generation of the Farmers in Odisha-An Analytical Study K. Behera.pdf','',4,'Special economic development of the Scheduled tribes and Protection against their exploitation has been an important agenda of the Government. The Tribal Sub plan was initiated during fifth Five year plan to provide direct benefit to the schedule tribes. All the developmental agencies in the district are involved in the project for all round development of the tribal people. Various occupational activities are formulated for the income and employment generation. This paper investigates the Impact of Tribal Sub Plan Programme on Income and employment generation of the farmers in Odisha. The study was conducted in two tribal districts covered under Tribal Sub plan programme in a state of Odisha. A total of 240 respondents were selected for the purpose of accomplishing the objective of our study. Interview Schedule has been prepared in context of the purpose of the present study. Unless occupational competency increased, there will not be much of technological developments. Similarly, much of technological development occur unless adoption of remunerative enterprises. Technological development makes better management of adverse situation. Sustainability and stability in production is another consideration of technological developments. It is apprehended that much initiatives had not been taken for the development of farm activities. The respondents might have concentrated on their traditional practice. significant differential percentage of gaps not observed on various aspects of material possession The respondents had poor opinions on developments in purchase of required farm implements, purchase of additional land, developing on irrigation system, land reclamation and levelling as well as better education to children and self-sufficient in food. Significant gap percentages obtained on all the socio cultural factor revealed that the socio cultural development as a whole were not satisfactory. The respondents of both Mayurbhanj and Gajapati district had positively opined for more income and employment generation, facilities created for self-employment and to some extent productive time utilization. Though significant differential percentage of opinions observed on easy marketing of the produce, better access to credit and finance as well as increase in capability for farm investments.','Tribal Sub Plan, Programme, Income, Employment, Development','The motto of the Tribal sub plan is to enrich the tribal farmers to enrich their knowledge and skills for effective implementation of developmental activities. Training and other extension approaches are organised regularly to update their knowledge and skills. The pooled mean score value had indicated significant differential gap percentages of all the aspects of technological developments covered under the study. The findings therefore suggest that the extension officials involved in Tribal Sub plan activities have to take intensive effort on poor development areas and further strengthening of better development aspects for the betterment of the tribal farmers. In the context of the extent of development of farm activities, the extension officials involved in the process have to analyse the reasons of deficiencies and take adequate steps for the improvement of farm activities particularly the deficient areas. According to material possession, the findings therefore suggested for intensive effort in formulating need based feasible programme with knowledge and skill proficiency for effective implementation resulting better production and income generation. As per comparative analysis of all aspects of development, it is concluded that the officials involved in the process of programme implementation have to analyse the deficiencies and take all possible steps to enrich the knowledge and skill proficiency that may motivate the respondents to adopt and raise both income and employment generation. The Tribal Sub Plan project has formulated need based programme for economical upliftment of the tribal farmers. Various extension activities are organised for knowledge and skill enrichment for effective implementation of the programme to achieve the desired goal.','-','K. Behera and B. Mishra (2022). Impact of Tribal Sub Plan (TSP) programme on Income and Employment Generation of the Farmers in Odisha-An Analytical Study. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 14(3): 1603-1608.'),(5540,'136','Assessment for Tolerance to Salt Stress during Germination Revealed Variability among the Accessions of the Tomato Association Mapping Panel ','Asif Hadimani, Mukesh L. Chavan, Fakrudin, B., Anjanappa, M., Halesh G.K. and Shivanna, M.','273 Assessment for Tolerance to Salt Stress during Germination Revealed Variability among the Accessions of the Tomato Association Mapping Panel Asif Hadimani.pdf','',1,'Soil salinity is regarded as one of the most serious threats to vegetable production. Genetic variability studies for salt stress during the early seedling stage are useful in the selection and isolation of salt tolerant genotypes from existing germplasm for the development of new salt tolerant tomato varieties and hybridization. A laboratory experiment was carried out to assess the genetic plasticity among 260 minicore collection during germination stage under 100 mm NaCl salt stress. The Analysis of variation revealed that all of the characters studied under salt stress were highly significant, indicating the existence of a wide range of availability for salt tolerance. A wide range of variation along with high heritability and genetic advance suggests the existence of a broad genetic base and less environmental influence which specifies the predominance of additive gene effects. Hence, early generation selection gives a sufficient scope for breeders to select promising genotypes from the existing gene pool for salt tolerance. ','Tomato, Salt stress, PCV, GCV, Heritability, Genetic advance','Based on ANOVA and genetic parameter estimates we conclude that the presence of genetic variability for salt tolerance in germplasm and the parameters like germination percent (%), speed of germination, root length (cm), shoot length (cm), seedling vigor index and dry weight root to shoot ratio has shown high phenotypic co-efficient of variation and genotypic co-efficient of variation as well as high heritability coupled with high genetic advance over mean. The obtained data results based on genetic variability, heritability and genetic advance would be useful for selection and isolation of tomato genotypes for further crop improvement related to salinity tolerance along with higher yield in tomato.','-','Hadimani, A., Mukesh L. C., Fakrudin, B., Anjanappa, M., Halesh, G. K. and Shivanna, M. (2022). Assessment for tolerance to salt stress during germination revealed variability among the accessions of tomato association mapping panel. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 14(3): 1599-1602.'),(5541,'136','Impact of Tribal Sub Plan (TSP) programme on Income and Employment Generation of the Farmers in Odisha-An Analytical Study','K. Behera and B. Mishra','274 Impact of Tribal Sub Plan _TSP_ programme on Income and Employment Generation of the Farmers in Odisha-An Analytical Study K. Behera.pdf','',1,'Special economic development of the Scheduled tribes and Protection against their exploitation has been an important agenda of the Government. The Tribal Sub plan was initiated during fifth Five year plan to provide direct benefit to the schedule tribes. All the developmental agencies in the district are involved in the project for all round development of the tribal people. Various occupational activities are formulated for the income and employment generation. This paper investigates the Impact of Tribal Sub Plan Programme on Income and employment generation of the farmers in Odisha. The study was conducted in two tribal districts covered under Tribal Sub plan programme in a state of Odisha. A total of 240 respondents were selected for the purpose of accomplishing the objective of our study. Interview Schedule has been prepared in context of the purpose of the present study. Unless occupational competency increased, there will not be much of technological developments. Similarly, much of technological development occur unless adoption of remunerative enterprises. Technological development makes better management of adverse situation. Sustainability and stability in production is another consideration of technological developments. It is apprehended that much initiatives had not been taken for the development of farm activities. The respondents might have concentrated on their traditional practice. significant differential percentage of gaps not observed on various aspects of material possession The respondents had poor opinions on developments in purchase of required farm implements, purchase of additional land, developing on irrigation system, land reclamation and levelling as well as better education to children and self-sufficient in food. Significant gap percentages obtained on all the socio cultural factor revealed that the socio cultural development as a whole were not satisfactory. The respondents of both Mayurbhanj and Gajapati district had positively opined for more income and employment generation, facilities created for self-employment and to some extent productive time utilization. Though significant differential percentage of opinions observed on easy marketing of the produce, better access to credit and finance as well as increase in capability for farm investments.','Tribal Sub Plan, Programme, Income, Employment, Development','The motto of the Tribal sub plan is to enrich the tribal farmers to enrich their knowledge and skills for effective implementation of developmental activities. Training and other extension approaches are organised regularly to update their knowledge and skills. The pooled mean score value had indicated significant differential gap percentages of all the aspects of technological developments covered under the study. The findings therefore suggest that the extension officials involved in Tribal Sub plan activities have to take intensive effort on poor development areas and further strengthening of better development aspects for the betterment of the tribal farmers. In the context of the extent of development of farm activities, the extension officials involved in the process have to analyse the reasons of deficiencies and take adequate steps for the improvement of farm activities particularly the deficient areas. According to material possession, the findings therefore suggested for intensive effort in formulating need based feasible programme with knowledge and skill proficiency for effective implementation resulting better production and income generation. As per comparative analysis of all aspects of development, it is concluded that the officials involved in the process of programme implementation have to analyse the deficiencies and take all possible steps to enrich the knowledge and skill proficiency that may motivate the respondents to adopt and raise both income and employment generation. The Tribal Sub Plan project has formulated need based programme for economical upliftment of the tribal farmers. Various extension activities are organised for knowledge and skill enrichment for effective implementation of the programme to achieve the desired goal.','-','K. Behera and B. Mishra (2022). Impact of Tribal Sub Plan (TSP) programme on Income and Employment Generation of the Farmers in Odisha-An Analytical Study. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 14(3): 1603-1608.'),(5542,'136','Isolation and Identification of Mycorrhiza Helper Bacteria with Biochemical Characterization and Plant Growth Promoting Traits','G. Naganjali*, R. Lakshmipathy, A. Vijaya Gopal and P. Madhuvani','275 Isolation and Identification of Mycorrhiza Helper Bacteria with Biochemical Characterization and Plant Growth Promoting Traits G. Naganjali.pdf','',1,'Mycorrhiza Helper Bacteria (MHB) forms symbiotic associations with ectomycorrhiza and Arbuscular Mycorrhiza (AM). Arbuscular Mycorrhizal Fungi (AMF) colonize the roots of approximately 80% of terrestrial plants. The most common beneficial effect of mycorrhizae is increased uptake of immobile nutrients, especially P, from soil. In the present study, it is mainly focussed on selection of an efficient MHB to enhance AM fungal activity and in turn increase the crop growth. In this study 40 MHBs were isolated from the rhizosphere soils of different crops from different agroclimatic zones of Andhra Pradesh. Among the 40 MHB isolates, most of them were gram positive (+ve), rod shaped and few were motile and endodpore formers. 23 isolates were positive for catalase, 18 isolates were positive for starch hydrolysis, 37 isolates were positive for MR test, 20 isolates were positive for VP test, 18 isolates were positive for casein hydrolysis, 12 isolates were positive for indole production and only one isolate was positive for H2S production. Fifty five per cent of the isolates were found positive for IAA production, maximum phosphrous solubilization was shown by the NDLCP2 with a Solubilization Index of 4.00 and highest potassium Solubilization Index was shown by the strain NDLCP3 (2.7) and among 40 bacterial isolates 38 bacterial isolates were positive for ammonia production. The MHB isolates which exhibited PGPR traits can be better utilized in agriculture as PGPR to enhance crop productivity. ','MHB: Mycorrhiza Helper Bacteria, PGPR: Plant growth promotion, IAA, Ammonia production, Solubilization Index','The results of the present investigation revealed various morphological, biochemical and PGPR characters of MHB isolates. Based on these characters it can be concluded that certain MHB isolates which possess positive characters can be better utilized for enhancing the AM fungal activity and plant growth promotion. And further the two MHB isolates NDLCP2 and NDLCP3 were very efficient and which can be utilized for enhancing the AM fungal activity and crop growth by conducting further pot and field experiments.','-','G. Naganjali, R. Lakshmipathy, A. Vijaya Gopal, and P. Madhuvani (2022). Isolation and Identification of Mycorrhiza Helper Bacteria with Biochemical Characterization and Plant Growth Promoting Traits. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 14(3): 1609-1616.'),(5543,'136','Nutritional Profiling of Microgreens','Ch. Soumya, G. Priya Sugandhi, K. Aparna and V. Ravinder Naik','276 Nutritional Profiling of Microgreens Ch.pdf','',1,'As population grows at an unprecedented rate, food system must be revised to provide adequate nutrition while minimizing environmental impacts. Current malnutrition statistics high and one needs attention is mineral malnutrition like iron. So the inclusion of nutrient and mineral dense microgreens in the diet will help to prevent diseases like anemia. However, the use of microgreens is increasing due to increased consumer demand for healthier food products. This study was carried out for nutritional profiling of microgreens such as wheatgrass (Triticum aestivum L.) and basil (Ocimum tenuiflorum ) on a dry weight basis. Both wheatgrass and basil were grown in trays and harvested between the 8th and 21st days respectively subjected to shade drying and made into powders. These micogreen samples were examined for proximate composition, minerals and antioxidant properties. The Moisture, ash, protein, fat, crude fiber, carbohydrate, energy, iron, calcium, zinc, vitamin C, TPC, TFC, and TAA were 6.753% and 7.42%, 8.4% and 2.92%, 20.20g and 4.69g, 0.27g and 1.16g, 8.21g and 6.14g, 45.07g and 35.29g, 203.1 kcal and 179.6kcal, 62.42mg and 89.8mg, 660.2mg and 200.2 mg, 4.16 mg and 7.1mg, 18.82 mg and 0.80 mg, 8.53 and 9.10 mg GAE/g, 4.09 and 6.81 mg QE/g, 0.74 and 0.98 mg DPPH/g respectively for wheatgrass and basil microgreens.','Microgreens, Wheatgrass, Basil, Nutritional profile, Health food','Microgreens are gaining popularity in the market due to a change in lifestyle patterns and health consciousness among consumers today. The antioxidants, vitamins, and minerals in microgreens promote good health. Microgreens have more nutrients compared to GLV. Microgreens such as wheatgrass and basil were found to be the most nutrient-dense. Nutritional profiling of microgreens reported in this study would be helpful to guide consumers in their dietary choices. The information from this study can be used by Food engineers, Food processors, and Food scientists. As microgreens become more popular on supermarket shelves, it would also assist producers in promoting nutrient-dense microgreens. ','-','Ch. Soumya, G. Priya Sugandhi, K. Aparna and V. Ravinder Naik (2022). Nutritional Profiling of Microgreens. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 14(3): 1617-1621.'),(5544,'136','Effect of Precision Irrigation and Nutrient Management on Growth and Yield of Baby Corn (Zea mays L.)','Gurunath Raddy, Jayadeva H.M., Hanumantappa D.C., Lalitha B.S.','277 Effect of Precision Irrigation and Nutrient Management on Growth and Yield of Baby Corn _Zea mays L._ Gurunath Raddy.pdf','',1,'Water scarcity is becoming more and more serious globally as a result of climate change and population increase. This necessitates automation in the irrigation system for effective water resource utilisation, and most researchers are now focusing on irrigation system automation. Sensor-based automation in drip irrigation systems will be game changer technology for effectively utilising water resources. A field experiment on precision irrigation and nitrogen management on growth and yield of baby corn (Zea mays L.) was carried out during summer 2021 and 2022 at L Block, GKVK, Bengaluru. Three levels of irrigation as main plot treatment with five sub plots of nutrient management practices were laid out in a split plot design. The results revealed that IoT based drip irrigation at 50 per cent DASM along with application of fertilizer using SSNM based split application of NPK for targeted yield of 10 t ha-1 recorded significantly higher plant height (177.1 cm), number of leaves (15.6 plant-1), dry matter accumulation (164.5 g plant-1), GreenSeeker value (0.78), SPAD value (61.3), Cob length (13.9 cm), cob girth (6.1 cm), cob weight (21.9 g cob-1), cob yield (85.5 q ha-1) and water use efficiency (31.8 kg ha-mm-1) on pooled basis compared to all treatments. Surface irrigation with recommended dose of fertilizer recorded significantly lower plant height (123.7 cm), number of leaves (10.1 plant-1), dry matter accumulation (110.0 g plant-1), GreenSeeker value (0.56), SPAD value (42.7), Cob length (8.4 cm), cob girth (3.9 cm), cob weight (15.7 g cob-1), cob yield (42.2 q ha-1) and water use efficiency (11.9 kg ha-mm-1). Sensor based irrigation and nitrogen management will save irrigation water, nutrients applied and enhance the yield.','Sensor, Internet of Things, GreenSeeker, SPAD, Baby corn','Irrigation with IoT based drip irrigation at 50 % DASM and yellow SMI based drip irrigation in baby corn helps to achieve yield of 7.17 and 6.70 t ha-1 with saving of water up to 31 and 27 per cent, respectively as compared to surface irrigation. Application of nutrients through SSNM based NPK management for target yield of 10 t ha-1 in baby corn helps to achieve dehusked cob yield of 7.83 t ha-1 by applying nutrient at split doses and STCR based split application of N for target yield of 10 t ha-1 will give on par yield (7.6 t ha-1). IoT based drip irrigation at 50 per cent DASM along with application of fertilizer using SSNM based split application of NPK for targeted yield of 10 t ha-1 helps to achieve higher fresh cob yield (8.55 t ha-1 of dehusked cob, respectively) and fodder yield (76.5 t ha-1).\r\nFramers can use these Internets of things in scheduling the irrigation and can monitor their field from various places. Artificial intelligence application in agriculture will bring new revolution in efficient irrigation and save the water applied. The smart irrigation technologies will change the face of irrigation with increasing the irrigation efficiency and higher yield. Irrigation used in the agriculture will be cut down to higher level so that the extra water can be utilized to raise other additional crops in the field. The sensors will help to improve the resource use efficiency. \r\n','-','Gurunath Raddy, Jayadeva H.M., Hanumantappa D.C., Lalitha B.S.(2022). Effect of Precision Irrigation and Nutrient Management on Growth and Yield of Baby Corn (Zea mays L.). Biological Forum – An International Journal, 14(3): 1622-1629.'),(5545,'136','Effect of Weed Management Practices on Pigeon Pea and Green Gram intercropping System based on rainfed condition in Kymore Plateau of Madhya Pradesh','Balkrishna Namdeo, Neelash Patel, Dig Vijay Dubey, Shriman Kumar Patel, Munesh Kumar and Vikash Singh Thakur','278 Effect of Weed Management Practices on Pigeon Pea and Green Gram intercropping System based on rainfed condition in Kymore Plateau of Madhya Pradesh Balkrishna Namdeo.pdf','',1,'The field experiment to determine “Effect of different weedicides in pigeon pea [Cajanus cajan (L.) Millsp] + green gram (Vigna radiata (L.) Millsp) intercropping system under rainfed condition in Kymore Plateau of Madhya Pradesh” during kharif and rabi seasons in the year 2012-13 was conducted at the Rajoula Research Farm, M.G.C.G.V., Chitrakoot, Satna, Madhya Pradesh. Present experiment has been designed to select the appropriate weed management practice in pigeon pea cultivation as the weed management has its own importance in terms of yield and economics. The aim of this stydy to assess the most suitable weed management practices for pigeonpea + green gram intercropping system. Results revealed that intercropping system pigeon pea + green gram (2:2) is an superseding cropping system in respect to crop growth, root and root nodulation, yield attributes, yield and economics as compared to alone pigeon pea or green gram. Whereas, the application of pre emergence weedicide Pendimethelin @ 1.0 kg ai with post emergence weedicide Imazethapyr @0.1 kg ai/ha (W5) or by pre emergence weedicide Oxyfluorfen @ 0.2 kg ai/ha with post emergence weedicide Imazethapyr @ 0.1 kg ai/ha ((W6). These weedicides were found efficient in controlling weeds and in relation to higher yield attributes, seed and straw yield of pigeon pea and green grammost appropriate, profitable and productive treatment combination for pigeon pea and green gram intercropping system. In case of economics of intercropping system I2: pigeon pea + green gram (2:2) was found better in terms of benefit: cost ratio.','Herbicide, Intercropping, Pigeon pea, Green gram, Yield, Economics','On the basis of the results obtained from the experiment, It can be concluded that, under intercropping system based on pigeon pea + green gram (2:2) is an superseding cropping system in respect to crop growth, root length and root nodules, yield attributes, yield and befit cost ratio as compared to alone pigeon pea or green gram. Weed can be managed efficiently by application of the pre emergence weedicide Pendimethalin @ 1.0 kg ai with post emergence weedicide Imazethapyr @0.1 kg ai/ha (W5) or by pre emergence weedicide Oxyfluorfen @ 0.2 kg ai/ha with post emergence weedicide Imazethapyr @ 0.1 kg ai/ha ((W6). These weedicides were found efficient in controlling weeds and in relation to higher yield attributes, seed and straw yield of pigeon pea and green gram. Under intercropping system I2: pigeon pea+green gram (2:2) combined with pre emergence application of Pendimethelin@ 1.0 kg ai or Oxyfluorfen @ 0.2 kg ai/ha with post emergence application of Imazethapyr @ 0.1 kg ai/ha was most appropriate, profitable and productive treatment combination for pigeon pea and green gram crops under rainfed area of Kymore plateau of Madhya Pradesh. Economics of intercropping system I2: pigeon pea + green gram (2:2) was found better in terms of benefit: cost ratio.','-','Balkrishna Namdeo, Neelash Patel, Dig Vijay Dubey, Shriman Kumar Patel, Munesh Kumar and Vikash Singh Thakur (2022). Effect of Weed Management Practices on Pigeon Pea and Green Gram intercropping System based on rainfed condition in Kymore Plateau of Madhya Pradesh. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 14(3): 1630-1636.'),(5546,'136','Effect of Spacing and Nutrient Management on Yield and Economics of Summer Blackgram (Vigna mungo L. Heeper) under Organic conditions','Ganvit K.J., Patel V.J. and Desai N.B.','279 Effect of Spacing and Nutrient Management on Yield and Economics of Summer Blackgram _Vigna mungo L. Heeper_ under Organic conditions Ganvit K.pdf','',1,'A field experiment was conducted during summer season of year 2021 at College Agronomy Farm, B. A. College of Agriculture, Anand Agricultural University, Anand with a view to study the effect of spacing and nutrient management on yield and economics of summer blackgram (Vigna mungo L. Heeper) under organic conditions. The experiment consisted of twelve treatment combinations comprised of two different spacing related to main factor and six nutrient management practices allotted to sub factor and were tested under randomized block design with factorial concept and replicated thrice. Results revealed that crop sown at spacing 30 × 10 cm (S1) recorded significantly higher plant height, seed yield and haulm yield while, in case of number of branches/plant, dry weight of root nodules, plant dry biomass and root dry biomass were recorded significantly higher with crop sown at spacing 45 × 10 cm (S2). Application of 100% N through castor cake + seed treatment of Rhizobium recorded significantly higher growth and yield attributes viz., plant height, number of branches/plant, dry weight of nodules, plant and root dry biomass, pods/plant, length of pod, seeds/pod and seed index of blackgram. Further, higher net monetary returns of ` 35254/ha and benefit cost ratio of 2.12 were fetched under treatment combination of 100% N through castor cake + seed treatment of Rhizobium.','Blackgram, FYM, vermicompost, castor cake','From the results of one-year experimentation, it can be concluded that higher yield of summer blackgram could be achieved with sowing of crop at 30 × 10 cm spacing and fertilized with 100% N through castor cake and seed treatment with Rhizobium under organic conditions.','-','Ganvit K.J., Patel V.J. and Desai N.B. (2022). Effect of Spacing and Nutrient Management on Yield and Economics of Summer Blackgram (Vigna mungo L. Heeper) under Organic conditions. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 14(3): 1637-1641.'),(5547,'136','Effect of Seed Priming on Physiological characteristics of Maize under Imposed Salinity Stress','Sravanthi G., Ravi Babu M., Vijaya Kumar G., Anny Mrudhula K. and Ratna Kumari S.','280 Effect of Seed Priming on Physiological characteristics of Maize under Imposed Salinity Stress Sravanthi G.pdf','',1,'Soil salinity is one of the major abiotic stresses that adversely affect the seed germination, seedling growth, and crop production in arid and semi-arid regions. Maize is vulnerable to salinity both in the seedling and vegetative stages and they undergo difficulties during germination and the problem of salinity is further increased because of the use of poor-quality water for irrigation and poor drainage. The deleterious effects of salt stress on seed germination can be effectively moderated by seed priming. However few studies have been conducted to compared the effects of different types of seed priming include hydro-priming, halo and osmopriming, hormonal priming, bio-priming, matrix priming and thermos priming on maize germination and growth under salt stress. In the present study, we evaluated the physiological effects of seed priming with NaCl, KCl, and CaCl2.2H2O of various concentrations on maize under salt stress. The physiological characteristics like germination percentage, seedling vigor index, root length, shoot length, shoot to root ratio were reduced by salinity stress. Different priming treatments alleviated the impact of salt stress on maize to varying degrees. The type of priming agent and solution concentration had a significant impact on mitigation and seed priming with 100 and 200 mM.L-1 of CaCl2.2H2O were more effective and seed priming with 100 mM.L-1 of NaCl were least effective under salinity. Thus, seed priming with CaCl2.2H2O solution could be effective to improve the germination and growth of maize under saline stress conditions.','Maize, priming agents, seed priming, salinity and seed germination','Salinity inhibits the growth of maize seeds at their early stages. Priming is a practical way for farmers with salinity-stressed agricultural fields to meet their needs. CaCl2. 2H2O was found to be the most successful at imparting salt tolerance in maize at the early growth stages among the several chloride salts used for priming maize seeds. In this experiment, the better performance of the primed seeds on germination percentage, seedling vigor, shoot and root length shows the appraise of priming in saline soils. Additional advanced research is also required to investigate the effects of seed priming on physiological and biochemical attributes at different growth stages and yield of maize.','-','Sravanthi G., Ravi Babu M., Vijaya Kumar G., Anny Mrudhula K. and Ratna Kumari S. (2022). Effect of Seed Priming on Physiological characteristics of Maize under Imposed Salinity Stress. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 14(3): 1642-1646.'),(5548,'136','Effect of Cropping Module and Row Ratio on Growth and Quality of Chickpea (Cicer arietinum L.) + Linseed (Linium usitatissium L.) Intercropping','Aparna Verma, R.B. Yadav, Sandeep Kumar Verma, Sushmita and Shalini Roy','281 Effect of Cropping Module and Row Ratio on Growth and Quality of Chickpea _Cicer arietinum L._ + Linseed _Linium usitatissium L._ Intercropping Aparna Verma.pdf','',1,'In order to evaluate the effect of Cropping Module and Row Ratio on Growth and Quality of Chickpea (Cicer arietinum L.) + Linseed (Linium usitatissium L.), the experiment was carried out on well drained sandy clay loam soil, low in organic carbon and available nitrogen, medium in available phosphorus, potassium, sulphur and moderately alkaline in pH, at crop research centre of Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel University of Agriculture & Technology, Meerut (U.P.), during 2021-22 the experiment was comprising with 16 treatments consisting combination of 4 intercropping and 4 cropping modules. viz., chickpea sole, linseed sole, chickpea + linseed in ratio of 1:1, chickpea + linseed in ratio of 2:1 and 4 cropping module viz., control with no use of any nutrient management option, inorganic module with recommended dose of fertilizers NPKS, organic module with FYM, Tricoderma, seed inoculation by Rhizobium, PSB and natural module with seed treatment beejamruith, foliar application of jeewamruith, soil application of panchgavya. Chickpea and linseed variety Avrodhi and Garima was tested in split plot design with 3 replications. Thus, in the intercropping chickpea crop with ratio of 2:1 and linseed crop with ratio of 1:1 found better than the rest of the treatments and cropping module inorganic cropping module found better than rest of the cropping module. Found maximum growth (plant height, dry matter accumulation and number of nodules), protein content and yield, oil content and yield. ','Chickpea (Cicer arietinum L.), Linseed (Linium usitatissium L.), Inorganic module, Organic module, Natural module, Intercropping','In the light of the results obtained from this investigation it can be concluded that chickpea and linseed both performed individually better in sole stand Among the intercropping system the chickpea + linseed with the ratio of 2:1 performed significantly higher growth parameters, quality and nutrient uptake. Whereas linseed performed better in 1:1 ratio. In the cropping module Inorganic module performed better than organic and natural module, but according to soil health organic and natural module is beneficial.','-','Aparna Verma, R.B. Yadav, Sandeep Kumar Verma, Sushmita and Shalini Roy (2022). Effect of Cropping Module and Row Ratio on Growth and Quality of Chickpea (Cicer arietinum L.) + Linseed (Linium usitatissium L.) Intercropping. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 14(3): 1647-1651.'),(5549,'136','Evaluation of Exotic Fig (Ficus carica. L) Cultivars for Pomological Characters','Manasa Jyothi, Aneesa Rani M.S., Kavino M. and Djanaguiraman M.','282 Evaluation of Exotic Fig _Ficus carica. L_ Cultivars for Pomological Characters Manasa Jyothi.pdf','',1,'Fig (Ficus carica L) is a typical subtropical fruit crop which is generating commercial importance in the recent past. In Tamil Nadu, the scope of fig cultivation is increasing because of introduction of exotic cultivars viz., Afghan fig, Brown Turkey, Brownswick, Deannaover traditional varieties viz., Tinda fig. In this study, three introduced fig cultivars (Afghan, Brown Turkey and Deanna) were evaluated on the basis of pomological and agronomical characteristics with the aim to find best performing cultivar for commercial exploitation. Among the cultivars studied, canopy spread, volume, fruit size and weight, Brown Turkey had the heaviest fruit (46.28 g), whereas Deanna had the lightest fruit (39.64g). Brown Turkey had the highest fruit quality in terms of TSS (16.23 °B) and acidity (0.28%). Based on the preliminary investigations, it is recommended that Brown Turkey may be exploited for commercial exploitation.','Ficus carica. L, ripe fig, fruit quality, tree characters','Among the three cultivars, Brown Turkey was found to be superior to the other two cultivars, Afghan and Deanna in terms of yield and quality of fruits, while plant growth was more for Afghan. The number of fruits per tree was higher for Afghan, followed by Brown Turkey, but the fruit weight was more for Brown Turkey, followed by Deanna which is intermediate in all the characteristics. Thus, the variety Brown Turkey is suitable for both fresh and dry consumption under local conditions. From this comparison of results, it can be concluded that Brown Turkey may be exploited for commercial planting.','-','Manasa Jyothi, Aneesa Rani M.S., Kavino M. and Djanaguiraman M. (2022). Evaluation of Exotic Fig (Ficus carica. L) Cultivars for Pomological Characters. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 14(3): 1652-1654.'),(5550,'136','Estimating Economics of Tissue Culture Banana: A Case of Bharuch District in South Gujarat','Deepa Hiremath, H.H. Mistry, L.R. Dubey and G. Netravathi','283 Estimating Economics of Tissue Culture Banana A Case of Bharuch District in South Gujarat Deepa Hiremath.pdf','',1,'Among the various horticulture crops grown in Bharuch District, banana is a staple fruit crop and is an important avenue for generation of skilled employment as well as self-employment opportunities in both rural and urban areas. For the purpose of our investigation, a sample of 120 respondents were selected by multistage random sampling procedure from the study area. The cost of cultivation and returns were estimated using various cost concepts viz; cost A, cost B, cost C1 and cost C2. The economic analysis of tissue culture banana production revealed that the per hectare total cost of banana cultivation was found to be ` 2,14,192 due to greater use of human labour in various farm operations. The proportionate share of cost-A, cost-B and cost-C1 was 81.28, 88.64 and 90.91 per cent, respectively. The banana growers made a gross return of `5, 92, 954 and net profit of `3, 78,762 per hectare mainly due to the higher bunch weight and better quality of tissue culture bananas. The benefit cost ratio was worked out to be 1.2.77 indicating profitability of tissue culture banana farming enterprise. The constraint analysis revealed that fluctuations in selling price (1st rank), followed by labour scarcity (2nd rank) and damage due to unfavourable weather conditions (3rd rank) were the top three major problems faced by banana growers in the study area.','Tissue culture, cost of cultivation, cost of production, cost concept, returns','An economic analysis of tissue-cultured banana has been presented through studying their costs and returns. The study suggests that tissue-culture banana is a profitable farming enterprise and can play an important role in doubling farmers’ income. The higher yields, bunch weight, better quality, higher prices as well as uniformity in harvesting were the major factors responsible for the higher profitability. Hence, the study suggested that farmers should be encouraged to adopt tissue culture banana to get higher yield and profits.','-','Deepa Hiremath, H.H. Mistry, L.R. Dubey and G. Netravathi (2022). Estimating Economics of Tissue Culture Banana: A Case of Bharuch District in South Gujarat. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 14(3): 1655-1658.'),(5551,'136','Screening of Brassica Genotypes against Alternaria Blight under Northern Indian Shivalik Hill conditions','Sunidhi Tiwari, S. K. Gupta, Harpreet Singh, Om Prakash Yadav and Mukesh Kumar Pandey','284 Screening of Brassica Genotypes against Alternaria Blight under Northern Indian Shivalik Hill conditions Sunidhi Tiwari.pdf','',1,'Brassica napus L. (Oilseed rape) is a very valuable crop for purposes such as food, feed and industrial use. Simultaneously, several diseases have negatively impacted on the oilseed rape production. In Brassicaceae, a fungal disease caused by Alternaria spp. creates a substantial yield loss risk and is considered amongst the censorious global disease complexes. For this, taking into consideration the economic importance of disease, the present study aimed to bring about the information related to various aspects of disease and to find the status as well as the resistant species by screening of Brassica napus varieties. For two years, a study was carried out in the experimental field at SKUAST-Jammu region. Screening of fifteen genotypes of Brassica napus was done for their disease interaction with Alternaria blight disease (leaf and pod) by visual examination by using the 0-9 scale given by Conn et al. (1990). In the first season the Alternaria blight disease intensity ranged from 15.66 to 44.88 on leaf and 13.7 to 37.76 on pod and in the second season the disease intensity ranged from 18.66 to 49.93 on leaf and 24 to 52.87 on pod. None of the varieties were found completely resistant to Alternaria blight disease. RSPN-28 is the only genotype found moderately resistant to both seasons.','Brassica napus, Alternaria, Screening, Resistant, oilseed rape','In the first year, the genotypes (RSPN0-29, RSPN-28, DGS-1, CNH-11-7, GSL-1, CNH-11-2, EC552608, CNH-13-2 and RL-1359 are moderately resistant to Alternaria blight (on leaf) and genotypes (RSPN-29, RSPN-28, DGS-1, RSPN-25, CNH-11-7, EC552608, CNH-13-2, RL-1359 and HNS-1101 found moderately resistant to Alternaria blight (on pod).\r\nIn the second year, the genotypes (RSPN-28 and GSL-1) found moderately resistant Alternaria blight (on leaf) and genotypes (RSPN-28, DGS-1, EC552608 and RL-1359) found moderately resistant Alternaria blight (on pod). Overall, genotype RSPN-28 found moderately resistant in both the year. Therefore, our study suggests the farmers in selection of resistant cultivars and shows the status of Alternaria blight severity so to adopt the suitable disease management strategies for future endeavors.\r\n','-','Sunidhi Tiwari, S. K. Gupta, Harpreet Singh, Om Prakash Yadav and Mukesh Kumar Pandey (2022). Screening of Brassica Genotypes against Alternaria Blight under Northern Indian Shivalik Hill conditions. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 14(3): 1659-1662.'),(5552,'146','Analysis of Correlation and Path coefficients for Yield and its Attributes in CMS Lines and Their F1’s of Rice (Oryza sativa L.)','Ashwani Kumar Singh, Alok Kumar Singh, Tarkeshwar, Anjali Goldy and Shiv Prasad Maurya','4 Analysis of Correlation and Path coefficients for Yield and its Attributes in CMS Lines and Their F1’s of Rice _Oryza sativa L._ Tarkeshwar.pdf','',1,'Rice is the most important crop in India. Currently, it provides 43% of cereal output and 46% of food grain production. India has the greatest area among the countries that grow rice, with 49 million hectares, followed by China. The yield gap in rice needs to be closed to feed the world\'s rapidly expanding population. The use of high-yielding cultivars can make this possible. The complicated trait of seed yield is influenced by several constituent factors. The correlation and path coefficient analyses show how different traits interact with one another. To improve yield, a relevant breeding approach can be used. The present investigation was conducted at Pilikothi Farm of Tilak Dhari Degree College Jaunpur (U.P.) to analyze the amount of association of yield and its attributes and direct and indirect effects of characters on grain yield in CMS lines and their hybrids of rice (Oryza sativa L.) and their hybrids in randomized block design during Kharif 2020. For each replication of the twelve characters, the observations were made on five competing plants of a given genotype that were chosen at random from a plot. Twelve quantitative traits, including seedling height (cm), days to 50% flowering, flag leaf area (cm2), plant height (cm), panicle bearing tillers per plant, panicle length (cm), spikelets per panicle, spikelet fertility (%), test weight (g), biological yield per plant (g), grain yield per plant (g), and harvest-index (%), were observed. The character grain yield per plant exhibited significant positive association with seedling height (cm) (0.200), flag leaf area (cm2) (0.641), panicle bearing tillers per plant (0.550), panicle length (cm) (0.447), spikelets per panicle (0.653), spikelet fertility (%) (0.158), test weight (g) (0.290), biological yield per plant (g) (0.866) and harvest-index (%) (0.196). The path analysis showed that biological yield per plant (1.0172), followed by harvest index, had the biggest positive direct effect on grain yield per plant (0.3489). Except for the harvest index (-0.1411), which had a bad indirect effect on grain output, most of the variables under study had a positive impact on biological yield per plant. The traits highly correlated with grain yield and also have direct and indirect positive effects on yield can be selected for improvement in yield potential of these CMS rice genotypes.','Rice, Oryza sativa, CMS, correlation coefficient, path coefficient, grain yield','Characters from the current study, such as biological yield per plant, harvest index, and number of tillers per plant, showed a positive relationship between grain yield. Additionally, these traits have shown a direct and favourable impact on grain yield, in addition, proven to have a favourable indirect impact on grain production through the other. These CMS rice genotypes can have their yield potential increased by choosing features that are highly associated with grain yield and have both direct and indirect beneficial effects on yield.','-','Ashwani Kumar Singh, Alok Kumar Singh, Tarkeshwar, Anjali Goldy and Shiv Prasad Maurya (2022). Analysis of Correlation and Path coefficients for Yield and its Attributes in CMS Lines and Their F1’s of Rice (Oryza sativa L.). Biological Forum – An International Journal, 14(3): 19-23.'),(5553,'146','GAM 8: A New High yielding MYMV Virus Resistant Variety for Middle Gujarat','M.P. Patel, Deep Kumar, K.V. Patel, V.K. Chaudhary and A.S. Bhanvadia','5 GAM 8 A New High yielding MYMV Virus Resistant Variety for Middle Gujarat M.P. Patel.pdf','',1,'In middle Gujarat, Mungbam Yellow Mosaic Virus (MYMV) disease was a major destructive disease observed in summer season and it serious and open spread ultimately heavy loss in yield. A new high yielding MYMV resistant Mungbean variety GAM 8 is developed through pedigree method of cross between Meha × GM 4 at RRS, AAU, Anand and tested as ANDGG 1301 in trial and was tested 20 times in different trials. ANDGG 1301 recorded average yield over seasons and locations is 1106 kg/ha which is 46.4, 6.5, 18.9 and 14.3 per cent yield increase over the check varieties viz., GM 4, Meha, GAM 5 & GM 6, respectively in state trials. It was recorded 1171 kg/ha seed yield which was 46.4, 6.5, 18.9 and 14.3 per cent higher over GM 4, Meha, GAM 5 & GM 6, respectively under middle Gujarat trials. The proposed genotype ANDGG 1301 has semi erect plant type, medium maturity, more branches and pod, dark green leaf with purple vein, medium-sized, shining green seeds. It has high protein content and resistant to MYMV, LCV (%), anthracnose and powdery mildew disease. This variety is notified for Gujarat with notification number SO.4065E dated 31-8-2012.','GAM 8, Mungbean, MYMV, Summer, Yield','High yielding ANDGG 1301 has a determinate growth habit, matures in 65–75 days (medium group), and has medium-sized, shining green seeds. It has high protein content and resistant to MYMV disease. Looking at the above characters, Gujarat Anand Mungbean 8 (GAM8: Haramoti) has been released by the Central Sub-Committee on Crop Standards for farmers in middle Gujarat during the summer season. Notification and Release of Variety vide notification number SO.4065E dated 31-8-2012. ','-','M.P. Patel, Deep Kumar, K.V. Patel, V.K. Chaudhary and A.S. Bhanvadia (2022). GAM 8: A New High yielding MYMV Virus Resistant variety for Middle Gujarat. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 14(4): 24-30.'),(5554,'146','Effect of Integrated Nutrient Management on Growth and Yield Characteristics of Cauliflower (Brassica oleracea var. botrytis L.) cv. Snow Crown','Chiranjibi Thapa, Shiwanand Pandey, Virendra Kumar and Manoj Kumar','6 Effect of Integrated Nutrient Management on Growth and Yield characteristics of Cauliflower _Brassica oleracea var. botrytis L._ cv. Snow Crown Shiwanand Pandey.pdf','',1,'The modern cultivated cauliflower (Brassica oleracea L. var. botrytis) is one of the most important, vegetable and nutritious vegetable for the world. Increasing need for enhanced crop productivity due to ever increasing population necessitates adequate amount of plant nutrition. Integrated Nutrient Management involves judicious use of organic, inorganic and microbial sources in such a way that it sustains optimum yield, improves and maintains the soil physical, chemical and biological properties, which can bring about equilibrium between degenerative and restorative activates in the soil environment. A field experiment was carried out At the Department of Horticulture, Baba Farid Group of Institute of Management and Technology, Dehradun (U.K.)-248007 (India), during October 2020 to February 2021 to assess the growth and yield characteristics of cauliflower (Brassica olearaceaceae L.) botrytis cv. Snow crown. There were 8 treatments comparing control T1, T2 (recommended dose of NPK (150:100:80 kg/ha), T3 (half dose of NPK/ha+FYM@15 t/ha), T4, (half dose of NPK/ ha + Vermicompost @ 2.5 t/ha + FYM @ 15 t/ha), T5 (Half dose NPK/ha + Vermicompost @ 2.5 t/ha + Azospirillium @ 5 kg/ha), T6 (Half dose NPK/ha + VAM @ 5 kg/ha), T7 (half dose NPK/ha + FYM @15 tons/ha + Azosprilliun @5 kg/ha), T8 (half dose NPK/ha + Azospirillium @ 5 kg/ha). result cm) plant spread (44.30 cm), curd diameter (19.96 cm), curd weight per plant (1002.63 g), curd yield per plot (9.31 kg) and curd weight per hectare (31.04 t/ha) were observed at half the dose. NPK/ha + Vermicompost @ 2.5 t/ha + Azospirillium @ 5 kg revealed that the highest plant height (59.42 cm), number of leaves (16.28), leaf length (49.02 /ha (T5). half dose of NPK/ha + Vermicompost @ 2.5 t/ha + Azospirillium @ 5 kg/ha to increase growth and yield of cauliflower.','Azospirillium, FYM, Treatments VAM, Yield','Based on the results, of this study it can be realized that among the treatments on cauliflower application half dose of NPK/ha + Vermicompost @ 2.5 tonnes/ha + Azospirillium @ 5 kg/ha (T5) was found to be best for growth and yield of the cauliflower. Application half dose of NPK/ha + Vermicompost @ 2.5 tonnes/ha + Azospirillium @ 5 kg/ha (T5) was found effective in improving plant height, number of leaves per plant, spread of plant, curd diameter, curd weight, yield per plot and yield per hectare. The application half dose of NPK/ha + Vermicompost @ 2.5 tonnes/ha + Azospirillium @ 5 kg/ha (T5) for growth and yield of cauliflower. It was found to be most remunerative for farmers.From this study it can be recommend that the application of INM at half dose of NPK/ha + Vermicompost @ 2.5 tonnes/ha + Azospirillium @ 5 kg/ha can be applied to obtain maximum yield of Cauliflower variety Snow crown.','-','Chiranjibi Thapa, Shiwanand Pandey, Virendra Kumar and Manoj Kumar (2022). Effect of Integrated Nutrient Management on Growth and Yield characteristics of Cauliflower (Brassica oleracea var. botrytis L.) cv. Snow Crown. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 14(4): 31-39.'),(5555,'146','Field Screening of Chilli Leaf Spot caused by Alternaria alternata and the effect of Weather Parameters on the Development of the Disease','Shailja Goswami and Shubham Mishra','7 Field Screening of Chilli Leaf Spot caused by Alternaria alternata and the effect of Weather Parameters on the Development of the Disease Shubham Mishra.pdf','',1,'Chilli is well known for its multipurpose functions and good nutritive value to the World. Several fungal, bacterial and viral diseases render chilli production at stake. In this present investigation, the screening of the most known disease of chilli that is its leaf spot caused by Alternaria alternata was done in and around Jabalpur district of Madhya Pradesh to calculate its per cent disease incidence in the given regions. Because the chilli crop is one of India\'s most stable spice crops and is plagued by pathogens, primarily fungi, adequate management is required. During the survey done in and around Jabalpur, the percent disease incidence ranged from 20% to 40%, according to the studies. Following the screening, the fungus pathogen was identified by isolating it and developing its pathogenicity test in both in vivo and in vitro conditions. The following were the findings: The pathogen generates white, cottony colonies with profusely expanding aerial mycelium that eventually turns grey, according to the cultural features. On the PDA medium, old civilizations have recognizable concentric rings. Conidiophores, which are olivaceous to brown in colour and simple to branching, are produced by the fungal pathogen. Conidia were produced in chains with transverse and longitudinal septa. The pathogenicity test shows that the symptoms start appearing from the older leaves and Alternaria readily produces symptoms on the inoculated leaves as small, circular necrotic spots having concentric rings in the centre of the spots. Analyzing illness development with meteorological factors revealed that disease development begins at temperatures ranging from 25°C to 35°C, with the most visible impacts at 28°C, and relative humidity also plays a vital role in disease development ranging from 70% to 90%. The observed disease incidence ranged from 2.50 percent to 12.67 percent.','Alternaria alternata ,Chilli leaf spot, Disease incidence , Screening, , Survey, Weather parameter','According to the cultural traits, the pathogen forms white, cottony colonies with profusely developing aerial mycelium that eventually turns grey. Old civilizations had distinct concentric rings on the PDA medium. Conidiophores, which are olivaceous to brown in color and simple to branching, are produced by the fungal pathogen. Conidia were generated in chains with transverse and longitudinal septa. The pathogenicity test reveals that symptoms occur on older leaves first, and Alternaria rapidly produces symptoms on infected leaves as small, circular necrotic spots with concentric rings in the centre of the spots. Analyzing illness development with climatic conditions indicated that disease development begins at temperatures ranging from 25°C to 35°C, with the most evident consequences at 28°C, and relative humidity also plays a role. Using meteorological elements to analyze illness development indicated that disease development begins at temperatures ranging from 25°C to 35°C, with the most evident consequences at 28°C, and relative humidity also plays a crucial part in disease development ranging from 70% to 90%. The observed illness incidence ranged between 2.50 and 12.67 percent.','-','Shailja Goswami and Shubham Mishra (2022). Field Screening of Chilli Leaf Spot caused by Alternaria alternata and the Effect of Weather Parameters on the Development of the Disease. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 14(3): 40-46.'),(5556,'146','Screening of Shoot Fly Resistance in M5 Generation of Sorghum (Sorghum bicolor (L.) Moench)','Khaja Mohinuddin D., G. Girish, M.B. Ashok, Suvarna, L.N. Yogeesh, M.R. Govindappa, Anand Kumar V. and Ravi Kumar A.','8 Screening of Shoot Fly Resistance in M5 Generation of Sorghum _Sorghum bicolor _L._ Moench_ Khaja Mohinuddin D.pdf','',1,'The present investigation was carried to screen 200 mutant lines against shoot fly incidence in augmented block design at Agricultural Research Station, Hagari. In sorghum production shoot fly incidence is the major biotic constraints, which attacks crop at the seedling stage and causes losses of yield and fodder. The screening results revealed that 32 mutant lines shown highly resistance reaction compared to resistant check IS-2312 (14.29), among them six mutant lines showed zero percentage of dead heart per cent. These mutant lines exhibited comparatively lower number of eggs per plant and minimum dead heart formation. 8 mutant lines shown highly resistance response to seedling vigour and 6 mutant lines shown highly resistance to glossiness score traits. In order to attain uniform shoot fly pressure under field conditions the interlard-fish meal technique was followed for present experiment. These resistant lines can be used for further confirmation and also for future resistant breeding programmes.','Dead heart, Oviposition, Shoot fly, Sorghum','The present experiment was conducted to identify mutant lines, which were resistant to shoot fly attack. Study revealed that among 200 mutant lines six lines viz., PV-RD-33, PV-RD-30, PV-RD-29, PV-RD-41, PV-RD-13 and PV-9 showed resistant to shoot fly component characters viz., oviposition, dead heart, glossiness and seedling vigour compared to resistant check IS-2312 (Resistance) under interland fish-meal technique conditions. These six mutant lines were promising lines to reduce shoot fly infestation, so these lines can be used for further confirmation and future tolerance breeding programs.','-','Khaja Mohinuddin D., G. Girish, M.B. Ashok, Suvarna, L.N. Yogeesh, M.R. Govindappa, Anand Kumar V. and Ravi Kumar A. (2022). Screening of Shoot Fly Resistance in M5 Generation of Sorghum (Sorghum bicolor (L.) Moench). Biological Forum – An International Journal, 14(4): 47-54.'),(5557,'146','Eco-friendly Post Harvest Management of Pectobacterium caratovora subsp. caratovora causing Bacterial Soft rot of Carrot in Meghalaya, India','Ashwini E., Nandeesha S.V. and Sakthi Priya P.','9 Eco-friendly Post Harvest Management of Pectobacterium caratovora subsp. caratovora causing Bacterial Soft rot of Carrot in Meghalaya, India Ashwini E.pdf','',1,'Carrot (Daucus carota L.) is one of the most important and widely grown root vegetables in Meghalaya and ranks among the top-ten important vegetable crops, in terms of both area of production and market value. Bacterial soft rot is the major postharvest disease of vegetables and reported losses up to 15-30%. It is having broad host range causes severe post-harvest loss during transits and storage. An eco-friendly post-harvest management was undertaken to manage the bacterial soft rot with the combination of potential Bacillus subtilis isolates, botanicals, post harvest salts and packaging materials on severity of bacterial soft rot. Eight potential Bacillus subtilis isolates (Bs110, Bs216, Bs167, Bs190, Bs174, Bs217, Bs219 and COB5Y1) were tested against soft rot pathogen by paper diffusion disc method. Among them the isolate B216 measured with highest (16.3mm) zone of inhibition, followed by Bs190 (15.1mm). In-vitro evaluation of botanicals (neem, beetlevine, garlic, vetiver and aloe vera) at three different concentration (3%, 5% and 10%) was evaluated. Among them garlic at 10% was showed most effective botanical with 10.8mm inhibition zone, followed by neem (8.83mm) at 10%. Among the tested postharvest salts (sodium bicarbonate, ammonium bicarbonate sodium hypochlorite and acetic acid) at different concentration, sodium hypochlorite at 5% concentration was showed maximum zone of inhibition (12.17mm) followed by ammonium bicarbonate (11.7mm ) at 3%. Among the packaging material (net bag, gunny bag, perforated polythene bag and bamboo box), net bag was found most effective with less severity of (8.51%), followed by gunny bag with (10.52%) of severity. Among the integrated treatments (sodium hypochlorite and net bag combination) was found effective in reducing soft rot severity of 6.80%, followed by garlic and net bag combination with 7.7% severity. Garlic, Sodium hypochlorite and Net bag in alone and in combination were found most effective and promising in preventing the post harvest losses caused by Pectobacterium caratovora subsp. caratovora in both transits and storage. ','Botanicals, Carrot, Meghalaya Post harvest salts and Pectobacterium caratovora subsp. Caratovora','From the present investigation it could be concluded that P. caratovora subsp. caratovora was the major pathogen associated with postharvest bacterial soft rot of carrot. It was found that Bacillus subtilis, Garlic, Sodium hypochlorite and Net bag at different concentration and combination could be the promising treatments against P. caratovora subsp. caratovora causing bacterial soft rot of carrot. Garlic, Sodium hypochlorite and net bag are good components in integrated postharvest disease management of carrot in Meghalaya. Further studies is needed to be done in in vivo conditions to see the results which found effective in in vitro conditions for adoption of best management practice for preventing the pre and post harvest loss of carrot in field and storage and to increase the income of farmers. This eco-friendly management practices can be widely adopted in larger area for the prevention of post-harvest losses in storage.','-','Ashwini E., Nandeesha S.V. and Sakthi Priya P. (2022). Eco-friendly post harvest management of Pectobacterium caratovora subsp. caratovora causing bacterial soft rot of carrot in Meghalaya, India. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 14(4): 55-63.'),(5558,'146','Awareness and Consumption of Millets among School Children in Rural and Urban Areas of Telangana State, India','Alam Prashanthi, R. Geetha Reddy, R. Neela Rani, T. Sucharitha Devi and A. Meena','10 Awareness and Consumption of Millets among School Children in Rural and Urban Areas of Telangana State, India Alam Prashanthi.pdf','',1,'Millet production and consumption has declined over the years due to various factors. The change in dietary practices resulted in nutritional disorders and other health problems. Recently, millets have gained popularity due to its health advantages and low agriculture inputs, less irrigation facilities, ability to mitigate climate change and capacity for food and nutritional security. To understand the present scenario of millet awareness and consumption, a study was conducted in Telangana state. The present study aimed to assess the millet awareness and consumption among school children in rural and urban areas of Telangana state. A cross-sectional design was adopted and questionnaires were employed to examine millet awareness and consumption among rural and urban areas of Mahabubnagar and Medak districts in Telangana state were selected. Students in the 8thand 9thgrades from rural (n=160) and urban (n=160) areas in both districts were recruited for the study. To find the association between categorical variables a Chi-square test was used. It was found that more than half of the respondents (56.25%) stated that they were aware of millets, whereas the remaining 43.75% stated that they were unaware of millets. It was also observed that out of 56.25% of school children who reported being aware of millets, 23.75% stated that they were aware of sorghum, pearl millet and finger millet. There was a significant association between millet awareness and consumption among school children in rural and urban areas at 5% level. These results suggested that awareness on millets contribute in millet consumption among the school children. Therefore, nutrition education on millets needs to be undertaken to create awareness among the students, thus, it may further can help in millet consumption.','millets, millet awareness, millet consumption, school children, Telangana','According to our knowledge, this is the first research study to analyze the awareness and consumption of millets among schoolchildren. The main aim of this study was to understand the factors contributing to millet awareness in both rural and urban school children. The results revealed that awareness on millets contributed in the millet consumption. The study suggested that millets should be actively promoted, and nutrition education on millets should be implemented to raise awareness among schoolchildren, thus, it may further help in millet consumption. It also brought into light that more research needs to be carried out in creating awareness among school children. The study suggests future research on millet nutrition education via various media channels, knowledge development on the significance of millets, and interventions to change people\'s attitudes toward millet consumption.','-','Alam Prashanthi, R. Geetha Reddy, R. Neela Rani, T. Sucharitha Devi and A. Meena (2022). Awareness and Consumption of Millets among School Children in Rural and Urban Areas of Telangana State, India. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 14(4): 64-70.'),(5559,'146','Genotype × Environment Interaction for Yield and Yield Determining Traits in Green Gram (Vigna radiata (L.) Wilczek)','Amarnath Dabaria, Varsha Kumari, Shyam Singh Rajput, Priyanka Kumawat, Ram Kunwar, D.K. Gothwal, Bhuri Singh, R.P. Ghasoliya, D.K. Jajoria, Anju Nehra and Poonam Kumari','11 Genotype × Environment Interaction for Yield and Yield Determining Traits in Green Gram _Vigna radiata _L._ Wilczek_ Varsha Kumari.pdf','',1,'Twenty-five green gram (Vigna radiata) genotypes representing diversity in characters were assessed with 3 replications in Randomized Block Design (RBD). Environment wise data on each character for all the genotypes had been subjected to pooled analysis of variance and joint regression analysis was done for each genotype in each environment to assess the environment + (genotypes × environment) effects. The pooled analysis of variance showed highly significant differences among genotypes for all the characters. The environmental effects were highly significant for all the characters and genotype × environment (G × E) interactions were significant for all the characters except pods per plant. Analysis of variance for each character was done in each environment. The replication mean sum of squares was non-significant in all the three environments for all the characters. The significant difference between genotypes was observed for all the characters in each environment. As per environmental indices, E3 (-1.92) was most favorable and E1 (2.45) was least favorable for days to 50% flowering and days to maturity. Remaining characters, like plant height, branches per plant, clusters per plant, pods per cluster, pods per plant, pod length, seeds per pod, seed yield per plant and test weight the most favorable environment was E1 and least favorable environment was E3. The environment (linear) became significant for all the characters except clusters per plant. The genotypes × environment (linear) component were significant for days to 50% flowering, pods per cluster, seed yield per plant and test weight. Pooled deviation was significant for days to 50% flowering, days to maturity, plant height and clusters per plant.','Green gram, Environment, Genotype × Environment interaction, Yield, Variance','Stability analysis in green gram was done to find the widely adapted genotypes in various environments where environment I was most suitable and environment III was least. The environmental effects were highly significant for all the characters and genotype x environment (G × E) interactions were also significant for most of the characters. This study was helpful in finding stable genotypes of green gram for yield and yield determining characters.','-','Amarnath Dabaria, Varsha Kumari, Shyam Singh Rajput, Priyanka Kumawat, Ram Kunwar, D.K. Gothwal, Bhuri Singh, R.P. Ghasoliya, D.K. Jajoria, Anju Nehra and Poonam Kumari (2022). Genotype × Environment Interaction for Yield and Yield Determining Traits in Green Gram (Vigna radiata (L.) Wilczek). Biological Forum – An International Journal, 14(4): 71-75.'),(5560,'146','Field Efficacy of Selected Newer Insecticide Molecules on Spodoptera frugiperda (J. E. Smith) in Maize','M.V. Matti, C.P. Mallapur, D.N. Kambrekar, S.I. Harlapur and U.K. Hulihalli','12 Field Efficacy of Selected Newer Insecticide Molecules on Spodoptera frugiperda _J. E. Smith_ in Maize M.V. Matti.pdf','',1,'The combinations may be physically incompatible, effect the bio efficacy, result in phytotoxic effects or aid in insecticide resistance development in pests and injudicious use of pesticides in combinations without proper knowledge may reduce the efficacy of the combinations in managing the pests and diseases. The combinations include physically incompatible, effect the bio efficacy, result in phytotoxic effects or aid in insecticide resistance development in pests. Injudicious use of pesticides in combinations without proper knowledge may reduce the efficacy of the combinations in managing the pests and diseases. A field experiment was carried out at Main Agricultural Research Station (MARS), College of Agriculture, Dharwad, UAS, Dharwad, to study the efficacy of new generation insecticides and fungicides alone and in combination against maize fall armyworm Spodoptera frugiperda (J.E. Smith). It is a severe polyphagous pest with a wide host range of 186 plant species including many economically important crops such as maize, sorghum, sugarcane, rice, wheat, cowpea, groundnut, potato, soybean and cotton. Adult moths can travel up to 500 km during a single season to seek out oviposition sites and can fly over 100 km for seeking the host plants. The treatments comprising of eight newer insecticide molecules and three bio pesticides were further evaluated under field conditions during late kharif of 2019-20 and 2020-21 at Main Agricultural Research Station, Dharwad. The trial was conducted in Randomized Block Design (RBD) with twelve treatments and three replications. The popular maize hybrid, NK-6240 was sown over plot size of 5 × 4 m at a spacing of 60 × 20 cm for each treatment. The crop was raised as per recommended packages including plant protection measures except for target pest. Application of different treatments was done two times (at 30 and 50 days of germination) using knapsack sprayer by directing the spray solution into leaf whorls. The highest efficacy was found in newer insecticide molecules, cyantraniliprole 10 OD @ 0.30 g/l and spinetoram 11.7 SC @ 0.50 ml/l treatments causing cent per cent larval mortality within 3 days of application. By 7th day, more than 80 per cent larval mortality was registered in all other chemical treatments as compared to less than 50 per cent in case of biopesticides. All chemical treatments in general recorded lower leaf damage than biopesticide treatments which were even at par with the untreated check. Spinetoram 11.7 SC spray @ 0.5 ml/l resulted in highest grain yield which was at par with cyantraniliprole 10 OD @ 0.3 ml/l. Lower yields were obtained from the plots which received biopesticides application. ','Spodoptera frugiperda, spinetoram, cyantraniliprole, chlorantraniliprole, nimbecidine, Bacillus thuringiensis var. kurstaki','Application of cyantraniliprole 10 OD @ 0.30 g/l and spinetoram 11.7 SC @ 0.50 ml/l resulted treatments resulted in cent per cent larval mortality while, the biopesticides caused less than 50 per cent mortality of FAW in field conditions.','-','M.V. Matti, C.P. Mallapur, D.N. Kambrekar, S.I. Harlapur and U.K. Hulihalli (2022). Field Efficacy of Selected Newer Insecticide Molecules on Spodoptera frugiperda (J. E. Smith) in Maize. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 14(4): 76-82.'),(5561,'146','Influence of Foliar Application of NAA, GA3 and Zinc Sulphate on Fruiting and Yield Attributes of Ber (Zizyphus mauritiana Lamk.)','Sumit Kumar Tripathi, Vishal Gangwar*, Deepak Kumar, Ravi Pratap, Om Pal, Nitin Kumar Chouhan and S.M. Tripathi','13 Influence of Foliar Application of NAA, GA3 and Zinc Sulphate on Fruiting and Yield Attributes of Ber _Zizyphus mauritiana Lamk._ Vishal Gangwar.pdf','',1,'The present experiment was conducted at the Horticulture Garden, Department of Fruit Science, College of Horticulture, of Chandra Shekhar Azad University of Agriculture and Technology, Kanpur (U.P.) during October 2019-March 2020. Well established healthy and uniform trees of Ber cultivar Banarasi Karaka The experiment comprised 9 treatments consisting of foliar spray of GA3, NAA, Zinc Sulphate and control These treatments are as Follow- T0 Control (water spray), T1 (GA3 @0 ppm), T2 (GA3 @20 ppm), T3 (NAA @30 ppm), T4 (NAA @40 ppm), T5 (ZnSO4 @0.4%), T6 (ZnSO4 @0.6%), T7 (GA3 @10ppm + NAA 30ppm + ZnSO4 .04%), T8 (GA3 @20ppm + NAA @40ppm + ZnSO4 @.06%). NAA 40ppm (T4) at fruit setting stage proved significantly effective in increasing fruit weight, length of fruit, fruit volume and reducing fruit drop. and the yield attributes were however, improved with ZnSO4 0.6% (T6) and NAA 40ppm +GA3 20ppm +ZnSO4 0.6%(T8). NAA, GA3 and micronutrients Zn is very effective but spraying of NAA 40ppm hastened fruiting, yielding attributes.','GA3, NAA, ZINC, BER, Drop and Retention','From the present investigation it can be concluded that NAA 40ppm (T4) at fruit setting stage proved significantly effective in increasing fruit weight, length of fruit, fruit volume and reducing fruit drop. and the yield attributes were however, improved with ZnSO4 0.6%(T6) and NAA 40ppm + GA3 20ppm + ZnSO4 0.6%(T8). These results obtained in present investigation in my own research and this is unique and very useful for research workers, orchard owner and farmer of central U.P. So, I would like to suggest the concerning people that spraying of growth regulators i.e. NAA, GA3 and micronutrients Zn is very effective but spraying of NAA 40ppm hastened fruiting, yielding attributes.','-','Sumit Kumar Tripathi, Vishal Gangwar, Deepak Kumar, Ravi Pratap, Om Pal, Nitin Kumar Chouhan and S.M. Tripathi (2022). Influence of Foliar Application of NAA, GA3 and Zinc Sulphate on Fruiting and Yield Attributes of Ber (Zizyphus mauritiana Lamk.). Biological Forum – An International Journal, 14(4): 83-87.'),(5562,'107','Effect of Planting Techniques and Organic Amendments on the Management of Fusarium Wilt of Common Bean','Tabasia Amin, Sheikh Saima Khushboo and Dechan Choskit','214 Effect of Planting Techniques and Organic Amendments on the Management of Fusarium Wilt of Common Bean Tabasia Amin.pdf','',1,'Fusarium wilt is the most serious disease of common bean causing 10 to15 per cent yield losses each year. It is a soil-borne fungal disease where water conducting (xylem) vessels become blocked. Based on morpho-cultural characters fungal pathogen isolated from infected roots of bean plant was identified as Fusarium oxysporum f.sp. phaseoli (Kendrick and Synder). Microscopic examination revealed mycelium as septate producing micro-macro conidia. The isolated fungus was put to pathogenicity test. The pathogenicity of the isolated fungus was proving by Koch’s postulates. Organic amendments like vermicompost @ 12.5 q ha-1+ seed priming with Trichoderma harzianum (109 cfu ml-1), FYM @ 20 t ha-1 + seed priming with Trichoderma harzianum (109 cfu ml-1), Vermicompost @ 12.5 q ha-1 and FYM @ 20t ha-1 along with planting techniques viz., ridges, raised bed and flat bed was tested against Fusarium oxysporum to manage the disease in field conditions. Vermicompost @ 12.5 q ha-1 + seed priming with Trichoderma harzianum (109cfu ml-1) along with raised bed combination was used. The most effective treatment combination i.e. vermicompost @ 12.5 q ha-1 + seed priming with Trichoderma harzianum (109 cfu ml-1) exhibiting minimum disease incidence (16.42 %) was obtained when compared to control having 49.63 per cent disease incidence.','Fusarium wilt, common bean, incidence, Trichoderma harzianum, organic amendment, planting technique','Under natural conditions, the disease symptoms first appeared on lower leaves in first week of August as yellowing of lower leaves followed by drying of the leaves, drooping of petioles and when stem was split open, reddish brown discolouration of the xylem vessels was noticed. \r\nFungus isolated from infected roots of wilted common bean plants was tested for pathogenicity test by root dip inoculation techniques. The pathogenicity of the isolated fungus was established by proving Koch’s postulates. The culture of the pathogen produced characteristic disease symptoms after 16-20 days of inoculation. Therefore, pathogen was reisolated on potato dextrose agar medium and incubated at 25±1oC. The pathogen was found pathogenic on common bean and was identified as Fusarium oxysporum f.sp. phaseoli. \r\nThe fungus produced colonies that were observed to be circular having white colour, cottony with profuse, fluffy aerial mycelium which gradually turned light pinkish, grayish white or creamish white. The mycelium is septate and hyaline with hyphal width 1.5-2 µm. The microconidia ranged from 2.5-(3.2)-3.5 × 7.0-(9.5)-13.0 µm. Macroconidia varied between 3.0-(3.5)-4.0 × 28-(33.5)-40 µm. Microconidia were aseptate. Macroconidia were septate with 4-5 septa. Chlamydospores were produced 12-15 days after incubation in cultures. They were globose, single celled, aseptae, produced terminally or intercalary with 8.210.5 × 6.60-9.90 μm size. On the basis of morphological characteristics of conidia, the pathogen was identified as Fusarium oxysporum f.sp. phaseoli. The culture was sent to the ITCC at IARI in New Delhi, and the identity of the isolate was confirmed as Fusarium oxysporum f.sp. phaseoli (Kendrick and Synder) under accession No. 12, 770;18. \r\nStudies on the effect of planting techniques and organic amendments on the management of Fusarium wilt of common bean revealed that vermicompost @ 12.5 q ha-1 + seed priming with Trichoderma harzianum was found to be most effective treatment exhibiting minimum disease incidence of l6.42 per cent followed by FYM @ 20 t ha-1 + seed priming with Trichoderma harzianum showed incidence of 22.21 per cent as compared to negative control plot having 49.63 per cent incidence. This was followed by vermicompost @ 12.5 q ha-1 + seed priming with Trichoderma harzianum and FYM @ 20 t ha-1 + seed priming with Trichoderma harzianum sown in ridges exhibiting 20.40 per cent and 24.01 per cent disease incidence respectively. \r\nMinimum per cent disease incidence was recorded in Trichoderma harzianum + vermicompost, which was at par with Trichoderma harzianum + FYM and was significantly superior over rest of the treatments including negative control. \r\n Among the treatments used, vermicompost @ 12.5 q ha-1 + seed priming with Trichoderma harzianum (109 cfu ml-1). Among the interaction vermicompost @ 12.5 q ha-1 + seed priming with Trichoderma harzianum (109 cfu ml-1) along with raised beds exhibited highest per cent disease control over negative control. This was followed by vermicompost @ 12.5 q ha-1 + seed priming with Trichoderma harzianum (109 cfu ml-1) along with ridges.\r\n The highest numbers of pods per plant was recorded in the treatment vermicompost @ 12.5 q ha-1 + seed priming with Trichoderma harzianum (109 cfu ml-1) when seeds were sown on raised bed (20.41) and vermicompost @ 12.5 q ha-1 + seed priming with Trichoderma harzianum (109 cfu ml-1) when seeds were sown on ridges (19.66) compared with other treatments. \r\n The highest numbers of seeds per pod was recorded in the treatment vermicompost @ 12.5 q ha-1 + seed priming with Trichoderma harzianum (109 cfu ml-1) when seeds were sown on raised bed (7.16) and vermicompost @ 12.5 q ha-1 + seed priming with Trichoderma harzianum (109 cfu ml-1) when seeds were sown on ridges (6.91) compared with other treatments. \r\nThe highest seed yield was recorded in the treatment vermicompost @ 12.5 q ha-1 + seed priming with Trichoderma harzianum (109 cfu ml-1) when seeds were sown on raised bed (13.1 q ha-1) and vermicompost @ 12.5 q ha-1 + seed priming with Trichoderma harzianum (109 cfu ml-1) when seeds were sown on ridges (12.4 q ha-1) compared with other treatments. \r\n','-','Tabasia Amin, Sheikh Saima Khushboo and Dechan Choskit (2021). Effect of Planting Techniques and Organic Amendments on the Management of Fusarium Wilt of Common Bean. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 13(4): 1311-1322.'),(5563,'146','Effect of different Dietary Protein Level on Growth of Mud Crab Scylla serrata (Forsskal, 1755) Reared in Bamboo Baskets in Brackish water Pond in Saurashtra of Gujarat state','Olakiya V.V. and Kotiya A.S.','14 Effect of different Dietary Protein Level on Growth of Mud Crab Scylla serrata _Forsskal, 1755_ Reared in Bamboo Baskets in Brackish water Pond in Saurashtra of Gujarat state.pdf','',1,'A growth performance of mud crab Scylla serrata was taken up for 60 days, where different dietary protein% levels was prepared with 15%, 25%, 35% and 45%. Experiment was conducted at Fisheries Research & Training Center, Kamdhenu University, Mahuva taluka of Bhavnagar district in order to observe the following attributes: protein feed, growth, survival rate, production and water quality parameters. The crab was reared in bamboo basket (2 × 1 × 1 ft) stocked with 20 number of juveniles crab/ basket with four replicate. Four treatment of different dietary protein% feed was formulated with 15, 25, 35 and 45 and was fed @5% body weight for 60 days, the initial average body weight of juveniles crab was 19.4±1.95g respectively. There was statistically significant differences (P<0.05) among the treatment with mean weight gain (g), ADG, SGR, biomass (kg), FCR, and survival% recorded was 19.46±1.24, 22.4±2.88, 28.9±2.47, 33.78±2.06 and 0.33±0.02, 0.37±0.05, 0.48±0.04, 0.56±0.03 and 4.94±0.11, 5.17±0.21, 5.61±0.15, 5.86±0.10 and 0.34±0.04, 0.44±0.12, 0.15±0.04, 0.66±0.06 and 3.61±0.52, 3.12±0.66, 2.72±0.08, 2.13±0.18 and 43.7±6.2, 52.5±13.23, 57.5±12.5, 62.5±6.45 respectively. Better performance of mud crab Scylla serrata was recorded 45% protein diet followed by 35%, the crab were very active and healthy. Water parameter during the rearing period in all the treatment was conducive. Almost all crab were found hiding under provided hideout during feeding hours and when feed was applied, it start darting for food. Higher yield was obtain from 45% protein formulated feed with compare to all other treatment. Most favored water quality for crab is 20-30 cm turbid with dim light. ','Crab, bamboo basket, protein diet, growth, survival, production.','From the results of these trials, the prepared formulated diets could be used for mud crab farming and enhance the scope for developing nutritionally balanced feed. The study also reduced the demand for “trash \" fish. In the reality of farming, the farmers may not get or use the best quality trash fish for their daily feeding. Variable quality of trash fish is an increasing problem which also implies that nutritional value may be different on a day to day basis. Whereas as selected formulated diets have a more reliable, nutritionally complete feed based on the requirement of the mud crabs. For the research community, these findings will provide some basic formulation and methodology formulated pelleted diets. With which to further additional lines of experimentation for improvement of selected. Therefore, based on the results obtained from the present study it is concluded that the 45% crude protein diet is recommended for best growth of juveniles Scylla serrata. Scylla serrata have enhanced growth performance, feed utilization and healthy flesh quality which shown their potential as aqua feed ingredient.','-','Olakiya V. and Kotiya A.S. (2022). Effect of Different Dietary Protein Level on Growth of Mud Crab Scylla Serrata (Forsskal, 1755) Reared in Bamboo Baskets in Brackishwater Pond in Saurashtra region of Gujarat state. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 14(4): 88-100.'),(5564,'146','Investigation of Correlation and Regression Analysis and Crop Weather Relationships in Three different varieties of Chickpea under Coastal Agro-Ecosystem of Andhra Pradesh','A. Suryakala, V. Radha Krishna Murthy and M. Sree Rekha','15 Investigation of Correlation and Regression Analysis and Crop Weather Relationships in Three different varieties of Chickpea A. Suryakala.pdf','',1,'Understanding the relationships between chickpea (Cicer arietinum L.) yield, yield components and weather health indices is critical to identify the desirable varieties suitable to various climatic conditions. This research was done in order to investigate the relationships between grain yield, yield attributes and weather health indices by using correlation and regression analysis. A 5 × 3 factorial experiment in randomized complete block design (RCBD) format with three replications was conducted in the research field of the Acharya NG Ranga Agricultural University, Agricultural college, Bapatla during rabi season of 2018 to 2019. Treatments allocated were five sowing dates (2nd fortnight of October, 1st and 2nd fortnight of November, 1st fortnight of December) and three chickpea varieties (NBeG-47, NBeG-49, NBeG-119). The results revealed that grain yield and yield components of chickpea are significantly affected by both sowing date and cultivar. The correlation co-efficient analysis indicated that the seed yield of chickpea varieties was significantly influenced by the harvest index, drymatter, seed index, number of branches per plant, number of pods per plant, number of seeds per pod and days to maturity except for plant height and haulm yield. Regression equations indicated significant linear relationship for both total drymatter and seed yield of all the three varieties with climatic normals/weather health indices viz., GDD, HTU, PTU, PTI, TPR, HUE, HtUE and PtUE. Statistical models for yield prediction were developed for all the three varieties of chickpea by using Step down regression analysis. Significant linear relationship was noticed for all the three varieties of chickpea and found that rainfall during reproductive stage, maximum and minimum temperature during vegetative and reproductive stage and relative humidity at evening for both reproductive and maturity stages were found to have significantly linear relationship with the yield for all the three varieties of chickpea.','Chickpea, Correlation, Regression, Weather health indices','The statistical models for weather resilient yield prediction of the chickpea varieties tested through regression equations were found to have significant linear relation with yield. Linear regression equations were developed between total drymatter and seed yield as dependent variables and weather health indices viz., GDD, PTU, PTI, HTU, HUE, HtUE, PtUE and TPR as independent variables, for all five different dates of sowing and three varieties. Significant linear relationship was observed for both total drymatter and seed yield for all the three varieties of chickpea with weather health indices. The highest values of co-efficient of determination (R2) for all the three varieties indicated that the production of drymatter and seed yield depended heavily on all these weather health indices. This indicates that these regression equations can be applied to predict chickpea growth and yield by using daily recorded data of temperature, relative humidity, photoperiod, day length and sunshine hours during the crop season.\r\nThe seed yield of chickpea varieties can be predicted with weather parameters with high degree of captured variances. In this study, the seed yield of NBeG-47 (V1) depended on maximum temperature at vegetative stage (MAT1), minimum temperature at reproductive stage (MIT2) and relative humidity during evening in the reproductive phase (RH22) and maturity phase (RH23). The seed yield of NBeG-49 (V2) variety depended on maximum temperature at vegetative stage (MAT1), relative humidity during evening in the reproductive phase (RH22) and maturity phase (RH23) and rainfall during maturity phase (RF3). For NBeG-119 (V3), seed yield was depended on maximum temperature at reproductive phase (MAT2), relative humidity during evening in the maturity phase (RH23), rainfall during reproductive (RF2) and maturity phase (RF3). The results clearly indicated that minimum temperature, maximum temperature, relative humidity and rainfall determined the seed yield of chickpea in coastal agro-ecosystem of Andhra Pradesh.\r\n','-','A. Suryakala, V. Radha Krishna Murthy and M. Sree Rekha (2022). Investigation of Correlation and Regression Analysis and Crop Weather Relationships in Three different varieties of Chickpea under Coastal Agro-Ecosystem of Andhra Pradesh. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 14(4): 101-107.'),(5565,'146','To Study the effect of different Environments on some Quantitative Traits in Bread Wheat (Triticum aestivum L. em. Thell.)','Anita Burdak, Ved Prakash, D. K. Gothwal, Deepak Gupta, Ram Kunwar, Rekha Choudhary and Garima Vaishnav','16 To Study the effect of different Environments on some Quantitative Traits in Bread Wheat Anita Burdak.pdf','',1,'The present study was undertaken to evaluation of variance and mean performance of yield and its associated traits in ten bread wheat genotypes grown in randomized block design with three replication under normal, late and very late sown conditions during rabi 2021-22 at Rajasthan Agriculture Research Institute, Durgapura. The pooled as well as individual analysis of variance revealed that the treatments were highly significant for all the characters under study indicating sufficient genetic diversity present among the parents selected. Environmental factors have negative impact on growth, development and ultimately yield potential of wheat. The mean performance of different studied characters decreased under both (late and very late sown) environmental conditions as compared to normal sown condition indicating delayed sowing influenced by various temperature fluctuations.','Analysis of variance, mean performance, temperature fluctuations, bread wheat ','The pooled as well as individual analysis of variance revealed that the treatments were highly significant for all the traits under present study indicating wide genetic diversity among the parents. The significant difference for G x E interaction for all studied traits specified a non-linear response of genotypes with changing environment. The mean performance of all the studied characters decreased under late and very late sown conditions. Hence, delayed sowing is the main cause of reducing grain yield due to reduced growth period and facing high temperature conditions during the critical phases of growth and reproduction in wheat crop. Therefore, breeding for higher grain yield should focus on developing cultivars with strong genetic potential, which can survive under high temperature fluctuations.','-','Anita Burdak, Ved Prakash, D.K. Gothwal, Deepak Gupta, Ram Kunwar, Rekha Choudhary and Garima Vaishnav (2022). To Study the Effect of different Environments on some Quantitative Traits in Bread Wheat (Triticum aestivum L. em. Thell.). Biological Forum – An International Journal, 14(4): 108-111.'),(5566,'146','Screening of Genotypes against Cercospora Leaf Spot, Grey Mildew and Boll Rot Diseases in Cotton','A. Vijaya Bhaskar','17 Screening of Genotypes against Cercospora Leaf Spot, Grey Mildew and Boll Rot Diseases in Cotton A. Vijaya Bhaskar.pdf','',1,'A study was done to identify the sources of resistance to Cercospora leaf spot, Grey mildew and Boll rot diseases in cotton.Screening was done at Regional Agricultural Research Station, Warangal, Telangana State, India under Cotton section. The experimental material consisted of 54 cotton germplasms /hybrids/varieties and 13 Bt cotton hybrids with a check and they were tested against to Cercospora leaf spot, Grey mildew and Boll rot diseases during Kharif-2017 at Regional Agricultural Research Station, Warangal. Out of 54 cotton germplasms, two entries viz., WGCV-26 and CPD-731-1 were found resistant to Cercospora leaf spot, nineteen entries namely Deltapine-66, Anjali, ADB-39, GJHV-97/29, CPT-571, CPD-7575, CPD-812,TCH-1716,NA-777,WGCV-29,WGCV-43,WGCV-26,GSHV-160,RS-2569,RS-2557, PRS-02,L-620,NDLH-1967 and WGCV-115 were found resistant to Grey mildew disease. Out of screened 13 Bt cotton hybrids against Boll rot disease, one entry AKIRA was found resistant to Boll rot disease. ','Germplasms, Cotton, resistant sources, Screening, Cercospora leaf spot disease, Grey mildew disease and Boll rot disease','Out of fifty four cotton germplasms, two entries viz., WGCV-26 and CPD-731-1 were found resistant to Cercospora leaf spot and nineteen entries viz., Deltapine-66, Anjali, ADB-39, GJHV-97/29, CPT-571, CPD-7575, CPD-812, TCH-1716,NA-777, WGCV-29, WGCV-43, WGCV-26, GSHV-160, RS-2569, RS-2557, PRS-02, L-620, NDLH-1967, WGCV-115 were found resistant to Grey mildew disease. Among 13 Bt cotton hybrids Moneymaker and Superb entries were moderately resistant to grey mildew and Boll rot diseases.WGCV-26, CPD-7575, CPD-812 and CPD-731-1 entries can be used in crossing programmes for development of high yielding and disease resistant/tolerant to cercospora leaf spot and Grey mildew diseases in Cotton.','-','A. Vijaya Bhaskar (2022). Screening of Genotypes against Cercospora Leaf Spot, Grey Mildew and Boll Rot Diseases in Cotton. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 14(4): 112-117.'),(5567,'146','Growth and Yield of Finger Millet as Influenced by Planting Geometry, Age of Seedlings and Manure Levels','Shiva Kumar H.D., Kalyana Murthy K.N., Anand M.R., Boraiah B., Nanjareddy Y.A. and Prakasha H.C.','18 Growth and Yield of Finger Millet as Influenced by Planting Geometry, Age of Seedlings and Manure Levels SHIVA KUMAR HD.pdf','',1,'A field experiment was undertaken during Rabi 2017 and 2018 to assess the effect of planting geometry, method of establishment and nutrient sources on growth and yield of finger milletat ZARS, UAS, GKVK, Bengaluru located in eastern dry zone of Karnataka. Among the planting geometry significantly higher growth parameters viz., plant height (82.59 cm) and leaf area index (4.06) were recorded in 30 cm × 10 cm, the total dry matter production (53.30 g hill-1), number of productive tillers hill-1 (10.38) and grain yield hill-1 (37.25 g) were recorded in 30 cm × 30 cm. Whereas, higher grain yield (4336 kg ha-1) was recorded in 25 cm × 25 cm and higher straw yield (8687 kg ha-1) was recorded with 30 cm × 10 cm and it was on par with 25 cm × 25 cm (7915 kg ha-1). Significantly higher growth parameters viz., plant height (79.73 cm), leaf area index (2.73), total dry matter production (52.06 g hill-1), number of productive tillers hill-1 (8.21), grain yield hill-1 (26.76 g) and grain yield (4316 kg ha-1) were recorded with 15 days old seedlings. Significantly higher growth parameters viz., plant height (78.75cm), leaf area index (2.68), total dry matter production (51.39 g hill-1), number of productive tiller hill-1 (8.10), ear length (7.15 cm), grain yield hill-1 (26.35 g) and grain (4250 kg ha-1) and straw yield (7865kg ha-1) were recorded with application of 100% RDN through FYM + 25% through inorganic fertilizers.','Finger Millet, SRI, Plant Geometry, Age of Seedlings, Manure Levels','From this study, it can be concluded that planting of 15 days old seedlings with a spacing of 25 cm × 25 cm with the application of 100% RDN through FYM + 25% through inorganic fertilizers recorded significantly higher growth and yield components, grain and straw yield.','-','Shiva Kumar H.D., Kalyana Murthy K.N., Anand M.R., Boraiah B., Nanjareddy Y.A. and Prakasha H.C. (2022). Growth and Yield of Finger Millet as Influenced by Planting Geometry, Age of Seedlings and Manure Levels. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 14(4): 118-122.'),(5568,'146','Effect of Weather Parameters on the Severity of Bacterial Leaf Blight of Rice (cv. Basmati-370)','Tabasia Amin, Vishal Gupta, Aarushi Singh and Sheikh Saima Khushboo','19 Effect of Weather Parameters on the Severity of Bacterial Leaf Blight of Rice cv. Basmati-370 Tabasia Amin.pdf','',1,'Weather conditions significantly influence the plant disease incidence and development. Rainfall, temperature, relative humidity, flood and cyclonic conditions are the important factors for disease development. High humidity (>80%), rain and cloudy conditions accelerate the disease development in bacterial leaf blight of rice. A moderate and evenly distributed rainfall during the crop season can bring about an epidemic. Temperature is an important environmental factor influencing plant development in natural and diseased conditions in BLB. Disease appeared on 31st SWM during both the years with disease severity of 1.03 and 1.47 percent. Terminal severity of BLB was recorded as 44.13 and 45.45 per cent, when the crop was at harvest stage during 46th SMW during both the years of 2019 and 2020. During the epidemiological studies of BLB, maximum infection rate (r) of 0.175 (Basmati-370) was observed during 32nd standard week (2019) and, maximum infection rate (r) of 0.164 was observed during 33rd standard week (2020). AUDPC of BLB was 293.19 and 305.27 in 2019 and 2020, respectively. During 2019, temperature (Max. and Min.), relative humidity (evening), rainfall and bright sunshine hours showed significant but negative correlation with severity of BLB, whereas, relative humidity (morning), showed positive correlation with disease. Whereas, during 2020, temperature (Max. and Min.), relative humidity (morning), relative humidity (evening) and rainfall showed significant but negative correlation with severity of BLB and sunshine hours showed positive correlation with disease severity. On the basis of pooled data of both the years, a significantly negative correlation with maximum temperature, minimum temperature, evening relative humidity and rainfall but non-significantly negative correlation with morning relative humidity were observed. The generated model had coefficient of determination (R2) of 0.95, which showed that 95 per cent of the variation in the severity of BLB was influenced by maximum and minimum temperature, maximum and minimum relative humidity and rainfall during 2019 and the same model had coefficient of determination (R2) of 0.94 which showed 94% of the variation in the observed severity of bacterial leaf blight of rice was influenced by maximum and minimum temperature, morning and evening relative humidity, sunshine hours and rainfall during 2020. On the basis of pooled data, model had coefficient of determination (R2) of (0.89) which showed that 89 per cent of the variation in the observed disease severity of BLB was influenced by maximum and minimum temperatures, morning and evening relative humidity, sunshine hours and rain fall. ','Weather, severity, disease, BLB, rice, blight, parameters','During 2019, the disease severity of 1.03 per cent was recorded in 31st standard meteorological week (SMW) when the crop was at tillering stage and when maximum and minimum temperatures of 32.66 and 26.20ºC, morning and evening relative humidity of 86.00 and 67.71 percent, sunshine of 5.71 hrs and total rainfall of 50.20 mm, was recorded. Terminal severity of BLB was 44.13 per cent when the crop was at harvest stage during 46th SMW, with maximum and minimum temperatures of 24.00 to 13.41oC, morning and evening relative humidity of 89.86 to 61.71 per cent, sunshine hours of 3.54 and total rainfall of 2.80mm. During 2020, the disease severity of 1.47 per cent was recorded in 31st SMW, with maximum and minimum temperatures of 34.6 and 25.7oC, morning and evening relative humidity of 87.0 and 64.6 percent, sunshine hours was 6.4 and total rainfall of 54.6mm. Terminal disease severity was 45.45 per cent when the crop was at harvest stage during 46th SMW, with maximum and minimum temperatures of 3.2 to 9.8oC, morning and evening relative humidity of 92.7 to 58.0 per cent, sunshine hours of 4.3 and total rainfall of 27.8 mm. On the basis of pooled data of the two years, the disease severity of 1.25 per cent was recorded in 31st SMW with maximum and minimum temperatures of 34.60 and 25.97°C, morning and evening relative humidity of 86.50 and 66.14 percent, sunshine hours was 6.05 and total rainfall of 52.40 mm. Terminal disease severity was 44.79 per cent when the crop was at harvest stage during 46th SMW with maximum and minimum temperatures of 23.21 and 11.63°C, morning and evening relative humidity of 91.29 and 59.86 per cent, sunshine hours of 3.90 and total rainfall of 15.30 mm. \r\nIn 2019, maximum infection rate (r) of 0.18 was observed during 32nd SMW in basmati-370, while during 2020, maximum infection rate (r) of 0.16 was observed during 33rd SMW. On the basis of pooled data, maximum infection rate (r) of 0.12 was observed during 32nd SMW. During 2019 AUDPC was maximum at 46th SMW (293.19) when the disease severity was 44.13 per cent. Similarly during 2020, it was maximum at 46th SMW (305.27) when disease severity was 45.74 per cent. On the basis of pooled data, it was maximum at 46th SMW (299.23) when disease severity was 44.79 per cent. Correlation studies revealed that the relationship between disease severity and weather factors during 2019 had significantly negative correlation with maximum temperature, minimum temperature and evening relative humidity, and non-significant negative correlation with rainfall and sunshine hours, though there was positive but non-significant correlation with morning relative humidity. During 2020, significantly negative correlation with maximum temperature, minimum temperature, evening relative humidity and rainfall, whereas non-significant negative correlation with morning relative humidity was observed, whereas, positive but non-significant correlation was observed with sunshine hours. On the basis of pooled data, significantly negative correlation with maximum temperature, minimum temperature, evening relative humidity and rainfall, and non-significant negative correlation with morning relative humidity was observed, however, there was positive but non-significant correlation with sunshine hours.\r\nMultiple linear regression studies revealed that among the weather parameters, maximum temperature and number of rainy days had a significant contribution in the increase in per cent disease severity. For the development of disease, there were 94 and 89 per cent influences of all the six weather factors on cv. Basmati-370 and the remaining 6 and 11 per cent variations were unexplained, during both the years i.e. 2019 and 2020, respectively.\r\n','-','Tabasia Amin, Vishal Gupta, Aarushi Singh and Sheikh Saima Khushboo (2022). Effect of Weather Parameters on the Severity of Bacterial Leaf Blight of Rice (cv. Basmati-370). Biological Forum – An International Journal, 14(4): 123-133.'),(5569,'146','Unlocking the Characters Association and Path analysis to Frame out the Idiotype for a Breeding Program in Black Gram (Vigna mungo L. Hepper)','M. Sala, T. Shunmuga Vadivel, C. Sarankumar, S. Ashok and R. Yuvarani','20 Unlocking the Characters Association and Path analysis to Frame out the Idiotype for a Breeding Program in Black Gram M. Sala.pdf','',1,'Black gram is one of the important crops in the family Leguminosae. It has been used widely for its protein contents and other nutrients. To design and improve the breeding program the characteristics of the crop are foremost important. For which the analysis of correlation and path coefficient pays way to select the desirable characters for the improvement of black gram. In this study, twelve genotypes were evaluated for ten biometric traits viz., days to fifty percent flowering, plant height, number of branches per plant, number of clusters per plant, number of pods per plant, number of seeds per pod, pod length, 100-seed weight, seed yield per plant, days to maturity which revealed that number of clusters per plant and number of pods per plant had a significantly positive correlation with yield. From the path analysis, number of branches, days to fifty percent flowering, number of seeds per pod, and plant height were recorded with a very high direct effect on single plant yield. Thus, the traits viz., hundred seed weight, number of branches per plant, and number of pods per plant could be selected for improving seed yield in black gram.','Black gram, Correlation, Path analysis, Yield components','In conclusion, the correlation analysis indicated Single plant yield was positive and significantly associated with hundred seed weight, number of branches per plant, and number of pods per plant. Results obtained from path analysis revealed that number of branches, days to fifty percent flowering, number of seeds per pod, and plant height were registered with very high direct effect on single plant yield. Hence characters viz., hundred seed weight, number of branches per plant, and number of pods per plant could be utilized as selection criteria for improving seed yield in black gram.','-','M. Sala, T. Shunmuga Vadivel, C. Sarankumar, S. Ashok and R.Yuvarani (2022). Unlocking the Characters Association and Path analysis to Frame Out the Idiotype for a Breeding Program in Black Gram (Vigna mungo L. Hepper). Biological Forum – An International Journal, 14(4): 134-137.'),(5570,'146','A Review of Research on Buying Behavior of Urban and Semi-urban consumers towards Cold Pressed and Refined Edible Oils','Edunuri Santhoshi, Swetha Kodali, D. Ratna Kumari and C. Sudhakar','21 A Review of Research on Buying Behavior of Urban and Semi-urban consumers towards Cold Pressed and Refined Edible Oils Edunuri Santhoshi.pdf','',1,'Cold-pressed edible oils were made by grinding nuts, seeds and fruits into oil, which were suitable for direct consumption. Different types of cold pressed edible oils are available in the market, i.e. safflower, ground nut, mustard, coconut, olive oil, sesame and almond was purchased by the modern consumers. Hence, there view research was crucial to explore the buying behavior of the consumers who were consuming cold pressed and refined edible oils in urban and semi-urban areas. As now a days consumers were more particular about the brand, quality and prices before purchasing the oils, the review stated that most of the consumers were preferring branded cold pressed and refined edible oils due to its health benefits, at the same time the consumers were found purchasing oils mostly from retail stores, supermarkets and malls. Further, the review of research stated that quality, brand and packaging were found to be the most influencing factors among consumers to prefer the cold pressed and refined edible oils.','Cold pressed oils, refined edible oils, Consumer, Buying behavior','The research review of this study stated that, most of the consumers preferred cold pressed edible oils of groundnut, sunflower, sesame and mustard oils, further soyabean in urban areas where assemi-urban consumers were found preferring palm oil followed by groundnut oil. The consumers found influenced by brand, price, quality and availability factors. Majority of the consumers were found buying the products from retail stores, supermarkets and malls. Information source for consumers regarding edible oils were advertisements, newspapers, relatives and friends. The findings of this review stated that, urban consumers preferred cold pressed oils and refined edible oils as they were brand conscious, due to awareness regarding the health benefits and at the same time they were able to afford. Whereas, the semi-urban consumers were purchasing only refined edible oils, which were available in both packed and unpacked (loose oils). It was observed that semi-urban consumers were less aware of cold pressed edible oils and its benefits. Therefore, cold pressed edible oils were preferred more by urban community compared to rural consumers. The consumer buying behavior was primarily influenced by a variety of factors like taste, price and health. ','-','Edunuri Santhoshi, Swetha Kodali, D. Ratna Kumari and C. Sudhakar (2022). A Review of Research on Buying Behavior of Urban and Semi-urban consumers towards Cold Pressed and Refined Edible Oils. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 14(4): 138-142.'),(5571,'146','Studies on the Effect of different Media on the Mycelial Growth of Colletotrichum lindemuthianum','Sonali Bhagat, S.K. Singh, Sneha Choudhary, Ranbir Singh, V.B. Singh, A.K. Singh and Amrish Vaid','22 Studies on the Effect of different Media on the Mycelial Growth of Colletotrichum lindemuthianum Sonali Bhagat.pdf','',1,'French bean anthracnose is one of the major disease caused by Colletotrichum lindemuthianum and the pathogen is responsible for causing significant yield losses. C. lindemuthianum is a slow growing pathogen and is usually grown on Potato Dextrose Agar medium, thus in vitro studies were conducted to study the mycelial growth and colony characters of the fungus on six different media viz., Potato Dextrose Agar, Czapek’s Dox Agar, Oat Meal Agar, Richard’s Synthetic Agar, Fungal Agar and Potato Carrot Agar. The result revealed that the mycelial growth in all the media ranged between 62.33 mm to 90.00 mm. Among all the tested media, Potato Dextrose Agar recorded the maximum mycelial growth of 90.00 mm. However, Potato Carrot Agar recorded the minimum mycelial growth of 62.33 mm. The colony characters viz., growth pattern, colony margin and colony colour was also recorded. The fungus produced cottony to fluffy growth, regular to irregular margin and the colony colour varied from white to whitish gray. Potato Dextrose Agar proved to be the best suitable media for the growth of C. lindemuthianum.','French bean, anthracnose, Colletotrichum lindemuthianum, media','The study revealed that among all the tested media, Potato Dextrose Agar showed the best suitability for the growth of C. lindemuthianum and recorded the maximum mycelial growth after 15 days of incubation.','-','Sonali Bhagat, S.K. Singh, Sneha Choudhary, Ranbir Singh, V.B. Singh, A.K. Singh and Amrish Vaid (2022). Studies on the Effect of different Media on the Mycelial Growth of Colletotrichum lindemuthianum. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 14(4): 143-145.'),(5572,'146','Development of Goat Milk Shrikhand Fortified with Mimosa pudica Powder','R.B. Yedatkar, S.D. Kalyankar, B.D. Landge, Jyoti S. Gaikwad and S.N. Landge','23 Development of Goat Milk Shrikhand Fortified with Mimosa pudica Powder SD Kalyankar.pdf','',1,'Goat milk is used to replace cow milk for those suffering from allergy. It has a high nutritional content. It is a rich source of calcium, phosphorous, chlorine, and vitamins. It is highly digestible and has a mild laxative effect. It is a good source of vitamin B1. Shrikhand is a semi solid, sweetish-sour, whole milk product, prepared from lactic fermented curd. Goat milk has a high nutritional content. Mimosa pudica is a creeping leguminous herb, primarily used for its medicinal benefits. Therefore, for fortification of goat milk shrikhand with Mimosa pudica powder was studied so as to provide functional shrikhand with nutritional and medicinal values. In present study the suitability of Mimosa pudica powder in goat milk shrikhand studied based on sensory and chemical qualities. Sensory score observed in different treatment combination shows higher score (8.06) for addition of Mimosa pudica powder @ 1% indicating overall acceptability of the product (T3). ','Shrikhand, Goat milk, Mimosa pudica, Fortification of milk products','In preparation process of Mimosa pudica powder blended with goat milk shrikhand for the purpose to increasing the nutritional value of the product. In present investigation the suitability of Mimosa pudica powder in goat milk shrikhand studied based on sensory and chemical qualities. There was a significant difference in overall acceptability. Score observed in different treatment combination shows higher overall acceptability score (8.06) indicating superior acceptability among experimental samples. The mean liking sequence was in following the trend T0, T3, T2, T1, the present work showed that goat milk shrikhand prepared with 1gm Mimosa pudica powder in 99gm of shrikhand had more acceptable quality characteristics among all the experimental samples. It is acceptable that the Mimosa pudica can be effectively used for the production of goat milk Shrikhand. In future suitability of this herb in various traditional dairy products can be studied. Such types of dairy products will be considered as therapeutic food for health conscious peoples. ','-','R.B. Yedatkar, S.D. Kalyankar, B.D. Landge, Jyoti S Gaikwad and S. N. Landge (2022). Development of Goat Milk Shrikhand Fortified with Mimosa pudica Powder. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 14(4): 146-149.'),(5573,'146','Assessment of Genetic Variability Parameters for Yield and Yield Components in Chickpea (Cicer arietinum L.)','Rekha Choudhary, S.K. Jain, Mahaveer Prasad Ola, Anita Burdak and Deepak Gupta','24 Assessment of Genetic Variability Parameters for Yield and Yield Components in Chickpea Rekha Choudhary.pdf','',1,'An investigation consisted of eight chickpea genotypes viz., RSG-888, CSJD-884, RSG-963, RSG-973, RSG-974, CSJ-515, Avrodhi and HC-5 and crossed in all possible combinations under two environments i.e. timely (E1) and late sown (E2) conditions at Rajasthan Agricultural Research Institute (RARI), SKNAU, Durgapura (Jaipur) Rajasthan during Rabi 2021-22. The objective of present study was to estimate magnitude of different parameters of genetic variability for yield and its components. The observations were recorded for fifteen different yield and its contributing characters and the obtained results indicated that in general the phenotypic coefficient of variance was found to be higher as compared to genotypic coefficient of variance for all studied traits. High heritability with high genetic advance (% mean) was reported for biological yield per plant and seed yield per plant in both the environments while for pods per plant in E1 condition. Thus, the high heritability with high genetic advance confirmed the presence of additive gene effect for all the studied characters and hence can be enhanced through selection.','Chickpea, genotypes, diallel, heritability, genetic advance','In order to increase chickpea output, selection must be made in the characteristics, according to analyses of genetic parameters including genotypic coefficient of variation, phenotypic coefficient of variation, heritability, and genetic advance as a per cent of mean. High heritability with high genetic advance was reported for biological yield per plant and seed yield per plant in both the environments while for pods per plant in E1 condition indicating that these characters governed by additive gene action. Hence, selection for genetic improvement in these traits would be effective for increasing seed yield in chickpea crop.','-','Rekha Choudhary, S.K. Jain, Mahaveer Prasad Ola, Anita Burdak and Deepak Gupta (2022). Assessment of Genetic Variability Parameters for Yield and Yield Components in Chickpea (Cicer arietinum L.). Biological Forum – An International Journal, 14(4): 150-153.'),(5574,'146','Adoption Constraints of Improved Crop Technologies by Farmers of Cluster Frontline Demonstration-Pulses','M. Vamshi, C. Padma Veni, V. Ravinder Naik and G.E.CH. Vidya Sagar','25 Adoption Constraints of Improved Crop Technologies by Farmers of Cluster Frontline Demonstration-Pulses M. Vamshi.pdf','',1,'To enhance the production and productivity of Pulses in the country, Ministry of Agriculture and Farmer’s welfare, Government of India had initiated Cluster Frontline Demonstration– Pulses Programme under National Food Security Mission implemented through KVKs. Latest recommended package of practices are demonstrated on farmers field in a cluster approach under supervision of KVK scientists. The present study was conducted during 2021-22 in Central Telangana Zone at KVK Wyra and KVK Malyal. These KVKs were selected Purposively as they were performing CFLD Programme since 2015-16 under Pulses. From each KVK 50 respondents as beneficiaries were selected purposively. For the overall promotion of Pulse Production even the constraints faced by non-beneficiaries were also studied selecting 30 randomly. The study was conducted to know the farmer constraints (Both beneficiary and non-beneficiary) in adopting the recommended improved technologies. Garret ranking technique was used to rank the constraints in order of their influence on farmers adoption of latest technologies. Among all the constraints faced by the beneficiaries Occurrence of low yield due to adverse climatic conditions ranked (1st); Quantity and quality loss due to Storage Pests (2nd); Lack of Institutional support for Produce buy back (3rd); were found to be major and in non-beneficiaries Non-availability of HYV seed ranked (1st) followed by High cost of improved seed (2nd ); Lack of skill in seed treatment (3rd) were found to be Major constraints.','Cluster Frontline Demonstration, Constraints, Adoption, Telangana','The various constraints faced by beneficiary farmers of CFLD programme may be technical, financial, personal and government related were definitely limiting the farming activities to proceed in a desired direction. Despite of all the efforts the KVKs have put in to help the farmers in a more advantageous way to diversify the farmers towards pulse production with good production techniques, the unforeseen natural calamities ruined the crops, as it ranked top among other constraints indicated in the study followed by lack of government support for the construction of storage godowns in villages and buy back arrangements to procure seed produced by farmers. Also lack of marketing infrastructure got enlisted as one of major constraints besides many other constraints as study indicated. The investigator suggests for the quality seed production measures by the famers as it assumes primary focus which enables the implementing institution to procure and distribute the seed to farmer community in ensuing cropping season as a buy back arrangement, which acts as a way of bringing seed into seed chain for horizontal expansion.','-','M. Vamshi, C. Padma Veni, V. Ravinder Naik and G.E.CH. Vidya Sagar (2022). Adoption Constraints of Improved Crop Technologies by Farmers of Cluster Frontline Demonstration-Pulses. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 14(4): 154-157.'),(5575,'146','Effect of Seed Priming on Seed quality Attributes of Fresh and Old seed lots of Onion (Allium cepa L.)','Pratik Santosh Kharat, Ashok Thakur, Sushumna Thakur, Manish Kumar, Rohit Verma, Reva Jaryal and Amandeep','26 Effect of Seed Priming on Seed quality Attributes of Fresh and Old seed Lots of Onion _Allium cepa L._ Pratik Santosh Kharat.pdf','',1,'The most serious issues in onion crop production are the lower germination percentage of onion seeds and the loss of seed vigour i.e., seed quality attributes, during storage for more than a year. Onion seed lots, viz., fresh (2021) and old (2020), were treated with priming agents such as PEG 6000, KNO3, ZnSO4, GA3 and distilled water for two durations (12 and 24 hours) and non-priming was considered as control. The experiment was designed in CRD having two factors (S1 and S2) and replicated four times. From the results, it was revealed that among seed lots, fresh seed lot was found to be significantly superior to old seed lot. Among priming treatments, both seed lots (fresh and old) primed with GA3 @ 100 ppm for 24 hours, i.e., T8 recorded a maximum speed of germination (38.67, 31.82), germination (93.00, 82.00 %), seedling length (15.55, 13.60 cm), seedling dry weight (24.55, 19.42 mg), seed vigour index-I (1446.15, 1115.17) and seed vigour index-II (2283.40, 1592.75). From the present investigations, it was concluded that all seed priming methods enhanced the seed quality attributes of fresh as well old seed lots, and GA3 priming was found to be the best treatment among other treatment combinations.','Onion, Priming, Seed age, GA3, Seed quality','From the present studies, it is concluded that priming treatments, seed age and their interaction had a significant variation on all the seed quality attributes under study. All priming treatments improved seed quality of freshly harvested as well as one-year-old seed lot and seed priming with GA3 @ 100 ppm for 24 hours (T8) is found to be superior over all other priming treatments which is statistically at par with T7 i.e., GA3 @ 100 ppm for 12 hours. Treatment T11 i.e., control (non-primed) in both the seed lots recorded minimum values.','-','Pratik Santosh Kharat, Ashok Thakur, Sushumna Thakur, Manish Kumar, Rohit Verma, Reva Jaryal and Amandeep (2022). Effect of Seed Priming on Seed quality Attributes of Fresh and Old seed Lots of Onion (Allium cepa L.). Biological Forum – An International Journal, 14(4): 158-163.'),(5576,'146','Yield Attributes, Yield and Economics of Sesame and Potato under Sesame – Potato Sequence as Influenced by Nutrient Management Practices','Rajendra Patel, S.P. Singh, Ekta Joshi, Vikash Singh, S.K. Sharma, M.J. Sadawarti, V.K. Dua and S. Rawal','27 Yield Attributes, Yield and Economics of Sesame and Potato under Sesame Rajendra Patel.pdf','',1,'The present investigation on response of organic nutrient management on the yield attributes, yield and economics of sesame and potato crop in sesame - potato sequence in Gwalior regions was conducted at ICAR, Central Potato Research Institute – RS, Gwalior (M.P.) during two consecutive years (2020-21 and 2021-22). The experiment was laid out in Randomized Block Design (RBD) with four replications having 7 treatments. The treatments comprised of decomposed crop residue @ 25 t ha-1 with biofertilizer (Azotobacter and PSB), FYM @ 25 t ha-1, vermicompost @ 7.5 t ha-1, neem cake @ 5 t ha-1 in different treatments in addition to control, 100% RDF and INM (100% RDF + FYM @ 25 t ha-1). The results revealed that among all the organic manures, RDF and integrated treatment T7 (100% RDF + FYM 25 t ha-1) showed better results in phenological parameters like days to flower initiation (50.3 and 51.6), days to 50% flowering (55.9 only 2021-22), days to capsule initiation (64.4 and 65.5) and days to 50% capsule formation which were numerically higher with 100% RDF NPK during 2020-21 and T3 + vermicompost @ 7.5 t ha-1 (71.4) during 2021-22 as compared to other treatments. Yield and yield attributing characters were noted significantly higher under 100% RDF + FYM @ 25 t ha-1 viz., number of capsules plant-1 (92.4 and 83.5, respectively), seeds capsule-1 (72.4 in 2020-21) but capsule length was showed non significant effect under different treatments. Seed (944 and 870 kg ha-1) and stover yields (3013 and 2980 kg ha-1) in sesame were recorded highest under 100 % RDF + FYM @ 25 t ha-1 crop during 2020-21 and 2021-22, respectively. Application of 100% RDF + FYM @25 t ha-1 gave significantly higher yield attributing characters viz. number of tubers plant-1 (12.13 and 10.45), fresh weight of tuber plant-1 (522.9 and 508.2 g) and dry weight of tuber plant-1 (103.2 and 97.4 g) which were significantly superior over other treatments. Tuber yield (44.2 and 47.2 t ha-1) of potato during 2020-21 and 2021-22 were also highest under 100% RDF + FYM @ 25 t ha-1. Highest harvest index was recorded with T3 + neem cake @ 5 t ha-1 (84.5%) which was significantly higher than 100% RDF NPK and 100% RDF + FYM @ 25 t ha-1 during 2020-21. However, it was highest with T3 + FYM @ 25 t ha-1 during 2021-22 which was significantly higher than 100% RDF + FYM @ 25 t ha-1. Application of crop residue @ 25 t ha-1 + Biofertilizer (Azotobacter + PSB, @ 1 l ha-1, each respectively) produced the highest net returns (` 53144 and 44360 ha-1) in sesame crop during first and second years, respectively. Application of T3 + FYM @ 25 t ha-1 obtained the highest net returns (` 438334 and 402240 ha-1) in potato crop during first and second years, respectively. Thus, organic production of sesame and potato under sesame - potato sequence may be taken as economically viable options.','Crop residue, FYM, vermicompost, neem cake, growth, RDF, sesame, potato and economics','It may be concluded that application of 100% RDF + FYM @ 25 t ha-1 was noted superior phenological, yield attributes and yield resulting in higher remuneration for sesame and potato crops in sesame - potato sequence.','-','Rajendra Patel, S.P. Singh, Ekta Joshi, S.K. Sharma, Vikash Singh, M.J. Sadawarti, V.K. Dua and S. Rawal (2022). Yield Attributes, Yield and Economics of Sesame and Potato under Sesame – Potato Sequence as Influenced by Nutrient Management Practices. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 14(4): 164-168.'),(5577,'146','Effect of Supplementation of Exogenous Fibrolytic Enzymes on Intake, Nutrient Utilization Pattern and Economics of Feeding in Weaned crossbred Calves','Anil, T.K. Dutta, A. Chatterjee, Amit Kumar Singh, Sushil K. Yadav and A. Mohammad','28 Effect of Supplementation of Exogenous Fibrolytic Enzymes on Intake, Nutrient Utilization Pattern and Economics of Feeding in Weaned crossbred Calves Amit Kumar Singh.pdf','',1,'The present study was conducted to evaluate the effect of supplementation of exogenous fibrolytic enzymes (EFE) on nutrient utilization pattern and economics of feeding in weaned crossbred calves. Fifteen weaned female crossbred Jersey calves (weight 79.73±3.46 kg; age 234.5±11.33 days) were divided into three equal groups of 5 animals each; namely, Control (T0), Treatment-1 (T1) and Treatment-2 (T2). A digestion trial was conducted with 6 days collection period during the last phase of 90 days growth trial. Total Mixed Ration (TMR) was fed ad libitum to each animal under three treatment groups. Animals under T0 group were fed ad lib. TMR without EFE supplementation. Animals under T1 and T2 groups were supplemented with two doses of EFE (T1 with cellulase and Xylanase @ 8000 and 16000 IU/kg DM of TMR and T2 with EFE cellulase and Xylanase @ 12000 and 24000 IU/kg DM of TMR). The study revealed that DM and OM intake per unit body weight (kg/100 kg BW and g/kg W0.75) were significantly (P<0.05) greater in T1 and T2 groups than the T0 group. The digestibility coefficients (%) of DM were significantly (P<0.001) higher in T1 (62.10) and T2 (62.00) in comparison to T0 group (57.39). Similarly, digestibility coefficients (%) of NDF were 50.79, 55.84 and 56.26 in control, T1 and T2 groups, being significantly (P<0.001) higher in treated animals compared to control (T0). The digestibility co-efficients of total carbohydrate, hemicellulose and cellulose also followed the similar trend. Supplementation of EFE to calves significantly (P<0.01) increased DCP intake/100 kg BW in T1 and T2 compared to control group. Similarly, significantly higher (P<0.001) TDNI/100 kg BW was observed in T1 and T2 groups compared to the control group. DCP and TDN percentage of the diets increased significantly (P<0.001) in enzyme supplemented groups. The feeding cost/kg BW gain in T1 and T2 reduced by 4.73% and 3.56%, respectively, compared to the control group. Therefore, it may be concluded that addition of EFE (cellulase and Xylanase @ 8000 and 16000 IU/kg DM of TMR) resulted in greater nutrients availability for economizing the feeding cost/kg weight gain in cross-bred calves fed with Total Mixed Ration (TMR); however, higher doses (12000 and 24000 IU/kg TMR DM) of the EFE had no added effect.','Weaned calves, Digestibility, Exogenous Fibrolytic Enzyme, Feeding Cost, Intake, Supplementation','From this study, it may be concluded that supplementation of EFE (cellulase and xylanase @ 8000 and 16000 IU/kg TMR DM; and 12000 and 24000 IU/kg TMR DM) significantly increased intake of DM, OM and CP per unit body weight and apparent digestibility of DM, OM and fibre fractions (NDF, ADF, hemicellulose and cellulose) of the TMR fed to crossbred calves. Apart from this EFE supplementation also increased availability of nutrients (DCP and TDN) and nutritive value of feed (DCP% and TDN%); hence, more nutrients were available for higher growth performance in calves resulting in reduction of feed cost per kg weight gain. However, higher level of EFE (12000 and 24000 IU/kg TMR DM) had no added advantage. Therefore, it may be concluded that supplementation of EFE (cellulase and xylanase @ 8000 and 16000 IU/kg TMR DM) may boost voluntary intake, digestibility of nutrients and reduced the cost of feed per kg weight gain of crossbred calves.','-','Anil, T.K. Dutta, A. Chatterjee, Amit Kumar Singh, Sushil K. Yadav and A. Mohammad (2022). Effect of Supplementation of Exogenous Fibrolytic Enzymes on Intake, Nutrient Utilization Pattern and Economics of Feeding in Weaned crossbred Calves. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 14(4): 169-176.'),(5578,'146','Screening of Common Bean Genotypes for Resistance against Fusarium Wilt','Tabasia Amin, Sheikh Saima Khushboo and Aarushi Singh','147 Screening of Common Bean Genotypes for Resistance against Fusarium Wilt Tabasia Amin.pdf','',4,'Fusarium wilt is the most serious disease of common bean causing 10 to 15 per cent yield losses each year. It is a soil-borne fungal disease where water conducting (xylem) vessels become blocked. The pathogenicity of the isolated fungus was proving by Koch’s postulates. Further 50 common bean genotypes were screened under artificially inoculated controlled conditions among which 4 genotypes (G-257, UK-2, G-341, G-832) showed resistant reaction, 4 genotypes (G-716, G-195, G-2, G-185) showed moderately resistant reaction, 21 genotypes (WB-634, WB-642, WB-1318, WB-969, WB-160, WB-967, WB-923, WB-966, WB-1587, WB-4709, WB-651, WB-1634, WB-1282, WB-6, WB-482, WB-481, G-1313, WB-164, WB-13398, WB-935, WB-25575) showed moderately susceptible reaction, 18 genotypes (WB-1319, WB-1436, WB-1413, PBG-111, WB-662, WB-4564, WB-371, WB-1644, WB-333, WB-206, WB-206, WB-901, WB-956, WB-952, WB-451, WB-222, WB-1429, WB-1187) showed susceptible reaction and remaining 4 genotypes (Arka-Anop, SFB-1, WB-352, WB-1319, SR-1) exhibited highly susceptible reaction.','Fusarium, screening, genotypes, resistant, susceptible, common bean, wilt, pathogen','Among fifty genotypes, evaluated for their resistance to bean wilt disease under controlled conditions, 18 genotypes were found to be resistant, 20 genotypes, moderately resistant, 8 genotypes moderately susceptible and 4 genotypes susceptible at seedling stage. Whereas, 4 genotypes were observed resistant, 4 genotypes moderately resistant, 21 genotypes moderately susceptible, 18 genotypes susceptible and 4 genotypes highly susceptible at flowering stage. The resistant genotypes at seedling stage may be planted in areas where disease occurs at seedling stage only. Delay in sowing can also help to escape disease from such areas. ','-','Tabasia Amin, Sheikh Saima Khushboo and Aarushi Singh (2021). Screening of Common Bean Genotypes for Resistance against Fusarium Wilt. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 13(3a): 835-839.'),(5579,'105','Screening of Common Bean Genotypes for Resistance against Fusarium Wilt','Tabasia Amin, Sheikh Saima Khushboo and Aarushi Singh','147 Screening of Common Bean Genotypes for Resistance against Fusarium Wilt Tabasia Amin.pdf','',1,'Fusarium wilt is the most serious disease of common bean causing 10 to 15 per cent yield losses each year. It is a soil-borne fungal disease where water conducting (xylem) vessels become blocked. The pathogenicity of the isolated fungus was proving by Koch’s postulates. Further 50 common bean genotypes were screened under artificially inoculated controlled conditions among which 4 genotypes (G-257, UK-2, G-341, G-832) showed resistant reaction, 4 genotypes (G-716, G-195, G-2, G-185) showed moderately resistant reaction, 21 genotypes (WB-634, WB-642, WB-1318, WB-969, WB-160, WB-967, WB-923, WB-966, WB-1587, WB-4709, WB-651, WB-1634, WB-1282, WB-6, WB-482, WB-481, G-1313, WB-164, WB-13398, WB-935, WB-25575) showed moderately susceptible reaction, 18 genotypes (WB-1319, WB-1436, WB-1413, PBG-111, WB-662, WB-4564, WB-371, WB-1644, WB-333, WB-206, WB-206, WB-901, WB-956, WB-952, WB-451, WB-222, WB-1429, WB-1187) showed susceptible reaction and remaining 4 genotypes (Arka-Anop, SFB-1, WB-352, WB-1319, SR-1) exhibited highly susceptible reaction.','Fusarium, screening, genotypes, resistant, susceptible, common bean, wilt, pathogen','Among fifty genotypes, evaluated for their resistance to bean wilt disease under controlled conditions, 18 genotypes were found to be resistant, 20 genotypes, moderately resistant, 8 genotypes moderately susceptible and 4 genotypes susceptible at seedling stage. Whereas, 4 genotypes were observed resistant, 4 genotypes moderately resistant, 21 genotypes moderately susceptible, 18 genotypes susceptible and 4 genotypes highly susceptible at flowering stage. The resistant genotypes at seedling stage may be planted in areas where disease occurs at seedling stage only. Delay in sowing can also help to escape disease from such areas. ','-','Tabasia Amin, Sheikh Saima Khushboo and Aarushi Singh (2021). Screening of Common Bean Genotypes for Resistance against Fusarium Wilt. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 13(3a): 835-839.'),(5580,'146','Efficiency of Pesticide Degrading Probiotic Lactobacillus plantarum Pb3 to Remove Chlorpyriphos on Tomato Fruits','Palanisamy M.* and Vijila K.','29 Efficiency of Pesticide Degrading Probiotic Lactobacillus plantarum Pb3 to Remove Chlorpyriphos on Tomato Fruits Palanisamy M.pdf','',1,'Food contamination is a global major concern in food health and safety. Therefore, the present study was aimed to evaluate the potential ability of probiotics in pesticides detoxification. In this context we investigated the reduction of chlorpyriphos residues on tomato fruits inoculated with Lactic acid bacteria (LAB). Lactobacillus plantarum Pb3 isolated from bhendi that received high amount of pesticide residues was used in this study. The strain, L. plantarum Pb3 possessed good tolerance to pesticides and the highest chlorpyriphos removal capacity. The L. plantarum Pb3 strain can bind chlorpyriphos as indicated by Gas chromatography analysis. The sample were prepared by QuEChERS method for extraction and clean-up process. The strain was employed for further in vivo studies on chlorpyriphos binding characteristics on tomato fruits. Water washing removed approximately 34.6% of pesticides added at a final concentration of 1 mg L-1 of tomato fruits. However, 67.8% of exogenously added chlorpyriphos was removed within 4h by heat-treated cells of L. plantarum Pb3. Heat treatment enhanced chlorpyriphos binding rate. During the biosorption process, tomato fruits did not exhibit any obvious adverse effects. These findings indicated that L. plantarum Pb3 may be useful to reduce chlorpyriphos in contaminated agricultural products.','Lactic acid bacteria, Pesticide, chlorpyriphos, binding, Tomato','In summary, the chlorpyripos binding capacity of the probiotic strain of L. plantarum Pb3 on tomato was determined in this study. The results showed that L. plantarum Pb3 manifested relatively excellent binding capacity to chlorpyriphos. The binding capacity would have been influenced by some factors, for instance, heat treatment enhanced the binding capacity. The binding process was reversible, and the bound chlorpyriphos could be washed. This study indicated that this strain is promising for reducing chlorpyriphos contamination on other food products also and decreasing the bioavailability of chlorpyriphos in food. In this approach cost-effective, ecological, and non-destructive when compared to physical and chemical remediation methods.','-','Palanisamy M. and Vijila K. (2022). Efficiency of Pesticide Degrading Probiotic Lactobacillus plantarum Pb3 to Remove Chlorpyriphos on Tomato Fruits. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 14(4): 177-181.'),(5581,'146','Morphological and Floral Studies in Wild Pomegranate (Daru)','Anmol Negi, Vipul Sharma, Abhishek Kumar, Suraj Goswami, Ajay and Akshay Mohan Chadda','30 Morphological and Floral Studies in Wild Pomegranate _Daru_ Anmol Negi.pdf','',1,'The current study was conducted at ten seed sources throughout different districts of Himachal Pradesh in the Department of Tree Improvement and Genetic Resources, Dr. Y.S. Parmar University of Horticulture & Forestry Nauni, Solan (H.P.), between 2016 and 2018. Being important wild fruit species and extent of variation present in Himachal Pradesh the present study was formulated. The study\'s goal was to document the morphological and floral variability in Wild Pomegranate (Punica granatum L.). We looked at floral qualities such as flower appearance, flower type, pollen vectors, and pollen viability, as well as leaf morphometric traits such as leaf length, leaf breadth, area, and leaf petiole length, and leaf morphological traits such as leaf shape and colour. The degree of genetic variation in Himachal Pradesh was demonstrated by the substantial variance in leaf morphometric, floral, and pollen traits detected within seed sources.',' Floral, morphometric, seed source, wild pomegranate, Daru','The current study found that there is variation in morphological traits for seed source, both within and within seed sources. The wild pomegranate improvement activities are highlighted as a step toward looking at enhanced genotype in the wild pomegranate populations using a combination of individual tree selections.','-','Anmol Negi, Vipul Sharma, Abhishek Kumar, Suraj Goswami, Ajay and Akshay Mohan Chadda (2022). Morphologicaland Floral Studies in Wild Pomegranate (Daru). Biological Forum – An International Journal, 14(4): 182-189.'),(5582,'146','Report of Novius fumidus Mulsant (Coccinellidae: Coleoptera); A potential Predator of Egyptian Cottony Cushion Scale (Icerya aegyptiaca Douglas) Infesting Casuarina equisetifolia in Gujarat, India','Patel N.M., Patel N.B. and Raghunandan B.L.','31 Report of Novius fumidus Mulsant _Coccinellidae Coleoptera_; A potential Predator of Egyptian Cottony Patel N.pdf','',1,'During kharif season of the year 2022, survey was carried to document the activity of bio-agents under biodiversity research trial of All India Co-ordinated Research Project on Biological Control of Crop Pests (AICRP-BC), Anand Agricultural University, Anand (Gujarat). During the survey Novius fumidus Mulsant was observed as a potential coccinellid predator of Egyptian cottony cushion scale (Icerya aegyptiaca Douglas) infesting Casuarina equisetifolia. The collected specimens were morphologically described (length 4.08-4.56 mm and width 3.36-3.66 mm). Body of the predator was semi-spherical, robust, elongate oval, narrowed towards apex in posterior half, dorsal side covered with dense short hair. Larva was robust, ellipsoidal in outline and white in colour. Pupa was dark reddish brown. Therefore, the present study is the first ever report of N. fumidus as a predator of Egyptian cottony cushion scale (I. aegyptiaca) infesting C. equisetifolia in Gujarat, India.','Novius fumidus, Coccinellids, Predator, Egyptian cottony cushion scale, Casuarina equisetifolia','The present study highlights the report of I. aegyptiaca infesting C. equisetifolia in fields of Anand Agricultural University, Anand, Gujarat (India). Further, it also emphasized the occurrence of coccinellid predator N. fumidus Mulsant on Egyptian cottony cushion scale (I. aegyptiaca) infesting C. equisetifolia. ','-','Patel N.M., Patel N.B. and Raghunandan B.L. (2022). Report of Novius fumidus Mulsant (Coccinellidae: Coleoptera); A potential Predator of Egyptian Cottony Cushion Scale (Icerya aegyptiaca Douglas) Infesting Casuarina equisetifolia in Gujarat, India. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 14(4): 190-192.'),(5583,'146','Identification of Fusarium species Associated with Bakanae Disease of Basmati Rice by using Molecular Marker','Vikram Singh*, Ashwani Kumar, Promil Kapoor and Mahaveer Singh Bochalya','32 Identification of Fusarium species Associated with Bakanae Disease of Basmati Rice by using Molecular Marker Vikram Singh.pdf','',1,'Bakanae caused by Fusarium fujikuroi (Nirenberg), is emerging as a serious threat for rice (Oryza sativa L.) cultivation in India. It is supposed to be caused by Fusarium fujikuroi but other Fusarium species such as Fusarium verticilloides or Fusarium proliferatum, have also been linked to the development of this disease. Correct diagnosis and identification of the pathogen is the key to the successful management of plant disease. Identification that relies solely on cultural and morphological characteristics is unreliable for Fusarium isolates so this investigation was conducted to assess the efficiency of PCR analysis of Tef -1 alpha gene for identification purpose. From rice samples with bakanae infections, twenty six different Fusarium spp. strains were identified. Samples were collected from different districts of Haryana viz., Hisar, Jind, Fatehabad, Bhiwani, Sirsa, Panipat, Sonipat, Karnal, Yamunanagar, Kaithal and Kurukshetra, from different basmati rice varieties namely PB 1121, PB 1401, PB 1509, PB 1718 and Basmati 521. Tef-1 α genes of all isolates were successfully amplified using primers (EF 1 and EF 2) as forward and reverse, respectively. A PCR product of approximately 700 base pairs was observed for 22 Fusarium isolates, four isolates did not showed any amplification. Hence, it is recommended that Tef-1 alpha gene be analyzed to solve the limits of cultural and morphological methods in order to identify the Fusarium species linked to the bakanae disease of basmati rice.','Rice, Fusarium spp, PCR, Tef- 1 α, identification','Fusarium isolates are difficult to identify and separate using traditional methods, such as morphological techniques. Therefore, to overcome the drawbacks of conventional procedures, fast molecular techniques like PCR have been developed. Fusarium species have been more easily identified using differences in gene nucleotide sequences (Bashyal et al., 2015). In current study the Tef-1α genes of 22 isolates were successfully amplified, a PCR product of approximately 700 base pairs was observed, remaining four isolates showed no amplification. Hence, to avoid the shortcomings of cultural and morphological methods in the identification of Fusarium species linked to the bakanae disease of basmati rice, it is therefore advised that the Tef-1 gene must be assessed.','-','Vikram Singh, Ashwani Kumar, Promil Kapoor and Mahaveer Singh Bochalya (2022). Identification of Fusarium species Associated with Bakanae Disease of Basmati Rice by using Molecular Marker. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 14(4): 193-197.'),(5584,'146','Impact of Salinity on Germination Percentage and Seedling Growth in Sorghum (Sorghum bicolor L.) var. CSH – 14','Jilukara Soujanya, Bineeta Michael Bara, Prashant Kumar Rai and Abhishek Kumar Pal','33 Impact of Salinity on Germination Percentage and Seedling Growth in Sorghum _Sorghum bicolor L._ var. CSH – 14 Jilukara Soujanya.pdf','',1,'In both controlled and natural situations, salinity is one of the major concerns impacting seed germination, plant growth, and photosynthetic efficiency in the majority of species. In order to assess the effects of salinity on the quality of sorghum seeds, the current study was conducted to determine the impact of salinity on germination percentage and seedling growth in Sorghum (Sorghum bicolor L.), under controlled conditions. The experiment was carried out in the laboratory of Department of Genetics and Plant Breeding, Sam Higginbottom University of Agricultural Technology and Sciences, Prayagraj, Uttar Pradesh during 2021-2022.\r\nThe seeds are treated with KCl, CaCl2, NaCl, MgCl2 salts. The treatments are as follows, T0- Control, T1, T2, T3 – KCl @ 50, 100, 150 mM, T4, T5, T6 - CaCl2 @ 50, 100, 150 mM, T7, T8, T9 – NaCl @ 50, 100, 150 mM, T10, T11, T12 – MgCl2 @ 50, 100, 150 mM respectively. The experiment was laid out in Randomized Block Design with thirteen treatments including control which were replicated four times.\r\nThe experiment results revealed that seeds treated with CaCl2 50mM for 12 hours performed better than other treatments on seed quality in sorghum. That is Germination energy (88%), germination percentage (94.50%), root length (18.72 cm), shoot length (12.22 cm), seedling length (30.95 cm), root – shoot ratio (1.63 cm), root fresh weight (0.76 gm), root dry weight (0.15 gm), shoot fresh weight (0.84 gm), shoot dry weight (0.08 gm), seedling vigour index I (2926.56), seedling vigour index II (23.15) found highest in T4 treatment than all other treatments.\r\n','Sorghum, Salinity, Different Salts, Germination, Seedling Growth','From the present investigation it is concluded that with the increase of salinity there is a significant decrease in germination and seedling growth. Among the various seed treatment treating the seed with CaCl2 50 mM for 12 hours was found to be more effective.\r\nThe study clearly indicated that CaCl2 50 mM salt treatment was superior to other treatments based on its positive effects on germination and seedling traits. That is Germination energy (88%), germination percentage (94.50%), root length (18.72 cm), shoot length (12.22 cm), seedling length (30.95 cm), root – shoot ratio (1.63 cm), root fresh weight (0.76 gm), root dry weight (0.15 gm), shoot fresh weight (0.84 gm), shoot dry weight (0.08 gm), seedling vigour index I (2926.56), seedling vigour index II (23.15) found highest in T4 treatment than all other treatments.\r\n','-','Jilukara Soujanya, Bineeta Michael Bara, Prashant Kumar Rai and Abhishek Kumar Pal (2022). Impact of Salinity on Germination Percentage and Seedling Growth in Sorghum (Sorghum bicolor L.) var. CSH – 14. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 14(4): 198-202.'),(5585,'146','Novel and Sustainable Approaches to Combat Climate Change in the Agriculture Sector: A Review','Guntamukkala Sekhar, Jami Naveen, Sushmita Thokchom, Prem Kumar Bharteey, Rajnish Yadav, Sarvajeet and Rajesh Kumar','34 Novel and Sustainable Approaches to Combat Climate Change in the Agriculture Sector A Review Prem Kumar Bharteey.pdf','',1,'Climate change is posing a huge threat for agricultural production at local, national and global level. As a result there is a declined production in agriculture owing to various abiotic and biotic stresses. In this scenario there is a need to follow certain sustainable and innovative agricultural practices to confront several issues like declining food productivity and operational landholdings and also to ensure food security to the ever growing population by mitigating or adopting our agri-food systems to various stresses. The possible interventions viz. smart farming technologies, nitrogen fixing cereals, genetically modified crops, improvement in residue management, conservation agriculture, soil health improvement through cover crops, nanofertilizers for increased nutrient use efficiency, bioplastic mulches, urea briquette applicator in rice, silicon application in crops, speed breeding, laser land levelling are some of the sustainable cum innovative practices to improve the resilience in agriculture sector in the current climate change scenario.','Climate change, resilience, productivity, technologies, agriculture','Climate wise agriculture is a set of agricultural techniques aiming at increasing agricultural output, reducing greenhouse gas emissions, and mitigating the consequences of climatic extremes. Smart farming, on the other hand, stresses the use of information and communication technology for high-tech farming, such as the Internet of Things (IoT) and digital technologies that aid in data analytics, machine learning, and artificial intelligence. Exploring the possibilities of IT-enabled services and future technologies such as IoT and robotics, for example, would provide growers with real-time data on crop and soil health. Climate smart agriculture and smart farming were studied independently until recently, and digital tools, IoT, and robotics were not sufficiently explored to comprehend and remove the effects of climatic changes. One of the primary challenges is that the digital agriculture market and farmers\' demands and expectations are vastly different. Smart agriculture has a lot of potential in agro-based economies like India, but it requires the integration of numerous new and existing technologies as well as crop protection techniques for long-term output. These technologies should be used with genetic engineering, such as CRISPR, to boost crop yields. CRISPR has the potential to change agriculture by allowing farmers to build cultivars and crop technologies based on genetically modified species to produce desired crop features for more resilient farming.','-','Guntamukkala Sekhar, Jami Naveen, Sushmita Thokchom, Prem Kumar Bharteey, Rajnish Yadav, Sarvajeet and Rajesh Kumar (2022). Novel and Sustainable Approaches to Combat Climate Change in the Agriculture Sector: A Review. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 14(4): 203-210.'),(5586,'146','Relative Toxicity of New insecticide Molecules against Rice Leaf Folder and Brown Plant Hopper and their effect on Natural Enemies','S.D. Mohapatra, Munmun Mohapatra and Swoyam Singh','35 Relative Toxicity of New insecticide Molecules against Rice Leaf Folder and Brown Plant Hopper and their Effect on Natural Enemies S.D. Mohapatra.pdf','',1,'In the recent years, new selective insecticides non-toxic to natural enemies has enhanced the pest management efficiency and safe guarding the crop ecosystem. Moreover, pesticides with single active principle are likely to induce the development of resistance in insects. The present experiment on the newer molecules were conducted during kharif 2019 and rabi 2020 to assess the relative toxicity of triflumezopyrim 10% + spinetoram 12% WDG (22%) WDG against rice leaf folder and brown plant hopper and their study on safety to natural enemies. The experiment was comprising of seven treatments viz., T1: Triflumezopyrim 10% + spinetoram 12% (22%) WDG@ 44 g ai ha-1; T2: Triflumezopyrim 10% + spinetoram 12% (22%) WDG @ 55 g ai ha-1; T3: Triflumezopyrim 10% + spinetoram 12% (22%) WDG @ 66 g ai ha-1; T4: Triflumezopyrim 10.6% SC@ 25 g ai ha-1; T5: Spinetoram 12% SC @ 30 g ai ha-1; T6: Fipronil 5% SC @ 75 g ai ha-1; T7: Untreated Control. The lowest BPH population was recorded in triflumezopyrim 10% + spinetoram 12% (22%) WDG @ 66 g aiha-1 which are statistically at par with triflumezopyrim 10% + spinetoram 12% (22%) WDG @ 55 g aiha-1 throughout the observation. Similarly, lowest leaf folder damaged leaf (LFDL) was recorded in triflumezopyrim 10% + spinetoram 12% (22%) WDG @ 66 g aiha-1. Triflumezopyram 10% + spinetoram 12% (22%) WDG @ 55 g aiha-1 provided effective control of leaf folder and brown plant hopper. Further, triflumezopyrim 10% + spinetoram 12% (22%) WDG@ 55 g aiha-1 was found to be safe to the predatory mirid bug, Cyrtorhinus lividipennis and wolf spider, Pardosa pseudoannulata in rice ecosystem.','Toxicity, triflumezopyrim, spinetoram, leaf folder, brown plant hopper, natural enemies, rice','The present investigation on relative toxicity of triflumezopyrim 10% + spinetoram 12% (22%) WDG conducted during kharif, 2019 and rabi 2020 showed that triflumezopyrim 10% + spinetoram 12% (22%) WDG provided effective control of leaf folder and brown planthopper. Further, triflumezopyrim 10% + spinetoram 12% (22%) WDG @ 55g ai ha-1 has no significant difference with triflumezopyrim 10% + spinetoram 12% (22%) WDG @ 66g ai ha-1 w.r.t. safety to the predatory mirid bug, Cyrtorhinus lividipennis and wolf spider, Pardosa pseudoannulata and grain yield. Hence, triflumezopyrim 10% + spinetoram 12% (22%) WDG@ 55 g aiha-1 may be recommended to manage leaf folder and brown planthopper in rice.','-','S.D. Mohapatra, Munmun Mohapatra and Swoyam Singh (2022). Relative Toxicity of New insecticide Molecules against Rice Leaf Folder and Brown Plant Hopper and their Effect on Natural Enemies. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 14(4): 211-216.'),(5587,'146','Assessment of Irrigation (ground) Water Quality and Creation of Thematic Mapping in the Coastal Soils of R S Mangalam Block, Ramanathapuram District, Tamil Nadu, India','V. Arulkumar, J. Prabhaharan, R. Shanmugasundaram, A. Gurusamy and M.L. Mini','36 Assessment of Irrigation _ground_ Water Quality and Creation of Thematic Mapping in the Coastal Soils of R S Mangalam Block, Ramanathapuram V. Arulkumar.pdf','',1,'To developments in urbanisation and industrialization, which overuse groundwater, the quality of irrigation water is becoming more and more important. In July 2019 at various intervals, ground water samples were collected from 17 revenue villages in the R S Mangalam block of the Ramanathapuram district of Tamil Nadu. The samples were then processed and analyzed for various physico-chemical parameters including cationic and anionic characteristics to determine the quality and there by estimating the parameters such as SAR (Sodium Adsorption Ratio), RSC (Residual Sodium Carbonate), TDS (Total Dissolved Solids) (Soluble Sodium Percentage). The results revealed that even-though the cumulative mean values lie well within the range of safe limit for water quality, 37 percent of the water samples were reported with high salinity levels, the other37 percent of the samples were slightly saline and the rest 26 percent as non-saline. The highest value of pH (8.69), EC (47.93 dSm-1), SAR (37.46 meq/l), RSC (7.11meq/l), TDS (30675.20 meq/l) and SSP (80.57 %) were noted in the analyzed samples. The water quality parameters data along with GPS readings were used for the preparation of thematic maps of R S Mangalam block, Ramanathapuram district. ','Anions, Cations, Derived parameters, GPS and GIS techniques, Water quality','The information generated from the current study regarding the quality of irrigation water will be resourceful in the development of agricultural and environmental policies of sustainable irrigation. This will also serve as warning bell for taking up the water conservation measures. Georeferenced maps also help in monitoring changes in nutrient status over a period of time by revisiting with the help of GPS. It was discovered from the study that analysis of underground irrigation water samples of the Ramanathapuram block that majority of the water became alkaline in nature. The EC parameter of the tested samples ranged from 0.95 to 9.73 dSm-1 with a cumulative mean value of 3.88 dSm-1 which therein indicates that most of the water tends to be saline. The parameters RSC (Residual Sodium Carbonate) and SAR (Sodium Absorption Ratio) values indicated that there is a moderate level of problematic water in this zone. The SSP values indicated high soluble sodium percentage (> 50 %) in the Ramnad block. The effective management practices can be made in specific problematic areas.','-','V. Arulkumar, J. Prabhaharan, R. Shanmugasundaram, A. Gurusamy and M.L. Mini (2022). Assessment of Irrigation (ground) Water Quality and Creation of Thematic Mapping in the Coastal Soils of R S Mangalam Block, Ramanathapuram District, Tamil Nadu, India. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 14(4): 217-224.'),(5588,'146','Management of Collar Rot Disease of Groundnut under Field condition','B. Teja Bhushan, M. Reddi Kumar, R. Sarada Jayalakshmi, A. Srividhya and Emani Rajeswari','37 Management of Collar Rot Disease of Groundnut under Field condition B. Teja Bhushan.pdf','',1,'Groundnut is a major oilseed and food crop in India and across the world. The groundnut crop is being affected by a variety of diseases. Among them collar rot is a serious pathogen that causes heavy losses in groundnut cultivation. Collar rot is a seed-borne disease that causes seed rotting and reduces germination. The current investigation concentrated mostly on collar rot management in the field. In field experiment conducted during Rabi, 2018-19, treatment T5 (seed treatment with mancozeb at half recommended dose i.e., 1.25 g kg-1 seed + potential isolate of Trichoderma spp. i.e., GT2 in Talc formulation @ 4 g kg-1 seed) showed least per cent disease incidence at 7 DAS (3.47 %), 15 DAS (2.40 %), 30 DAS (1.76 %) and maximum germination per cent (92.17 %), shoot length (34.67 cm), root length (14.06 cm), fresh weight (376.45 g), dry weight (174.44 g) and yield (2522.22 kg ha-1) among different treatments.','Collar rot, Groundnut, mancozeb, seed treatment, Trichoderma spp., yield','The current research concludes that groundnut collar rot disease is complicated in nature owing to the connection of many soil-borne pathogens, and that there is a need for the combination of cultural, biological, and chemical strategies in plant disease management. Integration of bioagents and fungicides in field experiments and groundnut collar rot disease control assessment in farmer fields can be undertaken in the future.','-','B. Teja Bhushan, M. Reddi Kumar, R. Sarada Jayalakshmi, A. Srividhya and Emani Rajeswari (2022). Management of Collar Rot Disease of Groundnut under Field condition. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 14(4): 225-231.'),(5589,'146','Biochemical and Sensory Characterization of Chicken Eggs from different Farm Production System','Deepak Singh, Nazim Ali, Dev Saran Sahu, Mahesh Kumar Bharti, Ahmad Fahim and Pramod Kumar Maddheshiya','38 Biochemical and Sensory Characterization of Chicken Eggs from different Farm Production System Deepak Singh.pdf','',1,'The objective of this study was to evaluate the biochemical and sensory evaluation of chicken eggs from different farm system. Biochemical parameters such as total protein and glucose in egg white was analyzed 4.49±0.13, 3.85±0.13 and 2.27±0.13, (mg/ml) and 0.72±0.03, 0.78±0.03, and 0.84±0.03 (mg/ml), total cholesterol in egg yolk was 10.11±0.09, 9.01±0.09, and 7.56±0.09 (mg/ml). But the total cholesterol in whole egg was analyzed 5.51±0.05, 6.44±0.05, and 4.42±0.05 (mg/ml) for mechanized, semi-mechanized, and non-mechanized farms respectively. The biochemical parameter of egg from different farm indicated that protein and cholesterol content was significantly higher (P<0.01) in the eggs from mechanized farm, but lower in carbohydrate content. During sensory evaluation of egg the overall acceptability in terms of taste and flavor of eggs collected from mechanized poultry farms at day 1, day 7, day 14, and day 28 was significantly higher (P<0.01). The sensory attributes in term of taste, flavor, and over all acceptability was superior in eggs collected from mechanized farm. The results revealed that the external and internal egg traits differ with the level of mechanization. The eggs from mechanized farm were found to be superior in overall quality, taste and had greater shelf life.','Chicken eggs, total protein, total cholesterol, glucose and sensory evaluation','Undoubtedly one of the most adaptable food is chicken eggs. They include vital vitamins, minerals, and high-quality proteins, carbs, and fats that are simple to digest. Our study showed a significance difference in the biochemical composition of eggs produced under different farm conditions. Biochemical analysis revealed a significance difference in total protein, total cholesterol and glucose. Protein content of egg under different farm system was higher in the eggs of mechanized farm system and the carbohydrate content was lower in the mechanized system but cholesterol content was lower in non-mechanized farm. In case of sensory evaluation of eggs, the trained panelists showed that the eggs from mechanized farm system were preferable in terms of flavor, aroma, and overall acceptability. So the sensory attributes in term of taste, flavor, and over all acceptability was superior in eggs collected from mechanized farm.','-','Deepak Singh, Nazim Ali, Dev Saran Sahu, Mahesh Kumar Bharti, Ahmad Fahim and Pramod Kumar Maddheshiya (2022). Biochemical and Sensory Characterization of Chicken Eggs from different Farm Production System. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 14(4): 232-236.'),(5590,'146','Survey of Mango sudden Decline Disease in Major Mango Growing Regions of Andhra Pradesh','G.V.S. Brhamaramba, B.K.M. Lakshmi, Ch. S. Kishore Kumar, C.P. Vijji and K. Uma Krishna','39 Survey of Mango sudden Decline Disease in Major Mango Growing Regions of Andhra Pradesh G.V.S Brhamaramba.pdf','',1,'A Survey was conducted to assess the incidence and severity of Mango sudden decline in major Mango growing areas of Andhra Pradesh viz., Krishna and West Godavari districts during 2021-22. During this survey Symptoms like dieback, oozing odgum, vascular discolouration and stem cracking was mostly observed. Among the orchards surveyed disease incidence is more in the Krishna district when compared to West Godavari with an average disease incidence of 31.20%, whereas in West Godavari it was recorded 12.80%. The maximum per cent disease incidence was recorded 42.80% in Tatakuntla village of Vissannapetamandal in Krishna district, followed by 33.40% and 32.40% in Narsapuram and Hanumathunigudem respectively, whereas minimum percent disease incidence of 10.40% was observed in Dorasanipadu village of Dwaraka Tirumala mandal in West Godavari district. Among the surveyed orchards the mean severity of Krishna district was 22.96% which is much higher than West Godavari which has recorded a mean severity of 4.61%. Highest disease severity (34.60%) was recorded in Tatakuntla village in Krishna district followed by Narsapuram and Hanumathunigudem with severity of 25.30% and 22.60% respectively, while the minimum severity was observed as 2.40% in Dorasanipadu village in West Godavari district.','Mango sudden decline, Mango, Disease incidence, Disease severity, Survey','Survey conducted in two major mango growing districts of Andhra Pradesh, in India revealed that there is more incidence in Krishna district and the pathogen is soil borne. It is minor problem encountered in mango orchards but gaining importance now-a days due sudden death of mango trees. Therefore, precautionary action is needed to prevent any future outbreaks of this disease.','-','G.V.S. Brhamaramba, B.K.M. Lakshmi, Ch. S. Kishore Kumar , C.P Vijji and K. Uma Krishna (2022). Survey of Mango sudden Decline Disease in Major Mango Growing Regions of Andhra Pradesh. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 14(4): 237-240.'),(5591,'146','Genetic Divergence of Kapoori Betelvine Accessions based on Morphological Traits','Pooja A., Aparna D., Himabindhu K., Ravindra Babu, M. and Salomisuneetha D.R.','40 Effect of Doses of Potassium, FYM and Potassium Solubilizing Bacteria on Kernel Yield, Stover Yield and Drymatter Production in Maize Pooja A.pdf','',1,'Betelvine is a heritage crop of India and is cultivated for its fresh leaves which are masticatory. As it is a dioecious, Kapoori accessions belongs to male plants which are useful for hybridization programmes in betelvine. Genetic diversity is major tool for crop improvement, so there is a need to analyse the diversity in the accessions. Genetic divergence was assessed using mahalanobis D2analysis for 17 betelvine accessions for 18 characters. Based on morphological characters the accessions were grouped into five clusters, the highest inter cluster distance was observed between cluster V and IV, which indicates that there was much diversity and the highest intra cluster distance was observed in cluster II which indicates that it has most divergent accessions within the cluster. Based on cluster means, cluster IV has highest mean values for plant, leaf and yield characters. Hence these divergent and the genotypes with desirable character can be used as male parent for further crop improvement programme in betelvine.','Kapoori, Mahalanobis D2 analysis, Genetic Divergence, Cluster analysis','The cluster analysis depicts the distance between and among the accessions. 17 accessions grouped into 5 clusters. In this study cluster (Tellaku Ponnuru and Swarna Kapoori) recorded the maximum diversity with respect to morphological variations. These accessions can be used for the purposes of high yielding traits as a male parent in the hybridization programme.','-','Pooja A., Aparna D., Himabindhu K., Ravindra Babu, M. and Salomisuneetha D.R. (2022). Genetic Divergence of Kapoori Betelvine Accessions based on Morphological Traits. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 14(4): 241-243.'),(5592,'146','Influence of Irrigation Scheduling on Productivity of Wheat + Mustard Intercropping System','Jitendra Sisodiya, P.B. Sharma, Badal Verma*, Muskan Porwal, Mahendra Anjna and Rahul Yadav','41 Influence of Irrigation Scheduling on Productivity of Wheat + Mustard Intercropping System Badal Verma.pdf','',1,'The water resources are rapidly declining due to nominal recharging by rainfalls. Thus, the water applied through irrigation should focus on its judicious use by utilizing every drop of water. However, irrigation at a suitable IW/CPE ratio in cereal legume intercropping systems can improve the system\'s productivity in addition to proficient use of water. Therefore, a field experiment was conducted at Instructional Research Farm, Krishi Nagar, Department of Agronomy, College of Agriculture, Jawaharlal Nehru Krishi Vishwa Vidyalaya, Jabalpur (M.P.) during Rabi season 2020-21 to study the effect of irrigation scheduling on different intercropping practices. The experiment was laid out in a split-plot design with fifteen treatment combinations and replicated thrice. The results revealed that, among the irrigation scheduling, different parameters, i.e., plant height, dry matter production, and also grain and seed yield, were recorded higher in irrigation scheduling of 1.0 Irrigation water/Cumulative pan evaporation ratio and most suitable for the wheat + mustard intercropping system after that 0.8 IW/CPE ratio and lower in scheduling irrigation at 0.6 IW/CPE ratio. Among intercropping practices, sole wheat and mustard recorded higher crop growth parameters and yield. IW/CPE of 0.6 with an 8:2 row ratio gives higher LER and is most suitable for wheat + mustard intercropping system.','Irrigation scheduling, IW/CPE ratio, LER, Wheat + mustard intercropping','Results of the present study revealed that the irrigation schedule at IW/CPE 1.0 is more suitable for the wheat + mustard intercropping system due to the more productive and profitable, and harmonious interaction of IW/CPE 0.6 with 8:2 row ratio gives higher LER (1.92) was significantly superior to rest of other treatments.','-','Jitendra Sisodiya, P.B. Sharma, Badal Verma, Muskan Porwal, Mahendra Anjna and Rahul Yadav (2022). Influence of Irrigation Scheduling on Productivity of Wheat + Mustard Intercropping System. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 14(4): 244-247.'),(5593,'146','Genetic Variability, Correlation and Path Analysis in Forage Bajra [Pennisetum glaucum (L.) R. Br.]','Sumitkumar V. Parmar, Dipakkumar P. Gohil, Vikram K. Suvatar and Tejaskumar H. Borkhatariya','42 Genetic Variability, Correlation and Path Analysis in Forage Bajra [Pennisetum glaucum _L._ R. Br.] Sumit V. Parmar.pdf','',1,'An experiment comprised of fifty diverse accessions of forage [Pennisetum glaucum (L.) R. Br.] was conducted in randomized complete block design with three replications during Kharif -2020 at Main Forage Research Station, Anand Agricultural University, Anand to study the genetic variability, heritability, genetic advance, characters association and path coefficient analysis. The magnitude of phenotypic coefficient of variation was observed higher than corresponding genotypic coefficient of variation for all the characters under study. High genotypic and phenotypic coefficient of variations were observed for crude protein yield per plant, green forage yield per plant and dry matter yield per plant, which indicated the presence of sufficient amount of variability for these traits. High heritability coupled with high genetic advance for green forage yield per plant, plant height, stem thickness, leaf width and number of leaves per plant indicated good response of selection. Plant height, leaf length, leaf width, stem thickness, dry matter yield per plant, crude protein yield per plant and neutral detergent fiber content showed positive and significant correlation with green forage yield per plant and its quality at both genotypic and phonotypic levels. Path analysis indicated dry matter yield per plant, crude protein yield per plant, number of tillers per plant and stem thickness exerted a strong positive direct effect on green forage yield per plant.','Forage bajra, Variability, Path analysis, Correlation coefficient, Fodder quality','From the present investigation, it can be concluded that due weightage should be given to plant height, leaf length, leaf width, stem thickness, number of tillers per plant, dry matter yield per plant, crude protein yield per plant and neutral detergent fibre content while imposing selection for genetic improvement of green forage yield per plant in forage bajra. On the basis of per se performance the genotypes viz., Giant Bajra, GP 138, AFB 3, ICMV 1611, 743 KH 16, ICMV 1701, ICMV 1608, ICMV 1616 can be further utilized in the future breeding programme for the development of high yielding varieties/ hybrids in forage bajra.','-','Sumitkumar V. Parmar, Dipakkumar P. Gohil, Vikram K. Suvatar and Tejaskumar H. Borkhatariya (2022). Genetic Variability, Correlation and Path Analysis in Forage Bajra [Pennisetum glaucum (L.) R. Br.]. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 14(4): 248-252.'),(5594,'146','Evaluation of Quality Attributes of litchi (Litchi chinensis Sonn.) flavoured Honey Yoghurt during Storage','Gaurav Chaudhary, Ameeta Salaria, Sharanagouda, B., Shalini Arora and Girraj Kishore','43 Evaluation of Quality Attributes of litchi _Litchi chinensis Sonn._ flavoured Honey Yoghurt during Storage Gaurav Chaudhary.pdf','',1,'Yoghurt is one of the widely popular dairy products. Various sweetening agents are used for enhancing their perceptibility. The inclusion of honey in yoghurt not only provides the desired sensorial attributes but further promotes probiotic growth and functional characteristics. Litchi could be utilized for further enhancement of desired attributes such as natural flavour, colour, and other nutritional, pharmacological, and techno-functional characteristics. The major challenge was to see, effect of addition of lithi fruit with honey as sweetener. In this study fresh litchi pulp at @ 2, 4, and 6% was used. The formulated litchi-flavoured stirred honey yoghurt was examined for several physicochemical parameters such as pH, acidity, syneresis, and tyrosine value during refrigerated storage at an interval of 5 days for 20 days. Our investigation revealed a substantial (p<0.05) reduction in pH and an increase in acidity, syneresis, and tyrosine value among different treatments during storage. Plain (natural) and litchi-flavoured stirred honey yoghurt were also reported to be considerably different. The outcomes of study is there is significant increased syneresis and degree of proteolysis as a result that the product could be kept well up to15 days of refrigerated storage.','Litchi, yoghurt, tyrosine value, acidity, syneresis','According to the research presented, adding fruit pulp in varying quantities had an impact on the overall quality of stirred fruit yoghurts. Lichi pulp @ 4% concentration, was significantly better in terms of chemical changes. The plain and fruit and honey yoghurt may be kept for up to 15 days at 5°C..The future studies must focus on increasing the shelf life of such products and reducing the increase in syneresis and proteolysis. There is a scope to study the effect of the addition of litchi pulp and honey as sweetener on sensory perception and use of different stabilisers to improve the overall quality of yoghurt.','-','Gaurav Chaudhary, Ameeta Salaria, Sharanagouda, B., Shalini Arora and Girraj Kishore (2022). Evaluation of Quality Attributes of litchi (Litchi chinensis Sonn.) flavoured Honey Yoghurt during Storage. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 14(4): 253-257.'),(5595,'146','Influence of Organics and Inorganics on Mineralization of Nitrogen in the Soil under Controlled condition','Shiva Kumar H.D., Kalyana Murthy K.N., Anand M.R., Prakasha H.C., Boraiah B. and Nanjareddy Y.A.','44 Influence of Organics and Inorganics on Mineralization of Nitrogen in the Soil under Controlled condition - SHIVA KUMAR HD.pdf','',1,'Understanding nitrogen release patterns from decomposing organic manures will help in optimizing nitrogen use efficiency in crop production systems. In a pot-culture experiment of finger millet carried out for 10 weeks period, a significantly higher nitrate nitrogen (NO3--N) content (48.6, 47.51 and 48.52 mg kg-1, respectively) was recorded with 100% RDN through FYM + 25% through inorganic fertilizers at 56, 63 and 70 DAI. The NO3--N content recorded in Only inorganics treatment was found significantly higher than NO3--N content recorded in treatments 100% RDN through FYM + 25% through inorganic fertilizers, 75% RDN through FYM + 25% through inorganic fertilizers and Only organics treatments at 14, 21, 28, 35, 42, 49 DAI. The significantly higher Ammonical nitrogen (NH4+-N)content (28.65, 40.80, 51.14, 55.46, 61.37, 69.01 and 62.92 mg kg-1, respectively) was recorded in Only inorganics treatment at 7, 14, 21, 28, 35, 42, 49 DAI which decreased thereafter until 70 days followed by 100% RDN through FYM + 25% through Inorganic fertilizers (24.46, 30.69, 41.77, 48.48, 55.71, 59.25 and 59.24 mg kg-1, respectively) and 75% RDN through FYM + 25% through inorganic fertilizers(23.08, 25.40, 37.66, 44.60, 51.58, 55.75 and 56.94 mg kg-1, respectively) and at 56, 63 and 70 DAI significantly higher NH4+-N content (61.88, 62.13 and 61.13 mg kg-1, respectively) was recorded with 100% RDN through FYM + 25% through Inorganic fertilizers. Our pot-culture results suggest that the use of organic manures as the source ofN supply for crops for short and long term should be encouraged. ','Nitrate nitrogen (NO3-N), Ammonical nitrogen (NH4+-N), Mineralization of Nitrogen, Manure Levels, Pot-culture, Finger Millet.','From this study, it can be concluded that the integrated use of inorganic fertilizers with organic manures represents the sound practice for sustaining the nitrogen reserves in soil and this will be a more beneficial proposition than the application of inorganics alone in improving the soil nitrogen status and enhancing nutrient availability to the crop during the critical stages of nutrient requirement and yield under an intensive cropping system.','-',' Shiva Kumar H.D., Kalyana Murthy K.N., Anand M.R., Prakasha H.C., Boraiah B. and Nanjareddy Y.A. (2022). Influence of Organics and Inorganics on Mineralization of Nitrogen in the Soil under Controlled condition. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 14(4): 258-262.'),(5596,'146','Cation Exchange Capacity of different Fractions of Compost produced from Bacterial inoculation to Agro-wastes','K. Padhan, R.K. Patra, S.K. Sahoo, S. Mohanty, R.K. Panda, N. Panda, S.G. Sahu, K. Kumar and D. Sethi','45 Cation Exchange Capacity of different Fractions of Compost produced from Bacterial inoculation to Agro-wastes K. Padhan.pdf','',1,'In-situ Agro-waste management become a challenge now a days. One of the best managements is to decompose the agro-waste by inoculation of microbes. In this experiment the three agro-wastes were decomposed by taking three isolated cellulose degrading bacterial strain. The experimental was carried out in Department of Soil Science and Agricultural Chemistry, College of Agriculture, Bhubaneswar, India. The different size fractions of matured compost were determined by sieving manually with 4 mm, 2 mm, 1 mm and 0.5 mm sieve and Cation exchange capacity was determined by ammonium acetate saturation method. The inoculation of CBC9, CBD4 and CBG2 to maize stover resulted into 92, 93 and 95% of <4mm, 83, 86 and 87% <2mm, 32, 35 and 36% <1mm and 5, 7 and 8% <0.5mm size compost. The smallest (<0.5 mm) size fraction compost was higher in vegetable waste followed by maize stover and paddy straw. The cation exchange capacity of all the size fractions were highest in CBG2 inoculated compost followed by CBD4, CBC9 and lowest was in uninoculated compost. Likewise, among the substrates highest cation exchange capacity was estimated in vegetable wastes followed by maize stover and paddy straw. Among all compost, lowest cation exchange capacity (45 cmol (p)+ kg-1) was estimated in <4mm compost where paddy straw was not inoculated with any strains and highest (277 cmol (p)+ kg-1) was estimated in the <0.5 mm size compost produced from vegetable wastes inoculated with CBG2 strain.','Cation Exchange Capacity, Cellulose Degrading Bacteria, Composting, Size Fraction','Among three substrates, vegetable waste is better for production of compost with higher per cent of smaller fractions and higher cation exchange capacity. Among the strains CBG2 was most effective in production of compost with higher percent of smaller fraction and higher cation exchange capacity.','-','K. Padhan, R.K. Patra, S.K. Sahoo, S. Mohanty, R.K. Panda, N. Panda, S.G. Sahu, K. Kumar and D. Sethi (2022). Cation Exchange Capacity of different Fractions of Compost produced from Bacterial inoculation to agro-wastes. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 14(4): 263-266.'),(5597,'146','Low Cost Plastic Materials for Construction of Flow Measuring Structures','Chitte Karishma, B. Krishna Rao, K. Yella Reddy, P.K. Mishra, A. Mani, S. Annapurna, B. Hari Babu and V. Srinivas Rao','46 Low Cost Plastic Materials for Construction of Flow Measuring Structures Chitte Karishma.pdf','',1,'The efficiency of irrigation projects depends on effective flow control and regulation and it require proper measurement and quantification. Low-cost, low-density and environmentally resistant materials with minimal maintenance and long service life are the prerequisite for any flow measurement structures/devices. In this study various properties of the different plastic materials were studied. From the study it is observed that many physical, chemical and other properties are favorable for poly prophelyne plastic materials. It is also mentioned that poly propylene is cost effective in comparison to other plastic materials. Based on this study, it is concluded that, Poly prophelyne can effectively used for construction and fabrication of flow measuring devices. ','Polymers, Plastic Materials, properties, flow measuring devices','In the present study most commonly available plastic materials such as FRP, HDPE, PVC and PP were tested for constructing flow measuring structures. From the study it is observed that many physical, mechanical and other properties are favorable for poly prophelyne plastic materials. It is also mentioned that poly propylene is cost effective in comparison to other plastic materials. Based on this study, it is concluded that, Poly prophelyne can effectively used for construction and fabrication of flow measuring devices. ','-','Chitte Karishma, B. Krishna Rao, K. Yella Reddy, P.K. Mishra, A. Mani, S. Annapurna, B. Hari Babu and V. Srinivas Rao (2022). Low Cost Plastic Materials for Construction of Flow Measuring Structures. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 14(4): 267-270.'),(5598,'146','Effect of GA3, Zinc Sulphate and Borax on Fruit Drop, Fruit Cracking Length of Fruit, Fruit Diameter, Weight of Fruits and Weight of Pulp, of Litchi Cultivar Dehradun','Ajey Pratap Singh, Viveka Nand*, Dipankar Singh Badal, Pradeep Kumar and Anand Singh Rawat','47 Effect of GA3, Zinc Sulphate and Borax on Fruit Drop, Fruit Cracking Length of Fruit, Fruit Diameter, Weight of Fruits and Weight of Pulp, of Litchi Cultivar Dehradun Viveka Nand.pdf','',1,'The present investigation entitled “Effect of GA3, zinc sulphate and borax on fruit drop and fruit cracking of litchi (Litchi chinensis Sonn.) cv. Dehradun” was carried out at garden, Department of Horticulture, Chandra Shekhar Azad University of Agriculture & Technology, Kanpur during the year 2019. During studied seven uniform plants of litchi cv. Dehradun formed the experimental material, four uniform branches in growth and vigour were selected on each tree. The following observations were recorded randomly selected samples of ten fruits from each treatments and three replications. The different treatments used were control (water spray), GA3 25 ppm, GA3 50 ppm, ZnSO4 0.2%, ZnSO4 0.4% and Borax 0.2%, Borax 0.4%. The experiment was planned in a Completely Randomized Design with four replications. The minimum fruit drop percentage was obtained under spray of GA3 25 ppm followed by Borax 0.4%. The foliar application of Borax 0.4% exhibited reduction in cracking of litchi fruits (9.45%) as compared with control (16.15%) followed by Borax 0.2%.','Litchi, quality, fruit cracking, Boron, Zinc and Gibberellic acid','On the basis of sprays of plant growth regulators and mineral nutrients i.e., GA3, ZnSO4 and Borax which influenced different parameters including in this research trial. The foliar application of Borax 0.4 per cent proved most effective and optimum for fruit cracking, length of fruit of litchi fruit cv. Dehradun. The second effective treatment GA3 50 ppm was identifies in present investigation for diameter of fruit, fruit weight, pulp weight.','-','Ajey Pratap Singh, Viveka Nand, Dipankar Singh Badal, Pradeep Kumar and Anand Singh Rawat (2022). Effect of GA3, Zinc Sulphate and Borax on Fruit Drop, Fruit Cracking Length of Fruit, Fruit Diameter, Weight of Fruits and Weight of Pulp, of Litchi Cultivar Dehradun. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 14(4): 271-275.'),(5599,'146','Management of Cercospora Leaf Spot in Mungbean by use of Botanicals, Fungicides and Bio-agents','Rahul Singh Raghuvanshi, Subhash Chandra, Abhishek Singh, Vivek Singh, Sakshi Pandey and Vishwa Vijay Raghuvanshi','48 Management of Cercospora Leaf Spot in Mungbean by use of Botanicals, Fungicides and Bio-agents Rahul Singh Raghuvanshi.pdf','',1,'This study aimed to investigate the efficiency of Management of Cercospora leaf spot in mungbean by use of botanicals, fungicides and bio-agents.\r\nThe mungbean crop is infected by a large number of pathogens such as fungi, bacteria, virus and nematodes in which mungbean Cercospora Leaf Spot causes significantly losses. At present Cercospora Leaf Spot is being managed by using fungicide through seed and soil treatment. However, fungicides are more costly and pollutant to environment. Many plant extracts are known to have antifungal activity. During the present investigation, extract of 5 plants species namely, Neem, Garlic, Tulsi, Onion, Ginger were evaluated for fungi toxicity against C. canescens by using poison food technique. \r\nThe per cent inhibition in radial growth of Cercospora canescens was maximum in Garlic (85.22 %), followed by Tulsi (84.35 %), Onion (84.13 %), Ginger (83.48 %), Neem (72.61 %). The minimum growth is recorded in Neem (58.51), however Ginger and Onion, Tulsi, Onion and Tulsi, Garlic, Tulsi and Garlic were significantly at par to each other, Garlic was found significantly superior at 10 per cent concentration after 7 days of incubation. The efficacy of chemicals in vitro revealed that Carbendazim completely inhibited the mycelial growth of C. canescens at 200 ppm concentration. Bio-agents, Trichoderma viride and Trichoderma harzianum were evaluated by using dual culture technique against Cercospora canescens causing leaf spot of mungbean. The radial growth were (10.20 mm) and (19.30 mm) in T. viride and T. harzianum, respectively at 7 days of incubation which differed significantly from each other.\r\n','Botanicals, Garlic, Cercospora, Bio-agent, Chemicals','1. The efficacy of botanicals Five plant extracts viz., Neem, Garlic, Tulsi, Onion, Ginger were tested in vitro against Cercospora canescens. Food poison technique.\r\nAll the five plant extracts showed significant reduction in radial growth of test fungus at different concentrations (5.00 and 10.00 %). The affectivity of extracts increased with an increase in concentration and time of incubation (4 and 7 days).\r\n(a) At 10.00 per cent concentration minimum radial growth was obtained in Garlic (5.10 mm) followed by Tulsi (5.40 mm), Onion (5.50 mm), Ginger (5.70 mm), Neem (9.50 mm), compared to control ( 42.00 mm), Each treatment significantly superior to control. Garlic and Tulsi, Onion, Tulsi and Onion, Ginger, Onion and Ginger were significantly at par to each other, however Ginger and Neem statistically different to each other. \r\n(b) The per cent inhibition in radial growth of C. canescens was maximum in Garlic (85.22 %), followed by Tulsi (84.35 %), Onion (84.13 %), Ginger (83.48 %), Neem (72.61 %). The minimum growth is recorded in Neem (58.51), however Ginger and Onion, Tulsi, Onion and Tulsi, Garlic, Tulsi and Garlic were significantly at par to each other, Garlic was found significantly superior at 10 per cent concentration after 7 days of incubation.\r\nThe similar trends were also observed in case of 5 per cent concentration after 4 days of incubation.\r\n2. The efficacy of chemicals In vitro During assessment of two fungicides namely, Carbendazim and Thiram and against C. canescens revealed that Carbendazim completely inhibited the mycelial growth of C. canescens at 200 ppm concentration. while the 500 ppm concentration radial growth were completely inhibited, however Thiram provided the some growth at 500 ppm concentration. \r\n3. The efficacy of bio-agents Trichoderma viride and T. harzianum were tested In vitro for growth and per cent inhibition of C. canescens. By usingdual culture technique. T. viridewas more effective as compared to T. harzianum in inhibiting the mycelial growth of C. canescens. 4 and 7days of incubation.\r\n(a) The radial growth was minimum in T. viride (7.50 mm) following by T. harzianum (10.20mm) as compared to control (19.30 mm) which were statistically different from each other at 7 days of incubation \r\n(b) Trichoderma viride showed (75.71 %) per cent inhibition as compared to T. harzianum (54.05 %) after 7 days of incubation which significantly differed to each other Similar results were also obtained after 4 days of incubation with respect to radial growth and per cent inhibition.\r\n','-','Rahul Singh Raghuvanshi, Subhash Chandra, Abhishek Singh, Vivek Singh, Sakshi Pandey and Vishwa Vijay Raghuvanshi (2022). Management of Cercospora Leaf Spot in Mungbean by use of Botanicals, Fungicides and Bio-agents. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 14(4): 276-287.'),(5600,'146','Impact and Economic on Front Line Demonstration (FLD) of Good Horticultural Practices in Anthurium','Santosh Kumar, Jotish Nongthombam, K.P. Chaudhary, Nongmaithem Leindah Devi, Rohit Shukla and Nitin Kumar Pandey','49 Impact and Economic on Front Line Demonstration _FLD_ of Good Horticultural Practices in Anthurium Santosh Kumar.pdf','',1,'The present study was carried out by Krishi Vigyan Kendra (KVK) in Aizawl district Mizoram to evaluate the improved technology with scientifically sound on production technology and profitability of anthurium. The established and flowering times of the conventional technique of cultivation are too long, and the quality of the end product is also subpar. FLDs of improved production technology on anthurium were conducted in order to increase the number of spathes per plant with greater sizes and economic returns. A total of 40 farmers have been selected to FLDs on anthurium in selected villages. Data on the average yield of demonstration plots and control plots were collected after harvest to assess the impact of FLDs intervention on anthurium crop yield. The extension gap, the technological gap and the technological index were calculated as follows: 1305 numbers of spathes (flower), 2575 numbers in an area of 100 m2 and 42.92 per cent, respectively. The demonstrated field yielded a higher average gross yield Rs. 24150 and average net yields Rs. 19150 whereas the practices of the farmers had an average net yield Rs. 11040 in 100 m2 area. An average cost-benefit ratio of 3.8 recorded for demonstration compared to the cost-benefit ratio of 2.9 under local controls. The results demonstrated that the yield and economics of anthurium can be improved through adoption of the recommended technology.','Anthurium, yield, frontline demonstration, INM, net return, technology gap, extension gap','From the above finding it can be conducted that front line demonstration have shown the constant observation and management such as sterilized bed media and planting materials, fertigation, pruning the leaves, removing the suckers and adding coconut husk will boost the productivity of anthurium yield. ','-','Santosh Kumar, Jotish Nongthombam, K.P. Chaudhary, Nongmaithem Leindah Devi, Rohit Shukla and Nitin Kumar Pandey (2022). Impact and Economic on Front Line Demonstration (FLD) of Good Horticultural Practices in Anthurium. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 14(4): 288-291.'),(5601,'146','Field Evaluation of Fungicides against Alternaria and Corynespora Leaf Spot Pathogens on Cotton','Duddu Mahesh, S.L. Bhattiprolu, V. Prasanna Kumari and Ch. Chiranjeevi','50 Field Evaluation of Fungicides against Alternaria and Corynespora Leaf Spot Pathogens on Cotton S.L. Bhattiprolu.pdf','',1,'In India, cotton crop is affected by foliar diseases estimated to cause yield losses ranging from 20 to 30 per cent. Among them Alternaria and Corynespora are the major leaf spot diseases. In view of the importance a field experiment was conducted to evaluate common fungicides for both leaf spots during kharif 2020-21. The experiment was laid out in randomized block design (RBD) with seven treatments viz., myclobutanil @ 0.1%, propiconazole 0.1%, hexaconazole @ 0.2%, metiram + pyraclostrobin @ 0.3%, copper oxychloride @ 0.3% and fluxapyroxad + pyraclostrobin @ 0.06%along with control and three replications. Severity of leaf spots was recorded by adopting 0-4scale at seven days interval before and after spraying and per cent disease index (PDI) was calculated. Propiconazole @ 0.1% was found effective against Corynespora leaf spot with lowest per cent disease index of 4.67 and 87.61 per cent decrease in disease whereas hexaconazole @ 0.2% reduced Alternaria leaf spot (6.08 per cent disease index) to an extent of 70.08 per cent. The highest cotton seed yield (2493kg ha-1), benefit cost ratio (1.68) and maximum incremental benefit cost ratio (15.25) were obtained with propiconazole @ 0.1% with 37.50 per cent increase in yield over unsprayed control. Next best was hexaconazole @ 0.2% with 2347 kg ha-1 seed cotton yield, 1.55 benefit cost ratio and 8.31 incremental benefit cost ratio.','Alternaria, Corynespora, Cotton, fungicides, management','On the basis of these results it is concluded that three sprays of hexaconazole @ 0.2% and propiconazole @ 0.1% at 15 day interval gave highest disease control of 70.08 per cent and 69.67 per cent, respectively, against Alternaria leaf spot. In case of Corynespora leaf spot disease, three sprays of propiconazole @ 0.1% at 15 days interval resulted in the highest disease reduction of 87.61 per cent Propiconazole @ 0.1% recorded the highest seed cotton yield of 2493 kg ha-1 with B:C ratio of 1.68 and maximum ICBR (15.25) followed by hexaconazole @ 0.2% with seed cotton yield of 2347 kg ha-1, 1.55 BCR and 8.31 IBCR.','-','Duddu Mahesh, S.L. Bhattiprolu, V. Prasanna Kumari and Ch. Chiranjeevi (2022). Field Evaluation of Fungicides against Alternaria and Corynespora Leaf Spot Pathogens on Cotton. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 14(4): 292-297.'),(5602,'146','Effect of Blending Apple Juice on the Sensorial characteristics of Whey Beverage during Storage','Ameeta Salaria, Gaurav Chaudhary and Monika Hans','51 Effect of Blending Apple Juice on the Sensorial characteristics of Whey Beverage during Storage Ameeta Salaria.pdf','',1,'The goal of the current investigation is to utilize acid whey obtained after channa/paneer manufacturing to turn into products that have the potential to provide extra value to the users. The viability of mixing apple juice in whey at different ratios (apple juice 0-50%) and its effect on organoleptic characteristics were explored during refrigerated storage. The parameters measured were color, appearance, flavour, texture (consistency), and overall acceptability. There is a significant impact (p<0.05) of the incorporation of apple juice on the sensorial quality of apple-whey beverages. The result revealed that the sensory panelist highly preferred the apple juice: whey ratio (50:50). The product sensory scores were satisfactory until 45 days, beyond that the product quality deteriorated significantly (p<0.05). ','Apple, whey, colour and appearance, flavour, consistency, Overall acceptability','In the present study the addition of apple juice in various concentrations significantly impacted the overall acceptability of developed beverages. Our findings suggest that apple juice up to 50% level was effective in the formulation of whey beverage in terms of sensory scores compared to the lesser concentrations. The beverage can be kept well for about one month under refrigeration thereafter there is a decline in sensory scores. Further research can be done on the bending of other fruits and the addition of stabilizers to improve the consistency of such beverages.','-','Ameeta Salaria, Gaurav Chaudhary and Monika Hans (2022). Effect of Blending Apple Juice on the Sensorial characteristics of Whey Beverage during Storage. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 14(4): 298-301'),(5603,'146','Organic Farming in Northeast Region of India: Boon for Environmental Sustainability','Popiha Bordoloi & A. Arunachalam','52 Organic Farming in Northeast Region of India Boon for Environmental Sustainability P Bordoloi.pdf','',1,'The changes observed in the environment are occurring slowly over time. Organic farming has the nature friendly approach and it acts as a natural tool for the environmental protection and sustainable development while considering the agricultural production system. Environmental health is the prime importance for organic farming. In the crop production technique of organic farming mineral fertilizers and other chemical pesticides are not encourage, so the nutrient and energy cycling is increased and the retentive abilities of the soil for nutrients and water are also enhanced. Such management techniques plays an important role in boosts the stable biodiversity, promotes water conservation and water management, reduce climate change and helps in soil erosion control. The paper presents a framework for selection of indicators based on the principles of organic agriculture which may be used to monitor and improve the performance of organic agriculture with respect to environmental sustainability. On the basis of review of scientific literature the impact of organic agriculture on environmental sustainability is studied in North Eastern region of India.','Sustainable Agriculture, Organic Farming, Environmental Sustainability, NE India','Organic farming helps for environmental sustainability by promoting a less polluting agricultural system. It offers a viable system of crop production which assures the sustainability of environment as in organic agriculture biodiversity in soil is increases, reduces the runoff loss as well as nutrient loss, enhances the soil productivity and encourages the predation for pest control. Organic farming system is a highly complex and integrated biological system to maintain good soil heath and other component of agriculture production system and environment. The negative impacts on environment from agriculture are creating the issues of unsustainability of the environment. Organic agriculture ensures the reduction of natural resources degradation, soil enrichment and conditioning, soil stabilization, eco friendly waste decomposition, carbon sequestration, balancing the pest and predation and encourages the pollinators. It has both direct and indirect effect to soil properties as it affects more than one component of the system simultaneously. Organic agriculture can balance the resource use efficiency and environmental performance which are important for resource sufficiency perspective of sustainability. But it may not be enough to solve the challenges of global food demand and agriculture. The productivity of organic farming is somewhat less compared to conventional farming. So, there is a need to identify suitable crops and other products on regional basis for organic production that has more demands nationally and internationally for income generations. For getting the full benefit from Organic agriculture all the aspects like economical, social and institutional aspects need to be considered. Further research are needed for commercialization of Organic farming in North Eastern Region of India by implementation of modern and improved technology for income generation and for environmental sustainability.','-','Popiha Bordoloi & A. Arunachalam (2022). Organic Farming in Northeast Region of India: Boon for Environmental Sustainability. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 14(4): 302-306.'),(5604,'146','Impact of Abiotic Factors on Population Dynamics of Leaf Rollers on Apple Nursery in Temperate North Kashmir','Shahida Altaf, Ishtiyaq Ahad, Amit Kumar, Parveena Bano, Rehana Habib and M.A. Parry','53 Impact of Abiotic Factors on Population Dynamics of Leaf Rollers on Apple SHAHIDA ALTAF.pdf','',1,'Apple, Malus domestica known as queen of fruits is the major contributor of economy to Jammu and Kashmir. Various factors (viz., diseases, insect pests, disorders, weeds etc) are responsible for limiting the production: Among these insect pests are posing major threat to the apple industry. Leaf rollers are posing a threat to the newly developed high density orchard ecosystem being a low fighter these pests reaches easily the dwarf plantation compared to that of traditional orchard systems. This pest has been infesting apical shoots, hence curtailing the apical dominance and resulting in busy side shoots in nursery plants. To ascertain/frame the appropriate management strategy an attempt was made to monitor the insect population of this pest in two consecutive years. Two species of leaf roller (Choristoneura roseceana and Rhopobota navena) were observed during the investigations carried out in 2016 and 2017 years. Population dynamics studies revealed that leaf roller adults appeared from 14th standard week till 43rd standard week with its peak in 27th standard week during 2016. However, during the year 2017 the leaf roller adults also appeared from 14th standard week with its peak in the 28th standard week and continued up to 39th standard week. Their correlation studies made it clear that maximum temperature, minimum temperature had significant and positive impact on the population build-up, however, larvae of leaf roller during 2016 showed significant and negative correlation with relative humidity, while sunshine showed positive and significant correlation. Moreover, other weather parameters like sunshine, rainfall, relative humidity morning and evening both had non-significant correlation with leaf roller population. The data obtained from the experimental finding shall help in devising the best management integrated pest management strategy especially emphasis might be given to organic approaches.','Leaf roller, apple nursery and abiotic parameters','It was evident from the investigations that there is close relation between the insect population buildup and weather parameters as complete activity of both leaf rollers was arrested with onset of cold and in November month and again appeared in the month of April. There were fluctuations in the pest populations observed throughout the growing season and give exact time and stage of the pest when to target. Apple nurseries registered a huge population of leaf folders during both years and it is worth to mention that this pest needs keen attention in the nursery and high density planting system. ','-','Shahida Altaf, Ishtiyaq Ahad, Amit Kumar, Parveena Bano, Rehana Habib and M.A. Parry (2022). Impact of Abiotic Factors on Population Dynamics of Leaf Rollers on Apple Nursery in Temperate North Kashmir. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 14(4): 307-315.'),(5605,'146','Effect of Nutrients and Rice Residue Management on Performance of Growth and Yield of Wheat','Ashish Nath, R.B. Yadav, Vivek, Adesh Singh, B.P. Dhyani, U.P. Shahi and Roop Kishor Pachauri','54 Effect of Nutrients and Rice Residue Management on Performance of Growth and Yield of Wheat Ashish Nath.pdf','',1,'This study was conducted during rabi season of 2020-21 and 2021-22 at CRC Farm SVPUAT, Meerut, to evaluate the effect of rice residue management and nutrient management on wheat The significantly maximum dry matter accumulation (gm-2) of wheat were recorded with bio-decomposer treated residue as compare over to residue removal at 60, 90 DAS and at harvest respectively. The mean maximum dry matter accumulation (gm-2) of wheat was recorded with 125% RDF + Growth Regulator over as compare to 75% RDF +10t FYM at 30, 60, 90 DAS and at harvest respectively. The crop growth rate (g m-2) of wheat was recorded with bio-decomposer treated residue over as compare to residue removal at 30-60, 60-90 DAS and 90 DAS to at harvest respectively. The mean maximum crop growth rate (g-m-2 day-1) of wheat were recorded with 125% RDF + Growth Regulator over as compare to 75% RDF + 10t FYM at 30-60, 60-90 DAS and 90 DAS to at harvest respectively. The significantly maximum grain yield 50.03 q ha-1 registered with bio-decomposer treated residue. The application of 125% RDF + Growth Regulator grain yield 52.84 q ha-1 over water spray 75% RDF +10t FYM. ','Rice residue management, nutrient management, growth, wheat yield','The findings of this study showed that cultivating wheat with residue bio-decomposer treated residue and 125% RDF + growth regulator resulted in a significant increase in growth and yield. As a result, it is concluded that residue management, including the use of a residue bio-decomposer, and nutrient management of 125% RDF + growth regulator, can be recommended as a long-term strategy for increasing wheat productivity and profitability.','-','Ashish Nath, R.B. Yadav, Vivek, Adesh Singh, B.P. Dhyani, U.P. Shahi and Roop Kishor Pachauri (2022). Effect of Nutrients and Rice Residue Management on Performance of Growth and Yield of Wheat. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 14(4): 316-319.'),(5606,'146','Effect of GA3, NAA and Zinc Sulphateon Fruit Retention, Drop,Yield and quality of Mango (Mangifera indica L.) cv. Dashehari','Afreen Usman Khan, V.K. Tripathi, R.K.S. Gautam and A.K. Dwivedi','55 Effect of GA3, NAA and Zinc Sulphateon Fruit Retention, Drop,Yield and quality of Mango _Mangifera indica L._ cv. Dashehari V.K. Tripathi.pdf','',1,'An experiment was carriedout in Horticulture Garden, Department of Fruit Science, C. S. Azad University of Agriculture and Technology, Kanpur (U.P.), India, during the year 2022 to study the effect of GA3, NAA and zinc sulphateon fruit retention, drop, yield and quality of mango (Mangifera indica L.) cv. Dashehari and found that the increased level of ZnSO4 had influenced in terms of minimum fruit drop with increased fruit retention and fruit yield as compared to other treatments including control. For this ten treatments viz.; three levels of each GA3 (20, 40 and 60 ppm), NAA (25, 50 and 75 ppm) and ZnSO4 (0.6, 0.8 and 1.0%) along with control, replicated thrice in RBD were used for the experimental work. The recommended dose of fertilizers were applied in all treatments including control. The plant growth regulators and micro-nutrient were sprayed on the tree at the pea stage of fruit on 21/03/2022 with a sprayer having a very fine nozzle. The foliar application of micronutrients along with plant bio-regulators plays an important role in manipulating many physiological phenomena, improving yield, quality and enhancing the productivity of plants by fulfilling the nutritional needs of fruit crops. From the experiment, it is reported that the treatment of ZnSO4 @1.0 % significantly reduced fruit drop (90.15%) with increased number of fruits per panicle (8.42), highest fruit retention (9.85%), polar and equatorial diameter of fruit(12.68 cm and 8.15 cm), fruit volume (260.17 cc), fruit weight (256.51 g) and fruit yield per tree (54.58 kg), stone percent (17.51 %), pulp content (71.69 %) with minimum peel content (18.23%). The same treatment also produced a favourable effect on fruit quality in terms of increased TSS (19.06°Brix), total sugars (16.06 %), ascorbic acid (38.58 mg/100g pulp) and reduced titratable acidity (0.50%). The specific gravity of fruit (1.01 g/cc) was recorded maximum in fruits which was produced from the plants treated with ZnSO4 at 0.8 %.','Mango, Fruit retention, Drop, Yield, Quality, NAA(naphthalene acetic acid),GA3 (gibberellic acid), ZnSO4 (Zinc Sulphate)','The above-mentioned results clearly show that the pre-harvest spray of ZnSO4 @ 1.0 % (T10) had a positive effect on fruit set, fruit drop and fruit retention as well as a higher number of fruit sets per panicle. On the other hand, the used materials increased the yield of Dashehari mango with fruit weight and yield per tree followed by treatment including all sprayed materials. As fruit quality parameters (physical and chemical properties) are concerned, it is clear that spraying of ZnSO4 @ 1.0 % gave a high improve in quality parameters as compared with the control. ','-','Afreen Usman Khan, V.K. Tripathi, R.K.S. Gautam, and A.K. Dwivedi (2022). Effect of GA3, NAA and Zinc Sulphateon Fruit Retention, Drop,Yield and quality of Mango (Mangifera indica L.) cv. Dashehari. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 14(4): 320-325.'),(5607,'146','Biodiversity of insect pest complex of Muskdana, Abelmoschus moschatus (L.) in Northern tracts of West Bengal','Swapna Rani K., Suprakash Pal, Shivakumara K.T., Dosa Rajeshwari and Dhanapati Gokul Krishna','56 Biodiversity of insect pest complex of Muskdana, Abelmoschus moschatus _L._ in Northern tracts of West Bengal Swapna Rani K.pdf','',1,'Muskdana, Abelmoschus moschatus (L.) is a medicinal cum minor vegetable crop in India. The knowledge of insect pests infesting the crop is especially important for its sustainable management. But the information on the pest complex of this crop is very scanty, particularly from the Northern part of West Bengal. Therefore, field experiments were explored to document the biodiversity of insect pest complexes of muskdana in Pundibari, West Bengal for two seasons in the year 2021 and 2022 respectively to document the pest situations throughout the crop growth period. The present study reports nearly twelve species of insect pests that occurred on muskdana. The leaf beetle Monolepta sp. occurred during the seedling stage to the early vegetative stage. The foliage feeders like leaf folder, Helcystogramma hibisci, and leaf roller, Sylepta derogata caused noticeable damage to the foliage by occurring in large populations from the early vegetative to maturity stage of the crop, while cotton semi looper, Anomis flava was observed sporadically with a moderate population. The activity of leaf blotch miner, Trachys sp. was observed from the mid- vegetative stage to the maturity stage. Red cotton bug, Dysdercus cingulatus, and mealy bug, Phenococcus solenopsis were recorded as minor pests occurring from flowering to pod maturity stage. Aphid Aphis gossypii, hopper Amrasca biguttula, and one mite species Tetranychus urticae were observed as minor pests but occurred persistently throughout the cropping period. Besides, pests like cutworms, Spodoptera litura, and transverse moth, Xanthodes transversa were found for a short period during the rainy season in a low population causing negligible damage to the crop. The present comprehensive pest information would help in formulating the management practices effectively. ','Muskdana, Abelmoschus moschatus, pest complex, Kharif seasons, percent incidence','The present study documented twelve pest species including insects and mites associated with A. moschatus in the northern tracts of West Bengal. The bio-ecology, nature of the damage and sequence of occurrence on crop has been represented in detail which provides a wholesome knowledge on various pests associated with muskdana under Northern tracts of West Bengal.','-','Swapna Rani K., Suprakash Pal, Shivakumara K.T., Dosa Rajeshwari and Dhanapati Gokul Krishna (2022). Biodiversity of insect pest complex of Muskdana, Abelmoschus moschatus (L.) in Northern tracts of West Bengal. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 14(4): 326-330.'),(5608,'146','Plant Growth Regulator Mediated Improved Leaf Area Development and Dry Matter Production under Late Sown High Temperature Stress condition in Chickpea','Supriya Debnath, R. Shiv Ramakrishnan, Rohit Kumar Kumawat, Krishnapriya Vengavasi, Ashish Kumar, Radheshyam Sharma, Anubha Upadhyay, Anita Babbar and R.K. Samaiya','57 Plant Growth Regulator Mediated Improved Leaf Area Development and Dry Matter Production under Late Sown High Temperature Stress condition in Chickpea R. Shiv Ramakrishnan.pdf','',1,'Agriculture is a climate-driven process highly affected by an increase in the global mean surface temperature due to global warming. Temperature beyond the optimum level leads to heat stress and causes irreversible damage to the growth and development of chickpea. Plant growth regulator application is a viable option to induce heat tolerance and achieve a stable yield. Therefore, an experiment was conducted to identify effective plant growth regulators for improving dry matter production and leaf area development in chickpea under high-temperature stress conditions. The investigation comprises two chickpea genotypes viz., JG14 (heat tolerant cultivar) and JG 36 with two different dates of sowing viz., normal sown and late sown over two years for exposing the crop to high temperature and nine sub-sub treatments viz., control (no spray), water spray, foliar spray of plant growth regulators viz., thiourea (100ppm, 200 ppm, 400 ppm and 600 ppm) and salicylic acid (200 ppm, 400 ppm and 600 ppm) at anthesis stage. Due to high-delayed sown temperature stress conditions, reduction in leaf area, dry matter production of primary branches, secondary branches, pods, and total dry matter production was recorded. Heat tolerant genotype JG14 exhibited enhanced dry matter production and leaf area development at all stages over genotype JG36. Foliar application of salicylic acid @200 ppm induces heat stress tolerance in chickpea by augmenting leaf area development, dry matter production of leaf, primary & secondary branches, pods, and total dry matter production as compared to other treatments under delayed sown conditions. Under normal sown condition, foliar application of thiourea @ 600 ppm effectively enhanced leaf area, dry matter of leaf, primary and secondary branches. Salicylic acid @ 400 ppm enhanced pod dry matter and total dry matter production under normal sown condition.','Dry matter production, leaf area, plant growth regulators, late sowing, heat stress, heat tolerance, salicylic acid, thiourea','Delayed sown high-temperature stress causes a devastating effect on dry matter production of leaf, primary branches, secondary branches, and leaf area development. Heat tolerant genotypes JG 14 exhibited maximum increase in dry matter of leaf, primary and secondary branches. In contrast, JG 36 exhibited enhanced pod dry matter and total dry matter. JG 14 reveals a maximum increase in leaf area at all stages of growth over normal and late-sown conditions. Under the normal sown condition, over the varieties and averaging over different stages of growth, thiourea @ 600 ppm was found to be effective in enhancing leaf area (630.00 cm2) (Fig. 5), leaf dry weight (1.865g), and primary branches dry weight (0.658 g) (Fig. 4). Salicylic acid @ 200 ppm expressed maximum dry matter production of secondary branches (2.39g). In comparison, salicylic acid @ 400 ppm was found to be effective in enhancing pod dry matter (10.42g) and total dry matter (14.85g) (Fig. 4). Under delayed sown high-temperature stress condition, salicylic acid @ 200 ppm proves its stress mitigating potential by exhibiting superiority in enhancing leaf area (514.07 cm2) (Fig. 5), dry weight of leaf (1.644 gm), dry weight of primary branches (0.566 g) and secondary branches (2.01 g), dry matter of pods (10.98 g) and total dry matter production (16.45 g) (Fig. 3).','-','Supriya Debnath, R. Shiv Ramakrishnan, Rohit Kumar Kumawat, Krishnapriya Vengavasi, Ashish Kumar, Radhesham Sharma, Anubha Upadhyay, Anita Babbar and R.K. Samaiya (2022). Plant Growth Regulators Mediated Improved Leaf Area Development and Dry Matter Production under Late Sown High Temperature Stress condition in Chickpea. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 14(4): 331-342.'),(5609,'146','Enhancement of Rice Pollen viability under Heat Stress by Osmoprotectant Foliar Spray','GBN Jyothi, S Mohanty, S. Das, D. Lenka, T.R. Mohanty, J.K. Beura and A. Moharana','58 Enhancement of Rice Pollen viability under Heat Stress by Osmoprotectant Foliar Spray GBN Jyothi.pdf','',1,'Loss of pollen viability by heat stress is a major problem which directly affect the seed set and yield of the crop. To mitigate the deleterious effects of heats stress on viability of rice pollen a study conducted for the enhancement of pollen viability by exogenous osmoprotectants spray in the cropping year 2018-19 and 2019-20 on three rice varieties Hiranmayee, Naveen and Mandakini by sowing in three different dates (S1, S2 and S3). Heat stress gradually reduced pollen viability with rise of heat stress and delay of sowing, higher pollen viability recorded during 1st date of sowing followed by 2nd and 3rd date of sowing. As a result of the osmoprotectant foliar spray, the third date of sowing observed percent higher pollen viability over untreated control, compared to 1st and 2nd dates of sowing. Foliar spray of osmoprotectants significantly improved pollen viability especially with treatments like Salicylic acid 400 ppm (68.78%)followed by Ascorbic acid (10 ppm) + Citric acid (1.5%) (67.93%) and Salicylic acid 800 ppm (67.09%). Significant reduction of pollen viability under heat stress was noted in untreated Control (59.39%).','Pollen viability, Heat stress, Osmoprotectants, Foliar spray','Pollen grains are highly sensitive to heats stress because of desiccation, heat stress gradually reduce pollen viability which effect the pollination and fertilization of plant. Osmoprotectant foliar spray treatments maintained the viability of pollen grain even under heat stress condition among the treatments significant higher pollen viability recorded from the treatments Salicylic acid 400 ppm followed by Ascorbic acid (10 ppm) + Citric acid (1.5%) and Salicylic acid 800 ppm, whereas the lowest pollen viability of all treatments recorded from untreated Control.','-','GBN Jyothi, S Mohanty, S. Das, D. Lenka, T.R. Mohanty, J.K. Beura and A. Moharana (2022). Enhancement of Rice Pollen viability under Heat Stress by Osmoprotectant Foliar Spray. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 14(4): 343-347.'),(5610,'146','Studies of Immune Responses in Silkworm Bombyx mori L.: A Review','Suraksha Chanotra, Muzafar Ahmad Bhat, Jyoty Angotra, Gurvinder Raj Verma and Abdul Aziz','59 Studies of Immune Responses in Silkworm Bombyx mori L. A Review Suraksha Chanotra.pdf','',1,'Bombyx mori L. is one of the most important sericigenous insect commercially reared for silk production. Similar to other insects, silkworm is also susceptible to a wide range of pathogens. The resistance or susceptibility to pathogens in silkworm is dependent on the genetic constitution of the host which represents the immunity of an organism towards pathogens. The innate immune responses of silkworm constitute both cellular and humoral reactions including synthesis and release of antimicrobial peptides for inhibition and elimination of foreign agents. All the immune reactions in silkworms functions by means of either Toll and Immunodeficiency signaling pathway pathways or participation of Janus Kinase / Signal Transducer and Activator of Transcription signaling pathway which works subsequently for particular pathogen type. This short review highlights studies that have contributed to our understanding of silkworm immune response against pathogens.','Humoral, cellular, antimicrobial, peptides, pathogens, Signal, Transducer','Bombyx mori L. is an important economic insect used commercially for silk production and more recently used in molecular studies as a well recognized model organism. However, different categories of pathogens cause serious economic loss to sericulture industry by infecting silkworm larvae and depleting the chances of successful crop every year. Although silkworm Bombyx mori L. lacks a well developed acquired immune system but possesses a sophisticated innate immune system offering defense to the host against disease causing organisms. The innate immune responses of silkworm constitute both cellular and humoral reactions including the synthesis and release of antimicrobial peptides, phenoloxidase, phagocytosis, nodule formation, encapsulation and melanization. Innate immune responses are activated via means of IMD and Toll pathways which activate the secretion of AMPs and enable the host to control the gene expression in response to the invasion of foreign pathogens. Therefore, considering the economic and biomedical significance of silkworm an attempt has been carried out in this review to understand the complexity of silkworm immune system with a future prospective to breed disease resistant silkworm strains with high levels of immune responses. This could serve as an informative piece of literature for silkworm breeders with an objective to produce improved silkworm strains for strengthening sericulture industry in a big way. ','-','Suraksha Chanotra, Muzafar Ahmad Bhat, Jyoty Angotra, Gurvinder Raj Verma and Abdul Aziz (2022). Studies of Immune Responses in Silkworm Bombyx mori L.: A Review. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 14(4): 348-352.'),(5611,'146','Influence of Nano Fertilizers on Growth and Yield Parameters of Potato (Solanum tuberosum L.)','Dheerendra Kumar, Robin Kumar, Pradip Kumar Saini, R.K. Pathak and Rajendra Kumar','60 Influence of Nano Fertilizers on Growth and Yield Parameters of Potato _Solanum tuberosum L._ Dheerendra Kumar.pdf','',1,'A field experiment was conducted at the main experiment station vegetable farm of Achyara Narendra Deva University of Agriculture and Technology, Kumarganj, Ayodhya (Uttar Pradesh) during the Rabi season, 2021-22. The experiment was laid out in randomized block design (RBD) with eleven treatments replicated three times. The treatment comprises T1 (100% N), T2 (75% N + 2 Spray of nano N), T3 (50% N + 2 Spray of nano N), T4 (0% N + 2 Spray of nano N), T5 (100% N and Zn (25 kg ZnSO4/ha)), T6 (75% N + 2 Spray of nano N + Nano zinc spray), T7 (50% N + 2 Spray of nano N + Nano zinc spray), T8 (0% N + 2 Spray of nano N + Nano zinc spray), T9 (75% N + 2 Spray of Urea (2%)), T10 (75% N + 2 Spray of Urea (2%) + zinc sulphate* (2g/l) spray), T11 (Control). The variety ‛Kufri Khyati’ was used for the study. The study indicated significant differences among different treatments concerning growth and yield. The Plant emergence was not influenced by various sources of nutrients NPK and nano fertilizers as well as nitrogen and zinc. Among different treatments, a significant effect was observed on plant height at 30 and 60 DAS. Maximum plant height at 30 DAS (21.40 cm) and 60 DAS (61.00 cm) were observed under T6 treatment, where 75% N + 2 Spray of nano N + Nano zinc spray was applied. Among the different treatments, a significant effect was also observed on tuber yield ha-1 as compared to the control plot. Maximum tuber yield (322.27 q ha-1) was observed in T6 treatment (where 75% N + 2 Spray of nano N + Nano zinc spray) while minimum tuber yield was recorded with T4 treatment 0% N + 2 Spray of nano N was applied. Along with the different treatments was also observed significant effect on haulm yield ha-1 was as compared to control plots. Maximum haulm yield (177.25 q ha-1) was observed in T6 treatment (where 75% N + 2 Spray of nano N + Nano zinc spray) while minimum haulm yield was recorded in T4 treatment where 0% N + 2 Spray of nano N was applied.','Nano fertilizers, potato, growth, and yield','This study\'s conclusion was the integration of 75% nitrogen through inorganic urea, and 2 % nano urea was found superior in the growth and yield of potatoes. A combination of inorganic and nano nitrogen in the proportion of 75% through urea + 2% nano urea, nano zinc, and NPK uptake by potato tuber and haulm was a better response of nutrients. Based on the result, it may be concluded that the influence of nano fertilizers and management (75% N through urea, 2 Sprays of nano N, and Nano zinc spray) was found to better treatment on growth and yield.','-','Dheerendra Kumar, Robin Kumar, Pradip Kumar Saini, R.K. Pathak and Rajendra Kumar (2022). Influence of Nano Fertilizers on Growth and Yield Parameters of Potato (Solanum tuberosum L.). Biological Forum – An International Journal, 14(4): 353-356.'),(5612,'146','Influence of integrated Nutrient Management in Summer Rice (Oryza sativa L.) under Terai Zone of West Bengal','Senjit Singh Ashem and Ashis Kumar Singha Roy','61 Influence of integrated Nutrient Management in Summer Rice _Oryza sativa L._ under Terai Zone of West Bengal Senjit Singh Ashem.pdf','',1,'Use of inorganic fertilizers have increased the production of rice but causes various detrimental effects on physical and chemical properties of soils and ecological pollutions. Therefore, conjunctive use of organic and inorganic sources of nutrients helps in sustaining productivity and biological health of soil and achieves a part of chemical fertilizers of crop. A field experiment was carried out at Uttar Banga Krishi Viswavidyalaya, Cooch Behar, West Bengal during two consecutive summer season of 2018and 2019 to evaluate the effect of judicious use of inorganic fertilizers, organic manures and zinc on summer rice (cv. Gotra Bidhan-1). Out of different nutrient management practices, treatment receiving 75% RDN through fertilizer +25% RDN through vermicompost + 25 kg ZnSO4ha-1 registered significantly the highest yield components and grain yield (5.10 t ha-1). The total uptake of N, P, K and Zn nutrients by crop was remarkably increased with the treatment receiving 75% RDN through fertilizer + 25% RDN through vermicompost + 25 kg ZnSO4 ha-1.Integrated nutrient management enhanced the organic carbon and available N, P, K and Zn contents in the soil. Significant variation in N, P, K and Zn content of soil under various treatments could be observed after harvest of summer rice. The maximum soil available N, P, K and Zn were noticed with the 50% RDN through fertilizer + 50% RDN through vermicompost + 25 kg ZnSO4 ha-1. The highest net return (Rs. 40560 ha-1) and benefit: cost (1.80) ratio was achieved under the treatment, where 75% RDN was applied through fertilizer +25% RDN through vermicompost + 25 kg ZnSO4 ha-1.','Summer rice, integrated nutrient management, yield, economics','From the above study, it can be concluded that significantly higher grain yield and nutrient uptake could be obtained with the application of 75% RDN through fertilizer + 25% RDN through vermicompost along with 25 kg ZnSO4 ha-1 which was closely followed by 75% RDN through fertilizer + 25% RDN through FYM along with 25 kg ZnSO4 ha-1. Application of 75% RDN through fertilizer + 25% RDN through vermicompost along with 25 kg ZnSO4 ha-1 in summer rice also showed higher net return and B:C ratio interai region of West Bengal.','-','Senjit Singh Ashem and Ashis Kumar Singha Roy (2022). Influence of integrated Nutrient Management in Summer Rice (Oryza sativa L.) under Terai Zone of West Bengal. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 14(4): 357-362.'),(5613,'146','Cultured Meat – A review','M. Kirthy Reddy, Rita Narayanan, V. Appa Rao, C. Valli and G. Sujatha','62 Cultured Meat – A review M. Kirthy Reddy.pdf','',1,'To meet the growing human population\'s increasing demand for meat consumption, cultured meat can serve as a good alternative for consumers. On a global scale slaughtering of animals is becoming unviable in terms of their welfare, sustainability, and effects on human health. Culturing meat via cellular agriculture or tissue engineering is a promising method for future meat production. Advanced techniques in culturing meat made lab-grown meat as par with conventional meat in terms of organoleptic properties. The advantages of culturing meat are lowering greenhouse gas emissions, being slaughter-free, and antibiotic-free, and reducing carbon footprints. But several challenges still exist such as production at a large scale, regulatory aspects, acceptance by consumers, ethical issues, and optimization of cell culture methodology. This review aims at presenting an overview of the advantages, challenges, and culturing of meat at the lab level.','Cultured meat, cell lines, bioreactor, mimicking','Cultured meat offers enormous benefits in terms of human, animal, and environmental health. Production of meat by culturing obtained from desired cell samples and grown in a controlled environment is perceived as ethical compared to the conventional meat system, which involves the killing of animals and the usage of resources. So, producing meat in the lab is the practical solution to meet the growing meat demand of the people. Cultured meat would minimize reliance on land and water resources making it a sustainable source of food. ','-','M. Kirthy Reddy, Rita Narayanan, V. Appa Rao, C. Valli and G. Sujatha (2022). Cultured Meat – A review. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 14(4): 363-367.'),(5614,'146','Population Dynamics of Citrus Butterfly, Papilio sp. (Papilionidae: Lepidoptera) on Acid Lime','Dileep Kumar N.T., Biradar A.P., Mallapur C.P., Shripad Kulkarni and Venugopal C.K.','63 Population Dynamics of Citrus Butterfly, Papilio sp. _Papilionidae Lepidoptera_ on Acid Lime Dileep Kumar N.T.pdf','',1,'Citrus butterflies, Papilio demoleus and Papilio polytes are the two economically important butterfly species attacking on citrus crops. The larvae of this pest act as defoliators and found to cause significant loss to citrus production. Acid lime, Citrus aurantiifolia Swingle is one of the important citrus crops grown extensively in northern Karnataka. The production of acid lime is under threat due to attack of citrus butterfly under both nursery and field conditions. For the management of these insect pests, it is important to know how pest is behaving under changing weather conditions. A fixed plot survey was carried out at fortnightly interval to study population dynamics of citrus butterfly from November 2020 to June 2022. The observation on incidence of citrus butterfly was recorded on ten randomly selected plants by counting number of larva per plant. The results of the study indicated that, the citrus butterfly incidence was noticed throughout study period with raising and falling trends in population. During the study period, the larval population was ranged from 1.20 to 10.10 larvae per plant. The peak activity was recorded during December and August months. Minimum incidence of citrus butterfly was noticed during first and second fortnight of May month. The data on correlation of larval population with abiotic environmental factors indicated significantly negative correlation with maximum temperature (r=-0.843), minimum temperature (r=-0.577) and rainfall (r=-0.353). A significant positive correlation was observed with morning relative humidity (r=0.567) and evening relative humidity (r=0.481). Whereas non-significant negative correlation was recorded with wind speed (r=-0.272NS) and sunshine hours (r=-0.220NS). The multiple linear regression analysis indicated that different weather parameters influenced the population dynamics of citrus butterfly to an extent of 77.50 per cent. The information of nil incidence, low incidence and peak incidence will provide strong basis for initiation of suitable control measures against citrus butterfly. ','Citrus butterfly, P. demoleus, P. polytes, population dynamics, correlation','The outcome of present study clearly indicated that citrus butterfly activity was noticed throughout the year with two peak population during August and December months. The correlation data indicated that temperature and relative humidity are the two important factors that significantly affect the seasonal abundance of citrus butterfly on acid lime. This information can be very much useful in order to initiate control measures, and it helps to develop prediction model about outbreak of pests based on data on abiotic factors.','-','Dileep Kumar N.T., Biradar A.P., Mallapur C.P., Shripad Kulkarni and Venugopal C.K. (2022). Population Dynamics of Citrus Butterfly, Papilio sp. (Papilionidae: Lepidoptera) on Acid Lime. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 14(4): 368-372.'),(5615,'146','In Vitro Efficacy of Biocontrol agents and Fungicides against the Brown Leaf Spot (Bipolaris oryzae) of Rice','Sonali Abrol, S.K. Singh, V.B. Singh, A.K. Singh and Ranbir Singh','64 In Vitro Efficacy of Biocontrol Agents and Fungicides against the Brown Leaf Spot _Bipolaris oryzae_ of Rice Sonali Abrol.pdf','',1,'In tropical and sub-tropical countries rice production is considered as backbone of agricultural economy, including India, the world’s 2nd largest producer and consumer. In Indian sub-continent including Jammu and Kashmir region, rice is attacked by numerous plant pathogens. Among these, Bipolaris oryzae is responsible for causing brown leaf spot as one of the major and serious disease that causes significant quantitative and qualitative losses in rice. The present study was carried out to evaluate the biocontrol agents and different fungicides under in vitro conditions for their efficacy against brown leaf spot pathogen of rice (Bipolaris oryzae). The results showed that among the combo fungicides, highest growth inhibition was recorded in azoxystrobin + difenoconazole followed by propiconazole + difenoconazole and tebuconazole + trifloxystrobin at 250, 100, 50, 25 and 10ppm respectively. Among the single fungicides, propiconazole was most effective fungicide followed by azoxystrobin in inhibiting the mycelial growth of pathogen at 250, 100, 50, 25 and 10ppm, respectively. Further, among the fungal biocontrol agents maximum growth inhibition of pathogen was recorded in T. harzianum (Th-III) followed by T. harzianum (Th-II) and T. harzianum (Th-I). However, the inhibition efficiency was less when compared to fungicides. ','Biocontrol agents, Bipolaris oryzae, brown leaf spot, in vitro, T. harzianum','The present study was carried out to evaluate the effect of biocontrol agents and different fungicides against the mycelial growth inhibition of B. oryzae under in vitro conditions. All the biocontrol agents were effective in restricting the mycelial growth of pathogen compared to control. In vitro evaluation of different fungicide also revealed that all the fungicides inhibited mycelial growth of B. oryzae even at their lowest concentration. It was observed that with the increase in the concentration of fungicides, there was significant decrease in the respective mycelial growth and accordingly more inhibition was observed at higher concentrations. ','-','Sonali Abrol, S.K. Singh, V.B. Singh, A.K. Singh and Ranbir Singh (2022). In Vitro Efficacy of Biocontrol Agents and Fungicides against the Brown Leaf Spot (Bipolaris oryzae) of Rice. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 14(4): 373-377.'),(5616,'146','Eulophia graminea: The Orchid with Keiki on the Leaf','Tapan Kumar Giri, Sashikala Beura, P.N. Jagadev, S.K. Palai and G.R. Rout','65 Eulophia graminea The Orchid with Keiki on the Leaf Tapan Kumar Giri.pdf','',1,'Keikis are asexually produced clone of mother plant whose literary meaning is a baby in Hawaiian language. It’s a relatively easier method of asexual propagation with identical plants. Usually it is formed on the older shoots or flowering pseudo bulbs varying with species of Orchids. But no mention of formation of Keikis in terrestrial Orchids are found till date. The keik is were found by the authors on Eulophia graminea, a terrestrial Orchid species found in Odisha, that too on its leaf apex, which is a novel characteristics and yet to be reported by any. Eulophia graminea, though a threatened species in many places, but has been designated as Early Detection and Rapid Response (EDRR) species by the Florida Keys Invasive Species Exotics Task Force due to its invasive nature. However this species has got some medicinal importance and is being used against several chronic diseases in India since long. Hence this novel propagation method of this species may be a blessing or a matter of serious concern for the environmentalists.','Leaf Keikis, Eulophia graminea, invasive Orchid','The importance of the terrestrial Orchid species, Eulophia graminea is yet to be assessed to its full potential. Its ethno-botanical importance has elated many and needs further attention. Hence this unique propagation method noticed here by leaf keikis may be a blessing for the naturalists. However, the invasive nature of this species has raised concerns among the scientists and this novel propagation behavior of this species may add to the agony for the environmentalists to control the invasive species.','-','Tapan Kumar Giri, Sashikala Beura, P.N. Jagadev, S.K. Palai and G.R. Rout (2022). Eulophia graminea: The Orchid with Keiki on the Leaf. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 14(4): 378-381.'),(5617,'143','Comparative Study of Salt Effect on Hydroxylation Reaction of Organic Dyes','Soma Das, Amiyaa Mandal and P.K. Pradhan','3 Comparative Study of Salt Effect on Hydroxylation Reaction of Organic Dyes Dr. Prasun Kanti Pradhan.pdf','',1,'Crystal violet (CV) and Malachite Green (MG) both are synthetic triphenylmethane dyes and generally basic (cationic) in nature. These are widely used in clothing industry, leather industry and for dyeing many substances. MG & CV can also use as antibacterial, antifungal and anthelmintic agents. Direct contacts of dyes are very much injurious to animal kingdom. Hence, they have become pertinent to find and efficient way to remove it from environment. The kinetics of alkaline hydrolysis of Crystal Violet (CV) and Malachite Gree (MG) in presence of different salt was studied. Reductions were carried out by varying dye concentration, salt concentration and concentration of alkali. In the present study the reduction of dye was carried out in order to reduce the color content. This research work tends to explore salt effect on alkaline hydrolysis of these dyes with focus on kinetics of the reaction. This process can, therefore, be used as technical solutions for the treatment of dye by reducing its colour content for different approaches.','Crystal violet (CV), Malachite green (MG), Hydroxylation, Salt effect','The present research work shows that the reaction mechanism of hydrolysis of MG and similar to that of hydrolysis of CV in alkaline medium. It is observed that 0.001% MG solution (solution made in 1:4 ethanol: water) is completely decolourised at 20 days (shown in Fig. 11) but it was reported that due to high stability of solution, CV takes infinite time for decolourisation. Some difference in reaction rate and kinetics is attributed for the structural difference of two dyes. More mechanistic studies on salt effect on hydroxylation of other organic dyes, their comparative studies and surface adsorbent effect are also our ongoing research. The present study offers new perspectives for exploring the potentials of these dyes to study the chemical kinetics and also toxicological properties.','-','-'),(5618,'143','The Effectiveness of Cranberry in Pregnancy: An Analysis','Anu Chopra and Shiwani Singh','4 The Effectiveness of Cranberry in Pregnancy An Analysis Shiwani Singh.pdf','',1,'Cranberry products such as juice and extract are the most advised herbal medicine to prevent recurrent urinary tract infections (UTIs). It is believed that the active ingredient in cranberry prevents adherence of pathogens to the epithelial cells in the urogenital tract, thereby preventing infection. The incidence of UTIs is reported to be significantly higher in pregnant females. Owing to increasing antibiotic resistance and their side effects in pregnancy, it is of importance to identify and study the safety and efficacy of cranberry as herbal medicine for prevention or treatment of UTIs.\r\nThis review evaluates the studies and clinical trials available till date and identifies that high doses of cranberry are safe in pregnancy and may be effective in preventing UTIs. The major challenge faced by the trials is low compliance rate of the participants owing to the unpalatable taste of cranberry extract. A formulation with high levels of cranberry active ingredient and acceptable taste or better mode of administration would be an effective solution to improve compliance for future studies.\r\n','Cranberry, pregnancy, urinary tract infection, UTI, proanthocyanidin','Cranberry juice is one of the most commonly used alternative measure to prevent or treat UTIs in females. A number of studies have reported its consumption to be completely safe during pregnancy with no adverse effects either in mother or fetus. Further, there are pilot studies which shown that cranberry may prove to be effective in preventing UTI in pregnancy. The effectiveness though proved by some studies has been questioned by the Cochrane review which reported a non-significant decrease in symptomatic UTIs over a period of 6-12 months [24]. However, recent studies have highlighted that a high dose of cranberry active ingredient is essential to have a statistically significant reduction in cases of bacteriuria [6]. It is believed that many clinical trials considered for the Cochrane review may be under dosed. If future clinical trials are conducted with appropriate dosage, better clarity could be obtained to identify the effectiveness of cranberry in prevention of UTIs in pregnancy. \r\nCompliance and tolerability are the major obstacles as the above mentioned trials reported a high withdrawal rate mostly due to gastrointestinal disturbances which can limit its use on grounds of acceptability to women.\r\n','-','-'),(5619,'146','Response of Lime, Sulphur and Boron on Nutrient uptake and Soil Fertility after Harvest of rapeseed (Brassica campestris L.) in Acid Soil','Leishangthem Momo Singh, A.K. Singh, T. Basanta Singh, N.C. Gulleibi, Thokchom Dorenchand Singh and Khrawbor Dkhar','66 Response of Lime, Sulphur and Boron on Nutrient uptake and Soil Fertility after Harvest of rapeseed _Brassica campestris L.pdf','',1,'Soil acidity has been identified as a major agricultural issue in hilly areas of North Eastern India that negatively affects crop productivity, either directly or indirectly. In order to address this, a field trial was carried out at Langol Farm, ICAR Research Complex for NEH Region, Manipur Center in the Rabi season of 2020–2021 to examine the impact of lime, sulphur, and boron on nutrient uptake of rapeseed. The experiment was set out using a Randomized Block Design with nine treatments and three replications: T1 (Control, no application), T2 (RDF), T3 (Lime), T4 (Sulphur), T5 (Boron), T6 (Lime + Sulphur), T7 (Lime + Boron), T8 (Sulphur + Boron), and T9 (Lime + Sulphur + Boron). The findings showed that using RDF, Lime, Sulphur, and Boron together resulted in the maximum nutrient N, P, K, Ca, S, and B uptake by seed and stover of rapeseed crop. Further findings showed that the combination use of RDF + Lime improved soil fertility and suggested for improved crop production in acid soil.','Soil acidity, Lime, Sulphur, Boron, Rapeseed, Nutrient uptake','Based on the results of this experiment, it has been determined that the application of lime, sulphur, and boron in combination boosted soil fertility and nutrient uptake, which eventually increased the crop\'s access to macro- and micronutrients. Additionally, it can be inferred that the use of lime, sulphur, and boron in combination with RDF can be employed to enhance soil quality and crop yield for rapeseed in Manipur\'s acidic soil.','-','Leishangthem Momo Singh, A.K. Singh, T. Basanta Singh, N.C. Gulleibi, Thokchom Dorenchand Singh and Khrawbor Dkhar (2022). Response of Lime, Sulphur and Boron on Nutrient uptake and Soil Fertility after Harvest of rapeseed (Brassica campestris L.) in Acid Soil. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 14(4): 382-386.'),(5620,'146','Studies on some Physical and Engineering properties of Finger Millet for Designing Thresher','Kishan Kumar Patel, R.K. Naik, Geeta Patel and Shubham Pandey','67 Studies on some Physical and Engineering properties of Finger Millet for Designing Thresher Geeta Patel.pdf','',1,'Finger millet also known as Ragi is an important staple food for the tribal region of Chhattisgarh. The knowledge of physical and engineering properties of the finger millet grains were important while designing of different agriculture machines. Present study was conducted to determine some of the physical and engineering properties of some finger millet grains varieties for designing of different components of finger millet thresher. The properties such as GMD, sphericity, volume, surface area, 1000 grain weight, bulk density, true density, porosity, coefficient of friction, angle of repose and terminal velocity were determined in the moisture range of 7 to 25 per cent db for three varieties of finger millet grain namely Indira Ragi 1, Chhattisgarh 2 and GPU 28. The result showed that GMD, sphericity, volume, surface area 1000 grain weight, coefficient of friction, angle of repose and terminal velocity increased with increase in moisture content for all the varieties. The values for these properties ranged between 1.33 to 1.52 mm, 0.92 to 0.94, 1.12 to 1.68 mm3, 5.62 to 7.26 mm2, 2.26 to 2.74 g, 0.39 to 0.43, 20.72 to 29.97 o and 4.15 to 5.93 m/s, respectively. The bulk density, true density and porosity of grains decreased with increase in moisture content for all three varieties. The values ranged between 755.67 to 676.45 kg/m3, 1510.96 to 1000.71 kg/m3 and 49.99 to 32.40 per cent, respectively. ','Engineering properties, moisture content, finger millet, physical properties, sphericity','The present study provides the basic information about moisture dependent engineering properties of finger millet plant and its grain. In this study the effect of moisture content and variety of finger millet at different physical properties like, GMD,1000 grain weight, bulk density, true density, coefficient of friction, terminal velocity, angle of repose, were determined. Physical properties of finger millet grains were significantly varies with different moisture content and result shows that the properties are not significantly differ from variety to variety. These properties are very useful for designing different component of finger millet thresher such as feeding chute, aspirator design, blower fan size, output size and slope, cylinder dimensions etc. ','-','Patel, K. K., Naik, R. K., Patel, G. and Pandey S. (2022). Studies on some Physical and Engineering properties of Finger Millet for Designing Thresher. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 14(4): 387-393.'),(5621,'143','Socio- Economic Status of Maize Growers in Udhampur District of Jammu Region','Sunish Sharma, S.P. Singh, Maninder Singh and Sanjeev Kumar,','5 Socio- Economic Status of Maize Growers in Udhampur District of Jammu Region Sunish Sharma.pdf','',1,'A study was conducted in Udhampur district of Jammu region wherein eighty respondents of different land holding were randomly selected to accomplish the study. The proposed study adopted the purposive sampling technique in selection of district Udhampur as it exhibited a concentration of 71.068 thousand MT of Maize production in the Jammu region of the J&K (Directorate of Agriculture, 2018). The average age of Maize growers in Udhampur district was 42.07 years, with a minimum of 26 years and a maximum of 64 years. The study has examined that 33.75 per cent of maize growers of the study area were primary literate whereas only 2.50 per cent were the graduates. A nuclear type of family was seen among the 70 per cent of the maize growers in the study area. The major occupation of the growers was Agriculture (70.00 per cent) followed by Agriculture and other activities (23.75 per cent). The use of local maize varieties, lack of technical knowledge among the growers along with inefficient use of resources were the major challenges that were faced by 11.25 per cent of the maize growers whereas level of literacy among the majority of growers have put a great contribution in better perception of new technology along with the adoption of hybrids.','Purposive Sampling, Maize Production, Age, Literate, Maize Growers, Occupation, Family size','The study may be useful to formulate the policies to improve upon the socio-economic status of the maize growers in Udhampur district of J&K. The study will also help in enhancing the extension services to the targeted sections of the farmers which in turn will improve the technical skills of the growers and will enhance their sustainable approach towards the resources.','-','-'),(5622,'146','Genotype-environment Interactions in Nutmeg (Myristica fragrans Houtt.)','S.C. Priyanka, N. Miniraj, P. Lincydavis and H.C. Vikram','68 Genotype-environment Interactions in Nutmeg _Myristica fragrans Houtt._ S.C. Priyanka.pdf','',1,'Nutmeg (Myristica fragrans Houtt.) is a climate-sensitive perennial spice crop. There are several elite genotypes available in nutmeg which exhibit differential performance at various locations, due to their interactions with the environment. Very less information is available on genotype-environment interactions in nutmeg, which has got a long pre-bearing period. The present study was conducted with dual objectives of examining the performance of a set of nutmeg genotypes across diverse locations and their response to weather parameters with a view to identify genotype-specific adaptation as well as wide adaptability. Six genotypes of nutmeg which include three nutmeg varieties released from KAU, two promising farmer varieties and national check (IISR Vishwasree) were purposively selected for the study. For each genotype, three locations were chosen based on altitude. Six weather variables considered for the study were maximum temperature, minimum temperature, relative humidity, rainfall, wind speed and sunshine hours. To work out the linear relationship between yield traits (nut as well as mace yield per tree) and weather variables, Pearson’s correlation analyses were done followed by stepwise regression. The flowering phase ranged from 31st to the 44th standard meteorological week. The duration of each phenophase varied among the genotypes as well as locations. The weather variables which exerted positive influence on yield were, wind speed and rainfall in KAU Mundathanam (85.5%); maximum temperature in KAU Pullan (40.1%); relative humidity in Kadukammakkal (26.3%). In KAU Kochukudy, it was sunshine hours that influenced the dry nut yield per tree (62.6%) positively whereas it was minimum temperature that exerted a negative influence on dry mace yield per tree (69.0%). The illumination factor, sunshine hours negatively influenced all the yield traits in IISR Vishwasree (81.6%) and Kinattukara (47.2%). Highly significant differential response of nutmeg genotypes with weather was evident from all the locations. The magnitude of influence of weather variables for the yield traits was significantly different and specific to genotype. The study could indicate the suitability of each genotype in the studied locations.','Nutmeg (Myristica fragrans Houtt.), nut yield per tree, mace yield per tree, wind speed, rainfall, sunshine hours','It is important to understand the influence of weather variables in perennial crops like nutmeg. The environments were diverse and there were sizeable differences in the response of genotypes to environments. Among the four phenophases of growth in nutmeg, the fruit development cum maturation phase (P3) is highly crucial with respect to the yield contributing factors in all genotypes. The duration of each phenophase varied among the genotypes as well as locations. Significant variation among genotypes, locations, and for genotype by location interactions with weather variables was observed for the two yield attributes. Considering the genotype-environment influences across the locations, the regression coefficient R2 value for KAU Mundathanam was quite high combined with highest nut and mace yield per tree. The weather variables which exerted positive influence on yield were, wind speed and rainfall in KAU Mundathanam (85.5%); maximum temperature in KAU Pullan (40.1%); relative humidity in Kadukammakkal (26.3%). Sunshine hours showed a positive influence on dry nut yield per tree (62.6%) in KAU Kochukudy whereas minimum temperature showed a negative influence on dry mace yield per tree (69.0%). The illumination factor, sunshine hours negatively influenced all the yield traits in IISR Vishwasree (81.6%) and Kinattukara (47.2%). The check genotype IISR Vishwasree was the lowest yielder across the locations, and remained unaffected by majority of weather variables.','-','S.C. Priyanka, N. Miniraj, P. Lincydavis and H.C. Vikram (2022). Genotype-environment Interactions in Nutmeg (Myristica fragrans Houtt.). Biological Forum – An International Journal, 14(4): 394-403.'),(5623,'146','Effect of Doses of Potassium, FYM and Potassium Solubilizing Bacteria on Kernel Yield, Stover Yield and Drymatter Production in Maize','S. Venkata Lakshmi, M. Latha, P. Mohana Rao and K. Anny Mrudhula','69 Effect of Doses of Potassium, FYM and Potassium Solubilizing Bacteria on Kernel Yield, Stover Yield and Drymatter Production in Maize S. Venkata Lakshmi.pdf','',1,'The experiment was conducted during 2021 at Agricultural College Farm, Bapatla. The design of the experiment used 3 × 2 × 2 factorial randomized block design having 3 factors viz., three levels of K [0% RDK, 75% RDK and 100% RDK (RDK- 80 kg ha-1)], two levels of FYM (0 and 10 t ha-1) and two levels potassium solubilizing bacteria (2 kg ha-1 and 5 kg ha-1). Application of potassium @ 100% RDK (K3) gave the highest kernel yield (5588 kg ha-1), stover yield (8592 kg ha-1) and drymatter accumulation at knee-high stage (801 kg ha-1), flag-leaf stage (5413 kg ha-1) and silking stage (6902 kg ha-1) all these attributes were significantly higher over K1 (0% RDK) and K2 (75% RDK). Application of FYM @ 10 tha-1 (F2) recorded highest kernel yield (4910 kg ha-1), stover yield (7372 kg ha-1) and drymatter accumulation at knee-high stage (725 kg ha-1), flag-leaf stage (4120 kg ha-1) and silking stage (5997 kg ha-1) which was significantly higher over no FYM (F1) application. Potassium solubilizing bacteria (KSB) @ 5 kg ha-1 (KS2) recorded highest kernel yield (4782 kg ha-1), stover yield (7159 kg ha-1) and drymatter accumulation at knee-high stage (717 kg ha-1), flag-leaf stage (3925 kg ha-1) and silking stage (5865 kg ha-1) these were statistically superior over 2 kg ha-1 (KS1) KSB application.','FYM, kernel yield, potassium, potassium solubilizing bacteria','From the present investigation it can be concluded that application of 100% RDK, 10 t ha-1 FYM and 5 kg ha-1 KSB increased the kernel yield, stover yield and drymatter production of maize significantly.','-','S. Venkata Lakshmi, M. Latha, P. Mohana Rao and K. Anny Mrudhula (2022). Effect of Doses of Potassium, FYM and Potassium Solubilizing Bacteria on Kernel Yield, Stover Yield and Drymatter Production in Maize. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 14(4): 405-409.'),(5624,'146','Management of Spodoptera litura in Organic Cauliflower Cultivation','D.K. Shedge, S.K. Bhalkare* and D.B. Undirwade','70 Management of Spodoptera litura in Organic Cauliflower Cultivation S.K. Bhalkare.pdf','',1,'Despite the advantages as tools for eco friendly pest management, the use of botanical pesticides remains low indicating problems in their acceptance. In present study the efforts were made to use the locally available plant materials, it will be simpler and cheaper to prepare the extract for pest control. Attempt to replace insecticides to which the Spodoptera litura had developed resistance have been made in present study to harvest the pesticide free produce. The experiment was laid in Factorial Randomized Block Design during Rabi season of 2020-21 with twelve treatments replicated thrice. The treatments included were, Factor A with organic extracts viz., Triparni extract 10%, PDKV organic formulation 10% and PDKV botanical extract 10% along with control. Wherein Factor B included incubation periods of organic extracts i.e. 7 days incubation, 15 days incubation and 30 days incubation. Finally, cauliflower curd yield was recorded in each of the net plot to compare the effect of different treatments against the major pests of cauliflower. The results revealed that among the treatments, minimum population of S. litura was observed in plots treated with 30 days incubated PDKV organic formulation (2.28 larvae/plant) followed by 30 days incubated PDKV botanical extract (2.68 larvae/plant) and 30 days incubated Triparni extract (2.85 larvae/plant). However, all these treatments were found at par with each other. Whereas, relatively maximum population of Spodoptera was recorded in untreated control (5.37 larvae/plant). However, the treatment of 30 days incubated PDKV organic formulation recorded highest cauliflower yield (22.06 t/ha). Therefore, these organic extracts could be incorporated in integrated pest management program of organically grown crops.','Cauliflower, Incubation period, organic extracts, Spodoptera litura','The treatments with 30 days incubated organic extracts and 15 days incubated organic extracts proved effective in combating the menace of pest of cauliflower and resulted into higher cauliflower curd yield. Thus, these organic extracts would be helpful in mitigating the pest in cauliflower which is alarming in the present situation and could be included in organic cauliflower production as a promising component. ','-','D.K. Shedge, S.K. Bhalkare and D.B. Undirwade (2022). Management of Spodoptera litura in Organic Cauliflower Cultivation. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 14(4): 410-414.'),(5625,'146','Evaluation and Determination of Minimum Inhibitory Concentration of Fungicides against Root Rot Pathogen of Citrus (Phytophthora nicotianae)','Sanhita Malvi, Jayant Bhatt, Ashis K. Das, Pratik Pali, Ashok Kumar, Aatmika Chouhan and Sanjay Kharte','71 Evaluation and Determination of Minimum Inhibitory Concentration of fungicides against Root Rot Pathogen of Citrus _Phytophthora nicotianae_ Sanjay Kharte.pdf','',1,'Phytophthora species are one of the most devastating oomycetes causing root rot of citrus. The pathogen was earlier controlled by metalaxyl (phenylamide), but from 1980’s, development of resistance to phenylamides have been reported. In the present study, efficacy of ten different fungicides, (7 systemic, 2 contact + systemic and 1 contact fungicides) was evaluated against the mycelial growth of Phytophthora nicotianae by poisoned food technique. The result revealed that all the tested fungicides were significant in controlling the mycelial growth as compared to control. Metiram 44% + Dimethomorph 9%, Metalaxyl 4% + Mancozeb 64%, Mandipropamid 23.4%, Fluopicolide 39.5%, and Fluopicolide (5.53% w/w) + Propamocarb hydrochloride (55.3% w/w) exhibited complete inhibition at 250, 500 and 1000 ppm. The least mycelial inhibition was exhibited by cyazofamide (33.85%, 43.85% and 62.31% at 250, 500 and 1000 ppm respectively. To study the minimum inhibitory concentrations (MIC’s) of fungicides, the concentrations were increased/decreased. The response of fungicides on mycelial growth of P. nicotianae was highly variable. Based on MIC’s, the fungicides were grouped into three groups (Group I, II and III). The MIC of Metiram 44% + Dimethomorph 9% was 10 ppm, followed by Metalaxyl 4% + Mancozeb 64%, Mandipropamid 23.4%, Fluopicolide 39.5%, and Fluopicolide (5.53% w/w) + Propamocarb hydrochloride (55.3% w/w) was 30 ppm and were placed in Group I. The MIC of Fosetyl Al, Chlorothalonil 50% + Metalaxyl 3.75% SC and Phosphorous acid was 1000 ppm and was placed in Group II. Azoxystrobin 20% + Difenoconazole 12.5% SC (2000 ppm) and cyazofamide (8000 ppm) were placed in Group III.','Citrus, Root-rot, Phytophthora nicotianae, Fungicides, in-vitro evaluation, Dimethomorph','The use of fungicides in the laboratory and field depends on their in-vitro efficacy at minimal and economically acceptable dosages and their efficient and rapid transport to the infection site. Indiscriminate or inappropriate use can encourage the development of resistance in fungi. The high level of efficacy of five fungicides in our study (Metalaxyl, Fluopicolide, Mandipropamid, Propamocarb and dimethomorph), might help in alternating the use of fungicidal treatments to prevent development of fungicide resistance. Evaluation of MICs of ten fungicides helped to standardize the doses of fungicides against P. nicotianae along with traditionally used Ridomil gold in the present study. This study will be much helpful in future to devise fungicidal application schedule for commercial orchards.','-','Sanhita Malvi, Jayant Bhatt, Ashis K. Das, Pratik Pali, Ashok Kumar, Aatmika Chouhan and Sanjay Kharte (2022). Evaluation and Determination of Minimum Inhibitory Concentration of fungicides against Root Rot Pathogen of Citrus (Phytophthora nicotianae). Biological Forum – An International Journal, 14(4): 415-423.'),(5626,'146','Physiological Response of Rice Genotypes under different Nitrogen Levels and Irrigation Regimes during rabi Season','K. Sridhar, A. Srinivas, K. Avil Kumar, T. Ramprakash and P. Raghuveer Rao','72 Physiological Response of Rice Genotypes under different Nitrogen Levels and Irrigation Regimes during rabi Season K. Sridhar.pdf','',1,'Growing rice under Alternate Wetting and Drying irrigation system is quite different from the conventional flood irrigation as it may lead to a greater loss of applied soil nitrogen compared to that under traditional submergence conditions. A field study was conducted during rabi 2016-17 and 2017-18 seasons at Agricultural Research Institute Main Farm, Rajendranagar, Hyderabad with an objective to study the effect of alternate wetting and drying irrigation regimes on rice genotypes under varied nitrogen levels. The study consisted of three irrigation regimes viz., (recommended submergence of 2 to 5 cm water level as per crop growth stage, Alternate Wetting and Drying irrigation of 5 cm when water level drops to 3cm in field water tube, Alternate Wetting and Drying irrigation of 5cm when water level drops to 5 cm in field water tube) which are main plot treatments and three levels of nitrogen (120, 160 and 200 kg N ha-1) as sub plot treatments and two varieties of rice (KNM-118 and JGL-18047) as sub-sub plot treatments which were laid out in split-split plot design and replicated thrice. A significant improvement in the performance of physiological growth parameters of rice varieties was observed with irrigation regime recommended submergence of 2 to 5 cm water level as per crop growth stage which was on par with Alternate Wetting and Drying irrigation of 5 cm when water level drops to 3cm in field water tube. Higher physiological growth parameters of Rabi Rice varieties was reported with the application of 200 kg N ha-1 which was at par with application of 160 kg N ha-1.','Alternate wetting and drying irrigation regime, nitrogen levels, varieties, dry matter partitioning, SPAD, root length, root volume','From the observations of the present study, AWD irrigation of 5 cm when water level drops below 3 cm from soil surface in perforated pipe (I2) with application of 160 kg N ha-1 in either of varieties JGL-18047 and KNM-118 is needed for superior performance in terms of physiological parameters like leaf area duration, dry matter partitioning, SPAD readings in rice.','-','K. Sridhar, A. Srinivas, K. Avil Kumar, T. Ramprakash and P. Raghuveer Rao (2022). Physiological Response of Rice Genotypes under different Nitrogen Levels and Irrigation Regimes during rabi Season. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 14(4): 424-431.'),(5627,'146','In vitro Management of Rhizoctonia solani causing Sheath Blight Disease of Rice in North Bihar','M.K. Roy, A.S. Kotasthane and S. Kumar','73 In vitro Management of Rhizoctonia solani causing Sheath Blight Disease of Rice in North Bihar M.K. Roy.pdf','',1,'Rice (Oryza sativa L.) is an important staple cereal food crop all over the world, but it is widely grown in South East Asian countries. India is the second largest producer and consumer of rice at global level; however, the crop suffers from a number of biotic and abiotic stresses. Among them sheath blight caused by Rhizoctonia solani is one of the most devastating diseases of rice, which causes yield loss upto 50 %. While investigating suitable in vitro management, it was found that among four botanicals (Datura, Neem, Garlic & Clerodendrum) Neem extracts at 20 % concentration found to inhibit the maximum mycelial growth (74.88 %) while datura extract at 20 % concentration found to be least effective (65.44 %). Tr-2 resulted in maximum inhibition of growth (75.55 %) followed by Tr-3 (72.03 %) while least inhibition percentage by Tr-5 (62.96 %) out of five tested Trichoderma isolates. Hexaconazole 5 % EC was found most effective fungicide in terms of growth inhibition percentage at 200 ppm (97.22 %) while least inhibition percentage was found in case of Azoxystrobin 23 % w/w (79.25).','R. solani, fungicides, botanicals, Trichoderma, Rice','From the above result it is being concluded that among botanicals, Neem extract at 20% concentration, Hexaconazole 5% EC at 200 ppm and Trichoderma-2 resulted in maximum growth inhibition of R. solani.','-','M.K. Roy, A.S. Kotasthane and S. Kumar (2022). In vitro Management of Rhizoctonia solani causing Sheath Blight Disease of Rice in North Bihar. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 14(4): 432-435.'),(5628,'146','Engineering Properties of Sorghum Kernel’s at different Moisture content','Mahendra Daheriya, Mohan Singh, D.K. Verma, Er. K.C. Mahajan and Swati Singh Maravi','74 Engineering Properties of Sorghum Kernel’s at different Moisture content Mahendra Daheriya.pdf','',1,'The fifth-most important cereal in the world is sorghum, which is widely cultivated for human consumption and for use in animal feed. Physical characteristics like size, shape, surface area, volume, density, porosity, colour, and appearance are crucial when designing a specific piece of machinery or figuring out how a product will behave during handling. Standard methods were used to determine the physical properties of sorghum grains. In this study, the average value of sorghum grain dimension was determined at various moisture contents. At 12%, 14%, 16%, 18%, and 20% moisture content, the 1000 grain weight was found to be 39.52 g (±1 g), 47.92 g (±1 g), 52.76 g (±1 g), 61.06 g (±1 g), and 67.26 g (±1 g), respectively. The length (4.30), width (3.87) and thickness (2.74) of the soaked sorghum were linearly increased according to moisture content. The equivalent diameter (4.44), square mean diameter (6.17), arithmetic mean diameter (3.62), geometric mean diameter (3.57), degree of sphericity (0.84), aspect ratio (0.89), and shape factor (4.22) of soaked sorghum all increased with moisture content. The variation of bulk density and true density of sorghum grain with moisture level. The bulk density of sorghum grain decreased linearly from 824 to 801 kg/mm3. The true density of sorghum grain decreased linearly from 1560 to 1370 kg/mm3, respectively. Basic information on these engineering properties is of great importance and help engineers towards efficient process and equipment development.','Moisture content, Bulk density, true density, porosity, Degree of sphericity','1. The engineering properties of sorghum were measured at 12 to 20% (w.b.) moisture content. \r\n2. At 12%, 14%, 16%, 18%, and 20% moisture content, the 1000 grain weight was found to be 39.52 g (±1 g), 47.92 g (±1 g), 52.76 g (±1 g), 61.06 g (±1 g), and 67.26 g (±1 g), respectively.\r\n3. The length (4.30), width (3.87) and thickness (2.74) of the soaked sorghum were linearly increased.\r\n4. The arithmetic mean diameter (3.62), geometric mean diameter (3.57), square mean diameter (6.17), equivalent diameter (4.44), degree of sphericity (0.84), aspect ratio (0.89), and shape factor (4.22), of soaked sorghum were increased as increased moisture content. \r\n5. The variation of bulk density and true density of sorghum grain with moisture level. The bulk density of sorghum grain decreased linearly from 824 to 801 kg/mm3. The true density of sorghum grain decreased linearly from 1560 to 1370 kg/mm3, respectively.\r\n','-','Mahendra Daheriya, Mohan Singh, D.K. Verma, Er. K.C. Mahajan and Swati Singh Maravi (2022). Engineering Properties of Sorghum Kernel’s at different Moisture content. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 14(4): 436-440.'),(5629,'146','Per Se Performance of Brinjal (Solanum melongena L.) Hybrids for Fruit Yield and its component Traits under Normal and Organic Environments','Chander Kanta Kumawat, G.U. Kulkarni, R.S. Tomar, B.A. Monapara, A.G. Pansuriya and L.K. Sharma','75 Per Se Performance of Brinjal _Solanum melongena L.pdf','',1,'Eggplant is an economically important vegetable crop with an extensive diversity among landraces and close relatives. An investigation was carried out in brinjal using 7 diverse parents and mated in full diallel fashion to obtain 42 hybrids evaluated with one standard check GJBH-4 in randomized block design with three replications in normal fertilizer (E1) and organic environment (E2). Observation recorded on 13 characters fruit yield and its attributing traits. According to per se performance for fruit yield per plant JBCL-16-12 × GJB-3, GRB-5 × JBCL-16-12, JBCL-17-01 × GRB-5 and JBCL-16-12 × GJB-2 in normal fertilizer (E1) and JBCL-16-12 × GJB-2, SB × GRB-5, JBCL-16-12 × GRB-5, GJB-3 × GRB-5 and JBCL-17-01 × GJB-3 in organic environment (E2) found superior over standard check. These hybrids can be release as a commercial hybrids or further use in breeding programme to obtain elite segregants in respective environment.','Brinjal, hybrids, per se performance, fruit yield, normal fertilizer condition, organic condition','The significant variation for fruit yield and its component traits were observed in normal fertilizer condition (E1) as well as organic environment (E2). The slow release of nutrient in organic environment resulting in inferior mean value of fruit yield and its component traits viz., days to first flowering, days to first picking, fruit length, fruit girth, average fruit weight, number of fruits per plant, number of primary branches, plant height, days to last picking, number of pickings. The quality parameter TSS content and less fruit borer infestation were good in organic environment. According to fruit yield per plant JBCL-16-12 × GJB-3, GRB-5 × JBCL-16-12, JBCL-17-01 × GRB-5 and JBCL-16-12 × GJB-2 in normal fertilizer (E1) and JBCL-16-12 × GJB-2, SB × GRB-5, JBCL-16-12 × GRB-5, GJB-3 × GRB-5 and JBCL-17-01 × GJB-3 in organic environment (E2) found superior over standard check. These hybrids also superior for fruit yield component traits and can exploit as a hybrid variety at commercial level in normal and organic environment and also further utilized in breeding programme. It conclude from above study the separate breeding programme as well as breeding material required for successful variety development for normal and organic environments.','-','Chander Kanta Kumawat, G.U. Kulkarni, R.S. Tomar, B.A. Monapara, A.G. Pansuriya and L.K. Sharma (2022). Per Se Performance of Brinjal (Solanum melongena L.) Hybrids for Fruit Yield and its component Traits under Normal and Organic Environments. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 14(4): 441-448.'),(5630,'146','Impact of Grafting and different Levels of Spacing and nitrogenous fertilizers on Earliness Parameters of Brinjal (Solanum melongena L.)','S.R. Pradhan, G.S. Sahu, P. Tripathy, S.K. Das, M.K. Mishra, S. Mangaraj and A. Tripathy','76 Impact of Grafting and different Levels of Spacing and nitrogenous fertilizers on Earliness Parameters of Brinjal _Solanum melongena L._ S.R. Pradhan.pdf','',1,'The impact of grafting and different levels of spacing and nitrogenous fertilizers on earliness parameters of brinjal was studied for two years at coastal Odisha climatic conditions for two seasons. The experiment was laid out in double split plot design having grafting (rootstock Solanum torvum) and without grafting as main treatments, different spacing levels (90 × 60 cm2, 90 × 75 cm2 and 90 × 90 cm2) as sub treatments and different nitrogen fertilizer levels (90kg N/ha, 135kg N/ha, 180 kg N/ha and 225 kg N/ha) as sub-sub treatments. The observation for different earliness parameters like days to first flowering, days to 50 % flowering and days to first fruit harvest were recorded. The experimental results showed that the grafted brinjal plants showed earlier flowering and fruiting tendencies than the non grafted brinjal plants.','Days to first flowering, Days to 50 % flowering, Days to first fruit harvest, Grafted brinjal, Spacing, Nitrogen fertilizer level','The research trend as observed in this experiment showed that the grafted plants produce higher early yield compared to the non grafted brinjal plants, which will ultimately help in getting better price in market because of less competition from farmers that grow normal crop. ','-','S.R. Pradhan, G.S. Sahu, P. Tripathy, S.K. Das, M.K. Mishra3, S. Mangaraj and A. Tripathy (2022). Impact of Grafting and different Levels of Spacing and nitrogenous fertilizers on Earliness Parameters of Brinjal (Solanum melongena L.). Biological Forum – An International Journal, 14(4): 449-452.'),(5631,'146','Preparation of Low Cost Silicon Cast of Tracheo-Bronchial Tree of Barbari Goat','Nimgaonkar Mayur Sudhirrao, K.N. Singh, Mukesh Kumar, R.K.Joshi, Pankaj Kumar Choudhary, Sonu Jaiswal and Amit Singh Vishen','77 Preparation of Low Cost Silicon Cast of Tracheo-Bronchial Tree of Barbari Goat Amit Singh Vishen.pdf','',1,'The silicon cast of tracheo-bronchial tree is extremely imperative to understand the distribution of bronchial tree pattern. It may be an ideal model for comparative anatomical study of various species by silicon cast technique. Many different silicone and various methods have been implied earlier with a syringe and a gun but there was a problem with cost and some methods are very difficult that requires much care and expertise. These methods have been implemented not only for lungs but also for cerebral ventricles, bony labyrinth, vascular pattern of liver, kidney, spleen, coronary vessels etc. In present study Barbari goat lung was collected from postmortem cases in the department of Veterinary Pathology, ANDUAT, Kumarganj, Ayodhya. The fresh samples were utilized and silicone sealant was injected in trachea. The trachea was then gradually milked downwards as the silicone was forced into the lungs until the surface of the lungs appeared uneven. The apical bronchus and its segmental bronchi were observed in the caprine lung. This technique is easy, safe, economic and long lasting and can be used for teaching or for museum purposes. ','Tracheo-bronchial tree, silicon sealant and acid maceration','Corrosion casts of the airway of the lungs of mammals make excellent teaching tools and museum items. It looked great and was quite strong. The trachea and deflated lung of a Barbari goat were collected intact. Silicone resin that was sold commercially had a natural self-curing property. As a result, silicone resin was injected into the lung via the trachea. The resin deposited in the trachea must be manually pressed into the bronchi and its branches from the surface of the lungs since the resin\'s viscosity was thick and it cured quickly. It was known when the entire airway was filled with silicone resin when the normal colour of the surface of the lungs changed to the colour of the resin then the entire airway was filled with silicone resin. Then the specimen was hanged undisturbed for one night. Acid maceration may be done to obtain the cast quickly and the resulting cast may well be washed in water. ','-','Nimgaonkar Mayur Sudhirrao, K.N. Singh, Mukesh Kumar, R.K. Joshi, Pankaj Kumar Choudhary, Sonu Jaiswal and Amit Singh Vishen (2022). Preparation of Low Cost Silicon Cast of Tracheo-Bronchial Tree of Barbari Goat. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 14(4): 453-455.'),(5632,'146','Efficacy of Sewage Treated Water on Fish Growth Performance and its Physicochemical characteristics','Reecha, Rachna Gulati and Poonam Devi','78 Efficacy of Sewage Treated Water on Fish Growth Performance and its Physicochemical characteristics Prem Kumar Bharteey.pdf','',1,'In the rapidly urbanizing world, freshwater shortage has been the major concern. On the other hand, there is growing realization to increase aquaculture productivity for food and nutritional security. Therefore, the concept of using wastewater for aquaculture is very much relevant to enhance the productivity. The water quality directly influences the fish\'s growth rate, health, survival and economics of the aquaculture sector. Despite being a rich source of nutrients, the presence of pathogenic microbes and heavy metals in the sewage water may distress the fishes affecting their health and worsening the conditions more. The present review is an attempt to collect all the available literature on fish survival and growth in sewage treated water, water quality parameters, presence of microbial count, heavy metals, their effect on different fish species and biological treatment of sewage treated water to optimize the conditions for fish growth.','Aquaculture, growth, heavy metals, microbial load, sewage treated water','The present review concludes that to reduce the dependency on freshwater aquaculture, different species of fishes are suitable to grow fishes in sewage treated water. In the context of freshwater scarcity, application of sewage in aquaculture ensures water conservation, apart acting as a fertilizer in the culture pond. One of the major hurdle in expanding aquaculture in the present day is the high cost of supplementary feed. And the implementation of sewage in the fisheries sector has proven to be a successful method in boosting the economics of the farmers because it enhances planktonic density and thereby, provides a huge amount of natural foods for fish along with sustainable water productivity. With a high growth performance and great survivability factor, there is an increase in overall yield of the fishes in a harvest season. It is also imperative to note that azolla culture can significantly improve the water quality parameters and reduce the heavy metal concentration in sewage treated water making the sewage treated water suitable for the culture.','-','Reecha, Rachna Gulati and Poonam Devi (2022). Efficacy of Sewage Treated Water on Fish Growth Performance and its Physicochemical characteristics. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 14(4): 456-463.'),(5633,'146','Seasonal Plasma Cortisol Level of Amur Common Carp among different Age Groups in Tarai Region of Uttarakhand','Ningthoukhongjam Soranganba','79 Seasonal Plasma Cortisol Level of Amur Common Carp among different Age Groups in Tarai Region of Uttarakhand Ningthoukhongjam Soranganba.pdf','',1,'Environmental and culture induced stressor like seasonal change in water parameters and handling of brooder are the major precursor for increased in cortisol level leading to detrimental effect on well-being especially growth and reproduction. The study was carried out to assess the cortisol levels of amur common carp in four seasons (spring, summer, autumn and winter)among three different age groups (0+, 1+ and 2+ years) using the RP-HPLC method with relation to its reproductive performance. The assumption on homogeneity of variances was tested and not satisfied based on Levene’s F test, F (19, 78) = 4.761, p< 0.05. Age has a very significant effect on the plasma cortisol concentration among different group of the species, F (4, 98) = 2846.238, p <0.05, η2 = 0.993. Seasonal changes also showed significant effect in plasma cortisol concentration of the species, F (3, 98) = 5157.560, p <0.05, η2 = 0.995. The interaction between the different age groups and seasonal changes was also highly significant for Amur common carp, F (12, 98) = 441.040, p <0.05, η2 = 0.985. Since age and season has significant effect on the plasma cortisol concentration of the species, a Tukey’s HSD post-hoc test found statistically significance between the means of all seasons. Between age groups, the means between male 1+ (37.87±8.46ng/ml) and female 1+ (37.65±2.51ng/ml) were not significant while the means between the remaining age groups were statistically significant (p<0.05). The plasma cortisol level was significantly correlated with gonado-somatic index (r = 0.751, p< 0.01) while non-correlation with hepato-somatic index (r = -0.554, p< 0.01). Plasma cortisol in all the age groups showed highest concentration in concomitant with breeding seasons. Highest level of cortisol was observed during spring season followed by summer, autumn and winter season in which male with older age group (2+ year old) dominated the plasma cortisol level followed by female 2+, male 1+, female 1+ and 0+ year old respectively. The above findings reveal that stress hormone - cortisol is instrumental in reproductive process however care must be taken not to augment secondary stressor from fish husbandry and handling processes.','Amur common carp, cortisol, seasonal reproduction, Tarai region','Plasma cortisol studied in all the age groups has highest level concomitant with other sex hormone and breeding seasons. Highest level was observed during spring season followed by summer, autumn and winter season. Male 2+ year old dominated the plasma cortisol level followed by female 2+, male 1+, female 1+ and 0+ year old groups respectively. Cortisol being a stress hormone, it could vary according to stress induced while handling and also the active mating environment during peak season. It is observed that cortisol manifest the physiological activity having profound effect in the reproductive process of the fish besides secondary stressor. ','-','Ningthoukhongjam Soranganba (2022). Seasonal Plasma Cortisol Level of Amur Common Carp among different Age Groups in Tarai Region of Uttarakhand. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 14(4): 464-467.'),(5634,'146','Effect of Harvesting Dates on Cotton Pink Bollworm Infestation and Sowing Dates on Chickpea Yield in Cotton-chickpea Cropping Sequence','K. Rajashekar, D. Mohan Das and Sreedhar Chauhan','80 Effect of Harvesting Dates on Cotton Pink Bollworm Infestation and Sowing Dates on Chickpea Yield in Cotton-chickpea Cropping Sequence D. Mohan Das.pdf','',1,'An experiment was conducted at Agricultural research station, Adilabad, to assess the effect of harvesting dates on PBW infestation and economy of hybrid cotton and different sowing dates on yield of chickpea. The pooled results indicated that among different harvesting dates viz., 15th November, 15th December, 30th December, 15th January and 30th January during 2018-19 and 2019-20 maximum seed cotton yield (2065 kg/ha) was noticed in 15th December 30th January and 15th November recorded minimum pink bollworm infestation (9.5%), minimum locule damage (8.8) and highest BC ratio (1.78) was noticed on 15th November and found at par with 15th December and 30th December Similarly in Rabi chickpea among different sowing dates viz., 16th November, 16th December, 31st December, 16th January and 31st January the maximum seed yield and highest BC ratio was noticed in 16th November in both varieties JG-14 and NBeG-3 (2250, 2187 kg/ha and 2.59, 2.52, respectively).','Harvesting date, Sowing date, Pink bollworm, Cotton, Chickpea, Cropping sequence, Seed yield, locule damage','From above experiment it was concluded that in cotton-chickpea cropping sequence harvesting of cotton and sowing of succeeding chickpea crop is founded to be most suitable and economical upto 30th December. In this trial, there is no variation of pink bollworm reduction in succeeding cotton crop after chickpea cultivation but in cropping system point of view, cotton followed by chickpea is suitable.','-','K. Rajashekar, D. Mohan Das and Sreedhar Chauhan (2022). Effect of Harvesting Dates on Cotton Pink Bollworm Infestation and Sowing Dates on Chickpea Yield in Cotton-chickpea Cropping Sequence. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 14(4): 468-471.'),(5635,'146','Population Dynamics of Spotted Pod Borer, Maruca vitrata (Fabricius) in Greengram','K.J. Bhuva and S.D. Patel','81 Population Dynamics of Spotted Pod Borer, Maruca vitrata _Fabricius_ in Greengram K.J. Bhuva.pdf','',1,'An experiment on the population dynamics of spotted pod borer, Maruca vitrata (Fabricius) (Lepidoptera: Crambidae) in greengram was conducted at Anand Agricultural University, Anand, Gujarat during kharif 2021. The incidence of spotted pod borer commenced in the third week of August [34thStandard Meteorological Week (SMW)] and it continued up to the harvest of the crop in the 42nd SMW. The spotted pod borer population fluctuated between 0.48 to 2.45 larva(e)/plant with a peak population during the third week of September (38th SMW). A higher incidence of spotted pod borer was observed during the 37th to 42ndSMW. The larval population of M. vitrata exhibited a significant positive correlation with bright sunshine hours (r = 0.7336) and significant negative correlation with the wind speed (r = – 0.7006).','Population dynamics, Maruca vitrata, Greengram, Spotted pod borer','From the present study, it can be concluded that the infestation of M. vitrata in the kharif greengram crop commenced during the 5th week after sowing (34th SMW) and it persisted up to the harvest of crop in the third week of October (42nd SMW). A higher incidence of spotted pod borer (>2.00 larvae/plant) was observed during the 37th to 42nd SMW (8th to 13th WAS), whereas the peak larval density was observed during the 9th week after sowing (38th SMW). Correlation studies indicated that the larval population of spotted pod borer exhibited a significant negative correlation (r = -0.7006) with wind speed and a significant positive correlation(r = 0.733) with bright sunshine hours.','-','K.J. Bhuva and S.D. Patel (2022). Population Dynamics of Spotted Pod Borer, Maruca vitrata (Fabricius) in Greengram. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 14(4): 472-474.'),(5636,'146','Effect on macronutrient of Cajanus cajan root infected by increase inoculum of M. incognita','Anukiran Sahu, D.K. Nayak and Sujit Kumar Behera','82 Effect on macronutrient of Cajanus cajan root infected by increase inoculum of M. incognita Anukiran Sahu.pdf','',1,'M. incognita is the most common and economically significant species of root knot nematode parasitizing most of the crop. Due to infection of nematodes, there is change in the physiological and biochemical pathways in host which responsible for the susceptibility of host to nematode. Since work on biochemical changes in response to nematode infection in pigeon pea is limited, the present study is conductedin order to study effect of increase in inoculum level of M. incognita on macronutrients (Nitrogen, Phosphorus, Potassium) of pigeonpea root. The pot culture research was carried out in Complete randomized design (CRD) with 5 treatments i.e T1 (500 J2/plant), T2 (1000J2 / Plant), T3 (1500J2/plant), T4 (2000J2/plant), T5 (Control) and 4 varieties were UPAS-120(R), IPA-15-1 (MR), IPA 14-7(S), CO-6(HS) in Department of Nematology, OUAT, BBSR in kharif season. With increase in inoculum level there was increase in macronutrients content. Highest increase in Macronutrient nitrogen in treatment T4 then T3, T2 and then T1 over control T5and the N content increased in highest in variety CO-6 followed by IPA-14-7, IPA-15-1 and UPAS-120 varieties. Similar result found in P and K content. The results have demonstrated that nematode infestation leads to highest increased by 60.7%, 75% and 37.22% total N, P and K respectively in the roots of highly susceptible variety of Pigeon pea.','Root knot nematode, M incognita, Pigeon pea (Cajanus cajan), Nitrogen, Phosphorus, Potassium','The attack of nematode on roots of pigeon pea plant has been shown to cause imbalances in the biochemical and nutrients level. The increase level of inoculum of root knot nematode cause disrupted in free flow of water and nutrients to upper part of plant due to blockage of xylem vessels. There is more accumulation of macronutrients (Nitrogen, Phosphorus, potassium) on roots of pigeon pea plant.','-','Anukiran Sahu, D.K. Nayak and Sujit Kumar Behera (2022). Effect on Macronutrient of Cajanus cajan Root infected by increase inoculum of M. incognita. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 14(4): 475-478.'),(5637,'146','Integrated Approach of Nutrient Management for Improvement in Crop Productivity of Okra (Abelmoschus esculentus (L.) Moench) cv. Arka Anamika','Ruby Narwariya, Ankur Sharma and Soni Gupta','83 Integrated Approach of Nutrient Management for Improvement in Crop Productivity of Okra _Abelmoschus esculentus _L._ Moench_ cv. Arka Anamika Ruby Narwariya.pdf','',1,'At present agricultural production is at stagnation as the genetic potential of various vegetable crops or varieties is being utilized up to maximum through application of recommended doses of fertilizers (RDF). The scientific community is looking forward for some suitable advancement in crop production to resolve this challenge. Among the various approaches which are being currently investigated, integrated nutrient management by using organic and inorganic sources of nutrients, fertigation approach, protected cultivation and micronutrient applications are common and reflecting considerable improvement. Considering the significance of integrated approach of nutrient management, the present investigation was carried out with the objectives to determine the impact of organic nutrient sources like farmyard manure (FYM) and vermicompost (VC) and inorganic nutrient sources on growth, yield and quality and production of okra cv. Arka Anamika. The replicated experiment was set up with twelve treatments by using 50 %, 75 % or 100 % of RDF with combination of FYM and/or VC. Among various treatments, T11 (100% RDF + FYM + VC) application resulted in maximum plant height (80.20 cm), number of branches (5.56), number of leaves (68.83), number of nodes per plant (21.33), internodal length (6.91 cm), number of days until first flowering (39.5), number of fruits per plant (18.5), fruit length (17.5 cm), fruit weight (18.34 gm), yield quintal per hectare (8.88 q/ha) with good quality okra fruits and highest net income (Rs. 322589.22) and B:C ratio (2.36). Thus, integrated use of organic and inorganic sources of nutrients is the best strategy to increase productivity and economic yield in okra.','B:C ratio, Inorganic fertilizers, Okra, Net Income, Productivity, Vermicompost','The present findings confirm that the okra cultivar Arka Anamika responded well to the application of (100% RDF + FYM + VC) for good growth, higher yields per plot, quality fruits and high economic benefits. Thus, T11 (100% RDF + FYM + VC) and T10 (100% RDF + VC) were reported as best approach for nutrients management in okra to obtain better yield and economic return. The data analysis shows that the control treatment produced the minimum growth and yield. Therefore, combining the use of organic and inorganic fertilizers is the best strategy to increase production and efficiently manage the resources.','-','Ruby Narwariya, Ankur Sharma and Soni Gupta (2022). Integrated Approach of Nutrient Management for Improvement in Crop Productivity of okra (Abelmoschus esculentus (L.) Moench) cv. Arka Anamika. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 14(4): 479-483.'),(5638,'143','Odd Sum Labeling for Complete Bipartite Graph and its Splitting and Subdivision','M.M. Trivedi and Venus Chaudhary*','6 Odd Sum Labeling for Complete Bipartite Graph and its Splitting and Subdivision Venus Chaudhary.pdf','',1,'In this article the discussion has been carried out on odd sum labeling of a complete bipartite graph K_(2,n), splitting graph of K_(2,n), subdivision of K_(2,n), a super subdivision of cycle C_4n when each edge of the cycle is replaced by K_(2,t) and an arbitrary super subdivision of path P_n when each edge of the path is replaced by K_(2,m_i ) with arbitrary m_i. The aim of this paper is to bring together original research and review articles discussing recent developments in graph labeling. This paper summary is to show the path for new learners to work in the field of odd sum labeling of graphs.','Odd sum labeling, odd sum graph, complete bipartite graph, subdivision, super subdivision, arbitrary super subdivision','-','-','-'),(5639,'146','Effect of Potassium and Zinc Solubilizing Microorganisms on Growth, Yield and quality of Groundnut (Arachis hypogaea L.) in Coastal Zone of Karnataka','Ashwini Patil, G.K. Girijesh, K.V. Sudhir Kamath, B. Sarvajna Salimath and M.S. Nandish','84 Effect of Potassium and Zinc Solubilizing Microorganisms on Growth, Yield and quality of Groundnut _Arachis hypogaea L._ in Coastal Zone of Karnataka Ashwini Patil.pdf','',1,'A field experiment was conducted during summer season of 2021 at ZAHRS, Brahmavara, KSNUAHS, Shivamogga, to study the effect of potassium and zinc solubilizing microorganisms on growth, yield and quality of groundnut (Arachis hypogaea L.) in Coastal Zone of Karnataka. Field experiment consisted of eight treatments viz., absolute control (T1), RDF (T2), RDF with KSB and ZnSB either alone (T3 and T4) or in combination (T5), RDNP + 75 % RD of K and ZnSO4 + seed treatment with KSB +ZnSB (T6), RDNP + 50 % RD of K and ZnSO4 + seed treatment with KSB +ZnSB (T7) and RDNP + seed treatment with KSB + ZnSB (T8) are replicated thrice was laid out in RCBD. \r\nAmong treatments tried, significantly higher plant height (68.35 and 67.17 cm), number of branches (9.84 and 9.5), leaf area (1186.7 and 1174.6cm2 plant 1), number of pods plant-1 (29.1 and 28.3), pod weight plant-1 (21.9 and 21.4 g), were recorded with recommended dose of fertilizer + seed treatment with KSB + ZnSB (T5) and RDNP + 75 % RD of K and ZnSO4 + seed treatment with KSB + ZnSB (T6), respectively. The better values of these indices in T5 and T6 resulted in higher pod yield (1675 and 1654 kg ha-1), kernel yield (1245 and 1224 kg ha-1), protein content (26.75 and 26.63 %) and oil content (49.30 and 48.9 %), respectively, recorded in treatments T5 and T6. Seeds treatment with both potassium and zinc solubilizing microorganisms in addition to state recommended nutrient practices for groundnut resulted in better growth, pod yield, protein content and oil content, over package of practices.\r\n','Dry matter, KSB, Oil content, Seed treatment and ZnSB','From the present investigation, it can be inferred that treating seeds with both potassium and zinc solubilizing microorganisms in addition to state recommended nutrient practices for groundnut resulted in better growth, improvement to the extent of 8.41, 11.45 and 5.32 per cent in pod yield, protein content and oil content, respectively, over package of practices. Further, by seed treatment with both KSB and ZnSB, the cost on K and Zn fertilizers can be saved to the extent of 25 per cent, as treatments T5 and T6 are on par.','-','Ashwini Patil, G.K. Girijesh, K.V. Sudhir Kamath, B. Sarvajna Salimath and M.S. Nandish (2022). Effect of Potassium and Zinc Solubilizing Microorganisms on Growth, Yield and quality of Groundnut (Arachis hypogaea L.) in Coastal Zone of Karnataka. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 14(4): 484-488.'),(5640,'146','In vitro Evaluation of Fungicides and Bio-agents for the Management of Lentil Wilt caused by Fusarium oxysporum f. sp. lentis','Sanjay Kharte, Ashish Kumar, Stuti Sharma, R. Shiv Ramakrishnan, Sanjeev Kumar, Sanhita Malvi, Yashowardhan Singh and Swarna Kurmi','85 In vitro Evaluation of Fungicides and Bio-agents for the Management of Lentil Wilt caused by Fusarium oxysporum f. sp. lentis Sanjay Kharte.pdf','',1,'Lentil wilt caused by Fusarium oxysporum f. sp. lentis is a significant disease and a major limiting factor for production of lentil. The present study on in vitro evaluation of fungicides and bio-agents against Fusarium oxysporum f. sp. Lentis revealed that fungicides provided better inhibition in growth of test pathogen than Trichoderma spp. Among the seven different fungicides, Thiophanate Methyl 450g/l + Pyraclostrobin 50g/l@800 ppm was recorded as best treatment which maximum inhibited the growth of test pathogen (92.60%). Tebuconazole 5.36% w/w FS when applied @800 ppm concentrations was identified another potential fungicide with 91.60% inhibition. Among the four different species of Trichoderma, T. asperellum was found most effective in inhibiting the growth of Fusarium oxysporum f. sp. lentis.','Lentil, Fusarium oxysporum f. sp. lentis, in vitro evaluation, fungicides and bioagents','All the tested fungicides were significantly superior over control in inhibiting the growth of Fol. However, a combination product Thiophanate Methyl 450g/l + Pyraclostrobin 50g/l @ 800ppm exhibited maximum per cent inhibition across all the tested fungicides and concentrations. Tebuconazole 5.36% w/w FS could be identified as second-best fungicide at 800 ppm and best fungicides at all the other tested concentrations. These identified fungicides could be useful in management of Fusarium wilt of lentil. Further, among the different species of Trichoderma, T. asperellum was identified as better antagonist for Fol and can be recommended for management of Fusarium wilt in lentil and organic/ commercial cultivation of lentil.','-','Sanjay Kharte, Ashish Kumar, Stuti Sharma, R. Shiv Ramakrishnan, Sanjeev Kumar, Sanhita Malvi, Yashowardhan Singh and Swarna Kurmi (2022). In vitro Evaluation of Fungicides and Bio-agents for the Management of Lentil Wilt caused by Fusarium oxysporum f. sp. lentis. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 14(4): 489-495.'),(5641,'146','Assessment of Genetic variability, Correlation and Path Analysis in Sesame (Sesamum indicum L.)','Nisha B. Patel, Rajesh R. Acharya, Vishwas R. Acharya, Kalyanrao Patil, Dipak A. Patel and Dinesh J. Parmar','86 Assessment of Genetic variability, Correlation and Path Analysis in Sesame _Sesamum indicum L._ Nisha B Patel.pdf','',1,'Studies on genetic variance, heritability, genetic advance, association, and path analysis were done on 45 genotypes of sesame for 12 variables that contribute to yield. The analysis of variance showed significant differences between the genotypes for each character, indicating that the experimental materials had enough variability. Branches per plant, capsules per plant and seed yield per plant had higher genotypic and phenotypic correlation coefficients. For branches per plant, capsules per plant, capsule length and seed yield per plant high heritability coupled with high genetic advance as percent of mean were detected, indicating that these features are controlled by additive gene action. The characters plant height, branches per plant, capsules per plant, seeds per capsule, test weight, harvest index and oil content showed significant and positive association with seed yield per plant. Therefore, simultaneous improvement of seed yield may be possible through selection of these characters. Path coefficient analysis at genotypic level indicated that capsules per plant, branches per plant, harvest index and oil content had positive direct effects and significant positive correlation with seed yield per plant. Hence, the use of these traits in sesame improvement programme would increase the seed yield.','Variability, Heritability, Genetic advance, Sesame','The assessment of genetic parameters like phenotypic and genotypic coefficient of variation, heritability and genetic advance as per cent of mean indicated that selection must be done in the traits like branches per plant, capsules per plant, capsule length and seed yield per plant indicating that these characters are controlled by additive gene action. The characters plant height, branches per plant, capsules per plant, seeds per capsule, test weight, harvest index and oil content showed significant and positive association with seed yield per plant. Therefore, simultaneous improvement of seed yield may be possible through selection of these characters. Path coefficient analysis at genotypic level indicated that capsules per plant, branches per plant, harvest index and oil content had positive direct effects and significant positive correlation with seed yield per plant. On the basis of these results it was suggested that these traits may be given more importance while making selection for higher yield potential in sesame.','-','Nisha B. Patel, Rajesh R. Acharya , Vishwas R. Acharya, Kalyanrao Patil, Dipak A. Patel and Dinesh J. Parmar (2022). Assessment of Genetic variability, Correlation and Path Analysis in Sesame (Sesamum indicum L.). Biological Forum – An International Journal, 14(4): 496-501.'),(5642,'146','Survey and Response of different Planting Dates against Turmeric Leaf Spot Disease caused by Colletotrichum capsici','Sangameshwar, Sadanand K. Mushrif, Mahesh Y.S., Kiran Kumar K.C., Shankar Meti and Mallikarjun Awati','87 Survey and Response of different Planting Dates against Turmeric Leaf Spot Disease caused by Colletotrichum capsici Sadanand K. Mushrif.pdf','',1,'Turmeric is one of the important spice crops in India. Though the crop is valued much socio-economically and medicinally, the yields are not realized to its potentiality due to various factors viz., subsistence farming, popular varieties being susceptible to biotic and abiotic stresses and limited use of pesticides. Among the biotic factors, the turmeric leaf spot disease caused by Colletotrichum capsici is a limiting factor in turmeric cultivation in Karnataka. Hence, a study was undertaken to understand the prevalence of the disease in Karnataka and the influence of manipulation of the planting dates on the disease behaviour. A roving survey undertaken in Kalaburgi, Belgavi and Bagalkot districts of North Karnataka and Chamarajanagara district of South Karnataka during the year 2015-16 revealed that the disease severity (Per cent Disease Index) varied from 16.25 per cent to 70 per cent. Maximum PDI of 38.89 was observed in Chamarajanagara district whereas, it was minimum PDI (26.98) in Bagalkot district. The variety Cuddapah was susceptible with PDI ranging from 27.67 to 70.00 while the variety Alleppy was moderately resistant with PDI ranging from 17.50 to 22.50. The results on studies on the influence of different planting dates on disease development variety Cuddapah carried out at UHS Bagalkot, Karnataka, revealed that the crop sown on 1st August (late sown crop) registered maximum disease severity with PDI of 58.24 and yielded least fresh rhizome (27.41 t/ha) than the crop sown on May 1st (early sown crop) with an average PDI of 38.59 and highest fresh rhizome yield (34.07 t/ha). Such studies may be useful for taking up appropriate control measures and trace out the resistant varieties available if any and if the varieties are popular but susceptible then it is advisable to manipulate the planting dates that could identify the production period with less disease incidence. ','Survey, Colletotrichum capsici, dates of planting','The present study concludes that the anthracnose disease of turmeric is present in all the surveyed turmeric growing areas in Karnataka with varied disease intensities. Chamarajanagara district of South Karnataka was found to be more prone to the disease attack than Bagalkot district. The variety Cuddapah though popular among the farmers was susceptible to turmeric leaf spot disease than Alleppy which was moderately resistant. The early sown turmeric crop (1st May) registered least disease severity with highest fresh rhizome yield than the late sown turmeric crop (1st August). Therefore, future studies are very much essential to understand the performance of different varieties in particular the resistant ones in those localities where they either have not been popular or ignored by the farmers for many reasons.','-','Sangameshwar, Sadanand K. Mushrif, Mahesh Y.S., Kiran Kumar K.C., Shankar Meti and Mallikarjun Awati (2022). Survey and Response of different Planting Dates against Turmeric Leaf Spot Disease caused by Colletotrichum capsici. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 14(4): 502-508.'),(5643,'146','Root Nodulation in Groundnut as Influenced by varied Dates of Sowing, Plant Densities and Nutrient Levels','C. Prathyusha, D. Subramanyam, G. Karuna Sagar, P. Sudhakar and G. Mohan Naidu ','88 Root Nodulation in Groundnut as Influenced by varied Dates of Sowing, Plant Densities and Nutrient Levels C. Prathyusha.pdf','',1,'Productivity of groundnut is lower than expected due to lack of optimum plant population and imbalanced nutrient application. The efforts to enhance groundnut production can be achieved by increasing the root nodules formation. Various agronomic practices can influence the nodulation process and the consequent nitrogen fixation process which can lead to increased productivity of groundnut. A field experiment was carried out during rabi, 2019-20 and rabi, 2020-21 on sandy loam soils of Krishi Vigyan Kendra, Utukur, Kadapa, Andhra Pradesh. The experimentation was laid out with three replications by adopting split split design. Groundnut variety Kadiri-6 was used for the investigation. The treatments include combination of three dates of sowing, four plant densities (plant spacing’s) and three nutrient levels. Dates of sowing did not exert significant influence on root nodulation in groundnut at all the stages of sampling. Among the different plant densities, 4.44 lakh ha-1 of plant population by maintaining plant spacing of 22.5 cm × 10 cm resulted significantly higher number of effective nodules per plant which was however comparable with 6.66 lakh ha-1 of plant population attained by maintaining the plant spacing of 15.0 cm × 10 cm. Significantly least nodulation was observed with the two plant spacings that accommodate 8.88 lakh ha-1 of plant population. Among the different nutrient levels, application of 150% RDF recorded significantly superior number of effective root nodules per plant which was at par with 125% RDF and both these nutrient levels were significantly superior over 100% RDF. ','Nodulation, Dates of Sowing, Plant densities, Plant spacing, Nutrient levels, Groundnut','From the present experimentation, it was concluded that among different plant densities, plant density of 4.44 lakh ha-1 by maintaining plant spacing of 22.5 cm × 10 cm resulted significantly higher number of effective nodules per plant which was closely followed by the plant density of 6.66 lakh ha-1 attained by maintaining the plant spacing of 15.0 cm × 10 cm. Among various nutrient levels, higher level of nutrients i.e., 150% RDF resulted in significantly superior number of effective root nodules plant-1, however at par with those resulted by application of 125% RDF to the groundnut crop. Future research can take in to consideration of seasonal variations and multilocations with a view to derive concrete recommendations for groundnut growers.','-','C. Prathyusha, D. Subramanyam, G. Karuna Sagar, P. Sudhakar and G. Mohan Naidu (2022). Root Nodulation in Groundnut as Influenced by varied Dates of Sowing, Plant Densities and Nutrient Levels. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 14(4): 509-512.'),(5644,'146','In vitro efficacy of different Fungicides against Fusarium moniliforme causing Bakanae Disease of Basmati Rice','Vikram Singh*, Ashwani Kumar, Promil Kapoor and Mahaveer Singh Bochalya','89 In vitro efficacy of different Fungicides against Fusarium moniliforme causing Bakanae Disease of Basmati Rice Vikram Singh.pdf','',1,'Bakanae which is caused by the fungus Fusarium moniliforme Sheldon (teleomorph: Gibberella fujikuroi Sawada), poses a serious danger to basmati output in all nations that grow the rice varieties including India. It is emerging as major problem in basmati rice producing areas of India. This disease is mainly seed borne but this may be soil borne also. Chemical control provides great opportunity for controlling rice diseases and over last two decades a lot of focus has been shifted towards developing new molecules that can be used for controlling rice diseases. Fungicides are an important tool to control bakanae disease. In this investigation seven fungicides were tested in vitro against F. moniliforme using the poison food technique to determine the inhibitory effect of various chemicals. Each of the fungicide concentrations was to be used: 50 ppm, 100 ppm, 250 ppm, 500 ppm, and 1000 ppm. The four fungicides carbendazim 50 WP (Bavistin), thiophanate methyl 70% WP (Control), trifloxystrobin 25% + tebuconazole 50% WG (Nativo), and carbendazim 12% + manocozeb 63% WP (Crossman) were reported to be the most effective at 50 ppm, with hundreds percent growth inhibition being recorded. At a concentration of 100 ppm, two fungicides tebuconazole 250EC (Tebuzol) and propiconazole 25% EC (Tilt) were very effective. Azoxystrobin 25SC (Amistar) fungicide was shown to be least effective at concentrations of 50 ppm, 100 ppm, 250 ppm, and 500 ppm, inhibiting growth by 46%, 64%, 75% and 88% respectively. At 1000 ppm, it completely prevents the pathogen from growing. According to the results of the current investigation, systemic fungicides effectively control pathogen in vitro conditions. Therefore, these fungicides ought to be used to manage this disease in the field as well.','Rice, Bakanae, Fusarium moniliforme, Fungicides, Efficacy','The four fungicides with the highest efficacy at 50 ppm were carbendazim (Bavistin), thiophanate methyl (Control), trifloxystrobin + tebuconazole (Nativo), and carbendazim + manocozeb (Crossman). At 100 ppm, two fungicides, tebuconazole (Tebuzol) and propiconazole (Tilt), completely prevent the pathogen from growing. Azoxystroin had the least effects, but it was also the efficient at 1000 ppm. According to the results of the current investigation, systemic fungicides effectively control pathogen. Fungicides can therefore be used to treat this disease.','-','Vikram Singh, Ashwani Kumar, Promil Kapoor and Mahaveer Singh Bochalya (2022). In vitro efficacy of different Fungicides against Fusarium moniliforme causing Bakanae Disease of Basmati Rice. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 14(4): 513-516.'),(5645,'146','Impact of Cluster Frontline Demonstration on Organic Nutrient Management in Field Pea in Mamit District, Mizoram, India','Rohit Shukla, Vanlalhruaia Hnamte, Rebecca Lalmuanpuii and Santosh Kumar','90 Impact of Cluster Frontline Demonstration on Organic Nutrient Management in Field Pea in Mamit District, Mizoram, India Santosh Kumar.pdf','',1,'Cluster frontline demonstrations on organic nutrient management in field pea were conducted by KVK Mamit under PKVY during the periods from 2018–19 and 2019–20, respectively, in Darlak and Bawngva villages of Mamit District. KVK provided all critical inputs, i.e., seeds, FYM, bio fertilizers, etc., to the farmers. The productivity and economics of 25 CFLD farmers as well as 25 non-CFLD farmers were investigated during 2018–19 and 2019–20. The CFLD results showed that, in contrast to the potential production of 22 q/ha, the yield of the demonstrations was measured at 15.15 q/ha in the first year and 15.52 q/ha in the following years with mean (15.34 q/ha). The demonstration\'s percent increase yield was 47.09% in 2018–19 and 49.23% in 2019–20, respectively. There is still a heck of a lot of opportunity to increase the yield, as seen by the mean technology gap of 6.67 q/ha. The technology index ranged from 29.45 to 31.14%, while the extension gap ranged from 4.85 to 5.12 q/ha on average during the study period. With an average benefit-cost ratio of 2.45 compared to the local checks 1.84, the exhibited field produced greater mean gross returns (Rs. 78190/ha) and mean net returns (Rs. 46100/ha) (1.84). The current findings conclusively demonstrate that the use of the suggested technology can increase the productivity and profitability of field peas. It has been determined that cluster frontline demonstrations (CFLD) have been successful in boosting field pea productivity.','CFLD, field pea, organic nutrient management, technology gap, extension gap, yield, economics','The study concluded that the results clearly demonstrated that organic nutrient management practices were superior in terms of increasing production and productivity of field pea; this may be due to improved soil fertility. The CFLD programme is a useful instrument for boosting field pea yield and productivity as well as altering farmers\' knowledge, attitudes, and abilities. The idea of cluster frontline demonstration can be applied for all farmer categories, including progressive farmers, to swiftly and broadly propagate the advised approaches to other farmers as well as to other crops.','-','Rohit Shukla, Vanlalhruaia Hnamte, Rebecca Lalmuanpuii and Santosh Kumar (2022). Impact of Cluster Frontline Demonstration on Organic Nutrient Management in Field Pea in Mamit District, Mizoram, India. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 14(4): 517-520.'),(5646,'146','Efficacy on Population Dynamic of Fruit Fly, Bactrocera spp. (Tephritidae: Diptera)','Amit Kumar Patel, Arvind Parmar, Azad Kumar Singh, Vikash Prasad Mishra, Hasamukh Lal, Jahar Singh Rawat and Vishal Sarsaiya','91 Efficacy on Population Dynamic of Fruit Fly, Bactrocera spp. _Tephritidae Diptera_ Amit Kumar Patel.pdf','',1,'Efficacy on population dynamic of fruit fly, Bactrocera spp. (Tephritidae: Diptera) experiment conducted during rabi season 2019-2020 at the Agricultural Organic Research Farm Kargunwaji, Laboratory of Department of Entomology, Bundelkhand University, Jhansi (U.P.). A total number of four species of fruit flies like- Bactrocera affinis, B. dorsalis and B. zonata were trapped in methyl eugenol baited traps and only one species, Bactrocera cucurbitae was trapped in cue lure baited traps. The population range of Bactrocera affinis was recorded 85.6-321.0 FFs/trap/week, B. cucurbitae 106.4-682.76FFs/trap/week, B. dorsalis 33.6-129.56 FFs/trap/week and B. zonata was recorded 88.9- 334.6FFs/trap/week, respectively. The population of Bactrocera affinis, B. cucurbitae B. dorsalis and B. zonata was covered 12.7, 69.0, 5.1 and 13.2 per cent of total trapped population, respectively. Bactrocera cucurbitae was predominant species in cue lure and B. zonata in methyl eugenolbaited traps. The population of B. dorsalis was the lowest compared to all other flies. Its population recorded from 45th SW to 11th SW in the season is as follows 46.7, 49.2, 59.4, 70.3, 79.3, 89.6, 68.0, 56.7, 51.3, 39.9, 33.6, 35.8, 42.1, 56.2, 66.5, 90.1, 102.5,116.5 and 129.5 FFs/trap/week, respectively.','Cure lure, fruit flies, methyl eugenol, population dynamic, traps','•A total of four species of fruit fly were trapped in para-pheromon baitedtraps.\r\n•Bactrocera affinis, B. dorsalis and B. zonata were trapped in methyl eugenol baited traps while only one species, Bactrocera cucurbitae was trapped in cue lure baitedtraps.\r\n•The maximum population of Bactrocera affinis was observed 321.0 FFs/trap/week at 11th SW while minimum population was recorded at 3rd SW with 85.6FFs/trap/week.\r\n•Bactrocera cucurbitae population range was recorded as 106.4 682.7FFs/trap/week during study.\r\n•Bactrocera dorsalis population was on peak at 11th SW and population range was noticed 33.6-129.5FFs/trap/week.\r\n•The population of Bactrocera zonata was lowest during January month and it peak population (334.6 FFs/trap/week) was recorded at last week of season.\r\n•Bactrocera affinis was covered 12.7 per cent of the total trapped fly population.\r\n•Bactrocera cucurbitae was covered 69.0 per cent of the total trapped fly population.\r\n•Bactrocera zonata was covered 13.2 per cent of the total trapped fly population.\r\n•Bactrocera cucurbitae was predominant species of fruit fly during study.\r\n•Bactrocera zonata was predominant species comparison to B. affinis and B. dorsali of fruit fly which were trapped in traps baited with methyl ugenol.\r\n','-','Amit Kumar Patel, Arvind Parmar, Azad Kumar Singh, Vikash Prasad Mishra, Hasamukh Lal, Jahar Singh Rawat and Vishal Sarsaiya (2022). Efficacy on Population Dynamic of Fruit Fly, Bactrocera spp. (Tephritidae: Diptera). Biological Forum – An International Journal, 14(4): 521-524.'),(5647,'146','Effect of Post Harvest Application of Antioxidants and Polyamines on Chemical Parameters of Sapota (Manilkara achras (Mill) Fosberg) Cv. Kalipatti','D. Naga Harshitha*, A. Manohar Rao and Veena Joshi','92 Effect of Post Harvest Application of Antioxidants and Polyamines on Chemical Parameters of Sapota _Manilkara achras _Mill_ Fosberg_ Cv. Kalipatti D. Naga Harshitha.pdf','',1,'Sapota cultivation has gained area in the past couple of decades, but post harvest losses due to spoilage are very high due to lack of adequate post harvest handling facilities and proper infrastructure. To meet out the satisfactory results, several researchers applied some technologies to increase shelf life and quality of fresh fruits. Antioxidants are chemicals which prevent the damage of tissues by scavenging free radicals produced during ripening and there by extend the shelf life of fruits. Polyamines play important role in many plants physiological process such as cell growth, development and responses to environmental stresses. Many studies have shown that polyamines could delay senescence of plant tissues by inhibiting ethylene biosynthesis and there by improve postharvest life of several fruits. The present investigation was carried out at PG laboratory in College of Horticulture, Rajendranagar during 2016-2017 and 2017-2018. The experiment was carried out in Completely Randomized Design with three replications. The chemical parameters like Moisture (%), Total soluble solids (°Brix), Titrable acidity (%), TSS to acid ratio, Total sugars (%), Reducing sugars (%), Non reducing sugars (%), Ascorbic acid (mg/100g) were estimated at 3 days interval during ripening. Postharvest treatment of fruits with antioxidant BA @ 100 ppm (T2) showed minimum physiological loss in weight (17.76 %), maximum number of days for ripening (8.50 days), firmness (1.95 kg/cm2), shelf life (12.17 days), TSS (20.69oBrix), TSS to acid ratio (132.64), total sugars (15.92 %), reducing sugars (7.04 %)and overall acceptability (7.89). There was significant influence of treatments on TSS, TSS to acid ratio, sugars, and non significant influence of treatments on parameters i.e., acidity and ascorbic acid during both the years and in pooled data respectively. Maximum TSS, TSS to acid ratio, sugars were recorded with T2 – BA @ 100 ppm fruits during both the years and in pooled data respectively.','Antioxidants, Benzyl Adenine,Total soluble solids, Polyamines','This study concluded that there was significant influence of treatments on TSS, TSS to acid ratio, sugars, organoleptic score and non significant influence of treatments on quality parameters i.e., acidity and ascorbic acid during both the years and in pooled data respectively. Maximum TSS, TSS to acid ratio, sugars, sensory score were recorded with T2 – BA @ 100 ppm fruits during both the years and in pooled data respectively. ','-','D. Naga Harshitha, A. Manohar Rao and Veena Joshi (2022). Effect of Post Harvest Application of Antioxidants and Polyamines on Chemical Parameters of Sapota (Manilkara achras (Mill) Fosberg) Cv. Kalipatti. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 14(4): 525-534.'),(5648,'146','Performance of different Floribunda roses varieties for Yield, Economics and biotic stress under North Eastern Transitional Zone of Karnataka','Vijayalaxmi G.P., Seetaramu G.K., Lakshmidevamma T.N. and Imamsaheb S.J.','93 Performance of different Floribunda roses varieties for Yield, Economics and biotic stress under North Eastern Transitional Zone of Karnataka Imamsaheb S.J.pdf','',1,'The Experiment was conducted at College of Horticulture, Bidar, UHS, Bagalkot. The growth of ornamental horticulture has been made possible by global trade, with Floribunda roses being the most economically significant. The ornamental business has seen a shift in the production and sale of flowers from the US and Europe alone to production in Africa and Latin America as a result of changes in global trade and an increase in energy costs. India is a rising leader in the export of roses to Europe. An idea of association can be effectively used to develop selection strategies for enhancing yield components from a research of varietal evaluation between various yield and biotic stress. The relative magnitude of the associations between various features and yield should be taken into account for any successful selection programme, therefore a comprehensive understanding of genotypes aids in determining the optimum genotype for a given area. Determining how several Floribunda rose types perform in terms of yield, economics, and biotic stress in the north-eastern transitional zone of Karnataka is the purpose of the current study. RBD was used to plan the experiment, which had 11 different types and three replications. The maximum flower output per plant and flower yield per hectare among the 11 types examined were documented by Cherishma, at 432.89 g and 4.01 t/ha, respectively. Five Star recorded the lower number of ashweevils (2.85), thrips (1.84), and variety Vanish recorded lower number of red spider mites (2.55). Cherishma had the highest gross returns and benefit cost ratio of all the types examined in the pooled mean (2,22,4,653 ha-1 and 2.56 respectively). However, a limited research work is done to know the performance of outdoor rose varieties. The cultivation of rose under open condition is gaining importance in Karnataka due to its relative ease in cultivation, high returns, increasing market demand and high communication facilities. So far, the research work done on the evaluation of rose cultivars to find out their suitability to this tract is meagre. Considering the importance and popularity of rose flowers both in domestic as well as International markets, it is important to study the performance of Floribunda roses varieties for their performance in North Eastern Transitional Zone of Karnataka.','Floribunda roses, Economics, Yield and Biotic stress','From this study, it is evident that adopting Cherishma variety, given maximum flower yield per plant and flower yield per hectare 432.89 g and 4.01 t/ha is most profitable by giving higher gross returns of ` 2,22,4,653 ha-1 and higher BC ratio of 2.56 as compared to rest of the varieties. This was a significant step towards good agricultural practices to adopt the suitable variety for North Eastern Transitional Zone of Karnataka. ','-','Vijayalaxmi G.P., Seetaramu G.K., Lakshmidevamma T.N. and Imamsaheb S.J. (2022). Performance of different Floribunda roses varieties for Yield, Economics and biotic stress under North Eastern Transitional Zone of Karnataka. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 14(4): 535-538.'),(5649,'146','Correlation and Path Analysis Studies for Yield and Yield Attributes in Recombinant Inbred Lines in Cotton (Gossypium hirsutum L.)','Sainath, B.R. Patil, Rajesh S. Patil, Spurthi N. Nayak, Maruthi Prasad B.P., Aishwarya B. and Akshaya M.','94 Correlation and Path Analysis Studies for Yield and Yield Attributes in Recombinant Inbred Lines in Cotton _Gossypium hirsutum L._ Maruthi Prasad B.pdf','',1,'The poor fibre quality and susceptibility of the cotton genotypes to the sucking pests serves as a major setback to the cotton growing community of the country. The present study consists 390 Recombinant inbred lines along with 6 checks which were evaluated in augmented design. The experiment was conducted in botanical garden, University of Agricultural Sciences, Dharwad during kharif 2021. The identification of the strength and kind of relationships between economically significant yield components that contribute to yield in order to increase cotton yield. The correlation study revealed that seed cotton yield was significantly and positively correlated with number of sympodial branches plants-1, number of bolls plant-1, boll weight and lint yield plant-1.Whereas, it had negative association with ginning outturn, seed index and lint index. Path coefficient analysis revealed that plant height, total number of monopodial branchesplant-1, number of sympodial branches plant-1, boll weight, seed index and lint yield plant-1 had a favourable direct effect on seed cotton output, indicating that selecting for these traits would be quite successful in enhancing seed cotton yield in cotton. The objective of this study is to improve the fibre quality and overall productivity through use the recombinant inbred lines.','Correlation, recombinant inbred line, path coefficient, association, augmented design and seed cotton yield','The present investigation revealed that seed index, number of monopodial branches plant-1, lint yield plant-1, number of bolls plant-1, number of sympodial branches plant-1, ginning outturn and boll weight played a major role in cotton yield and fibre improvement of cotton. These characteristics should be considered as significant selection criteria for seed cotton yield improvement in cotton.','-','Sainath, B.R. Patil, Rajesh S. Patil, Spurthi N. Nayak, Maruthi Prasad B.P., Aishwarya B. and Akshaya M. (2022). Correlation and Path Analysis Studies for Yield and Yield Attributes in Recombinant Inbred Lines in Cotton (Gossypium hirsutum L.). Biological Forum – An International Journal, 14(4): 539-542.'),(5650,'146','Influence of Weather Factors on Rice False Smut Disease Development (Ustilaginoidea virens) in Tamil Nadu','Y. Chandra Sekhar, A. Kamalakannan, C. Gopalakrishnan, S. Paneerselvam, S. Rajesh and P. Santhosh Ganapati','95 Influence of Weather Factors on Rice False Smut Disease Development _Ustilaginoidea virens_ in Tamil Nadu Y. Chandra Sekhar.pdf','',1,'Rice false smut caused by Ustilaginoidea virens (Cooke) Takahashi, is an emerging disease of rice. A field experiment was conducted during Rabi seasons (2019-20) to find out the influence of weather parameters on disease development. The data obtained was analyzed through correlation individually. The first symptom of false smut was appeared on 52nd SMW where disease severity was 7.44 per cent and reached the highest level of 50.67 per cent on 6th SMW during 2019-20. The influence of weather parameters on rice false smut development were correlated, the results were the maximum temperature, relative humidity, rainfall, dew and minimum temperature were showed significant positive correlation, were as wind speed and wind direction did not showed any significant correlation on disease development. Similarly, AUDPC were calculated from 52nd to 6th SMW with 26.05 to 220.03. The influence of weather parameters correlation with rice false smut disease development is very essential for forewarning and calendar based fungicidal schedule to control the false smut incidence and reduce the yield losses in rice crop.','Rice false smut, weather parameters, correlation, Tamil Nadu.','To conclude this study, we have studied inflience of weather parameters and correlation with rice false smut diaseas develoment. Based on this to develop the fungicidual schdule in correct time as a prapolactic spray. This will be very helful for controle the disease and ultimatly reduse the yield losses. ','-','Y. Chandra Sekhar, A. Kamalakannan, C. Gopalakrishnan, S. Paneerselvam, S. Rajesh and P. Santhosh Ganapati (2022). Influence of Weather Factors on Rice False Smut Disease Development (Ustilaginoidea virens) in Tamil Nadu. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 14(4): 543-547.'),(5651,'146','Studies on Character Association in Bhendi [Abelmoschus Esculentus (L.) Moench]\r\n','Sundaram V. and E. Venkadeswaran','96 Studies on Character Association in Bhendi [Abelmoschus Esculentus _L._ Moench] Sundaram V.pdf','',1,'A study was conducted at Pandit Jawaharlal Nehru College of Agriculture and Research Institute, Karaikal, UT of Puducherry with 11 diverse genotypes of bhendi during Rabi/Summer 2021 to assess the association between yield and other yield related traits as well as among the yield contributing traits and to partition the correlation coefficients in to effects of direct and indirect causes so as to predict the most dependable characters for effective selection involving more than one trait for a given environment. The significance of the study lies in finding out the major traits directly and indirectly contributing for the fruit yield in bhendi as this would ease the process of selection or development of a suitable genotype for a given situation. The experiment was conducted in a randomised block design with three replications and observations were recorded on 14 biometric traits. The data were subjected to association and path coefficient studies to elucidate the importance of observed traits on exercising simultaneous selection for more than one character. The study revealed the importance of traits viz., number of fruits plant-1, plant height at flowering and number of seeds fruit-1 as primary yield determinants as these traits had shown significant positive association with yield. Hence, selection involving these traits would be of greater significance in enhancing yield of bhendi and these traits could be used as indices for simultaneous selection involving multiple traits for enhanced productivity of bhendi in the region. ','Bhendi, selection, correlation, path coefficient, direct effect, indirect effect','The present investigation on character association and path coefficient analysis involving bhendi genotypes revealed the significance of traits viz., number of fruits plant-1, plant height at flowering and number of seeds fruit-1 as primary yield determinants, while fruit length and plant height at final harvest and number of primary branches at final harvest could be regarded as second order determinants of yield in bhendi. ','-','Sundaram V. and E. Venkadeswaran (2022). Studies on Character Association in Bhendi [Abelmoschus Esculentus (L.) Moench]. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 14(4): 548-551.'),(5652,'146','Assessing the Effectiveness of Newer Insecticides against Rice Leaf Folder, Cnaphalocrocis medinalis (Crambidae: Lepidoptera)','Anil Kumar S.T., Kiran Kumar G.N., K. Chandrakumara, Moulya M.R., K. Srinivas and R.S. Meena','97 Assessing the Effectiveness of Newer Insecticides against Rice Leaf Folder, Cnaphalocrocis medinalis _Crambidae Lepidoptera_ K Chandra Kumar Nayak.pdf','',1,'Leaf folder is one of the major pests of rice which is presently controlled by many insecticides. The present investigation was aimed to study the efficacy of newer insecticides against rice leaf folder. The lowest leaf damage was observed in Emamectin benzoate 5 SG which recorded 1.3% damage, followed by Acephate 50% + Imidacloprid 1.8% SP, Flubendiamide 480SC, thiacloprid 240SC, Spinosad 45SC, Acephate 75SP, Chlorpyriphos 50% + Cypermethrin 5% EC and Fipronil 5SC. After second spray, Emamectin benzoate 5 SG recorded lowest leaf damage (3.85%), which was in line with the Acephate 50% + Imidacloprid 1.8% SP, Acephate75SP, Spinosad 45 SC, Flubendiamide 480SC, Thiacloprid 240SC, Chlorpyriphos 50% + Cypermethrin 5%EC and Fipronil 5SC. While untreated check recorded highest damage as there was no intervention with the insecticide spray.','Leaf folder, efficacy, spray, leaf damage, Novel insecticides','The present investigation revealed that all the tested newer insecticides were effective against rice leaf folder management. Among those Emamectin benzoate 5 SG recorded lowest leaf damage (1.25%), which was on par with Acephate 50% + Imidacloprid 1.8% SP, Flubendiamide 480 SC, Thiacloprid 240 SC, Spinosad 45SC, Acephate 75 SP, Chlorpyriphos 50% + Cypermethrin 5% EC, Fipronil 5SC. In fact, the adverse effects of insecticides on biodiversity limit their usage. Hence, there are several botanical insecticides which yield better results and not have adverse effect on the biodiversity.','-','Anil Kumar S.T., Kiran Kumar G.N., K. Chandrakumara, Moulya M.R., K. Srinivas and R.S. Meena (2022). Assessing the Effectiveness of Newer Insecticides against Rice Leaf Folder, Cnaphalocrocis medinalis (Crambidae: Lepidoptera). Biological Forum – An International Journal, 14(4): 552-555.'),(5653,'146','Evaluating the Performance of Drip Irrigation in Redgram','Shailaja Kola and Murali Bellamkonda','98 Evaluating the Performance of Drip Irrigation in Redgram Shailaja Kola.pdf','',1,'Modern agriculture should ensure the required quantity of water with optimal rates of nutrients throughout the growth cycle in the most efficient manner and without degrading soil and water resources. This can be achieved through adoption of a drip fertigation system with higher water and fertilizer use efficiency. The main aim of this study was to Evaluate the performance of drip irrigation in red gram. The field experiment was conducted during three consecutive years 2016, 2017 & 2018 during Kharif at three locations in farmer’s fields which includes Dasarigudem, Elikatte, and Ramannapet villages of erstwhile Nalgonda district. In this on farm trails compared the performance of redgram under drip irrigation with conventional farmer practices. The average yield (990 kg Ac-1, 1050 kg Ac-1, 1816 kg Ac-1), gross returns (75240 Rs. Ac-1, 53025 Rs. Ac-1, 78451 Rs. Ac-1), net returns (62240 Rs. Ac-1, 39825 Rs. Ac-1, 58611 Rs. Ac-1), B:C ratio (5.78, 4.02, 3.95) in all three locations and all three seasons respectively recorded the highest in drip irrigation system than the farmers practice.','Drip irrigation, Redgram, average yield, conventional farmer, Nalgonda','In this farmers field study at erstwhile Nalgonda district in three locations on drip irrigation in redgram concluded that the trail field i.e., the recommended practices have higher yield, cost of cultivation, gross returns, net returns and B: C ratio than the farmer practices.','-','Shailaja Kola and Murali Bellamkonda (2022). Evaluating the Performance of Drip Irrigation in Redgram. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 14(4): 556-557.'),(5654,'146','Bio efficacy of Pinoxaden on Weed Flora and Yield of Wheat\r\n (Triticum aestivum L.)\r\n','Tanisha Nirala, A.K. Jha, Badal Verma*, Pushpendra Singh Yadav, Mahendra Anjna and Lakhan Bhalse','99 Bio efficacy of Pinoxaden on Weed Flora and Yield of Wheat Badal Verma.pdf','',1,'Heavy weed infestation has become a significant concern in boosting and maintaining wheat productivity. Weeds reduce wheat yield by 25-40%. Effective weed control is essential for increasing wheat productivity, necessitating a detailed analysis of weed flora. Thus, weed management through a proper combination of herbicides can be an option to effectively manage complex weed flora without crop injury. Therefore, a field study was conducted at Agricultural Research Farm, AICRP on Wheat, Jawaharlal Nehru Krishi Vishwa Vidyalaya, Jabalpur, during the Rabi season of 2021. The experiment comprised five post-emergence herbicides application (pinoxaden at 40 g a.i./ha, pinoxaden at 45 g a.i./ha, pinoxaden at 90 g a.i./ha, clodinafop propargyl at 90 g a.i./ha, sulfosulfuron at 25 g a.i./ha) along with weed-free and weedy check treatments. The crop was infested with Phalaris minor, Cichorium intybus, Medicago denticulata and Avenaludoviciana. The results showed that weed management practices significantly influenced grassy, broad-leaved weeds, weed density and dry weight, and pinoxaden at 90 g a.i./ha effectively controls all types of weeds. However, Growth parameters and yield attributes (plant height, number of tillers/m2, grains/earhead) and grain yield were recorded highest with the post-emergence application of pinoxaden at 45 g a.i./ha and found most remunerative than other treatments.','Pinoxaden, Post-emergence herbicide, Weed flora, Weed management practices, Wheat','From the present study, it can be concluded that the application of pinoxaden at 90 g a.i./ha is an effective herbicide for controlling complex weed flora in wheat crops. Although, pinoxaden at 45 g a.i./ha recorded the highest growth parameters, yield attributes, and grain yield and gained higher net returns.','-','Tanisha Nirala, A.K. Jha, Badal Verma, Pushpendra Singh Yadav, Mahendra Anjna and Lakhan Bhalse (2022). Bio efficacy of Pinoxaden on Weed Flora and Yield of Wheat (Triticum aestivum L.). Biological Forum – An International Journal, 14(4): 558-561.'),(5655,'146','A Study on Nutritional Status and Performance of Broilers under Backyard Management for Nutritional Intervention and Profitable Farming in Mizoram','Rajat Buragohain*','100 A Study on Nutritional Status and Performance of Broilers under Backyard Management for Nutritional Intervention and Profitable Farming in Mizoram Rajat Buragohain.pdf','',1,'Nutritional assessment is very important for appropriate feeding management of poultry birds and for nutritional interventions utilizing the available feed resources for economic feeding. Inadequate feeding significantly affects performance of the birds and profitability of the enterprise. The present study assessed the feeding management, growth performance and nutritional status of broiler birds under backyard feeding management in Mizoram. One hundred and fifty small to medium poultry farmers, selected from 10 villages each of Tlangnuam and Thingsulthliah rural development blocks of Aizawl district, were interviewed through a pre-tested semi-structured questionnaire. Information on growth rate at different stages, feeding management data and mortality records were collected and representative samples of feeds fed to broilers were sampled for nutritional analysis. The study revealed rearing of broilers in small flock size of 10 to 50 numbers (averaging 23.33±2.75) and average mortality rate of 6.94±1.57 recorded at 42nd days of age. Availability of quality chicks and feeds were not consistent throughout the year. Proximate analysis of different broiler feeds revealed lower crude protein levels, but higher energy density considering BIS (2007) standard for broiler birds. Intakes of feeds were lower and lower growth rate at different stages under backyard management were recorded. Deficient intakes of protein were recorded during the initial growing period. Energy density of the rations and intakes of energy were higher than their requirements. The findings of the study indicated lack of adequate scientific knowledge about feeding of broilers among the farmers and local constraints affecting broiler farming. Acquiring knowledge from Veterinary professionals about scientific broiler farming, and nutritional interventions through feeding of balanced rations utilizing available feed resources meeting the nutritional needs and intakes, supplementations of deficit nutrients, regular quality checking of feeds were recommended for profitable and sustainable broiler farming in Mizoram.','Backyard farming, broiler, growth, feed intake, nutrient intake, mortality','From the findings of the present study, it was concluded that smaller flock size and lower growth rate of broilers under backyard in Mizoram might be for topographical constrains, constraints relating to quality chick and broiler feeds and lack of knowledge about scientific feeding and management. High energy density of the broiler rations might cause deficient intakes of protein and other nutrients for lower feed intakes. Higher mortality of broilers under backyard rearing might be for compromised immune status of the birds. Nutritional interventions with balanced rations at right amount and time and supplementations of deficient nutrients were suggested for profitable broiler farming in Mizoram. Farmers may be suggested for regular nutritional analysis of the feeds at CAU/ICAR/KVK laboratories to ensure their nutritional adequacy and getting advice from Veterinary professionals for proper feeding. Farmers may further be suggested to follow scientific management practices and to increase flock size to get remunerative profit from broiler farming.','-','Rajat Buragohain (2022). A Study on Nutritional Status and Performance of Broilers under Backyard Management for Nutritional Intervention and Profitable Farming in Mizoram. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 14(4): 562-566.'),(5656,'146','A Study on Nutritional Status and Performance of Broilers under Backyard Management for Nutritional Intervention and Profitable Farming in Mizoram','Rajat Buragohain*','100 A Study on Nutritional Status and Performance of Broilers under Backyard Management for Nutritional Intervention and Profitable Farming in Mizoram Rajat Buragohain.pdf','',4,'Nutritional assessment is very important for appropriate feeding management of poultry birds and for nutritional interventions utilizing the available feed resources for economic feeding. Inadequate feeding significantly affects performance of the birds and profitability of the enterprise. The present study assessed the feeding management, growth performance and nutritional status of broiler birds under backyard feeding management in Mizoram. One hundred and fifty small to medium poultry farmers, selected from 10 villages each of Tlangnuam and Thingsulthliah rural development blocks of Aizawl district, were interviewed through a pre-tested semi-structured questionnaire. Information on growth rate at different stages, feeding management data and mortality records were collected and representative samples of feeds fed to broilers were sampled for nutritional analysis. The study revealed rearing of broilers in small flock size of 10 to 50 numbers (averaging 23.33±2.75) and average mortality rate of 6.94±1.57 recorded at 42nd days of age. Availability of quality chicks and feeds were not consistent throughout the year. Proximate analysis of different broiler feeds revealed lower crude protein levels, but higher energy density considering BIS (2007) standard for broiler birds. Intakes of feeds were lower and lower growth rate at different stages under backyard management were recorded. Deficient intakes of protein were recorded during the initial growing period. Energy density of the rations and intakes of energy were higher than their requirements. The findings of the study indicated lack of adequate scientific knowledge about feeding of broilers among the farmers and local constraints affecting broiler farming. Acquiring knowledge from Veterinary professionals about scientific broiler farming, and nutritional interventions through feeding of balanced rations utilizing available feed resources meeting the nutritional needs and intakes, supplementations of deficit nutrients, regular quality checking of feeds were recommended for profitable and sustainable broiler farming in Mizoram.','Backyard farming, broiler, growth, feed intake, nutrient intake, mortality','From the findings of the present study, it was concluded that smaller flock size and lower growth rate of broilers under backyard in Mizoram might be for topographical constrains, constraints relating to quality chick and broiler feeds and lack of knowledge about scientific feeding and management. High energy density of the broiler rations might cause deficient intakes of protein and other nutrients for lower feed intakes. Higher mortality of broilers under backyard rearing might be for compromised immune status of the birds. Nutritional interventions with balanced rations at right amount and time and supplementations of deficient nutrients were suggested for profitable broiler farming in Mizoram. Farmers may be suggested for regular nutritional analysis of the feeds at CAU/ICAR/KVK laboratories to ensure their nutritional adequacy and getting advice from Veterinary professionals for proper feeding. Farmers may further be suggested to follow scientific management practices and to increase flock size to get remunerative profit from broiler farming.','-','Rajat Buragohain (2022). A Study on Nutritional Status and Performance of Broilers under Backyard Management for Nutritional Intervention and Profitable Farming in Mizoram. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 14(4): 562-566.'),(5657,'146','Multivariate Analysis for Early Genotypes of Garden Pea under Mid Hill condition of Himachal Pradesh','Himani, Shivam Sharma, D.R. Chaudhary, Ankush Sharma and Ketan','101 Multivariate Analysis for Early Genotypes of Garden Pea under Mid Hill condition of Himachal Pradesh Shivam Sharma.pdf','',1,'The current study was conducted to assess yield and horticultural potency to identify the most promising 22 early genotypes of garden pea through multivariate analysis for 16 agro-morphological traits during rabi 2020-21 at CSK HPKV, Palampur. In the past, several high-yielding varieties of mid and late-maturing groups have been developed in the country but very little emphasis has been given for the development of high yielding early maturing genotypes as a result harnessing variability among pea genetic stock now-a-days became a major challenge for the pea improvement program. Mahalanobis D2 statistic grouped 22 genotypes into five clusters. Overall, cluster I was the largest, containing 8 genotypes while cluster IV was solitary having a single genotype. The highest intra-cluster distance was observed in cluster II while inter-cluster distances between cluster I and cluster IV depicted the presence of broad-spectrum genetic diversity. Based on cluster mean analysis, cluster III was found best for pod yield per plant. About, 66.9% variation was explained by the first five principal components with which ascorbic acid (PC1) was the maximum contributor towards genetic divergence followed by pod diameter (PC2), pod yield per plant (PC3), shelling percentage (PC4) and pods per plant (PC5). Hence, pea genotypes belonging to cluster III can be utilized to get higher yield through further heterosis breeding programs. In addition, hybridization between cluster I and cluster IV genotypes could get more recombinants in the segregating generations.','Cluster means, diversity, inter-cluster distances, PCA','The highest inter-cluster distances indicated the presence of wide genetic diversity between the genotypes belonging to any two clusters than the genotypes within the cluster. Cluster III can be utilized to get higher yield through further heterosis breeding programs. The selection of genotypes based upon large cluster distances from all the clusters may lead to favorable broad-spectrum genetic variability, especially between cluster I and cluster IV, which could possibly get more recombinants in the segregating generations.','-','Himani, Shivam Sharma, D.R. Chaudhary, Ankush Sharma and Ketan (2022). Multivariate Analysis for Early Genotypes of Garden Pea under Mid Hill condition of Himachal Pradesh. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 14(4): 567-571.'),(5658,'146','Variability, Heritability and Genetic Advance among Garden Pea (Pisum sativum L.) Genotypes at both Genotypic and Phenotypic Levels','G.R. Naga Vinayaka, Vilas D. Gasti, K.H. Yashavanthkumar, N. Thammaiah, M.H. Tatagar and Vijayakumar Rathod','102 Variability, Heritability and Genetic Advance among Garden Pea _Pisum sativum L._ Genotypes at both Genotypic and Phenotypic Levels G.R. Naga Vinayaka.pdf','',1,'Peas is one of the important leguminous vegetables in India which has wide variability in different parameters with varied yields. The experiment was carried out at AICRP (Vegetable crops) research block, Kumbapur farm, Dharwad during 2020-21. The experimental material comprised of 38 genotypes which was laid out in Randomized complete block design (RCBD) with 3 replications. The observations were recorded on various growth, yield and quality parameters. The analysis of variance revealed that for all the characters investigated, there were significant differences among the genotypes and these germplasms had a higher degree of variability which indicates the presence of wide range of variability in the genotypes. A higher magnitude of PCV was observed than a corresponding GCV for all the characters, indicates that the genetic variation was not limited to genotypic effect alone but also affected by environmental factors. High GCV and PCV (> 20 %) values were observed for number of branches per plant, number of leaves, days to first flowering, days to 50 per cent flowering, days to first pod picking and pod yield per plant (35.53 % PCV and 34.83 % GCV) which indicates the existence of broad genetic base. High heritability estimates coupled with a high GAM and high GCV and PCV values were observed for the traits such as number of branches per plant, pod yield per plant. This suggests that genetic improvement for these traits is possible by selecting germplasm that shows additive gene action. High heritability and GAM were detected for plant height, number of branches per plant, number of leaves, days to first flowering, average weight of green pod, shelling percentage, protein content in seeds, pod yield per plant (96.11 % h2 and 70.35 % GAM), pod yield per plot and pod yield per hectare. This suggests that genotypic and phenotypic improvement for these traits would be possible by selection that shows additive gene action.','Garden pea, Leguminaceae (Fabaceae), Coefficient of variation, Heritability(h2), Genetic advance over per cent mean (GAM)','The analysis of variance revealed that for all the characters investigated, there were significant differences among the genotypes and these germplasms had a higher degree of variability.\r\nHigh (>20 %) GCV and PCV were observed for number of branches per plant, number of leaves per plant, pod yield per plant, days taken for 50 per cent of flowering, days to first pod picking and days taken for first flowering. These findings indicate the existence of broad genetic base which helps in further crop improvement programme.\r\nModerate (10-20 %) GCV and PCV were observed for plant height, average weight of green pod, number of pods per plant, pod length, number of seeds per pod, shelling percentage and protein content in green seeds. Hence, there is moderate variability in these characters.\r\nLow estimates of (0-10 %) GCV and PCV were observed for pod width and TSS. The narrow genetic base leads to divergent genotypes to recover transgressive segregants.\r\nA high estimate of heritability (>60 %) was obtained for all the parameters of the garden pea genotypes. While none of the characters were shown moderate (30-60 %) to low (<30) heritability.\r\nVery high estimate of heritability with high GAM were detected for plant height, number of branches per plant, number of leaves per plant, days to first flowering, days to 50 per cent flowering, days to first pod picking, average pod weight, pod yield per plant, shelling percentage and protein content in seeds. Direct selection would be more effective for these characters because they are dominated by additive components.\r\nHigh estimates of heritability coupled with moderate values of GAM (20 %) were noticed for pod length, pod width, number of seeds per pod and TSS. It indicates that there is little response to selection for this trait due to the prevalence of non-additive components. While none of the traits were shown low GAM.\r\n','-','G.R. Naga Vinayaka, Vilas D. Gasti, K.H. Yashavanthkumar, N. Thammaiah, M.H. Tatagar and Vijayakumar Rathod (2022). Variability, Heritability and Genetic Advance among Garden Pea (Pisum sativum L.) Genotypes at both Genotypic and Phenotypic Levels. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 14(4): 572-578.'),(5659,'146','Growth, Reproductive Performance, and Health Attributes of Crossbred Heifers fed High Plane of Energy and Protein','Palak P. Vaidh, Pravin M. Lunagariya, Jigar H. Patel, Poojan H. Pandya, Malhar R. Khant, Niti Sharma and Kishan N. Wadhwani','103 Growth, Reproductive Performance, and Health Attributes of Crossbred Heifers fed High Plane of Energy and Protein Pravin M. Lunagariya.pdf','',1,'The high feeding of energy and protein enhances the growth of dairy heifers, safety evaluation physiology and health attributes are very essential to established safety. The experiment was planned to evaluate the effect of high energy and protein on growth and reproductive performance as well as the health attributes of crossbred heifers. A total of twenty-one crossbred heifers were selected and blocked in three treatment groups- T1, T2, and T3 based on body weight and age. The control-T1 group was fed a ration with 100% ME and 100% CP of ICAR requirement, the T2 group was fed 125% ME and 125% CP of control, and the T3 group was fed a diet with 100% ME and 125% CP of control diet. The body weight at biweekly intervals was a consideration for the growth performance. The blood was collected from each crossbred heifer at 0, 90, and 140 days of the experiment before feeding and watering. The total body weight gain of heifers was higher (p<0.05) in T2 and T3 groups compared to T1. The daily body weight gain was significantly higher in the T2 group compared to (T1, T3) other. The gain in heart girth was higher (p<0.05) in the T2 group compared to the T1 and T3 groups. All reproductive parameters (AI/conception, age at conception-days, weight at conception-kg) was non-significantly (p>0.05) differing among the treatments. The feeding of high ME and CP TMR resulted in a 40.17 days lower age at conception and 8.64 kg higher body weight at conception compared to T1. The blood (RBC, Hb) and serum biochemical parameters (glucose, total protein, albumin, globulin, A/G ratio, creatinine, AST or SGOT, ALT or SGPT) were within normal physiological range and were not improved by high ME-CP (T2) and high CP (T3) TMR. The WBCs count and BUN were high on feeding high ME-CP (T2) and high CP (T3) TMR. The high ME-CP (T2) TMR has increased and high CP (T3) TMR has reduced total cholesterol and HDL. Only high CP (T3) TMR has reduced LDL levels of crossbred heifers than high ME-CP (T2) and control (T1) TMR.','Crossbred heifers, energy, growth, health attributes, protein, reproduction','The feeding of the high plane of nutrition in terms of ME + CP (T2) and high CP (T3) TMR improved growth, and body weight at conception at a lower age, without adversely affecting health attributes like haematology (WBC, RBC, Hb), energy and protein nutrition (serum glucose, total protein, albumin, globulin, A/G ratio) liver function (AST, ALT), and kidney function (creatinine, BUN).','-','Palak P. Vaidh, Pravin M. Lunagariya, Jigar H. Patel, Poojan H. Pandya, Malhar R. Khant, Niti Sharma and Kishan N. Wadhwani (2022). Growth, Reproductive Performance, and Health Attributes of Crossbred Heifers fed High Plane of Energy and Protein. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 14(4): 579-585.'),(5660,'146','Colonization of Plant Growth-promoting Microbes in Coconut Seedlings','Shanmugapriya D., Roy Stephen, K.N. Anith, Viji M.M. and Prathapan K.','104 Colonization of Plant Growth-promoting Microbes in Coconut Seedlings Shanmugapriya D.pdf','',1,'Button shedding is one of the main determinants of coconut yield which can be reduced by the application of plant growth regulators such as auxins, and gibberellins. Plant growth promoting microorganisms enhance plant growth by improving nutrient availability, regulation of phytohormones and increasing tolerance to biotic and abiotic stresses. The research was conducted to check the colonization of plant growth-promoting fungal endophyte Piriformospora indica and the endophytic bacterium Rhizobium radiobacter in the root of coconut seedlings. The roots were evaluated repeatedly to check the colonization of P. indica by grid intersect method followed by lactophenol-trypan blue staining. The results revealed that the chlamydospores of P. indica were seen colonized in the cortex region of the root hairs of the coconut seedlings which is reported for the first time whereas Rhizobium radiobacter was not found colonized in the roots.','Plant growth promoting microorganisms, Button shedding, Coconut, Colonization, Piriformospora indica','In conclusion, this research delivers evidence of the symbiotic relationship between P. indica and coconut. Piriformospora indica has a wide variety of uses in many crops under different environmental conditions. Thus P. indica exhibits its versatility for colonizing various plant species with direct alteration of auxin signaling. The role of beneficial microbes on auxin production in coconut and the effect of P. indica in the coconut crop has to be studied in the future. These beneficial effects recommend the significant potential for the effective use of P. indica for future microbial bio-fertilizer application in Coconut to enhance the growth promotion and stronger resistance to button shedding.','-','Shanmugapriya D., Roy Stephen, K.N. Anith, Viji M.M. and Prathapan K. (2022). Colonization of Plant Growth-promoting Microbes in Coconut Seedlings. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 14(4): 586-589.'),(5661,'146','Monitoring of Pink Bollworm, Pectinophora gossypiella (Saunders) (Lepidoptera: Gelechiidae) through Sex Pheromone Traps','Kiran Kumar G.N., K. Chandrakumara, Anil Kumar S.T., K. Srinivas and Uday Kumar E.','105 Monitoring of Pink Bollworm, Pectinophora gossypiella _Saunders_ _Lepidoptera Gelechiidae_ through Sex Pheromone Traps K Chandra Kumar Nayak.pdf','',1,'The pheromone-based trapping is a prerequisite in determining the population dynamics of a pest, which in turn helps to take up suitable management practices. The specific sex pheromone traps were used to monitor the adult male population of pink bollworm, Pectinophora gossypiella (Saunders) in the Main Agricultural Research Station, Raichur, Farmer field and also at cotton ginning mills in Raichur. The lures of traps were changed at an interval of 60 days and data were collected weekly. The attraction of male moths of PBW started, at the beginning, of the first week of September and continued till the third week of April at the Main agriculture research station, Raichur and also in the Farmer field whereas, in cotton ginning mills the activity seen throughout the year. The peak catches of the pink bollworm were observed during the last week of December in the Main agriculture research station, Raichur (31.49/trap/week). Whereas in farmer fields peak catches were observed during the second week of January (34.36/trap/week).','Pectinophora gossypiella, Sex pheromone, Surveillance, Cotton boll worms','The activity of pink bollworm moths monitored through sex pheromone traps from June 2017-April 2018 indicated that the activity of moths started from September and continued till the end March. It clearly indicates that the control measure should be initiated from September with all available suitable methods to manage pink bollworm effectively.','-','Kiran Kumar G.N., K. Chandrakumara, Anil Kumar S.T., K. Srinivas and Uday Kumar E. (2022). Monitoring of Pink Bollworm, Pectinophora gossypiella (Saunders) (Lepidoptera:Gelechiidae) through Sex Pheromone Traps. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 14(4): 590-593.'),(5662,'146','Development and Sensory Parameter Evaluation of the Multi Millet (Proso, Kodo and Barnyard) Convenience Noodles','M. Naga Sai Srujana, T. Sucharita Devi, B. Anila Kumari, R. Geetha Reddy and S. Triveni','106 Development and Sensory Parameter Evaluation of the Multi Millet _Proso, Kodo and Barnyard_ Convenience Noodles M. Naga Sai Srujana.pdf','',1,'Noodles are popular convenient wheat-based food consumed throughout the world. As, the millets based products consumption was very low, the study was carried out to increase consumption of millets with common product Noodles. In this study, multi millet flours (proso, kodo and barnyard millet) incorporation in proportions (20:20:20) was used to reduce refined flour in the production of noodles by extrusion technology. The study reports the effect of the multi millet flour incorporation on the sensory properties of the noodles. Variations in proportions of wheat flour replaced resulted in significant changes in the sensory properties of noodles. Among the multi millet convenience noodle formulations MMNF1 was sensorially best accepted in all the sensory attributes having colour score of (7.46±0.16), flavour score of (7.46±0.19) and overall acceptability score of (7.33±0.12). Among the multi millet convenience noodles MMNF1 had higher acceptability index percentage score (79.96). The biggest challenge is product development that may be the absence of gluten in the multi millet flour, color and texture of the millet noodles vary from wheat noodles that challenges the acceptance. The study contributes the nutritional quality, a good alternative for celiac patients with replacement of wheat and also increases the scope of product development.','Sensory, Formulations, Guar gum, Multi millet, Proso millet, Kodo millet, Barnyard millet, Convenience','All the sensory properties showed significant difference at (p≤ 0.05). The results of sensory evaluation and acceptability (%) index revealed that MMNF1 that is prepared with 60% multi millet flour incorporation had highest mean sensory scores and acceptability index percentage (79.96) for all the sensory attributes due to their improved taste and texture when compared to other multi millet convenience noodle formulations (MMNF2-MMNF5).','-','M. Naga Sai Srujana, T. Sucharita Devi, B. Anila Kumari, R. Geetha Reddy and S. Triveni (2022). Development and Sensory Parameter Evaluation of the Multi Millet (Proso, Kodo and Barnyard) Convenience Noodles. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 14(4): 594-600.'),(5663,'146','Effect of Nano Silver, Nano Silica and Dextrose on Extending the Vaselife of Cut Roses','P. Rajya Lakshmi, D. Ratna Kumari, V. Vijaya Lakshmi, R. Neela Rani and A. Meena','107 Effect of Nano Silver, Nano Silica and Dextrose on Extending the Vaselife of Cut Roses Rajya Lakshmi.pdf','',1,'Rose is a principal cut flower in the world trade. Post-storage characteristic is one of the most crucial research problem of a cut rose flower, as they have a limited vase life due to xylem channel blockage and insufficient water absorption. Bacteria obstruct xylem vessels in the stem, which decreases the rate of water supply to flowers. The main aim of the study is to identify and standardize the hydration treatments to extend the vase life of shelf of cut roses. It was investigated whether nano-silver and nano-silicon particles could extend the vase life of cut rose flowers. Under carefully regulated circumstances, cut flowers were stored in vases holding various compositions of 5, 20, and 50 ppm of nano-silver, nano-silica, and dextrose solution treatments. Vase life, colour, form, texture, and appearance were all measured throughout this time. From the results it was found that nano silica reduced lipid peroxidation and stimulated antioxidant enzymes, while nano silver had antibacterial properties at low concentrations. In comparison to STS and silica, the results showed that modest concentrations of nano-silver and nano-silica treatments increased the lifetime of cut flowers. NHT9 gave good results compared to NHT14. The combination of dextrose, silica nano-particles, determined that nano silica particles stimulated the antioxidant enzymes and nano silver particles had a great capability for removing bacterial pollutants. These results implied that to enhance the overall quality and extend the vase life of cut roses, post harvest requires the application of solutions (NHT9- Nano Silver 5 ppm (10 ml) + Dextrose (2 gms) containing nano-silver and nano-silica (mostly nano silver) particles and dextrose.','Nano-silver particles, Nano-silica particles, Dextrose, Colour, Form, Texture, Appearance and Vase life','The vase life of cut rose flowers was greatly increased by utilising nano hydration treatment with 5 ppm concentration of SNP and low concentration NSi, combined with the suppression of microbial development at stem ends. Silver ions move very slowly through the stems of rose blooms. Application of a nanoparticle with antibacterial properties can therefore increase the pace of that and lengthen the longevity of cut flowers. Although nano silica has an impact on vase life and sustaining floral quality along with SNP, its application must be applied quickly to extend the life of cut flowers. Therefore, using SNP (33 nm in diameter) instead of other silver compounds, along with 5% sucrose and 5 ppm of nano silica, is advised to prolong the vase life of cut roses.','-','P. Rajya Lakshmi, D. Ratna Kumari, V. Vijaya Lakshmi, R. Neela Rani and A. Meena (2022). Effect of Nano Silver, Nano Silica and Dextrose on Extending the Vaselife of Cut Roses. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 14(4): 601-606.'),(5664,'146','Identification of Polymorphic Microsatellite Markers among Potato (Solanum tuberosum L.) Genotypes differing in Processing Traits','Soumya Shetty, B.T. Krishnaprasad, S. Shyamalamma, R.L. Ravikumar, H. Amarananjundeswara, Geeta Govind and S. K. Pooja','108 Identification of Polymorphic Microsatellite Markers among Potato _Solanum tuberosum L._ Genotypes differing in Processing Traits Soumya Shetty.pdf','',1,'Potato (Solanum tuberosum L.) is a annual vegetable crop, which belongs to Solanaceae family. In India, there is a huge demand for potato varieties suitable for processing as they have been widely used in agro-based industries. However, certain morphological, bio-chemical and physico-chemical attributes are necessary in potato varieties to meet the requirement for industrial use. In the present study, 35 genotypes of potato differing in processing traits were evaluated for biochemical and physico-chemical properties such as starch, apparent amylose content, amylose: amylopectin ratio and total carotenoids. Highest starch content of 81 per cent was documented in FC-3 with 0.23 percent apparent amylose content and 1:4.5 Amylose: Amylopectin ratio. Further, potato is an auto-tetraploid species with clonal propagation and has got narrow genetic diversity conserved during asexual propagation. Use of molecular markers is most preferred method for the assessment of genetic diversity in this crop. Among the microsatellite markers, SSR (simple sequence repeats) markers are most preferred due to their distribution throughout the genome, co-dominant in nature, low cost and reproducibility. SSR markers linked to processing traits are useful in identifying suitable potato genotype for processing. Hence, in the same genotypes, polymorphic SSR markers were also analysed using known markers viz., STM3009, STWAXY, Inh2α, STGBSS, STI007, STI028, STI060, STI014, STI021, STM0019, STM1106 and STM1051 related to processing traits. Among the different SSR primers evaluated, STWAXY, Inh2α and STI060 showed polymorphism. The size of the amplified product varied from 130 base pairs (Inh2α) to 215 base pairs (STM Waxy). In which, ST Waxy characterized as granule bound starch synthase and Inh2α as vacuolar in vertase inhibitor gene, involved in potato starch metabolism. From the study, it was concluded that SSR markers can be used in the identification of potato varieties suitable for processing type with superior tuber quality traits for further food and non food industrial applications.','Potato, SSR, polymorphism, physico-chemical, biochemical properties','In this study, genotypes were initially screened for their biochemical and physico-chemical properties and significant differences were observed among the hybrids. Highest starch content of 81 per cent was documented in FC-3 with 0.23 per cent apparent amylose content and 1:4.5 Amylose: Amylopectin ratio.Usually, starch properties are considered to be a key factor affecting the functional properties of processed potatoes, which are found to be influenced by cultivars and by environmental factors. Further, in the study, polymorphic SSR markers were also analysed using known markers in the working population.Among the SSRs evaluated, only STWaxy, Inh2α and STI060 showed polymorphism. STWaxy is characterized as granule bound starch synthase and Inh2α is characterized as an vacuolar in vertase inhibitor involved in potato starch metabolism. However, potato genotypes that show polymorphism for the SSRs, also display variation in their starch metabolism or not, requires future studies.\r\nAs potato starch is widely used in the food industry and other industries like textile and paperbecause of its unique physico-chemical properties, current study on use of SSR markers for the assessment of polymorphism is helpful in the identification of potatohybrids suitable for processing with the superior quality traits.\r\n','-','Soumya Shetty, B.T. Krishnaprasad, S. Shyamalamma, R.L. Ravikumar, H. Amarananjundeswara, Geeta Govind and S. K. Pooja (2022). Identification of Polymorphic Microsatellite Markers among Potato (Solanum tuberosum L.) Genotypes differing in Processing Traits. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 14(4): 607-613.'),(5665,'146','Sensory Evaluation of Puffed Rice Developed from Telangana Rice Varieties','Yasarapu Sreenidhi, G. Priya Sugandhi, T. Kamalaja and V. Kavitha Kiran','109 Sensory Evaluation of Puffed Rice Developed from Telangana Rice Varieties Yasarapu Sreenidhi.pdf','',1,'Rice is one of the major grown crop in the Asian countries, due to urbanization and lack of time ready to eat snacks are becoming popular. Puffed rice is one of the most common and economically affordable ready to eat snacks. As puffed rice is most acceptable because of its crispy texture and high shelf-life. Puffed rice are gluten free and reduces the risk of celiac disease. The main objective of this study was to know about the best accepted varieties of puffed rice developed from Professor Jayashankar Telangana State Agricultural University (PJTSAU) KNM 118 (Kunaram Sannalu), JGL 18047 (Bathukamma), JGL 24423 (Jagtial Rice-1), WGL 915 (Warangal Rice-1) and RNR 2354 (Shobhini), where the puffing was done by traditional method of puffing. Among all the varieties other than control puffed rice WGL 915 is the best accepted followed by KNM 118 and RNR 2354 is least accepted variety of puffed rice.','Puffing, puffed rice, ready to eat, sensory evaluation, celiac disease','Among all the five varieties of puffed rice, other than control WGL 915 variety of puffed rice is the best accepted based on all the respective sensory characters. KNM 118 variety of puffed rice is the second most accepted and RNR 2354 is least accepted variety of puffed rice.','-','Yasarapu Sreenidhi, G. Priya Sugandhi, T. Kamalaja and V. Kavitha Kiran (2022). Sensory Evaluation of Puffed Rice Developed from Telangana Rice Varieties. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 14(4): 614-617.'),(5666,'146','Animal Husbandry Practices and Manure Management for Cost-effective Mitigation of Greenhouse Gas Emissions from Dairy Farms in India','Periyasamy Vijayakumar, A. Singaravadivelan, D. Senthilkumar, R. Nithiaselvi, D. Santhi and K. Shibi Thomas','110 Animal Husbandry Practices and Manure Management for Cost-effective Mitigation of Greenhouse Gas Emissions from Dairy Farms in India Periyasamy Vijayakumar.pdf','',1,'Livestock is the main driver for sustainable development in the Indian agriculture system. Livestock contributes both directly and indirectly to climate change through the emissions of carbon dioxide (CO2), methane (CH4), and nitrous oxide (N2O). Through the adaption of best mitigation practices, this livestock sector can reduce its environmental impacts and become more efficient in the use of resources. Hence, this study was planned in order to assess the greenhouse gases (GHGs) emission level in the organized dairy farm with the proposed interventions like improvement in animal reproductive performance, animal health, and manure management. The total GHGs emission in baseline production and the proposed interventions package were 735379 kgCO2-eq/year and 525231 kgCO2-eq/year respectively. With the proposed interventions package, a reduction of 40.59% in total CH4 was observed from the baseline production system. Through the adoption of the manure management system, there was a reduction of 87.42% CH4 emission and a reduction of 16.97% N2O emission was observed. Further, there is a reduction of 29.84% in GHG emissions linked to milk production observed in comparison with baseline production. Based on the findings of this study, if there is an improvement in animal reproductive performance, animal health and manure management showed a 28.58% reduction in total GHG emission annually. Hence, if the proposed interventions were to be implemented in the organized dairy cattle farming system, the GHG emission could potentially be mitigated.','Climate change mitigation; greenhouse gases; crossbred Jersey cattle; Indian dairy farming','This study assessed the GHG emission level in the organized dairy farming system with the baseline data and with the proposed interventions like improvement in animal reproductive performance, animal health, and manure management in Indian conditions. The most important GHG emission source was enteric fermentation followed by CO2 emissions from feed production. With the proposed interventions package, there is a reduction of 28.58% of total GHG emissions annually. Hence, the Indian dairy cattle farming system should address the intervention areas related to animal reproductive performance, animal health, and manure management in order to sustain the livestock production system in the changing climate scenario. ','-','Periyasamy Vijayakumar, A. Singaravadivelan, D. Senthilkumar, R. Nithiaselvi, D. Santhi and K. Shibi Thomas (2022). Animal Husbandry Practices and Manure Management for Cost-effective Mitigation of Greenhouse Gas Emissions from Dairy Farms in India. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 14(4): 618-622.'),(5667,'146','Performance of Vanaraja Poultry Birds under Semi–Intensive System of Rearing at Leparada District of Arunachal Pradesh','Doni Jini, Sunil Doley, Jitendra Kumar and Homeshwar Kalita','111 Performance of Vanaraja Poultry Birds under Semi–Intensive System of Rearing at Leparada District of Arunachal Pradesh Jitendra Kumar.pdf','',1,'Arunachal Pradesh is one of the largest mountainous states of India, which is situated in the north-eastern part of the Himalayan region where economy is derived from horticulture and livestock production, However the productivity of local poultry is poor resulting a huge gap between demand and production, Therefore a high production potential poultry bird Vanaraja was introduced to assess the productive and reproductive performance at different blocks viz., Daring, Basar and Sago (low, mid and high) with objectives to evaluate its performance and suitability for its propagation in Leparada district of Arunachal Pradesh for large scale adoption for commercial production. The statistical technique of multistage stratified random sampling was applied to draw the sample from the selected blocks of Leparada district. The performance of Vanaraja was found to be high and economical compared to indigenous birds and performed found to be best at mid–altitude (Basar circle) compared to low(daring) and high (Sago circle). The average mean body weight at 52 weeks at high altitude was significantly higher than mid and low altitude. Mean age at marketing of Vanaraja was found to be 12±2.79 weeks. On an average, Vanaraja poultry birds attain the sexual maturity at 177 days. Mean body weight of female at egg production was 1747.39±40.63 grams irrespective of the altitude. Average egg production of Vanaraja poultry birds was 25.42±0.13 weeks. Mean monthly egg production was 9.73±0.13 in numbers with no significant differences between the regions. Overall annual mean egg production was 107 numbers of eggs. It was concluded that based on the above study suitable extension model for transfer of improved birds for backyard poultry and its popularization may be developed based on the altitude and preference of the local farmers of the region.','Vanaraja, Backyard poultry, Arunachal Pradesh','The performance of Vanaraja was higher than indigenous birds and performed best at mid altitude compared to low and high in the region. Backyard poultry farming with improved strain of poultry birds can give encouraging result under traditional low input system with initial care and management. Further for horizontal expansion a suitable extension models is required for development, popularization of improved poultry birds based on attitude and preferences of the local tribes living at different altitudes of Arunachal Pradesh.','-','Doni Jini, Sunil Doley, Jitendra Kumar and Homeshwar Kalita (2022). Performance of Vanaraja Poultry Birds under Semi–Intensive System of Rearing at Leparada District of Arunachal Pradesh. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 14(4): 623-627.'),(5668,'146','Sensory Evaluation and Consumer Acceptance of Jaggery Based Minor Millet (Foxtail and Little Millet) Biscuits','T. Ashritha, B. Anila Kumari, E. Jyothsna and M. Srinivasulu','112 Sensory Evaluation and Consumer Acceptance of Jaggery Based Minor Millet _Foxtail and Little Millet_ Biscuits T. Ashritha.pdf','',1,'Processed foods demand is increasing in developing countries like India. Bakery products like biscuits command wide fame among both urban and rural people. These products are the best vehicles to incorporate small millets to enhance their nutritional value. Incorporation of jaggery in food products instead of sugar leads to increase in the nutrient content. Hence, an attempt was made to prepare jaggery based minor millet biscuits with acceptable sensory attributes. The present study was conducted for formulating biscuits by replacing maida with different percentages of foxtail millet and little millet flour. Based on the sensory evaluation 75% millet incorporated biscuits were selected for further product development. Then sugar was replaced with jaggery in different ratios in the selected millet biscuits. The 100% (FJ14 and LJ14) jaggery incorporated biscuits were selected by semi trained panel members and subjected for consumer acceptance. Consumer acceptances were collected from 75 respondents. Results found that 100% respondents felt millet biscuits were highly nutritious. Most of the respondents (98.3%) preferred jaggery over sugar and mentioned the reasons for replacing sugar with jaggery as its nutritive value (56%) and health consciousness (42.7%). These jaggery based millet biscuits are healthy, attractive and can attract a large number of consumers. Millet-based products provide a healthy alternative to malnutrition and lifestyle diseases.','Minor millets, biscuits, jaggery, sensory evaluation, consumer evaluation','In the current study, 75 % millet incorporated biscuits were accepted. The jaggery incorporated biscuits also received good sensory scores in every attribute for all the prepared formulations. Based on the sensory data, the final selected formulations were containing 100% of jaggery in place of sugar. Consumer acceptability of final products was high and people showed interest to purchase jaggery based millet biscuits. The consumers today are conscious about health and searching for newer products which satisfy both taste and health. Thus, these jaggery incorporated millet biscuits are nutritious as well as can also prove to be beneficial in preventing malnourishment among children and adults.','-','T. Ashritha, B. Anila Kumari, E. Jyothsna and M. Srinivasulu (2022). Sensory Evaluation and Consumer Acceptance of Jaggery Based Minor Millet (Foxtail and Little Millet) Biscuits. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 14(4): 628-633.'),(5669,'136','GPS and GIS based Soil Fertility Assessment and Mapping in Blocks of Muzaffarpur District of Bihar','Techi Tagung, Sanjay Kumar Singh, Pankaj Singh, Sumedh R. Kashiwar and Santosh Kumar Singh','285 GPS and GIS based Soil Fertility Assessment and Mapping in Blocks of Muzaffarpur District of Bihar Sanjay Kumar Singh.pdf','',1,'The soil fertility maps generated through Global Positioning System (GPS) and Geographic Information Systems (GIS) for effective decisions making of nutrient management. A soil fertility inventory research was carried out in the Kurhani and Sakra block of Muzaffarpur, Bihar. Assessment of fertility status, altogether 40 (forty) geo-referenced composite soil samples were collected from the various locations of the studied area using a GPS device. The processed soil samples used for soil attributes determination using prescribed standard methods. Soil nutrient status and fertility maps were created by using ArcGIS software employing IDW interpolation techniques. The results clearly indicated that the soils reaction was alkaline in nature having pH value more than 7.5. Soil organic matter and potassium content was found to be low to medium whereas, available nitrogen, phosphorus, and sulphur were recorded low in the blocks. However, copper (Cu) and Iron (Fe) the value of micronutrients showed below critical limits.','GIS, GPS, Muzaffarpur, Soil Fertility Maps','The management of nutrients and soil fertility have an impact on agricultural production, which impacts food security and livelihood. The results indicate that the intrinsic fertility status of the studied area was generally low. Nutrient mining, which entails pulling more nutrients out than are put back in, can be considered as the main reason for soil depletion along with the prevalent soil management practice and environmental conditions in the study area. The spatial distribution and fertility maps that have been produced will be useful to farmers and planners in improving soil management for sustainability and productivity. These maps are expected to aid in their comprehension of the existing soil conditions and decision-making.','-','Techi Tagung, Sanjay Kumar Singh, Pankaj Singh, Sumedh R. Kashiwar and Santosh Kumar Singh (2022). GPS and GIS based Soil Fertility Assessment and Mapping in Blocks of Muzaffarpur District of Bihar. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 14(3): 1663-1671.'),(5670,'146','Genotypic, Phenotypic coefficient of Variation and Heritability and Path coefficient Analysis for Growth and Yield Contributing Parameters in Floribunda Rose','Vijayalaxmi G.P., Seetaramu G.K., Imamsaheb S.J.* and Ganeshgouda Patil','113 Genotypic, Phenotypic coefficient of Variation and Heritability and Path coefficient Analysis for Growth and Yield Contributing Parameters in Floribunda Rose Imamsaheb S. J.pdf','',1,'In India even though a large number of rose varieties are developed but estimation of the phylogenetic relationship and knowing the genetic diversity between genotypes in germplasm of any species is essential as it provides useful traits for further genetic development and increase selection efficiency. Genetic diversity in plant varieties can be estimated by observing the phenotypes of the plants and measuring the morphological characters which in turn lay foundation for breeding programs. Hence the present study on Genotypic, Phenotypic Coefficient of variation and heritability and Path coefficient analysis for growth and yield contributing parameters in floribunda rose. For several yield-attributing variables, correlation and path analyses were carried out for 11 distinct floribunda rose genotypes. To distinguish the role that each component played in the ultimate flower yield, there are a total of twelve separate parameters. The findings showed that for the characters under study, the genotypic correlations were higher than the phenotypic correlations, showing the traits\' strong heritability. The range of phenotypic coefficient of variation was 9.51% (flower length at 285 DAP) to 22.341%. (Number of petals per flower). Genotypic coefficient of variation ranged from 6.95 per cent (flower length at 285 DAP) to 21.23 per cent (flower length at 285 DAP). The estimates of heritability ranged from 46.60 (No. of branches 225 DAP) to 92.50 per cent (Plant spread at 345 DAP). Genetic advance expressed as percentage over mean ranged from 10.46 (flower length at 285 DAP) to 41.57 per cent (Number of petals per flower). The genotypic correlation of flower yield per plant showed highly significant and positive correlation with number of flower per plant (0.859) number of flower per bunch at 225DAP (0.836), number of flower per bunch at 285DAP (0.933), number of flower per bunch at 345DAP (0.759), plant height at 345DAP (0.693), number of branches per plant at 345DAP (0.953), flower length at 345DAP (0.872) and flower diameter at 345DAP (0.860). Since these associations are in desirable direction and selection of these traits may ultimately improve the yield. The path coefficient results showed that at the genotypic level, the number of flowers per bunch at 285 DAP (0.337), the diameter of the flower at 345 DAP (0.087), the length of the flower at 285 DAP (0.364), the spread of the plant at 345 DAP (0.537), the number of branches at 285 DAP (0.049), and the plant height at 225 DAP (0.122) all exhibited the maximum positively direct effect on flower yield per plant.','Floribunda rose, Genotypic, Phenotypic Coefficient of variation and Heritability','From the present investigation, among all traits studied, stronger genotypic correlations, demonstrating the substantial heritability of the features. The genotypic correlation between flower yield per plant and the number of flowers per plant, the number of flowers per bunch at 225DAP, the number of flowers per bunch at 285DAP , the number of flowers per bunch at 345DAP. The highest heritability coupled with high GAM was observed for flower yield per plant, At the genotypic level, flower yield per plant was most positively influenced directly by the number of flowers per bunch at 285 DAP, flower diameter at 345 DAP, flower length at 285 DAP, plant spread at 345 DAP, number of branches at 285 DAP, and plant height at 225 DAP.','-','Vijayalaxmi G.P., Seetaramu G.K., Imamsaheb S.J. and Ganeshgouda Patil (2022). Genotypic, Phenotypic coefficient of Variation and Heritability and Path coefficient Analysis for Growth and Yield Contributing Parameters in Floribunda Rose. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 14(4): 634-640.'),(5671,'146','Correlation and Path Analysis in Advance Breeding Lines of Bread Wheat (Triticum aestivum L. em. Thall) for Terminal Heat Tolerance','Lalit Kumar, Krishan Kumar, O.P. Bishnoi, Deepak Kumar, Naresh, Kavita and Rohit','114 Correlation and Path Analysis in Advance Breeding Lines of Bread Wheat _Triticum aestivum L. em. Thall_ for Terminal Heat Tolerance Lalit Kumar.pdf','',1,'Forty bread wheat advance lines were accessed for correlation coefficients and path coefficient analysis, to identify the terminal heat tolerant genotypes. The present investigation was conducted at Wheat and Barley research area, Department of Genetics & Plant Breeding, CCS Haryana Agricultural University, Hisar during rabi 2019-20 in two sowing conditions (normal and late). Random block design (RBD) design was used with paired row and three replications. Seed yield showed positive and significant correlation with almost all the traits under both conditions except days to maturity, plant height, peduncle length in case of timely sown and days to maturity, grain per spike in case of late sown condition, whereas the results also reveal with path effects by positive direct effect with almost all the traits in both conditions except days to maturity, plant height in timely and only plant height in late sown conditions. Maximum indirect path was recorded for biological yield per plant and harvest index under both the environmental conditions. Based on the correlation coefficients and direct path effects analysis, traits like biological yield per plant, harvest index, 1000- grain weight, NDVI and SPAD value had a strong association with grain yield then other traits; implying sufficient amount of variability present among the genotypes for these traits and selection would be rewarded under heat stress conditions. On the basis of HSI, NW 7049, DBW 14, WH 1021, PBW 825, DBW 304, and PBW 797 lines were determined to be extremely terminal heat tolerant and can be utilized in future recombinant breeding programmes to develop terminal heat tolerant cultivars.','Advance lines, wheat, NDVI, SPAD, HSI and correlation coefficients','In the present investigation, based on the study of character association and path analysis, the traits like biological yield per plant, harvest index, 1000-grain weight, NDVI, and SPAD value may be taken as selection criteria for both morpho-physiological parameters for screening of genotypes for heat tolerance due to their strong association and positive direct effect on grain yield under both the conditions; therefore, direct selection for these traits will be effective for yield improvement. On the basis of the heat susceptibility index (HSI) for all genotypes, the lines viz., WH1021, NW7049, DBW14, BRW 3806, PBW797, PBW 825, and DBW 304 were determined to be highly tolerant for terminal heat stress and may be significantly utilized in future crop improvement programmes.','-','Lalit Kumar, Krishan Kumar, O.P. Bishnoi, Deepak Kumar, Naresh, Kavita and Rohit (2022). Correlation and Path Analysis in Advance Breeding Lines of Bread Wheat (Triticum aestivum L. em. Thall) for Terminal Heat Tolerance. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 14(4): 641-647.'),(5672,'146','Isolation, Molecular and In-silico characterization of Trichoderma spp. from Rhizospheric Soil Sample','Vishwajeet Yadav, Mukesh Kumar, R.S. Sengar, Pushpendra Kumar, M.K. Yadav and Vyankatesh Dhanraj Bagul','115 Isolation, Molecular and In-silico characterization of Trichoderma spp. from Rhizospheric Soil Sample Vishwajeet Yadav.pdf','',1,'Trichoderma, soil-born filamentous fungi are capable of parasitizing several plant pathogenic fungi, it is known as biocontrol agents. Five isolates of Trichoderma spp. isolated from various crop rhizospheric soil in Uttar Pradesh districts were characterized by their cultural, morphological, and molecular level. The isolates differed significantly in terms of colony traits, sporulation, branching of conidiophores, and the colour and shape of phialospores. Molecular analysis of the isolates was done by sequencing the ITS region of ribosomal DNA using specific universal primers ITS 1 and ITS 4. Multiple nucleotide alignment of ITS 1, ITS 4 and 5.8s region depicted intra-specific and inter-specific variations in the ITS sequences among the different Trichoderma species. The result of this research obtained at morphological and ITS-based rDNA region sequencing. The sequencing of these five isolates revealed that the Trichoderma were characterized into Trichoderma lixii (Acc. No. OP031646), three Trichoderma harzianum (Acc. No. OP104445, OP104449, OP104451) and Trichoderma sp. (Acc. No. OP104454). However, significant percentage identity between the known isolate of T. lixii from the database and T. lixii (TBT-13) isolates from wheat is 97% whereas the percentage between the known isolate of T. harzianum and three species of T. harzianum (TBT-14, TBT-15, TBT-16) from potato, wheat, and mustard was 97-98% respectively. Similarly, Trichoderma spp. (TBT-17) are 98% identical to Trichoderma spp. result after NCBI-BLAST. As a result, the study was found to be helpful in identifying Trichoderma spp. from the rhizospheric soil of various crops.','Trichoderma, Biocontrol, Glucanase, Antagonistic, Pathogen, ITS- region','In this study, different species of Trichoderma have been isolated from rhizospheric soil of various crops of different districts in Uttar Pradesh, such as Trichoderma lixii, three species of Trichoderma harzianum and one of Trichoderma sp. The isolated species of Trichoderma were identified on the basis of cultural, morphological and molecular approaches using Internal Transcribed Spacer (ITS-PCR) region amplification. Further, it may be concluded that the Trichoderma isolates are classified into different species after sequencing of ITS region. The obtained sequenced are in-silico characterized through bioinformatics tools such as NCBI- BLAST, MEGA 11.0, Bioedit, Phyre2 etc. Furthermore, it is beneficial that the Trichoderma species acts as biocontrol agents against several pathogenic fungi and produces some lytic enzymes such as glucanase, chitinase, proteases, tubulises etc. These lytic enzymes helped in the management of fungal diseases in crops pand lants. So, Trichoderma is used as a bio-fertilizer and for seed treatment in various crops.','-','Vishwajeet Yadav, Mukesh Kumar, R.S. Sengar, Pushpendra Kumar, M.K. Yadav, Vyankatesh Dhanraj Bagul (2022). Isolation, Molecular and In-silico characterization of Trichoderma spp. from Rhizospheric Soil Sample. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 14(4): 648-652.'),(5673,'146','Standardization of Surface Sterilization for in vitro Cloning of Pomegranate (Punica granatum L.) cv. Bhagwa','Devendra Pal, Mukesh Kumar, Arvind Kumar, R.S. Sengar, M.K. Yadav, Anuj Pal, Kaushelendra Pratap Singh and Vibhu Pandey','116 Standardization of Surface Sterilization for in Vitro Cloning of Pomegranate _Punica granatum L._ cv. Bhagwa Devendra Pal.pdf','',1,'Surface sterilization of explants in tissue culture determines the success or failure of any in vitro propagation system. In the present study, a number of sterilizing agents were used to minimize contamination and increase the survival percentage of pomegranate explants. Explants were alternately treated with fungicide (Tebuconzole 50% + Trifloxystorbin 25% w/w), mercuric chloride (0.1%), and 4% NaOCl2 in combination with each other for different time intervals, followed by ethanol treatment (70%) as the final disinfectant. Every combination gives differential results when they are applied for various durations. Maximum survival (73.33±11.55%) was recorded with the combination (4% NaOCl2 for 7 min + 0.1% HgCl2 for 2 min), followed by (66.67± 5.777%) and 63.33± 11.555%) survival recorded under the treatment (Tebuconzole 50% + Trifloxystorbin 25% w/w for 15 min + 0.1% HgCl2 for 2 min) and (4% NaOCl2 for 5 min + 0.1% HgCl2 for 1 min respectively. The combination of 4% NaOCl2 for 7 minutesn and 0.1% HgCl2 for 2minutesn was found to be the best among the combinations in the study, which gives the highest survival percentage in vitro propagation of pomegranate.','Combination; HgCl2, NaOCl2 sterilization, tebuconzole, trifloxystorbin, pomegranate','In vitro propagation is the very sensitive system of plant propagation, which is positively correlated with the efficiency of sterilant. The exposure time of explants and different concentration of sterilizing agents may have a direct impact on the success rate as a result, the current investigation was carried out and resulted in the successful development of a complete sterilization package for the pomegranate. ','-','Devendra Pal, Mukesh Kumar, Arvind Kumar, R.S. Sengar, M.K. Yadav, Anuj Pal, Kaushelendra Pratap Singh and Vibhu Pandey (2022). Standardization of Surface Sterilization for in Vitro Cloning of Pomegranate (Punica granatum L.) cv. Bhagwa. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 14(4): 653-656.'),(5674,'146','Varietal Screening of Sorghum against Gloeocercospora sorghi, Colletotrichum graminicola and Cercospora sorghi','Banothu Chandrashekar, Yogendra Singh and B.K. Namriboi','286 Varietal Screening of Sorghum against Gloeocercospora sorghi, Colletotrichum graminicola and Cercospora sorghi Banothu Chandrashekar.pdf','',4,'The sorghum crop is believed to have first been cultivated in Africa, it is grown primarily as a food, feed source, and also as staple food source in many countries, particularly in arid regions of the world. The three main foliar pathogens viz., Zonate leaf spot, Anthracnose, and Gray leaf spot, it infects foliage, stalk, panicle, grain and cause severe yield losses in quantity as well as the quality of both grain and straw (fodder). The most effective and environmentally responsible strategy to control these pathogens by incorporation of resistance genes. The best method of control is the use of resistant varieties which is economically feasible and has no residual effect. Fifty-four varieties were evaluated against these three foliar pathogens, to characterize the host responses. PC-4 and Rampur local varieties are highly susceptible to these three pathogens, UTFS-109 is resistant to Anthracnose and Gray leaf spot but susceptible to Zonate leaf spot, CSV-21F is moderately susceptible to Anthracnose and Gray leaf spot, and UTMC-543×PC-7, moderately susceptible to Zonate leaf spot but susceptible to Anthracnose and Gray leaf spot diseases. Out of fifty-four varieties, none of the varieties are resistant to Zonate leaf spot but few varieties are resistant to Anthracnose and Gray leaf spot diseases. Since, Tarai region of Uttarakhand is a hot spot for foliar diseases viz., zonate leaf spot, anthracnose and Gray leaf spot, this study was conducted to screen the varieties/lines showing multiple resistance.','Zonate, Anthracnose, Gray leaf spot, screening, sorghum','The present study shows, among fifty-four varieties PC-4 and Rampur local are highly susceptible to all three pathogens, UTFS-109 showed resistance to Anthracnose and Gray leaf spot but susceptible to Zonate leaf spot, CSV-21F is moderately susceptible to Anthracnose and Gray leaf spot and UTMC-543×PC-7 was moderately susceptible to Zonate leaf spot but susceptible to Anthracnose and Gray leaf spot diseases. Out of fifty-four varieties, none of the varieties show resistance against Zonate leaf spot but some varieties showed resistance against Anthracnose and Gray leaf spot diseases.','-','Banothu Chandrashekar, Yogendra Singh and B.K. Namriboi (2022). Varietal Screening of Sorghum against Gloeocercospora sorghi, Colletotrichum graminicola and Cercospora sorghi. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 14(3): 1672-1677.'),(5675,'136','Varietal Screening of Sorghum against Gloeocercospora sorghi, Colletotrichum graminicola and Cercospora sorghi','Banothu Chandrashekar, Yogendra Singh and B.K. Namriboi','286 Varietal Screening of Sorghum against Gloeocercospora sorghi, Colletotrichum graminicola and Cercospora sorghi Banothu Chandrashekar.pdf','',1,'The sorghum crop is believed to have first been cultivated in Africa, it is grown primarily as a food, feed source, and also as staple food source in many countries, particularly in arid regions of the world. The three main foliar pathogens viz., Zonate leaf spot, Anthracnose, and Gray leaf spot, it infects foliage, stalk, panicle, grain and cause severe yield losses in quantity as well as the quality of both grain and straw (fodder). The most effective and environmentally responsible strategy to control these pathogens by incorporation of resistance genes. The best method of control is the use of resistant varieties which is economically feasible and has no residual effect. Fifty-four varieties were evaluated against these three foliar pathogens, to characterize the host responses. PC-4 and Rampur local varieties are highly susceptible to these three pathogens, UTFS-109 is resistant to Anthracnose and Gray leaf spot but susceptible to Zonate leaf spot, CSV-21F is moderately susceptible to Anthracnose and Gray leaf spot, and UTMC-543×PC-7, moderately susceptible to Zonate leaf spot but susceptible to Anthracnose and Gray leaf spot diseases. Out of fifty-four varieties, none of the varieties are resistant to Zonate leaf spot but few varieties are resistant to Anthracnose and Gray leaf spot diseases. Since, Tarai region of Uttarakhand is a hot spot for foliar diseases viz., zonate leaf spot, anthracnose and Gray leaf spot, this study was conducted to screen the varieties/lines showing multiple resistance.','Zonate, Anthracnose, Gray leaf spot, screening, sorghum','The present study shows, among fifty-four varieties PC-4 and Rampur local are highly susceptible to all three pathogens, UTFS-109 showed resistance to Anthracnose and Gray leaf spot but susceptible to Zonate leaf spot, CSV-21F is moderately susceptible to Anthracnose and Gray leaf spot and UTMC-543×PC-7 was moderately susceptible to Zonate leaf spot but susceptible to Anthracnose and Gray leaf spot diseases. Out of fifty-four varieties, none of the varieties show resistance against Zonate leaf spot but some varieties showed resistance against Anthracnose and Gray leaf spot diseases.','-','Banothu Chandrashekar, Yogendra Singh and B.K. Namriboi (2022). Varietal Screening of Sorghum against Gloeocercospora sorghi, Colletotrichum graminicola and Cercospora sorghi. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 14(3): 1672-1677.'),(5676,'143','An Optimistic Aid in Improving Aquaculture Production: Biofloc Technology','Reecha, Rachna Gulati, Paramveer Singh and Karuna Bamel','7 An Optimistic Aid in Improving Aquaculture Production Biofloc Technology Reecha.pdf','',1,'In the rapidly urbanizing world, there is growing realization to increase aquaculture productivity for food and nutritional security. In an attempt to preserve the natural resources and environment, the expansion must take place in a sustainable manner. Biofloc technology is a prudent aquaculture tool for boosting water quality, enhancing feed utilization and mitigates external pathogens. It has been marked as a novel “blue revolution” since the nutrients in the culture is recycled and reused continuously with zero or minimum water exchange, which facilitates a high stocking density and increased fish productivity in aquaculture system. Biofloc, a macro-aggregation of various bacteria, algae, detritus and other microorganisms converts the toxic nitrogenous compounds into useful and proteinaceous microbes also called as Single cell protein (SCP) serving as a feed supplement to the cultured organisms. It stimulates the development of aerobic and heterotrophic bacteria in the presence of carbon and constant aeration in the environment. Microorganisms play a major role in natural aquatic resources, and the intensity of solar energy, organic matter density and added carbon sources affect their activity. Hence, an optimal C: N ratio is essential to improve production and recycling of nutrients. However, there is a need to develop techniques for the monitoring of floc characteristics and its composition. Optimization of the nutritional quality of the floc, identification of beneficial micro-organisms and integration of biofloc technology in the existing system required to be fulfilled for a prominent result. With the proper monitoring of the biofloc system, the implementation of this technology may proves handy to the fish/shrimp farmers.','Biofloc, water quality, microorganism, aquaculture, environmental friendly','Biofloc technology has proven its potential by improving aquaculture production that directly aids in the attainment of sustainable development goals. By producing a higher productivity and lesser impact on environment, this technology not only act as an eco-friendly and sustainable method but also minimizes land and water resources. Biofloc a rich source of microbial protein when acquainted with the commercial feed creates a nutritious and healthy food chain and improves the growth performance of aquatic life in addition to minimizing the dependency on costlier fish meals. So concluded from the review that biofloc technology is full of assets by improving biosecurity, diminishing pathogenic interaction, lowering feed utilization, increasing growth and survival and hence boosting productivity of the system. Farmers must be trained practically about the successful experience of the biofloc technology along with its economic benefits. ','-','-'),(5677,'76','Economic Analysis of Sugarcane Cultivation in Andhra Pradesh, India','I. V. Y. Rama Rao','9 Economic Analysis of Sugarcane Cultivation in Andhra Pradesh, India I. V. Y.pdf','',1,'The area under sugarcane in India decreased from 5.06 Million hectares (Mha) to 4.57 Mha and during 2018-19 to 2019-20. Scenario was much worse in Andhra Pradesh state, where the area dwindled down (38%) from 1.39 Lakh Hectares (Lha) to 0.86 Lha in a span of five years (from 2014-15 to 2019-20). The present study was an attempt to estimate the factors affecting the sugarcane cultivation in Andhra Pradesh for the period 2019-20. The data on various aspects of costs and returns involved in crop collected from farmers based on multistage sampling. Budgeting techniques, Cost Concepts, Benefit Cost Ratio (BCR) and Bisliah model of Yield gap Analysis were employed for achieving objectives. The results revealed that, in plant crop, Benefit Cost Ratio (BCR on Operational Cost) was higher in rainfed (0.96) than irrigated (0.94). There was a 65.55 % yield gap between irrigated and rainfed, in which input usage (37.23%) had higher effect than cultural practices (28.32%). So, irrigated sugarcane method is a more remunerative, yields can be sustainable if irrigation is assured with proper package of practices.','Sugarcane, Yield gap analysis, Irrigation, Srikakulam, Vizianagaram, Visakhapatnam, North Coastal Zone Andhra Pradesh','(i) Return on Investment was Higher in ratoon crop than plant crop\r\n(ii) Human labour was the most important factor under both rainfed and irrigation conditions \r\n(iii) In-put use difference (37.23%) was major contributor than cultural practices (28.32%) in yield gap (65.55%) between irrigated and rainfed sugarcane.\r\n','-','-'),(5678,'146','Effect of Pre-Treatments on the Shelf Life of Banana Leaves','Kiranmayi B., Naga Lakshmi R., Ramanandam G., Madhavi M. and Paratapara Rao M.','117 Effect of Pre-Treatments on the Shelf Life of Banana Leaves Kiranmayi B.pdf','',1,'Longer shelf life of banana leaves is one of preferable quality traits in marketing for growers, retailers and consumers. Several compounds, like ascorbic acid, benzyl amino purine have been reported to prolong the shelf-life of banana leaves. Thus, the experiment was conducted at Horticultural Research Station, Kovvur during 2021-22 to study the effect of pre-treatments on the shelf life of banana leaves with factorial concept. Two factors involved are cultivars and pre-treatments. Cultivars include C1: Karpura Chakkerakeli, C2: Grand Naine and pre-treatments comprised of D1: BAP@25ppm, D2: Ascorbic acid @ 0.5%, D3: Water, D4: Control (Without pre-treatment). Banana cultivar Grand Naine recorded minimum physiological loss in weight (20.64%), yellowing score (4.47) and maximum freshness score (2.43), shelf life (5.83) compared to Karpura Chakkerakeli. Among the pre-treatments, ascorbic acid @ 0.5% recorded minimum physiological loss in weight (16.26%), yellowing score (4.47) and maximum freshness score (2.50), shelf life (5.17), over the other pre-treatments on 7thday. The results showed that banana leaves treated with ascorbic acid @ 0.5%inbanana cultivar Grand Naine suitable for long distance transport with better shelf life.','Banana leaves, pre-treatment, Ascorbic acid, Shelf life, Grand Naine','It could be inferred that banana leaves treated with ascorbic acid @0.5% prolong the shelf life by 5.17 days over the leaves without any pre-treatment (4.33 days). Among the cultivars, Grand Naine recorded highest shelf life of 5.17 days over Karpura Chakkerakeli with 4.75 days shelf life.','-','Kiranmayi B., Naga Lakshmi R., Ramanandam G., Madhavi M. and Paratapara Rao M. (2022). Effect of Pre-Treatments on the Shelf Life of Banana Leaves. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 14(4): 657-663.'),(5679,'146','Physiobiochemical characterization of Wheat (Triticum aestimum) under the Enfluence of Salinity Stress','Jadhav U.P., Folane J.N. and Etther Y.B.','118 Physiobiochemical characterization of Wheat _Triticum aestimum_ under the Enfluence of Salinity Stress Etther YB.pdf','',1,'A laboratory experiment was conducted to evaluate the cultivated wheat genotypes for tolerance to salinity by giving NaCl stress with concentration 50mM, 100mM, 150mM, 200mM, 250mM. During experiment observation were recorded for various biochemical and physiological parameters of the wheat varieties. According to increasing salt stress percent germination and seedling weight were decreased (except Lok-1 at 150 mM). Overall, with increased concentration of salinity stress reduction in germination percentage, shoot and root length, seedling weight were observed. Proline content was decreased during stress condition induces by NaCl. The highest proline concentration 5.10 µg/ml (50mM) and lowest 2.5 µg/ml (100mM) in Lok 1 and Ajeet 106 were recorded.','Salt stress, NaCl, Biochemical, Proline, Physiological, Germination','The results of study showed that there was considerable difference between most differential factor is the enzyme activity, carbohydrate, proline, chlorophyll content and physiological damage. This experiment indicates the difference between varieties is adequately depend on the salt stress condition.\r\n Based upon the observed physiological and biochemical data for the wheat varieties salinity tolerance was found in the order Lok 1 > GW 496 >Ajeet 106 >Ajeet 102 >Kedar. A significant correlation was seen among the studied parameters with increasing salinity levels.\r\nThe main aim of this study is in plant breeding strategies for developing new genotypes with increased yield upon salt stress. Plant breeder may focus on selecting plants with high antioxidant activity, except plants able to accumulate more salt.\r\n','-','Jadhav U.P., Folane J.N. and Etther Y.B. (2022). Physiobiochemical characterization of Wheat (Triticum aestimum) under the Enfluence of Salinity Stress. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 14(4): 664-669.'),(5680,'146','The Physiological Response and Health Attributes of Crossbred Calves Fed Conventional Feeding System and Total Mixed Ration with different Levels of Concentrate and Roughage','Poojan H. Pandya, Jigar H. Patel, Pravin M. Lunagariya, Palak P. Vaidh, N. Sharma, Mahesh M. Chaudhary and Dilip C. Patel','119 The Physiological Response and Health Attributes of Crossbred Calves Fed Conventional Feeding System and Total Mixed Ration with different Levels of Concentrate and Roughage Pravin M. Lunagariya.pdf','',1,'The feeding of dairy calves for higher growth with the economy is challenging for the dairy farmer. Two feeding systems-conventional and total mixed ration (TMR) available, for improving growth and in the TMR system again level of concentrate and roughage needs optimization. The experiment was conducted to evaluate the effect of different levels of concentrate and roughage in a total mixed ration on physiological response and health attributes in crossbred calves. Twenty-four crossbred calves with identical body weights were randomly divided into four treatment groups, each with six animals from the 8thto 91st days of age. Traditionally, the T1 group received concentrate and roughage separately, whereas the T2, T3, and T4 groups received concentrate and roughage in the following proportions of 85:15, 75:25, and 65:35, respectively. The physiological responses viz., rectal temperature, respiratory rate, and pulse rate were assessed at 7:30 am at weekly intervals. The blood was collected from the calves at the beginning, middle, and end of the experiment for the haematology (WBCs, RBCs, haemoglobin, and packed cell volume) and blood biochemical parameters (glucose, calcium, phosphorus, total protein, albumin, globulin, SGOT, SGPT). The faecal consistency of all the calves was observed daily and a score was given. The rectal temperature was significantly higher (P < 0.05) under the T1group as compared to other groups, but was within the normal range. The respiratory rate and pulse rate did not differ significantly among the treatments. The various haematological parameters like WBCs, RBCs, Hb, and PCV were not influenced significantly. The protein and energy nutrition were optimum indicated by levels of total protein, albumin, globulin, and albumin to globulin ratio and were not influenced by different concentrate to roughage ratios. The glucose level was linearly increased with an increased concentrate to roughage ratio. The SGOT and SGPT did not differ with various concentrate to roughage ratios but were found lowest in the conventional feeding system. The calcium and phosphorous did not differ between different treatments. It can be concluded from the finding that feeding of TMR with 85:15, 75:25 and 65:35 concentrate to roughage ratio was found safe for crossbred calves.','Crossbred calves, total mixed ration, concentrate: roughage ratio, physiological responses, haematology, serum biochemistry, faecal consistency','The feeding conventionally and TMR with different concentrate to roughage ratio did not have any adverse effect on physiological responses (rectal temperature, pulse rate, and respiratory rate), haemotological parameters (WBCs, RBCs, Hb, and PCV), protein and energy nutrition (serum total protein, albumin, globulin, glucose), liver function (SGOP, SGPT) and major minerals (serum calcium, phosphorus). It can be concluded that feeding of TMR with 85:15, 75:25 and 65:35 concentrate to roughage ratio found safe to crossbred calves.','-','Poojan H. Pandya, Jigar H. Patel, Pravin M. Lunagariya, Palak P. Vaidh, N. Sharma, Mahesh M. Chaudhary and Dilip C. Patel (2022). The Physiological Response and Health Attributes of Crossbred Calves Fed Conventional Feeding System and Total Mixed Ration with different Levels of Concentrate and Roughage. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 14(4a): 670-674.'),(5681,'146','Forms and Distribution of Potassium Fractions in different Production Systems of Kalyana Karnataka Region','Laalithya, M.S., K. Narayan Rao, H. Veeresh, Rajesh, N.L. and R.V. Beladhadi','120 Forms and Distribution of Potassium Fractions in different Production Systems of Kalyana Karnataka Region Laalithya M.pdf','',1,'A study was conducted to evaluate the forms and distribution of potassium fractions in different production systems. Sixty representative soil samples were collected from different production systems viz., Bajra-Groundnut and Pigeonpea crop under natural farming, Maize under organic farming, Paddy-Paddy under conventional and Pigeonpea under conventional farming and soils from currently uncultivated site at 0-15 cm and 15-30 cm soil depth. Results revealed that in all the production systems Water-soluble K and Exchangeable K were highest in surface soils and Non exchangeable K, Lattice K and Total K were highest in the subsurface soils. Among different production systems all potassium fraction were high in organic farming system and compare to all potassium fractions, Lattice K contributed more towards Total K and Water-soluble K contributed less in both surface and subsurface soils of all production systems. ','Production systems, Water-soluble K, Exchangeable K, Non exchangeable K, Lattice K and Total K.','In general, the concentration of potassium in soil followed its sequence of total K > lattice K > non-exchangeable K > exchangeable K > water soluble K irrespective of production systems. Among different production systems, organic farming system with maize cropping pattern was found to be high in all the potassium fractions and natural farming system with pigeonpea cropping pattern was found to be less in all potassium fractions. Among the various potassium fractions, plants uptake mainly the water soluble potassium fraction and the crop yield was found to be more influenced by water soluble potassium fraction which was followed by exchangeable potassium fraction. ','-','Laalithya, M.S., K. Narayan Rao, H. Veeresh, Rajesh, N.L. and R.V. Beladhadi (2022). Forms and Distribution of Potassium Fractions in different Production Systems of Kalyana Karnatka Region. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 14(4): 675-683.'),(5682,'146','Evaluation of Cowpea Genotypes for Quantitative, Yield, Chlorophyll and NDVI status at Eastern Dry Zone of Karnataka','Poornima, R., Shyamalamma, S., Hanumanthappa, D.C., Krishna, T.V., Mohan Chavan and Nagesha, N.','121 Evaluation of Cowpea Genotypes for QuantitativeT, Yield, Chlorophyll and NDVI status at Eastern Dry Zone of Karnataka Hanumanthappa D.pdf','',1,'Cowpea is one of the important legume crop having higher amounts of proteins, calories, minerals and vitamins. Currently cultivating varieties are less productive in tropics and sub tropics. The development and use of potential cultivars offer a simple and cost effective method to produce higher yield with less inputs. Hence, field experiment on cowpea genotypes for growth, yield, chlorophyll and NDVI status was carried out at eastern dry zone of Karnataka, ZARS, University of Agricultural Sciences, GKVK, Bangalore, INDIA from July 2021 to November 2021. There were 55 cowpea genotypes including five checks were evaluated in randomized complete block design with three replications. The results of the field experiment showed that, significant differences among all the cowpea genotypes for all the quantitative traits, yield parameters, Chlorophyll and NDVI status. The grain yield was ranged from 737 to 2650 kgha-1. Significantly higher grain yield was recorded by IC-219489 (2650 kg ha-1) over other genotypes and which was on par with C-152, IC-402175, NBC-42, KBC-2, IC-402135, IC-462099 and IC-422174 (2544, 2507, 2458, 2409, 2286, 2208 and 2189 kg ha-1, respectively) genotypes. Higher yield of IC-219489 genotype was mainly due to production of more trifoliate leaves (38), more SPAD chlorophyll content (50.9 and 79.67 at 30 and 60 days after sowing, respectively) and NDVI (0.69 and 0.74 at 30 and 60 days after sowing, respectively) which were helped in accumulating more solar energy in terms of higher seed weight (22.09 g plant-1) and 100 seed weight (14.25 g). ','Cowpea genotypes, NDVI, quantitative traits, SPAD Chlorophyll','It could be concluded that IC-219489 genotype found to be the better to get higher grain yield (2650 kg ha-1) with higher SPAD chlorophyll values and NDVI values and next best genotypes for higher yield are C-152, IC-402175, NBC-42, KBC-2, IC-402135, IC-462099. ','-','Poornima, R., Shyamalamma, S., Hanumanthappa, D.C., Krishna, T.V., Mohan Chavan and Nagesha, N. (2022). Evaluation of cowpea genotypes for quantitative traits, yield, chlorophyll and NDVI status at eastern dry zone of Karnataka. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 14(4): 684-691.'),(5683,'146','Design and Development of Cutting Unit for the Banana Pseudo Stem by using Power Screw Mechanism','Shubham Pandey, R. K. Naik and Kishan Kumar Patel','122 Design and Development of Cutting Unit for the Banana Pseudo Stem by using Power Screw Mechanism Shubham Pandey.pdf','',1,'The cutting action of banana pseudo stem by manual feeding is laborious, time consuming, un-economic as well as risky for the operators. Therefore, an attempt has been taken towards the automation of feeding action of banana pseudo stem to cut them by using rotary action of the blade. The experiment was conducted to design and development of cutting unit of banana pseudo stem in equal proportion on the basis of physical properties of banana pseudo stem. In this research, the feeding action of banana pseudo stem was done by power screw mechanism using mechanical arrangement and forward backward switch. This mechanism consists of lead screw, bearing, lead screw block and assembly, screw driving mechanism and supporting structure. The rotary cutting blade mounted on the rotor cuts the banana pseudo stem in two equal parts as it was feed by power screw mechanism.','Cutting unit, banana pseudo stem, lead screw, bearing, forward-backward switch, rotary blade','The cutting unit of banana pseudo stem were designed and developed successfully at Dept. of Farm Machinery and Power Engineering, SVCAET and RS, IGKV, Raipur. The design and development of power screw mechanism for feeding of pseudo stem to the rotary cutter was completed and it is safe to be implementing in machine for feeding of pseudo stem. It saves the time of cutting and also money for the cutting of banana pseudo stem.','-','Pandey, S., Naik, R. K. and Patel, K. K. (2022). Design and Development of Cutting Unit for the Banana Pseudo Stem by using Power Screw Mechanism. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 14(4): 692-697.'),(5684,'146','Influence of Bio-stimulants on the Quality Attributes of Mango (Mangifera indica L.) cv. Mallika under Central Dry Zone of Karnataka ','Arpitha S., Madaiah D., Dinesh Kumar M., Sridhar R. and Sudharani N.','123 Influence of Bio-stimulants on the Quality Attributes of Mango _Mangifera indica L._ cv. Mallika under Central Dry Zone of Karnataka Madaiah D.pdf','',1,'Poor quality fruit is one of the major constraint in Mango production. Since, bio-stimulants has a role in improving quality of fruits, a field experiment was carried out in ZAHRS, Hiriyur, during the year 2021-22. The experiment was laid out in RCBD comprising of nine treatments viz., T1 – control, T2 - jasmonic acid (100 µM), T3 - jasmonic acid (150 µM), T4 - salicylic acid (100 ppm), T5 - salicylic acid (150 ppm), T6 - brassinosteroid (0.40 ppm), T7 - brassinosteroid (0.60 ppm), T8- triacontanol (7.5 ppm) and T9 - triacontanol (10.0 ppm) with four replications, sprayed at an interval of 70 and 90 days after anthesis. Among the treatments, T5 - salicylic acid (150 ppm) recorded maximum TSS (22.86 ºB), reducing sugars (6.29%), total sugars (15.72%), sugar-acid ratio (44.62), total carotenoids and flavonoids (5.56 mg/100g and 30.63 mg QE/100 g, respectively), proline content (23.42 µg/g of fw), total antioxidant activity (42.10%), shelf life (14.75 days) and highest score for organoleptic evaluation with minimum titratable acidity (0.35%) and moisture content (76.58%).','Mango, Mallika, bio-stimulants, quality attributes','Based on the above results, it can be concluded that salicylic acid @ 150 µM showed its potentiality in improving quality by recording maximum TSS, reducing non-reducing and total sugars, sugar-acid ratio, total carotenoids and flavonoids, proline, total antioxidant activity, shelf life with minimum acidity and physiological loss in weight in mango cv. Mallika under central dry zone of Karnataka sprayed at an interval of 70 and 90 days after anthesis. ','-','Arpitha S., Madaiah D., Dinesh Kumar M., Sridhar R. and Sudharani N. (2022). Influence of Bio-stimulants on the Quality Attributes of Mango (Mangifera indica L.) cv. Mallika under Central Dry Zone of Karnataka. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 14(4): 698-703.'),(5685,'146','Assessment of Biochemical Traits and Minerals Status of Oat (Avena sativa L.) Genotypes','Mrunal Ghogare, R.K. Samaiya, Anubha Upadhyay, Sachin Nagre, Preeti Sagar Nayak and Yogendra Singh','124 Assessment of Biochemical Traits and Minerals Status of Oat _Avena sativa L._ Genotypes Mrunal Ghogare.pdf','',1,'The present investigation was carried out during the Rabi season in Avena sativa L. in 2020-21 at coordinated Livestock Farm, All India Coordinated Research Project on Forage Crop (AICRP), Department of Agronomy, Jawaharlal Nehru Krishi Vishwa Vidyalaya, Jabalpur. This study aimed to investigate the biochemical traits and minerals composition of thirty genotypes. Results showed significant (p<0.05) differences in biochemical and minerals compositions among studied genotypes. Oat grain constituents ranged between 8.93-13.43% protein, 4.21-6.90% fat, 2.81-5.97% Ash, 57.50-66.85% total carbohydrate and 8.29-10.55% crude fiber. Iron, zinc, manganese, potassium and sodium contents were 2.38-4.65mg/100g, 1.30-3.69mg/100g, 2.69-4.49mg/100g, 234.88-347.22mg/100g and 0.85-1.85mg/100g respectively. These results could be useful for improving value-additional of oat food products.','Oat, biochemical parameters, minerals composition','In conclusions, cultivated oat genotypes grown together in the normal environmental conditions showed significant genetic variation in the nutritional content of the oat grain, including protein, fat, crude fiber, carbohydrate, ash and minerals (Fe, Zn, Mn, K, Na). The biochemical analysis indicated that among genotypes recorded the maximum protein G15 (13.43 %), total carbohydrate G18 (66.85 %), fat G10 (6.90 %), crude fiber G19 (10.79%), ash G19 (5.97%) in all the genotypes. In Minerals, higher value of iron G10 (4.65 mg/100g), zinc G16 (3.69 mg/100g), manganese G16 (4.49 mg/100g), potassium G10 (358.85 mg/100g), sodium G15 (1.85 mg/100g) in all oat genotypes. The present research was designed to explore the oat as economical raw material for nutraceutical, food and animal feed industry. The developed oat genotypes need to be considered for further expansion and commercialization in other regions of the country or other developing countries to contribute for ensuring food and nutritional security.','-','Mrunal Ghogare, R.K. Samaiya, Anubha Upadhyay, Sachin Nagre, Preeti Sagar Nayak and Yogendra Singh (2022). Assessment of Biochemical Traits and Minerals Status of Oat (Avena sativa L.) Genotypes. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 14(4): 704-709.'),(5686,'146','Impact of Thermotherapy on the Seed Quality of Pusa Basmati 1121','S. Dilip Kumar Reddy, Kamal Khilari, Ramji Singh, Ramesh Singh, Hem Singh and M. K. Yadav','125 Impact of Thermotherapy on the Seed Quality of Pusa Basmati 1121 S. DILIP KUMAR REDDY.pdf','',1,'Nearly half of world population consumes rice as the principal food crop. Rice is affected by several seed borne pathogens. Seed treatment with chemical will pose adverse effects on the environment. The excessive use of fungicides has raised concerns such as a decrease in the fungicide sensitivity of the pathogens. For this reason, alternative methods are being investigated to control the disease. To reduce the inoculum level of seedborne pathogens in rice seeds and to improve the germination speed of the seed. Hot water treatment is one of the non chemical method can be used as an alternative strategy to control seedborne pathogens of rice but it may adversely affect germination and seedling vigour. Hence, we tested the thermotherapy at different temperatures and different times of exposures. The parameters such as germination percentage, plumule length, radicle length, total seedling length and seed vigour were recorded. Hot water treatment at 55°C for 15 minutes was physiologically safe for rice seed. The hot water treatment at 65°C for 20 minutes consistently decreased seed quality in all parameters and is considered an unsafe treatment for rice variety.','Hot water treatment, seed borne pathogens, seed germination, seed vigour','Thermotherapy is an alternative method to prevent the seed borne pathogens of rice. The treatment at 55°C and with an exposure time 15 minutes showed better performance in germination percentage and seed vigour index. The treatment at 60°C and with an exposure time 20 minutes decreased the seed germination and seed vigour index and found inferior among all the treatments.','-','S. Dilip Kumar Reddy, Kamal Khilari, Ramji Singh, Ramesh Singh, Hem Singh and M. K. Yadav (2022). Impact of Thermotherapy on the Seed Quality of Pusa Basmati 1121. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 14(4): 710-714.'),(5687,'146','Carbon Crediting in Agriculture- A Means to Achieve India’s Climate Change Commitments','Sheri Vaishnav, Sai Suvidh, M., Yakadri, M. and Ramulu, V.','126 Carbon Crediting in Agriculture- A Means to Achieve India’s Climate Change Commitments SHERI VAISHNAV.pdf','',1,'Greenhouse gases (GHGs) from human activities including agriculture are the most significant driver of observed climate change since the mid-20th century. Agriculture is not only the emitter but also the sufferer of climate change. There is an immediate need to search for the ways to reduces GHG emissions from agriculture as it is the source of livelihood to 2/3rd of employed class in country. Carbon crediting a latest strategy emerging across the globe may become one of the tools that minimises adverse environmental impact in agriculture. Carbon crediting in agriculture will not only act as an additional source of income at farmers level but it also contributes to nations commitment at COP-26 for reducing emissions by 2030. Certain climate smart agricultural practices like reduced tillage, no tillage and alternate cultivation systems like dry direct seeded rice (DDSR), zero till planting and laser land levelling were already proved to have great potential in fixing atmospheric carbon (C) and in increasing soil carbon status. On the other side the same systems are also responsible for reducing the consumption of fossil fuels & agro-chemicals to sustain farming systems in a profitable path.','Greenhouse gases (GHGs), agriculture, environment, carbon crediting','Certain conventional agricultural practices like puddling, intensive cultivation, etc., are responsible for elevated GHG emissions in the atmosphere. Encouraging farmers to adopt climate smart cultivation practices which enriches soil organic carbon status through fixing atmospheric CO2 are valued through carbon crediting system. Carbon crediting is relatively a new concept with capacity to generate additional income to farmers can be used as a means to lessen the load of GHGs on environment and improve farmers income. Though this system is already popular in developed countries like United States of America it has equal importance and potential under Indian context too for which positive and immediate legislative and scientific backup is essential.','-','Sheri Vaishnav, Sai Suvidh, M., Yakadri, M. and Ramulu, V. (2022). Carbon Crediting in Agriculture- A Means to Achieve India’s Climate Change Commitments. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 14(4): 715-719.'),(5688,'146','In vitro Evaluation of Plant Extracts and Fungicides against Colletotrichum capsici causing Anthracnose Disease of Chilli','Aman Chauhan and Vijay Kumar Yadav','127 In vitro Evaluation of Plant Extracts and Fungicides against Colletotrichum capsici causing Anthracnose Disease of Chilli Aman Chauhan.pdf','',1,'Anthracnose disease of chilli is one of the major disease of chilli and responsible for causing pre-harvest and post-harvest losses to the produce. Limited availability of the resistant cultivars make the farmers to rely on fungicidal use to control the disease. The present investigation was carried out with an aim to develop some eco-friendly control measures and judicious use of fertilizers. Eight plant extracts viz. garlic (Allium sativum), marigold (Tagetes sp.), neem (Azadirachta indica), ginger (Zingiber officinale), milk weed (Calotropis sp.), ashwagandha (Withania somnifera), lantana (Lantana camara) and tulsi (Ocimum tenuiflorum) were evaluated by poisoned food technique at three different concentrations (5, 10, 20 per cent). Also, eight fungicides viz. Difenoconazole, Azoxystrobin, Propiconazole, Copper Oxychloride, Hexaconazole, Mancozeb, Carbendazime + Mancozeb and Pyraclostrobin + Epoxiconazole were evaluated under in vitro conditions at four concentrations (10, 25, 50, 100 ppm). Among all plant extracts neem at 20% was found to be the most effective with maximum growth inhibition (43.37%). Among fungicides Propiconazole and Pyraclostrobin + Epoxiconazole at 100ppm showed the maximum per cent growth inhibition of 100 per cent followed by Difenoconazole with growth inhibition of 87.08 per cent.','C. capsici, dual culture, botanicals, fungicides','Among eight selected fungicides Propiconazole 25% EC was found to be the most effective showing complete inhibition in the mycelia growth of C. capsici. Neem leaf extract at 20 % concentration under in vitro condition was found very promising in inhibiting the growth of pathogen as it caused 43.37 per cent growth inhibition of C. capsici.','-','Aman Chauhan and Vijay Kumar Yadav (2022). In vitro Evaluation of Plant Extracts and Fungicides against Colletotrichum capsici causing Anthracnose Disease of Chilli. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 14(4): 720-725.'),(5689,'132','Some Observations on Migration of Red-Throated Thrush Turdus ruficollis through Mishmi Hills, Arunachal Pradesh, India','Anwaruddin Choudhury','7_JNBR_11_1_2022.pdf','',1,'-','-','-','-','Choudhury A U. 2022. Some observations on migration of red-throated thrush Turdus ruficollis through Mishmi Hills, Arunachal Pradesh, India. J New Biol Rep 11 (1): 24 – 26.'),(5690,'147','Examining the general and specific combining ability by line × tester analysis for yield and quality attributes in Tomato (Solanum lycopersicum L.)','Prachi Pattnaik, Anand Kumar Singh, Bajrang Kumar, Diksha Mishra, Binod Kumar Singh and Akhilesh Kumar Pal','1 Examining the general and specific combining ability by line × tester analysis for yield and quality attributes in tomato _Solanum lycopersicum L._ Prachi Pattnaik.pdf','',1,'Tomato being one of the popular nutritious vegetable, it’s low productivity and quality can affect producers as well as consumers. To cope up with the present day need, there is need for continuous evaluation of potential parents and hybrids with improved quality and yield traits. Thus the present investigation was conducted at Vegetable Research Farm, Department of Horticulture, Institute of Agricultural Sciences, BHU, Varanasi during Rabi season of 2017-18 and 2018-19 to analyze the general and specific combining ability of eleven genotypes of tomato (Solanum lycopersicum L.) using Line × Tester analysis. The experimental material was evaluated in RBD with three replications under study. Combining ability analysis is a potential tool for the evaluation of inbreds in terms of their genetic value. The information pertaining to GCA and SCA effect thus help for identifying suitable parents as well as for identifying desirable cross combinations respectively for breeding program. It was revealed from the analysis that the mean sum of squares due to Line × Tester were found significant for all traits excluding days to 50 % flowering indicating the presence of variability for exploitation for remaining traits under study. In the present investigation for early flowering, parental genotypes CO-3 (-1.96) followed by VRT-101-A (-1.85) and Angha (-1.29) were noted to be good general combiner showing maximum significant values of GCA in the desirable direction. Among the lines, CTS-07 was found to be good general combiner for days to 50 % flowering, number of primary branches per plant, fruit length, fruit width, average fruit weight, fruit yield qper hectare, number of seeds per fruit and number of locules per fruit. Only one cross CTS-07 × Arka Abha showed significantly negative SCA effect and thus was reported to have best specific combining ability for days to 50 % flowering. Similarly for total fruit yield, parent Angha, Solan Vajra and CTS-07 were found to be good general combiners exhibiting higher values for positive and significant GCA to the extent of 41.16, 39.12 and 37.93 respectively.','Tomato, Line × Tester, Parents, General combiner, Breeding, Fruit yield','These information pertaining to GCA and SCA effect of different parameters related to yield and quality are important tool for identifying suitable parents to be used in breeding program as well as for identifying highly desirable cross combinations respectively. Among the lines, CTS-07 was found to be good general combiner for days to 50 % flowering, number of primary branches per plant, fruit length, fruit width, average fruit weight, fruit yield per plant, fruit yield per hectare, number of seeds per fruit and number of locules per fruit. Following CTS-07, Angha was reported to be a good general combiner for traits like fruit length, fruit yield per plant, number of locules and ascorbic acid content. Similarly, the hybrid Angha × Pusa-120 was found to be good specific combiner for both fruit length and fruit width; cross Angha × Pant T-5 for number of primary branches per plant and fruit yield per plant; hybrid Solan Vajra × Pant T-5 for plant height and pericarp thickness. Thus, the obtained results can help in deciding the suitable parents as well as suitable crosses for a particular trait that can be further utilized in breeding programmes for development of good hybrids in tomato. ','-','Prachi Pattnaik, Anand Kumar Singh, Bajrang Kumar, Diksha Mishra, Binod Kumar Singh and Akhilesh Kumar Pal (2022). Examining the general and specific combining ability by line × tester analysis for yield and quality attributes in tomato (Solanum lycopersicum L.). Biological Forum – An International Journal, 14(4a): 01-09.'),(5691,'147','Impact of tillage practices and planters on productivity, soil parameters, nutrient uptake and economics in rabi maize (Zea mays L.) ','P. Vijaya, D. Sreelatha, B. Padmaja, P. Rajaiah and M. Yakadri','2 Impact of tillage practices and planters on productivity, soil parameters, nutrient uptake and economics in rabi maize _Zea mays L._ P. Vijaya.pdf','',1,'As the world’s population grows, agriculture is facing an increasing demand for productivity, efficiency, and sustainability to ensure food security. It is the need of the hour and a challenge to change the agricultural strategy for increasing crop yields through appropriate mechanization to meet the food grain requirement of the ever increasing population. High labor demands in peak period of each operation adversely affect the timeliness of operations there by reducing the crop yield. In any agricultural operation, timeliness of operations is one of most important factors which can only be achieved if an appropriate machine is engaged. Seed planting is a major step in crop production stages that requires timeliness of operation. It is tedious, less efficient and time-consuming especially when done manually. Modernization of agriculture necessitates appropriate machinery for enhancing resource use efficiency and productivity in agriculture especially the more precise the planting operation, the better the quality and quantity of crop harvested. Further, conservation agriculture holds tremendous potential for all sizes of farms and agro-ecological systems, but its adoption is perhaps most urgently required by small holder farmers, especially those facing acute shortage of labour. Further, recycling of crop-residues in the soil is a promising option for replenishing soil fertility, improving physico-chemical properties, and enhancing/sustaining crop yield. In this regard, present investigation was set to study the Impact of tillage practices and planters on productivity, soil parameters, nutrient uptake and economics in rabi maize (Zea mays L.). The experiment was carried out at Maize Research Centre, Agricultural Research Institute, Rajendranagar, Hyderabad, Telangana State in spilt plot design with 3 main treatments of tillage practices viz., conventional, reduced and zero-tillage and 5 sub treatments of different planting options of planters viz., multi-crop vacuum planter, mechanical planter, seed-cum-fertilizer drill and convention planting options of bullock drawn plough and manual sowing and replicated thrice in clay loam soils during rabi 2021-22. The study revealed that, significantly higher productivity and nutrient uptake was observed in rabi maize sown with multi-crop vacuum planter under conventional tillage practice rather than reduced and zero-tillage practices. Zero-tillage practice shown promise for better soil aggregation and organic carbon content with reduced energy inputs. In general, mechanical methods of sowing incurred lower costs than conventional methods. Over all, higher B:C ratio recorded with conventional tillage practice compared to reduced and zero-tillage treatments. ','Multi-crop vacuum planter, soil penetration resistance, organic carbon, bullock drawn plough, conventional tillage, zero tillage','Based on the present investigation, it can be concluded that maize sown with multi-crop vacuum planter under conventional tillage realized significantly higher grain yield, nutrient uptake and benefit cost ratio. Further, Zero-tillage resulted in higher organic carbon content, better aggregation, C content and N availability in soil, and reduced the energy inputs.','-','P. Vijaya, D. Sreelatha, B. Padmaja, P. Rajaiah and M. Yakadri (2022). Impact of tillage practices and planters on productivity, soil parameters, nutrient uptake and economics in rabi maize (Zea mays L.). Biological Forum – An International Journal, 14(4a): 10-16.'),(5692,'147','Influence of establishment methods, water and nutrient management practices on physiological traits and yield attributes of Wet-DSR and Transplanted rice','Madhurya D., Madhavilata. A., Neelima.T.L., Mahender Kumar R., Madhavi A., Meena A. and Yakadri M.','3 Influence of establishment methods, water and nutrient management practices on physiological traits and yield attributes of Wet-DSR and Transplanted rice Madhurya D.pdf','',1,'Rice is a widely cultivated cereal crop that is traditionally grown in a flooded system under transplanted conditions due to its semi aquatic nature. Planting methods, water and nutrient management has a significant effect on growth and yield of crop. Crop growth rate was influenced by intercepted radiation and provide base for assimilation of photosynthates. However, water scarcity and rising labor costs prompt the search for alternative rice cultivation methods. Augmentation of crop growth and yield requires appropriate management practices. This document discusses the best alternatives discovered during the study conducted during rabi 2020-21 and 2021-22 at College Farm, PJTSAU. Hyderabad. The experiment is replicated thrice with establishment and water management methods, as main plots and nutrient management practices, in a strip plot design. Direct seeded rice with alternate wetting and drying (AWD) produced a higher yield (5530 kg ha-1) and yield attributes. Crop growth rate, net assimilation rate, and photo synthetically active radiation were found to be higher in AWD-sown direct seeded rice. Among the nutrient management practices evaluated, poultry manure applied plot yielded higher yields and supported the improvement of physiological characteristics.','Drum seeder, AWD, Poultry manure, CGR, NAR and PAR','The results of the study showed that direct seeded rice with AWD has supported better crop growth, intercepted higher PAR due to maintaining optimum plant geometry, enhanced NAR, accumulated more photosynthates, improved all yield attributing characters, and reported a 9% increase in the yield over transplanted rice. Among the nutrient management practices, substitution of 25% RDN with poultry manure improved grain yield by 11.2% than 100% RDN.','-','Madhurya D., Madhavilata. A., Neelima.T.L., Mahender Kumar R., Madhavi A., Meena A. and Yakadri M. (2022). Influence of establishment methods, water and nutrient management practices on physiological traits and yield attributes of Wet-DSR and Transplanted rice. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 14(4a): 17-22.'),(5693,'147','The Influence of Biofertilizers on Growth and Yield of Rice (Oryza sativa L.)','E.A. Amrutha, R.V. Manju, M.M. Viji, Roy Stephen, Jacob John, Swapna Alex and A.V. Meera','4 The Influence of Biofertilizers on Growth and Yield of Rice _Oryza sativa L._ E. A Amrutha.pdf','',1,'Over half of the world\'s population consumes rice as a staple food. Sustainable rice (Oryza sativa L.) production is required to feed the growing population. Therefore, farmers are force to apply chemical fertilizers to increase rice sustainable rice production. It is not affordable for poor farmers due to the high market costs of chemical fertilizer. Alternative crop and resource management strategies, in addition to chemical fertilizer, are required to sustain crop productivity and profitability. A high output from agricultural systems is required for sustainable agriculture and food security. These systems must be economically viable, environmentally responsible, and socially acceptable. In this case, biofertilizers could be a novel approach for sustainable rice production, low cost, and pollution reduction. Crop productivity dramatically benefits from the use of biofertilizers. This study was done to find out how biofertilizers will help maximize rice yield. The treatments were T1: POP, KAU + Azolla, T2: POP, KAU + AMF (Arbuscular Mycorrhizal Fungi), T3: POP, KAU + PGPR Mix I (Plant Growth Promoting Rhizobacteria Mix 1), T4: POP, KAU + PSB (Phosphorus solubilizing bacteria), T5: POP, KAU + KSB (Potassium solubilizing bacteria), T6: T 1 + AMF, T7: T 1 + PGPR Mix I, T8: T 1 + PSB, T9: T 1 + KSB, T10: POP, KAU (Control) and T11: ZnSO4 spray. Applying different bio-fertilizers increased plant height, number of tillers per plant, root length, number of grains per panicle, 1000 grain weight, and grain yield. When compared to the control, the incorporation of Azolla and AMF, along with POPand KAU recommendations (T6), recorded the highest values in terms of plant height (90.72 cm), number of tillers (23.56), and root length (35.62 cm). T6 (POP, KAU + Azolla + AMF) had the highest number of grains per panicle (155.37), 1000 grain weight (24.16 g), and grain yield (3718.52Kg per ha (32.84%) when compared to the control. Results revealed the greater scope of biofertilizers application for achieving greater yield in rice variety Uma. We hope that this finding is beneficial for farmers to improve rice production. ','Rice, Bio-fertilizers, Growth parameters, Yield parameters','These results highlights the importance of incorporation of AMF in rice- production systems. The field performances of rice variety Uma was improved to a great extent under the application of biofertilizer in addition to chemical fertilizers. This was reflected in the significant enhancement in growth and yield parameters. Growth parameters and yield parameters were raised by using biofertilizers in addition to chemical fertilizers. Azolla and AMF incorporation with POP recommendation (T6) revealed maximum values for growth and yield parameters. Azolla + AMF + KAU POP greatly enhanced the plant\'s growth characteristics, including height (90.72 cm), tiller count (23.56), and root length (35.62 cm). T6: T 1 + AMF + KAU POP biofertilizer combination enhanced the number of grains per panicle (155.37), 1000 grain weight (24.91 g), and grain production (3718.52Kg/ha). When Azolla and AMF with POP recommendations (T6), there was a 32.84% increase in yield compared to control. With its multifaceted potential, AMF and azolla can be used as one of the tools for sustainable rice production. This study will help to draw attention to natural AMF colonization and application of azolla in rice-growing areas. This will also facilitate designing future rice production technologies with the incorporation of biofertilizers and exploitation of symbiosis in the field of agriculture.','-','E.A. Amrutha, R.V. Manju, M.M. Viji, Roy Stephen, Jacob John, Swapna Alex and A.V. Meera (2022). The Influence of Biofertilizers on Growth and Yield of Rice (Oryza sativa L.). Biological Forum – An International Journal, 14(4a): 23-28.'),(5694,'147','Characterization of Bacillus spp. Isolated from different Rhizosphere Soils','Veerathilagam D., Kannan R., Parthiban V.K., Vincent S. and Bhuvaneswari K.','5 Characterization of Bacillus spp. Isolated from different Rhizosphere Soils Veerathilagam D.pdf','',1,'In agriculture, Bacillus species are widely used to stimulate plant growth and to protect the plants from pathogens and other environmental stresses. In this present study, six Bacillus spp. were isolated from the rhizosphere soil of grapes and tomato and identified based on the morphological and biochemical features such as, Starch hydrolysis, Catalase test, Voges – Prokaeur test, Methyl red test, Gelatin hydrolysis test and KOH test and confirmed through Molecular characterization by using universal primers such as 27F and 1492R and got the amplicon size of 1500bp. Moreover, the confirmation of Bacillus spp. is done byusing 16S rRNA sequencing. This made to understand the nature of the bacteria present in the soil microbial community.','Bacillus species, Biochemical tests, Characterization, Universal 27F and 1492 R','Bacillus spp. perform well in the rhizosphere and phylloplane through different mechanisms viz., competition for nutrient uptake from the soil and induction of plant defense response against the plant diseases. However, the applicability of Bacillus spp. was limited due to their inconsistent efficiency in disease reduction under different field conditions. Thus, better formulation strategies have to be developed for the bacterial biocontrol agent, Bacillus spp. to make them more durable with improved biocontrol efficacy.','-','Veerathilagam D., Kannan R., Parthiban V.K., Vincent S. and Bhuvaneswari K. (2022). Characterization of Bacillus spp. Isolated from different Rhizosphere Soils. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 14(4a): 29-32.'),(5695,'147','Assessment of the Technological Feasibility of Climate change Adaptation Strategies and Contingency Plans in Dryland Areas','H. Chandan Gowda and Rabindra Nath Padaria','6 Assessment of the Technological Feasibility of Climate change Adaptation Strategies and Contingency Plans in Dryland Areas H. Chandan Gowda.pdf','',1,'Drylands are particularly affected by climate change through changing rainfall patterns and land degradation, which reduces the ability of crops, livestock and people to cope with dryland conditions. The present study was conducted in Datia and Parbhani districts of Madhya Pradesh and Maharashtra state, respectively to assess the technological feasibility of climate change adaptation strategies and contingency plans. Sixty farmers from each district were personally interviewed using a pre-tested interview schedule. The feasibility indices were calculated using normalization, weightage and aggregation for all the recommended climate change adaptation technologies of the contingency plans for both the district. The results revealed that “Using different varieties (e.g. early maturing, drought-resistant) for early season drought” ranked first, while “Installation of insect traps and grow trap crops along the border to control pest population” ranked second and “Seed priming in water for 12- 15 hours in wheat, mustard and chickpea, if there is low rainfall” ranked third in Datia district. In case of Parbhani district.“If rain is delayed by 10-15 days Raise cotton seedlings in polythene bags and transplant when sufficient soil moisture is available. “Modifying planting, harvesting, and fertilizing practices for crops” and “Re-sowing of the crop if the plant population is less than 50per cent in Soybean. Pigeon pea and Black gram” was ranked first, second and third respectively.','Dryland, Contingency plan, Climate change adaptation, Normalization and Technological feasibility','The present study was conducted in Datia and Parbhani districts of Madhya Pradesh and Maharashtra state, respectively to assess the technological feasibility of climate change adaptation strategies and contingency plans. It was found that it is evident that “Using different varieties (e.g. early maturing, drought-resistant) for early season drought” ranked first, while “Installation of insect traps and grow trap crops along the border to control pest population” ranked second in case of Datia district. Whereas, “If rain is delayed by 10-15 days Raise cotton seedlings in polythene bags and transplant when sufficient soil moisture is available ranked first and” Summer deep ploughing” ranked last in case of Parbhani district. The recommended climate change adaptation technologies /strategies should be socially, economically and technically feasible for greater adoption by the farmers to combat drought. Similar kind of research studies can be conducted in different locations to provide effective and efficient adaptation strategies to changing climate scenario in agriculture. Through feasibility assessment studies and understanding the needs and problems of the farmers facing due to adverse climatic conditions, it will help the research and extension system to provide feasible technological options to the farmers for climate change adaptation. ','-','H. Chandan Gowda and Rabindra Nath Padaria (2022). Assessment of the Technological Feasibility of Climate change Adaptation Strategies and Contingency Plans in Dryland Areas. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 14(4a): 33-36.'),(5696,'147','Access and usage of ICTs among the Farmers of Bengaluru Rural and Chikkaballapura District of Karnataka','Narendra V.N., Satya Prakash and Ashok K. Singh','7 Access and usage of ICTs among the Farmers of Bengaluru Rural and Chikkaballapura District of Karnataka Naveendra VN.pdf','',1,'The purpose of this research is to determine the extent of ICT usage and access among farmers of Bengaluru Rural and Chikkaballapura districts of Karnataka. The ex-post facto research design has been used for the current study and samples have been collected by using both random and purposive sampling techniques. From each district 120 farmers were drawn as the sample size, making a total of 240. Most of the respondents from both districts were well aware of mentioned ICT tools but comparatively less in the case of the common service centres (CSCs). Ownership of ICT tools in both districts shows that cent per cent of the respondents possessed a mobile and nearly cent percent respondents possessed TV and subscribed for Internet services in their mobile. Mobile acts as a single source for the multi functions like audio, video, calling etc. Other ICT tools like TV, Radio, DVD/CD, and Telephone lost their importance. In both districts, the majority (98.34% in Bengaluru Rural and 80.33% in Chikkaballapura) of the respondents frequently access Mobile and TV and the majority (87.50% in Bengaluru Rural and 61.67% in Chikkaballapura) of the respondents never accessed Radio, DVD, and Personal Computers In both districts, the majority of respondents preferred and used print media like newspapers, magazines and posters which are published in the local language with very well understanding and none of them used e-journals and e-books. In the case of general access to various mobile applications, out of five applications which are mentioned in the current study the applications like Varuna Mitra, Meghasandesh and Sidilu apps are quite popular as compared to other applications . The most of the respondents from both districts responded as the electricity was the main energy source for operating ICT tools and only a meager per cent of them used solar as a source of energy for operating various ICT tools. The Affordability of ICT tools in both district found that almost all the respondents felt that they can easily affordable to all ICT tools other than personal computers and Internet services.','Access and Usage, Common Service Centre, ICTs, Mobile','The study\'s findings showed that mobile devices, followed by TV and the internet, had the highest levels of accessibility and usage. Compared to other ICTs, mobile phones and televisions were the two most frequently used ICT tools. The reason might be that mobile phones nowadays became more affordable because of multi companies are competing with each other to increase their sales and thus they were trying to provide more features in single mobile at very affordable price for middle-class people. In the case of TV nowadays its became a prestige matter for everyone to have a TV in their home this type of mindset of the people made them to had a TV in their home. Telecommunication wizard of India i.e. Jio-Reliance made the tele-revolution by offering its services (Data and Calling) free of cost and later on at a very minimal price which can be easily affordable by the common man. The majority of the respondents were using Varuna Mitra mobile application because of that it provides its services to framers via a Web portal, SMS and toll-free that too in the local language might be the reason for familiarity and famous in both districts. It was found that the government of India\'s plan to use ICT to deliver services to the general public—Common Service Centre, (CSC)—is not being fully implemented in both districts. This may be because people are unaware of CSCs, which are typically found at the Panchayat level, some distance from the farmer\'s village. This study suggests creating awareness of CSCs and, if possible, providing CSC services at least at the cluster level. Another suggestion is that since mobile phones and televisions are the two main ICT tools that are widely available in both districts. The extension agents and other organizations who wish to improve the livelihood conditions of the farmers by efficient use of ICTs to provide agro-advisory and new information.','-','Narendra V.N., Satya Prakash and Ashok K. Singh (2022). Access and usage of ICTs among the Farmers of Bengaluru Rural and Chikkaballapura District of Karnataka. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 14(4a): 37-43.'),(5697,'146','To Study the effect of Irrigation Levels and Nutrient on Production of Turmeric (Curcuma longa L.) under Drip Environment','Somdutt, S.K. Verma, Pojal Verma, Hemlata Rajwade, R.K. Besen and Geet Sharma','128 To Study the effect of Irrigation Levels and Nutrient on Production of Turmeric _Curcuma longa L._ under Drip Environment S.K. Verma.pdf','',1,'A present field investigation was entitled was conducted at the instructional farm of Barrister Thakur Chhedilal, College of Agriculture and Research Station, Bilaspur (C.G.) during kharif season 2021-22. The experimental treatment consists three drip irrigation levels at I1: 100 % PE, I2: 80 % PE, I3: 60 % PE and control plot (I4) with surface irrigation and same as three levels of nutrient management with F1: 100 % RDF through soil application, F2: 100 % RDF through water soluble fertilizer (WSF), F3: 75 % RDF through WSF and farmer control. The turmeric cultivar Narendra was used and each treatment was replicated thrice in strip plot design. A major problem associated with drip irrigation systems is the clogging of emitters, Clogging can reduce emission rates and cause poor uniformity of water application. Clogging also increases the maintenance costs, as it becomes necessary to check, repair or replace clogged emitters and other components. Chemical treatment and proper filtration of water was prevent or correct emitter clogging. \r\nThe results of experiment show pre harvest observation viz., plant height, number of leaves, dry matter production and crop growth rate and post-harvest observation viz., number of mother and finger rhizome, length and girth of mother and finger rhizomes, rhizome yield (t ha-1) and irrigation observation viz., water expense, water expense efficiency (WEE) and number of irrigations in turmeric. Under drip irrigation level treated with 100 % PE (I1) and fertigation level at 100 % RDF (F2) through water soluble fertilizer in turmeric were found significantly superior among entire treatments with regard of above specified character. Irrigation level I3 and nutrient management F1 observed significantly inferior among entire treatments.\r\n Drip irrigation scheduling with 100 % PE in every two days and WSF through drip irrigation with 100 % RDF, is recommended for obtain maximum turmeric production (25.10 t ha-1 and 25.88 t ha-1), maximum net returns (Rs 1079480 ha-1 and Rs 1116074 ha-1) and Benefit: cost ratio (6.15 and 6.27) together with WEE (72.31 Kg ha-mm-1) and 77.21 Kg ha-mm-1) in drip irrigation systems.\r\n','Drip, Fertigation, Irrigation, Turmeric','In the drip irrigation levels it was concluded that 100 % PE (I1) and 80 % PE (I2) found equally effective in terms of growth characters (plant height, number of leaves, dry matter production, crop growth rate) and yield parameter (number of mother and finger rhizome, weight of mother and finger rhizomes plant-1) and as compared to other drip irrigation and surface irrigation. In nutrient management, 100 % RDF through WSF was superior increase of growth characters (plant height, dry matter production, crop growth rate) and yield parameter (number of mother and finger rhizome, weight of mother and finger rhizomes plant-1). Drip irrigation level at 80 % pan evaporation (at alternate days) and nutrient management at 75 % RDF applied through water soluble fertilizer is recommended to achieve maximum turmeric yield 25.49 t ha-1, net return Rs 1097777 ha-1 and Benefit: cost ratio 5.67 and WEE 74.76 kg ha-mm-1, under drip irrigation.','-','Somdutt, S.K. Verma, Pojal Verma, Hemlata Rajwade, R.K. Besen and Geet Sharma (2022). To Study the Effect of Irrigation Levels and Nutrient on Production of Turmeric (Curcuma longa L.) under Drip Environment. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 14(4): 726-733.'),(5698,'146','A Comparative Study on Cost and Returns of Maize Cultivation in Jammu Region of J&K','Sunish Sharma, S.P. Singh, Maninder Singh and Ashish Verma','129 A Comparative Study on Cost and Returns of Maize Cultivation in Jammu Region of J&K Sunish Sharma.pdf','',1,'A study was conducted in Jammu region of J&K. Three districts namely Rajouri, Udhampur and Poonch were purposely selected for studying the Maize crop. The proposed study adopted Purposive Sampling technique for the selection of districts based on higher production of the crop under study. However the blocks, villages, producers and intermediaries were selected randomly. The study examined that the overall average total cost of Maize cultivation was calculated to be highest in Poonch district (Rs. 16484.00/acre) followed by Udhampur district (Rs. 15222.76/acre) and Rajouri district (Rs. 12590.00/acre) of Jammu region of J&K. The overall gross returns of the crop were found highest in Poonch district (Rs. 23328.00/acre) followed by Udhampur district (Rs. 21258.33/acre) & Rajouri district (Rs. 20181.00/acre) whereas the average net returns of the crop were found highest in Poonch district (Rs. 6833.00/acre) followed by Rajouri district (Rs. 6592.00/acre) & Udhampur district (Rs. 6036.33/acre). The study of cost and returns will provide an empirical estimate to the growers for resource allocation with the help of B.C ratio whereas the comparative status of cost and return of Maize cultivation will help the researchers to formulate new studies based on economics of Maize crop.','Cost of Cultivation, Total variable Cost, Gross Returns, Net Return, BC ratio','On the basis of net returns, the net income of two crops or more crops can be compared. The study will help the policy makers to make some new policies on cost concepts and will help the researchers to born the new research on Miracle crop i.e Maize crop. A huge thrust and research is required to study the economics of Maize as it bears a huge potential in terms of production and productivity amongst all other cereals.','-','Sunish Sharma, S.P. Singh, Maninder Singh and Ashish Verma (2022). A Comparative Study on Cost and Returns of Maize Cultivation in Jammu Region of J&K. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 14(4): 734-736.'),(5699,'146','Effect of Foliar Application of GA3 on Flowering, Flower Quality and Yield of Lupin (Lupinus perennis L.) under Hill Zone of Karnataka','Pushpa H.A., Chandrashekhar S.Y., Hemlanaik B., Hanumantharaya L. and Ganapathi M.','130 Effect of Foliar Application of GA3 on Flowering, Flower Quality and Yield of Lupin Lupinus perennis L._ Under Hill Zone of Karnataka Chandrasekhar S.pdf','',1,'Gibberellic acid plays a major role in plant growth and development. It has been found to be the best for enhancing both vegetative and flowering attributes in flower crops. With this background, an experiment under Hill Zone of Karnataka was conducted at the Experimental block of Floriculture and Landscape Architecture, College of Horticulture, Mudigere, during the year 2021-2022. The experiment was laid out in Randomized Block Design, comprising seven treatments with three replications. Observations were recorded on various flowering and yield parameters. Among the different treatments, GA3 @ 350 ppm taken minimum days for first flower bud initiation (46.80), flower stalk emergence (48.60), 50 percent flowering (22.30) and maximum duration of flowering (61.90 days). However, maximum number of florets per spike (120.50), diameter of the floret (1.39 cm), stalk length (59.78 cm), number of stalks per plant (9.10) and vase life (4.98 days) was recorded in the treatment GA3 @ 300 ppm. While, minimum was recorded in control. Hence, it is concluded that spraying (thrice) of Gibberellic acid @ 300 ppm at an interval of 30, 60 and 90 days after sowing proved to be promising for enhancing the flower quality and yield of lupin under hill zone of Karnataka.','Lupin, gibberellic acid, flowering, flower quality and yield','On the basis of the result obtained in the present investigation it is concluded that, foliar application of GA3 @ 300 ppm proved significant for improving the flowering, flower quality and yield of lupin under open field condition. Hence, the treatment GA3 @ 300 ppm may be recommended for commercial cultivation of lupin under hill zone of Karnataka.','-','Pushpa H.A., Chandrashekhar S.Y., Hemlanaik B., Hanumantharaya L. and Ganapathi M. (2022). Effect of Foliar Application of GA3 on Flowering, Flower Quality and Yield of Lupin Lupinus perennis L.) Under Hill Zone of Karnataka. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 14(4): 737-741.'),(5700,'146','Effect of Mungbean Bud Necrosis Disease on Growth and Yield Parameters of Mungbean in Protected and Unprotected conditions','Afreen Begum, Aswathanarayana, D.S., Yenjerappa, S.T., Govindappa, M.R. and Sreenivas A.G.','131 Effect of Mungbean Bud Necrosis Disease on Growth and Yield Parameters of Mungbean in Protected and Unprotected conditions Afreen Begum.pdf','',1,'Mungbean [(Vigna radiata (L.) Wilczek] is the important pulse crop after chickpea and pigeonpea in India which is called as “Queen of pulses”, has prone to be infected by bud necrosis disease. In recent years the incidence of disease gradually increasing in mungbean growing areas of Karnataka. Effect of mungbean bud necrosis disease on growth and yield parameters was studied during Kharif 2021 at research plot and MARS, UAS, Raichur, Karnataka. The study reveals that, in first DOS (25th June 2021), highest (64.79%) yield loss was recorded in the plants infected at 25 DAS. Complete yield loss was observed in plants infected at 25 DAS in 2nd DAS (1st July). Similarly same trend was noticed in plants infected at 25, 33, 40 and 47 DAS in 3rd DOS (9th July). Whereas 100 percent yield loss recorded in plants infected at 25 & 33 DOS during 4th DOS (23rd July). While lowest per cent yield loss was recorded in 75 DAS in all four DOS. Mungbean bud necrosis disease was reduced to maximum extent by treating the seeds with imidacloprid 78FS at 10 ml/kg followed by three sprays with fipronil 5SC at 1ml/l and improved growth parameters with maximization of yield by avoiding 100 per cent yield loss.','Yield loss, Pod weight, Imidacloprid, Fipronil, Thrips','In all the four dates of sowing, the growth and yield parameters such as plant height, number of branches per plant, number of nodules per plant, number of pods per plant, pod weight and yield per plant were maximum in healthy plants, followed by in plants where disease started at 75, 68, 61, 54, 47, 40 and 33 DAS, these parameters were minimum in plants where disease appeared at 25 DAS. As age of the plants increases, disease incidence also increases and at 75 DAS highest disease was noticed, since early infected plants can serves as source of inoculums in the plot and helps for subsequent spread by thrips vectors. The yield loss was gradually decreased as the crop stage of infection increased from first appearance of symptoms at 25 DAS (64.79, 100, 100 & 100 %) to 75 DAS (8.45, 56.52, 75.00 & 37.04 %) respectively in all four dates of sowing. Hence, yield loss was more when the mungbean infected at early stage compare to infection at adult plant stage. Mungbean bud necrosis disease was reduced to maximum extent by treating the seeds with imidacloprid 78FS at 10 ml/kg followed by three sprays with fipronil 5SC at 1 ml/l and improved growth parameters with maximization of yield by avoiding 100 per cent yield loss. This treatment is significantly superior to other treatments.','-','Afreen Begum, Aswathanarayana, D.S., Yenjerappa, S.T., Govindappa, M.R. and Sreenivas A.G. (2022). Effect of Mungbean Bud Necrosis Disease on Growth and Yield Parameters of Mungbean in Protected and Unprotected conditions. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 14(4): 742-751.'),(5701,'146','Calibration Studies of Drum Seeder Slot Response to different High Yielding Paddy varieties in Tamil Nadu','I. Chinnamani, R. Durai Singh, V. K. Paulpandi, R. Geetha, E. Murugan and S. Selvam','132 Calibration Studies of Drum Seeder Slot Response to different High Yielding Paddy varieties in Tamil Nadu I. Chinnamani.pdf','',1,'A calibration study and field experiment were carried out at Agricultural College and Research Institute, Madurai to evaluate the suitability of modified drum seeder slots with high yielding varieties during Kharif 2021. Uneven seed drop and seed scattering is more in normally used drum seeder. In this context experiment was taken out to reduce the seed scattering, seed rate and seed drop per hill. Experiment design adopted was split plot. Main plot consists of Varieties like ADT 45 (Medium slender), MDU 6 (Long slender) and ASD 16 (Short bold) and medium duration variety VGD 1 (Short Slender). Drum seeder slots viz. round slot, oval slot, round slot with guiding pipe, oval slot with guiding pipe and self metering slot were taken in sub plots. Calibration study was carried out using paddy drum seeder to evaluate seed flow rate, total seed dispersion, seed dispersion rate and seed rate. Results revealed that oval slot with guiding pipe registered less seed flow rate (4.5 g), total seed dispersion (88.5 g), seed dispersion rate (5.62 seeds m-1) and seed rate (9.25 kg ha-1) compared to other slot modifications. Among the varieties tested, VGD 1 registered less seed flow rate (), total seed dispersion (297.6 g), and seed rate (31.01 kg ha-1) due to the nature of grain shape. While seed dispersion rate was less with ASD 16 (11.07 seeds m-1). Plant population m-2 was minimum with oval slot with guiding pipe (49.3 plants m-2) and ASD 16 (55.04 plants m-2). Response of ASD 16 and MDU 6 was on par when used with oval slot fitted with guiding pipe.','Direct sowing, Slot modification, Drum seeder, Calibration','Comparing the different slot modification in drum seeder using varying seed shapes the minimum flow rate, seed dispersion was noted with Oval slot fitted with guiding pipe used with different seed shapes of rice varieties used in the experiment. The maximum flow rate and seed dispersion were observed in round slot with VGD 1, ADT 45, MDU 6 and ASD 16 compared to other slot modification in drum seeder. Oval slot with guiding pipe recorded minimum flow rate and seed dispersion. There is significant influence among the varieties due to varying seed size of each variety. MDU 6 and ASD 16 recorded minimum flow rate, seed dispersion, seed rate and plant population and was presented in (Table 3). Similar findings given by Kumar et al. (2017).','-','I. Chinnamani, R. Durai Singh, V. K. Paulpandi, R. Geetha, E. Murugan and S. Selvam (2022). Calibration Studies of Drum Seeder Slot Response to different High Yielding Paddy varieties in Tamil Nadu. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 14(4): 752-756.'),(5702,'146','Variation for Qualitative Traits in Ajwain (Trachyspermum ammi L.) Germplasm','Gayathri T., Giridhar K., Tanuja Priya B., Paratpara Rao M. and Vijaya Lakshmi T.','133 Variation for Qualitative Traits in Ajwain _Trachyspermum ammi L._ Germplasm Gayathri Reddy.pdf','',1,'The current study examined variation in ten qualitative traits of ajwain (Trachyspermum ammi L.) germplasm lines, including vegetative, floral, and seed shattering habit. Growth habit, foliage at full grown stage, stem waxiness, nature of branch emergence, angle of primary branch, leaf: density of feathering are among the vegetative characters, while stigma colour, gynoecium carpel colour, and umbel compactness are among the floral characters. Under an Olympus trinocular microscope, the floral characters stigma colour and gynoecium carpel colour were examined. All of the traits studied showed variation among genotypes, which could be attributed to genotypic variation. ','Ajwain, Introduction, Qualitative traits, Germplasm','It was revealed that there was variation in the qualitative traits studied across different germplasm lines. This variation could be due to genetic variations.','-','Gayathri T., Giridhar K., Tanuja Priya B., Paratpara Rao M. and Vijaya Lakshmi T. (2022). Variation for Qualitative Traits in Ajwain (Trachyspermum ammi L.) Germplasm. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 14(4): 757-761.'),(5703,'146','Evaluation of Garden Pea (Pisum sativum L.) varieties for Growth and Flowering Attributes under Malwa Region of Madhya Pradesh','B.L. Nagar, R.K. Sharma, S.S. Kushwah, B.K. Kachouli and Homeshvari','134 Evaluation of Garden Pea _Pisum sativum L._ varieties for Growth and Flowering Attributes under Malwa Region of Madhya Pradesh Homeshvari.pdf','',1,'An experiment was conducted to evaluate the garden pea (Pisum sativum L.) varieties for growth, yield and quality attributes under Malwa region of Madhya Pradesh. Result revealed that in the present investigation, the genotypes differed significantly with respect to different growth and flowering parameter. Growth attributes viz., plant height, number of primary branches per plant, number of leaves per plant and number of node of first flowering. Variation in these attributes among the varieties is mainly due to genetic nature of varieties. Variety Arka Kartik was recorded maximum plant height (24.93, 49.27 and 78.40 cm), variety Kashi Shakti was recorded in highest number of primary branches per plant (1.73, 4.60 and 6.53) and highest number of leaves per plant (29.47, 52.33 and 55.47) at 30, 45 and 60 days after sowing over other varieties studied, variety Kashi Shakti had the highest number of node of first flowering (10.93). Flowering attributes viz., day to first flower appearance, day of 50% flowering and day of first picking. The result revealed that variety Pusa Shree had the noted minimum day first flower appearance (31.00 days), day of 50% flowering (41.03 days) and day of first picking (55.36 days).','Pea (Pisum sativum L.), varieties, growth attributes, flowering attributes, number, plant height, flowering','On the basis of present experiment, it may be concluded that variety Kashi Shakti was superior in terms of number of primary branches per plant, number of leaves per plant and number of node of first flowering followed by Kashi Samarth, Kashi Samridhi, Kashi Nandini and Pusa Pragati. Variety Arka Kartik was found maximum plant height. The variety Pusa Shree was indicated earlier picking followed by Kashi Nandini, Matar Ageta-6 and Matar Ageta-7. Based on the result obtained from evaluation of pea varieties, Kashi Shakti, Arka Kartik, Kashi Samarth, Kashi Samridhi, Kashi Nandini, Pusa Pragati and PSM-3 are the best for growth and phenological parameters. Hence, it can be concluded these varieties may be adopted for commercial cultivation in Malwa region of Madhya Pradesh.','-','B.L. Nagar, R.K. Sharma, S.S. Kushwah, B.K. Kachouli and Homeshvari (2022). Evaluation of Garden Pea (Pisum sativum L.) varieties for Growth and Flowering Attributes under Malwa Region of Madhya Pradesh. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 14(4): 762-766.'),(5704,'146','Boric Acid Adulteration Detection in Wheat Flour using Solvent Extraction Followed by ATR-FTIR Spectra Collection and Applying Feed Forward Neural Network ','Akashamrut M. Patel, Nilesh R. Sardar, Ramesh B. Modi, Arvind N. Nakiya, Bhavesh H. Joshi and Samit Dutta','135 Boric Acid Adulteration Detection in Wheat Flour using Solvent Extraction Followed by ATR-FTIR Spectra Collection and Applying Feed Forward Neural Network Akashamrut M. Patel.pdf','',1,'Food adulteration is very common and thus its detection requires easy, fast and reliable methods. It is self-evident that availability of easy detection methods discourages adulteration. Current study is striving to develop fast and easy method for detection of boric acid adulteration in wheat flour by using by using Attenuated Total Reflectance Fourier Transform Infrared Spectroscopy (ATR-FTIR) spectra collection along with Artificial Neural Network (ANN) classification of spectra. Thus objective of study was to help in solving challenge of adulteration detection using easy to use methods. Extraction of adulterated samples was done both with water and alternatively with methanol. In case of methanol used as solvent for extraction, later on methanol was evaporated and samples was re-suspended in water. Finally spectra is collected by applying extract to FTIR crystal. It was assumed that instead of applying samples directly, extraction will increase detection rate. It was discovered that combination solvent extraction with ATR-FTIR spectra and ANN approach can detect equal or more than 2% adulteration of boric acid in wheat flour successfully. Objective of the current study to easily detect adulteration was solved to an extent. It was concluded that improved sample preparation along with more sensitive ATR-FTIR technology can improve detection levels further.','Adulteration, Wheat Flour, Boric Acid, ATR FTIR, Neural Network','Feed forward artificial neural networks can be successfully used to detect boric acid adulteration in wheat flour at more than or equal to2% levels using FTIR spectra. It can be concluded that detection level is on higher side and improvement scope remains on side of sample preparation and spectra collection techniques rather than on tweaking ANN.','-','Akashamrut M. Patel, Nilesh R. Sardar, Ramesh B. Modi, Arvind N. Nakiya, Bhavesh H. Joshi and Samit Dutta (2022). Boric Acid Adulteration Detection in Wheat Flour using Solvent Extraction Followed by ATR-FTIR Spectra Collection and Applying Feed Forward Neural Network. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 14(4): 767-771.'),(5705,'146','Histomorphometric Studies on Mammary Gland of Barbari Goat in \r\nEastern Uttar Pradesh\r\n','Nripendra Singh, Mukesh Kumar, Krishna Nand Singh, Debaish Niyogi, Rakesh Kumar Gupta and Amit Singh Visen and Kabir Alam','136 Histomorphometric Studies on Mammary Gland of Barbari Goat in Eastern Uttar Pradesh Rakesh Kumar.pdf','',1,'Present study was conducted to explore the histomorphometry of mammary gland in Barbari goat in Eastern Uttar Pradesh. The investigation was carried out for the various components of the 24 mammary glands of barbari goat. Microscopic images were captured using the Lieca microscope (CH9345 Heerbrugg). The average diameter of alveoli in Barbari goat ranged from 22.10 to 37.15 µm. The average of it was 30.34 ± 0.91. The diameter of lobules in Barbari goats ranged from 0.10 to 0.71 mm and the average of it was 0.29 ± 0.04 mm. The number of alveoli per lobule/1 cm² in Barbari goat ranged from 526 to 860 and the average of it was 658.70 ± 18.39 per lobule/cm. The height of alveolar epithelium (µm) in Barbari goat ranged from 3.02 to 10.60 µm and the average of it was 6.58 ± 0.42. The width of alveolar epithelium (µm) in Barbari goat ranged from 4.08 to 12.12 µm and the average of it was 8.16 ± 0.51 µm. The diameter of alveolar epithelium in Barbari goat ranged from 0.24 to 0.62 µm and the average of it was 0.48 ± 0.03 µm. The diameter of inter-lobular duct in Barbari goat ranged from 58 to 86 µm and the average of it was 72 ± 1.85 µm. The diameter of intra-lobular duct in Barbari goat ranged from 32 to 62 µm and the average of it was 44.70 ± 2.15 µm respectively.','Mammary gland, Barbari goat, Histomorphometry, Eastern Uttar Pradesh','Significant differences were observed in diameter of alveoli, diameter of lobule, number of alveoli per lobule, diameter of alveolar, height of alveolar epithelium, width of alveolar epithelium, diameter of nuclei, diameter of inter-lobular duct and diameter of intra-lobular duct. The average values of diameter of these parameters showed significant difference between lactating and non-lactating stages.','-','Nripendra Singh, Mukesh Kumar, Krishna Nand Singh, Debaish Niyogi, Rakesh Kumar Gupta and Amit Singh Visen and Kabir Alam (2022). Histomorphometric Studies on Mammary Gland of Barbari Goat in Eastern Uttar Pradesh. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 14(4): 772-778.'),(5706,'146','Inducement of Seed Priming with Potassium Nitrate on quality Performance of Chickpea (Cicer arietinum L.)','Anish Choudhury and Sanjoy Kumar Bordolui','137 Inducement of Seed Priming with Potassium Nitrate on quality Performance of Chickpea _Cicer arietinum L._ Sanjoy Kumar Bordolui.pdf','',1,'Seed priming is a pre-sowing treatment which results in a physiological condition that allows seed to germinate more efficient. During subsequent germination, primed seeds exhibit a faster and more synchronized germination and young seedlings are often more vigorous against abiotic stresses than seedlings obtained from unprimed seeds. Priming often involves soaking seed in predetermined amounts of water or limitation of the imbibition time. The imbibition rate may well be somehow controlled by specific salt agents like KNO3. The laboratory experiment was carried out in seed testing laboratory, Department of Seed science and Technology, Bidhan Chandra Krishi Viswavidyalaya, Mohanpur, Nadia, West Bengal, India. This study investigated the germination and seedling vigour of chickpea variety ‘Anuradha’ under different KNO3 concentration and duration with the objective of enhancing the germination potential before sowing. In the present experiment therefore an attempt has been made to study the effects of seed priming with 50 ppm KNO3 for 6 hrs, 50 ppm KNO3 for 8 hours, 50 ppm KNO3 for 10 hours; 100 ppm KNO3 for 6 hrs, 100 ppm KNO3 for 8 hrs, 100 ppm KNO3 for 10 hours; 200 ppm KNO3 for 6 hours, 200 ppm KNO3 for 8 hrs; 200 ppm KNO3 for 10 hrs; 400 ppm KNO3 for 6 hrs; 400 ppm KNO3 for 8 hrs; 400 ppm KNO3 for 10 hrs and dry seeds as control in laboratory condition. From the experiment, it can be concluded that 100 ppm KNO3 soaking for 8 hrs was the best performer than other priming materials as it was highest performer in germination percentage (96.30), seedling fresh weight (1.84 g), seedling dry weight (0.14g), seedling Vigour Index-I (2013.08), mean germination time (3.15 days), time to 50 % germination (2.45 days) and germination index (40.453). ','Germination, potassium nitrate, priming, vigour','Seeds of chickpea were treated with various concentration and duration of potassium nitrate recorded higher seed quality parameters compared to control. Seeds treated with KNO3 100 ppm observed the significant higher than other priming concentrations and durations. It can be concluded that among all the treatments, KNO3 100 ppm for soaking 8 hrs showed significant performance for seed quality parameter like germination percentage (96.30), seedling fresh weight (1.84 g), seedling dry weight (0.14g), seedling vigour Index-I (2013.08), mean germination time (3.15 days), time to 50 % germination (2.45 days) and germination index (40.453). Therefore, as pre-sowing treatment KNO3 100 ppm with a duration of 8 hrs is recommended for treating chickpea seed for better seedling establishment.','-','Anish Choudhury and Sanjoy Kumar Bordolui (2022). Inducement of Seed Priming with Potassium Nitrate on quality Performance of Chickpea (Cicer arietinum L.). Biological Forum – An International Journal, 14(4): 779-783.'),(5707,'146','Effect of Spacing and Fertilizer Dose on Growth and Yield of Statice (Limonium sinuatum Mill.)','Karthik D.R., R. Vasantha Kumari and Deepa V. Pawadashetti','138 Effect of Spacing and Fertilizer Dose on Growth and Yield of Statice _Limonium sinuatum Mill._ Karthik D.R.pdf','',1,'A field study was conducted during September 2021 to April 2022 at floriculture unit, Department of Horticulture, University of Agricultural Sciences, Bengaluru to know the effect of spacing and fertiliser dose on growth and yield parameters of statice (Limonium sinuatum Mill.). Very few studies are conducted till date for the standardization of agro-techniques for Statice. So the main objective of the study was to standardize the fertilizer requirement and Spacing to get better yield and quality under shade net condition for Statice. The treatment T3 -75% fertiliser dose and 30 cm × 45 cm has resulted in highest plant height, treatment T11 –125% fertiliser dose and 30 cm × 45 cm has recorded maximum number of leaves per plant, least number of days taken for panicle initiation from the day of transplanting and highest number of panicles per plant. Whereas the total yield of panicles per hectare was noticed highest in treatment T9 – 125% fertiliser dose and 30 cm × 15 cm. ','Statice, fertiliser dose, spacing, growth, yield','By considering the experimental findings of the study it can be concluded that the wider spacing with (30cm × 30cm) with higher level of fertiliser dose (125%) resulted in better growth and development of the plant, showed earliness in flowering while the lesser spacing (30cm × 15cm) with higher level of fertiliser dose (125%) resulted in higher quantitative yield per unit area.','-','Karthik D.R., R. Vasantha Kumari and Deepa V. Pawadashetti (2022). Effect of Spacing and Fertilizer Dose on Growth and Yield of Statice (Limonium sinuatum Mill.). Biological Forum – An International Journal, 14(4): 784-788.'),(5708,'146','Management of Secondary Nutrients in Acid Soils and its Effect on Quality of Banana cv. Ney Poovan','Nivvethapriya G., Shivakumar B.S., Nagaraja M.S., Chaitanya H.S. and Ganapathi M.','139 Management of Secondary Nutrients in Acid Soils and its effect on quality of Banana cv. Ney Poovan Shivakumar B.S.pdf','',1,'An experiment was conducted in farmer’s field at Aldur village, Mudigere taluk, Chikkamagalur district during the year 2021-2022. The experiment was laid out in Randomized Block Design, comprising eleven treatments with three replications. Observations were recorded on various post- harvest and biochemical parameters. Maximum green life (5.60 days), shelf life (10.46 days), fruit weight at ripe stage (80.74 g), pulp weight (70.39 g), peel weight (10.35 g), pulp to peel ratio (6.80), firmness(1.56 lbs), TSS (27.73ºBrix), reducing sugars (17.51 %), non-reducing sugars (3.31 %), total sugars (20.82%) and sugar to acid ratio (79.08) were recorded in T9 - RDF + 500g of Mixture -1 (Agricultural lime: Dolomite: Gypsum - 1:1:1) with minimum titratable acidity (0.26 %). The present findings are feasible in acid soils of Karnataka for profitable production of banana.','Banana, Ney Poovan, Secondary nutrients, Biochemical and Postharvest','The application of lime based fertilizers are considered to be an beneficial approach for the amelioration of acidic soils of Western Ghats of Karnataka. The use of RDF combined with 500g of Mixture -1 (Agricultural lime: Dolomite: Gypsum – 1:1:1) -T9 proved to be best for improving biochemical parameters along with applicable post- harvest parameters in banana. Among this, it is observed that various biochemical parameters like TSS, titratable acidity, reducing sugars, non-reducing sugars, total sugar and sugar to acid ratio were found to be best with better appearance and firmness and this proved to promising for fetching fruits with good quality in banana cv. Ney Poovan in acid soils under hill zone of Karnataka. ','-','Nivvethapriya G., Shivakumar B.S., Nagaraja M.S., Chaitanya H.S. and Ganapathi M. (2022). Management of Secondary Nutrients in Acid Soils and its Effect on Quality of Banana cv. Ney Poovan. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 14(4): 789-793.'),(5709,'146','Effect of Enriched FYM Levels and Fertilizers Levels on Yield and Nutrient uptake by Hirsutum Cotton variety (Gossypium hirsutum L.)','Lavanya N., Ajayakumar M. Y., Krishnamurthy D., Kamble Anand Shankarand and Veeresh H.','140 Effect of Enriched FYM Levels and Fertilizers Levels on Yield and Nutrient uptake by Hirsutum Cotton variety _Gossypium hirsutum L._ Lavanya N.pdf','',1,'A field experiment was conducted during Kharif-2021 at Main Agricultural Research Station, Raichur, Karnataka to study the “Effect of enriched FYM levels and fertilizers levels on yield and nutrient uptake by hirsutum cotton variety (Gossypium hirsutum L.)’’. Among enriched FYM levels, application of 7.5 t ha-1 enriched FYM through spot application (M3) recorded significantly higher total dry matter production (287.48 g plant-1 at harvest), seed cotton yield (2629 kg ha-1), harvest index (0.210), uptake of N (100.07 kg ha-1), P2O5 (24.44 kg ha-1), K2O (116.85 kg ha-1), Fe (266.10 g ha-1) and Zn (1249.14 g ha-1) by hirsutum cotton variety. Among sub plot treatments, significantly higher total dry matter production (293.39 g plant-1 at harvest), seed cotton yield (2676 kg ha-1), harvest index (0.210), uptake of N (100.83 kg ha-1), P2O5 (24.63 kg ha-1), K2O (117.57 kg ha-1), Fe (1267.51 g ha-1) and Zn (273.81 g ha-1) were noticed at application of 150 per cent RDF (F3) over remaining two other treatments i.e., 125 per cent RDF and 100 per cent RDF. ','Enriched FYM, Fertilizer levels, Seed cotton yield, Nutrient uptake','From the results of the present study, it is concluded that there was significant response of enriched FYM application on cotton crop. Among main plot treatments (i.e., enriched FYM levels), application of 7.5 t ha-1 enriched FYM through spot application recorded significantly higher total dry matter production, seed cotton yield and nutrient uptake.\r\nThere was linear increase in dry matter production, seed cotton yield (kg ha-1), harvest index and nutrient uptake with increasing levels of major nutrients. Among three levels of NPK application, 150 per cent RDF found superior in yield and nutrient uptake over 125 % and 100 %.\r\n','-','Lavanya N., Ajayakumar M. Y., Krishnamurthy D., Kamble Anand Shankarand and Veeresh H. (2022). Effect of Enriched FYM Levels and Fertilizers Levels on Yield and Nutrient uptake by Hirsutum Cotton variety (Gossypium hirsutum L.). Biological Forum – An International Journal, 14(4): 794-797.'),(5710,'146','Effect of Water Soluble Nutrients on quality of Banana cv. Grand Naine under Hill Zone of Karnataka','Deepa Gunasagar, Yallesh Kumar H.S., Sridhar R., Ravikumar D. and Suchitra Kumari M.H.','141 Effect of Water Soluble Nutrients on quality of Banana cv. Grand Naine under Hill Zone of Karnataka Yallesh Kumar H.S.pdf','',1,'A field experiment was carried out in farmer’s field at Anajooru village, Mudigere taluk, Chikkamagaluru district during the year 2021-2022. The experiment was laid out in Randomized Complete Block Design (RCBD) with ten treatments, which were replicated thrice. Among the treatments, T9- Sulphate of Potash (1%) + Calcium Nitrate (0.3%) + Magnesium Sulphate (0.2%) + Borax (0.2%) recorded maximum green life (11.23 days), shelf life (10.85 days), fruit weight (178.36 g), pulp weight (135.24 g), peel weight (43.12 g), pulp to peel ratio (3.14), TSS (23.91°Brix), reducing sugars (15.75 %), non-reducing sugars (2.98 %), total sugars (18.73 %),sugar to acid ratio (69.37) with minimum titratable acidity (0.27 %) and physiological loss in weight (11.24 %). The present findings can be commercially used in making banana production more profitable by the application of sulphate of potash, secondary nutrients and boron under hill zone of Karnataka.','Banana, Grand Naine, Sulphate of potash (SOP), Secondary nutrients and Quality','The plants treated with foliar spray of water soluble nutrients on quality and post harvest parameters of banana cv. Grand Naine under hill zone of Karnataka. The treatment T9 foliar spray of Sulphate of Potash (1%) + Calcium Nitrate (0.3%) + Magnesium Sulphate (0.2%) + Borax (0.2%) proved to be best. The treatment T9 had influenced fruit postharvest parameters and biochemical parameters of banana and there by helps farmers to get enhanced benefit-cost ratio in banana cv. Grand Naine under hill zone of Karnataka. ','-','Deepa Gunasagar, Yallesh Kumar H.S., Sridhar R., Ravikumar D. and Suchitra Kumari M.H. (2022). Effect of Water Soluble Nutrients on quality of Banana cv. Grand Naine under Hill Zone of Karnataka. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 14(4): 798-802.'),(5711,'146','Effect of Viability on Seed Germination, Growth and Graft-take in Avocado (Persea americana Mill.) under Hill Zone of Karnataka','Pushpa Shindre, Yallesh Kumar H.S., Narayana, S. Mavarkar, Ganapathi, M. and Chaitanya, H.S.','142 Effect of Viability on Seed Germination, Growth and Graft-take in Avocado _Persea americana Mill._ under Hill Zone of Karnataka Yallesh Kumar H.S.pdf','',1,'The study was carried out during the year 2021-22 under normal poly house condition at department of fruit science, College of Horticulture, Mudigere, on effect of viability on seed germination, growth and graft- take in avocado under hill zone of Karnataka. Experiment was laid out in Completely Randomized Design with seven treatments, replicated thrice. In this experiment, avocado seeds were sown at an interval of five days from 0 days of extraction to 30 days. Avocado seeds sown on zero day after extraction recorded minimum number of days for initiation of germination (14.34), 50 per cent germination (24.33), complete germination (36.34), maximum germination per cent (93.33), germination vigour index (1.33), rootstock height (45.87 cm), number of leaves (18.64) and rootstock diameter (8.77 mm). Primary root length (23.52 cm), number of secondary roots (71.70), volume of roots (28.60), fresh weight (5.66 g) and dry weight (7.90 g) also found maximum in seeds sown on zero day after extraction. In graft parameters, seeds sown at five days after extraction recorded maximum graft height (44.72 cm) and sprout length (11.26 cm). Seeds sown on zero day after extraction recorded maximum number of sprouts (7.20), number of leaves (19.50), graft success percentage (86.67) and graft survival percentage (84.72).','Viability, Germination, Graft success percentage, Graft survival percentage','The seeds sown on zero day after extraction shown better performance in terms of days taken for initiation, 50 per cent and complete germination, germination percentage, rootstock height, diameter and number of leaves, graft success percentage and survival percentage.','-','Pushpa Shindre, Yallesh Kumar, H, S., Narayana, S. Mavarkar, Ganapathi, M. and Chaitanya, H.S. (2022). Effect of Viability on Seed Germination, Growth and Graft-take in Avocado (Persea americana Mill.) under Hill Zone of Karnataka. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 14(4): 803-806.'),(5712,'146','First Report of Acanthopotamon fungosum (Alcock, 1909) (Decapoda: Potamidae) from Zeilad Wild Life Sanctuary, Manipur','Shibananda Rath*, Rinku Bhaumik, Santanu Mitra and Laishram Kosygin','143 First Report of Acanthopotamon fungosum _Alcock, 1909_ _Decapoda Potamidae_ from Zeilad Wild Life Sanctuary, Manipur Rath Shibananda.pdf','',1,'Freshwater crabs are considered as a valuable source of protein food in rural livelihood in northeast India. Although there is only little taxonomical work has been done for the freshwater crabs in the said area. The species Acanthopotamon fungosum (Alcock, 1909) has been reported for the first time from Zeilad Wild Life Sanctuary, Manipur on the basis of one specimen collected. Morphometric features of the examples were studied and photographs of the specimens including of that of the male gonopod structure are presented along with a brief note on the diagnostic features of the species. This discovery will be useful in respect of biodiversity as well as other further biological studies.','Zeilad Wild Life Santuary, Manipur, first record, Acanthopotamon fungosum',' Record of the fresh water crab Acanthopotamon fungosum (Alcock, 1909) from Manipur suggests the distribution range is not so restricted as previously thought (Mitra, 2017). A through survey in the northeast region must be needed for exploration of this group. As these taxonomical data will be served as a base line for parasitological, fishery, ethno-medicine and other further studies. ','-','Shibananda Rath, Rinku Bhaumik, Santanu Mitra and Laishram Kosygin (2022). First Report of Acanthopotamon fungosum (Alcock, 1909) (Decapoda: Potamidae) from Zeilad Wild Life Sanctuary, Manipur. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 14(4): 807-810.'),(5713,'146','In silico Structural Prediction and Functional Analysis of Cold Tolerant Glycerol-3-Phosphate Dehydrogenase Protein of Rainbow Trout','Ubaid Qayoom, Zahoor Mushtaq and Pabitra Barik','144 In silico Structural Prediction and Functional Analysis of Cold Tolerant Glycerol-3-Phosphate Dehydrogenase Protein of Rainbow Trout Ubaid Qayoom.pdf','',1,'The present study aimed to investigate the glycerol-3-phosphate dehydrogenase (GPDH) protein of the rainbow trout (Oncorhynchus mykiss). Although the protein plays a crucial role in the cold tolerance pathway of fishes, especially rainbow trout, its structural and functional annotation remains to be studied. The present study was designed to enlist some of the physiochemical and functional properties of GPDH protein and generate information about its three-dimensional structure. The primary structure evaluation inferred that it is an acidic and hydrophobic protein with a molecular weight of 39.9 kDa. Functional analysis by InterPro classified the protein into NAD(P)-binding domain family having a biological role in the redox processes. The SOSUIGramN server indicated the cytoplasmic subcellular localization without any signal sequence. The three-dimensional model built using the Swiss-Model server was evaluated using QMEAN, ProQ, and ProSA programs. The predicted 3D structure will offer a good foundation for functional analysis of experimental origin crystal structures. The closest interacting protein was found to be belonging to the Glycerol-3-phosphate acyltransferase family having a score of >0.7 via the STRINGv 11.5 server. Overall, the present study of structural characterization of the trout glycerol-3-phosphate dehydrogenase will facilitate an improved understanding of its enzymatic actions as well as its role in the cold tolerance of rainbow trout.','Oncorhynchus mykiss, GPDH, Homology modelling, Bioinformatics','In conclusion, genomic and proteomic sequencing projects have resulted in many protein sequences without any annotated functions or designated hypothetical/conserved proteins. The GPDH gene in rainbow trout plays a crucial role in cold stress physiology. In snow trouts of Himalayan rivers, Barat et al. (2012) characterized 1,012 bp of the GPDH gene from Schizothorax richardsonii and S. niger and showed a 19-fold increase in its expression in liver tissue at 5ºC compared to 15 ºC conditions suggesting a role in stress-linked responses in these endemic Himalayan fishes. However, the protein has not been physically characterized using NMR or X-ray crystallography. Consequently, it becomes imperative to utilise bioinformatic means to fathom these aspects of GPDH as well as other critical proteins in rainbow trout.','-','Ubaid Qayoom, Zahoor Mushtaq and Pabitra Barik (2022). In silico Structural Prediction and Functional Analysis of Cold Tolerant Glycerol-3-Phosphate Dehydrogenase Protein of Rainbow Trout. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 14(4): 811-818.'),(5714,'146','Isolation, Characterization, and Identification Candidate of Probiotic Rhodotorula mucilaginosa Isolated from Soaked and unsoaked Rice and Black gram Immersed in sterilized de-ionised Water','Praveen Kumar Dubey, Ashish Rawson, Ananda Kumar Sugumar and N. Baskaran','145 Isolation, Characterization, and Identification Candidate of Probiotic Rhodotorula mucilaginosa Isolated from Soaked and unsoaked Rice and Black gram Immersed in sterilized de-ionisedPraveen Kumar Dubey.pdf','',1,'In this investigation, soaked and unsoaked rice and black gram were submerged in sterile de-ionized water with the intention of examining the morphology, pigmentation, and identification of any microorganisms that may have grown there. Few studies have been done to determine the presence of particular probiotic bacteria in the soaked rice and black gram water. Over the potato dextrose agar (PDA) media, there were more than 234 yeast and mould colonies discovered. From these colonies, the most unique 4 colonies were chosen based on colour, characteristics, and gram staining, and from those, 2 colonies were used for PCR (Polymerase Chain Reaction) amplification. A single distinct 1050 bp PCR amplicon band was visible on an agarose gel. Through the use of NS1 and NS4 primer, the forward and reverse sequences of the 18S rRNA gene were combined to create the consensus sequence. However, Rhodotorula mucilaginosa\'s presence was validated by sequences that produced substantial alignments, a distance matrix, and a phylogenetic tree. The results of this investigation point to the confirmed the existence of Rhodotorula mucilaginosa in both soaked and unsoaked black gram.','PCR amplification, agarose gel, Rhodotorula mucilaginosa, 18S rRNA','Findings of this study show that soaked and unsoaked rice and black gram submerged in sterile de-ionized water on the potato dextrose agar (PDA) media; there were more than 234 yeast and mould different colonies shown. From these colonies, the most identicle 4 colonies and from those 2 colonies were used in PCR amplification. A single species 1050 bp PCR amplicon band was visible on an agarose gel. The 18S rRNA gene\'s forward and reverse sequences were synthesized using the NS1 and NS4 primers to constructed the consensus sequence. However, Rhodotorula mucilaginosa\'s presence was validated by sequences that produced substantial alignments, a distance matrix, and a phylogenetic tree. Moreover, morphological and pigment also confirmed the availability of the Rhodotorula mucilaginosa in different water of black gram. Therefore, all the results of colour, characteristics, gram staining, and PCR amplification confirmed the existence of Rhodotorula mucilaginosa in both soaked and unsoaked black gram.','-','Praveen Kumar Dubey, Ashish Rawson, Ananda Kumar Sugumar, N. Baskaran (2022). Isolation, Characterization, and Identification Candidate of Probiotic Rhodotorula mucilaginosa Isolated from Soaked and unsoaked Rice and Black gram Immersed in sterilized de-ionised Water. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 14(4): 819-823.'),(5715,'147','A New Geographical Distribution of Garra jaldhakaensis in Kumaon Himalayas','Bungdon Shangningam, Rath Shibananda, Asha Kiran Tudu and Laishram Kosygin','8 A New Geographical Distribution of Garra jaldhakaensis in Kumaon Himalayas Rath Shibananda.pdf','',1,'The occurrence of Garra jaldhakaensis is recorded first in Uttarakhand, Northern India. The fish has been reported earlier only from the type locality Jaldhaka River near Jhalong, Kalimpong district, West Bengal, Brahmaputra River Drainage, India. The meristic counts, body measurements and descriptions are presented. The specimens have been compared with the type specimens and found out that the fish has a new distributional record from the Uttarakhand, Kumaon Himalayas, India.','Freshwater fish, Lebeoninae, Kumaon Himalayas','The present study reports the first report of Garra jaldhakaensis from the Kosi River, Almorah District, Uttarakhand, India. It discussed the distributional status of the species from the Jaldhaka River to the Kosi River in Uttarakhand. The current study will assist the freshwater fish specialist group to apprise the status of different freshwater taxa. The study demand further biological study for conserving the genetic resources of the fish and establishing its fishery potential for socioeconomic development.','-','Bungdon Shangningam, Rath Shibananda*, Asha Kiran Tudu and Laishram Kosygin (2022). A New Geographical Distribution of Garra jaldhakaensis in Kumaon Himalayas Bungdon Shangningam, Rath. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 14(4a): 44-47.'),(5716,'147','Assessment of Population Structure and Association Mapping for Fruit quality Traits using Molecular Markers in Tomato','Sandeep R. Kadam, Satish D., B. Fakrudin, Mahantesha B.N. Naika, Jayashree Ugalat, Vasudeva K.R. and Basavraja N.','9 Assessment of Population Structure and Association Mapping for Fruit quality Traits using Molecular Markers in Tomato Sandeep R. Kadam.pdf','',1,'Tomato (Solanum lycopersicum L.) is an important and most widely grown vegetable crop of both tropics and sub tropics of the world. The high demand for tomato makes it a high value crop that can generate much income to farmers. Tomato fruits are an important source of fiber and nutrients in the human diet and a model for the studying fruit development. The combination of large germplasm collections, high-throughput genomic tools, and traits of economic interest provide a framework to apply genome wide association study (GWAS), which is promising genetic method for the dissection of complex traits in this species. The estimation of genetic relatedness among accessions and sub-populations is a prerequisite for the identification of true genome wide associations. The genotyping of accessions using wide genome simple sequence repeats could give correct estimates of genetic relatedness. The genotyping of enough markers also decides the outcome of true causal variants. Here we report the population structure of 264 tomato germplasm using the wide genome distributed simple sequence repeats (SSRs). The capital K value of population is estimated to K=4. The association mapping in structured population resulted in significant marker trait associations for fruit quality traits wise fruit firmness, shelf life, ascorbic acid, lycopene content, total soluble solids and locule number. Associations between SSR alleles and fruit quality traits were obtained using the generalized linear model (GLM) and the population structure matrix Q = 4. A total of 133 SSR alleles (P<0.05) were detected for six fruit quality traits. ','Germplasm, Simple sequence repeats, Population structure, Genome wide association study, Alleles','A study on Genome Wide Association Study for fruit quality traits in Tomato (Solanum lycopersicum L.)” was undertaken to investigate variation in tomato association mapping panel. 264 genotypes were analyzed during kharif and rabi season for fruit quality traits viz; fruit firmness, shelf life, total soluble solids, lycopene content, ascorbic acid and locule numbers. The present findings established of superior structured population which was useful for identifying significant marker trait associations. The results explain the profound variability for fruit quality traits in germplasm. The significant associations will pave the path for hybrid breeding for fruit quality improvement using the marker assisted selection thereby accelerating the breeding program.','-','Sandeep R. Kadam, Satish D., B. Fakrudin, Mahantesha B.N. Naika, Jayashree Ugalat, Vasudeva K.R. and Basavraja N. (2022). Assessment of Population Structure and Association Mapping for Fruit quality Traits using Molecular Markers in Tomato. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 14(4a): 48-55.'),(5717,'147','Effect of Preharvest Foliar Application of Bio-stimulants and Nutrients on improving Yield of Bhagwa Pomegranate under Central Dry Zone of Karnataka','Krithika C.K., Sridhar R., Shivakumar B.S. , Kantharaj Y. and Ganapathi M.','10 Effect of Preharvest Foliar Application of Bio-stimulants and Nutrients on improving Yield of Bhagwa Pomegranate under Central Dry Zone of Karnataka Sridhar R.pdf','',1,'Pomegranate is a high value crop as it is a good source of antioxidants and it has gained more importance in human health. In spite of these good characters, pomegranate production is not increasing as per the expectationdue to the various biotic and abiotic stresses. As a fact, foliar application of bio-stimulants and nutrients is an effective strategy employed in fruit crops to induce changes in physiological activities of plant tissues which stimulates stress-induced responsesto decrease biotic and abiotic stresses, which are more prevalent in the dry zone thus aiding in increasing the productivity, quality and profitability. In this present study, preharvest foliar spray of methyl jasmonate (0.5 mM and 1 mM), salicylic acid (300 and 500 ppm), kaolin (3% and 6%), calcium chloride (0.2% and 0.4%) and sulphate of potash (0.5% and 0.8%) sprays effects were investigated on yield attributes of pomegranate. Among the different treatments, kaolin at 3% (T6) was found to be superior with respect to the yield attributes such as fruit length, fruit diameter, fruit volume, rind weight, rind thickness, rind-aril ratio, aril weight per fruit, number of arils per fruit, 100 aril weight per fruit, seed weight, fruit weight, number of fruits per plant, yield, marketable fruits and unmarketable fruits which were on par with salicylic acid (300 ppm) (T4) compared to control (T1) for all the above parameters.','Pomegranate, Bhagwa, Bio-stimulants, Nutrients, Yield','Based on the above results, it can be concluded that kaolin @ 3 % recorded the maximum number of fruits per plant, yield,fruit weight, fruit length, fruit diameter, fruit volume, rind weight, rind thickness, number of arils per fruit, aril weight per fruit, 100 aril weight per fruit, marketable fruits and the minimum rind-aril ratio, seed weight and unmarketable fruits. Hence, the application of kaolin at 3% at an interval of 30 days after first irrigation was found to be effective in increasing the yield and yield attributes of pomegranate and proved to be promising in fetching a better return for the farmers by enhancing the yield in pomegranate cv. Bhagwa Under Central Dry Zone of Karnataka.','-','Krithika C.K., Sridhar R., Shivakumar B.S., Kantharaj Y. and Ganapathi M. (2022). Effect of Preharvest Foliar Application of Bio-stimulants and Nutrients on improving Yield of Bhagwa Pomegranate under Central Dry Zone of Karnataka. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 14(4a): 56-61.'),(5718,'147','Effect of Harvesting Stages and Brine Concentrations on Sensory Qualities of Canned Tender Jack (Artocarpus heterophyllus Lam.)','K.R. Poornima, Y. Kantharaj, B.S. Shivakumar, N. Sudharani and Devaraju','11 Effect of Harvesting Stages and Brine Concentrations on Sensory Qualities of Canned Tender Jack _Artocarpus heterophyllus Lam._ Y. Kantharaj.pdf','',1,'The level of acceptance by consumers plays a vital role in developing new food products. Consumer decisions about food products largely depend on their sensory profile. So, the experiment was carried out to know the effect of harvesting stages and brine concentrations on the sensory quality of canned tender jack (Artocarpus heterophyllus Lam.). The experiment was laid out in Factorial Completely Randomised Design with two factors viz., H- Harvesting stage at four different stages viz., H1- 45 DAFS (Days After Fruit Set), H2- 60 DAFS, H3- 70 DAFS, H4- 90 DAFS and B- Brine concentration at four different concentrations viz., B1- 2 percent, B2- 4 percent, B3- 6 percent, B4- 8 percent, and their interaction (H×B) in 3 replications. Among different harvesting stages and brine concentrations, H2 (60 DAFS) and B1 (2%) recorded the maximum score concerning appearance, texture, taste, and overall acceptability. Among different treatment combinations, H2B1 (60 DAFS in 2 % brine) showed better scores with respect to organoleptic parameters like appearance (4.86), texture (4.85), taste (4.90), and overall acceptability (4.87). Based on appearance, texture, taste, and overall acceptability, it was proved that H2B1 (60 DAFS in 2 % brine) is significantly suitable for preparing tender jack canning.','Tender jack, harvesting stages, brine concentrations, organoleptic qualities','Considering the obtained results with respect to the sensory qualities of canned tender jack. Among the harvesting stages and brine concentrations, H2(60 DAFS) and B1(2 %) respectively recorded higher scores. Concerning interactions, H2B1 treatment (60 days after fruit set with 2% brine concentration) recorded the maximum score concerning appearance, texture, taste, and overall acceptability.','-','K.R. Poornima, Y. Kantharaj, B.S. Shivakumar, N. Sudharani and Devaraju (2022). Effect of Harvesting Stages and Brine Concentrations on Sensory Qualities of Canned Tender Jack (Artocarpus heterophyllus Lam.). Biological Forum – An International Journal, 14(4a): 62-64.'),(5719,'146','Phosphorus Management through PROM and PSB in semi-rabi Green gram','Shivani Patel, J.C. Shroff , P.M. Parmar, S.N. Shah and P.V. Parmar','146 Phosphorus Management through PROM and PSB in semi-rabi Green gram P.M. Parmar.pdf','',1,'A field experiment was carried out on loamy sand soil at Anand Agricultural University, Anand, Gujarat during semi-rabi season of 2021 under middle Gujarat condition to evaluate the effect of phosphorus management through PROM (Phosphate Rich Organic Manure) and PSB (Phosphorus solubilizing Bacteria) in semi-rabi green gram. The experiment was laid out in Factorial Randomized Block Design with three replications. The treatment combinations comprised three phosphorus levels viz., P1: 30 kg P2O5/ha, P2: 40 kg P2O5/ha and P3: 50 kg P2O5/ha and five biofertilizer (PSB) treatments viz., B0: Control, B1: Seed treatment (5ml/kg seed), B2: Drenching with PSB at 20 and 40 DAS(1 lit/ha), B3: Seed treatment fb (Followed by) Drenching at 20 DAS, and B4: Seed treatment fb Drenching at 20 and 40 DAS. The green gram was grown with standard package of practices. The results of the experiment revealed that significantly higher number of pods/plant (4.20), pod length (8.95 cm), seed yield (1176 kg/ha), stover yield (2262 kg/ha), test weight (51.96) and phosphorus content in seed (0.49 %) and stover (0.159 %) was found with application of 50 kg P2O5/ha (P3) which was found at par with application 40 kg P2O5/ha (P2). Nitrogen and phosphorus uptake in seed and stover also follows same trend. Under biofertilizer treatment, Seed treatment fb Drenching at 20 and 40 DAS(B4) recorded higher yield attributes and yield of green gram viz., number of pods/plant (4.38), pod length (8.90 cm), seed yield (1207 kg/ha) and stover yield (2305 kg/ha). Quality parameters viz; phosphorus content in seed and stover as well as nitrogen and phosphorus uptake in seed and stover were also increased with application of treatment B4 (Seed treatment fb Drenching at 20 and 40 DAS)followed by treatment B3 (Seed treatment fb Drenching at 20 DAS).','Green gram, Phosphorus, PROM, Biofertilizer, PSB, Yield, Quality','On the basis of the results obtained from the present investigation, it is indicated that for accruing higher yield and quality in green gram variety GAM 5 should be cultivated in semi rabi season with the application of 40 kg P2O5/ha through PROM (387 kg/ha) and seed treatment with PSB followed by drenching of PSB at 20 DAS.','-','Shivani Patel, J.C. Shroff, P.M. Parmar, S.N. Shah and P.V. Parmar (2022). Phosphorus Management through PROM and PSB in semi-rabi Green gram. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 14(4): 824-827.'),(5720,'146','Effect of Bio-fertilizers and Farm Yard Manure in Production of Tomato: A Review','Rizwan Ali, Satish Yadav, Prashant Srivastav, Rajneesh Kumar, Muzeev Ahmad and Gargi Krishna','147 Effect of Bio-fertilizers and Farm Yard Manure in Production of Tomato A Review Rizwan Ali.pdf','',1,'Bio-fertilizers are organic fertilizers that contain live microbial inoculants and may provide plants with otherwise inaccessible vitamins. Bio-fertilization is crucial in the development and application of sustainable agriculture practices in order to prevent the degradation of the environment and natural resources. The traditional methods of managing nutrients are becoming more and more necessary in order to increase soil nutrient content and decrease environmental contamination. In order to raise crop output, improve and restore soil fertility, promote plant development, lower production costs, and lessen the environmental effect associated with chemical fertilization; biofertilizers are seen as a viable and attractive biotechnology option. Numerous microorganisms, such as nitrogen-fixing soil bacteria (such as Azotobacter and Rhizobium), nitrogen-fixing cyanobacteria (such as Anabaena), solubilizing phosphate bacteria (such as Pseudomonas), and arbuscular mycorrhizal fungi, are frequently utilized as biofertilizers. The findings demonstrated that the bio-fertilizers alone helped to keep the pH of the soil neutral and greatly increased its C, N, P, and K content.','Tomato, INM, Organic manures, Bio fertilizers, growth, yield and quality','It can be safely concluded from the research on organic manure and bio-fertilizers on tomatoes that organic manure and bio-fertilizers play an important role in enhancing the maximum plant height, leaves per plant, number of branches per plant, length of internodes, and maximum number of flowers per plant in vegetative characters. Farm Yard Manure and bio-fertilizers were also effective for fruiting characteristics, producing maximum fruit weight, length, the volume of fruit per plant, and yield quintal/hector. It also works on TSS, acidity, total sugar, and vitamin C levels in tomatoes. After seeing all of this, we can conclude that Farm Yard Manure sand bio-fertilizers are quite beneficial to tomato growers.','-','Rizwan Ali, Satish Yadav, Prashant Srivastav, Rajneesh Kumar, Muzeev Ahmad and Gargi Krishna (2022). Effect of Bio-fertilizers and Farm Yard Manure in Production of Tomato: A Review. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 14(4): 828-832.'),(5721,'146','Evaluation of Commercial Sex Pheromone Lures for Management of Fall Armyworm, Spodoptera frugiperda (J.E. Smith)','K.N. Sharath, Sharanabasappa S. Deshmukh, Bathini Nagendra Babu, C.M. Kalleshwaraswamy, B.K. Shivanna and G.N. Thippeshappa','148 Evaluation of Commercial Sex Pheromone Lures for Management of Fall Armyworm, Spodoptera frugiperda _J.E. Smith_ Sharanabasappa S. Deshmukh.pdf','',1,'The utilization of female sex pheromones for management of insect pests through mass trapping of males can be an important tool for ecofriendly pest management. Hence, the present investigation was undertaken to evaluate the commercial sex pheromone lures for management of fall armyworm, Spodoptera frugiperda through mass trapping under field condition in maize ecosystem. The lures evaluation was done using Randomized Block Design (RBD) with seven treatments including control and were replicated four times. The results showed a significant difference in male moth trap catches among different sex pheromone lures across different weeks of the crop growth. Further, the interaction between the sex pheromone lures and weeks also exhibited a significant difference in the attraction of male moths of S. frugiperda. The highest trap catches were recorded during the July third week which capturing 16.32 moths/trap/week and the lowest number of moths were captured during third week of September (0.18 moths/trap/week).','Fall armyworm, sex pheromone, lure evaluation, management, moths, trap catches','The current investigation exhibited a remarkable variation in performance of commercial sex pheromone lures of fall armyworm with respect to attraction of male moths under field conditions. The attraction of male moths by different lures varied significantly among the treatments and during different weeks of the crop growth. These variations among treatments could be due to differences in blend ratio of different lures orimpact of extraneous factors such as temperature, humidity and rainfall on the lure and also due to evaporation rate of the compound. The variation across the weeks could be due to differences in the infestation in the field and also adult moth population. Hence the current study serves as an important tool for monitoring fall armyworm and also helps in deciding the frequency of insecticide application for further studies. ','-','K.N. Sharath, Sharanabasappa S. Deshmukh, Bathini Nagendra Babu, C.M. Kalleshwaraswamy, B.K. Shivanna and G.N. Thippeshappa (2022). Evaluation of Commercial Sex Pheromone Lures for Management of Fall Armyworm, Spodoptera frugiperda (J.E. Smith). Biological Forum – An International Journal, 14(4): 833-837.'),(5722,'146','Comparative Evaluation of effect at Fermentation on Functional and Anti Nutritional properties of Pearl Millet Flours (Nandi 65 & Pioneer 8885)','Sweta Singh, Ajay Kumar Singh, R.N. Shukla and Kunal Singh','149 Comparative Evaluation of Effect at Fermentation on Functional and Anti Nutritional properties of Pearl Millet Flours _Nandi 65 & Pioneer 8885_ Sweta Singh.pdf','',1,'The present study was undertaken to evaluate various functional properties of different pearl millets varieties (NANDI 65 and PIONEER 8885) the various functional properties like water holding capacity, oil holding capacity, swelling properties, bulk density were evaluated. The highest water holding capacity was found in Nandi 65 at fermented 24 hours flour (276±0.76) and lowest was observed in variety pioneer 8885 control flour (219 ± 0.20). Oil holding capacity, swelling properties, bulk density of both the varieties of pearl millet ranged seen. Evaluation of anti-nutritional flour showed that the phytate and tannin were significantly decreased by fermentation. Use of millet based fermented flour improves the food security and improve sustainable agriculture.','Functional properties, water absorption capacity, oil holding capacity, swelling properties, bulk density','Functional properties are playing an essential function in new product development. Treatment like water holding capacity, oil holding capacity, swelling capacity, bulk density therefore to get concept about products textural and sensory quality. Moreover functional properties of pearl millet flour is very essential due to the fact pearl millet is one of the underutilized millet, therefore to explore pearl millet into new cost introduced convenience food products will helps to fulfil the dietary security. However, most important factors which limit its utilization are the presence of anti-dietary factors (phytate, tannins) which decrease availability of minerals.','-','Sweta Singh, Ajay Kumar Singh, R.N Shukla and Kunal Singh (2022). Comparative Evaluation of Effect at Fermentation on Functional and Anti Nutritional properties of Pearl Millet Flours (Nandi 65 & Pioneer 8885). Biological Forum – An International Journal, 14(4): 838-844.'),(5723,'146','Studies on Preparation of Sesbania grandiflora Flower and Leaves Powder and Evaluation of its Physical, Functional and Reconstitutional properties','Bhokre C.K., Gadhe K.S., Joshi A.A. and Ghatge P.U.','150 Studies on Preparation of Sesbania grandiflora Flower and Leaves Powder and Evaluation of its Physical, Functional and Reconstitutional properties Bhokre C.pdf','',1,'Sesbania grandiflora is plant cultivated for its edible flowers in all over India. It\'s edible flowers and leaves has unique medicinal properties and used as a herbal drug for its antibiotic, anthelmintic and anti-tumor properties. The plant contains rich in phytochemicals such as polyphenols, flavonoids, carotenoids, tannins, steroids and triterpens having antioxidant, anticancer properties and used in colic disorder, jaundice, poisoning condition, small-pox, eruptive fever, epilepsy. Sesbania grandiflora flowers and leaves was underutilized vegetable because of seasonal availability and perishability. In present investigation efforts have taken to prepare powder from S. grandiflora flower and leaves to enhance its utilization. For preparation of powder flower and leaves subjected to different pre-treatments (without blanching, blanching and blanching + sulphitation). The effect of pre-treatment on drying characteristics flower and leaves was studied. Further effect of pre-treatment on physical, functional and reconstitutional properties of flower and leaves powder were investigated. The data obtained revealed that there is remarkable decrease in the drying time of blanched and blanched + sulphited flower and leaves. The results on colour attributes of flower and leaves powder show increase in lightness ie L* value and reduction in the a*and b* value in blanched + sulphited sample than control. In particle size analysis of powder the blanching + sulphitation treatment show the higher percentage on 80, 60 and 30 mesh sieve compared to other treatment. The data on functional properties of flower and leaves powder indicate that the highest bulk density, water absorption capacity, oil absorption capacity and swelling power was recorded in blanched sample FP1 and LP1. The treatment blanching + sulphitation show positive effect on solubility and wettability too. The findings of present investigation revealed that Sesbania grandiflora flower and leaves powder prepared by blanching + sulphitation treatment have better physical, functional and reconstitutional properties. The developed powder could be utilized in different value added product for fortification to improve its nutritional and phytochemical value. ','Sesbania grandiflora, medicinal properties, nutritional value, drying, physical, functional properties','Data on the effect of pretreatments (without blanching, blanching and blanching + sulphitation) on drying characteristic revealed there is remarkable decrease in the drying time of blanched and blanched + sulphited Sesbania grandiflora flower and leaves. Effect of pre-treatments on colour attributes of Sesbania grandiflora flower and leaves powder show increase in lightness i.e. L* value and reduction in the a*and b* value in treated sample which imparts attractive brightness to powder. The powder prepared by blanching + sulphitation treatment received the higher percentage on 80, 60 and 30 mesh sieve having pore size 180, 250 and 300 μm pore size. The maximum flower powder retained 43.50 per cent and leaves powder 43.05 per cent on 80 mesh sieve. The pre-treatments blanching + sulphitation results in to improvement in functional as well as reconstitutional properties of Sesbania grandiflora flower and leaves powder. It can be concluded from present investigation that the treatment blanching + sulphitation was suitable for both Sesbania grandiflora flower and leaves powder preparation. As per earlier studies reported Sesbania grandiflora flower and leaves had nutritional, medicinal and therapeutic significance hence the developed flower and leaves powder would be utilized in different value added products for improving its nutritional and functional value. ','-','Bhokre C.K., Gadhe K.S., Joshi A.A. and Ghatge P.U. (2022). Studies on Preparation of Sesbania grandiflora Flower and Leaves Powder and Evaluation of its Physical, Functional and Reconstitutional properties. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 14(4): 845-851.'),(5724,'146','Processing, Physical, and Functional properties of Lotus Stem and Jamun Seed Flours','M. Kirthy Reddy, Rita Narayanan, V. Appa Rao, C. Valli and G. Sujatha','151 Processing, Physical, and Functional properties of Lotus Stem and Jamun Seed Flours M. Kirthy Reddy.pdf','',1,'Lotus stem and Jamun Seed flours have a high potential for use in various food applications as they possess many health, functional and therapeutic benefits. This study aimed to evaluate both the flour’s physical and functional properties. The yield of both flours is 73.56% and 86.74% respectively. Moisture content and water activity indicated that the flours have a longer shelf life. Lotus stem powder exhibited a greater inferior ability than Jamun seed flour in terms of physical properties. The presence of fibre in lotus stem powder led to higher Water and Oil Absorption Index than in Jamun Seed flour. Swelling Index and Foaming capacity were higher in Jamun seed flour indicating the presence of higher protein. Lotus Stem powder did not form strong gel even at 20% concentration whereas, Jamun seed powder formed strong gel at 10% only. Based on these properties both flours can be incorporated/substituted/ replaced into different foods.','Lotus stem, Jamun seed powder, Functional properties, Swelling Index, Foaming capacity','The yield of the powder is high in both powders but they exhibited inferior flowability. Lotus stem powder has the highest amount of fibre which can be used as fibre substitute in many foods. Jamun Seed can be used in ready-to-serve processed foods. Both powders provide many therapeutic, health, and functional benefits incorporation levels, and in vivo and in vitro studies can be exploited. These powders can be used as potential substitutes and replacements in various foods.','-','M. Kirthy Reddy, Rita Narayanan, V. Appa Rao, C. Valli and G. Sujatha (2022). Processing, Physical, and Functional properties of Lotus Stem and Jamun Seed Flours. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 14(4): 852-856.'),(5725,'146','Optimizing Planting Geometry for Growth, quality and Yield of Lupin\r\n (Lupinus perennis L.) Cut Flower\r\n','Kavya B., Hemla Naik B., Chandrashekar S.Y., Kantharaj Y. and Nandish M.S.','152 Optimizing Planting Geometry for Growth, quality and Yield of Lupin Kavya B.pdf','',1,'Lupin (Lupinus perennis L.) is an emerging cut flower with enormous potential to be used extensively. Plant spacing plays a vital role in obtaining a better growth and development by manipulating the micro environment. Since there is a little data on impact of plant spacing on growth and flowering of Lupin, present study was carried out to standardize the spacing in order to obtain quality produce of Lupin cut flower. The experiment was laid out in Randomized Block Design (RBD) comprising of 11 treatments which replicated thrice. Results revealed that growth parameters like number of branches per plant (15.43) and number of leaves per plant (113.60) recorded maximum under treatment T5 (45 × 45 cm). Whereas, T1 (30 × 30 cm) spacing contributed maximum plant height (77.45 cm) and minimum days for flowering parameters such as days for flower bud initiation (44.21), flower stalk emergence (47.79) and 50 per cent flowering completion (24.08) however, treatment T5 (45 × 45 cm) recorded maximum duration of flowering (56.74 days), crop duration (175.39 days) and flower quality parameters viz., length of flower stalk (55.71 cm), number of florets per stalk (112.21), diameter of flower (1.35 cm) and yield parameters like number of stalks per plant (8.63), per plot (241.64) and per hectare (4.26 lakhs) while minimum under treatment T1 (30 × 30 cm) spacing.','Lupin, Spacing, Cut flower, Flower yield and Stalk length','On the basis of results obtained and facts mentioned in this chapter, among the different spacing levels which influenced plant growth, flowering, cut flower quality and yield of Lupin, it can be concluded that treatment T5 (45×45 cm) may be recommended for commercial cultivation of Lupin for cut flower production.','-','Kavya B., Hemla Naik B., Chandrashekar S.Y., Kantharaj Y. and Nandish M.S. (2022). Optimizing Planting Geometry for Growth, quality and Yield of Lupin (Lupinus perennis L.) Cut Flower. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 14(4): 857-861.'),(5726,'146','Effect of Crop Geometry and Fertilizer Levels on the Grain Yield of Little Millet (Panicum sumatrense L.) in Rainfed Vertisols','P. Sujathamma and B. Santhosh Kumar Naik','153 Effect of Crop Geometry and Fertilizer Levels on the Grain Yield of Little Millet _Panicum sumatrense L._ in Rainfed Vertisols B. Santhosh Kumar Naik.pdf','',1,'Little millet crop is emerging as important crop under climate resilient agriculture and for developing functional foods for the expanding diabetic and obese population. But, the productivity of the crop is low due to its cultivation in marginal and sub marginal lands without application of fertilizers and improper crop geometry. By keeping this in view, a field study was conducted at Agricultural Research Station, Podalakur, SPSR Nellore District during rabi season 2019-20 to find out the effect of crop geometry and fertilizer levels on growth and yield of little millet. An experiment was laid out in Factorial RBD with four crop geometries (S1: 20cm × 10 cm; S2: 25cm × 10 cm; S3: 30cm × 10 cm S4: Broadcasting) as one factor and three fertilizer levels (F1: Control; F2:20-20-0 kg N, P2O5 and K2O /ha; F3: 40-20-10 kg N, P2O5 and K2O/ha) as another factor with three replications. The results revealed that among the four crop geometries the highest grain yield (1511 kg /ha) was recorded at crop geometry of 25 cm × 10 cm and the highest stover yield (2514 kg/ha) was recorded in broadcasting. Among the fertilizer levels application of 40-20-10 kg N, P2O5 and K2O /ha registered significantly higher grain (1485 kg/ ha) and stover yield (2679kg/ha). Little millet grain yield was significantly influenced by crop geometry and fertilizer levels interaction. Significantly the highest grain yield (1833 kg ha-1) was recorded at crop geometry of 25 cm × 10 cm with application of 40-20-10 kg N, P2O5 and K2O/ha. ','Little millet, Crop geometry, Fertilizer levels','The present investigation revealed that, crop geometry of 25 cm × 10 cm and application of 40-20-10 kg N, P2O5 and K2O/ ha was found to be optimum for realizing higher grain yield in rainfed vertisols of Southern agro climatic zone of Andhra Pradesh.','-','P. Sujathamma and B. Santhosh Kumar Naik (2022). Effect of Crop Geometry and Fertilizer Levels on the Grain Yield of Little Millet (Panicum sumatrense L.) in Rainfed Vertisols. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 14(4): 862-865.'),(5727,'146','Cytochrome P4501A Detection and Quantification in Relation to different Water quality Parameters of Lake Wular of India','Saima Andleeb, Irfan Ahmad, Asim Iqbal Bazaz and Oyas Asimi','154 Cytochrome P4501A Detection and Quantification in Relation to different Water quality Parameters of Lake Wular of India Irfan Ahmad Khan.pdf','',1,'Cytochromes P450 (CYP450) enzyme family is a prominent enzyme family that primarily functions in the first phase of xenobiotic detoxification in aquatic species. Stimulation of hepatic CYP1A in fish by specific classes of pollutants serves as an early warning system and the \"most sensitive biological response\" for determining the levels of environmental contamination. This has impacts on human fish intake as well as the health of aquatic organism. Relationship between Cytochrome P4501A (CYP1A) detected in Carassius carassius and water quality parameters like ammonical nitrogen, dissolved oxygen, pH, water temperature of the Wular lake was evaluated. The samples (fishes and water sample) were taken on a monthly basis from the three separate locations of the lake viz., Kulhama, Laherwalpora and Ashtung. Control group was also set up. CYP1A concentration in fishes was detected using Enzyme Linked Immuno Sorbant Assay (ELISA). Using one way analysis of variance, P < 0.05 was obtained which indicated that there was a significant difference (P<0.05) in CYP1A levels among the 4 sampling sites viz., Kulhama, Laherwalpora, Ashtung and control group. CYP1A showed significant +ve correlation with ammonical nitrogen (r= 0.872, P< 0.01); orthophosphate (r= 0.856, P< 0.01) as well as with pH ((r= 0.690, P< 0.01). However significant -ve correlation was obtained between CYP1A and dissolved oxygen (r= -0.418, P< 0.01); CYP1A and water temperature (r= - 0.650, P< 0.01). Although there haven\'t been many studies on the relationships between cytochrome P4501A and water quality, this study discusses how these enzymes (bioindicators) are related to water quality parameters, serving as biomarkers of pollution.','Wular lake, CYP1A, Ammonical nitrogen, Orthophosphate, Dissolved oxygen','The need to identify and assess the implications of pollution, often small concentrations of increasingly complicated mixtures, prompted the development of molecular markers or biomarkers. Utilizing monitoring programmes, it is possible to assess the rates of environmental deterioration and risk associated with it. Because of its sensitivity to extremely low concentrations of pollutants that may otherwise not be identified by any other lab procedure, cytochrome P450 enzymes (CYPs) have been demonstrated to be the best susceptible biomarker for water contamination detection till date. The present study thus demonstrated the relationship of CYP1A with various water parameters. It was found that CYP1A showed significant positive relation with ammonical nitrogen, orthophosphate and pH. While as, significant negative relationship was obtained between CYP1A, dissolved oxygen and water temperature. In eutrophic environments, fish at the top of the food chain and top consumers are prone to accumulate contaminants from their surroundings, and the resulting high CYP levels may be utilized as a possible signal of stress in fish. ','-','Saima Andleeb, Irfan Ahmad, Asim Iqbal Bazaz and Oyas Asimi (2022). Cytochrome P4501A Detection and Quantification in Relation to different Water quality Parameters of Lake Wular of India. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 14(4): 866-875.'),(5728,'146','Multivariate based Genetic Diversity Analysis among Linseed (Linum usitatissimum L.) Germplasm Accessions by Principle Component Analysis','Konreddy Sathish, Deepika Parte, Khemlata Thakur, Deenanath Sahu, T. Lakshmi Pathy and Nandan Mehta','155 Multivariate based Genetic Diversity Analysis among Linseed _Linum usitatissimum L._ Germplasm Accessions by Principle Component Analysis Konreddy Sathish.pdf','',1,'The present study was conducted at the research cum Instructional farm, Indira Gandhi Krishi Vishwavidyalaya, (IGKV), Raipur, India. A total of 100 linseed genotypes and four standard checks were evaluated in Augmented RBD design during two rabi seasons rabi 2020-2021 and rabi 2021-2022. To estimate the genetic diversity the observations were recorded for 10 quantitative yield attributing traits viz., days to 50% flowering, days to maturity, plant height (cm), number of primary branches plant-1, number of secondary branches plant-1, number of capsules plant-1, number of seeds capsule-1, 1000 seed weight (g), seed yield plant-1, oil content (%) to determine multivariate based diversity analysis using Principle Component Analysis (PCA). Crop diversity studies provides scope for plant breeders for the development of novel and improved cultivars with most desirable traits by selecting suitable parents and also in studying the magnitude of genetic variability present in the germplasm accessions. Therefore, the present study on agro-morphological traits to identify the superior germplasm accessions that can contribute as potential donors for future exploitation in the selection and breeding of linseed.','Augmented design, genetic diversity, Principle Component Analysis (PCA), germplasm','By Principal component analysis (PCA) few important traits were identified which have a primary role role in categorizing the existing variation in the germplasm accessions studied. The Primary branches plant-1, Secondary branches plant-1, No. of capsules plant-1, and seed yieldplant-1 in different principlecomponents were shown to be the most essential foraccounting the variance. Hence, these characters must be given prior importance while selecting genotypes forvarietal development. Since, within a population variability is the important component plant breeding and also availability of genetic variability is must. From the findings, the high degree of genetic diversity among genotypes was identified, also the traits that are contributing towards thediversity of population. Therefore, the results found from this study will be assisting in selecting suitable parental lines for enhancing different morphological traits.','-','Konreddy Sathish, Deepika Parte, Khemlata Thakur, Deenanath Sahu, T. Lakshmi Pathy and Nandan Mehta (2022). Multivariate based Genetic Diversity Analysis among linseed (Linum usitatissimum L.) Germplasm Accessions by Principle Component Analysis. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 14(4): 876-881.'),(5729,'146','Effect of Gamma Irradiation on quality Parameters in Gladiolus\r\n(Gladiolus hybrida L.)\r\n','Deepa V. Pawadashetti*, R. Vasantha Kumari and M. Thimmarayappa','156 Effect of Gamma Irradiation on quality Parameters in Gladiolus Deepa V. Pawadashett.pdf','',1,'The present investigation was carried out at the Floriculture and Ornamental section, Department of Horticulture, University of Agricultural Sciences, Gandhi Krishi Vignana Kendra, Bengaluru during 2020-22. The experiment was laid out in factorial randomized complete block design replicated thrice with eighteen treatment combinations of varieties and gamma irradiation doses. Six gamma doses i.e., 15 Gy, 25 Gy, 35 Gy, 45 Gy, 55 Gy and control (untreated) as treatments were imposed on three varieties of gladiolus Arka Gold, Arka Pratham and Arka Amar. Number of days taken for sprouting was delayed with increased gamma dosage. The results of two generations (2020-21 and 2021-22) data showed that 25 Gy gamma rays enhanced the most of the quality parameters. Arka Amar showed maximum variations it is on par with Arka Gold. Gamma doses of 55 Gy is not good for quality parameters.','Gladiolus, Arka Gold, Arka Pratham, Arka Amar, gamma rays','In the present investigation gamma irradiation had exerted the significant effect on quality parameters in all three cultivars of gladiolus Gamma irradiation doses at 25 Gy and 15 Gy found beneficial for various traits in gladiolus. Medium to higher doses of gamma rays i.e., 15 Gy, 25 Gy and 35 Gy can applied in gladiolus corms for improvement. In general, the expressions of characters were decreased and retarded with 55 Gy.','-','Deepa V. Pawadashetti, R. Vasantha Kumari and M. Thimmarayappa (2022). Effect of Gamma Irradiation on quality Parameters in Gladiolus (Gladiolus hybrida L.). Biological Forum – An International Journal, 14(4): 882-888.'),(5730,'146','Effect of different Dietary Sources on the Rearing of Amur Carp (Cyprinus carpio haematopterus)','Sudha Shahi, Gajender Singh, Pragya Mehta and Tejpal Dahiya','157 Effect of different Dietary Sources on the Rearing of Amur Carp _Cyprinus carpio haemopterus_ Sudha Shahi.pdf','',1,'Different feeds were incorporated into the diet on the rearing of Cyprinus carpio haematopterus fry for three months as a suitable alternative to reduce the heavy mortality and in acceptability of food. It included T1 (live feed), T2 (live + formulated feed), T3 (formulated feed) and T0 (commercial feed) as a control treatment. 180 fry with initial weight (0.25 gm) and length (2.08 cm) were recorded and divided into 12 groups with 15 fries in each treatment tank. The study showed that all the growth parameters were found significantly (p<0.05) increasing throughout the experiment period. The growth of fish was observed at maximum in T2 treatment and the minimum in control treatment T0. The maximum weight and length were observed in T2 treatment i.e. (5.31±0.01) gm and (5.25 ±0.02) cm, and minimum weight and length were observed in control treatment T0 i.e. (3.37±0.04) gm and (3.10± 0.10) cm. The FCR of (1.30±0.05) was found best in treatment T2. Physico-chemical parameters (DO, pH, electrical conductivity, total alkalinity, total hardness, calcium, magnesium, chloride, and ammonia concentration) were monitored fortnightly throughout the experiment. Maximum survivability was observed of (86.67±3.84) % in treatment T2 and minimum survivability of (77.78±2.20) % and the highest mortality were observed in treatment T3. The experiment\'s result depicted that incorporating a mixed diet of T2 completes the nutrient requirement for the Cyprinus carpio haematopterus fry rearing. It showed that the diet containing both enriched live feed and formulated feed contains all essential nutrients and most acceptable feed at fry stage of fish gave the best results throughout the experiment.','Live feed, fry, water quality, growth, rearing, FCR','The present study showed that the diet containing both enriched live feed and formulated feed contains all essential nutrients and most acceptable feed at fry stage of fish gave the best results throughout the experiment. Zooplanktons such as rotifers, cladocerans, and copepods are the potential fish food organisms that should be used in larval rearing. The live feed incorporation in the initial life stages of fish enhances gut flora and enhance digestibility and FCR of fish fry. Due to the higher risk of mortality in the larval stage, proper care, nutrition, and maintenance protocols should be followed throughout the culture period. Moreover, the water quality parameters should be maintained as the slight environmental stress may risk a large number of fry. Based on investigated findings of the present study, it concluded that if Amur carp is cultured on a large scale, a high profit will be obtained, significantly augmenting monospecies rearing and production. The present study will benefit aquaculturists by reducing the risk of mortality at larval rearing stage and increasing output of total fish production. In this way, food crisis can be combat and food security may be ensured through high-potential food sources across the globe.','-','Sudha Shahi, Gajender Singh, Pragya Mehta and Tejpal Dahiya (2022). Effect of different Dietary Sources on the Rearing of Amur Carp (Cyprinus carpio haemopterus). Biological Forum – An International Journal, 14(4): 889-894.'),(5731,'146','Obstacles Faced by Women Entrepreneurs in the use of ICTs','B. Spandana, B. Jamuna Rani, M. Preethi, K. Aparna and D. Srinivasa Chary','158 Obstacles Faced by Women Entrepreneurs in the use of ICTs B Spandana.pdf','',1,'ICTs are rapidly changing the global scenario, they are becoming a necessary tool for running a competitive business. ICTs facilitated the entry of women into entrepreneurship by allowing them to shift from home-based to office-based, and by opening up online networking opportunities. Women are getting more opportunities in business, but they are also facing challenges. The present study was aimed at studying the difficulties or obstacles faced by women entrepreneurs in the use of ICTs. A total of 180 respondents were selected for the study from Adilabad, Sangareddy and Rangareddy districts of Telangana state. The findings revealed that the high cost of ICTs, a lack of time, frequent changes in ICTs, a lack of training, and a lack of knowledge on the importance of ICTs were the major challenges faced by women entrepreneurs in using ICTs. The findings of the research paper are useful for framing policies that are beneficial to women entrepreneurs.','ICTs, women entrepreneurs, challenges and problems, business and information technology','It can be concluded that, high cost of ICTs, lack of time, frequent changes in ICTs, lack of training, lack of knowledge on importance of ICTs were the major obstacles or challenges faced by women entrepreneurs. The reasons might be that low socio-economic conditions, negligence to use ICT tools, absence of knowledge on the internet and technology. Because of socio-economic conditions, women did not afforded to use such technology, they do not have access and some people do not know basic technical knowledge. Low level of education can also be a reason behind low awareness and low knowledge of ICTs. Hence it could be concluded that ICT training, ICT promotion, ICT courses should be increased to encourage women entrepreneurs to overcome these problems. ICT applications should be created in local languages to solve the problems in using ICTs. Technical empowerment can be achieved through the success of using ICTs. ','-','B. Spandana, B. Jamuna Rani, M. Preethi, K. Aparna and D. Srinivasa Chary (2022). Obstacles Faced by Women Entrepreneurs in the use of ICTs. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 14(4): 895-897.'),(5732,'146','Impact of Mass Media Exposure on coping Mechanisms Adopted by the Women Farmers during Covid-19 Pandemic in Telangana State','K. Sonali, M. Preethi, R. Geetha Reddy and Aparna Kuna','159 Impact of Mass Media Exposure on coping Mechanisms Adopted by the Women Farmers during Covid-19 Pandemic in Telangana State K. Sonali.pdf','',1,'Agriculture is the backbone of Indian economy which was under stress during Covid-19 pandemic. The lockdown imposed by the government during March 2020 had created many problems like shortage of labour, harvesting equipment, fertilizers and pesticides. Women farmers also faced difficulty in selling their crop produce, difficulty due to closed markets, difficulty in finding farm wage employment, lack of transportation and market facilities etc. The present study was conducted to study the impact of mass media exposure on coping mechanisms adopted by the women farmers of Telangana state. Ex-post facto research design was adopted for the study and purposive sampling was adopted for the selection of districts and mandals, whereas villages and respondents were selected randomly. A total of 120 sample were taken for the study from three districts i.e. Rangareddy, Medchal-Malkajgiri and Karimnagar. The findings showed that majority of the respondents (50.83%) belonged to middle age group, 65.00 percent of the respondents were illiterates, 55.00 percent of the respondents belonged to medium family income group and 67.50 percent of the respondents had low mass media exposure. Cent percent (100%) of the respondents had adopted medium coping mechanisms and none of them fell in low and high categories. There was a significant relation between the mass media exposure and coping mechanisms adopted by the women farmers during Covid-19 pandemic (r = 0.304**). During Covid-19 pandemic mass media played an important role in disseminating the current news updates to the public. It also informed the public about Covid-19 protocols which were given by the government. In order to strengthen their coping mechanisms, women farmers can be capacitated to overcome present problems and to able to mitigate such situations in future.','Women farmers, mass media exposure, coping mechanisms, Covid-19 pandemic','Results indicated that the majority (67.50%) of the respondents had low mass media exposure and remaining (32.50%) had medium mass media exposure. All the respondents (cent percent) adopted medium coping mechanisms. The correlation between the mass media exposure and coping mechanisms adopted by the women farmers during Covid-19 pandemic was positive and significant. Covid-19 pandemic is ongoing global crisis that had spread throughout the world. Due to this pandemic many farming families were affected. Most of the women farmers belonged to middle age group, illiterates and were neither trained formally nor informally in order to face such sudden situation. Hence, mass media worked as information platform to many women farmers and promoted positive environment during Covid-19 pandemic. Media had simultaneously kept the viewers informed about current events and not to forward any misleading information related to pandemic. Media also motivated the public to follow the safety measures in order to cope up with the Covid-19 pandemic. ','-','K. Sonali, M. Preethi, R. Geetha Reddy and Aparna Kuna (2022). Impact of Mass Media Exposure on coping Mechanisms Adopted by the Women Farmers during Covid-19 Pandemic in Telangana State. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 14(4): 898-901.'),(5733,'147','Studies on Integrated Pest Management of Tomato Pin worm, Phthorimaea absoluta (Meyrick) under Naturally Ventilated Polyhouse condition','Arpitha G.R., L. Hanumantharaya, Suchithra Kumari M.H., Chandrashekar S.Y. and B.N. Harish Babu','12 Studies on Integrated Pest Management of Tomato Pin worm, Phthorimaea absoluta _Meyrick_ under Naturally Ventilated Polyhouse condition L. Hanumantharaya.pdf','',1,'The studies on evaluation of IPM modules for the management of pin worm, Phthorimaea absoluta (Meyrick) were carried out on tomato cultivar, Arka Abhedh. The experiment was carried out under naturally ventilated polyhouse condition during 2021-22 at College of Horticulture, Mudigere. The experiment was laid out in Randomized Complete Block Design, comprising four treatments with five replications. Observations were recorded at 10 days intervals. Module 1 consisting of seed treatment with imidacloprid 48 % FS @ 7g/kg of seeds, seedling dip with imidacloprid 17.8 SC @ 0.5 ml/l, collection and destruction of infested leaves, installation of sticky traps at 30/1000 m2 area, installation of sex pheromone traps 20/1000 m2 area and spraying of chlorantraniliprole 18.5 SC @ 0.3 ml/l, spinoteram12 SC @ 1.25 ml/l followed by flubendiamide 480 SC @ 0.3 ml/l proved to be better in reducing tomato pin worm population under naturally ventilated polyhouse condition. ','IPM, tomato pin worm, contact and stomach insecticides, polyhouse','From the present investigation, it could be concluded that Module 1 consisting of seed treatment with imidacloprid 48 % FS @ 7g/kg of seeds, seedling dip with imidacloprid 17.8 SC @ 0.5 ml/l , collection and destruction of infested leaves, installation of sticky traps at 30/1000 m2 area, installation of sex pheromone traps 20/1000 m2 area and spraying of chlorantraniliprole 18.5 SC @ 0.3 ml/l, spinoteram12 SC @ 1.25 ml/l followed by flubendiamide 480 SC @ 0.3 ml/l proved to be better in reducing tomato pin worm population under naturally ventilated polyhouse condition. ','-','Arpitha G.R., L. Hanumantharaya, Suchithra Kumari M.H., Chandrashekar S.Y. and B.N. Harish Babu (2022). Studies on Integrated Pest Management of Tomato Pin worm, Phthorimaea absoluta (Meyrick) under Naturally Ventilated Polyhouse Condition. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 14(4a): 65-68.'),(5734,'146','Biogenesis, Gene expression Pattern and Manipulation of Volatile Metabolic Profile by Fragrance Engineering for Ornamental crops: A Review','R.M. Mangroliya, Sudha Patil, J.J. Patel and B. R. Gondaliya','160 Biogenesis, Gene expression Pattern and Manipulation of Volatile Metabolic Profile by Fragrance Engineering for Ornamental crops A Review R.M. Mangroliya.pdf','',1,'Floral fragrance plays a significant part in many plants\' reproductive processes and has a significant economic value in ensuring crop production and quality in many cases. Cut flowers and decorative plants\' aesthetic qualities are also improved. Terpenoid or phenylpropanoid/benzenoid families of chemicals are home to many volatile components of flower scents. Despite the fact that research into the biochemistry of floral fragrance is still in its infancy, in the last ten years experts have started to pinpoint \"scent genes\" and their expression patterns. A number of these genes, the majority of which, but not all, encode enzymes that catalyze the direct synthesis of volatile terpenoid or phenylpropanoid/benzenoid chemicals, have now been utilized to genetically edit the volatile mixture released from the flowers of various plant species. The results of these investigations, which are presented below, have shown promise for the genetic engineering method of changing flower smells.','Economic value, scent genes, enzymes, volatile mixture, biochemistry','We have made considerable advancements in the past several years in both the capacity to control the volatile spectrum in plants and the identification of the genes and enzymes involved in the manufacture of volatile chemicals (Table 1). A lack of a thorough understanding of plant metabolic networks and their regulation, as well as our limited understanding of network organization, the subcellular localization of the involved enzyme, competing pathways, metabolic channeling, flux-controlling steps, and potential feedback control, are highlighted by the fact that metabolic manipulations frequently produce unpredictable results. The discovery of essential chemicals involved in volatile-induced plant defenses, insect attraction, and their impacts on insect behavior in field experiments will also significantly aid in target selection. There is no doubt that it is now feasible to modify plants such that they can produce and release more volatiles from their blooms.','-','R.M. Mangroliya, Sudha Patil, J.J. Patel and B. R. Gondaliya (2022). Biogenesis, Gene expression Pattern and Manipulation of Volatile Metabolic Profile by Fragrance Engineering for Ornamental crops: A Review. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 14(4): 902-910.'),(5735,'146','Evaluation of Most suitable Medium for the Mass Production of Entomopathogenic Fungi Beauveria bassiana','Narne Kavya, Rajendra Singh, Ravi Shanker, Polimera Prasanth, Alok and Sachin Arya','161 Evaluation of Most suitable Medium for the Mass Production of Entomopathogenic Fungi Beauveria bassiana Narne Kavya.pdf','',1,'B. bassiana is the most important and widely used entomopathogenic fungi for pest control but multiplication of adequate and good quality inoculum is important component in bio control approach. Solid media such as grains of rice, wheat, gram, pegion pea, vermicompost, Corcyra rearing waste and liquid media such as Potato Dextrose Broth (PDB) and Sabouraud’s Dextrose Broth (SDB) were evaluated for the mass production of B. bassiana. Results showed that Rice supported maximum conidial count at all 10, 20 and 30 days after incubation. Among liquid media, SDB supported maximum conidial count. Highest mean dry weight was recorded on gram followed by SDB. The highest growth rate of conidia was recorded on pigeonpea at from 10 to 20 days.','B. bassiana, entomopathogenic fungi, Solid media, liquid media, Conidia, Mass production','These findings concluded that all the solid and liquid media used as substrate supported the growth of B. bassiana. Spores are germinated irrespective of the substrate used as a medium for the growth of fungus. However, highest quantity of conidia was produced in the Rice among solid media and SDB yielded maximum conidia among liquid media. Hence rice is the best media for the mass multiplication of B.bassiana. Research has to be done to commercialization of bio-pesticides and made them easily available to the farmers at reasonable price.','-','Narne Kavya, Rajendra Singh, Ravi Shanker, Polimera Prasanth, Alok and Sachin Arya (2022). Evaluation of Most suitable Medium for the Mass Production of Entomopathogenic Fungi Beauveria bassiana. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 14(4): 911-915.'),(5736,'146','Effect of Sulphur and Zinc Levels on Performance and Factor Productivity of Indian Mustard [Brassica juncea L.] Czern and Cosson] in Malwa Region','Kalu Singh, Ashish Dwivedi, Praveen Kumar and Vishal Sarsaiya','162 Effect of Sulphur and Zinc Levels on Performance and Factor Productivity of Indian Mustard [Brassica juncea L.] Czern and Cosson] in Malwa Region Praveen Kumar.pdf','',1,'A field study was studied on the nutrient managements through different inorganic sources of Sulphur and Zinc in order to achieve the maximum plant height, number of primary branches, number of secondary branches, dry weight (g), grain/seed yield (q/ha), stover yield (q/ha), biological yield (q/ha), crop growth rate, relative growth and absolute growth rate and total cost of cultivation at harvest at different duration and at harvest stage. Amongst the different treatments for the different parameters viz., maximum crop growth rate, relative growth and absolute growth rate. The findings of present study indicated that growth attributes of crop significantly influence by integrated use of inorganic fertilizers during the period. Significantly at harvest the maximum crop growth rate, relative growth and absolute growth rate was recorded with Sulphur levels S4 (60 Kg/ha) in plot T4. Similarly, for the Zinc at harvest the best treatments maximum crop growth rate, relative growth and absolute growth rate was recorded with Zinc levels Z4 (7.5 Kg/ha) in plot T8 under Malwa region of Madhya Pradesh.','Growth, Inorganic, Mustard, Nutrient, Physiological, Sulphur, Zinc','All the treatments showed significant differences for most of the traits under study. The maximum yield per ha was recorded with sulphur levels S4 (60 Kg/ha) significantly maximum with sulphur levels S4 (60 Kg/ha) and the Zinc levels Z4 (7.5Kg/ha). The interaction effect between Sulphur and Zinc at harvest, the data observed was significantly higher with Sulphur and Zinc levels S4Z4 (40 Kg/ha and 5 kg/ha). While minimum yield per ha was recorded with control plot. Despite the fact that other treatments fairly yielded good production but in terms of economics and cost benefit analysis the above discussed treatments T15 and T16 were cost effective under the present study, as they yielded and generated the desired net income and thus economical for the present study. Therefore, it can be concluded that combination of sulphur levels S4 (60 Kg/ha) and the Zinc levels Z4 (7.5Kg/ha) doses is best suited for the present study. Hence, the above treatment can be suggested as a combination for getting higher yield with greater quantity on sustainable basis.','-','Kalu Singh, Ashish Dwivedi, Praveen Kumar, Vishal Sarsaiya (2022). Effect of Sulphur and Zinc Levels on Performance and Factor Productivity of Indian Mustard [Brassica Juncea L.] Czern and Cosson] in Malwa Region. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 14(4): 916-925.'),(5737,'146','Evaluation of Genetic Variability in Mutants of Black Turmeric','Anitta Benny, Bhoomika H.R., Dushyantha Kumar B.M., Ganapathi M. and Ravi C.S.','163 Evaluation of Genetic Variability in Mutants of Black Turmeric Bhoomika H.pdf','',1,'A study on mutagenic studies in black turmeric (Curcuma caesia Roxb.)” was carried out at College of Horticulture, Mudigere during the year 2021-22. Black turmeric is an underexploited medicinal plant of Zingiberaceae family. Since it is a vegetatively propagated crop, induction of mutation and isolation of desirable mutants are the means for producing genetic variability. Mutagens like gamma rays (10, 15, 20, 25, 30, 35 Gy), EMS (1, 1.25, 1.5 %) and colchicine (0.1, 0.2, 0.3 %) were used along with untreated control. The experiment was laid out in RCBD design with thirteen treatments and two replication. There was a slight difference between GCV and PCV for all the characters indicating they were least affected by the environment. High heritability coupled with high genetic advance over percent mean were observed for all the yield parameters which indicates that these traits are under the influence of additive gene action which can be improved through selection.','Black turmeric, GCV, PCV, heritability, genetic advance over percent mean','Mutation treatment resulted in creation of variability in the existing black turmeric population. A moderate to high estimate of GCV and PCV were recorded for all the growth and yield parameters. High heritability coupled with high genetic advance over per cent mean were noticed for the all the yield parameters.','-','Anitta Benny, Bhoomika H.R., Dushyantha Kumar B.M., Ganapathi M. and Ravi C.S. (2022). Evaluation of Genetic Variability in Mutants of Black Turmeric. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 14(4): 926-928.'),(5738,'146','Effectiveness of the PJTSAU Agricultural Videos of the YouTube Channel','Manichandana G., Vijaya Lakshmi P. and Sreenivasa Rao I.\r\n ','164 Effectiveness of the PJTSAU Agricultural Videos of the YouTube Channel Manichandana G.pdf','',1,'YouTube for Indian farmers’ is now a full national and international network for sharing agriculture know-how. For Indian farmers, these videos are not only a rich source of information and helping hacks, but they also help in building a community of farmers. These channels help in knowing how farm works, operating equipment’s, daily activities, farm marketing, marketing solutions, organic farming, growing vegetables, usage of organic pesticides, manures and many more. Thus, PJTSAU Agricultural videos of YouTube channel is providing information on different crops and their success stories to the farming community. The study carried out in 3 districts of central Telangana zone with the help of constructed schedule to collect the research data. The findings revealed that majority of the respondents belonged to medium level category (46.7%) according to the effectiveness of the paddy videos as perceived whereas majority of the respondents belonged to medium level category (46.6%) according to the effectiveness of the cotton videos by considering the video parameters like video title, description, thumbnail, content, resolution, acoustics, frame rate, hue and colour intensity. The study had some challenges include technological adoptions and effectiveness of videos regarding production and use.','YouTube channel, Effectiveness of videos','Based on the discussions of findings, it is clear that the video-based learning technology opens up many opportunities to farmers, department officials, scientists, change agents, administrators and many more. Videos as an emerging tool, popular trends on the web and new ways of media production are widely offered for producing and sharing the agricultural information. As per farmers, most of time using YouTube online is very difficult due to the weakness of the internet connection (Paul Van Mele, 2011). By considering both internet accessibility and bandwidth as key issues, there is a need to address improvement of networking between organizations and physical sharing of video discs. Apart from offering an excellent experimental ground on structuring and monitoring a web-based platform, the videos along with the statistics and farmer feedback could offer a good starting point to make decisions for better quality scripted videos that will be suited for global sharing and use by a wide range of service providers.','-','Manichandana G., Vijaya Lakshmi P. and Sreenivasa Rao I. (2022). Effectiveness of the PJTSAU Agricultural Videos of the YouTube Channel. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 14(4): 929-934.'),(5739,'146','Correlation and Path coefficient Analysis for Yield and Yield Attributing Traits in Cashew (Anacardium occidentale L.) Genotypes','Chaithra K., Bhoomika H.R., Veena G.L., Dushyantha Kumar B.M., Shivaprasad M. and Ravi C.S.','165 Correlation and Path coefficient Analysis for Yield and Yield Attributing Traits in Cashew _Anacardium occidentale L._ Genotypes Bhoomika H.pdf','',1,'An experiment was conducted to study the correlation and path analysis of fifteen cashew genotypes in DCR, Puttur. Results indicated that in correlation studies nut yield per tree has shown highly significant positive correlation with apple yield per tree and the traits viz., sex ratio and number of nuts per panicle had significant positive correlation with nut yield per tree. Path coefficient analysis revealed that the traits, canopy spread, sex ratio, nut weight and apple yield per tree showed direct positive effect on nut yield per tree indicating the utilization of these parameters in crop improvement programme to evolve high yielding cashew varieties. ','Correlation, Path analysis, Cashew, Genotype','Based on the above results it can be concluded that nut yield can be improved by selecting accessions having more sex ratio, number of nuts per panicle and apple yield per tree. Because these characters had shown significant positive correlation with the nut yield per tree. \r\nResults of the phenotypic path analysis revealed that, out of eleven characters studied, four characters showed positive and direct effect on nut yield per tree at phenotypic level viz., canopy spread, sex ratio, nut weight and apple yield per tree.\r\n','-','Chaithra K., Bhoomika H.R., Veena G.L., Dushyantha Kumar B.M., Shivaprasad M. and Ravi C.S. (2022). Correlation and Path coefficient Analysis for Yield and Yield Attributing Traits in Cashew (Anacardium occidentale L.) Genotypes. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 14(4): 935-937.'),(5740,'147','Validation of Pink Bollworm, Pectinophora gossypiella (Saunders) Management Strategies in Bt Transgenic Cotton','Band S.S., Hemant Baheti and Sangesh Surve','13 Validation of Pink Bollworm, Pectinophora gossypiella _Saunders_ Management Strategies in Bt Transgenic Cotton BAND S.pdf','',1,'During 2019-20 and 2020-21, a two-year field study was conducted on fifty cotton farmer fields in the Jalgaon District (MH) to validate pink bollworm management strategies in Bt cotton. Each farmer was assigned one acre as a demo plot where all of the prescribed pink bollworm management strategies were demonstrated, and five other farmers from each village were assigned as a check plot. The recommended pest management strategies were implemented once the pink bollworm reached economic threshold levels, i.e. eight to ten adult moth catches in pheromone traps for three consecutive days and 10% green boll observed during destructive sampling. A two-year study found that the average Pink bollworm infestation ranged from 4.50-20.70 percent in demonstration plots and 14.80-40.50 percent in farmer\'s practises (Check) plots. In the demonstration and control plots, the average number of insecticidal sprays for pink bollworm was 2.29 and 3.55, respectively. In the demonstration and control plots, the average seed cotton yields were 1719.70 and 1463.10 kg/ha, respectively. The cost-benefit ratios for the demonstration and check plots were 1:1.84 and 1:1.41, respectively. Pesticide use has been reduced by 32.13 percent. Critical inputs like insecticides, trichocards were supplied to the beneficiary farmers. Voice message were send to the farmers regarding management of pink bollworm in cotton. Standard meteorological week wise observation also records though large number of field visits. ','Boll damage, Cotton, Evaluation, IPM, field Pink bollworm, Management','According to the study mentioned above, the bio-intensive module-based pink bollworm management strategies mentioned above can be used to manage the pink bollworm in Bt cotton effectively. Chemical insecticides are ineffective against the pink bollworm on their own because they increase cultivation costs, harm ecosystems, leave behind more pesticide residues, and have lower net returns.','-','Band S.S., Hemant Baheti and Sangesh Surve (2022). Validation of Pink Bollworm, Pectinophora gossypiella (Saunders) Management Strategies in Bt Transgenic Cotton. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 14(4a): 69-73.'),(5741,'146','Analysis of Drought using NDVI and Land Surface Temperature derived indices- a Case Study of Sangareddy District','Rachana V., Sahithi P., Ramya N., Prasanna P., Hari Prasad and Radha Srivalli','166 Analysis of Drought using NDVI and Land Surface Temperature derived indices- a Case Study of Sangareddy District Radha Srivalli.pdf','',1,'Drought is one of the natural hazards characterized by shortage of water supply due to irregularities in the rainfall and increase in temperature rate that ultimately declines the moisture content and productivity of crops. The agriculture sector gets severely affected by these droughts impacting the livelihood of people depending on it. The present study was undertaken to estimate agriculture drought in Kandi mandal, Sangareddy district using geospatial techniques. The assessment of drought is done using indices NDVI (Normalized difference vegetation index), LST (land surface temperature), TCI (Temperature condition index), VCI (Vegetative condition index) & VHI (Vegetation condition index) for drought and normal year. The drought severity was triggered out in 2015-2016 due to the decreasing trend of vegetation identified from Normalized Difference Vegetation Index (NDVI). It was also noticed that both NDVI and LST values are inversely proportional to each other in both drought and normal year. When the temperature is more, the NDVI value found to be lesser which represents decrease in the vegetation density. The overall health of vegetation during drought and normal year monitored using Vegetation Health Index (VHI). The seasonal agricultural drought severity map block wise provides an overall idea of drought risk will help in planning the cropping pattern.','Agriculture drought, Geospatial techniques, NDVI, LST, VHI','The objective of the work was to study agriculture drought based on remote sensing indices. The obtained area under drought from VCI, TCI was analysed for its merits and demerits. It is observed that VCI which is solely depending on vegetation index gives low values in December due to the presence of cloud cover. Similarly, TCI gives high values in February misinterpreting harvested areas as drought and over predicts. A combined approach of VCI and TCI was used to better understand and map the drought affected areas. From the generated results it was found that 12% of the total area suffered with drought in December 2016 and 84% in February 2016; mild drought observed in non drought year for both the months. Further investigations need to be done block wise for drought affected sites, available water resources and cropping pattern which will help farmers to overcome drought situations. ','-','Rachana V., Sahithi P., Ramya N., Prasanna P., Hari Prasad and Radha Srivalli (2022). Analysis of Drought using NDVI and Land Surface Temperature derived indices- a Case Study of Sangareddy District. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 14(4): 938-943.'),(5742,'136','Comparative Analysis of Leaf Nutrients and Fruit Attributes of Pear Orchard under Central Zone of Punjab','Navdeep Singh*, Harpreet Kaur and Sukhdev Singh','287 Comparative Analysis of Leaf Nutrients and Fruit Attributes of Pear Orchard under Central Zone of Punjab Harpreet Kaur.pdf','',1,'In order to assess how leaf nutrient content affected the fruit yield and quality indicators of the pear cultivar \"Patharnakh\" in the central zone of Punjab, a study was carried out. The results of the study revealed that 13, 10, 30, and 30% of orchards had insufficient leaf N, P, K, and Cu, respectively. However, higher range of N (56%) and P (60%) was noted in leaf sample collected from the selected orchards. Leaf N and K has shown statistically significant and positive relation with tree spread, fruit size and fruit yield whereas, leaf Ca, Cu, Mn and Fe showed negative correlations with fruit yield in the surveyed orchards but results were statistically non-significant. Likewise, Leaf Ca found positive and significant correlation with tree girth and fruit firmness. The present study had shown positive relationships between fruit quality attributes and leaf mineral concentrations to highlight the importance of fertilizer management which will be help in production good quality pear fruits. Additionally, studies help in fertiliser application dosage estimation.','Fruit quality, Leaf nutrients, Pear , cultivar, correlation','One of the main elements affecting the production and quality of agricultural plants is plant nutrition. The growth and development of plants are determined by all necessary ingredients (Rathore, 1991). There is a correlation between a nutrient\'s content in the soil and in plants and the fruit production as well as its qualitative characteristics. This may be used as a guide to have the best quality and fruit yield possible. According to Awasthi et al. (1998), there is a correlation between apple yield and quality. The production and quality indices of the pear fruit under study are therefore affected by the nutrients in the soil.','-','Navdeep Singh, Harpreet Kaur and Sukhdev Singh (2022). Comparative Analysis of Leaf Nutrients and Fruit Attributes of Pear Orchard under Central Zone of Punjab. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 14(3): 1678-1681.'),(5743,'136','Evaluation of surface Water quality Parameters at different Sites of Wular Lake of Kashmir Himalayas','Saima Andleeb, Irfan Ahmad, Asim Iqbal Bazaz, Mehak Hafeez, Azra Shah and Durdana Qazi','288 Evaluation of surface Water quality Parameters at different Sites of Wular Lake of Kashmir Himalayas Saima Andleeb.pdf','',1,'Due to overpopulation and development activities that have exploited and degraded the water resources at our disposal, water quality has become a global problem. f this context, an attempt has been made to evaluate the water quality in Lake Wular of Jammu & Kashmir, India. It is an ox-bow type lake of fluviatile origin and India’s largest fresh water lake located in Bandipora district in the UT of Jammu and Kashmir. Parameters like total phosphorous, nitrate nitrogen, ammonical nitrogen, dissolved oxygen, water temperature and pH were determined at the sampling sites and detailed analysis of samples were carried out using the methods outlined in American Public Health Association. Site E recorded maximum average concentration of total phosphorous concentration (408.8±16.48µg/l) as well as maximum average of nitrate nitrogen (440.7±41.04 µg/l). Negative significant correlation was recorded between nitrate and phosphate levels of the lake (r= -0.816; P<0.01). Mean concentration of ammonical nitrogen recorded was maximum of 368.32±11.87 µg/l in the month of February. Dissolved oxygen concentration ranged between 6.42±0.18 to 8.68±0.22 in summer and winter months respectively. Also, there was also a positive correlation between temperature and pH (r=0.807, p<0.01) and pH and dissolved oxygen (r= 0.579; P<0.01). From the present study, it was concluded that Wular Lake falls under eutrophic category.','Ammonia, Dissolved oxygen, Nitrate, Phosphate, Wular Lake','From the current study, it is concluded that the physico-chemical characteristics of the water have either directly or indirectly impacted the trophic status of the Lake as a result of significant anthropogenic pressure, pollution load, organic matter outcome, massive amounts of raw sewage, direct drainages, etc. These shifting circumstances have brought this Lake to a critical stage in terms of ecology, and if suitable conservation measures are not implemented in the future, the Lake would certainly degrade further. As a result, adequate management measures must be implemented by government officials and local residents to prevent the lake from degrading further.','-','Saima Andleeb, Irfan Ahmad, Asim Iqbal Bazaz, Mehak Hafeez, Azra Shah and Durdana Qazi (2022). Evaluation of surface Water quality Parameters at different Sites of Wular Lake of Kashmir Himalayas. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 14(3): 1682-1689.'),(5744,'146','Influence of different Growth Substrates and their Combination on Nutritional and Mineral contents of Oyster Mushroom (Pleurotus florida)','K. Kundu, S. Patar, S. Mukhopadhyay, A. Roy Barman, S. Dutta and S.K. Ray','167 Influence of different Growth Substrates and their Combination on Nutritional and Mineral contents of Oyster Mushroom _Pleurotus florida_ S.K. Ray.pdf','',1,'The effect of different growth substrates on nutritional (moisture percent, vitamin-c, carbohydrate, protein & ash) and mineral (Zn, Fe & Mn) contents of oyster mushroom (Pleurotus florida) was studied in the present investigation. In India, rice straw is mainly used as substrate for large scale mushroom production. But there are other materials also which are cheaper than rice straw and can also enhance the nutritional quality of mushroom. Thus, to explore those cheap and easily available growth substrates other than rice straw, the effect of seven substrates including rice straw (RS), newspapers (NP), coconut husk (CH), sugarcane bagasse (SB), wood residue (WR), sal leaves (SL) (Shorea robusta), and Lantana camara (LC) were studied solely and in combinations viz. RS+NP, RS+ SL, and NP + SL@ 1:3, 1:1, and 3:1 ratio. The results indicated that when the oyster mushroom grown solely on different growth substrates, mushroom harvested from LC had highest moisture (96.13%) and zinc (10.42 mg/ 100gdry weight/dw), whereas RS had highest vitamin-c (11.51 mg/100 g fresh weight/fw) and manganese (3.63mg/100gdw) content. Mushroom grown on SB reported maximum carbohydrate (43.96g/ 100g dw). Highest amount of protein (29.44g/ 100g dw) was obtained from SL. Among the different substrate combinations highest vitamin-c (11.50mg /100 g fw) and manganese (3.11 mg/100g dw) were reported from RS + NP (3:1); highest carbohydrate (38.17g/ 100g dw) from RS + SL (3:1); highest protein (26.46g/ 100g dw) from RS + SL (1:3); highest ash (10.96g/ 100g dw) and iron (18.87 mg/ 100g dw) from RS + NP (1:3).','Growth substrates, mineral content, nutritional content, oyster mushroom','Based on the studies of the present investigation it can be recommended that apart from our traditionally used rice straw other agro-wastes like sal leaves, Lantana camara etc. can also be used for small- and large-scale production of oyster mushroom maintaining all its nutritional parameters as high as rice straw.','-','K. Kundu, S. Patar, S. Mukhopadhyay, A. Roy Barman, S. Dutta and S.K. Ray (2022). Influence of different growth substrates and their combination on nutritional and mineral contents of Oyster mushroom (Pleurotus florida). Biological Forum – An International Journal, 14(4): 944-951.'),(5745,'146','Survey of Banana Skipper, Erionota torus (Evans.) in Sindhudurg District of Maharashtra','Munj S.S., Gurav S.S., Mule R.S., Munj A.Y., Debaje P.B., Malshe K.S. and Thakur M.V.','168 Survey of Banana Skipper, Erionota torus _Evans._ in Sindhudurg District of Maharashtra Munj S.pdf','',1,'The present investigation on survey of banana skipper, Erionota torus (Evans.) was carried out in different banana growing talukas of Sindhudurg district in southern Maharashtra, India during the July to November 2021. Survey is important tool in ecology which determines the status of any pest. Banana skipper is newly introduced in Maharashtra hence study on present spread and intensity will be milestone for further management strategies. Fixed plot survey was carried out to know the incidence and intensity of E. torus infestation on banana plantation at an interval of one month from Kudal, Vengurla, Sawantwadi, Malvan and Dodamarg talukas of Sindhudurg district. The incidence of pest started during July and reached peak during August- September. Pest intensity was observed at the peak in the August- September months. Ten orchards were selected from each taluka for recording observations. The results revealed that the average per cent pest incidence and pest intensity in Sindhudurg district were 6.20 and 2.55 per cent, respectively. ','Banana, banana skipper, Erionota torus, pest incidence, pest intensity and survey','The present investigations are based on data obtained from one season. Therefore, in order to arrive at a sound conclusion, it is necessary to continue the studies with long duration trials to monitor the pest infestation at early stage and thus to get higher returns from banana. The outcomes of the current study exhibited that banana leaf roller, Erionota torus (Evans.) is a new pest on banana observed in all banana growing talukas of Sindhudurg districtof Maharashtra. Highest average incidence and intensity were recorded at Kudal taluka in the month of September. This surveyed data would be more helpful to know the exact status and distribution of the pest, Erionota torus (Evans.) in Sindhudurg district.','-','Munj S.S., Gurav S.S., Mule R.S., Munj A.Y., Debaje P.B., Malshe K.S. and Thakur M.V. (2022). Survey of Banana Skipper, Erionota torus (Evans.) in Sindhudurg District of Maharashtra. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 14(4): 952-955.'),(5746,'146','Antibacterial Activity of Lactobacillus casei against Foodborne Pathogens','Anita Raisagar and Sangeeta Shukla','169 Antibacterial Activity of Lactobacillus casei against Foodborne Pathogens Anita Raisagar.pdf','',1,'Use of antibiotic therapy to cure foodborne diseases, imbalance the intestinal microflora which may cause digestive disorders. On the other side, probiotics show both preventive and curative properties and hence, are useful as alternative strategies for foodborne disease prevention and as an alternative to antibiotics. In the present study, the antibacterial potential of probiotic culture against common foodborne pathogens was evaluated in-vitro. Common foodborne bacterial pathogens were isolated from selected food samples and primary identification was done by cultural characterization. For confirmation, molecular characterization was done and foodborne isolates were identified as Escherichia coli, Staphylococcus aureus, Shigella dysenteriae and Salmonella typhi. In the evaluation of antibacterial potential, the selected probiotic culture Lactobacillus casei showed high inhibition capacity against all the isolated foodborne pathogens. Thus, there is a scope to use the selected probiotic bacteria against common foodborne pathogens.','Agar overlayed method, Foodborne pathogens, Inhibition capacity, Lactobacillus casei, Probiotic','From the present study, it is concluded that the selected probiotic culture Lactobacillus casei possesses antibacterial activity against common foodborne pathogens with high inhibition capacity. Therefore, it could be used against foodborne diseases although there is a need of in vivo trials to assess the health benefits provided to the host. There is also a need of conducting further studies on either the same probiotic or on other probiotics against different foodborne pathogens, which proves the use of probiotics against a broad range of pathogens. ','-','Anita Raisagar and Sangeeta Shukla (2022). Antibacterial Activity of Lactobacillus casei against Foodborne Pathogens. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 14(4): 956-960.'),(5747,'146','Effect of Local Bacillus thuringiensis Isolates on Life Stages of Helicoverpa armigera (Hubner) and Spodoptera litura (Fabricus)','Renuka D. Pawar, D.B. Undirwade, U.S. Kulkarni, M.P. Moharil, A.V. Kolhe and S.L. Borkar','170 Effect of Local Bacillus thuringiensis Isolates on Life Stages of Helicoverpa armigera _Hubner_ and Spodoptera litura _Fabricus_ Renuka D. Pawar.pdf','',1,'The present investigation aimed to determine the impact of 11 Bt isolates native to Vidarbha region on biological parameters of H. armigera and S. litura larva which survived the dose of 1mg/ml and 2mg/ml respectively of crude Bt toxin from the isolates. It was evident from the study that even after surviving the given doses of Bt, some of the surviving larvae were unable to grow normally as compare to the larvae without any exposure to Bt toxins. It was recorded that local Bt isolate SY-4 adversely affects H. armigera among all the other isolates including standard Btk HD-1 recording maximum of 36.04, 86.67, 33.15 and 93.33 per cent reduction in larval weight, pupation, pupal weight and adult emergence respectively, similarly highest per cent reduction in fecundity and hatchability of 80.38 % and 45.34% respectively was recorded from pair in which both male and female survived the exposure of local isolate SY-4 during larval stage. In case of S. litura, local isolate SY-4 was found most effective among all the other isolates recording 29.79, 86.67, 60.48 and 93.33 per cent reduction on larval weight, pupation, pupal weight and adult emergence respectively. However SGd-1 adversely affected fecundity and hatchability of S. litura with 64.30 and 44.20 per cent reduction in fecundity and hatchabilty recorded from the pair in which both male and female were exposed to Bt during larval stage. It was evident from the present study that, local Bt isolates, SY-4 and SGd-1 were more potential not only causing mortality but also adversely affecting the normal biology of test insects which survived the exposure of these isolates. ','Bacillus thuringiensis, Bioassay, endotoxin, Helicoverpa armigera, Spodoptera litura','It was evident from the present investigations that all the 11 local Bt isolates have produced significant adverse effects such as reduction in larval and pupal weights, per cent pupation, adult emergence, fecundity and egg hatchability in larvae exposed to treated diet as compared to normal diet. From the data recorded under present study it can be concluded that, the larva of H. armigera and S. litura, surviving the Bt exposed diet, were further unable to grow normally and sustain. In case of H. armigera the isolate SY-4 has an equivalent effect as Btk HD-1 on adult emergence and it has more adverse effects on fecundity and hatchability of H. armigera than Btk HD-1. In case of S. litura, the isolate SY-4 was found equally effective as standard Btk HD-1 in terms of reduction in adult emergence However, the isolate SGd-1 was found to be more potent than the standard strain Btk HD-1 in terms of reduced fecundity and hatchability of S. litura. It was evident from the studies that exposure of larva to Bt during larval stage also have pronounced effects on reproductive capabilities of both male and female members. However the effects were more predominant in female members of both H. armigera and S. litura.','-','Renuka D. Pawar, D.B. Undirwade, U.S. Kulkarni, M.P. Moharil, A.V. Kolhe and S.L. Borkar (2022). Effect of Local Bacillus thuringiensis Isolates on Life Stages of Helicoverpa armigera (Hubner) and Spodoptera litura (Fabricus). Biological Forum – An International Journal, 14(4): 961-968.'),(5748,'146','Effect of different Post-Harvest Treatments on Biochemical Attributes of Aonla cv. Chakaiya','Singh Manmohan, Singh Surender, Yadav Bijender Singh and Mayank','171 Effect of different Post-Harvest Treatments on Biochemical Attributes of Aonla cv. Chakaiya Singh Surender.pdf','',1,'As the aonla fruit is perishable in nature. Therefore, it needs to investigate the post-harvest studies. The study was carried out at Post-harvest Laboratory, Department of Horticulture, College of Agriculture, CCSHAU, Hisar during the year 2020-21, on various biochemical changes in aonla fruits to determine appropriate post-harvest treatment for better quality and desirable shelf life under ambient condition. Effect of post-harvest treatments with GA3 (400, 500 and 600 ppm), Ca(NO3)2 (1.0, 2.0 and 3.0%), KMnO4 (1000, 2000 and 3000 mg) and bael leaf extract (2.0, 3.0 and 4.0%) on the storage behavior of aonla fruits harvested at physiological mature stage were studied. Fruits were stored at room temperature and evaluated on alternate days for various biochemical attributes. Results showed that the fruits treated with GA3600 ppm had the maximum TSS (8.04°Brix) and organoleptic rating (7.3), while the minimum (7.55°Brix and 6.5, respectively) was in control. The highest titratable acidity (1.83%) and ascorbic acid (472.5 mg/100 g) was retained in GA3 600 ppm treated fruits and minimum (1.68% and 456.2 mg/100 g, respectively) in control. The minimum phenol content (1.72%) was observed in fruits treated with GA3 600 ppm and maximum (1.81%) in untreated fruits. The maximum TSS to acid ratio (4.45) was observed in GA3 600 ppm treated fruits and minimum (4.38) in bael leaf extract 2% and 3% treated fruits. In present study, gibberellic acid 600 ppm was proved to be best treatment for maintaining the biochemical attributes of fruits.','TSS, ascorbic acid, aonla, post-harvest treatments, ambient condition, biochemical changes','On the basis of present investigation, it is concluded that among all the treatments, gibberellic acid 600 ppm was proved to be best treatment for maintaining the biochemical attributes of fruits. Fruits treated with gibberellic acid 600 ppm retained excellent titratable acidity and ascorbic acid of fruits. The higher level of total soluble solids (TSS), TSS to acid ratio and organoleptic rating and lower level of phenol content were achieved in gibberellic acid 600 ppm treated fruits, which helps in improving the shelf-life and maintaining acceptable quality of aonla fruits for longer time.','-','Singh Manmohan, Singh Surender, Yadav Bijender Singh and Mayank (2022). Effect of different Post-Harvest Treatments on Biochemical Attributes of Aonla cv. Chakaiya. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 14(4): 970-972.'),(5749,'146','Mepiquat Chloride can Enhance Flowering and Yield in Pomegranate Punica granatum L.) cv. Bhagwa','B.G. Hanumatharaya, Vijaykumar, B.T., Budensha B. and Ashika S.','172 Mepiquat Chloride can Enhance Flowering and Yield in Pomegranate _Punica granatum L._ cv. Bhagwa Vijaykumar B.pdf','',1,'The effect of different concentrations of mepiquat chloride (MC) on flowering, fruiting and yield of pomegranate (Punica granatum L.) was studied in the field trial at Department of Horticulture University of Agricultural Sciences, GKVK, Bengaluru, during august 2019 to May 2020. Mepiquat Chloride 5 % AS at the rate of 50 g a.i. ha-1, 62.5 g a.i. ha-1 and 125 g a.i. ha-1 at 15-20 days prior to initiation of flowering or at the time of initiation of flowering and control were the treatments studied in the present investigation. The application of 125 g a.i. ha-1 at 15-20 days prior to initiation of flowering produced maximum number of bisexual flowers (122.03), average number of fruits per plant (116.00), average length of fruits (9.40 cm), average width of fruits (8.40 cm) and fruit yield per plant (30.91 kg plant-1). From the results of the experiment, it can be concluded that Mepiquat Chloride 5 % AS at the rate 125 g a.i. ha-1 at 15-20 days prior to initiation of flowering was more effective in improving floral, fruit and yield characters in pomegranate cv. Bhagwa. MC has potential to use as flowering and yield enhancer in pomegranate.','Pomegranate, Mepiquate chloride, Bhagwa, Bisexual flowers','Foliar spray of MC 125 g a.i ha-1 at 15-20 days prior to flower initiation led to increase in bisexual flowers (122.03), number of fruits per tree (116.00), fruit length (9.40 cm), width (8.40 cm) and yield ha-1 (12.36 tonnes ha-1). Therefore, a foliar spray of MC 125 g a.i ha-1 at 15-20 days prior to flower initiation can be recommended for fetching higher yield and better-quality fruits of pomegranate under Indian condition. ','-','B.G. Hanumatharaya, Vijaykumar, B.T., Budensha B. and Ashika S. (2022). Mepiquat Chloride can Enhance Flowering and Yield in Pomegranate (Punica granatum L.) cv. Bhagwa. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 14(4): 973-976.'),(5750,'146','Determination of Baseline Values for Susceptibility of Polyphagotarsonemus latus (Tarsonemidae: Acari) to Acaricides','Neenu Augustine, M. Mohan, N. Srinivasa, T. Venkatesan, A. Mohan Rao and P.S. Benherlal','173 Determination of Baseline Values for Susceptibility of Polyphagotarsonemus latus _Tarsonemidae Acari_ to Acaricides Neenu Augustine.pdf','',1,'The broad mite/yellow mite, Polyphagotarsonemus latus (Banks) is an important crop pest damaging several crops including chilli, capsicum, mulberry, jute, tea, sesame, cotton, etc. In India, farmers experience frequent control failures of this mite with several recommended acaricides for which development of acaricide resistance is assumed as the major reason. In order to monitor acaricide resistance in field populations, the availability of a population that is completely susceptible is crucial. To achieve this, an iso-female colony of P. latus was maintained under nethouse conditions for more than 70 generations without exposure to any xenobiotics and leaf dip bioassays were conducted using diafenthiuron, dicofol, propargite and spiromesifen. The LC50 values determined were 0.40 ppm for diafenthiuron, 0.70 ppm for dicofol, 0.37 ppm for propargite and 0.58 ppm for spiromesifen. This is the first report of baseline toxicity data of commonly used acaricidal compounds to P. latus which can serve as reference data in monitoring acaricide resistance in field populations.','Broad mite, Polyphagotarsonemus latus, acaricide, resistance, susceptibility','The control of P. latus is largely accomplished by the use of acaricides. The high reproductive potential and extremely short life cycle of this mite, combined with the frequent applications of acaricides facilitate resistance development in this species. The present study is the first report of baseline toxicity data of commonly used acaricidal compounds to P. latus. The baseline values determined were 0.40 ppm for diafenthiuron, 0.70 ppm for dicofol, 0.37 ppm for propargite and 0.58 ppm for spiromesifen. ','-','Neenu Augustine, M. Mohan, N. Srinivasa, T. Venkatesan, A. Mohan Rao and P.S. Benherlal (2022). Determination of Baseline Values for Susceptibility of Polyphagotarsonemus latus (Tarsonemidae: Acari) to Acaricides. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 14(4): 977-979.'),(5751,'146','Path coefficient and Exploratory Factor Analysis in Rose (Rosa × hybrida L.) Genotypes','Shisa Ullas P., Namita, M.K. Singh, Sapna Panwar, Amitha Mithra Sevanthi, Akshay Talukdar and Kanwar P. Singh','174 Path coefficient and Exploratory Factor Analysis in Rose _Rosa × hybrida L._ Genotypes Namita.pdf','',1,'The present experiment was carried out to analyze the path coefficient and exploratory factors for vegetative and floral traits of ninety-six rose genotypes. The path coefficient analysis provided information about the direct and indirect effect of examined traits on flower weight per plant. Quantitative analysis was carried out for all the characters which are directly or indirectly associated with the yield and yield contributing traits. The highest direct positive effect on flower weight per plant was exhibited by the number of petals per flower followed by bud diameter, petal length, flower diameter, and neck length. The traits such as the number of buds per plant, prickle density, number of secondary branches, and number of primary branches had a direct negative effect on flower weight. Exploratory factor analysis revealed that the number of petals per flower, bud length, prickle density, stem girth, number of flowers per plant, petal length, and flower weight are major factors contributing to the genetic variation in different rose genotypes.','Path analysis, Morphological traits, Exploratory factor analysis, Rose genotypes','For a better understanding of the crop improvement, the path co-efficient analysis and exploratory factor estimate are crucial. It provides precise measurements of each component character\'s direct and indirect effects on flower weight. The conclusion that can be drawn from path coefficient analysis and factor analysis is that the number of petals per flower is the most significant trait for flower weight, followed by bud diameter, petals length, flower diameter, and neck length. Therefore, these traits should be taken into consideration as selection criteria for flower weight, helping to improve yield in rose genotypes.','-','Shisa Ullas P., Namita, M.K. Singh, Sapna Panwar, Amitha Mithra Sevanthi, Akshay Talukdar and Kanwar P. Singh (2022). Path coefficient and Exploratory Factor Analysis in Rose (Rosa × hybrida L.) Genotypes. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 14(4): 980-984.'),(5752,'147','Mutation for Disease Resistance in Fruit Crops- A Review','M.S. Aneesa Rani and Aiswarya Ravi','14 Mutation for Disease Resistance in Fruit Crops- A Review Aiswarya Ravi.pdf','',4,'Mutation breeding techniques are gaining attention in crop improvement which can create desirable variations in the genetic base of plants. Well adapted plant varieties can be improved by modifying one or two major traits, which limit their productivity or quality. Different viral, bacterial and fungal diseases are causing a huge loss in fruit crops, by reducing production and quality. Mutation breeding can be used as an eco-friendly and inexpensive method by creating disease-resistant plants. There are different barriers in fruit breeding and induced mutations help to break these obstacles. Several experiments have been conducted in this area worldwide and several disease-resistant mutant varieties are released for cultivation such as McIntosh 8F-2-32 variety of apple, Smile Heart variety of strawberry and US Furr ST variety of mandarin. The application of induced mutations along with biotechnology, genomics and molecular marker techniques, can speed up fruit breeding. In this paper, induced mutation studies for developing disease resistance in major fruit crops so far are being discussed. In addition, disease-resistant somaclonal variants in different fruit crops are also studied.','Induced Mutation, Disease Resistance, Fruit crops','The development of disease resistance is one of the major goals in fruit breeding since diseases are causing huge losses in different fruit crops. As fruit breeding is being constrained by various limitations, new methods need to be established to develop new varieties. The perusal of different mutagenesis experiments elucidates the importance of induced mutations in fruit crops. In vitro culture combined with induced mutation and molecular techniques speed up the breeding programme. Several disease resistant mutant varieties have been released in different fruit crops which is a breakthrough in fruit cultivation. The use of sequencing techniques helps to identify target-specific genes and easily detect mutations. Nowadays induced mutations are also used to determine the gene/allele function in plants. Mutation studies are to be focused on developing climate-resilient crops as climate change is seriously affecting crop production. Induced mutations coupled with biotechnology and molecular techniques can create better adaptability and higher productivity in crops. Thus mutation breeding coupled with advanced biotechnological tools can be recommended to transform fruit cultivation.','-','M.S. Aneesa Rani and Aiswarya Ravi (2022). Mutation for Disease Resistance in Fruit Crops- A Review. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 14(4a): 74-81.'),(5753,'135','Performance Evaluation of Cotton Stalk Harvesting Machine for ex-situ Application','Er. Ch. Sravan Kumar, K.V. Praksah, B. Sanjeeva Reddy, Sushilendra4, P Vijay Kumar, Krishanmurthy and Nemichandrappa','313 Performance Evaluation of Cotton Stalk Harvesting Machine for ex-situ Application Sravan Kumar.pdf','',4,'Cotton (Gossypium hirsutum) is an important commercial crop in India. Annually 30.79 million tons of cotton stalk residue is being generated in India. In India, after harvesting cotton lint, cotton stalks are removed by either manual uprooting or cutting them using sickle above the ground level, which is a laborious operation and contributes to increase in crop production. After removing cotton stalks from field, farmers are burning cotton stalks in their fields. Burning of stalks increases CO2, CO, N2O and NOx in the atmosphere which leads to increase in air pollution. In India, crop residues are removed by manual uprooting or cutting the stalks which is high labour intensive and contributes towards high cost of crop production. Instead of burning the stalks in fields, cotton stalks have the potential to be used for ex-situ application such as, raw material for briquettes due to its high lingo cellulosic nature. Ex-situ utilization cotton stalk aids in generating additional income to farmers. In order to utilize the cotton stalk for ex-situ application a cotton stalk harvester was developed and evaluated in the field conditions. The developed cotton stalk harvesting machine was evaluated for 3 forward speeds viz., 2, 3 and 4 km h-1. Operation at 2 km h-1 gave the better result with mean chopped length of 112.8 mm, fineness modulus of 1.706, bulk density of 215.33 kgm-3 machine output was recorded as 1379.63 kgh-1 chopping height was recorded as 88 mm and fuel consumption of 6.8 lh-1.','Fineness modulus, Bulk density, machine output, chopping height','In order to utilize the cotton stalk for ex-situ application a cotton stalk harvester was developed and evaluated in the field conditions. The developed cotton stalk harvesting machine was evaluated for 3 forward speeds viz., 2, 3 and 4 km h-1. Operation at 2 km h-1 gave the better result with mean chopped length of 112.8 mm, fineness modulus of 1.706, bulk density of 215.33 kgm-3 machine output was recorded as 1379.63 kgh-1 chopping height was recorded as 88 mm and fuel consumption of 6.8 lh-1.','-','Er. Ch. Sravan Kumar, K.V. Praksah, B. Sanjeeva Reddy, Sushilendra, P Vijay Kumar, Krishanmurthy and Nemichandrappa (2022). Performance Evaluation of Cotton Stalk Harvesting Machine for ex-situ Application. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 14(1): 1803-1812.'),(5754,'113','Comprehending the Globalization and Performance of e-commerce Businesses: Evidence from Amazon, Alibaba, JD.com, and Suning.com','Fredrick Oteng Agyeman, Ma Zhiqiang, Mingxing Li, Agyemang Kwasi Sampene and Robert Brenya','7 Comprehending the Globalization and Performance of e-commerce Businesses Evidence from Amazon, Alibaba, JD.com, and Suning.com Fredrick Oteng Agyeman.pdf','',1,'The overwhelming performance and gradual acceptance of electronic commerce (e-commerce) in the contemporary world are akin to countries\' development. The internationalization and revenue performance of Amazon, JD.com, Alibaba, and Sunning.com in 2020 amongst the top 10 e-commerce industries globally with the highest revenue is worth investigating to determine their enormous contribution and performance. This study adopts the case study methodology to investigate the selected companies, including Amazon, JD.com, Alibaba, and Sunning.com, based on their increased revenue amid the COVID-19 pandemic and the enormous acceptance of their offline to online e-commerce marketing in the 21st Century. Findings of the study indicated that trading had been chiefly geared towards digital channels. Results suggest that e-commerce will continue to rise, reaching 22% in 2023, and by 2040, e-commerce growth will account for more than 95% of all transactions. This study has the challenge of focusing on only the top four global e-commerce companies within 2020 with the most extensive revenue base during the COVID-19 intense period. This study contributes to the existing knowledge on the positive impact of e-commerce adoption and firm performance in challenging periods. This study is the pioneer in investigating the top four global e-commerce companies with the highest performance and revenue by adopting the technology acceptance model (TAM) as the primary conceptual grounds. The TAM model projects that the degree of globalization will directly influence the performance of e-commerce businesses, and technology will continue to expand globally. This study proposes that governments and organizations foster e-commerce technologies in autonomous delivery, telemedicine, education, and live streaming. ','e-commerce; platform business; revenue, technology acceptance model; performance','This paper objectively seeks to broaden the comprehension of the internationalization and performance of the top four e-commerce companies: Amazon, Alibaba, JD.com, and Suning.com, based on a case study method. This study found that e-commerce enterprises with modernized technology will impact how customers choose platforms, products, and services and make purchases. The study\'s findings depict that Amazon possesses 54% of the revenue, JD.com 16%, Alibaba 14%, Suning 7%, and the others occupy about 9%. Knowledge of business-to-consumer e-commerce platform management is essential for a nation\'s development. The internationalization of e-commerce is beneficial for all organizations to experience global interconnectivity. The offline and online worlds are becoming increasingly entwined. The e-commerce industry\'s prospects need to determine the platforms\' differences and similarities and how developing high-tech advancements impact both. Furthermore, these e-commerce conglomerates are implementing a slew of technologically advanced trading techniques. These e-commerce companies are now working to establish a drone delivery system to make goods and services available to customers quickly. Due to unprecedented and uncommon results developments, clients will likely acquire more products from these e-commerce platforms. The search for an avenue to conduct such an important research subject requires further investigation.\r\nContributions of the study. Insight into this study has brought forth more understanding of the factors influencing e-commerce revenue enhancement, strategies to achieving e-commerce enterprise objectives via export and import of products, and the future and benefits of electronic commerce businesses. Knowledge on the shift from traditional to technological e-commerce business in the current business-to-consumer environment would boost the expansion of e-commerce and improve revenues. The results of this paper will support e-commerce businesses, Government, and researchers who aspire to engage in scientific inquiries concerning business-to-consumer e-commerce platform business. The significance of this study is revealed through the technological process acceptance and addressing the factors that increase e-commerce companies\' revenue and customers\' online purchasing decisions in the e-commerce industry. \r\nPractical Implication. E-commerce companies and agencies should solicit views from all stakeholders involved in the value and innovation creation connection of consumers, platforms, and producers to effectively implement new technologies and policies. Thus, consumers\' value and innovation creation composition, platforms, and producers should be highly monitored. Also, governments and agencies should promote e-commerce innovations in autonomous delivery, telemedicine, online education, and live streaming to assist the delivery and purchasing of products in daily transactions and crisis periods such as the COVID-19 pandemic. \r\nPolicy Implication: The focus of every Government in the 21st Century should be geared towards internet infrastructural development. Internet infrastructural development will ensure the free flow of information, interconnectivity, and trade. In addition, competition laws must be revised to counter the winner-take-all tendency of digital platform enterprises. Finally, tax procedures should be modified to remove loopholes that digital platform businesses exploit, ensuring that e-commerce companies pay their fair share of taxes. \r\n','-','Fredrick Oteng Agyeman, Ma Zhiqiang, Mingxing Li, Agyemang Kwasi Sampene and Robert Brenya (2022). Comprehending the Globalization and Performance of e-commerce Businesses: Evidence from Amazon, Alibaba, JD.com, and Suning.com. International Journal on Emerging Technologies, 13(1): 44–55.'),(5755,'113','Linear-Quadratic Regulator-based SSR Mitigation Scheme for SSSC Controller in DFIG-based SERIES Compensated Network','Chirag Rohit, Pranav B. Darji and Hitesh R. Jariwala','8 Linear-Quadratic Regulator-based SSR Mitigation Scheme for SSSC Controller in DFIG-based SERIES Compensated Network CHIRAG ROHIT.pdf','',1,'A wind turbine generator based long transmission network with series capacitance may suffer sub-synchronous oscillations at low wind speed and high compensation. This paper presents an enhancement of sub-synchronous resonance (SSR) stability caused due to extensive series compensation of transmission line using linear quadratic regulation (LQR) based approach for a static synchronous series capacitor (SSSC) in Doubly Fed Induction Generator (DFIG). An extensive use of series compensation even at light wind can cause the prone conditions for invoking SSR in windfarms. Among all the signals of the network, the electromagnetic torque produced by DFIG reflects SSR instability predominantly. Hence the torque signal of DFIG is modulated and voltage injected by SSSC is regulated to dampen the SSR oscillations in the torque signal using the LQR approach. For modulating the torque signal, the actuating efforts are varied by SSSC. The impact of LQR based damping approach for improvement in SSR mode at high compensation levels and low wind speed is examined using eigen value analysis and time domain simulations. The proposed method can effectively improve SSR stability even at low wind speeds and high compensation levels.','Damping Controller, Linear quadratic regulation, sub-synchronous resonance, wind farms','This paper presents the design procedure and ability of LQR with SSSC for the enhancement of SSR alleviation. The LQR-based damping control scheme for the DFIG-based series compensated network minimizes the error of electromagnetic torque of DFIG as it reflects SSR instability superiorly. To alleviate SSR oscillations, the LQR controls the voltage injected by SSSC in order to modulate the torque signal. Since the response of DFIG torque depends on stator and rotor currents, the effectiveness of the proposed approach is shown by choosing the weight matrices to damp SSR oscillation quickly. The eigenvalue results show that LQR shifts and detunes SSR mode and damping ratio has increased significantly. Time domain results also verify the proposed approach\'s effectiveness by exhibiting the damped and stable response of the study system after incorporating LQR control.','-','Chirag Rohit, Pranav B. Darji and Hitesh R. Jariwala (2022). Linear-Quadratic Regulator-based SSR Mitigation Scheme for SSSC Controller in DFIG-based SERIES Compensated Network. International Journal on Emerging Technologies, 13(1): 56–64.'),(5756,'146','Impact of different IPM Modules of Brinjal (Solanum melongena L.) on coccinellid Beetles','Somashekhar Gaddanakeri, S. Pradeep, Sharanabasappa S. Deshmukh, S. Sridhara, Shivanna B.K., D. Thippesha and B. Fakrudin','175 Impact of different IPM Modules of Brinjal _Solanum melongena L._ on coccinellid Beetles S. Pradeep.pdf','',1,'The contribution and safety of the natural enemies is often neglected whenever a module is developed to manage major pest of the crop. So, field experiments were conducted to evaluate the different IPM modules for the management of brinjal shoot and fruit borer, Leucinodes orbonalis along with their safety towards predatory coccinellids during Rabi 2020-21 and Kharif 2021-22 at Zonal Agricultural and Horticultural Research Station (ZAHRS), Shivamogga. The results revealed that the Bio Intensive Pest Management (BIPM) module was ultimately the most promising and recorded higher number of coccinellids compared to IPM module, chemical intensive Farmers practice module and untreated control during both seasons recording mean number of 1.96 adult coccinellids/plant. This highlights the scope to augment the natural enemies and maintain their population under BIPM module through which the infestation of L. orbonalis could be much more reduced.','Leucinodes orbonalis, coccinellids, BIPM, Modules','Our study highlighted the negative impacts of chemical intensive modules on the coccinellid beetles which keep the sucking pest’s population under check. Bio-intensive module, untreated control and also IPM plots maintain significantly higher activity of coccinellids compared to chemical intensive farmers practice module.','-','Somashekhar Gaddanakeri, S. Pradeep, Sharanabasappa, S. Deshmukh, S. Sridhara, Shivanna B.K., D. Thippesha and B. Fakrudin (2022). Impact of different IPM Modules of Brinjal (Solanum melongena L.) on coccinellid Beetles. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 14(4): 985-989.'),(5757,'146','Association Study and Path Analysis for Yield and its component traits in Sesame (Sesamum indicum L.)','Dibyabharati Sahu, Tapash Kumar Mishra, Banshidhar Pradhan, Manasi Dash, K. C. Samal and Rajesh Kumar Kar','176 Association Study and Path Analysis for Yield and its component traits in Sesame _Sesamum indicum L._ Dibyabharati Sahu.pdf','',1,'Direct selection for yield will not be the best strategy for an effective crop improvement programme. So selection of traits which are highly positively correlated with yield and have direct effects on seed yield will be the most effective method for improvement of yield and its component traits simultaneously. In the present investigationyield/plant had significant and positive association with the characters viz. number of capsules/plant, number of seeds/capsule, 1000-seed weight, capsule length and plant height where as it had no significant negative association with any character. Number of capsules/plant had the highest significant direct positive effect on seed yield/plant followed by number of seeds/capsule and 1000-seed weight. The highest significant positive indirect effect on seed yield was observed by 1000-seed weight via number of capsules/plant followed by number of seeds/capsule via capsules/plant.','Association, Direct effect, significant, indirect effect','Number of capsules/plant is the most important trait which has positive significant association with seed yield/ plant as well as highest direct effect for seed yield/plant. The other yield attributing traits like number of seeds/capsule and 1000-seed weight also have positive significant association with yield as well as considerably high positive direct effect towards seed yield / plant. Hence selection for these yield component traits will definitely help in improving the seed yield/plant.','-','Dibyabharati Sahu, Tapash Kumar Mishra, Banshidhar Pradhan, Manasi Dash, K. C. Samal and Rajesh Kumar Kar (2022). Association Study and Path Analysis for Yield and its component traits in Sesame (Sesamum indicum L.). Biological Forum – An International Journal, 14(4): 990-993.'),(5758,'146','Micronutrient Seed Treatments Impact on the quality and Productivity of Bt Cotton in Vertisol','A.S. Kale, V.D. Patil and A.P. Garde','177 Micronutrient Seed Treatments Impact on the quality and Productivity of Bt Cotton in Vertisol A.S. Kale.pdf','',1,'The current study, titled \"Studies on effect of seed treatments on growth, yield and quality and soil nutrient dynamics of Bt cotton in vertisol,\" was conducted in 2017-2018 at the Vasantrao Naik Marathwada Krishi Vidyapeeth in Parbhani at the Department of Soil Science and Agricultural Chemistry. The purpose of this research is to examine how nutritional seed treatments affect the development and output of Bt cotton. In the region, shortages in N, P, K, Zn, Cu, Mn, and Fe are present to varying degrees (100.00%, 89.00%, 86.00%, 15.00%, 12.00%, 23.00% and 42.00%, respectively). Due to their abundance among the nutrients, macronutrients may be administered to soil with ease. Cotton producers are hesitant to administer the micronutrients via the soil, though, because of the low application rate and high expense. Furthermore, it is difficult to evenly distribute the little amount of fertilizer on the soil\'s surface. Growing numbers of experts believe that seed priming is a superior method for improving cotton yields, achieving high seedling vigour, and promoting speedy and uniform emergence. To investigate the impact of nutrient seed treatments on nutrient absorption, Bt cotton quality, and soil nutrient dynamics in vertisol, a field experiment with nine treatments and three replications was conducted. The nutrient seed dressing treatments are T1 – absolute control, T2 - 100% NPK + Zinc Sulphate (ZnSO4), T3 - 100 % N P K + Zn EDTA, T4 - 100% NPK + Borax (B), T5 -100% NPK + Manganese Sulphate (MnSO4), T6 - 100% NPK + Sodium Molybdate (NaMo), T7 - 100% NPK + Copper Nitrate (CuNO3), T8 - 100 % NPK + Ferrous Sulphate (FeSO4), T9 - 100% NPK + Fe EDTA seed application to Bt cotton. The nutrient seed dressing treatment T3 - 100 % NPK + Zn EDTA seed application to Bt cotton found to be effective in improving yield attributing characters like, final plant stand percentages, number of bolls, seed cotton yield, dry matter yield and total biological yield. The highest quality attributing characters like, lint yield, Lint index, ginning percentages and test weight was recorded in the treatment T3 - 100% NPK + Zn EDTA. The fiber quality parameters like upper half mean length, uniformity index, strength, elongity and micronaire value were highest in the treatments T6, T7, T3, T9 and T5 respectively. ','Seed treatments, NPK, Micronutrients, yield attributes, quality parameters','The study concluded that applying 100% NPK + Zn EDTA seed to Bt cotton improved yield attributes such as final plant stand, number of bolls, seed cotton yield, dry matter yield, and total biological yield; as well as quality parameters such as test weight, ginning percentage, lint yield; and fiber quality parameters such as upper half mean length, uniformity index, strength, elongation, and micronaire value. As these results are based on one research trial, it is suggested to conduct a few more trials to arrive at a more concrete conclusion.','-','A.S. Kale, V.D. Patil and A.P. Garde (2022). Micronutrient Seed Treatments Impact on the quality and Productivity of Bt Cotton in Vertisol. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 14(4): 994-999.'),(5759,'146','Germination and Seedling Vigour Studies in Cashew (Anacardium occidentale L) Varieties','Pooja R., Sadashiv Nadukeri, Bhoomika H.R., Shashikala S. Kolakar and Ganapathi M.','178 Germination and Seedling Vigour Studies in Cashew _Anacardium occidentale L_ Varieties Sadashiv Nadukeri.pdf','',1,'An experiment was carried out to study the germination and seedling vigour in different cashew varieties at the Agricultural and Horticultural Research Station, Bavikere with ten cashew varieties (Ullal-1, Ullal-2, Ullal-4, VRI-1, VRI-3, Vengurla-3, Vengurla-4, Vengurla-7, Bhaskar and Priyanka) and three replications in Randomized Complete Block Design during the year 2021-22. The results of the study revealed that, the variety Priyanka showed the highest germination per cent (94.24 %) and seedling vigour index-1 (2941.65). The variety vengurla-4 showed the highest shoot length (52.76 cm), number of leaves (17.26), number of internodes (7.25) and plant girth (1.82 cm). Thus, it implies that the variety Priyanka has the highest germination percentage, while the variety Vengurla-4 possesses significantly superior traits in terms of growth parameters, which exhibits that both the varieties can be used as a potential rootstock to produce high-quality seedlings of cashew.','Cashew, Germination, Seedling vigour index, Rootstock, Priyanka and Vengurla-4','Based on the above results it can be concluded that variety Priyanka has the highest germination percentage, which has a significant influence on seedling vigour, while the variety Vengurla-4 possesses significantly superior traits in terms of both the germination and growth parameters, which exhibits that both the varieties can be used as a potential rootstock to produce high-quality seedlings of cashew.','-','Pooja R., Sadashiv Nadukeri, Bhoomika H.R., Shashikala S. Kolakar and Ganapathi M. (2022). Germination and Seedling Vigour Studies in Cashew (Anacardium occidentale L) Varieties. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 14(4): 1000-1003.'),(5760,'146','Butterfly species diversity and distribution in protected forest areas of North-West Himalaya of India','Sanjay D. Paunikar and Gaurav Sharma','179 Butterfly species diversity and distribution in protected forest areas of North-West Himalaya of India Sanjay D. Paunikar.pdf','',1,'The Himalaya North-West region heavily depends on water resources for irrigation, food, hydropower, sanitation, and industry, as well as for the functioning of many important ecosystem services. It is also identified as a mega hot spot for biological diversity. The Himalayan foret ecosystem is even not untouched from overexploitation, habitat loss and illegal trade of butterfly and other insect species. This region is also on the verge of modernization, urbanization and tourism activity that lead to degradation of natural habitat. Due to this, more challenges to study on the faunal diversity of North-West Hiamlaya region. Among the faunal diversity, Butterflies are one of the most important and significant insect species for the pollination in the forest as well as agro-ecocsytem. \r\nThe field survey conducted to investigate the butterfly diversity and their distrubution in different protected forest areas of North-West Himalayan states, Himachal Pradesh and Uttarakhand during the years of 2018-2019. The study revealed presence of 102 butterfly species distributed in 5 families, 18 subfamilies and 66 genera. During the present field investigations documented the dominant family was found to be 55 species of Nymphalidae (53.92%) with 10 subfamilies followed by 17 species of Pieridae (16.66%) with 2 subfamilies, 18 species of Lycaenidae (17.64%) with 2 subfamilies, whereas 7 species of Hesperiidae (6.86%) with 2 subfamilies and 5 species of Papilionidae were represented (4.95%) with 1 subfamily. Out of 102 species of butterflies recorded, 11 species are legally protected under Indian Wildlife (Protection) Act, 1972. The three families, Pieridae (1), Nymphalidae (6) and Lycanidae (4) of 11 species recorded from study area belong to different Schedules of this act of which 2 species are in schedule I, 7 species in schedule II and 2 species in schgedule-IV.\r\nHowever, protected forest areas too are under severe anthropogenic activites like, farming pressure, construction of highways, dams, indiscriminate harvesting woods, leaves, fruits, seeds and human pressure due to tremendous flow of tourists was found a major threat to faunal diversity of the Indian Himalaya including North-West Himalaya. Therefore, more investigations are also still required in different ecological regimes to conserve the terrestrial ecosystem of the Himalayan region.\r\n','Butterflies, Protected forest areas, North-West Himalaya, diversity, distribution','Our study emphasizes the significance of altitude and diverse habitat types structuring butterfly assemblage in different forest areas of North-West Himalaya. Thus, the butterfly diversity will help to establish the linkage of changing climate and biological phenomena as the area show a great variety of habitat and altitude when covering a small distance on the ground. Therefore, more investigations are also still required in different forest areas and ecological regimes to conserve the terrestrial ecosystem of the Himalayan region.','-','Sanjay D. Paunikar and Gaurav Sharma (2022). Butterfly species diversity and distribution in protected forest areas of North-West Himalaya of India. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 14(4): 1004-1015.'),(5761,'146','Cross Transferability of SSR Markers from Finger Millet, Pearl Millet and Rice to Indian Little Millet and their Genetic Diversity Analysis','Anu Gautam, Keerti Tantwai, Sushma Nema, Niraj Tripathi and Sharad Tiwari','180 Cross Transferability of SSR Markers from Finger Millet, Pearl Millet and Rice to Indian Little Millet and their Genetic Diversity Analysis Anu Gautam.pdf','',1,'Little millet (Panicum sumatrense) is nutrient rich, highly resilient to climate, abiotic and biotic stresses in comparison to other cultivated cereals. Lack of genomic information of little millet severely limits the use molecular markers in the study of genetic variability and crop improvement. Development of molecular markers for genetic diversity analysis of little millet is required for conservation of germplasm ex-situ. This study was conducted to evaluate the genetic diversity of 33 little millet landraces accessions collected from different agro-climatic zones of Madhya Pradesh and few samples from Chhattisgarh state using simple sequence repeat (SSR) markers. About 15 SSR markers were selected from reported markers of finger millet, pearl millet and rice. Among 15 SSR markers, 9 markers showed polymorphism. Totally 30 polymorphic alleles were detected with 44.71% percentage of polymorphism. The averages of gene diversity, polymorphic information content (PIC) and major allele frequency were 0.29, 0.26 and 0.78 respectively. The range of genetic distance value of 33 little millet lines was 0.0-0.6. DINKUT20160830-6 landrace was found to be most diverse based on cluster analysis. Findings of this study thus demonstrate the utility of SSR primers of same family crops in assessing genomics relationships in little millet. This study aid in development and use of SSR marker in little millet germplasm conservation and utilization in crop improvement programs effectively.','Little millet, SSR markers, landraces, polymorphism, genetic diversity, Panicum sumatrense','The genetic diversity among different landraces of little millet was analyzed by using SSR markers, which are effective and reliable tools for this type of analysis. These findings not only highlight the capacity of the SSR technique but also helps in the selection of diverse little millet landraces for conservation and crop improvement. This study shows the inter-generic transfer of SSR primers within the same family of crops. Genome of little millet is transferable with rice and other millets like finger millet and pearl millet. Diverse parents can be used for the improvement of millet genotypes and rice also because; the study confirms the suitability of gene transfer among rice, finger millet and pearl millet. The SSR markers identified herein can be applied in different hereditary studies together with association mapping in this crop and in related millet crops. Hence, these selected SSR markers can be helpful for molecular breeding in this underutilized millet crop. ','-','Anu Gautam, Keerti Tantwai, Sushma Nema, Niraj Tripathi and Sharad Tiwari (2022). Cross Transfer ability of SSR Markers from Finger Millet, Pearl Millet and Rice to Indian Little Millet and their Genetic Diversity Analysis. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 14(4): 1016-1023.'),(5762,'146','Estimation of Genetic Parameters in Okra [Abelmoschus esculentus (L.) Moench] under Malwa region of Madhya Pradesh','Sunil Baghel, Ajay Kumawat, Ankit Pandey, Pavan Devesh and N.K. Gupta','181 Estimation of Genetic Parameters in Okra [Abelmoschus esculentus _L._ Moench] under Malwa region of Madhya Pradesh Ajay Kumawat.pdf','',4,'Sixteen okra genotypes were evaluated to estimate the genetic parameters of yield and its attributing traits. The genotypes were sown in randomized complete block design (RCBD) with 3 replications at the Research area, Department of Horticulture, Rajmata Vijayaraje Scindia Krishi Vishwa Vidyalaya, College of Agriculture, Indore, Madhya Pradesh. The differences were statistically significant among the genotypes for all the traits studied. Fruit and shoot borers and yellow vein mosaic virus (BYVMV) are major challenges in okra production. In the present study, High magnitude of the phenotypic coefficient of variance (PCV) than the genotypic coefficient of variance (GCV) was observed for all the traits. None of the characters reported higher PCV and GCV while, moderate PCV and GCV were observed for the number of branches per plant, number of nodes to 1st flowering, length of internodes and number of leaves per plant, fruit yield per plant, fruit yield per plot and fruit yield per hectare. High heritability coupled with high genetic advance as a percentage of mean (GAM) was observed for fruit yield per plant, fruit yield per plot, fruit yield per hectare, number of branches per plant at 60 DAS and 90 DAS, plant height at 60 DAS, number of leaves per plant at 30 DAS, number of nodes to 1st flowering and length of internodes, suggesting that direct selection of these traits for crop improvement will be rewarding due to predominance of additive variation.','Variability, heritability, genetic advance, PCV and GCV, yield, Okra','The present study clearly indicated that greater variability was present among all the traits of selected okra genotypes. The magnitude of PCV was higher than GCV for all the traits. Moderate PCV and GCV were observed for the number of branches per plant at 60 DAS and 90 DAS, the number of nodes to 1st flowering, the length of internodes, the number of leaves per plant at 30 DAS, 60 DAS, and 90 DAS, the fruit yield per plant, the fruit yield per plot, and the fruit yield per hectare. High heritability coupled with high genetic advance as a percentage of mean (GAM) was observed for fruit yield per plant, fruit yield per plot, fruit yield per hectare, number of branches per plant at 60 DAS and 90 DAS, plant height at 60 DAS, number of leaves per plant at 30 DAS, number of nodes to 1st flowering, and length of internodes. It also indicated a higher response for the selection of high-yielding genotypes, as these characters are governed by additive gene actions. Based on estimations of genetic parameters, it is clear that the traits with high PCV, GCV, heritability, and genetic advance expressed as a percent mean were regarded as the most important traits, and selection of these traits will be more effective in increasing fruit production per plant.','-','Sunil Baghel, Ajay Kumawat, Ankit Pandey, Pavan Devesh and N.K. Gupta (2022). Estimation of Genetic Parameters in Okra [Abelmoschus esculentus (L.) Moench] under Malwa region of Madhya Pradesh. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 14(4): 1024-1027.'),(5763,'146','Estimation of Genetic Parameters in Okra [Abelmoschus esculentus (L.) Moench] under Malwa region of Madhya Pradesh','Sunil Baghel, Ajay Kumawat, Ankit Pandey, Pavan Devesh and N.K. Gupta','181 Estimation of Genetic Parameters in Okra [Abelmoschus esculentus _L._ Moench] under Malwa region of Madhya Pradesh Ajay Kumawat.pdf','',1,'Sixteen okra genotypes were evaluated to estimate the genetic parameters of yield and its attributing traits. The genotypes were sown in randomized complete block design (RCBD) with 3 replications at the Research area, Department of Horticulture, Rajmata Vijayaraje Scindia Krishi Vishwa Vidyalaya, College of Agriculture, Indore, Madhya Pradesh. The differences were statistically significant among the genotypes for all the traits studied. Fruit and shoot borers and yellow vein mosaic virus (BYVMV) are major challenges in okra production. In the present study, High magnitude of the phenotypic coefficient of variance (PCV) than the genotypic coefficient of variance (GCV) was observed for all the traits. None of the characters reported higher PCV and GCV while, moderate PCV and GCV were observed for the number of branches per plant, number of nodes to 1st flowering, length of internodes and number of leaves per plant, fruit yield per plant, fruit yield per plot and fruit yield per hectare. High heritability coupled with high genetic advance as a percentage of mean (GAM) was observed for fruit yield per plant, fruit yield per plot, fruit yield per hectare, number of branches per plant at 60 DAS and 90 DAS, plant height at 60 DAS, number of leaves per plant at 30 DAS, number of nodes to 1st flowering and length of internodes, suggesting that direct selection of these traits for crop improvement will be rewarding due to predominance of additive variation.','Variability, heritability, genetic advance, PCV and GCV, yield, Okra','The present study clearly indicated that greater variability was present among all the traits of selected okra genotypes. The magnitude of PCV was higher than GCV for all the traits. Moderate PCV and GCV were observed for the number of branches per plant at 60 DAS and 90 DAS, the number of nodes to 1st flowering, the length of internodes, the number of leaves per plant at 30 DAS, 60 DAS, and 90 DAS, the fruit yield per plant, the fruit yield per plot, and the fruit yield per hectare. High heritability coupled with high genetic advance as a percentage of mean (GAM) was observed for fruit yield per plant, fruit yield per plot, fruit yield per hectare, number of branches per plant at 60 DAS and 90 DAS, plant height at 60 DAS, number of leaves per plant at 30 DAS, number of nodes to 1st flowering, and length of internodes. It also indicated a higher response for the selection of high-yielding genotypes, as these characters are governed by additive gene actions. Based on estimations of genetic parameters, it is clear that the traits with high PCV, GCV, heritability, and genetic advance expressed as a percent mean were regarded as the most important traits, and selection of these traits will be more effective in increasing fruit production per plant.','-','Sunil Baghel, Ajay Kumawat, Ankit Pandey, Pavan Devesh and N.K. Gupta (2022). Estimation of Genetic Parameters in Okra [Abelmoschus esculentus (L.) Moench] under Malwa region of Madhya Pradesh. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 14(4): 1024-1027.'),(5764,'146','Screening of White Rust in Brassica juncea with Respect to modified Triple Test Cross Design','Sunidhi Tiwari, Vedna Kumari, S.K. Gupta, Om Prakash Yadav and Harpreet Singh','182 Screening of White Rust in Brassica juncea with Respect to modified Triple Test Cross Design Sunidhi Tiwari.pdf','',4,'Oilseed crops known to be the backbone of various agricultural economies from ancient times and play an important part in the agricultural industries as well as trade throughout the world. Brassica juncea (Indian mustard) belongs to family Brassicaceae, is a prominent oilseed crop cultivated globally. White rust is a devastating disease of oilseed Brassic as and it is desirable to find useful sources of host resistance in B. juncea as for control, breeding as well as selection for resistance is the most economical method of control. A study was carried out in the experimental field of CSKHPKV Palampur in the year during rabi 2019-2020 to 2020-2021 for generating the material by crossing of 12 lines with 3 testers (RCC-4 (P1, susceptible source), Donskaja IV (P2, resistant source) and their F1) to analyze in the randomized block design in the year 2021 to 2022. Screening of 12 lines with three testers and thirty-six crosses of Brassica juncea were done for their disease evaluation of White rust on leaf as well as pods. Out of 12 lines six genotypes were found moderately resistant and six were found susceptible. Among 36 crosses, 14 were found moderately resistant and 12 were found moderately susceptible and 10 were found susceptible to white rust.','Oilseed, White rust, Destructive, Crosses, Resistant','In this study, 12 lines, three testers of Brassica juncea and 36 crosses were screened for reaction to white rust under natural epiphytotic field conditions on 0-9 scale given by Conn et al. (1990) and observations on disease severity were recorded on the basis of visual observations. Out of 12 lines six genotypes were found moderately resistant and six were found susceptible. Among 36 crosses, 14 were found moderately resistant and 12 were found moderately susceptible and 10 were found susceptible to white rust. ','-','Sunidhi Tiwari, Vedna Kumari, S.K. Gupta, Om Prakash Yadav and Harpreet Singh (2022). Screening of White Rust in Brassica juncea with Respect to modified Triple Test Cross Design. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 14(4): 1028-1031.'),(5765,'146','Screening of Brassica juncea against white rust in modified triple test cross mating design','Sunidhi Tiwari, Vedna Kumari, S. K. Gupta, Harpreet Singh, Rakesh Kumar and Ashok Kumar','182 Screening of Brassica juncea against white rust in modified triple test cross mating design Sunidhi Tiwari.pdf','',4,'Oilseed crops known to be the backbone of various agricultural economies from ancient times and play an important part in the agricultural industries as well as trade throughout the world. Brassica juncea (Indian mustard) belongs to family Brassicaceae, is a prominent oilseed crop cultivated globally. White rust is a devastating disease of oilseed Brassicas and it is desirable to find useful sources of host resistance in B. juncea as for control, breeding as well as selection for resistance is the most economical method of control. A study was carried out in the experimental field of CSKHPKV Palampur in the year during rabi 2019-2020 to 2020-2021 for generating the material by crossing of 12 lines with 3 testers (RCC-4 (P1, susceptible source), Donskaja IV (P2, resistant source) and their F1) to analyze in the randomized block design in the year 2021 to 2022. Screening of 12 lines with three testers and thirty-six crosses of Brassica juncea were done for their disease evaluation of White rust on leaf as well as pods. Out of 12 lines six genotypes were found moderately resistant and six were found susceptible. Among 36 crosses, 14 were found moderately resistant and 12 were found moderately susceptible and 10 were found susceptible to white rust.','Oilseed, White rust, Destructive, Crosses, Resistant','In this study, 12 lines, three testers of Brassica juncea and 36 crosses were screened for reaction to white rust under natural epiphytotic field conditions on 0-9 scale given by Conn et al. (1990) and observations on disease severity were recorded on the basis of visual observations. Out of 12 lines six genotypes were found moderately resistant and six were found susceptible. Among 36 crosses, 14 were found moderately resistant and 12 were found moderately susceptible and 10 were found susceptible to white rust. ','-','Sunidhi Tiwari, Vedna Kumari, S. K. Gupta, Harpreet Singh, Rakesh Kumar and Ashok Kumar (2022). Screening of Brassica juncea against white rust in modified triple test cross mating design. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 14(4): 1028-1031.'),(5766,'146','Screening of Brassica juncea against white rust in modified triple test cross mating design','Sunidhi Tiwari, Vedna Kumari, S. K. Gupta, Harpreet Singh, Rakesh Kumar and Ashok Kumar','182 Screening of Brassica juncea against white rust in modified triple test cross mating design Sunidhi Tiwari.pdf','',1,'Oilseed crops known to be the backbone of various agricultural economies from ancient times and play an important part in the agricultural industries as well as trade throughout the world. Brassica juncea (Indian mustard) belongs to family Brassicaceae, is a prominent oilseed crop cultivated globally. White rust is a devastating disease of oilseed Brassicas and it is desirable to find useful sources of host resistance in B. juncea as for control, breeding as well as selection for resistance is the most economical method of control. A study was carried out in the experimental field of CSKHPKV Palampur in the year during rabi 2019-2020 to 2020-2021 for generating the material by crossing of 12 lines with 3 testers (RCC-4 (P1, susceptible source), Donskaja IV (P2, resistant source) and their F1) to analyze in the randomized block design in the year 2021 to 2022. Screening of 12 lines with three testers and thirty-six crosses of Brassica juncea were done for their disease evaluation of White rust on leaf as well as pods. Out of 12 lines six genotypes were found moderately resistant and six were found susceptible. Among 36 crosses, 14 were found moderately resistant and 12 were found moderately susceptible and 10 were found susceptible to white rust.','Oilseed, White rust, Destructive, Crosses, Resistant','In this study, 12 lines, three testers of Brassica juncea and 36 crosses were screened for reaction to white rust under natural epiphytotic field conditions on 0-9 scale given by Conn et al. (1990) and observations on disease severity were recorded on the basis of visual observations. Out of 12 lines six genotypes were found moderately resistant and six were found susceptible. Among 36 crosses, 14 were found moderately resistant and 12 were found moderately susceptible and 10 were found susceptible to white rust. ','-','Sunidhi Tiwari, Vedna Kumari, S. K. Gupta, Harpreet Singh, Rakesh Kumar and Ashok Kumar (2022). Screening of Brassica juncea against white rust in modified triple test cross mating design. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 14(4): 1028-1031.'),(5767,'146','Blast Screening and Genetic variability Studies for Yield and Yield Contributing Characters in Foxtail Millet (Setaria italica L.)','Ramana D.V., Chandra Mohan Reddy C.V., Haritha T. and Khayum Ahammed S.','183 Blast Screening and Genetic variability Studies for Yield and Yield Contributing Characters in Foxtail Millet _Setaria italica L._ Ramana D.pdf','',1,'The goal of the current study was to evaluate the extent of genetic variability for yield and yield-contributing features among 64 foxtail millet genotypes. Analysis of variance (ANOVA) results for 19 characters showed significant genotype differences for each character, indicating a high level of variability. Characters such as plant height, panicle length, panicle width, flag leaf blade length, flag leaf blade width, number of productive tillers per plant, weight of five panicles, seed calcium content, seed phosphorous content, seed iron content, seed zinc content, seed copper content, seed manganese content, seed protein content, and grain yield per plant showed moderate to high variability, high heritability, coupled with high genetic advance as percent of mean. In light of these qualities, direct phenotypic selection thereby significantly increases grain output. To determine the illness reactivity against blast disease, all 64 genotypes were put through a disease screening process. Thirty genotypes demonstrated a moderately resistant reaction (MR), compared to seven genotypes that displayed resistance (R). Five genotypes showed the susceptible reaction (S), 17 showed the moderately susceptible (MS), and five showed the highly susceptible reaction (HS). These blast resistant accessions can be used as donor parents in hybridization programmes to create disease-resistant, high-yielding cultivars in the future.','Blast, Foxtail millet, Genetic advance, Heritability, Variability','In the cases of days to 50% flowering, flag leaf blade length, and harvest index, high heritability together with moderate genetic advance were identified, illuminating the role of additive and non-additive gene action. The remaining parameters, including days to maturity and test weight, displayed moderate to low heritability and little genetic advance, showing the functioning of non-additive gene action. Therefore, these characteristics may be used through heterosis breeding, cyclic hybridization, bi-parental mating, and diallel selective mating systems.','-','Ramana D.V., Chandra Mohan Reddy C.V., Haritha T. and Khayum Ahammed S. (2022). Blast Screening and Genetic variability Studies for Yield and Yield Contributing Characters in Foxtail Millet (Setaria italica (L.). Biological Forum – An International Journal, 14(4): 1032-1039.'),(5768,'146','Effect of Foliar Application of GA3, NAA and Urea on Fruit Growth, Retension and Drop in Ber under Kanpur Condition','Nitin Kumar Chouhan, R.K.S. Gautam, Ravi Pratap, Vishal Gangwar, Veersain and Satyarath Sonkar','184 Effect of Foliar Application of GA3, NAA and Urea on Fruit Growth, Retension and Drop in Ber under Kanpur Condition Nitin Kumar Chouhan.pdf','',1,'The current study was conducted from 2019 to 2020 in a well-established ber orchard at the College of Horticulture Chandra Shekhar Azad University of Agriculture and Technology in Kanpur, Uttar Pradesh. A total of 13 uniformly sized and vigorous ber trees were chosen, and different nutrient concentrations of GA3 (10, 15 and 20 ppm), NAA (20, 30 and 40 ppm), and urea (1.0, 1.5 and 2%) were sprayed on them. Thirteen treatments that were reproduced three times were used in the CRD (Completely Randomized Design) structure of the study. Fruits were examined in a laboratory for their various features. The present study\'s findings showed that the use of GA3 20 ppm + NAA 40 ppm + urea 2% (T12) significantly improved the fruit characters of fruit set (170), fruit drop (84.25%), fruit retention (15.75%), volume (15.65 cc, length (4.45cm), weight (15.4 g), diameter (2.98 cm), pulp weight (14.38 g), and pulp stone ratio (14.10).','Ber, GA3, NAA, Urea, Growth and Quality','In this study, a number of parameters changed in response to the application of plant growth regulators, including GA3, NAA, and urea, as well as their combination treatments. The combined treatments of GA3 20 ppm + NAA 40 ppm + urea 2% significantly improved the fruit characters of fruit set (170), fruit drop (84.25%), fruit retention (15.75%), volume (15.65 cc, length (4.45cm), weight (15.4 g), diameter (2.98 cm), pulp weight (14.38 g), and pulp stone ratio (14.10). According to the findings\' scenario, the current trial demonstrated that the combined treatment of (GA3 20 ppm + NAA 40 ppm + urea 2%) was more effective. Therefore, it is suggested that researchers, orchardists, farmers, and students spray this treatment on Ber trees in order to boost productivity and raise profits.','-','Nitin Kumar Chouhan, R.K.S. Gautam, Ravi Pratap, Vishal Gangwar, Veersain and Satyarath Sonkar (2022). Effect of Foliar Application of GA3, NAA and Urea on Fruit Growth, Retension and Drop in Ber under Kanpur Condition. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 14(4): 1040-1043.'),(5769,'146','Evaluation of Milk Paneer Textural properties by Microwave Drying using Response Surface Methodology for Accelerated Drying','Shashi Bala Ahirwar, Devendra Kumar Verma, Archana Maravi and Priyanka Patel','185 Evaluation of Milk Paneer Textural properties by Microwave Drying using Response Surface Methodology for Accelerated Drying Shashi Bala Ahirwar.pdf','',1,'The major goal of this research was to evaluate the texture of microwave-dried milk paneer cubes and to examine how the combination of microwave heating tempering time and hot air drying affected those attributes. The shelf life of paneer is a major constraint in its utilization. A paneer sample was made using a National Dairy Development Board-developed industrial paneer manufacturing procedure (NDDB). Response surface methodology was used in this study to optimise microwave heating and ambient tempering for accelerated drying of milk paneer. Drying can be one of the methods to increase shelf-life. Drying experiments were conducted at Optimization factors included paneer cube size (5-25mm), microwave power level (150-750W), heating time (2-10 min), tempering time (1-5 min), and responses such as hardness, springiness, cohesiveness, gumminess, and chewiness. Using Texture Analyzer (TA-XT-Plus) and Design Expert 13, the ideal parameters for a highly acceptable product with a cube size of 11.504 mm at a microwave power level of 350.442W, heating time of 5.587 min, and tempering time of 2.341 min revealed the 231.439 g Hardness, 0.774 mm springiness, 0.603 cohesiveness, 139.973 Nmm gumminess, and 105.917 N The experimental values under the microwave drying condition matched the outcome predicted by analysis of variance. It shows that the model is highly fit and that RSM was successful in maximizing the microwave power level, which has a significant and advantageous impact on drying rate. Texture is an important property of Paneer from the viewpoint of consumer acceptance and satisfaction.','Paneer, Microwave drying, Texture, Response surface methodology (RSM)','The RSM is utilized to optimize the process conditions for the textural properties of paneer cubes: hardness, cohesiveness, gumminess, springiness, and chewiness. The ANOVA of the determination coefficient implies the regression model is adequate. Based on the analysis and regression model, the results indicate the microwave power, paneer cube size, heating time, and tempering time are identified to be 350.442, 5.587 min, and 2.341 min, presented with an experimental 231.439 g hardness, 0.774 mm springiness, 0.603 cohesiveness, 139.973 Nmm gumminess, and 105.917 Nmm chewiness.','-','Shashi Bala Ahirwar, Devendra Kumar Verma, Archana Maravi and Priyanka Patel (2022). Evaluation of Milk Paneer Textural properties by Microwave Drying using Response Surface Methodology for Accelerated Drying. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 14(4): 1044-1051.'),(5770,'147','Mutation for Disease Resistance in Fruit Crops- A Review','M.S. Aneesa Rani and Aiswarya Ravi','14 Mutation for Disease Resistance in Fruit Crops- A Review Aiswarya Ravi.pdf','',1,'Mutation breeding techniques are gaining attention in crop improvement which can create desirable variations in the genetic base of plants. Well adapted plant varieties can be improved by modifying one or two major traits, which limit their productivity or quality. Different viral, bacterial and fungal diseases are causing a huge loss in fruit crops, by reducing production and quality. Mutation breeding can be used as an eco-friendly and inexpensive method by creating disease-resistant plants. There are different barriers in fruit breeding and induced mutations help to break these obstacles. Several experiments have been conducted in this area worldwide and several disease-resistant mutant varieties are released for cultivation such as McIntosh 8F-2-32 variety of apple, Smile Heart variety of strawberry and US Furr ST variety of mandarin. The application of induced mutations along with biotechnology, genomics and molecular marker techniques, can speed up fruit breeding. In this paper, induced mutation studies for developing disease resistance in major fruit crops so far are being discussed. In addition, disease-resistant somaclonal variants in different fruit crops are also studied.','Induced Mutation, Disease Resistance, Fruit crops','The development of disease resistance is one of the major goals in fruit breeding since diseases are causing huge losses in different fruit crops. As fruit breeding is being constrained by various limitations, new methods need to be established to develop new varieties. The perusal of different mutagenesis experiments elucidates the importance of induced mutations in fruit crops. In vitro culture combined with induced mutation and molecular techniques speed up the breeding programme. Several disease resistant mutant varieties have been released in different fruit crops which is a breakthrough in fruit cultivation. The use of sequencing techniques helps to identify target-specific genes and easily detect mutations. Nowadays induced mutations are also used to determine the gene/allele function in plants. Mutation studies are to be focused on developing climate-resilient crops as climate change is seriously affecting crop production. Induced mutations coupled with biotechnology and molecular techniques can create better adaptability and higher productivity in crops. Thus mutation breeding coupled with advanced biotechnological tools can be recommended to transform fruit cultivation.','-','M.S. Aneesa Rani and Aiswarya Ravi (2022). Mutation for Disease Resistance in Fruit Crops- A Review. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 14(4a): 74-81.'),(5771,'146','Nutrient Concentration and Accumulation of Single Cross Hybrid Maize influenced under Foliar Application of Zinc based Nanofertilizer and Varying Fertility Levels in Southern Rajasthan','Piyush Choudhary, D. Singh, D.P. Singh, R.K. Sharma, D. Chouhan, Manish Bera and Anshul Sharma','186 Nutrient Concentration and Accumulation of Single Cross Hybrid Maize influenced under Foliar Application of Zinc based Nanofertilizer and Varying Fertility Levels in Southern Rajasthan Piyush Choudhary.pdf','',1,'In the present study, a field experiment was conducted in a FRBD with three (3) replications comprising four (4) foliar application of nanofertilizer (F1: Control; F2: at knee high stage; F3: at 50% tasseling stage and F4: both at knee high stage + at 50% tasseling stage) and four fertility levels (F1: 100% RDF; F2: 90% RDF; F3:80% RDF & F4: control) to study the effect of foliar application of zinc based nanofertilizer and varying fertility levels on nutrient concentration and accumulation of nutrients along with of maize in Southern Rajasthan. Nitrogen content (1.782 %, 1.760%), phosphorus content (0.391%, 0.403%) and zinc content (63.76 ppm, 67.11 ppm) of maize grain and nitrogen content (0.798 %, 0.793%), phosphorus content (0.182%, 0.173%) and zinc content (66.78 ppm, 70.40 ppm) of maize stover increased significantly by the foliar application zinc based nanofertilizer at dual stage viz., at knee high stage and at 50 per cent tasseling stage as compared to single stage application and application of 90 per cent RDF in maize, respectively. Similarly, foliar application zinc based nanofertilizer at dual stage viz., at knee high stage & at 50 per cent tasseling stage and 90 % RDF in maize had significant effect on nutrient accumulation by grain and stover of maize.','Nanofertilizer, Zinc, Yield, nutrient content and uptake, Maize','The present study’s finding indicates that foliar application of 0.1% zinc based nanofertilizer at knee high stage and 50 per cent tasseling stage significantly enhanced the nutrient concentration and accumulation of maize. Further, application of 90 per cent recommended dose of fertilizer had statistically significant influenced nutrient concentration and accumulation of maize.','-','Piyush Choudhary, D. Singh, D.P. Singh, R.K. Sharma, D. Chouhan, Manish Bera and Anshul Sharma (2022). Nutrient Concentration and Accumulation of Single Cross Hybrid Maize influenced under Foliar Application of Zinc based Nanofertilizer and Varying Fertility Levels in Southern Rajasthan. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 14(4): 1052-1055.'),(5772,'146','Evaluation of Genetic Variability Parameters in 185 F3 Progenies of Black Gram [Vigna mungo (L.) Hepper] for Seed Yield and Related Components','V.B. Rana, J.P. Makati, Naresh Chaudhary, Rutvik J. Joshi, Shivangi Vanapariya, Zarna S. Shah, A.V. Malaviya and Sanyam Patel','187 Evaluation of Genetic Variability Parameters in 185 F3 Progenies of Black Gram [Vigna mungo _L._ Hepper] for Seed Yield and Related Components V.B. Rana.pdf','',1,'Black gram is an important autogamous pulse crop with cleistogamous condition, hence showing minimal variation. So, the experiment was done to assess the black gram F3 progenies of cross NUK-15-02 × GU-1 along with four checks GU-1, GU-2, GU-3 and T-9 for genetic variability parameters of eleven quantitative traits related to seed yield in Augmented Block Design. Analysis of variance showed that F3 progenies exhibit substantial variability for all the attributes considered in this study. The highest seed yield per plant was depicted by progenies A-74 (31.38 g), A-193 (30.60 g) and A-11 (29.08 g). High GCV and PCV values were observed for seed yield per plant, pods per plant, clusters per plant, branches per plant and harvest index, demonstrating the potential for improvement through selection. Plant height, branches per plant, clusters per plant, pods per plant, harvest index and seed yield per plant showed strong heritability in conjunction with high genetic advance. So, selection for such traits is recommended to improve black gram due to additive gene action.','Variability, Heritability, Genetic advance, Augmented Block Design, Black gram, Urdbean','The entire research trial manifested that there is a lot of variation in the progenies for every attributes incorporated in this study. For all the traits, PCV was higher than the GCV but values are very close to each other, depicting that environment has little influence. Due to high heritability coupling with high genetic advance as per cent of mean (additive gene action), it will be simple to select for plant height, branches per plant, clusters per plant, pods per plant and harvest index, which will be helpful in future seed yield enhancement programmes of black gram breeding.','-','V.B. Rana, J.P. Makati, Naresh Chaudhary, Rutvik J. Joshi, Shivangi Vanapariya, Zarna S. Shah, A.V. Malaviya and Sanyam Patel (2022). Evaluation of Genetic Variability Parameters in 185 F3 Progenies of Black Gram [Vigna mungo (L.) Hepper] for Seed Yield and Related Components. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 14(4): 1056-1060.'),(5773,'146','First Report of Rust Disease on Dendrocalamus somdevai in Uttarakhand, India','R. Juwantha, A. Sharma, J. Saxena, H.S. Ginwal, S. Bhartwal and A. Pandey','188 First Report of Rust Disease on Dendrocalamus somdevai in Uttarakhand, India R. Juwantha.pdf','',1,'Bamboo plants (Dendrocalamus somdevai) found in the homestead and hills of Uttarakhand are used for making many household articles and furniture. The nonavailability of seeds and inadequate traditional rhizome propagation methods make it impossible to fulfil the demand of the expanding pulp, paper, furniture, and rayon industries. The optimum propagation technique is being researched to meet this difficulty. Dendrocalamus somdevai grown in the Forest Research Institute, Dehradun, displayed symptoms of rust from late February to April 2022. The disease incidence was too high, as more than 90% of the plants were infected. Uredia and telia were observed on the infected leaves. The species was identified through various taxonomical features such as shape, size of urediniospores and teliospores, etc. observed through light microscopy and scanning electron microscopy. Based on symptoms and the morphology of the organism, the pathogen was identified as Kweilingia divina. Pathogenicity through urediniospores or sexually reproductive spores has been successfully demonstrated. To our knowledge, this is the first report of the rust fungus Kweilingia divina on a new host, Dendrocalamus somdevai, in Uttarakhand, India.','Urediniospores, rust, scanning electron microscopy','Over 7000 rust fungi species have been reported to be parasitic on plants, including ferns and economically important plants such as cereals, legumes, composites, and agroforestry tree species (Kolmer et al., 2009). Out of these many rust fungi, about 29 rust fungi spanning 6 genera have been known to infect bamboo species. D. divina, D. bambusina, Puccinia spp., and Tunicospora bagchi, are the rust fungi species recorded from bamboo in India. D. divina is the most widespread rust fungus in the country (Singh and Bakshi 1964; Nema and Mishra 1965; Bakshi et al., 1972; Mohanan, 1994). The Kweilingia divina reported on Dendrocalamus somdevai fits the description given by Cummin (1971); Mundkur and Kheswalla (1943) and Nelson and Goo (2011). For the first time, Kweilingia divina has been found and is causing a rust infection in D. somdevai. We may draw the conclusion that more research is necessary to establish effective remedial strategies to manage the rust disease in D. somdevai as well as to identify its optimum growth method. A viable strategy to emphasize its significance and accommodate future demands is the development of rust-resistant species.','-','R. Juwantha, A. Sharma, J. Saxena, H.S. Ginwal, S. Bhartwal and A. Pandey (2022). First Report of Rust Disease on Dendrocalamus somdevai in Uttarakhand, India. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 14(4): 1061-1064.'),(5774,'146','Eco-Friendly Prospect of Organic Seed Treatments on Physiological and Biochemical activities in Black gram','T. Shunmuga Vadivel, M. Sala, R. Sridevi, M. Jayanthi and M. Valarmathi','189 Eco-Friendly Prospect of Organic Seed Treatments on Physiological and Biochemical activities in Blackgram T. Shunmuga Vadivel.pdf','',1,'In the current experiment, the influence of seed priming with botanical leaf extract on the growth and yield parameters of black gram was investigated in department of Seed Science and Technology, Adhiparasakthi Agricultural College, Kalavai during 2021. All the treatments irrespective of their dosage, performed better in all the physiological and biochemical properties of seeds than control in the varieties. In a field experiment, priming treatments for the black gram seeds namely, priming with 1% different leaf extract were applied before they were sowed alongside dry seeds (the control). The findings showed that, regardless of the dosage, all therapies, performed better in all the physiological properties of seeds than control in the varieties. Among the treatments, Botanical leaf extract Seeds treatments with Pungam leaf extract 1% significantly maintained its superiority with higher germination percentage (93), root length (18.35 cm), shoot length (23.45 cm), seedling length (41.80 cm),dry matter production (0.275 g seedling-10), vigour index I (3887) and vigour index II (25.58), dehydrogenase enzyme activity (1.328 OD value), lower electrical conductivity (57.8) and followed by T4 (90 %) with Treatment of Prosopis leaf extract 1% and Eucalyptus leaf extract 1%, Arappu leaf extract 1% which were on par with each other. The control group had the lowest value, though. However, the current findings showed that 1% Pungam leaf extract is used to improve the characteristics of black gram\'s growth.','Black gram; organic seed treatments; Arappu, Pungam, Prosopis, Neem, Eucalyptus physiological and Bio chemical','According to the study, organic treatments for seeds improved the plant\'s ability to photosynthesize as well as nodulation, both of which are crucial for increased productivity. Additionally, organic leaf extract is reported to increase the soil\'s ability to hold water in the area where roots grow and increase the delivery of nutrients to seeds that are germination. Pungam leaf extract has demonstrated energizing effects on characteristics that were sustained in the field were of seedling quality. Chemicals are expensive and a natural hazard when used as pelleting materials, whereas botanicals are less expensive, readily available to farmers, safe to handle, and simple to produce. But the current findings showed that 1% Pungam leaf extract is used to improve the vigour qualities and growth characteristics of black gram.','-','T. Shunmuga Vadivel, M. Sala, R. Sridevi, M. Jayanthi and M. Valarmathi (2022). Eco-Friendly Prospect of Organic Seed Treatments on Physiological and Biochemical activities in Blackgram. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 14(4): 1065-1070.'),(5775,'147','Study of various Alpha Diversity Indices for different Insect Pollinators on Coriander','Thakur M.V., Munj S.S., Pawale A.V., Humbare M.D., Verma R.D., Tudu L., Maji S., Das A., Choudhury S. and Patel Y.K.','15 Study of various Alpha Diversity Indices for different Insect Pollinators on Coriander Thakur MV.pdf','',1,'Experimental trials were conducted at research field of Beekeeping Unit, Dholi (Muzaffarpur) during Rabi season of 2021-22 on coriander. Diversity among insect pollinators is very much essential for higher yield as well as maintaining ecological balance. Total visited insect pollinators were 76 belonging to 11 genus, 6 families and 5 orders. Apis mellifera was most abundant species at Dholi location (19.74 per cent). Several diversity indices revealed that the region has a substantial amount of rich diversity. Diversity of insect pollinators was due to richness of natural resources surrounding the research field. There were no predominant species present and number of individuals in maximum species was quite similar. Evenness in population was due to the presence of flowering in crops at surrounding fields.','Coriandrum sativum L, Insect pollinators, Diversity index, Richness, Evenness and Dominance','In the present study, coriander flowers were visited by different insect pollinators. Total visited insect pollinators were 70 at Dholi belonging to 11 genus, 6 families and 5 orders. Pollinators from Apidae family contributed more pollination with more than 50 per cent share in population abundance. Various diversity indices showed that area had sufficiently rich diversity. Population of each species was more or less similar and no any over dominated species observed. Abundance of insect pollinators at Dholi location was due to richness of natural resources surrounding the research field. Slight variations between previous reports and results of the present study are may be due to change in the crop variety, floral reward, existing foraging source, climatic condition and native pollinator’s guilds. \r\nThis study furthermore provides an insight into the efficient species, foraging habits and surrounding flora that might encourage more pollinators to this cross-pollinated crop.\r\n','-','Thakur M.V., Munj S.S., Pawale A.V., Humbare M.D., Verma R.D., Tudu L., Maji S., Das A., Choudhury S. and Patel Y.K. (2022). Study of various Alpha Diversity Indices for different Insect Pollinators on Coriander. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 14(4a): 82-85.'),(5776,'146','Field efficacy of various entomopathogens against Fall Armyworm, Spodoptera frugiperda (J. E. Smith) (Lepidoptera: Noctuidae) infesting maize','Patel P.H., Sisodiya D.B., Raghunandan B.L. and Patel D.R.','190 Field efficacy of various entomopathogens against Fall Armyworm, Spodoptera frugiperda _J. E. Smith_ _Lepidoptera Noctuidae_ infesting maize Raghunandan BL.pdf','',1,'Farmers typically use chemical measures to combat fall armyworm, but their improper application has led to numerous issues. In such cases, it is necessary to make an efficient, low-risk plan for managing this pest. This study was conducted with the objective to evaluate the efficacy of different entomopathogens/microbial biopesticides on Spodoptera frugiperda (J. E. Smith) (Lepidoptera: Noctuidae) infesting maize. A field trial experiment was conducted during kharif, 2019 and rabi, 2019-20 by using Randomized Block Design (RBD) with three replications at Biological control farm, Anand Agricultural University, Anand. Bacillus thuringiensis AAU Strain – 1% AS was found most effective among all the evaluated entomopathogens in both the seasons and that treatment was at par with Bacillus thuringiensis 3.5% ES (Commercial formulation)with recording the lowest population of larvae (1.11 larvae/10 plants and 1.22 larvae/10 plants), plant damage (11.47 % and 13.10 %) and cob damage (11.45 % and 13.01 %), respectively. The highest grain as well as stover yield was recorded from the plot treated with Bacillus thuringiensis AAU Strain – 1% AS (2868 and 4136 kg/ha) and followed by Bacillus thuringiensis 3.5% ES (Commercial formulation) (2829 and 4099 kg/ha), respectively. During the experiment period, all the evaluated entomopathogens/microbial biopesticides were found safe to the natural enemies viz., chrysopids, coccinellids and spiders. ','Fall armyworm, invasive pest, entomopathogens/microbial biopesticide, maize, yield, natural enemies','On basis of larval population, plant damage and cob damage percentage recorded it is concluded that treatment of B. thuringiensis (AAU Strain – 1% AS) @ 40 ml/10 litre of water was highly effective entomopathogen under field condition. Further, all the entomopathogens/microbial biopesticides were found safe to natural enemies viz., coccinellids (grubs and adults) and chrysopids (grubs and adults) and spiders (spiderlings and adults). The positive impact of treatment B. thuringiensis (AAU Strain – 1% AS) on grain yield and stover yield of maize is noticed. Since, S. frugiperda is an invasive pest of maize in Gujarat, India; hence, these findings may be useful to various stakeholders viz., farmers, researchers, students etc.','-','Patel P.H., Sisodiya D.B., Raghunandan B.L. and Patel D.R. (2022). Field efficacy of various Entomopathogens against Fall Armyworm, Spodoptera frugiperda (J. E. Smith) (Lepidoptera: Noctuidae) infesting Maize. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 14(4): 1071-1076.'),(5777,'146','Effect of different Surface Coating Treatments on Physical Parameters of Guava (Psidium guajava L.) cv. Allahabad Safeda Fruits','Sikandar Malik, R.N. Kanpure, D.K. Raidas and Vaqar Malik','191 Effect of different Surface Coating Treatments on Physical Parameters of Guava _Psidium guajava L._ cv. Allahabad Safeda Fruits D.K. Raidas.pdf','',1,'The experiment was conducted during 2019-2020 at the Instructional cum Research Department of Fruit Science, RVSKVV- K.N.K. College of Horticulture, Mandsaur (M.P.). Guava freshly harvested fruits were coated with different coatings Guar gum (0.5%, 1.0%, 1.5% and 2.0%), Shellac (0.5%, 1.0%, 1.5% and 2.0%), Aloe veragel (25%, 50%, 75% and 100%) and Carboxyl Methyl Cellulose (0.5%, 1.0%, 1.5% and 2.0%), comprising of seventeen treatments with three replications in Completely Randomized Design. Periodically effects of different surface coating materials were observed for Physical parameters for fruits like- fruit length (cm), Fruit width (cm), Fruit volume (ml), specific gravity, physiological loss in weight (PLW %), Decay loss (%), Shelf-life of fruit (days). Out of four types of edible coating (i.e. Guar gum, Aloe vera, Carboxyl Methylcellulose, Shellac), Guar gum was found to be more beneficial as compared to other edible coatings throughout storage period. The application of edible coating (Guar gum) has proved to be best post-harvest application storage of guava cv. Allahabad Safeda from the point of fruit size (length & diameter), fruit volume (ml), specific gravity, PLW (%), decay loss (%) and shelf-life of fruit. The effect of surface coatings revealed that the post-harvest application of guar gum (2%) were found to be superior over other treatments with respect to physical, shelf life and quality parameters at ambient conditions resulting in prolonging the shelf-life of guava fruit cv. Allahabad Safeda. The Post-harvest quality conservation of guava is still a challenge in the production chain due to reduced post-harvest life attributed to its high respiratory rate, ethylene peak, fast loss of firmness and incidence off-decay during storage.','Fruit volume, specific gravity, Aloe vera coating, Carboxyl methylcellulose, Shellac, Guar gum, shelf life','It can be concluded that application of various edible coatings may be used for extending post-harvest shelf life of guava fruits during storage. Out of four types of edible coating (i.e. Guar gum, Aloe vera, Carboxyl Methylcellulose, Shellac), guar gum was found to be more beneficial as compared to other edible coatings throughout storage period.','-','Sikandar Malik, R.N. Kanpure, D.K. Raidas and Vaqar Malik (2022). Effect of different Surface Coating Treatments on Physical Parameters of Guava (Psidium guajava L.) cv. Allahabad Safeda Fruits. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 14(4): 1077-1081.'),(5778,'146','Profile Characteristics of Mandal Agricultural Officers of Telangana State','K. Chandra Jyothi, P. Vijaya Lakshmi, I. Sreenivasa Rao and G.E. CH. Vidya Sagar','192 Profile Characteristics of Mandal Agricultural Officers of Telangana State K. Chandra Jyothi.pdf','',1,'The present study was undertaken to assess the profile characteristics of Mandal agricultural officers working in the department of Agriculture, Telangana. The study was conducted in three agro climatic zones in Telangana state. Forty mandal agricultural officers from each agro climatic zone were selected randomly. Total 120 respondent -MAOs were selected for the study. The data were collected with the help of interview schedule from respondents at their office. Ex-post facto research design was adopted in this study. The study had shown the results that the majority of MAOs fall under middle age group (35-50 years), more than half of total respondent- MAOs were male, majority were having graduate degree (B.Sc. Agri.) educational qualification with medium professional experience of 7-10 years, more than three fourth opined optimum perceived workload. Majority of the MAOs represented the high level of categories in case of ‘information management’, ‘application of ICTs’ and belonged to medium level category in case of ‘Innovativeness’ ‘organizational culture’ ‘organizational climate’ and ‘job satisfaction’. The challenges of the study where trainees were spread in the entire Telangana state, but the sample size confined to only 120 trainees and the data on most of the aspects is based on the recall memory of the respondents. The findings of this study suggest that job satisfaction, organizational climate and culture can be improved to high category by providing incentives, promotions and rewards based on their performance and providing friendly atmosphere in the work place. ','Mandal agricultural officers, Department of agriculture, profile characteristics, trainings, Telangana','The present study revealed that majority of the respondent -MAOs are in the medium category for their profile characteristics except in information management and application of ICTs. The results indicated Mandal agricultural officers, being professional graduates has got lot of scope for further improvement of the scores of profile characteristics.','-','K. Chandra Jyothi, P. Vijaya Lakshmi, I. Sreenivasa Rao and G.E. CH. Vidya Sagar (2022). Profile Characteristics of Mandal Agricultural Officers of Telangana State. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 14(4): 1082-1085.'),(5779,'146','Analysis of Antigenotoxicity induced by Tulsi extract on Allium cepa Grown in Slurry Water','Nishi Chandra, Shalani Gupta, Anil Sirohi, R.S. Sengar, L.K. Gangwar, Bijendra Singh and Muzeev Ahmad','193 Analysis of Antigenotoxicity induced by Tulsi extract on Allium cepa Grown in Slurry Water Nishi Chandra.pdf','',1,'The use of industrial effluents and sewage sludge for agriculture has become a common practice in the world and India too. Many harmful metals and substances get transferred and accumulated in plant tissues from the soil, causing many problems and diseases in living organisms. Management of these abnormalities/ diseases with the medicinal plant is an ancient practice that has gained momentum in recent years. Aqueous extract of Ocimum sanctum (Tulsi) has long been used for the traditional management of cancer due to its antigenotoxic nature. Data on genotoxicity and carcinogenicity of are rather controversial, depending on the genetic system or the assay used. The genotoxicity profile of five different concentrations of slurry water (20%, 40%, 60%, 80%, and 100%) and the antigenotoxic profile of three concentrations of aqueous extract of tulsi leaves (10%, 20% and 30%) were evaluated with genotoxicity assays by using root tip cells of Allium cepa plant. The parameters evaluated in the cytological assay were several cells in dividing stage, mitotic indices (MI), % mitodepressive (MD) effect, RDR and chromosomal aberrations (CA) on A. cepa roots. A decrease in mitotic index with increasing concentration of slurry water was observed but the reduction was not significant enough to deduce that the slurry water samples caused a decrease in the number of dividing cells. However higher concentrations of slurry water (i.e. 60%, 80% and 100%) were found to have a completely lethal effect as no root germination and growth was observed in onion bulbs treated with these three concentrations of slurry water. The antigenotoxic effect of aqueous extract of tulsi leaves (10%, 20% and 30%), on Allium cepa roots pretreated with 20 % and 40% concentrations of slurry water was also observed. A significant reduction in MI% was noticed with all three concentrations of aqueous extract of tulsi leaves in treated samples. A concentration-dependent increase in the antigenotoxic effect of tulsi extract was observed for an overall reduction in chromosomal abnormalities in both concentrations of slurry water-induced genotoxicity. In the present investigation response of slurry water and antigenotoxic potential of Ocimum sanctum has been evaluated for their cytotoxic and genotoxic effects on Allium cepa. On the basis of our results, we can say that aqueous extract of tulsi has a protective effect on Allium cepa root meristem cells against the genotoxic effects produced by slurry water.','Ocimum sanctum, antigenotoxic, genotoxicity, Allium cepa, mitotic indices, Mito depressive effect, RDR, chromosomal aberrations','The cytotoxic and genotoxic effects of wastewater discharges on receiving water bodies were confirmed in A. cepa root tip cells. The discharge of industrial effluent and municipal wastewater into local water bodies, which flow into the local river, may cause DNA damage and affect downstream organisms in general, including humans, due to accumulation in the food chain. Tulsi leaf aqueous extract contains a significant number of phytochemicals with high anticancer activity relevant to DNA protection. These findings suggest that this plant contains a significant amount of natural anticancer compounds, which may be useful in preventing various chromosomal activities and reverting abnormalities to a normal state. However, more isolation of bioactive compounds would help to determine their potency and safety as a lead candidate of antigenotoxic substances for pharmaceutical applications.','-','Nishi Chandra, Shalani Gupta, Anil Sirohi, R.S. Sengar, L.K. Gangwar, Bijendra Singh and Muzeev Ahmad (2022). Analysis of Antigenotoxicity induced by Tulsi extract on Allium cepa Grown in Slurry Water. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 14(4): 1086-1092.'),(5780,'146','Correlation and Path coefficient Analysis in Fennel (Foeniculum valgare Mill.)','Jaswant Prajapati, C.N. Ram, Pradip Kumar, Sandeep Kumar, Aman Kumar Singh and Akhil Kumar Chaudhary','194 Correlation and Path coefficient Analysis in Fennel _Foeniculum valgare Mill.pdf','',1,'The present investigation was conducted to study the correlation coefficient and path coefficient analysis for 12 characters in Augmented Block Design of seventy five genotypes with three checks in fennel (Foeniculum vulgare Mill.) and it was carried out in Rabi season, 2020-21 at ANDUA&T, Kumarganj, Ayodhya. Correlation studies revealed that the most important trait seed yield/plant had revealed highly significant and positively correlated with plant height (0.338) followed by seed weight/umbel (0.294). Whereas, internodal length (0.166), days to maturity (0.164), days to 50 % flowering (0.157), number. of umbels/plant (0.127) and number of seeds/umbellet (0.010) exhibited positive correlation with seed yield / plant. Higher magnitude of positive direct effect on seed yield/plant was exerted by seed weight / umbel (1.851) followed by number of umbels/plant (1.7311), plant height (0.126), number of seeds/umbellet (0.112) and days to 50% flowering (0.115). While, negative direct effect on seed yield / plant was exerted by number of nodes / plant (-0.128) followed by test weight (-0.09), days to maturity (-0.079) and internodal length (-0.065). This indicates the attributing characters among the genotypes evaluated and will be improved by selection and breeding programme for yield and attributing characters.','Fennel, Augmented Block Design, correlation coefficient and path coefficient analysis','It may be concluded that seed yield/plant had exhibited highly significant and positive associated with plant height and seed weight/umbel. Higher magnitude of positive direct effect on seed yield/plant was exerted by seed weight/umbel, number. of umbels/plant and plant height. Hence, these characters could be considered reliable indicates for selection and to fix the criteria for selection to improve the seed yield/ plant in fennel.','-','Jaswant Prajapati, C.N. Ram, Pradip Kumar, Sandeep Kumar, Aman Kumar Singh and Akhil Kumar Chaudhary (2022). Correlation and Path coefficient Analysis in Fennel (Foeniculum valgare Mill.). Biological Forum – An International Journal, 14(4): 1093-1096.'),(5781,'146','Correlation and Path Analysis Studies in Okra (Abelmoschus esculentus L.) Genotypes','S. Neeraja, J. Srinivas, Veena Joshi, B. Sai Krishna Nikhil and G. Sathish','195 Correlation and Path Analysis Studies in Okra _Abelmoschus esculentus L._ Genotypes S.pdf','',1,'The Present experiment was conducted on study of correlation and path analysis in okra (Abelmoschus esculentus L.) Genotypes was carried out during Rabi season are sown in October month, in the year 2021-22. The study was under taken on 37 genotypes of okra using randomized block design (RBD) with three replications. From correlation studies , it was observed from that fruit yield per plant registered positive significant correlation plant height (0.7038 P, 0.7191 G), number of primary branches (0.6308 P, 0.6529 G), internodal length (0.5986 P, 0.6255 G), fruit length (0.3727 P, 0.3883 G), number of seeds per fruit (0.4039 P, 0.4258 G), number of fruits per plant (0.7977 P, 0.8229 G), seeds weight per fruit (0.3750 P, 0.3942 G), test weight (0.3575 P, 0.3704 G), germination percent (0.3096 P, 0.3356 G), seedling dry weight (0.2877 P, 0.2966 G), vigour index I (0.2764 P, 0.2955 G), vigour index II (0.3669 P, 0.3823 G) and chlorophyll content (0.7795 P, 0.8005 G) were also recorded. The results of a Path analysis showed that the following characters had a positive direct effect on pod yield per plant, plant height, fruit length, fruit diameter, number of fruits per plant, seeds weight per fruit, test weight, germination (%), seedling length, vigour index II, and chlorophyll content.','Okra, genotypes, correlation, path coefficient','Result showed highly significant differences among the genotypes for all the character studied and genetic variation less than phenotypic variance showed the highest genotypic variance plant height (cm), number of primary branches, number of fruits per plant and vigour index-II there is also significant correlation genotypic, phenotypic and environmental is number of fruits for plant. Path coefficient the number of fruits per plant had the highest positive direct effect followed by plant height (cm), number of primary branches.','-','S. Neeraja, J. Srinivas, Veena Joshi, B. Sai Krishna Nikhil and G. Sathish (2022). Correlation and Path Analysis Studies in Okra (Abelmoschus esculentus L.) Genotypes. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 14(4): 1097-1106.'),(5782,'146','Effect of Meteorological Parameters on Population Fluctuation of Fruit Fly (Bactrocera cucurbitae Coq.) Infesting Cucumber (Cucumis sativus L.)','Nikki Bhardwaj, S.B. Singh, Mahendra Choudhry and Prince Mahore','196 Effect of Meteorological Parameters on Population Fluctuation of Fruit Fly _Bactrocera cucurbitae Coq._ Infesting Cucumber _Cucumis sativus L.pdf','',1,'Population dynamics of fruit flies Bactrocera cucurbitae (Coquillett) was studied on cucumber (Cucumis sativus L.) variety Cucumber Gautam-910, during summer season 2020-21 and 2021-22 at College of Horticulture, Mandsaur (M.P.). The studies revealed that, for seasonal incidence, the fruit fly was found damaging and remained active on cucumber attaining peak population in the 18th SMW (52.62%) in 2020-21 and 17th SMW (30.29%) during 2021-22. The correlation studies showed that the fruit fly population was significant and positively correlated with Maximum temperature (r= 0.7246, r= 0.7454) and minimum temperature (r= 0.5367, r= 0.7871), significant and negatively correlated with relative humidity (r= -0.5949, r= -0.5598) whereas, rainfall (r= -0.0870, r = 0.1846) and rainy days (r= -0.1158, r =1.000) exhibited non-significant positive correlation in both year respectively.','Cucumber, correlation, fruit fly, meteorological parameters, incidence','The present study conclude various Abiotic factors like temperature, relative humidity, rain fall and rainy days were affect the sucking insect pest population and their multiplication, whereas temperature and relative humidity showed significant and rain fall, rainy day showed non significant correlation.','-','Nikki Bhardwaj, S.B. Singh, Mahendra Choudhry and Prince Mahore (2022). Effect of Meteorological Parameters on Population Fluctuation of Fruit Fly (Bactrocera cucurbitae Coq.) Infesting Cucumber (Cucumis sativus L.). Biological Forum – An International Journal, 14(4): 1107-1110.'),(5783,'146','Perception and Utilization Pattern of Information and Communication Technology Tools by the Farmers of Nagarkurnool District','B. Rajashekar, K. Aruna, M. Rajashekhar, T. Prabhakar Reddy, M. Jagan Mohan Reddy and G. Shiva Charan','197 Perception and Utilization Pattern of Information and Communication Technology Tools by the Farmers of Nagarkurnool District K. Aruna.pdf','',1,'Information and Communication Technology (ICT) can revolutionize Indian farming sector and can benefit all farmers. ICT’s today serving many purposes like agriculture, business and social development activities etc., especially in agriculture from crop production technologies to marketing, facilitating forward & backward linkages to the farm produce. ICTs is digital interactive platform assisting farmers and other stakeholders in agriculture. The study reported more than (63.33%) half of the farmers indicated that information is highly relevant to the particular location and need based, Majority (55.00%) of the farmers expressed that information is technical and applicable, locally feasible to our situation and acted as a preventative measures of yield losses. Majority of respondents (58.33%) farmers were expressed that the available information is easy to understand, 60.00 per cent of the respondents expressed that ICT tools provided information were adequate and enough to adopt and practice in field situations and 48.33 per cent of the farmers expressed that available information is compatable and applicable in field conditions. In content availability majority (78.33%) of the expressed that crop protection measures followed by crop management technologies and input information. Whereas usage of ICT tool most (70.00%) of the farmers expressed that daily followed by need based. In reasons for using of ICT tools most (88.33%) of the farmers expressed that app having diversity data followed local language of the content. ','ICT, Perception, content and Extent of usage','The ICT tools important for dissemination of agricultural information to the farmers and can play a greater role in enhancing efficiency of extension services by reaching the unreached farmers in remote areas. The study revealed that mobile app services are highly relevant to the farm situation, locally feasible, economic, understandable, needful, saves time and money, practically applicable in field conditions. ICT era serves as a boon to the welfare of the farming community. ','-','B. Rajashekar, K. Aruna, M. Rajashekhar, T. Prabhakar Reddy, M. Jagan Mohan Reddy and G. Shiva Charan (2022). Perception and Utilization Pattern of Infrormation and Communication Technology Tools by the Farmers of Nagarkurnool District. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 14(4): 1111-1114.'),(5784,'146','Effect of Nitrogen, Phosphorous and Boron on Seed Yield, Seed quality and Economics of Dolichos Bean (Lablab purpureus L.) var. Arka Amogh','Senapati B., Sahu G.S., Tripathy P., Dash S., Mohanty S. and S. Karubakee','198 Effect of Nitrogen, Phosphorous and Boron on Seed Yield, Seed quality and Economics of Dolichos Bean _Lablab purpureus L._ var. Arka Amogh Senapati B.pdf','',1,'A field experiment was carried out with ten treatments and three replications in Randomized complete block design with varied level of nitrogen, phosphorous and boron to study the effect of nitrogen, phosphorous and boron on seed yield, seed quality and economics of Dolichos bean (Lablab purpureus L.) var. Arka Amogh. It was observed that T10 with highest NPK (35:70:50 kg/ha) + FYM (15 t/ha) + B (1.5 kg/ha) produced maximum number of seeds/pod (4.3), 100 seed weight (32.71 g), average seed yield/pod (1.407 g), total seed yield/ha (2844 kg), total marketable seed yield/ha (2480.4 kg), lowest unmarketable seeds/ha (363.6 kg), highest germination percentage (92.7 %), vigour index-1 (3487.37), vigour index-2 (12672.23) and highest B:C ratio (3.79) which was found to be at par with T8 with NPK (35:70:50 kg/ha) + FYM (15 t/ha) + B (1.5 kg/ha). So, from the experiment, it can be concluded that the fertilizer dose of NPK (35:70:50 kg/ha) + FYM (15 t/ha) + B (1.5 kg/ha) should be applied to get higher marketable seed yield/ha with better quality and fetch more profit in seed production of dolichos bean, var. Arka Amogh.','Dolichos bean, seed yield, seed quality, Economics','Based on the findings of the experiment, it can be concluded that a fertilizer dose of NPK (35:70:50 kg/ha) + FYM (15 t/ha) + B (1.5 kg/ha) should be used to achieve a better quality marketable seed yield/ha and fetch higher profit in seed production of dolichos bean, var. Arka Amogh.','-','Senapati B., Sahu G.S., Tripathy P., Dash S., Mohanty S. and S. Karubakee (2022). Effect of Nitrogen, Phosphorous and Boron on Seed Yield, Seed quality and Economics of Dolichos Bean (Lablab purpureus L.) var. Arka Amogh. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 14(4): 1115-1119.'),(5785,'146','Efficacy of Nucleopolyhedrovirus (SfNPV) and Insecticides alone and in Combination against fall Armyworm, Spodoptera frugiperda (J.E. Smith) (Lepidoptera: Noctuidae) Infesting Maize','Pavan J.S., N.B. Patel, Raghunandan B.L. and A. M.Baldaniya','199 Efficacy of Nucleopolyhedrovirus _SfNPV_ and Insecticides alone and in Combination against fall Armyworm, Spodoptera frugiperda _J.E. Smith_ _Lepidoptera Noctuidae_ Infesting Maize Pavan J.pdf','',1,'The experiment was conducted to evaluate the efficacy of SfNPV and insecticides alone and in combination against fall armyworm, Spodoptera frugiperda (J.E. Smith) (Lepidoptera:Noctuidae) infesting maize under field condition during Kharif season of 2021 at Agronomy farm, Anand Agricultural University, Anand (Gujarat, India). With respect to larval population, the treatment of SfNPV 1% AS + spinetoram 11.7 SC (1.99 larvae/10 plants) found superior in reducing larval population. However, SfNPV 1% AS + emamectin benzoate 5 SG (2.43 larvae/10 plants) and SfNPV 1% AS + chlorantraniliprole 18.5 SC (2.70 larvae/10 plants) found mediocre in their effectiveness against fall armyworm. Regarding plant damage the treatment of SfNPV 1% AS + spinetoram 11.7 SC (15.96%) noted as superior in minimizing plant damage. However, SfNPV 1% AS + emamectin benzoate 5 SG (19.60%) and SfNPV 1% AS + chlorantraniliprole 18.5 SC (22.94%) registered as average in their effectiveness against plant damage due to fall armyworm. Based on cob damage, it was inferred that cob damage caused by fall armyworm, S. frugiperda reduced by spraying of SfNPV 1% AS + spinetoram 11.7 SC and SfNPV 1% AS + emamectin benzoate 5 SG. The maximum grain and fodder yield were recorded from the plots treated with SfNPV 1% AS + spinetoram 11.7 SC (2555 and 3461 kg/ha) and SfNPV 1% AS + emamectin benzoate 5 SG (2495 and 3377 kg/ha). Increase in yield over control of grain as well as fodder ranged from 14.52 to 89.48 and 9.45 to 85.86 per cent, respectively. This is the first study on SfNPV combination with insecticides on the invasive pest fall armyworm in India. As a result of the present study, it has been determined that insecticides combined with SfNPV are the most suitable for use in Integrated Pest Management programs.','Fall armyworm (FAW), bio-efficacy, nucleopolyhedrovirus (NPV), insecticides, maize','This is the first study on SfNPV combination with insecticides on the invasive pest fall armyworm in India. From the results it can be concluded that the spinetoram 11.7 SC and emamectin benzoate 5 SG found most effective in reducing larval population of fall armyworm infesting kharif maize. But chemical pesticides, can destroy population of natural enemies of crop pests and cause other issues such as secondary pest epidemics, pest resurgence and pesticide resistance in target pests due to extensive use of pesticides. As observed from above results, SfNPV 1% AS + spinetoram 11.7 SC and SfNPV 1% AS + emamectin benzoate 5 SG also found effective in reducing larval population of fall armyworm S. frugiperda, so it can be concluded that combination of insecticides along with NPV can be recommended for pest management. Microbial insecticides in combination with chemicals insecticides not only reduce the use of sole chemical insecticides to an extent but also increase the effectiveness of pesticides. Besides, both in combination would be economically viable reducing cost and risk by improving B:C ratio. Compatibility of bio-gents with chemical pesticides is very important to reduce the chances of development of resistances to newer chemical insecticides.','-','Pavan J.S., N.B. Patel, Raghunandan B.L. and A. M. Baldaniya (2022). Efficacy of Nucleopolyhedrovirus (SfNPV) and Insecticides alone and in Combination against fall Armyworm, Spodoptera frugiperda (J.E. Smith) (Lepidoptera: Noctuidae) Infesting Maize. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 14(4): 1120-1125.'),(5786,'146','Evaluation of Pyriproxyfen 8% + Clothianidin 3.5 SE against Sucking Pests of Cotton','R.K. Kalyan and Deepika Kalyan','200 Evaluation of Pyriproxyfen 8 Clothianidin 3.5 SE against Sucking Pests of Cotton Deepika Kalyan.pdf','',1,'The field trials to evaluate the bio-efficacy of different doses of Pyriproxyfen 8% + Clothianidin 3.5 SE as foliar spray against sucking pests of cotton were conducted at Agricultural Research Station-Borwat Farm, Banswara (Rajasthan) during Kharif 2016 and 2017. The results of the investigation revealed that the ready mix molecule of Pyriproxyfen 8% + Clothianidin 3.5 SE @ 1500 ml and 1250 ml ha-1 were very effective in providing protection against sucking pests of cotton viz. whiteflies, jassids and thrips with highest mean seed cotton yield (1986 & 1831 kg ha-1, respectively) and were statistically at par. The next best treatments were Diafenthiuron 50 WP @ 600 g ha-1, followed by Clothianidin 50 WDG @ 50 g ha-1. None of the treatments showed any symptoms of phytotoxicity.','Efficacy, ready mix molecule, Pyriproxyfen 8% + Clothianidin 3.5 SE, cotton and sucking pests','In the present investigatons, bio-efficacy of different doses of ready mix molecule Pyriproxyfen 8% + Clothianidin 3.5 SE as foliar spray was tested against cotton sucking pests, which revealed that the above said molecule @ 1500 ml and 1250 ml ha-1 was found most effective. The greater dose of the chemical also did not result in any symptoms of phytotoxicity on the crop.','-','R.K. Kalyan and Deepika Kalyan (2022). Evaluation of Pyriproxyfen 8% + Clothianidin 3.5 SE against Sucking Pests of Cotton. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 14(4): 1126-1130.'),(5787,'146','Influence of Bund Planted Teak (Tectona grandis) on Soil Biological properties in Agroforestry System','Kalakappa, Honnali S.N., Doddabasawa, Chittapur B.M., Ananda N. and Satihal D.G.','201 Influence of Bund Planted Teak _Tectona grandis_ on Soil Biological properties in Agroforestry System Kalakappa.pdf','',1,'An investigation was carried out to assess the directional and spatial influence of bund planted teak trees on chickpea grown in association during 2020-21 in Northern Dry Zone (Zone III) of Karnataka, India. The results revealed significant positive improvement in soil biological properties in teak-based bund planting as compared to control (without trees). Significantly higher population of bacteria, fungi, actinomycetes and dehydrogenase activity at crop stage of 50 per cent flowering (75.63 × 106 cfu g-1 soil, 45.23 × 103 cfu g-1 soil, 33.82 × 102 cfu g-1 soil and 28.10 µg TPF g-1 soil for 24 hours, respectively) were recorded on western direction (M2) followed by northern direction, and significantly lower population of bacteria, fungi, actinomycetes and dehydrogenase activity at crop stage of 50 per cent flowering (71.93 × 106 cfu g-1 soil, 39.70 × 103 cfu g-1 soil, 30.83 × 102 cfu g-1 soil, and 25.21 µg TPF g-1 soil for 24 hours, respectively) were recorded on southern direction (M4) and were comparable with the eastern direction. Bund planting improved soil biological properties when compared with control. Further, positive influence of trees up to an extant of 17 m was noticed. Hence, it is suggested to have bund planting of teak at intervals of 20 m distance in the field.','Bund planting, distance, direction, shade, light intensity and soil temperature','Present investigation observed improved soil biological properties by the trees on the farm land as compared to control (without trees). Study indicated that the extent of influence on soil biological properties depends on the planting direction, extent of density, type of species, age of the tree, phonological characteristics of tree species and most importantly tree canopy architecture. However, more improved soil biological properties were noticed near the tree line and found to be in decreasing order with increase in distance from the tree line. And yield reduction below these high shading trees is a challenge a requires a serious consideration. A careful selection of these trees can thus be helpful in devising the agroforestry system and modifying and managing the existing agroforestry system. Hence, it is suggested to have bund planting at intervals of 20 m in the field for better improvement of soil physico-chemical properties.','-','Kalakappa, Honnali S.N., Doddabasawa, Chittapur B.M., Ananda N. and Satihal D.G. (2022). Influence of Bund Planted Teak (Tectona grandis) on Soil Biological properties in Agroforestry System. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 14(4): 1131-1136.'),(5788,'146','Genetic Diversity in the Vidharbha Region’s Pink Bollworm Pectinophora gossypiella (Saunders) Adults Populations','Lalsingh Rathod, S.K. Bhalkare, P.K. Rathod, A.K. Sadavarte, A.V. Kolhe, D.B. Undirwade, S.S. Mane, Shoba and Chinna Babu Naik','202 Genetic Diversity in the Vidharbha Region’s Pink Bollworm Pectinophora gossypiella _Saunders_ Adults Populations Lalsingh Rathod 3864.pdf','',1,'Pink bollworm is the most damaging and ubiquitous cotton pest. Recently \"survival of pink bollworm\" on bt cotton and causing up to 70-80% losses was reported. Genetic diversity is the result of recombination of genetic material during the inheritance process it shifts over time and space. Individuals\' physical characteristics and ability to adapt to stress, diseases, and unfavourable environmental conditions are influenced by genetic diversity. Natural or anthropogenic environmental changes result in natural selection and survival of the fittest. As a result of genetic diversity, susceptible varieties die while those that can adapt to changes survive. In order to understand the variation at genetic level, present experiment \"Molecular characterization of pink bollworm adults\" has done at Department of Agricultural Entomology and Botany, Centre of Excellence in Plant Biotechnology, Dr PDKV Akola. During the study total of eight primers i.e. seven SSR and one ISSR were used for molecular characterization of pink bollworm adults, collected from different locations viz., Akola, Amravati, Washim, Nagpur, Yavatmal and Wardha of Vidarbha region. Results revealed that a total of 56 amplicons were produced from the molecular characterization of adult pink bollworms with seven SSR and an ISSR primer, of which 31 (55.35%) are polymorphic bands, showing substantial genetic variability in the Pectinophora gossypiella population. The pink bollworm samples were grouped into four major clusters the first group is named as cluster-A, which includes samples belonging to Washim, Nagpur and Yavatmal. Second group is named cluster-B, which includes sample belonging to Amravati. Third group is named cluster-C, which includes samples belonging to Wardha and the fourth group is named cluster-D includes sample belonging to Akola. In the phylogenetic tree, the Washim sample had a higher similarity coefficient (0.774), whereas the Akola sample had a lower similarity coefficient (0.354). It reveals that the Washim sample is highly similar to the Nagpur sample, whereas the Akola sample is the least similar to the Washim and Nagpur samples.','Pink bollworm, SSR and ISSR Markers, Molecular characterization, Genetic polymorphism','Molecular characterization of Vidharbha region’s Pink bollworm Pectinophora gossypiella (Saunders) adults populations concludes that at the genetic level Washim sample were highly similar to Nagpur sample whereas, the Akola sample where least similar to Washim and Nagpur sample.','-','Lalsingh Rathod, S.K. Bhalkare, P.K. Rathod, A.K. Sadavarte, A.V. Kolhe, D.B. Undirwade, S.S. Mane, Shoba and Chinna Babu Naik (2022). Genetic Diversity in the Vidharbha region’s Pink Bollworm Pectinophora gossypiella (Saunders) Adults Populations. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 14(4): 1137-1140.'),(5789,'146','Heterosis Study for Seed Cotton Yield and its Related Attributes in Cotton (Gossypium hirsutum L.)','Shivangi Vanapariya, G.O. Faldu, Rita R. Patel, V.B. Rana, Bhoomi R. Viradiya, Rinkal Goswami and Kruti Gorasiya','203 Heterosis Study for Seed Cotton Yield and its Related Attributes in Cotton _Gossypium hirsutum L._ Shivangi Vanapariya.pdf','',1,'A line × tester crossing technique was undertaken for the identification of best heterotic crosses for seed cotton yield and its components traits in upland cotton (Gossypium hirsutum L.) using thirteen parents (3 lines and 10 testers) and their thirty resultant crosses along with a check GN. Cot. Hy-18 in a randomized block design with three replications during kharif 2020-21 at Main Cotton Research Station, Navsari Agricultural University, Surat. The highest heterobeltiosis and standard heterosis found in cross GSHV-01/1338 × ARBC-1351(81.45%) and GJHV-566 × GSHV-213 (51.16%) for seed cotton yield per plant respectively. Among the 30 hybrids, eight hybrids showed significantly positive heterobeltiosis and four hybrids showed significant positive heterosis over standard check GN. Cot. Hy. 18 for seed cotton yield per plant. Four crosses viz., GJHV-566 × GSHV-213, GSHV-01/1338 × ARBC-1351, GISV-323 × G. Cot-16 and GISV-323 × ARBC-1351 recorded positive and significant heterobeltiosis and standard heterosis for seed cotton yield per plant along with yields contributing characters like Plant height, bolls per plant, sympodia per plant, boll weight, ginning outturn and seed index. Therefore, such cross combinations may be recommended for commercial cultivation as hybrids or further production of more desirable recombinants and superior varieties.','Cotton, Line × Tester, Heterosis, Heterobeltiosis, standard heterosis','The current analysis revealed significant amounts of both desired heterobeltiosis and standard heterosis for various traits. These imply the potential for cotton improvement through heterosis breeding. Top-ranking crosses based on per se performance and standard heterosis were nearly identical, although heterobeltiosis resulted in a slight difference. Since better parent heterosis is less reliable, ranking based on standard heterosis is more reliable. ','-','Shivangi Vanapariya, G.O. Faldu, Rita. R. Patel, V.B. Rana, Bhoomi Viradiya, Rinkal Goswami and Kruti Gorasiya (2022). Heterosis Study for Seed Cotton Yield and its Related Attributes in Cotton (Gossypium hirsutum L.). Biological Forum – An International Journal, 14(4): 1141-1147.'),(5790,'147','Studies on Formulation and Organoleptic Evaluation of Golden A2 Milk with Soymilk and Turmeric Rhizome Juice','Giri S.A., Kshirsagar R.B. and Agarkar B.S.','16 Studies on Formulation and Organoleptic Evaluation of Golden A2 Milk with Soymilk and Turmeric Rhizome Juice Giri S.pdf','',1,'The study was carried out to develop golden A2 milk with soymilk and turmeric rhizome juice. Sensory evaluation, physical properties, proximate composition and mineral composition of prepared product were assessed. Formulations for manufacture of golden A2 milk were optimized on the basis of their sensory as well as nutritional properties. Optimized samples were thereafter blended for the preparation of different ratios as T1 (80% cow milk + 15% soymilk + 5% turmeric rhizome juice), T2 (70 % cow milk + 20 % soymilk + 10 % turmeric rhizome juice), T3 (60% cow milk + 25% soymilk + 15% turmeric rhizome juice), while cow milk (T0) served as control. On the basis of sensory evaluation, it is observed that sample T2 scored highest (8.5) for overall acceptability. Jaggery powder was used as sweetener which was in equal quantity for all samples. The study revealed various physical properties as pH, acidity, specific gravity, TSS, density and viscosity. Chemical composition as moisture content 80.6%, protein 1.28 %, fat 4.96 %, carbohydrate 9.58 %, ash 0.93%, crude fiber 0.65% and curcumin 1.85 %. Prepared drink is rich in calcium, sodium and iron. This finding revealed that golden A2 milk can be a nutrient source for people.','Soymilk, turmeric rhizome, sensory evaluation, A2 milk','A2 milk represents good digestibility qualities, it is a source of energy, protein, and fat, and a high milk intake contributes to increased height, stronger bones, and better dental health. Soymilk have high quality protein with a low amount of saturated and trans fatty acids and all are familiar with goodness of turmeric. Turmeric is rich source of antioxidant as it is filled with curcumin. Curcuminin turmeric have some promising effect observed in patient with pro-inflammatory diseases including cancer, cardiovascular disease, uveitis, gastric ulcer. Considering nutritional profile of ingredients, the golden A2 milk with freshly harvested turmeric rhizome juice and soymilk was prepared. It is observed that the prepared drink is good source of protein and crude fiber. The study revealed that the organoleptic characteristic of turmeric based A2 milk viz., colour, sweetness, flavour, mouthfeel and overall acceptability were significantly influenced by addition of turmeric rhizome juice. It can be concluded that golden A2 milk can be prepared using cow milk, soymilk and turmeric rhizome juice in proportion70:20:10 (T2) received highest sensory score i.e., 8.5 in case of all sensory attributes.','-','Giri S.A., Kshirsagar R.B. and Agarkar B.S. (2022). Studies on Formulation and Organoleptic Evaluation of Golden A2 Milk with Soymilk and Turmeric Rhizome Juice. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 14(4a): 86-90.'),(5791,'146','Effect of Irrigation Schedules on Growth, Yield Characters and Yield of Groundnut varieties','S.K. Chandini, N. Venkata Lakshmi, M. Sree Rekha and M. Ravi Babu','204 Effect of Irrigation Schedules on Growth, Yield Characters and Yield of Groundnut varieties Chandini SK.pdf','',1,'A field experiment was carried out at the Agricultural College farm, Bapatla during the rabi season of 2021-22 to investigate the effect of irrigation schedules on groundnut varieties with IW/CPE ratios that are appropriate for a given season under moisture stress conditions. The experiment was designed in a split-plot with three replications which includes three irrigation schedules IW/CPE ratios of 1.0 (M1), 0.8 (M2) and 0.6 (M3) as main plots, four groundnut varieties i.e., TAG-24 (V1), Dheeraj (V2), Kadiri Leapskhi (V3) and Kadiri Chitravati (V4) as sub-plots. The results showed that an IW/CPE ratio of 1.0 produced significantly higher yield characters such as number of pods plant-1 (24.7), number of filled pods plant-1 (22.6), number of branches plant-1 (10.5) and test weight (42.3 g). Dheeraj had significantly taller plants (43.3 cm), whereas Kadiri Lepakshi had more branches plant-1 (12.7) and drymatter production (8632 kg ha-1) than Kadiri Chitravati, Dheeraj and TAG-24. IW/CPE ratio of 1.0 along with Kadiri Lepakshi out performed Kadiri Chitravati, Dheeraj, and TAG-24 in terms of pod and haulm yield.','Irrigation schedules, Groundnut varieties, IW/CPE-','According to the findings of the current study, groundnut yield parameters (number of pods plant-1, number of filled pods plant-1, and test weight) and plant growth were considerably higher at IW/CPE ratio of 1.0 (M1) than with an IW/CPE ratio of 0.8, except drymatter. Among the varieties, Kadiri Lepakshihad greatly increased the number of branches plant-1, dry matter compared to other varieties. Scheduling of irrigations at pre sowing, pegging, pod formation stage and pod development stage (4 irrigations) using IW/CPE ratio of 1.0 resulted in higher pod yield (3175 kg ha-1) which was comparable to that of irrigation scheduled at IW/CPE ratio of 0.8 (2916 kg ha-1) i.e., three irrigations (pre sowing, pegging and pod formation stage) on sandy loam soils under moisture stress conditions with less difference of B:C ratio to that of four (4) irrigations.','-','S.K. Chandini, N. Venkata Lakshmi, M. Sree Rekha and M. Ravi Babu (2022). Effect of Irrigation Schedules on Growth, Yield Characters and Yield of Groundnut varieties. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 14(4): 1148-1152.'),(5792,'146','Study on Impact of the Socio Economic conditions of the Sericultural Farmers on Cocoon Production','Iqra Khan, Masarat Bashir, N.A. Ganie, Asif Rafiq, Ishfaq Ahmad Bhat, K.A. Dar, S.F.I. Qadri, S. Ashraf, S.A. Nagoo and Z. I. Buhroo','205 Study on Impact of the Socio Economic Conditions of Thesericultural Farmers on Cocoon Production Ishfaq Ahmad Bhat.pdf','',1,'Sericulture industry is of great economic importance to state as it gives occupation to large number of people. Jammu and Kashmir is the only state in the country that is at the same altitude as the world\'s leading Bivoltine sericulture countries and has a climatic advantage over the other states in the production of Bivoltine cocoons and silk. Although maximum productivity is a must for any business, whether industrial or agricultural. This is also true for sericulture, which in Kashmir is characterised by low productivity and higher production costs. In India’s raw silk production contribution of Jammu & Kashmir state is very small, although Kashmir was at one time the premier producer of silk in the country yet with the passage of time there has been a decline in cocoon production. In Kashmir division sericulture is practiced in ten districts among which Anantnag Pulwama, Kupwara and Baramulla are famous for cocoon production yet Anantnag district is considered to be famous and traditional district of sericulture with the well organized base and emotional attachment of the people with sericulture where 121 villages are even now involved in sericulture having more than 1399 sericulture families producing 56622 kgs of cocoons from 1304 ozs of silkworm eggs (DFLs) and earning Rs. 1,35,72,951.00. Technology dissemination is regarded as more important than technological development. The partial adoption of new technologies leads to loss of interest and confidence of the farmers towards new developments. personal, economic, communicational and psychological characteristics. With this background, current study was conducted at district Anantnag to find the impact of socio economic conditions of sericultural farmers on the cocoon production. ','Anantnag, Cocoon production, Study, Respondents, Sericulture','Farmers having high source of information, high rearing capacity, high area under mulberry and high land holdings were having a high cocoon production. In order to increase the cocoon production further in the investigated area there is much need of awareness about latest sericultural technologies. Furthermore, proper extension support for the transfer of technologies from the lab to the field is critical in the adoption of new practices. Extension activities should be designed in such a way that farmers are convinced of the benefits of using improved techniques.','-','Iqra Khan, Masarat Bashir, N.A. Ganie, Asif Rafiq, Ishfaq Ahmad Bhat, K.A. Dar, S. F.I. Qadri, S. Ashraf, S.A. Nagoo and Z.I. Buhroo (2022). Study on impact of the socio economic conditions of the sericultural farmers on cocoon production. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 14(4): 1153-1156.'),(5793,'146','Effect of Macro and Micronutrients on Nutrient Uptake, Yield and Economics in Transplanted Teff (Eragrostis tef (Zucc.) Trotter)','Gouravva Irappa Modagi, A.S. Halepayti, B.G. Koppalkar, K.A. Hiremath and S.R. Balanagoudar','206 Effect of Macro and Micronutrients on Nutrient Uptake, Yield and Economics in Transplanted Teff _Eragrostis tef _Zucc._ Trotter_ Gouravva Irappa Modagi.pdf','',4,'A field experiment was conducted at College of Agriculture Farm, Raichur on medium deep black soil during kharif, 2021 to study the effect of macro and micronutrients on nutrient uptake, yield and economics of teff (Eragrostis tef (Zucc.) Trotter). The results revealed that, application of 25:10:10 kg NPK ha-1 recorded significantly higher uptake of nitrogen (70.53 kg ha-1), phosphorus (19.97 kg ha-1), potassium (28.03 kg ha-1), grain yield (419 kg ha-1), straw yield (736 kg ha-1), net returns (Rs. 1,07,804 ha-1) and B:C (3.89). Among the micronutrients, combined application of ZnSO4 @ 5 kg ha-1 and FeSO4 @ 7.5 kg ha-1 recorded significantly higher uptake of nitrogen (59.39 kg ha-1), phosphorus (15.31 kg ha-1), potassium (23.45 kg ha-1), grain yield (361 kg ha-1), straw yield (602 kg ha-1) and net returns (Rs. 85,975 ha-1). The interaction effect of macro and micronutrients were non significant. ','Micronutrients, Significant, Teff, Uptake','Application of 125 per cent RDF (25:10:10 kg NPK ha-1) along with combined application of ZnSO4 @ 5 kg ha-1 and FeSO4 @ 7.5 kg ha-1 recorded significantly higher nutrient uptake, grain yield, straw yield, harvest index, gross returns, net returns and benefit cost ratio. However, interaction effect of macro and micronutrients was found to be non significant with respect to yield and economics of teff. ','-','Gouravva Irappa Modagi, A.S. Halepayti, B.G. Koppalkar, K.A. Hiremath and S.R. Balanagoudar (2022). Effect of Macro and Micronutrients on Nutrient Uptake, Yield and Economics in Transplanted Teff (Eragrostis tef (Zucc.) Trotter). Biological Forum – An International Journal, 14(4): 1157-1161.'),(5794,'146','Effect of Macro and Micronutrients on Nutrient Uptake, Yield and Economics in Transplanted Teff (Eragrostis tef (Zucc.) Trotter)','Gouravva Irappa Modagi, A.S. Halepayti, B.G. Koppalkar, K.A. Hiremath and S.R. Balanagoudar','206 Effect of Macro and Micronutrients on Nutrient Uptake, Yield and Economics in Transplanted Teff _Eragrostis tef _Zucc._ Trotter_ Gouravva Irappa Modagi.pdf','',1,'A field experiment was conducted at College of Agriculture Farm, Raichur on medium deep black soil during kharif, 2021 to study the effect of macro and micronutrients on nutrient uptake, yield and economics of teff (Eragrostis tef (Zucc.) Trotter). The results revealed that, application of 25:10:10 kg NPK ha-1 recorded significantly higher uptake of nitrogen (70.53 kg ha-1), phosphorus (19.97 kg ha-1), potassium (28.03 kg ha-1), grain yield (419 kg ha-1), straw yield (736 kg ha-1), net returns (Rs. 1,07,804 ha-1) and B:C (3.89). Among the micronutrients, combined application of ZnSO4 @ 5 kg ha-1 and FeSO4 @ 7.5 kg ha-1 recorded significantly higher uptake of nitrogen (59.39 kg ha-1), phosphorus (15.31 kg ha-1), potassium (23.45 kg ha-1), grain yield (361 kg ha-1), straw yield (602 kg ha-1) and net returns (Rs. 85,975 ha-1). The interaction effect of macro and micronutrients were non significant. ','Micronutrients, Significant, Teff, Uptake','Application of 125 per cent RDF (25:10:10 kg NPK ha-1) along with combined application of ZnSO4 @ 5 kg ha-1 and FeSO4 @ 7.5 kg ha-1 recorded significantly higher nutrient uptake, grain yield, straw yield, harvest index, gross returns, net returns and benefit cost ratio. However, interaction effect of macro and micronutrients was found to be non significant with respect to yield and economics of teff. ','-','Gouravva Irappa Modagi, A.S. Halepayti, B.G. Koppalkar, K.A. Hiremath and S.R. Balanagoudar (2022). Effect of Macro and Micronutrients on Nutrient Uptake, Yield and Economics in Transplanted Teff (Eragrostis tef (Zucc.) Trotter). Biological Forum – An International Journal, 14(4): 1157-1161.'),(5795,'146','Development and Optimization of Sorghum-Flakes Based Nutribar for Physcio Chemical and Organoleptic Evaluation','Joshi P.T., S.K. Sadawarte, V.S. Pawar and Giri S.A.','207 Development and Optimization of Sorghum-Flakes Based Nutribar for Physcio Chemical and Organoleptic Evaluation Joshi P.pdf','',1,'Nutribar is a highly nutritious snack food that can be prepared using variety of ingredients as cereals, legumes, oilseed and many more. Flakes based bar now becoming popular due to its nutritional value and ease of availability. The present study was conducted for standardize the procedure for preparation of sorghum flakes based nutribar and its optimization for sensory parameters and proximate composition. Nutribar formulated using sorghum flakes, rice flakes, sesame, peanut, jaggery and liquid glucose. While preparing confectionary product like nutribar the challenges occurs as selection of ingredient that will provide nutrition and results in acceptable taste. The findings revealed that nutribar with 20% sorghum flakes and 10% rice flakes were highly acceptable. Prepared bar was rectangular in shape, weight, length and width of all samples were found to be almost same. Further the proximate composition was assessed and found that protein content ranged from (13.51 -14.42%), carbohydrate (62.51-63.59%) and crude fiber ranged from (5.61-6.34%).','Nutribar, Sorghum flakes, Rice flakes, Organoleptic evaluation, Proximate composition','The study concluded that different formulations of sorghum flakes based nutribar were organoleptically acceptable, in which T2 sample scored highest for overall acceptability. The developed nutribar was found to be high in carbohydrates, protein and fiber with good amount of fat. Hence, it is recommended that sorghum flakes based nutribars are better in terms of sensory attributes, rich in nutrients and techno-economically feasible which can be explored on commercial level.','-','Joshi P.T., S.K. Sadawarte, V.S. Pawar and Giri S.A. (2022). Development and Optimization of Sorghum-Flakes Based Nutribar for Physcio Chemical and Organoleptic Evaluation. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 14(4): 1162-1165.'),(5796,'146','Studies on the Performance of Onion (Allium cepa L.) varieties Intercropping in Pre-bearing Kinnow (Citrus reticulata Blanco) Orchard','Shubham Yadav, Bhagwan Deen and K.S. Yadav','208 Studies on the Performance of Onion _Allium cepa L._ varieties Intercropping in Pre-bearing Kinnow _Citrus reticulata Blanco_ Orchard Shubham Yadav.pdf','',1,'The present investigation was carried out in Kinnow orchard during the year 2019-20 at the Main Experiment Station, Department of Fruit Science, Acharya Narendra Deva University of Agriculture and Technology Kumarganj, Ayodhya, in Randomized Block Design (RBD) with four treatments, comprised of onion varieties Pusa Madhavi, Puna Fursungi, N-53 and Agrifound Light Red with four replications of each treatment. Observations were recorded on Plant height, leaf length, leaves per plant, neck length, neck diameter, bulb height, bulb diameter, days of maturity, moisture content in bulb, total soluble solids of bulb and yield. From the findings of present investigation, it can be inferred that the highest plant height, leaf length, neck length, neck diameter, bulb height, bulb diameter, days of maturity and dry matter content were found in Agrifound Light Red and maximum leaves per plant, neck diameter, moisture content, bulb weight and yield were found in N-53. The highest total soluble solids was found in Poona Fursungi.It can be concluded that N-53 variety of onion can be cultivated in pre-bearing Kinnow orchard as intercropping for maximum return.','Intercropping, Kinnow, Onion, N-53, Pusa Madhavi, Puna Fursungi, Agrifound Light Red, Citrus reticulata Blanco, Citrus','It can be concluded that N-53 variety of onion performed better among all four verities which were intercropped in pre bearing Kinnow orchard during the study and it can be recommend to the farmers to intercrop such vegetable crops being short duration, shallow-rooted will not only help the farmers to utilize the vacant space efficiently but also enable them to earn additional income from the same piece of land.','-','Shubham Yadav, Bhagwan Deen and K.S. Yadav (2022). Studies on the Performance of Onion (Allium cepa L.) varieties Intercropping in Pre-bearing Kinnow (Citrus reticulata Blanco) Orchard. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 14(4): 1166-1170.'),(5797,'146','A Study on Market Orientation and Entrepreneurial Ecosystem Analysis of Agri Startups in Telangana State','B. Divya, M. Preethi, M. Prasuna and Aparna Kuna','209 A Study on Market Orientation and Entrepreneurial Ecosystem Analysis of Agri Startups in Telangana State B. Divya.pdf','',1,'India’s startup ecosystem has become an example for the entire world. With hundreds of innovative youngsters choosing to pursue the path of entrepreneurship instead of joining the corporate industry or the government sectors. The agri-startup entrepreneurs faced some challenges in maintaining the startup i.e., financial, scaling up, establishment related and marketing, human resource related challenges. Ex- post facto research design was adopted for the study and purposive random sampling was done for selection of respondents. A total of 60 agri-startups were taken for the study from Telangana state. The findings showed that majority (35.00%) of the respondents belonged to young and early middle age group, 68.30 percent were male respondents, 91.67 percent of the respondents were graduates, 71.67 percent of the respondents had high level of market orientation and 81.67 percent of the respondents had high entrepreneurial ecosystem. There was a significant association (0.602**) between the market orientation and entrepreneurial ecosystem.','Agri-startup, market orientation, entrepreneurial ecosystem','Findings of this study showed that majority of the respondents belonged to young and early middle age groups and belonged to male category. The majority (81.67%) of the respondents had high level of entrepreneurial ecosystem and remaining 18.33 percent had medium level of entrepreneurial ecosystem. The association between the market orientation and entrepreneurial ecosystem was positive and significant. Improving their market orientation and change in their attitude towards their Agri-startup business, can make a world of difference to these startup enterprise. The startups playing a major role in employment generation and job creation which lead to economic growth and development. There are many ideas and strategies through which one can promote the start-up, but one need to understand the audience, their needs, necessary of product or service and the nature of the business. A successful start-up is not impossible but one need to be sure before every step because of the limited resources, competition in market and understanding about various dimensions in entrepreneurial ecosystem, thinking differently than others and being innovative and creative can get success.','-','B. Divya, M. Preethi, M. Prasuna and Aparna Kuna (2022). A Study on Market Orientation and Entrepreneurial Ecosystem Analysis of Agri Startups in Telangana State. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 14(4): 1171-1174.'),(5798,'147','Impact of Fertigation and Mulching on Vegetative, Flowering, Yield and Nutrient Status of Gladiolus cv. Pusa Jyotsna','Pooja A., Kishan Swaroop, Man Chand Singh, Varun Hiremath and Sneha Nymagoud','17 Impact of Fertigation and Mulching on Vegetative, Flowering, Yield and Nutrient Status of Gladiolus cv. Pusa Jyotsna Pooja A.pdf','',1,'Fertilizers are the main limiting factors affecting the agricultural production. Providing timely fertigation along with mulching in gladiolus is highly essential at critical stages as it indirectly affects root growth, spike and corm yield. However, literature on studies on optimizing fertigation schedule and mulching in gladiolus were found meagre. Hence trials were carried out to study the growth, flowering, yield and nutrient status of gladiolus cv. Pusa Jyotsna under different levels of drip fertigation and mulching during 2019-20 & 2020-21 at CPCT, IARI, New Delhi, involving 4 fertigation levels (100%, 80%, 60% and 120% RDF), 3 mulch levels (control, Silver/black and Yellow/black) set up in a Factorial Randomized Block Design. Fertigation with 80% RDF and Silver/Black mulch recorded earliest days to corms sprouting, highest leaf chlorophyll, least days to flowering, highest spike length, most florets/spike, longer duration of flowering, highest spikes/ha, highest corms/ha, higher available N, P and K (kg/ha) in soil. This study concluded that combination of drip fertigation at 80% RDF and Silver/Black mulch was effective in boosting yield and producing high-quality flowers.','Gladiolus, Fertigation, Mulching, Growth, Yield, Nutrient status','According to the findings of the study, the combination of drip fertigation at 80% RDF and silver/black mulch significantly increased the majority of the characters viz vegetative, flowering, and NPK content in soil as well as leaves of the gladiolus cv. Pusa Jyotsna as compared to other treatments. Additionally, using 80% RDF + Silver/Black Mulch helps to properly utilise fertilisers by lowering cost by up to 20%, saving labour costs, and having a significant impact on crop yields, quality, growth, and water and nutrient conservation when compared to other conventional irrigation and fertilisation methods.','-','Pooja A., Kishan Swaroop, Man Chand Singh, Varun Hiremath and Sneha Nymagoud (2022). Effect Impact of Fertigation and Mulching on Vegetative, Flowering, Yield and Nutrient Status of Gladiolus cv. Pusa Jyotsna. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 14(4a): 91-97.'),(5799,'146','Melissopalynological Analysis of Honey for Assessment of Nectariferous Resources of European Honey Bees (Apis mellifera L.) in Mid Hills of \r\nHimachal Pradesh\r\n','Kiran Rana, Abhivivek, Rohit Kumar Nayak, Monika, Mangla Ram Bajiya and Narinderjeet Singh','210 Melissopalynological Analysis of Honey for Assessment of Nectariferous Resources of European Honey Bees _Apis mellifera L._ in Mid Hills of Himachal Pradesh Rohit Kumar Nayak.pdf','',1,'The experiment was carried out to determine the nectar resources of the European honey bees (Apis mellifera L.) through melissopalynological analysis of honey samples at Dr. YS Parmar University of Horticulture and Forestry, Nauni (Solan) Himachal Pradesh. Three colonies of A. mellifera were chosen from the existing stock in the university apiary with high honey hoarding to collect honey samples throughout the year at a 15 days interval. Melissopalynological analysis of honey samples from A. mellifera throughout the year revealed the presence of 47 nectar resources from 23 different families, including the following: Asteraceae, Rosaceae, Fabaceae, Malvaceae, Violaceae, Caprifoliaceae, Myrtaceae, Lythraceae, Apiaceae, Proteaceae, Bignoniaceae, Meliaceae, Apocynaceae, Euphorbiaceae, Mimosaceae, Chenopodiaceae, Oxalidaceae, Aizoaceae, Cannabaceae, Sapindaceae, Lamiaceae, Acanthaceae and Cruciferae. The Asteraceae family (9) had the most species that produced nectar, followed by the Rosaceae family (8) and the Fabaceae family (7). The identified nectar flora includes weeds, ornamentals, horticultural plants, food plants, oil seed plants, and wild plants. This study contributes knowledge about nectariferous foraging plants that is crucial for the growth of A. mellifera colonies in mid hills of Himachal Pradesh.','Melissopalynological analysis, honey samples, Apis mellifera, nectar resources','The identification of nectar sources for honey bees and an improvement in plant conservation will be made possible by the studies on pollen morphology and the melissopalynological analysis of honey. Farmers can be advised to plant and conserve crops with multiple uses that can also be food for honeybees.','-','Kiran Rana, Abhivivek, Rohit Kumar Nayak, Monika, Mangla Ram Bajiya and Narinderjeet Singh (2022). Melissopalynological Analysis of Honey for Assessment of Nectariferous Resources of European Honey Bees (Apis mellifera L.) in Mid Hills of Himachal Pradesh. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 14(4): 1175-1181.'),(5800,'146','Evaluation of different Botanicals for the Management of Late Blight (Phytophthora infestans) of Potato in Karnataka','Mahaveer N. Shebannavar, Devappa V., Ramachandra R.K., Anjaneya Reddy B. and Sangeetha C.G.','211 Evaluation of different Botanicals for the Management of Late Blight _Phytophthora infestans_ of Potato in Karnataka Anjaneya Reddy B.pdf','',1,'Amongst all the vegetables, potato is one of the most important tuberous crops and is being constrained by many diseases like early blight, late blight, wart, black scurf, powdery scab etc. One of them which becomes endemic in a particular area and brings > 60 % yield loss is late blight of potato. It is caused by Phytophthora infestans, which can affect the crop both qualitatively as well as quantitatively if no early measures are adopted in a short period. Prolonged usage of fungicides has a long-lasting negative impact on bio-diversity with increase in cost of cultivation. With this back ground, totally 20 plant extracts (botanicals) were examined under in-vitro conditions, using three methods viz., water extraction, methanol extraction and ethanol extraction methods. The results revealed that in water extraction method the clove extract was very effective in suppressing mycelial growth of Phytophthora infestans. While in methanol extraction, clove extract, black pepper, thyme, turmeric and pepper mint had shown a very good response to supress the pathogen at all the concentrations tested. But in ethanol extraction method, it was observed that clove and black pepper were the best ones with 100 per cent inhibition for ten days. Among all the methods, ethanol extraction method was found to be the most effective extractant whereas clove and thyme extracts had a good potential anti-fungal property.','Botanical extracts, Late blight, Potato, Phytophthora infestans','Late blight of potato is one of the serious fungal diseases which has become very difficult to control even with the continuous use of fungicides creating additional production costs and adverse environmental hazards besides the development of resistance against fungicides. In order to avoid these adverse effects, the importance must be given towards the usage of eco-friendly measures in the form of botanicals. Hence, 20 plant extracts were used using three extraction methods viz., water, ethanol and methanol extraction methods. \r\nThe results of the water extraction method and tested under in vitro conditions revealed that the extractants from clove was very effective (100 per cent inhibition) in suppressing the mycelial growth of Phytophthora infestans at all the concentrations viz., 5,10 and 15 per cent tested even after 10th day of incubation.\r\nWhile in methanol extraction method, the clove extract has inhibited 100 per cent mycelial growth at all the concentrations tested followed by thyme extract with 94.37 per cent inhibition at 5 per cent concentration, 95.77 per cent at 10 per cent concentration and 98.53 per cent at 15 per cent concentration even after ten days of incubation. In ethanol extraction, clove and thyme extracts had 100 per cent inhibition at all the three concentrations tested even after ten days of incubation. \r\nAmong the different extraction methods, the ethanol extraction method was found to be effective, while among the plant products used clove and thyme extracts were very effective with 100 per cent inhibition against Phytophthora infestans growth under in-vitro conditions even after ten days of incubation. These products can be further studied under natural conditions to ascertain its field efficacy.\r\n','-','Mahaveer N. Shebannavar, Devappa V., Ramachandra R.K., Anjaneya Reddy B. and Sangeetha C.G. (2022). Evaluation of different Botanicals for the Management of Late Blight (Phytophthora infestans) of Potato in Karnataka. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 14(4): 1182-1187.'),(5801,'146','Healthy Saplings – Key to Sustainable Pomegranate Production','N.V. Singh, Omkar Salunkhe, Chandrakant Awachare, Unnati Salutgi, Bhavya Sharma, Shilpa Parashuram and R.A. Marathe','212 Healthy Saplings – Key to Sustainable Pomegranate Production N.V. Singh.pdf','',1,'Pomegranate is a commercial fruit crop of semi-arid regions of the world. It is an ancient fruit crop in modern horticulture catering nutritional, nutraceutical and livelihood needs of its stakeholders. During recent years, the crop has gained tremendous popularity due to its versatile adaptability, hardy nature, nutritional and industrial values. The many-folds increment in the pomegranate acreage globally demands large scale availability of elite planting material. India alone needs about 15 million healthy saplings annually to match the pace of pomegranate expansion in the country. The challenges like pomegranate bacterial blight and wilt, which are many-a-times transmitted to distant places through infected saplings or potting mixture (wilt complex) causing severe crop losses thus are major threats for the sustainable pomegranate production. The situation warrants large scale production of QPM to avoid spread of these diseases and ensure sustained profit in pomegranate cultivation. To meet the progressively increasing healthy sapling requirement in pomegranate, the conventional commercial propagation methods like stem cuttings and air layering must be upgraded with standard sanitation nursery management protocols to ensure healthy sapling production and the emerging commercial propagation methods like micropropagation needs to be promoted. The research on screening of wild pomegranate germplasm and the utilization of promising ones as roots tocks should be intensified and larger scale field trials on grafted plants should be taken up under different pomegranate growing regions to meet the vision of climate smart pomegranate production system in near future.','Pomegranate Propagation, Air layering, Stem Cuttings, Grafting and Budding','The foundation for ensuring sustained profitable yield in pomegranate is the use of quality planting material from the certified source for establishing orchards. The acreage under pomegranate in expanding and so the disease and pests and many of them are spreading through infected planting material. Thus, there is an urgent need to multiply true-to-the type planting material following standard propagation methods, proper sanitation and nursery management protocols. The commercial propagation methods namely, air layering, stem cutting and micropropagation should be utilized to meet the increasing requirement of healthy planting material with strong regulatory framework. The research on exploitation of rootstocks for climate resilient pomegranate production system needs to be up scaled and intensified. ','-','N.V. Singh, Omkar Salunkhe, Chandrakant Awachare, Unnati Salutgi, Bhavya Sharma, Shilpa Parashuram and R.A. Marathe (2022). Healthy Saplings – Key to Sustainable Pomegranate Production. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 14(4): 1188-1194.'),(5802,'146','Assessment of Correlation coefficients among the Yield related Traits in Tomato (Solanum lycopersicum L.) Germplasm','Lokesh Yadav, G.C. Yadav, Shalu Yadav, Anoj Yadav and Vishva Deepak Chaturvedi','213 Assessment of Correlation coefficients among the Yield related Traits in Tomato _Solanum lycopersicum L._ Germplasm Lokesh Yadav.pdf','',1,'Present investigation was conducted 32 genotypes of tomato at the Main Experimental Station, Department of Vegetable Science, Acharya Narendra Deva University of Agriculture and Technology, Narendra Nagar (Kumarganj), Ayodhya (U.P.) during Rabi 2020-21. The investigation was carried out in randomized block design with three replications to find out correlation coefficient among fourteen characters. In general, genotypic correlation coefficients were higher than the corresponding phenotypic correlation coefficients suggesting strong inherent relationship in different pair of traits. The most important trait, total fruit yield per plant had significant and positive phenotypic correlation coefficient with marketable fruit yield per plant, average fruit weight, equatorial diameter of fruit, polar diameter of fruit and number of fruits per plant. The findings revealed that selection for these traits would be effective for yield improvement. ','Tomato, germplasms, correlation coefficients','Based on overall findings of the present study, it can be concluded that there is significant correlation of different traits with fruit yield per plant. Hence there is great scope of improvement in fruit yield by performing selection of related traits in tomato. ','-','Lokesh Yadav, G.C. Yadav, Shalu Yadav, Anoj Yadav and Vishva Deepak Chaturvedi (2022). Assessment of Correlation coefficients Among the Yield Related Traits in Tomato (Solanum lycopersicum L.) Germplasm. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 14(4): 1195-1198.'),(5803,'147','Standardization of Time for Inarching in Guava cv. Allahabad Safeda','K. Romandeep and K. Amarjeet','18 Standardization of Time for Inarching in Guava cv. Allahabad SafedaAmarjeet Kaur.pdf','',1,'Guava (Psidium guajava L.) is an important fruit known for its food and nutritional values. It occupies a key position among all the fruit crops. Propagation of guava by the means of inarching has been reported by the various researches. Inarching is an old traditional method of propagation in which two plants are joined while growing on their own roots. To find the most appropriate time of inarching in guava, a research study was carried in Randomized Block Design comprising of nine dates of inarching from May 1st -September 1st with 15 days interval replicated thrice. The findings of the research study revealed that inarching performed in the middle of July (15th) resulted in the highest sprouting and survival percentage of guava with maximum vegetative growth in terms of new growth, primary branches, leaf production and rooting parameters. Hence inarching during July can be considered as the most suitable time for inarching in guava.','Guava, Inarching, Propagation, Rooting, Sprouting, Success, Survival','Based on the above findings, it can be concluded that inarching performed during July-August proved to be the best for survival percentage and vegetative growth of grafts. Hence it is the most appropriate interval for the superior plant production of guava cv. Allahabad Safeda commercially.','-','K. Romandeep and K. Amarjeet (2022). Standardization of Time for Inarching in Guava cv. Allahabad Safeda. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 14(4a): 98-103.'),(5804,'147','Effect of Malting on Nutritional and Anti-nutritional Properties of Quinoa (Chenopodium quinoa)','Wanole P.D., Pawar V.S. and Dhadke S.G.','19 Effect of Malting on Nutritional and Anti-nutritional Properties of Quinoa _Chenopodium quinoa_ Wanole P.D.pdf','',1,'The purpose of this study was to assess the effect of soaking and germination on nutritional composition, anti-nutritional factor, mineral content of quinoa grains. During the soaking and germination period increased the protein and fibre content from 14.3±0.02 to 17.4±0.02 % and 4.69±0.02 to 5.02±0.06 %, respectively. Reduced the tannin, phytic acid, and saponin content from 0.048 % to 0.024%, 1.15 % to 0.65% and 0.84% to 0.42% respectively. The anti-nutritional factors reduced during washing and soaking quinoa grains. Germinated quinoa grains produced rich protein and fibre content. Germination is a simple way for reducing phytic acid in quinoa and may also improve its nutritional quality, making it suitable for use in functional foods, bakery items, infant food, and vegetarian diets. This study shows that within which soaking and germination time period quinoa grains sprouts early and can be used quickly. ','Soaking, germination, pseudocereal, nutritional, antinutritional properties, mineral content','The present investigation was planned with the study effect of soaking and germination period increased protein and fibre content but it decreased the antinutritional properties (saponnin, tannin and phytic acid) and improved nutritional value also bioavailability of minerals (Ca and zinc) and protein digestibility. ','-','Wanole P.D., Pawar V.S. and Dhadke S.G. (2022). Effect of Malting on Nutritional and Anti-nutritional Properties of Quinoa (Chenopodium quinoa). Biological Forum – An International Journal, 14(4a): 104-108.'),(5805,'147','Appraisement of Genetic Variability for Yield and other Quantitative Traits in Derived Germplasm of Indian Bean [Lablab purpureus (L.) Sweet]','Rutvik J. Joshi, K.G. Modha, V.L. Parmar, V.B. Rana, Naresh Chaudhary, A.V. Malaviya and Naveen Y.K.V.','20 Appraisement of Genetic Variability for Yield and other Quantitative Traits in Derived Germplasm of Indian Bean [Lablab purpureus _L._ Sweet] Rutvik J. Joshi.pdf','',1,'The presence of variation in a population is key to select desirable plants for further improvement. The experiment was done to assess the 135 germplasm derived from four crosses along with four checks GNIB-21, GNIB-22, V-19-154 and W-19-58 were grown in augmented block design. Analysis showed significant genotype mean square values for all the traits except pods per raceme. In the present investigation, based on per se performance V-19-78, V-19-107, V-19-111 and V-19-115 were identified as promising genotypes in the current study because they had higher grain yields per plant. Selection for determinate growth habit with high yield potential can help in mechanized harvesting in lablab bean. These genotypes could be further examined in order to identify attributes that lead to higher yields, early maturity and better yield. Based on all of the research, it can be said that racemes per plant is the most significant trait in Indian bean seed yield. As, this trait showed higher estimates of GCV, PCV, h2(bs) and GAM.','Augmented Block Design, Derived germplasm, Variability, Heritability, Genetic Advance, Indian bean','According to the studies mentioned above, racemes per plant, pods per raceme, pods per plant and seeds per pod are the most crucial component characters for increasing grain yield per plant; as a result, these traits should be taken into consideration when choosing parents for breeding programme aimed at increasing seed yield in Indian beans.','-','Rutvik J. Joshi, K.G. Modha, V.L. Parmar, V.B. Rana, Naresh Chaudhary, A.V. Malaviya and\r\nNaveen Y.K.V. (2022). Appraisement of Genetic Variability for Yield and other Quantitative Traits in Derived Germplasm of Indian Bean [Lablab purpureus (L.) Sweet]. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 14(4a): 109-114.\r\n'),(5806,'146','Effect of Popping on Nutritional Composition of Sorghum','Dhadke S.G., Pawar V.S. and Wanole P.D.','214 Effect of Popping on Nutritional Composition of Sorghum Dhadke S.G.pdf','',1,'Sorghum is a nutritionally dense millet in the grain family that plays a significant part in our daily diet. Sorghum is gluten free and is rich in fiber and minerals. Sorghum may be used in different food items if adequate processing processes are used. Sorghum may also be made into a nutritious food by a popping approach. Popping is a traditional process that improves the shelf-life of grains as well as helps to preserve their nutritional value. It enhances the flavour of the grains, so their acceptability. This study investigates the influence of popping on proximate composition and minerals of Dagdi variety (local variety) of sorghum. The results revealed that the moisture varied from 8.31±0.2 to 5.28±0.7%, protein 11.30±0.2 to 12.45±0.01%, fat 1.56±0.02 to 1.07±0.01%, ash 1.40±0.1 to 1.88±0.01%, crude fiber 1.45±0.02 to 1.72±0.01 and carbohydrate from 75.45±0.5 to 76.98±0.1%. The mineral content was well preserved. The zinc content ranges from 1.172 to 1.431, iron ranges from 5.589 to 6.276, manganese ranges from 0.698 to 0.936 and copper ranges from 0.164 to 0.256 mg/100g. ','Sorghum, Popping, Nutrients, chemical composition, Mineral content','This study shows that the chemical composition of raw sorghum is improved after popping as there is increase in the protein and carbohydrate content. It is also found that the mineral content of raw sorghum is retained. Popped sorghum can be considered as a healthy snack food.','-','Dhadke S.G., Pawar V.S. and Wanole P.D. (2022). Effect of Popping on Nutritional Composition of Sorghum. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 14(4): 1199-1202.'),(5807,'146','Evaluation of Weed Parameters in Rice Fallow Crops under Zero-till System with Limited Irrigation','T. Kanna, B. Rajendra Kumar, A. Upendra Rao and G. Mohan Naidu','215 Evaluation of Weed Parameters in Rice Fallow Crops under Zero-till System with Limited Irrigation T. Kanna.pdf','',1,'A field experiment was conducted in sandy loam soils to study the impact of weeds at 20, 40 and 60 DAS with limited number of irrigations in six different crops under zero till system in rice fallows during rabi, 2021-22 at Agricultural College Farm, Naira. Weeds are the major problem in rice fallows that shows direct impact on growth and yields of various fallow crops. Yield can be attained with proper management practices like hand weedings at every 15 days interval and with the irrigations that were provided to different fallow crops. The experiment was laid out in split-plot design, replicated thrice with six treatments. The weed count and weed dry weight was non-significant with number of irrigations in six fallow crops at 20 and 40 DAS. At 20 DAS weed count was highest with three irrigations (41 m-2) and gradually decreased with reduced number of irrigations and lowest with two irrigations (40.07 m-2). At 40 DAS weed count was highest with four irrigations (51.92 m-2) and lowest with two irrigations (49.64 m-2). At 20 DAS weed dry weight was highest with three irrigations (13.23 m-2) and lowest with two irrigations (12.59 m-2). At 40 DAS weed dry weight was highest with four irrigations (26.08 m-2) and lowest with two irrigations (25.46 m-2). Significant difference was recorded in weed count and weed dry weight at 60 DAS. The interaction effect of weed count and weed dry weight at 60 DAS was significant with number of irrigations in six fallow crops.','Limited irrigation, Rice fallows, Zero-till system','Among six fallow crops significantly higher weed counts and dry weight was observed in Maize followed by Sorghum.\r\nConspicuously weed count and dry weight was low with Sunhemp and Blackgram due to more weed suppression and smothering ability of Sunhemp and Blackgram compared to erect growing crops Maize and Sorghum. \r\nBetter management of weeds in fallow crops by hand weedings at 15 days interval and with suitable recommended chemical sprayings will enhance and improve the overall production and productivity of the system. \r\n','-','T. Kanna, B. Rajendra Kumar, A. Upendra Rao and G. Mohan Naidu (2022). Evaluation of Weed Parameters in Rice Fallow Crops under Zero-till System with Limited Irrigation. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 14(4): 1203-1208.'),(5808,'147','The Effect of Banana Cultivar and Maturity Stage on Flour Production','Gururaj Basavaraj Bagalakot, H.S. Chaitanya, Y. Kantharaj, B.S. Shivakumar and S.M. Jayaprakash','21 The Effect of Banana Cultivar and Maturity Stage on Flour Production H.S. Chaitanya.pdf','',1,'Banana flour has been recognized as functional ingredient, owing to its healthy nutritional pattern. Nevertheless, unripe and ripe banana flours show different characteristics and scarce information is available about changes undergone during banana ripening. The experiment was carried out during 2021-22 at the College of Horticulture, Mudigere, under laboratory conditions. The experiment was laid out in Factorial Completely Randomized Design (FCRD) with two factors viz., C- Cultivars of banana (C1 - Ney Poovan, C2 - Nendran, C3 - Mysore baale, C4 - Grand naine C5 - Rajapuri), M- Maturity stage (M1 - Unripe stage, M2 - Ripe stage) and their interaction (C×M) in 3 replications. The main objective was to evaluate banana cultivars and the stage of harvest for flour production. Powder recovery (%) was found to be maximum in C2M1 (Nendran at the unripe stage; 25.87%), drying duration was minimum (2 hrs. 55 min) in C1M1 (Ney Poovan at the unripe stage) and the highest overall organoleptic evaluation score was noticed in C2M1 (4.65). Based on Powder recovery (%) and organoleptic evaluation, it was proved that C2M1 is best suited for flour production.','Cultivars, maturity stage, powder recovery percentage, drying duration','The treatment combination C2M1 (Nendran at unripe stage) showed the maximum powder recovery percentage (25.87%), the minimum drying duration and a good sensory score. Based on the above findings, the cultivar C2 (Nendran) and unripe stage (M1) combination proved to be best for flour production.','-','Gururaj Basavaraj Bagalakot, H.S. Chaitanya, Y. Kantharaj, B.S. Shivakumar and S.M. Jayaprakash (2022). The Effect of Banana Cultivar and Maturity Stage on Flour Production. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 14(4a): 115-119.'),(5809,'147','Effect of different varieties of Cynodon dactylon and Plant Spacing on Growth and Spreading of Turf under South Gujarat condition','K.S. Solanki, G.D. Patel, Mallika Sindha and Chandana Shivaswamy','22 Effect of different varieties of Cynodon dactylon and Plant Spacing on Growth and Spreading of Turf under South Gujarat condition K.S. Solanki.pdf','',1,'Cynodon dactylon, popularly known as Bermuda grass, is a typical warm-season grass that can tolerate drought stress and produce high-quality turf. The first and most crucial requirement for a well-established and appealing turf is the selection of the proper grass species and establishment methods. Good ground cover is accomplished with an appropriate planting technique. Therefore, when establishing a lawn, using the right method that is appropriate for particular grass species or varieties is more crucial. An experiment consists two factor, Factor-I was varieties of Cynodon dactylon grass (V1: Tifdwarf, V2: Selection-1, V3: Locally available varieties) and factor-II was Spacing (S1: 10 cm × 10 cm, S2: 15 cm × 15 cm, S3: 20 cm × 20 cm). According to the findings, dibble of C. dactylon var. Tifdwarf or Selection-1 planted at 10 cm × 10 cm distance favoured quick grass establishment, proper growth habit for less frequent lawn mowing, and higher visual quality score with deprived weed growth. Furthermore, V3S3 had the greatest root depth and the longest runner length. V1S3 (Tifdwarf planted at 20 cm × 20 cm) had the most nodes on the runner. However, least time for full turfgrass establishment and fresh weight of biomass at 60 DAP, were observed with V1S1. According to the findings, dibble of C. dactylon var. Tifdwarf or Selection-1 planted at 10 cm 10 cm distance favoured quick grass establishment, proper growth habit for less frequent lawn mowing and higher visual quality score with less weed growth.','Establishment, Growth, Lawn, Spacing, Turfgrass, Varieties','The results and discussion thus far lead to the conclusion that a dibble of Cynodon dactylon var. Tifdwarf or Selection-1, favours quick turf establishment, an appropriate growth habit for less frequent lawn mowing, and higher visual quality scores with deprivative weed growth when placed at a distance of 10 cm × 10 cm.','-','K.S. Solanki, G.D. Patel, Mallika Sindha and Chandana Shivaswamy (2022). Effect of different varieties of Cynodon dactylon and Plant Spacing on Growth and Spreading of Turf under South Gujarat condition. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 14(4a): 120-126.'),(5810,'147','Estimation of Heterosis in newly evolved Hybrids of Silkworm (Bombyx mori L.) at Laboratory condition','Ambilwade P.P., Undirwade D.B., Latpate C.B., Rathod P.K. and Kulkarni U.S.','23 Estimation of Heterosis in newly evolved Hybrids of Silkworm _Bombyx mori L._ at Laboratory Condition Ambilwade P.pdf','',1,'In order to meet the large requirements of the silk industry, different silkworm hybrids, which can sustain in high temperature and humidity, needs to be developed so that they get well adapted under local climatic conditions for stable cocoon production. Thus, there is a need to make new hybrids and to evaluate them for high productivity suitable for this region. In the present study, an attempt was made to evaluate and identify the promising silkworm hybrids raised by involving five multivoltine breeds (BL24,BL67,C. Nichi,Hosa Mysore and MY1) and one bivoltine breed (CSR5) at VNMKV, Parbhani and Dr. PDKV, Akola during 2020-21 and 2021-22 respectively. Observations made for four economically important traits namely; larval weight, single cocoon weight, Cocoon filament length and Cocoon yield/10,000 larvae brushed. The data was subjected to the estimation of heterosis in relation to mid parent value and heterobeltiosis in relation to better parent value revealed that the hybrids namely BL 67 × CSR 5, BL67 × Hosa Mysore and CSR 5 × Hosa Mysore and their respective reciprocals viz., CSR 5 × BL 67, Hosa Mysore × BL 67 and Hosa Mysore × CSR 5 were exhibited significant heterosis and heterobeltiosis for all the four traits studied.','Bombyx mori, silkworm, Silkworm breeding, Heterosis, Heterobeltiosis','By considering the heterosis over mid as well as better parent, three crosses namely BL 67 × CSR 5, BL67 × Hosa Mysore and CSR 5 × Hosa Mysore and their respective reciprocals viz. CSR 5 × BL 67, Hosa Mysore × BL 67 and Hosa Mysore × CSR 5 were identified as the promising.','-','Ambilwade P.P., Undirwade D.B., Latpate C.B., Rathod P.K. and Kulkarni U.S. (2022). Estimation of Heterosis in Newly evolved Hybrids of Silkworm (Bombyx mori L.) at Laboratory condition. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 14(4a): 127-133.'),(5811,'147','Insecticidal and Repellent effect of Botanicals against Red Flour Beetle Tribolium castaneum, (Herbst) Pest of Stored Grains','Punam N. Madavi, A.K. Sadawarte, D.B. Undirwade, M.P. Moharil and N.S. Satpute','24 Insecticidal and Repellent effect of Botanicals against Red Flour Beetle Tribolium castaneum, _Herbst_ Pest of Stored Grains Punam N. Madavi.pdf','',1,'Red flour beetle, Tribolium castaneum (herbst), occurs worldwide, is a devastating pest of stored grains particularly the previously damaged cereals. Grub feed on embryo and germ portion of seeds and grains with release of quinines which gives unpleasant odour in serve infestation. To control this pest, chemical pesticides and fumigants are widely employed, which lead to the development of insect resistance. Nowadays, phosphine resistance is a major concern and it also affects human health and the environment. Therefore, it must need to implement an alternative management strategy for pest control. In present study the insecticidal and repellent effect of three botanicals viz. sweet flag (Acorus calamus), black pepper (Piper nigrum), and clove (Syzygium aromaticum) has been evaluated against red flour beetle under laboratory conditions with different exposure time that were replicated thrice. The highest insecticidal effect was observed in black pepper after fifteen days of treatment followed by sweet flag and clove at 88.66%, 85.34%, and 76.56% respectively. Botanical extract exhibited repellent activity against red flour beetle with highest repellency was observed in sweet flag rhizomes extract after 48 hours of treatment 68.42% followed by black pepper and clove at 64.76%, 61.29% respectively. These findings show that sweet flag, black pepper, and clove possess essential components which impart insecticidal and repellent activity to control insect pests.','Acorus calamus, red flour beetle, repellency, insecticidal effects, botanicals','It is concluded that all the three natural plant botanicals have tendency to control T. castaneum population in wheat grains. Black paper and sweet flag shows the highest insecticidal and repellent effect on T. castaneum. These powders can be used as potential agent for the plant protection strategies which are easily available and biodegradable without any risk to human health. Hence further studies should conduct to evaluate the potential of tested botanicals to control the pests of stored grains.','-','Punam N. Madavi, A.K. Sadawarte, D.B. Undirwade, M.P. Moharil and N.S. Satpute (2022). Insecticidal and Repellent effect of Botanicals against Red Flour Beetle Tribolium castaneum, (Herbst) Pest of Stored Grains. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 14(4a): 134-137.'),(5812,'147','To Identify the Potential of Fertilizer Industry in India','Anupam Singh, Anmol Negi, Riya Thakur, Anshumant Sharma, Harshit Doda and Sahil Alohia','25 To Identify the Potential of Fertilizer Industry in India Anmol Negi.pdf','',1,'Humanity\'s three basic requirements are for food, clothing, and shelter. The Indian Constitution addresses all three of these fundamental human requirements. Sadly, despite 68 years of independence, the food crisis has not been resolved. It has increased future demand for the food industry significantly. While more efficient farming methods have made it possible to boost agricultural yields, this has come at the expense of soil fertility. In this sense, using fertilizers has proven a workable approach to maintain the soil\'s nutritional level and boost soil fertility. The fertilizer industry is doing a great job of assisting farmers in raising overall output. The current paper provides a review of earlier marketing research for fertilizers, both domestically and internationally. The essay aims to give readers a comprehensive understanding of the Indian fertilizer industry. There have been attempts to analyze topics including demand and supply positions, consumption trends, and the growth factor of fertilizer in India using secondary data.','Agriculture, Soil fertility, Fertilizer Industry, Growth, Data','The marketing of fertilizers is a crucial component in meeting the needs of the farmer class. Marketers must develop appropriate policies to increase client goodwill, which fosters loyalty. In order to predict the expected future demand for fertilizer products, there are still issues. Before creating important marketing rules, marketers must take into account fundamental issues faced by farmers. In the current fertilizer marketing environment, which is geared toward chemical fertilizers, marketers, academicians, and the farmer class are all included. Future potential for necessary fertilizer is enormous (Urea, N, P, K). Because organic fertilizers produce results slowly and take longer to complete than chemical fertilizers, their use is restricted.','-','Anupam Singh, Anmol Negi, Riya Thakur, Anshumant Sharma, Harshit Doda and Sahil Alohia (2022). To Identify the Potential of Fertilizer Industry in India. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 14(4a): 138-147.'),(5813,'147','Efficient Native Plant Growth Promoting Rhizobacteria and their Role in Plant Growth Promotion and Management of Damping off Disease in Cowpea','Huma Nazneen, Emmadi Venu, Krishnendu Sen, Ritesh Kumar, Krishna Ray, Ashish Roy Barman, S.K. Ray, Raghunath Mandal and Subrata Dutta','26 Efficient Native Plant Growth Promoting Rhizobacteria and their Role in Plant Growth Promotion and Management of Damping off Disease in Cowpea Huma Nazneen.pdf','',1,'Damping-off and collar rot is one of the most important diseases of cowpea causing great menace in cowpea production. Application of chemical fungicides is still being a commonly used approach and rules among all the management approaches. Continuous and non-judicious application of chemical fungicides not only causes environmental hazards and residual toxicity related problems but also may trigger fungicide resistance problem. Disease containment through ecofriendly biocontrol approach, using natural antagonistic plant growth promoting rhizobacteria (PGPR) is now becoming an inevitable component in the integrated management strategy of the disease. Thus, research study was conducted to isolate and evaluate the potent native plant growth promoting rhizobacteria (PGPR) isolates, their potential use for improving growth, yield and management of damping off disease in cow pea. Six potent PGPR strains were isolated and studied for their plant growth promotion, their molecular identification at genus level and management of damping off disease in cowpea. All of the PGPR isolates influenced cowpea growth characteristics. Application of PGPR strains significantly increased root and shoot length, root and shoot biomass by 5.4–53.4%, 9.8–48.6% and 10.8–64.5% and 27.8–103.8% respectively, over the un-inoculated control. Among the six potent PGPR strains Hu3, Hu4, Hu9, Hu14, Hu18 and Hu19; Hu3, Hu18 and Hu19 rhizobacterial isolates were found to be the most effective isolates for rhizosphere competence and plant growth promotion of cowpea seedlings. Also, these isolates Hu3 and Hu18 were more effective in suppressing the pre & post emergence incidence of damping off as compared to other rhizobacteria. The seed and soil treatment with Hu3 and Hu18 rhizobacteria recorded minimum pre-emergence damping-off disease of 5.56 percent in comparison to control. The seed and soil treatment with Hu3 recorded significantly least post-emergence damping off (13.78 percent) comparison to control pot having 50% damping off. The seed and soil treatment with Hu3 recorded significantly maximum (5.33 cm) root length and Hu18 isolate recorded significantly maximum shoot length (21.07 cm) compared to sick pot. Molecular characterization of these isolates showed that these native PGPR rhizobacteria Hu3, Hu9, Hu14, Hu18 and Hu19 were identified as Bacillus spp. based on Bacillus spp. specific primers. The bacterial bioagents Hu3, Hu18 and Hu19 showed effective results in reducing pre- and post-emergence damping-off disease in S. rolfsii pathogen infested soils and also may lead to more seedling vigour and also application of these PGPR rhizobacterial isolates could be a viable supplementary strategy for field level application for maximum benefits through alleviation of biotic stresses and enhancing sustainable crop production.','Plant growth promoting rhizobacteria (PGPR), Damping off disease, Plant health management','The results of this study clearly indicate that Hu3, Hu18 and Hu19 PGPR rhizobacterial isolates were found to be the most effective isolates for rhizosphere competence and plant growth promotion of cowpea seedlings and incase of damping off pathogen disease suppression, Hu3 and Hu18 rhizobacteria found to be excellent bacterial bioagents for successful management of this soil borne phytopathogen. This study has extended the range of the PGPR strains that have promising results and it can be used as biocontrol agents to alleviate plant disease stress further increasing crop productivity. ','-','Huma Nazneen, Emmadi Venu, Krishnendu Sen, Ritesh Kumar, Krishna Ray, Ashish Roy Barman, S.K. Ray, Raghunath Mandal and Subrata Dutta (2022). Efficient Native Plant Growth Promoting Rhizobacteria and their Role in Plant Growth Promotion and Management of Damping off Disease in Cowpea. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 14(4a): 148-154.'),(5814,'146','Phytochemical characterization of moringa (Moringa oleifera Lam.) using Gas Chromatography Mass Spectrometry (GC-MS)','Shubhada Tayade, G.J. Janavi, T. Arumugam, B. Rajagopal and P. Geetharani','216 Phytochemical characterization of moringa _Moringa oleifera Lam.pdf','',1,'The family Moringaceae includes the significant tropical vegetable and herb known as Moringa (Moringa oleifera Lam), which is valued for its therapeutic, dietary, industrial, agricultural, and socioeconomic properties. This genus is indigenous to India and contains 13 species that have been raised in the wild for their diverse virtues across Asia, Africa, and other parts of the world. Each part of moringa plant is a clandestine source of nutrients that are essential for human growth and development, yet this virtuous plant is not completed exploited in this area of application. Even after moringa being the cradle of many more biochemicals and nutrients, majority of studies in moringa has been done with regards to only Quercetin and Vitamin- C. Moringa also exists in many wild and undomesticated forms in India which needs to discovered. This study exploits the potential of ten moringa genotypes raised at Horticultural College & Research Institute, Tamilnadu Agricultural University, Tamil Nadu, for biochemical characterization, which was performed by employing Gas Chromatography Mass Spectrometry. The result of this investigation validates the presence of biochemical compounds in the leaves of Moringa oleifera, which are of high medicinal and therapeutic value and approve its position among the Superfoods. The biochemical compounds like Vitamin C, Quercetin, Kaemferol, Phytol, Tryptophan, Nicotinamide, Serotonin, Chlorogenic Acid, Niazimin, β- Sitosterol, IAA and Gallic Acid have been reported to prevent and alleviate may chronic conditions are found to the present in the moringa leaves, among which Vitamin C and Quercetin were found to be predominant in these genotypes, followed by Tryptophan and Kaemferol in the genotypes studied. Moringa genotypes PKM MO 48 and PKM MO 47 have been found to have significantly more biochemical compounds in them.','Moringa, superfood, GC-MS, phytochemical compounds, PKM','Ten most diverse moringa genotypes were chosen for GCMS assay to validate the rich biochemical and nutritional nature of Moringa oleifera species. The bioactive compounds viz., Vitamin C, Quercetin, Kaemferol, Phytol, Tryptophan, Nicotinamide, Serotonin, Chlorogenic Acid, Niazimin, β- Sitosterol, IAA & Gallic Acid were selected for characterizing the moringa genotypes. The GCMS Chromatogram revealed the presence of the selected twelve biochemical compounds in genotypes PKM MO 48, PKM 49 and PKM MO 46 making them wholesome source of these nutritional compounds.\r\nMoringa genotype PKM MO 48 graphically covered larger area in terms of all biochemical compounds followed by moringa genotype PKM MO 47 and PKM MO 46. The Chromatogram showed the presence of all the biochemical compounds in variety PKM 1, PKM 2, ROHIT and genotype PKM MO 65 making them wholesome source of these nutritional compounds. Moringa includes more than 20,000 chemical compounds according to GC-MS assay done in this investigation and therefore study of those compounds is highly encouraged to bring a medical revolution which is aided by moringa species also, safer and natural plant based medicines can be derived from it.\r\n','-','Shubhada Tayade, G.J. Janavi, T. Arumugam, B. Rajagopal and P. Geetharani (2022). Phytochemical characterization of moringa (Moringa oleifera Lam.) using Gas Chromatography Mass Spectrometry (GC-MS). Biological Forum – An International Journal, 14(4): 1209-1220.'),(5815,'146','Effect of different Irrigation Schedules and varieties on Growth and Yield of Wheat under High Altitude and Tribal Area Zone conditions of Andhra Pradesh','P.V.S. Ramunaidu, D. Sekhar, K. Anny Mrudhula and D. Srinivas','217 Effect of different Irrigation Schedules and varieties on Growth and Yield of Wheat under High Altitude and Tribal Area Zone conditions of Andhra Pradesh P.V.S. Ramunaidu.pdf','',1,'The field experiment was conducted during the rabi season of 2021-2022 at the Regional Agricultural Research Station, Chintapalle, Visakhaptnam, ANGRAU, Andhra Pradesh to study the effect of different irrigation schedules and varieties on growth and yield of wheat under high altitude and tribal area zone conditions of Andhra Pradesh. The experiment was laid out in split-plot design with the three irrigation schedules i.e., irrigation at CRI, maximum tillering, jointing, flowering and milking stages (M1), irrigation at CRI, flowering and milking stages (M2) and irrigation at CRI and milking stages (M3) as main plots and four varieties i.e., DBW-252(V1), HI-1544 (V2), HI-8759 (V3) and HI-8713 (V4) as subplots. Plant height, number of tillers m-2, dry matter production (kg ha-1) and CGR (g m-2 day-1) values were found superior with five irrigations scheduled at CRI, maximum tillering, jointing, flowering and milking stages and among the varieties HI-8759 recorded the maximum values which were on a par with HI-8713. Higher grain and straw yields were recorded under five irrigations schedule. Despite of lower grain yield observed with two irrigations but straw yield was remained statistically on a par with three irrigations. The harvest index (%) was significantly highest with five irrigations and lowest with two irrigations. However, among the varieties HI-8759 recorded significantly higher grain and straw yield. Straw yield was remained at par with HI-8713. Harvest index of HI-8759 was significantly superior over all the varieties. Lowest grain and straw yields were recorded with HI-1544. The challenges of the study is to find out the best variety among the tested for a suitable irrigation schedule and for the first time durum wheat varieties were tested in High Altitude and Tribal Area zone conditions of Andhra Pradesh.','Irrigation schedules, CRI, maximum tillering, jointing, flowering, milking, varieties and harvest index.','From the results of the present experiment conducted on rabi on wheat, the following broad conclusions can be drawn that the five irrigation schedules at different phenological stages significantly improved growth and yield of wheat. While, significantly lower growth and yield were observed in two irrigation schedules. Among the varieties, the variety HI-8759 registered the highest growth attributes and yield which was on a par with HI-8713 in all the growth parameters and also in straw yield.','-','P.V.S. Ramunaidu, D. Sekhar, K. Anny Mrudhula and D. Srinivas (2022). Effect of different Irrigation Schedules and varieties on Growth and Yield of Wheat under High Altitude and Tribal Area Zone conditions of Andhra Pradesh. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 14(4): 1221-1227.'),(5816,'146','Profile characteristics of Users and Non- users of Kalgudi Digital Platform in Mulkanoor FPO','Palakurthy Sandeep, K. Madhu Babu and Srikanth R.','218 Profile characteristics of Users and Non- users of Kalgudi Digital Platform in Mulkanoor FPO Palakurthy Sandeep.pdf','',1,'In recent years, use of digital technologies, more so platforms, have contributed immensely to the strengthening FPOs and helped them solve diverse challenges in relation to market linkages, access to financial services The present study was conducted during 2021-22 in Mulkanoor farmers producer organisation in Mulkanoor village of Bheemadevarapally mandal, Hanumakonda district, Telangana state. This FPO was selected purposively as it adopted Kalgudi digital platform for FPO management, dissemination of information and community interaction. For studying the effectiveness of digital platform in mulkanoor farmer producer organization even the profile characteristics of the users and non-users of kalgudi digital platform in mulkanoor farmer producer organization were studied. Users and Non-users from four villages of two mandals was selected. From each villages26 users and 26 non-users were selected making a total of 56 respondents from each village. Users are those who are the members of mulkanoor farmer producer organization and using kalgudi digital platforms and non-users are those who are the members of mulkanoor farmer producer organization and using other digital platform for their agricultural activities. Hence, a total of 208 farmers were selected as primary respondents and data was collected from them with the help of well-structured interview schedule though personal interview method. Most of users (75.96 %) and non-users (63.46 %) belonged to Middle age category, most of the users having secondary school level of education (30.77 %) whereas non-users were senior secondary school level of education (26.92 %). Nearly one- third of users (31.73 %) were marginal farmers and non-users (35.58%) were small farmers. Higher proportion of users (75.96 %) and non-users (71.15%) had 5-10 years of farming experience. More than two-third of users (69.23 %) and non-users (62.50 %) had membership in one social organization. One-third of the users (35.57%) had attended more than two training programmes whereas one-third of non-users (34.61%) had not attended training programmes. Half of the users (51.92 %) had high level of mass media exposure whereas more than one-third of non-users (41.34 %) had high level of mass media exposure. Nearly half of the users (45.19 %) had high level of innovativeness and non-users (39.62 %) had medium level of innovativeness. Most of the users (46.15 %) had high level of utilization of digital platform and most of the non-users (38.46 %) had low- level utilization of digital platform. Higher percentage of users (46.15 %) and non-users (52.88 %) had medium level of information management behaviour. ','Agri-business, digital platform, Mulkanoor farmer producer organization, profile','Digital technologies provide tailor made agricultural adviced to farmers according to their individual needs in different ways. Digital technologies reduced information barriers as accessed by all the users of kalgudi digital platform, provided access to new input markets by high extent of utilization of platforms by users, transparent information on market prices made available to every farmer, improved farmer’s bargaining power and provide improved access to personalized information, new technologies which ultimately increase the levels of commercialization. By employing these techniques, farmer’s cropping pattern changed which in turn increased input intensity, crop yield, sales volume and farmer’s income.','-','Palakurthy Sandeep, K. Madhu Babu and Srikanth R. (2022). Profile characteristics of Users and Non- users of Kalgudi Digital Platform in Mulkanoor FPO. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 14(4): 1228-1231.'),(5817,'146','Studies on different Stages of Maturity on Post Harvest quality of Mango (Mangifera indica L.) Cv. Chinnarasam and Navaneetham','S. Venkatesh, A. Kiran Kumar, A. Bhagwan and S. Narender Reddy','219 Studies on different Stages of Maturity on Post Harvest quality of Mango _Mangifera indica L._ Cv. Chinnarasam and Navaneetham S. Venkatesh.pdf','',1,'The reduction in post-harvest losses, suitable harvesting stage of fruit (maturity) and optimum ripening conditions to have the best quality and longer shelf life has not been recognized in developing countries. This study was conducted to find the optimum stages of maturity and ripening conditions that ensure better quality for fresh consumption and long distance marketing. An experiment was carried out to investigate the studies on different stages of maturity (7-9oB TSS stage, and 9-11oB TSS stage) on ripening and post harvest quality of mango cv. Chinnarasam and Navaneetham. Fruits harvested at different stages of maturity (7-9oB TSS stage, and 9-11oB TSS stage) were assessed for physicochemical parameters such as physiological loss in weight (%), firmness(kg cm-2), colour score for peel and juice, days taken to ripening, peel to pulp ratio, spoilage (%), and shelf life(days) and observations were recorded at an interval of 3 days at ambient temperature. Ethrel treated fruits showed early and uniform ripening thereby enhancing the quality. Mango fruits harvested at 9-11°B TSS stage recorded better physio-chemical parameters and organoleptic score with good flavor, texture and overall acceptability. From the experiment it was concluded that the mango fruits cv Chinnarasam and Navaneetham harvested at 9-11oB TSS stage were significant and superior in post-harvest quality.','Post harvest quality, mango and shelf life','The results of the experiment were briefly summarized and concluded below. In Chinnarasam and Navaneetham fruits harvested at maturity stage 9-11°B recorded significantly better-quality parameters when compared to maturity stage 7-9°B, However, the shelf life was less in maturity stage 9-11°B. Among the two maturity stages maturity stage 2 (TSS 9-11°) have more Physiological loss in weight when compared to maturity stage 1 (TSS 7-9°). Among the fruits harvested at different two maturity stages maturity stage 2 (TSS 9-11°) have less Fruit firmness when compared to maturity stage 1 (TSS 7-90). The spoilage loss was significantly high in fruits harvested at 9-11°B TSS stage of maturity due to high susceptibility to fruit rots. Mango fruits harvested at 7-9°B TSS recorded higher shelf life followed by 9-11°B TSS stage. Mango fruits harvested at 9-11oB TSS stage showed significantly higher TSS than 7-9°B TSS. Mangoes at 7-9°B indicated highest acidity than 9-11oB TSS. Mangoes at 9-11°B maturity showed lowest vitamin ‘C’ than 7-9°B maturity. Mangoes harvested at 7-9°B showed significantly low reducing sugars than harvested at 9-11°B maturity. Mango fruits harvested at 9-11°B TSS stage showed significantly higher total sugars compared to 7-9 0B TSS. Mangoes harvested at 9-11°B showed significantly high Brix/Acid Ratio as compared to7-9°B TSS.','-','S. Venkatesh, A. Kiran Kumar, A. Bhagwan and S. Narender Reddy (2022). Studies on different Stages of Maturity on Post Harvest quality of Mango (Mangifera indica L.) Cv. Chinnarasam and Navaneetham. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 14(4): 1232-1240.'),(5818,'146','Application of Biochar on Land for Improving Soil Health–A Review','R. Elangovan, S.R. Shri Rangasami, R. Murugaragavan and N. Chandra Sekaran','220 Application of Biochar on Land for Improving Soil Health–A Review 3689-R. Elangovan.pdf','',1,'The use of biochars can improve agricultural production because they can store applied nutrients and fertilizer and release them gradually to crop plants. As a result of biochar\'s capacity to prevent nutrients from evaporating from the crop root zone and to hold onto water and nutrients for an extended length of time, crop yields may increase and fertilizer needs may decrease. In contrast to composts, which are frequently added to soils for agricultural production, biochars are a source of nutrients indirectly through the subsequent decomposition of organic matter. Applying biochar to the soil has the following benefits, it sequesters carbon in the soil, boosts soil productivity especially on poor soils, enhances water retention, boosts water quality, lowers greenhouse gas emissions from the soil, stimulates microbial activity, and can be used as a biofuel and renewable energy source. The major use of biochar application in soil is to improve the soil health and fertility and in addition to mitigate climate change especially sequestering carbon. The utility of the biochar from various waste is a promising way of recycling and it could improve the health of the degraded soils, poor soils and barren lands.','Biochar, microbial activity, broadcasting, traditional banding, soil amendments','It is well recognized that biochar can enhance the physical and chemical characteristics of soil, enhancing its fertility and productivity. Other advantages of adding biochar to soils include lowering methane and nitrous oxide emissions, nutrient leaching into groundwater, and soil contaminant levels, among others. Agriculture benefits from biochars\' are capacity to hold onto water and nutrients in the surface soil strata for extended periods of time because it prevents nutrients from evaporating from the crop root zone, potentially increases crop yields, and lowers the need for fertilizer. Improved soil quality, a decrease in nitrate load in soil and groundwater, a rise in humification, the ability to retain nutrients and water, and tolerance to drought conditions are further advantages of applying biochar to soil. In future the biochar should be utilized as soil amendment (broad casting, traditional banding, mixed in soil, mixed with liquid fertilizers and target application in precision farming) for improving the soil health and combating the burgeoning climate market.','-','R. Elangovan, S.R. Shri Rangasami, R. Murugaragavan and N. Chandra Sekaran (2022). Application of Biochar on Land for Improving Soil Health–A Review. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 14(4): 1241-1244'),(5819,'146','A Review of Physiological and Biochemical Aspects of drought Tolerance in Rice','Sandeep Kumar Singh, Deepti Srivastava, Sujit KumarYadav, Faria Fatima and Kawaljeet Kaur','221 A Review of Physiological and Biochemical Aspects of drought Tolerance in Rice Kawaljeet Kaur.pdf','',1,'Rice (Oryza sativa L.) is a major food crop which is widely consumed throughout the world, it consumes alarge amount of water during its life cycle. Regarding global climate change, it is turning into a more significant concern. One of the most severe restrictions in rice production is drought situation. In this situation rice is impeded in a number of ways, including decreased germination, plant height, biomass, tiller count, and another leaf and root traits, reduced photosynthesis, transpiration, stomatal conductance, water use efficiency, relative water content, chlorophyll content, photosystem II activity, membrane stability, carbon isotope discrimination, and abscisic acid content, as well as biochemical (accumulation of osmoprotectants like proline, sugars, polyamines, and antioxidants) and molecular (altered expression of genes encoding transcription factors and defence related proteins) levels, due to drought stress condition. Rice production is severely limited by drought stress, which causes significant monetary losses. It has become imperative to improve crop productivity on the drought-prone rainfed areas with a priority in light of the current and projected world food demand. The extensive aspect of breeding for drought-tolerant rice varieties makes it a challenging endeavour, and multigenic manipulation of drought-tolerant features would be a significant bottleneck for the ongoing study. There is a need for rice varieties with drought resistance and genetic advancement for rainfed areas in order to fulfil the production target and future research should prioritise topics that are drought tolerant. We focused on the most recent developments in rice\'s physiological, biochemical, and molecular adaptation to drought tolerance in this review. The future crop improvement programme for the production of drought-tolerant rice varieties will be the topic of a brief discussion on the molecular genetics and breeding methodologies for rice drought tolerance.\r\nIn this review, we specifically focused on the most recent developments in rice\'s physiological, biochemical, and molecular adaptation to drought tolerance. For the purposes of the upcoming crop improvement programme for the creation of drought-tolerant rice varieties, a brief discussion on the molecular genetics and breeding methods for drought tolerance in rice will be made.\r\n','Drought stress; yield attribute; morphological characteristic; physiological characteristic; biochemical characteristic','Drought stress affects the growth, dry mater, yield and its associated traits in rice plant but the morphological traits viz., deep root system, cuticular wax, stomatal activity, leaf rolling character, high tissue water potential, membrane stability, rapid recovering ability after water stress has been implicated in the improvement of drought tolerance cultivar. In addition to these factors, changes in photosynthetic pigments, production of biochemical are also importance to drought tolerance. Thus, these morphological and biochemical characters may be considered during the development of drought tolerance varieties. The process of developing drought tolerance in rice is challenging and calls for careful consideration of the numerous morphological, biochemical, and molecular and physiological characteristics. Understanding the correlation between drought tolerance, seed set, yield, yield components and grain quality measures should have taken for substantial influence on grain improvement. Also, it may be possible to prevent the irreversible effects of drought stress on the yield and grain quality by selecting suitable cultivar or seed priming by Glycinebetaine. The simplified information from in this review will make it easier to do follow-up research to better understand the physiological and biochemical mechanisms of drought tolerance in rice and develop to new that are drought resistant and high-yielding.','-','Sandeep Kumar Singh, Deepti Srivastava, Sujit Kumar Yadav, Faria Fatima and Kawaljeet Kaur (2022). A Review of Physiological and Biochemical Aspects of drought Tolerance in Rice. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 14(4): 1245-1253.'),(5820,'147','Effects of Pretreatments and Drying Methods on Drying Kinetics and Physical properties of Raisins','Foshanji Ahmad Shafiq, Krishna, H.C., Sadanand K. Mushrif, Ramegowda, G.K., Bhuvaneswari S., Shankarappa T.H. and Sahel Nasir Ahmad','27 Effects of Pretreatments and Drying Methods on Drying Kinetics and Physical properties of Raisins Sadanand K. Mushrif.pdf','',1,'Drying is a process to convert grape berries into raisins. The waxy cuticle on the surface of grapes acts as a barrier against moisture evaporation during the drying process. Therefore, an effective pretreatment and drying method is necessary to remove the waxy layer to accelerate the drying rate. A study was conducted to standardize the effect of pretreatments viz., K2CO3 with ethyl oleate and olive oil, hot water treatment and no dipping along with three drying methods viz., cabinet tray dryer, solar tunnel dryer and open sun drying on drying time, instrumental color value (L*, a*,b*) and texture (N) of raisins. Grapes berries (var. Thompson seedless) pretreated with ethyl oleate 1.5% + K2CO3 3% and dried in cabinet tray dryer took lesser (26.08h) drying time and appeared lighter (47.04 L*), bright green (4.03 a*), intense yellow (27.98 b*) and were soft (4.91 N). Sun dried raisins without pretreatment took maximum (169h) drying time, more dark (25.87 L*), and observed to be stiff (6.44 N). The findings emphasize the pretreatment and drying method in minimizing the drying time with desirable color, nutritional qualities, organoleptic attributes. Therefore, the production of raisins using the above said treatment and drying method will have scope from both the industrial and health points of view, because of the remarkable reduction in the processing time and drying time.','Raisin, Drying methods, Drying time, Pretreatment, Color, Texture','The combination of pretreatments and drying methods are critical factors for production of good quality raisins. The raisin produced from the combination of a pretreatment i.e. potassium carbonate and ethyl olate and drying methods viz., cabinet tray dryer and solar tunnel dryer accelerated the drying rate, had appealing colour and soft texture in short period of time saving energy and manpower, acceptable sensory attributes and better marketability.','-','Foshanji Ahmad Shafiq, Krishna, H.C., Sadanand K. Mushrif, Ramegowda, G.K., Bhuvaneswari S., Shankarappa T.H. and Sahel Nasir Ahmad (2022). Effects of Pretreatments and Drying Methods on Drying Kinetics and Physical properties of Raisins. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 14(4a): 155-160.'),(5821,'147','Inbreeding Depression Study in F2 and F3 Segregating Generations of Bread Wheat (Triticum aestivm L.)','Aditi R. Rajane, N.R. Potdukhe, S.V. Sai Prasad, S.J. Gahukar, B.D. Gite and Pallavi R. Sasane','28 Inbreeding Depression Study in F2 and F3 Segregating Generations of Bread Wheat _Triticum aestivm L._ Aditi R. Rajane.pdf','',1,'In order to study inbreeding depression for yield and some of its associated characters in bread wheat (Triticum aestivum L.), the present experiment was carried out performing diallel analysis following Griffing (1956) Approach. Twelve genetically diverse parents were selected and crossed in diallel fashion including reciprocals. These parents were evaluated along with their 132 F2’s and 132 F3’s in a Randomized Block Design (RBD) with 3 replications at the Wheat Research Unit, Dr. PDKV, Akola during Rabi 2019-20. Although not for all the characters, the direct cross AKAW-4627 × AKAW-4210-6 and reciprocal cross WB-2 × AKAW-4210-6 were found to have maximum negative significant inbreeding depression for the grain yield. The study reveals good scope for commercial exploitation among the progenies for improvement of yield levels in bread wheat in segregating generations.','Inbreeding Depression, Bread Wheat, Diallel Analysis, Griffings Approach, RBD','The population buffering benefit, which can happen in further generations due to gene segregation or occasionally because of the production of superior gene combinations, may lead to the negative inbreeding depression. Such a circumstance is advantageous in conventional breeding programmes. As an overview of all the results it is evident that, among 132 crosses, the direct cross AKAW-4627 × AKAW-4210-6 and reciprocal cross WB-2 × AKAW-4210-6 have maximum negative significant inbreeding depression for the grain yield which is more desirable. The direct cross AKAW-4627 × MACS-6222 and reciprocal cross K-307 × AKAW-5017 were seen to have negative desirable ID for most of the yield related traits but not grain yield. All the above crosses can be used in the wheat breeding programme based on the breeder’s preference. ','-','Aditi R. Rajane, N.R. Potdukhe, S.V. Sai Prasad, S.J. Gahukar, B.D. Gite and Pallavi R. Sasane (2022). Inbreeding Depression Study in F2 and F3 Segregating Generations of Bread Wheat (Triticum aestivm L.). Biological Forum – An International Journal, 14(4a): 161-164.'),(5822,'147','Effect of Organic Nutrient Management through Biomanuring on Length of Rhizomes in Turmeric','Nilima K. Darekar, A.N. Paslawar, N.D. Parlawar, V.S. Kale, S.D. Jadhao and Y.V. Ingale','29 Effect of Organic Nutrient Management through Biomanuring on Length of Rhizomes in Turmeric Nilima K. Darekar.pdf','',1,'A field experiment conducted on “Effect of nutrient management through bio-manuring on rhizome length of turmeric” was conducted at Certified Organic Farm, Centre of Organic Agriculture Research and Training (COART), Department of Agronomy, Dr. Panjabrao Deshmukh Krishi Vidyapeeth, Akola during 2020-21 and 2021-22. The length of rhizomes influenced the yield of turmeric so the application of biomanuring helpful for getting the maximum yield. The experimental results revealed that, application of 100% N through integration of organic manures as 50% Vermicompost + 50% Neemcake + Biofertilizers registered significantly the highest length (cm) of mother rhizome, primary rhizome and secondary rhizome than other treatments of nutrient management through bio-manuring in both year of experiment. ','Length of rhizome, biomanuring, turmeric','From the results it is clear that the turmeric with application of 50% Vermicompost + 50% Neemcake + Biofertilizers found to be superior in in recording length of rhizomes than other organic sources. Also, the treatment with application of 50% Vermicompost + 50% FYM + Biofertilizers and 100% Vermicompost found beneficial than other organic sources. Hence, the combined application of manures is most beneficial to organic turmeric growers.','-','Nilima K. Darekar, A.N. Paslawar, N.D. Parlawar, V.S. Kale, S.D. Jadhao and Y.V. Ingale (2022). Effect of Organic Nutrient Management through Biomanuring on Length of Rhizomes in Turmeric. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 14(4a): 165-167.'),(5823,'147','Bioefficacy of Botanical extracts against Blackgram Borer Pests and Safety to their Natural Enemies','C. Praveenkumar and M. Kandibane','30 Bioefficacy of Botanical extracts against Blackgram Borer Pests and Safety to their Natural Enemies C. Praveenkumar.pdf','',1,'The present study was aimed to study the bioefficacy of botanical extracts against the pod borers, spotted pod borer, M. vitrata and pea blue butterfly, L. boeticus in blackgram. The field experiments I and II were carried out at Kunnathur, Tirupur district of Tamil Nadu, India and at the Eastern farm of PAJANCOA and RI, Karaikal, India, respectively, during the period from September 2020 to May 2021. Considering the significance of eco-friendly pest management, the objective of this study was to test some natural and commercial botanical insecticides against the pests of blackgram. The experimental results revealed that chlorantraniliprole 18.5 SC at 100 ml/ ha reduced the infestation of spotted pod borer (7.53 and 8.35 %) and pea blue butterfly (8.03 and 8.07 %) with the reduction over control of 59.31 and 55.38 % and 56.77 and 57.98 %, respectively. Among the botanicals, garlic and chilli extract 5% reduced the infestation of spotted pod borer (8.34 and 9.67 %) and pea blue butterfly (8.67 and 9.24 %) with the reduction over control of 54.96 and 48.36% and 53.35 and 51.89 %, respectively. The population of predatory coccinellids and spiders were high in untreated check, and on par with garlic and chilli extract 5%, followed by five leaf extract 10% and bitter apple and devil pepper leaf extract 10% in both the experiments. From these findings, it was concluded that among the botanical insecticides garlic and chilli extract 5 % was the most effective, safety to natural enemies and economic over the other treatments, may be incorporated in the pest management strategies followed against the borer pests of blackgram.','Blackgram, blackgram borer pests, botanical insecticides, bioefficacy of botanical extracts, pests of blackgram, spotted pod borer in blackgram, pea blue butterfly management','It was concluded that chlorantraniliprole 18.5 SC at 100 ml/ ha was found effective to borer pests of blackgram and among botanical treatments, garlic and chilli extract at 5 per cent was found to be effective in reducing the damage of spotted pod borer and pea blue butterfly. Botanical extracts did not have any negative impact on the population of predatory coccinellids and spiders after spraying.','-','C. Praveenkumar and M. Kandibane (2022). Bioefficacy of Botanical extracts against Blackgram Borer Pests and Safety to their Natural Enemies. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 14(4a): 168-173.'),(5824,'147','Effect of different Doses and Timings of Fertigation on Vegetative Growth of High Density Apple Cultivars Mitch Gala and Red Chief Camspur','Insha Majid, A.H. Pandit, M.A. Mir, Fouzea Nisar, Azra Lateef, Shabnam Ahad, Shaila Din, J.A. Wani and B.A. Padder','31 Effect of different Doses and Timings of Fertigation on Vegetative Growth of High Density Apple Cultivars Mitch Gala and Red Chief Camspur Insha Majid.pdf','',1,'The present investigation entitled ‘‘Effect of different doses and timings of fertigation on vegetative growth of high density apple cultivars Mitch Gala and Red Chief Camspur’’ was carried out on two apple varieties viz., Mitch Gala and Red Chief Camspur (4 year old) on M9T337 rootstock at a spacing of 1 × 3m (3333 plants ha-1) at the experimental field of Division of Fruit Science, SKUAST-K, Shalimar, Srinagar during the year 2020 and 2021. The said experiment was conducted to determine the optimum dose of fertilizers through fertigation as well as to study the effects of different doses and timings of NPK fertigation on vegetative growth parameters of apple under high density orcharding system. Twenty-six different treatments were given, which comprised of three different fertilizer doses (D1- 125%, D2- 100% and D3- 75% RDF through fertigation) applied at four different time intervals (7, 14, 21 and 28 days interval) replicated in a Randomized Complete Block Design (RCBD) starting from Mid-April to July. The different doses and timings of fertigation had shown significant effect on growth parameters of both the apple cultivars. A comparison of data on overall vegetative growth reveals that fertigation with 125% RDF at 7 days interval increased the plant height, plant girth, TCSA and plant spread which was statistically at par with 100% RDF at 7 days interval. Therefore, applying nutrients to apple plants with 100% RDF through fertigation at 7 days interval may be considered as the best possible levels of fertigation for improving vegetative growth characters of apple under high density orcharding system.','Apple, Mitch Gala, Red Chief Camspur, high density, fertigation, vegetative growth','This two years study shows positive effects of different doses and timings of NPK fertigation on enhancing vegetative growth characters of apple cvs. Mitch Gala and Red Chief Camspur. Fertigation with 125% RDF at 7 days interval gave the highest plant height, girth, TCSA and plant spread in both the varieties Mitch Gala and Red Chief Camspur under high density planting conditions which is statistically at par with 100% RDF through fertigation at 7 days interval and 125% RDF at 14 days interval. Thus 100% RDF through fertigation at 7 days interval can be recommended for growing apples under high density conditions of Kashmir. Further research on the use of sensors in fertigation is required in order to fully develop the scientific basis for recommending fertigation to local growers thus adding helping hand to their income.','-','Insha Majid, A.H. Pandit, M.A. Mir, Fouzea Nisar, Azra Lateef, Shabnam Ahad, Shaila Din, J.A. Wani, and B.A. Padder (2022). Effect of different Doses and Timings of Fertigation on Vegetative Growth of High Density Apple Cultivars Mitch Gala and Red Chief Camspur. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 14(4a): 174-179.'),(5825,'146','The First evident on effect of Organic and Inorganic Fertilizers on Growth and Yield of Wheat (Triticum estivum L.) in agency area of Vishakhapatnam District','P. Venkata Ramana, B.N. Sandeep Naik, N. Ramesh Naik and Ch Apparao','222 The First evident on effect of Organic and Inorganic Fertilizers on Growth and Yield of Wheat _Triticum estivum L._ in agency area of Vishakhapatnam District P. Venkata Ramana.pdf','',1,'Organic manures are traditionally used for plant nutrients. Major difficulty of organic manures is transportation and application. This study evaluated how organic manures and mineral fertilizers affect wheat grain and straw yields. Soil fertility maintenance requires a balanced application of inorganic and organic nutrient sources. Sustainable agricultural productivity might be achieved through a wise use of integrated nutrient management. Integrated use of chemical and organic fertilizer on yield and yield components of wheat is very crucial for assurance of food security. The experiment was conducted during 2018-20 to evaluate the effect of organic fertilizers and inorganic fertilizers (NPK Fertilizer) on plant height, number of tillers per plant, number of spikes per m2, number of spikes m2 and number of grains per m2, panicle weight, test weight, grain weight, straw yield and BC Ratio in wheat. The fertilizer treatments were T1: control T2: RDF (120:40:40 kg NPK ha-1); T3: 100% NPK through RDF + Bio fertilizer; T4: 75% RDF+ 25% NPK through organic sources (FYM); T5: FYM 5 t/ha + sheep manure 3 t/ha; T6: Incorporation of Kharif rice bran + 75% NPK through RDF; T7: Neem cake @ 120 kg ha-1 + Poultry manure 2 t ha-1. The maximum number of tillers (71), highest number of spikes per m2 (75.10), the maximum spike length (8.73 cm), the highest spikelet’s per spike, maximum weight of spike (5.46g), highest 1000 grain weight (56g) and highest grain yields were recorded in the T4: 75% RDF + 25% NPK through organic sources (FYM) (4.33 t/ha). The lowest yields were provided in the unfertilized control (2.36 t/ha). Combination of bio fertilizer is the best way to achieve high grain yield as well as BC Ratio. The impact of organic manures and inorganic fertilizers on productivity of Wheat was investigated in sandy clay loam soils. The wheat plant height, number of tillers, spike length, straw yield, grain yield and 1000 grain weight all were statistically different from that of control. The findings of the trial suggested that crop productivity may be improved significantly by the combined application of organic manures and inorganic fertilizers. ','Organic manures, Triticum estivum, mineral fertilizers, NPK, crop productivity','Combination of bio fertilizer is the best way to achieve high grain yield as well as BC Ratio. The impact of organic manures and inorganic fertilizers on productivity of Wheat was investigated in sandy clay loam soils. The wheat plant height, number of tillers, spike length, straw yield, grain yield and 1000 grain weight all were statistically different from that of control. The findings of the trial suggested that crop productivity may be improved significantly by the combined application of organic manures and inorganic fertilizers. ','-','P. Venkata Ramana, B.N. Sandeep Naik, N. Ramesh Naik and Ch Apparao (2022). The First evident on Effect of Organic and Inorganic Fertilizers on Growth and Yield of Wheat (Triticum estivum L.) in Agency Area of Vishakhapatnam District. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 14(4): 1254-1258.'),(5826,'147','Character Association and Path Analysis of Fruit Yield and Yield Components in F2 Population of Intraspecific Hybrid derived from Muskmelon (Cucumis melo L.) and Mangalore Melon (Cucumis melo var. acidulus)','Virupakshi Hiremata, Ratnakar M. Shet, Raghavendra Gunnaiah, Prashantha A., Mahantesh Naika B.N., Dadapeer A. Peerjade, Shivanand Hongal, Sandhyarani Nishani and Ashok','32 Character Association and Path Analysis of Fruit Yield and Yield Components in F2 Population of Intraspecific Virupakshi Hiremata.pdf','',1,'The success of most crop improvement program largely depends on the understanding of relationship among characters and magnitude of this relation help to breeder to determine the selection criteria for breeding program. An investigation was carried out to assess the character association and path analysis for sixteen quantitative traits in F2 segregating generation of Haramadhu × MS-78 cross. Association studies revealed that, six out of sixteen traits exhibited highly significant positive correlation with fruit yield per vine. However, the traits average fruit weight (0.721), number of fruits per vine (0.569), fruit length (0.340), fruit width (0.272), fruit shape index (0.231) and TSS (0.142) were found to possess significant association in desirable direction with fruit yield per vine at phenotypic level. Path analysis studies revealed that average fruit weight exhibited the highest positive direct effect (0.756) on fruit yield per vine followed by number of fruits per vine (0.609), fruit shape index (0.292), fruit width (0.135), sex ratio (0.011), TSS (0.019) and seed cavity width (0.009) showed true relationship by establishing significant positive association and direct effect on fruit yield per vine. ','Melon, character association, path analysis, yield','Low fruit yield in intraspecific segregating generations derived from muskmelon and Mangalore melon is due to the interaction of many genes with environment and linkage drag, it may not be desirable for direct selection. The selection criterion in breeding to improve a crop plant\'s inherent producing capacity may be yield or some of the morphological factors that affect yield. Effective crop improvement programmes require a knowledge of the method of inheritance of the yield and yield components. Yield is dependent on various characters which are mutually related. These will in turn impair the true association existing among the components and fruit yield. A change in any one factor is likely to disturb the whole network of cause and effect. Average fruit weight showed high positive direct effect at both levels on fruit yield per vine. This trait showed positive significant correlation and had high positive direct effect on yield per vine and hence direct selection through this character would be effective.','-','Virupakshi Hiremata, Ratnakar M. Shet, Raghavendra Gunnaiah, Prashantha A., Mahantesh Naika B.N., Dadapeer A. Peerjade, Shivanand Hongal, Sandhyarani Nishani and Ashok (2022). Character Association and Path Analysis of Fruit Yield and Yield Components in F2 Population of Intraspecific Hybrid derived from Muskmelon (Cucumis melo L.) and Mangalore Melon (Cucumis melo var. acidulus). Biological Forum – An International Journal, 14(4a): 180-184.'),(5827,'147','Effect of Calcium Carbonate, pH and Time on the Adsorption and Desorption of Ni in Soils of Shikar Block of Mirzapur District of Uttar Pradesh','Ayush Bahuguna, Satish Kumar Singh, Sachin Sharma, Munesh Kumar Shukla, Nidhi Luthra, Prem Kumar Bharteey, Sarvajeet, Arvind, and Astha Pandey and Pavan Singh','33 Effect of Calcium Carbonate, pH and Time on the Adsorption and Desorption of Ni in Soils of Shikar Block of Mirzapur District of Uttar Pradesh Prem Kumar Bharteey.pdf','',1,'Nickel is considered as the essential nutrient for plants its deficiency is reared under field condition, but some reports of its deficiency is found in the Shikar block of Mirzapur district in Uttar Pradesh. So, in order understand the deficiency we need to know the factor affecting availability of Ni in the soil and for this a laboratory experiment of adsorption and desorption was done in which three factors were taken i.e. pH (2, 4, 6, 8, 10, 12), Calcium carbonate (CaCO3) (0.25, 0.5, 1.0, 1.5, 2.0g) and time (1 to 24 hours). The result indicated that as the time increased the adsorption of Ni increased in the soil and saturated around 24 hours and two kinetic models were taken pseudo second order and intra diffusion model. The model that fitted best was pseudo second order with coefficient of determination (R2= 0.944). Also different values of pH were taken and the result showed that as pH increased the adsorption increased but desorption of nickel decreased. The similar trend reported for the CaCO3, as the amount of CaCO3 increased from 0.25 to 2.0g the adsorption increased while desorption decreased. This study would help in understanding the factors that affect the adsorption and desorption of nickel in soil, especially under Ni deficient condition.','Adsorption, CaCO3, Intraparticle diffusion, pH, Pseudo second order','The study showed that the pH, CaCO3 and time has effect on the adsorption and desorption of nickel. As the pH increased or decreased in the soil system the availability of nickel is affected which is showed at different pH conditions, similarly with CaCO3 content? As the time has also influenced the adsorption of Ni as the time increased the adsorption of nickel increased with further saturation at longer interval. From this study sorption pattern of nickel can be clearly understood and the factors affecting it. This study would help us in understanding the factors that affect the nickel adsorption and how it can be used up by the plant.','-','Ayush Bahuguna, Satish Kumar Singh, Sachin Sharma, Munesh Kumar Shukla, Nidhi Luthra, Prem Kumar Bharteey, Sarvajeet, Arvind, and Astha Pandey and Pavan Singh (2022). Effect of Calcium Carbonate, pH and Time on the Adsorption and Desorption of Ni in Soils of Shikar Block of Mirzapur District of Uttar Pradesh. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 14(4a): 185-189.'),(5828,'147','Anti-quorum Sensing Activity by Cell Free Lysates of Quorum Quenching Bacteria in Chromobacterium violaceum MCC 4212','K. Sowmiya, K. Tamilvendan and Mohan Chavan','34 Anti-quorum Sensing Activity by Cell Free Lysates of Quorum Quenching Bacteria in Chromobacterium violaceum MCC 4212 K.pdf','',1,'The pathogenicity of bacterial phytopathogens solely depends on cell-to-cell communication called quorum sensing (QS) which in turn regulates the genes responsible for virulence factors, phytotoxin production, biofilm formation and motility to initiate and establish the disease in hosts. Quorum quenching will be a most suitable approach to control such virulence by interfering with QS system without hampering its growth. To confirm the antiquorum sensing activity of QQ isolates, cell free lysates (10%-50%) of the isolates were tested against the growth and violacein production of Chromobacterium violaceum MCC 4212. Concentration dependant violacein inhibition was observed with all QQ isolates without any significant reduction in growth. The highest inhibiton percent of 97% shown by three of the isolates (HSL 31, HSL 32 and HSL 64) at 50% concentration. The results suggest the potential of QQ bacteria to interfere the QS activity of pathogens that could attenuate the pathogenicity and thereby, diseases without resistance development','Quorum sensing, quorum quenching, Chromobacterium violaceum, violacein inhibition, growth','All the isolates have the quorum quenching property and capable of inhibiting the quorum sensing mediated virulence without affecting the growth. Therefore, this will be further experimented for their biocontrol efficiency against bacterial phytopathogens and this will reduce the risk of resistance development in pathogens.','-','K. Sowmiya, K. Tamilvendan and Mohan Chavan (2022). Anti-quorum Sensing Activity by Cell Free Lysates of Quorum Quenching Bacteria in Chromobacterium violaceum MCC 4212. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 14(4a): 190-194.'),(5829,'147','Epidemiological Studies of Downy Mildew Disease incited by Peronospora arborsence (Berk.) de Bary in Opium Poppy under Natural conditions','Shivam Singh, R.S. Mishra, Manish Kumar Maurya and Jaish Raj Yadav','35 Epidemiological Studies of Downy Mildew Disease incited by Peronospora arborsence _Berk._ de Bary in Opium Poppy under Natural Conditions Shivam Singh.pdf','',1,'Downy mildew of opium poppy is a major threat to opium cultivation in sub-tropical zone of India. Wet and humid conditions favour to pathogen Peronospora arborescence for rapid perpetuation in opium growing season. Therefore, epidemiological study was undertaken to investigate the factors affecting to disease developments in opium poppy crop. Downy mildew disease has appeared on opium plants in 2nd week of December with the occurrence of conducive environmental condition at eastern part of Uttar Pradesh such as minimum temperature (9.25°C), maximum temperature (22.75°C), relative humidity (91.6%) and sunshine hours (4 hrs). The disease was observed as peak in the 7th meteorological weak (2nd February) with minimum temperature (9.7°C), maximum temperature (25.6°C), relative humidity (91.15%) and sunshine hours (6.8hrs) The results of observation showed that minimum temperature was positively highly significant at establishing phase, positively significant at progressive phase and negatively highly significant at decline phase of downy mildew disease in the year 2020-21 and 2021-22. Maximum temperature was found negative significant at establishing and progressive phase however it was positively highly significant at decline phase in both the years. The minimum relative humidity was showed linear relationship at establishing and progressive phase of disease. Whereas maximum relative humidity was found positively highly significant in 2020-21 and positive significant in 2021-22 at establishing phase in case of phase (B) positive significant in 2020-21 and positively highly significant in 2021-22 in case of decline phase negatively highly significant in both year. However sunshine hour were showed negative relationship in phase (A) and (B) both year and positive relationship in phase (C) which indicating that if sunshine hours are increasing then disease incidence will be reduced. ','Downy mildew, Epidemiology, Per cent disease incidence, Temperature, Humidity and Sunshine','It is concluded that percent disease incidence of downy mildew of opium poppy was recorded highest when mean atmospheric temperature was 5.0-27.2°C, relative humidity 45-93.1% with sunshine hours 2.8 hrs. ','-','Shivam Singh, R.S. Mishra, Manish Kumar Maurya and Jaish Raj Yadav (2022). Epidemiological Studies of Downy Mildew Disease incited by Peronospora arborsence (Berk.) de Bary in Opium Poppy under Natural conditions. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 14(4a): 195-198.'),(5830,'146','Performance of Greengram Genotypes for Morpho-physiological and yield Traits','Laxmi Swetha B., N. Jyothi Lakshmi, Ch. Aruna Kumari, Salini K. and T. Ramesh','223 Performance of Greengram Genotypes for Morpho-physiological and yield Traits Laxmi Swetha B.pdf','',1,'A field experiment with five genotypes of green gram (Vigna radiata (L.) R. Wilczek) was conducted during rabi 2021 for understanding their variation in morphological, phenological, physiological, biomass and yield parameters prior to moisture stress experiments. Plant height was highest in genotype MGG-351(52 cm) followed by MGG-385 (48cm). Days to 50% flowering (40 days) and days to maturity (73 days) were highest in genotype MGG-385 compared with other genotypes. Genotypes WGG-42 and MGG-385 recorded higher photosynthetic rate of 27.25 and 27.03 µmol CO2 m-2s-1. The water-holding capacity of excised leaves among the genotypes ranged between 71.1% to 73.0%. A significant genotypic variation was observed for total biomass, seed yield, pod number, pod weight, clusters/plant, pods/cluster, pods/plant, seeds/pod and hundred seed weight. Genotypes MGG-385 (11.90 g/pl) and MGG-351(11.8 g/pl) produced significantly higher seed yield than WGG-37(10.6 g/pl), WGG-42 (10.4 g/pl) and MGG-295 (9.7 g/pl). ','Greengram, chlorophyll, photosynthesis, ELWRC, yield','It can be concluded that morpho-physiological and yield traits like higher total chlorophyll content, photosynthetic rate, water use efficiency, pod weight, harvest index and more days to maturity (73 days) to be major contributing factors for higher yield performance in genotype MGG-385. Genotype MGG-295 had higher vegetative biomass and lower harvest index. Genotype WGG-42 with less crop duration of 63.5 days has highest number of seeds per pod, hundred seed weight, harvest index and ELWRC. Increased yields in the recently released varieties (MGG-385, WGG-42) is largely attributable to improved partitioning of biomass to grain i.e. higher harvest index and physiological superiority.','-','Laxmi Swetha B., N. Jyothi Lakshmi, Ch. Aruna Kumari, Salini K. and T. Ramesh (2022). Performance of Greengram Genotypes for Morpho-physiological and yield Traits. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 14(4): 1259-1262.'),(5831,'146','Phenotyping of Rice varieties for Brown Plant Hopper and White backed plant Hopper Resistance in Net house','P.C. Rath, J. Meher, L.K. Bose, S.K. Dash, Sutapa Sarkar and H.N. Subudhi','224 Phenotyping of Rice varieties for Brown Plant Hopper and White backed plant Hopper Resistance in Net house H.N. Subudhi.pdf','',1,'Plant hoppers (BPH and WBPH) are very important pest of rice causing significant yield losses (30%) in Asian countries. Identification and Cultivation of resistant varieties is better and environmentally friendly approach. So one hundred three released rice varieties developed at National Rice Research Institute, Cuttack were evaluated for Brown Plant Hopper (BPH) and White Backed plant Hopper (WBPH) in net house of NRRI, Cuttack during Kharif 2019. TN-1 and PTB 33 are used as susceptible and resistant check in this experiment respectively. Two varieties namely Lunasampad and Gayatri showed moderately resistant reaction with SES Score 3 to BPH. Six varieties such as CRDhan 204, Tapaswini, Kalyani-2, Pradhandhan, Gayatri and Kshira showed moderately resistant reaction with SES Score 3 to WBPH. The variety Gayatri showed moderate resistant to BPH and WBPH. None of the variety are resistant to BPH and WBPH. These varieties can be popularised in hopper endemic areas and can be utilised in varietal development programme.','Evaluation, rice varieties, BPH, WBPH','The varieties viz., Lunasampad and Gayatri can be popularised in BPH endemic areas and utilised in varietal development programme. Similarly the varieties such as CRDhan 204, Tapaswini, Kalyani-2, Pradhandhan, Gayatri and Kshira can be grown in WBPH endemic areas and used as donors in hybridisation programme. ','-','P.C. Rath, J. Meher, L.K. Bose, S.K. Dash, Sutapa Sarkar and H.N. Subudhi (2022). Phenotyping of Rice varieties for Brown Plant Hopper and White backed plant Hopper Resistance in Net house. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 14(4): 1263-1266.'),(5832,'146','Performance of Medium duration Potato Hybrids and varieties for Morphology, Growth and Yield Characters under Chambal Region of Madhya Pradesh','Hirdesh Kumar, Murlidhar J. Sadawarti, Rashmi Bajpai, S.P. Singh, R.K. Samadhiya, Rajesh Lekhi, Priyanka Gurjar, Prince Mahore and Payal Patidar','225 Performance of Medium duration Potato Hybrids and varieties for Morphology, Growth and Yield Characters under Chambal Region of Madhya Pradesh Hirdesh Kumar.pdf','',1,'A field experiment was conducted during the Rabi seasons of 2019–20 and 2020–21 at CPRI RS Gwalior (Madhya Pradesh) to study the morphological, growth, and yield characteristics of twenty-one (11 hybrids and 10 controls) Columba, MCIP/12-185, MS/12-2116, MS/10-1529, PS/06-88, P-12, MS/8-1148, PS/6-39, P-28, MS/9-2196, J/7-37, and 10 control varieties K. Bahar, K. Khyati, K. Lalima, K. Pukhraj, K. Pushakr, K. Lalit, K. Garima, K. Mohan, K. Ganga, and K. Neelkanth potato hybrids and varieties in RBD with three replications. The objective of this work was to evaluate tuber yield at medium maturity. Keeping this view in mind, the present study set out to select suitable and improved varieties of potato having superior growth and yield characteristics and better economic variability for commercial production in the Chambal region. Results revealed that the control K. lalima recorded the lowest (5.50 days) to emergence, while the highest (8.33 days) to emergence were recorded in the hybrid P-28. Final emergence among hybrids and varieties differed significantly and ranged from 91–93%. The highest stem or plant was recorded in K. Pushkar (8 stem), and the lowest stem was recorded in hybrid PS/6-39 (4.27). Maximum compound leaves/plant was recorded in control K. Pushkar (79.17), and minimum compound leaves/plant were observed in hybrid MS/8-1148 (49.72). Control Kufri Neelkanth produced the maximum (30.17 cm) leaf length, while Control K. Khyati (17.47 cm) recorded the maximum leaf width. Plant height was greatest in hybrid MS/12-2116 (75.85 cm) and lowest in hybrid Columba. The hybrids MS/12-2116, PS/06-88, and control K. Lalima (5.0) (scale 1–5) recorded the highest plant vigour, while hybrid MS/10-1529 (4.33) recorded the lowest plant vigour. The hybrid P-12 (10.75 mm) obtained the maximum diameter of the stem, while the minimum was recorded in the hybrid Columba (5.94 mm). Control K. Khyati and control K. Lalima showed maximum canopy cover (1466.67 cm2), and minimum canopy cover was recorded in control variety K. Ganga and hybrid Columba (1341.67 cm2). The hybrid P-12 recorded the minimum days (98.50 to 70% maturity), while the hybrid K. Neelkanth (104.17) recorded the maximum days. At 75 days, the maximum total and marketable tuber yield with the highest net return and B:C ratio was obtained in Hybrid MC/12-2116 (Rs. 155355 and 1.95 ) and in control K. Neelkanth (Rs. 166485 and 2.08). At 90 days maximum total and marketable tuber yield with highest net return and B: C ratio was obtained in hybrid P-28 (Rs. 202253 and 2.17) and in control K. Lalit (Rs. 235039 and 2.30). At senescence, the maximum total and marketable tuber yield with the highest net return and B: C ratio was obtained in hybrid P-28 (Rs. 377278 and 2.74) and in control K. Lalima (Rs. 359467 and 2.67). Hybrid MC/12-2116, hybrid P-28, and controls K. Neelkanth, K. Lalit, and K. Lalima were found to be suitable for cultivation in the Chambal region of Madhya Pradesh. ','Potato, varieties, hybrids, growth, B: C ratio, yield and morphological character','The result of the current study revealed that potato varieties and hybrids significantly affected all the treatments, which clearly indicates hybrid MC/12-2116, control K. Neelkanth, for 75 days, hybrid P-28 and control Kufri Lalit for 90 days, and hybrid P-28 and K. Lalima at senescence were most suitable for higher yield and net income. The cultivation of these hybrids and varieties will meet the requirements of potatoes located in this region, which will bring a remunerative return to the farmers.','-','Hirdesh Kumar, Murlidhar J. Sadawarti, Rashmi Bajpai, S.P. Singh, R.K. Samadhiya, Rajesh Lekhi, Priyanka Gurjar, Prince Mahore and Payal Patidar (2022). Performance of Medium duration Potato Hybrids and varieties for Morphology, Growth and Yield Characters under Chambal Region of Madhya Pradesh. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 14(4): 1267-1273.'),(5833,'146','Constraints Affecting the Spread of Climate Resilient Technologies among the Farming Communities','K. Priyanka, K. Nagasree, Ravinder Naik V., M. Malla Reddy and K. Madhubabu','226 Constraints Affecting the Spread of Climate Resilient Technologies among the Farming Communities K. Priyanka.pdf','',1,'Climate resilient agriculture is fairly flexible if farmers are provided with right information, right tools, they can make necessary adaptations of their own. But some farmers will find it difficult because of unavailability of technology, poor soil quality, lack of irrigation, lack of funds in addition to institutional or cultural barriers. To achieve climate resilient agriculture, the collaboration of farmers, extension system and research system is prerequisite. For technology spread agricultural extension system needs various players like public, private, CBO, farmers. At each stage of dissemination, factors affecting the spread of technology varies with type of organization. Management of all these factors and understanding elements of technology pathway leads to the successful spread of technology among farmers. An attempt is made to analyse the constraints affecting spread of climate resilient technologies among the farming communities. Ex-post facto research design was adopted for the investigation. The present study was conducted during 2021-22 in Telangana state. Khammam district was selected purposively keeping in the view of more spread of climate resilient technologies in the district. Enkoor mandal was selected purposively as the spread of climate resilient technologies is observed in the mandal. Two NICRA adopted villages and two NON-NICRA villages were selected from the mandal. Thus, total of four villages were selected for the study. 30 farmers were selected at random from each village to create a sample of 60 respondents from NICRA-adopted villages and 60 respondents from non-NICRA villages for the study. Thus, total of 120 farmers were selected. Among NICRA respondents under socio-psychological constraints, resistance to change the conventional practices (61.0%), economical constraints inadequate finance (71.3%), under technological constraints lack of own resources (48.3%) lack of weather-based information (48.3%) were constraints observed. Among NON-NICRA respondents under socio-psychological constraints, resistance to change the conventional practices (70.0%) economical constraints high cost of inputs (75.0%) under technological constraints lack of awareness of people about CRTs (climate resilient technologies) (86.6%) were the constraints observed.','Climate resilient technologies, constraints, spread, farming communities','The present study revealed that the majority of the NICRA farmers are having the constraints such as inadequate finance high labour costs, the small size of the land, lack of own resources, farmers resistance to change the conventional practices, inability to take risks, less interest in climate-resilient agriculture. The major constraints faced by NON-NICRA farmers are resistance to change the conventional practices, others not adopting the technology resistance high cost of inputs, inadequate finance, high cost of investments in land or farm machinery, lack of awareness of people about CRTs, lack of information on the latest technology within time, lack of knowledge of climate resilient technologies, lack of drought or saline tolerant varieties. Most farmers were unable to implement climate resilient technologies without technical and financial support. Despite KVK\'s repeated trainings and demonstrations, farmers are hesitant to implement the technologies due to financial constraints and farmer coordination. Drought-tolerant varieties should be made available in sufficient quantities at the farmer level so that farmers can cultivate these varieties. Farmers, financial institutions, and agro-advisory service providers should all consider continuous learning and sharing of climate resilient practices, climate, and agro-advisory knowledge to be a crucial tool. This will eventually increase farmers\' ability to adapt, while also increasing their awareness of and altering their attitudes toward farming that is climate-smart. ','-','K. Priyanka, K. Nagasree, Ravinder Naik V., M. Malla Reddy and K. Madhubabu (2022). Constraints Affecting the Spread of Climate Resilient Technologies among the Farming Communities. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 14(4): 1274-1277.'),(5834,'146','Genetic Divergence Studies for Yield Component Traits in Genome-wide Association Mapping Panel of Tomato (Solanum lycopersicum L.)','Maheshkumar B. Doddamani, B. Fakrudin, M. Anjanappa, M. Prashanth, H.C. Krishna and S. Mohan Kumar','227 Genetic Divergence Studies for Yield Component Traits in Genome-wide Association Mapping Panel of Tomato _Solanum lycopersicum L._ Maheshkumar B. Doddamani.pdf','',1,'Genetic diversity is key factor for any crop improvement. Genetic diversity, its nature and its degree are useful for selecting desirable parents from a germplasm collection for development of superior hybrids and for successful breeding programme. In this study accessions of genome-wide association mapping panel of tomato were assessed for their genetic divergence using Mahalanobis D2 statistics. Genetic divergence studies revealed considerable genetic diversity among 264 accessions of tomato for a set of eleven quantitative traits pertaining to the earliness, growth and yield viz., plant height (cm), number of branches per plant, days taken to 50 % flowering, number of clusters per plant, number of fruits per cluster, number of fruits per plant, average fruit weight (g), number of locules per fruit, fruiting duration (days), fruit diameter (cm) and total yield per plant (kg). Analysed 264 tomato accessions grouped into 11 distinct clusters depending upon the similarities of their D2 values following Tocher’s method. Considerable diversity within and between 11 clusters was observed among the accessions. The characteristics such as average fruit weight, fruit diameter and number of locules per fruit were the potent factors in differentiating the accessions of tomato studied. The use of diverse genotypes from the clusters with high inter-cluster distance, such as cluster XI and VIII, XI and II and XI and VII in hybridization is expected to result in high heterosis and throw desirable transgressive segregants in the segregating generations that can form potential pre-breeding material for the improvement of tomato crop.','Genetic divergence, Yield Component Traits, Genome-wide Association Mapping Panel Tomato','Among the various methods identified/developed to study the genetic divergence in the genotypes, Mahalanobis D2 (Mahalanobis, 1936) is reliable and the most frequently used. D2 analysis is a useful tool in quantifying the degree of divergence between biological population at genotypic level and to assess relative contribution of different components to the total divergence, both at the inter and intra-cluster levels. Thus, from the present investigation it can be concluded that genotypes of cluster XI and VIII, XI and II and XI and VII are complementary for maximum traits and could be selected for hybridization to develop promising F1 hybrids or transgressive segregants in succeeding generations. To improve maximum yield per plant, clusters IX, V and II are an ideal combination for three way cross or their derivatives for future selection.','-','Maheshkumar B. Doddamani, B. Fakrudin, M. Anjanappa, M. Prashanth, H.C. Krishna and S. Mohan Kumar (2022). Genetic Divergence Studies for Yield Component Traits in Genome-wide Association Mapping Panel of Tomato (Solanum lycopersicum L.). Biological Forum – An International Journal, 14(4): 1278-1282.'),(5835,'146','Assessment of Genetic Variability based on Morphological and Biochemical Markers in Red Chilli (Capsicum annuum L.)','Sunil K. Patel, Dipak A. Patel, Nil A. Patel, Rumit Patel, Jaimin M. Vadodariya and Ujjaval N. Patel','228 Assessment of Genetic Variability based on Morphological and Biochemical Markers in Red Chilli _Capsicum annuum L._ Sunil K. Patel.pdf','',1,'Chilli (Capsicum annuum L.) with enormous industrial, therapeutic and export potential is an imperative vegetable and condiment crop of the world. The country is still lagging behind to attain the optimum productivity in dry chilli owing to the use of local unimproved cultivars. Therefore, much-concentrated efforts are necessary to improve its dry fruit yield, quality and host plant resistance against viral diseases. Hence, evaluation of the indigenous germplasm is essential because the promise for further improvement programmes. To examine the variability in red chilli, 30 chilli genotypes were evaluated for 13 morphological and six biochemical traits. Based on mean performance, the highest dry fruit yielding genotype ACS-08-09 was significantly superior to all others, followed by ACS-18-02 and ACS-18-08. The genotype Anand Tej (48.23%) followed by GP-93 (43.68%) and GAVC 112 (42.42%) exhibited higher powder recovery and thereby promising for red chilli powder. For the majority of the traits, the genotypes exhibited abundant diversity with enormous heritability (>60.20%). Fruits per plant, fruit length, dry fruit weight, dry fruit yield per plant, number of seeds per fruit, ascorbic acid content, capsaicin content, total phenol, total antioxidant activity and colour value demonstrated a high PCV than GCV, where estimates of PCV and GCV for days to 50% flowering and days to red ripe fruit maturity were found to be low. Both Genetic advance as per cent of mean and heritability were high for most of the traits except for days to red ripe fruit maturity, primary and secondary branches per plant, number of seeds per fruit and 1000 seed weight, indicating that most of the characters studied were mainly controlled by additive gene effect and thus selection may be effective.','Chilli, Variability, Phenotypic coefficient of variation, Heritability, Genetic advance.','Based on mean performance, genotypes ACS-08-09, ACS-18-02 and ACS-18-08 are promising for dry fruit yield in chilli, whereas for powder recovery, Anand Tej followed by GP-93 and GAVC 112 were found superior genotypes and could be used in future breeding programme for improving yield and powder recovery per cent in red chilli, respectively. On the basis of the studies mentioned above, it can be inferred that the number of fruits per plant, fruit length, and dry fruit weight should all be given appropriate consideration when selection is imposed for genetic enhancement of dry fruit yield in chilli. Chilli is used as both green and dry hence for improvement in chilli germplasm especially for dry fruit, selection based on characters like days to red ripe fruit maturity, powder recovery percent and colour value is a prerequisite.','-','Sunil K. Patel, Dipak A. Patel, Nil A. Patel, Rumit Patel, Jaimin M. Vadodariya and Ujjaval N. Patel (2022). Assessment of Genetic Variability based on Morphological and Biochemical Markers in Red Chilli (Capsicum annuum L.). Biological Forum – An International Journal, 14(4): 1283-1288.'),(5836,'146','Polyethylene Glycol (PEG) induced Drought Stress on Seed Germination of Rice','G.K. Nandhitha, K. Vanitha, C.N. Chandrasekhar, P. Jeyakumar, D. Sudhakar and R. Saraswathi','229 Polyethylene Glycol _PEG_ induced Drought Stress on Seed Germination of Rice G.K. Nandhitha.pdf','',1,'Water is now a scare commodity in all parts of world, projected climate changes will aggravate the situation in future. Drought is a abiotic stress that limits the production of all the crops, which affects growth, development and yield of rice. A laboratory experiment was conducted to evaluate the germination characteristics of 25 rice genotypes under two levels of osmotic stress under Completely Randomized Design (CRD) with three replications. Polyethylene glycol 6000 was used as an osmoticum. Total germination, mean germination rate, germination index, root length, shoot length, root length stress tolerance index and root shoot ratio were recorded. The results showed that with increasing of osmoticum concentration (water stress), germination and seedling morphological characters were decreased, when compared with control. The genotypes namely vedhividangan, naveen, swarnamukhi, improved kavuni, vellaichithiraikar, kayamma exhibited tolerance in the higher concentration of osmoticum. The variations among the genotypes for germination characters were observed and Root Length Stress Index (RLSI) was found to be a reliable indicator to screen the drought tolerant genotypes at germination and seedling stage in rice.','Drought, Rice, Germination, Polyethylene glycol, Screening','Rice genotypes remained highly sensitive to drought stress during seed germination. The present investigation also determined that germination and seedling growth were affected in rice genotypes by increasing the levels of water stress. In response to water stress, Vedhividangan, Naveen, Swarnamukhi, Kavuni, Vellaichithiraikar, and Kayamma exhibited tolerance to the higher concentration of -2.5 bars of PEG as compared to others. ','-','G.K. Nandhitha, K. Vanitha, C.N. Chandrasekhar, P. Jeyakumar, D. Sudhakar and R. Saraswathi (2022). Polyethylene Glycol (PEG) induced Drought Stress on Seed Germination of Rice. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 14(4): 1289-1293.'),(5837,'146','Effect of Cooking on Proximate, Phytochemical, Anti-oxidant and Enzyme Inhibitory Activity of Horse Gram (Macrotyloma uniflorum)','Senthilkumar R., Amutha S., Hemalatha G., Uma Maheshwari and Mini M.L.','230 Effect of Cooking on Proximate, Phytochemical, Anti-oxidant and Enzyme Inhibitory Activity of Horse Gram _Macrotyloma uniflorum_ Senthilkumar R.pdf','',1,'Horse gram (Macrotyloma uniflorum) is an underutilized and unexplored food legume. The horse gram is consumed mostly in the form of boiled and roasted. Even though, the horse gram is a richest source of phytochemical, the bioactive compounds are lost significantly during cooking process. The effects of cooking on proximate, anti-oxidant and enzyme inhibitory activity of horse gram were evaluated. The study was carried out to find the suitable method of cooking to be followed to reduce the nutrients loss and retain the maximum amount nutrients horse gram. During. The total phenol and flavonoid content of the cooked horse gram were in the range of 120-268.14 mg GAE/100 g and 331.82-1340.91 mg QE/100 g respectively. The lowest total phenol and flavonoid was recorded in pan boiled and pressure-cooked horse gram respectively. The DPPH and ABTS free radical scavenging activity was significantly increased during roasting of horse gram, whereas the anti-oxidant activity was significantly reduced during pan boiling and pressure-cooking method. The α-amylase inhibitory activity of cooked horse gram was in the range of 25.33-38.41 per cent whereas α-glucosidase inhibition activity was between the range of 35.67 to 47.20 per cent. The α-amylase and α-glucosidase inhibition activity were significantly decreased during cooking of horse gram. The raw horse gram had highest α-amylase and α-glucosidase inhibition activity when compared to cooked samples.','Horse gram, Pressure cooking, Boiling, Roasting, cooking','The present study reveals that the horse gram seeds possess appreciable levels of total phenols, flavonoids and tannin content. The horse gam also had functional properties such as antioxidant and enzymatic inhibition properties. The roasting and pressure cooking significantly (p≤0.05) affected the antioxidant and enzyme inhibitory activity of horse gram. Even though the processing of grain has shown the deleterious effects on the phenolic content and functional properties of grain but they still possess significant antioxidant potential and other functional properties. Hence, they can still be appreciably utilized as an important ingredient in daily diet. All the grains have shown a significant correlation between antioxidant potential and phenolic content of the grain.','-','Senthilkumar R., Amutha S., Hemalatha G., Uma Maheshwari and Mini M.L. (2022). Effect of Cooking on Proximate, Phytochemical, Anti-oxidant and Enzyme Inhibitory Activity of Horse Gram (Macrotyloma uniflorum). Biological Forum – An International Journal, 14(4): 1294-1299.'),(5838,'146','Soil Weed Seed Bank under different Cotton (Gossypium hirsutum) Management Systems','D.V.S. Akshay, N.D. Parlawar, J.P. Deshmukh and A.S. Riar','231 Soil Weed Seed Bank under different Cotton _Gossypium hirsutum_ Management Systems D.V.S. AKSHAY.pdf','',1,'Cotton is a long duration, widely spaced, and relatively slow-growing crop that faces a serious weed threat in its early growth stages. The weeds growing in a crop can be considered as merely the vehicle by which seeds in the soil produce further seeds for incorporation into the soil seed bank. Due to the complexity of characterizing the soil seed bank, it is difficult to predict the abundance of weed species and communities. One way of describing weed soil seed bank is that they are primarily an assemblage of seeds that will occasionally germinate, emerge, and grow into adult plants. A pot culture experiment was conducted in the greenhouse located at Agronomy farm, Centre of Organic Agricultural Research and Training (COART), Department of Agronomy, Dr. PDKV, Akola during kharif season of the year 2020-21, to compare the weed seed bank and weed flora in the soil under organic, bio-dynamic, conventional management systems of Bt and non-Bt cotton (Gossypium hirsutum). The present investigation was carried out in completely randomized design with the soil collected from five different crop management practices done in the field, each replicated four times. The treatments were allotted randomly to various pots. The five treatments consist of Organic management soil of cotton, Bio-dynamic management soil of cotton, Conventional management soil of non-Bt cotton, Conventional management soil of Bt cotton, Absolute Control soil (without fertilizers). Panicum dichotomiflorum, Cyperus rotundus, Paspalum dilatatum, Euphorbia hirta, Acalypha indica and Digeria ravensis were the dominant weed species observed. Poaceae was the dominant family in terms of composition. Weed flora between the treatments was found to be having very minor differences. The weed seed bank, weed species, weed count and weed dry matter were found to be statistically non-significant, but numerically highest in the Organic and Biodynamic than in the Conventional treatments.','Bio-dynamic, Bt, Conventional, Cotton, Organic, Weed','From the above findings, it can be concluded that weed flora was reported with very less difference between the treatments. Organic and Biodynamic soil was reported with higher weed seed bank, weed species diversity, weed count and weed dry matter than in the Conventional soil. The conventional management soil was found to be best as reported with very less seed bank. The Organic management soil weed seed bank was observed with high number of overall plant species and best in conserving the soil plant species biodiversity.','-','D.V.S. Akshay, N.D. Parlawar, J.P. Deshmukh and A.S. Riar (2022). Soil Weed Seed Bank under different Cotton (Gossypium hirsutum) Management Systems. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 14(4): 1300-1305'),(5839,'146','Effect of Biodynamic Package with Biofertilizer on Growth, Yield, Quality and Economics of Potato under Malwa condition of Madhya Pradesh','Priyanka Gaware, Swati Barche, Anvita Sharma, Veena Rathore and Shailendra Singh Yadav','232 Effect of Biodynamic Package with Biofertilizer on Growth, Yield, Quality and Economics of Potato under Malwa Condition of Madhya Pradesh Priyanka Gaware.pdf','',1,'A field experiment was conducted to assess the impact on growth, yield, quality and economics of potato at Research farm, College of Agriculture, Indore (M.P.) during Rabi season 2021-2022 in RBD with 3 replications. The yield, productivity and quality parameters are limiting in the potato crop, particularly in the black cotton soil. Hence, the biodynamic package with biofertilizers are attemped to enhance the production, productivity and quality parameters in potato crop. For meet up the demand, 9 treatments viz. T1: Biodynamic preparation 500 (BD-500) @ 2.5 g/litre, T2: Biodynamic preparation 500 (BD-500) @ 5.0 g/litre, T3: Biodynamic preparation 501 (BD-501) @ 2.5 g/litre, T4: Biodynamic preparation 501 (BD-501) @ 5.0 g/litre, T5: Azotobactor @ 5 ml/litre, T6: BD 500@ 2.5 g + Azotobactor @ 5 ml/litre, T7: BD 500@ 5.0 g + Azotobactor @ 5 ml/litre, T8: BD 501@ 2.5 g + Azotobactor @ 5 ml/litre, T9: BD 501 @ 5.0 g + Azotobactor @ 5 ml/litre, and T0: Control were used The results revealed that combination of azotobacter + biodynamic approach (BD-501) was the best among all the treatments for most of the growth and yield parameters under study and gave highest net return and B: C ratio. Thus, it can be concluded that the biofertlizer (Azotobacter) and biodynamic approach are an advantageous source for sustainable agriculture specially for heavy feeder crops like potato.','Biodynamic approach, Biofertilizer, Potato and Sustainable agriculture','According to the findings of the research, the combined application of BD-501 + Azotobacter may be the best approach among all treatments for increasing tuber yield and thus economic return for the farmer. Biofertilizers (Azotobacter) and biodyanamic inputs are beneficial sources of nutrients for sustainable organic agriculture in crops requiring high amounts of nutrients, such as potatoes.','-','Priyanka Gaware, Swati Barche, Anvita Sharma, Veena Rathore and Shailendra Singh Yadav (2022). Effect of Biodynamic Package with Biofertilizer on Growth, Yield, Quality and Economics of Potato under Malwa Condition of Madhya Pradesh. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 14(4): 1306-1308.'),(5840,'147','Yield and Economics of different Weed Management Practices in Summer Direct Seeded Rice (Oryza sativa L.)','Kommireddy Poojitha*, K.N. Kalyana Murthy, M.T. Sanjay and G.N. Dhanapal','36 Yield and Economics of different Weed Management Practices in Summer Direct Seeded Rice _Oryza sativa L._ Kommireddy Poojitha.pdf','',1,'Weeds are the major constraint in crop production and mostly managed by hand weeding manually. But, ever increasing labour wages has made manual weeding uneconomical in spite of the yield benefit. A field experiment was carried out during summer 2021 at Zonal Agricultural Research Station, Gandhi Krishi Vignana Kendra, University of Agricultural Sciences, Bengaluru, Karnataka to analyse the yield and economics of weed management in direct seeded rice. The experiment was laid out in randomized complete block design with twelve treatments and three replications. The treatments consisted of seven herbicides, three allelochemicals, hand weeding and unweeded check. All the treatments recorded significantly higher yield and economics when compared to unweeded control. Among all the herbicide treatments, significantly higher weed control efficiency, yield attributes and grain yield of summer direct seeded rice was recorded with bispyribac sodium 40 g ha-1 as post emergence and the same treatment has also recoded higher net returns and B:C ratio followed by bensulfuron methyl + pretilachlor 660 g ha-1 as pre emergence. Even though hand weeding at 20 and 40 DAS has recorded highest yield attributes and grain yield, the B:C was lower than bispyribac sodium40 g ha-1 as post emergence due to high cost of manual weeding. Unweeded control has recorded lowest yield attributes, yield and monitory returns.','Direct seeded rice, bispyribac sodium, bensulfuron methyl + pretilachlor, allelochemicals, economics','From this present study, it can be inferred that, under the present scenario of labour scarcity and high labour wages, application of bispyribac sodium 40 g ha-1 as post emergence or bensulfuron methyl + pretilachlor 660 gha-1 as pre emergence were reported to recoded higher weed control efficiency, yield attributes, grain yield as well monitory returns in summer direct seeded rice.','-','Kommireddy Poojitha, K.N. Kalyana Murthy, M.T. Sanjay and G.N. Dhanapal (2022). Yield and Economics of different Weed Management Practices in Summer Direct Seeded Rice (Oryza sativa L.). Biological Forum – An International Journal, 14(4a): 199-202.'),(5841,'147','Helminth Infestations in Cold Water Fishes of Kashmir Himalayas','Imtiyaz Qayoom, Feroz A. Shah, Adnan Abubakr, Inain Jaies, Shabana Arjamand, Baba Tabasum, Shabir A. Dar, Sameena Khan and Bilal A. Bhat','37 Helminth Infestations in Cold Water Fishes of Kashmir Himalayas Imtiyaz Qayoom.pdf','',1,'A total of 40,000 acres of water resources, including lakes, streams, rivers, sars, springs, etc., are available in Jammu and Kashmir, making them ideal for fish farming. Aquaculture is one of the most economically significant applied strategies and one of the healthiest and most nutritious resources for people. These resources are experiencing a number of difficulties because of improper management and utilisation policy. One of the biggest obstacles to aquaculture is disease, which could eventually limit the commercial success of fish producers. The present study was carried out to evaluate the prevalence of endoparasitic helminths in Schizothorax niger and Cyprinus carpio during different seasons. The isolated parasites comprised Pomphorhynchus kashmirensis, Bothriocephalus acheilognathi, Adenoscolex oreini and Neoechinorhycus manasbalensis. According to the results of the current investigation, parasite occurrences are higher in the Schizothorax species than in the Carp species. A gradual increase in the prevalence rate coincided with a rise in temperature. Additionally, it was discovered that males had more parasite infestation than females. The red blood cell count, packed cell volume, and haemoglobin concentration of the infected fish all indicated a decline. However, infected fish displayed higher white blood cell levels when compared to uninfected fish.','Helminth, Shizothorax, Cyprinus, Kashmir, Temperature','Fish health and output management are becoming more difficult as a result of severe parasitic infections. Infections with fish parasites are a serious problem because they typically lead to immune system degradation, which makes hosts more susceptible to subsequent infection by pathogens. In the current investigation, Anchar was shown to have a higher prevalence of parasites. Fish species, the time of year, gender, and water body all have a significant impact on hehminth infection patterns. Additionally, males had a higher prevalence of helminths than females did.','-','Imtiyaz Qayoom, Feroz A. Shah, Adnan Abubakr, Inain Jaies, Shabana Arjamand, Baba Tabasum, Shabir A. Dar, Sameena Khan and Bilal A. Bhat (2022). Helminth Infestations in Cold Water Fishes of Kashmir Himalayas. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 14(4a): 203-210.'),(5842,'147','Influence of Growth Retardants on Dwarfism in Bougainvillea (Bougainvillea spectabilis)','Tejal Patel, Dipal S. Bhatt, Jemini Patel, B.M. Tandel, Alka Singh and Sudha Patil','38 Influence of Growth Retardants on Dwarfism in Bougainvillea _Bougainvillea spectabil Tejal Patel.pdf','',1,'Bougainvillea (Bougainvillea Spectabilis) is a hardy, evergreen, shrubby vine that belongs to the Nyctanginaceae family. The architecture of the plants themselves is one of the most crucial aspects of landscaping. Bougainvillea require routine pruning by clipping shoots to lower plant height and sustain plant architecture because of their robust growth habits. To keep the plant\'s size consistent, PGR may be an alternative to frequent trimming. During the academic year 2020–21, a study was conducted at the ASPEE College of Horticulture and Forestry, NAU, Navsari, to determine how growth inhibitors affected the dwarfing and flowering of bougainvillaea (Bougainvillea spectabilis). Completely Randomized Design (CRD) was used to set up the experiment, with ten treatments using various dosages of paclobutrazol, cycocel, and daminozide. Three repetitions of the treatments were carried out. The growth retardants were applied as foliar spray at 30, 45, 60 and 75 days after planting of bougainvillea in pot. The results showed that the application of 3000 ppm daminozide followed by cycocel significantly reduced plant height, internode distance and improved plant spread in N-S and E-W direction, number of secondary branches, inflorescence length, number of bracts per inflorescence, bract length and width. While, early blossoming was noticed at 1500 ppm of cycocel, which was followed by daminozide. However, plants sprayed with 3000 ppm Daminozide received an excellent score for their visual appeal on a hedonic scale.','Bougainvillea spectabilis, cycocel, daminozide, hedonic scale, paclobutrazol','Inferences about the foliar application can be drawn from the findings of the current experiment that foliar application of 3000 ppm Daminozide at 30, 45, 60, and 75 days after planting of bougainvillea in pot can be effectively used to retard plant height and improve the quality of flowers with better plant architecture in respect to plant canopy and inflorescence.','-','Tejal Patel, Dipal S. Bhatt, Jemini Patel, B.M. Tandel, Alka Singh and Sudha Patil (2022). Influence of Growth Retardants on Dwarfism in Bougainvillea (Bougainvillea spectabilis). Biological Forum – An International Journal, 14(4a): 211-215.'),(5843,'147','Effect of different Stem Cuttings and IBA on Morphology and Rooting of Damas Plant (Conocarpus lancifolius)','Mallika Sindha, S.T. Bhatt, B.M. Tandel, H.M. Patel, K.S. Solanki and Chandana Shivaswamy','39 Effect of different Stem Cuttings and IBA on Morphology and Rooting of Damas Plant _Conocarpus lancifolius_ Mallika Sindha.pdf','',1,'Conocarpus lancifolius L. is much esteemed plant for landscape owing to its growth habit. Thus, availability of good planting material has vital importance. Plant propagation is an important practice in gardening. Looking into the importance of dam as plant the study was carried out to determine the impact of various cutting methods and IBA concentrations on its roots and survival. Two different cutting kinds (tip cutting and semi-hardwood cutting), four different IBA concentrations (300, 400, 500, and 600 mg l-1), and a control were all used in the treatment. When compared to other forms of cuttings, tip cuttings took least days for 50%sprouting (21.07 days), had the longest shoots (12.03 cm), maximum leaf area (7.93 cm2) after 60 days of planting and more leaves per cutting (5.17 and 9.60) at 30 and 60 days of planting, respectively. In contrast, IBA concentration of 500 mgl-1showed earliest sprouting (21.00 days), longest shoot (12.95 cm), largest leaf area (7.85 cm2) at 60 DAP and maximum number of leaves per cutting (5.83 and 10.10) at 30 and 60 DAP, respectively. Following a 60-day planting period, cuttings were transplanted in polybags. After three months of transplanting, tip cutting in combination with IBA at 500 mg l-1 significantly boosted height and width of plant in the North-South and East-West directions, with the highest successful plants in polybags. According to the aforementioned results, tip cutting that was submerged in a 500 mgl-1 IBA (C1I3) concentration was the best treatment.','Conocarpus lancifolius, Cutting type, Growth regulator, IBA, Vegetative propagation, Rooting','From the results of the present study, it can be concluded that tip cuttings dipped in 500 ppm IBA for 10 minutes found more effective for higher root and shoot growth with better survival as well as success of dam as plant cutting.','-','Mallika Sindha, S.T. Bhatt, B.M. Tandel, H.M. Patel, K.S. Solanki and Chandana Shivaswamy (2022). Effect of different Stem Cuttings and IBA on Morphology and Rooting of Damas Plant (Conocarpus lancifolius). Biological Forum – An International Journal, 14(4a): 216-219.'),(5844,'147','Present Status of Sunflower Pests and their Natural Enemies in North Karnataka','Vijaykumar N. Ghante, Poornima, Vikas V. Kulkarni and Umesh M.R.','40 Present Status of Sunflower Pests and their Natural Enemies in North Karnataka Vijaykumar N. Ghante.pdf','',1,'Field studies conducted during 2020-21 rabi and 2021-22 kharif season to know population fluctuation of sunflower insect pests and their natural enemies revealed that thrips and lepidopteran pests (Helicoverpa armigera, Spodoptera litura and Spilarctina oblique) were the major pests during kharif and Sucking pests (leafhopper and whiteflies) were major insect pests during rabi season. Lady bird beetles, Chrysoperla and spiders were recorded as major predators throughout season. Weather parameters played an important role on the incidence of pests as revealed by Correlation and regression studies. ','Insect pests, Natural enemies, Population dynamics, Sunflower, correlation and regression','Weather variables act as a limiting factor for the insect pest development. Pest population build up was significantly influenced by weather variables in Sunflower. Though empirical models are very useful in better understanding of pest and its dynamics, local weather conditions influence population dynamics of pest greatly and hence behave in a location-specific manner and thus they are influenced by different weather factors at different locations. Pest weather regression models would be useful in forecasting the likely pest build up, thereby helping in forewarning and timely management. Such information may be used for recommending required zone-wise management strategies.','-','Vijaykumar N. Ghante, Poornima, Vikas V. Kulkarni and Umesh M.R. (2022). Present Status of Sunflower Pests and their Natural Enemies in North Karnataka. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 14(4a): 220-224.'),(5845,'147','Estimation of heterosis in bottle gourd [Lagenaria siceraria (Mol.) Standl.]','Mohan Singh, Kapil Dev Ameta, Ram Avtar Kaushik, R.B. Dubey, Pushpendra Singh, K.S. Rajawat and Sunita Koodi','41 Estimation of heterosis in bottle gourd [Lagenaria siceraria _Mol._ Standl.] Mohan Singh.pdf','',1,'The present experiment was conducted to estimate the heterosis of 45 hybrids in bottle gourd during 2020–2021 in three environments at the open field of Hi-tech unit, Rajasthan College of Agriculture, Udaipur and Krishi Vigyan Kendra, Chittorgarh (Rajasthan). Hybrid showed highest magnitude of significant relative heterosis -4.32% (P3 × P8), heterobeltiosis -1.98% (P4 × P6 standard heterosis P4 × P6 (-5.29%) in desirable direction on pooled basis. Maximum number of branches per vine, the significant positive relative heterosis (35.20%), heterobeltiosis (34.55%) and economic heterosis (12.19%) on pooled basis was observed by the hybrid P5 × P7. Highest positive and significant relative heterosis for fruit diameter on pooled basis was observed by the hybrid P2 × P3 (17.09%), whereas hybrid P1 × P2 (15.53%) showed maximum heterobeltiosis and hybrids P7 × P10 (80.27%) exhibited significant positive economic heterosis for this trait. The hybrid P8 × P10 exhibited highest significant relative heterosis (36.07%) and heterobeltiosis (32.21%), whereas hybrids P1 × P9 expressed maximum significant economic heterosis (17.97%) for rind thickness on pooled basis. Significant positive relative heterosis (18.12%) and heterobeltiosis (17.49%) on pooled basis was observed by the hybrid P1 × P2, whereas hybrid P7 × P10 exhibited significant positive economic heterosis (86.61%) for flesh thickness on pooled basis. Maximum yield per square meter, the significant positive relative heterosis (56.83%) and heterobeltiosis (49.60%) on pooled basis were observed by the hybrid P6 × P9. The top five F1 hybrids showed highest economic heterosis for yield per square meter were P7 × P8 (39.26%), P6 × P9 (36.99%), P6 × P8 (35.66%), P4 × P10 (30.98%) and P4 × P7 (30.96%). The most difficult bottle gourd challenges are proper pollination, fertilization, and fruit development because fruit begins to grow but does not set seeds after pollination and fertilization. As a result, proper fertilization is required for good seed set.','Bottle gourd, Heterobeltiosis, Economic heterosis, Yield, Hybrids','On the basis of high economic heterosis for yield per square meter cross combination P7 × P8 (39.26%), P6 × P9 (36.99%), P6 × P8 (35.66%), P4 × P10 (30.98%) and P4 × P7 (30.96%) can be exploit for improvement in yield of bottle gourd.','-','Mohan Singh, Kapil Dev Ameta, Ram Avtar Kaushik, R.B. Dubey, Pushpendra Singh, K.S. Rajawat and Sunita Koodi (2022). Estimation of heterosis in bottle gourd [Lagenaria siceraria (Mol.) Standl.]. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 14(4a): 225-231.'),(5846,'147','Studies on Malting Characteristics of different Sorghum Genotypes and its Utilization to Prepare Traditional Fermented Product i.e., Ambil','Anerao K.K., Gadhe K.S., Gaikwad S.S., Sadaf T. and Ghatge P.U. ','42 Studies on Malting Characteristics of different Sorghum Genotypes and its Utilization to Prepare Traditional Fermented Product i.e., Ambil Anerao K.pdf','',1,'The present investigation focused on development of traditional fermented product i.e., ambil prepared from malted sorghum flour; the three different sorghum genotypes (Parbhani Moti, GP-1539, GP-2017-5) being utilized for the study. The effect of malting on anti-nutritional profile and total phenolic content for all the three genotypes was evaluated. The malted flour of Parbhani moti has higher reduction in tannin (0.06 ± 0.03) and phyate levels (2.26 ± 0.02) as compared to the raw sorghum. The total phenolic content of malted sorghum genotypes reduced upto 10 per cent as compared to raw sorghum flour \r\nThe malt flour was utilized in formulation of ambil by initially preparation of slurry followed by addition of buttermilk and spices. The ambil was further analyzed for proximate composition, total phenolic content, viscosity and organoleptically acceptance. The nutritional profile of ambil represented the highest protein in GP-1539 followed by GP-2017-5 and Parbhani moti. The total phenolic content of ambil was found higher in GP-1539 i.e., 195.21 ± 1.42 mg/100 g. The highest scores for overall acceptability of ambil was recorded for GP-1539. The demanding part of the present research work aims at enhancing the nutritional content of sorghum genotypes by application of malting treatment, and its value-addition to traditional product. The goal is to fulfil the gaps of millet processing by value-addition and hence eradicating nutritional security.\r\n','Genotypes, phenolics, anthocyanin, malting, ambil','The present investigation trials were carried out to develop Ambil from different sorghum genotypes and suitability of the cultivar was judged to finalize the best suited variety for standardization and nutritional profile of the Ambil beverage. The Genotype GP-1539 scored highest for overall acceptability followed by followed by Parbhani moti and GP-2017-5 was found to be least acceptable. The future aspects of sorghum lie in development of value-added products (popped/ puffed), malted, fermented, etc. The promising approach lies in utilizing the color sorghum genotypes rich in anti-oxidant and anthocyanin content.','-','Anerao K.K., Gadhe K.S., Gaikwad S.S., Sadaf T. and Ghatge P.U. (2022). Studies on Malting Characteristics of different Sorghum Genotypes and its Utilization to Prepare Traditional Fermented Product i.e., Ambil. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 14(4a): 232-237.'),(5847,'147','Effect of Biofertilizers on Yield and Quality Attributes of Grape cv. Muscat Hamburg','Vijayalakshmi T., C. Kavitha, K.A. Shanmugasundaram and I. Muthuvel','43 Effect of Biofertilizers on Yield and Quality Attributes of Grape cv. Muscat Hamburg C. Kavitha.pdf','',1,'An experiment was carried out at farmer’s field, to study the effect of biofertilizers on the yield and quality of grape cv. Muscat Hamburg. The biofertilizers viz., Azotobacter, phosphate solubilising bacteria and potash releasing bacteria were applied at the rate of 100 g, 200 g and 300 g each along with 75% and 100% recommended dose of fertilizers and control. Among the treatments, the application of 300 g each of Azotobacter, phosphate solubilising bacteria, potash releasing bacteria along with100% recommended dose of fertilizers exhibited profound effect on yield and yield attributing traits, reflected by higher number of bunches (32.05 per vine), maximum bunch weight (275.81 g) and maximum yield (8.84 kg/vine). The same treatment also positively influenced the quality attributes viz., TSS, TSS: acid ratio and total sugars. Application of biofertilizers along with 100% recommended dose of fertilizers have better impact on yield and quality attributes of grape cv. Muscat Hamburg.','Azotobacter, phosphate solubilising bacteria, potash releasing bacteria, yield, quality','Based on the present investigation, it is concluded that application of biofertilizers viz., 300 g Azotobacter, 300 g Phosphate solubilising bacteria and 300 g Potassium releasing bacteria/vine along with 100% RDF in grapes cv. Muscat Hamburg is found to improve the yield and quality attributes.','-','Vijayalakshmi T., C. Kavitha, K.A. Shanmugasundaram and I. Muthuvel (2022). Effect of Biofertilizers on Yield and Quality Attributes of Grape cv. Muscat Hamburg. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 14(4a): 238-241.');
INSERT INTO `pdf_upload` VALUES (5848,'147','Effect of Weather Factors on Population Dynamics of Helicoverpa armigera Hubner (Noctuidae: Lepidoptera) in Chickpea','Rajkumar Bajya, Yogesh Patel, Vinod Kumar Garg and Neeraj Kumar','44 Effect of Weather Factors on Population Dynamics of Helicoverpa armigera Hubner _Noctuidae Lepidoptera_ in Chickpea Rajkumar Bajya.pdf','',1,'The field experiment on population dynamics, of gram pod borer (H. armigera) on chickpea was conducted at the JNKVV, College of agriculture Ganj Basoda. During Season rabi 2020-21. The results showed that the larval population of H. armigera was first observed 48th SMW (0.20 larval/mrl) which increased gradually and attained a peak larval population on 8th SMW (3.80 larvae/mrl). The weather condition prevailed in this week is Thereafter, the population declined from 9th SMW with average population of 3.30 (larvae/mrl) which gradually decreased with 3.0 & 2.82 & 2.25 in 10th and 11th and 12th SMW, respectively. The correlation analysis between gram pod borer with weather parameters indicated that maximum temperature (r=0.581) had significant positive correlation with gram pod borer, while minimum temperature (r = 0.287) shows positive non-significant and maximum relative humidity (r = -0.593) showed significant negative correlation, whereas minimum relative humidity (r = - 0.347) and rainfall (-0.283) showed non-significant negative correlation with gram pod borer.','Chickpea, Population dynamics, Helicoverpa, Weather factors, Relative Humidity, Temperature','The field experiment on population dynamics, of gram pod borer (H. armigera) on chickpea was conducted at the JNKVV, College of agriculture Ganj Basoda during Rabi 2020-21. The results showed that the larval population of H. armigera was first observed 48th SMW (0.20 larval/mrl) which increased gradually and attained a peak on 8th SMW (3.80 larvae/mrl). Thereafter, the population declined from 9th SMW with average population of 3.30 (larvae/mrl) which gradually decreased with 3.0 & 2.82 & 2.25 in 10th and 11th and 12th SMW, respectively. The correlation analysis between gram pod borer with weather parameters indicated that maximum temperature (r=0.581) had significant positive correlation with gram pod borer, while minimum temperature (r = 0.287) shows positive non-significant and maximum relative humidity (r = -0.593) showed significant negative correlation, whereas minimum relative humidity (r = - 0.347) and rainfall (-0.283) showed non-significant negative correlation with gram pod borer.','-','Rajkumar Bajya, Yogesh Patel, Vinod Kumar Garg and Neeraj Kumar (2022). Effect of Weather Factors on Population Dynamics of Helicoverpa armigera Hubner (Noctuidae: Lepidoptera) in Chickpea. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 14(4a): 242-245.'),(5849,'147','Assessment and Evaluation of Zero Tillage Technology for Wheat Cultivation by using Seed Cum Fertilizer Seed Drill in Madhesh Province of Nepal','Ram Nath Jha, Roshan Kumar Sah, Arbind Jha and Lalan Kumar Singh','45 Assessment and Evaluation of Zero Tillage Technology for Wheat Cultivation by using Seed Cum Fertilizer Seed Drill in Madhesh Province of Nepal Ram Nath Jha.pdf','',1,'Wheat is one of the major food crops of Nepal after rice and maize. Traditional methods of wheat cultivation are labor intensive, tedious, time taking, and demands huge amount of resources that increase the cost of cultivation, therefore farmers get less benefit from this practice. Nepalese agriculture is facing labor scarcity due to a lack of youth and skilled manpower who migrated to urban areas and the gulf countries in search of better opportunities. In order to address this issue, Agricultural Machinery Testing and Research Centre (AMTRC), Nawalpur, Sarlahi had conducted participatory research on zero tillage technologies for wheat cultivation in Mahottari districts during 2076/077 (2019/20) and 077/078 (2020/21). The research trials were carried out in four replications with three treatments i.e. zero tillage technology through seed cum fertilizer seed drill machine (T1), one ploughing + one harrowing + seeding (T2) and the third treatment was farmers\' practice (T3). For this purpose wheat variety, Gautam was selected and sown @120 kg/ha and fertilizer recommended @100:60:40 N: P2O5: K2O kg/ha respectively. The average grain yield was recorded highest 1726 kg/ha and 3112 kg/ha by the use of seed cum fertilizer seed drill machine in first and second year respectively followed by farmers\' practice with an average yield of 1675 kg/ha and 2925 kg/ha and lowest from the practice of one ploughing + one harrowing + seeding which produced 1530 kg/ha and 2655 kg/ha respectively in first and second year of experiment. Thus highest net return of Rs. 20707.38 /ha was obtained from the use of seed cum fertilizer seed drill machine which was 22.97 per cent more than farmers\' practices. Thus, zero tillage technology through seed cum fertilizer seed drill machine method was found suitable for wheat cultivation for the benefit of the farmers. ','Wheat, Mechanization, Zero Tillage Technology, machine farming','The zero tillage technology was most cost effective for wheat cultivation practices. Zero tillage by seed cum fertilizer seed drill machine was found the most economical because it saves labor, time, irrigation water, reduce cost of cultivation and increase net return per hectare to the farmers. Thus it is recommended to provide incentives to the farmers who want to purchase the zero tillage machines for wheat cultivation.','-','Ram Nath Jha, Roshan Kumar Sah, Arbind Jha and Lalan Kumar Singh (2022). Assessment and Evaluation of Zero Tillage Technology for Wheat Cultivation by using Seed Cum Fertilizer Seed Drill in Madhesh Province of Nepal. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 14(4a): 246-250.'),(5850,'147','Wonder Millets - Pearl Millet, Finger Millet and Foxtail Millet Nutritional Profile and its Role in Health Promotion: A Review','Bachate A.H., V.S. Pawar, Kale P.R. and Lolge R.M.','46 Wonder Millets - Pearl Millet, Finger Millet and Foxtail Millet Nutritional Profile and its Role in Health Promotion A Review Bachate A.pdf','',1,'Millets play a big part in the traditional diets of many parts of the nation. Millets have a number of desirable qualities, including being resistant to drought, producing well in locations with limited water supplies, and having high nutritional values. Millet grain is ideal as food and feed since it is rich in minerals and phenolic compounds that have positive health effects. Millets include phenolic characteristics that include phenolic acids, flavonoids, and tannins, all of which are good for human health. When choosing millet for use as food or feed, the variety of millet that is available is necessary. The varied nutritional and phenolic components contained in pearl, finger and foxtail millets are excellent markers of this. In addition, finger millet has a phenolic profile that is remarkably distinct, more varied, and plentiful as compared to pearl millet. Seven of the eight essential amino acids, which the human body is unable to manufacture, are found in foxtail millet. Millet grains contain phytochemicals, they improve human health by reducing phytates and cholesterol levels. Dieticians and nutritionists must work to encourage the people to consume more millets in general and in particular considering their nutritional profile and phytochemical contribution. Due to sound nutritional benefits of millets, the best approach for combating the global panacea of pandemics like hidden hunger, diabetes, obesity, celiac disease, vitamin deficiency and so an. It will also help to reach nations target to end hunger by 2030. The main challenge is to transform the food system to achieve food and nutrition security. One of the ways to reach closer to our goal is to provide an affordable healthy and nutritious diet to all.','Millets, nutrition, finger millet, foxtail millet, pearl millet, phenolic compounds, phytochemicals','Millets are small seeded annual grasses that are cultivated as grain crops, primarily on marginal lands in dry areas in temperate, subtropical and tropical regions. Millets are less expensive and nutritionally superior to other grains. It provides bunch of nutrients like high protein, fibre, vitamins and minerals like iron content. In developing country, occurrence of malnutrition and various health problems like obesity, diabetes, cardiovascular disease, skin problems, cancer, celiac disease etc. are most prominent because of inadequate supply of nutrition. This is mainly due to unawareness of people and lack of knowledge to people about nutritional value of agriculture crops and its role in human health.\r\nThe main aim of review is to make awareness among people to recognize the importance of food and to introduce the millets as a nutritious food, fulfilling the nutritional need and to reduce the problems of malnutrition and other health problems. millet foods are having significant health benefits, with their rich content of nutrients like fibre which helps in metabolic disorders like Diabetes, Obesity, Cardiovascular diseases etc, their good protein content which helps in child growth and development, with calcium content which helps in the bone development in both children and geriatric people, with good iron content helps in ailing of anaemia and with gluten free characteristics helps the celiac disease patients and helps in gluten insensitivity. Phytosterols and policosanols are cardio-protective compounds present in the waxy layers of the millet. This study showed that millets act as medicine and it is best source of nutraceutical for human.\r\n','-','Bachate A.H., V.S. Pawar, Kale P.R. and Lolge R.M. (2022). Wonder Millets - Pearl Millet, Finger Millet and Foxtail Millet Nutritional Profile and its Role in Health Promotion: A Review. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 14(4a): 251-257.'),(5851,'147','Evaluation of Nutritional, Physicochemical and Functional properties of Yam Flour','R.M. Lolge, B.S. Agarkar, R.B. Kshirsagar and B.M. Patil','47 Evaluation of Nutritional, Physicochemical and Functional properties of Yam Flour R.M. Lolge.pdf','',1,'The aim of research study was to develop yam flour and to analyze its nutritional, physicochemical and functional properties. Yam is a staple food in tropical areas because it contains good amounts of carbohydrates, proteins, fiber and minerals. Yam can also be cooked, boiled, roasted, or fried. It has been thought of as an alternative to address micronutrient deficiencies in the child population. Yam tubers are a highly perishable foodstuff that require careful handling owing to pest infestation and physiological changes due to its high moisture content and rapid respiration rates. Preparation of yam flour reduces handling and transportion cost, also makes it suitable for incorporation in various products. For the preparation of yam flour cabinet dryer was used. The prepared yam flour composed of moisture 5.3%, ash 3.86%, total fat content 1.3%, total protein 3.7%. Yam flour was a good source of carbohydrate with 83.8% and crude fiber content of yam flour was 2.04%. Yam was found to be good source of potassium with 130.7±0.03 mg/100g. Tapped density was 0.714 g/ml and True density was 0.606 g/ml. Compressibility index of yam flour was 22.26%. Yam flour had angle of repose 36.02±0.03°. The hunter lab colorimeter readings for yam flour were L* lightness value was 76.35±0.015, a* value was 4.73±0.01 and b* value was 12.16± 0.015 while chroma (C*) and hue value (h*) were 13.05±0.005 and 68.78±0.015 respectively. The yam flour had WAC value of 254.2±0.6%. Oil absorption capacity was 125.0±1% and swelling index was 2.8. High water absorption capacity makes it suitable for use in soups as a thickening agent. Yams are underutilized tuber crops besides having such a good nutritional value. The production of yam flour increases its utilization in various products and helps in eradicating malnutrition. ','Yam flour, proximate composition, physical properties, swelling index, water absorption capacity','Yam flour is becoming important and food producers, marketers, consumers are drawing attention to it. It can generate high income for farmers because of high market value and profitability. The information given above shoes that yam flours have great potential for production of various food products where high viscosity is desired. Functional properties of yam flour depend on starch content and to less extent on flour. Also, yam flour has good nutritional and therapeutic value. So, it can be used for eliminating health related problems and serves as food security.','-','R.M. Lolge, B.S. Agarkar, R.B. Kshirsagar and B.M. Patil (2022). Evaluation of Nutritional, Physicochemical and Functional properties of Yam Flour. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 14(4a): 258-263.'),(5852,'147','Comparing the Effect of Feeding Zea mays and Cumbu Napier Hybrid Grass on Milk Yield and its composition in Cross Bred (Jersey x Sindhi) Cattle','M. Suganthi, S. Gunasekaran, P. Anuradha, S. Usha and L. Radhakrishnan','48 Comparing the Effect of Feeding Zea mays and Cumbu Napier Hybrid Grass on Milk Yield and its composition in Cross Bred _Jersey x Sindhi_ Cattle M. Suganthi.pdf','',1,'Maize is one of the important most nutritious non-legume green fodders which is free of antinutritional factors. An lactation trail was conducted in crossbred (Jersey × Sindhi) milch cows for 60 days to compare fodder maize and Cumbu Napier Hybrid (CN Hybrid) grass on the milk yield and milk composition parameters. Eighteen crossbred (Jersey × Sindhi) cows in second and third lactation with an average body weight of 363 ± 15.86 kg were selected and were randomly divided into six groups (6 × 3 cows). The experimental animals were fed with green fodders Maize and Cumbu Napier hybrid grass in different combinations viz., T1- Feeding green fodder with 100 % maize, T2- Feeding green fodder with 75 % maize + 25% CN Hybrid, T3- Feeding green fodder with 50 % maize + 50 % CN Hybrid, T4- Feeding green fodder with 25 % maize + 75% CN Hybrid and T5- Feeding green fodder with 100 % CN Hybrid. Control group animals (T6) were fed with paddy straw alone. The experimental data revealed that feeding of recommended green fodder as maize 100 % (T1) and feeding green fodder with 75 % maize + 25% CN Hybrid (T2) increased the milk yield and milk quality parameters. This was followed by the next best treatments such as CN hybrid grass feeding along with maize in different combination (T3, T4 and T5). Significantly higher milk fat and SNF was observed in T1 group. Significant (0.05%) difference in SNF was observed between treatments and control. Similar trend was observed in lactation length and inter calving period also. Hence it could be concluded that feeding 100% of recommended green fodder as maize increased the milk yield and milk composition in crossbred (Jersey × Sindhi) milch cows.','Cumbu Napier hybrid grass, Maize, Feeding, Milk yield, Lactation length, Fat, and SNF','From this experiment, it can be concluded that feeding green fodder as maize 100 % (T1) and feeding green fodder with 75 % maize + 25% CN Hybrid (T2) increased the milk yield and milk quality parameters like fat and SNF. The same trend was observed in lactation length and intercalving period also. Hence it could be concluded that feeding of recommended green fodder as maize at 100% or at 75% level in the roughage component can increase the milk yield and milk parameters in crossbred (Jersey × Sindhi) milch cows.','-','M. Suganthi, S. Gunasekaran, P. Anuradha, S. Usha and L. Radhakrishnan (2022). Comparing the Effect of Feeding Zea mays and Cumbu Napier Hybrid Grass on Milk Yield and its composition in Cross Bred (Jersey x Sindhi) Cattle. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 14(4a): 264-267.'),(5853,'147','Biology of Pulse Beetle, Callosobruchus chinensis Linn. on different varieties of Pigeonpea','Patel Harsh, Pratap Nalwandikar, Gambhire Vishnukant and Zatale Nishant','49 Biology of Pulse Beetle, Callosobruchus chinensis Linn. on Different varieties of Pigeonpea Patel Harsh.pdf','',1,'In different varieties of pigeonpea, seed surface, seed coat thickness and seed size have been linked with mechanism of resistance. The overall results indicated that different biological and life fecundity parameters of C. chinensis varied significantly when reared on different varieties of pigeonpea. The mean incubation period was 4.26 days on BSMR-853 followed by BDN-711 (4.35 days), BDN-708 (4.41 days) and BDN-716 (4.65 days). The significantly highest egg hatch was observed on BSMR-853 (96 per cent) followed by BDN-711 (93 per cent), BDN-708 (92 per cent) and BDN-716 (88 per cent). The significantly shortest larval-pupal duration was noticed on BSMR-853 (19.93 days) followed by BDN-711 (20.66 days), BDN-708 (21.84 days) and BDN-716 (22.20 days). Significantly highest growth index was noticed on BSMR-853 (2.75) followed by BDN-711 (2.70), BDN-708 (2.60) and shortest on BDN-716 (2.43). The significantly minimum total developmental period was observed on BSMR-853 (24.17 days) followed by BDN-711 (25.02 days), BDN-708 (26.26 days) and maximum on BDN-716 (26.81 days). Significantly highest adult emergence was observed in the case of those grubs which were reared on BSMR-853 (96.84 per cent) followed BDN-711 (95.73 per cent), BDN-708 (94.49 per cent) and lowest on BDN-716 (88.83 per cent). The significantly highest adult longevity was noticed on BSMR-853 (10.70 days) followed by BDN-711 (10.34 days), BDN-708 (9.69 days) and BDN-716 (9.68 days). Significantly lowest total life cycle duration was noticed on BSMR-853 (34.87 days) followed by BDN-711 (35.37 days), BDN-708 (35.95 days) and BDN-716 (36.47 days). The significantly highest oviposition period was observed on BSMR-853 (7.20 days) followed by BDN-711 (6.80 days), BDN-708 (6.00 days) and BDN-716 (5.60 days). The fecundity (eggs per female) was highest on BSMR-853 (88.20) followed by BDN-711 (82.60), BDN-708 (74.60) and BDN-716 (69.40). Hence, BDN-716 was the most resistant host for the development of C. chinensis as compared to BDN-711, BDN-708 and BSMR-853.','Pulse beetle, biology, pigeonpea, varieties, C. chinensis','The significantly higher incubation period (4.65 days) was observed when C. chinensis reared on BDN-716. The shortest incubation period (4.26 days) was noticed in BSMR-853 which was at par with BDN-708 (4.41 days). The highest egg hatchability observed in BSMR-853 (96 per cent) and lowest hatchability in BDN-716 (88 per cent). The significantly shorter larval-pupal duration of C. chinensis was found in BSMR-853 (19.93 days) whereas, higher larval-pupal duration (22.20 days) was recorded on BDN-716 and it was at par with larval-pupal duration observed in BDN-708 (21.84 days). The highest growth index (2.75) was recorded on pigeonpea variety BSMR-853 and it was at par with BDN-711 (2.70). The significantly lowest growth index (2.43) recorded in BDN-716. \r\n The significantly shorter developmental period (24.17 days) was found in BSMR-853. The longest developmental period (26.81 days) was observed in BDN-716 which was at par with BDN-708 (26.26 days). The significantly shorter life cycle duration (34.87 days) was reported on BSMR-853. The longer life cycle duration (36.49 days) was found in BDN-716 which was at par with BDN-708 (35.95 days). The highest adult emergence (96.84 per cent) was noticed in BSMR-853 however, it was at par with BDN-711 (95.73 per cent) and BDN-708 (94.49 per cent). The significantly lowest adult emergence (88.83 per cent) observed in BDN-716. The highest male beetle emergence was observed in BDN-708 (46.72 per cent) and incase of females it was highest in BSMR-853 (53.38 per cent). The highest adult longevity (10.70 days) observed on BSMR-853 and was at par with BDN-711 (10.34 days). The lowest longevity reported in BDN-716 (9.68 days) which was at par with BDN-708 (9.69 days). The maximum sex ratio of male: female was recorded on BSMR-853 (1: 1.21) followed by BDN-716 (1: 1.19), BDN-711 (1: 1.17) and minimum on BDN-708 (1: 1.02). \r\nThe significantly longer oviposition period (7.20 days) was found on BSMR-853 and significantly lowest oviposition period (5.60 days) on BDN-716. The significantly highest fecundity (88.20 eggs) was noticed on BSMR-853 and significantly lowest fecundity (69.40 eggs) on BDN-716. \r\n','-','Patel Harsh, Pratap Nalwandikar, Gambhire Vishnukant and Zatale Nishant (2022). Biology of Pulse Beetle, Callosobruchus chinensis Linn. on different varieties of Pigeonpea. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 14(4a): 268-272.'),(5854,'125','Genetic Diversity Analysis in Indian Mustard [Brassica juncea (L.) Czern and Coss.] Genotypes','Tarkeshwar, Shiva Nath, Govind Mishra, Amit Kumar Chaudhary, Rishabh Gupta, Ajeet Kumar Gupta and S.C. Vimal','270 Genetic Diversity Analysis in Indian Mustard [Brassica juncea _L._ Czern and Coss.] Genotypes Tarkeshwar.pdf','',1,'The production and productivity of Indian mustard is not as sufficient as it can fulfil the current demand of edible oils of the country. This regard, there is an urgent need of high productive varieties of Indian mustard. Availability of sufficient genetic diversity is the basic necessity of any breeding programme for the improvement in desirable traits. The present investigation was carried out at Students Instructional Farm of Acharya Narendra Deva University of Agriculture and Technology, Kumarganj, Ayodhya consisting of sixty Indian mustard genotypes including three checks sown in Augmented Block Design during rabi 2021-2022 to study the diversity present among Indian mustard genotypes for seed yield and its component traits. The sixty genotypes of Indian mustard were grouped into six clusters. Cluster I and IV highest genotypes i.e., 13 each while lowest genotypes were noted in cluster III having 6 genotypes. The average inter cluster D2 values indicated that the most diverse groups were III & II and cluster III & I.\r\nThe genotypes from the most diverse clusters can be used as donors for rewarding the trait improvement.\r\n','Brassica juncea, genetic diversity, inter cluster distance, Euclidean cluster analysis','The genotypes present in a single cluster show the relatedness in their genetic pattern, and the genotypes of various clusters show distinctness in their genetic pattern. In other words, the more the inter cluster value, the more will be diversity among the genotypes of that clusters. Hence, selection of genotypes from a single cluster while planning a breeding program, will not be of genetic worth. So, opting genotypes form distant clusters will be of eminent use in our breeding program. The average inter cluster D2 values indicated that the most diverse groups were III & II and cluster III & I. Hence, while planning a breeding programme for higher test weight and a greater number of secondary branches per plant, the genotypes from these diverse clusters can be incorporated as donors.','-','Tarkeshwar, Shiva Nath, Govind Mishra, Amit Kumar Chaudhary, Rishabh Gupta, Ajeet Kumar Gupta and S.C. Vimal (2022). Genetic Diversity Analysis in Indian Mustard [Brassica juncea (L.) Czern and Coss.] Genotypes. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 14(2): 1571-1574.'),(5855,'125','Influence of Various Organic Nutrient Sources on Dry matter Partitioning and Physiological parameters of Vegetable Cluster bean (Cyamopsis tetragonoloba (L.) Taub.)','Ammaladinne Tharun Kumar, E. Somasundaram and N. Thavaprakaash','271 Influence of Various Organic Nutrient Sources on Dry matter Partitioning and Physiological parameters of Vegetable Cluster bean Ammaladinne Tharun Kumar.pdf','',1,'Organic farming is one of the best alternate crop production systems to safe guard human health and other life in agricultural ecosystem from toxic chemicals used in agriculture. Cluster bean is leguminous industrial crop, with huge demand for various sectors like food consumer markets, pharmaceuticals, medicine etc. Indiscriminate use of chemical inputs in cluster bean cultivation affects human health system and environment. So, the research on influence of different organic nutrient sources compared to conventional recommended dose of fertilizers (RDF) on dry-matter partitioning and physiological parameters on vegetable cluster bean was explored. The experiment was carried out using randomized complete block design (RCBD) with twelve treatments and three replications at irrigated condition ta Agricultural College and Research Institute, Tamil Nadu Agricultural University, Coimbatore between June to September, 2018. The dry weight of root, stem, leaf and total plant dry weight, LAI, CGR, AGR and RGR of cluster bean were measured and had shown significant difference with application of recommended dose of fertilizer (50:50:25 – NPK) along with a foliar spray application of TNAU pulse wonder (T11). However, it was statistically on par with organic farmers’ practice (T1) and FYM @ 25 t/hain addition to foliar spray of 3% Panchagavya (T2). Considering the need for chemical free environment at food production sites, the farmer’s practice of applying FYM @ 10 t/ha + Jeevamruth @ 500 l/ha through irrigation + foliar spray application of Panchagavya @ 3% is found to beneficial for vegetable clusterbean growth and yield.','Organic manures, Vegetable Cluster bean, Dry-matter partitioning, Physiological parameters and recommended dose of fertilizers (RDF)','Along with food security, it is necessary to consider the safety of environment, human health and in agriculture and food production system. So, it is concluded that the farmer’s practice – basal application of farm yard manure (FYM) @ 10 tonnes per hectare, along with Jeevamruth @ 500 litres per hectare application along with irrigation water and foliar spray application of Panchagavya @ 3 per cent is found to provide better growth rate and better partitioning of photosynthates to sink for higher yields in vegetable clusterbean.','-','Ammaladinne Tharun Kumar, E.Somasundaram and N. Thavaprakaash (2022). Influence of Various Organic Nutrient Sources on Dry matter Partitioning and Physiological parameters of Vegetable Cluster bean (Cyamopsis tetragonoloba (L.) Taub.). Biological Forum – An International Journal, 14(2): 1575-1579.'),(5856,'125','Improving Barley Productivity with Sustainable use of Agrochemicals and Managed Irrigation in Climate Change Scenario','Kavita, Amarjeet Nibhoria and Preetam Kumar','272 Improving Barley Productivity with Sustainable use of Agrochemicals and Managed Irrigation in Climate Change Scenario Kavita.pdf','',1,'The ongoing climate change has severely altered the pattern of rainfall distribution spatially as well as temporally. The effect of climate change can be seen through the increased severity of torrential rains and the long interval between the two rains. In semi-arid and arid areas, where most of the agriculture is rainfall based with limited irrigation sources, long dry spells between the rains severely hampers the crop production. Late vegetative and reproductive water stress combined with high temperature stress, preferably in rabi crops (Wheat, Barley etc.) is highly disadvantageous for anthesis, fertilization, grain filling and grain development. Water availability at grain filling stage is quite crucial to avoid yield loss. Irrigation management and use of natural as well as synthetic agrochemicals in a sustainable manner is necessary. Irrigation timing as well as number should be planned in order to attain higher water use efficiency i.e., more crop produced per drop of water. Natural agrochemicals such as herbal hydrogel “Tragacanth katira” holds water strongly and make it available to the crop slowly under high water tension in low soil moisture conditions. Plant bioregulators are well known to improve the physiology of the plant which increases stress tolerance. Salicylic acid and potassium nitrate are the plant bioregulators which improves the physiology of the plant giving stress endurance and reduces the extent of yield loss along with improvement in water use efficiency as well as quality of grains.','Agrochemicals, water use efficiency, productivity, hydrogel, salicylic acid','Water stress at critical stages certainly reduces the productivity and profitability of barley by adversely affecting the growth and physiology. But the extent of loss can be significantly reduced by the use of herbal hydrogel before sowing to mitigate early vegetative stress and foliar sprays of agrochemicals at late vegetative or reproductive stage. Being natural products, salicylic acid and hydrogel are not harmful for the environment, however KNO3 is a chemical fertilizer and osmo-protectant, but the quantity used for foliar spray is quite low, thus helping in sustainable management of water stress.','-','Kavita, Amarjeet Nibhoria and Preetam Kumar (2022). Improving Barley Productivity with Sustainable use of Agrochemicals and Managed Irrigation in Climate Change Scenario. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 14(2): 1580-1586.'),(5857,'147','Influence of the Foliar Application of Salicylic Acid and Zinc Sulphate on Biochemical Parameters and Yield Attributes of Groundnut (Arachis hypogaea L.)','Palandurkar Bhairavee Prakash, Prashant V. Shende, Sapana B. Baviskar and Prema R. Manapure','50 Influence of the Foliar Application of Salicylic Acid and Zinc Sulphate on Biochemical Parameters and Yield Attributes of Groundnut _Arachis hypogaea L._ Palandurkar Bhairavee Prakash.pdf','',1,'In the present scenario of Climate Change, in the case of the Vidarbha region, in India and the world as a whole; the major problem is erratic rainfall. Especially in the case of Kharif groundnut (which is mostly dependent on rainfall); which makes it susceptible to moisture stress; leading to low nutrient uptake and therefore yields poor. Therefore, A field trial was conducted at the farm of Agril. Botany, College of Agriculture, Nagpur during Kharif season 2021 to study the influence of the foliar application of salicylic acid and zinc sulphate on biochemical parameters and yield attributes of groundnut (Arachis hypogaea L.). The experiment was carried out in randomized block design and replicated thrice consisting of twelve treatments of salicylic acid (50, 100, 150 ppm) and zinc sulphate (0.50%, 1.00%) applied individually and in combinations. It can be concluded that foliar spray of salicylic acid and zinc sulphate at 30 and 50 DAS helps to maintain the turgidity of the plant and that leads to appropriate nutrient uptake; that significantly enhanced the biochemical parameters viz., total chlorophyll content in leaf, oil content in the kernel, nitrogen content in leaves and yield attributes viz., the number of pods plant-1, pod yield plant-1 (g), plot-1 (Kg), ha-1 (q), seed yield ha-1 (q). Among the treatments application of 100 ppm and 150 ppm salicylic acid with 1.00% of zinc sulphate gave significantly higher results in all parameters studied. ','Salicylic acid, zinc sulphate, groundnut, biochemical, foliar spray, yield, oil content','Foliar application of salicylic acid and zinc sulphate at 30 and 50 DAS shows significant variations in nearly all studied characters except a few (test weight). Individual treatments of salicylic acid and zinc sulphate also show significant variation in all studied characters; when compared with control, but less effective than treatment combinations. Groundnut variety PDKVG-335 shows a positive response to foliar application (at 30 and 50 DAS) of salicylic acid and zinc sulphate. Among all the treatments under study; the treatment combination of salicylic acid and zinc sulphate shows a more significant increase in all studied characters; than individual applications of these two.The biochemical parameter such as chlorophyll content and nitrogen content in leaves shows significant variation and contributed to an increase in yield. Similarly, being an oilseed crop, the range of oil content in the kernel shows an increasing trend. The highest per cent increase in yield (31.33%) over control was observed by the application of salicylic acid @ 150 ppm + zinc sulphate @ 1.00% as a foliar spray at 30 and 50 DAS. Next to this treatment foliar spray of salicylic acid @ 100 ppm + zinc sulphate @ 1.00% also enhanced yield by 27.09% over control. The yield was increased by this treatment over control with a B:C ratio of 2.66 and 2.58 respectively. From the overall result, it can be stated that foliar application of salicylic acid and zinc sulphate with different concentrations improved biochemical and yield and yield contributing characters and might have helped in attaining better seed yield in the present investigation. Among treatment combinations; treatment T12 (Salicylic acid @ 150 ppm + Zinc sulphate @ 1.00%) and T10 (Salicylic acid @ 100 ppm + Zinc Sulphate @ 1.00%) show the highest significant increase in all studied characters; when applied at 30 and 50 DAS.','-','Palandurkar Bhairavee Prakash, Prashant V. Shende, Sapana B. Baviskar and Prema R. Manapure (2022). Influence of the Foliar Application of Salicylic Acid and Zinc Sulphate on Biochemical Parameters and Yield Attributes of Groundnut (Arachis hypogaea L.). Biological Forum – An International Journal, 14(4a): 273-278.'),(5858,'147','Effect of Zinc-invigorations on Seed Longevity in Mungbean (Vigna radiata L. Wilczek)','Mrinali M. M.','51 Effect of Zinc-invigorations on Seed Longevity in Mungbean _Vigna radiata L. Wilczek_ Mrinali M.pdf','',1,'Arid and semi-arid soils characterized by low fertility and Zn deficiency are major areas of cultivation for mungbean (Vigna radiata (L.) Wilczek) leading to its low productivity. Zn invigorations like Zn-priming and Zn-coating on seeds are reported to enhance crop establishment. The present study was formulated to study the effect of Zn-invigorations (priming and coating) on seed longevity in the mungbean variety PUSA VISHAL. Zn-invigorations viz., Zn-Primed, Zn-NCPC, AmZn, EDTA-Zn were taken in different formulations and assessed for seed quality attributes to standardize the best performing treatments. Significantly higher performing treatments were selected to investigate seed longevity under storage conditions from 0 to 12 months duration at an interval of every 3 months. At the end of the storage period (12 months), seed coating with Zn-NCPC (1:4) fertilizer manifested in significantly superior germination % (80.67), seedling shoot length (17.31 cm), seedling root length (9.33 cm), seedling length (26.64 cm), seedling dry weight (0.2543 g), seed vigour index-I (2152.1), seed vigour index-II (20.54) as compared to previous observations. This study led to the understanding that hydro-primed and Zn-primed seeds lose their viability at a faster rate and germination drops below IMSCS (70%) within 6 months of storage. In Zn-invigorated seeds, Zn-toxicity tolerance of the seed decreases with ageing which manifests in lower seed quality attributes. On the contrary, abnormal seedling % and dead seed % increase drastically with seed ageing in mungbean.','Mungbean, Zn-invigoration, Zn-priming, Zn-seed coating, Zn-Nano Clay Polymer Composite (Zn-NCPC), Amino acid chelated Zn, EDTA chelated Zn, Seed longevity','Mungbean has the potential for food as well as nutritional security, owing to itsinherent climate-resilient nature. Grown in marginal Zn-deficient soils strengthen the base for treating the mungbean seeds with Zn-enriched fertilizers. Also, storage longevity needs to be established for such Zn-invigorated seed treatments thus, storage studies were imperative to generate meaningful scientific data on the same. Hence, the present study was undertaken to assess the best Zn-invigorated seed treatment and its effect on seed longevity under storage upto 12 months duration. The current investigation started with a series of standardization experiments executed for Zn-primed and coated seeds viz., Control, Hydro-primed, 450-ppm-Zn primed, Zn-NCPC (1:4), EDTA-Zn (1:7) and AmZn (1:7), were subjected to storage studies (0 months to 12 months) with all treatments except EDTA-Zn (1:7) owing to Zn-toxicity. Abundant evidence was established that seeds coated with Zn-NCPC (1:4) fertilizer treatment manifested in significantly higher germination %, seedling shoot length, seedling root length, seedling length, seedling dry weight, seed vigour index-I and seed vigour index-II. \r\nThe study also led to the understanding that during storage, hydro-primed and Zn-primed seeds lose their viability at a faster rate and germination drops below IMSCS (70%) within 6 months of storage. With seed ageing, Zn-toxicity tolerance of the seed decreases, which manifests in lower seed germination %, average shoot length, average root length, average length of 10 seedlings, dry weight of 10 seedlings, seed vigour index-I, seed vigour index-II. On the contrary, abnormal seedling % and dead seed % increase drastically with seed ageing. \r\n','-','Mrinali M. M. (2022). Effect of Zinc-invigorations on Seed Longevity in Mungbean (Vigna radiata L. Wilczek). Biological Forum – An International Journal, 14(4a): 279-285.'),(5859,'147','Effect of Sulphuring on Physical Parameters of Dry Ginger (Zingiber officinale) Genotypes','Nagireddy Manasa, Sadashiv Nadukeri, Shashikala S. Kolakar, Kantharaj Y., Ganapathi, M. and Raviraja Shetty G.','52 Effect of Sulphuring on Physical Parameters of Dry Ginger _Zingiber officinale_ Genotypes Sadashiv Nadukeri.pdf','',1,'An experiment was carried out to evaluate “The effect of sulphuring on physical parameters of dried ginger (Zingiber officinale Rosc.) genotypes” at COH, Mudigere during 2021-2022. The experiment was laid out in a Factorial Randomized Complete Block Design. Zingiber officinale Rosc. is a rhizomatous perennial herb spice crop in the Zingiberaceae family. About 30 per cent of the ginger that is produced in India is turned into dried ginger, 50 per cent is used as green or fresh ginger, and the remaining 40 per cent is utilised as seed. Farmers now a days practicing sulphuring or sulphitation while drying ginger to get bleaching effect which is harmful to farmers as well as consumers. This research was conducted to know the safe level of sulphur concentration for drying ginger. Peeled, whole ginger rhizomes were sulphured for 12 hrs and were dried under polytunnel dryer at 60oC. The results from the experiments can be concluded that, Maran and Himachal varieties are best suitable for producing dry ginger and the maximum dry weight was noticed in Maran (1.76 kg) and the highest dry matter was noticed in Himachal (7.42g) at 3.5 (g/kg) sulphur concentration. ','Pre-treatment, sulphuring, dried ginger, dry recovery percentage, polytunnel drying method','Among the different varieties, the physical parameters were found to be the best in the Maran and Himachal varieties for dry weight and dry recovery percentage, which were major contribution to the final dry yield and 3.5 g/kg of sulphur concentration was found to be superior for all physical parameters.','-','Nagireddy Manasa, Sadashiv Nadukeri, Shashikala S. Kolakar, Kantharaj Y., Ganapathi, M. and Raviraja Shetty G. (2022). Effect of Sulphuring on Physical Parameters of Dry Ginger (Zingiber officinale) Genotypes. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 14(4a): 286-290.'),(5860,'147','Segregation of Vegetative Trait Aberrations in Chemical Mutagen Treated Groundnut (Arachis hypogaea L.) Varieties','Plawani Panda and Banshidhar Pradhan','53 Segregation of Vegetative Trait Aberrations in Chemical Mutagen Treated Groundnut _Arachis hypogaea L._ Varieties Plawani Panda.pdf','',1,'In groundnut (Arachis hypogaea L.) the vegetative morphology is used to determine the crop duration, maturity index and is the backbone of taxonomic classification considering the geocarpic pegging nature of the crop. Induced mutation has proved to be very beneficial in groundnut crop. In a mutation breeding program, selection of appropriate mutagen allows production of wide spectrum of desirable mutants. The present study was conducted to study the mutagenic frequency of vegetative traits appearing in M2 population of treated groundnut varieties and study the effect of different doses of chemical mutagens i.e ethyl methane sulfonate (EMS) and sodium azide (SA) in producing aberration in vegetative traits. The occurrence of segregants in M2 allows to study the variation of characters present in the parent population and selection of true mutants. As most of the characters in groundnut are not linked, it alsoallowsthe use of mutants for a varietal development.A diverse range of viable mutations with altered vegetative morphological traits were isolated in the mutagenized groundnut population in M2 generation, which may be useful in yield improvement traits. Most number of dwarf plants (147) were obtained from V3 treated with SA (V3N). Shift in the pattern of growth habit were observedin some mutants. Variation in leaflet number and size followed an order of V3>V4>V1>V2. Cuneate mutant was observed in V1. V4 had unique trait of leaf node pigmentation. The mutagenic frequency ranged from 0.0484 in V4(Total EMS to 0.5308 in V3(Total SA). SA efficiently produced more number of mutants than EMS. In growth habit erect type was prominent mutant. In number of leaflets, pentafoliate and hexafoliate types and in leaf tip the mucronate mutant were most common type of mutation in segregating plant population. In mutation breeding experiment handling and maintaining of the field is a challenging task. Generally, the morphological mutants are not taken into consideration to estimate the mutagenic frequency and even if attempt is made only few desirable ones are recorded. Identification of a mutant was carried out with the set of groundnut descriptors to study the variations occurring and further generation screening and advancement.','Segregation, mutagenic frequency, aberration, mutation, Arachis','A wide range of mutations (aberrations) were observed in the vegetative traits in M2 population. A total of 276 dwarf mutants were observed and 823 number of leaf anomaly mutants recorded in the entire population. The mutation frequency of SA treated plants in every variety was higher than the EMS treated population for inducing mutants in vegetative traits. The percentage of mutants occurring was 2.667 which refers to single event of individual mutant considered at a time, but there is a chance of overlapping of two or more mutant traits in a single plant which further decreases the actual number of mutant. V3 responded very well to SA. plants in the population. This is an important consideration to make while studying the mutant population for individual traits and forwarding the population to next generation. It is to be noted that mutants for vegetative traits help study the effect of different mutagenic doses and developing any uniquemutant into a new variety either directly or in subsequent generations. As vegetative traits are qualitative traits and not affected by environment these do not need stringent methods as pod yield contributing characters. The mutants, mainly dwarf types and early maturing types were forwarded to M3 generation for yield studies and character stability. ','-','Plawani Panda and Banshidhar Pradhan (2022). Segregation of Vegetative Trait Aberrations in Chemical Mutagen Treated Groundnut (Arachis hypogaea L.) Varieties. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 14(4a): 291-296.'),(5861,'147','Epidemiological Model for Potato Late Blight in the Northern Part of West Bengal','Vaidheki M., D.S. Gupta, S. Hembram, M.K. Debnath, T.K. Hath and P. Basak','54 Epidemiological Model for Potato Late Blight in the Northern Part of West Bengal Vaidheki M.pdf','',1,'Phytophthora infestans (Montagne) de Bary, the fungus that causes late blight in potatoes, can practically completely destroy all of the above-ground sections of sensitive cultivars in the presence of favourable environmental factors and in the absence of any preventative measures. Understanding and contrasting the four nonlinear models and empirical model for disease progressive curves of five year data are the main goals of the current study. Data on the progress of the late blight were investigated statistically. The area under the disease progress curve (AUDPC), disease rates, and disease progression curves were estimated. The estimation of the Akaike Information Criterion (AIC), Bayesian Information Criterion (BIC), R-square, MAE, MAPE, RMSE, standard error, and other regression parameters was done. The monomolecular model and the logistic model yielded the lowest standard errors and the highest R-square values. Additionally, the results demonstrated that, for each year, the monomolecular model and the logistic model with the lower AIC and BIC values provided a good fit for the disease progression curve. The area under the disease progression curve was calculated to determine the degree of response to the disease, and the monomolecular model and logistic allow computation of the disease progression rate. 2018 was the lowest prevalence of the Phytophthora infestans disease ever observed. A maximum area under the disease progress curve (AUDPC) value was determined in 2021. Breeding programmes targeted at creating varieties with improved resistance to Phytophthora infestans may benefit from year or varieties with low disease incidence. Empirical models showed the partial occurrence of the Late Blight Disease Incidence, so, we can conclude that all these model cannot fit for this region. Potato blight forecasting is important to protect the potato yield. If the favourable weather conditions can be forecast and communicated to the growers early with sufficient time for a control sprayed, the crop will be protected.','Phytophthora infestans, non linear, disease rate, area under the disease progress curve','The relatively cool nights during December and January within potato growing area makes a big drop for blight occurrence. There was a big problem in these seasons. With the moving-graph method blight would always have been forecast before it occurred, although in some cases it was first observed quite a while after the first favorable period. Based on the results non linear regression models were the most appropriate for description the disease progress data. Late Blight was expected to appear within 7-10 days after ten consecutive disease incidence by the Beamount, Cook and Hyre & Bond’s system.','-','Vaidheki M., D.S. Gupta, S. Hembram, M.K. Debnath, T.K. Hath and P. Basak (2022). Epidemiological Model for Potato Late Blight in the Northern Part of West Bengal. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 14(4a): 297-306.'),(5862,'147','Performance of Parents and Hybrids for Growth and Yield Traits in Brinjal (Solanum melongena L.) under Salt Stress Condition','Shivaji Kallappa Duradundi, R.S. Jawadagi, M. Anjanappa, Raghavendra G., Mallikarjun G. Awati and Vinayakumar M.M.','55 Performance of Parents and Hybrids for Growth and Yield Traits in Brinjal _Solanum melongena L._ under Salt Stress condition Shivaji Kallappa.pdf','',1,'The present study was carried out to know the performance of parents and their hybrids for different traits attributing to yield under salt stress condition in brinjal at Department of Vegetable Science, College of Horticulture, Bagalkot during 2020-21. Among the parents used for investigation G16, G14 and G27 were high yielding of 2.05, 1.82 and 1.75 kg per plant respectively and the hybrids G14 × G16 and G16 × G27 recorded highest estimated yield of 2.54 and 2.36 kg per plant, respectively in brinjal under salt stress (8dS/m NaCl) condition. The hybrid G14 × G16 was most promising for various traits which contribute to highest yield per plant under salt stress condition. Based on their performance under salt stress condition parents can be used for further breeding programme and hybrids could be exploited for cultivation under salt affected soils after assessment of yield stability and tolerance level under different salt sick regions. The successful breeding of brinjal genotypes and identification of hybrids that are high-yielding with resistance to salinity stress could be used to address food security and other related challenges in salt sick areas.','F1 hybrids, Mean performance, Salt tolerance and Yield','The parents G16, G14 and G27 were good performing for all characters taken under study, in this perspective they could be exploited further in different breeding programmes for development of salt tolerant hybrids. The promising hybrids G14 × G16 and G16 × G27 can be further subjected to selection to isolate desirable hybrids in brinjal for salt tolerance.\r\n\r\n','-','Shivaji Kallappa Duradundi, R.S. Jawadagi, M. Anjanappa, Raghavendra G., Mallikarjun G. Awati and Vinayakumar M.M. (2022). Performance of Parents and Hybrids for Growth and Yield Traits in Brinjal (Solanum melongena L.) under Salt Stress Condition. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 14(4a): 307-311.'),(5863,'147','Effect of INM to Improve availability of Leaf Nutrients in Pomegranate','Santosh Kumari, Satpal Baloda, Rajesh Mor, Poonam Saini and M.L. Jat','56 Effect of INM to Improve availability of Leaf Nutrients in Pomegranate Santosh Kumari.pdf','',1,'A field experiment was carried out during the years 2020-21 and 2021-22 in the experimental orchard of CCSHAU, Hisar to study the effect of farmyard manure and biofertilizers with RDF on leaf nutrient content of pomegranate cv. Bhagwa. Twenty two treatments were arranged in a randomized complete block design with three replicates. The main challenge of plant nutrient may be to increase the width of the domain between the access and excess frontiers rather than to define a single economic optimum point. The leaf analysis offers the most accurate and reliable diagnostic tool for examining the nutritional status of trees. Results revealed different fertilizer combination significantly enhanced leaf nitrogen, phosphorus, potassium content due to farmyard manure and biofertilizers application. Also, farmyard manure and biofertilizers could compensate for the 25% reduction of chemical fertilizers. Therefore, treatment T14-RDF 75% + FYM + Azotobacter + PSB is recommended for growers. This treatment gave best result by increasing the nutritional status of the plant through the beneficial effects of organic and biofertilizers which enhanced the availability of nutrients in the soil.','RDF, FYM, pomegranate, biofertilizer','From the present investigation it is inferred that integration of organic manures and biofertilizers and RDF had significant effect on Leaf NPK content during both years. Different integrated treatments failed to significantly affect leaf micronutrient content i.e. MN, Zn, Fe. However, values increased during second year of experimentation.','-','Santosh Kumari, Satpal Baloda, Rajesh Mor, Poonam Saini and M.L. Jat (2022). Effect of INM to Improve availability of Leaf Nutrients in Pomegranate. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 14(4a): 312-317.'),(5864,'147','Plant Growth Regulators Application on Biomass Partitioning in Source and Sink Tissues under Timely Sown and high Temperature Stress Condition in Chickpea','Supriya Debnath, R. Shiv Ramakrishnan, Rohit K. Kumawat, Mrunal Ghogare, Parikha P. Singh, Ashish Kumar, Stuti Sharma, Radheshyam Sharma, Preeti S. Nayak, Gyanendra Tiwari and R.K. Samaiya ','57 Plant Growth Regulators Application on Biomass Partitioning in Source and Sink Tissues under Timely Sown and high Temperature Stress Condition in Chickpea R Shiv Ramakrishnan.pdf','',1,'Heat stress is one of the most important constraints for crop production. Temperature beyond the optimum level leads to heat stress and causes irreversible damage to the growth and development of chickpea. Biomass partitioning is highly responsive to environmental stimuli affecting seed yield under sub-optimal conditions. Plant growth regulator application is a viable option to alter biomass partitioning, optimizing seed yield under heat stress conditions. Therefore, an experiment was conducted to identify effective plant growth regulators for biomass partitioning in chickpeas under high-temperature stress conditions. The investigation comprises two chickpea genotypes viz., JG 14 (heat tolerant cultivar) and JG 36 with two dates of sowing viz., timely sown (18th November) and late (20th December) sown for exposing the crop to high temperature and nine sub-sub treatments viz., control (no spray), water spray, foliar spray of plant growth regulator viz., thiourea (100ppm, 200 ppm, 400 ppm and 600 ppm) and salicylic acid (200 ppm, 400 ppm am 600 ppm) at anthesis stage. Delayed sown high-temperature stress condition reduces biomass partitioning in leaves, main stem, and secondary branches, with an increase in pods. Heal tolerant variety JG 14 exhibited enhanced biomass partitioning in leaves, main stems, secondary branches, and pods compared to JG 36. Under timely sown conditions at the physiological maturity stage (90 DAS), salicylic acid @ 200 ppm and 400 ppm efficiently increased biomass partitioning in pods and main stem, respectively. Pulse, a source-limited crop, is desired to enhance source activity under heat-stress conditions. In the present study, under high-temperature stress conditions, source activity or biomass partitioning in source tissue (leaves) was enhanced by foliar application of salicylic acid @ 400 ppm, while thiourea @ 600 ppm enhances biomass partitioning in the main stem and secondary branches.','Biomass partitioning, plant growth regulator, heat stress, late sowing, heat tolerance, salicylic acid, thiourea','The dry matter partitioning towards leaves, secondary branches, and main stem decreases as the phenology progresses from flowering to maturity under timely and high-temperature stress conditions. In contrast, dry matter partitioning towards pods increases with the progression of growth duration under both timely and high-temperature stress conditions. Late sown high-temperature stress reduces dry matter partitioning of leaves, secondary branches, and main stem, whereas an increase in dry matter partitioning towards pods was observed. Heat tolerant chickpea variety, JG 14, reflected an increase in biomass partitioning towards leaves, secondary branches, and main stem compared to the JG 36 chickpea variety. Under the timely sown condition, at the post-flowering stage, salicylic acid @ 600 ppm, 200 ppm, and thiourea @ 200 ppm enhanced dry matter partitioning towards leaves, secondary branches and main stem. In the seed filling stage, at 75 DAS, water spray enhances dry matter partitioning towards leaves, secondary branches and main stem. In contrast, salicylic acid@400ppm enhances dry matter partitioning towards pods in timely sown condition. Under the timely sown condition, during physiological maturity at 90 DAS, salicylic acid @ 200 ppm and 400 ppm efficiently increased dry matter partitioning towards pods and main stem, respectively (Fig. 4). Pulse being a source-limited crop, seed yield is drastically affected due to a reduction in source size and strength. Therefore, pulse yield under high-temperature stress can be increased by enhancing source strength. In the present study, Plant growth regulator salicylic acid @ 400 ppm proves its potential by enhancing biomass partitioning towards source tissues (leaf), main stem, and secondary branches (Fig. 3). Plant growth regulator salicylic acid @ 400 ppm can mitigate high-temperature stress effect on yield through enhancing biomass partitioning towards source tissue (leaf), main stem, and secondary branches.','-',' Supriya Debnath, R. Shiv Ramakrishnan, Rohit K. Kumawat, Mrunal Ghogare, Parikha P. Singh, Ashish Kumar, Stuti Sharma, Radheshyam Sharma, Preeti S. Nayak, Gyanendra Tiwari and R.K. Samaiya (2022). Plant Growth Regulators Application on Biomass Partitioning in Source and Sink Tissues under Timely Sown and high Temperature Stress Condition in Chickpea. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 14(4a): 318-327.'),(5865,'147','A Comparative Study on Change in Consumption Patterns of Essential Food Items during Pre and post-Covid Periods','S. Shivani and V. Vijaya Lakshmi','58 A Comparative Study on Change in Consumption Patterns of Essential Food Items during Pre and post-Covid Periods S. Shivani.pdf','',1,'After the outbreak of the pandemic, people had undergone severe lockdowns under two phases for over two months. As a result, the general public was forced to change their consumption habits in response to the situation. There have been significant changes in the consumption of essential food items, which are the basic commodities required for survival. To assess these changes, a structured questionnaire was administered to 200 respondents, 100 from rural areas and 100 from urban areas, using a multi-stage sampling technique. According to the findings of this study, people\'s food consumption habits have changed as a result of price increases, accessibility, preference, and nutrition, with respondents in rural areas reporting an increase in consumption of milk, chicken, fresh fruits, dry fruits, and green leafy vegetables based on their perception as healthy foods and availability. Urban respondents reported an increase in milk, chicken, citrus fruits, and vegetable consumption, but a decrease in rice consumption due to physical inactivity and a decrease in green leafy vegetable consumption due to a lack of availability. Despite the change in consumption of these foods, normal consumption of other essential food items was observed with less significant changes when compared to pre-Covid time. The survey was a little difficult to conduct because respondents had difficulty remembering the quantities consumed in 2019 and 2020. It was a bit challenging to conduct the survey as respondents found it difficult in memorizing the quantities of foods consumed during 2019 and 2020.','Consumption pattern, Essential food items, Covid-19, Dietary habits','The present study analyses the changes in the consumption of essential food items that occurred during the lockdown. The results of this study found that people have observed changes in consumption patterns of essential food items during the pandemic. This pattern varied across rural and urban areas as the food availability and people’s perceptions were different in the prescribed regions. Based on influential factors like price, accessibility or availability of preferred foods in the respective region and income of the family, people altered their consumption patterns and behaviour. The change in essential food items was observed more in food items like fresh vegetables (roots and tubers, green leafy vegetables), fruits (citrus fruits, \r\ndry fruits, grapes), chicken and milk which showed an increase in consumption during Covid in both rural and urban areas. However, some respondents had reported that they had willingly decreased the consumption of foods due to lack of appetite due to infection and also due to physical inactivity during the lockdown period.\r\n','-','S. Shivani and V. Vijaya Lakshmi (2022). A Comparative Study on Change in Consumption Patterns of Essential Food Items during Pre and post-Covid Periods. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 14(4a): 328-333.'),(5866,'147','Bio-fortification: A Promising Tool to Combat Malnutrition- A Review','Sandra Jose* and J. Suresh Kumar','59 Bio-fortification A Promising Tool to Combat Malnutrition- A Review Sandra Jose.pdf','',1,'The majority of the staple food crops are poor sources of nutrients, which limits access to diverse diets and other micronutrients for normal human nourishment. Previously, researchers were more focused on obtaining a high yield from crops per unit area to feed the whole world and attain food security. But now more emphasis has been given to research related to the production of quality foods containing nutrients and vitamins to eradicate malnutrition problems, and there comes the importance of fortification in crops. Biofortification is a novel technique that is considered an economical and sustainable method of increasing the concentration and bioavailability of essential elements in edible parts of plants through various means. Several biofortified food crops, mainly grains, legumes, oil seeds, fruits, and vegetables, have been released, and some are under research. It is proven that such crops could provide a sufficient level of nutrients to an undernourished population and alleviate hidden hunger. Despite the high success rate and acceptability of biofortification techniques, there are some limitations to these methods, such as the high initial cost involved in production and the time-consuming regulatory process. Nevertheless, in the coming future, biofortified crops have a great potential to tackle the problems caused by malnutrition.','Biofortification, micronutrients, vitamins, bioavailability','In this paper, we have discussed several applications, benefits, concepts, limitation and future prospects of biofortification in various crops for enhancing the bioavailability of minerals and vitamins in food products and thereby we could reduce health problems caused by malnutrition in developing and under developed countries. It has been accepted that biofortification is an effective and promising agricultural approach for boosting the nutritional status of undernourished people worldwide. Human malnutrition can be addressed with the help of biofortification techniques that include plant breeding, targeted genetic modification, and by using mineral fertilisers. In order to boost the amount and bioavailability of key mineral components in human diets, researches are being conducted worldwide for enrichment of nutrients in agricultural produce, particularly in case of staple cereal crops, millets, pulses and tuber crops. Future prospects for biofortified crops are quite promising since they have the capability to reduce malnutrition among billions of poor people, especially in developing nations.','-','Sandra Jose and J. Suresh Kumar (2022). Bio-fortification: A Promising Tool to Combat Malnutrition- A Review. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 14(4a): 334-342.'),(5867,'147','An Analysis of Constraints in Adoption and Strategies to Promote the Protected Cultivation among the Horticulture Crop Growers','Rajesh C.M. and Shivalingaiah Y.N.','60 An Analysis of Constraints in Adoption and Strategies to Promote the Protected Cultivation among the Horticulture Crop Growers Rajesh CM.pdf','',1,'In order to better understand the barriers to protected cultivation among growers of horticultural crops for the agricultural year 2019–20, a study was undertaken in Karnataka. Survey was conducted by well-designed questionnaires. Protected cultivation offers immense promise and opportunities to Indian farmers and the country to address the challenges of increasing productivity of agriculture and income of farmers. The declining land size of Indian farmers has further necessitated the adoption of these technologies. In this context, the study was conducted to assess performance of growers under protected cultivation and constraints in adoption along with strategies for removal of constraints will result in extending the area under protected cultivation. The perishable nature of vegetables, lack of irrigation water, lack of scientific knowledge of advanced production techniques, lack of planting material availability at the right time, high cost of skilled labour, labour shortages during peak seasons, high initial investment in construction of poly houses, high cost of planting material, market price volatility, and lack of marketing facilities at local locations were the main obstacles for farmers in harnessing this technology. All parties involved concurred that research and development projects were necessary to provide low-cost designs and lower the price of cultivation in polyhouse. Its profitability and sustainability would also depend on how well farmers could adapt this technology to their socioeconomic and agroecological circumstances.','Horticulture, Protected cultivation, Constraints, Suggestions, Karnataka','The adoption of protected cultivation technologies by various categories of farmers (marginal, small, medium and large) needs to be studied carefully and thoroughly. The suitability of technology and the assistance by government in the form of credit and subsidies needs to be scientifically established based on such studies. The studies can be conducted to understand the differential growth and development of protected cultivation technologies in different countries or states especially the ones which have highest area under protected cultivation. The economics of crop production under protected cultivation in different states can be studied. The financial viability and sustainability of protected cultivation technologies on the farms of different categories of farmers without the assistance of subsidy needs critical examination. There is a lot of potential for increasing the area under low cost greenhouses manifold in peri-urban areas of the state as well as country for production of high value vegetables and flowers during off-season to take benefit of the high price of the produce. Similar research studies can be taken up in other states as well as in other districts which are also emerging as hub for protected cultivation.','-','Rajesh C.M. and Shivalingaiah Y.N. (2022). An Analysis of Constraints in Adoption and Strategies to Promote the Protected Cultivation Among the Horticulture Crop Growers. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 14(4a): 343-349.'),(5868,'148','Selection of Blast Resistant Lines from Diverse Germplasm Set of Foxtail Millet','Kiran Makwana, Sushma Tiwari, M.K. Tripathi and Vinod Patel','Selection of Blast Resistant Lines from Diverse Germplasm Set of Foxtail Millet Kiran Makwana.pdf','',1,'The growth and productivity of foxtail millet is affected by many diseases. Among those disease, foxtail millet blast, (Pyricularia setaria) which is also known as leaf spot is responsible for the economic loss up to 40% during congenial weather conditions, and it can be well managed through host plant resistance. The present research work has been carried out to assess blast resistant genotypes of foxtail millet under field conditions, a total ninety-three genotypes where evaluated in three replications at breeding farm, Rajmata Vijayaraje Scindia Agricultural University, Gwalior, Madhya Pradesh, India during Kharif 2020-21 and 2021-22. A wide variation in response to blast where seen, as their PDI varied significantly, none of the entries was found highly susceptible, twenty three genotypes where found highly resistant, as their blast severity PDI was recorded less 11.11%. The maximum PDI range 55.55% to 77.77 % was noted in foxtail- 946, 969, 983, 1000, 1354, 1603. The resistant genotypes identified in the present research may be used further to develop improved genotypes against blast, which can help to boost production and productivity of foxtail millet.','Foxtail millet blast, Pyricularia setaria, PDI, resistant, susceptible','From the present investigation it is concluded that twenty three genotypes where analyzed as highly resistant viz., foxtail-49, 96, 132, 160, 200, 237, 267, 295, 362, 364, 663, 717, 774, 784, 838, 936, 1013, 1037, 1137, 1162, 1665, 1725, Check SIA -3156. ','-','Kiran Makwana, Sushma Tiwari, M.K. Tripathi and Vinod Patel (2023). Selection of Blast Resistant Lines from Diverse Germplasm Set of Foxtail Millet. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 15(1): 01-06.'),(5869,'147','Therapeutic Importance of Cheese: A Review','S.D. Kalyankar, Pragya Bharti, M.R. Patil and A.R. Sarode','61 Therapeutic Importance of Cheese A Review SD Kalyankar.pdf','',1,'Cheese contains a high concentration of essential nutrients relative to its energy level. The fats contribute flavor and texture of cheese. Among the milk proteins, caseins are the main protein in cheese; these are nutritionally rich due to the high supply of essential amino acids, phosphate, and calcium. They also act as a good source of energy in the human diet. One of the most important minerals in cheese is calcium. Besides calcium, cheese is also a good source of phosphorus and zinc, and magnesium is also worth mentioning. Chewing cheese stimulates saliva flow. The alkaline nature of saliva buffers the acids formed in plaque. There is also an increased rate of sugar clearance due to the diluting action of cheese-stimulated saliva. High calcium content in cheese helps to achieve healthier bone density. Consumption of cheese with probiotic bacteria has various health-enhancing effects such as increasing the saliva secretion rate and thereby enhancing oral health by reducing hypo-salivation and mouth dryness. Cheese consumption may be associated with a lower risk for T2D. Further study is needed to understand the links between cheese and its health benefits.','Cheese, Nutritional value, health aspects, probiotic cheese','Cheese has a long history in the human diet to which it contributes a substantial amount of important nutrients; in particular, proteins, bioactive peptides, amino acids, fat, fatty acids, vitamins, and minerals. Cheese can be considered an important component of an equilibrated diet from a nutritional point of view. It is an excellent source of protein and minerals, especially calcium in a highly bioavailable form Research today is concentrated more and more on the influence of nutrition on human health. Calcium, which is present in large quantities in cheese, has been shown to have a positive effect on various disorders (hypertension, osteoporosis, obesity, and dental caries).Besides calcium, other constituents with potentially positive effects on health are found, e.g. bioactive peptides, which also decrease hypertension. In humans, the possible anti-carcinogenic effects of specific lipids (CLA, sphingolipids) have not yet been investigated but animal studies suggest a certain potential. Cheese still has a negative image because of its fatty acid composition. However, research has uncovered even more details, whereby these old convictions have started to waver. Further studies are needed both to confirm earlier results and clarify their mechanism as well as to discover further interesting cheese constituents and their effects. Besides all this scientific research, the inseparable tradition and enjoyment of cheese should not be forgotten. Cheese is more than the sum of its constituents. ','-','S.D. Kalyankar, Pragya Bharti, M.R. Patil and A.R. Sarode (2022). Therapeutic Importance of Cheese: A Review. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 14(4a): 350-359.'),(5870,'147','Functional, Nutritional and Thermal properties of Extruded Browntop Millet Flours','K. Santhi Sirisha, S. Suchiritha Devi, T. Supraja, R. Neela Rani and D. Kalpana','62 Functional, Nutritional and Thermal properties of Extruded Browntop Millet Flours K Santhi Sirisha.pdf','',1,'Millets would be widely used if processing were improved and if sufficient good quality flour were made available to meet the demand. Quality flour production suitable to various products could be possible when there is complete evaluation of millet flours using different processing techniques hence the present study focused on evaluating the impact of extrusion cooking on the functional, nutritional, thermal characteristics and shelf life of browntop millet flour. Whole and dehulled browntop millet grits were extruded at 140, 150°C respectively and made into flour for further analysis following standard procedures. The swelling power of analysed samples ranged from 203.0±0.6 to 621.3±0.9 with DBF (Dehulled Browntop millet Flour) being the least and DEBF the highest. Significant improvement upon extrusion was observed for WAC%, WHC%, OAC% and ORC%. Moisture content varied from 7.43±0.27 to 8.99±0.06. Significant reduction in the moisture content upon extrusion was noted but no great enhancement in the protein content. The ash content of the analysed flours ranged from 2.16±0.17% in EWBF to 5.43±0.27% in WBF. Decrease in the ash content was found in extruded samples. Fat content in the analysed samples was found to be in the range of 3.78±0.12% in EWBF to 6.27±0.15% in DBF, reduction in the fat content was observed due to extrusion. Carbohydrate content and calorific values were greater in the extruded browntop millet flour than native flours. Increase in the gelatinization temperatures (Onset To (ºC), Peak Tp (ºC), Conclusion Tc (ºC)) and pasting temperature, pasting viscosity was observed in extruded browntop millet flours. The storage (G’) and loss modulus (G”) were reduced due to extrusion in whole and dehulled samples. Shelf life study indicated that moisture, water activity, TMC and TBC of the analysed samples were within the acceptable range. The results highlight the potential use of extrusion cooking to develop quality browntop millet flour with optimal nutritional composition, functional and thermal properties with good keeping quality.','Browntop millet, extrusion, functional properties, nutritional properties, thermal properties','From the current study it can be concluded that utilization of either extruded whole or dehulled browntop flours are beneficial, however, a relative benefit is observed in extruded flours in terms of higher nutrients, better functional and thermal properties with good keeping quality.','-','K. Santhi Sirisha, S. Suchiritha Devi, T. Supraja, R. Neela Rani and D. Kalpana (2022). Functional, Nutritional and Thermal properties of Extruded Browntop Millet Flours. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 14(4a): 360-366.'),(5871,'148','Performance of Strawberry (Fragaria × ananassa Duch.) as influenced by Humic Acid and Water Soluble Fertilizers on Vegetative Parameters under Naturally Ventilated Polyhouse','Sampada Mareguddikar, Manjunath Rathod, Priyanka R. and Madaiah D.','Performance of Strawberry _Fragaria x ananassa Duch._ as influenced by Humic Acid and Water Soluble Fertilizers on Vegetative Parameters under Naturally Ventilated Polyhouse Sampada Mareguddikar.pdf','',1,'Application of nutrients through soil is not an effective method. So, the alternative approach to overcome the problem of ineffective fertilizer nutrient supply. These unpredicted challenges urge the adoption of novel and resource efficient stratagies to stepping out of the growth and yield parameters. The present study was undertaken to evaluate performance of strawberry as influenced by humic acid and water soluble fertilizers on growth under naturally ventilated polyhouse. The study was made during 2017-18 with completely randomised design by taking fourteen treatments replicated thrice. The results promulgated that application of 100 % RDF through soil along with foliar application of humic acid (2%) + 19:19:19 (1%) + potassium nitrate (1%) recorded significantly highest plant height per plant (33.03 cm), trifoliate leaves per plant (32.32), crowns per plant (5.75), Runners per plant (2.02), plant spread of 46.61 and 44.50 cm North-south and east-west respectively. Leaf area (176.86 cm2), leaf area index (1.89) plant dry weight at harvest (30.29g/plant), total Chlorophyll content of leaves (2.44 mg/g of fresh weight), yield per plot (4.55 kg) followed by application of 75% RDF through soil along with foliar application of humic acid (2%) + 19:19:19 (1%) + potassium nitrate (1%).','Strawberry, humic acid, water soluble fertilizers, growth','On the basis of results obtained in the present investigation, it can be concluded that application of 100 % RDF + HA (2%) + 19:19:19 (1%) KNO3 (1%) through foliar application or else 75 % RDF + HA (2%) + 19:19:19 (1%) + KNO3 (1%) through foliar application at 45, 60 and 75 days after planting showed promising results with respect to growth and yield parameters.','-','Sampada Mareguddikar, Manjunath Rathod, Priyanka R. and Madaiah D. (2023). Performance of Strawberry (Fragaria × ananassa Duch.) as influenced by Humic Acid and Water Soluble Fertilizers on Vegetative Parameters under Naturally Ventilated Polyhouse. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 15(1): 07-13.'),(5872,'147','Morphological Characterization of Tomato Genotypes (Solanum lycopersicum L.) under Moisture Stress conditions','Priyamvada Mishra, Aniruddh Yadav, Bhagyashree Paul, Rupesh Kumar and Anil Sirohi','63 Morphological Characterization of Tomato Genotypes _Solanum lycopersicum L._ under Moisture Stress conditions Priyamvada Mishra.pdf','',1,'Abiotic stressors like drought, salt, or temperature have a significant impact on plant development. One of the most significant global constraints on agricultural crop output, and vegetable production in particular, is drought. In most cases, yield is decreased by drought stress during vegetative or early reproductive development by lowering the quantity, size, and quality of seeds. There were one treatment i.e. water hold capacity for 7 days. A pot experiment was carried out to examine the traits of Plant height, Number of Clusters per plant, Number of flowers per clusters, Number of fruits per plant, Average fruits weight, and Yield per plant for seven tomato genotypes under drought stress conditions. Drought-stressed plants age more slowly, produce smaller canopies, and have a smaller canopy than irrigated crops. During a drought, an excess of reactive oxygen species (ROS) is created, and this ROS overproduction results in oxidative damage and, ultimately, cell death. A growth characteristic of plants under drought stress was a reduction in height. Action-666 saw the least reduction in plant height (50.6cm) whereas Cherry Tomato experienced the biggest (76cm). The yield is directly correlated with the number of flower clusters per plant, the number of flowers per cluster, and the number of fruits per plant. All morphological characteristics were shown to be deteriorating across all genotypes. However, the genotype Action-666 exhibited very little change in these parameters under conditions of induced drought stress.','Tomato, Drought, Stress, Growth, Yield and Characterization','The morphological characteristics of tomato genotypes under control and drought stress revealed substantial variance in all tomato genotypes. Different tomato genotypes demonstrated a reduction in growth characteristic, i.e. plant height, when subjected to drought stress. The least plant height decrease detected in Action-666 (50.6cm) and the largest plant height reduction observed in Cherry Tomato (76cm). The amount of flower clusters per plant, flowers per cluster, and fruits per plant are all strongly connected to output, making them economically significant characteristics. In all genotypes, all morphological features were found to be declining. However, under forced drought stress circumstances, the genotypes Action-666 demonstrated extremely low levels of decrease in these metrics.','-','Priyamvada Mishra, Aniruddh Yadav, Bhagyashree Paul, Rupesh Kumar and Anil Sirohi (2022). Morphological Characterization of Tomato Genotypes (Solanum lycopersicum L.) under Moisture Stress conditions. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 14(4a): 367-372.'),(5873,'147','Scientometric Analysis of Plant Nematology Research Output in the Global Context','P. Senthilkumar and M. Sankar','64 Scientometric Analysis of Plant Nematology Research Output in the Global Context P. Senthilkumar.pdf','',1,'The present study is about an analysis which reveals the scientometric analysis of plant Nemotology research publications. It indicates the qualitative and quantitative analysis description and techniques which has been applied. The study period has twenty years from the year 2002 to 2021. The plant Nemotology research extracted the Web of Science database which has been taken for the analysis and also to motivate the future researches in Plant nematological aspects. The scientometric analysis research to find out the various subjects and disciplines also measured in the further research It will more helpful for the researchers community.','Scientometric, Plant Nematology, Global Context','It is also found in the year-wise analysis, which shows increasing and decreasing trends during the study period of Plant Nematology Research publications. The Scientometrics study on plant nematology and characteristics has been found to be extremely useful in understanding communication and knowledge patterns within the field study\'s chosen field. These cover many great scientific discoveries and technological achievements in several fields, including vast areas of agriculture and plant nematology. It’s also useful for the organisation of research and development work.','-','P. Senthilkumar and M. Sankar (2022). Scientometric Analysis of Plant Nematology Research Output in the Global Context. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 14(4a): 373-378.'),(5874,'147','Studies on Genetic Variability Parameters for Yield, Quality and nutritional Traits in Basmati and Aromatic Rice (Oryza sativa L.)','Sudhakar Reddy Basu, D.C. Baskheti, Indra Deo, M.K. Nautiyal, Satvinder Singh and Nidhi Sharma ','65 Studies on Genetic Variability Parameters for Yield, Quality and nutritional Traits in Basmati and Aromatic Rice _Oryza sativa L._ Sudhakar Reddy Basu.pdf','',1,'The present investigation was carried out to study genetic variability in thirty seven basmati and aromatic rice genotypes for sixteen characters which include yield, quality and nutritional traits. Analysis of variance (ANOVA) revealed significant differences among the genotypes for all the studied characteristics. Grain yield per plant, alkali spreading value, number of tillers per plant, iron content, length/breath ratio, zinc content, plant height, 1000 grain weight, grain length, kernel length had moderate to high phenotypic coefficients of variation (PCV) and genotypic coefficients of variation (GCV) estimates suggesting that these traits are under the influence of genetic control and less affected by the environment. In the present study, all the characters exhibited a high degree of heritability and high genetic advance indicating the presence of additive gene effect and hence selection based on phenotypic performance for these traits would be effective. Grain yield per plant, number of tillers per plant, iron content, zinc content, plant height, kernel length are important characters having high heritability, genetic advance as well as high coefficient of variation which should be considered while selecting for high yield. The results indicate the lesser influence of environment in expression of these traits and prevalence of additive gene action in their inheritance hence, amenable of simple selection.','Basmati rice, GCV, PCV, genetic advance, heritability, Aromatic rice','From the present study, it is evident that genotypes studied may provide good source of material for further breeding programme. Therefore, the information on the genetic parameters such as coefficient of variation, heritability, genetic advance can help the breeder to evolve suitable basmati quality and nutritional cultivars. On the basis of results summarized above, it is concluded that the great deal of variability for the important characters studied even in highly selected lines under the present investigation. High heritability coupled with high genetic advance was observed for the characters alkali spreading value, number of tillers per plant, length/ breath ratio, iron content, grain yield per plant, zinc content, plant height, kernel length, grain breath and grain length indicated their due importance as the indicator characters and selection for these traits may be effective.','-','Sudhakar Reddy Basu, D.C. Baskheti, Indra Deo, M.K. Nautiyal, Satvinder Singh and Nidhi Sharma (2022). Studies on Genetic Variability Parameters for Yield, Quality and nutritional Traits in Basmati and Aromatic Rice (Oryza sativa L.). Biological Forum – An International Journal, 14(4a): 379-384.'),(5875,'147','Validation of Soil Test and Yield Target based Fertilizer Prescription Equation for Sugarcane on Vertisols of Northern Telangana Zone','T. Prabhakar Reddy, T. Srijaya, A. Madhavi, Firdoz Sahana, D. Vijaya Lakshmi and K. Ravindhar','66 Validation of Soil Test and Yield Target based Fertilizer Prescription Equation for Sugarcane on Vertisols of Northern Telangana Zone T. Prabhakar Reddy.pdf','',1,'A soil test-based fertilizer prescription minimises over- or under-application of fertilizer inputs, improving crop production and fertilizer use effectiveness. By conducting field experiments of the sugarcane plant crop for three years between 2017–18 and 2019–20 on Vertisols at Regional Sugarcane and Rice Research Station, Rudrur, Nizamabad district, Telangana state, the validity of the soil test crop response (STCR) equation was examined. For a yield target of 110 t ha-1, the treatments comprise farmers\' fertilizer practises, RDF, and STCR-based fertilizer recommendations. Based on the initial soil test results of the individual locations, the N, P, and K fertilizers for the yield target were computed. According to the findings, STCR (110 t ha-1) increased yield on average by 1.0% above blanket (100% RDF) and 3.7% over farmer\'s practise. The findings showed that the intended yield was attained by 5% after fertilizer application to the sugarcane crop in accordance with the yield target of 110 t ha-1. A net reduction in the amount of P2O5 and K2O fertilizers needed to achieve the current recommended dose of 41 kg and 37 kg ha-1, respectively, and a saving of Rs. 2,275 in fertilizer costs per application per year. The STCR recommendations\' (2.30) stronger benefit-to-cost ratio compared to those for farmers\' practises (2.18). The sugarcane plant crop\'s fertilizer prescription equation was created, and it was determined to be suitable for achieving the target sugarcane yield of 110 t ha-1.','Field trails, STCR equation, sugarcane plant crop, validation','The formulae for recommending fertilizer doses for sugarcane on vertisols were validated by the fact that the percentage of the planned yield was achieved with a variance of less than 5%. The development and maintenance of soil fertility as a result of the IPNS fertilizer recommendation based on soil test results were indicated by the post-harvest soil available N, P, and K status. For the Vertisols of the Nizamabad District to achieve a yield target of 110 t ha-1, the STCR equation (FN=5.40 T-1.42 SN; FP2O5=1.80 T-4.37 SP; FK2O=1.70 T-0.33 SK) developed for sugarcane plant crop can be advised, and it can be extrapolated to other districts of Telangana on similar and related soil types.','-','T. Prabhakar Reddy, T. Srijaya, A. Madhavi, Firdoz Sahana, D.Vijaya Lakshmi and K. Ravindhar (2022). Validation of Soil Test and Yield Target Based Fertilizer Prescription Equation for Sugarcane on Vertisols of Northern Telangana Zone. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 14(4a): 385-389.'),(5876,'147','Comparative Efficacy of Evaporative Cooling Pad and Fogger System on Growth Performance of Broiler Chicken in Summer Season','Vipin Chandra, Navav Singh, Sanjita Sharma, Abhishek Saini, Sunil Kumar Meena, Mukesh Kumar Gahan and Ashok Baindha','67 Comparative Efficacy of Evaporative Cooling Pad and Fogger System on Growth Performance of Broiler Chicken in Summer SeasonVipin Chandra.pdf','',1,'High environmental temperature increases mortality of poultry due to inhibition of immune responses and the maintenance of production, reproduction and economy of the poultry farm requires modification of the surrounding environment, ventilation system, bird density, and nutritional management to reduce heat stress in poultry. This study used 108-days old, commercial broiler chicks (VenCobb strain). These birds were randomly divided into three treatment groups i.e., T0, T1 and T2 comprising of 60 birds in each treatment with a total of 180 birds. Each treatment was further divided into three replications with 20 birds in each. These chicks were kept in floor pens, and water and feed were provided ad libitum throughout the experimental period of 42 days. The control (T0) had pen without a cooling device, while other treatment groups i.e., T1 and T2 were having an evaporative cooling pad and fogger systems, respectively. This study found highly significant effects of cooling devices on different growth parameters like body weight, body weight gain, and feed consumption whereas the feed conversion ratio was found non-significant during 3rd, 4th, 5th and 6th weeks of age. The result of different growth parameters such as weekly body weight and body weight gain, weekly feed consumption, weekly feed conversion ratio (FCR), was found better in T1 group as compared to T0 and T2 groups. The result of shed microclimate indicates that ambient temperature and temperature humidity index (THI) in control (T0) were highly significant (p≤0.01) thanT1 and T2 groups. From this study, it can be concluded that the evaporative cooling pad and fogger system ensures significant improvement in micro-climate of shed, and better growth performance of broilers.','Broiler, Heat stress, Evaporative cooling pad, Fogger system','Heat stress is one of the most challenging environmental conditions which have an adverse effect on the poultry industry. Broiler chickens are sensitive to heat stress, high ambient temperature, and relative humidity and these are major environmental stressors that influence the performance of broilers while the ideal environmental temperature enhanced the production. The evaporative cooling pad system and fogger system provide comfortable microenvironment conditions to broilers leads to enhanced feeding efficiency and which in turn improved growth performance of broilers. Since poultry industry is rapidly growing in Rajasthan, the farmers are suggested to use these devices during the peak summer months to sustain the industry.','-','Vipin Chandra, Navav Singh, Sanjita Sharma, Abhishek Saini, Sunil Kumar Meena, Mukesh Kumar Gahan and Ashok Baindha (2022). Comparative Efficacy of Evaporative Cooling Pad and Fogger System on Growth Performance of Broiler Chicken in Summer Season. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 14(4a): 390-397.'),(5877,'147','Influence of Various Plant Growth Regulators on Growth and Yield of Garlic (Allium sativum L.) under Terai Region of West Bengal','Seelothu Rakesh, P.S. Medda, Babli Dutta, Arunava Ghosh and Surajit Khalko','68 Influence of Various Plant Growth Regulators on Growth and Yield of Garlic _Allium sativum L._ under Terai Region of West Bengal Seelothu Rakesh.pdf','',1,'The investigation was carried out on influence of various plant growth regulators on growth and yield of garlic (Allium sativum L.) in Rabi season during 2019-2020 and 2020-2021 in Terai zone of West Bengal. The PGRs namely- GA3 (50, 100 and 150ppm), NAA (50, 100 and 200ppm) and Kinetin (10, 20 and 40ppm) were used. The experiment laid out in Randomized Block Design comprising of ten treatments and replicated thrice. By using the chemical nutrients high cost of production therefore, the role of different growth regulators on growth and yield of crop investigated. The results obtained that Maximum plant height (80.50cm), leaf length (50.05cm), number of leaves (9.30), neck thickness (13.46mm) and number of roots per plant (74.26), maximum polar and equatorial diameter (3.37 and 4.25cm) with heavier cloves (13.70 g), highest number of cloves per bulb (27.50), fresh and dry weight of cloves (13.70g and 8.31g), higher total biomass yield (4.0kg) and plot yield of bulb (2.85kg) with a projected yield of (9.96 tons) of bulb per ha was registered under GA3 @ 50 ppm.','Garlic, GA3, NAA, Kinetin, growth and yield','In the present investigation, foliar application of plant growth regulators boosted the growth and yield of garlic and based on the current experimental results, it may be concluded that foliar application of GA3 @ 50 ppm proved the best over other treatments of plant growth regulators followed by treatment with Kinetin @ 40 ppm.','-','Seelothu Rakesh, P.S. Medda, Babli Dutta, Arunava Ghosh and Surajit Khalko (2022). Influence of Various Plant Growth Regulators on Growth and Yield of Garlic (Allium sativum L.) under Terai Region of West Bengal. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 14(4a): 398-404.'),(5878,'147','Evaluation of Antifungal Activity of Supercritical Fluid Extraction of Ailanthus excelsa against Powdery Mildew of Sunflower','Kavyasri M., Amaresh Y.S., Ashwathanarayana D.S., Raghavendra B.T. and Sharanagoudar Hiregoudar','69 Evaluation of Antifungal Activity of Supercritical Fluid Extraction of Ailanthus excelsa against Powdery Mildew of Sunflower Kavyasri M.pdf','',1,'ontinuous usage of agrochemicals for the management of fungal diseases of plants has lead to the development of resistance towards the chemicals by fungi and ecosystem is under the treat. Hence biological methods are preferred with some advancements. Ailanthus excelsa which is usually called as tree of heaven is known to possess anti- fungal activity. The bio constituents such as flavonoids and phenols which are present in the leaves of Ailanthus excelsa is known to possess anti- bacterial, anti- fungal properties. The experiment was conducted to study the fungicidal activity of Ailanthus excelsa against powdery mildew of sunflower. For evaluating its activity against powdery mildew spore germination technique was followed for different concentrations of leaf extract of Ailanthus excelsa. Results revealed that maximum inhibition of spore germination of 98.37 per cent was observed in 10 per cent concentration which was on par with 9 per cent concentration of leaf extract of Ailanthus excelsa and the minimum inhibition of spore germination was observed at 1 per cent (28.78%) concentration in case of powdery mildew caused by Golovinomyces cichoracearum. Under field conditions, PDI of 7.41 per cent was observed after second spray of SFE of Ailanthus excelsa whereas, 9 per cent of SFE of Ailanthus excelsa showed 8.15 per cent of PDI which was on par with 10 per cent concentration of SFE of Ailanthus excelsa. At 1 per cent concentration of SFE of Ailanthus excelsa showed 50.71 per cent of PDI after second spray. The yield was higher at 10 per cent concentration of SFE of Ailanthus excelsa i.e, 8.68 q ha-1.','Antifungal activity, Supercritical Fluid Extract, Ailanthus excelsa, Powdery mildew of sunflower','With the increase in concentration of the supercritical fluid extract of Ailanthus excelsa, the inhibition of spore germination of Golovinomyces cichoracearum increased and also the per cent disease index of disease decreased. Also with the increase in concentration, there will not be any phytotoxic effect and yield increases with increase in concentration of supercritical fluid extract of Ailanthus excelsa. ','-','Kavyasri M., Amaresh Y.S., Ashwathanarayana D.S., Raghavendra B.T. and Sharanagoudar Hiregoudar (2022). Evaluation of Antifungal Activity of Supercritical Fluid Extraction of Ailanthus excelsa against Powdery Mildew of Sunflower. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 14(4a): 405-409.'),(5879,'147','Leclercia adecarboxylata - A Putative PGP Phytohormone Producing Endophytic Bacterial Isolate Molecular characterization of Leclercia adecarboxylata','Nismal Aswin A. and K. Sharan','70 Leclercia adecarboxylata - A Putative PGP Phytohormone Producing Endophytic Bacterial Isolate Molecular characterization of Leclercia adecarboxylata Nismal Aswin A.pdf','',1,'Endophytic bacteria that promote the plant growth and development have been isolated from rice apoplastic fluid. The rice leaf apoplast is an intracellular compartment that exists outside the plasma membrane and contains the plant\'s cell wall. Nutrient transport, cell signalling, water absorption, export, and plant endophytic interactions are all the significant functions of the apoplast. Endophytic bacteria have the capacity to improve the plant development and nutrient acquisition by fixing atmospheric nitrogen, solubilizing phosphorus, potassium, zinc, and producing phytohormones such as IAA, gibberellic acid, and siderophore in subsistent quantities. Nine distinct endophytic bacterial isolates were isolated from varied selected locations, and examined based on morphological and biochemical methods. Among the nine isolates, RAF-2 is a distinct endophytic bacteria has been characterized at molecular level sequencing and identified as Leclercia adecarboxylata (OM169350), and the pioneering work reported on rice. It has been found as the significant phytohormone producer includes IAA (29.77 µg 25 mL-1), GA3 (6.02 µg 25 mL-1), and has an excellent ACC deaminase activity (19.33 µmol α-Kβ mg-1 protein-1 h-1) respectively. RAF-2 (Leclercia adecarboxylata) (OM169350) isolated from rice apoplastic fluid was performed as the best in producing phytohormones such as IAA, GA3, and has an excellent ACC deaminase activity, and this could be recommended as an effective phytohormone producer for the sustainable production of crops. ','Apoplastic fluid, Endophytic bacteria, Plant growth promoting endophytes, Leclercia adecarboxylata, ACC deaminase activity','Plant growth promoting endophytic bacterial isolates viz., Azospirillium, Bacillus, Pseudomonas, Leclercia, Paenibacillus, Methylobacterium were isolated from rice leaves and examined through Morphological and biochemical characterizing methods. in vitro plant growth promoting activity were assessed for its efficiency to produce IAA, GA3, and analysis of ACC deaminase activity, From the following studies, it could be concluded that among the different bacterial endophytes, RAF-2 (Leclercia adecarboxylata) (OM169350) isolated from rice apoplastic fluid was performed as the best in producing phytohormones such as IAA, GA3, and has an excellent ACC deaminase activity, and this could be recommended as an effective phytohormone producer for the sustainable production of crops. ','-','Nismal Aswin A. and K. Sharan (2022). Leclercia adecarboxylata - A Putative PGP Phytohormone Producing Endophytic Bacterial Isolate Molecular characterization of Leclercia adecarboxylata. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 14(4a): 410-417.'),(5880,'147','Gamma Radiations Effect on the Germination and Survival of Sesame in M1 Generation','Pallavi Sasane, E.R. Vaidya, Y.C. Raut, D.T. Deshmukh, S.S. Gomashe, S.K. Burghate, R.D. Walke and Aditi Rajane','71 Gamma Radiations Effect on the Germination and Survival of Sesame in M1 Generation Pallavi Sasane.pdf','',1,'The seeds of the two genotypes, AKT-64 and N-8, were exposed to four doses of gamma radiation at BARC, Trombay, Mumbai, to study the impact of mutagenesis on germination and growth. About 100 seeds from each dose and a control were placed in a lab for germination. The percent germination, root length (cm), and shoot length were measured (cm). Correspondingly, treated seeds per dose were grown at the Instructional Farm of Department of Agricultural Botany, Dr. Panjabrao Deshmukh Krishi Vidyapeeth, Akola, in a randomised block design with five replications. The observations regarding plant survival, percent germination, and reduction in plant survival compared to control were observed. The seed germination and plant survival parameters for all the doses differed significantly, indicating that there was enough variation for these parameters, according to the analysis of variance in both genotypes. In laboratory condition, in both genotypes observed a progressive decrease in germination percentage, shoot length, and root length with increasing gamma ray doses. Under field conditions, in both the genotypes the maximum reduction in germination percentage was found at 700Gy (35.78% in AKT-64 and 28.44% in N-8). The LD50 was observed at 600Gy dose for AKT-64 genotype and at 500Gy dose for N-8 genotype. The highest reduction in plant survival in M1 generation was found at 700Gy dose (32.79% in AKT-64 and 26.45% in N-8) compared to both the controls. In general, a dose-dependent relationship between biological damage (%) and the type of mutagen used was observed. All biological parameters were significantly reduced by higher gamma radiation doses.','Gamma rays, Sesame, Mutagenesis, germination percentage, LD50','In the current study, it was found that increasing doses of gamma rays inhibited the seed germination and shoot and root lengths. However, the lower doses of mutagens used in this study can be effectively used to increase genetic variability. The root length showed a greater retardation than the shoot length, these showed that root system seems to be comparatively more sensitive to gamma-ray. In laboratory conditions, gamma ray doses were showed reduced seed germination percentage, seedling height (root and shoot length), and seed vigour index. On the field condition, higher doses than smaller doses had more effect on germination percentage, plant survival, and plant survival over control. The majority of the characteristics of the sesame crop plant were therefore shown to be very susceptible to gamma ray doses.','-','Pallavi Sasane, E.R. Vaidya, Y.C. Raut, D.T. Deshmukh, S.S. Gomashe, S.K. Burghate, R.D. Walke and Aditi Rajane (2022). Gamma Radiation\'s Effect on the Germination and Survival of Sesame in M1 Generation. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 14(4a): 419-422.'),(5881,'147','Performance of Blackgram as influenced by Soil and Foliar Application of Macro and Micro Nutrients on Plant Growth Parameters','K. Sravani Reddy, Alka Arya, U. Paarthiban and Amitesh Das','72-Performance-of-Blackgram-as-influenced-by-Soil-and-Foliar-Application-of-Macro-and-Micro-Nutrients-on-Plant-Growth-Parameters-K-Sravani-Reddy.pdf','',1,'The present investigation on performance of black gram as influenced by soil and foliar application of nutrients on plant growth parameters was conducted in clay loam soil at our college farm, Alpine Institute of Technology, Premnagar, Dehradun (Affiliated to Hemvati Nandan Bahuguna Garhwal University, Srinagar Uttarakhand) during summer season of 2021. The trail was conducted in RBD design with three replications consisting of 8 treatments. The results revealed that, among the various treatments, maximum plant height and number of branches per plant were recorded in T6 at 30, 45,60 and at harvest (16.88 cm, 36.43cm, 52.75 cm and 64.13cm) and (4.19, 5.23, 7.66 and 8.88) respectively.','Blackgram, macro and micronutrients, plant height and number of braches per plant','It was evident that, field emergence was not significantly influenced by combined application of macro and micro nutrients, but it was showed significant influence on plant height and number of branches plant-1 of blackgram in sandy loam soils of Dehradun.','-','K. Sravani Reddy, Alka Arya, U. Paarthiban and Amitesh Das (2022). Performance of Blackgram as influenced by Soil and Foliar Application of Macro and Micro Nutrients on Plant Growth Parameters. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 14(4a): 423-427.'),(5882,'147','Effect of Phosphorus on Growth, Yield and Quality of Knol-khol (Brassica oleracea var. gongylodes L.) under Semi arid Plains of Rajasthan','V. Ramesh Naik, L.N. Bairwa and B. Srinivasulu','73-Effect-of-Phosphorus-on-Growth,-Yield-and-Quality-of-Knol-khol-(Brassica-oleracea-var.-gongylodes-L.)-under-Semi-arid-Plains-of-Rajasthan-B.-Srinivasulu.pdf','',1,'A field experiment is conducted on knol-khol to find out the effect of phosphorous at different doses on various growth, yield and quality traits. The study revealed that the application of phosphorus showed an increase in all the 16 traits studied but highest increase was observed at 90 kg phosphorus per ha over the control. Maximum increase was observed in the phosphorus content in leaves (121.80%) followed by presence of phosphorus in the knob (88.99%), nitrogen in the leaves (67.72 %), nitrogen in the knob (77.35%) followed by zinc in the leaves (46.97 %), chlorophyll content in leaves (44.80%), plant height (40.23 %) and zinc in the knob (37.67 %) at 90 Kg per hectare. A highly positive significant correlation was found between chlorophyll, total soluble sugars, protein nitrogen in leaf, nitrogen in knob, phosphorus in leaf, phosphorus in knob, zinc in leaf, and zinc in knob. The profound effect of phosphorus fertilizer on growth attributes increase metabolic activities leads to increase knob diameter, weight and yield per hectare are discussed in the paper.','Plant height, chlorophyll content in leaves, knob diameter, knob weight, yield, TSS and protein content of knob','On the basis of one year field experimental results it was concluded that the effect of phosphorus was clearly indicating the increased growth, yield and quality on knol-khol. The maximum growth, yield and quality attributes were recorded at 90 kg phosphorus per ha but it was found at par with 60 kg phosphorus, except nitrogen and zinc content in knob while the minimum growth, yield and quality attributes were noticed in the control. The soil application of phosphorus was significantly affected the net returns and benefit cost ratio of knol-khol. ','-','V. Ramesh Naik, L.N. Bairwa and B. Srinivasulu (2022). Effect of Phosphorus on Growth, Yield and Quality of Knol-khol (Brassica oleracea var. gongylodes L.) under Semi arid Plains of Rajasthan. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 14(4a): 428-431.'),(5883,'147','Impact of Intercropping on Agronomic Traits of Irrigated Rice','Santram Chouriya, B.M. Maurya, K.K. Deshmukh, Raghuraj K. Tiwari, G.K. Rana and J. Pandey ','74-Impact-of-Intercropping-on-Agronomic-Traits-of-Irrigated-Rice-G-K-Rana.pdf','',1,'Monocropping is the practise of cultivating the same crop every year which affects production and soil quality because of this, a stationary field experiment was conducted. Ten cropping systems were tested during the Kharif season in a field experiment at JNKVV, Rewa (Madhya Pradesh). The soil had texture silty clay loam, a pH of 7.25, medium levels of organic carbon (0.56%), moderate levels of nitrogen (224 kg/ha), phosphorus (8.20 kg/ha) and high levels of K (315 kg/ha) that was readily available. The most sound grains possible/ panicle were noted in garlic-rice followed by berseem-rice and chickpea-rice cropping systems. Rice produced the most grains 52.76 q/ha in berseem-rice followed by 52.37q/ha potato-wheat-rice and these farming techniques provided 12.5 % to 16.13 % higher grain yield over existing wheat-rice system. These cropping systems availed 15.45 % to 15.97 % higher gross return and 27.1 % to 29.48 % higher net return than existing wheat-rice system. The B: C ratio 2.46 was most in mustard-green manure-rice cropping system followed by 2.42 in potato-wheat-rice and 2.41 in berseem-rice cropping system.','Cropping Systems, B: C Ratio, Gross Return and Harvest index','The rice crop performed superior in berseem-rice, potato-wheat-rice, mustard-green manure-rice and garlic-rice cropping system. These cropping systems provided better growth yield contributing characters and increased the yield of rice by 12.5 % to 16.13 % higher as compared to existing wheat-rice cropping system. Berseem-rice was the best cropping system out of all the others. Additionally, rice crop performed better in potato-wheat-rice system as compared to existing system. Mustard-green manure-rice cropping system gave most net return and benefit cost ratio proceeded by potato-wheat-rice and berseem-rice. The rice crop did better under residual effect of this cropping pattern as compared to existing wheat-rice system.','-','Santram Chouriya, B.M. Maurya, K.K. Deshmukh, Raghuraj K. Tiwari, G.K. Rana and J. Pandey (2022). Impact of Intercropping on Agronomic Traits of Irrigated Rice. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 14(4a): 432-437.'),(5884,'147','A Perceptual Study of Young Farming Community towards Agripreneurship in District Solan, Himachal Pradesh','Abhishek and Krishan Kumar Raina','75-A-Perceptual-Study-of-Young-Farming-Community-towards-Agripreneurship-in-District-Solan,-Himachal-Pradesh-Abhishek.pdf','',1,'The proposed study has been taken mainly based on a perceptual study of young farming community towards agripreneurship in district Solan (H.P.). This study was initiated with the larger focused on existence scenario of agripreneurship in Himachal Pradesh. The study was conducted in 2021-2022. This research identified the youth interest to become agriprenurs. In this research, the attitude and perception of the rural youth towards agripreneurship has been studied which include; the socio-demographic characteristics of rural youth in the region, level of attitude of the rural youth towards agripreneurship. The sample size of present study has been 120 respondents. The study concluded that Government must initiate efforts to improve the existing facilities and infrastructure and provide proper platform to ease training programs during graduation for establishing Agri-startups and also promoting strategies for agriprenurship largely with the help of using mass media and also social media at large, as it could persuade and make aware the large group of beneficiaries. The study\'s findings show that young people had favourable economic opinions on the agricultural industry. These attitudes, along with the availability of secondary school agricultural education and a sizable quantity of financial support, had a beneficial impact on their intents to engage in agripreneurship. As a result, a study was done to determine how young farmers see entrepreneurship in relation to socioeconomic characteristics, to identify the major obstacles to agripreneurial growth among young farmers, and to provide policy measures.','Agripreneurship, Agriprenurs, Agri-startups, Farming Community, group of beneficiaries','The findings of the study on the basis of respondent’s intention observed that there are fewer intentions to start their own business in agriculture and there are more farmers agreed from the job giver, not job seeker. Moreover, choosing agripreneure as a career has less intention, furthermore largely respondents put every efforts to start their own business in agripreneurship While analyzing the intentions of respondents towards Agri-startup it was noted that largely respondents have inclination for Agri-startup on account of their liking to put every effort to start their own business. As far as the perception towards agriprepreneurship it was observed that largely respondents were agreed with schemes and programmes are beneficial for them, furthermore the availability of schemes and programmed also useful, moreover there should be proper platforms where they get information regarding the schemes and programmes and this is easy way to conduct information. Having advantage from the available schemes and programmes is not easy task for the framers as there is no any proper guidance for them regarding the schemes and programmed related agripreneurship. While measuring the various constraints and challenges faced by young farmers, the analytical results clearly states that lack of financial sources is major constraints and creating initial investment is major challenge that come in the path of respondents to establish agri-startup, furthermore risk of failure as they have lack of funding, retaining and inadequate management system, a faulty infrastructure and unsuccessful marketing initiatives, there should be need of family support, they have lack of information regarding their business as there should be need of training programmes and give them proper knowledge. It was clearly indicated that they had lack of information to start their own business and they have not proper startup plan but initially investment stops them to start an Agri-startup. Respondents also agreed with lack of knowledge about agriculture and there is need to strengthen financial system though which young farmers would get finance in easily.\r\nWhile measuring the numerous facilities and infrastructure improvisation, analytical results clearly indicated that there should be training program for agripreneurship during graduation and there should be constant efforts to be initiated for increasing awareness program for agripreneurs. Moreover, there should be the establishment of proper centre for guidance related to Agri-startups while subsidy schemes for raw material and inputs may also be rationalized for its maximum reach. Furthermore, Government must initiate efforts to improve the existing facilities and infrastructure and provide proper platform for providing ease to provide training programs during graduation for establishing startups.\r\n','-','Abhishek and Krishan Kumar Raina (2022). A Perceptual Study of Young Farming Community towards Agripreneurship in District Solan, Himachal Pradesh. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 14(4a): 438-444'),(5885,'147','Major Insect Pests and their Natural Enemy Biodiversity in Ecological Engineering Groundnut (Arachis hypogaea L.) Crop','E. Sree Latha, U. Sai Prasoona and S. Jesu Rajan','76-Major-Insect-Pests-and-their-Natural-Enemy-Biodiversity-in-Ecological-Engineering-Groundnut-(Arachis-hypogaea-L.)-Crop-E.-Sree-Latha.pdf','',1,'The present study was carried out at Organic, Ecological Engineering Research Farm, NIPHM, Rajendranagar, Hyderabad during the Kharif and rabi seasons of two consecutive years 2020-2021 and 2021-2022 to observe the biodiversity of major insect pests and their natural enemies in the groundnut ecosystem. In the experimental field a total of 10 species of insect pests belonging to different orders and varied families were recorded. The order Lepidoptera showed the highest number of 6 species. This was further followed by Hemiptera (2 species), Thysanoptera (1 species) and Coleptera (1 species). 22 species of predator in 9 different orders and 5 species of parasitoids belonging to Hymenopteran order were found. The study revealed that the natural enemy population in organically maintained ecological engineering field helps in managing insect pests naturally and encourages farmers to choose ecological engineering as key component for sustainable agriculture.','Biodiversity, groundnut, insect pests, predator, parasitoid, ecological engineering, organic','The results of the present study revealed the occurrence of several species of insect pests and their natural enemy population in the groundnut. As groundnut crop ecosystem is ecologically diversified the natural enemy population is more than insect pests and thereby reduce the pest population naturally. Ecologically diversified agro-ecosystem supports conservation of natural enemies which is not only helps in managing insect pests but also helps in rescuing the environment from ill effects of hazardous pesticides which otherwise are used to manage the insect pests.','-','E. Sree Latha, U. Sai Prasoona and S. Jesu Rajan (2022). Major Insect Pests and their Natural Enemy Biodiversity in Ecological Engineering Groundnut (Arachis hypogaea L.) Crop. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 14(4a): 445-448.'),(5886,'147','Agritourism to Enhance Integrated Farming Model: A Case of Agritourism Centre in Uttarakhand','Kawita Bhatt and V.L.V. Kameshwari','77-Agritourism-to-Enhance-Integrated-Farming-Model-A-Case-of-Agritourism-Centre-in-Uttarakhand-Kawita-Bhatt.pdf','',1,'Uttarakhand is an agrarian state situated in the northern region of India. More than 80 percent of all the croplands are in the plains and the remaining are in the hills. The local residents of hilly areas are facing problems to ensure a sustainable source of income due to fragmented land holding, unfavourable weather conditions, natural calamities, lack of irrigation facilities and wild animal’s attack. There is a dire need for diversifying farm activities and agritourism is one such activity that could supplement farm income with the available resources. Uttarakhand is divided into two divisions’ viz. Kumaon and Garhwal. Pauri Garhwal district was selected from Garhwal division of Uttarakhand using simple random sampling and agritourism centre run by Gauri Self Help Group was selected through snowball sampling. Here an attempt has been made to document features of agritourism venture situated in Gaurikot that is assisting 18 families to sustain in hilly areas of Uttarakhand that are managing the issue of migration with innovative approaches. It incorporated integrated farming model and also added agritourismin which they opened their farms for tourists, visits and trainings to supplement the farm income without additional inputs. This paper highlights that hilly regions having adversities for agriculture can evolve into areas of socio-economic adaptations and could create income through the amalgamation of agriculture and tourism.','Agritourism, Self-help Group, Integrated farming, sustainable livelihood','As agritourism is in the nascent stage in Uttarakhand and the tourism department does not have any specific institution working for identification and registration of all such centers. Gauri Self Help Group is collaboratively working towards insertion of several activities besides farming and supplementing the farm income. It has also exhibited that addition of agritourism in the integrated farming model can be proven utilitarian and should be taken up as a farm diversification strategy. Although agritourism activities have been recently included by this group and a main reason behind this is that agritourism is in nascent stage in Uttarakhand and there is a lack of awareness. Majority of the SHGs across the country are working dedicatedly to improve their living condition but the activities are limited to food processing, art and craft. So, SHGs can include agritourism for diversifying their income in an innovative way.','-','Kawita Bhatt and V.L.V. Kameshwari (2022). Agritourism to Enhance Integrated Farming Model: A Case of Agritourism Centre in Uttarakhand. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 14(4a): 449-454.'),(5887,'147','Performance Evaluation of Cotton Stalk Harvesting Machine for ex-situ Application','Er. Ch. Sravan Kumar, K.V. Praksah, B. Sanjeeva Reddy, Sushilendra, P Vijay Kumar, Krishanmurthy and Nemichandrappa ','313 Performance Evaluation of Cotton Stalk Harvesting Machine for ex-situ Application Sravan Kumar.pdf','',4,'Cotton (Gossypium hirsutum) is an important commercial crop in India. Annually 30.79 million tons of cotton stalk residue is being generated in India. In India, after harvesting cotton lint, cotton stalks are removed by either manual uprooting or cutting them using sickle above the ground level, which is a laborious operation and contributes to increase in crop production. After removing cotton stalks from field, farmers are burning cotton stalks in their fields. Burning of stalks increases CO2, CO, N2O and NOx in the atmosphere which leads to increase in air pollution. In India, crop residues are removed by manual uprooting or cutting the stalks which is high labour intensive and contributes towards high cost of crop production. Instead of burning the stalks in fields, cotton stalks have the potential to be used for ex-situ application such as, raw material for briquettes due to its high lingo cellulosic nature. Ex-situ utilization cotton stalk aids in generating additional income to farmers. In order to utilize the cotton stalk for ex-situ application a cotton stalk harvester was developed and evaluated in the field conditions. The developed cotton stalk harvesting machine was evaluated for 3 forward speeds viz., 2, 3 and 4 km h-1. Operation at 2 km h-1 gave the better result with mean chopped length of 112.8 mm, fineness modulus of 1.706, bulk density of 215.33 kgm-3 machine output was recorded as 1379.63 kgh-1 chopping height was recorded as 88 mm and fuel consumption of 6.8 lh-1.','Fineness modulus, Bulk density, machine output, chopping height','In order to utilize the cotton stalk for ex-situ application a cotton stalk harvester was developed and evaluated in the field conditions. The developed cotton stalk harvesting machine was evaluated for 3 forward speeds viz., 2, 3 and 4 km h-1. Operation at 2 km h-1 gave the better result with mean chopped length of 112.8 mm, fineness modulus of 1.706, bulk density of 215.33 kgm-3 machine output was recorded as 1379.63 kgh-1 chopping height was recorded as 88 mm and fuel consumption of 6.8 lh-1.','-','Er. Ch. Sravan Kumar, K.V. Praksah, B. Sanjeeva Reddy, Sushilendra, P Vijay Kumar, Krishanmurthy and Nemichandrappa (2022). Performance Evaluation of Cotton Stalk Harvesting Machine for ex-situ Application. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 14(1): 1803-1812.'),(5888,'147','Role of Agricultural Credit towards Productivity in Paddy, Cotton and Maize','Y. Archana Karuni, K. Suhasini, R. Vijaya Kumari and G.P. Sunandini','314 Role of Agricultural Credit towards Productivity in Paddy Cotton and Maize Y. ArchanaKaruni.pdf','',4,'The present focus of Indian agriculture is to improve agricultural productivity and profitability contributing to growth of the farm economy. For this challenge to be achieved credit being the\r\ncritical input and occupying an important place in strategy for development of agriculture,\r\nthe present thrust is laid through intervention in Agricultural credit. The lack of adequate financial resources and absence of timely credit facilities at reasonable rates result in a situation wherein many of the farmers, even though otherwise willing, are unable adopt and harness the results arising out of major and minor technological changes. In the current study to emphasize the role of credit towards agricultural production Cobb-Douglas form of production function has been fitted to understand the relationship between per hectare output of crops i.e. paddy, cotton and maize and quantities of inputs while institutional credit is taken as dummy variable. In paddy, credit is a positive factor increasing productivity by 0.04 per cent at 0.05 per cent probability level. Regression coefficient of credit for cotton was 0.19. In maize contribution of credit is positive to maize yield and was found to be capital intensive crop.\r\n','Agricultural credit, productivity, loanee, non-loanee farmers','The study concluded that institutional agricultural credit (crop loan) increased the productivity of the selected crops if used for the purpose it has been taken. The yield level obtained by loanee farmers of all size groups were significantly higher than non-loanee farmers in paddy cotton and maize. The analysis has revealed that credit has a positive impact and was a significant factor in increasing the productivity of paddy crop and maize. Access to institutional credit by loanee farmers enabled the farmers to purchase timely inputs helped realize increased productivity and thereby contribute to improved income, decreased dependency on non-institutional sources unlike non-loanee farmers. Measure should be strengthened to access credit in right time, through right agency and adequate quantum shall shield the farmer from exploitation by non-institutional sources, greater cost of credit and avoid falling into debt trap thereby continue farming with profitable yields. ','-','Y. Archana Karuni, K. Suhasini, R. Vijaya Kumari and G.P. Sunandini (2022). Role of Agricultural Credit Towards Productivity in Paddy, Cotton and Maize. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 14(1): 1813-1818.'),(5889,'135','Role of Agricultural Credit towards Productivity in Paddy, Cotton and Maize','Y. Archana Karuni, K. Suhasini, R. Vijaya Kumari and G.P. Sunandini','314 Role of Agricultural Credit towards Productivity in Paddy Cotton and Maize Y. ArchanaKaruni.pdf','',1,'The present focus of Indian agriculture is to improve agricultural productivity and profitability contributing to growth of the farm economy. For this challenge to be achieved credit being the\r\ncritical input and occupying an important place in strategy for development of agriculture,\r\nthe present thrust is laid through intervention in Agricultural credit. The lack of adequate financial resources and absence of timely credit facilities at reasonable rates result in a situation wherein many of the farmers, even though otherwise willing, are unable adopt and harness the results arising out of major and minor technological changes. In the current study to emphasize the role of credit towards agricultural production Cobb-Douglas form of production function has been fitted to understand the relationship between per hectare output of crops i.e. paddy, cotton and maize and quantities of inputs while institutional credit is taken as dummy variable. In paddy, credit is a positive factor increasing productivity by 0.04 per cent at 0.05 per cent probability level. Regression coefficient of credit for cotton was 0.19. In maize contribution of credit is positive to maize yield and was found to be capital intensive crop.\r\n','Agricultural credit, productivity, loanee, non-loanee farmers','The study concluded that institutional agricultural credit (crop loan) increased the productivity of the selected crops if used for the purpose it has been taken. The yield level obtained by loanee farmers of all size groups were significantly higher than non-loanee farmers in paddy cotton and maize. The analysis has revealed that credit has a positive impact and was a significant factor in increasing the productivity of paddy crop and maize. Access to institutional credit by loanee farmers enabled the farmers to purchase timely inputs helped realize increased productivity and thereby contribute to improved income, decreased dependency on non-institutional sources unlike non-loanee farmers. Measure should be strengthened to access credit in right time, through right agency and adequate quantum shall shield the farmer from exploitation by non-institutional sources, greater cost of credit and avoid falling into debt trap thereby continue farming with profitable yields. ','-','Y. Archana Karuni, K. Suhasini, R. Vijaya Kumari and G.P. Sunandini (2022). Role of Agricultural Credit Towards Productivity in Paddy, Cotton and Maize. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 14(1): 1813-1818.'),(5890,'147','Investigating the Impact of Nitrogen Sources on Nutrient Content and their Uptake in Rice Grain and Straw','Amit Kumar, S.K. Singh, Rohtas Kumar, Sandip Kumar Gautam and Mohit Sharma ','78 Investigating the Impact of Nitrogen Sources on Nutrient Content and their Uptake in Rice Grain and Straw Amit Kumar.pdf','',1,'The appropriate application of manures and fertilizers as a nitrogen source can greatly impact the nutrient content and absorption by plants, which in turn affects crop yield. Rice is an exhaustive crop which removes a large amount of nutrients from the soil. So, to study the soil fertility status it is important to study nutrient removal from the soil. Keeping this in mind, a field experiment was conducted at Chaudhary Charan Singh Haryana Agricultural University, Krishi Vigyan Kendra farm, Fatehabad (Haryana) during Kharif 2020 to study the effect of different nitrogen sources on N, P, K, and S content and their uptake by rice grain and straw. The experiment was laid out with fourteen treatments, viz., T1 (Control), T2 (100% RDN through urea), T3 (75% RDN + 25% N through FYM), T4 (50% RDN + 50% N through FYM), T5 (25% RDN + 75% N through FYM), T6 (100% N through FYM), T7 (75% RDN + 25% N through Vermicompost), T8 (50% RDN + 50% N through Vermicompost), T9 (25% RDN + 75% N through Vermicompost), T10 (100% N through Vermicompost), T11 (75% RDN + 25% N through Poultry manure), T12 (50% RDN + 50% N through Poultry manure), T13 (25% RDN + 75% N through Poultry manure), and T14 (100% N through Poultry manure). In grain and straw, the N content varied from 1.17 to 1.30 % and 0.43 to 0.57 %, respectively. The treatments T2, T3, T7 and T11 recorded the highest N content in grain (0.51 %) and straw (0.26 %). In grain, the highest P content (0.51 %) was observed in T2, T3, T7 and T11 and the lowest (0.38 %) in T1 treatment. Phosphorus content in straw varied from (0.26 %) in T2, T3, T7 and T11 to (0.19 %) in T1 treatment. In grain, the highest K content (0.52 %) was observed in T2, T3, T7 and T11 and the lowest (0.39 %) was observed in T1. In straw, K content ranged from 1.56 % in T1 to 1.80 % in T2, T3, T7 and T11 treatment. In grain and straw, the highest (0.20 %) S content was observed in treatment T2, T3, T7 and T11. Apart from this, treatment T2 also recorded the highest uptake of N, P, K, and S in grain and straw. So, this study helped in understanding the amount of nutrients removed from the soil by rice crop.','Nitrogen sources, RDN, FYM, Vermicompost, poultry manure, nutrient content, uptake','The results of the study indicate that the type of nitrogenous source used had a significant impact on the nutrient content of rice grain and straw. The nutrient content was higher in treatments where chemical fertilizers were used, indicating that these fertilizers provide plant nutrients in a readily available form for plants. In contrast, treatments using organic sources had lower nutrient content, suggesting that these sources may not be fully decomposed and therefore not as easily available to the plants. The nutrient content in grain and straw is also influenced by the overall nutrient status of the soil.','-','Amit Kumar, S.K. Singh, Rohtas Kumar, Sandip Kumar Gautam and Mohit Sharma (2022). Investigating the Impact of Nitrogen Sources on Nutrient Content and their Uptake in Rice Grain and Straw. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 14(4a): 455-461.'),(5891,'147','Bio Efficacy of Bio-pesticides and Insecticides against Defoliators of kharif Groundnut','Dahiphale K.D., Mutkule D.S. and Ambilwade P.P.','79Bio-Efficacy-of-Bio-pesticides-and-Insecticides-against-Defoliators-of-kharif-Groundnut-Dahiphale-K.pdf','',1,'India is the second largest producer of groundnut in the world but has very low productivity as compare to other countries. Pests and diseases incidence are the major reason for low productivity of groundnut in India An experiment was conducted at Oil Seed Research Station, VNMKV, Latur (Maharashtra, India) during kharif 2019 to 2021 to study the evaluation of insecticides for the management of Helicoverpa armigera (Hubner) and Spodoptera litura (Fabricius) infesting groundnut under field condition. Insecticides evaluated in the present experiment were Bt-127 SC @3ml/lit, Delfin (Bt commercial formulation) @1g/lit, Quinalphos 25 EC @ 2ml/lit and Chlorantraniliprole 18.5 SC @ 0.3ml/lit. Single sprays of respective insecticides were applied on appearance of early instars of lepidopteran pests. The observations were recorded on population of defoliators larvae per randomly selected 5 plants per treatment. The results revealed that all the four insecticidal treatments were significantly superior over untreated control in reducing the infestation of both defoliator pests of groundnut. However, chlorantraniliprole 18.5 SC was significantly most effective among four insecticides tested. The three years pooled data also showed, significantly higher dry pod yield (1770 kg/ha) of groundnut in Chlorantraniliprole 18.5 SC @ 0.3ml/lit, however, it was found at par with treatments Bt-127 SC @3ml/lit (1579) and Quinalphos 25 EC @ 2ml/lit (1566 kg/ha). The highest ICBR (1:20.35) was recorded in treatment Quinalphos 25 EC @ 2ml/lit, followed by Bt-127 SC @3ml/lit (1:18.07). ','Bio efficacy, Groundnut, Helicoverpa armigera, Spodoptera litura','From the present studies it is concluded that all the four insecticidal treatments, were more effective than untreated control in reducing the S. litura and H. armigera larval population under field condition, among which chlorantranilliprole 18.5 SC @ 0.3ml/lit was found extremely effective for controling larval population of S. litura and H. armigera with highest dry pod yield of groundnut. ','-','Dahiphale K.D., Mutkule D.S. and Ambilwade P.P. (2022). Bio Efficacy of Bio-pesticides and Insecticides Against Defoliators of kharif Groundnut. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 14(4a): 462-466.'),(5892,'147','An Analysis of Energy Balance Studies on Bt Cotton Production under High Density Planting System in Telangana','D. Kavya, Ch. Pragathi Kumari, G. Sreenivas and T. Ram Prakash','An-Analysis-of-Energy-Balance-Studies-on-Bt-Cotton-Production-under-High-Density-Planting-System-in-Telangana-Ch.pdf','',1,'The assessment of the energy requirements of Bt cotton was carried out during kharif 2021-22 at College farm, PJTSAU, Rajendranagar, Hyderabad. The aim of this research is to determine the energy input and output involved in Bt cotton production. The average energy consumption of Bt cotton production investigated in this study was 18302 MJ ha-1. The experiment was laid out in factorial RBD consisting of four levels of planting densities viz., 90 × 15 cm, 90 × 20 cm, 90 × 30 cm and 90 × 60 cm as factor I treatments and 4 levels of nitrogen viz., 90, 120, 150, 180 kg N ha-1 as factor II treatments and replicated thrice. Results depicted that among plant spacing, the total input and output energy of Bt cotton were about 17942 to 18680 and 81529 to 114707 MJ ha-1, respectively. Significantly, higher net energy (96027 MJ kg-1), energy ratio (6.17), energy productivity (0.117 kg MJ-1) and lower specific energy (8.56 MJ kg-1) was recorded with closer spacing of 90 × 15 cm and was at par with spacing 90 × 20 cm. Regarding nitrogen doses, the total input and output energy of Bt cotton ranged between 15430 to 21275 and 88543 to 106883 MJ ha-1, respectively. Where, significantly higher net energy (86508 MJ kg-1) was recorded with 150 kg N ha-1 and was comparable with application of 180 and 120 kg N ha-1. While, significantly lower specific energy (8.95 MJ kg-1) required to produce higher energy productivity (0.113 kgMJ-1) and energy ratio (5.76 MJ kg-1) were recorded with application of 120 kg N ha-1 and was on par with application of 90 and 150 kg N ha-1.','Bt cotton, Energy ratio, High density planting, Input energy use, Nitrogen','The research was carried out to determine the impact of various energy characteristics on Bt cotton yields and observed that nitrogen fertilizer, diesel fuel and chemical used for herbicide control were found to be the most energy consuming among all other forms of input energy. In certain cases, over application of fertilizer has adverse implications on crop output. From this investigation, high density planting with closer spacing of 90 × 15 cm utilised lower amount of energy (8.56 MJ kg-1) to produce higher energy ratio (6.17), net energy (96027 MJ kg-1) and energy productivity (0.117 kg MJ-1). While, with application of 120 kg N ha-1 consumed less amount of energy (8.95 MJ kg-1) to produce higher energy ratio (5.76) and energy productivity (0.113 kg MJ-1). Thus, indicating that high density planting is suitable crop under rainfed environment producing higher seed output, net energy yield, and eventually increased energy use efficiency of inputs.','-','D. Kavya, Ch. Pragathi Kumari, G. Sreenivas and T. Ram Prakash (2022). An Analysis of Energy Balance Studies on Bt Cotton Production under High Density Planting System In Telangana. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 14(4a): 467-471.'),(5893,'147','Influence of Post-harvest Treatments on Shelf Life and Quality of Mango (Mangifera indica L.) cv. Alphonso','Vishwanath, Laxman Kukanoor, Kirankumar Gorabal, Shantappa Tirakannanavar, Praveen Jholgiker and Sumangala Koulagi ','Influence-of-Post-harvest-Treatments-on-Shelf-Life-and-Quality-of-Mango-(Mangifera-indica-L.)-cv.pdf','',1,'Mango fruits have a very limited shelf-life and fruits cannot be stored for a longer time at room temperature are particularly seasonally specific. Fruits were exposed to putrescine (1, 2 mM), hexanal (2, 3%) and carboxymethyl cellulose (1, 2%) for 15-minutes in an effort to enhance their shelf life. At 4-day intervals, ambient conditions were used to determine the physiological loss of weight (PLW), firmness, respiration rate, TSS and titratable acidity. In comparison to the control (13.56% and 167.69 mlCO2/kg/h), fruits treated with PUT (2 mM) exhibited a lower PLW (5.35%) and respiration rate (145.57 mlCO2/kg/h). Higher firmness (2.26 kg), a slower rate of TSS decrease and titratable acidity were all retained in fruits treated with 2 mM PUT. Control fruits soon lost firmness under storage and TSS duplication was more rapid. In conclusion, post-harvest dip treatment of 2 mM PUT dipped for 15-min effectively stored up to 23.54 days under ambient condition.','Mango, Putrescine, Hexanal, Carboxymethyl cellulose, Postharvest dip andShelf life','Putrescine (PUT 2.0 mM) maintained the fruit firmness, delayed the physiological loss in weight, respiration rate and delayed changes in TSS and titratable acidity of mango fruit, hence the PUT can be effectively used to maintain the postharvest quality and to improve the storage life of mango fruits up to 23.54 days in ambient condition.','-','Vishwanath, Laxman Kukanoor, Kirankumar Gorabal, Shantappa Tirakannanavar, Praveen Jholgiker and Sumangala Koulagi (2022). Influence of Post-harvest Treatments on Shelf Life and Quality of Mango (Mangifera indica L.) cv. Alphonso. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 14(4a): 472-475.'),(5894,'135','Performance Evaluation of Cotton Stalk Harvesting Machine for ex-situ Application','Er. Ch. Sravan Kumar, K.V. Praksah, B. Sanjeeva Reddy, Sushilendra, P Vijay Kumar, Krishanmurthy and Nemichandrappa','313 Performance Evaluation of Cotton Stalk Harvesting Machine for ex-situ Application Sravan Kumar.pdf','',1,'Cotton (Gossypium hirsutum) is an important commercial crop in India. Annually 30.79 million tons of cotton stalk residue is being generated in India. In India, after harvesting cotton lint, cotton stalks are removed by either manual uprooting or cutting them using sickle above the ground level, which is a laborious operation and contributes to increase in crop production. After removing cotton stalks from field, farmers are burning cotton stalks in their fields. Burning of stalks increases CO2, CO, N2O and NOx in the atmosphere which leads to increase in air pollution. In India, crop residues are removed by manual uprooting or cutting the stalks which is high labour intensive and contributes towards high cost of crop production. Instead of burning the stalks in fields, cotton stalks have the potential to be used for ex-situ application such as, raw material for briquettes due to its high lingo cellulosic nature. Ex-situ utilization cotton stalk aids in generating additional income to farmers. In order to utilize the cotton stalk for ex-situ application a cotton stalk harvester was developed and evaluated in the field conditions. The developed cotton stalk harvesting machine was evaluated for 3 forward speeds viz., 2, 3 and 4 km h-1. Operation at 2 km h-1 gave the better result with mean chopped length of 112.8 mm, fineness modulus of 1.706, bulk density of 215.33 kgm-3 machine output was recorded as 1379.63 kgh-1 chopping height was recorded as 88 mm and fuel consumption of 6.8 lh-1.','Fineness modulus, Bulk density, machine output, chopping height','In order to utilize the cotton stalk for ex-situ application a cotton stalk harvester was developed and evaluated in the field conditions. The developed cotton stalk harvesting machine was evaluated for 3 forward speeds viz., 2, 3 and 4 km h-1. Operation at 2 km h-1 gave the better result with mean chopped length of 112.8 mm, fineness modulus of 1.706, bulk density of 215.33 kgm-3 machine output was recorded as 1379.63 kgh-1 chopping height was recorded as 88 mm and fuel consumption of 6.8 lh-1.','-','Er. Ch. Sravan Kumar, K.V. Praksah, B. Sanjeeva Reddy, Sushilendra, P Vijay Kumar, Krishanmurthy and Nemichandrappa (2022). Performance Evaluation of Cotton Stalk Harvesting Machine for ex-situ Application. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 14(1): 1803-1812.'),(5895,'147','Identification and Mapping of Pi1K and Pi2, two Major Gene Conferring Resistance against Rice Blast in the progenies derived from Safri-17 × PR-122 × Safri-17 × Aganni; Safri-17 × PR-122; Dubraj × PR-122','Devika Saha, Vijay Yadav and Anil Kotasthane','Identification-and-Mapping-of-Pi1K-and-Pi2,-two-Major-Gene-Conferring-Resistance-against-Rice-Blast-in-the-progenies-derived-from-Safri-17-×-PR-122-×-Safri-17-×-Aganni;-Safri-17-×-PR-122;-DubrajDevika Saha 82.pdf','',1,'More than one-third of the world\'s population, including more than half of its population in India, depends on rice (Oryza sativa L.), which is also the most significant crop for making basic foods. In many agro-ecological settings, rice is farmed in India. By 2050, agricultural output on land that is now under cultivation must rise globally by 70% and in emerging nations by 100% if food insecurity is to be reduced. The host plant is infected by the rice blast fungus during many phases of crop growth, including the leaf, stem, neck, collar, node, and root. The largest problem facing rice breeders is the deterioration of resistance in the many rice types that have been produced throughout time. Consequently, developing resilient cultivars that are broad-spectrum resistance is a difficult undertaking. The major causes of the creation of virulent pathotypes of Magnaporthe, which make blast control a challenging work, are the wide host range, ongoing genetic variety, evolution, and host alterations. Because of this, and other factors, such as the economic significance of blast disease in rice production and human food, the Rice-Magnaporthe interaction pathosystem arose as a model system to research host-pathogen interaction. In our study, the progenies derived from crosses are showing complete resistance against rice blast fungus Pyricularia oryzae. The plant population are screened with natural inoculum under field condition in Raipur, Chhattisgarh. All the plants were highly resistance (HR reaction) to blast. The presence of genes is traced out using the linked molecular markers RM136 and RM7311 for Pi2 and RM224 for tracing the presence of Pi1K. Identification of map position of these molecular markers was accomplished by identifying BAC or PAC clones that simultaneously contained a hit from the marker (Sequence of either forward or reverse Primer). Based on correlative in-silico mapping and blast analysis markers were landed to a physical positions on BAC/PAC clones, which demarcated BAC/PAC clones (pseudo molecules from Nipponbare) for reported genomic location. ','Rice blast, R gene, genetic mapping','In the present study the progenies were validated with the presence of two resistant genes against rice blast which confer broad-spectrum resistance to the population. The introgression of resistant genes into the elite varieties and with the help of marker assisted selection, resistant plants can be easily derived which is incorporated with R gene for P. oryzae. Further with the help of bioinformatics, more primers can be developed that can co-segregate with the resistant gene. ','-','Devika Saha, Vijay Yadav and Anil Kotasthane (2022). Identification and Mapping of Pi1K and Pi2, Two Major Gene Conferring Resistance Against Rice Blast in the progenies derived from Safri-17 × PR-122 × Safri-17 × Aganni; Safri-17 × PR-122; Dubraj × PR-122. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 14(4a): 476-481.'),(5896,'147','A Review on Silkworm (Bombyx mori Linn.) An Economic Important Insect','M.P. Gautam, D.K. Singh, S.N. Singh, S.P. Singh, Manoj Kumar and Shailendra Singh ','A-Review-on-Silkworm-(Bombyx-mori-Linn.)-An-Economic-Important-Insect Manoj Kumar 83.pdf','',1,'India has to compete in the international market successfully and it is necessary to improve the quality of the silk yarn produced by improving the technology of the silk reeling and processing. But, production of raw silk of international grade is possible only through introduction of newer bivoltine silkworm strains especially double cross hybrids. India has strong sericulture base with enormous potential for boosting silk production. In India’s context, stability of double cross hybrid with higher survival is more relevant than higher productivity under prevailing situation. Silkworm is a kind of night butterflies. Butterflies are light cream colour have chubby bodies and have soft feathers. Wingspan is about 4-5 cm. Butterfly have lost flying ability because of domestication also have 2 or 3 days life and at that period doesn’t feed and doesn’t fly. The stability of bivoltine crop was not achieved mainly due to climate, rearing and socio-economic conditions. \r\nMajor constants for silk production is high cost of the equipment and rearing room, lack of manpower, the difficulty in controlling silkworm diseases, the lack of knowledge regarding the physical conditions in the rearing room and grading of cocoons, the distance between cocoon trading units, and the unfavorable rates for cocoons during silkworm rearing are some of the constraints on silk production.\r\nThe purpose of the study was to helps for rearing, control disease and insect pest, processing & selling of cocoon and helps doubling farmer’s income.\r\n','Silkworm, Bombyx mori, Mulberry, Mulberry, Tasar, Oak, Eri, Muga and Disesas','The success of sericulture industry depends upon several factors of which the impact of the environmental factors such as biotic and abiotic factors is of vital importance. Among the abiotic factors, temperature plays a major role on growth and productivity of silkworm, as it is a poikilothermic (cold blooded) insect Benchamin and Jolly (1986). It is also known that the late age silkworms prefer relatively lower temperature than young age and fluctuation of temperature during different stages of larval development was found to be more favourable for growth and development of larvae than constant temperature. There are ample literature stating that good quality cocoons are produced within a temperature range of 22–27◦C and above these levels makes the cocoon quality poorer Krishanaswami et al. (1973). However, polyvoltine races reared in tropical countries are known to tolerate slightly higher temperature Hsieh et al. (1995). Although there are silk fiber that obtained from undomesticated silkworm such as Tasar, Muga, Eri, Anaphe, today silk fiber that obtained from Bombyx mori is important for production and consumption worldwide (Atavve Namırtı, 2011).','-','M.P. Gautam, D.K. Singh, S.N. Singh, S.P. Singh, Manoj Kumar and Shailendra Singh (2022). A Review on Silkworm (Bombyx mori Linn.) An Economic Important Insect. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 14(4a): 482-491.'),(5897,'125','Evaluation of Triple Layer Hermetic Bags for Safe Storage of Seeds by the Small Holding Farmers in Anantapuramu District of Andhra Pradesh','Lahari K. and Sudha Rani K.','273 Evaluation of Triple Layer Hermetic Bags for Safe Storage of Seeds by the Small Holding Farmers in Anantapuramu District of Andhra Pradesh Lahari K 273.pdf','',1,'Post-harvest storage of seeds constitutes a major challenge for farmers in the rural areas of the Anantapuramu district as insect pests cause major losses during grain storage. Farmers use several storage technologies but most of them are not effective. During storage legumes and oil seeds are more vulnerable to insects which can cause discoloration, damage and/or weight loss of the product. Hermetic storage bags have been disseminated to prevent grain storage losses and excessive insect infestation. We carried out research in 5 villages with 5 farm families of the Anantapuramu district during 2018-19 to evaluate the performance of hermetic triple layer bags for the preservation of pulses (pigeon pea and greengram) groundnut for about four months. The assessed parameters were percent weight loss, percent grain damage and percent germination. The study revealed that the percent grain damage was 2.3 and the percent weight loss of stored greengram was found to be 1.13 after the completion of four months of storage. By using two different storing systems after four months revealed that grain damage and weight loss were31.61% and 13,50% respectively in pigeonpea, 13.73% and 7.91% respectively in greengram and 23.94% and 11.84% respectively in groundnut pods after completion of four months of storage in gunny bags. It is also evident that the germination capacity of seeds stored in gunny bags is also reduced when compared to seeds stored in hermetic bags. Our research findings suggest the advantages of using triple-layer bags over gunny bags and their suitability for small and marginal farmers in developing countries.','Triple layer hermetic bag, percent grain damage, percent weight loss, germination percent','Triple-layer hermetic bags work in an eco-friendly manner as it does not involve the use of insecticides for managing the infestation by providing a modified environment with depleted levels of oxygen level. Hermetic storage is a cost-effective, durable and sustainable technique to store seed material for small and marginal farmers for the next season. Further pigeonpea, greengram and groundnut stored in triple-layer bags were found better in weight loss, germination quality and minimum pest infestation than traditional storage structures like gunny bags.','-','Lahari K. and Sudha Rani K. (2022). Evaluation of Triple Layer Hermetic Bags for Safe Storage of Seeds by the Small Holding Farmers in Anantapuramu District of Andhra Pradesh. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 14(2): 1587-1590.'),(5898,'135','Performance Evaluation of Cotton Stalk Harvesting Machine for ex-situ\r\nApplication','Er. Ch. Sravan Kumar, K.V. Praksah, B. Sanjeeva Reddy, Sushilendra, P Vijay Kumar, Krishanmurthyand Nemichandrappa','313 Performance Evaluation of Cotton Stalk Harvesting Machine for ex-situ Application Sravan Kumar.pdf','',1,'Cotton (Gossypium hirsutum) is an important commercial crop in India. Annually 30.79 million tons of cotton stalk residue is being generated in India. In India, after harvesting cotton lint, cotton stalks are removed by either manual uprooting or cutting them using sickle above the ground level, which is a laborious operation and contributes to increase in crop production. After removing cotton stalks from field, farmers are burning cotton stalks in their fields. Burning of stalks increases CO2, CO, N2O and NOx in the atmosphere which leads to increase in air pollution. In India, crop residues are removed by manual uprooting or cutting the stalks which is high labour intensive and contributes towards high cost of crop production. Instead of burning the stalks in fields, cotton stalks have the potential to be used for ex-situ application such as, raw material for briquettes due to its highlingo cellulosic nature. Ex-situ utilization cotton stalk aids in generating additional income to farmers.In order to utilize the cotton stalk for ex-situ application a cotton stalk harvester was developed and evaluated in the field conditions. The developed cotton stalk harvesting machine was evaluated for 3 forward speeds viz., 2, 3 and 4 km h -1 . Operation at 2 km h -1 gave the better result with mean chopped length of 112.8 mm, fineness modulus of 1.706, bulk density of 215.33 kgm-3 machine output','Fineness modulus, Bulk density, machine output, chopping height.','In order to utilize the cotton stalk for ex-situ application a cotton stalk harvester was developedand evaluated in the field conditions. The developed cotton stalk harvesting machine was evaluated for 3 forward speeds viz., 2, 3 and 4 km h-1 . Operation at 2 km h-1 gave the better result with mean chopped length of 112.8 mm, fineness modulus of 1.706, bulk density of 215.33 kgm-3 machine output was recorded as 1379.63 kgh-1 chopping height was recorded as 88 mm and fuel consumption of 6.8 lh-1','Ananda Kumar, T. M., Sanjeeva Reddy, Anantachar, M., Veerangouda, M. and Prakash, K. V. (2016). Development of tractor operated machine for maize stalk in-situ shredding. Environment & Ecology, 34(4), 2420-2424. Bhuvaneshwari, S., Hiroshan, Hettiaarachchi and Meegoda Kumar et al., Biological Forum – An International Journal 14(1): 1803-1812(2022) 1812 Jay, N. (2019). Crop residue burning inIndia: Policy changes and Potential solutions. International Journal of Environmental Research and Public Health, 16(832), 1-19. Bosoi, E. S., Verniaev, O. V., Smirnov, I. I. and Shakh Sultan, E. G. (1990). Theory, construction and calculations of agricultural machines. Vol.2. Oxonian Press Pvt. Ltd. New Delhi 348-392. Celestine, I. and Matthew Sunday Abolarinand Ibukun Blessing Ikechukwu (2014). Effect of groundnut paste fineness modulus on quantity of oil extractable. Elixir Mech. Engg., 73, 25983-25984. Eltarhuny, M. M. and Tarek Fouda (2012). Utilization of self- propelled harvester and shredder machines for removing some field crop residues. Management, economic engineering in agriculture and rural development, 12(1), 67-70. El-Khatteb, H. A. and EL-Keway, A. A. ( 2012) Development and evaluation of cutting knives to suitcutting wet and dry field residues. J. Soil Sci and Agric. Eng., Mansoura Univ., 3(6), 601-616. Jha, S. K., Amar Singh and Adarsh Kumar ( 2008). Physical characteristics of compressed cotton stalks. Biosystems engineering, 99, 205-210. Khurmi, R. S. and Gupta, J. K. (2006). A Text book of machine design, Eurasia Publishing House Pvt. Ltd. New Delhi, India. 325-381. Kanafojski, C. and Karwawski, T. (1976) Agricultural Machines, Theory and construction vol. 2: crop Harvesting machines. National center for scientific, technical and economic information warsaw, Poland. Mohamed Sayed Omran (2008). Study of the performance of the most widely used shredders for crops residues in Egypt. The 15th Annual conference of the Mirs Society of Ag. Eng. 12-13 Rajesh Goyal, Mahal, J. S. and Manes, G. S. (2016). Performance evaluation of flail unit of forage harvester on sorghum fodder. Agri. Res. J., 53(2), 264- 267. Rajesh Goyal, Mahal, J. S., Manes, G. S. and Dixit, A. (2016 b). Performance evaluation of tractor operated flail type forage harvester having chaffing system on maize fodder. Agri. Res. J., 53(3), 416-420. Rajesh Verma,Vishal Bector and Gursahib Singh (2015). Effect of crop geometry, cutter speed and forward speed on performance characteristics of tractor operated forage harvester-cum- chopper. Agricultural Engineering Today, 39(4), 49-54. Senthilkumar, T., Manian, R. and Kathirvel, K. (2009). Development and performance evaluation of a tractor operated cotton stalk shredder cum In-situ applicator. Agril. Mech. in Asia, Africa, andLatin America, 40(2), 65-67. Świetochowski, A. Lisowski, and ADąbrowska-Salwin, M. (2016). The effect of particles sizes on thedensity and porosity of the material. Proceedings of International Conference on Trends in Agricultural Engineering,7- 9, Prague Czech Republic, 609-614.','Er. Ch. Sravan Kumar, K.V. Praksah, B. Sanjeeva Reddy, Sushilendra, P Vijay Kumar, Krishanmurthyand Nemichandrappa (2022). Performance Evaluation of Cotton Stalk Harvesting Machine for ex-situ Application. BiologicalForum – An International Journal, 14(1): 1803-1812.\r\n'),(5899,'112','Performance Evaluation of Cotton Stalk Harvesting Machine for ex-situ Application','Er. Ch. Sravan Kumar, K.V. Praksah, B. Sanjeeva Reddy, Sushilendra, P Vijay Kumar, Krishanmurthy and Nemichandrappa','313 Performance Evaluation of Cotton Stalk Harvesting Machine for ex-situ Application Sravan Kumar.pdf','',1,'Cotton (Gossypium hirsutum) is an important commercial crop in India. Annually 30.79 million tons of cotton stalk residue is being generated in India. In India, after harvesting cotton lint, cotton stalks are removed by either manual uprooting or cutting them using sickle above the ground level, which is a laborious operation and contributes to increase in crop production. After removing cotton stalks from field, farmers are burning cotton stalks in their fields. Burning of stalks increases CO2, CO, N2O and NOx in the atmosphere which leads to increase in air pollution. In India, crop residues are removed by manual uprooting or cutting the stalks which is high labour intensive and contributes towards high cost of crop production. Instead of burning the stalks in fields, cotton stalks have the potential to be used for ex-situ application such as, raw material for briquettes due to its highlingo cellulosic nature. Ex-situ utilization cotton stalk aids in generating additional income to farmers. In order to utilize the cotton stalk for ex-situ application a cotton stalk harvester was developed and evaluated in the field conditions. The developed cotton stalk harvesting machine was evaluated for 3 forward speeds viz., 2, 3 and 4 km h-1. Operation at 2 km h-1 gave the better result with mean chopped length of 112.8 mm, fineness modulus of 1.706, bulk density of 215.33 kgm-3 machine output was recorded as 1379.63 kgh-1 chopping height was recorded as 88 mm and fuel consumption of 6.8 lh-1.','Fineness modulus, Bulk density, machine output, chopping height.','In order to utilize the cotton stalk for ex-situ application a cotton stalk harvester was developedand evaluated in the field conditions. The developed cotton stalk harvesting machine was evaluated for 3 forward speeds viz., 2, 3 and 4 km h-1. Operation at 2 km h-1 gave the better result with mean chopped length of 112.8 mm, fineness modulus of 1.706, bulk density of 215.33 kgm-3 machine output was recorded as 1379.63 kgh-1 chopping height was recorded as 88 mm and fuel consumption of 6.8 lh-1.','Ananda Kumar, T. M., Sanjeeva Reddy, Anantachar, M., Veerangouda, M. and Prakash, K. V. (2016). Development of tractor operated machine for maize stalk in-situ shredding. Environment & Ecology, 34(4), 2420-2424. Bhuvaneshwari, S., Hiroshan, Hettiaarachchi and Meegoda Jay, N. (2019). Crop residue burning in India: Policy changes and Potential solutions. International Journal of Environmental Research and Public Health, 16(832), 1-19. Bosoi, E. S., Verniaev, O. V., Smirnov, I. I. and Shakh Sultan, E. G. (1990). Theory, construction and calculations of agricultural machines. Vol.2. Oxonian Press Pvt. Ltd. New Delhi 348-392. Celestine, I. and Matthew Sunday Abolarinand Ibukun Blessing Ikechukwu (2014). Effect of groundnut paste fineness modulus on quantity of oil extractable. Elixir Mech. Engg., 73, 25983-25984. Eltarhuny, M. M. and Tarek Fouda (2012). Utilization of self- propelled harvester and shredder machines for removing some field crop residues. Management, economic engineering in agriculture and rural development, 12(1), 67-70. El-Khatteb, H. A. and EL-Keway, A. A. ( 2012) Development and evaluation of cutting knives to suitcutting wet and dry field residues. J. Soil Sci and Agric. Eng., Mansoura Univ., 3(6), 601-616. Jha, S. K., Amar Singh and Adarsh Kumar ( 2008). Physical characteristics of compressed cotton stalks. Biosystems engineering, 99, 205-210. Khurmi, R. S. and Gupta, J. K. (2006). A Text book of machine design, Eurasia Publishing House Pvt. Ltd. New Delhi, India. 325-381. Kanafojski, C. and Karwawski, T. (1976) Agricultural Machines, Theory and construction vol. 2: crop Harvesting machines. National center for scientific, technical and economic information warsaw, Poland. Mohamed Sayed Omran (2008). Study of the performance of the most widely used shredders for crops residues in Egypt. The 15th Annual conference of the Mirs Society of Ag. Eng. 12-13 Rajesh Goyal, Mahal, J. S. and Manes, G. S. (2016). Performance evaluation of flail unit of forage harvester on sorghum fodder. Agri. Res. J., 53(2), 264- 267. Rajesh Goyal, Mahal, J. S., Manes, G. S. and Dixit, A. (2016 b). Performance evaluation of tractor operated flail type forage harvester having chaffing system on maize fodder. Agri. Res. J., 53(3), 416-420. Rajesh Verma,Vishal Bector and Gursahib Singh (2015). Effect of crop geometry, cutter speed and forward speed on performance characteristics of tractor operated forage harvester-cum- chopper. Agricultural Engineering Today, 39(4), 49-54. Senthilkumar, T., Manian, R. and Kathirvel, K. (2009). Development and performance evaluation of a tractor operated cotton stalk shredder cum In-situ applicator. Agril. Mech. in Asia, Africa, andLatin America, 40(2), 65-67. Świetochowski, A. Lisowski, and ADąbrowska-Salwin, M. (2016). The effect of particles sizes on thedensity and porosity of the material. Proceedings of International Conference on Trends in Agricultural Engineering, 7- 9, Prague Czech Republic, 609-614.','Ananda Kumar, T. M., Sanjeeva Reddy, Anantachar, M., Veerangouda, M. and Prakash, K. V. (2016). Development of tractor operated machine for maize stalk in-situ shredding. Environment & Ecology, 34(4), 2420-2424. Bhuvaneshwari, S., Hiroshan, Hettiaarachchi and Meegoda Jay, N. (2019). Crop residue burning in India: Policy changes and Potential solutions. International Journal of Environmental Research and Public Health, 16(832), 1-19. Bosoi, E. S., Verniaev, O. V., Smirnov, I. I. and Shakh Sultan, E. G. (1990). Theory, construction and calculations of agricultural machines. Vol.2. Oxonian Press Pvt. Ltd. New Delhi 348-392. Celestine, I. and Matthew Sunday Abolarinand Ibukun Blessing Ikechukwu (2014). Effect of groundnut paste fineness modulus on quantity of oil extractable. Elixir Mech. Engg., 73, 25983-25984. Eltarhuny, M. M. and Tarek Fouda (2012). Utilization of self- propelled harvester and shredder machines for removing some field crop residues. Management, economic engineering in agriculture and rural development, 12(1), 67-70. El-Khatteb, H. A. and EL-Keway, A. A. ( 2012) Development and evaluation of cutting knives to suitcutting wet and dry field residues. J. Soil Sci and Agric. Eng., Mansoura Univ., 3(6), 601-616. Jha, S. K., Amar Singh and Adarsh Kumar ( 2008). Physical characteristics of compressed cotton stalks. Biosystems engineering, 99, 205-210. Khurmi, R. S. and Gupta, J. K. (2006). A Text book of machine design, Eurasia Publishing House Pvt. Ltd. New Delhi, India. 325-381. Kanafojski, C. and Karwawski, T. (1976) Agricultural Machines, Theory and construction vol. 2: crop Harvesting machines. National center for scientific, technical and economic information warsaw, Poland. Mohamed Sayed Omran (2008). Study of the performance of the most widely used shredders for crops residues in Egypt. The 15th Annual conference of the Mirs Society of Ag. Eng. 12-13 Rajesh Goyal, Mahal, J. S. and Manes, G. S. (2016). Performance evaluation of flail unit of forage harvester on sorghum fodder. Agri. Res. J., 53(2), 264- 267. Rajesh Goyal, Mahal, J. S., Manes, G. S. and Dixit, A. (2016 b). Performance evaluation of tractor operated flail type forage harvester having chaffing system on maize fodder. Agri. Res. J., 53(3), 416-420. Rajesh Verma,Vishal Bector and Gursahib Singh (2015). Effect of crop geometry, cutter speed and forward speed on performance characteristics of tractor operated forage harvester-cum- chopper. Agricultural Engineering Today, 39(4), 49-54. Senthilkumar, T., Manian, R. and Kathirvel, K. (2009). Development and performance evaluation of a tractor operated cotton stalk shredder cum In-situ applicator. Agril. Mech. in Asia, Africa, andLatin America, 40(2), 65-67. Świetochowski, A. Lisowski, and ADąbrowska-Salwin, M. (2016). The effect of particles sizes on thedensity and porosity of the material. Proceedings of International Conference on Trends in Agricultural Engineering, 7- 9, Prague Czech Republic, 609-614.'),(5900,'112','Role of Agricultural Credit towards Productivity in Paddy, Cotton and Maize','Y. Archana Karuni, K. Suhasini, R. Vijaya Kumari and G.P. Sunandini','314 Role of Agricultural Credit towards Productivity in Paddy Cotton and Maize Y. ArchanaKaruni.pdf','',1,'The present focus of Indian agriculture is to improve agricultural productivity and profitability contributing to growth of the farm economy. For this challenge to be achieved credit being the critical input and occupying an important place in strategy for development of agriculture, the present thrust is laid through intervention in Agricultural credit. The lack of adequate financial resources and absence of timely credit facilities at reasonable rates result in a situation wherein many of the farmers, even though otherwise willing, are unable adopt and harness the results arising out of major and minor technological changes. In the current study to emphasize the role of credit towards agricultural production Cobb-Douglas form of production function has been fitted to understand the relationship between per hectare output of crops i.e. paddy, cotton and maize and quantities of inputs while institutional credit is taken as dummy variable. In paddy, credit is a positive factor increasing productivity by 0.04 per cent at 0.05 per cent probability level. Regression coefficient of credit for cotton was 0.19. In maize contribution of credit is positive to maize yield and was found to be capital intensive crop.','Agricultural credit, productivity, loanee, non-loanee farmers.','The study concluded that institutional agricultural credit (crop loan) increased the productivity of the selected crops if used for the purpose it has been taken. The yield level obtained by loanee farmers of all size groups were significantly higher than non-loanee farmers in paddy cotton and maize. The analysis has revealed that credit has a positive impact and was a significant factor in increasing the productivity of paddy crop and maize. Access to institutional credit by loanee farmers enabled the farmers to purchase timely inputs helped realize increased productivity and thereby contribute to improved income, decreased dependency on noninstitutional sources unlike non-loanee farmers. Measure should be strengthened to access credit in right time, through right agency and adequate quantum shall shield the farmer from exploitation by non-institutional sources, greater cost of credit and avoid falling into debt trap thereby continue farming with profitable yields.','Afrin, S., Haider, M. Z. and Islam, S. (2017). Impact of financial inclusion on technical efficiency on paddy farmers in Bangladesh. Agriculture Finance Review, 77(4), 484-505. Ahmad, B. S. (2016). Empirical analysis of institutional credit supply and agricultural production with special reference to Jammu and Kashmir. Indian Journal of Economics and development, 12(1), 113-122. Bashir, M. K., Mehmood, Y. and Hassan, S. (2010). Impact of agricultural credit on productivity of wheat crop: evidence from Lahore, Punjab, Pakistan. Pakistan Journal of Agricultural Sciences, 47(4), 405-409. Baffoe, G., Matsudab, H., Nagaoc, M. and Akiyamad, T. (2014). The dynamics of rural credit and its impacts on agricultural productivity: An empirical study in rural Ghana. International Journal of Sustainable Development, 7(5), 19-34. Bhat, S. A. (2015). Impact of institutional credit on agricultural output: A case study of district Pulwama (J&K). Ph.D. Thesis. Jamia Millia Islamia, New Delhi, India. Karuni et al., Biological Forum – An International Journal 14(1): 1813-1818(2022) 1818 Chandio, A. A., Jiang, Y., Wei, F. and Guangshun, X. (2018). Effects of agricultural credit on wheat productivity of small farms in Sindh, Pakistan: Are short-term loans better ? Agricultural Finance Review, 78(5), 592-610. Das, A., Senapati, M. and John, J. (2009). Impact of agricultural credit on agriculture production: An empirical analysis in India. Reserve Bank of India Occasional Papers, 30(2), 75-107. Finance for agriculture Chapter 16 http://planningcommission.nic.in/plans/planrel/fiveyr/ 1 st/1planch16.html Iqbal, M., Ahmad, M. and Abbas, K. (2003). The impact of institutional credit on agricultural production in Pakistan. The Pakistan Development Review, 42(4), 469-485. Miah, M. A. K., Alam, A. K. M. A. and Rahman, A. H. M. A. (2006). Impact of agricultural credit on MV Boro rice cultivation in Bangladesh. Journal of Agriculture & Rural Development (Gazipur), 4(1/2), 161-168. Nepal Rastra Bank (2014). Agricultural credit and its impact on farm productivity: A case study of Kailali district. Nepal. Rahman, M. S., Khatun. M, Rahman, M.A., Azam, M. G. and Sultana, S. (2014). Assessing the impact of credit on rice production and food security on farm households in Bangladesh. International Journal of Innovative Research and Development, 3(6), 300-308. Saleem, M. A. and Jan, F. A. (2011). The impact of agricultural credit on agricultural productivity in Dera Ismail Khan (district) Khyber Pakhtonkhawa. Pakistan European Journal of Business and Management, 3(2), 38-44. Shah, M. K., Khan, H., Jehanzeb and Khan, Z. (2008). Impact of agricultural credit on farm productivity and income of farmers in mountaneous agriculture in Northern Pakistan (A case study of selected villages in Chitral). Sarhad Journal of Agriculture, 24(4), 713-718. Shalini, H. (2011). Institutional credit to agriculture and its impact on the farm economy in Tumkur District, Karnataka- An Economic Analysis. M.Sc. Thesis, submitted to University of Agricultural Sciences, Dharwad. Sidhu, R. S. and Gill, S. S. (2006). Agricultural credit indebtedness in India: some issues. Indian Journal of Agricultural Economics, 61(1), 11-35. Subbarao, D. (2012). Agricultural credit-accomplishments and challenges. Speech delivered at the thirty years anniversary celebration of NABARD at Mumbai on July 12, 2012. Zedillo, E. (2015). “Overview”. In Eds. E. Zedillo, O. Cattaneo and H. Wheeler, Africa at a Ford in the Road. Taking Off or Disappointment once again? Yale Centre for the Study of Globalization.','Y. Archana Karuni, K. Suhasini, R. Vijaya Kumari and G.P. Sunandini (2022). Role of Agricultural Credit Towards Productivity in Paddy, Cotton and Maize. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 14(1): 1813-1818.'),(5901,'147','An Exploratory Study on Pattern and Factors Influencing Out Migration among COVID-19 Returned Migrants in North Bihar','Avinash Kumar, Ashok K. Singh, Sudhanand Prasad Lal, Deepak Kumar Patel and Satya Prakash','An-Exploratory-Study-on-Pattern-and-Factors-Influencing-Out-Migration-among-COVID-19-Returned-Migrants-in-North-Bihar-Sudhanand-Prasad-Lal84.pdf','',1,'COVID-19 induced lockdown caused the widespread movement of migrants across the globe. In India the lockdown started from 25th March 2020 and lasted after 68 days on 31st May 2020 with partial and no movement. Around 15 lakh registered migrant workers returned to Bihar keeping in view of this fact the present study was conducted in four prominent districts of northern region of Bihar state. These districts were Madhubani, Darbhanga, Samastipur and Sitamarhi. In view of area for study, five blocks from each four districts (Darbhanga, Madhubani, Samastipur and Sitamarhi) were again purposely selected. Data collection was a challenging task from researchers’ end, since respondents had faced a lot of hardship during COVID-19 and they often burst into tears, recalling the severity faced by them while returning home. From each block 15 returned migrant workers were selected thus from each district 75 respondents were selected. Hence the total sample size of the study was 300. The results indicate that majority of migrant workers were from young age group, male, married and belongs to extremely backward caste. Majority of returned migrant workers were functionally literate and having medium level of working experience. The mean value of working experience was 6.8 years. These migrant workers were engaged in agricultural activities before migrating. However majority of migrant workers were having low level of agricultural experience additionally almost one third of them were having low level of experience in allied activities. The primary occupation of more than half of the migrant workers was unskilled labours. The mean value of family income before COVID was ` 216058.40 but after COVID it was reduced to ` 191989.77. Further, the mean value of self income before COVID-19 pandemic was ` 142860 and it was decreased by 12.05 percent. The debt status of migrant workers was increased by 15.32 percent after COVID. Majority of migrant workers were having low level of material possession, extension contact and medium level of mass media exposure. More than half (55.67%) of these migrant workers were seasonal migrants, seeking employment was the key reason for migration for migration. The most favourite destination for migration was Maharashtra, Delhi, Haryana etc. The nature of work ranges from agricultural or casual labourers, construction workers, painter, plumber, labour in brick kiln, maid, factory workers, self employed, skilled workers etc. Keywords: COVID-19, Migrants, Socio-economic, Migration pattern.','COVID-19, Migrants, Migration Pattern, North Bihar, Returned Migrants','The results concluded that major chunk of the migrant workers were functionally literate i.e. 43.67 percent and they had working experience of less than a decade i.e. 6.8 years. More than half (53.67 %) were unskilled laborers. The family income and self income of these migrant workers was reduced by 11.14 percent and 12.05 percent respectively. The debt status of migrant workers was increased by 15.32 percent after COVID-19 pandemic. Majority (55.67%) of these migrant workers were seasonal migrants and seeking employment was the key reason for migration for migration. Maharashtra, Delhi, Haryana and others were top migration destinations. They were mainly engaged in works like agricultural or casual labourers, construction workers, painter, plumber, labour in brick kiln, maid, factory workers, self employed, skilled workers etc. However, since it is a pandemic induced situation so it may not possibly represent the normal situation of the study area.','-','Avinash Kumar, Ashok K. Singh, Sudhanand Prasad Lal, Deepak Kumar Patel and Satya Prakash (2022). An Exploratory Study on Pattern and Factors Influencing Out Migration among COVID-19 Returned Migrants in North Bihar. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 14(4a): 492-498.'),(5902,'147','Studies on Preparation of Frozen Yogurt Smoothie using Non-Nutritive Sweetener','Raksha G.P., Deshpande H.W., Monishdeep V., Wanole P.D. and Poshadri A.','Studies on Preparation of Frozen Yogurt Smoothie using Non-Nutritive Sweetener Raksha G P 85.pdf','',1,'Low calorie and fiber rich synobiotic frozen yogurt smoothies have been identified individually as indicators of healthy dietary patterns. Synobiotic frozen yogurt smoothies have gained popularity as healthy foods since they are low in calories and high in fibre. They stand out for their sour yogurt flavour and ice cream\'s cooling characteristics. In the present study efforts were made to prepare frozen yogurt smoothie using non-nutritive sweetener such as Fructooligosaccharides (FOS), Stevia, liquid jaggery. The frozen yogurt smoothie samples were analyzed for physico-chemical, nutrition and microbial load. The frozen yogurt smoothie was prepared using mango fruit pulp and yogurt in 1:2 ratio along with 1% of psyllium husk to which different non-nutritive sweeteners were added then standardized the process and product taste through sensory analysis by using commercial sample as control. The sample T-1 (Frozen yogurt smoothie containing FOS as sweetener) was rated as liked extremely than other samples of smooothies such as T-2 (Frozen yogurt smoothie containing Stevia as sweetener) and T-3 (Frozen yogurt smoothie containing liquid jaggery as sweetener). The smoothie with fructooligosaccharides as sweetener was found to have better organoleptic properties.','Smoothie, Probioic, Yogurt, Synbiotics, Stevia, Fructooligosaccharides, Psyllium husk','The present study focuses on standardization and quality evaluation of frozen yogurt smoothie containing non-nutritive sweeteners and development of minimally processed, convenient, protein rich and low calorie functional food. Proximate analysis table shows that the protein and dietary fibre of the smoothies ranges from7-9.62 % and 4.58- 6.7%, thus it can be concluded that the yogurt combined with fruits like mango has good nutritional profile when it is combined with non-nutritive sweetener it enhances the health benefits. The process of frozen yogurt smoothie preparation was standardized by varying the Skimmed milk powder content in the yogurt and quantity of non-nutritive sweeteners. On evaluation among 4 frozen yogurt smoothies containing sugar, FOS, stevia and liquid jaggery, the smoothie containing FOS had highest overall acceptance score followed by T-2 and control.\r\nThe obtained results revealed that the formulated frozen yogurt smoothie was good source of protein, carbohydrates, crude fiber and minerals and is low in calorie. Hence it is concluded that developed method of preparation of frozen yogurt smoothie with non nutritive sweetener have good nutritional and health benefits with easy method of preparation. Incorporation of non-nutritive sweeteners into food products which can be consumed as breakfast and snacks provide rich nutrients without side effects like cardiovascular diseases, diabetes etc. Therefore, development of different functional foods incorporated with non-nutritive sweeteners will provide new opportunities for the entrepreneurs to strengthen their economy and food processing sector.\r\n','-','Raksha G.P., Deshpande H.W., Monishdeep V., Wanole P.D. and Poshadri A. (2022). Studies on Preparation of Frozen Yogurt Smoothie using Non-Nutritive Sweetener. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 14(4a): 499-504.'),(5903,'147','Optimization of Malting Process of Horse Gram and its Effect on Biochemical, Anti-nutritional Factors and Utilization in Nutri-drink Mix','Gaikwad S.S., Ghatge P.U., Anerao K.K. and Deshpande H.W.','Optimization-of-Malting-Process-of-Horse-Gram-and-its-Effect-on-Biochemical,-Anti-nutritional-Factors-and-Utilization-in-Nutri-drink-Mix-Gaikwad-S-86.pdf','',1,'The present study was carried out in order to study the optimization process for malting of horse gram and its effect on various factors such as proximate, anti-nutritional compounds. Initially, process optimization with varying steeping and germination time period was done to determine the malt yield and malt losses. The malt yield was found higher in fourth optimized condition i.e., 80.35% with reduced loss 6.47%. The nutritional profile showed the enhanced levels of proteins and ash content i.e., 24.2% and 3.4% as compared to the raw horse gram flour. The anti-nutritional factors such as phytic acid and tannins of malted flour was found to reduce significantly as 4.736 ± 0.421 mg/g, 5.7 ± 0.31 mg/g as compared to the raw flour 10.60 ± 0.65 mg/g, 18.22 ± 1.30 mg/g respectively. \r\nThe nutri-drink mix was formulated by incorporation of levels of horse gram malt flour as 5%, 10%, 15 % and 20%. The organoleptic was done for the nutri-drink mix where the trial T3 i.e., with 15 % incorporation of horse gram malt flour found to have higher score i.e., 8.3 for overall acceptability. The utilization of malt flour in nutri-drink mix was performed and the mix was organoleptically acceptable.\r\n','Anti-nutritional, organoleptic, optimization, malting, mix','Our study demonstrates that the utilization of horsegram malt is a promising functional ingredient for value-addition in nutri-drink mix, as observed by the improvement of the nutritional properties of the mix. Furthermore, the inclusion of the process optimization treatments for better malt yield was done successfully. The effect of malting on chemical composition, anti-nutritionally factors was done well. The incorporation of the malt flour in the developed nutri-drink mix was found acceptable with enhanced overall acceptability. ','-','Gaikwad S.S., Ghatge P.U., Anerao K.K. and Deshpande H.W. (2022). Optimization of Malting Process of Horse Gram and its Effect on Biochemical, Anti-nutritional Factors and Utilization in Nutri-drink Mix. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 14(4a): 505-510.'),(5904,'147','Evaluation of Insecticides for the Management of Brown Plant Hopper and White Backed Plant Hopper in Rice Crop','B. Sampath Reddy, B.N. Chaudhari, Ch. Sowmya and P.N. Dawane','Evaluation of Insecticides for the Management of Brown Plant Hopper and White Backed Plant Hopper in Rice Crop B. Sampath Reddy 87.pdf','',1,'The present study on evaluation of insecticides for the management of brown plant hopper and white backed plant hopper in rice crop was undertaken at Agriculture Research Station, Sakoli, Bhandara district during kharif 2021. The experimental plot was laid out in Randomized Block Design (RBD) incorporating seventeen treatments along with control consisting of seed treatment of Thiamethoxam 25 % WG, nursery application at one week before of Carbofuran 3% CG, Fipronil 0.3 % GR, Chlorantraniliprole 0.4 % GR, main field application at 22 DAT of Carbofuran 3 % CG, Fipronil 0.3% GR, Chlorantraniliprole 0.4% GR, Cartap hydrochloride 4 % GR, Chlorpyrifos 10% GR, Thiamethoxam 25% WG (seed treatment) + Fipronil 0.3 % GR (main field), Thiamethoxam 25% WG (seed treatment) + Chlorantraniliprole 0.4 % GR (main field), Thiamethoxam 25% WG (seed treatment) + Cartap hydrochloride 4 % GR (main field), Thiamethoxam 25% WG (seed treatment) + Chlorpyrifos 10 % GR (main field), Fipronil 0.3% GR (nursery) + Chlorantraniliprole 0.4 GR % (main field), Fipronil 0.3% GR (nursery) + Cartap hydrochloride 4 % GR (main field), Fipronil 0.3 % GR (nursery) + Chlorpyrifos 10 % GR (main field). The results clearly revealed that Chlorantraniliprole 0.4% GR (main field) was most promising in controlling brown plant hopper and at par with treatment Carbofuran 3% CG (nursery), Chlorpyrifos 10% GR (main field), Chlorantraniliprole 0.4% GR (main field) and Carbofuran 3% CG (nursery) was most promising in controlling white backed plant hopper and at par with Chlorantraniliprole 0.4% GR (nursery), Chlorpyrifos 10% GR (main field), Chlorantraniliprole 0.4% GR (main field). Highest yield was noticed in Chlorantraniliprole (main field) (44.33 q/ha) followed by Fipronil 0.3% GR (nursery) + Chlorantraniliprole 0.4% GR (main field) (38.59 q/ha) and Chlorpyrifos 10% GR (main field) (38.22 q/ha). ICBR is highest for Carbofuran 3% CG (nursery) followed by Chlorantraniliprole 0.4% GR (nursery), Fipronil 0.3% GR (nursery), Chlorpyrifos 10% GR (main field) and Thiamethoxam 25% WG (seed treatment).','Brown plant hopper, White backed plant hopper, Capsulated granules','The brown plant hopper was found to be the serious pest of paddy. Similarly, low incidence of white backed plant hopper was recorded. From the data it can be concluded that Chlorantraniliprole 0.4 % GR (Main Field) was effective in management of brown plant hopper and Carbofuran 3% CG (nursery) was effective in management of white backed plant hopper. Highest grain yield was recorded in plot treated with Chlorantraniliprole 0.4 % GR (Main Field) followed by Fipronil 0.3% GR (nursery) + Chlorantraniliprole 0.4% GR (main field), Chlorpyrifos 10% GR (main field), Fipronil 0.3% GR (nursery) + Chlorpyrifos 10% GR (main field), Thiamethoxam 25% WG (seed treatment) + Chlorpyrifos 10% GR (main field). Among different treatments, incremental cost benefit ratio in Carbofuran 3% CG (Nursery) was found highest followed by Chlorantraniliprole 0.4% GR (nursery), Fipronil 0.3% GR (nursery), Chlorpyrifos 10% GR (main field). Thus, the above insecticides are the better option to manage the brown plant hopper and white backed plant hopper of paddy.','-','B. Sampath Reddy, B.N. Chaudhari, Ch. Sowmya and P.N. Dawane (2022). Evaluation Of Insecticides for the Management of Brown Plant Hopper and White Backed Plant Hopper in Rice Crop. Biological Forum - An International Journal, 14(4a): 511-517.'),(5905,'148','Effect of Moisture Regimes on Growth and Root characteristics of Rice Cultivars under Aerobic condition in Summer Season','K. Indudhar Reddy, A. Zaman, Mahadev Pramanick, S.K. Patra and N.C. Das','Effect-of-Moisture-Regimes-on-Growth-and-Root-characteristics-of-Rice-Cultivars-under-Aerobic-condition-in-Summer-Season-3.pdf','',1,'A field experiment was conducted at Regional Research Station, Gayeshpur, West Bengal to study the effect of moisture regimes on the rice cultivars under aerobic condition in summer season during 2012 and 2013. The farm is located at 22°57N latitude, 88°20E longitude and at an elevation of 9.75 m above sea level. The experiment was conducted on sandy clay loam soil. The experiment was laid in split plot design replicated thrice. The treatments consisted of four irrigation regimes in main plots viz., I1: scheduling of irrigation at 60-70 % field capacity (FC) throughout the season, I2: scheduling of irrigation at 80-90 % FC throughout the season, I3: scheduling of irrigation at 60-70 % FC at vegetative stage and at 80-90 % FC at reproductive stage and I4: Control. (maintaining at 100% FC) and three varieties in sub plots viz., V1: Satabdi, V2: Khitish and V3: IR 36. The experiment was conducted to study the effect of irrigation regimes on the rice cultivars and their response under aerobic condition. The results revealed that crop under I4 (maintaining at 100 % FC) treatment recorded higher plant height at harvest (91.85 cm), drymatter accumulation at harvest (883.47 g m-2), leaf area index at flowering stage (4.33), root length (27.53 cm), root volume (14.15 cc hill-1) and root dry weight (139.73 g m-2) than that of other irrigation treatments. Among the varieties, V2 (Khitish) registered higher plant height at harvest (100.87 cm), drymatter accumulation at harvest (796.78 g m-2), leaf area index at flowering (4.11), root length (26.53 cm), root volume (13.88 cc hill-1) and root dry weight (131.81 g m-2) than that of V1 (Satabdi) and V3 (IR 36).','Aerobic rice, irrigation regimes, rice varieties, growth parameters, root characteristics','Perusal of the results on effect of moisture regimes on aerobic rice growth reveals that growth attributes of aerobic rice viz., plant height, drymatter accumulation and leaf area index was significantly influenced by the irrigation regimes. From the pooled data, it was found that aerobic rice under I4 (maintaining at 100 % FC) treatment recorded higher plant height at harvest (91.85 cm), drymatter accumulation at harvest (883.47 g m-2) and leaf area index at flowering stage (4.33) than that of under I1 (scheduling of irrigation at 60-70 % FC throughout the season), I2 (scheduling of irrigation at 80-90 % FC throughout the season) and I3 (scheduling of irrigation at 60-70 % FC at vegetative stage and at 80-90 % FC at reproductive stage). Root characteristics of aerobic rice were significantly influenced by the irrigation regimes. From the pooled data, it was revealed that root length (27.53 cm), root volume (14.15 cc hill-1) and root dry weight (139.73 g m-2) of aerobic rice was higher under I4 (maintaining at 100% FC) treatment than remaining irrigation treatments.\r\nAmong the three tested varieties, V2 (Khitish) registered higher growth attributes viz., plant height at harvest (100.87 cm), drymatter accumulation at harvest (796.78 g m-2) and leaf area index at flowering (4.11) than that of V1 (Satabdi) and V3 (IR 36). Root characters were significantly different among the varieties. From the pooled data, it can be revealed that root length (26.53 cm), root volume (13.88 cc hill-1) and root dry weight (131.81 g m-2) of rive variety V2 (Khitish) was significantly higher than the corresponding values in V1 (Satabdi) and V3 (IR 36).','-','K. Indudhar Reddy, A. Zaman, Mahadev Pramanick, S.K. Patra and N.C. Das (2023). Effect of Moisture Regimes on Growth and Root characteristics of Rice Cultivars under Aerobic Condition in Summer Season. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 15(1): 14-19.'),(5906,'148','Performance of Elite Floribunda Rose Cultivars for Yield, Yield Parameters, Economics and Consumer Acceptability for Consecutive Two Years under North Eastern Transitional Zone of Karnataka','Vijayalaxmi G.P., Seetaramu G.K., Imamsaheb Jatth and Ganeshgouda Patil','Performance-of-Elite-Floribunda-Rose-Cultivars-for-Yield,-Yield-Parameters,-Economics-and-Consumer-Acceptability-for-Consecutive-Two-Years-under-North-Eastern-Transitional-Zone-of-Karnataka-Imamsaheb-S-4.pdf','',1,'An investigation on performance of Floribunda Rose cultivars North Eastern Transitional Zone of Karnataka. The cultivars viz., Aishwarya Cherishma, Five Star, Kelly, Mirabel, Orange Babe, Palm D More, Ruby Gon, Ruby Star, Vanish and Yellow Babe were taken for study. The cultivar Cherishma was recorded maximum 100 flower weight of 258.64 followed by Palm D More (248.67 g) and Five Star (247.25 g) which were statistically on par with each other in the pooled mean. While cultivar Yellow Babe (182.77 g) recorded lower 100 flower weight. Among the cultivars evaluated, the cv. Cherishma recorded maximum flower yield per hectare (4.01tonne) and this found to be on par with cv. Five Star with the yield of 3.61 tonnes per hectare. While minimum yield per hectare was recorded in cv. Vanish (2.26 tonnes per hectare). Cherishma realized maximum gross returns (Rs. 2224653) and net returns (Rs. 1356008), and maximum benefit to cost ratio (B: C) of 2.56. The information regarding the performance of rose genotypes under open field condition in North Eastern Transitional Zone of Karnataka is meager. Hence, the present investigation was carried out to collect the informations regarding these aspects which will be useful for rose breeders to select the desirable genotypes and for rose growing farmers to economize their production.','Floribunda rose, Yield, Economics and Consumer acceptability','Thus, from the present study considering the better performance in terms of flower colour, shape, yield and economics of floribunda rose, cultivars Cherishma, Mirabel and Five Star were found superior over the rest of the cultivars, was suitable for open cultivation under North Eastern Transitional Zone of Karnataka.','-','Vijayalaxmi G.P., Seetaramu G.K., Imamsaheb Jatth and Ganeshgouda Patil (2023). Performance of Elite Floribunda Rose Cultivars for Yield, Yield Parameters, Economics and Consumer Acceptability for Consecutive Two Years under North Eastern Transitional Zone of Karnataka. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 15(1): 20-23.'),(5907,'147','Effect of Seed Treatment and Foliar Nutrition on Plant Height, Leaf Area Index and Dry Matter Partitioning of Blackgram','Niharika Das*, M. Ratnam, S. Prathibhasree and P. Mohana Rao','Effect-of-Seed-Treatment-and-Foliar-Nutrition-on-Plant-Height,-Leaf-Area-Index-and-Dry-Matter-Partitioning-of-Blackgram-Niharika-Das-88.pdf','',1,'A field experiment was conducted at Agricultural College Farm, Bapatla during rabi 2021-22 to evaluate the effect of foliar nutrition and seed treatment on plant height, leaf area index and dry matter partitioning of blackgram under rainfed conditions of Andhra Pradesh. The soil subjected to the rainfed conditions are devoid of adequate amount of moisture. So, even though the fertilizers are applied through soil in adequate time and quantity, the fertilizer use efficiency decreases due to insufficient soil moisture availability. The soils of the experimental field was low in available nitrogen, medium in P2O5, high in K2O, low in organic matter and neutral to slightly alkaline in reaction. The experiment was laid out in randomized block design with nine treatment combination with foliar nutrition and seed treatment. The experimental data indicated that foliar nutrition and seed treatment significantly influenced the plant height, leaf area index (LAI) and dry matter partitioning of blackgram under rainfed conditions. The seed treatment with PPFMs @10 ml kg-1 seed fb foliar spray of 10:8:34:2 (N: P: K: S) @10 g l-1 at 45 and 60 DAS in addition to the RDF significantly recorded more plant height, LAI and dry matter at 60 DAS and harvest which was on a par with seed treatment with PPFMs @10 ml kg-1 seed fb foliar spray of 24:24:0:11(N: P: K: Zn) @10 g litre-1 at 30 40 DAS in addition to RDF (T8) and foliar spray of 10:8:34:2 (N: P: K: S) @10 g litre-1 at 45 and 60 DAS in addition to RDF (T6).','Blackgram, PPFMs, Foliar nutrition, Rainfed, LAI','From the experimental results it can be concluded that the Foliar application of 10:8:34:2 (N:P:K:S) @ 10 g litre-1 applied at 45 and 60 DAS when combined with seed treatment with PPFMs @ 10g kg-1 seeds in addition to RDF recorded significantly highest growth parameters in terms of plant height (cm), Leaf Area Index, and Total drymatter production (kg ha-1). However the results were on a par with the foliar nutrition of 24:24:0:11 (N: P: K: Zn) @ 10 g litre-1 applied at 30 and 40 DAS.','-','Niharika Das, M. Ratnam, S. Prathibhasree and P. Mohana Rao (2022). Effect of Seed Treatment and Foliar Nutrition on Plant Height, Leaf Area Index and Dry Matter Partitioning of Blackgram. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 14(4a): 518-520.'),(5908,'147','Studies on Physico-Chemical properties and Sensory Attributes during Storage of Pomace Powder Incorporated Nutria-Enriched Bread','Rama Maurya, Renu Mogra, Komal Ojha and Sandeep K. Mauriya','Studies-on-Physico-Chemical-properties-and-Sensory-Attributes-during-Storage-of-Pomace-Powder-Incorporated-Nutria-Enriched-Bread-Rama-Maurya-89.pdf','',1,'The present study aims to check the proximate composition and sensory scores during storage of pineapple pomace incorporated bread in the ratio of (5%, 10%, 15% and 20%). Proximate content of bread control and pineapple pomace incorporated bread multigrain viz. carbohydrate, protein, fat, energy, fiber, ash analyzed. Minerals content, calcium and iron were analyzed. Decrease were found in sensory score significantly (p<0.05) during storage. The prepared bread was packed in heat-sealed and vacuum packaging method their effect on the quality of products were analyzed during storage and changes were noted at the 5th day interval throughout the entire storage period in control and treated samples up to 15 days. Among the treatments, the bread prepared with (10%) pineapple pomace powder had the highest sensory score, having an overall acceptability score of 8.67±0.55 on 9 points hedonic scale. The shelf life evaluation showed that the bread could be stored for 15 days without any preservative, at the ambient condition of average temperature at 30±1°C and RH 75-80 with acceptable quality. The developed product is rich in protein, fiber which is act as functional food minerals such as calcium and iron, as compare to refined flour bread.','Pineapple Pomace, Bread, Proximate, Sensory Score, Shelf life','Pineapple pomace incorporated multigrain bread can be a better way for enriching the quality of breads. PPP incorporated bread are full of flavour bread, it can add the natural flovour to bread. The result revealed that 5 percent pineapple pomace powder incorporated bread had the highest overall quality during the storage compared to other treatment combinations. Therefore 5 percent pineapple pomace powder incorporated bread stored for 15 days at the ambient temperature of 30±1oC and 75-80 percent RH, without adding any preservative. Pineapple pomace incorporated bread relatively more nutrient dense than plain bread, high in fiber, protein and calcium etc.','-','Rama Maurya, Renu Mogra, Komal Ojha and Sandeep K. Mauriya (2022). Studies on Physico-Chemical properties and Sensory Attributes during Storage of Pomace Powder Incorporated Nutria-Enriched Bread. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 14(4a): 521-525.'),(5909,'147','Analysis of Genetic Diversity in Linseed (Linum usitatissimum L.) Genotypes','Subhash Chand, Sandhya, Manoj Kumar, Yamini Tak and H.P. Meghwal','Analysis-of-Genetic-Diversity-in-Linseed-(Linum-usitatissimum-L.)-Genotypes-Subhash-Chand-90.pdf','',1,'The present investigation was carried out to determine genetic diversity among thirty Linseed (Linum usitatissimum L.) genotypes during Rabi2019-20 at Research farm, College of Agriculture, Agriculture University, Kota. Divergence analysis is helpful in identifying diverse parents for realizing high heterotic effects with transgressive segregants in later generations. Thirty genotypes were grouped into six clusters. Cluster I constituted maximum number of genotype followed by cluster III, cluster II, cluster V, cluster IV and cluster VI. Cluster V (173.32) had the highest intra-cluster distance followed by cluster I (112.05), cluster III (85.66), cluster II (69.72), cluster IV (0.00) and cluster VI (0.00).Cluster IV and VI (1728.35) had the highest inter-cluster distance followed by cluster I and VI (1062.19) and cluster III and IV (947.45). Suggested that the genotypes from these cluster may use hereafter be as a parents for future hybridization programme to obtain heterotic recombinants or even transgressive segregants.','Cluster analysis, D2 statistics, Linseed, Genetic Diversity','The experiment suggested that a considerable extent of genetic divergence was present among 30 genotypes of linseed. Cluster V had the highest intra cluster distance followed by cluster I, III and cluster II. The intra-cluster distance for cluster IV and VI was observed to zero since these contains one genotype. The highest inter-cluster distance was found between cluster IV and VI followed by cluster I and VI, cluster III and IV.Maximum mean value was observed in cluster II for characters like protein content. Clusters IV had high values for plant height, number of primary branches per plant, oil content and also desirable for early flowering and maturity. Characters viz., harvest index, test weight and number of capsules per plant had maximum values in Cluster V. Similarly, characters viz., number of seeds per capsule, seed yield per plant, biological yield per plant had maximum values in cluster VI. Therefore, hybridization between the selected genotypes form divergent clusters is crucial to wisely combine all the targeted traits. Nevertheless, maximum contribution to divergence was given by oil content, followed by test weight and protein content. Hence, these characters should be taken under consideration for future breeding program.','-','Subhash Chand, Sandhya, Manoj Kumar, Yamini Tak and H.P. Meghwal (2022). Analysis of Genetic Diversity in Linseed (Linum usitatissimum L.) Genotypes. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 14(4a): 526-529.'),(5910,'147','Development of Fibre Enriched Kulfi','Yogeshwari R., Sivakumar G.M., Ayyavoo Preamnath Manoharan and Geetha P.','Development of Fibre Enriched Kulfi Yogeshwari R-91.pdf','',1,'The present study aims to develop the fibre enriched kulfi with inulin. Frozen dessert (kulfi) was prepared from milk, sugar, khoa and inulin at the levels of (2 per cent, 4 per cent and 6 per cent). The inclusion level of inulin was standardized based on sensory evaluation. The developed fibre enriched kulfi was analyzed for physico-chemical properties and proximate composition such as moisture, fat, carbohydrates, protein, fibre and ash. Sensory evaluation revealed that sample T2 contain 4 per cent inulin sample was superior among all the samples. From the present investigation, it was concluded that frozen dessert (kulfi) prepared with inulin at the level of 4% having good sensory quality attributes and nutritional quality.','Kulfi, Fibre, Inulin, Fibre enriched kulfi, Organoleptic qualities, Proximate composition','Since inulin has been made available as an ingredient for use in the food business, it has been employed in a wide range of food products for both its technological and nutritional advantages, incorporation of these into frozen dessert (kulfi) will add health benefits. As consumption of kulfi is becoming popular worldwide, this kind of kulfi will supply essential nutrition as well as health benefits. Fibre content of developed fibre enriched kulfi were significantly higher than control kulfi.','-','Yogeshwari R., Sivakumar G.M., Ayyavoo Preamnath Manoharan and Geetha P. (2022). Development of Fibre Enriched Kulfi. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 14(4a): 530-534.'),(5911,'147','Soil Fertility Evaluation and GPS-GIS based Soil Nutrient Mapping of Maddikonda Village, Aswaraopet, Telangana','M. Ram Prasad, K.G.K. Murthy, Kadasiddapa. M.M., L. Raja, S. Madusudan Reddy and R. Ramesh','Soil-Fertility-Evaluation-and-GPS-GIS-based-Soil-Nutrient-Mapping-of-Maddikonda-Village,-Aswaraopet,-Telangana-M-92.pdf','',1,'Soil and land resources of Maddikonda village are diversified in nature and characteristics in supplying nutrients and providing necessary anchorage for the crop growth and development. There are number of variations in growth and disparities in the packages adopted by farmers. In the study area as a result of non-addition of organic manures, and primarily depending on chemical fertilizers, most of the soils exhibiting number of nutrient deficiencies i.e. N,P,K. The increasing nutrient deficiency retards the crop growth, yield and their quality characteristics. Keeping in view of problem, in the present investigation the fertility status of the soils of Maddikonda village, Bhadradri Kothagudem district of Telangana was evaluated on key parameters viz., physico-chemical, available macro nutrient status using Nutrient Index approach by analysing 131 surface soil samples for pH, Electrical Conductivity (EC), Organic Carbon (O.C.), Nitrogen (N), Phosphorus (P) and Potassium (K). The Results of the study revealed that soils of the soils of Maddikonda village are very strongly acidic to neutral in reaction (4.19 to 7.54) with a soluble salt content ranges from 0.02 to 0.24 dS m-1 (Non-saline) and organic carbon content varied from 0.39 to 0.52% (low in status). The nitrogen status varied from 88.2 to 403.2 kg ha-1 and most of the soils of field cropped area are low in nitrogen status, soil phosphorus status ranged from 6.5 to 88.6 kg ha-1 and most of the soils are medium to high in phosphorus and potassium ranges between 57.8 to 310.1 kg ha-1 which indicates low to medium in potassium status. ','Nutrients index, soil physico chemical properties, nutrient mapping','From the above results it concluded that Maddikonda village is having neutral to strongly acidic soils which are non saline soil and low in organic carbon content. In terms of macro nutrient content soils are low to medium in nitrogen content, medium to high in phosphorous availability and low to medium in potassium availability. These map details will further, help in fertilizer recommendation and helps in improving the crop yield and sustainability.','-','M. Ram Prasad, K.G.K. Murthy, Kadasiddapa. M.M., L. Raja, S. Madusudan Reddy and R. Ramesh (2022). Soil Fertility Evaluation and GPS-GIS based Soil Nutrient Mapping of Maddikonda Village, Aswaraopet, Telangana. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 14(4a): 535-537.'),(5912,'148','Management of Fungal Foliar Diseases of Bt. Cotton','Kulkarni V.R. and Sabeena I.B.','Management-of-Fungal-Foliar-Diseases-of-Bt.-Cotton-5.pdf','',1,'Cotton is an important commercial crop vulnerable to many foliar diseases, among them grey mildew and Alternaria leaf blight are most severe and frequently occurring diseases and responsible for major yield loss. In recent years combiproducts are available in the market to manage more than one disease by using single chemical. So efforts were made to evaluate the combiproducts to manage the two important cotton fungul foliar diseases like Alternaria blight and grey mildew a field experiment was carried out under rainfed situation at agricultural research station Dharwad during 2017-18 and 2018-19. The Pooled and economic analysis of the two years data revealed that, three sprays of Trifloxystrobin 25% + Tebuconazole 50% @ 0.5g/l on 60, 75 and 90 DAS was found effective in management of Alternaria leaf blight and grey mildew diseases of Bt. cotton. Whereas the PDI of Alternaria leaf blight was 11.41% and grey mildew was 6.82% with highest yield of 1702.68 kg/ha and also gave B:C attractive ratio (2.05) with more net returns in comparison with control. Whereas, control recorded PDI of 46.11% and 36.30% for Alternaria leaf blight and grey mildew respectively by recording lowest yield (939.67 kg/ha). The spraying of Trifloxystrobin 25% + Tebuconazole 50% @ 0.5g/l can be recommended as one of component of integrated management of both the diseases in cotton.','Alternaria blight, grey mildew, PDI, benefit cost ratio','Trifloxystrobin 25% + Tebuconazole 50% @ 0.5 g/l was found cost effective with high cost benefit ratio of 2.05, followed by Propiconazole 25% EC @ 1.0 g/l (1.99). Whereas, Difenconazole 25% EC @ 1.0 g/l was least cost effective with cost benefit ratio of 1.65:1.','-','Kulkarni V.R. and Sabeena I.B. (2023). Management of Fungal Foliar Diseases of Bt. Cotton. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 15(1): 24-27.'),(5913,'147','The Lesser Mouse-tailed Bat (Rhinopoma hardwickii)– A Potential Bio Control Agent in Suppression of Insect Pests in Rice','Vanam Sunitha, Venkateshwarlu Panjugula, Mandla Rajashekhar, Ravinder Reddy Vakiti, Aruna Sri Issai, Baja Naresh, Vasudeva Rao Vaidyula and AVLNR Rao ','The-Lesser-Mouse-tailed-Bat-(Rhinopoma-hardwickii)-A-Potential-Bio-Control-Agent-in-Suppression-of-Insect-Pests-in-Rice-93.pdf','',1,'Insectivorous bats are highly effective generalist predators, and studies have documented the presence of many agricultural pest species in their diet. Hence an attempt was made to know the role of insectivorous bats in suppression of insect pests in rice crop. During the period a survey was conducted in rice growing areas of Rangareddy district and also identified roosting sites of lesser mouse-tailed bat near these locations. A total of 18 bat pellets were collected from the roosting site and analysed by using standard protocols and images were taken by stereo micro scope. Similarly light traps were placed in rice fields and collected data in respective locations. The insect data available in the light trap was correlated with the occurrence in bat pellets. Analysis of 18 pellets resulted in to 437 prey items as bat foods. Among the 437 prey items highest prey items were recorded by Coleopteran insects (112) followed by Diptera (98), Lepidoptera (62), Orthoptera (38), Hymonoptera (35) Hemiptera (26), Homoptera (14) and unidentified with 52 prey items. The light trap data showed that the diet of the bat closely related to availability of prey in the study area. This relationship represents opportunistic hunting by bats in rice habitats as reasonably characterized by prey availability. The presence of 88% insects found in the diet of bat pellets in the present study indicates their potential in regulating insect populations in crop fields as one of the component in Integrated pest management. By providing adequate roosting sites in preserving mature tree species and creating awareness among the public would enhance the population and conservation of insectivorous bats. ','Insectivorous, Bats, Paddy ecosystem, Bio-control agent, Insect pests and Survey','Supporting nearby caves and other non-crop habitat is a bat-friendly agriculture practice. Maintaining tree lines and forest patches with a variety of plants can aid in creating habitat for species that live in caves. Additionally, keeping existing dead trees in place and refraining from demolishing ancient buildings (such as barns) where bats may be roosting will assist sustain the availability of bat habitat. Installing bat houses all throughout a farm gives these kinds of bats a great environment and can generate significant maternity colonies. So it is high time to conserve the bats which are act as a potential natural biocontrol agent in suppressing the agricultural important pests in field & horticultural crops.','-','Vanam Sunitha, Venkateshwarlu Panjugula, Mandla Rajashekhar, Ravinder Reddy Vakiti, Aruna Sri Issai, Baja Naresh, Vasudeva Rao Vaidyula and AVLNR Rao (2022). The Lesser Mouse-tailed Bat (Rhinopoma hardwickii)– A Potential Bio Control Agent in Suppression of Insect Pests in Rice. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 14(4a): 537-540.'),(5914,'148','Physico-chemical Evaluation of the Squash prepared from different Varieties of Peach','Navin Singh, Karimullah, Sampurna Nand Singh and Shreshtha Chandra','Physico-chemical-Evaluation-of-the-Squash-prepared-from-different-Varieties-of-PeachSampurna-Nand-Singh-6.pdf','',1,'An investigation was conducted in 2020-21 to evaluate the physio-chemical characteristics of the postharvest product i.e., squash of three cultivars of freshly harvested mature fruits of peach cvs. Florda Prince, Early Grande and Shan-e-Punjab. It was found that maximum TSS (47.27), titratable acidity (1.52) and ascorbic acid (13.71) was obtained by combination of 35% Pulp and 45% sugar concentrations in Shan-e-Punjab cultivar followed by Early Grande while lowest TSS occurred with 25% pulp + 40% sugar level in most of the combinations. The maximum reducing sugar (4.77) and total sugar (20.69) was obtained by combination of 35% Pulp and 45% sugar concentrations in Florda Prince cultivar followed by Early Grande cultivar while it was found minimum in Shan-e-Punjab cultivar with the combination of 25% Pulp and 40% sugar. It has very challenges to identifying the good variety of peach for the preparation of better squash. According to the study, the low chill peach cultivars Shan-e-Punjab and Florda Prince may be suggested for the creation of squash with a formulation of 35% pulp, 40% sugar, and 1% acid in order to satisfy customer taste and preferences.','Postharvest, Physio-chemical, Squash Florda Prince, Early Grande, Shan-e-Punjab','Evaluation of promising low chill peach cultivars for making of beverages could make growing of peaches viable in the low altitude areas. From the study, it may be concluded that peach cultivar Shan-e-Punjab and Florda Prince may be recommended for the preparation of squash having formulation of 35 per cent pulp, 40 per cent sugar and 1.0 per cent acid among the low chill cultivars of peach to satisfy consumer taste and preferences. The processing is simple and biochemical analysis indicates that peach is a good source of protein, minerals and energy. The nutritional value of peach squash is quite fulfilling according to health point of view.','-','Navin Singh, Karimullah, Sampurna Nand Singh and Shreshtha Chandra (2023). Physico-chemical Evaluation of the Squash prepared from different Varieties of Peach. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 15(1): 28-35.'),(5915,'148','Evaluation of Taro (Colocasia esculenta L.) Genotypes for Growth, Yield and Quality Attributes under the Hill Zone of Karnataka','Sangeeta, Devaraju, G.K. Latha, B. Arunkumar, C.S. Ravi, Y. Kantharaj and H.S. Yallesh Kumar ','Evaluation-of-Taro-_Colocasia-esculenta-L._-Genotypes-for-Growth,-Yield-and-Quality-Attributes-under-the-Hill-Zone-of-Karnataka-G.K. Latha-7.pdf','',1,'Colocasia is not being commercially grown under hill zone of Karnataka due to lack of suitable varieties and standard production technologies. Under given agro-climatic conditions, it is important to study the performance of varieties and to identify the best genotypes of colocasia with desirable characteristics for this zone. Twenty genotypes of colocasia were evaluated during Rabi 2020-21 at the College of Horticulture, Mudigere for their growth, yield and quality attributes. The experiment was laid out in a randomized complete block design with three replication. The analysis of variance exhibited highly significant differences among the genotypes for all the characters under study. Among the twenty genotypes evaluated, Piriyapattana Local performed better for most of the characteristics like plant height, number of leaves per plant, leaf length, leaf breadth, petiole length, petiole girth, leaf area, leaf area index, number of corms per plant, corm weight, corm yield per plant, tuber yield per plant, total sugars, protein and dry matter. Based on the mean performance, the genotypes Piriyapattana Local, Kushalnagar Local and Hyderabad Local are superior and high-yielding genotypes under the hill zone of Karnataka.','Colocasia, Corm, Cormel, Growth, Yield, Quality','The present investigation revealed that a considerable degree of variability exists among the different genotypes of taro for growth, yield and quality traits. The best-performing genotypes identified from the present study based on the mean performance are Piriyapattana Local, Kushalnagar Local and Hyderabad Local with respect to yield characteristics. These genotypes may be recommended for commercial cultivation under the hill zone of Karnataka after yield stability analysis.','-','Sangeeta, Devaraju, G.K. Latha, B. Arunkumar, C.S. Ravi, Y. Kantharaj and H.S. Yallesh Kumar (2023). Evaluation of Taro (Colocasia esculenta L.) Genotypes for Growth, Yield and Quality Attributes under the Hill Zone of Karnataka. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 15(1): 36-41.'),(5916,'147','Seed Rate and Sowing Method induced Variation in Phenology, Seed Yield and Seed Quality of Soybean [Glycine max (L.) Merill]','Madhana Keerthana S, R. Shiv Ramakrishnan, Ashish Kumar, Nidhi Pathak, P.S. Pawar and Dibakar Ghosh','Seed-Rate-and-Sowing-Method-induced-Variation-in-Phenology,-Seed-Yield-and-Seed-Quality-of-Soybean-[Glycine-max-_L-94.pdf','',1,'Soybean is highly sensitive to soil moisture stress. Due to climate change, erratic weather events hamper soybean production and productivity by disturbing the plant’s phenology, metabolism, and other physiological processes. Different seed rates, tillage, and drainage methods may have a high impact on the phenology and productivity of Soybean. Under flatbed sowing, the plant root will suffer from water logging due to high rainfall. In M.P., farmers apply high seed rates and narrow spacing of plants and rows to avoid less plant populations\' risk. Under prevailing high-density planting, at the seed rate of 70 kg ha-1 and flatbed sowing method, plant growth is restricted due to limitation of radiation and nutrients. Hence, the seed rate and sowing method need revision in an era of climate change. Therefore, we hypothesized that adopting a lower seed rate under ridges and furrow sowing would improve phenology, seed yield, and seed quality over the prevailing seed rate of 70 kg ha-1 and the flatbed sowing method. Studies revealed that phenological development was significantly affected by seed rate during the entire span of Soybean. The minimal increment of 2.05 %, 2.53% on days to flower initiation, days to 50% flowering was observed in 50 kg ha-1. For seed quality attributes, 60 kg ha-1 was found to be superior in the enhancement of germination percentage (1.88%) and seedling length (2.36%) over control (70 kg ha-1). Ridges and furrows sowing method exhibited superiority for seed quality attributes in terms of enhancement in germination percentage (4.56%), seedling length (2.20%), vigour index I (1.46%), and vigour index II (3.0%). This proves our hypothesis that a lower seed rate of 60 kg ha-1 under ridges and furrows sowing method leads to improved seed yield and seed quality over 70 kg ha-1 flatbed sowing method. Hence, a reduced seed rate of 60 kg ha-1 under ridges and furrows sowing method has been recommended for realizing optimum soybean seed yield and quality under changing climate scenario.','Seed rate, sowing method, phenology, seed quality traits, soybean','Seed yield (g plant-1) is maximum at a reduced seed rate of 60 kg ha-1 due to reduced days to flower initiation, pod formation, and seed formation, physiological maturity and harvest maturity. Seed yield (g plant-1) is superior for ridges and furrows over the flatbed sowing method by 9.79%. The superiority of lower seed rate in seed yield per plant is due to the rapid progression of phenological stages, which might be due to lower plant density and better availability of light and radiation to the canopy. Seed yield (kg ha-1) is maximum at a higher seed rate of 70 kg ha-1 due to the higher plant population. Seed quality attributes viz., germination percentage and seedling length, seed vigour, i.e., seed vigour index I and II are not affected due to variation in seed rate, sowing method, and interaction. ','-','Madhana Keerthana S, R. Shiv Ramakrishnan, Ashish Kumar, Nidhi Pathak, P.S. Pawar and Dibakar Ghosh (2022). Seed Rate and Sowing Method induced Variation in Phenology, Seed Yield and Seed Quality of Soybean [Glycine max (L.) Merill]. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 14(4a): 541-547.'),(5917,'147','Cropping Pattern of Odisha','Arati Priyadarshini, Sarba Narayan Mishra, Abhiram Dash and Subrat Pattanaik','Cropping-Pattern-of-Odisha-Arati-Priyadarshini-95.pdf','',1,'The study was undertaken in Cuttack and Sundargarh district of Odisha to analyse the cropping pattern of the state. The study was based on secondary data. The secondary data was collected from Odisha Agriculture Statistics. To study cropping pattern of the state, per cent of Gross Cropped Area was calculated over a period of time. It was observed that post economic reforms the percentage of GCA in the state under rice has decreased over the years by 3 per cent. The area under cereals other than paddy has also decreased and been diverted towards other crops. Area under pulses has significantly increased by nearly 3 per cent.','Diversification, trend, Cropping Pattern, Compound Growth Rate','On the basis of the analysis, the paper offers the following conclusion:\r\nThere has been a sluggish rise in crop diversification in Odisha. Diversification has taken place from paddy to non-paddy crops in Odisha. Odisha still remains a paddy dominated state but farmers have started diversifying the area under paddy towards pulses and oilseeds. The gross cropped area in most parts of the study area is decreasing because area under agriculture is now being diverted for infrastructure development. Youths are more interested in service sector than in agriculture sector as the latter is less remunerative.Since the dependence on crop agriculture is not very high in the area due to the overwhelming contribution of service sector, agricultural activities need to made more productive and lucrative, more so from the view point of young generation through incentivizing them in all possible ways. This study would help Govt of Odisha in policy formulation. \r\n','-','Arati Priyadarshini, Sarba Narayan Mishra, Abhiram Dash and Subrat Pattanaik (2022). Cropping Pattern of Odisha. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 14(4a): 548-550.'),(5918,'147','Optimization of Whey Protein Concentrate-Natural Deep Eutectic Solvents Based Edible Coating of Paneer','Nayuni Vandana, Esther Magdalene Sharon M., Sivakumar G.M. and Geetha P.','Optimization-of-Whey-Protein-Concentrate-Natural-Deep-Eutectic-Solvents-Based-Edible-Coating-of-Paneer-Esther-Magdalene-Sharon-M-96.pdf','',1,'Paneer is an indigenous milk product coagulated using heat and acid. It is very perishable, with a shelf life of 6 days at refrigeration temperature, although its quality is lost within three days due to spoilage by psychrotrophs, coliforms, yeasts, and moulds. The short shelf life of paneer has remained a main hurdle in its large-scale production and transportation to far-off places from the production plants. Paneer is a rich source of high-quality protein, minerals, fat and vitamins. The present study attempts to optimize the inclusion level of Whey Protein Concentrate - Natural Deep Eutectic Solvents (WPC-NADES) used for edible coating for the shelf-life extension of paneer. NADES have been identified to possess outstanding antimicrobial activity and are chemically and thermally stable against a wide range of spoilage and pathogenic microorganisms. Edible coating of paneer was done by dipping diced paneer cubes into a coating solution incorporating four different NADES solutions (Lactic acid: Fructose (LF); Lactic acid: Glucose (LG); Citric acid: Fructose (CF) and Citric acid: Glucose (CG))and whey protein concentrate (6, 8, 10, 12 and 14%) at 30 ± 1 for 10-15 min followed by drying. Response surface methodology (RSM) selected Lactic acid: Fructose (LF) NADES - 12% WPC coating as the optimized product based on the sensory score (texture, colour, and overall acceptability) for extending the shelf-life of paneer.','Paneer, Edible coatings, WPC, RSM, NADES','This study demonstrated that WPC-NADES-based edible coating doesn’t affect the sensory quality of paneer. Product with LF NADES and 12% WPC edible coating was optimized based on sensory scores of texture (8.625), colour (8.585) and overall acceptability (8.645). Minimum effects on sensory properties and high quality were provided by LF-12% WPC. The factorial models were found to be adequate, as there was no significant lack of fit in any of the response variables.','-','Nayuni Vandana, Esther Magdalene Sharon M., Sivakumar G.M. and Geetha P. (2022). Optimization of Whey Protein Concentrate-Natural Deep Eutectic Solvents Based Edible Coating of Paneer. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 14(4a): 551-558.'),(5919,'148','Incidence of Leaf Eating Beetle Podontia quatuordecimpunctata L. on Greater Hog plum (Spondias dulcis Forst.) in Gangetic Plains of West Bengal','Sabyasachi Ray and A. Banerjee','Incidence-of-Leaf-Eating-Beetle-Podontia-quatuordecimpunctata-L.-on-Greater-Hog-plum-(Spondias-dulcis-Forst.)-in-Gangetic-Plains-of-West-Bengal-A.-Banerjee-8.pdf','',1,'Greater hog plum (Spondias dulcis) or ‘biliti amra’, a minor fruit crop belongs to plant family Anacardiaceae. Besides, weather based population monitoring is necessary to forewarn the probable population build up of a specific pest for a region. Keeping the views in mind an experiment was conducted to study the pattern of incidence of one of its major pest, the chrysomelid leaf beetle (Podontia quatuordecimpunctata L.) in an unsprayed orchard located in the Gangetic plains of West Bengal during summer and kharif seasons. The experiment reveals that the leaf damage is done by both the adult and grub stages of the beetle. The beetle was noticed to occur on the crop from April to August along with two peak periods of infestation (1st week of June and 2nd week of July). The study reveals non-significant correlation between the pest population and the meteorological parameters taken into consideration.','Incidence, Podontia quatuordecimpunctata, Spondias dulcis, Weather parameters','The investigation concludes that chrysomelid foliage feeder (Podontia quatuordecimpunctata L.) is one of the major insect pests of greater hog plum in the Gangetic plains of West Bengal. Both the adult and grub stages of the insect are responsible for foliage damage. The beetle occurs in the orchard from April to August having two peak periods of infestation (first week of June and second week of July). The study also reveals non-significant association between the weather factors and pest population. The present finding may act as a stepping stone to develop weather based pest monitoring system of this minor but important fruit crop in future. ','-','Sabyasachi Ray and A. Banerjee (2023). Incidence of Leaf Eating Beetle Podontia quatuordecimpunctata L. on Greater Hog plum (Spondias dulcis Forst.) in Gangetic Plains of West Bengal. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 15(1): 42-47.'),(5920,'148','Morphometric Analysis of Ranganadi Watershed in Lakhimpur District of Assam, India, using Remote Sensing and GIS Techniques','Tilak Prasad Panika, Dilip Kumar Patgiri, Prem Kumar Bharteey, Rituparna Saikia and Dipankar Sonowal ','9Morphometric-Analysis-of-Ranganadi-Watershed-in-Lakhimpur-District-of-Assam,-India,-using-Remote-Sensing-and-GIS-Techniques-Tilak Prasad Panika-9.pdf','',1,'The present study makes an attempt to analyse the morphometric characteristics of the Ranganadi watershed in the Lakhimpur district of Assam, India. Such morphometric study helpsin understanding the proper utilization of natural resources of the watershed. The Ranganadi watershed, confining 12174 ha geographical area, is located between 93o5906.18\' E to 94°0508.55E longitude and 27°1036.40N to 27°2033.68N latitude. Using Geocoded FCC of Resourcesat-1 LISS-III data of 2015, three distinct physiographic units of the watershed were demarcated which consists of Piedmont plain (4192 ha), Alluvial plain (4808 ha), and Flood plain (3174 ha). The stream order map of the Ranganadi River Basin was made by on-screen digitization using TNTMips software. Morphometric properties of the studied catchment area were assessed through the measurement of linear, areal, and relief features. The drainage streams of the studied area were delineated up to Third order with stream numbers of 34, 17 and 6corresponding to I, II, and III orders, respectively. The calculated value of areal aspects like elongation ratio, circulatory ratio, form factor ratio and shape factor depicted that the Ranganadi watershed was elongated in shape. The studied relief features included parameters like basin relief, relief ratio, ruggedness number, and relative relief indicating that the basin is of lower relief, higher infiltration, lower runoff and less prone to erosion. The study of morphometric properties of the Ranganadi watershed highlights the permeable nature of the soil. This permeability property suggests that the majority of the precipitation would infiltrate the soil and, as a result, a lower quantity would contribute to the runoff. The current study also showed that the investigation of the linear and aerial morphometric features of drainage basins can be greatly aided by the use of geographic information system software.','GIS, Morphometric analysis, Remote sensing, Watershed','Remote sensing and GIS were utilised to analyse morphometric parameter of the Ranganadi watershed in Assam’s Lakhimpur District, India. Hydrological behaviour and landforms are linked by computing the watershed’s linear, areal and relief characteristics, which aids water management. According to morphometric research, the watershed has a third order drainage streams with 129.72 km in length. The watershed exhibits less structural disturbance due to the reduced bifurcation ratio and dendritic drainage pattern. High form factor, elongation ratio and circulatory ratio values suggested the watershed to be elongated in shape. Flooding and gully erosion are likely due to the poor drainage density. Watershed erosion priority may benefit from the analysis findings. The drainage morphology must be examined to locate and choose water storage facilities like percolation tanks, ponds, check dams etc. For micro-level natural resource management, this study will help planners and decision makers. Remote sensing and GIS are also more efficient and useful than traditional techniques for identifying drainage basins and updating drainage streams for stream morphometry analysis.','-','Tilak Prasad Panika, Dilip Kumar Patgiri, Prem Kumar Bharteey, Rituparna Saikia and Dipankar Sonowal (2023). Morphometric Analysis of Ranganadi Watershed in Lakhimpur District of Assam, India, using Remote Sensing and GIS Techniques. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 15(1): 48-56.'),(5921,'148','Effect of Rice Straw on Weed Populations, Biomass and Yield of Wheat under Zero and Conventional Tillage Practices','Nesar Ahmad Nesar, R. Puniya, B.R. Bazaya, Vikas Sharma, B.K. Sinha, Tuhina Dey and B.C. Sharma ','Effect-of-Rice-Straw-on-Weed-Populations,-Biomass-and-Yield-of-Wheat-under-Zero-and-Conventional-Tillage-Practices-NA Nesar-10.pdf','',1,'Weeds are unwanted and undesirable plants that absorb nutrients faster and in greater quantities than crop plants, reducing crop yield even at higher fertilizer rates. Consequently, promising weed management approaches are required to enhance wheat productivity. Keeping this in mind, afield experiment was conducted at Research Farm, Division of Agronomy, SKUAST- Jammu during Rabi season of 2020-21 to study the effect of rice straw on weed populations, biomass and wheat yield under zero and conventional tillage practices. The experiment was conducted in a factorial RBD comprising zero and conventional tillage as factor A and five paddy straw treatments viz., S1: 6t /ha paddy straw, S2: 6 t/ha paddy straw plus 25kg/ha extra nitrogen over recommended dose, S3: 6t/ha paddy straw plus PUSA decomposer, S4: 6t/ha paddy straw plus 25kg/ha extra nitrogen over recommended dose plus PUSA decomposer and S5: no straw (control) as factor B. The results revealed that zero tillage recorded considerably lower total weed population and biomass and higher grain and straw yield than conventional tillage. However, among paddy straw treatments, all straw containing treatments noted significantly inferior weed population and biomass as compared to no residue (control). Treatment S4: 6t/ha paddy straw plus 25 kg/ha extra nitrogen over recommended dose plus PUSA decomposer recorded significantly higher gain and straw yield as compared to other treatments but it was statistically at par with S2: 6 t/ha paddy straw plus 25 kg/ha extra nitrogen over recommended dose. Hence, it concluded that use of rice straw as mulch as is promising options for management of weeds and realizing higher wheat productivity instead of residue burning which cause numerous environmental and health issues.','Wheat productivity, weed population, Weed biomass, straw retention, straw incorporation and Tillage','Based on a one-year study, it was concluded total weed populations and biomass was significantly reduced under zero tillage as compared to conventional tillage. while, among residue management use of 6 t/ha paddy straw with 25 kg/ha extra nitrogen and PUSA decomposer observed significantly lower total weed populations and biomass and provided highest grain and straw yield. Therefore, use of paddy straw as mulch with zero tillage or incorporation with conventional tillage along with extra nitrogen and PUSA decomposer is an eco-friendly option for weed management in wheat, which increased wheat productivity. On other hand, it could be safe and environmentally friendly alternative to burning paddy straw, which has negative environmental and health consequences.','-','Nesar Ahmad Nesar, R. Puniya, B.R. Bazaya, Vikas Sharma, B.K. Sinha, Tuhina Dey and B.C. Sharma (2023). Effect of Rice Straw on Weed Populations, Biomass and Yield of Wheat under Zero and Conventional Tillage Practices. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 15(1): 57-63.'),(5922,'147','Effect of Selection Response on F2 and F3 Generation for Plant Height Character in Tomato MAGIC Population','Nayana R.S. and B. Fakrudin','Effect-of-Selection-Response-on-F2-and-F3-Generation-for-Plant-Height-Character-in-Tomato-MAGIC-Population-Nayana-RS-97.pdf','',1,'MAGIC (Multi parent advanced generation inter cross) breeding programme is the key to improve the traits like plant height in self pollinated crops like tomato (Solanum lycopersicum L.). Present investigation was planned to find the variability for plant height traits in MAGIC F2 and F3 populations. Using the observed variability present in the tomato MAGIC F2 population, the selection was done for the plant height trait. The mean value observed for plant height was 117.60 cm with a range of 38.00 cm to 181.00 cm in MAGIC F2 population. The trait followed normal distribution indicating the variability of a segregating population. And in MAGIC F3 population wide range of variation was observed for plant height as the mean values for each accession ranged from 37.40 cm to 181.60 cm with grand mean 110.09 cm. The effectiveness of selection for these characters was estimated in F3 generation and then compared with F2 generation thus found the expected response to the selection. This indicates the effectiveness of selecting plant height characters in early segregating generations. ','MAGIC, Variability, Tomato, Plant height, F2 and F3 generation','The parent, EC-538380 contributed to the indeterminate plant growth habit and the parent H-24 contributed to the determinate plant growth. Most of the MAGIC F2 and F3 individuals expressed the phenotype of indeterminate growth. A wide variability for the trait, plant height was observed in the both MAGIC F2 and F3 populations and followed a normal distribution. This investigation suggested that the selection for the plant height trait can be made in the early segregating generation, keeping aside the major quantitative characters as yield for selection in later generation.','-','Nayana R.S. and B. Fakrudin (2022). Effect of Selection Response on F2 and F3 Generation for Plant Height Character in Tomato MAGIC Population. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 14(4a): 559-563.'),(5923,'148','Preparation of Hand-Made Chocolates and the Nutritional Composition of its Ingredients','Fr. T. Amala Arockia Raj S.J., M. Muniya Naik, M. Rama Mohan, P. Ramesh Kumar, P.Venkata Vishwa Prasad, K. Chandra Mohan, R. Reddemma, D.Veera Nagendra Kumar, G. V i n a y C V S and V. Uday Kiran','Preparation-of-Hand-Made-Chocolates-and-the-Nutritional-Composition-of-its-Ingredients-V.-Uday-Kiran-11.pdf','',1,'Chocolate is an incredibly stable substance that, under normal circumstances, will last forever. The physical-chemical characteristics of chocolate made from native cocoa beans were compared to those of commercial chocolate, and the physical-chemical characteristics of cocoa beans were investigated after fermentation, drying, roasting and grinding. We looked at the sample nibs\' moisture, ash, fat, fiber, protein and tannin content. India\'s chocolate sector has made significant progress. India is home to numerous cocoa producers that provide a wide range of industrial and domestically produced chocolate-based goods. For the purpose of producing chocolate, cocoa beans are used to make cocoa powder and its byproducts. Therefore, their disposal could cause problems with the environment and the economy. For novel and useful dishes, cocoa powder may be a valuable component or additive. In the context of a circular economy, the value-adding of food byproducts is more important. A source of fiber (around 50% w/w), proteins, minerals, vitamins, and a wide variety of polyphenols., cocoa beans are also a possible supply. The purpose of this review is to examine the chemical and nutritive makeup of cocoa bean powder used in the production of chocolates and to re-evaluate the numerous uses that have been suggested in order to maximize the value of this byproduct for use in food, livestock feed, industrial applications, as well as critical care medicine. Studies reporting the bio-functional potential of cocoa powder for human health, such as antibacterial, antiviral, anti-carcinogenic, anti-diabetic, or neuroprotective activity, benefits for the cardiovascular system, or an anti-inflammatory capability, will receive particular attention. ','Chocolates, Cocoa by-product, Human health bioactivity, Flavonoids','Even though a finished chocolate product that was glossy, firm and polished was obtained, it appeared rough. This result suggested that additional research has to be done to obtain the smoothness of chocolate by reducing the particle size of cocoa powder using a set of rollers (contemporary refiners). High quality chocolates with 90% of the particles smaller than 20 micrometers can be produced by modern refiners.','-','Fr. T. Amala Arockia Raj S.J., M. Muniya Naik, M. Rama Mohan, P. Ramesh Kumar, P.Venkata Vishwa Prasad, K. Chandra Mohan, R. Reddemma, D.Veera Nagendra Kumar, G. V i n a y C V S and V. Uday Kiran (2023). Preparation of Hand-Made Chocolates and the Nutritional Composition of its Ingredients. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 15(1): 64-68.'),(5924,'147','Role of Amylase Enzyme in Poultry Feed','Ritu Khasa and Sushil Kumar','Role-of-Amylase-Enzyme-in-Poultry-Feed-Sushil Kumar-98.pdf','',1,'Poultry product’s consumption has risen over the years and demand will be more in developing countries. So the demand of feed and raw materials is the main concern of poultry industry. However maize and soyabean are the traditional feed ingredients but we can’t met the demand over the coming decades because feed remains the largest cost item in poultry production contributing to 60-70% of total expenses. Most of the ingredients used in poultry feed are also used for human nutrition, driving the costs up further. This leads to producers switching to local feed ingredients like sunflower meal, palm meal, wheat bran, rice bran, groundnut cake etc, which can adversely affect birds’ health and growth. Feed additives are seeing an increasing role in poultry nutrition as ways to improve feed utilization and simultaneously prevent diseases. About 15-25% of the total feed is not digested by the animals use since the feed contain some indigestible components and or the animal bodies lack the specific enzyme - to counter this problem feed enzyme additives play an important role. Amylases are the important food additives which increase the digestibility and nutritional value to improve the growth of poultry. Numerous studies have shown that supplementation of exogenous enzymes in wheat, barley, sorghum or triticale-based rations can improve performance of poultry to a level compared to that obtained by corn-soya-based rations. Naturally, the gastrointestinal tract of poultry produces enzymes to aid the digestion of nutrients. However, the birds do not have enough enzymes to digest fiber completely and need some commercial exogenous enzymes in the diets to improve the digestion.','Enzymes, Poultry feed, broilers, corn-soyabean meal and amylase','The use of enzymes as a feed additive has rapidly expanded. In the last decade, extensive studies have been conducted to study the effects of feeding exogenous enzymes on the performance of poultry. By compiling these studies into a single focused work, this review provides evidence that enzyme is a significant instrument for the use in poultry feed. Although the economic and social benefits of enzymes have been well established and the future of feed enzymes is a bright one. However, further research is required if enzymes are to reach their full potential in the industry and to answer some of the questions that this article raises, particularly those regarding the mode of action of enzymes, how best to match the levels of enzyme and substrate and how enzymes counter the variable environments in the animal\'s gut. Any advances in this field must ultimately improve the welfare of chickens, reduce the production of wastes and conserve resources. Poultry industry is becoming increasingly receptive to the use of exogenous enzymes supplementation. Enzyme supplementation to the poultry rations has a positive effect on feeds digestibility and leads to better productivity and performance. Moreover, supplementation of commercial enzymes can increase the nutritive value of feed ingredients and diets as well as allow greater flexibility in diet formulation. It has also a potential effect on mitigation of the environmental pollution by reducing the excretion of some elements such as nitrogen and phosphorus in poultry manure.\r\n\r\n','-','Ritu Khasa and Sushil Kumar (2022). Role of Amylase Enzyme in Poultry Feed. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 14(4a): 564-567.'),(5925,'147','Influence of Bio-fertilizer and Fertility Levels on Growth and Yield of Indian Mustard (Brassica juncea L.)','Sudhir Partap and Daksh Bishnoi','Influence-of-Bio-fertilizer-and-Fertility-Levels-on-Growth-and-Yield-of-Indian-Mustard-(Brassica-juncea-L.)-Sudhir-Partap-99.pdf','',1,'The field experiment was driven during Rabi 2018 at Research Farm, Selakui, Dehradun, Uttarakhand. The treatment consists of two different bio-fertilizers (Azotobacter and Phosforus solubilizing bacteria) and three different nutrient level 75% RDNP, 100% RDNP and 125% RDNP, whose effect was perceive on Indian mustard. The trial was laid out in Randomized Block Design in which consist of eight treatments which are replicated thrice. The outcome manifest that utilization azotobacter + PSB with 125% RDNP (N 112.5 7 P 50 kg/ha) remarkably increased the growth variables of Indian mustard viz, plant extent (174.76 cm), Dry matter accumulation (47.90 g/ plant), number of primary branches (7.67), no. of functional leaves (18.40). Application of Azotobacter + PSB in crop with 125% fertility level significantly lofty Leaf area index (4.42 per plant) at 90 DAS.. Using of Azotobacter + PSB with 112.5 nitrogen & 50 kg phosforus per ha showed significantly higher the yield parameters viz, siliqua per plant (140.75), total size of siliqua (4.78 cm), mean seed per siliqua (12.12), total seed weight (1717 kg/ha), Stover yield (4355 kg/ ha). However, Harvest index (28.28 %) was notably recorded in treatment Azotobacter + PSB + N 112.5 kg/ ha + P 50 kg/ha. So, the combined effect of growth and yield traits were ultimate review in production of highest seed yield by sowing of Indian mustard with utilization of Azotobactor + PSB + N 112.5 & P 50 kg per ha and only N 112.5 & P 50 application should be put forwarded for farmers of that locality of Uttarakhand.','Indian mustard, Azotobacter, PSB, Nitrogen, Growth','Based on result acquired under the study it can be concluded that integrated inoculation of Azotobactor & PSB along with 112.5 kg nitrogen & 50 kg phosforus per hectare gave maximum output production in Indian mustard.','-','Sudhir Partap and Daksh Bishnoi (2022). Influence of Bio-fertilizer and Fertility Levels on Growth and Yield of Indian Mustard (Brassica juncea L.). Biological Forum – An International Journal, 14(4a): 568-571.'),(5926,'148','Feeding and Housing Management Practices of Dairy Animals Followed by Dairy Farmers of North Bihar','Subhash Kumar Saurav, Ritu Chakravarty, Pushpendra Yadav, Saurabh Pandey, Shubham Mishra and Vani Chandran ','Feeding-and-Housing-Management-Practices-of-Dairy-Animals-Followed-by-Dairy-Farmers-of-North-Bihar-12.pdf','',1,'A field study was conducted to get the first hand information about the existing dairy farming practices followed by the dairy farmers of North Bihar. The information about feeding and housing management practices was collected using a semi structured interview schedule from 180 respondents having at least 5 year experience in dairy farming and at least one animal in milk. Group stall feeding, common salt feeding were done by the majority of the respondents, and 79 per cent of the dairy farmers self-cultivated the green fodder. Only 23.89 per cent of the respondents fed mineral mixture to the lactating animals. In the housing management, the majority of the respondents had kaccha animal houses, had kaccha floors, and arranged smoke in the vicinity of animals to protect them from mosquitoes and flies. Majority of animal houses had good ventilation, optimum size, thatched roof and drainage channel was not there in majority of the animal houses. It was observed that the dairy farmers were unaware of the importance of concentrate mixture, balanced feeding, and proper housing management practices. In view of this fact, the study contributed in awareness of farmers regarding the importance of proper feeding and housing practices.','North Bihar, dairy animals, dairy farming, feeding, housing management','The present study revealed that dairy farmers were unaware of the importance of concentrate mixtures, and balanced feeding, and dairy animals were fed twice on average. Group stall feeding was the most common method of feeding. The majority of respondents fed common salt to their dairy animals. Wheat straw was the most common dry fodder, and animals were watered twice by the majority of the respondents. The majority of the respondents provided kaccha houses and kaccha floors to the animals in the shed. The arrangement of smoke for the protection of animals from mosquitoes and flies was done by the majority of the respondents. Good ventilation, the optimal size of animal houses, and proper light provision were provided by the majority of the respondents. Extension efforts in the study area need to be strengthened to increase awareness among farmers regarding improved animal feeding practices and animal housing management.','-','Subhash Kumar Saurav, Ritu Chakravarty, Pushpendra Yadav, Saurabh Pandey, Shubham Mishra and Vani Chandran (2023). Feeding and Housing Management Practices of Dairy Animals Followed by Dairy Farmers of North Bihar. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 15(1): 69-74.'),(5927,'148','Scope of Low Carbohydrate Diets as Therapeutics','Monika Yadav and Vibha Mandhan','Scope-of-Low-Carbohydrate-Diets-as-Therapeutics-Vibha Mandhan-13.pdf','',1,'The low-carbohydrate diets were recently used to treat various illnesses. The low-carbohydrate diets have emerged as a substitute for medicines. Weight reduction and its maintenance are the key targets to dietary modulations. Meal replacements can be beneficial in improving the efficacy of dietary modulations. The nutrient-enriched diet needs to be used for the long term to show promising health outcomes. Additionally, dietary interventions have been used in various illnesses such as cardiovascular diseases, diabetes, kidney health, neurological disorders, as well as acne. Thus, it becomes mandatory to remove conventional medications from dietary habits and add nutrient-enriched foods to avoid the harmful side effects of conventional therapies. Dietary modification becomes the need of the hour for healthy well-being. Additionally, the keto diets suffer various challenges such as causing various human illnesses, disregulated eatings, and social isolation. This review highlights the role of ketogenic diets as therapeutics for various human disorders.','Low-carbohydrate diet, Human disorders, Weight loss, Dietary modulations, Ketogenic diet','The low-carbohydrate diets are considered key tools to reduce weight. They are far more beneficial than low-fat diets but various concerns arise regarding the safety of ketogenic diets. The ketogenic diets are significant in providing therapeutic efficacy during various human disorders such as cardiovascular disease, obesity, acne, diabetes, PCOS, and neural pathologies. They are a key factor in the reduction of body weight and their long-term exposure can even reduce the risk of weight regain. The low-carbohydrate diet reduces blood glucose and helps in reducing the risk of diabetes. ','-','Monika Yadav and Vibha Mandhan (2023). Scope of Low Carbohydrate Diets as Therapeutics. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 15(1): 75-81.'),(5928,'148','Evaluation of Groundwater Potential Mapping: A Review','Priyamvada M. Dhage, M.L. Sahu, S. Nema and M.K. Awasthi ','Evaluation-of-Groundwater-Potential-Mapping-A-Review-M.-Dhage-14.pdf','',1,'Water is an essential need for plant development. Subsurface water or groundwater is an essential source of water for farmers. Due to extensive overexploitation of the groundwater in agriculture, industrial and domestic purpose has resulted the depletion of quantity and quality of groundwater worldwide. Consequently, it is essential to replenish the groundwater and avoid its deterioration for sustainable agriculture development. Therefore, planning and management is critically needed in order to efficient utilization of groundwater resources. In hydrology and the development of water resources, the use of remote sensing and GIS is rapidly and significantly growing. Nowadays, with ease of availability of geographic, spectral, and temporal data over vast and inaccessible locations in a short period of time, remote sensing has become a very effective method for assessing, monitoring, and maintaining groundwater resources. The straight forward interpretation of satellite data provides immediate and useful baseline data on the variables that influence the occurrence and flow of groundwater, such as lithology/structural geology, geomorphology, soils, land use and land cover, slope, lineament, and geology. Groundwater is a critical and valuable resource for development. Consequently, groundwater evaluation and management are crucial. To fulfil the demand for freshwater, it has become essential to locate new groundwater potential zones at a low cost and to develop effective groundwater management and recharge strategies. Numerous assessments of ground water potential zones have been undertaken; thus, this study provides a concise summary of their results.','Groundwater Potential Zones, Remote Sensing, GIS, Recharge Sites','Understanding groundwater resources is essential for the recharge and management of groundwater. This document provides an updated summary of groundwater potential approaches based on a comprehensive literature assessment. Various researchers\' findings indicate that the identification of groundwater potential zones necessitates the construction of distinct thematic layers. Obtaining acceptable potential zones using Remote Sensing and GIS requires a thorough evaluation of the weightage. Among all strategies for overlay, the Analytical Hierarchy Process (AHP) methodology provides the highest degree of precision.','-','Priyamvada M. Dhage, M.L. Sahu, S. Nema and M.K. Awasthi (2023). Evaluation of Groundwater Potential Mapping: A Review. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 15(1): 82-87.'),(5929,'148','Field Screening of Lentil Germplasm against Wilt of lentil caused by Fusarium oxysporum f. sp. lentis',' Sanjay Kharte, Ashish Kumar, Smita Puri, R. Shiv Ramakrishnan, Radheshyam Sharma, Yashowardhan Singh and Sanhita Malvi','Field-Screening-of-Lentil-Germplasm-against-Wilt-of-lentil-caused-by-Fusarium-oxysporum-f.-sp.-lentis-Sanjay Kharte-15.pdf','',1,'Fusarium wilt is an economically significant disease, which is a major limiting factor in production of lentil crop. In the present investigation a set of 90 lentil germplasm were screened for their reaction towards lentil wilt for two consecutive years and it was found that based on consistent behaviour for two years, a set of six germplasm namely Mpl-04, Mpl-42, Mpl-52, Mpl-55, Mpl-60 and Mpl-74 exhibited less than 1 per cent wilt incidence which were categorized as resistant germplasm. However, 24 moderately resistant, 21 moderately susceptible, 05 susceptible and 09 highly susceptible germplasm could be identified.','Lentil, Fusarium oxysporum f. sp. lentis, Resistance, susceptibility','Identification of resistant source for any disease is one of the best methods for management. A set of six germplasm identified here could be a useful resource for using their background in developing elite varieties through conventional breeding. Further, selection of these lines in identification of genetic factor/QTL for wilt resistance will enable their utilization in molecular breeding.','-','Sanjay Kharte, Ashish Kumar, Smita Puri, R. Shiv Ramakrishnan, Radheshyam Sharma, Yashowardhan Singh and Sanhita Malvi (2023). Field Screening of Lentil Germplasm against Wilt of lentil caused by Fusarium oxysporum f. sp. lentis. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 15(1): 88-91.'),(5930,'148','Optimization of Young Jackfruit-Based Meat Analogue using Sensory Profile by D-Optimal Mixture Design','Hemamalini S., V. Perasiriyan, S.K. Mathanghi, R. Ramani and Sunil Raj S.','Optimization-of-Young-Jackfruit-Based-Meat-Analogue-using-Sensory-Profile-by-D-Optimal-Mixture-Design-Hemamalini-S-16.pdf','',1,'The growing population requires increased meat production to satisfy the protein requirement. Augmented meat production has a deleterious effect on the environment and human health and also affects animal habitats. This awareness popularizes the concept of veganism and thus created a surplus demand for innovative plant-based meat analogues in the food industry. In meeting the demand for this need, a meat analogue from young jackfruit, wheat gluten and jackfruit seed flour has been developed. The formula optimization of this young jackfruit-based meat analogue was employed by D-optimal mixture design of response surface methodology, using the sensory profile. For new product development, sensory analysis, especially the 9-point hedonic scale has an important role in interpreting the acceptability, desirability and preference of consumers towards the developed new product. In this work, the following sensory parameters viz., overall acceptability, chewiness, juiciness and tenderness were taken as responses for the runs generated. The sensory analysis for the respective runs was done by preparing gravy from the dried meat analogues produced through cold extrusion technology. The quadratic model was the best-fitted model for all the responses. Based on the desirability value and the sensory evaluation of the generated solutions, the optimized formulation for the preparation of meat analogue was found to be containing 65% young jackfruit, 25% wheat gluten and 10% jackfruit seed flour that contribute to human well-being. Thus, the optimized formulation of the young jackfruit-based meat analogue may satisfy the protein requirements of the growing population.','Meat analogue, D-optimal mixture design, Response surface methodology, Sensory profile, young jackfruit, wheat gluten, jackfruit seed flour','By employing the D-Optimal mixture design of response surface methodology, the optimization of young jackfruit-based meat analogue using the sensory profile analysis was formulated. The optimized formulation of young jackfruit-based meat analogue consists of 65% young jackfruit, 25% wheat gluten and 10% jackfruit seed flour will satisfy the demand for meat alternatives in the food sector.','-','Hemamalini S., V. Perasiriyan, S.K. Mathanghi, R. Ramani and Sunil Raj S. (2023). Optimization of Young Jackfruit-Based Meat Analogue using Sensory Profile by D-Optimal Mixture Design. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 15(1): 92-100.'),(5931,'147','Approaches to Improve Nitrogen and Phosphorous use Efficiency in Wheat','Vijeta Sagwal, Pooja Sihag, Ankush Kumar, Sapna Yadav, Ritu Khasa, Sushma Kumari Pawar, Swati Sharma and Upendra Kumar','Approaches to Improve Nitrogen and Phosphorous use Efficiency in Wheat-Vijeta Sagwal-100.pdf','',1,'Wheat productivity deliberately depends upon the large amount of N and P fertilizers. It becomes more challenging to meet the wheat N and P demand from soil with the growing population. But to meet that demand large amount of fertilizers uses affects the environment, water bodies and soil health and added cost to the crop production. To avoid the harmful effects of these chemical fertilizers we need to adapt the strategies for improving nitrogen and phosphorous use efficiency of the wheat. Strategies should be made in such a way that wheat genotypes must have higher uptake efficiency. Therefore, in this review, we present the importance of nitrogen and phosphorous to wheat, its uptake and utilization. We also mentioned the strategies to improve N/PUE, i.e via conventional breeding as well as molecular approaches such as marker assisted selection, Transgenic approaches, miRNAs in N and P stress and nanoparticles based approaches. These approaches will be helpful in future breeding programs and in improvement of N/PUE of wheat genotypes.','NUE, PUE, miRNA, Marker assisted selection','Wheat growth and productivity is largely affected by the dose of nitrogen and phosphorous fertilizers. Soil nutrient status is going to be deteriorating by the passing years due to higher use of chemical fertilizers to meet the N/P demand of crops. To enhance the N/P availability of plants we need to adopt the strategies which could be helpful in efficient uptake of N and P from the soil and directly to the growth and productivity of wheat.','-','Vijeta Sagwal, Pooja Sihag, Ankush Kumar, Sapna Yadav, Ritu Khasa, Sushma Kumari Pawar, Swati Sharma and Upendra Kumar (2022). Approaches to Improve Nitrogen and Phosphorous use Efficiency in Wheat. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 14(4a): 572-580.'),(5932,'147','Prevalence and Antimicrobial Resistance of Klebsiella species Associated with Bovine Diarrhea','Rajat Singh, Amit Kumar Verma, Amit Kumar, Arbind Singh, Aditya Kumar, Afroz and T.K. Sarkar ','Prevalence-and-Antimicrobial-Resistance-of-Klebsiella-species-Associated-with-Bovine-Diarrhea-Rajat Singh-101.pdf','',1,'Diarrhea in the production animals is a major threat to the industry because of the losses due to poor growth, mortality, low production and cost involved in veterinary intervention. Klebsiella sp. is a gram-negative coliform bacterium that lives in the intestines of humans and animals as commensal. Klebsiella sp. is considered as an opportunistic pathogen that potentially could cause diarrhea. Understanding distribution of bovine diarrhea causing pathogen Klebsiella spp. can contribute to the selection of suitable antimicrobials. Fecal samples collected from 47 dairy cattle from Livestock Research Centre, SVPUAT, Meerut and villages adjoining to Meerut city, Uttar Pradesh were examined to study the frequency of Klebsiella spp and to determine the associated risk factors, resistance of isolated strains to various antimicrobial agents. Nearly 29.79% of the faecal samples were positive for Klebsiella spp. Herd size and age group were found to be significantly associated (p< 0.05) with the occurrence of these pathogens. A high level of resistance was observed against oxytetracycline, gentamicin, streptomycin and ceftriaxone. In contrast, enrofloxacin and amikacin were effective against Klebsiella spp. The high prevalence of AMR in India is a very important concern for strategy programs to control bovine diarrhea caused by Klebsiella spp.','Antibiotyping, Cattle, India, Klebsiella, Prevalence','The results of the present study indicated that amikacin may be the most effective antibiotic in case of diarrhoea in cattle caused by Klebsiella in cow. This further suggested the crucial need for improvements in the antibiotic stewardship programs to limit the rise of resistant microorganisms. Antibiotics are crucial for treatment of animals but unnecessary or overuse of antibiotics constitutes a serious problem for one health. The data in the present study contributes to diagnosis, treatment and control of bovine diarrhoea in Uttar Pradesh, India, in particular, and emphasis the need of good managemental practices to avoid the entry of commensal and nosocomial pathogens in host to induce any diseases conditions. The occurrence of Klebsiella can be managed by improving the environmental contamination.','-','Rajat Singh, Amit Kumar Verma, Amit Kumar, Arbind Singh, Aditya Kumar, Afroz and T.K. Sarkar (2022). Prevalence and Antimicrobial Resistance of Klebsiella species Associated with Bovine Diarrhea. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 14(4a): 581-585.'),(5933,'148','Andrographolide from the Methanol Fraction of Andrographis paniculata Leaves: Isolation and Characterization','Anand Shriram Baley and Tarkeshwar Prasad Shukla','Andrographolide-from-the-Methanol-Fraction-of-Andrographis-paniculata-Leaves-Isolation-and-Characterization-Anand Shriram Baley-17.pdf','',1,'The medicinal plant Andrographis paniculata, often referred to as kalmegh, is used in many different cultures for pain relieving of stomach, symptoms of fever, gallbladder problems, intestinal worms, treatment of liver problems functioning, weakness. The leaf is a component of several patented Indian herbal proprietary medicines used to treat liver problems, such as Kalmeghasava and Kalmeghnamay Haub. Diterpenoids, flavonoids, and polyphenols make up its main chemical components. According to reports, the plant\'s andrographolide, neoandrographolide, and kalmeghnin constituents are its active ingredients. Andrographanin, andrograpanoside, 14-deoxy-12-methoxyandrographolide, and deoxyandrographolide are a few of the other chemical components. Extraction of pure andrographolide from methanol fraction was the main challenge of the research study. This study\'s goal was to separate andrographolide from A. paniculata leaves and analyze the bioactive components of the methanol fraction. Using column chromatography and gradient elution with several mobile phases, the isolation was carried out. The isolated chemical was analyzed using spectroscopy. Spectral analysis was used as the foundation for the structure elucidation process (UV, IR, 1H NMR, and MASS). The extracted substance from the methanol fraction of leaves was identified as andrographolide based on its spectral properties. This is the first such account of an andrographolide chemical found in the methanol fraction of A. paniculata leaves that has potential as a treatment for a number of ailments.','Andrographis paniculata, Isolation, Andrographolide, Acanthaceae, Spectral analysis','The methanol fraction of the leaves of the acanthaceae family plant A. paniculata was successfully used for the phytochemical analysis. Physical, chemical, and spectral data allowed for the compound\'s identification as andrographolide. The biological activity displayed by the plant\'s methanolic fraction must be attributed to the andrographolide extracted from this fraction. As a result, it is now up to the pharmacologists and biologists to conduct individual bioactivity tests on the andrographolide to learn more about the plant. Therefore, the current research will encourage scientific communities to conduct additional research on this significant medicinal plant in the near future.','-','Anand Shriram Baley and Tarkeshwar Prasad Shukla (2023). Andrographolide from the Methanol Fraction of Andrographis Paniculata Leaves: Isolation and Characterization. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 15(1): 101-106.'),(5934,'148','Indian Bay Leaf (Cinnamomum tamala) – How to Protect the Tree Spice from the Ravages of Insect Pests and Diseases','Sabyasachi Ray, Debjeet Sharma and A. Banerjee','Indian-Bay-Leaf-_Cinnamomum-tamala_-–-How-to-Protect-the-Tree-Spice-from-the-Ravages-of-Insect-Pests-and-Diseases-Sabyasachi Ray-18.pdf','',4,'Indian bay leaf (Cinnamomum tamala) is a valuable tree spice of India known for its beautiful aroma and fragrance. The main economic portion of this tree spice is its leaves, so that direct damage in leaves causes direct economic loss in its production. Due to the lacking of detailed information regarding its pest scenario and scientific management, a review work has been done. The study reveals that cinnamon butterfly, different species of leaf miner, chafer beetle, gall mite and cinnamon shoot and leaf webber are the important pests of bay leaf whereas major diseases include leaf spot and dieback, grey leaf spot and blight and bark canker. The insect pests can be managed by different cultural practices like hand picking and destruction of the larvae and adult beetles, trapping with different traps and using different bio-control agents and bio-pesticides besides chemical insecticides. The diseases too can be brought under control by taking different non-chemical approaches like pruning of infected branches and destruction of diseased plant parts, balanced fertilizer application, using bio-agents other than synthetic fungicides.','Indian bay leaf, Insect pests, Diseases, Management','Studies on the seasonal incidence of the insect pests and diseases as well as their natural enemies present in bay leaf ecosystem in relation to the prevalent weather parameters can be done throughout the crop growing regions. Further investigation can be done to find out the best strategies for integrated pest management (IPM) and integrated disease management (IDM) for this tree spice. ','-','Sabyasachi Ray, Debjeet Sharma and A. Banerjee (2023). Indian Bay Leaf (Cinnamomum tamala) – How to Protect the Tree Spice from the Ravages of Insect Pests and Diseases. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 15(1): 107-114.'),(5935,'148','Evaluation of Analgesic Activity of Ethanolic, Hydroethanolic, Aqueous and Chloroform Extracts of Nyctanthes arbortristis Leaves','Debnath S., Hazarika A. and Sarma J. ','Evaluation-of-Analgesic-Activity-of-Ethanolic,-Hydroethanolic,-Aqueous-and-Chloroform-Extracts-of-Nyctanthes-arbortristis-Leaves-Sumitra Debnath-19.pdf','',1,'Allopathic antibiotic and anthelmintic overuse leads to the development of antimicrobial and anthelmintic resistance in both humans and animals, while employing plants for treatment that have phytotherapeutic characteristics reduces the likelihood of developing such resistance. Historically, medicinal plants have been used to cure a variety of conditions. Active compounds that are sources of healing can be found in medicinal plants. The current study sought to assess the analgesic potential of a leaf extract from Nyctanthes arbor-tristis. Melonex and tramadol hydrochloride were employed as standard drug for Eddy\'s hot plate, tail clip, and acetic acid-induced writhing methods of evaluating analgesic activity. Eddy\'s hot plate, tail clip, and acetic acid-induced writhing procedures were used to test all four extracts (ethanolic, hydroethanolic, aqueous, and chloroform) of Nyctanthes arbor-tristis at doses of 250, 500, and 1000 mg/kg. ','Nyctanthes arbor-tristis, Analgesic, Eddy’s hot plate method, Tail clip method, Acetic acid induced writhing method ','Ethanolic, hydroethanolic, aqueous and chloroform leaf extracts of Nyctanthes arbor-tristis was found to possess significant narcotic analgesic activity when tested by eddy’s hot plate and tail clip method. The four leaf extracts was also found to possess significant non-narcotic analgesic activity in Acetic acid induced writhing test. Among all the four extracts (i.e. ethanolic, hydroethanolic, aqueous and chloroform extracts) of Nyctanthes arbor-tristis under study. Hydroethanolic extract @ 1000mg/kg body weight showed better analgesic activity in comparison to other three extracts in the present study. It may be due to presence of flavonoids and steroids in the extract which inhibit prostaglandin synthesis. The present study indicated that leaves of Nyctanthes arbor-tristis can be used as an alternative to analgesic drug. However further studies are necessary to isolate active ingredients responsible for therapeutic effect and dose determination.','-','Debnath S., Hazarika A. and Sarma J. (2023). Evaluation of Analgesic Activity of Ethanolic, Hydroethanolic, Aqueous and Chloroform Extracts of Nyctanthes arbortristis Leaves. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 15(1): 107-118.'),(5936,'148','Effect of Integrated Nutrient Management on Flowering, Flower Quality and Flower Yield of Gaillardia (Gaillardia pulchella Foug.) under Hill Zone of Karnataka','Indhumathi M., Chandrashekar S.Y., Srinivasa V., Shivaprasad M. and Girish R. ','Effect-of-Integrated-Nutrient-Management-on-Flowering,-Flower-Quality-and-Flower-Yield-of-Gaillardia-_Gaillardia-pulchella-Foug._-under-Hill-Zone-of-Karnataka-Chandrashekar SY-20.pdf','',1,'The integrated nutrient management (INM) focuses at efficient and judicious use of the major sources of plant nutrients. It is done in an integrated manner so as to get maximum economic yield without any deleterious effect which is affecting the physio-chemical and biological properties of the soil. Only few experimental study has been done in gaillardia for integrated nutrient management. With this background an experiment was conducted at the Experimental block located at the department of Floriculture and Landscape Architecture, College of Horticulture, Mudigere during 2021-22. The experiment was laid out in Randomized Block Design (RBD) having twelve treatments viz., T1-75% Recommended Dose of Fertilizers + vermicompost @ 1.25 t/ha T2-50% RDF + vermicompost @ 2.5 t/ha, T3 -75% RDF + vermicompost @ 1.25 t/ha + Azospirillum @ 2 kg/ha, T4 -50% RDF+ vermicompost@ 2.5 t/ha + Azospirillum @ 2 kg/ha, T5-75% RDF + Azospirillum @ 2 kg/ha + VAM@2 kg/ha, T6 - 50% RDF + Azospirillum @ 2 kg/ha + VAM @2 kg/ha, T7-75% RDF+ vermicompost @ 1.25 t/ha + VAM @2 kg/ha, T8-50% RDF+ vermicompost @ 2.5 t /ha + VAM @2 kg/ha, T9-75% RDF + vermicompost @ 1.25 t/ha + Azospirillum @ 2 kg/ha + VAM @2 kg/ha, T10-50% RDF + vermicompost @ 2.5 t/ha + Azospirillum @ 2 kg/ha + VAM @2 kg/ha, T11-100% RDF + vermicompost @1.25 t/ha + Azospirillum @ 2 kg/ha + VAM @ 2 kg/ha and T12-100% RDF (Control) replicated thrice. The treatment T9-75% RDF+ vermicompost@ 1.25 t/ha + Azospirillum@ 2 kg/ha + VAM @2 kg/ha recorded the minimum days for 50 per cent flowering (78.30), maximum flowering duration (141.67 days), flower head diameter (6.58 cm), flower petiole length (39.20 cm), corolla length (3.09 cm), shelf life (3.13 days), vase life (5.67 days), average flower weight (3.48 g), number of flowers per plant (104.30), flower yield per hectare (22.09 tonnes)and it was statistically on par with the treatment comprising of T11-100% RDF + vermicompost@ 1.25 t/ha + Azospirillum@ 2 kg/ha + VAM@ 2 kg/ha. Hence, this treatment proved to be promising for the enhancement the flower quality and yield of gaillardia under hill zone of Karnataka. ','Gaillardia, integrated nutrient management, flowering, flower quality and yield','From the findings of present investigation, it could be concluded that the integrated application of nutrients by different sources i.e., inorganic fertilizers, vermicopost, Azospirillum and VAM influence the plant growth, flowering, quality and yield of gaillardia. Hence, the treatment 75% RDF + vermicompost@ 1.25 t/ha + Azospirillum @ 2 kg/ha + VAM @2 kg/ha may be recommended for the commercial cultivation of gaillardia under hill zone of Karnataka.','-','Indhumathi M., Chandrashekar S.Y., Srinivasa V., Shivaprasad M. and Girish R. (2023). Effect of Integrated Nutrient Management on Flowering, Flower Quality and Flower Yield of Gaillardia (Gaillardia pulchella Foug.) under Hill Zone of Karnataka. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 15(1): 119-123.'),(5937,'148','Character Association and Path coefficient Analysis for Yield and Yield Contributing Traits in F2 Population of Bitter Gourd (Momordica charantia L.)','Nikhil Sharma, Vilas D. Gasti, M. G. Kerutagi, Vijayakumar Rathod, Namita Bhasker Raut and Dileepkumar A. Masuthi\r\n','Character-Association-and-Path-coefficient-Analysis-for-Yield-and-Yield-Contributing-Traits-in-F2-Population-of-Bitter-Gourd-(Momordica-charantia-L.)-Nikhil-Sharma-21.pdf','',1,'The present investigation was carried out to determine correlation coefficient and path analysis in the F2 population of HUB-1 × CO-1 of bitter gourd for 11 characters comprised of fruit yield and its contributing characters to identify transgressive segregants for further breeding programme. Yield is a dependent trait that is linked to a number of component traits. Selecting for yield directly may be less effective than selecting for traits that contribute to yield indirectly. The correlation coefficient is useful in determining the relative influence of the various characters on yield and helps to assess the probability of yield advancement by indirectly selecting its constituent characters, which are strongly correlated with yield. Path coefficient analysis proved useful in partitioning the correlation coefficient into direct and indirect effects and give an idea about the contribution of each independent character on dependent character i.e. yield. The 200 F2 population of HUB-1 × CO-1 constituted the experiment, which lied out in un-replicated at experimental Farm of the Department of Vegetable Science, Kittur Rani Chenamma College of Horticulture, Arabhavi, Belagavi District (Karnataka). The correlation coefficient suggested that there was a highly significant and positive association between fruit yield vine-1 and average fruit weight (0.821), fruit length (0.723), number of primary branches at final harvest (0.672), number of fruits vine-1 (0.659), number of seeds fruit-1 (0.639) and vine length at final harvest (0.620). The path analysis indicated that average fruit weight (0.72871) and number of fruits vine-1 (0.52488) had highest positive direct effects on fruit yield vine-1. Based on the overall findings of the current study, it was concluded that the main attention should be placed on average fruit weight followed by number of fruit vine, number of primary branches at final harvest and fruit length, while exercising selection to improve yield.','Bitter gourd, correlation, fruit yield, path analysis','Correlation and path analysis demonstrated that advancement in yield may be possible by adopting traits such as average fruit weight, number of fruits per plant, number of primary branches at final harvest, fruit length and fruit diameter as selection criteria for crop improvement in bitter gourd.','-','Nikhil Sharma, Vilas D. Gasti, M. G. Kerutagi, Vijayakumar Rathod, Namita Bhasker Raut and Dileepkumar A. Masuthi (2023). Character Association and Path coefficient Analysis for Yield and Yield Contributing Traits in F2 Population of Bitter Gourd (Momordica charantia L.). Biological Forum – An International Journal, 15(1): 124-128.'),(5938,'148','Studies on Uptake of Nutrients by Bread Wheat (Triticum aestivum L.) as influenced by different Nutrient Management Approaches','Ummesalma Sanadi, K.K. Math and Kiran Emmiganur','Studies-on-Uptake-of-Nutrients-by-Bread-Wheat-(Triticum-aestivum-L.)-as-influenced-by-different-Nutrient-Managemnet-Approaches-Ummesalma-Sanadi-22.pdf','',1,'The present research on wheat was conducted during two consecutive rabi seasons (2020-22) at All India Co-ordinate Wheat and Barley Improvement Project, MARS, University of Agricultural Sciences, Dharwad The field research consisted of 15 treatments which are replicated thrice in a Randomized Complete Block Design (RCBD). Nowadays, farmers are trying to get high grain yields in line with food quality, at the same time trying to minimize production costs and to use environmental friendly technologies. The grain yield depends on the concentration and uptake of nutrients by the crop. There are various factors which influences the concentration and uptake of nutrients and among them climatic conditions, soil types, nature of crops and amount of fertilizers are important. Hence, the present investigation is proposed with the objective to study the uptake of major and micronutrients by wheat. The compiled data of two year study indicated that site specific management of nutrient strategy for achieving yield target of 55 q ha-1 by bread wheat significantly increased the concentration and uptake of nutrients by providing balanced nutrition tailored to the dynamic crop demand in the season. The study revealed that this particular approach is significantly superior over other approaches viz., soil test laboratory approach (STL), soil test crop response approach (STCR) and Nutrient Expert (NE) approach. Therefore, site specific management of nutrients is best approach for getting higher uptake of nutrients by wheat. ','SSNM, STCR, STL, Targeted yield, Uptake, Wheat','Site specific nutrient management approach for yield targeted at 55 q ha-1 significantly increased the nutrient concentration and their uptake of major and micronutrients in wheat when compared to other approaches such as soil test laboratory (STL), soil test crop response (STCR) and nutrient expert (NE), 125 and 150 per cent RDF and RPP. ','-','Ummesalma Sanadi, K.K. Math and Kiran Emmiganur (2023). Studies on Uptake of Nutrients by Bread Wheat (Triticum aestivum L.) as influenced by different Nutrient Management Approaches. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 15(1): 129-138.'),(5939,'148','In Vitro Apoptosis Detection of MCF-7 and HCT116 Cells by Aqueous Plant Extract from Stachytarpheta mutabilis using PI Annexin V-FITC Flow Cytometry Assay','Ramesh Londonkar and Maithilee Kesralikar','In-Vitro-Apoptosis-Detection-of-MCF-7-and-HCT116-Cells-by-Aqueous-Plant-Extract-from-Stachytarpheta-mutabilis-using-PI-Annexin-V-FITC-Flow-Cytometry-Assay-Maithilee-Kesralikar-23.pdf','',1,'Cancer is one of the main global causes of mortality. Currently available treatment options include chemotherapy, radiation therapy, and surgery, all of which have undesirable side effects. In order to alleviate the negative effects of these therapies, combinational or alternative treatments derived from natural sources are required. Cancer chemopreventive potential of natural plant compounds with significant growth inhibition and apoptosis induction characteristics is being intensively researched. Extracts of plants are an abundant source of secondary metabolites. Stachytarpheta mutabilis is a member of the verbenaceae family and has been used as a folk remedy for ages. It has numerous pharmacological effects, but its anti-cancer potential is the most intriguing. This research addresses the induction of apoptosis in MCF-7 and HCT-116 cell lines after treatment with the aqueous fractions-isolated chemical. Apoptosis is a cell death process marked by distinct morphological and biochemical characteristics. A crucial step of apoptosis is the development of surface modifications by dying cells, which ultimately leads to their identification and ingestion by phagocytes. By coupling FITC (fluorescein isothiocyanate) to Annexin V, flow cytometry may be used to detect and quantify apoptotic cells on a single-cell basis. Our findings show that the anticancer effects of S. mutabilis on human MCF-7 and HCT-116 cell lines are promising. However, further study is required in light of its medicinal potential.','Phytochemical analysis. Apoptosis, flow cytometry, Chromatography, MTT assay, anticancer','The findings of this investigation show that the aqueous extract of S. mutabilis might be a promising anticancer drug. Apoptosis is thus valuable as a marker for measuring the efficiency of potential cancer prevention therapy. Following therapeutic treatments, assessing viable and apoptotic cells is facilitated by cell-based assays (Vikas and Anil 2019). By assessing the efficiency of chemicals in vitro, it is possible to find prospective drugs for the treatment of diseases. Using cell-based tests, the therapeutic effectiveness of newly discovered drugs and biologics for the treatment of cancer may be evaluated. The findings of this investigation demonstrate conclusively that the extract was able to suppress cancer cell proliferation by inducing apoptosis. The intriguing finding indicates that the extract may include bioactive chemicals with anticancer properties that need isolation and further characterisation.','-','Ramesh Londonkar and Maithilee Kesralikar (2023). In Vitro Apoptosis Detection of MCF-7 and HCT116 Cells by Aqueous Plant Extract from Stachytarpheta mutabilis using PI Annexin V-FITC Flow Cytometry Assay. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 15(1): 139-144.'),(5940,'147','Inhibitory effect of plant oils and antibiotics against Ralstonia solanacearum','D. Sabina Mary, G.S. Sahu, Gayatri Biswal, A.K. Senapati and K.C. Samal','Inhibitory-effect-of-plant-oils-and-antibiotics-against-Ralstonia-solanacearum-D-102.pdf','',1,'Bacterial wilt of brinjal caused by Ralstonia solanacearum, considered as a destructive disease of brinjal crop. An experiment was conducted to test the effectiveness of plant oils and antibiotics against the growth of Ralstonia solanacearum under in vitro conditions in the Department of Plant Pathology, Odisha University of Agriculture and Technology, Bhubaneswar during 2021-2022. However eight different plant oils were tested. Among them, the maximum inhibition was observed in clove oil (15.47 mm) followed by linseed oil (14.53 mm). The antibiotics Streptocycline (12.57 mm) showed the considerably highest inhibition when tested against R. solanacearum, followed by Gentamycin (10.46mm), Ampicillin (9.12 mm), Cefuroxime (8.73 mm), and Chloramphenicol (8.66 mm),Levofloxacin (8.32 mm), Tetracycline (8.11 mm) and Ciprofloxacin showed (7.98 mm) were statistically at par.','Antibiotics, inhibition, plant oils and Ralstonia solanacearum','The effect of eight different plant oils on R. solanacearum revealed that maximum inhibition was observed in clove oil (15.47 mm) followed by linseed oil (14.53 mm). Huang and Lakshman, (2010) also observed that clove oil showed maximum inhibition against R. solanacearum. Kumari et al. (2021) also observed that Streptocycline exhibited highest inhibition zone of 28.03 mm at 500 ppm concentration. Singh and Jagtap (2017) also recorded that Streptocycline showed highest inhibition zoneof 18.4 mm and 21.7 mm at 400 and 500 ppm respectively (Murthy and Srinivas 2012; Raghu et al., 2013 and Gupta and Razdan 2013).','-','D. Sabina Mary, G.S. Sahu, Gayatri Biswal, A.K. Senapati and K.C. Samal (2022). Inhibitory effect of plant oils and antibiotics against Ralstonia solanacearum. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 14(4a): 586-590.'),(5941,'143','Correlation analysis for yield and yield contributing characters in F2 and backcross generations of Cowpea (Vigna unguiculata L.)','Shubham Patil, V.N. Toprope and Krishna Gaiwal','8 Correlation analysis for yield and yield contributing characters in F2 and backcross generations of Cowpea _Vigna unguiculata L._ Shubham Patil.pdf','',1,'The present investigation was carried out to estimate genotypic and phenotypic correlation for the important yield and yield contributing characters using F2 generations of two crosses and four backcrosses of cowpea. The experiment was conducted during kharif season 2020-21 at Experimental Farm, Department of Agricultural Botany, College of Agriculture, Latur. The experimental material comprised of three parents, F2 and backcrosses. Observation were recorded on days to 50% flowering, days to maturity, number of primary branches per plant, plant height (cm), number of pods per plant, pod length (cm), number of seeds per pod, test weight (gm) and grain yield per plant (gm). In this investigation, the correlation with grain yield all nine character showed some positive and some negative correlation. The days to 50 per cent flowering, number of primary branches, number of pods per plant, number of seeds per pod, pod length (cm), and plant height (cm) and the negative correlation with only test weight (gm).','Cowpea, yield, Correlation analysis, Vigna unguiculata','The study may be useful to formulate the policies to improve upon the yield from cowpea crop on the basis of genotypic correlation and phenotypic correlation in yield and yield contributing character.','-','-'),(5942,'114','Application of Homology Modeling; A Molecular Visualization Method','Piyusha Sharma, Anjana Thakur and Neha Kumari','13 Application of Homology Modeling; A Molecular Visualization Method Piyusha Sharma-1416.pdf','',1,'Diverse Research in areas like protein engineering, human genetics, structure-based drug design and analysis of protein function knowledge of the three-dimensional structure of proteins is a prerequisite. It is ultimately dictated by protein sequence and is typically necessary to comprehend the mechanism of protein function. It takes a lot of time and doesn\'t always work with all proteins, particularly membrane proteins, to determine the structure of a protein using experimental techniques like X-ray crystallography or NMR spectroscopy. Protein modelling aims to predict a three-dimensional structure from its sequence with an accuracy using a technique called homology modelling also known as comparison modelling or knowledge-based modelling. The current review offers a methodical evaluation of the efficacy of frequently employed (and commercially accessible) homology modelling software for therapeutically important proteins, evaluating both the sequence alignments and the created 3D models. The ab-initio approach and homology modelling can be grouped into two extreme categories for theoretical structure prediction. One objective of the first method is to predict folds using physical chemistry concepts. A protein sequence\'s three-dimensional structure can be predicted using a second method, which principally bases its prediction on the protein sequence\'s similarity to other proteins with known structures.','Homology modeling, X-ray crystallography, NMR spectroscopy, databases, 3D structure','The most comprehensive method for predicting a protein\'s three-dimensional structure from its amino acid sequence is homology modelling. This technique creates realistic 3D models. We observed that homology modelling is significant because it discovers linkages between sequence patterns and structural characteristics and further illustrates how proteins have developed. It creates assumptions regarding a protein\'s function, forecasts how a sequence will fold, and builds a model by comparison with an existing structure with a comparable sequence. It aids in the study of how mutations affect structure, functions and forecasts the impact of a novel mutation on either. Additionally, it creates completely new proteins with inventive functionalities (protein engineering). In the creation of drugs, it is frequently employed. Based on a survey of the literature, we have created Table 1, which includes a list of the applications and programmes used in homology modelling. This table lists software programmes along with a description of the programme and a link to its website. For automatic protein modelling, tools like Geno3d, Swiss Model, CHP models, and Homology are employed. For loop modelling, Wloop is employed. Programming is used in conjunction with Profit, CaSpR, and Phyre 2. The basic goal of homology modelling is to accurately anticipate a structure from its sequence, matching the results of experiments.','-','-'),(5943,'113','Understanding Customer Preference for Product Development','P. Sharma and R. Saluja','9 Understanding Customer Preference for Product Development Piyusha Sharma 3724.pdf','',1,'Demand of ayurvedic products in the medical industry inspires the researcher to identifying the key variables affecting buyer purchasing behaviour. This research report aims to examine consumer purchasing patterns for hair oil products in relation to herbal hair oil. The locations of this study is Punjab, Haryana, Himachal, and J&K. Both primary and secondary data is curated. Secondary data is gathered from magazines, books, and journals. In addition a standardized questionnaire is opted for collection of primary data. Respondent opinions are gathered using Likert five-point scales. 346 respondents from a varied range of age groups made up the entire sample for this study. The convenient sampling approach is employed in this study. The limitation of accuracy of the data retrieved and error of biased subjective result is the only constraint of the study. For data analysis, SPSS 25.0 software is employed. Consumers now have more disposable income and purchasing power, which has led to this industry\'s rapid expansion. The results could be used into future cosmetics marketing plans. This study indicates towards the consumer preference for hair oils with respect to demographic factors and shows that it has a significant impact on consumer purchasing decisions. This research report aids in providing further knowledge and ideas to cosmetic companies specially hair FMCG so they may learn more about consumer purchasing habits. ','Likert scale, hair, consumer, oil, Product, SPSS, survey','In FMCG, the cosmetics sector is one of the most competitive sector therefore it requires an investigation of consumer preferences for using various hair. Before starting any sector, marketers should conduct research on the aspects that influence consumer behaviour. According to a study, people view hair oils as essential for maintaining healthy hair and as a crucial component of daily living. This paper aims to identify the factors influencing customer usage of hair oil products. Through this study, it was discovered that consumer preferences towards the use of hair oil have a stronger influence on consumer purchasing decisions. Consumers give their purchases careful consideration before making a selection based on whether they like to use hair oil or not. Since there are alternative products which compete with respect to price, quality and brand. These factors that influence the decision making process can be considered in future research. The beauty products market is even more intense therefore all the demographic factors may play a major role in consumer buying decision. Manufacturers and retailers of beauty products must have this thought at the back of their mind when they emphasize on the marketing of their products.','-','P. Sharma and R. Saluja (2022). Understanding Customer Preference for Product Development. International Journal on Emerging Technologies, 13(1): 65–70.'),(5944,'143','A Study on Impact of Demonstration of Nutrition Garden for Year-round Nutrition Security in Farm Families','Anupama, C., Shwetha B. N., Mallika Meti and Doddabasappa, B.','9 A Study on Impact of Demonstration of Nutrition Garden for Year-round Nutrition Security in Farm Families Doddabasappa B-1416a.pdf','',1,'India is not only the world’s second largest producer of food, but also has its second largest undernourished population. Malnutrition and food insecurity has been a major concern for India for several decades. Undernutrition leads to long-term effects, including cognitive and growth deficits and reduced immunity to infections. The present study aims at understanding the importance of nutrition garden with an objective of assessing the nutritional security of farm families. Consecutively for two years, the present study was conducted in Mandalagera village, Raichur taluk and Raitanagar Camp village, Sindhanur taluk, Raichur district, Karnataka. In each village, twenty five farm families were selected in each village and three categories were made based on their family size. The total number of participants were 186, among them, 98 were males and 88 were females. Body Mass Index, of the people showed the majority of both males and females, the malnourishment has been seen most common (62.30%).Twenty-one females were found to suffer from iron deficiency causing nutritional anaemia. Few were suffering from scales in skin, mostly due to micronutrient deficiencies. Seventeen people recognized its clinical symptoms. While selecting the farm families, a proper care was taken their willingness to maintain the garden throughout the year. Those families who had sufficient area that can be spared for the study purpose were chosen. All the families were supplied with vegetable seeds, some perennial saplings of fruit crop and some speciality foods. The plan had also covered the medicinal plants in the garden. All the subjects were trained to adopt the growing of crop organically and maintain the garden with environment friendly practices. They were trained to use balanced diet with proper importance of major and micro nutrients. It was suggested based on the recommended dietary allowances (RDA). The study revealed their nutritional quality had increased in all the major nutritional parameters, viz. proteins, dietary fibre, vitamin, A, vitamin C, Iron and Calcium. The nutritional garden helped with the consumption of freshly harvested vegetables in their daily diet, contributing for the increased nutritional status of the families. ','Cowpea, yield, Correlation analysis, Vigna unguiculata','For any family nutrition garden in their backyard or available space is important as a handy source of fresh vegetables as well the plants that are useful and have medicinal properties. However, the recent days their significance is seen to be increasing in the context of the efforts to combat the major as well the micro nutrient deficiencies. These deficiencies are generally prevalent in areas where the normal diet of the population has less diversity and particularly in the areas who dependent on a type of staple food such as cereal based diets. Nutrition garden provides easily accessible diversified fresh vegetables with lot of nutritional benefits. In this connection the present study has demonstrated the worth of nutrition garden for the year-round nutrition security. Follow up visits to these two villages showed they have continued maintaining the nutrition garden.','-','-'),(5945,'148','The Impact of Nutrition Education and Dietary Counselling on Anthropometric Measurements of Adolescent Girls belonging to different Socio-economic Backgrounds, Bihar','Debjani Das and Abhijit Das','The-Impact-of-Nutrition-Education-and-Dietary-Counselling-on-Anthropometric-Measurements-of-Adolescent-Girls-belonging-to-different-Socio-economic-Backgrounds,-Bihar-Debjani Das-24.pdf','',1,'Several recent studies have reported that adolescent girls from every corner of India particularly from rural areas had poor health status and the roots of this problem was found that most of the adolescents were not aware about proper dietary pattern and also lack of nutritional knowledge. In Bihar, adolescent girls are suffering from serious health problem due to socio economic conditions, nutrition and gender discrimination. According to National Nutrition Monitoring Bureau (2003), in the rural area more than 40-50 per cent girls have been reported to be undernourished. The study was carried out on 100 adolescent girls belonging to 15-19 years age group and categorized them into three socio-economic groups i.e. lower class, middle class and upper class. Their pre and post anthropometric measurements were taken in order to find out the impact of education intervention and counselling on their health status. It was noticed that most of the girls from lower class background were malnourished as compared to middle class and upper class family but after exposure of nutrition intervention and dietary counselling it was slightly decreased the range of malnourished and most of the girls were obtained normal BMI. It was showed that after nutrition intervention and dietary counselling, positive changes were showed in every income group (Lower, middle and upper class) of adolescent girls.','Adolescent girls, anthropometric measurement, socio-economic background, nutrition intervention, dietary counselling','It can be concluded that respondents those were belonging to lower class their weight and BMI was less as compared to middle class and upper class. But it was showed that after nutrition intervention and dietary counselling, weight and BMI of respondents of each socio-economic group was slightly increased. But heights of respondents were remaining unchanged. Positive changes were showed in every income group of adolescent girls.','-','Debjani Das and Abhijit Das (2023). The Impact of Nutrition Education and Dietary Counselling on Anthropometric Measurements of Adolescent Girls Belonging to different Socio-economic Backgrounds, Bihar. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 15(1): 145-150.'),(5946,'148','Proso Millet Breeding Progress, Status of Genomic Resources and Future Aspects of Improvement','Ikkurti Gopinath and Kamre Kranthi Kumar','Proso-Millet-Breeding-Progress,-Status-of-Genomic-Resources-and-Future-Aspects-of-Improvement-Ikkurti-Gopinath-25.pdf','',1,'Small millets are potentially high nutrient rich crops with great value to human consumption and animal feed. Small millets include small seeded crops of Poaceae family like foxtail millet, finger millet, kodo millet, proso millet, barnyard millet and little millet. Proso millet is low-input and less demanding small millet known for its rich magnesium content. Developing high yielding and nutrient packed proso millet varieties improves industrial adoption and cultivation. Information on genomic resources available in proso millet can improve breeding activities and quicken the genetic gain. Therefore, pre-breeding in proso millet, germplasm and molecular breeding avenues are focus in the article.','Genomic resources, pre-breeding, genetic gain, proso millet',' Proso millet is considered ‘miracle grain’ in semi-arid regions considering it potential role in food energy malnutrition. Proso millet comes with numerous health benefits upon its adoption such as preventing risk of cardiovascular diseases. Information on germplasm resources and genomics breeding aspects in proso millet promisingly reduces gap in research outcomes and implementation as inclusion into food-diet. The growth in genomic research accelerates the genetic gain and assist developing high yielding proso millet varieties. ','-','Ikkurti Gopinath and Kamre Kranthi Kumar (2023). Proso Millet Breeding Progress, Status of Genomic Resources and Future Aspects of Improvement. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 15(1): 151-155.'),(5947,'148','Use of Piperine as a Natural Bioenhancer in Formulation Development and Evaluation of Mouth Dissolving Film of Ziprasidone','Prashant L. Pingale, Sahebrao S. Boraste, Dattatraya M. Shinkar, Anjali P. Pingale and Sunil V. Amrutkar','Use-of-Piperine-as-a-Natural-Bioenhancer-in-Formulation-Development-and-Evaluation-of-Mouth-Dissolving-Film-of-Ziprasidone-Prashant-L.-Pingale-26.pdf','',1,'The most recent technology for creating oral disintegrating dose forms is oral film. Low drug loading and few options for flavour masking are these dosage forms\' principal drawbacks. \r\nThe oral film is made up of different-sized and shaped ingestible water-soluble polymers. When a medicine is taken, it is released for either stomach absorption or oral mucosal absorption. Ziprasidone HCI, piperine, bio-enhancers, and other standard chemicals such polymers, plasticizers, sweeteners, saliva-stimulating agents, and flavours have been combined to create a mouth-dissolving film. The moment the film is applied to the patient\'s tongue and mucous tissue; saliva starts to spit on it. The film quickly absorbs water and sticks to the application place before immediately dissolving. The optimized formulation (F3) demonstrated good mechanical qualities, folding durability, and mouthfeel in addition to immediate drug release. The major goal of this study was to create a mouth-freshening film that dissolves in the mouth. The film (F3) samples that were tested had a rapid drug release profile, with the maximal release occurring in 3 minutes and a quicker start to the medication\'s action. The stability investigations took place for between one and three months. No significant changes were made to the drug release, in-vitro disintegration, thickness, or tensile strength.\r\n','Absorption, Bioenhancer, Drug release, Mouth dissolving film, Ziprasidone','The main goal of this research was to create a mouth-dissolving film using the bioenhancer piperine, Ziprasidone HCl, as well as basic components such polymers, plasticizers, sweeteners, saliva-stimulating agents, and flavours. Solvent casting was used to create the films. Piperine accelerates drug breakdown, increasing CDR by up to 99%. The HPMC E5 cps was unable to give the film thickness. HPMC E15 had good adaptability. Propylene glycol, a plasticizer, was unable to give the film flexibility and folding durability. Good folding durability, tensile strength, and % elongation was achieved using PEG 400. The improved formulation (ZF3) demonstrated good mechanical qualities, folding durability, and mouth feel in addition to immediate drug release.\r\nIn comparison to the commercial formulation, the ZF3 demonstrated a 31-second reduction in disintegration time and 99% drug release in just three minutes.\r\nTherefore, it was believed that the use of piperine as a natural bioenhancer, which is favourable and offers maximal drug release compared to standard dosage form, had produced quick drug release for an instant start to activity.\r\n','-','Prashant L. Pingale, Sahebrao S. Boraste, Dattatraya M. Shinkar, Anjali P. Pingale and Sunil V. Amrutkar (2023). Use of Piperine as a Natural Bioenhancer in Formulation Development and Evaluation of Mouth Dissolving Film of Ziprasidone. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 15(1): 156-162.'),(5948,'148','Evaluation of Biopesticides against Fall Armyworm, Spodoptera frugiperda (J. E. Smith) (Lepidoptera: Noctuidae) in Maize during Rabi',' Sahana M., Pramod Katti, A. Prabhuraj, Arunkumar Hosamani and Satyanarayana Rao','Evaluation-of-Biopesticides-against-Fall-Armyworm,-Spodoptera-frugiperda-(J.-E.-Smith)-(Lepidoptera-Noctuidae)-in-Maize-during-Rabi-Sahana-M-27.pdf','',1,'With the basic principle of integrated pest management (IPM) and searching for effective and sustainable alternatives for the management of Spodoptera frugiperda in maize different biopesticides were evaluated at Main Agricultural Research Station (MARS), UAS Raichur, Karnataka during Rabi 2019 cropping season. The experiment was laid in a Randomized Complete Block Design (RCBD) with three replications and seven treatments. Biopesticides such as Metarhizium rileyi, Sf NPV and Bacillus thuringiensis var. kurstaki were found to be the best treatments in reducing the larval population and per cent leaf damage compared to untreated control at five and seven days after two sprays. The yield and cost economics also showed that they were economically viable biopesticides.','Bacillus, Biopesticides, Metarhizium, Rabi, SfNPV, Spodoptera','The pest S. frugiperda showed to be susceptible to isolates of M. rileyi, SfNPV and B. thuringiensis var. kurstaki indicating potential for biological control within an integrated pest management. These biopesticides were selected to evaluate more efficient biopesticide to control fall armyworm by applying lower doses in the field, helping to overcome the economic limitations and hazardous effects caused by insecticides, and thereby enhancing ecological feasibility.','-','Sahana M., Pramod Katti, A. Prabhuraj, Arunkumar Hosamani and Satyanarayana Rao (2023). Evaluation of Biopesticides Against Fall Armyworm, Spodoptera frugiperda (J. E. Smith) (Lepidoptera: Noctuidae) in Maize during Rabi. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 15(1): 163-168.'),(5949,'148','Effect of Sowing Time and Seed Treatment in Management of Collar Rot of Chickpea','Priya Tiwari, Ashish Kumar, Vedant Gautam, R. Shivramakrishnan, R.S. Sharma, Pooja Parmar and Sanjay Kharte','Effect-of-Sowing-Time-and-Seed-Treatment-in-Management-of-Collar-Rot-of-Chickpea-Priya Tiwari-28.pdf','',1,'Chickpea is a popular legume crop in Asia and Africa\'s semi-arid regions with modest production gains, because of several biotic and abiotic factors. Among the different diseases, collar rot of chickpea is a major limiting factor in central India. In the present investigation, three sowing dates were evaluated with four different seed treatments in three chickpea varieties for management of collar rot of chickpea. Significant effect of date of sowing along with impact of seed treatment were recorded in inhibiting the collar rot incidence. Among the different varieties minimum incidence of collar rot was recorded in JG 14 followed by JG 36 and JGK 1 in all the seed treatments and date of sowing. Further, among the different seed treatment practices, minimum collar rot incidence of 12.94%, 9.97% and 6.73% was recorded in seed treatment with Rhizobium + PSB @ 10 ml/kg seed during sowing in first, second fortnight of November and first fortnight of December respectively in chickpea variety JG 14. The same treatment showed the maximum effect in inhibiting the incidence of collar rot in other two studied varieties namely JG 36 and JGK 1. Among the different dates of sowing, the incidence of collar rot was recorded highest during early sowing and it kept on decreasing by delaying the sowing. The maximum mean incidence of collar rot of 18.76% was recorded with sowing during the first fortnight of November followed by sowing during second fortnight of November (14.38%) and minimum of 8.77% in sowing during first fortnight of December.','Chickpea, Date of sowing, collar rot, Sclerotium rolfsii','Overall scenario across three varieties, three date of sowing and four seed treatments revealed that late sowing during first fort night of December in combination with seed treatment with Rhizobium + PSB @ 10 ml/kg seed prior to sowing was recorded as best treatment for control of collar rot of chickpea irrespective of variety used.','-','Priya Tiwari, Ashish Kumar, Vedant Gautam, R. Shivramakrishnan, R.S. Sharma, Pooja Parmar and Sanjay Kharte (2023). Effect of Sowing Time and Seed Treatment in Management of Collar Rot of Chickpea. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 15(1): 169-173.'),(5950,'148','Development and Evaluation of Recombinant Inbred Lines for Yield and Quality Traits in Tomato (Solanum lycopersicum L.)','S. Chethan Kumar, R. S. Jawadagi, B. Fakrudin, C.N. Hanchinamani, M.S. Kulkarni, T.N. Lakshmidevamma and R. Vijayakumar ','Development-and-Evaluation-of-Recombinant-Inbred-Lines-for-Yield-and-Quality-Traits-in-Tomato-(Solanum-lycopersicum-L.)-S.-Chethan-Kumar-29.pdf','',1,'Tomato is the most important vegetable crop in the world and in India for its nutritional and industrial value. The production and productivity of tomato in India is less compare to world scenario due to plants basically succulent in nature so more prone to infestation by biotic and abiotic stresses. So there is need of new and improved tomato lines which were high yielded and resistant to biotic and abiotic stresses. In this experiment we have developed a total of 147 recombinant inbred lines from the cross Anagha and FBT-41, which are contrasting for the trait bacterial wilt disease resistance. Among 147 lines developed and evaluated for 18 yield and quality traits a total eight lines were identified as superior inbred lines viz., TRIP2-8, TRIP2-17, TRIP2-18, TRIP2-20, TRIP2-22, TRIP2-24, TRIP2-35 and TRIP2-110, so these high yielding homozygous lines can be directly released as variety after necessary multi location trials or can be used as parent to develop hybrids.','Tomato, per se, RILs and fruit yield','Considering all the yield and quality traits in the 147 RILs derived from the cross Anagha × FBT-41, eight lines were identified as superior inbred lines viz., TRIP2-8, TRIP2-17, TRIP2-18, TRIP2-20, TRIP2-22, TRIP2-24, TRIP2-35 and TRIP2-110. This lines homozygous stable lines can be used to developed hybrids which were high yielders or can be released as variety directly for cultivation.','-','\r\nS. Chethan Kumar, R. S. Jawadagi, B. Fakrudin, C.N. Hanchinamani, M.S. Kulkarni, T.N. Lakshmidevamma and R. Vijayakumar (2023). Development and Evaluation of Recombinant Inbred Lines for Yield and Quality Traits in Tomato (Solanum lycopersicum L.). Biological Forum – An International Journal, 15(1): 174-181.'),(5951,'148','Evaluation of Insecticides for the Management of Leaf Folder in Rice Crop','B. Sampath Reddy, B.N. Chaudhari and P.V. Sanap ','Evaluation-of-Insecticides-for-the-Management-of-Leaf-Folder-in-Rice-Crop-B.-Sampath-Reddy-30.pdf','',1,'The present study on evaluation of insecticides for the management of leaf folder in rice crop was undertaken at Agriculture Research Station, Sakoli, Bhandara district during kharif 2021. The experimental plot was laid out in Randomized Block Design (RBD) incorporating seventeen treatments along with control consisting of seed treatment of Thiamethoxam 25 % WG, nursery application at one week before of Carbofuran 3% CG, Fipronil 0.3 % GR, Chlorantraniliprole 0.4 % GR, main field application at 22 DAT of Carbofuran 3 % CG, Fipronil 0.3% GR, Chlorantraniliprole 0.4% GR, Cartap hydrochloride 4 % GR, Chlorpyrifos 10% GR, Thiamethoxam 25% WG (seed treatment) + Fipronil 0.3 % GR (main field), Thiamethoxam 25% WG (seed treatment) + Chlorantraniliprole 0.4 % GR (main field), Thiamethoxam 25% WG (seed treatment) + Cartap hydrochloride 4 % GR (main field), Thiamethoxam 25% WG (seed treatment) + Chlorpyrifos 10 % GR (main field), Fipronil 0.3% GR (nursery) + Chlorantraniliprole 0.4 GR % (main field), Fipronil 0.3% GR (nursery) + Cartap hydrochloride 4 % GR (main field), Fipronil 0.3 % GR (nursery) + Chlorpyrifos 10 % GR (main field). The results clearly revealed that Chlorantraniliprole 0.4% GR (main field) was most promising in controlling gall midge with 1.56 % damaged leaves and was at par with treatments Thiamethoxam 25% WG (seed treatment) + Chlorantraniliprole 0.4% GR (main field) (1.58 % damaged leaves), Thiamethoxam 25% WG (seed treatment) (1.62 % damaged leaves), Fipronil 0.3% GR (nursery) + Chlorantraniliprole 0.4% GR (main field). Highest yield was noticed in Chlorantraniliprole (main field) (44.33 q/ha) followed by Fipronil 0.3% GR (nursery) + Chlorantraniliprole 0.4 % GR (main field) (38.59 q/ha) and Chlorpyrifos 10% GR (main field) (38.22 q/ha). ICBR is highest for Carbofuran 3% CG (nursery) followed by Chlorantraniliprole 0.4 %GR (nursery), Fipronil 0.3% GR (nursery), Chlorpyrifos 10% GR (main field) and Thiamethoxam 25% WG (seed treatment).','Leaf folder, Capsulated granules, Damaged leaves','The leaf folder was found to be the serious pests of paddy. From the data it can be concluded that Chlorantraniliprole 0.4 % GR (Main Field) is effective in management of leaf folder. Highest grain yield was recorded in plot treated with Chlorantraniliprole 0.4 % GR (Main Field) followed by Fipronil 0.3% GR (nursery) + Chlorantraniliprole 0.4% GR (main field), Chlorpyrifos 10% GR (main field), Fipronil 0.3% GR (nursery) + Chlorpyrifos 10% GR (main field), Thiamethoxam 25% WG (seed treatment) + Chlorpyrifos 10% GR (main field). Among different treatments, incremental cost benefit ratio in Carbofuran 3% CG (Nursery) was found highest followed by Chlorantraniliprole 0.4% GR (nursery), Fipronil 0.3% GR (nursery), Chlorpyrifos 10% GR (main field). Thus, the above insecticides are the better option to manage leaf folder of paddy.','-','B. Sampath Reddy, B.N. Chaudhari and P.V. Sanap (2023). Evaluation of Insecticides for the Management of Leaf Folder in Rice Crop. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 15(1): 182-188.'),(5952,'148','Effect of different Levels of Nitrogen and Growth Retardant on Yield and Lodging Percent in Transplanted Rice (Oryza sativa L.)','Priyanka J., Ramesha Y.M., Krishnamurthy D., Siddaram and Chandra Naik M.','Effect-of-different-Levels-of-Nitrogen-and-Growth-Retardant-on-Yield-and-Lodging-Percent-in-Transplanted-Rice-_Oryza-sativa-L._-Priyanka J-31.pdf','',1,'Lodging of rice reduces production and may be related to the agronomic practices, regard to this an experiment was conducted during kharif - 2021 at Agricultural Research Station, Dhadesugur to study the effect of different levels of nitrogen and growth retardant on yield and lodging per cent of rice. The experiment was laid out in Randomized Complete Block Design with eleven treatments and replicated thrice. The results revealed that, application of 150% RDN (225 N kg ha-1) + Mepiquat chloride with two spray resulted in higher yield parameters viz., more number of tillers per hill (26.3), productive tillers (22 hill-1), filled grains per panicles (246.6), panicle weight (4.5 g) and highest test weight (21.2 g) which in turn resulted in higher grain (6215 kg ha-1) and straw yield (7181 kg ha-1). Application of nitrogen in combination with mepiquat chloride spray also resulted in higher uptake of NPK (135.83, 42.56 and 121.18 kg ha-1 respectively). Among the different treatments, application of 150% RDN (225 N kg ha-1) + Mepiquat chloride with two spray recorded smaller plant height (84 cm) and lower lodging per cent (2 %) than other treatments which intern recorded higher gross returns (Rs. 124162 ha-1), net returns (Rs. 73642 ha-1) and B:C ratio (2.46 ).','RDN - Recommended dose of Nitrogen, Mepiquat chloride, plant height, yield and lodging per cent','The plant height & lodging per cent have been reduced due to foliar application of mepiquat chloride 5 % Aqueous Solution @ 75 g a.i. ha-1 (1.5 l ha-1) with two spray (one spray at tillering stage 40 DAT and second spray at panicle initiation stage 80 DAT) along with 150 per cent RDN which resulted in more grain yield and net returns. Further, it can be concluded that the application of mepiquat chloride 5 % AS @ 75 g a.i. ha-1 (1.5 l ha-1) before panicle initiation (75-80 DAT) on paddy crop found to be safe and effectively reducing the crop lodging and improving the yield and yield components.','-','Priyanka J., Ramesha Y.M., Krishnamurthy D., Siddaram and Chandra Naik M. (2023). Effect of Different Levels of Nitrogen and Growth Retardant on Yield and Lodging Per Cent in Transplanted Rice (Oryza sativa L.). Biological Forum – An International Journal, 15(1): 189-195.'),(5953,'148','Enhancing Productivity of Blackgram through drip Fertigation','Anitta Fanish S. and S. Paneer Selvam','Enhancing-Productivity-of-Blackgram-through-drip-Fertigation-32.pdf','',1,'Blackgram is mostly grown under rainfed situation and due to the uneven distribution of rainfall; the crop faces moisture stress during the critical stages of their life cycle. Drip fertigation is one of the best available options to increase productivity with less quantity of water and judicious use of fertilizer input. In this regards, field experiments were conducted at Tamil Nadu Agricultural University to evaluate the effect of drip fertigation with Water-Soluble Fertilizer (WSF) on the yield and economics of blackgram cultivation. Blackgram, being a short-duration pulse crop, is widely cultivated under rainfed conditions in sub-marginal land. It results in low productivity. To enhance the productivity of blackgram, study was proposed to evaluate drip fertigation with WSF and straight fertilizer on yield, water use efficiency and net returns in blackgram. The result revealed that 75 per cent yield increment was observed in blackgram with drip fertigation of 100 percent recommended dose of fertilizer through water soluble fertilizer compared to surface irrigation with conventional method of fertilizer application. The same treatment also gave higher net return of Rs. 43132 /ha with benefit cost ratio of 1.98. Hence, it might concluded that drip fertigation of 100% RDF through WSF enhances the productivity and profitability of blackgram.','Drip fertigation, Water soluble fertilizer, Blackgram, WUE, Economic efficiency','In blackgram, low productivity mainly due to cultivation under rainfed condition. To enhance blackgram productivity in a sustainable manner, its cultivation under irrigated condition is highly warranted. The available water for agrarian purpose has been highly used for cultivation of cultivation of high value commercial crops. Hence, effective irrigation strategies may help to achieve maximum productivity with minimum water. This study result revealed that drip fertigation of 100 percent recommended dose of fertilizer through water soluble fertilizer had 75 per cent yield increment over surface irrigation with conventional method of fertilizer application along with high WUE of 4.70 kg/ha mm. The economics also higher with this treatment (net return of Rs. 43132 /ha and benefit cost ratio of 1.98). Hence, it might concluded that drip fertigation of 100% RDF through WSF enhances the productivity and profitability of blackgram.','-','Anitta Fanish S. and S. Paneer Selvam (2023). Enhancing Productivity of Blackgram through drip Fertigation. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 15(1): 196-200.'),(5954,'148','Screening of Brinjal Genotypes against Bacterial Wilt caused by Ralstonia solanacearum','D. Sabina Mary, Gayatri Biswal, G.S. Sahu, A.K. Senapati and K.C. Samal','Screening-of-Brinjal-Genotypes-against-Bacterial-Wilt-caused-by-Ralstonia-solanacearum-D.-Sabina-Mary-33.pdf','',1,'An experiment was conducted to evaluate bacterial wilt resistance among different brinjal genotypes in Department of Plant Pathology, OUAT, Bhubaneswar during 2021-2022. Twenty five brinjal genotypes were screened by artificial inoculation with Ralstonia solanacearum inoculum at a concentration of 1.5 × 108 cfu/ml. Among them Utkal Keshari was highly resistant followed by Utkal Anushree, BB-67, Kanta Bagan and Arka Neelkanth. The variety Hazari Local showed wilt symptoms 50 days after inoculation (2.42%). Nayagarh spiny brinjal (1.56%), BB-67 (1.16%) showed wilt symptoms at 40 days after inoculation. Kanta Bagan (1.86%), Utkal Jyoti (1.17%), VNR-5 (3.57%) exhibited wilt symptoms 30 days after inoculation. Dhenkanal Local (1.49%), Utkal Anushree (1.84%), Utkal Tarini (3.33%) showed wilt symptoms 20 days after inoculation.','Brinjal, bacterial wilt, Ralstonia solanacearum, genotypes','Twenty seven brinjal varieties were screened due to excess application of pesticides are being challenged now a days due to raising concerns about toxic substances causing soil pollution and health issues. Yet it is not feasible due to the development of antibiotic resistance. So that most promising strategy to combat the wilt disease is to develop resistance in the host plant. Based on the above findings, Utkal Keshari was highly resistant followed by Utkal Anushree, Kanta Bagan and Arka Neelkanth lines were found to be resistant. These genotypes can be used in breeding programme for developing resistance against bacterial wilt of brinjal. ','-','D. Sabina Mary, Gayatri Biswal, G.S. Sahu, A.K. Senapati and K.C. Samal (2023). Screening of Brinjal Genotypes Against Bacterial Wilt caused by Ralstonia solanacearum. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 15(1): 201-205.'),(5955,'148','Heterosis and Combining Ability Studies in Okra [Abelmoschus esculentus (L.) Moench] for Yield and Yield Contributing Traits','G. Prakash, G.K. Halesh and B. Fakrudin','Heterosis-and-Combining-Ability-Studies-in-Okra-[Abelmoschus-esculentus-_L._-Moench]-for-Yield-and-Yield-Contributing-Traits-G. Prakash-34.pdf','',1,'Organizing germplasm into various heterotic groups is a crucial aspect for utilizing the benefits of heterosis in hybrid plant breeding. So, the heterosis and combining ability were studied in 48 crosses which were developed using 8 lines and 6 testers as parents. The analysis of variance were significant for all the traits in 48 cross combinations obtained. All the traits studied exhibited the significant difference in mean performance among the parents except fruit diameter, number of seeds and fruit yield. The ratio of GCA and SCA variances indicated the preponderance of non-additive gene effect for inheritance of all the traits. Based on heterosis, OK-2017-010 × Pusa Sawani, OK-2017-010 × Parbhani Kranthi, OK-2017-012 × Parbhani Kranthi crosses were found to be best for fruit yield. Parents IC-69304, VRO-5, OK-2017-010, Pusa Sawani, Parbhani Kranthi and Arka Anamika showed good general combining ability. The estimates of SCA effects revealed that the cross EC-169459 × Parbhani Kranthi, OK-2017-010 × Arka Anamika and OK-2017-012 × Varsha Uphar most promising for fruit yield and other related traits.','Okra, Heterosis, Combining ability, Yield','Line × tester analysis revealed that analysis of variance due to parents and hybrids showed significant difference for most of the traits indicating the presence of sufficient variation in genetic material. Based on the magnitude of relative heterosis, heterobeltosis and standard heterosis values significance for number of traits, the hybrids, OK-2017-010 x Pusa Sawani, OK-2017-010 x Parbhani Kranthi, OK-2017-012 × Parbhani Kranthi, OK- 2017-010 × Pusa- A4, EC-169459 × Pusa- A4, 21-10-1 × Kashi pragathi and OK-2017-006 × Varsha Uphar should be considered for increase yield through selection. According to combining ability IC-69304, VRO-5, OK-2017-010, OK - 2017-006, Pusa Sawani, Pusa-A4, Arka Anamika and Varsha Uphar parents performed better for most of the traits and could be used for developing desirable okra hybrids.Among hybrids EC-169459 × Parbhani Kranthi, OK-2017-010 × Varsha Uphar, OK-2017-010 × Arka Anamika and OK-2017-012 × Varsha Uphar revealed significant positive SCA effects indicating good specific combining ability for number of fruits per plant, yield per plant and yield per hectare. These hybrids could be exploited through heterosis breeding and may also give transgressive segregants in subsequent generations. Therefore, it would be worthwhile to use them for improvement in fruit yield.','-','G. Prakash, G.K. Halesh and B. Fakrudin (2023). Heterosis and Combining Ability Studies in Okra [Abelmoschus esculentus (L.) Moench] for Yield and Yield Contributing Traits. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 15(1): 206-211.'),(5956,'148','Effect of Ecto-parasitic Infestations on Histology and Growth of Clarias gariepinus','Baba Tabasum, Shabana Arjamand, Imtiyaz Qayoom, Sameena Khan and Shabir A. Dar ','Effect-of-Ecto-parasitic-Infestations-on-Histology-and-Growth-of-Clarias-gariepinus-Baba-Tabasum-35.pdf','',1,'Histological alterations in the skin and gills of Clarias gariepinus vis-à-vis effect on important growth parameters such as percentage gain in head length and percentage loss of body weight was studied in Clarias gariepinus infested with ecto-parasites. Out of 217 total specimens of C. gariepinus collected, 91 fishes were found infested with parasites marking overall percentage prevalence of 41.94%. Three parasitic species including Gyrodactylus, Dactylogyrus and Lernea were recovered in this study attached to gills and skin. Fishes procured were segregated and divided into small (<13cm), medium (14-18 cm) and large (>18cm) groups. It was found that percentage head length was increased in parasitized fishes when compared with the non-parasitized ones. The percentage gain in the head length was 99.2%, 118.27% and 109.47% in small, medium and large groups respectively. Similarly, percentage loss in weight recorded was 89.2%, 90.54% and 93.31% in small, medium and large groups respectively. Histological studies revealed profound skin erosion, gill hyperplasia, blood clots and distorted skins muscles.','C. gariepinus, Ecto-parasites, Alterations, Gill, Skin, Growth indices','The behaviour, morphology, and physiology of aquatic organisms are adversely affected by ectoparasites, which lower individual fitness. Parasitic infestations are usually accompanied with the loss in weight and percentage increase in head length of fish. Telangiectasia and aneurism in the secondary gill lamellae, hyperplasia and edema are the most common histological changes induced by those parasites in fish gill. The infected skin reveals eosinophilic infiltration in the integument with muscle fibre atrophy and necrosis in addition to haemorrhages.','-','Baba Tabasum, Shabana Arjamand, Imtiyaz Qayoom, Sameena Khan and Shabir A. Dar (2023). Effect of Ecto-parasitic Infestations on Histology and Growth of Clarias gariepinus. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 15(1): 212-217.'),(5957,'148','Fertilizer Recommendations Developed through STCR with Integrated Nutrient Management Supply for Mustard in Inceptisol','Y.V. Singh, S.K. Singh, P.K. Bharteey, S.R. Borah, Kajal Singh and P. Dey','Fertilizer-Recommendations-Developed-through-STCR-with-Integrated-Nutrient-Management-Supply-for-Mustard-in-Inceptisol-P.K.-Bharteey-36.pdf','',1,'A study was conducted of five locations in village-Parsiya, Naugarh block of district-Chandauli, Uttar Pradesh during Rabi-2019 to evaluate the model through Soil Test Crop Response (STCR). Among the treatments were control, blanket recommendation, STCR-based fertilizer doses for yield objectives of 16 and 20 q ha-1, and farmer\'s practice. Fertilizer doses were calculated and applied for soil test based fertilizer recommendation (STBFR) treatments based on the initial soil test values of available N, P, and K and the amounts of N, P, and K provided by farm yard manure for the corresponding production targets (FYM). The treatments were imposed and cultivation practices were carried out periodically, and the grain yield was recorded at harvest. Using the data on grain yield and fertilizer doses applied, per cent achievement and B:C Ratio (Benefit Cost Ratio) were worked out. Post harvest soil samples were collected and analyzed for available N, P and K status. The results of the studies showed that the percent achievement of the targeted yield was within 10% fluctuation in all five sites, showing the validity of the equations for prescribing integrated fertilizer dosages for mustard. The yield objective of 20 q ha-1 (2020) under STBFR had the highest mean percent attainment, followed by STCR 16 q ha-1. STBFR 20 q ha-1 also had the best benefit: cost ratio (7.39). The post-harvest soil available NPK revealed soil fertility building and maintenance as a result of soil test-based fertilizer recommendations. The IPNS mustard fertilizer prescription equations can be advised for alluvial Inceptisol in Uttar Pradesh\'s Chandauli district to attain a yield objective of 20 q ha-1 with a good economic return.','B:C ratio, STCR, Mustard and Yield target','On the basis of the results of the experiments we conducted, we can say that the study will help establish guidelines for the amount of fertilizer used in mustard fields. Therefore, fertilizer recommendations based on the targeted yield approach are not only valuable for achieving desired yield targets but also take care of the efficient and judicious use of fertilizers in increasing mustard production. Follow-up trials on farmer\'s fields will be conducted to test the validity of these equations while keeping their financial resources in mind. Thereafter, these can be used by soil testing laboratories to make fertilizer recommendations to farming communities in Chandauli district of Uttar Pradesh. ','-','Y.V. Singh, S.K. Singh, P.K. Bharteey, S.R. Borah, Kajal Singh and P. Dey (2023). Fertilizer Recommendations Developed through STCR with Integrated Nutrient Management Supply for Mustard in Inceptisol. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 15(1): 218-221.'),(5958,'148','Ethnobotanical Survey of Medicinal Plants used by Malayali Tribes in Palamalai Hills Salem District, Tamil Nadu, India','Ranjani N., Kannan R., Kokila D. and Bhuvaneswari V.','Ethnobotanical-Survey-of-Medicinal-Plants-used-by-Malayali-Tribes-in-Palamalai-Hills-Salem-District,-Tamil-Nadu,-India-Ranjani-N-37.pdf','',1,'An ethnobotanical survey was carried out among the tribes of Palamalai hills Salem district, Eastern ghats of Tamil Nadu. The traditional healers used native herbal plants for various medicinal purposes with their indigenous knowledge. The information was collected from the people through face-to-face interviews during field trips. The documentation of important medicinal plants used for the treatment of various ailments occurs in their daily life. In this present collection 96 medicinal plant species belonging to 46 families are discussed. The maximum number of medicinal plants belonging to the family Acanthaceae is deserved by 6 species, Andrographis two species, Electraria one species Justicia one species, Ruellia one species and Rungia one species among the 96 species. The plant was mostly used to cure fever, common cold, cough, asthma, rheumatism, etc. In a survey reported of the world health organization, it was found that the 80% population of the world rely on traditional herbal medicine for primary health care need. In this review article discusses the limitation and challenges faced for the production of herbal medicine. There for, this work will also contribute to the search for new drugs and treatments. The documented plants were given in a table that includes respective families along with their botanical name, habit, vernacular name and medicinal uses. Medicinal plants used by local people in Palamalai has been listed along with plant parts used for their ethnomedicinal significance. An exhaustive survey was carried out for one year from 2019 to 2020.','Ethnobotanical studies, Tribes, Medicinal plants, Palamalai hills, Traditional Knowledge','Medicinal plants in Palamalai hills play an important role in the primary health care of the tribal people. Herbal medicines are comparably secure to synthetic drugs. The tribal people are more knowledgeable and experienced in conventional medicinal practices because it comes from thousands of years of trial and error. In the present study, 96 plants were documented, and among these 41 plants were herbs, 17 were shrubs, 12 were climbers and 26 were trees. They are using the plants for diuretics, snake bites, skin diseases, diabetics, cough & cold, body pain, and diarrhea as anti-inflammatory and anti-cancerous diseases. Besides, the plants need to be evaluated through phytochemical analysis to discover the possibility of drugs.','-','Ranjani N., Kannan R., Kokila D. and Bhuvaneswari V. (2023). Ethnobotanical Survey of Medicinal Plants used by Malayali Tribes in Palamalai Hills Salem District, Tamil Nadu, India. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 15(1): 222-229.'),(5959,'147','Hybrid Sarima-Ann Model for Forecasting Monthly Wholesale Price and Arrival Series of Tomato Crop','Pushpa, Joginder Kumar and Vikram','Hybrid-Sarima-Ann-Model-for-Forecasting-Monthly-Wholesale-Price-and-Arrival-Series-of-Tomato-Crop-PUSHPA-103.pdf','',1,'Agricultural prices forecasting are the major concern for the policy makers as they directly affect the profitability of farming as an occupation. A hybrid model is considered to be an effective way to improve forecast accuracy. The hybrid model of the linear seasonal autoregressive moving average (SARIMA) and the nonlinear Artificial neural network (ANN) is proposed in this paper for estimating and forecasting the monthly wholesale price and arrival series of tomato crop. The goodness of fit of the model is measured using Akaike information criteria (AIC), root mean square error (RMSE), and mean absolute percentage error (MAPE), while post-sample forecast accuracy is measured using mean absolute error (MAE) and percent standard error of prediction (SEP). The study clearly shows that the hybrid (SARIMA-ANN) model is superior for forecasting the monthly wholesale prices and arrival series of tomato in the Gurugram market. The R (4.1.3) software is used for the analysis.','Price and arrival forecasting, MAE, SARIMA, SARIMA-ANN, and SEP','This study compared the modelling and forecasting performance of SARIMA and Hybrid (SARIMA-ANN) models using monthly wholesale price and arrival series of tomato crops in Gurugram market of Haryana. The goal of this study is short term forecast up to one year with different forecast horizons, such as 1, 3, 6, 9 and 12 months. SARIMA(1,1,2)(1,1,1)12 and SARIMA(2,1,2)(0,1,0)12 are the suitable models for capturing the linear pattern of price and arrival series, with the lowest AIC, RMSE, and MAPE values and significance parameter estimation. In comparison to the SARIMA and Hybrid models, the hybrid models provide better forecasting accuracy in terms of the lowest value of performance statistics such as MAE and SEP for 6, 9, and 12 months ahead forecast, whereas the SARIMA model performs better for 1 and 3 months ahead forecast.','-','Pushpa, Joginder Kumar and Vikram (2022). Hybrid Sarima-Ann Model for Forecasting Monthly Wholesale Price and Arrival Series of Tomato Crop. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 14(4a): 591-596.'),(5960,'147','A Study on the Level of Terrestrial Gamma and Gross Alpha Activity in Sirumalai, Dindigul District, Tamil Nadu','M. Mohamed Thasneem and R. Krishnamoorthy','A-Study-on-the-Level-of-Terrestrial-Gamma-and-Gross-Alpha-Activity-in-Sirumalai,-Dindigul-District,Tamil-Nadu-R.-Krishnamoorthy-104.pdf','',4,'This study presents the results of outdoor ambient gamma and gross alpha activity of Sirumalai, Dindigul district, Tamil Nadu, and these measurements were carried out by using environmental radiation Scintillation Counter (UR-705). Results showed that the terrestrial Gamma radiation levels of the Sirumalai was ranged from 4.33±0.47µR/h to 12.67±0.47µR/h. The Gross alpha radioactivity levels of the Sirumalai ranged between 8.25Bq/kg and 26.56 Bq/kg. The calculated ambient gamma and gross alpha activity were found to be lesser than the world average. Gamma absorbed dose rates in air outdoors were calculated to be in the range between 37.671nGy/h and 110.23nGy/h. This value is slightly higher than the population weighted world-averaged of 60 nGy/h. Inhabitants of Sirumalai are subjected to external gamma Annual dose exposure ranging between 0.0462mGy/y and 0.1352mGy/y. The result reveals the non-uniform distribution of Gamma radiation and an irregular distribution of radiation profile was observed during the survey period. The values of the external hazard index determined from the soil radioactivity of the study area are less than the recommended safe levels.','Sirumalai hills, Gross alpha, terrestrial gamma radiation','The present study investigates on the ambient gamma survey of Sirumalai sediment samples and the resulting radiation dose from ambient gamma radionuclides. In addition to that, the estimation of the absorbed gamma dose rate, and the annual effective dose rate were also studied. The data presented in this study will serve as a baseline survey for naturally occurring radionuclides concentration and radiation exposure in Sirumalai. The ambient gamma values ranged from 4.33±0.47 to 12.67±0.47µR/h, ambient gamma absorbed dose rate (37.67-110.23Gy/h) and ambient gamma annual effective dose rate (0.046-0.135mSv/y) in the Panrimalai area measured from radiation survey meter was found to be lower when compared to the worldwide average value of 0.42 mSv/y. From the present study, it was concluded that the non-uniform distribution of ambient gamma, absorbed dose rate, and annual effective dose rate in the soil samples of Sirumalai was found to be less than that of the recommended safe levels.','-','M. Mohamed Thasneem and R. Krishnamoorthy (2022). A Study on the Level of Terrestrial Gamma and Gross Alpha Activity in Sirumalai, Dindigul District, Tamil Nadu. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 14(4a): 600-604.'),(5961,'147','Standardization of Protocol for Mass Proliferation and Rooting of Gynogenically induced Regenerants in African Marigolds (Tagetes erecta L.)','Eram Arzoo, Reeta Bhatia*, Kavita Dubey, Kanwar Pal Singh, and Sapna Panwar','Standardization-of-Protocol-for-Mass-Proliferation-and-Rooting-of-Gynogenically-induced-Regenerantes-in-African-Marigolds-(Tagetes-erecta-L.)E.-Arzoo-105.pdf','',4,'In vitro gynogenesis has been widely used for the induction of haploids and doubled haploids in many petaloid-type genotypes of marigold. The in vitro mass multiplication and rooting of gynogenically induced shoots is still the hardest part of their production. The high percentage of mortality in gynogenically induced shoots encountered during proliferation, rooting, and hardening, often limits their wider utility in the breeding of marigold. Therefore, in the present study efforts have been made to develop an efficient protocol for in vitro shoot proliferation and rooting of gynogenically induced regenerates of African marigold. Micro-shoots of 2-3 cm in length from healthy gynogenically induced shoots of genotypes ‘DAMH-24’ and ‘DAMH-55’ were cultured on modified MS medium supplemented with different concentrations of cytokinins and auxins. The minimum days required for shoot emergence and maximum increase in fresh weight of cultured shoots were observed on modified MS medium enriched with BAP (0.5 mgl-1), the longest shoot length and the number of leaf pairs per branch were recorded on MS medium fortified with 1.0 mgl-1 BAP. The maximum increase in the number of micro-shoots from gynogenically induced shoots was recorded on MS medium supplemented with KIN (0.25 mgl-1). The earliest rooting, highest rooting percent, better root growth character, and highest number of roots per micro-shoots were recorded on the treatment comprising of ½ MS medium supplemented with NAA (0.5 mgl-1). Among both the genotypes ‘DAMH-24’ responded better than ‘DAMH-55’ during in vitro proliferation and rooting of gynogenically induced shoots. This protocol is highly useful for the development of plants for further hardening after rooting with cutinized, strengthened shoots from in vitro gynogenically developed plantlets, which will further help in development of high-yielding F1 hybrids.','Tagetes erecta L., In vitro proliferation, Rooting, Gynogenesis, Growth regulators','It can be concluded that the modified MS medium supplemented with KIN (0.25 mgl-1) resulted in the maximum increase in the number of micro-shoots from gynogenically induced shoots and thus can be successfully utilized for mass proliferation. While the ½ strength MS medium supplemented with NAA (0.5 mgl-1) can be successfully utilized for early root induction, highest rooting percent, better root growth character, and induction of highest number of roots per micro-shoots. The developed protocol can be effective for in vitro maintenance of gynogenically induced haploid. Among both the varieties ‘DAMH-24’ performs best viz. days required for shoot emergence, increase in fresh weight of cultured shoots, shoot length, number of leaf pairs per branch, days to rooting, rooting percent, root growth character and no. of roots per micro-shoots. On the other hand ‘DAMH-55’, has less efficiency towards in vitro proliferation and rooting of gynogenically induced shoots. The standardized protocols can, also be effectively utilized for improving the vigor and large-scale mass multiplication of gynogenically induced shoots. ','-','Eram Arzoo, Reeta Bhatia, Kavita Dubey, Kanwar Pal Singh, and Sapna Panwar (2022). Standardization of Protocol for Mass Proliferation and Rooting of Gynogenically induced Regenerats in African Marigolds (Tagetes erecta L.). Biological Forum – An International Journal, 14(4a): 605-611.'),(5962,'147','A Study on the Level of Terrestrial Gamma and Gross Alpha Activity in Sirumalai, Dindigul District, Tamil Nadu','M. Mohamed Thasneem and R. Krishnamoorthy','A-Study-on-the-Level-of-Terrestrial-Gamma-and-Gross-Alpha-Activity-in-Sirumalai,-Dindigul-District,Tamil-Nadu-R.-Krishnamoorthy-104.pdf','',1,'This study presents the results of outdoor ambient gamma and gross alpha activity of Sirumalai, Dindigul district, Tamil Nadu, and these measurements were carried out by using environmental radiation Scintillation Counter (UR-705). Results showed that the terrestrial Gamma radiation levels of the Sirumalai was ranged from 4.33±0.47µR/h to 12.67±0.47µR/h. The Gross alpha radioactivity levels of the Sirumalai ranged between 8.25Bq/kg and 26.56 Bq/kg. The calculated ambient gamma and gross alpha activity were found to be lesser than the world average. Gamma absorbed dose rates in air outdoors were calculated to be in the range between 37.671nGy/h and 110.23nGy/h. This value is slightly higher than the population weighted world-averaged of 60 nGy/h. Inhabitants of Sirumalai are subjected to external gamma Annual dose exposure ranging between 0.0462mGy/y and 0.1352mGy/y. The result reveals the non-uniform distribution of Gamma radiation and an irregular distribution of radiation profile was observed during the survey period. The values of the external hazard index determined from the soil radioactivity of the study area are less than the recommended safe levels.','Sirumalai hills, Gross alpha, terrestrial gamma radiation','The present study investigates on the ambient gamma survey of Sirumalai sediment samples and the resulting radiation dose from ambient gamma radionuclides. In addition to that, the estimation of the absorbed gamma dose rate, and the annual effective dose rate were also studied. The data presented in this study will serve as a baseline survey for naturally occurring radionuclides concentration and radiation exposure in Sirumalai. The ambient gamma values ranged from 4.33±0.47 to 12.67±0.47µR/h, ambient gamma absorbed dose rate (37.67-110.23Gy/h) and ambient gamma annual effective dose rate (0.046-0.135mSv/y) in the Panrimalai area measured from radiation survey meter was found to be lower when compared to the worldwide average value of 0.42 mSv/y. From the present study, it was concluded that the non-uniform distribution of ambient gamma, absorbed dose rate, and annual effective dose rate in the soil samples of Sirumalai was found to be less than that of the recommended safe levels.','-','M. Mohamed Thasneem and R. Krishnamoorthy (2022). A Study on the Level of Terrestrial Gamma and Gross Alpha Activity in Sirumalai, Dindigul District, Tamil Nadu. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 14(4a): 600-604.'),(5963,'147','Standardization of Protocol for Mass Proliferation and Rooting of Gynogenically induced Regenerants in African Marigolds (Tagetes erecta L.)','Eram Arzoo, Reeta Bhatia, Kavita Dubey, Kanwar Pal Singh, and Sapna Panwar','Standardization-of-Protocol-for-Mass-Proliferation-and-Rooting-of-Gynogenically-induced-Regenerantes-in-African-Marigolds-(Tagetes-erecta-L.)E.-Arzoo-105.pdf','',1,'In vitro gynogenesis has been widely used for the induction of haploids and doubled haploids in many petaloid-type genotypes of marigold. The in vitro mass multiplication and rooting of gynogenically induced shoots is still the hardest part of their production. The high percentage of mortality in gynogenically induced shoots encountered during proliferation, rooting, and hardening, often limits their wider utility in the breeding of marigold. Therefore, in the present study efforts have been made to develop an efficient protocol for in vitro shoot proliferation and rooting of gynogenically induced regenerates of African marigold. Micro-shoots of 2-3 cm in length from healthy gynogenically induced shoots of genotypes ‘DAMH-24’ and ‘DAMH-55’ were cultured on modified MS medium supplemented with different concentrations of cytokinins and auxins. The minimum days required for shoot emergence and maximum increase in fresh weight of cultured shoots were observed on modified MS medium enriched with BAP (0.5 mgl-1), the longest shoot length and the number of leaf pairs per branch were recorded on MS medium fortified with 1.0 mgl-1 BAP. The maximum increase in the number of micro-shoots from gynogenically induced shoots was recorded on MS medium supplemented with KIN (0.25 mgl-1). The earliest rooting, highest rooting percent, better root growth character, and highest number of roots per micro-shoots were recorded on the treatment comprising of ½ MS medium supplemented with NAA (0.5 mgl-1). Among both the genotypes ‘DAMH-24’ responded better than ‘DAMH-55’ during in vitro proliferation and rooting of gynogenically induced shoots. This protocol is highly useful for the development of plants for further hardening after rooting with cutinized, strengthened shoots from in vitro gynogenically developed plantlets, which will further help in development of high-yielding F1 hybrids.','Tagetes erecta L., In vitro proliferation, Rooting, Gynogenesis, Growth regulators','It can be concluded that the modified MS medium supplemented with KIN (0.25 mgl-1) resulted in the maximum increase in the number of micro-shoots from gynogenically induced shoots and thus can be successfully utilized for mass proliferation. While the ½ strength MS medium supplemented with NAA (0.5 mgl-1) can be successfully utilized for early root induction, highest rooting percent, better root growth character, and induction of highest number of roots per micro-shoots. The developed protocol can be effective for in vitro maintenance of gynogenically induced haploid. Among both the varieties ‘DAMH-24’ performs best viz. days required for shoot emergence, increase in fresh weight of cultured shoots, shoot length, number of leaf pairs per branch, days to rooting, rooting percent, root growth character and no. of roots per micro-shoots. On the other hand ‘DAMH-55’, has less efficiency towards in vitro proliferation and rooting of gynogenically induced shoots. The standardized protocols can, also be effectively utilized for improving the vigor and large-scale mass multiplication of gynogenically induced shoots. ','-','Eram Arzoo, Reeta Bhatia, Kavita Dubey, Kanwar Pal Singh, and Sapna Panwar (2022). Standardization of Protocol for Mass Proliferation and Rooting of Gynogenically induced Regenerats in African Marigolds (Tagetes erecta L.). Biological Forum – An International Journal, 14(4a): 602-607.'),(5964,'148','Effect of Micronutrients (Zinc and Manganese) on Growth, Quality Flower Production and Postharvest Vase Life of La Hybrid Lilium Cv. Pavia','Nivya K.R., M.K. Singh, Namita, Ritu Jain, Rakesh Pandey and M.C. Meena ','Effect-of-Micronutrients-(Zinc-and-Manganese)-on-Growth,-Quality-Flower-Production-and-Postharvest-Vase-Life-of-La-Hybrid-Lilium-Cv.-PaviaNivya-KR-38.pdf','',1,'Lilium is one of the most important ornamental bulbous flowering plant possess a conspicuous position among the top ten cut flowers in the world. Optimum dose of micronutrients is very important for better growth and quality flower production. So the present study has been carried out to determining the optimum dose of micronutrients in North Indian plains conditions. A field experiment was carried out to study the effect of zinc and manganese on growth, quality flower production and postharvest vase life of LA hybrid lilium cv. Pavia during 2021-22. The experiment was laid out in a factorial randomized block design with two factors (ZnSO4 and MnSO4) comprising five levels (distilled water, 2 g/l, 4 g/l, 6 g/l and 8 g/l) of micronutrients. Overall best result was found in the interaction of ZnSO4 and MnSO4, when plants are sprayed with ZnSO4+ MnSO4@ 6g/l each performed better in terms of plant growth analysis parameters viz., crop growth rate (4.46 g/m2 land area/day), leaf area index (1.98) and total chlorophyll content in leaves (8.45 mg/g); quality parameters, viz., stalk length (99.23 cm), stalk diameter (1.36 cm), number of flower buds per plant (8.53), bud length (11.86 cm), bud diameter (4.21 cm) and flower size (20.20 cm); postharvest vase life parameters, viz., number of days from harvesting to primary flower opening in flower vase (2.13 days), number of days fromharvesting to primary flower withering (6.93 days) and complete flower withering (12.60 days) in flower vase whereas least values were recorded in control.','Lilium, micronutrients, zinc sulphate, manganese sulphate','From the result of the experiment, it was concluded that combined foliar application of micronutrients was effective than single application. Among the treatments, combined foliar spray of ZnSO4 6g/l +MnSO4 6g/l recorded best results for growth, quality of flowers and postharvest vase life of LA hybrid Lilium cv. Pavia.','-','Nivya K.R., M.K. Singh, Namita, Ritu Jain, Rakesh Pandey and M.C. Meena (2023). Effect of Micronutrients (Zinc and Manganese) on Growth, Quality Flower Production and Postharvest Vase Life of La Hybrid Lilium Cv. Pavia. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 15(1): 230-236.'),(5965,'148','Inclusion of Seed Production in Rice Based Cropping Sequence as a Means for Doubling Farmers’ Income','Sanjib Ranjan Borah, Pompi Dutta, Sameeron Bhattacharjya, Milan Jyoti Konwar, Mayuri Baruah, Arunima Bharali, Rituraj Saikia, Jyoti Lekha Borah and Sanjay Kr Chetia ','Inclusion-of-Seed-Production-in-Rice-Based-Cropping-Sequence-as-a-Means-for-Doubling-Farmers’-IncomeSanjib-Ranjan-Borah-39.pdf','',1,'A field experiment was conducted during the year 2020-21 at Laliti village under Dhekargarah Development Block, Jorhat, Assam to study the productivity and profitability of different rice-based cropping systems with medium duration high yielding winter paddy variety TTB 404 (Shraboni) developed by Assam Agricultural University followed by high yielding toria variety TS-38 with special emphasis on seed production towards doubling farmer’s income under rainfed, medium land rice ecosystem. Farmers of the area generally practice grain production and thus get low return from sale of their crop. Treatments comprises of three different cropping systems with different crop enterprises. The highest production use efficiency (PUE) (0.23 q/ha/day) and land use efficiency (LUE) (0.61 %) was observed in HYV winter paddy (TTB-404)-HYV of Toria (TS-38) sequence under seed production followed by HYV of winter paddy (TTB-404)- HYV of Toria (TS-38) (PUE- 0.19 q/ha/day & LUE-0.61%) sequence under grain production. However, the highest grain yield in terms of rice grain equivalent yield (84.6 q/ha) was found in HYV of winter paddy (TTB-404)-HYV of Toria (TS-38) sequence under seed production followed by HYV of winter paddy (TTB-404)-HYV of Toria (TS-38) sequence under grain production (70.7 q/ha). The highest gross return, net return and benefit - cost ratio was recorded in winter paddy (TTB-404)-Toria(TS-38) sequence under seed production (Rs. 2,53,860, Rs. 1,63,510 and 2.8) followed by winter paddy (TTB-404)-Toria (TS-38) sequence under grain production(Rs. 70,660.80, Rs. 30,760.80 and 1.8) respectively. Thus, introduction of seed production has increased the farmer’s net income from Rs. 30, 760 to 1, 63,510 and contributed towards doubling farmer’s income. Inclusion of seed production of HYVs in the cropping sequence is found essential in contributing towards doubling the farmer’s income as well as to minimize the gap of quality seed availability.','Production use efficiency (PUE), land use efficiency (LUE) HYV Seeds, RGEY, Net Return, Doubling farmers’ income','Agriculture provides livelihood to more than half of India’s population, most of who grow rice as their main crop. The rice production has been increasing but the profit margin needs to be increased further. With the huge potential that the rice market has, seed production can be a source to increasing the income of farmers. From the present study it may be concluded that inclusion of seed production of high yielding varieties (HYVs) in the cropping sequence not only increases the production, productivity of crops but also helps in increasing the farmers income as the higher returns from the seed production leads to higher profit margins and thus can be considered as a source to doubling farmers income. ','-','Sanjib Ranjan Borah, Pompi Dutta, Sameeron Bhattacharjya, Milan Jyoti Konwar, Mayuri Baruah, Arunima Bharali, Rituraj Saikia, Jyoti Lekha Borah and Sanjay Kr Chetia (2023). Inclusion of Seed Production in Rice Based Cropping Sequence as a Means for Doubling Farmers’ Income. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 15(1): 237-242.'),(5966,'148','Genetic Variability Studies for Growth, Yield and Quality Traits in Chilli (Capsicum annuum L.) Germplasm under Sub Tropical conditions of Jammu','Atal Hameedi, Satesh Kumar, R. K. Samnotra, S.K. Rai, Manish Kr. Sharma and Vikas Abrol ','Genetic-Variability-Studies-for-Growth,-Yield-and-Quality-Traits-in-Chilli-(Capsicum-annuum-L.)-Germplasm-under-Sub-Tropical-conditions-of-Jammu-Atal-Hameedi-40.pdf','',1,'The present genetic variability studies in chilli (Capsicum annuum L.) was laid out at SKUAST, Chatha, Jammu in 2022. The experiment was conducted in Randomized Complete Block Design (RCBD) with three replications comprising 20 genotypes to study genetic variability, heritability, genetic advance and genetic advance as percent of mean among 17 different characters. Analysis of variance elucidated significant variations among the genotypes for all the characters studied. The GCV and PCV were high for number of fruits per plant (32.43% and 34.09%), yield per plant (32.18% and 33.73%), yield per hectare (32.18% and 33.73%), fruit weight (28.56% and 30.12%), number of seeds per fruit (26.61% and 28.68%) and capsaicin content (21.87% and 24.12%). High heritability was noticed for yield per plant (91.01%) and yield per hectare (91.01 %), number of fruits per plant (90.48%), fruit weight (89.88%), seed vigour index (88.59%), number of seeds per fruit (86.05%), capsaicin content (82.23%), number of primary branches per plant (81.86%), oleoresin content (81.70%), plant height (80.05%), fruit length (79.06%), fruit width (75.09%) and seed germination (60.92%). However, high genetic advance was obtained by yield per plant (388.16), followed by seed vigour index (188.32%), number of fruits per plant (121.00) and yield per hectare (99.38) and genetic advance as percent of mean was higher in case of number of fruits per plant (63.54%), yield per plant (63.25%), and yield per hectare (63.25%), fruit weight (55.77%), number of seeds per fruit (50.84%) and capsaicin content (40.86%), indicated that most of the traits studied were chiefly controlled by additive gene effect and thus selection may be rewarding.','Chilli, Genetic variability, heritability, genetic advance, genetic advance as percent of mean','The highest genotypic and phenotypic coefficient of variation, genetic advance and genetic advance as percent or mean was recorded for yield per plant, yield per hectare number of fruits per plant, fruit weight, number of seeds per fruit, capsaicin content, seed vigour index, number of primary branches per plant, oleoresin content, fruit length, fruit width, and plant height. Therefore, showing the importance of these characters in the selection of a genotype for growth, yield and quality in chilli.','-','Atal Hameedi, Satesh Kumar, R. K. Samnotra, S.K. Rai, Manish Kr. Sharma and Vikas Abrol (2023). Genetic Variability Studies for Growth, Yield and Quality Traits in Chilli (Capsicum annuum L.) Germplasm under Sub Tropical conditions of Jammu. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 15(1): 243-247.'),(5967,'148','Study on Utilization Pattern of Indigenous Technical Knowledge (ITK) among Farm Families in Patna District of Bihar','Ashish Anand, Syed H. Mazhar, Sweta Sahoo, Smaranika Mohanty and Soumya Sakti Dash ','Study-on-Utilization-Pattern-of-Indigenous-Technical-Knowledge-_ITK_-among-Farm-Families-in-Patna-District-of-Bihar-Sweta-Sahoo-41.pdf','',1,'Indigenous technical knowledge has been traditionally owned wisdom from time to time, but as the years passed owing to the evolution of modern technologies, it is likely to be forgotten by the society. Due to ecological imbalance and exploitative use of land, water and other natural resources, their ecology is disturbed which ultimately brings down agricultural productivity. There is a poor alliance between the practice of traditional and modern knowledge. An appropriate association between the traditional and modern knowledge and technology systems has immense potential to benefit the society. Regarding this, the present study was conducted in Patna District of Bihar to find out the “Utilization pattern of Indigenous Technical Knowledge (ITK) among farm families”. A total of 120 respondents were selected randomly for the present study. The data were collected through a pre-structured interview schedule and appropriate statistical analysis was done to find out the utilization pattern. Eleven ITK practices was selected to quantify utilization pattern by farm families. It was observed that use of “Bijamrut” was most prominent ITK practised among farm families. Regarding utilization level, it has been found that majority of the respondents (70.83%) were having medium level of utilization pattern followed by low (15.00%) and high (14.17%) level. These results will be of much help to policy makers to document these ITK practices for sustainable food production. There are some challenges related to the present study i.e., the study was confined to the Sampatchak block of Patna district of Bihar only, which is a very small proportion of the state in respect of geographical area hence, may be considered a micro study. Also, findings of the present study will be helpful in providing scientific explanation to the experientially generated knowledge and age-old farming practices, of which utilization rate must be high. ','Association, Documentation, ITK, Level of utilization, Pre structured interview schedule, Quantify','Present study focused on assessing the association between socio economic profile and utilization level of ITK among farmers. It was found that use of Bijamrut was most prominent ITK practised among sampled ITK practitioners. It was also observed from the study that majority of respondents i.e. 70.83 per cent had medium level of utilization of ITK. ','-','Ashish Anand, Syed H. Mazhar, Sweta Sahoo, Smaranika Mohanty and Soumya Sakti Dash (2023). Study on Utilization Pattern of Indigenous Technical Knowledge (ITK) among Farm Families in Patna District of Bihar. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 15(1): 248-251.'),(5968,'148','Screening of Soybean Genotypes for Resistance to Root rot Disease caused by Rhizoctonia solani in Assam condition','Priyankee Dutta, Munmi Borah and Prasanta Kumar Goswami','Screening-of-Soybean-Genotypes-for-Resistance-to-Root-rot-Disease-caused-by-Rhizoctonia-solani-in-Assam-condition-42.pdf','',1,'The productivity of Soybean in Assam condition is greatly hampered by the numerous biotic factors. Frequent rainfall in the area provides a suitable environment for occurrence of numerous diseases. Among all the diseases affecting soybean, Rhizoctonia rot is worth mentioning. The wide host range of the pathogen causes difficulty in its management and so developing resistant genotypes against the pathogen is of great importance. Screening genotypes for developing resistance can help us to reduce the impact of the disease and reduce crop losses. Forty varieties received from AICRP (All India Coordinated research Project) on soybean were evaluated at Jorhat, Assam under green house and field conditions during the year 2018 and 2019 to identify sources of genetic resistance against rhizoctonia root rot disease incited by the Rhizoctonia solani. The fungus was isolated from diseased soybean seedlings collected from ICR farm at seedling stage, purified and maintained on PDA. Fungus inoculated soil was prepared and seeds were sown.In greenhouse experiment, out of 40 soybean varieties no varieties exhibited immune and resistant reaction, 22 varieties exhibited moderately resistant reaction, 12 varieties exhibited moderately susceptible reaction and 4 varieties exhibited highly susceptible reaction. Under the field conditions, the PDI varied from 6.2 to 24 % with highest disease severity shown by HIMSO-1689 variety.','Rhizoctonia root rot, Rhizoctonia solani, Soybean, Genetic resistance','As a conclusion, from this experiment it was noted that both field and greenhouse screening showed similar results. None of the genotypes was found immune or resistant to the pathogen. Only 22 genotypes namely PS1637, JS21-71, MACS1566, SL1191, HIMSO1688, PS24, RSC11-17, MAUS734, Dsb33, NRC138, PS1347, NRC139, SL1171, MAUS732, NRC148, RVSM2011-35, VLS97, NRCSL2, KDS1009, BAUS100, BRAGG, JS335 however showed moderate resistance against the pathogen. Later, findings of root rot genes for resistance from above sources may help to develop new soybean cultivars with improved root rot resistance.','-','Priyankee Dutta, Munmi Borah and Prasanta Kumar Goswami (2023). Screening of Soybean Genotypes for Resistance to Root rot Disease caused by Rhizoctonia solani in Assam condition. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 15(1): 252-257.'),(5969,'148','Proximate, Physicochemical and Functional Analysis of Herbal Frozen Dessert','Pavithra T., Geetha P., Selvan P. and Karpoora Sundara Pandian N.','Proximate,-Physicochemical-and-Functional-Analysis-of-Herbal-Frozen-Dessert-Pavithra-T-43.pdf','',1,'The aim of the study was to estimate the physiochemical, proximate and sensory attributes of functional frozen dessert prepared with plectranthus ambionicus herb and rice bran oil. Inclusion of these compounds results in variety of health benefits like antioxidant properties, antimicrobial properties etc which naturally absent in normal frozen dessert. The inclusion level of herb was standardized based on sensory evaluation of panelists. The development of frozen dessert includes the addition of herb in different concentrations and replacement of saturated fat by rice bran oil to obtain a product with functional attributes. Among the various concentrations, 30% herb obtained highest overall acceptability value of 8.76 was chosen as a finalized combination. The increase of the herbal extract leads to decrease in viscosity, overrun, pH, total solids, carbohydrates whereas increases the titratable acidity, moisture, ash, protein content of the frozen dessert. There was a significant increase in the antioxidant activity, total phenolic content and total flavonoid content. Thus, by using fat substitute and herb in frozen dessert resulted in antioxidant rich functional dairy product.','Functional, rice bran oil, herbal, frozen dessert, antioxidant','The functional properties produced by the secondary metabolites which are naturally present in the herb includes alkaloids, polyphenols make these herb as a health substance. People in the recent times have retrieved the knowledge of herbal usage because of the scenario with the COVID epidemic. Plectranthus ambionicus herb and rice bran oil can be used to formulate functional products because it contains significant amounts of polyphenols and phytosterols which displays antioxidant activity. Addition of herbal extract significantly altered the proximate composition and physiochemical characteristics. Ice creams formulated with functional ingredients showed higher functional properties than the control. However, the amount of herbal extract in the frozen dessert above 30 percent reduced the sensory scores significantly (P<0.01). It can be concluded that Plectranthus ambionicus herb and rice bran oil can be used as a natural ingredient to formulate a novel dairy product with enriched functional properties. Future studies can be made to improve the textural stability of frozen dessert with increased herbal extract concentrations.','-','Pavithra T., Geetha P., Selvan P. and Karpoora Sundara Pandian N. (2023). Proximate, Physicochemical and Functional Analysis of Herbal Frozen Dessert. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 15(1): 258-263.'),(5970,'148','Yield Attributing Traits and Economic Efficacy of Pineapple as Influenced by Plant Growth Regulators and Micronutrients','Bijay Kumar Baidya, Kundan Kishore, Deepa Samant, S.N. Dash, R.K. Panda, Ankita Sahu and Kuldeep K. Shukla ','Yield-Attributing-Traits-and-Economic-Efficacy-of-Pineapple-as-Influenced-by-Plant-Growth-Regulators-and-Micronutrients-Bijay-Kumar-Baidya-44.pdf','',1,'An experiment was conducted to study the influence of growth regulators and micronutrients on yield attributing traits and economic efficacy of pineapple (Ananas comosus L.) cv. MD-2. Challenges faced by pineapple growing farmers are not getting optimum and uniform-sized fruits required for high yield which leads to fetching lesser prices in the market and the fruits are also of no export standards. Therefore, the study was conducted during 2020-21 and 2021-22 to find out the effective concentration of plant growth regulators and micronutrients as well as their combination for obtaining a high yield of pineapple fruits. In the present study, it was observed that the application of growth regulators and micronutrients at the flower initiation stage was found beneficial for increasing the yield of pineapple fruits. While the combined spraying of NAA 200 mg L-1 along with boron 100 mg L-1 and zinc 100 mg L-1 at the flower initiation stage was beneficial for getting higher fruit yield (35.98 ton ha-1) and maximizing the gross return (` 8.16 lakhs ha-1) as well as net return (` 4.57 lakhs ha-1) with a high benefit-cost ratio (2.33) of pineapple cv.MD-2.','Plant growth regulators, micronutrients, NAA (naphthalene acetic acid), GA (gibberellic acid), BR (brassinosteroid), boron, zinc, yield, economics, pineapple, MD-2','Based on the finding of the investigation it may be concluded that application with NAA 200 mg L-1 along with boron 100 mg L-1 and zinc 100 mg L-1 at the flower initiation stage is beneficial for getting optimum sized fruits which results in higher fruit yield as well as higher net return with high benefit to cost ratio of pineapple. It is also observed that the application of brassinosteroid showed the lowest benefit-to-cost ratio as the price of brassinosteroid is much higher compared to other plant growth regulators and produced comparatively lesser yield which is not profitable. Hence the application of NAA along with boron and zinc is profitable in pineapple fruit when compared to other treatments.','-','Bijay Kumar Baidya, Kundan Kishore, Deepa Samant, S.N. Dash, R.K. Panda, Ankita Sahu and Kuldeep K. Shukla (2023). Yield Attributing Traits and Economic Efficacy of Pineapple as Influenced by Plant Growth Regulators and Micronutrients. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 15(1): 264-267.'),(5971,'148','Evaluation of Cone and Flat Fan Nozzle used for Agricultural Drone Spraying and its Performance Assessment','Kailashkumar B., S.S. Sivakumar, J. John Gunasekar, V. Alex Albert and R. Ravikumar ','Evaluation-of-Cone-and-Flat-Fan-Nozzle-used-for-Agricultural-Drone-Spraying-and-its-Performance-Assessment-Kailashkumar B-45.pdf','',1,'Pesticide application plays an important role in pest management. Proper technique of application of pesticide and the equipments used for applying pesticide are vital for the success of pest control operations. A spray patternator was created to test the spray liquid application rates of several drone spraying nozzle types. The spray distribution pattern for cone and flat fan nozzle was evaluated under various working pressuresand nozzle height. The nozzles are placed at different heights of 200, 300, 400, 500, 600 mm from the patternator surface and different operating pressures of 2, 4, 6 and 8 kg/cm2. The distribution pattern demonstrates that the discharge reaches its highest value near the patternator\'s centre, and the spray volume received by the channel diminishes as the distance from the centre rises. The cone nozzle has a maximum discharge rate of 646.0 ml/min, while the flat fan nozzle has a maximum discharge rate of 827.0 ml/min at a working pressure of 8.0 kg/cm2. The cone nozzle provided a spray that was uniform and had the lowest coefficient of variation at all pressures and heights tested. As long as the nozzle pressure is 8 kg/cm2 at 54.46° and the height is 600mm, the optimum spray volumetric distribution and the lowest coefficient of variation may be achieved by utilising this model. Flat fan nozzle with 62.24° nozzle angle, 600 mm height, and 6 kg/cm2 nozzle pressure provided the best spray volumetric distribution and the lowest coefficient of variation.In addition, the mean value of swath width increases with an increase in working pressure for both the nozzles. This evaluation supports using a flat fan and cone nozzle in drone spraying applications to improve spray distribution.','Drone spraying, Flat Fan Nozzle, Cone Nozzle, Uniformity, Pressure, Droplets','A spray patternator was created with the purpose of choosing the ideal nozzle type, angle, and pressure to guarantee an uniform application of spray liquid over the field. A spray analysis tool or patternator measurement may be used to properly assess the volumetric distribution of static spray. According to the findings, the cone nozzle works best for concentrated spraying while the flat fan nozzle is ideal for wide spraying. The cone nozzle produced a spray that was uniform and had the lowest coefficient of variation at all pressures and heights tested. Using this model, for the cone nozzle, best spray volumetric distribution and the lowest coefficient of variation may be achieved as long as the nozzle pressure is 8 kg/cm2 at 54.46° and the height is 600mm. We employed a flat fan nozzle at a 62.24° nozzle angle, 600 mm height, and a pressure of 6 kg/cm2 to get the optimum spray volumetric distribution and the lowest coefficient of variation. According to this study, cone and flat fan nozzles may aid increase spray dispersion and the choice of nozzle for certain crops during drone spraying.','-','Kailashkumar B., S.S. Sivakumar, J. John Gunasekar, V. Alex Albert and R. Ravikumar (2023). Evaluation of Cone and Flat Fan Nozzle used for Agricultural Drone Spraying and its Performance Assessment. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 15(1): 268-274.'),(5972,'148','A Study on Area-Production-Productivity of Minor Millets in India','Sangappa, D. Rafi and K. Srinivasa Babu','A-Study-on-Area-Production-Productivity-of-Minor-Millets-in-India-D.-Rafi-46.pdf','',1,'India produces about 11% cereals of the world and ranks third in production after China and U.S.A. Due to technological advancements, the output and productivity of other significant crops like minor millets have been supplanted with those of dominant crops like paddy, wheat, and maize. Minor millets are susceptible to frost and can grow at warm environment with temperatures between 20-35 degrees Celsius. Millets may be cultivated with less rainfall since they are crops that are fed by the rain. Major millets require 450 mm of rainfall whereas small millets only need 350 mm. Area, production, and productivity data from 1950-2022 for small millets were collected for the present research from Indiastat.com. Compound Annual Growth Rate analysis was performed for drawing the conclusions from the data set. Using a time series data set of small millets and linear functions, the exponential CAGR was estimated. The major challenge in the present study is availability of data regarding small millets as it required the credentials of Indiastat.com. In India the growth rates of area, and production of minor millets were found negative and a similar picture of the growth rate in the production was also noticed. On the contrary, the growth rate of minor millets\' productivity was found positive in India.','Minor Millets, Area-production-productivity, Nutritional, Temperature','Due to increased cultivation of cereal crops in India the cultivation of minor millets has been declining over the past five decades. Eastern regions of India, particularly Manipur, Meghalaya, and Nagaland, consume more minor millets as they are more nutrient-richer and gluten free compared to cereals. Minor millets are susceptible to frost and can grow at warm environment with temperatures between 20-35 degrees Celsius. Millets may be cultivated with less rainfall since they are crops that are fed by the rain. Major millets require 450 mm of rainfall whereas small millets only need 350 mm. For this study, data covering a total of 72 years, from 1950 to 2022, were gathered on the area, production, and productivity of minor millets. The productivity of small millets has increased even the area under cultivation and the production have declined. Due to the expansion of the cultivation of cereals, pulses, and cash crops, the overall time series data of minor millets revealed that the cultivation area has been decreasing by 3.30 percent annually. The transfer of the cultivation area for other crops has resulted in a 2.20 percent annual drop in the yield of small millets. Minor millets\' output has increased recently due to the availability of high-yielding varieties, pest and disease resistant varieties, and improved cultivation techniques, rising by 1.05 percent annually. In India the growth rates of area, production, and productivity of minor millets were found negative. A similar picture of the growth rate in the production of minor millets was seen almost all over India. On the contrary, the growth rate of minor millets\' productivity was found positive in India.','-','Sangappa, D. Rafi and K. Srinivasa Babu (2023). A Study on Area-Production-Productivity of Minor Millets in India. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 15(1): 275-280.'),(5973,'148','Horticultural Crop Processing Industry: Potential and Prospects Madhya Pradesh','Vijay Agrawal, Alok Dhar Dubey and Sanjeev Verma','Horticultural-Crop-Processing-Industry-Potential-and-Prospects-Madhya-Pradesh-Alok-Dhar-Dubey-47.pdf','',1,'This paper analyses the potential and prospects of the horticulture crop processing industry in Madhya Pradesh. Food processing is one of the most effective solutions to reduce the wastage of fruits and vegetables. In India, the processing of fruits and vegetables is extremely low and is below 2.2%. Value addition to the raw produce in India is as low as 7%, in comparison to China (23%), the Philippines (45%) and the UK (88%). It is estimated that a 1% growth in food processing has the potential to generate additional direct employment for about five lakh individuals, and indirect employment for about 15 lakh individuals. Thus, the processing industry holds tremendous potential not only for contributing to the country’s Gross Domestic Product (GDP) but also for generating employment in rural areas and business opportunities for entrepreneurs. Madhya Pradesh is the 3rd largest producer of vegetables and 7th largest producer of fruits in India with a total production of 317.39 lakh metric tons with 50 to 87% surplus availability of horticultural produce, which can directly be utilized for food processing. The paper would also assess why it is a favourable destination for food processing units and the production of value-added products. This assessment would be done based on factors such as the area under horticulture, surplus production, price realisation trends etc. The paper also made suggestions to achieve the future progress of this sector in Madhya Pradesh.','Horticulture sector, food processing, value-added products, farmer income, food industry','The study establishes it clearly that there is lot of potentials of processing of horticultural crops in Madhya Pradesh. Despite of surplus production in the state, the Major problems lie with the lack of post-harvest structures, cold storages, non-availability of processing varieties, lack of knowledge of technical know-how about processing and lack of marketing and branding. Hence, the government should focus more on developing basic infrastructures like road, cold chain facility, transportation so that private player or entrepreneurs may come forward to invest in this sector. In this context, it is also necessary that research and development must provide an efficient alternative to entrepreneurs for processing of commodity along with quality, income and export opportunities. ','-','Vijay Agrawal, Alok Dhar Dubey and Sanjeev Verma (2023). Horticultural Crop Processing Industry: Potential and Prospects Madhya Pradesh. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 15(1): 281-285.'),(5974,'148','Efficacy of different Botanicals against Blue Butterfly, Lempides boeticus in Pigeonpea','G.D. Hadiya, C.B. Damor and R.G. Machhar','Efficacy-of-different-Botanicals-against-Blue-Butterfly,-Lempides-boeticus-in-Pigeonpea-GD-Hadiya-48.pdf','',1,'A field experiment was conducted at Agricultural Research Station, Anand Agricultural University, Derol, Gujarat, India during kharif, 2018-19, 2019-20 and 2020-21, to study efficacy of different botanicals against Blue butterfly, Lempides boeticus in pigeonpea. Ten treatments including untreated control were evaluated for the management of L. boeticus. The botanicals neem seed kernel extract 5 per cent, neem leaf extract 10 per cent, neem oil 0.5 per cent, custard apple leaf extract 10 per cent, custard apple seed extract 5 per cent, garlic extract 5 per cent, tobacco decoction 2 per cent, eucalyptus leaf extract 10 per cent, azadirachtin 0.15 EC 0.0006 per cent were applied at initiation of pest and subsequent two sprays were applied at ten days interval. Among all the different botanicals, larval population of L. boeticus was found significantly lower in the plot treated with azadirachtin 0.15 EC @ 0.0006 per cent (0.34 larva/plant) followed by neem oil 0.5 per cent (0.45 larva/plant). ','Blue butterfly, Botanicals, Pigeonpea, Lempides boeticus, Azadirachtin','From the above result of the three years of field experiments, it can be concluded that azadirachtin 0.15 EC 0.0006 per cent most effective for the management blue butterfly, L. boeticus in pigeonpea.','-','G.D. Hadiya, C.B. Damor and R.G. Machhar (2023). Efficacy of different Botanicals against Blue Butterfly, Lempides boeticus in Pigeonpea. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 15(1): 286-288.'),(5975,'107','Estimates of Variability, Character Association and Path Analysis among Components of Yield in Foxtail Millet (Setaria italica)','P. Jhansi Rani, C.V. Sameer Kumar and Sooganna','215 Estimates of Variability, Character Association and Path Analysis among Components of Yield in Foxtail Millet _Setaria italica_ P. Jhansi Rani-215.pdf','',1,'The present study was aimed to realize the magnitude of variability and character association studies of yield parameters among advanced lines developed through crossing between inbred lines of diverse origin to obtain best performing new varieties to replace existing old varieties in order to enhance area under millet cultivation which provides national nutritional security. The present investigation was carried out to study the variability, heritability, genetic advance as per cent of mean, character association and path coefficient analysis among seventeen advanced lines. The data were recorded on yield parameters like days to 50% flowering, plant height (cm), days to maturity, number of productive tillers per plant, grain yield (kg/ha) and fodder yield (kg/ha). High heritability coupled with high genetic advance as percent of mean was observed for number of productive tillers and grain yield. Correlation study indicated that fodder yield, number of productive tillers and days to maturity had significant positive association with grain yield. The path analysis indicated that fodder yield and days to 50% flowering had positive direct effects on grain yield. Hence, selection may be exercised on these traits to improve grain yield.','Variability, Character association, Direct effects, Foxtail millet','The results from the above study revealed that the component characters number of productive tillers per plant, fodder yield and days to maturity can be taken as selection parameters for yield improvement in foxtail millet. These traits have shown high GCV, PCV, high heritability coupled with high genetic advance and has shown positive association with grain yield as per correlation analysis. The path analysis revealed that these traits contribute to grain yield immensely both directly and indirectly through other related traits.','-','P. Jhansi Rani, C.V. Sameer Kumar and Sooganna (2021). Estimates of Variability, Character Association and Path Analysis among Components of Yield in Foxtail Millet (Setaria italica). Biological Forum – An International Journal, 13(4): 1323-1328.'),(5976,'147','Post-Harvest Management in Onion: Deserve Concern','Poonam, Manisha Verma, Raja Ram Bunker and Subhita Kumawat','Post-Harvest-Management-in-Onion-Deserve-Concern-Poonam-106.pdf','',1,'Onion (Allium cepa L.) is one of the oldest known bulb plants and is widely used worldwide. It is one of the best-selling vegetable plants in India and is thought to have originated in Central Asia. It is known for its unique spicy taste and is an important part of many traditional dishes. Onions dominate the top of the kitchen. Postharvest losses are caused by improper postharvest handling procedures for crops, including inappropriate harvesting methods, sorting, curing, packaging, and inadequate storage facilities. Despite recent advances in production technology, post-harvest losses continue to be a major problem due to a lack of scientific knowledge. As a review conclusion, an effort was put forth in this paper to gather information about the essential components of harvesting, healing, sorting and storage of onions.','Post harvest management, curing, grader, peeler and storage','Along with the increase in production, the post-harvest management of onion and garlic is the need of the hour to fulfill the growing demand. We can save our produce from wastage by adopting proper management practices.','-','Poonam, Manisha Verma, Raja Ram Bunker and Subhita Kumawat (2022). Post-Harvest Management in Onion: Deserve Concern. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 14(4a): 608-612.'),(5977,'148','Effect of different Natural Farming Practices on NPK and Chlorophyll Content of Cowpea (Vigna unguiculata L.) under Sub humid Southern plains of Rajasthan','Pinky Yadav, S.K. Sharma, Roshan Choudhary, Gajanand Jat, B. Upadhayay, S.S. Sisodia and Sonal Athnere ','Effect-of-different-Natural-Farming-Practices-on-NPK-and-Chlorophyll-Content-of-Cowpea-_Vigna-unguiculata-L._-under-Sub-humid-Southern-plains-of-Rajasthan-Pinky Yadav-49.pdf','',1,'With growing environmental concerns and demand for safe healthy food, the sole dependence on chemical input-based agriculture is being replaced by organic and natural farming practices. A field experiment was conducted in 2020 and 2021 at the Organic Farming Unit (Agronomy), Rajasthan College of Agriculture, MPUAT, Udaipur. The soil at the test location was clay loam in texture, with accessible nitrogen, phosphorus, and potassium concentrations of 255.30, 25.83 and 305.41 kg ha-1, respectively in the top 30 cm of soil with a pH of 7.9. The experiment comprised 27 treatment combinations assigned in a randomised block design with three replications. The experiment comprised of 9 treatments of different practices viz., treatment T1-(Control), treatment T2-(Complete NF i.e. 1. Beejamrit + Ghanjeevamrit + Jeevamrit; 2. Crop residue mulching; 3. Intercropping; 4. Whapasa), treatment T3-NF without 1 (Beejamrit + Ghanjeevamrit + Jeevamrit), treatment T4-NF without 2 (Crop residue mulching), treatment T5-NF without 3 (Intercropping), treatment T6-NF without 4 (Whapasa), treatment T7-(AI-NPOF package), treatment T8-[Integrated Crop Management (50 % nutrient application through organic manures and 50% nutrient application through inorganic sources with the use of Neemaster, Agniaster for pest management) and treatment T9-[Integrated Crop Management (50 % nutrient application through organic manures and 50% nutrient application through inorganic sources with an application of need-based pesticides for pest management)].\r\nResults of two-year experimentation revealed that maximum chlorophyll content at 30 and 45 DAS and NPK content in seed and haulm in cowpea was observed with T9 [Integrated Crop Management (50 % nutrient application through organic manures and 50% nutrient application through inorganic sources with the application of need-based pesticides for pest management)] which was significantly higher than the rest of the treatments, However, the effect of T9 treatment was statistically equivalent to treatment T8 [Integrated Crop Management (50 % nutrient application through organic manures and 50% nutrient application through inorganic sources with use of Neemaster, Agniaster, Brahmaster and Dashparni ark for pest management)] and treatment T7 (AI-NPOF package).\r\n','Cowpea, chlorophyll content, natural farming, Integrated, content','Based on the two years of investigation, it is inferred that T9 (Integrated Crop Management with chemical pesticide) the best treatment for enhancing the NPK and chlorophyll content of cowpea. Hence, the combined application of organic and inorganic fertilizers in equal proportion to supply the recommended level of nitrogen not only increased the chlorophyll content of crops but also enhanced the nutrients availability in soil and their content in crops.','-','Pinky Yadav, S.K. Sharma, Roshan Choudhary, Gajanand Jat, B. Upadhayay, S.S. Sisodia and Sonal Athnere (2023). Effect of different Natural Farming Practices on NPK and Chlorophyll Content of Cowpea (Vigna unguiculata L.) under Sub humid Southern plains of Rajasthan. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 15(1): 289-293.'),(5978,'148','Influence of Media, VAM (Vesicular Arbuscular Mycorrhizae) and Supplementary Nutrients on Growth of Khasi Mandarin Seedlings (Citrus reticulata Blanco)','Tumula Rushi Kumar, N. Devachandra, P.K. Nimbolkar, A.S. Mailappa, Arwankie Shadap, N.T. Chanu and L. Wangchu\r\n','Influence-of-Media,-VAM-_Vesicular-Arbuscular-Mycorrhizae_-and-Supplementary-Nutrients-on-Growth-of-Khasi-Mandarin-Seedlings-_Citrus-reticulata-Blanco_-Tumula Rushi Kumar-50.pdf','',1,'Khasi mandarin is commercially the most important citrus fruit in North Eastern Region of India. While significance of vegetative propagation had been established; its adoption by the nurserymen and preference by growers in this region is limited. Still, they are continuing plantation of seedlings. Prevalence of nucellar seedlings in Khasi Mandarin can be effectively explored in this aspect. Nucellar seedlings perform consistently and reproduce similarly to their mothers. Enhancing the growth of seedlings becomes essential in Khasi mandarin. The present investigation was carried out at Fruit nursery, Department of Fruit Science, College of Horticulture and Forestry, Pasighat during 2021-22 to study the Influence of media, VAM (Vesicular Arbuscular Mycorrhizae) and supplementary nutrients on growth of Khasi Mandarin seedlings (Citrus reticulata Blanco) in the nursery. The experiment was planned in two factorial CRD and replicated thrice, consisted of 12 treatments with different potting media, VAM and supplementary nutrients, and their effect was studied after transplanting to polybags till one-year of age. The results indicated that, seedlings were found to better with respect to vegetative growth parameter viz. plant height, number of leaves, stem diameter and physiological growth parameter like fresh and dry weight of leaves, stem and shoot; length of the longest root, number of primary roots, root volume. Biochemical parameters like chlorophyll ‘a’, ‘b’ and total chlorophyll; leaf carbohydrate and leaf protein. The medium combination of (M2) soil + vermicompost (2:1) with (V3)VAM (Glomus mosseae) @ 5gm and NPK 19:19:19 @ 1% had given significant results among different combination in 12 months old seedlings. This would ensure raising of seedlings more productively in shorter cycle of nursery production.','Khasi Mandarin, Media, VAM, Nucellar seedlings','The study revealed that media (M2) of soil + vermicompost (2:1) with VAM (V3) of Glomus mosseae and NPK 1 % 19:19:19 (Pramukh) spraying are more preferable for reducing the nursery growth period of seedlings. Therefore, farmers or nursery man who are interested in mass multiplication Khasi mandarin through seedlings are advised to use these combination treatments (Citrus reticulata Blanco).','-','Tumula Rushi Kumar, N. Devachandra, P.K. Nimbolkar, A.S. Mailappa, Arwankie Shadap, N.T. Chanu and L. Wangchu (2023). Influence of Media, VAM (Vesicular Arbuscular Mycorrhizae) and Supplementary Nutrients on Growth of Khasi Mandarin Seedlings (Citrus reticulata Blanco). Biological Forum – An International Journal, 15(1): 294-301.'),(5979,'148','Standardization of Rootstock for Almond Propagation under Sub Tropical conditions','Navroop Kaur and Amarjeet Kaur','Standardization-of-Rootstock-for-Almond-Propagation-under-Sub-Tropical-conditions-Amarjeet Kaur-51.pdf','',1,'Recently, due to an increase in price of various commodities, almond cultivation has become a very profitable culture. This has changed the scenario of not only the productive sector, but also for breeders who have to face the challenges for satisfaction of the increased demands of commercial sector. There is a great need to produce the superior planting material. For successful vegetative propagation and trait improvement grafting is a common practice in horticultural plants. Taxonomic proximity between the root stock and scion acts as a general necessary condition for successful grafting and long survival of grafted plants. A close relationship between rootstock and scion is essential for the success of a grafting operation. The rootstock/scion compatibility is the most essential factor for their better performance and longevity in grafted plants. Graft incompatibility occurs due to graft type, unfavorable physiological responses across the graft union, transmission of virus and anatomical deformities of vascular tissue at the graft union. Hence an appropriate grafting method through a suitable rootstock is a prerequisite for successful grafting operation. The research study investigated different seed rootstocks (Kala Amritsari, Kabal Green Gage and Sharbati) and their reactions on almond cv. California Paper Shell through tongue and wedge grafting and their effect on success and survival of the grafts along with their vegetative growth. The experiment was carried out in Randomized Block Design with factorial arrangement in three replications in which the original factor of scion cultivar and sub factor of rootstock type was applied. The obtained results indicate that among propagation methods, tongue grafting was found to be superior to wedge grafting, whereas, among rootstocks Sharbati was superior to Kala Amritsar and Kabal Green Gage for days to bud break, graft success, survival, plant height, leaf production, leaf area, stock and scion girth. The trend of this study is the provision of the opportunity for further research in the productive year of the almond cultivation under sub tropical conditions.','Girth, Grafting, Propagation, Rootstock, Sharbati, Sprouting, Success','The outcome of the present research indicated that the rootstocks used and propagation methods had significantly influenced the nursery plant growth performance of almond cultivar California Paper Shell on Sharbati rootstock. It proved to be an outstanding among other rootstocks and propagation methods under the agro-climatic conditions of Amritsar in terms of grafting success and vegetative growth of the grafts so formed. Facilitation of superior planting material availability on commercial basis will help in boosting the production of almond plants on a large scale. ','-','Navroop Kaur and Amarjeet Kaur (2023). Standardization of Rootstock for Almond Propagation under Sub Tropical Conditions. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 15(1): 302-307.'),(5980,'148','Indian Agriculture with Special Reference to Jammu and Kashmir- An Overview','Manpreet Kour, B.C. Sharma, Harsimran Singh Bindra, Awdeep Singh and Prabjeet Singh','Indian-Agriculture-with-Special-Reference-to-Jammu-and-Kashmir--An-Overview-Manpreet-Kour-52.pdf','',1,'At present Indian agriculture is existing on fragmented land holdings with majority of small and marginal farmers. To cater the need of growing population without dwindling natural resources. It is utmost significant to maintain the equilibrium among production of cereals, pulses and oilseeds. To combat the declining productivity, degrading environment under climatic change earlier reports has been presented that highlights to adopt holistic approach through judicial use of resources, establishment of tool like micro-irrigation techniques, promotion of water harvesting structures resources, standardization and adoption of location specific integrated crop management modules, organic and natural farming for agricultural sustainability. However, a collective outline of agriculture practicing tools with respect to challenges faced by Jammu and Kashmir itself has been reported rarely. Thus, in lieu to the discuss and study the current challenges in the agriculture practices of Jammu and Kashmir, a descriptive review is presented to study and deliver the suggestions as remedial. Also, the current review contributes to researchers depending on the scenarios of different resource availability, the further research programmes can be generated that have an impact on farmers community. Besides planners can consider the current review towards further projections, development and decision making purposes.','Climate change, Current agriculture, Natural farming, Neem coated urea, Rice, Wheat, Maize',' Looking at the present context of agriculture with has been out leading with marginal farmers working on fragmented land holdings unable to satisfied the huge gap between deficit and requirement. To sustain continuous growth and interest of farmers in agricultural profession there is a need to create a general awareness and capacity building in farmers by switching to sustainable and remunerative practices viz., INM, Micro –irrigation, IPM, Promoting organic and natural farming besides devising stable MSPs and framing policies to boost their production and restructuring infrastructure.','-','Manpreet Kour, B.C. Sharma, Harsimran Singh Bindra, Awdeep Singh and Prabjeet Singh (2023). Indian Agriculture with Special Reference to Jammu and Kashmir- An Overview. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 15(1): 308-314.'),(5981,'148','Effect of Organic Manures and Biofertilizers on Seed Quality of Radish (Raphanus sativus L.) under Temperate conditions of Kashmir','Iqtab Mushtaq Wani, Sumati Narayan, M. Mudasir Magray, F.A. Khan, S.A. Mir, Iftisam Yaseen and Afiya Khurshid ','Effect-of-Organic-Manures-and-Biofertilizers-on-Seed-Quality-of-Radish-(Raphanus-sativus-L.)--under-Temperate-Conditions-of-Kashmir-Iqtab-Mushtaq-Wani-53.pdf','',1,'Two field experiments were conducted at SKUAST- K, Shalimar during 2018-19 and 2019-2020 to evaluate the effect of organic manures and biofertilizers on test weight and germination potential of radish seeds produced from stecklings. The experiment was laid out in RCBD with ten different treatment combinations of FYM, vermicompost, vermiwash and biofertilizers with three replications. Plots without any fertilizer input were taken as control. Results indicated that all the treatment showed better performance over control. However, T8 (8 t ha-1 vermicompost + bio fertilizers @ 5kg ha-1) recorded maximum test weight (13.71g), percent seed germination (94.51), seedling length (20.74cm), seedling fresh weight (0.285g), seedling dry weight (10.94mg), seedling vigour index –I (1961.4) and seedling vigour index-II (1.035). As such use of organic fertilizers and biofertilizers particularly vermicompost @ 8t.ha-1 + biofertilizers @ 5kg.ha-1 may be practiced for quality seed production of radish using root to seed method. The seeds developed under conventional farming are generally high fertilizer responsive hence lack the qualiy traits that are required for sustaining crop yields irrespective of the changing climatic patterns. The current study has been taken under investigation as the organic seed production could help out in infusing the desired quality traits in seed.','Radish, bio-fertilizers, vermicompost, 1000 seed weight, seedling vigour','Based on the aforementioned findings, it can be said that application of Vermicompost @8 t ha1 + Biofertilizers (Azotobacter + PSB+KSB) @ 5kg ha-1 and Vermicompost @4 t ha1 + FYM @10 t ha¬-1 + Biofertilizers (Azotobacter + PSB + KSB) @ 5kg ha-1 was significantly effective in improving the radish seed quality under temperate conditions of Kashmir.','-','Iqtab Mushtaq Wani, Sumati Narayan, M. Mudasir Magray, F.A. Khan, S.A. Mir, Iftisam Yaseen and Afiya Khurshid (2023). Effect of Organic Manures and Biofertilizers on Seed Quality of Radish (Raphanus sativus L.) under Temperate conditions of Kashmir. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 15(1): 315-319.'),(5982,'148','Effect of Priming on Seed Quality Parameters and Yield of Sorghum (Sorghum bicolor (L.) Moench)\r\n','V. Swarnalatha, K. Parimala, K. Prabhavathi and T. Pradeep','Effect-of-Priming-on-Seed-Quality-Parameters-and-Yield-of-Sorghum-V.-Swarnalatha-107.pdf','',4,'Physical constraints in sorghum cultivation are frequently beyond the control of resource-poor farmers in rainfed farming systems. Seed priming (soaking seed in water) on the farm has been proposed as a solution to this problem. A number of crops\' seeds have benefited from presoaking or priming in terms of better germination, seedling establishment, and in some cases, stimulation of vegetative growth and therefore crop production. The field and lab experiments were conducted at Seed Research and Technology Centre, Hyderabad, to study the effects of priming with distilled water (H2O), Potassium dihydrogen phosphate (KH2PO4) Potassium Nitrate (KNO3), potassium chloride (KCl), sodium chloride (NaCl), and Pseudomonas fluorescens on plant stand and yield. In lab studies germination rate, speed of germination, shoot length, root length, seedling fresh weight, seedling dry weight, seed vigor index I and seed vigor index II were measured, while in field studies yield and yield parameters were recorded. Different priming treatments alleviated to varying degrees of germination enhancement and KNO3 was the most effective treatment followed by KH2PO4 in both lab and field studies. It was determined from the findings that fresh seed lot of CSV 29 variety with priming treatment of hydration with KNO3@2% for 6 h proved better on the majority of seed quality and seed yield parameters. Crop seeds can germinate healthily by using the right priming agents and techniques in future research and applications even under adverse soil and weather situations.','Sorghum, seed priming, seed quality parameters and seed yield','•Halopriming was an inherent part of treating seeds with 2% KNO3 for six hours, and it greatly influenced the seed emergence and ultimately yield improvement.\r\n•Seed priming, with its ease of use and lack of need for expensive machinery and chemicals, can be utilized as an easy way to deal with issues relating to subpar seed germination and seedling establishment, which supports in sustaining agriculture.\r\n•It\'s important to note that the scope of our research was restricted to a particular grown sorghum type. It will be beneficial to test various varieties under both field and glasshouse trials for this work, keeping in mind that various sorghum types may respond differently to these treatments.\r\n','-','V. Swarnalatha, K. Parimala, K. Prabhavathi and T. Pradeep (2022). Effect of Priming on Seed Quality Parameters and Yield of Sorghum (Sorghum bicolor (L.) Moench). Biological Forum – An International Journal, 14(4a): 613-618.'),(5983,'147','Effect of Priming on Seed Quality Parameters and Yield of Sorghum (Sorghum bicolor (L.) Moench)','V. Swarnalatha, K. Parimala, K. Prabhavathi and T. Pradeep','Effect-of-Priming-on-Seed-Quality-Parameters-and-Yield-of-Sorghum-V.-Swarnalatha-107.pdf','',1,'Physical constraints in sorghum cultivation are frequently beyond the control of resource-poor farmers in rainfed farming systems. Seed priming (soaking seed in water) on the farm has been proposed as a solution to this problem. A number of crops\' seeds have benefited from presoaking or priming in terms of better germination, seedling establishment, and in some cases, stimulation of vegetative growth and therefore crop production. The field and lab experiments were conducted at Seed Research and Technology Centre, Hyderabad, to study the effects of priming with distilled water (H2O), Potassium dihydrogen phosphate (KH2PO4) Potassium Nitrate (KNO3), potassium chloride (KCl), sodium chloride (NaCl), and Pseudomonas fluorescens on plant stand and yield. In lab studies germination rate, speed of germination, shoot length, root length, seedling fresh weight, seedling dry weight, seed vigor index I and seed vigor index II were measured, while in field studies yield and yield parameters were recorded. Different priming treatments alleviated to varying degrees of germination enhancement and KNO3 was the most effective treatment followed by KH2PO4 in both lab and field studies. It was determined from the findings that fresh seed lot of CSV 29 variety with priming treatment of hydration with KNO3@2% for 6 h proved better on the majority of seed quality and seed yield parameters. Crop seeds can germinate healthily by using the right priming agents and techniques in future research and applications even under adverse soil and weather situations.','Sorghum, seed priming, seed quality parameters and seed yield','•Halopriming was an inherent part of treating seeds with 2% KNO3 for six hours, and it greatly influenced the seed emergence and ultimately yield improvement.\r\n•Seed priming, with its ease of use and lack of need for expensive machinery and chemicals, can be utilized as an easy way to deal with issues relating to subpar seed germination and seedling establishment, which supports in sustaining agriculture.\r\n•It\'s important to note that the scope of our research was restricted to a particular grown sorghum type. It will be beneficial to test various varieties under both field and glasshouse trials for this work, keeping in mind that various sorghum types may respond differently to these treatments.\r\n','-','V. Swarnalatha, K. Parimala, K. Prabhavathi and T. Pradeep (2022). Effect of Priming on Seed Quality Parameters and Yield of Sorghum (Sorghum bicolor (L.) Moench). Biological Forum – An International Journal, 14(4a): 613-618.'),(5984,'148','Prevalence and Mode of Transmission of Echinococcosis in Dogs of Kashmir Valley','Hidayatullah Tak, Abas Andrabi, Rukhsana Akhter, Bilal Ahmad Para and Ishfaq Majeed ','Prevalence-and-Mode-of-Transmission-of-Echinococcosis-in-Dogs-of-Kashmir-Valley-Ishfaq-Majeed-54.pdf','',1,'Echinococcus granulosus parasite is known to cause echinococcosis in dogs and hydatid disease or hydatidosis in ruminant animals and accidently in humans. In Kashmir valley dogs have a significant role in transmission of zoonotic parasites, as they often come in close contact with local inhabitants, mostly the Gujjars and Bakarwals. Challenges for Echinococcus granulosus detection and control exist for Kashmir valley as well as for those nations that may be considering hydatid disease in control now or in the future. A variety of methods are available for its diagnosis in humans but a universal gold standard is lacking. However the use of modern techniques of immunodiagnosis has proved to be the best tool for the diagnosis of intestinal echinococcosis at a larger scale and thus resulted in conducting epidemiological studies on large number of individuals. The prevalence of Echinococcosis infection in canines was determined by examining fecal samples collected from different districts of the Valley. For detection of coproantigens of this helminth in dogs an immunodiagnostic test sandwich ELISA was used. A total number of390 dog fecal samples were tested (from December 2021 to October 2022) and out of them 38 samples were found to be positive in sandwich ELISA., the fecal sample collection was made from different collection sites like streets, playgrounds, open fields, parks, etc.','Zoonosis, Sandwich ELISA, Coproantigen, Kashmir','Further research is required to determine the reinfection rate in dogs and the related risk factors of the infection in humans because of the higher prevalence rate and high intensity of infection among dogs in this study. However, this knowledge is crucial for comprehending the E. granulosus transmission dynamics in Kashmir valley, which will help in the successful creation of a successful control programme for this significant zoonosis in this region.','-','Hidayatullah Tak, Abas Andrabi, Rukhsana Akhter, Bilal Ahmad Para and Ishfaq Majeed (2023). Prevalence and Mode of Transmission of Echinococcosis in Dogs of Kashmir Valley. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 15(1): 320-324.'),(5985,'148','Varuna litterata (Fabricius) Lectin (VLL) Purification and Characterization','Prakash Shoba S., Basil Rose, M.R. Venci Candida X., Anitha C. and Punitha A.','Varuna-litterata-_Fabricius_-Lectin-_VLL_-Purification-and-Characterization-Prakash-Shoba-55.pdf','',1,'The carbohydrates are held together by the lectins which are glycoproteins. The apoptosis, involvement of pathogens, identification and tying of carbohydrates were some of the biological processes which happens. The adaptive and innate immune response, adaptive and innate immune response has an important part which is the binding features of universal ancient molecules called Sialic acid-binding lectins (SABLs). In this research, a novel sialic-binding lectin was isolated from the swimming crab Varuna litterata (Fabricius). The obstruction of growth and the abolishment of bacteria and fungi can be promoted by the accuracy of several carbohydrates present in the Lectins. The presence of reagents in biochemical research and the investigation of diagnosis were employed in the research of sialic acids for the treatment of pathogenic diseases and tumors which has attained a lot of interest in sialic acid-specific lectins. The molecular mass of the lectin was identified as 70 kDa on SDS-PAGE. In the current analysis, research was going on to isolate, identify and categorize the lectins from the haemolymph of agglutinin. To hinder agglutination, the potentiality of several glycoproteins and sugars (mono and oligosaccharides) was tested by making use of a hemagglutination inhibition (HAI) assay. After 1-hour, total inhibition of agglutination has been provided by the reciprocal of the lowest dilution of inhibitors which was shown by hemagglutination inhibition titer. The cross-adsorption assays have proceeded to identify whether there is the presence of single or multiple agglutinins in the hemolymph. Along with the desialylated rat erythrocytes, the agglutinin\'s preference for sialic acid is demonstrated by a decrease in hemagglutination activity. Moreover, a sepharose 4B column was connected with bovine submaxillary mucin which was triggered by CNBr to purify the lectin. Hemolymph agglutinin showed greater affinity towards the protease-treated rat erythrocytes and lesser affinity towards neuraminidase-treated rat erythrocytes than the native rat erythrocytes. As the O-acetyl sialic acid, a high preference was given for the inhibition of purified lectin by bovine submaxillary mucin and the non-inhibitory action of de-O-acetylated bovine submaxillary mucin. The results confirm the presence of an O-acetyl sialic acid-specific lectin in the hemolymph of the crab Varuna litterata respectively. The production of anti-tumor and antiviral drugs based on O-acetyl sialic acid-specific lectin in the hemolymph lectin of Varuna litterata may also have a significant utility in therapeutic industry.','Varuna litterata, Sialic Acid, Lectin, Hemagglutination, Antigen, Agglutinin, Hemolymph, Glycoproteins, Rat Erythrocytes, Cross-Adsorption','The hemolymph of the freshwater crab Varuna literatta was purified lectin with a molecular weight of 70 kDa. The hemolymph lectin agglutinated with great avidity, the erythrocytes that exposed N-glycolyl neuraminic acid as the predominant epitope determinant. The isolated lectin was specific for the sugars D-galactose, N-acetyl–D-glucosamine, N-acetyl-Dmannosamine, trehalose and the sialoglycoproteins thyroglobulin, fetuin, and BSM. Sialic acid lectins or antibodies may be used as specialized sensors to examine the function of cell surface sugars during cellular development, differentiation, and malignant transformation. The purified hemolymph lectin against various mammalian erythrocytes was essentially the same as that of the crude serum; the ability of the lectin to agglutinate sialic acid-containing rat erythrocytes with great avidity suggests the possibility of the sialic acid specificity of the lectin. The hemolymph agglutinin was inhibited by N-acetyl sugars such as GluNAc, ManNAc, NeuAc and GalNAc, and sialic acid-containing glycoproteins, Bovine Submaxillary mucine> lactoferrin >holotransferrin = -acid glycoprotein > PSM > fetuin = apotransferrin. The outcome of this research strongly implies that V. literatta possesses a sialic acid-specific lectin in the hemolymph with a significant affinity for the O-acetyl group. This lectin could be employed as a useful diagnostic tool for determining O-acetyl NeuGc on the cell surfaces of microorganisms and tumour cells. The sialic acid specificity of the V. litterata lectin was confirmed by the inability of the lectin to agglutinate desialylated rat erythrocytes and the desialylated and de-O-acetylated BSM to inhibit hemagglutination. The specific binding property of salic acid and their respective functions since the identification of the binding site of the pathogens will be useful in medical and therapeutic research because of the complexity of glycoconjugates on the cell surface of pathogens.','-','Prakash Shoba S., Basil Rose, M.R. Venci Candida X., Anitha C. and Punitha A. (2023). Varuna litterata (Fabricius) Lectin (VLL) Purification and Characterization. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 15(1): 325-335.'),(5986,'148','Field Evaluation of Thiamethoxam against Mustard Aphids in Mustard Crop under North Bihar conditions','B. Sujatha, Sanjay Kumar Sahoo and Gouri Shankar Giri','Field-Evaluation-of-Thiamethoxam-against-Mustard-Aphids-in-Mustard-Crop-under-North-Bihar-conditions-B.-Sujatha-56.pdf','',1,'A field trial was conducted at RPCAU, Pusa, Samastipur, Bihar during the Rabi, 2021-22. Seven treatments were assessed over mustard aphid, Lipaphis erysimi Kaltenbach i.e. thiamethoxam 25% WG at different doses at 12.5, 16.67, 25, 37.5, 50 g a.i. per ha, standard check of dimethoate 30% EC at 200 g a.i. per ha and untreated control (water spray). Among the various doses of thiamethoxam sprayed twice at an interval of 10 days on mustard, Brassica juncea L., treatments T5, T4 and T3 were statistically at par in terms of their effectiveness i.e. 5.95, 6.82 and 8.95 no. of L. erysimi/top 10 cm of terminal shoot. It was followed by T6 (13.29), T2 (15.41), and T1 (18.75). The plots treated with thiamethoxam (50 g a.i. per ha) gave highest yield and B:C ratio and it was in line with the results of thiamethoxam 37.5 and 25 g a.i. per ha. ','Thiamethoxam, mustard, mustard aphids, field bioefficacy','On brief account of the field evaluation carried out, to cope with the rapidly multiplying aphid population, the insecticidal application would reduce the populations drastically over the control plots. Keeping this in view, firstly we have to follow the practices that would reduce the insecticidal application, and the fact that early sowing would reduce mustard aphid population should be kept in mind while planting. Under unavoidable circumstances like late harvesting of the earlier crop, labour unavailability and tillage practices, even though it is sown lately go for recommended rate of insecticidal applications to avoid judicious usage. Although the highest yield, economics, and lowest aphid population were encountered in plots treated by thiamethoxam 25 WG @ 50 g a.i. per ha followed by 37.5 g a.i. per ha and 25 g a.i. per ha. But, keeping in view of the economic and judicious usage of the insecticides, thiamethoxam 25 WG @ 25 g a.i. per ha could be employed in obtaining good seed yields as well as reducing aphid populations. ','-','B. Sujatha, Sanjay Kumar Sahoo and Gouri Shankar Giri (2023). Field Evaluation of Thiamethoxam against Mustard Aphids in Mustard Crop under North Bihar conditions. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 15(1): 336-340.'),(5987,'148','Evaluation of various Botanicals against Predatory Spider Population in Rice, Oryza sativa L. in Kashmir','Ulfat Jan, Mohd Ayoub Mantoo, Amir Hussain Sheir, Summaira Rafiq, Ummaisa Rehman and Moneesa Bashir','Evaluation-of-various-Botanicals-against-Predatory-Spider-Population-in-Rice,-Oryza-sativa-L.-in-Kashmir-Ulfat-Jan-57.pdf','',1,'As agrochemicals in agriculture are posing vast problems like environmental pollution, pesticide resistance, pest resurgence, toxicity hazards, secondary pest out breaks, residues in feeds, food, soil and water, and destruction of biodiversity of natural enemies. With a view these demerits, now-a-days further emphasis is being laid on IPM by means of botanicals. Botanicals have long been touted as an attractive choice to man-made chemical insecticides for pest management. Considering the importance of ecofriendly approaches to manage pests, the experiment was designed to determine relative efficacy of different botanical extracts against predatory spider population. So the study was conducted to determine the comparative bio-efficacy of five botanicals, each with three concentrations and untreated control (check) against predatory spider population on rice at MRCFC Khudwani Anantnag during Kharif 2019. The spider population was counted before application of botanicals and one, three, seven and fifteen days after botanical application. The mean live spider population per 10 hills ranged from 5.33-6.67 before treatment of botanicals and 3.33-6.00, 3.67-5.67, 3.67-6.00, 3.33-6.33 and 4.00-6.00 after treatment of botanicals, and that reduction in spider population was 11.66, 16.07 and 19.19%; 16.07, 18.05 and 22.13%; 13.09, 17.49 and 21.02%; 12.29, 15.03 and 16.66%; 17.20, 20.47 and 24.60%; at 1.0, 2.0, and 3.0 ml/ L of water in comparison to check (8.01%), respectively. The trend of reduction of spider’s population decreased with time from one to fifteen days. ','Botanicals, spiders, rice, Neemazal, reduction, evaluation, yield','The present field investigation was to build up an ecofriendly management of insect pests of rice under irrigated conditions with the help of botanicals, viz., neemazal, eucalyptus oil, camphor oil, lemongrass oil and cedar wood oil at different concentrations. The effect of botanicals on predatory population of spiders revealed that all the treatments were superior to the control for the reduction in spider population in rice. Hence, botanicals can be used in reduction of spider in rice without causing adverse effects on natural enemies and environment in Kashmir. ','-','Ulfat Jan, Mohd Ayoub Mantoo, Amir Hussain Sheir, Summaira Rafiq, Ummaisa Rehman and Moneesa Bashir (2023). Evaluation of various Botanicals against Predatory Spider Population in Rice, Oryza sativa L. in Kashmir. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 15(1): 341-347.'),(5988,'148',' Validation of Microplastics Accumulation on Edible Fruits and Vegetables','Kayalvizhi Rajendran, Ramya Rajendiran, Roshini Peter, Mukil Sukitha Pasupathi, Shahanaz Begum Nazir Ahamed, Parvatham Kalyanasundaram and Rajesh Kannan Velu ','Validation-of-Microplastics-Accumulation-on-Edible-Fruits-and-Vegetables-RAJESH-KANNAN-VELU-58.pdf','',1,'Microplastics, which are omnipresent in the environment, particularly in agroecosystems, are the result of plastic particles that reach sizes between 5 mm and 1 m. This exacerbates the contamination caused by plastic. In this present study, frequent consumption of two variety fruits like Vitis vinifera and Musa paradisiacal as well as vegetables such as Solanum melongena and Solanum tuberosum from a local market in Trichy, Tamil Nadu, India, was collected and analysed for microplastics accumulation. Next, we extracted and determined the the size of the Microplastics (MPs), which ranged from 0.01 mm to 0.002 mm by using stereomicroscope and Scanning Electron Microscope. In FT-IR analysis was confirmed the different types of polymer functional groups like nylon, polypropylene, polystyrene and high-density polyethylene. Our research has highlighted the regularly consuming edible fruits and vegetables having MPs accumulation. In due course, the potential impacts of low range sized microplastics on food safety in edible fruits and vegetables and human health need to be urgently considered.','Microplastics, Fruits, Vegetables, Agroecosystems, Public Health, Toxicology','The preliminary study was investigated the accumulation of MPs in edible fruits like grapes and banana and vegetables like potato and brinjal. This was identified and characterized through various analytical methods like Stereomicroscope, FTIR and SEM. Our findings demonstrates MPs particles 0.002mm upto 0.01mm have identified in edible fruits and vegetables that microplastics have been found in quantities that are frequently consumed by people, raising concerns that they may be transferred to humans through this ingestion. These findings imply the possibility of MPs gaining entry into the food chain and the potential health hazards. It is imperative that governmental organisations and health authorities move rapidly in order to enact and put into practise environmental regulations that will monitor the production, utilisation, and disposal of plastics.','-','Kayalvizhi Rajendran, Ramya Rajendiran, Roshini Peter, Mukil Sukitha Pasupathi, Shahanaz Begum Nazir Ahamed, Parvatham Kalyanasundaram and Rajesh Kannan Velu (2023). Validation of Microplastics Accumulation on Edible Fruits and Vegetables. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 15(1): 348-355.'),(5989,'148','Purchase Pattern of Skin Care Products among Women','Velivelli Vijaya Lakshmi, Varnam Radhika and Geeta Munje','Purchase-Pattern-of-Skin-Care-Products-among-Women-Varnam Radhika-59.pdf','',1,'Now-a-days due to urbanization and globalization urban consumers are more conscious about their skin care. Moreover due to the climate change, people are concerned about protection their exposed parts of skin to UV radiation. Hence consumers are particular about brand and quality of the cosmetic products. So, the present study on purchase pattern of skin care products was conducted in Hyderabad city by using ex post facto research design. Total of 120 women respondents of cosmetic users were selected by using simple random sampling technique. The data was collected by using structured questionnaire and analyzed by using frequencies and percentages and chi square test was used to test the association and comparison of proportions between independent and dependent variables. Results revealed that face powder was the most used skin care product followed by fairness cream, moisturizer and face wash. Majority of the respondents have preferred Ayurvedic, chemical followed by Herbal based ones. Highly significant association was found between the age and brand preference for skin care cosmetic products. International brands for skin care products were more preferred by young adulthood age group while national brands were more preferred by middle age group.','Cosmetics, skin care products, brand preference','Brand was found to be the major factor considered by all women while purchasing. The study reveals that face powder was found to be used most prevalently by all age groups. Anti-aging and toners were found to be preferred by the older age group to enhance their beauty and minimizing the effect of old age. Younger group preferred international branded products. Majority mentioned that skin care products were preferred more as they give glow to the skin. Preferences of brands were varied depending on the type of skin care product used. It implies that no single brand is predominantly used that means brand loyalty for skin care products is not visible in this study. Findings of the study support the theory of reasoned action as the respondents are rational consumers rather than impulsive purchasers. ','-','Velivelli Vijaya Lakshmi, Varnam Radhika and Geeta Munje (2023). Purchase Pattern of Skin Care Products among Women. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 15(1): 356-366.'),(5990,'148','Combining Ability Studies in Bottle Gourd [Lagenaria siceraria (Molina) Standl.] for Yield and its Attributing Traits during February Season','Pushpam Patel, Ramesh Kumar Sharma, Ajay Bhardwaj, Randhir Kumar, Sanjay Sahay, Anand Kumar, Ritu Kumari and Amresh Bahadur Singh ','Combining-Ability-Studies-in-Bottle-Gourd-[Lagenaria-siceraria-_Molina_-Standl.]-for-Yield-and-its-Attributing-Traits-during-February-Season-Pushpam Patel-60.pdf','',1,'The present study was conducted at Vegetable Research Farm, BAU, Sabour, Bhagalpur, with the objective to study the GCA of parents and SCA of hybrids for yield and its attributing traits in bottle gourd. GCA effects of parents and SCA effects of crosses were highly significant for the characters studied. The line × tester analysis was carried out involving 7 lines and 3 testers. Analysis of variance revealed significant difference among the genotypes for the traits under study. The estimates of variance component revealed that variance due to SCA was more pronounced than variance due to GCA for all the characters under study except days to first male flower opening, days to first female flower opening and days to first fruit harvest, indicating the importance of non-additive type of gene action for the expression for those characters. The GCA effect for fruit yield per vine revealed that line BRBG22-1 was the best general combiner. The SCA effect of hybrids for fruit yield per vine revealed that BRBG-23 × Narendra Rashmi and BRBG-65 × Rajendra Chamatkar was the best specific combiner.','General combining ability, specific combining ability, bottle gourd, Line × Tester','The estimates of variance component revealed that variance due to SCA was more pronounced than variance due to GCA for all the characters under study except length of fruit, indicating the importance of non-additive type of gene action for the expression for these characters and heterosis breeding or recurrent selection can be employed for improvement of these characters. The parents BRBG-22-1and BRBG-41-1were the good general combiners for fruit yield per vine. These can be used for identifying superior heterotic combinations. Out of twenty one hybrids, BRBG-23 × Rajendra Chamatkar (0.92), BRBG-41-1 × Narendra Rashmi (1.07) and BRBG-21-2 × Swarna Sneha (1.30) were showed significant and positive SCA effects and were grouped under good specific combiner and these can be subjected to recurrent selection for improvement of genetic stock.','-','Pushpam Patel, Ramesh Kumar Sharma, Ajay Bhardwaj, Randhir Kumar, Sanjay Sahay, Anand Kumar, Ritu Kumari and Amresh Bahadur Singh (2023). Combining Ability Studies in Bottle Gourd [Lagenaria siceraria (Molina) Standl.] for Yield and its Attributing Traits during February Season. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 15(1): 367-372.'),(5991,'148','Effect of Foliar Application of Organic Growth Promoters on Grading and Quality of Potato (Solanum tuberosum L.)','Ashvin S. Gajbhiye, Arun S. Kadam, Dnyaneshwari R. Veer, Pallavi N. Puram and Arjun V. Khote ','Effect-of-Foliar-Application-of-Organic-Growth-Promoters-on-Grading-and-Quality-of-Potato-(Solanum-tuberosum-L.)Ashvin-S-Gajbhiye-61.pdf','',1,'This experiment was investigated in P.G. Laboratory, Department of Horticulture, College of Agriculture, Latur (MH) India, to study the effect of foliar application of organic growth promoters on grading and quality of potato during 2019-20. Total eleven treatments of five organic growth promoters at two concentrations viz., Control (T1), Panchgavya 3% (T2), Panchgavya 5% (T3), Vermiwash 3% (T4), Vermiwash 5% (T5), Cow Urine 3% (T6), Cow Urine 5% (T7), Amritpani 3% (T8), Amritpani 5% (T9), Jeevamrit 3% (T10), Jeevamrit 5% (T11). The preparation of these OGP had a challenge to collect the organic sample and make on time. The maximum A grade tubers yield (4.90 t/ha) was recorded in the treatment T2. Whereas B grade tubers (4.61 t/ha) was recorded in the treatment T3. The T9 produced highest yield (3.34 t/ha) of C grade tubers and the last but not least, the T5 produced maximum yield (2.82 t/ha) of D grade tuber. Regarding the quality highest TSS (5.24°Bx), maximum reducing sugars (0.53 %), maximum total sugars (0.63 %) and maximum starch contains (14.53 %) were recorded in the treatment T3. Thus, superior quality potato tubers with higher grades, the application of above treatments were found beneficial under Marathwada region of Maharashtra State.','Organic growth promoters, Panchgavya, Vermiwash, Cow Urine, Amritpani, Jeevamrit, Potato, Grades and Quality','In nutshell, it can be concluded that, for getting high grading of yield with superior quality of potato tubers, the foliar application of organic growth promoters viz., Panchgavya @ 3% and Panchgavya @ 5% at 15 days of interval to potato crop while it on field was found beneficial. Further, it can also be concluded that Amritpani @ 5% and Vermiwash @ 5% may be consider as alternative sources for supply of nutrients for increasing the grade and quality of potato tubers. These Organic Growth Promoter prepared very cheaply and will also helpful for increases the production of tubers.','-','Ashvin S. Gajbhiye, Arun S. Kadam, Dnyaneshwari R. Veer, Pallavi N. Puram and Arjun V. Khote (2023). Effect of Foliar Application of Organic Growth Promoters on Grading and Quality of Potato (Solanum tuberosum L.). Biological Forum – An International Journal, 15(1): 373-376.'),(5992,'148','A Review on Management of Seed Borne Diseases through Seed Multiplication Strategies','Sabyasachi Patra','A-Review-on-Management-of-Seed-Borne-Diseases-through-Seed-Multiplication-Strategies-Sabyasachi-Patra-62.pdf','',1,'The most of plant diseases are spread through seeds, which is a serious obstacle to obtain high-quality seeds and higher yield. A tiny embryonic plant called a seed is an effective way to spread plant pathogens to new areas and gives them a way to survive from one growing season to the next. One of the most significant biotic constraints on seed production globally is the presence of seed-borne fungi. It is crucial to maintain the initial infection of seed because it serves as a vehicle for the dispersal and survival of plant pathogens. In this connection a review on many seed multiplication strategies for challenging the maintenance of seed borne diseases have been studied which can give proper information to the farmers, seed growers and seed company whose are involved in seed multiplication programme. The major strategies like Selection of disease free field area, source of seed, seed treatment, sowing practices, rouging, isolation requirement, biological control, chemical control, proper harvesting etc. provide a basis for improving seed as an essential part of seed multiplication. The goal of this review is to educate farmers and seed growers with some significant seed pathogens and management strategies for diseases spread through seeds. As a result, seed growers or farmers can obtain maximum seed yield with better quality by using disease free seed in future.','Seed borne disease, Seed source, Isolation, Physical treatment, Biological control, Chemical control','Management of seed borne diseases through seed multiplication strategies like sanitation, condition of soil, tillage operation, sowing practices, irrigation, isolation requirement, fertilizers, rouging, Physical seed treatment, biological control, chemical control etc. are most important for obtaining good quality seed. Therefore, farmers, seed growers and seed companies whose are involved under seed multiplication programme should be aware and followed strictly the whole mentioned strategies for harvesting quality seed with maximum yield','-','Sabyasachi Patra (2023). A Review on Management of Seed Borne Diseases through Seed Multiplication Strategies. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 15(1): 377-382.'),(5993,'148','Investigation on the Temporal and Spatial Distribution of Flower Thrips Population in Nyctanthes arbor-tristis Linn.','Manjunath Kenchannavar, M. Thippaiah, Y.B. Srinivasa and R.R. Rachana','Investigation-on-the-Temporal-and-Spatial-Distribution-of-Flower-Thrips-Population-in-Nyctanthes-arbor-tristis-Linn.-Manjunath-Kenchannavar-63.pdf','',1,'We made a preliminary examination of the flowers of Nyctanthes arbor-tristis, with longevity for about 12 hours, and their association with three species of thrips in terms of understanding their distribution and accumulation patterns. Thrips are among the most common flower feeding insect groups in the world. We compared the time of anthesis with theentry time of the thrips. We also studied the distribution of the three species of thrips across and within flowers of Nyctanthes arbor-tristis. Thrips florum, Thrips hawaiiensis (Thripidae; Terebratia) and one unidentified species (Phlaeothripidae; Tubulifera) were the three species occurring concurrently in the flowers of N. arbortristis. Flower sampling was done at three full-grown trees of N. arbor-tristis located at considerable distance from each other. Observations were recorded on the opening and dropping times of the flowers, and entry time of each species of thrips into the flowers and the density of individual species of thrips in each flower at various stages of flower development Flowers open between 5:10 PM and 6:45 PM the next day [Rs1]. All three species of thrips entered flowers ~1 hour prior to flower opening. The higher thrips density was recorded in freshly opened flowers with 292 thrips occupying 62%of the 180 flowers sampled. Later, both population density and flower occupancy decreased to 34 thrips in 28 flowers 24 hours post anthesis. Population density and flower occupancy were positively correlated. Interestingly, 37% of flowers were unoccupied when the population density of thrips was maximum, indicating that both threshold level of occupancy and threshold level of population density played a role in the distribution of thrips among the flowers. The proportion of empty flowers reveal aggregated distribution of thrips rather than random distribution.','Thrips, Nyctanthes arbour-tristis, Population density, Occupancy, Aggregated distribution','As a highly short duration flower N. arbor-tristis attracts specific flower inhabitants like thrips. Thrips species T. florum dominate in population, density and distribution in flowers utilising maximum resource followed by T. hawaiiensis. It appears that there is a threshold level of density that affects the distribution pattern of thrips. These tendencies appears to give rise to an aggregated distribution pattern among the thrips found to exist in the flowers of N. arbor-tristis. However, an attempt has been made in this work to theorise the different distribution patterns exhibited by thrips species with respect to the anthesis and duration of flower remain open. This can open up new directions in our understanding of thrips behaviour in inhabiting type of flowers and their distribution.','-','Manjunath Kenchannavar, M. Thippaiah, Y.B. Srinivasa and R.R. Rachana (2023). Investigation on the Temporal and Spatial Distribution of Flower Thrips Population in Nyctanthes arbor-tristis Linn.. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 15(1): 383-387.'),(5994,'148','Gross Morphological Studies on Liver of Barbari Goat','Nimgaonkar Mayur Sudhirrao, K.N. Singh, Mukesh Kumar, R.K. Joshi and Amit Singh Vishen','Gross-Morphological-Studies-on-Liver-of-Barbari-Goat-Nimgaonkar-Mayur-Sudhirrao-64.pdf','',1,'Current study was conducted on the gross morphology of the liver of 6 Barbari goats of either sex. Barbari goat is also known as “city breed” and have highest milk fat percentage among all the goat breeds. Liver being the largest gland of the body, helps in different metabolic functions of body. To gather sufficient information from the gross anatomic perspective was the moto for the present study. Current study revealed that liver was found to be situated obliquely downward and forward from lumbocostal angle to level of 7th or 8th rib. The colour of liver was reddish to dark brown, having two surfaces and four borders. The average length of liver was found to be 8.12 inches, average width of left, right and caudate lobe was found to be 3.48, 3.47 and 2.47 inches respectively. While thickness of left, right and caudate lobe was 1.65, 1.53, 0.73 inches. The average volume of liver was found to be 294 ml. The gall bladder is attached to the right lobe of liver on visceral surface just above the omasal impression.','Liver, largest gland, Barbari goat, gall bladder, Gross morphology','The liver is the largest gland of the body and is situated in the abdominal cavity obliquely downward and forward extending from lumbocostal angle to level of 7th or 8th rib and having reddish brown colour. It is kept in position by the five ligaments. It has 2 surfaces parietal and visceral, parietal surface is convex and attached to the diaphragm which visceral surface was found to have impressions of different related organs like omasum, abomasum, reticulum, right kidney etc, while liver was having four borders. It was found that liver is having 3 lobes namely left, right and caudate, gall bladder was found attached on the right lobe on visceral surface.','-','Nimgaonkar Mayur Sudhirrao, K.N. Singh, Mukesh Kumar, R.K. Joshi and Amit Singh Vishen (2023). Gross Morphological Studies on Liver of Barbari Goat. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 15(1): 388-391.'),(5995,'147','Mulching: A sustainable solution for soil and water conservation','Sanket Patil, Amol Pawar, Dipti Bisarya, Vinai Kumar, Sarvesh Kumar and Vishvajeet Jadhav','Mulching-A-sustainable-solution-for-soil-and-water-conservation-Sanket-Patil-108.pdf','',1,'The necessity to increase food production while also improving the quality of our environment has prompted a search for materials to reduce wind and water erosion. This study offers a review of research and development related to the application, techniques, and volumes of several forms of mulch-crop residues, chemical soil stabilizers, and feedlot wastes (manure) that are needed to reduce wind erosion. A wind erosion control treatment that can withstand a 38.0 m/s wind measured at 15.2 m is successful. Mulching has become a common technique in modern agriculture. Mulch paper lowers the need of chemical fertilizers and herbicides, as well as weed control and maintaining the temperature of the ground. Over-mulching can generate an anaerobic environment in which fungal infections can grow in plant stems and roots (some are toxic to humans). When mulch is placed too thickly in the fall, rats may find a place to live and begin feeding on plant stems and trunks all winter. In some circumstances, the danger of pests as well as some soil-borne illnesses can be decreased by using plastic mulch. Organic mulches can break down in the soil and enhance the amount of organic matter and microbial activity there. These mulch coverings must be replaced over time since they decompose quickly. They enrich the soil with nutrients, reduce the pH, and are short-lived on the soil\'s surface. This article covers the published research on mulches and considers how they may be used to tackle the problem in agriculture.','Mulching, plastic mulch, water conservation, soil properties, weeds','The demand for horticulture crops has expanded globally because of globalization and rising health consciousness. Soil parameters such as temperature, moisture content, bulk density, aggregate stability, and nutrient availability increased when plastic mulch was used. Because of the altered soil microclimate, the plastic mulch has a favorable impact on plant development and yield. Even though it offers numerous advantages, farmers face challenges such as high startup costs and the removal and disposal of plastic components. To address these restrictions, photo and biodegradable plastic mulches can be utilized efficiently to maintain productivity while also reducing pollution caused by the usage of plastics.','-','Sanket Patil, Amol Pawar, Dipti Bisarya, Vinai Kumar, Sarvesh Kumar and Vishvajeet Jadhav (2022). Mulching: A sustainable solution for soil and water conservation. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 14(4a): 619-623.'),(5996,'148','Studies on Microbiological Quality of Paneer Sold in various Zones of Maharashtra','Ranjan B. Yedatkar, Vasant V. Niras, Anand R. Sarode, Shital S. Deosarkar, Shrikant D. Kalyanka and Chandrapakash D. Khedkar ','Studies-on-Microbiological-Quality-of-Paneer-Sold-in-various-Zones-of-Maharashtra-Shrikant-Shrikant D Kalyankar-65.pdf','',1,'India is a rapidly growing dairy product market, where in paneer market is growing at the rate of 8% with annual consumption of over 20,000 tons of paneer. Paneer has moisture content of 40-60%, protein biological value of 80-86 and protein content of 15-20%, and fat of 16-20% with rich source of minerals like calcium. Under refrigeration condition paneer has a shelf life of 2-3 days thereafter freshness of the product is lost. Therefore the present investigation was planned and executed to ascertain the microbiological quality of Paneer sold in four zones of Maharashtra, viz. Marathwada, Vidarbha, Western Maharashtra and North Maharashtra. Fifteen Paneer samples were procured in each of the three seasons from each of the four zones during 2020-21. Immediately after procurement the samples were aseptically packed, suitably labelled and stored under icepacks and brought to the laboratory for its further analysis. The data on microbiological quality was categorized season-wise. The counts of aerobes, coliforms, Staphylococci, yeast and moulds and Escherichia were estimated. It was observed that the highest counts of the test organisms were observed in all the four zones in the samples collected during February to May and the lowest counts were recorded during October to January. It was observed that the highest average aerobic counts were recorded in North Maharashtra (93.21×105 cfu/g); the highest average coliform counts of 9.7 cfu/g were observed in Western Maharashtra; the staphylococci counts of 97.81 cfu/g and Yeast and mould counts of 188.91 cfu/g were reported in Marathwada. The highest average Escherichia coli counts of 5.44 cfu/g were recorded in Marathwada during Feb-May. The results on microbiological quality of Paneer sold in the four zones of Maharashtra reveals that the microbiological quality of Paneer sold in the state is well within the standards specified by the FSSR, 2011. It is concluded that the awareness campaigns about the hygienic practices implemented by various dairies and the authorities resulted into quantum improvement in the microbiological quality of dairy products like Paneer sold in the State.','Paneer, Microbiology of paneer, FSSAI, Milk','It is concluded that the microbial counts of the target five groups of organisms reported in the Paneer samples procured randomly from twenty two districts under five zones of Maharashtra during three seasons are well within the prescribed limits by the Regulatory Authorities. ','-','Ranjan B. Yedatkar, Vasant V. Niras, Anand R. Sarode, Shital S. Deosarkar, Shrikant D. Kalyanka and Chandrapakash D. Khedkar (2023). Studies on Microbiological Quality of Paneer Sold in various Zones of Maharashtra. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 15(1): 392-395.'),(5997,'148','Plant Cell Elicitation for Secondary Metabolite Production','Jaswant Rai, Pinky Mandal, Ankita Gupta, Ankita Mishra, Mohammad Jibrail and Vijay Kumar','Plant-Cell-Elicitation-for-Secondary-Metabolite-Production-Vijay-Kumar-66.pdf','',1,'Plants, an irresistible resource that is necessary for the survival of all living things. Plants act as a biological chemical factory and repository for the production of variable secondary metabolites which are produced through secondary metabolic pathways using their enzyme complexes. These secondary products have pharmacological activity and used to make medicines and other commercially valuable products like beverages confectionaries, dyes, and taste enhancers, etc. one such medicinal plant that has these values and uses is Hemidesmus indicus. The roots of the Hemidesmus plant are demulcent, alterative, diaphoretic, diuretic, and act as a blood purifier. Hemidesmus indicus has also been used in the medicinal field in ancient times in India. The roots of Hemidesmus indicus are very useful in diagnosing the diseases such as Diabetes and urinary diseases. Apart from Diabetes and urinary disorders, the roots of Hemidesmus indicus are also useful in the treatment of neural as well as cardiac disorders. Nowadays, secondary metabolite are isolated from cultivated plants, because their chemical production is either very difficult process or expensive. The precise mechanism by which elicitation increases secondary metabolism in plants or plant cells in vitro is not fully understood, despite the fact that elicitation does increase secondary metabolism in plants. This opens the door for extensive research to be conducted in the field of biosciences regarding the utilization of plant cells for the production of secondary metabolites.','Elicitation, Secondary Metabolites, Biotic Elicitors, Abiotic Elicitors','Metabolites are substances that are produced by the body (e.g., carbohydrates, lipids, and amino acids), Higher plants can also generate a large range of low-energy compounds. Secondary metabolites are molecular weight molecules. Secondary metabolites are chemicals found in plants that do not play a recognized role in the upkeep of basic life processes in the plants that produce them, they do, however, play a vital part in the relationship of the species, plant, and its surroundings The manufacturing of these Compounds are frequently low in concentration (less than 1% dry weight) and are dependent on the physiological and developmental stage of the animal has a big impact of cultivate. Colchicines, catharanthus alkaloids, belladonna alkaloids steroids such as phytostigminine, pilocarpine, and reserpine, as well as phytostigminine, pilocarpine, and reserpine diosgenin, digoxin, and digitoxin are all types of diosgenin.\r\nAn elicitor is a chemical that, when administered to a live cell system at minute quantities, begins or enhances the manufacture of certain molecules. Elicitation is the process of inducing or enhancing metabolite production by adding tiny quantities of elicitors, in medicinal plants, biotic elicitors have been used to boost secondary metabolite production, Secondary pharmaceutical products such as alkaloids, glycosides, flavonoids, volatile oils, tannins, and resins are produced. Secondary metabolites could be chemical compounds such as polysaccharides elicitor, yeast elicitors, fungal elicitors, and bacterial elicitors. Some physical abiotic elicitors also effects on secondary metabolites such as, UV rays, temperature, salinity exposure and drought stress. \r\nElicitation has high role in applications of biotechnology as well, Plant elicitors are highly effective from biotechnological point of view as it has led to the growth and the production in the new and desired variety of the product of plant. Elicitors had acted as a boon in the field of biotechnology. Elicitation is the most effective techniques for improving the biotechnological production of secondary metabolites. They stimulate any type of plant defense and promoting secondary metabolism to protect the whole cell part. Salts like AgNO3, AlCl3, CaCl2, CdCl2 they can elicit the PSM production and a variety of plant culture such as cell suspensions, hairy roots, and adventitious roots.\r\n','-','Jaswant Rai, Pinky Mandal, Ankita Gupta, Ankita Mishra, Mohammad Jibrail and Vijay Kumar (2023). Plant Cell Elicitation for Secondary Metabolite Production. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 15(1): 396-404.'),(5999,'148','Genetic Variability, Heritability and Genetic Advance for Growth, Yield and Quality Parameters among Orange-Fleshed Sweet Potato [Ipomoea batatas (L.) Lam.] Genotypes','Pallavi Wani, Ambresh and Shantappa T.','Genetic Variability, Heritability and Genetic Advance for Growth, Yield and Quality Parameters among Orange-Fleshed Sweet Potato [Ipomoea batatas _L._ Lam.] Genotypes-Pallavi Wani-67.pdf','',4,'Sweet potato (Ipomoea batatas (L.) Lam.) is the one of most important food crop in the world. In other countries, sweet potato is used as a staple food crop because of it’s easy propagation, rich in nutrient content and high yield under varied climatic conditions. Orange fleshed sweet potato (OFSP), in particular case produces storage roots that are rich in β-carotene, a precursor of Vitamin A. Therefore, OFSP is a promising genotype to address the Vitamin A deficiency needs of women & children and to prevent malnutrition in poverty & tribal areas. The current study was undertaken to estimate the genetic variability, heritability and genetic advance for growth, yield and quality parameters among sixteen genotypes of orange fleshed sweet potato (Ipomoea batatas L. Lam.). In a randomized block design with three replications during rabi 2020-21 at Regional Horticultural Research and Extension centre (RHREC), (Kumbapur Form), Dharwad. Analysis of variance revealed that highly significant differences among the genotypes were observed for all the characters under study. The PCV was higher than GCV for all the characters. High (> 20 %) genotypic coefficient of variation (GCV) and phenotypic coefficient variation (PCV) were observed for number of leaves per vine at 60 and 120 DAP, leaf area at 60, 90 and 120 DAP, mean weight of tuber, yield of tuber per vine, yield of tuber per plot, yield of tuber per hectare. It indicates the existence of broad genetic base, which would be useful for further selection. High heritability (> 60 %) coupled with high genetic advance as per cent over mean (> 20 %) were recorded for the characters such as, vine length, number of leaves per vine, leaf area, inter- nodal length, total number of tubers per vine, girth of tuber, weight of tuber, yield of tuber per vine, yield of tuber per plot, yield of tuber per hectare, starch content, dry matter percentage and beta carotene content indicates the prevalence of additive gene action for these traits. Thus, there is ample scope for improving these characters through direct selection in crop improvement programme.','Orange Fleshed Sweet Potato genotypes, Variability, Heritability, Genotypic coefficient, Phenotypic coefficient of variation','In conclusion, analysis of variance showed the presence of highly significant differences among the tested genotypes for the characters considered which indicates the existence of notable genetic variability among the genotypes for all the characters studied viz., vine length, number of branches per vine, number of leaves per vine, inter nodal length, leaf area, number of tuber per vine, tuber length, tuber girth, tuber weight, total tuber yield per vine, total tuber yield per plot, total yield per hectare, starch content, beta-carotene, and dry matter content indicates the presence of sufficient amount of variability in all the characters under study.','-','Pallavi Wani, Ambresh and Shantappa T. (2023). Genetic Variability, Heritability and Genetic Advance for Growth, Yield and Quality Parameters among Orange-Fleshed Sweet Potato [Ipomoea batatas (L.) Lam.] Genotypes. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 15(1): 405-411.'),(6000,'148','Significant Impact of Ginger Extract on Oxidative stress Markers and Lipid Peroxidation in Diabetic Male Albino Rats','D. Veera Nagendra Kumar, C. Narasimha Ra, U. Srineeth, C. Nageswara Redd, P. Sachidevi and S. Prakash Rao ','Significant-Impact-of-Ginger-Extract-on-Oxidative-stress-Markers-and-Lipid-Peroxidation-in-Diabetic-Male-Albino-Rats-D-Veera-Nagendra-Kumar-68.pdf','',4,'The role of oxidative stress has been reported in various diabetes complications. This study\'s objective was to determine whether ginger supplementation at a dose of 200 mg/kg body weight was beneficial at protecting diabetic rats produced by the drug streptozotocin (STZ). Adult male albino rats weighing 180–200 g were given STZ (40 mg/kg body weight) intraperitoneally to develop diabetes. Glibenclamide (600 g/kg body weight) was the recommended medication. Blood glucose, uric acid, MDA concentration, and Xanthine oxidase (XOD) activity were all greater in diabetic rats\' brain homogenates. They found that the brain tissue had lower amounts of ascorbic acid, glutathione, and GST activity. We found that diabetic rats given oral supplementation of ginger extracts and glibenclamide had lower MDA, uric acid content, XOD activity and higher levels of GST, ascorbic acid, and GSH in the brain as well as higher body weight. Since ancient times, ginger or Zingiber officinale has been used as a herbal remedy to cure a variety of diseases. Recent research has shown ginger\'s promise as a diabetic mellitus therapy. These finding suggest that ginger extract therapy has a protective effect against the progression of diabetes through reducing oxidative stress and brain oxidative stress. ','Ginger, STZ, Diabetes, Blood glucose, XOD, GST, Brain','The results of this investigation suggested that ginger could improve the health and metabolic efficiency of diabetic rats. Because of this, ginger could be used to make natural diabetes treatments. Considering that ginger has antioxidant and anti-diabetic characteristics, it may be clinically useful in the control of human diabetes.','-','D. Veera Nagendra Kumar, C. Narasimha Ra, U. Srineeth, C. Nageswara Redd, P. Sachidevi and S. Prakash Rao (2023). Significant Impact of Ginger Extract on Oxidative stress Markers and Lipid Peroxidation in Diabetic Male Albino Rats. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 15(1): 412-418.'),(6001,'148','Correlation Coefficient Analysis for Yield and Yield Attributing Traits in Sponge Gourd (Luffa cylindrica (L.) Roem.)','Chithra K., Shashikanth Evoor, Allolli T.B., Jagadeesh S.L. and Sarvamangala Cholin','Correlation-Coefficient-Analysis-for-Yield-and-Yield-Attributing-Traits-in-Sponge-Gourd-(Luffa-cylindrica-(L.)-Roem.)-Chithra-K-69.pdf','',4,'The current investigation was undertaken at the experimental plot of Department of Vegetable Science, College of Horticulture, UHS, Bagalkot (Karnataka) during 2020-2021. Fourty sponge gourd genotypes collected from different places were evaluated to know the character association between them. The correlation coefficient analysis measures the mutual relationship between various plant characters and determines the component characters on which selection can be based for improvement in yield. The present study indicated that genotypic correlation co-efficient is higher than the phenotypic correlation co-efficient for all the 17 characters studied. This indicates very little or no influence of environment on genotypes performance and the presence of inherent association between various characters. The trait fruit yield per vine was significantly and positively correlated with vine length, number of branches per vine, fruit length, average fruit weight and number of fruits per vine and sponge yield at both genotypic and phenotypic levels. Therefore, selection based on these characters can be effective for identifying high yielding sponge gourd genotypes.','Sponge gourd, fruit yield, phenotypic and genotypic correlation co-efficient','The present investigation revealed that fruit yield per vine was significantly and positively correlated with vine length, number of branches per vine, fruit length, average fruit weight and number of fruits per vine and sponge yield at both genotypic and phenotypic levels. These traits were considered as important component contributing to fruit yield per plant and the selection primarily based on these characters may result in development of high yielding genotypes.','-','Chithra K., Shashikanth Evoor, Allolli T.B., Jagadeesh S.L. and Sarvamangala Cholin (2023). Correlation Coefficient Analysis for Yield and Yield Attributing Traits in Sponge Gourd (Luffa cylindrica (L.) Roem.). Biological Forum – An International Journal, 15(1): 419-424.'),(6002,'148','Genetic Variability, Heritability and Genetic Advance for Growth, Yield and Quality Parameters among Orange-Fleshed Sweet Potato [Ipomoea batatas (L.) Lam.] Genotypes','Pallavi Wani, Ambresh and Shantappa T.','Genetic Variability, Heritability and Genetic Advance for Growth, Yield and Quality Parameters among Orange-Fleshed Sweet Potato [Ipomoea batatas _L._ Lam.] Genotypes-Pallavi Wani-67.pdf','',1,'Sweet potato (Ipomoea batatas (L.) Lam.) is the one of most important food crop in the world. In other countries, sweet potato is used as a staple food crop because of it’s easy propagation, rich in nutrient content and high yield under varied climatic conditions. Orange fleshed sweet potato (OFSP), in particular case produces storage roots that are rich in β-carotene, a precursor of Vitamin A. Therefore, OFSP is a promising genotype to address the Vitamin A deficiency needs of women & children and to prevent malnutrition in poverty & tribal areas. The current study was undertaken to estimate the genetic variability, heritability and genetic advance for growth, yield and quality parameters among sixteen genotypes of orange fleshed sweet potato (Ipomoea batatas L. Lam.). In a randomized block design with three replications during rabi 2020-21 at Regional Horticultural Research and Extension centre (RHREC), (Kumbapur Form), Dharwad. Analysis of variance revealed that highly significant differences among the genotypes were observed for all the characters under study. The PCV was higher than GCV for all the characters. High (> 20 %) genotypic coefficient of variation (GCV) and phenotypic coefficient variation (PCV) were observed for number of leaves per vine at 60 and 120 DAP, leaf area at 60, 90 and 120 DAP, mean weight of tuber, yield of tuber per vine, yield of tuber per plot, yield of tuber per hectare. It indicates the existence of broad genetic base, which would be useful for further selection. High heritability (> 60 %) coupled with high genetic advance as per cent over mean (> 20 %) were recorded for the characters such as, vine length, number of leaves per vine, leaf area, inter- nodal length, total number of tubers per vine, girth of tuber, weight of tuber, yield of tuber per vine, yield of tuber per plot, yield of tuber per hectare, starch content, dry matter percentage and beta carotene content indicates the prevalence of additive gene action for these traits. Thus, there is ample scope for improving these characters through direct selection in crop improvement programme.','Orange Fleshed Sweet Potato genotypes, Variability, Heritability, Genotypic coefficient, Phenotypic coefficient of variation','In conclusion, analysis of variance showed the presence of highly significant differences among the tested genotypes for the characters considered which indicates the existence of notable genetic variability among the genotypes for all the characters studied viz., vine length, number of branches per vine, number of leaves per vine, inter nodal length, leaf area, number of tuber per vine, tuber length, tuber girth, tuber weight, total tuber yield per vine, total tuber yield per plot, total yield per hectare, starch content, beta-carotene, and dry matter content indicates the presence of sufficient amount of variability in all the characters under study.','-','Pallavi Wani, Ambresh and Shantappa T. (2023). Genetic Variability, Heritability and Genetic Advance for Growth, Yield and Quality Parameters among Orange-Fleshed Sweet Potato [Ipomoea batatas (L.) Lam.] Genotypes. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 15(1): 405-411.'),(6003,'148','Significant Impact of Ginger Extract on Oxidative stress Markers and Lipid Peroxidation in Diabetic Male Albino Rats','D. Veera Nagendra Kumar, C. Narasimha Rao, U. Srineetha, C. Nageswara Reddy, P. Sachidevi and S. Prakash Rao','Significant-Impact-of-Ginger-Extract-on-Oxidative-stress-Markers-and-Lipid-Peroxidation-in-Diabetic-Male-Albino-Rats-D-Veera-Nagendra-Kumar-68.pdf','',1,'The role of oxidative stress has been reported in various diabetes complications. This study\'s objective was to determine whether ginger supplementation at a dose of 200 mg/kg body weight was beneficial at protecting diabetic rats produced by the drug streptozotocin (STZ). Adult male albino rats weighing 180–200 g were given STZ (40 mg/kg body weight) intraperitoneally to develop diabetes. Glibenclamide (600 g/kg body weight) was the recommended medication. Blood glucose, uric acid, MDA concentration, and Xanthine oxidase (XOD) activity were all greater in diabetic rats\' brain homogenates. They found that the brain tissue had lower amounts of ascorbic acid, glutathione, and GST activity. We found that diabetic rats given oral supplementation of ginger extracts and glibenclamide had lower MDA, uric acid content, XOD activity and higher levels of GST, ascorbic acid, and GSH in the brain as well as higher body weight. Since ancient times, ginger or Zingiber officinale has been used as a herbal remedy to cure a variety of diseases. Recent research has shown ginger\'s promise as a diabetic mellitus therapy. These finding suggest that ginger extract therapy has a protective effect against the progression of diabetes through reducing oxidative stress and brain oxidative stress. ','Ginger, STZ, Diabetes, Blood glucose, XOD, GST, Brain','The results of this investigation suggested that ginger could improve the health and metabolic efficiency of diabetic rats. Because of this, ginger could be used to make natural diabetes treatments. Considering that ginger has antioxidant and anti-diabetic characteristics, it may be clinically useful in the control of human diabetes.','-','D. Veera Nagendra Kumar, C. Narasimha Ra, U. Srineeth, C. Nageswara Redd, P. Sachidevi and S. Prakash Rao (2023). Significant Impact of Ginger Extract on Oxidative stress Markers and Lipid Peroxidation in Diabetic Male Albino Rats. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 15(1): 412-418.'),(6004,'148','Correlation Coefficient Analysis for Yield and Yield Attributing Traits in Sponge Gourd (Luffa cylindrica (L.) Roem.)','Chithra K., Shashikanth Evoor, Allolli T.B., Jagadeesh S.L. and Sarvamangala Cholin','Correlation-Coefficient-Analysis-for-Yield-and-Yield-Attributing-Traits-in-Sponge-Gourd-(Luffa-cylindrica-(L.)-Roem.)-Chithra-K-69.pdf','',4,'The current investigation was undertaken at the experimental plot of Department of Vegetable Science, College of Horticulture, UHS, Bagalkot (Karnataka) during 2020-2021. Fourty sponge gourd genotypes collected from different places were evaluated to know the character association between them. The correlation coefficient analysis measures the mutual relationship between various plant characters and determines the component characters on which selection can be based for improvement in yield. The present study indicated that genotypic correlation co-efficient is higher than the phenotypic correlation co-efficient for all the 17 characters studied. This indicates very little or no influence of environment on genotypes performance and the presence of inherent association between various characters. The trait fruit yield per vine was significantly and positively correlated with vine length, number of branches per vine, fruit length, average fruit weight and number of fruits per vine and sponge yield at both genotypic and phenotypic levels. Therefore, selection based on these characters can be effective for identifying high yielding sponge gourd genotypes.','Sponge gourd, fruit yield, phenotypic and genotypic correlation co-efficient','The present investigation revealed that fruit yield per vine was significantly and positively correlated with vine length, number of branches per vine, fruit length, average fruit weight and number of fruits per vine and sponge yield at both genotypic and phenotypic levels. These traits were considered as important component contributing to fruit yield per plant and the selection primarily based on these characters may result in development of high yielding genotypes.','-','Chithra K., Shashikanth Evoor, Allolli T.B., Jagadeesh S.L. and Sarvamangala Cholin (2023). Correlation Coefficient Analysis for Yield and Yield Attributing Traits in Sponge Gourd (Luffa cylindrica (L.) Roem.). Biological Forum – An International Journal, 15(1): 419-424.'),(6005,'148','Morbidity Patterns Among Agro-industrial Workers - A Review','Aman Kumar, A.K. Shrivastava, A.K. Dave, Divakar Chaudhary and Purvi Tiwari','Morbidity-Patterns-Among-Agro-industrial-Workers--A-Review-Divakar Chaudhary-71.pdf','',4,'Agro-industries provides a large numbers of employment in the country and globally also. Now-a-days, these agro-industries almost mechanized, workers still engaged in carrying of objects in awkward postures, repetitive work and also carrying heavy loads and workplace also unhygienic, excessive noise, grain dust in rice/pulses mills and welding smog and glare at welding workshop. So, with the objective of identify morbidity pattern among selected agro-industries, the present work is to review the literature. The selected five major agro-industries are: rice mill, sugar industry, vegetable oil mill, pulses milling industry and agricultural implement/machinery manufacturing industry. After reviewed research paper from the scientific journals, selected agro-industries’ workers are exposed to dust, adverse microclimatic conditions, excessive noise, and insufficient light. Skin, eye and affected and many musculoskeletal disorders found among agro-industrial’s workers. Musculoskeletal disorder (low backache and joint pain), allergic rhinitis, cold, cough, tightness in the chest, difficulty in breathing, periodic cough and phlegm were also observed among workers in rice and pulses milling industry. The study concluded that respiratory morbidity and musculoskeletal disorders are quite high among agro-industrial workers. These conditions can be prevented by health and safety programs in industries, provision of personal protective equipment (PPE) need to be provided and their appropriate usage, and further studies are recommended on the selected topic. ','Agro-industries, workplace, respiratory system, musculoskeletal disorders, allergic rhinitis','The agricultural industry workers are exposed to dust, adverse microclimatic conditions, excessive noise, and insufficient light are among elements that in their work environment. Furthermore, there are various safety and health risks involved with grain handling operations, the two biggest causes of mortality being suffocation and falls. Fires, explosions, electrocutions, and injuries from badly guarded machinery are among the other dangers. Molds, chemical fumigants, and gases associated with deteriorating and fermenting silage can potentially cause exposure to grain dust and other airborne pollutants. In order to solve these problems, (work-related musculoskeletal disorders) WMSDs and other occupational health hazards need to be identified and analyzed. Foundational factors, development factors, psychosocial and physical workplace exposure are very important to be considered in any WMSDs study. In addition it is important to consider both psychosocial and physical workplace exposure in each study. Lacking in prospective and randomize trial study design also have been noticed, particular in selected five industries. This makes it difficult to establish a causal relationship in the investigations. Therefore more research are need to be conducted to provide more information for improving working practices and working environment by providing proper trainings and seminar to the workers about safety at workplace that will reduce work injuries and also improved productivity among workers in agricultural industry.','-','Aman Kumar, A.K. Shrivastava, A.K. Dave, Divakar Chaudhary and Purvi Tiwari (2023). Morbidity Patterns Among Agro-industrial Workers - A Review. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 15(1): 432-438.'),(6006,'148','Correlation Coefficient Analysis for Yield and Yield Attributing Traits in Sponge Gourd (Luffa cylindrica (L.) Roem.)','Chithra K., Shashikanth Evoor, Allolli T.B., Jagadeesh S.L. and Sarvamangala Cholin','Correlation-Coefficient-Analysis-for-Yield-and-Yield-Attributing-Traits-in-Sponge-Gourd-(Luffa-cylindrica-(L.)-Roem.)-Chithra-K-69.pdf','',1,'The current investigation was undertaken at the experimental plot of Department of Vegetable Science, College of Horticulture, UHS, Bagalkot (Karnataka) during 2020-2021. Fourty sponge gourd genotypes collected from different places were evaluated to know the character association between them. The correlation coefficient analysis measures the mutual relationship between various plant characters and determines the component characters on which selection can be based for improvement in yield. The present study indicated that genotypic correlation co-efficient is higher than the phenotypic correlation co-efficient for all the 17 characters studied. This indicates very little or no influence of environment on genotypes performance and the presence of inherent association between various characters. The trait fruit yield per vine was significantly and positively correlated with vine length, number of branches per vine, fruit length, average fruit weight and number of fruits per vine and sponge yield at both genotypic and phenotypic levels. Therefore, selection based on these characters can be effective for identifying high yielding sponge gourd genotypes.','Sponge gourd, fruit yield, phenotypic and genotypic correlation co-efficient','The present investigation revealed that fruit yield per vine was significantly and positively correlated with vine length, number of branches per vine, fruit length, average fruit weight and number of fruits per vine and sponge yield at both genotypic and phenotypic levels. These traits were considered as important component contributing to fruit yield per plant and the selection primarily based on these characters may result in development of high yielding genotypes.','-','Chithra K., Shashikanth Evoor, Allolli T.B., Jagadeesh S.L. and Sarvamangala Cholin (2023). Correlation Coefficient Analysis for Yield and Yield Attributing Traits in Sponge Gourd (Luffa cylindrica (L.) Roem.). Biological Forum – An International Journal, 15(1): 419-424.'),(6007,'143','An Overview of Cancer Research using Bioinformatics','Piyusha Sharma','10 An Overview of Cancer Research using Bioinformatics-Piyusha Sharma 1417.pdf','',1,'A significant amount of biological data and information have been made available to the scientific community by the Human Genome Project. This scenario shows the myriad arenas in which bioinformatics have found utility. The use of bioinformatics in cancer study and treatment is now widespread, and it is evident that scientists, academics and researchers have rapidly and thoroughly explored the bioinformatics tools that are regarded to be essential for the therapies. The advancement of scientific research has been aided by publicly available resources. In order to exploit this new knowledge effectively, the era of big data and genomics has brought up a necessity for collaboration. Here, we provide a description of the web resources for cancer genomics research and assign ratings based on the variety of cancer kinds, sample size, comprehensiveness of the omics data, and user experience. We anticipate that this introduction will raise knowledge of these resources and make it easier for the cancer research community to use them. The resources we assessed include data repositories and analysis tools.','Cancer, Bioinformatics, databases, web tools, genomics, research','The current review collection provides in-depth analyses of the key bioinformatics resources and databases utilised in the inquiry. Recent advances in genomics and related information technologies have accelerated the connection between scientific study and therapeutic application through the creation of a public data repository and analytical tools [29]. Scientific research has advanced thanks to readily accessible resources. The genomics and big data era has created a demand for collaboration and data sharing in order to successfully utilise this new information. Here, we describe the online resources for cancer genomics research and assess them based comprehensiveness of the omics data, and user-friendliness. We believe that by introducing the resources now, the cancer research community will be better aware of them and be able to use them more readily. The resources reviewed include data repositories and analysis tools. Although the field of bioinformatics has demonstrated to have a big impact on the medical industry, it can also be extremely important in fields like agriculture, raising livestock, and even space exploration. This collection of articles emphasises the variety of methods and data sets that are being developed in bioinformatics techniques to address difficult problems like how to prioritise lead compounds with the potential to disrupt the tumor-immune microenvironment and how to more accurately predict clinical outcomes.','-','-'),(6008,'148','Fatty Acid Utilization and Digestive Enzyme Activity during Early Larval Development of Anabas testudineus','Nitish Kumar Chandan, Narottam Prasad Sahu, Gopal Krishna, Rajesh Kumar, S. Nandi, Rakhi Kumari, U.K. Udit, G.M. Siddaiah, B.C. Mohapatra and K.N. Mohanta','Fatty-Acid-Utilization-and-Digestive-Enzyme-Activity-during-Early-Larval-Development-of-Anabas-testudineus-70.pdf','',1,'Anabas testudineus is one of the potential candidates for species diversification in freshwater aquaculture. The present study aimed to evaluate the consumption pattern of endogenous nutritional components available in the form of yolk and digestive enzymes status during early larval development of A. testudineus. The fatty acid profiles viz., saturated fatty acid (SFAs), monounsaturated fatty acid (MUFAs), polyunsaturated fatty acid (PUFA), eicosapentaenoic acid (EPA), docosahexaenoic acid (DHA), arachidonic acid (ARA), n-3/n-6 ratio of eggs and different stages of unfed larvae of Anabas were determined. The digestive enzyme activities were also studied from the day of fertilization to the 25-day post-hatching (DPH). The results indicated that the MUFAs were the predominant fatty acid available in eggs and all the larval stages. The total MUFAs, n-6 contents and DHA: EPA were decreased significantly (p<0.01) from the eggs to 6 days old non-feeding larvae. Total n-3, EPA, DHA, ARA and ARA: EPA were significantly increased (p<0.01) in developing larvae. Surprisingly, EPA and DHA contents were significantly less (p<0.05) during 0 to 2 DPH and increased later on from 3 to 6 DPH. Proteases like trypsin and chymotrypsin activities were significantly (p<0.01) increased from the day of fertilization and they reached a peak on 15 DPH and 12 DPH, respectively and then a decreasing trend was observed up to 21 DPH. However, the pepsin activities were negligible up to 12 DPH and subsequently increased from 15 to 25 DPH. In contrast to pepsin, the lipase activities increased from day of fertilization to 12 DPH, then decreases up to 18 DPH and increased thereafter. Amylase activities were negligible (p<0.05) up to 2 DPH, then increased from 3 DPH to 18 DPH followed by significantly reduced (p<0.05) from 18 to 25 DPH. The culture potential of this species has not realized so far due to the lack of sufficient quantity of quality seed and the non-availability of appropriate larval feed. To produce a good quality larval feed, the basic knowledge on nutrient requirement of larvae is the pre-requisite. Therefore, the present investigation revealed the activities of digestive enzymes and utilization of total fatty acids from the day of fertilization to 25 DPH in the early larval development of Anabas testudineus which are very much essential for developing the quality larval diets for this species.','Anabas, larvae, n-3, n-6, n-3/n-6, EPA, DHA, PUFA, fatty acid, digestive enzyme','The results of present studies provide the basic information on conservation and utilization pattern of different fatty acids during early embryonic and larval development of Anabas larvae. Our findings also provide the information on digestive enzymes that are available during the early larval stages of Anabas. This information also gives an idea of fatty acid requirements during the early embryonic development and the digestive capacity of Anabas larvae at different stages.','-','Nitish Kumar Chandan, Narottam Prasad Sahu, Gopal Krishna, Rajesh Kumar, S. Nandi, Rakhi Kumari, U.K. Udit, G.M. Siddaiah, B.C. Mohapatra and K.N. Mohanta (2023). Fatty Acid Utilization and Digestive Enzyme Activity during Early Larval Development of Anabas testudineus. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 15(1): 425-431.'),(6009,'148','Morbidity Patterns among Agro-industrial Workers - A Review','Aman Kumar, A.K. Shrivastava, A.K. Dave, Divakar Chaudhary and Purvi Tiwari','Morbidity-Patterns-Among-Agro-industrial-Workers--A-Review-Divakar Chaudhary-71.pdf','',1,'Agro-industries provides a large numbers of employment in the country and globally also. Now-a-days, these agro-industries almost mechanized, workers still engaged in carrying of objects in awkward postures, repetitive work and also carrying heavy loads and workplace also unhygienic, excessive noise, grain dust in rice/pulses mills and welding smog and glare at welding workshop. So, with the objective of identify morbidity pattern among selected agro-industries, the present work is to review the literature. The selected five major agro-industries are: rice mill, sugar industry, vegetable oil mill, pulses milling industry and agricultural implement/machinery manufacturing industry. After reviewed research paper from the scientific journals, selected agro-industries’ workers are exposed to dust, adverse microclimatic conditions, excessive noise, and insufficient light. Skin, eye and affected and many musculoskeletal disorders found among agro-industrial’s workers. Musculoskeletal disorder (low backache and joint pain), allergic rhinitis, cold, cough, tightness in the chest, difficulty in breathing, periodic cough and phlegm were also observed among workers in rice and pulses milling industry. The study concluded that respiratory morbidity and musculoskeletal disorders are quite high among agro-industrial workers. These conditions can be prevented by health and safety programs in industries, provision of personal protective equipment (PPE) need to be provided and their appropriate usage, and further studies are recommended on the selected topic. ','Agro-industries, workplace, respiratory system, musculoskeletal disorders, allergic rhinitis','The agricultural industry workers are exposed to dust, adverse microclimatic conditions, excessive noise, and insufficient light are among elements that in their work environment. Furthermore, there are various safety and health risks involved with grain handling operations, the two biggest causes of mortality being suffocation and falls. Fires, explosions, electrocutions, and injuries from badly guarded machinery are among the other dangers. Molds, chemical fumigants, and gases associated with deteriorating and fermenting silage can potentially cause exposure to grain dust and other airborne pollutants. In order to solve these problems, (work-related musculoskeletal disorders) WMSDs and other occupational health hazards need to be identified and analyzed. Foundational factors, development factors, psychosocial and physical workplace exposure are very important to be considered in any WMSDs study. In addition it is important to consider both psychosocial and physical workplace exposure in each study. Lacking in prospective and randomize trial study design also have been noticed, particular in selected five industries. This makes it difficult to establish a causal relationship in the investigations. Therefore more research are need to be conducted to provide more information for improving working practices and working environment by providing proper trainings and seminar to the workers about safety at workplace that will reduce work injuries and also improved productivity among workers in agricultural industry.','-','Aman Kumar, A.K. Shrivastava, A.K. Dave, Divakar Chaudhary and Purvi Tiwari (2023). Morbidity Patterns among Agro-industrial Workers - A Review. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 15(1): 432-438.'),(6010,'148','Development and Characterization of Coated Matrix Multiparticulate System for Milnacipran HCl Sustained Release Imbibing Design of Experiments','Shekhar V. Kokate and Punit R. Rachh','Development-and-Characterization-of-Coated-Matrix-Multiparticulate-System-for-Milnacipran-HCl-Sustained-Release-Imbibing-Design-of-Experiments-Shekhar-V.-Kokate-72.pdf','',1,'Oral drug delivery systems are very well accepted by patients due to self-medication and its stability over other dosage forms. The formulation of sustained release product is always a challenging task and when it is employed from highly water-soluble drugs; its complexity is greatly increased. Nowadays, multi-unit particulate systems (MUPS) are gaining an interest for delivering water soluble drugs at a controlled rate. So, in the present study, coated pellets were designed for water soluble model drug Milnacipran HCl (MIL). The drug was quantified by UV spectrophotometer at 223 λmax. The core matrixpellets were prepared by Extrusion Spheronization techniques using MCC and HPMC K100M. The core pellets were further coated by Eudragit®NE based coating solution using pan coater. The coating was optimized by Box Behenken Design keeping concentration of matrix polymer (HPMCK100M) (X1), concentration of coating solution (Eudragit®NE) (X2) and %weight gain (X3) was selected as independent variables while, Q2 (Y1), Q12 (Y2), Q20 (Y3), and Aspect ratio (Y4) were taken as dependent variables. The developed pellets were characterized for various physicochemical parameters. The drug release from formulation was fitted for various drug release kinetics models. The optimized formulation was subjected for accelerated stability study as per stability guidelines by ICH. The results indicated that selected independent variables had strong impact on response which was confirmed by contour and response surface plot. SEM analysis indicated proximal spherical shape of pellets. Drug release from optimized pellets was fitting to first order release kinetics. Accelerated stability study indicated stable characteristics of optimized formulation. Developed Eudragit®NE coated pellets can be promising technology for delivering highly water-soluble drugs at a controlled rate. ','Milnacipran HCl, Eudragit NE, Coated matrix pellets, Box-behenken Design, Multi-unit particulate systems (MUPS)','From the results, it can be concluded that applied box Behnken design had assisted in development of coated pellets. The role of Eudragit®NE as a coating agent and HPMCK100M as matrixing agent was found to be critical in achieving desired drug release pattern. The process parameters were optimized successfully to yield pellets in near to spherical shape. The concept of use of matrixing hydrophilic polymer in core and additional coating of hydrophobic polymer over core pellet for highly water-soluble drug can be a promising approach to deliver drug in a controlled manner.','-','Shekhar V. Kokate and Punit R. Rachh (2023). Development and Characterization of Coated Matrix Multiparticulate System for Milnacipran HCl Sustained Release Imbibing Design of Experiments. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 15(1): 439-447.'),(6011,'148','Sero-prevalence and Associated Risk Factors of Foot and Mouth Disease in Western Uttar Pradesh','Afroz, Amit Kumar Verma, Amit Kumar, Surendra Upadhyay, Arbind Singh, Rajat Singh and T.K. Sarkar','Sero-prevalence-and-Associated-Risk-Factors-of-Foot-and-Mouth-Disease-in-Western-Uttar-Pradesh-Afroz-73.pdf','',1,'In India, foot-and-mouth disease (FMD) is considered as endemic and causes significant financial losses to the dairy sector. To effectively control the disease, there is requirement of sero-monitoring and risk factors associated with the occurrence of the disease. This cross-sectional study was conducted from January, 2021 to April, 2022 to estimate the seroprevalence of antibodies against r3AB3 non-structural protein of FMDV and the associated risk factors of the disease in western parts of Uttar Pradesh. A total of 130 sera samples from cattle and buffaloes from 06 districts of western Uttar Pradesh were collected and analyzed using indirect r3AB3 non-structural protein-ELISA kit, developed by Directorate on FMD, IVRI, Mukteshwar, India. For random bovine samples examined by the DIVA-ELISA assay, the apparent prevalence of anti-3AB3 antibodies was found to be 35.38%. Using logistic regression analysis, the effects of the many potential risk variables that were thought to influence the likelihood of FMD were calculated. In western Uttar Pradesh, sex was the risk factor that was most closely linked with FMD sero-positivity (OR = 3.4038; p = 0.041). The present study result confirms that FMD virus is circulating in the animals and the disease is highly prevalent in the study area. Hence, the regional concerned bodies should take attention on the implementation of National Animal Disease Control Programme.','Bovines, ELISA, FMD, non structural protein, seropositivity, seroprevalence','In the present study, using 3AB3 DIVA-ELISA, out of 130 sera samples, 46 (35.38%) was found positive indicating the circulation of the FMDV in the study area. On analysis of various risk factors, sex wise seroprevalence of FMD was significantly higher (P<0.05) in females (40.38 percent) than in males. The endemicity of FMD in western Uttar Pradesh has been confirmed and established by current study.','-','Afroz, Amit Kumar Verma, Amit Kumar, Surendra Upadhyay, Arbind Singh, Rajat Singh and T.K. Sarkar (2023). Sero-prevalence and Associated Risk Factors of Foot and Mouth Disease in Western Uttar Pradesh. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 15(1): 448-454.'),(6012,'148','Insights into Biointensive Management of Aphids: A Broad Perspective','Hamendra Singh, Shudhanshu Baliyan, Vishal Singh and Nagendra Kumar ','Insights-into-Biointensive-Management-of-Aphids-A-Broad-Perspective-Hamendra-Singh-74.pdf','',1,'Biointensive integrated pest management is a more dynamic and ecologically informed approach to IPM, it’s a recent concept that aims to alleviate pesticide pressure and brings up new options for bio-control and the use of bio-rational agents, which are less harmful to the environment and affect only targeted insects. To achieve effective, efficient, and reliable pest suppression, the term \"bio-intensive integrated pest management\" (BIPM) is employed, focusing a strong focus on the preservation and strengthening of natural enemies and the application of all appropriate interventions. It encompasses all traditional non-chemical pest control techniques, combined with predators, parasitoids, botanical pesticides and pesticides generated from microbes. For sustainable management of aphids in crop fields, BIPM could play a significant role, the use of entomopathogenic fungi, biorational and botanicals efficiently manage the aphids when their population is at its peak. Certain coccinellids and some parasitoids are also keys to managing aphids efficiently. In comparison to adequate chemical control, a proper blend of cultural, physical, and biological control techniques along with biopesticides might effectively manage the aphid population in field conditions. This review article offers an appropriate management practice plan and lets the reader know about major aphid species found in India and how Biointensive integrated pest management tactics could be employed to manage the aphid population in the field.','Biointensive Management, Aphids, Agricultural crops, Horticultural crops, Integrated pest Management, Biological control','From the above discussion, it may be concluded that there is an increasing interest in developing biological methods of aphid control, driven not only by the desire to reduce reliance on chemical pesticides for environmental and health reasons but also by the continuing expansion of insecticide resistance problems among aphids and the withdrawal of registration approval for an increasing number of insecticide active ingredients. So far, most success has been achieved with the use of hymenopteran parasitoids, but significant successes have also been achieved with the predatory coccinellids. Entomopathogenic fungi similarly have great potential within bio-intensive integrated pest management strategies, although there is no single criterion that guarantees their successful uptake, and difficulties to be overcome not only practical but economic, social, and political. The potential for achieving control of aphid damage by manipulating the physical and biological environment of the crop is enormous. This window of opportunity could be extended by combining biological control with other strategies such as the breeding of crop varieties with partial resistance to the pest and ecological manipulation of agricultural ecosystems to conserve and enhance natural enemy populations.','-','Hamendra Singh, Shudhanshu Baliyan, Vishal Singh and Nagendra Kumar (2023). Insights into Biointensive Management of Aphids: A Broad Perspective. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 15(1): 455-462.'),(6013,'148','Polyhydroxybutyrate Production by various Substrates: Optimization and Application','Anisha, Bidisha Kumari and Pratham Jindal ','75 Polyhydroxybutyrate-Production-by-various-Substrates-Optimization-and-Application-Bidisha-Kumari-75.pdf','',1,'Synthetic plastics because of their non-biodegradability have made huge waste accumulation resulting in hazardous environmental issues that must be controlled soon. There is a crucial need for the substitution of these plastics with biodegradable plastic. Polyhydroxybutyrate (PHB) is one of the emerging biopolymers which can be a perfect and eco-friendly substitution for synthetic plastics. Due to its unique properties, it can be a better alternative to synthetic plastic. Since plastics accumulate millions of tons annually in the environment and cause life-threatening problems, therefore the production of PHB using low-priced substrates is important. The present research has shown that carbon sources were found to be a pivotal factor in the production of PHB. The present article focuses on the production of PHB through various microbes and economical feedstocks, its optimization, and the applications of PHB in different areas. Various challenges have been faced in PHB production such as high production cost, low thermal stability, physical aging problem, low yield, difficulties in extraction, etc. Such serious problems have been tackled wisely. Cheap substrates and microbes are used for PHB production.','Bio-degradable plastic, Poly-3-hydroxy-butyrate, Physicochemical technique, Alkali pre- treatment, Bio-composites','A review of various methods of production of Polyhydroxybutyrate (PHB) has been presented here, which has been mainly focused on its low manufacturing cost and environmental benefits. Several important aspects have been discussed, starting with the concern for energy and environmental sustainability and how PHB a plastic-like Biopolymer can be used as an alternative to synthetic plastic. Then the production of polyhydroxybutyrate by using cost-effective substrates and their strains such as sugarcane molasses, Canned pineapple (C. necator strain A04), Cow dung (Bacillus pumilus H9), Sugar industry wastewater, and Banana (Musa sp.) fronds extract (Cupriavidus necator H16) was drawn from different studies. The main hassle in the large-scale production of PHB using the physicochemical technique is the manufacturing cost as compared to the petrochemical-obtained plastic production.\r\nOptimizing various inexpensive and natural substrates to overcome manufacturing costs in large-scale commercial production is one of the well-known trends in the industry today.\r\nIt was concluded that alkali pre-treatment and microwave pre-treatment are effective, energy-intensive, and simple methods for the optimization of PHB production.\r\nAdditionally, the trends in the recent development of PHB production through Cyanobacteria which have high protein content, Cupriavidus necator by using CO2 as a renewable feedstock, Sugar refinery waste products, Polyacidic acid a biodegradable material originally used for food packaging, various Biocomposites used for making dental implants was observed. Furthermore, various important applications of PHB in different sectors including Environmental, Pharmacology, Medical field, Material packaging, and its unique properties such as biodegradability, low thermal stability, and non-toxicity came into view. In this sense, this biopolymer polyhydroxybutyrate is the most effective to reduce the pollution value of the environment, and in today\'s industry; there are various inexpensive substrates to overcome manufacturing costs in large-scale commercial production.\r\n','-','Anisha, Bidisha Kumari and Pratham Jindal (2023). Polyhydroxybutyrate Production by various Substrates: Optimization and Application. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 15(1): 463-474.'),(6015,'147','Qualitative Parameters and Relative Economics of Mango (Mallika) Pulp as Influenced by Preservatives and Temperature','Manisha Jangir, Virendra Singh and Nupur Sharma','Qualitative-Parameters-and-Relative-Economics-of-Mango-_Mallika_-Pulp-as-Influenced-by-Preservatives-and-Temperature-Manisha-Jangir-110.pdf','',4,'The present experiment was performed to evaluate the best method for preservation of mango pulp. For this the pulp of mango were preserved with thirteen different treatment combinations viz., pulp preserved with KMS@0.05% (T1), KMS@0.1% (T2), sodium benzoate@0.05% (T3), sodium benzoate@0.1% (T4), sodium meta-bisulphite@0.05% (T5), sodium meta bi-sulphite@0.1% (T6), potassium sorbate@0.05 % (T7), potassium sorbate@0.1 % (T8), sodium benzoate + potassium sorbate@0.05 % each (T9), KMS+ potassium sorbate@0.05 % each (T10), sodium meta bi-sulphite + potassium sorbate@0.05 % (T11), refrigeration at 4±2°C (T12), frozen storage at -20°C (T13), These treatment combinations were laid out in completely randomized design and replicated four times. Among all the various treatment combinations, pulp stored under low temperature i.e. at (-20°C) storage was found to be superior over rest of the treatments in terms of overall qualitative characteristics such as TSS, sugars (reducing and total), ascorbic acid and higher pH and lower acidity, performed better in terms of sensory parameters such as taste, flavour, aroma, also, it resulted in higher net returns and B:C ratio. All the parameters of samples were analyzed at fortnight interval during 90 days of storage and at end of storage. The overall acceptable pulp samples were used for economic analysis and for preparation of different value added products (RTS, Squash and jam) and analyzed for its quality.','Mango pulp, Preservation, Ambient storage, Preservative, Economics','As per the results from the present investigation, the following conclusion can be derived that, mango pulp preserved under low temperature (-20°C) resulted in superior quality and physico-chemical stability upto 90 days of storage. However from economical analysis, preserving the pulp preserved with KMS was found to be the best but pulp storage at -20°C was found best from health point of view considering the chemical preservatives being harmful to the health and may be proposed for preservation of mango pulp. The present research work can be helpful for further development of a safer and viable storage of mango pulp at industrial scale. ','-','Manisha Jangir, Virendra Singh and Nupur Sharma (2022). Qualitative Parameters and Relative Economics of Mango (Mallika) Pulp as Influenced by Preservatives and Temperature. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 14(4a): 633-638.'),(6016,'148','Allelopathic effect of Leaf Extracts of some Common Weeds on Seed Germination Characteristics and Growth of Oryza sativa L.','Harvinder Kaur Sidhu, Iftikhar Ahmed Malik, Mayank Varun and Rohan John D’souza','Allelopathic-effect-of-Leaf-Extracts-of-Some-Common-Weeds-on-Seed-Germination-Characteristics-and-Growth-of-Oryza-sativa-L.-Iftikhar Ahmed Malik-76.pdf','',1,'The present study was conducted to investigate the allelopathic effects of Amaranthus viridis, Lantana camara and Achyranthes aspera on seed germination and seedling growth of Basmati rice (Oryza sativa L.). Aqueous leaf extracts of weeds at 50% conc. and 100% conc. were applied to determine their effects on seed germination characteristics, seedling length and dry weight of Basmati IR-8 variety of rice plant under in vitro conditions. In field experiment, 5g/kg and 10g/kg of the weeds’ leaf powder was used to study the above mentioned parameters along with the leaf surface area and chlorophyll content. The aqueous extracts of the weeds under study caused inhibitory effects on seed germination characteristics, seedling length, dry weight, leaf surface area and chlorophyll content of basmati IR-8 variety of rice plant. The leaf extract of Amaranthus viridis had the most inhibitory effect on test plant followed by Lantana camara. Interestingly, the effects of Achyranthes aspera varied with the growth matrix. Hot water extracts of the weeds were found to be more effective than cold water extracts and inhibitory effects was linearly proportional to the conc. of the weeds as it increased with the increase in the conc. of the weeds.','Allelopathy, weeds, seed germination characteristics and growth','Amaranthus viridis inhibited the germination and growth of rice variety IR-8 the most followed by Lantana camara. These findings are significant as inhibition of germination and growth translates into decreased productivity. Hence, such weed-crop interactions need to be taken into consideration also. The results of petridish and pot experiments varied for Achyranthes aspera.\r\nThus, it is of vital importance to corroborate any in vitro findings with the subsequent Greenhouse and field trials which take into account diverse natural conditions which plants face while growing without human interference. Furthermore, there is need to further work on the allelopathic stress of such species under varied climatic and soil conditions and also to quantify the allelopathic compounds.\r\n','-','Harvinder Kaur Sidhu, Iftikhar Ahmed Malik, Mayank Varun and Rohan John D’souza (2023). Allelopathic effect of Leaf Extracts of some common Weeds on Seed Germination Characteristics and Growth of Oryza sativa L. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 15(1): 475-481.'),(6017,'148','Effect of Irrigation Scheduling and Fertigation on Leaf Nutrient Content and Uptake of N, P and K of Pomegranate cv. Bhagwa under Semi-arid Conditions of Rajasthan','Manisha Jangir, K.K. Meena, D.K. Sarolia, Yogesh Kumar Sharma, Shweta Gupta and Nupur Sharma','Effect-of-Irrigation-Scheduling-and-Fertigation-on-Leaf-Nutrient-Content-and-Uptake-of-N,-P-and-K-of-Pomegranate-cv.-Bhagwa-under-Semi-arid-Conditions-of-Rajasthan-Manisha-Jangir-77.pdf','',1,'The trial was conducted on pomegranate plants of cv. Bhagwa growing under high density planting system (3 m × 3 m) with three drip irrigation levels, i.e., 100%,75% & 50 % on pan evaporation basis and four fertigation levels, i.e., 100% RDF as basal, 100%, 75% and 50% recommended dose of fertilizer through drip. After field experiment for two consecutive years it is concluded that maximum leaf N and P content (%) was found under the treatment I3F3(100% irrigation at PE level + 75 % RDF through drip) whereas maximum Leaf K Content (%) was found under the treatment I3F2(100% irrigation at PE level + 100 % RDF through drip). For nutrient uptake, maximum N uptake (kg ha-1) (413.77) was recorded in the treatment I3F2 which was found to be statistically at par with I3F3, maximum P uptake (kg ha-1) (40.88) was recorded in the treatment I3F2 which was found to be statistically at par with I3F3, whereas maximum K uptake (kg ha-1) (313.35) was recorded in the treatment I3F2 which was found to be statistically at par with I3F3.','Irrigation, Nutrient uptake, leaf nutrient content, fertigation, pomegranate','From the above discussion, it may be concluded since treatment I3F2 (100% irrigation at PE level + 100 % RDF through drip) was found the best among all the treatment combinations, as it recorded maximum nutrient content (%) as well as maximum nutrient uptake (kg/ha.). ','-','Manisha Jangir, K.K. Meena, D.K. Sarolia, Yogesh Kumar Sharma, Shweta Gupta and Nupur Sharma (2023). Effect of Irrigation Scheduling and Fertigation on Leaf Nutrient Content and Uptake of N, P and K of Pomegranate cv. Bhagwa under Semi-arid Conditions of Rajasthan. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 15(1): 482-487.'),(6018,'147','Effect of different Post-harvest Packaging Treatments on Shelf-life and Quality of Banana var. Grand Naine','M.R. Bhanusree, S. Chakravarty, G. Pragna1and C.P. Suresh','Effect-of-different-Post-harvest-Packaging-Treatments-on-Shelf-life-and-Quality-of-Banana-var.-Grand-Naine-M.R.-Bhanusree-111.pdf','',4,'An experiment was carried out to investigate the effect of different packaging materials on shelf life and quality of banana fruits at Postharvest laboratory of Uttar Banga Krishi Viswavidyalaya, Pundibari, West Bengal. The experimental treatments were Un-perforated & perforated polyethylene bag and news paper wrapping in combination with KMnO4 & Wax coating along with control. The experiment was laid out in a complete randomized design (CRD) with three replications. Fruits treated with KMnO4 + wax coating kept in unperforated polythene cover under ambient conditions was recorded highest green-life (17.31 days), yellow-life (7.62 days) and shelf-life (24.93 days) when compared to control. The titrable acidity was also highest in the same treatment on 3rd day (0.94 and 0.99) degraded up to (0.26 and 0.29 %) on 24th day whereas in control it was recorded (0.68 and 0.63) on 3rd day and degraded to (0.36 and 0.35%) on 12th day only. Similarly, the sugar acid ratio was also best in case of fruits treated with KMnO4 + wax coating kept in unperforated polythene cover (T3) and KMnO4 + wax coating kept in perforated polythene cover when compared to control.','Physical Parameters, shelf life, Banana, Packing material and Post-harvest treatments','Under ambient conditions and without any post-harvest storage treatments Grand Naine fruits could be stored up to 12 days. However, using different post-harvest packaging treatments can extended shelf lifeup to 24 days along with improved quality and increased fruit shelf life (green + yellow life) during storage through increased sugar acid ratio, thus it is recommended to create a modified atmospheric condition of the storage environment by packaging the fruits in polyethylene bags with or without perforations but fortifying the bagging with potassium permanganate and wax coating of the stored fruits.','-','M.R. Bhanusree, S. Chakravarty, G. Pragna and C.P. Suresh (2022). Effect of Different Post-harvest Packaging Treatments on Shelf-life and Quality of Banana var. Grand Naine. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 14(4a): 639-644.'),(6019,'148','Feeding of different Mulberry Varieties and its Impact on Silk Gland of Silkworm, Bombyx mori L.','Tajamul Islam, Shabir Ahmad Bhat, Firdous Ahmad Malik, Shabir Ahmad Wani, Farooq Ahmad Khan, Shakeel Ahmad Mir and Nageena Nazir','Feeding-of-different-Mulberry-Varieties-and-its-Impact-on-Silk-Gland-of-Silkworm,-Bombyx-mori-L.-Tajamul-Islam-78.pdf','',1,'The mulberry varieties play an important role for the growth and development of silkworm, Bombyx mori. The good quality mulberry leaves produces excellent growth of silk gland of silkworm, which yields good silk both qualitatively and quantitatively, which finally reflects in the production of good cocoon crop. The research trial was conducted at Division of Sericulture Crop Improvement, College of Temperate Sericulture, Mirgund, SKUAST-Kashmir during spring seasons. The three mulberry varieties namely Kokuso-21, SKM-33 and Goshoerami were fed to silkworm right from brushing upto spinning of cocoons. Besides one control was also maintained throughout rearing period. On the 5th day of fifth instar silkworm larvae were taken and dissected to remove silk gland for recording of silk gland weight, tissue somatic index, silk conversion index and silk productivity. Among these tested mulberry varieties highest silk gland weight (1.965 g) was recorded in Goshoerami fed silkworm batch. Furthermore, highest silk productivity (5.433 cg/day) and silk conversion index (21.8 %) was recorded in Kokuso-21 fed silkworm batch. The tissue somatic index did not show any significant difference after fed on different mulberry varieties.','Feeding, mulberry varieties, silk gland, Bombyx mori','The nutritive value of mulberry leaf is an important factor for determining the success of silkworm rearing and cocoon formation. Quality mulberry leaves are found to incite the healthy growth of silk gland of silkworm, which finally produces good cocoon crop. The mulberry varieties varies in the biochemical constitution of leaves and therefore influences the growth and development of silk gland of silkworm differently. In the present study Goshoerami and Kokuso-21 varieties showed significant improvement in the parameters like silk gland weight, silk productivity and silk conversion index as compared to other varieties and control. The good performance shown by these varieties may be due to the increased nutrients in the form of moisture content, moisture retention capacity, proteins, carbohydrates, free amino acids etc present in the leaves of these mulberry varieties. Due to the high nutritive content in the leaves of these mulberry leaves, these can be utilized for the better growth of silkworms, which will result in the success of sericulture for silkworm rearers and uflift them economically. Keeping the above research findings in mind further experiments can be conducted to evolve more mulberry genotypes which will be more nutrition rich and will have more suitability as silkworm feed for silkworm rearing.','-','Tajamul Islam, Shabir Ahmad Bhat, Firdous Ahmad Malik, Shabir Ahmad Wani, Farooq Ahmad Khan, Shakeel Ahmad Mir and Nageena Nazir (2023). Feeding of different Mulberry varieties and its Impact on silk gland of silkworm, Bombyx mori L. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 15(1): 488-492.'),(6020,'148','Assessment of Genotypic Variability, Heritability and Genetic advance for Growh, Yield and Quality Related Traits in Bitter Gourd (Momordica charantia L.) Genotypes','Revati Bannatti, Vijayakumar Rathod, Vilas D. Gasti, Shashikanth Evoor, Rekha Bheemappa Chittapur and Shivayogi Y. Ryavalad\r\n','Assessment-of-Genotypic-Variability,-Heritability-and-Genetic-advance-for-Growh,-Yield-and-Quality-Related-Traits-in-Bitter-Gourd-(Momordica-charantia-L.)-Genotype-Revati-Bannatti-79.pdf','',1,'Bitter gourd (Momordica charantia L.) is an important nutritious vegetable crop belonging to the genera momordica with diploid chromosome number 2n=22 and is cultivated for immature tuberculate fruits which containing a unique bitter taste. The characteristic bitter taste is due to the presence of ‘momordicine’ chemical. Genetic variability is a pre requisite for a plant breeder to develop a high yielding with good quality variety. It is important because it helps to maintain the health of population by including alleles that may be valuable in resisting diseases and nutraceutical values. The present investigation was undertaken to compute the genotypic variability, heritability and genetic advance for growth and yield parameters among fifty genotypes of bitter gourd (Momordica charantia L.). In a randomized block design with two replications during kharif 2022 at KRCCH, Arabhavi. Analysis of variance exhibited maximal significant differences among the genotypes were observed for all the traits under study. The phenotypic coefficient of variation (PCV) was higher than genotypic coefficient of variation (GCV) for all the traits. High (> 20 %) genotypic coefficient of variation (GCV) and phenotypic coefficient variation (PCV) were observed for number of primary branches per plant, vine length, node number at which first female flower appearance, fruit length, L:D ratio, sex ratio, ascorbic acid, average fruit weight, fruit yield per vine, fruit yield per hectare, beta carotene. It indicated the existence of broad genetic base, which would be amenable for further selection. High heritability (> 60 %) coupled with high genetic advance as per cent over mean (> 20 %) were recorded for the characters such as, number of primary branches per plant, days to first male flowering, node number at which first male flower opening, sex ratio, node number at which first female flower opening, vine length, fruit yield per vine, fruit length, average fruit weight, ascorbic acid, fruit yield per hectare, beta carotene and exocarp thickness this due to the prevalence of additive gene action. Hence, there is a huge scope for improving these traits through direct selection. ','Bitter gourd genotypes, heritability, variability, genetic advance, genotypic and phenotypic coefficient of variation','Analysis of variance exhibited that, enough amount of significant differences present among the fifty bitter gourd germplasms with respect to the different types of traits viz., number of primary branches per plant, vine length (m), days to first male and female flowering, sex ratio, node number at which first male flower appearance, days to 50 per cent flowering, fruit diameter (cm), average fruit weight (g), node number at which first female flower appearance, L:D ratio, number of fruits per vine, fruit yield per vine (kg), fruit length (cm), fruit yield per hectare (kg/ha), ascorbic acid (mg/100g), β-carotene content (mg/100g), tuberculates and fruit exocarp (mm). This represented that, ample amount of variation present among the bitter gourd genotypes. ','-','Revati Bannatti, Vijayakumar Rathod, Vilas D. Gasti, Shashikanth Evoor, Rekha Bheemappa Chittapur and Shivayogi Y. Ryavalad (2023). Assessment of Genotypic Variability, Heritability and Genetic advance for Growh, Yield and Quality Related Traits in Bitter Gourd (Momordica charantia L.) Genotypes. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 15(1): 493-498.'),(6021,'148','Studies on Effect of Plant Growth Regulators and Micronutrients on Growth, Flowering, Fruit Set and Yield of Drumstick cv Bhagya','Pallavi, Vijaykumar Rathod, Vilas D. Gasti, Mukesh L. Chavan and Syeed Almas R. Mulla','Studies-on-Effect-of-Plant-Growth-Regulators-and-Micronutrients-on-Growth,-Flowering,-Fruit-Set-and-Yield-of-Drumstick-cv-Bhagya-Pallavi-80.pdf','',1,'Drumstick (Moringa oleifera) is belongs to the family Moringaceae, The leaves, pods, flowers and immature pods of this tree has enormous nutrients and because of these high nutritive values it is used as vegetable in many countries. The present investigation was carried out to find out the response of foliar application of plant growth regulators and micronutrients on growth, flowering, fruit set and yield parameters of drumstick cv. Bhagya in a randomized block design, twenty treatments with two replication during rabi - summer 2021-22 at Department of Vegetable Science, Kittur Rani Channamma College of Horticulture, Aabhavi, Karnataka, India. The experimental results revealed that all treatments performed significantly better when compared to control with respect to all morphological and yield attributes. The maximum number of primary branches (6.90), length of primary leaf rachis (50.99 cm & 67.19 cm at 30 & 60 DAS), number of flowers per panicle (40.00), number of panicles per plant (72.50), number of pods per panicle (2.50), fruit set (6.25%), number of pods per plant (171.25), individual pod weight (54.30 g), individual pod girth (4.93 cm), yield per plant (9.30 kg) and highest benefit cost ratio (3.43) were recorded in NAA @ 40 ppm + Zinc Sulphate @ 0.5 per cent + Boric Acid @ 0.2 per cent.. However, maximum plant height (2.80 m & 4.09 m at 30 & 60 DAS) and individual pod length (66.24 cm) was recorded in GA3 at 20 ppm. ','Drumstick, plant growth regulators, micronutrients, yield, fruit set, pod','In the nutrient management of drumstick cv. Bhagya was found that, the foliar application of NAA at 40 ppm + Zinc Sulphate at 0.50 per cent + Boric Acid at 0.20 per cent effectively increased the growth, flowering, fruit set and yield with maximum benefit cost ratio than control (water spray).','-','Pallavi, Vijaykumar Rathod, Vilas D. Gasti, Mukesh L. Chavan and Syeed Almas R. Mulla (2023). Studies on Effect of Plant Growth Regulators and Micronutrients on Growth, Flowering, Fruit Set and Yield of Drumstick cv Bhagya. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 15(1): 499-504.'),(6022,'148','Development and Validation of an Easily Interpretable QSAR Model for Inhibitory Activity Prediction against Dihydrofolate Reductase from Candida albicans','Sharav Desai, Vijay K. Patel, Ankita S. Patel and Jaini Patel','Development-and-Validation-of-an-Easily-Interpretable-QSAR-Model-for-Inhibitory-Activity-Prediction-against-Dihydrofolate-Reductase-from-Candida-albicans-Sharav-Desai-81.pdf','',1,'Candidiasis is a devastating infection caused by the fungi Candida albicans species of the genus Candida. The current treatment available for candidiasis is affected by drug-resistant strains. The primary objective of the study was to developa robust and accurate regression-based QSAR model to virtually predict the inhibitory activity of the dihydrofolate reductase enzyme present in Candida albicans. We have collected 281 chemical compounds with known inhibitory activity from the ChEMBL webserver. We initially used manual curation to remove blank and false entries from the downloaded databases. All the structures were converted into sdf format using OpenBabel software. We calculated more than 2400 structural descriptors for each class of chemical compound using Alvadesc software. The main challenge encountered during the study was handling such massive data produced after calculating descriptors. Several feature selection techniques are used to reduce the number of insignificant descriptors. A total of four machine learning algorithms named MLR, SVR, RF, and RT were used to build the QSAR model on the training dataset. We used R2, MAE, Y-randomization, applicability domain, and prediction reliability indicators as statistical tools to find out the robustness, stability, and predictability of the model. The model showed satisfactory results in all the calculated parameters under the acceptable range. The developed can be used to screen inhibitors against Candida albicans.','QSAR, Candida albicans, Dihydrofolate reductase, Y-randomization, Applicability domain, prediction reliability indicator','To find structural significant properties for a compound to show inhibitory activity against dihydrofolate reductase enzyme, the QSAR model was developed. We used 281 compounds with known and proven IC50 values for the model development. Feature selection and supervised machine learning techniques were used to develop the model. The statistical validation results obtained showed good predictive ability based on both internal and external parameters for validation. The model developed can be used to screen a large pool of compounds for their inhibitory activity and features obtained through studies can be used to design novel inhibitors. The list of the inhibitors screened from the virtual screening can be used for the further development of novel inhibitors.','-','Sharav Desai, Vijay K. Patel, Ankita S. Patel and Jaini Patel (2023). Development and Validation of an Easily Interpretable QSAR Model for Inhibitory Activity Prediction against Dihydrofolate Reductase from Candida albicans. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 15(1): 505-513.'),(6023,'148','Variation in Chemical properties of Soil after Harvest of Malt Barley Crop (Hordeum vulgare L.) under different Fertility Levels and Biofertilizers in Sub Tropical Southern Plains and Aravali Hills of Rajasthan','Sonal Athnere, P.C. Chaplot, Pinky Yadav and Sundar Anchra','Variation-in-Chemical-properties-of-Soil-After-Harvest-of-Malt-Barley-Crop-(Hordeum-vulgare-L.)-under-Different-Fertility-Levels-and-Biofertilizers-in-Sub-Tropical-S-Sonal-Athnere-82.pdf','',1,'Soil is the important component of crop production, has numerous functions and vital role in production system. Indiscriminate use of inorganic fertilizers is the major cause for soil salinization, alkalization and soil acidity which ultimately affects the crop yield. To overcome such problems, during the rabi season 2020–21 and 2021–22, a field trial was carried out at the Instructional Farm, Department of Agronomy, Rajasthan College of Agriculture, MPUAT, Udaipur on clay loam soil with low available nitrogen (278.36 to 279.42 kg ha-1), medium available phosphorus (18.73 to 20.39 kg ha-1) and high available potassium status (328.40 to 332.72 kg ha-1) which was slightly alkaline in response with 15 treatment combinations made up of three fertility levels- 50 kg N + 25 kg P2O5 + 15 kg K2O ha-1, 60 kg N+30 kg P2O5 + 20 kg K2O ha-1 and 70 kg N + 40kg P2O5 + 25 kg K2O ha-1 with five biofertilizers i.e. control, Azotobacter, PSB, KMB and Azotobacter + PSB + KMB. The trial was set up in a randomised block design (factorial).As a result of the investigation, after the harvesting of crop, application of 70 kg N+40 kg P2O5 + 25 kg K2O ha-1 recorded maximum available nitrogen (299.18 kg ha-1), available phosphorus (25.57 kg ha-1), available potassium (349.80 kg ha-1) and organic carbon (0.708 %) in soil which was significantly higher over remaining fertility levels. Further, the results showed that seed inoculation with liquid biofertilizers Azotobacter + PSB + KMB significantly enhanced available nitrogen (304.97 kg ha-1), available phosphorus (25.09 kg ha-1) and available potassium (357.44 kg ha-1) in soil after harvest of crop.\r\nThus, the combine application of 70 kg N + 40 kg P2O5 + 25 kg K2O ha-1 along with inoculation of seed with Azotobacter + PSB + KMB proved most effective in elevating nutrient status of soil.\r\n','Malt barley, available nutrients, biofertilizers and fertility levels','It could be concluded that application of 70 kg N+40 kg P2O5 +25 kg K2O ha-1 along with inoculation of seed with liquid biofertilizers Azotobacter + PSB + KMB proved to be most suitable practice in elevating the soil chemical properties after harvest of malt barley crop.','-','Sonal Athnere, P.C. Chaplot, Pinky Yadav and Sundar Anchra (2023). Variation in Chemical properties of Soil After Harvest of Malt Barley Crop (Hordeum vulgare L.) under different Fertility Levels and Biofertilizers in Sub Tropical Southern Plains and Aravali Hills of Rajasthan. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 15(1): 514-518.'),(6024,'148','Effect of Arbuscular Mycorrhizal Fungi (AMF) on Growth, Biomass and Photosynthetic Pigments of Leuceana leucocephala under Arsenic Soil Stress in Nursery','Anupama R. and Chamola B.P.','Effect-of-Arbuscular-Mycorrhizal-Fungi-_AMF_-on-Growth,-Biomass-and-Photosynthetic-Pigments-of-Leuceana-leucocephala-under-Arsenic-Soil-Stress-in-Nursery-Anupama-R-83.pdf','',1,'The inoculation of arbuscular mycorrhizal (AM) fungus is seen as a possible biotechnological method for the environmentally friendly treatment of dangerous pollutants. A greenhouse experiment was conducted to analyse growth, biomass, chlorophyll and carotenoid content in Leuceana leucocephala seedlings inoculated with 2AMF (Glomus macrocarpum and Glomus fasciculatum) under arsenic stress (0, 25, 50, 100 mg/kg soil) for 3 months. Treatments was arranged in randomized complete block design. Outcomes of study shown that arsenic has impacted plants negatively whereas the plants inoculated with AMF (both) had impacted their growth positively. AMF inoculated plants shown significant increase in plant growth, biomass, chlorophyll and carotenoid content. Our results suggest that Glomus macrocarpum and Glomus fasciculatum both an effective bio-inoculant of Leuceana leucocephala for adverse effect under arsenic stressed soil. And Leuceana leucocephala showed a fair tolerance ability for arsenic soil contamination.','AMF, Glomus macrocarpum, Glomus fasciculatum, Leuceana leucocephala','In the present study revealed that growth parameters and photosynthetic pigments of Leuceana leucocephala were reduced by arsenic stress in soil. The combination of arsenic stress and AMF (Glomus fasciculatum and Glomus macrocarpum) results in positive growth of all seedlings for all parameters. Whereas Glomus fasciculatum has higher responses than Glomus macrocarpum and control. Photosynthetic pigments were more affected by higher arsenic concentration (50 and 100 mg/kg soil), where at 25 mg/kg soil arsenic level impacts are marginal.\r\nPhytoremediation is an effective and efficient method for getting rid of heavy metals from toxic environment. There is need to identify new hyper-accumulator plant species that are more tolerant to Arsenic and also enhancing the capacity of existing accumulators by various means.\r\n','-','Anupama R. and Chamola B.P. (2023). Effect of Arbuscular Mycorrhizal Fungi (AMF) on Growth, Biomass and Photosynthetic Pigments of Leuceana leucocephala under Arsenic Soil Stress in Nursery. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 15(1): 519-525.'),(6025,'149','Formulation Development and Evaluation of Herbal Cream for Candidiasis','Shilpa Thakur and Sharav Desai','Formulation-Development-and-Evaluation-of-Herbal-Cream-for-Candidiasis-Sharav-Desai-1.pdf','',1,'The present work describes the formulation and evaluation of topical herbal cream prepared from the leaf extract of Camellia sinensis effective against the yeast Candida albicans. The physicochemical and phytochemical screening was performed for the extract along with antifungal activity and minimum inhibitory concentration. The herbal cream was optimized using different concentrations of white petrolatum and lanolin as independent variables; Spreadability, viscosity, zone of inhibition, and % drug release as dependent variables using 32 factorial designs. The optimized formula was evaluated by different parameters like anticandidal activity, pH, Spread ability, viscosity, homogeneity, consistency, acid value, saponification value, thixotropy study, in vitro drug release study, comparison with marketed formulation, skin irritation study, and stability study. FTIR study showed compatibility of excipients with the extract. The optimized formulation was found brown, having a characteristic odor, pH 6.7, zone of inhibition was 14.96 ± 0.11 mm, Spreadability 15.13 gm.cm/sec, viscosity 1556 cps, homogenous, consistency 5.5 mm, acid value 0.66 and saponification value 185. The drug release was found to be 84.41 % over 180 minutes. Further, an animal study showed no skin irritation, and the prepared formulation was found to be stable. Camellia sinensis extract showed good antifungal activity against the yeast Candida albicans. ','Camellia sinensis, Candida albicans, Candidiasis, herbal cream, herbal formulation','A herbal formulation was prepared using Camellia sinensis L. for the treatment of Candidiasis. A reformulation study of physicochemical and phytochemical screening was carried out and the results obtained were satisfactory. The standard calibration curve was taken in water and phosphate buffer pH 7.4 at λmax 274 nm. The optimized formulation has pH 6.7, a Spreadability of 15.13 gm.cm/sec, a viscosity of 1556 cps, 14.96 ± 0.11 mm zone of inhibition, and 84.41 % drug release. Skin irritation study on rabbits showed no irritancy explaining that the formulation shows no sensitivity to skin tissues. The short-term stability study showed no changes in the physicochemical properties of formulation during 1 month.','-','Shilpa Thakur and Sharav Desai (2023). Formulation Development and Evaluation of Herbal Cream for Candidiasis. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 15(2): 01-08.'),(6026,'149','Anti-Obesity Property of Indian Tulsi Plant (Ocimum sanctum) using in silico Docking Techniques','Kevizano Jacinta Zashumo, D. Leelavathi and Hezinglila Grace','Anti-Obesity-Property-of-Indian-Tulsi-Plant-_Ocimum-sanctum_-using-in-silico-Docking-Techniques-Kevizano-Jacinta-Zashumo-2.pdf','',1,'The complex disease of obesity is brought on by having too much body fat. Obesity is a health issue and a significant contributor to the emergence of major conditions such as insulin resistance, type 2 diabetes, cardiovascular disease, and several cancers. The sedentary lifestyle, dietary fluctuations, inactivity, stress, etc. are additional contributing factors. This study aims to screen the bioactive compound Eugenol from Ocimum sanctum which has anti-obesity properties and to provide scientific justification in terms of its active ingredient to the target protein for treating obesity using molecular drug docking. In the early stages of drug development, rational drug design is a key step for preclinical studies of therapeutic properties. Even with recognised biological targets, it is challenging to produce a lead chemical and an effective treatment. In this in silico research target identification was done by NCBI and sequence conversion was done using Emboss Seqrt for the mutated Obesity Gene LEP. Protein binding sites were carried out using Cavity Plus Server where six cavity pockets were identified for Binding. Molecular docking was done using HDOCK. Docking is done to check the stability of the binding of the Ligand with its Receptor. The results elucidated show how the anti-obesity compound Eugenol can help in minimising the obesity properties since it has direct binding affinities with mutated LEP Gene. Computer-aided systems biology techniques have reignited interest in harnessing medications\' natural promiscuity to repurpose known pharmaceuticals, understand and generate drugs, focus on intricate paths, and discover links between distantly linked proteins; these initiatives will have far-reaching consequences. ','Obesity, LEP, HDock, Eugenol, Ocimum sanctum, silico Docking Techniques','The molecular docking in silico study done on Eugenol and mutated LEP Gene can be used to mimic the interaction between a small molecule and a protein at the atomic level, allowing us to characterise small molecule behaviour in target protein binding sites as well as elucidate key biochemical processes. With the findings of the binding sites using Cavity pockets the Ligand will be able to bind the Receptor and form a stable complex in minimising the mutational effect of the mutated LEP Gene since Ocimum sanctum has anti-obesity properties.','-','Kevizano Jacinta Zashumo, D. Leelavathi and Hezinglila Grace (2023). Anti-Obesity Property of Indian Tulsi Plant (Ocimum sanctum) using in silico Docking Techniques. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 15(2): 09-14.'),(6027,'148','Uses of Ethno-Medicinal and nutritive Plants by Tribals of Dungarpur District, Rajasthan','Jayana Upadhyay and C.S. Kapoor','Uses-of-Ethno-Medicinal-and-nutritive-Plants-by-Tribals-of-Dungarpur-District,-Rajasthan-C.S.-Kapoor-84.pdf','',4,'The southern Rajasthan is very rich in ethno-medicinal plants’ wealth. The Mewar of Rajasthan are inhabited by many tribes, like Meena, Bhil, Garasia, Damor and out of these Kathodia is major tribe. In their daily lives, these tribes employ the plants for a variety of uses. The majority of rural people still rely on traditional medicine as their main source of healthcare, while the tribal people still rely on the forests for their means of subsistence. The study emphasises the region\'s abundant plant resources and the enormous amount of ethnobotanical knowledge held by the numerous tribes there. The use of these natural herbs is said to be the cause of the tribal communities\' innate health, vigour, and longevity. However, due to environmental changes and lack conservation, many of plants have entered in the category of rare, threatened and endangered. The goal of this investigation is to give a complete account of the plant resources and the portions employed, as well as the form of administration, that the tribal groups in Rajasthan have claimed to be successful for treating a range of ailments by combining floristic and sociological methodologies. Functional foods control various diseases either by controlling their source or origin or by controlling their pathway. Additionally, they strike a balance between beneficial nutrients and bodily toxins. Diabetes mellitus is one of the diseases caused by a sedentary lifestyle that wrecks lives.','Ethno-Medicinal plants, Aravalli hills, Tribals, Calotropis procera','The state of Southern Rajasthan is abundant in ethno-medical plants. The locals and tribal populations of Rajasthan value these plants as herbal and folk traditional medicines, which are widely used by them. The goal of the current inquiry is to increase public knowledge of the ethno-medical importance of medicinal plants.','-','Jayana Upadhyay and C.S. Kapoor (2023). Uses of Ethno-Medicinal and nutritive Plants by Tribals of Dungarpur District, Rajasthan. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 15(1): 526-534.'),(6028,'148','Uses of Ethno-Medicinal and nutritive Plants by Tribals of Dungarpur District, Rajasthan','Jayana Upadhyay and C.S. Kapoor','Uses-of-Ethno-Medicinal-and-nutritive-Plants-by-Tribals-of-Dungarpur-District,-Rajasthan-C.S.-Kapoor-84.pdf','',1,'The southern Rajasthan is very rich in ethno-medicinal plants’ wealth. The Mewar of Rajasthan are inhabited by many tribes, like Meena, Bhil, Garasia, Damor and out of these Kathodia is major tribe. In their daily lives, these tribes employ the plants for a variety of uses. The majority of rural people still rely on traditional medicine as their main source of healthcare, while the tribal people still rely on the forests for their means of subsistence. The study emphasises the region\'s abundant plant resources and the enormous amount of ethnobotanical knowledge held by the numerous tribes there. The use of these natural herbs is said to be the cause of the tribal communities\' innate health, vigour, and longevity. However, due to environmental changes and lack conservation, many of plants have entered in the category of rare, threatened and endangered. The goal of this investigation is to give a complete account of the plant resources and the portions employed, as well as the form of administration, that the tribal groups in Rajasthan have claimed to be successful for treating a range of ailments by combining floristic and sociological methodologies. Functional foods control various diseases either by controlling their source or origin or by controlling their pathway. Additionally, they strike a balance between beneficial nutrients and bodily toxins. Diabetes mellitus is one of the diseases caused by a sedentary lifestyle that wrecks lives.','Ethno-Medicinal plants, Aravalli hills, Tribals, Calotropis procera','The state of Southern Rajasthan is abundant in ethno-medical plants. The locals and tribal populations of Rajasthan value these plants as herbal and folk traditional medicines, which are widely used by them. The goal of the current inquiry is to increase public knowledge of the ethno-medical importance of medicinal plants.','-','Jayana Upadhyay and C.S. Kapoor (2023). Uses of Ethno-Medicinal and nutritive Plants by Tribals of Dungarpur District, Rajasthan. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 15(1): 526-534.'),(6029,'147','Multilocus Sequence Analysis of Burkholderia glumae Strains from Indian Hot Spot Regions causing Bacterial Panicle Blight of Rice (Oryza sativa L.)','Sanjeev Kumar, Kalyan K. Mondal, Thungri Ghoshal, Aditya Kulshreshtha, Sreenayana B., Amrutha Lakshmi M., Mrutyunjaya S., Rashmi E.R., Kalaivanan N.S. and Chandra Mani ','Uses-of-Ethno-Medicinal-and-nutritive-Plants-by-Tribals-of-Dungarpur-District,-Rajasthan-C.S.-Kapoor-84.pdf','',4,'Bacterial panicle blight (BPB) is one of the emerging diseases of paddy in the Tarai region of Uttarakhand and the disease problem is increasing every year. The present investigation was conducted to examine the Burkholderia glumae isolates causing bacterial panicle blight (BPB) disease in rice by multilocus sequence analysis (MLSA) of four housekeeping genes atpD, recA and gltB. The atpD gene sequence of Indian strains BG1 and BG2 from UP, BG5 and BG6 from Delhi showed 100% nucleotide homology with NCBI strain B. glumae 3BGNY2-4 isolated from rice in China with grouping together in the same clade, however, other Burkholderia spp, showed lower nucleotide identity and formed a separate cluster from all the B. glumae strains. The gltB and recA gene sequence of Indian strains showed 100% nucleotide identity with NCBI strain B. glumae 336gr-1 and B. glumae HN2 respectively, thus confirming the species to be B. glumae. Similarly, in the phylogenetic tree of gltB and recA gene sequence all four Indian isolates clustered together in the phylogenetic tree where BG5 and BG6 strain from Delhi shared the same clade. Thus, based on the grouping of atpD, gltB and recA gene sequence and phylogenetic analysis of all four Indian isolates of BPB pathogen of rice confirmed the species identity as B. glumae. Thus, present study reveals use of multiple genes for species identification and classification of B. glumae. ','MLSA, atpD, recA, gltB and Burkholderia glumae','Our study brings an overview on using different housekeeping genes for characterising isolates of B. glumae using the sequences of internal fragments of three house-keeping genes atpD, gltB and recA. It can be used for bacterial identification and classification as it offers the opportunity for provision of a more in depth view of the phylogenetic relationships of Burkholderia spp. As the pathogen is of quarantine importance, this knowledge can be used for the monitoring the disease globally.','-','Sanjeev Kumar, Kalyan K. Mondal, Thungri Ghoshal, Aditya Kulshreshtha, Sreenayana B., Amrutha Lakshmi M., Mrutyunjaya S., Rashmi E.R., Kalaivanan N.S. and Chandra Mani (2022). Multilocus Sequence Analysis of Burkholderia glumae Strains from Indian Hot Spot Regions causing Bacterial Panicle Blight of Rice (Oryza sativa L.). Biological Forum – An International Journal, 14(4a): 645-652.'),(6030,'148','Screening of Chickpea Genotypes/varieties against Sclerotinia Rot of Chickpea caused by Sclerotinia sclerotiorum (Lib.) de Bary under Artificial conditions','M.K. Sheshma, D.R. Kumhar, S.L. Godara and Prahlad','Screening-of-Chickpea-Genotypesvarieties-against-Sclerotinia-Rot-of-Chickpea-caused-by-Sclerotinia-sclerotiorum-(Lib.)-de-Bary-under-Artificial-conditions-M.K.-Sheshma-85.pdf','',1,'The present investigation was carried out in artificial conditions of College of Agriculture, Swami Keshwanand Rajasthan Agricultural University, Bikaner (Rajasthan), India during the year 2016-17 and 2017-18. Forty genotypes/varieties of chickpea were screened for reactions against Sclerotinia rot, caused by soil-borne Sclerotinia sclerotiorum under artificial conditions. Out of forty genotypes/varieties of chickpea screened, none was found completely free from S. sclerotiorum infection. None of genotypes/varieties were found moderately resistant (MR) to Sclerotinia rot. Whereas, four genotypes/varieties i.e. GNG-1581, RSG-888, RSG-973 and H-208 were categorized as moderately susceptible (MS) and thirty five genotypes/varieties i.e. GNG-1958, GNG-663, GNG-469, GNG-1969, GNG-1488, GNG-1499, RSG-44, RSG-945, RSG-807, C-235, GNG-146, GNG-1292, CSJD-884, RSG-895, RSG-991, RSG-896, RSG-902, RSG-974, CSJK-21, GNG-2144, Dohad Yellow, K-850, L-550, RSG-584, GNG-2171, ICC-96030, JKG-1, ICC-16644, ICC-17109, BG-379, Chaffa, Radhey, BG-2078, BG-256 and HK-98-155 were assessed as susceptible (S). Rests of RSG-963 genotypes/varieties were recorded as highly susceptible (HS) to S. sclerotiorum infection in chickpea during Rabi 2016-17 and Rabi 2017-18. Development of resistance or tolerant chickpea varieties to Sclerotinia sclerotiorum is challenging since the pathogen is having a wide host range. Hence, knowledge of pathogenic variability is essential in making strategies for developing disease resistant varieties and development of resistant gene in the region.','Chickpea, Genotypes, Sclerotinia rot, Screening and Sclerotinia sclerotiorum','From the present investigation it is concluded that four genotypes/varieties where analyzed as moderately susceptible (MS) viz., GNG-1581, RSG-888, H-208, RSG-973.','-','M.K. Sheshma, D.R. Kumhar, S.L. Godara and Prahlad (2023). Screening of Chickpea Genotypes/varieties Against Sclerotinia Rot of Chickpea caused by Sclerotinia sclerotiorum (Lib.) de Bary under Artificial Conditions. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 15(1): 535-539.'),(6031,'148','Morphometric Study, Length-weight Relationship and Condition Factor of Horabagrus brachysoma (Günther, 1864), an Endemic Fish in the Rivers of Western Ghats of India','Kavya U.M., Nandini N.J. and Siny G. Benjamin','Morphometric-Study,-Length-weight-Relationship-and-Condition-Factor-of-Horabagrus-brachysoma--Siny-G-Benjamin-86.pdf','',1,'Length-weight relationships and condition factor are of great relevance in fishery assessment studies. The relationship between length and weight is necessary for creating the yield equation and occasionally it may be helpful as a character to distinguish \"small taxonomic entities\" and the condition factor is useful in identifying fish biological changes. The present study describes selected biological parameters such as Morphometry, Length-Weight relationship and Condition factor of Horabagrus brachysoma, an endemic fish in the rivers of Western Ghats of India. A total of ninety four fish specimens were collected from Kodoor River, Puthuppally, Kottayam District, Kerala, India. The length-weight relationship of the collected species was determined and the results obtained showed that Horabagrus brachysoma found in Kodoor River has positive allometric growth. The b values ranged between 3.3 and 3.9; b value was higher in the case of males. The mean values of condition factors were found to be one in both the sexes and this shows a better condition of fishes in this aquatic system. ','Horabagrus, condition factors, morphometric study, environment, endemic','The results of the present investigation on morphometric study, length –weight relationship and condition factor revealed a good level of feeding and proper environmental condition and it also provide information for the management and maintenance of the biological equilibrium of their ecosystem. The results of the current investigation\'s morphometric study, length-weight relationship, and condition factor showed that the animals were receiving adequate nutrition and living in a suitable environment. They also provided information for managing and maintaining the biological equilibrium of their ecosystem.','-','Kavya U.M., Nandini N.J. and Siny G. Benjamin (2023). Morphometric Study, Length-weight Relationship and Condition Factor of Horabagrus brachysoma (Günther, 1864), an Endemic Fish in the Rivers of Western Ghats of India. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 15(1): 540-544.'),(6032,'148','Smart Sericulture and IoT: A Review','Shilpa Saikia and Monimala Saikia','Smart-Sericulture-and-IoT-A-Review-Monimala Saikia-87.pdf','',1,'Sericulture is the process of nurturing silkworm to produce silk. Many biotic and abiotic factors are responsible for growth and development of silkworm and successful crop harvest. Modernization with introduction of new technologies is the only alternative to mitigate the limitations of traditional labour intensive sericulture practices and to enhance silk production. Artificial intelligence with IoT will benefit the progress of silkworm and host plant sector by maintaining temperature, humidity and other related factors. Remote sensing technique is arising as a suitable tool for identification of favourable sites for plantation. Automatic sericulture aided with image processing might be useful in preventing disease occurrence and pest infestation by regulating climatic factors with frequent observation of silkworm and host plant. Inevitably, the application of automatic technologies in this field will work wonders, through collective efforts of the people and the government in future.','Artificial intelligence, internet of things, photoperiod, temperature, remote sensing','Modern technology such as artificial intelligence and internet of things could stimulate the development of sericulture and expected to reduce the challenges of the rearers, reelers and those who are involved in the venture. Successful installation of the technologies will surely prevent losses due to fluctuation of environmental factors. Operations related to field activities such as choice of soil for plantation and weather forecasting, diseases, pests will also be made easy. This would require skilled personnel, awareness with high initial installation cost. ','-','Shilpa Saikia and Monimala Saikia (2023). Smart Sericulture and IoT: A Review. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 15(1): 545-549.'),(6033,'148','Review on: CRISPR-Cas 9: A Novel Genome Editing Tool for Insect Pest Management','Rehana Akbar, Sajad Mohi-ud-din, Summira Rafiq, Raheeba Tun Nisa, Mohmmad Asif Sheikh, Amreena Akhter, Iram Iqbal and Ulfat Jan','Review-on-CRISPR-Cas-9-A--Novel-Genome-Editing-Tool-for-Insect-Pest-Management-Rehana-Akbar-88.pdf','',1,'Insect pests pose a severe danger to crop productivity, with insects destroying over 40% of crops globally each year. Pesticides used indiscriminately resulted in insect resistance, a reduction in beneficial insect populations, and a slew of other negative consequences for humans and the environment. In addition, the development of transgenic crops has raised ethical concerns, prompting researchers to consider other approaches. The recent advancement of gene-editing technologies such as the CRISPR-CAS9 system has opened up new possibilities for the creation of novel pest control strategy. This review will provide knowledge about efficiency of CRISPR/CAS9 and also some research ideas for CRISPR/CAS9- based integrated pest management. Due to its specificity and trouble-free handling it has been used to a large range of organisms for various research purposes .CRISPR is a technique for editing parts of the genome by removing or modifying DNA. The CRISPR Cas technique functions through a ribonucleoprotein complex, in which Cas9\'s target recognition lobe interacts with homologous sgRNA to direct specific binding to target DNA, and the excision lobe breaks the DNA. Genome editing\'s potential has opened up a world of possibilities for designing various features in plants and insects. Genome editing is used to develop pest resistant crops by changing the effector–target relationship and knocking out host susceptibility genes, whereas in insects genome editing is done by knocking out genes responsible for insecticide resistance. ','Insect Pest, Susceptible Genes, Management, Genome Editing','Crispr/cas technology has exploded in popularity due to its ease of use, low cost, and versatility as a genome editing tool. The CRISPR Cas-9 system is a flexible technology that has already sparked new uses in biology and other domains. This technology has the potential to transform the pace and direction of agricultural research since it allows scientists to precisely and swiftly implant desired features into plants. Crop protection through genetic modification offers a promising alternative to reducing pesticide use that has no discernible impact on human health or the environment. In the future, researchers will focus on using genome editing technologies to improve agricultural productivity, nutritional value, insect pest and disease resistance, and other features. Much research is still needed on its use in agriculture with the aim to eventually use this technology under field conditions for management of insect pest and diseases.','-','Rehana Akbar, Sajad Mohi-ud-din, Summira Rafiq, Raheeba Tun Nisa, Mohmmad Asif Sheikh, Amreena Akhter, Iram Iqbal and Ulfat Jan (2023). Review on: CRISPR-Cas 9: A Novel Genome Editing Tool for Insect Pest Management. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 15(1): 550-553.'),(6034,'148','Alteration in the Serum Cholesterol Level of Dams due to Intoxication of Mercuric Chloride and its Recovery by Ashwagandha and EPL','Vishwas Tiwari','Alteration-in-the-Serum-Cholesterol-Level-of-Dams-due-to-Intoxication-of-Mercuric-Chloride-and-its-Recovery-by-Ashwagandha-and-EPL-Vishwas-Tiwari-89.pdf','',1,'The recovery function of ‘Essential phospholipids’ (EPL) and Ashwagandha on Mercuric Chloride induced alteration in serum cholesterol levels of dams were investigated. Ashwagandha and EPL is considered as “Indian Ginseng” and remarkable antioxidant reduces toxic free radicals in the blood . Both Allopathic and Ayurvedic medicines may be beneficial in the recovery of intoxicated blood and significant clue for Hematological investigations. Animals were treated with 0.5 ppm aqueous mercuric chloride for a period of 7, 14 and 21 days. For the recovery 175mg of EPL and 35mg of Ashwagandha were administered to mice (Already treated with mercuric chloride) for a period of 7,14 and 21 days. Daily treatment of mercuric chloride decreased the cholesterol level in the blood of dams. Simultaneous administration of EPL and Ashwagandha significantly recovered the serum cholesterol level of dams. It appears that the protective effect of EPL and Ashwagandha against mercuric chloride increased serum level of cholesterol is mediated through antioxidative action of EPL and Ashwagandha. Thus, the serum level of cholesterol in all groups was increased.','Dams (pregnant mice), EPL, Ashwagandha, Cholesterol, Mercuric chloride','The Synergistic recovery effect of EPL and Ashwagandha is remarkably observed in this investigation. The ‘Essential Drug” not only recovers the fluctuated level of Cholesterol but also reset the biochemical pathway of Cholesterol during biosynthesis. Secondly Ashwagandha, ‘The Indian Ginseng” through Anti-oxidative action not only keep the normal recommended level of Cholesterol in the blood but also reduces free radicals in the blood. (David et al., 2003; Tiwari and Bhattacharya 2004).\r\nAshwagandha and EPL is considered as “Indian Ginseng “and remarkable antioxidant reduces toxic free radicals in the blood. Both Allopathic and Ayurvedic medicines may be beneficial in the recovery of intoxicated blood and significant clue for Hematological investigations in the Medical field. The recovery action of ‘Essential phospholipids’ (EPL) and Ashwagandha on Mercuric Chloride induced alteration in serum Cholesterol levels of dams were investigated. The overall recovery in the Cholesterol level was quite beneficial to protect against mercury intoxication. However, for therapeutic purpose further investigations are necessary.\r\n','-','Vishwas Tiwari (2023). Alteration in the Serum Cholesterol Level of Dams due to Intoxication of Mercuric Chloride and its Recovery by Ashwagandha and EPL. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 15(1): 554-558.'),(6035,'148','Impact of Bio-organics on Yield, Quality of Broccoli and soil Properties','Mathukiya A.R., Panchal B.H. and Kotadiya R.H.','Impact of Bio-organics on Yield, Quality of Broccoli and soil Properties-A. R. Mathukiya-90.pdf','',1,'A field experiment was carried out at Horticultural Research Farm, Department of Horticulture, B. A. College of Agriculture, Anand Agricultural University, Anand during rabi season of the year 2021-22. The fifteen treatments were tested which included different components viz, Farm yard manure, Vermicompost, Jeevamrut and Anubhav Bio-NPK in different combinations with different compositions and which was evaluated in randomize block design with three replications. Application of Farm yard manure @ 15 t/ha + Vermicompost @ 3.75 t/ha + Jeevamrut@ 3 % (Drenching and Foliar spray at 30 and 60 DAP) + Anubhav Bio-NPK (Drenching and Foliar spray at 30 and 60 DAT) was resulted significantly increase in curd diameter, weight of curd and yield, quality parameters viz. as iron (mg/100g), potassium (mg/100g) and ascorbic acid (mg/100g). Significant difference was recorded for soil available Iron (kg/ha) and soil microbial count (GM-1). Recently people become more sensitive towards health and are very conscious; therefore, organic products have gained a wide adaptability in the markets with good remuneration. The research findings of this experiment will help to growers for the better and more sustainable production of broccoli which will be more acceptable among end users because of its organic production. It will also help to producers to fetch better prices and will help for the economic upliftment of farmers.','Broccoli, Bio organics, Soil properties, Quality and yield','Based on the results of research experiments, it can concluded that application of Farm yard manure 15 t/ha + Vermicompost 3.75 t/ha + Jeevamrut 3 % (Drenching and Foliar spray at 30 and 60 DAP) + Anubhav Bio-NPK (Drenching and Foliar spray at 30 and 60 DAT)found the most effective treatment for increasing yield and improving quality of broccoli and soil.','-','Mathukiya A.R., Panchal B.H. and Kotadiya R.H. (2023). Impact of Bio-organics on Yield, Quality of Broccoli and soil Properties. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 15(1): 559-563.'),(6036,'148','Antimicrobial Susceptibility of Streptomyces rochei (OM746935) Isolated from Bargur Hills, and their characterization of Bioactive Secondary Metabolites','Dhanasekaran Kokila, Venkatapathi Bhuvaneswari, Manickam Ramesh, Natarajan Ranjani and Ranganathan Kannan\r\n','Antimicrobial-Susceptibility-of-Streptomyces-rochei-_OM746935_-Isolated-from-Bargur-Hills,-and-their-characterization-of-Bioactive-Secondary-Metabolites-Kokila-Dhanasekaran-91.pdf','',1,'The pursuit of novel bioactive substances from the natural environment has been increasing urgency for reduction of microbial infections. Actinomycetes were isolated from 10 different regions of soil samples in the Bargur hills, from Erode, Tamil Nadu, India. The most potent bioactive compounds producing Streptomyces rochei BF3A strain isolated in the 6th region revealed maximum antibacterial activity against all the tested bacteria viz., gram-positive Staphylococcus aureus (ATCC 29737), Bacillus coagulans (MTCC 6735) and gram-negative bacteria Escherichia coli (ATCC 8739), Klebsiella pneumoniae (ATCC 9621), Pseudomonas aeruginosa (ATCC 27853). The production of bioactive metabolites was extracted using ethyl acetate and the extract showed promising antibacterial activity. The Streptomyces rochei BF3A extract revealed minimum inhibitory concentration (MIC) in all the tested bacteria Staphylococcus aureus- 1.25 mg/ml, Bacillus coagulans – 2.50 mg/ml, Escherichia coli – 2.50 mg/ml, Klebsiella pneumoniae – 2.50 mg/ml, Pseudomonas aeruginosa – 5 mg/ml. The bioactive compounds were partially purified by Thin layer chromatography (TLC) and column chromatography and characterized by gas chromatography-mass spectrometry (GC-MS) and Fourier transformed infrared (FTIR) studies conformed Streptomyces rochei strain active fraction showed predominant bioactive compounds Hexahydro-3-(1-methyl propyl) pyrrolo [1,2-a] pyrazine-1,4-dione, Pyrrolo [1,2-a] pyrazine-1,4-dione hexahydro-3-(2-methyl propyl). These findings demonstrated that the existence of bioactive components in BF3A offered a potential source for the creation of powerful antibacterial drugs that were effective against a variety of bacterial infections. As a result, Actinomycetes must be considered as a unique treatment that requires further research in order to prevent the development of antibiotic-resistant microbes.','Bioautography, Fourier Transmission Infra-Red Spectroscopy, Gas Chromatography-Mass Spectrum, Secondary metabolites, Streptomyces rochei','Screening of actinomycetes from Bargur forest yielded 30 actinomycetes from 10 different regions, 6th region of the soil sample exhibited Streptomyces rochei as potent antibacterial activity against all the tested organisms. Bioactive metabolites were separated by TLC and followed by bioautography. The compounds were characterized by FTIR and GC-MS. The major compound was identified as Hexahydro-3-(1-methyl propyl) pyrrolo [1,2-a] pyrazine-1,4-dione. This compound may responsible for the inhibition of bacterial growth with a lower concentration of 1.25 mg/ml. The purification and structural prediction of compounds will be studied in the future.','-','Dhanasekaran Kokila, Venkatapathi Bhuvaneswari, Manickam Ramesh, Natarajan Ranjani and Ranganathan Kannan (2023). Antimicrobial Susceptibility of Streptomyces rochei (OM746935) Isolated from Bargur Hills, and their characterization of Bioactive Secondary Metabolites. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 15(1): 564-575.'),(6037,'148','Anti-hyperbilirubinemic Potential of Aqueous Extract of Mimosa pudica Roots in Wistar Rats','Rupali A. Patil, Pradhnya M. Ghate, Shubhangi H. Pawar, Manisha A. Tayde and Suvarna A. Katti','Anti-hyperbilirubinemic-Potential-of-Aqueous-Extract-of-Mimosa-pudica-Roots-in-Wistar-Rats-Rupali A. Patil-92.pdf','',4,'Paracetamol and Phenylhydrazine (PHZ)-induced hyperbilirubinemia in rat is due to elevated bilirubin content causing damage to the liver. It is associated with hemolysis of RBC’s which causes an over production of Bilirubin. Effect of aqueous extract of Mimosa pudica L. roots (AEMP) was investigated using paracetamol and PHZ-induced hyperbilirubinemia in Wistar rats. In both models, the common parameters estimated were serum Bilirubin, Hemoglobin (Hb), serum levels of liver biomarker enzymes viz., aspartate transaminase (AST), alanine aminotransferase (ALT) and alkaline phosphatase (ALP), various in vivo biochemical parameters like superoxide dismutase (SOD), catalase (CAT), reduced glutathione (GSH) and extent of lipid peroxidation (LPO) in the liver. Serum bilirubin and blood hemoglobin levels were measured on day 1, 5 and 10. AST, ALT and ALP levels measured on day 5 and 10. Paracetamol and PHZ exhibited significant increase in the level of bilirubin and LPO while levels of other parameters significantly decreased on 10th day. AEMP exhibited significant decrease in the levels of bilirubin and LPO and increase in the levels of other parameters on 10th day. Present study indicates that aqueous extract of Mimosa pudica root shows potential antihyperbilirubinemic activity associated with antioxidant activity in both the models indicating usefulness in various liver disorders.','Bilirubin, Hyperbilirubinemia, Jaundice, Mimosa pudica, Paracetamol, Phenylhydrazine','From the above study it can be concluded that aqueous extract of roots of Mimosa pudica possesses an anti-hyperbilirubinemic activity which may be attributed to the antioxidant activity and alkaloids indicating its usefulness in treatment of liver disorders. ','-','Rupali A. Patil, Pradhnya M. Ghate, Shubhangi H. Pawar, Manisha A. Tayde and Suvarna A. Katti (2023). Anti-hyperbilirubinemic Potential of Aqueous Extract of Mimosa pudica Roots in Wistar Rats. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 15(1): 576-581.'),(6038,'148','Anti-hyperbilirubinemic Potential of Aqueous Extract of Mimosa pudica Roots in Wistar Rats','Rupali A. Patil, Pradhnya M. Ghate, Shubhangi H. Pawar, Manisha A. Tayde and Suvarna A. Katti','Anti-hyperbilirubinemic-Potential-of-Aqueous-Extract-of-Mimosa-pudica-Roots-in-Wistar-Rats-Rupali A. Patil-92.pdf','',1,'Paracetamol and Phenylhydrazine (PHZ)-induced hyperbilirubinemia in rat is due to elevated bilirubin content causing damage to the liver. It is associated with hemolysis of RBC’s which causes an over production of Bilirubin. Effect of aqueous extract of Mimosa pudica L. roots (AEMP) was investigated using paracetamol and PHZ-induced hyperbilirubinemia in Wistar rats. In both models, the common parameters estimated were serum Bilirubin, Hemoglobin (Hb), serum levels of liver biomarker enzymes viz., aspartate transaminase (AST), alanine aminotransferase (ALT) and alkaline phosphatase (ALP), various in vivo biochemical parameters like superoxide dismutase (SOD), catalase (CAT), reduced glutathione (GSH) and extent of lipid peroxidation (LPO) in the liver. Serum bilirubin and blood hemoglobin levels were measured on day 1, 5 and 10. AST, ALT and ALP levels measured on day 5 and 10. Paracetamol and PHZ exhibited significant increase in the level of bilirubin and LPO while levels of other parameters significantly decreased on 10th day. AEMP exhibited significant decrease in the levels of bilirubin and LPO and increase in the levels of other parameters on 10th day. Present study indicates that aqueous extract of Mimosa pudica root shows potential antihyperbilirubinemic activity associated with antioxidant activity in both the models indicating usefulness in various liver disorders.','Bilirubin, Hyperbilirubinemia, Jaundice, Mimosa pudica, Paracetamol, Phenylhydrazine','From the above study it can be concluded that aqueous extract of roots of Mimosa pudica possesses an anti-hyperbilirubinemic activity which may be attributed to the antioxidant activity and alkaloids indicating its usefulness in treatment of liver disorders. ','-','Rupali A. Patil, Pradhnya M. Ghate, Shubhangi H. Pawar, Manisha A. Tayde and Suvarna A. Katti (2023). Anti-hyperbilirubinemic Potential of Aqueous Extract of Mimosa pudica Roots in Wistar Rats. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 15(1): 576-581.'),(6039,'148','Physiological Studies of the Fusarium oxysporum f. sp. lycopersici causing Tomato Fusarium Wilt','Sushila Choudhary, R.K. Bagri, Dilip Kumar Chaurasiya, Vishnu Moond and Rekha Choudhary','Physiological-Studies-of-the-Fusarium-oxysporum-f.-sp.-lycopersici-causing-Tomato-Fusarium-Wilt-Sushila-Choudhary-93.pdf','',1,'Tomato wilt, incited by F. oxysporum f. sp. lycopersiciis an important disease of tomato vegetable and causes economic yield loss for tomato growers. The challenges posed by Fusarium wilt in tomato production are significant, as the disease can lead to reduced yields and pathogen ability to survive in soil and plant debris for extended periods makes management difficult. In present investigation wilt infected tomato roots were collected from Research Farm of RARI, Durgapura and pathogen was isolated, purified and identified with cultural and morphological behavior as per described by Sacc. Synder and Hansen, further confirmed by Indian Type Culture Collection, New Delhi and confirmed as Fusarium oxysporum f. sp. lycopersici. To better understand the physiological activities of the pathogen, we investigated the effects of temperature, hydrogen ion concentration, and relative humidity on its growth and sporulation. We found that the maximum mycelial growth (88.51mm) and excellent sporulation were obtained at 25ºC temperature, while the maximum mycelial weight (272 mg) and excellent sporulation were recorded at a pH of 6.5. Additionally, we found that the growth of mycelial (89.10mm) with abundant sporulation was recorded at 90 percent relative humidity.','Fusarium oxysporum f. sp. lycopersici, Tomato, Physiological activities, Growth and Sporulation','This study examined sporulation and growth of F. oxysporum f. sp. lycopersici under different temperature, pH, and relative humidity conditions. Results showed that the fungus was able to grow at a temperature range of 15-35°C, with maximum growth and sporulation observed at 25-30°C. The fungus showed maximum dry mycelial weight at pH 7.0 and maximum sporulation at pH 6.5. The highest growth and abundant sporulation were seen at 90-100% relative humidity. The results were in agreement with previous studies that also found that the ideal conditions for growth and reproduction of F. oxysporum f. sp. lycopersici were between 25-30°C and slightly acidic pH levels, with high relative humidity. Overall, this study sheds light on the physiological behavior of Fusarium oxysporum f. sp. lycopersici, providing insights that may be useful in developing more effective control measures. ','-','Sushila Choudhary, R.K. Bagri, Dilip Kumar Chaurasiya, Vishnu Moond and Rekha Choudhary (2023). Physiological Studies of the Fusarium oxysporum f. sp. lycopersici causing Tomato Fusarium Wilt. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 15(1): 582-587.'),(6040,'148','Survival and Bio-preservation Studies of Lactic Acid Bacteria in Different Bedding Material','Bharath Kumar N., Suvarna V.C., Girish H.C. and Rashmi S.','Survival and Bio-preservation Studies of Lactic Acid Bacteria in Different Bedding Material-Bharath Kumar-94.pdf','',1,'Lactic acid (LA) bacterial viability on a bedding material is dependent on temperature, humidity, the composition of the material, light and other physical factors. The present study deals with the viability of a potent lactic acid bacterial consortium in different bedding materials and bio-preservation ability of consortium on onion. The sawdust inoculated LA bacterial consortium had the highest population (128.66 × 103 CFU /g) on 45th day and pH of coir pith treated with consortium was found to be the lowest (2.58) on 45th day. The onion bulbs were artificially inoculated with spoilage organisms and LA bacterial consortium using the pinprick method. The onion bulbs treated with consortium had the least weight loss (8.28 %), no spoilage, the least decrease in pH (5.39) and TSS (4.0) at the end of 28th day of storage. Hence, sawdust as the bedding material inoculated with LA bacterial consortium can be used as an effective bio-protectant.','Lactic acid bacteria, Consortium, Bedding material, Pinprick method, pH, TSS','In the present study, the lactic acid bacterial consortium survivability was best in sawdust bedding material and was able to maintain a sufficient population up to 45th day. The pH of the sawdust material decreased moderately in comparison with other bedding material. LA bacterial consortium increased the shelf life of onion for 28 days after the artificial inoculation of spoilage organisms. Further research can be taken up on the probiotic properties of LA bacterial consortium, molecular identification of genes involved in antimicrobial compound production.','-','Bharath Kumar N., Suvarna V.C., Girish H.C. and Rashmi S. (2023). Survival and Bio-preservation Studies of Lactic Acid Bacteria in different Bedding Material. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 15(1): 588-591.'),(6041,'148','Seed Multiplication of Traditional Varieties of Paddy (Oryza sativa L) for their Protection in Sustainable Agriculture','Sabyasachi Patra','Seed-Multiplication-of-Traditional-Varieties-of-Paddy-_Oryza-sativa-L_-for-their-Protection-in-Sustainable-Agriculture-Sabyasachi Patra-95.pdf','',1,'Generally, seed multiplication procedure is followed only for the certification of high yielding, hybrid varieties etc. which are notified under Seed Act 1966. In this regard, we have challenge to protect our traditional varieties of paddy for the development of sustainable agriculture. These varieties\' values are very significant because it’s containing significant genes. Traditional rice varieties can be multiplied as seed in order to acquire high-quality seeds while maintaining the quality of their existing features. Therefore, sixty-two (62) traditional rice varieties of West Bengali were collected and stored at a low temperature in a deep freezer at -10 degrees centigrade at the Crop Research and Seed Multiplication Farm, The University of Burdwan. Seeds were multiplied after six months of storage in order to study yield and other important agronomic traits among the varieties. A wide variation of yield and other valuable agronomic traits like plant height (cm), total number of tillers per hill, number of panicles per hill, number of seeds per panicle, number of chaffy seeds per panicle, duration of 50% flowering (days), 100 seed weight (gram), maturity duration (days), length of panicle (cm), length of flag leaf (cm), grain characters like presence or absence of awning were found among the varieties during Kharif season of 2020 and 2021. These traits may be used in future to choose the parents in a breeding programme to develop high yielding, hybrid varieties.','Paddy, Varieties, Yield & others traits, Seed multiplication, Preservation','The future food supply depends critically on maintaining traditional paddy varieties. It can be possible when researchers, seed growers and farmers will try to apply the seed multiplication procedures for protecting these traditional varieties. With accordance to the yield and other agronomic characters examined, the current study showed great variance among the traditional varieties of paddy. These variance are helpful for evaluating genetic diversity among the varieties.','-','Sabyasachi Patra (2023). Seed Multiplication of Traditional Varieties of Paddy (Oryza sativa L) for their Protection in Sustainable Agriculture. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 15(1): 592-600.'),(6042,'149','Nutrient Uptake and Grain Yield of Chickpea inoculated with Mesorhizobium of Saline Soil','Kamble Geetanjali A., P.S. Wakte, S. D. Jadhao and G.K. Giri','Nutrient Uptake and Grain Yield of Chickpea inoculated with Mesorhizobium of Saline Soil-Kamble Geetanjali A-3.pdf','',1,'Increasing and extending role of different isolate can reduce the chemical fertilizers which is costly one, also imbalanced use of chemical fertilizers resulted in adverse environmental effect and mining of soil nutrients. In view of this constraint the present the research work has been carried out to evaluate the effects of various Mesorhizobium isolates on nodulation and yield of Chickpea, nutrient status and uptake of chickpea (variety JAKI-9218). A field experiment was conducted during Rabi 2017- 18 and 2018-19 at Pulses Research Unit, Dr. Panjabrao Deshmukh Krishi Vidyapeeth, Akola (M.S.). The experiment comprising of thirty-three treatments including uninoculated control of which thirty-two treatments was of Mesorhizobium isolates which obtained from chickpea root nodules from different villages of saline track of Purna river of Vidarbha (M.S.). The field experiment was laid out in Randomized Block Design (RBD) with three replications. The carrier-based culture of Mesorhizobium isolates were inoculated @ 25 g kg-1 of seed. The results of present experiment results revealed that among all the isolates, seed inoculation of Mesorhizobium isolate (ACR-10) recorded higher grain yield (pooled mean;1641 kg/ha) and higher number of nodules i.e. 28.07 nodules plant-1, nodules dry weight (100.94 mg plant-1 and plant dry weight (4.45g plant-1). Among various seed inoculation treatments, available N (209 kg ha-1) was increased significantly with the Mesorhizobium isolate BCR-46 (209 kg ha-1) and higher N content and uptake was recorded by ACR-10 (20.76 kg ha-1). The uptake of nitrogen was influenced significantly with the seed inoculation of various microbial isolates.','Mesorhizobium, Biofertilizers, Chickpea, Nodulation, Yield, N-uptake','From the two years study, it can inferred that, seed inoculation with Mesohizobium ciceri (ACR-10) was found most effective isolate for getting higher yield and yield attributes of Chickpea. The soil nutrient status was slightly changes due to inoculation of various microbial isolates. There is no significant difference in nitrogen concentration of chickpea plants among various microbial inoculants. However, the nitrogen uptake in chickpea was significantly increased with the Mesohizobium ciceri (ACR-10). The significant and positive correlation exists among the yield and nitrogen uptake in chickpea.','-','Kamble Geetanjali A., P.S. Wakte, S.D. Jadhao and G.K. Giri (2023). Nutrient Uptake and Grain Yield of Chickpea inoculated with Mesorhizobium of Saline Soil. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 15(2): 15-19.'),(6043,'148','Gender-related Alterations in Neurochemical Milieu of Suicide: An Analysis in Human Postmortem Brain','Ritabrata Banerjee, Madhusudan Das and Anup Kumar Ghosh','Gender-related-Alterations-in-Neurochemical-Milieu-of-Suicide-An-Analysis-in-Human-Postmortem-Brain-Ritabrata-Banerjee-96.pdf','',1,'Depression is a wide spread, incapacitating psychiatric disorder, with 10-30% of women and 7-15% of men in a population being tremendously affected with this disease at any given time. Depression can lead to suicide, a tragic fatality at its worst. The neurobiology of suicide has been studied by numerous researchers, although the specific molecular and pathophysiologic pathways are still unclear. The goal of the current study was to determine whether there were any changes in the expressions of BDNF, TrkB, NGF, and/or TrkA in the postmortem brains of suicide participants\' hippocampus and amygdala, and whether these changes were connected to gender-specific psychopathologic conditions of suicide. Expression profiles of neurotrophins and their cognate receptors were assayed by Western Blotting. mRNA levels were also measured by RT-PCR. In this study it was found that the protein and mRNA levels of neurotrophins and their receptors were much lower in the hippocampus and amygdala of male suicide subjects, whereas female suicide victims showed decreased levels of same factors only in the hippocampal area. It indicates a possible sex-specific effect in the regulation of BDNF and NGF expressions and important insights into the altered neurochemical milieu of suicide.','Gender, Hippocampus, Amygdala, Suicide, BDNF, NGF, TrkB, TrkA','We need to evaluate other critical factors of brain related to gender-specific depression induction towards suicide and sex-specific antidepressant response to ameliorate suicidal tendency among individuals. ','-','Ritabrata Banerjee, Madhusudan Das and Anup Kumar Ghosh (2023). Gender-related Alterations in Neurochemical Milieu of Suicide: An Analysis in Human Postmortem Brain. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 15(1): 601-609.'),(6044,'148','Effect of Drying Methods on Physical, Proximate and Mineral Content of Ghol (Portulaca oleracea)','Mundhe S.S., More D.R. and Shinde E.M.','Effect-of-Drying-Methods-on-Physical,-Proximate-and-Mineral-Content-of-Ghol-_Portulaca-oleracea_-Mundhe SS-97.pdf','',1,'To assess the effects of various drying techniques, including solar, cabinet, sun, and shade drying, on physical, proximate, and mineral content, ghol (Portulaca oleracea) leaves were used. Hunger is one of today\'s most pressing problems, and using wild edible plants can be one of the solutions. To obtain the best processed form of leaves with the most nutrients, the effect of processing on nutrient retention was evaluated. Effect of drying techniques on the physical characteristics of dehydrated Ghol powder revealed that cabinet drying produced the best results for true density, bulk density, angle of repose, Carr index, and Hausner ratio. In comparison to fresh leaves, the dehydrated Ghol powder had a significantly higher ash, fat, protein, fibre, and carbohydrate content, and a lower moisture content with better retention in cabinet drying method. Results of mineral composition showed that there was significant increase in mineral content of dehydrated Ghol powder as compare to fresh leaves with better retention in cabinet drying. ','Ghol (Portulaca oleracea), drying methods, physical, nutrients','Effect of drying methods on physical properties of dehydrated Ghol powder showed that the best results of true density, bulk density, angle of repose, carr index and hausner ratio were observed in cabinet drying. Effect of drying methods on proximate composition of dehydrated Ghol powder revealed that there was significant increase in ash, fat, protein, fiber and carbohydrate and decrease in moisture content in dehydrated Ghol powder as compare to fresh leaves. The better retention of proximate composition of powder was observed in cabinet drying method. Effect of drying methods on mineral composition of dehydrated Ghol powder revealed that there was significant increase in mineral content of dehydrated Ghol powder as compare to fresh leaves. The better retention of mineral composition of powder was observed in cabinet drying method. The cabinet drying method was best among all drying methods with better retention of physical and nutritional quality parameters with less time require for drying.','-','Mundhe S.S., More D.R. and Shinde E.M. (2023). Effect of Drying Methods on Physical, Proximate and Mineral Content of Ghol (Portulaca oleracea). Biological Forum – An International Journal, 15(1): 610-615.'),(6045,'148','Evaluation of EMS induced Mutant Population using character Associations \r\nand Principle Component Analysis in Rice (Oryza sativa L)\r\n','S.R. Harish Chandar, Pusarla Susmitha, Pushpalatha Ganesh, Aaruru Mounika and Sakthi Anand M.K.','Evaluation-of-EMS-induced-Mutant-Population-using-character-Associations--SR-Harish-Chandar-98.pdf','',1,'A research was carried out to evaluate the genetic diversity and establish relationship among yield and its components in rice cultivar BPT 5204. The field experiment was carried out with 30 M1 derived mutant lines treated at 0.75% EMS along with a control. The results of M2 population showed a strong correlation among days to 50% flowering, number of productive tillers and days to maturity upon grain yield. Genotypic path coefficient analysis revealed that productive tillers, sterile grains per panicle and flag leaf length had positive and direct effect on grain yield per hill. Phenotypic path coefficient analysis indicated that number of tillers per hill, sterile grains per panicle, and days to maturity, panicle length and flag leaf length had positive and direct effect on grain yield per hill. Out of 11, four principal components PC1, PC2, PC3 and PC4 exhibited more than 1.00 Eigen value, and 68.6% cumulative variability was observed among the traits studied. Hierarchical clustering analysis categorized 7 major clusters among the mutant lines of which cluster 1 includes 20 lines with superior grain yield. Furthermore, this study will assist the breeder for developing reliable selection indices in rice mutant population for yield enhancement and selection of better yielding varieties. ','Correlation, mutant population, path coefficient analysis, principal component analysis, Hierarchical clustering analysis','The present study revealed that there were direct positive associations between yield per plant and days to 50% flowering, plant height, panicle length, number of productive tillers, spikelets per panicle, selection for which would be effective to enhance the yield potential. The correlations of grain yield per plant were negative and significant with characters viz., days to 50% flowering and days to maturity. For all traits, the phenotypic correlation is higher than the genetic correlation, which reveals environment has greater effect on the traits which is taken for story. In genotypic path analysis out of ten, three characters had positive and direct effect on grain yield per plant while rest of eight had negative and direct effect on grain yield per plant Principal component analysis explains 4 PCs whose has the cumulative effect of 68.6%. It explains the presence of vital genetic diversity of the mutated lines under study. Hierarchical clustering showed the presence of 7 clusters in the mutated lines, on which first cluster has 7 out of 31 mutated lines and remaining line were distributed among rest of the clusters with cluster 2 having least of only 2 mutated lines. ','-','S.R. Harish Chandar, Pusarla Susmitha, Pushpalatha Ganesh, Aaruru Mounika and Sakthi Anand M.K. (2023). Evaluation of EMS induced Mutant Population using character Associations and Principle Component Analysis in Rice (Oryza sativa L). Biological Forum – An International Journal, 15(1): 616-622.'),(6046,'136','Effect of Pre-sowing Kernel Treatments on Viability, Germination and Seedling Performance of Malabar neem (Melia dubia Cav.)','Ajay, Sandeep Arya, Krishma Nanda, Ishu Redhu and Bhupender','289 Effect of Pre-sowing Kernel Treatments on Viability, Germination and Seedling Performance of Malabar neem _Melia dubia Cav._-Krishma Nanda-289.pdf','',1,'Malabar Neem Tree, also known as Melia dubia Cav. is a plant with considerable medicinal and industrial economic potential. It is a multi-use tree native to tropical and subtropical areas that is mostly grown for its quick growth and adaptability for agroforestry systems. Melia dubia seeds have limited germination owing to their extreme hardness. Its seeds have a tough coat that hampers water penetration and germination accordingly. Seed pre-treatments are one of the factors that can significantly influence germination percentage in seeds of Melia dubia. This study is an effort to study seed treatments for enhancing the germination and seedling growth parameters of Melia dubia in germinator at laboratory condition. Melia dubia kernels were treated with six different pre-sowing treatments. The treatments comprised of [T1: Normal water soaking for 24 hours, T2: GA3 100 ppm for 24 hours, T3: GA3 200 ppm for 24 hours, T4: Thiourea (1%) for 24 hours, T5: KNO3 (0.2%) for 24 hours, T6: Kernel (Control)]. The results revealed that GA3 @ 100 ppm-soaked kernels for 24 hours significantly enhanced the germination. Maximum germination percentage (29.18) and viability percentage (41.68) was recorded in GA3 @ 100 ppm for 24 hours (T2) followed by GA3 @ 200 ppm for 24 hrs (T3). Similar trends were observed in shoot length, root length and seedling dry weight. Hard seed coat of Melia dubia is the reason for less quality planting material available for this species and less adaptation and awareness among farmers. The current study shows pre-sowing kernel treatments have better effects on viability, germination and seedling performance and hence, can be suggested to farmers production of quality seedling. ','Melia dubia, Germination, Kernels treatment, Viability','Native plants like M. dubia should be mass-propagated in a standardised manner for future commercial usage. This study suggests that one of the factors that can greatly affect the germination percentage of M. dubia seeds is seed pre-treatment. Based on present study, it is concluded that among all the pre-sowing treatments, GA3 @ 100 ppm for 24 hours proved better germination and viability per cent in laboratory conditions. Similarly, seedling growth parameters such as shoot length, root length, vigour indices and seedling dry weight were observed higher in GA3 @ 100 ppm for 24 hours. Hence, this pre-treatment could be suggested to farmers for better germination and to raise improved seedling growth of Melia dubia.','-','Ajay, Sandeep Arya, Krishma Nanda, Ishu Redhu and Bhupender (2022). Effect of Pre-sowing Kernel Treatments on Viability, Germination and Seedling Performance of Malabar neem (Melia dubia Cav.). Biological Forum – An International Journal, 14(3): 1690-1693.'),(6047,'148','Histopathological Studies on Effects of Sublethal Concentrations of Lindane on the Hepatic Cells of Clarias batrachus based on Contaminant Concentration and Exposure Time','Sehenaj Sultana','Histopathological Studies on Effects of Sublethal Concentrations of Lindane on the Hepatic Cells of Clarias batrachus based on Contaminant Concentration and Exposu-Sehenaj Sultana-99.pdf','',1,'The study focuses on the overall toxicological impact of lindane; a persistent organic pollutant (POP), a commonly used pesticide (Hexachlorocyclohexane) on the liver tissues of Clarias batrachus. The fishes were exposed to sub-lethal concentrations of 0.2 mg/L, 0.4 mg/L, and 0.6 mg/L for 24 hours and 96 hours to study the comparative effects of the toxicant over different exposure periods. Vacuolations, pyknotic nuclei, infiltration, and fat deposition in hepatic cells were visible in the liver tissues. The concentration of pesticide and exposure period were found to have an increasing effect on the alterations detected. This confirmed the toxic effects of lindane in fish, which may eventually affect humans via the food chain.','Clarias batrachus, lindane, liver, histological studies, pesticides, fishes','The findings imply that when lindane is persistent over time, even a small dose may result in physiological issues in fish. Pesticides shouldn\'t be permitted to enter the nearby wetlands, not even in trace levels. In order to determine the levels that are safe for the aquatic ecosystem and to search for environmentally friendly alternatives, more research is needed to assess the impact of lindane concentrations on the biology of various species. It has become essential to formulate stringent rules against the indiscriminate use of this pesticide. since the pesticide is present in the environment, organochlorine as a persistent organic pollutant may induce toxic effects in fish and other aquatic fauna. Consequently, there is a possibility that they may also reach humans through food chain contamination. It is, therefore a matter of great Public Health significance to regularly monitor the pesticide residues in food and humans to assess the population exposure to this pesticide.','-','Sehenaj Sultana (2023). Histopathological Studies on Effects of Sublethal Concentrations of Lindane on the Hepatic Cells of Clarias batrachus based on Contaminant Concentration and Exposure Time. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 15(1): 623-626.'),(6048,'148','A Survey of Physiotherapist on Assessment of Kinesiophobia among Patients with Chronic Musculoskeletal Pain','Manisha Rathi and Kiran Jeswani','A-Survey-of-Physiotherapist-on-Assessment-of-Kinesiophobia-among-Patients-with-Chronic-Musculoskeletal-Pain-Kiran-Jeswani-100.pdf','',1,'Patients with Chronic Musculoskeletal Pain (CMP) often show Kinesiophobia limiting the execution of exercise. Currently there is a dearth of literature and empirical evidence with respect to Kinesiophobia assessment. Effective rehabilitation will depend on its awareness among physiotherapist and its inclusion. The aim of this study was to understand the perception of physiotherapist on importance of Kinesiophobia assessment and to identify the inclusion by physiotherapist in the treatment of patients with CMP. Descriptive survey design was adapted to conduct this study. Through Non-probabilistic convenience sampling technique data was collected from 563 physiotherapists. The data was analyzed through mean and T-test through Statistical Package for the Social Sciences (SPSS). The values of T-test depicts that there is significant difference between means values (p <.05) for importance of Kinesiophobia assessment. For inclusion variable, the values of T-test depicts that there is no significant difference between means values (p >.05).\r\nThe results depict that physiotherapist perceive Kinesiophobia assessment as important and effective in the treatment of patients with CMP, whereas its inclusion is absent by physiotherapist in the treatment of patients with CMP. Screening for Kinesiophobia should be included in the basic Musculoskeletal assessment in CMP. Kinesiophobia should be taken into consideration when designing and performing rehabilitation programs. A better awareness will lead to better physiotherapy management.\r\n','Kinesiophobia Assessment; Chronic Musculoskeletal Pain; Rehabilitation Program; Physiotherapist; Survey on Kinesiophobia','Results depict that physiotherapist perceive Kinesiophobia assessment as important and effective in treatment of patients with CMP, whereas its inclusion is absent by Physiotherapist in the assessment of patients with CMP. Majority of the Physiotherapist preferred Standardized Screening tools and agreed that refinement is necessary for Kinesiophobia assessment in CMP and also agreed that including Kinesiophobia assessment may lead to a better Rehabilitation program.','-','Manisha Rathi and Kiran Jeswani (2023). A Survey of Physiotherapist on Assessment of Kinesiophobia among Patients with Chronic Musculoskeletal Pain. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 15(1): 627-631.'),(6049,'149','Diversity of Bee Flora and Preparation of Floral Calendar for Scientific Beekeeping by Apiarist in Northern Hills Zone of Chhattisgarh, India','Ankita Singh, M.A. Khan and Sachin Kumar Jaiswal','Diversity-of-Bee-Flora-and-Preparation-of-Floral-Calendar-for-Scientific-Beekeeping-by-Apiarist-in-Northern-Hills-Zone-of-Chhattisgarh,-India-Sachin-Kumar-Jaiswal-4.pdf','',1,'The availability of nectar and pollen for the consumption of bees is mandatory in apiculture. Floral Calendar of a locality guides the beekeepers of Apis cerena indica for efficient bee management to derive maximum benefit from beekeeping. A study was conducted in Surguja, Surajpur and Balrampur districts of Northern Hills Zone of Chhattisgarh during the year 2021 and 2022. Relevant information was gathered from beekeepers through pre - structured schedule. Total 21 plant species such as Mustard, Sunflower, Tomato, Brinjal, Mango, Cucumber, Chilli, Guava, Litchi, Pigeon pea, Tamarind, Citrus, Neem, Maize, Ber, Marigold, Sesame, Bitter gourd, Sponge Gourd, Okra and Karanj were recognized as major honey bee forage sources. Study has showed that region is endowed with varied different flora hence, there is a great potential in the area for apiculture.','Apiculture, Apis cerena indica, Bee flora, Floral calendar, Northern Hills Zone of Chhattisgarh','Result revealed that 21 bee flora were useful to honey bees in different month of calendar year, at Surguja, Surajpur and Balrampur districts of Northern Hills Zone of Chhattisgarh. Bee flora was further classified as pollen and nectar on the basis of secondary data available. The bees are necessarily important component in cropping system by pollinating wide variety of crops. These groups were the provider of pollen, nectar and both pollen and nectar. It can be concluded that Northern Hills Zone of Chhattisgarh can be considered as rich bee floral area, where scientific beekeeping should be undertaken to improve the farmers livelihood. The record of wild bee flora during the study encourages their conservation for sustainable bee keeping in future as well.','-','Ankita Singh, M.A. Khan and Sachin Kumar Jaiswal (2023). Diversity of Bee Flora and Preparation of Floral Calendar for Scientific Beekeeping by Apiarist in Northern Hills Zone of Chhattisgarh, India. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 15(2): 20-23.'),(6050,'149','Study of Correlation and Path Analysis of Seed Cotton Yield and its Attributing Traits in Desi Cotton (Gossypium arboreum L.) under Rainfed condition','Jogender, Omender Sangwan, Sandeep Kumar, Minakshi Jattan, Deepak Kumar, Shreya and Kanika','Study-of-Correlation-and-Path-Analysis-of-Seed-Cotton-Yield-and-its-Attributing-Traits-in-Desi-Cotton-(Gossypium-arboreum-L.)-under-Rainfed-condition-Jogender-5.pdf','',1,'The experimental material comprised of 50 genotypes of Gossypium arboreum was grown during Kharif 2021-22 under rainfed conditions at Research Area of Cotton Section, Department of Genetics and Plant Breeding, CCSHAU, Hisar with the objective to determine correlation coefficient and path analysis. Randomized block design was used with three replication and each genotype was grown in single row of 6 m length with a spacing of 67.5 × 30 cm. These genotypes were evaluated for eight morphological, six physiological and three biochemical traits. The correlation studies revealed that seed cotton yield per plant showed highly significant and positive correlation with plant height, number of bolls per plant, boll weight and number of seeds per boll and also, positive and significant correlation with crude protein content. Furthermore, Path analysis indicated that maximum value for direct effects were observed for number of bolls per plant followed by boll weight, relative water content, seed oil content, proline content, number of monopods per plant. Therefore, selection should be done on the basis of these studied traits for further enhancement of seed cotton yield in future cotton breeding programme.','Correlation, Gossypium arboreum, path, yield','Correlation and path analysis are effective statistical tools for plant breeders as these tools aid in identification of suitable traits to be used as selection criteria for improvement of yield of a crop. Correlation analysis indicated that simultaneous selection based on plant height, number of bolls per plant, boll weight and number of seeds per boll will aid in improvement of seed cotton yield since these traits had significant positive correlation with seed cotton yield per plant. Furthermore, path analysis revealed that number of bolls per plant had positive and high direct effect on seed cotton yield per plant. Therefore, direct selection for this trait will accelerate the improvement of yield in desi cotton.','-','Jogender, Omender Sangwan, Sandeep Kumar, Minakshi Jattan, Deepak Kumar, Shreya and Kanika (2023). Study of Correlation and Path Analysis of Seed Cotton Yield andits Attributing Traits in Desi Cotton (Gossypium arboreum L.) under Rainfed condition. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 15(2): 24-28.'),(6051,'148','Efficacy of Foliar Application of Nutrients and Growth Promoter (NAA) on Yield and Economics of Black Gram (Vigna mungo L.)','Khushboo Kumari, R.P. Manjhi, Ashok Kumar Singh, Sheela Barla and P. Mahapatra','Efficacy-of-Foliar-Application-of-Nutrients-and-Growth-Promoter-(NAA)-on-Yield-and-Economics-of-Black-Gram-(Vigna-mungo-L.)-Khushboo-Kumari-101.pdf','',1,'A field experiment was carried out during kharif 2019 at Research Farm of Agronomy, Birsa Agricultural University, Kanke, Ranchi to assess the effect of foliar application of nutrients and growth promoter (NAA) on yield, yield attributes and economics of Blackgram. The experiment was carried out in RBD (Randomized Block Design) having twelve treatments replicated thrice. Maximum number of nodules per plant (34.78) was recorded in treatment T3 (DAP @ 1% + NAA @40ppm along with RDF). Maximum number of pods per plant (35), number of grains per pod (4.73) and 1000-grain weight (35.39 g) were recorded highest with T3. Maximum grain yield (1331 kg ha-1), higher gross return (` 76,866 ha-1), net return (` 53,919 ha-1) and B:C ratio (2.35) was recorded with application of DAP @ 1% + NAA @ 40ppm along with RDF.','Foliar application, DAP, Urdbean, growth promoter (NAA), yield attributes, economics','Based on the results of the above findings, it may be concluded that foliar application of DAP @ 1% + NAA @ 40ppm at 30DAS and 45 DAS along with RDF (25:50:25::N: P2O5:K2O kg ha-1 ) produced higher yield attributing characters like grain yield as well as straw yield with highest net return and benefit cost ratio making it more productive economically viable for the farmers in Jharkhand.','-','Khushboo Kumari, R.P. Manjhi, Ashok Kumar Singh, Sheela Barla and P. Mahapatra (2023). Efficacy of Foliar Application of Nutrients and Growth Promoter (NAA) on Yield and Economics of Black Gram (Vigna mungo L.). Biological Forum – An International Journal, 15(1): 632-637.'),(6052,'148','Investigation of Nozzle Characteristics for a Hollow Cone Nozzle in Spray Patternator','Mukesh Kumar Choudhary, Mohit Kumar, Gopal Carpenter, Annu Rani, Malkhan Singh Jatav and E.V. Thomas ','Investigation-of-Nozzle-Characteristics-for-a-Hollow-Cone-Nozzle-in-Spray-Patternator-Mukesh-Kumar-Choudhary-102.pdf','',1,'There is evidence that weeds and pest combinedly can decrease crop production by 33% if left untreated. Chemical application is the most effective and efficient method to overcome this issue. The current practice preferred by the farmers leads to excessive application of the chemical to the crop to reduce the loss of production. The excessive application of chemical affects the human health, environment, soil and it also increase the cost of cultivation. Therefore, selection of right nozzle is crucial for ensuring effective and efficient spray application with minimum ill effects. Hollow cone nozzles are widely used in spray applications, and it is important to understand the operational parameters of these nozzles to optimize their design and performance. In this study, the effect of different nozzle pressure (215.74, 245.17, 274.59, 304.01 and 333.45 kPa) and orifice diameters (1, 1.3, 1.6 and 2 mm) on the discharge rate, spray angle, and spray distribution of hollow cone nozzles was investigated using a spray patternator. The nozzle pressure and orifice size had a significant effect on the discharge rate, spray angle. The discharge rate and spray angle varied from 536 to 1500 ml/min and 52 to 90° with variation in pressure and orifices diameter for selected range of variables. The spray pattern of the nozzle at all four orifices diameters was also studied. The study could help in determining the optimum orifice diameter and nozzle pressure for required discharge rate and spray angle.','Spray discharge, Spray distribution, Hollow cone nozzle, Nozzle orifice size','The hollow cone nozzles were evaluated for different combination of pressure and orifice diameter. The result indicated that the orifice diameter and pressure of nozzle affect the operational parameters such as discharge rate, spray angle and spray distribution. As pressure and orifice diameter increases the discharge rate, spray angle and spray swath of liquid spray also increased. The increment in the orifice diameter is more effective to get more discharge rate than pressure. The effect of orifice size of nozzle and pressure on spray distribution showed that there is a direct relationship between the orifice size and the spray distribution. An increase in orifice size resulted in a wider spray distribution, while a decrease in orifice size resulted in a narrower spray distribution. Furthermore, the experiments also showed that an increase in pressure resulted in a narrower spray distribution, while a decrease in pressure resulted in a wider spray distribution. These findings are important for the design and optimization of spray systems used in various applications such as agriculture, industrial processes, and fire suppression. In order to achieve a desired spray distribution, it is crucial to carefully consider the size of the nozzle orifice and the pressure used in the spray system.','-','Mukesh Kumar Choudhary, Mohit Kumar, Gopal Carpenter, Annu Rani, Malkhan Singh Jatav and E.V. Thomas (2023). Investigation of Nozzle Characteristics for a Hollow Cone Nozzle in Spray Patternator. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 15(1): 638-642.'),(6053,'149','Effect of Preharvest Spray on Shelf Life and Quality of Strawberry (Fragaria ananassa)','Bijayanka Baidya, Sukanya Misra and Bijoya Sur','Effect-of-Preharvest-Spray-on-Shelf-Life-and-Quality-of-Strawberry-_Fragaria-ananassa_-Sukanya-Misra-6.pdf','',1,'Strawberry (Fragaria ananassa), belongs to the family Rosaceae has basic Chromosome no. (2n) = 56 is generally originated from France, in the 1750s. It is an important fruit crop of India and its commercial production is possible in temperate and sub-tropical areas of the country including the Terai region of West Bengal. An experiment was conducted to evaluate the effect of pre harvests spray on shelf life of fruit and to study the shelf life and quality of the fruit as influenced by pre-harvest spray. Total number of treatment was five and replication was also five and the experimental design was RBD. Parameters like length of fruit, breadth of fruit, fruit weight, fruit colour, penetration force, physiological loss in weight and biochemical parameters like Total soluble solid (ºBrix), Total sugar (%), Reducing sugar (%), Titratable acidity (%), Ascorbic acid content (mg/100g of pulp). The challenge of this study is not only increasing shelf life of fruits and but also discovering the treatment which maintain quality after harvest as well as increased shelf life. Here the T5 CaCl2 spray treatment performed best in terms of least physiological weight loss, most total soluble solid, lowering sugar, and total sugar. Fruits from T5 were also discovered to have texture retention after 3 days of storage and to have lower acidity.','Shelf life, Pre harvest spray, Biochemical parameter, RBC design, Quality of fruit','From this experiment we can conclude that treatment T5 CaCl2 spray showed the best result with respect to minimum loss in physiological weight, maximum total soluble solid, reducing sugar and total sugar. Fruits from T5 also found to retain its texture after 3 days of storage and the fruit were less acidity. Vit-C content in T5 was marginally less than other CaCl2 treated fruits. Considering all parameters under study it is further concluded that T2 was second best treatment with respect to less physiological loss in weight, better texture analyzer (60.768 kPa), total sugar as well as highest Vit-C content (57.9864).','-','Bijayanka Baidya, Sukanya Misra and Bijoya Sur (2023). Effect of Preharvest Spray on Shelf Life and Quality of Strawberry (Fragaria ananassa). Biological Forum – An International Journal, 15(2): 29-34.'),(6054,'148','Influence of Attractants on Bees Pollination and Enhancing the Yield of Mustard','P.K. Jatav, Ashok S. Yadav, S. Balpande and Prince Mahore','Influence-of-Attractants-on-Bees-Pollination-and-Enhancing-the-Yield-of-Mustard-P.K.-Jatav-103.pdf','',1,'However, numerous factors such as pests and diseases, pesticides, hazards, poor nutrition, poor management and changes in environmental conditions reduce the number of bee colonies, all of which directly or indirectly show an effect on the pollination of agricultural crops, for better pollination and increasing pollination efficiency, we use various types of bee attractants. Among the bee attractants used in mustard crop to evaluated the effect on qualitative and quantitative parameters viz., number of siliquae (pod/plant), siliquae length, number of seeds (seeds/siliquae and seeds/plant), test weight (g/1000 seeds) and total seed yield; treatment Bee-Q @ 1.25 per cent with open pollination was found superior in above parameters. The differences in pollination without insect and open pollination along with bee attractants were significant about almost all aspect. Spraying of bee attractants especially Bee-Q, Jaggery gave higher yield of mustard seed in terms of both quality and quantity when compare to crop caged without bees and open pollination without spraying.','Attractants, siliquae, pollination, honeybee, Bee-Q, Jaggery, mustard, qualitative and quantitative','Among the all the indigenous food attractants Bee-Q @ 1.25% solution attracted maximum number of bees followed by Jaggery @ 10% and Sugar solution @ 10%. Honey bee species showed better activity during 1st day after spraying at 10 and 50 per cent flowering but the better results in case of number of siliquae (pod/plant), siliquae length, number of seeds (seeds/siliquae and seeds/plant), test weight (g/1000 seeds) and total seed yield were observed in Bee-Q @ 1.25 per cent treated open pollinated crop plot. The differences in pollination without insect and open pollination along with bee attractants were significant with regard to almost all aspect. Spraying of bee attractants especially Bee-Q, Jaggery Coriander and Sugar solution gave higher yield of mustard seed in terms of both quality and quantity when compare to crop caged without bees and also open pollination without spraying.','-','P.K. Jatav, Ashok S. Yadav, S. Balpande and Prince Mahore (2023). Influence of Attractants on Bees Pollination and Enhancing the Yield of Mustard. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 15(1): 643-646.'),(6055,'149','Isolation, Screening, Characterization, and Identification of Alkaline Protease Producing Bacteria from the Dairy Industrial Soil','Merlin Jeena Kumari M. and Sasi Premila J.M.','Isolation,-Screening,-Characterization,-and-Identification-of-Alkaline-Protease-Producing-Bacteria-from-the-Dairy-Industrial-Soil-Merlin-Jeena-Kumari-M-7.pdf','',1,'The purpose of the present study was to isolate, screen and identify protease producing bacteria from two dairy industry soil located in Sankarankoil, Tenkasi district, Tamilnadu, India-627761. The samples are collected and stored based on the microbial standard protocol. Serial dilution and skim agar media are followed for the primary screening to isolate protease producing bacteria. Among twenty isolated microbial cultures two significant organism JKSP1 and MJSP2 are selected based on the highest protease activity zone. The morphological and biochemical tests reveal the isolated species was found to be Bacillus species. Molecular identification was also carried out for the isolated species using 16s RNA sequencing and data are submitted to the gene bank with the accession number (OK605054.1) and (ON994262.1). The BLAST similarity shows that isolate JKSP1 is 100% homologous to Bacillus sp strain (OQ071600.1) and MJSP2 100% homologous to Bacillus subtilis (ON994262.1). Additionally, optimizing protease production on a large scale remains a difficult task. Hence this study mainly focused on enzyme production optimization and characterization with respect to pH, temperature, incubation time and different substrates like metal iron, carbon, nitrogen sources and agro-bases. The optimization results indicate that; the isolated organism MJSP2 shows promising production of enzymes at minimum resources and physical parameters. The overall outcome concluded MJSP2 strains show efficient proteolysis activity and can be considered an effective protease producer for commercial value.','Bacteria, Bacillus sp, Bacillus subtilis, Protease, Soil, Optimization','The present study was focused on isolating, screening, and identification of protease producing bacteria from dairy industry soil samples. Among 20 isolated samples, two bacterial isolates showed potent protease activity on skim milk agar plate assay. The bacterial isolates were then further screened for alkaline protease production using the submerged fermentation method and the isolated MJSP2 was observed to have a maximum protease enzyme. Based on morphological and biochemical characteristics the strain was identified as Bacillus species which was later identified as Bacillus sp strain and Bacillus subtilis species using 16S rRNA sequencing techniques. ','-','Merlin Jeena Kumari M. and Sasi Premila J.M. (2023). Isolation, Screening, Characterization, and Identification of Alkaline Protease Producing Bacteria from the Dairy Industrial Soil. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 15(2): 35-41.'),(6056,'149','Synthesis and Anticonvulsant Activity of 3,5-Bis[(5’-Substituted Phenyl) 1,3,4-Oxadiazole] 1,4-Dihydropyridine','Honde Bharat S., Kadm Sai V., Shelke Pratiksha S., Chimankar Ayushi D., Kale Rutuja B. and Kanhe Nandini K.\r\n','Synthesis and Anticonvulsant Activity of 3,5-Bis[_5’-Substituted Phenyl_ 1,3,4-Oxadiazole] 1,4-Dihydropyridine-Honde Bharat Shivaji-8.pdf','',1,'The reveals that the 1.4-Dihydro Pyridine and 1’,3’,4’-oxadiazole are pharmacologically more active units. The reaction of substituted aromatic or benzene substituted aldehydes with ethyl acetoacetate ammonia formation of diethyl 2, 6-dimethyl-4-(substituted Phenyl)1,4-dihydropyridine 3,5-dicarboxylate (I), which on reaction with hydrazine hydrate formation of 2, 6-dimethyl-4-(substituted Phenyl)1,4-dihydropyridine 3,5-dicarbohydrazide (II), added with substituted benzoic acid in presence of phosphorous oxychloride final formation of 2, 6-dimethyl-4-(substituted Phenyl)1,4-dihydropyridine 3,5-[bis-(5’-substituted 1’,3’,4’-oxadiazole)] 1,4-dihydropyridine (3a-3l). Purity was checked by TLC and chemical structure of synthesized derivatives were elucidated by their IR, Proton NMR, MS analysis data. According to dose 30 mg/ml concentration as compared to Phenytoin 5mg/ml standard drug. The synthesized derivatives were screened for anticonvulsant activity.','1,4-dihydropyridine, Oxadiazole, IR, NMR, MS, Anticonvlsant','After 30 mins derivatives 3b, 3i, 3k showed better activity. After 60 mins. Derivatives 3a, 3b, 3f showed better activity. After 90 mins. Derivatives 3f, 3j, 3k showed better activity. After 120 mins. Derivatives 3f, 3g, 3k showed better activity. We’re as the remaining derivatives exhibited moderate activity. From the anticonvulsant data of the synthesized derivatives, we can conclude that the derivatives 3a, 3f and 3k have exhibited excellent anticonvulsant activity in MES model and hold promise as anticonvulsant agents after further development.','-','Honde Bharat S., Kadm Sai V., Shelke Pratiksha S., Chimankar Ayushi D., Kale Rutuja B. and Kanhe Nandini K. (2023). Synthesis and Anticonvulsant Activity of 3,5-Bis[(5’-Substituted Phenyl) 1,3,4-Oxadiazole] 1,4-Dihydropyridine. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 15(2): 42-45.'),(6057,'149','A Comparative Analysis of Marketing Efficiency of Vegetables in Organized Collection Centres and Traditional Channels with Respect to Select Vegetables in Ranga Reddy District of Telangana','Kothapalli Tarun Chowdary, D. Srinivasa Reddy, P. Radhika, K. Supriya and Dinesh T.M.','A-Comparative-Analysis-of-Marketing-Efficiency-of-Vegetables-Kothapalli Tarun Chowdary-9.pdf','',1,'Though, India is the leading producer of vegetables, producer’s share in consumer rupee was very less because of number of intermediaries involved in the marketing channel. In order to provide remunerative price to farmers, there is a need to identify an alternative marketing channel with increased marketing efficiency. Hence, this study was proposed to identify the best alternative marketing channel in comparison with traditional marketing channel. Ex-post facto research design has been adopted for the study. In Telangana, Ranga Reddy district, 60 farmers supplying to organized retail collection centers and 60 farmers selling through traditional marketing channels; thus, a total of 120 farmers have been selected as respondents for the study. The major vegetables cultivated in Ranga Reddy district were selected which includes Tomato, Brinjal and Cluster beans respectively. With the help of a pre-tested questionnaire, the data was gathered from the respondents and tabulated and analyzed with suitable statistical measures. From the findings, it was understood that the marketing efficiency for organized retail collection centre was higher than traditional marketing channel, as there were no middlemen involved in the marketing of produce. In addition to this, there is a significant different between the traditional marketing channel and the organized retail collection centre as selling produce in organized retail collection centre reduces the risk involved in selling of produce and the farmers were able to sell their produce within 1 hour of harvest at their nearest collection centre. Despite of long distance, farmers who had more land preferred to sell their produce in traditional market than organized retail collection centre. While, as a student researcher, time and money constraints limited the selection of vegetables (only three) and organized collection centres of Ranga Reddy district. Hence, an in-depth study on the status of organized collection centres in improving the marketing efficiency and livelihood of farmers in Telangana can be studied.','Organized retail collection centre, Traditional marketing channel, Supply chain management, Vegetable marketing, Marketing efficiency, Producer’s share','Based on the findings of the study, it can be concluded that, there is a significant different between the traditional marketing channel and the organized retail collection centre. The marketing efficiency for organized retail collection centre was higher than traditional marketing channel, as there were no middlemen involved in the marketing of produce. In addition to this, selling produce in organized retail collection centre reduces the risk involved in selling of produce and the farmers were able to sell their produce within 1 hour of harvest at their nearest collection centre. Despite of long distance, farmers who had more land preferred to sell their produce in traditional market than organized retail collection centre. ','-','Kothapalli Tarun Chowdary, D. Srinivasa Reddy, P. Radhika, K. Supriya and Dinesh T.M. (2023). A Comparative Analysis of Marketing Efficiency of Vegetables in Organized Collection Centres and Traditional Channels with Respect to Select Vegetables in Ranga Reddy District of Telangana. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 15(2): 46-51.'),(6058,'149','Comparative Histo-morphometric Study of Mammary Gland in Ewes and She Goat in their Lactating and Non-lactating Stage','Shilpa S. Modekar','Comparative-Histo-morphometric-Study-of-Mammary-Gland-in-Ewes-and-She-Goat-in-their-Lactating-and-Non-lactating-Stage-Shilpa-S.Modekar-10.pdf','',1,'The present work deals with the quantitative histological morpho-metric description of the mammary glands of ewes and she goat during their lactating and non lactating stage. During comparative analysis, significant differences was recorded during statistical analysis between the values of all parameters as, in the diameter of lobules, number of alveoli per lobule, diameter of alveoli, height and width of epithelial cells lining the alveoli and diameter of alveolar lumen in dry and lactating stage of mammary glands in both sheep as well as goat. The amount of cytoplasm decreased from lactating to non-lactating stage measured related to the mammary glands the small ruminants. during their lactating and non lactating stage There was presence of active alveoli as well as resting alveoli in lactating stage, whereas in dry stage, it was noticed that in the alveolar lumen most of the alveoli showed degenerative changes and de-squamated cells of both the small ruminants. Similarly, the nuclei of the epithelium, lining the alveoli were large and vesicular at the lactation stage whereas in non-lactating stage, nuclei were small in size, in both the small ruminants. ','Mammary gland, Ewes, She goat, Histomorpho-metry','The udder in ewe and she goat composed of similar basic histological structure. The histo-architecture of mammary gland of small ruminants showed connective tissue stroma which divided the parenchyma into visible lobes and lobules. Lobules contained several alveoli with their intra-lobular duct system. Each alveolus was separated by inter-alveolar connective tissue. However, no distinct lobulations were seen in the non-lactating mammary gland. Lobes were separated inter-lobar connective tissue. Alveoli were lined by single layer of epithelium. Myo-epithelial cells were present, in between the epithelium and basement membrane. The concentration of the elastic and reticular fibers increased in lactating mammary glands which were less in goat as compared to sheep. In non-lactating stage in both goat as well as sheep the fibro-architectures of the capsule resembled to that of lactating goats as well as sheep. The elastic fibers were thicker in non-lactating goats. \r\nA significant change was recorded in the diameter of lobules, number of alveoli per lobule, diameter of alveoli, height and width of epithelial cells lining the alveoli and diameter of alveolar lumen in dry and lactating stage of mammary gland in both sheep as well as goat. Active alveoli and resting alveoli were noticed in lactating stage, whereas in dry stage most of the alveoli showed degenerative changes and desquamated cells in the alveolar lumen. The amount of cytoplasm decreased from lactating to non-lactating stage. The nuclei of the epithelium, lining the alveoli were large and vesicular at the lactation stage in both the small ruminants whereas in non-lactating stage, nuclei were small in size. Hence this comparative histo-morphometric study, revealed statistically significant difference in the length of lobule, breadth of lobule, number of alveoli per lobule, alveoli size, alveolar luminal diameter, nucleus diameter, thickness of interalveolar septa and thickness of interlobular septa between lactating and non-lactating animals.\r\n','-','Comparative Histo-morphometric Study of Mammary Gland in Ewes and She Goat in their Lactating and Non-lactating Stage. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 15(2): 52-56.'),(6059,'149','Evaluation of different Diet for Rearing Corcyra cephalonica Stainton (Lepidoptera: Pyralidae)','M. Soniya Devi, Usha, V.K. Mishra and R. Yonzone','Evaluation-of-different-Diet-for-Rearing-Corcyra-cephalonica-Stainton-(Lepidoptera-Pyralidae)-R.-Yonzone-11.pdf','',1,'Corcyra cephalonica are important polyphagous storage pest which are used as a laboratory host for rearing as well as for mass production of various parasitoids and predators. For invitro and invivo studies of various biocontrol agents, mass rearing is one of an important aspects and C. cephalonica play an important role in mass production of the bioagents. However the population of C. cephalonica also needs to be maintain in-vitro for the desired production of the bioagents. Therefore, the present studies aims to evaluate performance of C. cephalonica in four different stored grains diet i.e., rice, wheat, maize and sorghum for best rearing. Among the tested diets, the sorghum based diet provided minimum larval period, maximum larval weight, minimum pupal period, maximum pupal period, shorter developmental period and maximum adult longevity and proved to be the best for rearing of Corcyra. Also the higher fecundity was observed in sorghum which was observed to be at par with maize diet. Therefore considering the over all superior performance, sorghum based diet can be utilized for successful rearing of C. cephalonica.','Corcyra cephalonica, rearing, diet, sorghum, fecundity','Considering the various parameters taken under study for rearing of C. cephalonica in rice, wheat, maize and sorghum diet, it was evident that the insect when reared in sorghum performed superior over the other diets. The over all growth, development, and performance was observed better in sorghum diet. Therefore, it can be concluded that the sorghum being an efficient diet can be used for the mass production of the eggs of C. cephalonica as compared to the other tested diets.','-','M. Soniya Devi, Usha, V.K. Mishra and R. Yonzone (2023). Evaluation of different Diet for Rearing Corcyra cephalonica Stainton (Lepidoptera: Pyralidae). Biological Forum – An International Journal, 15(2): 57-59.'),(6060,'149','Evaluation of Bio Agents, de Oiled Cakes and new Generation Fungicides to control of Fusarium oxysporum Schlecht in vitro','Abhinav, R.N. Bunker, Nitisha Gahlot, Kamlesh Charpota and N.L. Meena','Evaluation-of-Bio-Agents,-de-Oiled-Cakes-and-new-Generation-Fungicides-to-control-of-Fusarium-oxysporum-Schlecht-in-vitro-Abhinav-12.pdf','',1,'The present study was carried out to investigate the efficacy of microbial antagonist’s bio-agents, de oiled cakes and fungicides under in vitro study against Fusarium oxysporum Schlecht caused wilt of Isabgol. Study results revealed that among all fungicides Bavistin 50WP recorded maximum inhibition percent of mycelium growth of test pathogen Fusarium oxysporum Schlecht at all four concentrations followed by Nativo-75WP. All fungicides were tested by poisoned food technique. Out of four bio-control agents Trichodrma viride showed highest mycelia growth inhibition (59.64%) followed by T. harzianum (58.25%). Among four de oiled cake neem cake showed highest mycelia growth inhibition (67.78%) followed by Groundnut cake (53.33%) found highly effective to control the mycelia growth of Fusarium oxysporum Schlecht. Application of bio control agents and de oiled cake will be an alternative to synthetic chemicals to control wilt of isabgol. ','Bio-control agents, Carbendazim 50 WP, De oiled cakes, Fusarium oxysporum Schlecht, Isabgol','From the findings it is concluded by in vitro study application of bio control agents and de oiled cake will be significantly promising and applicable as an alternative to synthetic chemicals and low efficiency and harmful methods for control of Fusarium wilt disease of Isabgol caused by Fusarium oxysporum Schlecht. Microorganisms that have fast growth in the rhizosphere are best for antagonism of pathogen. ','-','Abhinav, R.N. Bunker, Nitisha Gahlot, Kamlesh Charpota and N.L. Meena (2023). Evaluation of Bio Agents, de Oiled Cakes and new Generation Fungicides to control of Fusarium oxysporum Schlecht in vitro. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 15(2): 60-65.'),(6061,'149','Genotypic and Phenotypic Characterization of MDR Salmonella typhimurium Isolated from various Sources in Maharashtra State','Rahul Prabhu Gaikwad, Madhuri A. Channawar, Deepak S. Mohale, Nitin I. Kochar and Anil V. Chandewar\r\n','Genotypic-and-Phenotypic-Characterization-of-MDR-Salmonella-typhimurium-Isolated-From-various-Sources-in-Maharashtra-State-Rahul-Prabhu-Gaikwad-13.pdf','',1,'Salmonella infections are still a paramount public health concern around the world. Humans can become infected with Salmonella by being exposed to it directly or indirectly through poultry meat, water, or soil. Even after having antibiotics to conquer it, multidrug resistance which makes it difficult to employ the treatments that are accessible. Hence, a comprehensive policy framework and integrative approach are needed for the prevention, control, and eradication of multidrug resistance in Salmonella typhimurium. The main goal of this study was to determine the ubiquity of multidrug resistance in Salmonella Typhimurium isolates from Maharashtra state. This study will define source and nature of development multidrug resistance in Salmonella typhimurium. This in vitro study was carried out at bacteriology laboratory of PWCOP in New Yavatmal. Samples were collected from various sources in the five regions of Maharashtra State. Various morphological, biochemical, cultural, and molecular approaches were used to obtain and confirm Salmonella typhimurium isolates. Antibiotic susceptibility testing of Salmonella typhimurium isolates was carried out using disk diffusion method. Total 300 samples were collected out of which 69 (23%) were positive for Salmonella spp. In addition, 48 (69.56 percent) of the 69 Salmonella spp. isolates tested positive for Salmonella typhimurium. The prevalence rate for Salmonella typhimurium in the samples from the three sources was Chicken meat: 27 (56.25%), roadside water: 15 (31.25%), and forroadside Soil: 6 (12.5%). Likewise prevalence of Salmonella typhimurium was found as Yavatmal: 9(18.75%), Parbhani: 7 (14.58%), Mumbai: 14 (29.16%) Ahmednagar: 7 (14.58%) and Pune were 11 (22.91%). Of total isolates studied (29.16%) were found to be multidrug resistant (MDR). Out of 14 MDR Salmonella typhimurium isolates examined, 12 (85.71%) had the most resistance to Chloramphenicol, 9 (64.28%) had the higher side resistance to Amoxicillin, and the lower resistance to Nalidixic acid. Further molecular confirmation of these MDR Salmonella typhimurium isolates was done with 16s rRNA gene amplification with universal primers. A total of 14 PCR showed the presence of blaTEM, blaCTX-M, blaSHV and blaOXA, gene was determined in confirmed isolates. The presence of multidrug resistance in Salmonella typhimurium isolates revealed that unclean chicken meat contaminated water and soil posed a significant risk of human infection. The current study shows that MDR Salmonella typhimurium is common in Maharashtra, and it is recommended that antibiotics be used ethically and appropriately.','Salmonella typhimurium, Multidrug resistance, Prevalence, chicken meat, Molecular characterization','The presence of multidrug resistance in Salmonella typhimurium isolates suggested that there is noticeable risk of infections to humans from unhygienic chicken meat also from roadside contaminated water and soil. From the present study it is clear that occurrence of MDR Salmonella typhimurium are high in the Maharashtra region and suggested to use the antibiotics ethically and appropriately. ','-','Rahul Prabhu Gaikwad, Madhuri A. Channawar, Deepak S. Mohale, Nitin I. Kochar and Anil V. Chandewar (2023). Genotypic and Phenotypic Characterization of MDR Salmonella typhimurium Isolated From various Sources in Maharashtra State. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 15(2): 66-72.'),(6062,'149','Effect of NPK and Biofertilizers on Growth and Yield of Chilli \r\n(Capsicum annuum L.)\r\n','Hamendra Sikarwar, Mukesh Kumar Seetpal, Nivedita Singh and Paramita Deb','Effect-of-NPK-and-Biofertilizers-on-Growth-and-Yield-of-Chilli--Mukesh-Kumar-Seetpal-14.pdf','',1,'The present investigation entitled “Effect of NPK and biofertilizers on growth and yield of chilli (Capsicum annuum L.)” was carried out at the Research Area, ITM University, Gwalior (M.P.) Chilli (Capsicum annuum L.) belongs to family Solanaceae and it is originated in Tropical America. A large number of constraints limit the production of chilli which includes low yielding ability of genetic material, imbalanced supply of nutrients and pest and diseases. Biofertilizers are inputs containing microorganisms which are capable of mobilizing nutritive elements from non-usable form to usable form through biological process. These natural fertilizers help to enhance productivity by biological nitrogen fixation or solubilization of insoluble phosphate or producing hormones, vitamins and other growth factors required for plant growth. The experiment was laid out in the Randomized Block Design with three replications. Each replication was comprised of seven treatments (viz., T1 – Control (100 % RDF), T2 – 100 % RDF + FYM + PSB, T3 – 75 % RDF + FYM + PSB, T4 – 100 % RDF + FYM + Azotobacter, T5 – 75 % RDF + FYM + Azotobacter, T6 – 100 % RDF + FYM + PSB + Azotobacter and T7 – 75 % RDF + FYM + PSB + Azotobacter) were applied in chilli. Result reported that the FYM and biofertilizers with different dose of NPK were significantly influenced the all the growth parameters viz plant height (cm), number of branches per plant, days to first flowering and days to 50 % flowering and yield parameters viz number of fruits per plant, fruit length (cm), fruit diameter(mm), number of fruits per plant, number of seed per fruit, average fruit weight (g), fruit yield per plant (g), fruit yield per plot (kg) fruit yield per hectare (q) etc. Among all the treatment T6 (100 % RDF + FYM + PSB + Azotobacter) was found the best treatment and it gave the maximum growth parameters yield parameters of chilli whereas the minimum growth parameters and yield parameters were recorded in treatment T1 (Control -100 % RDF). The maximum cost of cultivation, gross returns, net returns and B:C ratio was recorded in treatment T6 (100 % RDF + FYM + PSB + Azotobacter), 47 whereas the minimum cost of cultivation, gross returns, net returns and B:C ratio was observed in treatment T1 (Control -100 % RDF).','Biofertilizers, Chilli, Growth, Yield, Treatment','It can be concluded from the result that the FYM and biofertilizers with different dose of NPK were significantly influenced the growth and yield of chilli and the treatment T6 (100 % RDF + FYM + PSB + Azotobacter) was found the best treatment among all the treatments and it gave the maximum growth, yield and economic parameters, whereas the minimum growth, yield and economic parameters were recorded in treatment T1 (Control-100 % RDF). On the basis of the result obtained after completion of present investigation we can also say that using integrated farming system not only increase the production but reduce the consumption of chemical fertilizer and may also improve the soil health. But the further research work is needed to confirm the findings of the present investigation.','-','Hamendra Sikarwar, Mukesh Kumar Seetpal, Nivedita Singh and Paramita Deb (2023). Effect of NPK and Biofertilizers on Growth and Yield of Chilli (Capsicum annuum L.). Biological Forum – An International Journal, 15(2): 73-77.'),(6063,'125','Effect of Supplementation of Moringa oleifera Leaves Powder on Blood Serum Profile of Giriraja Poultry Birds','K.D. Rathod, S.D. Chavan, R.R. Shelke, S.R. Shegokar, K.U. Bidwe, S.J. Manwar, S.R. Munnarwar, R. D. Dhage, S.P. Nage and P.A. Kahate','274-Effect-of-Supplementation-of-Moringa-oleifera-Leaves-Powder-on-Blood-Serum-Profile-of-Giriraja-Poultry-Birds-K.D.pdf','',1,'The current work “Supplementation of Moringa oleifera Leaves Powder on Blood Serum Profile of Giriraja Poultry” is being done in the Poultry Unit, Department of Poultry Science, PGIVAS, MAFSU and under the Department A.H. & D.S., Dr. P.D.K.V., Akola to check the effect of the addition of Moringa leaves a powder on the blood profile of Giriraja Chicken Birds. In the present study 240 number day chicks are divided into eight triple treatments, each of which has ten birds. The treatments were (T1) control with no supplementation, (T2) standard ration plus 0.4% MOLP, (T3) standard ration plus 0.6% MOLP, (T4) standard ration plus 0.8% MOLP, (T5) standard ration plus scavenging, (T6) standard ration plus 0.4% MOLP with scavenging, (T7) standard ration plus 0.6% MOLP with scavenging, (T8) standard ration plus 0.8% MOLP with scavenging. Data from Giriraja chicken blood serum profile showed that the highest levels of total protein T6 (4.61), albumin T6 (1.72), glucose T6 (128.01), Cholesterol T1 (146.00), Triglyceride T1 (83.61), respectively.','Giriraja, Moringa oleifera leaves powder','The present study concluded that the highest total total protein T6 (4.61), albumin T6 (1.72), glucose T6 (128.01) were found in 0.4% of MOLP in the diet without a decrease in Cholesterol T6 (136.00) and Triglyceride T6 (77.01)), respectively.','-','K.D. Rathod, S.D. Chavan, R.R. Shelke, S.R. Shegokar, K.U. Bidwe, S.J. Manwar, S.R. Munnarwar, R. D. Dhage, S.P. Nage, P.A. Kahate (2022). Effect of Supplementation of Moringa oleifera Leaves Powder on Blood Serum Profile of Giriraja Poultry Birds. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 14(2): 1591-1594.'),(6064,'149','Cytotoxicity and Cell Cycle Arresting Potential of Ficus racemosa leaves','R. Rachael Evangeline and Betty Daniel','Cytotoxicity-and-Cell-Cycle-Arresting-Potential-of-Ficus-racemosa-leaves-Betty-Daniel-15.pdf','',1,'Millions of individuals worldwide are affected by the serious health problem of cancer. The challenges faced during the treatment that includes chemotherapy and radiotherapy, are known to have adverse health effects. Plants have potential anticancer compounds that can be used in cancer treatment. Phytochemicals have been proved to act as cytotoxic agents against cancerous cell types and prevent oxidative damage. This intends to evaluate the anticancer activities of the leaf extracts obtained from Ficus racemosa against the carcinogenic HeLa cells. The study analyses three separate extracts (water, ethanol, and ethyl acetate) that were prepared from the leaves of Ficus racemose. Further, evaluating for phytochemical screening, cytotoxic assay, cell cycle analysis assay, and antioxidant assay. The ethyl acetate extract shows significant cytotoxic effects on HeLa cell lines with an IC50 of 80 g/ml. The cell cycle studies revealed that the ethyl acetate extract conferred a minimum proportion of viable HeLa cells at G0/G1 at a concentration of 160 µg/ml. However, the DPPH antioxidant assay, showed that the ethanol extract had highest significance with an IC50 of 30.19 µg/ml. The GC-MS analysis of the ethyl acetate extract revealed the presence of useful phytochemicals, such like pentadecanoic acid and lupeol. These compounds have already shown to lower oxidative stress and support metabolism. The study carried out contributes new light on the Ficus racemosa leaves\' potential medicinal properties, but more thorough study is needed to fully understand the compound\'s pharmacokinetic characteristics.','Cancer, Ficus racemosa, phytochemicals, antioxidant, cytotoxic','The study shows that ethyl acetate extracts of leaves of Ficus racemosa confer cytotoxicity against HeLa cell lines and can be used in therapeutic applications against cancer. However comprehensive studies need to be done to check for its feasibility, usage, and applicability in the drug discovery process.','-','R. Rachael Evangeline and Betty Daniel (2023). Cytotoxicity and Cell Cycle Arresting Potential of Ficus racemosa leaves. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 15(2): 78-85.'),(6065,'149','DNA Fingerprinting of Sugarcane Genotypes/Varieties for Molecular Evidence and Protection','Niraj Nath Tiwari, Sujeet Pratap Singh, Sachin Kashyap and Arvind Kumar','DNA-Fingerprinting-of-Sugarcane-Genotypes-Varieties-for-Molecular-Evidence-and-Protection-Niraj-Nath-Tiwari-16.pdf','',1,'DNA fingerprint databases are vital and imperative tools for plant molecular research because they provide potent information for crop breeding, variety quality control, variety right protection, and molecular marker-assisted breeding. Morphological descriptors may also use for physical fingerprinting but the reduced number of descriptors makes it difficult to identify the large number of varieties. DNA fingerprinting of seventeen sugarcane (Saccharum spp.) genotypes were constructed with three SSR primers were found polymorphic and gave clear bands. Sugarcane genotypes of both commercial hybrids and genetic stocks commonly used as parents in breeding programme were included in the study. A total of 157 markers were amplified, of which 68.0% were polymorphic with an average of ~23% polymorphic bands per primer. Number of bands produced by various primers was ranged from 4 to 12 with an average of 5.3 fragments per primer. DNA fragments size were ranged between 147 to 1474 bp. Analyses of molecular profiles generated by SSR markers revealed the unique bands specific for genotypes. The all used sugarcane genotypes/varieties were identified by either presence or absence of specific DNA fragments. Primers used in this experiment were able to distinguish all genotypes of sugarcane, demonstrating the ability of the methodology to determine unique genetic profiles. The identified unique markers could be useful for identification, utilization and management of the genotypes.','Sugarcane, DNA Fingerprinting, Genotypes, Varieties, SSR Markers','SSR based DNA fingerprinting was used to develop 157 markers for genotypes/varieties identification and fingerprint construction. The conclusion of this study provides a useful approach for genotyping, classifying, and identifying genotypes/varieties and resources in sugarcane breeding. The identified unique markers could be useful for identification, utilization and management of the genotypes. ','-','Niraj Nath Tiwari, Sujeet Pratap Singh, Sachin Kashyap and Arvind Kumar (2023). DNA Fingerprinting of Sugarcane Genotypes/verities for Molecular Evidence and Protection. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 15(2): 86-88.'),(6066,'149','A Survey of Major Threats and Management Guidelines for Conservation to Wetlands Distributed among Ujani Backwater, Maharashtra, India','Digvijay S. Kumbhar and Dnyandeo K. Mhaske','A-Survey-of-Major-Threats-and-Management-Guidelines-for-Conservation-to-Wetlands-Distributed-Among-Ujani-Backwater,-Maharashtra,-India-Digvijay-S.-Kumbhar-17.pdf','',1,'Wetlands are unique, productive ecosystems where two major ecosystems viz., terrestrial and aquatic habitats meet. Wetlands are the “Biological supermarkets”, as they accommodate vast biodiversity with innumerable food webs. Any wetland site which regularly holds 1% or more of a water bird population is considered as an internationally important site under the Ramsar convention on wetlands. Wetlands are constantly under serious threats of loss and destruction owing to anthropogenic activities. In the current scenario, less than 50% of wetlands remain in India, are vanishing at a rate of 2-3% every year. The present study was conducted from 2015 to 2018 with constant surveying and monitoring. Various threats were recorded from fifteen wetland sites under study (S-1 to S-15), viz., excessive fishing, grazing and washing of livestock, fuel wood collection, water quality, siltation, weed invasion, agricultural expansion, pollution and sand mining were observed in and around the sampling sites. Among them, agricultural expansion, agricultural runoff, sand mining and weed invasion are the major challenges. After reporting severe threats, public awareness was created by organizing awareness programmes as well as several recommendations were suggested in order to conserve and restore the wetlands associated to Ujani reservoir.','Anthropogenic activities, Biodiversity, Ecosystem, Ramsar convention, Ujani Reservoir, Wetland','Almost all the sampling sites were affected by more or less a number of threats, which will have a negative impact on bird diversity and species richness in near future. Ujani wetlands provides nesting sites for near-threatened waterbird species, Painted Stork and White-naked Stork. As far as pollution status of the reservoir is concerned, most of the wetlands are on the way of eutrophication, protection of such wetlands is the need of time. Strict implementation of laws and constant surveillance, social awareness among villagers around Ujani reservoir about the sustainable use of such a great natural resource will be appropriate measure in this regard. The present work will helpful to identify the heronry sites among the bank of reservoir as well as to study the wetland avifaunal diversity.','-','Digvijay S. Kumbhar and Dnyandeo K. Mhaske (2023). A Survey of Major Threats and Management Guidelines for Conservation to Wetlands Distributed among Ujani Backwater, Maharashtra, India. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 15(2): 89-93.'),(6067,'149','Phytochemical Characterization, Antioxidant and Antibacterial Activity Evaluation of Ethanolic extract of Piper longum Root','Indrajeet Singh, Ram Krishna, Khursheed Ahmad and Ajay Kumar','Phytochemical-Characterization,-Antioxidant-and-Antibacterial-Activity-Evaluation-of-Ethanolic-extract-of-Piper-longum-Root-Indrajeet-Singh-18.pdf','',1,'Plant phytochemicals are found to be responsible for various pharmacological effects on the human health care system. Piper longum is one of the most commonly consumed spices, and its pungency is due to the presence of an alkaloid known as piperine. Piperine, the principle bio-molecular active compound of Piper longum, is found in black pepper (Piper nigrum), white pepper, and long pepper (Piper longum), all belonging to the family Piperaceae. Piperine is known as a bioavailability enhancer and elicits numerous pharmacological activities, including analgesic, anti-pyretic bioavailability enhancer, antioxidant, immune-stimulant, hepatoprotective, and many others. It is generally extracted or traditionally obtained from the fruits (pippali) and roots (pippalimula) of wild Piper longum, a medicinal plant of the family Piperaceae. The aim of this research paper will be to analyze the phytomolecules and evaluate the important activity of crude extract.','Piper longum, HPLC, GC-MS, piperine, piperlongumine, antioxidant and antibacterial','The conventional choice Indian medicinal herbs are thought to be a large basis for disease therapy. We studied the potential of certain phytocompounds derived from the most widely used medicinal plant, Piper longum, for this study. Several diseases and ailments, including as diabetes, inflammation, hepatotoxicity, depression, obesity, and cancer have been shown to be significantly improved by P. longum. The plant markedly improves microbial infections, cardiac disease, and protects against the effects of radiation. The specific effects of the plant make it more useful for animals and human beings. Furthermore, the plant appears to be nontoxic, as no deaths have been reported with the use of high doses of the plant\'s extracts. We conclude that this plant is safe and effective for use in various diseases. The plant is easily available, inexpensive, and free from adverse effects. Thus with the matter collected in this article we can scientifically work for various other pharmacological interrelated activities. ','-','Indrajeet Singh, Ram Krishna, Khursheed Ahmad and Ajay Kumar (2023). Phytochemical Characterization, Antioxidant and Antibacterial Activity Evaluation of Ethanolic Extract of Piper longum Root. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 15(2): 94-101.'),(6068,'149','Effect of Fertigation and Hydrogel on Growth and Flower Yield of Tuberose (Polianthes tuberosa L.)','Anil U., Hugar A.H., Kurubar A.R., Kapil P. and Ananda N.','Effect-of-Fertigation-and-Hydrogel-on-Growth-and-Flower-Yield-of-Tuberose-(Polianthes-tuberosa-L.)-Anil-U-19.pdf','',1,'The investigation on “Effect of fertigation and hydrogel on growth and flower yield of tuberose (Polianthes tuberosa L.) cv Mexican single” was carried out at Herbal Garden, college of Agriculture, UAS, Raichur during the year 2021-22. The experiment was comprised with four main treatments and three sub treatments laid out in split plot design with three replications. The results revealed that the treatment F1 at H1 (Fertigation with 100% RDF and Hydrogel as bulb dip @ 0.2%) recorded significantly higher plant height (68.82 cm), number of leaves per clump (225.92) and number of tillers per clump (24.51). The same treatment also recorded significantly higher flower yield (10.29 t/ha) was 29.49% increase over control (5.84 t/ha) which was due to increase in yield attributes viz, number of spikes per clump (21.76), flowers per spike (58.63), length of flower (6.21 cm), diameter of flower (4.75 cm), weight of 100 flowers (66.74 g) and flower yield per clump (161.99 g) confirmed as best treatment which could be recommended to the farmers for better income. Challenges during the study was proper supply of NPK through fertigation to all plants. It will be overcome with practice of proper maintenance of drippers supply of fresh form of fertilizers. ','Fertigation, Hydrogel, Tuberose, Mexican single','Among the different treatments, the treatment F1H1 (100% RDF through fertigation with 0.2% hydrogel as bulb dip) recorded higher yield (10.29 t/ha) which was due to improvement in vegetative and yield parameters. The same treatment was also found better for getting higher flower yield with quality and net returns with higher B:C ratio.','-','Anil U., Hugar A.H., Kurubar A.R., Kapil P. and Ananda N. (2023). Effect of Fertigation and Hydrogel on Growth and Flower Yield of Tuberose (Polianthes tuberosa L.). Biological Forum – An International Journal, 15(2): 102-106.'),(6069,'149','Fortification of Chocolate with Jackfruit (Artocarpus heterophyllus Lam.) Seed Powder: Qualitative and Storage Studies','Neelamanidurga D., Swami D.V., Ashok P. and Salomisuneetha D.R.','Fortification-of-Chocolate-with-Jackfruit-(Artocarpus-heterophyllus-Lam.)-Seed-Powder-Qualitative-and-Storage-Studies-Neelamanidurga-D-20.pdf','',1,'Jackfruit (Artocarpus heterophyllus Lam.) is one of the most underutilized fruit and producing maximum yield than any other tree specie. Jackfruit seed contains lignins, isoflavones, saponins, all phytonutrients and it had numerous health benefits such as anti cancer to anti hypertensive, anti aging, anti oxidant, anti ulcer and many others. Due to high perishable nature and lack of postharvest techniques we didn’t enjoy the taste of jackfruit seeds throughout the year. Nutrients and flavour of jackfruit seeds which are more helpful to human health are available by value addition through fortification of chocolate with jackfruit seed powder. The experiment was conducted in Completely Randomized Design with eight treatments and three replications. In this experiment chocolate has been prepared by incorporation of jackfruit seed powder with different levels (5g, 10g, 15g, 20g, 25g, 30g and 35g) by using double boiling method. Then the moulded chocolates were wrapped with aluminum foil and studied the storage life (up to 2 months) of chocolate. During storage period, qualitative parameters like moisture content (%), Total soluble solids (○Brix), titratable acidity (%), total sugars (%), reducing sugars (%), non reducing sugars (%), Protein content (%) and sensory parameters like appearance, texture, colour, taste, flavour and overall acceptability based on hedonic scale were recorded at every 15 days interval. The findings revealed that, lowest moisture content (2.17%), titratable acidity (1.08%) and highest total soluble solids (68.26°Brix), reducing sugars (2.79%), total sugars (44.92%) were recorded in T2 (10g incorporation of jackfruit seed powder) and highest protein content (13.37%) was recorded in T7 (with 35g jackfruit seed powder) jackfruit seed powder chocolate which was stored under refrigerated condition. Finally incorporation 10g of jackfruit seed powder chocolate was found to be the best among all treatments.','Jackfruit, jackfruit seed powder, cocoa butter, cocoa powder, different levels, fortification','The experiment was carried out with 8 treatments and 3 replications. In the experiment, different levels of jackfruit seed powder was incorporated in chocolate and prepared chocolates were stored at 4°C up to 2 months. During storage period, qualitative and sensory parameters were recorded at 15 days interval from initial day to 60th day. Among all the treatments, incorporation of 15g of seed powder chocolate was the best in both qualitative and sensory parameters and gaining highest benefit cost ratio (1.43).','-','Neelamanidurga D., Swami D.V., Ashok P. and Salomisuneetha D.R. (2023). Fortification of Chocolate with Jackfruit (Artocarpus heterophyllus Lam.) Seed Powder: Qualitative and Storage Studies. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 15(2): 107-111.'),(6070,'149','Effect of Foliar Application of Secondary and Micronutrients on Vegetable Crops','Eggadi Ramesh, Sindhu V., Vangapandu Triveni, Manisha and Katta Sree Vandana','Effect-of-Foliar-Application-of-Secondary-and-Micronutrients-on-Vegetable-Crops-Eggadi-Ramesh-21.pdf','',1,'Vegetables are most important in healthy human life as compare to the other crops, they are rich source of nutrients, vitamins (C, A, B1, B6, B9, E), minerals, dietary fiber and phytochemicals. Consumption of less than 200 g of vegetables per person per day in many countries today is common and this low amount, often in conjunction with poverty and poor medical services, is associated with unacceptable levels of mortality and malnutrition in preschool children and other vulnerable groups. Potato (Solanum tuberosum L.) is originally a native of South America. It is popularly known as ‘The king of vegetables’ has emerged as the fourth most important food crops in India after rice, wheat and maize. It is providing higher dry matter production per unit area and time as compared to other field crops. Potato is the single most popular vegetable-tuber crop grown in more than 150 countries of the world. Nutrient deficiencies in a crop arising at the critical stages of their growth which adversely affects the yield and quality of produce. Foliar fertilization is a widely used method to supplement soil application for improving the yield and quality of field crops. Foliar nutrition was found to be six, four and twenty times more beneficial than soil application for N, B and Zn respectively. The practice of foliar fertilization has the advantages of low cost and a quick plant response, and it is particularly important when soil problems occur and root growth is inadequate. Foliar application of secondary and micronutrients had a marked influence on growth and yield parameters with the spray of macro and micronutrients (Mg, S, Zn and B).','Foliar application, Potato, Micro and Macro nutrients','From the present investigation it is concluded that growing of potato with foliar spray of magnesium, sulphur, zinc, and boron was the most effective among the various secondary and micronutrients treatments as it influenced the crop throughout its growth which ultimately results in increase in yield and quality.','-','Eggadi Ramesh, Sindhu V., Vangapandu Triveni, Manisha and Katta Sree Vandana (2023). Effect of Foliar Application of Secondary and Micronutrients on Vegetable Crops. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 15(2): 112-122.'),(6071,'149','Phytochemical, Antioxidant and Antiviral Potential of Euphorbia milii','U. Tiwari, Rashmi Parihar and Sumit Kumar Dubey','Phytochemical,-Antioxidant-and-Antiviral-Potential-of-Euphorbia-milii-Sumit-Kumar-Dubey-22.pdf','',1,'Euphorbia milii has been widely known as a remedy for skin infections, warts, cancer cells, hepatic disorders, fungal infections, nociceptive conditions, and viral infections. The secondary metabolites viz., alkaloids, anthraquinone, anthocyanin, betacyanin, glycosides, flavonoids, phlobatannins, saponin, steroids, tannins, terpenoids, reducing sugars, and amino acids were examined. The maximum efficacy of phytoconstituents extraction was noted with ethanol (91.66 %). The hot water exhibited maximum free radical scavenging activity (IC50) of 6.12 µg/ml. The percentage scavenging activity (PSA) of hot water extract was calculated at 74.37%. The number of plaques in the titer plate was used as a measure of the antiviral strength of E. milii extracts. The ethanol extract of E. milii exhibited 22 plaques in the titer plate which showed maximum antiviral strength among tested solvent extracts of E. milii. Cyclobarbital was screened from the literature as a major bioactive constituent of E. milii. Later, the ZINC and Swiss-ADME profile of cyclobarbital was assessed and it showed acceptable druggability. The present course of investigation represented notable medicinal applications of E. milii extract as an antiviral agent that would further be extended to molecular characterization and in silico antiviral action modeling to get depth insight. The major challenge associated with the antiviral potential of bioactive agents is to cope with a viral mutation that is directly linked with target protein or receptor molecules. Hence consistent research and development of drug modification are required to remediate target-based bioactive agents.','Euphorbia milii, secondary metabolite, phytoconstituents, scavenging activity, antiviral and medicinal application','E. milii has rich medicinal properties that could potentially be used for Ayurvedic preparations. The current research investigation revealed that the ethanol extract of E. milii has rich phytochemical diversity and antiviral efficacy while the water extract of E. milii has significant antioxidant potential. The depth of molecular characterization and in silico pharmaceutical modeling of E. milii could help to explore its antiviral potential. The future scope of the existing research would further be the characterization of bioactive agents of E. milii using advanced biotechnological tools and in silico studies for diverse medicinal applications. ','-','U. Tiwari, Rashmi Parihar and Sumit Kumar Dubey (2023). Phytochemical, Antioxidant, and Antiviral Potential of Euphorbia milii. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 15(2): 123-129.'),(6072,'149','Genetic Analysis for Yield and Morphological Traits in Finger Millet [Eleusine coracana (L.) Gaertn.]','Harshal E. Patil, Vikas Pali, M. Elangovan, G.D. Vadodariya, Mayur P. Ramani,Sushil Pandey and Chitra Devi Pandey','Genetic-Analysis-for-Yield-and-Morphological-Traits-in-Finger-Millet-[Eleusine-coracana-_L._-Gaertn.]-Harshal E. Patil-23.pdf','',1,'A total of 38 finger millet accessions were evaluated for 12 morphological traits including grain yield at two locations: Hill Millet Research Station, NAU, Waghai, Gujarat and Agricultural Research Station, AAU, Dahod, Gujarat during Kharif, 2019, 2020 and 2021. The objectives were to examine the variability, correlation, and path coefficient analysis of morphological traits. High heritability estimates were reported for days to 50% flowering, days to maturity, plant height, number of productive tillers per plant, number of fingers per earhead, main earhead length, finger length, 1000 grain weight, grain yield per plant, straw yield per plant and harvest index indicating low environmental influence on these traits and presence of additive gene action for these traits. The number of fingers per ear head, number of productive tillers per plant, straw yield per plant, grain yield per plant, finger length, harvest index, and main ear head all showed moderate genotypic and phenotypic coefficients of variation, indicating ample scope for variation for these traits and allowing further improvement by selection of these traits. For the traits days to 50% flowering, finger width, days to maturity, plant height, and 1000 grain weight, low genotypic and phenotypic coefficients of variation were found, indicating low variability for these variables. According to DUS testing guidelines, the genotype WN-630 had extremely high finger counts per ear head—10.50, which is >8 (high)—and very long ear head lengths—13.43 cm, which is >12 cm (very long)—based on average performance over three years at various locations. Additionally, in accordance with DUS testing guidelines, the genotype WN-657 displayed very long ear head length, measuring 13.30 cm, which is >12 cm (very long), and long finger length, measuring 13.13 cm, which is >7 cm (extra long). This morphological characteristic, as well as the number of fingers per earhead, main earhead length, and finger length, all contribute directly to the high grain output per plant. As a result, these features might be prioritised during selection to acquire higher genetic benefits. CFMV-2, GNN-6, WN-630, and WN-657 were the highest yielding promising genotypes/varieties among the thirty-eight genotypes in finger millet and can be considered for varietal development and release for further selection.','Finger millet, variability, correlation and path coefficient, morphological traits etc','There is enough variation among the thirty-eight genotypes under study, according to the analysis of variance for all the traits, which revealed variations between the genotypes evaluated. CFMV-2, GNN-6, WN-630, and WN-657 were identified as promising genotypes based on per se performance since they exhibited increased grain yield per plant. According to DUS testing guidelines, the genotype WN-630 revealed very high finger counts per earhead (10.5, which is >8 (high) and very long earhead lengths (13.43, which is >12 cm (very long) also, the genotype WN 657 also exhibited very long ear head length of 13.30 cm, which is >12 cm (very long), and long finger length of 13.13 cm, which is >7 cm (extra long). Thus, the high grain yield per plant is directly attributed to these morphological traits. These genotypes could be further assessed in order to isolate morphological and high yielding traits for improved genotype selection techniques.\r\nFor the traits, namely, number of fingers per earhead, number of productive tillers per plant, straw yield per plant, grain yield per plant, finger length, harvest index, and main earhead length, there was moderate genotypic and phenotypic coefficient of variation. High heritability coupled with high to moderate genetic advance expressed as a percentage of mean for traits such as number of fingers per earhead, number of productive tillers per plant, main earhead length, finger length, grain yield per plant, straw yield per plant, harvest index, days to 50% flowering, days to maturity, and 1000 grain weight can be attributed to additive gene action, and these traits have high selective value. Number of fingers per earhead, productive tillers per plant, grain yield per plant, straw yield per plant, main earhead length, finger length, and harvest index all showed strong genetic advance expressed as a percentage of the mean, demonstrating the presence of additive gene action for these traits. This suggested that the genotypes for these attributes had a high degree of variability. High heritability estimates were observed for days to 50% flowering, days to maturity, plant height, number of productive tillers per plant, main earhead length, finger length, 1000 grain weight, grain yield per plant, straw yield per plant, and harvest index, indicating the existence of sufficient heritable variation and suggesting that selection based on phenotypic value could be useful for isolating better types. The high grain yield per plant is directly influenced by morphological characteristics like number of fingers per earhead, length of the primary earhead, and length of the finger. Harvest index, straw yield per plant, primary earhead length, days to 50% flowering, and finger width were all found to have a positive direct effect on grain yield per plant according to path coefficient analysis. Therefore, these characteristics were thought to be the most significant morphological factors, and proper emphasis should be provided while trying to increase yield in finger millet. The investigation on genetic analysis for yield and morphological traits in finger millet came to the following conclusion that the most significant component characters for increasing grain yield per plant are number of productive tillers per plant, number of fingers per earhead, main earhead length, straw yield per plant, and harvest index. As a result, these traits should be taken into consideration as selection criteria for increasing grain and fodder yield in finger millet.\r\n','-','Harshal E. Patil, Vikas Pali, M. Elangovan, G.D. Vadodariya, Mayur P. Ramani, Sushil Pandey and Chitra Devi Pandey (2023). Genetic Analysis for Yield and Morphological Traits in Finger Millet [Eleusine coracana (L.) Gaertn.]. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 15(2): 130-136.'),(6073,'149','Development of Protein Enriched Peanut Milk based Misti Doi','Thirumoorthy S., Marx Nirmal R., Perasiriyan V. and Esther Magdalene Sharon M.','Development-of-Protein-Enriched-Peanut-Milk-based-Misti-Doi-S.-Thirumoorthy-24.pdf','',1,'The study was undertaken to evaluate the feasibility of incorporating peanut milk along with cow milk for the production of nutrient-rich Misti Doi. The peanut milk was extracted by, roasting peanuts for 5 mins, soaking for 3 hours followed by grinding with the water (1:4 ratio). The Misti Doi was prepared in five different proportions of cow milk and peanut milk viz., Control (100% cow milk), T1 (90% cow milk: 10% peanut milk), T2 (80% cow milk: 20% peanut milk), T3 (70% cow milk: 30% peanut milk), T4 (60% cow milk: 40% peanut milk), T5 (50% cow milk: 50% peanut milk) using NCDC- 159 as an inoculum. Among the various concentration, 70% cow milk and 30% peanut milk recorded the highest overall acceptability and was chosen for further evaluation. The Misti Doi was evaluated for organoleptic characteristics (colour, flavour, taste, texture and overall acceptability), physico-chemical (pH, acidity, TSS, Total Solids, syneresis, Viscosity), nutritional composition (moisture, protein, fat, ash, lactose, crude fibre, carbohydrate and energy value. The results of chemical test includes pH, viscosity, Total solids, Fat, Protein, Crude fibre, energy value, TSS increased significantly whereas Acidity, lactose, Ash, moisture, carbohydrate, Syneresis decreased significantly due to the addition of Peanut milk. The results of the present study indicates that 30% replacement of Cow milk with Peanut milk could be used successfully which would produce the quality of Misti Doi nearly similar to the Doi made purely from the Cow milk. It was concluded that peanut milk substituted Misti Doi was affordable and accessible to people with lower income.','Peanut milk, Cow milk, Peanut, Misti Doi, Protein, syneresis','From the results of the present study, it can be concluded that 30% level of peanut milk incorporated misti dahi was found to be ideal based on the sensory evaluation. This exhibits similar physico-chemical (pH, acidity, TSS, Syneresis, viscosity and Total Solids) and nutritional composition (moisture, protein, fat, CHO, energy value, lactose and crude fibre) to the Doi prepared from 100% cow milk. This study encourage industries for commercial production of Misti Doi with 30% cow milk replaced with peanut milk which will be widely acceptable by overall population. It was concluded that peanut milk substituted Misti Doi was affordable and accessible to people with lower income without affecting the palatability and acceptability of Doi.','-','Thirumoorthy S., Marx Nirmal R., Perasiriyan V. and Esther Magdalene Sharon M. (2023). Development of Protein Enriched Peanut Milk based Misti Doi. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 15(2): 137-143.'),(6074,'149','Analysis of Seed Yield and its Contributing Traits Inheritance in M3 Generation of EMS Induced Black Gram (Vigna mungo L. Hepper) Mutants','Bhattu Rajesh Nayak, Raju Padiya, K. Srinivas Naik and G. Vijay Kumar','Analysis-of-Seed-Yield-and-its-Contributing-Traits-Inheritance-in-M3-Generation-of-EMS-Induced-Black-Gram-(Vigna-mungo-L.-Hepper)-Mutants-G-Vijay-Kumar-25.pdf','',1,'The present study was carried to analyse the EMS induced on seed yield and its contributing characters of blackgram (accession IC-436524) when raised during M3 generation in Kharif season in the month of mid June-mid September, 2022 in the field located Kodad, Suryapet, Telangana. Demand for grain legumes has been increased recently due to their high protein and nutritional values. This resulted for the production of huge quantity of grains to meet the demand for increasing population like India. Genetic variability is prerequisite for isolating high yield blackgram genotypes. Mutation breeding is the simple, cheap and best practise to genetic variability in self pollinated crop like blackgram. In this study, EMS induced blackgram (accession IC-436524) mutants was used to identify the inheritance of high yielding mutants of M2 progeny during M3 generation along with Untreated seeds were used as (Control) and T-9 (as check, collected from ICAR-CRIDA, Hyderabad). Investigation revealed that top 5 mutants with high morphological variations in Plant height, Branches, leaves, Clusters, Pods, Seeds, Seed yield, root length and root nodules were observed. It clearly indicated that there are adequate amount of variability among the blackgram mutants due to EMS treatments.','Blackgram, mutants, M3 generation, Seed yield','Among top five mutants, two mutants from 0.2% and 0.3% EMS viz., I-IC-436524-M3 and IX-IC-436524-M3 showed highest seed yield (g/pl). The % increase calculated for the character seed yield (g/pl) of I-IC-436524-M3 (0.2%) recorded was 97.62 over control (untreated) and 95.82 % over T-9 (check). The % increase calculated for the character seed yield (g/pl) of IX-IC-436524-M3 (0.3%) recorded was 115.40% over control (untreated) and 113.44% over T-9 (check) in M3 generation. Hence these mutants could be utilized for further crop improvement programme in blackgram.','-','Bhattu Rajesh Nayak, Raju Padiya, K. Srinivas Naik and G. Vijay Kumar (2023). Analysis of Seed Yield and its Contributing Traits Inheritance in M3 Generation of EMS Induced Black Gram (Vigna mungo L. Hepper) Mutants. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 15(2): 144-153.'),(6075,'149','Comparative Quantification of Total Carbohydrate and Protein Content of Aerial Parts of Neolamarckia cadamba','Swati Shikha and Anil Kumar','Comparative-Quantification-of-Total-Carbohydrate-and-Protein-Content-of-Aerial-Parts-of-Neolamarckia-cadamba-Swati-Shikha-26.pdf','',1,'Nutritive compounds such as carbohydrates and proteins are the main source of energy which is essential for the proper physiological process. In the present study carbohydrate and protein contents of aerial plant parts of Neolamarckia cadamba (leaves, bark, unripe fruits and ripe fruits) were analysed using respective standard methods. For analysis extracts of plant parts were prepared in ethanol (1:10 w/v). The highest carbohydrate content of 42.61 ± 2.8 mg/g of GLUEwas observed in bark followed by leaves, ripe fruits and unripe fruits whereas protein content of 40 ± 0.14 mg/g BSAE was found to be highest in leaves followed by unripe fruits, bark and ripe fruits. These findings will help in determining the nutritional potential, quality and benefits of Neolamarckia cadambaas food.','Neolamarckia cadamba, carbohydrate, protein, ethanol, Jharkhand','Based on the above comparative result no major differences were observed between total carbohydrate and protein content however significant differences can be observed among the carbohydrate and protein content of plant parts. Among all plant parts leaves were found to have good amount of carbohydrates and protein. Overall it was concluded that studied plant parts of N. cadamba contain a reasonable amount of protein and carbohydrates and can be incorporated into the diet as supplements for nutritional purposes. ','-','Swati Shikha and Anil Kumar (2023). Comparative Quantification of Total Carbohydrate and Protein Content of Aerial Parts of Neolamarckia cadamba. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 15(2): 154-157.'),(6076,'149','Comparative Study between Morphological and Microsatellite Markers for Genetic Purity Testing of Maize (Zea mays L.) F1 Hybrids','V. Satya Srii and N. Nethra','Comparative-Study-between-Morphological-and-Microsatellite-Markers-for-Genetic-Purity-Testing-of-Maize-(Zea-Mays-L.)-F1-Hybrids-V.-Satya-Srii-27.pdf','',1,'The genetic purity of seeds is the chief determinant to exploit the varietal or hybrid potential. Despite the serious attempts of many public and private sector institutes in the development of high yielding hybrids, farmers fail to realize the assured yield potential due to lack of genetic purity of procured seeds. In this study, we aimed to study and compare the efficiency of different methods of genetic purity testing i.e., Grow-out Test (GOT) and Simple Sequence Repeat (SSRs) in maize hybrids MAH-14-5 and Hema. Ten unique morphological markers were identified between the hybrids MAH 14-5 and Hema and their parental lines. Twenty-five SSR markers were screened out of which seven showed polymorphism. Of these identified polymorphic markers, two i.e. Bnlg 1520 and Umc 1288 were uniquely polymorphic to MAH-14-5 and three i.e. Phi 053, Bnlg 1621 and Bnlg 1014 were uniquely polymorphic to Hema while two i.e. Bnlg 1185 and Umc 1594 showed common polymorphism to both Hema and MAH-14-5. Ten seed lots of Hema were tested with the identified morphological and microsatellite markers. The comparative analysis of lot testing confirmed the superiority of microsatellite markers over morphological markers in the precise detection of off-types. Hence, it is concluded that microsatellite marker analysis would be a better substitute for conventional GOT to test for seed genetic purity.','Genetic purity, GOT, Maize, Microsatellite, SSR','We conclude that it is possible to differentiate maize hybrids more accurately and efficiently from their parental lines and off-types/selfed seeds using locus-specific allelic information through SSR markers. Molecular markers are much reliable, precise, and time saving compared to conventional markers. Due to the lesser time requirement for molecular marker analysis and its precision, farmers can be provided with high-quality seeds at the right time. So, it is suggested that a shift from morphological to molecular markers for genetic purity testing of seed lots would revolutionize the seed industry. ','-','V. Satya Srii and N. Nethra (2023). Comparative Study between Morphological and Microsatellite Markers for Genetic Purity Testing of Maize (Zea mays L.) F1 Hybrids. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 15(2): 158-163.'),(6077,'149','Effect of Seed Priming on Germination and Growth of Rough Lemon and Rangpur Lime Seedlings','Bharti Choudhary, T.R. Sharma, S.K. Pandey and R.B. Singh','Effect-of-Seed-Priming-on-Germination-and-Growth-of-Rough-Lemon-and-Rangpur-Lime-Seedlings-Bharti-Choudhary-28.pdf','',1,'Citrus fruit belongs to Rutaceae family and it is one of the major horticultural crops grown in more than 100 countries worldwide. Rough lemon (Citrus jambhiri) and Rangpur lime (Citrus limonia Osbeck) is the most promising rootstock used for propagating mandarin in Central India. However, seed germination of these crops is very poor as well as late germination occurs. Slow seedlings growth bound to use as rootstocks. Rapid germination, maximum germination percentage and healthy seedlings stock are very much essential to fulfill the growing demands for budded and grafted quality planting material. Several studies have been indicated that seed priming will improve the germination and subsequent growth of seedlings in many fruits species. Therefore, pre-sowing seed treatment is very important and it can be done either by physical method such as scarification or by soaking in chemicals, growth regulators, organic substance etc. Cow urine affects the inhibitory response to seed germination, shoot growth and seedling vigor. Gibberellic acid (GA3) is an environment-friendly growth regulator which being used in couples of fruits crops to enhance phenotypic traits besides breaking the dormancy. The present experiment was carried out in Asymmetric Factorial Completely Randomized Design with four replications. Treatments include seed priming (GA3 200 ppm, cow urine 20% & control) and rootstock (rough lemon & rangpur lime). Seed priming with GA3 @ 200 ppm found maximum germination percent, survival percent, height of seedling, number of leaves/ seedling, root shoot ratio, seedling vigour index I & II and minimum days taken to first germination. Maximum germination percent, survival percent, seedling height, root shoot ratio and seedling vigour index I and minimum days taken to first germination at 60 days after sowing was recorded under the seed of rough lemon whereas maximum seedling vigour index II was observed in rangpur lime. The effect of seedling on number of leaves with different rootstocks was observed as non-significant. Seed priming in GA3 200 ppm with Rough lemon seeds significantly influenced the root shoot ratio and seedling vigour index II but not significant in germination (%), taken to first germination, survival percent of seedlings, height of seedling, number of leaves/ seedling and seedling vigour index I. Hence, combination as seed priming in GA3 200 ppm with Rough lemon seeds may be used for preparing seedlings/ rootstocks for further vegetative multiplication to fulfil the demand of quality planting material. ','Seed priming, GA3, cow urine and Rough lemon','On the basis of results found in the present investigation, it is, concluded that seed priming with GA3 @ 200 ppm found maximum germination percent , survival percent, height of seedling, number of leaves/seedling, root shoot ratio, seedling vigour index I & II (23.01 g) and minimum days taken to first germination.\r\n With regard to rootstock in rough lemon rootstock found maximum germination percent, survival percent, seedling height, root shoot ratio and seedling vigour index I and minimum days taken to first germination at 60 days after sowing was recorded under seed of rough lemon rootstock whereas maximum seedling vigour index II was observed in rangpur lime rootstock seedlings. The effect of rootstock on number of leaves with different rootstock was observed to be non-significant. Seed priming in GA3 200 ppm with Rough lemon seeds significantly influenced the root shoot ratio and seedling vigour index II but not significant in germination (%), taken to first germination, survival percent of seedlings, height of seedling (cm), number of leaves/seedling, and seedling vigour index I (cm).\r\n','-','Bharti Choudhary, T.R. Sharma, S.K. Pandey and R.B. Singh (2023). Effect of Seed Priming on Germination and Growth of Rough Lemon and Rangpur Lime Seedlings. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 15(2): 164-169.'),(6078,'149','Identification of Fertility Restorers with Desirable General Combining Ability for Oleic Acid Content, Seed Yield and Oil content in Sunflower (Helianthus annuus L.)','M.S. Umar Farooq*, M.S. Uma, S.D. Nehru and C.P. Manjula','Identification-of-Fertility-Restorers-with-Desirable-General-Combining-Ability-for-Oleic-Acid-Content,-Seed-Yield-and-Oil-content-in-Sunflower-(Helianthus-annuus-L.-M.S.-Umar-Farooq-29.pdf','',1,'During kharif 2020, study was conducted to examine the fertility restoration behaviour of 40 new high oleic inbred lines on six CMS lines and to evaluate the effects of general combining ability by mating the parents in a Line-Tester setup. In rabi 2020, the resulting 240 hybrids were assessed using an alpha lattice design. The male fertility or sterility response of all the F1’s was visually inspected, and the resultant fertile hybrids were then validated once more using the acetocarmine staining procedure. Six CMS lines and 28 high oleic testers were found to be common restorers, while six were found to be common maintainers, out of the 40 high oleic testers assessed for sterility maintenance and restoration activity. The oleic acid content, seed yield plant-1, and oil content of the fertile testers F-20, K-11, L-3-1, G-5, and B-29-2 were found to be good general combiners based on the gca effects. The study\'s findings made it abundantly clear that the high oleic fertile testers with good general combining ability effects could pass on genes with additive effects to the hybrid progenies in the desired direction; as a result, it would be advantageous to use them as parents in breeding programmes to produce high oleic hybrids with high seed yield and oil content.','Sunflower, oleic acid content, fertility restorers, CMS lines, gca effects','The results from the study clearly suggested that the identified high oleic fertile testers with good general combining ability effects for oleic acid content in combination with seed and oil yield could transmit genes with additive effects to the hybrid progenies in the desirable direction thereby, it would be valuable to utilize them as parents in breeding programme to derive high oleic hybrids along with high seed yield and oil content.','-','M.S. Umar Farooq, M.S. Uma, S.D. Nehru, and C.P. Manjula (2023). Identification of Fertility Restorers with Desirable General Combining Ability for Oleic Acid Content, Seed Yield and Oil content in Sunflower (Helianthus annuus L.). Biological Forum – An International Journal, 15(2): 170-176.'),(6079,'149','Effect of Seasonal and Altitude Variations in the Reactive Oxygen Species Production and Antioxidant’s Concentration in Mangifera indica L. (var. kottukonam)','Shalaj Rasheed, Raveendran P.B. and Lubaina Abdulhadeef Shereefa','Effect-of-Seasonal-and-Altitude-Variations-in-the-Reactive-Oxygen-Species-Production-and-Antioxidant’s-Concentration-in-Mangifera-indica-L.-(var.-kot-Lubaina-Abdulhadeef--Shereefa-30.pdf','',1,'Reactive oxygen species produced as by-product of aerobic metabolism are toxic but plays an important signaling role in plants and controlling the processes like growth and development. Their production are regulated by various biotic and abiotic stresses. Free radicals like Superoxides (O.-2), Hydroxyl radicals (OH.) and non-radicals such as Hydrogen Peroxide (H2O2) and Singlet Oxygen (1O2) are the common ROS which make serious oxidative damages to cells. Mango (Mangifera indica L.), a member of Anacardiaceae is perhaps the most sweetest and nutritious fruit yielding tropical tree. Kottukonan is one of the varieties over 1500 varieties of Mangifera indica L. found globally and are commonly cultivated in the southern parts of Kerala state of India especially in Thiruvananthapuram and Kollam districts was the study material. The leaf samples of kottukonam have been collected from three altitudes in four seasons. The major challenge of the study was to learn the dominant machineries in mango tree to alleviate the serious effects generated by ROS in relation with seasonal and altitude variations. The study revealed that changing the concentration of enzymatic (Ascorbate Peroxidase, Catalase, Glutathione Reductase, Guaiacol Peroxidase, Mono Dehydro Ascorbate Reductase, Dehydro Ascorbate Reductase, NADPH Oxidase and Super Oxide Dismutase) and non-enzymatic (Proline, Ascorbic acid and Reduced Glutathione) antioxidants with respect to the fluctuation in the concentration of ROS is the considerable mechanism to reduce the significant damages by them in cells. The concentration of ROS, enzymatic and non-enzymatic antioxidant composition is higher in pre-reproductive winter and reproductive summer seasons. The coastal area samples showed more concentration of such antioxidants and ROS due to an additional environmental stress, high salinity. Results indicated that the flowering and fruiting is also the upshot of higher production of many antioxidants along with other hormonal changes in relation with high intensity of major abiotic stresses in Mangifera indica L. (var. kottukonam). High antioxidant property of mango fruits is the reflection of such abiotic stresses in winter and summer seasons. ','Reactive Oxygen Species, Antioxidant compounds, Mangifera indica, Kottukonam, abiotic and biotic stresses','In relation with seasonal and altitude variationsn on enzymatic and enzymatic antioxidants were produced in Mangifera indica L. (var. kottukonam). The environmental stresses like drought, high temperature, high salinity, high oxygen concentration and high light intensity leads to the over production of various ROS especially Hydrogen peroxide and Superoxide anions, and the plant defeated these injuries by the extra production of certain non enzymatic antioxidant compounds such as Proline, Ascorbic acid and Reduced Glutathione, and antioxidant enzymes such as Ascorbate Peroxidase, Catalase, Glutathione Reductase, Mono DehydroAscorbate Reductase, Dehydro Ascorbate Reductase, Guaiacol Peroxidase, NADPH Oxidase and Superoxide Dismutase. The quantity of these antioxidants varied in relation with the production of ROS which in turn related with the intensity and type of stresses faced by the plant in a specific season and altitude. The present result concludes that these antioxidant machinery seems to be sufficient in Mangifera indica L. (var. kottukonam) to fight against various environmental stresses. ','-','Shalaj Rasheed, Raveendran P.B. and Lubaina Abdulhadeef Shereefa (2023). Effect of Seasonal and Altitude Variations in the Reactive Oxygen Species Production and Antioxidant’s Concentration in Mangifera indica L. (var. kottukonam). Biological Forum – An International Journal, 15(2): 177-184.'),(6080,'149','Assessment of Variations in Phytochemical Components in Stem and Root Bark of Dillenia pentagyna from different Locations of Madhya Pradesh','Hari Om Saxena, Samiksha Parihar and Asima Das','Assessment-of-Variations-in-Phytochemical-Components-in-Stem-and-Root-Bark-of-Dillenia-pentagyna-from-different-Locations-of-Madhya-Pradesh-Hari-Om-Saxena-31.pdf','',1,'Dillenia pentagyna Roxb. (Dilleniaceae) is a pharmaceutically important plant species, in India, it is distributed in Himalayan terai from Punjab to Assam, South India, Andamans, Gujarat, Mizoram, and West Bengal. Secondary metabolites provide defence to plants against pests and pathogens and form the backbone of modern system of medicines. In the present investigation, preliminary phytochemical screening and quantification of secondary metabolites in stem and root bark of D. pentagyna collected from seven different forest divisions of Madhya Pradesh state were carried out to find out the variations in secondary metabolite concentrations. The preliminary phytochemical screening shows the presence of alkaloids, flavonoids, phenols, tannins, and terpenoids, and the quantification of secondary metabolites revealed the presence of alkaloids, flavonoids, phenols, tannins, and terpenoids to be in the range of 0.87±0.2 - 4.13±0.22 mg CE/g dry wt, 7.63±0.21 - 18.56±0.01 mg QE/g dry wt, 68.3±0.18 - 42.8±0.06 mg GAE/g dry wt, 3.29±0.04 - 12.04±0.4 (mg TAE/g dry wt) and 8.48±0.12 - 9.85±0.05 % respectively. The study showed the rich content of TAC in populations of Sagar, TFC in populations of Alirajpur, and TPC, TTC, TTrC in populations of North Balaghat which can further be investigated for individual chemical constituents.','Dillenia pentagyna, Secondary Metabolites, Preliminary Phytochemical Screening, Alkaloids, Flavonoids, Phenols, Tannins, Terpenoids','D. pentagyna has been extensively used in folklore medicine and the present work depicting the range of phytochemicals present in plant supports the medicinal importance of this plant. The present work is the first comprehensive evaluation on variations of various secondary metabolites in extracts of stem and root bark collected from various locations of Madhya Pradesh. The current finding will helpful in collection of samples for therapeutic purposes. Further research may also be carried out to isolate, characterize, and identify the individual compounds for drug development. Also, the study will help in the conservation as well as improvement programme of D. pentagyna.','-','Hari Om Saxena, Samiksha Parihar and Asima Das (2023). Assessment of Variations in Phytochemical Components in Stem and Root Bark of Dillenia pentagyna from different Locations of Madhya Pradesh. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 15(2): 185-190.'),(6081,'149','Design Modifications of a Horizontal Spray Patternator','Mukesh Kumar Choudhary, Gopal Carpenter, Mohit Kumar, Malkhan Singh Jatav, Annu Rani and E.V. Thomas','Design-Modifications-of-a-Horizontal-Spray-Patternator-Mukesh-Kumar-Choudhary-32.pdf','',1,'The performance evaluation of nozzles used in agricultural sprayer boom is done with spray patternator. The present study was conducted to design and modify a spray patternator, which can be used to evaluate hydraulic spray nozzles. A spray patternator was designed and modified to test two nozzles simultaneously with provision to change the setting height from patternator surface and spacing between the nozzles with varying pressure settings. The 12V DC operated diaphragm pump with self-priming system was used which was capable of building pressure up to 6.8 bar. A recirculation pump was used to return the water from sump to reservoir and a to prevent spray drift during experiment, a drift cover was developed. An automatic pressure control system was developed with a pressure sensor, motor driver and microcontroller.','Nozzle, Spray patternator, Spray distribution','The result indicated that there is linear relationship between input voltage and pressure and the working pressure of nozzle is constant. The result indicated that the pressure of nozzle affects the operational parameters such as discharge rate, spray angle and spray distribution. As pressure increases the discharge rate, spray angle and spray swath of liquid spray also increase. Overall, the benefits of modifying an existing horizontal spray patternator can be significant, and can contribute to improved productivity, profitability, and overall performance in a variety of industries that rely on liquid spraying applications. Overall, spray patternators play a vital role in ensuring the performance and reliability of various liquid spraying applications. They enable operators to fine-tune their equipment for optimal efficiency, while also reducing waste and improving overall productivity.','-','Mukesh Kumar Choudhary, Gopal Carpenter, Mohit Kumar, Malkhan Singh Jatav, Annu Rani and E.V. Thomas (2023). Design Modifications of a Horizontal Spray Patternator. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 15(2): 191-194.'),(6082,'149',' Impact of Improved Kharif Onion Varieties in Andhra Pradesh','G. Prasad Babu, Alok Kumar Singh and Satyendra Singh','Impact-of-improved-Kharif-Onion-varieties-in-Andhra-Pradesh-G-Prasad-Babu-33.pdf','',1,'Onion is being grown in Andhra Pradesh in an area of 44,600 ha with productivity of 16.2 t/ha whereas the national productivity is 18.64 t/ha. Kurnool district is leading in its area and production in Andhra Pradesh state with average productivity of 16.0 t/ha which is lower than the national average productivity. Farmers in Kurnool district despite availability of improved high yielding varieties due to lack of awareness they are growing traditional non-descript (local) varieties in Kharif season as a result of which getting poor yields and low net returns. Challenges are to make farmers aware of latest varieties suitable for kharif and ensure their adoption in the field in order to increase the production, productivity and net income to the farmers. To achieve this National Horticultural Research and Development Foundation (NHRDF), Kurnool in collaboration with District Agricultural Advisory and Transfer of Technology Centre (DAATTC), Kurnool conducted demonstrations by practicing Integrated Crop Management practices with L-883 and Agrifound Dark Red improved varieties of NHRDF for three years from 2016 to 2018 in Kharif season in 30 ha area at different locations of Kurnool district in selected farmers’ fields. The productivity and economic returns of onion in demonstrations fields were calculated and compared with the corresponding farmer\'s practices. Both the varieties recorded higher gross return, net return and cost benefit ratio in demonstration fields as compared to the control plots. Results showed that over the years L-883 and Agrifound dark red varieties performed superior over local check. In case of L-883 variety the gross returns were Rs. 2,74,414/ha, net returns were Rs. 1,18,781/ha with extension gap of 72.30 q/ha, technology gap of 62.0 q/ha, technology index was 20.6% and B:C ratio was 1.76 compared to local variety. In case of Agrifound Dark Red onion variety the gross returns were Rs. 2,27,316/ha, net returns were Rs.76,716/ha with extension gap of 33.7 q/ha, technology gap of 50.6 q/ha, technology index was 20.2% and B:C ratio was 1.5 compared to local variety. L-883 variety harvested 26 days before and Agrifound dark red 16 days before local variety. Further bulb diameters, bulb weight, plant height at maturity, TSS, dry matter % were found to be high in improved varieties compared to local check. Significance in yield difference was found at p < 0.01 in both the improved varieties compared to check variety. Main contributions of this study were farmers made aware of latest improved verities as a result of which there was increase in production, productivity and net income as well as the livelihood of the farming community. ','Demonstration, Perceived attributes, Technology gap, Extension gap, Technology index, improved Onion varieties','Performance of both NHRDF varieties viz., L-883 and Agrifound Dark Red under demonstration were found to be better than their respective local check. The NHRDF L-883 variety recorded highest yield of 236q/ha with 43.6% average increased yield over the control plot followed by Agrifound Dark Red (199.4 Q/ha) with 20.02%. The economics analysis of the data over three years revealed that L-883 onion variety recorded higher gross returns Rs.2,74,414/-, net returns Rs.1,18,781/- per hectare and B:C ratio 1.76 compared to local check variety. In case of Agrifound Dark Red variety gross returns were Rs.2,27,316/- per hectare, net returns were Rs.76,716/- and B:C ratio 1.5 compared to local check variety. That is the additional net returns Rs.1,06,295/-in L-883 variety on the additional expense of Rs12,486/- and in Agrifound Dark Red variety it was Rs.66,079/- on additional expense of Rs.10,637/- per hectare as an adoption cost over control. Hence it could be concluded that due to adoption of improved varieties and ICM practices instead of using local varieties and traditional practices farmers can get an additional net returns per hectare with improvement in production by 20-42%. ','-','G. Prasad Babu, Alok Kumar Singh and Satyendra Singh (2023). Impact of improved Kharif Onion varieties in Andhra Pradesh. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 15(2):195-200.'),(6083,'149','Character Association and Path Analysis for Yield, Yield attributing, Root and Nutritional Traits in Chickpea (Cicer arietinum L.) Genotypes','Kanushree Nandedkar and Ritu R. Saxena','Character-Association-and-Path-Analysis-for-Yield,-Yield-attributing,-Root-and-Nutritional-Traits-in-Chickpea-(Cicer-arietinum-L.)-Genotypes-Kanushree-Nandedkar-34.pdf','',1,'With an aim of establishing selection criteria for breeding high yielding varieties offering high nutritional content and good root architecture, association analysis was performed among 106 chickpea genotypes including 8 checks for eighteen yield, yield attributing, root and nutritional traits during Rabi 2020-21 and Rabi 2021-22. Simple correlation and path analysis based on pooled data of two seasons suggested that while exercising selection index due weightage given to the traits viz., biological yield, harvest index for improving seed yield per plant and 100 seed weight will be rewarding for simultaneous improvement in these traits. Selection of genotypes with high protein content, larger root length and moderate seed size will be helpful in developing high yielding high protein content varieties with good root architecture. Whereas, direct selection of plant height will be rewarding for developing machine harvestable varieties by improving height of 1st pod.','Chickpea, Correlation, Direct effects, Yield, Root, Nutrition','Correlation and path analysis suggested selection of traits viz., biological yield and harvest index for seed yield per plant, selection of plant height for height of 1st pod and biological yield and seed yield per plant for 100 seed weight will be rewarding for simultaneous improvement in these traits in breeding programmes. Also selection of genotypes with high protein content, larger root length, root volume and moderate seed size will be helpful in developing high yielding high protein content varieties with good root architecture. Hence, it is suggested that while exercising selection index due weightage should be given to these traits.','-','Kanushree Nandedkar and Ritu R. Saxena (2023). Character Association and Path Analysis for Yield, Yield attributing, Root and Nutritional Traits in Chickpea (Cicer arietinum L.) Genotypes. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 15(2): 201-206.'),(6084,'149','Studies the Effect of Organic, Inorganic and Bio-fertilizers on the Growth and Yield of Okra cv. Arka Anamika','Ramveer Yadav, Harendra, Paramita Deb, Sachin Kishor and Deepak Maurya','Studies-the-Effect-of-Organic,-Inorganic-and-Bio-fertilizers-on-the-Growth-and-Yield-of-Okra-cv.-Arka-Anamika-Harendra-35.pdf','',1,'The current study was conducted in 2021-2022 at CRC Farm, Department of Horticulture, ITM University Gwalior with Randomized Block Design along with 3 replications comprised of 12 treatments using organic manures likes FYM, vermi-compost and poultry manure, inorganic fertilizers and bio-fertilizers such as Azotobacter and PSB were applied in okra variety Arka Anamika. Integrated nutrient management (INM) is one of the most important methods to reduce input of chemical fertilizers and organic manure such as animal manures, crop residue and green manure neutralized soil acidity and supplied essential micronutrients. The different treatment combinations of organic manures like FYM, vermi-compost and poultry manure, inorganic fertilizers and bio-fertilizers like Azotobacter and PSB were significantly influenced the growth, yield and economic parameters of okra at different stages. The result revealed that the maximum growth, yield parameters and economic were observed in the treatment T7 (100 % RDF + Poultry manure + Azotobacter + PSB) whereas minimum growth, yield parameters and economic were recorded in treatment T1 (100 % RDF-100 Kg N, 60 Kg P2O5 and 50 Kg K2O), respectively.','Organic, Inorganic manures, Bio-fertilizers, Okra, growth, yield, economic parameter','Result concluded that the different treatment combinations of organic like FYM, vermi-compost and poultry manure, inorganic and bio-fertilizers like Azotobacter and PSB were significantly influenced the growth, yield and economic parameters of okra at different stages. Furthermore, they reviewed the maximum growth, yield parameters and economic were noticed in the treatment T7 (100 % RDF + Poultry manure + Azotobacter + PSB) and statistically found significant than the rest of the treatments, whereas the lowest were noted in treatment T1 (100 % RDF). On the basis of the result obtained after completion of present investigation we can also say that using integrated nutrient management not only increase the production but reduce the consumption of chemical fertilizers and may also improve the soil health. But the further research work is needed to confirm the findings of the present investigation.','-','Ramveer Yadav, Harendra, Paramita Deb, Sachin Kishor and Deepak Maurya (2023). Studies the Effect of Organic, Inorganic and Bio-fertilizers on the Growth and Yield of Okra cv. Arka Anamika. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 15(2): 207-212.'),(6085,'149','Decolorization Efficiency of Crude Laccase Extract of Cladosporium magnoliigena LACF6 on different Textile Dyes','Jaya Dayal*, Anuradha Singh and Nupur Mathur','Decolorization-Efficiency-of-Crude-Laccase-Extract-of-Cladosporium-magnoliigena-LACF6-on-different-Textile-Dyes-Jaya-Dayal-36.pdf','',1,'Many industries use synthetic dyes, but their use pollutes the environment and endangers the lives of people., Despite its high color concentrations, only a tiny percentage of textile effluent is treated. They pollute waterways and harm terrestrial and aquatic ecosystems. Therefore, textile dyes must be removed from wastewater before their final discharge into the receiving water bodies. However, their removal from wastewater remains a significant challenge due to the stable nature of dyes. These effluents are typically treated using physical and chemical processes, but these methods are costly, complex, and may produce harmful intermediates. Dye decolorization using microorganisms and their enzymatic systems is a method that is both cost-effective and helpful to the environment. It can reduce the pollution caused by the dyeing industries. In this work, crude laccase enzyme from C. magnoliigena LACF6 was extracted. It is found to have good dye removal efficacy for the various dyes used in this investigation. The color removal efficiency of crude laccase extract was around 75.73 ± 3.00 when applied to Victoria Blue B dye at a concentration of 1 mg/ml. However, at the same conditions, the decolorization percentages for Congo Red, Alizarin Red S, and Methylene Blue were 31.69 ± 3.11, 28.30 ± 1.54, and 11.09 ± 1.44, respectively. The significance of crude laccase (C. magnoliigena LACF6) in treating industrial effluents containing dyes is seen in the results of this experiment, which indicate that this crude laccase extract has a high potential for decolorizing various structurally different textile dyes.','ABTS, crude enzyme, Dye decolorization, Fungus, Synthetic textile dyes, Tannic acid','One of the principal sources of water contamination in the textile dyeing industrial area is the direct dumping of chemicals, primarily dye-containing effluents, into the open environment. The dyes seriously threaten the ecosystem and negatively affect all living organisms. Therefore, removing dyes and other chemical compounds from industrial effluents prior to their discharge into open water bodies is a key concern. There are various physicochemical and biological techniques for dye treatment. Dye decolorization with microorganisms and their enzymatic system is a cost-effective and environmentally beneficial solution for reducing the pollution from the dye industry. In the current preliminary study, crude laccase enzyme was extracted from C. magnoliigena LACF6 and has been shown to have 12.75 ± 1.47U/ml laccase activity and good color removal efficiency for the several classes of dyes. For example, at a dye concentration of 1 mg/ml, the color removal efficacy of Victoria Blue B dye by crude laccase extract was 75.73 ± 3.00. However, at the same initial dye concentration, the decolorization percentages for Congo Red, Alizarin Red S, and Methylene Blue were 31.69 ± 3.11, 28.30 ± 1.54, and 11.09 ±1.44 respectively, under the same conditions. On the other hand, it has been seen that Trypan Blue, Malachite Green, and Orange G could not be decolorized effectively with this enzymatic treatment. The findings showed that crude laccase from C. magnoliigena LACF6 is a significant biological and eco-friendly approach for treating colored dye wastewater.','-','Jaya Dayal, Anuradha Singh and Nupur Mathur (2023). Decolorization Efficiency of Crude Laccase Extract of Cladosporium magnoliigena LACF6 on different Textile Dyes. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 15(2): 213-219.'),(6086,'149','Opinion Expressed by Livestock Farmers on Para Veterinarians in Rendering Livestock Services in Bidar and Kalaburagi District of Kalyana Karnataka','Channappa, Goudappa S.B., Chandargi D.M., Shivanand K., Jag Jiwan Ram and Reddy B.S.','37 Opinion-Expressed-by-Livestock-Farmers-on-Para-Veterinarians-in-Rendering-Livestock-Services-in-Bidar-and-Kalaburagi-District-of-Kalyana-Karnataka-Channappa-37.pdf','',1,'The study was conducted in Kalyana Karnataka during 2021 to 2022. The exploratory and ex-post-facto research designs were used to assess the opinion of the livestock farmers about the delivery of veterinary services, provided by the department of animal husbandry. The department of animal husbandry deals with the welfare of livestock and is responsible for matters related to livestock six dimensions general opinion of farmers on the para veterinarian, management of animals, breeding services, health services, feeding management and advisory services. Information was collected with the help of pretested and well-structured interview schedule from 60 farmers, who had at least one milch animal at the time of the investigation. The overall result depicts that 43.34 per cent of farmers had the medium opinion of rendering livestock services on para veterinarians followed by high (35.00 %) and low (21.66 %). Due to their average age and expertise, para veterinarians tend to actively participate in activities at the field level, which may explain the shift from medium to high level.','Animal health services, livestock farmer opinion, para veterinarians','It is evident from the findings that the majority of farmers were having a medium to the high level of opinion regarding veterinary services. It is time to ensure the in-time availability of veterinary services at farmers’ doors. It is only possible by reducing the coverage area under each hospital and by establishing more mobile veterinary units so that veterinary service reaches every door free of cost. It is desired that veterinary officers not only concentrate on the treatment of animals but also on extension activities like consultancy services for scientific animal husbandry practices and awareness campaigns about loans, and insurance of animals, they should feel able to seek relevant support, through identifiable routes, where people are in difficulty and, as a result, are unable to care appropriately for livestock to make the dairy venture profitable for farmers. ','-','Channappa, Goudappa S.B., Chandargi D.M., Shivanand K., Jag Jiwan Ram and Reddy B.S. (2023). Opinion Expressed by Livestock Farmers on Para Veterinarians in Rendering Livestock Services in Bidar and Kalaburagi District of Kalyana Karnataka. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 15(2): 220-224.'),(6087,'149','Path of Productivity among Stay Green and High RGR Heterotic Group derived F1s of Cotton (Gossypium hirsutum L.)','Nikhila and S.S. Patil','Path-of-Productivity-among-Stay-Green-and-High-RGR-Heterotic-Group-derived-F1s-of-Cotton-(Gossypium-hirsutum-L.pdf','',1,'Path of productivity is an approach that helps in the identification of the traits that are responsible for the productivity of the top genotypes. The ten top potential-derived F1s and ten least potential-derived F1s were considered as two groups and their means for each character were expressed as per cent deviation from the overall mean of the derived hybrids. These per cent deviation values help in identifying the important yield contributing traits responsible for high productivity seen in top potential genotypes as well as low productivity seen in least potential genotypes. In the top potential genotypes, the yield-attributing traits showed a positive per cent deviation from the group mean and in the ten least potential genotypes the yield-attributing traits showed a negative per cent deviation from the group mean.','Derived F1s, genotypes, path of productivity, per cent deviation','The deviation of positive or negative would reflect on the nature of genes ultimately contributing towards the yield. Two sets of genotypes differing in their paths to productivity can be used in hybridization to bring together the different genes responsible for higher yields that are present in them. Superior segregants can be isolated later from such a cross. With the comparison of both the top and bottom crosses, we may say that there is a modified path of productivity for the superiority and inferiority of genotypes.','-','Nikhila and S.S. Patil (2023). Path of Productivity among Stay Green and High RGR Heterotic Group derived F1s of Cotton (Gossypium hirsutum L.). Biological Forum – An International Journal, 15(2): 225-229.'),(6088,'149','Microbiological Quality Assessment of Milk from Local Market in Suburban Regions of Nashik District','Rajendrabhai D. Vasait, Chandrashekhar S. Deore, Vikas V. Kshirsagar and Pooja A. Khadtale','Microbiological-Quality-Assessment-of-Milk-from-Local-Market-in-Suburban-Regions-of-Nashik-District-Rajendrabhai-D-Vasait-39.pdf','',1,'High-quality milk and milk products are becoming increasingly popular. As a result, all market participants must ensure clean and high-quality milk production. There are vast opportunities for quality milk and milk products in Indian market. Quality milk production depends on the milking environment, the milker\'s hygiene, the cleanliness of the milking animals, and the container or packaging of the milk. Contamination of milk is largely due to an unhygienic environment, poor milk handling practices, and milk adulteration. This study was planned to investigate the microbiological quality and safety of milk samples from local market. The samples were assessed for the microbiological quality of milk, including physiochemical parameters, the methylene blue dye reduction test (MBRT), the standard plate count (SPC), the detection of Salmonella and Shigella species, the presence of coliforms, and molds. After 3 days of storage, a higher SPC of 121 × 109 cfu/ml was detected in milk sample. A considerable number of coliform organisms were also found in the sample. ','Local market milk, Standard plate count, Most probable number, Microbiological quality','Total of five samples were collected and assessed subsequently for three days. Principal microbiological quality checking tests were followed, and few samples were detected for the presence of microbes. Considerable bacterial count in samples, suggest improper sanitary measures (Amistu et al., 2015). The samples were found to be positive for the presence of the coliform group of organisms, suggesting the possibility of contamination of samples (Jeppu et al., 2015). Adoption of appropriate sanitary measures and standard operating practices needs to be considerable (Melese and Addisu 2015; Chatli et al., 2014; Amistu et al., 2015). These results indicated that the milk samples will meet microbiological quality and that it is essential to follow the prescribed standard operating practices in the interest of consumers (Islam et al., 2021). This study highlights the significance of milk pre- and post-process management in terms of consumer health concerns.','-','Rajendrabhai D. Vasait, Chandrashekhar S. Deore, Vikas V. Kshirsagar and Pooja A. Khadtale (2023). Microbiological Quality Assessment of Milk from Local Market in Suburban Regions of Nashik District. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 15(2): 230-235.'),(6089,'149','Pharmacognostic Characterisation of E. thymifolia L. (Euphorbiaceae) a Unani Medicinal Herb','Sameera Ahrar Ahmad and Prabha Yadao Bhogaonkar ','Pharmacognostic-Characterisation-of-E.-thymifolia-L-40.pdf','',1,'Government of India recognized the traditional systems of medicine and practices like Siddha, Yoga, Homeopathy, Unani and Ayurveda. Unani system of medicine is followed and adopted in many countries. Minerals and plants are used as a source of medicine in this system. In spite of many merits and sustainable effects, Unani folk medicine is losing its charm in this modern world of synthetic medicine which offers instant relief but has many side effects. However, in case of traditional/folk medicine, proper characterization of the plant concerned remains the goal for effective therapy. The present study was aimed to characterize Euphorbia thymifolia L. (Euphorbiaceae) used in folk medicinal system and tradition. It is known as Dudhi locally and Dudhi Khurd in unani. The plant is used by hakims to treat diseases like kidney stone, leprosy, menorrhagia, leucorrhaea and whitlow in Amravati district, Maharashtra. Here pharmacognostic studies of the herb has been done. To know the presence of various bioactive molecules, free amino acid composition and minerals, phytochemical analysis were made. Anatomy of all the plant parts is studied as it is necessary to authenticate the drug. Use and information of internet was not common during my research as it is today and so searching for the related paper was hectic. Different libraries were visited, searched journals and books for the information. The major work done was on anatomy and so many plants were like no information was available about the anatomical studies and that too of the whole plant. Still don’t saw any paper on anatomical studies of whole plant. Leaf morphology was done only by some. So I did the anatomical study of whole plant and can say that its done for the first time.','Euphorbia thymifolia L., Folk Medicinal herb, Pharmacognosy, Morphology, Anatomy, Phytochemistry','As the papers are surveyed it is found that anatomical work is not done of whole plant of E. thymifolia L. so it can be considered as the first time work on anatomy of whole plant. A good amount of phytochemical analysis is available about E. thymifolia. The detailed survey of literature showed that E. thymifolia L. is an important medicinal plant with many pharmacological spectrum. Lots of pharmacological studies have been carried out with extract of the different parts of the plant. The present paper found different references which summarizes about its analgesic, antimalarial, antimicrobial and hypoglycemic activity of E. thymifolia, phytochemical investigations and isolated principles from them, which can be investigated further to achieve lead molecules in the search of novel herbal drugs. The presence of medicinal properties makes enormous scope for future. Alkaloids are very important of known bioactive molecules. It also contains triterpenes along with alkaloids. Leucoanthocyanin is found in E. thymifolia. Many of the Euphorbia species are woody and therefore it is possible that this species though herbaceous, is also showing presence of leucoanthocyanin which is expected only in woody members. A cubins and iridoids, flavonoids, phenolics, steroids and triterpenoids are present. Protein free amino acid profile shows aspartic acid, tyrosine, apsergenine, dl –alanine, histidine, proline, valine, leucine. Quantitative analysis shows maximum amount of Calcium and minimum of sodium.','-','Sameera Ahrar Ahmad and Prabha Yadao Bhogaonkar (2023). Pharmacognostic Characterisation of E. thymifolia L. (Euphorbiaceae) a Unani Medicinal Herb. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 15(2): 236-241.'),(6090,'149','Effect of Biofertilizers and Growing Media on Survivability of Air Layers of Pomegranate (Punica granatum L.)','Sandhya M. Solanki, R.K. Jat, Radhika J. Lunagariya, Mohan Lal Jat and Mukesh Kumar','41 Effect-of-Biofertilizers-and-Growing-Media-on-Survivability-of-Air-Layers-of-Pomegranate-(Punica-granatum-L-41.pdf','',1,'An experiment entitled effect of biofertilizers and growing media on survivability of air layers of pomegranate (Punica granatum L.) was carried out under shade net house at College Farm, College of Horticulture, Jagudan during kharif, 2021 and laid out by FCRD with three repetitions. Finding regarding effect of biofertilizers and media on survivability of air layers is less hence the present experiment was conducted. It consists of two levels of biofertilizers along with five levels of media mixtures by volume basis. With respect to interaction effect treatment combinations B1G5(Bio NPK consortium + Soil + FYM + Vermicompost (1:1:1, v/v/v)) was found significantly superior for fresh weight of shoot and root (14.88 g and 3.95 g, respectively), dry weight of root (0.96 g) and maximum root to shoot ratio (0.27) on fresh weight basis at 75 DAP with survival percentage (100.00 % and 100.00 %) at 60 and 75 DAP, respectively. ','Pomegranate, Biofertilizers, Growing media, Air layer, Survivability','From the present study, it could be concluded that among the different biofertilizers and growing media combinations, bio NPK consortium and soil + FYM + vermicompost (1:1:1, v/v/v) were found to be superior for enhancing the survivability of pomegranate air layers as well as better root parameters along with gross return under net house condition. ','-','Sandhya M. Solanki, R.K. Jat, Radhika J. Lunagariya, Mohan Lal Jat and Mukesh Kumar (2023). Effect of Biofertilizers and Growing Media on Survivability of Air Layers of Pomegranate (Punica granatum L.). Biological Forum – An International Journal, 15(2): 241-245.'),(6091,'149','A Molecular Docking Study of Indirubin against Hyperlipidemia','Anant Kumar Patel','A-Molecular-Docking-Study-of-Indirubin-against-Hyperlipidemia-Anant-Kumar-Patel-42.pdf','',1,'A known risk factor for cardiovascular disease is hyperlipidemia. Herbal therapy for hyperlipidemia is popular because it has fewer adverse effects, is less costly, and is readily available. Several medicinal herbs have been shown in studies to lower blood cholesterol levels by decreasing the action of 3-hydroxy-3-methylglutaryl coenzyme A reductase (HMG-CoA). However, conducting direct studies in animals and humans to evaluate the efficacy of herbal medicines for hyperlipidemia raises ethical concerns. Therefore, in silico studies are needed to evaluate the safety and efficacy of phytoconstituents before animal studies and human clinical trials are conducted. This problem can be solved by using insilico studies. Molecular docking has become increasingly important as a method for drug discovery. Molecular docking can be used to mimic the interaction between a small molecule and a protein at the atomic level. This allows us to define the behaviour of small molecules at the binding sites of target proteins and shed light on important biochemical processes. Molecular docking plays an important role in the search for new drugs at significantly lower cost and faster pace. Aim: The aim of study is to evaluate natural products against hyperlipidemia using molecular docking. Material and Natural products were selected after reading various literature sources. For each chemical, a molecular structure file was obtained from the PubChem database. The crystal structure of the protein (PDB ID: 1HW9) was obtained from the Protein Data Bank. The protein molecule was freed from all bound components (ligands and cofactors) and solvent molecules. Active binding sites were identified using the Biovia Discovery programme. PyRx was used to perform docking experiments for natural products against the 1HW9 protein. Results of molecular docking study shows that indirubin has a more negative binding energy value than atorvastatin and it binds more strongly to the receptor HMG-CoA. In this study, numerous bioactive compounds were screened using the Lipinski five rule, and indirubin was found to be more stable toward HMG-CoA than atorvastatin. It can be concluded that the indirubin has the potential to act as an antihyperlipidemic drug. ','Dyslipidemia, Molecular Docking, Bioactive, Hyperlipidemia, Indirubin','Currently, hyperlipidemia is a major problem. Conventional treatments can have harmful side effects. This fact has aroused interest in alternative cures, especially in industrialized nations. In nature, there are a variety of healing plants and herbs. More than 200 plants are traditionally used for the prevention and treatment of hyperlipidemia. The relationship between lowering low-density lipoproteins and lower mortality from cardiovascular disease is well known. The lipid-lowering effects of medicinal plants are currently being studied worldwide as part of phytomedicine research for these diseases. However, there are a few herbs that can help people with the aforementioned conditions. The antihyperlipidemic properties of plants are crucial for reducing atherosclerosis. As a result, there is growing interest in natural lipid-lowering therapies. The antihyperlipidemic effects of traditional medicinal plants in many populations are of greater benefit for the development of new drugs to prevent dyslipidemia or atherosclerosis. The bioactive components of herbal medicine may be able to control the multifaceted intervention in lipid metabolism that occurs during the uptake, production, transport, and excretion of cholesterol. The main findings on the use of herbal medicines are positive and suggest potential applications of these drugs in a variety of patient populations. Alkaloids, saponins, polyphenols, and flavonoids are some of the many active ingredients. In addition, the bioactive ingredients in herbal medicines are generally safe and well tolerated. In general, the bioactive constituents of herbal medicines have a variety of mechanisms of action that allow them to alter various metabolic pathways and control plasma lipid levels. Overall, the use of herbal molecules to treat hyperlipidemia offers a potential alternative to statins that may be safer and provide additional health benefits. However, further research is needed to fully understand the mechanisms behind the lipid-lowering effects of these molecules and to determine their optimal use in clinical practice.','-','Anant Kumar Patel (2023). A Molecular Docking Study of Indirubin against Hyperlipidemia. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 15(2): 246-255.'),(6092,'149','Childrenese–Child-Friendly Language for Dental Drill in Pediatric Dental Practice - A Questionnaire Survey','Umamaheswari N., Saranyan R., BabyJohn. J. and Raj Mohan M.','Childrenese–Child-Friendly-Language-for-Dental-Drill-in-Pediatric-Dental-Practice-A-Questionnaire-Survey-Umamaheswari-N-43.pdf','',1,'In Pediatric Dentistry, Several researchers have emphasized the importance of the development of child-friendly communication with pediatric dental patients. The term “Euphemism” is the mild expressions that substitute words which may be fearful or suggest unpleasantness are often used to create a positive rapport and make the dental procedure more acceptable to a dental patient. The terminology and the sound of dental drill induces children’s anxiety and annoyance increase. Although there are studies which give word substitutes or phrases (euphemisms) that are used to describe dental office procedures and instruments, the real challenge is to find the child friendly language for dental drill which can make the dental procedure more acceptable to the child. The study first of its kind was undertaken to identify the terminology/substitute word used for dental drill and preferred sound for masking the noise of dental drill by the pediatric dental practitioners by conducting questionnaire survey. A questionnaire survey was conducted among pediatric dentist in India to determine which word and sound can be substituted for dental drill for pediatric dentist use to alleviate the child’s anxiety regarding dental drill and in establishing healthy relationships with their child patients. Out of 651 pediatric dentists 427 responded to a mailed survey. The survey consisted of 10 questions. The results suggested that the preferred Child-Friendly language for dental drill are Dragon fly, tooth cleaner (substitution word) and Dragon fly sound (substitution sound) and this sound can be used as a sound masker for dental drill sound in near future to reduce the children’s anxiety and annoyance. ','Dental drill, Dental anxiety, Substitution word, Sound masking, Child-friendly','Although various behavior management strategies have been used in Pediatric dentistry, effective communication with child patients has evolved over the years and complex vocabularies have been developed. The present study attempted to present the need of current state-of-the-art of euphemistic language for dental drill in pediatric dental practice. It is widely recognized that proper communication with the child patient forms an integral part of present day pediatric dental care. Even though there is a wide diversity in the terminology utilized by the responding pediatric dentist to describe dental drill, the results of this study have demonstrated that the terminology that is currently encountered in pediatric dentistry as substitution word for dental drill are Dragon fly and tooth cleaner. By being aware of the terminology that is currently encountered in pediatric dentistry, practicing dentists will be able to compare and contrast the terminology that they use in their dental practice. Perhaps, dentists who find it difficult to establish positive relationships with child patients will now have a more complete repertoire of terminology which may aid them in achieving better cooperation while using the dental drill.\r\nIn our present study, Dragon fly Hiss sound is considered as a substitution sound for dental drill and this sound can be used as a sound masker for dental drill sound. \r\n','-','Umamaheswari N., Saranyan R., BabyJohn. J. and Raj Mohan M. (2023). Childrenese– Child-Friendly Language for Dental Drill in Pediatric Dental Practice - A Questionnaire Survey. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 15(2): 256-261.'),(6093,'149','Impact of various Transplanting Dates, Seedling Spacing and Seedling Numbers on Growth, Yield Attributes and Yield of Hybrid Rice (Oryza sativa)','Vishnu Moond, Sushila Choudhary, Vijay Laxmi Yadav, Raja Ram Bunker, Manoj Kumar Shukla and Ashish Raja Jangid\r\n','Impact-of-various-Transplanting-Dates,-Seedling-Spacing-and-Seedling-Numbers-on-Growth,-Yield-Attributes-and-Yield-of-Hybrid-Rice-(Oryza-sativa)-Vishnu-Moond-44.pdf','',1,'A field study was conducted in Selaqui, Dehradun (Uttarakhand), at the Crop Research Farm, Department of Agronomy, Maya College of Agriculture and Technology, during the 2016 kharif season. The experiment included 18 treatments, including 3 transplanting dates (15 July, 27 July, and 09 August), 2 seedling rates (1 seedling hill-1 and 2 seedling hill-1) and 3 spacings (20 × 10 cm, 20 × 15 cm and 20 × 20 cm). The experiment was replicated three times and set up using a randomized block design. The test crop was rice of the \"Arize 6444 variety\". Treatment T6-15 July + 20 × 20 cm + 2 seedling hill-1 obtained significantly higher growth (plant height and dry matter at harvest, yield attributes (number of effective tillers hill-1, panicle length, grains panicle-1 and test weight), grain yield (63.33 q ha-1) and straw yield (80.67 q ha-1) of rice.','Date of transplanting, Growth, Hybrid rice, Spacing, Yield attributes and Yield','Rice transplanted at 15 July + 20 × 20 cm + 2 seedling hill-1 obtained significantly higher growth (plant height and dry matter at harvest, yield attributes (number of effective tillers hill-1, panicle length, grains panicle-1 and test weight) and yield (grain and straw).','-','Vishnu Moond, Sushila Choudhary, Vijay Laxmi Yadav, Raja Ram Bunker, Manoj Kumar Shukla and Ashish Raja Jangid (2023). Impact of various Transplanting Dates, Seedling Spacing and Seedling Numbers on Growth, Yield Attributes and Yield of Hybrid Rice (Oryza sativa). Biological Forum – An International Journal, 15(2): 262-266.'),(6094,'149','Long-term Effect of Organic and Chemical Sources of Nutrients on Yield and Economics of Pearl Millet in Inceptisols of Gird Region of Madhya Pradesh','S.L. Yadav, G.K. Sharma, S.S. Yadav, S.K. Trivedi, P.A. Khambalkar and R. Jat','Long-term-Effect-of-Organic-and-Chemical-Sources-of-Nutrients-on-Yield-and-Economics-of-Pearl-Millet-in-Inceptisols-of-Gird-Region-of-Madhya-Pradesh-SL-Yadav-45.pdf','',1,'The studies on the long-term effect of the application of organic and chemical sources of nutrients in pearl millet were conducted at a research farm, Department of Soil Science and Agricultural Chemistry, College of Agriculture, Gwalior, (M.P.) during Kharif 2020 and 2021 with nine treatments replicated thrice in RBD. An essential component of crop production is the balanced use of fertilizers. Farmers are using straight chemical fertilizers in an imbalanced manner This imbalanced, excessive use of fertilizers, or the use of purely inorganic fertilizers, has resulted in a negative impact on soil health, fertility and productivity. In order to improve soil health and ecosystem services, the study was conducted to implement strategies that integrate the use of inorganic substances and organic manures, as well as a combination of both. The results indicated that integration of vermicompost @5t ha-1 + 50% RDF resulted in achieving significantly higher grain yield (2779 kg ha-1), straw yield (6921 kg ha-1), harvest index (28.7%) gross return (`92114 ha-1) and net return (`66929 ha-1) of pearl millet on the pooled mean basis in comparison to absolute FYM @20 t ha-1 or vermicompost @10 t ha-1 or 100% RDF alone or their graded combinations. The benefit: cost ratio of pearl millet was recorded at par with the integration of FYM @ 10t ha-1 with 50% RDF, FYM @ 5t ha-1 with 75% RDF, vermicompost @ 5t ha-1 with 50% RDF, vermicompost @ 2.5 t ha-1 with 75% RDF and absolute chemical but they were found significantly higher than the treatments with absolute FYM or Vermicompost or their integration with 25% RDF. This study contributed to the fact that the integration of sources of nutrients gives better results in terms of improving the soil health, soil fertility, biological ecosystem of the soil, which ultimately will increase the production and economics of the crop.','Vermicompost, FYM, organic nutrients, chemical nutrients, NPK, productivity, pearl millet','Field experiments were carried out from Kharif 2020 to Kharif 2021 to assess the effect of organic and chemical sources of nutrients and their combinations on the yield and economics of pearl millet in Inceptisols of the Gird region of Madhya Pradesh. The principal findings revealed that the integrated application of vermicompost (@5t/ha with 50% NPK gave significantly higher grain yield, straw yield and harvest index of pearl millet followed by FYM @10 t/ha with 50% NPK. Also, the integrated application of vermicompost (@5t/ha with 50% NPK gave a higher net return and B:C ratio of pearl millet followed by FYM @10 t/ha with 50 % NPK.','-','S.L. Yadav, G.K. Sharma, S.S. Yadav, S.K. Trivedi, P.A. Khambalkar and R. Jat (2023). Long-term Effect of Organic and Chemical Sources of Nutrients on Yield and Economics of Pearl Millet in Inceptisols of Gird Region of Madhya Pradesh. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 15(2): 267-270.'),(6095,'149','Encapsulation of Vegetable Oils for Enhancing Oxidative Stability of PUFA','S.S. Bhuva and N.K. Dhamsaniya','Encapsulation-of-Vegetable-Oils-for-Enhancing-Oxidative-Stability-of-PUFA-S.S.-Bhuva-46.pdf','',1,'Vegetable oils are rich in essential fatty acids such as, mono-unsaturated and poly-unsaturated fatty acids which encourage the preservation of the quality. Poly-unsaturated fatty acids (PUFAs) have exceptional benefits in development and growth, brain functioning and disease control in humans. The reactions like oxidation, isomerization and polymerization change fatty acids profile, which further contribute to degradation in quality of vegetable oils and development of off-flavour in food products. Encapsulation of vegetable oils provides oxidative stability by preventing direct contact of oxygen, light, radicals and heat to the oil. It offers functional barrier to oxidation and masking of unfavorable flavors. Several techniques like, spray-drying, freeze drying, microwave drying, coacervation, particles from gas saturated solution (PGSS) and other improved and innovative techniques have been successfully applied to encapsulate vegetable oils. The process parameters with its effect on efficiency has been reviewed for different techniques. Further, the application of encapsulated vegetable oils in various food products has been explored. From the review, the encapsulation stabilize the vegetable oils from the auto-oxidation. Improvement in peroxide value was observed during storage of encapsulated vegetable oils. Dairy and bakery products were successfully enriched with PUFAs by incorporating vegetable oil encapsulates. The pilot scale production and in-depth study of the feasibility of encapsulating vegetable oils is required.','Encapsulation, Oil powders, Oxidative stability, PUFA, Vegetable oils','Higher demand of vegetable oils as a source of PUFA was observed due to their health benefits and higher number of vegan and vegetarian diet. The susceptibility of PUFA rich vegetable oils to oxidative degradation has questioned the technologists for its preservation through encapsulation. The liquid form of oil can successfully be entrapped into a gel or powder matrix in various ways such as spray drying, freeze drying, microwave drying, coacervation, PGSS process and other innovative and novel techniques. Selection of wall materials which are majorly combination of polysaccharides and proteins is prominent step in the encapsulation process. Encapsulation of the PUFA rich vegetable oils would be a promising approach to increase the oxidative stability for their processing and storage. Further, the composition of fatty acids has not been affected significantly by encapsulation. The encapsulated oil particles have a wide applications especially in food industries like, dairy, bakery and meat where the replacement of fat or enrichment of beneficial fatty acids are the major concern. Encapsulates were acceptable by consumers for flavour and taste attributes on incorporation in food products. The vegetable oil encapsulates are biodegradable, pollution free, environment friendly and favor controlled release.','-','S.S. Bhuva and N.K. Dhamsaniya (2023). Encapsulation of Vegetable Oils for Enhancing Oxidative Stability of PUFA. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 15(2): 271-284.'),(6096,'149','Molecular characterization and Phylogenetic Analysis of Viruses Associated with Garlic and Onion in Punjab, India','Irfan Khan and Abhishek Sharma','Molecular-characterization-and-Phylogenetic-Analysis-of-Viruses-Associated-with-Garlic-and-Onion-in-Indian-Punjab-Irfan-Khan-47.pdf','',1,'Garlic and onion grown in Punjab, India are generally infected with several viruses, including the common alliumviruses of the genera Allexivirus, Potyvirus and Carlavirus, and these were responsible for drastic yield losses. Onion Yellow Dwarf Virus (OYDV), Shallot Latent Virus (SLV) and Garlic Virus D (GarV-D) were identified by RT-PCR assay using virus-speciﬁc primer sets. BLASTn analysis of sequences confirmed the presence of OYDV and GarV-D, SLV in infected onion and garlic samples, respectively. During BLASTn analysis, OYDV isolate (KP862051) shared 98-99% identity with OYDV isolates (KP862053, KP862052) from Ludhiana and 97% similarity with OYDV isolate (FR833734) from New Delhi. Whereas in the case of garlic viruses, SLV (KR074209) had 91% similarity to SLV isolate (EF600902) from New Delhi, and GarV-D isolate (KR045606) showed a maximum resemblance of 99% with GarV-D isolate (HQ724840) from Spain. OYDV isolate (KP862051) shared 79% nt identity with Rajasthan isolate (EU045556), and 72.9% with New Delhi isolate (FR873734), GarV-D isolates (KR045606) shared a maximum 99.5% nt similarity with Spain isolate (HQ724840) and SLV isolate (KR074209) shared 90.8 nt similarities with New Delhi isolate (EF600902). Phylogenetic analysis of nucleotide sequences revealed that Indian isolates of OYDV and GarV-D have the closest phylogenetic relationship with Indian and abroad isolates; however, SLV isolate (KR074209) was found to be significantly divergent from abroad isolates. Phylogenetic analysis confirms the evolutionary origin of OYDV and SLV from Indian ancestors and GarV-D origin from Spain isolates. Present investigation unravels the virus diversity, subgrouping, and evolutionary history within the alliumviruses in India.','Alliumviruses, Characterization, Phylogenetic, Onion and Garlic','GarV-D, OYDV, and SLV have been identified as the viruses associated with samples of garlic and onions based on their closest phylogenetic relationships and highest nucleotide identities. Phylogenetic analysis confirms the evolutionary origin of OYDV and SLV from Indian ancestors and GarV-D origin from Spain isolates. Phylogenetic analysis of the Indian isolates provided updating on viral species subgrouping and evolutionary process. Present investigation unravels the virus diversity, subgrouping, evolutionary history within the allium viruses in India.','-','Irfan Khan and Abhishek Sharma (2023). Molecular characterization and Phylogenetic Analysis of Viruses Associated with Garlic and Onion in Punjab, India. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 15(2): 285-290.'),(6097,'149','A Correlation and Path-Coefficient Analysis of Components of Indigenous Collections of Finger millet (Eleusine coracana (L.) Gaertn) under varied Edaphic conditions','Rakesh Kumar, Shweta, Aman Mishra, Pooja Tiwari, Pramod Kumar Prajapati and Devesh Yadav','A-Correlation-and-Path-Coefficient-Analysis-of-Components-of-Indigenous-Collections-of-Finger-millet-(Eleusine-coracana-(L.)-Gaertn)-under-varied-Edaphic-conditions-Rakesh Kumar-48.pdf','',1,'The present investigation was carried out for fifty finger millet genotypes that were tested for four different environments viz., E1 and E2 at Student Research Farm, C.S.A.U.A. &T. Kanpur and E3 and E4 sown at Research Farm, Daleep Nagar, Kanpur. The genotypes were evaluated in randomized block design with three replications to derive Correlation coefficient and Direct and Indirect effects in fifty different genotypes of finger millet to estimate analysis of variance, mean, correlation and path analysis. Analysis of Variance showed significant differences for all characters under study at 1% and 5% Level of Significance, indicated that presence of ample genetic variation among genotypes. Association studies revealed that grain yield per plant exhibited highly significant positive correlation at genotypic level with number of fingers per ear, ear head weight, straw yield per plant, harvest index and 1000 grain weight for all the environments and pooled and harvest index for E1 showed maximum positive direct effect (0.919) followed by E2 (0.899), straw yield per plant for E2 (0.830). Path studies reported that grain yield per plant showed positive direct effect with all the characters except days to maturity and earhead width at both genotypic and phenotypic level. Thus, these traits are identified as the efficient and potential for indirect selection for the improvement of productivity in the present experimental material. The challenge of the study is to find out the character associations to the yield and to estimate the direct and indirect effects of each character on yield. Ultimate aim is to enhance the yield and also enhance the quality of grain. ','Finger millet, Correlation, Path-Coefficient, Genotype, Yield attributes','The correlation coefficient and path coefficient study revealed that grain yield per plant exhibited significant positive correlation with number of productive tillers per plant, number of fingers per ear, finger length, ear head width, ear head weight, straw yield per plant, harvest index and 1000 grain weight. It can be concluded that biological yield/plant, 1000 seed weight and oil content are the major yield contributing traits and must be considered during selection.','-','Rakesh Kumar, Shweta, Aman Mishra, Pooja Tiwari, Pramod Kumar Prajapati and Devesh Yadav (2023). A Correlation and Path-Coefficient Analysis of Components of Indigenous Collections of Finger millet (Eleusine coracana (L.)Gaertn) under varied Edaphic Conditions. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 15(2): 291-301.'),(6098,'149','Influence of various Carbon and Nitrogen Sources on Mycelial Growth of Fusarium oxysporum f. sp. lini','Yashowardhan Singh, Jayant Bhatt, Vijay Kumar Yadav, Sanjay Kharte and Swarna Kurmi','Influence-of-various-Carbon-and-Nitrogen-Sources-on-Mycelial-Growth-of-Fusarium-oxysporum-f.-sp.-lini-Yashowardhan-Singh-49.pdf','',1,'Linseed is the oilseed crop with the greatest omega-3 fatty acid content. It also contains a lot of protein, fiber and 45-50% oil contain. Fusarium oxysporum f. sp. lini causes Fusarium wilts in linseed. This disease is mostly soil-borne, but it may also be seed-borne. In studying the influence of various carbon and nitrogen sources on mycelial growth of Fusarium oxysporum f. sp. lini is the need to control for other factors such as temperature, pH, and light intensity, which can also affect fungal growth. Despite these challenges, research on the influence of carbon and nitrogen sources on fungal growth has contributed significantly to our understanding of fungal physiology and metabolism. By identifying the optimal growth conditions for F. oxysporum f. sp. lini, researchers can improve fungal culture methods and develop more effective strategies for controlling Fusarium wilt disease in linseed plants. In this work, four carbon and seven nitrogen compounds were examined In vitro to determine the nutritional requirements of the linseed wilt fungus Fusarium oxysporum f. sp. lini. Maximum mycelial growth was found in fructose to the influence of different carbon sources on the development of the test pathogen. Fructose followed by D-glactose, Mannital, and Glucose. All of the carbon sources used was superior to control. Potassium nitrate was determined to be the most suitable nitrogen source for growth of F. oxysporum f. sp. lini, followed by ammonium acetate. When compared to the control, the total nutrition considerably affected the development of test fungus under in vitro condition.','Fusarium oxysporum f. sp. lini, linseed, carbon and nitrogen, mycelial growth','The mycelial growth of Fusarium oxysporum f. sp. lini showed significant variation when different nitrogen and carbon nutritional sources were used. Fructose, as a carbon source, was shown to be favourable for mycelial growth. Potassium nitrate was shown to be the best nitrogen source for mycelial development. The results show which nutrients can increase the virulence of Fusarium oxysporum f. sp. lini. This study can be further expanded by investigating the effect of different environmental conditions, such as temperature, pH, and light intensity, on the growth and pathogenicity of F. oxysporum f. sp. lini. Additionally, the study can be extended to identify potential antifungal agents that can effectively control Fusarium wilt disease in linseed plants. Such studies can help in the development of more efficient and sustainable strategies for controlling this devastating disease.','-','Yashowardhan Singh, Jayant Bhatt, Vijay Kumar Yadav, Sanjay Kharte and Swarna Kurmi (2023). Influence of various Carbon and Nitrogen Sources on Mycelial Growth of Fusarium oxysporum f. sp. lini. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 15(2): 302-307.'),(6099,'149','Evaluation for Bio Efficacy of different Ecofriendly components of IDM for Charcoal Rot of Maize incited by Macrophomina phaseolina (Tassi) Goid','Mallaiah B., Bhadru D., Sreelatha D., Lavakumar M., Nagesh Kumar V.M., Vani Sree K., Siva Lakshimi Y. and Sekhar J.C.','Evaluation-for-Bio-Efficacy-of-Different-Ecofriendly-components-of-IDM-for-Charcoal-Rot-of-Maize-incited-by-Macrophomina-phaseolina-(Tassi)-Goid-Mallaiah-B-50-4041.pdf','',1,'Charcoal rot of maize is a widely distributed throughout the world causing sever economic losses and incited by the fungal pathogen Macrophomina phaseolina. The main objective of this experiment is toidentify the important IDM components to control charcoal rot disease of maizeunder field condition. Out of different componental treatments tested, the treatment invoving Soil application of Vermicompost enriched with T. viride (2 × 109 cfu/g)@250kg/ha was found to be the best treatment in terms of disease reduction (65 %) and increased grain yield (39%) with heighest C:B ratio of 1:1.35. However, the treatment involving foliar application of Azoxystrobin 18.2% w/w + Difenoconazole 11.4% w/w SC @0.1% at knee high stage was very closely follows in terms of disease reduction (56%) and grain yield improvement (29%) with C:B ratio of(1:1.34). Othar components like Chitosan and VAM also recorded significantly good results interms of disease reduction (54.5%, 49.4%) and grain yield improvement of (32.3%, 34.6%) indicating their potentiality to utilize them in integrated charcoal rot management of maize.','Chitosan, Macrophomina phaseolina, Maize stalk rot, Trichoderma viride','The results from the experiment indicates that the components like soil application of vermicompost enriched with T. viride, foliar application of chitosan, soil application of VAM and foliar application of Azoxystrobin 18.2% w/w + Difenoconazole 11.4% are vital components that can play a very important role in integrated management of charcoal rot of maize.','-','Mallaiah B., Bhadru D., Sreelatha D., Lavakumar M., Nagesh Kumar V.M., Vani Sree K., Siva Lakshimi Y. and Sekhar J.C. (2023). Evaluation for Bio Efficacy of Different Ecofriendly components of IDM for Charcoal Rot of Maize incited by Macrophomina phaseolina (Tassi) Goid. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 15(2): 308-311.'),(6100,'149','Biodiversity of Spiders in Kanyakumari District, Tamilnadu, India','Prakash Shoba S., Mergin Nisha S., Jebisha J., Punitha A. and Anitha C. ','Biodiversity-of-Spiders-in-Kanyakumari-District,-Tamilnadu,-India-Prakash-Shoba-51.pdf','',1,'Biodiversity refers to all the population species and communities in defined area. According to the recent studies, the spider plays an important role in ecological balance and considered to be the ecological indicators. Spiders are the group of terrestrial predators and complicated by their wide biodiversity strategies. There high abundance and diversity of microhabitats allow for their effective in the environment. Arthropods are mainly representing the largest number of the biotic diversity in the world. This study to focused the spider population as they represented as a invertebrate from this ecosystem. They are the important of biological indicators, they have a habitat modification due to the short generation, temperature and moisture changes. This study is attempted to investigates the identified the status of spider population and their species. The selected area in Kanyakumari district is depend on the spider fauna diversity is more or less natural habitat without much human intervention and rich in floral communities. Spiders are observed and the photograph were taken and recorded. The study was made from August to November 2022. From the study area have 60 species belonging to 25 families and 42 genera in the class of Arachnidae. Family diversity of spider species were recorded Araneidae (11 species), Sparassidae (8 species), Salticidae (8 species), Pisauridae (4 species), Lycosidae (4 species), Scycotidae (2 species), Agelenidae (2 species), Thomisidae (2 species), Theraphosidae (2 species), Oxyopidae (2 species). The study revealed that study area is consist of spider species are highest number in Araneidae family, and remaining the families are sparassidae and salticidae. The results of the study indicated the need of the conservation of biodiversity in a selected area. Spiders are an essential part of the ecosystem. They are crucial in controlling insect populations in every ecosystem and help in the crop land from predators and acts like a biological indicator. The challenges of this study could be the impact of urbanisation and urban habitats not preferable for different biological communities compared to natural habitats. Ashuman populations changing their natural habitats, the importance of spiders in natural habitat reduced the survival of spiders.','Biodiversity, Spiders, Ecosystem, Species, Predator','Spider are playing a very important role in the ecosystem. Spiders are high abundance and diversity of microhabitats allow their effect in the environment. They serve as important connection between trophic level and several are important indicators of changing the environment. Spiders are occupied by a considerable portion of animal life of the diversity of group. Arthropods are mainly representing the largest number of the biotic diversity in the world. This investigation on terrestrial spider diversity in selected area of Kanyakumari district, one with rich vegetation and another with less vegetation area proved that faunal diversity is depends to the flora diversity.','-','Prakash Shoba S., Mergin Nisha S., Jebisha J., Punitha A. and Anitha C. (2023). Biodiversity of Spiders in Kanyakumari District, Tamilnadu, India. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 15(2): 312-322.'),(6101,'149','Optimization of Carotenoid Production from Microbacterium oleivorans SAA1517and its Application as Fish Feed','Samruddhi J. Patil and Anuradha S. Pendse','Optimization-of-Carotenoid-Production-from-Microbacterium-oleivorans-SAA1517and-its-Application-as-Fish-Feed-Samruddhi-J.-Patil-52.pdf','',1,'Carotenoids are structurally and functionally diverse groups of pigments produced by plants, animals and microorganisms. These compounds have received considerable attention due to their sustainable nature and potential health benefits. The present study was carried out to screen carotenoid producing bacteria from diverse soil samples and optimize their yield. The most challenging aspect of the study was distinguishing between carotenoid-producing bacteria and non-carotenoid pigment-producing bacteria. In addition, the extraction of carotenoids posed some difficulty as it necessitated the use of organic solvents. The samples were collected from farm fields, mangrove and garden rhizosphere regions. Among the 18 isolates, Microbacterium oleivorans SAA1517, was identified as the most potential carotenoid producer based on spectrophotometric (showing λmax at 465nm), qualitative (ring test) and TLC (Rf value of 0.65) analysis. The gene sequence of this isolate was submitted to the gene bank (accession no LC224329). The novel strain produced a dark orange pigment and showed maximum yield in Luria Bertani medium containing galactose and sodium nitrate in 3:1 ratio. The pigment production was optimum at pH 7, temperature 30°C, shaker conditions (120rpm) and presence of 2% inoculum size (0.9 O.D545nm). Methanol was the most effective solvent for extraction of pigment. The antioxidant, antibacterial activity of the pigment, and its efficacy as feed supplement using goldfish were also evaluated. It showed good anti-oxidation potential with IC50 4.2μg/mL and significant antibacterial activity against Staphylococcus aureus, Streptococcus pyogenes, Proteus mirabilis and Pseudomonas aeruginosa. Determination of survival rate, weight gain, specific growth rate and feed conversion rate further confirmed that carotenoid supplements significantly improved the growth rate of goldfish. In the future, enhancing the fermentation conditions can significantly enhance the production of carotenoid pigments, which hold great promise as a natural and sustainable ingredient for fish feed in aquaculture. Additionally, incorporating bacterial carotenoids into fish feed has the potential to reduce the reliance on synthetic pigments and mitigate the environmental impact of aquaculture.','Carotenoids, Microbacterium oleivorans, optimum, pigment, screening','Considering the great demand of pigments in various industries, the use of microbial sources for its production is a practical as well as sustainable strategy to meet the market demands. Though the microbial production studies are in preliminary stages at present, it is a potential biotechnological tool. In this aspect, genetic engineering to strain improvement, genome engineering and fermentation strategies to scale-up production to industry level etc. play vital roles in maximizing the yield of microbial secondary metabolites. The carotenoid production ability of M. oleivorans SAA1517 was improved by 53.125% under optimized conditions in the present study. Comprehending the fact that the optimization studies carried out in 250ml shaker flasks under laboratory conditions enhanced the carotenoid production significantly in a non-photosynthetic bacterium, it is a potential candidate for scale up studies using larger fermenters.','-','Samruddhi J. Patil and Anuradha S. Pendse (2023). Optimization of Carotenoid Production from Microbacterium oleivorans SAA1517and its Application as Fish Feed. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 15(2): 323-332.'),(6102,'149','Transforming Fruit Farming in a hi-tech Way through Remote Sensing: A Review','Dushyant D. Champaneri, Ketan D. Desai, Timur R. Ahlawat and Nirav K. Pampaniya ','Transforming-Fruit-Farming-in-a-hi-tech-Way-through-Remote-Sensing-A-Review-Dushyant-D-53.pdf','',1,'Horticulture has emerged out as one of the potential agricultural enterprises in accelerating the economic growth. Its role in country\'s food and nutritional security, poverty alleviation and employment generation programmes is very crucial. Fruit crops are imperative part with its maximum production share in horticultural sector. These crops being capital as well as labour intensive, it is a wise step to use modern technologies for the development of fruit orchards and its true production potential. Remote sensing is a modern tool that can be an effective technology for site specific crop management in present time. Remote sensing is the process of acquiring data or information about objects or substances not in direct contact with the sensor by gathering its inputs using electromagnetic radiation that emanate from the targets of interest. These involves sensing and recording reflected or emitted energy and processing, analysing and applying that information for interpretations. Remote sensing can provide pivotal database for predicting important parameters using various models and tools which can be helpful to maintain potential yield of fruit crops. Careful consideration of sensors, platforms, vegetation indices, models and many other technicalities can make application of RS in fruit crops more effective and reliable. Here, an attempt has been made to address the gap in the use of remote sensing in Indian fruit farming and to offer potential solutions.','Crop classification, crop identification, diseases detection, insect-pest infestation estimation, nutrient content estimation, UAV based RS-GIS, vegetation indices, yield estimation','Remote sensing can play a vital role in precision fruit farming. This technology can effectively address the challenges of fruit cultivation and play a pivotal role for increment in fruit productivity. Implementation of UAV based hyperspectral remote sensing along with appropriate vegetation indices and artificial intelligence based machine learning analysis can accurately estimate or predict data in the aspects of plant classification, growth, yield, infestation and other parameters which can pave a path for effective farm planning and successful fruit production. Use of remote sensing in fruit farming is highly relatable with particular growing conditions and parameters to be estimated. Precise technical knowledge and accurate handling of all the components in remote sensing along with adequate dataset is necessary for successful application of remote sensing in fruit crops. Furthermore, the positive impact and benefits of remote sensing are more justifiable in large scale and repetitive site specific crop management. Proactive participation as well as financial aid from government and allied sector can promote successful and effective application remote sensing in developing countries. Change of mindset regarding use of latest technologies in agricultural sector along with work in regards to train manpower along and financial support is necessary for easy adoption of technology. Concrete research work and development of productive data base as well as standard crop specific methods in the aspects of remote sensing approach in fruit farming is necessary task for transferring these technologies from lab to land.','-','Dushyant D. Champaneri, Ketan D. Desai, Timur R. Ahlawat and Nirav K. Pampaniya (2023). Transforming Fruit Farming in a hi-tech Way through Remote Sensing: A Review. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 15(2): 333-341.'),(6103,'149','Lycianthes lysimachioides (Wall.) Bitter (Solanaceae): A New Addition to the Flora of Manipur, Northeast India','Kazhuhrii Eshuo','Lycianthes-lysimachioides-(Wall.)-Bitter-(Solanaceae)-A-New-Addition-to-the-Flora-of-Manipur,-Northeast-India-Kazhurii-Eshuo-54.pdf','',1,'The present paper deals with the taxon Lycianthes lysimachioides (Wall.) Bitter, reported here for the first time from Manipur State, Northeast India. The work on genus Lycianthes (Dunal) Hassl. in Manipur is poor and no literature record on taxonomic studies on this taxon is available. This is the first morpho-taxonomic work carried out on this taxon in Manipur state, Northeast India. The detailed morphological description and the photographs are provided along with their geographical distribution of Indian species of Lycianthes.','Lycianthes lysimachioides, Solanaceae, Morpho-taxonomic, New Addition, Manipur','The addition of a taxon Lycianthes lysimachioides (Wall.) Bitter to the flora of Manipur, Northeast India has enriched species diversity to genus Lycianthes of family Solanaceae. Previously, only 2 species of Lycianthes were reported from Manipur state flora. With the addition of this taxon, 3 species of Lycianthes viz., L. neesiana, L. laevis and L. lysimachioides are now been recorded to occur in the state flora of Manipur, Northeast India. ','-','Kazhuhrii Eshuo (2023). Lycianthes lysimachioides (Wall.) Bitter (Solanaceae): A New Addition to the Flora of Manipur, Northeast India. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 15(2): 342-345.'),(6104,'149','Trends in Production, Price Fluctuations of Ginger in Telangana and Five Major Ginger Producing States in India','Nandam Komala, P. Radhika, D. Srinivasa Reddy and K. Supriya','Trends-in-Production,-Price-Fluctuations--of-Ginger-in-Telangana-and-Five-Major-Ginger-Producing-States-in-India-NANDAM-KOMALA-55.pdf','',1,'Ginger rhizome is one of the major spices grown and consumed in India. India is the leading country in production and area of ginger having a share of 43.1 and 43. 6 per cent in the world. The present study was carried out considering Telangana as the study area. Though the farmers in Telangana are very much interested in cultivating ginger and are adopting it, they are discouraged by high costs of production and huge price fluctuations due to which farmers could not get expected returns. So the present study was conducted in Telangana along with five major ginger producing states in India for a period of 10 years from 2011 to 2020 and analyzed the trends in production and price fluctuations by using CAGR and percentages tools. The study revealed that there was a positive per cent increase in the production of ginger in all the considered states but compared to other states Telangana showed less growth rate ( CAGR of 2.19 per cent) in production as the area and productivity under ginger cultivation remained almost the same over the years. In case of trends in price fluctuations in all the states there is a positive per cent increase in price of ginger over the study period even though there were huge price fluctuations due to various factors year on year.','Ginger production, price fluctuations, Compound Annual Growth Rate, Trends, Ginger prices, Telangana','From the present study it can be noticed that the increase in production of ginger during the period 2011-2020 in Telangana was not even half of the increase in production in Assam, which had the lowest CAGR among the five major ginger producing states in India. Compared to other states Telangana showed less growth rate in production as the area and productivity under ginger cultivation remained almost the same over the years. Whereas even though there was a positive per cent increase in prices over the study period in all the considered states, there are huge per cent positive and negative changes in ginger prices due to various factors.','-','Nandam Komala, P. Radhika, D. Srinivasa Reddy and K. Supriya (2023). Trends in Production, Price Fluctuations of Ginger in Telangana and Five Major Ginger Producing States in India. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 15(2): 346-349.'),(6105,'149','Production and Composition of Nutrient Enriched Vermicompost Prepared from different Organic Materials and Minerals','Bhargava A., Sharma S.K. and Trivedi S.K.','Production-and-Composition-of-Nutrient-Enriched-Vermicompost-Prepared-from-different-Organic-Materials-and-Minerals-Bhargava-A.56.pdf','',1,'The continuous use of chemical fertilizers resulted in the decline in organic matter content of the agricultural soil leading to depletion of beneficial microorganisms which in turn reduced the soil productivity. Vermicompost is an organic fertilizer rich in nutrients, beneficial microorganisms, and plant growth harmones, which can not only promote crop growth, but also help improve the physical, chemical and biological characteristics of the soil. However, its low nutrient content makes it less popular with farmers and limits its applicability. This study, apparently the first of its kind, aimed to enrich the nutrient content of vermicompost by supplementing it with organic materials - Neem cake, Sesame cake, Binola cake, Groundnut cake, Mustard cake, Linseed cake, Wood ash, Banana peel, Poultry manure, Legume waste, Dry Neem Leaves with cow manure, and organic nutritional (Mineral mixtures) supplements (Lime stone, Rock phosphate, Dolomite, Gypsum, Potash Feldsphar Bone meal). The analysis of prepared enriched vermicompost was done using standard chemical methods. Results showed an enhanced Total Organic Carbon (TOC) - 33.0 %, Total Kjeldahl Nitrogen (TKN) 2.70%, Total Phosphorus (TP) 3.36%, Total Potassiume (TK) - 2.2%, Total Sulfur (1.32%) and micronutrients Zn (ppm)- 89, Cu (ppm) – 21, Fe (ppm) -400, Mn (ppm)-130, Ca (ppm) – 0.27, Mg (ppm) – 0.42 in vermicompost. Organic materials with cow manure and nutritional supplements have been shown to only improve the nutritional content of final product, but also increase the overall activity of the earthworm. The stability and maturity of the vermicomposts expressed in C/N (<20) indicated that the vermicompost obtained were suitable for agriculture applications. It was concluded that the adding of cow manure with organic nutritional supplements in vermicompost resulted in the production of mature, nutrient-rich vermicompost suitable for sustainable agriculture production. ','Rock Phosphate, Enriched vermicompost, Mineral mixtures, oil cake','The present results suggest that organic matter combined with cow dung and nutritional supplements can be used to produce concentrated vermicompost with multiple environmental benefits. T7, T4, T3 had the highest content of trace elements such as total N, P, K, etc., indicating that the appropriate proportion of organic matter in the blowing agent and nutritional supplements can help improve the overall quality of vermicompost. Vermicompost enrichment also reduces the recommended dose of vermicompost. All treatments promoted earthworm growth and reproduction. Overall, the study concluded that vermicomposting is a viable method of managing organic matter, and the addition of cow dung and organic nutrient supplements is highly recommended to speed up the vermicomposting process and produce nutrient-rich crops suitable for sustainable agricultural production. It can also meet the nutritional needs of crops.','-','Bhargava A., Sharma S.K. and Trivedi S.K. (2023). Production and Composition of Nutrient Enriched Vermicompost Prepared from Different Organic Materials and Minerals. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 15(2): 350-357.'),(6106,'149','Formulation and Evaluation of Orodispersible Bilayer Tablet containing Fenoprofen Calcium','Sobhit S. Rajput and Deepak Marothia','Formulation-and-Evaluation-of-Orodispersible-Bilayer-Tablet-containing-Fenoprofen-Calcium-Deepak-Marothia-57.pdf','',1,'Conventional compressed tablets are associated with certain limitations associated to their delayed plasma drug concentration and difficulty in swallowing (Dysphagia). Orodispersible tablets, seem to circumvent the above-mentioned limitation and can facilitate oral administration in pediatric and geriatric patients. Current work aimed to achieve rapid therapeutic effects; typically suggested for geriatric and paediatric patients because to enhanced compliance, bioavailability, simplicity of administration, and palatability. Fenoprofen Calcium orodispersible tablets were made using the direct compression method and a coprocessed superdisintegrant (Crospovidone + Ac-Di-Sol). The absorbance, MP, and FTIR spectra of the bulk drug were evaluated in order to characterise it. There was uniformity and repeatability in the measurements for tablet thickness, weight variation, percent drug, wetting time, in vitro disintegration time, and in vitro dissolution tests after compression. Within 25 minutes, all formulations (ODT1-ODT9) demonstrated a nearly 100% drug release rate. The fastest Fenoprofen Calcium release was recorded in the case of ODT9: in 10 min, 58.554%, and in 25 min, 98.72%. The current study concluded that increasing the amount of coprocessed superdisintegrants decreased tablet disintegration time and increased cumulative drug release, all of which resulted in increased absorption.','Direct Compression, Fenoprofen Calcium, Coprocessed superdisintegrant, Factorial design','The idea of creating fenoprofen calcium rapid disintegration and dissolution characteristics of orodispersible bilayer tablets with coprocessed super disintegrants are appropriate and useful. Studying the absorbance, melting point, and FTIR spectroscopy allowed researchers to characterise fenoprofen calcium. ODT1, ODT2, and ODT3 formulations were prepared with 8 mg of Ac-di-sol and 8 mg, 16 mg, and 24 mg of Crospovidone, resulting in a % drug release in the order ODT1<ODT2<ODT3. ODT4, ODT5, and ODT6 formulations were prepared with 16 mg of Ac-di-sol and 8 mg, 16 mg, and 24 mg of Crospovidone, resulting in a % drug release in the order ODT4<ODT5<ODT6. ODT7, ODT8, and ODT9 formulations were prepared with 24 mg of Ac-di-sol and 8 mg, 16 mg, and 24 mg of Crospovidone, resulting in a % drug release in the order of ODT7<ODT8<ODT9. The fastest Fenoprofen Calcium release was recorded in the case of ODT9: in 10 min, 58.554%, and in 25 min, 98.72%. The orodispersible tablets of Fenoprofen Calcium with an improved drug release profile were successfully developed in the current experiment. It has been determined that using more superdisintegrants and a bilayer design speeds up drug absorption by reducing the time it takes for tablets to dissolve, shortening the time they take to moisten, and increasing the cumulative percentage of drug release. ','-','Sobhit S. Rajput and Deepak Marothia (2023). Formulation and Evaluation of Orodispersible Bilayer Tablet containing Fenoprofen Calcium. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 15(2): 358-364.'),(6107,'149','Stability Analysis in Sesame (Sesamum indicum L.) under different Doses of Fertilizers','Manoj Kumar Patel, Dhirendra Singh, Versha Sharma, Deepti Tiwari, Mahaveer Prasad Ola, Shahil Kumar and Ranjit Saroj','Stability-Analysis-in-Sesame-(Sesamum-indicum-L.)-under-different-Doses-of-Fertilizers-Manoj-Kumar-Patel-58.pdf','',1,'A study of stability analysis using Eberhart & Russell model was conducted for seed yield and its component traits on 20 genotypes of sesame (Sesamum indicum L.). The experiment was conducted during kharif, 2018 at Research Farm of S.K.N. College of Agriculture, Jobner. The sesame genotypes were grown in randomized block design (RBD) with three replications over three artificially created environments by providing different doses of fertilizers. Fertility gradient and different soil type is a major concern in Indian soils especially in Rajasthan. Farmers of Rajasthan grow sesame as kharif crop and do not follow recommended dosage of fertilizers which is a major challenge. So, to identify most stable genotypes for seed yield and its component traits under different fertility levels present investigation has been planned. The mean sum of squares due to genotypes were significant for all the traits in all the environments, which shows the variability among genotypes. Significant genotype × environment interaction was found for all the traits excluding days to 50% flowering and days to maturity, which indicate the effect of fertility levels on the performance of genotypes. The pooled deviations were significant for biological yield per plant, capsules per plant, harvest index, seeds per capsule, and seed yield per plant, suggesting the unexplained variation in these traits. Genotypes RT-346 and RT-351 were found stable for seed yield. Genotypes RT-372, RT-384, RT-385, RMT-447, and RMT-450 had below-average stability for seed yield and were suited for better environments. On the other hand, genotypes RT-103 and RT-378 had above average stability for seed yield and were found appropriate for poor fertility conditions. Genotypes RT-346 and RT-351 were found stable for most of the traits. Hence, these genotypes can be grown in the soil with different fertility levels and recommended to the farmers of Rajasthan, where soil fertility varies tremendously. Further, this study will help farmers to choose a right variety of sesame to get maximum production.','Eberhart & Russell model, Fertility level, G × E interaction, Sesame, Stability','In the present investigation, pooled analysis of variance has shown significant G × E interaction for most of the traits indicating the remarkable impact of different artificial created environments on the genotypes. In joint regression analysis, significant linear G × E interaction of the trait denoted the linear response of the genotypes under changing fertility conditions and significant pooled deviations indicated the unpredictable variation across the environment, that varied from genotype to genotype. In stability parameter, high mean, unit regression and minimum deviation from the regression line is a typical characteristic of the stable genotypes. In the present study, genotype RT-346 and RT-351 were found stable for most of the characters, including yield. Hence, these genotypes can be grown in different fertility conditions in that region for better productivity. It would be helpful to recommend these varieties to the farmer under different fertilizer doses.','-','Manoj Kumar Patel, Dhirendra Singh, Versha Sharma, Deepti Tiwari, Mahaveer Prasad Ola, Shahil Kumar and Ranjit Saroj (2023). Stability Analysis in Sesame (Sesamum indicum L.) under different Doses of Fertilizers. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 15(2): 365-370.'),(6108,'149','Lumpy Skin Disease in Cows in Jodhpur District: A Survey ','Hemu Choudhary','Lumpy-Skin-Disease-in-Cows-in-Jodhpur-District-A-Survey--Hemu-Choudhary-59-4386.pdf','',1,'Cows are our religious and prestigious animal from centuries. In the ancient history, many battles were fought for the protection of cows. In Rajasthan, just after a wave of COVID-19 pandemic in 2022, a new pandemic like situation in cattle especially in cows hits all the 33 districts. After heavy rainfall in this monsoon a new disease outbreaks in the form of Lumpy Skin Disease (LSD) spread mainly in cows. A random survey was carried out by Research and Development Cell of Govt. Girls College, Magra Punjala, Jodhpur (Rajasthan). For this purpose an open ended questionnaire was prepared and UG final year girls were trained for it. The survey was carried out in both rural and urban areas of Jodhpur district in the month of Oct-Nov. 2022. The cow bearers were categorised in three categories for the survey work – farmers; including people whose main income is from farming and cattle rearing side business having small population of cattle; commercial cattle rancher whose main income source is from dairy products and cowshed/ Goushala owners. Result shows that 56% cows were infected with this disease out of which 32.14% were dead due to late noticed by the owners/ improper treatment or having severe infection. Milch cows were mostly affected, as the result shows death of 48% milch cows were noticed out of the total deaths. Challenges of this study were to identify and work on a social problem that affected every person’s life and to carry out the survey without any financial support. It was also difficult to convey the people that we are not from the official sites to compensate for the cows death´s from LSD. ','Lumpy Skin Disease, status of cows, infection, death rate','Cows are our religious animal. A new pandemic like situation was found in all the 33 districts in Rajasthan, just after heavy rainfall in this monsoon season. Mulatu and Feyisa, 2018 also found that the disease incidences significantly increase with the onset of rainy and summer season, with the peak activity of the vectors in sub Saharan Africa, Egypt and Ethiopia. Death of cows on a large scale affects everyone’s spirit. The survey result shows that 56% cows were infected with this disease out of which 32.14% was dead due to late noticed by the owners/improper treatment or from severe infection. Milch cows were mostly affected, as the result shows death of 48% milch cows out of the total deaths, maybe due to poor immunity. Foreign breed was found to be more sensitive to LSD (36.36%) than Indian breed (31.11%). Animals of all ages are prone to LSD but calves are more susceptible (Al-Salihi, 2014), result matches as 62.5% calves were found infected. Many studies show that direct contact of animals has no role in transmission of virus (Magori-Cohen et al. 2012). Virus is secreted in milk, nasal secretions, saliva, blood and lacrymal secretions forming indirect source of infection for animals, sharing the same feeding and watering troughs (Ali et al., 2012), but not noticed by farmers/owners as have not been reported. The more deaths were noticed in the cows having symptoms of Gastro Intestinal Trouble (GIT) or respiratory problem. LSD causes economic losses in the form of lesser productivity (www.hindustantimes.com, 19 Sept., 2022) and increase in price of cows.','-','Hemu Choudhary (2023). Lumpy Skin Disease in Cows in Jodhpur District: A Survey. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 15(2): 371-374.'),(6109,'112','Effect of different Post-harvest Packaging Treatments on Shelf-life and Quality of Banana var. Grand Naine','M.R. Bhanusree, S. Chakravarty, G. Pragnaand C.P. Suresh','315 Effect-of-different-Post-harvest-Packaging-Treatments-on-Shelf-life-and-Quality-of-Banana-var.-Grand-Naine-M.R.pdf','',1,'An experiment was carried out to investigate the effect of different packaging materials on shelf life and quality of banana fruits at Postharvest laboratory of Uttar Banga Krishi Viswavidyalaya, Pundibari, West Bengal. The experimental treatments were Un-perforated & perforated polyethylene bag and news paper wrapping in combination with KMnO4 & Wax coating along with control. The experiment was laid out in a complete randomized design (CRD) with three replications. Fruits treated with KMnO4 + wax coating kept in unperforated polythene cover under ambient conditions was recorded highest green-life (17.31 days), yellow-life (7.62 days) and shelf-life (24.93 days) when compared to control. The titrable acidity was also highest in the same treatment on 3rd day (0.94 and 0.99) degraded up to (0.26 and 0.29 %) on 24th day whereas in control it was recorded (0.68 and 0.63) on 3rd day and degraded to (0.36 and 0.35%) on 12th day only. Similarly, the sugar acid ratio was also best in case of fruits treated with KMnO4 + wax coating kept in unperforated polythene cover (T3) and KMnO4 + wax coating kept in perforated polythene cover when compared to control.','Physical Parameters, shelf life, Banana, Packing material and Post-harvest treatments','Under ambient conditions and without any post-harvest storage treatments Grand Naine fruits could be stored up to 12 days. However, using different post-harvest packaging treatments can extended shelf lifeup to 24 days along with improved quality and increased fruit shelf life (green + yellow life) during storage through increased sugar acid ratio, thus it is recommended to create a modified atmospheric condition of the storage environment by packaging the fruits in polyethylene bags with or without perforations but fortifying the bagging with potassium permanganate and wax coating of the stored fruits.','-','M.R. Bhanusree, S. Chakravarty, G. Pragna and C.P. Suresh (2022). Effect of Different Post-harvest Packaging Treatments on Shelf-life and Quality of Banana var. Grand Naine. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 14(1): 1819-1824.'),(6110,'147','Performance Evaluation of Aquacrop Model for Sweet Corn for Northern Telangana Zone','V. Sai Pratyusha, Y. Siva Lakshmi, Guguloth Pragna, B. Apoorva, S. Rushyamee and Md. Salman Pasha','109 Performance-Evaluation-of-Aquacrop-Model-for-Sweet-Corn-for-Northern-Telangana-Zone-V. Sai Pratyusha-4075.pdf','',1,'To acquire understanding of the AquaCrop model for crop yield prediction and to calibrate the AquaCrop model in Sweet corn for Northern Telangana zone, a field experiment was conducted for the rabi season 2020–21 at College farm, Agricultural College, Jagtial, PJTSAU. The experimental soil is sandy loam texture, slightly alkaline, and non-saline. Flood irrigation was used to irrigate the sweet corn crop. On the basis of crop evapotranspiration, irrigation was predominantly planned scheduled (ETc). Climate, crop, soil type, management (irrigation), and initial soil water conditions were all provided as input files to the AquaCrop model. The yield and water productivity are simulated using the model. Root mean square error (RMSE) and percentage error(PE) were used to assess the Performance of the model. The results showed that the output actually used is 11% less than the output calibrated using the AquaCrop model. By changing the values of the crop growth coefficients, the model\'s error in predicting the difference between the measured and simulated grain yield can be further diminished. AquaCrop\'s simulations of water productivity generally agree with the facts collected through measurement. From the study, it can be concluded that the AquaCrop model is suitable for predicting the grain yield, biomass, water productivity, and green canopy cover in sweet corn for Northern Telangana zone with acceptable under and over range of predictions.','Aquacrop, evapotranspiration, canopy cover, water use efficiency and water productivity','1. AquaCrop is suitable for yield prediction in Sweet corn in Northern Telangana Zone.\r\n2. The resulting yield was 11% less than that calibrated with the AquaCrop model. The difference between the measured and simulated grain yields can be minimised by modifying the crop growth coefficient values. The results of AquaCrop\'s simulation of water production and the collected data agree fairly well.\r\nAccording to the findings of this study, the AquaCrop model is appropriate for forecasting Sweet corn crop production, biomass, water productivity, and green canopy cover in acceptable and predictable ranges. The model can be used for the Northern Telangana zone\'s sweet corn production.\r\n','-','V. Sai Pratyusha, Y. Siva Lakshmi, Guguloth Pragna, B. Apoorva, S. Rushyamee and Md. Salman Pasha (2022). Performance Evaluation of Aquacrop Model for Sweet Corn for Northern Telangana Zone. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 14(4a): 624-632.'),(6111,'147','Qualitative Parameters and Relative Economics of Mango (Mallika) Pulp as Influenced by Preservatives and Temperature','Manisha Jangir, Virendra Singh and Nupur Sharma','110 Qualitative-Parameters-and-Relative-Economics-of-Mango-_Mallika_-Pulp-as-Influenced-by-Preservatives-and-Temperature-Manisha-Jangir-110.pdf','',1,'The present experiment was performed to evaluate the best method for preservation of mango pulp. For this the pulp of mango were preserved with thirteen different treatment combinations viz., pulp preserved with KMS@0.05% (T1), KMS@0.1% (T2), sodium benzoate@0.05% (T3), sodium benzoate@0.1% (T4), sodium meta-bisulphite@0.05% (T5), sodium meta bi-sulphite@0.1% (T6), potassium sorbate@0.05 % (T7), potassium sorbate@0.1 % (T8), sodium benzoate + potassium sorbate@0.05 % each (T9), KMS+ potassium sorbate@0.05 % each (T10), sodium meta bi-sulphite + potassium sorbate@0.05 % (T11), refrigeration at 4±2°C (T12), frozen storage at -20°C (T13), These treatment combinations were laid out in completely randomized design and replicated four times. Among all the various treatment combinations, pulp stored under low temperature i.e. at (-20°C) storage was found to be superior over rest of the treatments in terms of overall qualitative characteristics such as TSS, sugars (reducing and total), ascorbic acid and higher pH and lower acidity, performed better in terms of sensory parameters such as taste, flavour, aroma, also, it resulted in higher net returns and B:C ratio. All the parameters of samples were analyzed at fortnight interval during 90 days of storage and at end of storage. The overall acceptable pulp samples were used for economic analysis and for preparation of different value added products (RTS, Squash and jam) and analyzed for its quality.','Mango pulp, Preservation, Ambient storage, Preservative, Economics','As per the results from the present investigation, the following conclusion can be derived that, mango pulp preserved under low temperature (-20°C) resulted in superior quality and physico-chemical stability upto 90 days of storage. However from economical analysis, preserving the pulp preserved with KMS was found to be the best but pulp storage at -20°C was found best from health point of view considering the chemical preservatives being harmful to the health and may be proposed for preservation of mango pulp. The present research work can be helpful for further development of a safer and viable storage of mango pulp at industrial scale. ','-','Manisha Jangir, Virendra Singh and Nupur Sharma (2022). Qualitative Parameters and Relative Economics of Mango (Mallika) Pulp as Influenced by Preservatives and Temperature. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 14(4a): 633-638.'),(6112,'147','Multilocus Sequence Analysis of Burkholderia glumae Strains from Indian Hot Spot Regions causing Bacterial Panicle Blight of Rice (Oryza sativa L.)','Sanjeev Kumar, Kalyan K. Mondal, Thungri Ghoshal, Aditya Kulshreshtha, Sreenayana B., Amrutha Lakshmi M., Mrutyunjaya S., Rashmi E.R., Kalaivanan N.S. and Chandra Mani ','111-Multilocus-Sequence-Analysis-of-Burkholderia-glumae-Strains-from-Indian-Hot-Spot-Regions-causing-Bacterial-Panicle-Blight-of-Rice-(Oryza-sativa-L.pdf','',1,'Bacterial panicle blight (BPB) is one of the emerging diseases of paddy in the Tarai region of Uttarakhand and the disease problem is increasing every year. The present investigation was conducted to examine the Burkholderia glumae isolates causing bacterial panicle blight (BPB) disease in rice by multilocus sequence analysis (MLSA) of four housekeeping genes atpD, recA and gltB. The atpD gene sequence of Indian strains BG1 and BG2 from UP, BG5 and BG6 from Delhi showed 100% nucleotide homology with NCBI strain B. glumae 3BGNY2-4 isolated from rice in China with grouping together in the same clade, however, other Burkholderia spp, showed lower nucleotide identity and formed a separate cluster from all the B. glumae strains. The gltB and recA gene sequence of Indian strains showed 100% nucleotide identity with NCBI strain B. glumae 336gr-1 and B. glumae HN2 respectively, thus confirming the species to be B. glumae. Similarly, in the phylogenetic tree of gltB and recA gene sequence all four Indian isolates clustered together in the phylogenetic tree where BG5 and BG6 strain from Delhi shared the same clade. Thus, based on the grouping of atpD, gltB and recA gene sequence and phylogenetic analysis of all four Indian isolates of BPB pathogen of rice confirmed the species identity as B. glumae. Thus, present study reveals use of multiple genes for species identification and classification of B. glumae. ','MLSA, atpD, recA, gltB and Burkholderia glumae','Our study brings an overview on using different housekeeping genes for characterising isolates of B. glumae using the sequences of internal fragments of three house-keeping genes atpD, gltB and recA. It can be used for bacterial identification and classification as it offers the opportunity for provision of a more in depth view of the phylogenetic relationships of Burkholderia spp. As the pathogen is of quarantine importance, this knowledge can be used for the monitoring the disease globally. ','-','Sanjeev Kumar, Kalyan K. Mondal, Thungri Ghoshal, Aditya Kulshreshtha, Sreenayana B., Amrutha Lakshmi M., Mrutyunjaya S., Rashmi E.R., Kalaivanan N.S. and Chandra Mani (2022). Multilocus Sequence Analysis of Burkholderia glumae Strains from Indian Hot Spot Regions causing Bacterial Panicle Blight of Rice (Oryza sativa L.). Biological Forum – An International Journal, 14(4a): 639-646.'),(6113,'149','Pheno-morphological characterization and Harnessing Genetic variability utilizing Diverse Cultivars, Promising Stabilized Cowpea x Rice Bean Inter-specific Derivatives in Fodder Cowpea (Vigna unguiculata (L.) Walp sub sp. unguiculata)','Megha S. Sogalad, Sanjeev K. Deshpande and Kavyashree N.M.','Pheno-morphological-characterization-and-Harnessing-Genetic-variability---utilizing-Diverse-Cultivars,-Promising-Stabilized-Cowpea-x-Rice-Bean-Inter-specific-Derivatives-in-Fodder-Cowpe-Megha-S-Sogalad-60.pdf','',1,'The present study on morphological characterization of diverse genotypes of fodder-type cowpea (Vigna unguiculata (L.) Walp subsp. unguiculata) based on DUS guidelines by PPV& FRA was carried out at botany garden of the Department of Genetics and Plant Breeding, College of Agriculture, University of Agricultural Sciences, Dharwad, for 2 seasons i.e., Kharif 2021 and summer 2022. There is a growing need to develop suitable varieties for a specific region and specific use. Genetic variability is important to select characters, which are heritable unless and until there is a large amount of variability present in the population selection cannot be practiced. All 30 genotypes of fodder-type cowpea were grouped for seven morphological descriptors. However, no variability was observed for terminal leaf width as all the genotypes belonged to the long category except one. Less variability was recorded for the number of branches per plant and terminal leaflet length. The characterization of cowpea genotypes provides valuable information on the diversity of morphological and quantitative characters for strengthening the future breeding plan. The study on genetic variability parameters revealed high heritability coupled with high genetic advance over mean for the traits like stover yield per plant and dry matter content. Genetic correlation studies indicated that traits like dry matter content, leaf to-stem ratio and stover yield per plant showed a significant positive association with green fodder yield per plant and directly influenced the green fodder yield in fodder-type cowpea. Path analysis results suggested that except for days to fifty per cent flowering and days to maturity all traits viz., dry matter content, leaf to-stem ratio and stover yield per plant showed direct positive effects on green fodder yield per plant at genotypic level indicating that direct selection for these traits results in an increase in green fodder yield in cowpea.','DUS, Descriptors, Morphological characterization, genotypes','The current investigation found that there is significant genetic variability among the fodder cowpea genotypes that were studied. The 30 genotypes of fodder-type cowpea varieties were all categorized into distinct groups based on the current characterization of each trait in line with the DUS guidelines by PPV & FRA, New Delhi. These genotypes and varieties can be utilized as a reference and as parents in breeding initiatives. The results of the study on genetic variability indicated that the traits leaf to-stem ratio, dry matter content, stover yield per plant and green fodder yield per plant were least influenced by environment and governed by additive gene action, thereby offering increased scope for improvement and developing high yielding fodder cowpea varieties.','-','Megha S. Sogalad, Sanjeev K. Deshpande and Kavyashree N.M. (2023). Pheno-morphological characterization and Harnessing Genetic variability utilizing Diverse Cultivars, Promising Stabilized Cowpea × Rice Bean Inter-specific Derivatives in Fodder Cowpea (Vigna unguiculata (L.) Walp sub sp. unguiculata). Biological Forum – An International Journal, 15(2): 375-381.'),(6114,'149','Remote Sensing for Crop Management: A Comprehensive Review','Surbhi Pachori, Sunny Thakur, Akash Barela, Anamika Tomar, Sachin Prakash Nagre, Kumar Jai Anand, Teena Patel and S. K. Sharma','Remote-Sensing-for-Crop-Management-A-Comprehensive-Review-Surbhi-Pachori-61.pdf','',1,'Diseases, pests, weeds, and other biotic or abiotic factors can cause significant financial losses to crops. It is crucial to detect these problems early to take preventive measures. Vegetation monitoring and precision agriculture are necessary for assessing crop health and identifying crop pests in terms of environmental risk assessment. Although remote sensing can give helpful data for agricultural production, there are a few challenges in employing this technique. The outcomes from remote sensing investigations might be difficult to comprehend. Various crops and cultivation environments may necessitate different forms of analysis, and identifying trends and patterns in data can be challenging. Precision agriculture remote sensing is based on indirectly assessing reflected radiation from soil and crops in agricultural fields. Remote sensing indices such as NDVI, LSWI, TVDI, SAVI, WDI, and others can be used to determine crop development and soil moisture from satellite imagery. Remote sensing is a cost-effective, comprehensive, simple, and rapid method of gathering information suitable for monitoring plant stress and disease by providing multitemporal and multispectral information. Thus, it can deliver accurate details continuously at a minimum cost, making it a valuable tool.','Remote Sensing, Crop Assessment, Biotic Stresses, Abiotic Stresses, Vegetation Indices','Thus, the paper discusses the benefits of remote sensing as a tool for detecting and measuring both abiotic and biotic stressors in plants. It highlights the ease, cost-effectiveness, and comprehensiveness of remote sensing and notes that integrating information from various sensors can improve the sensitivity of detecting and measuring stressors. The paper also notes that remote sensing is already used for crop production forecasting, yield modelling, and stress detection in India. Finally, the passage emphasizes the usefulness of spectral remote sensing for the non-destructive estimation of plant growth and biophysical parameters.','-','Surbhi Pachori, Sunny Thakur, Akash Barela, Anamika Tomar, Sachin Prakash Nagre, Kumar Jai Anand, Teena Patel and S. K. Sharma (2023). Remote Sensing for Crop Management: A Comprehensive Review. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 15(2): 382-387.'),(6115,'149','Effect of Organic Manures, Biofertilizers and Cow Urine on NPK Content and Uptake by Clusterbean (Cyamopsis tetragonoloba L.) and Fertility Status of Soil','Snehal K. Ghoya, Mukesh Kumar and C.K. Patel','Effect-of-Organic-Manures,-Biofertilizers-and-Cow-Urine-on-NPK-Content-and-Uptake-by-Clusterbean-(Cyamopsis-tetragonoloba-L-62.pdf','',1,'After green revolution, it becomes a practice in agriculture to get maximum production by using more chemical fertilizers and synthetic agrochemicals irrespective of its impact on soil health and environment. Keeping these facts into consideration, a field experiment was conducted during the kharif season of the year 2021 at Agronomy Instructional Farm, CPCA, SDAU, Sardarkrushinagar. The experiment was laid out in randomized block design with three replications. Thirteen treatments comprises different organic sources viz., T1: 100% RDF through chemical fertilizers (control), T2: 100% RDN through castor cake (CC), T3: 100% RDN through poultry manure (PM), T4: 100% RDN through neem cake (NC), T5: 75% RDN through CC + biofertilizers (NPK), T6: 75% RDN through PM + biofertilizers (NPK), T7: 75% RDN through NC + biofertilizers (NPK), T8: 75% RDN through CC + 5% cow urine, T9: 75% RDN through PM + 5% cow urine, T10: 75% RDN through NC + 5% cow urine, T11: 75% RDN through CC + biofertilizers (NPK) + 5% cow urine, T12: 75% RDN through PM + biofertilizers (NPK) + 5% cow urine and T13: 75% RDN through NC + biofertilizers (NPK) + 5% cow urine. The results revealed that an application of treatment T12 was recorded significantly higher N and P content in seed and stover. Accordingly, an application of same treatment (T12) was recorded significantly higher N, P and K uptake by seed and stover. Therefore, treatment T12 was also recorded maximum available N and P2O5 and organic carbon content in soil at after harvest. Thus, it concludes that the application of 25% reduced level of RDN through poultry manure along with biofertilizers and cow urine spray improves the concentration of nutrients (NPK) in produce of clusterbean and also enhance their post-harvest availability in soil thereby sustained soil fertility (T12).','Poultry manure, Castor cake, Neem cake, Cow urine, Biofertilizers, NPK content and uptake, Available NPK','It can be concluded that the application of 75% RDN through PM + biofertilizers (NPK)+ 5% cow urine spray increase the NPK content and uptake by seed and stover of clusterbean and also enhance their availability in soil as well as sustain soil fertility.','-','Snehal K. Ghoya, Mukesh Kumar and C.K. Patel (2023). Effect of Organic Manures, Biofertilizers and Cow Urine on NPK content and Uptake by Clusterbean (Cyamopsis tetragonoloba L.)and Fertility Status of Soil. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 15(2): 388-393.'),(6116,'149','Evidence - Based Practice among Community Pharmacists and Pharmacy Students in South India','Vijaya Bhaskar Erla, Niharika Veldurthi, Nikitha Preethi Neeruganti, Mohanraj Rathinavelu ','Evidence-Based-Practice-among-Community-Pharmacists-and-Pharmacy-Students-in-South-India-Vijaya-Bhaskar-Erla-63.pdf','',1,'To enable the millennial graduating pharmacy students and current professional practitioners, to satisfy the 21st-century healthcare and pharmacotherapy need with clinical expertise and patient values based on research evidence and attain seven-star pharmacist’s principle. The current study was designed to assess the knowledge, attitude, and perception regarding evidence-based pharmacy practice among pharmacy students and practitioners at community settings of south India, through a validated standardized 15 inventories self-administered questionnaire. The study observed a very good knowledge among pharmacy practice students and community pharmacists, but was lacking its perception, due to failure in establishing the relationship between quality professional development and continuous learning process. Implementation of novel approach from the start of teaching-learning process to realistic practice called evidence-based practice in profession of pharmacy, for which the research evidences are very limited and the practice is at still infancy in developing countries. To achieve the mission of pharmacy practice the study necessitates the implementation of quality teaching-learning, research, and practices in pharmacy through evidence-based practice by the statutory bodies, regulating agencies, and policymakers as a problem-solving tool; and also recommends the millennial students and practitioners as an obligation to improve their competencies and skills, to promote excellence in practice for the benefit of those served.','Evidence based practice, pharmacy, practitioners, students, self-administered questionnaire','In conclusion, our study recommends the statutory bodies, regulating agencies, and policymakers to introduce and sensitize pharmacy education pedagogy, research and practices through evidence-based medicine. This prepares the millennial pharmacists as pharmacotherapeutic specialists to assist clinical leaders in making rational decisions.','-','Vijaya Bhaskar Erla, Niharika Veldurthi, Nikitha Preethi Neeruganti, Mohanraj Rathinavelu (2023). Evidence - Based Practice among Community Pharmacists and Pharmacy Students in South India. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 15(2): 394-398.'),(6117,'149','Assessment of Correlation and Path coefficient Analysis for Yield and Yield Contributing Traits among Tomato (Solanum Lycopersicum L.) Genotypes','Radhe Shyam Kherwa, S.S. Solankey, Manish Kumar and Mahendra Kumar','Assessment-of-Correlation-and-Path-coefficient-Analysis-for-Yield-and-Yield-Contributing-Traits-among-Tomato-(Solanum-Lycopersicum-L.)-Genotypes-Radhe-Shyam-Kherwa-64.pdf','',1,'For twenty yield-contributing traits, correlations and path coefficients were examined in seven tomato (Solanum lycopersicum L.) genotypes. The interrelationship between the analysed features was discovered using the correlation coefficients. Average fruit weight, fruit yield per plant, equatorial fruit diameter, polar fruit diameter, total phenolic content, and days to 50% flowering all showed strong positive correlations with total fruit yield. However, the first day of fruit set was very significantly negatively correlated with total fruit yield. Whereas, lycopene content had high significant and positive correlation with total phenolics content, TSS content and total antioxidant capacity but negative correlation with titrable acidity. The total fruit yield had the highest positive direct effect in the path coefficient analysis, followed by the number of fruit per plant, the number of locules per fruit, the days to 50% flowering, and the number of primary branches per plant, all of which both positively correlated with and directly affected the yield. ','Genotypic, Phenotypic, Correlation, Path, Fruit yield','The link between average fruit weight, fruit output per plant, equatorial fruit diameter, polar fruit diameter, and total phenolic content was significantly positive, as were the days to 50% flowering, while days to first fruit set have a strong, negative relationship with overall fruit production. On the other hand, lycopene content has high significant and positive correlation with total phenolics content, TSS content and total antioxidant capacity but negative correlation with titrable acidity. In path coefficient analysis the highest positive direct effect was noted in total fruit yield followed by number of fruit per plant, number of locules per fruit, days to 50% flowering and primary branches per plant both had a favourable association with yield and a direct impact on it. Thus, these characteristics can be employed as selection indices in tomato breeding to increase yield.','-','Radhe Shyam Kherwa, S.S. Solankey, Manish Kumar and Mahendra Kumar (2023). Assessment of Correlation and Path coefficient Analysis for Yield and Yield Contributing Traits among Tomato (Solanum Lycopersicum L.) Genotypes. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 15(2): 399-403.'),(6118,'149','Physical Characteristics of Maize Plants for Development of Maize Cobs Picker','Balveer Singh Meena, Atul Kumar Shrivastava and Kunal Bhelave','Physical-Characteristics-of-Maize-Plants-for-Development-of-Maize-Cobs-Picker-Balveer-Singh-Meena-65.pdf','',1,'In the design process of corn picker, the influence and action mechanism of corn plant characteristics on the working parts of corn harvester (including cutting device, ear picking device, conveying device) should be considered, and the physical properties of corn plant need to be analyzed. To prevent high loss rate and crushing rate of ears and grains, and low efficiency of harvesting operation due to high moisture content of ears of corn in harvest period. Therefore, it is particularly important to analyze the physical properties of maize plants. Three maize variety taken for crop characteristics i.e. JM-216, DKC-9188, and NK-6240. The characteristics is stem diameter, plant height, cob height from ground, maximum cob diameter, cob length. This characteristics are used to design the different component of maize cobs picker.','Corn picker, Physical properties, harvesting operation','Crop characteristics of different variety of maize taken at field condition. Three maize variety taken for crop characteristics i.e. JM-216, DKC-9188, and NK-6240. The characteristics is stem diameter, plant height, cob height from ground, maximum cob diameter, cob length. This characteristics are used to design the different component of maize cobs picker.','-','Balveer Singh Meena, Atul Kumar Shrivastava and Kunal Bhelave (2023). Physical Characteristics of Maize Plants for Development of Maize Cobs Picker. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 15(2): 404-408.'),(6119,'149','Nutrient Uptake and Growth parameters of Isabgol Influenced under different organic manures and bio-nutrients','Sanjay Kumar, R.N. Meena, Gharsiram and Pradeep Kumar','Nutrient-Uptake-and-Growth-parameters-of-Isabgol-Influenced-under-different-organic-manures-and-bio-nutrients-Sanjay-Kumar-66.pdf','',1,'To increase yield of higher-quality medicinal plants and aromatic herbs, organic manures and biostimulants can be employed. Successful management of organic fertiliser is essential for growing medicinal and fragrant plants. Utilizing chemical fertilisers sparingly and mixing organic manures with bio-fertilizers in the soil enhances soil fertility and is thought to promote the vegetative growth and development of plants as well as the development of their productive and commercial portions. In this way, organic fertilisers will improve soil structure, water holding capacity, microbial activity, and nutrient availability without adversely affecting the ecosystem. In the above mentioned scenario, a research experiment was examined to study the impact of organic manures and bionutrients on nutrient removal and growth of isabgol during two consecutive rabi seasons of 2020 and 2021, respectively. The research work was laid out in split plot design with five treatment of organic manures in main plot and four treatment of bio-nutrients in sub plots. Main plots comprising of M1 (Control), M2 (100 % RDN through FYM), M3 (100 % RDN through Vermicompost), M4 (100 % RDN through Poultry manure) and M5 (100 % RDN through Goat manure) and sub plot treatments comprising i.e. Bio-nutrients S1 (control), S2 (Azotobactor + PSB), S3 (Jivamrut) and S4 (Azotobactor + PSB + Jivamrut). The results revealed that higher growth and nutrient uptake with 100 % RDN through FYM. Among the bio-nutrients, Azotobactor + PSB + Jivamrut recorded significantly higher growth and nutrient uptake during both the years. ','Isabgol, azotobacter, bionutrients, yield, poultry manure','From the above mentioned study, it is recommended that to obtain higher plant growth as well as better uptake of nutrient of Isabgol crop should be grown by 100% RDN through Poultry manurealong with Azotobactor + PSB + Jivamrut.','-','Sanjay Kumar, R.N. Meena, Gharsiram and Pradeep Kumar (2023). Nutrient Uptake and Growth parameters of Isabgol Influenced under different organic manures and bio-nutrients. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 15(2): 409-413.'),(6120,'149','Effect of Residue Recycling on Leaf Area Index and Nutrient Uptake Pattern of Wheat Crop under different Potassium Management Practices','Kajal Arora, Ram Swaroop Bana, Seema Sepat, Bhagyashree Phogat, Preeti Devatwal and Sunder Anchra','Effect-of-Residue-Recycling-on-Leaf-Area-Index-and-Nutrient-Uptake-Pattern-of-Wheat-Crop-under-Different-Potassium-Management-Practices-Kajal-Arora-67.pdf','',1,'Crop residues management and balanced nutrition of crops are important techniques for sustaining the diverse agricultural production systems. In this context, the present work is planned to find out the approaches to increase the resource use efficiency by crop residue reuse i.e, by alternating the potassium application with efficient crop residue management. Therefore, a field experiment was conducted at the Research Farm of the ICAR-Indian Agricultural Research Institute (IARI), New Delhi during Rabi seasons of 2020-21. The experiment was laid out in split-plot design with three replications having single wheat cultivar HD 3086 with three residue management treatments in (no residue, Maize residue incorporation @ 3t/ha and Maize residue retention @ 3t/ha) main plot and five potassium management practices in [Control (no application of fertilizer, K1), 50% of RDK (K2), 100% of RDK (K3), 50% of RDK (½ basal + ½ top dress at 25 DAS, K4) and 100% RDK (½ basal + ½ top dress at 25 DAS, K5)] sub plots. Results indicated that the crop residue retention @ 3t/ha recorded the higher LAI along with the split application of 100 % recommended dose of potassium (½ at basal + ½ top dress at 25 DAS). Similarly, maximum NPK uptake both in grain and straw of wheat was observed with crop residue incorporation @ 3t/ha with the split application of 100 % RDK. ','Crop residue, Nutrient uptake, Potassium management, Soil fertility','On the basis of one year study it was concluded that the Leaf area Index was significantly affected with residue and potassium management treatments. Similarly, the maximum nutrient uptake was also improved after harvest of crop as a result of residue application and balanced nutrition of the crop. Therefore, based on the results it can be established that the crop residue retention with split application of 100% recommended dose of potassium can be a better approach to increase resource use efficiency by crop residue reuse and optimum fertilizer applications.','-','Kajal Arora, Ram Swaroop Bana, Seema Sepat, Bhagyashree Phogat, Preeti Devatwal and Sunder Anchra (2023). Effect of Residue Recycling on Leaf Area Index and Nutrient Uptake Pattern of Wheat Crop under Different Potassium Management Practices. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 15(2): 414-419.'),(6121,'149','Influence of different Levels of Plant Density and Pruning Intensity on Vegetative Growth of Newly Planted Guava (Psidium guajava L.) cv. Allahabad Surkha under Open Environment condition','Deepak Lall, Vijay Bahadur and Saket Mishra','Influence-of-different-Levels-of-Plant-Density-and-Pruning-Intensity-on-Vegetative-Growth-of-Newly-Planted-Guava-(Psidium-guajava-L.)-cv.-Allahabad-Surkha-under-Open-Environment-condition-Deepak-Lall-68.pdf','',1,'The results of the present investigation indicated that, different levels of pruning severity viz., 50%, 30% and 10% and planting density viz., D1: 2.0 m × 1.0 m, D2: 2.0 m × 2.0 m, D3: 2.0 m × 3.0 m, D4: 2.0 m × 4.0 m, D5: 6.0 m × 6.0m highlight the significant effect on vegetative growth of newly planted Guava (Psidium guajava L.) cv. Allahabad Surkha under open based environment condition. The results of the study revealed that among the various pruning based treatment combinations the best 10% and 30% pruning intensity proved significantly superior over other pruning treatments for vegetative growth parameters. On other hand the results of the research study showed that among the various planting density treatments, the density i.e. D4: 2.0 m × 4.0 m, D5: 6.0 m × 6.0m conclude the significant effect and found more superior over other pruning treatments for their vegetative growth performance during rainy and winter season based research experiments. The interaction effect of different levels of pruning intensity and planting density was also found significant on vegetative growth parameter of Guava cv. Allahabad Surkha. The maximum increase plant height (cm), number of leaves per plant, no. of branches per plant, plant spread (cm) (E-W and N-S), days to 1st emergence of new shoots per plant (in days), stem girth (cm), stem length (cm), leaf area (cm2) and LAI (Index %) was recorded best with T19 (P3 10% + D4D4: 2.0 m × 4.0 m) and T20 (P310% + D5 6.0 m × 6.0 m). It is concluded from the results obtained in research findings that 10% and 30% pruning intensity and planting density D5 6.0 m × 6.0 m and D4 2.0 m × 4.0 m proved as best in terms of growth parameters of Allahabad Surkha Guava in Prayagraj Agro-Climatic region. ','Allahabad Surkha, Guava, Plant density, Pruning intensity, Vegetative Growth, open environment and rainy & winter season','It is concluded from the results obtained in research findings that 10 and 30% pruning intensity and planting density i.e. D5 6.0 m × 6.0 m and D4 2.0 m × 4.0 m was found to be most effective to improve growth parameters like plant height (cm), number of leaves per plant, no. of branches per plant, plant spread (cm) (E-W and N-S), days to 1st emergence of new shoots per plant (in days), stem girth (cm), stem length (cm), leaf area (cm2) and LAI (Index %) of Guava cv. Allahabad Surkha.','-','Deepak Lall, Vijay Bahadur and Saket Mishra (2023). Influence of Different Levels of Plant Density and Pruning Intensity on Vegetative Growth of Newly Planted Guava (Psidium guajava L.) cv. Allahabad Surkha under Open Environment Condition. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 15(2): 420-430.'),(6122,'149','Effect of Liquid Biofertilizers on N, P and K uptake by Grain and Straw of Malt Barley (Hordeum vulgare L.) under different Fertility Levels','Sonal Athnere, P.C. Chaplot, B. Upadhyay, Pinky Yadav and Sundar Anchra','Effect-of-Liquid-Biofertilizers-on-N,-P-and-K-uptake-by-Grain-and-Straw-of-Malt-Barley-(Hordeum-vulgare-L.)-under-different-Fertility-Levels-Sonal-Athnere-69.pdf','',1,'It has been observed that application of lower rates of fertilizer affects production and quality of grain below acceptable levels because they reduce nutrient transfer from vegetative components to grain. Therefore, an appropriate dose of nutrients should be made available to crop plants. For resolving this issue a field trial was carried out during rabi 2020-21 and 2021-22 at Agronomy farm, MPUAT, Udaipur with the aim to assess the response of malt barley to fertilizer’s dose and biofertilizers. The experiment used a randomised block design (Factorial) with 15 treatment combinations consisting of three fertility levels i.e. application of 50 kg N + 25 kg P2O5 +15 kg K2O ha-1, 60 kg N + 30 kg P2O5 +20 kg K2O ha-1 and 70 kg N + 40 kg P2O5 +25 kg K2O ha-1 with five liquid biofertilizers i.e. control, Azotobacter, PSB, KMB and Azotobacter + PSB + KMB. The results discovered that, malt barley crop fertilized with 70 kg N +40 kg P2O5 + 25 kg K2O ha-1 along with seed inoculation with Azotobacter + PSB + KMB accumulated maximum quantum of nutrients in grain, straw and thereby total. ','Malt barley, nitrogen, phosphorus, grain, straw, biofertilizers and fertility levels','Based on the results emanated, it is concluded that combine application of 70 kg N + 40 kg P2O5 + 25 kg K2O ha-1 + seed inoculation with Azotobacter + PSB + KMB accumulated maximum quantum of nutrients in grain and straw of malt barley crop. ','-','Sonal Athnere, P.C. Chaplot, B. Upadhyay, Pinky Yadav and Sundar Anchra (2023). Effect of Liquid Biofertilizers on N, P and K uptake by Grain and Straw of Malt Barley (Hordeum vulgare L.) under different Fertility Levels. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 15(2): 431-437.'),(6123,'149','Plant Growth Promoting Rhizobacteria: A Review on Biomass Production and its Scope in Commercialization','V. Aruna, S. Jenny, N. Jeenathunisa and S. Jeyabharathi','Plant-Growth-Promoting-Rhizobacteria-A-Review-on-Biomass-Production-and-its-Scope-in-CommercializationV-Aruna-70.pdf','',1,'The world wide amplifies in human inhabitants and ecological damage has the adverse significance with the intention of world food stuff manufacture. May perhaps shortly turn into inadequate to nourish all populace. It’s consequently vital yield output, considerably better in subsequent years. To overcome this condition farming preparation will shift forward a additional defensible, environment responsive perception. A variety of findings include recognized an amplified well being, yield of diverse herb class with the use of phosphate solubilising bacteria beneath together regular and unfavourable circumstances. The herb useful root surface bacteria might decline worldwide faith resting on harmful synthetic pesticides threaten the atmosphere. Power of biofertilizer based on preparations, manufacture, preservation and function of live invisible cells. Improvement of low-cost expertise, economical combination should be used in biofertilizer manufacture. After the Mass cultivation, the creation must composed in fluid or hard form, required long preservation, exploit of preserver /bearer, preservation conditions (hotness, water content) ease of purpose and protection of advantageous possessions on herbs. . Careful determination of these optimal conditions would ensure the low cost efficient bioinoculant that would enhance the growth and yield of various crops. This study aims to review plant beneficial microbial agro inoculants successful formulations and commercialization.','Rhizobacteria, PGPR, Biomass production, Protectors, Carriers','Growth promoting bacteria, as well as phosphate solubilising bacteria, makes use of supportive property on herbs development and outcomes throughout diverse methods. Many growth promoting bacteria include are identified and incorporated to make preparations should use as biofertilizer in farming, while there reasonable selection towards decrease appliance of synthetic substances. The extensive bio inoculants manufacture by unused manufacturing substances or unwanted things like fraction of cultivation preparations might scheme near reduce the expenses among obliging forming technology. Growth promoting bacterial suspensions were prepared as prospective purpose, offer the constructive micro surroundings and to encourage long-standing microbial firmness. Many wet and dry preparations containing Growth promoting bacteria were capable to support the enlargement and yields of various crops. Wet preparations are frequently more simply maked and used more than dry preparations, having more advantage, particularly while considerable quantity is essential. Furthermore, occasion towards wet preparations is economic compared to a few aeration processes. The assortment criterion of the most favourable scheme to build up the last bioinoculant will based on the equilibrium between constancy, efficiency, financial possibility and easiness of apply, in count to the production of an added maintainable and recyclable.','-','V. Aruna, S. Jenny, Jeenathunisa and S. Jeyabharathi (2023). Plant Growth Promoting Rhizobacteria: A Review on Biomass Production and its Scope in Commercialization. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 15(2): 438-443.'),(6124,'149','Comparative Efficacy of Chemical and Plant based Herbicides on Weed Management in Winter Sown Ashwagandha Crop [Withania somnifera (L.) Dunal]','Salikram Mohare, Gyanendra Tiwari, Niraj Tripathi, Anay Rawat, Amit Jha, R. Shiv Ramakrishnan, R.K. Samaiya ','Comparative-Efficacy-of-Chemical-and-Plant-based-Herbicides-on-Weed-Management-in-Winter-Sown-Ashwagandha-Crop-[Withania-somnifera-(L.)-Dunal]-Gyanendra-Tiwari-71.pdf','',1,'Withania somnifera (L.) Dunal is a valuable and prominent medicinal plant species cultivated in India. Weed infestation is one of the major problems affecting growth and productivity of this crop. Experiments were conducted at Herbal Garden, Department of Plant Physiology, JNKVV, Jabalpur, India during winter seasons of 2020-21 and 2021-22 to find out suitable herbicide(s) out of chemical and plant based herbicides. Results revealed that single post-emergence spray of chemical herbicides viz. Quizalofop-p-ethyl@ 50 g ha-1, Clodinofop-p-propargyl @ 60 g ha-1 and Haloxyfop r-methyl @ 750 g ha-1 individually were very effective in controlling weeds without any serious effect on Ashwagandha crop. These herbicides controlled mainly monocot weeds. Plant based organic herbicide (alcoholic extract Withania root @10 kg ha-1) and chemical herbicide (Oxyflourfen @100 kg ha-1) individually effectively controlled weeds specially dicot weeds with some adverse effects on growth and survival of Withania crops. Quizalofop-p-ethyl prolonged vegetative and reproductive phases. One spray of Quizalofop-p-ethyl 30 days after planting not only effectively manages weed population in Withania crop but also realized maximum dried root yield (1077 kg ha-1), leaf yield (1666.33 kg ha-1), seed yield (788.33 kg ha-1), and total plant biomass yield (5440.67 kg ha-1). Withania root extract was equite effective in controlling both monocot and dicot weeds but less effective than chemical herbicide Quizalofop-p-ethyl because it realized less dried root yield (632.67 kg ha-1). Withania root extract was very effective in maximizing harvest index (22.52%) taking root as economic yield showing improvement in partitioning of assimilates towards economic sink, i.e. root.','Withania somnifera, medicinal plants, chemical control, Quizalofop, Haloxyfop, Clodinofop, Oxyflorfen','Withania root extract was quite effective in controlling both monocot and dicot weeds but less effective than chemical herbicide Quizalofop-p-ethyl because it realized less dried root yield (632.67 kg ha-1). Withania root extract was very effective in maximizing harvest index (22.52%) taking root as economic yield showing improvement in partitioning of assimilates towards economic sink, i.e., root. ','-','Salikram Mohare, Gyanendra Tiwari, Niraj Tripathi, Anay Rawat, Amit Jha, R. Shiv Ramakrishnan, R.K. Samaiya (2023). Comparative Efficacy of Chemical and Plant based Herbicides on Weed Management in Winter Sown Ashwagandha Crop [Withania somnifera (L.) Dunal]. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 15(2): 444-449.'),(6125,'149','Development of Hydrolyzed Carbonated Whey Beverage with Pomegranate Peel Extract and Guava Leaves Extract','Fathimath Naurin K.A., Marx Nirmal R., Ayyavoo Preamnath Manoharan and Karthikeyan N. ','Development-of-Hydrolyzed-Carbonated-Whey-Beverage-with-Pomegranate-Peel-Extract-and-Guava-Leaves-Extract-Marx-Nirmal-R-72.pdf','',1,'Present study was aimed to develop a carbonated whey beverage for effective utilization of paneer whey. Lack of efficient utilization of whey makes it as an environmental burden. For the study, whey was obtained from the manufacture of paneer. Lactose in whey was hydrolyzed by Lactase (β – galactosidase) enzyme at a pH of 6.6. Lactose hydrolyzed whey beverage was prepared by mixing sugar (10%), pomegranate peel extract (1, 2, 3 and 4%) and guava leaves extract (1, 2, 3 and 4%) to the hydrolyzed whey. Carbonation was carried out by the injection of CO2. Optimizing the levels of incorporation of pomegranate peel extract and guava leaves extract in carbonated hydrolyzed whey beverage was based on sensory analysis. The hydrolyzed whey beverage with 3% Pomegranate peel extract and 3% Guava leaves extract was more acceptable among all other samples. The physico-chemical analysis such as pH, Acidity (% lactic acid) and Total soluble solids (ºBrix) in the optimized beverage was analyzed and it was found to be 6.54, 0.18 and 18.45 respectively. From the current findings, it is observed that pomegranate peel extract and guava leaves extract can be successfully incorporated into hydrolyzed whey beverage and the developed product is highly acceptable compared with control. This study can be considered as a method for the efficient utilization of the by-products.','Pomegranate peel extract, Guava leaves extract, Hydrolyzed whey, Carbonation, whey beverage','Effective utilization of whey is possible by converting whey in to beverages. It was concluded that hydrolyzed whey can be successfully incorporated with pomegranate peel extract and guava leaves extract with carbonation without altering any physico-chemical and sensory properties. Carbonated whey beverage proves to be an alternative to soft drinks. Hydrolyzed whey beverage is easily acceptable by lactose hydrolyzed people.','-','Fathimath Naurin K.A., Marx Nirmal R., Ayyavoo Preamnath Manoharan and Karthikeyan N. (2023). Development of Hydrolyzed Carbonated Whey Beverage with Pomegranate Peel Extract and Guava Leaves Extract. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 15(2): 450-453.'),(6126,'148','Response of Bio-fertilizers and Hydrogel on Yield and Yield Attribute of Linseed Crop (Linum usitatissimum L.) under Rainfed condition','Arushi Yadav, R.P. Singh, Sarvesh Kumar, U.D. Awasthi and Munish Kumar','Response-of-Bio-fertilizers-and-Hydrogel-on-Yield-and-Yield-Attribute-of-Linseed-Crop-(Linum-usitatissimum-L.)--under-Rainfed-Condition-Arushi-Yadav-73.pdf','',1,'To investigate the effects of hydrogel and bio-fertilizers on cultivars of linseed\'s yield attribute, the experiment was carried out during the rabi season of 2020–2022. The experiment, which was set up in RBD, included three doses of fertilizer with combinations of Bio-Fertilizers, namely N1 (100% RDF), N2 (75% RDF + Azotobacter), and N3 (50% RDF + Azotobacter + PSB), as well as three moisture conservation practices, namely M1 (Dust mulch), M2 (Hydrogel @2.5kg/ha), and M3 (Hydrogel @5. In times of water constraint, hydrogel may show to be a realistically effective and environmentally benign solution for achieving the aim of agricultural output. Different field, ornamental, and food crops have been observed to produce better yields after applying hydrogel to the soil. Analysis of the response dosages of nutrient management with moisture conservation techniques was done on the growth traits, plant population, flowering, yield attribute, and yield of the linseed crop. The greater seed production in nutrient management was attained at a rate of 75% RDF + Azotobacter of 13.02 q/ha and 13.32 q/ha in the first and second years, respectively. The higher seed yield was attained with hydrogel@5kg/ha in the first and second years, at 13.55 q/ha and 14.17 q/ha, respectively. This is similar to moisture conservation measures. The experiment\'s two years of data showed that the lowest seed yields were 9.25 q/ha and 9.64 q/ha of dust mulch. In India, a very low application rate of fertilizer is necessary for nearly all crop kinds due to the country climate types.','Biofertilizer, Hydrogel, Ornamental, Moisture conservation, Growth traits','The dual inoculation of Azotobacter and PSB resulted in noticeably superior yield attributes, such as the number of capsules per plant and seed weight per plant, although statistically, this was no different from PSB seed inoculation. This may be because plants in dual-inoculation and PSB alone plots accumulate dry matter more efficiently than those in single-inoculation plots. Biofertilizers also considerably affected the seed and stover production of linseed. With the simultaneous inoculation of PSB and Azotobacter, a higher seed production was observed. Azotobacter has been found promising to improve nitrogen status of soil and crop yield due to their capacity to fix atmospheric nitrogen. By boosting the supply or availability of primary nutrients to the host plant, the biofertilizers encourage development. It raises agricultural yield production, soil quality, and fertility. To increase photosynthetic efficiency, assimilate partitioning, and boost crop growth and yield, hydrogel treatment may be a viable choice. In the current experiment, the hydrogel @5 kgha-1 with 75% RDF + Azotobacter showed higher growth characteristics. Therefore, the aforementioned dose can be suggested to the farmer in order to increase the yield of linseed under rainfed conditions. Agricultural hydrogels are environmentally beneficial since they biodegrade over time without leaving any residue on the soil.','-','Arushi Yadav, R.P. Singh, Sarvesh Kumar, U.D. Awasthi and Munish Kumar (2023). Response of Bio-fertilizers and Hydrogel on Yield and Yield Attribute of Linseed Crop (Linum usitatissimum L.) under Rainfed Condition. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 15(1): 647-650.'),(6127,'150','Involvement of Tribal Women and Children in Traditional Poultry Rearing Practices in Pali District of Rajasthan','Pankaj Lavania, M.P. Verma, L.K. Jain and Rashmi Bhinda','Involvement-of-Tribal-Women-and-Children-in-Traditional-Poultry-Rearing-Practices-in-Pali-District-of-RajasthanMP-Verma-1.pdf','',1,'Poultry farming is one of the subsidiaries for economic and social up liftment in agriculture sector. Rural poultry farming using native breeds is being practiced in many developing and underdeveloped countries throughout the world. Importance of native birds for rural economy is immense in different countries. The first priority of today’s rural poultry farmer is not only having birds which lay just more eggs but also having birds which lay eggs. The role of tribal women and their children in the traditional poultry production practices were investigated in Pali district of Rajasthan under Tribal Sub Plan (TSP) scheme sponsored by Division of Education, ICAR, New Delhi. Different aspects were investigated nature and extent of involvement of family members in different activities of poultry rearing in terms of operations. Findings of present study concluded that participation of tribal women is comparatively more in housing, feeding, watering, health care, and hatching of chicks which were contributed to a larger extent in increasing the household income of the family. The income was generated from backyard poultry rearing was utilised for household celebrations, recreation purpose, as a gift to relatives and also to extend the poultry flock production depending upon the felt needs. From this study, it can be concluded that the back yard poultry production with full participation of tribal women helped in empowering women’s of tribal communities in Pali district of Rajasthan. The Government is making concerted efforts to create an ecosystem to support their hard work so that the farmers get optimum returns on a sustainable basis. It would go a long way encourage farmer across India to follow the recommended practices and enhance their income. Thus, paving a way of sustainable poultry production for doubling of farmer’s income in arid eco system. The article portrays the need for providing capacity building and extension programme to tribal households, which can go long way in making backyard poultry as a tool for rural upliftment. ','Backyard, Involvement, Poultry, Economic venture, Management practices','Backyard poultry production is being recognized as important component of socio economic development among the tribal community of rural society is not only meets the nutritional security but also economic venture for resource poor farm families in terms of livelihood and economic security and help in checking the people migration to urban/semi-urban areas. So, animal husbandry including, poultry production is considered to be an effective tool to combat poverty. Even though, it is a secondary occupation, the statistics of this region reflects the production and productivity is comparatively below to its maximum production potential. In order to bring a change in their poultry farming practices through various initiatives including, innovations, interventions, technologies, training and front line demonstration focused towards tribal households brought some improvement but still there are considerable gaps for improvement. ','-','Pankaj Lavania, M.P. Verma, L.K. Jain and Rashmi Bhinda (2023). Involvement of Tribal Women and Children in Traditional Poultry Rearing Practices in Pali District of Rajasthan. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 15(3): 01-05.'),(6128,'149','Effect of Chemical Mutagens on Seed Germination and Seedling Traits of Jamun','Damanpreet Kaur and Amarjeet Kaur','Effect-of-Chemical-Mutagens-on-Seed-Germination-and-Seedling-Traits-of-Jamun-Amarjeet-Kaur-73.pdf','',1,'Jamun is raised through seed and requires proper maintenance until graftable stage. Chemical mutagenesis is an important approach for the improvement of crop plants. The efficiency and effectiveness of chemical mutagens are a prerequisite to assess the effective dose for variability. In the present study, five different concentrations (0.1, 0.2, 0.3, 0.4 and 0.5%) of colchicine, ethyl methane sulphonate (EMS) and sodium azide were used to treat jamun seeds to assess morphological, physiological and biochemical analyses. It was noted that with an increase in dosage of colchicine, EMS and sodium azide germination percentage, survivability and growth traits were decreased. Among the different concentrations of chemical mutagens colchicine @ 0.1 per cent were proportional to early seedling emergence, increased germination percentage, improved plant morphological traits and enhanced leaf biochemical compounds in terms of total phenolic and carbohydrate content. The effectiveness of the three chemicals on jamun is ranked as colchicine; EMS; sodium azide. Jamun seeds treated with colchicine 0.1 % can aid for the propagation of superior quality planting material on commercial basis.','Colchicine, germination, jamun, morphological traits, mutagens, seed treatment','As an outcome of the research study out of the chemical mutagens used for seed treatment colchicine @ 0.1 % proved to be the best with significant effects on initiation of seed germination, shoot biomass production, shoot length and diameter, leaf production, root length and diameter and leaf biochemical compounds such as phenols and carbohydrates. For raising superior quality planting material seeds of jamun treated with 0.1 % colchicine can produce healthy and vigorous seedlings on commercial basis.','-','Damanpreet Kaur and Amarjeet Kaur (2023). Effect of Chemical Mutagens on Seed Germination and Seedling Traits of Jamun. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 15(2): 454-460.'),(6129,'152','Data Curation of Signalling Protein Molecules in Breast Cancer','Piyusha Sharma and Vachaspati Mishra','Data Curation of Signalling Protein Molecules in Breast Cancer-Piyusha Sharma-1.pdf','',1,'Breast cancer is fundamentally a disease of regulation of tissue growth. Targeting the pathways that promote or sustain growth and invasion of carcinoma cells is critical to effective treatment of breast cancer. Data curation adopting a bioinformatics/ biological data basing approach is presently employed to identify the candidate protein molecules mediating breast cancer signalling with a promise for therapeutic targeting. Signalling proteins are highly specific and precise and act in a modular manner, which allows us to modulate such interactions specifically by the use of drugs or other molecule for a better drug target. With this aim in mind, we thus, are creating a catalogue of biomarkers of signalling proteins mediating breast cancer. Presently, we have manually curated signalling data on proteins mediating breast cancer on the basis of PubMed reports. Of the 150 entries made so far based on about 250 Pubmed reports, the receptor tyrosine kinase (RTK) cascade has been found to be implicated in a high proportion of Breast cancers and the major downstream effector in the process emerged out to be Activator protein-1 (AP-1), CDc42 and FOXO3 in these responses. Other key markers found out were CDc42 (a GTPase) and FOXO3 (a transcription factor). Receptor mainly involved is estrogen receptors which in particular have been well documented to play a critical role in the etiology and progression of breast cancer. This collection highlights many recent studies that catalogue these alterations and shed light on the mechanisms by which cancer genes function. ','Breast cancer, Oncology, Bioinformatics, AP-1, FOXO3, CDc42, PubMed','One of the most important issues in oncology is breast cancer, which is a challenging tissue to investigate. The dataset curated in the current study includes important signalling molecules linked to breast cancer. Receptor Tyrosine Kinase (RTK) cascade is currently thought to be the most frequent mediator of breast cancer. Activator protein-1 (AP-1), cell division control protein 42 (CDc42), a GTPase, and Forkhead box O3 (FOXO3a), a transcription factor, were found to be the process\' main downstream effectors. Since it is clear that these prospective protein molecules have been shown to have a major role in the majority of cancer cases, a novel lead compound can be found through structure-based drug design employing a variety of bioinformatics tools. The identification of potential drug lead compounds for inhibiting the active site of protein molecules and preventing their involvement in the cancer pathway may be aided by In silico drug target discovery, drug design, docking or screening, drug metabolism prediction, interaction prediction, and general pharmaceutical education. The quick search for tiny compounds that might bind to biologically interesting targets is essential for the drug discovery process.','-','Piyusha Sharma and Vachaspati Mishra (2022). Data Curation of Signalling Protein Molecules in Breast Cancer. International Journal on Emerging Technologies, 13(2): 01–05.'),(6130,'149','Optimization of Pearl Millet and Carrot based Gluten-free Pasta using Response Surface Methodology','Anitha S., Esther Magdalene Sharon M., Marx Nirmal R. and Mathanghi S.K.','Optimization-of-Pearl-Millet-and-Carrot-based-Gluten-free-Pasta-using-Response-Surface-Methodology-Esther-Magdalene-Sharon-M-74.pdf','',1,'Pasta is a convenient, ready-to-cook extruded product that is consumed worldwide. Usually, pasta is prepared using wheat as a major ingredient comprising gluten. Gluten possesses some allergic behaviour that leads to gluten-related disorders. The present study aims to formulate a Gluten-Free (GF) pasta with pearl millet flour, tapioca flour and carrot powder as significant ingredients. Pearl millet, tapioca and carrot serves as an effective gluten-free alternative, packed with high nutritional value. The development of gluten-free pasta includes the addition of pearl millet flour (PMF) and carrot powder (CP) at different proportions. The developed GF pasta samples were optimized through response surface methodology (RSM) using colour, texture and overall acceptability as responses. Based on the responses the treatment with 12% of carrot powder and 58% of pearl millet resulted in higher sensory scores for colour, texture, and overall acceptability, which were determined to be 8.7, 8.5 and 8.8 respectively. The optimized treatment was found to have the maximum desirability. Thus, the results demonstrate that the optimized gluten-free pasta has higher acceptability, besides its benefit as a gluten-free product.','Pasta, gluten-free pasta, millet pasta, optimization, response surface methodology','This study demonstrated that, both PMF and CP affects the sensory attributes like colour and appearance, texture and overall acceptability when different proportion of pearl millet flour and carrot powder were used to formulate the gluten free pasta with standardized amount of tapioca flour and xanthan gum. The optimized product with 58% of PMF and 12% of CP resulted in higher sensory attributes. Addition of tapioca flour and xanthan gum increased the structural stability of the developed gluten-free pasta. People with celiac disease have a serious gluten intolerance and need to eat gluten-free meals to stay well. Other people may have nonceliac gluten sensitivity and find that cutting out gluten reduces gas and bloating. Some individuals choose to follow a gluten-free diet because they believe it to be more healthful. By eliminating the gluten-causing disorder and to maintain a healthy food choice, a gluten-free diet can meet their demands. Commercialization of the product will serve as a healthy alternative for all age group, especially for people with gluten related disorders. Developed gluten-free pasta can satisfy the taste, satiety-oriented dieting and promote healthy aesthetic food habit of consumers.','-','Anitha S., Esther Magdalene Sharon M., Marx Nirmal R. and Mathanghi S.K. (2023). Optimization of Pearl Millet and Carrot based Gluten-free Pasta using Response Surface Methodology. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 15(2): 461-466.'),(6131,'149','Evaluation and Decomposing Capability of Isolated Microbial Cultures through Enzymatic Activities','Mohammad Y. Zargar and Misbah Ajaz','Evaluation-and-Decomposing-Capability-of-Isolated-Microbial-Cultures-through-Enzymatic-Activities-Misbah-Ajaz-75.pdf','',1,'Solid waste management is one of the global issue creating environmental, social and health problems because of its mismanaged disposal. Cold tolerant microbes have been found to enhance the decomposing process of the solid waste. Jammu Kashmir and Ladakh being one of the colder places in India have the highest possibility of having cold tolerant microbes that can enhance the decomposition process of the waste. In order to find the most efficient cold tolerant microorganism, the present investigation was undertaken during 2020-21 to isolate and characterize such microbes from Gurez and Ladakh regions for prompt decomposition of the waste so as to enhance the nutrient status of the manure.\r\nFrom the last two years (2020-21), a total of twenty seven (27) Lactic acid bacterial isolates, eighteen Actinomycetes isolates, twenty Pseudomonas sp. and twenty one Bacillus sp. were isolated from Gurez valley. Among these only nine (09), eleven (11), seven (07), and eleven (11) were cold tolerant microorganisms of Lactic acid bacteria, Actinomycetes, Pseudomonas sp. and Bacillus sp. respectively which were characterized by morphological and biochemical approach based. Qualitative and quantitative screening for different enzymatic activities was also carried out. Different selected isolates of lactic acid bacteria, actinomycetes, Pseudomonas sp. and Bacillus sp were selected for compatibility among one another based on their high enzyme activity. Five (05) different cold tolerant microbial consortia were developed based on their compatibility test and were utilized for in-vitro experiments at Faculty of Agriculture, Wadura and from in-vitro experiments, on the basis of improved nutrient status and enzyme activities, only 3 consortia were selected for Gurez (Izmarg).\r\n','Waste, cold tolerant, enzymatic activity, decomposition','Because of the tremendous importance of biodegradable solid waste decomposition through composting especially in temperate regions, the ability of psychrophilic enzymes to catalyze reactions at low or moderate temperatures offers great industrial and biotechnological potential. Various groups of bacteria from differentsites were isolated, identified and characterized on the basis of some important morphological and biochemical properties. The most potential isolates that were isolated and identified were lactic acid bacteria isolates, Actinomycetes isolates, Pseudomonas sp. and Bacillus sp from Gurez. Different enzyme tests (quantitative and qualitative) which include Amylase, Cellulase, protease and xylanase were assessed and overall,LG18, AG6, PG9, BG3 from Gurez showed high enzymatic activity which were further analysed for compatibility tests and on that basis five different cold tolerant consortia were developed and utilized for in vitro and invivo experiments respectively for degradation of solid waste under cold tolerant conditions at Gurez valley. ','-','Mohammad Y. Zargar and Misbah Ajaz (2023). Evaluation and Decomposing Capability of Isolated Microbial Cultures through Enzymatic Activities. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 15(2): 467-475.'),(6132,'149','Seedling Emergence and Seedling Growth Parameters of Late kharif Onion (Allium cepa L.) in Response to Sowing Dates and varieties in North-East India','Vandna, Sailen Gogoi, Mukesh Kumar, R.K. Jat, Reecha T. Das and Sheetal Rawat ','Seedling-Emergence-and-Seedling-Growth-Parameters-of-Late-kharif-Onion-(Allium-cepa-L.)-in-Response-to-Sowing-Dates-and-varieties-in-North-East-India-Mukesh-Kumar-76.pdf','',1,'Growing late kharif onion varieties on a specific time has been a major concern for onion growers for continues supply of onion in market especially during November to February and to get high market price. In recent years so many varieties had been developed for late kharif season but their performance in a particular region at a specific time need to evaluate specially in North-East India due to erratic monsoon, cloudy weather, continuous drizzling. This perspective paper presents the response of various onion varieties at different sowing dates in Assam. Research experiment was carried out during the year 2020-21 and 2021-22 at Horticulture Experimental Farm, Department of Horticulture, College of Agriculture, Assam Agricultural University, Jorhat, Assam. The experiment was laid out in factorial Randomized Block Design with five red onion varieties viz., Arka Kalyan, Bhima Dark Red, Agrifound Dark Red, Bhima Super and Bhima Red and three dates of sowing viz., 25th August, 5th September and 15th September which were replicated three times. Results obtained showed that onion varieties, sowing dates and their interactions were significantly different when it comes to the seedling height 25, 30, 35 and 40 DAS, and seedling growth index 25, 30, 35 and 40 days after sowing. The variety Bhima Super sowing at 25th August showed highest plant height (19.25 cm) and maximum seedling growth index (2150.43) after 40 days sowing on pooled analysis, which helps to determine the level of activity and performance of the seed. Vigorous and healthy seeds also perform better in field and can be used as green onions for curries and salad. Days to 50% emergence of onion seedling was not affected by varieties, sowing dates and their interactions.','Onion, Bhima Super, Varieties, August, Seedling, Late kharif','From the present study, it was found that the sowing dates, varieties and their interaction showed significant effect on most of the growth parameters of onion plant except days to 50 % seedling emergence. Early sowing D1 (25th August) performed better than other sowing dates. Out of five varieties, Bhima Super (V4) and Bhima Red (V5) exhibited better growth. Among the treatment combinations, D1V4 (Bhima Super on 25th August sowing) was the best in seedling height (19.25 cm) and seedling growth index (2150.43) at 40 days after sowing. These treatment combination offers great potential for healthy and vigorous seedlings production in onion which finally shows better performance in the main field in terms of yield and yield attributing characters. Nutrient and chlorophyll content of the leaves were not investigated in the study. Such study may be conducted in future. ','-','Vandna, Sailen Gogoi, Mukesh Kumar, R.K. Jat, Reecha T. Das and Sheetal Rawat (2023). Seedling Emergence and Seedling Growth Parameters of Late kharif Onion (Allium cepa L.) in Response to Sowing Dates and varieties in North-East India. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 15(2): 476-480.'),(6133,'149','Estimations of Heritability in a Narrow Sense and Genetic Gain for Diverse Typescripts in Tomato (Solanum lycopersicum L.)','Lav Kumar and G.C. Yadav','Estimations-of-Heritability-in-a-Narrow-Sense-and-Genetic-Gain-for-Diverse-Typescripts-in-Tomato-(Solanum-lycopersicum-L.)-Lav-Kumar-77.pdf','',1,'The present experiment was carried out to investigate the 55 genotypes (45 F1 and 10 parental lines) of tomato (Solanum lycopersicum L.) in a field trial at Experimental Station, Department of Vegetable Science, A.N.D. University of Agriculture and Technology, Kumarganj, Ayodhya (U.P.). The treatments were arranged in a set of ten parental lines and their F1developed by the diallel cross was later evaluated in a randomized block design and maintained three replications for each treatment in the year 2020-21 and 2021-22. The superiority of F1 determines by the high estimate of heritability in narrow-sense (>30), which showed by the parameters including plant height, primary branch, total soluble sugar and non-reducing, in both experimental years as well in pooled whereas expected gain or high genetic advance in per cent of mean (>20%) was observed for total fruit yield per plant, marketable fruit yield per plant, locules per fruit, average fruit weight, fruit per plant, primary branch, plant height, days to 50 % flowering in both the years. High estimates of heritability with high genetic advance as per cent of mean provides a clear picture to the breeders for improvement during the process of selection. This investigation suggested that the selection of the high heritability (narrow sense) coupled with high genetic advance as per cent of the mean would be highly effective and efficient characters.','Tomato, Solanum lycopersicum L., heritability, narrow sense, genetic gain','Our study suggested that the high heritability (narrow sense) coupled with high genetic advance as per cent of mean reflected that traits primary branches per plant and plant height were governed by additive gene action and therefore, selection may be highly effective for the above-recorded characters.','-','Lav Kumar and G.C. Yadav (2023). Estimations of Heritability in a Narrow Sense and Genetic Gain for Diverse Typescripts in Tomato (Solanum lycopersicum L.). Biological Forum – An International Journal, 15(2): 481-484.'),(6134,'149','Impact of Integrated Nutrient and Weed Management on Yield Parameters and Yield of Zero Till Maize','K. Naganjali, K.P. Vani, M. Madhavi, P. Surendra Babu and S. Narender Reddy','Impact-of-Integrated-Nutrient-and-Weed-Management-on-Yield-Parameters-and-Yield-of-Zero-Till-Maize-K.-Naganjali-78.pdf','',1,'A field investigation was carried out during rabi, 2016-17 and 2017-18 at College Farm, Agricultural College, Aswaraopet, Bhadradri Kothagudem Dist. in sandy clay loam soil to evaluate and suggest suitable nutrient and weed management practice for zero tillage maize. During rabi, maize was grown under zero tillage in sequence to semi dry rice and followed three nutrient treatments {100% RDF, 75% RDF + 25% N through vermicompost and 75% RDF + 25% N through FYM} and four weed management practices {Control, Atrazine 50 WP 500 g a.i ha-1 + Paraquat 24 SL 0.6 kg a.i ha-1 fb 2,4 – D 0.5 kg a.i ha-1 at 25 DAS, Atrazine 50 WP 500 g a.i ha-1 fb (Topramezone 0.03 kg a.i ha-1 + Atrazine 50 WP 500 g a.i ha-1) at 25 DAS and Topramezone 0.03 kg a.i ha-1 + Atrazine 50 WP 500 g a.i ha-1 at 15 DAS fb intercultivation / HW at 35 DAS – Farmer’s Practice} were imposed in maize as sub plot treatments in split plot design which were replicated thrice. Significantly, enhanced yield components viz., no. of grains row-1, no. of grain rows cob-1, total no. of grains cob-1, cob weight, cob yield and grain and stover yield of maize were noticed with 75% RDF + 25% N through vermicompost and was at par with 75% RDF + 25% N through FYM in contrast to 100% RDF. Topramezone 0.03 kg a.i ha-1 + Atrazine 50 WP 500 g a.i ha-1 at 15 DAS fb intercultivation / HW at 35 DAS – Farmer’s Practice registered significantly higher yield parameters and yield while lower values were observed with control in zero till maize. Interaction effect of nutrient and weed management practices on yield parameters, grain and stover yield of zero till maize was found to be non-significant.','Nutrient, weed, yield attributes, grain yield, stover yield, zero till maize','Maize grown under zero till condition after semi dry rice resulted in enhanced yield parameters viz., cob length, cob girth, number of grains row-1, number of grain rows cob-1, number of grains cob-1, cob weight, cob yield, test weight, cob weight, grain and stover yield with 75% RDF + 25% N through vermicompost. Among different weed management practices imposed in zero till maize, S4 [Topramezone 0.03 kg a.i ha-1 + Atrazine 50 WP 500 g a.i ha-1 at 15 DAS fb intercultivation / HW at 35 DAS – Farmer’s Practice] recorded higher yield attributes. ','-','K. Naganjali, K.P. Vani, M. Madhavi, P. Surendra Babu and S. Narender Reddy (2023). Impact of Integrated Nutrient and Weed Management on Yield Parameters and Yield of Zero Till Maize. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 15(2): 485-492.'),(6135,'149','Phyto-diversity Assessment of Kaimur District of Bihar, Eastern India','A. Chandra, H.B. Naithani, P.K. Verma and M. Sanawar','Phyto-diversity-Assessment-of-Kaimur-District-of-Bihar,-Eastern-India-A.-Chandra-79.pdf','',1,'Inventorization and monitoring of phyto-biodiversity is essential for its sustainable use and management. In the present study, we assessed the phyto-diversity of Bihar’s Kaimur district. Total species reported from the area were 190 species (155 genera and 56 families) including 48 families of dicotyledons, 5 of monocotyledons and 3 of pteridophytes. The largest two families of the area were Papilionaceae (18 species) and Poaceae (17 species). Based on habit, 99 trees 23 shrub, 15 vine and 53 herb species were reported. Various diversity indices viz. Shannon-Wiener Index, Concentration of dominance, Species Richness Index and Evenness were calculated for different layers. This study revealed that the Majaonda Barchiada site is the most diverse in the region, followed by Konda Bajraco, Rondi and Chakarghata Nadi. The results of the study will be very helpful for different target groups for conserving and managing and phyto-diversity of areas. ','Plant Diversity, Phytosociology, Shannon Wiener index, Evenness','In the present work a total of 190 species (56 families, 155 genera) were reported from the forest sites of Kaimur district. It includes 48 Dicotyledons families (129 genera, 165 species), 5 monocotyledons families (23 genera, 25 species) and 3 Pteridophyte families (3 genera, 3 species). Largest family reported from the area is Poaceae (17 genera, 17 species) followed by Papilionaceae (12 genera, 18 species), Rubiaceae (11 genera, 12 species), Mimosaceae (6 genera, 10 species), Asteraceae (9 genera, 9 species), Moraceae (4 genera, 9 species), Caesalpiniaceae (4 genera, 8 species), Combretaceae (3 genera, 8 species) etc. Largest genus is Ficus (6 species) followed by Terminalia (5 species), Albizia (3 species), Desmodium (3 species) etc. On the basis of habit, there are 99 tree, 23 shrub, 15 climber and 53 herb species in the area. Important native tree species of the district are Shorea robusta, Madhuca longifolia var. latifolia, Buchanania lanzan, Terminalia bellirica, Terminalia alata, Butea monosperma, Lagerstroemia parviflora, Mytragyna parvifolia, Adina cordifolia, Albizia lebbeck, Anogeissus latifolia, Dalbergia lanceolaria etc. The presence of Lantana camara var. aculeata was observed in the district. It is expected that species may pose threat to natural vegetation in the future. Therefore, suitable management strategies should be adopted to check the invasion of invasive species. The study will be extremely useful for the preparation of future working plan of the forest division and plant diversity related assessment studies.','-','A. Chandra, H.B. Naithani, P.K. Verma and M. Sanawar (2023). Phyto-diversity Assessment of Kaimur District of Bihar, Eastern India. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 15(2): 485-499.'),(6136,'149','Key Mortality Factors of Prospalta capensis (Guenee) Infesting Safflower','R.P. Palkar and V. K. Bhamare','Key-Mortality-Factors-of-Prospalta-capensis-(Guenee)-Infesting-Safflower-R.P.pdf','',1,'Life tables are a method for tracking population birth and death rates over time. They can also be used to calculate the causes and rates of population death, which has a wide range of applications in ecology, particularly in agricultural ecosystems. Field life tables were organized for defining mortality factors of Prospalta capensis in rabi 2020-21. It was detected that P. capensis completed two generations on safflower. The life table of field-collected life stages discovered that early and late instar larval stages were the most susceptible ones for mortality due to Aleiodes sp. and unknown reasons. Apanteles sp. also caused some mortality in larvae. The negative value of the trend index (<1) during the first generation exhibited that the mortality factors were effective in causing the decline. The generation survival rate for the first and second generations was 0.12 and 0.38, respectively.','Prospalta capensis, safflower, life tables, survival rate, trend index, Aleiodes sp., Apanteles sp','From the present investigation it is concluded that the key mortality factors viz., Aleiodes sp., Apanteles sp. and unknown reasons regulated the population of P. capensis infesting safflower.','-','R.P. Palkar and V. K. Bhamare (2023). Key Mortality Factors of Prospolta capensis (Guenee) Infesting Safflower. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 15(2): 500-503.'),(6137,'149','Seed Collection, Extraction and Processing of Important Woody Species of Western Himalayan Region of India','Ranjeet Kumar, Akran Jamwal, Pravin Rawat, Sandeep Sharma and Pitamber Singh Negi','Seed-Collection,-Extraction-and-Processing-of-Important-Woody-Species-of-Western-Himalayan-Region-of-IndiaRanjeet-Kumar-81.pdf','',1,'Seed collection is the first and foremost step, which determines the success of any plantation programme. There is a continuous need of plantation programme in forests because of gradual loss of natural forest due to various anthropogenic and developmental activities. The establishment of fully stocked forests will fulfill the diversified needs of local people and reduce pressure on forests. Reforestation through plantation requires a constant supply of high quality seeds and production of quality planting stock. A lot of work has been carried out by various authors on this aspect, but the information is scattered and only focused on a specific part. The present study aimed to review the previous work carried out in this aspect and club information from different sources together to provide complete information at one platform. The information was clubbed together from different sources like published research papers, books, articles and on the basis of personal field experience. Our study provides information on flowering, fruiting, seed collection time and extraction of 37 ecologically and economically important tree species of Western Himalayan region of India. The review paper will be helpful to the academicians, researchers and foresters to provide information on flowering /fruiting time, fruit maturity and right time to collect seeds at fullest maturity followed by appropriate extraction and germination procedure. ','Seed collection, seed extraction, seed maturity, seed viability, Western Himalayan region','The present study aimed to review the previous work on flowering time, fruiting maturity, seed collection, extraction, processing and germination details and club information together and provide an overview on past work done on the given aspects. The present review paper provides all information on flowering, fruiting, seed collection time and extraction for 37 ecologically and economically important tree species of Western Himalaya. The findings will be helpful to the stakeholders to provide information about right time of seed collection, judging fruits on the basis maturity indicators, after collection handling precautions, their extraction and processing along with the seed germination pretreatments. The nursery owners, forest managers and small scale planters can proceed with seed collection program accordingly.','-','Ranjeet Kumar, Akran Jamwal, Pravin Rawat, Sandeep Sharma and Pitamber Singh Negi (2023). Seed Collection, Extraction and Processing of Important Woody Species of Western Himalayan Region of India. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 15(2): 504-513.'),(6138,'149','Simarouba gluca Leaf Extract as a Potential Antimicrobial against Antibiotic Resistant Environmental Isolates of Escherichia coli','Adithya S.B., Hareesh P.S. and Ramya R. Prabhu','Simarouba-gluca-Leaf-Extract-as-a-Potential-Antimicrobial-against-Antibiotic-Resistant-Environmental-Isolates-of-Escherichia-coli-Ramya-R-Prabhu-82.pdf','',1,'The emergence of antibiotic resistant bacteria is posing a challenge and threat to the environment; especially their prevalence in water bodies. One of the most prevalent bacteria in water bodies is E. coli which is usually found in the gastrointestinal tract of animals. This is a pilot study carried out from January 2022 to July 2022, whose major challenge was to identify the presence of such antibiotic resistant E. coli in surface waters of a polluted river namely Killi river, a major river in Trivandrum district. The isolated bacteria were confirmed to be E. coli by biochemical and molecular analysis. Then we were interested to look for a potential plant extract which can act as a natural remedy against such multi drug resistant environmental isolates. With this aim in mind, methanolic extract of the leaves of the paradise tree, Simarouba gluca was prepared, the qualitative phytochemical composition analysed and confirmed by TLC. The antibacterial effect of the extract was studied using the agar diffusion method and it showed that the methanolic extract of S. gluca exhibited good antimicrobial activity against antibiotic resistant E. coli. This study is the first of its kind to have demonstrated the effectiveness of the plant extract of S. gluca as a potent antimicrobial agent against environmental strains of E. coli that are resistant to some of the common antibiotics. The contribution of the study is that it would offer a better option for designing plant based compounds while preparing drugs for combating these kinds of bacteria.','S. gluca, Methanolic extract, E. coli, Killi river, Antibiotic resistance, Trivandrum','The pilot study has been successful in isolation and characterisation of antibiotic resistant environmental strains of E. coli from polluted water in a major river of Trivandrum city. In this study, the E. coli isolated, from the four stations of Killi river showed resistance mostly to only penicillin and cephalosporin antibiotics, but it could be a possibility that this study has not identified other bacteria which are resistant to other cephalosporin or carbapenem antibiotics and such antibioticresistant strains could still be present in these waters. This calls for more study and analysis of the surface waters in a major river to see the presence of such bacteria and further suitable intervention as it is highly dependent upon by the citizens. Methanolic extract of S. gluca was found to be highly effective against such environmental isolates of E. coli which is resistant to antibiotics. A major scope is developing the plant extract of S. gluca to a suitable drug formulation as it has shown effectiveness against environmental isolates of the gut bacteria, E. coli.','-','Adithya S.B., Hareesh P.S. and Ramya R. Prabhu (2023). Simarouba gluca Leaf Extract as a Potential Antimicrobial against Antibiotic Resistant Environmental Isolates of Escherichia coli. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 15(2): 514-519.'),(6139,'150','Formulation and Development of Oral Dental Films of Doxycycline Loaded Chitosan Films for efficient Treatment of Periodontitis','Jaydeep Dusane and Ashok Bhosale','Formulation-and-Development-of-Oral-Dental-Films-of-Doxycycline-Loaded-Chitosan-Films-for-efficient-Treatment-of-Periodontitis-Jaydeep-Dusane-2.pdf','',1,'The present study demonstrates the development of intrapocket dental films of Doxycycline for efficient treatment of periodontitis. The films were developed by solvent casting method using chitosan, TPP, and PEG 400 as polymer, crosslinking agent, and plasticizer respectively. The developed films were characterised by physicochemical properties including drug release, tensile strength, and bactericidal activity against E. coli and Staphylococcus aureus. One of the major challenges was achieving uniform drug distribution in the chitosan matrix. Doxycycline has poor solubility in water and acidic pH, which are the conditions required for chitosan gelation. To get uniform drug distribution proper mixing of the drug was carried out in polymeric dispersion. All physical parameters of the films were found to be acceptable for dental application. It was observed that the drug release occurred in a sustained manner. The optimised film formulation was found to be stable over 2 months at accelerated conditions. This newly developed film could be used as a potential alternative drug delivery system for peridontitis conditions.','Doxycycline, chitosan, TPP, PEG 400, bactericidal','The aforementioned results justify the use of Doxycycline in films developed with chitosan, TPP, and PEG 400 as polymer, crosslinking agent, and plasticizer respectively. The films\' physicochemical characteristics were deemed to be acceptable. It was discovered that the drug release occurred in a sustained manner. The DOX-loaded films demonstrated good bactericidal efficacy against E. coli and Staphylococcus aureus. The drug did not interact chemically with the excipients while being stored at accelerated stability conditions. This newly developed film could be used for future medication delivery applications in peridontitis conditions.','-','Jaydeep Dusane and Ashok Bhosale (2023). Formulation and Development of Oral Dental Films of Doxycycline Loaded Chitosan Films for efficient Treatment of Periodontitis. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 15(3): 06-15.'),(6140,'149','Comparative Evaluation of different Marketed Brands of Levetiracetam Tablet','Prakash S. Sukhramani, Mahesh K. Senghani, Sharav Desai, Nitin G. Sutar and Vipul P. Patel','Comparative-Evaluation-of-Different-Marketed-Brands-of-Levetiracetam-Tablet-Sharav-Desai-83.pdf','',1,'Epilepsy is one of the utmost prevalent neurological conditions; its primary treatment is the administration of antiepileptic drugs (AEDs). An antiepileptic medication with excellent pharmacologic properties is levetiracetam (LEV) which shows initiative in improving seizure control. For the treatment of focal onset, myoclonic, and primary generalized seizures in both adults and children, levetiracetam has been recommended. It shows a significant affinity for a synaptic vesicle protein (SV2A). The study was assessed to find out the parameters of different brands of LEVETIRACETAM tablets I.P. in Mandvi region, Kutch (Gujarat) to match them typically with the standard parameters of I.P. specifications. The tablets available in the market of several brands were taken for investigation and tablets were evaluated for different quality control tests like weight variation, hardness, friability, disintegration time, and dissolution rate. The recorded weight variation was<10%, and hardness results were less than 4-10 kg-ft. and the friability results were also not more than 1 %. As per the in-vitro dissolution of each brand, the results observed more than 70% release.','Levetiracetam, Anti-epilepsy, physicochemical Parameters, Immediate release, Tablet','The pharmaceutical sector relies on a variety of factors to maintain quality, including employee qualifications, the quality of active pharmaceutical components, validation of the production process, location, etc. All the brands of tablets utilized in the study\'s weight variation, hardness, friability, disintegration time, and dissolving test were within IP-specified limits. Acceptable hardness, friability, disintegration time, and dissolving profiles were displayed by most of the brands. Nonetheless, when compared to the other brands, B4 and B5 exhibited good dissolving profiles. This work can be a usefulsuggestion in the case of seeking compatibilities of the sample formulations along with the standardsmentioned in the official Pharmacopoeia. \r\nThis study supports the necessity for ongoing, thorough monitoring of Levetiracetam tablets that are sold in the nation to assure their quality and that their maintenance is directly related to public health.\r\n','-','Prakash S. Sukhramani, Mahesh K. Senghani, Sharav Desai, Nitin G. Sutar and Vipul P. Patel (2023). Comparative Evaluation of different Marketed Brands of Levetiracetam Tablet. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 15(2): 520-527.'),(6141,'149','Evaluation of Botanicals for the Management of Root-Knot Nematode, Meloidogyne incognita on Brinjal (Solanum melongena L.)',' Vikas Kumar Aloria, M.K. Sharma, Vishnu Dadhich, Rameshwar Lal and Mukesh Jaiman ','Evaluation-of-Botanicals-for-the-Management-of-Root-Knot-Nematode,-Meloidogyne-incognita-on-Brinjal-(Solanum-melongena-L.)-Vikas-Kumar-Aloria-84.pdf','',1,'Brinjal (Solanum melongena) crop output is significantly affected by root-knot nematodes, particularly Meloidogyne incognita. Root-galls of brinjal produced by Meloidogyne incognita can be efficiently suppressed by applying botanicals, which boosts yield and plant growth. Experimental was carried out of evaluation of botanicals for the management of root-knot nematode, Meloidogyne incognita (Kofoid and White 1919) Chitwood, 1949 on Brinjal, efficacy of botanicals viz., Tulsi, Pyrethrum, Datura, Ashwagandha and Congress grass were added to soil each @ 2.5 and 5 gm per kg soil. Plants were harvested after 60 days of transplanting and the observations on plant growth characters viz., shoot length, shoot weight, root length, root weight and nematode reproduction viz., No. of galls/ plant, No. of egg masses/plant, No. of egg and larvae/ egg mass, nematode juvenile/ 200 cc soil and total nematode population in soil were recorded. Soil application of Datura @ 5 gm/kg soil was found superior treatment, whereas shoot length (41.90 cm), shoot weight (31.40gm), root length (32.70cm), root weight (3.85gm) and nematode reproduction viz., No. of galls/ plant (19.00), No. of egg masses/plant (13.00), No. of egg and larvae/ egg mass (75.00), nematode juvenile/ 200 cc soil (289.00) and total nematode population in soil (3865.00), respectively, followed by Pyrethrum @ 5 gm/kg soil and Congress grass @ 5 gm/kg soil in improving plant growth of brinjal and reducing reproduction of root knot nematode.','Management, Root-knot Nematode, Botanicals and Brinjal','Results of soil application trial with leaves powder of Datura (Datura stramonium) @ 5 gm/kg soil, Pyrethrum (Chrysanthemum cinerarieaefolium) @ 5 gm/kg soiland Congress grass (Parthenium hysterophorus) @ 5 gm/kg soilwere effective for improving the growth of brinjal and reducing infection and reproduction of root knot nematode, Meloidogyne incognita. The effect of botanicals in brinjal crop infested with root-knot nematode, M. incognita. Results showed that application of datura was found to be the best treatment to enhance plant growth characters and minimum nematode reproduction @ 5gm/kg soil.','-','Vikas Kumar Aloria, M.K. Sharma, Vishnu Dadhich, Rameshwar Lal and Mukesh Jaiman (2023). Evaluation of Botanicals for the Management of Root-Knot Nematode, Meloidogyne incognita on Brinjal (Solanum melongena L.). Biological Forum – An International Journal, 15(2): 528-533.'),(6142,'149','Integrated use of Herbicides and different Fertility Levels in Suppressing the Weed Species in Indian Mustard (Brassica juncea)','Shweta Gupta, Sudesh Kumar, Seema Sharma, Pratibha Singh and Manisha Jangir','Integrated-use-of-Herbicides-and-different-Fertility-Levels-in-Suppressing-the-Weed-Species-in-Indian-Mustard-(Brassica-juncea)-Shweta-Gupta-85.pdf','',1,'A field experiment was conducted at research farm, Rajasthan Agricultural Research Institute, Durgapura, Jaipur for 2 consecutive years during rabi seasons 2014-15 and 2015-16 on loamy sand soil. The twenty-four treatment combinations consisting of 3 fertility levels {100% RDF; 100% RDF + K + Zn and 125% (RDF + K + Zn)} and 8 herbicidal treatments (Weedy check, weed free, pendimethalin 30 EC, pendimethalin 38.7 CS, pyrazosulfuron-ethyl 10 WP, oxydiargyl 6 EC, propaquizafop 10% EC and fluazifop-p-butyl 13.4% EC) were tested in mustard in factorial randomized block design with 3 replications. Chenopodium album, Argemone maxicana, Portulaca oleraceae, Tithonia diversifolia, and Heliotropium ovalifolium among the broadleaved weeds, Cyperus rotundus among the sedges and Cynodon dactylon among the grasses were predominant throughout the cropping period of mustard. Results showed that weed density of most of the broad-leaved weeds and total dry weight was most effectively controlled by pendimethalin 38.7 CS @ 750g a.i./ha, followed by pendimethalin 30 EC @ 750 g a.i./ha and oxydiargyl 6 EC pre-emergence @ 90 g a.i./ha whereas propaquizafop 10% EC @ 100 g a.i./ha (POE) and fluazifop-p-butyl 13.4 % EC @ 134 g a.i./ha (POE) significantly decreased the density of grassy weeds. Pyrazosulfuron-ethyl 10 WP as pre-emergence showed phytotoxic effect on the germination of mustard. Maximum siliqua length, siliquae per plant, seed and stover yield were obtained under weed free, which was found at par with pendimethalin 38.7 CS @ 750 g a.i./ha. The siliqua length, siliquae per plant, seed and stover yield were significantly higher in fertility level 125% (RDF + K + Zn) in mustard. Pendimethalin 38.7 CS combined with 125% (RDF + K + Zn) or 100% RDF + K + Zn and weed free along with 125% (RDF + K + Zn) were found at par with each other and most superior treatment combinations for obtaining higher seed yield in mustard. Thus, integrated use of 100% RDF + K + Zn with pendimethalin 38.7 CS @ 750g a.i./ha appeared to be the most promising approach for effective weed management and obtaining higher productivity of Indian mustard.','Pendimethalin, oxydiargyl, propaquizafop, fluazifop-p-butyl, fertility levels, herbicides, siliqua, stover','On the basis of pooled data, it can be concluded that pre-emergence application of pendimethalin 38.7 CS @ 750g a.i./ha reduces the weed density and total dry weight of broadleaf weeds whereas propaquizafop 10% EC @ (POE) and fluazifop-p-butyl 13.4 % EC @ 134 g a.i./ha (POE) significantly decreased the density and total dry weight of grassy weeds in comparison to other herbicidal treatments. Weed free produced the maximum pooled seed yield and stover yield, followed by pendimethalin 38.7 CS pre-emergence @ 750 g a.i./ha treatment. Highest yield of mustard was obtained in weed free plots when fertilizer was given at the rate of 125% RDF + K + Zn, which was closely followed by the pendimethalin CS at the same dose of fertilizer. Combined application of Pendimethalin 38.7 CS + 100% RDF + K + Zn was found at par with the highest yield observed under weed free + 125% RDF + K + Zn and hence it is recommended in case of scarce labor condition. ','-','Shweta Gupta, Sudesh Kumar, Seema Sharma, Pratibha Singh and Manisha Jangir (2023). Integrated use of Herbicides and Different Fertility Levels in Suppressing the Weed Species in Indian Mustard (Brassica juncea). Biological Forum – An International Journal, 15(2): 534-540.'),(6143,'149','Standardization of Pretreatment for the Development of the Edible Flour from the Indian Horse Chestnut (Aesculus indica Colebra.)','Jyoti Rani, N.S. Thakur, Abhimanyu Thakur and Pavneet Kaur','Standardization-of-Pretreatment-for-the-Development-of-the-Edible-Flour-from-the-Indian-Horse-Chestnut-(Aesculus-indica-Colebra.)-Jyoti-Rani-86.pdf','',1,'Aesculus indica Colebr. which is popularly known as Indian horse chestnut. It is a good source of starch but contains toxic compounds such as saponins which make it a bitter and unsuitable for consumption. To utilize the starch source for edible purposes, saponins were first reduced to an acceptable level by pretreating the crushed mass of Indian horse chestnut. Studies were undertaken to remove the saponins content from the horse chestnut mass by pre-treatments. Prescribed methods were used to evaluate the results at Dr. YS Parmar University of Horticulture and Forestry, Nauni, Solan, Himachal Pradesh. Various physcio-chemical characteristics of nut and flour were determined like moisture, crude protein, fiber, fat, total carbohydrate, ash content, saponins, reducing sugars and total sugars. Nuts after dehulling were crushed/grated into a mass which was treated with various treatments. Pre-treatments were used to remove the saponin content of the horse chestnut mass. After dehulling, the nuts were grated into a mass and then treated with various treatments. The grated mass can be blanched for 4 min for followed by soaking in water for 6 hours at 60oC while replacing the water in three cycles of every 2 hours. Same pretreated mass was further soaked in ethanol: water solvent (30:70) for 6 h at 60oC while replacing the water in three cycles of every 2 hours. Then, further ultrasound assisted extraction was done with 30 per cent ethanol in water for 15 minutes at 50 ± 1°C and further soaking can be performed at 60oC while replacing the solvent mixture in three cycles of 2 h. After all the previous sequential treatments, the mass was dried in mechanical cabinet drier at 60 ± 2°C. In the end of all pretreatments the formation of froth was negligible and saponins content could be reduced 6.50 ± 0.04 to 0.88 g/100g in the treated mass.','Anti- nutrition, blanching, Indian horse chestnut, pre-treatment, saponins','To remove saponins content from horse chestnut mass (grated materials), various pre-treatments like blanching, cooking, ethanol soaking and ultrasound assisted extraction were followed and best treatments were selected on the basis of froth formation and amount of saponins. Pretreatments such as blanching, soaking and ultrasound and microwave extraction techniques were standardized. The best selected treatments were then evaluated further based on maximum saponins removal and minimum froth percentage. In the end, a treatment with low saponin content and unstable froth was used to make the flour. ','-','Jyoti Rani, N.S. Thakur, Abhimanyu Thakur and Pavneet Kaur (2023). Standardization of Pretreatment for the Development of the Edible Flour from the Indian Horse Chestnut (Aesculus indica Colebra.). Biological Forum – An International Journal, 15(2): 541-548.'),(6144,'149','Effect of Balanced Nutrient Approaches on Nutrient Uptake and Nutrient use Efficiency of different Rice Varieties under Zero-tilled Upland Condition in Eastern India',' Bhagyashree Phogat, Seema Sepat, Kajal Arora, Narendra Kumar Pareek, Abhijeet Purohit and Ravina Beniwal','Effect of Balanced Nutrient Approaches on Nutrient Uptake and Nutrient use Efficiency of different Rice Varieties under Zero-tilled Upland Condition in Eastern India-Seema Sepat-87-4462.pdf','',1,'In rice based cropping system balanced fertigation through new approaches under zero till upland condition ensures high productivity and sustainability in long run. In this context, research was conducted to find out effect on nutrient uptake and nutrient use efficiency i.e. by balanced fertilization. Therefore, A field experiment was conducted at Central Rain-fed Upland Rice Research Station (CRURRS), Hazaribagh, research station in Jharkhand with the objective to determine better nutrient management practices for zero till upland rice and their effect on yield and nutrient use efficiency. The experiment was laid out in split-plot design with three replications having three rice cultivar Vandana, Anjali and CR Dhan 40 in main plot and four nutrient management practices [soil test fertilizer recommendation meter (STFR), integrated nutrient management (INM), soil test crop response equation (STCR) and recommended dose of fertilizers (RDF)] in sub-plot. Results indicated that CR Dhan 40 rice cultivar recorded the highest concentration and uptake of N, P and K in grain than other varieties. In different nutrient management practices, STFR based NPK dose (100 kg N, 44 kg P2O5, 20 kg K2O + 5 t /ha lime) recorded the highest values of N, P and K uptake in grain, straw and total followed by INM (50 % RDF+ 50% Organics) based NPK dose [40 kg N, 28 kg P2O5, 10 kg K2O (50%) + 6 t/ha FYM (50%) + lime 1 t/ha] and STCR based NPK fertilization. Therefore, based on research findings, it can be concluded that rice cultivar “CR Dhan 40” with STFR and INM based fertilization may enhance the productivity and profitability of upland rice in the Eastern regions of India.','Split-plot design, integrated nutrient management (INM), zero till, nutrient use efficiency, rice cultivar','Based on the research findings, it can be concluded that rice cultivar CR Dhan 40 rice cultivar recorded the highest concentration and uptake of N, P and K in grain than other varieties. The concentration and uptake of N, P and K was recorded higher in STFR and INM followed by STCR based NPK fertilization. ','-','Bhagyashree Phogat, Seema Sepat, Kajal Arora, Narendra Kumar Pareek, Abhijeet Purohit and Ravina Beniwal (2023). Effect of Balanced Nutrient Approaches on Nutrient Uptake and Nutrient Use Efficiency of Different Rice Varieties Under Zero-tilled Upland Condition in Eastern India. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 15(2): 549-555.'),(6145,'149','Cluster Analysis in Emmer Wheat Germplasm using Quantitative Traits','Jatin Tanwar, Shivani Sharma, Preeti Jakhar, Gaurav Kumar, Vikas, V.K., Shailendra K. Jha and Jyoti Kumari','Cluster Analysis in Emmer Wheat Germplasm using Quantitative Traits-Jatin Tanwar-88.pdf','',1,'Diversity analysis play key role in the germplasm evaluation which is directly correlated with the improved crop production. Different statistical methods have been used to study diversity among genotypes such as cluster analysis, principal component analysis and factor analysis. Among these techniques cluster analysis is used for the grouping of individuals based on their attributes. Emmer wheat is a rich genetic resource for the improvement of durum and bread wheat because it possesses beneficial and economically significant traits like pest and disease resistance and tolerance to abiotic stresses. Despite the substantial potential of emmer wheat, limited efforts have been made for its improvement. In the present study a total of 192 dicoccum wheat accessions from the National Genebank were assessed for their genetic diversity analysis using agro-morphological traits under three different locations; namely ICAR-IARI, Experimental farm, New Delhi, ICAR-NBPGR, Experimental farm, Issapur, New Delhi, and ICAR-IARI, RS, Wellington, Experimental farm, Tamil Nadu. Data were recorded for 14 different quantitative traits. Cluster analysis grouped the total 192 dicoccum wheat accessions into six clusters with Cluster I and VI being in contrast for several traits which may be used in selection of diverse parents for crossing program. The cluster membership of accessions revealed that Cluster I, IV and V consisted of mainly indigenous accessions whereas Cluster VI consisted of mainly exotic accessions. Cluster II and Cluster III consisted both indigenous and exotic accessions. ','Emmer wheat, Cluster analysis, Dendrogram, Quantitative traits, Germplasm categorization','Cluster analysis grouped the total 192 accessions into six clusters. Cluster III is the largest (59 acc.) and V is the smallest one (12 acc.). Cluster I, Cluster IV and Cluster V consisted of mainly indigenous germplasm whereas Cluster VI consisted of mainly exotic germplasm. Cluster I had accessions with low plant height and high grains per spike, high thousand grain weight and grain length. Moreover, high peduncle length, spike length, spikelets per spike, grain width and grain yield of one metre row length was observed in cluster VI. Thus, Cluster I and VI being contrast for several traits may be used in selection of diverse parents for crossing program.','-','Jatin Tanwar, Shivani Sharma, Preeti Jakhar, Gaurav Kumar, Vikas, V.K., Shailendra K. Jha and Jyoti Kumari (2023). Cluster Analysis in Emmer Wheat Germplasm using Quantitative Traits. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 15(2): 556-560.'),(6146,'149','Review on Aquaponics Exordium: A Key Towards Sustainable Resource Management','Sayan Mandal, Avik Bhanja, Manas Das, Pijush Payra, Ganga Mandal, Pritish Bera and Basudev Mandal','Review on Aquaponics Exordium A Key Towards Sustainable Resource Management-Basudev Mandal-89.pdf','',1,'In China, fish and vegetables were first grown simultaneously 1,500 years ago. This has spread globally. Aquaponics mixes fish and plants for maximum productivity and resource conservation. 1970s: This approach was developed. Aquaponics combines recirculating aquaculture and soilless hydroponics. Aquaponics uses water and nutrients efficiently, reduces or eliminates negative environmental effects, and incorporates living and ecological activities. Aquaculture systems grow plants and fish. This page presents a comprehensive overview of aquaponics, including its origins, two main components (hydroponics and recirculatory aquaculture), benefits, and drawbacks. Aquaponics combines plant and aquatic growth in one system. Population growth, urbanization, industrialization, and other factors boost the need for food. Aquaponics is environmentally good since plants can consume fish excrement (plants). It might ensure long-term food availability. Commercial aquaponics will have problems adapting high-value flowering crops like sweet peppers, tomatoes, or cucumbers due to suboptimal nutrient ratios in the aquaponic solution, particularly the reduced K+ and Ca+. This was discovered in publications looking into challenges. Overall, it was discovered that the function of plant-promoting microbes in nutrient uptake is the most significant aspect of aquaponics that requires further study.','Aquaponic, Hydroponic, Recirculatory Aquaculture System, Sustainable','It was an innovative technology with sustainable supplies of food all over the world that, by marginalizing the supply chains, had the potential to advance food security and the pliability of the food system. Aquaponic systems were responsible for this. It is able to produce a high yield with only a minimal addition of nutrients, drastically reducing the amount of nutrients that are discharged and the amount of water that is lost from the aquaculture. In the not-too-distant future, productive research will be required on the hydroponic components, system design, knowledgeable fish selections, the introduction of flowering or fruit plant cultivation, and the incorporation of species of mutually beneficial microorganisms in order to increase the effectiveness of the aquaponic system.','-','Sayan Mandal, Avik Bhanja, Manas Das, Pijush Payra, Ganga Mandal, Pritish Bera and Basudev Mandal (2023). Review on Aquaponics Exordium: A Key Towards Sustainable Resource Management. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 15(2): 561-573.'),(6147,'149','Biology of Spotted Pod Borer, Maruca vitrata (Fabricius) (Lepidoptera: Crambidae) on Cowpea, Vigna unguiculata (L.) under Laboratory condition','R.M. Patel, H.C. Patel, D.B. Sisodiya and R.K. Thumar','Biology of Spotted Pod Borer, Maruca vitrata (Fabricius) (Lepidoptera Crambidae) on Cowpea, Vigna unguiculata (L.) under Laboratory Condition-RM Patel-90.pdf','',1,'The laboratory investigation on biology of spotted pod borer, Maruca vitrata (Fabricius) on cowpea was carried out during the year 2021 at the Department of Agricultural Entomology, B. A. College of Agriculture, Anand Agricultural University, Anand. A female laid on an average 36.36 eggs singly or in batches on flower buds and tender pods with 3.2 days incubation period and 84 percent egg hatching. The larval development passed through five instar and completed within 13.24 days. Each larval instar of M. vitrata i.e., 1st to 5th instar took 1.52, 2.67, 2.76, 2.81 and 3.48 days, respectively. The pre-pupal and pupal stage completed within 1.43 and 7.95 days, respectively. The pre-oviposition, oviposition and post-oviposition period lasted for 2.0, 3.91 and 2.18 days, respectively. In case of adult stage of M. vitrata, sex ratio of male: female was 1: 1.10 with longevity of male and female was 5.10 and 8.09 days of male and female, respectively and growth index was 7.55. The total life span of male and female M. vitrata was completed within 29.82 and 32.36 days, respectively. The Apanteles taragamae larval parasitoids, which kill larvae and larvae feed inside the pods, are the main challenges of studying this pest, so when changing the food, be careful and critically observe all the pods before throwing them away.','Biology, cowpea, instar, M. vitrata, spotted pod borer','The biology of spotted pod borer on cowpea during kharif season revealed that the total life cycle of spotted pod borer was completed in 29.82 and 32.36 days of male and female, respectively and the mean fecundity of this pest was recorded as 36.36 eggs per female. Moreover to this, the larval period is about 11 to 16 days, hence one can consider it as a weak point of the pest and control measures can be taken during this period.','-','R.M. Patel, H.C. Patel, D.B. Sisodiya and R.K. Thumar (2023). Biology of Spotted Pod Borer, Maruca vitrata (Fabricius) (Lepidoptera: Crambidae) on Cowpea, Vigna unguiculata (L.) under Laboratory condition. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 15(2): 574-579.'),(6148,'149','Combination of Cinnamomum verum Bark Extract and Antibiotics: Potent Antimicrobial Activity','Mitu Patel, Piyush Vyas, Jigar Patel and Poyam Patel','Combination of Cinnamomum verum Bark Extract and Antibiotics Potent Antimicrobial Activity-Mitu Patel-91.pdf','',1,'Antimicrobial substances derived from plants are not capable alone to fight completely against microorganisms due to several limitations in context resistant developed by the microbe. Continuous research has identified that antimicrobial substances derived from plants have been discovered to be synergistic enhancers, meaning that even while they may have fewer antibacterial activities when taken alone, but on combining with conventional medications, they increase the drug\'s efficacy. Antibiotics and plant extracts work together synergistically to combat resistant infections, opening up new options for the treatment of infectious disorders. Using the Agar well diffusion method, the synergistic interaction between plant extracts and antibacterial drugs was evaluated. According to the study\'s findings, there is a higher level of activity when Cinnamomum verum plant extracts are combined with antimicrobial compounds under examination. The findings of this study suggest that combining plant extract with antibiotics may be effective in battling newly developed drug-resistant microbes. The combination of the extract and the antibiotics did not result in the formation of any new compounds, according to HPTLC data.','Cinnamomum verum, Plant Extract, Antibiotics, Antimicrobial, HPTLC','Effective antimicrobial activity against microorganisms has been demonstrated by plant extract. It can be used to enhance the antimicrobial activity of antibiotics and so as well we can reduce side effect of antibiotics by decreasing their concentrations.','-','Mitu Patel, Piyush Vyas, Jigar Patel and Poyam Patel (2023). Combination of Cinnamomum verum Bark Extract and Antibiotics: Potent Antimicrobial Activity. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 15(2): 580-585.'),(6149,'149','Development of Carrot – Ginger Whey Beverage','V. Ignatia Malarmary, V. Nithyalakshmi, P. Selvan and M. Esther Magdalene Sharon','Development of Carrot – Ginger Whey Beverage-V. Ignatia Malarmary-92.pdf','',1,'The current investigation was carried out for the standardization of carrot extract, ginger oleoresin and whey protein concentrate (WPC) for the development of functional beverage. Different formulations of ginger oleoresin, carrot extract and WPC were evaluated based on sensory scores. Eight different combinations of ginger oleoresin were incorporated into the carrot extract and WPC solution, considering ginger oleoresin as a flavour-enhancing ingredient for the beverage. The major constraint of the study was the homogenisation of the ginger oleoresin uniformly despite its characteristic. The concentration of ginger oleoresin used were 0.25%, 0.5%, 1%, 1.25%, 1.5%, 1.75%, and 2% in carrot extract incorporated with 50% of WPC solution and control was fixed as a beverage without the addition of ginger oleoresin. The beverage was standardised based on sensory scores. The colour, taste, flavour, appearance and overall acceptability of the beverage were analysed on the 9-point hedonic scale by the 15 semi-trained panel members. The proximate and physiochemical analysis such as TSS, protein, fat, acidity, pH, ash content, moisture content, etc were determined by standard procedure. The data obtained from the sensory evaluation, physiochemical and proximate analysis were computed and analysed statistically. Among the various combinations 1% ginger oleoresin in carrot extract incorporated with 50% of the WPC solution showed the highest overall acceptability based on the sensory scores. The pH, TSS, acidity, specific gravity, ash content, moisture content, carotenoid and gingerol content was estimated for the optimized sample by statistical methods and inferred for the characteristic properties of the carrot- ginger whey beverage. Carrot – ginger-based whey beverage could be an ideal functional beverage besides being delicious and refreshing it is highly nutritious and could be recommended for large-scale production in industries as a functional beverage.','Carrot, Ginger oleoresin, Whey protein concentrate, functional beverage, beverage standardisation','Development and standardisation of functional beverage by using carrot extract, ginger oleoresin and whey protein concentrate was the objective of this study. The beverage prepared from various combinations were assessed by sensory analysis and the standardised combination was determined as WT4. The pH, acidity, viscosity, moisture content, gingerol and carotenoid content etc, were evaluated for the qualitative and quantitative evaluation of the beverage. The results were in accordance with the researches earlier conducted for similar type of beverage preparations. The resultant carrot – ginger whey beverage was found to be a better alternative as a healthy functional beverage when compared to the beverage prepared with the same raw materials individually. Henceforth this study confirms the fact that carrot ginger whey beverage can be healthy alternative among the various other functional beverages. Carrot – ginger-based whey beverage could be an ideal functional beverage besides being delicious and refreshing it is highly nutritious and could be recommended for large-scale production in industries as a functional beverage.','-','V. Ignatia Malarmary, V. Nithyalakshmi, P. Selvan and M. Esther Magdalene Sharon (2023). Development of Carrot – Ginger Whey Beverage. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 15(2): 586-592.'),(6150,'149','Correlation and Path Analysis in Garlic Genotypes under North-Eastern Dry Zone of Karnataka','Siddarth S.S., Ashok H., A.R. Kurubar, K.N. Kattimani, Yenjerappa S.T., Nidoni U. and J.M. Nidagundi','Correlation-and-Path-Analysis-in-Garlic-Genotypes-under-North-Eastern-Dry-Zone-of-Karnataka-Siddarth-SS-93.pdf','',1,'In order to determine correlation and path co-efficient analysis during rabi season, a study on correlation and path analysis in garlic genotypes under the North-Eastern dry zone of Karnataka was conducted at the Horticulture Department, College of Agriculture, UAS, Raichur with twenty eight garlic genotypes and three replications. Sprouting percentage, plant height, number of leaves, leaf length, leaf width, neck thickness, fresh weight of plant, dry weight of plant, days to maturity, bulb weight, bulb diameter, bulb length, clove length, clove diameter and hundred clove weight had positive and significant association with total yield per hectare indicating that an intense selection for these traits could improve the bulb yield. Path co-efficient analysis showed highest and positive direct effect on dry weight of plant followed by average bulb weight, clove weight, leaf length, bulb length and neck thickness selection based on these traits will be effective for any breeding programme. ','Correlation, path analysis, garlic, genotypes','According to a correlation study, there is a strong inherent relationship between various traits because genotypic correlation coefficients were shown to be higher in magnitude than phenotypic correlation coefficients. There was a positive and significant correlation between yield per hectare and sprouting percentage, plant height, number of leaves, leaf length, leaf width, neck thickness, fresh weight of the plant, dry weight of the plant, days to maturity, bulb weight, bulb diameter, bulb length, clove length, clove diameter, and hundred clove weight, indicating that these traits could be intensely selected for to increase the bulb yield. Path co-efficient analysis showed, dry weight of the plant was the trait with the highest and positive direct effect, followed by average bulb weight, clove weight, leaf length, bulb length, and neck thickness. Breeding programmes will be successful if they base their selection on these qualities. The traits with the most direct negative effects on plant fresh weight, dry matter content, days to maturity, clove length, bulb diameter, and plant height suggest that indirect selection for these traits might be advantageous for increasing yield.','-','Siddarth S.S., Ashok H., A.R. Kurubar, K.N. Kattimani, Yenjerappa S.T., Nidoni U. and J.M. Nidagundi (2023). Correlation and Path Analysis in Garlic Genotypes under North-Eastern Dry Zone of Karnataka. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 15(2): 593-597.'),(6151,'149','Colouring Silk Fabric with Cashew Nut Peel Dye in Combination with Selected Mordants','Tusharbala Sahoo and Nibedita Mishra ','Colouring Silk Fabric with Cashew Nut Peel Dye in Combination with Selected Mordants-Tusharbala Sahoo-94.pdf','',1,'Different food processing wastes, if used for extraction of dyeing materials, can not only reduce the food processing plant effluents, but also can add to the economics of food processing. Cashew nut peel is one such food processing waste, which can be used as natural dyes. It is important to standardize the dyeing parameters and mordants for its use in dyeing applications. Thus, an attempt was made to determine the colour intensity and fastness of silk fabric treated with five mordants at different concentrations and then dyed with colour extracted from cashew nut peel. The different mordants used were copper sulphate (CuSO4), aluminum sulphate (Al2(SO4)3), ferrous sulphate (FeSO4), citric acid (C6H8O7) and alum (K2SO4, Al2(SO4)3, 24H2O). The levels of concentrations were taken as 1, 3 and 5%. It was observed that the final shades of colours varied with the different mordants and concentrations thereof. The light fastness of the dyed fabric was achieved up to fairly good level for the CuSO4, FeSO4 and alum at 1-5% levels. Excepting the alum at 1 and 3% levels, all other mordants and levels gave good to excellent ratings for washing fastness test I. The CuSO4, Al2(SO4)3 and FeSO4 at 3% and 5% levels gave good to excellent ratings for washing fastness test II. The dry rubbing and wet rubbing conditions were also excellent for all mordanted samples at all levels. The changes in the pore sizes due to the mordanting and dyeing treatments were also studied. In view of the colour fastness, the CuSO4 and FeSO4 mordants at 3% and 5% levels are recommended for application of cashew nut peel dye on silk. ','Mordanting, dyeing, colour fastness, wash fastness, microstructure, absorbance','Based on the above study, it can be concluded that the cashew nut peel can be used as a dyeing material for the silk with the application of different mordants and the final colours will depend on the different types of mordants and their concentrations. The maximum change in colour (ΔE) was for the FeSO4 mordant at 5%, however it was not significantly different from the 3% level of the same mordant. The minimum change in colour was for alum and citric acid mordanted samples. The light fastness of the dyed fabric was achieved up to fairly good level for the CuSO4, FeSO4 and alum at 1-5% levels. Excepting the alum at 1 and 3% levels, all other mordants and levels gave good to excellent ratings for washing fastness test I. The CuSO4, Al2(SO4)3 and FeSO4 at 3% and 5% levels gave good to excellent ratings for washing fastness test II. The dry rubbing and wet rubbing conditions were excellent for all mordanted samples at all levels. In view of the above, the CuSO4, FeSO4 mordants at 3% and 5% levels are recommended for application of cashew nut peel dye on silk. ','-','Tusharbala Sahoo and Nibedita Mishra (2023). Colouring Silk Fabric with Cashew Nut Peel Dye in Combination with Selected Mordants. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 15(2): 598-605.'),(6152,'149','Analysis of the Curcumin Content of various Turmeric Genotypes (Curcuma longa L.)','Poonam, Manisha Verma, Om Prakash Kumawat, I.B. Maurya and Subhita Kumawat ','Analysis of the Curcumin Content of various Turmeric Genotypes (Curcuma longa L.)-Poonam-95.pdf','',1,'One of the most essential ingredients in Indian and Chinese cooking is turmeric. Turmeric contains a significant amount of curcumin. Curcumin is highly sought after and has a high market potential or high price, because to its numerous medical, biological and pharmacological uses. The goal of the current experiment was to assess the curcumin content of several turmeric genotypes. According to the study\'s findings, JWRH-7 and GNT-1 have a larger percentage of curcumin than the other turmeric genotypes. The quantity of curcumin in turmeric determines its quality and, consequently, its potency. The results show that the content of curcumin varies geographically and is influenced by factors including soil, environment, and climatic conditions.','Turmeric, Curcumin, Spectrophotometer, Geographical variation','Due to variations in local environmental conditions, curcumin quantity and quality fluctuates. Thus, it is crucial that these plants be cultivated and carefully planted on a wide scale in order to improve the quality of turmeric. More investigation can be done to establish the requirement to grow high quality curcumin, which has numerous therapeutic characteristics, based on the proportion of curcumin present in turmeric and its capacity to prevent many diseases.','-','Poonam, Manisha Verma, Om Prakash Kumawat, I.B. Maurya and Subhita Kumawat (2023). Analysis of the Curcumin Content of various Turmeric Genotypes (Curcuma longa L.). Biological Forum – An International Journal, 15(2): 606-608.'),(6153,'149','Influence of different Freezing and Thawing condition on Texture, Colour and Sensory Parameters of Osmo-convectively Dehydrated Carrot Slices','T.D. Kumavat, P.G. More and S.B. Jadhav','Influence of different Freezing and Thawing condition on Texture, Colour and Sensory Parameters of Osmo-convectively Dehydrated Carrot Slices-T.D. Kumavat-96.pdf','',1,'Carrot (Daucus carota L.) is very popular root crop, cultivated throughout the world. Being rich in bioactive compounds like carotenoids and other nutrients, carrot has an important place in human diet. Pre-treatment prior to processing helps to prevent the loss in nutritional, sensorial, textural and functional properties of dehydrated fruits and vegetable. Texture, colour and sensory parameter play an important role in consumer acceptance of dehydrated ready to eat products. In most of the earlier studies, carrot was osmo-dehydrated without freezing pretreatment and dried products were used after rehydration. During freeze thaw pretreatment, temperature and time of freezing and thawing plays an important role in final quality of osmo-dehydrated products. Considering the influence of freeze-thaw treatment on texture and colour of osmo-dehydrated product, the present investigation was carried out to assess the effect of freezing and thawing time on objectives and subjective evaluation of colour and texture osmo-convectively dehydrated carrot slices and also on overall acceptability of products. Blanched carrot slices were frozen -25 oC freezing temperature for 12 and 24 h duration. Thawing of frozen carrot slices was carried out at low and ambient temperature condition for 2 and 8 h duration. The effect of freezing and thawing duration on texture and colour of dried carrot slices were objectively evaluated in terms of hardness and L*, a*, b* value of colour. Also, subjective evaluation was carried out by using 9-point scale to assess the overall acceptability of osmo-convectively dehydrated carrot slices. It was found that hardness of osmo-convectively dehydrated carrot slices influenced by freezing and thawing time for both thawing condition. Subjective and objective evaluation of osmo-convectively dehydrated carrot slices showed higher the retention of colour in pre-frozen osmo-convectively dried carrot slices for 24 hours irrespective of thawing duration. Also non-significant difference was observed in hardness and colour values for 12 and 24 h freezing time. Osmo-convectively dehydrated carrot slices prepared by using 12 hours freezing time and 8 h thawing at low temperature condition obtained higher overall acceptance. ','Freezing, Osmotic dehydration, Colour, Hardness, Overall acceptability','Hardness and colour of osmo-convectively dehydrated carrot slices was decreased with increased with increasing freezing and thawing time for both low and ambient thawing condition. According to subjective and objective evaluation, osmo-convectively dehydrated carrot slices prepared with 12 hours freezing and 8 h thawing time at low temperature condition obtained higher overall acceptance.','-','T.D. Kumavat, P.G. More and S.B. Jadhav (2023). Influence of Different Freezing and Thawing condition on Texture, Colour and Sensory Parameters of osmo-convectively Dehydrated Carrot Slices. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 15(2): 609-613.'),(6154,'149','Varietal Performance of Guava under Meadow System of Ultra High Density Planting',' Ramniwas, R.A. Kaushik, D.K. Sarolia, K.L. Kumawat, Mukesh Kumar and R.K. Jat ','97 Varietal Performance of Guava under Meadow System of Ultra High Density Planting-4436-Mukesh Kumar-97.pdf','',1,'High density planting in guava is gaining popularity among Indian guava growers due to its highly remunerative nature. However, the return from high density guava orchards is genotype and environment dependent. Therefore, to find out potential guava varieties suitable for ultra high density for commercial cultivation in Southern Rajasthan, a field experiment was conducted to evaluate the performance of different varieties viz., Allahabad Safeda, Red Fleshed, Sardar (L-49), Pant Prabhat, Lalit, and Shweta with relation to growth, flowering, physiological, yield and qualitative attributes in a meadow orchard system. The results revealed that the var. Shweta recorded significantly higher canopy volume, plant spread (E-W direction) and girth of primary branches, while maximum plant height and leaf area were recorded in cv. L-49 and Lalit, respectively. Shweta also recorded maximum fruit diameter, fruit retention, fruit weight, carbon assimilation rate and total chlorophyll content, similarly cv. Lalit recorded the maximum number of flowers per shoot, per cent fruit set, number of fruits, yield per plant and estimated yield per ha. It is concluded that the varieties Lalit, Shweta and L-49 performed better in meadow orcharding system and could be recommended for maximizing land use and enhancing productivity. ','Guava varieties, Growth, Yield, Quality, Meadow orcharding','Guava cultivars, Lalit, Shweta and L-49 performed better in the ultra high density system of planting under Southern Rajasthan conditions in comparison to other tested cultivars. Shweta produced superior quality fruits with the second-highest fruit yield, whereas Lalit produced the highest fruit yield. Furthermore, based on the physiological indicators, Shweta seems to be more resilient to climate change. L-49 is still a preferred cultivar of guava among consumers and it also produces economically viable fruit yield next to Lalit and Shweta. ','-','Ramniwas, R.A. Kaushik, D.K. Sarolia, K.L. Kumawat, Mukesh Kumar and R.K. Jat (2023). Varietal Performance of Guava under Meadow System of Ultra High Density Planting. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 15(2): 614-618.'),(6155,'149','Occurrence of Goniocotes gallinae (De Geer, 1778) (Phthiraptera: Insecta) on Gallus sonneratti Temminck, 1813, Grey Jungle Fowl Bird (Galliformes: Phasianidae) as New Host Record from India','Aftab Ahmad and Gaurav Sharma','Occurrence of Goniocotes gallinae (De Geer, 1778) (Phthiraptera Insecta) on Gallus sonneratti Temminck, 1813, Grey Jungle Fowl Bird (Galliformes Phasianidae) as New Host Record from India-Aftab Ahmad-98.pdf','',1,'Gallus sonneratti Temminck, 1813, Grey jungle fowl bird (Galliformes: Phasianida) is known to harbour four phthirapteran species of lice (two amblyceran louse, Menacanthus pallidulus, Neumann, 1912; Menopon gallinae Linnaeus, 1758 and two ischnoceran louse, Goniodes dissimilis Denny, 1842; Lipeurus caponis Linnaeus, 1758). During the present studies another ischnoceran louse, Goniocotes gallinae (De Geer, 1778) was recorded as new host record on G. sonneratti Temminck, 1813, Grey jungle fowl bird from India.','Goniocotes gallinae, Lice, New host record, Phthiraptera, Gallus sonneratti, India','In the present investigation, an attempt was made to provide information on the presence of Goniocotes gallinae (De Geer, 1778) on Gallus sonneratti Temminck, 1813, Grey jungle fowl bird along with a description using scanning electron microscopy. The presence of Goniocotes gallinae (De Geer, 1778) on Gallus sonneratti, Temminck, 1813, Grey jungle fowl bird is reported for the first time as new host record from India.','-','Aftab Ahmad and Gaurav Sharma (2023). Occurrence of Goniocotes gallinae (De Geer, 1778) (Phthiraptera: Insecta) on Gallus sonneratti Temminck, 1813, Grey Jungle Fowl Bird (Galliformes: Phasianidae) as New Host Record from India. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 15(2): 619-622.'),(6156,'149','Infraspecific variations and Molecular characterization by using ISSR Markers in Curcuma Species','Mangesh Dagawal and Prabha Bhogaonkar','Infraspecific variations and Molecular characterization by using ISSR Markers in Curcuma Species-Mangesh Dagawal-99.pdf','',1,'The genus Curcuma is one of the largest genera in the family Zingiberaceae comprising 120 species. Forty species are recorded from India, 8 species from Maharashtra and 4 species of Curcuma are reported from Melghat Forests Dist Amravati. Of these, Curcuma inodora Blatt., Curcuma pseudomontana J. Graham and Curcuma decipiens Dalzell are wild, while Curcuma longa L. is cultivated. C. inodora is widely distributed throughout Maharashtra and is very common in the Melghat Forests. Population of C. inodora display tremendous variations in aerial and underground parts. Major variations found are shape of root tubers, length of leaf stalk, position of spike, length of spike, shape, size and colour of bracts. Infraspecific variations are recently attracting attention of taxonomists. Creation of infraspecific variations is the main origin and storage of speciation and genetic divergence among populations of a species. Twelve variants of C. inodora and one accession each of C. longa and C. pseudomontana were collected for the present study. C. decipiens very rare could not be collected.\r\nGenetic fingerprints of Curcuma longa, Curcuma pseudomontana and twelve variants of Curcuma inodora were developed using ISSR marker for genetic diversity analysis and relatedness among the species and within the species. Five Inter simple sequence repeat primers produced 305 bands out of which 299 were polymorphic bands. Dendrogram was constructed using MEGA software based on UPGMA. Cluster analysis on the basis of dendrogram placed 12 variants of Curcuma inodora and two species in two clusters and twelve variants of one cluster subdivided into four subcluster, indicating the relatedness and also the genetic distance pointing out clear polymorphism within the species.\r\n','Infraspecific variations; MEGA; Inter Simple Sequence Repeat; Cluster analysis; Curcuma longa L; Curcuma inodora Blatt.; Curcuma pseudomontana J. Graham','ISSR Primers produced almost 100% polymorphism attributing to genetic variability. Varied ecological niches and geographical conditions are expected to produce variations. However, the populations of C. inodora studied here grow in the same geographical and ecological niche, and still show great variations not only at morphological (Dagawal and Bhogaonkar 2019) but also at molecular level. This indicates the adaptive and evolutionary potential of C. inodora species. ','-','Mangesh Dagawal and Prabha Bhogaonkar (2023). Infraspecific variations and Molecular characterization by using ISSR Markers in Curcuma Species. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 15(2): 623-630.'),(6157,'149','Comparative Study of per se Performance in Sesame (Sesamum indicum L.)','Suchitra, R.B. Madariya, Gharsiram and Surender Kumar','Comparative Study of per se Performance in Sesame (Sesamum indicum L.)-Suchitra-100.pdf','',1,'In present investigation the experimental materials consisted of parents and their 45 F1’s and 45 F2’s derived by crossing 10 diverse sesame genotypes (GT-3, GT-4, GT-6, AT-338, AT-324, IC-132186, GT-10, T-11, GJT-5 and GTF-1) in a half-diallel fashion, were evaluated during Kharif 2022 at Main Oilseeds Research Station, Junagadh Agricultural University, Junagadh. The parents recorded with highest seed yield per plant were AT-324 (6.45), GJT-5 (6.23) and AT-338 (5.77). Similarly, top five cross combinations for seed yield per plant were AT-338 × AT-324 (11.54), GT-6 × GT-10 (10.22), GT-3 × GT-4 (8.47), GT-4 × T-11 (7.28) and GT-4 × IC-132186 (6.99).','Sesame, half-diallel, combining ability and heterosis','Among parents GT-4, AT-324, GT-3 and AT-338 offer the best possibilities of exploitation for the development of improved pure lines with enhanced seed yielding ability as being recorded with high per se along with high gca effect for most of the traits. Three cross combinations AT-338 × AT-324 (P4 × P5), GT-6 × GT-10 (P3 × P7) and GT-3 × GT-4 (P1 × P2) performed consistently in F1 generation for high per se performance, significant sca effects along with high heterobeltiosis and standard heterosis. These parents and cross could be utilized further in multiple crossing programme or hybrids could be further evaluated to be released as variety.','-','Suchitra, R.B. Madariya, Gharsiram and Surender Kumar (2023). Comparative Study of per se Performance in Sesame (Sesamum indicum L.). Biological Forum – An International Journal, 15(2): 631-638.'),(6158,'149','Assessment of Genetic Variability Parameters in Pearl Millet [Pennisetum glaucum (L). R. Br.] Hybrids','Ravina Beniwal, P.C. Gupta, A.K. Sharma, O.P. Parihar, Bhagyashree Phogat and Navreet Kaur Rai','Assessment of Genetic Variability Parameters in Pearl Millet [Pennisetum glaucum (L). R. Br.] Hybrids-Ravina Beniwal-101.pdf','',1,'The 63 hybrids pearl millet (Pennisetum glaucum L.) were evaluated for ten quantitative characters for screening the genetic variability. These hybrids were evaluated in RBD during kharif 2019 conducted at Research Farm of SKRAU, Bikaner Rajasthan Analysis of variance obtained prominent differences among the hybrid varieties for all that characters except days to maturity indicating presence of good variability amount in the hybrids of pearl millet used in the study. As usual the PCV values were found more than GCV values for all traits which indicated positive effect of environment on the characters expression. Biological produce per plant and seed produce per plant had improved estimate of GCV and PCV. Biological produce per plant and seed produce per plant had high estimate heritability along with genetic advance as per cent of mean.','Hybrids, variability parameters, quantitative traits, Pearl millet','Based on the research findings, it can be conclude that the study shows significant variability among pearl millet hybrids for most traits, except for days to maturity. Replications were non-significant, indicating good homogeneity among replications. The PCV values were higher than the GCV values for all traits, indicating a positive effect of the environment on their expression. The highest GCV values were observed for biological and seed produce per plant, while the highest PCV values were recorded for no. of effective tillers, harvest index, biological produce per plant, and seed produce per plant. Heritability was generally high for ear head length, ear head diameter, harvest index, biological production per plant, and seed produce per plant. Genetic advance was highest for biological produce per plant and lowest for days to 50 percent flowering and days to maturity. The results suggest good variability in pearl millet traits, indicating the potential for selection and breeding programs to improve yield and quality.','-','Ravina Beniwal, P.C. Gupta, A.K. Sharma, O.P. Parihar, Bhagyashree Phogat and Navreet Kaur Rai (2023). Assessment of Genetic Variability Parameters in Pearl Millet [Pennisetum glaucum (L). R. Br.] Hybrids. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 15(2): 639-642.'),(6159,'149','Plant Metabolites- A Brief Review on Natural Approach to Combat Plant Pathogenic Infections','Fatima Siddiqua, Sushmita Paul and Kumananda Tayung','102 Plant Metabolites- A Brief Review on Natural Approach to Combat Plant Pathogenic Infections-Fatima Siddiqua-102.pdf','',1,'The productivity of agricultural crops is severely affected by various plant pathogens, among which bacteria and fungi are causing the major crop destructions. The crop damage caused by these plant pathogens are causing major threats to global food production and turns out to be a worldwide problem. Commercial pesticides used to control these plant pathogens are causing detrimental effects on human health and environment. Therefore, scientists are approaching a safe and environment friendly method to combat this crisis where plant metabolites are used as bio-pesticides. Various investigations on plant metabolites and its potential in eradicating plant pathogens, makes it the most effective alternative solution to chemical pesticides. But such works are not compiled systematically to gather knowledge about their affectivity and mode of use for further investigation. So, in this article, some lists are compiled for plant metabolites that were used as effective bio-pesticides in controlling several infectious plant diseases caused by bacteria and fungi. ','Metabolites, Synthetic, Resistance, Biodegradation, Toxicity, Pollutants','As there are several concerns over excessive use of synthetic pesticides and their polluting nature that causes soil pollution impacting our human health to a great extend. Therefore, there is an urgent need to initiate more studies on finding plant alternatives for the synthetic pesticides. From the above observation, it was clear that many plants are effectively controlling the growth of various prevalent plant pathogens. Our nature is full of medicinal plants which are surrounded by numerous potent plants that are capable of giving promising results. These plants can be used against plant pathogens and thus, it can reduce the toxic effects of synthetic pesticides and can preserve our natural ecosystem from biodegradation as the plant derived products like essential oil, plant crude extracts have low mammalian toxicity, less adverse environmental effects and wide public acceptance.','-','Fatima Siddiqua, Sushmita Paul and Kumananda Tayung (2023). Plant Metabolites- A Brief Review on Natural Approach to Combat Plant Pathogenic Infections. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 15(2): 643-650.'),(6160,'149','Opinion on Adoption and Effectiveness of Information and Communication Technologies in Crop Production','Sagar S. Pujar, Amaresh Kumar K., Sahana S., D. Shashikalabai and Sai Tejashree G.','Opinion on Adoption and Effectiveness of Information and Communication Technologies in Crop Production Sagar S Pujar-102.pdf','',1,'The study was conducted in the year 2017-18 in Shivamogga and Chikkamagaluru district of Karnataka state with a sample size of 120 farmers. Simple random sampling procedure was used to select the sample. The data was collected with the help of structured interview schedule. It was found that majority (86.67 %) of farmers were aware first-time information about transplanting tree along the roots, followed by 81.67 per cent of the farmers inferred growing different shapes of fruits, Groundnut shell decorticator by cycle wheel (80.83%), weeding by bikes (74.17%) and Egg grading machine by (70.83%) respectively. Followed by Chopping the fodder by bike (58.33%) and Snake repellent stick (21.66%) was perceived by farmers as first-time information received from the different ICT tools. Further, 80.00 per cent of ICT tool user farmer inferred that they had adopted technology on paddy transplanter. The reason was that, the study was conducted in malanad and hilly regions where most of the farmers were cultivated paddy as major crop. Hence, the farmers had adopted paddy transplanter technology, followed by 70.00 per cent of the farmers inferred they had adopted technology on Rain water harvesting techniques. Majority 66.60 per cent of the What’s app users said that the information on production aspect was effective. 51.70 per cent of the KCC tool users opined that these two tools were less effective regarding quality inputs aspects.','Adoption, Effectiveness and ICT tools, Communication Technologies','Technological upgradation and acceptance of those updated and improved production techniques are crucial steps in the development process of every agrarian economy (Gursteinm 2003; Murty and Abhinov 2012). This is especially true for agricultural development in countries like India, where crop output has increasing largely over many years due to a multiplicity of factors including adoption and use of improved production methods. To make improvements in the agricultural sector, extension activities for the transfer of agricultural technologies from lab to land is inevitable (Narula and Arora 2010; Mohammad and Md 2011; Pujar et al., 2021). This results into the technology transfer model of agricultural extension, seen by many as the main purpose of agricultural extension. This is based on the premise that “modern” knowledge or technology is transferred via extension agents to recipient farmers. Thus, agricultural extension is the sensible communication of information to help farmers form sound opinions and make good decisions for sustainable farming.','-','Sagar S. Pujar, Amaresh Kumar K., Sahana S., D. Shashikalabai and Sai Tejashree G. (2023). Opinion on Adoption and Effectiveness of Information and Communication Technologies in Crop Production. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 15(2): 651-655.'),(6161,'149','Crinum latifolium: An Updated Review on its Pharmacognosy, Phytochemistry and Pharmacological Profile','Anju Goyal, Manish Devgun, Lalita Dahiya, Sachin Bisyan, Gajender Saini \r\nand Dimple Kumar\r\n','Crinum latifolium An Updated Review on its Pharmacognosy, Phytochemistry and Pharmacological Profile-Sachin Bisyan-104.pdf','',1,'Amaryllidaceae family member Crinum latifolium Linn. is extensively spread throughout the world in the tropics, subtropics, and warm temperate regions. The various parts of the plants are rich in bioactive compounds, which are used to cure a wide range of illnesses, including rheumatism, fistula, tumors, earaches, rubefacient, tubercle, and whitlow. The article highlights the various chemical constituents found in the plant, including alkaloids, flavonoids, terpenoids, and phenolic compounds. Additionally, the review delves into the numerous pharmacological activities associated with Crinum latifolium, such as antitumor, anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, and anti-diabetic activities. A variety of treatises, reference materials, and databases, including Google Scholar, Scopus, PubMed, Science Direct, Web of Science, etc., were used to compile all the information on this plant. The contributions of such a study can help to establish the medicinal uses, active components, and safety profile of the plant, which can lead to the development of new drugs or lead compounds.','Crinum latifolium, Sudarshan, Pharmacological activities, Phytochemistry, Pharmacognosy','It can be inferred from the facts presented above and compiled in this review that the plant C. latifolium has a wealth of therapeutic characteristics and is also employed in folk medicine, as described in numerous literature studies. These days, individuals are drawn in toward the plant-based drugs because of their less harmfulness and less expensive costs. The antioxidant, antibacterial, anti-diabetic, anti-cancer, and anti-inflammatory properties of C. latifolium have been demonstrated. The chemical components of C. latifolium are helpful in the creation of herbal medicines and may be used to treat a variety of clinical disorders.','-','Anju Goyal, Manish Devgun, Lalita Dahiya, Sachin Bisyan, Gajender Saini and Dimple Kumar (2023). Crinum latifolium: An Updated Review on its Pharmacognosy, Phytochemistry and Pharmacological Profile. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 15(2): 656-664.'),(6162,'149','In-vitro Phosphorylation of Recombinant Human Tim23 and its Fragments: Post Translational Modification','Chandra Shekhar Anugula, Mir Zahoor Gul and Karuna Rupula','In-vitro-Phosphorylation-of-Recombinant-Human-Tim23-and-its-Fragments-Post-Translational-Modification-Karuna-Rupula-105.pdf','',1,'The present study aimed to investigate the post-translational modification of recombinant human Tim23 and its fragments. Recombinant human TIM23 fragments were cloned into the pET28a vector and analyzed by agarose gel electrophoresis. Overexpression of the proteins and their fragments was achieved in BL21DE3 cells followed by affinity purification and validated by SDS-PAGE. In-vitro phosphorylation of the purified proteins was carried out using mitochondrial extract as a kinase source. A specific band corresponding to recombinant human Tim23 after phosphorylation followed by immunoblotting confirmed the phosphorylation of human Tim23. Molecular cloning of human TIM23 was confirmed by the detection of specific bands (gene sizes: 219 bp, 288 bp, 435 bp, and 582 bp) on an agarose gel. Overexpression, purification, and phosphorylation were confirmed by single discrete bands (fragment 2: ~12 kDa, fragment 3: ~18 kDa, and fragment 4: ~22 kDa) on SDS-PAGE. The study highlights the use of indigenously designed primers in the amplification, of Tim23. Further, in the phosphorylation studies, rat liver mitochondrial extract was used as kinase source and Tim23 proteoliposomes were employed to mimic the membrane environment. Overall, the present investigation reports the phosphorylation of Tim23 protein and its fragments under in vitro conditions which may influence the protein transport mechanism and add to the literature on mitochondrial biogenesis.','Mitochondria, Recombinant protein, Cloning, Phosphorylation, Tim23, Anti rhuman Tim23','The Autoradiography studies using radiolabelled (γ32P) ATP showed the phosphorylation of full-length human Tim23 and confirmed by western blotting. The amplification of these fragments was evaluated on electrophoresis containing agarose gel (1%). Following digestion (double) with restriction enzymes and agarose gel (1%) electrophoresis revealed the particular insertions of the TIM23 fragments that had been cloned and inserted into the bacterial pET28a vector. Tim23 fragments (f2, f3, and f4) were induced and over expressed in BL21 (DE3) cells by IPTG. The over-expression of proteins was evaluated on SDS-PAGE. The presence of a single distinct band indicated that the r human Tim23 fragments have been purified using affinity chromatography (Ni-NTA), and this has been validated using sodium dodecyl sulphate polyacrylamide gel electrophoresis. The in-vitro phosphorylation of recombinant human Tim23 fragments, as well as the full length of the protein, was shown by autoradiography and verified by immunoblotting using an antibody specific to Tim23. Overall, the present study reports the in-vitro phosphorylation of full-length human Tim23 and its fragments.','-','Chandra Shekhar Anugula, Mir Zahoor Gul and Karuna Rupula (2023). In-vitro Phosphorylation of Recombinant Human Tim23 and its Fragments: Post Translational Modification. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 15(2): 665-675.'),(6163,'149','Association Studies for Grain Yield and Yield Related Traits in Maize','Vinay Rojaria, Ajay Kumar, Subhash Bijarnia, Pulak Debbarma and Ashutosh Kumar','Association-Studies-for-Grain-Yield-and-Yield-Related-Traits-in-Maize-Vinay-Rojaria-106.pdf','',1,'Better grain yield is ultimate objective of any crop improvement scheme. However, yield being a complex trait under polygenic control, it become imperative to decipher the contribution of component traits towards yield and then devising a selection strategy. To understand association of component traits with yield, eight inbreds and their twenty-eight hybrids were evaluated for correlation and path coefficient analysis. Eight inbreds were subjected to half diallel mating design. Crosses were made during Kharif-19 and hybrids were analysed during Rabi - 2019-20 at Maize farm at TCA Dholi in randomized block design with three replications. Twelve traits were selected for present study. The analysis of variance showed ample amount of genetic variability among genotypes for all the characters under study. Correlation coefficient studies indicated that eight traits viz., chlorophyll content (r = 0.5119), cob length (r = 0.6673), cob girth (r = 0.1904), number of kernel rows/ear (r = 0.5991), number of kernels/row (r = 0.7495) and 1000 grain weight (r = 0.4693) had positive significant association with grain yield. From path coefficient analysis studies, it became clear that traits viz., days to 50 % tasseling, ear height, number of kernels/row, days to 75 % brown husk, chlorophyll content had positive direct effect on grain yield. This study identifies chlorophyll content, number of kernel rows/ear and number of kernels/row as major yield contributing traits to improve yield effectively.','Character association, Correlation, Path coefficient, Grain yield','Positive and significant association of grain yield with component traits makes selection for higher yield easy and reliable. Significant association of chlorophyll content, cob length, cob girth, no. of kernel rows per cob, no. of kernels per row and 1000 grain weight revealed importance of these traits in order to improve yield effectively. Results from path analysis indicated that traits such as no. of kernels per row, cob length, cob girth, 1000 grain weight had direct effect on grain yield indicating the usefulness of these traits for direct selection.','-','Vinay Rojaria, Ajay Kumar, Subhash Bijarnia, Pulak Debbarma and Ashutosh Kumar (2023). Association Studies for Grain Yield and Yield Related Traits in Maize. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 15(2): 676-679.'),(6164,'149','Evaluation of different Insecticides against Leaf Roller, Pyrausta coclesalis Walker (Pyraustidae; Lepidoptera) In Bamboo','Mohan C., Ramkishore Mohabe, Rambhajan Singh, Neelu Singh and Fatima Shirin','Evaluation of different Insecticides against Leaf Roller, Pyrausta coclesalis Walker (Pyraustidae; Lepidoptera) In Bamboo-Mohan C-107.pdf','',1,'Studies were carried out during 2021-2022 to evaluate toxicity levels of different insecticides against larvae of bamboo leaf roller Pyrausta coclesalis (Pyraustidae: Lepidoptera) are one of the most important group of leaf feeders on bamboo (Family: Poaceae) in Central India. Spinosad 45 SC (0.03%), Profenofos 50 EC (0.04%), Cypermethrin 25 EC (0.03%), Fenvalerate 20 EC (0.03%), Chlorantraniliprole 18.5 SC (0.03%) and bio pesticide Azadiractin 10000 PPM (0.05%) at the recommended concentration was evaluated against of bamboo leaf roller at the Division of Forest Protection, Tropical Forest Research Institute, Jabalpur, Madhya Pradesh, India. The study revealed that Spinosad 45 SC (0.03%), Profenofos 50 EC (0.03%) and Cypermethrin 25 EC (0.03%) were effective with the maximum larval mortality of 91.66, 83.33 and 75 percent at 72 hours after treatment followed by Fenvalerate 20 EC (0.03%) and Chlorantraniliprole 18.5 SC (0.03%) which recorded similar mortality of 66.66 were at par to each other at the same period of observation. Among bio pesticide Azadiractin (0.05%) treatment recorded least larval mortality of leaf roller 58.33 percent at 72 hours after treatment. ','Bioassay, Insecticides molecules, Bamboo and Pyrausta coclesalis','The data on percent mortality after 72 hours of exposure showed that the chemical pesticide showed not only significant but superior results over control. Therefore it is suggested that the population of bamboo leaf roller larvae can be checked by spraying chemical insecticides viz., Spinosad 45 SC (0.03%), Profenofos 50 EC (0.03%) and Cypermethrin 25 EC (0.03%) are effective pesticides against bamboo leaf roller and can act as better tools in insect pest management for leaf roller menace in bamboo nursery and young plantations. ','-','Mohan C., Ramkishore Mohabe, Rambhajan Singh, Neelu Singh and Fatima Shirin (2023). Evaluation of different Insecticides against Leaf Roller, Pyrausta coclesalis Walker (Pyraustidae; Lepidoptera) In Bamboo. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 15(2): 680-682.'),(6165,'149','Anthoceros extract as Growth Promotor and Biochemical Stimulant in Okra Plants','Bindhu K.B., Gopika V.D. and Dhanya Thomas T.T.','Anthoceros-extract-as-Growth-Promotor-and-Biochemical-Stimulant-in-Okra-Plants-Bindhu-KB-108.pdf','',1,'Bryophytes are the amphibians of the plant kingdom. In fact, the work on the bryophyte as biofertilizer is less. They are seasonal also. In the present study the effect of Anthoceros extract on growth performance and biochemical properties of Abelmoschus esculentus was studied and its antimicrobial effect was also detected. For this study germination rate of the seeds of the bhindi plants were recorded at various concentrations of the Anthoceros extract like 20%, 40%, 60%, 80% and 100%. The one without any extract was regarded as control. The length of roots, shoots, length and width of leaf, etc were also examined in the concentrations 60%, 80% and 100%. In addition to this the biochemical analysis for detection of carbohydrates and protein was also performed. Antimicrobial activity against Staphylococcus aureus was detected. Of the various concentrations studied, the 60% showed maximum seed germination within minimum days as compared to the others, and the length of roots, shoots, length and width of leaf, etc. were also high in this concentration. The root length was 4.5cm, shoot length was 13.2 cm, leaf length was 3.3cm and leaf width was 3.1. In this concentration the highest value of protein and carbohydrate was also recorded. The control showed lowest rate of germination, root length, shoot length, leaf length and leaf width. The protein content and amount of carbohydrate also less in control. It shows the influence of Anthoceros extract in seed germination and growth of bhindi plant. The extract of Anthoceros showed antibacterial property towards Staphylococcus aureus. This may be due to its symbiotic association of blue green algae Anaebena. Through this study it was made clear that the Anthoceros like bryophytes are good source of biofertilizers with antibacterial potential, and we have to explore it. More studies has to be conducted to isolate the compounds present in Anthoceros and to find out the effects of these compounds.','Anthoceros, Biochemical analysis, Antimicrobial activity, symbiotic, germination','From this study it was clear that the extract of bryophyte especially Anthoceros sps is having very good effect on the seed germination and also for having good biochemical constitution. It is also showing good antimicrobial activity against Staphylococcus aureus. All these points out towards the need of conservation of the bryophytes and their utilization in various medicinal, biofertilizer aspects.\r\nIn short we can say that the biofertilizers like Anthoceros, or any other bryophytes are low cost and can be used by farmers, they have no side effects, can reduce pollution, thereby increases the soil fertility. The blue green algae inhabiting inside the bryophyte will secrete various growth promoting substances like vitamins, protein etc, there by improving the texture, pH and water holding capacity of the soil. The extract of the bryophytes speed up the plant growth and will provide quick results. So thay can be used in the coming days popularly as biofertilizers.\r\n','-','Bindhu K.B., Gopika V.D. and Dhanya Thomas T.T. (2023). Anthoceros extract as Growth Promotor and Biochemical Stimulant in Okra Plants. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 15(2): 683-688.'),(6166,'149','Utilization of 30 Cyanobacterial extracts for the Synthesis, Screening and Optimization of AuNPs: A Promising Approach for Green Chemistry','Shehzadi, Nida Asif, Nafe Aziz, Pooja Srivastava, Raj Kumar, Nadeem Ahmad and Tasneem Fatma','Utilization-of-30-Cyanobacterial-extracts-for-the-Synthesis,-Screening-and-Optimization-of-AuNPs-A-Promising-Approach-for-Green-Chemistry-Tasneem-Fatma-109.pdf','',1,'Gold nanoparticles (AuNPs) became a wide area of research, due to their unique chemical and physical features they are widely used in biological applications. The challenges of the study was to synthesized less toxic ecofriendly nonhazardous biocompatible nanoparticles. Considerable increasing demand of such AuNPs in different fields, especially in nanomedicines, there is an urgent need to maintain constant supply of top quality biogenic AuNPs. Material methods: 30 cyanobacterial extracts were screened for AuNPs synthesis based on the minimum reduction time and size of NPs. Best strain optimized with set controlled conditions of 1mM HAuCl4, 45 ml of extract volume, pH 6.5, and 60°C. And characterized by UV-Visible, FTIR and AFM characterized. Results: Purple to ruby red of reaction mixture is visual indication of AuNPs, further confirmed by UV–Vis spectroscopy and SEM, FTIR and AFM. During screening Phormidium sp. synthesized spherical smallest AuNPs (08-23 nm) within 35 minutes. Optimization resulted in reduction in size from 08-23 nm to 04-07 nm (SEM) and time 35 to 25 min.','Cyanobacteria, Gold nanoparticles (AuNPs); Screening, Optimization, FTIR, AFM','Through present study success was achieved in adding cyanobacteria as a novel source for biogenic AuNPs. All cell extracts (30 cyanobacteria) exhibited color change of reaction mixture from purple to ruby red indicating their potential AuNPs synthesis. Phormidium synthesized smallest 08-23 nm nanoparticles within 35 minutes and appeared as best the strain. Optimization of reaction condition for AuNPs synthesis resulted in reduction of size (08-23 nm to 04-07 nm) and time (35 min to 25 min), that were characterized by UV visible spectroscopy, FTIR and AFM analysis. ','-','Shehzadi, Nida Asif, Nafe Aziz, Pooja Srivastava, Raj Kumar, Nadeem Ahmad and Tasneem Fatma (2023). Utilization of 30 Cyanobacterial extracts for the Synthesis, Screening and Optimization of AuNPs: A Promising Approach for Green Chemistry. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 15(2): 689-697.'),(6167,'149','Effect of Irrigation Levels and Crop Geometry on Growth, Yield Parameters and Yield of Fennel (Foeniculum vulgare Mill.) Cultivar Grown under Drip System','Bharti Devi, S.R. Bhunia, Anita Saini and Rupesh Kumar Meena','Effect-of-Irrigation-Levels-and-Crop-Geometry-on-Growth,-Yield-Parameters-and-Yield-of-Fennel-(Foeniculum-vulgare-Mill.)-Cultivar-Grown-under-Drip-System-Bharti-Devi-110.pdf','',1,'A field experiment was conducted at the educational Farm, College of Agriculture, Swami Keshwanand Rajasthan Agricultural University, Bikaner in rabi season 2019-20 to study the effect of irrigation levels and crop geometry on growth and productivity on the cultivation of fennel (Foeniculum vulgare Mill.) cultivars grown under drip system. The results showed that irrigation at 1.0 PE gave maximum number of plant population (68762), plant height (118 cm), number of branches (primary branches 4.39, secondary branches 6.04), dry matter at harvest (30.30), number of umbels per plant (28.85), number of seeds per umbel (213.4) seed yield (17.32 qt ha-1) and harvest index (34.21%) but all these parameters were at par with 0.80 PE irrigation level. Further, paired row sowing of 30 cm × 70 cm recorded significantly higher growth, yield attributes, seed yield and harvest index of fennel. It is therefore felt that for ensuring higher productivity of rabi fennel, suitable irrigation levels involving drip irrigation in conjunction with appropriate crop geometry need to be developed for arid and semi-arid conditions of Rajasthan.','Crop geometry, drip irrigation, growth, productivity','Results of the present investigation showed that the Irrigation level 1.0 PE with paired row sowing of 30 cm × 70 cm gave significantly highest growth parameters, number of umbels per plant, number of seeds per umbel, yield and harvest index were statistically at par with 0.80 PE.','-','Bharti Devi, S.R. Bhunia, Anita Saini and Rupesh Kumar Meena (2023). Effect of Irrigation Levels and Crop Geometry on Growth, Yield Parameters and Yield of Fennel (Foeniculum vulgare Mill.) Cultivar Grown under Drip System. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 15(2): 698-701.'),(6168,'149','A Review Study on the Effectiveness of Nutrition Rehabilitation Centers in the Field of Severe Acute Malnutrition','Tripti Dhawan and K.N. Singh ','A-Review-Study-on-the-Effectiveness-of-Nutrition-Rehabilitation-Centers-in-the-Field-of-Severe-Acute-MalnutritionDhawan-Tripti-111.pdf','',1,'Child mortality is the major problem faced by all the developing countries and Severe acute malnutrition is the major cause of all the mortality and morbidity in children under the age of five years. Government has started lots of programmes regarding nutritional care of mother & child in order to improve their nutritional status. Nutrition Rehabilitation Center is one of them. This center is only for severely acute malnourished children of 0-5 years. Nutrition Rehabilitation Center has been developed with the aim to enhance the status of nutrition of children through provision of quality health services and nutritional care to children under the age of 5 years. To conclude this study, we reviewed many national and international researches spanning over a year to assess the effectiveness of Nutrition Rehabilitation Center in the field of Severe Acute Malnutrition. Secondary data has been used to perform this synthetic review. The source of this data is mostly online data base like Google, Pub Med, Research Gate etc. We searched articles which were based on Nutrition Rehabilitation Center, Severe Acute Malnutrition, child malnutrition, mother and child malnutrition etc. We conducted a detailed review of all papers, articles and reports on the bases of inclusion and exclusion criteria. Nutrition Rehabilitation Center is a government initiative towards Severe Acute Malnutrition. It’s helpful to combat malnutrition. Therapeutic diet F-75, F-100 are showed positive results on Severe Acute Malnutrition children. Nutrition Rehabilitation Center plays an effective role in combating Severe Acute Malnutrition in our community, but lack of awareness plays a negative impact on programme as well as on community health.','Nutritional rehabilitation center, Severe Acute Malnutrition, Under nutrition, Community based nutrition programme, Malnutrition','On the basis of above studies, we conclude that malnutrition can be considered as a silent killer. Malnutrition is under reported and unrecognized or late identified in small and backward areas’ children due to lack of awareness. Malnutrition is a life-threatening issue in developing countries like India. Poverty, education, socio-economic status and many more factors are negatively associated with Severe Acute Malnutrition. Education is a weapon by which people not only be able to fight with circumstances but also people can help themselves in such kind of conditions. \r\nNutrition Rehabilitation Center is a very good governmental approach but due to lack of awareness and information, population is not able to utilize full benefit of this scheme. \r\nNutrition Rehabilitation Center have work with major objectives which are documented in guidelines given by World Health Organization. There are some basic parameters on which children are admitted in Nutrition Rehabilitation Centers. These guidelines also contain information about infrastructure, required equipment, human resource, medicines, diets and also financial framework. This will provide directions and guidelines for setting up new Nutrition Rehabilitation Centers and definitely will be effective if implementation is done efficiently. It’s a very good approach and provides community-based treatment. For best result we need higher and inclusive standards of inclusion and exclusion criteria. Once admitted children should be treated with the established modus operandi. And continuous monitoring of child should be done. If child don’t show any progress, they should refer to higher facility center. When the child is discharge from the facility proper follow-up should be mandatorily done. Education, awareness and knowledge with desire to fight Severe Acute Malnutrition will helpful to reduce malnutrition. Reduction in poverty is a major step against malnutrition. \r\n','-','Tripti Dhawan and K.N. Singh (2023). A Review Study on the Effectiveness of Nutrition Rehabilitation Centers in the Field of Severe Acute Malnutrition. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 15(2): 702-707.'),(6169,'149','Estimation of Genetic Parameters for Yield and Kernel Iron and Zinc Concentration in Maize (Zea mays L.)','Pavan Devesh, Rajesh Singh, Kartikeya Srivastava, M. Shankar, Pargat Singh and Munnesh Kumar ','Estimation-of-Genetic-Parameters-for-Yield-and-Kernel-Iron-and-Zinc-Concentration-in-Maize-(Zea-mays-L.)-Pavan-Devesh-112.pdf','',1,'Maize is one of the important cereal crop cultivated around the world. Micronutrients malnutrition is a major concern in the peoples of developing countries. Present study was done to estimate the genetic parameters of forty-six maize genotypes (inbred lines) collected from CIMMYT, Hyderabad and Banaras Hindu University (BHU), Varanasi. The research experiment was conducted in randomized complete block design (RCBD) with two replications at Agricultural Research Farm, Institute of Agricultural Sciences, BHU, Varanasi during Kharif 2018. ANOVA indicated a significant difference among maize genotypes for all the characters. Genotypic coefficient of variance (GCV) was lower than phenotypic coefficient of variance (PCV) for all the characters. Highest heritability (bs) was detected for plant height followed by kernel zinc content, kernel iron content, grain yield per plant, days to 50% tasseling, days to 50% silking and cob length without husk. Highest genetic advance was observed for plant height whereas, the highest genetic advance as percentage of mean (GAM) was observed for kernel zinc content followed by kernel iron content, 100 seed weight and cob length without husk. The findings of the present investigation indicated the presence of enough genetic variability among the maize genotypes analysed, which can be exploited for maize improvement programs and development of cultivars/hybrids to enrich iron and zinc content in maize kernels.','Maize, PCV, GCV, heritability, iron and zinc','Maize inbred lines exhibited a significant variation for all the traits studied. High heritability with high genetic advance was observed for plant height. Based on mean performance, promising maize inbreds were identified for kernel iron content viz., CML-229, VL-109524, HUZM-242 and VL-1016211; for zinc content viz., HUZM-97-1-2, VL-109309, VL-109582, HUZM-77 and VL-1028. These maize inbreds can be utilize for the improvement of iron and zinc content through appropriate breeding methods. Identified maize inbred lines with high micronutrient can be used for the development of bio-fortified maize cultivars/hybrids to reduce the malnutrition problem.','-','Pavan Devesh, Rajesh Singh, Kartikeya Srivastava, M. Shankar, Pargat Singh and Munnesh Kumar (2023). Estimation of Genetic Parameters for Yield and Kernel Iron and Zinc Concentration in Maize (Zea mays L.). Biological Forum – An International Journal, 15(2): 708-711.'),(6170,'149','Studies on Gas Chromatography-Mass Spectrometry (GC-MS) and Thin Layer Chromagraphy (TLC) Analysis of Three Spotted Crab (Portunus sanguinolentus)','K. Madhubala and T. Selvamohan','Studies-on-Gas-Chromatography-Mass-Spectrometry-(GC-MS)-and-Thin-Layer-Chromagraphy-(TLC)-Analysis-of-Three-Spotted-Crab-(Portunus-sanguinolentus)-K.pdf','',4,'Crabs are decapods crustaceans of the family Portunidae. Carbs obtain carotenoids from an external sources like medium and food materials. It has been suggested that carotenoids are strong antioxidants that shield membrane lipids from harmful peroxidation processes. The peculiar spectrum characteristics of carotenoids were frequently used for detection and quantification; these chemicals\' conjugated polyene architectures give them their distinct light absorption spectra, high molar absorptivity, and remarkable lower limits of detection. In the present study, carotenoids are extracted from the three spotted crabs. I collected from the South East Coast of India. The results revealed that carotenoid compounds were distributed a varied level in the carapace and muscle. Increasing variability was observed in carotenoid groups between individuals concerning age. The quantities of carotenoids of hexane extract were determined by GC-MS and TLC respectively. The experimental crab species seems to contain a comparable concentrations of carotenoids.','Three spotted crab, Carotenoids, FAME, GC-MS, and TLC','Many useful bioactive compounds are found out from the crab shell extract. These compounds are play important role as well as several antimicrobial molecules were detected for further studies.','-','K. Madhubala and T. Selvamohan (2023). Studies on Gas Chromatography-Mass Spectrometry (GC-MS) and Thin Layer Chromagraphy (TLC) Analysis of Three Spotted Crab (Portunus sanguinolentus). Biological Forum – An International Journal, 15(2): 712-718.'),(6171,'148','Effect of Nano form ZnO priming Treatments on Growth and Yield of different Wheat Variety','Bittu Ram, Satbir Singh Jakhar, Axay Bhuker, Digamber, Hamender and Pradeep Singh','Effect of Nano form ZnO priming Treatments on Growth and Yield of different Wheat Variety-BITTU RAM-105-3313.pdf','',1,'In order to determine the impact of nano form ZnO priming treatments on the yield and yield-contributing characteristics of six wheat varieties, the current experiment was conducted at the Department of Seed Science and Technology, CCS Haryana Agricultural University, Hisar. WH 1184, WH 1105, WH 1124, HD 2967, HD 2851, and PBW 343 wheat varieties\' seeds were primed with 100 ppm ZnO nanoparticles before sowing in the field beside a control crop that had not been treated. All the types were assessed for yield and yield-contributing traits, including test weight, grain yield, biological yield, plant height, number of effective tillers, number of grains per spike, spike length, and number of spikelets per spike. The seeds of all wheat varieties when primed with 100 ppm ZnO nanoparticles at 4 hours duration gave significantly greater plant height, number of effective tillers, number grains per spike, number of spikelets per spike, test weight, grain and biological yield than untreated seeds. The maximum increase in plant height was recorded in WH1184 (5.04%) followed by PBW343 (4.92%). The maximum increase in number of grains per spike was recorded in HD2967 (14.48%) followed by WH1124 (6.16%). The maximum increase number of effective tillers per plant was recorded in PBW343 (14.46%) and HD 2967 (14.20%). The maximum increase in test weight was recorded in WH1124 (5.14%) and WH1105 (3.66%). The maximum increase in grain yield was recorded in HD2967 (14.3%) followed by WH1184 (12.3%) that of biological yield was recorded in WH1124 (15.26%) and WH1105 (11.10%).','Wheat, nano priming, ZnO, grain and biological yield','We attempted to assess the impact of ZnO NPs on wheat growth and yield in the current study. With the seed priming of 100 ppm of ZnO NPs in comparison to the control in several wheat varieties, plant growth, photosynthesis, and biomass grains all rose linearly. Therefore, administering Zn in the form of nanoparticles may aid in boosting agricultural productivity. The mechanistic understanding of the application of NPs in this field, however, may be further improved by field investigations with various nanostructure sizes, shapes, circumstances, and plants.','-','Bittu Ram, Satbir Singh Jakhar, Axay Bhuker, Digamber, Hamender and Pradeep Singh (2023) Effect of Nano form ZnO priming Treatments on Growth and Yield of different Wheat Variety. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 15(1): 651-656.'),(6172,'149','Studies on Gas Chromatography-Mass Spectrometry (GC-MS) and Thin Layer Chromagraphy (TLC) Analysis of Three Spotted Crab (Portunus sanguinolentus)','K. Madhubala and T. Selvamohan','Studies-on-Gas-Chromatography-Mass-Spectrometry-(GC-MS)-and-Thin-Layer-Chromagraphy-(TLC)-Analysis-of-Three-Spotted-Crab-(Portunus-sanguinolentus)-K.-Madhubala-113.pdf','',1,'Crabs are decapods crustaceans of the family Portunidae. Carbs obtain carotenoids from an external sources like medium and food materials. It has been suggested that carotenoids are strong antioxidants that shield membrane lipids from harmful peroxidation processes. The peculiar spectrum characteristics of carotenoids were frequently used for detection and quantification; these chemicals\' conjugated polyene architectures give them their distinct light absorption spectra, high molar absorptivity, and remarkable lower limits of detection. In the present study, carotenoids are extracted from the three spotted crabs. I collected from the South East Coast of India. The results revealed that carotenoid compounds were distributed a varied level in the carapace and muscle. Increasing variability was observed in carotenoid groups between individuals concerning age. The quantities of carotenoids of hexane extract were determined by GC-MS and TLC respectively. The experimental crab species seems to contain a comparable concentrations of carotenoids.','Three spotted crab, Carotenoids, FAME, GC-MS, and TLC','Many useful bioactive compounds are found out from the crab shell extract. These compounds are play important role as well as several antimicrobial molecules were detected for further studies.','-','K. Madhubala and T. Selvamohan (2023). Studies on Gas Chromatography-Mass Spectrometry (GC-MS) and Thin Layer Chromagraphy (TLC) Analysis of Three Spotted Crab (Portunus sanguinolentus). Biological Forum – An International Journal, 15(2): 712-718.'),(6173,'149','Weed Management Strategies in Summer Blackgram (Vigna mungo L. Hepper) Grown in Sandy Loam Soils of Western Nagaland','Anjali Taku, Lanunola Tzudir, Shivani Kumari and Debika Nongmaithem','Weed Management Strategies in Summer Blackgram (Vigna mungo L.pdf','',1,'Field investigation was carried out during summer season at Medziphema (Nagaland) with a view to find the efficiency of different weed management interventions in managing the weeds of blackgram (Vigna mungo L. Hepper) grown during 2022 with seven treatment comprising of T1: Weedy check (Control), T2: Hand weeding at 20 and 40 DAS, T3: Cardboard mulching, T4: Paddy straw mulching @ 5 t ha-1, T5: Saw dust mulching @ 5 t ha-1, T6: Linseed stover mulching @ 5 t ha-1 and T7: Farmer’s practice in a randomized complete block design (RCBD) with three replications. The results revealed that hand weeding at 20 and 40 DAS gave maximum decrease in total weed population (5.58, 6.47 no. m-2) and weed dry weight (3.34, 4.41 g m-2). Hence, recorded the highest weed control efficiency (85.94%) which was at par with paddy straw mulching @ 5 t ha-1 at 40 DAS (83.84%). Highest growth and yield of summer blackgram was also observed under the same treatment which was at par with paddy straw mulching @ 5 t ha-1. The treatment with paddy straw mulching @ 5 t ha-1 gave the highest net return (`14863.55/ha) and B:C ratio (1.42) thus was found to be economically better and most effective for summer blackgram among all the treatments studied.','Cardboard mulching, growth, linseed stover mulching, sawdust mulching, weeds, yield','The research findings of the study revealed that different Weed management strategies has potential impact on the growth and yield attributes of summer blackgram. Hand weeding at 20 and 40 DAS gave the highest seed yield, stover yield and harvest index and it was found to be statistically at par with paddy straw mulching while the economic analysis revealed that paddy straw mulching recorded the highest B:C ratio and this was found to be more economically viable than the rest of the treatments. Hence, this practice can be adopted by farmers of this region in blackgram for maximizing the benefits.','-','Anjali Taku, Lanunola Tzudir, Shivani Kumari and Debika Nongmaithem (2023). Weed Management Strategies in Summer Blackgram (Vigna mungo L. Hepper) Grown in Sandy Loam Soils of Western Nagaland. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 15(2): 719-723.'),(6174,'149','Formulation and Evaluation of Hylocereus Undatus for Treatment of Psoriasis','Jayshri B. Sanap, A.V. Chandewar, Mayuri G. Zore, Vaishnavi V. Chore, Aachal V. Ingle and Nitin K. Kochar','Formulation and Evaluation of Hylocereus undatus for Treatment of Psoriasis-Jayshree Bhimrao Sanap-115.pdf','',1,'The pitaya, from the cactus family, sometimes called dragon fruit or dragon fruit, has aroused the curiosity of connoisseurs of the subject for its unique flavor, shape, and color. Also documented the functions of H. polyrhizus seeds, including their antioxidant capacity, and the use of various parts of H. undatus to promote wound healing in diabetic rats. This study aimed to determine the relationship between ethanol and Helicobacter pylori. Efficacy of pericarp undatus and a reformulated gel containing botanical components of H. undatus pericarp extract on ultraviolet-induced psoriasis in rats. Herbal remedies are widely claimed to be effective in treating various skin conditions. Unfortunately, no research supports their use in psoriasis. The acute dermal and oral toxicity of ethanolic extracts of plant bark in gels and suspensions has been studied. Acute dermal toxicity results at 1% w/w and oral toxicity data at 1000 mg/kg indicate that the gel and suspension are safe. Wistar rats developed psoriasis by exposing 10% of their body to ultraviolet light. 2.5% and 5% gels were used to test antipsoriatic activity. The severity index, histological examination, and biochemical analysis were studied. Our results indicate that the test formulation (gel) of plant bark extract has antipsoriatic activity.','Dragon fruit, psoriasis, phytochemical screen, UV-C induced photodermatitis, Perry mouse tail model','On the basis of the results obtained in our study, it is observed that the seed contains high amounts of phytochemicals which have various activities like anti-cancerous activities, anti-microbial activities, antioxidant activities, etc. Various approaches are available for topical drug delivery system which fulfills pharmacotherapeutic aspects as well as patient compliance. Herbal formulations have growing demand in the world market as natural products are more acceptable in the belief that they are safer than synthetic one. However, for treatment of topical gel shows better results as compare to cream and ointment. The gel were prepared and evaluated for various physicochemical and performance characteristics and compared with marketed gel. Hylocereus undatus shows anti-psoriatic activity by reducing the thickness of epidermal layer, presence of stratum granulosum layer in ultraviolet-C induced psoriasis whereas orthokeratosis in Perry’s mice tail model compared with control group. In Ultraviolet- C induced psoriasis model Hylocereus undatus shows significant reduction of epidermal layer thickness & presence of Stratum Granulosum. In Perry’s scientific mice tail model Hylocereus undatus shows significant orthokeratosis % which is absent in mice.','-','Jayshri B. Sanap, A.V. Chandewar, Mayuri G. Zore, Vaishnavi V. Chore, Aachal V. Ingle and Nitin K. Kochar (2023). Formulation and Evaluation of Hylocereus undatus for the Treatment of Psoriasis. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 15(2): 724-731.'),(6175,'149','Effect of Inorganic Fertilizer, Organic Manures and Nano Urea on Vegetative Attributes and Biochemical Activity of Garlic','Rajesh Choudhary, M.R. Choudhary, Yogesh Kumar Sharma, Anita Choudhary and Pushpa Ujaniya','Effect-of-Inorganic-Fertilizer,-Organic-Manures-and-Nano-Urea-on-Vegetative-Attributes-and-Biochemical-Activity-of-Garlic-Rajesh-Choudhary-116.pdf','',1,'Optimum nutrient management is crucial for vegetative growth of crops. A key approach for making garlic crop cultivation profitable is balanced application of nutrients as suitable method. It is possible by supply of nutrients through inorganic fertilizer, organic manures and nano urea. The present experiment was designed during 2020-21 at experimental field of horticulture at S. K. N. College of Agriculture, Jobner to investigate the effect of inorganic fertilizer, organic manures and nano urea on growth and biochemical activity of garlic. The experiment comprising of 24 treatment combinations with six levels of inorganic fertilizers, organic manures along with bio fertilizers (O1B0 – 100% RD via Inorg. Frt. without Biofert., O1B1¬ – 100% RD via Inorg. Frt. with Biofert., O2B0 – 75% RD via Inorg. Frt. & 25 OM without Biofert., O2B1 – 75% RD via Inorg. Frt. and 25 OM with Biofert., O3B0 – 50% RD via Inorg. Frt. and 50% OM without Biofert., O3B0 – 50% RD via Inorg. Frt. and 50% OM with Biofert.) and four levels of nano urea (N0-control, N1- Nano urea @ 25 ml/ha, N2-Nano urea @ 50 ml/ha, N3-Nano urea @ 75 ml/ha) in SPD with 3 replications. The application of treatment 100% RD of N through inorganic fertilizers + biofertilizer inoculation recorded significantly highest plant height (27.64 cm), number of leaves (4.96 cm) and chlorophyll content (1.85 mg/g). Further, the foliar application of nano urea @ 75 ml/ha being at par with foliar application of nano urea @ 50 ml/ha and significantly increased in growth parameters as compared to other treatments. Conclusively, the results suggest that application of nutrients through inorganic fertilizer, organic manures and nano urea improve the vegetative growth and biochemical activity of garlic crop.','Inorganic Fertilizer, Organic Manures and Nano Urea, Growth and Biochemical Activity','On the basis of results of two years experimentation, found that application of 100% RD of N through inorganic fertilizers and bio fertilizer along with foliar spray of nano urea @ 75 ml/ha remained significantly higher on vegetative growth and biochemical activity of garlic.','-','Rajesh Choudhary, M.R. Choudhary, Yogesh Kumar Sharma, Anita Choudhary and Pushpa Ujaniya (2023). Effect of Inorganic Fertilizer, Organic Manures and Nano Urea on Vegetative Attributes and Biochemical Activity of Garlic. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 15(2): 732-736.'),(6176,'149','LIP1 Regulates Lipid Metabolism in Saccharomyces cerevisiae','Arul Mathivanan and Vasanthi Nachiappan','LIP1-Regulates-Lipid-Metabolism-in-Saccharomyces-cerevisiae-Vasanthi-Nachiappan-117.pdf','',1,'LIP1 is an acyl-CoA-dependent ceramide synthase vital in synthesizing sphingolipids. However, the function of LIP1 in the other main lipids, such as phospholipids and neutral lipids, is still to be investigated. In this work, we evaluated the influence of the loss of LIP1 on overall lipid metabolism, and we discovered that the deletion of LIP1 had disrupted cell development, neutral lipid metabolism, and phospholipid homeostasis. As adequate phospholipid production is crucial for counteracting ER stress, we subjected the LIP1 deletion cells to ER stress (DTT treatment). We discovered that the LIP1 deletion cells were more vulnerable to ER stress than the wild. The levels of ER stress response genes levels were also elevated in LIP1 deletion cells compared to the control. Thus, our study provides the new function of LIP1 in ER stress response mechanisms and lipid homeostasis. ','Ceramide, sphingolipids, phospholipids, neutral lipids, ER stress, DTT','Our results conclude that apart from the role of LIP1 in ceramide synthesis, LP1 also plays a significant modulatory role in producing phospholipids and neutral lipids. Phospholipids mainly function as structural lipids, and their synthesis was downregulated, while the TAG and lipid droplets (LD) synthesis was upregulated. Loss of LIP1 severely affected cell growth under ER stress and increased the expression of ER stress response genes, thus implying LIP1’s role in maintaining ER stress and protein quality control.','-','Arul Mathivanan and Vasanthi Nachiappan (2023). LIP1 Regulates Lipid Metabolism in Saccharomyces cerevisiae. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 15(2): 737-741.'),(6177,'147','Design and Development of a Solar Energy Operated Maize Sheller','Balveer Singh, Lokesh Kumawat, H. Raheman and Manish Patel','Design-and-Development-of-a-Solar-Energy-Operated-Maize-Sheller-Balveer-Singh-112.pdf','',1,'Shelling means removal of maize grains from the portion of the cob that holds them. This separation is done by hand or machine applying shear force. Maize shelling has improved over period of time going from traditional methods to present day mechanized shellers. In traditional method, maize shelling is carried out by hand by pressing the grains with the thumb with an output of about 10-12 kg/h. Engine powered sheller has the short coming of unavailability of fossil fuel in rural areas and increase of pollution, which demands an alternative energy powered sheller. This project work aimed to develop a maize sheller which runs on solar energy with more output capacity, less labor requirement. The major component of the sheller was solar photovoltaic system, shelling unit and blower. The SPV system was consisted of a solar panel, a solar charge controller (MPPT), DC motor, and a motor charge controller. A pair of 325 W solar panel was connected to a solar charge controller to maximize the power which was then transferred to a battery. This power was found sufficient to run the 450 W DC motor through motor charge controller which controlled the speed of motor. The sheller unit (cylinder and blower) was driven by DC motor through chain and sprocket transmission. The developed sheller could work efficiently for 38 min with only discharging the battery. The peripheral speed of cylinder was kept 3.56 m/sec. The moisture content of maize kernels and grain to non-grain ratio were found to be 14.3% and 3.23:1, respectively. The maximum shelling efficiency was obtained 99.6% at a feed rate of 102 kg/h. The corresponding cleaning efficiency, percentage of broken grain and blown grain were obtained 97.8%, 3.9% and 3.6%, respectively. The developed solar operated maize sheller could perform the shelling operation effectively at a solar intensity higher than 600 W/m2 without any power consumption from battery.','Maize sheller, solar energy operated maize sheller, solar photovoltaic system, shelling efficiency, cleaning efficiency, percentage of broken and blown grain','Finally, the performance of the developed SEOM sheller was evaluated using maize cobs (Ganga 101). It was observed that When the DC motor was running continuously without charging the battery it was able to carry out shelling for a maximum period of 38 min with the shelling efficiency of 99.6%, 99.3%, 99% and 98.9% at a feed rate of 102 kg/h, 103.5 kg/h, 105.2 kg/h and 107.67 kg/h, respectively for maize cob at 14.3% m.c. (db) and grain to non-grain ratio of 3.23:1. The corresponding percentage of broken grain was obtained 3.9%, 4%, 4.3% and 3.85%. The developed SEOM sheller could perform the shelling operation efficiently at a solar intensity higher than 600 W/m2 without any power consumption from battery. The capacity of developed solar energy operated maize sheller was smaller than engine and electrical powered sheller but it is a renewable energy resource widely available of sunlight with free cost, eco-friendly, clean technology with zero CO2 emission and reduced the environmental degradation and save the cost of electricity. By on battery power backup, solar energy operated maize sheller can be operated any time in 24 × 7, even in cloudy days or at night and can be used for a longer period of operation of shelling by continuously charged the batteries. Initial installation cost is high but considering it has long advantage with free rechargeable, lower manpower expenses and free from pollution. Hence, it is an efficient and economical substitute of shelling of maize cobs for the small and medium farmers and industries of India. ','-','Balveer Singh, Lokesh Kumawat, H. Raheman and Manish Patel (2022). Design and Development of a Solar Energy Operated Maize Sheller. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 14(4a): 647-655.'),(6178,'149','IoT and AI Enabled Framework to Monitor Soil and Crop Health for Sustainable Development in Precision Farming-A Study','Devendra Singh Bais, Vibha Tiwari, Savita Kolhe and Saurabh Jain','IoT-and-AI-Enabled-Framework-to-Monitor-Soil-and-Crop-Health-for-Sustainable-Development-in-Precision-Farming-A-Study-Saurabh-Jain-118.pdf','',1,'Emerging technologies like Internet of Things (IoT) and Artificial Intelligence (AI) play a significant role in the automation of processes and improving quality of life in terms of sustainable livelihood. The significance of these technologies extends to every domain we can think of. The use of IoT and AI have helped in relieving the farmers risk and enhancing the crop productivity. The World Population Data Sheet 2022 indicates that the global population could grow to around 8.5 billion in 2030, and add 1.18 billion in the following two decades, reaching 9.7 billion in 2050 and the global demand for food which anticipated to grow 70% by 2050. Expected food supply, land requirement to fulfill this demand and reduction in emission are some major challenges. Therefore, increasing and improving the quality of the crop yield is a major field of interest. It is necessary to change the traditional methods and procedures employed in agriculture to satisfy the global demand for food. This paper underlined the comparative analysis in conjunction with an IoT enabled Framework to regulate Soil and Crop Health for sustainable development in precision farming using modern tools and technologies to mitigate challenges and opportunities.','Precision Farming, IoT, AI, Cloud Computing, Sensors, Computer Vision','Recent findings suggests that agriculture is a very significant sector for Indian economy, contributing about 17% to the total GDP and offering employment to over 60% of the population. Therefore, it is indeed to reform farming by timely soil testing & crop disease detection using machine learning algorithms and AI techniques efficiently on real time datasets via computer vision to get soil fertility and crop health status regularly. This paper provides the detailed analysis to find both soil nutrient deficiencies and crop ailments to ensure proper dose of fertilisers and make available the sufficient stock of NPK & other fertilizers for future crops for achieving higher yield and quality respectively. The proposed IoT enabled Framework along with soil test result helps the farmers to regulate Soil and Crop Health for their financial growth through proper selection of crop and determining plant diseases at early stages for better prevention and cure. ','-','Devendra Singh Bais, Vibha Tiwari, Savita Kolhe and Saurabh Jain (2023). IoT and AI Enabled Framework to Monitor Soil and Crop Health for Sustainable Development in Precision Farming-A Study. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 15(2): 742-749.'),(6179,'149','An Overview of Digital Technologies in Agriculture and their Applications','Hema Lingireddy, Kotte Bhargava, Abhishek E., Barla Madhusudhan, C. Banu Teja and B. Guru Sri','An-Overview-of-Digital-Technologies-in-Agriculture-and-their-Applications-Kotte-Bhargava-119.pdf','',1,'Sensors, drones, and precision farming software especially artificial intelligence and machine learning are rapidly being used in agriculture to increase efficiency, production, and sustainability. These technologies may be used to monitor and improve various aspects of agricultural and livestock production, such as irrigation, fertilization, pest control, and animal health. Additionally, via the use of data analysis and predictive modelling, they may help with improved decision making. Digital technology may also assist to increase food safety and traceability while decreasing waste and resource consumption. Globally, the use of digital technology in agriculture has the potential to increase the economic viability of agricultural operations and contribute to the global food supply. However, poor digital literacy, infrastructure availability, internet connectivity, and low level of awareness among all the agriculture stake holders. Moreover, there are few papers which have given an overview of all the digital technology components. So, the present review paper has discussed the digital agricultural technology components available in agriculture sector.','Artificial intelligence, digital technology, machine learning, software','To sum up, the use of digital farming technology has the potential to significantly enhance the efficiency, production, and sustainability of the agricultural sector. Farmers may better improve their practices and yields with the use of technologies like global positioning system (GPS) devices, sensors, data analytics, remote sensing, decision support systems, automation, and robots. In addition to lowering costs, these technologies may boost agricultural yields, making them a crucial resource for farmers everywhere. It\'s worth noting, however, that implementing digital farming technology isn\'t without its share of difficulties, including a potential need for new methods of education and support, as well as worries about personal data security and privacy. In sum, digital farming technologies have great promise as a means to combat the difficulties in the agricultural industry and provide a prosperous and environmentally friendly future for farmers. ','-','Hema Lingireddy, Kotte Bhargava, Abhishek E., Barla Madhusudhan, C. Banu Teja and B. Guru Sri (2023). An Overview of Digital Technologies in Agriculture and their Applications. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 15(2): 750-757.'),(6180,'149','Field Screening for Morpho-Physiological Traits in Bread Wheat (Triticum aestivum L. em. Thell) Genotypes under Moisture Stress','Divya Chaudhary, Swati, Jai Prakash Jaiswal, Amarjeet Kumar, Sivendra Joshi, Nimita Kandwal and Babita Bhatt','Field Screening for Morpho-Physiological Traits in Bread Wheat (Triticum aestivum L. em.pdf','',1,'Moisture stress is one of the main limiting factors for reducing yield in the wheat crop. Therefore, for the development of moisture stress tolerant cultivars, morpho-physiological attributes are an effective tool to screen genotypes with a large adaptation to a range of environments, namely irrigated and rainfed conditions. An experiment was conducted for the identification of moisture stress tolerant wheat genotypes by field screening of sixteen genotypes under irrigated and rainfed conditions. The tolerant genotypes were identified by percent decrease in performance for the morpho-physiological traits under rainfed conditions. In the present investigation, the morphological traits, i.e., 1000 grain weight, grains/spike, grain weight/spike (g) and grain yield/plant (g), were taken into account for the identification of moisture stress-tolerant wheat genotypes. The tolerant genotypes, i.e., BOW/VEE/5/ND/VG9144//KAL/BBB/YACO/4/CHIL/6/CASKOR/3/…, PBW660, HD3086, WH1080, FRANCOLIN#1/BAJ#1, VL3001, BECARD/KACHU were identified on the basis of morphological traits. Whereas, on the basis of a percent decrease in performance in physiological traits, i.e., NDVI at anthesis, NDVI at 15 days after anthesis, canopy temperature depression at anthesis and 15 days after anthesis, chlorophyll content at anthesis and 15 days after anthesis, relative water content and quantum yield were accounted and tolerant genotypes, i.e., BECARD/KACHU, PBW644, PBW660 and FRANCOLIN#1/BAJ#1 were identified. Therefore, these identified genotypes based on morpho-physiological traits can be used in future wheat breeding programmes to develop high-yielding and moisture-stress tolerant cultivars.','Wheat, moisture stress, Morphological traits, Physiological traits, Percent decrease','Wheat is a major cereal crop worldwide. The moisture stress is one of the most important limiting factor for wheat yield. The different morpho-physiological traits are key drought tolerance selection factors. Based on these traits, it may be concluded that various genotypes showed tolerance to moisture stress conditions for different traits. Therefore, identified tolerant genotypes can be used in future breeding programmes to develop water stress-tolerant cultivars.','-','Divya Chaudhary, Swati, Jai Prakash Jaiswal, Amarjeet Kumar, Sivendra Joshi, Nimita Kandwal and Babita Bhatt (2023). Field Screening for Morpho-Physiological Traits in Bread Wheat (Triticum aestivum L. em. Thell) Genotypes under moisture stress. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 15(2): 758-763.'),(6181,'149','Response of Exogenous 2,4-D, Urea and ZnSO4 on Biochemical Composition and Plant Leaf Nutrients of Kinnow','Heerendra Prasad, Vaibhav Chittora, Jayesh Garg and Vinay Kumar Kardam','Response-of-Exogenous-2,4-D,-Urea-and-ZnSO4-on-Biochemical-Composition-and-Plant-Leaf-Nutrients-of-Kinnow-Vinay-Kumar-Kardam-121.pdf','',1,'The present investigations were carried out at the RHR&TS, Dhaulakuan, District Sirmour of Dr. Y. S. P. University of Horticulture & Forestry, Nauni, Solan. There are also several challenges that need to be considered, including leaf surface and plant coverage, timing and frequency, chemical compatibility, environmental factors, and cost-effectiveness. This investigation was conducted on 15 year old Kinnow fruit trees, with 8 treatments as T1 Urea as 1%, T2 ZnSO4 as 0.4%, T3 2,4-D as 20 ppm, T4 Urea as 1% + ZnSO4 as 0.4%, T5 Urea as 1% + 2,4-D as 20 ppm, T6 ZnSO4 as 0.4% + 2,4-D as 20 ppm, T7 Urea as 1% + ZnSO4 as 0.4% + 2,4-D as 20 ppm and T8 Control. From the observation in maximum fruit quality of Kinnow as TSS, Juice content, Acidity, Sugars and Vitamin C was recorded with T7 treatment. In case of macro and micro leaf nutrients was also recorded with Urea, Zinc and 2,4-D combination. From the this view it may be concluded that combination of the Urea, Zinc and 2,4-D increase the fruit quality and leaf nutrients. ','Leaf Nutrients, Kinnow, 2,4-D, Urea, Zinc Sulphate','This investigation was conducted as T1 Urea as 1%, T2 ZnSO4 as 0.4%, T3 2,4-D as 20 ppm, T4 Urea as 1% + ZnSO4 as 0.4%, T5 Urea as 1% + 2,4-D as 20 ppm, T6 ZnSO4 as 0.4% + 2,4-D as 20 ppm, T7 Urea as 1% + ZnSO4 as 0.4% + 2,4-D as 20 ppm and T8 Control. From the observation in maximum fruit quality of Kinnow as TSS, Juice content, Acidity, Sugars and Vitamin C was recorded with T7 treatment. In case of macro and micro leaf nutrients was also recorded with Urea, Zinc and 2,4-D combination. From the this view it may be concluded that combination of the Urea, Zinc and 2,4-D increase the fruit quality and leaf nutrients. By following proper guidelines and recommendations, growers can effectively use foliar spray to enhance the nutritional value, shelf life, and appearance of Kinnow fruit.','-','Heerendra Prasad, Vaibhav Chittora, Jayesh Garg and Vinay Kumar Kardam (2023). Response of Exogenous 2,4-D, Urea and ZnSO4 on Biochemical Composition and Plant Leaf Nutrients of Kinnow. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 15(2): 764-767.'),(6182,'149','Socio-economic Factors Influencing the Adoption of Scientific Dairy Animal Feeding and Breeding Practices: A Case of Muzaffarnagar in Uttar Pradesh','Divyanshu Singh Tomar, Surender Singh Lathwal, Pawan Singh and Indu Devi','Socio-economic-Factors-Influencing-the-Adoption-of-Scientific-Dairy-Animal-Feeding-and-Breeding-Practices-A-Case-of-Muzaffarnagar-in-Uttar-Pradesh-Divyanshu-Singh-Tomar-122.pdf','',1,'This study was conducted in order to assess the degree to which dairy farmers in the Muzaffarnagar district of Uttar Pradesh adopted scientific feeding and breeding practices, and their correlation with the socioeconomic profile of the dairy farmers. In this study, a sample of 200 dairy farmers was randomly chosen from 4 villages that are within a 10-kilometre radius of ICAR-NDRI\'s field operational centre in Lalukheri village of Muzaffarnagar district. Overall adoption rates for breeding management (71.2%) were better than those for scientific feeding management practices (56.4%) among dairy producers in the studied area. Further, it was demonstrated that the improvement in socio-economic characteristics such as family income, landholding, educational attainment, and contact with extension agencies led to a rise in the adoption of scientific feeding and breeding practices by dairy producers. Often dairy farmers were unaware of modern scientific management practices. If feeding and breeding practices are properly managed, the desired amount of milk production would be feasible. Given this fact, the study managed to improve farmers\' understanding of the significance of appropriate breeding and feeding practices.','Adoption, Breeding practices, Dairy animals, Feeding practices, Socio-economic','According to the study, the total adoption rate of scientific feeding and breeding methods was about 56% and 71%, respectively, in the study area. The correlation between landholdings, education, annual income, and extension contact was extremely significant (p < 0.01). Conversely, there was a significant negative connection (p < 0.05) between experience in dairy farming and adoption. On the other hand, there was no significant relationship between the adoption of better animal husbandry practices and household size, age, herd size, or milk yield. These associations showed that farmers with higher levels of education, land ownership, annual income, and extension contact may be more likely to adopt more advanced animal breeding and feeding practices. To increase the degree of adoption of scientific dairy animal breeding and feeding practices and other aspects of animal management as well, it is necessary to regularly undertake training and awareness programmes with regard to animal management issues. That would guarantee the dairy cattle owners\' long-term economic security.','-','Divyanshu Singh Tomar, Surender Singh Lathwal, Pawan Singh and Indu Devi (2023). Socio-economic Factors Influencing the Adoption of Scientific Dairy Animal Feeding and Breeding Practices: A Case of Muzaffarnagar in Uttar Pradesh. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 15(2): 768-773.'),(6183,'149','Cohabitation of Fusarium oxysporum f. sp. pisi and Meloidogyne incognita in pea (Pisum sativum L.) Var. Kashi Nandini and its Effect on Plant Growth','Balkishan Chaudhary and Jayant Bhatt','Cohabitation-of-Fusarium-oxysporum-f.-sp.-pisi-and-Meloidogyne-incognita-in-pea-(Pisum-sativum-L.)-Var.-Kashi-Nandini-and-its-Effect-on-Plant-Growth-Balkishan-Chaudhary-123.pdf','',1,'In glasshouse conditions, a disease complex involving Meloidogyne incognita and Fusarium oxysporum f. sp. pisi was investigated on pea. The pot experiments were carried out to decide the pathogenic effects of pathogens individually as well as collaboratively. M. incognita and F. oxysporum f. sp. pisi, individually caused a significant reduction in plant height, fresh and dry weight, in comparison of un-inoculated control. Various plant growth parameters were observed significant related with the reduction of plant growth when simultaneous and sequential inoculation of M. incognita and F. oxysporum f. sp. pisi was done. However, the reduction was more prominent when both the pathogens inoculated simultaneous. Nematode multiplication, galls formation in numbers, egg masses, eggs/egg masses and population of nematode were adversely exaggerated on simultaneous and sequential inoculation of both the pathogens in all the treatments. It was concluded that both the pathogens viz., M. incognita and F. oxysporum f. sp. pisi are virulent against the pea Var. Kashi Nandini which defined the seriousness of disease and ultimately adaptation of management if such condition formed.','Cohabitation, Fusarium oxysporum f. sp. pisi, plant growth, pathogenic effects','The above exploration obviously clarify the relation between M. incognita and Fusarium oxysporum f. sp. pisi and their role in causing the disease in pea. The above study reported that the nematode, M. incognita acts as predisposing agent for the invasion of F. oxysporum f. sp. pisi and their combined infestation reduced the plant growth parameters and significantly changes modified the biochemical components in the plant. Cohabitation of nematode-fungus should be given emphasis while formulating the management strategies for the successful supervision of the both pathogens. ','-','Balkishan Chaudhary and Jayant Bhatt (2023). Cohabitation of Fusarium oxysporum f. sp. pisi and Meloidogyne incognita in pea (Pisum sativum L.) Var. Kashi Nandini and its effect on plant growth. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 15(2): 774-778.'),(6184,'149','Screening of Soybean Genotypes against Cowpea Mild Mottle Virus Infection','Manoj Kumar Yadav, Mukesh Kumar Yadav, Kumkum Verma, Shahil Kumar, Abhishek Dubey, Pankhuri Singhal, K.P. Singh, S.K. Lal and V.K. Baranwal ','Screening of Soybean Genotypes Against Cowpea Mild Mottle Virus Infection-Manoj Kumar Yadav-124.pdf','',1,'Cowpea mild mottle virus (CPMMV), a whitefly and seed transmitted carla virus, is an emerging soybean disease in India and many tropical and subtropical regions of Africa and Asia. This virus causes significant yield and quality losses under field conditions. The utilization of resistant varieties is the best strategy to manage the losses caused by the CPMMV. Keeping this in mind, a field experiment was conducted at ICAR-IARI, New Delhi, situated at 28.6° N latitude, 77.16° E longitude at an elevation of 228.61 m above the mean sea level. The present study was conducted to identify the soybean genotypes resistant against cowpea mild mottle virus infection. Soybean genotypes with varied symptoms; mild mosaic, systemic mottling, stunting and leaf deformation were observed under field conditions. The CPMMV disease incidence in the soybean field varied from 10-85% during Kharif 2019. The field screening study identified fifty soybean genotypes as resistant to moderately resistant, while 40 genotypes showed susceptible reactions. These fifty genotypes were phenotyped using sap inoculation under controlled conditions. The glasshouse study showed that nine (18%) soybean genotypes showed a moderately-resistant reaction, nine genotypes were moderately susceptible, thirteen genotypes showed a susceptible reaction and 19 genotypes were highly susceptible against CPMMV infection. The current study would help in the utilization of identified genotypes in soybean resistance breeding to develop CPMMV resistant varieties and study host-pathogen interaction.','CPMMV, mottle, genotypes, resistance, mechanical inoculation','Field screening complemented with controlled glasshouse screening of soybean genotypes would help in identification of resistant genotypes against CPMMV infection. This would result in their rational use through their utilization in soybean resistant breeding programs, identification of novel gene(s)/allele(s) and study of host pathogen interaction at molecular level. ','-','Manoj Kumar Yadav, Mukesh Kumar Yadav, Kumkum Verma, Shahil Kumar, Abhishek Dubey, Pankhuri Singhal, K.P. Singh, S.K. Lal and V.K. Baranwal (2023). Screening of Soybean Genotypes Against Cowpea Mild Mottle Virus Infection. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 15(2): 779-783.'),(6185,'149','Polyphenol Compounds and their Benefits of Mangifera indica L. (Var. Kottukonam) Grow in varied Seasons and Altitude','Shalaj Rasheed, Raveendran P.B. and Lubaina Abdulhadeef Shereefa ','Polyphenol Compounds and their Benefits of Mangifera indica L. (Var. Kottukonam) Grow in varied Seasons and Altitude Shalaj Rasheed-125.pdf','',1,'Secondary metabolites are bioactive chemical compounds that play a key role in defense and adaptation mechanisms, widely distributed in all parts of plants. Among them carbon-based metabolites such as polyphenols and tannins have greater ecological and economic importance. The major challenge of the present study was to fractionate and quantify the polyphenol composition through HPLC and LC- MS/MS analysis from the leaves of Mangifera indica L. (var. kottukonam) collected from three altitudes in four different seasons. The results of the study revealed great variation in the type and concentration of polyphenols with respect to the season and altitude. Pre-reproductive winter and reproductive summer seasons showed higher concentration of polyphenols than south west and north east monsoon seasons, coastal Vizhinjam sample revealed higher concentration of such antioxidant phytochemicals than the other altitude samples. Among different polyphenols Gallic acid concentration is highest in almost all the samples. More stressed conditions resulted to the production of more polyphenols in kottukonam variety of mango. ','HPLC, LC-MS/MS, Mangifera indica, Kottukonam, Polyphenols, Gallic acid','Efforts have been made in the identification, isolation and quantification of bioactive phytochemicals in the last few decades because of their immense therapeutical effects to human life. The results of the study disclosed the presence of an array of phytochemicals such as phenols, flavonoids, tannins, saponins, steroids, terpenoids and alkaloids in Mangifera indica L. (var. kottukonam). The major phytochemicals, polyphenols especially phenols and flavonoids showed noticeable level in all the twelve samples of Mangifera indica L. (var. kottukonam) and are identified through their specific quantitative assay methods. The LC-MS/MS and HPLC analysis of the methanol leaf extracts of the study material in four seasons from three altitudes against the standard polyphenols confirmed the presence of different phenolic compounds having antioxidant property and these results would serve as a benchmark for future comparative studies in the biochemical changes Mangifera indica L. (var. kottukonam) during flowering (reproductive stage) and non-flowering seasons. The quantitative analysis of the actual phenolic compounds present in the samples from summer, south west monsoon, north east monsoon and winter seasons would be facilitated by means of comparison with standard chromatogram, empowering identification and confirmation of polyphenols. The results of the study recommends that more stressed conditions were overcome by the tree by producing different polyphenols (antioxidant phytochemicals) which also will resulted to the flowering and fruiting.','-','Shalaj Rasheed, Raveendran P.B. and Lubaina Abdulhadeef Shereefa (2023). Polyphenol Compounds and their Benefits of Mangifera indica L. (Var. Kottukonam) Grow in varied Seasons and Altitude. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 15(2): 784-795.'),(6186,'150','Protective Effects of Garcinia talbotii bark extract against Induced Oxidative Damage on Human Erythrocytes','Sandeep Kumar Jain R., Meghana P., Prashanth N., Pooja S. Rajaput and Kumaraswamy H.M.','3 Protective Effects of Garcinia talbotii bark extract against Induced Oxidative Damage on Human Erythrocytes-Kumaraswamy HM-3.pdf','',1,'Garcinia talbotii is a tree belonging to the family Clusiaceae, found in evergreen forests of Western Ghats. Reactive oxygen species induces cell and tissue injury and contribute to chronic inflammation underlying many neurodegenerative, cardiovascular, and metabolic diseases. Shade dried Garcinia talbotii bark was subjected to ethanol extraction using soxhlet apparatus and Garcinia talbotii bark ethanol extract was screened for protective effects against H2O2 induced oxidative damage on human erythrocytes by HRBC membrane stabilization assay, inhibition of albumin denaturation assay and also inhibition of H2O2 induced oxidative damage on erythrocyte ghost membrane proteins by SDS-PAGE. The results showed that Garcinia talbotii bark extract (GBE) at a concentration of 50-250μg/ml, significantly protected the heat induced protein denaturation. At the concentration of 100 and 200 μg/ml, GBE significantly (p<0.01) inhibited H2O2 induced haemolysis and also protected the erythrocyte morphology, which was further confirmed by performing SDS-PAGE for erythrocyte ghost membrane proteins. The present study for the first time demonstrates the in vitro anti-inflammatory effects of Garcinia talbotii.','Garcinia talbotii, Erythrocytes, Inflammation, Oxidative damage, Ghost membrane','The presence of bioactive compounds in Garcinia talbotii bark extract contributed to the protection of proteins and HRBC membrane, oxidative stress in erythrocytes has been significantly reduced by Garcinia talbotii bark extract. The results obtained in the present study indicate that ethanol extract of Garcinia talbotii bark can be a potential antioxidant and anti-inflammatory agent.','-','Sandeep Kumar Jain R., Meghana P., Prashanth N., Pooja S. Rajaput and Kumaraswamy H.M. (2023). Protective Effects of Garcinia talbotii bark extract Against Induced Oxidative Damage on Human Erythrocytes. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 15(3): 16-20.'),(6187,'149','Design and Optimize a Bilayer Tablet of Antihypertensive Drugs using a 32 Factorial Design','Pooja Kadu, Amar Zalte and Vishal Gulecha','Design and Optimize a Bilayer Tablet of Antihypertensive Drugs using a 3 2 Factorial Design-Pooja Kadu-126.pdf','',1,'This research aimed to develop a bilayer tablet of telmisartan and Cilnidipine using a 32 factorial design approach. Telmisartan is an angiotensin II receptor antagonist, while Cilnidipine is a calcium channel blocker. By combining these drugs in a bilayer tablet, the physicochemical differences between them could be overcome, reducing the need for frequent dosing. The compatibility of the active ingredients and excipients in each layer is critical to the success of a bilayer tablet. One of the major challenges of bilayer tablet formulation is ensuring that the two layers remain separate and do not mix during manufacturing, storage, or handling. The tablet was formulated using Croscarmellose sodium and sodium starch glycolate as super disintegrants for the telmisartan layer, and HPMC K-100M, methylcellulose, and dicalcium phosphate for the Cilnidipine layer. The optimized batch of immediate-release F7 showed 95.51% drug release, while the sustained-release F5 batch showed 96.46% drug release. Compatibility studies using FTIR and different scanning calorimetry analyses confirmed compatibility between drug and excipients. Evaluation tests, including tablet dimension, hardness, friability, weight uniformity, drug content, and in-vitro dissolution, yielded satisfactory results, indicating the potential effectiveness of the optimized bilayer tablet for treating hypertension.','Bilayer tablet, HPMC K100m, Telmisartan, Cilnidipine, Factorial design','In this study, a bilayer tablet formulation of antihypertensive drugs telmisartan and cilnidipine was developed. Telmisartan was incorporated into an immediate-release layer while cilnidipine was formulated into a sustained-release layer to achieve a desired pharmacological effect. The bilayer tablet was prepared using a special technique involving wet granulation, and beta-cyclodextrin was employed to improve the solubility of telmisartan. Various super disintegrants, including sodium starch glycolate and cross-carmellose sodium, were used in different amounts to optimize the immediate-release layer. The best formulation was found to be F7, which demonstrated excellent super disintegrant effect. For the sustained-release layer, HPMC K-100 M was utilized, and it provided satisfactory sustained release up to 12 hours. A 32 factorial design was employed for formulation optimization, and drug-excipient compatibility investigation using DSC showed no interaction between the drug and excipients. FTIR analysis demonstrated the presence of peaks for the drugs. An in vitro drug release study using the USP type II apparatus showed that the telmisartan immediate release optimized batch exhibited 95.51% drug release in 15 minutes, while the cilnidipine sustain optimized release batch showed 96.46% drug release up to 12 hours. The optimized formulation stability study was show the satisfactory result. The optimized formulation maintains the physical and chemical quality. The bilayer tablet demonstrated a synergistic effect and improved patient compliance by combining the two drugs.','-','Pooja Kadu, Amar Zalte and Vishal Gulecha (2023). Design and Optimize a Bilayer Tablet of Antihypertensive Drugs using a 32 Factorial Design. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 15(2): 794-803.'),(6188,'149','Study on the Genetic Variability of Gladiolus (Gladiolus hybrida Hort.) under Southern Rajasthan','Manisha Verma, Saddam Husain, L.N. Mahawer, Poonam, H.L Bairwa and Sachin Kumar','Study on the Genetic Variability of Gladiolus (Gladiolus hybrida Hort.) under Southern Rajasthan-Manisha Verma-127.pdf','',1,'The present research was carried out in the horticulture farm at the Rajasthan College of Agriculture, MPUAT, Udaipur, from October 2019 to May 2020. The experiment field was carried out in randomised block design (RBD) with 22 genotype of Gladiolus. The data was collected for 13 quantitative characters from five competitive plants that were randomly chosen from each replication. Indicating the impact of environment on these features, the phenotypic coefficient of variation (PCV) was larger than the genotypic coefficient of variation (GCV) for all characters. High phenotypic and genotypic coefficients of variation was recorded as the corm per plant (g) (30.4423 and 31.8004), spike per plant (28.7050 and 30.2679), Weight of cormels per plant (26.6444 and 27.869) respectively. The estimates of heritability varied from 30.48 to 30.48 % for different characters under study. It was found high for all the traits except vase life and spike durability in field. ','Gladiolus, GCV, PCV, Heritability and Genetic Advance','Based on the present investigation, the high magnitude of heritability (in broad sense) coupled with high genetic gain was observed for most traits exhibiting additive genetic effect. It was observed that PCV was higher than GCV for all the traits studied highest GCV and PCV is recorded as the corm per plant (g) (30.4423 and 31.8004), spike per plant (28.7050 and 30.2679), Weight of cormels per plant (26.6444 and 27.869) respectively. ','-','Manisha Verma, Saddam Husain, L.N. Mahawer, Poonam, H.L Bairwa and Sachin Kumar (2023). Study on the Genetic Variability of Gladiolus (Gladiolus hybrida Hort.) under Southern Rajasthan. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 15(2): 804-807.'),(6189,'149','Housing Management Practices of Dairy Animals in Coastal Karnataka','Cherryl D.M., Vishwaradhya T.M., Vijaylaxmi I.M., Kanchana K., Vidyasagar and Kotresh Prasad C. ','Housing Management Practices of Dairy Animals in Coastal Karnataka-Kotresh Prasad-128.pdf','',1,'Housing of dairy animals according to the respective agro-climatic zone will enhance productivity and ensure welfare of the animal. A field survey in Mangalore taluk of Dakshina Kannada district of Karnataka ascertained the housing practices followed by dairy animal owners. Data was collected from randomly selected 180 dairy farmers through personal interview using a pre-tested structural interview schedule. The present study revealed that majority of the respondents (77.78 %) had close type of animal house and 87.22 percent of farmers had katcha type of house. 90.00 percent of the dairy farmers kept their animals inside the shelter only in the night and about 92.22 percent of cattle sheds were attached to human dwelling. Most of the farmers (63.89 %) were using manger for feeding their cattle. Most of them provided levelled floor (72.78 %) with pucca type (55.56 %) of drain. From the study, it can be inferred that a majority of dairy farmers adopted better animal husbandry techniques. However, further improvements need to be brought to maximize the production and provide comfort to the dairy animals.','Dairy, housing, kutcha, pucca, coastal, roof','From the study, it can be inferred that a majority of dairy farmers adopted better animal husbandry techniques. However, further improvements need to be brought to maximize the production and to provide comfort to the dairy animals. The economic situation and staffing of positivism in terms of change agency interaction, scientific orientation, risk orientation, knowledge, and exposure to Information and Communication Technologies (ICT) up to required level may be the probable causes of the aforementioned finding. Therefore, it is necessary to educate people through numerous workshops and hands-on exhibits both on and off the campuses of different organisations.','-','Cherryl D.M., Vishwaradhya T.M., Vijaylaxmi I.M., Kanchana K., Vidyasagar and Kotresh Prasad C. (2023). Housing Management Practices of Dairy Animals in Coastal Karnataka. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 15(2): 808-810.'),(6190,'149','Survey to Assess the Absolute Frequency, Relative Frequency, Relative Density, Absolute Density and Prominence Value of different Nematodes Associated with Gerbera and Capsicum in Polyhouse condition','Sunil Awati, Manthesha H.D., S. Lingaraju, Virupaksha Prabhu H. and S.M. Mantur','Survey to Assess the Absolute Frequency, Relative Frequency, Relative Density, Absolute Density and Prominence Value of Different Nematodes Associated with Gerbera and Capsicum in Polyhouse condition-Manthesha HD-128.pdf','',1,'Identification of nematode problem on crops grown under polyhouse is problematic to nematologist as well scientific research community. The present study was carried out with the purpose to assess the occurrence of prevailing plant pathogenic nematode associated with gerbera and capsicum grown in protected cultivation in north Karnataka. Survey on different genera of plant parasitic nematodes associated with gerbera grown in polyhouses of Kelageri, Navaloor and Pachapur revealed that, Meloidogyne incognita and Aphelenchoides sp. occurred more frequently followed by Helicotylenchus dihystera, Tylenchus-like PPN and Rotylenchulus reniformis with absolute frequencies of 83.3, 66.7, 50, 50, 16.7 respectively. Whereas nematodes associated with capsicum in polyhouses in Dharwad and Chabbi showed maximum diversity in genera of plant pathogenic nematodes such as Meloidogyne incognita and Rotylenchulus reniformis occurred more frequently followed by Pratylenchus sp., Tylenchus-like PPN, Hirschmanniella sp., Helicotylenchus dihystera and Aphelenchoides sp. with absolute frequencies of 66.7, 38.9, 16.7, 16.7, 11.1, 5.6 and 5.56 respectively. Based on prominence values, it was evident that in gerbera polyhouses surveyed, Aphelenchoides sp., H. dihystera, Tylenchus-like PPN and R. reniformis were prominent after M. incognita. Whereas, in the capsicum polyhouses surveyed, M. incognita was the most prominent nematode associated with capsicum followed by R. reniformis, Pratylenchus sp., Tylenchus-like PPN, Hirschmanniella sp., H. dihystera and Aphelenchoides sp. ','Gerbera, Capsicum, Meloidogyne, prominence value','Efforts were made to know the pathogenic nematode species associated with gerbera and capsicum crops grown in polyhouses located in North Karnataka. Twenty four soil/plant samples were collected from different polyhouses structures located in Dharwad, Belagavi, Bagalkote and Haveri districts. Totally twenty four polyhouses of both gerbera and capsicum were surveyed for the plant pathogenic nematode incidence. The collected rhizosphere samples of gerbera and capsicum were further subjected to soil processing and extraction of plant pathogenic nematodes. Morphological identification of the different plant parasitic nematodes and perineal pattern studies for Meloidogyne spp. was done and the prevalent nematodes were identified to genus level by and large, although species diagnosis was made with respect to the most prevalent/predominant nematode pathogen (and a few others).\r\nThe most common plant pathogenic nematodes present were Helicotylenchus dihystera, Hirschmanniella sp., Rotylenchulus reniformis, Pratylenchus spp., Meloidogyne incognita, Tylenchus-like PPN on capsicum and gerbera grown in the polyhouses. \r\n','-','Sunil Awati, Manthesha H.D., S. Lingaraju, Virupaksha Prabhu H. and S.M. Mantur (2023). Survey to Assess the Absolute Frequency, Relative Frequency, Relative Density, Absolute Density and Prominence Value of different Nematodes Associated with Gerbera and Capsicum in Polyhouse condition. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 15(2): 811-817.'),(6191,'149','Influence of different Dates of Sowing and Varying Integrated Nutrient Management Practices on Growth, Yield and Economics in Wheat (Triticum aestivum L.)','Dharmendra Kumar and Hemraj Meena','Influence of different Dates of Sowing and Varying Integrated Nutrient Management Practices on Growth, Yield and Economics in Wheat (Triticum aestivum L.)-Hemraj Meena-130.pdf','',1,'A field experiment was conducted to assess the \"Influence of different dates of sowing and varying integrated nutrient management practices on growth, yield and economics in wheat (Triticum aestivum L.)\" during the rabi seasons of 2020-2021 and 2021-2022. It included three sowing dates viz., 10 November, 25 November and 10 December as well five integrated nutrient management practices, including 100% RDF through inorganic fertilizer, 75% RDN through inorganic fertilizer + 25% N through FYM, 50% RDN through inorganic fertilizer + 50% N through FYM, 75% RDN through inorganic fertilizer + 25% N through Vermicompost, 75% RDN through inorganic fertilizer + 25% N through Poultry manure. When compared to 10 December, the wheat sown on November 25 had the highest plant height, tillers per square metre, dry matter accumulation (g/running m), LAI, yield-attributing characters, grain yield, straw yield and B-C ratio, while remaining noticeably on par with 10 November. The 50% RDN through chemical fertilizer + 50% N through FYM nutrient management treatment had the highest values for growth characteristics, yield characteristics, grain yield, straw yield, net return and B-C ratio over the rest the treatments.','Wheat, integrated nutrient management, dates of sowing, growth, yield and economics','Based on a two year study, it was concluded that the combined use of 50% RDN through inorganic fertilizer + 50% N through FYM with timely sowing (25 Nov) performed significantly better in terms of growth parameters, yield parameters and also performed economically well as compared to other treatments. The treatment is recommended gives maximum profit to the farmers. ','-','Dharmendra Kumar and Hemraj Meena (2023). Influence of different Dates of Sowing and Varying Integrated Nutrient Management Practices on Growth, Yield and Economics in Wheat (Triticum aestivum L.). Biological Forum – An International Journal, 15(2): 818-822.'),(6192,'149','Evaluating the Impact of Bakanae Disease on Leaf Gas Exchange Physiology of Rice in Resistant and Susceptible Genotypes','Jagdish Yadav, Ashok Kumar Mahawer, Amit Kumar Kesharwani, Prashantha S.T. and Oinam Washington Singh','Evaluating the Impact of Bakanae Disease on Leaf Gas Exchange Physiology of Rice in Resistant and Susceptible Genotypes-Jagdish Yadav-131.pdf','',1,'Rice is the one main source of nutrition for a larger part of world population but a significant proportion of rice production is lost every year due to various and biotic stress factors. Bakanae disease is an emerging and serious threat to rice production and the remedies are needed of the bakanae disease otherwise it can be a destructive disease. The leaf gas exchange activities are seriously affected by any stress to normal plants. In present study the impact of bakanae disease on various leaf gas exchange activities of rice in two contrasting (resistant & susceptible) genotypes was studied. It was observed that pathogen inoculation inhibited the germination, increased the plant height and decreased the root length in susceptible genotype with no significant changes in resistant genotype. The leaf gas exchange activities were was initially increased in inoculated plants but later it was decreasing as compared to control. The reduction was very high in susceptible genotype with very less reduction in resistant genotype. No significant changes were observed in any activity in control plants of both genotypes at each time interval.','Bakanae disease, inoculation, leaf gas exchange, stress, susceptible','The findings of the study reveals that the leaf gas exchange activities of plants is affected by disease severity. The genotypes varying in their response to the disease infection show different changes in their physiological parameters when challenged with the pathogens. The photosynthesis rate or net carbon assimilation rate generally tends to decrease in the infected plants because of many reasons associated with it. But in resistant genotypes as there is no or very less disease, these factors do not affect that much and not much significant change is observed. Similarly, the other activities like transpiration rate, water use efficiency, internal CO2, stomatal conductance etc are also affected differently by pathogen infection in different genotypes according to their susceptibility towards the pathogen.','-','Jagdish Yadav, Ashok Kumar Mahawer, Amit Kumar Kesharwani, Prashantha S.T. and Oinam Washington Singh (2023). Evaluating the Impact of Bakanae Disease on Leaf Gas Exchange Physiology of Rice in Resistant and Susceptible Genotypes. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 15(2): 823-829.'),(6193,'149','Weather based Forecasting of Fungal Foliar Diseases of Bt. Cotton','Somashekhar N.M., Kulkarni V.R. and Sabeena I.B. ','Weather based Forecasting of Fungal Foliar Diseases of Bt. Cotton-Kulkarni VR-132.pdf','',1,'Cotton (Gossypium spp.) an important commercial crop called as king of fibres. It is known to be infected by many diseases such as Alternaria blight, grey mildew, rust and black arm of cotton. Disease development is mainly influenced by weather parameters such as maximum and minimum temperature, morning and evening relative humidity, rainfall and rainy days. Studies were conducted to assess the progress of fungal foliar diseases on two Bt genotypes of cotton (Bunny Bt and Dr. Brent Bt) in relation to weather parameters. The results revealed that significant negative correlation was observed for minimum temperature, morning and evening relative humidity, number of rainy days in both the genotypes with PDI of Alternaria blight alone and significant negative correlation was observed for minimum temperature, morning and evening relative humidity in both the genotypes with grey mildew PDI. The significant negative correlation was observed in cotton rust for minimum temperature, morning and evening relative humidity in both the genotypes. This study focuses on impact of weather parameters on fungal foliar diseases and tackles the problem as well.','Alternaria blight, black arm, correlation, cotton, Gossypium spp., grey mildew','The present studies concluded that, maximum and minimum temperature, morning and evening relative humidity, rainfall and rainy days are the critical weather parameters contributing to the development of alternaria blight, grey mildew and rust. Farmers are advised to take up the preventive measures to control the diseases as per the standard recommendations. ','-','Somashekhar N.M., Kulkarni V.R. and Sabeena I.B. (2023). Weather based Forecasting of Fungal Foliar Diseases of Bt. Cotton. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 15(2): 830-835.'),(6194,'149','Antimicrobial activity of Polyalthia longifolia extract, fungal chitosan and its combinatorial studies','Shankara S., Srinivasulu M.V., Roshan A. and Narasimha Murthy K. ','Antimicrobial activity of Polyalthia longifolia extract, fungal chitosan and its combinatorial studies-Narasimha Murthy K-133.pdf','',1,'Medicinal plants play an important role in protective our health and these plants are nature\'s gift to lead defensive life. India is one of the greatest ethanoculturally varied nations in the world, where the remedial plant area is part of a time privileged practice that is treasured even today. Pharmacologic research on the plant parts displays effective cytotoxic function, hypotensive effect, hypoglycemic activity, antiulcer activity, and antimicrobial activity. In this present study the antimicrobial activity of combinatorial studies of aqueous extract Polyalthia longifolia and chitosan (FCh) extracted from Aspergillus niger. The extracted FCh characterized by by using UV-visible spectroscopy, FT-IR, and SEM coupled with EDX analysis. Further, the antimicrobial activity of aqueous extract of P. longifolia and chitosan (FCh) was checked by using disc diffusion assay. Also the combinatorial antimicrobial activity studies of FCh and P. longifolia were studied. The results of FT-IR showed, the characteristic peaks of FCh shows at 3435 cm-1, 2924cm-1, 1645 cm-1, 1412 cm-1and 1021 cm-1 attributing towards O-H strech, C-H strech, N-H bend C-H bend-C-N stretch. The characteristic peak at 191 nm obtained from spectrophotometric evaluation confirms the presence of Ch. The microscopic view of FCh was also observed through SEM coupled with EDX showed that FCh smooth surface. The antimicrobial action of aqueous extract of P. longifolia zone of inhibition was ranges from 10.6±0.1 to 12.6±0.3mm and FCh show 11.6±0.5 to 18.2±0.3 mm at 0.5 to 10mg/ml concentrations. The combinatorial studies FCh and P. longifolia showed highest percent mycelial inhibition against A. flavus and F. verticillioides. The percent mycelial inhibition of A. flvaus was 87.6±0.4 % and F. verticillioides 97.6±0.5% at 0.5 to 10mg/ml concentrations. The obtained results confirms that the combinatorial studies FCh and P. longifolia could be used as alternative green strategy for the control of microbial activity. ','Polyalthia longifolia, chitosan, characterization, antimicrobial activity, mycelial inhibition, combinatorial studies','In this study the chitosan was extracted from A. niger. The yield after 13th day of incubation. The UV-visible spectrophotometer, FTIR, SEM coupled with EDX also confirmed that chitosan. The extracted fungal chitosan was subjected to antimicrobial activity, and it was found the fungal chitosan were active against the bacteria and fungi. Our finding suggests that the A. niger is the potential candidate to produce eco-friendly chitosan in the development of drugs and food industries. Future prospective of the study may be extended in the following future directions. Apart from aqueous extract of P. lonifolia, the major components and its combition of FCh used as antimicrobial agent. Further, the preparation of fungal chitosan and its combination of P. lonifolia can be evaluated at nanolevel. The FCh and its combination of other plant extracts, their components can be studied at nanolevel used as antimicrobial agent. ','-','Shankara S., Srinivasulu M.V., Roshan A. and Narasimha Murthy K. (2023). Antimicrobial activity of Polyalthia longifolia, extract fungal chitosan and its combinatorial studies. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 15(2): 836-842.'),(6195,'149','Enhancing Soybean Performance with Foliar Application of Thiourea: A Study on Yield, Quality and Economics','Deepak Kumar Meena, Ajay Kumar, Amit Bhatnagar, R.K. Sharma, Akshay Kumar Yogi, K. Srikanth Reddy, Pragya Naithani and Tejveer Singh ','Enhancing Soybean Performance with Foliar Application of Thiourea A Study on Yield, Quality and Economics-Deepak Kumar Meena-134.pdf','',1,'Soybean is the second most significant source of vegetable oil in India, comprising 23 percent of total vegetable oil production after mustard. Since India is importing a significant amount of vegetable oil, soybean is crucial in addressing the shortage of edible oil in the country. In kharif 2020, a field study was carried out at N. E. Borlaug CRC, GBPUAT, Pantnagar, Uttarakhand to investigate the impact of foliar application of thiourea on soybean crop. The study involved two types of soybean varieties, PS 1347 and SL 958, and various concentrations of foliar sprays of thiourea (250, 500, and 750 ppm) in addition to water spray and control. The experiment was conducted using a factorial randomized block design with four replications. The impact of the treatments administered was assessed based on their effects on yield, quality, and economic indicators. It was recorded that PS 1347 variety was superior than SL 958 in majority of characters and recorded around 10.08 per cent higher biological yield than SL 958. Amongst the concentration of thiourea, use of foliar spray of thiourea @ 750 ppm reported maximum seed index (10.75 g), seed yield per plant (10.39 g/plant), haulm yield (5096 kg/ha) biological yield (7311 kg/ha), protein yield (901 kg/ha), oil yield (434 kg/ha), gross return (Rs. 85955/ha) and net returns (Rs. 49875/ha), which were statistically at par with the results obtained by the foliar application of 500 ppm thiourea at the same interval. However, protein and oil content showed no significant difference due to variety and foliar spray. Challenges in the study were selection of the suitable varieties for research that can represent the wider area of cultivation and other challenge is that foliar spray of thiourea was only compared with water spray and control. There is need to compare these treatments with other commonly used treatments in soybean to assess their relative effectiveness.','Cultivars, Economics, Foliar spray, Quality, Soybean, Thiourea, Yield','After conducting a year-long study, it was determined that PS 1347 variety of soybean produced better seed index, yield, protein yield, oil yield, and economic returns compared to SL 958 variety. Thiourea spray at 500 ppm and 750 ppm showed the most consistent and significant response among the foliar applications tested. Both were statistically at par with each other. There was no significant interaction observed between the two factors. Therefore, it can be inferred that using PS 1347 variety of soybean and applying thiourea at 500 ppm during the 23 and 54 DAS is a commendatory option and most remunerative for farmers to improve the productivity and profitability of soybean in India.','-','Deepak Kumar Meena, Ajay Kumar, Amit Bhatnagar, R.K. Sharma, Akshay Kumar Yogi, K. Srikanth Reddy, Pragya Naithani and Tejveer Singh (2023). Enhancing Soybean Performance with Foliar Application of Thiourea: A Study on Yield, Quality and Economics. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 15(2): 843-851.'),(6196,'149','Potential Health Risk Associated with Application of Organic Amendments','Siyaram Meena, Atma Ram Meena, Atmaram Chobhe, Chinmayee Behera and Ravi Saini','Potential Health Risk Associated with Application of Organic Amendments-Siyaram Meena-135.pdf','',1,'Application of organic-amendments in soil is an age-old practice for supplying nutrients to the crops. Organic amendments (animal slurry, manure, compost, and sewage sludge) provide vital nutrients to the soil besides increasing its organic matter content, improved soil structure, better physical condition and promotes microbial populations. Along with the benefits, use of organic amendments can result in possible risks and threats to human health due to presence of several contaminants. These organic amendments may contain organic pollutants, heavy metal (oids), pathogens and other contaminants. These contaminants impose risks to human health which can be reduced by treatment of these amendments before application. Apart from sewage and sludge, other sources like manures are ensured to be applied to the soils at right rate, time and place. But still, there is a need to develop effective measures to reduce the hazards involved with the application of organic amendments while getting all the benefits. Therefore, the main objective of this paper is to review all the possible health hazards due to application of organic amendments to the soil and recommending improved management practices which ensure least contamination of food or water resources.','Organic amendments, sewage, contaminants, human health','Organic amendments not only make good use of often-limited nutrient supplies, but they may also mitigate the adverse changes in soil conditions caused by faulty crop production techniques. Essential nutrients, as well as useful organic compounds, may be found in materials that are commonly thought of as waste. However, the most of organic amendments, sewage biosolids and animal manures, have contaminants that make it hazardous for human and animal health. While nutrients are necessary for healthy agricultural development, they can also pose a direct or indirect harm to human health if present in excessive quantity. Heavy metal and metalloids, organic pollutants, antibiotics, pathogenic bacteria and viruses are the major contaminants in organic amendments. Enteric pathogens such as helminthic worms, protozoa, and viruses are commonly found in animal faeces, and these pathogens can infect both farm animals and humans through contaminated feed, water supplies, and waste. There are few of improved management practices which ensure that these harmful substances cannot contaminate food or water resources. But still, there is a need to develop effective techniques to reduce the hazards involved with application of organic amendments to agricultural soil.','-','Siyaram Meena, Atma Ram Meena, Atmaram Chobhe, Chinmayee Behera and Ravi Saini (2023). Potential Health Risk Associated with Application of Organic Amendments. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 15(2): 852-860.'),(6197,'149','Effect of different doses of gamma rays to induce flower mutants in spray chrysanthemum (Chrysanthemum morifolium Ramet.)','Swathi, K., Tapas Mandal2 and Vijayalaxmi, M.','113 Effect of different doses of gamma rays to induce flower mutants in spray chrysanthemum (Chrysanthemum morifolium Ramet.pdf','',4,'Three cultivars used for the study on effect of different doses of gamma rays exhibited their differential radio sensitivity. The survival percentage was decreased with increase in radiation dose from 0 to 20 Gy and no plants survived beyond 20 Gy. LD50 differed with the cultivars in which Bidhan Swapna is highly sensitive to gamma rays. Increase in radiation dose resulted in reduction of various growth parameters and delayed blooming. The doses of gamma rays (10, 15 and 20 Gy) used in the experiment are effective but the most efficient dose was 10 Gy for Bidhan Shova and BC-8-05 and 20 Gy for Bidhan Swapna because these doses generated maximum number of useful as well as viable mutants. Flower colour mutants in chimeric form was detected at 10 Gy in BC-8-05 and 20 Gy radiation dose gave solid colour mutants in Bidhan Swapna. Most of the floret shapes as well as changed flower colour and floret shape mutants were identified at 15 Gy and 20 Gy. The frequency of type V (floret shape) and type VI (flower colour) mutants was more in M1V1 and M1V2 generations respectively. ','Chrysanthemum, irradiation, mutant, survival percentage, flower colour, flower shape, solid mutant','In the present experiment 2-3 types of flower form mutants were isolated as solid mutants and some chimeric mutants which shows that the changes for flower colour and flower form are due to independent events and the pleiotropic effect is ruled out. Like mutation frequency, the spectrum of mutation also varied with cultivars and dose of gamma rays where pink coloured varieties have a tendency to produce solid mutants and yellow –bronze coloured varieties give raise to flower shape sports and chimeras.','-','Swathi, K., Tapas Mandal and Vijayalaxmi, M. (2021). Effect of different doses of gamma rays to induce flower mutants in spray chrysanthemum (Chrysanthemum morifolium Ramet.). Biological Forum – An International Journal, 13(1): 782-789.'),(6198,'92','Effect of different doses of gamma rays to induce flower mutants in spray chrysanthemum (Chrysanthemum morifolium Ramet.)','Swathi, K., Tapas Mandal and Vijayalaxmi, M.','113 Effect of different doses of gamma rays to induce flower mutants in spray chrysanthemum (Chrysanthemum morifolium Ramet.pdf','',4,'Three cultivars used for the study on effect of different doses of gamma rays exhibited their differential radio sensitivity. The survival percentage was decreased with increase in radiation dose from 0 to 20 Gy and no plants survived beyond 20 Gy. LD50 differed with the cultivars in which Bidhan Swapna is highly sensitive to gamma rays. Increase in radiation dose resulted in reduction of various growth parameters and delayed blooming. The doses of gamma rays (10, 15 and 20 Gy) used in the experiment are effective but the most efficient dose was 10 Gy for Bidhan Shova and BC-8-05 and 20 Gy for Bidhan Swapna because these doses generated maximum number of useful as well as viable mutants. Flower colour mutants in chimeric form was detected at 10 Gy in BC-8-05 and 20 Gy radiation dose gave solid colour mutants in Bidhan Swapna. Most of the floret shapes as well as changed flower colour and floret shape mutants were identified at 15 Gy and 20 Gy. The frequency of type V (floret shape) and type VI (flower colour) mutants was more in M1V1 and M1V2 generations respectively. ','Chrysanthemum, irradiation, mutant, survival percentage, flower colour, flower shape, solid mutant','In the present experiment 2-3 types of flower form mutants were isolated as solid mutants and some chimeric mutants which shows that the changes for flower colour and flower form are due to independent events and the pleiotropic effect is ruled out. Like mutation frequency, the spectrum of mutation also varied with cultivars and dose of gamma rays where pink coloured varieties have a tendency to produce solid mutants and yellow –bronze coloured varieties give raise to flower shape sports and chimeras.','-','Swathi, K., Tapas Mandal and Vijayalaxmi, M. (2021). Effect of different doses of gamma rays to induce flower mutants in spray chrysanthemum (Chrysanthemum morifolium Ramet.). Biological Forum – An International Journal, 13(1): 782-789.'),(6199,'92','Effect of different doses of gamma rays to induce flower mutants in spray chrysanthemum (Chrysanthemum morifolium Ramet.)','Swathi, K., Tapas Mandal and Vijayalaxmi, M.','113 Effect of different doses of gamma rays to induce flower mutants in spray chrysanthemum (Chrysanthemum morifolium Ramet.pdf','',1,'Three cultivars used for the study on effect of different doses of gamma rays exhibited their differential radio sensitivity. The survival percentage was decreased with increase in radiation dose from 0 to 20 Gy and no plants survived beyond 20 Gy. LD50 differed with the cultivars in which Bidhan Swapna is highly sensitive to gamma rays. Increase in radiation dose resulted in reduction of various growth parameters and delayed blooming. The doses of gamma rays (10, 15 and 20 Gy) used in the experiment are effective but the most efficient dose was 10 Gy for Bidhan Shova and BC-8-05 and 20 Gy for Bidhan Swapna because these doses generated maximum number of useful as well as viable mutants. Flower colour mutants in chimeric form was detected at 10 Gy in BC-8-05 and 20 Gy radiation dose gave solid colour mutants in Bidhan Swapna. Most of the floret shapes as well as changed flower colour and floret shape mutants were identified at 15 Gy and 20 Gy. The frequency of type V (floret shape) and type VI (flower colour) mutants was more in M1V1 and M1V2 generations respectively. ','Chrysanthemum, irradiation, mutant, survival percentage, flower colour, flower shape, solid mutant','In the present experiment 2-3 types of flower form mutants were isolated as solid mutants and some chimeric mutants which shows that the changes for flower colour and flower form are due to independent events and the pleiotropic effect is ruled out. Like mutation frequency, the spectrum of mutation also varied with cultivars and dose of gamma rays where pink coloured varieties have a tendency to produce solid mutants and yellow –bronze coloured varieties give raise to flower shape sports and chimeras.','-','Swathi, K., Tapas Mandal and Vijayalaxmi, M. (2021). Effect of different doses of gamma rays to induce flower mutants in spray chrysanthemum (Chrysanthemum morifolium Ramet.). Biological Forum – An International Journal, 13(1): 782-789.'),(6200,'149','Impact of Alternate Prey on the Prey Preference, Prey Switch Strategy and Predatory Performance of the water stick insect Ranatra filiformis Fabricius 1790 (Hemiptera: Nepidae)','Subramanian Arivoli, Samuel Tennyson, Miriam Cecilia Vassou, Grace Marin, Raja Kalaivani and Elangovan Vigneshkumar','Impact of Alternate Prey on the Prey Preference, Prey Switch Strategy and Predatory Performance of the water stick insect Ranatra filiformis Fabricius 1790 (Hemiptera Nepidae)-Samuel Tennyson-136.pdf','',1,'The present work centers on the hypothesis of whether a predator can switch from one prey to another in a mixed prey population. The present endeavor is to clarify the same using nymphal stages of the water stick insect Ranatra filiformis with the prey species comprising of Culex and Chironomous larvae as a mixed prey population. To investigate the test hypothesis of this study, as well as density-dependent predation of Ranatra filiformis nymphs, this experiment was designed. Ranatra filiformis nymphal stages first and second, and from third to fifth were categorized as ‘small and large predators’, respectively. The nymphal predators were divided into four densities, viz., 4, 8, 12 and 16. The effectiveness of predation was investigated at prey densities of 50, 100, 150, and 200 of both Culex and Chironomous larvae. The first and second instar of the prey were categorized as ‘small prey’, while their third and fourth instar as ‘large prey’. Four experimental design (ED) were set up to study predator-prey interaction, viz., ED1 (small predator and small prey), ED2 (small predator and large prey), ED3 (large predator and small prey), and ED4 (large predator and large prey). Each predator density of each experimental design were introduced into a single container with one litre of dechlorinated tap water, and was offered the above mentioned prey densities with an equal ratio of mixed prey population of Culex and Chironomous. The number of prey fed in ED1, ED2, ED3 and ED4 were noted after one hour and thereafter 24 hours. Overall, in ED1, Chironomous was preferred after one hour, and both Culex and Chironomous after 24 hours, and in general, small predators preferred Chironomous; in ED2, Chironomous was preferred after one hour, and Culex after 24 hours, and in general, small predators preferred Culex and Chironomous; in ED3, Chironomous was preferred after one hour, and Culex after 24 hours, and in general, large predators preferred both Culex and Chironomous; and in ED4, in general, large predators preferred Chironomous. When prey density was increased, predation by small predators was more pronounced in 24 hours, and by larger predators on small prey it fluctuated slightly after one hour, but increased predation was observed after 24 hours; and in the case of larger prey, predation fluctuated after one hour, but after 24 hours, a steady increased predation was observed. Secondly, the small and large predators preferred Chironomous after one hour, and both Culex and Chironomous after 24 hours. Thirdly, maximum predation by the small predators on small prey was at 150 and 200 prey density after one and 24 hours, respectively. In the case of small predators on large prey, and for large predators on small prey it was at 200 prey density for both one and 24 hours. Whereas, for large predators on large prey, it was at 100 and 200 prey density after one and 24 hours, respectively. The current investigation explained about the scenario of the predatory performance, as well as prey preference and prey switch by Ranatra filiformis nymphs in a mixed prey population.','Ranatra filiformis, Culex, Chironomous, predator-prey relationship, predatory performance, predator density, prey density, prey preference, prey switch','The current investigation clearly explained about the scenario of the predatory performance as well as prey preference and prey switch by the nymphal stages of Ranatra filiformis in a mixed prey population.','-','Subramanian Arivoli, Samuel Tennyson, Miriam Cecilia Vassou, Grace Marin, Raja Kalaivani and Elangovan Vigneshkumar (2023). Impact of Alternate Prey on the Prey Preference, Prey Switch Strategy and Predatory Performance of the water stick insect Ranatra filiformis Fabricius 1790 (Hemiptera: Nepidae). Biological Forum – An International Journal, 15(2): 861-870.'),(6201,'149','Response of Irrigation Levels, Crop Geometry and Mulch on Fruiting and Picking of okra Grown under Drip System','Atma Ram Meena, R.K. Narolia, S.R. Bhunia, Suman Meena and Siyaram Meena','Response of Irrigation Levels, Crop Geometry and Mulch on Fruiting and Picking of okra Grown under Drip System-Atma Ram Meena-137.pdf','',1,'The field experiments conducted to Instructional Farm, College of Agriculture, Swami Keshwanand Rajasthan Agricultural University, Bikaner, for two consecutive Kharif seasons in 2018 and 2019 to investigate the “Responce of Irrigation Levels, Crop Geometry and Mulch on Fruiting and Picking of okra (Abelmoschus esculentus (L.) Moench) Grown under Drip System”. Experiments were set up in a split plot design and repeated three times. In the main plot, four irrigation levels (40, 60, 80, and 100 per cent PE), in the sub-plot, two crop geometry (normal sowing at 50 cm row spacing and paired row sowing at 30 cm × 70 cm) and in the sub-sub plot, three mulch (no mulch, straw, and plastic mulch) were used. Different irrigation levels, crop geometry and mulch treatments all had a significant impact on days to first fruiting and picking of okra, according to the findings. Pooled mean results showed that irrigation at 40 per cent PE were recorded minimum days to first fruiting and fruit picking. ','Drip Irrigation, Crop Geometry, Mulch, Okra','Out of the four irrigation levels days to first fruiting and picking was recorded minimum with 40 per cent PE levels of drip irrigation, whereas, maximum time required at 100 per cent PE drip irrigation level. The crop geometry had no significant effect on days to first fruiting and picking. In straw mulch, the least time to first fruit initiation and fruit picking.','-','Atma Ram Meena, R.K. Narolia, S.R. Bhunia, Suman Meena and Siyaram Meena (2023). Response of Irrigation Levels, Crop Geometry and Mulch on Fruiting and Picking of okra Grown under Drip System. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 15(2): 871-873.'),(6202,'149','Study of Heterosis for Grain Yield and its Contributing Traits in Bread Wheat (Triticum aestivum L.) under Normal and Late Sown conditions','Madhu Choudhary, H. Singh, D. Gupta and Madhu Yadav','Study of Heterosis for Grain Yield and its Contributing Traits in Bread Wheat (Triticum aestivum L.) under Normal and Late Sown conditions-Madhu Choudhary-138.pdf','',1,'The study was executed during rabi 2019-20 at Agricultural Research Farm of RARI Durgapura, Jaipur (Rajasthan) to study of the heterosis, heterobeltiosis, inbreeding depression. The ten parents along with their 45 F1’s and 45 F2’s, were evaluated in a randomized block design with three replications in two environments created by two dates of sowing i.e. normal sown (10th November) and late sown (25th December). In this study, the significant and high heterosis and heterobeltiosis range has been evaluated for all the characters in both the environments.The crosses that revealed high heterosis for grain yield DPW 621-50 × UP 2425 (67.82%), DPW 621-50 x Raj 4037 (57.27%) and DPW 621-50 x Raj 3765 (55.96%) under E1 whereas, crosses viz., DPW 621-50 x Raj 4037 (77.23%), DBW 90 x Raj 4037 (64.24%) and DPW 621-50 x PBW 550 (61.16%) under E2. Though, heterobeltiosis for grain yield per plant DPW 621-50 x UP 2425 (43.65%), Raj 3765 x Raj 4079 (39.01%) and Raj 4037 x Raj 4079 (38.98%) under E1 whereas, Raj 4037 x Raj 4079 (41.34%), Raj 4037 x Raj 3765 (40.79%) and Raj 3765 x Raj 4079 (37.17%) under E2. ¬The cross DPW 621-50 x Raj 4037 in both environments exhibited desirable heterosis for yield and its attributing traits, respectively. The crosses Raj 4037 x Raj 4079 in E1 while, Raj 4037 x Raj 4079 and Raj 4037 x Raj 3765 in E2 showed desirable heterobeltiosis for yield and its associated traits. Consequent changes in climatic conditions and irregular increasing temperature adversely affects the plant growth and development that causes terrible loss of wheat productivity. The deleterious effects of climate change on wheat production are challenging the food security of the world population. Therefore, to moderate unfavourable effect on wheat of heat stress it is required to develop such varieties that can more succeed in changing climatic conditions of India and specially to Rajasthan. The knowledge of genetic architecture and mode of inheritance of different traits helps breeder to select suitable breeding programme for the development of heat stress tolerant varieties.','Heterosis, Yield, Traits, Normal sown, late sown','The crosses DPW 621-50 x Raj 4037 under both environments exhibited desirable heterosis for all yield attributing traits, respectively. The crosses Raj 4037 x Raj 4079 under E1 and Raj 4037 x Raj 4079 and Raj 4037 x Raj 3765 under E2 showed desirable heterobeltiosis for all yield contributing traits. Future scope of the study is a comparative analysis of the heterotic crosses on the basis of grain yield in each environment, exhibited that the expression of significant heterosis and heterobeltiosis for grain yield per plant depended on other yield contributing traits. The heterosis is direct relevant for developing hybrids in cross-pollinated crops, but it also has importance in self-pollinated crops. In wheat crop, F1’s had higher frequency of productive derivatives in F2 and advance generations. Therefore, estimation of the heterosis along with combining ability should be helpful for selection of parents with good general combining ability and in the selection of crosses through desirable transgressive segregants.','-','Madhu Choudhary¬, H. Singh, D. Gupta and Madhu Yadav (2023). Study of Heterosis for Grain Yield and its Contributing Traits in Bread Wheat (Triticum aestivum L.) under Normal and Late Sown conditions. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 15(2): 874-879.'),(6203,'149','Succession and Seasonal Incidence of Major Insect Pests of Indian Gooseberry and their Relation with Meteorological Parameters','A.L. Choudhary, K.C. Kumawat, Amar Chand and R.K. Nayak','Succession and Seasonal Incidence of Major Insect Pests of Indian Gooseberry and their Relation with Meteorological Parameters-AL Choudhary-139.pdf','',1,'The investigation entitled ‘Succession and seasonal incidence of major insect pests of Indian gooseberry and their relation with meteorological parameters’ was conducted at Asalpur Farm, SKN College of Agriculture, Jobner (Rajasthan) during the year 2019 and 2020. The study on the succession and incidence of insect pests revealed that the leaf roller, Caloptilia (=Gracillaria) acidula (Meyr.); shoot gall maker, Hypolamprus (=Betousa) stylophora (Swinhoe); bark eating caterpillar, Indarbela tetraonis Moore, I. quadrinotata (Walker) and fruit borer, Deudorix (=Virachola) isocrates (Fab.) were recorded as major insect pests quantitatively at different phenology of Indian gooseberry. The peak population (46.60 and 44.80/ 5 shoots) of leaf roller was recorded in the last week of September (39th SMW), 2019 and 2020. The leaf roller population had positive significant correlation (r=0.44, 0.39, respectively during 2019 and 2020) with the minimum temperature. The maximum shoot gall maker damage of 6.60-7.40 per cent was observed in last week of August (35th SMW) to first week of September (36th SMW). The mean relative humidity had significantly positive correlation (r=0.57, 0.65) during both the years of investigation. The damage of bark eating caterpillar was observed at its peak (4.0-5.0/ 5 plants in 2019 and 2020) in first week of September. The bark eating caterpillar had significantly positive correlation (r=0.54, 0.61) during both the years with the mean relative humidity. The peak infestation of fruit borer was recorded to be 16.00 and 15.00 per cent in 2019 and 2020, respectively in the 38th SMW (3rd week of September). Due to the seasonal changes in any area the incidence of insect-pest also affects with availability of their suitable environmental conditions.','Succession, incidence, leaf roller, shoot gall maker, bark eating caterpillar, fruit borer Indian gooseberry, natural enemies, preying mantid and ladybird beetle','The leaf roller, Caloptilia (=Gracillaria) acidula (Meyr.); shoot gall maker, Hypolamprus (=Betousa) stylophora (Swinhoe); bark eating caterpillar, Indarbela tetraonis Moore and I. quadrinotata (Walker) fruit borer, Deudorix (=Virachola) isocrates (Fab.) were recorded as major insect pests quantitatively at different phenology of Indian gooseberry. \r\nThe peak population (46.60 and 44.80/ 5 shoots) of leaf roller was recorded in the last week of September (39th SMW) 2019 and 2020. The meteorological parameters during the peak population of the leaf roller exhibited 20.80-24.30°C minimum temperature, 32.80-36.90°C maximum temperature and 59.00-75.00 per cent mean relative humidity. The leaf roller population had positive significant correlation (r=0.44, 0.39, respectively during 2019 and 2020) with the minimum temperature.\r\nThe maximum shoot gall maker damage of 6.60-7.40 per cent in last week of August (35th SMW) to first week of September (36th SMW) when minimum temperature of 19.50-21.30°C, maximum temperature of 31.70-33.90°C and mean relative humidity of 83.00-84.00 per cent. The mean relative humidity had significantly positive correlation (r=0.57, 0.65) during both the years of investigation. \r\nThe damage of bark eating caterpillar was observed at its peak (4.0-5.0/ 5 plants in 2019 and 2020, respectively) in first week of September. The minimum temperature, maximum temperature, mean relative humidity and rainfall at peak period of infestation were registered to be 21.30-22.90°C, 31.70-33.80°C, 83.00-84.00 per cent, respectively. The bark eating caterpillar had significantly positive correlation (r=0.54, 0.61) during both the years with the mean relative humidity. \r\nThe peak infestation of fruit borer was recorded to be 16.00 and 15.00 per cent in 2019 and 2020, respectively in the 38th SMW (3rd week of September). The minimum temperature, maximum temperature and mean relative humidity at peak period of infestation were registered to be 21.50-23.30°C, 35.20-37.30°C and 63.00 per cent, respectively. \r\nThe natural enemies (parasites and predators) associated with the insect pests on Indian gooseberry were Trichogrmma chilonis; Tetrastichus sp.; green lacewing, Chrysoperala zastrowi arabica (Henry et al.); preying mantid, Mantis religiosa (L.); ladybird beetle, Adalia bipunctata (L.); yellow wasp, Polistes hebraeus (F.); assassin bug, Harpactor costalis (Stal); spider and black ant, Camponotus compressus (Fab.) but meagre in numbers. \r\n','-','A.L. Choudhary, K.C. Kumawat, Amar Chand and R.K. Nayak (2023). Succession and Seasonal Incidence of Major Insect Pests of Indian Gooseberry and their Relation with Meteorological Parameters. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 15(2): 880-886.'),(6204,'149','Effect of Cereal-Legume Intercropping, Tillage Configuration and Residue Intensity on Resource use Efficiency and Productivity','Akshay Kumar Yogi, Deepak Kumar Meena, Rakesh Dawar and Basta Ram Choudhary','Effect of Cereal-Legume Intercropping, Tillage Configuration and Residue Intensity on Resource use Efficiency and Productivity-Akshay Kumar Yogi-140.pdf','',1,'Agriculture faces challenges such as climate change, water scarcity, and soil degradation, leading to low crop yields and exacerbating poverty and food insecurity. Rainfed ecologies face the multivariate challenges of climate change and resource deficit. Additionally, factor productivity and yield tend to decline with time-lapse. To address these challenges and improve sustainable food security, efficient technologies for intensifying crop production are an urgent necessity.\r\nPresent study was planned to investigate the challenges of monoculture problems throughout the Indo Gangetic plains region. Further reduce soil fertility and nutrient status due to intensive tillage and cereal based monoculture require modification for an effective cropping system. This study investigated the effects of different tillage configurations, residue retention levels, and row ratios on the growth, yield, and economic benefits of intercropped cowpea and cluster bean with pearl millet. SPAD Value, intercropping indices were calculated. Data analysis was performed using SAS 9.1 software and R studio software version 4.02.\r\nThe results show that reduced evapotranspiration of intercropped crops results in better water use efficiency, and high land equivalent ratio. The study highlights the importance of improving water and radiation use for better performance of intercropping systems. Treatment with Zero tillage with 4-ton residue ha-1 resulted into higher productivity and resources use efficiency in term of yield, crop growth and land use efficiency. This study provide the significant positive effect of zero tillage (soil health, climate resilience) and legume intensification (sustainability with productivity) over conventional practices.\r\n','Intercropping, Legume intensification, Resource use efficiency, Zero tillage','Agriculture plays a crucial role in global food security but faces challenges such as climate change, water scarcity, and soil degradation, which can lead to low crop yields and exacerbate poverty and food insecurity. To address these challenges and improve sustainable food security, efficient technologies for intensifying crop production in a sustainable manner are needed. This study investigated the effects of different tillage configurations, residue retention levels, and row ratios on the growth, yield, and economic benefits of intercropped pearl millet-cowpea and millet-cluster bean crops. The results showed that intercropping led to reduced evapotranspiration and better water use efficiency. High land equivalent ratio (LER) indicated better utilization of water and radiation by the intercropped stands. Yield reductions were attributed to competition for nutrients, light, and moisture, with cowpea being more affected than the cereal crop. Treatment 4, with zero tillage and 60% residue retention, showed the best performance in terms of growth parameters and yield attributes. These findings suggest that intercropping can improve water and radiation use efficiency, but careful management is needed to minimize competition and maximize yield benefits.','-','Akshay Kumar Yogi, Deepak Kumar Meena, Rakesh Dawar and Basta Ram Choudhary (2023). Effect of Cereal-Legume Intercropping, Tillage Configuration and Residue Intensity on Resource use Efficiency and Productivity. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 15(2): 887-893.'),(6205,'149','Effect of Different Environmental Conditions on Biometric Parameters and Yield of Broccoli','Pooran Mal Meena, R. K. Aggarwal, Madhurjit Singh Rathore, Sanjay Kumar Attar, Sumit Barupal, Ramu Meena and Vinod Fogawat','Effect of Different Environmental Conditions on Biometric Parameters and Yield of Broccoli-Pooran Mal Meena-141.pdf','',1,'The present study entitled “Effect of environmental conditions on biometric parameters and yield of broccoli” was carried out at the Experimental farm of the Department of Environmental Science, Dr. Yashwant Singh Parmar University of Horticulture and Forestry, Nauni, Solan, Himachal Pradesh during Rabi 2021-22. In mid hills occurrence of fog is common, thus it is necessity to study the growth of broccoli under different environmental conditions as the yield potential of broccoli is more in the rabi season. The results revealed that treatment (T2M1I1) i.e., Mid-season transplanting (28th Oct) + Mulch + Irrigation recorded significantly higher on biometric parameters i.e., Biometric attributes i.e., Chlorophyll content (2.23 mg/g) and Leaf area index (5.10) showed significant highest values in treatment (T2M1I1) Micrometeorological parameter i.e., Evapotranspiration (2.48mm/day) was found in treatment (T2M1I1). Plant canopy relative humidity and Soil moisture were also recorded. Agroclimatic indices i.e., Crop phenology of 132 days were observed. Growing degree days of 140.10 days/hrs were accumulated in T2. Helio-thermal units of 7248.74 days/hours were observed in T2, Photo-thermal units of 10031.55 days/hrs were observed and, yield (10.44kg) per plot was observed in the treatment of T2M1I1. Treatment T2M1I1 is recommended for improving biometric attributes, micrometeorological parameters, agroclimatic indices, and yield attributes in Broccoli. Among different environmental conditions mulching and irrigation played an important role in the physiological and morphological characteristics of broccoli thus enhancing the crop yield.','Chlorophyll, evapotranspiration, heat indices, Growing Degree Day, Helio-thermal Unit, Thermal Use Efficiency, leaf area index','The present study revealed that 2nd date of sowing, mulching, and irrigation had a significant effect on the yield of broccoli (208q/ha). The crop transplanted on October 28 took a maximum of days to attain different phenological stages and accumulated the maximum number of growing days and heat units which were reduced with the subsequent delay in transplanting. The mulching and irrigation played an important role in the physiological and morphological characteristics of broccoli thus enhance the crop yield. Hence, treatment T2M1I1 is recommended for improving morphological characteristics, yield attributes and biometric attributes, under different environmental conditions in Broccoli.','-','Pooran Mal Meena, R. K. Aggarwal, Madhurjit Singh Rathore, Sanjay Kumar Attar, Sumit Barupal, Ramu Meena and Vinod Fogawat (2023). Effect of Different Environmental Conditions on Biometric Parameters and Yield of Broccoli. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 15(2): 894-908.'),(6206,'149','Deciphering of Popcorn (Zea mays var. everta) Heterosis for Early Maturity, Yield and Popping Expansion Volume Across Different Environments','Munnesh Kumar, Ashok Singhamsetti, Kartik Madankar and Pavan Devesh','Deciphering of Popcorn (Zea mays var. everta) Heterosis for Early Maturity, Yield and Popping Expansion Volume Across Different Environments-Munnesh Kumar-142.pdf','',1,'Maize (Zea mays L., 2n = 20), a valuable crop, comes from Mexico to Central Africa and is a cross-pollinated, monoecious, annual plant in the family Poaceae. According to modern concepts, heterosis is the bringing of favourable genes from two different parents into the progeny to overcome barriers and obtain a better genotype with better yield. WINPOP-3×HKIPC-7 cross can be used in developing early maturing lines and WINPOP-8×HKIPC-7, WINPOP-8×HKIPC-5 for heterotic combination of yield per plant, is useful in developing high-yield superior lines with good popping quality. The best heterotic combination of yield per plant was WINPOP-8×HKIPC-7, WINPOP-8×HKIPC-5 over standard checks, which can be further exploited in developing high yielding and popping quality.','Heterosis, Popcorn, Popping Volume, Early Maturity','The WINPOP-3×HKIPC-7 cross can be used in developing early maturing lines as this corss combination showed heterbleitosis and standard heterossis for days to 75% maturity, days to 50% anthesis, and days to 50% silking. ','-','Munnesh Kumar, Ashok Singhamsetti, Kartik Madankar and Pavan Devesh (2023). Deciphering of Popcorn (Zea mays var. everta) Heterosis for Early Maturity, Yield and Popping Expansion Volume Across Different Environments. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 15(2): 909-915.');
INSERT INTO `pdf_upload` VALUES (6207,'149','Health and Nutritional Status of Rural Women in Chikkballapur District ','K. Geetha, Geetha M. Yankanchi, Latha Rani, R., Sneha Shigihalli and Sunitha A. B.','Health and Nutritional Status of Rural Women in Chikkballapur District-K Geetha-144.pdf','',4,'Health and nutrition status of women is very important because the nutrition status of women is influenced to other family members. When mother have good health and nutrition status she can take care of other members of the family too. Considering the research need in the particular area the present study was undertaken to assess the nutritional status and dietary pattern of rural women of Shidlgatta taluk in Chikkballapur district. Questionnaire was used for data collection of rural women (n=200). A well structured questionnaire was framed to gather the information on socio economic status, somatic measurements and dietary intake of the subjects. Further BMI, WHR were used to assess the nutritional status. The results found that majority of the respondents belonged to middle age group and high school education. Mean anthropometric measurement of rural women was 155.60 cm of height, 58.30 kg of weight. As per the BMI standards, it was observed that 10 per cent of women were undernourished, 35.50 per cent of women were normal, and 10.50 per cent of women were obese. The mean nutrient intake of energy (1629 Kcal) was on par with RDA Protein (42.20 g), fibre (17.60 g), iron (14.80 mg) were less than RDA. The per cent adequacy for fat and calcium was found to be higher than recommended in subjects whereas remaining all other nutrients consumption was found inadequate. From the study we can conclude that rural women need to improve their nutritional status through incorporating protein, fiber and energy rich foods in their daily diet.','Nutritional status, Diet survey, Anthropometric measurement','This study on nutritional and dietary pattern of rural women results shows that protein, energy, fiber, iron and zinc is low when compared to RDA whereas consumption of fat and calcium is high when compared to recommended dietary allowances, with respect to nutrition adequacy calcium and fat was found to be higher than recommended in subjects whereas remaining all other nutrients consumption was found inadequate. In the present study, diets of women were nutrient deficient thereby affecting their physical working capacity and health ailments. ','-','K. Geetha, Geetha M. Yankanchi, Latha Rani, R., Sneha Shigihalli and Sunitha A. B. (2023). Health and Nutritional Status of Rural Women in Chikkballapur District. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 15(2): 923-928.'),(6208,'149','Effect of Organic, Inorganic and Biofertilizers on Growth and Yields of Mungbean','Anil Kapoor, Rohitashav Singh, Vijay Kumar Singh, Minakshi Serawat and Dinesh Kumar Vishwakarma ','Effect of Organic, Inorganic and Biofertilizers on Growth and Yields of Mungbean-Anil Kapoor-145.pdf','',4,'Feeding the ever increasing population of country with balanced nutritional requirements is big challenge. As population increases, the protein requirement of the country is increasing day by day. Another threat for agriculture production is depletion of soil health due to continuously use of only chemicals. To meet the concern demand we have to increase the production of protein rich crops specially pulses with appropriate nutrient management. Mungbean is the one of the major pulse grown in country. Keeping the challenges in mind to boost up the mungbean productivity with sustained soil health a field experiment for two year during Rabi season of 2018-19 and 2019-20 at Norman E. Borlaug Crop Research Centre, G. B. Pant University of Agriculture and Technology, Pantnagar, India. The experiment comprised of 18 treatment combinations with three inorganic fertilizers (75% RDF, 100% RDF and 125% RDF) and two organic manure (control and FYM 5 t/ha) and three biofertilizer treatments (Rhizobium, LNM-16 and Rhizobium + LNM-16) was laid out in Factorial Randomized Block Design with three replications. Application of 125% RDF was found better than 75% and 100% RDF by producing maximum plant population (278 and 271 000/ha), lowest mortality percentage (12.87% and 10.42%), maximum plant height at harvest (90.5 and 90.1 cm), DMA at 30 DAS, 60 DAS and at harvest, grain yield (1022 and 1019 kg ha-1) and stover yield (2916 and 2868 ka ha-1) during the year 2018-19 and 2019-20, respectively. Application of organic manure gave higher plant population (277 and 267 000/ha), lower mortality percentage (13.34% and 12.18%), maximum plant height at harvest (87.3 and 84.3 cm), grain yield (1052 and 1042 kg ha-1) and stover yield (2908 and 2844 ka ha-1) during the year 2018-19 and 2019-20, respectively. Inoculation of Rhizobium + LNM-16 was found superior to other’s by producing maximum plant population (280 and 271 000/ha), lowest mortality percentage (12.51% and 11.21%), maximum plant height at harvest (84.6 and 84.3 cm), grain yield (1059 and 1042 kg ha-1) and stover yield (2927 and 2833 ka ha-1) during the year 2018-19 and 2019-20, respectively. Results suggested suitable nutrient management practices of organic manures, inorganic fertilizers and biofertilizers would be an effective approach for improving growth and yield of mungbean.','Mungbean, Organic, Inorganic, Biofertilizers, Yield','As per results of experiment, we can conclude the application of 125% RDF, FYM @ 5t/ha and seed inoculation with combination of Rhizobium and LNM-16 provide the higher growth and yield of mungbean as compared to lower doses of RDF, NO FYM and seed inoculation with sole biofertilizers. ','-','Anil Kapoor, Rohitashav Singh, Vijay Kumar Singh, Minakshi Serawat and Dinesh Kumar Vishwakarma (2023). Effect of Organic, Inorganic and Biofertilizers on Growth and Yields of Mungbean. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 15(2): 929-937.'),(6209,'149','Exploitation of Heterosis for Yield and Yield Components in Wheat (Triticum aestivum L.)','Shubham Kumawat, Aarti Sharma, Arvind Kumar, Mayur Roshan Sahoo, Hemant Kumar Jaiswal and Sunita Choudhary ','Exploitation of Heterosis for Yield and Yield Components in Wheat (Triticum aestivum L.)-Shubham Kumawat-146.pdf','',4,'The yield of the semi-dwarf wheat varieties hits a plateau which can be due to the restricted exploitation of the gene pool. Heterosis breeding provides ways to overcome yield barriers. Therefore, the present study aimed to investigate heterosis for grain yield and its components in the F1 generation of wheat using Line × Tester analysis. A total of 79 genotypes, consisting of 22 parents (3 testers + 19 lines) and 57 crosses (F1s), were grown in a Randomized Block Design with three replications. The percent heterosis over mid-parent and better parent was calculated for yield and yield components. The majority of crosses exhibited significant positive average heterosis and heterobeltiosis for yield and important yield attributing traits, showing the dominant nature of genes with a positive effect. Additionally, several crosses showed promising heterotic behaviour with negative heterosis for maturity-related attributes, indicating the dominance of genes with negative effects for these traits. The hybrids Atilla × HUWL-1723 and HUW-234 × DBW were found to be superior hybrids selected for grain yield since these crosses displayed significant positive heterosis over both the better and mid-parent for grain yield.','Wheat, Heterosis, Heterobeltiosis, Line ×Tester, Yield, Dominance','The current study found that the majority of crosses had positive significant average heterosis and heterobeltiosis for yield and key yield attributing traits, implying the dominance nature of genes with a positive effect. Furthermore, a number of crosses displayed favourable heterotic behaviour with negative heterosis for maturity-related attributes, indicating that the genes with negative effects were dominant for these characters. Thus, it can be concluded that the hybrids namely Atilla × HUWL-1723 and HUW-234 × DBW-were found to be superior hybrids selected for grain yield since these crosses exhibited significant positive heterosis over both the better and mid parent for grain yield.','-','Shubham Kumawat, Aarti Sharma, Arvind Kumar, Mayur Roshan Sahoo, Hemant Kumar Jaiswal and Sunita Choudhary (2023). Exploitation of Heterosis for Yield and Yield Components in Wheat (Triticum aestivum L.). Biological Forum – An International Journal, 15(2): 938-943.'),(6210,'149','Does Gender Makes Difference in Visual Perception of Yoga Practitioners','Seulgi Lee and Paran Gowda','Does Gender Makes Difference in Visual Perception of Yoga Practitioners-Seulgi Lee-147.pdf','',4,'The purpose of the study is to investigate and find any gender difference between male and female member yoga practitioners in Visual Perception (VP).\r\nIn this study, we recruited hundred regular yoga practitioners (YP), consisting of 50 males and 50 females, with an average age of 20.8±2.81 years for males and 20.12±2.35 years for females from a Yoga university, Haridwar, India. This study employed a cross-sectional design with a single assessment of a visual perception by using VMPT4 manual. As may be seen from the findings that there is a 2.82% difference between the male and female visual perception mean values with plus or minus standard deviation values. In addition, we performed the ‘t’ test difference in the mean values with Cohen’s distance. Except for Visual closure ‘p’ value, the other four values are non-significant. There is a better Cohen’s ‘d’ values between male and female and its more in the case of spatial relationship values.\r\nWe conducted a study on whether gender affects visual perception abilities in yoga practitioners. The results of this study indicated that there was no difference in visual perception abilities between male and female yoga practitioners. There is a lack of research on gender differences in visual perception with the influence of yoga. This study is original, but the small sample size is a significant limitation. Therefore, we recommend increasing the sample size and attempting cross-cultural research in future studies to ensure high reliability.\r\n','Visual perception, yoga, gender, cognition, university students','The current studies suggest that there may be slight variations in visual perception and its 5 components with the practice of yoga. While gender differences in cognition and somato-sensation have been well-established, there is a lack of research on gender differences in visual perception with the influence of yoga. In vision experiments, sample sizes of participants are often small due to the large effect sizes. However, small samples are not ideal for testing gender differences. The limitation of these studies is the lack of a large sample size.','-','Seulgi Lee and Paran Gowda (2023). Does Gender Makes Difference in Visual Perception of Yoga Practitioners ? Biological Forum – An International Journal, 15(2): 944-947.'),(6211,'149','Microbial Population Characterization Associated with Effluents obtained from Seafood Processing Industries','S. Gini, S. Illanjiam, S. Priya Grace, C. Shanmugasundaram, T. Srinivasan, P. Nirmala, R.V. Prabu, K.N. Gayathri, S.R Sriram Kumar and A. Ganesh Kumar ','Microbial Population Characterization Associated with Effluents obtained from Seafood Processing Industries-S Gini-148.pdf','',4,'In this study, microorganisms were isolated and identified from seafood processing effluent from Chennai. Microorganisms were isolated after the samples were serially diluted, inoculated on Nutrient agar media and Sabouraud Dextrose agar, respectively. The spread plate technique was used for the isolation process. The bacterial isolates were described by Gram staining and identification by biochemical assays. The colony and morphology of the isolates were also noted. Wet mount technique with lacto phenol method was used to examine the fungal isolates. According to the results, nine bacterial and four fungal isolates from the effluent were found, with Pseudomonas species being the most prevalent. Staphylococcus aureus, Bacillus species, Micrococcus species, Salmonella species, Vibrio species, Escherichia coli, Klebsiella species, and Shigella species. The isolated and identified fungi are Aspergillus niger, Aspergillus fumigatus, Aspergillus flavus, Curvularia, Alternaria. The isolates also showed resistant to some antibiotics. These bacteria causes ill effects to humans, so this effluent should be treated properly and treated seafood processing effluent can be used for agricultural purposes. So the study will be helpful to identify and isolate the pathogenic microorganism and also used for the future generation.','Seafood processing Effluents, Bacteria, Fungi, Morphological, Biochemical, Antibiotic Sensitivity','In conclusion, the extensive use of antibiotics in the production and processing of seafood is clearly supported by the large microbial load in the effluent and their resistance to several common antibiotics. If discharged without being properly treated, effluents harboring resistant bacteria may pollute the receiving river and other natural water bodies. As it enters the food chain, seafood taken from contaminated waterways may act as passive carriers of resistance that can harm people. Hence, identifying the risk factors involved in the transmission and spread of drug-resistant bacteria may be aided by early detection, the identification of antibiotic resistance patterns, and the characterization of the isolates from a seafood processing industries. Hence, good waste management procedures in processing facilities would not only preserve seafood cleanliness but also safeguard the environment.','-','S. Gini, S. Illanjiam, S. Priya Grace, C. Shanmugasundaram, T. Srinivasan, P. Nirmala, R.V. Prabu, K.N. Gayathri, S.R Sriram Kumar and A. Ganesh Kumar (2023). Microbial Population Characterization Associated with Effluents obtained from Seafood Processing Industries. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 15(2): 948-953.'),(6212,'149','Gene Pyramiding to Increase the Sustainability of Vegetables under Biotic and Abiotic Stresses','Manish Chauhan, Shivangi Negi, Shilpa and Priyanka Bijalwan ','Gene Pyramiding to Increase the Sustainability of Vegetables under Biotic and Abiotic Stresses-Manish Chauhan-149.pdf','',4,'Numerous ecological factors, including drought, extreme temperatures, too much salt, parasitic diseases and insect pest infestation, endanger sustainable vegetable production. Future vegetable production in many nations may be negatively impacted by these difficult environmental factors. In modernized agriculture, conventional crop-breeding techniques are insufficient on their own to sustainably supply the rising population\'s food need. The advancement of molecular genetics and associated technologies is a promising method for selecting new crop species. Gene pyramiding using marker-assisted selection (MAS) and other strategies have been applied to produce resilient/tolerant lines with high precision and rapid growth for agricultural sustainability. Gene stacking has not been used to its full potential in the majority of the major farmed crops for the development of biotic stress tolerance and quality enhancement. The focus of this review is on gene pyramiding techniques that are successfully used in contemporary agriculture to increase crop tolerance to abiotic and biotic stresses for long-term crop improvement. Overall, gene pyramiding has the potential to revolutionize vegetable production by enhancing crop quality, productivity and sustainability.','Gene pyramiding, Marker Assisted Selection, Crop breeding, Vegetable, Stresses','A key technique for crop improvement is gene pyramiding. In order to have a reasonable chance of obtaining the desired genotype, breeders must take into account the minimum population size that must be evaluated when using pyramiding. By lowering the number of generations that breeders must test to make sure they have the desired gene combination, molecular marker genotyping can speed up the gene pyramiding process.','-','Manish Chauhan, Shivangi Negi, Shilpa and Priyanka Bijalwan (2023). Gene Pyramiding to Increase the Sustainability of Vegetables under Biotic and Abiotic Stresses. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 15(2): 954-960.'),(6213,'112','Management of chickpea wilt pathogen Fusarium oxysporum f. sp. ciceris by Trichoderma, Pseudomonas and Bacillus under in vitro','Mudasser Ahmed Khan and T. Yella Goud','316 Management of chickpea wilt pathogen Fusarium oxysporum f. sp. ciceris by Trichoderma, Pseudomonas and Bacillus under in vitro-Mudasser Ahmed Khan-316.pdf','',1,'Chick pea (Cicer arietinum L.) is one of the leading legume crops, which contributes 18% of the worlds grain legume production, it serves as an important dietary protein source. Since last two decades, due to several biotic and abiotic constraints reduction in the cropping area and production was observed. Among the different biotic constraints crop production was majorly affected with vascular wilt disease caused by fungus Fusarium oxysporum f. sp. ciceris. The potential use as biocontrol agents against economically important soil borne plant pathogens with protective activity has been highlighted in recent decades as effective alternative to chemical fungicides. In the present investigation, the inhibition action of four antagonists Trichoderma spp. (Th-1 and Tv-1), P. fluorescens (Pf-1) and B. subtilis (Bs-1) was evaluated against the radial growth of F. oxysporum f. sp. ciceris was studied under in vitro conditions. The culture filtrates of all the four tested bio control agents were proved to be inhibitory to the pathogen. Among the two different Trichoderma spp. antagonists the culture filtrate of Th-8 was found effective with 23.70% of growth inhibition, followed by Tv-1 with 19.26% at 5 per cent concentration in comparison with antagonists Pf-1 and Bs-1.','Chick pea, pathogen, Fusarium oxysporum f. sp. ciceris, vascular wilt disease','The use of antagonistic organisms for the management of chickpea Fusarium wilt disease causing pathogen F. oxysporum f. sp. ciceris is a effective and relatively safer way over the use of chemical fungicides, which affect the human health and also pollute ecosystem. It is observed from our results, that the T. viride and T. harzianum are found effective strains to promote the chickpea plant growth in F. oxysporum f. sp. ciceris challenged conditions, these strains may be commercialize as potential biocontrol agent only after a large filed trials. ','-','Mudasser Ahmed Khan and T. Yella Goud (2022). Management of chickpea wilt pathogen Fusarium oxysporum f. sp. ciceris by Trichoderma, Pseudomonas and Bacillus under in vitro. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 14(1): 1825-1828.'),(6214,'149','Influence of Physical Characters of Different Grafted Scion on the Rootstock of Mango (Mangifera indica L.) under Shade Net Condition of Prayagraj Region','Vinay Joseph Silas, V.M. Prasad, Vijay Rajwade and Saket Mishra','Influence of Physical Characters of Different Grafted Scion on the Rootstock of Mango (Mangifera indica L.) under Shade Net Condition of Prayagraj Region-Vinay Joseph Silas-150.pdf','',4,'The experiment was conducted during the year 2019-20 & 2021-22, at Department of Horticulture, Naini Agricultural Institute, SHUATS, Prayagraj with the object to study the success and initial growth performance of grafts of some important varieties of mango under net house condition. The experiment consists of ten different varieties of mango Amrapali, Kishan Bhog, Gulabkhas, Kesar, Totapuri, Dasheri, Malgoa, Himsagar, Nisar Pasand & Bombay Green as treatments and replicated thrice in Completely Randomized Design (CRD). The results of present investigation clearly showed that, grafts of different mango varieties studied had a significant influence on the maximum values of growth parameters like Graft Diameter (23.80 mm), scion diameter (17.35 mm), rootstock diameter (20.06 mm), length of grafted plant (88.71 cm), Days to sprout (14.25), Number of leaves (21.50), survival percentage at 150 DAG (90.00%) and rootstock length (65.72cm ) were recorded maximum in the graft of variety Dasheri while Stionic ratio was found best in the graft of variety Gulabkhas (0.90), Scion length (25.14cm ) was found best in the graft of variety Malgoa and maximum leaf area (307.43 cm2) was found in kesar.','Mango, Rootstock, Scion, Grafting, Monoembryonic','The present investigation, can be concluded that the performance of grafts of Dasheri, Malgoa, Nisar Pasand & Amrapali varieties was found superior at nursery stage as grafts of these varieties have required comparatively well survival percentage. The growth parameters like graft diameter and shoot: root ratio were found maximum in these varieties. The root and biomass characters were also significantly superior in grafts of said varieties. Hence, it can be suggested that, for large scale multiplication of mango plants through wedge grafting, the scion wood of Dasheri, Malgoa, Amrapali & Nisar Pasand varieties may be used, as grafts of these varieties have recorded maximum success and higher values of growth parameters. ','-','Vinay Joseph Silas, V.M. Prasad, Vijay Rajwade and Saket Mishra (2023). Influence of Physical Characters of Different Grafted Scion on the Rootstock of Mango (Mangifera indica L.) under Shade Net Condition of Prayagraj Region. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 15(2): 961-964.'),(6215,'149','Isolation and Characterization of Surface Fungi from Local Fruits of Meghalaya, India','Dhritiman Chanda, G.D. Sharma and Madhumita Dey','Isolation and Characterization of Surface Fungi from Local Fruits of Meghalaya, India-Dhritiman Chanda-151.pdf','',4,'The diverse group of microbial communities especially fungi and bacteria colonize fruit surfaces are closely associated with the destruction of the quality, yield and food value. There are various environmental factors like moisture, temperature and humidity which are directly influence the occurrence of various surface fungi to infect the fruits. The present study was determined to study and characterize the diversity of surface fungi from some local fruits of Meghalaya. Six important types of fresh fruits and spoilt fruits were collected on the basis of highest consumption by the local people of Ri-Bhoi district, Meghalaya which include peach (Prunus persica), passion fruit (Passiflora nepalensis), pineapple (Ananas comosus), jackfruit (Artocarpus heterophyllus), pear (Pyrus communis), amla (Emblica officinalis). A total of eight fungal genera were identified which showed severe infection on the selected fruit surface. High temperature, high relative humidity and moisture can cause fungi to be present on the surface of fruits. Therefore, care must be taken to minimize the occurrence the occurrence of these disease for healthy consumption by the native people of this region. This preliminary data help us to identify various surface fungi associated with contaminated fruits thereby to provide suggestive approaches to the local people for safety consumption of these indigenous fruits.','Surface fungi, mycotoxins, secondary metabolites, relative abundance,bio-control agents','The present study was carried out to isolate and characterize the pathogenic fungi growing in local fruits which showed a significant occurrence of various pathogenic fungi. Due to high relative humidity and favorable conditions, the isolated fungi strains showed significant value of relative abundance and positive amylase activity and cellulose test. Therefore, there is a need to keep the fruits in a good place of storage condition for proper care to get rid of the attack of various pathogenic fungi which can lead to various human illness. Care should also be taken to consume the fruits with proper scientific knowledge by knowing the pathogenic fungi which may contaminate and thereby spoiled the fruits.\r\nThus, present work help us to identify and estimate the abundance of surface fungi especially in the fruits growing in Meghalaya on basis of which future preservation. A suggestive approach must be carried out among the local people for the healthy consumption of these fruitsbased on proper scientific preservation methods and thereby to maintain the quality of fruits. The future work can be extended for molecular characterisation of the fungi and to estimate the percentage of pathogenesis with control measures for safety consumption and socio-economic aspects of this region. \r\n','-','Dhritiman Chanda, G.D. Sharma and Madhumita Dey (2023). Isolation and Characterization of Surface Fungi from Local Fruits of Meghalaya, India. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 15(2): 965-971.'),(6216,'149','A Productive Breeding Programme on Identifying the Elite Combiners for Early Vigour and Productivity Related Traits in identified Local Landraces of rabi sorghum [Sorghum bicolor (L.) Moench]','Prashant Kariyannanavar, S.T. Kajjidoni, P.V. Patil, R.M. Kachapur and L.K. Verma','A Productive Breeding Programme on Identifying the Elite Combiners for Early Vigour and Productivity Related Traits in identified Local Landraces of rabi sorghum [Sorghum bicolor-Prashant Kariyannanavar-152.pdf','',4,'Early vigor in sorghum [Sorghum bicolor (L.) Moench] is important for improving stand establishment of the crop, particularly in rainfed regions. Hence present study emphasis on combining ability analysis for early vigour and productivity related traits of 48 hybrids (8 Lines × 6 Testers) revealed that all the traits under study including early vigour were under non-additive genetic control. Among parents, Kodmurkhi local was the best general combiner for panicle breadth, panicle weight, grain yield per plant and number of leaves per plant along with CSV- 216R as best general combiner for early vigour traits as well as productivity related traits this signified positive response of early vigour to the productive related traits. The crosses CSV-216R × IS-4631 and SPV-2333 × RSLG-23 were good specific combiners for grain yield per plant, panicle weight and 100 seed weight, interestingly, the above-mentioned cross CSV-216R × IS-4631 was also the good specific combiner for early vigour traits viz., root collar diameter, plant height and leaf width. These elite crosses can be advanced further to isolate the transgressive seggregants for nutritional quality traits as crosses bearing the blood from the elite landraces. Further, superior early vigour hybrids will be bone for shoot fly resistance coupled with quality traits. ','Landraces, early vigour, combining ability','The current study revealed that the Kodmurkhi local was the best general combiner for panicle breadth, panicle weight, and grain yield per plant along with number of leaves per plant. Similarly, CSV-216R was the best general combiners for plant height, panicle length, root collar diameter, plant height at 60 days, number of leaves and leaf width this signified positive correlation between early vigour traits and productivity related traits. Further these lines can be used as parent in hybridisation programme and to predict the hybrid performance at early stage of the crop (Table 5 and 6). Among the crosses, Kodmurkhi Local × RSLG-23, CSV-216R × IS-4631, Kodmurkhi Local × EC-8, Lakmapur Local × EC-8, SPV-2333 × RSLG-23, and SPV-2217 × RSLG-23 exhibiting significant sca effects, preferred grain shape (Round), grain color (yellow) and per se performance for the grain yield per plant can be advanced further to isolate transgressive segregants for grain yield and quality traits with advance of early vigour. ','-','Prashant Kariyannanavar, S.T. Kajjidoni, P.V. Patil, R.M. Kachapur and L.K. Verma (2023). A Productive Breeding Programme on Identifying the Elite Combiners for Early Vigour and Productivity Related Traits in identified Local Landraces of rabi sorghum [Sorghum bicolor (L.) Moench]. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 15(2): 972-976.'),(6217,'149','Effect of Super Absorbent Polymer with various Watering Intervals on Seedling Growth of Swietenia mahagoni (L.) Jacq.','Satyanidhi S., Manjappa, K., Koppad A.G. and Vasudeva R.','Effect of Super Absorbent Polymer with various Watering Intervals on Seedling Growth of Swietenia mahagoni (L.) Jacq.-Satyanidhi S-153.pdf','',4,'An experiment was conducted at College of Forestry, Sirsi to know the effect of SAP with various watering intervals on seedling growth of Swietenia mahagoni in nursery. The experiment was laid out in factorial completely randomized design with six levels of SAP (0, 0.5, 1.0, 2.0, 3.0 and 4.0 g per seedling) and four watering intervals (2, 4, 6 and 8 days) and replicates three times. Results showed that SAP, watering intervals and their interactions had a significant effect on growth parameters of Swietenia mahagoni in nursery. At 200 days of observation, the higher seedling height (25.7 cm), collar diameter (5.37 mm), number of leaves per plant (16.2), root dry weight (11.87 g), shoot dry weight (19.46 g) and root to shoot ratio (0.57) were recorded at 4 g of SAP per seedling which was on par with 3 g per seedling. Significantly lowest values were observed at control. For watering intervals, maximum seedling growth parameters were recorded at 2 days watering interval which were found on par with 4 and 6 days interval. Significantly lowest values were observed at 8 days interval. It clearly shows healthy seedlings of Swietenia mahagoni can be raised by application of SAP @ 3 g per seedling + 6 days watering interval. Under water scarcity situations, watering can also be applied at 8 days interval if SAP is applied at 4 g per seedling.','Swietenia mahagoni, Super Absorbent Polymer, growth parameters','SAP has more water absorption capacity in the soil and slowly desorbs to the root zone of plants whenever there is lack of moisture content in soil. It can be concluded from the data that healthy seedlings of Swietenia mahagoni can be raised by application of SAP @ 3 g per seedling + 6 days watering interval. Under water scarcity situations, watering can also be applied at 8 days interval if SAP is applied at 4 g per seedling without compromising much on quality and growth of seedlings.','-','Satyanidhi S., Manjappa, K., Koppad A.G. and Vasudeva R. (2023). Effect of Super Absorbent Polymer with various Watering Intervals on Seedling Growth of Swietenia mahagoni (L.) Jacq. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 15(2): 977-980.'),(6218,'149','Analysis of Bioactive Compounds in Methanolic Leaf Extract of Diospyros melanoxylon Roxb. Challenged with AM Fungi by Liquid Chromatography Mass Spectrometry (LC-MS) Technique','S. Syam Prasad, K. Ashok Kumar and P.R. Sushama','Analysis of Bioactive Compounds in Methanolic Leaf Extract of Diospyros melanoxylon Roxb. Challenged with AM Fungi by Liquid Chromatography Mass Spectrometry (LC-MS) Technique-PR Sushama-154.pdf','',4,'Plants are abundant sources of a variety of bioactive phytochemicals that have a variety of biological impacts. The protection of human health and benefit come from the screening of phytochemical substances. Diospyros melanoxylon (Roxb.), a member of the Ebenaceae family, is a significant commercial, multipurpose, and medical plant utilized in a variety of circumstances. The primary goal of the current experiment was to examine the phytochemical substances in the leaves of the D. melanoxylon challenged with AM fungi using liquid chromatography and mass spectrometry, (LC–MS). Plant challenged with AM fungi leaves samples were analyzed with LC-MS analysis and 27 different phytochemical substances with different molecular weight were found. The primary bioactive substances were gallic acid, ursolic acid, oleanolic acid and betulinic acid (Rt-1.07, 23.82, 23.70 and 24.44). Analysis of the mass spectra has allowed for the identification of the chemicals. The use of D. melanoxylon leaves for treating a number of ailments is confirmed by the presence of several bioactive chemicals with diverse chemical structures. Hence, it is claimed that plant is crucial for pharmaceuticals. Moreover, it might be necessary to isolate specific bioactive substances in order to discover a novel medicine.','Diospyros melanoxylon, Leaves, LC–MS, Phytochemicals, Methanol','The compounds identified in the D. melanoxylon leaves extract most have medicinal properties and some have antimicrobial activities. Present study declared that the 27 different phytochemical compounds were identified as the phenolics, flavonoids, terpenoids, fatty acids and some unknown compounds having several enormous applications. Hence it can be used for further processing like encapsulation.','-','S. Syam Prasad, K. Ashok Kumar and P.R. Sushama (2023). Analysis of Bioactive Compounds in Methanolic Leaf Extract of Diospyros melanoxylon Roxb. Challenged with AM Fungi by Liquid Chromatography Mass Spectrometry (LC-MS) Technique. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 15(2): 981-989.'),(6219,'149','Comparative Study of the Cytotoxic Effects of Raw Aloe vera Gel Extract on the Root Tip Cells of Allium cepa and Allium sativum','Rafia Farooquee and Dipankar Dutta','Comparative Study of the Cytotoxic Effects of Raw Aloe vera Gel Extract on the Root Tip Cells of Allium cepa and Allium sativum-Dipankar Dutta-155.pdf','',4,'The Aloe vera plant is a succulent plant and its leaf is widely used in the field of cosmetic, Ayurvedic, Homeopathic Allopathic, as well as in food industry. The present study has been carried out to know about the cytotoxic effect of raw A. vera gel extract on the root tip cells of both Allium cepa (Onion) and A. sativum (Garlic). Three different concentrations of raw A. vera gel extract (i.e., 20%, 40% and 60%) were prepared for the experiment. The prepared microscopic slides were observed under a microscope. By summarizing the results using Analysis of Variance (ANOVA) it has been observed that the effect of 20%, 40% and 60% A. vera extract for the exposure of 24 hours on onion is higher than the garlic. Thus, the results of this study indicates that the raw A. vera gel extract exhibits some cytotoxic effect on both the root tip cells of A. cepa and A. sativum, but the effect of the raw gel extract is higher on onion root tip cells. Aloe vera has many beneficial effects and therefore, it was the most challenging part to establish its cytotoxic effect in terms of mitotic inhibition. Thus, we can conclude that the raw A. vera gel should not be consumed as it caused mitotic inhibition in both onion and garlic root tip cells.','Aloe vera, Cytotoxic, Allium cepa, Allium sativum, Mitotic inhibition, Mitotic Index','The result of this study indicates that the raw Aloe vera gel extract exhibits some cytogenetic effect on both the root tip cells of onion (Allium cepa) and garlic (A. sativum), but the effect of raw A. vera gel extract on the root tip cells of onion is much higher than the root tip cells. Thus, by comparing the results obtained during this scientific investigation we can conclude that the effect of raw A. vera gel extract is higher in onion root tip cells than garlic root tip cells. Thus, we can say that onion is very much susceptible than garlic. From this scientific investigation we can also conclude that the raw A. vera gel should not be consumed as it causes mitotic inhibition in both garlic and onion root tip cells. A. vera gel also causes various mutagenic effects in some animals like in rats as mentioned by various researchers. So, the A. vera gel should be consumed after processing and not as raw product.','-','Rafia Farooquee and Dipankar Dutta (2023). Comparative Study of the Cytotoxic Effects of Raw Aloe vera Gel Extract on the Root Tip Cells of Allium cepa and Allium sativum. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 15(2): 990-1002.'),(6220,'149','Relational Analysis of Awareness Regarding Health and Hygiene Apropos Menstruation among Women in Bihar','Diksha Srivastava, Arunima Kumari and Sudhanand Prasad Lal','Relational-Analysis-of-Awareness-Regarding-Health-and-Hygiene-Apropos-Menstruation-Among-Women-in-Bihar-Sudhanand-Prasad-Lal-156.pdf','',4,'Health is a condition of well-being in which the body\'s and mind\'s parts are in harmony and proper balance with one another and in order to preserve and enhance one\'s physical and mental health, one must practice hygiene. In the present research, done in the purposively chosen Muzaffarpur district of Bihar, explores the relationship between socio-economic background and awareness regarding health and hygiene (including menstrual hygiene). Two blocks from the district, one village from each block, and 40 respondents from each village (total of 80 respondents) were selected. With the use of a semi-structured interview schedule, data were gathered by individually interviewing the respondents. Pearson’s product-moment correlation coefficient (r) was used to explore the relational analysis of awareness regarding health and hygiene. Most of the respondents found a medium awareness level regarding health and hygiene which was 56.25%. Correlation analysis found significant for variables as like age were negatively correlated and significant at 1% level with Correlation coefficient (r) -0.430. Similarly, religion and Aware PMBJP were positively correlated and significant at 5% level with Correlation coefficient (r) 0.231 and 0.241 respectively. Most of the respondents found a medium awareness level regarding health and hygiene which was 56.25% and to increase it, people should be more aware and sensitized.','Awareness, Correlation analysis, Health, Hygiene, Menstruation','In this study, most of the respondents have a medium awareness level regarding health and hygiene, (56.25%) respondents said that they were somehow aware of the health and hygiene maintaining procedures, thus come under medium awareness level while (29%) of respondents having awareness level and (15%) respondents possessed a high level of awareness. The findings of correlation analysis between dependent (Awareness regarding health and hygiene) and independent variables have been summarized as- out of a total 13 variables, 7 variables were found positively correlated and 1 variable found negatively correlated with awareness regarding health and hygiene. Variables as like age were negatively correlated and significant at 1% level with a Correlation coefficient (r) -0.430. Similarly, religion and Aware PMBJP were positively correlated and significant at 5% level with Correlation coefficient (r) 0.231 and 0.241 respectively. Likewise, education, profession, mass media exposure, nutrition, & annual income were positively correlated and significant at 1 percent level with Correlation coefficient (r) 0.555, 0.632, 0.636, 0.439 and 0.727 found respectively. Left 5 variables like marital status, family type, family size, and number of females were found negatively associated with the awareness regarding health and hygiene; although their associations were also non-significant. This indicates that in order to boost respondents\' awareness, their level of knowledge must be raised.','-','Diksha Srivastava, Arunima Kumari and Sudhanand Prasad Lal (2023). Relational Analysis of Awareness Regarding Health and Hygiene Apropos Menstruation among Women in Bihar. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 15(2): 1003-1007.'),(6221,'149','Characterization of Black Sesame (Sesamum indicum L.) Genotypes through Chemical Tests','J.G. Savaliya, C.A. Babariya, M.R. Prajapati, M.J. Jadav and R.B. Mori ','Characterization-of-Black-Sesame-(Sesamum-indicum-L.)-Genotypes-through-Chemical-Tests-JG-Savaliya-143.pdf','',1,'A knowledge of different genotype is a prerequisite for any successful improvement programme. A study was conducted to characterize 40 black sesame genotypes based on the chemical tests during the summer of 2020 at the Department of Seed Science and Technology, Junagadh Agricultural University. For the purpose of discriminating the genotypes, the seeds were subjected to the NaOH, KOH, seedling growth response to GA3, and 2, 4-D test. The genotypes were divided into three colour categories based on the seed coloration with NaOH: dark brown (12 genotypes), light brown (11 genotypes), and brown (7 genotypes). Genotypes were divided into four categories based on the colour of the solution caused by peroxidase activity: brown (15 genotypes), light brown (9 genotypes), no change (4 genotypes), and dark brown (2 genotypes). None of the examined sesame genotypes could be distinguished using the KOH and NaOH tests. So, this study is helpful for easy identification of genotype based on chemical test which are negate cumbersome morphological identification. ','Black sesame, Characterization, Chemical test','It can be said that a crucial factor in any programme for producing seeds is the evaluation of genetic purity. Thus, methods for determining genetic purity and characterising varieties must be made simple and trustworthy. The DUS test, seed production programme, and genetic purity testing could all benefit from the identified morphological traits of wheat genotypes. The outcome of a chemical test is helpful for both classifying and identifying wheat genotypes as well as for determining genetic purity.','-','J.G. Savaliya, C.A. Babariya, M.R. Prajapati, M.J. Jadav and R.B. Mori (2023). Characterization of Black Sesame (Sesamum indicum L.) Genotypes through Chemical Tests. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 15(2): 916-922.'),(6222,'149','Health and Nutritional Status of Rural Women in Chikkballapur District ','K. Geetha, Geetha M. Yankanchi, Latha Rani, R., Sneha Shigihalli and Sunitha A. B. ','Health and Nutritional Status of Rural Women in Chikkballapur District-K Geetha-144.pdf','',1,'Health and nutrition status of women is very important because the nutrition status of women is influenced to other family members. When mother have good health and nutrition status she can take care of other members of the family too. Considering the research need in the particular area the present study was undertaken to assess the nutritional status and dietary pattern of rural women of Shidlgatta taluk in Chikkballapur district. Questionnaire was used for data collection of rural women (n=200). A well structured questionnaire was framed to gather the information on socio economic status, somatic measurements and dietary intake of the subjects. Further BMI, WHR were used to assess the nutritional status. The results found that majority of the respondents belonged to middle age group and high school education. Mean anthropometric measurement of rural women was 155.60 cm of height, 58.30 kg of weight. As per the BMI standards, it was observed that 10 per cent of women were undernourished, 35.50 per cent of women were normal, and 10.50 per cent of women were obese. The mean nutrient intake of energy (1629 Kcal) was on par with RDA Protein (42.20 g), fibre (17.60 g), iron (14.80 mg) were less than RDA. The per cent adequacy for fat and calcium was found to be higher than recommended in subjects whereas remaining all other nutrients consumption was found inadequate. From the study we can conclude that rural women need to improve their nutritional status through incorporating protein, fiber and energy rich foods in their daily diet.','Nutritional status, Diet survey, Anthropometric measurement','This study on nutritional and dietary pattern of rural women results shows that protein, energy, fiber, iron and zinc is low when compared to RDA whereas consumption of fat and calcium is high when compared to recommended dietary allowances, with respect to nutrition adequacy calcium and fat was found to be higher than recommended in subjects whereas remaining all other nutrients consumption was found inadequate. In the present study, diets of women were nutrient deficient thereby affecting their physical working capacity and health ailments. ','-','K. Geetha, Geetha M. Yankanchi, Latha Rani, R., Sneha Shigihalli and Sunitha A. B. (2023). Health and Nutritional Status of Rural Women in Chikkballapur District. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 15(2): 923-928.'),(6223,'149','Effect of Organic, Inorganic and Biofertilizers on Growth and Yields of Mungbean','Anil Kapoor, Rohitashav Singh, Vijay Kumar Singh, Minakshi Serawat and Dinesh Kumar Vishwakarma ','Effect-of-Organic,-Inorganic-and-Biofertilizers-on-Growth-and-Yields-of-Mungbean-Anil Kapoor-145.pdf','',1,'Feeding the ever increasing population of country with balanced nutritional requirements is big challenge. As population increases, the protein requirement of the country is increasing day by day. Another threat for agriculture production is depletion of soil health due to continuously use of only chemicals. To meet the concern demand we have to increase the production of protein rich crops specially pulses with appropriate nutrient management. Mungbean is the one of the major pulse grown in country. Keeping the challenges in mind to boost up the mungbean productivity with sustained soil health a field experiment for two year during Rabi season of 2018-19 and 2019-20 at Norman E. Borlaug Crop Research Centre, G. B. Pant University of Agriculture and Technology, Pantnagar, India. The experiment comprised of 18 treatment combinations with three inorganic fertilizers (75% RDF, 100% RDF and 125% RDF) and two organic manure (control and FYM 5 t/ha) and three biofertilizer treatments (Rhizobium, LNM-16 and Rhizobium + LNM-16) was laid out in Factorial Randomized Block Design with three replications. Application of 125% RDF was found better than 75% and 100% RDF by producing maximum plant population (278 and 271 000/ha), lowest mortality percentage (12.87% and 10.42%), maximum plant height at harvest (90.5 and 90.1 cm), DMA at 30 DAS, 60 DAS and at harvest, grain yield (1022 and 1019 kg ha-1) and stover yield (2916 and 2868 ka ha-1) during the year 2018-19 and 2019-20, respectively. Application of organic manure gave higher plant population (277 and 267 000/ha), lower mortality percentage (13.34% and 12.18%), maximum plant height at harvest (87.3 and 84.3 cm), grain yield (1052 and 1042 kg ha-1) and stover yield (2908 and 2844 ka ha-1) during the year 2018-19 and 2019-20, respectively. Inoculation of Rhizobium + LNM-16 was found superior to other’s by producing maximum plant population (280 and 271 000/ha), lowest mortality percentage (12.51% and 11.21%), maximum plant height at harvest (84.6 and 84.3 cm), grain yield (1059 and 1042 kg ha-1) and stover yield (2927 and 2833 ka ha-1) during the year 2018-19 and 2019-20, respectively. Results suggested suitable nutrient management practices of organic manures, inorganic fertilizers and biofertilizers would be an effective approach for improving growth and yield of mungbean.','Mungbean, Organic, Inorganic, Biofertilizers, Yield','As per results of experiment, we can conclude the application of 125% RDF, FYM @ 5t/ha and seed inoculation with combination of Rhizobium and LNM-16 provide the higher growth and yield of mungbean as compared to lower doses of RDF, NO FYM and seed inoculation with sole biofertilizers. ','-','Anil Kapoor, Rohitashav Singh, Vijay Kumar Singh, Minakshi Serawat and Dinesh Kumar Vishwakarma (2023). Effect of Organic, Inorganic and Biofertilizers on Growth and Yields of Mungbean. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 15(2): 929-937.'),(6224,'149','Exploitation of Heterosis for Yield and Yield Components in Wheat (Triticum aestivum L.)','Shubham Kumawat, Aarti Sharma, Arvind Kumar, Mayur Roshan Sahoo, Hemant Kumar Jaiswal and Sunita Choudhary ','Exploitation-of-Heterosis-for-Yield-and-Yield-Components-in-Wheat-(Triticum-aestivum-L.)-Shubham-Kumawat-146.pdf','',1,'The yield of the semi-dwarf wheat varieties hits a plateau which can be due to the restricted exploitation of the gene pool. Heterosis breeding provides ways to overcome yield barriers. Therefore, the present study aimed to investigate heterosis for grain yield and its components in the F1 generation of wheat using Line × Tester analysis. A total of 79 genotypes, consisting of 22 parents (3 testers + 19 lines) and 57 crosses (F1s), were grown in a Randomized Block Design with three replications. The percent heterosis over mid-parent and better parent was calculated for yield and yield components. The majority of crosses exhibited significant positive average heterosis and heterobeltiosis for yield and important yield attributing traits, showing the dominant nature of genes with a positive effect. Additionally, several crosses showed promising heterotic behaviour with negative heterosis for maturity-related attributes, indicating the dominance of genes with negative effects for these traits. The hybrids Atilla × HUWL-1723 and HUW-234 × DBW were found to be superior hybrids selected for grain yield since these crosses displayed significant positive heterosis over both the better and mid-parent for grain yield.','Wheat, Heterosis, Heterobeltiosis, Line ×Tester, Yield, Dominance','The current study found that the majority of crosses had positive significant average heterosis and heterobeltiosis for yield and key yield attributing traits, implying the dominance nature of genes with a positive effect. Furthermore, a number of crosses displayed favourable heterotic behaviour with negative heterosis for maturity-related attributes, indicating that the genes with negative effects were dominant for these characters. Thus, it can be concluded that the hybrids namely Atilla × HUWL-1723 and HUW-234 × DBW-were found to be superior hybrids selected for grain yield since these crosses exhibited significant positive heterosis over both the better and mid parent for grain yield.','-','Shubham Kumawat, Aarti Sharma, Arvind Kumar, Mayur Roshan Sahoo, Hemant Kumar Jaiswal and Sunita Choudhary (2023). Exploitation of Heterosis for Yield and Yield Components in Wheat (Triticum aestivum L.). Biological Forum – An International Journal, 15(2): 938-943.'),(6225,'149','Does Gender Makes Difference in Visual Perception of Yoga Practitioners','Seulgi Lee and Paran Gowda ','Does Gender Makes Difference in Visual Perception of Yoga Practitioners-Seulgi Lee-147.pdf','',1,'The purpose of the study is to investigate and find any gender difference between male and female member yoga practitioners in Visual Perception (VP).\r\nIn this study, we recruited hundred regular yoga practitioners (YP), consisting of 50 males and 50 females, with an average age of 20.8±2.81 years for males and 20.12±2.35 years for females from a Yoga university, Haridwar, India. This study employed a cross-sectional design with a single assessment of a visual perception by using VMPT4 manual. As may be seen from the findings that there is a 2.82% difference between the male and female visual perception mean values with plus or minus standard deviation values. In addition, we performed the ‘t’ test difference in the mean values with Cohen’s distance. Except for Visual closure ‘p’ value, the other four values are non-significant. There is a better Cohen’s ‘d’ values between male and female and its more in the case of spatial relationship values.\r\nWe conducted a study on whether gender affects visual perception abilities in yoga practitioners. The results of this study indicated that there was no difference in visual perception abilities between male and female yoga practitioners. There is a lack of research on gender differences in visual perception with the influence of yoga. This study is original, but the small sample size is a significant limitation. Therefore, we recommend increasing the sample size and attempting cross-cultural research in future studies to ensure high reliability.\r\n','Visual perception, yoga, gender, cognition, university students','The current studies suggest that there may be slight variations in visual perception and its 5 components with the practice of yoga. While gender differences in cognition and somato-sensation have been well-established, there is a lack of research on gender differences in visual perception with the influence of yoga. In vision experiments, sample sizes of participants are often small due to the large effect sizes. However, small samples are not ideal for testing gender differences. The limitation of these studies is the lack of a large sample size.','-','Seulgi Lee and Paran Gowda (2023). Does Gender Makes Difference in Visual Perception of Yoga Practitioners ? Biological Forum – An International Journal, 15(2): 944-947.'),(6226,'149','Microbial Population Characterization Associated with Effluents obtained from Seafood Processing Industries','S. Gini, S. Illanjiam, S. Priya Grace, C. Shanmugasundaram, T. Srinivasan, P. Nirmala, R.V. Prabu, K.N. Gayathri, S.R Sriram Kumar and A. Ganesh Kumar ','Microbial-Population-Characterization-Associated-with-Effluents-obtained-from-Seafood-Processing-Industries-S-Gini-148.pdf','',1,'In this study, microorganisms were isolated and identified from seafood processing effluent from Chennai. Microorganisms were isolated after the samples were serially diluted, inoculated on Nutrient agar media and Sabouraud Dextrose agar, respectively. The spread plate technique was used for the isolation process. The bacterial isolates were described by Gram staining and identification by biochemical assays. The colony and morphology of the isolates were also noted. Wet mount technique with lacto phenol method was used to examine the fungal isolates. According to the results, nine bacterial and four fungal isolates from the effluent were found, with Pseudomonas species being the most prevalent. Staphylococcus aureus, Bacillus species, Micrococcus species, Salmonella species, Vibrio species, Escherichia coli, Klebsiella species, and Shigella species. The isolated and identified fungi are Aspergillus niger, Aspergillus fumigatus, Aspergillus flavus, Curvularia, Alternaria. The isolates also showed resistant to some antibiotics. These bacteria causes ill effects to humans, so this effluent should be treated properly and treated seafood processing effluent can be used for agricultural purposes. So the study will be helpful to identify and isolate the pathogenic microorganism and also used for the future generation.','Seafood processing Effluents, Bacteria, Fungi, Morphological, Biochemical, Antibiotic Sensitivity','In conclusion, the extensive use of antibiotics in the production and processing of seafood is clearly supported by the large microbial load in the effluent and their resistance to several common antibiotics. If discharged without being properly treated, effluents harboring resistant bacteria may pollute the receiving river and other natural water bodies. As it enters the food chain, seafood taken from contaminated waterways may act as passive carriers of resistance that can harm people. Hence, identifying the risk factors involved in the transmission and spread of drug-resistant bacteria may be aided by early detection, the identification of antibiotic resistance patterns, and the characterization of the isolates from a seafood processing industries. Hence, good waste management procedures in processing facilities would not only preserve seafood cleanliness but also safeguard the environment.','-','S. Gini, S. Illanjiam, S. Priya Grace, C. Shanmugasundaram, T. Srinivasan, P. Nirmala, R.V. Prabu, K.N. Gayathri, S.R Sriram Kumar and A. Ganesh Kumar (2023). Microbial Population Characterization Associated with Effluents obtained from Seafood Processing Industries. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 15(2): 948-953.'),(6227,'149','Gene Pyramiding to Increase the Sustainability of Vegetables under Biotic and Abiotic Stresses','Manish Chauhan, Shivangi Negi, Shilpa and Priyanka Bijalwan ','Gene-Pyramiding-to-Increase-the-Sustainability-of-Vegetables-under-Biotic-and-Abiotic-Stresses-Manish-Chauhan-149.pdf','',1,'Numerous ecological factors, including drought, extreme temperatures, too much salt, parasitic diseases and insect pest infestation, endanger sustainable vegetable production. Future vegetable production in many nations may be negatively impacted by these difficult environmental factors. In modernized agriculture, conventional crop-breeding techniques are insufficient on their own to sustainably supply the rising population\'s food need. The advancement of molecular genetics and associated technologies is a promising method for selecting new crop species. Gene pyramiding using marker-assisted selection (MAS) and other strategies have been applied to produce resilient/tolerant lines with high precision and rapid growth for agricultural sustainability. Gene stacking has not been used to its full potential in the majority of the major farmed crops for the development of biotic stress tolerance and quality enhancement. The focus of this review is on gene pyramiding techniques that are successfully used in contemporary agriculture to increase crop tolerance to abiotic and biotic stresses for long-term crop improvement. Overall, gene pyramiding has the potential to revolutionize vegetable production by enhancing crop quality, productivity and sustainability.','Gene pyramiding, Marker Assisted Selection, Crop breeding, Vegetable, Stresses','A key technique for crop improvement is gene pyramiding. In order to have a reasonable chance of obtaining the desired genotype, breeders must take into account the minimum population size that must be evaluated when using pyramiding. By lowering the number of generations that breeders must test to make sure they have the desired gene combination, molecular marker genotyping can speed up the gene pyramiding process.','-','Manish Chauhan, Shivangi Negi, Shilpa and Priyanka Bijalwan (2023). Gene Pyramiding to Increase the Sustainability of Vegetables under Biotic and Abiotic Stresses. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 15(2): 954-960.'),(6228,'149','Influence of Physical Characters of Different Grafted Scion on the Rootstock of Mango (Mangifera indica L.) under Shade Net Condition of Prayagraj Region','Vinay Joseph Silas, V.M. Prasad, Vijay Rajwade and Saket Mishra ','Influence-of-Physical-Characters-of-Different-Grafted-Scion-on-the-Rootstock-of-Mango-(Mangifera-indica-L.)-under-Shade-Net-Condition-of-Prayagraj-Region-Vinay-Joseph-Silas-150.pdf','',1,'The experiment was conducted during the year 2019-20 & 2021-22, at Department of Horticulture, Naini Agricultural Institute, SHUATS, Prayagraj with the object to study the success and initial growth performance of grafts of some important varieties of mango under net house condition. The experiment consists of ten different varieties of mango Amrapali, Kishan Bhog, Gulabkhas, Kesar, Totapuri, Dasheri, Malgoa, Himsagar, Nisar Pasand & Bombay Green as treatments and replicated thrice in Completely Randomized Design (CRD). The results of present investigation clearly showed that, grafts of different mango varieties studied had a significant influence on the maximum values of growth parameters like Graft Diameter (23.80 mm), scion diameter (17.35 mm), rootstock diameter (20.06 mm), length of grafted plant (88.71 cm), Days to sprout (14.25), Number of leaves (21.50), survival percentage at 150 DAG (90.00%) and rootstock length (65.72cm ) were recorded maximum in the graft of variety Dasheri while Stionic ratio was found best in the graft of variety Gulabkhas (0.90), Scion length (25.14cm) was found best in the graft of variety Malgoa and maximum leaf area (307.43 cm2) was found in kesar.','Mango, Rootstock, Scion, Grafting, Monoembryonic','The present investigation, can be concluded that the performance of grafts of Dasheri, Malgoa, Nisar Pasand & Amrapali varieties was found superior at nursery stage as grafts of these varieties have required comparatively well survival percentage. The growth parameters like graft diameter and shoot: root ratio were found maximum in these varieties. The root and biomass characters were also significantly superior in grafts of said varieties. Hence, it can be suggested that, for large scale multiplication of mango plants through wedge grafting, the scion wood of Dasheri, Malgoa, Amrapali & Nisar Pasand varieties may be used, as grafts of these varieties have recorded maximum success and higher values of growth parameters. ','-','Vinay Joseph Silas, V.M. Prasad, Vijay Rajwade and Saket Mishra (2023). Influence of Physical Characters of Different Grafted Scion on the Rootstock of Mango (Mangifera indica L.) under Shade Net Condition of Prayagraj Region. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 15(2): 961-964.'),(6229,'149','Isolation and Characterization of Surface Fungi from Local Fruits of Meghalaya, India','Dhritiman Chanda, G.D. Sharma and Madhumita Dey ','Isolation-and-Characterization-of-Surface-Fungi-from-Local-Fruits-of-Meghalaya,-India-Dhritiman-Chanda-151.pdf','',1,'The diverse group of microbial communities especially fungi and bacteria colonize fruit surfaces are closely associated with the destruction of the quality, yield and food value. There are various environmental factors like moisture, temperature and humidity which are directly influence the occurrence of various surface fungi to infect the fruits. The present study was determined to study and characterize the diversity of surface fungi from some local fruits of Meghalaya. Six important types of fresh fruits and spoilt fruits were collected on the basis of highest consumption by the local people of Ri-Bhoi district, Meghalaya which include peach (Prunus persica), passion fruit (Passiflora nepalensis), pineapple (Ananas comosus), jackfruit (Artocarpus heterophyllus), pear (Pyrus communis), amla (Emblica officinalis). A total of eight fungal genera were identified which showed severe infection on the selected fruit surface. High temperature, high relative humidity and moisture can cause fungi to be present on the surface of fruits. Therefore, care must be taken to minimize the occurrence the occurrence of these disease for healthy consumption by the native people of this region. This preliminary data help us to identify various surface fungi associated with contaminated fruits thereby to provide suggestive approaches to the local people for safety consumption of these indigenous fruits.','Surface fungi, mycotoxins, secondary metabolites, relative abundance, bio-control agents','The present study was carried out to isolate and characterize the pathogenic fungi growing in local fruits which showed a significant occurrence of various pathogenic fungi. Due to high relative humidity and favorable conditions, the isolated fungi strains showed significant value of relative abundance and positive amylase activity and cellulose test. Therefore, there is a need to keep the fruits in a good place of storage condition for proper care to get rid of the attack of various pathogenic fungi which can lead to various human illness. Care should also be taken to consume the fruits with proper scientific knowledge by knowing the pathogenic fungi which may contaminate and thereby spoiled the fruits.\r\nThus, present work help us to identify and estimate the abundance of surface fungi especially in the fruits growing in Meghalaya on basis of which future preservation. A suggestive approach must be carried out among the local people for the healthy consumption of these fruitsbased on proper scientific preservation methods and thereby to maintain the quality of fruits. The future work can be extended for molecular characterisation of the fungi and to estimate the percentage of pathogenesis with control measures for safety consumption and socio-economic aspects of this region. \r\n','-','Dhritiman Chanda, G.D. Sharma and Madhumita Dey (2023). Isolation and Characterization of Surface Fungi from Local Fruits of Meghalaya, India. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 15(2): 965-971.'),(6230,'149','A Productive Breeding Programme on Identifying the Elite Combiners for Early Vigour and Productivity Related Traits in identified Local Landraces of rabi sorghum [Sorghum bicolor (L.) Moench]','Prashant Kariyannanavar, S.T. Kajjidoni, P.V. Patil, R.M. Kachapur and L.K. Verma','A-Productive-Breeding-Programme-on-Identifying-the-Elite-Combiners-for-Early-Vigour-and-Productivity-Related-Traits-in-identified-Local-Landraces-of-rabi-sorghum-[Sorghum-bicolor-Prashant-Kariyannanavar-152.pdf','',1,'Early vigor in sorghum [Sorghum bicolor (L.) Moench] is important for improving stand establishment of the crop, particularly in rainfed regions. Hence present study emphasis on combining ability analysis for early vigour and productivity related traits of 48 hybrids (8 Lines × 6 Testers) revealed that all the traits under study including early vigour were under non-additive genetic control. Among parents, Kodmurkhi local was the best general combiner for panicle breadth, panicle weight, grain yield per plant and number of leaves per plant along with CSV- 216R as best general combiner for early vigour traits as well as productivity related traits this signified positive response of early vigour to the productive related traits. The crosses CSV-216R × IS-4631 and SPV-2333 × RSLG-23 were good specific combiners for grain yield per plant, panicle weight and 100 seed weight, interestingly, the above-mentioned cross CSV-216R × IS-4631 was also the good specific combiner for early vigour traits viz., root collar diameter, plant height and leaf width. These elite crosses can be advanced further to isolate the transgressive seggregants for nutritional quality traits as crosses bearing the blood from the elite landraces. Further, superior early vigour hybrids will be bone for shoot fly resistance coupled with quality traits. ','Landraces, early vigour, combining ability','The current study revealed that the Kodmurkhi local was the best general combiner for panicle breadth, panicle weight, and grain yield per plant along with number of leaves per plant. Similarly, CSV-216R was the best general combiners for plant height, panicle length, root collar diameter, plant height at 60 days, number of leaves and leaf width this signified positive correlation between early vigour traits and productivity related traits. Further these lines can be used as parent in hybridisation programme and to predict the hybrid performance at early stage of the crop (Table 5 and 6). Among the crosses, Kodmurkhi Local × RSLG-23, CSV-216R × IS-4631, Kodmurkhi Local × EC-8, Lakmapur Local × EC-8, SPV-2333 × RSLG-23, and SPV-2217 × RSLG-23 exhibiting significant sca effects, preferred grain shape (Round), grain color (yellow) and per se performance for the grain yield per plant can be advanced further to isolate transgressive segregants for grain yield and quality traits with advance of early vigour. ','-','Prashant Kariyannanavar, S.T. Kajjidoni, P.V. Patil, R.M. Kachapur and L.K. Verma (2023). A Productive Breeding Programme on Identifying the Elite Combiners for Early Vigour and Productivity Related Traits in identified Local Landraces of rabi sorghum [Sorghum bicolor (L.) Moench]. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 15(2): 972-976.'),(6231,'149','Effect of Super Absorbent Polymer with various Watering Intervals on Seedling Growth of Swietenia mahagoni (L.) Jacq.','Satyanidhi S., Manjappa, K., Koppad A.G. and Vasudeva R.','Effect-of-Super-Absorbent-Polymer-with-various-Watering-Intervals-on-Seedling-Growth-of-Swietenia-mahagoni-(L.)-Jacq.-Satyanidhi-S-153.pdf','',1,'An experiment was conducted at College of Forestry, Sirsi to know the effect of SAP with various watering intervals on seedling growth of Swietenia mahagoni in nursery. The experiment was laid out in factorial completely randomized design with six levels of SAP (0, 0.5, 1.0, 2.0, 3.0 and 4.0 g per seedling) and four watering intervals (2, 4, 6 and 8 days) and replicates three times. Results showed that SAP, watering intervals and their interactions had a significant effect on growth parameters of Swietenia mahagoni in nursery. At 200 days of observation, the higher seedling height (25.7 cm), collar diameter (5.37 mm), number of leaves per plant (16.2), root dry weight (11.87 g), shoot dry weight (19.46 g) and root to shoot ratio (0.57) were recorded at 4 g of SAP per seedling which was on par with 3 g per seedling. Significantly lowest values were observed at control. For watering intervals, maximum seedling growth parameters were recorded at 2 days watering interval which were found on par with 4 and 6 days interval. Significantly lowest values were observed at 8 days interval. It clearly shows healthy seedlings of Swietenia mahagoni can be raised by application of SAP @ 3 g per seedling + 6 days watering interval. Under water scarcity situations, watering can also be applied at 8 days interval if SAP is applied at 4 g per seedling.','Swietenia mahagoni, Super Absorbent Polymer, growth parameters','SAP has more water absorption capacity in the soil and slowly desorbs to the root zone of plants whenever there is lack of moisture content in soil. It can be concluded from the data that healthy seedlings of Swietenia mahagoni can be raised by application of SAP @ 3 g per seedling + 6 days watering interval. Under water scarcity situations, watering can also be applied at 8 days interval if SAP is applied at 4 g per seedling without compromising much on quality and growth of seedlings.','-','Satyanidhi S., Manjappa, K., Koppad A.G. and Vasudeva R. (2023). Effect of Super Absorbent Polymer with various Watering Intervals on Seedling Growth of Swietenia mahagoni (L.) Jacq. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 15(2): 977-980.'),(6232,'149','Analysis of Bioactive Compounds in Methanolic Leaf Extract of Diospyros melanoxylon Roxb. Challenged with AM Fungi by Liquid Chromatography Mass Spectrometry (LC-MS) Technique','S. Syam Prasad and P.R. Sushama','Analysis of Bioactive Compounds in Methanolic Leaf Extract of Diospyros melanoxylon Roxb. Challenged with AM Fungi by Liquid Chromatography Mass Spectrometry (LC-MS) Technique-PR Sushama-154.pdf','',1,'Plants are abundant sources of a variety of bioactive phytochemicals that have a variety of biological impacts. The protection of human health and benefit come from the screening of phytochemical substances. Diospyros melanoxylon (Roxb.), a member of the Ebenaceae family, is a significant commercial, multipurpose, and medical plant utilized in a variety of circumstances. The primary goal of the current experiment was to examine the phytochemical substances in the leaves of the D. melanoxylon challenged with AM fungi using liquid chromatography and mass spectrometry, (LC–MS). Plant challenged with AM fungi leaves samples were analyzed with LC-MS analysis and 27 different phytochemical substances with different molecular weight were found. The primary bioactive substances were gallic acid, ursolic acid, oleanolic acid and betulinic acid (Rt-1.07, 23.82, 23.70 and 24.44). Analysis of the mass spectra has allowed for the identification of the chemicals. The use of D. melanoxylon leaves for treating a number of ailments is confirmed by the presence of several bioactive chemicals with diverse chemical structures. Hence, it is claimed that plant is crucial for pharmaceuticals. Moreover, it might be necessary to isolate specific bioactive substances in order to discover a novel medicine.','Diospyros melanoxylon, Leaves, LC–MS, Phytochemicals, Methanol','The compounds identified in the D. melanoxylon leaves extract most have medicinal properties and some have antimicrobial activities. Present study declared that the 27 different phytochemical compounds were identified as the phenolics, flavonoids, terpenoids, fatty acids and some unknown compounds having several enormous applications. Hence it can be used for further processing like encapsulation.','-','S. Syam Prasad and P.R. Sushama (2023). Analysis of Bioactive Compounds in Methanolic Leaf Extract of Diospyros melanoxylon Roxb. Challenged with AM Fungi by Liquid Chromatography Mass Spectrometry (LC-MS) Technique. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 15(2): 981-989.'),(6233,'149','Comparative Study of the Cytotoxic Effects of Raw Aloe vera Gel Extract on the Root Tip Cells of Allium cepa and Allium sativum','Rafia Farooquee and Dipankar Dutta','Comparative-Study-of-the-Cytotoxic-Effects-of-Raw-Aloe-vera-Gel-Extract-on-the-Root-Tip-Cells-of-Allium-cepa-and-Allium-sativum-Dipankar-Dutta-155.pdf','',1,'The Aloe vera plant is a succulent plant and its leaf is widely used in the field of cosmetic, Ayurvedic, Homeopathic Allopathic, as well as in food industry. The present study has been carried out to know about the cytotoxic effect of raw A. vera gel extract on the root tip cells of both Allium cepa (Onion) and A. sativum (Garlic). Three different concentrations of raw A. vera gel extract (i.e., 20%, 40% and 60%) were prepared for the experiment. The prepared microscopic slides were observed under a microscope. By summarizing the results using Analysis of Variance (ANOVA) it has been observed that the effect of 20%, 40% and 60% A. vera extract for the exposure of 24 hours on onion is higher than the garlic. Thus, the results of this study indicates that the raw A. vera gel extract exhibits some cytotoxic effect on both the root tip cells of A. cepa and A. sativum, but the effect of the raw gel extract is higher on onion root tip cells. Aloe vera has many beneficial effects and therefore, it was the most challenging part to establish its cytotoxic effect in terms of mitotic inhibition. Thus, we can conclude that the raw A. vera gel should not be consumed as it caused mitotic inhibition in both onion and garlic root tip cells.','Aloe vera, Cytotoxic, Allium cepa, Allium sativum, Mitotic inhibition, Mitotic Index','The result of this study indicates that the raw Aloe vera gel extract exhibits some cytogenetic effect on both the root tip cells of onion (Allium cepa) and garlic (A. sativum), but the effect of raw A. vera gel extract on the root tip cells of onion is much higher than the root tip cells. Thus, by comparing the results obtained during this scientific investigation we can conclude that the effect of raw A. vera gel extract is higher in onion root tip cells than garlic root tip cells. Thus, we can say that onion is very much susceptible than garlic. From this scientific investigation we can also conclude that the raw A. vera gel should not be consumed as it causes mitotic inhibition in both garlic and onion root tip cells. A. vera gel also causes various mutagenic effects in some animals like in rats as mentioned by various researchers. So, the A. vera gel should be consumed after processing and not as raw product.','-','Rafia Farooquee and Dipankar Dutta (2023). Comparative Study of the Cytotoxic Effects of Raw Aloe vera Gel Extract on the Root Tip Cells of Allium cepa and Allium sativum. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 15(2): 990-1002.'),(6234,'149','Relational Analysis of Awareness Regarding Health and Hygiene Apropos Menstruation among Women in Bihar','Diksha Srivastava, Arunima Kumari and Sudhanand Prasad Lal ','Relational-Analysis-of-Awareness-Regarding-Health-and-Hygiene-Apropos-Menstruation-among-Women-in-Bihar-Sudhanand-Prasad-Lal-156.pdf','',1,'Health is a condition of well-being in which the body\'s and mind\'s parts are in harmony and proper balance with one another and in order to preserve and enhance one\'s physical and mental health, one must practice hygiene. In the present research, done in the purposively chosen Muzaffarpur district of Bihar, explores the relationship between socio-economic background and awareness regarding health and hygiene (including menstrual hygiene). Two blocks from the district, one village from each block, and 40 respondents from each village (total of 80 respondents) were selected. With the use of a semi-structured interview schedule, data were gathered by individually interviewing the respondents. Pearson’s product-moment correlation coefficient (r) was used to explore the relational analysis of awareness regarding health and hygiene. Most of the respondents found a medium awareness level regarding health and hygiene which was 56.25%. Correlation analysis found significant for variables as like age were negatively correlated and significant at 1% level with Correlation coefficient (r) -0.430. Similarly, religion and Aware PMBJP were positively correlated and significant at 5% level with Correlation coefficient (r) 0.231 and 0.241 respectively. Most of the respondents found a medium awareness level regarding health and hygiene which was 56.25% and to increase it, people should be more aware and sensitized.','Awareness, Correlation analysis, Health, Hygiene, Menstruation','In this study, most of the respondents have a medium awareness level regarding health and hygiene, (56.25%) respondents said that they were somehow aware of the health and hygiene maintaining procedures, thus come under medium awareness level while (29%) of respondents having awareness level and (15%) respondents possessed a high level of awareness. The findings of correlation analysis between dependent (Awareness regarding health and hygiene) and independent variables have been summarized as- out of a total 13 variables, 7 variables were found positively correlated and 1 variable found negatively correlated with awareness regarding health and hygiene. Variables as like age were negatively correlated and significant at 1% level with a Correlation coefficient (r) -0.430. Similarly, religion and Aware PMBJP were positively correlated and significant at 5% level with Correlation coefficient (r) 0.231 and 0.241 respectively. Likewise, education, profession, mass media exposure, nutrition, & annual income were positively correlated and significant at 1 percent level with Correlation coefficient (r) 0.555, 0.632, 0.636, 0.439 and 0.727 found respectively. Left 5 variables like marital status, family type, family size, and number of females were found negatively associated with the awareness regarding health and hygiene; although their associations were also non-significant. This indicates that in order to boost respondents\' awareness, their level of knowledge must be raised.','-','Diksha Srivastava, Arunima Kumari and Sudhanand Prasad Lal (2023). Relational Analysis of Awareness Regarding Health and Hygiene Apropos Menstruation among Women in Bihar. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 15(2): 1003-1007.'),(6235,'149','Wild Edible Plants in Karjat Tahsil of Ahmednagar District, Maharashtra','Suvarna Gaikwad, Asha Kadam, Pratishtha Powar Nagane and Dadasaheb Wadavkar','Wild-Edible-Plants-in-Karjat-Tahsil-of-Ahmednagar-District,-Maharashtra-Asha-Kadam-157.pdf','',1,'Wild edible plants are gaining worldwide recognition for their high nutraceutical value and health advantages, as well as for their potential to contribute to the conservation of biodiversity, food security, nutrition, dietary diversity, and income generation. Literature on wild edible plants from the research area was limited. The current study aimed to identify and categorize Wild Edible Plants in the Karjat Tahsil in the Ahmednagar district to compile a database of the wild edible plants of this area. During the summer of 2022, fieldwork and visits were carried out in rural areas of Karjat such Rashin, Kombhali, Kangudwadi, and Koregaon. A literature search, frequent inquiries, and talks with experts are all part of the technique. Interviews and observation techniques were also used to gather primary data. To gather wild edible plants, field trips were made to meet with tribal members. Flora images were captured in several locations. The information is represented in the tabulated form as botanical name, local name, edible parts, family, and uses of the plants. The present study revealed that during the field survey, a total of 56 Wild Edible Plant species belonging to 47 genera and 31 families were reported in the Karjat Tahsil of the Ahmednagar district. Most dominant Wild Edible Plants were recorded from the family Amaranthaceae and Fabaceae (6 species each), followed by Rutaceae (4 species), then Asteraceae, Cucurbitaceae, and Convolvulaceae (3 species each). It has been also observed that leaves (18 species) and fruits (13 species) were the most used part for medicinal purposes, followed by roots (10 species), whole plant (9 species), and seeds (9 species). This traditional knowledge has never been reported before from selected area. As a result, this is the first investigation of exploring Wild Edible Plants in the Karjat area of the Ahmednagar district. This research can be useful as a foundation for information on wild edible plants for the study area.','Wild Edible Plants, Nutraceutical, Medicinal use, Biodiversity, Traditional knowledge','Overall, the current study is significant for understanding the Wild Edible Plants in Karjat Tahsil of the Ahmednagar district because it offers a preliminary list of plants. From the current research work, it can be concluded that the Wild Edible Plant variety is abundant in the Karjat region. The present study identified 56 Wild Edible Plants that were used by the local people of Karjat Tahsil to fulfill their dietary, medical, and economic needs. This is the first report documenting Wild Edible Plants in the Karjat Tahsil of the Ahmednagar district. It is crucial to research and preserve such important knowledge before it entirely disappears due to environmental changes, the lack of interest among younger generations in traditional wisdom, and the urbanization of natural forests. More research should be done to confirm the nutritional composition and pharmacological potential of Wild Edible Plants to increase public appreciation for them. Further research should be done on Wild Edible Plants that are under threat of extinction but have significant nutraceutical and medicinal potential for biodiversity preservation, medicine development, and sustainable use. ','-','Suvarna Gaikwad, Asha Kadam, Pratishtha Powar Nagane and Dadasaheb Wadavkar (2023). Wild Edible Plants in Karjat Tahsil of Ahmednagar District, Maharashtra. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 15(2): 1008-1018.'),(6236,'149','Seasonal Effects on Hatchability Performance of Ostrich (Struthio camelus) in Tropical Climate','P. Tensingh Gnanaraj and C. Pandian','Seasonal-Effects-on-Hatchability-Performance-of-Ostrich-(Struthio-camelus)-in-Tropical-Climate-C-Pandian-158.pdf','',1,'Study on months and seasonal influence on hatching performance of ostrich was carried out at the Post Graduate Research Institute in Animal Sciences, Tamil Nadu Veterinary and Animal Sciences University, Kattupakkam, Kanchipuram district, Tamil Nadu. To assess the hatching performance a total of 1439 ostrich eggs were used in this study. Hatching performance viz., fertility, total hatchability, fertile hatchability and embryonic mortality were assessed. The result showed that month and season had a significant influence on fertility, total hatchability, fertile hatchability and embryonic mortality. Higher per centage of fertility (48.46) and total egg hatchability (16.04) were observed during November month. Season had a highly significant (P≤0.01) influence on fertility performance in ostrich and comparatively highest percentage of fertility were observed during northeast monsoon (33.77) and winter (31.39) season followed by summer (14.55) and southwest monsoon (10.28) season. Similarly, highest total hatchability percentage was observed during northeast monsoon (11.98) and winter (8.39). Comparatively higher percentage of embryonic mortality were observed during south west monsoon (81.94) and winter (72.85) than summer (64.81) and northeast monsoon (62.47). From the above study, it can be concluded that the hatching performances in ostrich relying on season since, better hatching performance observed during northeast monsoon and winter season. ','Hatchability performances, month and seasonal influence, Ostrich','The above study concluded that months and different season showed significant influence on fertility and hatchability performance in ostrich and considered as a seasonal breeder in tropical climate, which is evident from that significantly better fertility and hatchability were observed during northeast monsoon and winter than summer and southeast monsoon seasons. ','-','P. Tensingh Gnanaraj and C. Pandian (2023). Seasonal Effects on Hatchability Performance of Ostrich (struthio camelus) in Tropical Climate. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 15(2): 1019-1022.'),(6237,'149','Effect of Phosphorus and Sulphur Levels on Nutrient Content and Uptake of Groundnut (Arachis hypogaea L.)','Kamal, A.K. Dhaka, Ram Prakash, Amit Sharma and B.K. Dhaka ','Effect-of-Phosphorus-and-Sulphur-Levels-on-Nutrient-Content-and-Uptake-of-Groundnut-(Arachis-hypogaea-L.)-Kamal-159.pdf','',1,'Due to unbalanced nutrient application, productivity of groundnut is lower than anticipated in India. The efforts to enhance groundnut production can be achieved by proper nutrient management practices. So, keeping this in view, the field experiment was conducted during the Kharif season of 2021 at crop physiology field lab, Department of Agronomy, Chaudhary Charan Singh Haryana Agricultural University, Hisar. The experiment was laid out in split plot design with four phosphorus levels (0, 40, 50, 60 kg P2O5 ha-1) in main plots and four sulphur levels (0, 25, 50, 75 kg Sha-1) in sub-plots with three replications. The highest uptake of N (82.9 kg ha-1), P (12.7 kg ha-1), K (14.6 kg ha-1), S (8.2 kg ha-1) by kernel and N (97.6 kg ha-1), P (16.7 kg ha-1), K (81.7 kg ha-1), S (15.0 kg ha-1) by haulm were obtained with application of 60 kg P2O5 ha-1, which were significantly higher over control by 90.5, 92.4, 75.9, 95.2 and 47.2, 81.5, 46.4, 78.5 percent, respectively. Among sulphur levels, highest uptake of N (79.0 kg ha-1), P (12.3 kg ha-1), K (14.2 kg ha-1), S (8.0 kg ha-1) by kernel and N (93.7 kg ha-1), P (15.4 kg ha-1), K (77.8 kg ha-1), S (13.9 kg ha-1) by haulm were obtained with 75 kg Sha-1, which were significantly higher over control by 51.0, 55.6, 46.3, 63.2 and 25.4, 38.7, 24.0, 43.2 percent, respectively.','Groundnut, phosphorus levels, sulphur levels, nutrient uptake','Based on the above cited results of the experiment it could be concluded that application of 60 kg P2O5 ha-1 and 75 kg S ha-1 significantly improved nutrient uptake of groundnut but it was statistically at par with application of 50 kg P2O5 ha-1 and 50 kg S ha-1. So, to obtain better uptake of nutrient groundnut, crop may be fertilized with phosphorus and sulphur levels of 50 kg ha-1 each.','-','Kamal, A.K. Dhaka, Ram Prakash, Amit Sharma and B.K. Dhaka (2023). Effect of Phosphorus and Sulphur Levels on Nutrient Content and Uptake of Groundnut (Arachis hypogaea L.). Biological Forum – An International Journal, 15(2): 1023-1026.'),(6238,'149','Influence of Rearing Systems on the Production Performance of “TANUVAS Namakkal quail - 1” Breeder Male Line','V. Kannan, K. Rajendran, M. Moorthy, D. Anandha Prakash Singh and A.K. Thiruvenkadan ','Influence of Rearing Systems on the Production Performance of “TANUVAS Namakkal quail - 1” Breeder Male Line-V Kannan-160.pdf','',1,'An experiment was conducted with a total of 400 straight run “TANUVAS Namakkal Quail - 1” male breeder line chicks, these chicks were weighed, wing banded, and randomly assigned to 2 treatments, each 5 replicates 40 chicks each. The two systems namely deep litter and cage were selected to study the production performance of birds. The result showed that the body weight of the cage-reared birds on the sixth week of age was significantly (P<0.01) better than in deep litter (238.16±0.54 vs 231.67±0.55 g) and the body weight gain is also better in cage-reared birds. The cumulative feed consumption up to 6 weeks of age was non-significant in deep litter rearing systems, while the feed conversion ratio was significant at P<0.05 level during the first week and P<0.01 level during 2-6 week of age in cage rearing systems. The cost of production up to six weeks of age is lower with cage rearing than in deep litter.','“TANUVAS Namakkal quail -1”, male breeder line, deep litter rearing, cage rearing, body weight, weight gain, feed consumption, feed conversion ratio','It is concluded from the results of this study that the rearing system had significant influence on the performances of body weight, body weight gain and feed conversion ratio of “TANUVAS Namakkal quail- 1” male breeder during growing period. So, the quails perform better in cage system of rearing than deep litter system. Even though the fixed cost involvement is more, the cage rearing system of Japanese quail is recommended to exploit the potency better results. ','-','V. Kannan, K. Rajendran, M. Moorthy, D. Anandha Prakash Singh and A.K. Thiruvenkadan (2023). Influence of Rearing Systems on the Production Performance of “TANUVAS Namakkal quail - 1” Breeder Male Line. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 15(2): 1027-1030.'),(6239,'149','Ionic Regulation and Gill Na+/k+ -ATPase Activities in Freshwater Fish Grass Carp Ctenopharyngodon idella during Glyphosate Toxic Exposure','R. Divya, A. Jude Jebri Raj and M. Prabu','Ionic-Regulation-and-Gill-Na+k+--ATPase-Activities-in-Freshwater-Fish-Grass-Carp-Ctenopharyngodon-idella-during-Glyphosate-Toxic-Exposure-R.-Divya-161.pdf','',1,'The Impact of Glyphosate on grass carp gill Na+/K+-ATPase interaction and electrolyte concentration (Na+, K+ and Cl-). The effects of glyphosate on grass carp electrolyte concentrations (Na+, K+, and Cl-) even gills Na+/K+-ATPase activity were studied using Ctenopharyngodon idella. It was found that glyphosate, with a 24-hour LC50 of 1.36 ppm for grass carp, had adverse effects on gill Na+/K+-ATPase function and led to hyponatremia, hypokalaemia, also hypo chloremia upon acute exposure. 35 days of sublethal exposure to 1.36 ppm of glyphosate resulted in a reduction in plasma Na+ level during the absorption period and blood plasma K+ content up to day 28, while plasma Cl- levels also dropped. With increasing exposure time, gills Na+/K+-ATPase activity was found to decrease. The studies indicated that glyphosate is extremely hazardous to freshwater fish, and changes in blood ion levels and gill Na+/K+-ATPase action could be utilized as responsive glyphosate indicators and its effects.','Grass carp, Ctenopharyngodon idella, Glyphosate, Acute and Sublethal toxicity, Electrolytes','The findings of the study indicate the Na+/K+-ATPase enzyme acts as critical involvement in the regulation of branchial ion transportation and the preservation of osmotic and ionic cellular metabolism in freshwater fish. The toxicant-induced repression of this enzyme action can have consequences for the preservation of the balance of ions and osmolality and the level of this metabolite can be utilized to detect impact on fish ionic and osmoregulation. Hence, employing less persistent glyphosate, developing herbicides with specific targets, and implementing molecular regulation measures it may reduce in hazard to humans and other living things.','-','R. Divya, A. Jude Jebri Raj and M. Prabu (2023). Ionic Regulation and Gill Na+/k+ -ATPase Activities in Freshwater Fish Grass Carp Ctenopharyngodon idella during Glyphosate Toxic Exposure. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 15(2): 1031-1037.'),(6240,'149','Ameliorative Role of Lactobacillus casei and Bifidobacterium bifidum in Spirotetramat induced Oxidative Stressed Wistar Rats','Shariq Hussain and Madhavi Gaur','Ameliorative-Role-of-Lactobacillus-casei-and-Bifidobacterium-bifidum-in-Spirotetramat-induced-Oxidative-Stressed-Wistar-Rats-Shariq-Hussain-162.pdf','',1,'Pesticides have created a severe mess throughout the agricultural world by altering various biological processes and researchers are targeting the direct their studies in order to minimize their ill effects by practicing different agents from organic background. Spirotetramat, a tetramic acid derived pesticide has been found to cause a variable toxicity among living organisms at different levels, there by causing an environmental threat to non-target organism. Keeping this challenge in the view we tried to minimize this treat with alternative intake of probiotics. In this study we have tried to find out the ameliorative role of probiotics Lactobacillus casei and Bifidobacterium bifidum in Spirotetramat induced toxicity in Wistar rats. The rats were divided in to five groups with a control group for reference. Toxicity was induced by administration of Spirotetramat at 667mg/kgbw/day for 28 days along with gavaging of probiotics (L. casei and B. bifidum 1 × 107 cfu/ml). Enzymatic activities like were estimated by prescribed protocols for estimation of oxidative stress. Lipid peroxidation (LPO), Superoxide dismutase (SOD), Catalase CAT, Glutathione peroxidase (GPx) and Glutathione (GSH) levels were estimated after sacrifice. Lipid per oxidation (LPO) was found significantly increased (302.5 % and 290.5% in Liver and Kidney respectively) (P<0.01); however in the treated groups with L. casei and B. bifidum showed a significantly (P<0.01) reduction in LPO (53.5%). Glutathione (GSH) was found to decreased significantly (P<0.01) (70.2% and 75.3% in Liver and Kidney respectively) in pesticide administrated rats as compare to untreated ones. Superoxide dismutase (SOD) levels in toxicity induced rats significantly (P < 0.01) decreased (43.5% and 49.5% in liver and kidney respectively) in comparison with untreated rats. Catalase (CAT) was also found to be decreased significantly (P < 0.01) (35.09% and 32.20% in liver and kidney respectively) that was observed in comparison to normal rats. After the treatment with L. casei it resulted in significant (P < 0.05, 43.08%) increase in CAT whereas in combination of both probiotics and B. bifidum separately it showed a significant (P < 0.01) increase in CAT. For Glutathione peroxidase (GPx) levels, a significant (P < 0.01) decrease was reported (71.20% and 67.20% in liver and kidney respectively) when compared to normal rats.','Lactobacillus, Oxidative stress, Probiotics, Spirotetramat, Toxicity','By estimating the relative oxidative stress among different groups of Wistar rats, it is finally concluded that probiotics have a promising role in control of organ toxicity and hence can be used as an alternative therapy to minimize the relative ill effects Spirotetramat.','-','Shariq Hussain and Madhavi Gaur (2023). Ameliorative Role of Lactobacillus casei and Bifidobacterium bifidum in Spirotetramat induced Oxidative Stressed Wistar Rats. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 15(2): 1038-1042.'),(6241,'149','Otolith Atlas of Freshwater Bony Fishes from Kashmir Waters in the Indian Himalayan Region','Nowsheen Mushtaq, Syed Talia Mushtaq, Tasaduq Hussain Shah, Farooz Ahmad Bhat, Syed Aalia Mushtaq and Aziz-ul-Rehman\r\n','Otolith-Atlas-of-Freshwater-Bony-Fishes-from-Kashmir-Waters-in-the-Indian--Himalayan-Region-Syed-Talia-Mushtaq-163-4559.docx','',4,'This research represents the otolith belonging to fourteen species under five families of teleost fishes caught by using various fishing gears from different water bodies of Kashmir. The otoliths were removed carefully by making an incision in the cranium. The photographs of otoliths were taken in pairs using black background. This is the novel work on this subject for the fish species found in Kashmir valley.','Otoliths, sagittae, exotic species, freshwater fish, gears, teleost','In this research, otolith images of the fish species found in Kashmir were determined for the first time with an aim to provide a photographic guide of sagittae otoliths of the main fish species found in Kashmir. This atlas consists of photographic images of sagittae otoliths of fourteen species belonging to five families distributed in three orders. ','-','Nowsheen Mushtaq, Syed Talia Mushtaq, Tasaduq Hussain Shah, Farooz Ahmad Bhat, Syed Aalia Mushtaq and Aziz-ul-Rehman (2023). Otolith Atlas of Freshwater Bony Fishes from Kashmir Waters in the Indian Himalayan Region. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 15(2): 1043-1045.'),(6242,'149','Otolith Atlas of Freshwater Bony Fishes from Kashmir Waters in the Indian Himalayan Region','Nowsheen Mushtaq, Syed Talia Mushtaq, Tasaduq Hussain Shah, Farooz Ahmad Bhat, Syed Aalia Mushtaq and Aziz-ul-Rehman\r\n','Otolith-Atlas-of-Freshwater-Bony-Fishes-from-Kashmir-Waters-in-the-Indian--Himalayan-Region-Syed-Talia-Mushtaq-163.pdf','',4,'This research represents the otolith belonging to fourteen species under five families of teleost fishes caught by using various fishing gears from different water bodies of Kashmir. The otoliths were removed carefully by making an incision in the cranium. The photographs of otoliths were taken in pairs using black background. This is the novel work on this subject for the fish species found in Kashmir valley.','Otoliths, sagittae, exotic species, freshwater fish, gears, teleost','In this research, otolith images of the fish species found in Kashmir were determined for the first time with an aim to provide a photographic guide of sagittae otoliths of the main fish species found in Kashmir. This atlas consists of photographic images of sagittae otoliths of fourteen species belonging to five families distributed in three orders. ','-','Nowsheen Mushtaq, Syed Talia Mushtaq, Tasaduq Hussain Shah, Farooz Ahmad Bhat, Syed Aalia Mushtaq and Aziz-ul-Rehman (2023). Otolith Atlas of Freshwater Bony Fishes from Kashmir Waters in the Indian Himalayan Region. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 15(2): 1043-1045.'),(6243,'149','Otolith Atlas of Freshwater Bony Fishes from Kashmir Waters in the Indian Himalayan Region','Nowsheen Mushtaq, Syed Talia Mushtaq, Tasaduq Hussain Shah, Farooz Ahmad Bhat, Syed Aalia Mushtaq and Aziz-ul-Rehman\r\n','Otolith-Atlas-of-Freshwater-Bony-Fishes-from-Kashmir-Waters-in-the-Indian--Himalayan-Region-Syed-Talia-Mushtaq-163.pdf','',4,'This research represents the otolith belonging to fourteen species under five families of teleost fishes caught by using various fishing gears from different water bodies of Kashmir. The otoliths were removed carefully by making an incision in the cranium. The photographs of otoliths were taken in pairs using black background. This is the novel work on this subject for the fish species found in Kashmir valley.','Otoliths, sagittae, exotic species, freshwater fish, gears, teleost','In this research, otolith images of the fish species found in Kashmir were determined for the first time with an aim to provide a photographic guide of sagittae otoliths of the main fish species found in Kashmir. This atlas consists of photographic images of sagittae otoliths of fourteen species belonging to five families distributed in three orders. ','-','Nowsheen Mushtaq, Syed Talia Mushtaq, Tasaduq Hussain Shah, Farooz Ahmad Bhat, Syed Aalia Mushtaq and Aziz-ul-Rehman (2023). Otolith Atlas of Freshwater Bony Fishes from Kashmir Waters in the Indian Himalayan Region. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 15(2): 1043-1045.'),(6244,'149','Otolith Atlas of Freshwater Bony Fishes from Kashmir Waters in the Indian Himalayan Region','Nowsheen Mushtaq, Syed Talia Mushtaq*, Tasaduq Hussain Shah, Farooz Ahmad Bhat, Syed Aalia Mushtaq and Aziz-ul-Rehman\r\n','Otolith-Atlas-of-Freshwater-Bony-Fishes-from-Kashmir-Waters-in-the-Indian--Himalayan-Region-Syed-Talia-Mushtaq-163.pdf','',1,'This research represents the otolith belonging to fourteen species under five families of teleost fishes caught by using various fishing gears from different water bodies of Kashmir. The otoliths were removed carefully by making an incision in the cranium. The photographs of otoliths were taken in pairs using black background. This is the novel work on this subject for the fish species found in Kashmir valley.','Otoliths, sagittae, exotic species, freshwater fish, gears, teleost','In this research, otolith images of the fish species found in Kashmir were determined for the first time with an aim to provide a photographic guide of sagittae otoliths of the main fish species found in Kashmir. This atlas consists of photographic images of sagittae otoliths of fourteen species belonging to five families distributed in three orders. ','-','Nowsheen Mushtaq, Syed Talia Mushtaq, Tasaduq Hussain Shah, Farooz Ahmad Bhat, Syed Aalia Mushtaq and Aziz-ul-Rehman (2023). Otolith Atlas of Freshwater Bony Fishes from Kashmir Waters in the Indian Himalayan Region. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 15(2): 1043-1045.'),(6245,'149','A Review: Effect of Physicochemical and Hydro geochemical Factors on Arsenic Sedimentation and Mobilization','Akbare Azam, Hemant Kumar Nirala, Manisha, Sankatha Prasad Sonkar, Awanish Kumar Pandey, Najm Ul Rafi, Suresh Kumar, Awanish Kumar Singh, Vipin Kumar and Richa Trivedi ','A Review Effect of Physicochemical and Hydro geochemical Factors on Arsenic Sedimentation and Mobilization-Akbare Azam-164.pdf','',1,'The adsorption behavior of arsenic was studied experimentally for a wide pH range from 2 to 13.7. It was found that adsorption of As3+ occurs at pH 8, while adsorption of As5+ occurs at pH 4. At low pH like 2, the adsorption of As5+and As3+ is very low, while at high pH like 13.5 the adsorption rate increases. The order of adsorption of different constituents of As and aqueous media is AsO3->AsO33- H2AsO3-> H2O > H3AsO3 for As(III) and AsO43-> HAsO4- > H2AsO4-> H3AsO4> H2O for As(V). Arsenic acid (H3AsO3) adsorbed at pH 8, while arsenic acid (H3AsO4) adsorbed at pH 4. Arsenic forms in H3AsO3 and H3AsO4 are As3+ and As5+, respectively. Conjugate bases of H3AsO3 and H3AsO4 are AsO3- and AsO43-, respectively, which show increasing rates of adsorption at high pH like 13.5. Arsenic adsorption in aqueous media is aided by ions such as Cl-, HCO3-, H2PO4-, SiO32-, and PO43-. Cations such as Na+, Mg2+, and Ca2+ increase the rate of adsorption of As3+ and As5+ contents in groundwater, and this rate would be further increased with an increase in the concentration of these ions. The reason for the great adsorption of As contents is due to the electrostatic forces created on adsorbents by the origin of charge on the adsorbent surface after the adsorption of cations.','Arsenic adsorption, Arsenate (As5+) and Arsenite (As3+), Co-existingions, Electro positivity, Electrostaticforce','We have obtained many results for understanding the effects of physicochemical and hydrogeochemical factors on arsenic sedimentation and mobilization properties, and researchers have conducted numerous studies related to morphology. adsorption laws of arsenic in water. Promising conclusions:\r\n1. The morphology and adsorption of arsenic are affected by the pH of aqueous media, and with increasing pH, arsenic adsorption decreases. but the optimum pH for arsenic adsorption gives conflicting results regarding it. Under optimal environmental conditions, the adsorption of As(III) and As(V) as a function of pH gives even more different and conflicting conclusions regarding it.\r\n2. It was observed that cations facilitate the process while anions coexisting in water interfere with the arsenic adsorption process. The presence of coexisting ions in water either suppresses or promotes the adsorption behavior of arsenic. Arsenic content in groundwater As a result, As(III) adsorption is inhibited by competitive effects between anions in water such as SO42-, SiO32-, PO43-, HCO3-, Cl-, F-, and HPO42-, and they could increase the adsorption of As(III) anions to varying degrees.\r\n3. Minerals are positively correlated with arsenic content, and the Mn, Fe, and Al contents of the sediments facilitate the adsorption of arsenic. However, the adsorption of arsenic by organic matter remains a controversial issue.\r\n4. Functional groups include carboxyl, phenolic hydroxyls, alcohol extract hydroxyls, ethers, and amides. Organic particles cooperate with arsenic, giving the sediment a greater adsorption capacity so it can adsorb large amounts of arsenic.\r\n 5. Presence of Arsenic enhances the electropositivity behavior of an adsorbent surface and directly enhances the electrostatic force of a cation. This enhancement of electrostatic force has the effect of attracting and binding more arsenic anions on the surface of the adsorbent.\r\n6. Another potentially important process to increase As in water is the dissolution of iron oxide itself under reducing conditions. Research also reveals that excessive water use for irrigation and fertilizer use caused the mobilization of phosphate from fertilizers below shallow aquifers and the desorption of As through anion exchange at reactive mineral surfaces.\r\n','-','Akbare Azam, Hemant Kumar Nirala, Manisha, Sankatha Prasad Sonkar, Awanish Kumar Pandey, Najm Ul Rafi, Suresh Kumar, Awanish Kumar Singh, Vipin Kumar and Richa Trivedi (2023). A Review : Effect of Physicochemical and Hydro geochemical Factors on Arsenic Sedimentation and Mobilization. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 15(2): 1046-1052.'),(6246,'149','Molecular characterization and Efficacy Study of Different Treatments Against Cucumber mosaic virus in Pumpkin (Cucurbita moschata) ','Munmi Borah, Gowtham Kumar Routhu, Rupsanatan Mandal and Palash Deb Nath','Molecular-characterization-and-Efficacy-Study-of-Different-Treatments-Against-Cucumber-mosaic-virus-in-Pumpkin-(Cucurbita-moschata)-Munmi-Borah-165.pdf','',1,'Pumpkin (Cucurbita moschata Duch.), a prominent cucurbitaceous vegetable consumed in India is more vulnerable to viral infections under field conditions. Plant viruses are considered major constraints for cucurbit production. Management of viral diseases is crucial for increasing pumpkin yields and value. Viral diseases of pumpkins are widespread in Assam and considered as a major concern for production and productivity of the crop. Pumpkin plants showing chlorotic spots, mosaic, mottling, green vein banding, leaf deformation and blistering symptoms were collected and analyzed for presence of virus using reverse transcription PCR (RT-PCR). Sequence similarity analysis and phylogenetic studies revealed that the isolated virus was Cucumber mosaic virus of Subgroup 1B. Further, the study also constitutes to test the efficacy of different seed treatments for the inactivation of seed-borne Cucumber mosaic virus in pumpkin variety Arjuna Pumpkin. In the current study, virus inactivation treatments for seeds were prepared using potassium peroxymonosulfate, trisodium phosphate, triton × 100, sodium hypochlorite, hydrochloric acid (HCl), pseudomonas fluorescence, an untreated control, and farmer\'s practises as treatments. It was found that seeds treated with potassium peroxymonosulfate showed a lower percentage of viral infection (6.70%), followed by HCl treatment (13.48%) and Trisodium phosphate (26.93%). In addition, all other treatments observed an apparent higher viral symptom severity score index than Potassium peroxymonosulfate. Based on the results of this experiment, potassium peroxymonosulfate was found to be the most effective treatment since it considerably reduced the proportion of infected plants and promoted healthy vegetative growth.','Pumpkin, CMV, Coat protein, Seed Treatment, Seed-borne Viruses, AUDPC, PCA-biplot','The present study revealed that the viral diseases of pumpkins are widespread in Assam and considered as a major concern for production and productivity of the crop. Results from reverse transcription PCR and molecular characterization indicates the presence of CMV infection in pumpkin and generated an amplicon size of 699bp in 1.2% agarose gel electrophoresis. It was not possible to establish a correlation between the type of symptom, which might not act as a reliable indicator for a particular virus and for this, molecular characterization is essential. In this study we aimed to test the efficacy of different seed treatments in controlling the virus infection in pumpkin. The results states that 2% Potassium peroxymonosulfate is the most effective treatment against mixed virus infection viruses in pumpkin crops. This information is, therefore, a valuable contribution for the management of viral diseases in cucurbits of Assam, India. The management strategies against viruses in plants also depend on existing viruses, seasons of severe infection by those viruses and the weeds that act as alternate hosts. As mentioned here, the important role that seeds play in virus spread is recognized by researchers and evaluating the optimum dosage and duration of seed treatments for different seed-virus combinations is important without damaging seed vigour and health.','-','Munmi Borah, Gowtham Kumar Routhu, Rupsanatan Mandal and Palash Deb Nath (2023). Molecular characterization and Efficacy Study of Different Treatments Against Cucumber mosaic virus in Pumpkin (Cucurbita moschata). Biological Forum – An International Journal, 15(2): 1053-1063.'),(6247,'149','Bioaccumulation of Heavy Metals in Three different Edible Crab Species at Nellore Coast of Andhra Pradesh in Southeast Coast of India','Vardi Venkateswarlu and Chenji Venkatrayulu','Bioaccumulation-of-Heavy-Metals-in-Three-different-Edible-Crab-Species-at-Nellore-Coast-of-Andhra-Pradesh-in-Southeast-Coast-of-India-Vardi-Venkateswarlu-166.pdf','',1,'Bioaccumulation in the animal food chain is contaminated with different heavy metals in the coastal environments. The natural aquatic environments are contaminated through heavy metals and affect the aquatic biota negatively which possesses considerable environmental risks and hazards. These heavy metals are the most serious pollutants in the environment due to their toxicity, persistence and ability to concentrate along the food chain. In the present study three different crab species Portunus sanguinolentus, Portunus armatus and Scylla serrata were collected from two different sampling sites (S1&S2) at Nellore coastal region in Southeast coast of India. The results show that, the different crab species have significant (P<0.05) variations in metals concentrations between the organs and clearly indicate that the biomagnifications of heavy metals are accursed in different coastal crab species. Challenges in this area include lack of defined threshold levels of metals in effluents and their removal processes from the water bodies. This study throws light on the real scenario of bioaccumulation of heavy metals through food chain, taking crabs as bioindicator. Suggesting the authorities regarding the threshold values of heavy metals in effluent concentration from various sources and proposing various techniques to remove heavy metals from the water bodies would be the future of this study.','Bioaccumulation, Heavy metals, Crab species, Pollution, Hazards, Nellore','The present study concluded that the presence of heavy metals As, Pb, Fe, Mn, Cu and Zn in two different tissues (gills, hepatopancreas) of three-spotted crab Portunus sanguinolentus, blue crab Portunus armatus and, mud crab Scylla Serrata were observed. The selected area has heavy metals contamination and accumulation mainly due to discharges of the thermal power station effluents and shipping activities viz., fertilizers, coal, and iron powder. This assessment shows that the most noteworthy mean metal levels were found in hepatopancreas than the gills of the crab species dependent on their living zone. Crabs can be utilized to build up a delicate bio-indicator to gauge the substantial metal contamination for biological and human wellbeing parameters. Without such a database it will be hard to assess and decipher future outcomes from the coast region or to recognize the spot with upsetting patterns in contamination levels. Finally, there is a need to create contamination control measures to ensure oceanic biological system wellbeing; likewise there is a need to give early notice signs to conceivable human introduction.','-','Vardi Venkateswarlu and Chenji Venkatrayulu (2023). Bioaccumulation of Heavy Metals in Three Different Edible Crab Species at Nellore Coast of Andhra Pradesh in Southeast Coast of India. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 15(2): 1064-1069.'),(6248,'149','Promising Effects of Solanum virginianum L Seed Extracts against the Oral Pathogens','Rajaselvam J., Sobiya M. and Elaya Perumal U.','Promising-Effects-of-Solanum-virginianum-L-Seed-Extracts--Against-the-Oral-Pathogens-Elaya-Perumal-U-167.pdf','',1,'Dental caries is one of the emerging diseases in the world. It can be treated with antibiotics, but consumption of such synthetic antibiotics often could cause adverse effects on human health. To resolve these issues researchers, search natural resources for alternative sources. This study was done for analysing the antibacterial activity of Solanum virginianum L. seed extracts against the oral pathogens Staphylococcus mutans, Lactobacillus acidophilus, Pseudomonas aeruginosa, Streptococcus oralis, and Streptococcus mitis. In this study, S. virginianum L. seeds were collected and shade dried before making powder, and then the Acetone, Ethanol and Water were used for the extraction. Primary phytochemical constituents of the extracts were analysed and the antimicrobial activity was tested against the oral pathogens. The presence of phytochemicals could be the reason for the antimicrobial activity. Among all extracts, the aqueous extract showed the lowest activity against all the used bacteria. Acetone extract showed a maximum inhibitory zone against the bacteria S. mitis (35 mm) than the others. This study proves that S. virginianum seed extracts have active components to treat oral caries. ','Antimicrobial activity, Dental Cariogenic Bacteria, Dental pathogens, oral caries, phytochemical, Solanum virginianum','Nowadays herbal medicines are gaining popularity due to their cost-effectiveness, availability and effectiveness against a wide variety of microbial infections and eco-friendly nature. The results of our study show that Solanum virginianum L seed exhibits antimicrobial activity against dental cariogenic microbial flora such as Streptococcus mitis, Lactobacillus acidophilus, Streptococcus mutans, Streptococcus oralis and Pseudomonas aeruginosa. The results of our study revealed that the seed of S. virginianum L shows the presence of phytochemical compounds (flavonoids, saponins, coumarins, quinones, steroids, glycosides, proteins and carbohydrates). This study emphasized the promising cariogenic antimicrobial effect of S. virginianum L seed against the five important oral microorganisms compared to standard antimicrobial medicine. These findings give scientific insight into the traditional use of Solanum virginianum L seed as a mouthwash, a practice believed to prevent dental caries.','-','Rajaselvam J., Sobiya M. and Elaya Perumal U. (2023). Promising Effects of Solanum virginianum L Seed Extracts against the Oral Pathogens. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 15(2): 1070-1074.'),(6249,'149','Isolation and Characterization of Bioactive Phytoconstituents in the Medicinal Plant Amaranthus viridis L.','Helen P.A.M. and Bency B.J.','Isolation-and-Characterization-of-Bioactive-Phytoconstituents-in-the-Medicinal-Plant-Amaranthus-viridis-L.-Bency-BJ-168.pdf','',1,'Owing to the fact that plant extracts exist as a mixture of bioactive compounds with dissimilar polarities, their segregation remained a great challenge for the process of identification and characterization of bioactive compounds. The current study was designed to isolate and identify bioactive phytoconstituents in the medicinal plant Amaranthus viridis L. The leaf methanol and stem ethyl acetate extracts were subjected to TLC, where chloroform: methanol (95:5) showed spot with minimum Rf value 0.3. Maximum antidiabetic activity was exhibited by LMF8 fraction and highest antiurolithiatic activity was observed in SEAF12 fraction of stem ethyl acetate fractions obtained from column chromatography. The GC-MS chromatograms of fraction LMF8 contained Decane, 1,1-Diethoxy-(100%) and the stem ethyl acetate fraction SEAF12 exhibited the presence of Epibromohydrine (100%). Decane, 1,1-Diethoxy- and Epibromohydrine compounds obtained from the fractions have been confirmed by NMR spectroscopy analysis. The mass spectrum of compound LMF8 showed a strong molecular ion peak at m/z between 230-231 with molecular weight of 230.392 which corresponds to the molecular formula C14H30O2 of Decane 1,1-Diethoxy while compound SEAF12 contained Epibromohydrine. In this study, two compounds namely Decane 1,1-Diethoxy and Epibromohydrine had been isolated and identified from the bioactive fractions from A. viridis, which has no reports of its toxicity to human, based on literature. Decane 1, 1-Diethoxy and Epibromohydrine have also proved its potential bioactivity against diabetes and urolithiasis respectively.','Amaranthus viridis, GCMS, TLC, GC-MS, Decane 1,1-Diethoxy and Epibromohydrine','Though isolation of bioactive compounds from their mixtures in plant material and determination is still challenging, practically many of them have been purified by the combination of thin layer and column chromatographic techniques and identified by GC-MS, FTIR, NMR and mass spectroscopy. In this study, two compounds namely Decane 1,1-Diethoxy and Epibromohydrine had been isolated and identified from the bioactive fractions from A. viridis, which has no reports of its toxicity to human, based on literature. In the current research, the two isolated compounds Decane 1, 1-Diethoxy and Epibromohydrine have also proved its potential bioactivity against diabetes and urolithiasis respectively. Additionally, this is the first time based on literature that these two compounds have been isolated from A. viridis.','-','Helen P.A.M. and Bency B.J. (2023). Isolation and Characterization of Bioactive Phytoconstituents in the Medicinal Plant Amaranthus viridis L. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 15(2): 1075-1085.'),(6250,'149','Effect of Bio-stimulants on Growth, Development and Yield of Tomato (Lycopersicon esculentum L.)','Gudapati Ashoka Chakravarthy, K. Krishna Mohan, D. Saritha, T. Chandrashekhar and Godasu Pradeep Kumar ','Effect of Bio-stimulants on Growth, Development and Yield of Tomato (Lycopersicon esculentum L.)-Gudapati Ashoka Chakravarthy-169.pdf','',1,'Biostimulants are products that reduce the need for fertilizers and increase plant growth, resistance to water and abiotic stresses. In small concentrations, these substances are efficient, favoring the good performance of the plant’s vital processes, and allowing high yields and good quality products. In addition, biostimulants applied to plants enhance nutrition efficiency, abiotic stress tolerance and/or plant quality traits, regardless of its nutrient contents. A field experiment was conducted during December 2018 to April 2019 at the Students farm, Department of Agriculture Science & Rural Development, Loyola Academy to know the effect of bio-stimulants on growth and yield of Tomato hybrid US-440. The experiment was laid out in Randomized Block Design (RBD) and the treatments comprised of T1- Folicist @ 3 ml/L, T2 – Fylloton @ 3 ml/L, T3 – Globalga @ 3 ml/L, T4 – Tata Bahar @ 2.5 ml/L, T5 – Neo-Alpha @ 2.5 ml/L, T6 – Daiwik @ 2.5 ml/L, T7 – Recommended dose of NPK, T8 – Control. Biostimulants were applied as foliar spray at pre-flowering, flowering and fruit setting stages. From the results of the experiment, it was observed that all the growth parameters i.e., plant height (71.5, 69.5 cm), number of branches (6.8 and 6.5) and number of leaves/plant (285 and 280) were significantly increased by the application of Folicist @ 3.0 ml/L and Tata Bahar @ 2.5 ml/L compared to other treatments and control. Same treatment application resulted in significant increase in terms of number of flowers/plant (71 and 68), number of fruits/plant (42 and 39) and % fruit set (77% and 75%). The highest number of fruits/plant, fruit weight (105 and 101 g), yield/plant (5.8 kg) were recorded in foliar application of Folicist @ 3 ml/L closely followed by Tata Bahar (5.6 kg) and Daiwik (5.4 kg) and the lowest values were observed in control (3.8 kg). Application of biostimulants significantly increased the Total Soluble Solids (TSS) and lycopene content of fruits.','Biostimulants, Growth and yield, Tomato','From the present experimental findings, it can be concluded that application of biostimulants along with balanced application of inorganic nutrients will help in increasing growth, yield and quality of tomato and fetch remunerative price to the farmers. ','-','Gudapati Ashoka Chakravarthy, K. Krishna Mohan, D. Saritha, T. Chandrashekhar and Godasu Pradeep Kumar (2023). Effect of Bio-stimulants on Growth, Development and Yield of Tomato (Lycopersicon esculentum L.). Biological Forum – An International Journal, 15(2): 1086-1089.'),(6251,'149','Marine Algal Species as Biosorbents for Sequestering Toxic Heavy Metals: A Review','Waghmode A.V., Shinde H.P., Patil M.S. and Chavan S.N.','Marine Algal Species as Biosorbents for Sequestering Toxic Heavy Metals A Review-Shinde HP-170.pdf','',1,'Seaweed biomass; especially marine macro algae have been studied for their potential to remove the heavy metals from aqueous solution which attributed their use in environmental cleanup. The prevalent remediation procedures include oxidation/reduction, chemical precipitation, ion exchange, reverse osmosis etc. However, researchers and environmental engineers are hoping this phenomenon will provide an economical alternative to get rid of toxic heavy metals from industrialized wastewater so as to aid in environmental remediation. The point sources of toxic heavy metals are industrial effluents coming from various industries like leather, paper, dairy, tannery, electrical, sugarcane, automobiles, mining etc. Such toxic heavy metals can be removed by using biosorption techniques with the help of seaweeds; mostly macro algal species; as these are abundantly found growing on the areas like rocky coast. This attribute of being used as biosorbents make them cost effective and ecofriendly alternative for conventionally used costly techniques. Earlier research reports have contributed in reviewing the utilization of major marine macro algal species for detoxification of polluted water bodies. Besides the conventional techniques; the present review article highlights the use of marine macro algal species as biosorbents for removal of toxic heavy metals along with the major parameters influencing the process of biosorption.','Marine macro algae, biosorption, toxic heavy metals','The biosorption techniques using marine algal species, is an effective tool for removal of toxic heavy metals from the different aqueous solutions and water bodies. Today world is witnessing industrial and biotechnological advancements in bioremediation process; However, numerous challenges still need to addressed; such as release of novel toxic elements, reliable methods to detect, monitoring and eco-friendly approaches for removal of such pollutants etc. In this context, the multidisciplinary research involving all stakeholders and policymakers; is needed in future. At global level; these considerations will be helpful to highlight degradation and or removal of life-threatening heavy metals and other pollutants from environment at a global level.','-','Waghmode A.V., Shinde H.P., Patil M.S. and Chavan S.N. (2023). Marine Algal Species as Biosorbents for Sequestering Toxic Heavy Metals: A Review. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 15(2): 1090-1096.'),(6252,'149','Taxonomic Studies on Three Species of Genus Asota Hübner (Erebidae: Lepidoptera) from Himachal Pradesh, India','P.C. Pathania, Amit Katewa and Rachita Sood','Taxonomic Studies on Three Species of Genus Asota Hübner (Erebidae Lepidoptera) from Himachal Pradesh, India-P.C. Pathania-171.pdf','',1,'The present study has been undertaken from 04 districts i.e., Kangra, Mandi, Bilaspur and Hamirpur of state Himachal Pradesh. In all, 03 species i.e., Asota ficus (Fabricius), A. caricae Fabricius and A. plaginota Butler of genus Asota Hübner have been collected and taxonomically studied. The details on their distribution, diagnosis, adult description and their male and female genitalia have been given. The coloured photographs of adult moths, labial palpi, legs, wings and genitalia have also been given in the form of plates. The dichotomous key for these species is also provided.','Asota ficus (Fabricius), A. caricae Fabricius, A. plaginota Butler, Lepidoptera, Erebidae, Punjab','The surveys from 05 different localities of 04 districts Himachal Pradesh led to the collection of 47 examples (25 males and 22 females) of 03 species i.e., Asota ficus (Fabricius), A. caricae Fabricius and A. plaginota Butler of genus Asota Hübner have been identified. The species A. ficus is more in abundance and A. caricae is less represented in the areas. All the species are congeneric to the genus Asota Huber showing that male genitalia valve are simple and elongated, somewhat expanded apically with a single harpe at the end of sacculus. Aedeagus is short, broad, the vesica large, bearing a small group of cornuti or a single cornutus. The coremata are usually small and well developed and female genitalia in which the ductus bursae is poorely sclerotised towards base and also forewings with closed discal cell is about half the length and aerole is also present.','-','P.C. Pathania, Amit Katewa and Rachita Sood (2023). Taxonomic Studies on Three Species of Genus Asota Hübner (Erebidae: Lepidoptera) from Himachal Pradesh, India. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 15(2): 1097-1100.'),(6253,'149','Estimation of Total Phenolic and Flavonoid Content and Antioxidant Activity in Catharanthus roseus L. (Alba) Plant Extract','Tolambiya Priyanka, Jagetiya B.L. and Mathur Sujata','Estimation of Total Phenolic and Flavonoid Content and Antioxidant Activity in Catharanthus roseus L. (Alba) Plant Extract-Tolambiya Priyanka-172.pdf','',1,'The Phenolic compounds are important plant metabolite which have redox properties liable for antioxidant activity. The hydroxyl group of phenolic compounds facilitate free radical scavenging. The Total Phenolic Content of each extract of leaf, stem, root, and flower were determined by the Folin-Ciocalteau method and calculated as Tannic acid equivalents (TAE) g-1. This has also been used to compute antioxidants in multifaceted biological structures. DPPH method is being used to measure the antioxidant activity of methanolic extract. The odd electron in the DPPH free radical gives a strong absorption maximum at 517 nm and gives purple color. These leaf extract have maximum phenolic content 1378 µg and for Flower extract it is 1185 µg from regression curve. The Total flavonoids were found in leaf and Flower extract are 0.60% and 1.70% respectively. The antioxidant activity of leaf extract was derived from a calibration curve (Y=0.2934x + 40.605, R2 = 0.9079) and for flower extract (Y=12.982x – 415.8, R2 = 0.9365) from this calibration curve. So R2 value is maximum for Leaf and Flower extract. The IC50 value of stem sample is 688.47µg/ml therefore inhibition activity or antiradical efficiency is maximum of stem extract of Catharanthus roseus L. (Alba). By comparing the correlation coefficients (R-values), it could be suggested that phenolic and flavonoid groups are highly accountable for the antioxidant activity. This study can also prove by comparing antidiabetic drug metformin and nifedipine, the aqueous extract of the leaves of Catharanthus roseus by conducting experiment on sugar induced wistar rats, Catharanthus roseus leaves extract demonstrate better antioxidant activity in the treatment of diabetes and hypertension.','Antioxidant activity, Total phenolic content, Regression curve, IC50 value, Antiradical efficiency, 2, 2-diphenyl- 1-picrylhydrazyl (DPPH), R2 ','The phenolic and flavonoid groups are highly responsible for the antioxidant activity. So, there is linear correlation between Total Flavonoids, Total phenolic content, and antioxidant activity. In this study, antioxidant activity indicates extract of leaf and flower sample with higher phenolic and flavonoid contents could be a significant source of natural antioxidants. But the IC50 value is less of stem sample. The lower the IC50 value, the more potent is the substance at scavenging DPPH and this indicate higher antioxidant activity.','-','Tolambiya Priyanka, Jagetiya B.L., Mathur Sujata (2023). Estimation of Total Phenolic and Flavonoid Content and Antioxidant Activity in Catharanthus roseus L. (Alba) Plant Extract. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 15(2): 1101-1106.'),(6254,'149','Reactive Oxygen Species Play a Role in the Infection of Rice by Bacterial Leaf Blight Pathogen Xanthomonas oryzae pv. oryzae','Swathi S. Patil, M.K. Prasannakumar and Ramu S. Vemanna','Reactive Oxygen Species Play a Role in the Infection of Rice by Bacterial Leaf Blight Pathogen Xanthomonas oryzae pv. oryzae- Swathi-173.pdf','',1,'Xanthomonas oryzae pv. oryzae (Xoo) causing bacterial leaf blight of rice is a global problem in rice production. Reactive oxygen species (ROS) are produced as a normal product of plant cellular metabolism. Various environmental stresses including pathogen attack trigger excessive production of ROS causing progressive oxidative damage leading to programmed cell death and ultimately activating the host defense responses. Inoculation of Xoo by leaf clipping method resulted in more lesion length in the susceptible cultivar TN-1 compared to resistant cultivar BPT-5204. Further, quantification of ROS viz., Hydrogen peroxide (H2O2) and Superoxide (O2¯) by 3, 3- Diaminobenzidine (DAB) and Nitro blue tetrazolium (NBT) assays respectively showed increased levels of both H2O2 and O2- in the resistant cultivar BPT-5204 at 6 days post inoculation (dpi) and it was highest in the leaf tissues collected at 10dpi. The levels of H2O2 and O2- decreased significantly after 2 dpi in the control plants of both cultivars BPT-5204 and TN-1. In the susceptible cultivar TN-1, the levels of H2O2 and O2- decreased significantly from 4dpi. There was 78% fold increase in the production of H2O2 and 70% fold increase in the production of O2- in the resistant cultivar compared to the susceptible cultivar. Oxidative burst or the rapid production of ROS in response to pathogenic invasion aids the host plant in establishing various defensive barriers against infections. As a result, pathogen infections cause rapid accumulation of ROS, which are important in restricting pathogenic entry, inducing signal transduction of various defence responses or programmed cell death. We speculate that the increased production of the ROS viz., H2O2 and O2- in the resistant variety trigger the defense pathways in the host and thereby limit the disease.','Xanthomonas oryzae pv. oryzae, Reactive oxygen species, hydrogen peroxide, superoxide','In nature, plants develop in complex and adaptive environments. Plants must therefore respond efficiently to environmental stressors to maintain homeostasis and enhance their fitness. ROS are considered a double-edged sword for plant life since they regulate various processes such as cell wall synthesis, defense against pathogens, plant aging and programmed cell death, and the behavior of stomata (Chitranashi et al., 2022). Reactive oxygen species (ROS) function as critical, fast-acting orchestrators that link biotic responses to plant homeostasis and development (Berrios and Rentsch 2022). Plants respond to pathogen invasion through activation of oxidative burst, which leads to the production of reactive oxygen species (ROS), including superoxide (O2) and hydrogen peroxide (H2O2). The production of reactive oxygen species (ROS) is one of the earliest cellular responses following successful pathogen recognition (Mittler, 2017). Thus, ROS production during oxidative burst helps the plants to restrict further spread of the invading pathogens by inducing HR or plant immune responses (Durrant and Dong 2004). We quantified the ROS production in resistant as well as susceptible rice cultivars, particularly in the production of H2O2 and O2 during rice: Xoo interaction. The resistant cultivar BPT-5204 produced H2O2 and O2 significantly higher compared with the susceptible cultivar TN-1. This may be due to Xa genes present in BPT-5204 that contribute to the oxidative burst during pathogenesis by Xoo and thereby reducing the infection rate of Xoo. ROS are regarded as beneficial messengers that trigger oxidative signalling, systemic acquired acclimation, and systemic acquired resistance. Despite the scientific progress made during the last two decades, the mode of action of ROS is still far from being fully understood. Further elucidation of the genes involved in ROS production and signaling provide doorway to develop varieties resistant to bacterial infection. ','-','Swathi S. Patil, M.K. Prasannakumar and Ramu S. Vemanna (2023). Reactive Oxygen Species Play a Role in the Infection of Rice by Bacterial Leaf Blight Pathogen Xanthomonas oryzae pv. oryzae. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 15(2): 1107-1113.'),(6255,'149','Evaluation of Antioxidant and Antimicrobial Potential of Herbal Phenolics','Jyotsna Anandrao Saonere, Madhuri A. Channawar, Nitin I. Kochar, Deepak Mohale and Anil V. Chandewar\r\n','Evaluation of Antioxidant and Antimicrobial Potential of Herbal Phenolics-Jyotsna Anandrao Saonere-174.pdf','',1,'Antimicrobial resistance is the big challenge across the globe. Infectious and non infectious diseases are the consequences of microbial invasion of human biological system. Worldwide infectious diseases are the second leading cause of death and disability. Antimicrobial resistance is the consequence of inappropriate use of antibiotics in noninfectious disease. Herbal bioactives are the major source of new antimcrobial molecules. Plants are the rich source of secondary metabolites proved therapeutic potential in many diseases. Aim of present study was to evaluate the antioxidant and antimicrobial activity of different extracts of C. sinensis. Total Phenolic content of water, hydroalcoholic, alcoholic and ethyl acetate extract was determined by fiolin- Ciocalteu method. Antioxidant activity of all extracts were determined by DPPH method. Antimicrobial activity of all extracts was determined by agar well diffusion method using gram-positive, gram negative bacteria and fungus species. Total Phenolic content was found highest in ethyl acetate fraction. Antioxidant activity of all extract was found highest at a concentration of 50 µg/ml. optimum free radical scavenging effect was found in ethyl acetate fraction. Most significant antimicrobial activity was found against A. niger, while antimicrobial activity was not found against C. albicans, E. coli and P. vulgaris.\r\nFree radical scavenging result revealed all the extract possess good antioxidant activity. Amongst all extracts, ethyl acetate extract possess optimum free radical scavenging effect Antimicrobial effect was determined by using seven strain of microorganisms. Minimum inhibitory concentration (MIC) found at 200 µg/ml. The mean diameter of zone of inhibition (ZOI) was found to be dose dependent, maximum ZOI found at 400 µg/ml against A. niger staphylococcus aureus, Bacillus sustilis, S. epidermidis. Antioxidant and antimicrobial result reveal that C. sinensis could be a good antioxidant and novel safe and effective anti microbial agent could be use in treatment of many infectious disease as a chemotherapeutic agent.\r\n','Free radical scavenging, antioxidants, bioactive, infectious disease','The total phenolic content result showed that all extracts possess good phenolic content. Free radical scavenging results revealed that all the extracts possess good antioxidant activity. Amongst all extracts, ethyl acetate extract possesses the optimal free radical scavenging effect The antimicrobial effect was determined by using seven strains of microorganisms. Maximum ZOI was found at a concentration of 400 µg/ml. against A. niger, S. aureus, B. substilis, and S. epidermidis. A more potent antimicrobial effect was found in the alcoholic and ethyl acetate extracts against A. niger, and S. epidermidis than B. substilis, and S. aureus. Antimicrobial activity was not found against E. coli, C. albicans, and P. vulgaris. Antioxidant and antimicrobial results reveal that C. sinensis could be a potent antioxidant and a novel, safe, and effective antimicrobial agent that could be used in the treatment of many infectious diseases as a chemotherapeutic agent and for topical skin infections.','-','Jyotsna Anandrao Saonere, Madhuri A. Channawar, Nitin I. Kochar, Deepak Mohale and Anil V. Chandewar (2023). Evaluation of Antioxidant and Antimicrobial Potential of Herbal Phenolics. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 15(2): 1114-1118.'),(6256,'150','Evidence of Post-translational Modifications of Proteins in Clinical Samples of Stroke after Decompressive Craniectomy','Katta Sireesha, Dulam Vandana, K.V.V. Satyanarayana Murthy and Nakka Venkata Prasuja','Evidence of Post-translational Modifications of Proteins in Clinical Samples of Stroke after Decompressive Craniectomy-Katta Sireesha-4.pdf','',1,'Stroke is the leading cause of mortality and disability the world over. In India, stroke stands as the fourth leading cause of death. Currently, no treatment strategies exist for stroke except for thrombolytics. Stroke pathology is complex that activates multiple mechanisms of cell death pathways, thus requiring extensive investigation. The present study focused on the activation of post-translational modifications (PTMs) of proteins that decides the fate of neuronal death, such as protein ubiquitination, SUMOylation, and phosphorylation, in clinical samples of stroke collected from patients who underwent decompressive craniotomy or craniectomy (DC). Tissues of brain cortex were collected from patients after emergency DC with large Middle Cerebral Artery (MCA) infarcts. We used brain cortex tissue samples collected after MCA occlusion in rats to analyze protein ubiquitination. We performed histological analysis using hematoxylin and eosin and immunofluorescence staining. We report the following critical findings in clinical samples of stroke: 1. Altered morphological features of necrosis, 2. A pronounced expression of SUMO-2/3 protein confined to the nucleus, indicating a possible role in modulating gene expression, 3. Accumulation of abnormal or ubiquitinated proteins, 4. Phosphorylation of eukaryotic initiation factor 2 alpha (peIF2α) is one of the hallmarks of endoplasmic reticulum (ER) stress or unfolded protein response. The present study using clinical samples collectively indicates that PTMs are associated with stroke-induced brain damage and provide insights into understanding stroke pathophysiology and help develop newer therapeutic strategies aiming at stroke/cerebral ischemia to curtail brain damage. ','Stroke, Ubiquitin, SUMO, peIF2α, Neuroprotection','PTMs critically regulate the fate of neuronal cell death and survival in the post-stroke brain. Stroke leads to protein abnormality and hampers the protein quality control mechanism, which is detrimental to the survival of neurons. Our study in human stroke samples (brain cortex) provides substantial evidence and a possible role for PTMs such as ubiquitination, eIF2α Phosphorylation (a marker of ER stress or UPR), and SUMO-2/3) that play a critical role in regulating post-ischemic neuronal death. This evidence provides better insight into understanding the pathophysiology underlying stroke damage.','-','Katta Sireesha, Dulam Vandana, K.V.V. Satyanarayana Murthy and Nakka Venkata Prasuja (2023). Evidence of Post-translational Modifications of Proteins in Clinical Samples of Stroke after Decompressive Craniectomy. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 15(3): 21-26.'),(6257,'149','Effect of Different Doses of Sodium Azide on Cytogenetical and Biochemical changes in Fenugreek (Trigonella foenum graecum)','Reema Srivastava, Ritu Jain, Aparna Rathore and Anugunja Verma','Effect of Different Doses of Sodium Azide on Cytogenetical and Biochemical changes in Fenugreek (Trigonella foenum graecum)-Reema Srivastava-175.pdf','',1,'Sodium azide is a popular plant mutagen. The present study was conducted to assess the mutagenic/cytogenetic changes in root tip cells in the local variety of fenugreek (Trigonella foenum graecum). Seeds of Trigonella were treated with various concentrations of sodium azide (0.1%, 0.2%, 0.3% and 0.4%) at room temperature for 3 hours and were germinated. The treated root tip cells exhibited abnormalities such as stickiness, laggards, unequal separations and bridges. The other parameters of the study included biochemical variations like protein, carbohydrate and proline variations.','Chromosomal abnormalities, fenugreek, stickiness, biochemical variations, chemical mutagen','The present study considered the mutagenic effects of sodium azide on germination percentage, chromosomal structure and biochemical variations like protein, carbohydrate and proline content in the plant- Trigonella foenum graecum. The results showed that sodium azide mutagen is effective in inducing various abnormalities such as stickiness, unequal separations, laggards and bridges in Trigonella foenum graecum, with an increase in the dose of sodium azide, which increased the number of root tip cells showing abnormal metaphase. Similarly, the increase in the proline content also shows a dose dependent increase. The study positively concluded that sodium azide could be employed to improve protein and carbohydrate content in Trigonella foenum graecum at a particular concentration. Sodium azide, as a mutagen is effective in inducing various mutagenic effects. These mutagenic effects can be used to study the nature and function of genes so as to improvement the commercial applicability of cash crops. With a future perspective, these mutagenic improvements can be brought about by the increase in the nutritional composition of the plants and also other economical aspect like increase in oil, starch, sugar content in plant to name a few. ','-','Reema Srivastava, Ritu Jain, Aparna Rathore and Anugunja Verma (2023). Effect of Different Doses of Sodium Azide on Cytogenetical and Biochemical changes in Fenugreek (Trigonella foenum graecum). Biological Forum – An International Journal, 15(2): 1119-1123.'),(6258,'149','Studies on Improving Storability and Quality of Harvested Guava Fruits using Chemicals','Pooja Singh, Navin Singh and Sampurna Nand Singh','Studies on Improving Storability and Quality of Harvested Guava Fruits using Chemicals-Sampurna Nand Singh-176.pdf','',1,'Guava is a highly nutritious fruit and is widely used by consumers and the food industry for a variety of applications. It is one of the most important and favorite fruit of tropical and sub-tropical region but due to its perishable nature, it is difficult to store the fruits for longer duration at room temperature. In order to use the fruit in processing industries for proper utilization of fruits and for making orchard more profitable, it is necessary to increase the shelf life by possible convenient means. The present investigation was conducted to observe the effect of different concentration of Calcium chloride, Oxalic acid, Naphthalene acetic acid and Salicylic acid on physico-chemical characteristics and overall acceptability of guava cv. L-49 stored under ambient storage condition for 12 days and observation was recorded at three days intervals on 0, 3, 6, 9 and 12th day of storage. Among all the treatments, T3 treatment (CaCl2; 3%) followed by T12 (Salicylic acid; 300 ppm) was found effective in reducing the physiological loss in weight, shrinkage and decay percentage of the fruits along with maintaining higher TSS, tritatable acidity, ascorbic acid, total sugar, reducing sugar, non reducing sugar and sensory characters up to 9 days of storage under ambient storage as compare to other treatments. Hence, it can be concluded that post-harvest treatment of calcium chloride (3%) and Salicylic acid (300 ppm) was effective in extending the shelf life, maintaining physico-chemical attributes and sensory quality of guava cv. L-49 under ambient storage condition. ','Guava, quality, shelf life, processing, physico-chemical, physiological loss','The stage of maturity or ripeness at harvest and postharvest treatments with Calcium chloride, Oxalic acid, Naphthalene acetic acid and Salicylic acid had a significant effect on fruit quality and shelf life of guava cv. L-49 stored under ambient storage condition for 12 days and observation was recorded at three days intervals on 0, 3, 6, 9 and 12th day of storage. However, maturity stage at harvest strongly influenced the ripening behaviour of guava fruits as evidenced by changes in firmness, acidity, ascorbic acid and sugar content. In the present study, it could be concluded that post-harvest treatment of calcium chloride (3%) and Salicylic acid (300 ppm) was effective in extending the shelf life, maintaining physico-chemical attributes and sensory quality of guava cv. L-49 under ambient storage condition. ','-','Pooja Singh, Navin Singh and Sampurna Nand Singh (2023). Studies on Improving Storability and Quality of Harvested Guava Fruits using Chemicals. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 15(2): 1124-1133.'),(6259,'149','A Survey on the Benefits Gained from the Satajan Wetland by the Local Community with Special Reference to the Floral and Faunal Diversity','Kangkana Lekharu, Rafia Farooquee and Mridusmita Dutta','A Survey on the Benefits Gained from the Satajan Wetland by the Local Community with Special Reference to the Floral and Faunal Diversity-Rafia Farooquee-177.pdf','',1,'The meeting points between the terrestrial and aquatic habitats are referred to as wetlands. The wetlands are very much unique and naturally productive ecosystems present on this earth. Satajan is a wetland which is situated in the Lakhimpur district in the floodplain of Ranganadi river at an altitude of 94m. Various studies and papers summarized that the wetland harbour’s almost about 13 species of migratory birds, 32 species of local birds, 262 species of vascular plants as well as plants having medicinal values. Fish diversity is also remarkable in this wetland. A total of about 42 species of fish have been recorded from this wetland. So, the main aim of this paper is to focus on the benefits received by the local community from this wetland with special reference to the floral and faunal diversity present in the concerned wetland. A survey was done in the Ujani Miri Gaon, the closest village which is in the west of the wetland. During the survey we faced some challenges, as the people of the surveyed village were not that much educated so had to make them understand the aim of our survey and motivate them to give the answers of our question. Moreover, the communication problem of the village cannot be denied.','Satajan wetland, Ecosystem, Diversity, Benefits, Floral, Faunal, Community','At present the impact of wetland is very much in the lives of all the living organisms and the future of these organisms too some extent also depends on these wetlands. Currently we can consider wetland as one of the most important and diverse ecosystems present on this earth. Wetland also help to meet various future challenges like – food, water, flood, climate change resilience etc. Though the Satajan wetland is a small wetland in terms of area, but it harbours a plenty of diverse flora and fauna as well as it provides benefits to the local community dwelling around the wetland. Although many conservative strategies are made in order to protect this wetland, but we need to create awareness among the people world-wide about this beautiful nature’s gift. A significant place of harbouring beautiful migratory birds, fishes, medicinal plants and so on. The wetland is really a hot area of research and future researches is much needed in order to know more about the wetland as well as to protect this wetland, as it is one of the most important wetlands in that region.','-','Kangkana Lekharu, Rafia Farooquee and Mridusmita Dutta (2023). A Survey on the Benefits Gained from the Satajan Wetland by the Local Community with Special Reference to the Floral and Faunal Diversity. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 15(2): 1134-1146.'),(6260,'149','-','-','Evaluation of Anti-diabetic and Hypolipidemic Activity of Drypetes roxburghii Roots-Isha Talwar-178.pdf','',1,'-','-','-','-','-'),(6261,'150','DNA Fingerprinting and Molecular Characterization of Newly Developed Maize Inbreds based on Microsatellite Markers','Jyoti Sahu, Deepika Parte, Priya Gupta, Naresh Kumar Sahu, J.K. Tiwari, S.K. Sinha and Prabharani Chaudhari\r\n','DNA Fingerprinting and Molecular Characterization of Newly Developed Maize Inbreds based on Microsatellite Markers-Jyoti Sahu-5.pdf','',1,'Identification of elite and diverse parents is a critical step in the process of releasing new hybrids. DNA fingerprinting and characterization of germplasm plays a significant role in plant breeding for varietal identification where, molecular markers have proven to be very effective. The current study was performed at the Plant Molecular Biology and Biotechnology Laboratory, RMDCARS, Ambikapur (Chhattisgarh). A total of 27 SSR primers were used to check the polymorphism of eighteen newly developed maize inbreds, eight of which were found to be polymorphic and were subsequently used for DNA fingerprinting and molecular characterization. A total of 25 alleles were obtained using these polymorphic SSR primers, with an average of 3.13 alleles per primer. The PIC value for these primers ranged from 0.10 to 0.82 where, highest value obtained for primer bnlg 1867. The fingerprinting for each inbreds with unique profile identity (ID) were generated using different banding pattern and variation in allele size. These fingerprint data provide distinct allelic profiles for each inbred lines of maize. A dendrogram was also prepared for all these inbreds using the unweighted pair group method with arithmetic mean (UPGMA). It separated them into five major clusters at nearly 84% genetic similarity indicated the existence of genetic variation among the observed inbreds. This enables their further utilization for generating heterotic hybrids in future breeding programmes. Among all the inbreds studied, IAMI-57 and IAMI-43-1 were found to be more genetically diverse. The polymorphic SSR markers facilitated discrimination among genotypes and provided valuable information for future use in improvement of these genomic resources. ','DNA Fingerprinting, Microsatellite, SSR, Maize, Molecular characterization','The DNA fingerprinting catalogue of maize inbreds were generated using different banding pattern and variation in allele size. These fingerprint data provide distinct allelic profiles that can be used to precisely determine genotypic at any stage of crop growing cycle. Furthermore, the SSR markers based characterization facilitated discrimination among all the eighteen maize inbreds where, inbreds viz., IAMI-57 and IAMI-43-1 were found to be more genetically diverse. Though, the data were generated using a limited number of SSR primers, inclusion of more number of primers would lead to an unambiguous result.','-','Jyoti Sahu, Deepika Parte, Priya Gupta, Naresh Kumar Sahu, J.K. Tiwari, S.K. Sinha and Prabharani Chaudhari (2023). DNA Finger Printing and Molecular Characterization of Newly Developed Maize Inbreds based on Microsatellite Markers. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 15(3): 27-31.'),(6262,'149','Utilization of Freeze-dried Moringa oleifera Leaves Powder in Production of Paneer','Saranya V., Perasiriyan V., Rita Narayanan, Mangala Gowri A. and Sujatha G.','Utilization of Freeze-dried Moringa oleifera Leaves Powder in Production of Paneer-Perasiriyan V-179.pdf','',1,'Dairy products are known for their positive health benefits and are consumed all over the world. The supplementation of plant powder as sources of beneficial nutritional components to food has recently gained a lot of interest. Minerals and phenolic compounds, which are beneficial components, are very low in milk and fermented foods. Moringa oleifera is rich in polyphenols and flavonoid compounds. Its inclusion in milk could be an excellent method to improve the nutritional value of dairy products. The present investigation was aimed to formulate paneer with different concentrations of freeze dried Moringa oleifera leaf powder (MLP). Formulations were: control MP0, 0.5% MP1, 1% MP2, 1.5% MP3 and 2% MP4. On the basis of the study, it is concluded that MP2 (1% MLP) had gained higher nutritional value and better sensory acceptance than control. However, sensory acceptance was significantly modified after the incorporation of freeze dried Moringa oleifera leaf powder in product formulation.','Moringa oleifera leaf powder, paneer, sensory properties, freeze drying, nutritional value','A method was standardized for manufacture of paneer containing freeze dried M. oleifera leaf powder as an ingredient. It makes it a complete food as paneer is naturally devoid of vitamin C, iron and dietary fibre like milk and milk products. M. oleifera leaf powder being a good source of iron and dietary fibre can be utilized in paneer. So, the developed product exhibited significant (p>0.05) sensory scores in paneer. The result revealed the possible application of Moringa leaf powder (1%) as a natural source of anti-oxidant property in development of dairy products with potential health benefits.','-','Saranya V., Perasiriyan V., Rita Narayanan, Mangala Gowri A. and Sujatha G. (2023). Utilization of Freeze-dried Moringa oleifera Leaves Powder in Production of Paneer. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 15(2): 1162-1166.'),(6263,'150','A Molecular Docking Study of Solasodine against HMG-CoA Reductase','Anant Kumar Patel','A Molecular Docking Study of Solasodine against HMG-CoA Reductase-Anant Kumar Patel-6.pdf','',1,'In silico methods are becoming an essential component of the drug discovery process. This is mostly because they have the ability to have an impact on the entire drug development path, finding and discovering new prospective medications at a markedly reduced cost and time. Hyperlipidemia is a recognized risk factor for cardiovascular disease. It is common to treat hyperlipidemia with herbs. Yet, it presents ethical questions to test the effectiveness of herbal remedies for hyperlipidemia on humans and animals directly. Consequently, before conducting animal research and human clinical trials, in silico studies are required to assess the safety and efficacy of phytoconstituents. The atomic-level interaction between a ligand and a protein can be mimicked via molecular docking. The purpose of the study is to use molecular docking to assess the effectiveness of natural compounds against hyperlipidemia. One of the major challenges in molecular docking studies of solasodine is the accurate prediction of the binding affinity. After reading several literary sources, natural products were chosen. A molecular structure file for each substance was downloaded from the Pub Chem database. The Protein Data Bank provided the protein\'s crystal structure (PDB ID: 1HW9). The solvent molecules, cofactors, and ligands were released from the protein molecule. The Biovia Discovery software was used to find active binding sites. Docking tests for natural products against the 1HW9 protein were carried out using PyRx. Pyrx generates multiple conformations of ligand which improves the accuracy of the docking. According to the molecular docking research, solasodine binds to the HMG-CoA receptor more robustly and has a lower binding energy value than atorvastatin. It was discovered that atorvastatin was not as stable toward HMG-CoA as solasodine. Solasodine has the ability to act as a hypolipidemic agent.','Molecular Docking, Natural Compounds, Lipid Disorder, Insilico Study','Hyperlipidemia is currently a big issue. Traditional therapies can have negative consequences. This has sparked interest in alternative treatments, particularly in developed countries. There are several therapeutic plants and herbs in nature. Around 200 herbs have historically been used to prevent and cure hyperlipidemia. The link between reduced LDL cholesterol levels and lower cardiovascular disease mortality is widely established. The lipid-lowering benefits of medicinal plants are now being researched as part of phytomedicine research for various disorders all over the world. There are, however, a few plants that can benefit people suffering from the aforementioned illnesses. Plants\' antihyperlipidemic qualities are critical for lowering atherosclerosis. As a result, natural lipid-lowering medicines are gaining popularity. It is more helpful to use traditional medicinal herbs when creating novel medications to treat lipid diseases. Herbal compounds offer a potentially safer and more health-beneficial alternative to statins. Positive primary findings on the usage of herbal remedies point to potential uses for these medications in a range of patient groups. The bioactive components of herbal medications are also often safe and well-tolerated. This study has explained that plant-derived products may be useful for hyperlipidemia. For the management of lipid disorders, plant-derived drugs are highly necessary at this stage.\r\nThe molecular docking study shows that solasodine has a stronger negative binding affinity than atorvastatin and may be useful in treating hyperlipidemia. But, additional investigation is required to discover the processes behind these compounds\' lipid-lowering actions, to understand anti-hyperlipidemic activity in different animal models, and to determine the best way to employ them in human beings.\r\n','-','Anant Kumar Patel (2023). A Molecular Docking Study of Solasodine against HMG-CoA Reductase. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 15(3): 32-39.'),(6264,'149','Isolation and Characterization of Pink Pigmented Facultative Methylotrophic Bacteria: An in-Vitro Evaluation of the Isolates for Plant Growth Promotion on Rice','G. Violet Virginia Joel, P.C. Latha, A. Vijaya Gopal and B. Sreedevi','Isolation and Characterization of Pink Pigmented Facultative Methylotrophic Bacteria An in-Vitro Evaluation of the 180 Isolates for Plant Growth Promotion on Rice-P.C. Latha-180.pdf','',1,'A total of 50 PPFM’s were isolated from rhizosphere soil and phyllosphere of Pink Pigmented Facultative Methylotrophic (PPFM) isolates (IIRRSV22-1 to IIRRSV22-18 and M1) obtained mostly from the phyllosphere of rice plants collected from Telangana were screened for plant growth promoting traits and for tolerance towards abiotic stresses. All isolates were observed to produce indole acetic acid (IAA), while gibberellic acid (GA) production was detected in nine isolates, with the isolate IIRRSV22-5 producing the highest IAA and GA of 10.88 and 10.20 µg/ml of culture filtrate, respectively. Seven and sixteen isolates possessed the ability to solubilise phosphorus and zinc respectively, whereas potassium solubilization was observed only in one isolate (IIRRSV22-8). Isolates IIRRSV22-9 and IIRRSV22-5 recorded the highest solubilization index of 3.12 and 3.50 for phosphorus and zinc respectively. Isolate IIRRSV22-1 possessed the highest siderophore production index (3.42), while isolate IIRRSV22-5 was observed to grow more luxuriantly using ACC as the sole N source compared to other isolates. HCN production was not observed in any of the isolates. All isolates were tolerant to 2% NaCl, while 8 isolates (IIRRSV22-1,3,4,5,11,13,14 and M1) tolerated 3% NaCl concentration. When screened for moisture stress tolerance using PEG 6000 with IIRRSV22-4 isolate recording the highest growth. An in vitro germination assay was performed using all the isolates, in which rice seeds (DRR Dhan 46) inoculated with IIRRSV22-5 showed the highest significant increase in seed germination (100%), root length (12.47cm), shoot length (6.49cm) and seedling vigour index (1896) compared to control. The bacterial isolates were scored based on their efficiency to act as PGPR and for their competence to induce a beneficial interaction during in-vitro studies with rice. The total score secured by each isolate was computed as the sum of scores across all traits and the isolates with the highest scores were selected as the most promising PPFM. The five isolates with the highest scores were identified as Methylobacterium aquaticum, Methylobacterium phyllosphaerae, Methylobacterium radiotolerans, Methylobacterium fujisawaense and Methylobacterium sp. Alleviating the negative effects of abiotic stresses like drought, heat and salinity that are responsible for sharp decline in rice yields is a major challenge in the present climate change scenario. A promising eco-friendly strategy for increasing rice yields is the use of microorganisms to reduce abiotic stress on rice. Therefore, the current study has identified PPFM strains that have ability to promote plant growth which can be further used for the betterment of production and productivity of rice.','Rice, Phyllosphere, Cytokinins, Pink pigmented facultative methylobacteria (PPFM), Plant growth promotion, Abiotic stress tolerance','PPFM isolates were screened PGP traits like phytohormone production, insoluble mineral solubilization, ACC deaminase enzyme activity and siderophore production. In addition, the abiotic stress tolerance ability of PPFM isolates under drought and salt stress conditions were also investigated. The PPFM isolates were also assessed for their ability to improve germination and seedling vigour of rice. Based on these investigations, the most promising isolates were identified as Methylobacterium aquaticum, Methylobacterium radiotolerans, Methylobacterium sp, Methylobacterium fujisawaense. The strains identified in this study seem to be ideal candidates for promotion as bio-inoculants, due to their multiple PGP traits, abiotic stress tolerance and ability to promote rice seedling growth and vigour. ','-','G. Violet Virginia Joel, P.C. Latha, A. Vijaya Gopal and B. Sreedevi (2023). Isolation and Characterization of Pink Pigmented Facultative Methylotrophic Bacteria: An in-Vitro Evaluation of the Isolates for Plant Growth Promotion on Rice. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 15(2): 1167-1179.'),(6265,'149','Effect of Oil and Starch Based Edible Coating on Shelf Life of Guava Psidium guajava L. (cv Lucknow-49)','Ayushi Verma, T.R. Sharma, Deepali Bajpai and Rajnee Sharma','Effect of Oil and Starch Based Edible Coating on Shelf Life of Guava Psidium guajava L. (cv Lucknow-49)-Deepali Bajpai-181.pdf','',1,'Guava is popular with a wide range of people because it is cheaper, more nutritious and tastier than other fruits but the post harvest losses of guava around 46% because of high respiration rate, making it perishable while being stored. For minimize the post harvest losses and extend the shelf life of fresh guava the present study was conducted to using an edible coating made from edible oil such as rice bran, safflower and sunflower, beeswax and cornstarch. The treatment (Cornstarch 2% + safflower oil (1%) + beeswax (1%) has been proved to be the best oil and cornstarch based edible coating for shelf life of guava cv. L - 49 in respect to maximum - total soluble solids TSS (14.32 °Brix), acidity % (0.67%), ascorbic acid (199.66mg/100g), total, sugars 9.49%. The treatment (Cornstarch (2%) + rice bran oil (1%) + bees wax (1%) found next best treatment in improving the shelf life and quality of fruit up to 12th days of storage.','Guava, Cornstarch, Edible coating, TSS, Vitamin C','The maximum total soluble solids (14.32°Brix) was recorded in T7 treatment [(Cornstarch (2%) + safflower oil (1%) + beeswax (1%)], whereas the minimum (10.26 Brix) in control (T0) treatment on 12th day of storage. The maximum acidity (0.67%) was recorded in T7 treatment [(Cornstarch (2%) + safflower oil(1%) + beeswax (1%)], however the minimum (0.46%) in control (T0) treatment on 12th day of storage. The minimum TSS/acid ratio (19.38) was recorded in T7 treatment [(Cornstarch (2%) + safflower oil (1%) + beeswax (1%)] whereas the maximum TSS/acid ratio (22.31) was recorded under control (water). The maximum ascorbic acid (199.66 mg/100g) was recorded in T7 treatment [(Cornstarch (2%) + safflower oil (1%) + beeswax (1%)], whereas the minimum (110.33mg/100g) in control (T0) treatment on 12th day of storage. The maximum total sugars (9.49%) was recorded in T7 treatment [(Cornstarch (2%) + safflower oil (1%) + beeswax (1%))], whereas the minimum (7.55%) in control (T0) treatment on 12th day of storage. ','-','Ayushi Verma, T.R. Sharma, Deepali Bajpai and Rajnee Sharma (2023). Effect of Oil and Starch Based Edible Coating on Shelf Life of Guava Psidium guajava L. (cv Lucknow-49). Biological Forum – An International Journal, 15(2): 1180-1184.'),(6266,'149','Insights into Phenotypic Stability of Okra [Abelmoschus esculentus (L.) Moench] Hybrids Evaluated under Multi Environments','A.A. Patel, R.D. Vekariya, A.I. Patel and A.G. Singh','Insights into Phenotypic Stability of Okra [Abelmoschus esculentus (L.) Moench] Hybrids Evaluated under Multi Environments-AA Patel-182.pdf','',1,'Stability analysis is an important tool for plant breeders where they study g × e interaction on yield and its attributes by growing a genotype at different locations/seasons for many years to identify stable and high-yielding genotypes under a wide range of environments. The present investigation comprising 35 genotypes was carried out to evaluate them in four different environments at Navsari Agricultural University. The experimental material consisted of 35 genotypes; representing 24 hybrids developed by line × tester mating of 10 diverse parents and commercial hybrid check ‘OH-102’. Analysis of variance for stability revealed that the genotypes and environments showed highly significant differences for all the characters when tested against both, pooled error and pooled deviation. The differences due to genotype × environment interaction were significant to highly significant when tested against pooled deviation for the characters like average fruit girth, average fruit weight, plant height at final harvest, branches/plant at final harvest, internodes/plant at final harvest, fruits/plant and fruit yield/plant. None of the parent or hybrid was found consistently stable for all the characters but the parent GAO-5 and the hybrids AOL-16-04 × Arka Anamika, AOL-16-04 × Arka Abhay, AOL-16-04 × Kashi Kranti, AOL-16-04 × Parbhani Kranti and NOL 17-06 × Arka Anamika exhibited average stability for fruit yield/plant. Whereas, hybrid NOL 17-05 × Arka Anamika and NOL 17-09 × Arka Anamika exhibited below-average stability. Such hybrids could be utilized as environment-specific hybrids. These hybrids could also be used as breeding stock for incorporation in crosses with the objective of improving economic traits.','Okra, stability, fruit yield, environments','Thus, it can be summarized that for overall stable performance in fruit yield of the hybrid, one or more component characters might be responsible. So, by selecting stability in some yield components, the likelihood for the selection of stable hybrids increases. Grafius (1956) suggested that the stability of distinct yield components may be the cause of the stability of fruit yield. The average yield of each genotype rests on a particular set of environmental conditions. To find a stable genotype during selection, it would be beneficial to do real testing under a wide range of environments, including both favourable and unfavourable ones. The phenotypic stability of traits directly associated with fruit yield should get the appropriate amount of attention, particularly, fruit weight, plant height at final harvest, internodes/plant at final harvest and fruits/plant so as to achieve maximum stability for the end product i.e., fruit yield in okra. Such results were also reported by Patil et al. (2017); More et al. (2018); Vekariya et al. (2019).\r\nFor all the examined characteristics, no genotype was stable. Since the genotype may not concurrently display uniform responsiveness and stability patterns for all of these characteristics, any generalization about the stability of genotypes for all of the traits is therefore too difficult. Nevertheless, given that certain lines greatly outperformed the commercial check \"OH-102\", when averaged across environments, revealed the likelihood of producing particular lines for particular situations. However, for more reliable recommendations, these lines need to be tested in a manifold location. \r\n','-','A.A. Patel, R.D. Vekariya, A.I. Patel and A.G. Singh (2023). Insights into Phenotypic Stability of Okra [Abelmoschus esculentus (L.) Moench] Hybrids Evaluated under Multi Environments. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 15(2): 1185-1194.'),(6267,'147','Analysis of Marker-trait Association of Backcross Population in Rice using SSR Markers for High Grain Protein Content','Nutan Moharana, Bansidhar Pradhan, Krishnendu Chattopadhyay, Shuvendu Shekhar Mohapatra, Tapash Kumar Mishra, Mihir Ranjan Mohanty and Rajesh Kumar Kar','113 Analysis of Marker-trait Association of Backcross Population in Rice using SSR Markers for High Grain Protein Content-Bansidhar Pradhan-113.pdf','',1,'Rice is the main staple food in the world. Despite having a lower nutritional quality than other cereals, rice contributes 15% of the world\'s population\'s protein intake per capita. Enhancing the nutritional quality of rice will improve the nutritional status of the malnourished improvised country, and for this, the detection of QTLs linked to grain protein content and markers associated with them need to be discovered to have an efficient breeding approach. The experiment was conducted at the Crop Improvement Division, ICAR-National Rice Research Institute, Cuttack, Odisha, India, during 2021. The current study looked at a marker trait association of rice grain protein content using a panel population of 96 derived lines of backcross population. Grain protein content (%) was phenotyped and genotyped using a few chromosome 1 polymorphic SSR markers. The mean grain protein content was found to be 9.03 per cent, while it ranged from 3.83 to 17.76 per cent. Polymorphic markers were then used to score the 96 derived lines. The single marker RM12107 was positively correlated with grain protein content and was found significant with an R2 value > 0.05. It is clearly understood that this association is not consistent over seasons and needs to be studied on a large scale.','Grain protein, Marker-trait association, QTLs, Rice backcross population and SSR markers','Using a panel population of 96 derived lines from a backcross population, the current study examined a marker trait relationship of rice grain protein content. Using a few chromosome 1 polymorphic SSR markers, grain protein content (%) was phenotyped and genotyped. It was found that the average grain protein content was 9.03%, ranging from 3.83 to 17.76%. The 96 generated lines were then scored with polymorphic markers. The one marker, RM12107, had a significant R2 value of greater than 0.05 and was positively linked with grain protein content. It is clearly understood that this association is not consistent over seasons and needs to be studied on a large scale.','-','Nutan Moharana, Bansidhar Pradhan, Krishnendu Chattopadhyay, Shuvendu Shekhar Mohapatra, Tapash Kumar Mishra, Mihir Ranjan Mohanty and Rajesh Kumar Kar (2022). Analysis of Marker-trait Association of Backcross Population in Rice using SSR Markers for High Grain Protein Content. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 14(4a): 656-661.'),(6268,'149','Principal Component Analysis of Yield Attributing Traits in Derived Lines of Katarni Rice ','Divya Mahto, P.K. Singh, Sareeta Nahakpam and Mankesh Kumar','Principal Component Analysis of Yield Attributing Traits in Derived Lines of Katrani Rice-Divya Mahto-183.pdf','',1,'In, the traditional aromatic non-basmati Katarni rice is grown in the few blocks of Bihar Bhagalpur, Banka, and Munger, districts. However, it matures late, has weak straws, is tall, and is prone to lodging. With the objective of developing a semi-dwarf and early maturing variety, Katarni was crossed with three semi-dwarf high yielding cultivars namely Rajendra Sweta, IR 64 and BPT5204. The generation was advanced to the F6 generation and 54 derived lines of Katarni were examined in this study on the basis of 14 morphological parameters. Seventy percent of the entire variability was accounted for by five principal components, all of which had Eigen values above one. Between the first PC (23.31%) and second PC (35.59%), the total variation was 63.90%. Trait biplot analysis revealed substantially favorable genotypes for plant height and also found to be strongly positively. The genotypes biplot analysis showed that entries KIR-46, KIR-48, KRS-30, KRS-32, KRS-40 KRS-43, KRS-14, KRS-15, KRS-16, KRS-17, KRS-9, KRS-25 and KMTU-54 were found to be diverse and can be used further for varietal development.','Eigenvalue, Hybridization, Katarni, Principal component','Significantly advantageous genotypes for the trait plant height were found via trait biplot analysis. Several genotypes that can be employed further for varietal development were identified by the genotypes biplot analysis, including KIR-46, KIR-48, KRS-30, KRS-32, KRS-40, KRS-43, KRS-14, KRS-15, KRS-16, KRS-17, KRS-9, KRS-25, and KMTU-54.','-','Divya Mahto, P.K. Singh, Sareeta Nahakpam and Mankesh Kumar (2023). Principal Component Study of Yield Attributing Traits in Derived Lines of Katarni Rice for the Purpose of Estimating Genetic Diversity. Biological Forum – An International Jogurnal, 15(2): 1195-1199.'),(6269,'149','Evaluation of Leaf Biochemical Status at different Phenological Stages of Litchi (Litchi chinensis Sonn.) cv. Deshi','Ankita Aman, Ruby Rani, Feza Ahmad, Kumari Karuna, Awadhesh Kumar Pal, Shweta Shambhawi and Rani Kumari','Evaluation of Leaf Biochemical Status at different Phenological Stages of Litchi (Litchi chinensis Sonn.) cv. Deshi-Ruby Rani-184.pdf','',1,'Leaf nutrient and biochemical properties play important role in flowering and yield parameters of a plant. Thus, a study was undertaken to estimate leaf nutrient and biochemical status at different phenological stages of bearing litchi plants (Litchi chinensis Sonn.) in variety Deshi which is one of the commercial varieties of Bihar. Altogether ten phenological and meso stages were selected as per BBCH scale of litchi to measure the level of biochemical parameters in litchi leaves from shoot emergence to harvesting of fruits. Significant variation in leaf nutrient such as content of nitrogen, phosphorus and potassium in leaf and biochemical parameters like carbohydrate, protein, phenol and chlorophyll was observed with changes in phenology. The highest amount of leaf nitrogen, phosphorus, carbohydrates (7.56%), phenol and total chlorophyll was accumulated when shoots were about 90% of final length before flowering and it gradually decreased till stage of fruit maturity. However, the maximum protein content in leaf was noted in initial stage of leaf emergence and it gradually decreased with leaf maturity and least protein content was estimated at fruit maturity stage. Specific leaf weight was increased gradually and it was maximum (0.064%) at the stage when fruit colour fully developed. ','Litchi, Phenology, Leaf, nutrient, biochemical','On the basis of above finding it can be concluded that it may be concluded that leaf nutrient content and leaf biochemical parameters varies with phenological changes in litchi that play important role in inducing flowering and fruit set in litchi. Role of carbohydrate, nitrogen, phenol and chlorophyll has been well advocated for improving fruit set and yield as well in different crops. Thus, present study is informative pertaining to trends of change in these parameters.','-','Ankita Aman, Ruby Rani, Feza Ahmad, Kumari Karuna, Awadhesh Kumar Pal, Shweta Shambhawi and Rani Kumari (2023). Evaluation of Leaf Biochemical Status at different Phenological Stages of Litchi (Litchi chinensis Sonn.) cv. Deshi. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 15(2): 1200-1204.'),(6270,'149','Morphological and Cultural Variability of C. gleosporioides Causing Leaf and Fruit Spot of Pomegranate','Sanhita Malvi, K.S. Raghuwanshi, Sanjay Kharte, Pratik Pali and Priyanka Shinde','Morphological and Cultural Variability of C. gleosporioides Causing Leaf and Fruit Spot of Pomegranate-Sanhita Malvi-185.pdf','',1,'In India anthracnose, caused by C. gloeosporioides is the second most important disease of pomegranate next to bacterial blight commonly referred as oily spot. Recently, the pathogen showed high variability and development of fungicide-resistant strains. Therefore, present study was undertaken to study the morphological and cultural variability. All the isolates were identified as C. gloeosporioides on the basis of their morphology. The pathogen exhibited high level of variability and all the 16 isolates were found to be pathogenic and produced diseased symptoms within one week of inoculation. The mean colony diameter of all the isolates ranged from 85.33 mm to 89.67 mm. The colony colour of the isolates varied from grey, white and black. The reverse colony showed black and white colony colour. Sporulation was categorized as heavy to low with and spore size ranged from 9.146µm to 13.67µm. The isolates differed in their ability to produce symptoms. On the basis of their virulence, the isolates PCg 7, 8 and 14 were found to be very aggressive while PCg 5, 6 and 13 were moderately aggressive and the rest of the isolates were less aggressive.','Anthracnose, C. gloeosporioides, PCg, morphologival and cultural variability','Colletotrichum gleosporioides exhibits a wide range of morphological variability within the isolates. Therefore, there was a need to study these parameters, so as to ease the classification, identification and management of the pathogen. Despite of isolates being of same species, the isolates show remarkable differences with respect to colonial morphology (grey to white), sporulation (heavy to low), spore size (ranging from 9.146 µm to 13.798 µm) and aggressiveness. The variability within the same species may be due to environmental conditions prevailing in the location of the isolate from where it is collected.','-','Sanhita Malvi, K.S. Raghuwanshi, Sanjay Kharte, Pratik Pali and Priyanka Shinde (2023). Morphological and Cultural Variability of C. gleosporioides Causing Leaf and Fruit Spot of Pomegranate. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 15(2): 1205-1211.'),(6271,'150','Character Association and Path coefficient Analysis for Yield and Yield Components in Linseed (Linum usitatissimum L.)','Choudhary S.K., Nirala R.B.P., Anand S. and Kumar A.','Character Association and Path coefficient Analysis for Yield and Yield Components in Linseed (Linum usitatissimum L.)-Choudhary SK-7.pdf','',1,'Demand for linseed is increases day by day, globally due to its health benefits and industrial uses. Although, the availability of high yielding cultivars of linseed is limited. So, the present study has been conducted to determine genetic variability, heritability and character association among 47 linseed genotypes using eleven agro-morphological traits for yield and yield component. It was carried out at Agricultural Farm of BAU, Sabour, Bhagalpur (Bihar) during the Rabi 2019-20. The experimental material was evaluated in RBD design with three replications. Analysis of variance indicated that the presence of sufficient amount of variability among the genotypes for all the characters studied. High to moderate values of PCV and GCV were obtained for traits plant height, bud fly infestation, number of primary branches per plant, number of capsules per plant, 1000-seed weight and seed yield per plant. High heritability along with high to moderate genetic advance has been estimated for plant height, bud fly infestation, number of primary branches per plant, number of capsules per plant, 1000 seed weight and seed yield per plant. Thus, plant height and the number of capsules per plant are suitable for direct selection of the genotypes. Correlation study showed the significant and positive correlation of seed yield with flower diameter, number of primary branches per plant, number of capsules per plant, number of seeds per capsule and 1000-seed weight, whereas, days to 50% flowering, days to 50% maturity, plant height and bud fly infestation were found to be significant and negative correlation with seed yield per plant Path coefficient analysis indicated that the number of capsules per plant and flower diameter exhibited high and medium positive direct effect on seed yield, respectively. Hence, flower diameter, number of capsules per plant and bud fly resistance would be utilised for improvement of linseed cultivars.','Linseed, Correlation, Path coefficient, Variability, Heritability, Genetic Advance','The current study found adequate genetic variability within and among genotypes, indicating the possibility of further genetic enhancement in linseed.Plant height and the number of capsules per plant are two traits with high heritability and genetic advance that are suitable for selection as they have direct positive effects at phenotypic and genotypic level. Furthermore, According to a study that used correlation and path coefficients, the number of capsules per plant showed a significant direct correlation with seed yield. As a result, this trait may be prioritised in the improvement programme to genetic yield potential in linseed. As a result, improve genetic variability can be successfully used to develop new linseed cultivars.','-','Choudhary S.K., Nirala R.B.P., Anand S. and Kumar A. (2023). Character Association and Path coefficient Analysis for Yield and Yield Components in Linseed (Linum usitatissimum L.). Biological Forum – An International Journal, 15(3): 40-44.'),(6272,'147','Screening of Cucumber varieties for their Reaction to Root-knot Nematode, Meloidogyne incognita','Tamireddy Anjali, Byomakesh Dash, Niranjan Das, Narayan Panda and G. Santhosh','Screening of Cucumber varieties for their Reaction to Root-knot Nematode, Meloidogyne incognita-Tamireddy Anjali-114.pdf','',1,'The Meloidogyne incognita has detrimental effect on the sustainable production of cucumber production. It is a significant pest that significantly reduces cucumber plant growth and causes yield losses of 66.23 percent. Aim of this study is to draw systematic and comprehensive picture of resistant reaction of different cultivars of cucumber against root knot nematode, Meloidogyne incognita which can be used by farmers for more production. A pot culture experiment was conducted in the department of nematology, OUAT, Bhubaneswar 2021-2022 to examine how 34 cucumber cultivars responded to Meloidogyne incognita. The experimental setup was designed on CRD having 3 replications. The roots of all the cucumber cultivars were examined 45 days after the inoculation to calculate their gall indices, which ranged from 0 to 5. Data were collected based on nematode reproduction after 45 days. None of the 34 cucumber cultivars tested positive for immunity to root-knot nematode. Present data revealed that out of Thirty-four (34) varieties none was found immune against root-knot nematode. Two varieties Green long and Topper F1 were categorised as resistant against M. incognita while nine (9) varieties summer queen, Malini, Crystal-21, Super Queen 45, Encounter 962 F1, Kareena, Padma -51, JK Manali, Krish were categorised as moderately resistant and eighteen varieties (18) Rajmata, sukumal, supriya, Simran, Clara, Glossy, NS-415, Padmini, KSP-1302 Bhavana, Hercules New, ZCU-126, KSP-142 Hansa, Kumud, Natalia-74, Suruchi, AZCU-30, Hind, cucumber sweet long were found susceptible against root knot nematode and remaining five (5) varieties Basumati, 12-Patra, Adimata, Kumulika, Radhika were found highly susceptible reaction to nematode.','cucumber varieties, Meloidogyne incognita, gall index, resistance','The residual nematode population density in the field is directly impacted by resistant and moderately resistant germplasm that inhibits nematode reproduction. It would be desirable to choose resistant genotypes based on root knot index during preliminary assessments, followed by selection based on nematode reproduction during advanced evaluations, for breeding programmes for resistance to plant parasitic nematodes. Therefore, using resistant genetic material can be a key strategy for controlling the root knot nematode population in the pulse ecosystem. On resistant and moderately resistant germplasm, it was revealed that Meloidogyne incognita reproductive capacity was drastically low. These cultivars are advised for cultivation in M. incognita infested fields because they are expected to experience less nematode damage than susceptible ones with the highest rate of nematode multiplication.','-','Tamireddy Anjali, Byomakesh Dash, Niranjan Das, Narayan Panda and G. Santhosh (2022). Screening of Cucumber varieties for their Reaction to Root-knot Nematode, Meloidogyne incognita. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 14(4a): 662-666.'),(6273,'149','A Study on Rickettsial Infection in the Acute Fever Cases of South Gujarat’s Surat Region, India Indicates Higher Incidences','Amruta R. Patil and Jignaben P. Naik','A Study on Rickettsial Infection in the Acute Fever Cases of South Gujarat’s Surat Region, India Indicates Higher Incidences-Amruta R-186.pdf','',1,'Rickettsial Infection (RI) is zoonoses disease caused by intracellular bacteria where humans were accidently involved in chain of transmission between insect and animals. Factors which serve as emerging vector borne infection are deforestation, urbanization, changing land use patterns, water control projects, loss of biodiversity, agriculture, and increased global travel, human migration and trade. Because of these factors there are close contact between vector and humans. RI occurs worldwide and clinically manifests as non-specific acute febrile illness (AFI). RI is always misdiagnosed and underreported in India because of outburst of viral fever, symptoms similarities with other common causes of AFI. RI reported from almost all parts of India apart from Gujarat, so our aim is to find out the prevalence of RI in our region by serological Weil-Felix test. Patients Serum samples (> 500) with AFIs were obtained and were tested for RI and other common causes i.e., malaria, dengue, typhoid and chikungunya. In our study for RIs screening were positive in 61.98% samples. RI detected were scrub typhus 101 followed by typhus group 92 and spotted fever group 26 during 2 years of period. High positivity was found in females and age groups of 21-40 years age. This research adds to the limited information available in the literature pertaining to RI in south Gujarat region of India. Our result provides knowledge of RI seroprevalence in our region. This in order allows for more swot of RI mainly region specific.','RI, scrub typhus, Typhus fever, spotted fever, prevalence, Weil-Felix test','The RIs seroprevalence is high in our region of study. Of RIs we found that scrub typhus and typhus group fever are more prevalent. Several tests are available for differential diagnosis of AFI with high sensitivity and specificity, but they are not routinely used because of cost and technical reasons in developing countries. Serological tests are the mainstay in AFI differential diagnosis. Suspected RIs is an emergency, and the person must see a health practitioner quickly. Examination of patients’ samples ensures a quick diagnosis and helps them receive the correct treatment early. Failure in diagnosis and treatment put patients at great risk. The burden suspected is high in our region so this infection should include in differential diagnosis of AFI.','-','Amruta R. Patil and Jignaben P. Naik (2023). A Study on Rickettsial Infection in the Acute Fever Cases of South Gujarat’s Surat Region, India Indicates Higher Incidences. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 15(2): 1212-1216.'),(6274,'150','Identification of Polymorphic SSR Markers and Diversity Analysis in a Set of Desi Chickpea Genotypes','Rajesh Ningwal, Manoj Kumar Tripathi, Sushma Tiwari, Ruchi Asati, Rakesh Kumar Yadav, Niraj Tripathi and Mohammad Yasin ','Identification of Polymorphic SSR Markers and Diversity Analysis in a Set of Desi Chickpea Genotypes-Manoj Kumar Tripathi-8.pdf','',1,'The chickpea (Cicer arietinum L.) is a staple legume crop grown in India, North Africa and the Middle East and Ethiopia. To maintain continuous production of chickpea, it is important to develop new varieties tolerant/resistant to different abiotic and biotic stresses. Therefore, it is important to identify diverse genotypes to select as parents before planning hybridization programme. So, it is necessary to analyse diversity among and between genotypes. The molecular characterization of chickpea for genetic diversity may be used for detection of diverse chickpea genotype(s). The persistence of this investigation is to examine the genetic diversity present among 57 chickpea genotypes by using SSR molecular markers. Thirteen of 33 SSR molecular markers were found to be polymorphic and produced an average of seven amplicons per primer pair. The genetic relatedness between cultivars ranged between 0.4334 to 0.8926 and the polymorphic information content arrayed between 0.3820 (STMS-11) to 0.8833 (GAA-44). Hierarchical tree data indicated 6 different clusters in a dendrogram and in bootstrapping. Overall, the study confirmed that SSRs are effective marker methods for revealing genetic diversity in chickpeas, which may be proved helpful for breeding programme such as parent selection as well as cultivar identification.','Chickpea, Genetic diversity, SSR, PCR, scoring, Dendogram','High genetic diversity within a chickpea population provides an opportunity to the breeders to plant hybridization strategies for improvement of chickpea. Thirteen SSR primers were found to be polymorphic out of the 32 SSR markers used in the current study. Through the crossing of genetically diverse genotypes, traits with a wide range of allele sizes, a large number of genotype-specific alleles per locus, high polymorphic information content, and expected heterozygosity made it possible to improve yield and specific traits like heat, cold, and drought.','-','Rajesh Ningwal, Manoj Kumar Tripathi, Sushma Tiwari, Ruchi Asati, Rakesh Kumar Yadav, Niraj Tripathi and Mohammad Yasin (2023). Identification of Polymorphic SSR Markers and Diversity Analysis in a Set of Desi Chickpea Genotypes. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 15(3): 45-51.'),(6275,'149','Pattern of Transgressive Segregants for Fibre Quality Traits in Segregating Populations derived from an intra-hirsutum cross in Cotton (Gossypium hirsutum L.)\r\n','Revanasiddayya, J.M. Nidagundi, B. Fakrudin, P.H. Kuchanur, Yogeesh L.N., S. G. Hanchinal, T.C. Suma and Gururaj Sunkad ','Pattern of Transgressive Segregants for Fibre Quality Traits in Segregating Populations derived from anintra-hirsutumcross in Cotton (Gossypium hirsutum L.)-Revanasiddayya-187.pdf','',1,'One of the challenge in plant breeding is retrieving and identifying most potential transgressive segregants in segregating population. The present study was aimed at understanding the pattern of transgressive segregants (TS) for fibre quality traits in different segregating population’s viz., F2, B1F2, B2F2 and F3 derived from an intra-hirsutum cross in upland cotton. Among the four populations, number of TS were found to be highest in F2 population followed by F3, B2F2 and B1F2 population for UHML and micronaire value owing to their population size while pattern of superiority was F2>F3>B1F2>B2F2 for fibre strength. When TS were estimated using different methods viz., parental lines (P1 and P2), mid-parental value, F2 population mean and standard checks (BGDS-1063 and BGDS-1033), number of TS were found to be the highest over check BGDS-1063 in F2(70 (2.4 %)) followed by F3(16 (2.1 %)), B1F2 (2 (0.5 %)) and B2F2 (9 (2.3 %)) populations for UHML and fibre strength while for micronaire value, their number were more over F2 population mean compared to other methods. The segregants viz., RAH1-F2-10 (33.79 mm), RAH1-F3-47 (32.64 mm), RAH1-B₁F2-39 (30.51 mm) andRAH1-B2F2-30 (31.98 mm) were identified as the most potential transgressive segregants for UHML in F2, F3, B1F2 and B2F2 populations, respectively. The present study concluded that the pattern in number of transgressive segregants varies in different segregating populations (F2, F3, B1F2 and B2F2) according to differences in population size and method of estimation. Most potential transgressive segregants for fibre quality traits are identified with can be used to derive superior homozygous lines for the concerned trait. ','Cotton, Transgressive segregants, Segregating populations, UHML, Fibre strength, Micronaire value','The pattern of number of transgressive segregants varies in different segregating populations (F2, F3, B1F2 and B2F2) according to differences in population size. Further, this study inferred that the number of transgressive segregants varies when worked out using different methods i.e. P1, P2, mid-parental value, F2 mean or standard checks. ','-','Revanasiddayya, J.M. Nidagundi, B. Fakrudin, P.H. Kuchanur, Yogeesh L.N., S. G. Hanchinal, T.C. Suma and Gururaj Sunkad (2023). Pattern of Transgressive Segregants for Fibre Quality Traits in Segregating Populations derived from an intra-hirsutum cross in Cotton (Gossypium hirsutum L.). Biological Forum – An International Journal, 15(2): 1217-1223.'),(6276,'149','Perception of Quality of Life in Periarthritis Patients – A Cross Sectional Analysis','Prasana K., Mohanraj K., Sam Thamburaj A., Ramya K., Mallika S. and Prabhakaradoss D. ','Perception of Quality of Life in Periarthritis Patients – A Cross Sectional Analysis-Prasana K-188.pdf','',1,'Biopsychosocial health model accentuates on the physiological pathology and handling the disease with certain psychological distress that might be due to any potential or assumed belief that affects the social life of the patients like work and family circumstances and culturally bothers them. Hence any treatment procedure should consider all the pathological, social and cultural reasons that impede them from taking treatment. This study was conducted to find out the perception of quality of life in periarthritis patients. Periarthritis is one condition that affects the life of the individual and makes them feel crippled. The questionnaire was designed particularly for this study and was circulated online and offline. The participants were from entire Tamil Nadu who suffered from periarthritis. The questioner was a close ended type with 10 questions that assessed various components of quality of life. Out of the 732 participants, 48 were excluded and 684 were taken into final analysis. The results of the study revealed that most of the subjects had been suffering from Periarthritis for more than three months and it was found to disturb their sleep pattern and quality of life. They affirmed that the condition has made their life dependent on others for their activities of daily living and they felt pathetic about it, as it has reduced their confidence and independence. This cross sectional study showed light upon the emotional component of the health status, which if not dealt will lead to depression. There was a challenge of making the participants fill in the questionnaire in out-patient departments. It needed a remainder for handing over the filled printouts at the outpatient department from where it was issued.','Periarthritis, Quality of Life, Activities of Daily Living, Shoulder Pain, Disability','This cross sectional study suggested that the periarthritis patients suffer from poor quality of life other than the pain and disability. Hence the emotional component of the disease should also be addressed for overall well-being.','-','Prasana K., Mohanraj K., Sam Thamburaj A., Ramya K., Mallika S. and Prabhakaradoss D. (2023). Perception of Quality of Life in Periarthritis Patients – A Cross Sectional Analysis. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 15(2): 1224-1228.'),(6277,'149','Genetic Diversity in Turmeric (Curcuma longa L.) Genotypes using Molecular Markers','Nandakumar K., Vishnuvardhana, Fakrudin B., Mohan Kumar N.V., Brijesh A. and Venkatesha J.','Genetic Diversity in Turmeric (Curcuma longa L.) Genotypes using Molecular Markers-Nandakumar K-189.pdf','',1,'Turmeric being an economical crop hence it attracts to the farmers due to its versatile use in medicinal and spice industry. In the present study, genetic relatedness of 63 turmeric genotypes were assessed with using 37 SSR markers. A total of 90 amplicons were produced of which 61 amplicons were polymorphic accounting for 54.50 per cent and 29 amplicons were monomorphic. Among thirty seven primers pairs screened, CUMISAT 8 and CUMISAT 13 scored highest number of polymorphic alleles (5 amplicons). The cluster analysis of UPGMA reveals that all genotypes were grouped into six major clusters with four solitary clusters. The genotypes viz., TC-1, TC-2, TC-3, TC-4, TC-5, TC-8, TC-9 and TC-52 showed more similarity towards a commercially cultivated variety of Salem. Similarly, the genotypes viz., TC-59, TC-26, TC-33, TC-32 and TC-60-1 showed similarity towards released or improved variety Prathibha. The genotype TC-60-2, TC-61, TC-31 and Prabha seem to be very diverse compared to other genotypes. Hence, this molecular marker information will be a useful tool to identify the unique/diverse genotypes present in the collection. The study revealed genetic diversity and relatedness of turmeric genotypes collected by farmers with respect to the released varieties which can useful for selections in crop improvement.','SSR, UPGMA, Amplicons, Cluster, Polymorphic and Monomorphic','A comparison of these values of allelic diversity among the genotypes, clearly emphasize the scope for introgression of genes through hybridization among the cultivars for increasing genetic diversity in the cultivated turmeric pool. This also reiterates the need for genetic diversity evaluation among the principal genotype classes and cataloguing them for the benefit of the future. Molecular investigation of 63 genotypes with SSR markers showed that, the genotypes viz., TC-1, TC-2, TC-3, TC-4, TC-5, TC-8, TC-9 and TC-52 showed more similarity towards commercial cultivated variety of Salem. Similarly, the genotypes viz., TC-59, TC-26, TC-33, TC-32 and TC-60-1 showed similarity towards released or improved variety Prathibha. The genotype TC-31, TC-60-2 and TC-61 were more diverse among the collected genotypes. Hence, this molecular marker information will be useful tool to identify the unique/diverse genotypes present in a collection. ','-','Nandakumar K., Vishnuvardhana, Fakrudin B., Mohan Kumar N.V., Brijesh A. and Venkatesha J. (2023). Genetic Diversity in Turmeric (Curcuma longa L.) Genotypes using Molecular Markers. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 15(2): 1229-1236.'),(6278,'149','Assessment of Physicochemical Parameters and Bioactive compounds of Cold-pressed Sesame Oils Released from PJTSAU Sesame Seed varieties (JCS 1020. HIMA & SWETHA)','P. Prathyusha, T. Supraja, B. Anila Kumari, R. Neela Rani, D. Srinivasa Chary and S. Padmaja ','Assessment of Physicochemical Parameters and Bioactive compounds of Cold-pressed Sesame Oils Released from PJTSAU Sesame Seed varieties (JCS 1020. HIMA & SWETHA)-P Prathyusha-190.pdf','',1,'Cooking oils are mostly derived from seeds, fruits and nuts. Oil from the seed is obtained by heating, crushing and refining. Of all the oil extraction methods, cold pressing is known to be the best natural way to obtain fresh and healthy oils. In cold pressed extraction, seeds are pounded by an external force. It does not include any heating process. Because the oil is not expected to be heated, and it retains the essential nutrients, proteins and various bioactive compounds present in oils, making it a better oil for cooking than oils made by the heating process. Due to this reason present study aims to extract the cold pressed sesame oil from selected varieties released by PJTSAU to assess the quality of oil with physicochemical parameters and bioactive compounds investigated. Results concluded that density, saponification and total carotenoids had significant differences at p<0.05 whereas total tocopherol content and specific gravity had significant difference at p<0.01 level of significance between by the cold pressed sesame oil varieties (JCS 1020, HIMA & SWETHA). The highest content of bioactive compounds such as total tocopherol was found in JCS 1020 (490.5±0.05 mg/kg) whereas the total carotenoid content was reported for SWETHA (19.44±0.61mg/kg) variety.','Cold pressed sesame oil, Total tocopherol content, Total carotenoid content, Iodine value and Physicochemical parameters','From the present investigation results concluded that the highest mean value of physical parameters such as for SWETHA variety cold pressed sesame oil was given for density (0.34 ±0.00), Smoke point (111.7±1.70), Viscosity (0.052±0.0001), flash point (277±1.00) and specific gravity (0.918±0.00) whereas for JCS 1020 variety cold pressed sesame oil was given highest for saponification value (188.2±0.50), insoluble impurity percentage (0.14±0.006), foaming capacity (0.81±0.46) and iodine value (109.28±0.02). Among the physical parameters of cold pressed sesame oil varieties (JCS 1020. HIMA and SWETHA) density and saponification had significantly differed at p≤0.05 level of significance whereas specific gravity significantly differed at p≤0.01 level of significance. ','-','P. Prathyusha, T. Supraja, B. Anila Kumari, R. Neela Rani, D. Srinivasa Chary and S. Padmaja (2023). Assessment of Physicochemical Parameters and Bioactive compounds of Cold-pressed Sesame Oils Released from PJTSAU Sesame Seed varieties (JCS 1020. HIMA & SWETHA). Biological Forum – An International Journal, 15(2): 1237-1244.'),(6279,'149','Evaluation of Potato (Solanum tuberosum L.) Hybrids and Varieties for Medium Maturity and Quality Components for North - Central India','Hirdesh Kumar, Rashmi Bajpai, Murlidhar J. Sadawarti, Sushma Tiwari, S.P. Singh and R.K. Samadhiya ','Evaluation of Potato (Solanum tuberosum L.) Hybrids and Varieties for Medium Maturity and Quality Components for North - Central India-Hirdesh Kumar-191.pdf','',1,'A field experiment was conducted at the ICAR-Central Potato Research Station, Gwalior, Madhya Pradesh, during 2019–20 and 2020–21 to evaluate advanced potato hybrids and varieties for quality and biochemical parameters for commercial cultivation in the North Central region of India. A total of 21 potato cultivars (11 hybrids and 10 varieties) were evaluated. A randomized block design was used to plan the experiment in three replications. Two potato varieties (Kufri Lalit, Kufri Neelkanth) and two hybrids (P-28, MS/12-2116) out of twenty-one performed best in respect of their different bio-chemical properties and hence are recommended for the processing industry in North- Central India. The objective of this work was to evaluate tuber yield at medium maturity. Keeping this view in mind, the present study set out to select suitable and improved varieties of potato having superior growth yield & quality characteristics and better economic variability for commercial production for north- Central India. Variations in quality and biochemical parameters, viz., dry matter content (%), starch content, reducing sugar, total soluble solids, protein content, phenols, and total free amino acids, were recorded in two years among hybrids and varieties tested under the study. Dry matter content was significantly highest in hybrid P-12 (19.71%), and hybrid P-28 (22.20%), hybrid PS/6-39 (25.07%) for 75, 90 DAP and senescence. Reducing sugar content was low in control variety Kufri Lalit, (243.00mg/100) at 75 DAP and (183.67%) at 90 DAP and highest reducing sugar content in control Kufri Khyati (252.67mg/100) at 75 DAP and hybrid J/7-37 (263.00mg/100) at 90 DAP. Low phenol content was recorded in hybrid J/7-37 (91.00 mg/100) on both harvesting days. Hybrid MS/8-1148 (94.67mg/100) at 75 DAP and (83.64mg/100) at 90 DAP contains the mean lowest free amino acid content. The highest starch content (%) was recorded in the control variety Kufri Lalit, (74.41%, 76.26%) on both harvesting days. The highest protein content (%) was recorded in hybrid PS/06-88 (4.93%) at 75 DAP and hybrid MCIP/12-185 (5.56%) at 90 DAP. Highest total soluble solids were recorded in hybrid PS/6-39 (5.41 Brix°) at 75 DAP and hybrid PS/6-39 (7.73 Brix°) at 90 DAP. Under the present study, among hybrids J/7-37 (38.74 t/ha), MS/12-2116 (43.63 t/ha), and P-28 (70.03 t/ha), and among controls K. Neelkanth (42.38 t/ha), K. Lalit (49.13 t/ha), and K. Lalima (66.49 t/ha), significantly higher yields were recorded for 75 DAP, 90 DAP, and at senescence two potato varieties (Kufri Lalit, Kufri Neelkanth) and two hybrids (P-28, MS/12-2116) were found to be suitable for farmer. These potato hybrids and varieties will sustain farmers\' income in the changing climate scenario in north-central India.','Potato varieties, potato hybrids, dry matter, tuber yield, starch content, reducing sugar, total soluble solids, protein content, phenols, and total free amino acids','The result clearly indicates that hybrids J/7-37 (38.74 t/ha), MS/12-2116 (43.63 t/ha) and P-28 (70.03 t/ha) and among controls K. Neelkanth (42.38 t/ha), K. Lalit (49.13 t/ha) and K Lalima (66.49 t/ha) were most suitable medium duration for cooking and gives high yield in all three days of potato harvesting 75, 90 and at senescence. Most of these hybrids and varieties contain dry matter, starch, reducing sugars, total soluble solids, protein, phenols, and amino acids within acceptable limits, which are required for consumption purposes. This potato hybrid and variety will be especially useful for resource-poor farmers.','-','Hirdesh Kumar, Rashmi Bajpai, Murlidhar J. Sadawarti, Sushma Tiwari, S.P. Singh and R.K. Samadhiya (2023). Evaluation of Potato (Solanum tuberosum L.) Hybrids and Varieties for Medium Maturity and Quality Components for North - Central India. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 15(2): 1245-1250.'),(6280,'149','Assessment of Effect of Beneficial Microorganisms on Plant Growth and Yield of Quinoa (Chenopodium quinoa Wild) under Semi-arid Alfisols','Ameer Pasha B., Salmankhan R.M., Parameshnaik C. and L. Krishna Naik','Assessment of Effect of Beneficial Microorganisms on Plant Growth and Yield of Quinoa (Chenopodium quinoa Wild) under Semi-arid Alfisols-Ameer Pasha B-192.pdf','',1,'The University of Agricultural Sciences, Bangalore, undertook an experiment to determine the impact of advantageous microbial inoculants on the growth and yield of quinoa in glass house conditions. Five microbiological cultures were examined: Glomus fasciculatum, Bacillus megaterium, Fraturia aurantia, Pseudomonas fluorescens, and Azotobacter chroococcum. Pure cultures of chosen isolates of Bacillus megaterium, Fraturia aurantia, Azotobacter chroococcum, and Pseudomonas fluorescens were sub-cultured on a particular medium and kept in slants for further research. To find the best treatment for achieving the highest plant growth and yield characteristics, 17 treatments were examined. According to the Analysis of Variance, there were substantial differences between treatments in how they affected plant characteristics and quinoa yield. T17 seeded with Azotobacter chroococcum+ Bacillus megaterium+ Pseudomonas fluorescens was superior with considerably higher plant height, number of leaves per plant, number of branches per plant, leaf area, length and weight of the panicle, weight of the shoot and root, and quinoa grain yield. The number of leaves per plant and the number of branches per plant both showed statistically significant associations with plant height. Plant height, the number of leaves, and the number of branches per plant were all substantially linked with panicle length and weight. Significant correlations existed between panicle length, weight, shoot and root dry weight, and leaf area. Plant height, leaf count, panicle length, panicle weight, shoot and root dry weight, leaf area, and soil N all had a substantial impact on quinoa yield. To achieve the best plant development and yield metrics, we advise using T17 inoculated with Azotobacter chroococcum+ Bacillus megaterium+ Pseudomonas fluorescens. A requirement for Before being widely used by farmers in semi-arid Alfisols, the superior microorganisms must be tested in the field for greater efficacy.','Microbial cultures, Plant growth traits, Yield parameters, Correlation, Alfisols','A study was conducted to assess the effect of microbial inoculants on growth and yield of quinoa under glass house conditions in Department of Agricultural Microbiology, UAS, Bangalore. Five microbial cultures viz., Azotobacter chroococcum, Bacillus megaterium, Fraturia aurantia, Pseudomonas fluorescens and Glomus fasciculatum were used. Pure cultures of Azotobacter chroococcum, Bacillus megaterium, Fraturia aurantia, Pseudomonas fluorescens isolates were sub-cultured on specific medium and maintained in slants. Microbial inoculants of Azotobacter chroococcum, Bacillus megaterium, Fraturia aurantia, Pseudomonas fluorescens were mixed with carrier (talc) and kept for a week for stabilization at room temperature. About 10g of carrier based inoculants was applied to each pot and mixed thoroughly in top soil just before sowing. Seventeen treatments were tested for identifying a superior treatment for attaining maximum plant growth and yield. Based on DMRT, T17: Azotobacter chroococcum+Bacillus megaterium+Pseudomonas fluorescens superior with noticeably increased plant height, leaves per plant, branches per plant, panicle length, panicle weight, and grain yield of quinoa. We found strong positive connections between plant height and the number of leaves and branches per plant as well as between the number of leaves per plant and the number of branches per plant. Plant height, the number of leaves, and the number of branches per plant were significantly positively correlated with panicle length and panicle weight. Significant positive association between panicle weight and panicle length was observed. Plant height, leaf count, panicle length, and panicle weight all significantly positively correlated with quinoa yield.\r\nBased on regression model, quinoa yield had R2 of 0.280, 0.336 and 0.226 for predicting yield with rate of change of 17.66, 4.81and 17.58 kg/ha for unit change through plant height, number of leaves/plant, number of branches/plant respectively. Similarly, yield had R2 of 0.386 and 0.529 for predicting yield with rate of change of 126.4 and 61.42 kg/ha for unit change through panicle length and panicle weight respectively. The correlation between plant traits and quinoa yield and rate of change of yield for unit change in parameters indicated that treatments have positively influenced the plant traits, which in turn positively influenced the yield. T17: Azotobacter chroococcum + Bacillus megaterium + Pseudomonas fluorescens was superior with lowest rank sum of 21, while T10: Azotobacter chroococcum + Pseudomonas fluorescens was the 2nd best with rank sum of 60. We recommend these two superior treatments for attaining maximum plant growth and yield of quinoa. There is a need for testing the beneficial microorganisms in field condition for greater efficacy before making large scale recommendation to farmers for adoption under semi-arid Alfisols.\r\n','-','Ameer Pasha B., Salmankhan R.M., Parameshnaik C. and L. Krishna Naik (2023). Assessment of Effect of Beneficial Microorganisms on Plant Growth and Yield of Quinoa (Chenopodium quinoa Wild) under Semi-arid Alfisols. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 15(2): 1251-1258.'),(6281,'149','Screening of Diatomaceous Earth Against Lesser Grain Borer (Rhyzopertha dominica Fab.)','Amit Shekhar, Ranjeet Kumar and M. Raghuraman','Screening of Diatomaceous Earth Against Lesser Grain Borer (Rhyzopertha dominica Fab.)-Amit Shekhar-193.pdf','',1,'On an average 10% overall losses of food commodities caused by stored grain insect pests. The storage commodities of agriculture and horticulture are infested by several species of pests worldwide. For management of such huge number of stored grain insect pests only old age traditional chemical fumigants e.g., Aluminium phosphide are used throughout the world. Chemical fumigants are not only contaminating the food commodities but also lead to serious health risk and environmental pollution in addition to development of resistance in insect. The Rhyzopertha dominica (F.), is a severe pest of raw materials that are kept in storage all over the world. It often infests grain in warehouses. Typically, the grain infestation starts at the top and moves downward. Because the majority of its life cycle spent inside the grain kernel, control of the pest is difficult. The first instar larva chews its way inside the grain kernels where it feeds after laying eggs externally on the grain. After the grub is fully grown, it drills a sizable hole to escape. While grading and marketing grain, this exit hole is typically a sign of an insect-damaged kernel (IDK), which is frequently taken into consideration. Organic or eco-friendly management are not available to manage this pest in storage. Taking all these measures an experiment were conducted to evaluate the effectiveness of Diatomaceous Earth in reducing adult emergence. Results shows that all the treatments were effective against lesser grain borer particularly 1.00 and 1.25 & 1.5 g DE/kg of seed. ','Stored grain insect pest, Aluminium phosphide, Rhyzopertha dominica, Diatomaceous Earth','The above experiment tends to find out an alternative of the chemical pesticide against lesser grain borer in storage. Chemical pesticides are not only harmful for human health but also harmful for environment. Diatomaceous earth used in this experiment is of food grade which is safe for human beings. Above results shows that diatomaceous earth can effectively inhibit the feeding and breeding of the test insect and can be used in managing the pests. This indicates that we can use diatomaceous earth instead of chemical fumigant for better management of grains in storage. This also advocates that prior treatment of grains can yield effective results. Farmers can also use diatomaceous earth during storage of grains instead of harmful chemicals. Food Corporation of India, Central Warehousing Corporation and State Warehousing Corporation can also use this diatomaceous earth for managing the pest during bulk storage of grains.','-','Amit Shekhar, Ranjeet Kumar and M. Raghuraman (2023). Screening of Diatomaceous Earth Against Lesser Grain Borer (Rhyzopertha dominica Fab.). Biological Forum – An International Journal, 15(2): 1259-1261.'),(6282,'149','Repercussions of Chemical Fertilizers on the Environment and Safety Measures','Satheesh Ampolu, Santhi Priya Dalai, M.V.V. Ramanjaneyulu, Usha Hanumantu and Amit Kumar ','Repercussions of Chemical Fertilizers on the Environment and Safety Measures-Satheesh Ampolu-194.pdf','',1,'Agriculture in the twenty-first century faces numerous challenges, including the need to produce more food to feed a growing population. Chemical fertilizers are used to meet the needs of the population and to increase productivity. Chemical fertilizers improve plant growth and productivity, ensuring global food security, but they also prevent plants from developing desirable traits including a strong root system and nutritional traits, as well as giving them adequate time to develop and mature. Besides to this the chemical fertilizers are creating a lot of toxicity that impacts the environment adversely. Toxic compounds from chemically generated plants will build up in the human body and are extremely harmful and also several issues such as serious soil degradation, nitrogen leaching, soil compaction, soil organic matter loss, and soil carbon loss. To avoid this we must exchange chemical fertilizer with organic inputs like manure, bio-fertilizers, bio-pesticides, Nano fertilizers, and slow-release fertilizers, etc., which would improve the soil texture, allowing it to hold water longer, and increase the bacterial and fungal activity in the soil. A healthy natural environment and ecology will result from choosing organic farming for both the present and the coming generations.','Environment, Ecosystem, Chemical fertilizers, Controlled released fertilizers, granulated fertilizer, Nano-fertilizer, Organic fertilizer','Chemical fertilizers play a significant role in the production of enough food for the entire world\'s population, but their excessive use is posing serious problems for both the present and the next generation, including air, water, and soil pollution, degraded lands, depleted soils, and increased greenhouse gas emissions. These artificial fertilizers are increasingly dangerous not just for the environment but also for people, animals, and microbiological life. Long-term, excessive use of chemical fertilizers on the same soil can degrade the soil and cause the loss of beneficial soil microbes. Therefore, integrating the use of various nutrient supplements, such as controlled released fertilizers, granulated fertilizers, Nano-fertilizer, nitrification inhibitors, organic fertilizers, etc., are the promising solutions we can use to overcome these significant challenges and can save the environment. Organic fertilizers are readily available mineral sources that have a modest concentration of vital minerals for plants. They have the ability to reduce issues brought on by synthetic fertilizers. They lessen the requirement for recurrent synthetic fertilizer applications to maintain soil fertility. Using organic fertilizers has many advantages, including improved soil structure, a season-long supply of nutrients, and better water-holding capacity. In the foliar sector, organic fertilizer is now the most in-demand commodity. However, it\'s crucial to regularly do your homework and read labels before making a purchase. Growers must take the time to confirm that the fertilizer is natural, non-toxic, and prepared entirely with plant extracts from organic sources.','-','Satheesh Ampolu, Santhi Priya Dalai, M.V.V. Ramanjaneyulu, Usha Hanumantu and Amit Kumar (2023). Repercussions of Chemical Fertilizers on the Environment and Safety Measures. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 15(2): 1262-1268.'),(6283,'149','Growth and Yield of Nutmeg Budded on Wild (Myristica beddomei King) and Cultivated (Myristica fragrans Houtt) Rootstocks','S.C. Priyanka, N. Miniraj and H.C. Vikram\r\n','Growth and Yield of Nutmeg Budded on Wild (Myristica beddomei King) and Cultivated (Myristica fragrans Houtt) Rootstocks-S. C. Priyanka-195.pdf','',1,'Nutmeg (Myristica fragrans Houtt.) is commercially propagated through budding rather than grafting. Nutmeg plants budded on wild nutmeg rootstock as well as self-rootstock are popular, but their performance exhibits variation across the locations. Rootstock-scion interaction studies are of high relevance in this perennial tree spice. Very less information is available on the field performance of budded nutmeg trees on various rootstocks. The present study was conducted with the objective of assessing the performance of nutmeg trees budded on self (Myristica fragrans) and wild rootstock (Myristica beddomei) in terms of growth and yield. Five budded trees on wild and self-nutmeg rootstock each were purposively selected in the five districts of Kerala. Six morphological and ten yield characteristics were recorded from the selected trees for two consecutive years. Univariate analysis of variance was performed to understand the extent of variation in performance of the budded nutmeg trees on self as well as wild rootstocks. Out of thirteen quantitative morphological and yield characteristics studied, eleven characteristics recorded significantly higher values in the trees budded on self-rootstock. Significantly higher yield characteristics obtained in the trees budded on self-rootstock were high fresh nut (6.93kg/tree) and mace yield per tree (5.19 kg/tree); dry nut (1.92 kg /tree) and mace yield per tree (1.04 kg/tree); and dry kernel yield per tree (3.84 kg/tree). Irrespective of location and altitude, the overall performance of nutmeg trees budded on self-rootstock (Myristica fragrans) was superior than the trees budded on wild rootstock (Myristica beddomei).','Nutmeg, Myristica fragrans, Myristica beddomei, self-rootstock and wild rootstock','This is the first report on comparative evaluation of growth and yield of nutmeg plants budded on self-rootstock as well as wild rootstock. Considering all the growth and yield parameters together, irrespective of location and altitude, plants budded on self-rootstock (Myristica fragrans) were superior when compared to the plants budded on wild rootstock (Myristica beddomei).','-','S.C. Priyanka, N. Miniraj and H.C. Vikram (2023). Growth and Yield of Nutmeg Budded on Wild (Myristica beddomei King) and Cultivated (Myristica fragrans Houtt) Rootstocks. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 15(3): 1269-1275.'),(6284,'150','Evaluation of Eco-friendly Seed Protectants Against Lesser Grain Borer, Rhizopertha dominica in Paddy, Oryza sativa L. under Storage','R. Pungavi, V. Maheswari, K. Kumar and B. Padmapriya','Evaluation of Eco-friendly Seed Protectants Against Lesser Grain Borer, Rhizopertha dominica in Paddy, Oryza sativa L. under Storage-R Pungavi-9.pdf','',1,'Safe storage of grains against insect damage is a serious concern. Usage of chemicals are detrimental effect on human as well as environment so plants parts are known to be a potential source of insecticidal properties with safer to human. Keeping in this view the effectiveness of plant derived products for the management of the lesser grain borer, Rhizopertha dominica Fab, a laboratory experiment was carried out during 2018 in stored paddy. Seeds were treated with inorganic insecticides include Emamectin benzoate 5SG @ 2 ppm kg-1 and Delatmethrin 2.8 EC @ 1 ppm/kg and botanicals such as Neem azal 1.0 EC 10000 ppm, Karanji oil at 5 ml/kg, Citronella oil at 5 ml/kg and Acorus calamus at 10 ml/kg seed and untreated check. All treatments were found to be superior in controlling pest population in storage condition. Among the botanicals treated, Acorus calamus was found to be best in recorded maximum germination percentage (95.00%), moisture content (11.89%), adult morality (90.54%), 100 seed weight (1.38) and minimum number of live adults (0.01%), weight loss (1.47%) and grain damage (6.00%) upto 90 days of storage. Therefore, Acorus calamus @ 10 ml kg-1 seed has found effective in maintaining the seed quality with minimum seed infestation up to ninety days of storage in paddy grains.','paddy, lesser grain borer, Rhizopertha dominica, management, botanicals','It was concluded that A. calamus showed highest effectiveness in protecting rice grains from R. dominca infestation upto 90 days of storage. Plant-derived insecticides have long been a potent tool in farmers\' weapon systems for controlling insect pests on their agricultural production. A greener alternative to synthetic preservatives with chemical origin, essential oils and insecticidal rich bioactive components from plants have strong insecticidal property, fungitoxicity in application and mycotoxin inhibitory activity, against pest, so therefore botanicals especially essential oil can be recommended in future for integrated pest management systems and IPM modules as ecofriendly and promoting sustainable agricultural production. ','-','R. Pungavi, V. Maheswari, K. Kumar and B. Padmapriya (2023). Evaluation of Eco-friendly Seed Protectants Against Lesser Grain Borer, Rhizopertha dominica in Paddy, Oryza sativa L. under Storage. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 15(3): 52-58.'),(6285,'150','Prevalence of Alternaria Leaf Blight of Broad Bean in the Valley Districts of Manipur','Rimamay Konjengbam, L.N.K. Singh, Ph. Sobita Devi, B. Sinha, K.I. Singh and N. Gopimohan Singh ','Prevalence of Alternaria Leaf Blight of Broad Bean in the Valley Districts of Manipur-Rimamay Konjengbam-10.pdf','',1,'Alternaria leaf blight of broad bean is one of the significant fungal diseases of broad bean in Manipur. The disease initiates from the older plant parts, spreads to the younger parts and eventually the entire plants are affected. The affected plant becomes completely blighted. The disease is predominantly distributed in the valley districts of Manipur. The disease incidence and severity varied among all the selected locations of the districts in study. The disease incidence ranges between 29.67% to 59.67% during 2020-2021 and 49.00% to 84.00% during 2021-2022. The disease severity ranges between 19.11% and 51.78% during 2020-2021 and 26.15% and 62.96% during 2021-2022. The disease incidence and severity in all the surveyed areas were lowest in December and highest in February. All the fungal isolates collected from the surveyed areas produced a typical disease lesion in pathogenicity tests on broad bean plants and detached broad bean leaves. The extent of pathogenicity on both the plants and detached leaves varies for all the fungal isolates. The presence of concentric rings on the leave lesion is the most conspicuous symptom of this disease. As the disease progressed, the plant becomes blighted and dried. ','Broad bean, Alternaria alternata, blight, concentric rings, incidence, severity, pathogenicity','Alternaria leaf blight of broad bean is widely distributed in the valley districts of Manipur. The disease exceptionally affects the eatable portions namely, broad bean pods, seeds and leaves. The disease remarkably reduces yield and quality of the produce thereby causing notable economic losses. The disease is distinguishable by the presence of characteristics target board or concentric rings on the leave lesions. In the later stage the entire plants becomes wilted and completely dried up. The frequency of this disease varied among all the five valley districts of Manipur. ','-','Rimamay Konjengbam, L.N.K. Singh, Ph. Sobita Devi, B. Sinha, K.I. Singh and N. Gopimohan Singh (2023). Prevalence of Alternaria Leaf Blight of Broad Bean in the Valley Districts of Manipur. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 15(3): 59-71.'),(6286,'150','Effect of Transplanting Dates and Nitrogen Levels on Yield Attributes of Tomato in Temperate Region of Kashmir','Fouzea Nisar, Shahnaz Mufti, Bilal Lone, Insha Majid, Baseerat Afroza, Faheema Mushtaq, Shaila din, Janeesa Nabi and Insha Javeed ','Effect of Transplanting Dates and Nitrogen Levels on Yield Attributes of Tomato in Temperate Region of Kashmir-Fouzea Nisar-11.pdf','',1,'A field investigation was undertaken during kharif seasons of 2020 and 2021 at Vegetable Experimental Farm of Division of Vegetable Science, SKUAST-Kashmir, Shalimar with an objective to study the effect of different dates of planting and different levels of nitrogen in Kashmir region. The experiment was setup in 3×5 factorial design with 3 dates of transplanting (30th April, 14th May and 28th May) as main plot treatments and 5 levels of nitrogen as sub plot treatments (80, 100, 120 140 and 160 kg ha-1) during two consecutive Kharif seasons of 2020 and 2021. The experimental results showed that different planting dates and nitrogen levels showed significant influence on reproductive characters of tomato including fruit yield. The pooled data regarding yield attributing parameters viz., fruit length, fruit diameter, number of fruits per plant, average fruit weight, fruit yield was found to be maximum when crop was transplanted on 14th May during both consecutive seasons recording the values of 6.52cm, 4.50cm, 18.98, 41.62 g and 295.72 q ha-1 respectively with nitrogen application of 100kg per ha recording the values of 6.80cm for fruit length, 4.71 cm for fruit diameter, 19.51 for number of fruits per plant, 42.28 g for average fruit weight and 282.11 q ha-1 for fruit yield which was significantly superior to all other treatments but statistically at par with 120 kg nitrogen application during both the seasons. Despite the fact that tomato production appears to be increasing over the years, yield continues to fall due to poor cultural practices, particularly the use of N doses and transplanting dates. If planting time coincides with optimal ecological conditions for better germination, it may result in better plant development and, as a result, it may lead to a higher yield of high-quality fruits. As a result, increase in yield through N dose manipulation and determining the optimal transplanting date is critical so that the plants are exposed to favourable environmental conditions during their growth period for fruit set and higher total yield. In light of the foregoing facts, a site-specific demonstrative trial was conducted at the SKUAST-K experimental field in Shalimar.','Transplanting dates, Nitrogen, main plot, reproductive characters, fruit length, fruit diameter, fruit yield','It can be concluded that yield attributes were improved when the crop was transplanted on 14th May with application of 100kg of nitrogen per ha which was statistically at par with 120 kg N per ha during both the seasons. Suitable N fertilizer rate (NFR) and ideal planting date (PD) increased and improved source-to-sink relationship and dry matter accumulation, which is a component for increasing the fruit yield and profitability of the crop. Agronomic adjustment in N fertilization and PD would enhance resource use efficiency.','-','Fouzea Nisar, Shahnaz Mufti, Bilal Lone, Insha Majid, Baseerat Afroza, Faheema Mushtaq, Shaila din, Janeesa Nabi and Insha Javeed (2023). Effect of Transplanting Dates and Nitrogen Levels on Yield Attributes of Tomato in Temperate Region of Kashmir. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 15(3): 72-77.'),(6287,'150','Assessing Effect of Weed management Practices on Physical Soil properties in An Acid Alfisol of Western Himalayas','Neha Chauhan, Sanjay K. Sharma, S.S. Rana, Naveen Datt, Pardeep Kumar, Shabnam, Sakshi Vishvamitera, Deeksha Choudhary, Brij Vanita, Shivani Thakur, Gaytri Hetta, Sarwan Kumar and Nikhil Chauhan ','Assessing-Effect-of-Weed-management-Practices-on-Physical-Soil-properties-in-An-Acid-Alfisol-of-Western-Himalayas-Neha Chauhan-12.pdf','',1,'An experiment on weed management was initiated from kharif 2019 to rabi 2020-21 in a maize– pea cropping system at the Experimental Farm of Department of Agronomy, Chaudhary Sarwan Kumar Himachal Pradesh Krishi Vishvavidyalaya, Palampur under the network of All India Coordinated Research Project on weed management since 2016. There were ten treatments viz. (T1: Hoeing; T2: SSB + Hoeing; T3: RSSB + Hoeing; T4: Mulching; T5: SSB + Mulching; T6: RSSB + mulching; T7: intercropping; T8: crop rotation; T9: intensive cropping and T10: chemical check) which were duplicated three fold in a randomized block design. The soil physical parameters viz. were analysed using standard analytical method. Among physical soil properties, the bulk density and particle density value was recorded highest in the chemical check (T10) and lowest in the treatment RSSB + Mulch (T6), whereas the properties viz. porosity, water holding capacity, saturated hydraulic conductivity, mean weight diameter recorded the highest values in the treatment RSSB + mulch (T6) followed by intercropping (T7) and the lowest values were observed in chemical check (T10).','weed management, mulching, stale seed bed, physical properties, intensive cropping','The present study demonstrated that different organic weed management practices improved the soil physical properties over chemical check. The treatment RSSB + mulch resulted higher value of all soil physical properties in comparison to chemical check. Thus, it can be concluded that organic manures like FYM and vermicompost dominance over fertilizers and plays an important role to maintain soil physical health by improving soil physical properties. ','-','Neha Chauhan, Sanjay K. Sharma, S.S. Rana, Naveen Datt, Pardeep Kumar, Shabnam, Sakshi Vishvamitera, Deeksha Choudhary, Brij Vanita, Shivani Thakur, Gaytri Hetta, Sarwan Kumar and Nikhil Chauhan (2023). Assessing Effect of Weed management Practices on Physical Soil properties in An Acid Alfisol of Western Himalayas. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 15(3): 78-84.'),(6288,'150','Exploitation of Saline Tolerant Rhizobacteria for their Potential Saline Tolerant Traits and Plant Growth Promoting Activity under in vitro conditions','Lohith Kumar N., Arati, Ameer Pasha B., Abhinandana K.R. and Krishna Naik L. ','Exploitation-of-Saline-Tolerant-Rhizobacteria-for-their-Potential-Saline-Tolerant-Traits-and-Plant-Growth-Promoting-Activity-under-in-vitro-conditions-Lohith Kumar N Arati-13.pdf','',1,'One of the major obstacles to improving agricultural output and quality has been salty soil. The symbiotic heterogeneous bacteria known as plant growth-promoting rhizobacteria (PGPR) are critical to the recycling of plant nutrients through phytostimulation and phytoremediation. There is need of exploitation of saline tolerant rhizobacterial strains to overcome the salinity stress. In the present study eight potential saline tolerant rhizobacteria which were showed tolerance upto 23% NaCl were further screened for saline tolerant traits and plant growth promoting activity under in-vitro saline conditions. The results revealed that among the isolates, Bacillus subtilis GAN-4 and Staphylococcus cohnii MAN-3 exhibited higher nutrient uptake and biofilm formation, and also recorded higher siderophore production, Proline production and Total phenol production compare to other isolates under in-vitro conditions. Hence, these saline tolerant rhizobacteria isolated from saline soil can be used to counteract the negative effects of saline stress on plants, with beneficial effects of physiological functions of plants such as growth and yield.','Salinity tolerance, Rhizobacteria, in vitro conditions','Rhizobacteria that support plant growth under saline tolerant environments have developed a number of mechanisms to deal with salinity stress, including efflux systems, the production and accumulation of compatible solutes for regulating external osmotic pressure, the production of ROS, as well as other methods. There is still much more has to be discovered about how the saline tolerant rhizobacteria support themselves and their symbiotic partner during salinity stress, which has numerous negative effects on the cell. The present study on saline tolerant rhizobacteria demonstrates their enormous potential for improving the productivity of agro-ecosystems with salt concerns. To develop specialised bioformulations for saline soil systems, which are becoming more prevalent all over the world on a daily basis, in-depth studies targeting gene level expression and functional characteristics of saline tolerant rhizobacteria involved in plant growth promotion under salinity stress must be conducted in the near future.','-','Lohith Kumar N., Arati, Ameer Pasha B., Abhinandana K.R. and Krishna Naik L. (2023). Exploitation of Saline Tolerant Rhizobacteria for their Potential Saline Tolerant Traits and Plant Growth Promoting Activity under in vitro conditions. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 15(3): 85-90.'),(6289,'150','Phototactic Response and Taxonomic Distribution of Predaceous Species of Paddy Ecosystem','Amit Kumar Sharma, Neeraj Kumar, Naveen, Shardhha Tare, Siddarth Nayak and Sitaram Seervi ','Phototactic-Response-and-Taxonomic-Distribution-of-Predaceous-Species-of-Paddy-Ecosystem-Neeraj Kumar-14.pdf','',1,'The present investigation was carried out at the Research Farm of the College of Agriculture, JNKVV, Jabalpur (M.P.) during Kharif 2020 with a view to collect valuable information on the distribution of predatory species of paddy ecosystem in the Jabalpur region. The majority of nocturnal insect pests with a positive phototropic response are being controlled with light traps. Therefore, gathering data and documentation on natural enemies found in the paddy ecosystem\'s light traps is equally crucial. During the investigation, light trap collection was represented by a total of 17 predatory species. These species belong to 5 orders and 13 families. Among these orders, Coleoptera was the highest order with 4 families and 6 species. The highest size of trap catch of 3,856 beetles was recorded in Coccinella sp. of the family Coccinellidae. Hemiptera was the next order, represented by 3 families and 5 species. Major hemipteroid predatory species were Canthecona furcellata (166), Antilochus sp. (122) Ectomocoris cordiger (145), Sirthenea sp. (98) and Erthesina fullo (52). Among the other predatory orders, Odonata was represented by Libellula sp. (224) and Coenagrion sp. (52). Similarly orders Hymenoptera was also represented by two species viz. Eumenes sp. (58) and Dorylus sp. (21) while order Dictioptera was represented by only one species each. Thus, these results concluded that the positive benefit far outweighs the negative effect, demonstrating the safety of using light traps in IPM programmes with regard to their influence on natural enemies.','Predator, distribution, light trap, paddy, ecosystem, Integrated Pest Management, monitoring','The present study indicated the presence of 17 phototropic predatory species in the paddy ecosystem of the Balaghat region while the majority of well-known predatory and parasitic species were either very rare or absent from trap catches. As a result, the positive benefit far outweighs the negative effect, demonstrating the safety of using light traps in IPM programmes with regard to their influence on natural enemies. ','-','Amit Kumar Sharma, Neeraj Kumar, Naveen, Shardhha Tare, Siddarth Nayak and Sitaram Seervi (2023). Phototactic Response and Taxonomic Distribution of Predaceous Species of Paddy Ecosystem. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 15(3): 91-94.'),(6290,'150','Identification of High Yielding Water Use Efficient F6 and F7 Families Derived from the Cross of GKVK-16 × KCG-2 in Groundnut (Arachis hypogaea L.)','R. Padmashree, J. Shanthala, M. Honnappa , D.L. Savithramma, R. Sanjeevkumar, E. Gangappa and A.G. Shankar ','Identification-of-High-Yielding-Water-Use-Efficient-F6-and-F7-Families-Derived-from-the-Cross-of-GKVK-16-×-KCG-2-in-Groundnut-(Arachis-hypogaea-L.)-Padmashree R-15.pdf','',1,'Yield is a complex trait, governed by many traits and there is ample evidence to show that selection directly for grain yield in plants is not easy. However, groundnut frequently experiences drought stresses for various durations and intensities. Yield losses attributable to drought are highly variable depending on timing, intensity and duration in addition to other location-specific environmental stress factors like high irradiation and temperature. Losses in yield that are due to water stress can be tackled partially by developing varieties that are better adapted to water scares conditions with yield advantage. With this background an experiment was conducted to understand the genetic potential, heritability, genetic advance and traits association of yield contributing characters for F6 and F7 families derived from the cross GKVK-16 × KCG-2 at the University of Agricultural Sciences, Bangalore in an augmented block design along with three checks viz., TMV-2, KCG-6 and KCG-2 during summer and Kharif 2016. Results from analysis of variance (ANOVA) revealed that highly significant differences were observed for all the characters studied. High genetic variability was observed for major yield contributing characters like the number of pods per plant (g), pod yield (g), kernel yield per plant (g), SMK% (sound mature kernel per cent), SCMR (SPAD chlorophyll meter reading) and SLA (specific leaf area) (cm2/g). Narrow difference between GCV (genotypic coefficient of variation) and PCV (phenotypic coefficient of variation) was observed for pods per plant, pod yield, SCMR and SLA and high heritability coupled with moderate genetic advance per cent mean was recorded for pod yield, SCMR and SLA indicating the involvement of additive gene action in controlling these traits. Among 84 families studied 14 families have been selected based on high SCMR values, low SLA, more number of pods per plant, high shelling% and high pod yield over parents and checks were identified to be the important characters that could be used in selection for yield and the selected families will be tested further in multi rows for yield stabilization.','GCV, PCV, Heritability, GAM, water use efficiency, Groundnut.','Analysis of variance for all the characters studied in both F6 and F7 generations revealed highly significant differences among the families suggesting the presence of sufficient amount of variability. Further, genetic variability estimates such as PCV and GCV coupled with high heritability and genetic advance as per cent mean for kernel yield per plant, pod yield per plant and sound mature kernel percentage, SLA indicating the presence of sufficient variability and involvement of additive gene action in both F6 and F7 generations for these traits. Days to first flowering SCMR exhibited lower PCV and GCV estimates and thus indicating less variation for this trait. Phenotypic correlation coefficient depicted significant positive association of SCMR, pods per plant and kernel yield per plant with pod yield per plant. SLA exhibited significant negative association with pod yield per plant and SCMR. Therefore, superior genotypes for high yield and water use efficiency were selected depending on the relationship between SLA, SCMR and pod yield. From the overall study fourteen superior families from cross GKVK-16×KCG-2 were selected from F7 generation for multi-location evaluation.','-','R. Padmashree, J. Shanthala, M. Honnappa , D.L. Savithramma, R. Sanjeevkumar, E. Gangappa and A.G. Shankar (2023). Identification of High Yielding Water Use Efficient F6 and F7 Families Derived from the Cross of GKVK-16 × KCG-2 in Groundnut (Arachis hypogaea L.). Biological Forum – An International Journal, 15(3): 95-101.'),(6291,'149','Hormonal and Molecular Mechanism of Phosphorous Use Efficiency in Crop Improvement','Padmashree R., Honnappa M. and Umesh Babu B.S.','Hormonal-and-Molecular-Mechanism-of-Phosphorous-Use-Efficiency-in-Crop-Improvement-Padmashree R-196.pdf','',1,'Phosphorus (P) is an essential macronutrient for all living organisms. In plants, P plays basic biological functions as a structural element in nucleic acids and phospholipids, in energy metabolism and in the regulation of enzymes. P deficiency in soils is a major limiting factor for crop growth and deficiencyis widely spread inthe countries like, Bangladesh, India, Indonesia, Nepal, Pakistan, South China, and Vietnam. The increasing demand for agricultural production poses a global challenge to improve the phosphorous use efficiency (PUE) in plants due to its low availability in a large proportion of arable lands. Phosphorus efficiency has been defined as the processes by which plants acquire, translocate, accumulate, and utilize this nutrient to better produce dry matter and/or grain under conditions of high and low supply. Food production requires application of fertilizers containing phosphorus, nitrogen and potassium on agricultural fields in order to sustain crop yields. However modern agriculture is dependent on phosphorus derived from phosphate rock, which is a non-renewable resource and current global reserves may be depleted in 50–100 years. While phosphorus demand is projected to increase, the expected global peak in phosphorus production is predicted to occur around 2030. Hence the present review is aim to understand the mechanism of PUE in relation with response of hormonal signal and molecular level. Application of this knowledge, in terms of developing crop plants having enhanced attributes for P use efficiency, along with agricultural sustainability in the face of diminishing global P supplies.','PUE, Hormones, Crop improvement, signaling mechanism, molecular mechanism','P as an essential plant macronutrient, the low availability of phosphorus (P) in most soils imposes serious limitation on crop production. Plants have evolved complex responsive and adaptive mechanisms for acquisition, remobilization and recycling of phosphate (Pi) to maintain P homeostasis. Spatio‐temporal molecular, physiological, and biochemical Pi deficiency responses developed by plants are the consequence of local and systemic sensing and signaling pathways. Pi deficiency is sensed locally by the root system where hormones serve as important signaling components in terms of developmental reprogramming, leading to changes in root system architecture.','-','Padmashree R., Honnappa, M. and Umesh Babu B.S. (2023). Hormonal and Molecular Mechanism of Phosphorous Use Efficiency in Crop Improvement. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 15(2): 1276-1280.'),(6292,'150','Analytical account of Groundwater Situation in different Districts of Delhi and its Comparison with Bordering Districts of Haryana, India','Rajni Arora, Neera Mehra and Sushma Sharma','Analytical-Account-of-Groundwater-Situation-in-Different-Districts-of-Delhi-and-its-Comparison-with-Bordering-Districts-of-Haryana,-India-Neera-Mehra-16.pdf','',1,'Groundwater is one of the valuable natural resource used in agriculture, industries, and for domestic purposes. It is present in the aquifers located below the surface of the earth in the pores and crevices of the rocks. The depleting groundwater levels is a matter of concern as it is associated with risks like drying up of wells, decreasing water in streams and lakes, increasing salinity of water, depleting quality of water and land subsidence. A comparison of groundwater levels from 2000 to 2022 brings a picture of decline and fluctuations in districts of the capital city, Delhi and its neighbouring state, Haryana. It also suggests that the situation of Delhi is better and improved in the last five years than that of Haryana as the percentage of overexploited assessment zones is reduced. Out of the eleven districts of Delhi, the South district has undergone extensive decline in groundwater levels and in Central Delhi water level has remained unchanged. The changing trend of groundwater levels in various districts calls for the differential extraction of groundwater depending upon its local availability. The study helps to identify reasons for depleting groundwater resources in different districts of Delhi, a metropolitan city, and neighbouring agricultural state, Haryana. It highlights the need for urgent steps to be taken for its conservation and better management. Suggestions are put forward to alleviate the problem of its scarcity and to attain sustainable use of groundwater.','Groundwater level, assessment zones, overexploited, groundwater extraction, urbanization, sustainable','Our findings suggest that condition of groundwater levels in districts of Delhi is improving in the last five years except South district where urgent measures are needed to tackle the still deteriorated groundwater state. The condition of groundwater situation in Delhi (metropolitan city) is better than Haryana (agricultural state) though the reasons of decline in both the states are different. Increasing dependence of agriculture sector of Haryana on groundwater is a challenge to be tackled judiciously. Government initiatives along with sensitization and awareness in public is required for sustainable use of groundwater.','-','Rajni Arora, Neera Mehra and Sushma Sharma (2023). Analytical Account of Groundwater Situation in Different Districts of Delhi and its Comparison with Bordering Districts of Haryana, India. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 15(3): 102-107.'),(6293,'150','Influence of Aeroponic System on Quality Parameters of V-1 Mulberry','Nishchitha G.A., Chandrashekhar S., Bhaskar R.N., Nirmala K.S. and Lavanya C. ','Influence-of-Aeroponic-System-on-Quality-Parameters-of-V-1-Mulberry-Nishchitha-GA-17.pdf','',1,'Due to increasing problems in soil-based crop production, such as the loss of arable land, soil degradation, soil-borne pathogens and the impacts of climate change, soilless culture systems are currently one of the fastest-growing sectors. Growing plants in a limited rooting volume, root restriction, is a powerful technique to improve the utilization efficiency of agricultural resources such as space, water, and nutrition. Looking into these advantages and to explore the possibility of growing the V-1 mulberry saplings under aeroponics the study was undertaken. Propagating hard wood cuttings using aeroponics can indeed be challenging, as there are not many studies available on this topic. However, with careful experimentation and observation, we developed an aeroponic system for mulberry cuttings propagation. The quality parameters of mulberry saplings (Morus sp.) grown under aeroponic system and nursery condition were assessed at 60 days after transplanting. The plants grown under aeroponic system were recorded maximum for protein percentage and leaf nutrient contents (N, P, K, Ca, Mg, S). Total chlorophyll content in mulberry leaf and carbohydrate percentage were found maximum under nursery conditions. However, the percent leaf moisture and moisture retention capacity after 6 hours were found on par under both the systems. Among treatments, three buds per cutting recorded maximum for all the quality parameters followed by two buds per cutting and one bud per cutting. Among interaction, three budded cuttings under aeroponic system recorded maximum leaf quality parameters nutrient contents (N, P, K, Ca, Mg, S) (2.18, 0.49, 3.48, 0.45, 0.37 and 0.27%) and protein percentage (13.65%) whereas least was recorded by one budded cuttings under nursery at 60 DAT. However, three budded cuttings under nursery recorded maximum carbohydrate content (18.03%). There was no significant difference with respect to total chlorophyll content, leaf moisture percentage and moisture retention capacity after 6 hours.','Aeroponics, Nursery, V-1 Mulberry, Quality parameters','The results of the present investigation indicated that, the quality parameters of V-1 mulberry saplings are influenced by propagation systems (aeroponic system and nursery conditions), different number of buds (one, two and three) on cuttings and the interaction effect of both systems of propagation and varying number of buds on cuttings. Based on this, it can be inferred that mulberry leaves grown aeroponically have higher quality parameters which are relevant to the growth and development of silkworms. The results also suggests that the use of aeroponically grow mulberry leaves for chawki rearing could lead to enhanced growth and development of silkworms. However, it is important to note that the exact effects of aeroponically grown leaves on silkworm growth and development may require further research and validation.','-','Nishchitha G.A., Chandrashekhar S., Bhaskar R.N., Nirmala K.S. and Lavanya C. (2023). Influence of Aeroponic System on Quality Parameters of V-1 Mulberry. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 15(3): 108-114.'),(6294,'150','Prevalence of Anemia among College Going Adolescent Girls of Ganjam District, Odisha: A Cross-sectional Study','Suryamani Patro, Brundaban Sahu, Chandrashree Lenka and Anushriya Sahoo','Prevalence-of-Anemia-Among-College-Going-Adolescent-Girls-of-Ganjam-District,-Odisha-A-Cross-sectional-Study-Brundaban Sahu-18.pdf','',1,'Anaemia is a global health concern affecting adolescents and children in developing countries. The prevalence of anemia among adolescents in the South-East Asian region ranges from 27% to 55%. The significant challenges of anemia include poor cognitive and motor development. Hence, this cross-sectional study aimed to assess the extent of the prevalence of anemia and the impact of underlying factors among adolescent girls. Three hundred college-going adolescent girls from Ganjam district, Odisha, constituted the samples. The study reported a high prevalence (>90%) of anemia. About half of the anemic adolescents were underweight, and a majority (> 70%) belonged to the upper lower socio -economic class. Except for Body Mass Index and prevalence of clinical signs, no other socio-economic variables and food consumption patterns show any statistically significant association with the severity of anemia. The study concluded with suggestions to develop strategies to improve the socio-economic condition of the population, supported by nutrition education and anemia prophylaxis programs.','Adolescent girls, hemoglobin, anaemia, BMI, anthropometric measurement, socio-economic class','The Study on the prevalence of anemia among the sample population recorded as high as 93% of the adolescent girls were anemic belonging to mild and moderate categories. The highest numbers of anemia cases (50%) were under-weighed adolescents and a majority (> 70%) of anemic respondents belongs to upper lower socio-economic class. No statistically significant (p>0.05) correlation was observed between the severity of anemia and their food consumption pattern, but a highly significant correlation (p<0.01) between the prevalence of the various clinical signs with that of anemia was observed among the sample population particularly those diagnosed with moderate anemia. Hence it may be concluded from the study that the low socio-economic class of the respondents may be the contributing factor for the prevalence of anemia to such an extent among the adolescent girls in the study area.','-','Suryamani Patro, Brundaban Sahu, Chandrashree Lenka and Anushriya Sahoo (2023). Prevalence of Anemia among College Going Adolescent Girls of Ganjam District, Odisha: A Cross-sectional Study. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 15(3): 115-121.'),(6295,'150','A Study on the Economical Contribution of Women to Domestic and Productive Tasks in Madhya Pradesh\'s Rewa District ','Aditya Pratap Singh, Ashutosh Kumar Srivastava and Amit Kumar Masih','A-Study-on-the-Economical-Contribution-of-Women-to-Domestic-and-Productive-Tasks-in-Madhya-Pradeshs-Rewa-District-Aditya-Pratap-Singh-19.pdf','',1,'The major contribution of women to agriculture has never been adequately appreciated. The study was conducted in the Teonthar block of Madhya Pradesh\'s Rewa region. Using a random selection methodology, 24 villages were selected, and a sample of 10 households from each village was chosen, according to the number of homes in each category, for a total sample size of 240 respondents. Each sample farm\'s total expenditure for family labour undertaken for the study is Rs. 41,659. In this, men contributed Rs. 33411 compared to women\'s Rs. 8248. Women made up 23.87 percent of those working in agriculture, while they made up 29.61 percent of those working in animal husbandry. 46.52 percent of household tasks were performed by women. The study\'s findings support the notion that the majority of women in farming households contribute significantly to the economy by engaging in agricultural and related activities. ','Women, household activities, animal husbandry, Wages, Teonthar block, Madhya Pradesh.','This study looked at how important it is for women to be involved in agriculture and other related activities and how much of a role they play in cultivating households. In particular, it has been found that women in farming households play a significant role and engage in agricultural and related activities alongside their male counterparts; their evolving role has been elaborated with socioeconomic constraints that impact rural women\'s economic activity. Women\'s efforts to raise living standards and well-being have been elaborated with special reference to a comparison between housewives\' and economically active women\'s contributions in order to better understand the crucial role that women play in rural communities today. The study\'s broad and specific objectives are formed by the combination of all of these components. Women are not included as workers in the Census statistics despite playing a significant role in economic activities. In all social, economic, and political indicators, the status of women remains low. They only have a small amount of authority to make decisions regarding personal or professional matters. \r\nIt was crucial to have a broad perspective on Rewa\'s rural development process because the study\'s objective was to understand how women\'s roles are changing and how they contribute to the rural economy. Rural areas are home to more than 75% of the country\'s population. Therefore, policy planners focused their efforts on rural development in order to achieve national economic and social goals. In this instance, women were given significant consideration as active participants in rural development.\r\n','Amin, H., Ali, T., Ahmad, M. and Zafar, I. M. (2009). Capabilities and competencies of Pakistan rural women in performing household and agriculture tasks: A case study in Tehsil Faisalabad, Pakistan. Pakistan Journal of Agriculture and Science, 46(1). \r\nBeena (2012). Role of ICT Education for Women Empowerment. Journal of Economic Research, 3(3), 164-172. \r\nBoserup, E., Tan, S.F. and Toulmin, C., (2013). Woman\'s role in economic development. Routledge. \r\nBravo and Baumann (2000). Gender and Livestock. Capitalisation of Experiences on Livestock Projects and Gender. Working document. Swiss Development Cooperation, Bern. \r\nChavan, P. and Bedamatta, R. (2006). Trends in agricultural wages in India: 1964–65 to 1999–2000. Economic and Political Weekly, 41(38), 4041–4052. \r\nDas, S. and Mohapatra B. P. (2022). Working conditions of Women Agricultural Labourers in Cuttack District of Odisha, Biological Forum – An International Journal 14(2a), 618- 622. \r\nHandaragama, S., Rathnayake, H. and Uluwaduge, P. (2013). Women’s economic participation in Rural Development: An empirical evidence on Sri-Lanka. An International Journal of education and research, 1(8). \r\nParveen and Awan (2020). Role of women in household development: An economic analysis. Global Journal of Management, Social Sciences and Humanities, 6(4), 785- 805. \r\nLama and Majumder (2018). Gender inequality in wage and employment in Indian labour market. Journal of academic research in economics, 10(3). \r\nPreeti, Kavita Dua, and Poonam Yadav (2022). The Role and Analysis of Women from Ancient to Modern Times in India. Biological Forum – An International Journal 14(2a), 431- 434. \r\nRao, S. (2011). Work and empowerment: Women and agriculture in South India. The Journal of Development Studies, 47(2), 294- 315. \r\nSampreetha, H.N., K. Ravi Shankar, B. Savitha, and K. Bhanu Rekha (2022). A Study on the Awareness of Women Farmers to Climate Change in Rice Crop in Karnataka. Biological Forum – An International Journal 14(3), 873-877. \r\nSingh, N. (2009). Women Empowerment: A Need of Naxal affected Magadh Region. International Journal of Theoretical & Applied Sciences, 1(1), 145-148. \r\nSenthil Kumar and Sana Begum M. (2020). Economic Impact of Gender Inequality in Service Sector in Bengaluru City. International Journal on Emerging Technologies 11(3), 212- 217. \r\nSofa (2011). The Role of Women in Agriculture, Agricultural Development Economics Division the Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations, 1-47. \r\n','Aditya Pratap Singh, Ashutosh Kumar Srivastava and Amit Kumar Masih (2023). A Study on the Economical Contribution of Women to Domestic and Productive Tasks in Madhya Pradesh\'s Rewa District. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 15(3): 122-127.'),(6296,'150','Effect of Integrated Nutrient Management on Yield and Economics of Grain Amaranth (Amaranthus hypochondriacus L.)','Salmankhan R.M., Sukanya T.S., Ameer Pasha B. and Parameshnaik C.','Effect-of-Integrated-Nutrient-Management-on-Yield-and-Economics-of-Grain-Amaranth-(Amaranthus-hypochondriacus-L.)-Salmankhan RM-20.pdf','',1,'Grain Amaranth (Amaranthus hypochondriacus L.), a quick growing and upcoming subsidiary food crop of the future, belonging to the family Amaranthaceae and genus Amaranthus. Although, general package of practices for Grain Amaranth is available at all India level, there are limited studies on Integrated Nutrient Management. Hence, the field experiment was carried out to investigate the impact of integrated nutrient management on grain amaranth (Amaranthus hypochondriacus L) yield and economics at the field unit AICRP on Potential Crops, MRS, Hebbal, UAS, GKVK, Bengaluru during late kharif-2017. Twelve treatments were replicated three times in the RCBD design of the experiment. Bio-fertilizers and various combinations of organic and inorganic nutrition sources are used in treatments. The maximum net return per hectare was Rs. 47851 when 100% RDF and bio-fertilizers were applied. This resulted in significantly higher grain production (1681 kg ha-1) and yield component, including panicle length (48.50 cm), panicle weight (53.73 g), and yield per plant (27.70 g plant-1). Application of 100% N equivalent through vermicompost + bio-fertilizers resulted in a lower net return of Rs. 170.','Economics, Grain Amaranth, Integrated Nutrient Management','Higher yield, yield traits, and economics in the production of grain amaranth can be attained under integrated nutrient management practice. On the basis of results obtained under present investigation and possible reasons for their jaggedness having discussed, the following conclusions were drawn. Application of 100 % recommended dose of fertilizer along with bio-fertilizers are needed for optimization of higher grain yield (1681 kg ha-1) and yield component viz. panicle length (48.50 cm), panicle weight (53.73 g) and yield per plant (27.70 g plant-1), maximum net return of Rs. 47851 per ha. ','-','Salmankhan R.M., Sukanya T.S., Ameer Pasha B. and Parameshnaik C. (2023). Effect of Integrated Nutrient Management on Yield and Economics of Grain Amaranth (Amaranthus hypochondriacus L.). Biological Forum – An International Journal, 15(3): 128-132.'),(6297,'150','The Study on Demographic factors and VKORC1- 1630 G>A gene Polymorphism by using PCR-RFLP in the South Indian Population','Bala Tripura Sundari Ankani and R. Sivaraj','The-Study-on-Demographic-factors-and-VKORC1--1630-GA-gene-Polymorphism-by-using-PCR-RFLP-in-the-South-Indian-Population-Bala Tripura Sundari Ankani-21.pdf','',1,'Deep vein thrombosis, a disease with a high mortality risk. Thomboembolic conditions require oral anticoagulants. Warfarin is used to treat DVT, everybody has a distinct range of dose requirements, and dose variation is influenced by genetic factors. Variations in the dose requirements for warfarin are primarily caused by polymorphism of the gene for vitamin K epoxide reductase complex 1 (VKORC1). The data on promoter polymorphism is limited at present Indian population. The given study is aimed to detect VKORC1 polymorphism distribution in South Indian Population. Ninety six healthy individuals are taken from south Indian population and genotyped for VKORC1-1639 G>A by PCR- RFLP Method.\r\nThe VKORC1-1639G> A in the research group, a gene frequency was found. GG, GA, and AA were discovered in the range of 63.5%, 22.9%, and 13.5%. These results are consistent with how the mutation in the promoter region affects the function of vitamin K epoxide reductase. The prevalence of the wild, heterozygous, and variant homozygous alleles of VKORC1 in the South Indian community differs from that of other known ethnic groups. The therapeutic dosage of oral anticoagulants in the people of South India can be determined using this VKORC1-1639 G>A condition.\r\n','Warfarin, Polymerase chain reaction, VKORC1 gene, polymorphism','Future medical practice will increasingly focus on individualized care. The frequency of VKORC1-1639 AA is 13.5%, which is close to its 23% frequency in Europeans, but it varies from that of Asians and Caucasians. The identification of these polymorphisms in patients by physicians may be useful before the start of therapy. They may use this information to determine the best course of action to reduce unpleasant drug side effects like bleeding and to enhance the curative impact.','-','Bala Tripura Sundari Ankani and R. Sivaraj (2023). The Study on Demographic factors and VKORC1- 1630 G>A gene Polymorphism by using PCR-RFLP in the South Indian Population. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 15(3): 133-137.'),(6298,'150','Review on Nanoparticle Loaded Oral Film an Innovative Approach for Poorly Water-Soluble Drug Delivery','Dipak P. Kardile, Pravin B. Awate, Vishwas C. Bhagat, Adinath C. Bhusari, Nilesh A. Narote, Rajkumar V. Shete, Tushar B. Shinde and Mayur M. Karne','Review-on-Nanoparticle-Loaded-Oral-Film-an-Innovative-Approach-for-Poorly-Water-Soluble-Drug-Delivery-Dipak-P-Kardile-22.pdf','',1,'In this review Nanoparticle loaded oral film have been employed in this method of oral drug delivery to maximize therapeutic benefits while reducing toxic and unfavorable medication effects because enhances the pharmacokinetic and pharmacodynamics characteristics of (BCS) II and IV APIs capable of achieving targeted delivery and easy to provide oral drug delivery of API for high patient compliance for pediatric, geriatric, bedridden patients. More than 50% of APIs are having difficulty in the preparation of oral dosage form due to their poor oral bioavailability and aqueous solubility, primarily APIs in the Biopharmaceutical Classification System (BCS) II and IV. Therefore, API incorporated in Nanoparticles which have high drug carrier capacity, high stability and increase permeability as well as solubility in body fluid. The Nano encapsulated API loading in oral film is challenging occurs in formulation it overcome by selecting better film forming agent. Oral films are effective than oral fast-disintegrating tablets (OFDTs) to overcome the chocking problem for dysphagia and it provide, rapid onset of action, safety and efficacy, excellent dissolution profile.','Nanoparticle, Nanoparticle Preparation, oral film, Method of Preparation, Composition of oral film','The benefits of including NPs loaded oral film have been examined in this paper. This data demonstrates that it is feasible to make films containing NPs with suitable physical-mechanical properties in a single formulation process. Encapsulating active components in Nano materials has been used to increase the stability and permeability of bio macromolecules and reduce their toxicity. NPs can thus be easily converted to oral films and are amenable to being prepared to alter the pharmacokinetic profile of active pharmaceutical ingredients.\r\nIn order to transform unstable physiologically active molecules into promising deliverable pharmaceuticals, difficulties associated with poorly soluble or insoluble lipophilic drug in both organic and aqueous phases must be properly addressed. Additionally, advancements are required to turn the Nano-oral film technology hypothesis into a workable, real-world strategy as the next generation of drug delivery systems. The suggested method may improve patient compliance by increasing solubility and permeability in oral mucosa. This analysis leads us to the conclusion that Nano particle loaded oral film is promising drug delivery system for poorly water soluble and low permeability drug by solving problems associated with it by increasing bioavailability.\r\n','-','Dipak P. Kardile, Pravin B. Awate, Vishwas C. Bhagat, Adinath C. Bhusari, Nilesh A. Narote, Rajkumar V. Shete, Tushar B. Shinde and Mayur M. Karne (2023). Review on Nanoparticle Loaded Oral Film an Innovative Approach for Poorly Water-Soluble Drug Delivery. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 15(3): 138-146.'),(6299,'150','Economic Efficiency of Farmers Adopting E-Commerce for Production and Marketing of Chilli in Guntur District of Andhra Pradesh','Malleswari B., Uma Devi K., Srikanth Rupavatharam and Suseela K.','Economic-Efficiency-of-Farmers-Adopting-E-Commerce-for-Production-and-Marketing-of-Chilli-in-Guntur-District-of-Andhra-Pradesh-Malleswari-B-23.pdf','',1,'In this study, technical, allocative and economic efficiencies and determinants of technical and economic efficiency of farmers adopting e-commerce for chilli production and marketing in Guntur district of Andhra Pradesh was estimated. The platform selected for the study was Kalgudi Digital platform. The farmers purchase inputs such as tarpaulins, silpaulins, seed, plant-protection chemicals etc., from Kalgudi. Proportionate sampling was used to select respondents from six FPOs for the study. Data envelopment analysis was used to determine the efficiencies of the farmers. Multiple-input and single output variable returns to scale (VRS) DEA was used to measure the efficiencies of farmers. Tobit regression model was used to analyse the determinants of technical and economic efficiencies. The results of the study revealed that, the average technical, allocative and economic efficiency of adopters were, 0.953, 0.653 and 0.626 and that of non-adopters were 0.874, 0.664 and 0.582. The entire adopter and non-adopter sample was pooled, and efficiency was calculated to determine the determinants of technical and economic efficiencies using Tobit model. But the results cannot be implied to the entire state as the study has been conducted in one district of Andhra Pradesh with selected sample of farmers. This is the major drawback of the study. The study had contributed to determine the excess inputs that are used by the farmers, so that they can reduce their usage during the cultivation process. ','e-commerce, Kalgudi, DEA, Tobit, FPO, chilli, Guntur','The study established that chilli farmers are inefficient in the production with mean technical, allocative and economic efficiency levels of 0.875, 0.503 and 0.453, respectively. However, adopters are more efficient than non-adopters both technically and economically but allocatively less efficient. This may be due to using high quantities of inputs by adopters. The adopters were using the inputs in higher excessive quantities (land 1.82%, fertilizer 31.02%, PPC- 50.73%, Human labour- 53.98%, Machine 33.22% and animal 25.51%) than non-adopters (land- 63.97%, fertilizer 8.6%, PPC- 10.92 %, Human labour- 5.7%, Machine 5.47% and animal -6.55%). Only excessive usage of land, seed and FYM and other inputs were higher in non-adopters. This indicate that the non-adopters should reduce the usage of inputs and choose much cost-efficient inputs and adopters should properly allocate their inputs in a cost-efficient manner. Another reason for lower AE of adopters is due to high TE of adopters (as AE = EE/TE). A Tobit regression analysis results reveal that the farmer should attend more training programmes and should reduce the cost associated with labour. He should attain credit from authenticated sources like banks with reasonable interest rates rather than unauthorised sources like middleman. \r\nFinding of the study implies that there should be strategies to improve the farmer technique and fulfil the standard requirement so as to further improve the chilli production efficiency in Guntur District of Andhra Pradesh. Moreover, policies and strategies should also support the adoption of new technologies by the farmer. Furthermore, farmers’ associations should also be re-structured in personnel and technology in order to ensure member are benefited from their adoption and improve their resource use efficiency.\r\n','-','Malleswari B., Uma Devi K., Srikanth Rupavatharam and Suseela K. (2023). Economic Efficiency of Farmers Adopting E-Commerce for Production and Marketing of Chilli in Guntur District of Andhra Pradesh. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 15(3): 147-155.'),(6300,'150','A Cross-Sectional Study on the Effect of Yoga on Visual Perception amongst University Students','Seulgi Lee and Paran Gowda','A Cross-Sectional Study on the Effect of Yoga on Visual Perception amongst University Students-Seulgi Lee-24.pdf','',1,'The present study aims to investigate the effects of yoga on visual perception (VP) in university students. VP is essential in our lives, particularly for students, as it plays an important role in learning. If yoga can improve VP, it could benefit not only students\' education but also multiple dimensions of life. This paper examines how VP impacts both yoga practitioners and non-practitioners, and whether yoga practice enhances VP in university students.\r\nIn this study, we enrolled 100 yoga practitioners and 100 non-yoga practitioners, resulting in a total sample size of 200 participants (n=200). The yoga group consisted of 50 females and 50 males who had practiced yoga for at least one year. The control group included 100 non-yoga practitioners, consisting of 50 females and 50 males. We assessed VP using the Motor-Free Visual Perception Test (MVPT-4). The data was analyzed using an independent t-test.\r\nThe yoga group showed significant improvements in Visual Discrimination, Spatial Relationships, Visual Memory, Figure Ground, and Visual Closure compared to the non-yoga group.\r\nThis study shows that the participants who practiced yoga for a minimum of 1 year had better VP ability than the non-yoga participants.\r\n','visual perception, perception, yoga, learning, cognition, mvpt-4','The present study results indicate that the yoga group has significantly better VP than the non-yoga participants. However, in this method, unitary construct as dominant item does not consider the other sub area parameters with regard to VC, VM, VC, FG, and SR. Further, there is a scope for further research and development of subarea scores with a separate scale.','-','Seulgi Lee and Paran Gowda (2023). A Cross-Sectional Study on the Effect of Yoga on Visual Perception amongst University Students. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 15(3): 156-160.'),(6301,'150','Development and Characterization of Chitosan-Functionalized Biodegradable Nanoparticles for the Enhanced Hepatoprotective effects against Liver Fibrosis','Saurabh Arjariya, Ritesh Jain and Neeraj Sharma','Development-and-Characterization-of-Chitosan-Functionalized-Biodegradable-Nanoparticles-for-the-Enhanced-Hepatoprotective-effects-against-Liver-Fibrosis-Saurabh-Arjariya-25.pdf','',1,'The obstacles behind the usage of silymarin (SYL) against liver ailments has a limited oral bioavailability due to its weak water solubility and low membrane permeability, which restricts its therapeutic potential. Develop and test safe, biocompatible, Silymarin dehydroemtine-loaded chitosan nanoparticles (SYL-DH-CNPs) for hepatic administration in order to increase anti-fibrotic activity in rats with CCl4-induced liver fibrosis. The SYL-DH-CNPs was synthesized using the ionotropic gelation procedure, and they are assessed for particle size, shape, and zeta potential analysis. Successfully formulated SYL-DH-CNPs was subjected to in vivo evaluation to determine their therapeutic efficacy for 30 days of animal studies. The in vivo study showed that the synthesised SYL-DH-CNPs had a strong antifibrotic therapeutic efficacy against CCl4 -induced hepatic damage in rats. The liver functions, inflammatory markers, antioxidant pathway activation, and lipid peroxidation reduction in SYL-DH-CNPs -treated rats were all significantly improved. They also had a healthy body weight, normal liver weight and liver index values, and reduced lipid peroxidation. Histopathology analysis confirmed the anti-fibrotic properties of SYL-DH-CNPs. Overall the findings suggested that SYL-DH-CNPs are the most effective carrier to target liver cells elevating the bioavailability at desired site and in the management of hepatic fibrosis.','Silymarin, chronic liver disease, chitosan nanoparticles, SLY bioavailability','In the current study, we used the ionotropic gelation process to successfully create Silymarin-Dehydroemetine-loaded chitosan nanoparticles (SYL-DH-CNPs). The created nanoparticles have physicochemical characteristics that were optimal for effectively delivering Silymarin-DH to target liver cells. When compared to free drug combination the SYL-DH-CNPs in vitro drug release demonstrated greater drug release and bioavailability. Also, the in vivo study\'s findings showed that, when compared to drug itself, the generated SYL-DH-CNPs shown better effects against CCl4 toxicity-induced liver fibrosis with lower oxidative damage and improved antioxidant defence system. This could happen via down regulating the main fibrosis mediators by targeting and enhancing the hepatic expression. Together with the enhanced bio pharmacokinetics lowering level and the decrease of oxidative stress, these results led to the inhibition of the pathogenic pathways responsible for the formation of liver fibrosis, chronic inflammation, and collagen deposition. These findings imply that the oral distribution of SYL-DH in its nanoformulation with SYL-DH-CNPs is a feasible alternative for its potential therapeutic use in the treatment of liver fibrosis. Additionally the usage and delivery of biodegradable chitosan based SLY-DH nanoparticles may increase the bioavailability at the desired site bypassing the systemic toxicity and decreasing the dose duration with dose regimen. In building the targeted drug delivery system against the liver ailment not only decrease the heavy dose dependency of conventional dosage form but also provide the novel therapeutics system against liver disease with negligible toxicity and cost economic management.','-','Saurabh Arjariya, Ritesh Jain and Neeraj Sharma (2023). Development and Characterization of Chitosan-Functionalized Biodegradable Nanoparticles for the Enhanced Hepatoprotective Effects Against Liver Fibrosis. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 15(3): 161-168.'),(6302,'150','Assessments of Coal-Based Thermal Power Plant Effluents affect Physicochemical Factors of the Bhagirathi-Hooghly River, West Bengal','Sanjoy Das and Ashis Kumar Panigrahi','Assessments-of-Coal-Based-Thermal-Power-Plant-Effluents-affect-Physicochemical-Factors-of-the-Bhagirathi-Hooghly-River,-West-Bengal-Sanjoy-Das-26.pdf','',1,'The most significant waterway in West Bengal, India, is the Bhagirathi-Hooghly River, but its water quality has been declined as a result of numerous anthropogenic activities. The purpose of this research is to assess the effects of Sagardighi coal-based thermal power plant\'s effluents on the physicochemical components of the Bhagirathi-Hooghly River. Study was conducted from January to December 2019, water were collected from three different locations upstream (denoted as Site 1), Main spot (Site 2) and downstream (Site 3) of the river to assess water quality changes, due to Sagardighi thermal power plant released waste water into the Bhagirathi-Hooghly River. Standard protocol from American Public Health Association, APHA (1995) used to measured temperature, pH, dissolve oxygen (DO), biological oxygen demand (BOD), chemical oxygen demand (COD), hardness, nitrate, and phosphate. Water required for cooling the turbine resulting warm water or not properly treating waste water released into the river system, rise in water temperature and enrichment in nutrients like nitrate and phosphate resulting eutrophication at site 2 region, decrease in DO during summer season in all sites and particularly in site 2 region low DO level observed. BOD and COD increased in site 2 due high in organic and inorganic pollutant load into the river bed. Calcium and magnesium ions enhance the hardness of site2 and site 3. Findings from this research show that sites 2 and 3 show alterations in physiochemical factors rather than site 1, which affect the aquatic ecosystem\'s health. Drainage system from coal-based thermal power plants emphasizes the need for efficient wastewater treatment and pollution control to protect water supplies and ecosystem.','Bhagirathi-Hooghly River, Coal-based thermal power plant, effluents, physicochemical parameters, eutrophication','The Ganga River or Bhagirathi-Hooghly River seems to be dying slowly because millions of tons of untreated domestic and industrial waste water flows into the river daily. The Ganga River or Bhagirathi-Hooghly suffers from myriad problems, the lean flow during dry season is one of the most significant factor (Kumar et al., 2015). All waste contaminants, including agricultural runoff, domestic and municipal sewage, and industrial effluents, are deposited into the riverbed because it serves as the primary drainage route, raising the organic and mineral burden and resulting in higher BOD and COD by reducing DO. Water microbes and algae thrived due to nitrate and phosphate enrichment, resulting in eutrophication. Water is needed to chill the power plant machine, so when the water came out of the machine, it became heated, and this not properly handled hot water was sometimes dumped into the river, reducing the dissolve oxygen and slightly increasing the water temperature. Because of the increased pollution burden of river banks, waste water may contain some metals and heavy metals that increase hardness and reduce pH level, which is not appropriate for the survival of aquatic ecosystems. As a consequence, aquatic creatures, particularly plankton and fish, endure, and their variety is diminished, influencing the economy tangentially. Before discharging raw waste water into the waterway system, appropriate cleaning and monitoring were required.','-','Sanjoy Das and Ashis Kumar Panigrahi (2023). Assessments of Coal-Based Thermal Power Plant Effluents affect Physicochemical Factors of the Bhagirathi-Hooghly River, West Bengal. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 15(3): 169-175.'),(6303,'150','Effect of Azotobacter and PSB Inoculation on Rhizosphere of Tomato','Sonakshi Pandey, Diptimayee Dash and Tapas Chowdhury','Effect-of-Azotobacter-and-PSB-Inoculation-on-Rhizosphere-of-Tomato-Diptimayee-Dash-27.pdf','',1,'A study was conducted in the Department of Agricultural Microbiology, IGKV during the year 2021-22 to assess the inoculation effect on soil biology in the rhizosphere region of tomato. Studies on the complex microbes–rhizosphere environment and the evaluation of plant growth promotion are considered necessary. Revealing out the details of characterization of Azotobacter and PSB isolates were carried out and their effect on plant growth promotion were more focused as sole and dual inoculation. The study was conducted with tomato crop in Completely Randomized Design with three replicates and eight treatments. Inoculation treatments consisted of sole applications of two strains of Azotobacter (Azoto-B-26 and Azoto-B-24) and two strains of PSB (PSB-S-91 and PSB-S-68) and their dual inoculations. Considering the ill-effects of the inorganic fertilizers and the positive aspects of the microbial inoculants, the present investigation was undertaken to assess the dual inoculation effect of Azotobacter isolate in combination with PSB on the rhizosphere of tomato. The cultural and biochemical characteristics of isolates were studied, which showed positive effect with tests of starch hydrolysis test, catalase test and urease test, while as per the oxidase test except Azoto-B-24 all showed positive reaction. The experimental results revealed that significantly maximum plant height (86.8 cm), plant shoot dry biomass (23.3g plant-1), plant root dry biomass (8.56 plant-1) were noted under T7 (Azoto-B-24 + PSB-S-91) followed by T8 (Azoto-B-24 + PSB-S-68). Better microbial population (Azotobacter and PSB population) in tomato rhizosphere soils was observed under the treatments T7 and T8. Similarly Dehydrogenase activity was recorded maximum as 26.3 µgTPF/g soil/ hour under treatment T7. On the basis of the experimental findings, dual inoculation of promising strains of Azotobacter (Azoto-B-26) and PSB (PSB-S-91) through root inoculation treatment gave better soil biological properties in tomato.','Azotobacter, PSB, Inoculation, Tomato, Rhizosphere and Biomass','From present investigation, it can be concluded that tomato crop receiving dual inoculation of Azotobacter (Azoto-B-24) and PSB (PSB-S-91) recorded superior plant growth, biomass and greatest microbial population in rhizosphere region of tomato plant. The treatments consisting bioinoculants recorded significantly higher values compare to without bioinoculants. Dual inoculation of Azotobacter (Azoto-B-24) and PSB (PSB-S-91) has proved to be the most superior treatment in respect of enhancing soil biological properties and growth performance of tomato.','-','Sonakshi Pandey, Diptimayee Dash and Tapas Chowdhury (2023). Effect of Azotobacter and PSB Inoculation on Rhizosphere of Tomato. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 15(3): 176-180.'),(6304,'150','Autoclave-assisted Green Synthesis of Gumkaraya-based Silver nanoparticles and its Antibacterial Potentials','Shyamala Chandra Rokkala, Vidya Chernapalli, Suresh Velpula and Karuna Rupula','Autoclave-assisted-Green-Synthesis-of-Gumkaraya-based-Silver-nanoparticles-and-its-Antibacterial-Potentials-Karuna-Rupula-28.pdf','',1,'The rise of multidrug-resistant bacterial strains and the lack of therapeutically effective treatments have enhanced the need for the development of innovative antibacterial agents more evident in recent years. Due to their proven antibacterial activity, silver nanoparticles (AgNPs) are of great interest in treating bacterial infections. Highly stable silver nanoparticles have been synthesized using solubilized karaya gum (KG) by autoclave method. The stability of karaya-based nanoparticles (KG-AgNPs) influenced by various factors such as reaction time, pH, ionic and gum concentrations were investigated. The synthesized silver nanoparticles were characterized by UV–Vis spectroscopy, FTIR, XRD, SEM, and TEM. The synthesized KGAgNPs showed significant antibacterial activity on both the gram-positive (S. aureus) and gram-negative (P. aeruginosa) bacteria with a zone of inhibition 13 and 15 mm respectively. The minimum inhibitory concentration (MIC) of the KG-AgNPs for S. aureus and P. aeruginosa were determined as 14 and 10 µg/mL, respectively. The mode of action studies were based on analysis of (membrane damage, K+ ion leakage, and status of ROS) which revealed that the KG-AgNPs act as efficient antibacterial agents. In the present study AgNPs were synthesized using a natural biopolymer (KG) directly without the role of any reducing agent and the as synthesized nanoparticles act as a potent antibacterial agents for pharmaceutical applications in near future. In conclusion, the KG-AgNPs synthesized were highly stable and effective antibacterial agents.','Silver nanoparticles, Green synthesis, Karaya gum, antibacterial activity, oxidative stress, mode of action','The present investigation, reports the synthesis of silver nanoparticles using karaya gum as a stabilizing and reducing agent by the green chemistry approach. The as synthesized KG-AgNPs were successfully characterized by UV-Vis spectroscopic analysis, FT-IR, TEM, SEM, and XRD. The synthesized KG-NPs showed optimal antibacterial activities against S. aureus and P. aeruginosa. The KG-AgNPs exhibited cytoplasmic leakage studies, membrane damage, disrupted permeability, and enhanced ROS production against both gram-positive and gram-negative bacteria in comparison to amikacin, a standard antibiotic. In conclusion, the results of the current study indicate that the karaya gum-based AgNPs have potential antibacterial activity. The study encourages to further improvise in terms of the synthesis of desired nanostructures (size and shape) with extensive applications in the development of potential nano drugs that can target bacteria particularly multidrug-resistant ones, various other microbial pathogens, and also as biosensors in diagnostics.','-','Shyamala Chandra Rokkala, Vidya Chernapalli, Suresh Velpula and Karuna Rupula (2023). Autoclave-assisted Green Synthesis of Gumkaraya-based Silver nanoparticles and its Antibacterial Potentials. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 15(3): 181-191.'),(6305,'150','Optimization of Culture Conditions for Polyhydroxybutyrate (PHB) Production in the Positive Bacterial Isolates of the Garden Soil','Mahitha S., Sasi Premila J.M. and Abiya Chelliah D.','Optimization-of-Culture-Conditions-for-Polyhydroxybutyrate-(PHB)-Production-in-the-Positive-Bacterial-Isolates-of-the-Garden-Soil-Mahitha-S-29.pdf','',1,'Solid plastic waste management issues and global environmental concerns have led to the development of biodegradable plastics which will have similar physical and chemical properties of the conventional plastics. Soil bacteriology possess many different bacteria which possess unique properties. Polyhydroxybutyrates (PHB) are the biological macromolecules produced by numerous soil bacteria and these can be used efficiently as an alternative to conventional plastics. In this research, Polyhydroxybutyrate producing bacteria are isolated from garden soil sample and potent producer identified by Crotonic acid assay. The amount of production of PHB are usually limited due to unbalanced growth conditions and nutrient availability. So these bacteria need optimised condition for maximal production of PHB. Modification of culture conditions, media composition, incubation period, inoculum size, pH, temperature, carbon nitrogen ratio, etc has a notable effect in the production. Slight changes in production conditions alter the bacterial growth in turn making changes in production of PHB. In the present study conducted, the potent strain SM1 was optimised and the optimal conditions were incubation period - 72 hours, inoculum size –2ml, Carbon sources – Glucose, Nitrogen source – Peptone, Carbon: nitrogen ratio – 15:1, Natural source – Rice water, pH –7, Temperature –37°C. Maintaining these optimised conditions during production process, maximum amount of PHB was produced. Further, large scale production can be done in fermenters with these optimised conditions for more production.','Polyhydroxybutyrate, Crotonic acid assay, inoculum, fermenters, plastic waste management','The optimised conditions, 2ml inoculum yielded 0.25g/100ml, incubation period 72 hrs – 0.28g/100ml, carbon source glucose – 0.28 g/100ml, nitrogen source peptone – 0.27g/100ml, glucose: peptone (15:1) – 0.31g/100ml, Rice water – 0.28 g/100ml, pH 7- 0.26g/100ml, Temperature 37oC – 0.25 g/100ml. By incorporating the optimised conditions, higher production of polyhydroxybutyrate was achieved.','-','Mahitha S., Sasi Premila J.M. and Abiya Chelliah D. (2023). Optimization of Culture Conditions for Polyhydroxybutyrate (PHB) Production in the Positive Bacterial Isolates of the Garden Soil. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 15(3): 192-198.'),(6306,'150','Photocatalytic and in vitro Antioxidant Activity of Terminalia chebula Fruits Mediated ZnO Nanoparticles','Rathika R., Mahmoodah Parveen K., Suganthi P., Kannadasan N. and Srinivasan K. ','Photocatalytic-and-in-vitro-Antioxidant-Activity-of-Terminalia-chebula-Fruits-Mediated-ZnO-Nanoparticles-Rathika-R-30.pdf','',1,'The synthesis of metallic nanoparticles using phytocompounds has drawn a lot of interest from scientists and the pharmaceutical sector. The phytocompounds from Terminalia chebula are the most promising in Southeast Asian nations for treating a wide range of human illnesses. Zinc oxide (ZnO) nanoparticles made from T. chebula fruit are created through a downstream process. The deterioration of the dye compounds was caused by green ZnO, which increased the surface area on the electron hole. The green synthesised ZnO NPs in vitro antioxidant capabilities demonstrated a substantial inhibitory activity of the tested agents against free radicals. According to our findings, ZnO nanoparticles produced by T. chebula fruits exhibited enhanced scavenging and reducing activities against reactive oxygen radicals as well as efficient photodegradation of methylene blue dye.','T. chebula, ZnO, Photocatalytic Degradation, Antioxidant','Nowadays, Green synthesis of metallic nanoparticles considered as the high efficient, cost effective and eco-friendly products and also a sustainable product for chemical based nanoparticles. Terminalia chebula mediated titanium dioxide (GZnO) nanoparticles DPPH and FRAP antioxidant studies revealed the enhanced oxygen radical scavenging activities. GZnO nanoparticles exhibited the dye degradation (photocatalytic) activities against methylene blue dye.','-','Rathika R., Mahmoodah Parveen K., Suganthi P., Kannadasan N. and Srinivasan K. (2023). Photocatalytic and in vitro Antioxidant Activity of Terminalia chebula Fruits Mediated ZnO Nanoparticles. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 15(3): 199-202.'),(6307,'150','Assessment of Avian Biodiversity in Peruvannamuzhi Forest, Kozhikode (Kerala)','Subair M.P., Mohamed Shamsudin and Joseph Antony Jerald I.','Assessment-of-Avian-Biodiversity-in-Peruvannamuzhi-Forest,-Kozhikode-(Kerala)-Mohamed-Shamsudin-31.pdf','',1,'Anthropogenic activities in the forest landscapes influences the floral and faunal communities which resulted the affected ecosystem biodiversity. In Kozhikode district, the moist deciduous region Peruvannamuzhi forest is a part of Malabar wildlife sanctuary. Based on point count sampling (PCS) method, during spring migratory bird season the survey was conducted at 20 different sampling stations between 2017 to 2019 (March and April). Forty different avian species were observed during the study period which belongs to Passeriformes, Columbiformes, Coraciiformes, Pelecaniformes, Piciformes, Galliformes, Apodiformes, Bucerotiformes, Psittaciformes, Trogoniformes and Accipitriformes families.Among the 40 bird species, 30 species belong to least concern (LC) status and one species Ocyceros griseus belongs to vulnerable IUCN status. In future, the species richness and diversity index is to be studied.','Peruvannamuzhi forest, Avian biodiversity, IUCN, point count sampling method','Our study tabulated the types of birds observed in the moist deciduous forest, Peruvannamuzhi during 2017-2019. Based on the sampling, the local diversification of avian species and its conservation status were also identified. This kind of studies in novel regions helps to develop sustainable conservation strategies and ecological balance.','-','Subair M.P., Mohamed Shamsudin and Joseph Antony Jerald, I. (2023). Assessment of Avian Biodiversity in Peruvannamuzhi Forest, Kozhikode (Kerala). Biological Forum – An International Journal, 15(3): 203-206.'),(6308,'150','Expression of MicroRNA-21 in Plasma of Squamous Cell Carcinoma of Oral Cavity','Santhosh Kumar Caliaperoumal, Saranyan Ravi, Balakrishnan Jeyakumar, Santhadevi A. and Neelamegam U.','Expression-of-MicroRNA-21-in-Plasma-of-Squamous-Cell-Carcinoma-of-Oral-Cavity-Santhosh-Kumar-Caliaperoumal-32.pdf','',1,'The study aim was to evaluate the expression of miRNA 21 and to compare miRNA-21 in plasma of patients with squamous cell carcinoma of oral cavity. The squamous cell carcinoma of oral cavity is commonest malignancy in world and commonest in India with considerable mortality and morbidity. It poses a major challenge to health of individual and society. The diagnosis at early stage helps to reduce mortality and morbidity and has a better prognosis. Multiple molecular and biochemical markers are studied for diagnosis, prognosis and recurrence prediction. One of the recently studied marker is miRNAs. The microRNAs (miRNAs) are small, tiny, non-coding RNAs that are observed to be up or down-regulated in patients with Oral cancer and play a role in all levels of carcinogenesis. One of the common miRNA is miRNA-21 and is upregulated in oral carcinomas. A case control study with 30 patients of SCCO and 30 controls of healthy subjects was done. The miRNA-21 levels were evaluated in blood plasma of cases and controls. The miRNA-21 fold change was observed and compared with SCCO and controls. The plasma miRNA-21 level was significantly increased between SCCO cases and controls. Further, the patients with moderately differentiated and Stage-4 SCCO showed increase in fold change of miRNA-21 significantly compared to well-differentiated and Stage-3 SCCO patients. We concluded from the study that the plasma miR-21 levels clearly differentiate between the normal healthy individual and SCCO cases. Further it also differentiates the Squamous cell carcinoma- well differentiated and Squamous cell carcinoma- moderately differentiated. It also differentiates stage-3 and stage-4 SCCO. So miRNA-21 may be of help as added prognostic and diagnostic marker for SCCO.','Squamous Cell Carcinoma of Oral cavity (SCCO), Plasma, microRNA-21(miRNA-21/miR-21), microRNA','The Present study and earlier reports suggest that there is a close association of miRNA-21 with that of progress of SCCO as with increasing histopathological grades and clinical stages of tumour carcinogenesis. The over expression of miRNA may be utilized as a marker for early detection of SCCO as well as recurrence screening. The present study result concludes that plasma miR-21 levels clearly differentiate between the normal healthy individual and SCCO cases. Further it also differentiates the well differentiated and moderately differentiated Squamous cell carcinoma. It also differentiates stage-3 and stage-4 SCCO. So miRNA-21 may be used as adjuvant screening diagnostic marker and prognostic marker in SCCO.','-','Santhosh Kumar Caliaperoumal, Saranyan Ravi, Balakrishnan Jeyakumar, Santhadevi A. and Neelamegam U. (2023). Expression of MicroRNA-21 in Plasma of Squamous Cell Carcinoma of Oral Cavity. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 15(3): 207-211.'),(6309,'150','Impact of Metabolite Elicitors on Growth and Yield Characteristics in Turmeric (Curcuma longa L.) at High Altitude Zone of Andhra Pradesh','D. Manjusha, S. Suryakumari, K. Giridhar, A.V.D. Dorajeerao, D.R. Salomi Suneetha, P. Subbaramamma and V. Sivakumar ','Impact-of-Metabolite-Elicitors-on-Growth-and-Yield-Characteristics-in-Turmeric-(Curcuma-longa-L.)-at-High-Altitude-Zone-of-Andhra-Pradesh-D-Manjusha-33.pdf','',1,'The present investigation entitled “Impact of metabolite elicitors on growth and yield characteristics in turmeric (Curcuma longa L.) at high altitude zone of Andhra Pradesh” is carried out at HRS, Chintapalli, Dr. Y.S.R. Horticultural University, during Kharif 2017 and 2018. The metabolite elicitors chitosan and salicylic acid were administered to two varieties, Mydukur and Roma, in the form of seed treatment and foliar spray. At 180 days after transplanting (DAT), growth characteristics were noted. At harvest, yield was noted at 250 DAT for the variety Roma and 270 DAT for the variety Mydukur. Pooled data over two years (2017-18 & 2018-19) on growth parameters and yield revealed significant effect on plant height (103.21 cm), number of leaves plant-1 (11.49), leaf length (44.48 cm), leaf width (11.56 cm), number of tillers plant-1 (1.68), fresh weight plant-1 (439.52 g) and yield plot-1 (8.38 kg) were recorded in the variety Roma. Significantly superior plant height (96.32 cm), number of leaves plant-1 (12.15), leaf length (44.97 cm), leaf width (12.09 cm), number of tillers plant-1 (1.75), fresh weight plant-1 (419.98 g) and yield plot-1 (7.67 kg) were recorded in the foliar application of chitosan @ 100 ppm as the effect of metabolite elicitors through foliar application is observed superior to seed treatment. The combinations of variety Roma + chitosan @ 100 ppm (S), Roma + chitosan @ 100 ppm (F) and chitosan @ 100 ppm (S) + chitosan @ 100 ppm (F) recorded significantly highest growth and yield characteristics. The three-way interaction Roma + chitosan @ 100 ppm (S) + chitosan @ 100 ppm (F)recorded superior plant height (113.80 cm), number of leaves plant-1 (13.74), leaf length (50.76 cm), leaf width (13.34 cm), number of tillers plant-1 (2.24), fresh weight plant-1 (527.74 g) and yield plot-1 (10.87 kg) and lowest was recorded with Mydukur + no seed treatment + water spray.','Turmeric, Elicitors, Growth, Yield, Chitosan, Salicylic Acid, Mydukur, Roma, High altitude zone of Andhra Pradesh','The response of Roma to metabolite elicitors was proved to be high when compared to Mydukur at high-altitude zones of Andhra Pradesh. This study highlights the significance of chitosan in exhibiting its role on growth and yield characteristics in turmeric at high-altitude zone of Andhra Pradesh. Salicylic acid followed chitosan in registering relatively more growth and yield. Foliar application of elicitors has more impact on the crop grown than seed treatment.','-','D. Manjusha, S. Suryakumari, K. Giridhar, A.V.D. Dorajeerao, D.R. Salomi Suneetha, P. Subbaramamma and V. Sivakumar (2023). Impact of Metabolite Elicitors on Growth and Yield Characteristics in Turmeric (Curcuma longa L.) at High Altitude Zone of Andhra Pradesh. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 15(3): 212-220.'),(6310,'150','Investigation on the Response of Ornamental Fish Etroplus maculatus to Anaesthetization for Live Fish Transport','Dalie Dominic A., N.D. Inasu and Swapana Johny','Investigation-on-the-Response-of-Ornamental-Fish-Etroplus-maculatus-to-Anaesthetization-for-Live-Fish-Transport-Dalie-Dominic-A-34.pdf','',1,'In the worldwide fish trade, fish are stressed during capture, handling, packaging and shipping. This state of disturbance of homeostasis arouses the stress response. Accordingly, variations occur in various blood constituents. In the present study, Handling and packing stress was evaluated for Etroplus maculatus. Anaesthetic efficiency of 2-Phenoxyethanol, Clove oil and Lemon grass oil were analysed.\r\nIt was observed that all stress indicators evaluated indicated an alteration in all experiments during the 48-hour study period. The plasma cortisol value increased during the first six hours of transportation but it decreased after unpacking after 48 hours of transportation. The plasma glucose also followed the trend of cortisol. In the case of Hemoglobin and Erythrocytes the values remained high even after 48 hours after unpacking. However, stress was identified to be adaptive in the fish as the cortisol and glucose returned to basal values after 48 hours of the experiment.\r\n','Live Food fish, Ornamental fish, Anaesthetization, Natural oil, Fish transport','Biochemical changes are ideal indicators of stress that can correlate to status and future condition of fish. In the present study it was observed that 2-phenoxyethanol and clove oil were effective in producing anaesthesia in Etroplus maculatus. The present work discovers the anaesthetic property of lemongrass oil as an effective anaesthetic with the property of induction and recovery.\r\nHowever, such studies on different fish species are essential. Further studies on gender, reproductive state and life history stages are to be done. Therefore, according to the present investigation the three anaesthetic agents were effective and exhibited a good margin of safety with respect to Etroplus maculatus, an ornamental and food fish with immense trade potential.\r\n','-','Dalie Dominic A, N.D. Inasu and Swapana Johny (2022). Investigation on the response of Ornamental fish Etroplus maculatus to anaesthetization for live fish Transport. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 15(3): 221-226.'),(6311,'150','Principal Component Analysis for Yield and Yield Related Traits in Sesame (Sesamum indicum L.)','Mukhthambica K., Bisen R. and Ramya K.T.','Principal-Component-Analysis-for-Yield-and-Yield-Related-Traits-in-Sesame-(Sesamum-indicum-L.)-Mukhthambica-K-35.pdf','',1,'Sesame in India have been reported to have a wide variability for the characters but still no systemic efforts have been made to characterize and identify the genotypes having variable characters for the selection. The research was conducted using seventy genotypes of sesame based on yield and its contributing traits and also using Principal Component Analysis. The observations were recorded by selecting five random plants for fourteen quantitative characters. On the basis of Principal component analysis, out of fourteen components, only 4 principal components (PCs) exhibited more than 1.00 Eigen value and showed about 68.6 % variability among the traits studied. The PC1 had the highest variability (38.3%) followed by PC2 (12.2%), PC3 (10.2%) and PC4 (7.9%) for traits under study. Rotated component matrix revealed that the first principal component (PC1) was mostly related with traits such as days to 50% flowering, days to maturity, length to first capsule, plant height, secondary branches per plant and seed yield per plant. The second principal component (PC2) was related to the traits viz., capsule number per plant, number of leaf axils in main stem, capsule length, test weight and oil content while PC3 was consisting of traits viz., days to emergence, days to flower session. Fourth principal component was related to primary branches per plant. The genotypes like, Paiyur, VRI-3, TMV-6, TMV-3, DS-5, PKDS-8, Rajeshwari and JLT-408 were identified as putative genotypes and length to first capsule, plant height, primary branches per plant, secondary branches per plant, seed yield per plant are identified as main yield trait attributes. Thus, it can be utilized to select the more diverse germplasms for these traits and could be used as parents in heterosis breeding programmes.','Sesame, Principal Component Analysis, variability, eigen values','PCA is an important technique for enhancing the breeding programme as it extracts all the key components and highlights their contribution to total variability. PCA biplot revealed the high performing genotypes viz., Paiyur, VRI-3, TMV-6, TMV-3, DS-5, PKDS-8, Rajeshwari and JLT-408 can be effectively utilized for crop improvement programmes.','-','Mukhthambica K., Bisen R. and Ramya K.T. (2023). Principal Component Analysis for Yield and Yield Related Traits in Sesame (Sesamum indicum L.). Biological Forum – An International Journal, 15(3): 227-232.'),(6312,'150','Cyto-genotoxicity of Parthenium hysterophorus Plant Extract on Allium cepa Plant Assay','Akanksha Singh, Shalani Gupta, Rakesh Singh Sengar and Sachin Chauhan','Cyto-genotoxicity-of-Parthenium-hysterophorus-Plant-Extract-on-Allium-cepa-Plant-Assay-Akanksha-Singh-36.pdf','',1,'Parthenium hysterophorous also known as congress grass a well-known weed in farmer’s field which caused harm to crops as well as health of farmers. Therefore, current research paper deals with the assessment of Parthenium hysterophorus plant extract on Allium cepa plant assay for their evaluation of cyto-genotoxicity potential. The effect of Parthenium plant extract was studied on meristematic root tips of A. cepa to determine the cytotoxicity in onion root tips. Root tips of onion were treated with a series of concentrations viz. 2.5 %, 5.0 % and 7.5 % for 24 and 48 hours. Acetocarmine staining was done to visualize the mitotic stages. Extract effect on the relative durations and concentrations of each mitotic stage as compared with control treatments. Mitotic index was decreased significantly with increasing concentration of Parthenium extract but as the duration of exposure of extract was increased the MI% decreased in comparison to control. The RDR (Relative Division Rate) considerably became more negative and RAR (Relative Abnormality Rate) was increased along with increasing doses of Parthenium extract. But RDR was more negative with 24 hours of treatment where RAR increased with prolonged treatment. Increment in the negative value of RDR was directly proportional to the severity of the mitotic inhibition. Several chromosomal aberrations were recorded i.e., early prophase, sticky metaphase, C metaphase, disturbed metaphase and anaphase, forward metaphase anaphase and telophase chromosomes, laggards in anaphase and telophase, bridges at anaphase and telophase, micronucleus at inter-phase. Thus, it was concluded that with the increasing concentration of Parthenium plant extract in both the durations the total percent of abnormal cells was increased followed by decrease in Mitotic index which shows that Parthenium plant extract have potential to cause cytotoxicity as well as genotoxicity in A. cepa and a threat to other agronomic crops.','Parthenium hysterophorus, Allium cepa, cyto-genotoxicity, chromosomal aberrations, inter-phase, laggards, bridges','The result of the cytological study suggests that Parthenium plant is capable of producing numerous structural and functional alterations in mitotic cells and hence, confirm the cytotoxicity and genotoxicity of Parthenium extract. And also suggests that recovery of the cells to the normal state is not possible ever after 48-hour treatment. The present results thus, indicate that prolonged exposure to Parthenium plants particularly with its leaves and inflorescence leads to cyto-statics. It could be concluded that Parthenium plants are capable of inducing various chromosomal aberrations, inhibition of mitosis which ultimately affects the genetic architecture as well as physiological set up of a cell and consequently leads to the death of the plant.','-','Akanksha Singh, Shalani Gupta, Rakesh Singh Sengar and Sachin Chauhan (2023). Cyto-genotoxicity of Parthenium hysterophorus Plant Extract on Allium cepa Plant Assay. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 15(3): 233-241.'),(6313,'150','Studies on Microbiological Quality of Khoa Sold in Maharashtra','Ranjan B. Yedatkar, Vasant V. Niras, Anand R. Sarode, Shital S. Deosarkar, Shrikant D. Kalyankar and Chandrapakash D. Khedkar ','Studies-on-Microbiological-Quality-of-Khoa-Sold-in-Maharashtra-Ranjan-B-Yedatkar-37.pdf','',1,'Milk and milk products are the sources of first class proteins for all the age groups. Khoa is one of the most important traditional Indian dairy products. Owing to its high nutrient and favourable moisture content, khoa can serve as a favourable medium for the growth of a variety of putrefactive microorganisms. The market khoa usually keeps well for about 48 h under usual Indian conditions. But beyond which it deteriorates due to microbial action. These organisms gain access as contaminants from different sources in to the product. The present study was conducted to ascertain the microbial quality of khoa sold in twenty two districts in four zones of Maharashtra during 2021-22. The object is to highlight the main microbial food safety hazards in the dairy chain and to propose appropriate preventive and control measures. Fifteen khoa samples were randomly procured during the three seasons from each of the four zones of the State during 2020-21 from various vendors. The data on microbiological quality was categorized season-wise. The counts of aerobic, coliforms, Staphylococci, yeast and moulds, Escherichia coli, Salmonella and Listeria monocytogenes were estimated. It was observed that the highest counts of the test organisms were observed in all the four zones in the samples collected during February to May and the lowest counts were recorded during October to January. It was observed that the highest average aerobic counts were recorded in Western Maharashtra (49.11×105 cfu/g) during Feb-May 2022; the highest average coliform counts of 61.18 cfu/g were observed in Western Maharashtra; the highest Staphylococci counts of 21.33 cfu/g, yeast and mould counts of 29.69 cfu/g were reported in Vidarbha. It was observed that the pathogenic organisms, viz. Salmonella sp. and Listeria monocytogenes was not observed in any of the samples during the study period. The results on the microbiological quality of khoa sold in Maharashtra reveals that the microbiological quality of the product is well within the standards specified by the FSSR (2020). ','Khoa, pathogens, safety, microbiology, Maharashtra','On the basis of the data generated during this investigation it can be concluded that the microbial counts of the target eight groups of organisms reported in the khoa samples procured randomly from twenty two districts under four zones of Maharashtra during three seasons are well within the prescribed limits by the Regulatory Authorities. Our scientific findings in this investigation can be attributed to the long term planning and tireless efforts in effective implementing the awareness campaigns about the importance of hygienic practices through academia and industrial and government authorities resulted into significant improvement in the quality of khoa sold in the State of Maharashtra. ','-','Ranjan B. Yedatkar, Vasant V. Niras, Anand R. Sarode, Shital S. Deosarkar, Shrikant D. Kalyankar and Chandrapakash D. Khedkar (2023). Studies on Microbiological Quality of Khoa Sold in Maharashtra. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 15(3): 242-246.'),(6314,'150','Evaluation of different Plant Leaves Extract as Seed Treatment against Reniform Nematode (Rotylenchulus reniformis) on Cowpea (Vigna unguiculata L.)','Rameshwar Lal, H.K. Sharma, M.K. Sharma, Vikas Kumar Aloria, Vishnu Dadhich and Mukesh Jaiman','Evaluation-of-different-Plant-Leaves-Extract-as-Seed-Treatment-against-Reniform-Nematode-(Rotylenchulus-reniformis)-on-Cowpea-(Vigna-unguiculata-L.)-Rameshwar-Lal-38.pdf','',1,'Cowpea is an important crop of Indian subcontinent and its losses by the reniform nematode (Rotylenchulus reniformis) cause’s significant harm to the farmers. To find out a herbal management practice a pot experiment was carried out under protected condition consisting of completely randomized design with six seed treatments using plant leaves extract viz., Tulsi (Ocimum tenuiflorum), Pyrethrum (Chrysanthemum cinerarieaefolium), Datura (Datura stramonium), Ashwagandha (Withania sominifera), Congress grass (Parthenium hysterophorus) @ 10 per cent concentration, and untreated control laid out in four replications.The soil was inoculated with 2J/g soil with reniform nematode. Datura (10%) was found best treatment followed by Pyrethrum (10%) and Congress grass (10%) in improving plant growth of cowpea and reducing reproduction of reniform nematode. According to the findings, Datura (Datura stramonium) significantly increased cowpea plant growth characteristics viz., shoot length by 42.8%and no. of nodules/plant by 51.50%. Datura application also, reduced number of female count at the time of harvest by 51.76% and final nematode population (200cc¬-1 soil) by 56.36% as compared to the control pots. It can thus be inferred that the use of Datura leaves extract can be a potential treatment in the management of reniform nematode, Rotylenchulus reniformis.','Plant leaves extract, Seed treatment, Reniform nematode, Organic farming, Allelopathy','Results of seed treatment trial with plant leaves extract of Datura (Datura stramonium) @ 10 per cent concentration were highly promising, followed by Pyrethrum (Chrysanthemum cinerarieaefolium) @ 10 per cent concentration, and Congress grass (Parthenium hysterophorus) @ 10 per cent concentration for improvement in the plant growth of cowpea and reducing infection and reproduction of reniform nematode. It can be concluded that the application of Datura leaves in the management of this nematode is highly effective, the application rate and availability of Datura in semi-arid areas of Rajasthan makes this an economic as well as employable management practice.','-','Rameshwar Lal, H.K. Sharma, M.K. Sharma, Vikas Kumar Aloria, Vishnu Dadhich and Mukesh Jaiman (2023). Evaluation of different Plant Leaves Extract as Seed Treatment against Reniform Nematode (Rotylenchulus reniformis) on Cowpea (Vigna unguiculata L.). Biological Forum – An International Journal, 15(3): 247-250.'),(6315,'150','A Review Paper on the Water Quality Status of the Bordoibam Wetland with Special Reference to its Avifaunal Diversity','Rafia Farooquee, Kangkana Lekharu and Epsita Roy','A-Review-Paper-on-the-Water-Quality-Status-of-the-Bordoibam-Wetland-with-Special-Reference-to-its-Avifaunal-Diversity-Kangkana-Lekharu-39.pdf','',1,'Wetlands are one of the most diverse, productive and a unique ecosystem present on this earth. Wetlands are the transitional area between the terrestrial and aquatic habitats. Bordoibam Bilmukh Bird Sanctuary is a large freshwater wetland that serves as a breeding ground for many important migratory bird species. The present study is a review study which mainly focuses on analytical review on the physico-chemical properties of water of the Bordoibam wetland with special reference to its avifaunal diversity. The various physico-chemical properties of water including water temperature, pH, conductivity, dissolved oxygen (DO), and total dissolved solids (TDS) were analysed and found in a range of pollution indicator index. These databases will also help in future researches to assess the quality of water of the wetland. The study also focused on the variety of bird species found in the wetland along with their local name, English name, scientific name, IUCN status and their feeding habit. At present Bordoibam wetland is a hot area for future research. During the study we have faced problems in collecting data, as there were very less number of papers written and available on the Bordoibam wetland.','Bordoibam wetland, Sanctuary, physico-chemical, breeding ground, avifaunal diversity, future research','In the context of ecosystem management and observation, the Bordoibam Bilmukh Bird Sanctuary is playing an influential tole. It is very much necessary to take greater steps to conserve the wetland as it is the breeding ground of many migratory bird species. Moreover, the water quality is impactful for ecosystem productivity and aquatic biodiversity. It is in focus that the physicochemical parameters of the water of Bordoibam wetland is in the range in pollution indicator index. Though it is still in check for pollution so, from this point of view necessary and immediate measures should be taken before reaching pollution zone. At present the Bordoibam wetland is a hot topic for future research.','-','Rafia Farooquee, Kangkana Lekharu and Epsita Roy (2023). A Review Paper on the Water Quality Status of the Bordoibam Wetland with Special Reference to its Avifaunal Diversity. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 15(3): 251-261.'),(6316,'150','Post-Monsoon Ichthyofaunal Diversity of the Upper Stretch of Narmada River, Madhya Pradesh','Rekha Rani and Atul Kumar Pandey','Post-Monsoon-Ichthyofaunal-Diversity-of-the-Upper-Stretch-of-Narmada-River,-Madhya-Pradesh-Rekha-Rani-40.pdf','',1,'The Narmada River is a holy river that is home to a variety of micro- and macroorganisms, including Ichyofauna. It is regarded as the fifth largest river in India and is a west-flowing river. It is also known as the lifeline of M.P., covering approximately 88% of M.P. alone. For the Ichyofaunal diversity in the upper stretch of the Narmada, a total of eight sites have been covered from its origin, and fifty Itchyo species have been observed from various sections of the Narmada River, belonging to 33 genera, 16 families, and six orders. The physicochemical properties of the Narmada River have been reported to fluctuate with the standard value and limitations as proposed by WHO and BIS (Bureo of Indian Standard). The order Cypriniformes (major and minor carps) dominated the major group of fishes, followed by Siluniformes and Atheriniformes. The order clupeiformes has a lower abundance of Ichyofauna. The main challenge of the study was the collection and identification it was rectified with the help of a faunal expert present in the Zoological Survey of India. This is the study made an around the Amarkantak area, this study will enhance the diversity of the city.','Narmada, Ichthyofaunal diversity, Post Monsoon, Physico-chemical properties','The findings in the upper stretch of the Narmada reveal the maximum abundance of major and minor carps belonging to the order cyprinoformes and less abundance of fishes belonging to the order clupiformes and family Notopteridae, which contain featherback. The main objective of this research is to enrich the faunal diversity of Amarkantak. Overall, 50 species under the 33 genera belonging to 16 families were added to this study. Earlier this type of research was carried out by Johnson et al. (2012) in Ken River.','-','Rekha Rani and Atul Kumar Pandey (2023). Post-Monsoon Ichthyofaunal Diversity of the Upper Stretch of Narmada River, Madhya Pradesh. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 15(3): 262-267.'),(6317,'136','Study of Fungal Glycoproteins Contributing to Soil Carbon Pool in Conservation and Organic Agriculture','Manoj M., B.S. Dhakad, Geeta Singh and Jayasurya Anegundi','Study of Fungal Glycoproteins Contributing to Soil Carbon Pool in Conservation and Organic Agriculture-Manoj M-290.pdf','',1,'The assessment of the impact of agri-management on the microbial activities related to C sequestration was undertaken using two contrasting long term (2003-2020) agricultural managements in the rice-wheat rotation. The aim was to assess the role of microbial glycoproteins for carbon sequestration in agricultural soil, Soil microorganisms are key agents determining the fate of soil C and aid in its sequestration. This study evaluated the impact of agricultural management on microbial activities related to carbon sequestration in the rice-wheat rotation. The organic management approach involved a combination of farmyard manure, vermicompost, and biofertilizers, which resulted in significantly higher melanin and chitin content in the top 30 cm of soil. The results suggest that this approach has the potential to increase the soil labile carbon fraction. Additionally, the long-term conservation agriculture experiments showed that zero-tilled soils had higher fungal metabolites and precursors of recalcitrant carbon, indicating the potential for carbon sequestration. However, the effectiveness of using fungal glycoproteins for carbon sequestration in agricultural soils poses several challenges. One of the main challenges is the efficiency of the process, as sequestering carbon using fungal glycoproteins can be slow and require a significant amount of time. Another challenge is the varying effectiveness depending on soil type and environmental conditions. The cost of producing and applying glycoproteins is also a significant factor to consider. Further research is needed to fully understand the potential of microbial glycoproteins for carbon sequestration and to develop more efficient and cost-effective methods for their use in agricultural soils. Overall, the findings suggest that agricultural management practices can significantly impact soil microbial activities and carbon sequestration potential, and highlight the importance of sustainable management practices in mitigating climate change.','Conservation agriculture, Soil carbon sequestration, Soil microbial indices, Microbial metabolites, Precursors of recalcitrant C','Relation between fungal C mineralization and specific concentration of fungal metabolites (Glycoproteins, Chitins) in the soil C sequestration process, soil carbon stocks of agricultural land are experiencing a continuance declining trend. In order to meet the eve growing demand for food and simultaneously reduce carbon losses / increase soil carbon storage alternative agricultural methods are being adopted. In this direction, the organic agriculture and the conservation agriculture practices are reported to improve natural resource use efficiency and gaining popularity globally. The key practices of organic agriculture, are focussed on closed nutrient cycles by recycling plant residues and manures from livestock back to soil thereby significantly reducing the soil carbon losses or even to higher soil carbon concentrations and net carbon sequestration over time. Another approach, the conservation agriculture also relies on the input of crop residues as surface mulch, rotation of crops and minimum or no disturbance of soil by avoiding tillage, agricultural management play a critical role in plant -microbe interaction. ','-','Manoj M., B.S. Dhakad, Geeta Singh and Jayasurya Anegundi (2022). Study of Fungal Glycoproteins Contributing to Soil Carbon Pool in Conservation and Organic Agriculture. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 14(3): 1694-1701.'),(6318,'150','Effect of Starter Solution, Micronutrient Mixture and Humic Acid on Growth, Flowering and Yield of African Marigold (Tagetes erecta L.)','Anjali, Ashok H., Pampanna, Y., Jyothi, R. and Suma, T.C.','Effect-of-Starter-Solution,-Micronutrient-Mixture-and-Humic-Acid-on-Growth,-Flowering-and-Yield-of-African-Marigold-(Tagetes-erecta-L.)-Anjali-41.pdf','',1,'The present investigation was conducted at the Herbal Garden, College of Agriculture, Raichur was initiated during late rabi 2021-22. The experiment was carried out with eight treatments comprising of starter solution, micronutrient mixture and humic acid was laid in Randomized Block Design and replicated thrice. The absorption of nutrients by roots from soil is adversely affected after transplanting thereby causing reduced growth and mortality of seedlings which are the main handicaps in successful floriculture. Commercial exploitation of the flowers for xanthophylls extraction has made this flower crop much more popular among the flower growers and industries. An optimum and balanced level of liquid nutrients and biostimulant are necessary for optimum growth and higher production of quality flowers. The results of the study indicated that application of starter solution at 0.5% and foliar spray of micronutrient mixture at 0.25% and humic acid at 0.2% (T8) recorded taller plants, number of branches per plant, number of leaves per plant and larger leaf area. Minimum number of days for flower initiation, 50 per cent flowering, number of flowers per plant, test weight (10 flowers), duration of flowering and flower yield per hectare. Results confirmed that improved growth and flowering of African marigold cv. Pusa Narangi Gainda.','Foliar spray, starter solution, flower yield, micronutrients','It is concluded that the treatment combination of starter solution at 0.5%, foliar spray of micronutrient mixture at 0.25% and humic acid at 0.2% has resulted in better vegetative parameters like plant height, number of branches, number of leaves and leaf area per plant. Also, early flower initiation, 50 percent flowering, number of flowers per plant, test weight (10 flowers), duration of flowering and flower yield per hectare was noticed in the same treatment.','-','Anjali, Ashok H., Pampanna, Y., Jyothi, R. and Suma, T.C. (2023). Effect of Starter Solution, Micronutrient Mixture and Humic Acid on Growth, Flowering and Yield of African Marigold (Tagetes erecta L.). Biological Forum – An International Journal, 15(3): 268-272.'),(6319,'150','Evaluation of Antifungal Activities of different Clove Extracts against Sclerotium rolfsii Sacc. causing Stem Rot of Indian Bean','Ranapratap Raut, Lalit Mahatma, Ravikumar Vaniya and Nikunj Khunt','Evaluation-of-Antifungal-Activities-of-Different-Clove-Extracts-against------Sclerotium-rolfsii-Sacc.-causing-Stem-Rot-of-Indian-Bean-Ranapratap-Raut-42.pdf','',1,'The study evaluated the antifungal activities of different clove extracts against Sclerotium rolfsii, the causative agent of stem rot of Indian bean. The extraction of bioactive compounds from clove poses a significant challenge. To overcome this challenge, various organic solvents were employed during the extraction process. To prepare the extracts, clove powder was soaked in different solvents including acetone, propanol, mustard oil, castor oil, and water for a period of 48 hours. The in vitro evaluation was done using the Poisoned Food Technique, where a 1.0 per cent concentration of each extract was used. The results showed that propanol and acetone clove extracts showed cent per cent inhibition of S. rolfsii compared to the untreated control. Propanol alone showed 14.67 mm of mycelium growth and 83.70 per cent inhibition. This study highlights the potential of clove extracts as an alternative to chemical fungicides in managing stem rot caused by S. rolfsii in Indian bean.','Solvents, Clove extract, Sclerotium rolfsii, in vitro','Organic solvents such as propanol and acetone are more effective in extracting the antifungal components present in clove compared to water and oil. Among the different solvent based clove extracts, Propanol clove extract and Acetone clove extract showed complete inhibition of S. rolfsii at 1.0 per cent concentration.','-','Ranapratap Raut, Lalit Mahatma, Ravikumar Vaniya and Nikunj Khunt (2023). Evaluation of Antifungal Activities of Different Clove Extracts against Sclerotium rolfsii Sacc. causing Stem Rot of Indian Bean. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 15(3): 273-276.'),(6320,'147','Critical Evaluation of Methodological Aspects in Developing the Programmed Instruction Material on Agricultural Technologies','Manjula N., Shivashankar M. and Bharath Kumar T.P.','Critical-Evaluation-of-Methodological-Aspects-in-Developing-the-Programmed-Instruction-Material-on-Agricultural-Technologies-Manjula-N-115.pdf','',1,'Extension education is a continuous educational process to provide knowledge to the rural people about the improved practices in a convincing manner. The research in extension education should aim at identifying appropriate methods, tools and techniques for the field extension functionaries who in turn could utilize it for accelerating the change process in the society. The Programmed Instruction (PI) is a self-instructional material, in which learners work through the programmed material by themselves at their own speed and after each step, test their comprehension by answering a question as well, they can find the correct answer immediately. The PI has proved superior method over conventional methods in educating learners of varying groups such as age, sex, education, physical and mental capabilities, positions in the job, different subjects like science, mathematics, engineering, medicine, nursing, counseling. Its utility is unexplored in educating agricultural subject for farmers and extension functionaries. Hence, an attempt was made to develop the PI on agricultural technology, ‘climate change, its impact, mitigation and adaptation strategies in agriculture’. On experimentation, the results indicated that, PI is a better method over Lecture method in educating agriculture subject through its influence on cognitive and affective domains of extension functionaries. ','Programmed Instruction, frames, cognitive domain, affective domain, reinforcement, learning, effectiveness','PI has the multitude of positive effects. The reinforcement of learning occurs twice in the process of learning in PI through answering the questions and by the correct answer provided for cross checking. By using PI the individuals can learn the subject matter in their own place and the speed of learning depending on their ability. Therefore, the uniform learning occurs among individuals having varying abilities. PI can indeed be very beneficial to education for both learners and teachers. Therefore, it can be developed and used as an effective tool teaching all categories of learners and for several circumstances. The findings of the study will be helpful to the Developmental Departments, State Agricultural Universities, Krishi Vigyan Kendras, Commodity Boards and NGOs, to educate the staff working in their organisations and their clients by transforming technical literature/implementation procedures etc., into the form of PI material. Due to limitation of time and resources, PI material has been developed on one agricultural technology on climate change, its impact, mitigation and adaptation strategies in agriculture. Hence, the results cannot be generalized in the same way for the other subjects. The investigation has been conducted on the extension functionaries and therefore, the results cannot be generalized for the other users of PI.','-','Manjula N., Shivashankar M. and Bharath Kumar T.P. (2022). Critical Evaluation of Methodological Aspects in Developing the Programmed Instruction Material on Agricultural Technologies. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 14(4a): 667-671.'),(6321,'147','Relationship of Profile characteristics of Extension Personnel with Effectiveness of Programmed Instruction','Manjula N., Chandregowda M.J., Shivashankar M. and Srinivasa Reddy M.V.','Relationship-of-Profile-characteristics-of-Extension-Personnel-with-Effectiveness-of-Programmed-Instruction-Manjula-N-116.pdf','',1,'Agricultural Extension is a system of an informal education which aims at improving agriculture by educating the farmers. Hence, the extension functionaries should be educated on the new innovations in agriculture from time to time so that, they inturn educate the farmers in a better way. While searching for the new educational technology, Programmed Instruction (PI) was found to be an effective method, which was proved in many fields and with various categories of subjects. Hence, an experimental study was conducted to analyze the effectiveness of PI in bringing desirable changes in the cognitive and affective domains of extension functionaries on the subject, ‘Climate change, its impact, mitigation and adaptation strategies in agriculture’, an experimental study was conducted using Solomon four group design: before-after with three controls considering 240 respondents. Correlation coefficients were worked out between effectiveness scores of PI and the personal and situational, communication and extension education variables of extension functionaries. The results revealed that Educational level (0.419), job involvement (0.375), organisational commitment (0.437), leadership abilities (0.380) and participation in capacity building activities (0.391) were positively related to the effectiveness of PI at one percent level. Whereas, the job satisfaction (0.463), achievement motivation (0.726), contacts with research system (0.725), climate change orientation (0.571), exposure to print media (0.663), exposure to electronic media (0.534), agricultural articles reading habit (0.454) and time spent in field extension work (0.681) were positively and significantly related with the effectiveness of the PI of extension functionaries at five percent level. Further, no significant relationship was observed among the variables such as Rural - urban – background (0.261), Experience (0.131), job autonomy (0.070), Job stress (0.105), Organisational stress (0.153), Organisational climate (0.135).','Programmed instruction, profile characteristics, extension personnel, effectiveness, relationship','The findings of the study clearly revealed that, Educational level, job involvement, job satisfaction, organisational commitment, achievement motivation, leadership abilities, contacts with research system, climate change orientation, exposure to print media, exposure to electronic media, agricultural articles reading habit, participation in capacity building activities and time spent in field extension work were positively and significantly related with the effectiveness of the PI of extension functionaries. Hence, PI may be considered as an effective method to teach the extension functionaries on agricultural subjects from time to time. The PI instructional approach can be used to educate the para extension workers like facilitators in Bhoochethana programme, Assistant Technology Managers, Block Technology Managers, Subject Matter Specialists of ATMA, contact farmers in KVKs etc. ','-','Manjula N., Chandregowda M.J., Shivashankar M. and Srinivasa Reddy M.V. (2022). Relationship of Profile characteristics of Extension Personnel with Effectiveness of Programmed Instruction. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 14(4a): 672-680.'),(6322,'150','Effect of Biofertilizers and Foliar application of Boron on Growth and Yield of Greengram (Phaseolus radiatus L.)','Abhishali, Victor Debbarma and Abhishek Chauhan','Effect-of-Biofertilizers-and-Foliar-application-of-Boron-on-Growth-and-Yield-of-Greengram-(Phaseolus-radiatus-L.)-Abhishali-43.pdf','',1,'The field experiment was conducted at Crop Research Farm during Zaid season 2022, Department of Agronomy, Sam Higginbottom University of Agriculture, Technology and Sciences, Prayagraj (U.P.) to study the effect of Biofertilizers and Foliar application of Boron on Growth and Yield of Greengram. The result showed that treatment 9 (Rhizobium (10 g) + PSB (10 g)) + 0.6% Boron recorded significant higher plant height (47.91 cm), maximum number of nodules/plant (8.00), higher plant dry weight (7.70 g), maximum crop growth rate (11.63 g/m2/day), and yield attributes namely higher number of pods/ plant (27.50), higher number of seeds/pod (8.63), higher test weight (40.33g), higher seed yield (1.52 t/ha), higher stover yield (3.67 t/ha) and higher harvest index (29.42 %) compared to other treatment combinations. The maximum gross return (90940.00 INR/ha), maximum net return (59183.00 INR/ha), highest benefit cost ratio (1.86) was also recorded in treatment 9 [Rhizobium (10 g) + PSB (10 g)] + 0.6% Boron when compared to other treatments. ','Greengram, Biofertilizers, Boron, Growth, Yield and Economics','It can be concluded that the foliar application of boron and biofertilizers performs positively and improves the growth and yield of greengram. Maximum gross return, net return and benefit cost ratio was recorded with the application of Rhizobium (10g) and PSB (10g) with foliar application of 0.6% Boron.','-','Abhishali, Victor Debbarma and Abhishek Chauhan (2023). Effect of Biofertilizers and Foliar application of Boron on Growth and Yield of Greengram (Phaseolus radiatus L.). Biological Forum – An International Journal, 15(3): 277-281.'),(6323,'150','Prospects of Increasing Farm Income through Optimum Production Pattern in Three Regions of Somasila Project in Andhra Pradesh','Ch. Srilatha','Prospects-of-Increasing-Farm-Income-through-Optimum-Production-Pattern-in-Three-Regions-of-Somasila-Project-in-Andhra-Pradesh-Ch-Srilatha-44.pdf','',1,'The results of the study revealed that there exists sub-optimal allocation of resources in the existing plans of small and large farmers. The process of optimization under different water supply conditions resulted in the improvement in the net farm returns of both the categories of farmers in the study area. However, the optimum model developed at existing water availability resulted in higher net farm returns as compared to other models developed at 10, 20 and 30 percent reduction in the water supply on small and large farms of head, middle and tail regions. The major challenge in the present study is availability of data regarding water levels at head, middle and tail regions. The process of optimization led to increase in the area under high valued crops and thus reducing the number of crops It is also evident that the decline in the net farm returns were more pronounced on both the categories of farms of the three regions when water availability was reduced by 30 percent.','Optimum Plans, Rational Resource Allocation, Linear Programming Model, Sensitivity Analysis','In sum the present study revealed that farmers were operating their farms under conditions of sub-optimality. But the extent of mal allocation of resources was relatively higher on the small farms compared to the large farms. The optimum cropping pattern involved fewer crops, thereby indicating the trend towards specialization. The process of optimization led to increase in the area under high valued crops and thus reducing the number of crops. There is greater scope for increasing the net farm returns and the use of resource services and resources through systematic farm planning under the existing water supply and resource base on the farms of the three regions. The sensitivity analysis with reduced availability of water by 10, 20 and 30 per cent level revealed that the farmer’s income could be increased over the existing plan if the normative plans are adopted. The optimum plans developed at 30 per cent reduction in water availability indicated substantial decrease in net farm income. The shadow price of irrigation water was higher on small farms compared to large farms. This implies that additional hectare centimeter of irrigation water for small farmers would be more remunerative.','-','Ch. Srilatha (2023). Prospects of Increasing Farm Income through Optimum Production Pattern in Three Regions of Somasila Project in Andhra Pradesh. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 15(3): 282-293.'),(6324,'150','The Substitution of Mustard Oilseed Cake (Brassica napus) for Poultry Flour in Snakehead Fish Channa gachua',' Ali Akshad M., Ashique P.A., Mohamed Munawwar and Rasha Naureen','The-Substitution-of-Mustard-Oilseed-Cake-(Brassica-napus)-for-Poultry-Flour-in-Snakehead-Fish-Channa-gachua-Ashique-P.A-45.pdf','',1,'In most of the countries around the world, supplemental feeding is a crucial technique for fish farming. Supplemental feeds like groundnut cake, mustard cake, cotton seed cake, and other oil cakes mixed with rice bran or wheat bran are frequently used. The major components of artificial feed, which are typically provided, are byproducts of various agricultural commodities, including vegetables, oil cake, rice, wheat bran and husk, etc. In order to maximize fish productivity and save costs, nutrient-balanced fish feed must be developed using materials that are readily available regionally. One such widely available fish feed is the oil extracted from the mustard seeds. Following the extraction of oil from mustard seeds, mustard oil cake is produced as a byproduct. These oilcakes are employed as feedstock in the manufacturing of supplemental aquafeed in industrial settings. Depending on the various growth environments and processing techniques, the chemical makeup of mustard cake changes. From June 2018 to May 2019, mustard (Brassica napus) oilseed cake was used in place of poultry meal when feeding snakehead fish. In this fish culture, it served as the primary source of protein. The live weight gain, feed conversion rate, protein efficiency ratio, and specific growth rate of fish were assessed in three groups fed diets T0, T1, and T2, respectively. The fish in group T3 saw a considerable drop in their growth indices, including a poor feed conversion rate (3.64±0.05), a low protein efficiency ratio (0.94±0.03), and a low specific growth rate (2.89±0.05). While fish from groups T0, T1, and T2 all exhibited roughly comparable levels of protein in their bodies, fish from group T3 (P<0.05) shown a substantial drop. Low body fat was evident at the level of total substitution of chicken offal meal with mustard oilseed cake (P < 0.05). Although being much greater in fish fed the T3 diet, The diets T0, T1, and T2 did not substantially differ from one another in terms of moisture content (P > 0.05). Fish fed diets T0, T1, and T2 revealed notable variations in body ash content (P>0.05), but fish in the T3 group had a considerably higher level of body ash level. The use of mustard oil cake in place of poultry offal meal had a substantial impact on the histosomatic index, viscerosomatic index, and condition factors (P<0.05). The replacement level of T2 was noted to be unaltered, however considerable modifications were found in the levels above T2.','Brassica napus, Channa gachua, Artificial Diet, Histosomatic Index, Viscerosomatic Index','The majority of the experimental fish’s growth, performance, and feeding effectiveness were unaffected by the partial substitution of poultry meal for dietary fishmeal. Low digestibility is caused by the poultry meal\'s high ash content. The mustard cake contains a high level of toxic substances, including glucosinolates, flavinoids, cyanoalanine, cyanogenic glycosides, etc. The toxic components in the mustard oilseed cake may have an impact on the fish\'s capacity to reproduce, grow, and taste good, among other things.','-','Ali Akshad M., Ashique P. A., Mohamed Munawwar and Rasha Naureen. (2023). The substitution of Mustard Oilseed Cake (Brassica napus) for poultry flour in Snakehead fish Channa gachua. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 15(3): 294-297. '),(6325,'150','Phytochemical and Antimicrobial Assessment of Leafy Vegetables Collected from Solid Waste Dumping Ground and Normal Ground - A Comparative Study','Paramita Barman, Debasree Ghosh and Ayan Saha','Phytochemical-and-Antimicrobial-Assessment-of-Leafy-Vegetables-Collected-from-Solid-Waste-Dumping-Ground-and-Normal-Ground---A-Comparative-Study-Debasree-Ghosh-46.pdf','',1,'Vegetables having antimicrobial activities play significant role against some pathogenic microorganisms. The study aims to assess and compare moisture content, antioxidant and antimicrobial activity of some selected leafy vegetables collected from Solid Waste Dumping Ground (SWDG) at Titagarh, Kolkata, West Bengal, India and from Normal ground (NG) namely Bottle gourd (Lagenaria siceraria), Red Amaranth (Amaranthus cruentus) and Ceylon Spinach (Basella alba). Matured, disease free and fresh leafy samples were collected from different SWDG and NG. Vegetables collected from NG showed significant higher values of all parameters compared to SWDG (P< 0.05). Disc diffusion method was applied for antimicrobial assessment at different concentrations (50μl and 100μl) against Gram negative organisms. The inhibitory action was indicated in almost all raw leafy vegetables but, vegetables having concentrations of 50μl and 100μl, showed no inhibitory effect on the tested organism except leaves of L. siceraria (100μl). Among these vegetables collected from SWDG, showed maximum inhibitory effect in leaves of L. siceraria followed by B. alba and in A. cruentus against Gram negative organism. It has been concluded that, cultivation on solid waste have significant positive impact on the antioxidant and antimicrobial activities of leafy vegetables.','Antioxidant activity, phytochemical screening, disc diffusion method, antimicrobial activity, antibacterial susceptibility test, SWDG, NG and CFU','The results obtained from this study provided evidence that ethanol extracts of three types of commonly consumed green leafy vegetables collected from SWDG Titagrah (Kolkata, West Bengal) and NG contained substantial amount of phytochemicals, polyphenols and flavonoids representing antioxidant properties. From the study it has been concluded that the polyphenol and flavonoid contents were found to be significantly higher (P< 0.05) in the samples collected from SWDG as compared to those that were collected from NG which might be due to the higher concentration of heavy metals coming from the contaminated soil with solid wastes as reported by several previous studies. Higher amount of flavonoids may be due to the presence of tea leaves as waste in SWDG.\r\nIt has also been concluded that, raw extract of vegetables from different places of SWDG and NG exhibited beneficial antibacterial activity against Gram negative bacterial strains with varying degrees of potency. Leafy vegetables collected from SWDG, significantly had more antimicrobial property than vegetables from NG (P< 0.05). Bioactive compounds are normally accumulated as secondary metabolites in all plant cells and presence of these bio-active compounds might be a reason to indicate high antibacterial activity of these leafy extracts. \r\n','-','Paramita Barman, Debasree Ghosh and Ayan Saha (2023). Phytochemical and Antimicrobial Assessment of Leafy Vegetables Collected from Solid Waste Dumping Ground and Normal Ground - A Comparative Study. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 15(3): 298-304. '),(6326,'150','Algal Meal’s Impact on the Fertilisation Abilities of Common Carp (Cyprinus carpio var. communis)','Hafsa Javeed, Farooz Ahmad Bhat and Oyas Asimi','Algal-Meal’s-Impact-on-the-Fertilisation-Abilities-of-Common-Carp-(Cyprinus-carpio-var.-communis)-Hafsa-Javeed-47.pdf','',1,'Spirulina is a blue-green algae that contains upto 70% dry weight protein and is a good source of vitamins and PUFA. This study\'s goal was to evaluate the reproductive efficiency of Common carp fed with Spirulina supplemented diets at varied levels and to achieve the most effective supplementation of S platensis in feed. The experiment was set up in which 150 C carp fish were assigned randomly to follow treatments: T1 = Spirulina 25g/kg, T2 = Spirulina 50g/kg, T3 = Spirulina 75g/kg, T4 = Spirulina 100g/kg and T0 = feed without supplementation as control in 3 replicates. The results showed that supplementation of Spirulina platensis affected reproductive parameters in common carp and better results were obtained at a dosage of 7.5% i.e. T3.','Algae, Fecundity, Feed, Gonadosomatic index, Spirulina','Gonado somatic index (GSI) of treatment group (T3 @7.5% Spirulina) performed better than control (T0) for both males and females. Fecundity was recorded in terms of absolute and relative fecundity. The absolute fecundity of common carp in the present study ranged from 5888±643.7 to 3632±749.3 and the relative fecundity varied from 99±13.37 to 69±13.08. Spirulina platensis has beneficial effects on the growth, reproduction and blood physiology of common carp (Cyprinus carpio var. communis) based on the results of the present study. Spirulina can replace upto 7.5% (T3) of fish meal in the diet of common carp without any adverse effects on growth. Currently, Spirulina production is directed towards its use as a feed additive at low inclusion levels. However, the present study demonstrates the feasibility of its use as a substitute source of protein in fish dietsss, giving arguments for intensification in Spirulina cultivation and its use in fish feeds.','-','Hafsa Javeed, Farooz Ahmad Bha and Oyas Asimi (2023). Algal Meal’s Impact on the Fertilisation Abilities of Common Carp (Cyprinus carpio var. communis). Biological Forum – An International Journal, 15(3): 305-308.'),(6327,'150','Sociodemographic Determinants as Risk Factors for Head and Neck Cancer in Indian Patients of Rural Area','Kaushal P. Jani, Rajesh Kantharia, Shehnaz Kantharia, Deepti K. Jani and Sunita Goswami ','Sociodemographic-Determinants-as-Risk-Factors-for-Head-and-Neck-Cancer-in-Indian-Patients-of-Rural-Area-Sunita Goswami-48.pdf','',1,'The current clinical study was carried out to find out the association between sociodemographic factors and the risk of developing head and neck cancer in Indian patients of rural area. This study was conducted on 150 participants, divided in two groups as case cohorts and their control cohorts. Sociodemographic variables and tobacco consumption were recorded as study parameters. Statistical analysis was performed to assess association of sociodemographic variables with head and neck cancer. Incidence of head and neck cancer was found to be less in participants with higher education or higher income group as compared to participants with lower education or lower income group. Our findings confirm that some of sociodemographic determinants were associated with the risk of head and neck cancer.','clinical, sociodemographic, Indian, cancer, head and neck','Our results indicate significant association between sociodemographic factors and occurrence of HNC. It is concluded that tobacco consumption, low income and lower education level are significant risk factors for head and neck cancers.','-','Kaushal P. Jani, Rajesh Kantharia, Shehnaz Kantharia, Deepti K. Jani and Sunita Goswami (2023). Sociodemographic Determinants as Risk Factors for Head and Neck Cancer in Indian Patients of Rural Area. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 15(3): 309-312.'),(6328,'150','Multivariate Analysis for Grain Yield and Nutritional Quality Traits of Green Seeded Chickpea (Cicer arietinum L.) Genotypes derived from Desi and Kabuli (GKB-10 × MNK-1): Initial Efforts for Green Seeded Chickpea Bio-fortification','Honnappa M., Mannur D.M., Padmashree R., Umesh Babu B.S., Muttappa H., and Archana K.A.','Multivariate-Analysis-for-Grain-Yield-and-Nutritional-Quality-Traits-of-Green-Seeded-Chickpea-(Cicer-arietinum-L.)-Genotypes-derived-from-Desi-and-Kabuli-(GKB-10-×-MNK-1)-Initial-Efforts-for-Green-S-Honnappa-M-49.pdf','',1,'Chickpea is one of the most important nutritious grain legumes crop in the world with plant based protein and mineral elements. There is limited information available on micro and macro nutrients in chickpea. Therefore, an effort was made to evaluate as set of 90 F6 green seeded chickpea genotypes derived from the cross between milky white Kabuli genotype with Desi green seeded genotypes (MNK-1 and GKB-10) for nutrients such as Protein (Pr), Iron (Fe), Zinc (Zn), Calcium (Ca), Boron (Bo), Cupper (Cu), Potassium (K), Magnesium (Mg), Manganese (Mn) which are analyzed by ICP-MS technique, and grain yield per plant using multivariate analysis. Results from ANOVA revealed that mean MSS due to test genotypes vs checks exhibited highly significant difference for all the nutrient parameters studied except for grain yield per plant, genetic variability revealed existence of High GCV, PCV and heritability (h2) coupled with high GAM for the entire nutrient parameters studied and grain yield per plant except for the protein content. The correlation analysis revealed as high positive inter correlation among the nutrient parameters, grain yield per plant however shown positive non-significant association for Pr, Zn, Bo, Cu and Mn, while Fe, Ca and K nutrients revealed negative non-significant association. The PC analysis with three component viz., PC1, PC2 and PC3 showed 53.96%, 11.03% and 10.40% of variations among the studied parameters respectively, with total cumulative variance of 73.39%, the diversity analysis grouped the genotypes 3 major cluster, cluster III is being major group consisting of 32 green seeded genotypes fallowed by Cluster II and cluster I, the average inter and intra cluster distance was also calculated for these nutrient parameters, the genotypes belongs to the cluster I found to be higher side for all the nutrient content studied, so these promising lines may serve as a genetic resource for improving the nutritional qualities and giving an opportunity for bio-fortification to combat micronutrient malnutrition.','Green seeded chickpea, Multivariate analysis, Desi and Kabuli type, Principle component analysis','The present study that used multivariate techniques to appraise the measure of genetic variation in micro and macro nutrient parameters with grain yield components of 90 green seeded chickpea genotypes with Kabuli types was a first step in achievement an understanding into the genetic diversity of Desi green seed with Kabuli milky white parental genotypes, which is an important step towards an efficient utilization of genetic resources of chickpea breeding. Results from the work revealed existence of sufficient amount of variability giving an opportunity for exploring the genetic diversity along with strong association between the micro and macro nutrients studied. The classifying of genotypes would be of practical value to chickpea breeders to identify the genotype with desired trait for utilization in breeding program for genetic improvement. The cluster analysis classified the chickpea genotypes into three separate clusters, exhibiting that hybridization of genotypes across clusters could lead to increase in heterosis in cross progenies. The results of present study can be used in breeding strategies for future hybridization programs for nutrition improvement and to combat micronutrient malnutrition by generating bio-fortified green Kabuli chickpea genotypes which can be used as a nutrient dense seeds to mitigate many human health problems associated with protein and micronutrient deficiency. ','-','Honnappa M., Mannur D.M., Padmashree R., Umesh Babu B.S., Muttappa H., and Archana K.A. (2023). Multivariate Analysis for Grain Yield and Nutritional Quality Traits of Green Seeded Chickpea (Cicer arietinum L.) Genotypes derived from Desi and Kabuli (GKB-10 × MNK-1): Initial Efforts for Green Seeded Chickpea Bio-fortification. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 15(3): 313-325.'),(6329,'150','ZnO Nanoparticles bio-synthesized using Hibiscus subdariffa Leaf extract for Potential Medicinal Application in hyperbilirubinemia','Niranjan Bala','ZnO-Nanoparticles-bio-synthesized-using-Hibiscus-subdariffa-Leaf-extract-for-Potential-Medicinal-Application-in-hyperbilirubinemia-Bala-N-50.pdf','',1,'Zinc oxide nanoparticles (ZnO NP) were synthesized following the green route by whole leaf extract of the plant Hibiscus subdariffa. The formation of ZnO NPs was confirmed by X-ray diffraction (XRD) and UV-visible (UV-VIS) spectroscopy. The morphology and size distribution of synthesized particles were analysed by Field emission scanning electron microscopy (FESEM) and High resolution transmission electron microscopy (HRTEM). This study also provides experimental evidence for its ameliorative action against CCl4-induced hyperbilirubinemia in Swiss albino mice. Liver function enzyme assays like ALT (alanine transaminase), ALP (alkaline phosphatase), AST (aspartate aminotransferase), GGT (Gamma-glutamyl Transferase) and biochemical studies showed that altered biochemical profiles due to jaundice were restored significantly after the administration of H. subdariffa-mediated synthesized ZnO nanoconjugate over control and other treatments. Insignificant changes in hematological parameters such as Hemoglobin, hematocrit, mean corpuscular volume, mean corpuscular hemoglobin, platelets and white blood cell counts among different treatment groups suggested the bio-friendly nature of the green NPs. H. subdariffa-mediated synthesized ZnO nanoconjugate exhibits a synergistic effect of both chemically synthesized ZnO NPs and H. subdariffa herb against hyperbilirubinemia.','Zinc oxide nanoparticles, Hibiscus subdariffa, hyperbilirubinemia, jaundice, hematological, mice','In summary, the result of this study demonstrates thatH. subdariffa-mediated ZnO NPs have a significant hepatoprotective effect in mice against CCl4-induced liver injury. These green synthesized NPs exhibit significant anti-hyperbilirubinemia activities in Swiss albino mice by restoring altered levels of serum bilirubin and liver function enzymes, suggesting the stabilization of hepatocytic cell membrane or recovery of injured liver cells.','-','Niranjan Bala (2023). ZnO Nanoparticles bio-synthesized using Hibiscus subdariffa Leaf extract for Potential Medicinal Application in hyperbilirubinemia. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 15(3): 326-330.'),(6330,'150','Occurrence of different Pesticides in Sediment Samples of River Godavari during different Seasons','Javid Manzoor, Irfan Rashid Sofi and Sanjay Popatrao Kaware','Occurrence-of-different-Pesticides-in-Sediment-Samples-of-River-Godavari-during-different-Seasons-Javid-Manzoor-51.pdf','',1,'The concentration of different insecticides and fungicides in Godavari river sediment at Nasik during different seasons was investigated in the present study. The pesticides were determined by proper procedures and protocols. Gas chromatography was used to know the concentration of pesticides. Different types of insecticides and fungicides were found in the sediment samples of Godavari River. The primary sources of pesticides were agricultural runoff from the adjacent agricultural fields. This is the first study that has been conducted in this area. Hence, it is recommended that pesticide use should be limited and use of bio-pesticides may be encouraged. The Chemical Control and Management Centre of the Environmental Protection Agency should check possible faking and adulteration of banned organochlorine pesticides.','Insecticides, fungicides, agricultural runoff, Godavari River','This investigation indicated that Godavari river systems under consideration are polluted by pesticides, with the presence of Carbandazim, Azoxystrobin, Imidacloprid, Flusilazole, Dimethomorph, Thiamethoxam, Fenamidone, Pyraclostrobin, Clothianidin, Iprovalicarb, Hexaconazole, kresoxim methyl, Triadimefon, Penconazole, Spinosad A, Methyl Parathion, pp-DDT1, pp-DDD, Carbandazim, Azoxystrobin, Imidacloprid, Ethion, Malathion, Parathion being particularly widespread. The concentration levels of these popular pesticides are discovered to be greater than the required regulatory limits, demonstrating the unenthusiastic state of the river systems and posing a threat to the water\'s environment. ','-','Javid Manzoor, Irfan Rashid Sofi and Sanjay Popatrao Kaware (2023). Occurrence of different Pesticides in Sediment Samples of River Godavari during different Seasons. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 15(3): 331-337.'),(6331,'150','Effect of Weed Management and Vermicompost on Growth Indices and Yield of Clusterbean under Udaipur Region','Harish Kumar Bijarnia, Arvind Verma, M.K. Kaushik, S.C. Meena, L.N. Mahaver and H.K. Jain','Effect-of-Weed-Management-and-Vermicompost-on-Growth-Indices-and-Yield-of-Clusterbean-under-Udaipur-Region-Harish-Kumar-Bijarnia-52.pdf','',1,'The Research Farm, Department of Agronomy, Rajasthan College of Agriculture, Udaipur (Rajasthan) conducted a field study during 2020-21 and 2021-22 at different weed management practices and levels of vermicompost were studied. The experiment was laid out in factorial randomized block design with three replications and 8 treatments of weed management and two level of vermicompost. Pre-emergence application of pendimethalin + imazethapyr (RM) 750 g ha-1fb one hand weeding at 40 DAS recorded significantly higher growth indices viz. CGR, RGR, NAR and LAI and seed and haulm yield during both the study years. Application of vermicompost 5 t ha-1 also observed significantly higher growth indices viz. CGR, RGR, NAR and LAI and seed and haulm yield during both the study years.','Clusterbean, Weed management, Vermicompost, Yield','From the experiment, it is concluded that the pre-emergence application of pendimethalin + imazethapyr (RM) 750 g ha-1fb hand weeding at 40 DAS was best for growth in culsterbean and increased the yield of cluaterbean. Application of vemicompost 5 t ha-1 recorded significantly higher growth indices and yield of clusterbean.','-','Harish Kumar Bijarnia, Arvind Verma, M.K. Kaushik, S.C. Meena, L.N. Mahaver and H.K. Jain (2023). Effect of Weed Management and Vermicompost on Growth Indices and Yield of Clusterbean under Udaipur Region. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 15(3): 338-342.'),(6332,'150','Antioxidant and Phytochemical Analysis of Leaf Extract of Velvet Bean (Mucuna pruriens (L): An Experimental Analysis in Wistar Albino Rats','Indla Ravi, Manivannan E., V Sivasankari V., Kothai Ramalingam and Regina Roy','Antioxidant-and-Phytochemical-Analysis-of-Leaf-Extract-of-Velvet-Bean-(Mucuna-pruriens-(L)-An-Experimental-Analysis-in-Wistar-Albino-Rats-Indla-Ravi-53.pdf','',1,'Several disorders have pathophysiologies that have been linked to oxidative stress and a deficient antioxidant system. Seeds of Mucuna pruriens are used to treat and manage a range of disorders, were examined for antioxidants and phytochemicals, but there are very little or no information on the presence of phytochemicals and antioxidants in the leaf extracts of Mucuna pruriens. Based on their power to block the 2,2-diphenyl-1-picrylhydrazyl (DPPH) radical, the extracts\' potential as free radical scavengers were evaluated. The extract\'s phytochemical content was tested using ethanol and distilled water. To test the antioxidant activity of the extracts, malondialdehyde (MDA). Superoxide dismutase (SOD). and catalase (CAT) levels in the liver of albino rats treated with carbon tetrachloride (CCl4) were evaluated. A single injection of CCl4 (3 mL/kg body weight) was given to the animals after they had received the extract for six consecutive days at a dose of 400 mg/kg body weight each. The most extensively utilized antioxidant was vitamin C. The extract contained saponins, tannins, anthraquinones, terpenoids, flavonoids, and alkaloids according to a phytochemical analysis of Mucuna pruriens. Extract reduced the DPPH radical in a concentration-dependent manner and it is statistically equal to vitamin C (P >0.05) in terms of inhibition. In comparison to the positive control, the extracts markedly decreased (P 0.05) the levels of liver MDA while markedly boosting (P 0.05) the levels of SOD and CAT. These findings call attention to the extract\'s antioxidant capabilities and may shed light on the therapeutic usage of this plant.','Phytochemicals, DPPH, MDA, SOD, Traditional Medicine, Mucuna pruriens, Antioxidants, CNS Activities, Adverse drug reactions, Vitamin-C, Albino rats','This research is important as it could lead to the development of new drugs or supplements that can help prevent or treat diseases associated with oxidative stress. Further studies are needed to fully understand the potential health benefits of these leaves and their antioxidant properties.','-','Indla Ravi, Manivannan E., V Sivasankari V., Kothai Ramalingam and Regina Roy (2023). Antioxidant and Phytochemical Analysis of Leaf Extract of Velvet Bean (Mucuna pruriens (L): An Experimental Analysis in Wistar Albino Rats. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 15(3): 343-346.'),(6333,'150','Human Schistosomiasis Disease: Diagnosis, Management and Treatment according to WHO Guidelines','Kiran Mahajan, Komal Nirale, Shubhrajit Mantry, Shital Bidkar and Ganesh Dama','Human-Schistosomiasis-Disease-Diagnosis,-Management-and-Treatment-According-to-WHO-Guidelines-Kiran-Mahajan-54.pdf','',4,'Human schistosomiasis is a parasitic disease brought on by blood worms that infect the liver, colon, bladder, and urethra among other organs. With the use of Praziquantel, vaccinations, and gene therapy, this illness might be cured. One of the neglected tropical illnesses that has a major impact on people\'s health in Ethiopia is schistosomiasis. The sole medication used to treat human schistosomiasis in the nation is praziquantel. These parasites have two types of hosts throughout their life cycles: snails and mammals. Schistosomiasis symptoms can be acute or persistent. Fever and headache are two examples of acute schistosomiasis\'s clinical symptoms. Dysuria and hyperplasia are two signs of persistent infections. The five species that can infect people. S. haematobium, S. japonicum, and S. mansoni are the three strains that are most common. The Kato-Katz and PCR are two methods for schistosomiasis detection. The only medication that effectively treats this condition at the moment is praziquantel.','Schistosomiasis, Praziquantel, Schistosoma mansoni, S. japonicum, PCR, Sporocysts','This review revealed that Praziquantel is the only medication that can currently be used to treat schistosomiasis. There are three main species of worm i.e., S. haematobium, S. japonicum, and S. mansoni. that can infect humans. In the schistosomiasis life cycle, hosts include both snails and animals. Snails can reproduce asexually, while mammals can only reproduce sexually. Two further drugs that have showed promise in the treatment of schistosomiasis are oxamniquine for S. mansoni and metrifonate for S. haematobium, but they are either no longer widely available or have been abandoned due to significant toxicity.','-','Kiran Mahajan, Komal Nirale, Shubhrajit Mantry, Shital Bidkar and Ganesh Dama (2023). Human Schistosomiasis Disease: Diagnosis, Management and Treatment According to WHO Guidelines. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 15(3): 347-351.'),(6334,'150','Human Schistosomiasis Disease: Diagnosis, Management and Treatment according to WHO Guidelines','Kiran Mahajan, Komal Nirale, Shubhrajit Mantry, Shital Bidkar and Ganesh Dama','Human-Schistosomiasis-Disease-Diagnosis,-Management-and-Treatment-According-to-WHO-Guidelines-Kiran-Mahajan-54.pdf','',1,'Human schistosomiasis is a parasitic disease brought on by blood worms that infect the liver, colon, bladder, and urethra among other organs. With the use of Praziquantel, vaccinations, and gene therapy, this illness might be cured. One of the neglected tropical illnesses that has a major impact on people\'s health in Ethiopia is schistosomiasis. The sole medication used to treat human schistosomiasis in the nation is praziquantel. These parasites have two types of hosts throughout their life cycles: snails and mammals. Schistosomiasis symptoms can be acute or persistent. Fever and headache are two examples of acute schistosomiasis\'s clinical symptoms. Dysuria and hyperplasia are two signs of persistent infections. The five species that can infect people. S. haematobium, S. japonicum, and S. mansoni are the three strains that are most common. The Kato-Katz and PCR are two methods for schistosomiasis detection. The only medication that effectively treats this condition at the moment is praziquantel.','Schistosomiasis, Praziquantel, Schistosoma mansoni, S. japonicum, PCR, Sporocysts','This review revealed that Praziquantel is the only medication that can currently be used to treat schistosomiasis. There are three main species of worm i.e., S. haematobium, S. japonicum, and S. mansoni. that can infect humans. In the schistosomiasis life cycle, hosts include both snails and animals. Snails can reproduce asexually, while mammals can only reproduce sexually. Two further drugs that have showed promise in the treatment of schistosomiasis are oxamniquine for S. mansoni and metrifonate for S. haematobium, but they are either no longer widely available or have been abandoned due to significant toxicity.','-','Kiran Mahajan, Komal Nirale, Shubhrajit Mantry, Shital Bidkar and Ganesh Dama (2023). Human Schistosomiasis Disease: Diagnosis, Management and Treatment According to WHO Guidelines. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 15(3): 347-351.'),(6335,'150','Influence of different Levels of NAA and 2, 4, 5-T on Fruit Quality of Indian Ber (Zizyphus mauritiana Lamk.)','Manoj Kumar, A.K. Dwivedi, V.K. Tripathi and Akash Shukla','Influence-of-different-Levels-of-NAA-and-2,-4,-5-T-on-Fruit-Quality-of-Indian-Ber-(Zizyphus-mauritiana-Lamk.)-VK-Tripathi-55.pdf','',1,'The experiment was carried out at Horticulture Garden, Department of Fruit Science, C. S. Azad University of Agriculture and Technology, Kanpur (U.P.) during two subsequent years i.e., 2020-21 and 2021-22 on 48 years old plants of cv. Banarasi Karaka. These plants were pruned every after four years to maintain uniformity in growth and fruiting height. For this experiment there were sixteen treatments viz., four levels each of NAA (0, 20, 30 and 40 ppm) and 2,4,5-T (0, 10, 20 and 30ppm) were studied in a Factorial Completely Randomized Design with three replications. Spraying of these plant bio-regulators was done on the eleventh of November, 2020 in the first year and fifteenth of November, 2021 in the second year at pea stage of fruit setting stage with a fine nozzle sprayer in each treatment to give uniform spray on ber plant. Application of NAA @ 40 ppm and 2,4,5-T @ 30 ppm produced fruits with significantly more pulp weight (34.65 and 34.70 g), maximum pulp: stone ratio (35.62 and 35.82) and minimum acidity percentage (0.08 and 0.07%). Total soluble solid content was significantly increased (16.75 and 17.12°Brix) by application of NAA @ 40 ppm and 2,4,5-T @ 30 ppm during both years of experimentation. The maximum TSS: acid ratio (211.54 and 239.92), maximum vitamin-C (92.30 and 93.66 mg) was also recorded with the treatment of NAA @ 40 ppm and 2,4,5-T @ 30 ppm. The highest reducing sugar content (4.91 and 4.93 %) was recorded with treatment combination of N2A3 (NAA @ 30ppm and 2,4,5-T @3 0ppm). The maximum non-reducing sugar (5.30 and 5.70 %), maximum total sugar content (10.62 and 8.61 %) was significantly found under NAA @ 40 ppm and 2,4,5-T @ 30 ppm during both the years of experimentation in the plains of northern India. ','2,4,5-T, TSS, Titratable acidity, NAA, Total sugar, Non-reducing sugar, Reducing sugar, Pulp weight','It may be concluded that the application of NAA and 2,4,5-T resulted in the quality of Indian ber with maximum TSS (Total Soluble Solid), Titratable acidity, Vitamin-C mg/100g of pulp), Total sugar which ultimately increased the quality of ber fruit with NAA @ 40ppm and 2,4,5-T@ 30ppm during both years of experiments.','-','Manoj Kumar, A.K. Dwivedi, V.K. Tripathi and Akash Shukla (2023). Influence of different Levels of NAA and 2, 4, 5-T on Fruit Quality of Indian Ber (Zizyphus mauritiana Lamk.). Biological Forum – An International Journal, 15(3): 352-357.'),(6336,'150','A Study on Food Quality Attributes of Novel Value-Added Emu Meat (Dromaius novaehollandiae) Cutlets in Comparison with Beef (Bos indicus) and Chicken (Gallus gallus domesticus) Cutlets','B. Karthik, Robinson J.J Abraham, R. Narendra Babu and P. Tensingh Gnanaraj','A-Study-on-Food-Quality-Attributes-of-Novel-Value-Added-Emu-Meat-(Dromaius-Novaehollandiae)-Cutlets-in-Comparison-With-Beef-(Bos-indicus)-and-Chicken-(Gallus-Gallus-Domesticus)-Cutlets-B-Karthik-56.pdf','',1,'Red meat is an important part of the human diet for its delicious flavor and taste, provides a rich source of high biological value protein and essential nutrients. However, there is a negative health image like the risk associated with colon cancer and heart disease. Hence, to overcome these hurdles, an alternate solution is required. As we all know ratite meat is lean red meat similar to beef both in taste and appearance. When compared to chicken meat, it’s darker in color which may be due to increased myoglobin content. So, as an excellent alternative to red meat, emu must be familiarized among red meat consumers. Moreover, emu meat does not suffer any religious taboos. Hence, a study on the development of a novel value added emu meat cutlet was designed and the same was compared with beef and chicken. The products were compared for their sensory characteristics viz. appearance, flavor, odour, juiciness, texture, and overall acceptability by a taste panel of 5 semi-trained panelists. The cooking yield, proximate analysis, colour by standard Hunter L*a*b* system, and texture profile of the products were also assessed. Data obtained were statistically analyzed and the results of the study showed that the sensory scores, instrumental colour, and texture profile of the emu cutlet were superior when compared to chicken and beef cutlets. Hence, emu meat can be preferably considered as an alternative to red meat for health-conscious consumers who love the traditional taste of red meat. Moreover, it indicated that a high margin of profit could be obtained by the value addition of emu meat.','Cutlet, Emu, Beef, Chicken, Proximate, Sensory, Colour, Texture','Emu meat is an excellent alternative to red meat in comparison with beef, mutton, chevon, and carabeef. Emu meat plays a major role for health conscious consumers who love the traditional taste of red meat and lower-fat alternatives to beef and mutton. The sensory scores were found to be acceptable. It was observed that a high margin of profit from cutlet could be obtained by value addition. Value improvement can be done by the incorporation of functional (non-meat) ingredients into meat products (Kausar et al., 2019). Hence, converting meat as value added product which in turn increases its functionality. Moreover, there are no religious taboos against emu meat and the demand for convenient meat products is growing. Therefore, emu meat and its value-added meat products among the public could be popularized by creating awareness about the health benefits and advantages of emu meat and meat products.','-','B. Karthik, Robinson J.J Abraham, R. Narendra Babu and P. Tensingh Gnanaraj (2023). A Study on Food Quality Attributes of Novel Value-Added Emu Meat (Dromaius novaehollandiae) Cutlets in Comparison with Beef (Bos indicus) and Chicken (Gallus gallus domesticus) Cutlets. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 15(3): 358-363.'),(6337,'150','Evaluation of Combined Management Options for Managing Pests of Lycopersicon esculentum Mill','Nirupama Goudia, Rohit Raj Singh and Manoj Kumar Jena','Evaluation-of-Combined-Management-Options-for-Managing-Pests-of-Lycopersicon-esculentum-Mill-Manoj-Kumar-Jena-57.pdf','',1,'The tomato, Lycopersicon esculentum Mill is susceptible to a wide range of insect pests that affect fruit quality and quantity. Continuous use of insecticides affects human health and have a negative impact on the environment. There is the need to find good agricultural pest management practices to combat the pests. Therefore, the present investigation was conducted to evaluate an effective combined management option for managing pests of L. esculentum Mill, at K.V.K. Instructional Farm located near College of Agriculture, Odisha University of Agriculture and Technology, Bhawanipatna, Kalahandi, Odisha during the cropping season 2020–21 from November, 2020 to May, 2021. All the treatments, T1 – Neem oil (Multi Neem) @ 5ml/litre at an interval of 7 days, T2 − Neem oil (Multi Neem) @ 5ml/litre + chlorphenapyr 10 EC (Ustad) @ 100g a.i./ha (4 gm or ml/litre) and emamectin benzoate 5% SG (Dhanuka EM-1) @ 12g a.i./ha (0.5g/litre) at an interval of 14 days in alternate sprays, T3 – Neem oil (Multi Neem) @ 5ml/litre + chlorphenapyr 10 EC (Ustad) @ 100g a.i./ha (4 gm or ml/litre) and emamectin benzoate 5% SG (Dhanuka EM-1) @ 12g a.i./ha (0.5g/litre) at an interval of 14 days in alternate sprays + Bacillus thuringiensis kurstaki (Green Larvicide) @ 4g/litre once in every 14 days, were superior to the untreated check (T4) and effective in managing the pests of tomato. Moreover, the Incremental Cost Benefit Ratio (ICBR) was superior in T3 (1: 2.60) followed by T2 (1: 1.66) and T1 (1: 1.18) subsequently. The T3 was the most dominant and cost-effective in managing pests of L. esculentum. However, natural enemies, spiders and coccinellids and pollinators, carpenter bee and honey bee were less in the T3 treatment as compared to others.','IPM, Lycopersicon esculentum, natural enemies, pests, pollinators','All the treatments were significantly superior to untreated check but efficacy level varied between treatments. T3 produced the best impact, the lowest damage and the least number of insect pests/plant. It was followed by T2 and T1 in the order. However, T3 was significantly superior to T2 and T1. The highest number of natural enemies were recorded in T4 and T1 was at par safe with it. T2 and T3 were also apparently safe to predatory coccinellids and spiders but both were inferior to T1 and T4 in terms of safety to natural enemies. The ICBR was superior in T3 (1: 2.60) followed by T2 (1: 1.66) and T3 (1: 1.18) subsequently. The population of natural enemies, mostly spiders and coccinellids and pollinators, bee species, was less variable in T3 treatment.','-','Nirupama Goudia, Rohit Raj Singh and Manoj Kumar Jena (2023). Evaluation of Combined Management Options for Managing Pests of Lycopersicon esculentum Mill. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 15(3): 364-369.'),(6338,'150','Genetic Plasticity for Root Architectural Traits in Backcrossed Population Derived from Wild Rice (Oryza rufipogon Griff) under Low Soil Phosphorous condition','Honnappa, Anantha M. Siddaiah, Padmashree R., C. Gireesh, Kalyani M. Barbadikar, J.R. Diwan, Manoj C. A., Basavaraj P.S., Muralidhara B., Ajita V. and Banoth Vinesh ','Genetic-Plasticity-for-Root-Architectural-Traits-in-Backcrossed-Population-Derived-from-Wild-Rice-(Oryza-rufipogon-Griff)-under-Low-Soil-Phosphorous-Condition-58.pdf','',1,'Soil phosphorous (P) deficiency is one of the limiting factors in rice production and productivity contributing more than 50% of soil with P deficient, particularly in upland and rainfed lowland cultivations. Since P is diffusion limited in depleted zones developed around roots, root architecture traits are become prime importance for P acquisition including root length, root volume, root density in terms of fresh and dry weight basis which will ultimately support to the above ground portion of the plant growth. Oryza rufipogon Griff, a cultivated wild relative (CWR) of rice which is known to be a good source for low P tolerance trait. Hence the present study was undertaken to assess genetic variation along association between interrelated traits in relation to the low soil P conditions for the backcrossed populations derived from the cross between Samba mahasuri and (Oryza rufipogon Griff). The results revealed that, MSS due to genotypes were highly significant (p<0.01 and p<0.05) for all the traits under study, viz., number of tillers per plant, root length, root volume, shoot fresh and dry weight, root fresh and dry weight, root to shoot ratio on dry weight basis considering both two seasons of low P and one season of control conditions respectively, except for shoot length under low P during Rabi and root to shoot ratio on wet weight basis under control during Kharif season. Wide range of genetic variation were recorded for the traits such as root length, root fresh and dry weight, shoot fresh and dry weight and root to shoot ratio on wet weight basis with high GCV and PCV and high heritability coupled with high GAM. Inter-correlation among the component traits such as numbers of tillers per plant, root length, shoot length, root volume, shoot fresh and dry weight, root fresh and dry weight and root to shoot ratio on wet and dry weight basis exhibited strong association between them, even considering under stress and control conditions.','Oryza rufipogon Griff, Root architecture, Low soil phosphorous, Root volume, Root length','The current study revealed that the root length, root volume, shoot dry weight, root dry weigh and root to shoot ratio are the best parameters for indicating the low soil P tolerance due to their high plasticity with availability of nutrients like P from the root zones. Presence of significant variation has been observed along with high GCV and PCV, high heritability coupled with high GAM reported for these traits for the test genotypes studied, indicate the potentiality of the ILs to contribute novel sources for improvement of these root traits under low soil P condition. The association studies of tiller number with root related traits reveals that, inter-correlation among the component traits such as numbers of tillers per plant, root length, shoot length, root volume, shoot fresh and dry weight, root fresh and dry weight and root to shoot ratio on wet and dry weight basis exhibited strong association between them, even considering under stress and control conditions.','-','Honnappa, Anantha M. Siddaiah, Padmashree R., C. Gireesh, Kalyani M. Barbadikar, J.R. Diwan, Manoj C. A., Basavaraj P.S., Muralidhara B., Ajita V. and Banoth Vinesh (2023). Genetic Plasticity for Root Architectural Traits in Backcrossed Population Derived from Wild Rice (Oryza rufipogon Griff) under Low Soil Phosphorous Condition. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 15(3): 370-378.'),(6339,'150','Diversity and Population Dynamics of Fruit Fly in Bottle Gourd and its Correlation with Abiotic Factors in Nagaland','W. Shangkok Konyak, Hijam Shila Devi, A.K. Sahu, Yengkhom Suraj Singh, Hijam Meronbala Devi and Imtinaro L. ','Diversity-and-Population-Dynamics-of-Fruit-Fly-in-Bottle-Gourd-and-its-Correlation-with-Abiotic-Factors-in-Nagaland-Hijam-Shila-Devi-59.pdf','',1,'Fruit fly pose a significant growing threat to cucurbitaceous vegetables. An investigation was carried out to study the population dynamics of fruit fly in bottle gourd and its correlation with abiotic factors. Six species of fruit flies were identified viz., Bactrocera dorsalis, B. verbasifoliae, B. tuberculata, B. rubigina, B. aethriobasis and B. zonata. Among all the prevailing species, B. dorsalis was recorded as the most dominant and abundant species with relative abundance of 80.62% followed by B. verbascifoliae with 11.89%, B. rubigina with 3.16%, B. tuberculata with 2.64%, B. aethriobasis with 1.03% and B. zonata was the least abundant species representing 0.62%. The highest population of B. dorsalis was recorded during mid-July (31st SW) with a mean population of 60.66 flies/trap and was followed by another peak activity during 3rd July (29th SW) with 58.33 flies/trap. The lowest population count was recorded in B. zonata with a mean population of 2.33 flies/trap on 32th SW. Correlation analysis indicated that B. dorsalis, B. aethriobasis, B. verbascifoliae and B. zonata were found to be non-significant with all the abiotic factors. Whereas, B. tuberculata had negative significant correlation with maximum relative humidity (r = -0.898**) and B. rubigina had shown significant negative correlation with maximum temperature (-0.868*) and minimum temperature (r = -0.758*) but non- significant with other weather parameters. Monitoring of fruit flies using methyl eugenol lure proved to be promising and potential management tool in order to bring out a sustainable pest management of fruit flies.','Fruit flies, Bactrocera spp, bottle gourd, abiotic factors, correlation','The study is an indicator that diverse species of fruit flies are abundantly attacking bottle gourd causing significant damage. B. dorsalis was recorded as the most dominant and abundant species followed by B. verbascifoliae, B. rubigina, B. tuberculata, B. aethriobasis, and B. zonata. B. dorsalis, B. aethriobasis, B. verbascifoliae and B. zonata were found to be non-significant with all the abiotic factors. Whereas, B. tuberculata had negative significant correlation with maximum relative humidity (r = -0.898**) and B. rubigina had shown significant negative correlation with maximum temperature (- 0.868*) and minimum temperature (r = -0.758*). Monitoring of fruit flies using methyl eugenol lure proved to be promising and potential management tool in order to bring out a sustainable pest management of fruit flies.','-','W. Shangkok Konyak, Hijam Shila Devi, A.K. Sahu, Yengkhom Suraj Singh, Hijam Meronbala Devi and Imtinaro L. (2023). Diversity and Population Dynamics of Fruit Fly in Bottle Gourd and its Correlation with Abiotic Factors in Nagaland. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 15(3): 379-385.'),(6340,'150','Efficacy of Pongamia pinnata and Moringa oliefera in Removal of Coliform from Potable Water','Prerna Sharma, Prashant Kumar Mishra and Kishore Kumar Gupta','Efficacy-of-Pongamia-pinnata-and-Moringa-oliefera-in-Removal-of-Coliform-from-Potable-Water-Prerna Sharma-60.pdf','',1,'Water is one of the most important abiotic components of the ecosystem. In every ecosystem, whether it is natural or artificial, water is indispensable for the survival of organisms. It is also known as a natural or universal solvent. Availability of freshwater is decreasing day by day and the consumption of water around the world has increased. After industrialization, the threat of pollution has increased to an alarming stage and the most affected part of the ecosystem is water as most of the industries discharge their waste material directly into the rivers. The waste material pollutes water which poses threat to living organisms by causing several diseases on them, such as Typhoid and various gastrointestinal diseases. In such a situation it is necessary to develop techniques to purify polluted water economically, especially, in developing countries like India where safe drinking water is a scarce commodity in rural as well as urban areas. In India out of various chemicals and bacterial pollutants, coliform bacteria are a major threat as it causes various types of gastrointestinal disorders. Although various sophisticated technologies are available to remove coliform bacteria but they are very expensive for the common people. The use of chemicals in conventional water treatment such as Aluminum sulfate, Chlorine, Potassium permanganate, ferric sulfate etc., lead to various health concerns when used over an extended period of time. In this paper, a cost-effective herbal technology for water purification with the help of the Moringa oliefera and Pongamia pinnata seed has been discussed. It is evident from the result that the dried seeds of Moringa oliefera and Pongamia pinnata can reduce the coliform bacteria by 96.00% and 85.40% respectively depending upon the dose and the period of the treatment. It was found that Moringa oliefera seed is most effective than the Pongamia pinnata seed in reducing the bacterial population.','Abiotic, Indispensable, Gastrointestinal diseases, Coliform, Moringa oliefera, Pongamia pinnata','Keeping the results obtained during the study and some other available references, it is clear that herbal agents can be used for cleaning water and avoiding the ill effect of bacterial contamination. This technique is cost-effective, simple, and within reach of common people.','-','Prerna Sharma, Prashant Kumar Mishra and Kishore Kumar Gupta (2023). Efficacy of Pongamia pinnata and Moringa oliefera in Removal of Coliform from Potable Water. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 15(3): 386-390.'),(6341,'150','Short-term Zinc Biofortification effects on Morpho-economic Parameters of Rice in Rice-wheat Sequence in Inceptisols of Jammu, J&K','Gulzar Ahmad Bhat, Renu Gupta and Haziq Shabir','Short-term-Zinc-Biofortification-Effects-on-Morpho-economic-Parameters-of-Rice-in-Rice-wheat-Sequence-in-Inceptisols-of-Jammu,-J&K-Gulzar-Ahmad-Bhat-61.pdf','',1,'In order to address the issue of zinc deficiencies in rice crops, which are common in Jammu soils (known as inceptisols), different types and levels of zinc fertilizers are applied to the rice crop to determine their effectiveness in such soil conditions. The goal is to find the most suitable zinc fertilizer sources and application methods for such crop. A field trial comprising three different sources of zinc viz. zinc sulphate, zinc oxide and zinc chelate each with two levels of zinc (Zn), were applied both as soil and foliar application in rice cultivar (Pusa-1121). The experiment was carried out during the monsoon season of 2020 and 2021 at field research station of Division of Soil Science and Agricultural chemistry SKUAST-Chatha, Jammu. The treatment combination consisted of seven treatments viz. T1-Soil Application of ZnSO4.7H2O (12.5 kg ha-1 + Foliar Spray 1.6 %), T3-Soil Application of ZnO (5 kg ha-1 + Foliar spray 0.50 %), T4-Soil Application of ZnO (5 kg ha-1 + Foliar spray 0.65 %), T5-Soil Application of Zn-EDTA 10 kg ha-1 + Foliar spray 1.0 %), T6-Soil Application of Zn-EDTA-chelate 12.5 kg ha-1 + Foliar spray 1.5 %) and T7 – Control and were replicated thrice in randomized complete block design. Each plot measured 3.0 m × 2.0 m (6 m2), with plant spacing of 20 cm × 10 cm between rice seedlings. Fertilizers were applied on basis as per the recommended nutrient requirement of basmati Pusa-1121 (N:P:K). Short term effect of zinc biofortification was studied on morpho-economic parameters of rice viz., plant height, Number of effective tillers, grain yield, straw yield and dry matter accumulation at harvest. Zn EDTA-chelate at 12.5 kg ha-1 along with foliar application @ 1.5 % proved to best treatment and recorded significantly higher plant height, effective tillers m-2, grain yield, straw yield and dry matter accumulation. The percentage increase of 16.7, 18.82, 10.10, 12.3 and 15.43 were registered among all respective parameters as compared to control, whereas treatment T2-Soil Application of ZnSO4.7H2O 15 kg ha-1 + Foliar spray 2.5 %), and T5-Soil Application of Zn -EDTA 10 kg ha-1 + Foliar spray 1.0 % ) were statistically at par with treatment T6-Soil Application of Zn-EDTA-chelate 12.5 kg ha-1 + Foliar spray 1.5 %).','Zinc, Biofortification, Morphoeconomic parameters, Yield attributes','The treatment T6 (Soil Application of Zn-EDTA (12.5 kg ha-1) + Foliar spray of 1.5%) in terms of plant parameters as well under yield attributes, but was statistically at with treatment T5 (Soil Application of Zn -EDTA 10 kg ha-1 + Foliar spray of 1.0 %). However, treatment T1 (Soil Application of ZnSO4.7H2O (12. 5 kg ha-1) + Foliar spray (1.6 %) also shows better performance under such conditions, so it has equally potential to perform better in terms zinc biofortification point of view and also zinc sulphate is economically viable from farmers point of view as it easily available and cheapest among all the zinc fertilizers.\r\nHowever, in order to ensure the success of zinc biofortification interventions, it is important to implement policies such as providing financial incentives to farmers, offering capacity building and awareness programs for farmers, seed multipliers, and rural communities to educate them on balanced crop fertilization (micronutrients such as Zn), Additionally, subsidizing Zn fertilizer products for farmers and also foliar application should be at the precise time when the crop is in need of it, Zinc fertilizer soil application should be added with the organic manure so as to increase the efficiency of such fertilizers.\r\n','-','Gulzar Ahmad Bhat, Renu Gupta and Haziq Shabir (2023). Short-term Zinc Biofortification Effects on Morpho-economic Parameters of Rice in Rice-wheat Sequence in Inceptisols of Jammu, J&K. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 15(3): 391-396.'),(6342,'150','Genetic Variability and Correlation Study for Yield and Yield Attributes in Coloured Sorghum Genotypes','Akshaykumar, Suvarna, P.H. Kuchanur, G. Girish and M. Lakshmikanth','Genetic-Variability-and-Correlation-Study-for-Yield-and-Yield-Attributes-in-Coloured-Sorghum-Genotypes-Akshaykumar-62.pdf','',1,'The experiment was carried out at College of Agriculture Raichur, during rabi 2021 in an augmented design to valuate the variability and characters association among grain yield and yield attributes in 100-coloured sorghum genotypes along with four checks viz., M 35-1, AKJ 1, Paiyur 2 and GS-23. High PCV and GCV were observed for grain yield per plant and neck of panicle followed by panicle weight, panicle width, panicle length, peduncle length and 100-grain weight. Similarly, high heritability coupled with high genetic advance as per cent of mean was observed for the characters viz., plant height, peduncle length, neck of panicle, panicle length, panicle width, panicle weight, 100 grain weight and grain yield per plant which shows that the heritability is due to additive gene effects and selection will be effective for these characters. Significant and positive correlation of grain yield per plant was observed with the characters viz., panicle weight, panicle width, plant height, days to 50 per cent flowering, days to maturity and 100-grain weight at both phenotypic and genotypic level. Among these characters panicle weight (r = 0.8796 and 0.9266) showed high magnitude of positive association at both level with grain yield compared to other characters. Path analysis study revealed that panicle weight had a high direct positive effect on grain yield per plant; panicle width, peduncle length, plant height, days to maturity and 100-grain weight were showed the low magnitude of positive direct effects on grain yield. As a result, the above mentioned characters will be used for selection for increasing grain yield in coloured sorghum genotypes.','Coloured sorghum, Variability, Genotypes, Heritability and Correlation','The present investigation revealed that the characters viz., panicle weight, days to maturity, plant height, panicle width and 100 grain weight had a direct positive effect and positive correlation on grain yield per plant. These characters panicle weight, grain yield per plant, panicle width and 100-grain weight also have high PCV and GCV coupled with high heritability and genetic advance as per cent of mean. Characters with high PCV and GCV coupled with high heritability and genetic advance as per cent of the mean will be of great utility in selecting the genotypes. Therefore, the aforesaid characters could be more promising to yield better hybrids in a further breeding programme and considered for selecting parental lines in a hybridization programme. In recent years coloured sorghum grain is gaining demand because of export potential for industrial use as red sorghum in brewing industries and yellow sorghum for weaning in baby foods.','-','Akshaykumar, Suvarna, P.H. Kuchanur, G. Girish and M. Lakshmikanth (2023). Genetic Variability and Correlation Study for Yield and Yield Attributes in Coloured Sorghum Genotypes. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 15(3): 397-403.'),(6343,'150','Floral Biology and Impact of Bee Pollination in Mango','Avinash Chauhan','Floral-Biology-and-Impact-of-Bee-Pollination-in-Mango-Avinash-Chauhan-63.pdf','',1,'Mango is very important fruit crop in Nagaland and is visited by large number of insect visitors. The faunal diversity and the true pollinators of mango in this region is not recorded scientifically with a very less data is available on this aspect of mango cultivation. Keeping in view the importance of insect fauna and to know the role of specific pollination in mango, an experiment was laid out with 4 different pollination treatments i.e. stingless bee (Tetragonula iridipennis) pollination, Apis cerana pollination, open pollination and pollinator exclusion (Control). Floral biology and pollinator’s diversity of mango was studied using standard methods. Trees were caged with insect proof nylon nets for pollination treatments in 3 replications. A total of 27 major insect visitors/ pollinators’ fauna species were recorded foraging on mango. The Shannon-Wiener diversity Index revealed higher pollinator diversity. Pollination Efficiency Index (PEI) for pollinators was also calculated. The maximum diurnal abundance of pollinators recorded between 0800-1200 h and the maximum foraging rate was found with syrphid flies and stingless bees. Floral biology showed that stigma remained receptive for more than 72 hours after anthesis. Yield and quality parameters under different modes of pollination revealed bee pollination was significantly superior over crop without pollination. Without pollination the yields and quality were too less in mango. The flies of Syrphidae and bees of genus Apidae were found as major pollinators of mango in this region. With these studies, the phenology of mango and its association with the nectarophiles is established. The impact of these pollinators on mango also worked out to ascertain the specific role of pollination in mango which will help the mango growers in increasing fruit production and conservation of pollinators.','Mango, Floral biology, Diversity index, Pollination Efficiency Index, Pollination, Stingless bees, Apis cerana, Open pollination, Impact, Production, Quality','In mango, 27 major insect visitor fauna species were recorded collecting nectar and pollen. Among these insect visitors, 14 major true insect pollinators’ species were observed foraging throughout the blooming period of mango. The Shannon-Wiener diversity Index of mango’s insect pollinator revealed higher diversity in this region. The syrphid flies, megachilid bees, honey bees, stingless bees and flies populations were abundant on mango flowers along with major portions of Apis and non-Apis bees and dipterans. The maximum diurnal abundance of pollinators recorded between 0800-1200 h and the maximum foraging rate was found with syrphid flies and stingless bees. In open pollination of crop, Syrphids and Megachilids are important pollinators. Floral biology of mango disclosed two different types of flowers with complex structure in panicles with stigma receptivity of 72 hours. Yield and quality parameters under different modes of pollination revealed bee pollination was superior over open pollination and without pollination. In open pollination of mango, for adequate pollination Diptera fauna should be conserved along with non Apis bees. Without pollination the yields and quality are too less in mango. The flies of Syrphidae and bees belong to genus Apidae were major true pollinators of mango. Thus, there is significant increase in yield obtained in open and bee pollinated treatments as compared to pollinator excluded treatments which infers that for increasing the yield pollination is highly required in mango. Stingless bees are alternative pollinators for managed pollination in mango.','-','Avinash Chauhan (2023). Floral Biology and Impact of Bee Pollination in Mango. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 15(3): 404-409.'),(6344,'150','Evaluation of Moisture content in Eco Holi Colours Stored in Hermetic Bag','Swetha Kodali, N. Prathyusha, S.L. Pooja, T. Kamalaja, R. Neela Rani and V. Vijaya Lakshmi ','Evaluation-of-Moisture-content-in-Eco-Holi-Colours-Stored-in-Hermetic-Bag-Swetha-Kodali-64.pdf','',1,'An important alternative to traditional storage techniques is the hermetic bag. It is airtight and blocks the exchange of moisture with the surroundings. In traditional storage procedures, insect infestation was enhanced by increased moisture, high temperature, and relative humidity. Germination and storage loss can be minimized, and quality and viability can be maintained, using a hermetic bag. A replacement for conventional technologies was the hermetic bag. The stored orange and yellow color was not maintaining the moisture content in control group when compared to experimental group. The results indicated that experimental bag was maintaining 80 per cent of moisture content of colors than control bag, which revealed that, a significant relationship exist among moisture content of colors (Green, Pink and Blue) and efficiency of hermetic bag. The storage of green, pink and blue colors was found suitable for hermetic bag than control bag. It states that except yellow, the four remaining Holi colors were suitable for storing in hermetic bag when compared to normal control bag. These bags were also helpful to store different kinds of seeds/grains and cost-effective to use.','Color, color infestation, storage, hermetic bag, insects, moisture content','From the above study it was concluded that, the hermetic bag offered an alternative to conventional technologies. The stored orange and yellow color was not maintaining the moisture content in control group when compared to experimental group. The results indicated that experimental bag was maintaining 80 per cent of moisture content of colors than control bag, which revealed that, there exist a significant relationship between moisture content of colors (Green, Pink and Blue) and efficiency of hermetic bag. The storage of green, pink and blue colors was found maintaining moisture compared to orange and yellow in hermetic bag than control bag. ','-','Swetha Kodali, N. Prathyusha, S.L. Pooja, T. Kamalaja, R. Neela Rani and V. Vijaya Lakshmi (2023). Evaluation of Moisture content in Eco Holi Colours Stored in Hermetic Bag. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 15(3): 410-412.'),(6345,'148','Embryo Rescue: Tool to Overcome Interspecific Barrier in Solanaceae Crops','Prashant Sharma, A.R. Kurubar, B.V. Thembhurne and Anusha','Embryo Rescue Tool to Overcome Interspecific Barrier in Solanaceae Crops-Prashant Sharma-106.pdf','',1,'Embryo rescue, also known as embryo culture, is an in vitro technique frequently employed in horticulture crops to save hybrid results of fertilization that would otherwise deteriorate. In embryo culture operations, the artificial nutrient medium replaces the endosperm, allowing the embryo to continue developing. Laibach demonstrated the first successful embryo culture to produce an interspecific hybrid between Linumperenne and L. austriacum. Several improvements have been achieved since then in embryo culture/embryo rescue procedures, which have been a popular approach for generating hybrids from a variety of incompatible crossings. Currently, embryo rescue shows enormous promise not just for wide crossings, but also for producing plants from essentially poor embryos, producing haploid plants, and shortening the breeding cycle. This review presents application of embryo rescue that is being used in Solanaceae crops for overcoming different interspecific pre- and post-barrier which is important resistant to different abiotic and biotic stresses.','Embryo rescue, Fertilization barrier, Hybrids, Interspecific barrier, Solanaceae','In this study, we survey the literature regarding methods used to prevent embryo degeneration and to obtain viable interspecific plants from embryos. In spite of the fact that embryo rescue has not been used in many field trials, and how much plant material of agricultural and horticultural value has actually been generated. There is a large potential for rescuing desired embryos that would otherwise degenerate with the embryo rescue technique, as it is simple to use and possesses a wide range of potential applications. A plant tissue culture laboratory usually has the necessary facilities for this technique. Nevertheless, certain constraints are relevant under suboptimal conditions. On other hand, perennial plants are easier to handle as they can be kept in laboratories, transplanted at any time of the year, and acclimated until they become hardy enough to survive in nature or domestication.','-','Prashant Sharma, A.R. Kurubar, B.V. Thembhurne and Anusha (2023). Embryo Rescue: Tool to Overcome Interspecific Barrier in solanaceae Crops. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 15(3): 657-662.'),(6346,'77','Compact MIMO Antenna with High Isolation for Wireless Applications','Anjali A. Chaudhari and Rajiv K. Gupta','172 Compact MIMO Antenna with High Isolation for Wireless Applications.pdf','',1,'Compact MIMO Antenna with High Isolation for Wireless Applications','Compact antenna, high isolation, MIMO, monopole antenna, triband, multiple-input-multiple-output.','A two element triband MIMO antenna with high isolation is presented. The multibranched monopoles symmetrically placed 0.077λo apart, over the design simplicity. The three ground stubs integrated to the ground plane between the two elements not only decreases the size of antenna but also improves the isolation. S11 <-10 dB and S12 < -22 dB is obtained over the three bands that over GSM900, GSM1800 and WiMax services. Descent agreement is achieved between the simulation and the measured results of developed prototype. Furthermore, the ECC, MEG and Diversity Gain are within the allowable limits that certify the MIMO suitability of the proposed antenna.','-','Anjali A. Chaudhari and Rajiv K. Gupta (2020). Compact MIMO Antenna with High Isolation for Wireless Applications. International Journal on Emerging Technologies, 11(3): 1212–1216.'),(6347,'81','Compact MIMO Antenna for UWB Application','Anjali A. Chaudhari and Rajiv K. Gupta','79 Compact MIMO Antenna for UWB Application.pdf','',1,'In this paper, a compact multiple-input-multiple-output (MIMO) antenna for ultra-wideband (UWB)and GSM applications is proposed. The antenna features two identical monopoles placed 0.08λ0distance apart and inhabits70 mm × 60 mm board range. Each monopoleelement comprises of a rectangular arm and two semicircular rings which independently control0.85GHz -1.1GHz and 2.5GHz -14.5GHz bands respectively. Isolation of more than22 dB is achieved by integrating three stubs in the ground plane. The structure exhibits stable gain and radiation patterns. Various performance metrics including envelope correlation coefficient (ECC), diversity gain (DG), total active reflection coefficient (TARC) and mean effective gain (MEG) are evaluated which observe the MIMO standards. The proposed structure has a nearly constant group delay over the operating bands. ','Ultra-Wideband (UWB), compact antenna, GSM band, high isolation, MIMO antenna.','A compact dual element monopole MIMO antenna offering GSM service band (0.85GHz - 1.1GHz) and UWB (2.5GHz -14.5GHz) arbitrated by |S11| < -10 dB is implemented on a low cost PCB substrate. High isolation of about 22 dB over the operating bands is obtained using unequal length stubs. The proposed low profile antenna with an electrical size of 0.19λo ×0.17λo offers impedance bandwidth of 22.8% and 141% over the dual operating bands. ','-','Anjali A. Chaudhari and Rajiv K. Gupta (2020). Compact MIMO Antenna for UWB Application. International Journal on Emerging Technologies, 11(4): 539–543.'),(6348,'82','UWB Antenna for Biomedical Application','Anjali A. Chaudhari','109 UWB Antenna for Biomedical Application.pdf','',1,'Wireless capsule endoscopy provides visualization of the GI tract by transmitting images wirelessly from a disposable capsule to a data recorder worn by the patient. The first capsule model for the small intestine was developed by Given Imaging and approved in Western countries and approved by the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) in 2001. Over subsequent years, this technology has been refined to provide superior resolution, increased battery life, and capabilities to view different parts of the GI tract. Before the introduction of capsule endoscopy (CE) and double-balloon endoscopy (DBE) , there was no effective modality for the evaluation and management of patients with obscure GI bleeding. Obscure GI bleeding is defined as bleeding of unknown origin that persists or recurs after a negative initial or primary endoscopy (colonoscopy or upper endoscopy) result. The first capsule endoscope model, which is now regarded as a first-line tool for the detection of abnormalities of the small bowel, was the PillCam SB. Our project aims to increase the speed of transmission and optimise the antenna to work within the permissible SAR limits as specified by the FCC.','Ultra-Wideband (UWB), compact antenna, Endoscopy.','This paper explains the working of the capsule endoscopy and the process of finding out how the antenna works in different conditions due to being ingested in the human body. In HFSS, the patch of the antenna was placed within different shaped models representing the organs in the GI tract and the different layers of human tissues such as muscle. During the simulation of the patch, some results showed that simulations as expected for biomedical application.','-','Anjali A. Chaudhari (2020). UWB Antenna for Biomedical Application. International Journal on Emerging Technologies, 11(5): 743–745.'),(6349,'150','Efficacy of Botanical Extracts on Early Blight Disease (Alternaria solani) in Tomato (Solanum lycopersicum L.)','Kajol Kumari, Abhilasha A. Lal, Sneha Shikha and Rohit Maurya','Efficacy-of-Botanical-Extracts-on-Early-Blight-Disease-(Alternaria-solani)-in-Tomato-(Solanum-lycopersicum-L.)-Rohit Maurya-65.pdf','',1,'Tomato having botanical name Solanum lycopersicum L. belongs to family Solanaceace which is one of the widely grown vegetables in the world. Early blight disease caused by Alternaria solani is one of the commonly found pathogen in tomato. It becomes wide spread and serious disease causing large economic loss at every stage of plant development. To reduce the use of chemical fungicides and its negative impact on environment and soil health, the management has been made to evaluate the effect of selected botanical leaf extracts in vivo during Rabi 2020-2021. Selected botanical leaf extracts viz., neem, eucalyptus, calotropis, datura at 5% concentration and mancozeb @0.2% were tested against the pathogen for their efficacy against the disease, plant growth and yield parameters. Among the all treatments, it was found that the plant height (28.84cm), number of leaves per plant (24.197) and yield (42.61 qha-1) significantly increased at 75 DAT in the treatment T2 - eucalyptus leaf extract. The disease intensity (%) (41.36%) significantly decreased in the treatment T2. Higher gross return value (Rs. 84,368 ha-1), net return value (Rs. 55,164 ha-1) and B:C ratio (2.89) was also found in the treatment T2-eucalyptus leaf extract @5% as compared to T5 -mancozeb and T0-control.','Alternaria solani, early blight, calotropis, datura, eucalyptus, neem, tomato','In vivo results revealed that the minimum disease intensity (%) in tomato at 45, 60 and 75 DAT, maximum plant height (cm) at 45, 60 and 75 DAT, maximum number of leaves per plant, maximum yield (qha-1) and higher gross return value, net return value and B:C ratio was recorded in treatment T4 – eucalyptus leaf extracts @ 5%. Since chemicals have many detrimental effects on the environment as well as the human health, they would be viewed as better as they are eco-friendly and may also be supplied to the farmers for the efficient treatment of early blight disease of tomato. The findings of the present experiment are restricted to one crop season (December 2020 to March 2021) under Prayagraj agro-climatic condition, as such to confirm the present findings more such experiments need be carried out in future. ','-','Kajol Kumari, Abhilasha A. Lal, Sneha Shikha and Rohit Maurya (2023). Efficacy of Botanical Extracts on Early Blight Disease (Alternaria solani) in Tomato (Solanum lycopersicum L.). Biological Forum – An International Journal, 15(3): 413-416.'),(6350,'150','Machine Learning-based Crop Recommendation System in Biswanath District of Assam','Samikhya Bhuyan, Dilip Kumar Patgiri, Simanta Jyoti Medhi, Roopali Patel and Tabuiliu Abonmai ','Machine-Learning-based-Crop-Recommendation-System-in-Biswanath-District-of-Assam-Samikhya-Bhuyan-66.pdf','',1,'The present study makes attempt to formulate a crop recommendation system based on soil physical property. The study was undertaken in the Biswanath district of Assam which is situated 26°35\' to 27°00\' of latitude and 92°50\' to 93°50\' of longitude, with a total area of 14,15,000 ha. The 180 soil samples were collected from different location and physical properties were analyzed in laboratory using standard protocol. The selected physical properties includes soil texture, bulk density, particle density, total porosity, hydraulic conductivity, maximum water holding capacity, volume expansion, field capacity, permanent wilting point, available water, microaggregate, macroaggregate and mean weight diameter. The coefficient of variation (CV) was used for interpretation of variability of the soil properties. Silt, clay, hydraulic conductivity, were identified to be the most variable soil indicators (CV > 35%). Available water was found as the moderately variable parameters (CV 15–35%). The least variation (CV < 15) were found in bulk density, particle density, total porosity, field capacity, mean weight diameter, microaggregate, macroaggregte and volume expansion. The results of the physical properties were fit in the machine learning model and a farmer’s friendly crop recommendation system was developed.','Crop recommendation system, Physical property, coefficient of variation, Mean weight','In Assam\'s Biswanath District, crop recommendation systems was forecasted using machine learning techniques. The crop recommendation system utilized application of the “decision tree classifier model”. The model\'s accuracy was almost 94%. A web application is being created to link the model. This application presents the model to the user. The study recommends that farmers can change the type of crop planted in their field during various season depending on the physical properties of the soil in order to minimize crop failure.','-','Samikhya Bhuyan, Dilip Kumar Patgiri, Simanta Jyoti Medhi, Roopali Patel and Tabuiliu Abonmai (2023). Machine Learning-based Crop Recommendation System in Biswanath District of Assam. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 15(3): 417-421.'),(6351,'150','Antimicrobial Potential of Plants Pedalium murex (Linn) and \r\nBryophyllum daigremontianum\r\n','Prakash Shoba S., Sakthivel G., Punitha A. and Anitha C.','Antimicrobial-Potential-of-Plants-Pedalium-murex-(Linn)-and-Bryophyllum-daigremontianum-Prakash-Shoba-S-67.pdf','',1,'The present investigation has been undertaken to assess the antimicrobial potential of plants Pedalium murex (L). Leaf and seed extract and Bryophyllum daigremontianum leaf and flower extract. The leaf and seed extracts of P. murex Linn and the leaf and flower extracts of B. daigremontianum were well-ground into a fine powder and kept at room temperature in airtight polythene bags. Plant material was extracted using the percolation method in 2 ml of methanol, ethanol, and acetone solutions, respectively. The disc diffusion method was used to test antimicrobial activity against Gram-positive bacteria such as Staphylococcus aureus, Streptococcus mutans, Bacillus cereus, Bacillus subtilis, and Gram-negative bacteria such as Klebsiella pneumonia, Proteus mirabilis, E. coli, and Pseudomonas aeruginosa. B. cereus was inhibited effectively by P. murex (L) leaf ethanol extract and P. aeruginosa was effectively inhibited by a methanol extract of P. murex (L) seed. The ethanol extract of B. daigremontianum flower and leaf showed promising antimicrobial activity against all the tested bacterial cultures. The ethanol leaf extract of B. daigremontianum has the highest antimicrobial activity against S. aureus, and the ethanol flower extract of B. daigremontianum has the highest inhibition activity against B. subtilis bacterial culture. The challenge of thecurrent study aimed to investigate the antimicrobial potential of P. murex (L) and B. daigremontianum by using different solvents. Overall, the findings indicate that P. murex (L) and B. daigremontianum could be used as alternative antimicrobial drugs against uro-pathogenic bacteria, as well as a treatment for kidney stone management by dissolving the struvite stone in the kidney. ','Antimicrobial activity, Antibacterial activity, Kidney stones, Pedalium murex; Bryophyllum daigremontianum','This research may hold great promise for the discovery of novel medications to combat antibiotic resistance in uro-pathogens. In order to find the leads with antibacterial activity, additional research on the chemical properties of the extract is currently being conducted. ','-','Prakash Shoba S., Sakthivel G., Punitha A. and Anitha C. (2023). Antimicrobial Potential of Plants Pedalium murex (Linn) and Bryophyllum daigremontianum. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 15(3): 422-429.'),(6352,'150','Blood Performance, Enzymatic Alteration and Recovery study on Heteropneustes fossilis (Bloch) Exposed to Pyrethroids','B. Mahanta, D. Kusre and A.Q. Osmani','Blood-Performance,-Enzymatic-Alteration-and-Recovery-study-on-Heteropneustes-fossilis-(Bloch)-Exposed-to-Pyrethroids-B-Mahanta-68.pdf','',1,'Population explosion and industrial domination in third world countries like India, is the major cause for hazardous damage of ecosystem, especially aquatic ecosystem and aquatic organisms. From agricultural field and house hold wastes containing pesticides released in the waterbodies directly or indirectly is highly responsible for water pollution. The polluted water caries different health hazards to the body of aquatic organisms. The hazards maybe either physiological, biochemical or behavioural, which can directly impact on the health status of aquatic organism. Cat fish like H. fossilis, C. magur are considered as a pure source of protein and nutrition among low-income group of this country and such kind of biohazards not only disrupt their nutritional value of food fishes, it also disrupts the ecological balance. The present study, is aimed to investigate Blood performance and biochemical studies in the Liver, Kidney and Gill tissue of Heteropneustes fossilis (Bloch) (e.g. H. fossilis) exposed a potential pesticide Pyrethroid. Different hematological parameters were determined by using blood samples from control and treated groups and analyzed. For enzymatic study tissues like Live, Kidney and Gills obtained from both control and treated groups were analyzed by using enzyme kits. Student’s t test is use to compare the statistical data. Using MS excel all data are interpreted in bar diagram. Altered blood cell count, increased value of aberrant cell count, increased amount of micronuclei formation was found due to the effect of Pyrethroid. Significant increase in ACP and Glutathione-S-Transferase (GST) activity was recorded in the result. In the recovery period the GST values were recorded almost normal like the control group. The hazardous effect of pyrethroid was seen in both cellular level and enzymatic level in this study and found that it can disturbed normal blood physiology as well as behavioural and enzymatic stability. ','Micronuclei, Haematotoxicity, Acid phosphatase, Glutathione-S-transferase, H. fossilis','Water pollution due to the use of agricultural and industrial insecticides are very common now a days. These uses benefitted the farmer for only a particular period of time. But the hazards produced by this chemical remain in the environment for decades and harming the ecosystem and showing health hazards to the aquatic organism. Due to biomagnification this hazard transferred to the human bodies too. Therefore, it is the high time to opt for new biodegradable, high effective and low hazardous component for our agricultural as well as industrial yield.','-','B. Mahanta, D. Kusre and A.Q. Osmani (2023). Blood Performance, Enzymatic Alteration and Recovery study on Heteropneustes fossilis (Bloch) Exposed to Pyrethroids. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 15(3): 430-435.'),(6353,'147','Evaluation of Salt Tolerance in Ten different Rice Genotypes at Seedling Stage','A. Mohanty, N. Sahu, R. Mishra and C. Patra','Evaluation-of-Salt-Tolerance-in-Ten-different-Rice-Genotypes-at-Seedling-Stage-A-Mohanty-117.pdf','',1,'Initially 10 rice genotypes were evaluated for their tolerance response to salt tolerance at seedling stage in rabi 2019 in the net house of ICAR-NRRI, Cuttack. Amongst all FL478 was found to have least reduction in plant vigour and biomass followed by AC41585 and AC39416A. While some genotypes like Rashpanjor, CSR27 and Binadhan 8 were considered as moderately tolerant with a SES score of 5 and moderate retention of leaf water potential and plant dry matter. But susceptible genotypes like IR29 (check), Sabita and Sadri were observed to have highest reduction in vigour and biomass. Higher accumulation of noxious amount of Na+ inside the leaf mesophyll cell hampered the chlorophyll pigment concentration in the susceptible genotypes. But maintaining lower Na+ and high retention of K+ helps some tolerant genotypes (FL478, AC41585 and AC39416A) to survive the salt stress in seedling stage. From this study, we conclude that an efficient management of noxious Na+ ion in the photosynthetic tissue helps to render greater salt tolerance in early growth stages.','Salt stress, SES Score, Na+, and K+ concentration, chlorophyll concentration','Hence it can be concluded that, genotypes (FL478, AC41585 and AC39416A) with least Na+ accumulation and maximum retention of K+ were able to retain integrity of photosynthestic pigments (chlorophyll) and able to maintain a stability in ionic homeostasis inside the actively growing plant tissues even under salinity. On the other hand susceptible genotypes (IR29 and Sabita) failed to do so hamper the overall plant vigour and bio mass retention. ','-','A. Mohanty, N. Sahu, R. Mishra and C. Patra (2022). Evaluation of Salt Tolerance in Ten different Rice Genotypes at Seedling Stage. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 14(4a): 681-686.'),(6354,'150','Alternaria Blight – A Serious Affliction of Rapeseed Mustard: A Review','Mithilesh Kumar Pandey, Malik M. Ahmad, Saba Siddiqui, Akshay Kumar and Sandeep Kumar Singh','Alternaria-Blight–A-Serious-Affliction-of-Rapeseed-Mustard-A-Review-Akshay-Kumar-69.pdf','',1,'Rapeseed mustard is an important oilseed crop which dominates the world of oilseed after the soybean. Alternaria blight is the global headache of crop scientists, it can reduce yield by up to 70%. Currently, 50% of rapeseed yield is lost due to Alternaria blight around the globe. This disease is mainly caused by two fungal organisms- Alternaria brassicae and Alternaria brassicicola. These infections don\'t have reproductive stages and live as conidia or conidiospores on the remains of previous crops and vulnerable weeds. These are necrotrophic pathogens. The illness initially manifests as a black spot but subsequently grows larger and transforms into noticeable spherical patches with concentric rings. Many spots coalesce to form large patches showing blight and cause defoliation in severe cases, in the stem and pod areas circular to linear lesions may be found which elongate later. Small, discoloured, and shrivelled seeds are produced by infected pods. Reduced photosynthetic potential, early defoliation, flower bud abortion, premature ripening, siliquae dehiscence, seed shrivelling and reduced seed size, impairs seed colour, and reduced oil content are some of the factors that contribute to this disease\'s significant yield losses. In this review, we’ll discuss the Alternaria blight taxonomy, economic importance, habitat, host range, pathogenicity, survival, symptoms and management. It would be helpful to find the impact of Alternaria disease on the mustard crops. ','Rapeseed-mustard, Alternaria blight, symptoms, pathogenicity, management, breeding','Pathogenic Alternaria species are global and severe, making Alternaria leaf blight the most destructive disease of oilseed brassicas worldwide. Alteraria blight reduces the quality and quantity of oilseed brassica harvests, and no resistant crop species have been found. However, coenospecies (wild species) of Brassicas such B. desnottesi, C. sativa, C. pseuderucastrum, D. berthauti, D. catholica, D. cretacea, D. erucoides, and E. gallicum were entirely resistant to A. brassica. Other techniques might handle Alternaria leaf blight as grown Brassicas lack resilience.\r\nFungicides are widely utilised. Despite their widespread usage against infections, fungicides pose substantial health risks and pollute the environment. Thus, moderately resistant cultivars, plant and natural products, bio-control agents, and agronomic changes are increasingly prioritised for disease management since they are more cost-effective, eco-friendly, and safe.\r\n','-','Mithilesh Kumar Pandey, Malik M. Ahmad, Saba Siddiqui and Akshay Kumar (2023). Alternaria Blight – A Serious Affliction of Rapeseed Mustard: A Review. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 15(2): 436-443.'),(6355,'150','Phytochemical Screening and Biological activities of Eleusine indica leaf extract','B. Jone Magadelin, S. Ajith Sinthuja and S. Jameer Ahamed','Phytochemical-Screening-and-Biological-activities-of-Eleusine-indica-leaf-extract-B-Jone-Magadelin-70.pdf','',1,'The presence of secondary metabolites in medicinal plants is useful for healing as well as for curing human diseases. Most of the synthetic drugs being marketed have more vulnerable side effects, which in turn creates some biological and environmental collisions when discarding the expired pharmaceutical synthetic products. Nowadays, traditional approaches are emerging for the treatment of several diseases and disorders using medicinal plant extracts. The current study was anticipated to appraise the secondary metabolites and their capabilities by means of crude ethanolic leaf extracts of Eleusine indica. For phytochemical screening, customary procedures were used, considering Mayer’s test, the shinoda test, the salkowski test, the Keller-Killiani test, and the foam test, which were worn to determine total alkaloids, flavonoids, steroids, glycosides, and saponins. Radical scavenging DPPH and the nitric oxide scavenging assay were used to appraise anti-oxidant activity. Antimicrobial activity was determined using a standard disc diffusion assay, while cytotoxicity was determined using MCF-7 cell lines. FT-IR spectroscopy was employed to collect spectral details. Alkaloids, flavonoids, steroids, glycosides, and saponins were inspected positively in the preliminary phytochemical screening. TFC, TAC, and TSC\'s in leaf extracts obtained were 26.4 mg/ml, 20.58 mg/ml, 36.0 mg/ml, and 283.8 mg/ml, respectively. The DPPH free radical scavenging activity of the ethanolic extract of Eleusine indica showed 82.25% (100 μg/ml). The crude extract\'s maximum in-vitro nitric oxide scavenging activity was 40.54% at 100 g concentration. In Pseudomonas aeruginosa, the maximum zone of inhibition was found to be 16 mm, and maximum cytotoxicity with an IC50 value of 85.09% by Eleusine indica were the best calculated values. This work rationalizes the use of secondary metabolites and their plausible action against microbes for the unfolding of new drugs. In the future, distinctive in vivo and in vitro consanguineous studies can be accomplished in addition to examining its western medical applications.','Phytochemical profiling, Eleusine indica, Anti-oxidant, Anti-bacterial, Cytotoxicity, FT-IR, Molecular docking','Medicinal plants are considered as important source of promising bioactive compounds. The quantitative analysis of the leaves of Eleusine indica shows the highest steroid content. Phytochemical qualitative analysis was analysed to exhibit the existence of number of secondary metabolites in per capita sample. The preliminary data of the bouncing compounds present in the leaves of Eleusine indica was accountable for in-vitro norcotic activity. FT-IR Spectra validated the existence of functional groups that exist in secondary metabolites. In the present study, the leaves of Eleusine indica contain distinctive secondary metabolites which have anti-oxidative and consanguineous potential. The cytotoxic activity for maxima indicated the polar nature of bouncing components existed in the leaf extract. Overall, the crude extracts, though belong to varied families, they are prospective contender in the province of drug enlargement. Thus, in-vitro studies signified that folkaric medicine can be as efficacious as contemporary medicine to battle pathogenic microorganisms. From the current study, manifestation of the efficacy of the plant leaves obtained from conventional healers gave a clear cut-out. These results from the existing study can lay out the outline for refined justification of biologically active components and open on to extra secondary metabolites exploration.','-','B. Jone Magadelin, S. Ajith Sinthuja and S. Jameer Ahamed (2023). Phytochemical Screening and Biological activities of Eleusine indica leaf extract. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 15(3): 444-449.'),(6356,'150','Phenological Property Consideration for Crop and Weed Discrimination Technologies: A Review','Jyoti Lahre','Phenological-Property-Consideration-for-Crop-and-Weed-Discrimination-Technologies-A-Review-Jyoti-Lahre-71.pdf','',1,'Unwanted plants grow non-uniformly, autonomously in the field, and compete with the major crop called weeds. It competes with the main crop for sunlight, nutrients, water, and space and grows faster. These effects affect the growth rate of crop seedlings, eventually resulting in crop yield reduction. Weed control is very critical to crop production. Several studies have examined the yield loss associated with weed competition. Due to the phenotypic similarity between some crops and weeds as well as changing weather conditions, it is challenging to identify and design an automated system for general weed detection. Many research studies documented various weed discrimination, identification, and control techniques. These recognition mechanisms could be mechanical or physical for intra-row weeding. Image segmentation, height/stalk identification, machine vision systems, sensor-based approaches, RTK-GPS based systems, etc. It is better to control weeds effectively. These advancing technologies promise agriculture improvement with fewer labor-intensive tasks. The more challenging area of intra-row mechanical weeding with manually operated weed control is labor-intensive and time-taking. Along with various discrimination solutions for weed control discovered in industry and the research community, the state of the art in automated mechanical weeding is being explored. An automated technique includes data acquisition and processing. Data processing includes typical plants’ morphological trait extraction and estimation based on a multi-level region segmentation method. Automatic morphological traits are compared with manually measured values. The proposed method\'s robustness and low time cost for different plants, show potential applications for real-time plant measurement and high-throughput plant phenotyping. In this paper, we study different methods or techniques for weed recognition.','Crop production, recognition mechanism, RTK-GPS, morphological trait, segmentation, plant phenotyping','Weed identification and removing is major challenge for intra row crop field. Most of weeds have same characteristics of main crop plant, which is major problem for site specific weed management. In farmer’s point of view, the reduction of herbicide uses by different intercultural practices, and investment in relative expensive and complex equipment, without an expectation of increased yield, there should be an acceptable technology used. The main benefits are the savings in production means (herbicide costs) and improved autonomy. Therefore, the introduction of new systems needs to be properly supported and maintained in order to successfully introduce them to farmers. The image segmentation, color and shape identification, active shape models and UAV imagery are satisfactory at their work. Height and stalk location are complex but precise at results. Ground-level sensors offer very high spatial resolution, and therefore the potential ability to apply classification to classes comprising only one plant species It appears possible that small innovative companies may be the primary source of new weed management technology in the future. Based on the vast improvements in robotics and processing, it would appear that the future of automation in weed control is very promising. Given the high-level performance in this paper, it was demonstrated that the reviewed methods are suitable for the ground-based weed identification in vegetable plantation under various conditions, including varied illumination, complex backgrounds as well as various growth stages and has application value for the sustainable development of the vegetable industry. Future work will be conducted to identify weeds in in-situ videos. Meanwhile, it would also be interesting to evaluate the accuracy reached in the detection of vegetables by optimizing the deep learning model.','-','Jyoti Lahre (2023). Phenological Property Consideration for Crop and Weed Discrimination Technologies: A Review. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 15(3): 450-465.'),(6357,'150','Evaluation of Promising Fungicides, Bio-control Agents and Neem Cake in vivo against Fusarium oxysporum f.sp. ciceri causing Wilt Disease in Chickpea (Cicer arietinum L.)','Kamlesh Charpota, R.N. Bunker, Abhinav, Nitisha Gahlot and N.L. Meena','Evaluation-of-Promising-Fungicides,-Bio-control-Agents-and-Neem-Cake-in-vivo-Against-Fusarium-oxysporum-f.sp.-ciceri-causing-Wilt-Disease-in-Chickpea-(Cicer-arietinum-L.)-Kamlesh-Charpota-72.pdf','',1,'Chick pea wilt is considered as one of the most important disease of tomato in field. In present study fungicides and bio-agent and neem cake were combined evaluated for their efficacy against the Fusarium wilt of chickpea. Under in vivo it was observed that Carbendazim 50% WP @ 0.1% (ST) + Neem cake @ 500gm /sqm (SA) + T. viride@ 2% (SA) was found best effective compare to other treatments at 75 days percent plant mortality (12.90), percent wilt control (80.31) whereas followed by Carbendazim 50% WP @ 0.1% (ST) +T. viride-5@ 2% (SA) at 75 days percent plant mortality (16.00), percent wilt control (75.57). Application of bio control agents and neem oil cake will be an alternative to synthetic chemicals to control wilt of chickpea. ','Fusarium wilt, Chickpea, T. viride, Bio-gents, neem cake','In present study the antagonism activity of Trichoderma viride with neem cake found to be highly effective against F. oxysporum f.sp. ciceri under in vivo conditions. In the integrated disease management under field conditions, treatment combination of Carbendazim 50 WP (ST) + T. viride (SA) + neem cake (SA) recorded maximum per cent wilt control. Therefore, management of Fusarium wilt we should follow strategies that combine the use of additive or synergistic combinations of chemical, cultural and biotic control measures. ','-','Kamlesh Charpota, R.N. Bunker, Abhinav, Nitisha Gahlot and N.L. Meena (2023). Evaluation of Promising Fungicides, Bio-control Agents and Neem Cake in vivo against Fusarium oxysporum f.sp. ciceri causing Wilt Disease in Chickpea (Cicer arietinum L.). Biological Forum – An International Journal, 15(3): 466-470.'),(6358,'150','RP-HPLC Method Development and Validation for Determination of Metformin and Vildagliptin in Tablet Dosage Form','Godge R.K., Dhanvate G.S., Shinde G.S. and Mankar S.D.','RP-HPLC-Method-Development-and-Validation-for-Determination-of-Metformin-and-Vildagliptin-in-Tablet-Dosage-Form-Rahul-Godge-73.pdf','',1,'Analytical method development involves screening various column and eluent conditions, method optimization includes iterative testing of various separation conditions of the HPLC method and is performed to achieve the best possible resolution, speed, and reproducibility, robustness testing and method validation.\r\nThis study aimed to develop fast, accurate, linear, sensitive and efficient high performance liquid chromatography [RP-HPLC] Methods for determining metformin and vildagliptin in pharmaceutical dosage forms. Chromatographic separation on a chromasil-C18 column [4.5 × 250 mm; 5 Î¼m] with a mobile phase consisting of methanol: 0.1% orthophosphoric acid (80:20) adjusted to pH 4 with orthophosphoric acid. The flow is 0.7ml/min, detection wavelength is 206nm. The peak retention times of the chromatographic conditions, metformin and vildagliptin were 1.87 min and 2.54 min, respectively. The method has been validated according to ICH Q2 R1 guidelines. Calibration curves for metformin and vildagliptin were found to be linear over the concentration ranges of 2-30μg/ml and 1-15μg/ml/ml. The detection and assay limits for Metformin and vildagliptin were established at 0.21 μg/ml/ml and 0.65 μg/ml, 0.09 μg/ml/ml and 65 μg/ml respectively. A new sensitive and simple method of reversed-phase high performance liquid chromatography [RP-HPLC] has been developed and validated for the determination of metformin and vildagliptin. This method can be used for routine dosing of vildagliptin and metformin.\r\n','Metformin, Method validation, Reverse phase high performance liquid chromatography, vildagliptin','The study presented in describes a new RP-HPLC method for estimating MTF and VGL combinations in mixtures using single mobile phases with low buffer concentrations compared to reported methods. The method provided good resolution between the two compounds with short analysis times (<10 minutes). The method has been verified to be simple, sensitive, accurate and precise. The recoveries indicated that the method was not interfered with by the excipients used in the formulation. Therefore, this method can be used for routine analysis of MTF and VGL in compound dosage forms.','-','Godge R.K., Dhanvate G.S., Shinde G.S. and Mankar S.D. (2023). RP-HPLC Method Development and Validation for Determination of Metformin and Vildagliptin in Tablet Dosage Form. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 15(3): 471-474.'),(6359,'150','Genetics of Abiotic Stress Tolerance in Plants: Concept and Research Trends','Mohit Sharma and Parul Gupta','Genetics-of-Abiotic-Stress-Tolerance-in-Plants-Concept-and-Research-Trends-Parul-Gupta-74.pdf','',1,'Abiotic environmental stresses pose a threat to food availability in future as they may lessen farming output to only 20% or even less of the farm’s inherent yields. Crop failure is mostly caused by abiotic pressures including salinity of soil, moisture stress, chilling and toxicity of heavy minerals which prevent crops from reaching their innate genetic capacity. The effect of excess salt, dryness and toxicity of heavy minerals put adverse effect on cells by upsetting their ionic and osmotic balance while chilling induces mechanical restrain to biological phospholipid membrane. Responses to abiotic pressures mediated by a variety of molecular signaling mechanisms. For crop development, it is crucial to comprehend molecular signaling networks and identify critical compounds and their specialized functions. A number of genes that code for antioxidants, enzymes that alter phospholipids of biological membrane, stress responsive transcription factors(TFS), Ion (Ca+2) homeostasis controlling cellular proteins, HSPS, and enzymes that consolidate significant compounds which are responsive to stress have been identified as being responsible for endurance of abiotic pressures. Several different methods have been employed to enhance the stress resistance of various farm species, including conventional breeding techniques, shuttle breeding and mutagenesis. The present scenario of climate change demands a better level of tolerance or resistance in future varieties. Advanced breeding approaches such as GWAS, GS, Genome editing might open up new possibilities for cultivating plants that can adjust to a rapidly changing environment and still providing good yields in the face of extreme environmental stress. In this article, we will converse about the consequences of prominent abiotic pressures as well as behavior of plant to various external stresses as regards of physiology and breeding approaches used to achieve resistance or tolerance to them.','Abiotic stress, GWAS, GS, HSPS, Genome editing, Mutagenesis','Ensuring food security for huge population in era of climate change is one of the biggest obstacles for agriculture scientist. Crops are being exposed to extreme weather conditions like moisture stress, excessive temperature, and salinity more frequently as the climate becomes more unpredictably unstable. These environmental stressors can drastically lower crop yields, endangering the availability of food. Plant breeders are using a variety of approaches to develop crops that can withstand these stressors. Current and rapidly developing technologies such as MAS, GWAS, GS, Genome editing will greatly accelerate the evolution of improved designer abiotic stresses-tolerant crops. The integration of these advanced approaches with each other or with conventional techniques is one way to improve the productivity in stressed condition. However, breeding for abiotic stress tolerance in plants is a complex and challenging process. The genetic basis of stress tolerance is often complex, and it can be difficult to identify the specific genes or gene networks involved. In addition, breeding for stress tolerance can sometimes result in unintended consequences, such as reduced yield or changes in plant morphology. Considering these challenges, a deeper comprehension of plant stress response and tolerance mechanisms is critically required. This comprehension study will help us to design climate-resilient crops for the future. ','-','Mohit Sharma and Parul Gupta (2023). Genetics of Abiotic Stress Tolerance in Plants: Concept and Research Trends. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 15(3): 475-484.'),(6360,'150','Purchase Patterns Adopted Forlip Care Products by Women in Hyderabad City','Velivelli Vijaya Lakshmi, Varnam Radhika and Geeta Munje','Purchase-Patterns-Adopted-Forlip-Care-Products-by-Women-in-Hyderabad-City-Velivelli-Vijaya-Lakshmi-75.pdf','',1,'Globalization and urbanization instilled the consciousness about usage of cosmetics among all age groups. People are becoming concerned about preconizing the cosmetics for each body part. Western culture is over riding the habits of eastern people to in taking care of eyes, face, skin, nail and lips with respective cosmetic products. The present study was taken up with the aim to know the women buying pattern towards lip care products in Hyderabad city by adopting ex post facto research design. A total of 120 women respondents were selected by using simple random sampling technique. Chi-square test was done to know the association between independent and dependent variables. Results revealed that maximum number of respondents had spent below 500 Rs. on lip care products and had purchased from cosmetic store followed by shopping mall, cooperative stores, online shopping and least preferred was door to door sale. Most of the respondents preferred to purchase cosmetics on cash payment. Nearly one third of the respondents had purchased chemical products. A significant association between the age and brand preference for lip care cosmetic products.','Cosmetics, Lip care products, Brand preference and Purchase patterns','This study found that quality of the products were considered as a major factor while purchasing the lip care products by women, it was found that most of the respondents used lipstick followed by lip liner and lip balm. Majority of the lip care users have preferred chemical lip care products followed by Ayurvedic and herbal lip care products. Majority of the lip care product users got influenced with quality of the products, and personal experience. Least influenced factor while buying lip care products were newspaper and radio.','-','Velivelli Vijaya Lakshmi, Varnam Radhika and Geeta Munje (2023). Purchase Patterns Adopted Forlip Care Products by Women in Hyderabad City. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 15(3): 485-491.'),(6361,'150','Effect of Irrigation Water (Treated industrial effluent) and Integrated Nutrients Management on Growth and Yield of Mustard (Brassica juncea) Crop','Keshav Prasad Kurmi, S.P. Tailor and Satyavir Singh','Effect-of-Irrigation-Water-(Treated-industrial-effluent)-and-Integrated-Nutrients-Management-on-Growth-and-Yield-of-Mustard-(Brassica-juncea)-Crop-Keshav-Preasad-Kurmi-76.pdf','',1,'A field experiment was conducted during rabi season in the year 2020-21 and 2021-22 at agricultural farm of Sangam University, Bhilwara (Rajasthan) India, to evaluate the effect of irrigation water (Treated industrial effluent) and integrated nutrients management on growth and yield of Mustard crop. The trial was consist of four irrigation water (IW0) freshwater, (IW1) 25% effluent + 75% fresh water, (IW2) 50% effluent + 50 % fresh water, (IW3) 75% effluent + 25% freshwater and four integrated nutrient management (INM0) 100% RDF through inorganic fertilizer, (INM1) 75% RDF through inorganic fertilizer + 25% through FYM, (INM2) 75% RDF through inorganic fertilizer + 25% through Vermicompost, (INM3) 50% RDF through inorganic fertilizer + 25% through FYM + 25% Vermicompost. The result revealed that treatment IW1 (25% effluents + 75% fresh water) in combination with INM2 (75% RDF through inorganic fertilizer + 25% through Vermicompost recorded the highest plant height, number of primary branches, number of secondary branches, chlorophyll content and number of green leaves per plant and grain yield in comparison to remaining treatment combination, whereas it was significantly at par with treatment IW0 (100% RDF through inorganic fertilizer).','Integrated nutrient management, Industrial effluent, Vermicompost, Farm Yard Manures, Recommended dose of fertilizer','From the results, it can be inferred that concentrated industrial effluents is heavily loaded with pollutants which negatively affect plant growth and yield by interfering with physiological process. However, on dilution, toxic effects of industrial effluents are reduced. Moreover, the 25% share of industrial effluents had effect on growth, yield and chemical parameters could be stimulatory rather inhibitory. On the basis of this study, it can be concluded that the diluted industrial wastewater can be used to meet the water requirements that can also improve growth and yield of mustard crop.\r\nAmong the integrated nutrient management, application of 75% RDF through inorganic fertlizers + 25% through vermicompost found best among all nutrient management options and may be suggested for higher growth and yield in mustard crop and soil health sustainability as compare to application of 100% RDF through inorganic fertilizers during both the years of experimentation.\r\n','-','Keshav Prasad Kurmi, S.P. Tailor and Satyavir Singh (2023). Effect of Irrigation Water (Treated industrial effluent) and Integrated Nutrients Management on Growth and Yield of Mustard (Brassica juncea) Crop. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 15(3): 492-496.'),(6362,'150','Prevalence and Diversity of Fusarium oxysporum f. sp. lycopersici at Bhilwara Region of Rajasthan','Ajay Kumar Jaiswal, Mohammad Faisal and S.P. Tailor','Prevalence-and-Diversity-of-Fusarium-oxysporum-f.-sp.-lycopersici-at-Bhilwara-Region-of-Rajasthan-Ajay-Kumar-Jaiswal-77.pdf','',1,'Tomato ranks third among the vegetable crops (Lycopersicon esculentum) with an annual productivity of 115.5 million tons but is constrained by wilt disease caused by Fusarium oxysporum f. sp. lycopersici. Hence a survey was conducted for fourteen locations at Bhilwara region. Results reveal that Bardod (L1- 36.17) had the highest disease incidence in comparison to other location followed by Mangrop (L6- 32.45). Further, variability of isolates were tested with respect to virulence, cultural and morphological characteristics. It was found that pathogenicity of isolate belonging to Bigod (84.67) showed best pathogenic virulence in comparison to Atoon (6.65) isolate having lowest pathogenecity. Morphological variability was studied by observing mycelium pattern, colour of mycelium and pigmentation on medium for isolates of Fusarium oxysporum f. sp. lycopersici collected from different locations. It shows that mycelium patterns were aerial fluffy, aerial cottony, slightly aerial to submerged and submerged on potato dextrose agar media. The mycelium colour variations were from dirty white to pure white and light pink to violet. Even the pigmentation on PDA was also distinguished from dirty white to white, pink, light violet to violet, light yellow.\r\nThe macro-conidia ranged from 16.8 – 37.9 × 4.06- 5.92 µm in size with septations ranging from 3-6 and micro-conidia ranged from 6.22 – 12.84 × 3.12 – 5.18 µm in size mostly non-septate or single septations.\r\n','Tomato, Fusarium oxysporum f. sp. lycopersici, eco-friendly, bio-agents, botanicals','The isolates collected from various locations of Bhilwara region have huge variations in terms of pathogenic incidence as Bardod [L1-36.17] has the highest incidence whereas it was lowest in the Sardarpura [L8-18.10] area. The pathogenicity of isolate belonging to Bigod (84.67) showed best pathogenic virulence in comparison to Atoon (6.65) isolate having lowest pathogenecity.\r\nCultural and morphological studies shows that isolates from different region had varied sizes of mycelial colour, pigmentations and growth.\r\nIt can be concluded that isolates of different locations have distinguished diversity and characters.\r\nOverall, the future scope for variability studies of fungal pathogens is vast and multidisciplinary, involving genomics, phenomics, ecology, antifungal resistance, and host-pathogen interactions. Such research can provide crucial insights into the mechanisms of fungal pathogenesis, drug resistance, and host susceptibility, leading to improved strategies for managing fungal infections and protecting human health.\r\n','-','Ajay Kumar Jaiswal, Mohammad Faisal and S.P. Tailor (2023). Prevalence and Diversity of Fusarium oxysporum f. sp. lycopersici at Bhilwara Region of Rajasthan. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 15(3): 497-501.'),(6363,'150','Floristic Diversity and Indigenous Uses of Medicinal Plants of Saharanpur District, (Uttar Pradesh) India','Yogendra Kumar and Arvind Kumar Singh','Floristic-Diversity-and-Indigenous-Uses-of-Medicinal-Plants-of-Saharanpur-District,-(Uttar-Pradesh)-India-Yogendra-Kumar-78.pdf','',1,'From the time immemorial plants have been playing significant role in the life of human beings as a great source of food, clothing, shelter and medicine. In India, the traditional medication system plays an important role in health care of rural people. This traditional knowledge exploration is a part of the cultural tradition of each community to establish a systematic approach based on traditional practices through the sustainable use of natural bioresources. Besides advancement in the healthcare system in the modern age, the communities prefer sharing their intellects on traditional practices and vast experiences, which includes the source of ailments and its remedies leading towards available methods to ensure healthy livelihood. Documentation of this traditional knowledge is a challenge and essentially important for the conservation and utilization of biological resources. An extensive survey to document floristic diversity and indigenous uses of medicinal plants from various parts of Saharanpur district was conducted from July 2020 to August 2022. The ethnobotanical information was obtained through open interviews and group discussions with local people of the district. A total of 61 medicinal plants belonging to 20 families of angiosperms were documented. These plants are widely used against various ailments by the local inhabitants of the study area. Leaves were found to be the most widely used plant part, followed by root and other parts. The main objective of this study was to document the floristic diversity and indigenous knowledge of medicinal plants found in Saharanpur district of Uttar Pradesh.','Floristic diversity, traditional knowledge, bioresources, ethnobotanical, ailments, Saharanpur','It is evident from the result that the ethnomedicinal knowledge is still alive in the study area as the people still use phytomedicines for their various health problems. A total of 61 medicinal plants were collected used for the treatment of various diseases. The principal life form for medicine was herb and leaf was the principal plant part used. Furthermore, the most common treated diseases group was digestive disorders. These plants have tremendous potentials for pharmaceutical products of commercial values but due to the lack of awareness and proper documentation, this wealth is decreasing day by day. Therefore, it is necessary to explore the traditional ethnomedicinal wealth and knowledge with pharmacological aspects through creating awareness and motivating local people for cultivation and conservation of medicinal plants. In recent years, significant changes within several aspects of ethno-medicine occurred as a result of environmental degradation and tremendous changes in modern social systems. Due to these factors, the traditional knowledge system in India is fast degrading. Hence, there is an urgent need to document all ethno-botanical information among the diverse ethnic communities before the traditional culture vanishes.','-','Yogendra Kumar and Arvind Kumar Singh (2023). Floristic Diversity and Indigenous Uses of Medicinal Plants of Saharanpur District, (Uttar Pradesh) India. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 15(3): 502-510.'),(6364,'150','Proteomics: An Emerging Tools, Database and Technique for Understanding Biological System','Amanulla Khan, R.L. Pawar, M.H. Mali, Kamlakar More and Satish V. Deore','Proteomics-An-Emerging-Tools,-Database-and-Technique-for-Understanding-Biological-System-Amanulla-Khan-79.pdf','',1,'Proteomics is an advance tool in protein identification, structures prediction, protein domains and post transcriptional modifications. Proteomics study have several challenges, including the complexity and dynamic nature of the proteome, technical limitations, data analysis, sample preparation, and lack of standardization. Addressing these challenges will require continued innovation and collaboration among scientists, technologists, and bioinformaticians to advance the field of proteomics and realize its full potential in advancing our understanding of biological systems. Various technologies are developed and evolved time to time accordingly to the requirement and availability of the design experiments. Including traditionally used 2DE, immunological to advance modern tandem MS, with more data accuracy and resulted inferences. Information’s, reports and data of proteome from these technologies result to build a specific, organized, and formed databases. These biological databases are evolved from primary to secondary databases and many special, accordingly to their specific features. Databases are Improve and develop with relations and collaboration to others database in various forms and formats. These all techniques and databases are having various latest improvements and additions in recent, which help in high level of protein study to understanding biological system level. ','2DE, tandem MS, Proteome, Proteomics, Biological Databases, and Biological System','Recent developments in protein research databases such as SWISS-PROT, CluSTr, Universal Protein Resource, UniRef, PRIDE, InterPro, ProToMap, International Protein Index, RESID, and PHYTOPROT, have expanded the scope of protein research. These databases provide crucial information on protein structure and function, and have become a valuable resource for protein identification, prediction, and annotation. UniProt has been recently updated to provide more detailed information on protein isoforms and their functions, as well as protein-protein interactions (The UniProt Consortium 2021). In addition, InterPro has been updated to provide more accurate and comprehensive protein domain predictions, while RESID has been updated to include new post-translational modifications (Mitchell, 2019, Huang, 2020). Moreover, new databases have emerged, such as the Protein Data Bank (PDB), which provides high-resolution 3D structures of proteins, and the Human Protein Atlas (HPA), which provides detailed information on the expression and localization of human proteins (Uhlén, 2015 and Burley, 2021). The availability of these databases has led to significant advancements in protein research, and has accelerated the discovery of new drug targets and biomarkers for diseases. In conclusion, these databases continue to play an important role in facilitating protein research and advancing our understanding of the biological world (Burley, 2021).','-','Amanulla Khan, R.L. Pawar, M.H. Mali, Kamlakar More and Satish V. Deore (2023). Proteomics: An Emerging Tools, Database and Technique for Understanding Biological System. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 15(3): 511-523.'),(6365,'150','Profiling of Nutritional and Anti-nutritional Factors in Selected Minor Millets','S. Pandarinathan and S. Geethanjali','Profiling-of-Nutritional-and-Anti-nutritional-Factors-in-Selected-Minor-Millets-S-Pandarinathan-80.pdf','',1,'The research was conducted at Agricultural College & Research Institute, Vazhavachanur of Tamil Nadu, India during the period from June 2019 to May 2022. In the study, five different millets and two varieties of each cultivated in and around Tiruvannamalai district of Tamil Nadu as the test cereal grains in completely randomized design with three replications were tried. Biochemical estimations were carried out to study the nutritional and mineral status in foxtail millet (ATL1, CO (Te) 7), kodo millet (CO 3, TNAU 86), little millet (CO 4, ATL1), barnyard millet (MDU 1, CO (KV) 2) and proso millet (ATL 1, CO (PV) 5). Simultaneously anti-nutritional factors were also quantified for the same grain samples. Results showed that Proso millet, variety ATL 1 has recorded the highest percentage of crude protein i.e. 12.2% and total protein 11.0% at moisture content 11.42% among the millets tested. Little millet, variety ATL 1 has recorded the highest carbohydrate content (71.2%) and starch content (69.2%) at moisture content 9.02% among the millets tested. Barn yard millet, CO 2 has recorded the highest percentage of amylose i.e. 29.3 g/100g starch and highest percentage of Resistant Starch i.e. 5.3 g/100g starch. Barn yard millet, variety MDU 1 has recorded the highest content of total phenols i.e. 14.40 mg/100g at moisture content 8.73%. Barn yard millet, MDU1 has recorded the highest Total flavonoids content i.e. 6.78 mg/100g. Proso millet, variety ATL 1 has recorded the negligible quantity of Tannin content i.e. 0.06mg/100g. Little millet, variety ATL 1 has recorded the lowest quantity of Phytic acid content i.e. 23mg/100g. Results revealed about a considerable variation in levels of different Biochemical traits due to the nature of minor millets and also based on the genotypes. The biochemical information’s on non-protein nitrogenous compound percentage, resistant starch percentage and carotenoid content, ratio of total phenol and total flavonoid, tannin content were not mentioned clearly in the previous literature. This study gives the information clearly. The overall results of this study revealed that Proso millet, variety ATL 1 and Barn yard millet, varieties CO 2 and MDU1 were considered as top three minor millets among the tested sources.','Biochemistry, Barn yard millet, Millets, Nutrition, Proso millet, Resistant Starch, Tannin and Total phenols','There was a significant variation in the nutritional and antinutritional profile of selected minor millets. Variation in levels of Biochemical traits in minor millets is due to their nature and also based on the genotypes.The overall results of this study revealed that Proso millet, variety ATL 1and Barn yard millet, varieties CO 2 and MDU1 were considered as top three minor millets among the tested sources. Millets can be used as delicious and medicinal food. Barn yard millet and Kodo millet are considered as top two millets based on consumer preferences. Millets are considered as good sources for revenue. Millet grain is now receiving more attention from biochemists, nutritionists and patients. If hundred reasons are there for hundred years for a person life period, then, millet may be the one.','-','S. Pandarinathan and S. Geethanjali (2023). Profiling of Nutritional and Anti-nutritional Factors in Selected Minor Millets. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 15(3): 524-529.'),(6366,'150','Evaluation of different DNA Extraction Methods from Blood for LAMP Reaction','Sindhoora Divakar, Dhanalakshmi H., Sandeep N., Shrikrishna Isloor, Rashmi R., Ananda K.J. and Manjunatha Reddy ','Evaluation-of-Different-DNA-Extraction-Methods-from-Blood-for-LAMP-Reaction-Sindhoora-Divakar-81.pdf','',1,'DNA-based methods are becoming familiar techniques for the detection and identification of specific organisms. These methods rely on the ability to detect specific DNA sequences in the genome of target organisms. The main objective of the study is to facilitate DNA extraction from the blood at the field level. In the present study, simple methods of DNA extraction from blood were optimized and compared with kit method to assist LAMP (Loop mediated isothermal amplification). The boiling method was the simplest and cheapest when compared to all the four methods. But the quantity of DNA was highest in case of DPK (Detergent proteinase K) method. Apart from these methods, the filter paper method is also a simple, time saving method which can also be considered as a good alternative.','DNA, LAMP, Boiling, DPK method, filter paper','As a result, a higher yield was obtained with the DPK method when compared to Qiagen kit method. Qiagen kit method is the most expensive of all the four methods, whereas DPK method is the most laborious and time consuming of all the four methods. Boiling method provides reasonable amounts of DNA that are usually enough to be used in LAMP. It is also very easy and inexpensive. The use of dried blood spots on filter paper becomes an attractive alternative to blood collection in tubes for LAMP analysis. Sample transport and storage for dried blood spots is easy and less expensive. ','-','Sindhoora Divakar, Dhanalakshmi H., Sandeep N., Shrikrishna Isloor, Rashmi R., Ananda K.J. and Manjunatha Reddy (2023). Evaluation of Different DNA Extraction Methods from Blood for LAMP Reaction. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 15(3): 530-533.'),(6367,'150','Comparing SARIMA and Dynamic Seasonal Model: Application to Acute Encephalitis Syndrome (AES) for Gorakhpur, India','Pooja Kushwaha and Richa Vatsa','Comparing-SARIMA-and-Dynamic-Seasonal-Model-Application-to-Acute-Encephalitis-Syndrome-(AES)-for-Gorakhpur,-India-Pooja-Kushwaha-82.pdf','',1,'In this paper, we applied a Bayesian dynamical seasonal modelling of count data. Their usefulness is illustrated by their application to Acute Encephalitis Syndrome (AES) cases from Gorakhpur regions and by comparing them with the widely used seasonal autoregressive integrated moving average (SARIMA) models for seasonal modelling. The outbreak of encephalitis causes many deaths and long-term disabilities among children and young adults. We considered the AES case data of Gorakhpur from (Jan-12 to Nov-17). We focus on the case of response variables following a Poisson distribution, concentrating on the dynamical seasonal harmonic model. The study helps the policy maker, future disease spread and a better understanding of high-risk months, which may be associated with AES cases. Prior knowledge of the disease outbreak is a main and essential step for policymakers to minimise the disease risk and mortality of children, and enhance health services, vaccination programmes, and other public health initiatives.','AES, Bayesian estimation, dynamic seasonal harmonic model, cross-validation, SARIMA, WAIC','In our analysis, we found a clear seasonal peak in September. August and October months are also positively associated with the disease. The dynamic seasonal harmonic Poisson model modelled non-stationarity in seasonal data better than SARIMA models. However, the limit of our study is that it is based only on trends and seasonal effects, with no other explanatory variables included in the study. But this may be seen as an opportunity. In all circumstances, one wants to know the disease pattern and its association with different months. The dynamic seasonal model may provide a better understanding than the SARIMA models.','-','Pooja Kushwaha and Richa Vatsa (2023). Comparing SARIMA and Dynamic Seasonal Model: Application to Acute Encephalitis Syndrome (AES) for Gorakhpur, India. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 15(3): 534-542.'),(6368,'150','Effect of Carbon and Nitrogen Sources on Growth and Sclerotial Development of Sclerotinia sclerotiorum','Sonu Sharma, R.K. Pandya, Rajni Singh Sasode, Vijay Kumar Kashyap and Shivram Chandel','Effect-of-Carbon-and-Nitrogen-Sources-on-Growth-and-Sclerotial-Development-of-Sclerotinia-sclerotiorum-Sonu-Sharma-83.pdf','',1,'Sclerotinia stem rot caused by Sclerotinia sclerotiorum in rapeseed-mustard is a soil borne, necrotrophic pathogen. In this study the effect of Carbon and nitrogen sources on growth and sclerotial development of Sclerotinia sclerotiorum. Among the nitrogen sources, the maximum mycelium growth was recorded in ammonium sulphate @2% at 3 and 5 DAI. The maximum number and size of sclerotia were obtained in ammonium nitrate @2%. Among the carbon sources, the maximum mycelium growth was recorded in sucrose @2%. The maximum number of sclerotia per plate was recorded in sucrose @2%. The maximum size of sclerotia was recorded in D-glucose @2%. The present study helped in determining the carbon and nitrogen sources favourable for growth and sclerotial development of the pathogen.','Sclerotinia sclerotiorum, Carbon, Nitrogen, Ammonium sulphate, Sucrose','Among the nitrogen sources, the maximum mycelium growth was recorded in ammonium sulphate@2% at 3 and 5 DAI. The maximum number and size of sclerotia were obtained in ammonium nitrate @2%. Among the carbon sources, the maximum mycelium growth was recorded in sucrose@2%. The maximum number of sclerotia per plate was recorded in sucrose@2%. The maximum size of sclerotia was recorded in D-glucose@2%. Thus, from the present study the nutritional requirement of Sclerotinia sclerotiorum affecting mustard crop was known.','-','Sonu Sharma, R.K. Pandya, Rajni Singh Sasode, Vijay Kumar Kashyap and Shivram Chandel (2023). Effect of Carbon and Nitrogen Sources on Growth and Sclerotial Development of Sclerotinia sclerotiorum. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 15(3): 543-546.'),(6369,'150','In vitro Regeneration of Plantlets from Nodal Explants of Aristolochia bracteata Retz. – An Important Medicinal Plant','Ramsiya A. and A.S. Rubin Jose','In-vitro-Regeneration-of-Plantlets-from-Nodal-Explants-of-Aristolochia-bracteata-Retz.-–-An-Important-Medicinal-Plant-4800-Ramsiya-A-84.pdf','',1,'Natural propagation of Aristolochia species is hindered by its low viability of seeds. Aristolochia bracteata Retz. is one of the major species of the genus that faces challenges with its seed viability. So, its multiplication through the in vitro culture is one of the best ways to overcome such challenges. Accordingly, an efficient regeneration protocol through in vitro direct organogenesis was developed for the valuable medicinal plant Aristolochia bracteata Retz. using nodal segments as explants. The present study established a reproductive protocol for the conservation via in vitro culture as well as its secondary metabolite enhancement. Varying concentrations of plant growth regulators of cytokinin (Benzyl adenine, Kinetin and Thidiazuron) and auxin (Indole-3-acetic acid, Indole-3-butyric acid and 1-Naphthaleneacetic acid) were used for micropropagation in Murashige and Skoog medium. The plant showed multiple roots and shoots at lower concentrations of Indole-3-acetic acid (0.9 mg/l) and Benzyl adenine (0.7 mg/l) respectively. Maximum shoots were attained in Thidiazuron, but all the cultures showed anomalous growth. Shoot with large-sized leaves were obtained in kinetin. Rooted plantlets were transferred to the natural environment after appropriate acclimatization.','BA, Benzyl adenine; KIN, Kinetin; TDZ, Thidiazuron; IAA, Indole-3-acetic acid; IBA, Indole-3-butyric acid; NAA, 1-Naphthaleneacetic acid; MS, Murashige and Skoog',' The low viability of seed impedes the natural propagation of the plant. As a part of plant propagation, the present study exemplifies a triumphant development of in vitro propagation of Aristolochia bracteata Retz. It is known that lower concentration of IAA and BA induced multiple roots and shoots respectively. BA is strongly recommended than kinet into obtain the highest percentage of regeneration and the highest number of shoots without any anomalies. Plantlet with elongated shoots were given from medium amended with a combination of KIN and IBA. However, TDZ produces multiple stunted shoots in which the regenerated plantlet is not taken for further in vitro culture studies. In conclusion, the micropropagation method is valuable for conserving Aristolochia bracteata Retz., a medicinally important plant. Retardation in its natural propagation can be overcome through this regeneration protocol, and it enhances the overall conservation of the species.','-','Ramsiya A. and A.S. Rubin Jose (2023). In vitro Regeneration of Plantlets from Nodal Explants of Aristolochia bracteata Retz. – An Important Medicinal Plant. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 15(3): 547-552.'),(6370,'150','Pomegranate Cercospora Leaf Spot as an Emerging Problem, Tackle through Biological, Botanical and Fungicidal Approach, both in-vitro and Field Condition','Shilpa, Somasekhara Y.M., Ravichandra, Mahesh M. and Shalini M.','Pomegranate-Cercospora-Leaf-Spot-as-an-Emerging-Problem,-Tackle-through-Biological,-Botanical-and-Fungicidal-Approach,-both-in-vitro-and-Field-condition-Ravichandra-85.pdf','',1,'Pomegranate plant affected by many diseases and pests which hinders the production of quality of fruits and reduces the yield. The diseases caused by Cercospora sp. in different crops are considered to be of minor importance, yet the changing climatic scenario resulted in erratic rainfall with the resume that the incidence and severity of Cercospora leaf and fruit spots is increasing every year. Recently, pomegranate plants were heavily infected with cercospora leaf spot disease with symptoms like brown to dark brown spot with faint halo symptoms on leaves, but in case of flowers and fruits initially circular spot later become irregular as they grow, due to this there is qualitative and quantitative loss observed (loss about 4-17 %: Anon., 2020). The disease was managed by use of latest fungicides, botanicals and bio-agents under lab condition. In vitro evaluation of systemic fungicides indicated that carbendazim (92.31%), in contact fungicides, captan (76.15%) and in case of combi-product fungicides, Carbendazim 12% + Mancozeb 63% WP found most effective against Cercospora punicae. total nine botanicals were tested against C. punicae, among those Simarouba leaf extract showed maximum per cent mycelial inhibition of C. punicae. Among different fungal bio-agents like, Trichoderma viridae-3 (71.11%) whereas in bacterial bio-agents Pseudomonas fluorescence Dharwad (47.96%) isolate showed maximum mycelial growth inhibition of Cercospora punicae in lab conditions.','Leaf spot, Cercospora, pomegranate, mycelial inhibition, fungicides, bio-agents, plant extract, maximum, growth','The research conducted on Studies on leaf spot of pomegranate caused by Cercospora punicae Henn. was managed under in vitro conditions by best chemicals like carbendazim, captan and combination of carbendazim + mancozeb whereas in bio-agents Trichoderma viridae-3 (fungal) and Pseudomonas fluorescence Dharwad isolate (bacteria) found most effective. In case of botanicals Simarouba leaf extract showed maximum per cent of mycelial inhibition over the control. In vivo or in field condition we found one of the best chemical for managing the disease was azoxystrobin 23% SC fungicide which was reducing no. of spot on leaves and disease severity in both locations. ','-','Shilpa, Somasekhara Y.M., Ravichandra, Mahesh M. and Shalini M. (2023). Pomegranate Cercospora Leaf Spot as an Emerging Problem, Tackle through Biological, Botanical and Fungicidal Approach, both in-vitro and Field Condition. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 15(3): 553-563.'),(6371,'150','Performance Evaluation of Tractor Drawn Root Crop Harvester for Harvesting of Potato and Ginger Crop','D.M. Kadam, Rahul Dongre, Rajesh Gupta, Rahul Gautam and S.K. Rajak','Performance-Evaluation-of-Tractor-Drawn-Root-Crop-Harvester-for-Harvesting-of-Potato-and-Ginger-Crop-Rahul-Dongre-86.pdf','',1,'Potato and Ginger are important root crops grown in Madhya Pradesh and in India. Harvesting is one of the very crucial operation in potato and ginger crop production. In conventional method, the potato and ginger is harvested either by manually with spade or hand hoe or by bullock drawn equipment, which is tedious, labour intensive and time consuming operation. Also, the damage percentage of potato and ginger is sometimes more due to cutting action of spade or hoe or blade of bullock drawn equipment, which reduces market value and storage life of these root crops. Many researchers and local manufacturers have tried to develop the tractor drawn root crop harvester to overcome these problems with conventional method, but these machines are need to be evaluated in the field as per BIS standard, for further refinement in the design of machine, for standardization, for improving its performance and for checking its feasibility and suitability in different agro climatic conditions. Hence, the research work was undertaken to evaluate the performance of tractor drawn root crop harvester for potato and ginger crops. In the research work undertaken, the tractor operated root crop harvester developed by PAU was tested as per BIS test code at farmer’s field and at JNKVV farm in Jabalpur. During performance evaluation of tractor drawn root crop harvester in the field, the digging efficiency of root crop harvester for potato was found 94-96 % and for ginger it was found 92-94 %. The draft requirement of root crop harvester for harvesting of potato was recorded 1060 kg and for harvesting of ginger was recorded 1180 kg. The actual field capacity of root crop harvester for harvesting of potato was recorded 0.21 ha/h and for harvesting of ginger was recorded 0.18 ha/h during field testing of machine. The field efficiency of root crop harvester for harvesting of potato was recorded 68% and for harvesting of ginger was recorded 64%. Total per cent saving in cost operation was found 85.64% for potato and 83.35% for ginger harvesting when compared with manual method. Payback period was found 0.40 year for potato and 0.25 year for ginger harvesting when used tractor drawn root crop harvester. Hence use of tractor drawn root crop harvester can save lot of time, cost of operation and labour required in harvesting of potato and ginger. The overall functional performance of various systems of tractor drawn root crop harvester was found satisfactory during laboratory and field testing.','Root crop harvester, root crop digger, bruised, cut, exposed, digging efficiency, performance evaluation of digger','The overall functional performance of various systems of tractor drawn root crop harvester was found satisfactory during laboratory and field testing trials. The digging efficiency of root crop harvester for potato was found 94-96 % and for ginger it was found 92-94 %. The draft requirement of root crop harvester for harvesting of potato was recorded 1060 kg and for harvesting of ginger was recorded 1180 kg during field testing of tractor drawn root crop harvester machine. The actual field capacity of root crop harvester for harvesting of potato was recorded 0.21 ha/hand for harvesting of ginger was recorded 0.18 ha/h during field testing of machine. The field efficiency of root crop harvester for harvesting of potato was recorded 68% and for harvesting of ginger was recorded 64% during field testing of machine. Total per cent saving in cost operation was found 85.64% for potato and 83.35% for ginger harvesting when compared with manual method. Payback period was found 0.40 year for potato and 0.25 year for ginger harvesting when used tractor drawn root crop harvester. Therefore, use of tractor drawn root crop harvester can save lot of time, cost of operation and labour required in harvesting of potato and ginger. Hence, from above research work it can be concluded that the tractor drawn root crop harvester is suitable for harvesting of potato and ginger and may be suitable for other root crops like onion, sweat potato, garlic, turmeric crops with little adjustments in the existing machinery.','-','D.M. Kadam, Rahul Dongre, Rajesh Gupta, Rahul Gautam and S.K. Rajak (2023). Performance Evaluation of Tractor Drawn Root Crop Harvester for Harvesting of Potato and Ginger Crop. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 15(3): 564-570.'),(6372,'150','Evaluation of Soil Erodibility status under different Land Uses in Sechu-Zubza subdivision of Kohima, Nagaland','Angela Pidenro, Manoj Dutta, Sewak Ram, Jurisandhya Barik Bordoloi, \r\nAlongba Jamir and Hapemo Ngullie K.\r\n','Evaluation-of-Soil-Erodibility-status-under-different-Land-Uses-in-Sechu-Zubza-subdivision-of-Kohima,-Nagaland-Manoj-Dutta-87.pdf','',1,'The study was conducted in the Department of Soil and Water Conservation, School of Agricultural Sciences and Rural Development, Nagaland University, Medziphema to evaluate the impact of different land uses on erodibility characteristics in Sechu-Zubza subdivision of Kohima, Nagaland. Knowledge of soil erodibility status of a particular location with respect to various land uses is one of the important prerequisites to formulate proper soil water conservation strategy for sustainable productivity. Soil samples under three different land uses i.e terrace, jhum, and forest land from eight villages, viz., Khonoma, Sechuma, Khono-Basa, Sechu-Zubza, Dzulekema, Kiruphema, Peducha, and Mezoma were collected and analyzed for various parameters to evaluate the erodibility characteristics of the soil. The textural class were found to be clay loam, clayey, loamy and sandy clay loam with clay loam being the most dominant. Dispersion ratio of the soils ranged from 12.4 to 19.6, which were categorized as fairly erosive. Erosion index of the soils ranged from 8.3 to 12.6, which were recorded to be higher than the threshold limits. There was a positive correlation between Dispersion ratio (DR) and Erosion index (EI) (r= 0.35). Dispersion ratio showed significant positive correlation with sand (r= 0.63*). EI was negatively correlated with silt (r= -0.19) and clay (r= -0.36). Most of the soils were subjected to erodible class and need to adopt proper conservation measures.','Dispersion ratio, erosion index, conservation measures','The soils in the research region, particularly Peducha village was highly sensitive to erosion. High erosion sensitivity will cause excessive transport on the soil surface, thus shall owing the depth of the soil and lowering land’s yield. Regardless of the land use, all the soils were subjected to be erodible class considering 2.8 as the threshold value for erosion index and 15 as the threshold limit for Dispersion ratio. Therefore, it is crucial to exercise extreme caution while making any interventions in all the land uses. To reduce the impact of erosivity of rainfall, proper soil and water management strategy should be adopted to increase the vegetative cover and to improve the infiltration capacity of the soil. Hence, it is recommended that proper reclamation activities be made, such as fertilization in terraces, boosting the plant composition and density in jhum, and safeguarding forests from anthropogenic influence to prevent soil erosion.','-','Angela Pidenro, Manoj Dutta, Sewak Ram, Jurisandhya Barik Bordoloi, Alongba Jamir and Hapemo Ngullie K. (2023). Evaluation of Soil Erodibility status under different Land Uses in Sechu-Zubza subdivision of Kohima, Nagaland . Biological Forum – An International Journal, 15(3): 571-575.'),(6373,'150','Comparative Analysis of Nutritional and Antimicrobial Activity of Curcuma angustifolia (Roxb.) and Maranta arundinacea (L.)','Sahoo Monalisha, Jena Padan Kumar, Mahapatra Sujata and Bhotra Tilothama','Comparative-Analysis-of-Nutritional-and-Antimicrobial-Activity-of-Curcuma-angustifolia-(Roxb.)-and-Maranta-arundinacea-(L.pdf','',4,'Curcuma angustifolia (Roxb.) commonly called as Eastern arrowroot (Zingiberaceae) and Maranta arundinacea (L.) called as Western arrowroot (Marantaceae) are two starch yielding plants having medicinal and nutritive value. Despite many reports on their therapeutic and pharmacological potential both the plants are generally grown in wild with limited commercial cultivation. This study was done for comparative assessment of both the plants for phytochemical and antimicrobial evaluation sampled from the rural areas of Keonjhar and Sundergarh districts of Odisha. Results showed the presence of several bioactive constituents such as alkaloids, phenols, lipids, flavonoids, and steroids in both the plants except curcuminin C. angustifolia. Carbohydrate and protein content was comparatively higher in M. arundinacea than C. angustifolia at 20.59% and 0.98%. The methanol and acetone extracts also showed good antibacterial activity against both gram-positive and gram-negative bacteria. This study for the first time reports the characterization of the two arrowroot plants from the two districts of Odisha and aims to promote its wider use for its nutraceutical and therapeutic value to derive potential health benefits.','Curcuma angustifolia (Roxb.); Maranta arundinacea (L.); Arrow root; Phytochemicals; Antimicrobial activity','The present study has investigated the phytochemical constituents, nutritional content, and antimicrobial activity of C. angustifolia and M. arundinacea rhizomes grown in the unexplored Sundergarh and Keonjhar districts of Odisha. Both the plants showed the presence of various phytochemicals like flavonoids, phenols, tannins, terpenoids, quinones, saponin, glycosides, lipids, steroids, amino acids, whereas curcumin and oxalates were present only in C. angustifolia which indicates that the plants are an effective source of therapeutic drugs. Aqueous extraction was found to be the most favourable method for extracting most of the classes of phytochemical compounds amongst all the solvents tested. Further characterization of the bioactive compounds can lead to identification of more antimicrobial compounds and help in combating the challenges of antimicrobial resistance. Additionally, the rhizomes can serve as a good source of carbohydrates and proteins and fulfil the nutritional requirements of people for all age groups.','-','Sahoo Monalisha, Jena Padan Kumar, Mahapatra Sujata and Bhotra Tilothama (2023). Comparative Analysis of Nutritional and Antimicrobial Activity of Curcuma angustifolia (Roxb.) and Maranta arundinacea (L.). Biological Forum – An International Journal, 15(3): 576-582.'),(6374,'150','Comparative Analysis of Nutritional and Antimicrobial Activity of Curcuma angustifolia (Roxb.) and Maranta arundinacea (L.)','Sahoo Monalisha, Jena Padan Kumar, Mahapatra Sujata and Bhotra Tilothama','Comparative-Analysis-of-Nutritional-and-Antimicrobial-Activity-of-Curcuma-angustifolia-(Roxb.)-and-Maranta-arundinacea-(L.)-Bhotra-Tilothama-88.pdf','',1,'Curcuma angustifolia (Roxb.) commonly called as Eastern arrowroot (Zingiberaceae) and Maranta arundinacea (L.) called as Western arrowroot (Marantaceae) are two starch yielding plants having medicinal and nutritive value. Despite many reports on their therapeutic and pharmacological potential both the plants are generally grown in wild with limited commercial cultivation. This study was done for comparative assessment of both the plants for phytochemical and antimicrobial evaluation sampled from the rural areas of Keonjhar and Sundergarh districts of Odisha. Results showed the presence of several bioactive constituents such as alkaloids, phenols, lipids, flavonoids, and steroids in both the plants except curcuminin C. angustifolia. Carbohydrate and protein content was comparatively higher in M. arundinacea than C. angustifolia at 20.59% and 0.98%. The methanol and acetone extracts also showed good antibacterial activity against both gram-positive and gram-negative bacteria. This study for the first time reports the characterization of the two arrowroot plants from the two districts of Odisha and aims to promote its wider use for its nutraceutical and therapeutic value to derive potential health benefits.','Curcuma angustifolia (Roxb.); Maranta arundinacea (L.); Arrow root; Phytochemicals; Antimicrobial activity','The present study has investigated the phytochemical constituents, nutritional content, and antimicrobial activity of C. angustifolia and M. arundinacea rhizomes grown in the unexplored Sundergarh and Keonjhar districts of Odisha. Both the plants showed the presence of various phytochemicals like flavonoids, phenols, tannins, terpenoids, quinones, saponin, glycosides, lipids, steroids, amino acids, whereas curcumin and oxalates were present only in C. angustifolia which indicates that the plants are an effective source of therapeutic drugs. Aqueous extraction was found to be the most favourable method for extracting most of the classes of phytochemical compounds amongst all the solvents tested. Further characterization of the bioactive compounds can lead to identification of more antimicrobial compounds and help in combating the challenges of antimicrobial resistance. Additionally, the rhizomes can serve as a good source of carbohydrates and proteins and fulfil the nutritional requirements of people for all age groups.','-','Sahoo Monalisha, Jena Padan Kumar, Mahapatra Sujata and Bhotra Tilothama (2023). Comparative Analysis of Nutritional and Antimicrobial Activity of Curcuma angustifolia (Roxb.) and Maranta arundinacea (L.). Biological Forum – An International Journal, 15(3): 576-582.'),(6375,'150','Effect of Thermal Unit and Heat use Efficiency at various Phenophases of Chickpea (Cicer arietinum L.) Cultivars','Mandeep Kumar, Naushad Khan, Ravindra Sachan, Shravan Kumar Maurya and Durgesh Kumar Maurya','89 Effect-of-Thermal-Unit-and-Heat-use-Efficiency-at-various-Phenophases-of-Chickpea-(Cicer-arietinum-L.)-Cultivars-Shravan-Kumar-Maurya-89.pdf','',1,'During the Rabi season of 2019–20, a field experiment was conducted on the sandy loam soil at the C.S.A. University of Agriculture and Technology in Kanpur, Uttar Pradesh, India. At various phenological stages, the diverse climatic conditions that are created by various sowing dates have a significant impact on accumulated thermal unit and heat use efficiency. Temperature stands out as one of the main contributors to the behaviour’s fluctuations throughout time and space. The effects of temperature on chickpea cultivars (KWR-108, KPG-59 and KGD-1168) phenology and heat use efficiency grown was evaluated in a trial with a split plot design (SPD) with 4 replications, where sowing dates were November 10, November 20, and November 30 (year 2019). At various phenophases, there was a tremendous discrepancy in the cumulative growth degree days/heat unit; the heliothermal unit and photothermal unit were impacted by the variable sowing date/sowing temperature. higher heat unit/growing degree days. When chickpea cultivar KGD-1168 was sowed on November 10 (at a temperature of 22°C), followed by a crop on November 20 (at a temperature of 17°C), heliothermal and photothermal units were detected at all phenological phases, particularly given that they took the longest to mature. Heat use efficiency (HUE) enhanced inside the crop when it was sown on November 10 at a temperature of 22°C, followed by variety KGD-1168 on November 20 at a temperature of 17°C, and it decreased on November 30. This showed that the crop exposed a suboptimal thermal regime as a result of the delayed sowing (with sowing temperature 16°C).','Chickpea, Growing Degree Days, Heliothermal Unit, November, Phenological Stages, Photothermal Unit and Temperature','The present study concluded that sowing of chickpea variety KGD-1168 on November.10 are exhibited significantly highest accumulated GDD 1931.47°days. Heliothermal Unit 158612.03° days h and photothermal. Unit 20401.42° days h from various reproductive stages of chickpea under prevailing weather condition of central plain zone of Uttar Pradesh. Maximum heat use efficiency was recorded under KGD-1168 sown on November 10. ','-','Mandeep Kumar, Naushad Khan, Ravindra Sachan, Shravan Kumar Maurya and Durgesh Kumar Maurya (2023). Effect of Thermal Unit and Heat use Efficiency at various Phenophases of Chickpea (Cicer arietinum L.) Cultivars. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 15(3): 583-588.'),(6376,'150','To Evaluate the Effectiveness of Multiple Angle Isometric Exercises on Pain in Patients with Osteoarthritis Knee','Dhivyadharshini V., Barathkumar S., Abinaya S. and Manikandan M.','To-Evaluate-the-Effectiveness-of-Multiple-Angle-Isometric-Exercises-on-Pain-in-Patients-with-Osteoarthritis-Knee-Dhivyadharshini-V-90.pdf','',1,'A rising non-inflammatory condition that affects older people is osteoarthritis. The most typical location for osteoarthritis is the knee. When a muscle contracts and generates forces during an isometric workout, there is no noticeable change in the length of the muscle. Exercises known as multiple angle isometrics require the user to manually apply resistance to a range of joint positions. So, the goal of this study is to assess how well multiple angle isometric exercise reduces pain in people with osteoarthritis.\r\nTen samples were collected from the Aarupadai Veedu Medical College and Hospitals outpatient physiotherapy department in Kirumampakkam, Pondicherry. Between the ages of 45 and 65, both males and females were collected. Participants underwent seven sessions of multiple-angle isometric exercise over the course of one week. The NPRS scale was used to assess pain before and after therapy. The use of a single outcome and a limited sample size are study limitations; it is recommended that more outcomes, such as strength and endurance, be added in the future to achieve a better level of dependability.\r\nThe findings of this study revealed a considerable improvement in patients with osteoarthritis of the knee in terms of pain reduction. The research found that multiple angle isometric training reduces pain in those with osteoarthritis.\r\n','Osteoarthritis (OA) knee, Multiple angle isometric exercise, Numeric pain rating scale (NPRS)','The study concluded that the multiple angle isometric exercise reduces the pain among osteoarthritis knee patients.','-','Dhivyadharshini V., Barathkumar S., Abinaya S. and Manikandan M. (2023). To Evaluate the Effectiveness of Multiple Angle Isometric Exercises on Pain in Patients with Osteoarthritis Knee. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 15(3): 589-591.'),(6377,'150','Molecular Docking Analysis of Bergenin and 11-o-gallyl Bergenin from Mallotus philippensis against Anti-oxidant Proteins','Y. Jhansi Laskshmi, R. Durga, G. Sashikanth Reddy, P.S. Harika and Y. Suneetha','Molecular-Docking-Analysis-of-Bergenin-and-11-o-gallyl-Bergenin-from-Mallotus-philippensis-Against-Anti-oxidant-Proteins-Y-Suneetha-91.pdf','',1,'One of the critically endangered medicinally significant plants used in traditional systems of medicine is Mallotus philippensis, which has the potential for cultivation. It is a significant Ayurvedic medicinal shrub, and the entire plant is loaded with secondary metabolites. The plant\'s various parts are used to treat conditions like cancer, diabetes, diarrhea, urinogenital infection, bronchitis, abdominal disease, jaundice, malaria, antifungals, tape-worms, and eye disease. Additionally, it possesses a variety of pharmacological properties, including antioxidant, antimicrobial, anti-filarial, anti-leukemic, anti-tumor, anti-HIV, and hepatoprotective properties. We aimed in this study to perform molecular docking to two compounds from Mallotus philippensis against two anti-oxidant proteins SOD and GPX. The results showed that 11-o-galloylbergenin has a high docking score and binding affinity to both protein receptors as compared to bergenin. The demonstrated biological potentials declared that compounds could be the better natural antioxidant candidate. The resulting data is extremely valuable for phytotherapeutics continued development as a cancer treatment.','Mallotus philippensis, Molecular docking, SOD, GPX. 11-o-galloylbergenin, bergenin','In the present study, two biologically active compounds from M. philippensis were Bergen in and 11-O-galloylbergenin. Therefore, it is concluded that the isolated compounds\' proven medicinal properties could be used as building blocks for the creation of advanced natural products and may be crucial for the development of new drugs.','-','Y. Jhansi Laskshmi, R. Durga, G. Sashikanth Reddy, P.S. Harika and Y. Suneetha (2023). Molecular Docking Analysis of Bergenin and 11-o-gallyl Bergenin from Mallotus philippensis Against Anti-oxidant Proteins. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 15(3): 592-596.'),(6378,'150','Assess of Integrated Nutrient Management Practices on the Performance of Direct Seeded Rice in Terms of Economic, Nutrient content and Uptake','Avini-e Nakhro, P K Singh, Debika N., Sibino Dolie and Gauri Mohan','Assess-of-Integrated-Nutrient-Management-Practices-on-the-Performance-of-Direct-Seeded-Rice-in-Terms-of-Economic,-Nutrient-content-and-Uptake-Avini-e-Nakhro-92.pdf','',1,'The prognosis of increasing water scarcity under climate crisis and escalation of labor shortages in agriculture have brought a paradigm swing in rice cultivation from conventionally flooded transplanting to direct-seeded rice. Furthermore, rice being an exhaustive crop leads to nutrient depletion. Therefore, integrated nutrient management can be an effective way to sustain soil health and increase in crop productivity. This study evaluates the impact of INM practices on the performance of direct seeded rice in terms of economic, nutrient content and uptake at the experimental farm of School of Agricultural Sciences and Rural Development, Nagaland University in Randomized Block Design with 3 replications and 12 treatments during the kharif season of 2019 and 2020. Higher nutrient content and uptake by grains and straw was observed T5 (100% RDF + FYM @ 2 t ha-1 + PSB) followed by T4 which showed parity with each other and significantly higher than the rest of the treatments. Significantly minimum value was noted in T1 (Control). Furthermore, integrated application of nutrients (T5) fetched maximum gross return, net return and B:C ratio.','INM, nutrient content, nutrient uptake, economic, direct seeded rice','The outcome of the study disclosed that T5 (100% RDF + FYM @ 2 t ha-1 + PSB) recorded higher nutrient content and uptake as well as higher profitability during both the years of investigation. Therefore, it can be concluded that integrated nutrient management has emerged as a solution to degraded soil fertility and sustainable crop production.','-','Avini-e Nakhro, P K Singh, Debika N., Sibino Dolie and Gauri Mohan (2023). Assess of Integrated Nutrient Management Practices on the Performance of Direct Seeded Rice in Terms of Economic, Nutrient content and Uptake. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 15(3): 597-604.'),(6379,'150','Effect of Spacing and Varieties on Growth, Yield and Economics of Summer Groundnut (Arachis hypogea L.)','Salma Chilakala, Victor Debbarma and Pavani Reddy P.','Effect-of-Spacing-and-Varieties-on-Growth,-Yield-and-Economics-of-Summer-Groundnut-(Arachis-hypogea-L.)-Salma-Chilakala-93.pdf','',1,'The field experiment was conducted at Crop Research Farm during Zaid season 2022, Department of Agronomy, Sam Higginbottom University of Agriculture, Technology and Sciences, Prayagraj (U.P.) to study the effect of Spacing and Varieties on Growth, Yield and Economics of Summer Groundnut. The results showed that treatment 9 [Kadiri-6 + Spacing (30 cm × 10 cm)] recorded significantly higher plant height (43.48 cm), maximum number of nodules/plant (46.53), higher plant dry weight (25.39 g/plant), and yield attributes namely higher number of pods/plant (21.13), higher number of kernals/pod (2.01), higher seed index (36.77 g), higher seed yield (2.27 t/ha), higher haulm yield (4.44 t/ha) and higher harvest index (39.23 %) compared to other treatment combinations. The maximum gross returns (1,26.920 INR/ha), maximum net returns (86,692.00 INR/ha) and highest benefit cost ratio (2.15) was also recorded in treatment 9 [Kadiri-6 + Spacing (30 cm x 10 cm)] when compared to other treatments.','Groundnut, Spacing, Varieties, Growth, Yield and Economics','Based on above findings it can be concluded that combination of Kadiri-6 along with the spacing (30 cm × 10 cm) (Treatment 9) was observed highest seed yield and benefit cost ratio.','-','Salma Chilakala, Victor Debbarma and Pavani Reddy P. (2023). Effect of Spacing and Varieties on Growth, Yield and Economics of Summer Groundnut (Arachis hypogea L.). Biological Forum – An International Journal, 15(3): 605-609.'),(6380,'150','Bio Control Efficacy of Fungal Endophytes of Finger Millet Landraces against Blast Pathogen (Pyricularia grisea)','Bhagyashree K.B., N. Umashankar, Raveendra H.R., L. Krishna Naik, \r\nN. Earanna and P.S. Benherlal','Bio-Control-Efficacy-of-Fungal-Endophytes-of-Finger-Millet-Landraces-Against-Blast-Pathogen-(Pyricularia-grisea)-Bhagyashree-K-94.pdf','',1,'Plant diseases cause heavy losses to crop yield, which encourages effective disease management practices like use of chemicals, resistant varieties, etc. From the point of environmental safety, biological control of plant diseases is gaining importance. Endophytes are microbes that reside within the plant tissues without causing any harm to the host. Finger millet is considered a climate-resilient crop, able to resist harsh environmental conditions, while the crop is affected by a devastating disease, the blast caused by Pyricularia grisea. Landraces are well adapted to local conditions including biotic and abiotic stress factors and some possess resistance to the blast disease. In the present study, 34 fungal endophytic isolates from different landraces were screened for their antagonistic activity against blast pathogen. Isolates KRL (80.21 %) and HGRS-2 (78.45 %) were efficient in inhibiting the pathogen in dual culture assay by means of antibiosis and hyper-parasitism. Three isolates were positive for siderophore production and seven for ammonia production and most of them were positive for various cell wall degrading enzymes. It suggests that the microflora of these landraces possess antimicrobial activity and one can make use of them as the best microbial inoculants for management of blast disease, to improve plant growth and crop yield. ','Endophytes, Landraces, Biocontrol activity, Blast disease, Pyricularia grisea','Thirty four fungal endophytic isolates were isolated from fifteen landraces of finger millet and were screened against blast pathogen under in vitro conditions. Isolates, KRL and HGRS-2 were efficient in controlling pathogen growth in dual culture with siderophore and ammonia production. These fungal isolates were able to control the pathogen establishment with their enzymatic activity. Endophytic ability of these isolates will be further examined in pot culture to test their biocontrol efficacy.','-','Bhagyashree K.B., N. Umashankar, Raveendra H.R., L. Krishna Naik, N. Earanna and P.S. Benherlal (2023). Bio Control Efficacy of Fungal Endophytes of Finger Millet Landraces against Blast Pathogen (Pyricularia grisea). Biological Forum – An International Journal, 15(3): 610-613.'),(6381,'150','Impact of Dimensional Analysis Teaching Strategy on Reducing Medication Errors in B.Sc. Nursing Students','Manjinder Kaur, Parvesh Saini and Gopal Singh Charan','Impact-of-Dimensional-Analysis-Teaching-Strategy-on-Reducing-Medication-Errors-in-B.Sc.-Nursing-Students-Gopal-Singh-Charan-95.pdf','',1,'Medication errors are a significant and pervasive issue in healthcare, contributing to increased morbidity and mortality rates. Nurses primarily aim to promote and enhance human health. Medication errors, which are a prevalent issue affecting patient care, pose a significant threat to health worldwide. A quasi-experimental study was conducted to evaluate the effectiveness of a teaching strategy that involved using the dimensional analysis approach for drug dose calculation (DDCP), with the aim of reducing medication errors among B.Sc. nursing students in Amritsar. Purposive sampling was used to select 182 nursing students. The result showed a statistically significant difference in the medication calculation errors related to DDCP posttest scores between the two groups (U = 0.001, p < 0.05). Hence, it can be deduced that the intervention applied in the experimental group led to a significant reduction in DDCP medication calculation errors when compared to the control group. The researcher encountered challenges that nursing students had a lack of familiarity with dimensional analysis, and the process was time-consuming and mathematically complex, which could lead to errors in medication dosing. The study highlighted that using dimensional analysis as a teaching strategy has the potential to significantly reduce medication errors in nursing students by improving their ability to accurately calculate medication dosages','Medication errors, nursing students, dimensional analysis','The study concluded that the implemented teaching strategy effectively improved B.Sc. nursing students\' knowledge of dimensional analysis for drug dose calculation, reducing medication errors and enhancing patient care quality. The results emphasize the importance of incorporating effective teaching strategies in nursing education to develop competent students. This study contributes to nursing education knowledge and can guide the development of strategies to improve students\' skills and ultimately, patient outcomes and healthcare quality.','-','Manjinder Kaur, Parvesh Saini and Gopal Singh Charan (2023). Impact of Dimensional Analysis Teaching Strategy on Reducing Medication Errors in B.Sc. Nursing Students. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 15(3): 614-617.'),(6382,'150','Genetic Variability Studies for Yield and Yield Contributing Traits in Niger (Guizotia abyssinica L. f. Cass)','Pushpa H.D., Sujatha M., Meghana D., Helan Baby Thomas, Chinnappa Reddy A., Hussain Basha, Basamma H., Rajani Bisen and Vishnuvardhan Reddy A. ','Genetic-Variability-Studies-for-Yield-and-Yield-Contributing-Traits-in-Niger-(Guizotia-abyssinica-L.-f.-Cass)-Pushpa-HD-96.pdf','',1,'Niger (Guizotia abyssinica L. f. Cass) seed oil is considered to be one of the best edible oils due to its high content of poly unsaturated fatty acid. In India, niger crop is mainly grown by tribals on marginal, unproductive, waste lands under rainfed conditions with minimal inputs. Till now, limited research has been done on understanding the existing genetic diversity in niger germplasm. Thus, the present study was conducted to assess the genetic variability and phylogenetic relationship among 208 niger genotypes based on six major agronomic traits. Results indicated that there is a significant variation (p< 0.05) observed among 208 accessions. Coefficient of variation was highest for seed yield per plant, followed by number of capitula per plant. The difference between phenotypic coefficient of variation and genotypic coefficient of variation is highest for seed yield per plant which implies that this trait is highly influenced by the environment. The maximum variations present among the studied accessions were captured in three principle components and they were grouped in to two clusters.','Variability, Genetic diversity, Cluster analysis, Principal components, Niger','The present study on variability analysis concluded that seed yield and number of capitula have high coefficient of variation. Thus, selecting these traits would be effective for transferring characters to next generation. A high difference was observed between PCV and GCV for seed yield, indicating that the direct selection for this trait is not viable. The high heritability for the oil content indicated that direct selection is highly effective for this trait. From the multivariate analysis, it is concluded that 208 niger accessions with five checks are included in two clusters with a cumulative variation of 61.99% indicating to have large variation, revealing that these accessions could be used as trait-specific donors for niger improvement programme.','-','Pushpa H.D., Sujatha M., Meghana D., Helan Baby Thomas, Chinnappa Reddy A., Hussain Basha, Basamma H., Rajani Bisen and Vishnuvardhan Reddy A. (2023). Genetic Variability Studies for Yield and Yield Contributing Traits in Niger (Guizotia abyssinica L. f. Cass). Biological Forum – An International Journal, 15(3): 618-624.'),(6383,'150','Evaluation of Phytochemical constituents and Antioxidant Activity of Opuntia ficus-indica L. cladode extracts','Ingale M.G., Kamble V.A. and Maheshwari A.A.','Evaluation-of-Phytochemical-constituents-and-Antioxidant-Activity-of-Opuntia-ficus-indica-L.-cladode-extracts-Ingale-MG-97.pdf','',4,'Opuntia ficus-indica L. (Cactus), commonly referred to as prickly pear or nopal cactus, is an excellent source of minerals, dietary fiber, vitamins and various phytochemicals. The present study is aimed to assess the phytochemical analysis and antioxidant potential of cladode extracts of opuntia ficus indica L. Phytochemical analysis showed the presence of significant amount of phenolics, flavonoids and tannins in cladode extracts. Among all the tested extracts, acetone cladode extract showed highest phenolic content of 25.20 ± 0.30 mg GAE/gm of dry sample. Acetone cladode extract showed highest flavonoid content of 10.30  1.11 mg CE/g of dry samples. Methanolic cladode extract was found to contain highest tannin content of 7.80 ± 0.24 mg GAE/g of dry samples. The antioxidant activity of the extracts was determined by DPPH free radical scavenging method. The highest antioxidant activity was recorded in ethanol and acetone cladode extract with the percentage inhibition of 78.27  1.22 and 57.90  1.78 respectively. Six different compounds with antioxidant potential were isolated from the acetone, methanol, ethanol and petroleum ether extracts using thin layer chromatography. GC-MS analysis of acetonic cladode extract showed the presence of Hexadecanoic acid (synonym – Palmitic acid). Compound Limonene dioxide 2 was found in methanol cladode extract. Ethanol extracts showed the presence of 1) 3, 5-Bis (trimethylsiloxy) benzoic acid, trimethylsilyl ester 2) 1, 2- Benzenedicarboxylic acid, dioctyl ester (CAS) Dioctyl phthalate and 3) Hydrocinnamic acid, benzyldimethylsilyl ester as an antioxidant compound. 5,7 dimethyloctahydrocoumarin 1 was found as an antioxidant in petroleum ether extract. The challenge in the present study was to isolate these antioxidant compounds in pure form, but thin layer chromatography based antioxidant assay by using DPPH method resulted in to better isolation of these bioactive compounds. The present study revealed and identified the bioactive compounds from opuntia Ficus indica L. cladodes which have potential as a strong antioxidant and can be key to the discovery of new antimicrobials.','Cactus, Opuntia, Cladode, Antioxidant','Opuntia ficus indica L. cladodes are found to be an excellent source of phytochemicals. Cladodes were found to be abundant in total phenolic, total flavonoid and tannin content. Cladodes also demonstrated significant antioxidant activity. Positive correlation was observed between antioxidant activity and TPC and TFC of cladode extracts of Opuntia ficus indica L. Our findings demonstrated that the presence of bioactive compounds like hexadecanoic acid, Limonene dioxide 2, 3, 5-Bis (trimethylsiloxy) benzoic acid, Hydrocinnamic acid, benzyldimethylsilyl ester, 5,7 dimethyloctahydrocoumarin 1 in Opuntia ficus indica L. cladodes were solely responsible for exhibiting antioxidant properties. These compounds can be considered promising future source of antioxidant and antimicrobial agents in Opuntia ficus indica L. plant. Hence, cladode extracts may confer economic and health benefits and could be utilized as nutraceuticals and food preservatives.','-','Ingale M.G., Kamble V.A. and Maheshwari A.A. (2023). Evaluation of Phytochemical constituents and Antioxidant Activity of Opuntia ficus-indica L. cladode extracts. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 15(3): 625-631.'),(6384,'152','Mathematical Modelling of Prey and Predator Species with Two Age Group of Prey Population','V.P. Saxena and Lalita Dhurve','Mathematical Modelling of Prey and Predator Species with Two Age Group of Prey Population-VP Saxena-2.pdf','',1,'In this paper we developed mathematical model of prey and predator wild life population of finite size. We consider a prey population can be divided into two age groups. One part of prey species are adults and other part of prey species are juveniles or infants. A mathematical framework has been generated in terms of a system of nonlinear difference equations including all the significant parameters. The solutions are worked out in terms of finite polynomial. Numerical computations have been made for the change of populations in successive generations and different values of the parameters. Graphs have been plotted to depict the comparative variations.','Migration, Juveniles, nth generation, mathematical','1. Our model tries to describe the population of prey and predators for different generations based on the birth rate, death rate and interaction between these two species. The model can be utilized to predict the population growth of such interacting species in a confined environment. \r\n2. The food availability for prey population has been considered to be significantly high which shows that there is no competition among prey population for primary food sources. However, this assumption may not match with actual realities and competition for food might be a crucial factor which future research studies might like to take in to account. The future research study should focus on realistic food availability for prey population which will have a moderating effect on their growth rate of prey population as competition increases. It will subsequently result in stagnant growth rate of predator population with time.\r\n3. Interestingly our mathematical formalism depicts strong dependence of growth of predators upon the food availability (i.e. prey population) not only for current generation but also all for previous generations. The increasing prey population across the generations creates a huge increase in the population of predators. Hence the growth of predator varies slowly in the beginning and growth rate increases across the generation.\r\n4. The population growth rate of prey as well as predator increases slowly in the beginning but subsequently picks up. It is primarily because of the fact that food availability for the predator grows with time which results in faster effective growth rate in subsequent generation.\r\n5. The generation dependant migration and its consequence on the evolution of single wild life species as depicted in Saxena (2011) are interestingly applicable in the Prey-Predator dynamics as well. However, the generation dependant migration is replaced by some other generation dependant terms with altogether different physical significance [14].\r\nOur study has ignored the external factors which might affect the population dynamics of any ecosystem. Such effects have been studied in some other contexts [15]. It would be interesting to include the effect of pollution in the evolution of Prey and Predators Models. Future research studies may like to include this interesting possibility. Further the stability analysis of the prey predator dynamics which has been extensively studied in several other contexts can be included in our mathematical formalism [16].\r\n','-','V.P. Saxena and Lalita Dhurve (2022). Mathematical Modelling of Prey and Predator Species with Two Age Group of Prey Population. International Journal on Emerging Technologies, 13(2): 06–11.'),(6385,'153','Herbal Nanoparticles to Control Fertility and Regulation: A Review','Suman Kumari, Ashish Kumar Kansotiya, Neha Bharti, Prity Yadav and\r\nPratap Chand Mali \r\n','Herbal Nanoparticles to Control Fertility and Regulation A Review-Suman Kumari-1.pdf','',1,'Nowadays rapidly and continuously increasing population is creating a significant problem with adverse social, economic, personal, and health outcomes and environmental damage. There are many options available in the market for birth control. Due to the side effects of allopathic or synthetic medicine, herbal medicines are becoming popular day by day since herbal drugs are found safe, economical, and readily available for therapeutic uses. Medicinal plants are regarded as rich resources of traditional medicines; many modern medicines are produced from these plants. The usefulness of herbal medicines can be increased with the help of nanoparticles. A nanoparticle can be defined as a particle of matter that is between 1- 100 nanometers in diameter. Nanoparticles have several properties that distinguish them from bulk materials simply by size, chemical reactivity, absorption, and biological mobility. Herbal nanoparticles are also used in anticancer, anti-diabetic, antimicrobial and antioxidant drugs. Plants have various metabolites that can cause potent antifertility and fertility. This is high time when active components of herbal plants should be further investigated for their antifertility activity. This review aims to provide glimpses and emphasize the importance of herbal nanoparticles in fertility control.','Population, nanoparticles, plants, antifertility, anticancer','The main aim of this review is to focus on developing an herbal drug for fertility regulation with the help of nanotechnology so that it can act on a molecular basis for fertility control.','-','Suman Kumari, Ashish Kumar Kansotiya, Neha Bharti, Prity Yadav and Pratap Chand Mali* (2023). Herbal Nanoparticles to Control Fertility and Regulation: A Review. International Journal on Emerging Technologies, 14(1): 01–08.'),(6386,'150','Role of Earthworms and Actinomycetes in Ecofriendly Degradation of Floral Waste via Vermicomposting and Antimicrobial Potential of Actinomycetes','Shobha Shoucheand Deepika Tiwari','Role-of-Earthworms-and-Actinomycetes-in-Ecofriendly-Degradation-of-Floral-Waste-via-Vermicomposting-and-Antimicrobial-Potential-of-Actinomycetes-Deepika-Tiwari-98.pdf','',4,'The increasing volume and complexity of waste associated with the modern economy is posing a severe threat to the ecosystem and public health. On the other hand, antimicrobial resistance (AMR) is one of the most important worldwide public health issues of this century. The utilization of naturally existing microorganisms in bioremediation procedures, which use contaminated areas and dangerous organic chemical residues to be removed, is constantly developing. Actinomycetes have grown in significance since they are crucial to the recycling of organic debris and the creation of new drugs and enzymes. It is possible to use many Actinomycetes genera to bioconvert underused organic waste into highly valuable chemical compounds. This study was conducted to isolate actinomycetes capable of producing waste-degrading enzymes from floral waste vermicompost. In this study, floral waste was decomposed using the technique of vermicomposting. The floral wastes and cow dung in a ratio of 1:1 (50% each) were fed to Eisenia fetida earthworms for 45-60 days, keeping 100% floral waste and 100% cowdung as control. The actinomycetes were isolated and characterized morphologically using the dilution technique on starch casein-agar media. A total of six isolates were selected for enzymatic and antimicrobial screening based on their abundance. The amylase, protease, and peptonization-coagulation activities were determined through a screening procedure. All selected strains demonstrated enzyme production. Actinomycetes growth patterns and mycelial coloration were documented. The cultural and morphological analysis identified actinomycetes genera as Streptomyces. The actinomycetes isolated from floral waste were found to be promising microorganisms for the production of antibacterial and antifungal antibiotics. Also, the use of a microbial consortium was found to be the best option for faster degradation of waste.','Floral Waste, vermicomposting, actinomycetes, enzyme production, antibiotic production, microbial consortium','Vermicomposting technology could be broadly used for the management and recycling of nirmalaya or floral wastes, lowering the bulk and level of pollution at the generation site. It could be the best organic fertilizer for producing organic vegetables, organic fruits, and ornamental plants. Since vermicompost produces a high population of beneficial microflora, its application to cultivated land will also increase their population, increasing soil fertility and reducing pathogenic microorganisms, and the analysis will let us know the microbial diversity mainly involved in the decomposition process, which will be beneficial to prepare a microbial consortium culture that can be used to achieve even faster decomposition in a short period of time. Apart from bioremediation, actinomycetes also play an important role as biocontrol agents. At present, there is a need to find novel antimicrobial-producing strains as the pre-existing drugs have failed due to the development of resistance among the microorganisms. The present study is also a small contribution towards meeting this need. The study showed that actinomycetes are important agents in turning waste into a resource that can be used to produce antibiotics of medicinal value and enzymes of commercial importance.','-','Shobha Shouche and Deepika Tiwari (2023). Role of Earthworms and Actinomycetes in Ecofriendly Degradation of Floral Waste via Vermicomposting and Antimicrobial Potential of Actinomycetes. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 15(3): 632-636.'),(6387,'150','Correlation Studies for Yield Attributing Traits in Cauliflower (Brassica oleracea L. var. botrytis)','Vivek Thapliyal, Lalit Bhatt, Dhirendra Singh, S.K. Maurya and N.K. Singh','Correlation-Studies-for-Yield-Attributing-Traits-in-Cauliflower-(Brassica-oleracea-L.-var.-botrytis)-Vivek-Thapliyal-99.pdf','',4,'For crop improvement, having access to varied parental lines is crucial. Yield being a complex and polygenic trait is influenced by number of component characters. Study on correlation between yield and its component characters may be helpful in making selection of superior genotypes. Thus, an attempt was made to estimate genotypic and phenotypic correlation by conducting experiment at Vegetable Research Centre, G.B. Pant University of Agriculture and Technology, Pantnagar, Udham Singh Nagar (U.K.) during 2019. 43 genotypes of cauliflower were grown in Randomized Block Design. The study was primarily focused on assessing correlation coefficient analysis. For each parameter, the genotypic correlation coefficient was greater than the matching phenotypic correlation coefficient. Curd yield per hectare was shown to be extremely positive and significantly correlated with marketable curd weight, net curd weight, number of leaves per plant, and gross plant weight according to estimates of phenotypic and genotypic correlation. Hence, selection for these traits may be feasible to enhance breeding programmes like hybridization and yield.','Cauliflower, Genotypic correlation, Phenotypic correlation, curd yield','Curd production per hectare was shown to be extremely positive and significantly connected with marketable curd weight, net curd weight, curd diameter, number of leaves per plant, and gross plant weight, according to estimates of phenotypic and genotypic correlation. As a result, selection for these traits may be possible to increase yield. It is therefore possible to draw the conclusion that the genotypic and phenotypic correlation parameter could be taken into account for the formation of elite hybrids through heterosis breeding or for the establishment of inbred lines after pure line selection in subsequent generations. ','-','Vivek Thapliyal, Lalit Bhatt, Dhirendra Singh, S.K. Maurya and N.K. Singh (2023). Correlation Studies for Yield Attributing Traits in Cauliflower (Brassica oleracea L. var. botrytis). Biological Forum – An International Journal, 15(3): 637-639.'),(6388,'150','Bioanalytical Method Development and Validation of Metformin HCl and Repaglinide in Bulk and Combined Dosage Form in Human Plasma by using UV Spectroscopy','K. Bhavya Sri, Samreen Begum, D. Suchitra, V. Narmada and M. Sumakanth','Bioanalytical-Method-Development-and-Validation-of-Metformin-HCl-and-Repaglinide-in-Bulk-and-Combined-Dosage-Form-in-Human-Plasma-by-using-UV-Spectroscopy-K-Bhavya-Sri-100.pdf','',4,'A simple, rapid, accurate, precise, and robust method has been developed and validated for estimating Repaglinide and Metformin HCl in human plasma. Method: The Protein precipitation method was used for obtaining metformin and repaglinide from serum, using ethyl acetate and 0.1N hydrochloric acid. The solvent used was Acetonitrile: water (70:30). The isosbestic point was found to be at 245.5 nm. The challenges in the study were the availability of serum and extraction of drug from the serum. Results: Extraction efficiency for Metformin HCl and Repaglinide was found to be 95.4% and 96.8% respectively. The precision was in terms of %CV which was found to be less than 2%. LLOQ and ULOQ were found to be 1.66:0.06 and 12.5:0.5 respectively. All the validation parameters like linearity, precision, accuracy, LLOQ, ULOQ, LOD, and LOQ were performed according to ICH guideline M 10. % Assay was done by using the simultaneous equation method. All the parameters were found to be within the limits. The proposed UV method can be successfully applied for the estimation of metformin HCl and Repaglinide in human plasma. As diabetic patients are increasing day by day so there is a need to develop a method for simultaneously estimating two drugs i.e., Metformin HCl and Repaglinide in human plasma. The method has been done in UV hence the method is economic and the method can be further extended to HPLC, LC-MS, 2D-LC, and further hyphenated techniques.','Bioanalytical method development, Extraction, Human plasma, Metformin HCl, Repaglinide, UV-Visible Spectrophotometer',' A simple, economic, rapid, precise, and accurate Spectrophotometric method has been developed and validated for quantitative estimation of Metformin HCl and Repaglinide (500:2) in human plasma. Extraction of drugs from plasma has been done by protein precipitation. All the validation parameters like Specificity, LLOQ, ULOQ, precision, accuracy, LOQ, and LOD have been performed according to ICH guidelines Q10 M. All validation parameters were confirmed to be within their respective limitations. Hence the developed method can be successfully used for quantitative estimation of metformin HCl and Repaglinide in combined tablet dosage form in human plasma using UV-spectroscopy.','-','K. Bhavya Sri, Samreen Begum, D. Suchitra, V. Narmada and M. Sumakanth (2023). Bioanalytical Method Development and Validation of Metformin HCl and Repaglinide in Bulk and Combined Dosage Form in Human Plasma by using UV Spectroscopy. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 15(3): 640-644.'),(6389,'150','Seasonal Variation in the Levels of Heavy Metals in Surface Water of River Basantar and various Tissues of Barilius vagra, J&K','Sapana Jangral, Monika Sharma, Kunal Sharma, Anita Sharma and Roopma Gandotra','Seasonal-Variation-in-the-Levels-of-Heavy-Metals-in-Surface-Water-of-River-Basantar-and-various-Tissues-of-Barilius-vagra,-J&K-Sapana-Jangral-101.pdf','',4,'The present study was conducted to evaluate the concentration of heavy metals (in ppm) of Cu, Zn, Fe, and Pb in water samples and various tissues (muscle, gonads, gills, and intestine) of Barilius vagra collected from the river Basantar, Samba, India. The declining trend of Fe>Zn>Cu>Pb was seen in the average concentration of the examined metals in surface water. The findings indicated that Fe was accumulated most and Pb least in river water. The trend of accumulation of zinc in different tissues of fish was found to be gonads>intestine>muscle>gills. The distribution of copper in different tissues of B. vagra followed the order: intestinal >gonads> muscle >gills. The trend of distribution of iron in different tissues was intestine>gills>muscle>gonads. The order of accumulation of metals in different tissues emerged as intestinal>gills>gonads>muscle. Further, the order of accumulation of different metals was observed to be Fe>Zn>Cu>Pb in muscle, gonads, and intestine, while in gill tissue it followed the order Fe>Zn>Pb>Cu. The order of accumulation of studied metals might be a result of the fact that different metals tend to accumulate differently in tissues according to their active role in physiological processes. Although the bioaccumulation of heavy metals at the experimental sites did not exceed the acceptable limits recommended by agencies such as FAO and WHO. The present results showed an increasing trend of accumulation during the second year of study, which unquestionably poses a serious threat to the aquatic organism’s ability to survive in the study area. The situation will worsen and may result in the loss of the valuable fish diversity if timely remedial measures are not taken. Therefore, industrial discharges should be cleaned before entering the river, and fish fauna should be regularly inspected to resolve this serious issue.','Barilius vagra, Heavy metals, Bioaccumulation, Pollution','Present study revealed that the concentration of all studied metal viz. Fe, Zn, Cu and Pb in surface water were within permissible limits except Fe which was found above the permissible limits. Further, in fish tissues the concentration of metals in different tissues (Muscle, Gonad, Intestine, gills) were within permissible limits and more metal accumulation was observed in non-edible tissues like gonads, intestine, and gills thus affecting the fish physiology, development and reproduction of fish. It was observed in the present study that bioconcentration of heavy metals found higher during the second year of study due to increase in the pollution level. Further low concentration of metals in edible tissue i.e. muscle was observed during the present study, so consumption of fish from river Basantar is still safe. But if metal concentration goes on increasing in the river water, it may cause impact on human beings in near future. So, in order to monitoring and evaluation of ecological condition of fishes, such type of fish accumulation pattern can be helpful. ','-','Sapana Jangral, Monika Sharma, Kunal Sharma, Anita Sharma and Roopma Gandotra (2023). Seasonal Variation in the Levels of Heavy Metals in Surface Water of River Basantar and various Tissues of Barilius vagra, J&K. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 15(3): 645-654.'),(6390,'150','Characterization of Wood and Bamboo Biochar, and their effect on Yield and Quality of Ricebean (Vigna umbellata) in Dystrudept','Yabi Gadi, Y.K. Sharma, A.P. Singh, Avini-e Nakhro, M.M. Shulee Ariina and Sibino Dolie','Characterization-of-Wood-and-Bamboo-Biochar,-and-their-effect-on-Yield-and-Quality-of-Ricebean-(Vigna-umbellata)-in-Dystrudept-Gadi-Y-97.pdf','',1,'Ricebean (Vigna umbellata) is a grain legume cultivated in the hilly areas of Northeastern India and may be adversely affected by soil acidity. Soil incorporation of biochar along with pig manure has the potential to mitigate soil acidity by decreasing soil exchangeable acid cations thereby improving soil fertility. A field experiment was conducted during 2019-2020 and 2020-2021 to study the effect of wood and bamboo biochar on ricebean yield, nutrient content and its uptake, and on soil properties under acidic soil conditions. Biochar produced from pyrolyzed wood of Teak (Tectona grandis) and bamboo (Bambusa tulda) was soil applied at the rate of 2.5 and 5.0 t ha-1, with or without pig manure and recommended dose of fertilizer. Types of biochar, and the nutritional value of pig manure alongside RDF significantly enhanced the seed, stover yield, nutrient content and nutrient uptake of ricebean. Rising cost of commercial fertilizers added with increased environmental risk make the use of organic waste in agriculture an attractive method from the point of view of nutrient cycling. Thus, the present investigation hypothesized that wood and bamboo biochar along with pig manure application could enhance the productivity and nutrient concentration of ricebean by mitigating the acid soil.','Biochar, ricebean, yield, nutrient content, base saturation, wood biochar and bamboo biochar','Findings of the present investigation revealed the positive influence of biochar application along with RDF and pig manure, which improved the soil base saturation, increased nutrient uptake, mineral composition that have bettered the yield of ricebean under acidic conditions. Yield increment in ricebean could be pertinent to the liming effect of biochar, meanwhile the higher nutrient content and uptake is evidence of the bioavailability of nutrients post biochar application. As observed from the outcome of the investigation, combined application of RDF + 2.0 t ha-1 pig manure + 5.0 t ha-1 wood biochar may be recommended for getting better yield of ricebean in Dystrudepts of Nagaland.','-','Yabi Gadi, Y. K. Sharma, A.P. Singh, Avini-e Nakhro, M.M. Shulee Ariina and Sibino Dolie (2023). Characterization of Wood and Bamboo Biochar, and their Effect on Yield and Quality of Ricebean (Vigna umbellata) in Dystrudept. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 15(3): 625-631.'),(6391,'150','Role of Earthworms and Actinomycetes in Ecofriendly Degradation of Floral Waste via Vermicomposting and Antimicrobial Potential of Actinomycetes','Shobha Shouche and Deepika Tiwari','Role-of-Earthworms-and-Actinomycetes-in-Ecofriendly-Degradation-of-Floral-Waste-via-Vermicomposting-and-Antimicrobial-Potential-of-Actinomycetes-Deepika-Tiwari-98.pdf','',1,'The increasing volume and complexity of waste associated with the modern economy is posing a severe threat to the ecosystem and public health. On the other hand, antimicrobial resistance (AMR) is one of the most important worldwide public health issues of this century. The utilization of naturally existing microorganisms in bioremediation procedures, which use contaminated areas and dangerous organic chemical residues to be removed, is constantly developing. Actinomycetes have grown in significance since they are crucial to the recycling of organic debris and the creation of new drugs and enzymes. It is possible to use many Actinomycetes genera to bioconvert underused organic waste into highly valuable chemical compounds. This study was conducted to isolate actinomycetes capable of producing waste-degrading enzymes from floral waste vermicompost. In this study, floral waste was decomposed using the technique of vermicomposting. The floral wastes and cow dung in a ratio of 1:1 (50% each) were fed to Eisenia fetida earthworms for 45-60 days, keeping 100% floral waste and 100% cowdung as control. The actinomycetes were isolated and characterized morphologically using the dilution technique on starch casein-agar media. A total of six isolates were selected for enzymatic and antimicrobial screening based on their abundance. The amylase, protease, and peptonization-coagulation activities were determined through a screening procedure. All selected strains demonstrated enzyme production. Actinomycetes growth patterns and mycelial coloration were documented. The cultural and morphological analysis identified actinomycetes genera as Streptomyces. The actinomycetes isolated from floral waste were found to be promising microorganisms for the production of antibacterial and antifungal antibiotics. Also, the use of a microbial consortium was found to be the best option for faster degradation of waste.','Floral Waste, vermicomposting, actinomycetes, enzyme production, antibiotic production, microbial consortium','Vermicomposting technology could be broadly used for the management and recycling of nirmalaya or floral wastes, lowering the bulk and level of pollution at the generation site. It could be the best organic fertilizer for producing organic vegetables, organic fruits, and ornamental plants. Since vermicompost produces a high population of beneficial microflora, its application to cultivated land will also increase their population, increasing soil fertility and reducing pathogenic microorganisms, and the analysis will let us know the microbial diversity mainly involved in the decomposition process, which will be beneficial to prepare a microbial consortium culture that can be used to achieve even faster decomposition in a short period of time. Apart from bioremediation, actinomycetes also play an important role as biocontrol agents. At present, there is a need to find novel antimicrobial-producing strains as the pre-existing drugs have failed due to the development of resistance among the microorganisms. The present study is also a small contribution towards meeting this need. The study showed that actinomycetes are important agents in turning waste into a resource that can be used to produce antibiotics of medicinal value and enzymes of commercial importance.','-','Shobha Shouche and Deepika Tiwari (2023). Role of Earthworms and Actinomycetes in Ecofriendly Degradation of Floral Waste via Vermicomposting and Antimicrobial Potential of Actinomycetes. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 15(3): 632-636.'),(6392,'150','Correlation Studies for Yield Attributing Traits in Cauliflower (Brassica oleracea L. var. botrytis)','Vivek Thapliyal, Lalit Bhatt, Dhirendra Singh, S.K. Maurya and N.K. Singh','Correlation-Studies-for-Yield-Attributing-Traits-in-Cauliflower-(Brassica-oleracea-L.-var.-botrytis)-Vivek-Thapliyal-99.pdf','',1,'For crop improvement, having access to varied parental lines is crucial. Yield being a complex and polygenic trait is influenced by number of component characters. Study on correlation between yield and its component characters may be helpful in making selection of superior genotypes. Thus, an attempt was made to estimate genotypic and phenotypic correlation by conducting experiment at Vegetable Research Centre, G.B. Pant University of Agriculture and Technology, Pantnagar, Udham Singh Nagar (U.K.) during 2019. 43 genotypes of cauliflower were grown in Randomized Block Design. The study was primarily focused on assessing correlation coefficient analysis. For each parameter, the genotypic correlation coefficient was greater than the matching phenotypic correlation coefficient. Curd yield per hectare was shown to be extremely positive and significantly correlated with marketable curd weight, net curd weight, number of leaves per plant, and gross plant weight according to estimates of phenotypic and genotypic correlation. Hence, selection for these traits may be feasible to enhance breeding programmes like hybridization and yield.','Cauliflower, Genotypic correlation, Phenotypic correlation, curd yield','Curd production per hectare was shown to be extremely positive and significantly connected with marketable curd weight, net curd weight, curd diameter, number of leaves per plant, and gross plant weight, according to estimates of phenotypic and genotypic correlation. As a result, selection for these traits may be possible to increase yield. It is therefore possible to draw the conclusion that the genotypic and phenotypic correlation parameter could be taken into account for the formation of elite hybrids through heterosis breeding or for the establishment of inbred lines after pure line selection in subsequent generations. ','-','Vivek Thapliyal, Lalit Bhatt, Dhirendra Singh, S.K. Maurya and N.K. Singh (2023). Correlation Studies for Yield Attributing Traits in Cauliflower (Brassica oleracea L. var. botrytis). Biological Forum – An International Journal, 15(3): 637-639.'),(6393,'150','Bioanalytical Method Development and Validation of Metformin HCl and Repaglinide in Bulk and Combined Dosage Form in Human Plasma by using UV Spectroscopy','K. Bhavya Sri, Samreen Begum, D. Suchitra, V. Narmada and M. Sumakanth ','Bioanalytical-Method-Development-and-Validation-of-Metformin-HCl-and-Repaglinide-in-Bulk-and-Combined-Dosage-Form-in-Human-Plasma-by-using-UV-Spectroscopy-K-Bhavya-Sri-100.pdf','',1,'A simple, rapid, accurate, precise, and robust method has been developed and validated for estimating Repaglinide and Metformin HCl in human plasma. Method: The Protein precipitation method was used for obtaining metformin and repaglinide from serum, using ethyl acetate and 0.1N hydrochloric acid. The solvent used was Acetonitrile: water (70:30). The isosbestic point was found to be at 245.5 nm. The challenges in the study were the availability of serum and extraction of drug from the serum. Results: Extraction efficiency for Metformin HCl and Repaglinide was found to be 95.4% and 96.8% respectively. The precision was in terms of %CV which was found to be less than 2%. LLOQ and ULOQ were found to be 1.66:0.06 and 12.5:0.5 respectively. All the validation parameters like linearity, precision, accuracy, LLOQ, ULOQ, LOD, and LOQ were performed according to ICH guideline M 10. % Assay was done by using the simultaneous equation method. All the parameters were found to be within the limits. The proposed UV method can be successfully applied for the estimation of metformin HCl and Repaglinide in human plasma. As diabetic patients are increasing day by day so there is a need to develop a method for simultaneously estimating two drugs i.e., Metformin HCl and Repaglinide in human plasma. The method has been done in UV hence the method is economic and the method can be further extended to HPLC, LC-MS, 2D-LC, and further hyphenated techniques.','Bioanalytical method development, Extraction, Human plasma, Metformin HCl, Repaglinide, UV-Visible Spectrophotometer','A simple, economic, rapid, precise, and accurate Spectrophotometric method has been developed and validated for quantitative estimation of Metformin HCl and Repaglinide (500:2) in human plasma. Extraction of drugs from plasma has been done by protein precipitation. All the validation parameters like Specificity, LLOQ, ULOQ, precision, accuracy, LOQ, and LOD have been performed according to ICH guidelines Q10 M. All validation parameters were confirmed to be within their respective limitations. Hence the developed method can be successfully used for quantitative estimation of metformin HCl and Repaglinide in combined tablet dosage form in human plasma using UV-spectroscopy.','-','K. Bhavya Sri, Samreen Begum, D. Suchitra, V. Narmada and M. Sumakanth (2023). Bioanalytical Method Development and Validation of Metformin HCl and Repaglinide in Bulk and Combined Dosage Form in Human Plasma by using UV Spectroscopy. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 15(3): 640-644.'),(6394,'150','Seasonal Variation in the Levels of Heavy Metals in Surface Water of River Basantar and various Tissues of Barilius vagra, J&K','Sapana Jangral, Monika Sharma, Kunal Sharma, Anita Sharma and Roopma Gandotra','Seasonal-Variation-in-the-Levels-of-Heavy-Metals-in-Surface-Water-of-River-Basantar-and-various-Tissues-of-Barilius-vagra,-J&K-Sapana-Jangral-101.pdf','',1,'The present study was conducted to evaluate the concentration of heavy metals (in ppm) of Cu, Zn, Fe, and Pb in water samples and various tissues (muscle, gonads, gills, and intestine) of Barilius vagra collected from the river Basantar, Samba, India. The declining trend of Fe>Zn>Cu>Pb was seen in the average concentration of the examined metals in surface water. The findings indicated that Fe was accumulated most and Pb least in river water. The trend of accumulation of zinc in different tissues of fish was found to be gonads>intestine>muscle>gills. The distribution of copper in different tissues of B. vagra followed the order: intestinal >gonads> muscle >gills. The trend of distribution of iron in different tissues was intestine>gills>muscle>gonads. The order of accumulation of metals in different tissues emerged as intestinal>gills>gonads>muscle. Further, the order of accumulation of different metals was observed to be Fe>Zn>Cu>Pb in muscle, gonads, and intestine, while in gill tissue it followed the order Fe>Zn>Pb>Cu. The order of accumulation of studied metals might be a result of the fact that different metals tend to accumulate differently in tissues according to their active role in physiological processes. Although the bioaccumulation of heavy metals at the experimental sites did not exceed the acceptable limits recommended by agencies such as FAO and WHO. The present results showed an increasing trend of accumulation during the second year of study, which unquestionably poses a serious threat to the aquatic organism’s ability to survive in the study area. The situation will worsen and may result in the loss of the valuable fish diversity if timely remedial measures are not taken. Therefore, industrial discharges should be cleaned before entering the river, and fish fauna should be regularly inspected to resolve this serious issue.','Barilius vagra, Heavy metals, Bioaccumulation, Pollution','Present study revealed that the concentration of all studied metal viz. Fe, Zn, Cu and Pb in surface water were within permissible limits except Fe which was found above the permissible limits. Further, in fish tissues the concentration of metals in different tissues (Muscle, Gonad, Intestine, gills) were within permissible limits and more metal accumulation was observed in non-edible tissues like gonads, intestine, and gills thus affecting the fish physiology, development and reproduction of fish. It was observed in the present study that bioconcentration of heavy metals found higher during the second year of study due to increase in the pollution level. Further low concentration of metals in edible tissue i.e. muscle was observed during the present study, so consumption of fish from river Basantar is still safe. But if metal concentration goes on increasing in the river water, it may cause impact on human beings in near future. So, in order to monitoring and evaluation of ecological condition of fishes, such type of fish accumulation pattern can be helpful. ','-','Sapana Jangral, Monika Sharma, Kunal Sharma, Anita Sharma and Roopma Gandotra (2023). Seasonal Variation in the Levels of Heavy Metals in Surface Water of River Basantar and various Tissues of Barilius vagra, J&K. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 15(3): 645-654.'),(6395,'150','Understanding the Genetic Distances among various Genotypes of Black Gram (Vigna mungo (L.) Hepper) using D2 Statistics','K. Lakshmi Prasanna, D. Ratna Babu, J. Sateesh Babu and D. Ramesh','Understanding-the-Genetic-Distances-among-various-Genotypes-of-Black-Gram-(Vigna-mungo-(L.)-Hepper)-using-D2-Statistics-K.-Lakshmi-Prasanna-102.pdf','',1,'Fifty black gram genotypes were evaluated to assess the genetic diversity and to identify desired cross combinations for development of superior hybrids or transgressive segregants. Based on Mahalanobis D2 statistics, the fifty black gram genotypes were grouped into twelve clusters. High range of variation was observed for trait contribution to the total diversity and pods per plant contributed maximum followed by seeds per pod and plant height. The fifty genotypes were grouped into twelve discrete clusters, among which cluster II was the largest with twenty genotypes followed by cluster I with fifteen genotypes and cluster III with six genotypes and remaining clusters viz., IV, V, VI, VII, VIII, IX, X, XI and XII were all solitary. The maximum per se performance for grain yield was recorded in cluster III followed by cluster IX, XI and XII and the Mahalanobis D2 distances between clusters III and clusters XI, XII & IX are 87.04, 72.94 and 43.24, respectively, indicating that these three monogenotypic clusters (XI, XII & IX) with high per se were having considerable divergence with cluster III. ','Black gram, Genetic distance, Genetic divergence, D2, Vigna mungo','The current investigation on genetic diversity study in 50 black gram genotypes revealed that there was ample variation in the material under study. The fifty genotypes were grouped in twelve clusters based on D2 statistics implying high degree of genetic diversity among them. Highest inter-cluster distance was observed between cluster VI and XII, where as lowest in between cluster XI and XII. So, selection of genotypes from diversely related clusters with respect to maximum inter-cluster distance can give rise to better transgressive segregants in following generations.','-','K. Lakshmi Prasanna, D. Ratna Babu, J. Sateesh Babu and D. Ramesh (2023). Understanding the Genetic Distances Among various Genotypes of Black Gram (Vigna mungo (L.) Hepper) using D2 Statistics. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 15(3): 655-659.'),(6396,'150','Bixin-a Diapocarotenoid as Inhibitor of Glutathione Peroxidise (GP×1): A Potential Target for Cancer Treatment: An in silico Study','Kumaraswamy Aavunuri, G. Shyam Prasad and T. Christopher Reuben','Bixin-a-Diapocarotenoid as-Inhibitor-of-Glutathione-Peroxidise-(GP×1)-A-Potential-Target-for-Cancer-Treatment-An-in-silico-Study-Christofer-Ruben-103.pdf','',1,'Cancer is a significant health problem and leading cause of deaths worldwide. These cells are gaining resistance against different chemotherapeutic agents. Hence, exploring new targets is a continuous process. Cancer cells produce greater amount of reactive oxygen species (ROS) and for their progression and metastasis upregulation of antioxidant enzymes are required. Glutathione peroxidase (GPX) is a selenocystic –containing peroxidase enzyme which defends mammalian cells against oxidative damage by reducing hydrogen peroxides and organic hydroperoxides. The enzyme GP×1 is over expressed in various cancer cells what eliminates reactive oxygen species (ROS), weakens apoptosis and induce drug resistance promoting cancer cell survival. Exploring GP×1 inhibitors and their applications for cancer therapy is mandatory. Hence, in the present investigation GP×1 inhibition potentials of the Red pigment Bixin was investigated In silico. An advanced autodock 4.2 version was used for the study. Bixin has shown strong inhibition potentials of GP×1compared to the standard drug. Furter, DNA binding studies were also performed and strong binding of Bixin to the DNA was recorded compared to the standard drug -5-Fluoro Uracil.\r\nHence, from the binding scores, hydrogen bond interactions with the receptors, it can be concluded that the compound Bixin may be developed as a drug for treating cancers which inhibits GP×1 enzyme. However, further in vitro and in vivo investigations are required to develop Bixin as a final drug.\r\n','In silico, GP×1, Bixin, Autodock, cancer, DNA binding','In the present investigation, Glutathione peroxide (GP×1), a vital enzyme involved in minimizing oxidative stress to the cancer cells is inhibited by a red pigment produced by plant seeds which leads to death of cancer cells. Similarly, in order to find other possible targets where Bixin binds and prevents cancer cell proliferation DNA binding studies were performed and strong binding of Bixin with DNA was found when compared to the standard drug -5-fluoro uracil. Binding of Bixin to DNA interferes with the protein synthesis and replication leading to death of the cancer cells. However, further investigation in In vitro and in vivo are required to confirm.','-','Kumaraswamy Aavunuri, G. Shyam Prasad and T. Christopher Reuben (2023). Bixin-a Diapocarotenoid as Inhibitor of Glutathione Peroxidise (GP×1): A Potential Target for Cancer Treatment: An in silico Study. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 15(3): 660-664.'),(6397,'147','Screening of Rice Genotypes for Anaerobic Germination Tolerance: Identifying Potential Breeding Lines','C. Vijay Kumar Reddy, B. Pradhan, A. Anandan, Manasi Dash, K.C. Samal and R.K. Panda','Screening-of-Rice-Genotypes-for-Anaerobic-Germination-Tolerance-Identifying-Potential-Breeding-Lines-C-Vijay-Kumar-Reddy-118.pdf','',1,'Anaerobic germination is an important trait for rice cultivation in flood-prone areas. However, anaerobic germination is a complex process and requires specific adaptations in plant physiology and metabolism to tolerate the low oxygen conditions. In this study, we aimed to identify rice genotypes with high anaerobic germination tolerance through screening of a diverse panel of 103 rice accessions. The screening was conducted at ICAR – NRRI under anaerobic conditions for 21 days, and the percentage of germinated seeds, length of first internode (cm), shoot length (cm), number of leaves, root length (cm), shoot and root biomass (g), and seedling vigour index was recorded. The accessions showed a wide range of anaerobic germination tolerance, with the percentage of germinated seeds ranging from 0% to 94%. Based on the screening, we identified five genotypes Tulasiphula, Panirohi, BJ 1, Chinamali and ARC 14855 with high anaerobic germination tolerance coupled with high seedling vigour. These genotypes had a significantly higher percentage of germinated seeds under anaerobic conditions compared to the other accessions. Our findings provide useful information for rice breeding programs aimed at developing genotypes with high anaerobic germination tolerance. The identified genotypes could be used as parental lines for breeding programs, and the screening methodology could be employed for further evaluation of larger germplasm collections. Overall, the study highlights the importance of anaerobic germination tolerance for rice cultivation in flood-prone areas and provides insights into the genetic diversity of this trait in rice germplasm.','Screening, Anaerobic germination tolerance, Length of first internode, seedling vigour','The present investigation on screening rice genotypes for anaerobic germination tolerance have shown that there is considerable genetic variability in rice varieties, with some genotypes being more tolerant to anaerobic conditions than others. The tolerance of rice genotypes to anaerobic germination is an important trait in rice breeding programs, particularly in flood-prone regions, as it ensures that the crop can germinate and grow even under waterlogged conditions. The genotypes with higher germination percentage and high seedling vigour (TulasiPhula, Panirohi, BJ 1, Chinamali, ARC 14855) are crucial good seedling establishment rate and these genotypes could be selected for introgression of anaerobic germination tolerance traits into the elite cultivars through various breeding programmes to improve their adaptability seedling establishment rates in direct seeded rice (DSR) cultivation. The screening of rice genotypes for anaerobic germination tolerance is a time-consuming and labour-intensive process, but it is crucial for identifying genotypes that can withstand adverse environmental conditions. The use of molecular markers can facilitate the identification of specific genes that confer tolerance to anaerobic conditions, making the screening process more efficient.\r\nIn conclusion, the screening of rice genotypes for anaerobic germination tolerance is an important step in rice breeding programs, as it can lead to the development of rice varieties that are better adapted to flood-prone regions. The use of modern biotechnological tools, such asmolecular markers, can further enhance the efficiency of the screening process, leading to the identification of genes that confer tolerance to anaerobic conditions.\r\n','-','C. Vijay Kumar Reddy*, B. Pradhan, A. Anandan, Manasi Dash, K.C. Samal and R.K. Panda (2022). Screening of Rice Genotypes for Anaerobic Germination Tolerance: Identifying Potential Breeding Lines. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 14(4a): 687-693.'),(6398,'146','An Investigation into the Nature and Magnitude of Genetic Diversity for Anaerobic Germination Traits in Rice using Principal Component Analysis','C. Vijay Kumar Reddy, B. Pradhan, A. Anandan, Manasi Dash, K.C. Samal and R.K. Panda','An-Investigation-into-the-Nature-and-Magnitude-of-Genetic-Diversity-for-Anaerobic-Germination-Traits-in-Rice-using-Principal-Component-Analysis-C-Vijay-Kumar-Reddy-233.pdf','',1,'Anaerobic germination (AG) is a major limiting factor for the successful adoption of direct seeding in rice cultivation. Anaerobic germination in rice poses challenges such as lack of oxygen, toxicity, disease, and limited nutrient availability, but rice plants have adapted specialized mechanisms to overcome them. The development of rice cultivars tolerant to AG and early seedling vigor is an important objective under direct seeding. Multivariate analysis tools such as principal component analysis (PCA) and cluster analysis are effective for evaluating phenotypic diversity and identifying genetically distant clusters of genotypes. This study aimed to estimate the genetic diversity of anaerobic germination traits in rice using PCA. A total of 103 rice genotypes were evaluated for eight anaerobic germination traits. The PCA results revealed four principal components that accounted for 83.63% of the total variation. The first principal component (PC1) explained 32.62% of the total variation and was positively correlated with germination percentage, seedling vigour index, shoot length and length of first internode. The second principal component (PC2) explained 20.29% of the total variation and was positively correlated with shoot length, root length, and number of leaves. The third principal component (PC3) explained 17.56% of the total variation and was positively correlated with shoot length, length of first Internode, root length, number of leaves, shoot dry weight, root dry weight. The fourth principal component (PC4) explained 13.16% of the total variation and was positively correlated with shoot length and length of first internode. The PCA analysis provided valuable information on the genetic diversity of anaerobic germination traits in rice and can aid in the selection of parental genotypes for breeding programs aimed at developing rice varieties tolerant to anaerobic germination (AG).','Anaerobic germination, principal component, eigen values','Principal component analysis (PCA) is a powerful technique for analysing complex datasets related to anaerobic germination tolerance. By identifying patterns and relationships among the variables involved in the germination process, PCA can provide valuable insights into the mechanisms of anaerobic germination and help to develop effective strategies for improving crop yields under low-oxygen conditions. Some key findings that have emerged from studies using PCA to analyse anaerobic germination tolerance include the identification of specific genetic traits that are associated with tolerance, such as germination percentage, length of first internode, shoot length and root length. Overall, PCA has proven to be an essential tool for understanding the complex interactions that influence anaerobic germination tolerance, and its use is likely to continue to drive advances in crop breeding and agricultural practices in the future.','-','C. Vijay Kumar Reddy, B. Pradhan, A. Anandan, Manasi Dash, K.C. Samal and R.K. Panda (2022). An Investigation into the Nature and Magnitude of Genetic Diversity for Anaerobic Germination Traits in Rice using Principal Component Analysis. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 14(4): 1309-1314.'),(6399,'156','Water Footprint and Productivity of Lettuce with Non-conventional Water \r\nResources\r\n','Amit Biswas, Swarnali Duary, Aminul Islam and Shraddha Bhattacharjee','Water-Footprint-and-Productivity-of-Lettuce-with-Non-conventional-Water--Biswas-Amit-1.pdf','',1,'Climate change is a major global challenge in the 21st Century. The effects of climate change on water availability are well documented with projections indicating an increase in water stress due to decreasing fresh water availability, ultimately resulting in increasing non-conventional water reuse for agriculture. But, it is a great challenge to use non-conventional water resources as alternative to improve productivity with reduced water footprint by protecting human health, agriculture and environment. Hence, a field trial was carried out with lettuce plant under polycarbonate polyhouse from 1st October 2021 to 15th December 2021, with three different types of water i.e., a) Fresh Water (FW) b) Waste Water (WW) and c) Fish Pond Water (FPW) with the aim of reutilization of non-conventional water resources in an effective way. There were six pots for each water treatment having a surface radius of 11 cm and a height of 18 cm. The average temperature and relative humidity maintained during the experiment was around 26°C and 46%; respectively under polyhouse. After harvesting it was found that the weight of lettuce leaves of FW pot, FPW pot and WW pot was 161 gm, 214 gm and 310 gm; respectively and root length was of 12.5 cm, 14.5 cm and 17.1 cm; respectively. Water Productivity for FW, FPW and WW was found as 13, 26 and 39 mg/cc, respectively. Water footprints was 77, 38 and 26 cc/gm under FW, FPW and WW; respectively. Hence, the WW pot showed the highest water productivity (p<0.05) with least water footprint (p<0.05) followed by FPW and FW pot. Therefore, the WW irrigation showed the superiority in lettuce farming over other irrigation practices in this study. ','Fish Pond Water, Lettuce, Water footprint, Water productivity, Waste water','The present study compared the performance of non-conventional water resource application with fresh water for lettuce farming. The FPW and WW were taken as non-conventional water resources here. The following conclusions were drawn from this study: \r\n•The weight of lettuce leaves was found to be the highest for WW application (310 gm). \r\n•The no. of leaves was more under WW application (25 per pot) as compared to FW and FPW. \r\n•The root length was also the highest under WW application (17.10 cm). \r\n•The WP was estimated to be the highest under WW application (39 mg/cc). \r\n•The WF was the least under WW application (26 cc/gm)\r\nTherefore, this comparative study recommended WW over FW and FPW for lettuce farming. However, more researches on non-conventional water resources are required in future to validate this kind of finding for other agricultural crops in diverse environments. \r\n','-','Amit Biswas, Swarnali Duary, Aminul Islam and Shraddha Bhattacharjee (2023). Water Footprint and Productivity of Lettuce with Non-conventional Water Resources. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 15(4): 01-04.'),(6400,'156','Empowerment of Tribal Women through Desi Chicken Enterprise in Pethanaickenpalayam Block of Salem District in Tamil Nadu','N. Sri Balaji, P. Ravi, D. Jayanthi and V. Sankar','Empowerment-of-Tribal-Women-through-Desi-Chicken-Enterprise-in-Pethanaickenpalayam-Block-of-Salem-District-in-Tamil-Nadu-N-Sri-Balaji-2.pdf','',1,'The predominant objective of popularizing desi chicken backyard poultry farming in rural India is to provide better income opportunities to the poor farmers and people from indigenous communities living in remote areas especially in hilly area. Desi Chicken enterprise is a beneficial enterprise, ensuring regular income and livelihood of tribal women farmers and also can address the issues of food insecurity and malnutrition. The activities such as basic training and technical guidance to the beneficiaries of the scheme, procurement and supply of inputs such as birds, cages, feed and egg incubator along with power back up were carried out by Veterinary University Training and Research Centre, Salem. A total of 50 tribal women were selected from Sengattuputhur village and formed into 5 common livelihood Groups. Total number of birds alive at the end of one year was 3.04 ± 0.04 out of six birds supplied to each beneficiary. The age (days) at laying first egg was 169.19 ± 0.31. Hatchability (%) of eggs using egg incubator was 80.82 ± 1.21. Monthly additional income per family was INR 928± 31.87. It was concluded that the desi bird rearing is a very beneficial enterprise, ensuring additional regular income and plays the major role in empowering tribal women. ','SBGF, Desi bird enterprise, Pethanaickenpalayam block, Salem','It concluded that the desi bird rearing is a very much beneficial enterprise, ensuring additional regular income and plays the major role in empowering tribal women. ','-','N. Sri Balaji, P. Ravi, D. Jayanthi and V. Sankar (2023). Empowerment of Tribal Women through Desi Chicken Enterprise in Pethanaickenpalayam Block of Salem District in Tamil Nadu. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 15(4): 06-08.'),(6401,'156','A Study on the Effectiveness of William’s Flexion Exercises on Non-Specific Low Back Pain','Abinaya S., Manikandan M., Dhivyadharshini V. and Barathkumar S.','A-Study-on-the-Effectiveness-of-William’s-Flexion-Exercises-on-Non-Specific-Low-Back-Pain-Abinaya-3.pdf','',1,'One in three persons experience low back discomfort, which could be the highest global burden of disease. NSLBP is outlined as the rear pain results from posture that is poor due to which apt function of the muscles alters, it becomes dysfunctional after undergoing back pain. Among various acquirable options for management of low rear pain, William’s flexion exertion is one among the known methods for treating back pain. The set of exertion referred to as William’s flexion exercises is used within the study to enhance lumbar flexion and to manage low back pain by strengthening the muscles within the gluteus and abdominal regions.\r\nThe samples were collected from the physiotherapy outpatient department at AVMCH. The study comprised of patients who had non – specific LBP was chosen in accordance with the selection criteria for the study, pain prior to intervention was assessed using VAS and at the end of the final intervention of one week, the intensity of the pain was again noted. It is advised that other outcomes be added in the future to reach a higher level of dependability as this study was confined to one outcome and psychological elements were not taken into consideration. Results concluded that significant improvement in the reduction of pain following William’s flexion exercise. This study demonstrated the value of William\'s flexion exercises for people with generalized low back pain was effective.\r\n','William’s flexion exercise, Non- Specific Low back Pain and Visual Analog Scale','The present investigation came to the conclusion that William\'s flexion exercises significantly reduced discomfort after a week of intervention. Thus, people with non-specific low back pain benefit from William\'s flexion exercises.','-','Abinaya S., Manikandan M., Dhivyadharshini V. and Barathkumar S. (2023). A Study on the Effectiveness of William’s Flexion Exercises on Non-Specific Low Back Pain. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 15(4): 09-12.'),(6402,'156','Evaluation of Phytochemical constituents and Antioxidant Activity of Opuntia ficus-indica L. cladode extracts','Ingale M.G., Kamble V.A. and Maheshwari A.A.','Evaluation-of-Phytochemical-constituents-and-Antioxidant-Activity-of-Opuntia-ficus-indica-L.-cladode-extracts-Ingale-MG-4.pdf','',1,'Opuntia ficus-indica L. (Cactus), commonly referred to as prickly pear or nopal cactus, is an excellent source of minerals, dietary fiber, vitamins and various phytochemicals. The present study is aimed to assess the phytochemical analysis and antioxidant potential of cladode extracts of Opuntia ficus indica L. Phytochemical analysis showed the presence of significant amount of phenolics, flavonoids and tannins in cladode extracts. Among all the tested extracts, acetone cladode extract showed highest phenolic content of 25.20 ± 0.30 mg GAE/gm of dry sample. Acetone cladode extract showed highest flavonoid content of 10.30  1.11 mg CE/g of dry samples. Methanolic cladode extract was found to contain highest tannin content of 7.80 ± 0.24 mg GAE/g of dry samples. The antioxidant activity of the extracts was determined by DPPH free radical scavenging method. The highest antioxidant activity was recorded in ethanol and acetone cladode extract with the percentage inhibition of 78.27  1.22 and 57.90  1.78 respectively. Six different compounds with antioxidant potential were isolated from the acetone, methanol, ethanol and petroleum ether extracts using thin layer chromatography. GC-MS analysis of acetonic cladode extract showed the presence of Hexadecanoic acid (synonym – Palmitic acid). Compound Limonene dioxide 2 was found in methanol cladode extract. Ethanol extracts showed the presence of 1) 3, 5-Bis (trimethylsiloxy) benzoic acid, trimethylsilyl ester 2) 1, 2- Benzenedicarboxylic acid, dioctyl ester (CAS) Dioctyl phthalate and 3) Hydrocinnamic acid, benzyldimethylsilyl ester as an antioxidant compound. 5,7 dimethyloctahydrocoumarin 1 was found as an antioxidant in petroleum ether extract. The challenge in the present study was to isolate these antioxidant compounds in pure form, but thin layer chromatography based antioxidant assay by using DPPH method resulted in to better isolation of these bioactive compounds. The present study revealed and identified the bioactive compounds from opuntia Ficus indica L. cladodes which have potential as a strong antioxidant and can be key to the discovery of new antimicrobials.','Cactus, Opuntia, Cladode, Antioxidant','Opuntia ficus indica L. cladodes are found to be an excellent source of phytochemicals. Cladodes were found to be abundant in total phenolic, total flavonoid and tannin content. Cladodes also demonstrated significant antioxidant activity. Positive correlation was observed between antioxidant activity and TPC and TFC of cladode extracts of Opuntia ficus indica L. Our findings demonstrated that the presence of bioactive compounds like hexadecanoic acid, Limonene dioxide 2, 3, 5-Bis (trimethylsiloxy) benzoic acid, Hydrocinnamic acid, benzyldimethylsilyl ester, 5,7 dimethyloctahydrocoumarin 1 in Opuntia ficus indica L. cladodes were solely responsible for exhibiting antioxidant properties. These compounds can be considered promising future source of antioxidant and antimicrobial agents in Opuntia ficus indica L. plant. Hence, cladode extracts may confer economic and health benefits and could be utilized as nutraceuticals and food preservatives.','-','Ingale M.G., Kamble V.A. and Maheshwari A.A. (2023). Evaluation of Phytochemical constituents and Antioxidant Activity of Opuntia ficus-indica L. cladode extracts. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 15(4): 13-19.'),(6403,'156','The Effect of Raloxifene given in Post Menopausal Osteoporosis against the effects of Anti-Epileptics with the help of DEXA analysis and other Pathways','Sagarika Kabra, A.K.S. Rawat and Pranay Wal','The-Effect-of-Raloxifene-given-in-Post-Menopausal-Osteoporosis-against-the-effects-of-Anti-Epileptics-with-the-help-of-DEXA-analysis-and-other-Pathways-Sagarika-Kabra-5.pdf','',1,'The disease Epilepsy is known to be a common neurological disorder which is affecting majority of population in the whole world. The disease is caused due to many factors which includes abnormalities in brain, stroke, head injury, drug abuse, brain infection. Therefore, to treat such kind of disorders anti-epileptic drugs are used in major as well as minor quantity. By take excessive intake of anti-epileptic drugs it has shown to reduce bone density and bone mineral concentration in people who are taking these drugs on regular basis. As Anti-Epileptic Drugs have been known to be in association with negative impact on the bone health which leads to many kinds of bone disorders. Many kinds of biochemical abnormalities of bone metabolism are seen in patients taking these drugs. There were many kinds of challenges faced during the study as the Bone Mineral Density done using DEXA analysis was the measurement of soft tissue that is changes in femur and lumbar vertebrae. There was a contribution seen by the university in terms of apparatus/chemicals and other necessary requirements. \r\nAs if by seeing all the negative values it is found that the drug named Raloxifene has found to be a pre-eminent gem which has reduced the chances of bone density and other bone related disorders. \r\n','Raloxifene, Anti-epileptic, DEXA, Sodium Valproate, Phenytoin','The above results show that Raloxifene helps to prevent and treat the bone loss which is caused due to Phenytoin & Sodium Valproate as they showed a great changes of side effects on bone health and as well showed how this drug helped to prevent or stop seizures. It is shown that how raloxifene has the ability to survive from status epilepticus in female mice. ','-','Sagarika Kabra, A.K.S. Rawat and Pranay Wal (2023). The Effect of Raloxifene given in Post Menopausal Osteoporosis against the effects of Anti-Epileptics with the help of DEXA analysis and other Pathways. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 15(4): 20-24.'),(6404,'156','Improving the Nutritional and Antioxidant Properties of Broccoli Florets using Vacuum Impregnation with Ascorbic Acid and Calcium Chloride Solution','Aseeya Wahid, Saroj Kumar Giri and Lalita','Improving-the-Nutritional-and-Antioxidant-Properties-of-Broccoli-Florets-using-Vacuum-Impregnation-with-Ascorbic-Acid-and-Calcium-Chloride-Solution-Aseeya-Wahid-6.pdf','',1,'Broccoli is highly susceptible to degradation and spoilage, challenging the food industry to preserve its nutritional and sensory quality. This study we aim to address the challenge by investigating the effect of vacuum impregnation on the bioactive compounds and quality attributes of broccoli florets. The florets were impregnated with a solution of ascorbic acid and calcium chloride at different levels of vacuum pressure (20, 40, and 60 kPa); and the total phenolic content (TPC), total flavonoid content (TFC), total ascorbic acid content (AAC), total soluble solids (TSS), water activity (aw), Total chlorophyll content (TCC) and carotenoid content (CC), and antioxidant activity (AA) of treated as well as untreated samples were determined. The TPC, TFC, AAC, TCC, CC, and AA of vacuum impregnated broccoli florets increased significantly (p ≤0.05). At 0.6 bar vacuum impregnation, a significant increase in biochemical compounds was observed. The rise in TPC, TFC, and AAC could be attributed to stress caused by vacuum pressure and impregnation solution, which may have stimulated the phenylpropanoid pathways involved in these compounds\' biosynthesis. The osmotic effect of the impregnation solution could explain the increase in TSS and water activity.','Vacuum impregnation, calcium chloride, ascorbic acid, biochemical','In conclusion, vacuum impregnation with ascorbic acid and calcium chloride solution can enhance broccoli florets\' bioactive compounds and antioxidant activity. The treatment resulted in significant increases in total phenolic content, flavonoid content, ascorbic acid content, chlorophyll and carotenoid content, and antioxidant activity. These improvements may have been induced by the stress created by the vacuum pressure and impregnation solution, which stimulated the phenylpropanoid pathways involved in the biosynthesis of these compounds. Therefore, vacuum impregnation can be a promising technique for improving the nutritional value and shelf life of broccoli and other fruits and vegetables. The effects of ascorbic acid and calcium chloride on the quality and durability of VI-treated broccoli need to be better comprehended. More research is required to enhance the conditions for their use. ','-','Aseeya Wahid, Saroj Kumar Giri and Lalita (2023). Improving the Nutritional and Antioxidant Properties of Broccoli Florets using Vacuum Impregnation with Ascorbic Acid and Calcium Chloride Solution. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 15(4): 25-28.'),(6405,'156','Studies on Influence of Site Specific Nutrient Management based on Target Yield during different Growth Stages of Cabbage (Brassica oleracea var. capitata L.)','Imamsaheb S.J., Raveendra S.J., Hanchinamani C.N., Patil A.G., Basavarajappa M.P., Mallikarjun Awati and Sanjeevraddi G.R.','Studies-on-Influence-of-Site-Specific-Nutrient-Management-based-on-Target-Yield-during-Different-Growth-Stages-of-Cabbage-(Brassica-oleracea-var.-capitata-L.)-Imamsaheb-S.J.-7.pdf','',1,'The current fertiliser recommendations for cabbage frequently include fixed rates and timing of N, P, and K, over the years, such advice has remained consistent across a wide range of sectors. However, crop growing circumstances, crop and soil management, and climate, which can vary widely from field to field, season to season, and year to year, all have a significant impact on crop growth and the need for additional nutrients. It is not a primary goal of the SSNM (site specific nutrient management) approach to decrease or increase fertiliser use. Instead, it seeks to apply nutrients at the best possible rates and times in order to increase crop production and nutrient usage efficiency, which will result in a high monetary value of the harvest for each unit of fertiliser used. Sustainable agricultural management technologies should be studied in terms of increased productivity, profitability, energy saving and efficiency of agricultural inputs usage by using efficiency indices and sustainable. Field experiment was conducted at College of Horticulture, Bidar, during rabi seasons for two consecutive years (2020 and 2021) The experiment was laid out in randomized block design with three replications. The experimental results revealed that the significantly higher plant height (34.82 cm) was recorded with target yield of 40.0 tha-1 which was on par with target yield of 35.0 t ha-1 (32.56 cm). While significantly lower plant height was recorded with farmer’s practice (25.01 cm). significantly higher plant spread was recorded with target yield of 40.0 t ha-1(38.62 cm) followed by target yield of 35.0 t ha-1 (35.76 cm) as compared to rest of the treatments and significantly lower plant spread was noticed with farmer’s practice (29.75 cm), significantly higher leaf area index was noticed with target yield of 40.0 t ha-1 (0.48) when compared to rest of the target yield treatments.','Site specific nutrient management, Target yield and Growth parameters','Any genuine innovation is rendered useless, if it has no practical utility. The adaptation of technology by farmer’s being the main objective; a technology can be more easily adopted, if the farming community is convinced about its benefits. The results obtained in the present investigation revealed target yield of 40.0 t ha-1 followed by target yield of 35.0 t ha-1 are found to be most promising treatments for growth traits. ','-','Imamsaheb S.J., Raveendra S.J., Hanchinamani C.N., Patil A.G., Basavarajappa M.P., Mallikarjun Awati and Sanjeevraddi G.R. (2023). Studies on Influence of Site Specific Nutrient Management based on Target Yield during Different Growth Stages of Cabbage (Brassica oleracea var. capitata L.). Biological Forum – An International Journal, 15(4): 29-32.'),(6406,'156','Protease Isoforms of Cotton Bollworm Pectinophora gossypiella: A Biochemical Insight','Heena L. Nadaf, Ashwini K. Sirsat and Vandana K. Hivrale','Protease-Isoforms-of-Cotton-Bollworm-Pectinophora-gossypiella-A-Biochemical-Insight-Vandana-K-Hivrale-8.pdf','',1,'The cotton bollworm larva, Pectinophora gossypiella is a threat to cotton crops globally. The pest attack result in qualitative and quantitative loss. Gut proteases of pest are studied to target its digestive system for inhibition. The biochemical and electrophoretic properties of proteases from the digestive system of Pectinophora gossypiella were determined. By using a well-diffusion assay, it was confirmed that P. gossypiella gut extract contained proteases. The proteolytic activity obtained in the solution assay was 0.116 Umg. The impact of varying pH and temperatures on proteolytic activity was assessed. At pH 10 and a temperature of 50°C, it showed that proteolytic activity was at its peak. To see the isoform of proteases in gel, native PAGE gelatine zymography was used. There are a total of 8 protease isoforms in all instars. The total protein profile of P. gossypiella was also determined. There is currently no information available about the digestive proteases of P. gossypiella. Detailed insights into the gut proteases of P. gossypiella can be used to create and enhance successful pest management techniques based on protease inhibitors.','Pectinophora gossypiella, Pink bollworm, Proteases, protease isoforms, Gelatine-zymography','The presence of 8 protease isoforms suggests enormous dependency of P. gossypiella on proteases for food digestion. Any impairment in protein digestion can hamper the growth and survival of insects. The protease inhibitors are specific in action and it can inhibit to its complementary proteases only. In this view, to find a potent inhibitors against P. gossypiella, detailed knowledge of its gut proteases is required. This study provides biochemical characterization of P. gossypiella proteases along with detailed map of protease isoforms on gel. ','-','Heena L. Nadaf, Ashwini K. Sirsat and Vandana K. Hivrale (2023). Protease Isoforms of Cotton Bollworm Pectinophora gossypiella: A Biochemical Insight. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 15(4): 33-39.'),(6407,'156','Evaluation of Phytogenic Mixture on Water Intake Indices in caged Broilers','Pooja Singh, Neeraj, Ramesh Pandey, Amit Kumar Singh, Vipin Verma, Pradum and Waibhav Kumar','Evaluation-of-Phytogenic-Mixture-on-Water-Intake-Indices-in-caged-Broilers-Amit-Kumar-Singh-9.pdf','',1,'Availability of potable water is limited and is becoming lower in present day. A huge amount of water is utilised by livestock and poultry sector which creates a direct or indirect competition with human needs for availability of water. This study was conducted to evaluate the effect of phytogenic feed mixture on water intake and different efficiency ratios of utilization of water. For this experiment, 48 straight run Cobb 400 broiler chicks of same body weight were randomly distributed into three comparable groups viz. Control (no supplementation), T1 (0.25% phytogenic mixture) and T2 (0.5% phytogenic mixture). Each group contained 16 birds in 4 cross 4 replication. This study continued for 28 days. Results of this study showed that there was non- significant (P>0.05) effect of phytogenic mixture on water intake in broilers. However, there was significant (P<0.01) improvement of in water intake per unit feed intake, body weight, and body weight gain than control group broilers. It can be concluded that supplementation of phytogenic mixture in broilers may not adversely increase or decrease water intake. In addition to this, supplementation of phytogenic mixture (@0.25% and 0.50% of feed) improved different efficiency ratios of utilization of water for feed intake, body weight, and body weight gain than control group broilers.','Broilers, phytogenic mixture, water intake, water efficiency ratios','Based on the findings of this study it can be concluded that dietary supplementation of phytogenic mixture @0.25% and 0.50% in feed of broilers did not adversely increased or decreased water intake. However, it was found that phytogenic mixture @0.25% and 0.50% in feed may improve the efficiency of utilization of water in broilers for feed intake, body weight and body weight gain. In our study, there was less number of birds. Hence, we recommend conducting a study which involves more number of broilers in different rearing systems in different climatic regions. ','-','Pooja Singh, Neeraj, Ramesh Pandey, Amit Kumar Singh, Vipin Verma, Pradum and Waibhav Kumar (2023). Evaluation of Phytogenic Mixture on Water Intake Indices Incaged Broilers. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 15(4): 40-46.'),(6408,'156','Evaluation of Phytogenic Mixture on Water Intake Indices in caged Broilers','Pooja Singh, Neeraj, Ramesh Pandey, Amit Kumar Singh, Vipin Verma, \r\nPradum and Waibhav Kumar','Evaluation-of-Phytogenic-Mixture-on-Water-Intake-Indices-in-caged-Broilers-Amit-Kumar-Singh-9.pdf','',4,'Availability of potable water is limited and is becoming lower in present day. A huge amount of water is utilised by livestock and poultry sector which creates a direct or indirect competition with human needs for availability of water. This study was conducted to evaluate the effect of phytogenic feed mixture on water intake and different efficiency ratios of utilization of water. For this experiment, 48 straight run Cobb 400 broiler chicks of same body weight were randomly distributed into three comparable groups viz. Control (no supplementation), T1 (0.25% phytogenic mixture) and T2 (0.5% phytogenic mixture). Each group contained 16 birds in 4 cross 4 replication. This study continued for 28 days. Results of this study showed that there was non- significant (P>0.05) effect of phytogenic mixture on water intake in broilers. However, there was significant (P<0.01) improvement of in water intake per unit feed intake, body weight, and body weight gain than control group broilers. It can be concluded that supplementation of phytogenic mixture in broilers may not adversely increase or decrease water intake. In addition to this, supplementation of phytogenic mixture (@0.25% and 0.50% of feed) improved different efficiency ratios of utilization of water for feed intake, body weight, and body weight gain than control group broilers.','Broilers, phytogenic mixture, water intake, water efficiency ratios','Based on the findings of this study it can be concluded that dietary supplementation of phytogenic mixture @0.25% and 0.50% in feed of broilers did not adversely increased or decreased water intake. However, it was found that phytogenic mixture @0.25% and 0.50% in feed may improve the efficiency of utilization of water in broilers for feed intake, body weight and body weight gain. In our study, there was less number of birds. Hence, we recommend conducting a study which involves more number of broilers in different rearing systems in different climatic regions. ','-','Pooja Singh, Neeraj, Ramesh Pandey, Amit Kumar Singh, Vipin Verma, Pradum and Waibhav Kumar (2023). Evaluation of Phytogenic Mixture on Water Intake Indices Incaged Broilers. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 15(4): 40-46.'),(6409,'156','Inhibitory Effect of Bioagents, Plant Extracts and Fungicides on the in vitro Growth of Asperisporium caricae (speg.) Maubl causing Papaya Black Spot Disease','Pooja S. Patel, V.B. Sanath Kumar and N. Kiran Kumar','Inhibitory-Effect-of-Bioagents,-Plant-Extracts-and-Fungicides-on-the-in-vitro-Growth-of-Asperisporium-caricae-(speg.)-Maubl-causing-Papaya-Black-Spot-Disease-Pooja-S-Patel-10-4794.pdf','',1,'Papaya (Carica papaya L.) is a tropical fruit having commercial importance because of its nutritive and medicinal value. One of the reason for the low yiled of papaya is due to the infection of Asperisporium caricae which causes black spot disease both on leaves and fruits and responsible for both pre and post harvest losses of fruits. As this disease is profoundly affecting the market value of the fruit, it is initially essential to validate an in vitro effectiveness of different botanicals and bioagents on the papaya fruit, as they are eco-friendly, cost-effective and sustainable efficient strategy to manage the disease including different chemicals for effective control of disease. Among different bioagents, Trichoderma asperellum (67.30%) inhibited highest mycelial growth of the pathogen followed by T. hamatum (62.17%), also fungal bioagents showed greater per cent of inhibition in comparison with bacterial bioagents. The plant extract Allium sativum (32.36%) was highly effective against A. caricae at 15 per cent concentration and was significantly superior over Prosopis juiflora (25.20%). Among different contact and systemic fungicides, A. caricae was completely (100%) inhibited at highest concentration (2000ppm) by chlorothalonil and even at least concentration (75 ppm) by carbendazim.','Bioagents, Black spot disease, fungicides, Papaya, Plant extracts','Plant diseases are an inherent component of an agro eco-system. So, management of these diseases is not only based on the principle of eradication, but also maintaining the damage or loss that occurs below an economic injury level. Due to the absence of resistant cultivars, use of plant extracts, bioagents and chemicals to manage the diseases is an age-old practice. When there is an outbreak of epidemic for any reason perhaps use of fungicides is one of the best choice available. Hence, these fungicides have to be used judiciously according to the need and type of organism present in an ecosystem. Besides the chemical control, biological method of control is an effective, environmentally friendly and an alternative approach for disease management. Therefore, bioassay of fungicides, bioagents and plant extracts provides a basis for preliminary evaluation against a pathogen within the shortest period of time and therefore, it will be helpful for further evaluation of fungicides, bioagents and plant extracts in field conditions.','-','Pooja S. Patel, V.B. Sanath Kumar and N. Kiran Kumar (2023). Inhibitory Effect of Bioagents, Plant Extracts and Fungicides on the in vitro Growth of Asperisporium caricae (speg.) Maubl causing Papaya Black Spot Disease. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 15(4): 47-55.'),(6410,'156','Determination of Engineering properties of Cotton Seeds for the Development of Microcontroller based Precision Planter','Lalit Manohar Yadav, Sushilendra, Sunil Shirwal, Vijayakumar Palled, Ananda N., Mareappa Hirekurubaru and Murali M. ','Determination-of-Engineering-properties-of-Cotton-Seeds-for-the-Development-of-Microcontroller-based-Precision-Planter-Lalit-Manohar-Yadav-11.pdf','',1,'Engineering properties are important in design and development of seed metering mechanism of planter which is responsible for uniform seed distribution so in this study engineering properties of the hybrid cotton seeds were determined. The conventional method to determine physical size seeds are time consuming and laborious process, whereas size determination using digital image analysis is a fast and time saving method, so in this study two methods were used to determine the physical size of hybrid cotton seeds (conventional and digital image analysis) and the outcomes of both methods were statistically analyzed. In the digital image analysis method, images of seeds were captured at 1258×1280 resolution and processed in Image J software for software estimation. The mean length, width, and thickness of cotton seeds measured with a vernier calliper were 8.55, 5.33, and 4.80 mm, respectively, and the mean length and width measured with digital image analysis were 8.76 and 5.63 mm. The spehericity of the seeds was the same for both methods, i.e., 0.70. In terms of length and width, there was a strong correlation between conventional method and digital image analysis method. The average values of moisture content, bulk density, true density, hundred seed weight, angle of repose of cotton seeds, and mild steel coefficient of friction ranged from 7.97 to 8.35 percent (w.b.), 586 to 591 kgm-3, 1000 to 1008 kgm-3, 10.43 to 10.9 g, 35.26° to 37.95°, and 0.46 to 0.65.','Vernier calliper, digital image analysis, angle of repose and coefficient of friction','In the study strong correlation was found between traditional vernier caliper method and digital image analysis method in terms of length and width of cotton seeds. The average length and width of cotton seeds in digital image analysis was slightly higher than conventional vernier caliper method. \r\nThe mean value of length, width and thickness using vernier caliper were 8.55, 5.33 and 4.80 mm and the mean value of length and width using image analysis were 8.76 and 5.63 mm. The spehericity of the seeds was same i.e., 0.70 for both the methods.\r\nMoisture content, bulk density and true density varied between 7.97 to 8.35 per cent (d.b.), 586 to 591kg m-3, 1000 to 1008 kg m-3. The average weight of hundred seeds was 10.63 g. \r\nAngle of repose was varied between 35.26° to 37.95°. Average value of coefficient of friction of mild steel was 0.55.\r\n','-','Lalit Manohar Yadav, Sushilendra, Sunil Shirwal, Vijayakumar Palled, Ananda N., Mareappa Hirekurubaru and Murali M. (2023). Determination of Engineering properties of Cotton Seeds for the Development of Microcontroller based Precision Planter. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 15(4): 56-63.'),(6411,'156','Species Diversity and Relative Abundance of Fruit Flies in Three Important Cucurbit Crops in Medziphema, Nagaland','Huirem Diana Devi, Pankaj Neog, Arensungla Pongen, K. Lalruatsangi, Martha Chakruno and Hijam Shila Devi','Species-Diversity-and-Relative-Abundance-of-Fruit-Flies-in-Three-Important-Cucurbit-Crops-in-Medziphema,-Nagaland-Pankaj-Neog-12.pdf','',1,'Fruit flies are among the most common insects that eat vegetables (Diptera: Tephritidae). To finish their development, their larvae consume the pulp or seeds of fruits, which encourages the entry of infections and an early fall of the fruits, harming fruit yield. The purpose of this study was to identify the diversity of fruit fly species associated with cucurbit crops in Medziphema, Nagaland. To study theirdiversity, three different cucurbitaceous crops viz., cucumber, pumpkin and ash gourd were grown in three different isolated farms. Methyl eugenol, cue lure and banana poison bait were used in different plastic bottle traps to attract and catch different species fruit flies to determine diversity and relative abundance. The fruit flies species recorded from different cucurbitaceous crops were Bactrocera dorsalis, Zeugodacus tau, Bactrocera tuberculata, Zeugodacus cucurbitae and Bactrocera ruiliensis (Diptera: Tephritidae). B. dorsalis was the most abundant species in all the cucurbit crops. The Shannon-Weiner diversity index (H’), Simpson diversity index (SDI) and evenness of species (EH) computed for fruit flies in three different cucurbit fields revealed that the H’ value was highest in ash gourd (1.29), while SDI value was recorded highest in cucumber (0.397) andEH value was in the range of 0.736 to 0.799 in the three cucurbits.','Cucurbits, Fruit flies, Diversity, Methyl eugenol, Cue lure','B. dorsalis was the most dominant fruit fly species among the different species of fruit flies, with the highest relative abundance percentage in all the three cucurbit crops of Medziphema area of Nagaland. The diversity of fruit flies was relatively low in all the cucurbit fields. However, they were distributed evenly as the value of evenness of species (EH) was found high in all the cucurbit fields.','-','Huirem Diana Devi, Pankaj Neog, Arensungla Pongen, K. Lalruatsangi, Martha Chakruno and Hijam Shila Devi (2023). Species Diversity and Relative Abundance of Fruit Flies in Three Important Cucurbit Crops in Medziphema, Nagaland. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 15(4): 64-69.'),(6412,'156','Species Diversity and Relative Abundance of Fruit Flies in Three Important Cucurbit Crops in Medziphema, Nagaland','Huirem Diana Devi, Pankaj Neog, Arensungla Pongen, K. Lalruatsangi, Martha Chakruno and Hijam Shila Devi','Species-Diversity-and-Relative-Abundance-of-Fruit-Flies-in-Three-Important-Cucurbit-Crops-in-Medziphema,-Nagaland-Pankaj-Neog-12.pdf','',4,'Fruit flies are among the most common insects that eat vegetables (Diptera: Tephritidae). To finish their development, their larvae consume the pulp or seeds of fruits, which encourages the entry of infections and an early fall of the fruits, harming fruit yield. The purpose of this study was to identify the diversity of fruit fly species associated with cucurbit crops in Medziphema, Nagaland. To study theirdiversity, three different cucurbitaceous crops viz., cucumber, pumpkin and ash gourd were grown in three different isolated farms. Methyl eugenol, cue lure and banana poison bait were used in different plastic bottle traps to attract and catch different species fruit flies to determine diversity and relative abundance. The fruit flies species recorded from different cucurbitaceous crops were Bactrocera dorsalis, Zeugodacus tau, Bactrocera tuberculata, Zeugodacus cucurbitae and Bactrocera ruiliensis (Diptera: Tephritidae). B. dorsalis was the most abundant species in all the cucurbit crops. The Shannon-Weiner diversity index (H’), Simpson diversity index (SDI) and evenness of species (EH) computed for fruit flies in three different cucurbit fields revealed that the H’ value was highest in ash gourd (1.29), while SDI value was recorded highest in cucumber (0.397) and EH value was in the range of 0.736 to 0.799 in the three cucurbits.','Cucurbits, Fruit flies, Diversity, Methyl eugenol, Cue lure','B. dorsalis was the most dominant fruit fly species among the different species of fruit flies, with the highest relative abundance percentage in all the three cucurbit crops of Medziphema area of Nagaland. The diversity of fruit flies was relatively low in all the cucurbit fields. However, they were distributed evenly as the value of evenness of species (EH) was found high in all the cucurbit fields.','-','Huirem Diana Devi, Pankaj Neog, Arensungla Pongen, K. Lalruatsangi, Martha Chakruno and Hijam Shila Devi (2023). Species Diversity and Relative Abundance of Fruit Flies in Three Important Cucurbit Crops in Medziphema, Nagaland. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 15(4): 64-69.'),(6413,'156','Qualitative Analysis of Bioactive Components in Microporus xanthopus (Fr.) Kuntze','K.N. Gurav and V.P. Patil','Qualitative-Analysis-of-Bioactive-Components-in-Microporus-xanthopus-(Fr.)-Kuntze-K.N.-Gurav-13.pdf','',1,'Qualitative analysis has played a crucial role in the identification of new bioactive compounds. The contributions of this study include providing a comprehensive review of the bioactive compounds found in the Polyporales and their pharmacological characteristics as well as identifying several specific compounds using mass spectroscopy. In Microporus xanthopus (Fr.) Kuntze compound identification both for positive ion and negative ion mode was done using mass spectroscopy. MS detected presence of several Phenols, Tannin, Sesquiterpenoid, Fatty acid, Macrolide, Steroid like compounds. ','Polyporales, Bioactive, Mass spectroscopy, Phenols, Tannin','This study has identified a range of compounds present in Microporus xanthopus using mass spectrometry. These compounds have diverse chemical natures and functionalities, and compounds have promising pharmacological activities with potential uses in medicine, agriculture, and other industries. The identification of these compounds highlights the potential for natural products to be developed into effective drugs for a range of conditions. ','-','K.N. Gurav and V.P. Patil (2023). Qualitative Analysis of Bioactive Components in Microporus xanthopus (Fr.) Kuntze. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 15(4): 70-82.'),(6414,'156','Effect of Packaging Materials on Shelf-Life of Transported Aonla (Emblica officinalis Gaertn.) cv. Chakaiya','Mayank, Singh Surender and Dhatterwal Gurmeet','Effect-of-Packaging-Materials-on-Shelf-Life-of-Transported-Aonla-(Emblica-officinalis-Gaertn.)-cv.-Chakaiya-Dr.-Surender-Singh-14.pdf','',1,'Owing to perishable nature of aonla fruits and improper handling, packing, transportation and processing, about 20-25 per cent losses occur before the fruits reach the consumer. In this context, an experiment on the effect of packaging material on shelf-life during transportation of aonla (Emblica officinalis Gaertn.) was conducted at CCS Haryana Agricultural University, Hisar during 2020-21. The study was aiming to assess the influence of various post-harvest packaging materials on storage behaviour of aonla fruits. Freshly harvested physiological mature fruits of aonla cv. Chakaiya of uniform size, shape, colour, free from disease and bruises were given various post-harvest treatments of packaging material (non-perforated and perforated poly bags, wooden box without cushioning, with newspaper lining, with paddy straw, with newspaper cuttings and corrugated fiber board boxes with newspaper cuttings and without cutting and plastic crate) during storage of transportation at ambient temperature condition. The data were recorded on physiological loss in weight, decay loss, fruit firmness, change in colour, injury. The non-perforated polybags was found effective in reducing physiological loss in weight, decay loss and retaining a higher level of fruit firmness, color, which helps in improving the shelf-life of aonla fruits for longer time and corrugated fiber board box with newspaper cuttings was found effective in reducing the injury level to a greater extent. Hence, non-perforated polybags, wooden box with paddy straw and corrugated fibreboard box with newspaper cuttings seem to have the potential to enhance the post-harvest life of aonla.','Aonla, Emblica officinalis, packaging material, shelf-life, transportation','The non-perforated polybags was found effective in reducing physiological loss in weight, decay loss and retaining a higher level of fruit firmness, color, which helps in improving the shelf-life of aonla fruits for longer time and corrugated fiberboard box with newspaper cuttings was found effective in reducing the injury level to a greater extent. Hence, non-perforated polybags, wooden box with paddy straw and corrugated fiber board box with newspaper cuttings seem to have the potential to enhance the post-harvest life of aonla.','-','Mayank, Singh Surender and Gurmeet (2023). Effect of Packaging Materials on Shelf-Life of Transported Aonla (Emblica officinalis Gaertn.) cv. Chakaiya. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 15(4): 83-87.'),(6415,'156','To Study the Effect of Foliar Application of Yeast and Ascorbic acid on Growth and Yield of Tomato (Lycopersicon esculantum) Plant','Bedabati Dasgupta and Hafiz Nekibur Rahman Ahmed','To-Study-the-Effect-of-Foliar-Application-of-Yeast-and-Ascorbic-acid-on-Growth-and-Yield-of-Tomato-(Lycopersicon-esculantum)-Plant-Bedabati-Dasgupta-15.pdf','',1,'Tomato (Lycopersicon esculantum) is considered as an important horticultural crop worldwide. But instead of using various technologies and cultivars the production rate of tomato is low. With the increasing demand on consumption of tomato as well as on consumption of organic crops, there is a great necessitate for using new and organic technologies to increase the yield and maintain the environmental health. Therefore the present experiment was conducted with a target to increase more quantity of tomato with the application of yeast and ascorbic acid. In our study we have given foliar spray of yeast (5 and 10g/L) and ascorbic acid (0.1 and 0.2 ml/L). The experiment was laid out in five different plots including one control; each plot consists of six to ten replicas. The parameters taken was plant height, leaves number, branches number, flowers per plant, fruits per plant, chlorophyll and carotenoid content of leaves; protein, sugar, ascorbic acid and lycopene content of the fruit. The results showed ascorbic acid treatment shows better result in comparison to increase in yield and fruit number per plant in comparison to yeast treated plants. But lowest yield was recorded in the control group.','Lycopersicon esculantum, yeast, ascorbic acid, lycopene content, Yield of Tomato','It is clear from the above experimental study that yeast and ascorbic acid both have potency in increasing the vegetative growth, yield and nutritional quality of the tomato crops. Though ascorbic acid has more potency but the effectiveness of the yeast treatment cannot be ignored and this experiment also proves a better arena for the use of bio fertilizer for the crop improvement. ','-','Bedabati Dasgupta and Hafiz Nekibur Rahman Ahmed (2023). To Study the Effect of Foliar Application of Yeast and Ascorbic acid on Growth and Yield of Tomato (Lycopersicon esculantum) Plant. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 15(4): 88-92.'),(6416,'150','Preparation and Characterisation of Silver Nanoparticles using Cissus Quadrangularis Extract and its in vitro Anti-Arthritic Activity','Koparde, A., Shete, A., Mali, D., Durgawale, T., Yeligar, V. C., Shewale, M., Akshay Kadam, A., Jadhav, R. ','Preparation-and-Characterisation-of-Silver-Nanoparticles-using-Cissus-Quadrangularis-Extract-and-its-in-vitro-Anti-Arthritic-Activity-Dr-Akshada-Koparde-104.pdf','',1,'Silver nanoparticles synthesis by green synthesis process has achieved an essential role in different fields. Silver nanoparticles synthesis using a green synthesis process has been done by the extracts of a special plant named “Cissus quadrangularis”. The synthesis of silver nanoparticles has been done by the use of FTIR and UV-V Spectroscopy. The main objective of using a green synthesis process as it is non-toxic in nature.','Silver nanoparticles, Nanotechnology, Cissus quadrangularis, Anti-arthritic activity, Physicochemical','From the above points it can be concluded that in modern technology the use of nanoparticles of silver is several. In order to safely synthesis of silver nanoparticles green synthesis technology used is crucial, that do not harm the environment. Different methods are used in the silver nanoparticles synthesis and invitro anti arthritic activity method of albumin denaturation and the method of BSA denaturation. Different spectrophotometers such as UV spectrophotometers and FTIR spectrophotometers are also used to analyze the silver nanoparticles synthesis. The formula of Debye-Scherrer is also used in this study to measure the mean size of the crystallite of silver nanoparticles. It has been seen that the mean of the crystallite of silver nanoparticles was about 24nm. Extract of aqueous of “Cissus quadrangularis” plant used as reducing and stabilizing agents in this study for the silver nanoparticle synthesis. The silver nanoparticles have an important specialization in the activity of anti-arthritic. The final outcome that is captured from this study will help in the way to increase the activity of silver nanoparticles obtained by the green synthesis process from the extract of “Cissus quadrangularis”.','-','Koparde, A., Shete, A., Mali, D., Durgawale, T., Yeligar, V. C., Shewale, M., Akshay Kadam, A., Jadhav, R. (2023). Preparation and Characterisation of Silver Nanoparticles using Cissus Quadrangularis Extract and Its in vitro Anti-Arthritic Activity. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 15(3): 665-668.'),(6417,'150','Explore Role of Antihistamines for the Treatment of Allergic Disorders','Kiran Mahajan, Wagh Bhakti, Shubhrajit Mantry, Shital Bidkar and Ganesh Dama','Explore-Role-of-Antihistamines-for-the-Treatment-of-Allergic-Disorders-Kiran-Mahajan-105.pdf','',1,'In terms of prevalence, most of allergic diseases conditions that last the patient\'s entire lifetime. It\'s not just that patients\' quality of life plummets, but that they miss a lot of work and are less productive as a result, driving up huge expenditures for society. Thus, finding reliable methods to treat allergic illnesses is a major concern for public health. In addition to allergists, otolaryngologists, and dermatologists, all family medicine specialists, internists, and paediatricians should do this. Antihistamines are most commonly used for allergy treatment. Asthma, eczema, and other allergic illnesses can be treated with any number of drugs already on the market, many of which have generic equivalents that receive extensive advertising. Just what is reality, anyway? What do clinical trials and large-scale observational studies tell us? Is there a standard for how well (and how safely) drugs work? Medical experts from a variety of fields came to the conclusion that mishandling patients\' allergies might have devastating consequences, and that drugs with seemingly comparable effects don\'t always have the same. Hence, a team of experts has assembled the most recent. We scoured the most up-to-date recommendations and standards from professional scientific organisations, as well as the whole corpus of scientific literature. This essay reviews that study and stresses the relevance of the patient choosing the appropriate medication for his allergies.','Histamine H1-receptor, Ist generation antihistamines, IInd generation antihistamines, Allergy, Urticaria.','Antihistamines relieve histamine-induced itching. They cure urticaria, hypersensitive conjunctivitis, and rhinitis. Newer antihistamines are less sedative. Several safe and effective second-generation H1-antihistamines address allergies. Levocetirizine and fexofenadine are the strongest in vivo of the three drugs in this assessment. Nevertheless, fexofenadine\'s limited duration of action may require twice-day administration for daily protection. Levocetirizine may produce somnolence in vulnerable people. Desloratadine is weaker but has a lengthy half-life and rarely causes tiredness.','-','Kiran Mahajan, Wagh Bhakti, Shubhrajit Mantry, Shital Bidkar and Ganesh Dama (2023). Explore Role of Antihistamines for the Treatment of Allergic Disorders. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 15(3): 669-674.'),(6418,'150','Liposomes- A Nanocarrier System for Pulmonary Infection','Shubhrajit Mantry, Shivani S. Mindhe, Kiran C. Mahajan, Shital Bidkar and Ganesh Dama','Liposomes--A-Nanocarrier-System-for-Pulmonary-Infection-Dr.-Shubhrajit-Mantry-106.pdf','',1,'This review studied the efficacy of liposomal dry powder inhalation for pulmonary infections. The lungs are primary organ of pulmonary system in human and most other animals The lung infection caused by various bacterias, viruses and fungus. The pneumonia is major pulmonary infection caused by some bacterias like Streptococcus pneumoniae, Staphylococcus aureus, Bacillus subtilis, E. coli, etc. The antibiotics can be administered orally, intravenously, or in other ways. On their approach to the infection site and the disease, they travel through numerous layers of tissue. Drugs can fail to perform as intended because of diverse metabolic breakdown. Because they include both hydrophilic and hydrophobic antibiotics, liposomes are amphiphilic. The Liposomes have better features than conventional drug delivery methods, including site-targeting, sustained and regulated release, protection of the drug against degradation and removal, then superior therapeutic effectiveness, and fewer harmful side effects. The size, integrity, and number of charges of liposomes are just a few of the variables that affect their stability. Several polymers are used to prevent liposome leaking.','Antibacterial, drug delivery system, nanoliposomes, pulmonary system, vesicles','The liposomes are nanocarrier system which carry the encapsulated drug safely and effectively. Due to this system metabolic degradation of drug is avoids. The antibacterial drugs are encapsulate into the liposomes due to this bioavailability and drug retention time in blood is increase. The evaluation tests confirmed that the medication delivery method using carrier-based liposomes for treating pulmonary infections resulted in prolonged drug retention at the desired region and also decreased the systemic exposure. It increase the therapeutic index, decrease systemic adverse effects, lower dosage and frequency, and also reduce the cost of therapy. This work shows the liposomes can improve the treatment of the disease and prevent the emergence of drug resistance. However, research on at least two animal species, followed by clinical trials, are necessary to determine the function of liposomal formulations in the treatment of lung infection.','-','Shubhrajit Mantry, Shivani S. Mindhe, Kiran C. Mahajan, Shital Bidkar and Ganesh Dama (2023). Liposomes- A Nanocarrier System for Pulmonary Infection. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 15(3): 675-679.'),(6419,'150','Hatchability Performance of Emu Birds (Dromaius novaehollandiae) reared in an Organized Farm in Hilly Area','P. Tensingh Gnanaraj, Chate Amar Gangadhar, A. Sundaresan and C. Pandian','Hatchability-Performance-of-Emu--Birds-(Dromaius-novaehollandiae)-reared-in-an-Organized-Farm-in-Hilly-Area-A-Sundaresan-107.pdf','',1,'A study was conducted to evaluate the hatchability performance of emu birds (Dromaius novaehollandiae) in an organized farm in one of the hilly region of Tamil Nadu, India. The Emu farm was located 2000 meter above the mean sea level at Kodaikanal taluk, Dinidigul district, Tamil Nadu, India. The maximum and minimum temperature ranges from 17 to 20oC and 7 to 10oC respectively. About 34 pairs of emu birds were selected for this study period of 90 days. They were reared in separate breeding pens (400 sq.ft floor space per breeding pair) under semi-intensive system of housing and provided standard emu breeder ration and ad libitum water. During the study period, a total of 650 eggs were laid, from that 100 eggs were selected to study the hatchability performance. The eggs were cleaned and set in incubator for 52 days with the optimum temperatures of 96.5°F to 97.0°F (dry bulb) and relative humidity of 45 to 50 per cent (wet bulb reading 82.0°F to 84.0°F). The egg moisture loss at the time of setting and at 14th day, 21st day, 28th day, 35th day, 42nd day and 49th day of incubation period and hatch weight were recorded. On 56th day the unhatched eggs were subjected to break open study for embryonic mortality and infertile eggs if any. The egg weight loss was higher in unhatched eggs than hatched eggs. Weight loss of emu eggs during incubation (1-49 days) ranged from 11.15 ± 0.25 to 14.54 ± 78 per cent with an overall mean of 12.84 per cent in eggs that were incubated. The mean emu chick weight was recorded as 389.83g and chick weight as per cent of egg weight was recorded as 69.28 ± 0.33 per cent. The hatching performance analysis indicated that the percent fertility, dead embryo, dead in shell, hatchability on total eggs and fertile eggs were 100, 9, 12, 79 and 79 respectively. The bigger eggs had better hatchability per cent than smaller and medium size eggs. This study concluded that, better hatchability in emu birds may be obtained even in hilly regions with standard managemental condition provided proper incubation environment. ','Emu, hatchability, hilly area, production cost','This study revealed that, emu birds can be reared in temperate hilly areas and will get good egg production under standard managemental condition. More the day old emu chicks may be hatched out in artificial incubation provided with proper incubation environment conditions. Due to artificial incubation, continuous egg laying and hatching is possible without pause. Further, as the number of chick’s increases, the return on investment also increases. ','-','P. Tensingh Gnanaraj, Chate Amar Gangadhar, A. Sundaresan and C. Pandian (2023). Hatchability Performance of Emu Birds (Dromaius novaehollandiae) reared in an Organized Farm in Hilly Area. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 15(3): 680-683.'),(6420,'150','Nutritional Profile of Female Nurses in Kerala','Meera D. K., Suma Divakar and Mini Joseph','Nutritional-Profile-of-Female-Nurses-in-Kerala-Dr.-Meera DK-108.pdf','',1,'A nurse must be generally healthy to accomplish the duties of their job, which is very demanding. Their food consumption and metabolism are impacted by their stressed lives, which subsequently results in major health issues. This is a cross sectional, comparative study, using purposive sampling technique. The sample consisted of registered female nurses (N=500) aged 25-45 years working in government and private hospitals selected from rural and urban areas of Thiruvananthapuram city. Anthropometry and dietary assessment methods were used to elicit their nutritional status. One sample t test and Chi square test were used for statistical analysis Intake of nutrients was lower among respondents from urban areas compared to rural areas. The important nutrients such as iron, folates, calcium and beta carotene were lower among nurses of all categories which conforms the low intake of these nutrients among Indian women in general, making them highly vulnerable to nutritional anaemia and osteoporosis. There was prevalence of underweight among nurses along with their poor dietary habits. This present study has identified there is a large lacuna in the dietary profile of nurses. There is an urgent need by hospital managements and policy makers to ensure quality nursing service through staff development and training programs.','Nurses, shift work, nutritional status, government hospital, private hospital','Intake of nutrients was lower among respondents from urban areas compared to rural areas except for fat, beta carotene and calcium. The mean intake of nutrients among both government and private hospital nurses were lower than the prescribed RDA except protein and fat. The low intake of energy and other nutrients indicates that the intake of food was not sufficient. The important nutrients such as iron, folates, calcium and beta carotene were lower among nurses of all categories which conforms the low intake of these nutrients among Indian women in general, making them highly vulnerable to nutritional anaemia and osteoporosis. Anaemia is a major nutritional problem in India, high levels of anaemia is reported among women in India (53% of all women have anaemia as per the National Family Health Survey 2015–2016) which is of great concern. The National Health Policy (2017) tabled by the Ministry of Health and Family Welfare, Government of India, acknowledges this high burden. \r\nBesides low intake of beta carotene leads to many other nutritional problems which leads to the other major nutritional problem in India. There was a high prevalence of under nourishment and central obesity among nurses in both sectors. The intake of nutrients in nurses were lower than RDA and this might be the reason for the high prevalence of under nourishment among them. Due to the lack of time, they were not getting sufficient time to have meals and mostly they skipped their meals and depended on light snacks and drinks. \r\nStudies have reported that abdominal obesity is more in Asian population when compared to white population because of more body fat relative to weight. In the present study also, it was found so. Respondents belonged to more underweight category with high percent of abdominal obesity. Central obesity has been recognised as an independent risk factor for cardio-metabolic diseases and better predictors of cardiovascular risk than overall obesity (Bastien et al., 2014; Cameron et al., 2012). Central obesity of the nurses indicates the poor participation in physical activities. Majority of nurses after their pregnancy and delivery were not able to reduce their abdominal expansion which might be another reason for the abdominal obesity. Both underweight and central obesity is another indication of poor nutritional status of nurses. \r\n','-','Meera D. K., Suma Divakar and Mini Joseph (2022). Nutritional Profile of Female Nurses in Kerala. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 15(3): 684-689.'),(6421,'150','Review on Morphology, Distribution, Phytochemical, and Pharmacological Properties of European Privet: Ligustrum vulgare [L] [(Oleaceae)]','Reshma D., Anitha C. T. and Sheeja T. Tharakan','Review-on-Morphology,-Distribution,-Phytochemical,-and-Pharmacological-Properties-of-European-Privet-Ligustrum-vulgare-[L]-[(Oleaceae)]-Sheeja-T-Tharakan-109.pdf','',1,'Most of the plants in the genus Ligustrum (privet) are native to Asia, some of them from Australia, Europe, and North Africa. Many species in this genus have become weed in places where they were originated. The invasive nature of the plant results in displacing native vegetation, alternative ecosystem services and genetic diversity. It shows wide range of tolerance to temperatures; salinity and soil conditions are responsible for its abundance and dominance in the areas once they were found. Due to the aggressive and troublesome nature of the many species in this genus and lack of information, several research studies have focused on it to reveal the positive effects particularly the pharmacological uses of the plant material. The present paper studies the present knowledge on species Ligustrum vulgare with particular focus on its taxonomy and morphology, range of distribution, phytochemical and pharmacological properties. The review\'s most important elements underline its potential to keep widening its distribution and its positive aspects such as anti-inflammatory, antimutagenic, cytotoxic, antioxidant, anti-lipoxygenase and anti-proliferative activities.','Invasive species, Pollen allergy, Flavonoids, Antimutagenic, Anti-lipoxygenase, Environmental Impacts','The L. vulgare, common privet is a popularly decorative and invasive plant of Europe which are widespread among subtropical and temperate regions of the world. These plants are tolerant to wide range of temperatures, drought and almost all soil types. The aggressive and troublesome invasive colonized with root sprots and wisely spread by animals and birds dispersed seeds. All these contribute to its abundance and invasiveness which in turn may alter the native species, ecosystem functions and services. Traditionally, L. vulgare is still used for its anti-lipoxygenase, anti-inflammatory, hypotensive, diuretic, and anti-rheumatic features. Privet, when screened phytochemically revealed the presence of phenylethanoid glycosides, iridoids and flavonoids especially oleacein, oleuropein and echinacoside. There are many reports which mentioned the pharmacological characteristics like antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, anti-proliferative, antimutagenic, and inhibitory effect. The privet would continue to expand its distribution range with negative effect on ecosystem and biodiversity, but has positive effects by virtue of its pharmacological properties in traditional medicine.','-','Reshma D, Anitha, C. T. and Sheeja T. Tharakan (2023). Review on Morphology, Distribution, Phytochemical, and Pharmacological Properties of European Privet: Ligustrum vulgare [L] [(Oleaceae)]. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 15(3): 690-695.'),(6422,'156','Predatory Efficiency of the Semi-aquatic Bug Microvelia douglasi Scott 1874 (Hemiptera: Veliidae) with a Note on Factors Influencing its Predatory Performance','Subramanian Arivoli, Samuel Tennyson, Miriam Cecilia Vassou, Grace Marin, \r\nElangovan Vigneshkumar and Raji Kalaivani','Predatory-Efficiency-of-the-Semi-aquatic-Bug-Microvelia-douglasi-Scott-1874-(Hemiptera-Veliidae)-with-a-Note-on-Factors-Influencing-its-Predatory-Performance-Samuel-Tennyson-16.pdf','',1,'The present work centers on the predatory efficiency of Microvelia douglasi adults. To investigate the test hypothesis of this study, as well as density-dependent predation of Microvelia douglasi adults, this experiment was designed. Microvelia douglasi adults were categorized as predators, and all the larval instars of Aedes aegypti, Anopheles stephensi and Culex quinquefasciatus formed the prey. The first and second instar of the prey were categorized as ‘small prey’, while their third and fourth instar as ‘large prey’. The effectiveness of predation was investigated at prey densities of 25, 50, 75 and 100. Experiments were carried in six containers containing dechlorinated tap water wherein volume of three containers were 500mL and the volume of the other three containers were 1000mL. The predators (predator density of two) comprised of three categories (male, female, and both male and female) were introduced into the 500mL and 1000mL containers offered with each prey species separately of varied prey size. Control lacked predators to ensure mortality does not occur in any prey. All tests lasted for an hour only. Predation varied with regard to varied prey densities, however, maximum predation was at 25 prey density irrespective of prey species. The number of prey killed by Microvelia douglasi adults irrespective of their sex, prey size, and prey type varied. Highest successful attacks were noticed in female followed by male. Microvelia douglasi male and female adults preyed on 111.8 and 116.6 Aedes aegypti, 121.8 and 141.0 Anopheles stephensi, and 60.6 and 70.8 Culex quinquefasciatus, respectively, and their respective percentage of predation was 56.91 and 60.11; 53.26 and 62.13; 32.58 and 31.78. Prey consumed was high in I and II instars of all prey species, and predation was low as the prey death rate declined from III to IV instars, irrespective of the prey species. In Aedes aegypti, 237.8 and 104.0 number of small and large prey were consumed, while for Anopheles stephensi, it was 285.2 and 131.0, and in the case of Culex quinquefasciatus, it was 138.4 and 65.2, respectively, and their respective percentage of predation was 41.0 and 16.9; 42.7 and 21.0; 23.6 and 11.2. Amongst the prey types, Anopheles stephensi was more preferred, as they were found floating parallel to the water surface, and was easier to attack them, followed by Aedes aegypti and Culex quinquefasciatus. The total number of larvae predated by Microvelia douglasi adults in Aedes aegypti, Anopheles stephensi and Culex quinquefasciatus were 341.8, 416.2 and 203.6, respectively.','Microvelia douglasi, Aedes aegypti, Anopheles stephensi, Culex quinquefasciatus, predator-prey interaction, predatory performance, prey density, prey size, prey type','The current investigation portrayed the predatory performance of Microvelia douglasi adults governed by factors, viz., predator’s performance, irrespective of its, stage and sex, its prey recognition and capture, and by the type, size and density of prey.','-','Subramanian Arivoli, Samuel Tennyson, Miriam Cecilia Vassou, Grace Marin, Elangovan Vigneshkumar and Raji Kalaivani (2023). Predatory Efficiency of the Semi-aquatic Bug Microvelia douglasi Scott 1874 (Hemiptera: Veliidae) with a Note on Factors Influencing its Predatory Performance. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 15(4): 93-100.'),(6423,'156','Evaluation of Growth Performance of Weaned Rabbits under different Feeding System for Meat Production','S. Usha and M. Suganthi','Evaluation-of-Growth--Performance-of--Weaned-Rabbits-under-different-Feeding-System-for-Meat-Production-S-Usha-17.pdf','',1,'An experiment was conducted to study the growth performance of New Zealand White rabbits in different feeding system. The rabbits feeding habit caecotrophy makes to utilize high forage diet effectively upto (20%) fiber. Commercial rabbitry are scanty to feed tree leaves and improve the body weight gain. Hence the present study was carried out at Rabbit Breeding Unit, Post Graduate Research Institute in Animal Sciences, Kattupakkam to feed rabbits at different fodders. Thirty two weaned New Zealand White rabbits aged between six to seven weeks were randomly selected and divided into four groups each group (n=8). Group T1 (15parts Desmanthus + 85 parts Concentrate ), T2 (20 parts Subabul + 80 parts Concentrate), T3 (25 parts Hydroponic Maize +75 parts Concentrate) and T4 (30 parts Guinea grass + 70 parts Concentrate). The trial was conducted for 24 weeks period. The growth performance of rabbits fed on leguminous green fodder Desmanthus was found to be better than all other treatment groups. The overall weight gain was significantly higher (P≤ 0.01) in Desmanthus fed rabbits followed by subabul, hydroponic maize and guinea grass respectively. The average daily gain of rabbits highly significant (P≤ 0.01) gain in T1 groups. It is concluded the leguminous fodder Desmanthus virgatus can be included in 15% level rabbits had better weight gain in broiler rabbit production.','Rabbits, Desmanthus, Subabul, hydroponic maize, Guinea grass, Growth Performance','The result of the study, rabbits fed with desmanthus better weight gain followed by subabul and hydroponic maize. The leguminous fodder desmanthus can be included in 15% level and tree leaves subabul and hydrophonic maize upto 50% level in ration for better performance of broiler rabbit production. It was also observed that rabbits perform better when fed the tree leaves and hydrophonic fodder compared to tropical grass supplemented with concentrate.','-','S. Usha and M. Suganthi (2023). Evaluation of Growth Performance of Weaned Rabbits under different Feeding System for Meat Production. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 15(4): 101-104.'),(6424,'156','Influence of Biofertilizer and Phosphorus on Cowpea (Vigna unguiculata (L.) Walp.) Yield and Economics in the Eastern Uttar Pradesh Region','Jayshree and Umesha C.','Influence-of-Biofertilizer-and-Phosphorus-on-Cowpea-(Vigna-unguiculata-(L.)-Walp.)-Yield-and-Economics-in-the-Eastern-Uttar-Pradesh-Region-Jayshre-18.pdf','',1,'The field experiment was carried out on sandy loam soil at Crop Research Farm, Naini Agricultural Institute, Department of Agronomy, Sam Higginbottom University of Agriculture, Technology and Sciences, Prayagraj (U.P.) in the Kharif season of 2020. Randomized Blocks Design was used to set up the experiment and consisting of ten treatment combinations which were replicated thrice. There have been significant and ongoing efforts to boost pulse production by combining chemical fertilizers with biofertilizers. Despite the fact that India began commercially producing biofertilizers in the late 1970s, continued efforts are still required to create consistent yield responses in the efficient biofertilizer technology. The experiment\'s findings showed that with dual inoculation of PSB and VAM and 55 kg of phosphorus per hectare, plant height (81.09 cm), yield attributing parameters such as pods per plant (14.73), seeds per pod (8.85), test weight (80.19 g), seed yield (2.62 t/ha), stover yield (6.45 t/ha). The experiment\'s economics, or the highest gross return of INR 88390.42 per hectare and the highest net return of INR 59808.94 per hectare, were likewise achieved with the dual inoculation of PSB and VAM coupled with 55 kg of phosphate per hectare, whereas maximum benefit cost ratio (2.14) was recorded in co-inoculation of PSB and VAM with 45 kg P/ha.','Biofertilizers, Cowpea, Economics, Phosphorus, PSB, VAM, Yield','Based on the results of one-year experimentation, it may be concluded that when comparing the various treatments, it was observed that the combined inoculation of PSB and VAM with 55 kg of phosphorus per hectare produced the highest yield attributes, harvest index, seed yield, and stover output. Maximum gross return and net return ratio was also recorded with the same, while thorough going benefit cost ratio was observed in combined inoculation of PSB and VAM with 45 kg P/ha. Acceptance of any agricultural recommendation will mainly depend on its benefit cost ratio, therefore among the two treatments i.e., PSB + VAM + 55 kg P/ha and PSB + VAM + 45 kg P/ha latter treatment was found to be more economically feasible for farmer’s practice. ','-','Jayshree and Umesha C. (2023). Influence of Biofertilizer and Phosphorus on Cowpea (Vigna unguiculata (L.) Walp.) Yield and Economics in the Eastern Uttar Pradesh Region. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 15(4): 105-110.'),(6425,'147','Dissipation Pattern of Imidacoprid + Beta Cyfluthrin (Solomon 300 OD) on Dolichos Bean','S. Srinivasa Reddy, C. Narendra Reddy and Anugu Anil Reddy','Dissipation-Pattern-of-Imidacoprid-+-Beta-Cyfluthrin-(Solomon-300-OD)-on-Dolichos-Bean-S-Srinivasa-Reddy-119.pdf','',1,'Three applications of beta cyfluthrin + imidacloprid (Solomon 300 OD) @ 30 g a.i \r\nha-1 were made to Dolichos bean viz., the first application was made at the 50% blooming stage, and the second and third applications were made at intervals of 10 days. For the purpose of analysing the dissipation pattern, green pod samples were regularly taken at intervals of two hours, one day, three days, five days, seven days, and fifteen days following the third spray. After the third spray on the field bean, the initial deposits of imidacloprid, which were 1.11 mg kg-1, were reduced to 0.06 mg kg-1 by the fifth day. At 1, 3, and 5 days following the last spray, respectively, residues of 0.85, 0.34, and 0.06 mg kg-1 were measured. These residues had dissipation percentages of 23.42, 76.58, and 94.59, respectively. Whereas residues were below detectable levels (BDL) and had a 100% dissipation rate 7 days after the third spray, they had not yet been detected. The initial beta cyfluthrin (Solomon 300% OD) deposits on the field bean fell to 0.06 mg kg-1 by the fifth day following the third spray. Following the prior spray, residual concentrations of 0.33, 0.19, and 0.06 mg kg-1 were detected at 1, 3, and 5 days later, respectively. But, 7 days after the third spray, all traces were gone and could not be found (BDL).\r\n','Initial deposit, Dissipation, Waiting Periods','The waiting period for safe harvest of field bean green pods when sprayed thrice with imidacloprid (betacyfluthrin + imidacloprid at 30 g a.i. ha-1) and betacyfluthrin (betacyfluthrin + imidacloprid at 30 g a.i. ha-1) were 4.12 and 7 days, respectively. This pre harvest index values are emphasizing the importance of fixing MRL’s for safeguarding the human health.','-','S. Srinivasa Reddy, C. Narendra Reddy and Anugu Anil Reddy (2022). Dissipation Pattern of Imidacoprid + Beta Cyfluthrin (Solomon 300 OD) on Dolichos Bean. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 14(4a): 694-700.'),(6426,'156','Studies on Weather and Water quality Parameters of Manapad Estuary, Tamil Nadu, India','Arivukkarasi T. and Selva Mohan T. ','Studies-on-Weather-and-Water-quality-Parameters-of-Manapad-Estuary,-Tamil-Nadu,-India-Arivukkarasi-T-19.pdf','',1,'Pollution and environmental stress are being caused by industrial sources, urbanisation, and an expanding population worldwide. As a result, a research was done on the Manapad Estuary in Tamil Nadu, India\'s weather and water quality factors. According to the findings of the current study, the hottest months were June and September. In 2018, the months of July and August saw the highest wind speeds in Manapad. August and November experience the windiest weather. The month with the most rain was April. The wettest months were January, February, October, and December. May and July both had periods of low pressure. Sea water has a constant appearance, color, and scent throughout the study. Total dissolved solids and electrical conductivity vary across the sampling months of 2018.In the current inquiry, an average pH of 8.01 was recorded in the month of April, and the month of August had the greatest alkalinity levels. The examined months showed a significant variance in hardness, with May and November recording the highest calcium carbonate hardness readings. It was confirmed that the maximum oxygen absorption had occurred in the months of January, April, May, August, October, November, and December. The maximum calcium content was found in November. The highest levels of magnesium were recorded in February in the current research. In the current investigation, the month of October had the greatest sodium concentration. Throughout the course of 2018, there were fluctuations in the levels of potassium, with May recording the greatest levels. The ammonia levels in the Manapad Estuary during 2018 reportedly hit unusually high levels in the months of January, February, and March, according to the current study. There was no change in the amount of nitrite and the nitrate concentration varied significantly between the sampled months in the current study. In the interim, the highest chloride concentrations were found in the months of June and September. The highest sulphate levels were found in the months of January, February, March, April, September, October, November, and December in the current study. In the current investigation, the month of March had the highest concentration of phosphate (mg/l). There were more bacteria than fungi or actinomycetes. In the water samples analysed during the year of 2018, actinomycetes was the least common microbe.','Manapad, Estuary, Pollution, Weather, Physicochemical aspects, Microbial parameters','Based on the results, it can be said that the Manapad estuary has a little pollution impact. ','-','Arivukkarasi T. and Selva Mohan T. (2023). Studies on Weather and Water quality Parameters of Manapad Estuary, Tamil Nadu, India. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 15(4): 111-117.'),(6427,'156','Effect of Fish Waste Compost Pellets on Yield, Yield Attributes and Quality of Chilli','Prior to the trending deterioration in climatic factors that has imposed significant challenges in practicing effective agricultural operations, increasing faulty use of synthetic fertilizers and pesticides has inversely effected human and environmental health. It is essential to check and mitigate such inverse affects using viable techniques that can replace such harmful synthetic fertilizers/ pesticides. Present study demonstrates use of compost pellets developed from fish waste which rather would be thrown or dumped in the environment. Experimental research was conducted at KVK, Aizawl, College of Veterinary Sciences and Animal Husbandry, Central Agricultural University, Selesih, Mizoram with an objective to study the effect of fish waste compost pellets on yield, yield parameters and quality in chilli. The experiment was laid out in randomized block design (RBD) with eleven treatments and three replications consisting of control, inorganic fertilizer applications, fish waste compost pellets as basal fertilizer, foliar application of vermiwash, three different bio pesticides namely Artemesia nilgarica, Vitex negundo and Phlogacanthus pubinervius were given as foliar spray at 21 DAS (Days after sowing) and 50 DAS and 120 DAS. Treatments coupled with fish waste compost pellets have significantly performed better giving enhanced yield and other yield parameters of Chilli. Fish waste that are rather thrown or dumped in the nature can be utilized for developing compost pellets which are suitable for enhancing yield, yield attributes and quality of chilli crop.','Effect-of-Fish-Waste-Compost-Pellets-on-Yield,-Yield-Attributes-and-Quality-of-Chilli-Nongmaithem-Leindah-Devi-20.pdf','',4,'Prior to the trending deterioration in climatic factors that has imposed significant challenges in practicing effective agricultural operations, increasing faulty use of synthetic fertilizers and pesticides has inversely effected human and environmental health. It is essential to check and mitigate such inverse affects using viable techniques that can replace such harmful synthetic fertilizers/ pesticides. Present study demonstrates use of compost pellets developed from fish waste which rather would be thrown or dumped in the environment. Experimental research was conducted at KVK, Aizawl, College of Veterinary Sciences and Animal Husbandry, Central Agricultural University, Selesih, Mizoram with an objective to study the effect of fish waste compost pellets on yield, yield parameters and quality in chilli. The experiment was laid out in randomized block design (RBD) with eleven treatments and three replications consisting of control, inorganic fertilizer applications, fish waste compost pellets as basal fertilizer, foliar application of vermiwash, three different bio pesticides namely Artemesia nilgarica, Vitex negundo and Phlogacanthus pubinervius were given as foliar spray at 21 DAS (Days after sowing) and 50 DAS and 120 DAS. Treatments coupled with fish waste compost pellets have significantly performed better giving enhanced yield and other yield parameters of Chilli. Fish waste that are rather thrown or dumped in the nature can be utilized for developing compost pellets which are suitable for enhancing yield, yield attributes and quality of chilli crop.','Fish compost pellets, yield, yield attributes, quality, chilli','Present study revealed well satisfying aspects of the performance of fish waste compost pellets when used as basal fertilizer to Chilli. Its application when coupled with vermiwash and biopesticides can significantly increase plant yield, yield parameters and quality of chilli. Therefore, in the context of the finding and discussion mentioned herein, compost pellets developed from fish waste which rather would be thrown or dumped in the environment can be utilized effectively as a basal fertilizer and may be seen as a viable techniques that can replace harmful synthetic fertilizers/ pesticides.','-','Nongmaithem Leindah Devi, Athokpam Herojit Singh, Jotish Nongthombam, Santosh Kumar and K.P. Chaudhary (2023). Effect of Fish Waste Compost Pellets on Yield, Yield Attributes and Quality of Chilli. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 15(4): 118-123.'),(6428,'156','Effect of Fish Waste Compost Pellets on Yield, Yield Attributes and Quality of Chilli','Nongmaithem Leindah Devi, Athokpam Herojit Singh, Jotish Nongthombam, \r\nSantosh Kumar and K.P. Chaudhary','Effect-of-Fish-Waste-Compost-Pellets-on-Yield,-Yield-Attributes-and-Quality-of-Chilli-Nongmaithem-Leindah-Devi-20.pdf','',1,'Prior to the trending deterioration in climatic factors that has imposed significant challenges in practicing effective agricultural operations, increasing faulty use of synthetic fertilizers and pesticides has inversely effected human and environmental health. It is essential to check and mitigate such inverse affects using viable techniques that can replace such harmful synthetic fertilizers/ pesticides. Present study demonstrates use of compost pellets developed from fish waste which rather would be thrown or dumped in the environment. Experimental research was conducted at KVK, Aizawl, College of Veterinary Sciences and Animal Husbandry, Central Agricultural University, Selesih, Mizoram with an objective to study the effect of fish waste compost pellets on yield, yield parameters and quality in chilli. The experiment was laid out in randomized block design (RBD) with eleven treatments and three replications consisting of control, inorganic fertilizer applications, fish waste compost pellets as basal fertilizer, foliar application of vermiwash, three different bio pesticides namely Artemesia nilgarica, Vitex negundo and Phlogacanthus pubinervius were given as foliar spray at 21 DAS (Days after sowing) and 50 DAS and 120 DAS. Treatments coupled with fish waste compost pellets have significantly performed better giving enhanced yield and other yield parameters of Chilli. Fish waste that are rather thrown or dumped in the nature can be utilized for developing compost pellets which are suitable for enhancing yield, yield attributes and quality of chilli crop.','Fish compost pellets, yield, yield attributes, quality, chilli','Present study revealed well satisfying aspects of the performance of fish waste compost pellets when used as basal fertilizer to Chilli. Its application when coupled with vermiwash and biopesticides can significantly increase plant yield, yield parameters and quality of chilli. Therefore, in the context of the finding and discussion mentioned herein, compost pellets developed from fish waste which rather would be thrown or dumped in the environment can be utilized effectively as a basal fertilizer and may be seen as a viable techniques that can replace harmful synthetic fertilizers/ pesticides.','-','Nongmaithem Leindah Devi, Athokpam Herojit Singh, Jotish Nongthombam, Santosh Kumar and K.P. Chaudhary (2023). Effect of Fish Waste Compost Pellets on Yield, Yield Attributes and Quality of Chilli. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 15(4): 118-123.'),(6429,'156','Contribution of Profile characteristics towards Job Competence and Job Satisfaction of Agricultural Officers in Andhra Pradesh','D.V. Kusumalatha, N.S. Shivalinge Gowda, Kavyashree C. and Sagar S. Pujar','Contribution-of-Profile-characteristics-towards-Job-Competence-and-Job-Satisfaction-of-Agricultural-Officers-in-Andhra-Pradesh-Kusumalatha-21.pdf','',1,'Investment in human resource leads to rapid organizational growth. Improvement in competency and satisfaction levels of an individual in his/her implied job makes to perform his or her tasks effectively. A study was conducted in southern zone of Andhra Pradesh with a sample size of 90 respondents using disproportionate sampling. A list of 23 profile characteristics were selected after an exhaustive review of literature to know their contribution towards job competence and job satisfaction. It was observed that out of 23 variables, 14 and 12 profile characteristics had positive and significant relationship with job competence and job satisfaction, respectively. All the 23 variables together explained 74.50 per cent and 52.00 per cent of variation in job competence and job satisfaction, respectively. This shows that strengthening of certain personal and social psychological variables were likely to boost the potentials of an individual and maximize their performance in the work.','Job Competence, Job satisfaction, Extension functionaries, Relationship of job competence, Relationship of job satisfaction','The relationship between job competence, Job satisfaction and profile characteristics and of agricultural officers was investigated, where out of 23 characteristics considered for the study, 14 of them found significant with the job competence and 12 of them found significant with the job satisfaction. All the 23 variables together explained 74.50 per cent of variation in job competence and education qualification, rural urban background, achievement motivation, morale, organisational climate and e-learning have significantly contributed to the variation in job competence of AOs. All the 23 variables together explained 52.00 percent of the variation in Job satisfaction and Achievement motivation, e-learning, Training received, and Mass media exposure have significantly contributed to the variation in Job satisfaction of AOs. The computed \'F\' value of 3.108 was significant indicating that all the variables together explained a significant amount of variation in the Job satisfaction of AOs. \r\nThis shows that the improvement in an individual\'s physical, socio-economic, and psychological characteristics will definitely improve their satisfaction levels. The necessary infrastructure facilities such as proper buildings for storage of inputs, audio-visual aids, and transport facilities should be made available for all the agriculture offices where the problem is more acute. There was a positive and significant relationship between Job competence and Job satisfaction. Satisfied employees can efficiently carry out his/ her roles and responsibilities, which ultimately has a butterfly effect on the development of the farming community.\r\n','-','D.V. Kusumalatha, N.S. Shivalinge Gowda, Kavyashree C. and Sagar S. Pujar (2023). Contribution of Profile characteristics towards Job Competence and Job Satisfaction of Agricultural Officers in Andhra Pradesh. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 15(4): 124-128.'),(6430,'156','Development and Validation of an Information e-booklet to Promote Preventive Osteoporosis Measures in Indian Office Workers','Sougata Panda, Amarjeet Singh, Barkha Khurana and Seveka Bali','Development-and-Validation-of-an-Information-e-booklet-to-Promote-Preventive-Osteoporosis-Measures-in-Indian-Office-Workers-Sougata-Panda-22.pdf','',1,'Osteoporosis is a significant public health concern in India, particularly among office workers who spend long hours sitting at their desks. Information e-booklets have been used as a health promotion tool to raise awareness about osteoporosis and its preventive measures. However, the content validity of these e-booklets has not been evaluated in the Indian context.\r\nThe main objective of this study was to develop and validate an osteoporosis information e-booklet designed to promote preventive measures for osteoporosis among Indian office workers.\r\nA group of experts who specialize in osteoporosis reviewed the material presented in the e-booklet. Each element was assessed on a 3-point scale (1= agree, 2= disagree, 3= neutral), and the item content validity index (I-CVI) was computed for each component. The e-booklet underwent additional validation by fifteen office workers before finalizing the final version. \r\nThe I-CVI for the expert rating of the e-booklet ranged from 0.86 to 1, while for the target audiences (office workers), it was 0.80 to 1, indicating a high level of content validity. The kappa values ranged from 0.85 to 1.0. All items had a CVI and kappa of 0.80 or higher, indicating that the e-booklet had a high relevance, accuracy, clarity, and completeness. Valuable feedback from experts and the sample of readers was incorporated into the final iteration of the e- booklet. The study encountered challenges in obtaining reliable data on osteoporosis preventive measures among Indian office workers and designing an effective e-booklet that caters to the diverse educational backgrounds and technological literacy of the target population. However, despite these challenges, the study made significant contributions by creating a validated e-booklet with high content validity, which has the potential to raise awareness and encourage the adoption of preventive measures for osteoporosis among Indian office workers, addressing a critical knowledge gap and providing a valuable resource for promoting bone health in this population. The findings of this study highlight the importance of content validation in developing health promotion materials for specific populations, and the e-booklet can serve as a valuable tool for health promotion programs aimed at preventing osteoporosis among office workers in India.\r\n','Osteoporosis, Bone health, office workers, Validation, booklet','In conclusion, the validation of the e-booklet has shown that it is a highly valid and effective tool in promoting preventive measures for osteoporosis among Indian office workers. The e-booklet can be used by health professionals to educate their patients about osteoporosis prevention, and it can also be distributed to the public to increase awareness of the condition and its preventive measures. ','-','Sougata Panda, Amarjeet Singh, Barkha Khurana and Seveka Bali (2023). Development and Validation of an Information e-booklet to Promote Preventive Osteoporosis Measures in Indian Office Workers. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 15(4): 129-135.'),(6431,'156','Seed Discoloration in Rice: A Threat to Rice Cultivation in India','Mohammad Said, Salman Ahmad and Saba Siddiqui','Seed-Discoloration-in-Rice-A-Threat-to-Rice-Cultivation-in-India-Mohammad-Said-23.pdf','',1,'Several biotic and abiotic factors are responsible for seed discoloration in paddy (Oryza sativa L.). Among the biotic factors, several fungal pathogens play important role in producing the lusture less seeds with poor quality and such seeds are not preferred by the farming community. Some fungi responsible for discoloration in rice which produces toxins and lower down the seed as well as grain quality making unfit for human and cattle consumption. Paddy grain discoloration is an emerging threat which degrades the grain texture and quality. In the case of unpredictable climatic conditions across different ecological zones, severity of this disease also ranges from minor to major. Grain discoloration affects the grain morphology (size and shape of the grain) and significantly lower down the crop yield. Grain discoloration also affects the drying, shelling, milling and processing of the rice due to heavy weight loss. This malady causes weight loss in paddy grain that directly affects the post-harvest processing of the rice seeds and cooking quality. Now a days, Seed discoloration again proved to be a major recurring issue in the Indian coastal regions haltering the levels of desired grain production and also major challenge is to control the disease with minimal loss. In this review, we discuss the epidemiology, causes, symptoms and management of rice discoloration disease. Strategies such as better utilization of genetic resources, precise pathogen identification and improved agricultural practices should be developed and suggested to help cope up against this devastating problem.','Seed discoloration, Rice, Integrated management, Seed borne disease, pathogen','Looking at the losses caused by seed discoloration in rice and the pathogens associated with them, the management strategies should be designed by improving the cropping practices at the farmer’s level. Utilization of the genetic resources of rice (such as resistant varieties) and management of the pathogens using integrated and advanced approach like bio-intensive practices, bio fungicides and new generation formulations should be adopted which will minimize the losses caused by seed discoloration. ','-','Mohammad Said, Salman Ahmad and Saba Siddiqui (2023). Seed Discoloration in Rice: A Threat to Rice Cultivation in India. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 15(4): 136-143.'),(6432,'156','Aquasomes: A Novel Approach in Drug Delivery System for Poorly Water-Soluble Drug','Vishwas C. Bhagat, Pravin B. Awate, Dipak P. Kardile, Nilesh A. Narote, Rajkumar V. Shete and Adinath C. Bhusari','Aquasomes A Novel Approach in Drug Delivery System for Poorly Water-Soluble Drug-Pravin B Awate-24.pdf','',1,'Aquasome are novel drug delivery systems in conventional dosage forms, includes various carrier systems for developed the nanoparticles system. The aquasomes formulation are administered by oral or parenteral route. Bioactive molecules developed in delivery system like protein, hormones, vaccine, antigen, gene bind the specific site. The particle size of aquasome is 60-300 nm range with spherical shape. Structure of aquasomes comprise three layers, assembled with ceramic core coated stabilized by active biomolecules are adsorbed without modification. Carbohydrate coating provide structural stability or protect against dehydration and maintaining the property of surface exposure in targeted delivery of molecules. To enhance dose frequency of aquasomes is challenges of preparation in aquasomes, the slow antigen produces at sustained rate it has proven effective to enhance immunity against covid-19. Pharmaceutical active molecules incorporated to surface by adsorption. The sustained release process, combination of bioactive molecules and targeted molecules are delivered through aquasomes. This review article is focus on revolutionary characterization and application of aquasomes in targeted drug delivery systems.','Conventional drug delivery, Aquasomes, carrier system, bioactive molecule, Targeted molecule','The aquasomes deliver shows better biological activity and it has great solubility or enhancing property to the targeted side. The carbohydrate coat is preserving the bioactive molecules or drug interaction in formulation, it has focus on novel drug delivery system for drawbacks related in pharmaceutical agent. The crystalline nature core gives aquasome stability as broad range of molecules and better immunological response in immune system or it carries antigen, insulin or enzyme delivery, blood substitutes in hemoglobin.','-','Vishwas C. Bhagat, Pravin B. Awate, Dipak P. Kardile, Nilesh A. Narote, Rajkumar V. Shete and Adinath C. Bhusari (2023). Aquasomes: A Novel Approach in Drug Delivery System for Poorly Water-Soluble Drug. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 15(4): 144-149.'),(6433,'156','Screening Solanum germplasm (Tomato and Brinjal) and Identify Rootstocks for Resistance to Bacterial Wilt','B. Anuradha, A. Kiran Kumar, D. Laxmi Narayana, K. Venkata Laxmi, \r\nCH. Raja Goud and R. Purnima Mishra','Screening-Solanum-germplasm-(Tomato-and-Brinjal)-and-Identify-Rootstocks-for-Resistance-to-Bacterial-Wilt-B.ANURADHA-25.pdf','',1,'Ralstonia solanacearum is a soil-borne bacterial pathogen and a major limiting factor in the production of many crop plants around the world. The present study was conducted in Rabi, 2021 at the Postgraduate Research Block, Department of Vegetable Science, College of Horticulture, Sri Konda Laxman Telangana State Horticultural University, Rajendranagar, Hyderabad. The current study examined 25 genotypes for Bacterial wilt resistance at the morphological level. Twenty-five genotypes of tomato and brinjal including susceptible checks (Arka Vikas and Pusa ruby) were screened under artificial inoculation conditions in poly bags. Out of 25 genotypes, three were found highly resistant (HR) viz., Arka Keshav, Surya, Solanum torvum, one genotype i.e. LA -0490 is resistant (R), two genotypes i.e. EC-631379, LA-1589 were recorded moderately resistant (MR),one genotype i.e. EC-620509 is moderately susceptible (MS), fourteen genotypes viz., EC-620428, EC-620378, EC-620389, EC-620394, EC-631369, EC-620503, AVTO-9803, EC-620452, Money maker, Marutham, Pusarohini, Pusasheethal, PKM-1 and Arka Vikas were susceptible (S) and four genotypes i.e. EC-615055, EC-620422, EC-620441 and Pusa ruby were recorded highly susceptible (HS) to bacterial wilt. Genotypes exhibiting Bacterial wilt resistance will be grafted on to commercial variety of tomato and evaluated under open field conditions for yield, quality parameters and disease resistance under Telangana conditions.','Tomato, Brinjal, Bacterial wilt, Genotypes','Results from bacterial wilt screening revealed that Arka Keshav, Surya, Solanum torvum showed high resistance (HR), LA -0490 is resistant (R) and two genotypes i.e. EC-631379, LA-1589 were recorded moderately resistant (MR) against Ralstonia solanacearum.','-','B. Anuradha, A. Kiran Kumar, D. Laxmi Narayana, K. Venkata Laxmi, CH. Raja Goud and R. Purnima Mishra (2023). Screening Solanum germplasm (Tomato and Brinjal) and Identify Rootstocks for Resistance to Bacterial Wilt. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 15(4): 150-154.'),(6434,'156','Extension of Seed Longevity of Myristica malabarica Lam. by Optimizing Storage conditions','Suresh Kumar K.A., Anilkumar C., Ajithkumar K.G., Prajith T.M. and Amritha V.V. ','Extension-of-Seed-Longevity-of-Myristica-malabarica-Lam.-by-Optimizing-Storage-conditions-Suresh-Kumar-KA-26.pdf','',1,'Myristica malabarica is an evergreen arborescent species of the family Myristicaceae. As a major floral component of a unique but degrading ecosystem in the Western Ghats called Myristica swamp, this species is enlisted by IUCN as vulnerable. The seeds of M. malabarica are recalcitrant in nature and lost its viability within a few days of shed in normal conditions. The sensitivity of the seeds to desiccation and lower temperature imposes constraints in seeds storage for longer period. In the present study, the fresh seeds of M. malabarica were stored in three treatments (T) with different temperatures and relative humidity (RH) such as T1 (10±2°C and 25±2 % RH), T2 (18±2°C and 50±2 % RH) and T3 (10±2°C and 80±2 % RH). More than 50% of seeds kept in T1 and T3 conditions lost viability after 15 and 30 days respectively of storage (DoS), whereas T2 treatment was effective to extends the seed viability to 90 days. The seeds kept in open plastic trays at laboratory conditions (28 ± 2°C and 65 ± 2 % RH) was taken as control (C). Seed viability was tested by various parameters like seed germination, electrolyte conductivity, Total Dissolved Solutes (TDS), Dehydrogenase activity (DHA) and the level of total phenolic compounds and proline amino acid in the embryo. Data was analysed and presented correspond to means ± standard error. DMRT was carried out with SPSS, version 13.0 software. All treatments consisted of five replicates. The storage studies of M. malabarica was challenging due to their high oil content, which makes them susceptible to rancidity and fungal growth. Maintaining optimal moisture content of seed, insect and pest infestations, determination the optimal storage temperature and humidity were other major challenges during this study. The results indicate that M. malabarica seed viability can be prolonged for up to 90 days if they are stored under optimal conditions of 18 ± 2°C temperature and 50 ± 2 % RH.','Myristica malabarica, recalcitrant seed, Relative Humidity (RH), Leachate Conductivity (LC), Total Dissolved Solute (TDS), Dehydrogenase activity (DHA), Sterilised Distilled Water (SDW), Critical Moisture Temperature (CMC)','The main propagation material of M. malabarica is the seed. However, the sensitivity of recalcitrant seeds towards desiccation and freezing temperature while storing poses a major limitation to germplasm conservation. To overcome this hurdle, the seeds of M. malabarica can be stored under specific conditions of 18 ± 2°C and 50 ± 2 % RH. This recommended storage condition not only minimizes the limitations of seed storage but also proves to be a cost-effective method for the germplasm preservation of M. malabarica, thereby extending its seed longevity.','-','Suresh Kumar K.A., Anilkumar C., Ajithkumar K.G., Prajith T.M. and Amritha V.V. (2023). Extension of Seed Longevity of Myristica malabarica Lam. by Optimizing Storage Conditions. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 15(4): 155-161.'),(6435,'150','Taxonomy Studies: An Overview on Isolation and characterization of Available Resources of Marine Microalgae for Bio-fuel Production','Fairoz Basha M., Shrikanya Rao K.V.L., Govardhan Reddy G., \r\nThathapudi Daveedu and Adelina Jaya Harsha M.','Taxonomy-Studies-An-Overview-on-Isolation-and-characterization-of-Available-Resources-of-Marine-Microalgae-for-Bio-fuel-Production-M-Fairoz-Basha-110.pdf','',4,'Microalgae have been observed as a viable biomass for the manufacture of biofuels, but the scaled-up culture of these organisms has challenges regarding freshwater resource use. To overcome the restrictions of water resources, it is essential to obtain robust marine strains that can produce triacylglycerols and high-value-added metabolites.\r\nThe present study was conducted to identify microalgae from the Indian Sea and its environs which included toxified sites, tenable for biofuel production. 4 stations belong to the Nellore district (S-1 Mypadu, S-2 Kothakoduru, S-3 Nelatru, S4- Krishna Patnam) with this district is special for aquaculture industries like shrimp and fish culture also more hatcheries and processing, and Nellore beaches located in the east coast of Bay of Bengal of India. Sixty-four (64) species of microalgae were acquired in 5 terminals. On further isolation, 19 species with a process-oriented pressure choice were developed through artificial insemination cultures. This basic research provides an overview of the isolation and characterization of available resources of marine microalgae for biofuel production. \r\n','Marine Microalgae, Isolation, Taxonomy, Diatom, Bio-fuel production','Further studies are warranted to support the findings of current study, especially for large-scale algal biofuel production and it needs to become strengthened using assortment and hereditary techniques. Innovations and advancements in areas including boosting the functionality of algae to use nutrients successfully or design concepts to lessen handling demands possess the prospective to greatly boost the power balance as well as improve the general sustainability of algal biofuels. Advanced studies such as gene sequencing 18s rRNA along with DNA Bar-coding are required to be conducted for the better understanding of the usage of the mentioned species for the production of the biofuel.','-','Fairoz Basha M., Shrikanya Rao K.V.L., Govardhan Reddy G., Thathapudi Daveedu and Adelina Jaya Harsha M. (2023). Taxonomy Studies: An Overview on Isolation and characterization of Available Resources of Marine Microalgae for Bio-fuel Production. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 15(3): 696-710.'),(6436,'150','Ecotoxicological Impacts of Roundup (glyphosate 41%) in Freshwater Fish Grass Carp Ctenopharyngodon idella: Hematological, Biochemical and Enzymological Response','R. Divya, A. Jude Jebri Raj and M. Prabu','Ecotoxicological-Impacts-of-Roundup-(glyphosate-41%)-in-Freshwater-Fish-Grass-Carp-Ctenopharyngodon-idella-Hematological,-Biochemical-and-Enzymological-Response-R.-Divya-111.pdf','',4,'The chronic and sublethal effects of herbicide were anticipated to have an effect on the serum biochemical, metabolic, and enzymatical characteristics of a freshwater fish known as a grass carp Ctenopharyngodon idella. The median lethal concentration of herbicide in fish grass carp for 96 hours was found to be 0.15 mg/L. The levels of hemoglobin (Hb), hematocrit (Hct), red blood cells (RBC), white blood cells (WBC), plasma glucose, plasma protein, liver aspartate (AST) and alanine aminotransferase (ALT), and others all lowered during acute treatment (0.15 mg/l), whereas corpuscular indices like mean cell hemoglobin (MCH) and mean cell hemoglobin concentration (MCHC) enhanced in fish exposed to herbicide likewise MCHC and blood glucose levels rose over course of effects Hb, RBC, and plasma protein levels decreased in the sublethal dose (0.15 mg/l) of glyphosate. WBC, MCH, liver AST, and ALT values all had a biphasic trend. It is possible to swiftly and effectively determine the health of fish exposed to glyphosate in their aquatic habitat by altering.','Glyphosate, Grass carp Ctenopharyngodon idella, Hematological, Biochemical, Enzymological, Aspartate amino transferase (AST), Alanine amino transferase (ALT)','The results of the current study indicate that exposure to glyphosate significantly changes the hematological, biochemical, and enzymatic characteristics of grass carp Ctenopharyngodon idella in freshwater fish under both acute and sublethal conditions. The presence of this amount of glyphosate in a healthy environment will have a negative effect on the viability of fish. In findings provide a well comprehension of the toxic effects of this toxin and it suggest safe glyphosate concentrations for freshwater ecosystems and the preservation of aquatic life. As fish is a crucial source of protein for people worldwide, it is crucial to prevent the release of glyphosate into nearby bodies of water.','-','R. Divya, A. Jude Jebri Raj and M. Prabu (2023). Ecotoxicological Impacts of Roundup (glyphosate 41%) in Freshwater Fish Grass Carp Ctenopharyngodon idella: Hematological, Biochemical and Enzymological Response. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 15(3): 711-719.'),(6437,'156','Soil Erodibility Characteristics under different Land uses in Dhansiripar, Nagaland','Reshinaro Tzudir, Manoj Dutta, Sewak Ram, Rizongba Kichu and Hapemo Ngullie K.','Soil-Erodibility-Characteristics-under-different-Land-uses-in-Dhansiripar,-Nagaland-Manoj-Dutta-27.pdf','',1,'Inappropriate land use practices are one of the major causes of land degradation and are a concern for sustainable productivity. Evaluation of soil erodibility characteristics is very much important to adopt proper soil and water conservation practices for a particular location. The present study was conducted to determine the soil erodibility characteristics under different land uses in six different villages of Dhansiripar, Nagaland viz., Razhaphe, Dhansiripar, Doyapur, Kiyeto, Amaluma and Melongmen. The land uses were lowland paddy, field crop, orchard and forest. The textural class of the soils were fond as clay loam, loamy, clay and silty clay loam with clay loam being the most dominant. The dispersion ratio (DR) of surface and sub-surface soil varied from 12.63 to 20.50 and 11.30 to 20.70, respectively. The erosion index (EI) varied from 7.30 to 16.27 and 7.00 to 13.10 in surface and sub-surface soil, respectively. EI showed significant positive correlation with DR (r= 0.65*). The soil erodibility was high in the sampled soils of field crop land use, while the least erodibility was recorded in the forest land.','Dispersion ratio, erodibility, erosion index, surface soil, sub-surface soil','The study was aimed at assessing the relationship among various land uses and erodibility characteristics of the soil. The study indicated that the soils were highly erodible in nature irrespective of depths. The soils under the agriculture land use systems more particularly field crop land use system was found to be more susceptible to erosion. While forest was least vulnerable to erosion which may be attributable to their canopy cover protecting the soil from the direct impact of raindrops. Therefore, deforestation should be immediately stopped and preventive measures against erosion should be taken in order to ameliorate the rate of soil degradation and prevent further soil loss in cultivated lands.','-','Reshinaro Tzudir, Manoj Dutta, Sewak Ram, Rizongba Kichu and Hapemo Ngullie K. (2023). Soil Erodibility Characteristics under different Land uses in Dhansiripar, Nagaland. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 15(4): 162-165.'),(6438,'156','Studies on Yield Attributes in Relation to Genetic Parameters in Sesame (Sesamum indicum L.) Genotypes','Preeti Kumari, Pankaj Shah and H.P. Chaturvedi','Studies-on-Yield-Attributes-in-Relation-to-Genetic-Parameters-in-Sesame-(Sesamum-indicum-L.)-Genotypes-Preeti-Kumari-28.pdf','',1,'A field investigation was carried out to study the genetic variations of seventeen yield and yield contributing traits in 36 genotypes of sesame. The analysis of variance revealed significant differences among the genotypes for all the studied characters. Phenotypic variances were found higher than the corresponding genotypic variances for all the characters. Among all the quantitative traits, five traits manifested higher genotypic as well as phenotypic variances and present the purview of genetic improvement through direct selection. The estimation of PCV along with GCV was high for seven traits while, it was moderate for other five traits. The characters viz. plant height, stem height from base to first branch, number of capsules per plant, 1000 seed weight, stover yield per plant, biological yield per plant and protein content showed high estimates of heritability combined with high genetic advance indicating, least environmental ascendancy and preponderance of additive gene effects. Although, productivity is low in sesame but searching the traits of importance and incorporating them for the genetic enhancement in sesame can be considered as a criterion for improving seed yield in breeding programs of sesame. So, these characters can be considered as a benchmark in breeding programmes for refined improvement in seed yield of sesame.','Sesame, Genetic variability, GCV; PCV and Seed yield','The traits with high heritability and high genetic advance as percent of mean are governed by the additive gene action where simple selection is effective for breeding programmes. Considering the above result the quantitative trait number of capsules per plant and 1000 seed weight had direct effect on seed yield per plant. Thus, on the basis of the forgoing discussions the traits viz., plant height, stem height from base to first branch, number of capsules per plant, 1000 seed weight, stover yield per plant, biological yield per plant and protein content to be given more importance during selection programme for improving seed yield in breeding programs of sesame. There is a big challenge of capsules shattering problems at the ripening stage of capsules in sesame especially if there is high temperature and high humidity at that time. So this could be included in the future study of sesame. ','-','Preeti Kumari, Pankaj Shah and H.P. Chaturvedi (2023). Studies on Yield Attributes in Relation to Genetic Parameters in Sesame (Sesamum indicum L.) Genotypes. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 15(4): 166-172.'),(6439,'156','Well Being of Performing Artists: A Bio Statistical Survey','Roja Ghosh and Sarita Mishra','Well-Being-of-Performing-Artists-A-Bio-Statistical-Survey-Roja-Ghosh-29.pdf','',1,'Performing artists face unique challenges that can impact their physical and mental well-being. This article aims to provide an in-depth analysis of the well-being of performing artists through a bio statistical survey. By examining the factors that contribute to performers\' wellbeing. The young India have enough opportunities to explore the performing industry. In this current era of advanced technology and industrial society the family structure is changing day by day. This change brings many more changes in attitude of the family members as well as creates a great impact on the youth. The feeling of well-being is a distant dream for the families because all the members of family struggles for job, money power, work stress and confused about their responsibility. The competition in society, job insecurity, squeeze in job market and advanced technology creates a lonely and stressful life. Research evidence indicates the ability of dance to improve physical and mental health and wellbeing through its unique combination of creative expression, movement and social connections. This article tries to explore the wellbeing of performing artists of Odisha. Three themes emerged – barriers to wellbeing, isolation and support networks. Four crucial areas of concern were highlighted. 1) Performing arts programming. 2) Action to address the lack of affective support and training for artists/practitioners working in a health and well being context, and 3) Recognition of performing artist. It is evident that the majority of well-known dancers and performing artists passed away from a variety of terrible ailments since their quality of life was not preserved. The performing artists are facing a lot of challenges in terms health, occupation, recognition, getting opportunity and sustainable income source. They struggled hard for becoming an accomplished artist. The time spent for practice, training, and creating of identity among the artist community is real challenge for performing artists. An artist can perform well when he/she is healthy in all aspects. The current study focuses on analyzing performing artists at adolescent age, general well being in the physical, mental, psychological, social, and spiritual domains. The performing artists are the contributors of displaying artistic skills, preserver of culture and rhythms of life. They relieve the stress and strain of the society by taking the all stress and pain to body, mind and life orientations. The unique quality needs to be preserved and nurtured through proper support from family and society at large. The purpose of this study is to conduct a survey on three key aspects of performing artists, their wellbeing, socio-economic profile, health status, life orientation eating pattern.','Well being, Health, Stress, Social, Life Orientation, Performing art','A performing artist has a multi-faceted personality and is a celebrity, professional, trainer, stage performer, and entertainer. Celebrities must maintain their weight, body image, health profile, wellbeing, and especially their eating habits. In fact their food habits, they must exercise extreme caution. They have to deal with health issues, training the dance to improve their expressions, using energy while dancing, and performing artists play a vital role in our culture and entertainment industry, and their well-being is crucial to their ability to perform and contribute to society. By understanding the factors that impact performing artists\' well-being and developing strategies to promote their health and wellness, it can ensure that they can continue to thrive and bring joy to audiences around the world. Therefore, it is essential to study and research performing artists in-depth in order to bring their concerns to light and offer answers for maintaining the well-being of performing artists.','-','Roja Ghosh and Sarita Mishra (2023). Well Being of Performing Artists: A Bio Statistical Survey. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 15(4): 173-180.'),(6440,'156','Seed-Borne Mycoflora of Chilli (Capsicum annum L.) and Tomato (Solanum lycopersicum L.)\r\n','Jingme A. Sangma and Hijam Meronbala Devi','Seed-Borne-Mycoflora-of-Chilli-(Capsicum-annum-L.)-and-Tomato-(Solanum-lycopersicum-L.)-Hijam-Meronbala-Devi-30.pdf','',1,'Seed is an important input for crop production. Seed carries various types of fungi which may be pathogenic and non-pathogenic known as seed mycoflora or seed-borne fungi. Seed-borne diseases had an adverse impact on the quality of chilli and tomato production. So to determine the presence and significance of fungi on seeds, the present investigation was carried out to identify the various mycoflora associated with chilli and tomato seeds and to determine the seed health by testing via blotter paper, PDA and water agar methods. Twelve number of seed mycoflora were isolated from chilli and tomato seeds collected from the West Garo Hills district of Meghalaya and the Dimapur district of Nagaland. The identified fungi were Aspergillus niger, Aspergillus fumigatus, Aspergillus sp.1, Aspergillus sp.2, Aspergillus sp.3, Rhizopus sp., Penicillium sp., Alternaria solani, Fusarium sp.1, Fusarium sp.2, Fusarium sp.3 and Unidentified sp.1. Among these fungal species, Fusarium sp.3 (63.55%) was the most predominant fungus followed by Aspergillus niger (49.17%) and Aspergillus fumigatus (41.88%). Among the different seed health testing methods, a similar number of fungal species were recorded in blotter paper and PDA methods and the least in the water agar method.','Chilli and tomato seeds, seed borne mycoflora, seed health','The results from the present studies, we concluded that the chilli and tomato cultivars collected from West Garo Hills of Meghalaya and Dimapur districts of Nagaland states of India respectively had wide diverse seed borne mycoflora which may be either pathogenic or non-pathogenic in nature. Since tomato and chilli are the very important vegetables crops in the North Eastern regions as well as in the country as a whole, it may be inferred from the present investigations that adoption of better seed health testing is very important steps for successful cultivation of chilli and tomato.','-','Jingme A. Sangma and Hijam Meronbala Devi (2023). Seed-Borne Mycoflora of Chilli (Capsicum annum L.) and Tomato (Solanum lycopersicum L.). Biological Forum – An International Journal, 15(4): 181-190.'),(6441,'150','Taxonomy Studies: An Overview on Isolation and characterization of Available Resources of Marine Microalgae for Bio-fuel Production',' Fairoz Basha M. and Shrikanya Rao K.V.L., \r\n','Taxonomy-Studies-An-Overview-on-Isolation-and-characterization-of-Available-Resources-of-Marine-Microalgae-for-Bio-fuel-Production-M-Fairoz-Basha-110.pdf','',1,'Microalgae have been observed as a viable biomass for the manufacture of biofuels, but the scaled-up culture of these organisms has challenges regarding freshwater resource use. To overcome the restrictions of water resources, it is essential to obtain robust marine strains that can produce triacylglycerols and high-value-added metabolites.\r\nThe present study was conducted to identify microalgae from the Indian Sea and its environs which included toxified sites, tenable for biofuel production. 4 stations belong to the Nellore district (S-1 Mypadu, S-2 Kothakoduru, S-3 Nelatru, S4- Krishna Patnam) with this district is special for aquaculture industries like shrimp and fish culture also more hatcheries and processing, and Nellore beaches located in the east coast of Bay of Bengal of India. Sixty-four (64) species of microalgae were acquired in 5 terminals. On further isolation, 19 species with a process-oriented pressure choice were developed through artificial insemination cultures. This basic research provides an overview of the isolation and characterization of available resources of marine microalgae for biofuel production. \r\n','Marine Microalgae, Isolation, Taxonomy, Diatom, Bio-fuel production','From the present study the marine microalgae in the SPSR-Nellore district of Andhra Pradesh is distinctive in their quality and was determined to be a potentially economical feedstock for biofuel production further they could be cultured in seawater with high lipid yield. This paper provided an overview of the isolation and characterization of available resources of marine microalgae for biofuel production.','-','Fairoz Basha M. and Shrikanya Rao K.V.L. (2023). Taxonomy Studies: An Overview on Isolation and characterization of Available Resources of Marine Microalgae for Bio-fuel Production. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 15(3): 696-712.'),(6442,'150','Ecotoxicological Impacts of Roundup (glyphosate 41%) in Freshwater Fish Grass Carp Ctenopharyngodon idella: Hematological, Biochemical and Enzymological Response','R. Divya, A. Jude Jebri Raj and M. Prabu','Ecotoxicological-Impacts-of-Roundup-(glyphosate-41)-in-Freshwater-Fish-Grass-Carp-Ctenopharyngodon-idella-Hematological,-Biochemical-and-Enzymological-Response-R.-Divya-111.pdf','',1,'The chronic and sublethal effects of herbicide were anticipated to have an effect on the serum biochemical, metabolic, and enzymatical characteristics of a freshwater fish known as a grass carp Ctenopharyngodon idella. The median lethal concentration of herbicide in fish grass carp for 96 hours was found to be 0.15 mg/L. The levels of hemoglobin (Hb), hematocrit (Hct), red blood cells (RBC), white blood cells (WBC), plasma glucose, plasma protein, liver aspartate (AST) and alanine aminotransferase (ALT), and others all lowered during acute treatment (0.15 mg/l), whereas corpuscular indices like mean cell hemoglobin (MCH) and mean cell hemoglobin concentration (MCHC) enhanced in fish exposed to herbicide likewise MCHC and blood glucose levels rose over course of effects Hb, RBC, and plasma protein levels decreased in the sublethal dose (0.15 mg/l) of glyphosate. WBC, MCH, liver AST, and ALT values all had a biphasic trend. It is possible to swiftly and effectively determine the health of fish exposed to glyphosate in their aquatic habitat by altering.','Glyphosate, Grass carp Ctenopharyngodon idella, Hematological, Biochemical, Enzymological, Aspartate amino transferase (AST), Alanine amino transferase (ALT)','The results of the current study indicate that exposure to glyphosate significantly changes the hematological, biochemical, and enzymatic characteristics of grass carp Ctenopharyngodon idella in freshwater fish under both acute and sublethal conditions. The presence of this amount of glyphosate in a healthy environment will have a negative effect on the viability of fish. In findings provide a well comprehension of the toxic effects of this toxin and it suggest safe glyphosate concentrations for freshwater ecosystems and the preservation of aquatic life. As fish is a crucial source of protein for people worldwide, it is crucial to prevent the release of glyphosate into nearby bodies of water.','-','R. Divya, A. Jude Jebri Raj and M. Prabu (2023). Ecotoxicological Impacts of Roundup (glyphosate 41%) in Freshwater Fish Grass Carp Ctenopharyngodon idella: Hematological, Biochemical and Enzymological Response. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 15(3): 713-721.'),(6443,'156','A Study on Self-Fulfilling Empowerment Skills of Women in Telangana State','N. Sandhya Rani, P. Sreedevi, G. Swarupa Rani, R. Neela Rani and A. Meena','A-Study-on-Self-Fulfilling-Empowerment-Skills-of-Women-in-Telangana-State-N.-Sandhya-Rani-31.pdf','',1,'The self-fulfilling empowerment skills among women in Adilabad and Kumarambheem Asifabad districts of Telangana State was examined by using quasi-experimental research design. A sample of 120 women aged between 25-50 years were drawn by purposive random sampling method. A self-developed self-fulfilling empowerment skills scale consists of components like self-awareness, self-care, self-regulation, self-acceptance, self-compassion, self-motivation, self-worth, self-reliance, self-determination and self-satisfaction was administered to collect the data. The findings of the study revealed that nearly two thirds of the respondents (64%) had low levels self-fulfilling empowerment skills followed by moderate (26%) and very few (10%) had high levels of self-fulfilling empowerment skills. Further it was also found that more than sixty percent of the respondents were having low levels of self-acceptance, self-compassion, self-awareness, self-reliance and self-satisfaction. Whereas more than fifty percent of the respondents were having low levels of self-care, self-motivation, self-regulation, self-worth and self-determination. Thus, the findings of the study emphasising a need for planning suitable intervention programs for enhancing self-fulfilling empowerment skills among women. ','Self fulfillment, empowerment, rural women and tribal women','Self-fulfilment enables the individual to derive a sense of achievement and satisfaction towards one’s own life. It was found from the study that in all the components of self-fulfilling empowerment skills, women had low levels. Due to this they not able to realise and utilise their existing capabilities, demotivated with their lives, cannot accept own self, not feeling worthy, unable to provide warmth and love, unable to make decisions based their own choices, not able to solve their problems on their own and more dissatisfied with current life. Hence the study recommended a strong need for suitable psychological interventions to enhance self-fulfilling empowerment skills among women and also the government and organizations who were working for the welfare of women should implement educational interventions in order to promote the sense of self-fulfilment among tribal and rural women in Telangana state.','-','N. Sandhya Rani, P. Sreedevi, G. Swarupa Rani, R. Neela Rani and A. Meena (2023). A Study on Self-Fulfilling Empowerment Skills of Women in Telangana State. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 15(4): 191-196.'),(6444,'156','Effect of Fertilizer on Sporulation and Root Colonization of Mycorrhizal Fungi Associated with Tea Plants','Kaushal Kishore Choudhary, Chitra Sharma and Rajan Kumar Gupta','Effect-of-Fertilizer-on-Sporulation-and-Root-Colonization-of-Mycorrhizal-Fungi-Associated-with-Tea-Plants-Kaushal-Kishore-Choudhary-32.pdf','',1,'Continuous application of synthetic fertilizer has shown undesirable effect on tea quality as well as reduction in beneficial microbial composition of the soil responsible for sustainable soil productivity. This study has been proposed to analyze the effect of different concentrations of nitrogen (20, 40 and 60 kg N per 1000 m2), phosphorus (5, 10 and 15 kg P per 1000 m2) and potassium (25, 50 and 100 kg K per 1000 m2) fertilizer on sporulation and percent root colonization (PRC) of Arbuscular Mycorrhizal (AM) fungi in the tea-planted soil. Enumeration of sporulation and PRC was performed by collecting rhizospheric soils during the month of March, June, September and December. Study suggested the maximum sporulation and PRC with tea-planted rhizospheric soils fertilized with 40 kg of N, 10 kg of P and 75 kg of K fertilizer. However, doses of 60, 15 and 100 kg of N, P and K respectively showed reduced sporulation and PRC indicating the negative impact of higher doses of fertilizer. Seasonal evaluation showed that sporulation was prominent during the month of December and March whereas optimum percent root colonization was obtained for the month of June and September. Study concluded that colonization of AM fungi under field condition is the function of climatic condition and nutrient status of the soil. Further, this study clearly suggests that quality of the tea and beneficial bacteria composition particularly AM fungi can be maintained by limiting the application of chemical NPK fertilizer under field condition.','AM Fungi, NPK Fertilizer, Sporulation, Root colonization, Tea plants','Study concludes that the season (time) and concentration (fertilizers) is crucial factor in establishing AM fungi to get maximum benefit for proper host plants under field condition. Under similar growth condition and host, no significant variation in AM population can be achieved. Moreover, study reflected that higher fertilizer level might reduce the AM population under field condition. Finally, it might be concluded that indigenous AM fungi can be effectively introduced as bioinoculant with lower fertilizer level for sustainable agriculture practices and for a rehabilitation of an overburdened soil with reduced fertilizers.','-','Kaushal Kishore Choudhary, Chitra Sharma and Rajan Kumar Gupta (2023). Effect of Fertilizer on Sporulation and Root Colonization of Mycorrhizal Fungi Associated with Tea Plants. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 15(4): 197-201.'),(6445,'156','Documentation of Invasive Angiosperm Species of Thattekkad Bird Sanctuary','Arathy R.H., Mohanan N. and Lubaina A.S.','Documentation-of-Invasive-Angiosperm-Species-of-Thattekkad-Bird-Sanctuary-Arathy RH-33.pdf','',1,'Thattekkad bird sanctuary, known as the premier bird sanctuary of Kerala, is located in Central Kerala, North East to Kothamangalam in Ernakulam district. Though the sanctuary covers an area of 25.16 km2, almost 9 km2 is under human inhbitation, thereby increasing the risk of invasion. Invasive plant species arose serious threats to the biodiversity of Kerala, eventhen such biological invasions are not well studied, especially in the protected areas of the state. In the present study, hundred observation points were laid across the sanctuary. Each such point was selected on the basis of visual invasive behaviour. The plant species thus observed were checked against the checklist of invasive plants of Kerala. 24 such plant species obtained were categorised into four group viz., high risk, medium risk, low risk and insignificant based on the probable impact risk. Among them 10 species are of high risk, 5 pose medium risk, 7 with low risk and 2 are insignificant with respect to the risk impact. Out of the 24 plants, 1 is tree, 8 are shrubs, 9 are herbs and 6 are climbers. Most introductions were intentional. Immediate measures are to be taken to restore habitats from alien invasive plants and eradicate the plants that are in the early phase of establishment. Their further spread, in terms of new introductions and already established are to be strictly checked.','Thattekkad bird sanctuary, invasion, high risk, alien invasive plants, establishment','This study provides a primary data towards the invasive plants of Thattekkad sanctuary. Action plans are to be developed for the eradication of high risk species. Being a tourist destination, thorough checking of the belongings of tourists is needed to prevent spread and further introduction.','-','Arathy R.H., Mohanan N. and Lubaina A.S. (2023). Documentation of Invasive Angiosperm Species of Thattekkad Bird Sanctuary. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 15(4): 202-205.'),(6446,'156','Exploration of As(III)-oxidizing Bacteria as Sustainable Arsenic Bioremediation Strategy','Archika Dutta, Samir Kumar Mukherjee, and Sk Tofajjen Hossain','Exploration-of-As(III)-oxidizing-Bacteria-as-Sustainable-Arsenic-Bioremediation-Strategy-Archika-Dutta-35.pdf','',1,'Currently arsenic(As) contamination is of the leading public health concern and environmental distress. To deal with such a hazardous impact, living system has developed various mitigating strategies. Prokaryotic organisms in particular have evolved mechanisms that allow them to withstand and metabolize As at a higher concentration. Arsenic metabolizing bacteria play an indispensable role in maintaining the biogeochemical cycle of As through changing the redox state by oxidation, methylation or reduction of As species. Among these, As(III) oxidizing bacteria are more important because they operate a detoxifying mechanism by converting arsenite [As(III)] into the comparatively less toxic, insoluble arsenate [As(V)]. Since, the product of As(III) oxidation, the As(V), always gets readily adsorbed onto potent adsorbents, As(III) oxidation is thus being more investigated for bioremediation. Isolation of aerobic As(III) oxidizers from As-contaminated environments is being the subject of interest in recent years. This article evaluates the challenges faced due to As toxicity in As-contaminated areas. It also encompasses the present status and progress in As-decontamination to provide a brief comparison between standard As removal procedures and the newly emerging bioremediation technology. Additionally, it covers the current knowledge of the complex molecular biology and biochemistry of natural As metabolisms. Finally, the study focuses on As methylation, reduction and oxidation processes in microorganisms that involve a wide range of genes and operons that lead to the emergence of constructive methods for the application of potential bioremediation programs.','Arsenic, As(III)-oxidizing bacteria, arsenic oxidation, bioremediation','It is well established that enzymes from various microorganisms catalyze the biotransformation of As, and these enzymes are connected to the biogeochemical cycles of phosphorus, nitrogen, sulphur and iron. Thus, microorganisms have a significant impact on the metabolic cycle of As because they have the ability to change the solubility and mobility of As in different oxidation states. Therefore, to get rid of this toxic metalloid from the habitable ecological niche and crop fields, As-resistant bacteria might have a potential role in sustainable bioremediation. Modern life forms contain a wide variety of As-resistant modifications that serve as evolutionary tools for long-term environmental As detoxification. ','-','Archika Dutta, Samir Kumar Mukherjee, and Sk Tofajjen Hossain (2023). Exploration of As(III)-oxidizing Bacteria as Sustainable Arsenic Bioremediation Strategy. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 15(4): 210-217.'),(6447,'156','Comparative Economics of Cashew Cultivation under Conventional Farming versus Natural Farming System in Karnataka','Anand B. Mastiholi, Mallu B. Deshetti, Naveen Puttaswamy, Sowmya B., H. P. Maheswarappa, Shantappa T. and Uma V.','Comparative-Economics-of-Cashew-Cultivation-under-Conventional-Farming-versus-Natural-Farming-System-in-Karnataka-Mallu-B-36.pdf','',1,'This study investigated (i) cashew area growth; production and productivity of cashew (ii) estimated cost and profit structure of cashew cultivation, (iii) the financial feasibility of cashew cultivation under conventional v/s natural farming system at Horticultural Research and Extension Centre, Kanabargi, Belagavi district. Data were analyzed using descriptive statistics and financial feasibility method. A study showed that annual maintenance cost of cashew under conventional system (Rs. 97,785/ha) was higher compared to natural farming system (Rs. 90,400/ha). Cashews are harvested once in a year. In natural cultivation, the average yield obtained in the orchard was higher (16.76 q/ha) compared to the conventional orchard (17.15 q/ha). However, the selling price was Rs. 25, 775 and Rs. 25,766 in conventional and natural farming system, respectively. The feasibility analysis showed that the discount rate of NPV @ 12% was positive at Rs. 9, 78, 395 and Rs. 8, 52, 919 in conventional and natural farming system. Correspondingly, B: C ratios were 2.43 and 2.35 in conventional and natural farming systems. The payback period was found higher in conventional farming at 5.11 years compared to 5.02 years in NFS. The internal rate of returns was 30 percent & 27 percent in conventional & natural farming system, respectively. Therefore, cashew investments were financially profitable in both the cultivation methods. However, cultivation of cashew in natural farming has shown several positive externalities, viz. improvement in soil fertility, nut quality, taste and also positive impact on human health through consumption of naturally produced cashew end product. ','Cashew cultivation, Conventional farming, Natural farming, Financial feasibility','In this background, the horticulture sector offers great opportunities to increase the income of the farmers. The research study was conducted at HREC, Kanabargi, Belagavi district Karnataka and evaluated the economics of cashew cultivation. The study showed that cashew cultivation was cheaper under natural cultivation compared to conventional cultivation method because labour costs and input costs were lower in NFS. The cost of maintaining the garden increased with the age of the crop. The natural farming system included regular monitoring and management strategies to avoid pests and diseases compared to conventional farming system. Although natural method of cultivation achieved a slightly lower yield on an average, it continued to help to improve the soil fertility and microclimate, i.e. positive externality in improving soil fertility, nut quality and human health due to the consumption of naturally grown cashew nuts that do not contain chemical residues.','-','Anand B. Mastiholi, Mallu B. Deshetti, Naveen Puttaswamy, Sowmya B., H. P. Maheswarappa, Shantappa T. and Uma V. (2023). Comparative Economics of Conventional Farming versus Natural Farming System in Cashew Cultivation in Karnataka. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 15(4): 218-224.'),(6448,'156','Review of Grafting as a Potential Method for Reducing Biotic and Abiotic Stresses in Cucurbits','Sheetanshu Gupta, Deepak Maurya and Shakuli Kashyap','Review-of-Grafting-as-a-Potential-Method-for-Reducing-Biotic-and-Abiotic-Stresses-in-Cucurbits-Sheetanshu-Gupta-37.pdf','',1,'India is the world\'s second-largest producer of veggies after China, yet the amount consumed is still much lower than the amount advised. Vegetable grafting is one of the effective methods that can be used to address the rising demand for vegetables. It is a useful approach to utilize in conjunction with more environmentally friendly crop production methods, such as in many nations, lower rates, and general usage of soil fumigants. It serves as a good option because there is little room to expand the area under cultivation because there are fewer arable lands available due to population growth. Due to the huge demand at the moment, it has also spread to other solanaceous crops including cucumber and watermelon. Apart from boosting resistance to abiotic stressors and increasing water usage efficiency, grafting in vegetables has primarily been documented for tolerance to soil-borne illnesses. However, if grafting is used more frequently in the future, the microbial habitat of the soil will probably change, which could encourage the emergence of new infections. Despite the fact that grafting has been shown to control a variety of common diseases, the ultimate effectiveness will probably depend on how effectively we keep an eye out for changes in pathogens as well as any other unintended outcomes. There are some big challenges in grafting like compatibility issues, disease transmission, labor intensive, limited genetic diversity, and cost. Grafting has several contributions to the reduction of biotic and abiotic stresses in cucurbits. Disease resistance, tolerance to abiotic stress, improved yield and quality, reduced chemical inputs, and an extended growing season are some of the benefits of grafting in cucurbits. However, it is important to consider the challenges associated with grafting before using this method.','Grafting, biotic and abiotic stress management, cucurbits','Vegetable grafting has been effectively used for many years in Asian nations, and it is gaining popularity globally. The development and distribution of rootstock seeds through commercial seed catalogs is a top priority for many international seed firms. A fundamental necessity for sustained success is the identification of appropriate multi-disease-resistant rootstocks with tolerance to abiotic stressors. The introduction of top-notch rootstocks with a variety of disease resistances and effective grafting tools, such as grafting robots, will considerably promote the continued use of grafted vegetables around the globe. Vegetable grafting and growing seedlings with grafts present a number of common issues. The price premium for rootstock seeds, the labor-intensive nature of grafting and growing grafted seedlings, inexperience with grafting and management of grafted plants, and the likelihood of grafting-related physiological diseases are a few of these drawbacks. However, adopting grafted seedlings has a lot of advantages. These include an increase in income from high yield and off-season growing, a reduction in fertilizer and irrigation water input due to the rootstocks\' wide root systems, a significant reduction in agrochemical use due to the rootstocks\' high resistance to disease and other physiological disorders, an extension of the harvest season, effective maintenance of well-known cultivars against diseases and other physiological disorders, a lack of requirement for lengthy crop rotations, the resolution of issues caused by saline soils and thermal stress.','-','Sheetanshu Gupta, Deepak Maurya and Shakuli Kashyap (2023). Review of Grafting as a Potential Method for Reducing Biotic and Abiotic Stresses in Cucurbits. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 15(4): 225-233.'),(6449,'156','Influence of Varied Nitrogen Quantities on the Growth, Harvest Index, and Economic Viability of Barley','Dundigala Ravali, Sahadeva Singh, Abul Kalam Azad, Ibrahim Kaleel, Ashirbachan Mahapatra, Pradipta Ranjan Pradhan, Arpita Kotnala and Amar Nath Singh ','Influence-of-Varied-Nitrogen-Quantities-on-the-Growth,-Harvest-Index,-and-Economic-Viability-of-Barley-Ashirbachan-Mahapatra-38.pdf','',1,'Farmers in the Indian state of Haryana widely cultivate barley (Hordeum vulgare L.) due to its popularity. Nitrogen (N) is an essential element for plant growth and development. In areas where soil nitrogen is limited, the yield of barley is dependent on the amount of N fertilizer applied. Therefore, determining the optimal amount of N fertilizer is crucial for achieving profitable barley cultivation. During the winter season of 2019-2020, research was carried out at the research farm of the School of Agricultural Sciences (SoAS), Gurugram, Haryana. The study was conducted using a randomized complete block design (RCBD) with six N levels (0, 30, 45, 60, 75, and 90 kgha-1) and four replications. The growth parameters and harvest index (HI) of the barley crop were documented, and an economic analysis was performed to determine the net return and benefit-to-cost (B:C) ratio of the crop. Ensuring consistent environmental conditions throughout the crop growth phase posed a challenge for this study. The plots that received 60 kg N ha-1 had the highest growth parameters and HI. However, the plots that were treated with 90 kg N ha-1 had the highest net return and B:C ratio compared to other treatments. Therefore, it is recommended that barley crop growers use this dosage for better profitability. These findings can be useful for barley farmers and policymakers in making informed decisions on N application for optimal crop growth and economic benefits. Additional research can be conducted over an extended period to investigate various parameters of the barley crop.','Barley, Nitrogen, Crop yield, Growth parameters, Harvest index and Economics','The application of higher levels of N significantly influenced the growth parameters and HI of barley crops, ultimately impacting their economic viability. The study concluded that the optimal N dose for barley growth and HI was 60 kg N ha-1. The treatment with 90 kg N ha-1 recorded the highest net income and B:C ratio, making it a recommended option for farmers to improve their productivity and profitability in barley. ','-','Dundigala Ravali, Sahadeva Singh, Abul Kalam Azad, Ibrahim Kaleel, Ashirbachan Mahapatra, Pradipta Ranjan Pradhan, Arpita Kotnala and Amar Nath Singh (2023). Influence of Varied Nitrogen Quantities on the Growth, Harvest Index, and Economic Viability of Barley. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 15(4): 234-238.'),(6450,'156','Efficacy of Foliar Application of Plant Growth Regulators on Growth and Yield of Chilli (Capsicum annuum L.)','Milu Rani Das and Nilofer Sheikh','Efficacy-of-Foliar-Application-of-Plant-Growth-Regulators-on-Growth-and-Yield-of-Chilli-(Capsicum-annuum-L.)-Milu-Rani-Das-39.pdf','',1,'The experiment was undertaken in the University of Science and Technology, Meghalaya, during Rabi season, to examine the response of different levels of foliar application of Naphthalene acetic acid (NAA), Chlorocholine chloride (CCC) and Gibberellic acid (GA) on chilli (Capsicum annuum L.) cv. Pusa Jwalaon growth and yield. Application of these plant growth regulators can increase the yield by reducing the flower drop, increasing the fruit set and dry matter accumulation. In this experiment, the treatments considered were NAA at 10ppm and 50ppm, GA 10ppm, CCC 100ppm and GA 10ppm + CCC 100ppm. The experiment was laid out in Randomized Block Design (RBD) with three replications. Results of the experiment showed a significant variation among the treatments. Plant height was observed highest, 24.83cm, 42.00cm and 58.77cm at 30, 60 and 90 DAT respectively with NAA 50ppm concentration. The highest RLWC% and RGR were recorded from plants treated with NAA 50ppm. Application of plant growth regulators extended the shelf-life of harvested chilli fruits to 10 days in NAA treated plants. Maximum number of fruits per plant (47) and yield (117 q/ha) were recorded with NAA treated plants followed by GA 10ppm. Based on the present results, it can be suggested that the use of plant growth regulators have a synergistic effect in increasing plant growth and yield of Chilli by increasing fruit set and dry matter accumulation.','NAA, GA3, CCC, Relative Growth Rate, self life, Yield','From the present investigation it is concluded that among the foliar treatments applied, NAA 50ppm concentration was found to be most effective and promising in improving the physiological efficiency and productivity potential of chilli Pusa Jwala in the climatic condition of Ri-Bhoi, District, Meghalaya. The treatments with plant growth regulators can be considered as a suitable cost effective technique to improve yield and quality of chilli.','-','Milu Rani Das and Nilofer Sheikh (2023). Efficacy of Foliar Application of Plant Growth Regulators on Growth and Yield of Chilli (Capsicum annuum L.). Biological Forum – An International Journal, 15(4): 239-242.'),(6451,'156','Determination of Gene Effects and Inheritance of genes for various Generations of Soybean Crosses (Glycine max L. Merrill)','Madhuri Singh, S.K. Nag and R.K. Yadav','Determination-of-Gene-Effects-and-Inheritance-of-genes-for-various-Generations-of-Soybean-Crosses-(Glycine-max-L.-Merrill)-Madhuri-Singh-40.pdf','',1,'Using the means of P1, P2, F1, BC1, BC2 and F2 generations of three crosses of soybean, estimates of gene effects were obtained using the portioning method of six parameters model that assumed the presence of epistatic gene effects. Most of the yield components had predominance of additive gene effects which would be useful in exploiting transgressive variation for those traits among the progenies. Dominant gene effects are invariably exploited in developing hybrid varieties. Duplicate type of epistatis play a significant role in expression of the majority of the characters in all crosses of soybean. Complementary type of epistatis was found to be important to be expression of pod bearing length and days to 50% flowering, protein content, which indicates the possibility of improving to those traits in RSC11-42 × PS1475 and CG Soya 11-15 × PS1475 respectively.','Gene effects, crosses, traits, soybean, selection','An improvement of seed yield in these crosses can be achieved by following the procedure of recurrent selection for specific combining ability in order to exploit dominance and epistasis gene action. Most of the yield components had predominance of additive gene effects which would be useful in exploiting transgressive variation for those traits among the progenies. Duplicate type of epistatis play a significant role in expression of the majority of the characters in all crosses of soybean. Complementary type of epistatis was found to be important to be expression of pod bearing length and days to 50% flowering, protein content, which indicates the possibility of improving to those traits in RSC11-42 × PS1475 and CG Soya 11-15 × PS1475 respectively.','-','Madhuri Singh, S.K. Nag and R.K. Yadav (2023). Determination of Gene Effects and Inheritance of genes for various Generations of Soybean Crosses (Glycine max L. Merrill). Biological Forum – An International Journal, 15(4): 243-245.'),(6452,'156','To Evaluate the Effectiveness of Fungicides and Bio-pesticides Against Purple Blotch in kharif Onion','M.K. Pandey, P.K. Gupta, R.C. Gupta and M.K. Pathak','To-Evaluate-the-Effectiveness-of-Fungicides-and-Bio-pesticides-Against-Purple-Blotch-in-kharif-Onion-MK-Pandey-41.pdf','',1,'Purple blotch, a fungal disease in onion is one of the major causes of incurred loss of onion bulbs in Kharif season. This present study aimed to determine the effectiveness of different fungicides and bio - pesticides against purple blotch disease of onion in field conditions. A field trial was carried out at Regional Research station, NHRDF, Nashik for two consecutive years during Kharif 2019 and 2020 on onion variety Agrifound Dark Red for the management of purple blotch disease of onion through sequential spray of different fungicides with bio - pesticides. The result showed that, significantly minimum purple blotch incidence (38.75%) with intensity (4.65%) and highest gross yield (163.47 q/ha) with marketable (130.17q/ha) were recorded in Spray of Propiconazole @ 0.15 % at 30 DAT + spray of Ps. fluorescencs @ 5.0g/L at 45DAT + spray of Trifloxystrobin 25% + Tebuconazole 50%@0.2% at 60 DAT + spray of T. viride @5.0g/ L at 75DAT.','Onion, Purple blotch, Incidence, Intensity, Bio - pesticides, Fungicides','The combined data of trial conducted at RRS, Nashik during kharif, 2019 and 2020 on onion variety Agrifound Dark Red revealed that the treatment T2: Spray of Ps. fluorescens @ 5.0g/L at 30 DAT + spray Tricyclazole@ 0.2% at 45 DAT + spray of T. viride @ 5.0g/L at 60 DAT + spray of Hexaconazole@ 0.2% at 75 DAT performed at par with purple blotch disease intensity (5.55%) as well as highest B:C ratio (9.01:1) because of the lower cost of the fungicides. The onion bulbs were found free from pesticide residue tested after harvest. While the treatment T1: spray of Propiconazole @ 0.15% at 30 DAT + spray of Ps. fluorescens @ 5.0g/L at 45 DAT + spray of Trifloxistrobin 25% + Tebuconazole 50%@ 0.2% at 60 DAT + spray of T. viride @ 5.0g/L at 75 DAT performed with lowest purple blotch intensity (4.65%) in comparison to intensity in untreated control (7.45%). However, the B: C ratio (5.82:1) was recorded because of the higher cost of the fungicides.','-','M.K. Pandey, P.K. Gupta, R.C. Gupta and M.K. Pathak (2023). To Evaluate the Effectiveness of Fungicides and Bio-pesticides Against Purple Blotch in kharif Onion. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 15(4): 246-249.'),(6453,'156','Application of the Response Surface Method in the Analysis of Ohmic Heating Process Performance in Neera','Kalaiselvan K., V. Perasiriyan, B. Murugan and N. Karpoora Sundara Pandian','Application-of-the-Response-Surface-Method-in-the-Analysis-of-Ohmic-Heating-Process-Performance-in-Neera-Kalaiselvan-K-42.pdf','',1,'India is the largest producer of coconut. The neera is a very susceptible product tapped from the spadix of coconut. Shelf life of the neera is very low because of bacteria and yeast fermentation. Novel processing method are emerging techniques to increase the shelf life of the product. Is study is focusing of the optimizing the ohmic processing by using response surface methodology. Process temperature (60 to 90 °C), process time (60 to 300 s) and process voltage (10 to 40 V) for ohmic heating of neera. The pH and overall acceptability were fixed as a response. The desirable pH and overall acceptability were attained in voltage 23 V, time 196 s and temperature 62o C of ohmic processing.','Novel processing of neera. Coconut sap, shelf life extension',' According to obtained results from the surface response method, values of Lack of fit were not significant for any factor of pH and overall acceptability. Value of R2 was greater than 0.73. The voltage 23V, time 196s and temperature 62oC was gave maximum overall acceptability and neutral pH during ohmic processing.','-','Kalaiselvan K., V. Perasiriyan, B. Murugan and N. Karpoora Sundara Pandian (2023). Application of the Response Surface Method in the Analysis of Ohmic Heating Process Performance in Neera. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 15(4): 250-253.'),(6454,'156','Population Improvement in Niger for Yield and Yield Attributing Traits after Two Cycle of Mass Selection','Gururaja M., Nandini R., Savithramma D.L. and Rangaiah S.','Population-Improvement-in-Niger-for-Yield-and-Yield-Attributing-Traits-after-Two-Cycle-of-Mass-Selection-Gururaja-M-43.pdf','',1,'Niger (Guizotia abyssinica (L.f.) Cass) is oil bearing annual, herbaceous plant belonging to the natural order compositae, sometimes referred to as Asteraceae. Niger is a cross pollinated crop and controlling its pollination is very difficult due to the smaller sized inflorescence so that there is no any ruling hybrids are not available in this crop. Hence our main aim is to improvement of niger plant population for yield and yield attributes using mass selection. First we developed base population to create of sufficient genetic variability in a population to select the individual plant based on phenotypic appearance, this was during summer 2018 at University of Agricultural sciences, GKVK, Bengaluru. From base population we selected 500 phenotypically superior plants and tag them and record the observation on quantitative traits. From 500 plant seed yield data we were make three different A1, A2 and A3 population based on seed yield per plant. Among three population we were discussed only A1 population in this article. The selected A1 population group seeds from base population plants were subjected to a two cycle of mass selection. Mean value for yield and yield attributing traits was high in case of A1 population after second cycle of mass selection over base and first cycle of selection mean values. This could be due to the selection efficiency, it lead to occurrence of different allelic and gene combinations. Mean values of yield and yield attributing traits of base, first and second cycle of mass selection values were subjected to t test, the results revealed significant increase in plant height, primary branches per plant, secondary branches per plant, capsule number per plant, number of seeds per capsule, test weight and seed yield per plant after second cycle of mass selection over base population mean values.','Niger, A1 population, Mass Selection, Growth parameters, Yield attributes','Niger is highly cross-pollinated crop, controlling of pollination is very difficult hence, in this study improvement of existing cultivars of niger lines by two cycles of mass selection. After two cycles of mass selection improvement was observed in yield and yield attributing traits in niger population as compared with the base population.','-',' Gururaja M., Nandini R., Savithramma D.L. and Rangaiah S. (2023). Population Improvement in Niger for Yield and Yield Attributing Traits after Two Cycle of Mass Selection. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 15(4): 254-258.'),(6455,'156','Standardization of Method for Propagation of Potato Economics by Stem Cutting','Heena Sahu, Jitendra Singh, Versha Kumari and Rekha Singh','Standardization-of-Method-for-Propagation-of-Potato-Economics-by-Stem-Cutting-Heena-Sahu-44.pdf','',1,'The experiment was carried out in the field of department of Vegetable Science at Pt. KLS College of Horticulture and Research Station, Rajnandgaon (C.G.) in the year 2021-22 in the field of Vegetable Science. The crop Potato of variety Kufri Lalima were used to grown in 9 number of treatments with 3 replications into the field in a Randomized Block Design (RBD). The soil of experimental field was sandy clay soil. Recommend dose of manure and fertilizer were applied during the field preparation in 9 treatments viz., T1: IAA 500ppm, T2: IAA 1000ppm, T3: IAA 1500ppm, T4: IAA 2000ppm, T5: IBA 500ppm, T6: IBA 1000ppm, T7: IBA 1500ppm, T8: IBA 2000ppm and T9: Control-Water. The crop economic parameters like maximum total cost of cultivation Rs. 100305.5 ha-1, gross return Rs. 295142.75 ha-1, net return Rs. 196637.25 ha-1 and B: C ratio Rs. 2.00 ha-1 were found higher in the treatment T7 (IBA 1500ppm) and which was at par with the result of treatment T6 (IBA 1000ppm) and T3 (IAA 1500ppm), while minimum was recorded in treatment T9 (Control-Water). On the basis of overall performance, the treatment T7 (IBA 1500ppm) was found with higher yield and economic return. However, based on the nature of agricultural experiments, common challenges such as weather variations, pest and disease infestations, and management of field operations may have been encountered.','Stem cutting, RBD, IAA, IBA, Cost of cultivation, B: C ratio ','In conclusion, the study showed that the application of synthetic auxins, specifically IBA and IAA, at specific concentrations can significantly affect the total cost of cultivation, gross and net returns, and the B:C ratio of potato cultivation. While the use of these growth hormones can increase the cost of cultivation, treatment T7, which used IBA at 1500ppm, resulted in the highest net return and B:C ratio, indicating that the increased cost was offset by the increased yield and economic return. These findings suggest that the use of appropriate auxin concentrations can be a cost-effective approach for improving crop yield and financial growth. \r\nThe outcomes of this study are consistent with the findings of previous research, highlighting the potential benefits of using synthetic auxins in crop cultivation. However, it is important to note that the optimal concentration for each crop and treatment should be carefully determined to maximize the benefits while minimizing the cost. \r\nIn summary, the study provides valuable insights into the potential of using synthetic auxins for potato cultivation, highlighting the importance of carefully selecting the appropriate concentration for each treatment to achieve optimal results. The findings of this study can be useful for potato farmers and agricultural researchers seeking to improve crop yield and financial growth while minimizing costs.\r\n','-','Heena Sahu, Jitendra Singh, Versha Kumari and Rekha Singh (2023). Standardization of Method for Propagation of Potato Economics by Stem Cutting. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 15(4): 259-263.'),(6456,'156','Response of different Propagation Methods on Economics of Water Spinach (Ipomoea aquatica Forsk.)','Prachi Minj, Jitendra Singh, Versha Kumari and Rekha Singh','Response-of-different-Propagation-Methods-on-Economics-of-Water-Spinach-(Ipomoea-aquatica-Forsk.)-Prachi-Minj-45.pdf','',1,'A field experiment was carried out in the field of Pt. KLS College of Horticulture and Research Station, Rajnandgaon (C.G.) year 2021-22, under Vegetable Science Department with a view to study the response of different propagation methods on economics of Water Spinach (Ipomoea aquatica Forsk.). The crop Water spinach of variety Kalmi Reshmi was grown in 9 treatments with 3 replications in a Randomized Block Design (RBD). The PGR and biofertilizer used in the experiment were GA3 100ppm and Trichoderma viride 2ml/L water as per the treatments viz., T1: Planting through cuttings of 15cm length treated with GA3 (100ppm), T2: Planting through cuttings of 15cm length treated with Trichoderma viride 2ml/l water, T3: Planting through cuttings of 15cm length without treatment, T4: Planting through seedlings treated with GA3 (100ppm), T5: Planting through seedlings treated with Trichoderma viride 2ml/l water, T6: Planting through seedlings without treatment, T7: Direct sowing of seeds treated with GA3 (100ppm), T8: Direct sowing of seeds treated with Trichoderma viride 2ml/l water and T9: [Control] Direct sowing of seeds without treatment. The maximum total cost of cultivation Rs. 1,02,261.18 per ha was calculated for treatment T2 (Planting through cuttings of 15cm length treated with Trichoderma viride 2ml/l water), maximum gross returns Rs. 3,26,666.67 per ha and maximum net returns Rs. 2,24,830.49 per ha. B:C ratio 2.21 was obtained in treatment T4 (Planting through seedlings treated with GA3 100ppm), while minimum was obtained in treatment T9 (Control: Direct sowing of seeds without treatment). Treatment T4(Planting through seedlings treated with GA3 100ppm) was found significantly superior for all the economic parameters of water spinach (Ipomoea aquatica Forsk.). Although the study provides valuable insights into the effects of different propagation methods on the economics of Water Spinach cultivation, some challenges such as weather fluctuations, pest infestations, and soil variability were not considered in the study, which could impact the results.','Ipomoea aquatica, Trichoderma viride, GA3, B:C ratio, Cost of cultivation','In conclusion, the study on the response of different propagation methods on the economics of water spinach has shown that treatment T4 (planting through seedlings treated with GA3 100ppm) was significantly superior for all the economic parameters of water spinach. The maximum gross and net returns and the highest B:C ratio were obtained in this treatment. The results of this study can provide important insights for farmers and policymakers to adopt the most profitable and efficient methods for water spinach cultivation.','-','Prachi Minj, Jitendra Singh, Versha Kumari and Rekha Singh (2023). Response of Different Propagation Methods on Economics of Water Spinach (Ipomoea aquatica Forsk.). Biological Forum – An International Journal, 15(4): 264-267.'),(6457,'156','Screening of Indian Mustard Genotypes against White Rust Disease based on Disease Indexing','Aditi Shrivastava, M.K. Tripathi, Sushma Tiwari, Purnima Singh, Niraj Tripathi, Prakash Narayan Tiwari, Prerana Parihar, J. Singh and Shailja Chauhan ','Screening-of-Indian-Mustard-Genotypes-against-White-Rust-Disease-based-on-Disease-Indexing-Manoj-Kumar-Tripathi-46.pdf','',1,'Mustard is an important oilseed crop in India. Various biotic factors are responsible for yield reduction as well as seed quality in mustard. Among different biotic stresses, white rust causes yield loss and quality in mustard up to a great extent. White rust not only degrades seed quality but also significantly lowers its oil content. As it is distinguished that, among various disease management tactics, use of resistant varieties is the best choice owing to cost-effectiveness and environment friendly approach. However, till now only few resistant sources against this disease has been reported. Therefore, in the present investigation, 75 Indian mustard genotypes have been evaluated in field under epiphytotic conditions during Rabi 2021-22. Some of the genotypes showed resistance against white rust disease. These resistance sources may be helpful to develop superior cultivar (s) for managing white rust disease where mustard cultivation is dominant. ','Resistance, White rust, disease indexing, biotic stress, Indian mustard','It has been determined that the germplasm lines of Indian mustard exhibited resistant to moderately resistant response in field screening trial against white rust disease. It is possible that these germplasm lines could be used in future breeding programs to develop resistant cultivars, which could then be commercialized for cultivation in farmer\'s fields. In order to combat the constantly changing diseases, it is crucial to identify a variety of resistance genes in any crop species. With the long-term goal of diversifying the current cropping system, significant efforts have recently been made in India to horizontally increase the area under mustard cultivation in the non-traditional locations. Therefore, it is necessary to always have access to donor parents which have a high level of resistance against white rust disease. ','-','Aditi Shrivastava, M.K. Tripathi, Sushma Tiwari, Purnima Singh, Niraj Tripathi, Prakash Narayan Tiwari, Prerana Parihar, J. Singh and Shailja Chauhan (2023). Screening of Indian Mustard Genotypes against White Rust Disease based on Disease Indexing. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 15(4): 268-272.'),(6458,'147','Character Association and Path Analysis for Yield, Iron Content and Component Traits in Indigenous Rice Germplasm','Debendra Nath Sarangi, Bijoy Kumar Senapati and Banshidhar Pradhan, Rajesh Kumar Kar, Mihir Ranjan Mohanty and Subhashree Das ','Character-Association-and-Path-Analysis-for-Yield,-Iron-Content-and-Component-Traits-in-Indigenous-Rice-Germplasm-Rajesh-Kumar-Kar-120.pdf','',1,'Rice is one of the major staple foods which contribute the energy source of nutrition. As variation in micronutrients is a major problem affecting the health of people, so selection for indigenous rice germplasm with higher micronutrient for iron and zinc is need of the hour. For selection of characters, character association and direct and indirect contribution of characters play an important role. The present investigation was conducted taking 94 germplasms using augmented design. Observations were recorded on 12 quantitative and 3 quality characters from five randomly selected plants in each genotype. The characters like days to 50 % flowering, days to maturity, plant height (cm), number of tiller per plant, panicle length (cm), number of grains per panicle, 1000-grain weight (g) yield per plant (g), harvest index (%), grain length (mm) grain width (mm), grain L/B ratio, amylose content, gelatinization temperature and iron content in brown rice (ppm) were taken and analyzed for character association and path analysis studies. The characters like 1000-grain weight, harvest index, grain length and grain breadth shown significant association with yield while there was negative association of harvest index with iron content of brown rice. Direct and indirect contributions also supported the character association in same manner. So, selection of 1000-grain weight, grain length and grain breadth are important characters to select plants for improvement of iron content in brown rice as well as yield.','Character association, Path analysis, Grain iron content, Yield and Rice','From the present study it was observed that 1000-grain weight, harvest index (%), grain length and grain breadth were the contributing characters for selection of plants with higher yield while harvest index may not be considered for selecting for contribution iron content of brown rice.','-','Debendra Nath Sarangi, Bijoy Kumar Senapati and Banshidhar Pradhan, Rajesh Kumar Kar, Mihir Ranjan Mohanty and Subhashree Das (2022). Character Association and Path Analysis for Yield, Iron Content and Component Traits in Indigenous Rice Germplasm. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 14(4a): 701-704.'),(6459,'156','Suitability of Sand Layer Technology for the Management of Callosobruchus chinensis L. on Stored Chickpea','Ranjitha M.R., Ram Singh Umrao, Revanasidda and Ankit Upadhyay','Suitability-of-Sand-Layer-Technology-for-the-Management-of-Callosobruchus-chinensis-L.-on-Stored-Chickpea-Ranjitha-MR-47.pdf','',1,'Pulses are a crucial crop for human nutrition since the seeds have increased protein content. India is the world\'s largest producer of pulses, with the chickpea being one of the most important. The major biotic factors are pulse beetles, and Callosobruchus chinensis L. is one of them that causes severe infestations and losses in stored chickpea. For small and subsistence farmers, the available modern management alternatives, such as the use of pesticides and irradiation, were neither cost-effective nor safe. Thus, the current study was carried out to assess sand layer technology as a reliable and cost-effective option for the management of C. chinensis. The experiment involved covering chickpea grains with thin layers of sand to determine the ideal sand thickness for safe storage of chickpea for six months. It found that treatments with no sand layer and then treatments with 0.5 cm sand layer recorded the highest levels of infestation parameters. The most effective treatment was to cover chickpea grains with 1.5 cm sand layer, which significantly reduced the infestation parameters on pre-infested chickpea grains. This was attributed to the absence of open area for beetles to breed on the grain surface as well as the absence of inter-grain space, which was covered in fine sand which may interrupted the female beetles to lay eggs. Therefore, this technique would serve as an economical and eco-friendly method for storing chickpeas on a small scale or household levels.','Chickpea, Sand layer, Pulse beetle, C. chinensis, Management','Present findings clearly suggests that creation of 1.5 cm thick sand layer on chickpea grain surface provides protection against pulse beetle for over six months. It is the effective method in case of small scale/ household level/ farm level storage and also it is an eco-friendly and economically feasible option. To conclude, the above effective treatment can be used as an alternate options to the chemical options for management of bruchids in small scale storage thereby helping famers or household level grain storages to address the issues of economic feasibility management option overcoming health and environmental concerns.','-','Ranjitha M.R., Ram Singh Umrao, Revanasidda and Ankit Upadhyay (2023). Suitability of Sand Layer Technology for the Management of Callosobruchus chinensis L. on Stored Chickpea. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 15(4): 273-278.'),(6460,'150','Effect of Plant Growth Regulators in Return and Profitability of Cultivation of Guava (Psidium guajava L.) in Prayagraj, Uttar Pradesh: (An Economic Analysis)','Vaibhav Devidas Kapadnis, Pratyush Kumari Rath and Ankita Sahu','Effect-of-Plant-Growth-Regulators-in-Return-and-Profitability-of-Cultivation-of-Guava-(Psidium-guajava-L.)-in-Prayagraj,-Uttar-Pradesh-(An-Economic-Analysis)-Vaibhav-Devidas-Kapadnis-112.pdf','',1,'The current study was undertaken to determine the most cost-effective treatment that will provide the greatest return for the smallest outlay in the treatment of plant growth regulators during 2021-22 at Central Research Farm, Department of Horticulture, Sam Higginbottom Institute of Agriculture & Sciences, Prayagraj (U.P.). The experiment consist of ten treatments (one control, three Gibberellic acid (GA3) @75ppm, @100ppm and @125ppm, three levels of Naphthalene acetic acid (NAA) @200ppm, @250ppm and @300ppm and three levels of 2 Chloroethyl tri-methylammonium Chloride, Chlormequat (CCC) @400ppm, @500ppm and @600ppm). It was found that the cost of cultivation of guava varied from ` 229850 ha-1 to ` 226100 ha-1. The productivity level was found to be highest from the concentration of NAA @ 250 ppm i.e. 730.4 q ha-1. It is abundantly obvious that NAA\'s (naphthalene acetic acid) effectiveness as a plant growth regulator was shown to be more effective and profitable due to increases in productivity, profitability, and economic efficiency. The treatment (T4) of NAA @ 200 ppm gave the highest (1:5.8) benefit-cost ratio followed by NAA @ 250 (T5) and NAA @ 300 (T6). It means the guava growers are getting the highest return i.e. ` 5.8 from guava production over expenditure of `1.00.','Guava, GA3, NAA, CCC, Cost of Cultivation, yield, Economics','Guava is one of India\'s most widely grown and significant fruit crops. It is ranked fourth in terms of area and production. Among all the states of the country; Uttar Pradesh, Bihar, Madhya Pradesh, Maharashtra are the major guava-growing states of the country. Uttar Pradesh being the highest guava-producing state covers around 16.49 percent of the area and 21.78 percent of the production of guava in the country (National Horticulture Board, 2022 and APEDA, Agri exchange, 2022). It is concluded that the overall cost of cultivation of guava was highest for all the concentrations of Gibberellic acid rather than the control and other concentrations of NAA and CCC. It was also found that guava cultivation through control treatment followed by different concentrations of NAA are more cost-effective than the other treatments of guava. The data shows that the highest gross income was observed from T4 i.e. NAA @ 200 ppm followed by NAA @ 250 ppm NAA @ 300 ppm and it was the least from T0 i.e. Control (water spray) (`627300 ha-1). A similar result was observed in the case of net return. Drastic change was observed in the productivity level of guava. It was highest from the concentration of NAA @ 250 ppm i.e. 730.4 q ha-1. The foliar spray of NAA, increased the cost ratio in guava. Therefore, it can be concluded that the efficiency of resource use; variable as well as fixed resources, in guava production enhanced at a faster rate by using NAA as compared to control and treatments of different concentration of GA3 and CCC. It is indicated that among all the plant growth regulators performance of NAA (Naphthalene acetic acid) was found to be more effective and become more profitable on account of increase in productivity, profitability and enhanced economic efficiency. ','-','Vaibhav Devidas Kapadnis, Pratyush Kumari Rath and Ankita Sahu (2023). Effect of Plant Growth Regulators in Return and Profitability of Cultivation of Guava (Psidium guajava L.) in Prayagraj, Uttar Pradesh: (An Economic Analysis). Biological Forum – An International Journal, 15(3): 722-726.'),(6461,'156','A Study on the Availability of Marine Fishes in Digha Mohana Fish Landing Centre, Purba Medinipur, West Bengal, India','Avik Bhanja, Pijush Payra, Basudev Mandal, Manas Das, Sayan Mandal and Tapas Bhunia','A-Study-on-the-Availability-of-Marine-Fishes-in-Digha-Mohana-Fish-Landing-Centre,-Purba-Medinipur,-West-Bengal,-India-Avik-Bhanja-48.pdf','',1,'The present study was conducted at Digha Mohana fish landing centre, West Bengal & attempts this study to investigate the availability of marine finfish and shellfishes in the centre. The present survey was of 9 months duration. Major concerns of this study were based on a suitable scientific sampling process, because it was too hectic to collect the fish sample in the morning hours, due to extreme crowding conditions for trading. Beside this, in most cases tons of fishes unloaded in this fish landing centre and from there bulk quantity of fishes are distributed immediately. Among this large amount of fish, it was difficult to obtain samples of small-sized fishes. A total of 148 finfish and 15 shellfish species were recorded. The study reveals order Perciformes (25%) and order Decapoda (79%) were dominant for finfish and shellfish respectively. While in the finfish family Engraulidae (6%), Carangidae (6%) and in the shellfish family Penaeidae (43%) were dominant. Six types of marketing supply chains are available for the distribution of marine fish landings. About 2100 fishing crafts are used to depot their capture in the landing centre. Almost 85,000 fishermen are directly or indirectly involved in the operation of the landing centre.','Mohana fish landing centre, Fish availability, Marketing supply chain, Crafts operating, Digha','Digha Mohana plays a vital role, not only in West Bengal’s economy but also in India’s economy. Out of the recorded species, different species are occasionally found during Monsoon or Winter season, because during that season, many species like hilsha, sardines etc. are migrated near the coastal area for breeding purposes. That peak seasons are important for available wide varieties of fish in the Digha fish landing centre. According to our survey, 5 species belong to the Endangered category, 2 species belong to the Critically Endangered category and 11 species belong to the Near Threatened category. So, there is a critical need for attention on a proper conservation strategy by the Govt. The Fishermen awareness programme is one of the good strategies for controlling the harvest of critical species.','-','Avik Bhanja, Pijush Payra, Basudev Mandal, Manas Das, Sayan Mandal and Tapas Bhunia (2023). A Study on the availability of Marine Fishes in Digha Mohana Fish Landing Centre, Purba Medinipur, West Bengal, India. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 15(4): 279-292.'),(6462,'156','Potential Role of Wheat Varieties in Semi-arid Areas of India with Diverse Mulch Materials','Mehak Nagora, Shweta, Meena Sewhag, Kautilya Chaudhary, Lalit Kumar, Shital Kumar and Anjeeta ','Potential-Role-of-Wheat-Varieties-in-Semi-arid-Areas-of-India-with-Diverse-Mulch-Materials-Mehak-Nagora-49.pdf','',1,'Due to restricted area, increase in crop productivity is the sole choice to fulfil the demand of burgeoning population. In arid and semi-arid regions, wheat yields are considerably constrained by the inadequate water and nutrients supply. Additionally, the regions that are self-sufficient in water and nutrients often have low nutrient and water use efficiency because of inadequate management, resulting in substantial losses in wheat grain output. Increased moisture shortage during the wheat growing season leads to detrimental effect on the plant\'s growth and development. Suitability of cultivars to a specific agro-climate is critical for maximising their yield potential, as plant production efficiency is governed by genotype-environment (G × E) interaction. The environmental conditions that prevail over a particular agro-climatic zone are immutable. However, a crop\'s agronomic methods can be modified to take maximum advantage of environmental elements and to best suit the crop\'s developmental stages. One of the most effective agronomic practises for water-scarce areas is the use of crop residues as a soil cover (mulch) in conservation agriculture (CA). Hence, field experiment was undertaken during Rabi, 2019-20 at research farm of CCS Haryana Agricultural University, Hisar, Haryana. The layout of experiment was RBD with six wheat varieties (V1-WH 1142, V2-WH 1105, V3-HD 2967, V4-WH 1184, V5-HD 3086 and V6- WH 1124) and three mulch treatments (M1- No mulch, M2- Rice straw mulch @ 6 t/ha and M3- Plastic mulch) having three replications. Utilization of mulch improved the growth parameters in terms of dry matter accumulation and LAI except plant population. Highest dry matter accumulation and LAI recorded in WH 1142. Crop under (M2) rice straw mulch reported more soil moisture content and available soil nutrients than (M3) plastic mulch and (M1) no mulch. Sowing of wheat under (M2) rice straw mulch resulting in 29.75 percent higher grain yield than (M1) no mulch. Variations were significant in terms of yield attributes in varieties. Highest grain yield and biological yield were obtained from WH 1142. ','Dry matter accumulation, growth parameters, soil moisture content and yield attributes','Utilization of mulch significantly improved the growth parameters in terms of, dry matter accumulation and LAI except plant population. Among wheat varieties, highest dry matter accumulation and LAI were registered in WH 1142. Crop sown under (M2) rice straw mulch reported more soil moisture content, available soil nutrients than (M3) plastic mulch and (M1) no mulch. Sowing of wheat under (M2) rice straw mulch resulted in significantly higher yield attributes resulting in 29.75 per cent higher grain yield than (M1) no mulch. Among wheat varieties, there was significant variation in terms of yield attributes because of varietal characteristics. Highest grain yield (5466 kg/ha) and biological yield (15318 kg/ha) were obtained from WH 1142. Overall, it can be concluded from the study that growing variety WH 1142 with rice straw mulch @ 6 t ha-1 could help in improving productivity of wheat crop in an economic manner.','-','Mehak Nagora, Shweta, Meena Sewhag, Kautilya Chaudhary, Lalit Kumar, Shital Kumar and Anjeeta (2023). Potential Role of Wheat Varieties in Semi-arid Areas of India with Diverse Mulch Materials. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 15(4): 293-300.'),(6463,'156','Occurrence and Present Situation of Cercospora Leaf Spot Disease of Cotton in South Zone of India','A. Sampathkumar, Venkatesh R. Kulkarni, J.M. Nidagundi and A.H. Prakash','Occurrence-and-Present-Situation-of-Cercospora-Leaf-Spot-Disease-of-Cotton-in-South-Zone-of-India-A-Sampathkumar-50.pdf','',1,'Cercospora leaf spot caused by Cercospora gossypina is considered as minor disease in the past. Now a days the appearance of this disease and incidence is increasing slowly. It is an uphill task to know the presence and severity of the disease in major cotton growing areas of South Zone states namely Karnataka, Telangana, Andhra Pradesh and Tamil Nadu. An extensive survey was conducted to know the current situation and occurrence of Cercospora leaf spot of cotton in major cotton growing districts of South Zone States during 2021-22 crop season. Cercospora leaf spot symptoms were observed in surveyed farmers’ fields at the end of the crop season. Fifty-five cotton fields have been covered for survey in nine major cotton growing districts of Karnataka namely Haveri (8), Gadag (4), Dharwad (8), Belagavi (8), Raichur (9), Vijayapura (7), Kalaburagi (3), Yadagiri (6) and Ballary (2). Disease incidence was recorded from 3.5 to 12.0 Percent Disease Index (PDI) with an average of 6.25 PDI. Maximum disease was recorded in Chikka Sindagi village of Vijayapura district. Fifteen fields have been surveyed in Telangana covering four districts such as Ranga Reddy (2), Warangal (4), Nirmal (5) and Adilabad (4). Moderate to less disease incidence was recorded (3.0 to 7.0 PDI) in hybrids and varieties grown in the region with an average of 5.5 PDI. Maximum (7.0 PDI) was recorded in Damera village of Warangal district. Ten fields in Kurnool district of Andhra Pradesh recorded moderate to less disease incidence (2.5 to 7.0 PDI) with an average of 5.3 PDI among five mandals covered namely Manthralayam (2), Nandavaram (1), Yemmiganur (3), Adoni (2) and Alur (2). Twenty fields were surveyed in Coimbatore district covering three taluks such as Annur (6), Kinathukadavu (5) and Coimbatore (9) and recorded less to moderate (2.0 to 8.5 PDI) disease incidence with an average of 5.5 PDI.','Cercospora leaf spot, Cotton, Survey, Occurrence, Present situation','Cercospora leaf spot of cotton is observed and recorded in all cotton growing states of South Zone. PDI varied from 2.5 to 12.0 in surveyed area. Nutrient and water stress are the two major factors facilitate the pathogen infection and disease severity. Premature defoliation occurs due to this disease which results in immature fibre development. Proper irrigation and nutrient management will reduce the appearance of the Cercospora leaf spot of cotton and yield reduction.','-','A. Sampathkumar, Venkatesh R. Kulkarni, J.M. Nidagundi and A.H. Prakash (2023). Occurrence and Present Situation of Cercospora Leaf Spot Disease of Cotton in South Zone of India. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 15(4): 301-306.'),(6464,'156','Effect of Sulphur and Zinc Fertilization on the Quality and Economics of Soybean (Glycine max L. Merrill) under Nagaland Condition','Watisenla Imsong, Lanunola Tzudir, L.T. Longkumer, T. Gohain and Z. Kawikhonliu','Effect-of-Sulphur-and-Zinc-Fertilization-on-the-Quality-and-Economics-of-Soybean-(Glycine-max-L.-Merrill)-under-Nagaland-Condition-Lanunola-Tzudir-51.pdf','',1,'The role of nutrients is profound in playing a vital role in the quality of soybean crops and as such its supplementation to the crop is pertinent for increased productivity. In relation to this, a field experiment was conducted at the Experimental Research Farm of School and Agricultural Sciences and Rural Development (SASRD), Nagaland University, during the kharif season of 2017 and 2018 to study the effect of different levels of sulphur and zinc fertilization on the quality and economics of soybean (Glycine max L. Merrill) under Nagaland condition. The experiment was laid out in a Factorial Randomized Block Design (RBD) with 15 treatments combinations viz., sulphur @ 0 kg ha-1, 20 kg ha-1, 40 kg ha-1, zinc @ 0 kg ha-1, 5 kg ha-1, 10 kg ha-1, 15 kg ha-1 and 20 kg ha-1 replicated thrice. The results from the two years study showed that the oil and protein content in the crop were significantly influenced by the treatment combination of S20Zn20 as compared to the other levels of treatments. A higher oil and protein content were observed with the application of 20 kg S ha-1 which was comparatively at par with the application of 40 kg S ha-1 and superior over control while 20 kg Zn ha-1 fertilization recorded significantly the highest oil and protein content followed by the application of 15 kg Zn ha-1. In terms of the economics of the treatments, S20Zn20 gave the highest gross returns, net returns and B:C ratio followed by S20Zn15 for both the years and pooled. Thus, based on the results of the two years experiment, the treatment combinations of S20Zn20 was found to be a suitable fertilizer dosage for soybean.','Soybean, Sulphur, Zinc, Protein, Oil content, Economics, B:C ratio','Based on the results of the two years experiment, the treatment combination of 20 kg S ha-1 and 20 kg Zn ha-1 was found to be a suitable fertilizer dosage for soybean compared to the other treatments. The quality parameter of soybean was seen to be significantly influenced by the application of sulphur and zinc at 20 kg S ha-1 and 20 kg Zn ha-1. The application of S20Zn20 also led to good results recording the highest gross returns, net returns and B:C ratio.','-','Watisenla Imsong, Lanunola Tzudir, L.T. Longkumer, T. Gohain and Z. Kawikhonliu (2023). Effect of Sulphur and Zinc Fertilization on the Quality and Economics of Soybean (Glycine max L. Merrill) under Nagaland Condition. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 15(4): 307-312.'),(6465,'156','Effect of Transplanting Date and Integrated Weed Management on Growth, Phenology and Yield of Black Rice (Oryza sativa L.) under SRI','Dolie S., Nongmaithem D., Nakhro A. and Gadi Y.','Effect-of-Transplanting-Date-and-Integrated-Weed-Management-on-Growth,-Phenology-and-Yield-of-Black-Rice-(Oryza-sativa-L.)-under-SRI-Nongmaithem-D-52.pdf','',1,'Delayed transplanting and excessive weed growth cause huge reduction in yield and quality parameters due to higher spikelet sterility and poor plant growth under unfavourable temperature regime and intermittent irrigation practice in system of rice intensification. In this context, a field experiment was conducted to study the effect of transplanting date and integrated weed management on growth, phenology and yield of black rice (Oryza sativa L.) under SRI at the experimental farm of SASRD, Nagaland University, Medziphema campus during the kharif season of 2019 and 2020. The experiment was laid out in split plot design with three transplanting dates in the main plots and five integrated weed management in the sub-plots and replicated thrice. Transplanting on 15th June recorded significantly highest growth attributes, maximum days to 50% flowering, days to 50% physiological maturity, days to maturity and yield of black rice. Among the integrated weed management, pretilachlor @ 0.75 kg ha-1 at 3 DAT fb hand weeding at 40 DAT gave significantly highest growth attributes, phenology and yield of black rice.','Black rice, hand weeding, integrated weed management, phenology, transplanting date, yield','From the above experiment, it can be concluded that transplanting black rice on 15th June with combined application of pretilachlor @ 0.75 kg ha-1 at 3 DAT fb hand weeding at 40 DAT recorded highest growth, phenology and yield of black rice and found to be the best transplanting date and efficient weed management practices for increasing the yield of black rice under SRI.','-','Dolie S., Nongmaithem D., Nakhro A. and Gadi Y. (2023). Effect of Transplanting Date and Integrated Weed Management on Growth, Phenology and Yield of Black Rice (Oryza sativa L.) under SRI. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 15(4): 313-319.'),(6466,'156','Field Evaluation of Papaya Genotypes for Tolerance to Papaya Ringspot Virus under humid Tropics of Kerala','Amrita Manohar, Anu G. Krishnan and Jyothi Bhaskar','Field-Evaluation-of-Papaya-Genotypes-for-Tolerance-to-Papaya-Ringspot-Virus-under-humid-Tropics-of-Kerala-Amrita-Manohar-53.pdf','',1,'Papaya ringspot virus (PRSV), a member of the potyvirus family, is a serious threat to cultivation of papaya across the globe. The identification and development of genotypes resistant to PRSV would be a boon to the farming community. Hence, an experiment was undertaken to study the tolerance level of twenty-five papaya genotypes to PRSV infection under Kerala conditions. Based on the research conducted at College of Agriculture, Kerala Agricultural University, Thrissur, Kerala, during 2021–2022, the disease intensity score was found to range from 1.8 to 5.0. According to the symptoms observed, twenty-five genotypes were classified into moderately resistant (2), moderately susceptible (2), susceptible (17), and highly susceptible (4) categories. So, among the papaya genotypes evaluated, none of them were found to be resistant to PRSV, but the varieties CO 2 and CO 6 were found to have field tolerance to the viral infection.','PRSV, papaya, Carica papaya L., resistance, tolerance, susceptible','In the present study, two TNAU papaya varieties were observed to have field tolerance (moderate resistance) against the papaya ringspot viral infection, whereas the rest of the genotypes fall under the moderate to highly susceptible category of disease intensity score. So, from the present investigation of twenty-five genotypes, the varieties CO 2 and CO 6 were found to possess field tolerance against PRSV under Kerala conditions. Thus, it can be concluded that one of the most effective strategies for disease control is the identification of a resistant or tolerant genotype and resorting to the cultivation of these genotypes or using the genotypes in the hybridisation programme. So, the field tolerant genotypes identified in the present study can be further used for multi locational trails to confirm their tolerance level at different locations in order to identify their use in the hybridisation programme.','-','Amrita Manohar, Anu G. Krishnan and Jyothi Bhaskar (2023). Field Evaluation of Papaya Genotypes for Tolerance to Papaya Ringspot Virus under humid Tropics of Kerala. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 15(4): 320-323.'),(6467,'156','Water Stress induced Trait Association Studies on Yield and Drought Selection Indices in Rice (Oryza sativa L.)','S. Anand, V.G. Jayalekshmy, S. Bhaskar Reddy, M.O. Ankitha and Akhila Ashokan ','Water-Stress-induced-Trait-Association-Studies-on-Yield-and-Drought-Selection-Indices-in-Rice-(Oryza-sativa-L.)-S-Anand-54.pdf','',1,'Drought stress is considered the most serious of all biotic and abiotic stresses affecting rice, resulting in severe yield loss. Detailed understanding regarding the contribution of traits towards yield and identification of the most effective selection indices under diverse soil moisture levels can equip plant breeders in the selection of climate adaptive genotypes. Rice being a crop that is affected severely by water stress, defining specific combinations of drought selection indices for the selection of genotypes that can perform better under water-stressed and non-stressed conditions is mandatory to ensure stable yield. The present study elucidates the relationships between grain yield of contrasting rice genotypes with various drought selection indices for the selection of stress-tolerant and high-yielding genotypes under diverse regimes of water availability. Nine drought selection indices and three contrasting genotypes were used in the study. A comparative evaluation of the grain yield of the genotypes was done under non-stress and drought-stress environments. Drought selection indices were worked out, followed by correlation studies and principal component analysis (PCA). Drought selection indices namely MP, GMP, HM, STI, and YI were identified to be the suitable indicators with significant positive correlations that can be used in selection for high grain yield under both water-stressed and non-stressed conditions. In PCA analysis, two principal components i.e., PC1 and PC2 accounted for 58.98% and 41.02% of the total variation in grain yield. Results from the biplot based on PCA were in line with the interpretations of correlation analysis. Genotypes with higher YSI and RSI values can be utilized to achieve better stability in yield across contrasting soil water conditions in rice.','Water stress, Correlation, PCA, Biplot, Drought selection indices, Drought, Rice','Drought is an important abiotic stress which affects all plant growth processes and yields in rice. The present study on drought section indices helps in deciphering a combinatorial approach in the selection of superior genotypes under drought and well-irrigated environments. Character association studies conducted in the present study revealed that out of the nine drought selection indices, high measures of MP, GMP, HM, STI, and YI values for a genotype are indicative of higher yield and drought resistance. Rice genotypes with higher YSI and RSI values show better stability in yield across contrasting soil water regimes. Multivariate analytical methods prove their accuracy in handling and comparison of yield (under stresses and non-stress) and stress selection indices of diverse rice genotypes and provide a holistic selection approach in rice. Similar studies focusing on superior performance under diverse conditions can provide theoretical support and a material basis for future variety screening and selection in rice breeding.','-','S. Anand, V.G. Jayalekshmy, S. Bhaskar Reddy, M.O. Ankitha and Akhila Ashokan (2023). Water Stress induced Trait Association Studies on Yield and Drought Selection Indices in Rice (Oryza sativa L.). Biological Forum – An International Journal, 15(4): 324-329.'),(6468,'156','Development of Nutritionally enriched Soymilk using a Mixed Probiotic Fermentation by Lacticaseibacillus rhamnosus JCM 1136 and Weissella confusa 30082b','Minnu Sasi, Sandeep Kumar and Anil Dahuja','Development-of-Nutritionally-enriched-Soymilk-using-a-Mixed-Probiotic-Fermentation-by-Lacticaseibacillus-rhamnosus-JCM-1136-and-Weissella-confusa-30082b-Minnu-Sasi-55.pdf','',1,'The soybean products, on account of the presence of health-giving compounds like isoflavones, phospholipids, and polyunsaturated fatty acids, have immense potential to enhance human health. Single strain probiotic soy foods may exhibit many challenges associated to their growth, survival, viability, stability and functionality in food processing, storage and consumption as well as changes of sensory characteristics of probiotic foods. Mixed culture fermentations are generally implemented to stimulate the production of nutritional compounds and enzymes resulting from positive mutual interactions between the bacteria, called protocooperation. With this aim, potential techno-functional properties of soymilk fermented with mixed cultures of Lacticaseibacillus rhamnosus JCM 1136 and Weissella confusa 30082b have been studied. The investigations on the effect of probiotic fermentation after 6, 24, 30, 48 h and 7th day of storage indicate a decrease in pH (5.76 to 4.76), an increase in titratable acidity (0.19% to 0.47%), an increase in TAO (33.13-67.86%), reduction in phytic acid (1.185-0.339g per 100g), increase in free mineral content- Fe (0.31-2.08μg/ml) & Zn (0.26-1.15μg/ml), bioconversion of isoflavone glycosides into more bioavailable aglycones (daidzein-18.708-99.24; glycitein- 18.586- 43.41; genistein-20.778-67.64µg/10ml), detected for unfermented control and 1%(v/v) mixed culture fermented soymilk, respectively. The viable count of bacteria was maintained up to 3.32 × 108 CFU/ml for mixed cultures after 7 days of storage at 4oC. However, the values of nutritive factors were observed to be augmented and anti-nutritional factors seemed to be reduced after mixed culture fermentation. Hence, mixed culture fermentation with Lacticaseibacillus rhamnosus JCM 1136 and Weissella confusa 30082 bis an ideal strategy to guide consumers towards appropriate prophylactic and therapeutic uses of probiotics that deliver the desired beneficial health effects.','Lactic acid bacteria; mixed fermentation; nutraceutical potential; mineral bioavailability; phytic- acid; isoflavones','Mixed culture fermentations are generally implemented to stimulate the production of nutritional compounds and enzymes resulting from positive mutual interactions between the bacteria, called protocooperation. Our studies indicate that the interaction between these strains with homofermentative (L. rhamnosus) and heterofermentative (W. confusa 30082b) metabolisms increased the yield of metabolites which could stimulate the growth of these microorganisms, thus increasing the cell viability. As a result of fermentation, there was the production of lactic acid, acetic acid, ethanol, and CO2, which combinedly reduced the pH of the soymilk from 6.0 to 4.5 while enhancing the titratable acidity from 0.10 to 0.33%. As a consequence, the action of β- glucosidases and phytases were found to increase, leading to the enhanced bioconversion of isoflavone glucosides to aglycones as well as phytic acid to free phosphate. The generation of genistein and daidzein aglycones which are potent antioxidants boosted the antioxidant activity of soymilk. The degradation of phytate, a metal chelating ANF, enhanced the bioavailable content of Fe and Zn in the fermented soymilk. \r\n Overall, mixed culture fermentations with probiotic bacteria were manifested to enhance the microbial stability and fitness, shelf life, and safety of the fermented food products. The co-inoculation of Weissella confusa and L. rhamnosus could reproduce the metabolic and microbial processes of fermentation, enhancing the nutritional and sensory quality of the fermented products. Also, for the more efficacious utilization of soybean, which harbours a plethora of ANFs, it is desirable to carry out mixed culture fermentation to lower their concentrations. Also, it could improve the sensory properties, and microstructure and increase the bioavailability of nutrients and yield of targeted bioactive compounds either through microbial synthesis or by augmenting the digestibility of the fermented product. The drawback of commercial soy- probiotics is the inability to deliver sufficient probiotics to the acidic lower gastrointestinal tract, which entails developing a more peculiar target delivery system and proper formulations. The industrial production of probiotics is still challenging because of their prerequisite for a rich culture media anaerobic environment, maintaining an optimal fermentation process and assembling the final product while perpetuating its quality. In the future, to cope with the pitfalls of probiotic soy foods and enhance their functionality, a better understanding of the probiosis mechanisms and more advanced cultivation technologies need to be formulated.\r\n','-','Minnu Sasi, Sandeep Kumar and Anil Dahuja (2023). Development of Nutritionally enriched Soymilk using a Mixed Probiotic Fermentation by Lacticaseibacillus rhamnosus JCM 1136 and Weissella confusa 30082b. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 15(4): 330-340.'),(6469,'156','Potential Benefits of an Ethanopharmacological Herb: A Systematic Analysis on Velvet Bean (Mucuna pruriens L.)','Indla Ravi, Manivannan E., V. Sivasankari and Kothai Ramalingam','Potential-Benefits-of-an-Ethanopharmacological-Herb-A-Systematic-Analysis-on-Velvet-Bean-(Mucuna-pruriens-L.)-Indla-Ravi-57.pdf','',4,'The plant Mucuna pruriens, also known as cow-age, cowitch, velvet bean is belongs to the family of the leguminosae and has been used in Indian medicine for centuries. The plant is known for its therapeutic properties and has been used to treat various ailments such as Parkinson\'s disease, infertility, and sexual dysfunction. It contains high levels of L-DOPA, a precursor to the neurotransmitter dopamine, which plays a crucial role in regulating mood, motivation, and movement. L-DOPA, an amino acid that serves as a direct precursor to the neurotransmitter dopamine, which is widely used to treat Parkinson\'s disease, can be found naturally in M. pruriens seed (PD). In addition to L-DOPA, M. pruriens also contains the chemicals serotonin, oxitriptan, nicotine, N,N-DMT, and bufotenine. Mucuna is regarded as a potent aphrodisiac, geriatric tonic, and vermifuge in ancient Ayurveda literature. Additionally, it is used to treat other conditions like tuberculosis, edema, constipation, fever, and irregular menstruation. Mucuna pruriens is also grown as a green manure crop, an ornamental plant, living mulch, and a food crop. This review provides an overview of M. pruriens\' botany, applications, phytochemical components, and pharmacological properties.','Mucuna pruriens, Photochemistry, Behavioural changes, Ethanopharmacological Benefits, Antidiabetic, Antianxiety, Anti venom, Aphrodisiac, Adverse Drug Reactions','M. pruriens is an intriguing herb with numerous applications in pharmacological preparation; the antioxidants that are present in Mucuna Pruriens have a great role in managing neurobehavioral conditions. In addition to its antifungal and antibacterial, aphrodisiac, antiparkinsonian, hypoglycaemic, and anti-venom properties, M. pruriens has potential applications in pharmacological preparations due to its intriguing properties. Further research is needed to fully understand the effects of the antioxidants present in M. pruriens on managing neurobehavioral conditions and their potential to impact on the Central Nervous System.','-','Indla Ravi, Manivannan E., V. Sivasankari and Kothai Ramalingam (2023). Potential Benefits of an Ethanopharmacological Herb: A Systematic Analysis on Velvet Bean (Mucuna pruriens L.). Biological Forum – An International Journal, 15(4): 346-349.'),(6470,'156','Immunomodulatory Potential of Simarouba glauca DC., Leaf and Stem Bark extract, in vivo','N. Navya, K. Sandesh, Rajeshwara N. Achur and N.B. Thippeswamy','Immunomodulatory-Potential-of-Simarouba-glauca-DC.,-Leaf-and-Stem-Bark-extract,-in-vivo-N-Navya-58.pdf','',4,'Natural products are celebrated to primarily modulate the immune system in nonspecific ways. A number of plant-based principles have been acknowledged and isolated with potential immunomodulation activity which validate their use in traditional folklore medicine and can form the base of further specified research. Here, we investigated the immunomodulatory activity of Simarouba glauca DC., leaves and stem bark extract at the doses of 100, 200 and 300 mg/kg body weight in mice followed by the immunostimulatory activity as cyclophosphamide suppressed immune system, phagocytic activity using carbon clear test, T-cell population test and anti-inflammatory activity were carried out. In the carbon clearance test, SGL and SGB extracts exhibited a significantly high phagocytic index indicating the stimulation of reticuloendothelial system. A significant decrease in mean difference, in the foot paw thickness in carrageenan-induced paw edema activity, indicates its anti-inflammatory activity. Both SGL and SGB aqueous extract treated groups at 200 and 300 mg/kg doses showed a significant increase in T-cell population due to raise in T-cell rosette formation. These results confirm the immunomodulatory activity of SGL and SGB aqueous extract, which is a known immunomodulator in indigenous medicine.','Immunomodulators, Simarouba glauca DC., T-cell rosette assay, anti-inflammatory','Overall, the present study affirms that the aqueous extract of Simarouba glauca DC., leaves and stem bark is an effective immunomodulatory agent. The effectiveness of extract‑treated animals in overcoming the side effects of CP-induced immunosuppression provides evidence for the balancing and adaptogenic effectiveness by exhibiting a similar mechanism as that of levamisole in restoring immunosuppression. These results also support the fact that water-soluble components derived from these extracts have an important effect on the immune system and can effectively modulate immunological interactions. Thus, based on this preliminary study, it can be concluded that the SGL and SGB aqueous extracts hold the promise for its use as a novel immunostimulating agent. However, further detailed studies are needed to validate these findings. ','-','N. Navya, K. Sandesh, Rajeshwara N. Achur and N.B. Thippeswamy (2023). Immunomodulatory Potential of Simarouba glauca DC., Leaf and Stem Bark extract, in vivo. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 15(4): 350-357.'),(6471,'156','New Record of Six-spot Ground Beetle Anthia (Anthia) sexguttata sexguttata (Fabricius, 1775) (Coleoptera : Carabidae) from Jehanabad, Bihar (India), with its Systematic Account, Distribution and Beneficial Role','Akhlaq Husain and Wajid Hasan','New-Record-of-Six-spot-Ground-Beetle-Anthia-(Anthia)-sexguttata-sexguttata-(Fabricius,-1775)-(Coleoptera-Carabidae)-from-Jehanabad,-Bihar-(India),-with-its-Systematic-Account-AKHLAQ-HUSAIN-59.pdf','',4,'The present communication deals with the new record of Anthia (Anthia) sexguttata sexguttata, the Six-spot Ground Beetle, belonging to family Carabidae under order Coleoptera, from Jehanabad, Bihar (India). Its adults and larvae feed on agriculture pests mainly on soil which also sometimes ascend to vegetation around in search of their preferred food and hence is considered a beneficial predator, playing a major role in biological control of insect pests. In view of this a detailed account with systematic account, altitudinal range, distribution, habitat, food & feeding, life cycle, beneficial role and self-defence, is provided here.','New record, Anthia (Anthia) sexguttata sexguttata, Jehanabad, Bihar','-','-','Akhlaq Husain and Wajid Hasan (2023). New Record of Six-spot Ground Beetle Anthia (Anthia) sexguttata sexguttata (Fabricius, 1775) (Coleoptera: Carabidae) from Jehanabad, Bihar (India), with its Systematic Account, Distribution and Beneficial Role. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 15(4): 358-362.'),(6472,'156','Knowledge, Attitude and Practice of Hospital Pharmacists towards Pharmacovigilance and Adverse Drug Reaction Reporting in RDT Hospital in Battalapalli','Kommanuru Venkata Ramakrishna Teja, Yiragamreddy Padmanabha Reddy and Nayakanti Devanna','Knowledge,-Attitude-and-Practice-of-Hospital-Pharmacists-towards-Pharmacovigilance-and-Adverse-Drug-Reaction-Reporting-in-RDT-Hospital-in-Battalapalli-Kommanuru-Venkata-Ramakrishna-Teja-60.pdf','',4,'Pharmacovigilance (PV) is essential for evaluating the risk-benefit ratio of medications and promoting their safe, sane, and efficient use, thereby improving patient safety and care. As specialists in drugs, pharmacists are jointly accountable for maintaining the safety of medications. An evaluation of hospital pharmacists\' knowledge, attitudes, and practises regarding reporting adverse drug reactions (ADRs) and pharmacovigilance (PV), as well as the identification of variables that deter hospital pharmacists from reportage ADRs, were the goals of the study carried out at RDT Hospital in Battalapalli, Andhra Pradesh, India. Since they have little knowledge of PV and ADR, it is difficult to educate chemists and patients about them. To collect data, a pre-tested self-administered questionnaire was given to every hospital chemist who agreed to take part in the study. Data were gathered for the study over 26 months, from November 2017 to January 2020, and were then processed with Microsoft Excel 2023. The link between the various variables was investigated using descriptive statistics, frequency/percentage calculations, and Pearson\'s Chi-square test. The survey had 74 pharmacists in total, with Pharm D trainees, who provided answers to different questions in both Telugu and English. The study\'s key conclusion is that 95% of participants were aware of the ADR reportage system\'s existence. According to our study, there is a large discrepancy between adverse events that patients report and those that healthcare professionals (HCP) describe (39.71%). The study found that the participants had a favourable attitude towards reportage adverse drug reactions (ADR) and pharmacovigilance (PV).We deduced from the current study that there is a substantial difference between adverse events reported and those encountered; moreover, while our HCPs have excellent knowledge and attitudes on PV, their practises are subpar. ADR reporting is low among our trained HCPs, even though there is a substantial positive link between PV training and ADR reporting. However, the primary reasons preventing the reporting of ADRs were found as the lack of a professional setting to discuss ADRs and a lack of pharmacotherapy/clinical expertise. Overall, the chemists displayed strong ADR reportage practice and had average to good awareness of and attitudes concerning PV and ADR reportage. The research recommends that the idea of PV and ADR reportage be enhanced even further because there is so much room for development.','Adverse drug reactions reporting, Pharmacovigilance, Pharmacists, Survey','The results of our research showed that the RDT hospital\'s pharmacists had a satisfactory KAP, positive attitudes, and usually sound information, which was apparent in their field of work. Most pharmacists concurred that required reportage will improve drug safety and recognise the significance of PV. The majority also agreed that pharmacists and other HCPs should work together and that HCPs need to receive comprehensive PV training. PV instruction and ADR filing had a strong relationship. The absence of a professional context was considered to be the greatest obstacle stopping pharmacists from recording. According to our research, India\'s current PV initiatives have a tonne of space for improvement.','-','Kommanuru Venkata Ramakrishna Teja, Yiragamreddy Padmanabha Reddy and Nayakanti Devanna (2023). Knowledge, Attitude and Practice of Hospital Pharmacists towards Pharmacovigilance and Adverse Drug Reaction Reporting In RDT Hospital in Battalapalli. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 15(4): 363-368.'),(6473,'156','Gross and Histopathological Lesions in Intestine of Goats Affected with Parasitic Diseases in Eastern Plain Zone of Uttar Pradesh','Rakesh Kumar Gupta, Debasish Niyogi, Krishna Kant Tripathi, Desh Deepak Singh, Amit Singh and Vijendra Kumar Pal ','Gross-and-Histopathological-Lesions-in-Intestine-of-Goats-Affected-with-Parasitic-Diseases-in-Eastern-Plain-Zone-of-Uttar-Pradesh-Rakesh-Kumar-Gupta-61.pdf','',4,'Present study was conducted to explore the gross and histopathological lesions in intestine of goats naturally affected with parasitic infections in eastern plain zone of Uttar Pradesh. The post-mortem examination of dead goats was conducted for any gross lesions in intestine and samples showing lesions suggestive of parasitic infections were collected and preserved in 10% buffer formalin saline solution for histopathological study. Grossly, haemorrhagic and erosive lesions along with sloughed ruminal mucosa and papilla, severe to moderate haemorrhag¬es and thickened mucosal wall, blood mixed faeces or intestinal contents were noticed in the intestine. Microscopically, intestine showed congestion of vessels, haemorrhages, necrosis of intestinal epithelium, blunting of intestinal villi with desquamation of epithelium from mucosal surface. Hyperplasia of goblet cell, necrosis and replacement of glands of Leiberkuhn’s by inflammatory cells mainly mononuclear cells were also noticed. Lesions were more common in jejunum and ileum except in Trichuris infection in which lesion was common in caecum. Affected villi and crypts of intestine also revealed different developmental stages of coccidian oocyst infiltration of mononuclear cells (monocytes and lymphocytes) in cases of coccidiosis.','Pathomorphological changes, goat, parasitic diseases, Eastern Uttar Pradesh','It may be concluded from gross and histopathological study of intestine in goats died due to diarrhoea that major changes occur in small intestine and are characterized by congestion, haemorrhages, necrosis of crypts, desquamation of epithelial cells, blunting of villi with infiltration of inflammatory cells mainly mononuclear cells. Developmental stages are also found in affected tissues in case of coccidiosis. The pathological changes observed in cases of coccidiosis, amphistomiasis, strongyles and Trichuris infections might help in differential diagnosis with other infections viz., salmonellosis, giardiasis, coronavirus infections, tapeworm infections, cryptosporidiosis. In field condition, post-mortem examination provides correct and rapid diagnosis on the basis of characteristics and pathognomic lesions.','-','Rakesh Kumar Gupta, Debasish Niyogi, Krishna Kant Tripathi, Desh Deepak Singh, Amit Singh and Vijendra Kumar Pal (2023). Gross and Histopathological Lesions in Intestine of Goats Affected with Parasitic Diseases in Eastern Plain Zone of Uttar Pradesh. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 15(4): 369-373.'),(6474,'156','Menstruation Hygiene Practices and Prevalence of Poly Cystic Ovarian Syndrome in Young Adult Girls: A Case Study','V.M. Vyshali, K.R. Sumalatha, S. Sushmitha and H. Deeksha','Menstruation-Hygiene-Practices-and-Prevalence-of-Poly-Cystic-Ovarian-Syndrome-in-Young-Adult-Girls-A-Case-Study-K.R.-Sumalatha-62.pdf','',4,'The study was performed to evaluate menstrual practices in young adult girls and the incidence of polycystic ovarian syndrome. Periods, also known as menstruations, are regular vaginal bleeding that take place as part of a woman\'s monthly cycle. The monthly hormonal preparation a woman\'s body goes through for a potential pregnancy is known as the menstrual cycle. In the years between puberty and menopause, regular menstrual cycles are typically a sign that the body is in good health. Periods that are heavy, painful, or irregular are not typical. Premenstrual syndrome (PMS) symptoms are common in females. It includes the most prevalent typical symptoms, such as minor cramps and exhaustion, but these go away once the period starts. Too much or too little bleeding, or the complete lack of a cycle, may indicate that other problems are causing the irregular menstrual cycle. The health of young women is significantly influenced by menstrual hygiene. Menstrual health and hygiene issues practiced by girls and others who menstruate have recently received attention as a significant public health issue, leading to the development of new studies, programmes and the major challenge of the researchers is to lower period deficiencies and confiscate the insistent disgrace associated with menstruation. Henceforth the primary emphasis of this study is adolescent females\' menstruation issues to find the derivation. The main goals of the current study are to determine how aware teenage girls are of menstrual issues, to investigate these issues in girls, and to show how lifestyle choices can negatively affect women\'s menstrual health and increase the prevalence of disorders like polycystic ovarian syndrome (PCOS). ','Menstruation, PCOS, menstrual health, menstrual disorders, menarche','Menstrual health is an essential aspect of overall health and well-being for people who menstruate. Understanding and managing menstrual disorders, such as polycystic ovarian syndrome (PCOS), is crucial to ensuring a healthy menstrual cycle. Menstrual disorders such as dysmenorrhea, irregular periods, and heavy bleeding can significantly impact a person\'s quality of life. It\'s essential to seek medical attention if experiencing any abnormal menstrual symptoms or discomfort. Educating oneself and others about menstrual health and disorders can help reduce the stigma surrounding menstruation and promote healthy menstrual habits. Overall, prioritizing menstrual health is crucial for individuals to live their lives to the fullest potential and manage conditions like PCOS.','-','V.M. Vyshali, K.R. Sumalatha, S. Sushmitha and H. Deeksha (2023). Menstruation Hygiene Practices and Prevalence of Poly Cystic Ovarian Syndrome in Young Adult Girls: A Case Study. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 15(4): 374-378.'),(6475,'156','Influence of Growth Regulators on Canopy Management of Fruit Crops- A Review','Rahul R. Rodge, Rajni Rajan, Madhurima Chaudhuri, Harjinder Kaur and Lakhesing Girase ','Influence-of-Growth-Regulators-on-Canopy-Management-of-Fruit-Crops--A-Review-Rahul-R-Rodge-63.pdf','',4,'This review examines the effect of growth regulators on canopy management in fruit crops, focusing on the development and maintenance of their structure in relation to size and shape in order to achieve optimal productivity and fruit quality. Some Plant Growth Regulators (PGRs) are chemical substances that modulate natural hormonal functions to affect plant growth and development. PGRs can be utilized to enhance or decrease the height of plants. Many producers recognize that plant growth retardant is an effective tool for controlling plant development, such as Paclobutrazol helpful in significantly lowering the tree\'s height and canopy volume. Promalin encourages and morphactin hindered vegetative development at numerous sites with reduced canopy surface area. Ethrel was the only plant growth regulator increasing vegetative shoot growth in non-bearing apple trees, as well as the canopy management of guava orchards. Consequently, there is immense scope for improvement in comprehending the effect of growth regulators on the canopy management of different fruit crops. The major challenges in this area is that it is difficult to manage proper length width of canopy through training, pruning and also it require skill labors and proper time management to manage canopy. Here in this review, we explained alternative way in different fruit crop to manage canopy using some new growth promoters and growth inhibitors to manage canopy easily or effectively. ','Canopy, PGRs, growth promoters, inhibitors, fruit, management','This review leads us to the conclusion that some growth regulators and growth inhibitors play an effective role in canopy management, such as the application of Auxin paste to increase the crotch angle width of apples and the application of NAA to reduce shoot growth and control canopy size in high density orchard systems. Different pruning levels and benzyladenine (BA) were significantly efficient in enhancing apple cultivar budwood yield. Red Chief, Early Red One, Gale Gala, and Vance Delicious Significant effects of growth retardants on reduced tree height, canopy size, and spread Paclobutrazol soil and foliar sprays used to high density plantings of sweet cherry, peach, and plum decreased vegetative growth for two to three years. The application of different concentrations of paclobutrazol to \"Lisbon\" lemon trees decreased shoot and internode length while increasing shoot diameter. Also, three weeks later, the soil was sprayed with paclobutrazol at a rate of 1.5 g/m2 and their internodal lengths were significantly shorter. In just one year, the canopy diameters of the treated trees were lowered by 19.33 percent in height and 15.81 percent in width. The size of the canopy was optimised for dense planting. Promalin stimulates the development of side branches in young cherry plants. It is known that morphactins hinder shoot growth and internode elongation. Additionally, ethylene causes the commencement of flower buds and is therefore effective in crop canopy management. Hence, in future there is scope for canopy management using these new growth hormones for better productivity. ','-','Rahul R. Rodge, Rajni Rajan, Madhurima Chaudhuri, Harjinder Kaur and Lakhesing Girase (2023). Influence of Growth Regulators on Canopy Management of Fruit Crops- A Review. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 15(4): 379-384.'),(6476,'156','Phytochemical Analysis and Bioactive Components of a Medicinal Plant Acalypha paniculata Miq.','K. Bhavadharaniparkavi and P. Abirami','Phytochemical-Analysis-and-Bioactive-Components-of-a-Medicinal-Plant-Acalypha-paniculata-Miq.-K-Bhavadharaniparkavi-64.pdf','',4,'In the current study, ethyl acetate and methanol extracts of Acalypha paniculata were analyzed using Gas Chromatography and Mass Spectrometry (GC-MS) to identify the bioactive components. The preliminary qualitative phytochemical tests for the presence of carbohydrates, flavonoids, alkaloids, tannins, saponins, phenols, fatty acids, gums and mucilage were carried out according to the standard technique. Using Perkin-Elmer Gas Chromatography-Mass Spectra, the chemical contents of the methanolic and ethyl acetate extract of Acalypha paniculata were examined. The result revealed the presence of 7 compounds from ethyl acetate extract and 4 compounds from methanol extract whereas, Ethane, 1,2,2-trichloro-1,1-difluoro, Methane, oxybis[dichloro, Trichloromethane, Nonadecanoic acid, Methane, dichloronitro, L-Gala-L-Ido-octose, Methane, bromodichloro and Methane, oxybis[dichloro (47.214%), 4-amino-3-methoxypyrazolo[3,4-d] pyrimide (22.465%) were major compounds. The compounds identified by GC-MS in ethyl acetate and methanol extract may be medicinally important and possess different pharmaceutical applications. The identified phytocomponents needs further research on toxicological aspects to develop safe drugs.','Acalypha paniculata, Phytochemistry, Secondary metabolites, GC-MS','The GC-MS analysis of Acalypha paniculata determines the number of phytochemicals in their plant extract. Most plant extracts had some biological activities which are used in the field of medicine. These plants were used from ancient times in foods and medicines to treat pimples, stomach aches, kidney problems, hernia, body pain, anaemia and antidote. So that it can be recommended as a plant phytopharmaceutical importance. Further investigations are required to determine the nature and toxicity of substances present in the Acalypha paniculata.','-','K. Bhavadharaniparkavi and P. Abirami (2023). Phytochemical Analysis and Bioactive Components of a Medicinal Plant Acalypha paniculata Miq. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 15(4): 385-392.'),(6477,'156','Scenario of Bacterial Leaf Blight of Rice caused by Xanthomonas oryzae pv. oryzae in Major Rice Growing Regions of Karnataka','Ashwini S., Vidyashankar D., Prashanthi S.K. and Shruthi Mallikarjun Kolur','Scenario-of-Bacterial-Leaf-Blight-of-Rice-caused-by-Xanthomonas-oryzae-pv.-oryzae-in-Major-Rice-Growing-Regions-of--Karnataka-Ashwini-S-65.pdf','',4,'Bacterial leaf blight (BLB) disease caused by Xanthomonas oryzae pv. oryzae (Xoo) is one of the major biotic constraints in rice production. The disease causes 20–40% yield loss at tillering stage and, overall, 50–80% yield loss in case of severity. So there is a need to understand the current occurrence of bacterial blight on rice in the major rice growing regions in Karnataka in order to develop the necessary management measures to successfully combat the disease. Roving survey was carried out in major rice growing districts of Karnataka viz., Belagavi, Davanagere, Dharwad, Haveri, Koppal, Shivamogga and Uttar Kannada during kharif 2019 to assess the rice bacterial leaf blight severity (BLB). During survey, Belagavi district recorded the highest BLB severity (45.23 %) and lesser severity of 16.86 per cent was recorded in Haveri district. Among the different varieties observed during survey, maximum mean per cent leaf blight severity was recorded in BPT-5204 (54.18%) and least mean per cent leaf blight was recorded in Navali Sali (7.69%). Among the different growth stages of the crop, the maximum bacterial leaf blight severity was noticed during panicle initiation stage (44.98%) and least severity in tillering stage (21.20%). Three biochemical tests (KOH, Starch hydrolysis and methyl red test) were conducted to characterize isolates of Xoo. All the Xoo isolates showed positive reaction to KOH and starch hydrolysis test and negative to methyl red test.','Rice, Bacterial leaf blight, Xanthomonas oryzae pv. oryzae, Per cent disease index (PDI)','An intensive roving survey was carried out in major rice growing districts of Karnataka viz., Belagavi, Davanagere, Dharwad, Haveri, Koppal, Shivamogga and Uttar Kannada during kharif 2019. Belagavi district recorded the highest BLB severity (45.23 %) and least severity of 16.86 per cent was recorded in Haveri district. The maximum mean per cent leaf blight severity was recorded in BPT-5204 (54.18%) and least recorded in Navali Sali (7.69%). The maximum bacterial leaf blight severity was noticed during panicle initiation stage (44.98%) and least in tillering stage (21.20%). Three biochemical tests that were conducted to characterize 21 isolates of Xoo showed positive reaction to KOH test, starch hydrolysis and negative to methyl red test.','-','Ashwini S., Vidyashankar D., Prashanthi S.K. and Shruthi Mallikarjun Kolur (2023). Scenario of Bacterial Leaf Blight of Rice caused by Xanthomonas oryzae pv. oryzae in Major Rice Growing Regions of Karnataka. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 15(4): 393-399.'),(6478,'156','Genetic Parameters, Correlation and Path Analysis for Yield and Yield Contributing Traits in Post Rainy Groundnut (Arachis hypogaea L.)','S.A. Shendekar, M.V. Nagesh Kumar, M.R. Meshram, D.P. Gadpayale, T. Venu Yadav and H.K. Sudini','Genetic-Parameters,-Correlation-and-Path-Analysis-for-Yield-and-Yield-Contributing-Traits-in-Post-Rainy-Groundnut-(Arachis-hypogaea-L.)-SA-Shendekar-66.pdf','',4,'Direct selection for yield is misleading because of complex nature of trait and due to varied influence of environment. Indirect selection through yield contributing traits can greatly enhance efficiency of plant breeding. During post rainy (2019-20), thirty-six elite groundnut genotypes were evaluated in alfa lattice design for different genetic parameters. The observations were recorded on days to 50 % flowering, days to maturity, fresh pod yield per plant, dry pod yield per plant, hundred seed weight and shelling percentage. The analysis of variance revealed significant differences among the selected genotypes for all the traits under study at 0.01 probability levels indicate significant variability among the genotypes evaluated. Dry pod yield per plant and fresh pod yield per plant reported higher GCV and PCV estimates. High heritability coupled with high genetic advance were reported for fresh pod yield per pant, dry pod yield per plant and hundred seed weight. Dry pod yield per plant showed significant and positive connection with fresh pod yield per plant and hundred seed weight and significant negative association with shelling percentage. Path coefficient analysis revealed that traits such as fresh pod yield per plant, shelling percentage and hundred seed weight exhibited high direct effect on dry pod yield per plant indicating true and perfect relationship between them.','Groundnut, variability, heritability, correlation','Direct selection for yield is not possible because yield is complex trait and which were affected by environmental effect in great extent. Yield can be enhanced by indirect selection of traits which are linked to traits. Dry pod yield per plant showed significant and positive association with fresh pod yield per plant and hundred seed weight and significant negative association with shelling percentage. Path coefficient analysis reveal that traits such as fresh pod yield per plant, shelling percentage and hundred seed weight exhibited high direct effect on dry pod yield per plant indicating true and perfect relationship between them.','-','S.A. Shendekar, M.V. Nagesh Kumar, M.R. Meshram, D.P. Gadpayale, T. Venu Yadav and H.K. Sudini (2023). Genetic Parameters, Correlation and Path Analysis for Yield and Yield Contributing Traits in Post Rainy Groundnut (Arachis hypogaea L.). Biological Forum – An International Journal, 15(4): 400-404.'),(6479,'125','Efficacy of Newer Group of Insecticides against Whitefly on Okra, \r\nAbelmoschus esculentus L. (Moench)\r\n','Bhawani Singh Meena, Vipin Kumar, Pooja Sharma, Sanyia Tyagi and Sushila Choudhary','275 Efficacy of Newer Group of Insecticides Against Whitefly on Okra,-Bhawani Singh Meena-275.pdf','',1,'The present experiment was undertaken to study the “Efficacy of newer group of insecticides against whitefly on okra, Abelmoschus esculentus L. (Moench) during Kharif season 2018 at the vegetable research farm, B.H.U., Varanasi. The experiment consisted nine treatments including control. Concerning the efficacy of insecticides it was observed that Indoxacarb 14.5% + Acetamiprid 7.7% SC @ 72.5 + 38.5 g a.i ha–1 was found to be very effective against whiteflies followed by Indoxacarb14.5% + Acetamiprid 7.7% SC @58+30.8 g a.i ha–1 and Acetamiprid 20% SP @ 38.5 g a.i ha–1 while Cypermethrin 10% EC @ 600 g a.i ha–1 found least effective after the 3rd insecticide spraying. Whereas, rest of treatments like Indoxacarb 14.5% SC @ 72.5 g a.i ha–1, Chlorpyrifos 50% + Cypermethrin 5% EC@500+50 g a.i ha–1, Chlorpyrifos 50% EC @ 600 g a.i ha–1, Chlorpyrifos 50% + Cypermethrin 5% EC 375+37.5 g a.i ha–1 and Fenpropathrin 30% EC @ 100 g a.i ha–1showed moderate efficacy against whitefly.','okra crop, Abelmoschus esculentus L., insecticides, whitefly','From the present result Indoxacarb 14.5% SC @ 72.5 g a.i ha–1, Indoxacarb14.5% + Acetamiprid 7.7% SC @ 72.5+38.5 g a.i ha–1 treated plots were the best and most effective which recorded the highest yield of marketable fruits.','-','Bhawani Singh Meena, Vipin Kumar, Pooja Sharma, Sanyia Tyagi and Sushila Choudhary (2022). Efficacy of Newer Group of Insecticides Against Whitefly on Okra, Abelmoschus esculentus L. (Moench). Biological Forum – An International Journal, 14(2): 1595-1601.'),(6480,'156','BP-1C Targets Inflammatory Hypoxic Tumor Micro Environment to Counteract ROS Mediated Angiogenesis in Lung Cancer','Ankith Sherapura, B.M. Siddesh, Y.L. Ramachandra and B.T. Prabhakar','BP-1C-Targets-Inflammatory-Hypoxic-Tumor-Micro-Environment-to-Counteract-ROS-Mediated-Angiogenesis-in-Lung-Cancer-BT-Prabhakar-56.pdf','',1,'Lung Cancer is a prime and defied malignancy tumor with multiple hall marks of cancer. Establishing the treatment strategy for lung cancer is extremely challenging due to aggressive adaptation of cancerous cell to TME. The ROS, inflammation and hypoxia are the major key parameters which are interconnected and interdependent in lung cancer responsible for angiogenesis. Understanding the relationship between these TME parameters could be the advantageous to develop the therapeutic targets. Previously we have reported that, BP-1C induces apoptosis and anti-angiogenesis mediated antitumor properties in both ascites and solid tumor model. Further investigation has identified JAK2/STAT3 signaling mediated regression of lung cancer. Current research postulates that, BP-1C targets pathological features of Lung TME, particularly ROS and hypoxia to counteract lung cancer. The in-vitro study results revealed that, BP-1C reduces hypoxia as verified by EF5, a hypoxic marker and reduced ROS and lipid per oxidation assay with increased Glutathione. Further, reduced pro-inflammatory cytokines such IL-6, IL-1β and TNF-α, as well as angiogenic players such as VEGF, MMP-2 & 9 were evident. The results correlates with earlier findings of BP-1C medicated affect, such as induction of apoptosis and anti-angiogenesis. The current investigation establishes molecular cause of these events induced by BP-1C. The research outcome states that, BP-1C could be developed as an effective target specific molecule to counteract Lung cancer.','Lung cancer, ROS, Inflammation, Hypoxia, BP-1C, Angiogenesis','The current investigation postulates the multi-mode approach of the BP-1C in exhibiting its anti-tumor property. The results authenticated the BP-1C counteract both ROS and hypoxia. The BP-1C effectively reduced the ROS and hypoxic TME and its associated angiogenic gene expression. Overall, BP-1C is a potent anti-neoplastic agent with multi-target drug for therapeutic approach of lung cancer. ','-','Ankith Sherapura, B.M. Siddesh, Y.L. Ramachandra and B.T. Prabhakar (2023). ¬¬¬BP-1C Targets Inflammatory Hypoxic Tumor Micro Environment to Counteract ROS Mediated Angiogenesis in Lung Cancer. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 15(4): 341-345.'),(6481,'156','Potential Benefits of an Ethanopharmacological Herb: A Systematic Analysis on Velvet Bean (Mucuna pruriens L.)','Indla Ravi, Manivannan E., V. Sivasankari and Kothai Ramalingam','Potential-Benefits-of-an-Ethanopharmacological-Herb-A-Systematic-Analysis-on-Velvet-Bean-(Mucuna-pruriens-L.)-Indla-Ravi-57.pdf','',1,'The plant Mucuna pruriens, also known as cow-age, cowitch, velvet bean is belongs to the family of the leguminosae and has been used in Indian medicine for centuries. The plant is known for its therapeutic properties and has been used to treat various ailments such as Parkinson\'s disease, infertility, and sexual dysfunction. It contains high levels of L-DOPA, a precursor to the neurotransmitter dopamine, which plays a crucial role in regulating mood, motivation, and movement. L-DOPA, an amino acid that serves as a direct precursor to the neurotransmitter dopamine, which is widely used to treat Parkinson\'s disease, can be found naturally in M. pruriens seed (PD). In addition to L-DOPA, M. pruriens also contains the chemicals serotonin, oxitriptan, nicotine, N,N-DMT, and bufotenine. Mucuna is regarded as a potent aphrodisiac, geriatric tonic, and vermifuge in ancient Ayurveda literature. Additionally, it is used to treat other conditions like tuberculosis, edema, constipation, fever, and irregular menstruation. Mucuna pruriens is also grown as a green manure crop, an ornamental plant, living mulch, and a food crop. This review provides an overview of M. pruriens\' botany, applications, phytochemical components, and pharmacological properties.','Mucuna pruriens, Photochemistry, Behavioural changes, Ethanopharmacological Benefits, Antidiabetic, Antianxiety, Anti venom, Aphrodisiac, Adverse Drug Reactions','M. pruriens is an intriguing herb with numerous applications in pharmacological preparation; the antioxidants that are present in Mucuna Pruriens have a great role in managing neurobehavioral conditions. In addition to its antifungal and antibacterial, aphrodisiac, antiparkinsonian, hypoglycaemic, and anti-venom properties, M. pruriens has potential applications in pharmacological preparations due to its intriguing properties. Further research is needed to fully understand the effects of the antioxidants present in M. pruriens on managing neurobehavioral conditions and their potential to impact on the Central Nervous System.','-','Indla Ravi, Manivannan E., V. Sivasankari and Kothai Ramalingam (2023). Potential Benefits of an Ethanopharmacological Herb: A Systematic Analysis on Velvet Bean (Mucuna pruriens L.). Biological Forum – An International Journal, 15(4): 346-349.'),(6482,'156','Immunomodulatory Potential of Simarouba glauca DC., Leaf and Stem Bark extract, in vivo','N. Navya, K. Sandesh, Rajeshwara N. Achur and N.B. Thippeswamy','Immunomodulatory-Potential-of-Simarouba-glauca-DC.,-Leaf-and-Stem-Bark-extract,-in-vivo-N-Navya-58.pdf','',1,'Natural products are celebrated to primarily modulate the immune system in nonspecific ways. A number of plant-based principles have been acknowledged and isolated with potential immunomodulation activity which validate their use in traditional folklore medicine and can form the base of further specified research. Here, we investigated the immunomodulatory activity of Simarouba glauca DC., leaves and stem bark extract at the doses of 100, 200 and 300 mg/kg body weight in mice followed by the immunostimulatory activity as cyclophosphamide suppressed immune system, phagocytic activity using carbon clear test, T-cell population test and anti-inflammatory activity were carried out. In the carbon clearance test, SGL and SGB extracts exhibited a significantly high phagocytic index indicating the stimulation of reticuloendothelial system. A significant decrease in mean difference, in the foot paw thickness in carrageenan-induced paw edema activity, indicates its anti-inflammatory activity. Both SGL and SGB aqueous extract treated groups at 200 and 300 mg/kg doses showed a significant increase in T-cell population due to raise in T-cell rosette formation. These results confirm the immunomodulatory activity of SGL and SGB aqueous extract, which is a known immunomodulator in indigenous medicine.','Immunomodulators, Simarouba glauca DC., T-cell rosette assay, anti-inflammatory','Overall, the present study affirms that the aqueous extract of Simarouba glauca DC., leaves and stem bark is an effective immunomodulatory agent. The effectiveness of extract‑treated animals in overcoming the side effects of CP-induced immunosuppression provides evidence for the balancing and adaptogenic effectiveness by exhibiting a similar mechanism as that of levamisole in restoring immunosuppression. These results also support the fact that water-soluble components derived from these extracts have an important effect on the immune system and can effectively modulate immunological interactions. Thus, based on this preliminary study, it can be concluded that the SGL and SGB aqueous extracts hold the promise for its use as a novel immunostimulating agent. However, further detailed studies are needed to validate these findings. ','-','N. Navya, K. Sandesh, Rajeshwara N. Achur and N.B. Thippeswamy (2023). Immunomodulatory Potential of Simarouba glauca DC., Leaf and Stem Bark extract, in vivo. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 15(4): 350-357.'),(6483,'156','New Record of Six-spot Ground Beetle Anthia (Anthia) sexguttata sexguttata (Fabricius, 1775) (Coleoptera : Carabidae) from Jehanabad, Bihar (India), with its Systematic Account, Distribution and Beneficial Role','Akhlaq Husain and Wajid Hasan','New-Record-of-Six-spot-Ground-Beetle-Anthia-(Anthia)-sexguttata-sexguttata-(Fabricius,-1775)-(Coleoptera-Carabidae)-from-Jehanabad,-Bihar-(India),-with-its-Systematic-Account-AKHLAQ-HUSAIN-59.pdf','',1,'The present communication deals with the new record of Anthia (Anthia) sexguttata sexguttata, the Six-spot Ground Beetle, belonging to family Carabidae under order Coleoptera, from Jehanabad, Bihar (India). Its adults and larvae feed on agriculture pests mainly on soil which also sometimes ascend to vegetation around in search of their preferred food and hence is considered a beneficial predator, playing a major role in biological control of insect pests. In view of this a detailed account with systematic account, altitudinal range, distribution, habitat, food & feeding, life cycle, beneficial role and self-defence, is provided here.','New record, Anthia (Anthia) sexguttata sexguttata, Jehanabad, Bihar','-','-','Akhlaq Husain and Wajid Hasan (2023). New Record of Six-spot Ground Beetle Anthia (Anthia) sexguttata sexguttata (Fabricius, 1775) (Coleoptera: Carabidae) from Jehanabad, Bihar (India), with its Systematic Account, Distribution and Beneficial Role. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 15(4): 358-362.'),(6484,'156','Knowledge, Attitude and Practice of Hospital Pharmacists towards Pharmacovigilance and Adverse Drug Reaction Reporting in RDT Hospital in Battalapalli','Kommanuru Venkata Ramakrishna Teja, Yiragamreddy Padmanabha Reddy and Nayakanti Devanna','Knowledge,-Attitude-and-Practice-of-Hospital-Pharmacists-towards-Pharmacovigilance-and-Adverse-Drug-Reaction-Reporting-in-RDT-Hospital-in-Battalapalli-Kommanuru-Venkata-Ramakrishna-Teja-60.pdf','',1,'Pharmacovigilance (PV) is essential for evaluating the risk-benefit ratio of medications and promoting their safe, sane, and efficient use, thereby improving patient safety and care. As specialists in drugs, pharmacists are jointly accountable for maintaining the safety of medications. An evaluation of hospital pharmacists\' knowledge, attitudes, and practises regarding reporting adverse drug reactions (ADRs) and pharmacovigilance (PV), as well as the identification of variables that deter hospital pharmacists from reportage ADRs, were the goals of the study carried out at RDT Hospital in Battalapalli, Andhra Pradesh, India. Since they have little knowledge of PV and ADR, it is difficult to educate chemists and patients about them. To collect data, a pre-tested self-administered questionnaire was given to every hospital chemist who agreed to take part in the study. Data were gathered for the study over 26 months, from November 2017 to January 2020, and were then processed with Microsoft Excel 2023. The link between the various variables was investigated using descriptive statistics, frequency/percentage calculations, and Pearson\'s Chi-square test. The survey had 74 pharmacists in total, with Pharm D trainees, who provided answers to different questions in both Telugu and English. The study\'s key conclusion is that 95% of participants were aware of the ADR reportage system\'s existence. According to our study, there is a large discrepancy between adverse events that patients report and those that healthcare professionals (HCP) describe (39.71%). The study found that the participants had a favourable attitude towards reportage adverse drug reactions (ADR) and pharmacovigilance (PV).We deduced from the current study that there is a substantial difference between adverse events reported and those encountered; moreover, while our HCPs have excellent knowledge and attitudes on PV, their practises are subpar. ADR reporting is low among our trained HCPs, even though there is a substantial positive link between PV training and ADR reporting. However, the primary reasons preventing the reporting of ADRs were found as the lack of a professional setting to discuss ADRs and a lack of pharmacotherapy/clinical expertise. Overall, the chemists displayed strong ADR reportage practice and had average to good awareness of and attitudes concerning PV and ADR reportage. The research recommends that the idea of PV and ADR reportage be enhanced even further because there is so much room for development.','Adverse drug reactions reporting, Pharmacovigilance, Pharmacists, Survey','The results of our research showed that the RDT hospital\'s pharmacists had a satisfactory KAP, positive attitudes, and usually sound information, which was apparent in their field of work. Most pharmacists concurred that required reportage will improve drug safety and recognise the significance of PV. The majority also agreed that pharmacists and other HCPs should work together and that HCPs need to receive comprehensive PV training. PV instruction and ADR filing had a strong relationship. The absence of a professional context was considered to be the greatest obstacle stopping pharmacists from recording. According to our research, India\'s current PV initiatives have a tonne of space for improvement.','-','Kommanuru Venkata Ramakrishna Teja, Yiragamreddy Padmanabha Reddy and Nayakanti Devanna (2023). Knowledge, Attitude and Practice of Hospital Pharmacists towards Pharmacovigilance and Adverse Drug Reaction Reporting In RDT Hospital in Battalapalli. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 15(4): 363-368.'),(6485,'156','Gross and Histopathological Lesions in Intestine of Goats Affected with Parasitic Diseases in Eastern Plain Zone of Uttar Pradesh','Rakesh Kumar Gupta, Debasish Niyogi, Krishna Kant Tripathi, Desh Deepak Singh, Amit Singh and Vijendra Kumar Pal ','Gross-and-Histopathological-Lesions-in-Intestine-of-Goats-Affected-with-Parasitic-Diseases-in-Eastern-Plain-Zone-of-Uttar-Pradesh-Rakesh-Kumar-Gupta-61.pdf','',1,'Present study was conducted to explore the gross and histopathological lesions in intestine of goats naturally affected with parasitic infections in eastern plain zone of Uttar Pradesh. The post-mortem examination of dead goats was conducted for any gross lesions in intestine and samples showing lesions suggestive of parasitic infections were collected and preserved in 10% buffer formalin saline solution for histopathological study. Grossly, haemorrhagic and erosive lesions along with sloughed ruminal mucosa and papilla, severe to moderate haemorrhag¬es and thickened mucosal wall, blood mixed faeces or intestinal contents were noticed in the intestine. Microscopically, intestine showed congestion of vessels, haemorrhages, necrosis of intestinal epithelium, blunting of intestinal villi with desquamation of epithelium from mucosal surface. Hyperplasia of goblet cell, necrosis and replacement of glands of Leiberkuhn’s by inflammatory cells mainly mononuclear cells were also noticed. Lesions were more common in jejunum and ileum except in Trichuris infection in which lesion was common in caecum. Affected villi and crypts of intestine also revealed different developmental stages of coccidian oocyst infiltration of mononuclear cells (monocytes and lymphocytes) in cases of coccidiosis.','Pathomorphological changes, goat, parasitic diseases, Eastern Uttar Pradesh','It may be concluded from gross and histopathological study of intestine in goats died due to diarrhoea that major changes occur in small intestine and are characterized by congestion, haemorrhages, necrosis of crypts, desquamation of epithelial cells, blunting of villi with infiltration of inflammatory cells mainly mononuclear cells. Developmental stages are also found in affected tissues in case of coccidiosis. The pathological changes observed in cases of coccidiosis, amphistomiasis, strongyles and Trichuris infections might help in differential diagnosis with other infections viz., salmonellosis, giardiasis, coronavirus infections, tapeworm infections, cryptosporidiosis. In field condition, post-mortem examination provides correct and rapid diagnosis on the basis of characteristics and pathognomic lesions.','-','Rakesh Kumar Gupta, Debasish Niyogi, Krishna Kant Tripathi, Desh Deepak Singh, Amit Singh and Vijendra Kumar Pal (2023). Gross and Histopathological Lesions in Intestine of Goats Affected with Parasitic Diseases in Eastern Plain Zone of Uttar Pradesh. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 15(4): 369-373.'),(6486,'156','Menstruation Hygiene Practices and Prevalence of Poly Cystic Ovarian Syndrome in Young Adult Girls: A Case Study','V.M. Vyshali, K.R. Sumalatha, S. Sushmitha and H. Deeksha','Menstruation-Hygiene-Practices-and-Prevalence-of-Poly-Cystic-Ovarian-Syndrome-in-Young-Adult-Girls-A-Case-Study-K.R.-Sumalatha-62.pdf','',1,'The study was performed to evaluate menstrual practices in young adult girls and the incidence of polycystic ovarian syndrome. Periods, also known as menstruations, are regular vaginal bleeding that take place as part of a woman\'s monthly cycle. The monthly hormonal preparation a woman\'s body goes through for a potential pregnancy is known as the menstrual cycle. In the years between puberty and menopause, regular menstrual cycles are typically a sign that the body is in good health. Periods that are heavy, painful, or irregular are not typical. Premenstrual syndrome (PMS) symptoms are common in females. It includes the most prevalent typical symptoms, such as minor cramps and exhaustion, but these go away once the period starts. Too much or too little bleeding, or the complete lack of a cycle, may indicate that other problems are causing the irregular menstrual cycle. The health of young women is significantly influenced by menstrual hygiene. Menstrual health and hygiene issues practiced by girls and others who menstruate have recently received attention as a significant public health issue, leading to the development of new studies, programmes and the major challenge of the researchers is to lower period deficiencies and confiscate the insistent disgrace associated with menstruation. Henceforth the primary emphasis of this study is adolescent females\' menstruation issues to find the derivation. The main goals of the current study are to determine how aware teenage girls are of menstrual issues, to investigate these issues in girls, and to show how lifestyle choices can negatively affect women\'s menstrual health and increase the prevalence of disorders like polycystic ovarian syndrome (PCOS). ','Menstruation, PCOS, menstrual health, menstrual disorders, menarche','Menstrual health is an essential aspect of overall health and well-being for people who menstruate. Understanding and managing menstrual disorders, such as polycystic ovarian syndrome (PCOS), is crucial to ensuring a healthy menstrual cycle. Menstrual disorders such as dysmenorrhea, irregular periods, and heavy bleeding can significantly impact a person\'s quality of life. It\'s essential to seek medical attention if experiencing any abnormal menstrual symptoms or discomfort. Educating oneself and others about menstrual health and disorders can help reduce the stigma surrounding menstruation and promote healthy menstrual habits. Overall, prioritizing menstrual health is crucial for individuals to live their lives to the fullest potential and manage conditions like PCOS.','-','V.M. Vyshali, K.R. Sumalatha, S. Sushmitha and H. Deeksha (2023). Menstruation Hygiene Practices and Prevalence of Poly Cystic Ovarian Syndrome in Young Adult Girls: A Case Study. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 15(4): 374-378.'),(6487,'156','Influence of Growth Regulators on Canopy Management of Fruit Crops- A Review','Rahul R. Rodge, Rajni Rajan, Madhurima Chaudhuri, Harjinder Kaur and Lakhesing Girase','Influence-of-Growth-Regulators-on-Canopy-Management-of-Fruit-Crops--A-Review-Rahul-R-Rodge-63.pdf','',1,'This review examines the effect of growth regulators on canopy management in fruit crops, focusing on the development and maintenance of their structure in relation to size and shape in order to achieve optimal productivity and fruit quality. Some Plant Growth Regulators (PGRs) are chemical substances that modulate natural hormonal functions to affect plant growth and development. PGRs can be utilized to enhance or decrease the height of plants. Many producers recognize that plant growth retardant is an effective tool for controlling plant development, such as Paclobutrazol helpful in significantly lowering the tree\'s height and canopy volume. Promalin encourages and morphactin hindered vegetative development at numerous sites with reduced canopy surface area. Ethrel was the only plant growth regulator increasing vegetative shoot growth in non-bearing apple trees, as well as the canopy management of guava orchards. Consequently, there is immense scope for improvement in comprehending the effect of growth regulators on the canopy management of different fruit crops. The major challenges in this area is that it is difficult to manage proper length width of canopy through training, pruning and also it require skill labors and proper time management to manage canopy. Here in this review, we explained alternative way in different fruit crop to manage canopy using some new growth promoters and growth inhibitors to manage canopy easily or effectively. ','Canopy, PGRs, growth promoters, inhibitors, fruit, management','This review leads us to the conclusion that some growth regulators and growth inhibitors play an effective role in canopy management, such as the application of Auxin paste to increase the crotch angle width of apples and the application of NAA to reduce shoot growth and control canopy size in high density orchard systems. Different pruning levels and benzyladenine (BA) were significantly efficient in enhancing apple cultivar budwood yield. Red Chief, Early Red One, Gale Gala, and Vance Delicious Significant effects of growth retardants on reduced tree height, canopy size, and spread Paclobutrazol soil and foliar sprays used to high density plantings of sweet cherry, peach, and plum decreased vegetative growth for two to three years. The application of different concentrations of paclobutrazol to \"Lisbon\" lemon trees decreased shoot and internode length while increasing shoot diameter. Also, three weeks later, the soil was sprayed with paclobutrazol at a rate of 1.5 g/m2 and their internodal lengths were significantly shorter. In just one year, the canopy diameters of the treated trees were lowered by 19.33 percent in height and 15.81 percent in width. The size of the canopy was optimised for dense planting. Promalin stimulates the development of side branches in young cherry plants. It is known that morphactins hinder shoot growth and internode elongation. Additionally, ethylene causes the commencement of flower buds and is therefore effective in crop canopy management. Hence, in future there is scope for canopy management using these new growth hormones for better productivity. ','-','Rahul R. Rodge, Rajni Rajan, Madhurima Chaudhuri, Harjinder Kaur and Lakhesing Girase (2023). Influence of Growth Regulators on Canopy Management of Fruit Crops- A Review. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 15(4): 379-384.'),(6488,'156','Phytochemical Analysis and Bioactive Components of a Medicinal Plant Acalypha paniculata Miq.','K. Bhavadharaniparkavi* and P. Abirami','Phytochemical-Analysis-and-Bioactive-Components-of-a-Medicinal-Plant-Acalypha-paniculata-Miq.-K-Bhavadharaniparkavi-64.pdf','',1,'In the current study, ethyl acetate and methanol extracts of Acalypha paniculata were analyzed using Gas Chromatography and Mass Spectrometry (GC-MS) to identify the bioactive components. The preliminary qualitative phytochemical tests for the presence of carbohydrates, flavonoids, alkaloids, tannins, saponins, phenols, fatty acids, gums and mucilage were carried out according to the standard technique. Using Perkin-Elmer Gas Chromatography-Mass Spectra, the chemical contents of the methanolic and ethyl acetate extract of Acalypha paniculata were examined. The result revealed the presence of 7 compounds from ethyl acetate extract and 4 compounds from methanol extract whereas, Ethane, 1,2,2-trichloro-1,1-difluoro, Methane, oxybis[dichloro, Trichloromethane, Nonadecanoic acid, Methane, dichloronitro, L-Gala-L-Ido-octose, Methane, bromodichloro and Methane, oxybis[dichloro (47.214%), 4-amino-3-methoxypyrazolo[3,4-d] pyrimide (22.465%) were major compounds. The compounds identified by GC-MS in ethyl acetate and methanol extract may be medicinally important and possess different pharmaceutical applications. The identified phytocomponents needs further research on toxicological aspects to develop safe drugs.','Acalypha paniculata, Phytochemistry, Secondary metabolites, GC-MS','The GC-MS analysis of Acalypha paniculata determines the number of phytochemicals in their plant extract. Most plant extracts had some biological activities which are used in the field of medicine. These plants were used from ancient times in foods and medicines to treat pimples, stomach aches, kidney problems, hernia, body pain, anaemia and antidote. So that it can be recommended as a plant phytopharmaceutical importance. Further investigations are required to determine the nature and toxicity of substances present in the Acalypha paniculata.','-','K. Bhavadharaniparkavi and P. Abirami (2023). Phytochemical Analysis and Bioactive Components of a Medicinal Plant Acalypha paniculata Miq. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 15(4): 385-392.'),(6489,'156','Scenario of Bacterial Leaf Blight of Rice caused by Xanthomonas oryzae pv. oryzae in Major Rice Growing Regions of Karnataka','Ashwini S., Vidyashankar D., Prashanthi S.K. and Shruthi Mallikarjun Kolur ','Scenario-of-Bacterial-Leaf-Blight-of-Rice-caused-by-Xanthomonas-oryzae-pv.-oryzae-in-Major-Rice-Growing-Regions-of--Karnataka-Ashwini-S-65.pdf','',1,'Bacterial leaf blight (BLB) disease caused by Xanthomonas oryzae pv. oryzae (Xoo) is one of the major biotic constraints in rice production. The disease causes 20–40% yield loss at tillering stage and, overall, 50–80% yield loss in case of severity. So there is a need to understand the current occurrence of bacterial blight on rice in the major rice growing regions in Karnataka in order to develop the necessary management measures to successfully combat the disease. Roving survey was carried out in major rice growing districts of Karnataka viz., Belagavi, Davanagere, Dharwad, Haveri, Koppal, Shivamogga and Uttar Kannada during kharif 2019 to assess the rice bacterial leaf blight severity (BLB). During survey, Belagavi district recorded the highest BLB severity (45.23 %) and lesser severity of 16.86 per cent was recorded in Haveri district. Among the different varieties observed during survey, maximum mean per cent leaf blight severity was recorded in BPT-5204 (54.18%) and least mean per cent leaf blight was recorded in Navali Sali (7.69%). Among the different growth stages of the crop, the maximum bacterial leaf blight severity was noticed during panicle initiation stage (44.98%) and least severity in tillering stage (21.20%). Three biochemical tests (KOH, Starch hydrolysis and methyl red test) were conducted to characterize isolates of Xoo. All the Xoo isolates showed positive reaction to KOH and starch hydrolysis test and negative to methyl red test.','Rice, Bacterial leaf blight, Xanthomonas oryzae pv. oryzae, Per cent disease index (PDI)','An intensive roving survey was carried out in major rice growing districts of Karnataka viz., Belagavi, Davanagere, Dharwad, Haveri, Koppal, Shivamogga and Uttar Kannada during kharif 2019. Belagavi district recorded the highest BLB severity (45.23 %) and least severity of 16.86 per cent was recorded in Haveri district. The maximum mean per cent leaf blight severity was recorded in BPT-5204 (54.18%) and least recorded in Navali Sali (7.69%). The maximum bacterial leaf blight severity was noticed during panicle initiation stage (44.98%) and least in tillering stage (21.20%). Three biochemical tests that were conducted to characterize 21 isolates of Xoo showed positive reaction to KOH test, starch hydrolysis and negative to methyl red test.','-','Ashwini S., Vidyashankar D., Prashanthi S.K. and Shruthi Mallikarjun Kolur (2023). Scenario of Bacterial Leaf Blight of Rice caused by Xanthomonas oryzae pv. oryzae in Major Rice Growing Regions of Karnataka. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 15(4): 393-399.'),(6490,'156','Genetic Parameters, Correlation and Path Analysis for Yield and Yield Contributing Traits in Post Rainy Groundnut (Arachis hypogaea L.)','S.A. Shendekar, M.V. Nagesh Kumar, M.R. Meshram, D.P. Gadpayale, T. Venu Yadav and H.K. Sudini','Genetic-Parameters,-Correlation-and-Path-Analysis-for-Yield-and-Yield-Contributing-Traits-in-Post-Rainy-Groundnut-(Arachis-hypogaea-L.)-SA-Shendekar-66.pdf','',1,'Direct selection for yield is misleading because of complex nature of trait and due to varied influence of environment. Indirect selection through yield contributing traits can greatly enhance efficiency of plant breeding. During post rainy (2019-20), thirty-six elite groundnut genotypes were evaluated in alfa lattice design for different genetic parameters. The observations were recorded on days to 50 % flowering, days to maturity, fresh pod yield per plant, dry pod yield per plant, hundred seed weight and shelling percentage. The analysis of variance revealed significant differences among the selected genotypes for all the traits under study at 0.01 probability levels indicate significant variability among the genotypes evaluated. Dry pod yield per plant and fresh pod yield per plant reported higher GCV and PCV estimates. High heritability coupled with high genetic advance were reported for fresh pod yield per pant, dry pod yield per plant and hundred seed weight. Dry pod yield per plant showed significant and positive connection with fresh pod yield per plant and hundred seed weight and significant negative association with shelling percentage. Path coefficient analysis revealed that traits such as fresh pod yield per plant, shelling percentage and hundred seed weight exhibited high direct effect on dry pod yield per plant indicating true and perfect relationship between them.','Groundnut, variability, heritability, correlation','Direct selection for yield is not possible because yield is complex trait and which were affected by environmental effect in great extent. Yield can be enhanced by indirect selection of traits which are linked to traits. Dry pod yield per plant showed significant and positive association with fresh pod yield per plant and hundred seed weight and significant negative association with shelling percentage. Path coefficient analysis reveal that traits such as fresh pod yield per plant, shelling percentage and hundred seed weight exhibited high direct effect on dry pod yield per plant indicating true and perfect relationship between them.','-','S.A. Shendekar, M.V. Nagesh Kumar, M.R. Meshram, D.P. Gadpayale, T. Venu Yadav and H.K. Sudini (2023). Genetic Parameters, Correlation and Path Analysis for Yield and Yield Contributing Traits in Post Rainy Groundnut (Arachis hypogaea L.). Biological Forum – An International Journal, 15(4): 400-404.'),(6491,'156','Biofertilizers on Improving Bunch and Berry Attributes in Grapes','Kavitha C., T. Vijayalakshmi T., K.A. Shanmugasundaram and I. Muthuvel ','Biofertilizers-on-Improving-Bunch-and-Berry-Attributes-in-Grapes-Kavitha-C-67.pdf','',1,'An experiment was conducted at Coimbatore to study the effect of biofertilizers on the bunch and berry attributes of grapes. The biofertilizers viz., Azotobacter, phosphate solubilizing bacteria (PSB) and potash releasing bacteria (KRB) were applied to the individual vines at three different doses of 100 g, 200 g and 300 g each along with 75% and 100% RDF and control (100% RDF alone). Application of 300 g each of Azotobacter, phosphate solubilizing bacteria, potash releasing bacteria with 100% RDF registered positive impact on the bunch and berry attributes of grape viz., maximum number of bunches (32.05), bunch length (20.72 cm), bunch circumference (33.87 cm), bunch weight (275.81 g), berry length (17.49 mm), berry width (16.64 mm) and berry volume (4.12 cm3). The application of biofertilizers also positively influenced total chlorophyll, total carbohydrate content, nitrate reductase activity, leaf petiole nutrient content, available nutrient and microbial population in the soil.','Azotobacter, PSB, KRB, Grapes, bunch, berry, attributes','The results from the present investigation indicated that application of 300 g each of Azotobacter, phosphate solubilising bacteria and potassium releasing bacteria along with 100% RDF /vine registered better performance for bunch and berry attributes in grapes cv. Muscat Hamburg.','-','Kavitha C., T. Vijayalakshmi T., K.A. Shanmugasundaram and I. Muthuvel (2023). Biofertilizers on Improving Bunch and Berry Attributes in Grapes. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 15(4): 405-410.'),(6492,'150','Assessment of Women Empowerment through Small-scale Dairy Farming: A Study in Kashmir using Structural Equation Modelling','Saima Sadif Paul and Neelofer Khan','Assessment-of-Women-Empowerment-through-Small-scale-Dairy-Farming-A-Study-in-Kashmir-using-Structural-Equation-Modelling-Saima-Sadif-Paul-113.pdf','',1,'Current thinking is that small-scale dairy farming is one of the best ways for rural women to make the most of their scarce resources and acquire the knowledge and abilities that could lead to greater independence and empowerment. Researchers found that while much research has examined the effects of empowering women in business, few have looked explicitly at the dairy industry. The current study aims to quantify rural women\'s empowerment in India\'s Kashmir Region and identify the key success elements that contribute to empowerment. The results from regression analysis (structural equation modelling) show that five factors (Community support scale; family support, creativity, financial access and personality) lead to entrepreneurial success, enhancing empowerment amongst dairy women farmers. This study offers numerous practical and theoretical implications, especially less access to lands, loans and machinery. The current research showed that through small scale dairy farming rural women were able to enhance their confidence and decision-making power besides supporting their family, society as well as to nation in end.','Women empowerment, dairy farming, community support scale, family support, creativity, financial access','According to the study\'s findings, access to capital, women\'s creativity, personality traits, and family and community support are determinants for female dairy entrepreneurs\' success leading to their empowerment. The government could implement some policy measures addressing access to credit by providing small loans to women dairy farmers. Programmes could be conducted in rural communities to explain the benefits of dairy farming and enhance the personality of women through training. Community support centres can be established for women dairy farmers. ','-','Saima Sadif Paul and Neelofer Khan (2023). Assessment of Women Empowerment through Small-scale Dairy Farming: A Study in Kashmir using Structural Equation Modelling. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 15(3): 727-734.'),(6493,'156','Isolation of Anthraquinone from the Roots of North Western Himalayan Medicinal Plant Eremurus himalaicus Baker','Sumaira Rashid, Fahim Bashir, Adil Gani and Bashir Ahmad Ganai','Isolation of Anthraquinone from the Roots of North Western Himalayan Medicinal Plant Eremurus himalaicus Baker-Sumaira Rashid-68.pdf','',1,'Eremurus himalaicus Baker, belonging to the Asphodelaceae family, is one of the least investigated valuable medicinal plant and is widely utilised in conventional and folk remedies as vegetable, for treating anaemia, and inducing lactation in post-partum period. In light of the pervasive use of E. himalaicus in traditional medicine and the paucity of research into its chemical constituents, the purpose of this study was to isolate and identify the characteristic secondary metabolite, anthraquinone. The air-dried underground part of the plant was investigated. Crude extract was obtained by successive hot extraction using Soxhlet apparatus. Using a wide range of chromatographic methods like Silica gel column chromatography and Thin Layer Chromatography, Aloechrysone was isolated from ethyl acetate and methanol fractions of the crude extract and structure elucidation was done by using spectroscopic techniques of NMR/MS. This identified phytoconstituent is the first report from E. himalaicus. Future research should be conducted to bridge the gaps in in vivo and in vitro study of this compound and pave the way for the clinical application of Aloechrysone.','Eremurus himalaicus, Aloechrysone, NMR, MS, Compound isolation','This study is the first report on the isolation of Aloechrysone from the roots of E. himalaicus. Further research may be carried out for isolation of various other secondary metabolites from this under researched medicinal plant. Moreover, in vitro and in vivo studies of this compound can be carried out for establishing its pharmacological properties.','-','Sumaira Rashid, Fahim Bashir, Adil Gani and Bashir Ahmad Ganai (2023). Isolation of Anthraquinone from the Roots of North Western Himalayan Medicinal Plant Eremurus himalaicus Baker. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 15(4): 411-415.'),(6494,'156','Relationship of Dietary Diversity with the Nutritional Status of Female University Students in Kashmir','Sumera and Naila Irshad','Relationship-of-Dietary-Diversity-with-the-Nutritional-Status-of-Female-University-Students-in-Kashmir-Sumera-69.pdf','',1,'Hostellers stay away from home and are free to consume food other than what is being provided by the hostel. Students at present times often tend to eat fast food which is nutritionally inadequate and unhealthy. Thus, there is a need to assess the nutritional status in terms of Dietary Diversity and anthropometric measurements. Certain challenges were faced during the study while collecting data in terms of both primary as well as secondary. Regarding primary data, the respondents owing to their busy schedule showed reluctance towards providing details regarding their dietary intake for which they had to be motivated for a positive attitude. Concerning secondary data, a very less number of research articles in the context of Dietary diversity and anthropometric measurements were available in India in general and Srinagar in particular. The study aimed to assess the Dietary diversity score and its relationship with anthropometric parameters of female day scholars and hostellers enrolled in different Universities in Kashmir. The food intake pattern of the respondents was recorded by 24 hours recall method and nine food groups were used for Dietary Diversity Score (DDS) information. DDS was calculated according to Low DDS (≤3 Food groups), Moderate DDS (4-5 Food groups) and High DDS (≥6 Food groups). The anthropometric parameters assessed during the study were weight, height, waist and hip circumference, Body Mass Index (BMI), Waist to Hip Ratio (WHR) and Waist Height Ratio (WhtR). Using SPSS software the data was subjected to descriptive analysis. The result revealed that 42.9% of day scholars and 44.6% of hostellers with normal weight exhibit medium Dietary Diversity scores. A significant difference was seen in the dietary diversity scores of hostellers concerning their waist-to-height and waist-to-hip ratio. ','Anthropometry, day scholars, WHR, WHtR, IDDS, FVS','The BMI of most of the students was normal however the other parameters of assessing obesity which include waist hip and waist height ratio were exceeding the normal range. A strong association was seen in dietary diversity scores and anthropometric parameters of students, particularly in hostellers. They were found to be at more risk of developing sedentary lifestyle disorders as was evident from their dietary diversity and anthropometric indices. ','-','Sumera and Naila Irshad (2023). Relationship of Dietary Diversity with Nutritional Status of Female University Students in Kashmir. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 15(4): 416-421.'),(6495,'151','Surgical Correction of Congenital Cranial Meningocele in Buffalo Calf','Sonu Jaiswal, Parvej Ahmad, Rakesh Kumar Gupta and Naveen Kumar Singh','Surgical-Correction-of-Congenital-Cranial-Meningocele-in-Buffalo-Calf-Rakesh-Kumar-Gupta-1.pdf','',1,'In present study, a day old male buffalo calf showing the fluctuant swelling on frontal region of the head, weakness and poor suckle reflex was presented to the Veterinary Clinical Complex, College of Veterinary Science, ANDUAT, Kumarganj, Ayodhya. Fluctuant mass was approximate 20×18 cm in size covering with hairy skin. On the clinical examination, calf exhibited resistance to deep palpation. The case was diagnosed as congenital cranial meningocele on basis of clinical and radiographic results. Since there was intracranial pressure on brain tissue, therefore, the case was corrected surgically under local infiltration anesthesia with the permission of owner After 10 days of treatment, the calf showed uneventful recovery.','Buffalo calf, Congenital, Cranial Meningocele, Meningoencephalocele','It may be concluded from our study that factors causing congenital anomalies cannot be diagnosed easily as they are high in number such as malnutrition, exposed diseases, applied medicines and growing conditions. The presented case classified as congenital meningocele as anatomically. The swelling did not re-occur in due time suggesting that defect might have closed during growth of calf. Congenital defects like meningocele, if treated early may save the life of animal as in our case.','-','-'),(6496,'156','Evaluation of Different Management Practices against Alternaria Leaf Blight Disease of French Bean (Phaseolus vulgaris L.) caused by Alternaria alternata','Shivanand Hongal, Nagesh, Gurumurthy S.B., H.P. Maheswarappa, Sudheesh Kulkarni, Abdul K.M., Sowjanya T.V., Divya S. Bhat and Rahul Phatak ','Evaluation-of-Different-Management-Practices-against-Alternaria-Leaf-Blight-Disease-of-French-Bean-(Phaseolus-vulgaris-L.)-caused-by-Alternaria-alternata-Nagesh-70.pdf','',1,'French bean (Phaseolous vulgaris L.) is a substantial food crop utilized as a pulse and green vegetable crop, belongs to family Fabaceae. Alternaria leaf blight disease is one among the major constraints of crop production incited by Alternaria alternate resulting into significant yield loss as well as in quality of pods. In this context, Experiments was laid out in randomized block design with five replications for three consecutive years during 2019-2022. Evaluated different treatment of farming systems such as natural farming, organic farming, chemical farming and recommended package of practices (UHS, Bagalkot) for their bio efficacy to combat the disease. A pooled severity of three years analyzed, among the management practices, chemical farming comprises mancozeb 75% WP@2gm/lit. was found effective in managing the disease (3.45% PDI) and showed consistent trend for all three years of experimental period which is followed by recommended package of practice comprises propiconazole 25%EC @1ml/l (6.26% PDI), organic farming comprises of talk-based Trichoderma harzianum 10g/lit (7.22% PDI). Natural farming comprises sour butter milk (5lit. per 200 lit. of water) found least effective to combat disease and recorded maximum disease severity (12.22% PDI) at 45DAS. Although chemical farming can effectively control the disease but it will lead to serious risk on human health and environmental hazards. Therefore, organic and natural farming are an alternative approach that are eco-friendly and economically viable against Alternaria leaf blight disease management. ','French bean, Natural farming, Chemical farming, Alternaria, Trichoderma','Among the evaluated management practice, spraying of Propiconazole 25%EC @1ml/l which is followed by Mancozeb 75%WP @2gm/lit. found effective because of specific mode of action by combi/solo fungicides. Foliar application of Tichoderma harzianum @10gm/lit. is an ecofriendly and alternative approach to combat disease. Foliar application of sour butter milk found least effective against disease. ','-','Shivanand Hongal, Nagesh, Gurumurthy S.B., H.P. Maheswarappa, Sudheesh Kulkarni, Abdul K.M., Sowjanya T.V., Divya S. Bhat and Rahul Phatak (2023). Evaluation of Different Management Practices against Alternaria Leaf Blight Disease of French Bean (Phaseolus vulgaris L.) caused by Alternaria alternata. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 15(4): 422-426.'),(6497,'156','Potential of Rhizobium to Promote Plant Growth for the Development of Albizia procera Seedling','Arti Ghabru, Neerja Rana and Meenakshi','Potential-of-Rhizobium-to-Promote-Plant-Growth-for-the-Development-of-Albizia-procera-Seedling-Arti-Ghabru-71.pdf','',1,'Nitrogen and organic matter content in forest soils have decreased as a result of intensive harvesting of forest resources. One of the essential components for the growth and development of plants is nitrogen. Nitrogen is a growth-limiting nutrient in terrestrial and aquatic ecosystems despite its abundance in the atmosphere because, with the exception of nitrogen-fixing bacteria, it is inert and worthless in its gaseous state. Numerous tree species have been investigated to determine how inorganic fertilizers affect the girth, height, and biomass increment of forest tree species. However, the rising costs and unbalanced usage of these chemical fertilizers have an adverse effect on the environment. Species of trees that fix atmospheric nitrogen through their root nodules have been considered over time because of this potential. There is evidence that nodulating plants can improve soil fertility. An affordable and practical way to lessen the need for nitrogen fertilizers and restore damaged ecosystems is through biological nitrogen fixation. Forests are essential for any country\'s ecological stability and economic growth. Research on the population structure of forest trees under various environmental conditions have shown that genetic and physiographic variances are related to seed location or source. The economical and environmentally beneficial method of biological nitrogen fixation (BNF) involves leguminous plants and nitrogen-fixing microorganisms working together to increase soil nitrogen availability. Since ancient times, symbiotic bacteria found in legumes have been known to improve the soil\'s nutrient content. In the Microbiology Laboratory of the Department of Basic Sciences, the current study is based on \"Improvement of Albizia procera Seedling utilising Rhizobium Inoculation\", was carried out. Out of ten seed sources, the study found that the Baddi seed source in Himachal Pradesh and the FRI, Dehradun seed in Uttarakhand were the best. The Albizia procera nodules yielded a total of 66 isolates, including 28 from Uttarakhand and 38 from Himachal Pradesh. Rhizobium spp. has been identified in 35 of 66 isolates. The shoot biomass, root biomass, and nodulation status considerably increased over the uninoculated control after the two isolates, BA2 and FA6, were chosen and used as biofertilizer.','Albizia procera, Leghaemoglobin, seedling parameters, Nitrogen fixation potential, nodulation, biofertilizers, rhizobium, plant growth parameters','It is important to use different seed pre-treatments and locations to produce quality seedlings with the lowest costs and labor. For tree improvement programs quality seed source play important role. The application of rhizobial isolates BA2+ and FA6+, along with eco-friendly methods for producing quality seedlings of Albizia procera, is advised based on the aforementioned study. These methods could significantly reduce the dependence on chemical fertilizers and play a significant role in afforestation cultural practices and programmes.','-','Arti Ghabru, Neerja Rana and Meenakshi (2023). Potential of Rhizobium to Promote Plant Growth for the Development of Albizia procera Seedling. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 15(4): 427-433.'),(6498,'156','A Study of Knowledge, Attitude and Practices Associated to Brucellosis among Cattle Keepers of Jalaun district, Uttar Pradesh, India','Rashmi Singh, Deeksha Marwari and Akanksha Singh','A-Study-of-Knowledge,-Attitude-and-Practices-Associated-to-Brucellosis-among-Cattle-Keepers-of-Jalaun-district,-Uttar-Pradesh,-India-Rashmi-Singh-72.pdf','',4,'The magnitude and ubiquitous nature of brucellosis occurrences in cattle throughout the India remains to be animal and public health concern. In humans, the disease is mainly transmitted through the ingestion of raw/unpasteurized milk or unhygienic practices during handling their cattles. India has the greatest cattle population in the world; consequently, the risk of brucellosis incidences grows exponentially in India compared to other nations. In addition, the knowledge of brucellosis among cattle keepers is limited; therefore, comprehending the knowledge, attitudes, and practises (KAP) of cattle keepers is a primary objective of the present study. A cross-sectional study was performed on brucellosis in Jalaun districts of Uttar Pradesh. Cattle keepers (n=500) were interviewed on the basis of a standard structured questionnaire (41 questions). It was found that the farmer\'s educational status was strongly correlated with their knowledge of the zoonotic risk of brucellosis (p<0.001). More than 60% of the participants did not consider unpasteurized milk as possible contamination sources. The current investigation showed that cattle keepers had limited education of brucellosis, which might enhance the zoonotic risk. Awareness has to be encouraged, and significant control measures should prioritize in rural and underdeveloped sections of the country to prevent the spread of the disease from animals to humans.','Brucellosis, KAP, Zoonosis, SPSS, Vaccination','The persistent presence of B. abortus infection in cattle, in combination with religious concerns regarding the slaughter of infected animals and the resulting distressful sale of such animals, has led to positive serological diagnoses. This has created a critical need for the strict implementation of a control policy in cattle, prompting government authorities to adopt a vaccination strategy as a means of preventing and controlling brucellosis in cattle. The implementation of preventive measures during the handling of infected cattle can lead to a significant reduction in the incidence of brucellosis in humans. Despite the significant accomplishments in eradicating bovine brucellosis in various countries such as Europe, Australia, Canada, Israel, Japan, and New Zealand, the disease continues to prevail in certain areas of Africa, the Middle East, and Asia owing to inadequate awareness, governance, and financial resources. The principal strategies employed to manage and avert brucellosis comprise of the identification and segregation or culling of infected cattle, as well as administering a one-time vaccination to all eligible female calves.','-','Rashmi Singh, Deeksha Marwari and Akanksha Singh (2023). A Study of Knowledge, Attitude and Practices Associated to Brucellosis among Cattle Keepers of Jalaun district, Uttar Pradesh, India. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 15(4): 434-439.'),(6499,'156','A Study of Knowledge, Attitude and Practices Associated to Brucellosis among Cattle Keepers of Jalaun district, Uttar Pradesh, India','Rashmi Singh, Deeksha Marwari and Akanksha Singh','A-Study-of-Knowledge,-Attitude-and-Practices-Associated-to-Brucellosis-among-Cattle-Keepers-of-Jalaun-district,-Uttar-Pradesh,-India-Rashmi-Singh-72.pdf','',1,'The magnitude and ubiquitous nature of brucellosis occurrences in cattle throughout the India remains to be animal and public health concern. In humans, the disease is mainly transmitted through the ingestion of raw/unpasteurized milk or unhygienic practices during handling their cattles. India has the greatest cattle population in the world; consequently, the risk of brucellosis incidences grows exponentially in India compared to other nations. In addition, the knowledge of brucellosis among cattle keepers is limited; therefore, comprehending the knowledge, attitudes, and practises (KAP) of cattle keepers is a primary objective of the present study. A cross-sectional study was performed on brucellosis in Jalaun districts of Uttar Pradesh. Cattle keepers (n=500) were interviewed on the basis of a standard structured questionnaire (41 questions). It was found that the farmer\'s educational status was strongly correlated with their knowledge of the zoonotic risk of brucellosis (p<0.001). More than 60% of the participants did not consider unpasteurized milk as possible contamination sources. The current investigation showed that cattle keepers had limited education of brucellosis, which might enhance the zoonotic risk. Awareness has to be encouraged, and significant control measures should prioritize in rural and underdeveloped sections of the country to prevent the spread of the disease from animals to humans.','Brucellosis, KAP, Zoonosis, SPSS, Vaccination','The persistent presence of B. abortus infection in cattle, in combination with religious concerns regarding the slaughter of infected animals and the resulting distressful sale of such animals, has led to positive serological diagnoses. This has created a critical need for the strict implementation of a control policy in cattle, prompting government authorities to adopt a vaccination strategy as a means of preventing and controlling brucellosis in cattle. The implementation of preventive measures during the handling of infected cattle can lead to a significant reduction in the incidence of brucellosis in humans. Despite the significant accomplishments in eradicating bovine brucellosis in various countries such as Europe, Australia, Canada, Israel, Japan, and New Zealand, the disease continues to prevail in certain areas of Africa, the Middle East, and Asia owing to inadequate awareness, governance, and financial resources. The principal strategies employed to manage and avert brucellosis comprise of the identification and segregation or culling of infected cattle, as well as administering a one-time vaccination to all eligible female calves.','-','Rashmi Singh, Deeksha Marwari and Akanksha Singh (2023). A Study of Knowledge, Attitude and Practices Associated to Brucellosis among Cattle Keepers of Jalaun district, Uttar Pradesh, India. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 15(4): 434-439.'),(6500,'156','Varietal Reaction of Momordica charantia Germplasm to Viruses Infecting Bitter Gourd','Ankitha M.O., Bindu M.R., Radhika N.S., Anand S. and Bhaskar Reddy S.','Varietal-Reaction-of-Momordica-charantia-Germplasm-to-Viruses-Infecting-Bitter-Gourd-Ankitha-MO-73.pdf','',1,'Diseases caused by viruses are among the most limiting factors for bitter gourd (Momordica charantia L.) production in India, which can reach up to 100% crop loss. Severe outbreaks of viral diseases can occur when there is a suitable environment for both the virus and its vector, combined with a lack of awareness about the diseases. The present study was conducted to screen out available bitter gourd germplasm against mosaic viruses. Reactions of 33 bitter gourd accessions belonging to Momordica charantia var. charantia and Momordica charantia var. muricata were studied by artificial inoculation with three viruses namely, Cucumber Mosaic Virus (CMV), Tomato Leaf Curl New Delhi Virus (ToLCNDV) and Papaya Ring Spot Virus (PRSV). All the genotypes exhibited varying degrees of reaction against viral infection when categorized on 0-5 scale. The average Percentage Disease Severity (PDS) estimates ranged from 0.00 to 86.67. Out of the 33 genotypes, 3 were resistant, which went on asymptomatic all through the experiment. Four genotypes were resistant, five were moderately resistant, six were moderately susceptible, 10 were susceptible and five were highly susceptible. The resistant genotypes identified are promising candidates for crop improvement programmes to develop mosaic resistant cultivars in bitter gourd.','Bitter gourd, Momordica charantia, resistance, Mosaic, Per cent Disease Severity','The current study was conducted to identify bitter gourd genotypes that are resistant to three viruses namely Cucumber Mosaic Virus (CMV), Papaya Ringspot Virus (PRSV) and Tomato Leaf Curl New Delhi Virus (ToLCNDV). Reaction of genotypes to viruses differed among the 33 genotypes and based on the disease reaction they were classified into six categories. Three highly resistant genotypes ie., Lodhi local, Udayagiri local and Therthali local were identified from the experiment. Presence of these viruses in the resistant genotypes was confirmed using DAS-ELISA.','-','Ankitha M.O., Bindu M.R., Radhika N.S., Anand S. and Bhaskar Reddy S. (2023). Varietal Reaction of Momordica charantia Germplasm to Viruses Infecting Bitter Gourd. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 15(4): 440-445.'),(6501,'156','Economics of a Wheel Operated Boom Sprayer for Small Holding Farmers','Obaid Zaffar and Sanjay Khar','Economics-of-a-Wheel-Operated-Boom-Sprayer-for-Small-Holding-Farmers-Obaid-Zaffar-74.pdf','',1,'Pesticides have substantially aided in the development of agricultural yields by controlling pests and diseases and these pesticides are either sprayed using knapsack sprayer or tractor operated boom sprayers. The knapsack sprayer has very low field capacity and tractor operated sprayer are costly. The present study was conducted to carry out the economic analysis of a wheel operated boom which was developed at Division of Farm Machinery and Power Engineering, Sher-e-Kashmir University of Agricultural Sciences Technology of Jammu. The fabrication cost of the developed sprayer was about `5600 including the of cost of booms, nozzles and other required accessories. In general, the operation cost of wheel operated boom sprayer was about 55 `/h. The operational cost in terms of per hectare of working were 195, 146 and 109 `/ha with attachment boom carrying two, three and four nozzles’ respectively. In comparison to the conventional spraying the wheel operated boom sprayer results in the time saving of 53.7, 66.25 and 74.0 % with the use of boom carrying two, three and four nozzles respectively. The study concluded that a wheel operated boom sprayer was economically feasible and also results in saving of time and reduces drudgery in comparison to the conventional knapsack sprayer.','Sprayer, operational cost, nozzle, straight line method','The fabrication cost of the wheel operated boom sprayer was estimated to be `5600 including the cost the boom and the nozzles. In all three types of booms the field capacity obtained was greater than the field capacity (0.125 ha/h) by conventional knapsack sprayer which resulted in 53.7, 66.25 and 74.0 % saving of time using the boom with two, three and four nozzles respectively. The operating cost (`/ha) of wheel operated boom sprayer obtained was only `194.6, 145.9 and 109.4/ha which is very low in comparison to the traditional spraying method adopted by the marginal and small farmers. Thus, the development wheel operated boom sprayer serves the purpose in terms of economic feasibility and also results in saving of time and reduces drudgery in comparison to the conventional knapsack sprayer.','-','Obaid Zaffar and Sanjay Khar (2023). Economics of a Wheel Operated Boom Sprayer for Small Holding Farmers. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 15(4): 446-449.'),(6502,'156','Formulation Development and Evaluation of Taste-masked Moxifloxacin granules for the Treatment of Pediatric Tuberculosis','Shyamkant Sahdeorao Nevle and Santosh Ramrao Butle','Formulation-Development-and-Evaluation-of-Taste-masked-Moxifloxacin-granules-for-the-Treatment-of-Pediatric-Tuberculosis-Shyamkant Sahdeorao Nevle-75.pdf','',1,'Fluoroquinolone antibiotic moxifloxacin (MOX) is a second-line therapy for multidrug-resistant tuberculosis (MDR TB) and drug-susceptible TB. Low patient compliance with MOX is caused by taste and odour issues, particularly in the paediatric population. By utilising mannitol, aspartame as a sweetener, and lemon flavour as a flavouring agent, wet granulation was used to create MOX taste-masked granules. One of the major challenges was to get the free-flowing granules so the wet granulation technique was used and desired flow properties were achieved. The flow characteristics and in vitro drug release of the produced granules were assessed. FTIR, DSC, and XRD instrumental analyses were also carried out. Based on the results, it was determined that the flow qualities of the granules from batch F6 were outstanding. The optimised batch demonstrated full medication release in about 10 minutes. In the FTIR and DSC studies, no incompatibility between the drug excipients was observed. According to XRD, the MOX in the final formulation was present in crystalline form. MOX taste-masked granules would be a superior alternative for treating paediatric TB.','Tuberculosis, moxifloxacin, dispersible tablets, taste mask, disintegration','The present study concludes that the taste-masked granules of the MOX can be successfully developed by using the wet granulation technique by incorporating sugars and flavouring agents. The optimised granules showed excellent flow properties and can be easily filled in suitable packaging material. The optimised batch showed complete drug release within 10 min period. FTIR and DSC studies revealed no drug excipient incompatibility. XRD demonstrated that the MOX in the final formulation was present in crystalline form. The taste-masked granules of the MOX could be a potential alternative for the treatment of pediatric TB.','-','Shyamkant Sahdeorao Nevle and Santosh Ramrao Butle (2023). Formulation Development and Evaluation of Taste-masked Moxifloxacin granules for the Treatment of Pediatric Tuberculosis. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 15(4): 450-455.'),(6503,'156','Sustainable Mechanical Solution (Cotton Stalk Shredder Cum Uprooter) to Control Pink Bollworm','Srinidhi G., Sushilendra, Sunil Shirwal and Vijayakumar Palled','Sustainable-Mechanical-Solution-(Cotton-Stalk-Shredder-Cum-Uprooter)-to-Control-Pink-Bollworm-Srinidhi-G-76.pdf','',1,'Cotton is one of the most important economic crop in India. About 124.4 Mha was cultivated in 2018–2019, with total production of 370 lakhs bales. The pink bollworm is one of the most vicious pests of the cotton crop. Physical, chemical and biological techniques can be used to control it. This bollworm cotton worst enemy, by which yield and quality of cotton fiber will be affect. The chemical application does not kill the bollworm pest due to hidden in cotton bolls. Hence the chemical treatment does not control the bollworm effectively. Challenging task to control the pink bollworm in cotton field, i.e., sustainable mechanical solution was considered for the study. Cotton stalk shredder cum uprooter will shred the cotton stalk/ boll into tiny pieces by which oviposition site of bollworm destroyed and uprooter will uproot the cotton stubbles which are erected. 80 % of green boll are destroyed by the cotton stalk shredder and 76 % of larvae were killed. Cotton stalk shredder is very effective in decreasing the larval population present in the field after harvesting. It’s found has best sustainable solution for controlling pink boll worm.','Cotton stalk shredder, pink bollworm, and uprooter','Cotton stalk shredder cum uprooter is used by the farmer for shredding and uprooting the cotton stalk and stubble left after in the field. Pink bollworm is major threat pest in left in the field after harvesting operation. This egg and larvae present in the unopened green boll will grown and causes effect to next season cotton crop. Cotton stalk shredder cum uprooter will shred the green boll and stalk in small pieces. 80 % of green boll are destroyed by the cotton stalk shredder and 76 % of larvae were killed. Cotton stalk shredder is very effective in decreasing the larval population present in the field after harvesting. It’s found has best sustainable solution for controlling pink boll worm.','-','Srinidhi G., Sushilendra, Sunil Shirwal and Vijayakumar Palled (2023). Sustainable Mechanical Solution (Cotton Stalk Shredder Cum '),(6504,'156','Constraints Faced by the Postgraduate Scholars in Achieving Employment','Jitendra Kumar, F.L. Sharma, S.S. Sisodia, B. Upadhyay, K.D. Ameta and Jagdish Choudhary ','Constraints-Faced-by-the-Postgraduate-Scholars-in-Achieving-Employment-Jitendra-Kumar-77.pdf','',1,'A person\'s employability goes beyond his or her academic and vocational skills. Among the factors that make people employable are their knowledge and skills relating to a particular job, their ability to identify suitable job openings, their self-presentation on resumes and in interviews, and external factors such as the job market and their own personal circumstances. In this competitive technology-driven world, agricultural graduates and postgraduates should be equipped with marketable skills and professional abilities. The study was carried out by selecting a random sample of 180 postgraduate scholars studying in first and second-year M.Sc. (Agri.) at Agriculture Universities in Rajasthan. The study indicated that ‘‘Lack of expected level of realization to develop employability among the scholars by the teachers’’, ‘‘Less number of computers and internet facilities in the campus’’ and ‘‘Higher agricultural education is more theoretical and less practical oriented’’ were regarded as the most significant constraints to achieving more employment in this study area by postgraduate scholars. ','Agriculture, Constraints, Employment, Postgraduate scholar','The present study was examining constraints faced by the postgraduate scholars in achieving employment. It was found that ‘‘Lack of expected level of realization to develop employability among the scholars by the teachers’’ (97.10 MPS) was perceived as most important constraint by the postgraduate scholars and ranked first The next important constraints reported by the postgraduate scholars were ‘‘Less number of computers and internet facilities in the campus’’ and ‘‘Higher agricultural education is more theoretical and less practical oriented’’ with the extent of 96.84 and 95.29 MPS and which were ranked second and third, respectively. Thus, it can be concluded that the reason for facing problems with might be due to the majority of the postgraduate scholars not having the high knowledge and skills about computer and ICT tools. The experts are not available in the colleges for training to the students. It was also realized that on campus interviews are not conducted by any employability agencies.','-','Jitendra Kumar, F.L. Sharma, S.S. Sisodia, B. Upadhyay, K.D. Ameta and Jagdish Choudhary (2023). Constraints Faced by the Postgraduate Scholars in Achieving Employment. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 15(4): 459-462.'),(6505,'156','Occurrence and Applications of Fungal Laccases: A Comprehensive Biotechnological Review','Hansika Wadhwa, Reena Singh and Chirag Chopra','Occurrence-and-Applications-of-Fungal-Laccases-A-Comprehensive-Biotechnological-Review-Chirag-Chopra-78.pdf','',1,'Laccases are enzymes that are typically excreted into the surrounding medium by filamentous fungi as part of their secondary metabolism. The production of laccases can be affected by various factors such as cultivation method, carbon availability, nitrogen source, and the concentration of microelements. The following sections of the paper will detail the impact that these different process parameters can have on laccase production. Fungal laccases are enzymes that belong to the oxidoreductase class of enzymes, which have a wide range of applications in various industries. Laccases are now being used more frequently in the food industry as a means of creating affordable and nutritious foods. However, to continue this trend, it is important to establish widespread access to laccase and improve production systems. The presence of laccase has been identified in multiple types of fungi, which suggests that it is possible for many fungi to produce laccase. To make laccases more accessible for industrial usage, cost-effective methods have been devised such as refining fermentation media, creating new fermentation techniques, and genetically modifying eukaryotic recombinant strains to produce laccases on a large scale. The low yield, heterogeneity, cost, and difficulties in extraction of fungal laccases are some of the hurdles in this area of research. This review paper provides a comprehensive overview of the sources, occurrence, and applications of fungal laccases. It highlights the potential of these enzymes for various industrial, medical, and environmental applications and provides insights into the future direction of laccase research.','Enzymes, Sources, Laccases; Fungus, Applications','The review paper provides an in-depth analysis of fungal laccases and their biotechnological applications. The paper discusses the various sources of fungal laccases, their properties, and their potential applications in various industries such as bioremediation, pulp and paper, textile, food, and pharmaceuticals. The paper highlights the importance of fungal laccases in bioremediation, where they can degrade and detoxify various pollutants such as PAHs, pesticides, and dyes. Fungal laccases also have applications in the pulp and paper industry, where they can improve the quality of paper products by improving the delignification process, brightness, and strength. Moreover, fungal laccases can be used in the textile industry for bleaching and dyeing fabrics, and for removing excess dye from wastewater. They also have potential applications in the food industry to improve the shelf life of food products and enhance the aroma and flavor of wine and beer products. Finally, the paper discusses the potential applications of fungal laccases in the pharmaceutical industry, where they can be used for the synthesis of pharmaceutical compounds and the detection of pharmaceuticals in environmental samples.','-','Hansika Wadhwa, Reena Singh and Chirag Chopra (2023). Occurrence and Applications of Fungal Laccases: A Comprehensive Biotechnological Review. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 15(4): 463-469.'),(6506,'156','Assessment of Avifaunal Species Composition and Diversity of Bhimer Gali of District Rajouri J&K Union Territory','Arif S.A., Singh S. and Bhat S.A.','Assessment-of-Avifaunal-Species-Composition-and-Diversity-of-Bhimer-Gali-of-District-Rajouri-J&K-Union-Territory-Arif SA-79.pdf','',1,'Birds are of immense ecological importance as bio-indicators for the quality of environment and habitat structure. They are very sensitive to any slight changes occurring in the ecosystem. Lot of challenges needed to overcome for the conservation of species, habitat loss due to urbanisation is the major challenge for the conservation Random field survey was conducted by following line transect and point count method in early morning and evening of the day. Photograph and direct sighting were used for identification of bird species by using field guide books and field expert. The present study was undertaken from October 2020 to December 2021. Overall, 92 species of birds belonging to total 47 families including IUCN status small birds, resident birds and migratory birds were reported in the study area.','Avifaunal diversity, species, Rajouri, Union Territory, Composition, Bio-Indicator','The study revealed that the study area is suitable for various bird species mostly resident, migratory, least concerned, and endemic species, the area provides heterogeneous habitat for the conservation of bird species, since the study was carried out during day time only and there might be nocturnal bird species.','-','Arif S.A., Singh S. and Bhat S.A. (2023). Assessment of Avifaunal Species Composition and Diversity of Bhimer Gali of District Rajouri J&K Union Territory. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 15(4): 470-474.'),(6507,'156','Degradation of Keratin by Keratinase Enzyme Producing Bacillus zhangzhouensis using Insilico Protocols','Rajee T. and Selvamaleeswaran P.','Degradation-of-Keratin-by-Keratinase-Enzyme-Producing-Bacillus-zhangzhouensis-using-Insilico-Protocols-Rajee-T-80.pdf','',4,'The management of keratinous waste generated from different industries is becoming a major challenge across the world, especially in poultry farming. Therefore, there is a need for modern and eco-friendly approaches to disposing of waste products. Due to the environmental challenges of poultry farming, it is necessary to isolate microbial keratinase enzymes with high catalytic functions and identify its mechanisms. Therefore, in the present study, our goal was to identify the potential of keratinase producing isolates that degrade feathers containing keratin through docking studies. The protein structure was predicted using the 16srRNA gene sequence of Bacillus zhangzhouensis, and the keratin structure was also predicted with the Insilico method. Then, protein-protein docking studies are performed using an automated protein docking server and their 3D molecular binding interactions are discussed in detail. The overall results clearly show that the amino acids of the enzyme, keratinase efficiently bind at the active sites (motifs) of keratin. Despite these challenges, keratinase enzymes have been successfully used to reduce the levels of keratin in soil, making them a viable option for remediating the environment.','16sr RNA sequence, Bacillus zhangzhouensis, Keratin, Protein –Protein Docking','Keratin is abundantly found in nature, and the volume of keratin-rich waste keeps increasing each year. Keratinase plays an important role in the recycling of keratin and is hence used in different fields. Our protein-protein docking studies revealed that the keratinase enzyme of Bacillus zhangzhouensis binds well with the feather keratin protein of chicken and aids in the breakdown of disulfide bonds present in keratin. These Insilico results provide evidence that the enzyme of the bacterial sps is eligible for the degradation of keratin.','-','Rajee T. and Selvamaleeswaran P. (2023). Degradation of Keratin by Keratinase Enzyme Producing Bacillus zhangzhouensis using Insilico Protocols. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 15(4): 475-484.'),(6508,'156','Rp HPLC Method Development for Pazopanib in mixture and tablet Form','Godge R. K. and Ghorpade R. S.','Rp-HPLC-Method-Development-for-Pazopanib-in-mixture-and-tablet-Form-Godge-RK-80.pdf','',1,'Analytical method development involves screening various column and eluent conditions, method optimization includes iterative testing of various separation conditions of the HPLC method and is performed to achieve the best possible resolution, speed, and reproducibility, robustness testing and method validation. Pazopanib is a class of drugs called kinase inhibitors with potent antineoplastic effects and is used in the treatment of kidney and soft tissue sarcomas. This work includes the development of a simple, accurate, precise and reproducible liquid chromatography (RP HPLC) method for the determination of pazopanib in tablet dosage. Isocratic elution was performed at a flow rate of 1.0 mL/min on a Kromasil C18 column (250 mm × 4.6 mm, 5 μm) at 25 °C. The mobile phase was methanol: 0.025% TFA in water (60:40) v/v. The UV detection wavelength is 273 nm and the injection volume is 20 µL. Pazopanib has a retention time of approximately 2.83 minutes. According to ICH guidelines, the process has been validated for various parameters such as suitability, efficiency, recovery and robustness. The validated RP HPLC method is specific, precise, and accurate, and has been successfully used to identify pazopanib and its commercial samples.','HPLC, pazopanib, ICH guideline, method development, validation','The study described a new RP HPLC method that uses a simple phase to quantitatively measure pazopanib content compared to the reported. The method provides good resolution of both compounds with a short measurement time (<10 minutes). The method is simple, precise, accurate and straightforward. Recovery data showed that the method was not affected by the excipients used in the formulation. Therefore, this method can be used for routine analysis of pazopanib in dosage form.','-','Godge R. K. and Ghorpade R. S. (2023). Rp HPLC Method Development for Pazopanib in mixture and tablet Form. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 15(4): 475-478.'),(6509,'156','Study of Genetic Diversity and Relationships between Agronomic Traits in Large Safflower (Carthamus tinctorius L.) Germplasm Collection','Usha Kiran B., Dinesh Kumar V. and Uma A.','Study-of-Genetic-Diversity-and-Relationships-between-Agronomic-Traits-in-Large-Safflower-(Carthamus-tinctorius-L.)-Germplasm-Collection-Usha-Kiran-B-81.pdf','',1,'Safflower (Carthamus tinctorius L.), a member of the family Compositae, is a multi-purpose crop for oil, medicative and industrial uses. Despite its importance, safflower production and productivity are constrained by the low yielding varieties, poor cultural conditions and susceptible to biotic and abiotic stresses. The objective of the present study is to establish the level of genetic diversity of 315 germplasm accessions of safflower for major agronomic traits from 21 countries along with 5 released varieties. The data was recorded for 9 agronomic traits for two seasons. Analysis of variance revealed highly significant differences for the quantitative traits measured indicating the existence of wide genetic variation among the accessions. The accessions clustered into seven groups and there was no clear grouping of accessions according to their geographical origin probably due to gene flow. Correlation studies revealed thatnumber of branches per plant (r=0.29**), number of capitula per plant (0.51**), number of seeds per capitula (0.35*), 100-seed weight (0.10*) and hull content (0.19*) are significantly positive correlated with seed yield per plant. The results indicated a large genetic diversity among the accessions evaluated and the correlation studies established that wide diversity in the crop and it is possible to increase the seed yield and oil content. The promising germplasm accessions identified could be useful in future safflower breeding programs.','Safflower, Genetic diversity, Agronomic traits, Correlation','A comprehensive diversity analysis for nine agronomic traits was taken up with 315 safflower germplasm accessions representing 21 countries. Our results showed significant diversity among the genotypes for most of the agronomic traits studied. The findings suggest that the economic traits can be efficiently improved by exercising appropriate recombination breeding approaches and selection procedures in this important oilseed crop. Cluster analysis based on ward minimum variance grouped the germplasm into seven distinct groups, with geographical origin of the germplasm not having any bearing on the categorization. Promising germplasm accessions identified for the traits can be exploited in future breeding programs for increase of seed oil yield.','-','Usha Kiran B., Dinesh Kumar V. and Uma A. (2023). Study of Genetic Diversity and Relationships between Agronomic Traits in Large Safflower (Carthamus tinctorius L.) Germplasm Collection. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 15(4): 479-486.'),(6510,'156','Determination of Toxicity of various Groups of Insecticides Against Different Larval Stages of Lemon Butterfly, Papilio demoleus (Linn.)','Yogendra Pal Singh and Ramakant','Determination-of-Toxicity-of-various-Groups-of-Insecticides-Against-Different-Larval-Stages-of-Lemon-Butterfly,-Papilio-demoleus-(Linn.)-Yogendra-Pal-Singh-82.pdf','',1,'The relative toxicity of three groups of insecticides, synthetic pyrethroids, organochlorin and organophosphate, against the 1st, 3rd and 5th instar caterpillars of P. demoleus (Linn), a serious pest on citrus plants were studied. The lethal concentrations (LC50) were worked out by dry film method using Aceton AR as solvent. Synthetic pyrethroids gave much lower LC50 values as compared to Organophosphate and Organochlorine groups of insecticides. In present study Deltamethrin proved the most toxic insecticide against the all stages of tested caterpillars fallowed by other insecticides. Monocrotophos was least toxic against all stages larvae Papilio demoleus. The Endosufan was intermediate in toxicity against the tested insect larvae. The study of used insecticides may be promising in the population suppression of Papilio caterpillars infestation on citrus orchards hence an urgent and effective control measures need to introduce against this pest to secure the citrus fruits. For safe and superior quality and quantity of citrus production, an appropriate controlling strategy and proper pest management applications are recommended.','Insecticides, pest, citrus, toxicity, Papilio demoleus, caterpillars, larvae. LC50','From the present study, it can be concluded that the values of LC50 of tested insecticides were gradually increased with growth of insect larval stage which was least at 1st instar stage and higher at last stage larvae. The relationship between insecticides of synthetic pyrethroids, organochlorine and organophosphate groups is represented as Synthetic pyrethroids > Organochlorine > Organophosphate.','-','Yogendra Pal Singh and Ramakant (2023). Determination of Toxicity of various Groups of Insecticides Against Different Larval Stages of Lemon Butterfly, Papilio demoleus (Linn.). Biological Forum – An International Journal, 15(4): 487-492.'),(6511,'156','A Prospective Case Control Study of Dietary Habits of Head and Neck Cancer Patients at a Comprehensive Care Cancer Centre in Rural India','Kaushal P. Jani, Rajesh Kantharia, Shehnaz Kantharia, Deepti K. Jani and Sunita Goswami','A-Prospective-Case-Control-Study-of-Dietary-Habits-of-Head-and-Neck-Cancer-Patients-at-a-Comprehensive-Care-Cancer-Centre-in-Rural-India-Sunita-Goswami-83.pdf','',1,'Unhealthy diet is one of the major risk factors of cancer. Major challenge in cancer research is to find out dietary habits that can significantly reduce the cancer risk, therefore, this clinical study was carried out to test the hypothesis that poor dietary habits are significantly associated with incidence of head and neck cancer (HNC). Various studies conducted till date to find out association between dietary factors and risk of HNC showed controversial results, which indicates questionable role of dietary habits to influence occurrence of HNC. Therefore, in the current prospective study, data of dietary habits of HNC patients were compared with data of their control cohorts at a comprehensive care cancer centre in rural India. Our data suggested that consumption of plant-based foods like fruits reduces overall risk of HNC. Variations in diet, dietary and cooking habits as well as quality of food may be a key factor for differences in findings in various studies.','Dietary, HNC, cancer, fruits, vegetable, cancer','Despite availability of huge literature in support of beneficial effect of fruits, vegetables, fish and animal products in prevention of various types of cancers, our data indicates that only plant-based diet showed significant benefit against HNC. Daily consumption of fruits, may decrease overall risk, even in tobacco consumers.','-','Jani, K. P., Kantharia, R., Kantharia, S., Goswami, S. (2023). A Prospective Case Control Study of Dietary Habits of Head and Neck Cancer Patients at a Comprehensive Care Cancer Centre in Rural India. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 15(3): 493-497.'),(6512,'156','Carbon Sequestration Potential of different Land Use Pattern in Calcareous Soils of Muzaffarpur District, Bihar','Sanjay Kumar Singh, Ajeet Kumar and Kamlesh Kumar Singh','Carbon-Sequestration-Potential-of-Different-Land-Use-Pattern-in-Calcareous-Soils-of-Muzaffarpur-District,-Bihar-Sanjay-Kumar-Singh-84.pdf','',1,'Among the land use pattern, forest soils are an important component of the global C cycle and it store large amounts of organic carbon (OC). Comparing the carbon storage in various land use systems, required to assess organic carbon in the soils. In order to that, the study was conducted on the estimation of soil C stocks in three important land use systems viz. Mango orchards, cultivated and fallow lands in the Muzaffarpur district of Bihar. For the assessment of various soil properties, the soil samples were collected from three soil depth (0-15, 15-30 & 30-45cm) using soil core cutters. Among the different age of mango tree, the increased value of organic carbon obtained in 25 years old mango orchard than 10 and 20 years old trees respectively. The soil pH differed across the land use system, where, higher value was recorded in fallow land followed by cultivated land. However, lower pH was recorded in soils of mango orchard than other land use system may be due to addition of litter leaves of mango orchard. The higher concentrations of all micronutrients were recorded higher in surface soil. The information made by study the effects of different land use types on soil organic carbon stock is crucial for best land management practices and combating climate change and enhancing ecological restoration. ','soil organic carbon, micronutrients, orchard','The present study has shown that the carbon (C) sequestration can be enhanced by shifting the land use toward perennial systems. Among the land use pattern, organic matter deposition was found more in mango orchard soils than other land use system. However, among the tree age, the increased content of organic carbon value obtained with 25 years old tree orchard than 10 and 20 years old trees respectively. The higher content of macro and micronutrients was recorded in upper soil layer than lower. ','-','Sanjay Kumar Singh, Ajeet Kumar and Kamlesh Kumar Singh (2023). Carbon Sequestration Potential of Different Land Use Pattern in Calcareous Soils of Muzaffarpur District, Bihar. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 15(4): 498-503.'),(6513,'150','Effect of Different Sources of Nutrient on Nodulation, Nutrient Uptake and Yield of Soybean (Glycine max (L.) Merrill) in Black Soil','R.C. Jain, Anita Shukla, Nimisha Tiwari, M.K. Tarwariya, V.K. Jain and B.K. Sharma','Effect-of-Different-Sources-of-Nutrient-on-Nodulation,-Nutrient-Uptake-and-Yield-of-Soybean-(Glycine-max-(L.)-Merrill)-in-Black-Soil-Anita-Shukla-114.pdf','',1,'Soybean (Glycine max (L.) Merrill) crop belong to leguminaceae family and is basically native to East Asia. In the last century, chemical fertilizers were introduced and this made farmers to be happy of getting increased yield in agriculture in the beginning. But slowly chemical fertilizer stared displaying their ill-effect such as leaching, polluting water basins, destroying microorganism and friendly insect, making the crop more susceptible to the attack of diseases, reducing the soil fertility and thus causing irreparable damage to soil health. The prices of fertilizer are increasing day by day and therefore it is necessary to reduce the cost of fertilizer by using bradyrhizobium and PSB inoculation to increase yield of legume crops. Nowadays, the inorganic fertilizers are producing very hazardous effect on soil properties as well as sometimes enter in food chain and are also injurious to human being. The appropriate combination of mineral fertilizers with organic inputs can be feasible and visible to sustain high yield of crop without deterioration in quantity and quality of the produce and soil health. FYM (Farm Yard Manure) and Vermicompost are the most popular and readily available for use as an organic sources of plant nutrients.\r\nTherefore, the present experiment was laid out in a randomized block design consisted of 7 treatments variety JS 95-60 was used under experimentation consecutively for three years since Kharif 2016-17, 2017-18 & 2018-19 which was conducted in black soil. Analysis of soil and plant samples was done as per standard methods. The study revealed that the application of 75% RDF + Vermicompost 1.5t/ha + BF (T7) followed by T6 and T3 treatments recorded the significantly highest nodules number, its dry weight, uptake of nutrients (NPK) and seed yield. The enhancement in these parameters could be ascribed due to fair availability of nutrients in the soil with the application of organic and inorganic sources. The increment in supply of essential elements through organic and inorganic sources, their mobilization and influx into the plant tissues increased and hence such results.\r\n','Soybean, nodulation, vertisol, organic and bradyrhizobium','The studies concluded that the application of 75% RDF+ Vermicompost 1.5t/ha + BF (T7) followed by T6 and T3 treatments (Table 2) recorded the significantly highest nodules number, its dry weight, uptake of nutrients (NPK) and seed yield in black soil of central India for fetching optimum production of soybean and improving soil physical and chemical health. ','-','R.C. Jain, Anita Shukla, Nimisha Tiwari, M.K. Tarwariya, V.K. Jain and B.K. Sharma (2023). Effect of Different Sources of Nutrient on Nodulation, Nutrient Uptake and Yield of Soybean (Glycine max (L.) Merrill) in Black Soil. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 15(3): 735-737.'),(6514,'150','Impact of using Bio-NPK and Bio-Zn together with Chemical Fertilizers on uptake of Nutrients by Soybean (Glycine max L. Merrill) in Black Soil','Abhishek Sharma, M.D. Vyas, B.K. Sharma, R.C. Jain, Anita Shukla, B.R. Baraiya, M.K. Tarwariya and P.K. Para','Impact-of-using-Bio-NPK-and-Bio-Zn-together-with-Chemical-Fertilizers-on-uptake-of-Nutrients-by-Soybean-(Glycine-max-L.-Merrill)-in-Black-Soil-Anita-Shukla-115.pdf','',1,'Soybeans are a large oil seed crop and legume that may be produced in a variety of soils and climates. A crucial micronutrient needed by humans, animals, and plants is zinc. As there is a greater concern to sustain the deteriorating soil health due to indiscriminate use of chemical fertilizers and hence exerting the lack of beneficial microbes in the soil. Therefore, lack of essential nutrients in the soil is a global concern for the growth of food crops. The present investigation was carried out during kharif 2021 on Research farm of R.A.K. College of Agriculture, Sehore (M.P.) to evaluate the effect of conjoint use of Bio-NPK and Bio-Zn with chemical fertilizers on nutrient uptake of soybean. The studies have been found beneficial to fetch the more production of the crop along with improving the soil health. The experiment was laid out in Randomized Block Design with seven treatments in combinations in three replications consisting of treatments T1: Control; T2: 100% Recommended dose of fertilizers (RDF); T3: 75% RDF; T4: 75% RDF + Bio-Zn; T5: 75% RDF + Bio-NPK; T6: 75% RDF + Bio-Zn + Bio-NPK; T7: 75% RDF + Rhizobium japonicum. Revealed that nutrient content and uptake was also increased with the inoculation of microbial cultures as compared to uninoculated control and highest N uptake was found in treatment 100% RDF (74.95 Kg ha-1) and it was at par with 75% RDF + Bio-NPK, 75% RDF + Bio-Zn + Bio-NPK and 75%RDF + Rhizobium japonicum which uptake 69.92, 70.16 & 66.13 Kg ha-1. Highest P uptake found in 100% RDF (5.61 kg ha-1) however it was at par with 75% RDF + Bio-Zn + Bio-NPK which uptake 5.05 Kg ha-1. Highest k uptake found in 100% RDF (57.96 kg ha-1) however it was at par with 75% RDF + Bio-NPK and 75% RDF + Bio-Zn + Bio-NPK which uptake 52.62 & 50.72 Kg ha-1 by soybean crop at harvest and highest Zn and Fe uptake was found in 75% RDF + Bio-Zn + Bio-NPK (0.0408 & 0.0470 kg ha-1) however these were at par with75% RDF + Bio-Zn which uptake 0.0371 & 0.0430Kg ha-1.','Bio-Zn, Bio-NPK, Chemical Fertilizers, Black Soil, Soybean','The present study concluded that 100% RDF (20:60:20:20) is more effective in the uptake of N, P and K of the crop and 75% RDF + Bio-NPK + Bio-Zn effective in Zn and Fe uptake. Therefore, the study would definitely beneficial to produce optimum yield, quality and boost up the sustainable soil health. ','-','Abhishek Sharma, M.D. Vyas, B.K. Sharma, R.C. Jain, Anita Shukla, B.R. Baraiya, M.K. Tarwariya and P.K. Para (2023). Impact of using Bio-NPK and Bio-Zn together with Chemical Fertilizers on uptake of Nutrients by Soybean (Glycine max L. Merrill) in Black Soil. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 15(3): 738-743.'),(6515,'156','In vitro Anticancerous and Antimicrobial Activities of Curcuma amada Mediated Silver Nanoparticles','Thiagu G., Raja P., Suganthi P., Thilip C., Musfir Mehaboob V., Aslam A. and Shajahan A.','In-vitro-Anticancerous-and-Antimicrobial-Activities-of-Curcuma-amada-Mediated-Silver-Nanoparticles-Shajahan-A-85.pdf','',1,'Silver nanoparticles are extensively studied due to their exceptional physicochemical and biological features. Phytocompound based silver nanoparticles are considered as a unique and potentially useful alternative process for chemically synthesized nanoparticle. Curcuma amada rhizome mediated Ag NPs anticancerous and antimicrobial activities were analyzed. In vitro anticancerous studies against human breast cancer (MDA MB-231) cell lines and antimicrobial studies against gram positive (Staph. aureus, Bacillus subtilis) and negative (Pseudomonas aeruginosa, Escherichia coli) were studied. Increased concentrations of the silver nanoparticles showed increased cytotoxicity in the tumor cell lines (MDA MB-231) with IC50 observed as 163.5µg/ml. Among the tested bacterial species with different concentrations (10, 20, 40, 60, 80, 100, 200, 300, 400 and 500µg/ml) of green Ag NPs, P. aeruginosa showed high growth inhibition (14.7±0.8mm.) at 30µg/ml. Our study concluded that green synthesized Ag NPs by C. amada rhizome extract showed an efficient anticancerous and antimicrobial properties.','Silver Nanoparticles, C. amada, Anticancerous, Inhibition Zone, Cytotoxicity.','Green chemistry of Ag NPs using C. amada rhizome is a concise, safe and one-step procedure. Phytocompounds present in the synthesized nanoparticles elevated the reduction reaction on the tumor cells and pathogenic microorganisms. Altered membrane integrity resulted in the cytotoxicity of the tumor cells and the microbes.','-','Thiagu G., Raja P., Suganthi P., Thilip C., Musfir Mehaboob V., Aslam A. and Shajahan A. (2023). In vitro Anticancerous and Antimicrobial Activities of Curcuma amada Mediated Silver Nanoparticles. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 15(4): 504-507.'),(6516,'156','Evaluation of the Molecular properties, Bioactivity Score, Pharmacokinetics and Toxicological Analysis of the Novel Quinazoline-Linked Piperazine Derivatives','Patel Priteshkumar, Joshi Hirak, Patel Bhagirath and Bapna Mayank','Evaluation-of-the-Molecular-properties,-Bioactivity-Score,-Pharmacokinetics-and-Toxicological-Analysis-of-the-Novel-Quinazoline-Linked-Piperazine-Derivatives-Patel-Priteshkumar-86.pdf','',1,'Quinazoline and Piperazine derivatives have been revealed to exhibit a broad range of biological effects. As a result, substances having such a scaffold have been exploited as a lead in the design of drugs. As such, the objective of this investigation is to synthesize several quinazoline-linked piperazine analogues and execute in silico evaluations of their molecular properties, bioactivity score, pharmacokinetics, and toxicological analysis. The investigation showed that, apart from one molecular weight, the majority of the compounds fitted Lipinski\'s rule of five, indicating drug-likeness characteristics. The bioactivity data revealed that the N-(4-oxo-2-(4-((4-(2-(Substituted phenyl amino) acetyl) piperazin-1-yl) methyl) phenyl) quinazolin- 3(4H) - yl) benzamide derivatives were moderately active for GPCR ligand, Ion channel modulator, Kinase inhibitor, Nuclear receptor ligand, Protease inhibitor, and Enzyme inhibitor. The analysis revealed that all derivatives had the highest intestinal absorption, was not Blood Brain Barrier permeable, and was simple to remove because they could not inhibit CYP450 1A2. Using ProtTox-II, it was predicted that none of the synthesized molecules were cytotoxic and hepatotoxic. To tackle diseases with multiple drugs resistance, finding new antimicrobial drugs and improving the efficacy of those already in use through structural modification can be extremely important. The study provides information on the drug likeness, bioactivity scores, pharmacokinetics properties and toxicity of novel synthesized substances that can be employed to design and create novel anti-microbial medications that are more effective and have lower toxicity.','Quinazolin, in silico, Pharmacokinetic, Molecular Properties, Bioactivity, Toxicity','In conclusion, every substance complies with Lipinski\'s rules for molecules\' drug-likeness, except for molecular weight. All eleven compounds exhibited moderate bio-activity scores. Compounds have a moderately active for nuclear receptor ligand, kinase inhibitor, GPCR ligand, protease inhibitor, and enzyme inhibitor. All synthesized compounds, except PRP7B8, had significant levels of gastrointestinal absorption and were unable to penetrate the blood-brain barrier, according to results from in silico analyses of pharmacokinetic parameters. The CYP450 isoenzyme 1A2 metabolizes all substances, diminishing their plasma concentrations and toxicity risk. It was predicted that synthetic substances wouldn\'t be cytotoxic or hepatotoxic. Hence, an attempt was made to compare some specified anti-microbial medicines, such as Ciprofloxacin and Fluconazole, with the molecular properties, bioactivity score, pharmacokinetic parameters and toxicity studies of N-(4-oxo-2-(4-((4-(2-(Substituted phenyl amino) acetyl) piperazin-1-yl) methyl) phenyl) quinazolin- 3(4H)- yl) benzamide derivatives.','-','Patel Priteshkumar, Joshi Hirak, Patel Bhagirath, Bapna Mayank (2023). Evaluation of the Molecular properties, Bioactivity Score, Pharmacokinetics and Toxicological Analysis of the Novel Quinazoline-Linked Piperazine Derivatives. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 15(4): 508-517.'),(6517,'156','Effect of Mastacembelus Armatus Epidermal Mucus Extracts on Selected Urinary Tract Infection Pathogens','R. Sivasakthi, S. Uma Rajeswari and M. Umamageshwari ','Effect-of-Mastacembelus-Armatus-Epidermal-Mucus-Extracts-on-Selected-Urinary-Tract-Infection-Pathogens-R.-Sivasakthi-87.pdf','',1,'The developing bacterial resistance counter agents of antimicrobials have led to the research for alternatives to traditional antibiotics. The fish mucus comprises different antimicrobial representatives that serve as a first defence line to counter numerous pathogens of invading. The modern work was considered for evaluating the outcome of Mastacembelus armatus epidermal mucus on selected urinary tract infection (UTI) causing bacteria (Staphylococcus epidermidis, staphylococcus hominis, and proteus mirabilis, Enterobacter cloacae, Escherichia coli, Enterococcus avium, Pseudomonas aeruginosa) and fungi (Candida albicans). The selected UTI pathogens were treated with acetic acid, Aqueous and organic epidermal mucus subtracts gathered in the container of Mastacembelus armatus at 12.5, 25 and 50 along with 100µg/mL. The acidic mucus extract showed novel antibiotic activity against the selected UTI pathogens, followed by aqueous and organic mucus subtracts. Moreover, the acidic epidermal mucus extract of Mastacembelus armatus, at 100 µg/mL, displayed the highest zone of inhibition for Escherichia coli, followed by Candida albicans, Pseudomonas aeruginosa, Staphylococcus epidermidis, Proteus mirabilis, Staphylococcus hominis, Enterobacter cloacae and Enterococcus avium, respectively. Moreover, the values of MIC extended between 25 and 50 µg/mL, as well as the amounts of MBC scaled from 100 µg/mL and 50 µg/mL. For acidic epidermal mucus extract against selected UTI pathogens. The current findings presented that the epidermal mucus of acidic “Mastacembelus armatus processes” novel antimicrobial actions counter pathogens of UTI. ','Fish mucus, Activity of Antimicrobial, Tract of urinary infection, Mastacembelus armatus','The present study presented the acidic mucus extracts of Mastacembelus armatus possess novel antimicrobial activity against selected UTI pathogens than organic and aqueous mucus extracts. This indicates the presence of antimicrobial bioactive compounds / peptides / proteins in the mucus of Mastacembelus armatus. Therefore, further investigation is required to identify and isolate the individual antimicrobial compounds / peptides / proteins from the mucus of Mastacembelus armatus.','-','Sivasakthi, R., Uma Rajeswari, S. and Umamageshwari. M. (2023). Effect of Mastacembelus armatus epidermal mucus extracts on selected urinary tract infection pathogens. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 15(4): 518-525.'),(6518,'156','Content Validity of a Questionnaire to Assess the Knowledge of Low Back Pain of College Students','Sumedha Bhatia and Barkha Khurana','Content-Validity-of-a-Questionnaire-to-Assess-the-Knowledge-of-Low-Back-Pain-of-College-Students-Sumedha-Bhatia-88.pdf','',1,'Low back pain (LBP) is defined as discomfort or pain in the lower back region, which is located below the ribcage and above the buttocks. It is a common condition caused by a number of factors such as poor posture, muscle strain or injury, spinal problems, or degenerative conditions. Low back pain can be mild to severe, acute (lasting only a short time), or chronic (lasting for months or longer). LBP is a serious problem for global health that affects millions of people. 80% of people are predicted to suffer LBP at some point in their lives, according to the World Health Organization (WHO), making it one among the top causes of disability globally. LBP is the top cause of missed workdays and the second most frequent reason for doctor visits in the United States alone. Consequently, the goal of this study was to create and validate a questionnaire to evaluate college students\' understanding of Low back. The challenges this study faces include ensuring enough coverage of the concept of interest, developing acceptable response formats, overcoming linguistic and cultural hurdles, and minimising response biases. It was challenging to conduct the necessary reliability, validity, and responsiveness testing needed for questionnaire validation.\r\nThe study has two important phases -instrumental design and judgmental evidence. The questionnaire was validated using quantitative (content validity) technique with the panel of 12 subject expert using the content validity index (CVI). A second round of validation was sent for the items with the lowest scores (I-CVI <.80) in the preliminary version of this tool which revealed moderate content validity of individual questions. The tool has 30 questions that test your understanding of Anatomy, physiology, general facts, risk factors, causes, sign, symptoms as well as diagnosis, management, prevention and complication.\r\nA structured 30-item questionnaire with acknowledged content validity was produced, with a CVI score of at least 0.80 for each item. Utilizing an iterative process, the questionnaire\'s development and validation showed strong item-content validity for assessing college students\' knowledge of Low back pain. Additionally, it enhances the degree of knowledge held by college students in relation to low back pain, identifies knowledge gaps, offers suggestions for prevention and management, and has implications for policymakers, educators, and healthcare professionals.\r\n','Content Validity, CVI score, Low Back Pain, Questionnaire, College Students','The purpose of this study was to create and evaluate a questionnaire to test college students\' understanding of low back pain. We started with a thorough study of the literature to identify existing questionnaires as well as essential topics and constructs linked to low back pain in college students. Through this procedure, we were able to construct a questionnaire that would accurately capture the key information regarding low back pain.\r\nAssuring content validity is one of the biggest issues in questionnaire development. To overcome this difficulty, we invited input on the questionnaire\'s content from a group of professionals in the field of low back pain. The questions were examined by the panel for relevance, clarity, and completeness. The expert panel\'s feedback was utilised to further improve the questionnaire, ensuring that it appropriately tested college students\' understanding of low back pain. The experts acknowledged that the questions were comprehensible and relevant to college students, and that the questionnaire covered the appropriate subject areas.\r\nAn exhaustive and iterative procedure that included input from the literature and expert panels was used to construct a questionnaire to test college students\' knowledge of low back pain. The findings of our study indicate that the questionnaire has strong content validity and is a viable and reliable tool for determining this population\'s knowledge of low back pain. In next studies and educational initiatives aimed at this community, we advise using this questionnaire.\r\n','-','Sumedha Bhatia and Barkha Khurana (2023). Content Validity of a Questionnaire to Assess the Knowledge of Low Back Pain of College Students. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 15(4): 526-532.'),(6519,'156','In vitro Regeneration of Musa Spp. Plantlet CV. Grand Naine by Plant Tissue Culture Technique','Rahul R. Rodge, Anis Mirza, Harjinder Kaur, Lakhesing Girase and Khan Jabroot J.','In-vitro-Regeneration-of--Musa-Spp.-Plantlet-CV.-Grand-Naine-by-Plant-Tissue-Culture--Technique-Rahul-R-Rodge-89.pdf','',1,'Banana (Musa spp.) is one of the most consumable fruits and cultivated around the globe. It was majorly propagated through tissue culture technique. It contains high nutritional value as well as the high demand of the market. There are many challenges in banana production long gestation durations, low yields, excessive flood irrigation resulting to high mortality rates, and trouble propagating disease-free uniform suckers were problems that conventional banana farming techniques started to cause for growers. These difficulties may result from several things, including a scarcity of disease-free plants and planting materials or farmers who have not been exposed to new technology we contribute way to produce good quality Banana Tissue culture plant using with PGR and AC. To enhance the tissue culture technique for production of cv. Grand Naine plantlets we use 6-Benzylaminopurinefor shoot proliferation and Indole butyric acid and Activated charcoal for more root proliferation investigate the effect of different cytokinin concentrations, such as BAP (6-benzyl amino purine), on a shoot, leaf, and multiplication, as well as different auxin concentrations, such as IBA (Indole 3-butyric acid) + (AC) Activated charcoal, on root proliferation, to develop a protocol for in vitro plant regeneration from shoot tip explants of the Grand Naine variety of Banana. Different concentrations of BAP (0.0, 1.5, 2.0, 2.5, 3.0, 3.5, 4.0, 4.5, 5.0 mg/l) and IBA (0.5, 1.0, 1.5 mg/l) combination with AC (1.0, 1.5, 2.0 gm/l). The highest number of the shoot after 55 days was observed (6.16) MS medium supplemented with (4.0 mg/1 BAP) the highest length of shoot (5.76) cm that was recorded in MS medium supplemented with (4.0 mg/1 BAP) and highest number of leaves (4.5) found in MS medium supplemented with (4.0 mg/1 BAP) highest length of leaves 4.13 recorded in MS medium supplemented with (3.0 mg/l BAP) and highest number of Root recorded (5.0) in MS supplemented (2.0 gm/l AC+1.5 mg/l IBA) highest length of Root 8.25 recorded in MS supplemented (2.0 gm/l AC+1.5 mg/l IBA) respectively root proliferation recorded in 95 days. In the present study, we found (4.0 mg/l BAP) is best for a shoot, leaf proliferation, and multiplication, and AC + IBA is best for Root.','BAP cytokinin, IBA auxin, Activated charcoal, in vitro shoot, leaf, Root proliferation','Application BAP Growth hormone supplemented on MS culture medium at 4.0 mg/l and 5.0 mg/l performs better for new plantlet regeneration capabilities via in vitro shoot-tip culture. BAP concentration of 4.0 mg/l was shown to be the optimum concentration for shoot proliferation, shoot elongation, and leaf proliferation in the Banana cv. Grand Naine variety. For Root Proliferation and Root Elongation, Activated Charcoal (AC) is ideal for the combination with IBA growth regulators This combination gives the highest number of roots (2.0 g/l AC + 1.5 mg/l IBA) and the longest root length (2.0 g/l AC + 1.5 mg/l IBA) suitable for rooting proliferation alone IBA is not that much effective if we use Activated charcoal combine with IBA is best for Root proliferation early growth in tissue culture Banana on commercial production.','-','Rahul R. Rodge, Anis Mirza, Harjinder Kaur, Lakhesing Girase and Khan Jabroot J. (2023). In vitro Regeneration of Musa Spp. Plantlet CV. Grand Naine by Plant Tissue Culture Technique. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 15(4): 533-538.'),(6520,'156','To use the Finite-element Method for Optimization the Frame of a Straw Collector Cum Seeder Machine','Rahul Gautam and A.K. Shrivastava','To-use-the-Finite-element-Method-for-Optimization-the-Frame-of-a-Straw-Collector-Cum-Seeder-Machine-Rahul-Gautam-90.pdf','',1,'An effective numerical method for solving frame design problems is presented. The method has been shown to be applicable to non-swaying structures with a plane frame that can be partially or completely raised from the ground. Finite element analysis (FEA) is a computational technique that breaks down complex structures into small elements and solves them numerically using various partial differential equations. In agriculture, engineers can use FEA-based numerical simulation to study the behavior of various input products to optimize the design of any machine without developing a prototype. The individual beams are solved alternately in two orthogonal directions and a relaxation technique is used in each joint to adjust both solutions and achieve rotational compatibility. The present study focused to design and simulates the frame of tractor operated straw collector cum seeder machine by analysis structure in the FEA technique. 3D isometric view of frame of a tractor-operated straw collector cum seeder use as a material in this analysis was created using CAITA V5 and then structure analysis was performed by ANSYS R18.0.\r\nAfter 3D modeling by CATIA V5, boundary condition was defined. To analysis the static structure analysis of the frame structure to find equivalent results total deformation, equivalent elastic strain, directional deformation (X-axis), minimum principal elastic strain, maximum principal elastic strain, and maximum principal stress were found to be 5.61 mm, 1.06 mm/mm, 1.80 mm, -5.76 mm/mm, 4.89 mm/mm and 0.00055MPa respectively at 100N scraping forces. The static structure analysis calculates the effect of steady (or static) load condition on a structure, while ignoring inertia and damping effect, such as those caused by time varying loads. The FEA approach was found to be a scientific and highly effective method for designing and simulating the frame of a tractor-operated straw collector cum seeder machine. \r\n','CATIA, ANSYS, frame, deformation, strain, stress and FEA ','A 3D model was created in CATIA V5 design software to design and simulate the frame of the straw picker and seed drill, and the static structure analysis was performed in ANYSIS version R18.0 software. At 100 N scraping force, the simulated results predicted that the total maximum strain was 5.61 mm, the maximum equivalent elastic strain was 1.06 mm/mm, the maximum directional strain (X-axis) was 1.80 mm, the minimum principal elastic strain was 4 .89 mm/mm, the maximum principal elastic stress was 4.89 mm/mm and the maximum principal stress was found to be 0.00055 MPa. It was found that the stress values are within the yield limits of the material. As a result, it was found that the FEA technique is a scientific and very effective approach to the design and frame of the straw picker and planter, and the prototype of the tractor straw picker and planter frame can be developed based on that.','-','Rahul Gautam and A.K. Shrivastava (2023). To use the Finite-element Method for Optimization the Frame of a Straw Collector Cum Seeder Machine. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 15(4): 539-543.'),(6521,'156','Development of a Regression Equation to Measure the Relative Efficiency of P- Mobilization by Phosphatase, Phytase and Organic Acids','Amita Gharu Dhariwal and J.C. Tarafdar','Development-of-a-Regression-Equation-to-Measure-the-Relative-Efficiency-of--P--Mobilization-by-Phosphatase,-Phytase-and-Organic-Acids-JC-Tarafdar-91.pdf','',1,'It is important to know the relative contribution of phosphatases, phytase and organic acids which enable us to distinguish their individual importance in P mobilization. Therefore, we have developed a regression equation to understand the relative contribution of acid phosphatase, alkaline phosphatase, phytase and organic acids towards the P mobilization/solubilization from different organic matter soil. Our result suggested that acid phosphatase was most effective P mobilizers followed by phytase except under low soil organic matter condition where phytase was dominant P mobilizers. Among the organic acids, formic acid was most effective in P solubilization followed by citric acid while malic acid was found to be poor contributor under P solubilization. The effects of organic acids are found to be more under low organic P soil.','Organic acids, Phosphatases, Phytase, P mobilization, P solubilization, Regression equation','The present study evaluates a regression equation regarding the relative contribution of all four important P mobilizing/solubilizing agents (acid phosphatase, alkaline phosphatase, phytase and organic acids) present in soil after originating from both plant and microbial sources. The data indicates the relative contributions of all the agents under different soil organic matter and low P conditions. The results have the indication that although some of the agents are more effective under certain soil conditions but all four of them are equally important for soil P mobilization in one way or other for plant nutrition. The present findings also indicate that under agricultural settings phosphatases group of enzymes and organic acids plays an important role in P acquisition especially from native organic sources.','-','Amita Gharu Dhariwal and J.C. Tarafdar (2023). Development of a Regression Equation to Measure the Relative Efficiency of P- Mobilization by Phosphatase, Phytase and Organic Acids. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 15(4): 544-549.'),(6522,'156','Preliminary Phytochemical Profiles and Antioxidant Activities of Methanolic, Chloroform and Hexane Extracts of Alpinia galangal Rhizome and Morshella esculenta Mycelia','Nilanjana Prasad and Kashish Gupta','Preliminary-Phytochemical-Profiles-and-Antioxidant-Activities-of-Methanolic,-Chloroform-and-Hexane-Extracts-of-Alpinia-galangal-Rhizome-and-Morshella-esculenta-Mycelia-Kashish-Gupta-92.pdf','',1,'Alpinia galangal and Morshella esculenta are ethnomedicinal plants due to their radical scavenging and gastronomic qualities. This prompted us to carry out this study about the antioxidant activity of plants. Extraction was carried out using solvents by maceration followed by phytochemical screening. Purification of crude was done by silica gel column chromatography. Total phenolic and flavonoid content (TPC) and (TFC) of crude and fractions were determined. The antioxidant activities were assessed by scavenging assays. TPC of methanolic extract of A. galangal was found highest with the value of 49.787±0.063 GAE mg/g and showed higher TFC with the value of 38.013±2.116 QCE mg/g. The highest H2O2 activity was shown by fraction MEC5 (83.363%). The highest ABTS radical scavenging activity was shown by AGC (99.68%). However, our study faced different challenges such as differences between antioxidant activities, H2O2 activity etc. In conclusion, three different solvent extracts of A. galangal and M. esculenta revealed the presence or absence of phytochemicals tested and varying degrees of in-vitro antioxidant activity. ','Alpinia galangal, Morshella esculenta, phytochemicals, antioxidant, hydrogen peroxide','From the above study, it can be concluded that three different solvent extracts of methanol, chloroform and hexane of A. galangal rhizome and M. esculenta mycelia showed the presence and absence of phytochemicals tested and varying degrees of in-vitro ABTS and H2O2 antioxidant activities. Ethnomedicinal plants A. galangal and M. esculenta possessed antioxidant potential due to the presence of principal antioxidants such as phenols and flavonoids. Methanolic extracts of A. galangal rhizome rose out to be the profound hub for antioxidant activities because of their high TPC, TFC and ABTS radical scavenging potential. M. esculenta mycelia might be a promising herb due to its increased H2O2 radical scavenging activity. We are blessed with a plethora of magical natural ingredients from nature, it solely depends upon us to scientifically explore them for societal benefits. ','-','Nilanjana Prasad and Kashish Gupta (2023). Preliminary Phytochemical Profiles and Antioxidant Activities of Methanolic, Chloroform and Hexane Extracts of Alpinia galangal Rhizome and Morshella esculenta Mycelia. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 15(4): 550-556.'),(6523,'156','Farmers Attitude Towards the use of ICT Interventions in Khurda District of Odisha','Shilpa Bahubalendra, B.P. Mohapatra and Harihar Jena','Farmers-Attitude-Towards-the-use-of-ICT-Interventions-in-Khurda-District-of-Odisha-Shilpa-Bahubalendra-93.pdf','',1,'Agriculture sector is one among the foremost important sector in India. Keeping in view of the demand for agricultural growth, evolutionary changes have been made in transfer of technology to reach the farming community effectively. The technology revolution encompasses new ways of capturing, processing, storing, and displaying information and is capable of increasing productivity and competitiveness through information provision. Effective use of ICT tools in rural areas depends on the preparedness of people through proper knowledge and attitude in using these tools. The Information and Communication Technology (ICT) is one of these solutions and has recently unleashed incredible potential to improve agriculture in developing countries specifically. There in regards, extensive use of information technologies must be promoted to farm level for transfer of technologies. The study was conducted during the year 2019 to assess the attitude of farmers towards information and communication technology tools in two blocks i.e., Balianta and Balipatna of Khurda district of Odisha. Pre-structured interview schedule was used for data collection from the farmers and appropriate statistical tools were used to analyze the collected data. Proportionate random sampling was used in the selection of one hundred and twenty (120) farmers as the sample of the study. The outcomes confirmed that a half (50.00%) of the respondents opined that they got timely information on inputs through the ICT interventions and informed that they increased their knowledge on specification of prices. More than half (54.16%) of the respondents said that the available data through the station may not accurately represent the current weather condition on a farm. Majority of the respondents (56.68%) were happy, satisfied. Half (50.00%) of the respondents said that they were getting timely information on the demand of product and subsidies available in the market. An appraisal of the content analysis of the statements shows that the majority of the respondents had more favorable attitude towards ICT tools.','Agriculture, Attitude, Farmers, ICT, Knowledge','The findings revealed that the majority of farmers had favourable attitude towards the use of ICT Interventions still there is dependence on the informal sources of information due to the lack of credibility in the information provided by the ICT tools, the farmers are not adopting the recommendations given by them. So, the extension agents should make efforts to enhance the credibility of the ICTs by providing adequate, timely and useful information and impart skill in using ICT tools. This enables them to utilize the ICT tools and develop a favourable attitude towards ICTs use. Therefore, there is a need to make available these tools at village level along with creating awareness about the importance of ICT tools and types of services providing by these tools to the farming community. Providing such facilities at village level will further attract them to use these tools for doubling their income. Further providing services in local language and making the tools more users friendly which will result in developing positive attitude towards ICT tools. Hence, there is a strong need to educate the farmers during extension programmes regarding usefulness of ICT tools, type of information provided and authority of information to make them aware about these tools.','-','Shilpa Bahubalendra, B.P. Mohapatra and Harihar Jena (2023). Farmers Attitude Towards the use of ICT Interventions in Khurda District of Odisha. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 15(4): 557-561.'),(6524,'156','Analysis of Genetic Variability, Correlation and Path Coefficient in Pumpkin (Cucurbita spp.) Genotypes','Ujyol Rai, Suchand Datta, Safal Rai and Bandan Thapa','Analysis-of-Genetic-Variability,-Correlation-and-Path-Coefficient-in-Pumpkin-(Cucurbita-spp.)-Genotypes-Ujyol-Rai-94.pdf','',1,'Genetic variability and its proper characterization are of vital importance in hybridisation programme of a crop for making a successful rapid improvement. In India, there is a wide range of genetic variability in pumpkin but, not much attention has been given to its improvement programme. Moreover, pumpkins (Cucurbita spp.) are grown as a summer crop in Terai region of West Bengal and no suitable genotypes are available for winter season cultivation. Hence, the present study focuses on identifying and conserving the superior genotypes for off-season to facilitate the future breeding programme. The present experiment was carried out at the experimental field of the department, Vegetable and Spice Crops, Uttar Banga Krishi Viswavidyalaya, Pundibari, Cooch Behar, West Bengal, India with thirty one genotypes of pumpkin (Cucurbita spp.) collected from the hills of West Bengal and North East region of India during the Rabi season of 2020-21. The genetic variability, correlation and path analysis of various attributes was analysed with the help of GENRES statistical software. The analysis of variances revealed significant difference among the genotypes which confirms the presence of good genetic variability. The highest PCV was observed in vitamin A content of the fruit (48.54%) while, the highest GCV was observed in average fruit weight (47.84%). However, for most of the traits the difference between PCV and GCV were minimum which indicates that the studied traits were least effected by environment. Heritability in broad sense and genetic advance was very high to high for most of the traits under study. The vine length, fruit length, fruit diameter, flesh thickness, seed cavity diameter, fruits per plant and average fruit weight was significantly and positively correlated with fruit yield per plant. The path coefficient analysis suggested that the fruit diameter (0.701) exerted the highest positive and direct effect on fruit yield followed by primary branches (0.452) and fruits per plant (0.447) which indicates a true relationship between these traits and yield per plant.','Correlation, genotypes, genetic variability, path analysis, pumpkin','According to the findings of this study, for each of the thirty one pumpkin genotypes, significant differences were found, showing a wide range of variability that can be used to select a potential genotype. Characters such as average fruit weight, fruits per plant, and fruit yield per plant exhibit substantial genetic and phenotypic variance, as well as high heritability and genetic advance in the percent of mean, and can be utilised for pumpkin genotype selection. The character fruit diameter could be regarded as the principal trait as it had the greatest positive direct influence on fruit yield as well as a highly significant positive correlation. While, other traits like average fruit weight, seed cavity diameter, and flesh thickness should also be prioritised because they have been shown to have a strong correlation with fruit yield in plants. Therefore, selection made based on these traits would help to increase the fruit yield of pumpkins.','-','Ujyol Rai, Suchand Datta, Safal Rai and Bandan Thapa (2023). Analysis of Genetic Variability, Correlation and Path Coefficient in Pumpkin (Cucurbita spp.) Genotypes. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 15(4): 562-569.'),(6525,'156','Response of Varieties to Foliar Application of Zn and Fe for Yield and Quality Parameters of Okra','A.J. Patel, B.N. Satodiya and A.S. Bhanvadia','Response-of-Varieties-to-Foliar-Application-of-Zn-and-Fe-for-Yield-and-Quality-Parameters-of-Okra-AJ-Patel-95.pdf','',1,'Micronutrient disorder appears to be the most widespread and frequent problem in crop production worldwide, resulting in severe losses in yield and nutritional values. To overcome this problem study was conducted. The experiment was conducted in kharif during 2020 and 2021 in Factorial RBD with three replications and fourteen treatment combinations comprising two varieties i.e., V1: GAO 5 and V2: GO 6 and seven level of foliar application of Zn and Fe viz., M1: FeSO4 @ 0.50 %, M2: ZnSO4 @ 0.50 %, M3: Fe EDDHA @ 0.1 %, M4: Fe EDDHA @ 0.2 %, M5: Zn EDTA @ 0.1 %, M6: Zn EDTA @ 0.2 % and M7: Control (Water spray). Which were sprayed in four frequencies at 30, 40, 50 and 60 DAS. Variety GAO 5 recorded the maximum pods per plant (20.50), pod yield (258.89 g/plant and 13.91 t/ha), fibre content of pod (2.56%), chlorophyll content of pod (0.496 mg/100 g), phenol content of pod (0.112%), and the lowest amount of leaf membrane damage (32.72%). Foliar application of Zn EDTA @ 0.2% resulted in maximum days to last picking (96.93), number of pods per plant (21.35), pod weight (14.43 g), pod yield (269,44 g/plant and 14.64 t/ha), fibre content of pod (2.62%), chlorophyll content of pod (0.504 mg/100 g), phenol content of pod (0.119 %) and least amount of leaf membrane injury (26.92 %). Zn EDTA applied topically at 0.2% with variety GAO 5 produced the maximum pods per plant (24.22), with the highest chlorophyll content (0.509 mg/100 g).','Varieties, Zn EDTA, foliar spray, yield, okra','From the two years of field study, it can be concluded that variety GAO 5 found better with regards to yield and quality parameters and foliar application of Zn EDTA @ 0.2 % at 30, 40, 50 and 60 days after sowing improves yield parameters as well as quality of okra pods. Combining the effects of variety GAO 5 and foliar Zn EDTA @ 0.2% spray increases okra pod length, number of pods per plant, and chlorophyll content of pod.','-','A.J. Patel, B.N. Satodiya and A.S. Bhanvadia (2023). Response of Varieties to Foliar Application of Zn and Fe for Yield and Quality Parameters of Okra. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 15(4): 570-574.'),(6526,'156','Effect of Phytogenic Feed Additives on Growth Performance of Japanese Quail','P. Tensingh Gnanaraj, S. Ezhil Valavan and A. Arun Bharathi','Effect-of-Phytogenic-Feed-Additives-on-Growth-Performance-of-Japanese-Quail-S-Ezhil-Valavan-96.pdf','',1,'Use of Antibiotic growth promoters (AGP) in poultry feed has been reduced in many countries due to antibiotic resistance. As an alternative to antibiotics locally available herbal mixtures are added in poultry feed to enhance the performance of chicken. Hence, the present study was designed to analyse the effect of phytogenic feed additives (Allium sativum, Emblica officinalis, Ocimum sanctum, Cuminum cyminum, Curcuma longa, Foeniculum vulgare, Jatropha curcas, Murraya koenigii, Piper nigrum, Trigonella foenum graecum and Zingiber officinale) on growth performance of Japanese quails. A total of 360-day old Japanese quail chicks were randomly divided into four treatment groups with three replicates of 30 Japanese quail chicks in each. Graded level of phytogenic feed additives (0, 0.5, 0.75 and 1 %) added to the basal feed. There was a significant difference (P < 0.01) in body weight and weight gain at 4 and 5 weeks of age between treatment groups. Japanese quail received 1 % phytogenic feed additives had significantly (P<0.01) higher feed consumption and better feed conversion ratio. No significant difference in livability among treatment groups. Ready-to-cook yield showed significant (P<0.05) difference among treatment and control group. Supplementation of phytogenic feed additives had non-significant effect on sensory attributes. The inclusion of 1 % phytogenic feed additives improved the growth performance of Japanese quail.','Phytogenic feed additives, Growth performance, Japanese quail','It is concluded that the supplementation of phytogenic feed additives at graded levels enhanced growth performance in Japanese quails. Further, it could be explained that this improvement on growth may be due to enhanced digestibility, anti-oxidant and anti-microbial activities of phytogenic feed additives fed to Japanese quails.','-','P. Tensingh Gnanaraj, S. Ezhil Valavan and A. Arun Bharathi (2023). Effect of Phytogenic Feed Additives on Growth Performance of Japanese Quail. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 15(4): 575-579.'),(6527,'156','Nutritional Evaluation and Value Addition of Drumstick Pods','Anjali Chaudhary, Sadhna Singh, Parul Maurya, Mridula Pandey and Zeenat Aman','Nutritional-Evaluation-and-Value-Addition-of-Drumstick-Pods-Anjali-Chaudhary-97.pdf','',1,'The study was conducted by laboratory techniques in the department of Food Science and Nutrition, College of Community Science, Acharya Narendra Dev University of Agriculture & Technology, Kumarganj, Ayodhya, during 2020-22 secession. The study on title “Nutritional Evaluation and value addition of Drumstick pods” was undertaken to determine the physical and nutritional composition of immature and mature drumstick (Moringa oleifera) pods. The proximate composition of drumstick leaves was investigated in the studies. The moisture content of immature and mature pods was found to be 9.2 and 5.8 g. Protein estimated by Lowery method, the protein content of immature pods 21.03 and mature pods 22.39g. Crude fat content in immature pods 0.26 and mature pods 4.60 g. Crude fiber content in immature pods35.52 and mature pods 37.63 g. Carbohydrate in immature and mature pods was 29 and 21 respectively. According to proximate analysis of the all nutrient it has been found that in the drumsticks pods calcium in immature pods234 mg /100 g and in mature pods239 mg /100 g. Phosphorus value in immature pods 100mg/100g and in mature pods 111mg /100 g. In this series Vitamin ‘C’ content in fresh immature pods 117mg/100g and in mature pods 113 mg /100 g. Fresh drumstick pods were successfully used for preparing different nutritive food products- pods subji, pods chokhadrum stick based food products is good for health. Moringa pods content high amount of dietary fiber and low fat, which helps for obese/ fat loss. Drumstick (Moringa oleifera) is one of the promising plants which could contribute to increased intake of essential nutrients and health promoting phytochemicals. ','Proximate analysis, essential nutrients, nutritive foods, phytochemical, Pods','Physical, chemical and nutritional attributes of drumstick pods. The pods were found be rich in minerals like calcium and phosphorus and vitamin ‘C’. Use of moringa pod in day Several value added products can be prepared from fresh drumstick pods Drumstick pods ubji Drumstick pod Chokha. Eating drumstick based food products is good for those suffering from malnutrition. It is essential that the nutrients of this wonder tree are exploited for a variety of purposes. Moringa oleifera leaf powder should be advocated for supplementation in household diets especially in rural and disadvantaged communities.','-','Anjali Chaudhary, Sadhna Singh, Parul Maurya, Mridula Pandey and Zeenat Aman (2023). Nutritional Evaluation and Value Addition of Drumstick Pods. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 15(4): 580-583.'),(6528,'153','Effectiveness of Quality Management System in Construction Projects','Muhammad Waheed and Shahid Khan','Effectiveness-of-Quality-Management-System-in-Construction-Projects-Muhammad-Waheed-2.pdf','',1,'The Performance Management System (PMS) in the building and construction industry relates to the planning stage, product testing, and control and quality improvement. The successful completion of construction projects within the limits of good standards, predetermined timelines, and associated costs is the main objective of the building sector. Construction businesses should provide a flexible and supportive overall organizational structure that promotes the progress of quality management in all areas of the business, according to the QMS research. In the most recent study, a survey is done by speaking with those who have been involved. The investor, a project financial analyst, a construction business, as well as various contractors and supply chain partners, were among the participants in the project. The authors developed questionnaires for construction buyers, advisers, and contractors evaluating the quality aspects of infrastructure projects. To write this paper, data from survey interviews with builders and contractors were collected.','Quality Improvement, Materials Management, Purchasing, Benefits Management','Following the completion of the report\'s examination and recommendations for improving productivity in building projects, the following can be inferred:\r\n•For elements creating delays in construction projects: Mysterious dirt requires site administration functions, and in some situations, the capacity to make judgment calls is constrained.\r\n•Internal stakeholders\' misunderstanding of a quality factor: poor management, a lack of transparency, and miscommunication between human and subcontractor labor.\r\n•Factors involving labor and equipment: the use of old or inadequate development technologies, improper workplace palletization, and the selection of staff with insufficient experience.\r\n•In the absence of leadership: Inadequate distribution and logistics, inadequate design standards, minimal budgets, implementation errors, and dishonest subcontractor practices are all examples of inefficient site monitoring systems.\r\n•Causes for improper material handling in projects: improper material supply and origin study, excessive demand for a product above allowed standards, and inappropriate pre-development analysis on the component.\r\n•With relation to the location: Manage resources when raw material consumption, inadequate site storage, organizationally imposed restrictions, on-site theft, unforeseen site conditions, and the existence of unnecessary items are present.\r\n•To affect the cost-effectiveness of particular construction projects: Absence of competence and experience were also acknowledged as qualifiers; nevertheless, the presence of a necessary project that is robust and resilient to socio-political and meteorological conditions, as well as fierce competition during the tendering stage, would be helpful.\r\n','-','Muhammad Waheed and Shahid Khan (2023). Effectiveness of Quality Management System in Construction Projects. International Journal on Emerging Technologies, 14(1): 09–11.'),(6529,'156','Molecular profiling of a novel bacteria Cronobacter sakazakii (ON248143), degrading organophosphate (MCP) Pesticide from Contaminated Soil of Agricultural land','M. Chidambarapriya, P. Vanitha Pappa and K. Madhubala','Molecular-profiling-of-a-novel-bacteria-Cronobacter-sakazakii-(ON248143),-degrading-organophosphate-(MCP)-pesticide-from-contaminated-soil-of-agricultural-land-P-Vanitha-Pappa-98.pdf','',1,'The widespread and indiscriminate use of pesticides in agriculture for pest control has caused major harm and issues for both humans and biodiversity. It has been thought to be useful to cleanse areas that have been contaminated by pesticides via microbial biodegradation of pesticides in contaminated soils. A commonly used organophosphorus insecticide called monocrotophos has negative consequences, particularly those on the central nervous system. This study\'s objective was to use an enrichment culture approach to isolate bacteria from Monocrotophos (MCP)-contaminated soil. The isolates received a high dose (1000 ppm) of MCP as a carbon source supplement. Based on the 16S rRNA gene sequence, the isolate was determined to be Cronobacter sakazakii (ON248143), a microorganism that may degrade MCP. The outcomes were validated with an analytical tool, High-Performance Liquid Chromatography (HPLC).','Pesticides, central nervous system, organophosphorus, enrichment culture technique, HPLC','With this increased awareness, research has recently focused on the fate of pesticides in soils and health risks due to their transfer and accumulation in plants. Our study reveals that isolated bacterial strains growing in contaminated sites can withstand high levels of monocrotophos in the soil. The potent isolated bacteria in Ops biodegradation were molecularly identified as Cronobacter sakazakii (ON248143) by 16S rRNA gene sequence. New strain Cronobacter sakazakii(ON248143) proved that is a good tool in the bioremediation process in MCP contaminated soil.','-','M. Chidambarapriya, P. Vanitha Pappa and K. Madhubala (2023). Molecular profiling of a novel bacteria Cronobacter sakazakii (ON248143), degrading organophosphate (MCP) pesticide from contaminated soil of agricultural land. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 15(4): 584-589.'),(6530,'156','Studies on the Investigation of Anti-Oxidant and Cellular Toxicity on L929 Cell Line of Andrographis paniculata and its Derivative of Silver and Gold Nanoparticles','M. Shirley Navis and Ragel Mabel Saroja','Studies-on-the-Investigation-of-Anti-Oxidant-and-Cellular-Toxicity-on-L929-Cell-Line-of-Andrographis-paniculata-and-its-Derivative-of-Silver-and-Gold-Nanoparticles-M-Shirley-Navis-99.pdf','',1,'The current pharmaceutical industry is increasingly turning to plant-based multi-potential bioactive compounds to combat a variety of diseases and pathological conditions due to the consequences of administrating synthetic drugs. To Avoid back reflection of synthetic drugs, researchers are focusing on natural derivatives guided from traditional medical practices. Plants are playing vital role in nutritional and disease control aspects in traditional era. Terrestrial resources contain a vast array of medicinally valuable plants that have traditionally been used to treat a wide range of diseases, including hepatoprotective, anti-inflammatory, antibacterial, anti-cancer, and antidiabetic properties. Similarly, the study plant Andrographis paniculata demonstrated significant medicinal properties; thus, the potential activity of a leaf ethanolic extract of A. paniculata, diethyl phthalate purified from the crude ethanolic extract, and their modified metal (Silver and Gold) nanoparticles against free radicals, namely DPPH and phosphomolebdenum assays. In addition, the study samples were subjected to an MTT assay to assess cellular toxicity in comparison to the L929 cell line. The results showed that the promising drug carrier system of diethyl phthalate silver nanoparticles (DPAgNPs) exhibited lower toxicity and higher anti-oxidant activity.','Andrographis paniculata, Diethyl phthalate, Silver and gold nanoparticles, DPPH, Phospohomolebdenum and Cytotoxicity','Nowadays, modern pharmacologists have turned to traditional and classic medicinal approaches for deriving multi-potential bioactive compounds to encounter a wide range of diseases and physiological disorders. In this research, the anti-oxidant potential and cytotoxic effects of a crude ethanolic extract of Andrographis paniculata, diethyl phthalate, silver, and gold nanoparticles synthesised using diethyl phthalate were evaluated, and the outcome revealed the improved anti-oxidant activity achieved from DPAgNPs compared with other test samples against both radicals (DPPH and phosphomolebdenum). It was also demonstrated that DPAgNPs had a less toxic effect on the L929 cell line among the study samples. The data show that using DPAgNPs for developing drug carrier systems is far superior to using A. paniculata, diethyl phthalate, and DPAuNPs alone, resulting in safe and fine activities. ','-','M. Shirley Navis and Ragel Mabel Saroja (2023). Studies on the Investigation of Anti-Oxidant and Cellular Toxicity on L929 Cell Line of Andrographis Paniculata and its Derivative of Silver and Gold Nanoparticles. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 15(4): 590-597.'),(6531,'156','Influence of Liquid Bio-fertilizers Along with Inorganic and Organic Sources of Nutrients on Quality Parameters of Cluster Bean [Cyamopsis tetragonoloba (L.) Taub.]','K. Kirubashre, A. Shanthi and M. Manikandan','Influence-of-Liquid-Bio-fertilizers-Along-with-Inorganic-and-Organic-Sources-of-Nutrients-on-Quality-Parameters-of-Cluster-Bean-[Cyamopsis-tetragonoloba-(L.)-Taub.]-K-Kirubashre-100.pdf','',1,'Cluster bean is a legume crop, which requires minimum level of nitrogen but need to be supplemented with proper dose of nitrogen, phosphorus and potassium fertilizers for better growth and development. Being a drought tolerant crop, its cultivation in marginal lands with little or no inputs contribute to its poor productivity and quality. Thus, the present investigation was conducted to evaluate the effect of application of liquid bio-fertilizers [Rhizobium, phosphorus solubilizing bacteria (PSB) and potassium solubilizing bacteria (KSB)] in combination with three different levels of recommended dose of fertilizer (100%, 75% and 50%) and organic manures (FYM and Vermicompost) on quality of cluster bean [Cyamopsis tetragonoloba (L.) Taub.]. The study was carried out during 2022 in a Randomized Block Design (RBD) with 11 treatments in three replications. The quality attributes of cluster bean pods viz., crude fibre, crude protein, shelf life and dry pod weight were found to be improved in plants treated with application of 75% RDF ha-1 + Vermicompost 5 t ha-1 + Rhizobium, PSB, KSB each at 20 ml kg-1 seeds + PPFM 1% at 30th and 60th DAS (T10).','Cluster bean, Quality parameters, Inorganic & Organic sources, Liquid Biofertilizers','Crude protein, shelf life and dry pod weight were found to be higher with lesser crude fibre content in cluster bean pods when applied with 75% RDF ha-1 + Vermicompost 5 t ha-1 + Rhizobium at 20 ml kg-1 seeds + PSB at 20 ml kg-1 seeds + KSB at 20 ml kg-1 seeds + PPFM 1% at 30th and 60th DAS (T10). Therefore, it could be concluded that treatment combination T10 could be adopted to improve the quality of cluster bean.','-','K. Kirubashre, A. Shanthi and M. Manikandan (2023). Influence of Liquid Bio-fertilizers Along with Inorganic and Organic Sources of Nutrients on Quality Parameters of Cluster Bean [Cyamopsis tetragonoloba (L.) Taub.]. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 15(4): 598-602.'),(6532,'153','Literature Review: Internet of Things (IoT) Based System for Smart House','Utkarsh Sharma and Pawan Thakur','Literature Review Internet of Things (IoT) Based System for Smart House-Pawan Thakur 3.pdf','',1,'IoT is a network of physical devices. The Internet has become not just a computer network, but a network of devices of all types and sizes. These are cars, smartphones, appliances, toys, cameras, medical equipment and machinery, animals, people, and buildings. When we think of IoT systems, the most important and useful application that always stands out is the smart home, which is the most advanced IoT application overall. The number of people looking for a smart home is increasing every month. The smart home or \"home automation\" describes connectivity in our home. It includes electronics, appliances, entertainment, windows, door locks and more. In this paper, we present a literature review on various IoT-based smart homes.','Network IoT, Automation, Smart Home, device, Sensor, objects, gadgets','IoT provides a flexible and scalable platform that can support many different applications. Its popularity has led to many applications including smart home and more. The main applications of home automation systems are ambient lighting/daylight and heating, ventilation and air conditioning systems, monitoring and control, safety and security, healthcare, fire protection Electricity, environmental management and data entry with traditional services. Home applications include smart home security, aged care smart home, smart hospital, smart nursing home, energy efficient smart home and better life smart home.','-','Utkarsh Sharma and Pawan Thakur (2023). Literature Review: Internet of Things (IoT) Based System for Smart House. International Journal on Emerging Technologies, 14(1): 12–15.'),(6533,'156','Response of Groundnut Varieties to Phosphorus Management and its Residual Effect on Succeeding Baby Corn','Moinuddin G. and Saren B.K.,','Response-of-Groundnut-Varieties-to-Phosphorus-Management-and-its-Residual-Effect-on-Succeeding-Baby-Corn-Moinuddin-G-101.pdf','',1,'Phosphorus gets fixed (.> 80%) and becomes unavailable to crop after its application to soil. Baby corn can be successfully followed after groundnut. The experimental was conducted at RRS, BCKV, Jhargram during 2019 and 2020 in split plot design with three main and six subplot treatments to find out the effect of phosphorus management on growth and yield of groundnut varieties and its residual effect on succeeding baby corn. Highest pod yield (2007 kg/ha), shelling % (67.35%), Oil % (49.97%), number of nuts/plant (23.23) & 100 kernel weight (40.55g) were obtained with groundnut variety TG 51 and application of (100% RDP + PSB + FYM). The residual effect was highest for variety TAG 24 and above said phosphorus dose applied to previous groundnut. So, groundnut variety either TG 51 alone or TAG 24 followed by baby corn can be successfully grown with application of 100% RDP + PSB + FYM.','Phosphorus, Variety, Groundnut, Baby corn, PSB, FYM','So, groundnut variety either TG 51 alone or TAG 24 followed by baby corn can be successfully grown with application of phosphorus @ 60 kg/ha along with PSB @ 25 g per kg of seed & FYM @ 2 ton /ha. Regarding the beneficial role of PSB & FYM, FYM performed little better than PSB on different growth (particularly at later crop growth stage) & yield parameters of groundnut crop and for the subsequent baby corn PSB was found better than FYM. Inoculation of PSB and FYM to reduced phosphorus dose (75% of RDP) may be recommendable to farmers instead of 100% RDP application for prolonged residual effect on succeeding crops.','-','Moinuddin G. and Saren B.K. (2023). Response of Groundnut Varieties to Phosphorus Management and its Residual Effect on Succeeding Baby Corn. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 15(4): 603-608.'),(6534,'156','Effect of Paclobutrazol on Vegetative and Reproductive Phenology of Chickpea (Cicer arietinum L.)','Sumanta Panda, Subhasis Mondal, Suryakant Hembram, Kousik Atta and Osman Ali','Effect of Paclobutrazol on Vegetative and Reproductive Phenology of Chickpea (Cicer arietinum L.)-Sumanta Panda-102.pdf','',1,'Chickpea (Cicer arietinum L.) is the most important pulse crop in India. In spite of the impressive status of India in chickpea cultivation, its national yield is 956.4 Kg ha-1 which is poor compared to the corresponding figures for China (5.45 tonnes. ha-1) or Moldova (4.08 tonnes ha-1). Paclobutrazol is a widely used growth retardant that was reported to successfully enhance yield, regularize fruit-bearing, change the fruiting season, fruit quality etc. At the biochemical level, it acts as an inhibitor of gibberellin biosynthesis. The experimental material for the study consisted of chickpea variety i.e., JAKI 92-18 with six treatments; 0 (control), 25, 35, 45, 55, and 65 ml/ ha. Paclobutrazol caused to delay in the appearance of floral bud, flower and pod formation though did not lengthen the attainment of physiological crop maturity. Paclobutrazol caused to reduced plant height, and no primary and secondary branches but enhanced no flower pod setting and pod at maturity though caused to decline in the proportion of the contribution of the secondary branches. The main challenges in this experiment were the concentration of paclobutrazol and the crop growth stage in which the effect could be remarkably distinguishable. The highest yield was obtained in paclobutrazol 35 ml/ha; other treatments with substantially higher yield than control were paclobutrazol 45 ml/ha, and paclobutrazol 25 ml/ha at the vegetative stage.','Chickpea, Paclobutrazol, Phenology, Reproductive, Vegetative, Yield','The highest yield was obtained in paclobutrazol 35 ml/ha; other treatments with substantially higher yield than control were paclobutrazol 45 ml/ha, and paclobutrazol 25 ml/ha at the vegetative stage.','-','Sumanta Panda, Subhasis Mondal, Suryakant Hembram, Kousik Atta and Osman Ali (2023). Effect of Paclobutrazol on Vegetative and Reproductive Phenology of Chickpea (Cicer arietinum L.). Biological Forum – An International Journal, 15(4): 609-612.'),(6535,'156','Influence of Age on the Carcass characteristics, Carcass Measurements and Physico-chemical Qualities of Emu meat in Chiller Storage','Ramani R., P. Tensingh Gnanaraj, V. Appa Rao, R. Narendra Babu and Robinson J.J. Abraham','Influence-of-Age-on-the-Carcass-characteristics,-Carcass-Measurements-and-Physico-chemical-Qualities-of-Emu-meat-in-Chiller-Storage-Ramani-R-103.pdf','',1,'The misconceptions towards red meat (beef, mutton, chevon and pork) consumption and the association of several cholesterol associated problems and heart diseases with meat consumption and the ever persisting religious taboo on beef slaughter and consumption have created a thrust to look for an alternative red meat that will meet the highest protein and iron requirements, but with lowest cholesterol and at the same time of high nutritive value invariably consumed by all the communities as well as by all age groups in India. In the current scenario, the best alternative of red meat with the above expected perspectives emerges to be the Emu meat.\r\nEmu birds of two different age groups (15 and 18 months old, thirteen in each group) were studied for their Carcass characteristics, measurements and physico –chemical qualities of meat in chiller storage. The observations of this study revealed that emu meat could be a potential red meat alternative and that these birds could be a significant source of lean meat, fat, skin and edible by – products. Increase in age showed a significant and progressive increase in live weight and carcass weight with a highly significant difference being recorded in dressing percent between the two groups. The weight and yield of edible and inedible offals showed a linear increase with age. The measurements of neck, shank, chest girth, gigot length and gigot width reflected on the carcass weights and dressing yields of emu carcass. Of the seven wholesale cuts (neck, rib, breast, drumstick, thigh, loin and rump) obtained, drumstick and thigh were observed to be the most lean portions. Highly significant (P<0.01) difference was noticed in the meat: bone ratio between the two groups. There was no consistent effect of age on pH obtained and no significant difference was observed between the two age groups (15 and 18 months). The water holding capacity decreased as age advanced and with increase in storage periods. There was highly significant difference in fiber diameter and sarcomere length of emu meat between age groups and storage periods for both age groups. Drip and Cooking loss values were higher in the 18 months old group. \r\n','Emu meat, Carcass characteristics, Carcass measurements, Carcass Yield, pH, WHC, ERV, Fibre diameter, Sarcomere Length, Drip loss and Cooking loss','Despite an increase in the dressing yields with age, the meat: bone ratio was found to influence the age of selection for marketing of birds for meat purpose, as there was increased fat deposition reported in the older age groups (18 months old). Emu meat has similarities both with poultry and red meats. The postmortem changes, viz., time required to reach ultimate pH and postmortem proteolysis (aging), in emu meat is very rapid like in other poultry meats. On the other hand, the color and texture characteristics are similar to red meats (Naveena, 2012).\r\nThus, the comparative analysis of the two age groups, gives a clear indication that the 15 month age group birds are more suitable for meat purpose. \r\n','-','Ramani R., P. Tensingh Gnanaraj, V. Appa Rao, R. Narendra Babu and Robinson J.J. Abraham (2023). Influence of Age on the Carcass characteristics, Carcass Measurements and Physico-chemical Qualities of Emu meat in Chiller Storage. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 15(4): 613-619.'),(6536,'156','Morphological and Molecular Evaluation of Potential Indigenous Grain Amaranth (Amaranthus hypochondriacus L.) Genotypes of India','R.S. Solanki, N.N. Prajapati, D.P. Joshi, K.K. Tiwari and P.M. Rahevar','Morphological-and-Molecular-Evaluation-of-Potential-Indigenous-Grain-Amaranth-(Amaranthus-hypochondriacus-L.)-Genotypes-of-India-RS-Solanki-104.pdf','',1,'The presence of genetic variation and its maintenance are essential components in plant breeding. Considering these, ten phenotypic characters, one biochemical component and seven microsatellite primers were employed to investigate the genetic diversity in forty-six grain amaranth genotypes. The values of GCV were lower than that of PCV for each individual character under investigation. Seed yield plant-1 (g) demonstrated a strong genotypic level association with days to flowering, leaf area plant-1(cm2), length of inflorescence (cm), plant height (cm) and harvest index (%). The path coefficient study revealed that harvest index (%) had the strongest direct positive impact on seed yield plant-1 (g). Seven ISSR primers resulted in a total of 46 DNA amplicons, from which 40 were polymorphic. The data obtained from all markers and related amplicons classified the genotypes into six UPGMA based clusters. Among the grain amaranth genotypes RGA-16 and RGA-17 evident maximum similarity; while the genotypes BGA-10 and BGA-4-9 shown minimum similarity on the basis of Jaccard’s co-efficient result. Breeding of new cultivar using this varieties will helpful in the crop improvement programmes. The results of the present investigation concluded that to obtain actual genetic diversity, the molecular and morphological markers should be used in tandem.','DNA amplicons, Genetic variation, Grain amaranth, ISSR, Path co-efficient','While imposing selection for genetic improvement of grain amaranth, due weightage should be given on days to flowering, length of inflorescence (cm), leaf area plant-1(cm2) plant height (cm) and harvest index (%). Also, ISSR markers used in this study appeared to be worthy for the molecular assessment and evaluating the genetic relationship among the genotypes of grain amaranth.','-','R.S. Solanki, N.N. Prajapati, D.P. Joshi, K.K. Tiwari and P.M. Rahevar (2023). Morphological and Molecular Evaluation of Potential Indigenous Grain Amaranth (Amaranthus hypochondriacus L.) Genotypes of India. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 15(4): 620-625.'),(6537,'156','In vitro Antimicrobial Activity of Leaf and Rhizome Extracts of Hedychium flavescens','Anandi A.A., Francis S., Britto S.J. and Gideon V.A.','In-vitro-Antimicrobial-Activity-of-Leaf-and-Rhizome-Extracts-of-Hedychium-flavescens-Anandi AA-105.pdf','',1,'Hedychium flavescens or yellow ginger has innumerable medicinal uses in folk medicine mostly for the treatment of respiratory, skin, digestive, bone and joint diseases. We are reporting for the first time the antibacterial and antifungal activities of chloroform, acetone, methanol and aqueous extracts from the leaves and rhizomes of H. flavescens. Antimicrobial drugs are associated with side effects like hives, gastrointestinal effects, fatigue, secondary infections and may also lead to antibiotic resistance. Some plants which are rich in a wide variety of secondary metabolites have traditionally been used as antimicrobial agents and they also show minimal to no side effects. In this study it was seen that the leaf extracts showed better antimicrobial activity than the rhizome extracts. The leaf extracts showed strong activity against Escherichia coli, Propionibacterium acnes, Streptococcus mutans, Streptococcus pyogenes, Aspergillus flavus, Aspergillus niger, Aspergillus tubigenesis and Sporothrix schenckii. The rhizome extract showed significant activity against Bacillus subtilis, Propionibacterium acnes, Pseudomonas aeruginosa, Aspergillus ustus, Cryptococcus neoformans and Sporothrix schenckii. The extracts showed significant inhibition against E. coli as well as P. aeruginosa, thus indicating their broad spectrum of activity. Acetone, chloroform and methanol extracts of both leaf and rhizome showed better results compared to the aqueous extract. This study proves that the leaf and rhizome extracts of H. flavescens have significant antimicrobial activity and can thus be used as an antimicrobial agent.','Hedychium flavescens, Antimicrobial , Antibacterial, Antifungal, Zingiberaceae, Medicinal plant','Antibiotics, the antidote to various bacterial infections, have greatly enhanced the quality of human life. But over the past few years, antibiotics have become less effective against certain diseases due to emergence of drug resistant bacteria. Besides some antibiotics can cause severe side effects. However, plant products have been used as powerful remedy against pathogenic microbes since ancient times. Therefore, antimicrobial screening of plant extracts and testing their antimicrobial capacity would lead to safer and effective antimicrobial drug discovery.\r\nEarlier studies on Hedychium flavescens have reported that the essential oil of the rhizomes had high content of monoterpene β-pinene and the oil showed strong activity against bacteria Salmonella typhi, Escherichia coli, Proteus vulgaris, Staphylococcus aureus and Bacillus subtilis and fungi Candida albicans and C. glabrata (Sabulal et al., 2007; Suksathan et al., 2013).\r\nIn our investigation, for the first time we have documented the in vitro antimicrobial activity of the leaf and rhizome extracts of Hedychium flavescens. This study proves that the leaf and rhizome extracts of H. flavescens have significant antimicrobial activity especially the acetone, chloroform and methanol extracts. The extracts showed significant inhibition against E. coli as well as P. aeruginosa thus indicating their broad spectrum of activity. This study thus reveals that H. flavescens may serve as a natural alternative source of medicine for the treatment of microbial infections. The bacteria and fungi used in this study typically cause respiratory, skin, digestive, bone and joint infections. On this account, this report validates the traditional use of Hedychium flavescens for the treatment of tonsillitis (Staples and Herbst 2005), bronchitis, throat swellings, chest congestion, cough, asthma, abdominal swellings, various skin infections (Singh and Sharma 2018), stomach ache (Nurainas et al., 2021), gastritis (Kom et al., 2018), infected nostrils and arthritis (Raphael and Madhavan 2013). \r\n','-','Anandi A.A., Francis S., Britto S.J. and Gideon V.A. (2023). In vitro Antimicrobial Activity of Leaf and Rhizome Extracts of Hedychium flavescens. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 15(4): 626-631.'),(6538,'157','Enabling Aquaculture Extension Strategy in Agricultural Technology Management Agency (ATMA), India','Nisha Elizabeth Joshua and S.N. Ojha','Enabling-Aquaculture-Extension-Strategy-in-Agricultural-Technology-Management-Agency-(ATMA),-India-Nisha-Elizabeth-Joshua-1.pdf','',1,'The strengthening of aquaculture extension systems can accelerate the scope of targeted fish production in India. Agricultural Technology Management Agency (ATMA) is implemented as a bottom down approach in several states in India and is designed to integrate extension activities across all line departments. With the inception of the convergence strategy of ATMA, there is a need to develop an enabling aquaculture extension strategy, and statistical tools like Factor analysis and Ordinal regression model were used to develop the strategy. Thus, a study was conducted in five best performing ATMA districts in Kerala that is located along the southwest coast of India and a total of 225 fish farmers were selected for this study. Variables chosen for this research study concentrated around four factors namely Line Department Convergent Extension Approach, Marketing Extension Approach, Elementary Extension and Commodity Specific Approach that represented Aquaculture extension and Information Communication Technology (ICT) or Media Facilitated Approach. The proposed strategy addresses to initiate with factor three, that is, Elementary Extension and Commodity Specific Approach, that deals with fish farming variables and then to branch out to the other mentioned factors. In order to raise the income from fish culture, the expenditure needs to be elevated and the fish farmers require particular support for fisheries from the developmental departments and such a parallel support should predominantly be extended to the pond owners too. The main challenge lied with identifying the target group associated with this study and with the data collection procedure with the subjects that were spread along five different districts in the state. In the end, suggestions have been made as to improve the income of aquaculture farmers through the four proposed aquaculture extension approaches.','Line Department Convergent Extension Approach, Marketing Extension Approach, Elementary Extension and Commodity Specific Approach, Media Facilitated Extension Approach','The factor analysis helps in understanding the factors and variables associated with increasing the income of fish farmers that further helps in manifesting the strategies required in aquaculture extension. The following six steps are suggested to build up a strategy for aquaculture extension. Firstly, the pond owners in our area may be identified, as they are likely to increase the income. Secondly, specific support in fisheries by ATMA should be extended to the pond owners identified, in the form of trainings, demonstrations, exposure visits, farmer-scientist interactions, rewards and incentives and any other innovative activities (SAMETI, Mizoram, 2017), as these activities have significantly increased the income of the fish farmers. The performance of all the selected farmers for such activities may be assessed and scored. Additionally, the increase in investment by the fish farmer and their corresponding increase in income may also be assessed. Thirdly, the best performing farmer can be made as Farmers Friend (FF) (Manage, 2014). Demonstrations and on-farm trials can be organized in consultation with local Farm Science Centres in the ponds of FFs. Funds can also be mobilized through the Fish Farmers Development Agency (FFDA) as a reward to increase their investment habit for getting more returns. The selected FFs, who are able to standardize the technology and who are able to explain their personal experience in fish farming methods to other farmers, may further be graduated as trainers in Farmers Field School (FFS). Extension professionals in consultation with such trainers may develop the syllabus for each FFS for its implementation, monitoring and evaluation. Fourthly, the issues related to fish marketing, need to be addressed (Jasbin and Radhika 2016), by organizing exposure visits of the farmers to different wholesalers and retailers, so that the network in the value chain can be strengthened. Fifthly, success stories in production and marketing can be documented (Searles et al., 2018). These literatures may help in developing extension material in print and electronic media that can be effectively used through ICT. For developing such literature, some educated fish farmers can be designated as FFs and rewarded accordingly. Sixthly, there is a need to integrate extension programmes across the line departments like, agriculture and livestock to address the factor one. All the line departments may join together to conduct awareness programme at the district level. They can also empower the FFs with the knowledge on agriculture, livestock and fisheries. Further, they can monitor and evaluate such multipurpose FFs and FFSs, to see their impact on farmers’ income.','-','Nisha Elizabeth Joshua and S.N. Ojha (2023). Enabling Aquaculture Extension Strategy in Agricultural Technology Management Agency (ATMA), India. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 15(5): 01-06.'),(6539,'157','Degradation of Keratin by Keratinase Enzyme Producing Bacillus zhangzhouensis using Insilico Protocols','Rajee T. and Selvamaleeswaran P.','Degradation-of-Keratin-by-Keratinase-Enzyme-Producing-Bacillus-zhangzhouensis-using-Insilico-Protocols-Rajee-T-2.pdf','',1,'The management of keratinous waste generated from different industries is becoming a major challenge across the world, especially in poultry farming. Therefore, there is a need for modern and eco-friendly approaches to disposing of waste products. Due to the environmental challenges of poultry farming, it is necessary to isolate microbial keratinase enzymes with high catalytic functions and identify its mechanisms. Therefore, in the present study, our goal was to identify the potential of keratinase producing isolates that degrade feathers containing keratin through docking studies. The protein structure was predicted using the 16srRNA gene sequence of Bacillus zhangzhouensis, and the keratin structure was also predicted with the Insilico method. Then, protein-protein docking studies are performed using an automated protein docking server and their 3D molecular binding interactions are discussed in detail. The overall results clearly show that the amino acids of the enzyme, keratinase efficiently bind at the active sites (motifs) of keratin. Despite these challenges, keratinase enzymes have been successfully used to reduce the levels of keratin in soil, making them a viable option for remediating the environment.','16sr RNA sequence, Bacillus zhangzhouensis, Keratin, Protein –Protein Docking','Keratin is abundantly found in nature, and the volume of keratin-rich waste keeps increasing each year. Keratinase plays an important role in the recycling of keratin and is hence used in different fields. Our protein-protein docking studies revealed that the keratinase enzyme of Bacillus zhangzhouensis binds well with the feather keratin protein of chicken and aids in the breakdown of disulfide bonds present in keratin. These Insilico results provide evidence that the enzyme of the bacterial sps is eligible for the degradation of keratin.','-','Rajee T. and Selvamaleeswaran P. (2023). Degradation of Keratin by Keratinase Enzyme Producing Bacillus zhangzhouensis using Insilico Protocols. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 15(5): 07-16.'),(6540,'157','Refractance Window Drying vis-à-vis Osmotic and Hot Air Drying of Indian Gooseberry based: Comparison of Quality Attribute and Microstructural Changes','Lalita, Saroj Kumar Giri and Aseeya Wahid','Refractance-Window-Drying-Osmotic-and-Hot-Air-Drying-of-Indian-Gooseberry-based-Comparison-of-Quality-Attribute-and-Microstructural-Changes-Lalita-3.pdf','',4,'Amla or Indian gooseberry is a medicinal fruit native to India with good commercial value. Due to high ascorbic acid and total polyphenols contents, amla is considered a good source of antioxidants. However, these constituents are sensitive to heat. In this investigation, the effect of refractance window (RW) drying, osmotic dehydration (OD) and hot air drying (HA) on retention of heat sensitive compounds and changes in microstructures of dehydrated amla slices were compared in order to find out the suitable drying technique for amla fruits. The RWD process retained significantly higher content (4-6 %) of heat sensitive compounds compared to OSD and HAD samples. The refractance window dried samples had also a smoother and uniform microstructure. Cell structures were formed in layers in OSD sample indicating case hardening, whereas extensive collapse in cell structure was observed in case of HAD sample. The RW drying is best suitable for preserving heat sensitive compound in aonla.','Amla, Ascorbic acid retention, Phenolic content, SEM','Drying is one of the most common techniques used for preserving amla, and various techniques like hot air drying, osmotic dehydration, solar drying, fluidized bed drying, freeze-drying, and oven drying have been explored for amla. Refractance window drying (RWD) is an alternative technique that is promising due to its ability to prevent thermal degradation of heat-sensitive nutritional constituents. RWD has potential for producing dried amla products with better retention of heat sensitive compounds with good nutritional properties compared to hot air drying and osmotic drying. Besides, maintaining nutritional qualities, the RW dried amla powder was more porous structure with better color retention. It can be recommended for dehydration of amla slices by RWD.','-','Lalita, Saroj Kumar Giri and Aseeya Wahid (2023). Refractance Window Drying vis-à-vis Osmotic and Hot Air Drying of Indian Gooseberry based: Comparison of Quality Attribute and Microstructural Changes. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 15(5): 17-20.'),(6541,'156','Enumeration of Lactic streptococci from Fermented Milk Products using Differential Medium','Gopal S., Yadav S., Ramachandra B. and Prabha R.','Enumeration-of-Lactic-Streptococci-from-Fermented-Milk-Products-using-Differential-Medium-Prabha-R-106.pdf','',1,'In order to formulate a single medium for the accurate enumeration of lactic streptococci in fermented milk products avoiding common microbial contaminants and to easily find the colonies an attempt has been made in this study. Market samples of curd, yoghurt probiotic drink and domestic curd samples were enumerated using formulated and readymade media like M17 for lactococci as well as Streptococcus thermophilus incubated in candle jar at 30ºC and 37ºC respectively for 48 h. The readymade media gave better recovery of viable cells of lactic streptococci. The incorporation of calcium propionate and sodium benzoate at 1.5 and 2 per cent each to M17 agar helped in control of both aerobic spore formers and yeasts. Yeast glucose agar with 0.05 per cent Bromocresol Purple (BCP) showed better viable counts of lactic streptococci. In order to reduce aerobic spore forming bacteria and yeasts, calcium propionate of 0.8 per cent and sodium benzoate of 1.2 per cent incorporation to yeast glucose agar with 0.05 per cent BCP led to formation of more than 8 log counts of purple colonies and staining of colony smear revealed presence of cocci in chains. The purple colonies when inoculated to sterile skim milk set the curd in 8 h with 0.65 per cent lactic acid on an average indicating the presence of lactic streptococci. The findings of the study led to development of selective medium for lactic streptococci with addition of calcium propionate of 0.8 per cent to avoid Bacillus spores and sodium benzoate of 1.2 per cent to inhibit yeast to yeast glucose agar medium which is considered as general purpose medium for lactic streptococci with 0.05 per cent BCP could be used one of the selective medium for the enumeration of lactic streptocci with formation of purple colonies.','Lactic streptococci, Yogurt, Candle jar, Aerobic spore formers, Yeast','The readymade medium for lactic streptococci M17 agar medium gave better results when compared to formulated medium. The formulated medium with inhibitory agents like calcium propionate (0.8 %) and sodium benzoate (1.2 %) helped to curb the common contaminants like aerobic bacterial spore formers and yeast, respectively in the fermented milk products. The calcium propionate and sodium benzoate along with pH indicator bromocrseol purple helped in proper expression of viable lactic streptococci inhibiting the common contaminants aerobic spore formers and yeast in fermented milks with differentiating purple colonies.','-','Gopal S., Yadav S., Ramachandra B. and Prabha R. (2023). Enumeration of Lactic streptococci from Fermented Milk Products using Differential Medium. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 15(4): 632-636.'),(6542,'156','First Report of Stem Fly Melanagromyza sojae (Zehntner) Infesting Black Gram (Vigna mungo L.) in India','N.P. Pathan, D.B. Sisodiya and B.L. Raghunandan','First-Report-of-Stem-Fly-Melanagromyza-sojae-(Zehntner)-Infesting-Black-Gram-(Vigna-mungo-L.)-in-India-BL-Raghunandan-107.pdf','',1,'The most severe pest, Melanagromyza sojae (Zehntner), severely damages crops at the seedling stage. The samples of black gram stem fly infestation came from the experimental plot set up at the Entomology Farm, B. A. College of Agriculture, Anand Agricultural University, Anand. The adult stem fly punctures the tissues of leaves with its ovipositor to lay its eggs. The first set of seedling leaves are favoured locations for oviposition and result in widespread tunnelling in young plants. Infested plants grow yellowish, stunted, and in severe situations, the pest completely destroys the crop as a result of the maggot feeding inside the stem after the egg hatches. If the injured plant lives, the damage will eventually show up in the older plants. When a plant is severely attacked, an infected leaf first hangs down before the plant begins to wilt and the leaves start to fall. The yield could be diminished if the stems crack. Finding an insect\'s species merely based on its molecular makeup is fairly challenging. In order to identify insect species, it is crucial to use a morphological key in addition to the molecular base. The species authentication and generation of DNA barcode for stem fly M. sojae infesting black gram was carried out through molecular characterization. Phylogeny analysis of stem fly AAU voucher specimen with the sequence of M. sojae obtained from NCBI database revealed the significant similarity with one specimen of M. sojae viz. NCBI accession no. MF441483.The identification and verification of the specimen as a stem fly, M. sojae infesting black gram, appears to be supported by the detailed molecular characterization of Cytochrome Oxidase subunit I (COXI). In India, this is the first report citing M. sojae as stem fly infesting black gram.','Stem fly, Black gram, Melanagromyza sojae, tunneling and COXI','The findings of morphological and molecular characterization studies confirms the species as M. sojae and this is the first confirmed report of the stem fly, Melanagromyza sojae (Zehntner) (Diptera: Agromyzidae) infesting black gram in Gujarat, India. The extensive molecular characterization of Cytochrome Oxidase subunit I (COXI) apparently supports the identification and authentication of the specimen as stem fly, M. sojae. In India, this is the first report citing M. sojae as stem fly infesting black gram. Present days, Melanagromyza sojae is becoming a major pest of several bean crops. Its management should start shortly after germination since, being a dipteran pest, it can cause significant damage to crops before the stems of the plants harden. Therefore, future management approaches should concentrate on the insect\'s aforementioned vulnerable point.','-','N.P. Pathan, D. B. Sisodiya and B.L. Raghunandan (2023). First Report of Stem Fly Melanagromyza sojae (Zehntner) Infesting Black Gram (Vigna mungo L.) in India. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 15(4): 637-642.'),(6543,'156','The Budgetary Analysis of Vermicompost Production in College Farm, College of Agriculture, Rajendranagar, PJTSAU','P. Satish, S.A. Hussain, Seema and Shreedevi Jinnur','The-Budgetary-Analysis-of-Vermicompost-Production-in-College-Farm,-College-of-Agriculture,-Rajendranagar,-PJTSAU-Shreedevi-Jinnur-108.pdf','',1,'Vermicomposting is the process of producing compost by utilizing earthworms to turn the organic waste into high-quality compost. Vermicompost improves the physical, chemical and biological properties of the soil as well contribute to soil conditioning. The present study on budgetary analysis of vermicompost production was carried out during 2021 in Hyderabad district of Telangana. The study revealed that the total cost of production of vermicompost per annum was Rs. 7,25,805. The total revenue earned per year was Rs. 10,22,400 and Rs. 16,74,000 at PJTSAU and market prices respectively. Net returns and B: C ratio values indicated that the vermicompost production unit was economically viable at both the prices. Few challenges faced during vermicompost production were scarcity of water in summer and death of earthworms due to adverse conditions. Intensive labour requirement was also an important challenge.','Vermicompost, vermiwash, vermiculture, college farm, PJTSAU','The vermicompost unit under evaluation was established in 2019. It consists of 2 sheds with 10 beds each. Total fixed capital required for establishment of the unit was recokened at Rs.17,34,205. Total cost of production of vermicompost per annum was Rs. 7,25,805, while the total revenue obtained per year summed up to Rs. 10,22,400 and Rs. 16,74,000 at PJTSAU and market prices respectively. The BCR2 were 1.4 and 2.3 at PJTSAU and market prices respectively. Observing the values of Net returns and B: C ratio, economically viability of the vermicompost unit can be confirmed. Hence it can be concluded that vermicompost production provides net reasonable returns to farmers.','-','P. Satish, S.A. Hussain, Seema and Shreedevi Jinnur (2023). The Budgetary Analysis of Vermicompost Production in College Farm, College of Agriculture, Rajendranagar, PJTSAU. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 15(4): 643-648.'),(6544,'156','Kinetics of Post-harvest Quality Changes and Shelf Life Evaluation of Vegetable Amaranth Stored in Solar Refrigerated and Evaporative Cooled Structure','Priyanka Sharad Mahangade and Indra Mani','Kinetics-of-Post-harvest-Quality-Changes-and-Shelf-Life-Evaluation-of-Vegetable-Amaranth-Stored-in-Solar-Refrigerated-and-Evaporative-Cooled-Structure-Priyanka-Sharad-Mahangade-109.pdf','',1,'Solar refrigerated and evaporative cooled (SREC) storage structure was developed to provide on-farm, cold storage facility for smallholder farmers. The study was conducted to study the kinetics of post-harvest quality changes and shelf life evaluation of vegetable amaranth stored in solar refrigerated and evaporative cooled structure. In ambient condition (UL), temperatures varied between 22- 42°C, in SREC temperature ranged from 6 to 20°C, with relative humidity of 85-100%. After end of the storage period, weight loss, leaf fall, chlorophyll loss and leaf yellowing of amaranth leaves were higher in EC and UL conditions compared to SREC and refrigerated storage. The kinetics of stored product in an evaporative cooled structure is specific to the particular system and product being studied. It is essential to consider the unique characteristics of each storage system. In this Study, fractional kinetics model was used to predict the shelf life of amaranth stored under SREC, EC, REF and ambient storage condition. The study of kinetics of stored product in an evaporative cooled structure offers valuable insights into shelf life prediction.','Post harvest quality, shelf life, degradation kinetics, evaporative cooled, storage','This study showed that the rate of senescence was faster in uncooled laboratory (UL) i.e. ambient condition and evaporatively cooled (EC) store as compared to solar refrigerated evaporative cooled (SREC) structure and refrigerator. An innovative off-grid batteryless SREC mesh fabric structure preserved the perishable agricultural commodities in term of quality parameters such visual appearance, weight loss, leaf fall, yellowness and total chlorophyll content comparatively better than EC and UL storage conditions. In comparison to vegetable amaranth stored at ambient condition, the amaranth stored in the SREC and REF remained marketable for an extra 3-5 days. Fractional kinetics model used in this study provides a tool to predict the shelf life of amaranth stored in different storage structures as function of time in days with respect to weight loss and chlorophyll content degradation. These models allow for the prediction of the remaining shelf life of vegetable amaranth stored in SREC, EC, REF and UL storage conditions. Essentially, it will contribute to the main goal of reduction in overall postharvest losses in vegetables by efficient post-harvest management.','-','Priyanka Sharad Mahangade and Indra Mani (2023). Kinetics of Post-harvest Quality Changes and Shelf Life Evaluation of Vegetable Amaranth Stored in Solar Refrigerated and Evaporative Cooled Structure. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 15(4): 649-656.'),(6545,'156','Staurochilus ramosus (Lindl.) Seidenf. (Orchidaceae), a Rare Orchid for Tripura State, India','S.P. Panda, R.K. Nayak, Anuradha Pradhan, Chinmayee Sahoo and H.N. Subudhi','Staurochilus-ramosus-(Lindl.)-Seidenf.-(Orchidaceae),-a--Rare-Orchid--for-Tripura-State,-India-H.N.-110.pdf','',1,'Orchid s is very important group of plant having export value. Tripurastate is very rich and diverse in orchid flora due to its congenial climate. During exploration in Tripura state, Staurochilus ramosus (Lindl.) Seidenf. was collected and identified with modern flora. The present paper deals with correct nomenclature, phytography, distribution, ecology etc of this rare orchid.','Staurochilus ramosa, Rareorchid, Tripura','As this orchid is rare to Tripura state, conservation \r\nand evaluation should be taken up on priority.\r\n','-','S.P. Panda, R.K.Nayak, Anuradha Pradhan, Chinmayee Sahoo and H.N. Subudhi (2023). Staurochilus ramosus (Lindl.) Seidenf. (Orchidaceae), a Rare Orchids for Tripura State, India. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 15(4): 657-659.'),(6546,'156','An Insilico Study of Stigmasterol Glucoside for Hypolipidemic Activity','Anant Kumar Patel and Nandu Rangnath Kayande','An-Insilico-Study-of-Stigmasterol-Glucoside-for-Hypolipidemic-Activity-Anant-Kumar-Patel-111.pdf','',1,'Hyperlipidemia is a well-known indicator of cardiovascular disease risk. Herbal treatment for hyperlipidemia is widely used. Direct trials in animals and people to check the effectiveness of herbal therapies for dyslipidemia, on the other hand, involve ethical difficulties. Insilico research is used to overcome this challenge. One of the key advantages of in silico studies is that they can be used to predict the effects of different drugs and interventions on lipid metabolism, without the need for costly and time-consuming experiments. For example, in silico studies can be used to predict the binding affinity of different drugs to specific lipid targets, as well as their potential side effects and toxicity. In silico studies can be used to identify new drug targets and develop novel therapies for lipid disorders. By analyzing the structure and function of lipid-related proteins and enzymes, researchers can identify potential drug targets and design new drugs that specifically target these molecules. In silico studies have become an essential tool in the field of lipid disorders, providing valuable insights into the molecular mechanisms underlying these disorders and helping to develop new and more effective treatments for these conditions. The purpose of this research is to use molecular docking to assess the efficacy of Stigmasterol glucoside towards dyslipidemia. After examining several scholarly articles, stigmasterol glucoside was chosen as the ligand. The PubChem database was used to acquire a molecular structure file. The Protein Data Bank was used to get the target\'s crystal structure. All linked components as well as solvent molecules were removed from the protein molecule. The Biovia Discovery software was used to identify active binding sites. The PyRx program was used to conduct a molecular docking study with Stigmasterol glucoside against HMG-CoA reductase. According to a molecular docking research, stigmasterol glucoside binds to the HMG-CoA reductase receptor with a stronger affinity than atorvastatin. It is possible to infer that Stigmasterol glucoside seems to have the ability to function like a hypolipidemic agent.','Stigmasteryl 3-beta-D-glucoside, Molecular Docking, Plant Compound, HMG-CoA Reductase, Hypolipidemic Agent, Lipid, Heart Disease','Hyperlipidemia is a serious issue right now. Traditional therapies may have negative side effects. It is generally established that reducing low-density lipoproteins is associated with a decreased death rate from cardiovascular disease. Nonetheless, certain herbs can be beneficial for those who have the aforementioned illnesses. The ability of plants to lower hyperlipidemia is essential for lowering atherosclerosis. As a result, demand for natural lipid-lowering treatments is rising. Herbal medicines\' bioactive ingredients could be able to regulate the complex interventions in lipid metabolism. The key conclusions point to good uses for these medications in a range of patient populations. The bioactive components in herbal medications are also often harmless and well-tolerated. Overall, the use of herbal molecules to treat hyperlipidemia offers a potential alternative to statins that may be safer and provide additional health benefits. However, further research is needed to fully understand the mechanisms behind the lipid-lowering effects of these molecules and to determine their optimal use in clinical practice.','-','Anant Kumar Patel and Nandu Rangnath Kayande (2023). An Insilico Study of Stigmasterol Glucoside for Hypolipidemic Activity. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 15(4): 660-667.'),(6547,'156','Exploration of Native Isolates of Metarhizium rileyi (Farlow) Samson (Ascomycetes: Hypocreales) in Maize','Mamatha M., Arunkumar Hosamani, Sowmya E., Hanchinal S.G., Vijaykumar N. Ghante and Aswathanarayana D.S.\r\n','Exploration of Native Isolates of Metarhizium rileyi (Farlow) Samson (Ascomycetes Hypocreales) in Maize-Mamatha M-112.pdf','',1,'Metarhizium rileyi (Farlow) Samson is an important entomopathogenic fungus of more than 30 species of Lepidoptera larvae. In India, the commercial biopesticides have been suggested against different insect pests on different crops, but their application shown only a decreased efficiency credited to differences in susceptibility of target pests or non-adaptability to Indian agro-climatic conditions, and another challenging issue is non availability of region specific entomopathogenic strains. Therefore, there is a need to isolate location-specific biopesticide strains to increase the efficacy of such biopesticides for insect pest management. This study aimed to explore the new isolates of the entomopathogenic fungus, M. rileyi species across the major cropping ecosystems of Raichur and Koppal districts of kalyana Karnataka and we found consistant growth of M. rileyi throughout the year.\r\nFrom the survey data in Raichur district the highest number of fall armyworm (15.33/m2) cadavers were recorded at UAS, campus Raichur with 51.11 per cent incidence and in Koppal district at Gondbal village 49.25 per cent natural incidence have been recorded. Pearson’s correlation studies showed significantly positive correlation with relative humidity, minimum temperature and maximum wind speed. These isolates (UASRBC Mr-3 and UASRBC Mr-15) and its concentrations were evaluated on third instar larvae of S. frugiperda with the standard reference strain NrSf-1 from NBAIR. NrSf-1 recorded significantly highest per cent mortality (87.78 %) at 1 × 1010 spores per ml of concentration which was on par with Mr-3 (86.67 %) whereas, Mr-15 recorded 80 per cent mortality at 1 × 1010 concentration per ml.\r\nSurvey data indicated that natural incidence was highest from July second fortnight to December first fortnight. Later the infection rate gradually reduced with the decrease of precipitation, relative humidity and increase in temperature. Isolate UASRBC Mr-3 was more virulent with 86.67 per cent mortality which is on par with NBAIR isolate NrSf-1 with 80.66 per cent mortality against S. frugiperda, These isolate should be formulated as a myco-insecticide and tested under field conditions in further studies.\r\n','Metarhizium rileyi, Exploration, Spodoptera frugiperda, virulent','In Raichur district the survey was conducted to record the natural incidence of M. rileyi in maize crop. Highest number of fall armyworm (15.33/m2) cadavers were recorded at UAS, campus Raichur with 51.11 per cent incidence. Whereas in Koppal highest S. frugiperda cadavers (11.0/m2) were noticed in Gondbal village with 49.25 per cent natural incidence. \r\nPearson’s correlation studies showed that during 2020-21 the natural infection was significantly positive for minimum temperature, rainfall and maximum wind speed and there was negative correlation with maximum temperature for natural infection in Raichur and Koppal. Isolate UASRBC Mr-3 was more virulent with 86.67 per cent mortality which is on par with NBAIR isolate NrSf-1 with 80.66 per cent mortality against S. frugiperda UASRBC Mr-3 isolate should be formulated as a myco-insecticide and tested under field conditions in further studies. From results showed that the EPF M. rileyi isolates were the most pathogenic to S. frugiperda larvae. The results presented in this study increase the knowledge about natural zoonosis of M. rileyi on different lepidopteran pests and open new avenues for studies regarding the virulence against S. frugiperda larvae.\r\n','-','Mamatha M., Arunkumar Hosamani, Sowmya E., Hanchinal S.G., Vijaykumar N. Ghante and Aswathanarayana D.S. (2023). Exploration of Native Isolates of Metarhizium rileyi (Farlow) Samson (Ascomycetes: Hypocreales) in Maize. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 15(4): 668-677.'),(6548,'156','The Correlation between KCNJ11 rs5215 Gene Polymorphism and Type 2 Diabetes Mellitus in Northern Population','Shubhangi Chaturvedi, Shivangi Singh, Pooja and Dinesh Raj Modi','The-Correlation-between-KCNJ11-rs5215-Gene-Polymorphism-and-Type-2-Diabetes-Mellitus-in-Northern-Population-Shubhangi-Chaturvedi-113.pdf','',1,'Type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM) is known as a multifactorial disease that develops as a result of the interplay between various susceptibility genes and environmental components. KCNJ11 gene codes for the voltage-gated potassium channels that are responsible for glucose-stimulating insulin release. The major challenge faced during the study is the collection of samples from patients and the greater number of samples has to be processed to make the significance of this study more fruitful. The Aim of this study is to find the association between KCNJ11 gene rs5215 polymorphism and T2DM in the North Indian Population. This is a case- control study. The KCNJ11 associated rs5215 polymorphism has been genotyped using Restriction Fragment Length Polymorphism (RFLP) technique. The incidence of K allele was founded more in the group of patient, and the prevalence of EK genotype was founded more in the control group of individuals. The recessive model genotype TT was founded to be remarkably associated with the occurrence of T2DM. This study conveyed the association of KCNJ11 gene polymorphism rs5215 as a possible reason to cause T2DM.','KCNJ11, RFLP, Polymorphism, Type 2 Diabetes mellitus, Potassium channel, North India','The research found a link between type 2 diabetes mellitus and the KCNJ11 gene\'s rs5215 polymorphism in a sample of the North Indian Population. This research bolsters the pathophysiology of T2DM\'s KCNJ11 rs5215 polymorphism. During the work of this study collection of samples from Diabetic patients has been a major challenge, but we counsel patients about the study and then take their consent to take blood samples. The important contribution has been made by us is to increase the sample size which increased the relevance of this study. Bigger investigations need to be conducted to verify this finding. ','-','Shubhangi Chaturvedi, Shivangi Singh, Pooja and Dinesh Raj Modi (2023). The Correlation between KCNJ11 rs5215 Gene Polymorphism and Type 2 Diabetes Mellitus in Northern Population. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 15(4): 678-683.'),(6549,'156','Effect of Drying on Leutin Concentration of Noni (Morinda citrifolia L.) Leaves','Tharani S., Anitha Chandran C. and Suma Divakar','Effect-of-Drying-on-Leutin-Concentration-of-Noni-(Morinda-citrifolia-L.)-Leaves-Tharani-S-114.pdf','',1,'Leutin is a plant-derived compound and non-vitamin A carotenoid. Leutin cannot be synthesised by humans and hence obtained by the ingestion of foods viz., fruits and vegetables. It possesses multiple protective properties like anti-cancer, anti-inflammation, and hepatoprotection and also helps in the prevention of age-related maculopathy, cardiovascular diseases, diabetes etc. Leutin content in fresh noni leaves and the leaves dried after three different treatments viz plain dried without treatment, steam blanched and hot water blanched were assessed. For this study, availability and procurement of noni leaves was challenging since only tender leaves were used. Leutin concentration could vary due to several factors like variety, stage of maturity, growing climatic conditions etc. In this study, two different solvents viz acetone and butanol were used for extraction. The study shows drying has a positive effect on the leutin concentration of noni leaves specifically in acetone than butanol extraction. the leutin concentration increased in acetone extraction from 0.067 μg/g to 0.096 μg/g from zeroth hour to ninth hour respectively than other treatments.','Leutin, noni leaves, fresh, Pretreatment, dried, acetone, butanol','The study concludes that drying of noni leaves by different prior treatment, particularly steam blanched has positive effect on the leutin concentration than that of other treatments and fresh noni leaves. The solvent used for extraction plays a major role in the yield obtained. Hence it is suggested that the selection of appropriate method of treatment and solvent for extraction is important for further study of this compound.','-','Tharani S., Anitha Chandran C. and Suma Divakar (2023). Effect of Drying on Leutin Concentration of Noni (Morinda citrifolia L.) Leaves. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 15(4): 684-687.'),(6550,'156','Identification of the Therapeutic Protein Targets of 2-Hydroxydicarboxylic Acid and 3D Analysis using Insilico Protocols','Maithreyee S., Prabha V. and Balaji Munivelan','Identification-of-the-Therapeutic-Protein-Targets-of-2-Hydroxydicarboxylic-Acid-and-3D-Analysis-using-Insilico-Protocols-Maithreyee S-115.pdf','',1,'The aim of the Insilico study is to efficiently bind the chemical compound,2-hydroxydicarboxylic acid with the respective protein receptor/targets using Insilico tools. 2-hydroxydicarboxylic acid acts as a food acidity regulator and a fundamental metabolite. The primary methodology focuses on the analysis of the 2D structure of hydroxydicarboxylic acid along with its molecular properties. Bioactivity test and 3D structure prediction are also done. In the second step, the protein targets are bound to the chemical molecule at its active site using advanced Insilico target prediction tool. The results obtained by the study clearly elucidate that based on the various targets identified, the derivatives of 2-hydroxydicarboxylic acid can be discovered for various diseases. The best target molecules which efficiently bind with 2-hydroxydicarboxylic acid were viewed in 3D and molecular dynamics view. The targets identified for this chemical molecule could potentially be used for future drug designing and discovery studies.','2-hydroxydicarboxylic acid, target prediction, 3D structure prediction','In pharmaceutical industries, the identification of human diseases targets which can efficiently bind with chemical compounds is a challenge. Overall, our results clearly show that Malic acid can be efficiently used to correct ion-conducting channel issues. Hence, we conclude that Malic acid acts as a potential therapeutic agent for Epilepsy disorder associated to CHRNA7 gene. ','-','Maithreyee S., Prabha V. and Balaji Munivelan (2023). Identification of the Therapeutic Protein Targets of 2-Hydroxydicarboxylic Acid and 3D Analysis using Insilico Protocols. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 15(4): 688-693.'),(6551,'156','Qualitative and Quantitative Phytochemical Screening and Antioxidant Potential of different extracts of Opuntia ficus indica Fruits','Pooja Sharma and Nainesh Modi','Qualitative-and-Quantitative-Phytochemical-Screening-and-Antioxidant-Potential-of-different-extracts-of-Opuntia-ficus-indica-Fruits-Nainesh-Modi-116.pdf','',1,'The fruits of Opuntia ficus indica or prickly pear belongs to the family Cactaceae. The fruit is high in vitamin C, as well as other nutrients like magnesium, calcium, and potassium. In addition to its culinary uses, prickly pear fruit is also used in traditional medicine to treat a variety of ailments, such as wounds, inflammation, and high blood sugar. In a world facing various health problems and ailments, there is a growing need for research to uncover the potential benefits of natural resources. Oxidative stress-related disorders, such as cardiovascular diseases, neurodegenerative disorders, and cancer, pose significant health challenges worldwide. However, it is important to note that more research is needed to fully understand the potential health benefits and vital bioactive content of prickly pear fruit. Therefore, the current study aimed at investigating the quantitative phytochemical analysis of phenols, flavonoids, alkaloids, and glycosides in different extracts of fruits from the Opuntia ficus indica plant. The results showed that the aqueous extract had the highest phenolic content, while the hexane extract had the highest flavonoid content. The fruit was found to have a low alkaloid content. The glycoside content varied depending on the extract used, with the aqueous and hexane extracts having the highest values. Research on natural compounds like the phenols, flavonoids, and glycosides found in prickly pear fruit can provide insights into their antioxidant properties and their potential to mitigate oxidative stress, offering promising avenues for developing preventive and therapeutic interventions for these disorders.','Opuntia ficus indica, fruits, antioxidant, phenol, flavonoid, glycosides, cactus','The study analyzed the total phenolic, flavonoid, alkaloid, tannin and glycoside content of Opuntia ficus-indica fruit extracts. The results showed that the aqueous extract had the highest total phenolic content, while the hexane extract had the highest total flavonoid content. The total alkaloid content in Opuntia ficus-indica fruit powder was found to be 3.7%, which is comparatively lower than other plants. However, the fruit extracts showed high glycoside content. Phenolic compounds and flavonoids have strong antioxidant activity, while glycosides have therapeutic potential. Although the current study focused on phenols, flavonoids, alkaloids, and glycosides, there are many other bioactive compounds present in Opuntia ficus indica fruits that have not been fully characterized. Future studies could explore the presence and potential health benefits of other compounds such as betalains, carotenoids, and vitamins. While the present study provides evidence for the potential health benefits of Opuntia ficus indica fruits, more research is needed to fully understand the mechanisms behind these effects. ','-','Pooja Sharma and Nainesh Modi (2023). Qualitative and Quantitative Phytochemical Screening and Antioxidant Potential of different extracts of Opuntia ficus indica Fruits. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 15(4): 694-701.'),(6552,'156','Bio Management of Major Seed Borne Diseases in Sesame','Burri Rachel* and K.N. Gupta','Bio-Management-of-Major-Seed-Borne-Diseases-in-Sesame-Burri-Rachel-117.pdf','',1,'Among the seed borne diseases of sesame, Root and stem rot caused by Macrophomina phaseolina, Alternaria leaf spot caused by Alternaria sesami and Cercospora leaf spot caused by Cercospora sesame are the major destructive diseases. The yield loss due to these diseases was around 57% at about 40% disease incidence. In this study, management of these diseases was done by using bio-agents like Pseudomonas spp. and Trichoderma spp. And it was revealed that seed treatment with a combination of two bio agents i.e., Seed treatment with Trichoderma viride @ 10 g/kg of seed + Pseudomonas fluorescens @ 10 g/kg of seed, furrow application of enriched Trichoderma viride (2.5 kg Trichoderma viride + 100 kg vermicompost) @ 250 kg/ha followed by two sprays of Nimbecidine @ 10ml/l at thinning, flowering and spray of Sulphur @ 2g/l at capsule stage, resulted in less disease incidence and more seed yield under field conditions.','Trichoderma viride, Pseudomonas fluorescens, seed borne diseases','In the bio management of seed borne diseases like Root and stem rot, Alternaria leaf blight and Cercospora leaf spot, Among all the treatments, the seed treatment with two different bio agents like Trichoderma vride and Pseudomonas flourescens has shown minimum incidence disease with maximum yield i.e., T6 (Seed treatment with Trichoderma viride @ 10 g/kg of seed + Pseudomonas fluorescens @ 10 g/kg of seed, furrow application of enriched Trichoderma viride (2.5 kg Trichoderma viride + 100 kg vermicompost) @ 250 kg/ha followed by two sprays of Nimbecidine @ 10ml/l at thinning, flowering and spray of Sulphur @ 2g/l at capsule stage) has recorded minimum disease incidence against Root and stem rot (8.33%) and minimum per cent disease index (PDI) for Alternaria leaf spot (5.33%) and Cercospora leaf spot (5.66%) and gave the maximum yield of 615 kg/ ha.\r\nThe maximum disease incidence of 43.33% for Root and stem rot and maximum per cent disease index of 25.33% for Alternaria leaf blight and 19.00% for Cercospora leaf spot with minimum yield of 260 kg/ ha was identified in the control.\r\n','-','Burri Rachel and K.N. Gupta (2023). Bio Management of Major Seed Borne Diseases in Sesame. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 15(4): 702-705.'),(6553,'156','Maternal and Perinatal Outcomes in Oligohydramnios','Ujala Joshi, Parvesh Saini and Reena Sood','Maternal-and-Perinatal-Outcomes-in-Oligohydramnios-Ujala-Joshi-118.pdf','',1,'Amniotic fluid volume is the core component of a healthy pregnancy and decreased amount compared to gestational age is oligohydramnios. Evaluation of it provides important information about structural and functional integrity of fetus and is predictive of pregnancy outcome. In present study the aim to assess the effect of oligohydramnios on maternal and perinatal outcomes. A prospective study design was adopted to collect data from pregnant women. Each was interviewed to obtain socio- demographic and clinical data. Ultrasonography reports were noted for AFI estimation and were observed for the maternal and perinatal outcomes after delivery. Out of 500 pregnant women 45.6 % lies between 26-30 years of age, 91.6 %, 42.2%, 51.2% were non-working, primigravida, nulliparous respectively. Various outcome measures recorded were, gestational age at the time of delivery, Color of liquor amni, mode of delivery, birth weight, resuscitation required, NICU admission that were found to be statically significant. Oligohydramnios has deleterious effects on maternal and perinatal outcome, thus close monitoring of amniotic fluid volume in pregnancy will aid to avoid undesired maternal morbidity and enable prompt intervention to lower perinatal deaths and morbidity. ','Amniotic fluid index, oligohydramnios, maternal outcomes, fetal outcomes, amniotic fluid volume','The study reveals that oligohydramnios is a prevalent abnormality during antenatal period putting deleterious effects on maternal and perinatal outcome, giving a vital indication of close monitoring of amniotic fluid volume in pregnancy that will aid to avoid undesired maternal morbidity as preterm delivery, increased rates of operative inferences and on the flip side to enable prompt intervention to lower perinatal deaths and morbidity that includes low birth weight, resuscitation requirement, NICU admission. ','-','Ujala Joshi, Parvesh Saini and Reena Sood (2023). Maternal and Perinatal Outcomes in Oligohydramnios. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 15(4): 706-709.'),(6554,'156','Thymoquinone Attenuates Hematological and Biochemical Alterations Induced by Potassium Bromate Toxicity in Female Albino Mice, Mus musculus','Neetu Patel, Renu Shrivastava and Vinoy K. Shrivastava','Thymoquinone-Attenuates-Hematological-and-Biochemical-Alterations-Induced-by-Potassium-Bromate-Toxicity-in-Female-Albino-Mice,-Mus-musculus-Neetu-Patel-119.pdf','',1,'It has never been demonstrated that thymoquinone (TQ), the primary active component of the essential oil present in N. sativa seed, protects against the deterioration of blood indices brought on by potassium bromate (KBrO3). Consequently, the objective of this work was to examine Potential protective effects of TQ against KBrO3-induced biochemical and haematological changes in female albino mice. TQ\'s ability to protect female albino mice against KBrO3-induced haematological and biochemical changes was investigated in this work. We employed 24 mature, female albino mice (Mus musculus) in this investigation. For 60 days, they were separated six animals each, divided into four groups Control group (20 mg/kg b.w. dissolved in vehicle corn oil), the KBrO3 group (100 mg/kg b.w. dissolved in double distilled water), the KBrO3 + TQ group (100 mg/kg b.w. dissolved in double distilled water along with 20 mg/kg body weight dissolved in vehicle corn oil) and the TQ group (20 mg/kg b.w. dissolved in vehicle corn oil). Throughout this inquiry, blood metabolites were examined to see how KBrO3 affected several haematological, enzymatic, and oxidative stress indicators as well as glucose, cholesterol and lipid metabolism. In addition, we compared TQ\'s ability to counteract KBrO3 toxicity and lessen the disruption of serum homeostasis. We discovered in the present study that TQ was significantly enhanced the haematological parameters like total RBCs count (p≤0.001), WBCs total count (p≤0.001), and haemoglobin level (p≤0.001) along with SOD (p≤0.001), CAT (p≤0.01) and GPx (p≤0.01) and high density-lipoprotein HDL (p≤0.001), on the other hand TQ remarkably lowered the serum glucose (p≤0.001), cholesterol (p≤0.001), triglycerides (p≤0.001), and LDL (p≤0.001) and platelets count (p≤0.001) along with Aspartate aminotransferase (AST) (p≤0.001) Alanine aminotransferase (ALT) (p≤0.001), and Alkaline phosphatase (ALP) (p≤0.001), as compared to KBrO3 group. The findings show that TQ ca treat hematological, biochemical, and oxidative changes brought on by KBrO3 poisoning.','Potassium bromate, Thymoquinone, Hematology, Oxidative stress and Hepatic marker','It is clear that TQ ameliorated the toxic effect of Potassium bromate and suppressed the oxidative stress induced in mice through its antioxidant mechanism and overall significantly positive effect on the numerous parameters considered.','-','Neetu Patel, Renu Shrivastava and Vinoy K. Shrivastava (2023). Thymoquinone Attenuates Hematological and Biochemical Alterations Induced by Potassium Bromate Toxicity in Female Albino Mice, Mus musculus. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 15(4): 710-716.'),(6555,'156','Influence of Soil properties on Native Arbuscular Mycorrhizal Fungi and their Distribution in Soybean (Glycine max (L.) Merr.) Cultivation','R.D. Namdas and S.S. Kamble','Influence-of-Soil-properties-on-Native-Arbuscular-Mycorrhizal-Fungi-and-their-Distribution-in-Soybean-(Glycine-max-(L.)-Merr.)-Cultivation-RD-Namdas-120.pdf','',1,'Insufficient availability of comprehensive soil property data and the difficulty in establishing causality present significant impediments to researching the influence of soil properties on the incidence and distribution patterns of native arbuscular mycorrhizal fungi (AMF) associated with soybean (Glycine max (L.) Merr.). Furthermore, the intricate interrelationships between soil properties, spatial and temporal variabilities, and the taxonomic identification of native AMF species introduce additional complexities, hampering the comprehension of their associations and the formulation of practical strategies for promoting sustainable soybean cultivation.\r\nArbuscular mycorrhizal (AM) fungi are essential constituents of soil microbiota and exhibit interactions with other microorganisms in the rhizosphere, which is the region of influence of plant roots on microbial populations and other soil constituents. AM fungal interactions are influenced by general and annual fluctuations in addition to abiotic factors such as environmental and climatic conditions. This study aimed to evaluate the population dynamics of AM fungal spores in the rhizosphere soil of soybean crops in relation to physico-chemical properties. Soil and root samples were collected from three sites in the Satara district of Maharashtra State, India, and analyzed for AM spore numbers and physico-chemical properties. Results showed well-distributed AM fungal species with numbers ranging from 55 to 78 spores per 10 g of soil. A total of 28 AM fungal species representing four genera were isolated, with Glomus being the predominant genus represented by 13 species, followed by Gigaspora (4), Scutellispora (7), and Acaulospora (4). The quantity and type of AM spores found were affected by the variable soil profile, with alkaline soil attributed to an increase in the population of Glomus species.\r\n','AM Fungi, Soil properties, Glomus spp., Soybean, Soil Profile, Rhizosphere','Mycorrhiza is a mutualistic symbiotic association between fungi and plant roots. In this association, mycorrhizal fungi facilitate the uptake of nutrients, especially phosphorus, and enhance the growth of crop plants and trees. The present study demonstrates that the population of arbuscular mycorrhizal fungi (AMF) can be influenced by various factors, including soil properties. Specifically, soil properties can impact the occurrence and distribution of AMF in soil. These findings provide a basis for future research in the field of mycorrhiza.','-','R.D. Namdas and S.S. Kamble (2023). Influence of Soil properties on Native Arbuscular Mycorrhizal Fungi and their Distribution in Soybean (Glycine max (L.) Merr.) Cultivation. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 15(4): 717-721.'),(6556,'156','Identification of Chromosomal and Chromatid-type Alterations in Oral Cancer Patients in Tamil Nadu, India','M. Kavitha, D. Jayachandran, Harysh Winster Suresh Babu, Arul Narayanasamy and Balachandar Vellingiri','Identification-of-Chromosomal-and-Chromatid-type-Alterations-in-Oral-Cancer-Patients-in-Tamil-Nadu,-India-Kavitha-M-121.pdf','',1,'Oral based diseases were observed in nearly 3.5 billion people worldwide, according to the World Health Organisation. Oral Squamous Cell Carcinoma (OSCC) is one of the major oral based diseases in the Indian subcontinent. People who use chewing tobaccos and tobacco-based products are more susceptible to OSCC. The aim of the present study is to find out the chromosomal alterations in Oral cancer patients by using cytogenetic technique. \r\nTotally, 35 blood samples were collected from cancer Hospitals. Ethical clearance was obtained from the Institutional Ethics Committee board, VMSDC & Hospital. In the present study, we analysed the Chromosomal abnormalities by using trypsin G-Banding technique.\r\nWe observed various chromosomal-type and Chromatid-type alterations in Oral Cancer patients with the chromosome locations of 2q, 3q, 21q and X using the GTG banding technique. We observed higher degree of Chromosomal abnormalities in OSCC samples compared to controls. From this we conclude that the CA in 2q, 3q and 21q shows highly significant for the clinical application of OSCC patients. Though the study method is technically sensitive, further molecular studies with large sample size would greatly aid in diagnostic support as well as oral cancer management.\r\nThe chromosome and chromatid- type abnormalities found in OSCC patients showed the significance of its use in early diagnosis and disease management in OSCC with knowledge of its pathogenesis.\r\n','Oral squamous cell carcinoma (OSCC), Chromosomal abnormalities, trypsin G-Banding, Oncology','The chromosomal instability is hallmark of cancer and involved both in carcinogenesis and therapeutic response. They act as useful biomarkers and therapeutic target for novel and more effective cancer therapy. The CIN is also responsible for tumor evolution and act as a genomic source between the tumor and its microenvironment in the course of immune editing and evasion. The complex karyotype observed in OSCC might be due to the presence of genetic alterations associated with the development of immortal phenotype, together with spindle checkpoint and chromosome defects. The transformation of oral oncogenesis also includes promoter methylations and miRNA deregulations. Our study demonstrated higher degree of Chromosomal abnormalities in OSCC samples compared to controls. We conclude that the CA in 2q, 3q, and 21q shows highly significant for the clinical application of OSCC patients. Additional molecular studies are needed to confirm or elucidate these karyotype findings. Patients with OSCC are defined by unique genomic profiles that give rise to specific signatures based on this and similar precise genetic abnormalities, which may allow for personalized targeted treatment care. The association of CA with age, gender and risk habits substantiates the strongest association of tobacco in oral cancer progression. The incorporation of clinical findings, microscopic examination and molecular diagnostics will progress the ability to risk stratify people for the development of OSCC and change towards reducing the consequence of this aggressive disease. ','-','M. Kavitha, D. Jayachandran, Harysh Winster Suresh Babu, Arul Narayanasamy and Balachandar Vellingiri (2023). Identification of Chromosomal and Chromatid-type Alterations in Oral Cancer Patients in Tamil Nadu, India. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 15(4): 722-727.'),(6557,'156','Impact on the Study of Symbionts Associated in Lichen Assets with Research Productivity','Vishnu Raja Vijayakumar, Mohammad Abbas Liyakath Ali, Perachiselvi Udhayasuriyan, Balasubramani Rajan and Dhanasekaran Dharumadurai','Impact-on-the-Study-of-Symbionts-Associated-in-Lichen-Assets-with-Research-Productivity-Dhanasekaran-Dharumadurai-122.pdf','',1,'In forests, mountains, and other aquatic ecosystems, symbiotic microbes and their interactions in lichens are significant. The identification of lichens and isolation of actinobacteria from lichens are the various challenges of the study. A bibliographic analysis of lichens and their associated symbionts is scarcely reported. The biblioanalysis research in microbial communities related to lichen and their symbionts. The present study interconnects the research performance of symbionts associated with lichens from 1989 to 2022, based on parameters including a number of publications, citations, collaborations, type of communication, most preferred journals, papers, authorship pattern and highly productive authors. The study analyses 33 years (1989-2022) of publication data drawn from Web of Science citation database. As per the data collected, 10489 papers were published in 33 years with contributions from 31,939 authors in 1,645 journals. The United States has published the most articles (2367), followed by China (1630). Top most authors such as Bonfante P, Curie CR and Grube M. The best journal is New Phytologist and a total citation index of 24876. Lichens are important ecological indicators, and extensive study is needed to understand the role of symbionts associated with them. This research will provide prospective researchers with knowledge about leading contributors, most cited articles, and relevant journals and nations.','Scientometric, lichens, symbionts, word cloud and citation','It is the conviction of the researchers that this study stands as the most comprehensive scientometric and bibliometric analysis on symbionts associated in lichens. Study on researchers, institutions and nations on a particular field of study can better be done with the citation data based research, which helps to track the course of the research comprehensively by narrowing down the large amount of data. As this study has brought out the facts regarding the countries with the highest number of distributions, it implies the need for explorations from countries such as the United States, People\'s Republic of China, Germany, and citation based countries such as Brazil, Panama, Colombia, Costa Rica, and Uruguay. The most papers (330) were published in the journal \'New Phytologist,\' with 31939 authors and 317383 citations. The first three writers published over 271 records, with the author Bonfante P having the most with 95 records and 6775 citations. Citations and the paper\'s H-index are used to assess its quality. In the scientometric study, 10489 documents were recorded. The Chinese Academy of Sciences, People\'s Republic of China, issued highly regarded works. The first highly cited paper is “The role of root exudates in rhizosphere interations with plants and other organisms” by HP Bais, affiliated to Department of Biological Sciences, University of Delaware, Newark, DE, United States. This paper has a very high citation (2259) and was published in the year 2006. Lichens are important ecological indicators. Understand the role of symbionts associated in lichens, extensive study in this field is necessary, including publications, records, authors, citation index, language, nation, and institutions. This research will facilitate prospective researchers to have the required knowledge regarding the leading contributors, most cited articles, most relevant journals and nations that offer maximum focus on this particular field of study.','-','Vishnu Raja Vijayakumar, Mohammad Abbas Liyakath Ali, Perachiselvi Udhayasuriyan, Balasubramani Rajan and Dhanasekaran Dharumadurai (2023). Impact on the Study of Symbionts Associated in Lichen Assets with Research Productivity. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 15(4): 728-739.'),(6558,'156','Index to Assess the Impact of Weather based Agro-Advisory Services among the Cotton Growers of Telangana and Andhra Pradesh States','B. Srishailam, V. Sailaja, P. Ganesh Kumar, D. Subramanyam and Shaik Nafeez Umar','Index-to-Assess-the-Impact-of-Weather-based-Agro-Advisory-Services-among-the-Cotton-Growers-of-Telangana-and-Andhra-Pradesh-States-B-Srishailam-123.pdf','',1,'Weather plays a major role in determining the success and failure of crop production. Meanwhile, weather based agro-advisory services facilitates the farmers to plan and perform well in advance by providing accurate weather information. Thus, these services had significant impact in improving the livelihood of farmers by averting or minimizing the crop loss due to aberrant weather. As the farmers have to combat with climate change, in addition to several other production, technical and marketing constraints, provision of timely weather based agro-advisory services enable them to reduce yield losses. To understand this, the present study provides empirical evidence of the impact index for weather based agro-advisory services among its beneficiary cotton growers in Telangana and Andhra Pradesh. The study helps Government and Non-government institutions, policy makers, agricultural scientists, agricultural officers and State Department of Agriculture and Universities to understand the cotton growers’ attitude towards weather based agro-advisory services and its impact. The result of the present study helps the above-mentioned stakeholders to plan and formulate policy implications in the future for the farmer’s welfare. However, lack of standard index to assess the impact of weather based agro-advisory is a major hindrance in understanding the efficient utilization of agro advisories. Seventy-five statements were collected from available literatures, then edited and subjected to judges’ opinion. Based on which, 60 statements were selected to analyses the extent of differentiation between high and low group. Based on the highest ‘t’ value, a total of 50 statements were selected finally to develop the impact index. The reliability (0.862) and the validity of the scale was assessed to represent its precision and consistency. Thus, the developed impact index can be used to measure the impact of weather based agro-advisory services among the farmers beyond the study area with suitable modifications. ','Impact, Weather based agro-advisory services, Cotton growers, Scale construction, Agro-advisory services, Weather, Climate smart agriculture','Nowadays, a high pressure is exerted on the agriculture sector to increase the production for the growing population, but the challenge lies in the climate change. Despite of the various constraints faced by the farmers, climate change acts as the root cause of several other constraints. The impact index will be developed based the ten impact indicators that covers all aspects of the farming community. Based on the ten indicators the results shown that exactly three-fifth of the beneficiary cotton growers had medium level of impact of weather based agro-advisory services on beneficiary cotton growers (60%), followed by an equal percentage of them had low (20%) and high (20%) level of impact of weather based agro-advisory services on beneficiary cotton growers respectively.','-','B. Srishailam, V. Sailaja, P. Ganesh Kumar, D. Subramanyam and Shaik Nafeez Umar (2023). Index to Assess the Impact of Weather based Agro-Advisory Services among the Cotton Growers of Telangana and Andhra Pradesh States. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 15(4): 740-746.'),(6559,'156','Awareness of Digital Media by the Farm Women of Manipur','Priyanka Rajkumari, M. Prasuna, R. Geetha Reddy and Janaki Srinath','124-Awareness-of-Digital-Media-by-the-Farm-Women-of-Manipur-Priyanka-Rajkumari-124.pdf','',1,'The 1900s saw the beginning of the creation of various digital media, with radio and television serving as the first platforms for obtaining information through mass media using digitalized tools. Nowadays, many individuals have access to various digital platforms where they spend their free time, thanks to the advent of smartphones. The usage of digital technology is widespread, including areas such as marketing, advertising, and agriculture. Utilizing channels like social media, websites, apps, and web pages for marketing and advertising has become commonplace with recent developments. A study was conducted on the utilization of digital media to access information on recent developments in agriculture used by rural women in Manipur state. In this particular study, an ex-post facto research design was followed. A total of 60 respondents were selected from Thoubal district in Manipur state. The study found that the majority (48.33%) of the respondents fell into the middle age group. 51.67 percent of the respondents earned between 2,50,000 to 4,00,000 lakhs per annum. 40.00 percent of them had primary education, and 85.00 percent were married. 70.00 percent of the respondents had medium information-seeking behaviour. All the respondents utilized the M4AGRINEI portal. 85.83 percent of the respondents became aware of the portal through their friends, relatives, or neighbours. 85.00 percent of the respondents listened to radio programs, and 90.83 percent watched agricultural programs on television. None (100.00%) of the respondents had used any agricultural apps, although they had heard about them. They were less aware of other agriculture portals except for M4AGRINEI. The M4AGRINEI provided training and reliable information to the people of Manipur state. Digital media in agriculture helps extension workers reach information in remote areas and contributes to helping farm women resolve issues and engage in digital marketing. The major constraints faced by in this study were lack of infra-structured facilities, less awareness of agricultural portals and non-availability of training on the use and application of agricultural portals The suggestion given by the farm women was to provide more hands-on training on digital media.','Farm women, utilization, digital media, digital marketing, portal','Majority (48.33%) of the respondents belonged to middle age group of 35-50 years, majority (51.67%) of the respondents had income of Rs. 2,50,000/- to 4,00,000/- per annum, majority (40.00%) had completed their primary education, majority (85.00%) of them were married, majority (70.00%) of the Manipur respondents had medium information seeking behaviour, majority of the respondents listened for 8-10 hours per week followed by (8.33%) 5-7 hours, more than half (51.67%) of them of the respondents watch agricultural programmes once a week more than half (55.00%) of them have spent 2-4 hours in using internet, all (100.00%) the respondents have used the M4AGRINEI portal, 81.67 percent i.e. more than three by fourth of the respondents got the awareness of portals from their friends, relatives and neighbours, cent (100.00%) percent of the respondents haven’t used any of the agricultural apps, where majority (90.00%) of them want to try using the apps and 81.67 percent of the respondents have heard about the farming apps. The results showed that majority were aware of the M4AGRINEI portal, which they were using through the extension personnel. They were utilizing television and radio for their information. The agricultural applications were available but the majority were not aware of them. The major suggestion from the study was to provide awareness and training on the different portals and applications available on digital media.','-','Priyanka Rajkumari, M. Prasuna, R. Geetha Reddy and Janaki Srinath (2023). Awareness of Digital Media by the Farm Women of Manipur. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 15(4): 747-752.'),(6560,'156','Effect of Plant Growth Regulators and Plant Growth Promoting Rhizobacteria on Physio-chemical properties of Mungbean under Drought Stress','K. Anil Kumar, A. Geetha, Ratna Kumar Pasala, C.V. Sameer Kumar, T. Ramesh and Brij Bihari Pandey','Effect-of-Plant-Growth-Regulators-and-Plant-Growth-Promoting-Rhizobacteria-on-Physio-chemical-properties-of-Mungbean-under-Drought-Stress-K-Anil-Kumar-125.pdf','',1,'Among the different abiotic stress, drought is one of the most significant abiotic factors that have a negative impact on crop growth and production. In Telangana, post-rainy season grown mungbean frequently experiences drought at different growth stages and are altered pigment synthesis and metabolic processes. The present investigation was formulated to find out the potential role of plant growth regulators and plant growth promoting bacteria in improving physio-chemical properties of mungbean under drought stress conditions. The whole study was carried out at the Indian Institute of Oil Research (IIOR), Rajendranagar, Hyderabad, during the Kharif season, 2021–22. The study was conducted by arranging pots in a split-plot design with three replications and experimental material comprised two varieties of mungbean cultivars, WGG42 and MGG385. Various combinations of plant growth regulators (salicylic acid at 100 ppm and paclobutrazol at 150 ppm) and plant growth promoting bacteria (Bacillus subtilis, Bacillus thuringiensis, and Bacillus megaterium) were given as treatment to the crop. The plant growth regulators (PGRs) were given to the crop at 20 and 35 days after sowing (five days before flowering and five days after flowering), whereas the plant growth promoting bacteria (PGPRs) were applied as a seed treatment. Different physio-biochemical parameters were recorded during the experiment after subjecting the plants to irrigated and stressed conditions. The results indicated that drought stress conditions caused a reduction in SPAD chlorophyll meter readings, membrane stability index, and protein content, whereas increased proline content and antioxidant enzymes at all three growth stages. Furthermore, the combined application of all PGRs and PGPRs (seeds inoculated with Biotilis, Lipel, and P Sol B at 10 g/kg of seed each, paclobutrazol at 150 ppm and salicylic acid at 100 ppm) to the mungbean cultivars was found to be most promising at all the growth stages compared to the rest of the treatments and control. Therefore, from the present study, it can be inferred that application of PGRs and PGPRs were highly effective in improving the physio-chemical properties of mungbean. ','Mungbean, drought stress, PGRs, PGPRs, physio-chemical properties','The world’s population is growing rapidly and is expected to reach 9 billion by 2050, raising concerns about food security. Furthermore, the changing climate scenario threatens food production both in terms of quantity and quality. Drought is one of the most significant abiotic factors that have a negative impact on crop growth and production. In present study, the physio-biochemical parameters of mungbean were recorded under the pot culture experiment after subjecting the plants to both irrigated and stressed conditions. The physio-chemical traits, viz., SPAD chlorophyll meter readings (SCMR), membrane stability index (MSI), protein content, proline content, antioxidant enzymes (catalase, peroxidase, and superoxide dismutase), were recorded after the application of treatments at three different stages of crop growth: flowering, pod filling, and pod maturation. The experimental findings indicated all the physio-chemical traits were significantly varied. The imposition of drought stress conditions caused an overall significant reduction in SCMR (8.8 to 27.0%), membrane stability index (5.0 to 6.8%), and protein content (11.9 to 19.3%). On the other hand, water-limited conditions significantly enhanced the proline content (13.8 to 40.0%) and antioxidant enzymes (20.0 to 54.0%) at all three growth stages in both cultivars compared to irrigated conditions. Also, it was observed that negative effect of drought stress was more pronounced in WGG 42 compared to MGG 385. Among the cultivars, MGG 385 recorded higher SCMR, MSI, and protein content, while cultivar WGG 42 performed superiorly in terms of proline content and antioxidant enzymes under both irrigated and drought-stress conditions. Furthermore, application of PGRs and PGPRs (either alone or in combination) significantly improved the drought stress tolerance and improved the physio-chemical traits of mungbean cultivars. In conclusion, both PGRs and PGPRs in combination were found effective in mitigating the harmful effects of drought stress conditions by way of improving the physio-chemical properties of mungbean cultivars. In addition, the identified concentration of PGRs (salicylic acid and paclobutrazol) and PGPRs (Bacillus subtilis, Bacillus thuringiensis, and Bacillus megaterium) could be also used in other legumes as well as field crops.','-','K. Anil Kumar, A. Geetha, Ratna Kumar Pasala, C.V. Sameer Kumar, T. Ramesh and Brij Bihari Pandey (2023). Effect of Plant Growth Regulators and Plant Growth Promoting Rhizobacteria on Physio-chemical properties of Mungbean under Drought Stress. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 15(4): 753-761.'),(6561,'156','Correlation and Path analysis of Seed Yield of Sesame (Sesamum indicum L.) under Summer Rice Fallow conditions','M. Dhandapani, Thiyagu K., Geethanjali S., Subrahmaniyan K., Shanmugam A., Salini A.P. and Nelson Navamaniraj K.','Correlation-and-Path-analysis-of-Seed-Yield-of-Sesame-(Sesamum-indicum-L.)-under-Summer-Rice-Fallow-conditions-M-Dhandapani-126.pdf','',1,'Correlation and path analysis were performed to study the traits correlating and associating with seed yield of sesame under rice fallow conditions. Totally 95 genotypes of sesame were used in this study. The genotypes were raised in augmented design for evaluation under rice fallow conditions. The lines were raised under zero tillage and low input response conditions suitable for rice fallow ecosystem. The yield and yield attributing traits were recorded and analysed for correlation and path coefficient studies. Seed yield is positively correlated with germination percentage, plant height and number of capsules per plant, but negatively correlated with days to maturity. Number of capsules per plant positively correlated with plant height and negatively correlated with days to maturity. Shoot length and root length were positively correlated with seedling vigour index, but they were not correlated with plant height, and seed yield. Number of capsules per plant and plant height has direct effect on Seed yield, and days to maturity have indirect effect on seed yield. Hence, selection of superior progenies in segregating populations under rice fallow should be effected with higher plant height, long duration combined with more number of capsules to increase the yield. This study showed the component traits with their correlations and association for sesame genotypes adaptive conditions under rice fallow cultivation. ','Rice fallow, Zero tillage, low input response, correlation, path coefficient, Cauvery Delta Zone','Summer rice fallow sesame cultivation is a promising cropping pattern to diversify the rice based cropping system and increase the area of sesame production towards oilseed self sufficiency. To develop summer rice fallow responsiveness in sesame, the characters correlated and having positive direct and indirect effects have to be selected in segregating generations viz., higher germination percentage under rice fallow conditions, plant height, number of capsules per plant. ','-','M. Dhandapani, Thiyagu K., Geethanjali S., Subrahmaniyan K., Shanmugam A., Salini A.P. and Nelson Navamaniraj K. (2023). Correlation and Path analysis of Seed Yield of Sesame (Sesamum indicum L.) under Summer Rice Fallow Conditions. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 15(4): 762-766.'),(6562,'156','Influence of Organic pH Modifiers on Molecular Interactions and Sustained Release of Methyl Eugenol in Angstrom Void Polymer (AVP) Gel Matrix Formulation','S. Kannan, Lokesh Makam and S.P. Venkatesh Prasad','Influence of Organic pH Modifiers on Molecular Interactions and Sustained Release of Methyl Eugenol in Angstrom Void Polymer (AVP) Gel Matrix Formulation-S Kannan-127.pdf','',1,'Methyl eugenol (ME) is widely used as fruit fly attractant in infested agricultural fields. But the biggest challenge is to develop sustained release formulation for slow and sustained release of ME, which can be effectively used for prolonged period when deployed in open fields. In the present study evaluating sustained release activity of ME using Angstrom Void Polymer (AVP) gel matrix formulation, the experimental results depicted that the pH of AVP gel matrix influences ME molecules to exhibit variable weak ionic attraction forces with acrylic acid units of the polymer gel as well as the surface adsorption, influx, and efflux movement of ME from the 3D molecular sieves of zeolites 4A. This behaviour of ME significantly influences the sustained release property of ME loaded AVP gel matrix. In the present study, ME charged Carbopol 940 gel formulation when coupled with ME charged Zeolites 4A, and the resultant matrix modulated with organic pH modifiers, the experimental results showed a significant increase in sustained release activity of the matrix. The experimental results exhibited that ME release rate was influenced by changes in pH of the matrix, which alters the amphoteric nature of the Zeolites 4A and influences the changes in attractive forces between ME and Zeolites 4A also ME interaction with Carbopol 940 gel in the matrix. The present experimental results clearly demonstrate the relationship between pH and sustained release property of the AVP gel matrix for ME. The results clearly demonstrated, when pH changes from more acidic to less acidic it improves the sustained release property of the matrix and at less acidic 6.5 pH sustained release effect of ME was optimal and exhibited a sustained release of ME with an average release of 33.33±0.06mgs per day effectively for 56 days, with a loading dose 2gms of ME into the zeolite 4A dispersed Carbopol 940 gel; AVP gel matrix formulation (Indian patent applied; Patent Application Number: 201741016813).','Methyl Eugenol (ME), Carbopol 940 gel, Zeolites, AVP gel matrix','Present experimental results clearly demonstrate the direct relationship between pH of the Carbopol 940 aqueous gel and its impact on Zeolites 4A for the molecular intrusion, influx, and efflux of ME molecules from the 3D molecular sieves as well as surface adsorption property for ME. Thus, by modulating the pH of the AVP gel matrix system, in and out movement of ME from the molecular sieves of Zeolites 4A, ionic interaction, and surface adsorption of ME with AVP gel matrix can be modulated. These interactive properties of the ME depend on the chemical nature of active ingredient and pH of the matrix. In the present experimental study, sustained release activity of the AVP gel matrix was achieved for 56 days at pH 6.5 for the pheromone ME. Thus, the developed AVP gel matrix formulation can be deployed in open agricultural fields for effectively attracting fruit flies. ','-','S. Kannan, Lokesh Makam and S.P. Venkatesh Prasad (2023). Influence of Organic pH Modifiers on Molecular Interactions and Sustained Release of Methyl Eugenol in Angstrom Void Polymer (AVP) Gel Matrix Formulation. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 15(4): 767-770.'),(6563,'156','Biological Activity of Curcumin in Inflammatory Diseases and Cancers: A Review','Bahuguna Ankit, Indu Tewari and Sanjay Singh','Biological-Activity-of-Curcumin-in-Inflammatory-Diseases-and-Cancers-A-Review-Ankit-Bahuguna-128.pdf','',1,'Curcumin is an active component in Curcuma longa which has derivation from its Rhizome. It is a perennial plant. Curcumin has molecular formula: C21H20O6. It is chemically, 1, 7- bis (4- hydroxy - 3 methoxyphenyl) -1, 6 - heptadine - 3, 5 – diene. It is also termed as- ‘Di feruloyl methane’. It is extensively employed as a herbal drug in treatment of various diseases mainly associated with inflammatory conditions. In this review paper, mechanisms of action of Curcumin of various molecules of inflammation associated pathway has been studied. Also, few clinical trials have been researched up on which throw a light on beneficial effects of Curcumin in inflammatory conditions like- rheumatoid arthritis and malignant conditions such as colorectal carcinomas. Hence, the challenges while performing the review article were to pin-point pharmaceutical benefits of Curcumin within acceptable dosages over various inflammatory diseases and cancerous conditions affecting humans. ','Curcumin, Curcuma, inflammation, cancer, biological, mediators, chemokines','Curcumin has been seen to target a vast variety of molecular sites or targets as it has significant potential as therapeutic drug in various inflammatory diseases and types of cancer.\r\nThe significant obstacle in utilization of curcumin in medical therapeutics is its limited bioavailability systemically. Hence, researchers all across the world are investigating large numbers of components of curcumin components and its analogous as they have greater effectiveness and have better absorption capacity. Observed results from different clinical trials have shown promising results. Henceforth, more studies are being conducted in treating inflammatory conditions and various types of cancers. \r\n','-','Bahuguna Ankit, Indu Tewari and Sanjay Singh (2023). Biological Activity of Curcumin in Inflammatory Diseases and Cancers: A Review. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 15(4): 771-774.'),(6564,'156','Biocidal Efficacy of Plant Volatiles Obtained from Brassica species Against Fusarium wilt of Eggplant caused by Fusarium oxysporum f.sp. melongenae','V. Govardhan Rao and H.S. Viswanath','Biocidal-Efficacy-of-Plant-Volatiles-Obtained-from-Brassica-species-Against-Fusarium-wilt-of-Eggplant-caused-by-Fusarium-oxysporum-f.sp.-melongenae-HS-Viswanath-129.pdf','',1,'Eggplant is the most traditional vegetable crop in India. It is susceptible to a number of diseases that reduce yield and quality. Among them, Fusarium wilt caused by Fusarium oxysporum f.sp. melongenae (FOM) is one of the most important soil borne diseases responsible for yield reduction in India. High doses of chemical fungicides are typically employed to treat this disease, but these chemicals have negative effects on both human and environmental health in addition to making disease-causing organisms more resistant to treatment. So, in the current study, a simple, inexpensive, and environmentally friendly method, i.e., soil incorporation of plant components having volatiles, was used to check the growth of a wilt-causing pathogen by testing the efficacy of plant leaf tissues of six cruciferous/Brassica species both in vitro and in earthen pots under laboratory and polyhouse conditions, respectively. During the in vitro study, mustard leaf tissue exhibited maximum mycelial inhibition (90.15 and 77.65 %) followed by Broccoli leaf tissue (65.50 and 73.86%) after five and seven days of inoculation (DAI) respectively. while radish leaf tissue recorded the least inhibitory effect (31.48% and 11.77 %) at 5 and 7 DAI, respectively. In the pot culture test, a similar trend was observed by increasing the germination percentage and decreasing the pre- and post-emergence seedling mortality in all Brassica leaf tissues tested. However, sinigrin concentrations estimated per 100 g of Brassica leaf and root tissues were correlated with the efficacy of different treatments, viz., mustard (512.00 mg and 38.20 mg), followed by broccoli leaf tissue (36.40 mg and 2.80 mg), cabbage (28.40 mg and 0.1 mg), cauliflower (17.20 mg and 0.1 mg), Knol kohl (2.60 mg and 0.1mg) and lastly radish (less than 0.1 mg in both leaf and root) led to a significant reduction of F. oxysporum f.sp. melongenae populations in pot experiment ranging from 12.83 × 106 CFU in mustard to 3.77 × 106 CFU in radish.','Fusarium wilt, eggplant, biocidal volatiles, Isothiocyanates, Glucosinolates','Soil borne plant pathogens are among the major factors limiting the productivity of agro-ecosystems. They are often difficult to control with conventional strategies such as the use of resistant host cultivars and synthetic fungicides. The lack of reliable chemicals, the occurrence of fungicide resistance in pathogens and associated environmental risks, and the breakdown or circumvention of host resistance by pathogen populations are some of the reasons underlying efforts to develop new disease control measures. Over the last decade, the attention for bioactive natural molecules is strongly increased because public opinion considers them as a mild, safe and reliable option to prevent or to fight not only several diseases in humans, but even different plant pathogens, thus limiting the use of synthetic pesticides in agriculture. In the present study among the six Brassica spp. tested, Biocidal volatiles released by Mustard leaf tissue exhibited maximum mycelial growth inhibition (90.15% and 77.65%) followed by Broccoli leaf tissue (65.50% and 73.86%) at 5 DAI and 7 DAI respectively. Similarly, in vitro population of test pathogen was inhibited (3.77 × 106 to 12.83 × 106) because of Sinigrin concentrations (512.00 mg and 38.20 mg in leaf and root tissue of mustard) present.','-','V. Govardhan Rao and H.S. Viswanath (2023). Biocidal Efficacy of Plant Volatiles Obtained from Brassica species Against Fusarium wilt of Eggplant caused by Fusarium oxysporum f.sp. melongenae. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 15(4): 775-782.'),(6565,'156','Marine Yeast Candida tropicalis as Alternative Source of Biofertilizer','V. Sree Sountharavallee, M. Sureshkumar, K. Kathiresan and D. Kavitha','Marine-Yeast-Candida-tropicalis-as-Alternative-Source-of-Biofertilizer-M.-Sureshkumar-130.pdf','',1,'Isolate and identify the phosphate solubilization ability of marine yeast Candida tropicalis and its alternative approach for bio fertilizer. The marine yeast was isolated and subjected to observe phosphate solubilization of yeast by plating in Pikovskaya medium and the characterization of yeast was done by the microbial and biochemical methods. The phosphate solubilization was measured by phosphate molybdenum method. The growth of Sorghum bicolor crop and seed was measured by using phosphate solubilized yeast in the field. ','Candida tropicalis, phosphate solubilization, biofertilizer, Pikovskaya medium','Phosphorous is an essential macronutrient for plant growth and development. About 95- 99% present in soil insoluble form. Phosphate solubilizing microorganisms can increase soil phosphate solubility and availability. This study was aimed to identify and evaluate phosphate solubilizing yeast, yeast species were positive in phosphate solubilizing ability. Therefore, these species can be candidate and exploited after further evaluation as bio fertilizers. Utilization efficiency of crops for phosphate chemical fertilizer is around 30%, the remaining 70% exist in compound and bound form, such economic considerations and phosphate existence in compound form necessitate for an alternative less expensive and environmentally friendly bio fertilizer improving yield and quality. ','-','V. Sree Sountharavallee, Sureshkumar, M., Kathiresan, K. and Kavitha, D. (2023). Marine Yeast Candida Tropicalis as Alternative Source of Biofertilizer. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 15(4): 783-788.');
INSERT INTO `pdf_upload` VALUES (6566,'157','Refractance Window Drying vis-à-vis Osmotic and Hot Air Drying of Indian Gooseberry based: Comparison of Quality Attribute and Microstructural Changes','Lalita, Saroj Kumar Giri and Aseeya Wahid','Refractance-Window-Drying-vis-a-vis-Osmotic-and-Hot-Air-Drying-of-Indian-Gooseberry-based-Comparison-of-Quality-Attribute-and-Microstructural-Changes-Lalita-3.pdf','',1,'Amla or Indian gooseberry is a medicinal fruit native to India with good commercial value. Due to high ascorbic acid and total polyphenols contents, amla is considered a good source of antioxidants. However, these constituents are sensitive to heat. In this investigation, the effect of refractance window (RW) drying, osmotic dehydration (OD) and hot air drying (HA) on retention of heat sensitive compounds and changes in microstructures of dehydrated amla slices were compared in order to find out the suitable drying technique for amla fruits. The RWD process retained significantly higher content (4-6 %) of heat sensitive compounds compared to OSD and HAD samples. The refractance window dried samples had also a smoother and uniform microstructure. Cell structures were formed in layers in OSD sample indicating case hardening, whereas extensive collapse in cell structure was observed in case of HAD sample. The RW drying is best suitable for preserving heat sensitive compound in aonla.','Amla, Ascorbic acid retention, Phenolic content, SEM','Drying is one of the most common techniques used for preserving amla, and various techniques like hot air drying, osmotic dehydration, solar drying, fluidized bed drying, freeze-drying, and oven drying have been explored for amla. Refractance window drying (RWD) is an alternative technique that is promising due to its ability to prevent thermal degradation of heat-sensitive nutritional constituents. RWD has potential for producing dried amla products with better retention of heat sensitive compounds with good nutritional properties compared to hot air drying and osmotic drying. Besides, maintaining nutritional qualities, the RW dried amla powder was more porous structure with better color retention. It can be recommended for dehydration of amla slices by RWD.','-','Lalita, Saroj Kumar Giri and Aseeya Wahid (2023). Refractance Window Drying vis-à-vis Osmotic and Hot Air Drying of Indian Gooseberry based: Comparison of Quality Attribute and Microstructural Changes. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 15(5): 17-20.'),(6567,'156','A Comprehensive Review of Recent Studies on Matrix Tablets for Drug Delivery with Oral Controlled Release','Dipak P. Kardile, Pravin B. Awate, Vishwas C. Bhagat, Ratan S. Birajdar, Rajkumar V. Shete, Suchita S. Lathi, Bhagyashri R. Mathdevru, Onkar P. Pawar and Rani M. Mhetre ','A-Comprehensive-Review-of-Recent-Studies-on-Matrix-Tablets-for-Drug-Delivery-with-Oral-Controlled-Release-Dipak-P-Kardil-131.pdf','',1,'Developing oral controlled release matrix tablet with constant release rate has always been a challenge to pharmaceutical technologist. The main challenges to oral drug delivery systems are to deliver a drug at therapeutically effective rate to desirable site, modulation of GI transit time and minimization of first pass elimination. Control release dosage form provides better maintenance of optimal and effective drug level for prolonged duration with less dosing frequency and side effects. Oral drug delivery has traditionally been the most popular mode of administration when compared to other options. Matrix tablets are the most common method for modifying a drug\'s release profile. By protecting the active ingredient from hydrolysis and degradation and reducing dose frequency, controlled release matrix tablets increase patient compliance. Hydrophobic polymer-based matrices release drugs more slowly than hydrophilic polymer-based matrices do. Diffusion or dissolving control mechanism ensures that medications are released from controlled release matrix tablets at a controlled and predictable rate. In order to create oral controlled drug delivery dosage forms, hydrophilic polymer matrix systems are commonly used due to their adaptability and capacity to provide a desired drug release profile. In this formulation polymer (The hydrophilic and hydrophobic polymers) used as release rate retardants, that’s why it controls drug blood level with uniform therapeutic level and avoid fluctuation thus prevent local or systemic adverse reactions.','Controlled release, hydrolysis, dissolution, diffusion, erosion, hydrophobic polymer, hydrophilic polymer, and kinetics of drug release','Oral release of control one of the convenient, safe, and effective dosing forms is the matrix tablet. Different polymers can be used to build various sorts of controlled release systems. The numerous biological and physicochemical characteristics of the medication and excipients are necessary for the successful production of the matrix tablet system. The distinct benefits of matrix tablets make them a compelling alternative for an oral controlled medication delivery system. Many medications can be given in ways that not only increase safety and efficacy but, in some circumstances, allow for novel and more effective therapies by using matrix tablets as an oral controlled release formulation. Different matrices, polymers, and release mechanisms from the matrix tablets have been discussed in this paper.\r\nMatrix tablets have discrete advantages which make them interesting candidate for oral controlled drug delivery system. Matrix tablets are helpful in increasing the efficiency of dose, increasing patient compliance. The problem of high cost of production, which was the disadvantage in early days, has been solved with improvement in technology. Using matrix tablet as oral controlled release formulation, many drugs, can be delivered in ways that not only improves safety and efficacy but, in some cases, permit new and more effective therapies.\r\n','-','Dipak P. Kardile, Pravin B. Awate, Vishwas C. Bhagat, Ratan S. Birajdar, Rajkumar V. Shete, Suchita S. Lathi, Bhagyashri R. Mathdevru, Onkar P. Pawar and Rani M. Mhetre (2023). A Comprehensive Review of Recent Studies on Matrix Tablets for Drug Delivery with Oral Controlled Release. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 15(4): 789-798.'),(6568,'147','Identification of Brown Planthopper (Nilaparvata lugens Stål.) Stress Response Genes in Rice using RNASeq Data','Lakesh Muduli, Sukanta Kumar Pradhan, Manasi Dash, Shyamaranjan Das Mohapatra and Surya Narayan Rath','Identification-of-Brown-Planthopper-(Nilaparvata-lugens-Stål.)-Stress-Response-Genes-in-Rice-using-RNASeq-Data-Surya-Narayan-Rath-121.pdf','',1,'Brown planthopper (Nilaparvata lugens Stål) is one of the major destructive pests in Asia and South East Asia region. Application of chemical pesticides is hazardous and produces resurgence in BPH biotypes. Therefore, identification of resistant genes and development of new genotypes can reduce the crop loss. Here, we have performed in silico analysis of RNASeq data from leaf and sheath samples of a resistant genotype, Qingliu in control and infested condition. This study discovered total 1050 significant differentially expressed genes (DEGs) in leaf and 244 DEGs in sheath samples with 1.5 fold change and adjusted p-value < 0.05. Further, these significant DEGs were undergone for building protein- protein network and GO enrichment analysis using STRING algorithm. This study reveals, genes belong to cellulose synthase family and genes related to signal protein like calmodulin-binding domain protein, Nitric oxide synthase and amino acid encoding are found to be up-regulated in leaf samples. Further, genes in leaf region involve in carbon metabolism, photosynthetic carbon fixation, biosynthesis of amino acid, nitrogen compound metabolic process are observed to be down-regulated which signified the shutdown of key metabolic process in stress condition. On the other hand, genes involves in hormonal pathways such as Salicyclic acid, Jasmonic acid, Abscisic acid and MAPK are found to be up-regulated in BPH infested sheath region. This study will help to understand the molecular mechanism involves in rice BPH interaction and may be used in future breeding programme to develop improved genotypes against BPH which can help to boost production and productivity.','Brown planthopper, RNASeq analysis, Differential expression of genes, Transcriptomic study','Transcriptomic analysis of variety, Qingliu belongs to Oryza sativa japonica group infested by BPH has provided insights into the host-pest interaction followed by gene expression and related protein-protein mechanism. There are many differentially expressed genes involved in both enzymatic and biochemical mechanism of defense against BPH attack in rice. This current study revealed two DEGs (Os10g0467800 and Os09g0422500) belonging to cellulose synthase family governing the resistance behavior. Out of these two, Os10g0467800 was found to be unique in this study. Many other key DEGs involved as secondary messenger during biotic stress are Ca2+ signaling related genes, (Os02g0299200), Nitric oxide synthase (Os02g0104700) and amino acid encoding genes, Asparagine (Os06g0265000). Also several genes associated with primary metabolic activities were observed to be down regulated during infestation indicating shift in resource allocation from growth to basal defensive system. Interestingly, under biotic stress, DEGs and their transcriptional factors, which control the key hormonal pathways like SA, JA, MAPK, and ABA, were highly up regulated. ','-','Lakesh Muduli, Sukanta Kumar Pradhan, Manasi Dash, Shyamaranjan Das Mohapatra and Surya Narayan Rath (2022). Identification of Brown Planthopper (Nilaparvata lugens Stål.) Stress Response Genes in Rice using RNASeq Data. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 14(4a): 705-714.'),(6569,'156','Current and Future Prospective in Management of Tuberculosis','Rohit Doke, Tejas Naik, Ajay Bhagwat, Rushali Deokar and Mahadevan Swamy','Current-and-Future-Prospective-in-Management-of-Tuberculosis-Rohit-Doke-132.pdf','',1,'Tuberculosis is chronic airborne bacterial infection caused by Mycobacterium tuberculosis, characterized by respiratory illness, impaired immune systems and is one of the leading causes of mortality in the world. The significant harmful side effects of the conventional synthetic therapeutic approaches and the development of cross- or multidrug resistance, which makes medication more challenging, have a detrimental impact on people health. Unsatisfactory diagnostics and treatment, multidrug-resistant tuberculosis (MDRTB), the Short Course (DOTS) programme, unregulated private health care leading to widespread irrational use of first- and second-line anti-TB drugs, and HIV coinfection are some of the main causes of the ongoing challenges in TB control. Natural products have been and will be a prominent source of novel medications for a wide range of disease. Antituberculotic medicinal plants provide an innovative clinical management, enabling the discovery of new molecules to prevent infection. The rising prevalence of multidrug-resistant, MTB strains and the adverse consequences of first- and second-line antitubercular agents have led to the growing interest in natural products in the search for novel antitubercular leads. Previous research has demonstrated that ayurvedic treatments significantly lower TB patients\' mortality rates. Due to its low toxicity and safety as compared to allopathic therapies, ayurvedic medicine is become most popular. \r\nMany medicinal plants have shown potential for the development of drug-hit candidates and many other drugs are currently in different phases of clinical trials. New drug delivery systems are currently being studied for the effective delivery of drugs to increase efficacy and reduce the chances of toxicity with the delivery of the drugs to the targeted site. The present review provides In-depth features of antituberculosis plants, chemical constituents, anti-tubercular characteristics and their ability of impacting the early stages of drug discovery with which they can be used as future novel treatment option in management of TB.\r\n','Tuberculosis, management of TB, natural products, recent approved anti-tubercular agents, novel treatment for TB, Ayurveda in TB','WHO has introduced all-oral regimens for better efficacy and safety but still there are concerns which are needed to be entertained efficiently and require the development of novel drugs and tremendous work in this field. Nature provides a plentiful supply of plants that can be utilized to treat human illnesses. Herbs have had a wide range of effects on human health as a foundational and important structure of traditional medicinal systems. Progress in the quest for exemplary treatments may be shown in the potency of chemically different compounds and herbs as prospective hepatoprotective and antimycobacterial agents. Combining the receptor specific characteristics of anti-TB medications with the many health advantages of medicinal plants might thus be a beneficial method to control TB and its adverse effects (Swain and Hussain 2022). Many medicinal plants have shown potential for the development of drug-hit candidates and many other drugs are currently in different phases of clinical trials (Tuyiringire et al., 2020). New drug delivery systems are currently being studied for the effective delivery of drugs to increase efficacy and reduce the chances of toxicity with the delivery of the drugs to the targeted site (Dua et al., 2018). Many people in poor nations use both prescription medications and herbal supplements at the same time. As a result, suitable research is needed to counteract this prevalent frequency. The mechanism behind the engagement of anti-TB drugs with herbal constituents has received little attention. There is a significant knowledge gap between attending physicians and the medicinal usage of herbal adjuvants. Plants having anti-tubercular and anti-oxidant capabilities might be investigated for their effective molecules and utilized in the development of new formulations that are acceptable to a larger range of doctors. In the present review, an enormous number of different compounds showed anti-TB activity as well. These provide fresh opportunities for the advancement of original anti-TB drugs. Some of the substances may be used in clinical sector to treat deadly diseases. Thus, before large-scale human usage, detailed studies of herb–drug interactions in many conventional experimental setups are required to assure the safety and effectiveness of such combos.','-','Rohit Doke, Tejas Naik, Ajay Bhagwat, Rushali Deokar and Mahadevan Swamy (2023). Current and Future Prospective in Management of Tuberculosis. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 15(4): 799-805.'),(6570,'156','Field Efficacy of Cypermethrin with Combination of different Botanicals against Shoot and Fruit borer (Leucinodes orbonalis Guenee) of Brinjal (Solanum melongena L.)','Udai Pal Singh, Anoorag R. Tayde, Sachin and Ashok Sakharam Chandar','Field-Efficacy-of-Cypermethrin-with-Combination-of-different-Botanicals-against-Shoot-and-Fruit-borer-(Leucinodes-orbonalis-Guenee)-of-Brinjal-(Solanum-melongena-L.)-Udaipal-Singh-133.pdf','',1,'The present investigation was conducted during July to December 2018 at Central Research Farm, SHUATS, Naini, Prayagraj as fruit and shoot borer is a major pest in brinjal causing severe damage to the crop in prayagraj. Regular use of chemical pesticides create problem in the natural ecosystem like environmental pollution, pest resistance and health hazard etc. Hence, the study was conducted to find out best combination of botanical along with chemical treatment. Eight treatments were evaluated against Leucinodes orbonalis i.e., Neem oil 2 mL/L, Garlic bulb extract 50 mL/L, Pongamia oil 5 mL/L, Neem oil 2 mL/L + Cypermethrin 10EC 1 mL/L, Garlic bulb extract 50 mL/L + Cypermethrin 10EC 1 mL/L, Pongamia oil 5 mL/L + Cypermethrin 10EC 1 mL/L, Cypermethrin 10EC 2 mL/L along with untreated control. Minimum per cent of shoot infestation, fruit infestation and highest B:C ratio were recorded in Neem oil + Cypermethrin with (15.04%, 10.62% and 1:8.10) followed by Pongamia oil + Cypermethrin (15.56%, 11.26% and 1:7.42), Garlic bulb Extract + Cypermethrin (16.04%, 12.33% and 1:6.86), Cypermethrin (16.70%, 12.82% and 1:6.69), Neem oil (17.99%, 13.00% and 1:6.37), Pongamia oil (18.62%, 13.66% and 1:6.13), Garlic bulb extract (19.65%, 14.66% and 1:5.20) and untreated control (25.67%, 20.70% and 1:3.10) respectively.','Leucinodes orbonalis, Benefit cost ratio, Brinjal, Efficacy, Botanicals','The highest yield and benefit cost ratio was recorded in Neem oil + Cypermethrin (check) (218.5 q/ha and 1:8.10) supported by Yadav et al. (2017) followed by Pongamia oil + Cypermethrin (198.6 q/ha and 1:7.12), Garlic bulb extract + cypermethrin (186.9 q/ha and 1:6.86), Cypermethrin (179.7 q/ha and 1:6.69), were best three among treatment and these can be used alternatively for the management of brinjal pests (Table 2). From the critical analysis of the present findings it can be concluded that different Botanicals with Cypermethrin pesticides like Neem oil + Cypermethrin, Pongamia oil + Cypermethrin, Garlic bulb extract + cypermethrin and Cypermethrin were showing good result against Leucinodes orbonalis and can be used instead of solo use of chemical insecticides which causes environmental and ecological dent. It also has potential to be included in integrated pest management.','-','Udai Pal Singh, Anoorag R. Tayde, Sachin and Ashok Sakharam Chandar (2023). Field Efficacy of Cypermethrin with Combination of different Botanicals against Shoot and Fruit borer (Leucinodes orbonalis Guenee) of Brinjal (Solanum melongena L.). Biological Forum – An International Journal, 15(4): 806-809.'),(6571,'156','Evaluation of ‘Reference Panel’ of the Global Rice Array Exotic Rice Genotypes for BLB and False Smut Resistance under Field Condition','Santanu Kumar Sahoo, Indra Deo, Shubham Kumawat and Gourav Kumar Mohanty','Evaluation-of-‘Reference-Panel’-of-the-Global-Rice-Array-Exotic-Rice-Genotypes-for-BLB-and-False-Smut-Resistance-under-Field-Condition-Santanu-Kumar-Sahoo-134.pdf','',1,'The present investigation was conducted at the Norman E. Borlaug Crop Research Centre (NEBCRC), Govind Ballabh Pant University of Agriculture and Technology, Pantnagar during Kharif 2021, to investigate the genetic potential of 39 ‘Reference Panel’ of the Global Rice Array exotic rice genotypes along with three checks viz. Govind, Pant Dhan 4 and Pant Dhan 12 against bacterial leaf blight and false smut. Bacterial suspension from infected disease materials was prepared. Clip method of artificial inoculation was used. The genotypes were screened for false smut under open infection condition. All the genotypes along with 3 checks were scored for BLB and false smut by using SES for Rice (IRRI, 1996). Out of all the tested genotypes, 17 showed highly resistant, 16 were moderately resistant and 6 lines viz. IR13V203, IR13V416, IR13V464, IR13V499, IR13V991 and IR13V1015 were susceptible. Among all the tested exotic genotypes, 6 genotypes namely IR13V203, IR13V224, IR13V617, IR13V624, IR13V112 and IR13V1119 showed highly resistance response to false smut. 16 were resistant, 8 showed moderately resistant, 6 were moderately susceptible whereas 3 genotypes viz. IR13V325, IR13V400 and IR13V681 exhibited highly susceptible response to false smut. These exotic genotypes will be further studied in different location with MAS and can be used as source of resistant genes for BLB and false smut to transfer in cultivated varieties. ','Xanthomonas oryza, Reference Panel GRA, exotic lines, BLB, false smut, rice','Due to different genetic background the genotypes varied significantly for bacterial leaf blight disease and false smut disease. Rice genotypes found resistant could be used as a donor source for developing bacterial leaf blight resistant variety in India. The genotypes found moderately resistant could be used as the resistant source for developing bacterial leaf blight resistant and false smut resistant varieties for various domains of India .The Exotic Genotypes are further evaluated through genotyping by using BLB SSR markers. As the BLB is a devastating disease in many part of rice growing area of India, so these exotic IRRI genotypes will play a very good resistant source for transferring resistant gene to our high yielding cultivated variety. ','-','Santanu Kumar Sahoo, Indra Deo, Shubham Kumawat and Gourav Kumar Mohanty (2023). Evaluation of ‘Reference Panel’ of the Global Rice Array Exotic Rice Genotypes for BLB and False Smut Resistance under Field Condition. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 15(4): 810-813.'),(6572,'157','A Study to Evaluate the Effectiveness of Plyometric Training Program Versus Conventional Program on Pain and Ankle Instability Among Football Players – Randomized Controlled Trial (RCT)','Muralisankar K.S.I., Aarthi S., Abinaya S. and Dhivyadharshini V.','A-Study-to-Evaluate-the-Effectiveness-of-Plyometric-Training-Program-Versus-Conventional-Program-on-Pain-and-Ankle-Instability-Among-Football-Players-–-Randomized-Controlled-Trial-(RCT)-Abinaya-Abinaya-S-4.pdf','',1,'Ankle instability means repetitive ankle sprains or re-damage and the complaint of subjective feelings such as ankle giving away in daily living activities. Football players require dynamic muscular performance. Strength and performance can be improved by plyometric training. It involves physical activities that require muscles to contract with their maximal force for brief periods of time in order to improve dynamic performances.\r\nThe study was conducted at Indira Gandhi stadium, Uppalam, Puducherry, 64 football players were randomly recruited for this study (n=32 in each group – Group A&B). Group A received plyometric training program. Group B received conventional therapy for 6 weeks. VAS and CAIT were recorded before and after intervention of 6 weeks. Only the variables of pain severity and ankle instability were studied, and females were not included in the study due to its limited sample size. A similar study with a bigger sample size might make it easier to draw firm conclusions and establish generalisations. It could also be used to measure the strength, agility, and proprioceptive abilities of the ankle and to evaluate the exercise regimen for different sports players. The result shows that the VAS and CAIT scores are improved significantly in both groups, but the difference of improvement is higher in group A, who received plyometric training program. Plyometric training program is much better than the conventional therapy for the management of ankle instability.\r\n','Ankle Instability, Football Players, Plyometric Training Program, Conventional Program, Visual Analogue Scale and Cumberland Ankle Instability Tool','The current study demonstrates that plyometric training programmes have been successful in reducing ankle sprain among football players, even though strengthening is a crucial factor in the treatment of ankle sprains that have weak ankles. Plyometric training programmes help athlete’s ankle stability while also enhancing their neuromuscular, neuro-motor, and sensory-motor systems, improving their static and dynamic balance, and reducing the risk of injury recurrence in patients with injured ankles. According to the statistical findings, plyometric exercise significantly improved ankle stability and pain levels in football players with ankle instability (Group A) compared to those who underwent conventional therapy (Group B).','-','Muralisankar K.S.I., Aarthi S., Abinaya S. and Dhivyadharshini V. (2023). A Study to Evaluate the Effectiveness of Plyometric Training Program Versus Conventional Program on Pain and Ankle Instability Among Football Players – Randomized Controlled Trial (RCT). Biological Forum – An International Journal, 15(5): 21-24.'),(6573,'157','Evaluating the Growth Behaviour, Fruiting Body characteristics and Yield Potential of Oyster Mushroom (Pleurotus ostreatus) on Different Straw Substrates','Deepak Kumar Kanaujiya, Yogesh Kumar, Vedant Gautam and Ravi Nagar','Evaluating-the-Growth-Behaviour,-Fruiting-Body-characteristics-and-Yield-Potential-of-Oyster-Mushroom-(Pleurotus-ostreatus)-on-different-Straw-Substrates-Yogesh-Kumar-5.pdf','',1,'Oyster mushroom (Pleurotus spp.) is a popular edible mushroom known for its delicate flavor and nutritional value. Rice and wheat straw are the major substrates used for the production of mushroom. The use of different basal substrate has been a common practice for optimization of the C:N ratio, enhance the yield, nutritional and medicinal values. In the present investigation, eleven substrates were evaluated in two years respectively for 2020-21 and 2021-22 for the growth behaviour, fruiting body and its characteristics and biological efficiency of Oyster mushroom. After pooling the data of two years, significant effect of different substrates was recorded. The results of the present investigation revealed that wheat straw substrate recorded significantly less time for spawn run (14.65 days), pinhead initiation (19.725 days), 1st harvesting days (25.06 days), 3rd harvesting days (45.47 days) and 4th harvesting days (57.225 days). Supplementation with rice straw resulted into the best result for 2nd harvesting where it took 34.38 days. For fruiting body characteristics, Wheat straw exhibited the best result on the parameters of total no. of fruiting bodies (97.99), Maximum weight of fruiting body (25.84 gm), average length of stalk (7.85 cm), average width of stalk (2.79 cm), average diameter of mushroom cap (8.13 cm) and total diameter of mushroom (12.81 cm). For minimum weight of fruiting body with 7.84 gm, rice straw exhibited the finest response. Use of wheat straw enhanced the yield significantly in all four flushes with pooled total yield (965.53 g) and biological efficiency (96.20%). In a few of the observations Maize substrate and Sugarcane bagasse exhibited wonderful positive results. Overall, wheat straw and rice straw substrate were the best and maize straw, sugarcane bagasse were above par.','Oyster mushroom, Pleurotus ostreatus, straw substrates, spawn, flush','During the two consecutive years of continuous investigation, wheat straw followed by rice straw was found to be the best substrate for Oyster mushroom production whereas Mustard straw followed by lentil straw was the poorest performing substrate among eleven substrates tested.','-','Deepak Kumar Kanaujiya, Yogesh Kumar, Vedant Gautam and Ravi Nagar (2023). Evaluating the Growth Behaviour, Fruiting Body characteristics and Yield Potential of Oyster Mushroom (Pleurotus ostreatus) on Different Straw Substrates. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 15(5): 25-32.'),(6574,'157','A Review on – Liposomes as a Novel Drug Delivery System: Marketed Products and Future Perspectives','Deepak P. Kardile, Pravin B. Awate, Vishwas C. Bhagat, Aarti Y. Rajput, Rajkumar V. Shete, Mitali A. Aher, Priya R. Patil and Shraddha S. Pawar ','A-Review-on-–-Liposomes-as-a-Novel-Drug-Delivery-System-Marketed-Products-and-Future-Perspectives-Deepak-Kardile-6.pdf','',1,'Liposomes are a drug delivery system that is adaptable and optimistic. The benefits of liposomes over other drug delivery systems include site-targeting, prolonged or controlled release, protection of drugs from degradation and clearance, higher therapeutic effects, and fewer toxic adverse effects. As effective drug carriers in pre-clinical and clinical studies, liposomes provide a wide range of benefits and uses. Additionally, issues pertaining to liposomal stabilization, efficient targeting techniques, and some of their drawbacks were discussed. Formulation of liposomes has enabled the modification of drug biodistribution of many drugs, hence improving the therapeutic properties of those compounds. In conclusion, this study aims to investigate the liposomes currently on the market that are used as a drug delivery method in various therapeutic uses.','Liposomes, Drug delivery, Liposome Production, Applications, Commercialised products','Liposomes are one of the unique drug delivery systems that played a significant role in the formulation of potent drugs, which can be of potential use in controlling and targeting drug delivery and improving their therapeutics. Drugs of both categories (hydrophilic/ lipophilic) are easily embedded in the liposomes. The liposomal formulation\'s effectiveness relies on its capacity to transport the molecules to the desired site over a lengthy duration of time, whereas minimizing the drug\'s adverse effects. The phospholipid bilayers contain the medicines, which are predicted to diffuse out of the bilayer gradually. When the development of liposomal drug therapy delivery methods, a number of variables, including drug quantity, the ratio of drug to lipid, capsule effectiveness, and in vivo drug release, must be taken into consideration. Liposomes are administrated orally, parenterally, and topically as well as used in cosmetic and hair technologies, sustained release formulations, diagnostic purposes, and as good carriers in gene delivery various drugs with liposomal delivery systems have been approved. Nowadays liposomes are used as versatile carriers for targeted delivery of drug. The liposomal technique is used effectively to enhance the pharmacokinetics and therapeutic effectiveness while concurrently lowering the toxicity of different extremely potent medicines.','-','Deepak P. Kardile, Pravin B. Awate, Vishwas C. Bhagat, Aarti Y. Rajput, Rajkumar V. Shete, Mitali A. Aher, Priya R. Patil and Shraddha S. Pawar (2023). A Review on – Liposomes as a Novel Drug Delivery System: Marketed Products and Future Perspectives. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 15(5): 33-38.'),(6575,'157','Genetic and Environmental Analysis for Verbal and Non-verbal Intelligence of 5-6 Years Twins: An Intervention Study','Annu and Bimla Dhanda','Genetic-and-Environmental-Analysis-for-Verbal-and-Non-verbal-Intelligence-of-5-6-Years-Twins-An-Intervention-Study-Annu-7.pdf','',1,'The genetic variations accounted for around 60-70% in verbal and non-verbal intelligence of twins during early childhood. Intelligence is mental ability of a person towards planning, reasoning, problem-solving, abstract thinking, quick learning and learning through experiences. The main aim of twin investigation was to analyse the genetic and environmental variations in verbal and non-verbal intelligence of twins to assess the impact of intervention on intelligence of twins. The study was planned to examine the how much of variations in verbal and non-verbal intelligence of twins from the age 5-6 years due to genetic and environmental factors and assess the impact of intervention programme on intelligence of twins. Twin research was conducted in Bhiwani and Hisar district of Haryana state. Twins with age group of 5-6 years was selected from villages of Bhiwani district and Hisar district. Intelligence of twins was examined with help of Stanford Binet Intelligence Scale (Terman and Merrill 1960), whereas home environment of twins was measured by using the Home Observation for Measurement of the Environment (HOME) (Caldwell and Bradley, 1984). Results of present twin study revealed that the significant difference in mean values was observed on age 5-6 years for non-verbal intelligence of twins in Bhiwani and Hisar district on the basis of standard test. The findings on heritability estimates showed that the influence of genetic material on verbal and non-verbal intelligence level of twins was more than the environment in both districts. The contribution of genetics was more on verbal intelligence of twins than non-verbal intelligence of twins. Home environment of twins improve the intellectual abilities of twins in early childhood period. The findings of twin study revealed that identical twins were more correlated with each other as compared to fraternal twins for their both verbal and non-verbal intelligence. The result showed that significant increase in intelligence level of twins due to several activities related to intelligence provided through the intervention programme. Intervention programme was also responsible to improve the intelligence of twins.','Verbal intelligence, Non-verbal intelligence, Genetics, Environment and Twins','Twin research concluded as the genetic and environmental variation in verbal and non-verbal intelligence of twins during early childhood, more influenced by genetic propensities than environmental factors. The genes are more responsible for variations in verbal intelligence of twins than non-verbal intelligence of twins. The impact of genetic material was more as compared to the environmental circumstances. The more similarity in verbal and non-verbal intelligence of twins was in monozygotic twins than dizygotic twins. The home environmental circumstances significantly associated with intelligence of twins in early years of life. The composite home-environmental settings are responsible for enhancement of the intelligence level of twins. Intervention programme was enhanced the intelligence of twins in both Bhiwani and Hisar District.','-','Annu and Bimla Dhanda (2023). Genetic and Environmental Analysis for Verbal and Non-verbal Intelligence of 5-6 Years Twins: An Intervention Study. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 15(5): 39-44.'),(6576,'157','Overview of Regulatory Oversight and Evaluation of Probiotics in the United States, and India','Shaik Najma and Koushik Yetukuri','Overview-of-Regulatory-Oversight-and-Evaluation-of-Probiotics-in-the-United-States,-and-India-Shaik-Najma-8.pdf','',1,'Live microorganisms known as \"probiotics\" are marketed with the promise that, when taken orally, they will improve or restore the gut microbiota\'s health. The first probiotic was named Lactobacillus bulgaricus, a bacillus strain discovered in Bulgarian yogurt. Bulgarian physician and microbiologist Stamen Grigorov discovered the finding in 1905. The contemporary notion is typically credited to Russian Nobel winner Élie Metchnikoff, who proposed in 1907 that Bulgarian peasants who consumed yogurt lived longer. The U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) may regulate a probiotic product as a dietary supplement, a component of food, or a medication, depending on its intended purpose. Several probiotics are offered as dietary supplements that can be marketed without first receiving FDA approval. When probiotics first became popular in India, no rules existed. Hence, the Indian Council of Medical Research (ICMR) in conjunction with the Department of Biotechnology (DBT) formed a task force to create the regulatory rules for probiotic manufacturing in India to assess the safety and prevent the popularisation of probiotic products with misleading claims. Regulation, health claims, research and evidence, consumer awareness, and education are issues in the United States as a result of the usage of probiotics, whereas quality control, a lack of regulatory framework, low awareness, and accessibility are challenges in India. The fundamental purpose of this project is to compare the regulations and registration requirements required for probiotic approval in the US and India. The research was conducted to gather information from numerous marketing websites and official websites like the FDA, FSSAI, ICMR-DBT, and CDSCO. My research revealed that many people nowadays mostly depend on controlling their dietary habits to maintain their health, such as by including probiotics in their diet. Hence, there is an increase in the number of probiotic product regulations and approvals globally to maintain safety.','Probiotic, Lactobacillus bulgaricus, Dietary supplement, Regulations, Indian Council of Medical Research (ICMR), Department of Biotechnology (DBT)','Probiotics are products containing live microorganisms and are marketed with the promise that, when taken, they would improve or restore the health of the gut microbiota. The regulation and evaluation of probiotics in India and the US are different in several ways, The Food Safety and Standards Authority of India (FSSAI), which oversees establishing standards for food and food products, oversees regulating probiotics in India. Probiotics are functional food components, and the FSSAI has established rules for their usage in food products. According to the FSSAI\'s regulations, probiotics must be beneficial to health, safe, and effective.\r\nOn the other hand, in the US, the regulation of probiotics falls under the jurisdiction of the Food and Drug Administration (FDA). The FDA classifies probiotics as dietary supplements, which means that they are regulated under the Dietary Supplement Health and Education Act of 1994 (DSHEA). According to the DSHEA, dietary supplements are considered safe until proven otherwise, and manufacturers are responsible for ensuring the safety and labeling of their products.\r\nIn terms of evaluation, in India, probiotics are evaluated based on the safety and efficacy of the strain used and its potential health benefits. The evaluation process in India involves testing the probiotic strain in vitro and in vivo before it is approved for use in food products. In the US, probiotics are evaluated based on the safety and efficacy of the product. The evaluation process in the US involves testing the finished product for purity, potency, and effectiveness and ensuring that the product is properly labelled.\r\nOverall, while both India and the US have regulations and evaluation processes for probiotics, the specific guidelines and procedures differ between the two countries.\r\n','-','Shaik Najma and Koushik Yetukuri (2023). Overview of Regulatory Oversight and Evaluation of Probiotics in the United States, and India. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 15(5): 45-55.'),(6577,'156','Effect of Variable Size Compartment Bunds on Soil Moisture, Rainwater use Efficiency and Water Productivity of Green Gram in Semi-arid Region','Kalbande Vishal Dashrathrao, Sunil Shirwal, M. Veerangouda, Sushilendra, Rajkumar R. Halidoddi, Mareappa Hirekurubaru, Murali M. and Rahul Patil ','Effect-of-Variable-Size-Compartment-Bunds-on-Soil-Moisture,-Rainwater-use-Efficiency-and-Water-Productivity-of-Green-Gram-in-Semi-arid-Region-Kalbande-Vishal-Dashrathrao-135.pdf','',1,'Rainwater is the major source of irrigation in arid and semiarid regions therefore to harvest rainwater the research was conducted on effect of compartment bunds. Compartment bunds are the most suitable method to harvest rainwater and conserve soil moisture; therefore, to study the soil moisture conservation, rainwater use efficiency and water productivity, three compartment bund sizes of 2.50×2.75 m, 2.50×3.50 m and 2.50×4.00 m were selected along with a control treatment. Soil moisture retention up to threshold level under compartment bunds observed for 30 days, whereas in control treatment moisture was retained up to 19 days only. Thea rainwater use efficiency under different treatments were compared and it was found that, the highest rainwater use efficiency of 1.818 kg ha-1 mm-1 was observed under 2.50×2.75 m, compartment bund size, followed by 1.742 kg ha-1 mm-1 under 2.50×3.50 m compartment bund size, 1.66 kg ha-1 mm-1under 2.50×4.00 m compartment bund size and observed least under control treatment as 1.363 kg ha-1 mm-1. The water productivity under different treatments were compared and it was found that the highest water productivity of 0.857 kg m-3 was observed under 2.50×2.75 m, compartment bund size, followed by 0.821 kg m-3 under 2.50×3.50 m compartment bund size, 0.786 kg m-3 under 2.50×4.00 m compartment bund size and observed least under control treatment as 0.571 kg m-3. ','Compartment bunds, rainwater use efficiency, water productivity, DMRT','The present studies result clearly showed that the variable size compartment bunds not only conserve soil moisture for longer duration but also increases the crop productivity up to 20 per cent. The compartment bunds was mainly worked out for retaining soil moisture for longer duration and it was observed that, in compartment bunds soil moisture was retained up to 30 days whereas, field without compartment bunds conserve moisture for 19 days only. After rainfall soil moisture profile was recorded at three different depths i.e. 5, 15 and 30 cm in compartment bunds and control field and it was observed that moisture at 5, 15 and 30 cm depth after 14th day of rainfall was 5, 13 and 24 per cent for compartment bunds and 3, 5.5 and 7 per cent for control field and at last after 30 days soil moisture of compartment bunds was observed as 3, 7.5 and 12 percent whereas the control treatment was completely dry. The highest rainwater use efficiency of 1.818 kg ha-1 mm-1 was observed under 2.50×2.75 m compartment bund size as compared to their bund sizes and observed least under control treatment as 1.363 kg ha-1 mm-1.\r\nThe water productivity under different treatments were compared and it was found that the highest water productivity of 0.857 kg m-3 was observed under 2.50×2.75 m compartment bund size, followed by 0.821 kg m-3 under 2.50×3.50 m compartment bund size, 0,786 kg m-3 under 2.50×4.00 m compartment bund size and observed least under control treatment as0.571 kg m-3. Hence it is showed that in all ways compartment bund size 2.50×2.75 m is best suitable for soil moisture retention, rainwater use efficiency and water productivity and therefore recommended for field conditions.\r\n','-','Kalbande Vishal Dashrathrao, Sunil Shirwal, M. Veerangouda, Sushilendra, Rajkumar R. Halidoddi, Mareappa Hirekurubaru, Murali M. and Rahul Patil (2023). Effect of Variable Size Compartment Bunds on Soil Moisture, Rainwater use Efficiency and Water Productivity of Green Gram in Semi-arid Region. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 15(4): 814-819.'),(6578,'157','Stability Study for Yield and its Contributive Traits in Sesame (Sesamum indicum L.)','Uikey Kirtikumar N., Deshmukh D.T., Mohurle N.A., Vaidya E.R., Gomashe S.S., Durge D.V. and Walke R.D. ','Stability-Study-for-Yield-and-its-Contributive-Traits-in-Sesame-(Sesamum-indicum-L.)-Kirtikumar-N-Uikey-9.pdf','',1,'Sesame is important oilseed crop. Due to fluctuation in the environments the yield and productivity badly affected in sesame. Present investigation is useful to develop the new varieties using stable genotypes as a parent in crossing programme. Therefore, sixty sesame genotypes with 3 checks, AKT-64, AKT-101 and PKV-NT-11 for eleven quantitative characters assessed at three environments in season summer 2018-19 to estimate the stability performance using Eberhart and Russel model (1966). The g x e (linear) interaction exhibited significance for the characters days to 50% flowering, days to maturity, plant height, number of capsules plant-1 and seed yield plant-1 and significant for number of branches plant-1. The environment + (G × E) remained highly significant for all traits excluding capsule breadth, length of capsule and oil content. Significance of environment (linear) constituent for all the traits checks the observations of broadly differing environments. Among sixty germplasm, genotype IC- 203884 (16) for days to 50% flowering and seed yield plant-1 (g) and genotype DS-46-3 (51) for number of capsules plant-1, number of seed capsule-1 and seed yield plant-1 (g) were identified stable.','Sesame, germplasm, stability analysis, phenotypic stability G × E interaction','As yield is prime character, the investigation determined that genotypes IC- 203884 (16), DS-46-3 (51) and IS-157-A (54) recognised as stable with high mean value for seed.','-','Uikey Kirtikumar N., Deshmukh D.T., Mohurle N.A., Vaidya E.R., Gomashe S.S., Durge D.V. and Walke R.D. (2023). Stability Study for Yield and its Contributive Traits in Sesame (Sesamum indicum L.). Biological Forum – An International Journal, 15(5): 56-61.'),(6579,'157','To Assess the Knowledge, Awareness and Utilization of People Regarding PMJAY – Ayushman Bharat Yojana and Mahatma Jyotiba Phule Jan Arogya Yojana in Rural Areas of Rahata Taluka, Maharashtra','Manmohan Sharma, Swanand D. Tilekar and Manasi V. Shelgaonkar','To-Assess-the-Knowledge,-Awareness-and-Utilization-of-People-Regarding-PMJAY-–-Ayushman-Bharat-Yojana-and-Mahatma-Jyotiba-Phule-Jan-Arogya-Yojana-in-Rural-Areas-of-Rahata-Taluka,-Maharash-Manmohan-Sharma-10.pdf','',1,'Providing affordable adequate primary, secondary and tertiary-level care is a major challenge in India, where the majority pay from pocket or rely on their assets. The government sought to prevent healthcare indebtedness through a nationwide health assurance scheme Ayushman Bharat - Pradhan Mantri Jan Arogya Yojana (AB – PMJAY) covering Rs. 5 lakhs per annum for Below Poverty Line (BPL) families per Socio-Economic Caste Census under which >50 crores Indians have been covered. Mahatma Jyotiba Phule Jan Arogya Yojana (MJPJAY), the Government of Maharashtra’s flagship health insurance scheme, covers Rs. 1.5 lakhs annually to BPL and APL families covering >60 lakh beneficiaries. Assess the level of knowledge, awareness and utilization of AB - PMJAY and MJPJAY. Data collection tool: Predesigned, validated, and standardized questionnaire. Sample size: 383. Rural area of Rahata Taluka, Maharashtra. Families who are beneficiaries or have not availed of the scheme to date. Cross-sectional descriptive. Multi-stage sampling - Cluster Sampling technique for villages and sample selection using simple random sampling technique. Out of the 383, among the cardholders, 6.27% and 14.36% of households had availed of the AB-PMJAY and MJPJAY schemes in the last 1 year. For AB-PMJAY: 0.5% and MJPJAY: 0% cardholders had to pay an additional amount for registration. Out-of-pocket expenditure reduction on healthcare is sardonic due to a lack of awareness about the facilities that can be prevailed in the government and empanelled private hospitals under the schemes. Promotion regarding self and facility registration on the scheme’s portal through Community health workers and the government’s digital platforms is needed to increase knowledge, awareness and utilization. Many people denied participating in the study as we were not generating the Ayushman Bharat and MJPJAY cards on the spot. We faced difficulty getting written consent from the participants as we were not the representatives of their society.','Ayushman Bharat Yojana, Knowledge, Utilization, Health assurance scheme, Out of pocket expenditure','Out-of-pocket expenditure reduction on healthcare is not up to the mark due to a lack of awareness about the facilities that can be prevailed in the government and empanelled in private hospitals under the schemes. Knowledge about various characteristics of both the schemes is very less among the population due to less reach of the IEC materials in the villages and on the digital platforms of the state and central governments regarding the information about the schemes. Promotion regarding self and facility registration on the scheme’s portal through Community health workers and the government’s digital platforms is needed to increase knowledge, awareness and utilization. ','-','Manmohan Sharma, Swanand D. Tilekar and Manasi V. Shelgaonkar (2023). To Assess the Knowledge, Awareness and Utilization of People Regarding PMJAY – Ayushman Bharat Yojana and Mahatma Jyotiba Phule Jan Arogya Yojana in Rural Areas of Rahata Taluka, Maharashtra. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 15(5): 62-68.'),(6580,'156','Development and Evaluation of Pre-gelatinized Malted Millet Mix by using Pearl and Foxtail millet','Komara Vinay Promod Kumar, B. Murugan, T.R. Pugazhenthi, V. Perasiriyan \r\nand N. Karpoora Sundara Pandian','Development-and-Evaluation-of-Pre-gelatinized-Malted-Millet-Mix-by-using-Pearl-and-Foxtail-millet-Komara-Vinay-Promod-Kumar-136.pdf','',1,'Malting is an low cost and potent method for improving the nutritional quality of food grains by enhancing their digestion and decreasing the contents of anti nutritional factors. Malting result by biochemical modification includes increase in free amino acids and total sugars and decrease in starch content, and increased protein quality. Malted mix was prepared from germinated malted foxtail and pearl millet flour with addition of skim milk powder and cocoa powder. Alpha amylase activity of pearl and foxtail millets were 144±0.51 and 179.67±0.33 μ moles of maltose respectively. Vitamin C content of the foxtail and pearl millets were 9.17±0.05 and 9.02±0.04 mg/100g respectively. Sensory analysis involving 15 semi trained panel members concluded that the combination (T4) of foxtail millet flour (20 g), pearl millet flour (55 g), skim milk powder (5g) cocoa powder (10g) and sugar powder(10g) have more acceptance compared to other proportion of the combinations. The results of sensory scores for the T4were appearance (8.26±0.88), colour (8.06±0.30), flavour (7.67±0.33), taste (7.80±0.26) and overall acceptability (7.87±0.30). The combinations of germinated and malted foxtail and pearl millet flour enhanced the nutritive value of the product with vitamin C content, dietary fibre, amino acids, anti-oxidants and minerals.','Malting, Amylase activity, Foxtail millet, Pearl millet, Sensory analysis','Millet based malted pre-gelatinized mixes are nutritionally rich in dietary fibre compared to malted products available in the market. Eight millets were subjected to germination and Vitamin C and alpha amylase activity were analysed. Based on Vitamin C and alpha amylase activity, two millets, viz., pearl and foxtail millets were selected. Germination significantly increased after germination in millets and the percentage increase in Vitamin C after germination was highest in foxtail millet followed by pearl millet. Alpha amylase activity was found to be higher among pearl and foxtail millets. Among all the treatments, T4consisting of 20 parts of pre-gelatinized foxtail millet flour, 55 parts of pre-gelatinized pearl millet flour, 5 parts of cocoa powder, 10 parts of skim milk powder and 10 parts of sugar powder was highly accepted by the panel of semi trained persons.','-','Komara Vinay Promod Kumar, B. Murugan, T.R. Pugazhenthi, V. Perasiriyan and N. Karpoora Sundara Pandian (2023). Development and Evaluation of Pre-gelatinized Malted Millet Mix by using Pearl and Foxtail millet. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 15(4): 820-823.'),(6581,'153','Fixed Point Theorems in Complete Metric Spaces for Weakly Compatible Mappings','Satyendra Ahirwar, Arun Kumar Garg and Z.K. Ansari','Fixed Point Theorems in Complete Metric Spaces for Weakly Compatible Mappings-Arun Kumar Garg-4.pdf','',1,'Present paper, has two fixed point theorems in complete metric space. For proving theorems; we use concept of weakly compatible mappings for four mappings using  property.','Cauchy sequence, weakly compatible mapping,  property. Complete metric space','-','-','Satyendra Ahirwar, Arun Kumar Garg and Z.K. Ansari (2023). Fixed Point Theorems in Complete Metric Spaces for Weakly Compatible Mappings. International Journal on Emerging Technologies, 14(1): 16-22.'),(6582,'153','Bibliographical Review of Monitoring and Controlling Technique for Earthing System','Rahul Agarwal, Swati Gade, M. Ahfaz Khan and Nagendra Singh','Bibliographical Review of Monitoring and Controlling Technique for Earthing System -Rahul Agarwal-5.pdf','',1,'Grounding is a protection method that uses a grounding electrode placed in the ground to pass leakage current from an electrical system to the earth. Rod electrodes, plate electrodes, mesh-connected electrodes, and other types of grounding electrodes can be used. To safeguard the safety of working employees and costly installed equipment in the substation, a low resistance path for the discharge of short circuit fault current is required. Furthermore, soil resistivity, mineral content, soil moisture, and temperature, particularly owing to weather fluctuations, have an impact on earth resistance value. As a result, a grounding system that can be monitored and regulated automatically is required to prevent a rise in the value of earth resistance owing to weather change. In this paper, the literature review of earthing resistance measurement and monitoring techniques, along with the designing of grounding system for the substation is presented. An electrical ground is the source point in an electrical circuit from which voltage is measured or a direct physical connection to the earth. An exhaustive literature survey has been carried out in the present study to show the present trend and the methodology used in the earthing system.','Earthing, Continuous monitoring, earth resistance','This paper presents an overview of designing grounding systems and earth resistance monitoring techniques. This study presents the different techniques for monitoring and controlling earthing system of substation, grounding grid, etc. The paper provides the current trend in grounding which is useful for the researcher and utilities working in the field of electrical earthing.','-','Rahul Agarwal, Swati Gade, M. Ahfaz Khan and Nagendra Singh (2023). Bibliographical Review of Monitoring and Controlling Technique for Earthing System. International Journal on Emerging Technologies, 14(1): 23–29.'),(6583,'157','An In silico Study on Lipid Lowering Activity of Sophorin','Anant Kumar Patel and Nandu Rangnath Kayande','An-In-silico-Study-on-Lipid-Lowering-Activity-of-Sophorin-Anant-Kumar-Patel-11.pdf','',1,'Hyperlipidemia is a well-known risk factor for cardiovascular disease. Some herbs, like sophorin, have been reported as having hypolipidemic properties, which means they could potentially lower cholesterol levels. Sophorin is also known as Rutin. It is difficult to test a plant compound directly for lipid disorder and this problem is overcome by the use of molecular docking study because it does not involve any ethical issue. While there is some evidence to support this claim, there is also conflicting data in the literature. Further research would be necessary to confirm these findings and fully understand their effects. To address this issue, scientists often use in silico studies, including computer simulations such as molecular docking, to investigate how different substances interact with proteins in the body. Molecular docking can aid in identifying potential compounds for lipid disorder treatment, providing valuable insights for drug discovery and development. The goal of study is to explore whether certain natural products may be effective in treating high cholesterol, or hyperlipidemia, using computational methods. Study began by selecting candidate compound based on existing scientific literature and then retrieved a digital model of the compound from the pubchem database. Next, accessed a crystallographic structure of the relevant protein (PDB ID: 1HW9) from the Protein Data Bank. After cleaning up the structure to remove any non-essential elements, we utilized special software called biovia discovery program to identify possible active binding sites where our chosen compound might fit perfectly into place. With all this preparation done, molecular docking simulation study has been conducted using pyrx tool. ADME study is also performed using pkCSM web tool. Analysis indicates that the selected natural product, namely saphorin, had higher affinity towards the protein compared to the commercial drug atorvastatin. As a conclusion, experiment demonstrates that saphorin has significant potential to serve as an alternative treatment option for patients suffering from hyperlipidemia. ','ADME, Cholesterol, Molecular Docking, Herb, HMG-CoA reductase, Antihyperlipidemic Agent, Lipid Disorder, Atorvastatin, quercetin-3-O-rutinoside','In conclusion, the use of plant compounds for managing lipid disorders has shown promising results as an alternative to allopathic drugs. Plant compounds such as flavonoids, polyphenols, and terpenoids have been found to possess lipid-lowering properties and can potentially reduce the risk of cardiovascular diseases. Moreover, plant compounds have fewer side effects compared to allopathic drugs, making them a safer option for long-term use. However, further research is needed to validate the efficacy and safety of plant compounds for managing lipid disorders. In the future, the use of plant compounds for managing lipid disorders may become more widespread, especially as more people seek natural and holistic approaches to healthcare. Additionally, the development of novel plant-based therapies and the identification of new plant compounds with lipid-lowering properties may lead to the discovery of new treatments for managing lipid disorders. The in silico study of rutin for lipid lowering activity against HMG-CoA reductase has provided valuable insights into the potential of rutin as a therapeutic agent for managing hyperlipidemia. The study utilized molecular docking and molecular dynamics simulations to investigate the binding interactions between rutin and HMG-CoA reductase, and the results suggest that rutin has a high binding affinity for the enzyme\'s active site. Additionally, the study revealed that rutin can potentially inhibit the activity of HMG-CoA reductase, which is a key enzyme involved in cholesterol biosynthesis. These findings provide a strong foundation for further studies to validate the lipid-lowering activity of rutin and its potential as a therapeutic agent for managing hyperlipidemia.','-','Anant Kumar Patel and Nandu Rangnath Kayande (2023). An In silico Study on Lipid Lowering Activity of Sophorin. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 15(5): 69-80.'),(6584,'157','Integrating Malathion with Wheat Herbicides for Managing Resistance in Phalaris minor','Anmol, V.S. Hooda, Navish Kumar and B.K. Dhaka','Integrating-Malathion-with-Wheat-Herbicides-for-Managing-Resistance-in-Phalaris-minor-BK-Dhaka-12.pdf','',1,'For sustainable wheat production management of Phalaris minor are the major challenge. A field experiment with three replications was conducted at Research Farm of Agronomy, CCS Haryana Agricultural University, Hisar using seven post-emergence herbicides, including clodinafop 12% + metribuzin 42% (RM) (Shagun), clodinafop 9% + metribuzin 20% (RM) (ACM-9), metribuzin, pinoxaden, sulfosulfuron, isoproturon, meso+iodosulfuron, and their integration with malathion at various doses along with weed free and weedy check treatments. After the crop had been sown for 34 days, all of the treatments were applied. When using herbicides alone, pinoxaden consistently outperformed all other herbicides in terms of taller plants and higher yield attributes. However, when using herbicides in combination with malathion, all but malathion fb pinoxaden, the values of these parameters significantly decreased. Wheat plots with no weeds produced a greater grain yield (5764 kg ha-1), which was closely followed by the plots treated with 50g/ha of pinoxaden. The phytotoxicity of various herbicidal treatments decreased over successive intervals, and none of the treatments still had any detectable phytotoxicity at 60 DAT. When herbicides were used in conjunction with malathion as compared to alone, a higher level of weed control efficiency was observed. Pinoxaden applied at 50 g ha-1 was determined to be the most effective treatments for managing weeds and had the greatest B:C of 1.82 followed by malathion fb pinoxaden (1000 fb 50 g ha-1) and clodinafop 9% + metribuzin 20% (RM) (ACM-9) at 174 g ha-1. ','Phalaris minor, weed, herbicide resistance, wheat, metribuzin, clodinafop, pinoxaden, malathion','According to the current study, use of wheat herbicides both separately and in combination with malathion effectively controlled P. minor by achieving higher WCE (%) and increased the growth and yield of wheat. Compared to their solitary application, spraying herbicides integrated with malathion was observed to be more successful at controlling weeds but due to phytotoxicity, yield penalties were there except in pinoxaden and isoproturon. Therefore, pinoxaden (50 g ha-1) can be used for controlling weeds in wheat crops while increasing wheat production and generating economic returns with better weed control efficiency without having any phytotoxic effect on wheat crop. ','-','Anmol, V.S. Hooda, Navish Kumar and B.K. Dhaka (2023). Integrating Malathion with Wheat Herbicides for Managing Resistance in Phalaris minor. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 15(5): 81-86.'),(6585,'147','Bio Efficacy of Fungicides, Botanicals, Bioagents and Organic amendments against S. rolfsii causing Stem Rot Disease of Groundnut','P. Manasa, A.K. Senapati, S.K. Dwibedi and Sandeep Kumar','Bio-Efficacy-of-Fungicides,-Botanicals,-Bioagents-and-Organic-amendments-against-S.-rolfsii-causing-Stem-Rot-Disease-of-Groundnut-P-Manasa-122.pdf','',1,'Groundnut (Arachis hypogaea L.) is one of the world\'s major oil seed crops grown in both tropical and subtropical regions, suffers from many fungal diseases resulting in severe yield loss among those diseases stem rot which is a soil-borne disease caused by Sclerotium rolfsii Sacc. is the major yield-limiting factor. The present investigation is on in vitro evaluation of different fungicides, botanicals, bioagents and organic amendments against S. rolfsii to develop an integrated disease management approach against stem rot disease of groundnut. In vitro, studies revealed that Tebuconazole, Nativo, Hexaconazole, and Vitavax were found to be highly effective and completely inhibited (100 %) the mycelial growth of Sclerotium rolfsii at all three concentrations tested compared to other fungicides. Among botanicals, neem leaf extract(78.50 % @20%) highly inhibited the mycelial growth of S. rolfsii, whereas Trichoderma harzianum (71.10 %) exhibited maximum antifungal properties compared to other tested bioagents. Among organic amendments tested neem cake (52.80 %) was found to be effective against the mycelial growth of S. rolfsii. Overall, it is suggested that the use of effective fungicides and potential bioagents, botanicals and organic amendments may result in better management of stem rot disease of groundnut.','Sclerotium rolfsii Sacc., in vitro, fungicides, botanicals, bio-agents, organic amendments','The results of the current research reported that among fungicides tested Tebuconazole, Nativo, Hexaconazole, Vitavax were found to be highly effective and completely inhibited mycelial growth of Sclerotium rolfsii at all different concentrations tested (each @ 1000, 1500, and 2000 ppm). Neem leaf extract found to have high antifungal properties compared to other botanicals tested irrespective of concentrations. Among bio agents tested Trichoderma harzianum highly inhibited the mycelial growth of S. rolfsii followed by Pseudomonas florescensare found to be efficacious compared to others. Neem seed cake was found to show high inhibition of mycelial growth of S. rolfsii followed by FYM in compared to other organic amendments. Fungicide application, while effective, is costly and may harm associated microbiota in soil, making it hazardous to the environment. As a result, the current study intends to to develop an environmentally friendly disease management system by integrating chemicals with bioagents, plant extracts, and organic amendments, which will be the best alternative to control the disease.','-','P. Manasa, A.K. Senapati, S.K. Dwibedi and Sandeep Kumar (2022). Bio Efficacy of Fungicides, Botanicals, Bioagents and Organic amendments against S. rolfsii causing Stem Rot Disease of Groundnut. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 14(4a): 715-722.'),(6586,'157','Purification and Characterization of Novel Alkaline Serine Protease from Bacillus firmus BAAP-43 isolated from Tannery Industries Soil','Anusuya Balan and Venkatachalam Palanisamy','Purification-and-Characterization-of-Novel-Alkaline-Serine-Protease-from-Bacillus-firmus-BAAP-43-isolated-from-Tannery-Industries-Soil-Anusuya-Balan-13.pdf','',1,'Enzymes are well-known biocatalysts that may economically expedite and facilitate operations in a variety of sectors, including the detergent, food, pharmaceuticals, and biotechnology industries, by catalysing chemical reactions. An extracellular alkaline serine protease from Bacillus firmus BAAP-43 was purified by ammonium sulfate precipitation, DEAE- Cellulose and followed by Sephadex G-100. Overall yield was 18.7% and molecular weight of the purified enzyme was 30.2 kDa. pH 9.5, temperature 45°C and 1% NaCl showed maximum enzyme activity. Stability of the enzyme was pH 8.0 to 9.5 and temperature upto 50°C. Enzyme was completely inhibited by PMSF and it is an alkaline serine protease. Ca2+ increased the activity of the enzyme and surfactants SDS were slightly inhibited enzyme activity. Among the various organic solvents such as acetone and methanol enhanced the activity. The enzyme showed compatibility with commercial detergents Surf excel improved the cleaning activity. Enzyme showed the high specificity of casein. This study may be the first on the extracellular alkaline serine protease from Bacillus firmus BAAP-43. Formulation of detergents is incessantly developed to improve the cleaning effectiveness and to adapt the fulfil market demands. Thus, it can be considered a potentially powerful detergent agent.','Purification, Characterization, Extracellular alkaline serine protease, Bacillus firmus BAAP-43','Bacillus species producing alkaline proteases have significant commercial value because of their wide range of biochemical uses in industries like food, medicine, detergents, silver recovery, and waste management. These properties make alkaline proteases as the best and suitable candidate for industrial applications employing higher temperatures along with shorter reaction times and low risk of contamination. The present study was focused on characterization of alkaline serine protease from Bacillus firmus BAAP-43. The purified alkaline serine protease has high stability with wide range of pH, temperature, NaCl, metal ions, organic solvents, surfactants, protein inhibitors and detergents. The present investigation showed that the enzyme produced by Bacillus firmus BAAP-43 is suitable for commercial exploitation as a detergent agent in detergent industries. It could be further explored for other applications also in many industries.','-','Anusuya Balan and Venkatachalam Palanisamy (2023). Purification and Characterization of Novel Alkaline Serine Protease from Bacillus firmus BAAP-43 isolated from Tannery Industries Soil. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 15(5): 87-92.'),(6587,'157','Influence of Supplementary Carbon and Nitrogen Sources on Pyrene Degradation by Aspergillus lacticoffeatus Isolated from Crude Oil-contaminated Soil','Veeramani Veerasamy, Gowri Manogari Boovaragamoorthy and Thamaraiselvi Kaliannan','Influence-of-Supplementary-Carbon-and-Nitrogen-Sources-on-Pyrene-Degradation-by-Aspergillus-lacticoffeatus-Isolated-from-Crude-Oil-contaminated-Soil-Veeramani-Veerasamy-14.pdf','',1,'Polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbon is the most prevalent environmental pollutant. In this study, pyrene degrading fungi, Aspergillus lacticoffeatus, was isolated from crude oil-contaminated soil from Oil and Natural Gas Corporation (ONGC) Karaikal. A. lacticoffeatus is optimized for pyrene degradation in the medium amended with different nitrogen and carbon sources. Among the carbon sources, it was found that pyrene degradation was significant with sucrose compared to glucose, fructose, maltose, and starch. The ammonium chloride nitrogen source provided better degradation than ammonium sulfate, ammonium nitrate, calcium nitrate, and sodium nitrate. Maximum pyrene removal was obtained in the combination of sucrose and ammonium chloride (84.91%), and physical parameters like pH (6.00) and temperature (35°C) provided a better degradation in a period of 30 days. Overall, the study identified glucose and sucrose as suitable carbon sources and ammonium chloride as a suitable nitrogen source for pyrene degradation.','Pyrene degradation, Polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbon, Carbon sources, Nitrogen sources, Aspergillus lacticoffeatus','This study dealt with isolating a novel strain of Aspergillus lacticoffeatus isolated from a crude oil-contaminated site for effective pyrene degradation. Results showed significant variance in the growth and pyrene removal pattern for Aspergillus lacticoffeatus for different carbon and nitrogen sources. High mycelial biomass and pyrene degradation in glucose and sucrose-containing medium was seen in the presence of ammonium chloride as a nitrogen source. Among glucose and sucrose, sucrose was seen to be more effective for removing pyrene with ammonium chloride by Aspergillus lacticoffeatus. Hence this fungal strain showed promising properties for the effective degradation of pyrene.','-','Veeramani Veerasamy, Gowri Manogari Boovaragamoorthy and Thamaraiselvi Kaliannan (2023). Influence of Supplementary Carbon and Nitrogen Sources on Pyrene Degradation by Aspergillus lacticoffeatus Isolated from Crude Oil-contaminated Soil. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 15(5): 93-98.'),(6588,'157','Differential Expression of AGO1a/AGO1b in Chilli in Response to Chilli Leaf Curl virus Infection','Oinam Washington Singh, Thokchom Nepolian Singh, Vishnu Anand, \r\nSachin Gangwar and S. Naveen Nayaka','Differential-Expression-of-AGO1aAGO1b-in-Chilli-in-Response-to-Chilli-Leaf-Curl-virus-Infection-Oinam-Washington-Singh-15.pdf','',1,'RNA silencing, mediated by small interfering RNAs (siRNAs) and microRNAs (miRNAs), is a defensive pathway used by plants to combat invading nucleic acids. Argonaute (AGO) proteins play a central role in orchestrating this process and are involved in antiviral defense mechanisms. While the involvement of AGO1 in response to RNA viruses has been extensively studied, its expression levels in DNA virus infections remain understudied. In this study, we investigated the expression levels AGO1a and AGO1b genes in response to chilli leaf curl virus (ChiLCV) infection, a DNA virus that infects chilli plants at different days post virus inoculation. Semi-qPCR and qPCR analysis showed a significant increase in the expression levels of both AGO1a and AGO1b transcripts in response to ChiLCV infection compared to control plants. These findings provide valuable insights into the involvement of AGO1 proteins in the plant\'s defense against DNA viruses and expand our understanding of the RNA silencing pathway in antiviral responses. This study could be helpful in developing strategies for viral disease management of DNA viruses through modulating the levels or activity of AGO proteins and its interacting miRNAs.','RNAi, Argonauts, chilli leaf curl virus, differential gene expression','In this study, the expression level AGO1 gene, a central regulatory protein involved in inducing the first line of defense in plants against viruses was investigated in response to ChiLVC infection. Semi-qPCR and qPCR analyses revealed significant upregulation of AGO1a and AGO1b transcripts in virus-infected plants compared to control plants. The over expression of AGO1a and AGO1b suggests their crucial roles in the defense response against invading viruses. This research contributes to our understanding of the involvement of AGO1 proteins in plant antiviral defense mechanisms in chilli against chilli leaf curl virus infection.','-','Oinam Washington Singh, Thokchom Nepolian Singh, Vishnu Anand, Sachin Gangwar and S. Naveen Nayaka (2023). Differential Expression of AGO1a/AGO1b in Chilli in Response to Chilli Leaf Curl virus Infection. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 15(5): 99-103.'),(6589,'157','Wound Healing Potential of Bioactive Compound from Cayratia trifolia (L.): An In silico and In Vitro analysis','Bhuvaneswari Meganathan and Mani Panagal','Wound-Healing-Potential-of-Bioactive-Compound-from-Cayratia-trifolia-(L.)-An-In-Silico-and-in-vitro-analysis-Mani-Panagal-16.pdf','',1,'The process of wound healing involves replacing damaged cellular structures with functional ones. Wounds have been treated with medicinal plants and their active compounds for thousands of years. Chinese and Indian traditional medicines have proven effective in healing. Medicinal plant of Cayratia trifolia L (C. trifolia) has variety of phytocompounds and they extracts possess antiviral, antibacterial, antiprotozoal, hypoglycemic, anticancer, and wound healing properties. Therefore, in this study ethanolic extract of C. trifolia was investigated to determine its bioactivity, structure, and wound healing capability of bioactive compound. Initially, linolenyl alcohol (cmd-1) was identified by chromatographic and spectroscopic methods. Even at highest concentrations of 200 µg/ml in normal fibroblasts cell lines of Normal Human Dermal Fibroblasts cells (NHDF) and Human Umbilical Vein Endothelial cells (HUVEC), it does not appear to be cytotoxic. Molecular docking studies revealed that, when compared with reference drug, cmd-1 have strong binding affinity with wound healing related target proteins such as PKC βII (Protein kinase C βII), TNF-α (Tumor necrosis factor alpha), IL-1β (Interleukin-1 beta), PDGFRA (Platelet-derived growth factor receptor alpha), VEGF-A (Vascular endothelial growth factor A) and TGFBR1 (Transforming Growth Factor Beta Receptor 1) and docking score ranges from -3.8 to -7.1 Kcal/mol. These compounds exhibited acceptable ADME properties. As a result of this study, it can be concluded that the isolated bioactive compound of linolenyl alcohol may be able to heal wounds. Experiments in vitro and in vivo are needed to confirm these findings.','Cayratia trifolia L., linolenyl alcohol, Molecular docking, Wound healing','Linolenyl alcohol was isolated and identified by chromatographic and spectroscopic methods from ethanolic extracts of C. trifolia. NHDF and HUVEC fibroblast cell lines were not cytotoxic by cmd-1 at highest concentrations of 200 µg/mL in in vitro cytotoxicity analysis. A computational docking study associated with cmd-1 also observed that it was able to interact well with wound healing targets PDGFRA, VEGF-A, and TGFBR1 kinase with docking scores ranging from -3.8 to -7.1 Kcal/mol. Those compounds showed acceptable ADME properties. This study concludes that linolenyl alcohol isolated from ethanolic extract of C. trifolia may have wound healing properties based on its in vitro and in silico results. For the current funding to be confirmed, further analysis of in vitro and in vivo experimental animal models is needed.','-','Bhuvaneswari Meganathan and Mani Panagal (2023). Wound Healing Potential of Bioactive Compound from Cayratia trifolia (L.): An in silico and in vitro analysis. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 15(5): 104-113.'),(6590,'157','Marketing of Broiler Birds under Contract and Non-Contract Broiler Farming in Bengaluru South Transect – A Comparative Analysis','A. Sree Lakshmi, M.R. Girish and Mamatha Girish','Marketing-of-Broiler-Birds-under-Contract-and-Non-Contract-Broiler-Farming-in-Bengaluru-South-Transect-A-Comparative-Analysis-A Sree Lakshmi-17.pdf','',1,'The present study attempted to analyse the marketing of broiler birds by both contract and non-contract broiler famers in Bengaluru South. For the study, 30 contract and 30 non-contract broiler famers were randomly selected. Shepherd’s and Acharya’s methods were used to calculate the marketing efficiency of broiler farming. The marketing channels for broilers in the study area involved four major intermediaries, viz., integrators, wholesalers, processors, and retailers. In the case of contract farming, two channels were prevalent, viz., Channel I: Producers / Growers (Contract Farmers) – Integrators – Wholesalers – Retailers / Butchers – Consumers; and Channel II: Producers / Growers (Contract Farmers) – Integrators – Processors – Consumers. The contract farmers were paid Rs. 6.20/- per kg of the bird’s weight as rearing charges by the integrators. In the case of non-contract farming, the price paid by the ultimate consumer in Channel I (Producer – Wholesalers – Retailers – Consumers) and Channel II (Producers – Wholesalers – Processors – Consumers) was Rs. 182/- per kg and Rs. 356/- per kg, respectively. Accordingly, the marketing efficiency was 16.38 per cent and 17.94 per cent in Channel I and Channel II, respectively, thereby, indicating that Channel II was relatively more efficient than Channel I in marketing of broiler birds by non-contract farmers. The major production constraints faced by contract broiler farmers were disease outbreak, inadequate availability of labour, and high wages; whereas, sourcing of quality inputs, disease outbreak, and high feed cost were the major production constraints faced by non-contract broiler farmers. Among the marketing constraints, price fluctuation and inadequate access to market information were the major constraints faced by both contract and non-contract broiler farmers. The major challenge of the research work was getting reliable information from integrators pertaining to all aspects of contract farming.','Marketing, Contract broiler farming, Non-contract broiler farming, Price spread, efficiency, constraints','In the study area, broiler marketing involved four intermediaries, viz., integrators, traders, processors, and retailers. In the case of contract farming, two channels were prevalent, viz., Channel I: Producers / Growers (Contract Farmers) – Integrators – Wholesalers – Retailers / Butchers – Consumers; and Channel II: Producers / Growers (Contract Farmers) – Integrators – Processors – Consumers. The contract farmers did not sell their broilers directly to consumers, but rather through these intermediaries. The contract farmers were paid Rs. 6.20/- per kg of the bird’s weight as rearing charges by the integrators. The marketing cost was higher in Channel II (Rs. 27,426/- per ton) when compared to that of Channel I (Rs. 5965/- per ton) as the cost of processing of birds alone accounted for Rs. 21,496/- per ton. In the case of non-contract farming, the price paid by the ultimate consumer in Channel I (Producer – Wholesalers – Retailers – Consumers) and Channel II (Producers – Wholesalers – Processors – Consumers) was Rs. 182/- per kg and Rs. 356/- per kg, respectively. Accordingly, the marketing efficiency was 16.38 per cent and 17.94 per cent in Channel I and Channel II, respectively, thereby, indicating that Channel II was relatively more efficient than Channel I in marketing of broiler birds by non-contract farmers. The major production constraints faced by contract broiler farmers were disease outbreak, inadequate availability of labour and high wages; whereas, sourcing of quality inputs, disease outbreak and high feed cost were the major production constraints faced by non-contract broiler farmer. Among the marketing constraints, price fluctuations and inadequate access to market information were the major constraints faced by both contract and non-contract broiler farmers. The study suggests that increasing the rearing charges offered by the integrators can potentially lead to higher profits for contract farmers. Additionally, providing training to non-contract farmers regarding inputs, rearing, and marketing can help mitigate some of the risks associated with non-contract broiler farming.','-','A. Sree Lakshmi, M.R. Girish and Mamatha Girish (2023). Marketing of Broiler Birds under Contract and Non-Contract Broiler Farming in Bengaluru South Transect – A Comparative Analysis. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 15(5): 114-120.'),(6591,'157','A Comparative Study of Prevalence of Obesity among Adolescent boys and girls in the Capital city of Odisha, India','Jyotirmayee Udgata and Chinmayee Sahoo','A-Comparative-Study-of-Prevalence-of-Obesity-among-Adolescent-boys-and-girls-in-the-Capital-city-of-Odisha,-India-Jyotirmayee-Udgata-18.pdf','',1,'The incidence of obesity among adolescents is being raised across the globe. The adolescents with obesity are at higher risk of chronic diseases like cardiovascular diseases, high blood pressure, diabetes, high cholesterol, metabolic disorder etc. Apart from this they face psychological problems like depression, anxiety and develop low self-esteem and strained peer relationship due to distorted body image. There are many contemporary researches in this area. But the researcher focussed here on comparative analysis of prevalence of obesity among adolescent boys and girls. The present study revealed the prevalence of obesity among boys and girls who belongs to the age group of 13 to 18 years. There were 120 samples chosen at random from different locations of Bhubaneswar, the capital city of Odisha by home visit method. Descriptive statistics like percentage, frequency and correlation coefficient are used to analyse the data. The findings reveal that, the girls were comparatively more obese than boys in their late adolescence than early adolescence. Irrespective of their sex, all of them were found to be in the Grade-I obesity category. Weight, height, and WHR (Waist-Hip Ratio), all exhibited a positive correlation with BMI (Body Mass Index).','Adolescents, overweight, obesity, BMI (Body Mass Index), WHR (Waist Hip Ratio)','It was discovered through comparative analysis that girls were more obese than boys. Likewise, girls in their late adolescence are bulkier than those in their early adolescence. The same is true for boys as it is for girls. Regardless of their sexual orientation, they were all classified to be in Grade-I obesity. As we know Grade-I obesity levels can be reduced by preventive measures, becoming more health conscious in terms of healthy food habits and judicious consumption of the right kind of food. The majority of families in today\'s society are nuclear, and parents rarely push their kids to work and exercise. As a result, they are spending their leisure time in watching television, using their smartphones, and using computers. They disrupt their eating routines and sit for extended periods of time to complete all these tasks. The main causes of adolescent obesity are lack of exercise and excessive calorie intake from junk food and soft drinks.','-','Jyotirmayee Udgata and Chinmayee Sahoo (2023). A Comparative Study of Prevalence of Obesity among Adolescent boys and girls in the Capital city of Odisha, India. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 15(5): 121-124.'),(6592,'157','Assessing the Phylogenetic Relationships of Baliospermum solanifolium [B. montanum (Willd.) Müll. Arg.] in South India through DNA Barcoding','Karthik S., Basker S., Dheeban Shankar P., Senthil Kumar N., Sarathbabu S. and Saravanan K. ','Assessing-the-Phylogenetic-Relationships-of-Baliospermum-solanifolium-[B.-montanum-(Willd.)-Müll.-Arg.]-in-South-India-through-DNA-Barcoding-Karthik-S-19.pdf','',1,'The near-threatened Baliospermum solanifolium [B. montanum (Willd.) Müll. Arg.] plant, found in several locations throughout India\'s sub-Himalayan region, from the Khasi Hills to Kashmir, was the subject of a DNA barcode investigation. The links between the many species in this genus have been established via morphological research, but there haven\'t been many attempts to study the evolutionary history at the molecular level. Plant DNA barcodes make the information accessible to the general public and aid in the understanding, preservation, and use of the world\'s biodiversity. Since a single universal barcode gene is not available, the main challenge is identifying the suitable barcoding gene for our sample. The chloroplast genes matK (maturase K) and rbcL (RuBisCo) were utilized in the study, with leaves DNA serving as the template for amplification. The samples of the B. solanifolium plant collected from four different geographic locations in South India were analyzed for their phylogenetic diversity. MEGA 7.0 was used for the phylogenetic analysis using maximum likelihood and neighbor-joining models with 1000 bootstraps. BLASTn search results indicated that the plastid rbcL and matK gene sequences were consistent with B. solanifolium as the source material and aligned using MUSCLE, in which Maximum Likelihood (ML) and Neighbor-Joining (NJ) trees were produced. The tree shows likely monophyletic for rbcL and divergence in the matK gene. This work suggests that the rbcL gene is a promising option for DNA barcoding of the B. solanifolium plant which helps in understanding the biodiversity.','Baliospermum solanifolium (B. montanum), matK, rbcL, DNA barcoding, phylogenetic tree analysis','Our study demonstrates the potential of DNA barcoding in identifying the purity and authenticity of medicinal plant species, especially in the case of B. solanifolium (B. montanum). The phylogenetic tree based on plastid matK and rbc L sequences constructed by the NJ method using the MEGA program supports ML tree analysis. Furthermore, the tree topology evaluated using MEGA 7NJ was remarkably comparable to the ML tree. The rbcL gene was found to be effective in revealing the genetic diversity and variation within the species and in clustering the plants into a molecular phylogenetic tree compared to the matK gene. This highlights the importance of DNA barcoding in ensuring the quality and safety of plant-based medicines and in safeguarding the biodiversity of our planet. Our findings add to the growing body of evidence that DNA barcoding can play a critical role in plant systematics and conservation, as well as in the pharmaceutical industry. By providing a cost-effective and efficient method for species identification, DNA barcoding can help promote sustainable and responsible use of plant resources, ensuring the health and well-being of people and the environment. Although the discovery of phylogenetic biology has transformed the study of molecular and developmental evolution, its influence on ecology is still quite modest.\r\nThe rbcL and matK gene sequences obtained are only partial, meaning that there are still some variable regions in these genes that cannot be amplified due to the limitations of the primers. The variable regions are also the areas that distinguish one taxon from another. Our study contributes to the examination of the distant relationships among the sections of Euphorbiaceae plants through the use of matK and rbcL. This helps in the possible knowledge of the change in communities or distribution through time and also paves the way for future pharmacological research datasets.\r\n','-','Karthik S., Basker S., Dheeban Shankar P., Senthil Kumar N., Sarathbabu S. and Saravanan K. (2023). Assessing the Phylogenetic Relationships of Baliospermum solanifolium [B.montanum (Willd.) Müll. Arg.] in South India through DNA Barcoding. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 15(5): 125-137.'),(6593,'157','Sleep Deprivation, Stress and Maladaptive Coping Style among Working and Non-Working Married Women: A Comparative Study','Rupa Mishra and Naresh Kumar Chandel','Sleep-Deprivation,-Stress-and-Maladaptive-Coping-Style-among-Working-and-Non-Working-Married-Women-A-Comparative-Study-Rupa-Mishra-20.pdf','',1,'The present study aims to examine sleep deprivation, stress, and maladaptive coping styles among working and non-working married women with dependent children and to find the relationship between sleep deprivation, stress, and maladaptive coping styles between working and non-working married women with dependent children. The sample consisted of 120 married working and non-working women with dependent children living in a joint family. They were selected by using the random sampling technique, and they belonged to different educational backgrounds and different socioeconomic statuses. The age range was 25–60 years. Married women were working in different government or private sectors. Non-working women were homemakers. A sample was collected from different urban areas. The Perceived Stress Scale (PSS-10), Stress Coping Techniques Scale, and Pittsburgh Sleep Quality Index (PSQI) were used. The data was analyzed using Karl Pearson’s correlation and the t-test. Findings revealed that there is a significant difference in sleep deprivation, stress, and maladaptive coping styles between working and non-working married women with dependent children. Non-working married women feel more stress and sleep deprivation and use maladaptive coping styles as compared to working married women. And there is a significant positive correlation between sleep deprivation, stress, and maladaptive coping styles among married women. Non-working married women may benefit from programs that aim to enhance coping skills, thereby reducing stress. Future psychotherapies using advanced technologies to target vulnerable married women, promote adaptive coping patterns, and discourage maladaptive coping techniques are necessary. Counselling sessions and the guidance of a trained psychologist may be beneficial.','Sleep deprivation, stress, working women, non-working women, maladaptive coping style, married women','The present study indicates that married working women have less stress, less sleep deprivation, and less involvement in maladaptive coping styles as compared to married non-working women. If stress decreased, then sleep deprivation and maladaptive coping would also decrease in married working women. Further, there is scope for further research and findings.','-','Rupa Mishra and Naresh Kumar Chandel (2023). Sleep Deprivation, Stress and Maladaptive Coping Style among Working and Non-Working Married Women: A Comparative Study. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 15(5): 138-143.'),(6594,'157','Production and Purification of Novel Alkaline Protease Producing Bacillus firmus BAAP-43 isolated from Tannery and Leather Industries Soils','Anusuya Balan and Venkatachalam Palanisamy','Production-and-Purification-of-Novel-Alkaline-Protease-Producing-Bacillus-firmus-BAAP-43-isolated-from-Tannery-and-Leather-Industries-Soils-Anusuya-Balan-21.pdf','',1,'Proteolytic enzymes are the enzymes that bring about degradation of the proteins into peptides and amino acids. Proteases enzymes are one of the most important groups of industrial enzymes accounting for more than 65% of the total market for industrial enzymes used in laundry detergent, brewing, the leather, and dairy, pharmaceutical and food industries, and in the production of protein. Protease can hydrolyze the hardly soluble protein on fabric into soluble peptide chain and amino acid in detergent solution. Smoothness. A protease producing microorganism was isolated from tannery and leather industries soil collected from tannery effluent contaminated sites. Based on the 16S rRNA sequencing morphological, biochemical, and molecular characterization the isolate was identified as Bacillus firmus BAAP-43. Maximum protease production was achieved at 45̊C and pH of 9.5 and multiple sources of carbon for its alkaline proteases production; glucose was the best source of carbon, peptone was found to be the best nitrogen source for the maximum enzyme production. Mg2+ enhances the growth and enzyme production and among the different substrates used, casein showed maximum enzyme production. The enzyme was purified by ammonium sulphate precipitation, DEAE- Cellulose and Sephadex G-100 gel chromatography. The Purified protein was with specific activity of 18360.6 U/mg protein was obtained with 43.1 purification fold and 18.7% recovery percentage. Molecular weight of purified enzyme was as 30.2 kDa by SDS-PAGE.','Alkaline Protease, Bacillus firmus, Purification, Characterization','In the present study, native alkaline protease producing alkalophilic bacteria was isolated from local tannery and leather industries sediment soil samples as a potent producer of alkaline protease enzyme. The new isolate was identified as Bacillus firmus BAAP-43 based on biochemical tests and molecular identification using 16S rRNA sequence analysis. Culture conditions such as optimum incubation time, temperature, pH, Carbon, Nitrogen sources, Metal ions and substrates for the maximum growth and enzyme production were determined. The molecular weight of the purified alkaline protease was estimated to be 30.2 kDa. Further, a complete large-scale process optimization, purification, and characterization work is needed to achieve inexpensive production of alkaline protease.','-','Anusuya Balan and Venkatachalam Palanisamy (2023). Production and Purification of Novel Alkaline Protease Producing Bacillus firmus BAAP-43 isolated from Tannery and Leather Industries Soils. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 15(5): 144-151.'),(6595,'157','Population Fluctuation Study of Lepidopteran Pests through Sex Pheromone Trap','H.C. Patel, D.B. Sisodiya, N.B. Patel and N.B. Pawar','Population-Fluctuation-Study-of-Lepidopteran-Pests through-Sex-Pheromone-Trap-HC-Patel-22.pdf','',1,'The population fluctuation of important lepidopteran pests was studied from July, 2013 to December, 2019 at College of Agriculture, Anand Agricultural University, Vaso, Gujarat through sex pheromone trap. Based on moth catches in pheromone traps, Helicoverpa armigera male moth activity found around the year except 13th SMW of March as well as 14th and 16th SMW of April. The higher moth catches were found during September to December with peak in the month of October. Male moth catches of Spodoptera litura was observed in pheromone traps throughout the year, however, higher moth catches were found during July to December with peak in the month of October. In case of Scirpophaga incertulas male moth catches were found from 21st to 52nd SMW. The higher moth catches of S. incertulas was found during August to October with peak in the month of October. Therefore, these results from the activities of the main lepidopteran pests will satisfy the fundamental requirement for the development of successful integrated pest management strategies.','Helicoverpa armiger, Spodoptera litura, Scirpophaga incertulas, population fluctuation, activity','The population fluctuation study on major lepidopteran pests through moths caught in respective sex pheromone trap revealed that the relatively higher male moth catches of H. armigera, S. litura and S. incertulas found during July to December, September to December and August to October, respectively with peak in the month of October. Hence, one can keep watch on the host crop of the pests grow during this period and take prompt action by adopting suitable integrated pest management tools.','-','H.C. Patel, D.B. Sisodiya, N.B. Patel and N.B. Pawar (2023). Population Fluctuation Study of Lepidopteran Pests through Sex Pheromone Trap. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 15(5): 152-156.'),(6596,'157','Evaluating Plant Growth Promoting and drought Stress Alleviating Traits in Fungal Endophytes','Neekshitha Shetty, Earanna N. and Nakul Kale','Evaluating-Plant-Growth-Promoting-and-drought-Stress-Alleviating-Traits-in-Fungal-Endophytes-Neekshitha-shetty-23.pdf','',1,'Drought is one of the devastating environmental stresses which has adverse effect on yield and productivity in all agricultural crops. Among different beneficial microorganisms, fungal endophytes are known impart drought tolerance through physiological, biological and biochemical modifications in plants. They secrete metabolites that combat stress or stimulate the early stress response system in host plant to cope with the stress. The current study aims to characterize, six fungal endophytes viz., P1R1, P4L5, P6R3, P6R4, P10R1 and P12R2 with respect to plant growth promotion and drought stress alleviating traits under invitro conditions. The results showed that all six fungal endophytes were able to solubilize phosphate and produced phytohormones while two fungal endophytes showed siderophore production. Fungal endophyte P6R4 showed the highest phosphate solubilization index and isolate P10R1 showed high siderophore producing index. Stress induced IAA and GA production was observed to be maximum in isolates P10R1 and P6R4 respectively. Similarly, the production of high phenol and flavonoids in their culture filtrates indicated their antioxidant and reducing power activity under stress conditions among the isolates. The study reveals that fungal isolates have the ability to impart drought tolerance in host plants through plant growth promoting activities.','Fungal endophytes, drought, phytohormones, antioxidant activity','Fungal endophytes are widely known to impart abiotic stress tolerance in host plants. In this study, fungal endophytes were able to produce growth hormones both under PEG induced stress and normal condition. Also, they were able to solubilize phosphate and produce siderophores. Further, they showed antioxidant activity and accumulated trehalose content in fungal mycelia under drought stress. Overall, this study gives a comprehensive understanding of the mechanism involved in imparting drought tolerance in host plants by fungal endophytes.','-','Neekshitha Shetty, Earanna N. and Nakul Kale (2023). Evaluating Plant Growth Promoting and drought Stress Alleviating Traits in Fungal Endophytes. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 15(5): 157-164.'),(6597,'157','Comparative Study of Different Diagnostic Modalities for the Detection of Malaria Parasite at a Tertiary Care Centre Kanpur','Deepak Sameer, R. Sujatha, Shrawan Kumar and Nashra A.','Comparative-Study-of-Different-Diagnostic-Modalities-for-the-Detection-of-Malaria-Parasite-at-a-Tertiary-Care-Centre-Kanpur-Deepak-Sameer-24.pdf','',1,'Globally, the incidence of malaria continues to increase and India contributes to one third of cases of malaria globally with the highest incidence reported by Plasmodium vivax species. Comparative study of different diagnostic modalities for the detection of malaria parasite at a tertiary care centre Kanpur. The study was carried out in the Department of Microbiology and Central Research Lab of RMCH & RC, Kanpur, for a period of 1 year March 2021 to March 2022. A total of 151 whole blood samples were collected & examined by Peripheral blood smear (PBS) stained with Giemsa stain, rapid diagnostic test (RDT) for detection of antigen and CBS (Centrifuged buffy coat smear) tests respectively. The Ethical Clearance was taken from the Ethical Committee of the institution. Out of the total 151 Malaria suspected cases, 10 positive cases of Plasmodium vivax species were detected by RDT, CBS and 6 by PBS tests. 7 (70%) were male and 3 (30%) were female, the maximum number of cases were in 41-50 years followed by 1-30 years. The comparative performance of RDT, CBC and PBS were analysed, the RDT and CBS showed a sensitivity of (80%), specificity (98.58%) PPV (80%), NPV (98.58%) and accuracy (97.35%), the sensitivity of PBS is 60%, specificity 98.58%, PPV(70%), NPV(98.58%) and accuracy (96.02%) respectively. In our study the sensitivity, specificity of PBS is lesser than RDT and CBS, hence owing to the high number of false negatives in microscopy, it is necessary to reinforce training in microscopy, the “Gold Standard” in endemic areas, especially for confirmation of clinical diagnosis.','RDT, CBS, sensitivity and specificity','In our study the sensitivity, specificity of PBS is lesser than RDT and CBS, hence owing to the high number of false negatives in microscopy, it is necessary to reinforce training in microscopy, the “Gold Standard” in endemic areas, especially for confirmation of clinical diagnosis.','-','Deepak Sameer, R. Sujatha, Shrawan Kumar and Nashra A. (2023). Comparative Study of Different Diagnostic Modalities for the Detection of Malaria Parasite at a Tertiary Care Centre Kanpur. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 15(5): 165-168.'),(6598,'157','Antibiotics; the Miracle Drugs, also a Predisposing Factor of Obesity','Tuhina Nasrin Ali, Malay Mitra and Avishek Ghosh','Antibiotics;-the-Miracle-Drugs,-also-a-Predisposing-Factor-of-Obesity-Avishek-Ghosh-25.pdf','',1,'We live in the era of antibiotics. This particular group of medicines has remarkable efficiency to treat infections with reduced morbidity and mortality and thus conquer the title of miracle drugs. But their enormous use without proper guidelines is a precursor of antibiotic resistance as well as is a raising concern of long-term metabolic changes in our body. In this review we emphasis on the impact of dysbiosis resulting from antibiotic exposure on body weight gain. Evidences tell us early life repeated exposures are unlikely to be a predisposing factor of offspring obesity. Pre-natal antibiotic use is also a contributory to this. Sex-specific effect is there: boys are more vulnerable compare to girls. Although the mechanisms underlining the association remain unexplained, the little we found out is this action is due to the byproducts of microbial fermentation, gut hormone alteration, metabolic entoxeamia and fasting induced adipocyte factor (Fiaf). Since randomized control trial (RCT) deals with the safety of the participants, it would be ethical concern in this regard and consumption of antibiotic doesn’t show immediate effect on body mass index (BMI) while it usually increases the body fat at the later stages of life, additional well-designed longitudinal prospective cohort studies have been undertaken. More similar type of researches involving human regarding this issue necessitate for better explanation and ultimately to control the global epidemic obesity.','Antibiotics, Dysbiosis, Obesity, BMI, SCFA, Bacterial components','This review has demonstrated that antibiotic exposure is a predisposing factor of obesity. Association is more marked for early life repeated exposures and particularly for the male child. We found out the children of the mother having a history of antibiotic use during pregnancy are also vulnerable. We are having still many unanswered questions such as class, dose, timing and mechanism. The little we know is use of antibiotics altering the biodiversity of gut microbiota and metabolites of them led to weight gain by their effect on body metabolisms. Randomized control trials would be unethical in this regards, further longitudinal human studies where these kinds of effects are secondary outcomes could elicit explanation.','-','Tuhina Nasrin Ali, Malay Mitra and Avishek Ghosh (2023). Antibiotics; the Miracle Drugs, also a Predisposing Factor of Obesity. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 15(5): 169-179.'),(6599,'157','Effect of Nano Nitrogen Foliar Spray to Tree Mulberry on Growth and Cocoon Productivity of Mulberry Silkworm (Bombyx mori L.)','Goutam S.M., Raje Gowda, Manjunath Gowda, G.G. Kadlli, Chandrashekhar Kallimani, Sanketh C.V., Arunkumar B.R. and Prem Kishor S.N. ','Effect-of-Nano-Nitrogen-Foliar-Spray-to-Tree-Mulberry-on-Growth-and-Cocoon-Productivity-of-Mulberry-Silkworm-(Bombyx-mori-L.)-Prem-Kishor-SN-26.pdf','',1,'A field experiment was conducted during 2020-21 on established Victory-1 (V-1) tree mulberry garden at Krishi Vigyan Kendra, Hassan situated in the Southern Transition Zone (Zone-7) of Karnataka to study the influence of nano nitrogen foliar application to tree mulberry on silkworm growth and cocoon productivity. The experiment was laid out in RCBD, comprising seven treatments replicated thrice. The results revealed that, significantly shorter 5th instar duration (7.29 days), higher 5th instar larval weight (54.69 g/10 larvae), ERR (97.33%), cocoon yield by number (9666.67 per 10,000 worms), cocoon yield by weight (25.15 kg per 10,000 worms), single cocoon weight (2.58 g), single cocoon shell weight (0.58 g), single pupal weight (2.00 g), cocoon shell ratio (22.55 %), longest filament length (1435.44 m) and filament weight (0.51 g) were observed from the silkworm batches fed with leaves harvested from the plot provided with 4 ml L-1 nano nitrogen foliar application on 25th and 35th day after pruning with soil application of 60 per cent N, 100 per cent P and K with recommended FYM (T3). The research is conducted as a part of my Master’s degree, so I am not able to conduct the research on all verities of mulberry and strains of silkworms. By spraying nano nitrogen will improves the yield substantially, through production of higher leaf yield and harvesting of good quality cocoons.','Nano nitrogen, foliar spray, tree mulberry, silkworm, feeding','It can be concluded that with the foliar application of nano nitrogen to tree mulberry. Among all treatments T3: 100 % PK + 60 % N (RDF) soil application + nano N foliar spray @ 4 ml L-1 showing the better results compare to all others, with regards to larval duration, larval weight, ERR, cocoon number and weight, Cocoon parameter and Reeling parameters of mulberry silkworm hence following T3: 100 % PK + 60 % N (RDF) soil application + nano N foliar spray @ 4 ml L-1 in cultivation of mulberry is optimum.','-','Goutam S.M., Raje Gowda, Manjunath Gowda, G.G. Kadlli, Chandrashekhar Kallimani, Sanketh C.V., Arunkumar B.R. and Prem Kishor S.N. (2023). Effect of Nano Nitrogen Foliar Spray to Tree Mulberry on Growth and Cocoon Productivity of Mulberry Silkworm (Bombyx mori L.). Biological Forum – An International Journal, 15(5): 180-186.'),(6600,'157','Monitoring of Water Quality to Assess the Impact of Unscientific Sand Mining in the Catchment Areas of Umtyngar River, Meghalaya (North-Eastern India)','Arnab Mandal, M.K. Choudhury and Prashant Gargava','Monitoring-of-Water-Quality-to-Assess-the-Impact-of-Unscientific-Sand-Mining-in-the-Catchment-Areas-of-Umtyngar-River,-Meghalaya-(North-Eastern-India)-Arnab-Mandal-27.pdf','',1,'Umtyngar River (Meghalaya, India) is the source of raw water for the supply of drinking water in Shillong City. However, Water quality of Umtyngar River is found turbid/ muddy due to impact of uncontrolled/ unscientific sand mining at the catchment area of the river. Citizens have occasionally reported the presence of an oily layer in the treated water from the Umtyngar River, supplied by Greater Shillong Water Supply, which is attributed to the excessive use of Alum to remove high levels of suspended solids in the river water. Thus, a scientific study was undertaken to investigate impacts on the water quality on the Umtyngar River caused by unscientific sand mining and to develop a sustainable management plan for restoration of river quality. Water samples were taken at upstream and downstream stations of Umtyngar River on a monthly basis starting from April, 2021 to November, 2022. Collected water samples have been analyzed for various physico- chemical parameters like pH, DO, BOD, COD, Conductivity, Turbidity, TSS& TDS. The sharp increase in values for the parameters conductivity, turbidity, and TSS in downstream station compared to upstream stations suggests that the majority of sand mining activities are located along the downstream station Umtyngar. Cluster Analysis & Principal Component Analysis also confirms that the downstream station Umtyngar is more affected by the unscientific sand mining at the river catchment area during the summer, monsoon, and post monsoon seasons of the year. Existing Sand mining practices were also deeply evaluated through extensive field visits. Particle size distribution of soil at the catchment areas was also examined to promote scientific sand mining practices and dry separation technology (like rotary sieving drum) to improve water quality in the river as well as considering economic angle of local communities. ','Cluster Analysis, Particle Size Distribution, Sustainable Management, Turbidity, TSS, Unscientific Sand Mining, Water Quality','The land, water, biotic, social and human environments have all suffered irreparable harm as a result of large-scale sand and gravel extraction from river banks. This is especially true of the rivers in Meghalaya in Northeast India, which are small and have few resources for riverbeds. In the present study undertaken, Physicochemical characteristic analysis of Umtyngar river water at different upstream & downstream stations throughout different seasons of the year and subsequent statistical analysis indicated that unscientific Mining of sands and gravels at the surrounding (East Jaintia) hills on the river bank of Umtyngar river is posing a great threat in water quality majorly in downstream station i.e., Umtyngar. The river water quality at downstream station Umtyngar is worst during the time of summer and monsoon. Apart from illegal mining, road construction activities in surrounding downstream stations (station-3) during the summer and monsoon of the year 2022 have also contributed in the deterioration of the water quality in terms of turbidity and TSS.\r\nIt can be said that there is a pressing need to learn more about the intricate problems caused by sand mining activities on the way of life of nearby local communities. All stakeholders in the sand mining industries must work together to develop strategies for implementing sustainable mining practices. The information gathered during this inquiry, along with its analysis and interpretation, will help people better understand the condition of the water and the effects of unreliable sand mining on the Umtyngar River\'s catchment areas. More of these core investigations will be needed in the future, along with appropriate scientific monitoring techniques, in the Umtyngar Catchment area to keep the physico- chemical parameters under control for the benefit of the river\'s biotic components as well as for the greater good of humanity.\r\n','-','Arnab Mandal, M.K. Choudhury and Prashant Gargava (2023). Monitoring of Water Quality to Assess the Impact of Unscientific Sand Mining in the Catchment Areas of Umtyngar River, Meghalaya (North-Eastern India). Biological Forum – An International Journal, 15(5): 187-196.'),(6601,'157','Foliar Application of Ferrous Sulphate and its Influence on Growth, Grain Quality and Nutrient Uptake in Soybean (Glycine max L.)','Badapmain Makdoh, A.P. Singh, L.T. Longkumer, T. Gohain, Lanunola Tzudir, D. Nongmaithem, Rekha Yadav and Damitre Lytan ','Foliar-Application-of-Ferrous-Sulphate-and-its-Influence-on-Growth,-Grain-Quality-and-Nutrient-Uptake-in-Soybean-(Glycine-max-L.)-AP-Singh-28.pdf','',1,'Iron deficiency has been one of the most prevalent micronutrient deficiencies in most part of India particularly the rural Northeast region which has affected children and women. To alleviate iron deficiency which is a major global issue, agronomic biofortification is an easy and sustainable approach that aims at enriching iron content in edible part of the crops. It simultaneously enhances crop performance in terms of yield andiron content of grain. Hence, a study was conducted to see the effect of iron fertilization on soybean being one of the important pulse crops in the tribal communities. A two years pot experiment was conducted during kharif season of 2018 and 2019 at the Agronomy farm, SASRD, Nagaland university, Medziphema campus to study the effect of iron sulphate on growth, yield and quality parameters in soybean. Three (3) soybean varieties viz., JS-335, JS-97-52 and local cultivar under six (6) iron (Fe) fertilization treatments laid out in factorial CRD with three replications. The Six iron treatments viz., Fe0 as Control, Fe1 (Foliar spray application of FeSO4.7H2O@ 0.5%), Fe2 (Foliar spray application of FeSO4.7H2O@ 1%), Fe3 (Foliar spray application of FeSO4.7H2O@ 1.5%), Fe4 (Foliar spray application of FeSO4.7H2O@ 2%), Fe5 (Soil application of FeSO4.7H2O@ 10 kg ha-1). Results of the two-year experimentation revealed that JS 97-52 was superior in dry matter yield while plant height and leaf area, local cultivar was way superior than the others. Foliar spray application of FeSO4.7H2O (ferrous sulphate) @ 1.5% was found most effective in enhancing growth, yield and iron content of soybean. The chlorophyll content was significantly higher in JS-335 at both 30 and 60 DAS. Foliar spray application of 1.5% FeSO4.7H2O resulted in significantly higher chlorophyll content at 60 DAS. The highest seed yield was observed with foliar spray application of iron sulphate @ 1.5% (24.89 g pot-1). The highest value of iron content in grain (67.29 mg kg-1) and stover (124.48 mg kg-1) was observed with foliar application of 1.5% iron sulphate along with percent increase of 18.51% and 17.30%, respectively over control. Foliar application of 1.5% iron sulphate significantly enhanced the protein (38.96%) and oil content (18.29%). NPK uptake was found significantly higher in JS 97-52, and among Fe fertilization, Fe3 significantly improved the N and K uptake only.','Soybean, growth, yield, quality, uptake','Based on the two years of investigation, it can be concluded that local cultivar was found superior in most of the growth parameter followed by JS 97-52. Whereas in respect to yield, oil content and NPK uptake, JS 97-52 was found to have higher value. For achieving higher crop growth, grain yield and enrichment of grain quality, two foliar applications of iron sulphate @ 1.5% at pre-flowering and flowering stage can be considered as an effective alternative means that can be recommended as iron biofortification strategy for soybean in the region.','-','Badapmain Makdoh, A.P. Singh, L.T. Longkumer, T. Gohain, Lanunola Tzudir, D. Nongmaithem, Rekha Yadav and Damitre Lytan (2023). Foliar Application of Ferrous Sulphate and its Influence on Growth, Grain Quality and Nutrient Uptake in Soybean (Glycine max L.). Biological Forum – An International Journal, 15(5): 197-204.'),(6602,'157','In vitro Antioxidant, Antibacterial activity and Phytochemical Characterization of Senecio nudicaulis Buch. -Ham. er D. Don leaves extracts','Pritee Pant, Kapil Khulbe and Charu C. Pant','In-vitro-Antioxidant,-Antibacterial-activity-and-Phytochemical-Characterization-of-Senecio-nudicaulis-Buch.--Ham.-er-D.-Don-leaves-extracts-Pritee-Pant-29.pdf','',1,'The antioxidant and antibacterial activities of Senecio nudicaulis (Asteraceae) are elucidated in the current paper, along with chemical characterization using its methanol and hexane extracts. The highest levels of phenolics (78.26 ±0.86 mg GAE/g dry weight) and flavonoids (32.10 ±0.24mg QE/g dry weight) were detected in the methanol extract, which also displayed remarkable antioxidant potential in DPPH (IC50-30.74 ±1.93 µg/mL), FRAP (120.11 ± 2.21mg AAE/g dry weight), and ABTS (IC50 - 28.61±0.25 µg/mL) assays. Methanol extract showed the highest level of inhibition (13.66 mm) against A. tumefaciens, followed by hexane extract (12.5 mm) against P. aeruginosa and A. tumefaciens. Methanol extract against A. tumefaciens and hexane extract against P. aeruginosa both had substantial MIC values (12.5 mg/ml). GC-MS analysis revealed that 6-Methyl-3,5-heptadiene-2-one (27.9%), 2,5-dihydroxy benzene acetic acid (15.63%), and hexahydroindanin (11.37%) were dominated in methanol extract, whereas phytyl palmitate (9.98%), 9,19-Cyclo-27-norlanostan-25-one, 3-(acetyloxy)-24-methyl-(3.β.,24R) (5.77%), stearic acid (8.08%), dihomo-γ-linolenic acid (9.40%), and phytol (8.21%)were found to be the major constituents in hexane extract. While non-polar extract did show significant antibacterial activity, polar extract exhibited strong antioxidant potential. Results clearly demonstrated antioxidant and antibacterial activities due to the presence of bioactive phytochemicals. The present study makes a foundation for development of new and effective antibiotic and antioxidant drugs.','Senecio nudicaulis, GC-MS, Phytochemicals, Antioxidant, Antibacterial, Medicinal plants','The current paper is the first to detail the chemical makeup and antioxidant and antibacterial effects of S. nudicaulis methanol and hexane extracts using in-vitro experiments. The present study reports the presence of many medicinally valuable and industrially relevant compounds that have previously been linked to biologically active functions. Tested plant extracts showed antioxidant activity in the DPPH, FRAP, and ABTS assays. Furthermore, bacterial strains were also found to be susceptible to plant extracts. ','-','Pritee Pant, Kapil Khulbe and Charu C. Pant (2023). In vitro Antioxidant, Antibacterial activity and Phytochemical Characterization of Senecio nudicaulis Buch. -Ham. er D. Don leaves extracts. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 15(5): 205-215.'),(6603,'157','Diversity Assessment in Cultivated Finger Millet [Eleusine coracana (L.) Gaertn.] Genotypes using SSR Markers','Kajal Patel, Arna Das, Rumit Patel, Juned Memon, Mayank Patel, Unnati Patel and Dipak A. Patel ','Diversity-Assessment-in-Cultivated-Finger-Millet-[Eleusine-coracana-(L.)-Gaertn.]-Genotypes-using-SSR-Markers-Rumit-Patel-30.pdf','',1,'Finger millet [Eleusine coracana (L.) Gaertn.] is one of the most important minor millets available in the world, and is cultivated mostly in harsh tropical weather of Africa and South Asia. It is a nutri-cereal, rich in protein and calcium with allied health benefits and is a potent crop for food security, though only negligible improvement has been observed for the crop so far because it was not a mainstream crop but now a days it is a better crop to cultivate in arid and semi-arid locations due to its capacity to flourish in marginal areas with little irrigation and poor soil fertility. Assessment of genetic diversity is a basic requirement for crop improvement for which simple sequence repeat (SSR) molecular markers are the most feasible technologies available in terms of specificity and cost-effectiveness. The present investigation was aimed to assess molecular divergence in 25 finger millet accessions through 19SSR markers, of which eight showed polymorphism. A total of 25 SSR amplicons (72 to 291 base pairs) was observed. Major allele frequency per marker (MAF), effective allele frequency per marker (Ae), heterozygosity (He) and Polymorphic Information Content (PIC) had an average of 0.48, 2.91, 0.63 and 0.61 respectively. Six markers had higher He and PIC hence could be exploited for agro-economic trait association studies. It was depicted that number of genotypes responding per marker (GR) had an inverse relation with Ae, whereas, Ae had a positive relation with He and PICbuta negative relation with MAF. Euclidean distance method revealed considerable divergence between genotypes with degree of dissimilarity ranging from 1.751 to 4.406 indicating that the accessions might be utilized for crop improvement in finger millet. Dendrogram revealed two distinct clusters, white seeded cultivars formed one cluster and the rest formed another indicating involvement of distinct gene expression for grain colour. The diverse accessions might be utilized for crop improvement.','Clustering, Diversity, Finger millet, SSR, PIC, Euclidean distance',' More number of alleles per marker (A) will definitely lead to more number of genotypes responding per marker (GR) for one allele or the other, leading to less number of effective allele and more number of major allele frequencies and also will generate a good amount of PIC. This was actually the outcome for the marker FMO14; having highest PIC value it could be utilized best in chromosomal mapping. This outcome surely can be exploited in hybridization programme where two national checks can be crossed, or any Gujarat variety can be crossed with other belonging to two different major clusters hence ensuring considerable divergence.','-','Kajal Patel, Arna Das, Rumit Patel, Juned Memon, Mayank Patel, Unnati Patel and Dipak A. Patel (2023). Diversity Assessment in Cultivated Finger Millet [Eleusine coracana (L.) Gaertn.] Genotypes using SSR Markers. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 15(5): 216-224.'),(6604,'157','Problems Encountered by the Turmeric Farmers and Suggestions to Overcome the Problems in Marketing the Produce in Kadapa District of Andhra Pradesh','Settipalli Sravani, S.V. Prasad and P.L.R.J. Praveena','Problems-Encountered-by-the-Turmeric-Farmers-and-Suggestions-to-Overcome-the-Problems-in-Marketing-the-Produce-in-Kadapa-District-of-Andhra-Pradesh-Settipalli-Sravani-31.pdf','',1,'Turmeric is a primeval and holy spice of India and is popularly known as ‘Yellow gold’. Among various problems in turmeric farming, marketing is the major one and the turmeric farmers lose their bargaining power and get exploited as whole produce will emanate to market yard at a time. The present study was conducted during 2020-21 and carried out purposively in Kadapa district of Andhra Pradesh with the objective of studying the problems that are faced by the turmeric farmers and suggestions to overcome them in the marketing of the produce with a sample size of 90 respondents. The study followed Ex post facto research design. In this study, Garrett’s ranking technique was used to identify and rank the problems. Whereas, suggestions were measured using frequency and percentage. The results of the study revealed that the major problems faced by the turmeric farmers were; lack of remunerative price, delayed cash payment and fluctuation in market prices got first, second and third rank respectively. These problems directly hinder the marketing behavior of turmeric farmers. Whereas, major suggestions offered by the turmeric farmers were; provision of minimum support price for turmeric (94.44%), provision of information about current marketing situations (91.11%) and provision of sufficient storage facilities (88.89%) got first, second and third rank respectively.','Marketing, Problems, Suggestions, Turmeric farmers','Turmeric is one of the most indispensable spices and is used as an important ingredient in culinary all over the world, but its marketing involves a lot of problems. It was found that lack of remunerative price was the most common problem for the turmeric farmers followed by delayed cash payment and fluctuation in market prices etc.To overcome these problems, the major suggestions given by the respondents were; provision of minimum support price for turmeric followed by provision of information about current marketing situations, provision of sufficient storage facilities and by providing village-level marketing through Rythu Bharosa Kendra’s (RBKs) would be highly beneficial in giving them the most recent market information which in turn increase their profits by selling their produce at highest prices.','-','Settipalli Sravani, S.V. Prasad and P.L.R.J. Praveena (2023). Problems Encountered by the Turmeric Farmers and Suggestions to Overcome the Problems in Marketing the Produce in Kadapa District of Andhra Pradesh. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 15(5): 225-229.'),(6605,'157','Generation Mean Analysis for Fruit Yield and Component Traits in Tomato (Solanum lycopersicum L.)','Pragati J. Prajapati, J.N. Patel, Parthik Patel and N.A. Patel','Generation-Mean-Analysis-for-Fruit-Yield-and-Component-Traits-in-Tomato-(Solanum-lycopersicum-L.)-Pragati-J-Prajapati-32.pdf','',1,'Information of gene action governing the yield and its components is very crucial for formulating sound breeding programmes. In order to generate this information for tomato lines, the present investigation was carried out at Main Vegetable Research Station, Anand Agricultural University (AAU), Anand during kharif-rabi 2022-23. The experimental material comprised of six families developed from ten diverse lines. Each family is composed of six generations viz., P1, P2, F1, F2, B1& B2 evaluated with three replications in compact family block p;design (CFBD) to perform generation mean analysis. Results of simple scaling tests and joint scaling tests revealed adequacy of three parameter model in one out of eighty-four possible cases and adequacy of six parameter model in eighty two out of eighty-four possible cases. ','Tomato, Generation mean analysis, Scaling test, Gene action, Gene interaction','The present investigation revealed that main effects viz., additive and dominance along with additive × additive (i), additive × dominance (j) and dominance × dominance (l) were present at more or less extent indicating the importance of these interactions for the inheritance of the various traits. The result of epistatic gene effects for fruit yield and its related traits in different cross combinations revealed that recurrent selection and bi-parental mating between desirable segregants followed by selection would be profitable for development of desirable hybrids/lines/varieties.','-','Pragati J. Prajapati, J.N. Patel, Parthik Patel, and N.A. Patel (2023). Generation Mean Analysis for Fruit Yield and Component Traits in Tomato (Solanum lycopersicum L.). Biological Forum – An International Journal, 15(5): 230-237.'),(6606,'157','Effect of different Sources of Organic Manures and Jeevamrutha on Yield and Microbial Population of Frenchbean (Phaseolus vulgaris L.)','Nath S., Devakumar N., Rao G.G.E., Murali K., Krishna Naik L. and Kadalli G.G.','Effect-of-Different-Sources-of-Organic-Manures-and-Jeevamrutha-on-Yield-and-Microbial-Population-of-Frenchbean-(Phaseolus-vulgaris-L.)-Suprava-Nath-33.pdf','',1,'Due to irrational and non-judicious use of synthetic chemical fertilizers without applying organic manures in the crop production process over the years has led to deterioration of physical, chemical and biological properties of soil. To overcome these adverse impacts, a field experiment was carried out to investigate the combined effects of various sources of organic manures and jeevamrutha on yield and microbial population of Frenchbean in the research and demonstration block of the Research Institute on Organic Farming, UAS, Bangalore during Kharif - 2021. The experiment was carried out in Factorial RCBD design with 16 treatment combinations that were replicated thrice. Soil of the experimental field was red sandy loam in texture with a pH (6.93), EC (0.27 dS m-1) and medium in available nitrogen (291.5 kg ha-1), phosphorus (28.2 kg ha-1) and potassium (236.4 kg ha-1). The experimental results indicated that application of vermicompost on nitrogen (N) equivalent basis resulted in significantly higher green pod yield (150.48 q ha-1) and haulm yield (38.06 q ha-1) at harvest and microbial population in terms of bacteria, fungi, actinomycetes, N- fixers and P- soulubilizers at 40 DAS compared to other organic manure sources. Among levels of jeevamrutha, application of jeevamrutha at 2000 litre ha-1 recorded significantly higher green pod yield (139.14 q ha-1) and haulm yield (35.44 q ha-1) at harvest and microbial population in terms of bacteria, fungi, actinomycetes, N-fixers and P-soulubilizers at 40 DAS compared to other levels of jeevamrutha.',' Frenchbean, Green pod yield, Jeevamrutha, Organic manures, Vermicompost, Microbial population','Application of vermicompost recorded significantly higher yield of french bean as well as microbial population in soil followed by poultry manure, farm yard manure as compared to without manure treatments. Among different levels of jeevamrutha, application of jeevamrutha at 2000 l ha-1 recorded significantly higher yield of french bean as well as microbial population in soil followed by jeevamrutha at 1500 l ha-1, jeevamrutha at 1000 l ha-1 and without jeevamrutha application.','-','Nath S., Devakumar N., Rao G.G.E., Murali K., Krishnanayak L. and Kadalli G.G. (2023). Effect of Different Sources of Organic Manures and Jeevamrutha on Yield and Microbial Population of Frenchbean (Phaseolus vulgaris L.). Biological Forum – An International Journal, 15(5): 238-241.'),(6607,'157','Taxonomy and General Biology of Planthopper fauna Associated with Sugarcane Crop-Ecosystems of Southern and Scarce Rainfall Zones of Andhra Pradesh','Lingutla Geethanjali, M.S.V. Chalam, S.R. Koteswara Rao, C. Raghu Prasad and S.J. Prasanthi','Taxonomy-and-General-Biology-of-Planthopper-fauna-Associated-with-Sugarcane-Crop-Ecosystems-of-Southern-and-Scarce-Rainfall-Zones-of-Andhra-Pradesh-Lingutla-Geethanjali-34.pdf','',1,'Planthoppers being the piercing and sucking herbivores represent greatest threat to agricultural production. In the present study, nine planthopper species were collected and identified from Sugarcane crop ecosystem of southern (Chittoor and Nellore) and scarce rainfall (Kurnool) zones of Andhra Pradesh where sugarcane is the major commercial crop and because of Planthoppers, huge yield losses occur to the farming community. Systematic position includes that all these planthoppers belongs to two families (Delphacidae and Lophopidae) and three tribes (Delphacini, Lophopini, Tropidocephalini). Out of all the nine planthoppers, Pyrilla perpusiella (Stal) infestation is severe and it is a serious sap sucking pest of sugarcane. For easy identification of these planthoppers, an illustrated key along with diagnostic taxonomic characters were provided. ','Planthoppers, Delphacidae, Lophopidae, Sugarcane, Pyrilla perpusiella (Stal)','In the present studies, nine planthopper species belonging to family Delphacidae and Lophopidae from sugarcane crop eco systems were collected, identified, described and illustrated for easy and quick identification. An identification key well supported with illustrations was also provided which will be useful aid to identify the planthoppers by research and extension workers. The accurate identification of planthopper fauna associated with a particular agro-ecosystem is very much needed along with their identification key to formulate integrated management strategies whenever they attain pest status. ','-','Lingutla Geethanjali, M.S.V. Chalam, S.R. Koteswara Rao, C. Raghu Prasad and S.J. Prasanthi (2023). Taxonomy and General Biology of Planthopper fauna Associated with Sugarcane Crop-Ecosystems of Southern and Scarce Rainfall Zones of Andhra Pradesh. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 15(5): 242-247.'),(6608,'157','In vitro Antibacterial Activity and FTIR Analysis of Anisomeles malabarica (L.) Leaves Extract against Mycobacterium marinum Affecting Gold Fish (Carassius auratus)','S. Jeba Sheeba, R. Raja Jeya Sekar, A. Harish and S.M. Vijila ','In-vitro-Antibacterial-Activity-and-FTIR-Analysis-of-Anisomeles-malabarica-(L.)-Leaves-Extract-against-Mycobacterium-marinum-Affecting-Gold-Fish-(Carassius-auratus)-A Harish-35.pdf','',1,'In the present study, Mycobacterium marinum, a bacteria isolated from infected gold fish (Carassius auratus) was tested for its antibacterial potency against Anisomeles malabarica leaf – methanol extracts. Disc diffusion plates on agar were used to measure the antibacterial activity. Different concentrations (0.25l, 0.5l, 0.75l and 1.0 l) of A. malabarica leaf-methanol extract was tested against M. marinum. The A. malabarica leaf - methanol extract was exposed a consequence level of inhibition against M. marinum. Maximum zone was measured after 24 hours at 37°C. The result of the present study revealed that the fish pathogen M. marinum was exhibited maximum zone of clearance (18 mm) at 1.0 l of concentration, where as the minimum zone of clearance (8 mm) was recorded at 0.25l of concentration. Fourier Transform Infra-Red Spectroscopy (FTIR) of A. malabarica leaf – methanol extract revealed the presence of alkenes, nitrogen, aliphatic, oxygen and hydroxyl groups. The Phytochemical analysis of A. malabarica leaf – methanol extract showed the presence of tannins, flavonoids, carbohydrates, phenols, proteins, steroids, saponins and coumarins. As per the result of the present study, it can be concluded that qualitative phytochemicals were identified in A. malabarica leaf - methanol extract was effective against M. marinum, a microbial pathogen that has infected gold fish (C. auratus). To verify these results, in vitro and in vivo experiments are required.','M. marinum, A. malabarica, phytochemicals, antibacterial activity, FTIR analysis','The medicinal plants continue to be important therapeutic agents in both conventional and modern healthcare systems. The plant derived extracts are utilized to treat a variety of fish ailments in order to promote natural behavior and immunity as well as to prevent the transmission of infection. A. malabarica is a remarkable medicinal herb with a wide range of therapeutic characteristics, according to phytochemical, TLC and FTIR analysis of its leaves. In this study, M. marinum, a bacterium isolated from infected goldfish (C. auratus) was resistant to A. malabarica leaf – methanol extract, which shown promising antibacterial activity.','-','S. Jeba Sheeba, R. Raja Jeya Sekar, A. Harish and S.M. Vijila (2023). In Vitro Antibacterial Activity and FTIR Analysis of Anisomeles malabarica (L.) Leaves Extract against Mycobacterium marinum Affecting Gold Fish (Carassius auratus). Biological Forum – An International Journal, 15(5): 251-253.'),(6609,'157','Egg Quality characteristics of Peruvidai Chicken in Western Part of Tamil Nadu','T. Vasanthakumar, R. Amutha, D. Kannan, M. Ramachandran, A. S. Selvaramesh and P. Thirunavukkarasu ','Egg-Quality-characteristics-of-Peruvidai-Chicken-in-Western-Part-of-Tamil-Nadu-T-Vasanthakumar-36.pdf','',1,'A study was carried out in western part of Tamil Nadu to identify the egg quality characteristics of Peruvidai chicken. A total of 40 Peruvidai chicken eggs were chosen on the basis of stratified random sampling technique. The external egg quality traits like egg weight (g), shape index and specific gravity were 45.84 ± 0.69, 77.41 ± 0.49 and 1.06 ± 0.01, respectively. Among the total eggs collected 57.5 per cent eggs were brown in colour, whereas 42.5 per cent eggs were pale brown in colour. The internal egg quality traits like albumen index, albumen weight (g), albumen per cent, Haugh unit, yolk index, yolk weight (g), yolk per cent, yolk colour score, eggshell weight (g), eggshell per cent and eggshell thickness (mm) were 0.09 ± 0.00, 25.79 ± 0.42, 56.21 ± 0.22, 86.66 ± 0.58, 0.37 ± 0.01, 14.57 ± 0.21, 31.80 ± 0.16 and 7.65 ± 0.13, 5.49 ± 0.10, 11.98 ± 0.12 and 0.34 ± 0.00, respectively. The results of this study confirmed that the egg quality parameter of Peruvidai chicken is in line with other native chicken breeds present in India. ','Peruvidai chicken, egg quality traits, albumen index, yolk index, eggshell thickness','The present study revealed the Peruvidai chicken eggs external egg quality traits like egg weight (g), shape index and specific gravity as 45.84 ± 0.69, 77.41 ± 0.49 and 1.06 ± 0.01, respectively. Among the total eggs collected 57.5 per cent eggs were brown in colour, whereas 42.5 per cent eggs were pale brown in colour. The internal egg quality traits like albumen index, albumen weight (g), albumen per cent, Haugh unit, yolk index, yolk weight (g), yolk per cent, yolk colour score, eggshell weight (g), eggshell per cent and eggshell thickness (mm) were 0.09 ± 0.00, 25.79 ± 0.42, 56.21 ± 0.22, 86.66 ± 0.58, 0.37 ± 0.01, 14.57 ± 0.21, 31.80 ± 0.16 and 7.65 ± 0.13, 5.49 ± 0.10, 11.98 ± 0.12 and 0.34 ± 0.00, respectively. From the results of the above study, it may be concluded that the egg quality parameter of Peruvidai chicken is having closer similarity with other native chicken breeds present in India.','-','T. Vasanthakumar, R. Amutha, D. Kannan, M. Ramachandran, A. S. Selvaramesh and P. Thirunavukkarasu (2023). Egg Quality characteristics of Peruvidai Chicken in Western Part of Tamil Nadu. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 15(5): 254-257.'),(6610,'157','Assessment of Genetic Variability in Soybean (Glycine max L., Merrill)','Vijay Bairagi, Sheshnath Mishra, Ramraj Sen, Saurabh Dixit and Dinesh Baboo Tyagi','Assessment-of-Genetic-Variability-in-Soybean-(Glycine-max-L.,-Merrill)-Vijay-Bairagi-37.pdf','',1,'Among the farmers, it is always demand of high yielding varieties. Development of high yielding varieties is routine activities which involve identification of superior plants through selection and development of new varieties by breeder. In now a day due to climate change, continuous breeding efforts with identification of new lines for development of high yielding varieties is essential to overcome climate change effects in form of decline in yield production of present high yielding cultivars due to these changes. Thirty two soybean genotypes were evaluated for ten morphological characters during Kharif season, 2022 in Randomized Block Design with three replications at IARI-SKAF-CORC, Changli, Mandsaur. Analysis of variance depicted significant differences among the accessions for all the traits. The estimated value of phenotypic variance was higher than the corresponding genotypic variance for all the ten traits. PCV and GCV were moderate to low for all characters. GCV recorded was the highest for number of pods per plant (36.44%) followed by grain yield (33.98%), number of pods per cluster (22.91%) and plant height (17.51%). High PCV coupled with high GCV for number of pods per plant, grain yield, number of pods per cluster, plant height and numbers of primary branches per plant show presence of wider adaptability for these traits in the genotypes due to the less effect of environment in the expression of traits. Number of pods per plant (97.27%) had the highest heritability followed by grain yield (95.91%), number of pods per cluster (93.01%), plant height (88.34%), number of primary branches per plant (86.58) and 100 seed weight (83.04%). High heritability coupled with high genetic advance as percent of mean was observed for number of pods per plant, grain yield, number of pods per cluster, plant height and number of primary branches per plant indicating operation of additive gene action and the ample scope for improvement in these traits through simple selection. Considering genetic variability emphasis should be given on number of pods per plant, grain yield, number of pods per cluster, plant height and number of primary branches per plant during breeding program to improve seed yield of soybean.','Genetic Variability, Soybean, Genotypes, PCV, GCV, Genotypic Variance, Heritability','The data of analysis of variance produced the presence of significant genetic variability among the genotype for all ten characters including seed yield. Estimates of genetic variability parameters showed that phenotypic coefficient of variation was higher than respective genotypic coefficient of variation. High GCV was recorded for character grain yield (33.98 %), number of pods per plant (36.44%) and number of pods per cluster (22.91%) respectively. This study depicted high value of heritability indicates that predominance of additive gene action and there is least influenced of environment in characters. Hence direct phenotypic selection would be followed for these traits in breeding program for develop high yielding traits. High heritability coupled with high genetic advance as percent of mean recorded for number of pods per cluster, grain yield and number of pods per plant respectively. High heritability along with high genetic advance as percentage of mean indicated that there is an additive gene action so that they are selectable traits for future breeding program.','-','Vijay Bairagi, Sheshnath Mishra, Ramraj Sen, Saurabh Dixit and Dinesh Baboo Tyagi (2023). Assessment of Genetic Variability in Soybean (Glycine max L., Merrill). Biological Forum – An International Journal, 15(5): 258-263.'),(6611,'157','Marine Fish Biodiversity of Nellore District, South East Coast of Andhra Pradesh, India','Chenji Venkatrayulu and Vardi Venkateswarlu','Marine-Fish-Biodiversity-of-Nellore-District,-South-East-Coast-of-Andhra-Pradesh,-India-Vardi-Venkateswarlu-38.pdf','',1,'This study on marine fish diversity is aimed to assess and understand the composition, distribution and abundance of fish species in a specific marine ecosystem of Nellore coast. Marine species diversity was studied along the coast of the Bay of Bengal from two selected fish landing stations, Nelaturu and Krishnapatnam (Arcotpalem) in the Nellore coast of Andhra Pradesh, Southeast coast of India during the period October, 2020 to October, 2022. Andhra Pradesh has a diverse marine ecosystem and the state is one of the major fish producers in India. The most diverse fish communities are found in the shallow coastal areas, estuaries, and lagoons. The rich marine fish diversity in Andhra Pradesh highlights the importance of sustainable management and conservation of its marine resources for both ecological and socio-economic reasons. Throughout the study, various sampling methods were employed by the fishermen to collect fish samples and taxonomic identification was carried out to categorize the species. During the study period, 124 species from 33 orders and 58 families were identified except Deepsea fishes. The coastal areas of Nellore district, located on the Bay of Bengal, are also known for their abundant and diverse marine resources. The diversity of fish species in Nellore is influenced by a range of environmental factors, including temperature, salinity, ocean currents and nutrient availability. Anthropogenic disturbances and climatic changes have been identified as factors influencing fish population and diversity. As a result, it is critical to conserve marine biodiversity along Andhra Pradesh\'s Nellore coast. Biodiversity is part of fundamental research which helps the surveyors to analyse the migrating patterns and classify them under the various conservation lists. The current study also recorded the IUCN status of 124 marine species in various categories of conservation status.','Marine fisheries, Marine organisms, Bio-diversity, Conservation, IUCN status, Nellore','The research on marine fish diversity on the Nellore coast has provided vital insights into the region\'s diverse aquatic ecosystems. We discovered a broad array of fish species through extensive sampling and analysis, demonstrating the importance of the Nellore coast as a hotspot for marine biodiversity. The study discovered a great diversity of fish species in coastal waters, ranging from small reef-dwelling species to huge migratory species. This diversity emphasises the significance of preserving and conserving maritime environments along the Nellore coast in order to ensure the long-term viability of these species. The study also gave light on the ecological interactions and trophic dynamics of the marine ecosystem. We gained a better knowledge of the functions of various fish species in maintaining the ecosystem\'s balance and stability by analysing the food web and examining their feeding habits. The findings of this study can be used to develop effective conservation strategies and management plans for the marine resources of the Nellore coast. The conservation of these coastal waters\' biodiversity and habitats is critical not only for the health of the fish populations, but also for the lives of the local residents that rely on these resources. Overall, this work provides a platform for future research and emphasizes the significance of ongoing monitoring and conservation efforts to protect the environment.','-','Chenji Venkatrayulu and Vardi Venkateswarlu (2023). Marine Fish Biodiversity of Nellore District, South East Coast of Andhra Pradesh, India. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 15(5): 264-272.'),(6612,'157','A Comparative Study on the Effect of Seasonal Variation in the Phenolic Compound Concentration and the Antioxidant Properties in Five Common Leafy Vegetables','Shalaj Rasheed, Anakha R., Bini Babu, Rajeshwari D., Abhirami B, Anand A.R., Ancy Varghese, Devika Gopinath, Navya N.S., Parvathy V., Riya Reji, Vandhana Sivan, Maneesha M. and Lubaina Abdulhadeef Shereefa\r\n','A-Comparative-Study-on-the-Effect-of-Seasonal-Variation-in-the-Phenolic-Compound-Concentration-and-the-Antioxidant-Properties-in-Five-Common-Leafy-Vegetables-Shalaj-Rasheed-39.pdf','',1,'Metabolites in plants are the chemical compounds derived as the result of primary or secondary metabolism. Like that of primary metabolites the secondary metabolites also have greater importance in plant and human lives. Phenols, alkaloids, flavonoids, tannins, steroids, terpenoids and saponins are belong to this group, and which provide shelter to the plants from various Reactive oxygen species produce by the result of different environmental and biotic stresses. Reactive Oxygen Species (ROS) recognized as toxic byproducts of aerobic metabolism and also they played an important role in plants, controlling process such as growth development and especially response to biotic and abiotic environment stimuli. The cellular oxidation caused by ROS were alleviated in plants by producing non enzymatic and enzymatic ROS scavengers popularly known as antioxidants. The production of ROS were varied with respect to the seasons having different stressful conditions. Increased level of ROS were counter attacked by plants through the production of various antioxidants. Thus, their level also varied with respect to the concentration fluctuation of ROS and seasons. The major challenge of the study is to detect the variation in the concentration of phenols and identified the antioxidant property variation against the four different seasons such as winter, summer, south west monsoon and north east monsoon in five common leafy vegetables - Amaranthus hypochondriacus L., Murraya koenigii L., Cucurbita maxima L., Brassica oleracea L. and Moringa oleifera L. The result of the study revealed that the maximum antioxidant activity and phenolic concentration was reported in all plants in summer and winter seasons than the monsoon. During these seasons the plants faced much more abiotic stresses in addition to the internal stresses. In some plant specimens, the winter or summer is the season for flowering or prepared for reproduction. Thus, that will also make stresses in them along with environmental stresses. Moringa oleifera and Murraya koenigii showed high phenolic concentration and antioxidant property among the five studied plant specimens in all the seasons. This type of studies give an awareness to the people about the concentration of various secondary metabolites in plants in different seasons. Since man used many leafy vegetables directly after cooking or not, their higher concentration may negatively affect the human health.','Reactive Oxygen Species, Antioxidant compounds, Amaranthus hypochondriacus L., Murraya koenigii L., Cucurbita maxima L., Brassica oleracea L. and Moringa oleifera L','Plants are blessed with a large number of secondary metabolites that are produced by them as the part of their adaptations and defence against various biotic and abiotic factors. These phytochemicals with antioxidant properties have a plenty of uses in human life also. Phenols, alkaloids, flavonoids, tannins, terpenoids, saponins, steroids etc. are the common metabolites in plants, of these carbon based metabolites such as phenolic compounds are one of the major antioxidant in plants. The production and action of these antioxidant compounds varied with the variation of seasons having different environmental conditions. The present study aimed to identify the total phenolic content and antioxidant property in five leafy vegetables such as Amaranthus hypochondriacus, Murraya koenigii, Cucurbita maxima, Brassica oleracea and Moringa oleifera with respect to varied seasons. The result of the study revealed that the antioxidant activity and phenolic compound concentration is altered in different seasons. In all the plant materials, the antioxidant property and TPC are maximum during summer and winter seasons due to the impact of environmental factors and the stress behind the reproductive changes. Among the five plant materials, Murraya koenigii L. showed the high TPC and antioxidant property; Cucurbita maxima L., Brassica oleracea L. revealed lowest content of phenol and antioxidant property.','-','Shalaj Rasheed, Anakha R., Bini Babu, Rajeshwari D., Abhirami B, Anand A.R., Ancy Varghese, Devika Gopinath, Navya N.S., Parvathy V., Riya Reji, Vandhana Sivan, Maneesha M. and Lubaina Abdulhadeef Shereefa (2023). A Comparative Study on the Effect of Seasonal Variation in the Phenolic Compound Concentration and the Antioxidant Properties in Five Common Leafy Vegetables. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 15(5): 273-277.'),(6613,'157','Antioxidant Activity of Fruit Peel Extracts of Musa paradisiaca L.','Manju Madhavan and Shoymol Joy','Antioxidant-Activity-of-Fruit-Peel-Extracts-of-Musa-paradisiaca-L.-Manju-Madhavan-40.pdf','',1,'The study investigated the phytochemical characteristics and antioxidant activity of ripe and unripe peels of Musa paradisiaca L. Peels constitute about 40% of the whole fruit. As similar to other agricultural by-products, it is often discarded. It is well accepted that Musa peels are a rich source of a variety of bioactive substances such as carotenoids and polyphenols. In this work, ripe and unripe banana peel extracts were prepared using ethyl acetate, petroleum ether, and distilled water. It was observed that both the ripe and unripe peel extracts showed antioxidant properties when compared with standard gallic acid. Ripe peel petroleum ether extract showed maximum antioxidant activity. In ethyl acetate and distilled water extract, maximum activity was observed in the unripe peel. This study confirms the potential of Musa paradisiaca L. fruit peel to be transformed into functional food as the crude extracts of peels exhibits rich antioxidant activity.','Antioxidant assay, DPPH Activity, Musa paradisiaca, Waste material, Phytochemical analysis','The study confirms the presence of phytochemicals and antioxidant properties in the crude extracts of Musa paradisiacal L peel which is thrown away as waste material from the various banana processing industries. ','-','Manju Madhavan and Shoymol Joy (2023). Antioxidant Activity of Fruit Peel Extracts of Musa paradisiaca L. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 15(5): 278-282.'),(6614,'157','Antioxidant Activity of Fruit Peel Extracts of Musa paradisiaca L.','Manju Madhavan and Shoymol Joy','Antioxidant-Activity-of-Fruit-Peel-Extracts-of-Musa-paradisiaca-L.-Manju-Madhavan-40.pdf','',4,'The study investigated the phytochemical characteristics and antioxidant activity of ripe and unripe peels of Musa paradisiaca L. Peels constitute about 40% of the whole fruit. As similar to other agricultural by-products, it is often discarded. It is well accepted that Musa peels are a rich source of a variety of bioactive substances such as carotenoids and polyphenols. In this work, ripe and unripe banana peel extracts were prepared using ethyl acetate, petroleum ether, and distilled water. It was observed that both the ripe and unripe peel extracts showed antioxidant properties when compared with standard gallic acid. Ripe peel petroleum ether extract showed maximum antioxidant activity. In ethyl acetate and distilled water extract, maximum activity was observed in the unripe peel. This study confirms the potential of Musa paradisiaca L. fruit peel to be transformed into functional food as the crude extracts of peels exhibits rich antioxidant activity.','Antioxidant assay, DPPH Activity, Musa paradisiaca, Waste material, Phytochemical analysis','The study confirms the presence of phytochemicals and antioxidant properties in the crude extracts of Musa paradisiacal L peel which is thrown away as waste material from the various banana processing industries. ','-','Manju Madhavan and Shoymol Joy (2023). Antioxidant Activity of Fruit Peel Extracts of Musa paradisiaca L. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 15(5): 278-282.'),(6615,'157','Exploration of Potent Biocontrol Agent against the Damping off Disease of Tomato (Pythium aphanidematum) and its in-vitro Management','Sultana A.S., Thiruvudainambi S., Masurkar P. and Kumar A.','Exploration-of-Potent-Biocontrol-Agent-Against-the-Damping-off-Disease-of-Tomato-(Pythium-aphanidematum)-and-its-in-vitro-Management-Sultana-AS-41.pdf','',1,'The identification of potential biocontrol agents from the large-scale screening conducted in surveyed regions, as well as evaluating their efficacy, was a very cumbersome task. A total number of twenty isolates of two different biocontrol agents ten each of Trichoderma sp. and Pseudomonas sp. were isolated from soils of Tirunelveli Tamil Nadu, India, and were evaluated for their ability to inhibit plant pathogenic Pythium aphanidematum in vitro. We evaluated the bio-control agent from the same place as the disease. It was found that the isolates had the pathogenic inhibitory ability and also control Pythium aphanidematum damping-off in tomatoes in interested field soils. Both the isolates tested significantly reduced damping-off severity in tomatoes. A difference in their effect on plant disease severity, percentage of dead plants, and plant biomass in the pathogen\'s presence was also observed among both fungal and bacterial isolates. In vitro, the efficacy of the screened potential bio-control agents i.e. four Trichoderma and three Pseudomonas species was analyzed. 4 fungal (TNAUF2, TNAUF6, TNAUF9, TNAUF12) and 3 bacterial (TNAUB3, TNAUB6, and TNAUB10) isolates showed significant inhibition against Pythium aphanidematum over control. The highest percent inhibition was found in TNAUF6 (T. viride) isolate and the minimum percent inhibition was found in TNAUB10 (Pseudomonas fluorescens). This study is important because native bio-control agents are expected to work more efficiently.','Biological Control, Damping off, Tomato, Trichoderma, Pseudomonas, Pythium','The in vitro management strategies provide valuable insights for optimizing the application of the biocontrol agent in a controlled environment. Further research is warranted to evaluate the efficacy of the biocontrol agent under field conditions and assess its compatibility with existing integrated pest management practices.','-','Sultana A.S., Thiruvudainambi S., Masurkar P. and Kumar A. (2023). Exploration of Potent Biocontrol Agent Against the Damping off Disease of Tomato (Pythium aphanidematum) and its in-vitro Management. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 15(5): 283-288.'),(6616,'157','Effect of Nano-chitosan, Nano-micronutrients and Bio Capsules on Yield and Quality of Strawberry (Fragaria × ananassa) cv. Winter Dawn','Ravi Kumar Singh, Saket Mishra and Vijay Bahadur','Effect-of-Nano-chitosan,-Nano-micronutrients-and-Bio-Capsules-on-Yield-and-Quality-of-Strawberry-(Fragaria-×-ananassa)-cv.-Winter-Dawn-Ravi-Kumar-Singh-42.pdf','',1,'Application of inorganic fertilizers in large amount have been a major challenge for agricultural production. Not only it is reducing the crop production but also damaging the soil fertility. So keeping all this in mind a research entitled “Effect of Nano-chitosan, Nano-micronutrients and Bio capsules on yield and qualitative attributes of Strawberry (Fragaria × ananassa) cv. Winter dawn” was carried out at the Research Farm of the Department of Horticulture at Sam Higginbottom University of Agriculture, Technology & Sciences in Prayagraj (U.P.), during the academic years of 2020–2021 and 2021–2022. Fifteen treatments using various combinations of N, P, K, nano chitosan, bio capsules, and nano particles of ZnO and FeO were tested in a Randomised Block Design with three replicates. The experiment\'s primary objective was to determine the effect of nano technology on the yield and qualitative traits of strawberry cv. Winter dawn. According to the findings of this study, application of Nanochitosan 100 ppm (Soil drenching) + Biocapsule 500ppm + foliar application of ZnO and FeO nano particles (NPs) after 30 and 60 days of transplanting supplemented with recommended N P K (RDF) proved to be most effective treatment to increase yield and qualitative traits of strawberry. However, without synthetic inputs, biocapsules improve fruit quality, yield, and plant health by releasing compounds into the rhizosphere that may inhibit different diseases as biocontrol agents, several of these bacteria have demonstrated the ability to support the growth of strawberry plants.','Bio capsules, Fragaria ananassa, Nano-chitosan, Nano-micronutrients, Strawberry yield, Quality, Winter Dawn','Based on the results, treatment T14[N P K (RDF) + Nanochitosan 100 ppm (Soil drenching) + Biocapsule 500ppm + foliar application of ZnO and FeO nano particles (NPs)] was the most efficient treatment at boosting yield and quality characteristics. Despite the lack of synthetic inputs, biocapsules have been shown to increase strawberry plant growth, yield, and health by releasing compounds into the rhizosphere that may inhibit various diseases as biocontrol agents. This practice in production of strawberry can be forwarded to the strawberry farmers to enhance their production and productivity.','-','Ravi Kumar Singh, Saket Mishra and Vijay Bahadur (2023). Effect of Nano-chitosan, Nano-micronutrients and Bio Capsules on Yield and Quality of Strawberry (Fragaria × ananassa) cv. Winter Dawn. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 15(5): 289-295.'),(6617,'157','Association and Path Coefficient Analysis in Rice Germplasm for Panicle Architectural and Yield Attributing Traits','Agalya Jasmin S., Hari Prasanth P., Ramchander S., Dinesh Kumar P., Devesena N., Naveenkumar R., Sugitha Thankappan and John Kingsly N.B. ','Association-and-Path-Coefficient-Analysis-in-Rice-Germplasm-for-Panicle-Architectural-and-Yield-Attributing-Traits-Agalya-Jasmin-S-43.pdf','',1,'Rice is known as a prime food for more than half of the global population. Due to the expanding population on world, it is essential to increase productivity and production of rice. Therefore, increasing the grain yield has become one of the main goals for the breeders. Improving the panicle architecture and yield attributing traits has been the leading target domain in high-yield breeding in rice. Hence, to develop an economically viable variety, plant breeders need to employ an effective selection technique that takes into account the link between yield and the contributing characteristics i.e., panicle architecture traits. The present study is being carried out to examine the phenotypic, genotypic correlation, and path coefficient analysis of 69 genotypes of rice. Single plant yield, spikelet fertility, the number of filled grains per panicle, and panicle weight were found to be significantly positively correlated with the panicle architecture and yield-attributing traits. Thus, choosing individuals with these traits can increase yield. According to path coefficient analysis the traits namely, the number of productive tillers, number of filled grains, and 1000 grain weight were found to have a direct positive impact on yield. Hence, choosing this character could increase yield and yield components.','Rice, Panicle architecture, Phenotypic correlation, Genotypic correlation, Path analysis','Concisely, the rice landraces and varieties under study have the potential to include several significant and beneficial traits. According to the path analysis and assessment of phenotypic and genotypic correlation, the most trustworthy variables for increasing rice production were the number of productive tillers, the number of filled grains per panicle, and 1000grain weight. So, when choosing to improve rice productivity, the highest priority should be given to these characteristics. ','-','Agalya Jasmin S., Hari Prasanth P., Ramchander S., Dinesh Kumar P., Devesena N., Naveenkumar R., Sugitha Thankappan and John Kingsly N.B. (2023). Association and Path coefficient Analysis in Rice Germplasm for Panicle Architectural and Yield Attributing Traits. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 15(5): 296-303.'),(6618,'157','Prevalence of Ectoparasitism among Water Birds at in-situ and ex-situ Conservations of Tamil Nadu, India','Shanmuga Sundaram A., Jayathangaraj M.G., Gomathinayagam S., Thangavelu A. and Thirumurugan R. ','Prevalence-of-Ectoparasitism-among-Water-Birds-at-in-situ-and-ex-situ-Conservations-of-Tamil-Nadu,-India-Shanmuga-Sundaram-A-44.pdf','',1,'Birds may harbor a great variety and number of ectoparasites. In birds, many of the studies have focused on parasites and host reproductive success. Parasitism may affect the reproduction of hosts; nestlings support high numbers of host reproductive success. With this background, a study was conducted to explore the prevalence of ectoparasites in migratory and resident water fowlof wildlife sanctuaries and zoos in and around Chennai, Tamil Nadu state, India. Ectoparasitic fauna such as ticks and lice were identified in fallen feather samples collected from both the free-ranging areas and captive bird areas under study. Ticks have been identified as Argas persicus and lice as Lipeurus caponis. At Vedanthangal Bird Sanctuary, 17.50% of 40 samples revealed evidence of ectoparasites in water birds, while 10% of 10 samples at Karikili Bird Sanctuary respectively. Study carried out with fallen feather samples (n=40) from Arignar Anna Zoological Park revealed ectoparasitic evidence comprising of ticks and lice in 25% of the feather samples, with 60% obtained from water birds reared at Guindy Children’s Corner. In terms of tick prevalence, there were highly significant differences (P<0.01) between these two locations. In comparison between in-situ and ex-situ areas, highly significant variations (p<0.01) were revealed in ticks (Argas persicus) as well as in the overall positivity of ectoparasitic prevalence.','Ectoparasites, in-situ, ex-situ, Migratory and Resident water birds','Ectoparasites like ticks and lice can affect free-ranging water birds, and the incidence was higher in captive habitats. Preventive measures to control ectoparasites include disposal of dead birds, and breaking the life-cycle of the ectoparasite through interventions in habitat including tree barks. In severe cases, treatment with ectoparasiticide applications or parenteral injections could be advocated. The barks of the trees should be examined for evidence of ectoparasites and acaricides should be used without damage to the tree. Contacts between captive water birds and free-ranging water birds should be prevented to minimize the spread of ectoparasitic infection.','-','Shanmuga Sundaram A., Jayathangaraj M.G., Gomathinayagam S., Thangavelu A. and Thirumurugan R. (2023). Prevalence of Ectoparasitism among Water Birds at in-situ and ex-situ Conservations of Tamil Nadu, India. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 15(5): 304-307.'),(6619,'157','In Vitro Evaluation of the Anti-inflammatory and Antioxidant Properties of Mesua ferrea Linn. Stem Bark Extract','Jyothsna K., Manjunatha H. and Ravi Kumar S.','In Vitro Evaluation of the Anti-inflammatory and Antioxidant Properties of Mesua ferrea Linn. Stem Bark Extract-Jyothsna K-45.pdf','',1,'Plants rich in antioxidants are also a potential source of and exhibit anti-inflammatory effects paving the path for the development of new drugs with minimal/no side effects. Hence, in this study, the antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties of the ethanolic extract of Mesua ferrea Linn. stem bark were evaluated using various in vitro methods. The qualitative and quantitative analyses were conducted to determine the presence of secondary metabolites. The extract exhibited significant antioxidant activity, as demonstrated by its ability to scavenge 2,2-Diphenyl-1-picrylhydrazyl (DPPH), nitric oxide, hydroxyl radicals, and metal chelating ability. The extract\'s anti-inflammatory activity was also assessed by measuring the inhibition of pro-inflammatory cytokines, NO, PGE2 production, HRBC membrane stabilization, protein denaturation, inhibitory effects on proteinase, lipoxygenase and cyclooxygenase. The results showed that the ethanolic extract possessed substantial antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties, making it a promising source for the development of novel drugs with minimal side effects.','Mesua Ferrea Linn., Antioxidant, Anti-inflammatory, Macrophages, cytokines','The current study demonstrates that the ethanol extract of MF stem bark exhibits significant antioxidant and anti-inflammatory effects. The presence of alkaloids, flavonoids, and other phenolic compounds in the extract contribute to these observed activities, as they exhibit dose-dependent scavenging of free radicals. Moreover, our findings indicate that the extract effectively inhibits the production of TNF-α, IL-1β, IL-6, NO, and PGE2 in LPS-stimulated THP-1 cells. Further investigations are required to identify the active constituents of the extract and elucidate their mechanisms of action.','-','Jyothsna K., Manjunatha H. and Ravi Kumar S. (2023). In Vitro Evaluation of the Anti-inflammatory and Antioxidant Properties of Mesua ferrea Linn. Stem Bark Extract. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 15(5): 308-318.'),(6620,'157','Effect of Integrated Plant Nutrition System based Soil Test Crop Response Correlation Studies on the Potassium Fractions of Soil in a Vertisol of Chhattisgarh','Jyoti Bala, L.K. Srivastava, Jagriti Patel, V.N. Mishra, R.K. Banwasi and Gourav Jatav ','Effect-of-Integrated-Plant-Nutrition-System-based-Soil-Test-Crop-Response-Correlation-Studies-on-the-Potassium-Fractions-of-Soil-in-a-Vertisol-of-Chhattisgarh-Jyoti-Bala-46.pdf','',1,'In an experiment conducted at the Indira Gandhi Krishi Vishwavidyalaya, Raipur (Chhattisgarh) with sweet corn as the main crop, various fractions of potassium in soil were analyzed, and their relationship with each other and with the potassium uptake and yield of sweet corn was studied. The experiment included 72 different treatment combinations as per the procedure for conducting a fertility gradient experiment under soil test crop response correlation approach, with four levels each of nitrogen, phosphorous and potassium fertilizers at varying levels of organic manure (farm yard manure). The results showed the order of dominance of the fractions in soil as: Lattice-K > Non-exchangeable K > Exchangeable K > Water soluble K. Exchangeable and non-exchangeable K showed the highest response due to the varying levels of fertilizer K in soil. It was observed that all the forms of K were positively and significantly correlated with each other, which supports well the dynamic equilibrium of K existing in soil. All the forms were significantly and positively correlated with the green cob yields and K uptake of sweet corn. However, non-exchangeable (r2 value of 0.62) and exchangeable K (r2 value of 0.63) showed highest correlations with the K uptake of sweet corn. This suggests that the non-exchangeable K and exchangeable K can be tested for fertilizer recommendation under soil test crop response correlation studies to determine the inherent supply of potassium by the soil.','Exchangeable-K, non-exchangeable-K, lattice-K, soil test crop response correlation approach, farm yard manure','The order of dominance of the fractions of K in soil was: Lattice-K > Non-exchangeable K > Exchangeable K > Water soluble K. High correlation among all the forms of K indicates the existence of dynamic equilibrium in soil. Exchangeable and non-exchangeable K fractions of soil were significantly affected by different levels of soil K as compared to the other fractions. Further, they contributed highest towards the K uptake of sweet corn. This suggests that the requirement of K for sweet corn is not only met through available K, but also through soil reserves K. Therefore, non-exchangeable and exchangeable K can be used for soil test calibration methods to determine the soil inherent K status and thus, for fertilizer recommendations.','-','Jyoti Bala, L.K. Srivastava, Jagriti Patel, V.N. Mishra, R.K. Banwasi and Gourav Jatav (2023). Effect of Integrated Plant Nutrition System based Soil Test Crop Response Correlation Studies on the Potassium Fractions of Soil in a Vertisol of Chhattisgarh. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 15(5): 319-325.'),(6621,'157','Morphological Characterization of Mungbean [Vigna radiata (L.) Wilczek] Genotypes using DUS Descriptors','Navreet Kaur Rai, Ravika, Rajesh Yadav, Amit and Karuna','Morphological Characterization of Mungbean [Vigna radiata (L.) Wilczek] Genotypes using DUS Descriptors-Ravika-47.pdf','',1,'Mungbean [Vigna radiata (L.) Wilczek] is one of the major pulses of India, diversely grown in different agro-climatic zones during summer and kharif seasons. Distinctness, Uniformity and Stability (DUS) characterization is a significant approach in identifying and evaluating diverse genotypes for quality seed production. Therefore, the present experiment was conducted to characterize and evaluate variation present in mungbean genotypes through DUS descriptors. One hundred forty-two mungbean genotypes were analysed using 29 agro-morphological (21 qualitative and 8 quantitative) DUS descriptors in randomized block design with two replications during kharif 2021. Among twenty-nine DUS characters studied, nine characters showed trimorphic variation, viz., plant growth habit, leaf shape, leaf size, seed size, plant height, number of branches per plant, number of pods per plant, number of seeds per pod and seed yield per plant. Seventeen characters had dimorphic variation and three characters (plant habit, stem pubescence and pod pubescence) were found similar in all the genotypes. A remarkable amount of variation was found in all the mungbean genotypes for these DUS descriptors. ','Distinctness, Uniformity, Stability, Vigna radiata (L.) Wilczek, quality seed production','In present study, a significant amount of variation was reported in all the genotypes studied using diverse DUS descriptors. Trimorphic grouping was seen in nine characters and three characters showed lack of variation in them. Rest of seventeen characters had dimorphic grouping of all the genotypes. Overall, present DUS characterization of mungbean genotypes can be further used in future breeding programmes as reference to identify and classify various genotypes into different categories for specific trait. The present study also facilitates the easy registration of new genotypes with these distinct characters under PPVFRA and highlighted the importance of introduction of new germplasm for the broadening of genetic base at Research station. ','-','Navreet Kaur Rai, Ravika, Rajesh Yadav, Amit and Karuna (2023). Morphological Characterization of Mungbean [Vigna radiata (L.) Wilczek] Genotypes using DUS Descriptors. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 15(5): 326-338.'),(6622,'157','Performance of Different Lentil varieties under varying Sowing Time in Eastern Semi-arid Sub Zone of Haryana','Meena Sewhag, D.S. Ahlawat, Neeraj Pawar, Ajay Singh and Gurdeep Singh Malhi','Performance-of-Different-Lentil-varieties-under-varying-Sowing-Time-in-Eastern-Semi-arid-Sub-Zone-of-Haryana-Meena-Sewhag-48.pdf','',1,'Determination of optimum sowing time of Lentil varieties is important as declining temperatures may affect the final yield. There is limited information available on the optimum sowing date for lentil in waterlogged saline soil of Rohtak. So, field study were conducted during rabi season of 2020-21 and 2021-2022 at Research farm of CCSHAU Regional Research Station, Rohtak to study the effects of date of sowing and varieties on phenology and agronomical traits of lentil. The experiment was laid out in a split plot design with five dates of sowing viz., 30th October, 10th November, 20th November, 30th November, and 10th December in main plots and three lentil varieties viz., Sapna, HM 1 and Garima in sub plots replicated thrice. Overall results depicted that significantly more number of days was taken to attain 50% flowering, 50 % podding and maturity in 30th October sown crop than other sowing dates. Delayed sowing of lentil upto 10th December resulted in 15.43%, 14.80% and 14.63 % lower seed yield than 30th October, 10th November, and 20th November sown lentil respectively. Lentil variety Sapna is being at par with HM1 recorded significantly higher seed yield than Garima at all the dates of sowing, except in case of 30th November sown lentil where seed yield recorded in variety HM 1 was significantly higher than Sapna and Garima varieties. The crop sown on 30th October is at par with 10th and 20th November sown crop produced significantly higher seed yield over 30th November and 10th December sown crop. Among different lentil varieties Sapna being at par with HM 1 produced significantly higher seed yield and better yield attributes (100 seed weight, Number of pods/plant and No. of grains/pod) than Garima (1291 kg/ha). Both Sapna and HM1 varieties performed better than Garima variety at all the dates of sowing. In 30th November sown lentil, seed yield recorded in variety HM 1 was significantly higher than Sapna while Sapna outperforms rest two varieties (HM1 and Garima) at all the dates of sowing.','Lentil, sowing date, variety, seed yield, Garima, Sapna and HM 1','It may be concluded that October 30th sown lentil crop being at par with 10th, 20th and 30th November sown crop produced 18.14 % higher seed yield than 10th December sown crop. Lentil variety Sapna outperforms rest two varieties (HM 1 and Garima) at all the dates of sowing, except in case of 30th November sown lentil where seed yield recorded in variety HM 1 was significantly higher than Sapna and Garima varieties.','-','Meena Sewhag, D.S. Ahlawat, Neeraj Pawar, Ajay Singh and Gurdeep Singh Malhi (2023). Performance of Different Lentil varieties under varying Sowing Time in Eastern Semi-arid Sub Zone of Haryana. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 15(5): 339-342.'),(6623,'157','Design and Evaluation of Fast Dissolving Tablet Containing Diclofenac Sodium using Caesalpinia pulcherrima Galactomannan as A Natural Superdisintegrant','Thombre N.A., Sonawane S.S., Jadhav A.R., Jogdand R.R., Dhavale S.H., Jadhav V.S., Choudhari S.M. and Raut P.','Design-and-Evaluation-of-Fast-Dissolving-Tablet-Containing-Diclofenac-Sodium-using-Caesalpinia-pulcherrima-Galactomannan-as-A-Natural-Superdisintegrant-Thombre-NA-49.pdf','',1,'An oral dosage form containing diclofenac sodium prepared by using Caesalpinia pulcherrima galactomannan (CPG) as a natural superdisintegrant. In order to prepare the diclofenac sodium tablet, the direct compression method was used. Superdisintegrant property of this polymer is not yet discovered. Trial batches were taken and by that the final formulation were prepared. Superdisintegrant property 32 factorial design applied at MET with quantity of drug, CPG and lactose as dependent variables. CPG were used as superdisintegrant and lactose were used as directly compressible excipient. The developed tablets underwent testing for hardness, friability, DT, and in vitro drug release. Design Expert 13 described adequately impact of selected variables (CPG and lactose) at various levels for response under study of disintegration and drug release. The optimized batch showed disintegration time 942.00 sec and in vitro drug release between 90.64±0.0023 % The current experimental design study showed that CPG and lactose were effective in developing optimised formulations at low concentrations. It can be inferred from the experimental findings that CPG exhibited superdisintegrant action.','Diclofenac sodium, Caesalpinia pulcherrima galactomannan (CPG), Superdisintegrant, Lactose, Direct compression','The present work involves to formulate diclofenac sodium as fast dissolving tablets (FDT) using Caesalpinia pulcherrima galactomannan as a natural superdisintegrant. FDTs containing various incorporating active ingredients were evaluated for effect of various excipients FDTs containing various excipients were evaluated for disintegration and dissolution. The current study claimed as an ideal tool for development of product as per ideal limits.','-','Thombre N.A., Sonawane S.S., Jadhav A.R., Jogdand R.R., Dhavale S.H., Jadhav V.S., Choudhari S.M. and Raut P. (2023). Design and Evaluation of Fast Dissolving Tablet Containing Diclofenac Sodium using Caesalpinia pulcherrima Galactomannan as A Natural Superdisintegrant. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 15(5): 343-350.'),(6624,'157','Cluster analyses for various Agro-morphological traits in Fieldpea (Pisum sativum L.) Genotypes','Amit, Rajesh Yadav, Ravika, Deepak Kaushik and Navreet Kaur Rai ','Cluster-analyses-for-various-Agro-morphological-traits-in-Fieldpea-(Pisum-sativum-L.)-Genotypes-Ravika-50.pdf','',1,'Fieldpea (Pisum sativum L.), a multi-functional, highly nutritious winter-season pulse crop. It has tremendous potential to offer health benefits, especially with the heightened emphasis on nutrition. In any breeding programme, choosing parental genotypes that might produce better heterotic combinations requires an understanding of the genetic variety present among genotypes of crop. So, with this objective present investigation were carried out among thirty nine fieldpea genotypes. Experiment consisting of 39 genotypes (12 parents and their 27 crosses) were held in randomized block design with three replication at Pulses Research Area, Department of Genetics and Plant Breeding, CCS, Haryana Agricultural University, Hisar during rabi 2020-21. As due to continuous selection pressure for specific traits like yield, the varieties have become more vulnerable to biotic and abiotic stresses, which has jeopardized their potential for long-term sustained genetic improvement. So, there is need to isolate the superior inbreds and hybrids that can be used as a further breeding programme. Results revealed that thirteen agro-morphological traits delineated 39 genotypes into four major clusters. Furthermore, higher inter-cluster distance was observed than intra-cluster distance. The maximum intra-cluster distance was observed in cluster I (75.60) and the maximum inter cluster distance was observed between cluster Ⅰ and cluster IV (94.97). Cluster II and cluster I has high mean value for most of the traits. So, In order to create superior hybrids, the genotypes in cluster II can be crossed with genotypes of cluster I.','Agro-morphological traits, Pisum sativum L., superior inbreds, genotypes','In the current study, 39 genotypes were investigated for diversity in order to find compatible and distinctive genotypes for pearl millet breeding programmes. There was substantial genetic variation among the genotypes for most traits, connoting the urgency of exploiting a high degree of genetic variation through selection. Different genotypes of cluster II would be crossed with genotypes of cluster I in order to improve seed yield. These genotypes would also be used as inbred lines for future hybrid development programmes. The results of the present study would help to identify heterotic clusters and superior parents for structuring breeding strategies to develop improved field pea cultivars. Cluster analysis in field pea crops provides a valuable tool for understanding the genetic diversity and structure within populations, aiding in the development of improved cultivars with desirable traits. It enables breeders to make informed decisions by identifying germplasm groups and selecting suitable parents for crossing, ultimately contributing to the enhancement of field pea varieties.','-','Amit, Rajesh Yadav, Ravika, Deepak Kaushik and Navreet Kaur Rai (2023). Cluster analyses for various Agro-morphological traits in Fieldpea (Pisum sativum L.) Genotypes. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 15(5): 351-355.'),(6625,'157','Hepatoprotective Evaluation of Biophytum umbraculum Leaf Against Paracetamol and Alcohol Induced Hepatic Damage in Male Wistar Rats','Raja Chandra G. and Raunak Dhanker','Hepatoprotective-Evaluation-of-Biophytum-umbraculum-Leaf-Against-Paracetamol-and-Alcohol-Induced-Hepatic-Damage-in-Male-Wistar-Rats-RAJA-CHANDRA-G-51.pdf','',1,'The liver assists in intestinal digestion and performs a diverse variety of functions including bile secretion, bilirubin metabolism, metabolic detoxification, nutrient storage, and metabolism along with other vascular, hematological, and endocrine functions. Liver disease in acute conditions displays hepatitis, steatosis, or both which when left untreated progresses from fibrosis and then to cirrhosis whereas, in chronic conditions, it displays jaundice, encephalopathy, coagulopathy, portal disease, etc. Many synthetic-based drugs have been used to treat liver disorders; however, these medications have negative side effects such as despair, insomnia, vomiting, and constipation. More studies on plants and herbs that might replace chemical-based medications are necessary. The current study focussed on assessing the hepatoprotective activity of Biophytum umbraculum. Plant-derived active moieties with their ability to capture free radicals are known to challenge pathophysiological events making them prophylactic as well as curative via phytotherapy. The biochemical constituents reported from Biophytum umbraculum include primary components, antioxidants, and antinutrients along with secondary metabolites. This study enumerated the hepatoprotection offered by Biophytum umbraculum leaf extract against the paracetamol and alcohol induced hepatocellular damage after examining the acute toxicrange of the extract. Levels of biochemical parameters namely glucose, cholesterol, serum transaminases, alkaline phosphatase, along with total and direct bilirubin revealed adequate protection offered by Biophytum umbraculum leaf extract (BULE). Tissue estimates revealed inhibition of lipid peroxidase (LPO) enzyme activity at p > 0.05 in both paracetamol and alcohol induced hepatotoxicity, prominent antioxidant potential through reduced glutathione (GSH) with p ≤ 0.001 in paracetamol, and p ≤ 0.0001 in alcohol induced hepatotoxic animal models while a non-significant upsurge of superoxide dismutase (SOD) at p>0.05 was observed in both paracetamol and alcohol induced hepatotoxicity. All the results accompanied the histopathological evidence in showing dose-dependent protection offered by Biophytum umbraculum leaf extract with mild to no signs of necrosis.','Liver, phytotherapy, Biophytum umbraculum, hepatoprotection, necrosis','The results in the present study have specified that the leaf extract of Biophytum umbraculum has antioxidant potential that offers significant protection against paracetamol induced and alcohol-induced hepatotoxicity in male Wistar rats and elaborative research on the mechanisms at the molecular level would be conclusive to justify the hepatoprotective action of Biophytum umbraculum leaf extract (BULE).','-','Raja Chandra G. and Raunak Dhanker (2023). Hepatoprotective Evaluation of Biophytum umbraculum Leaf Against Paracetamol and Alcohol Induced Hepatic Damage in Male Wistar Rats. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 15(5): 356-366.'),(6626,'157','Evaluation and Investigation of the Antidiabetic Effect of Aqueous and Hydroalcoholic Extract of Elaeocarpus ganitrus (Rudraksha)','Subhashish Tripathy, Amit Mishra and Arun Kumar Mishra','Evaluation-and-Investigation-of-the-Antidiabetic-Effect-of-Aqueous-and-Hydroalcoholic-Extract-of-Elaeocarpus-ganitrus-(Rudraksha)-Tripathy-S-52.pdf','',1,'This experimental study investigated the antidiabetic effect of aqueous and hydroalcoholic extract of the Elaeocarpus ganitrus (Rudraksha) plant, which is usually used to cure many diseases due to its electromagnetic property. Diabetic was induced in fasted rats by inducing a single intraperitoneal injection of 150 mg Kg-1 of Alloxan monohydrate. Two doses (550 and 1050mg Kg-1) of these aqueous and hydroalcoholic extracts of Elaeocarpus ganitrus were administrated orally to diabetic rats. The standard control group receives distilled water only. After half a month (15 days) of treatment, body weight gain, blood glucose level, Serum insulin other body metabolites were studied and evaluated for Diabetic. It was noticed that at tested doses, aqueous and hydroalcoholic extract of Elaeocarpus ganitrus decreased blood glucose levels significantly after half month of administration. The aqueous extract reduces body weight gain, contrary to the hydroalcoholic section. Increase Serum insulin level compared in the group, treated group and diabetic control group. The hydroalcoholic extract reduces the monohydrate concentration in Serum. Values of total cholesterol and triglyceride are similar in all groups. This study demonstrated the potential antidiabetic property of aqueous and hydroalcoholic extract of Elaeocarpus ganitrus. thus justifying its traditional usage. The purpose of this research is to understand the antidiabetic effects of Rudraksha and gain an understanding of the challenges faced by novice researchers and students when examining the antidiabetic effects of the Elaeocarpus ganitrus plant. Research has improved the globe by addressing the issue of therapeutic Rudraksha use that is currently present. ','Rudraksha, Elaeocarpus ganitrus, blood glucose, insulin, antidiabetic effect','The experimental study concluded that the Elaeocarpus ganitrus extract exhibited antidiabetic activity by stimulating serum insulin levels in Alloxan-influenced rats. This exploratory study shows that Elaeocarpus ganitrus can help in the treatment of diabetes and the prevention of its complication. For a better understanding of the results, further scientific research may encourage new researchers in this field. ','-','Subhashish Tripathy, Amit Mishra and Arun Kumar Mishra (2023). Evaluation and Investigation of the Antidiabetic Effect of Aqueous and Hydroalcoholic Extract of Elaeocarpus ganitrus (Rudraksha). Biological Forum – An International Journal, 15(5): 367-371.'),(6627,'157','In vitro efficacy of fungicides on Uredospore Germination Inhibition of Puccinia graminis tritici','Shipra Sharma, Rashmi D. and S. I. Patel','In-vitro-efficacy-Offungicides-on-Uredospore-Germination-Inhibition-of-Puccinia-graministritici-Shipra-Sharma-53.pdf','',1,'Wheat is one of the important cereals and is highest produced grain in the world after corn and rice. It is the second most important crop in India next to rice. Like several crops, wheat is also prone to diseases. Among various diseases, wheat stem rust is the main biotic constraint to wheat production and it is important to understand and analyse the disease in terms of pathological and biochemical responses. Systemic fungicides belonging to group of triazole, strobilurin and benzimidazoles exhibited effective mean uredospore germination inhibition in the range of 76.74 to 94.83 per cent. Significantly, the high mean inhibition of 95.33 per cent was recorded in propiconazole, followed by hexaconazole with 92.76 per cent germination inhibition. Least uredospore germination inhibition (76.74) was found in carbendazim. Effective inhibition of combined fungicides was ranged from 83.21 to 96.38 per cent. Nearly complete (99.22 %) inhibition of germination of uredospores was exhibited by azoxystrobin + tebuconazole at highest concentration of 500ppm. It was noticed that carbendazim + mancozeb at 100 ppm performed inferiorly compared to other treatments by recording the least uredospore germination inhibition of 79.85 per cent. Evaluation of various fungicides helps in the determination of suitable chemical for management and overcome fungicidal resistance. Emergence of new races also pose threat to current fungicide in use. Hence rigorous evaluation of combination fungicides help in understanding the efficacy against rust pathogen.','Wheat, rust, inhibition, urediospores, fungicides','Propiconazole and hexaconazole were found to be the best performing fungicides in vitro by recording mean germination inhibition of 94.83 and 92.76 per cent. The uredospore germination inhibition was comparatively low (76.74%) in carbendazim. Among the combined fungicides, Azoxystrobin + tebucanazole and tebuconazole + trifloxistrobin proved to be the best fungicides in vitro with mean uredospore germination inhibition of 96.38 and 95.09 per cent. Carbendazim + mancozeb resulted in 83.21 per cent mean uredospore germination inhibition and thereby proved comparatively inferior.\r\nA rapid method of quantifying the fungicide effectiveness with detached leaves was developed to study wheat stripe rust, caused by Puccinia striiformis f. sp. tritici. The results revealed that 0.5% water agar containing 75 μg/ml of 6-benzylaminopurine and filter paper worked the best for maintaining wheat leaves. The disease incidences of different concentrations of spore suspension were compared. When the spore concentrations were 5 and 10 mg/ml, the disease incidences had no significant differences at 12 and 15 days after inoculation (P < 0.05). Fungicide treatment tests revealed that there were no significant differences in the efficacies of triadimefon on rust suppression between detached leaves in the culture dishes and direct spray on seedlings (Peng et al., 2020).\r\nThe spore germination inhibition of Puccinia triticina with different combination of fungicides in laboratory conditions was investigated by Khunt et al. (2019). The relative efficacies of eight different fungicides combination were tested at different concentrations viz., 200, 500 and 1000 ppm. The data indicated that the maximum mean reduction of uredospore germination (84.48%) was found in the treatment of pyraclostrobin 13.3% + epoxyconazole 5% WP followed by tebuconazole 50% + trifloxystrobin 25% WG with 76.34 per cent inhibition. The other fungicide viz., cymoxanil 8% + mancozeb 64% WP (71.90%) was found moderately effective.\r\n','-','Shipra Sharma, Rashmi D. and S. I. Patel (2023). In vitro efficacy of fungicides on Uredospore Germination Inhibition of Puccinia graminis tritici. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 15(5): 372-376.'),(6628,'157','Deciphering the Genetic Variability in Mangalore Melon Genotypes (Cucucmis melo var. acidulus) for Growth, Flowering and Yield Traits','Sowmya H.M., Satish D., Ratnakar M. Shet, Amarananjundeshwara H., Raghavendra G. and Mahesh Y.S.','Deciphering-the-Genetic-Variability-in-Mangalore-Melon-Genotypes-(Cucucmis-melo-var.-acidulus)-for-Growth,-Flowering-and-Yield-Traits-Sowmya-HM-54.pdf','',1,'Mangalore melon is gaining much importance because of its earliness, high production potential with nutritive value and it is the most unique cucurbitaceous vegetable with respect to its keeping quality (8-10 months). Unfortunately, very little work has been done to maintain the genetic purity and development of superior hybrids in Mangalore melon. However, attempts have been made to collect and improve the local cultivars grown in different parts of India for many traits. Seventeen Mangalore melon genotypes (Cucumis melo var. acidulous) were evaluated to estimate the genetic variability for growth, flowering and yield parameters. Results revealed that significant genetic variability present among the genotypes for almost all traits. High estimates of GCV and PCV values were observed for number of fruits per vine, fruit width, fruit length, average fruit weight, fruit yield/vine, mesocarp thickness, seed cavity length and seed cavity width. High estimates of heritability coupled with high values of GAM were observed for the characters viz., Vine length, no. of primary branches, node at first male flower appears, days to first female flower appears, number of female flowers, sex ratio, number of fruits per vine, fruit width, fruit length, average fruit weight, fruit yield/vine, mesocarp thickness, seed cavity length, seed cavity width and test weight, it indicates less environmental influence, broader genetic base and also it depicts presence of additive gene action. MS 78 and MS 34 were found to be high yielding genotypes with the yield of about 9.29 and 5.30 kg/vine respectively. ','Mangalore melon, genetic variability, heritability, genetic advance','India has been reported to be rich in melon genetic resources, as Mangalore melon is morphologically diverse, especially with regard to fruit traits because of cross pollination and monoecious nature. It can also show non-uniformity in fruit size, shape, color, quality and fruit yield. For attaining the uniformity in these traits, a good understanding of genetic stock of Mangalore melon and selection of superior genotypes is very important for any crop improvement programme that allows higher genetic gain. Collection of genotypes, evaluation and their maintenance could aid in genetic improvement of any crops, and for sustainable production. The results obtained from the study could be used to harness the improvement in genetic traits. The Analysis of variance revealed that there is variability present among the genotypes for all the characters under the study. The estimates of genetic parameters reveals that the characters namely number of fruits per vine, fruit width, fruit length, average fruit weight, fruit yield/vine, mesocarp thickness, seed cavity length and seed cavity width recorded high GCV and PCV. Whereas the traits like vine length, no. of primary branches, node at first male flower appears, days to first female flower appears, number of female flowers, sex ratio, number of fruits per vine, fruit width, fruit length, average fruit weight, fruit yield/vine, mesocarp thickness, seed cavity length, seed cavity width and test weight showed high heritability with high genetic advancement.MS 78, MS 34 and MS 17 were found to be high yielding genotypes with the yield of about 9.29, 5.30 and 5.19 kg/vine respectively.','-','Sowmya H.M., Satish D., Ratnakar M. Shet, Amarananjundeshwara H., Raghavendra G. and Mahesh Y.S. (2023). Deciphering the Genetic Variability in Mangalore Melon Genotypes (Cucucmis melo var. acidulus) for Growth, Flowering and Yield Traits. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 15(5): 377-381.'),(6629,'157','Principal Component and Cluster Analysis on Eating and Cooking Quality Parameters in Rice (Oryza sativa L.) Germplasm','Hari Prasanth P., Agalya Jasmin S., Ramchander Selvaraj, Dinesh Kumar P., Devasena N., Sharmili K. and Wilson D. ','Principal-Component-and-Cluster-Analysis-on-Eating-and-Cooking-Quality-Parameters-in-Rice-(Oryza-sativa-L.)-Germplasm-Hari-Prasanth-P-55.pdf','',1,'Eating and cooking quality traits in rice are complex traits such as grain size, shape, and texture of the cooked kernels parameters. These traits are influenced by various factors including genetic makeup, amylose content, gelatinization temperature, and processing techniques. Improving the grain quality parameters, especially the eating and cooking quality of rice has wide-ranging implications, including enhancing market competitiveness, increasing consumer satisfaction, and addressing nutritional needs. It also contributes to sustainable agriculture practices by optimizing resource utilization and reducing food waste. The present study was conducted to assess the divergence of fifty-five rice genotypes based on eight-grain quality traits. The results of principal component analysis (PCA) revealed that the four principal components (PC) accounted for approximately 82% of the total variability observed among the fifty-five rice genotypes. By employing Mahalanobis D2 analysis, all fifty-five genotypes were categorized into nine clusters. The largest inter-cluster distance was observed between Cluster VII and Cluster VIII (36.67), followed by Cluster V and Cluster IX (34.75), and Cluster V and Cluster VI (32.78), indicating the presence of significant genetic diversity among the genotypes. The genotypes belonging to Cluster VII to Cluster VIII, Cluster V and Cluster IX, and Cluster V and Cluster VI can be considered for hybridization purposes, as they exhibit higher mean values for quality traits and greater inter-cluster distance, indicating increased diversity.','Quality traits, Principal Component, Cluster and Genotypes','In this study, fifty-five rice genotypes were analysed for their cooking quality traits and were grouped into nine clusters based on their percent contribution to the traits. GT and AC were found to be the major contributors to genetic diversity. High inter-cluster distances between some clusters indicated higher genetic diversity and potential for future breeding programs. Cluster VIII was found to be the best-performing cluster, and three genotypes (KRG49, KRG55, and KRG56) were identified as promising candidates for improving amylose content. Varieties with intermediate amylose contents are typically favored in Indian circumstances because they appear dry and fluffy and maintain their soft feel even after cooling. In conclusion, these findings have practical implications for rice breeding programs aimed at developing high-quality rice varieties.','-','Hari Prasanth P., Agalya Jasmin S., Ramchander Selvaraj, Dinesh Kumar P., Devasena N., Sharmili K. and Wilson D. (2023). Principal Component and Cluster Analysis on Eating and Cooking Quality Parameters in Rice (Oryza sativa L.) Germplasm. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 15(5): 382-388.'),(6630,'157','Bioactive Compound from Mollugo nudicaulis Lam. Promotes Wound Healing Activity: An In Silico and In Vitro Analysis','Siva Shankar Raj and Mani Panagal','Bioactive-Compound-from-Mollugo-nudicaulis-Lam.-Promotes-Wound-Healing-Activity-An-In-Silico-and-In-Vitro-Analysis5093-Mani-Panagal-56.pdf','',1,'Cells are replaced with functional ones during wound healing. Medicinal plants and their active compounds have been used for thousands of years to treat wounds. It has been proven that Chinese and Indian traditional medicines are effective in wound healing. There are many phytocompounds in Mollugo nudicaulis Lam. (M. nudicaulis) and their extracts are possessing antiviral, antibacterial, antiprotozoal, hypoglycemic, anticancer, and wound-healing activities. Therefore, the present study aims to identify and isolate a bioactive compound with wound healing properties. As a first step, ethanolic extract of M. nudicaulis was subjected to chromatographic and spectroscopic analyses in order to determine the bioactive compound. The wound healing activity of isolated compound with targeted proteins (such as PKC βII, TNF-α, IL-1β, PDGFRA, VEGF-A and TGFBR1) was investigated using computational molecular analysis. Furthermore, normal fibroblast cell lines were used to assess cytotoxicity. Based on the results of the TLC, FT-IR, 13C and 1H NMR analyses, the isolated compound was identified as 12-(10-carboxydecanoyloxy)-12-oxododecanoic acid (cmd-1). Cmd-1 binding affinity for wound healing target proteins is comparable to that of nitrofurazone (a drug approved by FDA), and docking scores range from -4.0 to -6.9 kcal/mol. Neither isolated compound nor standard drug displayed undesirable ADME properties. It has been shown that cmd-1 is not cytotoxic to NHDF and HUVEC cells, even at high concentrations of 200 µg/mL. Accordingly, ethanolic extract of M. nudicaulis provides a bioactive compound that may function as a novel wound healing agent and, potentially, lead to the development of novel therapeutic agents. However, in vitro and in vivo experiments will be necessary to confirm the current findings.','Mollugo nudicaulis Lam., 12-(10-carboxydecanoyloxy)-12-oxododecanoic acid, Molecular docking, Wound healing','Using chromatographic and spectroscopic methods, ethanolic extract of M. nudicaulis was used to isolate and identify bioactive compound of 12-(10-carboxydecanoyloxy)-12-oxododecanoic acid (cmd-1). In vitro cytotoxicity tests of cmd-1 on NHDF and HUVEC fibroblast cell lines did not show cytotoxicity at highest concentrations of 200 µg/mL. In a computational docking study associated with cmd-1, it was noted that it had good interaction with the wound healing targets of TNFα, TGFBR1 kinase, IL-1β, PKC-βII, VEGF and PDGF with docking scores ranging from -4.0 to -6.9 Kcal/mol. The ADME properties of those compounds were acceptable. In vitro and in silico results indicate that 12-(10-carboxydecanoyloxy)-12-oxododecanoic acid isolated from ethanolic extract of M. nudicaulis may have wound healing properties. Further research on in vitro and in vivo experimental animal models is required before the current funding can be confirmed.','-','Siva Shankar Raj and Mani Panagal (2023). Bioactive Compound from Mollugo nudicaulis Lam. Promotes Wound Healing Activity: An In Silico and In Vitro Analysis. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 15(5): 389-398.'),(6631,'157','Assessment of Mungbean [Vigna radiata (L.) Wilczek] Genotypes for Genetic Divergence and Yellow Mosaic Disease (YMD) Resistance','Sachin, Ravika, Rajesh Yadav, Amit and Navreet Kaur Rai','Assessment-of-Mungbean-[Vigna-radiata-(L.)-Wilczek]-Genotypes-for-Genetic-Divergence-and-Yellow-Mosaic-Disease-(YMD)-Resistance-Sachin-Ravika-57.pdf','',1,'The experimental material consisting of 106 genotypes were evaluated for 14 yield and its attributing traits during Kharif 2021 to ascertain genetic divergence, path coefficients and the MYMV disease resistance. The maximum positive direct effect on seed yield per plant was observed by the biological yield per plant followed by harvest index, days to flowering, plant height and number of branches per plant. Number of clusters per plant and number of seeds per pod apart from their direct effect on seed yield exhibited a positive indirect effect via days to maturity, biological yield, harvest index and 100-seed weight. Therefore, these traits should be given higher priority in direct selection for high-yielding mungbean genotypes. No association between MYMV and yield attributing traits was observed. The hierarchical cluster analysis classified mungbean genotypes into ten discrete clusters indicating the presence of substantial genetic diversity in the evaluated genotypes. The most diverse genotypic pairs were Pusa Vishal and EC 393407 followed by VGG-2 & IPM 205-7, ML 1628 & EC 393407, IPM 409-4 & VGG-2, SML 1018 & VGG-2. These genotypes were found to have heterogenic origin and can results into most diverse heterotic combinations among all the genotypes studied. After the field screening of 106 genotypes using the infector row technique against MYMV 23 genotypes were found to be highly resistant, 42 resistant, 33 moderately susceptible, six susceptible and two were found highly susceptible. Based on yield and other morphological traits studied, the genotypes ML 1628, ML 2037, SML 1023, MH 521, MH 560, MH 565, IPM 312-394, IPM 410-3 and EC 581523 were found superior and exhibited sufficient diversity and can be utilized for future mungbean improvement programs.','Genetic diversity, MYMV, Mungbean','From the findings of the present investigation, it could be concluded that the one hundred and six mungbean genotypes differed significantly for all yield and its attributing traits. Based on yield and its attributing traits along with MYMV screening, the genotypes viz., ML 1628, ML 2037, SML 1023, MH 521, MH 560, MH 565, IPM 312-394, IPM 410-3 and EC 581523 showed sufficient genetic diversity, contrasting traits and maximum resistance against MYMV among all the genotypes and these can be used in mungbean breeding programs for further improvement and resistance donor.','-','Sachin, Ravika, Rajesh Yadav, Amit and Navreet Kaur Rai (2023). Assessment of Mungbean [Vigna radiata (L.) Wilczek] Genotypes for Genetic Divergence and Yellow Mosaic Disease (YMD) Resistance. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 15(5): 399-405.'),(6632,'157','Seasonal Abundance of Melon Fruit Fly (Zeugodacus cucurbitae) in different Cucurbit Fields of Nagaland','Huirem Diana Devi, Pankaj Neog, Arensungla Pongen, Martha Chakruno, K. Lalruatsangi and Rumki Heloise Sangma ','Seasonal-Abundance-of-Melon-Fruit-Fly-(Zeugodacus-cucurbitae)-in-different-Cucurbit-Fields-of-Nagaland-Pankaj-Neog-58.pdf','',1,'One of the major insect pests of vegetables that affects both the amount and quality of fruit output is the melon fruit fly. Seasonal abundance of Melon fruit fly (Zeugodacus cucurbitae) was observed on Cucumber, Pumpkin and Ash gourd during the summer season of 2020 and 2021 in different isolated experimental fields of School of Agricultural Sciences and Rural Development (SASRD), Nagaland University, Medziphema Campus, Nagaland. Furthermore, investigation was done to find out the correlation between meteorological variables and fruit fly abundance. During the year 2020, the highest incidence of melon fruit fly was recorded on 31st May from all cucurbit fields with a mean population 2.30 numbers per trap from cucumber and pumpkin, while 2.65 numbers per trap from ash gourd. However, during the year 2021, the highest incidence was on 6th June in cucumber (1.85 numbers per trap), while in pumpkin and ash gourd on 30th May with a mean population of 2.15 and 2.50 numbers per trap, respectively. The correlation of melon fruit fly populations with abiotic factors was found to have non-significant in both the years. However, in the year 2021 their populations were found to have a positive significant correlation with morning relative humidity (r= 0.631). The lack of a substantial relationship between fruit fly population and the majority of abiotic parameters in the current study might be due to some other factors like availability of tender fruits with soft skin. In the present investigation during the last week of May upto middle of June, the population of fruit flies species was observed highest in different cucurbits and during that period maximum number of tender fruits with soft skin was available in the fields. Therefore, the population might be increasing with the increase of tender fruits in the field during that period. ','Seasonal abundance, Abiotic factors, Zeugodacus cucurbitae, Cucurbits','Z. cucurbitae had a high initial population that began on cucumber in the first week of May, moved on to pumpkin and ash gourd, and then gradually increased until it peaked in the last week of May on certain cucurbit agro-ecosystems. While rainfall had a negative impact on the population of melon fruit flies, morning relative humidity had a favourable impact. Therefore, it can be established that increased insect activity is caused by high relative humidity and the presence of more delicate fruits in the fields. Therefore, when the fruits are at their most sensitive, Z. cucurbitae can attack cucurbitaceous plants. Therefore, growers must maintain vigilance, and appropriate management plans for this fly species must be developed.','-','Huirem Diana Devi, Pankaj Neog, Arensungla Pongen, Martha Chakruno, K. Lalruatsangi and Rumki Heloise Sangma (2023). Seasonal Abundance of Melon Fruit Fly (Zeugodacus cucurbitae) in different Cucurbit Fields of Nagaland. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 15(5): 406-411.'),(6633,'157','Role of Nutritional Status in the Prevalence of Osteoporosis among Postmenopausal Women','Umera Baba and Sumera','Role-of-Nutritional-Status-in-the-Prevalence-of-Osteoporosis-among-Postmenopausal-Women-Umera-Baba-59.pdf','',1,'Osteoporosis is a chronic bone disorder characterised by the loss of bone density and modification in bone structure. These changes increase bone fragility and risk of fracture particularly among postmenopausal women. Certain challenges were faced during this study, particularly while data collection in opd of the government hospital. Owing to a lack of knowledge among respondents, it was a challenging task to gain the desired information from them. This study aims to investigate the possible relationship between nutrient intake and the risk of distress from osteoporosis in postmenopausal women who have recently been diagnosed with osteoporosis. A case-control study was intended to determine nutrient intake as well as lifestyle patterns. The study sample consisted of 380 postmenopausal women above the age of 45 years. Based on the diagnosis, the overall sample was divided into a study (osteoporotic) and a control group (non-osteoporotic). Thus, the study group comprised 260 respondents whereas the control group comprised 120 respondents. The results reveal that physical activity has a significant impact (p<0.001) on osteoporosis among post-menopausal women. In terms of BMI, an increase in body weight may be related to post-menopausal osteoporosis although differences were insignificant. The intake of protein and calcium in post-menopausal osteoporotic women was more deficient than RDA for this group. ','BMI, RDA, osteoporosis, post-menopausal','Based on the present study findings from postmenopausal osteoporotic women of the Kashmir region and subsequent analysis it can be inferred that postmenopausal osteoporosis remains a disease mainly of women in the 45-55 years age group. Contributing factors like low physical activity, early menopause and use of certain medications for conditions of cardiac ailments, diabetes and gastric acidity plays an important role in the development of postmenopausal osteoporosis. It can therefore be concluded that not just attention by medical doctors is simply going to help such women but a comprehensive approach taking a holistic view of the health problem with support from other areas like nutritionists, social scientists, psychologists and educationists will go a long way in alienating the disease and its impact.','-','Umera Baba and Sumera (2023). Role of Nutritional Status in the Prevalence of Osteoporosis among Postmenopausal Women. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 15(5): 412-417.'),(6634,'153','Common Fixed Point Theorems for Two Pair of Weakly Compatible Mappings in Modified Intuitionistic Fuzzy Metric Space','Bharti Mishra, Arun Kumar Garg and Z.K. Ansari','Common Fixed Point Theorems for Two Pair of Weakly Compatible Mappings in Modified Intuitionistic Fuzzy Metric Space-Arun Kumar Garg-6.pdf','',1,'In present paper, we introduce common property (E.A) in modified intuitionistic fuzzy metric spaces andutilize the same to prove common fixed point theorems in modified intuitionistic fuzzy metric space besides discussing related results and illustrative examples. We are not aware of any paper dealing with same conditions modified intuitionistic fuzzy metric spaces','Property (E.A), Common property (E.A), Fuzzy metric space, modified intuitionistic fuzzy metric space. ','-','-','Bharti Mishra, Arun Kumar Garg and Z.K. Ansari (2023). Common Fixed Point Theorems for Two Pair of Weakly Compatible Mappings in Modified Intuitionistic Fuzzy Metric Space. International Journal on Emerging Technologies, 14(1): 30-35.'),(6635,'153','A Survey on Secure Trust based Routing in WSN','Hemavathi Patil and Vishwanath Tegampure','A Survey on Secure Trust based Routing in WSN-Hemavati Patil-7.pdf','',1,'Wireless sensor networks (WSNs) are always plagued by serious security issues. A number of trust-based routing methods have been developed, and they are the key to improving wireless network effectiveness. However, due to unreliable wireless communication networks, they remain have significant drawbacks like low energy reserves, vulnerability to physical capture, and insufficient security against numerous attacks. Because of the built-in vulnerability of WSN to assaults, security is a necessity in WSN and is incredibly difficult to provide. A WSN node that is involved must transport data to nearby nodes to avoid a disaster in the event of a node attack. Recently, trust mechanisms have increasingly been viewed as the best method for reducing security issues in WSN. The goal of this study is to examine several Security routing methods and techniques for wireless sensing connections that are already in use and rely on trust. The technique, trust metric, benefits, drawbacks, and complexity of the idea behind the current trust mechanism are all examined. The security resilience of different trust types towards attacks are also examined in the final stage.','WSN, Security, Routing, Energy, Malicious nodes, Trust Nodes','An efficient system for identifying unauthorized nodes and their behaviors in WSN is included in Trust Models. The neighboring nodes can utilize the trust knowledge to avoid the misbehaving node after it has been identified as such. The paper surveys the recent advancements in secure trust based routing in WSN. Various parameters have been considered for the trust based secure routing. The trust based mechanisms, comparisons, trust index calculations have been depicted in this paper. \r\nThe paper can be extended by considering the trust based routing for multimedia content as well. This paper describes the work for physical information or static content. In future, the security can also be given to large video, audio and image files.\r\n','-','Hemavathi Patil and Vishwanath Tegampure (2023). A Survey on Secure Trust based Routing in WSN. International Journal on Emerging Technologies, 14(1): 36–41.'),(6636,'157','Plant Oxylipins: an Emerging Advance to Study their Role in Plant Defence Against Diseases incited by Various Plant Pathogens','Shugufta Parveen, Wasim H. Raja, Sajad Un Nabi, Subaya Manzoor, Gazala Nazir, Fayaz A. Mohiddin and Mahendra K. Verma\r\n','Plant-Oxylipins-an-Emerging-Advance-to-Study-their-Role-in-Plant-Defence-Against-Diseases-incited-by-Various-Plant-Pathogens-Sajad-Un-Nabi-60.pdf','',1,'To meet the needs of the world\'s population, which is constantly expanding, food security is a significant concern. Crop loss due to diseases is a major concern to overcome this global food security challenge. Plants can develop local or systemic immunity induced by pathogens or certain chemical products known as oxylipins. Plant Oxylipins (POs) are a group of extremely complex and diverse compounds that are produced as a result of oxidation of lipids. Unsaturated fatty acids might first be oxidized by enzymatic or chemical processes. A wide range of alternate processes further convert hydroperoxy fatty acids into a huge number of different oxylipin classes. The presence of oxylipins in complex lipids as esters or as free fatty acid derivatives broadens their structural diversity even more. All biological systems experience lipid peroxidation, which manifests in processes that are controlled during development and in reaction to environmental changes. The oxylipins that are produced may play a variety of biological roles. The POs, such as reactive oxygen species and electrophile species, stimulate defence related gene expression based on their chemical composition. Plants\' growth, development, and responses to their environment are all regulated by the oxylipin jasmonate (JA), particularly their defense mechanisms against necrotrophic plant pathogens. The oxylipins that are produced can have a variety of biological purposes, some of which involve signalling. Comprehensive analytical tests are available to determine the oxylipin profiles of plant tissues in order to clarify the functions of oxylipins in a specific biological system. Overall phytooxylipins has a great potential to be used as biocontrol agents, however more research should be done regarding the mechanisms underlying these multifaceted compounds. ','Plant oxylipins, Biosynthesis, Jasmonic acid, Plant Defence, Lipid peroxidation','Plant polyenoic fatty acids, whose traditional functions were limited to the modification of membrane structures and functions and to serve as energy storage forms, are now widely regarded as lipid bioregulators that mediate cell responses to extracellular signals after their release from membranes and oxidative transformation into oxylipins. These oxygenated fatty acids, which are mostly derived from linole(n)ic acids, have important roles in plant defence systems, particularly as components of defence barriers (like cutin), as toxins (antifungal and antibacterial compounds), or as signal transduction mediators (e.g. jasmonates). Interactions between plants and pathogens set off a complicated chain of events that involve specific receptors, signaling pathways, changes in extracellular pH and membrane potentials, activation of several phosphorylase and kinase cascades, and eventually result in various defence responses. During plant-pathogen interactions, lipid metabolic pathways and plant lipids are critical, and several modifications in membrane lipids are known to take place at the infection site. In addition, lipids and their by-products are released from membranes and serve as signal molecules to activate plant defense responses. Oxylipin biosynthesis is extremely dynamic, occurring both naturally and in response to various stresses. Therefore, much more research is required to comprehend the diversity of oxylipins originating from plants, their unique functions in physiological processes, and the mechanisms of oxylipins\' early signaling. It is worthwhile to investigate the potential of these metabolites as biotic stress defence agents as well as their function in enhancing plant tolerance and resistance mechanisms. In order to better understand how oxylipins operate during plant-pathogen interactions and in biotically stressful environments, focused metabolomics and lipidomics investigations are important.','-','Shugufta Parveen, Wasim H. Raja, Sajad Un Nabi, Subaya Manzoor, Gazala Nazir, Fayaz A. Mohiddin4 and Mahendra K. Verma (2023). Plant Oxylipins: an Emerging Advance to Study their Role in Plant Defence against Diseases incited by Various Plant Pathogens. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 15(5): 418-429.'),(6637,'157','Screening of Marigold Germplasm against Leaf Spot and Flower Blight Disease under Field conditions in North Western Himalayas','Vakul Sood, A.K. Singh, Diksha Sinha and Sonali Parwan','Screening-of-Marigold-Germplasm-against-Leaf-Spot-and-Flower-Blight-Disease-under-Field-conditions-in-North-Western-Himalayas-Vakul-Sood-61.pdf','',1,'Leaf spot and flower blight disease in marigold caused by Alternaria sp. is the most destructive disease, causing losses in all the marigold growing areas of India. Planting resistant and moderately disease resistant cultivars is one of the most sustainable disease management strategies to alleviate economic losses. Field screening of marigold germplasm was taken up in 2017 & 2018. The leaf spot severity as well as flower blight incidence was found to be the highest in cv. Pusa Narangi (78.03 per cent and 66.66 per cent respectively) and the lowest in cultivar Marigold Red (16.07 per cent and 9.50 per cent respectively). Among the eight genotypes, cv. Marigold Red was found moderately resistant; Jaffery Lal was moderately susceptible; Kesariya was susceptible and five genotypes viz., Pusa Narangi, Pusa Bahar, Pusa Basanti, Jaffery Orange, Jaffery Yellow were found to be highly susceptible.','Alternaria sp., flower blight, germplasm screening, leaf spot','Eight marigold cultivars were screened under field conditions against leaf spot and flower blight disease, and it was found that no cultivar was resistant to the disease. Pusa Narangi, Pusa Bahar, Pusa Basanti, Jaffery yellow and Jaffery Orange were found highly susceptible, Kesariya was susceptible and Jaferry Lal was moderately susceptible whereas Marigold Red was moderately resistant. ','-','Vakul Sood, A.K. Singh, Diksha Sinha and Sonali Parwan (2023). Screening of Marigold Germplasm Against Leaf Spot and Flower Blight Disease under Field conditions in North Western Himalayas. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 15(5): 430-432.'),(6638,'157','Study the Effectiveness of Health Education Intervention in Improving Male Involvement in Maternal Health Care','Manasi V. Shelgaonkar, K.V. Somasundaram and Manmohan Sharma','Study-the-Effectiveness-of-Health-Education-Intervention-in-Improving-Male-Involvement-in-Maternal-Health-Care-Manasi-Shelgaonkar-62.pdf','',1,'Dissemination of the knowledge about maternal health care among husbands and a positive gender attitude can lead to the optimization of healthcare service utilization and help in reducing the delay in deciding to seek care from skilled healthcare professionals. To Study the effectiveness of health education intervention in improving male involvement in maternal health care. A Prospective Longitudinal Case-Control Study was conducted in the Gynaecology OPD of a tertiary care hospital in a rural setting of district Ahmednagar, Maharashtra. The sample size was determined using Epi Info software, resulting in 199 participants for both the intervention and control groups. Probability sampling method - simple random sampling was used to select the participants for the study. The study subjects included were the husbands of the primigravida and multigravida pregnant females in the third trimester. Data collection was done using predesigned, validated, and standardized questionnaire. The mean difference between the knowledge level of pre-test and post-test intervention of antenatal care is 10 for multigravida and 8.93 for primigravida. There is a significant improvement in the knowledge of maternal health care. The effect size of the intervention was calculated by Cohen’s d which is 0.5. Husbands who have some knowledge of maternal health were more likely to use maternal health care services. It is crucial to have a policy for Male Involvement in Maternal Health Care and make the husband\'s presence obligatory during maternal and child health care. Health education intervention contributed in the improvement of pre-existing knowledge of men about maternal health care and created interest among them to further participate in MNCH. The major challenge faced during the study was that many female patients were being accompanied by female relative and not husbands which created a great difficulty in finding the study samples. Many husbands of multigravida were busy taking care of their infants and hence could not participate in the study. ','Maternal Health Care, Male Involvement, Educational intervention Package, Primigravida,\r\nMultigravida\r\n','Knowledge retention at the post-intervention assessment has shown a remarkable difference. This indicates that the intervention had an impact on improving men\'s core knowledge on various aspects of maternal health care. Involving men in maternal and child health care will have a huge impact on reducing maternal, infant, and child mortality and morbidity.','-','Manasi V. Shelgaonkar, K.V. Somasundaram and Manmohan Sharma (2023). Study the Effectiveness of Health Education Intervention in Improving Male Involvement in Maternal Health Care. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 15(5): 433-440.'),(6639,'157','Heterosis Analysis for Growth and Yield Attributes in Sponge Gourd [Luffa cylindrica (Roem) L.]','Priyanka Khairiya, J.P. Singh and Dhirendra Singh','Heterosis-Analysis-for-Growth-and-Yield-Attributes-in-Sponge-Gourd-[Luffa-cylindrica-(Roem)-L.]-Priyanka-Khairiya-63.pdf','',1,'Half-diallel crosses (excluding reciprocals) were used to evaluate heterosis to increase growth, yield, and quality by identifying unique cross-combinations with desirable heterosis in sponge gourd. Forty-five hybrids and ten parents with one check variety were evaluated from July 2021 to June 2022 in a randomized block design with three replications. The growth and yield characteristics of sponge gourd hybrids showed heterotic vigour. Genetic variability was seen for all characters because of significant differences. Heterosis breeding is an important method adopted in many crops for their improvement all over the world. The magnitude of standard heterosis was found in desirable direction for early and yield traits viz., days to germination appearance in the cross Pant Torai-1 × Kashi Kalyani (-25%), Local Material-1 × Kashi Shreya (-25%), RCSG-2 × Kashi Shreya (-25%) and Kashi Kalyani × Pusa Chikni (-25%), days to flowering in the cross Kashi Shreya × Kashi Kalyani (-24.58%), sex ratio in the cross Pant Torai-1 × Swarna Prabha (-51.78%), for vine length in the cross Kashi Shreya × Pusa Chikni (136.55%), for number of branches in Swarna Prabha × Pusa Chikni (26.84%), for fruit length in the cross Pusa Sneha × Pusa Chikni (44.43%), for number of fruits per vine in Pusa Sneha × Local Material-2 (80.04%), for fruit weight in the cross Local Material-1 × Swarna Prabha (51.64%) and for yield in the cross Pusa Sneha × Local Material-2 (162.13%). The three best-performing F1 hybrids, viz., the cross Pusa Sneha × Local Material-2 (162.13%), followed by RCSG-2× Local Material-2 (106.56%), and RCSG-2 × Kashi Kalyani (104.96%), exhibited the highest standard heterosis for total yield (q/hac) in order of merit. Hence, these hybrids can be further tested under different agro-climate for commercial production. ','Sponge Gourd, Luffa cylindrica, Heterosis, Sex ratio, Half-diallal, Fruit yield','The higher degree of heterosis variability is typically indicated by the wider range of heterosis. The majority of the characteristics (Table 2-6) had either a high or moderate range of heterosis. Relative heterosis besides epistatic effect also indicates presence of dominance effects (intra allelic interaction), while heterobeltiosis is indicative of over dominance. In such situation economic heterosis or mean performance of a cross is more reliable criteria for identifying a commercially valuable cross. The crosses between Pusa Sneha and Local Material-2, RCSG-2 × Local Material-2 that exhibit high heterosis for yield as well as high heterosis for various yield-contributing characters are more suitable because they have stronger heterotic capability when compared to other ones during the hybridization process. To increase the quantity, quality, and earliness of sponge gourds per unit area, further research may be conducted on these crosses before they are suggested for commercial production.','-','Priyanka Khairiya, J.P. Singh and Dhirendra Singh (2023). Heterosis Analysis for Growth and Yield Attributes in Sponge Gourd [Luffa cylindrica (Roem) L.]. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 15(5): 441-449.'),(6640,'157','Isolation and Screening of Amylolytic Yeast from various Natural Sources','A. Veena and B.S. Anuradha','Isolation-and-Screening-of-Amylolytic-Yeast-from-various-Natural-Sources-A-Veena-64.pdf','',1,'The objective of this research is to get the isolates of yeast which have the potential to produce amylase. Amylase enzymes are the examples of the types of enzymes that play an important role in biotechnology and industry. Amylase (E.C.3.2.1.1) are the enzyme that works as catalyst in the hydrolysis of starch into simple monomers. Amylase enzymes are widely used in various industrial fields such as textile, food, paper and other industries. Compared to other organisms, yeasts can produce enzymes more effectively and safer for the environment. Amylolytic yeast can be isolated from flower substrates as it contains sugar for the very limited condition of yeast growth.\r\nAmylase is one of most important group of enzymes. Amylolytic yeast strains were isolated from different natural sources. These are of ubiquitous occurrence and hold the maximum marked share of enzyme sales. Which hydrolyze the starch it is observed by the zone of inhibition by the adding of iodine. Starch converts to product as maltose and glucose molecules. Amylase having yeasts were isolated on the YEPD agar media. These isolated colonies were centrifuged at 8000 rpm for 15min by adding methanol as a substrate. The crud was extracted and all isolates were screened on YEPS (Yeast extract Peptone Starch) media, for the amylase activity crude extract possess zone of inhibition by the lysis of starch. The maximum amylase activity having isolate was subjected to 18s rRNA gene sequencing.\r\n','Amylase enzyme, amylolytic Yeast, Starch, YEPD media and YEPS media','In conclusion total 6 yeast strains were isolated from the different sources like toddy, wine, apple, soil, custard apple and potato. Isolated yeast strains were screened based on clear zone of inhibition by the starch hydrolysis. Based on amylolytic activity among 6 yeasts one was selected and subjected to 18s rRNA gene sequencing the selected isolate can be characterized further for various useful industrial purposes.','-','A. Veena and B.S. Anuradha (2023). Isolation and Screening of Amylolytic Yeast from various Natural Sources. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 15(5): 450-454.'),(6641,'157','Standardization of Bio-pigment Extraction Techniques from Yellow Flowering Landscape Ornamentals','Dipayan Sarkar, Arpita Mandal Khan, Soumen Maitra and Prodyut Kumar Paul ','Standardization-of-Bio-pigment-Extraction-Techniques-from-Yellow-Flowering-Landscape-Ornamentals-Arpita-Mandal-Khan-65.pdf','',1,'Bio-pigments obtained from landscape ornamentals plant sources has the potential to be an eco-friendly, non-toxic and cost effective substitute in food and textile industries and can subsequently create entrepreneurship opportunities in rural and urban areas and can reduce the use of synthetic colours and their hazards. Flowering trees and shrubs which are used in landscaping, blooms profusely at certain seasons; however, except for aesthetic gratification the flowers are not utilized in any commercial purpose and referred to as waste material. The present study hypothecates that bio-pigments extracted from the waste flowers can add commercial value to the plants and can convert the flower waste to wealth. Three common yellow flowering landscape plants namely, Cassis fistula, Peltophorum pterocarpum and Cassia alata were selected for extraction of pigment through six different methods and colour, their stability under varying temperature and pH were evaluated. The results of this experiment showed that the eighteen resultant pigments varied significantly with respect to their colour values (ΔE* L*a*b*), anthocyanin and carotenoid contents and colour stability at acidic, alkaline or high temperature condition. The maximum anthocyanin and carotenoid content was observed in Cassia alata with soaking and maceration in acidic solution(58.94mg/l) and Peltophorum pterocarpum with soaking and maceration in acidic solution (33.76 μg/g) respectively.','Anthocyanin, carotenoid, ΔE* L*a*b*, pigment','The colour of a pigment is dictated by the co-pigmentation of anthocyanins and flavonols which vary with species, methods of extraction, pH and temperature. These landscape ornamental species can be effectively exploited for extracting pigments of different colours and shades by manipulating the methods of extraction. The flowers especially, Cassia alata and Peltophorum pterocarpum was noted to be rich source of anthocyanin and carotenoids. The pigments also showed good stability under wide range of pH and temperature, hence further study on their applicability on food, textile and cosmetics can lead to commercialization of these pigments.','-','Dipayan Sarkar, Arpita Mandal Khan, Soumen Maitra and Prodyut Kumar Paul (2023). Standardization of Bio-pigment Extraction Techniques from Yellow Flowering Landscape Ornamentals. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 15(5): 455-461.'),(6642,'157','A Review of the Pharmacological, Biological, Chemical and Therapeutic Value of Elaeocarpus ganitrus Roxb. (Rudraksha)','Subhashish Tripathy, Amit Mishra and Arun Kumar Mishra','A-Review-of-the-Pharmacological,-Biological,-Chemical-and-Therapeutic-Value-of-Elaeocarpus-ganitrus-Roxb.--(Rudraksha)-Tripathy-S-66.pdf','',1,'Elaeocarpus ganitrus plants are traditionally found in north Asian countries whose seeds (Rudraksha) are commonly used in various conventional systems of medicine for their great medicinal property. From ancient times it has been used for multiple diseases like stress, anxiety, Insomnia, improving immunity, tension, mental sicknesses, and blood pressure. As per the Ayurvedic medication system, wearing Rudraksha positively affects the heart and nerves. This review on Rudraksha endeavours to bring together the Pharmacological, Biological, chemical and therapeutic value of Elaeocarpus ganitrus Roxb. (Rudraksha). The inclusive and comprehensive literature on Rudraksha is prepared using different online resources, such as Google Scholar, PubMed, Science Direct, and further dependable online databases. Significant appropriate evidence from the articles analyzed and included. Rudraksha regulates our bioelectrical energy, positively impacting our body. It can be used for various common traditional medicinal diseases from mental sickness. With time, Rudraksha cures Insomnia, stress, anxiety, and similar disorders, and further scientific experiment is necessary to unleash their actual medicinal effect. This work aims to review the literature and get insight into the difficulties that new researchers and students have when studying the Elaeocarpus ganitrus plant. By addressing the existing problem of therapeutic usage of Rudraksha, research has contributed to a better world. ','Rudraksha, Elaeocarpus ganitrus Roxb, stress, anxiety, Insomnia','These observations obtained by various literature surveys are limited and cannot be extrapolated to know Rudraksha\'s medicinal significance in modern times. Rudraksha\'s therapeutic effect is due to its impact on humans\' bioelectricity. However, these findings also need to study with a different up-to-date new scientific methodology for further clarification. From an extensive literature survey, we can conclude that Rudraksha seeds have some bioelectricity-generating properties, which can be used for various medicinal healing properties. This Review highlights the potential usefulness of Elaeocarpus ganitrus and suggests the future Scope of the Plant.','-','Subhashish Tripathy, Amit Mishra and Arun Kumar Mishra (2023). A Review of the Pharmacological, Biological, Chemical and Therapeutic Value of Elaeocarpus ganitrus Roxb. (Rudraksha). Biological Forum – An International Journal, 15(5): 462-472.'),(6643,'157','Pyrethroid Ramifications in the Haematological Status, Tissue Protein and Lipid Content of Anabus testudineus','Wanaz Nasreen Islam','Pyrethroid-Ramifications--in-the-Haematological--Status,-Tissue-Protein--and-Lipid-Content-of--Anabus-testudineus-Wanaz-Nasreen-Islam-67.pdf','',1,'Pyrethroids are popular insecticides used in agricultural fields and households for pest control. They are gaining their popularity because they are fast acting and required in very low doses. Cypermethrine is one such modern pyrethroid pesticide, which is a potent source of water pollution. Fishes are very vulnerable to a wide variety of such toxicants in water and the poisonous effects of pesticides on fishes can be easily established. Being lipophilic, it is easily absorbed by the fish gills and reaches the circulation where it affects the biologically active molecules, viz., carbohydrates, proteins, and lipids. Studies on the impact of two sub-lethal concentrations (0.12ug/l and 0.24ug/l) of Cypermethrin on the total tissue protein and lipid content of muscle and liver as well as certain hematological parameters of a labyrinth fish, Anabus testudines were evaluated. By summarizing the results using Analysis of Variance (ANOVA), it has been observed that the exposure decreased the total protein and lipid content significantly (p<0.05). Protein depletion was more in muscles than in the liver. In the case of hematology, RBC count and Hgb % decreased but contrastingly WBC count increased in both the pesticide-treated groups with increased time of exposure. Hence the study concludes that cypermethrine is highly pernicious to fish\'s physiological and biochemical conditions, even at low doses, although it is thought to be less harmful to birds and mammals directly. The most challenging part of the study was to unveil the fact that although cypermethrine is photodegradable and thought to be less toxic, but since it is seriously deleterious to fishes, it can be life-threatening to all the other carnivores that are connected to fishes in the food chain through biomagnifications. The present investigation contributes to a better understanding of the repercussions brought to animal society through the use of such hazardous synthetic pesticides.','Biomolecules, Cypermethrine, Erythrocyte, Fish, Lymphocyte, Toxicity','Thus, the current investigation concludes that cypermethrine exposure has a strong potential to alter the hematology and biochemical constituents in various tissues of Anabus testudines. Proteins and lipids being vital biochemical constituents for growth and development are directly affected by subsequent exposure to cypermethrine. The toxicant caused hematological disturbance which could lead to impairment of the fish\'s ability to combat diseases, reducing its chances for survival and potential for growth and reproduction. These effects of Cypermethrine even at low doses are severe. It can be attributed to the excessive demands under toxic stress. Since fishes are a part of the food chain of many higher animals, further study to demonstrate the possible effect on higher animals including humans is required. In addition, more research on microbial degradation of pesticide need further attention. An in depth knowledge and understanding of the environmental and the ecological potential impacts of pyrethroid pesticides in soil is required (Braganca et al., 2016).','-','Wanaz Nasreen Islam (2023). Pyrethroid Ramifications in the Haematological Status, Tissue Protein and Lipid Content of Anabus testudineus. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 15(5): 473-480.'),(6644,'157','Formulation, Evaluation, Development, Characterization, and In Vitro Evaluation of Sulfasalazine hydrogel for the treatment of Oral Lichen Planus','Shoaib A. Shaikh, Sharav A. Desai, Ravi S. Khandare and Bhagwat H. Garje','Formulation,-Evaluation,-Development,-Characterization,-and-In-Vitro-Evaluation-of-Sulfasalazine-hydrogel-for-the-treatment-of-Oral-Lichen-Planus-Sharav-A-Desai-68.pdf','',1,'Sulfasalazine topical hydrogel is a type of s medicine applied directly to the skin to reduce inflammation, irritation, and pain. Topical Sulfatase hydrogel is useful against the use of corticosteroids. Sulfasalazine, an anti-inflammatory drug, has limited solubility in both aqueous and organic solvents. Achieving its effective dispersion within the hydrogel matrix poses a significant challenge. To overcome this hydrogel was prepared by using modifying polymers, Carbopol 934 P. Physicochemical properties of the drug were evaluated by ultraviolet, Fourier transforms infrared spectroscopy (FTIR), and solubility study. Hydrogel appearance clarity, pH, viscosity, extrudability, rangeability, drug content, surface pH, in vitro drug release, Ex vivo permeability, stability study histopathology study, and release of kinetics model. The FTIR studies showed no evidence of interactions between drugs, polymers, and excipients. Formulation F4 achieves an in vitro drug release of 81.67% ± 0.28 at 2 h and fine evaluation results. We successfully developed hydrogel formulations of Sulfasalazine and describe an effective result for the treatment of OLP for resistance to corticosteroid therapy.','Sulfasalazine, Hydrogel, Ulcer, Fibroblast, In-Vitro ulcer','Thus stable, effective gels containing Sulfasalazine along with ingredients for the management of mouth ulcers can be developed. In conclusion, this study strongly suggests the simplicity and practicality of the new gel. The use of this novel gel might provide shielding from the olp conditions, as reflected in promoting the speed of healing, enhancing epithelialization, and minimizing the use of corticosteroids.','-','Shoaib A. Shaikh, Sharav A. Desai, Ravi S. Khandare and Bhagwat H. Garje (2023). Formulation, evaluation, development, characterization, and In Vitro Evaluation of Sulfasalazine hydrogel for the treatment of Oral Lichen Planus. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 15(5): 481-491.'),(6645,'158','New records of microfungi from Sanjay Gandhi\r\nNational Park (SGNP), Maharashtra, India,','Rashmi Dubey and Amit Diwakar Pandey','1_JNBR_12_1_2023.pdf','',1,'The paper deals with an account of 3 species of microfungi which are reported as new records to India viz.,\r\nAngustimassarina populi Thambug. & K.D. Hyde 2015; Natantiella ligneola (Berk. & Broome) Reblova 2009;\r\nRhytidhysteron thailandicum Thambug. & K.D. Hyde 2016.','Microfungi, New Records, Sanjay Gandhi National Park (SGNP), Maharashtra, India','-','-','-'),(6646,'158','Hygrophila auriculata (Acanthaceae): A new addition for Flora of Andaman & Nicobar Islands, India','C. S. Purohit, Vivek C.P., Bishnu Charan Dey and Lal Ji Singh','2_JNBR_12_1_2023.pdf','',1,'A new distributional record of Hygrophila auriculata (Schumach.) Heine (Acanthaceae), from the Andaman\r\nIslands is described based on the collection from Kulsy areas of Middle Andaman Island. Its nomenclature,\r\ndescription, images and other relevant details have been provided.','Hygrophila auriculata, Acanthaceae, addition, Andaman and Nicobar Islands.','-','-','Purohit CS, Vivek C.P, Dey BC, Singh LJ. 2023. Hygrophila auriculata (Acanthaceae): A new addition for Flora of Andaman & Nicobar Islands, India. J New Biol Rep 12 (1): 5 – 8.'),(6647,'158','Saprobic Litter Fungi: New Additions to Indian\r\nMycobiota','Rashmi Dubey* and Amit Diwakar Pandey','3_JNBR_12_1_2023.pdf','',1,'In this contribution, 04 species of litter microfungi associated with plant debris are registered for the first time to\r\nthe Indian mycobiota viz., Acanthostigma perpusillum De Not. 1865; Angustimassarina italica Tibproμma,\r\nCamporesi & K.D. Hyde 2017; Hermatomyces sphaericoides Koukol & G. Delgado 2018;\r\nParadictyoarthrinium hydei N.G. Liu & J.K. Liu, 2018. For the 04 species recorded in the present study,\r\ndescriptions, illustrations and information about their substrates and geographical distribution are provided. Reference material was deposited in the Herbarium of the Botanical Survey of India, WRC, Pune.','Microfungi, New Records, Sanjay Gandhi National Park (SGNP), Maharashtra, India','-','-','Dubey R and Pandey AD. 2023. Saprobic Litter Fungi: New Additions to Indian Mycobiota. J New\r\nBiol Rep 12 (1): 9 – 13.'),(6648,'157','Interventional Approach for Awareness Creation Among Rural Women','Kumari Shipra, Sanghamitra Mohapatra, Manju Mahananda and Aarti Singh','Interventional-Approach-for-Awareness-Creation-Among-Rural-Women-Kumari-Shipra-69.pdf','',1,'The condition of women in any society is the true indicator of its socio-economic, cultural, religious, and spiritual level. The status of women in a society is directly linked with its economic position and the level of participation in economic life which, on its own depends on rights, roles, and opportunities for participation in economic activities, Women comprise nearly fifty percent of the total population. If we neglect this force, then we are utilizing only fifty percent of the workforce. Women form an essential factor in the development of any community. We as a society cannot think to build and shape the fortunes of any country without recognizing and appreciating the role and status of women. Rural women play a key role in supporting their families, and communities and spend extra time than urban women on family work, such as time spent for attaining food, nutrition security, obtaining water and fuel, caring for children and the sick, and processing food. and culturally assigned roles that seriously restrict women`s participation in employment opportunities, producing. This study identifies challenges related to sociocultural barriers, economic disparities, rural-urban divide, awareness gaps, and gender bias. Societal expectations restrict women\'s employment and empowerment, while economic disparities limit their access to resources. In rural areas, women face a lack of awareness about rights and opportunities that hinders progress. The research paper emphasizes the significance of rural women\'s condition in society as a true indicator of its socioeconomic, cultural, religious, and spiritual level. It highlights that the status of rural women is directly linked to their economic position and their level of participation in economic activities. ','Awareness, Human rights awareness, Rural area women','In conclusion, this study focused on assessing the impact of an intervention package on human rights awareness among rural women. The findings demonstrate the effectiveness of the intervention in improving awareness levels and empowering rural women in the Samastipur district of Bihar. From the analytical point of view, there is a need to promote and create human rights awareness among rural women as the result of the present study showed that the majority of the respondent’s awareness of human rights was observed to be ‘low’ and ‘below average’ before the intervention, but after the introduction of the intervention package. The result showed that there is a significant difference of 35.19 percent increase in the mean between before and after the intervention of rural women in the human rights awareness test. Hence, the role of the intervention package developed by experts was a major factor that affected and increased their awareness of human rights. Thus, concludes that people in even rural areas where the majority (47.14 percent) just qualified till matric and 57.14 percent with monthly income less than 10000 Rs (i.e. low), could be aware of human rights through the help of experts and effective intervention package. These findings highlight the importance of implementing interventions aimed at creating awareness and empowering rural women. By enhancing their understanding of human rights, rural women can actively participate in society, challenge discrimination, and advocate for their rights. An increase in ‘Human Rights Awareness’ decreases domestic violence in rural areas, therefore there is a strong need to develop their human rights awareness level through various interventional packages. Overall, this research contributes to the understanding of intervention approaches for awareness creation among rural women and provides valuable insights for future initiatives. It emphasizes the importance of empowering rural women, ensuring their rights and dignity, and fostering an inclusive and equitable society for all.','-','Kumari Shipra, Sanghamitra Mohapatra, Manju Mahananda and Aarti Singh (2023). Interventional Approach for Awareness Creation Among Rural Women. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 15(5): 492-497.'),(6650,'157','A Study of Biological Attributes and Morphometry of Trichogramma japonicum Ashmead','Bikash Mohapatra and C.U. Shinde','A-Study-of-Biological-Attributes-and-Morphometry-of-Trichogramma-japonicum-Ashmead-CU-Shinde-70.pdf','',1,'Trichogramma species constitute one of the most commonly used bio agent of natural enemies for biological control programs worldwide. Trichogramma sp. are very difficult to identify because of their tiny size and uniform morphological characters. The present investigation aims to study several aspects of the biological attributes and morphological character of T. japonicum. The present study pointed out that the total developmental period of T. japonicum on C. cephalonica was 8.56 ± 0.22 days. Adult emergence was 96.67 ± 3.32 percent with a sex ratio of 1: 2.82 (Male: female). The female parasitic wasp lived longer (4.90 ± 1.12 days) as compared to the male (2.63 ± 1.10 days). Moreover, the total life cycle of female T. japonicum was 13.46 ± 1.21 days while the male has 11.19 ± 1.11 days. In addition, Dimorphism existed in T. japonicum. The overall body size as well as the wing span of the female was larger as compared to the male wasp while the antenna of the male (0.21 ± 0.01 mm) was noted far longer than that of the female parasitoid (0.13 ± 0.01 mm). The female had a long distinctive ovipositor of 0.22 ± 0.02 mm in length.','Trichogramma, Corcyra, emergence, biological attributes, morphometry','From the above experiment, it can be concluded that the parasitoid had a few good attributes viz., short developmental period, high adult emergence, comparatively longer adult longevity as well a high percentage of female progeny which ensures its suitability for integration in integrated pest management programme. Furthermore, the morphological description, as well as morphometrical measurements of various body parts presented herewith, would be helpful in the identification of T. japonicum from other species of Trichogramma and also to differentiate the opposite sex of T. japonicum.','-','Bikash Mohapatra and C.U. Shinde (2023). A Study of Biological Attributes and Morphometry of Trichogramma japonicum Ashmead. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 15(5): 498-506.'),(6651,'157','Optimization of Spacing and Effect of Organic and Inorganic Phosphorus Level for Growth and Yield of Irrigated Blackgram','Kousalya Arumugam, Sharmili K., Balaganesh B., Udhaya Kumar K., \r\nGobikashri N. and Jennifer Flora G.','Optimization-of-Spacing-and-Effect-of-Organic-and-Inorganic-Phosphorus-Level-for-Growth-and-Yield-of-Irrigated-Blackgram-K-Sharmili-71.pdf','',1,'Pulses are second important sources of human food next to cereals and also important crop to meet the dietary part of vegetarian. The productivity of pulses in India is below the global average mainly due to improper fertilization and crop spacing. In order to improve the productivity of blackgram a field experiment was conducted to study the effects of spacing and different levels of organic and inorganic phosphorus during Rabi season of 2022-23 at Karunya Institute of Technology and Sciences, Coimbatore. The experiment was laid out in Randomized Block Design which was replicated thrice and having 10 treatments consisting of 5 different spacing viz., 20 × 20 cm2, 25 x 25 cm2, 30 x 30 cm2, 35 x 35 cm2 and 30 x 10 cm2 and 2 level of phosphorus viz., 100% RDP through inorganic (DAP) and 50% RDP through inorganic (DAP) + 50% RDP through organic (Vermicompost). According to the findings, the application of 100% RDP through inorganic + 20cm × 20 cm resulted in the higher growth and yield attributes. Grain yield (964 kg/ha), and stover yield (2554 kg/ha) were also found to be higher in 100% RDP through inorganic + 20cm × 20 cm resulting in higher gross return (62660 Rs/ha ), net return (41858 Rs /ha ) and B: C ratio (2.01).','DAP, Vermicompost, RDP, Blackgram, Yield','From the investigation it can be recommended that growing of blackgram with a spacing of 20cm × 20cm along with the application of 100% recommended dose of phosphorus (T1) improves crop growth, yield and income. ','-','Kousalya Arumugam, Sharmili K., Balaganesh B., Udhaya Kumar K., Gobikashri N. and Jennifer Flora G. (2023). Optimization of Spacing and Effect of Organic and Inorganic Phosphorus Level for Growth and Yield of Irrigated Blackgram. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 15(5): 507-511.'),(6652,'157','Efficacy of different Fungicides against Erysiphe cichoracearum DeCandolle causing Powdery Mildew of Okra (Abelmoschus esculentus (L.)','Chattannavar S.N., B. Swathi, Shridevi T. and Vinayaka Bannur','Efficacy-of-different-Fungicides-against-Erysiphe-cichoracearum-DeCandolle-causing-Powdery-Mildew-of-Okra-(Abelmoschus-esculentus-(L.)-Swathi-B-72.pdf','',1,'Okra is one of the important vegetable grown across the country. It is severely infected by Powdery mildew caused by Erysiphe cichoracearum D.C causing yield loss varied from 17.0 to 86.6 per cent). Management of powdery mildew is becoming cumbersome due to development of fungicidal resistance to pathogen with this view, field experiment was conducted to test potentiality of new fungicide molecules against powdery mildew diseases, the fungicides tested were found to be superior over control but among the different fungicides tested, Flupyram 17.7% + Tebuconozole 17.7 % SC (Luna experience) at 0.125 per cent concentration and was found to be significantly effective by recording minimum disease intensity (48.52%) with maximum disease control (38.80%) coupled with higher Okra yield (92.15q/ha). While, spraying wettable Sulphur 80% WP (0.375%) was found to be least effective in reducing disease with 69.17% disease intensity. Hence the Flupyram 17.7% + Tebuconozole 17.7 % SC (Luna experience) at 0.125 per cent concentration can be used for the effective control of powdery mildew in okra.','Fungicides, Okra, powdery mildew, Erysiphe cichoracearum, Luna experience','It is noteworthy that, from present investigation for the management of powdery mildew disease in Okra exhibited that all the evaluated fungicides have shown a promising efficacy as compared to the control against the disease. However, out of the treatments, the Flupyram 17.7% + Tebuconozole 17.7 % SC (Luna experience) at 0.125 per cent concentration shown better controlling potential against the disease with (38.80 %). with Okra yield of 92.15 q/ha. Therefore, Flupyram 17.7% + Tebuconozole 17.7 % SC (Luna experience) at 0.125 per cent concentration is recommended for management of powdery mildew disease of Okra.','-','Chattannavar S.N., B. Swathi, Shridevi T. and Vinayaka Bannur (2023). Efficacy of different Fungicides against Erysiphe cichoracearum DeCandolle causing Powdery Mildew of Okra (Abelmoschus esculentus (L.). Biological Forum – An International Journal, 15(5): 512-516.'),(6653,'157','Association Analysis for Biochemical and Physiological Characters in Strawberry (Fragaria ananassa Duch.) Coated with Silver Nitrate and Silver Nanoparticles','Vishal S., V. Gopi, B. Madhumitha, M. Anitha, Neethu Francis, P. Ranchana, P. Karthikeyan, V. Suresh and Dinesh Kumar','Association-Analysis-for-Biochemical-and-Physiological-Characters-in-Strawberry-(Fragaria-ananassa-Duch.)-Coated-with-Silver-Nitrate-and-Silver-Nanoparticles-V-Gopi-73.pdf','',1,'The challenges of post-harvest losses in fruit includes inadequate infrastructure and storage facilities, leading to spoilage and reduced shelf life, impacting both farmer’s livelihoods and food security. The aim of the study is to extend the shelf life of strawberry using silver nanoparticles (Ag-NPs). The experiment was carried out using four treatments (T1-1000 ppm silver nitrate for 5 minutes, T2- 2000 ppm silver nitrate for 5 minutes, T3- 30 ppm silver nanoparticles for 5 minutes, T4- 60 ppm silver nanoparticles for 5 minutes) with three replications. Traits used for analysis are Total Soluble Solids, Total Sugars, Reducing sugars, Non -reducing sugars, Titratable acidity, Vitamin C, Physical hydrogen, Fruit weight, Fruit firmness and physiological loss in weight. The readings were recorded on 3rd, 6th and 9th day of storage after treatment. Correlation analysis was conducted between the biochemical and physiological parameters. The experimental results found that high significant and positive correlation was observed between Vitamin ‘C’ and Physiological Loss Weight (0.406*). Fruit firmness showed positive and high significant association with total soluble sugars (0.382*), total sugars (0.501**) and reducing sugars (0.390*). Interestingly, fruit weight had a significant correlation with reducing sugars (0.422*) and firmness (0.648**). ','Biochemical, Physiological parameters, Silver nanoparticles, Silver nitrate, Strawberry, Vitamin C','In the present study strawberry fruits treated with silver nanoparticles showed positive correlation with Total sugars, Total soluble solids, Reducing sugars, Fruit firmness, Titratable acidity, Physiological Loss of Weight and vitamin ‘C’ on 9th day of storage. Therefore, it is concluded that coating with silver nanoparticle enhances the quality parameters with increase in shelf life of strawberry. ','-','Vishal S., V. Gopi, B. Madhumitha, M. Anitha, Neethu Francis, P. Ranchana, P. Karthikeyan, V. Suresh and Dinesh Kumar (2023). Association Analysis for Biochemical and Physiological Characters in Strawberry (Fragaria ananassa Duch.) Coated with Silver Nitrate and Silver Nanoparticles. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 15(5): 517-519.'),(6654,'157','An Education on the Previous Successful Attempts at Transdermal Delivery Patches','Bariki Rajasekhar and Haranath Chinthaginjala','An-Education-on-the-Previous-Successful-Attempts-at-Transdermal-Delivery-Patches-Bariki Rajasekhar-74.pdf','',1,'The objective of the study was to use a factorial design to gather data on prior attempts at transdermal medication delivery devices. Systems for transdermal drug delivery provide the medication for a protracted length of time (days). The authors conducted a thorough Internet search for relevant literature, consulted national and international peer-reviewed publications, and gathered and summarized data from earlier studies on transdermal patches using factorial analysis. The use of QbD is becoming more prevalent compared to conventional trial-and-error techniques. The medicine was released when the transdermal patches, which were of the matrix and membrane types, were externally attached to the skin. Because they decrease the frequency of treatment and improve patient compliance, the study finds that transdermal drug delivery systems are superior formulations for treating chronic illnesses.','Drug delivery, Literature, Patch, Permeation, Polymers, Transdermal','Transdermal technology (TDDS) was widely acknowledged as the creation of a mass delivery methodology, making it the preferred drug injection modality for transdermal delivery across skin types while avoiding first-pass metabolism and other sensitivities linked to various alternative drug administration routes. Drugs may be distributed uniformly at predetermined and controlled rates with TDDS since it is non-invasive, not allergenic, and has a predetermined duration and dose delivery technique. In the pharmaceutical industry, TDDS technology is expanding quickly and has been successful in seizing significant market value as a formulation technique that can enhance drug administration via topical channels.','-','Bariki Rajasekhar and Haranath Chinthaginjala (2023). An Education on the Previous Successful Attempts at Transdermal Delivery Patches. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 15(5): 520-524.'),(6655,'157','Scientific Study on Vrikshayurvedic Farming in Greengram','Dhivyalakshmi Thirumal, Sharmili K., Praveena Katharine S., Silambarasan M., Dinesh Kumar P., Kousalya A. and Gobikashri N. ','Scientific-Study-on-Vrikshayurvedic-Farming-in-Greengram--K-Sharmili-75.pdf','',1,'A field experiment was carried out at the southern farm of Karunya Institute of Technology and Science, Coimbatore during Rabi season 2022-2023 to study the utilization of leaves and leaf extract of trees for eco-friendly Vrkshayurvedic farming in greengram (Vigna radiate L). Vrikshayurvedic farming in pulses reduces the needs of harmful and unhealthy chemical fertilizers and pesticides, hence contributing to the sustainable agricultural farming. This experiment involved nine different treatments, each with varying combinations of GLM and tree leaf extracts. These different green leaf manures were used in this experiment (Albizia lebbek, Pongamia pinnata, and Delonix regia), applied at a rate of 2 t/ha as basal nutrition in the main plot. The tree leaf extracts of Moringa oleifera, Morinda tinctoria, and Annona squamosa, was applied at a rate of 5% as three foliar sprays at 20, 40 and 60 days after sowing (DAS) in the sub plot, there were significant differences in the growth and yield attributes of greengram due to the different treatments applied. The plot that received Pongamia pinnata as green leaf manure with foliar spraying of Moringa oleifera recorded higher yield of 952 kg/ha, and also all yield parameters were found to be high in this treatment. Economic analysis showed that this treatment combination also had the maximum net return of Rs. 39647 ha-1 and a benefit cost ratio of 1:2.25. ','Greengram Vrkshayurveda, green leaf manure, foliar spraying, growth, yield, economics','The results indicate that the use of organic inputs, such as Pongamia pinnata and foliar sprays of Moringa oleifera or Annona squamosa, not only improve the yield but also increases the profitability of greengram cultivation in irrigated condition.','-','Dhivyalakshmi Thirumal, Sharmili K., Praveena Katharine S., Silambarasan M., Dinesh Kumar P., Kousalya A. and Gobikashri N. (2023). Scientific Study on Vrikshayurvedic Farming in Greengram. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 15(5): 525-528.'),(6656,'157','Studies on Insect-pests Complex of Rapeseed Mustard and their Natural Species in Roorkee Region, Uttarakhand, India','Pradeep Kumar Verma, Avinash Varma and Gaurav Aggarwal','Studies-on-Insect-pests-Complex-of-Rapeseed-Mustard-and-their-Natural-Species-in-Roorkee-Region,-Uttarakhand,-India-Pradeep-Kumar-Verma-76.pdf','',1,'A field experiment was carried out to study the insect pests associated with rapeseed mustard in Roorkee region of Uttarakhand\'s Haridwar district during 2021 and 2022 rabi season. In this region, rapeseed mustard was linked to a pest complex of roughly eight different insects-pests species. The Mustard aphid, Lipaphis erysimi has been found consistently expand in population and causing economic damage to mustard crop. It occurred from flowering to till maturity stage of the crop, while mustard sawfly, Athalia lugens proxima and flea beetle, Phyllotreta cruciferae occurred during seedling stage and painted bug, Bagrada cruciferarum damaged the crop during seedling to maturity stage as a minor pest. At the vegetative stage, the cabbage aphid Brevicoryne brassicae, the cabbage butterfly Pieris brassicae, and the rose aphid Macrosiphum rosae were all seen in sporadic, low-population occurrences. Only the mustard aphid, a regular important pest/major pest, does the most harm to mustard crops out of the eight insect pests that were identified. The other seven pests were all categorised as minor. In the experimental crop, four natural enemies of several insect pests of rapeseed mustard were identified: dragonflies, ladybird beetles, green lacewings and braconid wasps. Insect pests complex cause major crop losses in agriculture worldwide. Therefore, to identify a key pest of a particular crop and their damaging stages on crop is crucial to effectively control the economic crop yield losses and also to reduce cost benefit ratio of insecticide applications and by also identifying their natural enemies we can reduce the application of chemical insecticides.','Pests, rapeseed-mustard, brassica species, natural enemies and pest complex','This study identified numerous insect species that are associated with rapeseed mustard, portending a potential threat to rapeseed mustard production. Rapeseed mustard also contains species of natural enemies, including as parasitoids and carnivores. It is known that every reported predator and parasitoid has a direct relationship to their prey population. It is suggested that important biological control agents can be exploited in the management of the major insect pests of rapeseed mustard.','-','Pradeep Kumar Verma, Avinash Varma and Gaurav Aggarwal (2023). Studies on Insect-pests Complex of Rapeseed Mustard and their Natural Species in Roorkee Region, Uttarakhand, India. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 15(5): 529-533.'),(6657,'157','Quantifying Genetic Variability and Heritability in Kabuli Chickpea \r\n(Cicer arietinum L.) for Crop Improvement\r\n','Surbhi Pachori and Anita Babbar','Quantifying-Genetic-Variability-and-Heritability-in-Kabuli-Chickpea--Surbhi-Pachori-77.pdf','',1,'Thirty-two genotypes, including three checks of kabuli chickpea (Cicer arietinum L.) were studied to assess their genetic variability, heritability, and genetic advance effects on seed yield. The results revealed high genotypic and phenotypic coefficients of variation for total number of pods per plant, effective number of pods per plant, total number of seeds per plant, seed yield per plant, and biological yield per plant. This indicates a significant potential for improvement in these traits through hybridization and subsequent selection. Additionally, traits such as number of pods per plant, number of effective pods per plant, total number of seeds per plant, seed yield per plant, biological yield per plant, number of seeds per pod, and stem height of first fruiting node showed high heritability estimates coupled with high genetic advance as a percentage of the mean. The findings indicate that these traits are predominantly influenced by additive gene action, making them suitable targets for reliable selection and subsequent improvement. Understanding the gene action and genetic mechanisms related to these traits can offer valuable insights for designing breeding strategies to enhance the potential yield. Consequently, these traits are regarded as favorable choices for selection and improvement in breeding programs.','Cicer arietinum L., genetic variability, heritability, kabuli','In conclusion, based on the assessment of genetic parameters including genotypic coefficient of variation, heritability, and genetic advance as a percentage of the mean, certain key traits have been identified for selection and improvement of yield in chickpea. These traits include total number of pods per plant, effective number of pods per plant, total number of seeds per plant, seed yield per plant, and biological yield per plant. High heritability and high genetic advance as a percentage of the mean were observed foras number of pods per plant, number of effective pods per plant, total number of seeds per plant, seed yield per plant, biological yield per plant, number of seeds per pod, and stem height of first fruiting node, indicating that these traits are primarily influenced by additive gene action. Therefore, selecting and improving these traits through genetic improvement efforts would effectively increase chickpea seed yield.','-','Surbhi Pachori and Anita Babbar (2023). Quantifying Genetic Variability and Heritability in Kabuli Chickpea (Cicer arietinum L.) for Crop Improvement. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 15(5): 534-539.'),(6658,'157','Study on Impact of different Levels of Indole-3-Butyric Acid (IBA), Rooting Media, and Correlation on Rooting and Survivability of Air Layered Water Apple (Syzygium samarangense L.)','Giriprasath R.S., Umesh Chimmalagi, Vinay T.V., Gopi V., Patricia Kalaiarasi J., Manjula B.S., Jeevitha D. and Suresh V.','Study-on-Impact-of-different-Levels-of-Indole-3-Butyric-Acid-(IBA),-Rooting-Media,-and-Correlation-on-Rooting-and-Survivability-of-Air-Layered-Water-Apple-(Syzygium-samarangense-L.)-Umesh-Chimmalagi-78.pdf','',1,'Water apple is one of the important fruit crops, but it remains uncultivated in many parts of the world due to less success in seed propagation and unavailability of quality planting material. Hence this study was undertaken to determine the impact of IBA, rooting media, and association between the different parameters on success of air layering in water apple at North Farm, Karunya Institute of Technology and Sciences, Coimbatore (2022–23), with 12 treatments replicated thrice. The experiment was set up using a FRCBD with four distinct concentrations of IBA, viz., 1000 (I1), 2000 (I2), 3000 (I3), and 4000 ppm (I4), and three rooting media i.e. cocopeat (M1), sphagnum moss (M2), and garden soil (M3). According to the analysis of variance, all treatments were found significant for all parameters. Among the treatment interactions, 4000 ppm IBA with sphagnum moss was earliest for the commencement of roots, time taken for layers to separate, root length, diameter and number of roots. Sphagnum moss was found superior for early rooting and root number. According to the results, using IBA and media together will be more effective at encouraging early rooting and getting more number of roots than using either IBA or media alone.','Water apple, Air layering, Root initiation, IBA, Sphagnum moss, Interaction, Correlation','From the above investigation it can be concluded that the rooting and vegetative growth of air layers were all improved by the exogenous application of IBA with rooting media, particularly IBA at 4000 ppm. Sphagnum moss was the most effective rooting media for fastening the rooting in air layers. The treatment combination of 4000 ppm IBA and sphagnum moss was resulted in the best root initiation (100%) of water apple air layers. With this, we can determine the optimum dose and combination (4000 ppm IBA with sphagnum moss) for air layering in water apple to produce high-quality planting materials. ','-','Giriprasath R.S., Umesh Chimmalagi, Vinay T.V., Gopi V., Patricia Kalaiarasi J., Manjula B.S., Jeevitha D. and Suresh V. (2023). Study on Impact of different Levels of Indole-3-Butyric Acid (IBA), Rooting Media, and Correlation on Rooting and Survivability of Air Layered Water Apple (Syzygium samarangense L.). Biological Forum – An International Journal, 15(5): 540-547.'),(6659,'157','Major Insect Pests of Mung bean and their Control by Synthetic Insecticides','Anand Kumar Prajapat, Lekhu Gehlot and Champa Lal Verma','Major-Insect-Pests-of-Mung-bean-and-their-Control-by-Synthetic-Insecticides-Anand-Kumar-Prajapat-79.pdf','',1,'Mung bean (Vigna radiata) is India\'s third most important pulse crop after chickpea and red gram. Several insect pests infested to mung bean crop and cause quality and quantity losses. The field experiment was carried out for the control of major insect pests on mung bean during Kharif season in 2019. The mung bean seeds were grown in three plot sizes of 5 m × 3m with 50 cm row to row and 20 cm plant to plant spacing. Randomly selected 10 plants from weekly intervals to record the population of insect pests before and after the spray of synthetic insecticides. The treatment of emamectin benzoate also found most effective against the population of whitefly and caused a maximum of 96.36% reduction while, the treatment of thiamethoxam was caused a maximum of 90.90% reduction. The treatment of emamectin benzoate 5 SG caused a maximum 93.02 percent reduction while, the treatment of thiamethoxam 25 WG caused a maximum 83.72 percent reduction in the population of jassids during the Kharif season 2019.Among both tested synthetic insecticides emamectin benzoate was found most effective against the population of jassids and white flyover untreated control.','Mung bean, Whitefly, Bemisia tabaci, jassid, Ampoasca motti, synthetics pesticides','The major insect pests were found whitefly and jassid in the present study. The treatment of emamectin benzoate was found most effective against the population of both whitefly and jassid while thiamethoxam was found less effective as compared to emamectin benzoate against the population of both insects. ','-','Anand Kumar Prajapat, Lekhu Gehlot and Champa Lal Verma (2023). Major Insect Pests of Mungbean and their Control by Synthetic Insecticides. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 15(5): 548-553.'),(6660,'35','Various Simulators of Vehicular Ad-hoc Networks: A Review','Gurpreet Singh','7 Gurpreet Singh.pdf','',4,'-','-','-','-','-'),(6661,'35','Various Simulators of Vehicular Ad-hoc Networks: A Review','Gurpreet Singh','7 Gurpreet Singh.pdf','',1,'-','-','-','-','-'),(6662,'157','Productivity and Profitability of Rainfed Relay Linseed as Influenced by Residual Effects of Organic Nutrient Management in Aromatic Rice Varieties','Anjan K. Sarmah, J.K. Choudhary, J. Deka, K. Pathak, K.N. Das and P. Kalita','Productivity-and-Profitability-of-Rainfed-Relay-Linseed-as-Influenced-by-Residual-Effects-of-Organic-Nutrient-Management-in-Aromatic-Rice-Varieties-Anjan-K-Sarmah-81.pdf','',4,'A field experiment was carried out at organic block of Instructional-cum-Research Farm of Assam Agricultural University, Jorhat, Assam, India during rabi (November -March) season of 2019 and 2020 to study the residual effects of organic nutrient management in aromatic rice varieties on relay sown linseed in rainfed condition. Most of the rice fallow areas in Assam, India are kept fallow due to lack of suitable crops adapted to moisture deficit condition after the harvest of the long duration kharif rice crop. The study was carried out to study the performance of linseed as a relay crop after the long duration kharif rice under residual fertility and moisture condition. The experiment was laid out in factorial randomized block design (RBD) and replicated thrice. The experiment consisted of three aromatic rice varieties and five organic nutrient management practices applied in the rice crop. The linseed crop received no external input and grown with residual fertility and moisture. Among the organic nutrient management practices, application of vermicompost @ 30 kg N ha-1 with in situ green manuring with Sesbania aculeata and seedling root dip treatment with Azospirillium and phosphorus solubilizing bacteria (PSB) @ 3.5 kg ha-1 each in preceding aromatic rice varieties produced significantly higher values of plant population, plant height at harvest, number of branches plant-1, root and shoot dry weight, capsule plant-1, seeds plant-1, seed yield ( 394.52 kg ha-1 and 416.97 kg ha-1), stover yield (890.09 kg ha-1 and 896.63 kg ha-1) and oil yield (135.16 kg ha-1 and 144.56 kg ha-1) uptake of N, P and K and profitability of linseed during both the years. The residual effects of aromatic rice varieties on linseed were not found significant. The study revealed that linseed could be a good choice as a relay crop in rice based cropping system in rainfed organic ecosystem. ','Aromatic rice, Productivity, profitability, organic nutrient management, relay linseed, residual effect','It may be concluded that application of 30 kg N ha-1 through vermicompost along with green manuring with Sesbania aculeata and seedling root dip treatment of rice with Azospirillum and PSB @ 3.5 kg ha-1 each (N3) in preceding rice was found to be most effective with regard to residual effect on growth, yield, nutrient uptake and profitability of succeeding relayed linseed in aromatic rice-linseed sequence in rainfed condition. Linseed could be a promising relay crop in rice based cropping systems under organic management in medium land rainfed situation in Assam, India. The study may be further be conducted in low land rice fallow areas to investigate the potential of linseed in lowland situation. ','-','Anjan K. Sarmah, J.K. Choudhary, J. Deka, K. Pathak, K.N. Das and P. Kalita (2023). Productivity and Profitability of Rainfed Relay Linseed as Influenced by Residual Effects of Organic Nutrient Management in Aromatic Rice Varieties. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 15(5): 558-562.'),(6663,'157','Correlation Studies in Inter-botanical Cross of Melon Kashi Madhu (Cucumis melo var. chandalak) × IC632170 (Cucumis melo var. momordica)','Rashmi K., Shivapriya M., Vishnuvardhana, Ravishankar K.V., Suresh G.J., Jayashree Ugalat and Jyothi Kattegoudar ','Correlation-Studies-in-Inter-botanical-Cross-of-Melon-Kashi-Madhu-(Cucumis-melo-var.-chandalak)-×-IC632170-(Cucumis-melo-var.-momordica)-Rashmi-K-80.pdf','',1,'The evaluation of melon (Cucumis melo L.) genotypes was carried out under polyhouse conditions at farmer’s field in Pavagada taluk, Tumkur District during summer 2021 following Augumented block design. The objective of the experiment was to determine the yield components which can be used for genetic improvement of yield hence correlation study was undertaken among F2 population in inter-botanical cross of Kashi Madhu × IC632170 (Snapmelon). The correlation study revealed that yield per plant had a highly significant and positive correlation with ovary length, fruit length, fruit width, flesh thickness, seed cavity and average fruit weight. The correlation study has uncovered the relationship between the yield and yield attributing traits mainly viz., fruit width, flesh thickness and average fruit weight. The results indicated that selection for higher yield through these traits would be effective.','Cucumis melo L., Kashi Madhu, Snapmelon, F2 population, Correlation and Yield','The correlation study at phenotypic level in F2 population exhibited significant and positive association of yield per plant with fruit length, fruit width, flesh thickness, seed cavity and average fruit weight. Hence selection of anyone of these traits enhances the performance of yield per plant.','-','Rashmi K., Shivapriya M., Vishnuvardhana, Ravishankar K.V., Suresh G.J., Jayashree Ugalat and Jyothi Kattegoudar (2023). Correlation Studies in Inter-botanical Cross of Melon Kashi Madhu (Cucumis melo var. chandalak) × IC632170 (Cucumis melo var. momordica). Biological Forum – An International Journal, 15(5): 554-557.'),(6664,'157','Productivity and Profitability of Rainfed Relay Linseed as Influenced by Residual Effects of Organic Nutrient Management in Aromatic Rice Varieties','Anjan K. Sarmah, J.K. Choudhary, J. Deka, K. Pathak, K.N. Das and P. Kalita','Productivity-and-Profitability-of-Rainfed-Relay-Linseed-as-Influenced-by-Residual-Effects-of-Organic-Nutrient-Management-in-Aromatic-Rice-Varieties-Anjan-K-Sarmah-81.pdf','',1,'A field experiment was carried out at organic block of Instructional-cum-Research Farm of Assam Agricultural University, Jorhat, Assam, India during rabi (November -March) season of 2019 and 2020 to study the residual effects of organic nutrient management in aromatic rice varieties on relay sown linseed in rainfed condition. Most of the rice fallow areas in Assam, India are kept fallow due to lack of suitable crops adapted to moisture deficit condition after the harvest of the long duration kharif rice crop. The study was carried out to study the performance of linseed as a relay crop after the long duration kharif rice under residual fertility and moisture condition. The experiment was laid out in factorial randomized block design (RBD) and replicated thrice. The experiment consisted of three aromatic rice varieties and five organic nutrient management practices applied in the rice crop. The linseed crop received no external input and grown with residual fertility and moisture. Among the organic nutrient management practices, application of vermicompost @ 30 kg N ha-1 with in situ green manuring with Sesbania aculeata and seedling root dip treatment with Azospirillium and phosphorus solubilizing bacteria (PSB) @ 3.5 kg ha-1 each in preceding aromatic rice varieties produced significantly higher values of plant population, plant height at harvest, number of branches plant-1, root and shoot dry weight, capsule plant-1, seeds plant-1, seed yield ( 394.52 kg ha-1 and 416.97 kg ha-1), stover yield (890.09 kg ha-1 and 896.63 kg ha-1) and oil yield (135.16 kg ha-1 and 144.56 kg ha-1) uptake of N, P and K and profitability of linseed during both the years. The residual effects of aromatic rice varieties on linseed were not found significant. The study revealed that linseed could be a good choice as a relay crop in rice based cropping system in rainfed organic ecosystem. ','Aromatic rice, Productivity, profitability, organic nutrient management, relay linseed, residual effect','It may be concluded that application of 30 kg N ha-1 through vermicompost along with green manuring with Sesbania aculeata and seedling root dip treatment of rice with Azospirillum and PSB @ 3.5 kg ha-1 each (N3) in preceding rice was found to be most effective with regard to residual effect on growth, yield, nutrient uptake and profitability of succeeding relayed linseed in aromatic rice-linseed sequence in rainfed condition. Linseed could be a promising relay crop in rice based cropping systems under organic management in medium land rainfed situation in Assam, India. The study may be further be conducted in low land rice fallow areas to investigate the potential of linseed in lowland situation. ','-','Anjan K. Sarmah, J.K. Choudhary, J. Deka, K. Pathak, K.N. Das and P. Kalita (2023). Productivity and Profitability of Rainfed Relay Linseed as Influenced by Residual Effects of Organic Nutrient Management in Aromatic Rice Varieties. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 15(5): 558-562.'),(6665,'157','Effect of Silver Nitrate and Silver Nanoparticles on Shelf Life and Quality of Table Grapes var. Muscat Hamburg','Nishanth A.C., V. Suresh, A. Asha Monicka, B. Madhumitha, B. Vidhya, \r\nV. Gopi and Umesh Chimmalagi\r\n','Effect-of-Silver-Nitrate-and-Silver-Nanoparticles-on-Shelf-Life-and-Quality-of-Table-Grapes-var.-Muscat-Hamburg-V-Suresh-82.pdf','',1,'The post-harvest losses in fruits include the susceptibility to fungal infections, rotting, spoilage, leading to significant economic losses for farmers and reduced availability of high-quality fruits in the market. Hereby, a study on effect of silver nitrate and silver nanoparticles on shelf life of grapes var. Muscat Hamburg was conducted at School of agricultural sciences, Karunya Institute of Technology and Sciences, Coimbatore during 2023. The experiment was laid out in CRD with nine treatments. The results showed that highest shelf life (14.7 days), weight loss (21.95 per cent), total soluble solids (19.1 per cent), titratable acidity (0.48 per cent) and ascorbic acid (77.26 mg/100g) were recorded by the treatment T7 (Ag-NPs @ 60 ppm for 3 min). Among the different treatments, the treatment T6 (Ag-NPs @ 30 ppm for 5 min) registered the lower total sugars (13.3 per cent) and the treatment T5 (Ag-NPs @ 30 ppm for 3 min) registered the minimum reducing sugars (9.67 per cent).','Grapes, Muscat hamburg, quality parameters, silver nanoparticles, shelf life','The present study indicate that the highest shelf life of 14.7 days was observed in grapes var. Muscat Hamburg treats with Ag-NPs @ 60 ppm for 3 min (T7), this treatment also has an added advantage that it maintains the weight loss percentage, TSS, Acidity and vitamin C when stored under ambient condition. Therefore, Bunches treated with Ag-NPs @ 60 ppm for 3 min were effective in increase the shelf life and quality of grapes var. Muscat Hamburg.','-','Nishanth A.C., V. Suresh, A. Asha Monicka, B. Madhumitha, B. Vidhya, V. Gopi and Umesh Chimmalagi (2023). Effect of Silver Nitrate and Silver Nanoparticles on Shelf Life and Quality of Table Grapes var. Muscat Hamburg. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 15(5): 563-568.'),(6666,'157','Drug Related Issues in Cardio Vascular Patients: Implementation and Evaluation','Katike Mohammad Umar and C. Madhavi Latha','Drug-Related-Issues-in-Cardio-Vascular-Patients-Implementation-and-Evaluation-Katike-Mohammad-Umar-83.pdf','',1,'Drug-related problems have a significant impact on the quality of life, mortality, and morbidity of patients. These problems can occur at any stage of the drug administration process, including prescription, transcription, distribution, and administration. To improve patient safety and treatment outcomes, it is essential to investigate the prevalence, forms, patterns, and clinical significance of drug-related issues in patients with cardiovascular conditions. In a prospective interventional study conducted over eight months in the medical and cardiology wards of a tertiary care hospital, the most frequently reported drug-related problems (DRPs) among inpatients were drug interactions, followed by untreated indications, medications without indications, sub-therapeutic dosages, and overdose. Our findings highlight the critical role of clinical pharmacists in the early detection of DRPs and the associated risk factors to prevent, evaluate, and manage adverse effects of medication use in cardiovascular patients. The study also revealed that none of the patients who participated in the survey reported significant problems with their daily activities. The research identified a total of 138 clinical pharmacist interventions, of which 101 were approved, and 37 were refused. Of these interventions, 87 were resolved, while 51 remained unsolved. In conclusion, clinical pharmacy plays a crucial role in detecting DRPs and their associated risk factors in cardiovascular patients to prevent, evaluate, and manage unfavourable drug-related outcomes.','Adverse Drug Reaction, Clinical Pharmacist, Drug Related Problems, Drug Interaction','The study found that patients with cardiovascular diseases are at risk of multiple drug-related problems that can be addressed through clinical pharmacist interventions. The study analyzed the data of 264 inpatients admitted to the cardiovascular department of Government General Hospital, Kurnool, and identified a total of 1567 DRPs. Males were more affected than females. Myocardial infarction was the most commonly observed CVD, and a total of 3001 drugs were prescribed during the study period. The majority of patients stayed in the hospital for 6-10 days and were prescribed 6-10 drugs, including furosemide, metoprolol, aspirin, spironolactone, clopidogrel, atorvastatin, and telmisartan. The most common DRPs identified were drug interactions, with expected drug interactions due to cardiovascular drugs accounting for 82.7% of all interactions. Other DRPs identified were untreated indications, drug use without indication, subtherapeutic dose, and overdose. The study found that all patients had no major issues in their routine daily activities. The study proposed 138 clinical pharmacist interventions, of which 101 were accepted and 37 were rejected. Of these interventions, 87 problems were resolved, while the remaining 51 remained unresolved. The study highlights the crucial role of clinical pharmacists in identifying DRPs and their associated risk factors and in preventing, assessing, and managing undesired outcomes due to the use of drugs in cardiovascular patients.','-','Katike Mohammad Umar and C. Madhavi Latha (2023). Drug Related Issues in Cardio Vascular Patients: Implementation and Evaluation. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 15(5): 569-572.'),(6667,'157','Yield and Economics of Chia (Salvia hispanica L.) as influenced by different Methods of Establishment and Nutrient Management Practices in Southern Dry Zone of Karnataka','Manasa N., Ramachandra C., Kalyanamurthy K.N., Vighnesh and Shivakumar N.','Yield-and-Economics-of-Chia-(Salvia-hispanica-L.)-as-influenced-by-different-Methods-of-Establishment-and-Nutrient-Management-Practices-in-Southern-Dry-Zone-of-Karnataka-Manasa-N-84.pdf','',1,'Chia is a very important super food crop with lots of medicinal value getting more popularity in recent days because of its healthy omega-3 fatty acid content. The cultivation of Chia in India was started by very few farmers now a day’s demand for Chia has increased due to its nutrient content and encouraging farmers to cultivate the crop. In this regard’s suitable methods of establishment with adequate spacing and fertilizer management is considered as a base that leads to development of production technology which can influence the healthy seed yield and yield attributes which are most important components of systematic cultivation that could enhance productivity and profitability of crop. The field experiment was carried out at Zonal Agricultural Research Station, V.C. Farm, Mandya during kharif 2019 to evaluate the suitable methods of establishment and nutrient management practices on yield and economics of Chia (Salvia hispanica). The experiment comprised twelve treatment combinations laid out in split-plot design with three replications. The results of the study revealed that transplanting method of Chia cultivation resulted in significantly higher seed yield (1043.8 kg ha-1), gross income (Rs. 167016 ha-1), net returns (Rs. 128542 ha-1) and B:C ratio (4.34) and was on par with line sowing than broadcasting methods of establishment. Among nutrient management practices, application of 60:40:40 NPK kg ha-1 + FYM (8 t ha-1) resulted significantly higher seed yield (1120.3 kg ha-1), gross returns (Rs. 179250 ha-1), net returns (Rs. 136323 ha-1) and B: C ratio (4.18) followed by application of 40:20:20 NPK kg ha-1 + FYM (8 t ha-1), FYM (8 t ha-1) and found significantly superior over other treatments in the study. ','Chia, establishment, fertilizers, gross income and seed yield','Optimum seed yield with greater net returns and B:C ratio was recorded with transplanting method of establishment with application of 60:40:40 NPK kg ha-1 + FYM (8 t ha-1) and was found economical and sustainable compared to control plots. So, it can be recommended for transplanting method of cultivation with fertilizer dosage of 60:40:40 NPK kg ha-1 + FYM (8 t ha-1) for getting maximum yield coupled with superior quality seed and higher returns.','-','Manasa N., Ramachandra C., Kalyanamurthy K.N., Vighnesh and Shivakumar N. (2023). Yield and Economics of Chia (Salvia hispanica L.) as influenced by different Methods of Establishment and Nutrient Management Practices in Southern Dry Zone of Karnataka. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 15(5): 573-577.'),(6668,'157','An Assessment of Chromium (VI) induced Toxicity in Common Freshwater Fish Anabas testudineus (Bloch,1792)','Souvik Biswas, Pushmita Halder, Santanu Debnath, Pratyush Ghosh and Ashis Kumar Panigrahi','An-Assessment-of-Chromium-(VI)-induced-Toxicity-in-Common-Freshwater-Fish-Anabas-testudineus-(Bloch,1972)-Santanu-Debnath-85.pdf','',1,'Chromium, a heavy metal with potential toxicity, can be found in surface water and groundwater and may originate from both natural and anthropogenic sources. Industrial wastewater or effluents are the primary sources of the hazardous pollutant hexavalent chromium (Cr (VI)). This form of chromium pollution is a major environmental concern worldwide due to its persistence and extreme toxicity to living organisms. Chromium toxicity in fish can have a wide range of adverse effects, including physiological, and biochemical changes, and haematological alterations. Thus, this present study aims to assess the toxicity caused by potassium chromate and to observe different aspects of haematological, and behavioural alterations in common freshwater fish Anabas testudineus. Fish were subjected to increasing concentrations of potassium chromate ranging from 5-30 mg/L with different time exposure. The lethal and sub-lethal concentration of chromium (VI) was determined in A. testudineus through this study. This study revealed toxicity of chromium through altered morphology (losing of scale, shrinking of eyeballs, redness in eyes, etc.), and behavioural abnormalities (erratic swimming, hyperactivity, frequent surface visits, etc.). Moreover, notable haematological alterations, including changes in PCV, MCV, and MCHC, were observed. Based on these findings, it can be concluded that the heavy metal Chromium (VI) in the form of potassium chromate has adverse effects on A. testudineus.','Chromium, Potassium chromate, Anabas testudineus, Haematological, Behavioral changes','The present study is an ex-situ analysis which shows the toxic effect of Cr(VI). Cr(VI) is a toxic heavy metal which enters into the aquatic ecosystem via the effluents discharged from numerous industries. Fishes are highly susceptible to this heavy metal because this metal is assimilated through ingestion or gill uptake. Accumulation of this heavy metal in the hepatic and renal tissues impacts various organisms such as the gill, kidney, ovary and liver which inturn adversely affect its behaviour, biochemical activity, physiological activities and metabolic functions. This present study shows the adverse effect of potassium chromate in common freshwater fish Anabas testudineus and its exposure to the LC50 resulted in a significant alteration in haematology.','-','Souvik Biswas, Pushmita Halder, Santanu Debnath, Pratyush Ghosh, Ashis Kumar Panigrahi (2023). An Assessment of Chromium (VI) induced Toxicityin Common Freshwater Fish Anabas testudineus (Bloch,1792). Biological Forum – An International Journal, 15(5): 578-584.'),(6669,'157','Nanotechnology Enabled Advancements in Plant Breeding','Duluri Soumya, Delvadiya I.R., Murakonda Sai Dinesh and Ginoya A.V.','Nanotechnology-Enabled-Advancements-in-Plant-Breeding-Duluri-Sowmya-86.pdf','',1,'Nanotechnology consists of basic nanoparticles with small size to large surface area (1–100 nm) that have several potential functions. In a recent hybrid field known as nanobiotechnology, elements of both nanotechnology and biotechnology are combined, and it uses nanoparticles as basic tools for manipulation of plants and nanomaterials serve as carriers for genes and chemicals that activate gene expression and regulate genetic material inside plants, and there is a great deal of promise and depth to this technology\'s future advancement. Nanotechnology in plant breeding has potential but faces challenges. The long-term effects of nanoparticles on plants and the environment are unknown, requiring research for safety. Scalability and cost-effectiveness limit adoption, while ethical and regulatory concerns surround GMOs and gene introduction. Careful evaluation and regulation are needed for responsible and sustainable use. Through nanoparticles as a treatment, seeds can speed up germination, increases seedling strength, vigour and improve seed quality. The application of nanotechnology in plant breeding comprehends; disease and vermin control, seed technology, plant genetic modification, monitoring of plant growth stages, incitement of hormonal impacts, and precise farming. Nanotechnology also aids in the improvement of crop output in agriculture by reducing input losses and ensuring efficient nutrient and water management. Another breakthrough in nanotechnology for agricultural production improvement is the development of cultivars resistant to various insects through DNA transfer method in plants or nanoparticle-mediated gene transfer, respectively. Furthermore, this review examines several nanotechnological approaches in plant breeding and tissue culture, focusing on their current application and scanning the opportunities, potential benefits, and associated risks. ','Nanotechnology, Agriculture, Plant Breeding, Crop Improvement, Nanoparticles, Nano priming','The application of nanotechnology in plant breeding holds great promise and has the potential to dramatically improve crop growth, output, and quality. Nano-derived devices (nano-sensors, nanoparticles) are widely used in plant breeding and genetic transformation of crops to develop improved varieties through appropriate breeding programs However, there are still obstacles to overcome in terms of producing safe and effective nanotechnology-based products for agriculture. Despite these challenges, the potential benefits of nanotechnology in plant breeding are too significant to ignore and deserve further investigation and advancement through additional research and development. The integration of nanotechnology in tissue culture has shown great potential for improving breeding strategies and enhancing crop productivity. Using various nanomaterials and nanotools, researchers have been able to develop more efficient methods for plant transformation, genome editing, and gene expression analysis. Using various nanomaterials and nanotools, researchers have been able to enhance seed germination rates, reduce the negative effects of environmental stressors, and improve overall plant growth and development. ','-','Duluri Soumya, Delvadiya I.R., Murakonda Sai Dinesh and Ginoya A.V. (2023). Nanotechnology Enabled Advancements in Plant Breeding. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 15(5): 585-592.'),(6670,'157','Prevalence of Bacterial Vaginosis among Symptomatic Pregnant Women in Bundelkhand Region: A Cross-Sectional Study','Deepika T., Rishi S., Sippy A. and Sonika G.','Prevalence-of-Bacterial-Vaginosis-among-Symptomatic-Pregnant-Women-in-Bundelkhand-Region-A-Cross-Sectional-Study-Deepika-T-87.pdf','',1,'Vaginal infections during pregnancy can cause serious difficulties for both the mother and the new born, leading to gynaecologic and obstetric issues. BV may be classified as a sexually enhanced disease (SED) rather than sexually transmitted diseases (STD), with the frequency of intercourse playing an important role. As a result, greater emphasis should be placed on investigating primary preventive strategies. However, no study has assessed the prevalence of BV among pregnant women in Uttar Pradesh\'s Bundelkhand region. As a result, this study was conducted to investigate the prevalence of BV among pregnant women. Material and methods: This cross-sectional study was conducted among the symptomatic pregnant women lying in any gestational week, attending the OPD/IPD of Obstetrics and Gynecology Department of MLB Medical College of Jhansi with universal safety precautions during the period of 2 years from January 2021 to December 2022. A total 250 samples were randomly collected. The vaginal swabs were taken for all the pregnant woman. Amsel\'s clinical criteria for bacterial vaginosis diagnosis were used in this study. Data were analyzed in SPSS v- 24. Chi-square test was applied. p value <0.05 was considered statistically significant. Results: The prevalence of BV among pregnant women in this study was 28%. Women in the first trimester of pregnancy had a higher proportion of BV than those in later trimesters, and this difference was statistically significant. Women who were multiparous, had a history of miscarriage, had a low socioeconomic status, and were using oral contraceptives were more likely to have BV. Conclusion: BV is prevalent among pregnant women in the Bundelkhand region, and early detection is critical for favourable pregnancy outcomes and reducing complications. As most of the participants were from rural backgrounds, it was a challenge to make them understand the need for such study and taking participation consent. Primary preventive strategies should be emphasized, particularly for women who are multiparous, have a history of miscarriage, have a low socioeconomic status, and are using oral contraceptives.','Prevalence, Bacterial Vaginosis, Pregnant woman, Amsel\'s criteria, Multiparous','According to Amsel\'s criteria, almost one-third of the pregnant women in our study had bacterial vaginosis. Bacterial vaginosis is more common in first-trimester pregnant women. As BV is common in pregnant women, early detection of pregnant women with the aforementioned characteristics should be a key element of the laboratory inquiry, as it is critical for favourable pregnancy outcomes and reducing problems.','-','Deepika T., Rishi S., Sippy A. and Sonika G. (2023). Prevalence of Bacterial Vaginosis among Symptomatic Pregnant Women in Bundelkhand Region: A Cross-Sectional Study. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 15(5): 593-596.'),(6671,'157','Reproductive Traits of Crossbred Pigs Reared under Two Accommodations','Jongpongrenla Jamir, V.K. Vidyarthi, M.C. Rutsa, Drusilla Jishing Rengma, \r\nThejanuo Rio and Naorem Diana Devi','Reproductive-Traits-of-Crossbred-Pigs-Reared-under-Two-Accommodations-Jongpongrenla-Jamir-88.pdf','',1,'A total of 12 female crossbreed pigs (Hampshire × Tenyivo) with a genetic ratio of 75:25 were raised for 28 fortnights in two different housing types, i.e., group housing (Group 1, T1) and individual housing (Group 2, T2), at ages of 42 days each. With the aim to see the effect of rearing space on the animal welfare in terms of reproduction. Pigs\' average ages at first mating were 330 days and 350 days for T1 and T2, their average ages at first farrowing were 446.33 days and 465 days for T1 and T2, their average litter sizes were 6.83 and 6.00 for T1 and T2, and their average litter weights were 7.59 kg and 5.67 kg for T1 and T2, respectively. T1 and T2. Age at first mating, age at first farrowing, litter size, and litter weight results for reproductive traits showed no differences. Based on the findings, it can be said that the reproductive features of crossbred animals under two distinct accommodations in Hampshire × Tenyivo crosses with a ratio of 75:25 do not differ.','Group accommodation, individual accommodation, reproductive traits, age at first mating, age at first farrowing, litter size and litter weight, crossbreed pigs, different housing, Hampshire, Tenyivo, animal welfare','The study was carried out to evaluate the reproductive features of crossbred pigs grown in two different environments. Twelve crossbred pigs were separated into two groups for this investigation, T1 for group living and T2 for individual housing. All of the animals were raised utilising the same food regimen and housing scheme. The average age at first mating recorded in the T1 and T2 groups was 330.17±5.72 vs. 350.17±5.72 (days). Statistical analysis demonstrated that there was no difference between the T1 and T2 groups, regardless of treatment. The average age at first farrowing recorded in T1 and T2 groups was 446.33±5.19 vs. 465.17±15.96 (days). Statistical analysis found no differences between the T1 and T2 groups. The average value for litter size recorded was 6.83±1.01 vs. 6.00±0.58 in the T1 and T2 groups, respectively. Statistical analysis demonstrated that there was no difference between the T1 and T2 groups, regardless of treatment. The average litter weight recorded was 7.59±1.31 (kg) in the T1 group and vs. 5.67±0.5 (kg) in the T2 group. Statistical analysis demonstrated that there was no difference between the T1 and T2 groups, regardless of treatment.','-','Jongpongrenla Jamir, V.K. Vidyarthi, M.C. Rutsa, Drusilla Jishing Rengma, Thejanuo Rio and Naorem Diana Devi (2023). Reproductive Traits of Crossbred Pigs Reared under Two Accommodations. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 15(5): 597-601.'),(6672,'157','The Impact of Stubble Burning on Soil Microbial Community: A Comparative Analysis of Colony-forming Units of Rhizospheric Bacteria','Khare J. and Bharti D.','The-Impact-of-Stubble-Burning-on-Soil-Microbial-Community-A-Comparative-Analysis-of-Colony-forming-Units-of-Rhizospheric-Bacteria-Khare-J-89.pdf','',1,'India\'s economy is powered by its agricultural sector. India has the second-largest agro-based economy in the world. A year-round agricultural waste comes from high levels of agricultural production. Even if the costs of collecting, processing, and transportation may be greater, the consequences of burning crop residue are intolerable which has a huge impact on soil ecology as well. An important component of soil ecology is the organisms that are necessary for nutrient cycling, the decomposition of organic matter, the support of plant development, and the production of soil. Therefore, the presence of microbial soil fertility components is essential; unfortunately, they are occasionally ignored or completely discarded. Stubble burning has been a flammable topic concerned with the environment as a whole. Not only has it impacted the air but soil microbial life as well. Viable plate count is a promising method to account for the impact of stubble burning on microorganisms present in the rhizosphere. Soil from wheat (Triticum aestivum) fields was collected from different regions of Madhya Pradesh at three intervals and subjected to viable plate count method to assess the effect of stubble burning on the microorganisms present in the soil. Colony forming units (cfu) were calculated in 100 soil samples of stubble burning fields. A significant decrease in the number of viable colony forming cells was observed in the soils collected after the burning of stubble in the wheat fields indicating a harmful effect of this practice in farming. The overall results showed average before burning cfu count as 2.03 × 108 cells/gram of soil. However, after burning average cfu count came as 2.96 × 107 cells/gram of soil. The purpose of this article is to present a concise overview of the existing situation of stubble burning, loss of bacterial biodiversity and potential remedies in order to enhance sustainable agricultural industry. The cfu count proved to be a good measure in assessing microbial flora and the impact of stubble burningon rhizospheric bacteria.','cfu count, stubble, Rhizosphere, viable colony, Triticum aestivum','The impact of stubble burning can be clearly visualized in soil samples collected from wheat fields set on fire. Even the lowest cfu count in the before burning samples were higher than the after burning ones. This issue is serious and a huge lesson has to be taken in terms of soil ecology. Microorganisms are an inherent part of soil and such continuous exposure to stubble burning may lead to some deleterious changes in the microbial biodiversity.','-','Khare J. and Bharti D. (2023). The Impact of Stubble Burning on Soil Microbial Community: A Comparative Analysis of Colony-forming Units of Rhizospheric Bacteria. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 15(5): 602-606.'),(6673,'157','Synergistic Effect of Putrescine and TDZ on in vitro Regeneration of Lagerstroemia speciosa L.','Waquar Ahmad and Saad Bin Javed','Synergistic-Effect-of-Putrescine-and-TDZ-on-in-vitro-Regeneration-of-Lagerstroemia-speciosa-L.-Saad-Bin-Javed-90.pdf','',1,'Lagerstroemia speciosa, an important medicinal plant known for its anti-diabetic properties due to the presence of Corosolic acid, presents challenges in commercial cultivation due to its long life cycle as a tree. This study aimed to overcome these challenges by developing a highly reproducible protocol for in vitro regeneration of L. speciosa using nodal segments or shoot tips. Various concentrations of TDZ were tested for in vitro shoot bud induction, followed by transfer to WPM media supplemented with cytokinin. The study found that the combination of putrescine (40µM) and mT (5 µM) in the WPM medium yielded the highest number of shoots (18.6) with an average shoot length of 13.8cm in 87.2% of the cultures after 8 weeks of incubation. Successful rhizogenesis was induced in shootlets using ½ WPM supplemented with indole-3-butyric acid (0.5 µM). Finally, the regenerated plantlets with well-developed roots were successfully acclimatized.','Regeneration, TDZ, meta-Topolin, Putrescine','An efficient protocol for in vitro regeneration has been developed to enable mass propagation of Lagerstroemia speciosa L. using shoot tips or nodal segments as explants. The study also highlights the stimulating effect of putrescine on the in vitro regeneration potential of L. speciosa induced by TDZ. The highest induction of shoot buds was achieved on WPM medium supplemented with mT (5µM) + put (40 µM), exceeding the effects of BA and KIN. Additionally, IBA (0.5µM) was found to be the most effective hormone for in vitro rooting, resulting in an average of 4.5 roots with a mean length of 4.9cm in 86.8% of cultures. The regenerated plantlets, exhibiting well-developed roots, were successfully acclimatized and transferred to field conditions.','-','Waquar Ahmad and Saad Bin Javed (2023). Synergistic Effect of Putrescine and TDZ on in vitro Regeneration of Lagerstroemia speciosa L. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 15(5): 607-613.'),(6674,'157','Influence of Neem Coated Urea and Nano Urea on the Agronomic Traits of Finger Millet (Eleusine coracana L. Gaertn) under Irrigated Conditions','Santhosh Anto Kumar R., Sharmili K., Isaac Manuel R. and Balaganesh B.','Influence-of-Neem-Coated-Urea-and-Nano-Urea-on-the-Agronomic-Traits-of-Finger-Millet-(Eleusine-coracana-L.-Gaertn)-under-Irrigated-Conditions-K-Sharmili-91.pdf','',1,'To reduce losses due to ammonia volatilization, nitrate leaching, denitrification, and improving nitrogen efficiency, furthermore to evaluate the impact of different nitrogen sources on finger millet production, a field experiment was laid out with Randomised Block Design having seven treatments which is replicated thrice. Treatments followed were T1: Control, T2: P and K only, T3: 100% Neem coated urea + P and K, T4: 75% Neem coated urea + 25% Nano urea + P and K, T5: 50% Neem coated urea + 50% Nano urea + P and K, T6: 25% Neem coated urea + 75% Nano urea + P and K and T7: 100% Nano urea + P and K. The results revealed that the treatment combining 50% Neem coated urea (NCU) + 50% Nano urea (NU) + P and K (T5) performed exceptionally well compared to the other treatments. This particular treatment exhibited notable outcomes, including increased plant height (93.7 cm), a higher total number of ear heads per hill (8.58), greater total dry matter production (6443 kg/ha), improved grain yield (4350 kg/ha), higher straw yield (5829 kg/ha), enhanced net return (Rs. 88,247/ha), and a benefit-cost ratio of (2.60).','Finger millet, Neem-coated urea, Nano urea, Nitrogen, Yield, Economics','According to the findings of a field research, finger millet is increasing in Coimbatore\'s southern region with the application of T5 (50% Neem coated urea + 50 % Nano urea and P and K) produced a significantly higher yield of both grain and straw. Hence it can be recommended as a better treatment for the farmers. Also, the application of (75% Neem coated urea + 25% Nano urea + P and K) can be considered as a second option for obtaining higher yield and economics of growing finger millet.','-','Santhosh Anto Kumar R., Sharmili K., Isaac Manuel R., Balaganesh B., Kausalya A., Dhivyalakshmi T. and Preethi V. (2023). Influence of Neem Coated Urea and Nano Urea on the Agronomic Traits of Finger Millet (Eleusine coracana L. Gaertn) under Irrigated Conditions. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 15(5): 614-617.'),(6675,'157','Farrowing Behaviour of Crossbred Pigs Reared Under Two Accommodations','Jongpongrenla Jamir, V.K. Vidyarthi, M.C. Rutsa, Thejanuo Rio, Drusilla, Jishing Rengma and Naorem Diana Devi','Farrowing-Behaviour-of-Crossbred-Pigs-Reared-Under-Two-Accommodations-Jongpongrenla-Jamir-92.pdf','',1,'12 female crossbreed pigs (Hampshire × Tenyivo) in the genetic ratio of 75:25 at the age of 42 days each were reared in two different accommodation, i.e., (Group 1, T1) group accommodation and (Group 2, T2) individual accommodation under standard management conditions for 28 fortnights. With the aim to determine the effect of rearing space for the animal welfare in terms of farrowing behaviour. The result for time spent on different activities in farrowing behaviour revealed that there was no significance difference in the behaviour for pawing, straw, biting, grunting, straining. However, there was significant difference in rooting behaviour. The duration of rooting was significantly (P<0.01) higher in group accommodation with the mean value of 19.65 and 18.44 for T1 and T2 group respectively. Furthermore, the effect for frequency on different activities in farrowing behaviour revealed that there was no significance difference in the behaviour for pawing, rooting, straw, biting, grunting, and straining. From the results, it can be concluded that different types of accommodation in the crosses of Hampshire × Tenyivo with the ratio of 75:25 has affect on time spent for rooting behaviour. ','Group accommodation, individual accommodation, pawing, rooting, straw, biting, grunting, straining crossbreed pigs, different housing, Hampshire, Tenyivo, animal welfare','The study was carried out to assess farrowing behavior of crossbred pigs reared under two accommodations. For this study 12 crossbred pigs were divided into two groups, where T1 was for group housing and T2 for individual housing. All the animals were reared under similar feeding regime and standard housing system. The average values of time spent for pawing recorded was 60.68 vs. 61.67 (min) in T1 and T2 group respectively. Statistical analysis revealed that there were no difference among the T1 group and T2 group, irrespective of the treatments. The average values of time spent for rooting recorded was 19.65 vs. 18.44 (min) in T1 and T2 group respectively. Statistical analysis revealed that there were significant (P<0.05) difference among the T1 group and T2 group. It can be interpreted that time spent for rooting was influenced by the different types of accommodation. The average values of time spent for straw recorded was 14.60 vs. 14.44 (min) in T1 and T2 group respectively. Statistical analysis revealed that there were difference among the T1 group and T2 group, irrespective of the treatments. The average values of time spent for biting recorded was 0.67 vs. 0.61 (min) in T1 and T2 group respectively. Statistical analysis revealed that there were difference among the T1 group and T2 group, irrespective of the treatments. The average values of time spent for grunting recorded was 27.42 vs. 27.68 (min) in T1 and T2 group respectively. Statistical analysis revealed that there were difference among the T1 group and T2 group, irrespective of the treatments. The average values of time spent for drinking recorded was 10.26 vs. 9.89 (min) in T1 and T2 group respectively. Statistical analysis revealed that there were difference among the T1 group and T2 group, irrespective of the treatments.\r\nThe average values for frequency of pawing recorded was 3.39 vs. 3.30 (times) in T1 and T2 group respectively. Statistical analysis revealed that there were no difference among the T1 group and T2 group, irrespective of the treatments. The average values for frequency of rooting recorded was 5.50 vs. 5.33 (times) in T1 and T2 group respectively. Statistical analysis revealed that there were no difference among the T1 group and T2 group, irrespective of the treatments. The average values for frequency of straw recorded was 1.94 vs. 2.06 (times) in T1 and T2 group respectively. Statistical analysis revealed that there were no difference among the T1 group and T2 group, irrespective of the treatments. The average values for frequency of biting recorded was 0.44 vs. 0.39 (times) in T1 and T2 group respectively. Statistical analysis revealed that there were no difference among the T1 group and T2 group, irrespective of the treatments. The average values for frequency of grunting recorded was 2.89 vs. 2.78 (times) in T1 and T2 group respectively. Statistical analysis revealed that there were no difference among the T1 group and T2 group, irrespective of the treatments. The average values for frequency of straining recorded was 0.61 vs. 0.67 (times) in T1 and T2 group respectively. Statistical analysis revealed that there were no difference among the T1 group and T2 group, irrespective of the treatments. From the results, it may be concluded that the farrowing behaviour for different types of accommodation in time spent on different activities and frequency on different activities had no effect in the behaviour for pawing, straw, biting, grunting, straining. However there was significant difference in rooting behaviour.\r\n','-','Jongpongrenla Jamir, V.K. Vidyarthi, M.C. Rutsa, Thejanuo Rio, Drusilla, Jishing Rengma and Naorem Diana Devi (2023). Farrowing Behaviour of Crossbred Pigs Reared Under Two Accommodations. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 15(5): 618-623.'),(6676,'157','Effect of Supplementation of Asparagus racemosus on Milk Production in Jersey Crossbred Cows during Peripartum Period','Guru D.V. Pandiyan, V. Leela, S. Eswari, M. Ramachandran, V. Ranganathan and P. Visha','Effect-of-Supplementation-of-Asparagus-racemosus-on-Milk-Production-in-Jersey-Crossbred-Cows-during-Peripartum-Period-Guru-DV-Pandiyan-93.pdf','',1,'The impact of Asparagus racemosus supplementation on milk yield and composition in Jersey crossbred cows during the peripartum period was studied. Twelve crossbred cows in the last trimester of pregnancy were randomly assigned into two groups, as control and experiment. Experimental animals were given 100mg/kg body weight for 4 weeks before parturition and @200mg/kg body weight post-partum for 4 weeks after parturition of Asparagus racemosus root powder. The research was carried out over a period of three months. The amount of milk produced was recorded daily. The composition of each animal\'s milk was analyzed on a weekly basis. The mean milk yield and mean milk protein were increased significantly (p<0.01) in the experimental group. The mean milk fat and milk SNF were increased significantly (p<0.05) in the experimental group. The mean milk lactose increased in the experimental group non-significantly. Supplementation with Asparagus racemosus substantially improved milk yield and milk composition in the present study. It can be used to alleviate the metabolic stress in lactating Jersey crossbred cows during the peripartum period.','Galactagogue, Herbal, Lactation, Shatavari, postpartum, Metabolic, Stress','Asparagus racemosus can be supplemented to alleviate metabolic stress and maintains productivity in lactating Jersey crossbred animals during the peripartum period.','-','Guru D.V. Pandiyan, V. Leela, S. Eswari, M. Ramachandran, V. Ranganathan and P. Visha (2023). Effect of Supplementation of Asparagus racemosus on Milk Production in Jersey Crossbred Cows during Peripartum Period. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 15(5): 624-627.'),(6677,'157','Distribution, Habitat of Species of Sauria of Ladakh with Detail of Morphometry of Altiphylax stoliczkai (Steindachner), Frontier Bow-fingered Gecko, Baltistan Gecko, or Karakorum Gecko Endemic to South Asia, Recorded after 144 Years from Ladakh (India) & their Conservation Strategies','Bahuguna Archana, Nair Akhil and Jabeen Fatma','Distribution,-Habitat-of-Species-of-Sauria-of-Ladakh-with-Detail-of-Morphometry-of-Altiphylax-stoliczkai--(Steindachner),-Frontier-Bow-fingered-Gecko,-Baltistan-Gecko,-or-Karakorum-G-Baaahuguna-Archana-94.pdf','',1,'Ladakh is a cold desert with very tough terrain and adverse climate with average annual precipitation of 3 inches (80 mm) only. Fine, dry, flaked snow is frequent and sometimes falls heavily and only few months are suitable to survey the area for reptilian diversity (March to August). In the present study seven species of lizards were reported from Ladakh, Union Territory of India based on extensive survey of 15 days and also based on previous surveys done by scientists of High Altitude Regional Center, Zoological Survey of India and also based on the published literature available. 29 specimens were examined for the study. Morphometry was done for three specimens of Altiphylax stoliczkai (Steindachner), collected from Ganglas, Ladakh, recorded after 144 years from Ladakh (Southeast) India. The habitats of the species were described based on observation during survey and also described based on literature. Conservation strategies were mentioned as the region is ecologically very sensitive and fragile. ','Ladakh, sauria, habitat, conservation','Seven species reported from Ladakh is an updated information about the distribution of lizards in Ladakh with details of habitat types and localities. The distribution maps presented in this paper provide visualized occurrence records to fill a gap in the knowledge of biodiversity of saurians in Ladakh, the Union Territory of India and will help the prioritization of conservation efforts and the identification of important conservation areas for lizards. Altiphylax stoliczkai (Steindachner), frontier bow-fingered gecko, Baltistan gecko, or Karakorum gecko was collected from Ganglas, is a new record for India from Ladakh (Southeast).','-','Bahuguna Archana, Nair Akhil and Jabeen Fatma (2023). Distribution, Habitat of Species of Sauria of Ladakh with Detail of Morphometry of Altiphylax stoliczkai (Steindachner), Frontier Bow-fingered Gecko, Baltistan Gecko, or Karakorum Gecko Endemic to South Asia, Recorded after 144 Years from Ladakh (India) & their Conservation Strategies. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 15(5): 628-635.'),(6678,'157','Evaluation of Phytochemical Analysis and In vitro Antioxidant activities of Stem and Leaf extract of Andrographis echioides (L.) Nees','Ranjani N., Kannan R., Kokila D., Bhuvaneswari V. and Vishnu Kumar S.','Evaluation-of-Phytochemical-Analysis-and-In-vitro-Antioxidant-activities-of-Stem-and-Leaf-extract-of-Andrographis-echioides-(L.)-Nees-Ranjani-N-95.pdf','',1,'Plants are essential to human life on Earth and serve as its foundation. Their therapeutic uses are another important aspect of plants. Medicinal plants provide an excellent source of lead compounds for the finding new drugs with few adverse reactions, which is a very respectable source. The Andrographis echioides is a highly medicinal valuable plant widely spread in south India. The plant general name is called as “false water willow”. The objective of the current study is to assess the in vitro antioxidant activity, quantitatively estimating, and qualitative phytochemical evaluation of different extraction of the Andrographis echioides both leaves and stems. The dried leaf while stem powders of Andrographis echioides was phytochemically analyzed, and it was found to include carbohydrates, proteins, amino acids, alkaloids, saponins, phenols, flavonoids, glycosides, cardiac glycosides, fixed fats and oils, gums, and Musilages. The DPPH, FRAP, Reducing Power, and Phosphoromolybdenum tests methods were utilized to investigate phytochemicals and in vitro antioxidant capabilities. The traditional usage of Andrographis echioides as a complementary medicine for treating specific medical disorders is supported by the presence of phytochemical components. Additional research should be done to extract particular phytochemical chemical ingredients, and these compounds should then be used in various studies to examine their biological impacts. A medicinal plant called Andrographis echioides is used to cure a variety of diseases. It may have antioxidant qualities. Finding a novel herbal remedy for oxidative stress from Andrographis echioides is the goal of the current research.','DPPH, FRAP, Phytochemicals, Andrographis echioides, Reducing power assay, Secondary metabolites, Phosphomolybdenum','The phytochemical components and in vitro antioxidant activity are screened in the leaves and stems of Andrographis echioides. Utilising various solvents and their polar nature, phytochemicals and in vitro anti-oxidant properties are estimated. The Ethyl acetate extract of the stem contained the highest concentration of antioxidants found in the plant and the greatest number of secondary metabolites. The examination is particularly beneficial for creating novel medications to treat a variety of diseases. According to the analysis mentioned earlier, the plant has a great deal of potential to be exploited in drugs and as a potential source of significant medicines. Because it contains several phytocompounds that are essential for good health, it can be used to improve society\'s overall health. Research is currently being performed to uncover innovative, dynamic, and unique remedies for a number of serious diseases that have lately been identified.','-','Ranjani N., Kannan R., Kokila D., Bhuvaneswari V. and Vishnu Kumar S. (2023). Evaluation of Phytochemical Analysis and Invitro Antioxidant activities of Stem and Leaf extract of Andrographis echioides (L.) Nees. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 15(5): 636-646.'),(6679,'157','In vitro Evaluation of the Antifungal Effect of Nanoparticles against Fusarium sacchari causing Pokkah Boeng Disease of Sugarcane','Sneha Shikha, Geeta Sharma and Kajol Kumari','In-vitro-Evaluation-of-the-Antifungal-Effect-of-Nanoparticles-Against-Fusarium-sacchari-causing-Pokkah-Boeng-Disease-of-Sugarcane-Sneha-Shikha-96.pdf','',1,'Nanomaterials can contribute to the formulation of new, sustainable and effective fungicides for the control of fungi such as Fusarium sacchari causing Pokkah boeng disease of sugarcane. The present investigation was undertaken to screen different concentrations of engineered nanoparticles in the management of Fusarium sacchari. In this work, various engineered nanoparticles were evaluated at four different concentrations (50, 100, 150 and 200 ppm) through poisoned food technique to determine their antifungal activity in inhibiting the mycelial growth of Fusarium sacchari. The cent per cent mycelial growth inhibition was noticed with silver nanoparticles at 200 ppm concentration which was significantly superior over other nanoparticles tested. Whereas, the least mycelial growth inhibition was noticed in alumina (71.18 %) followed by titanium dioxide nanoparticles (74.71 %). According to our findings, the application of silver nanoparticles could be a viable alternative for the control of Pokkah boeng disease or even be integrated into novel disease management strategies.','Fusarium sacchari, nanoparticles, poison food technique, mycelial growth inhibition','Among five commercially available engineered nanoparticles tested, cent per cent mycelial growth inhibition was noticed with silver followed by silicon carbide (81.76 %) whereas, least inhibition was observed with alumina (71.18 %) at 200 ppm concentration. It is possible to use silver nanoparticles as fungicides to control Fusarium sacchari with relative safety. Despite this, regulation of nanoparticle use is still pending among the scientific community. It is essential to conduct more research into the toxic potential of silver nanoparticles and the possible risks they pose. A further assessment of their fungicide potential would require additional in vivo research. ','-','Sneha Shikha, Geeta Sharma and Kajol Kumari (2023). In vitro Evaluation of the Antifungal Effect of Nanoparticles against Fusarium sacchari causing Pokkah Boeng Disease of Sugarcane. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 15(5): 647-650.'),(6680,'157','Spikelet Fertility Strongly Influences the Genetic Structure of F2 Population of CB174R/Iguapecateto Cross in Rice (Oryza sativa L.)','J. Piyari, R. Saraswathi, R. Sangeetha, B. Meena Kumari, D. Kumaresan, \r\nC. Gopalakrishnan and V. Balasubramani','Spikelet-Fertility-Strongly-Influences-the-Genetic-Structure-of-F2-Population-of-CB174RIguapecateto-Cross-in-Rice-(Oryza-sativa-L.)-R.-Saraswathi-97.pdf','',1,'The next generation of hybrid rice is based on exploitation of inter subspecific heterosis for which, development of restorers in indica/tropical japonica background suitable for tropical countries like India assumes importance. The progenies of sub-specific crosses exhibit spikelet sterility of varying degrees that have an impact on genetic structure of the population and further selection. Hence, the present study was aimed to understand the F2 population structure of an inter sub-specific cross CB174R/Iguapecateto in terms of mean, frequency of individuals, variability, heritability, correlation, direct and indirect influence of seven quantitative traits in whole and a subset of population for further selection. The population consisting of 781 plants was evaluated during June 2019 at Paddy Breeding Station, Department of Rice, CPBG, TNAU Coimbatore. Plants with 75% spikelet fertility were considered as highly fertile. Fifty five plants with above 75% spikelet fertility was formulated as a subset population. Majority of plants (70.87%) possessed 50.0-70.0% spikelet fertility in the whole population. A wide range noticed in the original population has been retained from 50-75% in subset population in different characters except spikelet fertility. The subset population had higher mean performance for most of the traits except 100-seed weight. Selection for spikelet fertility has influenced other traits like plant height, productive tillers, panicle length and single plant yield in frequency classes. Though PCV was higher than GCV for all the traits in both populations, differences were noticed for the traits spikelet fertility, hundred seed weight and single plant yield. Regarding heritability and genetic advance, spikelet fertility exhibited differences compared to whole population. High heritability coupled with high genetic advance as percent mean revealing additive action was noticed for the traits plant height, total tillers, productive tillers and single plant yield in both the populations and selection is effective in this generation. None of the traits expressed significant correlation with single plant yield in the original population, but values were in positive direction. In subset, spikelet fertility, number of total tillers, productive tillers and panicle length had a positive and significant influence on single plant yield of which, the influence of spikelet fertility was highly significant with high positive direct effect (0.5992). Total tillers showed moderate positive direct effect on the dependent variable. Selective advancement of highly fertile plants to F3 and observation for further segregation will give us some conclusive evidences for fertility inheritance and stability of spikelet fertility in later generations.','Rice, inter sub-specific cross, Spikelet fertility (%), Frequency distribution, Variability, Heritability, Correlations and Path','The indica/tropical japonica cross synthesized using diverse parents was aimed to develop inter sub specific derivatives for restorer development. Though the F1 had 72.70%spikelet fertility, the F2 generation showed a wide range from 16 to 92% fertility signifying its impact on the structure of the population, which consisted of only 7.04% fertile plants. The cause behind this drastic reduction of fertility needs to be further explored. In the present breeding material, selection, and advancement of highly fertile plants to F3 and observation of these families for further segregation of spikelet fertility will give us some conclusive evidence for fertility inheritance and stability of spikelet fertility in later generations up to F6 for restorer development.','-','J. Piyari, R. Saraswathi, R. Sangeetha, B. Meena Kumari, D. Kumaresan, C. Gopalakrishnan and V. Balasubramani (2023). Spikelet Fertility Strongly Influences the Genetic Structure of F2 Population of CB174R/Iguapecateto Cross in Rice (Oryza sativa L.). Biological Forum – An International Journal, 15(5): 651-661.'),(6681,'159','Comparative Genomics Analysis of some Selected Pseudomonas Strains having Biocontrol, Plant Growth Promoting and Bioremediation activities using Bioinformatic Tools','Mehzabin Rehman, Sabnoor Yeasrin Jyoti, Preetom Regon, Subrat Kakati, \r\nPiyush Kumar Mishra and Bhaben Tanti\r\n','Comparative-Genomics-Analysis-of-some-Selected-Pseudomonas-Strains-having-Biocontrol,-Plant-Growth-Promoting-and-Bioremediation-activities-using-Bioinformatic-Tools-Mehzabin-Rehman-1.pdf','',1,'Pseudomonas that are associated with plants, often found living as parasites or saprophytes on the surfaces or inside plant species. Such species of Pseudomonas associated with plants may promote growth of plants by eliminating pathogenic microbes thereby synthesizing plant growth stimulating hormones and enhancing disease resistance in plants, biological control of plant pathogens and bioremediation. The present investigation was conducted with an aim to study comparative genomic studies of 14 Pseudomonas strains having biocontrol, PGPR and bioremediation activities keeping P. fluorescens as the reference strain. The study revealed that these strains are somewhat nearly related strains based on the various parameters undertaken, and therefore can be used collectively. With the increasing availability of sequences, the complexity of genome alignment and analysis is growing drastically with which the computational requirements of the EDGAR 2.0 and Mauve 2.3.1 have risen considerably over the past decade which supports an easy, user-friendly interface of evolutionary relationships in terms of gene order thereby gaining new biological insights of differential gene content.','Pseudomonas, biocontrol, PGPr, bioremediation, genomics, EDGAR 2.0, MAUVE 2.3.1','The study undertaken elucidated the comparative genomics between different Pseudomonas strains that have biocontrol, plant-growth promoting and bioremediation activities. The study revealed how closely or distantly the species are related in terms of their gene orders that enumerated genome rearrangements, orthologous regions of one genome to that of another in course of their evolution. The observations also revealed that some of the biocontrol and plant-growth promoting Pseudomonas are somewhat closely related in terms of their gene orders, and hence, can be used in either way i.e. in pathogenic and remediation projects. Thereby, the softwares used supports a quick and user-friendly survey of evolutionary relationships between microbial genomes and simpliﬁes the process of obtaining new biological insights into their differential gene content.','-','Mehzabin Rehman, Sabnoor Yeasrin Jyoti, Preetom Regon, Subrat Kakati, Piyush Kumar Mishra and Bhaben Tanti (2023). Comparative Genomics Analyses of some Selected Pseudomonas strains having Biocontrol, Plant Growth Promoting and Bioremediation activities using Bioinformatic Tools. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 15(6): 01-16.'),(6682,'157','Effect of Heat Stress on Grain Quality of different Rice Varieties','Priyanka Singh, Amitha Mithra Sevanthi, Shalini Gaur Rudra, Ashok Kumar Singh and Nagendra Kumar Singh','Effect-of-Heat-Stress-on-Grain-Quality-of-different-Rice-Varieties-Priyanka-Singh-98.pdf','',1,'Rice grain quality is sensitive to heat stress during grain filling. To analyse the effect, twelve different varieties of rice were grown in field and then transferred to pots at their early tillering stage. One set of each genotype was grown under control conditions while another set was shifted to 2-3°C higher temperature in a glasshouse (maintained between 9 AM to 3 PM with diurnal variation). There was a negative impact of high temperature on grain chalkiness and amylose content. Rheological properties, including peak viscosity, breakdown viscosity, final viscosity, and setback viscosity showed significant differences between the control and heat stress. Scanning electron microscopic examination showed that the arrangement of starch granules in rice grains during grain filling stage was affected by high temperature. Developing heat-tolerant rice varieties with improved grain filling, stable starch synthesis and resistance to high temperatures, along with implementing enhanced cultivation practices, can have great potential for sustainable and high-quality rice production.','Grain chalkiness, Paste viscosity, High temperature, Rice','In conclusion, high temperature during grain filling in rice showed negative impact on starch accumulation and its composition. Development of rice varieties that are more tolerant to high temperatures during grain filling and stable starch synthesis and packing is essential to overcome these negative effects. This study enlightens the adverse effect of high temperature on rice grain chalkiness and starch qualities, thus exploring the problem at gene level and developing heat tolerant genotypes using molecular breeding approaches is required.','-','Priyanka Singh, Amitha Mithra Sevanthi, Shalini Gaur Rudra, Ashok Kumar Singh and Nagendra Kumar Singh (2023). Effect of Heat Stress on Grain Quality of different Rice Varieties. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 15(5): 662-668.'),(6683,'157','Constraints in the Expansion of Custom Hiring Services of Farm Machinery in Haryana','Sagar Rawal, Ashok Dhillon, Dalip Kumar Bishnoi, Raj Ratan Panday and Parminder Singh','Constraints-in-the-Expansion-of-Custom-Hiring-Services-of-Farm-Machinery-in-Haryana-Sagar-Rawal-99.pdf','',1,'Agriculture in India for a long time has faced a problem of low farm power availability. To increase the farm power availability to 2kw/ha Ministry of Agriculture and Farmers Welfare, Government of India started Sub Mission on Agricultural Mechanization (SMAM) in the year 2014. The study was conducted in the Kurukshetra district of Haryana during the agricultural year 2020-2021. Primary data from 80 farmers and 10 farm machinery owners were collected regarding the constraints faced by them. The severity of constraints was ascertained by using Garret’s ranking method. Difficulty in the availability of farm machines at peak season was found to be the most common constraint of farmers hiring from private farm machinery providers. Whereas, non-availability of all the machines was found to be the most severe constraint faced by farmers in hiring machinery from Custom Hiring Centres (CHCs). For CHC’s owners, the most severe problem was relatively lower demand for machines like turbo happy seeder, straw choppers etc. In the case of private farm machinery owners, the most severe constraint was the higher initial cost of investment. Hence, the study suggested that there is a need of increasing awareness among farmers regarding CHCs. Also, there is a need for improvement in the culture of using machines such as turbo happy seeder. Further, increasing the number of CHCs can also improve the accessibility to the machinery.','Constraints, Custom Hiring Centres, Farm Machinery, Garret Ranking, Mechanization','The study was conducted to identify and understand the severity of constraints faced by farmers in hiring farm machinery and owners in providing machines. It concluded that on as well as less availability of farm machinery at peak hours of farm operations was a common constraint faced by farmers. Whereas, delays in payments, fewer hours of working window, and higher initial investments were some major constraints in the case of both CHCs as well as private farm machinery service providers. Keeping in view of the above findings, the study concluded that there is a need to increase the awareness among farmers regarding custom hiring services so that objectives of crop residue management can be achieved successfully by efficient utilization of machines like turbo happy seeder, straw choppers etc. in the study area. ','-','Sagar Rawal, Ashok Dhillon, Dalip Kumar Bishnoi, Raj Ratan Panday and Parminder Singh (2023). Constraints in the Expansion of Custom Hiring Services of Farm Machinery in Haryana. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 15(5): 669-673.'),(6684,'157','Assessment of Yellow Sorghum Palem Pacha Jonna-1 (PYPS 2) Performance through on Farm Testing in Telangana','Maheshwaramma S., Nagesh Kumar M.V., Shankar M., Ramesh S., Shashibushan D., Prabhakar M., Sameer Kumar C.V., Venkata Ramana M., Avil Kumar K. and Govardhan M. ','Assessment-of-Yellow-Sorghum--Palem-Pacha-Jonna-1-(PYPS-2)-Performance-through-on-Farm-Testing-in-Telangana-Maheshwaramma-S-100.pdf','',1,'In Southern Telangana zone, local yellow sorghums are very popular among the farming community as the soils of this area are light, annual rainfall between 350-450 mm, 80% of the cultivation is under rainfed and farmers highly preferred to take yellow jowar roti and millets products daily in their meal but the cultivated local yellow sorghums are very low yielder, prone to pest and diseases and having low protein content in grains. To address these challenges, Regional Agricultural Research Station, Palem developed Palem Pacha Jonna 1 (PYPS 2) which is dual purpose and high yielder, tolerance to pests and diseases and having high protein content (12.02%). On-farm trials were conducted by RARS, Palem, PJTSAU under the NICRA project from kharif 2015 to 2018 to evaluate the potential of the yellow sorghum cultivar PYPS 2 with proven production technologies in different districts with various farming situations of Telangana. The average higher grain yield was recorded in improved practice (1930.9 kg/ha) with a percent increase of 16.2% against farmers’ practice (1663.1kg/ha). High dry fodder yield, height (287.6 cm), higher 100 seed weight (2.9 g/100 seed) were observed in improved practice as compared to farmers’ practice with low dry fodder yield 4647.8 kg/ha, days to 50% flowering (66.6 days), plant height (263.6 cm) and 100 seed weight (2.6 g/100 seed) during kharif 2015- 2018. The extension gap, technology gap and technology index were recorded 267.8 kg/ha, 1069.1 kg/ha and 35.6%, respectively during the study period. The mean higher net returns were recorded in improved practice of Rs.60,966.9/ha than the farmers’ practice Rs. 43,120.3/ha. The average benefit-cost ratio of 3.4 was noticed in improved practice against farmers’ practice of 2.6. The mean of sustainability yield index and sustainability value index of improved practice were 0.77 and 0.69 than the farmers’ practice 0.74 and 0.61 respectively, during the evaluation period.','Sorghum, On-farm trials, Yield, Yield attributes, Economic returns, SYI, SVI','The present study clearly indicated that, yellow sorghum variety having higher grain yield, dry fodder yield, less days to 50% flowering, taller plant height and more 100 seed weight than the farmers practice. The gross net returns and benefit cost ratio were also higher in improved practice over the farmers practice. The sustainability yield index /sustainability Value index were recorded maximum in improved practice. The study showed the potential of the Palem Pacha Jonna 1variety suitable for rainfed cultivation in India. ','-','Maheshwaramma S., Nagesh Kumar M.V., Shankar M., Ramesh S., Shashibushan D., Prabhakar M., Sameer Kumar C.V., Venkata Ramana M., Avil Kumar K. and Govardhan M. (2023). Assessment of Yellow Sorghum Palem Pacha Jonna-1 (PYPS 2) Performance through on Farm Testing in Telangana. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 15(5): 674-680.'),(6685,'157','Determination of Optimum Incubation Time for the Formation and Quantification of Xanthomonas axonopodis pv. citri Biofilms on Abiotic Surface','Ganesuni Lakshmi Prasanna, K. Gopal, Ch. Ruth, Y. Sireesha, Syed Sadarunnisa and V.V. Padmaja ','Determination-of-Optimum-Incubation-Time-for-the-Formation-and-Quantification-of-Xanthomonas-axonopodis-pv.-citri-Biofilms-on-Abiotic-Surface-Ganesuni-Lakshmi-Prasanna-101.pdf','',1,'Xanthomonas axonopodis pv. citri (Xac) is the most devastating pathogen to Citrus spp. as well as acid lime and are able to form a biofilm, making it difficult to manage canker disease. Biofilm formation is one of the mechanisms that bacterial communities use to adapt to unfavourable environmental conditions and to survive and colonize in host plants. Hence, the present study aims to investigate the ability of thirty-two isolates of Xac to form biofilms on abiotics surface at different intervals and quantification of biofilm has done. The results revealed that, the biofilms formed strongly adhered to the plates on days one, three, five, seven and nine. Interestingly on day two (48 h) of incubation most of the isolates showed the highest biofilms formation. However, moderate biofilm formation onto the microtiter plates by the isolates were observed on days five and seven, but non-adherence was observed on days one. These strains were grouped into four categories. The isolate which does not formed any biofilm (Xac-23), the isolates with week biofilm formation viz., Xac-15 and Xac-26, the isolates with moderately formed biofilm viz., Xac-2 and Xac-32, and the remaining isolates viz., Xac-1, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9, 10, 11, 12, 13, 14, 16, 17, 18, 19, 20, 21, 22, 24, 25, 26, 27, 28, 29, 30, 31, formed strong biofilm on the walls of microtiter plate compared to negative control. The results concluded that 36-48h is the optimum cultivation period for Xac to form a strong biofilm in microtiter plate and could be used to study biofilm inhibitor studies further.','Biofilm, Crystal violet, Ethanol, Microtiter plate, Quantification and Xanthomonas axonopodis pv. citri','Plant pathogenic bacteria can use biofilm formation as a crucial survival tactic in their natural state. To locate and stop the systemic spread of these bacteria through abiotic surfaces, the adherence characteristic of these bacteria must be detected. In this study, we assessed the ability of Xanthomonas axonopodis pv. citri, a plant-associated bacterium, to form biofilm on an abiotic surface, such as a microtiter plate, and we timed the development of mature biofilms. After 48 hours of incubation, we discovered that Xac strains successfully formed the highest amount of biofilm on a 96-well microtiter plate using nutrient broth, and Xac then started inhibiting the growth of biofilm. ','-','Ganesuni Lakshmi Prasanna, K. Gopal, Ch. Ruth, Y. Sireesha, Syed Sadarunnisa and V.V. Padmaja (2023). Determination of Optimum Incubation Time for the Formation and Quantification of Xanthomonas axonopodis pv. citri Biofilms on Abiotic Surface. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 15(5): 681-687.'),(6686,'157','Automization in Aquaculture – A Short Review','Rajesh V. Chudasama, Jhanvi M. Tandel, Nayan A. Zala, Dignati C. Tandel, \r\nPoojan H. Patel and M.D. Shadab Alam\r\n','Automization-in-Aquaculture – A-Short-Review-Rajesh-V-Chudasama-102.pdf','',1,'The increase in population and the challenge of feeding them nutritious food is the main issue facing the world. One of the sectors that produce food that is nutrient-rich is the aquaculture industry. This business is entirely reliant on manual labor, which makes for laborious, time-consuming work that consequently raises the cost of production for farmers and results in them receiving a minimal profit today. The effective approach to managing all situations and enhancing production while lowering production costs is through automation. water quality monitoring by the sensor-based and controlled areal unnamed vehicles to spray using biosensors to monitor water quality and remotely piloted aerial vehicles to spray fertilizer or chemicals. The intelligent aeration system regulates the level of dissolved oxygen. Automatic biomass estimation and feeding management are the second things. To reduce feed loss and lower the FCR, robotics and automatic feeders are used in ponds and cages. These devices rely on the water\'s quality and the behaviour of the organisms. A farmer receives information on biomass estimation when the crop is harvested to ensure maximum output. The most essential aspect is the automatic monitoring of the organism\'s health and welfare management to detect any adverse conditions or early signs of abnormalities. A camera-based visual system known as an underwater surveillance system collects data on water quality, organism activity, feeding, cage biofouling, and net cleaning. The future of the aquaculture sector is automation. However, implementing automation technologies on a large scale and ensuring their compatibility with diverse aquaculture systems and practices pose logistical and operational challenges. Aquaculture automation enhances productivity, reduces costs, and improves sustainability. Through sensor-based monitoring, aerial vehicles, and intelligent systems, farmers optimize efficiency and meet the demand for nutritious food. Integrated camera systems monitor water quality, organism health, and welfare, ensuring optimal performance.','Automization, Aquaculture, Biomass, Disease, Drowns, Feeding, Parameters','Even though aquaculture has been practiced for 4,000 years, the sector is still new and expanding. This industry is majorly dependent on manual operation, high feed cost, disease risk, and labor requirement which has resulted in higher production cost per capita. However, modern internet-based technology and the use of autonomous machinery cannot only decrease the cost of production for farmers but also has less of an impact on the environment which will lead to economic gains for the farmers. Modern internet-based technology and autonomous machinery will also contribute to the long-term sustainability of the aquaculture industry. ','-','Rajesh V. Chudasama, Jhanvi M. Tandel, Nayan A. Zala, Dignati C. Tandel, Poojan H. Patel and M.D. Shadab Alam (2023). Automization in Aquaculture – A Short Review. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 15(5): 688-698.'),(6687,'157','Effects of Nitrogen, Phosphorous and Potassium Level on Yield Attributes and Economics of Gladiolus (Gladiolus grandiflorus L.) cv. Nova Lux','Jyoti Singh, Jitendra Kumar, Vinay Joseph Silas, Neha Negi and Aneeta Yadav','Effects-of-Nitrogen,-Phosphorous-and-Potassium-Level-on-Yield-Attributes-and-Economics-of-Gladiolus-(Gladiolus-grandiflorus-L.)-cv.-Nova-Lux-Jyoti-Singh-103.pdf','',1,'Gladiolus (Gladiolus grandiflorus L.) is a significant flower crop in India. The crop\'s yield and productivity have been significantly lower than both regional and national standards due to various factors. The primary factor is the lack of location-specific fertilizer recommendations, among others. Thus, a field experiment was conducted for two consecutive seasons at the Horticulture Research Farm, Faculty of Agriculture Sciences and Associated Industries, Rama University, Kanpur, during the academic years 2020-2021 and 2021-2022. (U.P.). A Randomized Block Design was utilized in the experiment, with 13 treatments and three replications with various doses of N, P2O5, and K2O. The main objectives of the experiment were to evaluate how N, P2O5, and K2O affected the yield characteristics and economics of Gladiolus (Gladiolus grandiflorus L.) Cv. Nova Lux. According to the results of the current study, Treatment T11(NPK @150:100:120) had the best effects on yield attributes like Number of Spikes [1.29 (202021), 1.31 (2021-22) and 1.30 (Pooled)], Weight of Spike [57.54 (2020-21), 59.02 (2021-22) and 57.85 (Pooled)] g, Number of florets per spike [17.33 (2020-21), 17.49 (2021-22) and 17.41 (Pooled)], Fresh weight of florets [3.32 (2020-21), 3.44 (2021-22) and 3.38 (Pooled)] g, dry weight of florets [0.73 (2020-21), 0.76 (2021-22) and 0.74 (Pooled)] g, Yield of Spikes per hectare [49.48 (2020-21), 52.49 (2021-22) and 50.99 (Pooled)] q/ha, Vase life of Spike [7.83 (2020-21), 7.92 (2021-22) and 7.88 (Pooled)] days, Number of Corms per plant [2.10 (2020-21), 2.11 (2021-22) and 2.10 (Pooled)] & Diameter of corms [5.42 (2020-21), 5.49 (2021-22) and 5.46 (Pooled)] cm. Treatment T11 (NPK @150:100:120) was also found with highest gross returns (370000.02 Rs/ha), Net returns (270893.02 Rs/ha) & B:C ratio of 2.73 when compared to the other treatments. However, Lowest Benefit Cost ratio (1.92) was recorded in treatment T0, i.e., control. ','Economics, Gladiolus, Gladiolus grandiflorus L., Nitrogen, Nova Lux, Phosphorous, Potassium, Yield','From the results of the current experiment, it can be inferred that Treatment T11(NPK @150:100:120), had the best effects. It was deemed to have the best yield attributes including Number of Spikes, Weight of Spike (g), Number of florets per spike, Fresh weight of florets (g), dry weight of florets (g), Yield of Spikes per hectare (q/ha), Vase life of Spike (days), Number of Corms per plant and Diameter of corms (cm). \r\nAlso, Highest Net returns (270893.02 Rs/ha) was recorded in treatment T11 (NPK @150:100:120) whereas both treatment T11 and T10 were found with same B:C ratio of 2.73. However, Lowest Benefit Cost ratio (1.92) was recorded in treatment T0, i.e., control.\r\n','-','Jyoti Singh, Jitendra Kumar, Vinay Joseph Silas, Neha Negi and Aneeta Yadav (2023). Effects of Nitrogen, Phosphorous and Potassium Level on Yield Attributes and Economics of Gladiolus (Gladiolus grandiflorus L.) cv. Nova Lux. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 15(5): 699-707.'),(6688,'157','Estimate Resources used, Cost Return Structure and Various Cost concept of Tea in Kangra District, Himachal Pradesh','Nitika Parmar, Mukesh Kumar Maurya and Avinash Mishra','Estimate-Resources-used,-Cost-Return-Structure-and-Various-Cost-concept-of-Tea-in-Kangra-District,-Himachal-Pradesh-Nitika-Parmar-104.pdf','',1,'The study was designed with the conspicuous objective of evaluating the costs involved in tea cultivation and repayment from tea production in the study area. Primary data was collected from 50 tea growers stationed in 5 randomly selected villages in a purposively selected block of Kangra district. The respondents are grouped into three different size categories: Size group I, Size group II, and Size group III. The secondary data was collected from The Palampur Co-operative Tea Factory and Tea board Palampur. It was observed that the total cost of cultivation for Size group I, Size group II, Size group III tea growers was Rs. 45720.49, Rs. 48325.34, and Rs. 49632.72, respectively, on an average cost of cultivation of Rs. 47892 on one hectare of land for tea. The overall net income per hectare was Rs. 52696.59 and gross income is Rs. 100667. Major constraints in tea production were non availability of workers in peak season, Change in climatic factors like low rainfall/high rainfall/drought/flood, and management of pest and diseases. During the survey, it was found that the tea gardens of the study were quite aged. The tea plants in Palampur are grown by the Britisher about 170 years ago which lead to lost in their vigour. Himachal government has targeted to double the tea production by next five years by bringing 100 hectares area under commercial tea cultivation in the coming 5 years. It was revealed from the data that human labour accounts for largest share in the cost of cultivation of tea is a labour-intensive crop.','Cost of cultivation, cost of production, average cost, gross income, and net income','The result revealed that the overall total cost per hectare of tea was Rs. 47892.85. the total cost was higher for Size group III farms, followed by Size group II and Size group I farms. The different components of the cost of cultivation were expenditure incurred on family labour was higher in Size Group I farms, and the share of hired labour was higher in Size group III farms. The analysis of the cost of cultivation shows that, on average, the total cost (Cost C3) per hectare of tea cultivation was Rs. 47970.07 for the sample farms in the study area. The cost C was the highest on Size group III farm, followed by Size group II and Size Group I farm. The overall gross income per hectare of tea cultivation was Rs. 100667. This was higher on Size group III farms as compared to Size group II and Size group I farms. On an overall basis, the farm business income was Rs. 72830.37 per hectare. It was higher on Size group III farms, followed by Size group II and Size group I farms. At the overall level, the cost of production was Rs. 47970.07 (Cost-C3). The major items of cost of cultivation were the rental value of owned land, human labour, tractor labour, plant protection, interest on working capital, fertiliser, and manure/FYM. The cost of production was highest on Size group III farms, followed by Size group II and Size group I farm groups. The profit at cost (C3) was highest on Size group I farms. Thus, net profit was not increased with an increase in the size of the farm. The physical constraints which rank I, II, and III are non-availability of workers in peak season, Change in climatic factors and high cost of transportation. In biological constraints the rank I was management of pest and disease and procurement of quality planting material or seed stock in rank I.','-','Nitika Parmar, Mukesh Kumar Maurya and Avinash Mishra (2023). Estimate Resources used, Cost Return Structure and Various Cost concept of Tea in Kangra District, Himachal Pradesh. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 15(5): 708-713.'),(6689,'157','Effect of Weed Control Methods on Weed Dynamics and Productivity of Transplanted Rice (Oryza sativa L.) in Eastern Uttar Pradesh','Abhishek Mishra, Vaibhav Pandey, Vishuddha Nand, Digvijay Singh, \r\nVineet Kumar Shukla and Atish Yadav','Effect-of-Weed-Control-Methods-on-Weed-Dynamics-and-Productivity-of-Transplanted-Rice-(Oryza-sativa-L.)-in-Eastern-Uttar-Pradesh-Abhishek-Mishra-105.pdf','',1,'It is important to understand that weeds are unwanted, undesirable plants that absorb nutrients faster and in greater quantities than crops, resulting in the reduction of plant yields even at higher rates of fertilization. As a consequence, it is important that promising weed management approaches are developed to determine how to enhance rice productivity. Keeping in this view the present investigation, the experiment was conducted at Agronomy Research Farm of ANDUA&T, Kumarganj, Ayodhya (U.P.) during Kharif 2021. The experiment was laid out in Randomized Block design with three replications, viz., (Pretilachlor @1000 g ai ha-1 (PE), Pretilachlor @1000 g ai ha-1 (PE) + Bispyribac sodium @ 25g ai ha-1 (PoE), Pretilachlor @1000 g ai ha-1 (PE) + One hand weeding at 35 DAT, Bispyribac sodium @ 25g ai ha-1 (PoE), Bispyribac sodium @ 25g ai ha-1 (early PoE at 25 days) + One hand weeding at 45 DAT, Two Hand Weeding at 20 and 40 DAT, Weed free up to 60 days, Weedy check. Based on the results of the experiment, it was concluded that all the growth parameters and yield attributes were significantly affected by the different treatments used. It is clear from the scrutiny of the yield attribute data revealed that the weed free up to 60 days resulted significantly maximum value of growth, yield attributes and yields followed by two hand weeding at twenty and forty DAT. Among herbicides the Pretilachlor @1000 gram ai ha-1 (PE) + One hand weeding at 35DAT having higher growth, yield attributes and yield with other rest herbicides.','Herbicides, Pre and post-emergence, Rice, Transplanted, Weeds, Weed control efficiency, Weed index','Weed free up to 60 days was most effective to control of all sorts of weeds, growth and yield of transplanted rice followed by Pretilachlor @1000 g ai ha-1 (PE) + One hand weeding at 35 DAT.','-','Abhishek Mishra, Vaibhav Pandey, Vishuddha Nand, Digvijay Singh, Vineet Kumar Shukla and Atish Yadav (2023). Effect of Weed Control Methods on Weed Dynamics and Productivity of Transplanted Rice (Oryza sativa L.) in Eastern Uttar Pradesh. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 15(5): 714-718.'),(6690,'157','In Silico Prediction of T-Cell and B-Cell Epitope in Mycobacterium Tuberculosis strain of H37Ra','Vaithilingam Krishnakumar, Rajesh Pandiyan and Velu Rajesh Kannan','In-Silico-Prediction-of-T-Cell-and-B-Cell-Epitope-in-Mycobacterium-Tuberculosis-strain-of-H37Ra-Velu-Rajesh-Kannan-106.pdf','',1,'Mycobacterium tuberculosis leads the top cause of death, still in 2021 reported by the World Health Organization (WHO). In the near days, chemotherapy also becomes ineffective due to the development of resistance. As the infection spreads through droplets and airborne, it is necessary to prevent it through herd immunity through vaccinations. Since 1921, BCG is the only vaccine for tuberculosis, the BCG vaccine may be effective in children, but it is not protective even in younger adults. Since MDR-TB has been growing at a high rate, the treatment is becoming ineffective due to its wide range of resistance. The strains could also not respond to the immune system in TB individuals with lower immunity. Hence, new strategies and techniques have been created for the development of new vaccines. The virulent protein Ag85B from the strain H37Ra was selected as a vaccine candidate for the development of an effective vaccine. The protein sequence was retrieved from NCBI Genbank and the sequence was subjected for its antigenicity and allergenicity by in-silico software tools. The sequence was then predicted for its major histocompatibility complex against the human allele HLA-A*01:01 by the ProPred analyzing tool. The B-cell and T- cell epitope was then identified for probable antigens. Hence to conclude that Ag85B was found to be strong structural, desirable physiochemical and potential immunological attributes for the development of remarkable humoral and cellular immune response. Henceforth, Antigen 85B should be a potential lead candidate for in vitro and in vivo evaluations against Mtb.','Mycobacterium tuberculosis, T-Cell, B-Cell, Vaccine, Histocompatibility, Epitope, Ag85B','The Antigen 85B of Mycobacterium tuberculosis is found to be the most predominant protein in virulent action. Thereby, the protein was selected as an antigenic molecule as a vaccine candidate. The protein was analyzed by various online tools to identify its antigenicity and Allergenicity, revealing that it is non-allergic for the allele HLA-A*01:01. The T cell and B cell epitopes were also predicted by CTL Pred and BC Pred software to obtain the sequence RPGLPVEYL has probable antigenic property with the score value of 0.5177 among 285 amino acid residues. The MHC Pred software concluded that low IC50 was found in the allele DRB*0101. Overall, the present finding is concluding that the selected Antigen 85B showed strong structural, desirable physiochemical and potential immunological attributes that can lead to the development of remarkable humoral and cellular immune responses. Henceforth, Antigen 85B should be a potential lead candidate for in vitro and in vivo evaluations against Mtb.','-','Vaithilingam Krishnakumar, Rajesh Pandiyan and Velu Rajesh Kannan (2023). In Silico Prediction of T-Cell and B-Cell Epitope in Mycobacterium Tuberculosis strain of H37Ra. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 15(5): 719-724.'),(6691,'157','Assessment of Growth Rate and Photosynthetic Pigments of Saccharum officinarum L. Plantlet under Polluted Area','Deepak Singh, Ishwar Singh and Manoj Kumar Sharma','Assessment-of-Growth-Rate-and-Photosynthetic-Pigments-of-Saccharum-officinarum-L.-Plantlet-under-Polluted-Area-Manoj-Kumar-Sharma-107.pdf','',1,'Saccharum officinarum L. is a valuable crop that produced high content sugar molecules. As we see, traffic and air pollution increased day by day due to anthropogenic activities. In this research record, the effect of traffic air pollution on crop vegetation was investigated. We have chosen traffic road and non-traffic road (control) sites for the comparative study of crop samples. At the traffic road site loss of growth and photosynthetic pigments in the crop, and chlorosis and scars are found on leaves and stems. These are the effect of obnoxious gaseous factors which had been found in multiplied stages within the traffic road site. We observed in our findings, growth terms values (thickness: 41.00-35.66, length: 50.6- 42.02 and weight: 44.49-36.01), the photosynthetic pigments values (chlorophyll ‘a’ 5.84-5.56, chlorophyll ‘b’ 5.90-4.79, total chlorophyll 11.28-9.93 and carotenoid 4.47-3.14) there was a statistically significant mean difference between control and traffic road sites. Crop vegetation growing in traffic road sites showed reduced growth, and photosynthetic pigments quality and air quality is found to be poor. This study portrays a clear view of the unfavourable results of traffic air pollutants on crop vegetation. Physiological and biochemical results quality show variation in crop vegetation on traffic roads and control sites.','Saccharum officinarum L., Photosynthetic pigments, Obnoxious, Pollution','The findings of this research work demonstrated that traffic air pollution caused by various forms of automobile traffic congestion has an adverse effect. Traffic air pollution has become life-threatening, from this research record, it was found that some gases (CO, NO, NO2, SO2, O3, and UV) harm crops and air quality is found to be poor. Showing the impact of the under-traffic road air pollution on growth qualities and photosynthetic pigments along with changes in the of S. officinarum L., as we know, traffic air pollution is responsible for the growth qualities and photosynthetic pigments of crops.','-','Deepak Singh, Ishwar Singh and Manoj Kumar Sharma (2023). Assessment of Growth Rate and Photosynthetic Pigments of Saccharum officinarum L. Plantlet under Polluted Area. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 15(5): 725-730.'),(6692,'157','Prevalence and Detection of viruses Associated with Mosaic Disease of Sugarcane in Andhra Pradesh','G. Vamsi Krishna, V. Manoj Kumar, P. Kishore Varma, B. Bhavani and G. Vijaya Kumar','Prevalence-and-Detection-of-viruses-Associated-with-Mosaic-Disease-of-Sugarcane-in-Andhra-Pradesh-G-Vamsi-Krishna-108.pdf','',1,'Sugarcane represents third largest crop in terms of value next to rice and wheat in India and it is one of the most important commercial crops cultivated worldwide for products like white sugar, bagasse and ethanol. Among the diseases of sugarcane, mosaic disease is one of the most destructive viral disease which imposes serious threat to sugarcane cultivation by reducing both sugar content and cane yield. Since diagnosis is very crucial for effective management of the disease, a comprehensive and systematic survey was conducted in 126 fields belonging to 126 villages spread over 14 districts of Andhra Pradesh, India for assessing the incidence of mosaic disease. Mosaic incidence varied across the districts in the range of 14 % to 90 % in commercial varieties. Highest mosaic incidence was observed in Anakapalle district (66.64 per cent (%)) followed by Krishna district (64.66 %) and least incidence was observed in Alluri Sitharamaraju district (17.08 %) followed by Parvathipuram Manyam district (31.77 %). Almost all the varieties grown in Andhra Pradesh viz., 2009A 107, 87A 298, 2003V 46, Co 86032, 81V 48, 2015A 311, Si-2010-123, Si-2010-309, ROC-16 and VCF-517 were affected, but percent incidence varied from genotype to genotype, location, stage of the crop and type of the crop. Symptoms varied from cultivar to cultivar. Symptomatic sugarcane leaf samples were collected, total RNA was isolated from infected samples and RT-PCR assays were performed using Sugarcane mosaic virus and Sugarcane streak mosaic virus primers. Samples were found to be infected by SCMV and SCSMV showed the expected amplicon size of 891bp and 690 respectively during RT-PCR.','Prevalence, Mosaic, Incidence, RT-PCR. SCMV and SCSMV','The study serves as a comprehensive report to date on the mosaic disease incidence in sugarcane growing regions of Andhra Pradesh. The findings of this study shows that SCMV and SCSMV infections have occurred in sugarcane fields in Andhra Pradesh and has spread to new areas, primarily through infected setts, vectors and planting material. Some of the cultivars were found more susceptible to mosaic compared to others. This study emphasize the importance of SCMV and SCSMV indexing in planting material prior to distribution of seed setts to the farmers by the sugar industries of Andhra Pradesh which will ensure healthy planting material to the growers leading to higher sugarcane productivity and cane quality.','-','G. Vamsi Krishna, V. Manoj Kumar, P. Kishore Varma, B..Bhavani and G. Vijaya Kumar (2023). Prevalence and Detection of viruses Associated with Mosaic Disease of Sugarcane in Andhra Pradesh. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 15(5): 731-737.'),(6693,'157','Effect of Various Strength Training modalities and Combination of \r\nSaq-Plyometric Training Packages on Lower Body Circumferences of Senior Soccer Players\r\n','Konark Roy and Dulal Debnath','Effect of Various Strength Training modalities and Combination of Saq-Plyometric Training Packages on Lower Body Circumferences of Senior Soccer Players-Konark Roy-109.pdf','',1,'The role of strength training modality is pivotal. However, it is not used extensively in sports. In addition, there are controversial views found as to which type of training is more effective. Some have stated these training cannot monitor intensity (American College of Sports Medicine, 1995). The aim of the study was to ascertain the impact of 12 weeks of various strength training modalities, combined with plyometric and SAQ training packages, on the chosen lower body circumferences of soccer players. 120 intercollegiate male soccer players (N=120) were selected for this study utilizing the non-probability sampling method known as purposive sampling. The subjects ranged in age from 18 to 25. Three equal groups of 40 each were formed out of the chosen subjects. Group I (N1=40) served as the control group, Group II (N2=40) received strength training, and Group III (N3=40) received training that combined SAQ and plyometrics. Lower body circumference was the chosen dependent variable for this study, and the training approach was chosen as the independent variable. The acquired data were statistically analysed using an ANCOVA to determine whether there were any significant differences between the groups. To examine the level of significant difference between groups, if any, the 0.05 level of confidence was fixed. The study revealed that the plyometric and SAQ training combined with 12 weeks of strength training improved thigh and calf circumference more than the control group.','SAQ, Plyometric Training, Strength Training, Calf, Thigh, Circumference and Soccer','The aim of the study was to determine the effect of 12 weeks selected training methodology i.e., various strength training modalities, combination of plyometric and SAQ training packages on soccer players selected lower body circumferences. For this purpose, 120 intercollegiate male soccer players (N = 120) were chosen using a non-probability sampling technique called purposive sampling. Age ranges of subjects was 18 to 25 years. The selected subjects were divided into three equal groups consisting of 40 each. Group I (N1=40) acted as control group as not given any sort of specific training but underwent traditional soccer training. Group II (N2=40) underwent Strength Training and Group III (N3=40) underwent combination of SAQ and Plyo metric training. For this study pre-post design was employed for selected dependent variables i.e., lower body circumference and independent variables was selected training methodology. The collected data were analysed statistically through analysis of covariance (ANCOVA) to find out the significance difference, if any between the groups. The 0.05 level of confidence was fixed to test the level of significance difference, if any between groups. The results of this study suggest that 12 weeks of strength training when compared to control and combination of plyometric and SAQ training showed greater improvement for thigh and calf circumference.','-','Konark Roy and Dulal Debnath (2023). Effect of Various Strength Training modalities and Combination of Saq-Plyometric Training Packages on Lower Body Circumferences of Senior Soccer Players. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 15(5): 738-743.'),(6694,'157','Green Synthesis and Characterization of Silver Nanoparticles using Neem (Azadirachta indica) Leaf extract','Jervin Ananth S. R., Manjula B. S., Sajan Kurien, Muthu Vijayan Enoch I. V. and B. Madhumitha','Green-Synthesis-and-Characterization-of-Silver-Nanoparticles-using-Neem-(Azadirachta-indica)--Leaf-extract-Jervin-Ananth-SR-110.pdf','',1,'The development of eco-friendly and reliable processes for manufacturing silver nanoparticles (AgNPs) represents a significant milestone in the realm of nanotechnology. Green synthesis is preferable to traditional chemical synthesis because it is less expensive, produces less pollution and improves environmental and human health safety. Hence, the synthesis of silver nanoparticles using neem (Azadirachta indica) leaf extract as a reducing and capping agent was carried out in the present study. The synthesis of silver nanoparticles was achieved by treating aqueous silver nitrate solution with neem leaf extract under controlled conditions. The reduction of silver ions to silver nanoparticles was confirmed by observing a change in color from pale yellow to brownish-black, indicating the formation of AgNPs. The synthesized nanoparticles were characterized using various techniques such as UV-visible spectroscopy, X-ray diffraction (XRD), and scanning electron microscopy (SEM). The UV-Vis absorption spectrum revealed a distinct absorption band centered at 460 nm, indicative of the characteristic surface plasmon resonance of the silver nanoparticles. Furthermore, the SEM image provided evidence of their mild agglomerated spherical shape. XRD confirms the crystalline nature of the synthesized nanoparticles with sharp peaks at various degrees at 38.20, 32.30, and 46.20. The stability of the material was confirmed with Zeta potential at the value of -4.02 mV. The characterization results demonstrate the successful formation of silver nanoparticles with desired properties. The synthesized AgNPs hold great potential for various applications such as catalysis, antimicrobial agents, and sensor development.','Green synthesis, Neem leaf extract, Silver nanoparticles, Scanning Electron Microscopy, UV-Visible spectrophotometer, Zeta potential','Silver nanoparticles were successfully synthesized using a neem leaf extract in the presence of AgNO3 and subsequently characterized using various analytical techniques. UV-Visible spectroscopy revealed a distinct color change of the solution from yellow to brown, providing confirmation of the successful synthesis of silver nanoparticles. The UV-Visible spectrum exhibited a significant peak widening at 460 nm, further supporting the presence of synthesized nanoparticles. Scanning Electron Microscope (SEM) analysis unveiled the morphology of the nanoparticles, demonstrating a mild agglomeration and a spherical shape. X-Ray Diffraction (XRD) analysis confirmed the crystalline nature of the synthesized nanoparticles. Lastly, Zeta Potential analysis revealed the stability of the material, with a measured value of -4.02 mV, indicating a near-neutral surface charge. Collectively, these characterizations validate the successful synthesis of silver nanoparticles using neem leaf extract and provide valuable insights into their optical, morphological, crystalline, and surface charge properties.','-','Jervin Ananth S. R., Manjula B. S., Sajan Kurien, Muthu Vijayan Enoch I. V. and B. Madhumitha (2023). Green synthesis and characterization of silver nanoparticles using neem (Azadirachta indica) leaf extract. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 15(5): 744-748.'),(6695,'157','Early Maturing Pigeon Pea (Cajanus cajan L.) Genotypes’ Genetic Progress, Heritability, and Variability Estimation','Namita Borah, Akashi Sarma, Debojit Sarma and Abhilash Bhattacharjee','Early-Maturing-Pigeon-Pea-(Cajanus-cajan-L.)-Genotypes’-Genetic-Progress,-Heritability,-and-Variability-Estimation-Namita-Borah-111.pdf','',1,'The experiment was conducted to examine the twenty-one genotypes\' morphological variability for yield and earliness. The genotypes comprised nineteen from ICRISAT, Hyderabad, and two from Biswanath Chariali College of Agriculture, Assam Agricultural University. A randomized block design (RBD) was used with three replications, conducted at ICR Farm, Assam Agricultural University, during the 2018–19 Kharif season. Fourteen quantitative attributes or characteristics were monitored and recorded. Significant heterogeneity was seen in each attribute within the evaluation. High PCV values of the studied traits suggest the role of the environment. The hundred seed weight was found to have the highest phenotypic and genotypic coefficients of variation (PCV and GCV), followed by pods per plant, clusters per plant, harvest index, branches per plant, and seed yield per plant. Days to 50% flowering exhibited strong heritability with moderate genetic advance, indicating preponderance additive gene effects. Whilst seeds per pod and branches per plant recorded the lowest heritability coupled with a low genetic advance which suggests the presence of non-additive gene effects. ICP 15011, ICP 14927, ICP 15312, ICP 11610, ICP 11599, ICP 10920, and ICP 11639 are a few early maturing genotypes that demonstrated good performance for most of the significant quantitative attributes, as per the mean genotype performance for yield-related attributing traits. In Assam, most of the varieties are long duration and, therefore winter crops cannot be cultivated as late sowing as it results in poor yield. There is a need to breed for lines with reduced vegetative growth and higher per-day productivity. Hence in the present study, an effort has been made to study morphological variability for earliness and yield in twenty-one pigeon pea genotypes to identify diverse parents for a future breeding program suitable for the agro-climatic conditions of Assam.','Cajanus cajan L., Variability, Early maturity, Heritability, Genetic advance, coefficients of variation, Quantitative traits','The genotypes ICP 15011, ICP 14927, ICP 15312, ICP 11610, ICP 11599, ICP 10920, and ICP 11639 performed well for different quantitative characteristics and were also early maturing genotypes. Among them, ICP 15011 showed the highest seed yield and regarding early maturity, ICP 14927 was the earliest maturing genotype.','-','Namita Borah, Akashi Sarma, Debojit Sarma and Abhilash Bhattacharjee (2023). Early Maturing Pigeon Pea (Cajanus cajan L.) Genotypes’ Genetic Progress, Heritability, and Variability Estimation. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 15(5): 749-754.'),(6696,'157','Studies on Green Synthesis of Silver Nanoparticles using Aqueous Leaf extract of Sauropus androgynus and their Antibacterial Activity','Krishna Prasanth Y., Vijayakumar R.M., Madhumitha B., Jenita Thinakaran and Umesh Chimmalagi','Studies-on-Green-Synthesis-of-Silver-Nanoparticles-using-Aqueous-Leaf-extract-of-Sauropus-androgynus-and-their-Antibacterial-Activity-Krishna-Prasanth-Y-112.pdf','',1,'The synthesis of nanoparticles using environmentally friendly methods has attracted significant interest owing to their versatile applications and the need for sustainable approaches. Silver nanoparticles (SNPs) have emerged as a popular choice owing to their unique properties; however, they have drawbacks due to the involvement of hazardous chemicals. This study contributes to the field of environmentally friendly nanoparticle synthesis using Sauropus androgynus leaf extract as a natural reducing agent. This approach eliminates the use of hazardous chemicals that are typically involved in traditional synthesis methods, making it a more sustainable alternative. SEM, zeta potential analysis, UV-visible spectroscopy, and X-ray diffraction (XRD) were used to characterize the synthesized nanoparticles. The absorption peak at 420 nm in the UV-visible spectrum is evidence of the presence of SNPs. Spherical nanoparticles with an average size of 219 nm were discovered using SEM. An examination of zeta potentials revealed a negative zeta potential of -11.1 mV, demonstrating the stability of the nanoparticles. The crystalline nature of the nanoparticles was confirmed by X-ray diffraction (XRD) measurements, with an average crystalline size of 16.23 nm. The antibacterial activity of the synthesized nanoparticles was evaluated against both gram-positive (Bacillus subtilis) and gram-negative (Escherichia coli) bacteria at different concentrations. The results showed that Sauropus androgynus leaf extract-mediated SNP had antibacterial activity, and the extent of inhibition zones was concentration-dependent. This study addresses the challenges associated with green synthesis of SNPs and provides valuable insights into their characterization and antibacterial activity.','Sauropus androgynus, Bacillus subtilis, Escherichia coli, silver nanoparticles','In conclusion, this study successfully demonstrated the environmentally friendly synthesis of silver nanoparticles (SNPs) using Sauropus androgynus leaf extract as a natural reducing and capping agent. The synthesized nanoparticles exhibited favorable physicochemical properties, including size, shape, stability, and crystallinity, which are crucial for their potential applications in various fields. Furthermore, the antibacterial activity of the silver nanoparticles was evaluated against two common bacterial strains, namely B. subtilis and E. coli. The results revealed significant inhibitory effects, indicating the potential of these nanoparticles for antimicrobial applications. The inhibition zones observed were larger at higher concentrations, suggesting a concentration-dependent antibacterial activity. Interestingly, the silver nanoparticles exhibited more pronounced activity against E. coli compared to B. subtilis. These findings underscore the promising prospects of utilizing Sauropus androgynus leaf extract-mediated silver nanoparticles as an effective antimicrobial agent. The green synthesis approach utilized in this study provides a sustainable and eco-friendly alternative to conventional methods involving hazardous chemicals.','-','Krishna Prasanth Y., Vijayakumar R.M., Madhumitha B., Jenita Thinakaran and Umesh Chimmalagi (2023). Studies on Green Synthesis of Silver Nanoparticles using Aqueous Leaf extract of Sauropus androgynus and their Antibacterial Activity. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 15(5): 755-759.'),(6697,'157','Effect of Integrated Management on Ascochyta Blight and Yield of Pea Crop','Ravi Kumar, Prashant Mishra, Ramji Singh, Kamal Khilari, Gopal Singh, Rajendra Singh, Ajita Singh and Abhinav Tiwari ','Effect-of-Integrated-Management-on-Ascochyta-Blight-and-Yield-of-Pea-Crop-Ravi-Kumar-113.pdf','',1,'Ascochyta blight caused by Ascochyta pisi Lib. is an important disease of pea. It is a worldwide disease which is appears on leaves, stems and pods of pea and significant economic yield losses. Pea is annual plants with a life cycle of one year, it is a cool-season crop grown in many parts of the world. The total area, production and productivity of pea in India in 2017-18 was 540.48 thousand hectare, 5422.14 thousand MT/ha and 10.0 MT/ha respectively. In present investigation bioagents, biochemicals and fungicides were tested for management of Ascochyta blight disease of pea under field condition. these bioagents, biochemicals and fungicides were used against Ascochyta blight and yield of pea crop during 2021-22 and 2022-23, significant maximum reduction in disease incidence (11.07%), disease severity (4.80%) and increase yield (24.64 qt/ha.) were recorded with Seed Treatment with Thiram @ 3g/ kg seed + two foliar spray of Propiconazole 25%EC @ 0.1% at 45DAS and 75DAS. This was followed by Trichoderma harzianum, Trichoderma viride, Pseudomonas fluorescens, Humic acid, Salicylic acid, Jasmonic acid, Chlorothalonil, Propiconazole and Hexzaconazole treatments that significantly management Whereas, minimum reduced disease incidence (38.21%), disease severity (15.99%) and increase yield (11.59 qt/ha.) was recorded with two foliar spray of Copper oxychloride 50%WP @ 0.25% at 45DAS and 75DAS compared to untreated (61.11%) disease incidence, (32.50%) disease severity and (9.27 qt/ha.) increase yield were found effective for the control of disease and gave higher yield. ','Ascochyta blight, bioagents, biochemicals, Humic acid, Salicylic acid Jasmonic acid and fungicides','In field experiment, thiram @ 3g as seed treatment was found most effective for reduction of disease incidence, disease severity and enhance the yield and quality of pea crop thereby suggest that farmers may use thiram @ 3g as seed treatment for the management of ascochyta blight disease and enhance the yield and quality of pea crop while alternative of chemical and biochemicals farmers may also use Trichoderma harzianum, Trichoderma viride, Pseudomonas fluorescens, Humic acid, Salicylic acid, Jasmonic acid, Chlorothalonil, Propiconazole and Hexzaconazole treatments that significantly management.','-','Ravi Kumar, Prashant Mishra, Ramji Singh, Kamal Khilari, Gopal Singh, Rajendra Singh, Ajita Singh and Abhinav Tiwari (2023). Effect of Integrated Management on Ascochyta Blight and Yield of Pea Crop. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 15(5): 760-764.'),(6698,'157','Exploring Variability, Heritability and Genetic Advances: Case study in Okra [Abelmoschus esculentus (L.) Moench] through Four Distinct Crosses in F2','Parth Bagadiya, Priya Patel, C.G. Intwala, Jwala Pranati, Vidyut Balar','Exploring-Variability,-Heritability-and-Genetic-Advances-Case-study-in-Okra-[Abelmoschus-esculentus-(L.)-Moench]-through-Four-Distinct-Crosses-in-F2-Parth-Bagadiya-114.pdf','',1,'The goal of the current research was to investigate the effects of different quantitative traits on fruit yield in F2 populations of okra, including their genotypic and phenotypic coefficients, broad sense heritability, and genetic progress. This research material contained four crosses viz., first cross (Arka Abhay × NOL 17-6), second cross (Arka Anamika × NOL 17-6), third cross (Arka Abhay × NOL 18-02) and fourth cross (AOL 10-22 × NOL 18-02) together with their parents, F1 and the segregating F2 population. Due to the involvement of the segregating F2 generation, the crosses were examined in a non-replicated manner. Twelve characters with varying degrees of variability were observed. The number of branches per plant at final harvest, followed by fruit yield per plant, internodal length, fruits per plant, and plant height at final harvest, were found to have the highest magnitudes of PCV and GCV. The study encountered various difficulties, including the difficulty of reliably quantifying trait heritability due to environmental factors, as well as the complexity of analysing the genetic improvements. Despite these obstacles, the research gives vital insights into the variability and genetic potential of Okra, helping to develop breeding programmes for this crop. Most of the traits in the four crossings showed substantial genetic advancement along with high heritability.','Genetic advance, Heritability, GCV, PCV, Okra, Variability','The results of the current study showed that the PCV was larger than the matching GCV for all of the characteristics, suggesting that there may be some degree of genotype-environment interaction. Strong genetic advance as a percentage of mean and high heritability estimations gives us idea about the governance of additive genes for the characters. It also suggests selection would be rewarding for high yielding genotypes as those characters mentioned above were governed by additive genes. Thus, we should focus on those yield attributing characters which is giving higher response of high estimates of heritability along with high genetic advance.','-','Parth Bagadiya, Priya Patel, C.G. Intwala, Jwala Pranati and Vidyut Balar (2023). Exploring Variability, Heritability and Genetic Advances: Case study in Okra [Abelmoschus esculentus (L.) Moench] through Four Distinct Crosses in F2. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 15(5): 765-772.'),(6699,'157','Impact of Parboiling conditions on Milling Quality and the Nutritional Value of Popular Rice varieties of Telangana','Lakshmiprasanna Kata, Aparna Kuna, Naresh P. and Zubeda Sohan','Impact-of-Parboiling-conditions-on-Milling-Quality-and-the-Nutritional-Value-of-Popular-Rice-varieties-of-Telangana-Lakshmiprasanna-Kata-115.pdf','',1,'The practice of parboiling rice is not new and has been done for a long time in India. However, the procedure of parboiling is not uniformly carried out and the method used varies with the area as well as the knowledge of the processor, resulting in variation in the quality of grain received after the process. This necessitated the need for optimization of the parboiling conditions. So, in the present study locally most cultivated rice varieties (BPT 5204, MTU 1010, RNR 15048, KNM 118 and JGL 18047) in Telangana were subjected to parboiling treatment at three different temperatures (90°C, 100°C, 110°C) and durations (15, 20, 25 minutes). The treatment results indicated that parboiling at 900C temperature for 15 min found to have better head rice recovery (72.29 %) compared to the other two temperatures (65.60 % @100°C and 62.00 % @ 110°C) and durations (64.20 % @ 20 min & 63.20 % @ 25 min). The result of the present study clearly showed that parboiling with high steaming temperature and steaming time decreased the head rice yield, as it resulted in breakage of pericarp of paddy seed while parboiling process. The present study also investigated the effect of parboiling on milling quality and nutritional parameters of these five varieties. Milling quality parameters like percent milling recovery and Head Rice Recovery increased with parboiling and brokens percent decreased significantly. Parboiling reduced the nutritional parameters like crude protein content and crude fat content and increased the other parameters like ash and crude fiber content. Parboiling had significant effect on the grain breadth but its effect on grain length was not significant. Parboiling also recorded less L/B ratio (3.25) compared to non-parboiled rice (3.35). Therefore, it can be concluded that parboiling process at a steaming temperature of 900C and duration of 15 minutes significantly increases the milling yield, HRR and reduces the breakages while retaining the minerals and crude fiber content which aid in the health of consumers. ','Rice, Parboiling, Steaming, Head rice recovery, Nutritional parameters','Based on the findings of this study, increasing the temperature of steaming beyond 90°C and increasing the steaming duration beyond 15 minutes during the parboiling process had a negative impact on milling quality parameters such as milling recovery percent and head rice recovery. Among the five varieties evaluated, BPT 5204 and RNR 15048 had higher HRR values than the others. Regardless of the type, parboiling raised the HRR and decreased the brokens %. The parboiling procedure enhanced not only the milling qualities of the grain but also the total mineral content, i.e., the ash content of the grain. However, parboiled grain had a lower fat level than unparboiled grain. It can be concluded that parboiling treatment can be effectively used to these five popular Telangana varieties to improve milling yield and nutritional content.','-','Lakshmiprasanna Kata, Aparna Kuna, Naresh P. and Zubeda Sohan (2023). Impact of Parboiling conditions on Milling Quality and the Nutritional Value of Popular Rice varieties of Telangana. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 15(5): 773-778.'),(6700,'157','Animal Husbandry Decision-Making Patterns of Women in Agriculture','Ankita Pandey and D.P. Rai','Animal-Husbandry-Decision-Making-Patterns-of-Women-in-Agriculture-Ankita-Pandey-116.pdf','',1,'Rural women are crucial decision-makers when it comes to animal husbandry techniques. It was deemed worthwhile to research rural women\'s contributions to animal husbandry and their participation in decisions on animal husbandry techniques. This research paper explores the crucial role of rural women in decision-making related to animal husbandry. The research is based on a sample of 340 respondents from Dewas district, Madhya Pradesh, India, and highlights the variations in decision making across different practices viz. breeding, feeding, fodder production, management practices, milk products making, marketing, housing facility, health care practices, daily practices, financial practices and profit utilization. This knowledge can guide policymakers and stakeholders in designing interventions and strategies to enhance the involvement of rural women and promote their active participation in decision-making processes. The active involvement of rural women in decision-making processes related to animal husbandry is critical for sustainable agricultural practices and rural development, and this research provides valuable insights to facilitate the same.','Animal husbandry, Breeding, Decision-making, Economics, Marketing','This research paper highlights the crucial role played by women in animal husbandry practices in rural areas and sheds light on their decision-making patterns related to animal health, breeding, feeding, and marketing. The findings reveal that women make independent decisions in various aspects of animal husbandry practices such as breeding programs, selection of breeds, and selection of adults. However, their decision-making is limited in some areas such as pregnancy diagnosis and artificial insemination, where consultation with their husband or family members is common. The results indicates that enhancing women\'s participation in decision-making processes in animal husbandry activities can lead to improved agricultural productivity, increased economic growth, and enhanced food security. Therefore, gender-sensitive policies and interventions are required to support and empower women in agriculture by providing them with access to information, technology, markets, and addressing social norms that limit their participation in decision-making processes. ','-','Ankita Pandey and D.P. Rai (2023). Animal Husbandry Decision-Making Patterns of Women in Agriculture. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 15(5): 779-785.'),(6701,'157','Analytical Method Development and Validation of Gliclazide using RP-HPLC from Pharmaceutical Dosage Form','Shweta H. Shahare, Dipti G. Phadtare, Hitesh V. Shahare, Yunus N. Ansari, Bhavesh B. Amrute, Sagar S. Vidhate and Sachin N. Kapse','Analytical-Method-Development-and-Validation-of-Gliclazide-using-RP-HPLC-from-Pharmaceutical-Dosage-Form-Hitesh-V-Shahare-117.pdf','',1,'Elevated sugar levels brought on by a lack of insulin are a defining feature of diabetes mellitus. The sulfonylurea class of insulin secretagogues, which includes gliclazide, is a second-generation hypoglycemic drug that works by boosting insulin secretion from beta cells in the pancreatic Islet of Langerhans. Developing a selective method for accurate measurement in pharmaceutical dosage forms is challenging due to potential interference from excipients. This study gives valuable insights into optimizing chromatographic parameters, including mobile phase composition, and pH, to enhance the separation, resolution, and peak symmetry of Gliclazide. The procedure was designed utilizing a 4.6 mm × 250 mm, 5 Hypersil OSD C18 column at 25 °C, 1.0 mL/min flow rate, 20 L volume, and a run time of 15 minutes at a wavelength of 228 nm with phosphate buffer: Acetonitrile (10:90 v/v) maintained at pH3 as the mobile phase. System appropriateness, specificity, precision (system and technique), accuracy, linearity, ruggedness, robustness, the limit of detection (LOD), and the limit of quantitation (LOQ) were all evaluated for the developed method. The validated approach can be utilized for the regular analysis of Gliclazide from pharmaceutical dosage forms because it was discovered to be quick, accurate, sensitive, and precise.','Gliclazide, Diabetes, Insulin, Validation, RP-HPLC','In conclusion, the development and validation of a reverse phase RP-HPLC method for the estimation of Gliclazide in pharmaceutical dosage form have been successfully achieved. This method provides a simple and accurate alternative to existing methods. The method demonstrated high accuracy and sensitivity in the estimation of Gliclazide, which is an important type 2 anti-diabetic drug (Sabhyatha et al., 2022). The method developed uses HPLC Schimadzu Model LC-2030 PLUS (IND)with a PDA detector made up of a Thermo - Hypersil ODS, C18, 4.6 mm × 250 mm. This method can be used for the analysis of both Gliclazide in raw materials and finished products. The reverse phase RP-HPLC method developed in this study offers a simple and effective means of estimating Gliclazide in pharmaceutical dosage form with high accuracy and sensitivity. Moreover, this method presents an affordable and less complex alternative to traditional methods. Furthermore, the method developed can be used for the analysis of both Gliclazide in raw materials and finished products.','-','Shweta H. Shahare, Dipti G. Phadtare, Hitesh V. Shahare, Yunus N. Ansari, Bhavesh B. Amrute, Sagar S. Vidhate and Sachin N. Kapse (2023). Analytical Method Development and Validation of Gliclazide using RP-HPLC from Pharmaceutical Dosage Form. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 15(5): 786-792.'),(6702,'157','Menstrual Hygiene Practices and its Management among Female Students','Heena Qadir, Javid Ahmad Malik, Nazar Ul Islam and Khursheed Ahmad Wani','Menstrual-Hygiene-Practices-and-its-Management-among-Female-Students-Khursheed-Ahmad-Wani-118.pdf','',1,'The objective of the present paper was to investigate the menstrual hygiene practices and its management among female Students in Union Territory of Jammu & Kashmir. A sample of 403 female students from different colleges was selected for the present study. An online questionnaire was circulated among the students with different subsections. The responses revealed that half of the students are aware about the menstruation and its management practices. Ignorance, misconceptions, unsafe practices, and illiteracy of the mother and child regarding menstruation are the root causes of many problems. The students have shifted from traditional to modern practices in managing menstrual blood. there is a need to intervene and educate the female students about menstruation hygiene in Degree Colleges of Jammu and Kashmir. It was revealed education will play a pivotal role.','The objective of the present paper was to investigate the menstrual hygiene practices and its management among female Students in Union Territory of Jammu & Kashmir. A sample of 403 female students from different colleges was selected for the present study. An online questionnaire was circulated among the students with different subsections. The responses revealed that half of the students are aware about the menstruation and its management practices. Ignorance, misconceptions, unsafe practices, and illiteracy of the mother and child regarding menstruation are the root causes of many problems. The students have shifted from traditional to modern practices in managing menstrual blood. there is a need to intervene and educate the female students about menstruation hygiene in Degree Colleges of Jammu and Kashmir. It was revealed education will play a pivotal role.\r\nMenstruation, Sanitation, Hygiene, Awareness, Sanitary pads\r\n','1. All the girls have basic information about menstruation and believed it to be a physiological process. They believed that it is a normal process for women and if it will not happen, it means woman is abnormal. Most of the respondents have shared the first experience of menstruation either with sisters, or friends of mothers. No one has shared it with the male relatives or male friends.\r\n2. Majority opined that the source of menstrual blood is uterus but a good number also said that the source is vagina. Majority of respondents have 28 days of duration of menstrual blood with bleeding phase of 3-7 days with foul odour for which they would often feel embarrassed. However, half of the respondents believed that menstrual blood is unhygienic and other half said it is not unhygienic. \r\n3. None of the respondents has learned anything about the menstruation in college or in school. All the respondents hold the opinion that poor or good hygiene during menstruation has no relation with menstrual pain. Half of the respondents would share menstrual hygiene with close friends like what to eat and what not, how to reduce pain and whether to take a bath or not.\r\n4. Those who were reluctant in sharing menstrual related issues with fathers had multiple opinions like it needs to be kept secret, fear factor, it is shameful. But fathers do take care of it and then few ignore or few get extra eatables for daughters during the days of periods. All the girls share this process with mothers. All the interviewees didn’t shared menstruation related things with teachers. But if the bleeding happened all of a sudden in the school or in college, then they would ask for sanitary pads to teachers.\r\n5. All the respondents were using commercially made absorbent material/sanitary pads with popular brands like Wispher and Khatoon and soap and soap and water. Though they felt that those pads are very costly but we have to manage it. None of the respondents used reusable pads. Only three respondents reported that they would use cotton cloth in addition to commercially made sanitary pad just for the safety purpose and they will make it dry indoors in a private place.\r\n6. Respondents were changing pads once or twice and thrice. But majority were in 2-3 times. Majority of the respondents would clean their genitals during menstruation using both soap and water. Only 4 respondents were using only water. No respondent was taking bath during menstruation believing that it will cause pain or negatively affect the reproductive health or it will make the bleeding intense or recur. After the menstruation is over all used to take a mandatory bath using soap and water that had ritual significance also to restore the purity? Half of the respondents used to dispose used sanitary pads in open pits available in the villages at public places usually after wrapping in polythene. Other half would put in dustbins after wrapping in polythene which is later thrown in some far off open field.\r\n7. All the respondents were asking their fathers for money when they had to purchase sanitary pads but respondents would not let their fathers know that they have to purchase pads but would give some another excuse. Some respondents said that they would come to college during menstruation but majority would skip the school during first 2 days because of pain, heavy flow, no gender specific private toilets in college, afraid of staining and no proper disposal system. All the respondents reported that periods are painful especially the first 2 days.\r\n','-','Heena Qadir, Javid Ahmad Malik, Nazar Ul Islam and Khursheed Ahmad Wani (2023). Menstrual Hygiene Practices and its Management among Female Students. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 15(5): 793-799.'),(6703,'157','Standardization and Evaluation of Physico-Chemical and Sensory properties of Functional Acerola (West Indian Cherry) Beverages','Kirubha C., Kezia S., Satheeshan K.N., Ranganathan T.V. and Jenita Thinakaran','Standardization-and-Evaluation-of-Physico-Chemical-and-Sensory-properties-of-Functional-Acerola-(West-Indian-Cherry)-Beverages-Kirubha-C-119.pdf','',1,'Acerola, a tropical fruit rich in vitamin C and bioactive compounds, faces challenges in preservation and marketability due to its delicate nature. Only limited research has been carried out in this underutilized crop especially in the preparation of acerola-based beverages due to its very seasonal availability and its high perishability. This study attempted to develop and evaluate functional acerola beverages with enhanced physico-chemical and sensory properties. Ready-to-serve beverages were prepared by processing acerola with functional ingredients like aloe vera, chia seeds, ginger, cinnamon, and mint. The beverages were evaluated for their physico-chemical properties and sensory attributes. The results showed significant variations in total soluble solids, pH, titratable acidity, and ascorbic acid content among the different treatments. Sensory evaluation resulted in mint having better taste, aroma, texture and overall acceptability. The findings provide insights into the potential of combining acerola with different ingredients to create functional beverages with desirable sensory attributes, which can contribute to the utilization of this tropical fruit that offer health benefits to consumers.','Acerola, Vitamin C, RTS, Physico-chemical properties, sensory attributes','Awareness on the use of natural foods, health and nutritional supplements following the COVID-19 pandemic has created huge shift in food consumption behavior globally. This has resulted in development of numerous functional foods that improve health leading to several patents. The functional acerola- aloe vera RTS beverages will be a great additional and ideal option for the consumers as acerola are rich in vitamin C and other minerals and vitamins. Additionally, aloe vera, chia seed, ginger, cinnamon and mint help to create an antioxidant rich and refreshing drink. \r\nThe combination of these ingredients apart from enhancing taste also provides potential health benefits, such as anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties, making it a great choice for those looking to improve their overall well-being.\r\n','-','Kirubha C., Kezia S., Satheeshan K.N., Ranganathan T.V. and Jenita Thinakaran (2023). Standardization and Evaluation of Physico-Chemical and Sensory properties of Functional Acerola (West Indian Cherry) Beverages. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 15(5): 800-804.'),(6704,'34','Cardiovascular Disease Prediction using Machine Learning Techniques: A Review','Hardeep Singh and Sandeep Kaur','53 Cardiovascular Disease Prediction using Machine Learning Techniques A Review-Hardeep Singh.pdf','',1,'-','-','-','-','-'),(6705,'157','Ammoniacal and Nitrate Nitrogen Release Pattern from Biochar and Biochar Blended urea Fertilizers in Laterite Soil','Kavya S.R., Rani B., Aparna B. and Gladis R.','Ammoniacal-and-Nitrate-Nitrogen-Release-Pattern-from-Biochar-and-Biochar-Blended-urea-Fertilizers-in-Laterite-Soil-Kavya-SR-120.pdf','',1,'Recognition of biochar as a potential nutrient carrier to delay the release of nutrients in soils by blending with fertilizers is growing. However, the rate of release of mineralizable nitrogen from the biochar blended fertilizers in different soils is poorly understood. Hence a laboratory incubation study was conducted for 12 months with paddy husk biochar, biochar-bentonite (1:1), urea, biochar blended with urea fertilizer in different ratios (1:0.5, 1:1, 1:2) and biochar bentonite (1:1) blended with urea fertilizer in different ratios (1:0.5, 1:1, 1:2) including an absolute control to elucidate the ammoniacal and nitrate nitrogen release pattern in laterite soil. Paddy husk biochar was produced by the method of slow pyrolysis and biochar blended urea fertilizers by the adsorbent process. Bentonite clay, was also mixed with biochar in 1:1 ratio and blended with urea fertilizer to evaluate its influence on the nitrogen release pattern. Release of ammoniacal nitrogen from soil added with urea fertilizer was fast with maximum release at 30 days (199.73 mg kg-1), followed by a sharp decline and maintaining a low value till the end of incubation, whereas the increase in ammoniacal nitrogen release was gradual and sustained reaching a maximum at 180 days (209.07 mg kg-1) for soil + biochar: urea in 1:1. Nitrate nitrogen also followed the same trend with the maximum release observed for biochar: urea in 1:1 on the 180th day (225.9 mg kg-1). Nitrate nitrogen release showed higher values compared to ammoniacal nitrogen throughout the incubation period for all the treatments. Blending of urea with biochar/ biochar-bentonite prolonged the period for maximum nutrient release. Among the blended fertilizers, the content of both ammoniacal and nitrate nitrogen were comparatively less for biochar –bentonite blended urea fertilizers.','Biochar blended fertilizers, Ammoniacal and Nitrate Nitrogen, Laterite soil','A slow and steady release of nitrogen either as ammoniacal or nitrate was observed in laterite soil on blending biochar with urea compared to urea fertilizer alone. The rate of release of nitrate nitrogen was higher compared to ammoniacal nitrogen for all the treatments. Addition of bentonite to biochar resulted in slowing down of the release of both NH4+ -N and NO3-- N thus increasing the period of sustained release. The large surface area of biochar and abundant oxygen functional groups like carboxylic, hydroxyl and lactone groups on the surface of biochar- bentonite play a dominant role in adsorbing NH4+ and NO3−, ultimately reducing the N loss. Thus, biochar as a fertilizer carrier decelerates the release of nutrients into the soil and reduce fertilizer nutrient loss due to leaching, thereby increasing the efficiency of applied fertilizer.','-','Kavya S.R., Rani B., Aparna B. and Gladis R. (2023). Ammoniacal and Nitrate Nitrogen Release Pattern from Biochar and Biochar Blended urea Fertilizers in Laterite Soil. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 15(5): 805-810.'),(6706,'157','Impact of micronutrient application on growth and flowering of Dendrobium hybrid -‘Airy white’ in the Terai region of West Bengal','Chandra Kala Rai, Indrajit Sarkar, Soumen Maitra, Arpita Mandal Khan, Dibyendu Mukhopadhyay and Ashok Choudhury','Impact-of-micronutrient-application-on-growth-and-flowering-of-Dendrobium-hybrid--‘Airy-white’-in-the-Terai-region-of-West-Bengal-Indrajit-Sarkar-121.pdf','',1,'Dendrobium is a well-known tropical epiphytic orchid and one of the largest genera in the Orchidaceae family. It is grown professionally for the purpose of producing cut flowers. Recently, Dendrobium is gaining popularity as a potted plant for attractive foliage as well as flowers in hotels and restaurants for interior landscaping. Also stated that in orchids, growth, development and production were significantly influenced by micronutrients. Due to their significant nutritional support and ability to guarantee a greater harvest and return, micronutrients are steadily gaining popularity among flower growers. There are some challenges when studying orchid nutrition, including slow growth consistent with low nutritional demands and a lower response to additional nutrients compared to plants with rapid development such as annual crops. Another problem is that there are few studies on the interactions of nutrients and their perfect balance in this plant. Therefore, an experiment was carried out on the Dendrobium hybrid during the year 2019 to 2021 in the Instructional Farm of Floriculture, Medicinal and Aromatic Plants, UBKV, Pundibari, Coochbehar, West Bengal, India under medium cost polyhouse. The experiment was laid out in a Completely Randomized Design (CRD) which was replicated thrice having 13 treatments. The major nutrients namely NPK (19:19:19) @ 2g/l (foliar spray) at vegetative stage and NPK (0:52:34) from mono-potassium phosphate @ 1g/l at the flowering stage were sprayed at 7 days interval for all treatments. Micronutrients like Ca@ 500mg/l and 1000mg/l, Mg@ 50mg/l and 100mg/l, Fe@250mg/l and 500mg/l, Zn@ 250mg/l and 500mg/l, Cu@ 100mg/l and 200mg/l, as well as B@ 750mg/l and 150mg/l, were sprayed along with NPK at fortnightly interval as per the treatment except for control where only NPK was applied. The vegetative growth trend at the monthly interval was analysed using a completely randomized design (CRD). To observe the effect of nutrients in the year of cultivation, the data was analysed by using Factorial CRD in which years of cultivation (Y) and different treatments (T) were taken as factors. According to the findings, it was found that the treatment T2 [NPK + Ca (500 mg/l)] resulted in the maximum plant height (cm) in all the recorded months. The interval of leaf production (days) was minimum when treated with NPK + Ca @500 mg/l (T2). The maximum leaf length (cm) and breadth (cm) were found when the Dendrobium hybrid plants were sprayed with NPK + Zn @250 mg/l (T8). The minimum days taken for the first flowering after planting was also observed in the treatment T8[NPK + Zn (250 mg/l)]. For proper vegetative growth of Dendrobium, application of NPK (19:19:19) @ 2g/l at the vegetative stage once a week and NPK (0:52:34) from mono-potassium phosphate @ 1g/l at the flowering stage once a week along with Zn @ 250mg/l as spray may be recommended for cultivation under protected condition.','Dendrobium hybrid, plant nutrients, micronutrients, spraying','From this experiment, it might be concluded that under the environmental conditions of Cooch Behar, West Bengal, India, Calcium in the form of calcium sulphate (500 mg/l) and Zinc in the form of zinc sulphate (250 mg/l) applied as a foliar spray at an interval of 15 days along with NPK (19:19:19) @ 2g/l at the vegetative stage once in a week and (0:52:34) from mono-potassium phosphate @ 1g/l at the flowering stage once in a week is suitable for improving vegetative attributes and initiation of flowering of Dendrobium hybrid orchid. The standard as well as balanced nutrients including macro and micronutrient application enhance proper growth and development; as a result, it can increase the return of the farming communities who are engaged with the production of Dendrobium hybrid orchids. Further, the experiment can be carried out to observe the effect of nutrients on Dendrobium hybrid Airy White over its commercial production continuing up to 8 years from planting and also experiments can be carried out to see the effect of the interaction of different micronutrients on Dendrobium hybrid Airy White.','-','Chandra Kala Rai, Indrajit Sarkar, Soumen Maitra, Arpita Mandal Khan, Dibyendu Mukhopadhyay and Ashok Choudhury (2023). Impact of micronutrient application on growth and flowering of Dendrobium hybrid -‘Airy white’ in the Terai region of West Bengal. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 15(5): 811-819.'),(6707,'157','Allelopathic effects of Boerhavia difussa L. aqueous extracts on Soybean (Glycine max L.) Seed Germination, Shoot and Root Growth and Dry Matter Production','Nikam S.R., Namdas D.D. and Padale T.R.','Allelopathic-effects-of-Boerhavia-difussa-L.-aqueous-extracts-on-Soybean-(Glycine-max-L.)-Seed-Germination,-Shoot-and-Root-Growth-and-Dry-Matter-Production-Nikam-SR-122.pdf','',1,'Allelopathy is the production of chemical compounds by one plant to interfere with the growth and development of another plant. Allelochemicals often stimulate or restrict plant growth and have been proposed as a viable medication development technique for ecologically friendly biological weedicides. The discovery of plant materials with plentiful sources, affordable prices, and pronounced allelopathic effects will undoubtedly have significant ecological effects as the biological weedicide. Under laboratory conditions, soybean (Glycine max L.) seeds were treated with aqueous extracts of Boerhavia L. at concentrations of 5, 10, and 15% (w/v) to determine their effects on germination rate, percentage of germination, seedling growth (shoot and root length), and dry matter production. The treatments were setup in a three-replication factorial arrangement with a completely randomized design. The test was carried out on January 25, 2023. Results showed a difference between plant parts, concentration levels, and their interaction for the aforementioned parameters that was significantly different (P<0.05). At doses of 5,10, and 15%, aqueous extracts of all parts completely prevented plant germination. Aqueous extracts from weed plant, in contrast, had a smaller impact at 5% concentrations while having a much greater impact at higher concentrations on crop germination and growth. Crop roots were more susceptible to the effects of allelopathy than crop shoots. It is advised that an integrated weed management strategy be created and used to remove weeds from soybean fields in order to prevent poor seed germination and seedling growth and guarantee the crops long-term viability. B. difussa was found to be an allelopathic weed with water soluble allelochemicals in its plant parts and had such phytotoxic potency that could suppress the growth and nutrient accumulation of associated crop plants. ','Aqueous extract, weed, allelopathy, germination, Sangli district','A liquid extract reduced soybean seed germination occurs at 5% and 15% concentrations, while maximum germination occurs at 10%. The results of the current investigation demonstrate that Boerhavia difussa L. has the ability to be allelopathic to Glycine max L. The different phyto-toxic chemicals found in plant extracts are primarily responsible for the allelopathic action of the extracts, which may alone or collectively contribute to the plant growth regulating impact. Additional research is essentially necessary to a pinpoint the extracts\' active ingredients that are in charge of this activity (Bhardwaj et al., 2014).\r\nBoerhavia difussa prevented soybean from sprouting and growing. These results are important since preventing germination and growth results in lower productivity. Therefore, it is important to take into account interactions between weeds and crops. Boerhavia difusa experimentation with petridish and marijuana yielded a range of results. Therefore, it is crucial to confirm any in vitro results with further greenhouse and field studies that account for the various natural conditions that plants encounter while developing without human intervention. Additionally, additional research must be done on the allelopathic stress of these species under various climatic and soil conditions, as well as how to quantify the molecules that cause this stress (Sidhu et al., 2023).\r\n','-','Nikam S.R., Namdas D.D. and Padale T.R. (2023). Allelopathic effects of Boerhavia difussa L. aqueous extracts on Soybean (Glycine max L.) Seed Germination, Shoot and Root Growth and Dry Matter Production. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 15(5): 820-825.'),(6708,'157','The Relationship of core Stability to Functional Movement Screening score and Bunkie’s test in Young Male Competitive Athletes','Joseph Oliver Raj A., Mohanraj. K., Sam Thamburaj A., Vinod Kumar D. and Murali Sankar K.S.I.','The-Relationship-of-core-Stability-to-Functional-Movement-Screening-score-and-Bunkie’s-test-in-Young-Male-Competitive-Athletes-Joseph-123.pdf','',1,'The core is a vital component of the human body. The core refers to a group of muscles that stabilise and control the spine and pelvis. It is usually divided into an upper core and a lower core. The proper functioning of the core is required for stabilising the spine and the other joints over which movement patterns occur. The core muscles are activated even before the movements happen in the limbs. Having good control over the core and training the core to improve the overall stability and smoothness of bodily movements have been studied often. Core training is a vital component of training an athlete. Core stability is assessed by the McGill test battery. The Functional Movement Screening (FMS), consisting of seven movement patterns, and the Bunkie Test, consisting of five components assessed bilaterally, are often used to predict injury risk in athletes. Encouraging participants to adhere to the study protocol and complete assessments or training interventions is key to obtaining accurate and reliable data. This study investigates the correlation of core stability to FMS and the bunkie test in order to establish an association between the core and the risk of injury in the athletic population.','Core stability, Functional movement, Bunkie\'s test, Athletes','The results of the study conclude that the McGill core stability test battery is correlated to the FMS score and to the bunkie test score, both of which are used as injury risk predictors. The core stability measured by the McGill test battery is correlated to the DLLT and the seated medicine ball throw test. Training the core and improving core stability could have a positive effect on reducing injury risk in track and field athletes.','-','Joseph Oliver Raj A., Mohanraj. K., Sam Thamburaj A., Vinod Kumar D. and Murali Sankar K.S.I. (2023). The Relationship of core stability to functional movement screening score and Bunkie’s test in young male competitive athletes. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 15(5): 826-831.'),(6709,'157','Screening for Antimicrobial Efficacy of Fucoidan Isolated and Characterized from the Brown Seaweed Stoechospermum marginatum (C. Agardh) Kutzing Collected along the Coastline of Tamil Nadu','Saravanan Muniyappan, Arul Balasubramanian, Kothai Ramalingam and Murali Govindan','Screening-for-Antimicrobial-Efficacy-of-Fucoidan-Isolated-and-Characterized-from-the-Brown-Seaweed-Stoechospermum-Marginatum-(C.-Agardh)-Kutzing-Collected-along-the-Coastline-of-Tamil-Nadu-Saravanan-124.pdf','',1,'The need for novel antibacterial biomolecules has been a focus for many years. The major challenge is the designing of synthetic molecular drug targets that are not prone to rapid resistance development. The current study is designed for the antibacterial screening efficacy of seaweed fucoidan. Fucoidan are sulfated polysaccharides derived from brown seaweeds with diversified pharmacological activities. The brown seaweed Stoechospermum marginatum is collected from the southern coastline of Tamil Nadu. The structural components of the extracted fucoidan from the seaweed were identified and confirmed by performing a specific test for the presence of total carbohydrate, L-fucose, and sulfate content using biochemical methods. HPLC and FTIR analysis confirmed the structural entity of fucoidan. It showed that the extracted fucoidan contains fucose and sulphate. Fucoidan were evaluated for their antibacterial capability against clinical pathogens. The antibacterial efficacy of fucoidan was performed against bacterial clinical pathogens using agar well diffusion, minimum inhibitory concentration (MIC), and minimum bactericidal concentration (MBC) methods. The maximum antibacterial activity of 18.14 ± 0.37 mm was derived for gram-negative Klebsiella pneumonia and the minimum activity was noticed as 10.6 ± 0.18 for gram-positive Streptococcus faecalis. Fucoidan are found to be effective against both strains of bacteria and found effective against gram-negative strains. The seaweed fucoidan can be utilized as a lead molecule for combating lethal bacterial diseases. ','Seaweeds, fucoidan, sulfated polysaccharides, fucose, antibacterial','Seaweed is found to be a rich and viable source of potent biomolecules. The present investigation on brown seaweed S. marginatum was subjected to acid extraction to isolate sulfated polysaccharides. The composition of fucoidan is further confirmed by the estimation of fucose and sulfate content. The isolated polysaccharides when analysed by TLC, HPLC and FTIR studies give solid evidence for the presence of fucoidan. Isolated fucoidan were screened for their antibacterial potential against gram-positive and gram-negative clinical pathogens. The antibacterial activity of fucoidan showed promising MIC and MIB. Fucoidan proven to be ideal lead molecules to cure various ailments; they can be utilized as a novel biomolecules for the cure of pathogenic bacterial diseases. Therefore, these results suggest that fucoidan will serve as herbal medicine with proven antimicrobial effects and may be useful for the treatment of pathogenic infections. The results obtained in the present study open up new possibilities for research on the use of this natural compound as a sustainable bioactive lead molecule. The future goal of the current study is to perform antimicrobial study on, pathogenic Virus, Fungus and protozoans, in addition to the entire bacterial pathogenic strains therefore, to eradicate clinical pathogens at the site of infection.','-','Saravanan Muniyappan, Arul Balasubramanian, Kothai Ramalingam and Murali Govindan (2023). Screening for Antimicrobial Efficacy of Fucoidan Isolated and Characterized from the Brown Seaweed Stoechospermum Marginatum (C. Agardh) Kutzing Collected along the Coastline of Tamil Nadu. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 15(5): 832-839.'),(6710,'157','Super Foods for Liver Health: A Critical Review','Prathiksa Pramanik, Anirban Pattanayak, Shweta Parida, Monisha Nath, Mainak Sur and Souvik Tewari','Super-Foods-for-Liver-Health-A-Critical-Review-Souvik-Tewari-125.pdf','',1,'A special food category known as \"Super foods\" has emerged as a result of the advancement of food within nutrition. Superfoods are particular food items that are able to express numerous advantageous effects like mitigate multiple complications, this type of foods convey strong immunity, have chief compounds such as polysaccharides, polyphenols, essential fatty acids. Apart from that, it carries macro & microminerals in enough quantity. In modern community, super foods are substantial regard which is caused of enhanced health awareness of people. It is a functional food that protects against liver illness by helping the liver to detoxify. This critical review\'s goal is to analyse the effects of superfoods on liver detoxification from a scientific perspective.','Superfoods, Brazil nuts, Hemp seeds, Garden cress seeds, Maca, Amla, Oats, Black rice, orange-coloured fruits & vegetables, tomato & pink grape fruits','From this critical review it was concluded that the superfoods are nutrient-dense food items that deliver the greatest amount of health benefits, the best nutrition, and the fewest calories. It has extensive bioactive constituents & efficient nutrients which stop the manifestations of hepatic intoxication. Added super foods with normal diet are convenient avenue to maintain good metabolism. Superfoods would be much admired among people as they are very much conscious about health. Now a days, scientifically get extreme support about super foods. ','-','Prathiksa Pramanik, Anirban Pattanayak, Shweta Parida, Monisha Nath, Mainak Sur and Souvik Tewari (2023). Super Foods for Liver Health: A Critical Review. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 15(5): 840-847.'),(6711,'157','Effectiveness of Diadynamic Current with Multifidus Exercises in Low Back Pain among Housewives','Karthika, M. K., Ranjani. M. , Seethalakshmi, P., Murali Sankar, K. S. I. and Sam Thamburaj, A.','Effectiveness-of-Diadynamic-Current-with-Multifidus-Exercises-in-Low-Back-Pain-among-Housewives-Karthika-126.pdf','',1,'Women doing household chores have a high prevalence of low back pain [LBP] because of adverse effects and risk factors that mostly appear in middle age. Discussing the role of \"lumbar multifidus muscles (LMM)\" that is represented in the review discusses the analysis based on clinical literature of the treatment and the interventions of LBP. Evaluating the effects of synergistic diadynamic (DD) currents with Multifidus exercises on symptoms related to pain relief improves the patient\'s physical functionality with \"chronic low back pain\" (LBP). Comparisons between two groups were compiled in this review. Seven electronic databases (MEDLINE, EBSCO, EMBASE, Google Scholar, PUBMED, SCOPUS, and the Cochrane Library) up to March 2021 were searched. Trails that are controlled randomly are included in this review. This search is limited to studies published in only English. We here sum up the distributed proof on this treatment related to LBP and present a detailed summary of DD with 15 studies and multifidus exercises that have been conducted and the effectiveness of a critical examination’s evidence of DD in LBP among the housewives. Summaries of 15 studies of LBP patients are included in this analysis. Afterward, evaluate their quality of life by analysing the reported data. Training of muscles as directed to teach patients to activate their LMM has played an important clinical role in the treatment of the LBP patient. Diadynamic current devices and fitness equipment may be challenging to get. Limited resources or equipment failure might hinder intervention implementation. Women, specifically housewives, could apply DD therapy with multifidus exercises on the basis of daily routine care for patients suffering from pain in the low back. Exercises using DD currents in chronic LBP can be helpful in reducing the pain, which improves the physical functions.','Diadynamic current, synergy, Low back pain, Multifidus exercises, housewives, multifidus dysfunction','Studies have shown that LBP can produce pressure on development, prompting development evasion (dread aversion convictions), which may prompt further expanding issues with ADL, deconditioning, reducing sexual capacity, and WA. Additionally, regular psychological issues, like despondency, tension, and stress-related issues, which likewise constantly co-happen with LBP, can prompt negative impacts on ordinary performance, and the other way around, such issues can be the result of such issues and irritate LBP. Despite the fact that there is no generally acknowledged treatment methodology that fits each patient with LBP, true preparation, exhaustive education of the patient, and working atmosphere or home adjustments have been demonstrated to have the option to intrude on the shared impact among LBP and the depicted interposing factors and beneficially affect ADL, WA, and sexual capacity. For this, a multidisciplinary approach is vital, which incorporates multiprofessional care groups, support of the cases, and the contribution of varied settings, like work surroundings, home, and actual preparation offices.\r\nThe results of this study showed that spinal stabilisation exercise had a positive effect on patients by reducing pain and lumbar disability, preventing atrophy of multifidus and psoas major muscles, and increasing paraspinal muscle strength. Studies have shown that LBP can produce tension in development, prompting development evasion (dread aversion convictions), which may prompt deconditioning and further expand issues with ADL, WA, and diminishing sexual capacity. Besides, regular mental issues, like despondency, tension, and stress-related issues, which likewise frequently co-happen with LBP, can prompt antagonistic impacts on ordinary execution, and the other way around, such issues can be the result of such issues and irritate LBP.\r\nDespite the fact that there is no generally acknowledged treatment methodology that fits each patient with LBP, actual preparation, exhaustive patient schooling, and working environment or home adjustments have been demonstrated to have the option to intrude on the shared impact among LBP and the depicted interceding factors and beneficially affect ADL, WA, and sexual capacity. For this, a multidisciplinary approach is vital, which incorporates multiprofessional care groups, the support of the patients, and the contributions of various settings, like the work environment, home, and actual preparation offices.\r\n','-','Karthika, M. K., Ranjani. M. , Seethalakshmi, P., Murali Sankar, K. S. I. and Sam Thamburaj, A. (2023). Effectiveness of Diadynamic Current with Multifidus Exercises in Low Back Pain among Housewives. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 15(5): 848-852.'),(6712,'157','Formulation and Evaluation of Herbal Hair Growth Formulation of Ashwagandha in the Treatment for Alopecia','Wagh Jyoti G., Pandhare R.B., Pawar A.R., Veerkar Prachi V., \r\nAmit Lunked and Katkar Rushikesh B.\r\n','Formulation-and-Evaluation-of-Herbal-Hair-Growth-Formulation-of-Ashwagandha-in-the-Treatment-for-Alopecia-Wagh-Jyoti-G-127.pdf','',1,'Hair loss can be seen as a patchy, confluent, or diffuse pattern in alopecia. With a lifetime risk of 1.7%, the prevalence in the general population was estimated to be between 0.1% and 0.2%. Both men and women can have alopecia equally, but some studies have found that men are more frequently affected. At any age, it can happen. As a Rasayana, Withania somnifera (Ashawagandha) is a highly valued herb in the Indian Ayurvedic medical system (tonic). It is particularly utilised as a nervine tonic and for treating a variety of illness conditions. The relationship between ashwagandha and hair loss is still being researched in addition to all other applications.\r\nIt can be strongly inferred from the current research that Aswhagandha may have ingredients that help promote hair development. It was concluded that the highest withanolide content was found in methanolic extract, which, when combined with a herbal gel base, can promote hair growth without irritating the skin. According to the overall findings of this exploratory study, using this herbal hair growth formulation for a short period of time might dramatically reduce hair loss and may even stimulate new hair growth in some people.\r\n','Alopecia, Ashawagandha, withanolide, Withania somnifera, minoxidil','Forensic and clinical pathology may benefit from the current HPTLC approach. The strategy is important for in-process quality monitoring of plant raw materials since it is a sensible, cost-effective solution in the pharmaceutical and phytopharmaceutical industries. The methanolic extract was found to have more withanolide than any of the other extracts. The identification of withanolide in the gel formulation is supported by the indirect TLC-HRMS results of the sample and standards. This HPTLC indirect TLC-HRMS approach can be used for chemotaxonomy and phyllogenetic position of plant species as well as the screening and quantification of withanolides in crude plant powders, plant extracts, formulations, or in-process quality control in the phytopharmaceutical industry.\r\nThe Aswhagandha may include ingredients that can stimulate hair development, according to the findings of an experiment on the activity of hair growth in rats. It is concluded that methanolic extract has the highest withanolide content and, when combined with a herbal gel base, can promote hair growth without irritating the skin. It demonstrated the shortest possible time for the growth of hair to begin and finish on denuded surfaces. In comparison to others, it was also discovered to increase hair length. Overall, the early study\'s findings indicate that using this herbal hair growth formulation for a brief period of time can dramatically reduce hair loss and, in some participants, even stimulate new hair growth.\r\n','-','Wagh Jyoti G., Pandhare R.B., Pawar A.R., Veerkar Prachi V., Amit Lunked and Katkar Rushikesh B. (2023). Formulation and Evaluation of Herbal Hair Growth Formulation of Ashwagandha in the Treatment for Alopecia. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 15(5): 853-858.'),(6713,'151','Non-parametric Measures of Fruit Yield Stability in Spine gourd [Momordica dioica (Roxb.) Ex. Willd.] Genotypes','N.K. Jajoriya* and H.L. Raiger','Non-parametric-Measures-of-Fruit-Yield-Stability-in-Spine-gourd-[Momordica-dioica-(Roxb.)-Ex.-Willd.]-Genotypes-NK-Jajoriya-2.pdf','',1,'Multi environmental trials (MET) play a pivotal role in selecting the best genotype or agronomic practices to be adopted in future years at different locations by assessing the genotype stability across over environments before its commercial release. Objective of this investigation is to identify spine gourd genotypes that have high fruit yield and stable performance across different environments. The genotypes were developed by the various breeders at different centres of AICRN on Underutilized Crops in India. Ten genotypes were tested at four research centres for three years (2005-2007). Two non-parametric statistical tests of significance for genotype × environment (GE) interaction and 10 non-parametric measures of stability analysis were used to identify high yield stable genotype across the 11 environments. The non-parametric measures for G×E interaction were highly significant (p<0.05), suggesting different response of genotypes to the test location/year. Based on low value of non-parametric measures, RMF-17 was identified most stable genotype by Nassar and Huehn (1987); Thennarasu (1995). These non-parametric measures were observed to be associated with high mean fruit yield. The simple correlation coefficient using Spearman’s rank correlation, calculated using the ranks was used to measure the relationship between the stability parameters. To understand the nature of relationships among the non-parametric methods, a hierarchical cluster analysis based on non-weighted values of genotypes was performed. The 8 stability measures fell into four groups. At a global level information on genetic improvement, adaptability and genotype environment interaction of spine gourd is restricted to few publications.','-','-','-','-'),(6714,'157','Assessment of Surface Water Quality and Physicochemical Analysis of Mamchari Dam in District Karauli (Rajasthan), India','Rameshi Meena and Vijendra K. Sharma','Assessment-of-Surface-Water-Quality-and-Physicochemical-Analysis-of-Mamchari-Dam-in-district-Karauli-(Rajasthan),-India-Rameshi-Meena-128.pdf','',1,'The present study is about the assessment of surface water quality through the physicochemical analysis of Mamchari dam. The dam is located in Mamchari Village of Karauli District of Rajasthan state. The water quality of Mamchari dam was carried out for a period of two years i.e. from February, 2018 to January, 2020 on the basis of monthly samplings. This study has provided the first data set for the assessment of the water quality of the Mamchari dam. The physicochemical parameters such as air temperature, water temperature, light intensity, relative humidity, pH, COD, BOD, DO, nitrate, phosphate, chloride, sulphate, conductivity, total alkalinity, total hardness, TDS and total solids were estimated. Water samples were collected from the selected two sampling sites of dam and estimated onsite and in the laboratory. All the physicochemical factors studied were found within the permissible limit except pH and Mg hardness as recommended by BIS. The dam was found to be more alkaline during the summer season as compared in the winter and monsoon months. The study comprises all types of oppression of the dam and comprises the suggestion and references regarding the management of natural exposures and contesting the proscribed human interloping on entire atmosphere.','Freshwater, Mamcahri dam, Physicochemical, Water quality','Our objectives focus on the study of physicochemical characteristics of freshwater of Mamchari dam to monitor the water quality. Previous work has yet to be done on this dam. Thus, this is the first attempt of such study on the Mamchari dam for the assessment of surface water quality. From the following study it can be observed that the pH of water is more than the permissible limit thus water is alkaline. While most of the other parameters like TDS, Total hardness, Ca hardness, Mg hardness, Chloride, Sulphate and Nitrite have values which are lesser than the permissible limits. The water of the dam studied is all soft due to low values of hardness. So, it is concluded that the Mamchari dam’s water indicates suitability for fish culture.','-','Rameshi Meena and Vijendra K. Sharma (2023). Assessment of Surface Water Quality and Physicochemical Analysis of Mamchari Dam in District Karauli (Rajasthan), India. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 15(5): 859-869.'),(6715,'157','Traditional and Indigenous uses of Medicinal Plants by Tribes of Assam, India','Dharitri Borgohain and Propalika Borpatra Gohain','Traditional-and-Indigenous-uses-of-Medicinal-Plants-by-Tribes-of-Assam,-India-Dharitri-Borgohain-129.pdf','',1,'The present paper deals with the enumeration of 45 ethnobotanically important plant species used by the Khamti and Deori tribes of Lakhimpur, Assam. Both the tribes possess immense wealth of knowledge in the field of ethnomedicinal practices and healing methods. The plants are locally found in wild condition or are grown by professional healers in their household premises. Medicinal preparations were given by the local practitioners in the form of powder, paste and extracts. It was found that leaves of the plants were mostly used for making various formulations. There remained yet a number of lesser known plants to be studied at taxonomical and pharmacological level for database and clinical validity. These practices demand proper documentation and sharing or it may soon become a thing of the past. This study was conducted recognizing the urgent need to conserve these assets that might provide a new platform for pharmacological screening programmes that will lead to natural drug discovery in the future. Thus, this study is the collected data of rare knowledge confined to the North Eastern region only and it will further contribute to the awakening of conscious realization of the rich resources that we possess and their need for conservation, documentation and publication.','Ethnobotany, Herbal, Indigenous, Medicinal plants, Traditional knowledge','Tribal communities possess a rich heritage of ethnomedicinal practices and this study enabled to catch only a glimpse of their vast wealth of knowledge and information. Ethnomedicinal studies can redefine modern pharmaceutical products with comparatively lesser side effects. People should be made aware about these traditional healing methods and various studies and researches should be encouraged to preserve these resources, or else they may one day become extinct with time. The present work has highlighted on the potential medicinal plants used by both the Khamti and Deori tribes of Lakhimpur district. This documented knowledge can significantly contribute to the discovery of newer drugs in future therefore, it is crucial to create awareness on conservation strategies of these bioresources for a sustainable development. ','-','Dharitri Borgohain and Propalika Borpatra Gohain (2023). Traditional and Indigenous uses of Medicinal Plants by Tribes of Assam, India. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 15(5): 870-874.'),(6716,'157','Improving Seed Quality by Seed Priming under Abiotic Stress Condition: A Review','Deepak Rao, Chaithanya G., Rakesh Dawar, Rohit Chandi and Monalisha Sahoo','Improving-Seed-Quality-by-Seed-Priming-under-Abiotic-Stress-Condition-A-Review-Deepak-Rao-130.pdf','',1,'Plants face various environmental stresses such as drought, extreme temperatures, exposure to hazardous compounds, submersion, and high salt levels, all of which significantly impact their growth, development, and yield. To enhance plants\' ability to withstand these challenges, seed priming has emerged as a simple and cost-effective technique. In this method, seeds are soaked in solutions containing natural or synthetic chemicals before sowing, which accelerates the germination process and triggers crucial physiological and biochemical changes in plants. Seed priming is a physiological process that enables plants to respond more effectively to impending environmental stresses as part of their defense mechanism. Furthermore, plants grown from primed seeds exhibit enhanced and faster responses to environmental challenges. It is evident that seed priming for improved tolerance to abiotic stresses operates through multiple pathways linked to various metabolic activities. Different types of seed priming techniques are employed, and all have demonstrated the ability to produce seedlings that grow faster, more uniformly, and yield larger harvests. Although primed seeds have limitations in terms of viability when stored at high temperatures, the advantages of seed priming outweigh these drawbacks. For successful seed priming, it is crucial to use high-quality seeds that are uniform in size and maturity. Poor-quality or non-uniform seeds may yield inconsistent priming effects and variable germination rates. This overview aims to provide a comprehensive understanding of the various crop species that benefit from seed priming techniques and the undeniable advantages it offers in terms of increased resistance to environmental challenges.','Abiotic stress, salinity, seed germination, seed priming, seedling emergence','In recent years, the practice of priming seeds has come to be recognized as a dependable method for dealing with stress since it helps protect plants from many sorts of stress that could negatively impact their fitness. Additionally, this method provides a practical, sensible, clever, and easy solution for plant protection. Drought, salinity, oxidative stress, and high temperatures are all related and can cause comparable types of damage. As a result, these abiotic stimuli primarily trigger comparable biological signaling pathways and reactions. Early phases of plant development are known to be activated by seed priming, and growth eventually results in rapid defense responses. Although the particular biochemical mechanisms of seed priming are not entirely understood, it is hypothesized that the buildup of inactive proteins in primed cells is to blame. On the effectiveness of seed priming, several opinions were presented. According to (Nascimento & West 1988), primed seeds have improved germination and seedling vigour due of the mobilization of food reserves, activation and synthesis of specific enzymes, as well as increased production of DNA and RNA. ','-','Deepak Rao, Chaithanya G., Rakesh Dawar, Rohit Chandi and Monalisha Sahoo (2023). Improving Seed Quality by Seed Priming under Abiotic Stress Condition: A Review. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 15(5): 875-885.'),(6717,'157','Nuclear Ribosomal DNA (nrDNA) Sequence based Molecular Markers for Plant Phylogeny: Potential and Pitfalls','Inamul Haque','Nuclear-Ribosomal-DNA-(nrDNA)-Sequence-based-Molecular-Markers-for-Plant-Phylogeny-Potential-and-Pitfalls-Inamul-Haque-131.pdf','',1,'Phylogenies play a valuable role in our understanding of biological diversity. They help to structure classifications and provide us with insights into the events that took place during the course of evolution. For the assessment of phylogeny, historically used morphological data is now being replaced by the more advantageous molecular data, specifically DNA sequence data. One of the most important region used for phylogenetic inference is the nuclear ribosomal DNA (nrDNA) region. The ITS1-5.8S-ITS2, ITS2, intergenic spacer and external transcribed spacer regions have been routinely used for phylogenetic analysis. Evaluating accurate phylogenetic inference with the advent of molecular data has its own set of challenges. If the background of the genes or sequences included in the analysis are not considered and understood, it can lead to major pitfalls resulting in inaccurate phylogenetic reconstructions. A better understanding of the different molecular processes which operate in these regions is of paramount importance since they can directly affect the phylogenetic analysis. This review summarizes the different problems that can arise when using nrDNA sequences for phylogenetic analysis, and how to overcome them.','Phylogeny, molecular markers, internal transcribed spacer, external transcribed spacer, nuclear ribosomal DNA','The wealth of knowledge on the phylogeny of life is largely attributed to morphological data. The hierarchical classification systems that have been developed using morphological datasets do share similar phylogenetic nodes with those predicted by sequence based markers. Despite their limited resolution, these classifications establish a foundation of diagnostic anchor points (Caddah et al., 2022). DNA sequence analyses can then serve to validate, clarify, reinforce, and enhance accuracy for phylogenetic areas that lack sufficient morphological data, using these anchor points as a framework. The reason behind DNA data overtaking morphology in phylogenetic studies is that a substantial amount of the valuable morphological diversity has already undergone meticulous examination.\r\nThe nrDNA region of eukaryotes do serve as a valuable marker for phylogenetic analyses due to their high sequence level variability, conserved flanking regions, rapid concerted evolution under similar functional constraints, and their small size. There are multiple challenges associated with the usage of these sequence. These challenges can be overcome with a proper understanding of the sequences and considerable precautions have to be undertaken for phylogenetic analyses to be accurate. Studies have consistently demonstrated that integrating both ITS and 5\' ETS datasets in phylogenetic analyses tends to yield higher support and resolution of trees. Therefore, incorporating a 5\' ETS dataset into an existing ITS-based phylogeny appears to be a promising approach for enhancing phylogenetic accuracy (Chen et al., 2022). Rather than relying solely on nrDNA sequences for phylogenetic analysis, it is beneficial to consider using single-copy nuclear genes as an alternative. These genes, which are inherited from both parents, are becoming more prevalent in phylogenetic analysis. They typically avoid concerted evolution and feature codons that limit alignment ambiguity, making it easier to conduct homologous comparisons.\r\n','-','Inamul Haque (2023). Nuclear Ribosomal DNA (nrDNA) Sequence based Molecular Markers for Plant Phylogeny: Potential and Pitfalls. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 15(5): 886-892.'),(6718,'157','Standardization and Biochemical Analysis of Dragon Fruit (Hylocereus undatus) Mayonnaise','K. Jagadeeswari, Libin John, Febin Shaji, K.N. Satheeshan, R. Philip Sridhar, \r\nIvan Wilson and Jenita Thinakaran\r\n','Standardization-and-Biochemical-Analysis-of-Dragon-Fruit-(Hylocereus-undatus)-Mayonnaise-Jenita-Thinakaran-132.pdf','',1,'Dragon fruit is considered as a super fruit with tremendous health benefits including anticancer properties. A dragon fruit mayonnaise was standardized to evaluate the biochemical properties as part of research carried out at School of Agricultural Sciences in Karunya Institute of Technology and Sciences, Coimbatore. The stability, consistency and rancidity of mayonnaise are major challenges as the major ingredients are required to be added in right amounts with the right type of blending. The treatments used in this experiment were: plain mayonnaise without egg, plain mayonnaise with egg, mayonnaise with dragon fruit and no egg, mayonnaise with dragon fruit and with egg. The biochemical properties (titratable acidity, pH, vitamin C, protein, ash, moisture and carbohydrate content) of the different mayonnaise combinations were assessed. The highest protein (34.67g/100g) sand carbohydrate content (20.74g/100g) were observed in mayonnaise with dragon fruit and egg, as compared to all other treatments. Dragon fruit mayonnaise with no egg exhibited the highest vitamin C content (5.62mg/100g), which could be attributed to the presence of dragon fruit in the mayonnaise. The fat content was significantly lower in the dragon fruit mayonnaise as compared to plain mayonnaise (both with and without egg). The results indicated that the fat content is lowered due to addition of dragon fruit in the mayonnaise. Efforts are underway to develop low-calorie versions of plant-based mayonnaise with potential health benefits. ','Dragon fruit, mayonnaise, low-fat, vitamin C, antioxidants','Based on the present study, it was observed that dragon fruit mayonnaise contained more protein and ash compared to plain mayonnaise. Also, dragon fruit mayonnaise is rich in Vitamin C which is significantly important for health, which and was not present in plain mayonnaise. Above all, dragon fruit mayonnaise contained reduced fat content. Developing low-fat mayonnaise has several challenges in maintaining the viscosity and stability. Acidity may be enhanced by adding lime or vinegar. The findings of this study are useful not only in providing information on the nutritional content of dragon fruit mayonnaise, but also in improving public awareness and understanding of healthy food choices. ','-','K. Jagadeeswari, Libin John, Febin Shaji, K.N. Satheeshan, R. Philip Sridhar, Ivan Wilson and Jenita Thinakaran (2023). Standardization and Biochemical Analysis of Dragon Fruit (Hylocereus undatus) Mayonnaise. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 15(5): 893-896.'),(6719,'157','Physico-Functional Properties of Jungle Jalebi (Pithecellobium dulce) Fruit Powder','Kachhawa Kavita, Lakhawat Sarla and Ojha Komal','Physico-Functional-Properties-of-Jungle-Jalebi-(Pithecellobium-dulce)-Fruit-Powder-Kachhawa-Kavita-133.pdf','',1,'Jungle Jalebi (Pithecellobium dulce) fruits have immense nutritional potential but have limited utilization. Drying of Jungle Jalebi fruits may enhance their utilization efficiency but can also change its physico-functional properties. Thus, the present study was planned to study physico-functional properties of developed Jungle Jalebi fruit powder (FP). The results revealed that the developed powder have high bulk density, swelling capacity, oil absorption, water solubility, water absorption & retention, foaming capacity and moderate least gelation concentration. Thus, it can be concluded that the Jungle Jalebi fruits powder can be effectively utilized as a functional ingredient in innovative food designing.',': Jungle Jalebi, Pithecellobium dulce, Functional properties, Fruit powder','Thus, from the study of physico-chemical properties of developed FP powder it is clear that it has high bulk density with passable flow ability. The smooth interaction of FP with water is reflected by high swelling capacity, solubility, water absorption and retention with moderate least gelation concentration. High foaming capacity with low foaming stability suggests its suitability for bakery and confectionary products. The high oil absorption capacity limits its optimum utilization in food products. ','-','Kachhawa Kavita, Lakhawat Sarla and Ojha Komal (2023). Physico-Functional Properties of Jungle Jalebi (Pithecellobium dulce) Fruit Powder. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 15(5): 897-905.'),(6720,'157','Potential Bioactive Compounds to Treat Alzheimer’s Onset: A review','Mohan Kumar B.S., Suresh Kumar C. and Narasimha Murthy V.N.','Potential-Bioactive-Compounds-to-Treat-Alzheimer’s-Onset-A-review-Mohan-Kumar-BS-134.pdf','',1,'Neurological disorders affecting aging individuals are characterized by neurodegeneration, posing a severe health risk. With the aging population increasing globally, the incidence of such diseases is escalating, creating a growing public health concern. Alzheimer\'s disease (AD) is the most prevalent cause of age-related dementia, and currently, no effective therapies exist to prevent, delay, or reverse its course. However, various studies have indicated that lifestyle changes, including diet, could postpone or prevent the onset of AD. Food is increasingly recognized as a crucial component in maintaining good health, preventing oxidative stress and chronic inflammation, and avoiding chronic degenerative diseases. Preprobiotics, nutraceuticals containing bioactive compounds with antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties, and anti-protein aggregation molecules are essential in preventing and treating cognitive impairment and AD. This study focuses on natural plant-derived compounds and their derivatives, demonstrating neuroprotective activity and providing promise for treating and preventing AD.','Alzheimer\'s disease, galantamine, huperzines, berberine, aporphine, polyphenols, flavonoids, curcumin, terpenoids, resveratrol','Natural compounds have gained significant attention as potential therapeutic agents for the treatment of Alzheimer\'s disease due to their diverse pharmacological activities and relatively fewer side effects. The various natural compounds discussed in the article, including curcumin, omega-3 fatty acids, flavonoids, terpenoids, and resveratrol, have shown promising results in preclinical studies and clinical trials. However, further research is necessary to determine their effectiveness, safety, and optimal dosage for the treatment of Alzheimer\'s disease. Overall, natural compounds provide a promising avenue for the development of novel therapeutics for Alzheimer\'s disease and other neurodegenerative disorders.','-','Mohan Kumar B.S., Suresh Kumar C. and Narasimha Murthy V.N. (2023). Potential Bioactive Compounds to Treat Alzheimer’s Onset: A review. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 15(5): 906-911.'),(6721,'157','Significance of Nano N Fertilizer on uptake, efficiency and Yield of Rice Crop','Jagriti Patel, K. Tedia, Jyoti Bala, L.K. Srivastava, V.N. Mishra, R.K. Banwasi and Gourav Jatav','Significance-of-Nano-N-Fertilizer-on-uptake,-efficiency-and-Yield-of-Rice-Crop-Jagriti-Patel-135.pdf','',1,'A field experiment was carried out during the kharif season of 2020 and 2021 at Research Farm of IGKV, Raipur, Chhattisgarh, India to study the impact of different combination of nano N on yield and uptake of rice and efficacy of the fertilizer in the crop. The experiment was laid out in a randomized block design (RBD) with twelve treatments, each replicated thrice. The different treatment combinations were T1 – 0% N (control), T2 - 50% RDN, T3 – 75% RDN, T4 – 100% NPK (RDF - 120:60:40 kg ha-1), T5 – 0% N + 2 sprays of nano N @ 4 ml l-1, T6 – 0% N + 2 sprays of nano N @ 8 ml l-1, T7 – 50% N + 2 sprays of nano N @ 4 ml l-1, T8 – 50% N + 2 sprays of nano N @ 8 ml l-1, T9 – 75% N + 2 sprays of nano N @ 4 ml l-1, T10 – 75% N + 2 sprays of nano N @ 8 ml l-1, T11 – 50% N + 2 sprays of 2% urea and T12 – 50% N + 3 sprays of 2% urea. The results indicated that the treatments i.e. 100% RDF (T4), 75% N + 2 sprays of nano N @ 8 and 4 ml l-1 (T10 and T9), 50% N + 2 sprays of nano N @ 8 and 4 ml l-1 (T8 and T7) and 50% N + 3 sprays of 2% urea (T12) obtained significantly higher grain yield over the others while straw yield was found highest in 100% RDF (T4) followed by 75% N + 2 sprays of nano N @ 8 and 4 ml l-1 (T10 and T9) treatments in both the seasons. The highest total N uptake was found under T4 - 100% RDF (98.12 kg ha-1), T9 -75% N + 2 sprays of nano N @ 4 ml l-1 (94.25 kg ha-1) and T10 - 75% N + 2 sprays of nano N @ 8 ml l-1 (94.09 kg ha-1). Lastly, The Nitrogen Use Efficiency (NUE) was maximized 47.49% in 50%N + 2 sprays of nano N@4ml l-1 (T7) followed by 46.82 to 43.81% in different N levels combined with nano N and urea sprays.','Nano N, Nitrogen use efficiency, N-uptake, Foliar application, Rice','Nanotechnology application in agriculture is still in its early stages of development. A horrifying deficit of nutrients in agricultural soil has resulted in a sharp decrease in viability of yield and a severe economic crisis. From the results, we can conclude that the foliar application of nano N (@ 4 and 8 ml l-1) in combination with either 50 and 75 % N (T7, T8, T9 and T10) and foliar application of 2% urea in 2 and 3 sprays with 50% N (T11 and T12) were comparable to the application of 100% RDF (T4) thereby, indicating the importance of foliar application. Thus, the use of nano-N can reduce the recommended dosage of nitrogenous fertilizer by up to 50%. The N uptake was found optimum with the application of 75% N with 2 sprays of nano N @ 4 and 8 ml l-1 (T9 and T10) along with 100% RDF (T4). Overall higher NUE was obtained by the application of a mix of conventional and nano N than as obtained by 100% RDF. Therefore, it can be concluded that nano N helps in obtaining higher nitrogen use efficiency over the 100% RDF application using conventional NPK fertilizer. Finally, it can be concluded that nano N can be used with conventional nitrogenous fertilizer for higher yield, uptake and efficiency of nitrogen. But in order to validate the results of the current investigation, deeper research in this background is required to be done.','-','Jagriti Patel, K. Tedia, Jyoti Bala, L.K. Srivastava, V.N. Mishra, R.K. Banwasi and Gourav Jatav (2023). Significance of Nano N Fertilizer on uptake, efficiency and Yield of Rice Crop. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 15(5): 912-916.'),(6722,'157','In-vitro Evaluation of Botanicals and Fungicides against Ginger Leaf Spot caused by Phyllosticta zingiberi Ramakr','Sampritha S., Pankaja N.S., Umashankar Kumar N. and Mahadeva J.','In-vitro-Evaluation-of-Botanicals-and-Fungicides-against-Ginger-Leaf-Spot-caused-by-Phyllosticta-zingiberi-Ramakr-NS-Pankaja-136.pdf','',1,'Phyllosticta zingiberi Ramakr causing leaf spot of ginger is considered to be destructive, appearing in mild or severe form in all ginger growing tracts of the country. In Karnataka, amongst the various foliar diseases of ginger, occurrence of leaf spot disease caused by Phyllosticta zingiberi is significantly increasingwhich destroys the chlorophyllous tissues thereby causing significant reduction in rhizome yield. Therefore, the present study was conducted to know the effective fungicides, botanicals and bioagents for the management of the disease against five isolates of P. zingiberi pathogen. The contact fungicides mancozeb 75%WP recorded highest mycelial inhibition of 100 per cent at the least concentration tested (500ppm). In case of systemic fungicides Propiconazole 25%EC, Tebuconazole 25%EC and Difenconazole 25%EC recorded highest mycelial inhibition of 100 per cent at least concentration tested (500ppm). The combination product Carbendazim 12% + mancozeb 63%WP recorded highest per cent mycelial inhibition of 100 per cent at the least concentration tested (500ppm). Among different botanicals tested, 100 per cent mycelial inhibition was recorded by garlic clove extract. Among the bioagents B. subtilis recorded 100 per cent mycelial inhibition of all the isolates.','Ginger leaf spot, Phyllosticta zingiberi, Mycelial Inhibition, Fungicides, Botanicals, Bioagents','Plant Disease management is very much important for preventing productivity losses. In recent years there is an increase in ginger leaf spot disease occurrence and severity which causes significant reduction in yield. The present findings revealed Mancozeb 75%WP, Propiconazole 25%EC and Carbendazim 12% + mancozeb 63%WP fungicides are effective against the pathogen in vitro. Also botanicals like garlic clove extract followed by neem and chilli extract and bioagents B. subtilis, P. fluorescens and T. viridae are effective in reducing the fungal growth.','-','Sampritha S., Pankaja N.S., Umashankar Kumar N. and Mahadeva J. (2023). In-vitro Evaluation of Botanicals and Fungicides against Ginger Leaf Spot caused by Phyllosticta zingiberi Ramakr. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 15(5): 917-927.'),(6723,'157','Studies on Pollen Fertility and in vitro Pollen Germination in Medium duration Genotypes of Pigeonpea (Cajanus cajan (Millsp.) L.)','Pavithran P. and Indira Petchiammal K.','Studies-on-Pollen-Fertility-and-in-vitro-Pollen-Germination-in-Medium-duration-Genotypes-of-Pigeonpea-(Cajanus-cajan-(Millsp.)-L.)-Pavithran-P-137.pdf','',1,'Pollen is like any living organism and depicts a crucial stage in the life cycle of plants, as viable pollens are necessary for sexual reproduction in plants. The quality of pollen is assessed based on viability and vigour. Viability refers to the ability of the pollen to deliver functional sperm cells to the embryo sac following compatible pollination. The quality of the pollen should always be studied under defined conditions as the behavior and survival of the pollen grains are easily altered by the genotype and environmental conditions. A complete knowledge on pollen viability will help in proper understanding of pollination and fertilization in plants. Bearing this in mind, the present study investigated thirty genotypes for Pollen fertility and pollen germination. The highest mean performance for percentage of pollen fertility was recorded by KUPL20010 (95%) followed by KUPL19012 (93%), Co5 (93%), KUPL20011 (92%). The above-mentioned genotypes can be utilized as parents for hybridization programmes for developing high-yielding varieties. The lowest performers of these traits are KUPL20007 (42%), KUPL20005 (53%), KUPL20003(57%) and KUPL20026 (58%) can further be utilized to develop male sterile parents which can be used in large scale hybrid development programmes. The lowest mean performance for pollen germination were recorded by KUPL20017 (10.46%) followed by KUPL20024 (21.00%) and KUPL20019 (23.22).','Pigeonpea, redgram, Pollen fertility, Aceto-carmine, Pollen viability','Pigeonpea being a mysterious crop among the pulses by its unexploitable genomes, baffling modes of pollination and inexplicable breeding behaviours. Further in-depth exploitation into its floral biology may provide some scope for developing high-yielding varieties and hybrids. Testing the viability of pollen through in-vitro pollen germination is a dependable approach. The outcomes of this study revealed that the lines KUPL20010, KUPL20012, and KUPL20011 can be utilized as parents for hybridization programmes for developing high-yielding varieties. Genotypes KUPL20007, KUPL20005, KUPL20003 and KUPL20026 can further be utilized to develop male sterile parents which can be used in large-scale hybrid development programmes. The other lines KUPL20017, KUPL20024 and KUPL20019 can be utilized as experimental materials to further exploit Self Incompatibility. Since there is a dearth of information regarding pigeonpea pollen characteristics, this study serves as a valuable reference for breeders seeking to create robust strains of pigeonpea with superior productivity and resistance to diseases and pests.','-','Pavithran P. and Indira Petchiammal K. (2023). Studies on Pollen Fertility and in vitro Pollen Germination in Medium duration Genotypes of Pigeonpea (Cajanus cajan (Millsp.) L.). Biological Forum – An International Journal, 15(5): 928-932.'),(6724,'157','Estimation of Total Phenolic and Flavonoid content, Antibacterial and Antioxidant Potential of Tridax procumbens Linn. from Paschim Medinipur','Arnab Bera and Nilanjana Banerjee','Estimation-of-Total-Phenolic-and-Flavonoid-content,-Antibacterial-and-Antioxidant-Potential-of-Tridax-procumbens-Linn.-from-Paschim-Medinipur-Nilanjana-Banerjee-138.pdf','',1,'Since the dawn of time, people have employed plants as a major source of biologically active compounds. Due to toxicity of synthetic drugs and ongoing emergence of bacterial resistance, there is a growing urgency for plant based medication. Tridax procumbens L., a small weed of Asteraceae, is widely recognized for its therauptical properties. Investigating phytochemical components (flavonoids and phenolics), antioxidant and antibacterial capability of Tridax procumbens L. were the goals of the current study. Using methanol and water as solvents, the phytochemicals were extracted from the plant. Deploying the 1,1-diphenyl-2-picryl-hydrazyl (DPPH) technique, antioxidant activity was assessed. The broth dilution technique was used to find out antibacterial activity. The methanolic extract showed better antioxidant capability compared to the aqueous extract and it also prevented the growth of gram positive bacteria (Staphylococcus aureus MTCC 87) at a concentration of 0.8 mg/ml. The findings of this study imply that the plant can be employed as a source of natural antioxidant and antibacterial agent.','Tridax procumbens, Antioxidant, Antibacterial, Polyphenols, Flavonoids','According to the current study’s findings, methanolic extract of T. procumbens exhibit strong antioxidant activity that was found to positively correlate with the phenolic and flavonoid content of the plant. Methanolic extract also showed antibacterial potential against Staphylococcus aureus. Based on the results of this study, it can be concluded that T. procumbens is a potential source of natural antioxidants. It can also be used to treat skin infections caused by Staphylococcus aureus although toxicity and in vivo studies are required to be conducted.','-','Arnab Bera and Nilanjana Banerjee (2023). Estimation of Total Phenolic and Flavonoid content, Antibacterial and Antioxidant Potential of Tridax procumbens Linn. from Paschim Medinipur. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 15(5): 933-936.'),(6725,'157','Association Analysis Studies in Mung bean (Vigna radiata (L.) Wilczek) Genotypes for Yield and its Contributing Traits','R. Aravinth, John Kingsly N.B., Wilson D., Adlin Pricilla Vasanthi and Dinesh Kumar P.','Association-Analysis-Studies-in-Mung-bean-(Vigna-radiata-(L.)-Wilczek)-Genotypes-for-Yield-and-its-Contributing-Traits-John-Kingsly-NB-139.pdf','',1,'Green gram (Vigna radiata L. Wilczek) is a vital pulse crop in India, providing a significant source of protein for the predominantly vegetarian population. However, the productivity of green gram is currently low, and there is a need to develop high-yielding varieties that are resistant to diseases and pests while maintaining nutritional value. In this study, a total of 94 green gram genotypes were evaluated to assess the relationships between yield and various contributing traits. Correlation and path coefficient analyses were performed to determine the associations between traits and yield. The results revealed significant positive correlations between yield and its contributing traits such as plant height, number of primary branches per plant, number of clusters per plant, number of pods per plant, number of seeds per pod, hundred seed weight, and harvest index. These findings were consistent with previous studies, further supporting the importance of these traits in determining yield potential of green gram. Path coefficient analysis identified harvest index as the trait with the highest positive direct effect on yield, followed by days to fifty per cent flowering. However, indirect effects were observed between early flowering and traits such as the number of pods per plant and protein content. Similarly, the number of primary branches per plant and number of clusters per plant exhibited negative direct effects on yield, indicating potential limitations in maximizing yield. Overall, this study provides valuable insights into the relationships between yield and its contributing traits in green gram. The findings can guide plant breeding programs in selecting and prioritizing traits to develop improved varieties with enhanced yield potential. Additionally, these identified trait associations contribute to a deeper understanding of the genetic and physiological mechanisms governing yield determination, facilitating more targeted and efficient crop improvement efforts. Association analysis studies in mung bean genotypes face various challenges when assessing yield and its contributing traits. One of the primary obstacles is the extensive phenotypic variation observed in mung bean, which makes it difficult to accurately measure and characterize these traits across different genotypes. Factors such as growth habit, flowering time, pod setting, and seed size contribute to this complexity, further complicating the phenotypic evaluation. Another challenge lies in the genetic complexity of mung bean genomes, which are influenced by both additive and non-additive genetic effects. Yield and its contributing traits are controlled by multiple genes, and their expression can be influenced by environmental interactions. Understanding the intricate genetic architecture and deciphering the effects of individual genes amidst complex genetic interactions pose significant challenges for researchers. To ensure reliable results, association analysis requires a substantial sample size of genotypes that adequately represents the genetic diversity within mung bean. Obtaining a diverse and representative set of genotypes is crucial for accurate analysis. ','Association studies, green gram, correlation, path coefficient, crop improvement','In conclusion, the correlation analysis, considering both genotypic and phenotypic coefficients, has provided valuable insights into the relationships between yield and its contributing traits. The findings highlight the significance of traits such as plant height, number of primary branches per plant, number of clusters per plant, number of pods per plant, number of seeds per pod, hundred seed weight, and harvest index in determining yield potential. These results are consistent with previous studies, confirming the importance of these traits in maximizing yield. Additionally, the correlation analysis revealed interesting associations among the traits themselves, shedding light on their combined contribution to yield enhancement.\r\nThe path coefficient analysis further elucidated the direct effects of each trait on yield per plant. Harvest index emerged as the trait with the highest positive direct effect on yield, indicating its crucial role in overall yield performance. Days to fifty per cent flowering also showed a positive direct effect on yield, suggesting that early-flowering varieties have the potential to achieve higher yields. However, trade-offs and indirect effects among traits were observed, emphasizing the need for a holistic approach in trait selection.\r\nThe comprehensive understanding provided by these analyses has practical implications for plant breeding programs. Breeders can prioritize and select traits based on their positive correlations and direct effects on yield, such as harvest index and early flowering. By targeting these key traits, improved varieties with enhanced yield potential can be developed. Furthermore, the identified trait associations can guide future research on the underlying genetic mechanisms governing these relationships, facilitating more targeted and efficient crop improvement efforts.\r\nOverall, the correlation and path coefficient analyses offer valuable insights into the complex relationships between yield and its contributing traits. These findings contribute to our understanding of crop yield determination and can inform breeders and researchers in their efforts to develop high-yielding and resilient crop varieties to meet the increasing demands for food security and sustainability.\r\n','-','R. Aravinth, John Kingsly N.B., Wilson D., Adlin Pricilla Vasanthi and Dinesh Kumar P. (2023). Association Analysis Studies in Mung bean (Vigna radiata (L.) Wilczek) Genotypes for Yield and its Contributing Traits. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 15(5): 937-942.'),(6726,'157','Effect of Transplanting Time and Spacing on Growth and Flower Yield in Gaillardia (Gaillardia pulchella Foug.) cv. Local','J.S. Patel, H.H. Sitapara, M.J. Patel and K.D. Rathod','Effect-of-Transplanting-Time-and-Spacing-on-Growth-and-Flower-Yield-in-Gaillardia-(Gaillardia-pulchella-Foug.)-cv.-Local-KD-Rathod-140.pdf','',1,'Transplanting time and spacing influences flowering and many other aspects of plant growth and development in flower crops. Therefore, the present study aimed to evaluate the effect of transplanting time and spacing on growth and flower yield in gaillardia cv. Local using RBD (factorial) design comprising two factors i.e., Factor 1- transplanting time (P) viz., P1 -First week of December, P2 -First week of January and P3 -First week of February and Factor 2- Spacing (S) viz., S1 -90 × 60 cm, S2 -60 × 60 cm, S3 -60 × 45 cm and S4 -45 × 45 cm. Experiment was conducted for three years (2018-19, 2019-20 & 2020-21). Treatments were repeated thrice. Among different time of transplanting, P1- First week of December significantly influenced growth and yield parameters. With regards to different spacing, the seedlings transplanted at 90 × 60 cm (S1) improved growth as well as yield attributes. However, S4 - 45 × 45 cm gave higher yield per hectare. Interaction effect of P1S2 i.e. transplanted during first week of December at 60 × 60 cm recorded significantly maximum plant spread, whereas maximum flower diameter, average weight of flowers and flower yield per plant observed with P1S1 i.e. transplanted during first week of December at 90 × 60 cm. The treatment combination P1S4 i.e. seedlings transplanted during first week of December at 45 × 45 cm recorded significantly maximum flower yield per hectare.','Gaillardia, transplanting time, spacing, growth, flower yield','From the three years of field study, it can be concluded that the farmers of Middle Gujarat agro climatic zone growing gaillardia crop cv. Local for getting flower in summer season are recommended to transplant the healthy seedlings at 45 × 45 cm during the first week of December for getting higher flower yield.','-','J.S. Patel, H.H. Sitapara, M.J. Patel and K.D. Rathod (2023). Effect of Transplanting Time and Spacing on Growth and Flower Yield in Gaillardia (Gaillardia pulchella Foug.) cv. Local. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 15(5): 943-946.'),(6727,'157','Studies on Growth and Developmental Stages of invasive Fall Armyworm Spodoptera frugiperda (J.E. Smith) on Maize in India','Vani Sree K., Nagesh Kumar M.V., Upendhar S., Mallaiah B., Bhadru D. and Sivalakshmi Y.','Studies-on-Growth-and-Developmental-Stages-of-invasive-Fall-Armyworm-Spodoptera-frugiperda-(J.E.-Smith)-on-Maize-in-India-Vani-Sree-K-141.pdf','',1,'The present study was designed to understand the FAW biology, growth and development behaviour under tropical conditions. FAW rearing under controlled laboratory conditions under Indian subcontinent conditions is a challenging task as it is a invasive pest emerging as a serious threat for maize cultivation. FAW rearing under laboratory conditions were done during July-September 2021 at Maize research Centre, Hyderabad using a natural maize-based diet under controlled conditions. Field collected FAW egg masses were reared using maize leaf and stalk based diet with controlled temperature at 27 ± 1 °C, 60 ± 5% relative humidity and 12 h day length. The neonates were used for the laboratory studies to document the FAW biology. The study generated most useful insights on FAW growth and developmental stages. The larval stage recorded six instars with longest mean duration of 23.60 days among the other stages of life cycle. The mean duration of egg, pupa and adult stages were recorded 4.00, 8.90 and 8.30 days, respectively. ','Fall army worm, biology, egg, larva, pupal stages, natural diet and life cycle','The present study documented the salient features of FAW growth and development stages under controlled conditions with few specific observations in egg laying pattern under laboratory conditions. Third instar larvae identification is crucial for screening the germplasm and damage pattern, the present study has given clear photographs and insights for the identification hence, this will useful for resistance breeding programmes.','-','Vani Sree K., Nagesh Kumar M.V., Upendhar S., Mallaiah B., Bhadru D. and Sivalakshmi Y. (2023). Studies on Growth and Developmental Stages of invasive Fall Armyworm Spodoptera frugiperda (J.E. Smith) on Maize in India. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 15(5): 947-953.'),(6728,'157','Growth and Phenology of Dual Purpose Barley as Influenced by Nitrogen Dose and Seed Rate','Amit Sharma, A.K. Dhaka, Bhagat Singh, Kamal, Simran Jasht and Mohit Godara','Growth-and-Phenology-of-Dual-Purpose-Barley-as-Influenced-by-Nitrogen-Dose-and-Seed-Rate-Amit-Sharma-142.pdf','',1,'Animal husbandry occupies an important role and there is a big gap between demand and supply of forage. As the problem of the supply of feed and forage has become so serious due to the increasing number of animals and the limited land resources, and the expense of feeding makes up around 65-70% of all livestock production. So, keeping these things in view a field experiment was conducted during Rabi season 2019-20 at wheat and barley section research area of CCS Haryana Agricultural University, Hisar. The experiment was comprised of three nitrogen doses (N1-60, N2-75 and N3- 90 kg N/ha) as main plot treatments and four seed rates (S1- 87.5, S2- 100, S3- 112.5 and S4-125.0 kg/ha) as sub plot treatments. Experiment was laid out in split plot design with four replications. The goal of this study was to look into how the nitrogen dose and seed rate affect growth of dual-purpose barley. Based on the research investigation, it was found that nitrogen dose and seed rate both had significantly influenced the growth of dual purpose barley. Among nitrogen doses, 90 kg/ha being at par with 75 kg/ha recorded significantly higher plant height, dry matter accumulation, crop growth rate and leaf area index (2.64) at all stages of crop growth than nitrogen dose of 60 kg/ha, respectively. Progressive increase in the days taken to booting, heading and maturity was recorded with increase in nitrogen doses from 60 to 90 kg/ha. Among seed rates, 125.0 kg/ha closely followed by 112.5 kg/ha recorded significantly higher plant height, dry matter accumulation, crop growth rate and leaf area index (2.85) at all stages of crop growth than seed rate of 87.5 kg/ha, respectively. Significant increase in plant population was recorded with increase in seed rate from 87.5 to 125.0 kg/ha.','Dual purpose barley, seed rate, nitrogen dose, growth, phenology, leaf area index','Based on field research experiment, it is concluded that increasing nitrogen dose from 60 to 90 kg/ha progressively increased growth of dual purpose barley but delayed maturity. Among seed rates, 125.0 kg/ha closely followed by 112.5 kg/ha recorded significantly higher plant populations, plant height, dry matter accumulation, crop growth rate and leaf area index at all stages of crop growth than seed rate of 87.5 kg/ha, respectively. So, to obtain higher growth for dual purpose barley (green fodder cut at 55 DAS and left after that for grain production), variety BH 946 should be sown using optimum seed rate of 125.0 kg/ha and nitrogen dose of 90 kg/ha.','-','Amit Sharma, A.K. Dhaka, Bhagat Singh, Kamal, Simran Jasht and Mohit Godara (2023). Growth and Phenology of Dual Purpose Barley as Influenced by Nitrogen Dose and Seed Rate. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 15(5): 954-959.'),(6729,'157','Screening of Antibacterial, Antioxidant and Phytochemical of Leaf, Stem and Root extracts of Annona squamosa L. against Pathogenic Bacteria','Gama Mohan M. G. and K. R. Beula Rani','Screening-of-antibacterial,-antioxidant-and-phytochemical-of-leaf,-stem-and-root-extracts-of-Annona-squamosa-L.-against-pathogenic-bacteria-Gama-Mohan-MG-143.pdf','',1,'In India, Annona squamosa L. is commonly used as a traditional medicine to treat various illnesses. The antibacterial properties of extracts from Annona squamosa leaves, stems, and roots were investigated using two strains of gram-positive bacteria (Bacillus subtilis and Staphylococcus aureus) and two strains of gram-negative bacteria (Escherichia coli and Pseudomonas aeruginosa). The antibacterial components were extracted sequentially using solvents such as hexane, chloroform, ethyl acetate, methanol, and an aqueous solution. The antimicrobial properties of the extracts were determined using the agar well diffusion method. It was found that the root extracts of A. squamosa exhibited higher antibacterial activity compared to the leaf and stem extracts. Specifically, the chloroform extracts of A. squamosa roots were found to be effective against E. coli and B. subtilis. In this study, the antioxidant capacity of the leaf, stem, and root extracts of A. squamosa was also tested using the DPPH free radical scavenging method. The aim of this study is to provide a comprehensive summary of the chemical components present in the leaf, stem, and root extracts of A. squamosa, as well as the wide range of phytochemicals described in the study. Due to the increasing prevalence of multi-drug resistant pathogens, these findings support the therapeutic applications of this plant in traditional medicine, enhancing its therapeutic value.','Anti-bacterial, Annona squamosa, Agar well diffusion method, Traditional medicine','Traditional plants have long been recognized for their beneficial effects on human health, attributed to the presence of active phytochemical constituents. Based on the findings of the current study, it can be inferred that Annona squamosa is rich in antibacterial, antioxidant, and phytochemical characteristics. The study evaluated the antimicrobial, antioxidant, and phytochemical properties of leaf, stem, and root extracts from multiple samples.\r\nThe results indicated that certain solvents triggered activity in some extracts, while others did not. Specifically, chloroform root extracts exhibited significant antibacterial activity, while methanolic root extracts showed high antioxidant properties. Additionally, most of the tested phytochemicals were found to be present in the root extracts.\r\nThe primary focus of this study was to explore the potential use of A. squamosa extracts from leaves, stems, and roots as a source of antibacterial agents for the treatment of digestive diseases. The investigation demonstrated that A. squamosa roots possess strong antibacterial and antioxidant properties, along with various phytochemical constituents. This suggests that further research on A. squamosa, such as its potential antidiabetic action, may unveil additional beneficial properties and mechanisms.\r\n','-','Gama Mohan M. G. and K. R. Beula Rani (2023). Screening of antibacterial, antioxidant and phytochemical of leaf, stem and root extracts of Annona squamosa L. against pathogenic bacteria. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 15(5): 960-969.'),(6730,'157','A Study on Milking Practices Adopted by Karauli Goat Farmers in Dang Area of Rajasthan','Dheeraj Kumar, Lokesh Gupta, Siddhartha Mishra, Mahesh Chandra Mathur, Deepak Kumar and Anita Kumari Meena\r\n','A-Study-on-Milking-Practices-Adopted-by-Karauli-Goat-Farmers-in-Dang-Area-of-Rajasthan-D-Kumar-144.pdf','',1,'The purpose of this study is to draw attention to the value of goat milk as well as the potential and future growth of dairy goats in the nation. India has a large caprine resource base, with 37 distinct goat breeds scattered across several bioclimatic region. India is the country that produces the most goat milk worldwide. Due to increased awareness of the therapeutic, nutraceutical, and medical advantages of goat milk and its products, as well as their potential for export, commercial dairy goat rearing in India has became more popular in recent years. The present investigation was carried out to study milking practices adopted by Karauli goat farmers in Dang area of Karauli and Sawai Madhopur districts Rajasthan. Information was collected through personal interviewswith160 Karauli goat farmers (80 from each district). Majority (89.37 per cent) of Karauli goat farmers followed the knuckling method of milking. All the Karauli goat farmers milked their goats twice a day. Most of the Karauli goat farmers (76.25 per cent) do not wash the udder and teats and their hands before milking. All three types of utensils bucket, brass pot and bhagona were used for milking and their use by the farmers was 37.50, 35.00 and 27.50 per cent, respectively. Majority (46.25 per cent) of the Karauli goat farmers used sand and clean water for cleaning of milking utensils followed by ash with water (44.37 per cent) and cleaning detergent with water (9.37 per cent) in the present study area.','Karauli, Goat farmers, milking practices and knuckling',' The findings of the present study showed that majority of Karauli goat farmers followed knuckling method of milking. Farmers milked their goats twice a day which is good for getting maximum milk yield. Farmers do not follow cleaning udder and teats before milking and washing their hands before milking. Farmers used bucket for milking which is good utensils for milking. Farmers used sand and clean water for cleaning utensils. Other significant problems with goat dairy growth include milk acquisition, processing, and marketing. These problems may be resolved by providing the right legislative support, offering incentives, and working with state-level milk production federations to acquire goat milk and add value. The present study suggests creating awareness among Karauli goat farmers about proper scientific milking practices and hygiene maintenance during the milking process to avoid unhealthy milk production. ','-','Dheeraj Kumar, Lokesh Gupta, Siddhartha Mishra, Mahesh Chandra Mathur, Deepak Kumar and Anita Kumari Meena (2023). A Study on Milking Practices Adopted by Karauli Goat Farmers in Dang Area of Rajasthan. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 15(5): 970-973.'),(6731,'157','Preparation and Characterization of Berberine-loaded Dextrose-modified Nanostructured Lipid Carriers','Neelu Singh, Himanshu Bhaskar and Shubhini A. Saraf ','Preparation-and-Characterization-of-Berberine-loaded-Dextrose-modified-Nanostructured-Lipid-Carriers-Neelu-Singh-145.pdf','',1,'Rheumatoid arthritis (RA) is an autoimmune ailment that manifests rapidly in troublesome locomotive activity and often restricted movements in patients. The conventional therapy for RA is done through NSAIDs but often showed unsatisfactory therapeutic outcomes. Recently nature derived anti-arthritic phytoconstituents have been explored for RA therapy. Berberine (Br) has attained considerable attention as a natural xenobiotic for RA therapy. However, its use is restricted due to extensive first-pass elimination, low aqueous solubility, low permeability, and low oral bioavailability. Lipodal drug delivery systems can address these challenges thus in the present research, we have formulated dextrose (DEX) modified Br-loaded Nanostructured Lipid Carriers (NLCs) employing the melt-emulsification method. The prepared DEX-Br-NLCs were assessed for percent entrapment, drug loading, in-vitro release and cytotoxicity on HEK-293T cells. The prepared DEX-Br-NLCs exhibited a particle size of 200.9±0.53 nm, percent entrapment of 68.42±1.51%, drug loading of 3.58±0.14% and 80.32±6.65% drug release respectively over a period of 24 hr. Internalization of Rhodamine loaded DEX-Br- NLCs was confirmed via cellular uptake study. Cytotoxicity studies revealed that the prepared formulation was non-toxic. Thus DEX-Br-NLCs were successfully prepared, which might further improve the oral bioavailability, solubility and permeability of Br and produced controlled release of the drug localized inflammation.','Berberine, Rheumatoid arthritis, NLCs, Complete Freund’s adjuvant, Auto-immune','In summary, DEX-Br-NLCs were prepared successfully. Results indicate that the entrapment of Br into NLCs showed great potential to deliver the drug efficiently to the predetermined desired site witnessing shielding effect on the encased drug during transit against the wide pH variability throughout GIT, HEK293T cells showed no significant toxicity. The in vitro release studies displayed that the formulated lipid matrix delivered a controlled release drug and the stability studies demonstrated that NLCs were stable when stored for a long period. ','-','Neelu Singh, Himanshu Bhaskar and Shubhini A. Saraf (2023). Preparation and Characterization of Berberine-loaded Dextrose-modified Nanostructured Lipid Carriers. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 15(5): 974-980.'),(6732,'147','Evaluation of Putative Mutant Population of Papaya cv. Arka Prabhath for improved Biochemical Traits','Navya V. Bhat, Dinesh M.R., Vageeshbabu S. Hanur, Gobinda C. Acharya \r\nand D.V. Sudhakar Rao','Evaluation-of-Putative-Mutant-Population-of-Papaya-cv.-Arka-Prabhath-for-improved-Biochemical-Traits-Navya-V-Bhat-123.pdf','',1,'Papaya (Carica papaya L.) is one of the most important tropical fruit crop that has wide acceptance as a commercial crop for local and export purposes. It is being climacteric, perishable in nature and have low shelf life hence needs an improvement in terms of quality with improved shelf life. Mutation breeding has been an effective approach to produce improved varieties with desirable traits. In fruit crops, mutation breeding is preferable over conventional breeding because it prevents segregating progenies while refining the genetic composition through selection cycles. TILLING-based mutagenesis was undertaken to induce the variability by irradiating the seeds of papaya cv. Arka Prabhath with gamma rays ranging from 50 to 500 Gy. The outstanding mutant lines were evaluated for improved biochemical traits. Results revealed that there was significant increase in biochemical traits such as total soluble solids, Ascorbic acid, sugars, total carotenoids and lycopene content among various selected twenty-one mutant lines in comparison to control Arka Prabhath while there was reduction in acidity of the fruits. The highest ascorbic acid content of 65.63 mg/100g was recorded in line R17P19 with excellent taste among selected M1 lines of papaya in contrast to control (33.13 mg/100g). Further, based on the estimation of fruit peel and pulp colour it was indicated that there was huge variation for pulp colour with delayed ripening. This indicates the efficacy of mutagen to induce variability in terms of fruit quality and shelf life.','Papaya, Arka Prabhath, mutation, pulp colour, shelf life','The results from the evaluation of putative mutant population indicates that gamma rays an effective tool to inducing mutation. It provides an opportunity to develop varieties with improved quality and taste with good biochemical composition. Considerable changes in the fruit peel and pulp colour was observed in this study which makes a way for developing attractive cultivars which are rich in antioxidants and it also meets the different market preferences with increased shelf life and delayed ripening.','-','Navya V. Bhat, Dinesh M.R., Vageeshbabu S. Hanur, Gobinda C. Acharya and D.V. Sudhakar Rao (2022). Evaluation of Putative Mutant Population of Papaya cv. Arka Prabhath for improved Biochemical Traits. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 14(4a): 723-728.'),(6733,'157','Explore Pyocyanin Pigment extracted from Pseudomonas spp as Plant Growth Promoter','Leena Dhake and Nutan Rathod','Explore-Pyocyanin-Pigment-extracted-from-Pseudomonas-spp-as-Plant-Growth-Promoter-Leena-Dhake-146.pdf','',1,'Agriculture is a source of income for over 55% of India\'s population. Chemical fertilizer and pesticides are used by farmers to increase productivity and profits. Increased use of chemical fertilizers and pesticides results in recalcitrant problems and harm to the texture of the soil. The use of biological agents to boost productivity and manage pests has been extensively researched as a solution. When utilized as bio-fertilizers or plant growth promoters, biological agents had stability and soil condition issues that prevented them from producing the best results. The most prevalent bacteria in the rhizosphere are Pseudomonas spp. It produces several metabolites in the soil, one of which is pyocyanin. It is a water-soluble blue-green phenazine pigment. In present studies Pseudomonas spp was isolated from a petrol pump soil sample near Jalgaon city. Pyocyanin pigment was extracted from the isolated organism using chloroform and HCl System. Pycocyanin\'s potential as a plant growth stimulant has been investigated. Extracted pigment was analysed and confirmed by UV visible Spectrophotometer, FTIR and HPLC. In UV- Visible spectrophotometer analysis absorption was observed at 520nm. FTIR analysis revealed different functional groups (-OH, C=N, -CH3, etc.) which belong to the aromatic structure of pyocyanin. HPLC analysis revealed three peaks with retention durations of 4.572, 5.009, and 5.295 with acetonitrile as mobile phase.','Pyocyanin, Phenazine, pigment, Pseudomonas, plant growth promoter','The current study found that Pseudomonas spp. pigment is a naturally occurring material with the potential of function as a bio-fertilizer, contributing in accelerating the development of an environmentally friendly alternative to chemical fertilizers. For the benefit of society, its use as a fertiliser should be further investigated, along with toxicity testing.','-','Leena Dhake and Nutan Rathod (2023). Explore Pyocyanin Pigment extracted from Pseudomonas spp as Plant Growth Promoter. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 15(5): 981-987.'),(6734,'157','Optimization of α-amylase Production from a Novel Bacterial Strain, Geobacillus kaustophilus Strain AN11, Employing Response Surface Methodology','Asama Nadaf and Nasir R. Shaikh','Optimization-of-α-amylase-Production-from-a-Novel-Bacterial-Strain,-Geobacillus-kaustophilus-Strain-AN11,-Employing-Response-Surface-Methodology-Asama-Nadaf-147.pdf','',1,'To overcome numerous industrial barriers, it is critical to investigate thermostable α-amylase-producing bacteria in demanding conditions. This study aimed to identify and characterize α-amylase-producing bacteria isolated from hot springs. The isolates were identified as Geobacillus kaustophilus strain AN11 based on their molecular characterization. An optimization technique based on statistical experimental design is applied to increase thermostable α-amylase production by a thermotolerant Geobacillus kaustophilus strain AN11 isolate. The pH, temperature, salt (NaCl) level, and nitrogen supply (tryptophan) were found to have a substantial influence on enzyme production using the one variant at a time approach. The response surface methodology (RSM) was used to determine the optimal process conditions among the variables picked. A Box-Behnken design was utilized to develop a polynomial quadratic model that correlated the link between the four variables and α-amylase activity. The optimum culture variables for α-amylase synthesis were pH 5, temperature 40oC, tryptophan 0.6 gm, and NaCl 2.52 gm. Temperature studies demonstrated that the crude enzyme had the highest activity and stability at 60, 65, and 70°C. The temperature and α-amylase production had a linear relationship. Thus, molecular identification of this novel strain Geobacillus kaustophilus strain AN11 isolates, purification, and production of amylases are proposed for effective application in various industries. Industrial detergent\'s effectiveness to wash clothes might be enhanced by adding enzymes to the detergent. This study has shown that these thermostable bacteria are a great supply of amylase that may be employed commercially to sustain economic activity.','α-amylase, Response surface methodology, Industries, Enzymes, Box-Behnken','Amylases account for thirty percent of the world\'s total requirement for enzymes and find applications in the paper, health care, and cleaning product industries, amongst many others. The newly identified bacterial strain Geobacillus kaustophilus strain AN11 can be employed to produce amylase because it is a potentially affordable source for the enzyme. Thermophilic amylase can be produced at a relatively low incubation temperature (60oC), and the enzyme was thermostable after being exposed to 70oC for 72 hours. RSM statistical software is quite helpful in scientific investigations comprising the identification of the key factors or the responses of these key factors on the multi-factor dependent variables. Based on the RSM findings, the enzyme activity was at its peak at a pH of 5 and temperature 40°C. In this study, we found that altering the nitrogen source resulted in the highest enzyme activity. Concentrations of tryptophan greater than 0.6 gm are not ideal for growth. Enzyme activity peaked at a concentration of 0.4 gm tryptophan. The optimal salt concentration for enzyme activity was 2.52 gm. As a follow-up investigation to validate the techno-feasibility of its mass commercial production, further method validation for the scaled-up production techniques is preferred.','-','Asama Nadaf and Nasir R. Shaikh (2023). Optimization of α-amylase Production from a Novel Bacterial Strain, Geobacillus kaustophilus Strain AN11, Employing Response Surface Methodology. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 15(5): 988-993.'),(6735,'151','Biochemical Evaluation of Different Mulberry Varieties-A Review','Tajamul Islam','Biochemical-Evaluation-of-Different-Mulberry-varieties-a-review-Tajamul-Islam-3.pdf','',1,'Mulberry plant is the sole food of silkworm, Bombyx mori as it is a monophagous insect which falls under order Lepidoptera. The quality mulberry leaves should be the main focus of silkworm rearers, because after feeding quality mulberry leaves, the healthy growth of larva occurs and finally leads to the formation of quality cocoon crop. The mulberry varieties vary in the biochemical constitution of leaves viz., proteins, carbohydrates, amino acids, ascorbic acid etc which are needed for the proper growth and development of silkworms, hence the selection of quality mulberry plants is of prime importance to yield maximum benefits.','Biochemical, Evaluation, Different, Quality, Mulberry varieties','Mulberry varieties differ in the biochemical constitution of leaves and also differ with regard to the position of the leaves on the branches. Comparatively the tender mulberry leaves are found to contain most of the biochemical constituents in higher concentration followed by medium and coarse leaves. The mulberry leaves which are rich in optimum level of nutrients are found to accelerate the healthy growth of worms which reflects in the better silk gland development and increased cocoon crop production. Therefore, the careful selection and development of new mulberry varieties with respect to the regions acquires importance for the overall development of the sericulture industry.','-','-'),(6736,'157','Proximate and Microbial Analysis of Developed Hydrolyzed Carbonated Whey Beverage with Pomegranate Peel Extract and Guava Leaves Extract','Fathimath Naurin K.A., Marx Nirmal R., Ayyavoo Preamnath Manoharan and Karthikeyan N.','Proximate-and-Microbial-Analysis-of-Developed-Hydrolyzed-Carbonated-Whey-Beverage-with-Pomegranate-Peel-Extract-and-Guava-Leaves-Extract-Fathimath-Naurin-KA-148.pdf','',1,'The present study aim on the proximate and microbial analysis of developed carbonated beverage using lactose hydrolyzed whey by lactase enzyme at pH 6.6. Proper utilization of whey can be considered as a big challenge in dairy industry. Whey beverages were prepared by blending sugar (10%), pomegranate peel extract (3%) and guava leaves extract (3%) to the hydrolyzed whey. Carbonation was done by the injection of CO2. The proximate analysis such as moisture, protein, fat, total solids, lactose and ash (%) content in the developed whey beverage was analyzed and the values were 89.94, 0.98, 0.064, 11.12, 0.79 and 0.53 respectively. Proximate analysis of product shows that the developed beverage is a protein rich, low fat and low lactose. Microbial analysis was carried out for carbonated whey beverage and results showed that there was no growth of aerobic bacteria up to 28th day of storage, no growth of yeast and mold up to 14th day of storage and no growth of coliform throughout the storage period at 4°. The low microbial growth in the product may be attributed by the effect of carbonation and antimicrobial properties of pomegranate peel and guava leaves extract. The developed beverage is protein rich with low lactose and low fat and the antibacterial properties of pomegranate and guava leaves helped in extending the shelf life. This study will be helpful in proper utilization of whey in dairy industry.','Pomegranate peel extract, Guava leaves extract, Proximate analysis, Protein, Microbial analysis, Coliforms, Whey beverage','The proximate and microbial analysis showed that the developed beverage is a protein rich and nutritious and acceptable by lactose intolerant people and it as shelf stable upto 56 days of storage at 4°. The antibacterial property of the pomegranate peel and guava leaves enhanced the microbial quality of the product. The developed product is healthy protein rich. Low microbial growth in the product may be attributed by the effect of carbonation and antimicrobial properties of pomegranate peel and guava leaves extract. Since carbonated beverages are new trend in beverage industry, the project will have vast scope.','-','Fathimath Naurin K.A., Marx Nirmal R., Ayyavoo Preamnath Manoharan and Karthikeyan N. (2023). Proximate and Microbial Analysis of Developed Hydrolyzed Carbonated Whey Beverage with Pomegranate Peel Extract and Guava Leaves Extract. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 15(5): 994-998.'),(6737,'157','Availability and Requirement of Millet Feed and Fodder for Ruminants in Andhra Pradesh: An Analysis','Sangappa, K. Chandhini, D. Rafi, Laxmi B., Sandhya and E. Charishma','Availability-and-Requirement-of-Millet-Feed-and-Fodder-for-Ruminants-in-Andhra-Pradesh-An-Analysis-D-Rafi-149.pdf','',1,'Agriculture and animal husbandry are closely intertwined and mutually dependent on each for promoting food security, rural development, economic growth, building society, and incorporating cultural, religious believes. Mixed farming and livestock rearing play a crucial role in rural life. Livestock plays a significant role in the global agricultural sector, accounting for 40% of its total value. The availability of sufficient quantity of feed and fodder plays a crucial role in affecting the productivity and performance of animals. Availability and requirement of millets as feed and fodder to various livestock population in comparison with different crops of Andhra Pradesh was analysed in this study. The data pertaining to availability and requirement of millets as feed and fodder was collected from 1991 to 2020 by using various sources and availability of millets as feed was calculated by means of crop residues, concentrates and greens. Descriptive statistics and CAGR was conducted for analysing the feed and fodder availability. The dry matter requirement for livestock ruminants was not stable (increasing and then decreasing) but the availability of feed resources was in positive trend with CAGR value of 0.011. Among various feed resources the availability of crop residues showed high positive CAGR value of 0.015. Adoption of millets as fodder to ruminants will balance the feed requirement of livestock. Availability of data was the major challenge faced but with the help of Directorate of Economics & Statistics data was collected and analyzed.','Livestock, Feed and Fodder, Millets, Availability, Requirement','Livestock plays a significant role in the Indian economy with 30.5 million people dependent on cattle for their livelihood. Livestock rearing supports the well-being of two-thirds of rural population in India. From the study it could be concluded that crop residues showed the positive trend over last three decades. There is a considerable increase in dry matter availability over the three decades when compared to the dry matter requirement. The dry matter requirement of livestock has increased from 1993 to 2007 and then decreased again due to improper feed efficiency, lack of best alternative feed resources, change in genetic selection and changing environmental considerations. Through best fodder-based millet cultivars, technology dissemination on millets will further increase crop residues availability with the same positive trend and acts as best alternative for feed and fodder for livestock.','-','Sangappa, K. Chandhini, D. Rafi, Laxmi B., Sandhya and E. Charishma (2023). Availability and Requirement of Millet Feed and Fodder for Ruminants in Andhra Pradesh: An Analysis. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 15(5): 999-1007.'),(6738,'157','Millet a Nutri-cereal: Nutritional Value, Health Benefits and Value Addition in Dairy Products','Sujith S., Soumyadish Sahoo, Cheeti Dheeraj, Magham Sathya Hemanth,\r\n Sudipa Saha, Atreyee Sarkar and Nupur Niharika\r\n','Millet-a-Nutri-cereal-Nutritional-Value,-Health-Benefits-and-Value-Addition-in-Dairy-Products-Soumyadish-Sahoo-150.pdf','',1,'Millets valued for their nutritional value includes vitamins, minerals, carbohydrates and dietary fibres source and potential health benefits. This review highlights the potentials of millets as a source of dietary fibre, vitamins and minerals in dairy products, thereby improving the nutritive value of dairy products. Millets are a rich in dietary fibre, calcium, iron, zinc, lipids and high-quality proteins. Millets are loaded with phytochemicals that have been shown to reduce the risk of cardiovascular, diabetic, celiac and gastrointestinal diseases. Utilization of millets in dairy products in the form of millet milk powder, ice-cream, kheer, paneer and the novel technologies related processing of these products are discussed. The main challenge faced by the dairy products are the lack of fibre, especially dietary fibre. Blending millets with the dairy products can solve this problem to a greater extent.Various positive evidences of inclusion of millets in dairy products to enhances the nutritional and functional properties of dairy products, with potentials reduction of digestive disorder such as lactose intolerance because of its rich dietary fibre and phytochemical content. Overall, to increase awareness about production and consumption of millets address food security to millions of households and contributes to the economic efficiency of farming.','Millets, health benefits, nutritional value, dietary fibre, dairy products','Millet is crucial for a flexible and diverse modern agricultural system that meets nutritional needs sustainably. Millet benefits health and provides income. Increased millet production and consumption in India will impact dairy industry. Although millet has health benefits, taste is crucial in determining if people eat it. This indicates that health awareness alone won’t encourage the consumption of millet. Therefore, there is a need for appetizing millet dairy products and other recipes. Adding millet to packaged foods benefits farmers and promotes mechanization to ease traditional processing. Government should incentivize millet cultivation with specific policy measures. Millet is a staple food for millions in poverty-stricken Asia and Africa. Millets are filling, high in carbs and can compensate for a lack of lysine in other protein sources. Expanding millet use depends on improving its characteristics. Millet consumption in industrialized countries will likely contribute to an industrial revolution.','-','Sujith S., Soumyadish Sahoo, Cheeti Dheeraj, Magham Sathya Hemanth, Sudipa Saha, Atreyee Sarkar and Nupur Niharika (2023). Millet a Nutri-cereal: Nutritional Value, Health Benefits and Value Addition in Dairy Products. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 15(5): 1008-1017.'),(6739,'157','Applications of Gluten-free Flours in Bakery Products Formulations: A Review','Akriti Thakur, Jaismeen and Manmath Sontakke','Applications-of-Gluten-free-Flours-in-Bakery-Products-Formulations-A-Review-Akriti-Thakur-151.pdf','',1,'Rising incidence related to gluten illness, have gained significant attention and more demand for gluten free diet. Generally, it is more difficult to make bakery and food products without gluten protein in wheat, barley and rye. It is necessary to find gluten-free substitute for baking ingredients as well as innovative ways to prepare existing ones. It is not limited with population with gluten-related problems, but also those who prioritize maintaining a healthy lifestyle and following a gluten-free diet, can be traced for the increase in demand for gluten-free goods. This review highlights potential of gluten free flour to as substitute to conventional wheat flour. The quality of gluten-free goods is among the most challenging things to develop. To produce gluten-free products, it is usual to fall back on the use of gluten-free flour either from cereal or from other grains, such as legumes or pseudo cereals. During products preparation, factors need to consider that affect the functionality of gluten-free flours. The main objective of this review is to provide an overview on the use of gluten-free flours in basic bakery products such bread, cakes, and cookies. This article also summaries various nutritional, functional, and physiochemical properties of different gluten-free flours and the applications of novel technological approaches. Various strategies used to enhance bakery goods free of gluten will produce a range of excellent results.','Gluten free flour, amaranth flour, buckwheat flour, bakery products','The demand for Gluten free food is projected to continue increasing in the future. Gluten free food development is still technically difficult, although research continues to find innovative techniques and methods that could offer a more effective solution for gluten free product development. It could be possible to prepare non-gluten bakery products like bread, cakes, and biscuits using single or combination of flours consisting cereals, pseudocereals, and legumes. In addition to ingredients, the use of innovative technologies yields additional solutions for the manufacture of high-quality gluten free products. Extrusion technology has the potential to improve starch gelatinization, which results in better functional properties and structural attributes. High-pressure treatment has the potential to form protein networks and starch gelatinization. Overall, efforts in the future should be concentrated more on advanced technological strategies, particularly those involving the high-pressure process and extrusion technology, both of which are promising in terms of product quality and time efficiency. However, there are still very few findings, especially in gluten-free bakery goods other than bread.','-','Akriti Thakur, Jaismeen and Manmath Sontakke (2023). Applications of Gluten-free Flours in Bakery Products Formulations: A Review. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 15(5): 1018-1023.'),(6740,'157','Histopathology and Immunohistochemistry Associated with Cutaneous Tumours in Canines','Aditya Sharma and Sheikh Uzma Farooq','Histopathology-and-Immunohistochemistry-Associated-With-Cutaneous-Tumours-in-Canines-Aditya-Sharma-152.pdf','',1,'The present study was designed to characterize and diagnose different spontaneously occurring canine cutaneous neoplasms. As there are different ways to diagnose and identify the tumours, it becomes important to determine the methodology for tumour detection. Conventional methods for diagnosis of tumours usually gives the idea whether the tumour is benign or malignant, however advanced methods such as immunohistochemistry and molecular tissue markers have also gained popularity due to the minute details they provide regarding the tumours. Twenty-nine tumour samples were collected from dogs irrespective of their sex, breed, age and were grouped as skin tumours based upon their anatomical location. Histopathological diagnosis of tumour samples evinced 12 benign skin tumours (perianal gland adenoma-5, trichoblastoma-4, trichofolliculoma-1, tricholemmoma-1 and haemangioma-1) and 17 malignant skin tumours (fibrosarcoma-6, mast cell tumour-3, apocrine adenocarcinoma-3, haemangiopericytoma-1, perianal gland adenocarcinoma-1, chondrosarcoma-1, melanoma-1, poorly differentiated carcinoma-1). A total of 10 cutaneous tumours were subjected to immunohistochemistry for various molecular markers, viz., F8, SMA, Desmin, S-100, p63 and ER. Various tumour subtypes were found positive for different IHC markers.','Cutaneous neoplasms, Histopathological, Benign, Malignant, Immunohistochemistry','It was deduced from the present investigations that advanced technique of immunohistochemistry alone, cannot aid in the proper grading, staging and characterization of tumours of the animal body. Although, it is comparatively easier to diagnose different benign tumours by cytology and histopathology but a combination of cytology, histopathology and immunohistochemistry are required for malignant tumours diagnosis. However molecular techniques are relatively very costly as compared to the conventional techniques of histopathology and cytology, hence its extensive use for veterinary purpose is still a challenge. ','-','Aditya Sharma and Sheikh Uzma Farooq (2023). Histopathology and Immunohistochemistry Associated With Cutaneous Tumours in Canines. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 15(5): 1024-1030.'),(6741,'134','A Study on Prevalence of Predominant Integrated Farming Systems in Coastal Odisha','Subrat Pattanaik, Khitish Sarangi, Sarbanarayan Mishra, Abhiram Dash and Arati Priyadarshini','A-Study-on-Prevalence-of-Predominant-Integrated-Farming-Systems-in-Coastal-Odisha-Subrat-Pattanaik-124.pdf','',4,'A study was conducted to investigate the prevalence and characteristics of predominant Integrated Farming Systems (IFS) in the coastal region of Odisha, India. Odisha being a coastal state in eastern India is the most disaster-vulnerable state in India where conventional farming practices are still being practiced. To enhance the food security and livelihoods of farmers, especially small and marginal farmers, IFS is being encouraged as a sustainable agricultural system that aims to increase productivity, reduce risk, and promote resilience in the face of disasters. Integrated Farming Systems involve the integration of various agricultural components, such as crops, livestock, fishery, and other allied activities, to enhance productivity, sustainability, and income generation. The study employed a combination of surveys, interviews, and field observations to collect data from a representative sample of farmers in the coastal region. Information was gathered on the types of farming systems practiced, the components integrated, and the extent of adoption among farmers. Preliminary findings indicate that the coastal region of Odisha has a significant presence of integrated farming practices. The predominant IFS observed include combinations of (Crop + Livestock), (Crop + Poultry), (Crop + Livestock + Poultry), (Crop + Livestock + Resource Generating), (Crop + Livestock + Fishery), and (Crop + Livestock + Fishery + Mushroom + Resource Generating) systems where FS IV generated high returns and FS-II was least profitable among 6 enterprises. The findings underscore the importance of IFS as a viable and sustainable farming strategy, contributing to increased agricultural productivity, environmental sustainability, and improved livelihoods. ','IFS, BCR, Predominant, Employment','The purpose of this study was to analyze the predominant Integrated Farming Systems practiced in Coastal Odisha. Efforts were made to systematically collate the data and analyze the share of each component in different farming systems. Preliminary findings indicate that IFS implementation in the coastal district of Odisha has demonstrated major economic outcomes from various farming systems. Out of numerous farming systems practiced only six (FS-I, FS-II, FS-III, FS-IV, FS-V and FS-VI) were selected which were more sustainable and economically viable farming systems, capable of addressing the challenges posed by climate change, resource limitations, and market dynamics in Odisha conditions. The study suggests that the adoption of IFS (FS-IV, FS-III and FS-VI) can have a significant increase in farm income and can promote resilience in the face of disasters and climate change. Therefore, there is a need for policymakers to promote IFS and provide the necessary support to farmers to adopt this sustainable and resilient agricultural approach.','-','Subrat Pattanaik, Khitish Sarangi, Sarbanarayan Mishra, Abhiram Dash and Arati Priyadarshini (2022). A Study on Prevalence of Predominant Integrated Farming Systems in Coastal Odisha. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 14(4a): 729-732.'),(6742,'147','A Study on Prevalence of Predominant Integrated Farming Systems in Coastal Odisha','Subrat Pattanaik, Khitish Sarangi, Sarbanarayan Mishra, Abhiram Dash and Arati Priyadarshini','A-Study-on-Prevalence-of-Predominant-Integrated-Farming-Systems-in-Coastal-Odisha-Subrat-Pattanaik-124.pdf','',1,'A study was conducted to investigate the prevalence and characteristics of predominant Integrated Farming Systems (IFS) in the coastal region of Odisha, India. Odisha being a coastal state in eastern India is the most disaster-vulnerable state in India where conventional farming practices are still being practiced. To enhance the food security and livelihoods of farmers, especially small and marginal farmers, IFS is being encouraged as a sustainable agricultural system that aims to increase productivity, reduce risk, and promote resilience in the face of disasters. Integrated Farming Systems involve the integration of various agricultural components, such as crops, livestock, fishery, and other allied activities, to enhance productivity, sustainability, and income generation. The study employed a combination of surveys, interviews, and field observations to collect data from a representative sample of farmers in the coastal region. Information was gathered on the types of farming systems practiced, the components integrated, and the extent of adoption among farmers. Preliminary findings indicate that the coastal region of Odisha has a significant presence of integrated farming practices. The predominant IFS observed include combinations of (Crop + Livestock), (Crop + Poultry), (Crop + Livestock + Poultry), (Crop + Livestock + Resource Generating), (Crop + Livestock + Fishery), and (Crop + Livestock + Fishery + Mushroom + Resource Generating) systems where FS IV generated high returns and FS-II was least profitable among 6 enterprises. The findings underscore the importance of IFS as a viable and sustainable farming strategy, contributing to increased agricultural productivity, environmental sustainability, and improved livelihoods. ','IFS, BCR, Predominant, Employment','The purpose of this study was to analyze the predominant Integrated Farming Systems practiced in Coastal Odisha. Efforts were made to systematically collate the data and analyze the share of each component in different farming systems. Preliminary findings indicate that IFS implementation in the coastal district of Odisha has demonstrated major economic outcomes from various farming systems. Out of numerous farming systems practiced only six (FS-I, FS-II, FS-III, FS-IV, FS-V and FS-VI) were selected which were more sustainable and economically viable farming systems, capable of addressing the challenges posed by climate change, resource limitations, and market dynamics in Odisha conditions. The study suggests that the adoption of IFS (FS-IV, FS-III and FS-VI) can have a significant increase in farm income and can promote resilience in the face of disasters and climate change. Therefore, there is a need for policymakers to promote IFS and provide the necessary support to farmers to adopt this sustainable and resilient agricultural approach.','-','Subrat Pattanaik, Khitish Sarangi, Sarbanarayan Mishra, Abhiram Dash and Arati Priyadarshini (2022). A Study on Prevalence of Predominant Integrated Farming Systems in Coastal Odisha. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 14(4a): 729-732.'),(6743,'157','Application of in vitro Biotechnological Tools in Coleus forskohlii: An Important Source of Therapeutic Products','Pooja Patel','Application-of-in-vitro-Biotechnological-Tools-in-Coleus-forskohlii-An-Important-Source-of-Therapeutic-Products-Pooja-Patel-153.pdf','',1,'The various plant species of Coleus genus are commercially important in the field of medicines, components of food and as ornamental plants. Among them, Coleus forskohlii is known for sole source of forskolin production naturally. Since the initiation of plant tissue culture, it has boosted the improvement of crops through various ways. The present review summarized various systems of in vitro regeneration for commercial production of plantlets as well as establishment of suspension culture and transformation protocol for improving forskolin production in vitro. Traditional regeneration system for this plant are not that much efficient and content of forskolin in each plant differed hence, the application of in vitro regeneration system and suspension culture can be a useful tool to overcome such limitations. Several studies have been carried out to develop a rapid and efficient protocol for regeneration of plantlets as well as suspension culture for Coleus forskohlii. It has been observed that various factors like choice of explants, sterilizing agents, selection of basal medium with appropriate plant growth regulators are important for desirable results. It is also concluded by this review that there is still requirement of more studies for improvement of regeneration efficacy as well application of somaclonal variation and determination of genetic stability in tissue cultured plantlets. More studies should be conducted to establish genetic engineering protocol using direct as well as indirect methods of gene transfers to achieve ample yield of forskolin. ','Coleus forskohlii, forskolin, Organogenesis, Suspension culture, Callus','This review elaborates on the biotechnological advances made on C. forskohlii upto date. There are several findings on direct and indirect organogenesis. This article addressed the impact of various explant sources, sterilization agents, and plant growth regulators on the micropropagation using direct and indirect regeneration system. Coleus nodal segments were the best source of explants for culture initiation because they tolerated sterilization better than apical shoots, demonstrating the highest survival frequency. There are some reports on somatic embryogenesis and genetic transformation but needs further work to establish robust and rapid protocols. ','-','Pooja Patel (2023). Application of in vitro Biotechnological Tools in Coleus forskohlii: An Important Source of Therapeutic Products. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 15(5): 1031-1037.'),(6744,'157','Anticancer Activity of Argemone mexicana L. Leaves Methanol Extract against Chemically Induced Mammary Tumours in Wister Rats','Vennila G., Santhini Arulselvi K., Ambujam G. and Sivakami T.','Anticancer-Activity-of-Argemone-mexicana-L.-Leaves-Methanol-Extract-against-Chemically-Induced-Mammary-Tumours-in-Wister-Rats-Vennila-G-154.pdf','',1,'Breast cancer is the most common malignancy in women, accounting for 31% of all female cancers around the world. Most of the anticancer drugs are associated with adverse side effects and development of multidrug resistance. Numerous studies have reported that plants extracts and phytochemicals isolated from plants are potent biological agents with anticancer properties. The whole plant of Argemone mexicana is traditionally used to treat the tumours, inflammation, skin conditions, jaundice, dysentery etc,. Being several phytochemicals have received interest of its antiproliferative and anti-tumour activities. In our study, we have investigated the anticancer activity of Argemone mexicana l. leaf (family: papaveraceae) against DMBA(7,12 dimethylbenz[a]anthracene) induced mammary tumors in wistar rats. We have used standard methods of soxhlet methanol extract of Argemone mexicana and phytochemicals analysis by GCMS. The drug was administrated orally to tumour induced rat in respective of 200mg, 400mg, which were compared with tumour control and standard drug (Temoxifen 10mg/kg/b.w) treated groups. At the end of experimental period rats were sacrificed with anesthesia, tumour tissues were collected and fixed in 10% buffered formalin for histopathological studies. The results were calculated as mean ± SD of six animals of all groups. The statistical analysis was done by using one-way ANOVA. P value was <0.05, considered as statistically significant. Histopathology, drug treated groups showed marked improvement in cellular architecture, when compared to untreated groups. 400mg/kg treated groups increased cellular morphology and mild pleomorphic changes like standard drug treated groups. From the results of study, we have concluded that methanol extract of Argemone mexicana might have anti-cancer effect by increasing apoptosis, preventing oxidative stress and proliferation, thus, the study needs further confirmation to be used as an alternative treatment for breast cancer. Definitely these herbal extract can be a novel contribution to the people against breast tumours.','Breast cancer, Argemone mexicana L., DMBA, GCMS analysis','In conclusion, methanol extract of Argemone mexicana leaves consist of several active compounds with anti-microbial and anticancer effects. Because of its medicinal properties, A. mexicana leaves extract treated animals may shows that decreased tumour volume and weight, morphologically less proliferating tumours, no invade growth and ulcer on the skin. Extract treated rats mammary tumus with cellular improvement in the histopathological study compare to tumour control. From our study, Argemone mexicana leaves extract in low cost, as well as ability to regress the tumour growth and improve the cellular morphology almost similar to standard drug. Therefore, Argemone mexicana leaves may have pharmaceutical properties and medicinal values but the therapeutic effect and mechanism of action needed further investigations.','-','Vennila, G., Santhini Arulselvi, K., Ambujam, G. & Sivakami, T. (2023). Anticancer Activity of Argemone mexicana L. Leaves Methanol Extract against Chemically Induced Mammary Tumours in Wister Rats. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 15(5), 1038-1045.'),(6745,'157','Economics of Cocoon Production as influenced by Methods of Irrigation and Organic Mulches','Ramya V.S. and Chandrashekhar S.','Economics-of-Cocoon-Production-as-influenced-by-Methods-of-Irrigation-and-Organic-Mulches-Ramya-VS-155.pdf','',1,'Water is undoubtedly elixir of life. Whether it be for irrigation, drinking and sanitation or for the protection of natural ecosystems and providing goods and services for growing populations, without water life on earth is just impossible and hence it is “lifeline”. Mulberry is cultivated in about 2.42 lakh ha area in India of the total mulberry area above 80 per cent is under irrigation conditions. In this context research was conducted at Department of Sericulture, College of Agriculture, University of Agricultural Sciences, GKVK, Bengaluru, Karnataka during 2021 - 2022 to study Effect of different methods of irrigation and organic mulching in mulberry during Kharif and Rabi seasons. The experiment was laid out in Factorial Randomized Complete Block Design (FRCBD) with fourteen treatment combinations and three replications. Main plots include two different methods of irrigation viz., Surface drip irrigation- I1 and Subsurface drip irrigation- I2 at 15-20 cm depth both at 0.75 Cumulative Pan Evaporation (CPE) and with treatments of organic mulches (Mulching with glyricidia leaves, Mulching with pongamia leaves, Mulching with neem leaves, Live mulching with cowpea, Live mulching with horsegram, Live mulching with dhaincha and control without mulch). The results revealed that subsurface drip irrigation @ 0.75 CPE and among organic mulches cowpea live mulching enhanced the growth and yield of mulberry, further the economics was estimated for different treatment combinations. The economics of Cross Breed cocoon production revealed that total cost of cultivation was more (Rs. 2,07,310 ha-1 crop-1) in combination with subsurface drip irrigation and living mulch with dhaincha, maximum net returns (Rs. 2,46,981.47 ha-1 year-1) and highest B:C ratio of 2.21 was reported in subsurface drip irrigation + live mulching with cowpea treated mulberry plots. In double hybrid cocoon production total cost of cultivation was more in combination of subsurface drip irrigation and live mulching with dhaincha (Rs. 2,12,315 ha-1 crop-1), subsurface drip irrigation and live mulching with cowpea treated mulberry leaves fed with double hybrid silkworms yielded maximum net returns (Rs. 4,56,829.40 ha-1year-1) and highest B:C ratio of 3.18. ','Methods of irrigation and organic mulching, Cost of production, Gross returns, Net returns, B:C ratio','Economics of Cross Breed cocoon production revealed that subsurface drip irrigation and live mulching with cowpea yielded maximum gross returns (Rs. 4,51,191.47 ha-1 year-1) and lowest gross returns was noticed in surface drip irrigation without mulching (Rs. 3,89,715.69 ha-1 year-1) and maximum net returns of (Rs. 2,46,981.47 ha-1 year-1) with the B:C ratio (2.21) was recorded in subsurface drip irrigation and live mulching with cowpea, least net returns was recorded in surface drip irrigation without mulching (Rs. 1,94,305.69ha-1year-1) and B:C ratio (1.99). Similarly, same trend has been followed with economics of FC1 × FC2 cocoon production where mulberry garden with subsurface drip irrigation in combination with live mulching with cowpea plots yielded maximum gross returns (Rs. 6,66,044.40 ha-1 year-1) where lowest gross returns was noticed in surface drip irrigation without mulching (Rs. 5,22,283.50 ha-1 year-1) and maximum net returns (Rs. 4,56,829.40 ha-1 year-1) with higher B:C ratio (3.18) was recorded in subsurface drip irrigation and live mulching with cowpea and least net returns was recorded in surface drip irrigation without mulching (Rs. 3,21,868.50 ha-1 year-1) and B:C ratio (2.61).','-','Ramya V.S. and Chandrashekhar S. (2023). Economics of Cocoon Production as influenced by Methods of Irrigation and Organic Mulches. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 15(5): 1046-1050.'),(6746,'157','Simple, Rapid, and a Green Derivative ATR-FTIR spectroscopic method for the analysis of Atenolol Loaded Microspheres and its tablet formulations','Annapoorani Arjunan, Ruby S., Kumar M. and Bhuvaneswari R.','Simple,-Rapid,-and-a-Green-Derivative-ATR-FTIR-spectroscopic-method-for-the-analysis-of-Atenolol-Loaded-Microspheres-and-its-tablet-formulations-Annapoorani-Arjunan-156.pdf','',1,'Developing a non-destructive analytical method to quantify the polymer based analyte is an herculean task. Since there is lacuna in the analysis of drugs in presence of interfering formulation excipients we proposed ATR-FTIR spectroscopic method for the qualitative and quantitative estimation of atenolol in its polymer based microsphere formulations. The current research describes the utility of a validated, simple, rapid, easy-to-implement, and solvent free and green Attenuated total reflection-Fourier transform infrared (ATR-FTIR) spectroscopy method for the quantitative analysis of Atenolol loaded lab-made microspheres and its marketed tablets. This ATR-FTIR spectroscopic analysis is based on the measurement of the absorbance of infrared bands corresponding to the C=O stretching for amide (–CONH2) in the range of 1650-1700cm-1 of the carbonyl amide moiety of atenolol. The wave number was selected by derivatisation of the absorbance spectrum to its first, second and third derivative spectrum. The statistical results were compared and correlated with other analytical methods for the quantification of Atenolol. The polymer excipients of the atenolol loaded microsphere and in the commercial tablet preparation did not interfere with the active drug. The linearity was found in the range 0.1 – 1.0 w/w % with r = 0.9821. Precision of the method was assessed by the repeated analysis of Atenolol by inter and inter and Intraday analysis. The results retrieved showed a small standard and relative standard deviation values. The high percentage of recovery of Atenolol in microspheres, and its marketed tablets (99.96, 99.92 and 100.03%w/w) demonstrate the compliance of the accuracy study limits as per the ICH guidelines. The limit of detection (LOD) and limit of quantification (LOQ) values (0.0528 and 0.1599 w/w %, respectively) indicated the high sensitivity of the method. Thus, the developed ATR-FTIR spectroscopic method showed high accuracy and precision, is considered as nondestructive, solvent free, green, low cost and rapid, and can be applied easily for the pharmaceutical quantitative determination of atenolol in their polymer based and tablet formulations.','Atenolol, ATR-FTIR spectroscopy, Derivative spectroscopy, Analysis','Fourier Transform Infrared Spectroscopy is widely recognized technique has been used to identify several compounds, such as pharmaceuticals, cosmetics and foods, but requires expensive equipments and mathematical pretreatments. The quantization of Atenolol through infrared spectroscopy accomplishes with the requirements of specificity, precision, and accuracy in order to be used as a method for the quality control of polymer based dosage forms and in pharmaceuticals. \r\nThe method has been evaluated for linearity, accuracy, precision and ruggedness in order to ascertain the suitability of the analytical method. The method was applied to marketed samples. It has been proved that the method was selective and linear between the concentrations 10 - 70 μg and correlation coefficient value was found to be 0.9989. The developed method was found to be precise as the % RSD value for repeatability and intermediate precision were 0.1783 and 0.1688, which were less than 2.0%. The percentage recovery was found to be 99.76 ± 0.185. The method is very simple, rapid and economic nature, which makes it especially suitable for routine quality control work. We conclude that \r\nOur work was aimed to focus on the implementation of sustainable chemistry by replacing conventional analytical methods developed with the aid of hazardous solvents with our no-solvent green technique without hindering method performance. The future scope of our work is to perform in vitro and in vivo real time dissolution analysis to predict the pharmacokinetic behavior of the drug.\r\n','-','Annapoorani Arjunan, Ruby S., Kumar M., Bhuvaneswari R. (2023). Simple, Rapid, and a Green Derivative ATR-FTIR spectroscopic method for the analysis of Atenolol Loaded Microspheres and its tablet formulations. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 15(5): 1051-1057.'),(6747,'157','Genetic Alchemy: Unlocking the Untold Potential of Bt -Brinjal for Pest Management','Harshita Thota, I.R. Delvadiya and B.R. Reddy','Genetic-Alchemy-Unlocking-the-Untold-Potential-of-Bt--Brinjal-for-Pest-Management-Harshita-Thota-157.pdf','',1,'Brinjal, also known as eggplant or aubergine, is a popular vegetable crop belonging to the Solanaceae family, and it originated in India. It is widely cultivated on over 1.847 million hectares of land, with an annual production of more than 52 million metric tonnes. Even though brinjal is a widely cultivated crop, it is vulnerable to various insect-pest attacks. Among them, the eggplant fruit and shoot borer (Leucinodes orbonalis) pose a persistent threat to farmers. In countries like Bangladesh, BSFB infestation can cause significant crop loss, up to 86%, These losses have a direct impact on crop yield and are primarily attributed to the utilization of insecticides that target a broad spectrum of insects. The development of genetically modified brinjal, also known as Bt brinjal, was driven by the need for an insect-resistant variety that could effectively control the eggplant fruit and shoot borer pest. This transgenic brinjal has the potential to increase productivity in Bangladesh and other countries. Due to environmental concerns, socio-economic impacts, health and safety concerns, there are challenges faced in the release of Bt brinjal in India. Genetic engineering has led to the development of various biotech/genetically modified crops that are resistant to biotic and abiotic stresses and are beneficial for human health and the conservation of natural resources.','Bt Brinjal, Fruit-Shoot Borer, GMO, Transgenic, Resistant','Crops that have been genetically modified (GM) have the potential to solve several problems that commercial agriculture is now facing. These crops are anticipated to be among the most inventive and fast-growing industries on the international market, providing advantages to farmers as well as consumers and the economies of significant nations. The introduction of Bt brinjal has elicited varied responses from different committees involved in its development. India, as a developing nation, is grappling with the challenges posed by its rapidly growing population. The escalating demand for food has placed emphasis on the significance of Bt crops, making them a potential solution to address this issue. While there are various concerns and questions regarding the safety and associated issues of Bt brinjal, it is worth noting that Bt brinjal is already being marketed in Bangladesh. Therefore, these concerns should not simply be dismissed, but rather considered and addressed in order to make an informed decision about the product.','-','Harshita Thota, I.R. Delvadiya and B.R. Reddy (2023). Genetic Alchemy: Unlocking the Untold Potential of Bt -Brinjal for Pest Management. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 15(5): 1058-1065.'),(6748,'157','Estimation of Genetic Parameters and Character Association Studies for Yield and its Component Traits in Pigeonpea [Cajanus cajan (L.) Millspaugh]','S.G.P. Karthikeya Reddy, S.K. Verma, R.K. Panwar, Anju Arora, Arvind Chauhan and Shubham Kumawat\r\n','Estimation-of-Genetic-Parameters-and-Character-Association-Studies-for-Yield-and-its-Component-Traits-in-Pigeonpea-[Cajanus-cajan(L.)-Millspaugh]-SGP-Karthikeya-Reddy-158.pdf','',1,'Present investigation comprised of 38 pigeonpea genotypes was conducted during kharif, 2022-23 crop season to estimate the genetic parameters, character association between yield and its component traits. High estimates of PCV and GCV were recorded for the characters like primary branches per plant, seed yield per plant, pods per plant, secondary branches per plant, plant height and 100-seed weight. High estimates of heritability associated with high genetic advance were obtained for the traits days to 50% flowering, plant height, pods per plant, pod length, seeds per pod, 100 seed weight and seed yield per plant representing that the heritability for these traits is most likely due to the additive gene effects. The trait number of pods per plant not only exhibited high positive direct effect but also positively and significantly correlated with seed yield per plant indicating that this component trait is governed by additive gene action and direct selection for this trait may cause desirable improvement in seed yield per plant.','Pigeonpea, variability, heritability, genetic advance, correlation, path analysis','On the basis of present findings, it can be concluded that the trait like pods per plant not only exhibited high estimates of heritability and genetic advance as percent mean, but it also contributed maximum towards the dependent variable seed yield per plant besides showing high positive correlation with seed yield per plant. This indicated that this component trait is governed by additive gene action and direct selection for this component trait may results in desirable improvement in seed yield per plant.','-','S.G.P. Karthikeya Reddy, S.K. Verma, R.K. Panwar, Anju Arora, Arvind Chauhan and Shubham Kumawat (2023). Estimation of Genetic Parameters and Character Association Studies for Yield and its Component Traits in Pigeonpea [Cajanus cajan (L.) Millspaugh]. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 15(5): 1066-1070.'),(6749,'157','Geotechnical Stability Assessment of Road-cut Slopes: A Case Study of Srinagar, Garhwal Himalaya, India','Mukta Sharma, Shivani Sharma, Gaurav Tripathi, Suraj Kumar Singh, \r\nShruti Kanga and Ritambhara K. Upadhyay','Geotechnical-Stability-Assessment-of-Road-cut-Slopes-A-Case-Study-of-Srinagar,-Garhwal-Himalaya,-India-Suraj-Kumar-Singh-159.pdf','',1,'The reason for the occurrence of landslides along the cut slopes of road corridors in the Himalayas is the repeated movement along thrust planes, which weakens rock slopes and makes them susceptible to stress and failure. Consequently, landslides are a prevalent phenomenon in this region. Slope stability along mountain roads is a major concern, as slope failures can cause considerable distress to local communities and sever transport links. It is crucial to conduct stability assessments of cut slopes along highways in such areas. The various challenges faced during the study were inaccessible areas making it difficult to collect data and understanding the complex interactions between these factors and developing accurate prediction models is a complex task. Landslides can be triggered by a variety of factors, including, seismic activity, slope instability and human activities. This leads to vagaries of the landslides Despite all the challenges, twenty-two geologically diverse sites along National Highway 58 (A significant transportation route for pilgrims in the Garhwal Himalaya.) from a 17 km stretch between Srinagar and Sirobagarh were selected for detailed geological and geotechnical analysis and evaluation of slope stability using rock mass classification methods, kinematic analysis and numerical modeling. To evaluate the strength of the rock mass for stability assessment, the geological strength index and rock mass rating were employed. Subsequently, the slope mass rating and continuous slope mass rating were determined. The identification of potential unfavorable planes was carried out using kinematic analysis. Furthermore, the stability of three major landslide zones in the area was critically analyzed using large scale mapping with the help of total station. The evaluated values of SMR, CSMR confirm the poor geotechnical properties of a few of the locations and this is corroborated with the field conditions. The results obtained from the study show the weak planes along which the probability of landslides is more and concrete measures can be taken to stabilize those slopes through the concrete walls, mesh, etc.','Road Cut Slopes, SMR, CSMR, Kinematic Analysis, Total Station, Topography','In determining the quality of a rock mass, RMR and GSI play vital roles, and our findings are consistent with that existing understanding. SMR and CSMR values provide the most precise evaluation of the slope stability grades. Kinematic analysis helps identifying planes of weakness and this information can further be utilized for planning mitigation measures to avoid landslides in such zones. Slope stability along mountain roads is a significant concern due to the potential for slope failures, which can result in traffic disruptions and the loss of property and/or life. Appropriate landslide mitigation strategies should be carried out based on the findings and recommendations of geotechnical experts. A fundamental technique for the stabilization of a slope is to improve the surface and subsurface drainage conditions. Undesirable surface waters should be drained into natural stream channels using lined drains or diverted to sites where running water will not affect the area. In addition to the above geotechnical approaches, suitable bio-remedial strategies need to be adopted, such as planting along the exposed areas that result from excavation for the widening of roads, as these areas are susceptible to saturation during the rainy season.','-','Mukta Sharma, Shivani Sharma, Gaurav Tripathi, Suraj Kumar Singh, Shruti Kanga and Ritambhara K. Upadhyay (2023). Geotechnical Stability Assessment of Road-cut Slopes: A Case Study of Srinagar, Garhwal Himalaya, India. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 15(5): 1071-1080.'),(6750,'157','Biodiversity of Fungi Recorded from Different Chickpea Fields of Madhya Pradesh','G.T. Dinkwar, V.K. Yadav, Ashish Kumar, Jayant Bhatt, A.K. Jain and S.P. Pudake','Biodiversity-of-Fungi-Recorded-from-Different-Chickpea-Fields-of-Madhya-Pradesh-GT--Dinkwar-160.pdf','',1,'Bacteria and fungus that live in the soil contribute significantly to soil fertility and the growth of plants. Soil fungus play an important role in maintaining plant diversity and productivity. Using a biodiversity-ecosystem model, we assessed the effects of root-associated soil fungi on plants. The diversity of microfungi in sixteen soil samples from chickpea crop fields across various agro climatic zones of Madhya Pradesh were examined by using serial dilution plating method with the standard Potato Dextrose Agar (PDA) for both qualitative and quantitative patterns. For analysis of fungi, 11 species were enumerated from the aforementioned soil samples in which Alternaria spp. (3.12%), Penicillium spp. (11.71%), Fusarium spp. (10.15%), Trichoderma spp. (17.20), Rhizopus stolonifera (6.25%), Mucor spp. (2.34%), Aspergillus Niger (25%), Aspergillus flavus (14.10%), Aspergillus terreus (5.46%), Sclerotium rolfsii (3.12%) and Nigrospora spp. (1.55%) were remarkably prevalent. All agricultural lands were dominated by Aspergillus niger, Aspergillus flavus, Penicillium spp., Fusarium spp., and Trichoderma species because of their high sporulation capacity. Toxins produced by Aspergillus species and antibiotics of Penicillium species may be attributed for restricting the growth of other fungal species. The Trichoderma species function as an antagonist against fungal plant pathogens. This study examines the impact of land use on fungus biodiversity and succession. In conclusion, the authors recommend for a change away from cataloguing fungal species in various soil ecosystems and towards a more global study based on roles and interactions between organisms.','Mycoflora, Biodivesity, Rhizosphere','The current study demonstrates the diverse nature of fungal biodiversity from several chickpea soil samples with varying population densities, which may be related to differences in soil types, crop cultivation, nutrients in the soil, pH in the soil, moisture in the soil, and soil mycoflora. To understand the relationship between fungal diversity and rhizosphere environment, the soil environment of several agricultural fields with various crop growing techniques was researched. The competing fungus Trichoderma inhibited the growth of the pathogenic fungus. It would be fascinating to conduct more research on the diversity of Trichoderma species, as well as their significance to agriculture.','-','G.T. Dinkwar, V.K. Yadav, Ashish Kumar, Jayant Bhatt, A.K. Jain and S.P. Pudake (2023). Biodiversity of Fungi Recorded From Different Chickpea Fields of Madhya Pradesh. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 15(5): 1081-1086.'),(6751,'157','Pharmacoinformatics based in silico Molecular Dynamics Simulation for Screening Phytochemicals as AMPK and INSR Modulators for Polycystic Ovarian Syndrome from Medicinal Plants','Sudhakar Pachiappan, Arul Balasubramanian, Murali G. and Kothai Ramalingam','Pharmacoinformatics-based-in-silico-Molecular-Dynamics-Simulation-for-Screening-Phytochemicals-as-AMPK-and-INSR-Modulators-for-Polycystic-Ovarian-Syndrome-from-Medicinal-Plants-Kothai-Ramalingam-161.pdf','',1,'Polycystic ovarian syndrome (PCOS) is a complex endocrinal and metabolic disorder of women of reproductive age women. PCOS is characterized by hyperandrogenism, irregular periods, cyctic ovaries, insulin resistance, hyperinsulinemia, obesity, and dyslipidemia resulting in an increased risk of diabetes and cardiovascular diseases. Due to its complexity and lack of systemic treatment, we have selected three plant materials S. asoca bark, G. sylvestre leaves, and P. daemia aerial parts, which are prominent and effective against any two or more major pathogenic pathways of PCOS to identify effective alternative drug molecules. The Phytoconstituents of the selected plant materials were retrieved from IMPPAT, Dr. Duke’s public database, and also manually searched from articles. PubChem database was used to obtain the structures of the selected phytochemicals. Graph theoretical analysis was employed by exploitation of the KEGG pathway and finding out the significant PCOS pathways and the influential proteins such as AMPK and INSR. The retrieved compounds were docked against a selected target using Schrodinger Glide software, and ADMET studies were carried out in a web-based online tool. Compounds that possess superior molecular interaction and kinetic profiles were further selected for molecular dynamics studies. The identified 65 compounds were docked with the selected targets. A compound that has high docking score from each plant against each target was selected for further ADMET and molecular dynamic (MD) studies. These compounds with each target having docking scores in the range of (-11.09 to -1.14 kcal/mol) with AMPK and (-12.92 to -1.43 kcal/mol) with INSR. The selected compounds were further screened for ADMET studies through an online Swiss ADME and pkCSM web server. Based on the ADMET and docking results two compounds from each target that have higher docking scores, pharmacokinetic, and safety profiles were selected for MD studies. The MD results showed that β-sitosterol showed better intermolecular interaction and stability against AMPK and Gymnemoside E against INSR. These aforementioned findings interpreted that the β-sitosterol and Gymnemoside E have adequate potential as drug candidates for the treatment of PCOS. Further in vivo studies are needed to explore these constituents for clinical use.','ADMET, AMPK, INSR, Docking, Molecular Dynamics, Polycystic Ovarian Syndrome','Based on these in silico studies the phytoconstituents β-sitosterol and Gymnemoside E were identified as significant drug candidates for polycystic ovarian syndrome through activating AMPK and INSR target protein medicated pathway improves follicular development and ovulation by altering hyperandrogenism and insulin resistance in PCOS ovary. Further scope full in-vitro and in-vivo studies are required to explore these phytoconstituents as better drug candidates for PCOS.','-','Sudhakar Pachiappan, Arul Balasubramanian, Murali G. and Kothai Ramalingam (2023). Pharmacoinformatics based in silico Molecular Dynamics Simulation for Screening Phytochemicals as AMPK and INSR Modulators for Polycystic Ovarian Syndrome from Medicinal Plants. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 15(5): 1087-1092.'),(6752,'157','Effect of Neuro Muscular Electrical Stimulation (NMES) using Muscle Intelligence (MI) Action Technology and Functional Hand Orthosis in Improving Arm-hand Skilled Performance (AHSP) in Post-stroke Subjects – A Pilot Study','Rajan Samuel A. and Anita Prem','Effect-of-Neuro-Muscular-Electrical-Stimulation-(NMES)-using-Muscle-Intelligence-(MI)-Action-Technology-and-Functional-Hand-Orthosis-in-Improving-Arm-hand-Skilled-Performance-(AHSP)--Anita-prem-162.pdf','',1,'Impaired hand function is a common consequence of stroke, affecting around 87 percent of stroke subjects leading to limited ability to perform their activities of daily living. So, the necessity arises to achieve and maintain improvement in both arm-hand function (AHF) and arm-hand skilled performance (AHSP). Neuromuscular electrical stimulation (NMES) is being commonly used in the rehabilitation of patients with neurological diseases. When electrical stimulation (ES) regimens are combined with mechanical strategies such as robotic training or neuroprosthetics, or other types of orthoses, better results are obtained. This is a pilot study with the objective of investigating the effectiveness of combining a neuro muscular electrical stimulation (NMES) regimen adjunct with a functional hand orthosis (Saebo Glove) in reducing wrist flexor spasticity and improving hand performance. A sample of 20 post-stroke subjects with hand function impairments were divided into two groups to compare the improvement in arm-hand skilled performance (AHSP) using Action Research Arm Test. The control group received the conventional physiotherapy management and the experimental group received neuro muscular electrical stimulation (NMES) using Muscle intelligence (MI) action technology combined with a functional hand orthosis, along with conventional physiotherapy management. Both groups showed improvement in arm hand skilled performance following intervention. The improvement in arm-hand skilled performance gained by experimental group was significantly better than the control group (0.005441). Sub-acute post stroke subjects treated with Neuro muscular electrical stimulation using Muscle intelligence action technology combined with a functional hand orthosis along with conventional physiotherapy management showed better improvement in arm-hand skilled performance than those who were given conventional physiotherapy management alone. In muscle intelligence action technology voluntary contractions are combined with stimulated contractions at the subject’s own pace, so that the user is in control of his/her training. The Saebo Glove improves hand strength and mobility of patients so that they can effectively grab objects. These aspects contribute to the effectiveness of the treatment.','Neuro muscular electrical stimulation, Functional hand orthosis (Saebo Glove), Arm-Hand skilled performance, Muscle intelligence action technology','The results from this pilot study show that a 6-week program of a combined NMES-MI technology-Saebo Glove along with conventional physiotherapy management is feasible and likely to improve the AHSP by reducing wrist flexor spasticity and improving hand movement in post-stroke subjects with hand function impairment better than the conventional physiotherapy management. A larger and more comprehensive study is going on to further assess and expand on these preliminary findings.','-','Rajan Samuel A. and Anita Prem (2023). Effect of Neuro Muscular Electrical Stimulation (NMES) Using Muscle Intelligence (MI) Action Technology and Functional Hand Orthosis in Improving Arm-hand Skilled Performance (AHSP) in Post-stroke Subjects – A Pilot Study. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 15(5): 1093-1096.'),(6753,'157','Effect of Simplified Kundalini Yoga practices on Haematological and Hormonal variables among medical Students','Vajiravelu Suganthi, Panneerselvam Periasamy, Arumugam Chandrabose and Sasikala Gunasekaran','Effect-of-Simplified-Kundalini-Yoga-practices-on-Haematological-and-Hormonal-variables-among-medical-Students-Panneerselvam-Periasamy-163.pdf','',1,'Stress can have a bad impact on one\'s physical and mental health, causing unpleasant symptoms including headaches, anxiety, and despair. A curriculum that supports a student\'s total wellness, encompassing their mental, physical, social, and moral qualities, is thought to be essential. Such a strategy is anticipated to have positive outcomes over the course of their career. The purpose of the study was to find out the effect of simplified kundalini yoga practices on haematological and hormonal variables among medical students of a tertiary care setting. After taking necessary ethical committee permissions from an institution of a tertiary care setting, 120 students were chosen through purposive sampling method and were divided into two 60-membered groups. All the students who accepted to be a part of this study aged greater than 18 years were included in the study. Those who denied consent to be a part of this study were excluded from the study. Simplified Kundalini Yoga (SKY) included Simplified Physical Exercises, Kayakalpa Yoga Exercises, Simplified Kundalini Meditation and Introspection. The subjects were free to withdraw their consent in case of feeling any discomfort during the period of their participation but there was no dropout during the study. 53.33% (n=32) of the study participants in the yoga group constituted females, whereas 55% of the control group (n=33) were females. 73.33% (n=44) of the yoga group participants were in the age group of 20-21 years, whereas 68.33% of the control group participants were in the age group of 20-21 years. The study results indicate that SKY program could be a feasible and acceptable strategy among the students of both medical and non-medical background in maintaining the overall health.','Kundalini Yoga, Haematological variables, Hormonal variables','The study results indicate that SKY program could be a feasible and acceptable strategy among the students of both medical and non-medical background in maintaining the overall health.','-','Vajiravelu Suganthi, Panneerselvam Periasamy, Arumugam Chandrabose and Sasikala Gunasekaran (2023). Effect of Simplified Kundalini Yoga practices on Haematological and Hormonal variables among medical Students. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 15(5): 1097-1102.'),(6754,'157','Wound Healing Gauze Formulation through Synthesis of Selenium Nanoparticles from Sericin and Wrightia tinctoria – A Green Approach','M. Sridevi, R. Siva Renjith, A. Surya and C. Nirmala','Wound-Healing-Gauze-Formulation-through-Synthesis-of-Selenium-Nanoparticles-from-Sericin-and-Wrightia-tinctoria-–-A-Green-Approach-BT-Prabhakar-164.pdf','',1,'Wound provides a environment for microbial growth which delays healing and cause more prominent acute inflammatory reaction that lead to further tissue damage and injury. An effort is put forth in the present study to develop a bio conjugated selenium nanoparticles (SeNPs) for wound healing which is delayed by infectious microbes. Sericin and essential oil obtained from waste cocoons and W. tinctoria bark was utilized for the synthesis of selenium nanoparticle. The structure of Sr-Wt-SeNPs was characterized by UV-Visible spectroscopy, Fourier Transform Infrared Spectroscopy and X-ray Diffraction, later investigated for their antioxidant, antidiabetic, antithrombotic, antimicrobial and anti-inflammatory efficacy. The spectral studies showed that the Sr-Wt-SeNPs were formed optimally exhibiting a maximum absorption peak at 266 nm. Sr-Wt-SeNPs showed potent IC50 of 34.54 μg/ml and 41.04 μg/ml against DPPH and reducing power assay. The in vitro α-amylase and α-glucosidase inhibitory activity of Sr-Wt-SeNPs was 71% & 66% respectively. The antithrombotic activity was also found to be 50.76%. Similarly, the Sr-Wt-SeNPs (100 μg/mL) showed strong antimicrobial property against the selected gram-positive, gram-negative and fungal pathogens. Anti-inflammatory activity with maximum inhibition value for albumin denaturation and membrane stabilization test (100 μg/ml) for Sr-Wt-SeNPs was potent when compared to individual sericin and essential oil. The present study is an attempt to explore the utility and value of Sericin, a waste material as green material and combination of it with essential oil from W. tinctoria bark to synthesize pharmacologically active SeNPs.','Wrightia tinctoria, Sericin, Essential oil, Sr-Wt-SeNPs, antioxidant, anti-diabetic, anti-thrombotic, anti-inflammatory activity','Silk protein sericin is an emerging substance with vast pharmacological properties. In the present study, the Sr-Wr- SeNPs were synthesized by using sericin and essential oil from W. tinctoria and was characterized The synthesized Sr-Wr- SeNPs showed potent antioxidant, antimicrobial activity, anti-inflammatory, antidiabetic and antithrombotic activities when compared to sericin & essential oil the Sr-Wr- SeNPs. Further work is needed to develop wound healing gauze –robustness and efficiency to make it suitable for commercial production. ','-','M. Sridevi, R. Siva Renjith, A. Surya and C. Nirmala (2023). Wound Healing Gauze Formulation through Synthesis of Selenium Nanoparticles from Sericin and Wrightia tinctoria – A Green Approach. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 15(5): 1103-1114.'),(6755,'157','Optimization and Evaluation of Topical Gel from Euphorbia hirta L extract Towards Skin Infections','Abilesh Ramesh, Divya Kennedy, Vijayalakshmi Subramanian and Vaidevi Sethuraman','Optimization-and-Evaluation-of-Topical-Gel-from-Euphorbia-hirta-L-extract-Towards-Skin-Infections-Vaidevi-Sethuraman-165.pdf','',1,'Skin disease is the most common disease caused to humans, according to World Health Organization (WHO) around 900 million experience skin diseases. Skin diseases are caused due to allergies, irritants, genetic makeup, certain diseases, and immune system problems. Microbes like Candida albicans, Propionibacterium, Staphylococcus, and Escherichia coli are important reasons for cause of skin disease. To overcome this issue, there is a need of medication that cures skin infections like acne, cellulitis, cutaneous candidiasis, boils and furuncles in one solution. In this research article, we developed a novel plant-based topical gel from Euphorbia hirta L. The extract of E. hirta and silver nanoparticles loaded in the gel showed good activity against E. coli, Propionibacterium, Staphylococcus, and Candida albicans. Thereby, the formulated gel would be promising skin care product that cures acne, cellulitis, cutaneous candidiasis, boils and furuncles.','Skin disease, E. hirta L, topical gel, optimization, antibacterial, antifungal','The formulated gel showed good properties of topical-like stability and the optimization describes the effectiveness of the formulated topical gel. The ethanolic extract of Euphorbia hirta L showed good antimicrobial activity, also the formulated gel incorporated E. hirta extract and AgNPs showed better activity against bacteria and fungi like E.coli, S. aureus, P. acne, C. albicans, respectively. These bacteria and fungi causes acne, cellulitis, cutaneous candidiasis, boils and furuncles. Antimicrobial activity showed that the formulated gel would cure the disease caused by those microbes. Therefore, we conclude that the resulting topical gel would be effective in curing skin infections.','-','Abilesh Ramesh, Divya Kennedy, Vijayalakshmi Subramanian and Vaidevi Sethuraman (2023). Optimization and Evaluation of Topical Gel from Euphorbia hirta L extract Towards Skin Infections. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 15(5): 1115-1123.'),(6756,'157','Flood Vulnerability and Livestock Production Risks Hazard Mapping of Flood-Prone Areas of the Cuddalore District of Tamil Nadu, India','P. Tensingh Gnanaraj, P. Silambarasan, Thanga Thamil Vanan, R. Richard Churchill and N. Vengadabady ','Flood-Vulnerability-and-Livestock-Production-Risks-Hazard-Mapping-of-Flood-Prone-Areas-of-the-Cuddalore-District-of-Tamil-Nadu,-India-P-Tensingh-Gnanaraj-166.pdf','',1,'India is one of the most disaster-prone countries in the world mainly due to its high geo-climatic conditions and its higher degree of social vulnerability. Concerning socioeconomic and environmental perspectives, flood is one of the most devastating disasters in the coastal regions of Cuddalore in recent years. The main aim of this study is to create a flood vulnerability and livestock production risks hazard map for the coastal district of Cuddalore with the integration of Geographic Information System (GIS), and the Multi-criteria Decision-Making-Analysis (MCDM). The study was carried out in the most flood-prone areas of Cuddalore. Based on the geographical data a Geographical map was prepared with the technical assistance of the Department of Earth Sciences, Annamalai University using Arc GIS software. The details included in the flood hazard map are the rivers entering the Cuddalore district, their route to the draining Bay of Bengal, their longitude latitude on touching the selected block, available lakes, their drainage pattern, and artificial drainage canals passing through the selected blocks. In addition, connecting roads were also marked. The prepared map can be used to forecast the possibility of flood occurrence and formulation of mitigation strategies in the future.','Cuddalore, Flood, GIS, Vulnerability map','Currently GIS techniques are used to identify the flood-vulnerable areas in the Cudddalore district of Tamil Nadu based on the different environmental parameters such as rainfall, slope, soil, land use/land cover, geomorphology, and drainage density. From the obtained results it was observed that 40% of the areas are highly vulnerable, 30% of areas demarcated as moderately vulnerable, and 30% are low vulnerable areas in the study area. Based on this study it is put forth that the livestock in the low-lying areas suffer to the deep end because of the typographical location. To overcome this misshapen the farmers must be educated on the flood hazard map which would render the required information to prevent monitory loss.','-','P. Tensingh Gnanaraj, P. Silambarasan, Thanga Thamil Vanan, R. Richard Churchill and N. Vengadabady (2023). Flood Vulnerability and Livestock Production Risks Hazard Mapping of Flood-Prone Areas of the Cuddalore District of Tamil Nadu, India. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 15(5): 1124-1130.'),(6757,'157','Effect of substrate Dynamics for IPNM in Mango cv. Sunderja for Growth Yield and quality in Kymore Plateau of Madhya Pradesh','Singh T.K., Singh S. and Bose U.S.','Effect-of-substrate-Dynamics-for-IPNM-in-Mango-cv.-Sunderja-for-Growth-Yield-and-quality-in-Kymore-Plateau-of-Madhya-Pradesh-Shruti-Singh-167.pdf','',1,'A field experiment was laid out in 2016-17 to 2020-21. Under All India Coordinated Research Project on Fruits cv. Sunderja with the objectives. (A) To study the effect of organic, inorganic and bio fertilizers on yield & quality of Mango. (B) To determine the effect of IPNM package for Mango quality fruit production. The experiment was laid out in Randomized Block Design (RBD) comprising 10 treatments, which were replicated thrice. The treatments were comprised IPNM methods namely Thus, the ten treatment combinations T1 1000: 500: 500g NPK/tree (as control), T2; T1 + Zn (0.5%), + B (0.2%), + Mn (1.0%) + Ca (0.6%) as foliar twice (Aug. & Oct.), T3; T1 + Organic mulching @ 10 cm thick, T4; T2 + Organic Mulching @ 10 cm Thick., T5; ½ T1 + 50 kg. FYM + enriched 250 g. Trichoderma, T6; ½ T1 + 50kg. FYM + 250g. Azospirillum. T7; ½ T1 + Azotobacter (250g) + 50kg. FYM, T8; ½ T1 + 50kg FYM + 5kg vermi compost, T9; ½ T1+ 50kg FYM + 250g pseudomonas florescence, T10; ½ RDF + 50kg FYM + Trichoderma (250g) + pseudomonas (250g). The maximum tree height (7.40 m) were observed in treatment T8 - ½ T1+ 50kg FYM + 5kg vermin Which is at par under treatment T2 (7.34 m) noted in T2; T1 + Zn (0.5%), + B (0.2%), + Mn (1.0%) + Ca (0.6%) as foliar twice (Aug. & Oct.), Tree spread E-W and N-S (11.53m and 11.26m), were recorded with the treatments T7; ½ T1 +Azotobacter (250g) + 50kg. FYM. The higher Number of fruit/tree 212.35 was noted in treatment T3T1 + Organic mulching @ 10 cm. thick. Maximum fruit weight (312.52 g) in treatment T5; ½ T1 + 50 kg. FYM + enriched 250 g. Trichoderma. Here it is mention that the results related to vegetative and quality parameters on the basis of only 1 year data. The pooled yield data 5 years clearly indicated that fruit yield tree-1 and yield ha-1 (57.76 and 57.76 qt.) have been registered with the treatment T5; 500g:250:250g NPK + 50kg. FYM enriched with trichoderma (250g)/tree, followed by (53.56kg/tree) and 53.56 qt) recorded with the treatments T3; T1 + Organic mulching @ 10 cm. thick. The benefit cost ratio was also found higher with the treatment T5; 500g:250:250g NPK+ 50kg. FYM enriched with Trichoderma (250g)/tree. The maximum TSS were recorded (22.8oB) treatment T8 - ½ T1 + 50kg FYM + 5kg vermi, Maximum acidity % were recorded (0.32) treatment T9; ½ T1+ 50kg FYM + 250g pseudomonas florescence. ','Mango, Growth, Yield, Quality, Kymore Plateau, INM','The benefit cost ratio was also found higher with the treatment T5; 500g:250:250g NPK+ 50kg. FYM enriched with Trichoderma (250g)/tree. The maximum TSS were recorded (22.8oB) treatmentT8 - ½ T1 + 50kg FYM + 5kg vermi, Maximum acidity % were recorded (0.32) treatment T9; ½ T1 + 50kg FYM + 250g pseudomonas florescence.','-','Singh T.K., Singh S. and Bose U.S. (2023). Effect of substrate Dynamics for IPNM in Mango cv. Sunderja for Growth Yield and quality in Kymore Plateau of Madhya Pradesh. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 15(5): 1131-1134.'),(6758,'157','Accelerated Stability Studies of Mucuna prureins Hydroalcoholic Extract Phytosome Formulation, and Evaluation of its Capsule Dosage Form','Poonam Karekar, Suresh Killedar, Harinath More, Amir Shaikh, Sneha Joshi, Supriya Waghmare, Amruta Walvekar, Rahul Buchade and Sarika Patil \r\n','Accelerated-Stability-Studies-of-Mucuna-prureins-Hydroalcoholic-Extract-Phytosome-Formulation,-and-Evaluation-of-its-Capsule-Dosage-Form-Poonam-Karekar-168.pdf','',1,'Mucuna prureins extract (MPE) is useful in reducing depression symptoms. However, MPE\'s transit through biological membranes is restricted due to its large molecular weight and hydrophilic nature. Phytosomes could be promising carriers for improving the oral absorption of such encapsulated extracts. One of the major challenges was to get the desired EE and that was achieved by using soya phosphatidylcholine. In this work optimized batch of Mucuna prureins phytosomes (MPP) was subjected to accelerated stability studies and evaluated at regular time intervals for entrapment efficiency, particle size, polydispersity index, and zeta potential. Further, capsules of MPE and MPP were formulated and evaluated for quality control evaluation tests like weight variation, in vitro disintegration time, and in vitro dissolution testing. The accelerated stability studies revealed that the optimized phytosomeformulation was stable under the stability conditions of temperature and relative humidity. Moreover, MPE and MPP had weight variation, and in vitro disintegration time within permissible limits according to IP. The dissolution profile of MPP was found superior to MPE capsules. The findings demonstrated the ability of Mucuna prureins phytosomes to maintain quality control features under accelerated stability conditions. Furthermore, phytosomes could be given in a capsule dosage form, allowing for a prolonged release of encapsulated extracts with long-term health benefits.','Mucuna prureins extract, phytosomes, accelerated stability studies, tablet, evaluation','The standardized extract of Mucuna prureins and phospholipids was used to make the phytosome complex. The optimized batch from the previous results was subjected to accelerated stability studies and the sample was evaluated for different quality control tests. These phytosomes also encapsulated 95.63 % of total phenolics, shielding them from the hostile environment of heat and humidity. The optimized batch of phytosomes was found stable at the end of 6 months from the readings of particle size, zeta potential, and polydispersity index. The phytosome capsules possessed the required quality attributes. However, the MPE and MMP capsules differed in the dissolution profiles. The results highlighted the potential of Mucuna prureins phytosomes to retain the quality control attributes in adverse conditions of accelerated stability conditions. Moreover, phytosomes could be delivered in the form of tablet dosage form, offering sustained release of encapsulated extracts that could lead to long-term health benefits. Thus, the authors of this study propose that phytosome drug delivery systems could be considered attractive options for the delivery of bioactive substances in the future.','-','Poonam Karekar, Suresh Killedar, Harinath More, Amir Shaikh, Sneha Joshi, Supriya Waghmare, Amruta Walvekar, Rahul Buchade and Sarika Patil (2023). Accelerated Stability Studies of Mucuna prureins Hydroalcoholic Extract Phytosome Formulation, and Evaluation of its Capsule Dosage Form. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 15(5): 1135-1139.'),(6759,'157','Performance of Pigs as Influenced by Different Housing Systems','P. Tensingh Gnanaraj, M. Pushpalatha and M. Murugan','Performance-of-Pigs-as-Influenced-by-Different-Housing-Systems-M-Murugan-169.pdf','',1,'A study was conducted to assess and compare the growth performance and carcass characteristics of Large White Yorkshire weaned pigs reared under different housing systems, viz intensive, semi-Intensive and extensive systems. System of housing had significant effect on growth, but degree of response varies and it needs to be assessed for recommendation in the field conditions. Parameters such as body weight, feed intake and feed efficiency were recorded at fortnightly intervals; and carcass traits at 180 days of age. Pigs under different housing systems showed comparable final weight, overall weight gain, and average daily gain and feed intake. Carcass traits such as carcass weight, dressing percentage, carcass length, ham, shoulder, loin eye area, and loin weight were comparable among pigs reared under different housing systems. However, extensively reared pigs had significantly higher feed efficiency (P<0.05), lower back fat thickness (P<0.01) and higher meat percentage (P<0.05) than the pigs reared under semi-intensive and intensive systems of housing. Based on this study, it is recommended that the extensive system of housing found to be improves feed efficiency and meat percentages in pigs. ','Growth performance, Housing System, Carcass Characteristics, LWY pigs','Piglets were reared under three different housing systems viz., intensive, semi-intensive and extensive systems. The growth and carcass characteristics of the pigs under different housing systems were compared. Extensively housed pigs had better feed efficiency with less back fat thickness and higher meat percentage than intensively and semi-intensively housing pigs.','-','P. Tensingh Gnanaraj, M. Pushpalatha and M. Murugan (2023). Performance of Pigs as Influenced by Different Housing Systems. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 15(5): 1140-1143.'),(6760,'157','Antiviral screening of seaweed native fucoidan and its derivatives against dengue virus NS2B/NS3 Protease (3L6P) and Methyltranferase (MTase -1L9K); An In-silico docking, ADMET and molecular dynamic study','Saravanan Muniyappan, Kothai Ramalingam, D. Vinod Kumar and Arul Balasubramanian','Antiviral screening of seaweed native fucoidan and its derivatives against dengue virus NS2BNS3 Protease (3L6P) and Methyltranferase (MTase -1L9K); An In-silico docking Arul Balasubramanian-170.pdf','',1,'Dengue virus (DENV) infections are the major life threat around the globe with millions of people life is at risk. The cure for DENV infection lays an hectic challemge due to the lack of Antidengue drugs or vaccines which had lead to the enormous demand for a potent lead molecules for the cure, prophylaxis and treatment of Dengue infections. Here an in-silico docking work on native seaweed fucoidan and its derivatives in structure-function investigation of DENV protease and Methyltransferase, the largest non-structural protein of DENV, which is responsible for replication of the viral genome, RNA capping and suppression of host interferon responses was presented. DENV-1 NS2B/NS3 Protease (3L6P) and Methyltranferase (MTase -1L9K) was designated as a prime targets because of its major role in the viral replication cycle. Theses enzymes were selected for the research on antiviral drugs. The sulfated polysaccharide Fucoidan was derived from brown seaweed Stoechospermum marginatum. It was subjected to acid hydrolysis to yield low molecular weight fucoidan monomer and it was characterised by FTIR, NMR, and Mass spectroscopic techniques. The SMFUC molecule was designed to yield 40 derivatives by the structural modification of the two methyl (-CH3) and two hydroxyl (-OH) of the native fucoidan. The methyl moieties were converted to carboxyl group and it was further converted to its ester, amide, aldehyde, acid chloride and ketone, the hydroxyl groups were acetylated, benzoylated, aminated, sulphated and phosphorylated. Further Desulphated SMFUC was designed for the Insilco docking, ADMET, MMSD and Molecular dynamic study against DENV-1 NS2B/NS3 Protease 3L6P and DENV-2 1L9K Methyltranferase. 3,4-diacetyl fucoidan showed highest ligand binding affinity GLIDE score of -9.849 kcal/mol against DENV-1 NS2B/NS3 Protease (3L6P) and 3,4-dibenzoyl fucoidan showed more binding affinity against DENV-2 1L9K Methyltranferase with a GLIDE score of -9.2kcal/mol amongst the native fucoidan and its derivatives. In-silico pharmacokinetic study of the these molecules were screened using SwissADME and sarADMET studies proved that these compounds were well absorbed by GI tract, and do not cross the blood brain barrier, Simulated toxicity simulation studies proved except phosphate fucoidans they are non-toxic and without a metabolic enzyme inhibition activity. Simulated molecular dynamics study against the optimized fucoidans showed a stable RMSD score of 3.8-4.2 for the Acetyl fucoidan-3L6P complex and 1.5-1.8 for Benzoyl fucoidan-1L9K complex. Hence it may conclude that seaweed fucoidan and its derivatives have high antiviral potential against DENV. These molecules might be lead for the emergence of antiviral drugs against DENV infections.','v','The dengue fever is a pathogenic disease caused by the dengue virus communicated through an mosquito vector Aedes aegyptii. Virus replication in host cells is carried out by the DENV non-structural proteins. These non-structural proteins are responsible for viral transcription and replication in the human host cell. In dengue virus, NS2B/NS3 protease is a trypsin-like serine protease and methyltransferase plays an major role in the cleavage of polypeptide, transcribed from the viral genome. The multi-functional property of the viral protease and methytransferase has been utilized as a prime target for drug discovery to cure the dengue fever. The present study focuses on screening and development of inhibitors of the targeted protease and methytranferase. A total of 28 fucoidans were docked against the protease and MTase. In-silico analysis are preferred before conducting any wet lab experimental work, because as it is economical and a less time consuming process.\r\nNative fucoidan derived from S.marginatum and its derivatives were docked against DENV-1 NS2B/NS3 Protease and DENV-2 Methyltransferase and the results of molecular docking showed that Acetyl fucoidan inhibit the DEV-1 NS2B/NS3 protease with the binding affinity–9.8kcal/mol, and benzoylated fucoidan exhibited the inhibition against DENV-2 Methyltranferase with the binding affinity of -9.2 kcal/mol.\r\nADMET of the 28 selected phytochemicals revealed that these compounds have very effective drug like properties along with the non-toxic, non-carcinogenic and non-mutagenic nature. The ADMET was considered as end analysis in the screening a large number of phytochemicals, following various reported techniques. All the fucoidans were non-toxic, non-carcinogenic except aminated and phosphate fucoidans and its corresponding desulfated derivatives. \r\nThe optimized 3,4-diacetyl and 3,4-dibenzoyl fucoidan exhibited a good GI absorption and non permeable to BBB. Hence these compounds are devoid of CNS related side effects. Further they obeyed the Lipinski’s rule of five without any violations and showed good drug likeliness property.MD studies prove the structural ability of the selected fucoidans to bind to the target DENV proteins for an acceptable period of analysis.\r\nIn the current research we have made an attempt to identify ideal DENV inhibitors that are specifically designed for the cure of DENV infections. The current work aimed to derive a novel molecule from the natural entity called fucoidan isolated from seaweed S.marginatum. These fucoidan derivatives are equally potent when compared with the reported natural biomolecules designed to target DENV strains. Overall, the findings of this study provide important insights into the relationship between fucoidans and the antidengie potentials of its derivatives 3,4-diacetyl fucoidan and 3,4-dibenzoyl fucoidan against DENV1 NS2B/NS3 Protease (3L6P) and against DENV2 Methyltranferase (MTase -1L9K) respectively. The goal of finding a cure for dengue in the next decade is highly feasible, judging from the encouraging Antidengue activity of fucoidan derivative against the DENV2 strain. \r\nIt was assured and hope that an efficacious anti-dengue fucoidan derivative in the foreseeable future. The future scope Indeed is to conduct in-vitro screening against live DENV strains to test the antiviral potential of the fucoidans.\r\n','-','Saravanan Muniyappan, Kothai Ramalingam, D. Vinod Kumar and Arul Balasubramanian (2023). Antiviral screening of seaweed native fucoidan and its derivatives against dengue virus NS2B/NS3 Protease (3L6P) and Methyltranferase (MTase -1L9K); An In-silico docking, ADMET and molecular dynamic study. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 15(5): 1144-1155.'),(6761,'148','Eco-friendly preparations of Heterocycles using Green catalysts and their Bio-evaluation: A Review','Pooja, Sushil Ahlawat, Ashu and Sakshi Goyal','Eco-friendly-preparations-of-Heterocycles-using-Green-catalysts-and-their-Bio-evaluation-A-Review-Pooja-107.pdf','',1,'The heterocyclic nucleus is an excellent precursor for the synthesis of a wide range of pharmaceuticals and agrochemicals, especially those containing N-or O-moieties. It is vital to develop methods to prepare heterocycles to synthesize organic compounds, especially the heterocycles found in natural products. Additionally, heterocycles are key starting materials for many drug discovery processes, making them essential for the development of new medicines. Since these nuclei have been proven to be highly useful in a variety of fields, including material science, analytical chemistry, and medicinal chemistry, synthesis of nitrogen-containing heterocycles like coumarins, dihydropyrimidinones, and imidazoles has been both attractive and challenging for chemists. The synthesis of heterocycles through conventional methods often involves multiple steps and harsh reaction conditions, such as high temperatures, strong acids or bases, or the use of toxic reagents. These conditions can limit the substrate scope and reaction compatibility, making the process less versatile and environmentally friendly. As a result of the development of new environmentally friendly procedures for organic synthesis to achieve the goals of green chemistry, organic synthesis has become increasingly popular. The purpose of green chemistry is to use biocatalysts and environmental-friendly solvents in mild conditions. In this review, we summarized the green synthetic methods and biological activities of heterocycles containing nitrogen and oxygen. These methods have shown great potential for the synthesis of bioactive compounds, and the use of biocatalysts has proven to be an effective strategy for the synthesis of heterocyclic compounds. Overall, green chemistry offers a sustainable approach to the synthesis of organic compounds.','Heterocycles, Coumarins, Dihydropyrimidinones, Imidazoles and Green chemistry','This review emphasizes the importance of green synthetic methods for the production of nitrogen and oxygen heterocycles, which are biologically active and potentially useful. In addition to offering clean reaction profiles and reducing waste, these methods are cost-effective, efficient, and have low side reactions. This review suggests some future directions for the development of more potent and specific analogs of nitrogen- and oxygen-containing compounds for the biological target. Moreover, the information illustrated in this review should also contribute to the design of new molecules that can be used to identify many more biologically active heterocycles for the benefit of humanity in the future. These new molecules may provide a range of potential therapeutic compounds that could improve the treatment of diseases in the future.','-','Pooja, Sushil Ahlawat, Ashu and Sakshi Goyal (2023). Eco-friendly preparations of Heterocycles using Green catalysts and their Bio-evaluation: A Review. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 15(1): 663-673.'),(6762,'149','Persistence and Ecological Risk Associated with a Combination Ready Mix Sumiprempt Formulation in Soil under the Cover of Okra Crop','Pooja, Sushil Ahlawat, Ashu and Rahul Kumar','Persistence-and-Ecological-Risk-Associated-with-a-Combination-Ready-Mix-Sumiprempt-Formulation-in-Soil-under-the-Cover-of-Okra-Crop-Pooja-197.pdf','',1,'Sumiprempt, containing pyriproxyfen and fenpropathrin as active ingredients, has high potential for managing okra pests. Taking into account their potential hazards to non-target organisms and the associated environment, a field experiment was conducted to assess persistence and associated risk to various non-target organisms. Achieving efficient chromatographic separation of two pesticides can be challenging due to differences in their chemical properties, such as volatility, polarity, and structural characteristics. It is very time consuming, laborious and non-ecofriendly method due to the use of large amount of solvents in the extraction of the two pesticides simultaneously. Thus, by using GC-MS/MS, this study attempts to develop a rapid and less expensive QuEChERS method to extract and clean pyriproxyfen and fenpropathrin residues in soil simultaneously. Several factors were investigated in order to validate the effectiveness of the method, including the impact of spiking concentration, matrix effect (ME), repeatability between and within assays, reproducibility of results, and precision. For both analytes, the limit of determination (LOD) and limit of quantitation (LOQ) are 0.005 mg/kg and 0.01 mg/kg, respectively. The percentage recovery for both insecticides ranged between 87.8 and 97.7% with a relative standard deviation (RSD) below 7.09%. The foliar application of Sumiprempt formulation was applied at recommended (37.5 + 112.5 g a.i. /ha) and double recommended dose (70 + 225 g a.i. /ha) in the soil led to very low initial deposits of pyriproxyfen (0.029, 0.047 mg/kg) and fenpropathrin (0.054, 0.097 mg/kg) at respective doses. Both insecticides were not found to persist after 1st day of application. The risk quotient values for pyriproxyfen were in the range of 0.01-0.1 and for fenpropathrin greater than 0.1, implying that pyriproxyfen offers low risk whereas fenpropathrin offers moderate risk to soil invertebrates at both doses. This clearly indicates that longer persistence of these insecticides in soil can be toxic to organisms other than those that are targeted.','Combination formulation, QuEChERS, risk assessment, pyriproxyfen and fenpropathrin','It can be concluded from the above results that the methodology used for the extraction and cleanup of soil samples was simple, sensitive, selective, and repeatable and could be extended for monitoring various formulations based on the above premix formulation. The application of sumipremt formulation results in a very low amount of pyriproxyfen and fenpropathrin residues in soil under the cover of the okra crop. Due to the high temperature and humidity conditions in the field, residues persisted only for 1 day after the application (DAA). These lower amounts of pyriproxyfen and fenpropathrin, however, posed low and moderate risks to earthworms. Consequently, if farmers do not comply with recommended doses, residues of pyriproxyfen and fenpropathrin will pose an unacceptable risk to earthworms in the soil under the okra crop.','-','Pooja, Sushil Ahlawat, Ashu and Rahul Kumar (2023). Persistence and Ecological Risk Associated with a Combination Ready Mix Sumiprempt Formulation in Soil under the Cover of Okra Crop. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 15(2): 1281-1288.'),(6763,'157','Nanoparticles in Cosmetics: The Safety and Hidden Risks','Nutan Badhe, Pratiksha Shitole, Yash Chaudhari, Swarup Matkar, Prashik Jamdhade, Tanmay Gharat and Rohit Doke ','Nanoparticles-in-Cosmetics-the-Safety-and-Hidden-Risks-Rohit-Doke-171.pdf','',1,'Nanotechnology is a prime example of innovation in the world of research and development since it promotes product effectiveness by incorporation of innovative techniques. The cosmeceutical sector is increasingly turning to nanotechnology to address some of the shortcomings of conventional approaches. Cosmetics are the personal care product category that is expanding the quickest, and the utilisation of these items has expanded significantly in recent years. A class of hair, skin, lip and nails care products called nanocosmeceuticals can be used to treat phototoxicity and ageing, wrinkles, hyperpigmentation, dandruff, hair loss, etc. Nanotoxicological investigations have raised concerns about the consequences of increasing nanoparticle incorporation into cosmeceuticals due to nanoparticles\' capacity to permeate skin and lead to adverse health effects. Challenges in the cosmetic industry include ensuring the safety and biocompatibility of nanoparticles, understanding their long-term effects on human health, and addressing potential environmental impacts. Careful regulation and continuous research are necessary to address these challenges and ensure the responsible and sustainable use of nanoparticles in cosmetics. The primary areas that are intriguing in the research of nanotechnology in cosmeceuticals involve the variety of unique carriers employed for cosmeceutical administration, the positive and negative aspects of commercial formulations, toxicity, and nanocosmeceutical constraints. The primary aim of this article is to present the positive and negative aspects of employing nanoparticles in cosmetics.','Nanocosmetics, Nanoparticles, Nocosmeceuticals, Risk and Benefits, Regulatory Guidelines, Nanomaterial','Nanotechnology is an exceptionally advanced field of research, considering distinctive characteristics of nanoparticles that are useful in the cosmeceutical industries. The cosmeceutical sector based on nanotechnology is growing rapidly and, being the most promising technology at the present time, has the potential to revolutionise the cosmeceutical market. As is widely known, a large number of items on the market include nanoparticles in some capacity. We need to investigate many of these materials and record their health consequences, especially when applied to the skin, in order to assess the toxicity of these particles, which is still a matter of much discussion and misunderstanding. Before being approved for usage, all nanoparticles used in the production of cosmetics must undergo practical application. After this test, the safe substances that may be used to make these cosmetics must then be legalised, together with adequate product labelling and effect control. Additionally, consumers who use cosmetics using nanoparticles must immediately report any unusual interactions to the proper authorities so that the market\'s secure products may be regulated and supervised for safety purposes.','-','Nutan Badhe, Pratiksha Shitole, Yash Chaudhari, Swarup Matkar, Prashik Jamdhade, Tanmay Gharat and Rohit Doke (2023). Nanoparticles in Cosmetics: The Safety and Hidden Risks. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 15(5): 1156-1161.'),(6764,'157','Impact of Crop Diversification on Soil Physical properties and Maize Grain Equivalent Yield in a Typic Hapludalf of Himachal Pradesh','Deeksha Choudhary, Naveen Datt, Sanjay K. Sharma, Pawan Pathania, Pardeep Kumar, Neha Chauhan, Kriti Gupta and Prakriti ','Impact-of-Crop-Diversification-on-Soil-Physical-properties-and-Maize-Grain-Equivalent-Yield-in-a-Typic-Hapludalf-of-Himachal-Pradesh-Deeksha-Choudhary-172.pdf','',1,'The present experiment was started in the year 2019 in the month of October and continued till November 2021 covering two seasons of rabi and kharif. The field experiment was conducted with ten intensive crop sequences in Randomized block design (RBD) with three replications at the experimental farm of Agronomy, Chaudhary Sarwan Kumar Himachal Pradesh Krishi Vishvavidyalaya, Palampur under the network of All India Coordinated Research Project on integrated farming system since 2018. The experiment comprised of ten treatments viz., maize-wheat, maize-wheat + gobhi sarson, dhaincha-cabbage-french bean, sunhemp-vegetable pea-french bean, maize + soybean-chickpea + linseed, rice-wheat + gram, hybrid sorghum + hybrid bajra-oats + sarson (hybrid), hybrid sorghum + hybrid bajra-ryegrass + berseem, babycorn-broccoli-french bean and maize-turnip-tomato. The soil of the experimental area falls in the order of Alfisols with Paleudalf as the great group as per the Udic Moisture Regime. During rabi and kharif season the crop varieties were applied with the recommended dose of N, P2O5 and K2O (kg ha-1). Among physical soil properties, the highest bulk density value was recorded in the hybrid sorghum + hybrid bajra-oats + sarson and sunhemp-vegetable pea-french bean, whereas the properties viz., porosity, water holding capacity and water stable aggregates recorded the highest values in the dhaincha-cabbage-french bean. The diversification of conventional maize-wheat cropping systems with legumes improved the physical properties of soil. Maize-turnip-tomato has obtained highest maize grain equivalent yield followed by babycorn-broccoli-french bean and the lowest values was observed in maize-wheat. ','Fodders, green manures, legumes, physical properties, yield','From the results it is concluded that cropping systems incorporating legumes and green manure crops had positive impacts on soil bulk density, porosity, water holding capacity, and water stable aggregates. These systems exhibited lower bulk density and higher porosity, which can improve soil structure and enhance water movement and nutrient availability. Additionally, the inclusion of legumes and green manure crops promoted the formation of water stable aggregates, indicating improved soil stability. Furthermore, the crop sequences that included vegetables and legumes demonstrated higher maize grain equivalent yields compared to cereal-cereal rotations. Overall, these findings highlight the importance of crop diversification in maintaining soil health and increasing crop productivity.','-','Deeksha Choudhary, Naveen Datt, Sanjay K. Sharma, Pawan Pathania, Pardeep Kumar, Neha Chauhan, Kriti Gupta and Prakriti (2023). Impact of Crop Diversification on Soil Physical properties and Maize Grain Equivalent Yield in a Typic Hapludalf of Himachal Pradesh. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 15(5): 1162-1167.'),(6765,'157','Efficacy of Entomopathogenic Fungi Paecilomyces spp. against Rice Stem Borer (Scirpophaga incertulas L.) and Leaf Folder (Cnaphalocrocis medinalis L.) under Natural Field condition','Hemlata Rajwade, Pojal Verma, Vinod Kumar Nirmalkar and R.K.S. Tiwari','Efficacy-of-Entomopathogenic-Fungi-Paecilomyces-spp.-against-Rice-Stem-Borer-(Scirpophaga-incertulas-L.)-and-Leaf-Folder-(Cnaphalocrocis-medinalis-L.)-under-Natural-Field-condition-Hemlata-Rajwade-173.pdf','',1,'Entomopathogenic fungi are considered the most versatile groups of bioagents which reduce the insect’s population as well as safe guard to environments by considering these facts the EPF was isolated from soils and insects. A field experiment was conducted at research farm of BTC College of Agriculture and Research Station, Bilaspur, (C.G.) during Kharif -2021-2022, to test the efficacy of isolates fungi, among them two most effective isolates of Paceliomyces spp. and combination with other bioagents was tested under natural field condition against two rice insects i.e. rice leaf hopper (Cnaphalocrocis medinalis) and rice stem borer (Scirpophaga incertulas) in two different rice var. Rajeshwari and Swarna. Three different spore suspension loads (1×107, 1×108 and 1×109 sporeml) of Paecilomyces spp. and combination with other bioagents i.e. Beauveria bassiana and BT were sprayed @10mll with Standard check chemical insecticides. Standard check chemical insecticide (Novaluron 5.25% + Indoxacarb 4.5% SC) observed most effective among all treatments when use @1.65mll and reduced rice leaf folder population (87.58% & 86.01%) and stem borer reduced 91.42 and 91.04%, While, Paecilomyces isolate 1 with spore load 1×109 was most superior after insecticide and among all EPF for controlling rice insect leaf folder (73% and 66%) and stem borer 81.71%, 82.92%, respectively for Rajeswari and Swarna var.','Paecilomyces, leaf folder, stem borer, Scirpophaga incertulas, Cnaphalocrocis medinalis','•Spodoptera spp. was better insect host for isolation of Paecilomyces spp.\r\n•25°C was ideal temperature for mycelial growth, average growth and sporulation.\r\n•Dextrose, Peptone was ideal media for growth and sporulation of Paecilomyces.\r\n•pH 7 was ideal for production of fungus.\r\n•Paecilomyces spp. 109 spore loads @10 ml-1 was better alternative option in safer management of rice stem borer and leaf folder.\r\n','-','Hemlata Rajwade, Pojal Verma, Vinod Kumar Nirmalkar and R.K.S. Tiwari (2023). Efficacy of Entomopathogenic Fungi Paecilomyces spp. against Rice Stem Borer (Scirpophaga incertulas L.) and Leaf Folder (Cnaphalocrocis medinalis L.) under Natural Field condition. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 15(5): 1168-1174.'),(6766,'159','Bioactive and Phosphatase Potential of Two Wild Mushrooms of Subtropical Forest consumed by Ethnic Tribes of Meghalaya, India','Madhusmita Borthakur, Susmita Paul, Sony Kumari and Birson Ingti','Bioactive-and-Phosphatase-Potential-of-Two-Wild-Mushrooms-of-Subtropical-Forest-consumed-by-Ethnic-Tribes-of-Meghalaya,-India-Madhusmita-Borthakur-2.pdf','',1,'Scleroderma polyrhizum and Morganella pyriformis mushrooms are unexplored and inaccessible, rarely found in the subtropical forest of lower Himalayan region of India. These mushrooms are the common source of medicine used by ethnic tribes of eastern India. The current study deals with the evaluation for their efficacy in free radical scavenging, antioxidant, and antimicrobial properties. The total phenolic content was analyzed along with reducing power and 1-Diphenyl-2-picryl-hydrazyle-hydrate (DPPH) assay. The phenolic content showed potent antioxidant components with a concentration range of 0.140 to 0.870 mg/g. The antioxidant activity of the extract of S. polyrhizum was higher than that of M. pyriformis. The mushroom extracts showed growth inhibition of pathogens, with the average inhibitory zone of 8-11mm for pathogenic bacteria and 13 mm for fungal pathogen, indicating this nutritive and therapeutic supplement of ethnic tribes as potent antioxidant and antimicrobial source. ','Wild mushrooms, free radical scavenging, antimicrobial, antioxidant activity','The metabolites of S.polyrhizum and M. pyriformis exhibited an effective free radical scavenging effect and reducing power capacity. The methanolic extract of S.polyrhizum exhibited better antioxidant properties, with IC50 values being 3.55mg mL-1and 13.92 mg mL-1 for S. polyrhizum and M. pyriformis, respectively. The extract of S. polyrhizum also showed high concentrations of phenolic compounds as compared to M. pyriformis. The studied extracts exhibited antimicrobial activity, inhibiting the growth of tested clinical pathogens. The findings reveal that the metabolites of mushrooms can be adapted as a natural converter of bound phosphate into available soluble phosphate that is involved in various metabolic pathways. The two wild edible mushrooms indicate that they are potent sources of bioactivities that can be bio-prospected for human benefits. \r\nThis is the first report on the studied mushrooms with bioactive and the antimicrobial properties, along with the cellular deformities, from forest grove’s in the northeastern part of India.\r\n','-','Madhusmita Borthakur, Susmita Paul, Sony Kumari and Birson Ingti (2023). Bioactive and Phosphatase Potential of Two Wild Mushrooms of Subtropical Forest consumed by Ethnic Tribes of Meghalaya, India. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 15(6): 17-24.'),(6767,'159','Heterosis Studies for Yield and Yield contributing Components in Sunflower (Helianthus annuus L.)','S.C. Nagrale, S.B. Sakhare, P.V. Yadgirwar, S.S. Nichal and P.V. Jadhav','Heterosis-Studies-for-Yield-and-Yield-contributing-Components-in-Sunflower-(Helianthus-annuus-L.)-SC-Nagrale-3.pdf','',1,'The present experimental material consist of four CMS lines and nine testers which were crossed in line × tester mating design to estimate the average heterosis, heterobeltosis and standard heterosis over the check LSFH171 for seed yield and Its important yield contributing traits in sunflower. The resulting 36 hybrids and 13 parents along with check viz., LSFH-171 were evaluated in randomized block design with three replications at Agricultural Research Station, Yavatmal. A broad range of heterotic variation observed for all the five yield and yield contributing parameters and it was ranged from -17.94% to 195.69%, 30.51% to 132.42% and -40.61% to 68.90% over the average heterosis, heterobeltiosis and standard heterosis over check LSFH-171 respectively for seed yield per plant. 28, 20 and 10 hybrids displayed positive and significant heterosis over the mid parent, better parents and standard check (LSFH-171) respectively and top three hybrids viz., ARM – 250 A × PKV- 103 R, CMS- 17 A × PKV-106 R and ARM – 250 A × PKV 106 R manifested highest magnitude heterosis over the mid parent, better parents and standard check (LSFH-171) for seed yield and these hybrids also showed significant heterosis for head diameter, 100 seed weight and seed filling percentage. Hence, these identified hybrids could be use for exploitation of heterosis after evaluating and testing with large multilocations trials.','Sunflower, heterosis, hybrid, line × tester, yield','In the present study top three hybrids ARM – 250 A × PKV- 103 R, CMS- 17 A × PKV-106 R and ARM – 250 A × PKV 106 R were found to be highest heterotic over the checks LSFH-171 and also showed highest magnitude of average heterosis and heterobeltosis. Hence, these hybrids can be commercially exploited using heterosis breeding after its evaluation in multilocation trials.','-','S.C. Nagrale, S.B. Sakhare, P.V. Yadgirwar, S.S. Nichal and P.V. Jadhav (2023). Heterosis Studies for Yield and Yield contributing Components in Sunflower (Helianthus annuus L.). Biological Forum – An International Journal, 15(6): 25-29.'),(6768,'159','AMMI Analysis of Nano urea formulations Evaluated under Irrigated conditions at North Western Plains Zone and Central Zone for the Yield Contributing Traits of Wheat Crop','Meena R.P., Tripathi S.C., Gill S.C., Verma Ajay and Singh G.','AMMI Analysis of Nano urea formulations Evaluated under Irrigated conditions at North Western Plains Zone and Central Zone for the Yield Contributing Traits of Wheat Crop-Ajay Verma-4.pdf','',1,'AMMI analysis for grains per head had highlighted highly significant variations due to locations, T×L interactions and treatments, with 73.9%, 12.2% and 3.6% respectively. First interaction AMMI factor contributed 48.9% whereas AMMI2, AMMI3, AMMI4 accounted for 22.2%, 13.1%, 6.1% respectively. Number of ear heads per m2 observed First two significant components accounted for 67.8% whereas the total contributions of significant components were 93.7%. While 70.3% and 29.7% of total T×L sums of squares were for signal and noise. AMMI based measures while considering only 71.2% T×L interaction sum of squares recommended (T7, T6, T8) as of stable performance for grains per ear head. Adaptability measures MASV and MASV1 used 93.7% of T×L interactions sum of squares had settled for T6, T8, T7 treatments for. Superiority index measures for grains per ear heads considered value and stable performance in 65 and 35 ratios in weighted average found utility of T6, T5, T12 treatments. Adaptability measures for number of ear heads per m2 pointed towards T3, T2, T4 treatments. Biplot analysis had found tight positive relationship among AMMI based measures with W1, W2, W3, W4, W5, W6, WAASB values. Analytic adaptability measures PRVG, HMPRVG, PRVGu, HMPRVGu expressed strong bondage with measures of central tendency mean, GAI, HM for grains per par heads. Clustering pattern among measures expressed superiority index measures irrespective of BLUE and BLUP estimates formed a cluster and placed with cluster of analytic adaptability measures number of ear heads per in the present study.','AMMI, Association analysis, BLUP, Superiority index, WAASB','AMMI analysis had highlighted highly significant variations due to locations, T×L interactions and treatments effects. AMMI based measures recommended (T7, T6, T8) as of stable performance for grains per ear head. Adaptability measures MASV and MASV1 had settled for T6, T8, T7 treatments for number of ear heads per m2. Superiority index measures as weighted average of trait value and stable performance in 65 and 35 ratios in found utility of T6, T5, T12 treatments. Biplot analysis had found tight positive relationship among AMMI based measures with W1, W2, W3, W4, W5, W6, WAASB values. ','-','Meena R.P., Tripathi S.C., Gill S.C., Verma Ajay and Singh G. (2023). AMMI Analysis of Nano urea formulations Evaluated under Irrigated conditions at North Western Plains Zone and Central Zone for the Yield Contributing Traits of Wheat Crop. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 15(6): 30-38.'),(6769,'159','Intravesical Therapy in Urinary Bladder Carcinoma','Dhingra P., Khanduri P. and Singh S.','Intravesical-Therapy-in-Urinary-Bladder-Carcinoma-Dhingra-P-5.pdf','',1,'Urinary bladder carcinoma is associated with recurrence and metastasis. Various treatment modalities have been tried for treating this malignancy. However, there is variation in results reported in different studies. No particular treatment protocol has been reported to exhibit complete remission or limiting the progression of the disease. Intravesical chemotherapy is a novel technique that aids in preserving the urinary bladder from surgical mutilation while at the same time increases the disease free period and survival rates in these patients. The main challenge of intravesicle chemotherapy is patient selection process, and close monitoring of these subjects as there may be localized side-effects to this therapy.\r\nThis review article presents an overview of various published articles in the field of intravesical chemotherapy of urinary bladder carcinoma. \r\n','Intravesical, therapy, urinary, bladder, metastasis, carcinoma','Despite prolonging disease-free period of survival, neo-adjuvant intra-vesical chemotherapy has failed to show no distinct findings in long term or in preventing progression of superficial malignancy into invasive urinary bladder carcinoma. Also, there is limited data representing survival rate intra-vesical chemotherapy using any of the known chemotherapeutic agents.','-','Dhingra P., Khanduri P. and Singh S. (2023). Intravesical Therapy in Urinary Bladder Carcinoma. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 15(6): 39-43.'),(6770,'157','Anti-inflammatory Action of Polypore Mushroom Bondarzewia berkeleyi in Western Ghats of Kanyakumari District, Tamil Nadu','S. Sreedevi and G. Hepzibah Beulah','Anti-inflammatory-Action-of-Polypore-Mushroom-Bondarzewia-Berkeleyi-in-Western-Ghats-of-Kanyakumari-District,-Tamil-Nadu-G-Hepzibah-Beulah-174.pdf','',1,'Mushrooms have been utilised for both food and medicinal from the beginning of human history. The ancient Greeks and Romans both held the firm idea that mushrooms, often called \"Food of the Gods\" in the former, would provide a tactical advantage to seasoned soldiers\". Mushrooms have long been revered in Chinese culture as a \"elixir of life\" and a source of nutrition. The goal of the current research was to assess the anti-inflammatory activity of a particular medicinal fungus, Bondarzewia berkeleyi. Lipoxygenase and cyclooxygenase, Nitric oxide synthase, myeloperoxidase were all tested and reported. In Lipoxygenase and cyclooxygenase at the concentration of 100 µl/ml, the inhibitory activity of was 33.55% and 30.41% respectively. Myeloperoxidase at the concentration of 100 µl/ml provided the best inhibitory action, which is dose-dependent. The largest nitric oxide scavenging effect for nitric oxide synthase was shown by mushroom extract, which had a 41.53% efficiency in 50 µl /ml. Recent reports indicate that edible mushroom extracts have beneficial therapeutic and health-promoting effects, especially in diseases associated with inflammation. With certainty, edible mushrooms can be called \"superfoods\" and are recommended as a valuable component of the daily diet. The aims of this review are to report the different types of bioactive metabolites and their relevant producers, as well as the different mechanisms of action of mushroom compounds as potent anti-inflammatory agents.','Mushroom, Bondarzewia berkeleyi, COX, LOX, MPO, anti-inflammatory','In summary, our research showed that the mushroom in concern possessed anti-inflammatory capabilities. This suggests that the mushroom could be considered a functional food with anti-inflammatory qualities. Now that we have a clearer grasp of the biological activity, we must turn our attention to identifying the molecules responsible for it. However, further research is required to learn how exactly these bioactive components and other crucial nutrients affect and interact with one another. To sum up, the aforementioned obstacles must be addressed through further study before macrofungi can be universally recognised as one of the most important biofactories for the manufacturing of anti-inflammatory medications.','-','S. Sreedevi and G. Hepzibah Beulah (2023). Anti-inflammatory Action of Polypore Mushroom Bondarzewia berkeleyi in Western Ghats of Kanyakumari District, Tamil Nadu. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 15(5): 1175-1180.'),(6771,'157','Interferon-stimulated Antiviral Effectors against RNA Viruses: A Review','Lekshmi J. Das, Gnanavel Venkatesan, Sindhutai Bapurao Nagargoje and Dechamma H.J.','Interferon-stimulated-Antiviral-Effectors-against-RNA-Viruses-A-Review-Gnanavel-Venkatesan-175.pdf','',1,'Interferon (IFN) production is the earliest cellular immune response to a virus infection. Interferon-stimulated genes (ISG) are induced in response to IFNs and confer an antiviral state to host cells. There are numerous interferon effector pathways, many of which are not fully described. ISGs can target various steps of the viral life cycle and the coordinated effect of ISGs imparts antiviral effects, adding to complications in understanding. Many recent efforts have been focused on characterizing the mode of action of ISGs. Insight into IFN signaling and effector pathways during RNA virus infection will broaden the knowledge of antiviral proteins against them. We review here the current understanding of a few ISGs and their antiviral pathways blocking various steps of RNA virus infection in humans and animals. ISG products take part in a diverse role and further advances will expose unanticipated areas of antiviral research and vaccine development.','Interferon-stimulated genes (ISG), ISG-15, Mx, viperin, IRF-3, IRF-7','Interferon provides early immune defense against viral infection and imparts its action through ISGs, the final effectors of the interferon pathway. ISG-15, Mx, and viperin are the major ISGs against RNA virus infection, whereas IRF-3 and IRF-7 act as major regulators of IFN signaling. Antiviral effects of interferons reveal innate immune responses to inhibit viral infection and may help to elucidate effective strategies to treat viral disease.','-',': Lekshmi J. Das, Gnanavel Venkatesan, Sindhutai Bapurao Nagargoje and Dechamma H.J. (2023). Interferon-stimulated Antiviral Effectors Against RNA Viruses: A Review. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 15(5): 1181-1186.'),(6772,'150','Determination of Triazophos residues in/on Chilli fruits using Gas Chromatography-tandem Mass Spectrometry','Pooja, Sushil Ahlawat and Ashu','Determination-of-Triazophos-residues-inon-Chilli-fruits-using-Gas-Chromatography-tandem-Mass-Spectrometry-POOJA-116.pdf','',1,'In the present study, triazophos dissipation was observed on chilli, the residues of triazophos on human beings were assessed, and a waiting period was suggested for safety reasons for consumers. After applying triazophos (Truzo 40 EC) at 500 g a.i.ha-1, we found that initially 1.19 mg/kg of triazophos was accumulated on average. With the recommended dosage, the residues dissipated below the limit of quantification (LOQ, 0.05 mg/kg) in 10 days. The dissipation of triazophos in chilli followed first-order kinetics. Based on the calculations, the half-life is 2.18 days for recommended dosage. A waiting period of 12 days is suggested for the consumption of chilli sprayed with triazophos at the recommended dosages. ','Triazophos, dissipation, QuEChERS, waiting period, half-life','Half-life values for triazophos on chilli at the recommended dosage were observed to be 2.18 days. A waiting period of 12 days is suggested to reduce the risk before consumption of chilli. The residues of triazophos were found to be eliminated after 15 days. Therefore, it is recommended to wait for 15 days before harvesting and consuming chilli after the application of triazophos.','-','Pooja, Sushil Ahlawat and Ashu (2023). Determination of Triazophos residues in/on Chilli fruits using Gas Chromatography-tandem Mass Spectrometry. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 15(3): 744-748.'),(6773,'156','Persistence and Dissipation of acephate residues in/on Bitter Guard under field conditions','Pooja, Sushil Ahlawat and Ashu ','Persistence-and-Dissipation-of-acephate-residues-inon-Bitter-Guard-under-field-conditions-POOJA-137.pdf','',1,'The dissipation patterns of acephate in bitter gourd fruits were studied after the application of acephate at the fruiting stage. Acephate was applied at the rate of 560 g a.i/ha on bitter gourd fruits and the fruit samples were collected at the 0, 1st, 3rd, 5th, 7th, 10th, 15th, 21st, 25th, and 30th day after spray. The initial deposits of acephate in bitter gourd fruits from the treatment (T1) was 0.229 mg/kg with a half-life of 2.35 days. Based on the persistence studied waiting period of 7 days is suggested for acephate on bitter gourd from a consumer safety point of view.','Bitter gourd, dissipation pattern, acephate, recommended dose GC-MS/MS, waiting period','The dissipation of Acephate in bitter gourd fruits followed first-order kinetics. Half-life values for Acephate on bitter gourd at the recommended dosage were observed to be 2.35 days. The residues of Acephate were found to be eliminated after 7 days. Therefore, it is recommended to wait for 7 days before harvesting and consuming bitter gourd after the application of Acephate.','-','Pooja, Sushil Ahlawat and Ashu (2023). Persistence and Dissipation of acephate residues in/on Bitter Guard under field conditions. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 15(4): 824-828.'),(6774,'159','Study on Diversity and Bio-Monitoring of Mamchari Dam in District Karauli (Rajasthan), India, with Special Reference to Algal Flora','Rameshi Meena and Vijendra K. Sharma','Study-on-Diversity-and-Bio-Monitoring-of-Mamchari-Dam-in-District-Karauli-(Rajasthan)-India,-with-Special-Reference-to-Algal-Flora-Rameshi-Meena-6.pdf','',1,'Bio-monitoring is considered to be a key process that enables biological indicators to survey the ecological healthiness of the habitat. The present study was conducted to assess the water quality by using biotic communities like algae which play an important role in aquatic ecosystems. This study was carried out for two years February 2018 to January 2020 in three different season’s viz. summer, monsoon and winter season to manuscript the diversity of algae and bio-monitoring purposes at Mamchari dam situated in district Karauli (Rajasthan). This lentic ecosystem is located in the local sub-basin of the Gambhir river basin near Village Mamchari, Keladevi road and approachable 15 km far from the city of Karauli in Karauli district toward the east of Rajasthan state of India. A total number of 42 algal species belonging to four different classes i.e. Chlorophyceae, Bacillariophyceae, Cyanophyceae and Euglenophyceae were reported from the two sampling sites studied. The class Chlorophyceae was dominated with 23 species (55%) followed by nine species of Bacillariophyceae (21%), eight species of Cyanophyceae (19%) and two species of Euglenophyceae (5%). The seasonal variation with respect to algal diversity was documented among summer (27 and 18 species), monsoon (9 and 8species) and winter season (19 and 19species) from the Site-I and Site-II, respectively. A total number of twelve pollution-tolerant genera such as Chlorella, Chlamidomonas, Closterium, Scenedesmus, Cyclotella, Synedra, Navicula, Nitzschia, Euglena, Phacus, Microcystis and Oscillatoria were reported. The Palmer Pollution Index 22, 4, 17 at Site-I and 8, 4, 8 at Site-II was calculated during summer, monsoon and winter season, respectively. This view discusses about the challenges in aquatic-bio monitoring of water system and provide an elementary vision into fresh water bio indicators and their role in assessment of water quality. This will be appropriate method for evaluation of ecosystem and important to quality control plan for aquatic systems.','Algae, Bio-monitoring, Diversity, Mamchari dam, Water Pollution','In the present investigation, the study on the algal diversity of Mamchari dam, a freshwater dam, situated in Karauli district (Rajasthan) was explored for the first time. The investigation resulted in a total of forty-two species belonging to twenty-seven genera and four classes of freshwater algal flora was recognized during the study period. The study was conducted to explore the diversity of algae along with seasonal variation and bio-monitoring status of the study area. The seasonality studies shows that 25, 9, 19 species and 18, 8, 19 species were reported during summer, monsoon and winter season at Site-I and Site-II, respectively. A total number of twelve pollution-tolerant genera were reported from the study area. The Palmer Pollution Index 22, 4, 17 at Site-I and 8, 1, 8 at Site-II was calculated during summer, monsoon and winter season, respectively. Further, it indicates the study area was found high organic pollution during summer season, organic pollution during winter season and lack organic pollution in monsoon season at the Site-I. Besides, at the Site-II all three season found lack organic pollution. This increase of organic pollution is due to anthropogenic activities at Site-I. Thus, if water bodies are to be preserved for their intended use, one should protect their biota and maintain a sustainable and holistic approach to conserve such water systems. Scientists, environmentalists, local inhabitants and youth need joint efforts to protect water quality and biodiversity of this precious dam system. Regular monitoring of freshwater ecosystems, documentation of algal flora and study of their utility is encouraging area for future research. Effective methods to be adopt for Karauli founded on algal flora usefulness. Future scope of this study takes in the direction of:\r\n•Phytoremediation\r\n•Fish culture\r\n•Algal farming for food resource\r\n','-','Rameshi Meena and Vijendra K. Sharma (2023). Study on Diversity and Bio-Monitoring of Mamchari Dam in District Karauli (Rajasthan) India, with Special Reference to Algal Flora. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 15(5): 44-52.'),(6775,'159','Genetic Variability and Character Association for Grain Yield and it’s Related Traits in South Indian Rice (Oryza sativa L.) Varieties','Krishnamrutha T. Suresh, S.V. Sai Prasad, C.V. Sameer Kumar and T. Ramesh','Genetic-Variability-and-Character-Association-for-Grain-Yield-and-it’s-Related-Traits-in-South-Indian-Rice-(Oryza-sativa-L.)-Varieties-Krishnamrutha-T-Suresh-7.pdf','',1,'With current trend in the population growth, the demand for food in most parts of the world is increasing year by year. However, variability in yield among the crop species may be exhausted sooner or later, limiting the potential for additional crop improvement. As a result, understanding the genetic diversity of crop species is crucial for any crop improvement programmes. Hence the present investigation was carried out at Indian Institute of Rice Research, Hyderabad during kharif 2022 with 96 rice lines to assess the genetic variability for yield and its attributing traits. Analysis of variance revealed highly significant differences for all the traits studied. The estimates of PCV were slightly higher than the corresponding GCV for days to 50% flowering, days to maturity, plant height, panicle length, number of grains/panicle, weight of grains/panicle, 1000 grain weight and SPAD indicating that direct selection can be practiced for these characters. High heritability with high genetic advance were recorded for days to 50% flowering, flag leaf length& width, number of grains/panicle, weight of grains/panicle, 1000 grain weight and SPAD before booting indicating predominance of additive gene action. Correlation studies revealed that, the grain yield/plot had a significant and positive association with number of productive tillers/meter (0.27), weight of grains/panicle (0.32), biomass/plot (0.93) and harvest index (0.40). Tocher\'s clustering approach was used to group all genotypes into 10 clusters in which, cluster II was found to be the largest with 47 genotypes.','Rice, Lattice design, Genetic variability, Correlation, Genetic diversity','From the findings of present investigation, it can be concluded that a significant degree of genetic variation exists in ninety-six South Indian rice genotypes, since they displayed a broad range of variance for all of the traits evaluated. \r\nHigher estimates of genetic parameters like PCV, GCV, broad sense heritability and genetic advance were observed for number of grains/panicle, weight of grains/panicle and 1000 grain weight indicating predominance of additive gene action. As a result, these traits are fixable and should be prioritised in future crop improvement programmes. The attributes such as, number of productive tillers/meter, weight of grains/panicle, biomass/plot, and harvest index might be utilised for yield enhancement, since they have a direct positive influence on grain yield/plot. D2 analysis revealed that selected genotypes are highly diverse and are grouped into a total of 10 clusters. The accessions belonging to most distant clusters, namely (VIII and X), and (VI and X) might be used directly or as parents in the hybridization programme for yield improvement.\r\n','-','Krishnamrutha T. Suresh, S.V. Sai Prasad, C.V. Sameer Kumar and T. Ramesh (2023). Genetic Variability and Character Association for Grain Yield and it’s Related Traits in South Indian Rice (Oryza sativa L.) Varieties. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 15(6): 53-59.'),(6776,'159','Bio-Efficacy of Combination Product Novaluron 9.45% + Lambda Cyhalothrin 1.9% ZC (GPI 1316) against Tomato Fruit Borer, Helicoverpa armigera (Hubner) in Western Ghat Region of Karnataka','Raghunatha R., N. Aswathanarayana Reddy, Suvarna Patil, R.B. Hirekurubar, Dileep Kumar N.T., C.G. Yadava and Chandan K.','Bio-Efficacy of Combination Product Novaluron 9.45 Lambda Cyhalothrin 1.9 ZC (GPI 1316) against Tomato Fruit Borer, Helicoverpa armigera (Hubner) in Western Ghat Region of Karnataka-Raghunatha R-8.pdf','',1,'Tomato is more prone to attack of several insect pests mainly due to its tenderness and softness as compared to other crops. The crop is devastated by an array of pests like jassids, aphids, tobacco caterpillar, flea beetles, leaf miners, spider mites, and fruit borers. Tomato fruit borer, Helicoverpa armigera is the most destructive insect pest resulting in considerable losses in quantity as well as the quality of tomato fruits to the extent of 50 to 80 per cent. A field experiment was conducted to evaluate the bio-efficacy of GPI 1316 (Novaluron 9.45% + Lambda-cyhalothrin 1.9% ZC) against tomato fruit borer, Helicoverpa armigera at College of Horticulture farm, Sirsi during Kharif, 2019 and 2020. The treatment includes T1-Novaluron 9.45% + Lambda-cyhalothrin 1.9% ZC @ 78g a.i./ha; T2- Novaluron 9.45% + Lambda-cyhalothrin 1.9% ZC @ 90g a.i./ha; T3- Novaluron 9.45% + Lambda-cyhalothrin 1.9% ZC @ 102 g a.i./ha; T4- Novaluron 10 % EC @ 75g a.i./ha; T5-Lambda-cyhalothrin 5% EC @ 15g a.i./ha and T6- Novaluron 5.25% + Indoxacarb 4.5% SC @ 85.32g a.i./ha, and T7-Untreated check. Results revealed that, the treatment Novaluron 9.45% + Lambda-cyhalothrin 1.9% ZC @ 90 g. a.i./ha was found to be most effective in reducing the population of Helicoverpa armigera (Hübner) and recorded higher fruit yield with maximum cost-benefit ratio. ','Bio-efficacy, combination product, fruit borer, Helicoverpa armigera, tomato','Novaluron 9.45% + Lambda-cyhalothrin 1.9% ZC @ 90 g a.i./ha treatment was found to be the most effective dose in reducing the population of H. armigera and recorded higher fruit yield and maximum cost-benefit ratio. ','-','Raghunatha R., N. Aswathanarayana Reddy , Suvarna Patil, R.B. Hirekurubar, Dileep Kumar N.T. , C.G. Yadava and Chandan K. (2023). Bio-Efficacy of Combination Product Novaluron 9.45% + Lambda Cyhalothrin 1.9% ZC (GPI 1316) against Tomato Fruit Borer, Helicoverpa armigera (Hubner) in Western Ghat Region of Karnataka. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 15(6): 60-65.'),(6777,'159','Effect of GA3 on Growth and Flowering of Pink Rain Lily (Zephyranthes rosea Lindl.) in the Terai Region of West Bengal',' Sujit Rai, Soumen Maitra, Indrajit Sarkar, Arpita Mandal Khan, Jagadish Chandra Jana, Nandita Sahana and Avijit Kundu ','Effect-of-GA3-on-Growth-and-Flowering-of-Pink-Rain-Lily-(Zephyranthes-rosea-Lindl.)-in-the-Terai-Region-of-West-Bengal-Sujit-Rai-9.pdf','',1,'In the present study, the effect of GA3 was found reinforcing in enhancing the overall quality in studied minor bulbous ornamental. The dipping of bulbs alone in 300ppm GA3 solution for 6 hours found more effective than plant spraying and combination of both.','Pink Rain Lily, Zephyranthes, GA3, bulb dipping, foliar spray, plant growth regulator','In the present study, the effect of GA3 was found reinforcing in enhancing the overall quality in studied minor bulbous ornamental. The dipping of bulbs alone in 300ppm GA3 solution for 6 hours found more effective than plant spraying and combination of both.','-','Sujit Rai, Soumen Maitra, Indrajit Sarkar, Arpita Mandal Khan, Jagadish Chandra Jana, Nandita Sahana and Avijit Kundu (2023). Effect of GA3 on Growth and Flowering of Pink Rain Lily (Zephyranthes rosea Lindl.) in the Terai Region of West Bengal. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 15(6): 66-70.'),(6778,'159','Effects of Iron on Crops and Availability of Iron in Soil: A Review','Porkodi G., Ramamoorthi P. and David Israel Mansingh M.','Effects-of-Iron-on-Crops-and-Availability-of-Iron-in-Soil-A-Review-G-Porkodi-10.pdf','',1,'Iron (Fe) is the fourth most common element in soil. Among the micronutrients, Fe was the first micronutrient identified as essential for plant growth. In the metabolic processes of plants, Fe is necessary for a number of respiratory enzymes and metabolic activities related to photosynthesis. Legumes use iron extensively for nodule formation to fix atmospheric nitrogen. Green plant tissue contains between 50 and 100 mg of iron per kg of dry weight. Fe is therefore one of the most prominent micronutrients in plants. Although iron is the fourth most abundant element in soil, plant deficiency is the most common. In early, emerging leaves, iron-deficiency chlorosis (IDC) develops as interveinal to complete chlorosis; in the worst case, this can lead to crop damage and yield losses. There is a yield loss of between 16 and 32% due to Fe deficiency. An iron content of more than 7.5 mg kg-1 in soil samples is considered sufficient. Diethylene Triamine Penta Acetate (DTPA) extractable zinc, iron, copper, and manganese are presently deficient in 48.1%, 11.2%, 7%, and 5.1% of Indian soils, respectively. In India, the states of Karnataka (35%), H.P. (27%), Maharashtra (24%), Haryana (20%), Tamil Nadu (17%), and Punjab (14%) are the most deficient in Fe. The addition of iron enriched manures improves the availability of nutrients due to stable organo-metallic/iron complexes formed with organic matter during the enrichment process, which prevents the nutrients from fixing and makes them available to the plant root system during crop growth.','Iron (Fe), Iron deficiency chlorosis (IDC), pH, Available Fe, Toral Fe, Fe uptake','Iron is one of the most essential for plant growth. This element is abundantly present in the soil. It required for enzyme activities in plant viz., cytochromes, peroxidase, and catalase, phytoferritin and ferredoxin. Iron deficiency is commonly occurred in calcareous soils. It is the one of the major problems in groundnut crop, because groundnut is highly susceptible to iron deficiency which affects economic yield. \r\nIn recent years, the productivity of crops getting reduced due to inadequate soil fertility along with imbalanced fertilizer management. To overcome these problem, good management practices and integrated fertilizer management with right kind of nutrients at right time by adapting right method of application has significantly increased availability of iron thereby increasing crop yield. \r\n','-','Porkodi G., Ramamoorthi P. and David Israel Mansingh M. (2023). Effects of Iron on Crops and Availability of Iron in Soil: A Review. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 15(6): 71-78.'),(6779,'159','Pharmacognostic Evaluation of Momordica dioica Fruit','Subhashchandra K. Patel, Hirenkumar R. Chaudhary and Tejal R. Gandhi ','Pharmacognostic-Evaluation-of-Momordica-dioica-Fruit-Subhashchandra-K-Patel-11.pdf','',1,'The purpose of this study was to determine the pharmacognostic profile of Momordica dioica (MD) fruit in accordance with World Health Organization recommendations to ensure the purity, safety, and efficacy of this medicinal plant. The macroscopic and microscopic properties of the focus plant were examined as standardization parameters. Preliminary phytochemical screening was performed on petroleum ether and methanol extracts. The extracts were also utilized to analyze total phenol and flavonoid levels as well as a Thin Layer Chromatography analysis. The fruit of plants displayed helpful diagnostic traits in terms of shape, size, color, odor, surface properties, and microscopic pictures. The results showed that the amounts of total ash, acid-insoluble ash, and water-soluble ash were 7.4 ± 0.1% w/w, 2.3 ± 0.1% w/w, and 5.2 ± 0.1% w/w, respectively. The extractive values of ethanol, water, and ether were determined to be 17.8 ± 0.3% w/w, 20.5 ± 0.5% w/w, and 4.1 ± 0.2% w/w, respectively. The loss on drying was 10.23 ± 0.72% w/w, and the foreign matter was 1.0 ± 0.8% w/w. Glycosides, carbohydrates, phenolic substances, flavonoids, alkaloids, terpenoids, proteins, saponins, lipids, steroids, and tannins were all found during the phytochemical screening. The total flavonoid concentration in the methanol extract of MD was discovered to be 125 mg/g of quercetin equivalent, while the total phenol content was determined to be 64 mg/g of gallic acid equivalent. Charantin was detected in methanol extract at Rf 0.45, and a violet spot emerged when compared to the marker. The information obtained from this study will be useful for the authentication of MD fruit and quality control. It would be beneficial to establish pharmacopoeial standards using qualitative and quantitative microscopic features.','Momordica dioica, Macroscopy, Microscopy, Preliminary physiochemical screening, Physicochemical parameters','The quality and safety of herbal medications have given rise to various issues, and the Indian herbal business is expanding rapidly. Macroscopy, microscopy, and proximate analysis, among other standardization parameters of Momordica dioica Roxb. fruit examined in the current study, may be used as a quick and precise tool in herbal research for the identification and adulteration of the study herb as well as to set quality standards and specifications for therapeutic safety, efficacy, and shelf-life of herbal drugs.','-','Subhashchandra K. Patel, Hirenkumar R. Chaudhary and Tejal R. Gandhi (2023). Pharmacognostic Evaluation of Momordica dioica Fruit. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 15(6): 79-85.'),(6780,'159','Design of a Validated HPLC Methodology for the Measurement of Linoleic Acid and Beta Sitosterol in Solanum nigrum',' Arpan Chakraborty, Arka Bhattacharjee, Baishakhi Mondal, Manas Chakraborty, Goutam Mukhopadhyay and Alpana Majumder ','Design-of-a-Validated-HPLC-Methodology-for-the-Measurement-of-Linoleic-Acid-and-Beta-Sitosterol-in-Solanum-Nigrum-Arpan-Chakraborty-12.pdf','',1,'Solanum nigrum, a member of the Solanaceae family, has a long history of medicinal use. It has immunomodulatory, anti-ulcerogenic, hepatoprotective, and anti-hyperlipidemic effects. It has been used to treat measles, malaria, and cancer. The plant contains alkaloids, coumarins, flavonoids, tannins, saponins, proteins, carbohydrates, glycosides, and phytosterols. S. nigrum is notable for its linoleic acid content, and the plant itself has a higher lipid content compared to other plants. S. nigrum is an essential ingredient in various herbal and Ayurvedic preparations. The objective of the study was to develop a reliable HPLC method for simultaneous quantification of linoleic acid and beta-sitosterol in S. nigrum extract berries. One potential challenge of the study could be optimizing the separation and detection parameters for accurate quantification of linoleic acid and beta-sitosterol. A validated RP-HPLC method was developed in accordance with ICH guidelines. The separation was achieved using an isocratic approach on a C18 column with specific conditions. The developed method demonstrated satisfactory linearity, with correlation coefficients of 0.9982 and 0.9971 for LA and BS, respectively. The LOD and LOQ values indicated the sensitivity of the method for both compounds. Overall, the HPLC method proved to be efficient, precise, and reproducible, offering advantages such as speed, cost-effectiveness, and the ability to maintain isocratic conditions throughout the analysis. The study contributes to the field by providing a validated HPLC methodology for accurately quantifying linoleic acid and beta-sitosterol in S. nigrum, which can aid in quality control and therapeutic applications.','Solanum nigrum, linoleic acid, beta-sitosterol, HPLC, validation','A precise and reliable HPLC method has been successfully developed and validated for the quantification of two active compounds, including LA and BS, in SNB extract. This method is deemed suitable for routine quality control analysis of SNB extract. The analytical conditions employed in the method offer excellent resolution for the separation of LA and BS, ensuring accurate quantification. The validation of the method was performed following the guidelines set by the ICH, and it successfully met all the crucial parameters, including robustness. The findings of this study are expected to serve as a valuable quality control reference for the standardization of these specific components in formulations or herbal raw materials.','-','Arpan Chakraborty, Arka Bhattacharjee, Baishakhi Mondal, Manas Chakraborty, Goutam Mukhopadhyay and Alpana Majumder (2023). Design of a Validated HPLC Methodology for the Measurement of Linoleic Acid and Beta Sitosterol in Solanum nigrum. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 15(6): 86-92.'),(6781,'159','Assessing Fungal Inoculants for Native P Mobilization','Amita Gharu Dhariwal, Indira Rathore and J.C. Tarafdar','Assessing-Fungal-Inoculants-for-Native-P-Mobilization--JC-Tarafdar-13.pdf','',1,'Four phosphate solubilizing/mobilizing fungi (Aspergillus candidus, Aspergillus ustus, Curvularia lunata and Phoma species) were isolated and tested for their population growth and efficiency towards phosphorus solubilization and mobilization from the native soil under both sterilised and non-sterile soil conditions after taking wheat as a test crop. The study is absolutely necessary in the present situation to know the exact contribution of plants and inoculated microorganisms for the mobilization of P from the native sources. The plant available phosphorus (P) in the experimental soil was less than 1% and among the 29% of organic phosphorus (Po), 70% was present as phytin form in the soil. The fungal population increased with time and a maximum of 15 to 16 times (under sterilized condition) and 12 to 13 times (under non-sterilized soil) was observed within four-week period. In sterilised soil, mobilization of plant unavailable P was higher, primarily because of an increase in the population of inoculated fungi. A positive influence on acid phosphatase and phytase activity was observed under wheat after inoculation, while alkaline phosphatase activity was not significantly affected in the test plants. In general, one third of the total plant-unavailable P was hydrolyzed by plants, whereas the contribution of inoculated fungi was observed at two-thirds. Plant contribution gradually increased with the plant growth period; maximum mineral and organic P hydrolysis generate by the plant sources was seen between 7 and 21 days. In general, more phytin P was hydrolyzed after 28 days of plant growth. The organic P was exhausted more than mineral P as well as contribution from microbial sources for mobilization of different P fractions was much more (52 to 87% of min-P, 53 to 87% of org-P and 50 to 80% phytin-P) than plant contribution (13 to 48%, 13 to 43% and 20 to 50% for min-P, org-P and phytin-P, respectively). The inoculation effect was more in an increase in plant biomass, root length, and plant P concentration. Among the four tested fungi, Phoma species was more efficient in disintegrate org-P as phytin, while Aspergillus ustus was establish to be the most efficient in min-P hydrolysis and enhance P nutrition for wheat plant. Our result clearly demonstrated the exact contribution from the efficient microorganisms for P mobilization from the different native P sources.','Arid soil, Fungal contribution, Plant contribution, Native soil phosphorus, Wheat','The present result clearly demonstrated the role of phosphatase solubilizing/mobilizing microorganisms for utilizing of different unavailable native P sources for plant nutrition. Our results also clearly partitioned the gradual plant and microbial contribution towards the exploitation of P from different native P sources. It was also clear from our result that Aspergillus ustus can be used in future for mineral P exploitation from the soil dominant in mineral P and Phoma species may be recommended for organic P exploitation from the soil dominant in organic P for plant nutrition.','-','Amita Gharu Dhariwal, Indira Rathore and J.C. Tarafdar (2023). Assessing Fungal Inoculants for Native P Mobilization. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 15(6): 93-104.'),(6782,'159','Knowledge of Stakeholders of Cotton Value Chain Management in Telangana State','K. Pravallika and S. Chandra Shekar, K. Madhu Babu and I. Shakuntala Devi ','Knowledge-of-Stakeholders-of-Cotton-Value-Chain-Management-in-Telangana-State-K-Pravallika-14.pdf','',1,'A significant portion of the world\'s population uses cotton for textile purposes. Due to its direct and indirect employment opportunities and contribution to income generation in the agricultural and industrial sectors, the cotton crop is crucial to the Indian economy. In order to determine the knowledge of cotton value chain stakeholders, a study was carried out in the state of Telangana. By using a random selection technique, a sample size of 120 stakeholders—80 cotton growers and 40 other stakeholders—was selected. According to the study, most respondents had a medium degree of awareness of cotton growers and other stakeholders (57.50%). With the exception of Age, Education, and Annual Income, all profile features of respondents demonstrated a significant link with the amount of stakeholders\' understanding of. (Multiple linear regression value 75.66). High seed cost of cotton hybrids, complexity in the technology to understand, inadequate knowledge on pink boll worm infestation, unavailability of transportation were the major constraints expressed and their suggestions for effective implementation of value chain activities in cotton.','Knowledge, stakeholders, value chain management','The farmers need to bring awareness among farming communities along with adoption of new varieties, techniques are implemented by KVK scientists, Agricultural Officers in Adilabad district. The majority of respondents possessed medium level of knowledge level of information in cotton value chain. Extension personnel involved in conducting capacity building programs need to be evolving an exercise that makes the farmers to comprehend value chain activities and right way of making inferences for cropping decisions. Field days need to be arranged at appropriate crop growth stage for farmers of the same and nearby villages. Subject matter specialists should explain the advantages of value-added based products like cotton seed oil and need based use of product amendments. Intensive use and need of information and communication technologies for database management for faster delivery of value chain management programs or projects in public private partnerships, NGO’s mode and popularizing, supporting the value chain management activities or field demonstrations through empowerment and employment of youth.\r\nThe Panchayat Raj Institutes (PRIs) need to be involved in publicizing the demonstrations and training of farmers and in ensuring participation of farmers from nearby areas for widespread dissemination of technology. The follow-up activities by extension agency to make the best use on value added product recommendations are inadequate was another constraint. Undertaking appropriate follow-up activities is a must for the success of any program or project. Timely reminding farmers through online platforms and giving holding hands in the procurement of inputs need to be carried out by extension agencies to win the confidence of the farmers.\r\nThe Telangana government focusing on the improvement and procurement of value added textiles. The government brings the presence of both backward linkages right up to the fiber and forward linkages right up to the retail, in physical as well as virtual platforms, supported by large pool of manpower with skills, male it a ready to exploit opportunity for industry. The Government focusses to create awareness among farmers through platform like Rhythu sadassu and bring more knowledge about technologies implemented in cotton crop. The major opportunities drawn from contract farming, substantial subsidy for cotton processing, and diversified application of cotton products to different industries. Gambling of cotton cultivation with monsoon, competition from imported starch, lack of coordination between growers and processors (Ramesh, 2005).\r\n','-','K. Pravallika and S. Chandra Shekar, K. Madhu Babu and I. Shakuntala Devi (2023). Knowledge of Stakeholders of Cotton Value Chain Management in Telangana State. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 15(6): 105-114.'),(6783,'159','Evaluation of different Genotypes of China Aster under South Gujarat Condition','Sudha Patil, Dipal S. Bhatt, S.L. Chawla and Tejal Patel','Evaluation-of-different-Genotypes-of-China-Aster-under-South-Gujarat-Condition-Sudha-Patil-15.pdf','',1,'The experiment was conducted for three successive years under All India Coordinated Research Project on Floriculture, Navsari Agricultural University, Navsari. The experiment was laid out in Randomized Block Design which included eight varieties of China aster and replicated thrice. Wide range of observations was recorded on vegetative, flowering and yield attributes and statically analysed for individual year as well as pooled of three years. Among all varieties evaluated, significantly maximum plant height (56.88 cm) and plant spread in E-W direction (35.31 cm) was recorded by var. Phule Ganesh Purple whereas, plant spread in N-S direction (36.13 cm) was noted in var. Phule Ganesh Pink in pooled analysis. Variety Phule Ganesh White produced flowers with maximum stalk length (33.96 cm) while, var. Arka Archana took minimum days to 50% flowering (77.31) and recorded maximum flowering duration (78.00 days), flower head diameter (5.81 cm), number of flowers per plant (58.73), weight of 100 flowers (322.06 g), flower yield (15.30 t/ha) with highest CBR (3.26). Moreover, significantly maximum vase life (8.67 days) was recorded by ar. Phule Ganesh White and maximum shelf life (4.31 days) by var. Phule Ganesh Pink.','China aster, Varieties, Evaluation, Yield, Growth','Out of the eight genotypes of China aster evaluated, variety Arka Archna recorded minimum days to 50% flowering with maximum flowering duration, flower head diameter and exhibited its superiority by registering highest yield in form of number and weight of flowers followed by Phule Ganesh Pink and Phule Ganesh White. Moreover, Arka Archana is most suitable for loose flower production while Phule Ganesh Pink and Phule Ganesh White are suitable for cut flowers due to longer stalk.','-','Sudha Patil, Dipal S. Bhatt, S.L. Chawla and Tejal Patel (2023). Evaluation of different Genotypes of China Aster under South Gujarat Condition. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 15(6): 115-121.'),(6784,'159','Identification of Stable Resistant Genotypes against Charcoal Rot of Maize (Zea mays L.) incited by Macroph¬omina phaseolina (Tassi) Goid','Mallaiah B., Bhadru D., Nagesh Kumar M.V.,Vani Sree K., Srilatha D., Siva Lakshimi Y., Lavakumar Reddy M., Sunil Neelam and J.C. Sekar ','Identification-of-Stable-Resistant-Genotypes-against-Charcoal-Rot-of-Maize-(Zea-mays-L.)-incited-by-Macroph¬omina-phaseolina-(Tassi)-Goid-Mallaiah-B-16.pdf','',1,'Charcoal rot of Maize caused by Macrophomina phaseolina is a major biotic stress responsible for increased yield losses in arid and semi-arid regions especially in areas with moisture stress coincides at flowering stage of the crop. The stalk rot infected plants can be recognized by grayish streaks on stem and numerous black microsclerotia visible on cut opened, shredded vascular bundles with charred appearance. The best way to manage the disease is through identification of charcoal rot resistant sources. Maize Research Centre (MRC), Hyderabad is a nationally identified centre for charcoal rot screening by Indian Institute of Maize Research (IIMR), Ludhiana, India. In the process of maize hybrid development with post flowering stalk rot resistance at MRC, a total of 36 elite inbreds along with resistant and susceptible checks were screened under field conditions continuously by following tooth pic-method of disease screening during Kharif 2020, 2021, Rabi 2020-21 and 2021-22 and identified six inbreds namely BML-100, BML-101, BML-102, BML-103, BML-106, and BML-108 are identified as lines with stable resistance to charcoal rot of maize with disease score less than 3 on 1-9 scale during all the seasons tested. The lines may be used as resistance sources in breeding for development of new maize genotypes with charcoal rot disease resistance.','Charcoal rot, Inbreds, Genotypes, Macrophomina phaseolina, Maize','Throughout the seasons, maize inbredsBML-100, BML-101, BML-102, BML-103, BML-106, and BML-108 has sown highly resistant reaction with disease score of less than 3.0 on 1.0 to 9.0 scale. These inbreds are highly useful for utilization in breeding programmes to resistant reaction against charcoal rot of maize with better yields and tropical and subtropical parts of India with semiarid climatic nature and monsoon with intermittent dry spells.','-','Mallaiah B., Bhadru D., Nagesh Kumar M.V.,Vani Sree K., Srilatha D., Siva Lakshimi Y., Lavakumar Reddy M., Sunil Neelam and J.C. Sekar (2023). Identification of Stable Resistant Genotypes against Charcoal Rot of Maize (Zea mays L.) incited by Macroph-omina phaseolina (Tassi) Goid. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 15(6): 122-125.'),(6785,'159','Plant based Chemical Inhibitors against SARS-Associated Coronavirus','G. Chelladurai, J. Nelson Samuel Jebastin, Anthati Sreenivasulu, Jai Shanker Pillai H.P. and Shobha M.S.','Plant-based-Chemical-Inhibitors-against-SARS-Associated-Coronavirus-Gurusamy-Chelladurai-17.pdf','',1,'Severe Acute Respiratory Syndrome (SARS) is a respiratory illness caused by the Severe Acute Respiratory Syndrome coronavirus (SARS-CoV). CoVs are known to cause lot of potentially lethal human respiratory infectious diseases, such as severe acute respiratory syndrome (SARS), Middle East respiratory syndrome (MERS), and the very current spreading infection like coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) outbreak. Regrettably, neither medicine nor vaccine has yet been identified to date to prevent and treat these diseases caused by CoVs. Therefore, effective prevention and treatment medications against human coronavirus are in urgent need. So far the aim of this study was to investigate the available natural drugs show in vitro anti SARS- CoV activity.','SARAS-COV, Natural drugs, Amino acids and Antiviral mask','According to the report, several natural medications derived from plant extracts and the chemical L-isoleucine could be used to generate novel anti-SARS-CoV therapies for the treatment of SARS. Furthermore, research on these compounds is required in order to produce an antiviral medication against COVID-19.','-','G. Chelladurai, J. Nelson Samuel Jebastin, Anthati Sreenivasulu, Jai Shanker Pillai H.P. and Shobha M.S. (2023). Plant based Chemical Inhibitors against SARS-Associated Coronavirus. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 15(6): 126-128.'),(6786,'157','Corrosion Inhibition properties of a Substituted Water Hyacinth on Mild Steel in 1M HCl','Pinky Sisodia, Renu Singh and S. Khalid Hasan','Corrosion-Inhibition-properties-of-a-Substituted-Water-Hyacinth-on-Mild-Steel-in-1M-HCl-Pinky-Sisodia-176.pdf','',1,'Finishing of metallic surface is pre requisite for any mechanical component which is generally carried out by pickling using mineral acids. But metals get dissolved readily in such acids if treated without inhibitor. So many synthetic chemicals are used as corrosion inhibitors which are toxic in nature, therefore need of a green corrosion inhibition has been required; water hyacinth has been found an excellent naturally occurring corrosion inhibitior. The inhibition efficiency of aqueous extract solutions of water hyacinth was examined by weight loss method at 37°C. The importance of inhibition efficiency was established conditional on the concentration of the inhibitor. A reduction in corrosion speed and growth in inhibition efficiency was practical with a gain in the concentration of the inhibitor. Inhibition efficiency expanded regularly with increasing concentration until reached the maximum. The maximum inhibition was found 97.7% at about 7% concentration of inhibitor. The increased inhibition was explained based on adsorption isotherms. The decreased corrosion rate and adsorption behaviour have been explained by Langmuir, Temkin and Freundlich adsorption isotherm. The constituents responsible for inhibition which were adsorbed on the surface of the metal were identified by Phytochemical analysis and Fourier Transform Infrared Spectroscopy (FTIR) spectroscopy. ','Corrosion inhibitor, adsorption, weight loss, Langmuir, Temkin isotherm, FTIR','1. The aqueous extract of Water hyacinth (Jalkumbhi) has been found an excellent natural corrosion inhibitor for mild steel in 1M HCl solution.\r\n2. The corrosion rate significantly decreased and inhibition efficiency increased with increasing concentration of inhibitor.\r\n3. The adsorption was of chemisorptions nature that provided a good protection.\r\n4. It was adsorbed molecules were poly phenols which was identified by chemical analysis and FT-IR analysis. \r\n5. The decreased corrosion rate was due to adsorption of plant extract which was discussed on the basis of Langmuir, Freundlich and Temkin adsorption isotherm. \r\n','-','Pinky Sisodia, Renu Singh and S. Khalid Hasan (2023). Corrosion Inhibition properties of a Substituted Water Hyacinth on Mild Steel in 1M HCl. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 15(5): 1187-1193.'),(6787,'159','Antidiabetic, Pancreas Protective and Antioxidant Potential of Ethanol Extract of Botryocladia leptopoda (J. agardh) Kylin on Streptozotocin-Induced Diabetic Rats','Suthan P. and Selvamaleeswaran P.','Antidiabetic,-Pancreas-Protective-and-Antioxidant-Potential-of-Ethanol-Extract-of-Botryocladia-leptopoda-(J.-agardh)-Kylin-on-Streptozotocin-Induced-Diabetic-Rats-Selvamaleeswaran-P-18.pdf','',1,'In this study, ethanol extract of Botryocladia leptopoda (J. Agardh) Kylin was subjected to analysis of its antidiabetic activity in STZ provoked diabetes animals. This study was undertaken to investigate the effect of Botryocladia leptopoda (Et-Bl) ethanol extract on glucose level, biochemical parameters, and carbohydrate metabolizing enzymes, in vivo antioxidants, and histological study of the pancreas in streptozotocin-induced diabetic rats. Different doses of Et-Bl (100, 200, and 300 mg/kg BW) were administered orally for 60 days. The effects were compared with glibenclamide. Treatment with Et-Bl and glibenclamide for 60 days resulted in a significant alteration in glucose level, biochemical parameters and carbohydrate metabolizing enzymes, in vivo antioxidants, and histological study of the pancreas. The effect at a dose of 300 mg/kg of Et-Bl was more pronounced than that of 100 and 200 mg/kg BW and brought all the parameters to near normal. Thus, the present findings suggest that Et-Bl may be considered an effective therapeutic agent for treating diabetes mellitus.','Antioxidants, Antidiabetic, Ethnomedicine, Botryocladia leptopoda, Streptozotocin','Our study determines effect of Et-Bl in diabetic rats. Et-Bl reduces hyperglycemia by increasing external glucose consumption and modulating glycolysis and gluconeogenesis. Et-Bl was as effective as glibenclamide. Et-Bl leaves were taken orally to manage diabetes and prevent complications.','-','Suthan P. and Selvamaleeswaran P. (2023). Antidiabetic, Pancreas Protective and Antioxidant Potential of Ethanol Extract of Botryocladia leptopoda (J. agardh) Kylin on Streptozotocin-Induced Diabetic Rats. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 15(6): 129-137.'),(6788,'159','Effect of Strength Training and Combination of Plyometric-SAQ Training on Selected Lower Body Strength Parameter among Men Football Players','Konark Roy and Dulal Debnath','Effect-of-Strength-Training-and-Combination-of-Plyometric-SAQ-Training-on-Selected-Lower-Body-Strength-Parameter-among-Men-Football-Players-Konark-Roy-19.pdf','',1,'SAQ, plyometric training, and strength training all have a major impact on athletic performance. SAQ, plyometric training, and strength training, or any combination of these three types of training, may improve soccer players\' motor skills and performance, according to previous study. The aim of this study was to look at how the participants\' lower bodies responded to eight weeks of strength training and a mix of SAQ and plyometric exercise. The researcher tried to eliminate the Avis Effect as maximum as possible. The findings of this study showed that after 8 weeks of training, the group that received strength training had significantly improved lower body performance compared to the groups who received SAQ and Plyometric training and the control group. This study recommended minimum 8 weeks of intervention is required for observable difference for improve lower body strength of soccer players. ','SAQ, Plyometric Training, Strength Training and Soccer','From the results obtained above these conclusions were made that there was insignificant effect of combination of plyometric and SAQ training on Lower body strength of selected soccer players. It was also concluded that there was a significant difference between the adjusted means of Lower body strength in strength training group and Control group and there was a significant difference between the adjusted means of criterion variable (squat performance) in Strength Training group and Combination of Plyometric and SAQ group.','-','Konark Roy and Dulal Debnath (2023). Effect of Strength Training and Combination of Plyometric-SAQ Training on Selected Lower Body Strength Parameter among Men Football Players. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 15(6): 138-141.'),(6789,'159','Encountering the effects of Leaf Spot (Alternaria polianthi) on Tuberose (Polianthes tuberosa) by Biocontrol agents, Plant extracts, and Plant Oils','P. Mahalakshmi, M. Ayyandurai and P. Mareeswari','Encountering-the-effects-of-Leaf-Spot-(Alternaria-polianthi)-on-Tuberose-(Polianthes-tuberosa)-by-Biocontrol-agents,-Plant-extracts,-and-Plant-Oils-P-Mahalakshmi-20.pdf','',1,'Tuberose is an ornamental crop grown in tropical and subtropical areas. The incidence of leaf spot disease caused by the fungal pathogen Alternaria polianthi is a severe problem that leads to reduced growth, yield loss, and is triggered by high temperature and humidity. In response, a survey was conducted in the farmers\' fields in Melachinnanampatti village, Alanganallur block, Madurai district, which recorded a maximum disease incidence of 50.34%. To manage the pathogen, bio-control agents (Trichoderma asperellum and Bacillus subtilis), plant extracts, and plant oils were tested in vitro. Eleven plant extracts were tested, including Neem, Ginger, Garlic, Moringa, Pungam, Calotropis, Castor, Eucalyptus, Bermuda grass, Nithya kalyani, and Bougainvillea, each with a 10% concentration. Ginger extract showed the highest inhibition (66.34%) compared to the control pathogen. Six plant oils were also tested, including Neem oil, Pungam oil, Groundnut oil, Illuppai oil, Mustard oil, and Castor oil, each with a 5% concentration. Pungam oil showed the highest inhibition (45.56%) among the plant oils. The bio-control agents Trichoderma asperellum and Bacillus subtilis displayed growth inhibition of 45.34% and 37.45%, respectively. From these results, it was concluded that biocontrol agents, plant extracts, and plant oils exhibited significant inhibition of the growth of Alternaria polianthi.','Alternaria polianthi, Biological management, Biocontrol agents, Plant extract, plant oils','From this study, leaf spot of tuberose is caused by Alternaria polianthi, which was isolated from infected symptoms and confirmed through morphological examination. The efficacy of different plant extracts, plant oil, and two biocontrol agents was assessed against the pathogen. Ginger extract, pongamia oil, and Trichoderma asperellum effectively inhibited the growth of the pathogen. These products will be tested under pot and field conditions to confirm their ability to manage leaf spot of tuberose.','-','P. Mahalakshmi, M. Ayyandurai and P. Mareeswari (2023). Encountering the effects of Leaf Spot (Alternaria polianthi) on Tuberose (Polianthes tuberosa) by Biocontrol agents, Plant extracts, and Plant Oils. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 15(6): 142-147.'),(6790,'159','Impact of Assertiveness Training on Nursing Students: A Quasi-Experimental Study in Amritsar, Punjab','Prabhjot Kochhar, Parvesh Saini and Gopal Singh Charan','Impact-of-Assertiveness-Training-on-Nursing-Students-A-Quasi-Experimental-Study-in-Amritsar,-Punjab-Gopal-Singh-Charan-21.pdf','',1,'Assertiveness is a must-have skill for today\'s nurses. Individuals who possess self-assurance can openly convey their emotions, including positive and negative ones, without displaying an overwhelming sense of fear or anger. Improved assertiveness may contribute to the growing confidence of the nursing profession, which is important since it helps nurses better communicate with their patients. A quasi-experimental study was conducted amongst B.Sc nursing 1st year students in selected nursing colleges in Amritsar district. The instruments employed in this study included a socio-demographic data sheet and the Rathus Assertiveness Scale. The data was analysed utilizing both descriptive and inferential statistics. The study results showcased a significant increase in the experimental group\'s mean assertiveness score, from a pre-test level of 11.85±7.335 to post-training score of 9.13 ±5.196, thereby indicating the effectiveness of the intervention (p=0.001). On the contrary, the control group didn\'t exhibit any significant change, with scores marginally increasing from pre-test average of 11.41±9.144 to post-test 2 average of 11.76 ±8.901, suggesting non-significance (P=0.808). Hence, the assertiveness training was significantly effective for the experimental group but displayed no appreciable effect on the control group. Assertiveness training plays a vital role in enhancing communication and self-assurance among nursing students. The findings of this study serve as a guiding light, urging the integration of such training programs into nursing education. The evidence presented clearly indicates that more comprehensive training interventions have the potential to cultivate assertive, competent, and confident future nurses, thereby elevating the overall quality of healthcare delivery.','Nursing profession, Assertive behavior, B.Sc. nursing students, Assertiveness training','In conclusion, assertiveness training plays a vital role in enhancing communication and self-assurance among nursing students. The findings of this study serve as a guiding light, urging the integration of such training programs into nursing education. The evidence presented clearly indicates that more comprehensive training interventions have the potential to cultivate assertive, competent, and confident future nurses, thereby elevating the overall quality of healthcare delivery. Developing assertiveness skills in nurses and student nursing is essential for enhancing patient care. The ability to express thoughts and feelings openly and fearlessly, regardless of their nature, can foster assertiveness and contribute to improved well-being.','-','Prabhjot Kochhar, Parvesh Saini and Gopal Singh Charan (2023). Impact of Assertiveness Training on Nursing Students: A Quasi-Experimental Study in Amritsar, Punjab. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 15(6): 148-152.'),(6791,'159','Characterization of Acidity in Acid Saline hydromorphic Soils of Southern Kerala','Anjali Bhadra Vijay, Mini V. and Rani B.','Characterization-of-Acidity-in-Acid-Saline-hydromorphic-Soils-of-Southern-Kerala-Anjali-22.pdf','',1,'The acid saline soils of the State are characterized as highly saline (EC>4), EC during summers range between 2.00-21.00 dSm-1 and potential acidic while post monsoon soils are These soils suffer from severe acidity and the presence of detrimental concentrations of Fe, Al, and S, which typically limit crop production and crop choice in these soils. As a result, characterization of soil acidity is most warranted here in order to create a suitable acidity amelioration/management technique. The acidity attributes of acid saline soils of Southern Kerala, known as Orumundakan were studied for two crop growing season in two phases of monsoon by collecting surface soil samples from 200 sampling sites of 17 panchayaths that belong to saline hydromorphic soils. The soils reactions ranged from ultra-acid to very strongly acid showing a pH (H2O) range of 3.09 to 4.49 in saline pre-monsoon phase and ranged between 5.01-5.62 in non-saline post-monsoon rice growing season. Lowest pH of 3.09 in saline phase was observed in Devikulangara panchayath of Alappuzha and highest of 5.62 in Muthukulam. Exchangeable acidity ranged between 1.30 to 5.10 cmol kg-1. The potential acidity of soils ranged from 19.40 to 35.80 cmol kg-1. The contribution of hydrolytic acidity to potential acidity ranged from 82.93 % to 95.89 % in pre-monsoon phase while in post-monsoon phase it ranged between 85.06 % to 96.61 %. Exchangeable Al3+ contributed greatly than exchangeable H+ to exchangeable acidity. ','Acid saline soils, exchangeable acidity, potential acidity, hydrolytic acidity, Orumundakan','Seasonal variation caused significant fluctuation in soil properties. The acid saline soils of Orumundakan tract recorded very low pH of 3.09 in saline phase which increased to a maximum of 5.62 in post-monsoon phase. The increase in soil reaction and reduction in acidity attributes following monsoon can be due to substitution of acidic ions such as H+ and Al3+ with basic cations. The potential acidity was very high compared to exchangeable acidity. Understanding of soil reaction is of prime importance for nutrient management and thus the agriculture production depends on soil reaction and acidity attributes. Liming and flushing out of salt, intermittent water stagnation, subsurface drainage can reduce surface acidity. The acidic, low- fertile and poor nutrient and water retention capable soils of Kerala need soil test-based, site-specific and crop-specific nutrient management strategies for sustainable crop production.','-','Anjali Bhadra Vijay, Mini V. and Rani B. (2023). Characterization of Acidity in Acid Saline hydromorphic Soils of Southern Kerala. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 15(6): 153-158.'),(6792,'159','Morphological Characterization of Some Colocasia (Colocasia esculenta L. Schott) genotypes of North- East India','Ramdeen Kumar, S. Alam, D.B. Phookan, N.S. Barua, Prakash Kalita and Partha Jyoti Borah','Morphological-Characterization-of-Some-Colocasia-(Colocasia-esculenta-L.-Schott)-genotypes-of-North--East-India-Ramdeen-Kumar-23.pdf','',1,'A morphological study was conducted in Assam state in 2017-18 to compare fifteen varieties of Taro (Colocasia esculenta L. Schott). The aim of this study was to provide plant taxonomists with valuable information that could assist in distinguishing and defining these varieties. The results revealed that the petiole length was highest (103.40±68.40cm) in Moh-Khuti, whereas the least was in Ghoti-Kachu (56.80±32.60cm). The plant girth ranged from 17.48cm (Moh-Khuti) to 13.28cm (Red Garo), while the number of leaves ranged from (4.67) Bor-Kachu to AAU-Col-32 (2.93). This research highlights the distinctive and distinguishing morphological features that can aid in the identification and description of various varieties of C. esculenta. Furthermore, it offers supplementary data that could potentially contribute to resolving the existing taxonomic debate surrounding colocasia. The outcomes of this study may ultimately facilitate the accurate delimitation of C. esculenta.','Colocasia, Diagnostic characters, Morphological characters, Plant taxonomy','This study addressed the existing knowledge gap by providing comprehensive information on morphology of fifteen varieties of Colocasia esculenta var. stolonifera found in the northeastern state of India. Prior to this research, there was lack of detailed morphological data on these varieties. Furthermore, the study presented compelling evidence that indicates close relationship between C. esculenta var. stolonifera and C. esculenta var. esculenta. The findings of the study also identified specific diagnostic characters for distinguishing Moh-Khuti and Ghoti-Kachu, two particular varieties within the species. Conspicuous diagnostic characters observed in the petiole length was highest (103.40±68.40cm) in Moh-Khuti, whereas the least was Ghoti-Kachu (56.80±32.60cm). The plant girth ranged from 17.48cm (Moh-Khuti) to 13.28cm (Red Garo), while the number of leaves ranged from (4.67) Bor-Kachu and least AAU-Col-32 (2.93). This study has provided valuable information regarding diagnostic and differential morphological characters that can aid in the identification and description of various varieties of C. esculenta. Notably, it was found that the cultivar Bor-Kachu exhibited the maximum number of leaves per plant followed by Moh-Khuti and Ahina. Additionally, Moh-Khuti displayed the longest petiole length with Naga-2 following closely behind. Plants are typically categorized into groups based on their similarities and differences in various traits including petiole length, plant girth, number of leaves, leaf color and petiole colour. These distinctive morphological characteristics play significant role in the classification and taxonomy of colocasia varieties. By providing additional morphological information, this study contributes to resolving the ongoing controversies in the taxonomy of colocasia. The obtained data can potentially aid in the delimitation of C.esculenta by facilitating the identification and differentiation of specific varieties within the species.','-','Ramdeen Kumar, S. Alam, D.B. Phookan, N.S. Barua, Prakash Kalita and Partha Jyoti Borah (2023). Morphological Characterization of some Colocasia (Colocasia esculenta L. Schott) genotypes of North- East India. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 15(6): 159-163.'),(6793,'159','Pesticide Tolerance Azotobacter sp., from Crop Field','Satyasundar Pradhan and Subhas Chandra Jana','Pesticide-Tolerance-Azotobacter-sp.,-from-Crop-Field-Subhas-Chandra-Jana-24.pdf','',1,'Use of chemical fertilizer is responsible for the loss of soil texture, soil fertility and also food nutrition. But, farmers couldn\'t cultivate without chemical fertilizers and pesticides because of the presence of huge pests in the environment. In this point, only pesticide tolerant nitrogen fixers are very much essential to take the challenges to return the soil texture and fertility. In relation to the current context, one Azotobacter sp., shown to resist the maximum percent of three chemical pesticides, CP α, CP β, CP γ, one bactericide and one bio-pesticide, Neem seed oil in presence of fertilizers, UREA, DAP, NPK (10:26:26), MOP, SSP, NPK (15:15:15) which ultimately reflected in crop production by supplying fix nitrogen to the soil. A critical work has been done to find out a pesticide resistance strain, Azotobacter sp., which ultimately will solve a long waited cultivator’s problem for crop improvement.','Azotobacter, Chemical fertilizer, Chemical pesticide, Chemical bactericide, Bio-pesticide','Farmers have been using huge amounts of chemical fertilizers, pesticides and bactericides in vegetable fields for more yields. It disrupts the chemical balance of natural soil. Thus, a reduction of the use of aforesaid chemicals is urgently needed. The present study specifies the use of Azotobacter along with a minimum amount of chemical fertilizers, chemical pesticides, and chemical bactericides in the field (vegetable) for crop production. Neem seed oil would be a good alternative to chemical pesticides and bactericides. Azotobacter could tolerate up to 0.4% of chemical pesticides and bactericides, 0.9% UREA, 1.1% DAP, 0.9% NPK (10:26:26) and 0.7% of MOP, NPK (15:15:15), SSP and 1.5% of bio-pesticide. The Azotobacter could be used as a biofertilizer for better crop production and minimum environmental disturbance. ','-','Satyasundar Pradhan and Subhas Chandra Jana (2023). Pesticide Tolerance Azotobacter sp., from Crop Field. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 15(6): 164-175.'),(6794,'159','Evaluation of Cut and Whole Seed Tubers under different Planting Geometry on Potato (Solanum tuberosum L.) Production','Kratika Nayak, S.P. Singh, Deep Singh Sasode, S.K. Sharma, Omprakash Parihar, M.J. Sadawarti, Vinod Kumar and Dharminder Verma\r\n','Evaluation-of-Cut-and-Whole-Seed-Tubers-under-different-Planting-Geometry-on-Potato-(Solanum-tuberosum-L.)-Production-Kratika-Nayak-25.pdf','',1,'A field experiment was conducted entitled “Evaluation of cut and whole seed tubers under different planting geometry on potato (Solanum tuberosum L.) production” at research farm, ICAR-CPRI-RS, Gwalior (M.P.) during the winter season of 2021-22. The experiment was planted under Randomized Block Design having 4 treatment combinations replicated five times. Size of seed tubers and planting geometry determine the quantum of seed for a unit area. Availability of 40-50g tubers for planting is problem as it constitutes 20-25% of total seed production. Under the circumstances, farmers have option either use higher seed rate or optimize seed rate by cutting seed tubers. The maximum plant emergence percent (90.50%), highest growth parameters viz., plant height (80.52 cm), number of stem per plant (6.34) and number of compound leaves per plant (78.82), yield parameters viz., total number of tuber (560.4 thousand ha-1), total tuber yield (46.33 t ha-1), fresh haulm yield (18.94 t ha-1), dry haulm yield (2.31 t ha-1), biological yield (65.27 t ha-1) were recorded with treatment whole seed tuber (60 × 20 cm²). However in contrast to above results, maximum harvest index (71.54%) found with cut seed tubers ( planted at 60 × 10cm²). Economic parameter viz., Highest cost of cultivation (`134400 ha-1) was recorded in cut seed tubers (planted at 60 × 10 cm²) but gross return (`370640 ha-1) was recorded in whole seed tuber (60 × 20 cm²). Highest net return (`255663ha-1) was recorded in whole seed tuber (planted at 60 × 20 cm²). Similarly, highest benefit cost ratio (2.2) was also recorded with whole seed tuber (planted at 60 × 20 cm²). The results indicate clear advantages of planting whole seed tubers (60 × 20 cm²) compared to cut seed tubers. Whole tubers performed best under 60 × 20 cm² but under compulsion of planting cut seed tubers, planting at 60 × 10 cm² spacing performed best among different intra row spacings.','Cut seed, Whole seed, Planting geometry and Potato','On the basis of one year experiment on silty clay loam soil of Madhya Pradesh, it is concluded that the whole seed tubers are significantly superior as compared to cut seed pieces in growth parameters viz., plant emergence, plant height, number of shoots per plant, number of compound leaves per plant, and yield attributes viz., fresh and dry haulm weight per plant, dry matter production and grade wise yield of tuber. Hence, planting of whole seed tubers is recommended. Under the situation of non-availability of whole seed tubers, planting of cut seed pieces is recommended at 60 × 10 cm² spacing.','-','Kratika Nayak, S.P. Singh, Deep Singh Sasode, S.K. Sharma, Omprakash Parihar, M.J. Sadawarti, Vinod Kumar and Dharminder Verma (2023). Evaluation of Cut and Whole Seed Tubers under different Planting Geometry on Potato (Solanum tuberosum L.) Production. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 15(6): 176-181.'),(6795,'159','Women’s Involvement in off-farm activities for Household Food Security; An Empirical Study in Coochbehar District of West Bengal\r\n\r\n','Trishita Banik, Sabita Mondal, Ushia Rai, Shrabantika Ghosh and Subhajit Chakraborty','Women’s-Involvement-in-off-farm-activities-for-Household-Food-Security;-An-Empirical-Study-in-Coochbehar-District-of-West-Bengal-Trishita-Banik-26.pdf','',1,'Farm women play a vital role in both the farm and off-farm sectors and contribute both to agriculture and household food security. But they lack access to resources, face various constraints, and maintain a poor socio-personal and socio-economic status. Thus, a study was conducted during 2019-21, to study the profile of the farm women, their involvement in off-farm activities, and the constraints they face in the Coochbehar district of West Bengal. The study was done in two blocks of the Cooch Behar district of West Bengal. 120 farm women were selected randomly from four villages as respondents. The data were collected by personal interview method with the help of a structured interview schedule. Statistical tools like frequency, percentage, mean, SD, ranking, etc have been used to analyze the data. It has been found that a majority of the farm women were of middle age, Hindu, belong to the general caste and APL categories and have a medium level of education. They were married, belonged to marginal farmers’ families with no land of their own, lived in mixed-type houses, cultivated 1-2 crops, had SHG membership, and reared live stocks. They preferred television as a source of information among the different mass media sources. The off-farm activities found in the study area were livestock product selling, tailoring, agricultural wage labour, entrepreneurship, non - agricultural labor, shopkeeping, and some private services. It has been seen that livestock product selling and tailoring were the most preferred activities. Socio-psychological problems and different external factors were found to be the most important constraints, women face, while thinking about or engaging themselves in different off-farm income opportunities. The study recommended raising the socio-personal and socio-economic status of the women. Policies across different sectors like agriculture, credit, labour markets, etc. need to recognise women as equal workers and contributors to household food security as well as the overall household economy by ensuring equal entitlements to resources, services, and returns to labour (wages). Women should be recognised as farmers and given full support (including credit and information) to pursue agricultural enterprises irrespective of their land ownership status.','Farm women, food security, Indian women, off farm activities','Food security is the basic right of human beings and women play a vital role in securing its accessibility and availability. Women are performing various responsibilities and roles in the food system of our society. They are not only playing the role of a mother and a housewife but also of a farmer, laborer, and an entrepreneur. Hence, it is required that the socio-personal and socio-economic status of the women should be raised and their education level must be improved. This would be a dependable achievement that will positively ensure food security not only in the short term but also in the long run. Hence, there is a need to start short-term intervention strategies for women who strive for household food security by working on farms and off farms, under unfavorable and underprivileged conditions. Off-farm activities should be diversified and rural farm women should be made aware of its advantages for livelihood. Policies across different sectors like agriculture, credit, labor markets, etc. need to recognize women as equal workers and contributors to agriculture and household food security as well as the overall household economy by ensuring equal entitlements to resources, services, and returns to labor (wages). Women should be recognized as farmers and given full support (including credit and information) by society to pursue agricultural enterprises irrespective of their land-ownership status. The terms and conditions of women’s engagement in the nonfarm sector should be relaxed and encouraged through improved access to resources, market, information, transportation, etc.','-','Trishita Banik, Sabita Mondal, Ushia Rai, Shrabantika Ghosh and Subhajit Chakraborty (2023). Women’s Involvement in off-farm activities for Household Food Security; An Empirical Study in Coochbehar District of West Bengal. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 15(6): 182-186.'),(6796,'159','Uncovering the Genetic Basis of Combining Ability in Capsicum annuum for Yield Attributing Traits','Rushiraj D. Rathva, N.A. Patel, M.M. Pandya, Rutvik J. Joshi and A.L. Patel','Uncovering-the-Genetic-Basis-of-Combining-Ability-in-Capsicum-annuum-for-Yield-Attributing-Traits-Rushiraj-D-Rathva-27.pdf','',1,'The current experiment was designed to determine the value of heterosis for fruit yield and its component traits in chilli. The crossing block comprised of 7 lines and 6 testers and their 42 hybrids developed using line × tester mating design which were assessed in randomized block design having three replications. The experiment was conducted at Main Vegetable Research Station, Anand Agricultural University, Anand during kharif-rabi 2020-21. In genetic combining ability analysis gca effects disclosed that among the female parents, ACGMS 2 and ACGMS 3 and among the males, ACS 13 – 03 and ACS 13 – 24 were found to be good general combiners for green fruit yield per plant. Hybrids ACCMS 1 × GAVC 112, CCA 4759 × ACS 08 – 09 and ACGMS 1 × ACS 13 – 03 were considered as best specific cross combinations. Pre-dominance of non-additive nature of genes governing the various characters. This experiment helps to identify the genetic effects of a trait which directly applicable for the development of better hybrids with desirable traits.','Combining ability, Capsaicinoids, Chilli, Gene action and Heterosis','The best per se performing five hybrids for green fruit yield per plant viz., ACCMS 1 × GAVC 112 (average × poor), ACGMS 3 × ACS 18 – 08 (good × average), ACGMS 3 × ACS 13 – 24 (good × good), ACGMS 2 × ACS 13 – 03 (good × good) and CCA 4759 × ACS 08 – 09 (poor × poor) also had significant positive sca effects except for ACGMS 3 × ACS 13 – 24 and high heterotic response over better parent and standard check hybrid. Hybrids with high yield not only demonstrated significant specific combining ability (SCA) effects and substantial heterosis but also exhibited impressive individual performance across most of the traits contributing to yield.','-','Rushiraj D. Rathva, N.A. Patel, M.M. Pandya, Rutvik J. Joshi and A.L. Patel (2023). Uncovering the Genetic Basis of Combining Ability in Capsicum annuum for Yield Attributing Traits. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 15(6): 187-191.'),(6797,'159','Estimation of Biochemical changes in wheat (Triticum spp.) due to Spot Blotch Diseases (Bipolaris sorokiniana Sacc.) by using different Treatments','Vishwa Vijay Raghuvanshi, Subhash Chandra, Shyam Narayan Patel, Suraj Kumar Patel, Shubham Patel, Abhishek Singh and Prabha Siddharth ','Estimation-of-biochemical-changes-in-wheat-(Triticum-spp.)-due-to-spot-blotch-diseases-(Bipolaris-sorokiniana-Sacc.)-by-using-different-treatments-Niyaz-Ahmad-28.pdf','',1,'Bipolaris sorokiniana (Sacc.) Shoemaker, a hemi biotrophic, phytopathogenic fungus, is the cause behind spot blotch disease. Warmer and more humid regions around the world are more prone to the spot blotch disease of wheat. Spot blotch (Bipolaris sorokiniana) symptoms start out as little, brown lesions that spread throughout the leaf and get larger as the disease progresses. Total phenolic contents and Phenylalanine ammonia-lyase that have been well-documented to play a significant role in disease resistance in a number of pathosystems, inhibiting the colonization of plant tissue. Different intervals of hours after inoculation (hai) have an impact on the total phenolic content (TPCs) and phenylalanine ammonia-lyase (PAL) in wheat leaves. Inoculation at various intervals (00 hai, 24 hai, 48 hai, and 72 hai) affects the amount of TPCs and PAL in wheat leaves. Maximum phenolic contents (134 mg/g, 156 mg/g, 221 mg/g, and 82 mg/g at 00 hai, 24 hai, 48 hai, and 72 hai, respectively) were recorded in T4 (seed treatment with Pseudomonas fluorescens @ 10g/kg of seed + 2 foliar spray garlic clove extract), while lowest phenolic contents were observed in T9 (untreated). The T4 treatment plot (seed treatment with Pseudomonas fluorescens @ 10g/kg of seed + 2 foliar spray garlic clove extract) had the highest phenylalanine ammonia-lyase concentrations (0.191, 0.214, 0.374, and 0.042 at 00 hai, 24 hai, 48 hai, and 72 hai, respectively), whereas the T9 control plot (untreated) had the lowest concentrations. ','Total phenolic contents, Phenylalanine ammonia-lyase, Spot blotch, Bipolaris sorokiniana and Hours after inoculation','1. In the present investigation, botanical and bio-agent treated plots recorded higher total phenolic contents (TPCs) and phenylalanine ammonia lyase (PAL) as compared to chemically treated and untreated plots. \r\n2. Different time intervals after inoculation have an impact on the total phenolic content (TPCs) and phenylalanine ammonia-lyase (PAL) in wheat leaves. \r\n3. Total phenolic Content (TPC) and Phenylalanine Ammonia-lyase (PAL) were measured at various time points after inoculation (hai). They considerably increased with passing time, from 24 to 48 hours after inoculation, and then decreased at 72 hours after inoculation.\r\n4. Maximum phenolic contents (134, 156, 221 and 82 at 00 hai, 24 hai, 48 hai and 72 hai respectively) was recorded in T4 (seed treatment with Pseudomonas fluorescens @ 10g/kg of seed + 2 foliar spray garlic clove extract) and lowest phenolic content was recorded in T9 (untreated). \r\n5. Highest phenylalanine ammonia-lyase (0.191, 0.214, 0.374 and 0.042 at 00 hai, 24 hai, 48 hai and 72 hai respectively) was noted in T4 (seed treatment with Pseudomonas fluorescens @ 10g/kg of seed + 2 foliar spray garlic clove extract) and lowest was found in T9 control plot (untreated). \r\n','-','Vishwa Vijay Raghuvanshi, Subhash Chandra, Shyam Narayan Patel, Suraj Kumar Patel, Shubham Patel, Abhishek Singh and Prabha Siddharth (2023). Estimation of biochemical changes in wheat (Triticum spp.) due to spot blotch diseases (Bipolaris sorokiniana Sacc.) by using different treatments. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 15(6): 192-198.'),(6798,'146','Unraveling the Role of Phenolic and Flavonoid Compounds in Chilli Resistance to Root Knot Nematodes','G. Santhosh, R. Umamaheshwari, K.S. Shivashankara, Naresh Ponnam, D.C. Lakshman Reddy, Tammireddy Anjali, D.K. Nayak and B.K. Dash','Unraveling-the-Role-of-Phenolic-and-Flavonoid-Compounds-in-Chilli-Resistance-to-Root-Knot-Nematodes-G-Santhosh-234.pdf','',1,'Root knot nematodes (RKN) pose a significant threat to chilli production, leading to huge yield and economic loss worldwide. The management of root-knot nematodes is still a serious concern due to their wide diversity of species and host range. Host plant resistance is the most viable and eco-friendly strategy. By considering all these aspect the present experiment was conducted to investigate the phenolic and flavonoid profiles of resistant chilli lines in response to RKN infection. Liquid chromatography–mass spectrometry analysis (LCMS) was performed to quantify and compare the levels of phenolic and flavonoid compounds in resistant breeding lines (ACRIL 70 and ACRIL 90) and susceptible varieties (Arka Mohini and Arka Suphal). The results revealed that the resistant lines exhibited higher production of phenolic and flavonoid compounds compared to the susceptible varieties. ACRIL 70 displayed the highest levels of salicylic acid, caffeic acid, gallic acid, protocatechuic acid, trans-cinnamic acid, and paracoumaric acid. Furthermore, epicatechin and catechin were found to be the predominant flavonoids in ACRIL 70. These findings suggested that phenolic and flavonoid-based biochemical compounds play a crucial role in conferring resistance to RKN in chilli lines. In nutshell, these resistance lines with traits associated with RKN resistance can be used for developing resistance chilli varieties by using breeding programmes. Understanding these defense mechanisms can contribute to the development of novel strategies for enhancing nematode resistance in chilli cultivation. ','Chilli, flavonoids, gallic acid, LCMS analysis, root knot nematode, phenolic compounds','In conclusion, our study on the phenolic and flavonoid content in resistant and susceptible chilli varieties exposed to root knot nematode infection provides important insights into the mechanisms of resistance against these destructive pests. The results clearly demonstrate that resistant RILs, particularly ACRIL 70, exhibited significantly higher production of phenolic and flavonoid compounds compared to the susceptible varieties. Salicylic acid emerged as a key player, with ACRIL 70 showing the highest concentrations of this compound in the inoculated roots. Other phenolic compounds, including caffeic acid, gallic acid, protocatechuic acid, trans-cinnamic acid, and paracoumaric acid, were also found to contribute to the resistance. Furthermore, our findings underscore the significance of flavonoids, such as epicatechin and catechin, in the defense response of the resistant RILs. Conversely, the susceptible varieties exhibited reduced phenolic and flavonoid production upon nematode infection. Overall, this research highlights the importance of phenolic and flavonoid-based biochemical activity in conferring resistance against root knot nematodes in chilli plants. The results provide a basis for further exploration of the genetic and molecular mechanisms involved and suggest potential strategies for developing nematode-resistant crop varieties through targeted enhancement of these compounds.','-','G. Santhosh, R. Umamaheshwari, K.S. Shivashankara, Naresh Ponnam, D.C. Lakshman Reddy, Tammireddy Anjali, D.K. Nayak and B.K. Dash (2022). Unraveling the Role of Phenolic and Flavonoid Compounds in Chilli Resistance to Root Knot Nematodes. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 14(4): 1315-1320.'),(6799,'159','Antimicrobial and Anti – inflammatory activities of Plectranthus amboinicus Leaf extract on Silkworm Pathogen Streptococcus pyogenes SA 1','S. Saranya, R. Raja Jeya Sekar, A. Harish and S.M. Vijila','Antimicrobial-and-Anti-–-inflammatory-activities-of-Plectranthus-amboinicus-Leaf-extract-on-Silkworm-Pathogen-Streptococcus-pyogenes-SA-1-A-Harish-29.pdf','',1,'To study the antimicrobial effect of herbal plant Plectranthus amboinicus on the silkworm pathogen Streptococcus pyogenes SA1. The herbal plant P. amboinicus - leaf was extracted by using known solvents such as acetone, methanol and distilled water and the antimicrobial effect of these extracts were studied against S. pyogenes SA 1 by agar well diffusion method. The phytochemical constituents of these extracts were also determined and GC-MS analysis was done. The phytochemical analysis of acetonic extract of P. amboinicus - leaf was revealed the presence of alkaloids, flavonoids, coumarins, steroids, glycosides, carbohydrates, tannins and saponins. The acetone and the methanol extracts of P. amboinicus - leaf showed minimum inhibitory activity 10 ± 0.03 mm and 3 ± 0.08 mm respectively in 0.5µl concentration and maximum inhibitory activity 18 ±0.15 mm, 10± 0.01 mm respectively against bacterial pathogen S. Pyogenes SA 1. The distilled water extract of P. amboinicus - leaf showed no inhibitory activity and maximum inhibitory activity 2 ±0.004 mm in 2.0 µl concentration on S. Pyogenes SA 1. The GC-MS analysis of the acetone extract of P.amboinicus – leaf was showed the presence of 18 compounds. The acetone and methanol extract of P. amboinicus – leaf showed remarkable antimicrobial activity against silkworm pathogen S. pyogenes SA 1 and the GC-MS analysis of the acetonic extract of P. amboinicus – leaf showed the presence of various antimicrobial compounds. In vitro and in vivo tests have to be carried out to confirm these findings.','Plectranthus amboinicus, chemical composition, GC-MS, antimicrobial activity','P. amboinicus is an important aromatic medicinal herb packed with many bioactive constituents and nutrients, which are important for maintaining good health. The biological properties are attributed to the occurrence of a wide range of bioactive compounds in P. amboinicus- leaf extracts which possess promising anti-microbial effects. The GC-MS studies of the acetonic extract of P. amboinicus – leaf was showed various compounds. Further study is required to find out the accurate compound responsible for the plants medicinal value. The major components of nonadiyne are used in biological activities.','-','S. Saranya, R. Raja Jeya Sekar, A. Harish and S.M. Vijila (2023). Antimicrobial and Anti – inflammatory activities of Plectranthus amboinicus Leaf extract on Silkworm Pathogen Streptococcus pyogenes SA 1. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 15(6): 199-205.'),(6800,'159','Functional properties and GC-MS Analysis of Phenolic Compounds in Developed Carbonated Whey Beverage with Pomegranate Peel Extract and Guava Leaves Extract','Fathimath Naurin K.A., Marx Nirmal R., Ayyavoo Preamnath Manoharan and Karthikeyan N.','Functional-properties-and-GC-MS-Analysis-of-Phenolic-Compounds-in-Developed-Carbonated-Whey-Beverage-with-Pomegranate-Peel-Extract-and-Guava-Leaves-Extract-Marx-Nirmal-R-30.pdf','',1,'In an attempt to develop a functional carbonated whey beverage, lactose hydrolyzed whey was mixed with sugar (10%), pomegranate peel extract (3%) and guava leaves extract (3%) and it was carbonated. Functional properties like ascorbic acid content, total phenolic content and antioxidant activity during storage at 4° showed that the developed carbonated whey beverage is antioxidant rich and the antioxidant activity was retaining during the storage period at 4°. The developed carbonated whey beverage showed an antioxidant activity (75.2%) DPPH radical scavenging activity, total phenolic content (125.12 mg GAE/100mL) and ascorbic acid content (13.05 mg/100g) in it. A gradual decrease in functional properties was observed throughout the storage period. GC-MS analysis of beverage added with extracts showed the presence of phenolic compounds like gallic acid, ferulic acid, ellagic acid, punicalagin and Peduncalagin I. Presence of these compounds indicates the potency of using pomegranate peel extract and guava leaves extract as a source of powerful antioxidants. The present study implements the proper utilization of by-products. ','Hydrolyzed whey, guava leaves extract, antioxidant activity, Total phenolic content, ascorbic acid, GC-MS. Pomegranate peel','The results obtained showed that the addition of pomegranate peel and guava leaves extract enhanced the ascorbic acid, total phenolic content and antioxidant activity of the developed whey beverage. GC-MS analysis of the developed beverage shows the presence of phenolic compounds which possesses the antioxidant, antimicrobial and anti-infammatory activity. It can be concluded that the developed beverage can be recommended as a functional carbonated beverage. Utilization of by-products as an antioxidant source are trending in research areas. ','-','Fathimath Naurin K.A., Marx Nirmal R., Ayyavoo Preamnath Manoharan and Karthikeyan N. (2023). Functional properties and GC-MS Analysis of Phenolic Compounds in Developed Carbonated Whey Beverage with Pomegranate Peel Extract and Guava Leaves Extract. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 15(6): 206-210.'),(6801,'159','Evaluation of In vitro Antiulcer Activity of Ethanolic Extract of Pleurotus florida','Sangeetha K., Senthilkumar G., Ambikapathy V. and Panneerselvam A.','Evaluation-of-In-Vitro-Antiulcer-Activity-of-Ethanolic-Extract-of-Pleurotus-florida-Sangeetha-K-31.pdf','',1,'Mushrooms have been playing an important role in several aspects of human activity. One of the most common culinary mushrooms is the oyster mushrooms. They are good sources of dietary fiber and other valuable nutrients. Pleurotus species is commonly known as giant mushroom. Edible ligninolytic mushrooms with high medicinal properties using the biotechnological and environmental field. It is an abundance of protein, minerals and elements of C and B complex. They are frequently as a therapeutic food having anticarcinogenic, anti cholestrolaemic and antimicrobial properties and also prophylactic properties. The present study investigates the antiulcer properties of edible mushroom Pleurotus florida, commercially cultivated in Trichy, Tamilnadu. The acid-neutralizing capacity (ANC) method and the H+/K+ -ATPase inhibitory activity methods were used to test the antiulcer activity of an ethanol-based extract of grown, dried, and powdered mushrooms. Results indicated that the ethanolic extract, with respect to H+/K+ - ATPase inhibitory action, extract considerably reduced ANC to 10.7 at a concentration of 1500 mg compared to standard, and at a concentration of 200 g compared to 60.8% with standard Omeprazole.','Mushroom, Pleurotus florida, antiulcer activity, acid -neutralizing capacity, H+/K+ -ATPase inhibitory action, ethanol extract','In accordance to the outcomes of the current investigation, P. florida ethanolic extract was shown to have the most potential antiulcer agent. Analysing findings, the investigators led to the premise that Pleurotus florida\'s ethanolic extract may be used as a source of antiulcer medications. This study showed that mushrooms can be used for both food and medicine (Tundis, et al., 2008; Vyawahare et al., 2009; Zayachkivsk et al., 2005) and that they may be a good natural antiulcer alternative to currently available synthetic antiulcer medications in the food and pharmaceutical industries (Yalinkilic et al., 1994). Nevertheless, a thorough investigation of the bioactive components from Pleurotus florida and their mode of action, which is accountable for their antiulcer efficacy, needs to be done in the future.','-','Sangeetha K., Senthilkumar G., Ambikapathy V. and Panneerselvam A. (2023). Evaluation of In vitro Antiulcer Activity of Ethanolic Extract of Pleurotus florida. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 15(6): 211-214.'),(6802,'159','Genetic variability Analysis of Yield and its Attributes of Bread Wheat (Triticum aestivum L.) over the Environment','Ravikant Soni, Animesh Chatterjee, Monika Singh and Vinod Kumar','Genetic-variability-Analysis-of-Yield-and-its-Attributes-of-Bread-Wheat-(Triticum-aestivum-L.)-over-the-Environment-Ravikant-Soni-32.pdf','',1,'A germplasm comprising 50 bread wheat (Triticum aestivum L.) cultivars was carried out to determine the genetic variability for yield and its attributes. The result showed that the analysis of variance revealed highly significant differences among the genotypes studied, emphasize the presence of genetic variation. A higher estimate of the phenotypic and genotypic coefficient of variation for the flag leaf area followed by flag leaf width, peduncle length, and days to maturity revealed the presence of exploitable genetic variation that can be improved through direct selection. Days to maturity, spike length, plant height, peduncle length, peniculated leaf distance, test weight, flag leaf length, number of grains/spike, flag leaf width, biological yield, grain yield/plot, and number of tillers/plant are examples of traits that have high heritability combined with high genetic advance over a percentage of mean reporting selection. Also, it provides information on genetic advancement and directional selection, which can be utilize indices to enhance selection efficiency. The experimental study find out the specific variable traits will be helpful for selection of desired traits under breeding for crop improvement programme. ','Genotype, genetic variability, environment, heritability, and genetic advance','The above experimentation concludes that the higher estimate of phenotypic and genotypic coefficient of variation for flag leaf area followed by flag leaf width, peduncle length and days to maturity, revealed the presence of exploitable genetic variance which can be improved through direct selection. Such observed traits viz., days to maturity, spike length, plant height, peduncle length, peniculated leaf distance, test weight, flag leaf length, number of grains/spike, flag leaf width, biological yield, grain yield/plot and number of tillers/plant, reported high heritability coupled with high genetic advance over percentage of mean reporting selection will be rewarding and effective as traits were likely to be governed by additive genes. It also provides information on the correlated response to directional selection to predict genetic advancements and so on, which can be used as selection indices for the functioning of a more efficient selection program. Also, the above study was very useful for breeders in order to increase yield per se performance.','-','Ravikant Soni, Animesh Chatterjee, Monika Singh and Vinod Kumar (2023). Genetic variability Analysis of Yield and its Attributes of Bread Wheat (Triticum aestivum L.) over the Environment. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 15(6): 215-219.'),(6803,'159','Field efficacy of Selected Insecticides against Pod Borer, Helicoverpa armigera (H.) in Chick Pea (Cicer arietinum Linnaeus)','Chunchu Ravicharan and Anoorag R. Tayde','Field-efficacy-of-Selected-Insecticides-against-Pod-Borer,-Helicoverpa-armigera-(H.)-in-Chick-Pea-(Cicer-arietinum-Linnaeus)-Chunchu-Ravicharan-33.pdf','',1,'A field investigation was carried out in rabi season of 2022-2023 at Central Research Farm (CRF), Sam Higginbottom University of Agriculture, Technology and Sciences, Prayagraj, Uttar Pradesh, India. The experiment was laid in Randomised Block Design with seven treatments each replicated thrice viz., Indoxacarb 14.5% SC, Chlorantraniliprole 18.5% SC, Lamda cyhalothrin 5% EC, Bacillus thuringiensis 1×108 CFU, Emamectin benzoate 5% SG, Spinosad 45% SC, Metarhizium anisopliae 1×108 CFU and control plot. The results on Helicoverpa armigera larvae population after the first and second sprays proved that all of the treatments insecticides and biopesticides were significantly superior to the control. Among all treatments, Indoxacarb 14.5% SC (1.20 & 0.86) recorded lowest larval population of Helicoverpa armigera after both sprays followed by Chlorantraniliprole 18.5% SC (1.51 & 1.08), Emamectin benzoate 5% SG (1.68 & 1.26), Spinosad 45% SC (1.91 & 1.55), Lamda cyhalothrin (2.22 & 1.80), Bacillus thuringiensis 1×108 CFU (2.17 & 2.47), Metarhizium anisopliae 1×108 CFU (2.24 & 2.62) was the least effective among all treatments respectively. While, the highest yield 22.76 q/ha was obtained from the treatment Indoxacarb 14.5% SC as well as C: B ratio (1:4.04) followed by Chlorantraniliprole 18.5% SC (20.55 and 1:3.52), Emamectin benzoate 5% SG (19.68 and 1:3.45), Spinosad 45% SC (18.68 and 1:3.18), Lamda cyhalothrin 5% EC (16.3 and 1:2.94), Bacillus thuringiensis 1×108 CFU (14.4 and 1:2.58) and Metarhizium anisopliae 1×108 CFU (12.5 and 1:2.54).','Bacillus thuringiensis 1×108 CFU, Chickpea, Insecticides, Helicoverpa armigera, Metarhizium anisopliae 1×108 CFU','From the critical analysis of the present findings, it can be concluded that, among all the treatments Indoxacarb 14.5%SC is more effective in controlling larval population of Helicoverpa armigera followed by chlorantraniliprole 18.5% SC, Emamectin benzoate 5% SG, Spinosad 45%SC, Lamda cyhalothrin 5%EC, Bacillus thuringiensis 1×108 CFU, and Metarhizium anisopliae 1×108 CFU. Among the treatments studied, Indoxacarb 14.5% SC gave the highest cost benefit ratio (1:4.04) and marketing yield (22.7q/ha) followed by chlorantraniliprole 18.5%SC (1: 3.52 and 20.55q/ha), Emamectin benzoate (1:3.45 and 19.68q/ha), Spinosad 45%SC(1:3.18 and 18.68q/ha), Lamda cyhalothrin 5% EC (1:2.94 and 16.3q/ha), Bacillus thuringiensis 1×108 CFU (1:2.58 and 14.4q/ha) and Metarhizium anisopliae 1×108 CFU (1:2.54 and 12.5q/ha) respectively as such more trails are required in future to validate the findings','-','Chunchu Ravicharan and Anoorag R. Tayde (2023). Field efficacy of Selected Insecticides against Pod Borer, Helicoverpa armigera (H.) in Chick Pea (Cicer arietinum Linnaeus). Biological Forum – An International Journal, 15(6): 220-223.'),(6804,'159','Sustainable Struggles: Unraveling the Limitations Encountered by Organic Paddy Farmers in Andhra Pradesh','Mallela Bandhavya, V. Sailaja, P. Ganesh Kumar, S. Hemalatha and B. Ramana Murthy','Sustainable-Struggles-Unraveling-the-Limitations-Encountered-by-Organic-Paddy-Farmers-in-Andhra-Pradesh-Mallela-Bandhavya-34.pdf','',1,'An investigation was conducted in Andhra Pradesh in the year 2022-23 to identify the key constraints faced by certified organic paddy farmers. Data was collected from 200 farmers using structured interviews and analyzed using the Garrett ranking method. The findings revealed significant technical challenges, including insufficient entrepreneurial skills, limited technical guidance, a scarcity of university-developed technologies, and the unavailability of ready-to-use organic inputs. Policy constraints included insufficient premium prices, high labour costs and availability issues, and inadequate government support. Social constraints involved a lack of unity among farmers, low credibility of extension workers, and limited organic-related Farmer Producer Organizations. Economic constraints encompassed high risks and uncertainty of returns and a lack of institutional credit facilities. Marketing constraints included inadequate networks, storage facilities, and storage pest damage. The study concludes with meaningful recommendations provided by certified organic farmers to promote the adoption of organic farming practices in the study area. Addressing these constraints is crucial for enhancing the sustainability of the organic paddy farming sector in Andhra Pradesh, thereby providing a potential solution to the disadvantages associated with chemical-intensive paddy cultivation.','Andhra Pradesh, Constraints, Impediments, Organic farming, Paddy','The findings of this study will contribute to a better understanding of the specific challenges faced by organic paddy farmers in Andhra Pradesh. Moreover, it will provide valuable insights for policymakers, agricultural organizations, and stakeholders to develop targeted interventions and support mechanisms that address these constraints. Ultimately, the aim is to create an enabling environment for organic paddy farming, enhance farmers\' livelihoods, and promote sustainable agricultural practices in Andhra Pradesh.','-','Mallela Bandhavya, V. Sailaja, P. Ganesh Kumar, S. Hemalatha and B. Ramana Murthy (2023). Sustainable Struggles: Unraveling the Limitations Encountered by Organic Paddy Farmers in Andhra Pradesh. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 15(6): 224-230.'),(6805,'159','Characterization of Solanum chilense Accessions for Resistance to Tomato Spotted Wilt Virus (TSWV) Disease',' Apoorva K.A., Mulla S.W., Fakrudin, B., Jagadeesha R.C., Shankarappa K.S. and Javadagi, R.S.','Characterization-of-Solanum-chilense-Accessions-for-Resistance-to-Tomato-Spotted-Wilt-Virus-(TSWV)-Disease-Apoorva-K.A-35.pdf','',1,'Domesticated tomato (Solanum lycopersicum L.) is known to be susceptible to many viral diseases. However, resistance subsists in wild tomato species. The wild relative of tomato, Solanum chilense is reported be source of resistant to major diseases of tomato including important viral disease caused by tomato spotted wilt virus (TSWV) infection. In the present study, 17 accessions of S. chilense were evaluated for resistance against TSWV disease in field and contained conditions. The contained condition screening involved mechanical inoculation of the TSWV infected leaf sap with Phosphate buffer on leaves of the S. chilense plants. The magnitude of variation of TSWV disease incidence ranged from 40.00 with a grand mean disease incidence of 14.12 in field condition to 50.00 with a grand mean of 7.06 in contained condition across the accessions. Among 17 accessions of S. chilense screened, 11 accessions did not exhibit any symptoms of TSWV disease and were immune in both field and contained conditions, which indicates these accessions may be a potential source of resistance to incorporate in tomato breeding programs for resistance against TSWV disease and can be used in developing TSWV disease resistant lines of tomato.','TSWV, Tospovirus, Wild tomato, Solanum chilense, Viral diseases, Tomato','Among 17 accessions of S. chilense, about 11 accessions named WT-1, WT-2, WT-3, WT-4, WT-8, WT-12, WT-13, WT-14, WT-15, WT-16 and WT-17 did not exhibit any symptoms of TSWV disease and were immune in both field and contained conditions. Theoretical research on the advantages of different breeding strategies is supported by empirical genetic models of trait genetic architecture derived from mapping studies. ','-','Apoorva K.A., Mulla S.W., Fakrudin, B., Jagadeesha R.C., Shankarappa K.S. and Javadagi, R.S. (2023). Characterization of Solanum chilense Accessions for Resistance to Tomato Spotted Wilt Virus (TSWV) Disease. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 15(6): 231-235.'),(6806,'159','Effect of Gamma Radiation and Oryzalin Treatment on the Survival and Growth of Balsam (Impatiens balsamina)','Sumit Pal, Anil K. Singh and Anjana Sisodia','Effect of Gamma Radiation and Oryzalin Treatment on the Survival and Growth of Balsam _Impatiens balsamina-36-Sumit Pal.pdf','',1,'The present study was conducted at Horticulture Research Farm, Banaras Hindu University, Varanasi with a view to evaluate the effect of doses of gamma radiation (35 kR and 40 kR from 60Co source) and oryzalin (50 µmol, 100 µmol and 150 µmol) on the survival and growth of balsam (Impatiens balsamina). The experiment was conducted on 29 selected genotypes of balsam. Experiment was laid out in a Randomized Block Design with three replications. It was observed that survival of BDR-2 and BSV-11 was significantly increased over untreated control among all other genotypes. The maximum survival percentage of genotypes was observed with genotypes treated with low dose of gamma i.e. 35 kR (50.92 and 55.75 during M1 and M2 generation) while low survival was observed with high dose of oryzalin i.e. 150 µmol (41.86 and 53.01 during M1 and M2 generation). Five parameters were taken into the consideration to estimate the overall growth of balsam i.e. number of primary branches per plant, fresh weight of leaves (g), number of leaves per plant, diameter of stem (mm) and height of plant (cm). It was noted that genotypes viz., BDR-1, BDV-1, BS-39, BS-14, BS-23, BSW-7 etc. showed positive response to the treatments in terms of number of primary branches per plant during both consecutive years of experiment. Similarly, BSW-7 along with few other also showed positive correlation with the treatments in terms of plant height (cm) and fresh weight of leaves (g). The genotype BDR-4 had also represented the results in equal manner in terms of stem diameter (mm). The maximum growth during M1 and M2 generation observed with treatment of 50 µmol (13.01 and 13.60 in terms of number of primary branches), 50 µmol and 40kR (0.54 and 0.96 in terms of fresh weight (g) of leaf), 35kR and 50 µmol (503.42 and 476.72 in terms of number of leaves), 50 µmol (23.17 and 23.32 in terms of diameter (mm) of stem), 50 µmol and 35kR (74.18 and 97.22 in terms of height (cm) of plant). Moreover, it was observed that all the genotypes showed positive response to the treatments except in terms of survival where the decreasing trend was observed with increasing doses of the treatments.','Gamma Radiation, oryzalin treatment, Impatiens balsamina. ','-','-','Sumit Pal, Anil K. Singh and Anjana Sisodia (2023). Effect of Gamma Radiation and Oryzalin Treatment on the Survival and Growth of Balsam (Impatiens balsamina). Biological Forum – An International Journal, 15(6): 236-242.'),(6807,'159','Ethnogynaecological Investigation of Medicinal Plants used in Natham Taluk, Dindigul, Tamil Nadu, India','Shrinitha T.M. and Aruna R.','Ethnogynaecological-Investigation-of-Medicinal-Plants-used-in-Natham-Taluk,-Dindigul,-Tamil-Nadu,-India-Shrinitha-TM-37.pdf','',1,'Gynaecological ailments in general have not been perceived as a major health concern due to the negligence of women’s healthcare needs. The cultural stigma around the sexual and reproductive health of women was one of the many challenges faced during this study. The present investigation documented the ethnomedicinal plants used to treat the gynaecological ailments by the native people of Natham Taluk in Dindigul District. An intensive ethnobotanical survey resulted in documentation of 92 species spread across 48 families used to treat various gynaecological ailments grouped into 13 categories. Fabaceae (7%), Euphorbiaceae (7%), Apiaceae (5%) were the most dominant families. Herbs (59%) were the most common plant form used for ethnomedicine formulations. Leaves (28%) were mostly used for plant drug preparation. The use of paste (49%) and oral (94%) administration of the drugs prepared from plants were largely used in the study area. Quantitative indices like use value (UV), and informant consensus factor (ICF) were calculated. Saraca asoca (Roxb.) Wilde (UV= 2.74), Azadirachta indica A. Juss., (UV=2.07), Hybanthus enneaspermus (L.) F. Muell. (UV= 2.03) were the most important species as recorded. The result indicated that there is proper sharing of this traditional knowledge amongst people in the study area. This documentation of the important species treating gynaecological ailments can be analysed phytochemically for future studies.','Ethno gynaecology, Ethnomedicine, Dindigul, Infertility, Menstrual disorders','The present study reported a total of 93 medicinal plant species belonging to 48 families that were used to treat various gynaecological ailments belonging to 13 ailment categories through 92 ethno-gynaecological remedies. Fabaceae, Euphorbiaceae, Apiaceae were the most dominant families. Herbs were the most common plant form used; leaves were mostly used for plant drug preparation. The use of paste and oral administration of the drugs prepared from plants were largely used in the study area. Quantitative indices like use value (UV) and informant consensus factor (ICF) were calculated. Saraca asoca (Roxb.) Wilde, Azadirachta indica A. Juss., (LC) Hybanthus enneaspermus (L.) F. Muell. were the most important species as indicated by the UV values. The ICF values of certain species were higher which indicates that there is proper sharing of traditional knowledge of most common plants amongst people in the study area. Hence it is necessary to conserve this depleting indigenous knowledge as it could help us in identifying the pharmacological potential of medicinal plants.','-',' Shrinitha T.M. and Aruna R. (2023). Ethnogynaecological Investigation of Medicinal Plants used in Natham Taluk, Dindigul, Tamil Nadu, India. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 15(6): 243-254.'),(6808,'159','Effect of Long-term Manuring and Fertilization on Passive pools of Carbon under Sorghum Wheat Sequence Cropping in Vertisols','P.H. Rathod, S.M. Bhoyar, S.D. Jadhao, P.W. Deshmukh, G.S. Lahariya and A.B. Aage','Effect-of-Long-term-Manuring-and-Fertilization-on-Passive-pools-of-Carbon-under-Sorghum-Wheat-Sequence-Cropping-in-Vertisols-PH-Rathod-38.pdf','',4,'The field study, \"Appraisal of carbon dynamics and its sequestration under long-term sorghum-wheat cropping sequence in Vertisols\", was conducted concurrently with the 32nd and 33rd cycles of the ongoing long-term fertilizer experiment (LTFE) on the sorghum-wheat sequence in 2019–20 and 2020–21 at the Dr. Panjabrao Deshmukh Krishi Vidyapeeth, Akola. With twelve treatments spread across four replications, the experiment was carried out using a randomized block design. The results of the current experiment show that the application of solitary FYM observed the highest passive pools of carbon (Humic carbon, Fulvic carbon, and Humin carbon), followed by 100% NPK+ FYM @ 5 t ha-1 and 75% NPK+ 25% N through FYM. With the amount of NPK fertilizer increased from 50% to 150%, the passive pools of carbon increased, showing the significance of their primary nutrients in accumulation and becoming, which ultimately led to higher root growth and overall plant development. Thus, it can be said that the application of FYM, either alone or in conjunction with NPK, had a positive impact on the stability of carbon and on the fertility, overall health, and crop productivity of the soil.','Humic, Fulvic, Humin carbon, Yield, humification and Vertisols','From the present investigation, it can be concluded that, long term use of FYM alone or along with inorganic fertilizers enhanced the passive pools of carbon viz., humic acid, fulvic acid, and humin. Therefore, the balanced application of NPK fertilizers with FYM was the best choice for crop production of the wheat crop. Research on spectral characteristics, such as E4/E6 ratios, showed that humic acid has narrower ratios than fulvic acid.','-','P.H. Rathod, S.M. Bhoyar, S.D. Jadhao, P.W. Deshmukh, G.S. Lahariya and A.B. Aage (2023). Effect of Long-term Manuring and Fertilization on Passive pools of Carbon under Sorghum Wheat Sequence Cropping in Vertisols. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 15(6): 255-261.'),(6809,'157','Effect of Long-term Manuring and Fertilization on Passive pools of Carbon under Sorghum Wheat Sequence Cropping in Vertisols','P.H. Rathod, S.M. Bhoyar, S.D. Jadhao, P.W. Deshmukh, G.S. Lahariya and A.B. Aage','Effect-of-Long-term-Manuring-and-Fertilization-on-Passive-pools-of-Carbon-under-Sorghum-Wheat-Sequence-Cropping-in-Vertisols-PH-Rathod-177.pdf','',1,'The field study, \"Appraisal of carbon dynamics and its sequestration under long-term sorghum-wheat cropping sequence in Vertisols\", was conducted concurrently with the 32nd and 33rd cycles of the ongoing long-term fertilizer experiment (LTFE) on the sorghum-wheat sequence in 2019–20 and 2020–21 at the Dr. Panjabrao Deshmukh Krishi Vidyapeeth, Akola. With twelve treatments spread across four replications, the experiment was carried out using a randomized block design. The results of the current experiment show that the application of solitary FYM observed the highest passive pools of carbon (Humic carbon, Fulvic carbon, and Humin carbon), followed by 100% NPK+ FYM @ 5 t ha-1 and 75% NPK+ 25% N through FYM. With the amount of NPK fertilizer increased from 50% to 150%, the passive pools of carbon increased, showing the significance of their primary nutrients in accumulation and becoming, which ultimately led to higher root growth and overall plant development. Thus, it can be said that the application of FYM, either alone or in conjunction with NPK, had a positive impact on the stability of carbon and on the fertility, overall health, and crop productivity of the soil.','Humic, Fulvic, Humin carbon, Yield, humification and Vertisols','From the present investigation, it can be concluded that, long term use of FYM alone or along with inorganic fertilizers enhanced the passive pools of carbon viz., humic acid, fulvic acid, and humin. Therefore, the balanced application of NPK fertilizers with FYM was the best choice for crop production of the wheat crop. Research on spectral characteristics, such as E4/E6 ratios, showed that humic acid has narrower ratios than fulvic acid.','-','P.H. Rathod, S.M. Bhoyar, S.D. Jadhao, P.W. Deshmukh, G.S. Lahariya and A.B. Aage (2023). Effect of Long-term Manuring and Fertilization on Passive pools of Carbon under Sorghum Wheat Sequence Cropping in Vertisols. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 15(5): 1194-1200.'),(6810,'159','Screening of Elite Maize (Zea mays L.) inbred Lines Grown under Rainfed Conditions of Eastern Uttar Pradesh for Yield, Oil and Protein content','Aditya Mohan Maharishi, Shailesh Marker, Ruchi Bishnoi and Surbhi Gour','Screening-of-Elite-Maize-(Zea-mays-L.)-inbred-Lines-Grown-under-Rainfed-Conditions-of-Eastern-Uttar-Pradesh-for-Yield,-Oil-and-Protein-content-Aditya-Mohan-Maharishi-38.pdf','',1,'Rainfed maize rarely has access to enough moisture since the irregular or uneven distribution of monsoon rainfall frequently results in sporadic drought, heat, or excessive moisture/waterlogging at various crop growth stages (s). This is the main cause of the rainfed maize\'s relatively poor production. Therefore, to fill the research gap, the experiment was conducted on twenty-one CIMMYT-maize inbred lines, that were grown in rainfed conditions of eastern Uttar Pradesh during kharif 2021 for assessment of genetic variability, correlation, and path analysis for fifteen quantitative variables and two biochemical traits, i.e., oil and protein content. The inbred lines were examined under Randomized Block Design with three replications at Field Experimentation Center of Sam Higginbottom University of Agriculture, Technology and Sciences, Prayagraj. The observations and analysis of data indicated that with the exception of the number of anthesis-silking intervals, analysis of variance for all characters showed significant differences at 1% level. Genotype CML-579 depicted highest grain yield in the rainfed environment. The higher value of PCV with large difference than GCV for characters viz., like grain yield per plant, cob weight, shank weight and anthesis-silking interval, indicated that environmental factors significantly influenced the expression of these traits. High genetic advance coupled with high heritability was observed for grain yield per plant, cob weight, plant height and ear height indicating the presence of large proportion of additive genetic action deciding these traits. Correlation and path coefficient studies suggested that selection based on characters like number of kernels per row, cob girth and cob weight had positive correlation and direct effects with grain yield per plant. Hence, it can be concluded that for the improvement of CIMMYT inbred lines of maize in rainfed environment of eastern U.P., the effective selection must be attempted for the above traits.','Variability parameters, Association analysis and Maize (Zea mays L.)','It is concluded that based on mean performance for grain yield and taken into characters on account, the line CML-579 followed by CML-580 and CML-563 were found best for growing under rainfed conditions of Eastern Uttar Pradesh. CML-580 showed highest oil content and HQPM-5 had highest protein content. Variance due to oil content and protein content were significant, however the effective selection can be done for oil content. Selection based on characters like cob weight, number of kernels per row, ear height, shank weight, number of kernel rows per cob, number of kernels per cob, cob girth and cob length may bring out desired improvement towards development of high yielding maize variety suitable for growing under abiotic stress.','-','Aditya Mohan Maharishi, Shailesh Marker, Ruchi Bishnoi and Surbhi Gour (2023). Screening of Elite Maize (Zea mays L.) inbred Lines Grown under Rainfed Conditions of Eastern Uttar Pradesh for Yield, Oil and Protein content. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 15(6): 255-265.'),(6811,'159','Morphological Investigations on Putative indices of different Cotton Genotypes Regarding Leaf Reddening under different Irrigation Environments','A. Blesseena, R.S. Wagh and D.A. Raut','Morphological-Investigations-on-Putative-indices-of-different-Cotton-Genotypes-Regarding-Leaf-Reddening-under-different-Irrigation-Environments-A-Blesseena-39.pdf','',1,'A research trail was planned to find out the abiotic cause of major disorder in cotton i.e., leaf reddening, during Kharif 2020, at Cotton Improvement Project, Mahatma Phule Krishi Vidyapeeth, Rahuri, Ahmednagar (dist.), Maharashtra, India. The main objective of the trail was to study morphological parameters of cotton plants in three different genotypes (Phule Shwetambari, Phule Mahi and Rashi 659) under three different irrigation environments (June, July and August) and sown during three different intervals of time (rainfed environment, irrigated environment and waterlogged environment). Standardize the different irrigation environments were the great challenges in the present research. Maximum leaf area plant-1 at 50 % flowering, plant height and number of branches plant-1 were observed in normal sowing time i.e., June, under irrigated environment and in Bt hybrid i.e., Rashi 659 but, more number of leaves plant-1 at 50 % flowering were observed in Phule Shwetambari genotype. Leaf area affected plant-1, plants affected with reddening plot-1 and per cent incidence of leaf reddening was more in extra late sowing time i.e., August, under waterlogged environment and in Bt hybrid i.e., Rashi 659 while, more number of affected leaves plant-1 were observed in Phule Mahi genotype of cotton. ','Cotton, Leaf reddening, Morphology, Sowing time, Genotype and Environment','The study of morphological factors showed that an irrigation system produced better outcomes with the least amount of leaf reddening. Compared to the other two habitats, the waterlogged environment had a more noticeable influence on the reddening of cotton leaves. With the delay in sowing time in the cotton crop, the proportion of plants with reddening, the number of affected leaves per plant and the area of affected leaves per plant all increased. At practically all moisture circumstances, cotton sown at the normal sowing time experienced less leaf reddening than cotton sown at the delayed sowing time. Bt hybrid Rashi 659 recorded more percent incidence of leaf reddening and leaf area affected plant-1 compared to the other two genotypes studied.','-','A. Blesseena, R.S. Wagh and D.A. Raut (2023). Morphological Investigations on Putative indices of different Cotton Genotypes Regarding Leaf Reddening under different Irrigation Environments. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 15(6): 266-274.'),(6812,'157','Study the Feed Cost and Feed Conversion Ratio of Broiler Production in Kannauj District of Uttar Pradesh, India','Govind, Ramjee Gupta, Deepak Kumar, Anita Kumari Meena and Navjot Kour','Study-the-Feed-Cost-and-Feed-Conversion-Ratio-of-Broiler-Production-in-Kannauj-District-of-Uttar-Pradesh,-India-Deepak-Kumar-178.pdf','',1,'Broiler feed cost play vital role in estimating to the variable cost of the broiler production. The feed cost is the major item of variable cost which is required for feeding the broiler birds. Most serious problems of broiler unit owner’s were feed cost reported by them in study area of Kannauj district in all season of the year. The feed cost was estimated higher in small unit then medium and large unit of broiler 34.05, 33.80 and 33.50 Rs. per kg of feed, respectively. Generally, feed cost observed approximately 70 percent. Broiler bird intake feed more in winter season as compare to rainy and summer seasons. The broilers were fed by the broiler starter mash up to age of 20 to 21 days followed by broiler finisher in the later stage. The constituents of the feeds were maize grains, polished rice, mineral mixture, fish meal, vitamins etc. Feed conversion ratio is an index of efficiency expressed in terms of kilograms of feed consumed per kilograms of live weight of the broiler. It was seen that the feed conversion ratio at overall level was 1.58, 1.54 and 1.48 in summer, rainy and winter season, respectively. It was seen that feed conversion ratio decline in all size broiler farms during summer, rainy and winter season, respectively. This indicates that the feed conversion efficiency was greater in winter season and therefore winter season is best for broiler production.','Feed cost, Feed conversion ratio, Feed efficiency, Broiler, Starter ration and Finisher ration','The cost of feed per broiler declined with an increase in the size of broiler units. Winter season was the best for production of broilers to a large extent in terms of live weight of broiler, feed conversion ratio. It was seen that feed conversion ratio decline during summer, rainy and winter season respectively in all size broiler farms. This indicates that the feed conversion efficiency was greater in winter season and therefore winter season is best for broiler production.','-','Govind, Ramjee Gupta, Deepak Kumar, Anita Kumari Meena and Navjot Kour (2023). Study the Feed Cost and Feed Conversion Ratio of Broiler Production in Kannauj District of Uttar Pradesh, India. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 15(5): 1201-1204.'),(6813,'157','Evaluation of Novel Insecticides against Mustard Aphid Lipaphis erysimi Kalt','Deepak Singh Pal, D.R. Singh, D.K. Singh, Arun Kumar and Shinde Pravin Gautam','Evaluation-of-Novel-Insecticides-against-Mustard-Aphid-Lipaphis-erysimi-Kalt-Deepak-Kumar-179.pdf','',1,'The present investigation entitled ‘‘Evaluation of novel insecticides against mustard aphid Lipaphis erysimi Kalt.’’ at Student Instructional Farm (SIF), C.S.A University of Agri. & Tech. Kanpur during Rabi season of 2019-2020 & 2020-2021. The data analysis for management of mustard aphid Lipaphis erysimi Kalt. revealed a similar trend in both the years. The treatment Dimethoate 30 EC(1ml/lt) was proved significantly superior over all treatments with highest control over mustard aphid Lipaphis erysimi Kalt population in both the years. The treatment Beauveria bassiana (2g/lt) was found poorest with minimum control of mustard aphid Lipaphis erysimi Kalt population in terms of efficacy in both the years. The trend of efficacy of different treatments against mustard aphid Lipaphis erysimi Kalt were in descending order as following Dimethoate 30 EC(1ml/lt) > Imidacloprid 17.8 SL (0.25 ml/lt) > Thiamethoxam 25 WG (0.20g/lt) > Acetamiprid 20 SP (0.1g/lt) > Clothianidine 50 WDG (0.12g/lt) >Verticillium lecanii (2g/lt) > Azadirachtin 3000 ppm (5ml/lt) >Beauveria bassiana (2g/lt). ','Mustard aphid, efficacy, insecticides, management, Dimethoate 30 EC, Imidacloprid 17.8 SL','The results with pooled data analysis for management of mustard aphid Lipaphis erysimi Kalt. revealed a similar trend in whole study period for both the years i.e. 2019-2020 & 2020-2021 (Table 5 & 6). Dimethoate 30 EC(1ml/lt) was proved significantly superior over all treatments with highest manage of mustard aphid Lipaphis erysimi Kalt population in both the years. Beauveria bassiana (2g/lt) was found poorest with minimum control of mustard aphid Lipaphis erysimi Kalt population in terms of efficacy in both the years. The trend of efficacy of different treatments against mustard aphid Lipaphis erysimi Kalt were in descending order as following Dimethoate 30 EC(1ml/lt) > Imidacloprid 17.8 SL (0.25 ml/lt) > Thiamethoxam 25 WG (0.20g/lt) > Acetamiprid 20 SP (0.1g/lt) > Clothianidine 50 WDG (0.12g/lt) >Verticillium lecanii (2g/lt) > Azadirachtin 3000 ppm (5ml/lt) >Beauveria bassiana (2g/lt). ','-','Deepak Singh Pal, D.R. Singh, D.K. Singh, Arun Kumar and Shinde Pravin Gautam (2023). Evaluation of Novel Insecticides against Mustard Aphid Lipaphis erysimi Kalt. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 15(5): 1205-1210.'),(6814,'159','Toxicity properties of Lemongrass Essential Oil against Brinjal Hadda Beetle, Henosepilachna vigintioctapunctata (Fabricius)','Manikandan R. and Ayyasamy R.','Toxicity-properties-of-Lemongrass-Essential-Oil-against-Brinjal-Hadda-Beetle,--Henosepilachna-vigintioctapunctata-(Fabricius)-Manikandan-R-40.pdf','',1,'A laboratory experiment was conducted out at the toxicology and seaweed laboratory of Department of Entomology, Annamalai University, Chidambaram during the academic year 2021-2022 to study the impacts of lemongrass essential oil against brinjal hadda beetle. Early infestation of the brinjal crop by the hadda beetle and its grub stages results in economic losses. Due to its polyphagous nature, it also treats other medicinal and solanaceous crops. Lemongrass essential oil was widely exploited for urban pest management in various formulations. In our current study, five different concentrations of lemongrass essential oil were tested with standard checks of neem oil 2 per cent, cypermethrin 25EC and distilled water. The results showed that the values of LC50 and mortality per cent in laboratory circumstances, the dry film residue bioassay showed substantially higher values than the leaf dip bioassay and fumigant bioassay. The bioassays of lemongrass essential oil @ 5 per cent were much effective to brinjal hadda beetle and third instar grub than neem oil @ 2 per cent and also it provided the same or more promising results of cypermethrin 25EC @ 0.04%. Therefore, it might be a promising management approach at the semi-field and field levels as well as a green pesticide for pest management.','Pest management, Fumigation method, Leaf dip method, Dry film method, Neem oil, Laboratory Bioassay','Lemongrass essential oil also has antifeedant and repelling qualities, in addition to exhibiting insecticidal qualities against hadda beetle grubs and adults. It had a number of secondary metabolites that affected these characteristics. According to the statistical analysis, lemongrass essential oil at 5 @ is more effective as a repellent and a protector of the leaf area. The insecticidal properties of 5 per cent lemongrass essential oil and cypermethrin 25EC were identical in action but took more time than chemical. ','-','Manikandan R. and Ayyasamy R. (2023). Toxicity properties of Lemongrass Essential Oil Against Brinjal Hadda Beetle, Henosepilachna vigintioctapunctata (Fabricius). Biological Forum – An International Journal, 15(6): 275-280.'),(6815,'159','Estimation of Heritability (Narrow sense) and Genetic Advance for Yield and Quality Traits in Bottle Gourd [Lagenaria siceraria (Mol.) Standl.]','Mritunjay Rai, C. N. Ram, Ashish Kumar Singh, Aastik Jha and Anil Kumar','Estimation-of-Heritability-(Narrow-sense)-and-Genetic-Advance-for-Yield-and-Quality-Traits-in-Bottle-Gourd-[Lagenaria-siceraria-(Mol.)-Standl.]-Mritunjay-Rai-41.pdf','',1,'The current study was carried out in the summers of 2021 and 2022 at the Main Experiment Station, Department of Vegetable Science, College of Horticulture and Forestry, ANDUA&T, Kumarganj, Ayodhya (U.P.), India, to evaluate the heritability and genetic advancement. Days to first staminate flower anthesis, node number to first staminate flower appearance, node number to first pistillate flower appearance, vine length, number of primary branches plant-1, fruit length, fruit circumference, average fruit weight, ascorbic acid, reducing sugars, total sugars, and fruit yield plant-1 were all noted to have high estimates of narrow-sense heritability in both the years and pooled data while, days to first pistillate flower anthesis, days to first fruit harvest in Y1 and pooled whereas, number of fruits plant-1 in Y2 and Pooled respectively. For the node number to first staminate flower appearance, node number to first pistillate flower appearance, vine length, number of primary branches plant-1, fruit length, ascorbic acid, reducing sugars, non-reducing sugar, total sugars, dry matter content in fruit, and fruit yield plant-1, high heritability as well as high genetic advance in percent of mean were recorded in Y1 and Y2, whereas in Y2 only number of fruits plant-1. In pooled dry matter content and reducing sugars showed high heritability as well as high genetic advance in percent of mean, indicating that simple selection based on phenotypic performance of these traits would be more effective as these traits were strongly influenced by additive gene action.','Heritability, genetic advance, yield, line × tester, bottle gourd','Days to first staminate flower anthesis, node number to first staminate flower appearance, node number to first pistillate flower appearance, vine length, number of primary branches plant-1, fruit length, fruit circumference, average fruit weight, ascorbic acid, reducing sugars, total sugars, and fruit yield plant-1 in both the years and pooled recorded high heritability estimates in narrow sense. In pooled high heritability along with high genetic advance in percent of mean were recorded for reducing sugars and dry matter content in fruit indicated simple selection based on phenotypic performance of these traits would be more efficient as these traits were strongly influenced by additive gene action.','-','Mritunjay Rai, C.N. Ram, Ashish Kumar Singh, Aastik Jha and Anil Kumar (2023). Estimation of Heritability (Narrow sense) and Genetic Advance for Yield and Quality Traits in Bottle Gourd [Lagenaria siceraria (Mol.) Standl.]. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 15(6): 281-283.'),(6816,'147','Characterizing Genotypic Diversity: Flowering pattern, Grain Yield and Yield Attributes in Rice for Crop Improvement','Repudi Shalem Raju, Prashantkumar S. Hanjagi, Chittaranjan Sahoo, Sushma M. Awaji, K.C. Samal, B.N. Devanna and Manasi Dash','Characterizing-Genotypic-Diversity-Flowering-pattern,-Grain-Yield-and-Yield-Attributes-in-Rice-for-Crop-Improvement-Repudi-Shalem-Raju-125.pdf','',1,'Rice is an important staple food crop in the world. With increase in climate change rice production is getting affected and reduces the yield and production, increasing the yield production is necessary to meet the demand by the population. Understanding the genetic diversity of rice genotypes is crucial for enhancing breeding programs and improving agricultural productivity. The present study was investigated on the genotypic variation in flowering time, total grains, and yield attributes in diverse genotypes of Rice. The objective was to gain insights into the phenotypic traits of these genotypes and provide a traits for future breeding efforts. Flowering time was assessed by recording the number of days to 50% flowering, revealing a wide range of flowering duration between 60 to 80 days after sowing. Total grain production per panicle was examined between 20 and 40 days after flowering, with genotypes displaying significant variation in grain counts. Filling of grains in the panicle increased with maturity, while the number of unfilled grains decreased. The study also analyzed other agronomic traits, including the number of tillers per hill, 100 grains weight, and panicle length. Genotypes exhibited diverse tillering patterns, with 7 to 8 tillers being predominant. The weight of 100 grains ranged from 2.0 to 2.5 grams, while panicle length varied within the 24 to 28 cm range. This investigation provides valuable insights into the genotypic diversity of rice, enabling future breeding strategies focused on improving flowering time, grain production, and other important agronomic traits to enhance crop productivity and sustainability.','Flowering, grain production, genotypic diversity, Rice, yield attributes','In conclusion, the assessment of diverse rice genotypes for various agronomic traits revealed significant variation within the population. The genotypes exhibited diverse flowering times, productive tiller numbers, panicle lengths, and grain characteristics such as filled and unfilled grains, total grains per panicle, and 100 grains weight. These findings indicated the presence of genetic diversity in the studied traits, highlighting the potential for selecting genotypes with desirable agronomic traits. The results revealed valuable insights for rice breeding programs aimed at improving yield potential and grain quality. Further research and selection of genotypes with favorable traits can contribute to the development of high-yielding and superior rice varieties.','-','Repudi Shalem Raju, Prashantkumar S. Hanjagi, Chittaranjan Sahoo, Sushma M. Awaji, K.C. Samal, B.N. Devanna and Manasi Dash (2022). Characterizing Genotypic Diversity: Flowering pattern, Grain Yield and Yield Attributes in Rice for Crop Improvement. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 14(4a): 733-738.'),(6817,'147','In vitro efficacy of Fungicides, Plant Extracts, and Biocontrol Agents against the Toxic Strain of Aspergillus flavus (OK606055)','S. Pavan Kumar, A.K. Senapati, S. K. Beura, S.K. Panda and D.P. Samantray','In-vitro-efficacy-of-Fungicides,-Plant-Extracts,-and-Biocontrol-Agents-against-the-Toxic-Strain-of-Aspergillus-flavus-(OK606055)-S-Pavan-Kumar-126.pdf','',1,'Groundnut is an important oil seed crop for domestic markets as well as for foreign trade in several developing and developed countries. However, its production is limited by Aspergillus species, which cause quantitative losses and generate highly toxic and carcinogenic chemical substances called aflatoxins. To minimize the risk of aflatoxin contamination in groundnut investigated to determine the efficacy of 19 fungicides, 7 botanicals and 7 biocontrol agents. The fungicides, Azoxystrobin + Tebuconazole, Fluopicolide + Propamocarb hcl, Propiconazole and Azoxystrobin showed 100% inhibition of the fungus Aspergillus flavus (OK606055) over the control @500ppm, 1000ppm and 1500 ppm concentration. Among botanicals Neem leaf extract@ 5000, 10000 ppm concentration maximum reduced the growth of test pathogen with 50.59%, 100% growth inhibition compared with control. Among 7 biocontrol agents tested Trichoderma viride isolate 4 recorded maximum growth inhibition (79.17%) followed by Trichoderma viride isolate 2 (78.08%) and Trichoderma viride isolate 1 (76.53%) against Aspergillus flavus (OK606055).','Aspergillus flavus, Azoxystrobin, fungicides, botanicals','The following conclusions are being taken as a result of the findings from the investigation on the treatment of Aspergillus flavus. All of the in vitro tested test fungicides, botanicals, and biocontrol agents were fungistatic and antifungal to the test pathogens. However, it was discovered that fungicides like Azoxystrobin, Tebuconazole, and Propiconazole, as well as combination fungicides like Fluopicolide and Propamocarb hcl, were more effective against Aspergillus flavus.','-','S. Pavan Kumar, A.K. Senapati, S. K. Beura, S.K. Panda and D.P. Samantray (2022). Invitro efficacy of Fungicides, Plant Extracts, and Biocontrol Agents against the Toxic Strain of Aspergillus flavus (OK606055). Biological Forum – An International Journal, 14(4a): 739-744.'),(6818,'159','A comparative account of antibacterial efficacy of Madhuca longifolia (J Konig) J.F. Macbr and Butea monosperma (Lam) Taub flower extracts','Avishek Ghosh','A-comparative-account-of-antibacterial-efficacy-of-Madhuca-longifolia-(J-Konig)-J.F.-Macbr-and-Butea-monosperma-(Lam)-Taub-flower-extracts-Avishek-Ghosh-42.pdf','',1,'Plants and it’s various parts have been used with medicinal effects from the ancient times. Numerous parts of plants including leaves, flowers, barks, roots, obviously fruits and total plant body may be considered as source of variety of medicinal values. The phytochemicals, precisely the secondary metabolites have potent antimicrobial activities. Here, in this particular study, the antibacterial effect of flower extracts of Madhuca longifolia and Butea monosperma against enteric pathogens like Shigella flexneri, Salmonella enterica Typhimurium, Pseudomonas aeruginosa and Escherichia coli (control) was tested. Flowers of above mentioned plants were collected and extracted with methanol and methanolic extracts were made into powder form. The preservation of flowers in their original state as far as possible was a challenging task in this study since loss of original quality could influence actual effect of the phytochemicals on the target bacteria. These powdered extracts were used to treat enteric pathogens to study different growth and pathogenicity related properties. Inhibition of growth and other pathogenic potentials by the use of these extracts were evident in case of the above mentioned well-known enteric pathogens from this particular study. The obtained result indicated that, Madhuca longifolia flower extract was more potent compared to Butea monosperma flower extract in antibacterial activity. ','Phytochemicals, Ethnomedicine, Biofilm, Minimal Inhibitory Concentration, Minimal Bactericidal Concentration','The present day scenario of growing multiple drug resistance amongst various bacterial pathogens places a challenging task to treat most of the bacterial diseases. To overcome this problem, the trend of using complementary and alternative medicines is expanding in many developing countries in recent years. In this aspect, the ethnomedicinal values of these plants may be revisited following their usage from ancient times. This particular study throws light on the usage of flower extracts of B. monosperma and M. longifolia against the important enteric pathogens and most significantly against the pathogen P. aeruginosa. The findings from this study will be helpful in strengthening the research on alternative medicines which demands the further detailed profiling of these types of bio-active compounds in combating various diseases in future.','-','Avishek Ghosh (2023). A comparative account of antibacterial efficacy of Madhuca longifolia (J Konig) J.F. Macbr and Butea monosperma (Lam) Taub flower extracts. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 15(6): 284-290.'),(6819,'159','MRI as an imaging modality in evaluation of spinal pathologies causing Compressive Myelopathy','Yuvabalakumaran G., Srikar B., Vinoth Kumar S. and Sidhesh R.M. and Anupritha S.','MRI-as-an-imaging-modality-in-evaluation-of-spinal-pathologies-causing-Compressive-Myelopathy-Yuvabalakumaran-G-43.pdf','',1,'Quadriplegia and impairment are most commonly caused by spinal cord compression. Many spinal cord illnesses can be reversed if detected and treated early on, making them one of the most serious neurologic crises. MRI is used to differentiate between compressive and non-compressive causes of myelopathy. The goals of this study are to reliably locate a spinal tumour as Extradural / Intradural location, also to evaluate the spinal cord, intervertebral discs and ligament integrity following acute spinal trauma. MRI was performed on patients with a probable clinical history of compressive myelopathy in VMKV medical college, Salem. Purposive sampling was used to choose the patients for the study and descriptive analysis was used to evaluate the data. Spinal trauma (43.3 %) and spinal infection / TB (23.3 %) were the most common causes of spinal cord compression. Extradural compressive lesions accounted for 25 of the 30 cases, while Intradural – Extramedullary lesions accounted for 5. There were 13 cases of spinal damage, 7 cases of infective spondylitis with epidural component, one epidural abscess, and 5 metastases among the twenty-five extradural compressive pathology. 4 out of 5 intradural tumours were appropriately detected. So, MRI is the gold standard for evaluating soft tissue injuries in the spine, including spinal cord edema/contusion, intervertebral discs, and ligaments. Although MRI is most sensitive tool for detecting, characterising, and grading spinal infections, biopsy and culture are still required for a definitive diagnosis. So, at the conclusion, I can say that MRI is non-invasive, radiation free which is highly definitive, sensitive, and accurate modality for evaluating compressive myelopathy. ','Spine, compressive myelopathy, spinal trauma, extradural compression, intradural neoplasms, MRI','MRI is the gold standard for detecting abnormalities in the soft tissues of the spine and the spinal cord with good anatomical delineation. It is the most effective and the most sensitive method for determining cord edema in initial compression stages and cord contusions, also good to visualize the intervertebral discs, neural foramen and ligaments (mainly ALL & PLL) integrity. MRI is a highly sensitive imaging technique that is often used to detect and characterise spinal lesions and also infections. Biopsy and histological investigation are still used to make the final diagnosis. MRI is the only imaging technique that can directly view the spinal cord without any invasive procedure.\r\nIn my research, we were able to classify the spinal masses / tumors depending on anatomical location into extradural or intradural compartment and analyse the full length of spinal cord at all the levels, IV discs and disc spaces, also the integrity of ligaments following acute spinal trauma using MRI. So, at the conclusion, I can say that MRI is a highly precise, sensitive, accurate and non-invasive modality for evaluating compressive myelopathy without using radiation.\r\n','-','Yuvabalakumaran G., Srikar B., Vinoth Kumar S., Sidhesh R.M. and Anupritha S. (2023). MRI as an imaging modality in evaluation of spinal pathologies causing Compressive Myelopathy. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 15(6): 291-296.'),(6820,'159','Laying Performance and Egg Quality Traits of Vanaraja Birds as Influenced by Dietary Supplementation of Turmeric Powder','Naorem Diana Devi, R. Zuyie, V.K. Vidyarthi, Nizamuddin, M.C. Rutsa, J. Longkumer, Sanjoy Das and Rajan Singh','Laying-Performance-and-Egg-Quality-Traits-of-Vanaraja-Birds-as-Influenced-by-Dietary-Supplementation-of-Turmeric-Powder-Rajan-Singh-44.pdf','',1,'The present study was conducted to use turmeric powder as an alternative to antibiotics properties. The current study was designed to determine laying performance, albumin index, yolk index, haugh unit, and yolk cholesterol as influenced by different levels of turmeric powder dietary supplementation. The experimental birds were randomly divided into four treatment groups designated as T1, T2, T3 and T4 with thirty (30) chicks in each group having five replicates of six (6) birds each. They were subjected to four dietary levels of turmeric powder containing 0%, 0.5%, 0.75%, and 1.5%, respectively, for a period of 365 days. The overall level of statistical significance was defined as p<0.05. The significance of the result was evaluated using an analysis of variance (ANOVA) in the computer software WASP. Dietary supplementation with turmeric powder improved laying performance and enhanced egg quality traits. Yolk index and albumen index increased (p<0.05) while yolk cholesterol decreased with the increase in the level of turmeric powder. On the basis of the above findings, supplementation of turmeric powder at 0.75 per cent of feed can be recommended under Nagaland\'s agro-climatic conditions.','Vanaraja birds, Turmeric, Egg production, albumen index, yolk cholesterol','Turmeric powder supplementation at the rate of 0.75 resulted in better performance in egg production and egg quality traits of Vanaraja birds as compared to the control group. Therefore, on the basis of the above findings, the use of turmeric powder as a feed additive at the rate of 0.75 in poultry diets may be advocated for better production performance and for producing better-quality eggs.','-','Naorem Diana Devi, R. Zuyie, V.K. Vidyarthi, Nizamuddin, M.C. Rutsa, J. Longkumer, Sanjoy Das and Rajan Singh (2023). Laying Performance and Egg Quality Traits of Vanaraja Birds as Influenced by Dietary Supplementation of Turmeric Powder. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 15(6): 297-301.'),(6821,'159','In-silico Analysis of SMXL Transcription Factor genes in Pigeon Pea (Cajanus cajan (L.) Millsp.)','Sreeshma N., Manoj M.L. and Nagendra K.S.','In-silico-Analysis-of-SMXL-Transcription-Factor-genes-in-Pigeon-Pea-(Cajanus-cajan-(L.)-Millsp.)-Sreeshma N-45.pdf','',1,'Pigeon pea is a hardy crop useful for climate-resilient agriculture and nutritional security. Research on the shoot architecture and plant type of the crop will help produce high-yielding varieties suitable for mechanization. Finding genes to improve shoot architecture in pigeon pea is difficult because there is not a complete genome sequence or data on growth habits in different genotypes. Strigolactone (Sl) is a plant hormone involved in the root and shoot architecture. Understanding the Sl signalling pathway in pigeon pea will help to make varieties with the desired shoot architecture. The Sl signalling pathway involves the degradation of Suppressor of MAX2 Like (SMXL) genes, resulting in the expression of Sl-responsive genes. SMXLs are transcription repressors, and the presence of the RGKT motif is necessary for ubiquitination and degradation of this protein. In this study, seven SMXL genes present in the pigeon peagenome were identified and characterized using in silico methods. Two of the identified CcSMXL genes, namely CcSMXL3 and CcSMXL5, have the RGKT motif. Using the identified genes, the core population can be genotyped for the phenotype. Expression analysis of these genes in pigeon pea germplasm, together with phenotypevariation for shoot architecture, would help establish their association with the trait for utilization of these genes in pigeon pea improvement. Additionally, it will help to enhance the shoot architecture by using breeding and biotechnology tools.','Pigeon pea, shoot architecture, Strigolactone, SMXL','In the available genome sequence of pigeonpea, seven CcSMXL genes were identified. The RGKT motif, required for Sl signalling, is present in only two SMXL genes, namely CcSMXL3 and CcSMXL5. The CcSMXL genes appear to have a common phylogenetic ancestry, motif sequences, and functions. ','-','Sreeshma N., Manoj M.L. and Nagendra K.S. (2023). In-silico Analysis of SMXL Transcription Factor genes in Pigeon Pea (Cajanus cajan (L.) Millsp.). Biological Forum – An International Journal, 15(6): 302-305.'),(6822,'159','Alkaline Proteases Producing Bacillus species Isolated from River (Aram) Side Soil','Rajendrabhai Daulatbhai Vasait','Alkaline-Proteases-Producing-Bacillus-species-Isolated-from-River-(Aram)-Side-Soil-Rajendrabhai-D-Vasait-46.pdf','',1,'In the current work, bacteria having the capacity to synthesise extracellular proteases were screened out. From rhizosphere soil and soil samples taken from the nearby riverfront in Satana, Dist. Nashik, Maharashtra, an effort was undertaken in order to obtain protease-producing bacterial strains. On a skim milk agar plate, ten strains showed zones of clearance around colonies. The isolates were biochemically characterised by tests such as indole, methyl red, Vogues Proskauer, citrate utilization, detection of enzyme production assays for amylase, oxidase, urease, catalase, and the capacity to hydrolyse starch. Because of protein hydrolysis, isolate RDV 01 had the greatest zone of clearance. The enzyme produced was an extracellular, alkaline protease, according to the characterization. The isolate RDV 01 was identified on the basis of morphological, biochemical characteristics, 16S rRNA sequencing, and a phylogenetic tree. After studying the morphological and biochemical characters, the isolated organism was identified as a member of the genus Bacillus, and NCBI blast and phylogenetic analysis confirmed that the isolate RDV 01 may be related to species JSG1 with 100% homology as revealed. Industrially important alkaline proteases production from bacterial sources has been evaluated in this study.','Alkaline proteases, Bacillus, Skim milk agar, Proteolysis','In this present study, 10 bacterial isolates were examined for the zone of clearance around colonies on skim milk agar plates. The bacterial isolate RDV 01 exhibited a considerably maximum zone of hydrolysis of protein. The Bacillus species RDV 01 was assessed for its ability to produce proteolytic enzymes and be active in an alkaline environment. In the present study, we successfully isolated and identified Bacillus strain RDV 01 producing alkaline proteases, which may prove their applicability for various purposes after extensive study.','-','Rajendrabhai Daulatbhai Vasait (2023). Alkaline Proteases Producing Bacillus species isolated from River (Aram) Side Soil. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 15(6): 306-310.'),(6823,'159','Study of Medicinal Plants used in the Treatments of Diseases such as –Digestive, Respiratory & Cancer of Guret Village, District Una, Himachal Pradesh','Pushpa Thakur, Monika Verma and Ayushi Gupta','Study-of-Medicinal-Plants-used-in-the-Treatment-of-Diseases-such-as-–-Digestive,-Respiratory-&-Cancer-of-Guret-Village,-District-Una,-Himachal-Pradesh-Pushpa-Thakur-47.pdf','',1,'State endows with a high diversity of medicinal plants. In many parts of Himachal Pradesh rural people depends upon plants for treating various ailments. Present study focused on the documentation of plant species used against digestive, respiratory, and cancer diseases in district Una, Himachal Pradesh, India. Study documented 14 plant species to treat digestive disorder, 10 species to treat respiratory and 8 plant species were used to cure cancer problem. In this study herbal remedies found to be largely prepared by decoction and were administered mainly orally. Different plant parts i.e. leaves, root, seed, bark, flowers, stem and whole plants were used. Herbal medicines have many useful properties including low side effects, more affordable and alleviate concern about the adverse effects of chemical medicine, satisfy a desire for personalized health care and allow greater public access to health information. Rural and tribal community of Himachal Pradesh largely depends on herbal sources for curing different types of diseases. Due to the absence of scientific monitoring of plants and lack of awareness among these people, the availability of valuable plant resources is decreasing at an alarming rate. Therefore, the present study is a necessary step towards the goal of raising awareness in local communities about the importance of the plant and their further conservation.','Medicinal plants, traditional healers, diseases, Una, H.P.','The people of the remote areas in Himachal Pradesh mostly depend on folk knowledge of medicinal plants to cure various ailments. The present study was carried out to document and analyze traditional use regarding the medicinal plants among communities residing in Guret village of Una district, H.P. Medicinal plants used by traditional healers and local people in the village were documented along with their local name, scientific name, family, part used and mode of administration. A total 14 plant species belonging to 12 families were recorded to treat digestive problems, 10 plant species with 9 families have respiratory potential and 8 plant species belonging to 7 families were used to treat cancer problems. In the present study herbal remedies were found to be largely prepared by decoction and were administered mainly orally. Documentation and identification of local plants of an area is essential as it can provide information about the abundance of plant species of the study region. Documentation will also help in preserving ethno-botanical knowledge and biodiversity of the area.','-','Pushpa Thakur, Monika Verma and Ayushi Gupta (2023). Study of Medicinal Plants used in the Treatment of Diseases such as – Digestive, Respiratory & Cancer of Guret Village, District Una, Himachal Pradesh. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 15(6): 311-316.'),(6824,'159','Formulation and Sensory Evaluation of Fenugreek and Horse Gram Microgreens incorporated Value-added Products','S. Sravishta, R. Krithika and Raajeswari Paramasivam','Formulation-and-Sensory-Evaluation-of-Fenugreek-and-Horse-Gram-Microgreens-incorporated-Value-added-Products-Raajeswari-Paramasivam-48.pdf','',1,'Microgreens are a popular food item right now because of their rich phytonutrient content and as a flavouring agent and garnishing and a rich source of phytonutrients. They can enhance food and nutritional security and conserve and improve biodiversity and environmental sustainability, either directly or indirectly. More than 150 plants have been designated as GRAS by the FDA, with no consumption restrictions. The nutrient content, antioxidant DPPH assay, and phytochemical screening of two microgreens namely fenugreek and horse gram were investigated. The current research revealed that a natural source of micronutrients and antioxidants against a variety of oxidative stress-related disorders can be found in microgreens. The findings of the present study revealed that fenugreek, and horse gram microgreens are potential sources of natural antioxidants. The biggest challenge in today\'s world is maintaining food of excellent quality. In the present research, ready-to-serve instant soup mix, instant chutney powders, and health mix were prepared using fenugreek and horse gram microgreen powders. All new value-added items went through sensory analysis. Due to their high nutrient content, microgreens can enhance the dietary value of humans. To prevent the occurrence of numerous deficiencies that are common in today\'s populations, using these nutrient-rich microgreens can be a viable alternative.','Microgreens, Fenugreek, Horse gram, Instant mixes, and Sensory evaluation','The potential antioxidant phytochemical and nutrient content of fenugreek and horse gram microgreens have been assessed in the current study using their aqueous extracts. Microgreens and other natural sources of antioxidant compounds are excellent sources of antioxidant activity for use as natural supplements. The extract from both microgreens may have strong antioxidant properties because of the high amount of phenolic content in it. Therefore, it would be advised to combine mature leafy equivalents with micro greens to receive enough amounts of phytochemicals for a healthy diet in order to obtain the greatest benefits in terms of dietary antioxidants. Thus, incorporation of these microgreens in food would aid or reversing several oxidative stress-related ailments and prevent the occurrence of various metabolic disorder.\r\nIn addition, the potential antioxidant benefits of medicinal plants make them valuable sources for the food business. If fenugreek and horse gram microgreens can be employed as a food preservative and an antioxidant nutraceutical, more study is needed to confirm this. \r\nBecause of their perishable nature, it can be inferred from the current study that microgreens have a very short shelf life and can be dehydrated using various methods. Following dehydration, the product can be added to a variety of ready-to-serve food additives, including instant soup mix, instant chutney powder, and health mix. Because the prepared fenugreek and horse gram microgreens were so well received, instant soup mix, rapid chutney powders, and health mix were added. \r\n','-','S. Sravishta, R. Krithika and Raajeswari Paramasivam (2023). Formulation and Sensory Evaluation of Fenugreek and Horse Gram Microgreens incorporated Value-added Products. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 15(6): 317-322.'),(6825,'159','Characterization of Pear Accessions in Jammu Region on the Basis of Leaf Characters','Ambika Bhandari, Amit Jasrotia, Mahital Jamwal, Kiran Kour, Deep ji Bhat, Gurdev Chand and Vivak M. Arya ','Characterization-of-Pear-Accessions-in-Jammu-Region-on-the-Basis-of-Leaf-Characters-Ambika-Bhandari-49.pdf','',1,'The objective of this study was to assess the diversity of soft pear germplasm in the Jammu region and identify exceptional soft pear genotypes with superior characteristics. A total of sixty soft pear genotypes were gathered from diverse locations within the Jammu region, and an extensive examination of their distinct morphological characteristics was conducted. The pear genotypes exhibited significant variation in terms of leaf characteristics. A collection of 60 pear accessions was assembled from various locations in the Jammu district, and their diverse morphological traits were thoroughly examined. The studied genotypes demonstrated diversity concerning leaf characteristics. The findings revealed a substantial variation in the following leaf parameters: leaf length ranging from 4.38 cm to 9.00 cm, leaf breadth spanning from 2.00 cm to 5.33 cm, leaf shape index varying between 1.02 cm and 3.41 cm, leaf area ranging from 13.66 cm to 40.35 cm, and petiole length varying from 1.00 cm to 4.16 cm. Pear cultivars often have a narrower genetic base due to the selection and propagation of a limited number of commercially desirable traits. This can result in reduced adaptability, susceptibility to diseases, and limited potential for future breeding improvements. The findings indicated that the observed variations in these traits could be attributed to the genotypes present or the prevailing environmental conditions in the cultivation regions, or a combination of both these factors. The observed variation in leaf characteristics indicates the presence of a diverse range of traits among the studied genotypes, which holds promising potential for future enhancement programs. This variability can be harnessed for the development and improvement of pear cultivars.','Characterization, Genotypes, Pear, Leaf, Variability','The objective of our research was to acquire a wide range of soft pear varieties, and our investigation has substantiated the existence of a substantial diversity of soft pear in the North Western Himalayan region. Consequently, it has become imperative to safeguard these distinctive genetic resources in order to enhance morphological quality parameters. Moreover, in order to guarantee their preservation, exchange, and utilization in forthcoming breeding programs, as well as to foster the development of innovative, market-oriented cultivars through the implementation of efficient genetic methodologies, further exploration is indispensable.','-','Ambika Bhandari, Amit Jasrotia, Mahital Jamwal, Kiran Kour, Deep ji Bhat, Gurdev Chand and Vivak M. Arya (2023). Characterization of Pear Accessions in Jammu Region on the Basis of Leaf Characters. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 15(6): 323-328.'),(6826,'159','Uses of Myo-inositol and D-chiro-inositol for Management of PCOD','Jain D., Khan W. and Singh S.','Uses-of-Myo-inositol-and-D-chiro-inositol-for-Management-of-PCOD-Jain-D-50.pdf','',1,'Polycystic ovarian disease, when diagnosed among women has been demonstrated to be associated with resistance to insulin with hyper-insulinemia. It is mainly due to deficiencies of Myo-inositol and D-chiro-inositol enriched Phosphoglycans which act as a mediator for insulin functioning. These medicinal agents normalize ovarian functioning, improvement of oocytes along with the quality of embryo in PCOD patients. The main challenge to the treatment of PCOS lies in its early detection in the young females. This can be overcome by conducting regular checkups and monitoring biochemical test results of LH/FSH ratio and fasting blood glucose in teenage females so classifying early symptoms can help in timely treatment of the disorder.\r\nThis review article presents an overview of various published articles on the pathogenesis of PCOD, roles of Myo-inositol and D-chiro-inositol in regulating the pathophysiology and treating the condition without any hormone based intervention in both obese and non-obese female patients.\r\n','PCOD, young females, Myo-inositol, D-chiro-inositol, insulin, obesity','Both Myo-inositol and D-chiro-inositol are insulin based secondary messengers. Myo-inositol influences the follicular gonadotropin pathway which assists ovulation. D-chiro-Inositol modulates release of androgen and helps in insulin signal transduction, while inhibiting ovarian aromatase synthesis. Inositols have proven to be effective in PCOS by improving metabolic and hormonal state, and restoring spontaneous ovulation. In assisted reproductive technology, inositols have revealed improvement of ovarian stimulation parameters, although data concerning fertility outcomes are conflicting. Given their functions, inositols are an attractive treatment option for PCOS, although ingenious studies on spontaneous and non-spontaneous fertility are needed.','-','Jain D., Khan W. and Singh S. (2023). Uses of Myo-inositol and D-chiro-inositol for Management of PCOD. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 15(6): 329-332.'),(6827,'159','Studies on the effect of different Storage conditions on Keeping quality and Physical properties of Orange Fleshed Sweet potato (Ipomea batatas L. Lam) Flour Cake','Madhu Chanabasappa Biradar, K. Ramachandra Naik, Kirankumar Gorabal, Dileepkumar A. Masuthi, Sumangala Koulagi and Nataraja K.H. ','Studies-on-the-effect-of-different-Storage-conditions-on-Keeping-quality-and-Physical-properties-of-Orange-Fleshed-Sweet-potato-(Ipomea-batatas-L.-Lam)-Flour-Cake-Madhu-Chanabasappa--Biradar-51.pdf','',1,'The shelf life of fresh sweet potato tubers only a few days and they are semi-perishable in nature. This necessitates the development of user-friendly processing techniques for the tubers. If sweet potato is converted in to flour, it can be used to make a variety of foods, products, including baked products. In this study, the effect of different storage conditions on keeping quality and physical properties of orange fleshed sweet potato (Ipomea batatas L. Lam) flour cake was investigated. Cakes were prepared by substituting orange fleshed sweet potato flour and wheat flour in standard recipe at different proportions 0, 10, 20, 30, 40 and 50%. The diameter and thickness of cake showed a slight decreasing in trend from 6.175 to 4.979 cm and from 3.80 to 1.64 cm respectively. Moisture content and volume found to decrease from 31.62 to 6.27 per cent and 145.13 to 40.67 g/l respectively. While spread ratio and density increased from 1.63 to 3.04 and 0.145 to 0.625 g/cm3 respectively with respect to two different storage conditions. In case of instrumental colour values, decrease in trend was observed throughout the storage with respect to L*, increase trend was observed in a* and b* values. The L* (69.14 to 22.85), whereas increase in a* (3.09 to 4.88) and b* values varied from 20.74 to 30.66 among different storage conditions. Cakes prepared from F4 treatment (70% WF + 30% SPF) has shown highest score for overall acceptability compared to other treatments.','Orange fleshed sweet potato (OFSP), Wheat flour (WF), ambient condition, Refrigerated condition, Days after storage (DAS)','The treated cakes showed better storage stability as compared to control samples. Better maintenance of moisture content, diameter, thickness, volume, density, colour values and overall acceptability was observed in refrigerated stored cakes (S1) compared to ambient condition (S2) up to final days of storage. Organoleptically acceptable of orange fleshed sweet potato flour enriched cakes can be prepared by the combination of 30 per cent SPF flour, 70 per cent wheat flour (F4) at initial and final days of storage at (S1) refrigerated condition.','-','Madhu Chanabasappa Biradar, K. Ramachandra Naik, Kirankumar Gorabal, Dileepkumar A. Masuthi, Sumangala Koulagi and Nataraja K.H. (2023). Studies on the effect of different Storage conditions on Keeping quality and Physical properties of Orange Fleshed Sweet potato (Ipomea batatas L. Lam) Flour Cake. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 15(6): 333-341.'),(6828,'159','Relative and Mean Density of Natural Enemies and Storage Pests associated with Lac Insect, Kerria lacca (Kerr) in Arid Western Plains','Dipali Samridhi, Hemant Swami, Anil Vyas, Sheenam Bhateja and Vikram','Relative-and-Mean-Density-of-Natural-Enemies-and-Storage-Pests-associated-with-Lac-Insect,-Kerria-lacca-(Kerr)-in-Arid-Western-Plains-Dipali-Samridhi-52.pdf','',1,'Lac insect (Kerria lacca) is an economically important scale insect belonging to family Tachardiidae and order Hemiptera. It secrets resin which is used for the production of various artifacts. Large number of insects are found to be associated with lac insect that cause a huge loss to lac production as they feed on both lac insect and lac encrustations. Lac encrustations are heavily infested by insect pests in various parts of country including Arid Western Plains. Minute parasitoids and storage pests associated with lac insect are difficult to distinguish, therefore, there is an insufficient knowledge on the relative abundance of different natural enemies and storage pests associated with lac insect which restricts their effective management and hinders lac production in the region. A proper knowledge on the relative and mean densities of insect fauna infesting lac insect will help in the identification of most damaging insect pest fauna for its effective management. Hence the present study was carried out to find the relative density and mean density of different insect fauna associated with lac insect in Arid Western Plains, during 2022. Relative density of natural enemies and storage pests was maximum in Rajasthan followed by Haryana and Gujarat contributing 46.31, 34.73 & 18.94 per cent and 38.67, 33.53 & 28.09 per cent, respectively. The mean density of both natural enemies and storage pests was maximum in Haryana followed by Gujarat and Rajasthan with 1.43, 1.38 & 0.97 and 2.39, 2.11 & 1.42, respectively. Among natural enemies, relative and mean density both was recorded the maximum for primary parasitoids followed by predators and hyperparasitoids with 56.84, 38.42 & 4.73 per cent, respectively and 0.60, 0.40 & 0.05, respectively. Among storage pests, both relative and mean density was maximum for individuals of Liposelidae followed by Curculionidae and Silvanidae with 84.40, 15.50 & 1.20 per cent and 1.53, 0.28, 0.02, respectively.','Kerria lacca, lac, relative density, mean density, predators, primary parasitoids, hyperparasitoids','Among the insect fauna associated with lac insect (Kerria lacca) the maximum relative and mean densities of 56.84 per cent and 0.60 was recorded for primary parasitoids (Encrytidae & Eulophidae) which was followed by the predators (Noctuidae & Blastobasidae) and hyperparasitoids (Braconidae) with relative densities of 38.42 & 4.73 per cent and mean densities of 0.40 & 0.05, respectively. The relative density of the natural enemies which emerged from the collected lac samples was maximum with 46.31 per cent in Rajasthan followed by 34.73 per cent in Haryana and 18.94 per cent in Gujarat whereas, mean density of natural enemies was maximum of 1.43 in Haryana and was followed by 1.38 & 0.97 in Gujarat & Rajasthan, respectively. Among storage pests a high relative density was recorded for individuals belonging to family Liposelidae followed by Cuculionidae and Silvanidae with 84.40, 15.50 & 1.20 per cent, respectively.','-','Dipali Samridhi, Hemant Swami, Anil Vyas, Sheenam Bhateja and Vikram (2023). Relative and Mean Density of Natural Enemies and Storage Pests associated with Lac Insect, Kerria lacca (Kerr) in Arid Western Plains. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 15(6): 342-347.'),(6829,'159','Current Treatment of COPD - A Review','Aakanksha Tyagi, Vijay Pal Singh and Sanjay Singh','Current-Treatment-of-COPD---A-Review-Aakanksha-Tyagi-53.pdf','',1,'A progressive respiratory disorder known as chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) is characterised by persistent respiratory symptoms and restricted airflow. In order to treat COPD, it must be possible to lessen symptoms, enhance quality of life, and avoid exacerbations. The current methods used to treat COPD are summarised in this abstract.\r\nThe cornerstone of COPD treatment is pharmacological therapies. Airflow is improved and bronchospasm is relieved with bronchodilators, such as short- and long-acting beta-agonists (LABAs), and anticholinergic. For individuals who experience frequent exacerbations and eosinophilic inflammation, inhaled corticosteroids (ICS) and LABAs are frequently administered together. However, ICS use is individualised depending on exacerbation risk and unique patient characteristics. The management of COPD must include non-pharmacological measures. The best intervention to decrease disease development continues to be quitting smoking. To prevent lung function deterioration and hospitalisations, acute COPD exacerbations require immediate care. During exacerbations, short courses of oral corticosteroids and antibiotics are frequently administered, with clinical and microbiological considerations. In some individuals with persistent respiratory failure, long-term oxygen therapy may be an option. A multimodal strategy combining pharmaceutical and non-pharmacological therapies is required for the management of COPD. The best results come from individualised treatment programmes that take into account the severity of the disease, the likelihood of an exacerbation, and specific patient variables. The range of treatments accessible to COPD patients is constantly expanding thanks to on-going research and improvements in therapeutic approaches. The variability of the illness and the difficulty in creating standardised treatment regimens are two difficulties in understanding and treating COPD. The development of pharmaceutical and non-pharmacological therapies, however, as a result of continuous research and improvements in therapy strategies, has improved results for COPD patients and broadened the spectrum of accessible treatment choices.\r\n','COPD, Smoking, Bronchodilators, Pulmonary vasculatures, inflammatory','In conclusion, treatment for chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) involves a combination of pharmaceutical and non-pharmacological approaches. To improve airflow and manage exacerbations in COPD patients, pharmaceutical therapies such bronchodilators and inhaled corticosteroids are employed. Non-pharmacological therapies like quitting smoking are crucial for the management of illnesses. As soon as an exacerbation occurs, corticosteroids and antibiotics should be given to help arrest further decline. Chronic respiratory failure patients may be candidates for long-term oxygen therapy. The options available to those who suffer from COPD are expanding as a consequence of ongoing research and advancements in therapy modalities that have improved treatment outcomes.','-','Aakanksha Tyagi, Vijay Pal Singh and Sanjay Singh (2023). Current Treatment of COPD - A Review. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 15(6): 348-353.'),(6830,'159','Studies on different Germplasm of Bael (Aegle marmelos L.) based on Chemical Characters of Bael under Sodic Soil condition of Eastern Uttar Pradesh','Alok Kumar, Bhanu Pratap, H.K. Singh, Lavkush Pandey, Ritesh Singh and Anshuman Singh','Studies-on-different-Germplasm-of-Bael-(Aegle-marmelos-L.)-based-on-Chemical-Characters-of-Bael-under-Sodic-Soil-condition-of-Eastern-Uttar-Pradesh-Alok-Kumar-54.pdf','',1,'Experiment was conducted in year 2021-22 and 2022-23 at main experimentation college of Horticulture & Forestry Acharya Narendra Deva University of Agriculture & Technology, Kumarganj, Ayodhya (U.P.) to study on different germplasm of bael (Aegle marmelos L.) based on chemical characters of bael under sodic soil condition of Uttar Pradesh. The experiment trail comprises of thirteen germplasm N.B.-4, N.B.-5, N.B.-7, N.B.-8, N.B.-9N.B.-10, N.B.-16, N.B.-17, N.B.-22, CIAH B-1, CISH B-2, Pant Aparna, Pant Sujata for the evaluation of TSS, acidity, ascorbic acid, reducing sugar, non-reducing sugar, and total sugars, using principal component analysis and cluster analysis for utilization in crop improvement. The result revealed that the highest T.S.S. is found for the genotype N.B.-17 (40.2 %), highest acidity in Pant Sujata (0.46 %), Ascorbic acid in N.B.-5 (20.5 %), reducing sugar in Pant Aparna (5.2 %), non-reducing sugar N.B.-9 (15.4 %) and total sugar in Pant Aparna N.B.-9(20.5 %), so these genotypes are found best for the both year data set and they are further recommended for the production and breeding programme.','Sodic soil, Crop improvement, T.S.S., sugar, Bael germplasm','As per the data evaluated in the result revealed that the best genotype having the highest T.S.S. is N.B.-17 (40.2 %) and the genotype having the highest acidity percentage is Pant Sujata and N.B.-16, best genotype for the highest amount of the ascorbic acid found in N.B.-5 (20.55 %) mg. the reducing sugar is found highest in the genotype Pant Aparna (0.44 %) and highest amount of non-reducing sugar and total sugar found in the genotype N.B.-9.','-','Alok Kumar, Bhanu Pratap, H.K Singh, Lavkush Pandey, Ritesh Singh and Anshuman Singh (2023). Studies on different Germplasm of Bael (Aegle marmelos L.) based on Chemical Characters of Bael under Sodic Soil condition of Eastern Uttar Pradesh. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 15(6): 354-360.'),(6831,'159','A Preliminary Study on Diversity of Snakes rescued from Gauhati University Campus, Assam','Tikendrajit Gogoi, Sanghamitra Buragohain and Manab Jyoti Kalita','A-Preliminary-Study-on-Diversity-of-Snakes-rescued-from-Gauhati-University-Campus,-Assam-Manab-Jyoti-Kalita-55.pdf','',1,'During a four years study period, from 2018 to 2022, as per calls received from inhabitants of the Gauhati University campus for rescue of snakes in the campus, a checklist of rescued snake was prepared. Snakes were captured with Snake Catcher Stick taking proper safety measures and released them into their natural habitat, way from human settlement without hurting the individuals. A total of 19 species of snake belonging to 8 families were recorded out of which 6 species belonging to 3 family were venomous, 1 species was mildly venomous and 12 species belonging to 5 family were non-venomous.Two species are vulnerable, one species belonging to near threatened and other 14 species are enlisted in least concern categories of IUCN red list. It\'s positively unusual to find such a variety of snakes on a campus housing an educational institution. These species should be protected because they are crucial to sustaining ecological balance. Conducting a preliminary study on the diversity of snakes rescued from a campus presents several challenges, including capturing a representative sample of the campus\'s snake population, which is difficult to locate, and ensuring safety during this type of study, considering the potentially venomous nature of some snake species.','Snake diversity, checklist, rescued, Gauhati University, Conservation','The abundance of biodiversity is a valuable asset for humanity, and taking appropriate measures to preserve it can greatly benefit the current generation and fulfill the needs of future generations to the highest degree (Lekharu et al., 2023). Hence, the sighting of such a diverse range of snakes indicates a potential herpeto-faunal habitat in the area. Moreover, these findings also state that the organisms of the lower habitat must also be present to enable the proper functioning of food web. The presence of this diversity of snakes in an educational campus is very unique in a positive manner. We should try to conserve these species as they are of utmost importance in maintaining the ecological harmony. Since we have so many misunderstandings about snakes, many of them are killed. It’s time for us to understand the importance of snakes in our environment and the fact that they are not unnecessary animals. Further elaborative study on the faunal diversity in the campus is very crucial to have a vast knowledge on the wild inhabitants in the area.','-','Tikendrajit Gogoi, Sanghamitra Buragohain and Manab Jyoti Kalita (2023). A Preliminary Study on Diversity of Snakes rescued from Gauhati University Campus, Assam. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 15(6): 361-366.'),(6832,'159','Effect of different Nitrogen and Potassium Levels on Yield and yield attributes of Coriander (Coriandrum sativum L.)','Niranjan Saryam, B.P. Bisen, Ranjeet Singh and Aakash Dahayat','Effect-of-different-Nitrogen-and-Potassium-Levels-on-Yield-and-yield-attributes-of-Coriander-(Coriandrum-sativum-L.)-Niranjan-Saryam-56.pdf','',1,'The studied was conducted during the Rabi season of 2019-20 at Vegetable Research Farm, Department of Horticulture, JNKVV, Jabalpur (M.P.). The treatment combinations consisting of three levels of nitrogen (70, 80 and 90 kg ha-1) and four levels of potassium (0, 30, 40 and 50 kgha-1) were replicated thrice. The highest yield and yield attributes were significantly observed in the treatment of nitrogen 90 kg ha-1 viz., number of umbel plant-1(17.71), number of umbellets umbel-1 (5.65), number of seeds umbel-1 (6.06), test weight (13.20g), seed yield plant-1 (5.72g), seed yield plot-1 (1.20kg), seed yield ha-1 (16.04q) and potassium 50 kg ha-1 viz., number of umbels plant-1 (16.73), seed yield plant-1 (5.24g), seed yield plot-1 (1.16kg), seed yield ha-1 (15.56q) was obtained in coriander.','Nitrogen, potassium, coriander, yield, yield attributes','Based on the results of the study, it can be said that the coriander variety Jawahar Dhaniya-10 responded favourably in terms of yield and yield-attributing traits. In terms of yield and yield attributing features, the treatment combination N90K40 was determined to be much better. Accordingly, from the perspective of yield, it is determined that the coriander crop should be fertilized with a treatment combination of 90 kg N ha-1 and 40 kg K ha-1 in order to ensure increased yield.','-','Niranjan Saryam, B.P. Bisen, Ranjeet Singh and Aakash Dahayat (2023). Effect of different Nitrogen and Potassium Levels on Yield and yield attributes of Coriander (Coriandrum sativum L.). Biological Forum – An International Journal, 15(6): 367-370.'),(6833,'159','Simple Semi-Hydroponic System for Single Leaf Propagation of Baliospermum montanum L. - An Important Medicinal Plant','Karthik S., Basker S., Dheeban Shankar P., Saravanan K., Abdhul K., Ramya E.K., Sharmila S. and Anbazhagan M. ','Simple-Semi-Hydroponic-System-for-Single-Leaf-Propagation-of-Baliospermum-montanum-L.---An-Important-Medicinal-Plant-Karthik-S-57.pdf','',1,'In natural medicinal system, the usage of herbs plays a vital role in curing various ailments. Baliospermum montanum L., a regionally vulnerable important herb needs conservation efforts. Studies have been conducted on the propagation through stems, seeds, and micropropagation. The availability of enough plants becomes a major criterion for raising medicinal plants on a large scale. This study aimed to investigate the role of different root-inducing substances and their rooting potential in single-leaf cuttings. In the first experiment, different aged leaves (old, mature, and young) were tried, and the results indicated that the mature leaves had a positive impact on all plant growth regulator (PGRs) cuttings, especially the auxins that were tested. No response was observed for other compounds such as honey, sugar, or undiluted tender coconut water (TCW). Leaf health scores were recorded based on changes in leaf color. The second experiment targeted varying levels of PGRs on the rooting parameters of the mature leaves. In terms of root numbers, IAA (500 ppm) produces 12.5 roots per leaf cutting followed by 11.1 in IAA (1,000 ppm) and 11.1 in IAA (200 ppm). It is superior to IBA and has a minimal response in the NAA. The root length was highest in IBA (1,000 ppm) immersed leaves at 13.6 cm followed by 12.4 cm and 9.8 cm in IAA 500 ppm and IAA 200 ppm respectively. Rooted leaves were planted in wet soil for further root and shoot growth. A reasonable rooting rate in IAA alone was observed after 7 weeks in the soil. So, we minimized the starting material through this leaf propagation procedure.','Baliospermum montanum, advantageous root, single-leaf cutting, water, PGRs, auxin','B. montanum is a regionally vulnerable plant. Regeneration of this plant by all possible means is the need of the hour. Therefore, alternative approaches to the conventional system will be a useful technique to raise these plants in large numbers. Conservation of this vulnerable plant using an innovative leaf propagation technique is tried in the present study. An attempt is made in the present study to efficiently regenerate the entire plant from a single leaf which serves as a remarkable technique without sacrificing the plant. ','-','Karthik S., Basker S., Dheeban Shankar P., Saravanan K., Abdhul K., Ramya E.K., Sharmila S. and Anbazhagan M. (2023). Simple Semi-Hydroponic System for Single Leaf Propagation of Baliospermum montanum L. - An Important Medicinal Plant. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 15(6): 371-380.'),(6834,'159','Response of Sesame to varied Nitrogen and Phosphorus Levels under Irrigated conditions','Shweta, Anita Kumari, Kavita and Mehak Nagora','Response-of-Sesame-to-varied-Nitrogen-and-Phosphorus-Levels-under-Irrigated-conditions-Kavita-58.pdf','',1,'A field experiment was conducted on Sesame (Sesamum indicum) at Research Farm of Agronomy, CCSHAU, Hisar during Kharif, 2022. The trial was conducted in a randomized block design with four levels of nitrogen and four levels of phosphorus and replicated thrice. The four nitrogen levels were: 0, 15, 30, and 45 kg ha-1, and the four phosphorus levels were 0, 15, 20, and 25 kg ha-1. Nitrogen @ 45 kg ha-1 and phosphorus @ 20 kg ha-1 resulted in the maximum significant growth, physiology, yield, and yield attributes of the crop compared to the control. Treatment with nitrogen application @ 45 kg ha-1 increased dry matter per plant at harvest, CCM, and seed yield by 43.5, 37.8, and 17.8 percent respectively compared to the control. Among treatments of phosphorus levels, phosphorus application @ 20 kg/ha improved dry matter, seed yield, and biological yield by 23.8, 24.4, and 27.5 percent compared to the control.','Agronomic efficiency, yield, fertilizer levels','Nutrient management is crucial for the profuse growth and yield of a plant. The right proportion of different nutrients is important for the good performance of the cell’s biochemical and physiological functions. Nutrient requirements of a crop depend on whether the crop is grown rainfed or irrigated. Higher doses of nutrients than optimum result in detrimental effects on the growth of plants, thus reducing the yield and increasing the cost of cultivation. From the treatments of nitrogen and phosphorus levels in sesame grown under irrigated conditions, it can be concluded that nitrogen at the rate of 45 kg/ha and phosphorus @ 20 kg/ha was best to gain the highest yields.','-','Shweta, Anita Kumari, Kavita and Mehak Nagora (2023). Response of Sesame to varied Nitrogen and Phosphorus Levels under Irrigated conditions. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 15(6): 381-384.'),(6835,'159','Diversity Analysis in Okra [Abelmoschus esculentus (L.) Moench] Genotypes under Saline Situation','Rituparna Munshi, Pinaki Acharyya, Arup Chattopadhyay, Pritam Mishra, Biswanath Sahoo and Lopamudra Chakraborty ','Diversity-Analysis-in-Okra-[Abelmoschus-esculentus-(L.)-Moench]-Genotypes-under-Saline-Situation-Pinaki-Acharyya-59.pdf','',1,'Salinity is one of the major abiotic stresses that limits okra production as its deleterious effect persist throughout the plant life cycle. Okra is an important, high-value vegetable and it contains high nutritional value but yield of okra is low due to soil salinity. Extensive evaluation is essential to develop salt tolerant lines which can withstand the salinity stress. This study was conducted to assess the varietal performance and correlation and morphological diversity of pod yield and other related characters among twenty five okra genotypes under salinity stress. GCV and PCV values were high for fresh fruit yield per plant followed by number of fruits per plant and number of seeds per fruit. High heritability coupled with high genetic advance as percentage of mean was observed in fresh fruit yield per plant, number of fruits per plant, germination percentage and number of seeds per fruit. Germination percentage, plant height, number of leaves per plant, leaf length, fruit length, fruit diameter, fruit weight, number of fruits per plant, number of seeds per fruit and thousand seed weight exhibited significant positive correlation co-efficient with fresh fruit yield per plant. Considerable diversity within and between clusters were noted and Cluster III followed by Cluster V was deemed best for selecting diverse accessions. Cluster analysis and it’s inter and intra distances will help in narrowing down the selection of the genotypes suitable for breeding strategies with an eye on salinity tolerance The genotypes under these clusters hold great promise as parents in future hybridization program to obtain accessions tolerant to salinity.','Correlation, genetic advance, heritability, okra, path analysis, salinity','Good amount of variation for the set of characters under study among the utilized okra germplasm was observed which depicts that gene pool of okra towards salinity tolerance is available. On the basis of heritability coupled with genetic advance ample scope remains for selection of the promising types based on traits having high to moderate heritability as well having good presence of genetic advance. Correlation and path coefficient analysis will help us in simplified screening through weightage on traits which are having positive and significant correlation with yield. Cluster analysis and it’s inter and intra distances will help in narrowing down the selection of the genotypes suitable for breeding strategies with an eye on salinity tolerance. In our ensuing experiment, genotypes falling under cluster III (Shivani Hybrid and Japani Jhar) and cluster V (Mayna and Suhani) could be exploited in the near future keeping in mind their sustainability of morphological and yield related traits under saline conditions.','-','Rituparna Munshi, Pinaki Acharyya, Arup Chattopadhyay, Pritam Mishra, Biswanath Sahoo and Lopamudra Chakraborty (2023). Diversity Analysis in Okra [Abelmoschus esculentus (L.) Moench] Genotypes under Saline Situation. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 15(6): 385-394.'),(6836,'159','Studies on Heterosis and Inbreeding Depression for Yield and Yield Related Traits in Bottle gourd (Lagenaria siceraria (Mol.) Standl.)','B. Chandramouli, R.V.S.K. Reddy, Balakrishna B., M. Paratpara Rao and K. Umakrishna','Studies-on-Heterosis-and-Inbreeding-Depression-for-Yield-and-Yield-Related-Traits-in-Bottle-gourd-(Lagenaria-siceraria-(Mol.)-Standl.)-Balakrishna-B-60.pdf','',1,'Different fruit types preferred in different parts of India and development of these phenotypes is challenging in bottle gourd as complex inheritance pattern of fruit related characters. Hence, the present experiment in bottle gourd was conducted during kharif, 2020 at College of Horticulture, Venkataramannagudem, Dr. YSR Horticultural University, Andhra Pradesh, India. Traits, node number at which first male flower appeared, node number at which first female flower appeared, fruit diameter and vitamin-C content recorded significant and negative average and better parent heterosis. Average heterosis and heterobeltiosis in favourable direction was observed for fruit length, fruit yield/vine, fruit yield/plot, fruit yield/hectare, number of seeds per fruit and total sugar content. Economically important traits like fruit yield per vine and fruit yield per plot exhibited negative heterosis and inbreeding depression in Pusa Naveen × Pusa Santhusti. This cross can be handled through pedigree method of plant breeding for development of pureline varieties in bottle gourd.','Bottle gourd, F2 populations, Heterosis, Inbreeding depression, Yield traits','The present investigation revealed that cross combinations viz., Pusa Sandesh × Arka Bahar and Pusa Naveen × Local Round are promising for increasing fruit yield and its contributing attributes. The hybrid, Pusa Sandesh × Punjab Bahar was found superior for earliness for exploitation of heterosis. Significant heterosis coupled with significant inbreeding depression was observed for most of the traits in majority of the cross combinations indicate non-additive gene action in the inheritance of these traits. Hence, methods like recurrent selection, heterosis breeding and pure line selection can be used for genetic improvement of bottle gourd.','-','B. Chandramouli, R.V.S.K. Reddy, Balakrishna B., M. Paratpara Rao and K. Umakrishna (2023). Studies on Heterosis and Inbreeding Depression for Yield and Yield Related Traits in Bottle gourd (Lagenaria siceraria (Mol.) Standl.). Biological Forum – An International Journal, 15(6): 395-398.'),(6837,'159','Influence of Physico-chemical Parameters on Mycoflora of Fish Pond in Bhadra Reservoir Project at Shivamogga district, Karnataka, India',' Prapthi U.B., Sowmya, H.V., Dhananjaya, S.G., Akarsh S., Vijaya Kumara and Thippeswamy Basaiah ','Influence-of-Physico-chemical-Parameters-on-Mycoflora-of-Fish-Pond-in-Bhadra-Reservoir-Project-at-Shivamogga-district,-Karnataka,-India-Thippeswamy-Basaiah-61.pdf','',1,'Physico-chemical parameters play a key role in determining the diversity and occurrence of fungal species in a freshwater ecosystem. The present work aimed to study the influence of some Physico-chemical parameters on fungal distribution, seasonally from freshwater carp ponds in the Bhadra reservoir project fish pond, Shivamogga, Karnataka, which is one of the main fish seed production farms. A study of eleven different parameters was carried out in three different seasons. The water temperature (18.75±1.57 to 28.45±3.29oC), atmospheric air temperature (20.60±0.36 to 31.83±0.58oC), pH (7.23±0.37 to 8.09±0.33), watercolor (light green-light brown), total dissolved solids (182.67±2.08 to 291.00±1.00 mg/L), dissolved oxygen (4.45±0.44 to 8.74±0.23 mg/L), biochemical oxygen demand (1.62±0.01 to 3.22±0.03 mg/L), carbon dioxide (1.07±0.06 to 8.60±0.35 mg/L), chloride (15.57±0.09 to 30.27±0.23 mg/L), alkalinity (0.67±1.15 to 46.33±0.58 mg/L), hardness (47.07±0.12 to193.00±1.73 mg/L), nitrate (40.00±0.00 to 51.00±1.00 mg/L) and ammonia (0.15±0.09 to 0.30±0.00 mg/L). The result showed that the maximum growth of fungal species in all fishes in the winter season may be due to low temperatures, neutral pH, high nutrient status (high nitrate), and large amounts of oxidizable organic matter (high total dissolved solids). Growth in rainy seasons may be due to the availability of high rainfall and surface run-off along with the nutrients and whereas a decrease in fungal species during summer may be due to high water temperatures and low nutrient status. The main challenge laid in identifying the main physico-chemical parameter which is confined to the aquatic ecosystems as the maximum level may become toxic to fishes and change their enzyme activities, oxidative stress response, and respiratory activities. Analytical measurement of water improves the production and survivability of fish.','Indian major carps, Bhadra reservoir project, Physico-chemical parameters, spawns','The present study described the seasonal variations of Physico-chemical parameters and their influences on the growth of fungal species. The obtained Physico-chemical parameter was correlated with the limit of the World Health Organisation (WHO) standard. By the result of analytical research, it can be concluded that manuring the pond, continuous supply of nutrients, and the normal level of rain (floods) often create abrupt changes in water quality parameters such as temperature, pH, total dissolved solids, dissolved oxygen, nitrate, and ammonia causing infectious disease (saprolegniasis) in fishes ultimately leading to an economic loss of carp production. The periodical measurement of physico-chemical parameters of water helps in correcting the abnormalities in each fish pond by training the farmers and aquaculture extension workers to adopt new techniques to respond effectively to reduce the risk of flood. So that ponds can be used to increase the production and survivability of fish. ','-','Prapthi U.B., Sowmya, H.V., Dhananjaya, S.G., Akarsh S., Vijaya Kumara and Thippeswamy Basaiah (2023). Influence of Physico-chemical Parameters on Mycoflora of Fish Pond in Bhadra Reservoir Project at Shivamogga district, Karnataka, India. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 15(6): 399-407.'),(6838,'159','Fetal Kidney Length as an useful Added Parameter for the Better Prediction of Gestational Age','G. Yuvabalakumaran, G. Hamsini Devi, R.M. Sidhesh, R. Sathiyanarayanan and Anupritha S.','Fetal-Kidney-Length-as-an-useful-Added-Parameter-for-the-Better-Prediction-of-Gestational-Age-G-Yuvabalakumaran-62.pdf','',1,'The accuracy of traditional biometric parameters decreases with advancing gestational age. Hence accurate dating of pregnancies in the late second or third trimester remains a challenge. Our study was carried out to overcome this challenge, by measuring the fetal kidney length from the late second trimester and using it as a tool for the assessment of gestational age. The present study was done with the objective of determining the correlation between fetal kidney length and other biometric parameters such as BPD, HC, FL, AC derived gestational age with the gestational age derived from last menstrual period (LMP). This was prospective study carried out between February 2021 and December 2022 among 200 well dated pregnant women with no associated risk factors. Pearson correlation test was applied. A P value of less than 0.05 was considered significant. Strong positive correlation also existed between gestational age predicted by fetal kidney length and biparietal diameter in the second (0.823) and the third trimester (0.720), respectively. The strong positive correlation also found between gestational age predicted by foetal kidney length and head circumference during the second (0.807) and third trimester (0.718). The AC values and FK GA also exhibited a strong positive correlation at the second (0.797) and the third trimester (0.774). The femur length and FK GA exhibited a strong positive correlation at the second trimester (0.802) and a moderate positive correlation at the third trimester (0.491). A strong positive correlation was found to be present between FK GA and BPD (0.953), HC (0.948), AC (0.954) and FL (0.887). FKL can be used as a reliable and additional parameter for determination of gestational age.','Fetal kidney length, biparietal diameter, head circumference, gestational age, ultrasonogram, femur length','FKL positively correlated with BPD, HC, AC and FL. Normogram of the Fetal Kidney Length shows that there is a linear relationship between the gestational age and the fetal kidney length. FKL can be used as a reliable and additional parameter for determination of gestational age.','-','G. Yuvabalakumaran, G. Hamsini Devi, R.M. Sidhesh, R. Sathiyanarayanan and Anupritha S. (2023). Fetal Kidney Length as an useful Added Parameter for the Better Prediction of Gestational Age. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 15(6): 408-413.'),(6839,'159','Compositae of Chitradurga District, Karnataka: A Checklist and Key','Kavitha Sagar and Shivashankar P.N.','Compositae-of-Chitradurga-District,-Karnataka-A-Checklist-and-Key-Kavitha-Sagar-63.pdf','',1,'Amongst the flowering plants, Compositae (Asteraceae) is the biggest family which has enormous number of medicinally important, essential oil yielding, ornamental plants, landscapers etc. As per literature survey it was discovered that there are no documented reports on compositae of Chitradurga district, in order to identify and classify the plants dichotomous key plays a major role which make identification of plants easier and faster. Chitradurga district in Karnataka was selected to undergo detailed locality specific survey in order to do Taxonomic survey of all the plant species belonging to the family Asteraceae. The study was carried out during 2021-2023. The present investigation revealed that 96 species are present distributed under 70 genera. Of which Blumea is dominant genera with 8 species; followed by Launaea with 4 species, Acilepis, Acmella, Sonchus each with 3 species, and other genera having 1 or 2 species. A detailed dichotomous key is provided for easy identification and systematic classification of all the species of Compositae of Chitradurga. The present report serves as handbook for identification of the compositae of Chitradurga district for taxonomists, researchers, students, agricultural scientists.','Dichotomous key, Compositae, Chitradurga, Karnataka, Acmella','The present report revealed 96 species under 70 genera with their morphological description, taxonomical status, phenology and dichotomous key for each genera and species. This data from collected plants of compositae of Chitradurga district, form Karnataka state, India can act as a ready reckoner for identification, classification, conservation strategies, utilization of bright colored plants as ornamental for landscaping, Flowerbed, Container Planting, Fencing and borders etc. ','-','Kavitha Sagar and Shivashankar P.N. (2023). Compositae of Chitradurga District, Karnataka: A Checklist and Key. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 15(6): 414-425.'),(6840,'159','Evaluation of Uterine Masses using USG and MRI – with HPE Correlation','Yuvabalakumaran G., Anupritha S., Sidhesh R.M., Sathiyanarayanan R. and Srikar B.','Evaluation of Uterine Masses using USG and MRI – with HPE Correlation-Yuvabalakumaran G-64.pdf','',1,'Ultrasonography and MRI were two extensively utilised for diagnosing uterine mass lesions in these days and they are also becoming widely available. The objective was to find out the diagnostic ability of ultrasonography and MRI for various uterine mass lesions in comparison to HPE. The present study was cross-sectional study carried out in the department of radiodiagnosis in tertiary care hospital between February 2021 and April 2022. All the participants who came with symptoms of uterine mass lesions during the study period were included into the study. A pretested semi structured proforma was used to record the data. The sensitivity, specificity, positive predictive value, negative predictive value and diagnostic accuracy for each parameter was calculated. 95% confidence interval for all the diagnostic parameters were estimated. The sensitivity for diagnosing adenomyosis for TA USG, TV ISG and MRI were 35.7%, 50% and 78.5%, respectively. The specificity was 66.6%, 75% and 88.8% for the three. The diagnostic accuracy was higher for MRI (86%) followed by TV USG (68%) and TA USG (58%). The sensitivity was 100% for MRI, 90% for TV USG and 75% for TA USG. The specificity for MRI, TV USG and TA USG were 93.3%, 83.3% and 80%, respectively. The diagnostic accuracy of MRI was 96%, TV USG was 86% and TA USG was 78%. The sensitivity for diagnosing tumour mass for TV USG and MRI were 69.2% and 84.6%, respectively. The specificity was 91.8% and 86.4% for MRI and transvaginal USG, respectively. The diagnostic accuracy for MRI was 90% while that of TV USG was 82%. MRI was found to be more accurate tool for diagnosing uterine mass lesions followed by transvaginal USG and transabdominal USG.','Uterine mass lesions, adenomyosis, fibroids, Transvaginal USG, transabdominal USG, MRI, tumour mass','MRI was found to be more accurate tool for diagnosing uterine mass lesions followed by transvaginal USG and transabdominal USG. For certain lesions like fibroids, the sensitivity was 100% and diagnostic accuracy was 96%. The diagnostic accuracy for tumour mass was 90% and that of adenomyosis was 86% in case of MRI.','-','Yuvabalakumaran G., Anupritha S., Sidhesh R.M., Sathiyanarayanan R. and Srikar B. (2023). Evaluation of Uterine Masses using USG and MRI – with HPE Correlation. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 15(6): 426-431.'),(6841,'159','Efficacy of different Chemicals and Neem Products against Fall Army worm, [Spodoptera frugiperda (J. E. Smith)] in Maize (Zea mays L.)','Chekuri Nagesh and Anoorag Rajnikant Tayde','Efficacy-of--different-Chemicals-and-Neem-Products-against-Fall-Army-worm,-[Spodoptera-frugiperda-(J.-E.-Smith)]-in-Maize-(Zea-mays-L.)-Chekuri-Nagesh-65.pdf','',1,'The experiment was conducted at the research plot of the Department of Entomology at Central Research Farm, Sam Higginbottom University of Agriculture Technology and Sciences, Prayagraj during the Rabi season of 2022-2023. The experiment was laid out in a Randomized Block Design (RBD) with three replication, Seven treatments and untreated control were evaluated against, Spodoptera frugiperda i.e., T1 Chlorantraniliprole 18.5% SC@ 0.4ml/lit, T2 Emamectin benzoate 5% SG @0.5g/lit, T3Spinetoram 11.7% SC @0.9ml/lit, T4 Flubendiamide 39.35% SC @0.24ml/lit, T5 Novaluron 10%EC@1.0ml/lit, T6 Neem oil 2% @ 20ml/lit, T7 NSKE 5%@50ml/lit, and Control. The results on Spodoptera frugiperda larvae population after the first and second spray proved that all of the treatments were significantly superior to the control. Among the all treatments, Spinetoram 11.7% SC (3.77), (2.17) was recorded minimum larval population of Spodoptera frugiperda after both sprays followed by, Chlorantraniliprole 18.5% SC (3.95), (2.44), and maximum larval population was recorded in Neem oil @2% (4.86), (3.31), followed by NSKE @ 5% (5.06), (3.51), was found to be least effective but superior over the control. While, the highest yield was obtained from the treatment Spinetoram 11.7%SC (40.10 q/ha) as well as C: B ratio (1:1.83), followed by Chlorantraniliprole 18.5% SC (33.03q/ha), (1:1.74), Emamectin benzoate 5% SG (30.01q/ha), (1:1.73), and Neem oil @ 2% (27.32 q/ha), (1:1.56) respectively, while the lowest grain yield of (26.66 q/ha), (1:1.53) was observed in plot treated with NSKE @5% and the untreated control plot resulted least grain yield (19.49 q/ha), (1:1.16) in comparison to plots treated with different chemicals and neem products. Now a days the fall armyworm was very serious challenging pest in the world.','Chemicals, Cost Benefit ratio, Efficacy, Maize, Neem products, Spodoptera frugiperda','From the present investigation, it could be concluded that, among the all treatments Spinetoram 11.7% SC shown most effective in controlling larval population of fall armyworm. Followed by Chlorantraniliprole 18.5% SC and the both insecticides showed best results controlling larval population, followed by Emamectin benzoate 5% SG, Flubendiamide 39.35% SC, Novaluron 10% EC, Neem oil @2% and NSKE @5%. Among the treatments studied Spinetoram 11.7% SC gave the highest yield and cost benefit ratio(40.10 q/ha), (1:1.83), which was followed by Chlorantraniliprole @18.5% SC (33.03 q/ha), (1:1.74), Emamectin benzoate@5% SG (30.01 q/ha), (1:1.73), Flubendiamide @ 39.35% SC (29.90 q/ha),(1:1.61), Novaluron @ 1.0% EC (28.03 q/ha), (1:1.57), and Neem oil @2% (27.32 q/ha), (1:1.56), NSKE @5% (26.66 q/ha), (1:1.53) in field conditions. Respectively as such more trails are required in future to validate the finding.','-','Chekuri Nagesh and Anoorag Rajnikant Tayde (2023). Efficacy of different Chemicals and Neem Products against Fall Army worm, [Spodoptera frugiperda (J. E. Smith)] in Maize (Zea mays L.). Biological Forum – An International Journal, 15(6): 432-436.'),(6842,'159','Assessment and Evaluation of Patient\'s Practice, Perception and Awareness of Dental Care among Chennai Population: A Cross-sectional Study','Christeffi Mabel R., Jagannatha G.V., Priyanka G., Vincy Preetha and Madhubala S.','Assessment-and-Evaluation-of-Patients-Practice,-Perception-and-Awareness-of-Dental-Care-among-Chennai-Population-A-Cross-sectional-Study-Priyanka-G-66.pdf','',1,'In the past, there has been a lack of public recognition of the decline in oral health, widespread acceptance of diseased mouths, broad occurrence of oral disorders, and a lack of affordable oral health-care services. The aim of the study was to assess and evaluate the practice, perception, knowledge, and awareness on dental care amongst patients reporting to Chettinad Dental College and Research Institute, Chennai which in turn contributes to oral health awareness education and understanding the existing scenario of oral health knowledge. This study seeks to analyse patients’ attitude towards dental care, both optimistically and critically. This was a cross-sectional study which involved completion of a pretested, validated structured questionnaire in both English and vernacular language by the 278 participants who attended Chettinad Dental College and Research Institute. The survey consisted of 17 closed-ended questions comprised of practice, perception and awareness-based questions.\r\nAmong all the 278 study participants, only 25% of them believed that cleaning teeth at least twice a day, replacing the toothbrush once in three months, using mouth rinse and visiting the dentist once in six months was necessary. Most of the participants agreed that their dental problems had reduced due to the periodic dental visit, periodic scaling had improved their oral health, oral health care is more important as that of the general health care and also general health can be compromised due to dental diseases. About 48.6% of the participants did not have any concern regarding the radiographic exposure and 34.9% of them disagreed that dental pain can be treated by medications itself. Majority of the participants were not aware of variety of dental treatments available, dental radiographs and recent advancements in dentistry.\r\nOur study results showed that dental health perception among the participants was better compared to dental practice and awareness. Henceforth, the introduction of educational interventions should enhance the dental care literacy among the general population.\r\n','Oral health awareness, oral hygiene practices, dental treatment, health education','The findings of this current study highlight that dental health perception among the study population is better whereas the awareness and practices are poor and needs to be improved. According to this, public knowledge of broad systemic disorders is much more widespread than that of general dental health care. Additionally, the media has a big impact on how the general public views systemic health care, which can be strengthened to raise awareness of the need for dental care as well. Health education attempts to improve awareness thereby change behaviours by altering the individual’s oral health practice. Hence, periodic comprehensive oral healthcare programs should be conducted by the professionals for the general population targeting community and schools. To enhance dental practices and raise awareness of the need to maintain acceptable oral health standards, well-structured dental health education programmes must be initiated by the government in rural as well as urban developed and implemented on a regular basis.','-','Christeffi Mabel R., Jagannatha G.V., Priyanka G., Vincy Preetha and Madhubala S. (2023). Assessment and Evaluation of Patient\'s Practice, Perception and Awareness of Dental Care among Chennai Population: A Cross-sectional Study. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 15(6): 437-441.'),(6843,'159','Generation- wise Comparative Biology of Pulse Beetle, Callosobruchus maculatus on different Stored Pulses','Karthik R., Deka, M.K., Sravani Dumala and Prince Jayasimha Pamala','Generation-wise-Comparative-Biology-of-Pulse-Beetle,-Callosobruchus-maculatus-on-different-Stored-Pulses-Karthik-R-67.pdf','',1,'Pulse beetle, Callosobruchus maculatus is a major storage pest of various pulses. The studies on biology of C. maculatus on different pulses with emphasis on different generation provide more information for better management practices. So, in this study, generation-wise comparative biology of C. maculatus in different pulses such as cowpea, green gram, black gram, chickpea, soybean and pea were evaluated. The results revealed that, in a year, C. maculatus completed eight generations in cowpea, green gram and pea, seven generations on black gram and six generations in chickpea and soybean. The pre oviposition period, post oviposition period and incubation period of C. maculatus on six different pulses showed no significant difference which was in the range of 6.3 to 6.7 hours, 1.9 to 2.1 days and 3.1 to 3.3 days, respectively. The longest oviposition period, adult longevity of male and female was recorded ongreen gram which was 6.6 days, 8.8 days and 9.3 days, respectively while the shortest oviposition period, adult longevity of male and female was recorded on chickpea which was 5.0 days, 7.2 days and 7.6 days, respectively. The longest developmental period was recorded on chickpea (37.2 days) while the shortest developmental period was recorded on green gram (26.2 days). In addition to biological parameters, the ovipositional preference of pulse beetle was also studied. In the choice test, the maximum ovipositional preference of C. maculatus was recorded on green gram (19.25 % eggs) while the minimum ovipositional preference was recorded on chickpea (7.00 % eggs). In the no choice test also, the maximum ovipositional preference was recorded on green gram (87.00 % eggs) while minimum ovipositional preference was recorded on chickpea (74.00 % eggs).','Pulses, pulse Beetle, Callosobruchus maculatus, biology, oviposition, preference','Our study reveals the generation wise biology of C. maculatus in different pulses which is an incipient to better understand the biology of pulse beetle. The life cycle of pulse beetle was quicker in green gram when compared to other pulses. Similarly, the green gram was also found to be the most preferred pulses by C. maculatus. As chickpea was found to be the least preferred pulses, it can be concluded that chickpea is resistant to oviposition by C. maculatus while green gram is more susceptible to its oviposition.','-','Karthik R., Deka, M.K., Sravani Dumala and Prince Jayasimha Pamala (2023). Generation- wise Comparative Biology of Pulse Beetle, Callosobruchus maculatus on different Stored Pulses. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 15(6): 442-449.'),(6844,'159','Phytochemistry, Pharmacological Activities, Nanoparticles Synthesis, Commercial Exploration and Valorization of Endangered Medicinal Plant Embelia ribes Burm.: A Review','Amilia Nongbet, Mohammad Zaki Shamim and Bibhu Prasad Panda','Phytochemistry,-Pharmacological-Activities,-Nanoparticles-Synthesis,-Commercial-Exploration-and-Valorization-of-Endangered-Medicinal-Plant-Embeliaribes-Burm.-A-Review-Amilia-Nongbet-68.pdf','',1,'E. ribes Burm. is a medicinally important woody climber belonging to the family Myrcinaceae. It is also known as \"Vidanga\" and has been used for various medicinal purposes since ancient times. It has always been a significant part of history in the ayurvedic system of medicine in various forms like churna, asava, aristha, lauha, and taila. It has been extensively used as a curative agent for stomach aches, leprosy, nervous debility, dyspepsia, flatulence, colic tumors, asthma, fever, ascaris, infestation, and skin diseases. The main chemical constituent of E. ribes is \"Embelin,\" and other chemical constituents are volatile oils, tannins, christembine, resinol, embeliol, embelinol, quercitol, vilangin, potassium embelate, aryl substituted benzoxadiazine, 5-O-ethylembelin, 5-O-methylembelin (derivatives), 2-hydroxy-5-substituted-3-undecylcyclohexa-2,5-diene-1,4-diones (derivatives), and phenolic acids like caffeic acid. Among the many promising pharmacological effects demonstrated by the essential oils, extracts, and isolated chemical constituents were those of antioxidant, wound healing, antidiabetic, central nervous system (CNS) disease, antiobesity, antibacterial, antiviral, cardioprotective, antifungal, and antifertility. Various applications of E. ribes are reported, as well as its phytochemical and phytochemical composition, pharmacological activities, and nanoparticle fabrication. More thorough, state-of-the-art preclinical research is needed to learn about its efficacy and safety profileapproaches are needed to examine the efficacy and safety profile of E. ribes as itmay be a good candidate for the introduction of novel drugs because of their potential utility in both traditional and contemporary medical settings. Our primary goal is to describe the current state of knowledge concerning the historical use, phytochemistry, and pharmacology of E. ribes. Further, the scientific connotation of traditional uses has been highlighted, and the value and importance of considering both modern therapeutically known actions and traditional uses in folk medicine have been described, through research into the therapeutic potential of essential oils/extracts and isolated compounds obtained from E. ribes, correlated with their antioxidant potential. This article provides a concise overview of the studies that have been conducted on the pharmacological properties and potential uses of the phytochemical substances extracted from E. ribes plants.','Embelia, phytochemicals, pharmacology, nanotechnology, valorization','According to the current medical literature, E. ribes has been used as a traditional folk medicine in several Asian countries and cultures (India, Sri Lanka, Malaya, Singapore, and China) to treat digestive, carminative, laxative, anti-helminthic, and other disorders. E. ribes contain embelin and other vital constituents such as tannins, christembine, resinol, embeliol, embelinol, quercitol, vilangin, and potassium embelate, which have many pharmacological properties. According to the study results, the plants need to be treated with care to prevent any unwanted side effects, and those other potential uses need to be explored. This review provides insight into the development of many phytochemical compounds in E. ribes, which can play an important role in the treatment of various diseases. However, medicinal research has been hampered in its efforts to find an efficient delivery method for these compounds. Persistent efforts are required to further understand their efficacy, their structural activity, and their bioavailability. The available data suggest that embelin may one day be used to treat a wide variety of diseases and conditions, including cancer. While embelin has gained significance, more extensive pharmacological studies with animal models and subsequent clinical trials are needed to establish embelin\'s use as a conventional therapeutic agent alone or in combination.','-','Amilia Nongbet, Mohammad Zaki Shamim, Bibhu Prasad Panda (2023). Phytochemistry, Pharmacological Activities, Nanoparticles Synthesis, Commercial Exploration and Valorization of Endangered Medicinal Plant Embelia ribes Burm.: A Review. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 15(6): 450-460.'),(6845,'159','Moringa oleifera: A Review on Nutritive properties of Leaves and its Application on Dairy Products','Saranya V., Perasiriyan V., Rita Narayanan, Mangala Gowri A. and Sujatha G.','Moringa-oleifera-A-Review-on-Nutritive-properties-of-Leaves-and-its-Application-on-Dairy-Products-Perasiriyan-V-69.pdf','',1,'Moringa oleifera is a multi-purpose plant, which is highly rich in essential amino acids, vitamins, proteins, antioxidants, etc. It has an extensive range of bioactive components including phenolics and flavonoids, alkaloids, glucosinolates, terpenoids, isothiocyanates, etc. The phytochemicals and secondary metabolites present in M. oleifera leaves, have a positive effect on antioxidant properties. The recent increase in consumer interest in health foods has created new opportunities for plant products containing bioactive components in various food compositions. Thus, incorporating M. oleifera leaves in dairy products may improve the nutritional value of the products, and also it may help in combating malnutrition in children and adults. This paper demonstrates an overview of recent advancements in discovering M. oleifera leaves nutritional value to the food industry and describing information on its application in dairy products.','Moringa oleifera, bioactive components, nutritional value, phytochemicals, and secondary metabolites','In this review, recently published scientific research supports the potential of Moringa oleifera as a component in various dairy matrices. It has been incorporated in the majority of cases as dry leaf powder in dairy products. In such circumstances, all of the authors reported an improvement in the nutritional profile of the finished product. Most authors agree that extremely tiny amounts (1-2%) have an effect on color, texture, and flavor alterations in dairy products.','-','Saranya V., Perasiriyan V., Rita Narayanan, Mangala Gowri A. and Sujatha G. (2023). Moringa oleifera: A Review on Nutritive properties of Leaves and its Application on Dairy Products. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 15(6): 461-466.'),(6846,'159','Nematicidal potential of Plant extracts against the Root Knot Nematode, Meloidogyne incognita','Shilpy Shakya','Nematicidal-potential-of-Plant-extracts-against-the-Root-Knot-Nematode,-Meloidogyne-incognita-Shilpy-Shakya-70.pdf','',1,'Plant parasitic nematodes (PPN) are the most effective parasites in nature causing enormous crop yield loss. Due to their ability to excel in a wide variety of the host plants and our lack of knowledge about the biology of these plant parasites, there are limited ways to control them. From among various groups of PPN, endo-parasitic nematodes, Meloidogyne sps., commonly known as root-knot nematodes, are the most damaging one and also difficult to control. Because of the accessibility of the whole genome sequences of a few Meloidogyne species, biotechnological interferences are being used to learn the secrets of their unrestricted survival. The use of chemicals to control these nematodes has been widely documented. The environmental toxicity of these known compounds and the limitations on the use of nematicides in deterrence of nematodes necessitates the screening and exploration of eco-friendly methods. The current study was carried out to assess the nematotoxic potential of leaf extracts from red spiderling (Boerhavia diffusa), atrilal (Peristrophe bicalyculata), chaff-flower (Achyranthes aspera), castor oil plant (Ricinus communis) and pigweed (Anagallis arvensis). The usage of the aqueous extracts hindered the ability of the nematode eggs to hatch, the mobility of second stage juveniles (J2), and the feasibility of the J2. The eggs were exposed to numerous concentrations of the certain extracts for periods ranging from 24 hours to 6 days. The aqueous extracts had an impact on nematode juvenile mortality and egg hatching. Less egg hatching and increased nematode juvenile mortality indicate that leaves of the selected plant possess anti-nematode potential. The results of the study reveal the effectiveness of the natural products and could possibly result in the development of ecologically friendly management strategies for the PPNs.','Root-knot nematode, juvenile mortality, management, green approach.','The main source of global food supply comes from agricultural products. Loss of crop yield results in a threat to food security, increased food shortage, malnutrition and starvation. It is, therefore, necessary to produce ample amount of good quality and nutritious food crops. Among other factors, plant parasitic nematodes are a major group that hinder the crop yield. Chemical nematicides are prohibited in several nations due to their environmental harm. In an effort to find alternative control mechanisms, a variety of solutions, from waste materials to cutting-edge molecular procedures, have been researched. Further characterisation of the chemical moieties in the selected leaf extract is necessary for the large-scale synthesis of bioactive compounds. It is safe to say that plant extracts offer an efficient and reasonably cost source for reducing the threat of RKN in fields based on the findings of this screening of anti-nematode capabilities in five selected plants. This experiment shows that Ricinus, followed by Peristrophe, Anagallis, Achyranthes and Boerhavia, has the strongest anti-nematode power against root-knot nematode. Root-knot nematode management is made simple with plant-based remedies. A list of plants that are naturally anti-nematode requires significant research involving a larger variety of plants and numerous nematode species (depending on their feeding habits). The products that contain Ricinus as a main component have shown to be the most reliable.','-','Shilpy Shakya (2023). Nematicidal potential of Plant extracts against the Root Knot Nematode, Meloidogyne incognita. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 15(6): 467-473.'),(6847,'150','Productivity of Tomato (Lycopersicon esculentum Mill.) as influenced by Plant Growth Regulators under Protected conditions','Kumar Virendra, Rajiv, Singh Y.K., Singh Lokendra and Verma Arun Kumar','Productivity-of-Tomato-(Lycopersicon-esculentum-Mill.)-as-influenced-by-Plant-Growth-Regulators-under-Protected-conditions-Virendra-Kumar-117.pdf','',1,'Protected cultivation offers several advantages to produce vegetables of high quality and yields, but tomato crop often faces problems of poor fruit setting due to poor or negligible release of pollens for pollination and fertilization thereby affecting fruit set and ultimately the yield. Plant growth regulators play an important role in increasing the growth, yield and quality of the produce if applied in suitable forms and at appropriate concentrations. The field experiment was conducted at Vegetable Research Farm, Kalyanpur of Chandra Shekhar Azad University of Agriculture and Technology, Kanpur, India during two consecutive rabi seasons of 2019-20 and 2020-21, to find out the effect of PGRs and their spray schedules on tomato. The experiment was laid out in Factorial Randomized Block Design (FRBD) with 27 treatment combinations and replicated thrice under insect proof net house. The experiment comprised nine levels of plant growth regulators viz., GA3 @ 50 ppm, GA3 @ 75 ppm, GA3 @ 100 ppm, NAA @ 20 ppm, NAA @ 30 ppm, NAA @ 40 ppm, 4-CPA @ 20 ppm, 4-CPA @ 30 ppm and 4-CPA @ 40 ppm and three spray schedules viz., at 30 and 45 DAT, at 30, 45 and 60 DAT and at 30, 45, 60 and 75 DAT. The tomato hybrid ‘NS- 4266’ was used in experiment. Results of the experiment revealed that the application of GA3 @ 75 ppm recorded significantly highest no. of fruit clusters per plant (13.287 and 13.936), no. of fruits per cluster (13.300 and 14.211), no. of fruits per plant (76.744 and 77.480), average fruit weight (88.924 and 88.899 g), equatorial diameter of fruits (7.110 and 7.063 cm), polar diameter of fruits (6.234 and 6.192 cm), fruit yield per plant (12.223 and 13.208 kg), fruit yield per 1000m2 (258.470 and 262.413 q) during both the years. In case of spray schedules, the plants were sprayed at 30, 45, 60 and 75 days after transplanting (DAT) produced significantly highest values of all the yield attributing traits. Based on mean values of two years study, the significantly highest fruit yield of 262.735 q/1000m2was observed with the treatment combination of application of GA3 @ 75 ppm and spray schedule of 30, 45, 60 and 75 days after transplanting (DAT). Hence, it may be recommended for higher productivity from tomato crop under protected conditions.','Protected cultivation, PGRs, Productivity, Spray schedule and Tomato','From the present findings, it can be inferred that the of foliar application of GA3 @ 75 ppm at 30, 45, 60 and 75 days after transplanting (DAT)was found suitable for realizing optimum fruit yield of tomato under insect proof net house. Hence, it may be recommended for higher productivity from tomato crop under protected conditions in central plain zone of Uttar Pradesh.','-','Kumar Virendra, Rajiv, Singh Y.K., Singh Lokendra and Verma Arun Kumar (2023). Productivity of Tomato (Lycopersicon esculentum Mill.) as influenced by Plant Growth Regulators under Protected conditions. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 15(3): 749-753.'),(6848,'159','Assessment of Genetic variability in Segregating Generations of Rice (Oryza sativa L.) under Saline Soil conditions','S. Reshma, K. Sumalini, G. Shiva Prasad and D. Srinivas Chary','Assessment-of-Genetic-variability-in-Segregating-Generations-of-Rice-(Oryza-sativa-L.)-under-Saline-Soil-conditions-K.-Sumalini-71.pdf','',1,'Rice holds a crucial position in Indian agriculture and is cultivated in a wide range of environments and affected by various abiotic stresses such as salinity, alkalinity, drought, and cold. This research aims to explore the genetic diversity and potential adaptations of rice varieties to saline soil, which is critical for developing improved cultivars with enhanced salt tolerance. Two F2 populations i.e., KPS-10642 × RNR-11718 (cross 1) and KPS-10642 × CSR-27(cross 2) were evaluated at ARS, Kampasagar during rabi 2021-22 to assess the extent and nature of variability, heritability, and genetic advancement in rice for grain yield and its components under saline soil conditions. Sufficient amount of variation was observed in the two F2 segregating populations for yield and its components. Number of tillers per plant, number of productive tillers per plant in cross 1, and number of filled grains per panicle and sterility percentage in both the crosses expressed high GCV and PCV indicating high level of variability. Furthermore, traits viz., number of filled grains per panicle and sterility percentage in both the crosses and grain yield per plant in cross 1 exhibited high values of heritability and genetic advance as a per cent of mean indicating the role of additive gene action in governing these traits and effectiveness of simple selection. Consequently, these specific traits that contribute to grain yield under saline soil conditions hold promise for future utilization in rice breeding programs.','Rice, genetic variability, heritability, genetic advance, salinity','From the present study, it was revealed that there was an ample amount of genetic variability in the two F2 populations for the traits viz., number of filled grains per panicle, sterility percentage and grain yield per plant with high heritability coupled with genetic advance as per cent of mean and are the important yield influencing traits in specific crosses of rice under saline soil conditions. Hence, selection of these traits could enhance the grain yield in rice under such conditions. Therefore, it would be advantageous to prioritize these traits when designing crop improvement programs.','-','S. Reshma, K. Sumalini, G. Shiva Prasad and D. Srinivas Chary (2023). Assessment of Genetic variability in Segregating Generations of Rice (Oryza sativa L.) under Saline Soil conditions. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 15(6): 474-479.'),(6849,'159','Spathulenol and Farnesol as Potential Anti-inflammatory Sesquiterpenoid Molecules from leaves of Acronychia pedunculata','J. Achyutha Devi','Spathulenol-and-Farnesol-as-Potential-Anti-inflammatory-Sesquiterpenoid-Molecules-from-leaves-of-Acronychia-pedunculata-J-Achyutha-Devi-72.pdf','',1,'It is well known that various NSAID drugs reduces pain and inflammation through blockage of metabolism of arachidonic acid through lipoxygenase and cyclooxygenase, thereby reducing the production of prostaglandin and help in the treatment of inflammatory disorders. However, there are many side effects associated upon chronic administration of these NSAIDS. Therefore, medicinal plants provide an alternative to these as bioactive compounds present in them have excellent anti-inflammatory potential with minimal side effects. The aim of the present study was to evaluate the anti-inflammatory potential of sesquiterpenes namely spathulenol and farnesol from leaves of Acronychia pedunculata. The in vitro anti-inflammatory activity of essential oil and isolated sesquiterpenes was evaluated by hemolysis inhibition, proteinase inhibition, protein denaturation inhibition, cyclooxygenase and lipoxygenase inhibition. Both spathulenol and farnesol exhibited hemolysis inhibition of 17.11–29.92%, inhibition of protein denaturation of 46.2–71.4%, proteinase inhibition of 32.6–43.9%, cyclooxygenase inhibition of 29.6-43.4% and lipoxygenase inhibition of 26.3–41.2%. Lineweaver-Burk plots were established with the obtained data for the determination of Vmax and Km for lipoxygenase and cyclooxygenase enzymes and also to unravel the mechanism of inhibition. The kinetic parameters studies showed that both the sesquiterpene molecules lowered the Vmax and Km at all the tested concentrations. The results reveal that the isolated sesquiterpenes possess excellent anti-inflammatory activity and further metabolic profiling is needed for production of potential lead compounds for the treatment of inflammatory diseases.','Acronychia pedunculata, sesquiterpenes, anti-inflammatory activity, LOX, COX-1 and COX-2 inhibition','The results obtained indicates the anti-inflammatory potential of sesquiterpenes, spathulenol and farnesol by membrane stabilization and enxyme inhibition. This might be useful in the development of dual LOX/COX inhibitors with a higher safety profile as eco-friendly anti-inflammatory agents. Further work is underway to unravel the biochemical mechanism of action of these molecules where the data obtained might provide a promising approach against development of anti-inflammatory conditions and be considered for further validation to ensure the therapeutic efficacy and action.','-','J. Achyutha Devi (2023). Spathulenol and Farnesol as Potential Anti-inflammatory Sesquiterpenoid Molecules from leaves of Acronychia pedunculata. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 15(6): 480-490.'),(6850,'159','Suitability of Phycocyanin gene Sequences for the Identification of Cyanobacterial taxa belonging to Oscillatoriales','Shakena Fathima T., Fayaazuddin T., Dhanveer Ahamed B., Prakash P., Akilan E., Asraf Sithikka M.R., Muralitharan G. and Thajuddin N.','Suitability-of-Phycocyanin-gene-Sequences-for-the-Identification-of-Cyanobacterial-taxa-belonging-to-Oscillatoriales-Majoj-Kumar-73.pdf','',1,'Cyanobacteria, known as blue green algae have evolved over billions of years to survive in a variety of environments, including those with extreme temperatures, pH, and salinities. Identifying cyanobacteria can be challenging due to their morphological diversity, and the presence of similar-phenotypic with variations of genotypic characters. Most common problems encountered when identifying cyanobacteria are (1) Morphological variation of same taxa may differ in the natural environment and in laboratory conditions; (2) Taxonomic revisions are made frequently as cyanobacterial taxonomy is constantly revolving; (3) Cryptic species like those are morphologically similar but genetically distinct, (4) Cyanobacterial growth are influenced by the environmental conditions like light, temperature, pH leading to phenotypic variations and Lack of comprehensive reference databases. In this present study, modern genetic, cyto-morphological, and ecological methodologies must be included and integrated for cyanobacterial taxonomy in order for their contemporary systematics to be developed. Phycocyanin (PC) gene sequences were used taxonomic resolution between 7 different Oscillatorial species and their Phylogenetic analysis; primary-secondary structure prediction, Ramachandran plot and homology modeling were studied. The diversity was revealed after processing the phycocyanin gene sequence and was deposited in GenBank (NCBI). From this study, interference in strain level variations among different species belonging to same genus of Oscillatoriales were elaborated using PC gene sequences which can be considered as a suitable molecular marker for identification of cyanobacteria. ','Molecular Taxonomy, Phycocyanin, Phylogenetic resolution, Structure prediction, Oscillatoriales','Numerous studies demonstrated the limitations of categorising taxa based solely on morphological characteristics; therefore, phycocyanin gene sequencing was used for betterment of Cyanobacterial identification (Shakena et al., 2022; Heidari et al., 2003). Utilising the phycocyanin gene, the genetic diversity of the Oscillatoriaceae family Obtained from NRMC-F was studied. In order to expose the variability, the PC gene\'s sequence was further analysed using Phylogenetic analysis, primary and secondary structure prediction. The gene sequence was also compared with the reference phycocyanin gene from NCBI to determine the identity percentage among different strains belonging same genus with the help of Homology modelling. ','-','Shakena Fathima T., Fayaazuddin T., Dhanveer Ahamed B., Prakash P., Akilan E., Asraf Sithikka M.R., Muralitharan G. and Thajuddin N. (2023). Suitability of Phycocyanin gene Sequences for the Identification of Cyanobacterial taxa belonging to Oscillatoriales. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 15(6): 491-498.'),(6851,'159','A Study on Fungi Biodeterioration on Stone Monuments','Sathya S.','A Study on Fungi Biodeterioration on Stone Monuments-Sathya S-74.pdf','',1,'Fungi play a considerable role for the deterioration of cultural heritage. Due to their enormous activity. Fungal ability in production of organic acid has a crucial role in discoloration and degradation of different types of stone in culture heritages. Additionally, stone objects may support novel communities of microorganisms that are active in the biodeterioration process. In addition, microorganisms also colonize these monuments over a period of time, resulting in formation of biofilms; their metabolites lead to physical weakening and discoloration of stone eventually. This process, known as biodeterioration, leads to a significant loss of cultural heritage. This investigation focuses on mycological analyses of microbial biofilm from Pundarikakshan Perumal temple at Thiruvellarai, in Trichy District. In this work, the ability of fungi producing organic acids and biodiversity of fungal consortia was examined on the stone monuments.','Biodeterioration, Fungi, Organic acid, Monuments, discoloration, Exopolysaccharide',' Microorganisms play an important role in the biodeterioration of objects of cultural and historical significance, but their detailed biochemical and Eco physiological functions and roles remain unclear. Although many studies have reported that a high diversity of microorganisms participate in the biodeterioration process. Fungi is highly frequent in sample I. Isolates were identified based on cultural characteristics. Research on the biodeterioration of historical materials has revealed the presence of huge microbial diversity consisting of both biofilm producing and non-producing colonization. Few are organic acid producers and predominantly non organic aid producers. ','-','Sathya S. (2023). A Study on Fungi Biodeterioration on Stone Monuments. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 15(6): 499-502.'),(6852,'159','Occupational Stress and Satisfaction of Professionals in Dual-Earner Families: A Review','Chinmayee Sahoo and Jyotirmayee Udgata','Occupational-Stress-and-Satisfaction-of-Professionals-in-Dual-Earner-Families-A-Review-Jyotirmayee-Udgata-75.pdf','',1,'The dual earner families in the contemporary society are increasing day by day. This is a challenge to both the men and women to combine their job and family roles to get better satisfaction in their life. There may be work-family conflict, stress and tension leading to less productivity in both the family and job front. The occupational stress may hamper the familial harmony with lower job and family life satisfaction. At this juncture, it is significant to study the level of satisfaction in family life as well as job and the factors influencing these variables. The purpose of the present study is to review occupational stress and satisfaction among the career men and women in dual-earner families. This study focused on socio-demographic profile of different target groups, assessment of occupational stress by using different qualitative scales, the relationship among occupational stress, job satisfaction, marital satisfaction, the impact of socioeconomic status on job satisfaction, marital satisfaction, and coping strategies adopted by the dual earner families in order to reduce stress. Reviewing various research papers, it was observed that in dual-earner families both men and women were facing high occupational stress and occupational stress has significant relationship with job satisfaction and marital satisfaction.','Occupational stress, dual-earner families, job satisfaction, marital satisfaction, coping strategy','The research gap was determined by reviewing about 31 articles from different sources. The result shows that most of the dual earner men and women were in the age group of 30 to 40 years and were experiencing a high-stress level. So, it may be considered that this is a period of expanding stage of family life and we know it is the most challenging phase for both men and women to balance between career and family. Most of the sample men and women lived in the nuclear family. The teachers work longer hours than any other positions which leads to more stress. There is a negative correlation between job satisfaction and marital satisfaction which is caused due to heavy job stress. workplace stress negatively affected marital life as well as work life. There is a high risk of marital dissolution due to the imbalance between work and family life. A significant relationship was found between income and stress and job satisfaction whereas other study shows that job stress was independent to age, income and number of dependants. Another study finds out that there is no significant difference on marital adjustment in relation to age. There is a contradictory statement between various articles so, in the further study we can find out the impact of other socio-demographic variables concerning job satisfaction and marital satisfaction among dual-earner families. Various stress management techniques were found for dual-earners such as flexible working hours, shifting of work, job-sharing management, provision for work from home in some cases, assistance from family members, neighbours, and support from colleagues. Conflict resolution techniques were used to resolve the conflict between men and women. Some of the studies show that family therapy was used to solve the psychological problem of professionals.','-','Chinmayee Sahoo and Jyotirmayee Udgata (2023). Occupational Stress and Satisfaction of Professionals in Dual-Earner Families: A Review. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 15(6): 503-507.'),(6853,'159','Identification of Critical Sub-Watershed of Kotani Watershed in Chhattisgarh based on Morphometric Analysis using Geospatial Techniques','Dileshwari, M.P. Tripathi, Janhavi and Usha Yadav','Identification-of-Critical-Sub-Watershed-of-Kotani-Watershed-in-Chhattisgarh-based-on-Morphometric-Analysis-using-Geospatial-Techniques-Dileshwari-76.pdf','',1,'In this work, the suitable soil and water conservation measures and its development in the Kotani watershed have been achieved using the morphometric analysis-based recognition of critical sub-watershed, remote sensing and GIS techniques. In the delineation and identification of drainage lines, as well as in the management and planning that are water-based assets geospatial method has been found to be an effective tool. The work has shown that geospatial techniques can potentially use to evaluate morphometric aspects of the Seonath basin. The linear, areal and relief aspects, were used in the morphometric study. Various identification ranks were assigned after the compound factor has been assessed. In the ArcGIS 10.3 environment, DEM from the SRTM and additional thematic layers including drainage pattern and drainage density were created and analyzed. The results of identification of sub-watershed shows that critical sub-watershed SW1 falls under high priority rank because its compound parameters value was found to be lowest as 5.6. The Kotani watershed SW1 has low form factor, low elongation ratio, steep slopes, high drainage density, and high stream frequency.','GIS, morphometric parameter, drainage basin','The current study highlights the utility of remote sensing and GIS approaches in identifying key sub-watersheds based on morphometric analysis. Results of identification of critical sub-watersheds shows that SW1 falls under very high priority category and greater risk to soil erosion SW1 has been identified by steep slope, high drainage density, high stream frequency, low form factor, and low elongation ratio. The greater the degree of soil erosion in the SW1, the more likely it is that soil conservation measures will be implemented. Immediate attention to soil conservation measures is essential in the SW1 to protect the land from future erosion and to mitigate natural dangers. One significant disadvantage of morphometric analysis is that it provides little information on the spatial distribution of shape changes across the organism. Morphometric analysis techniques must be adopted by all government and non-government organizations involved in the planning, implementation, and managing of watershed programs in the Chhattisgarh.','-','Dileshwari, M.P. Tripathi, Janhavi and Usha Yadav (2023). Identification of Critical Sub-Watershed of Kotani Watershed in Chhattisgarh based on Morphometric Analysis using Geospatial Techniques. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 15(6): 508-515.'),(6854,'157','Biosynthesis of Two Nanoparticles using Ficus auriculata Lour. Fresh Fruit extract and their Antibacterial Activity','A. Antony Selvi, G.S. Anantha Selvi and S.M. Prasad','Biosynthesis-of-Two-Nanoparticles-using-Ficus-auriculata-Lour.-Fresh-Fruit-extract-and-their-Antibacterial-Activity-A-Antony-Selvi-180.pdf','',1,'The bio synthesis of plant-mediated based nanoparticles is increasingly used to target bacteria as an alternative to antibiotics. The use of nanoparticles in antibacterial vaccines for the control of bacterial infections, antibiotic delivery systems for the treatment of many disease, the bacterial detection systems for the generation of microbial diagnostics, and antibacterial coatings for implantable devices and medicinal materials to prevent infection and promote wound healing. The present study was focused on studying the in antibacterial activity of nano synthesized Ficus auriculata against the gram-negative and gram-positive pathogenic bacteria Escherichia coli, Streptococcus pyogenes, Salmonella typhimurium, Enterobacter faecalis, Staphylococcus aureus, Shigellasonnei, Klebsiella pneumonia, and Vibrio cholerae. The nanoparticles were characterized by UV-visible and FT-IR spectroscopy. The fruit extracts of F. auriculata have potent activity against bacterial pathogens. The result of the study will help to design the drug against selected human pathogens in the pharmaceutical industry.','Ficus auriculata Antibacterial activity, UV-Visible spectroscopy and CuNPs, AgNPs','For nanotechnology to truly take off, a trustworthy and eco-friendly method of synthesising metallic nanoparticles is required. In the field of nanotechnology, nanoparticles are considered essential building blocks. Both silver and copper nanoparticles were found to have exceptionally efficient zones of inhibition against pathogenic microorganisms. According to the present research, plants are essentially pharmaceutical assembly lines. Additional testing is needed to extract the pure component for use in medication manufacturing. The produced nanoparticles have potential medical uses as bactericidal agents, and the underlying technology is promising for larger-scale nanoparticle manufacturing.','-','A. Antony Selvi, G.S. Anantha Selvi and S.M. Prasad (2023). Biosynthesis of Two Nanoparticles using Ficus auriculata Lour. Fresh Fruit extract and their Antibacterial Activity. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 15(5): 1211-1217.'),(6855,'159','Dental Calculus as a Vital Tool in Forensic Odontology','P. Sai Archana, Kanmani, Vishnu, Abinaya, Priyanga and Kavya Dharshini','Dental-Calculus-as-a-Vital-Tool-in-Forensic-Odontology-Saiarchana-77.pdf','',1,'Evidences are a essential tool to bring in justice to the person, but these evidences are sometimes hidden in plain sight & difficult to identify and procure because of reasons varying from storage in rugged conditions, cost and procedure involved in investigations and removal of body parts if needed for evaluation. These are the usual drawbacks that forensic specialists encounter during proof collection and presentation, but this can be easily avoided or better accepted with this evidence. Forensic odontology is primarily concerned with the use of teeth and oral structures for identification in a legal context. Various forensic odontology techniques help in the identification of the human remains in incidents such as terrorists’ attacks, airplane, train and road accidents, fires, mass murders, and natural disasters such as tsunamis, earth quakes and floods, etc. (Disaster Victim Identification-DVI). Dental tooth are the hardest substances seen in the whole body and they tolerate heat and humid conditions comparatively well than other soft and hard tissues of the body. Tooth identification and the way it is placed served as a vital tool in individual identification in the past but the recent advancements paved way to be more specific to the individual identification namely m-DNA analysis. In the field of dentistry, newer methods and avenues were researched for finding evidences which will be easy to procure and provide invaluable evidence in forensics and thus dental calculus were found to be a viable option. Recently, studies reported an excellent source of nucleic acids in dental calculus as it contained a multitude of diverse biomolecules (including microbial, oral micro biome and host DNA) providing information about an individual\'s culture, diet, ancestry, and health as it remained intact with lesser destruction through time. Hence in this article, we highlight the importance of forensic odontology and the methods in which dental calculus will serve as reliable evidence in upholding justice.','Forensic odontology, Dental calculus, DNA analysis, Saliva, Criminology','The DNA samples procured from the individuals has been shown to incorporate endogenous host-DNA, microbial DNA and external environmental inclusions. Analysis of calculus may provide important insights into descendant’s lifestyle, diet, and possible presence of a disease. Thus, calculus aids in approach towards evaluation of the ante mortem profile of unidentified individuals in forensics. Thus, dental calculus acts as minimally invasive, reliable and economical evidence in identification of humans hence can be used in future where it can be helpful in mass disasters or in identification in crime scenes.','-','P. Sai Archana, Kanmani, Vishnu, Abinaya, Priyanga and Kavya Dharshini (2023). Dental Calculus as a Vital Tool in Forensic Odontology. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 15(6): 516-520.'),(6856,'159','Phytochemicals and Pharmacological Studies of Murraya koenigii Spreng (Rutaceae): A Comprehensive Review of its Therapeutic Potential','Harshita Sisodia and Pravina Rathore','Phytochemicals-and-Pharmacological-Studies-of-Murraya-koenigii-Spreng-(Rutaceae)-A-Comprehensive-Review-of-its-Therapeutic-Potential-Harshita-Sisodia-78.pdf','',1,'The concept of \"food as medicine and medicine as food\" was prominent in ancient times, highlighting the therapeutic properties of plants. Murraya koenigii, also known as the \"Magical plant of Indian Spice\", not only served as a culinary ingredient but also held a vital place in traditional medicine among village and folk communities. It is a medicinal herb originating from India and has been extensively utilized in Ayurvedic medicine for centuries. The abundant presence of carbazole alkaloids in the roots, fruits, leaves, and bark of Murraya koenigii has been associated with their significant pharmacological activities, including anticancer, antidiabetic, antinociceptive, antibacterial, and antioxidant properties. Moreover, this plant retains a broad spectrum of biological events. The carbazole alkaloids such as koenigin, bicyclomahanimbicine, cyclomahanimbine, murrayastine, coumarine, koenidine and pyrayafoline carbazole has substantial medicinal activities. Given the phytochemistry and pharmacology of Murraya koenigii, there is a compelling need for a comprehensive review of its therapeutic potential as a valuable agent in the treatment and management of various human ailments. The present review incorporates the description, phytochemical constituents, and pharmacological activities of Murraya koenigii. The findings offer valuable insights into the potential development of effective drugs for the treatment of a wide range of ailments.','Murraya koenigii, Phytochemistry, Pharmacological activities','The available literature on Murraya koenigii highlights its abundance of bioactive phytochemicals that have shown potential in treating various diseases. With its widespread presence in India, M. koenigii holds significant appeal for further exploration through pre-clinical and clinical research. This multipotential medicinal plant offers a wide range of applications, as different parts of the plant possess medicinal properties and are utilized in traditional medicine. Extensive examination of its bioactivity, pharmacotherapeutics, mechanisms of action, toxicity profiles, and proper standardization, coupled with clinical trials, may pave the way for the development of new drugs. The plant is commonly employed for its stimulant, antiemetic, antiperiodic, antidiarrheal, tonic, antifungal, depressant, blood-purifying, and anti-inflammatory properties.\r\nMoreover, Murraya koenigii has gained recognition for its efficacy in addressing a range of ailments, including body aches, diabetes mellitus, vomiting, stomachic issues, leucoderma, kidney pain, and fevers. It also serves to stimulate appetite and aid digestion. The plant harbors a diverse assortment of phyto-constituents, encompassing carbazole alkaloids, coumarin, carotenoids, carbazole carboxylic acid, lipids, and essential oils. With its validation of numerous traditional uses, future directions may encompass clinical trials and the development of formulations, employing a comprehensive approach to elucidate its therapeutic properties. Furthermore, investigating geographical and seasonal variations could unveil the specific chemical constituents responsible for its bioactivity, offering an intriguing avenue for research. Undertaking extensive research and development endeavors concerning the plant and its derivatives holds pivotal importance in optimizing therapeutic efficacy and fostering economic utilization.\r\n','-','Harshita Sisodia and Pravina Rathore (2023). Phytochemicals and Pharmacological Studies of Murraya koenigii Spreng (Rutaceae): A Comprehensive Review of its Therapeutic Potential. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 15(6): 521-528.'),(6857,'159','Characterization of different Organic Sources for Soil Improvement','Arvind, P.K. Sharma, Ayush Bahuguna, Prem Kumar Bharteey, Tusarkanta Behera, Sumit Kumar Tripathi and Munesh Kumar Shukla','Characterization-of-different-Organic-Sources-for-Soil-Improvement-Arvind-79.pdf','',1,'Organic amendments provide organic matter and valuable nutrients to agricultural soil, improve soil structure, increase water holding capacity, and stimulate soil microbial communities. Organic materials must be characterized in order to predict and comprehend their chemistry and behaviour. Numerous studies have attempted to determine its structure and chemical composition; however, due to sample heterogeneity, there is no definitive structure for organic matter, despite the fact that many structural models have been proposed. Farm yard manure (FYM) also improves the soil\'s ability to retain water. Vermicompost (VC) are materials derived from earthworms and microorganisms promoting the biological deterioration of organic wastes. Sewage sludge is an undesirable by-product of methods for wastewater treatment. Here characterization of four organic sources were done which are FYM, Sewage sludge (SS), Vermicompost (VC) and Poultry manure (PM). The result of the chemical analysis showed that all the organic sources has neutral pH value, while organic carbon content was highest in (VC) and other nutrient analysis showed that the nitrogen, phosphorus, potassium and sulphur varied in different organic sources. Similar results for micronutrient reported.','Vermicompost, FYM, Poultry manure, Sewage sludge','Organic sources characterization leads to the knowledge of how these sources will affects the soil fertility status. As all of these sources has some nutrient such as nitrogen, potassium, phosphorus, sulphur and micronutrients. So, current characterization of these organic sources will help one to understand their role in the soil system when we applied them. Vermicompost contains more organic carbon compared to other organic sources. Use of FYM, poultry manure and Sewage sludge in long term application can enhance the fertility status of soil as well as improves the biological properties of soil. So, their characterization is essential on that aspect. Therefore, all these information of organic sources reduce the dependence on fertilizers resulting in less pollution to the soil and environment, which on further improve the yield of different crop.','-','Arvind, P.K. Sharma, Ayush Bahuguna, Prem Kumar Bharteey, Tusarkanta Behera, Sumit Kumar Tripathi and Munesh Kumar Shukla (2023). Characterization of different Organic Sources for Soil Improvement. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 15(6): 529-531.'),(6858,'159','Assessment and Evaluation on Perception, Knowledge and Awareness of Oral Cancer among General Population in South Chennai','Christeffi Mabel R., Jagannatha G.V., Abinaya Balakrishnan, Vincy Preetha and Lakshmipriya','Assessment-and-Evaluation-on-Perception,-Knowledge-and-Awareness-of-Oral-Cancer-Among-General-Population-in-South-Chennai-Abinaya-Balakrishnan-80.pdf','',1,'Cancer is one of the greatest threats to the lives and economic resources in the world. GLOBOCAN (Global Cancer Observatory) 2020 marks India in the 3rd position, with reference to oral cancer and according to World Cancer Research Fund International, lip and oral cavity cancer ranks 16th in list of common cancers. In India with such a high rate of incidence, cognizance of oral cancer is the first strike at prevention of the disease. The objective of the study is to assess and evaluate the perception, knowledge and awareness of oral cancer among general population. A cross-sectional questionnaire-based study, consisted of 17 self-validated, closed-ended questions directed towards the general population residing in Tamil Nadu state, India. The sample size was derived at (n = 380). In this survey 85.4 %, 64.3%, 66% and 56.8 % of the respondents were aware that smoking, alcohol, betel nut (vetrilaipaaku) and areca nut (paaku) were the risk factors associated with oral cancer respectively. As good as 40.1% of the participants deduced, pain and loosening of teeth as one of the symptoms of oral cancer, followed by presence of a mouth ulcer (37.2%). About half the participants (52%) were not familiar with free dental screening camps and around 37.8% were not aware of habit cessation programmes. This survey revealed high rates of awareness among the literates, young adolescent and adult women. With the advent of smart phones, the Internet has etched in the minds of people a phobia about oral cancer, thereby frequent dental visits has come into practice.','Oral cancer, awareness, tobacco, betel quid, alcohol','The word cancer, carries with itself a sense of impending doom, that devours us humans faster than the disease. The advertisements, warnings on cigarette packs and the propaganda to discontinue the use of tobacco, has lead to a 33% reduction in the usage of tobacco related products by the youth in India, according to Global Adult Tobacco Survey (GATS -2 2016-17). This survey therefore rightly points out to the fact that awareness, perception and knowledge of oral cancer is on the rise and especially among younger literate women and is barely among older/illiterate men and women, who are usually the victims of the dreadful disease.','-','Christeffi Mabel R., Jagannatha G.V., Abinaya Balakrishnan, Vincy Preetha and Lakshmipriya (2023). Assessment and Evaluation on Perception, Knowledge and Awareness of Oral Cancer among General Population in South Chennai. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 15(6): 532-535.'),(6859,'159','Erosive Lichen Planus an Epigone of Erythema Multiformae – A Case Report','Bhavithra Augusthian, Divyarani S., Christeffi Mabel R. and Vijayashree Raghavan','Erosive-Lichen-Planus-an-Epigone-of-Erythema-Multiformae-–-A-Case-Report-Bhavithraaugusthian-81.pdf','',1,'Oral lichen planus (OLP) is a chronic inflammatory disease with an unclear aetiology that affects the stratified squamous epithelium in the oral cavity. OLP affects 0.1% to 4% of the general population, with perimenopausal women being more likely to develop it. The oral cavity is impacted by several immune-mediated inflammatory mucocutaneous disorders; the majority of these diseases manifest with varied degrees of erosions, ulcers, and pain. Early and accurate diagnosis of such diseases is essential for patient treatment because they may have severe implications if not treated. This case report attempts to describe an ELP that mirrored erythema multiforme on a 54-year-old woman. On examination, features include flexor scarring, crustations over the lips, palmar crease erosion and plantar keratosis, dry flaky white lesions of the eyelids, and an annular pattern of papules in the groin and axillary region. On the buccal mucosae and dorsoventral surface of the tongue, there were many erosions with surface sloughing. Erosive lesions with bloody remnants were visible on the labial mucosae. Systemic steroids were administered to the patient, since there was no progression, systemic and oral topical immunosuppressants was given. The patient was under regular follow up for 3 months with no new complaints. The rate of healing and ability to ward off malignancy will both depend on an accurate diagnosis of the lesion.','Erosive lichen planus, Oral lichen planus, erythema multiforme, Mimicking, mucocutaneous diseases','Oral lichen planus is a multifactorial disease and one of the most prevalent oral dermatological conditions that dentists commonly encounter in their practice. In this case report, it is noticed that erosive lichen planus occasionally mimics the characteristics of erythema multiforme. So, it is important to diagnose the lesion and administer proper medications at the earliest along with educating the patient and lifestyle modification to ensure a positive outcome.','-','Bhavithra Augusthian, Divyarani S., Christeffi Mabel R. and Vijayashree Raghavan (2023). Erosive Lichen Planus an Epigone of Erythema Multiformae – A Case Report. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 15(6): 536-539.'),(6860,'159','Primary Tuberculous Osteomyelitis of Jaw-A Case Report of 7 Year Old Child','Shiyamala R., Pavithra S., Christeffi Mabel R., Merlin and Alagappan','Primary-Tuberculous-Osteomyelitis-of-Jaw-A-Case-Report-of-7-Year-Old-Child-Pavithra-82.pdf','',1,'Tuberculosis is a chronic granulatomous disease caused by bacilli Mycobacterium tuberculosis. TB is life-threatening disease in developing countries like India. Worldwide TB is the 13th leading cause of death and the second leading infectious killer after covid-19. In 2022, an estimated of 10 million people fell ill with Tuberculous (TB) worldwide. In 2020, 30 high TB burden countries accounted for 86% of new TB cases. Eight countries account for two-thirds of the total, with India leading the count, followed by China, Indonesia, Philippines, Pakistan, Nigeria, Bangladesh and South Africa. Multidrug-resistant TB (MDR-TB) remains a public health crisis and a health security threat. Only about one in three people with drug-resistant TB accessed treatment in 2020. Globally TB incidence is falling at about 2% per year and between 2015 and 2020 the cumulative reduction was 11%. This was over halfway to the end TB Strategy milestone of 20% reduction between 2015 and 2020. Oral TB is a rare phenomenon with an incidence of 1.4% and is seen in 5% of total TB cases. About less than 2% of oral TB present as osteomyelitis of mandible. Subclinical TB is a disease that occurs due to viable M. tuberculosis bacteria that do not cause clinical TB-related symptoms but causes other abnormalities that can be detected using existing radiologic or microbiologic assays and hence the diagnosis of extrapulmonary TB remains demanding, World TB day is on March 24 to honor Dr. Robert Koch discovery of M. tuberculosis. This case report explains the most common yet rare clinical presentation of Tuberculosis.','Primary Tuberculosis, Juvenile Tuberculosis, Osteolytic lesion of mandible, Tuberculous Osteomyelitis, Extra Pulmonary Tuberculosis','Tuberculosis, though the most common infectious disease among the developing low socio economic status population, its varying presentation is quite challenging for the physician to identify and treat at the earliest possible. Hence, regular updates and adequate knowledge on its presentation and the development of advanced technologies to diagnose this disease is essential for all the physicians. Diagnosis of extra pulmonary tuber was hampered due to the absence of a history of TB exposure in the majority of cases, and to a lower sensitivity of TST.','-','Shiyamala R., Pavithra S., Christeffi Mabel R., Merlin and Alagappan (2023). Primary Tuberculous Osteomyelitis of Jaw-A Case Report of 7 Year Old Child. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 15(6): 540-544.'),(6861,'159','Constraints Faced by Extension Personnel while Attending Trainings in Punjab Agricultural Management and Extension Training Institute in Punjab State','Jyotishree Anshuman, Rupinder Kaur, Vipan Kumar Rampal, Shreya Kar and Badigi Pavan Naik','Constraints-Faced-by-Extension-Personnel-while-Attending-Trainings-in-Punjab-Agricultural-Management-and-Extension-Training-Institute-in-Punjab-State-Jyotishree-Anshuman-83.pdf','',1,'Training is recognized as the procedure of acquiring particular skills to enhance job performance. It enables individuals to attain the necessary qualifications and proficiency in carrying out tasks more effectively when compared to their previous capabilities. However, constraints on training for extension personnel include limited resources and funding, time constraints due to demanding work schedules, and lack of access to training facilities, which can hinder their professional development and ability to effectively serve their communities. The study entitled “Constraints faced by extension personnel while attending trainings in Punjab Agricultural Management and Extension Training Institute in Punjab state” was undertaken with the objective of studying the professional competence of extension personnel. The study included sample who had undergone competency development training programs conducted by the Punjab Agricultural Management and Extension Training Institute (PAMETI) between 2017 and 2018. A total of five training programs were selected through purposive sampling, and within each program, 24 trainees were randomly chosen. Therefore, a sample of 120 trainees from PAMETI in Ludhiana was included in this study. Fear of handling ICT tools, practical aspects, field visits and demonstrations, lack of fund and difficulty in adjusting with heterogenous group were the most severe constraint among personal constraints, organisational constraint, economic constraint and social constraint respectively as perceived by the trainees of PAMETI.','Constraints, Extension Personnel, PAMETI','Training is a process which enhances the knowledge, attitude and skill of an individual. Today\'s agricultural development necessitates well-trained, adaptable extension personnel for which effective training is very important. Through this study the major constraints that affects the effectiveness was revealed. Fear of handling ICT tools, practical aspects, field visits and demonstrations, lack of fund and difficulty in adjusting with heterogenous group were the most severe constraint faced by the trainees. Therefore, for a better and smooth conduction of trainings all these constraints must be given importance. The institution must look towards these constraints for the effectiveness and satisfaction of the trainees.','-','Jyotishree Anshuman, Rupinder Kaur, Vipan Kumar Rampal, Shreya Kar and Badigi Pavan Naik (2023). Constraints Faced by Extension Personnel while Attending Trainings in Punjab Agricultural Management and Extension Training Institute in Punjab State. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 15(6): 545-548.'),(6862,'159','Identification of viruses Naturally infecting Patchouli (Pogostemon cablin (Blanco) Benth.) in India','Humaira Bano and Jawaid A. Khan','Identification-of-viruses-Naturally-infecting-Patchouli-(Pogostemon-cablin-(Blanco)-Benth.)-in-India-Humaira-Bano-84.pdf','',1,'Patchouli (Pogostemon cablin) is considered one of the most important aromatic medicinal plants. A number of viruses are known to attack patchouli plant, causing mosaic symptoms and significantly reduce the quality and quantity of patchouli production. To prevent crop loss or minimise crop damage, accurate viral detection and identification are required before developing virus control methods. However only a handful of information is available in India for their identification. This study aims to identify and characterise the viruses associated with mosaic disease of patchouli using RT-PCR. Infected plant samples were collected from different patchouli cultivated states in India such as Assam, Karnataka and Palampur. RT-PCR employing pair of degenerated primers, specific to both potyvirus and fabavirus, yielded DNA fragments representing Peanut stripe virus and Broad bean wilt virus 2, respectively. Furthermore, RT-PCR using the designed primers specific to 3\' end of PStV yielded amplicon that represent nuclear inclusion b protein (partial), coat protein (CP, complete) and 3\' UTR. RT-PCR with the designed primers specific to BBWV2 produced an amplicon that encompases the large and small CP (partial). The PCR amplicons were subjected to nucleotide sequencing. The Phylogenetic analysis clustered Indian PStV isolates together with those from Taiwan, Vietnam and Thailand in a single clade. According to phylogenetic analysis of BBWV2, Indian isolates were clustered with Chinese and German isolates. Thus, RT-PCR assay developed here can act as a diagnostic tool for detection and epidemiological investigation of PStV and BBWV2.','Broad bean wilt virus 2, Peanut stripe virus, Patchouli, Phylogenetic, RT-PCR','PStV (potyvirus) and BBWV2 (fabavirus) have been identified as the viruses associated with the mosaic disease of patchouli plants in India based on the highest nucleotide identities of CP gene sequence and their phylogenetic relationship. Phylogenetic analysis of PStV isolates under study showed close resemblance with Taiwan, Vietnam and Thailand. The phylogenetic analysis of BBWV2 showed its close resemblance with China and Germany isolates. Consequently, the present study reveals the virus diversity, subgrouping, evolutionary history within the patchouli viruses in India.','-','Humaira Bano and Jawaid A. Khan (2023). Identification of viruses naturally infecting Patchouli (Pogostemon cablin (Blanco) Benth.) in India. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 15(6): 549-558.'),(6863,'159','Traditional use of Betel Leaf (Piper betel L.) by the Residents of Purba Medinipur District of West Bengal: An Ethno-medical Study','Shantilata Samanta, Navneet Sharma and Dinesh Kr. Singh','Traditional-use-of-Betel-Leaf-(Piper-betel-L.)-by-the-Residents-of-Purba-Medinipur-District-of-West-Bengal-An-Ethno-medical-Study-Shantilata-Samanta-85.pdf','',1,'The betel leaf, sometimes referred to as \"pan\" in West Bengal, is a traditional medicinal plant that can be consumed as necessary. The green, young leaves of the betel vine are the edible or consumable component. The \'Neglected Green Gold of India\' is another name for this plant. It has been discovered that the plant is a great source of vitamins, fiber, and minerals. Today\'s youth, however, are less fond of the pan than previous generations. Pan is gradually not so much consumed by the young villagers. The primary goal of the current study is to look into and gather data regarding the use of betel leaves by locals in West Bengal, India\'s Purba Medinipur District. From January 2023 to March 2023, the study was carried out in 8 villages in the Purba Medinipur District. The methods used to acquire data are in-person interviews and surveys using questionnaires. In addition to using it medicinally, it has been discovered that the locals use this plant extensively in many other aspects of their lives. Boils, cuts, minor to major wounds, gynecological difficulties, problems with the nerves, bowel movements, and respiratory distress are all treated with plant leaves. You could say that they live their daily lives around this plant. The people of West Bengal\'s Purba Medinipur District frequently use the pan as traditional medicine.','Betel leaf, Traditional medicinal system, Purba Medinipur District','It is quite clear from the present study that, the local people of Ramnagar-1 and Ramnagar-2 Blocks of Purba Medinipur District of West Bengal are very well habituated in using betel leaf in traditional therapeutic ways. The betel leaf is used for therapeutic purposes either as a whole or its extract. Sometimes it is applied with constituents like honey, lime, turmeric, mustard oil, and cod liver oil. The main ailments that are treated by the application of betel leaf are nausea, constipation, cold cough, obstructive urination, headache, wounds, cuts, boils, etc. So, it is confirmed that betel leaf proved to be beneficial in different aspects and it becomes an integral part of the day-to-day life of the natives of Purba Medinipur district. ','-','Shantilata Samanta, Navneet Sharma and Dinesh Kr. Singh (2023). Traditional use of Betel Leaf (Piper betel L.) by the Residents of Purba Medinipur District of West Bengal: An Ethno-medical Study. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 15(6): 559-564.'),(6864,'146','Production and marketing Constraints of maize in Karnataka state ','Gadigeppa Muramatti, K. K. Sarangi, S. N. Mishra and Abhiram Dash ','Production-and-marketing-Constraints-of-maize-in-Karnataka-state--Gadigeppa-Muramatti -235.pdf','',1,'In recent years, both India\'s production and consumption patterns have undergone significant shift. The production pattern as well as its consumption pattern has dramatically changed in India in the recent past. However, the average crop yield of 2.5 t/ha is still very low as compared to the other Asian countries like Bangladesh (6.8 t/ha), China (5.7 t/ha), Indonesia (4.6 t/ha) and Pakistan (3.8 t/ha) in 2012. Major challenge is in the maize is abiotic stresses, which makes the crop vulnerable to drought. The target beneficiaries of the study are, farmers, policy maker and the marketers. This study looked at the increase in maize production, area, and productivity in the Bagalkot and Belagavi districts of Karnataka state. Additionally, an effort has been made to research the problems that farmers were facing when maize was grown and sold in the study area. Total 120 maize growers were picked out of Bagalkot and Belagavi district. For the current study, information pertaining to the 2018–19 agricultural year was used, and primary data were gathered using the personal interview method and a pre–tested schedule. it was observed that variation in area from year after year growth rate of area has been increased by 2.11 percent. CV of area in all the district greater than the CV of entire state (14.64 percent) and mixed trend has been observed in both production and the productivity of maize According to farmers, over 80% of farmers believe that a lack of capital and limited credit availability during production is the most serious limitation to production, ranking first on the list of constraints, and high plant protection chemical costs (47.50 percent). The biggest issues with marketing are a lack of storage and warehouse facilities (31 percent), poor transportation, and high transportation costs. Involvement of middlemen during marketing to obtain fair prices.','Production, Constraints, middlemen, capital, farmers and Productivity','The constraints faced by farmers during maize production were Shortage of capital and low credit access during production which is first in the list (I), for that mean score was followed by High cost of plant protection chemicals. Among the marketing level constraint, Location of market far away from the production point was first in the list, for which Garret’s rank was first(I) and followed by more market price fluctuations. The government should make credit facilities easily accessible through financial institutions, create cooperative groups to reduce transportation costs, store their produce, and sell it during slow seasons, and eliminate middlemen during marketing to obtain fair prices in order to solve the problems. Hence, there is a need to develop mechanisms for strengthening the production and marketing-system of maize in Karnataka and traditional maize growing areas, so that the poverty ridden maize producers can also benefit (Gopinath & Chitra 2020). Maize has become one of the most important crops with its every part having economic value and immense scope for value additions. It is rightly called the queen of cereals. Capacity of Managing Challenges faced by the women entrepreneurs of informal sector, people’s attention on consuming cereals has increased and the demand for these items has also boosted up).','-','Gadigeppa Muramatti, K. K. Sarangi, S. N. Mishra and Abhiram Dash (2022). Production and marketing Constraints of maize in Karnataka state. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 14(4): 1321-1324.'),(6865,'159','Bio-efficacy of the Combination Product Emamectin benzoate 4% + Alfamethrin 9% against Tomato Fruit Borer (Helicoverpa armigera Hübner) (Noctuidae: Lepidoptera) and their Safety to Natural Enemies','N. Aswathanarayana Reddy, Raghunatha, R., B. Subramanyam, Ramachandra R.K. and Manjunathareddy T.B. ','Bio-efficacy-of-the-Combination-Product-Emamectin-benzoate-4--Alfamethrin-9-against-Tomato-Fruit-Borer-(Helicoverpa-armigera-Hübner)-(Noctuidae-Lepidoptera)-and-their-Safet-N Aswathanarayana Reddy-Raghu-86.pdf','',1,'Tomato (Solanum lycopersicum) is one of the most important and remunerative vegetable crops grown around the world for fresh market and processing. Tomato is plagued with several insect pests mainly due to the tenderness and softness as compared to other crops and devastated by an array of pests. Of which, the fruit borer (Helicoverpa armigera Hübner) is the polyphagous pest causes considerable losses in quantity as well as the quality of tomato fruits. Hence the field experiment was conducted to determine the bio-efficacy of combination product Emamectin benzoate 4% + Alfamethrin 9% against tomato fruit borer and its safety to natural enemies at Horticultural Research and Extension Centre, Hogalagere during 2019-20. The results revealed that the treatment emamectin benzoate 4% + alfamethrin 9% @1000 ml/ha was found superior in reducing the H.armigera population and increased marketable fruit yield in tomatoes, which was followed by the treatment emamectin benzoate 4% + alfamethrin 9% @ 500 ml/ha and emamectin benzoate 5SG @ 220g/ha. Emamectin benzoate is one of the microbial origin insecticide molecule produced by the fermentation of the soil actinomycete, Streptomyces avermitilis, and is safer to non target organisms. Hence, the tested combination product emamectin benzoate 4% + alfamethrin 9% was found to be non-toxic to important predators like Menochilus sexmaculatus, Bracon sp., and Chrysoperla carnea at all the concentrations. ','alfamethrin, bio-efficacy, emamectin benzoate, fruit borer, Helicoverpa armigera, natural enemies, tomato','-','-','N. Aswathanarayana Reddy, Raghunatha, R., B. Subramanyam, Ramachandra R.K. and Manjunathareddy T.B. (2023). Bio-efficacy of the Combination Product Emamectin benzoate 4% + Alfamethrin 9% against Tomato Fruit Borer (Helicoverpa armigera Hübner) (Noctuidae: Lepidoptera) and their Safety to Natural Enemies. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 15(6): 565-572.'),(6866,'159','Understanding Economics of Zero Tillage and Rice Straw Mulching in Potato Cultivation','Bijoy Sankar Goswami and Pradip Kumar Baruah','Understanding-Economics-of-Zero-Tillage-and-Rice-Straw-Mulching-in-Potato-Cultivation-Bijoy-Sankar-Goswami-87.pdf','',1,'Zero Tillage and Rice Straw Mulching (ZTRM) is such a technique which is widely used in wheat and other crops but has not been broadly used in potato. However, the ZTRM technique is becoming popular among small holders in Assam. The ZTRM technique does not require land preparation, and the mulch cover used in the technique retains high soil moisture. Whereas in Conventional Tillage (CT) there is requirement of land preparation, higher doses of fertilizer, and irrigation etc. Hence, both practices have different cost involvement. The current study provides an account of cost benefit analysis of ZTRM and CT in potato cultivation in Assam. This study was carried out in the district of Barpeta and Biswanath of state of Assam to have a better idea on variability on costs involved in different components in both the locations. It was found that the similar component had cost dynamics in both the places. This was a constraint to work out the cost of cultivation (CoC) to represent the benefit cost ratio for the same technique. The methods display various components to understand the cost involvement in both ZTRM, and CT using cost concept. The experiment was carried out in two different farmer’s fields, one in each district. The obtained results were analyzed using ANOVA at 5% probability level. \r\nThe results demonstrated that the cost involvement in ZTRM is 22% and 28% lesser in Barpeta and Biswanath district respectively when it was compared with CT. \r\n','Zero Tillage, Rice Straw Mulching, Conservation agriculture, Cost-benefit, Conventional Tillage','This study constitutes a basis for creating more awareness among farmers for practicing new methods such as ZTRM of potato cultivation. However, more in-depth and multilocation study would require knowing commercial and operational implications on a large-scale cultivation. The current study was performed on a smaller plot to understand the cost involvement. From the study, it is quite evident that small scale cultivation using ZTRM in the agricultural ecosystem of Assam can help small scale farmers. Because the ZTRM technology brings advantage of advancing the cropping cycle, it does not require land preparation, and no or very miniscule irrigation is required. This directly resonate with the current practice of farmers in Assam where irrigation in potato crop is hardly seen by farmers. In such situation ZTRM can complement the crop with conservation of moisture due to its mulch cover. As a result, farmers can get more benefit by realizing more yield.','-','Bijoy Sankar Goswami and Pradip Kumar Baruah (2023). Understanding Economics of Zero Tillage and Rice Straw Mulching in Potato Cultivation. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 15(6): 573-578.'),(6867,'159','Gene expression analysis and pharmacologic simulation of HbF expression an approach for the treatment of beta thalassemia','Soumya Khare, Tanushree Chatterjee and Ashish Patel ','Gene-expression-analysis-and-pharmacologic-simulation-of-HbF-expression-an-approach-for-the-treatment-of-beta-thalassemia-Soumya-Khare-88.pdf','',1,'Beta thalassemia is a globin gene synthesis condition in which the beta globin chain is not produced in red blood cells. With the development of biotechnologies, more research will be conducted to examine and improve novel therapies and natural cures to restart fetal hemoglobin (HbF) production for β-thalassemia patients. It is anticipated that more HbF inducing substances will eventually be discovered in traditional medicines and natural therapies around the world. Further research is necessary in this regard to explore further natural herbal remedies and to examine the effectiveness and safety of transitioning from laboratory to clinical use for those with β-hemoglobinopathies. The development of a new class of therapeutic agent consisting of some bioactive compounds such as flavanone for the treatment of beta thalassemia and the search for complementary and alternative medicine (CAM) that could prevent the regulated switch from fetal to adult globin gene expression. Flavones, for example, are a plant-derived chemical that has been shown to inhibit the HDAC2 enzyme and increase acetylation, thereby restoring cell homeostasis via the p38 MAPK pathway. HDAC2 could be involved in a complicated gamma globin suppression mechanism. In beta thalassemia, inducing HbF expression in erythroid cells is an important and additional treatment method. Dietary flavones can regulate HDAC activity, which could be useful in developing epigenetic treatment to control cell gene expression. As a result, it can be utilized to reactivate gamma globin expression through pharmaceutical means.','Fetal Hemoglobin, Beta thalassemia, Histone Deacetylase, Flavanone, MicroRNA','Patients with beta thalassemia frequently use complementary and alternative medicine (CAM), and a better understanding of healthcare education in this field is critical to minimizing any difficulties that may arise from the use of both conventional and CAM therapies. Complementary and alternative medicine (CAM) therapies are used by thalassemia patients to improve their health and quality of life. This research reveals how small groups of thalassemia patients were treated. Patients were willing to try complementary and alternative medicine (CAM), but not at the expense of conventional care. Combining complementary and alternative medicine with orthodox medicine, on the other hand, could pose a significant public health danger. As a result, there is a clear need for greater research in this area. Epigenetic pathways play a significant role in fetal globin gene silencing, both alone and in combination with specific transcription factor silencers such BCL11A and KLF1. The first proof-of-concept experiments in patients with hemoglobinopathies focused on DNA methylation and histone acetylation, two important epigenetic indicators of globin gene transcriptional activity. Gaining a better understanding of the specificity of epigenetic fetal globin gene silencing processes should lead to more effective globin disease treatment by raising HbF levels, according to the researchers. Methylation status, which limits β-globin synthesis, gene polymorphisms, which boost γ-globin production, and β thalassemia coinheritance, which lessens β thalassemia severity, is the most studied β thalassemia genetic modifiers. More genetic modifiers may be researched in the future in order to fully appreciate the clinical heterogeneity of β thalassemia and to identify therapeutic strategies to effectively treat the sickness. The current work adds to our knowledge of the molecular basis of flavones pharmacological potential as naturally occurring chemicals that lack traditional HDACi. These plant secondary metabolites could be a strong weapon against a range of illnesses if epigenetic treatment is used.','-','Soumya Khare, Tanushree Chatterjee and Ashish Patel (2023). Gene expression analysis and pharmacologic simulation of HbF expression an approach for the treatment of beta thalassemia. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 15(6): 579-585.'),(6868,'159','Formulation of Roasted Sunflower Seeds (Helianthus annuus L.) Katli: A Promising Complementary Food for Children','Bhavana A., Usha Ravindra and Soumya Hiregoudar','Formulation-of-Roasted-Sunflower-Seeds-(Helianthus-annuus-L.)-Katli-A-Promising-Complementary-Food-for-Children-Bhavana-A-89.pdf','',1,'Human milk alone no longer can supply all of an infant\'s nutritional needs, and complementary foods are needed to ensure adequate nutrition and growth. It is commonly assumed that an increased need for energy and protein is the primary factor dictating complementary feeding, but some of the micronutrients are likely to become limiting sooner than the macronutrients. Meeting children’s nutrient needs in early life can be challenging, and many parents face barriers to securing enough nutritious, safe, affordable and age-appropriate food for their children. Another challenging feature is that changing lifestyle and food habits where children are often fed with synthetic and processed food rather than nutritious foods leading to chronic health conditions. A complementary food sunflower seeds Katli is therefore designed to provide nutrient-dense, safe, low cost food from the combination of sunflower seeds, germinated wheat and green gram flour, jaggery and ghee. The Sunflower Seeds Katli was prepared with soaked and roasted formulations of (20%), (30%) and (40%). The sensory evaluation score of roasted Sunflower seeds Katli (30%) variation was found promising for appearance, colour, texture, flavour, taste and over acceptability was 8.52, 8.55, 7.56, 8.56, 8.58respectively. The nutritional composition of roasted sunflower seeds Katli (30%) was analyzed and found that the moisture content was 3.31 g, protein 15.47g, fat 10.49g, ash 1.96g, crude fibre 5.17g, carbohydrates 79.64g, energy 454 Kcal, potassium 260 mg, iron 20 mg, magnesium 275 mg and polyphenols 60.12 mg. The values indicate that roasted sunflower seeds Katli (30%) is a very good source of nutrients for the growth and development of children. Therefore, formulations based on locally available produce having no harmful effect on the health of children, is the need of the hour. ','Sunflower seeds Katli, Complementary foods, Sensory Evaluation and Nutritional composition','The study revealed that the roasted sunflower seeds Katli, which contains (30%) sunflower seeds flour, was approved. Sensory evaluation and moisture content testing showed that the product had excellent keeping qualities. Weaning foods are made to provide nutrient-dense, safe, low-fat nutrition for infants and young children because improved complementary feeding with reduced morbidity is necessary to achieve the Millennium Development Goals (MDGs) for child survival and the prevention of malnutrition.','-','Bhavana A., Usha Ravindra and Soumya Hiregoudar (2023). Formulation of Roasted Sunflower Seeds (Helianthus annuus L.) Katli: A Promising Complementary Food for Children. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 15(6): 586-591.'),(6869,'159','A Green Audit of the Institution: A Step Towards Environmental Sustainability','Cherkupally Rama Raju, Munagala Alivelu, Gurram Lingareddy, V. Karunakar and Samaleti Priyanka','A-Green-Audit-of-the-Institution-A-Step-Towards-Environmental-Sustainability-Munagala-Alivelu-90.pdf','',1,'Green auditing of the institution is crucial in order to assess the environmental performance of educational institutions and to consider potential options for turning the educational campus into an eco-campus. The MKR Government Degree College, Devarakonda, has undergone a green audit to evaluate its environmental impact. The main focus of this green audit is on the consumption of energy in terms of electricity and fossil fuels, soil and water quality, vegetation, waste management procedures, and the campus carbon footprint. To learn more about the resources on campus and their consumption, a questionnaire survey was first carried out. Water and soil samples were taken from various sites on the college campus and analyzed for their characteristics. The gathered information was sorted, tallied, and examined to give a report on the environment with recommendations. It is observed that drinking water sources need to be routinely treated and monitored to eliminate possible threats to both human and animal health. ','Energy Management, Water Management, Plantation, Vermi compost','Innovative concepts for managing wastewater have been implemented by the institution. It will be meaningful to mention the compost that is used as fertilizer because this process contributes to our campus\'s successful waste management system. It is noteworthy that rainwater harvesting systems were installed. In addition, the administration\'s environmental awareness programs demonstrate how the campus is becoming greener. The threat posed by environmentally friendly and scientific waste management was managed with a few additional recommendations. These successful efforts will unquestionably result in a prosperous future for the environment and community development on Green Campus. International accords (such as the Kyoto Protocol and European 20, 20, 20) encourage all nations to take action to hasten the process of increasing the energy efficiency of the residential sector, which in the European Union is responsible for more than 40% of total energy consumption from fossil fuels.','-','Cherkupally Rama Raju, Munagala Alivelu, Gurram Lingareddy, V. Karunakar and Samaleti Priyanka (2023). A Green Audit of the Institution: A Step Towards Environmental Sustainability. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 15(6): 592-598.'),(6870,'159','Isolation and Biochemical Characterisation of Food Born Pathogens Listeria Monocytogenes from Beverages','Keshamma E.','Isolation-and-Biochemical-Characterisation-of-Food-Born-Pathogens-Listeria-Monocytogenes-from-Beverages-Keshamma-E-91.pdf','',1,'Listeriosis in human is very often associated with very high mortality, and clinical cases of listeriosis in humans caused by Listeria monocytogenes. Hence, current study was undertaken with the prime objective of isolation and characterization of food borne pathogens L. monocytogenes from different soft drinks sold at local market outlets in the city of Chikkaballapura, Karnataka. Samples comprising of different types of locally soft drinks were collected aseptically and subjected to serial dilution and inoculated to nutrient agar medium, Palcam selective agar base medium and Tryptic soy broth. The growth with the typical colony characteristics were further identified up to species level based on their morphological and biochemical characteristics. The bacteria isolated from different soft beverages was found to be gram positive bacilli, non-motile, showed positive for catalase, methyl red, and Voges Proskauer, CAMP tests. Whereas, isolated strains were negative for oxidase, indole, and citrate utilization tests. Based on the morphological and biochemical characterization isolated strain was identified as L. monocytogenes. In conclusion, results of the presented study suggested that L. monocytogenes is prevalent in beverages samples and sheds new light on the growth of food pathogens and spoilage microbes in a variety of beverages that are increased in popularity worldwide. These findings could be considered in estimating the risk associated with the production and consumption of beverages.','Beverages, L. monocytogenes, Morphology, Biochemical tests, Softdrinks','The findings of the study lead to new light on the growth of food pathogens and spoilage microbes in a variety of beverages that are growing in popularity across the globe and suggested that L. monocytogenes is common in beverage samples. These results might be taken into account when calculating the risk connected to beverage production and consumption.','-','Keshamma E. (2023). Isolation and Biochemical Characterisation of Food Born Pathogens Listeria Monocytogenes from Beverages. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 15(6): 599-602.'),(6871,'159','Effect of Stocking Density on Growth Performance and Survival of Brackish Water Fish Seabass (Lates calcarifer) in Floating Net Cages','G. Ganesh, A. Chandrasekhara Rao, Gora Shiva Prasad, Sangram Keshari Rout and Sulav Mandal','Effect-of-Stocking-Density-on-Growth-Performance-and-Survival-of-Brackish-Water-Fish-Seabass-(Lates-calcarifer)-in-Floating-Net-Cages-G-Ganesh-92.pdf','',1,'The aim of the study was to determine the effect of stocking density on the growth performance and survival rate of seabass (Lates calcarifer) fingerlings in floating net cages and experiment was conducted at the closed bay near Suryalanka, Bapatla, Guntur, Andhra Pradesh. Triplicate group of sea bass with an average initial weight of 10.28±1.08g were stocked randomly in floating net cages (1m×1m×2m) at 4,6,8 and 10 fish/m3 designated as SD4, SD6, SD8 and SD10, respectively. The fish fingerlings were fed with a 35% CP formulated diet at 5% body weight twice daily. At the end of the experiment on the 90th day, the growth performance of the fish in terms of weight gain, specific growth rate, feed conversion ratio, protein efficiency ratio and survival rate were calculated. During the investigation period, better quality of sea bass were produced and water quality parameters were optimal in the cages with an average stocking density of 4 fish/m3.','Cage culture, Brackishwater, Seabass, Stocking density, Growth','Asian seabass, Lates calcarifer, is a euryhaline, protandric hermaphrodite, carnivorous fish with a cannibalistic character. It is a relatively hardy species that tolerate crowding and has wide physiological tolerance, including high turbidity, varying salinities and temperature. The current study shows that the optimum stocking density for Seabass (Lates calcarifer) culture is 4/m3 in floating net cages. The cages stocked at 4 fish/m3 exhibited the optimum levels of Water quality parameters during the entire study period. ','-','G. Ganesh, A. Chandrasekhara Rao, Gora Shiva Prasad, Sangram Keshari Rout and Sulav Mandal (2023). Effect of Stocking Density on Growth Performance and Survival of Brackish Water Fish Seabass (Lates calcarifer) in Floating Net Cages. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 15(6): 603-609.'),(6872,'157','Challenge of Depression in Patients Suffering from Cancer and its Management','Dhingra P., Khanduri P. and Singh S.','Challenge-of-Depression-in-Patients-Suffering-from-Cancer-and-its-Management-Dhingra-P-181.pdf','',1,'Diagnosis of cancer in patients impact their lives in many ways, from the way of their thinking to the way of their living, it almost changes everything. Despite from the disease (cancer) deteriorating their physical health, the mental trauma that the patient gets, also become a part of it, as this diagnosis not just diagnose cancer in the patients, but also make patients depressed, anxious and worried about this. Psychiatric disorders like delirium, depression, anxiety etc. are found comparatively higher among those patients suffering from advance stages cancer, when compared to those suffering from early cancer stages. Factors like lifestyle issues, substance use, or past history/family history of any kind of depression, increases the risk of developing depression in cancer patients, which contributes in increased rate of mortality in them. This depression can also be associated with levels of pain or type of medical treatment that the patient is getting for cancer. Antidepressant treatment drugs like selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs), and methylphenidate have been found helpful in improvement of depression in patients of cancer when given as adjuvant treatments. Selection of appropriate antidepressant treatment is also suggested due to drug interaction that can be caused with chemotherapeutic drugs and interfere with the chemotherapy. The main challenge is to diagnose the severity of depression in severely depressed patients, due to which underestimation of the disease symptoms may result in poor treatment of the patients.','Psychiatric disorders, chemotherapy, malignant, depression, psychoeducation','It is evident that depression is very common in cancer patients, which causes anxiety, demotivate patient, cause sadness, develops suicidal thoughts (in severe cases), and may also contribute in cancer progression or morbidity. There are some non-pharmacological methods that can be implemented for cancer patients suffering from mild depression, however, should not be relied upon for moderate to severe cases of depression in patients suffering from cancer. Antidepressant provides hope for patient to cope up with depression. It is also evident that antidepressant are also effective for depression in cancer patients who are suffering from depressive symptoms. However, there is no strong evidence that this adjuvant treatment with antidepressants increases the survival time of cancer patients, but antidepressants when used as adjuvant treatments, can definitely help in achieving a better quality of life in cancer patients.','-','Dhingra P., Khanduri P. and Singh S. (2023). Challenge of Depression in Patients Suffering from Cancer and its Management. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 15(5): 1218-1221.'),(6873,'157','Ethnobotanical Appraisal on Selected Gamopetalae Plant Species from Saharanpur, Uttar Pradesh','Yogendra Kumar and Kanchan Awasthi','Ethnobotanical-Appraisal-on-Selected-Gamopetalae-Plant-Species-from-Saharanpur,-Uttar-Pradesh-Yogendra-Kumar-182.pdf','',1,'The present ethnobotanical study was conducted in rural parts of district Saharanpur in the state of Uttar Pradesh to obtain information on utilization of medicinal plants by the local inhabitants to treat their various health problems. This traditional knowledge plays key role in maintaining health care system in rural areas. The information has been recorded and documented for 54 Gamopetalae plant species. In order to obtain ethnobotanical information, a number of group discussions and the open interviews were organized to interact with local inhabitants. The study recorded the indigenous use of medicinal plants by the local people of this area for the treatment of various diseases. The study area has rich biodiversity of medicinal plants but due to the lack of awareness and proper monitoring about cultivation, harvesting and sustainable utilization, these valuable plant resources are declining very fast. In addition, the indigenous traditional knowledge regarding the use of valuable medicinal plants of this region is also declining rapidly. Therefore, documentation of this traditional knowledge is an important step to ensure sustainable utilization and conservation of valuable medicinal plant resources. The prime objective of this study was the documentation of floristic diversity and traditional knowledge of plant resources that are used by local inhabitants of the study area for curing various ailments. The most preferred plant part for medicinal purposes was the leaves followed by root and other parts.','Gamopetalae, ethnobotanical, traditional use, monitoring, local inhabitants, sustainable utilization','In recent years, as a result of environmental degradation and modernization of social systems, significant changes are observed in various aspects of ethno medicine. Because of these factors, the system of traditional knowledge in India is degrading at very fast rate. Hence, there is urgent need of necessary steps to document all valuable traditional information among the various ethnic groups before it vanishes. It is evident from the present study that the indigenous ethnomedicinal knowledge is still in alive state in this region as the phytomedicines are still using by the local people to treat their various health problems. A total of 54 medicinal plant species from Gamopetalae group were collected and their significance in the treatment of different diseases is documented. The major life form used for medicine was the herb and leaf was the principal useful part. These plants possess enormous potentials for the preparation of commercially important pharmaceutical products but this plant wealth is declining day by day due to the lack of proper documentation and awareness in younger generation. Therefore, paying special attention on identification and conservation of medicinally important plant resources is an essential requirement of today in order to maintain our rich traditional ethnobotanical knowledge of medicinal plants. Success can be achieved by motivating younger generation towards identification, cultivation and conservation of medicinal plants in this area.','-','Yogendra Kumar and Kanchan Awasthi (2023). Ethnobotanical Appraisal on Selected Gamopetalae Plant Species from Saharanpur, Uttar Pradesh. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 15(5): 1222-1229.'),(6874,'157','Prevalence of Extended Spectrum Β-Lactamse Producing, Antibiotic Resistant Escherichia coli in Fresh Fish and Fish Waste in Retail Fish Markets of Navi Mumbai, India','Niroli Roopa, Rathod Vandana, Talloli Narmada, Samruddhi Joshi and Dhananjay Desai ','Prevalence-of-Extended-Spectrum-Β-Lactamse-Producing,-Antibiotic-Resistant-Escherichia-coli-in-Fresh-Fish-and-Fish-Waste-in-Retail-Fish-Markets-of-Navi-Mumbai,-India-Vandana-Rathod-183.pdf','',1,'Transmission of antimicrobial genes through chain remain major public threat globally. Antibiotic susceptibility patterns of Escherichia coli were studied on fresh seafood found in retail market. ESBL E. coli isolated from 430 (fresh fish, fish waste and associated environment) fresh fish samples were examined in light of the phenotypic traits associated with antibiotic resistance. Of them, 60 ESBL positive E. coli were isolated. A large number of isolates were amoxicillin-resistant (98.4%), cefepime (91.9%), and both cefepime and ceftazidime (91.1%). Relatively higher susceptibilities were recorded against colistin (100%) cefotaxime-clavulanic acid and amoxyclav each with 85.5% respectively. All 60 isolates showed resistance to more than 03 antibiotics. Two isolates EC01 and EC59 showed resistance to 14 antibiotics. MIC values of 87% isolates were 1024μg/ml of cefotaxime. E-test showed resistance against multi enzyme MICTM strips for 20 isolates. The Multiple Antibiotic Resistance Index for the 60 isolates ranged from 0.2 to 0.87, showing that sources with a high risk of contamination had the highest levels of contamination. These studies reveal more prevalence of E. coli in fish waste samples than fresh fish. Thus, it draws attention to the threat of the spread of communities of seafood consumers who ingest multidrug resistant E. coli as well as the necessity of improving the sanitation of coastal waterways, retail markets, and landing areas. The present study gives direct contribution in monitoring antimicrobial gene in aquaculture value chain.','Beta lactamase, E. coli, Seafood, MIC, Antibiotic Resistance','Studies on antimicrobial resistance in E. coli from food animals thereby contaminating humans has drawn special attention towards migration of resistance gene from animal to human through close association with animal reservoirs is limited and no such deep cohort studies in India are prevailing. Such studies are of urgent need due to the environment and public health concern. Pathogen resistance to new generation cephalosporins could present significant difficulties. To stop the spread of antibiotic resistance in coastal waters in such a scenario, efficient management measures must be employed. These studies therefore highlight the requirement for a thorough analysis of the application of antibiotics and growth promoters in the food and animal production chains.','-','Niroli Roopa, Rathod Vandana, Talloli Narmada, Samruddhi Joshi and Dhananjay Desai (2023). Prevalence of Extended Spectrum Β-Lactamse Producing, Antibiotic Resistant Escherichia coli in Fresh Fish and Fish Waste in Retail Fish Markets of Navi Mumbai, India. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 15(5): 1230-1237.'),(6875,'159','Insecticidal activity of Epipremnum aureum (Araceae) Leaf extract against the Immature Stages of the Rice Moth Corcyra cephalonica Stainton, 1866 (Lepidoptera: Pyralidae)','Justin Kumar, Grace Marin, Subramanian Arivoli and Samuel Tennyson','Insecticidal-activity-of-Epipremnum-aureum-(Araceae)-Leaf-extract-against-the-Immature-Stages-of-the-Rice-Moth-Corcyra-cephalonica-Stainton,-1866-(Lepidoptera-Pyralidae)-Samuel-Tennyson-93.pdf','',1,'Losses in rice storage due to insect pests drastically affects the food, and one of the serious pests is the rice moth, Corcyra cephalonica. Influence of synthetic chemical insecticides has been reported against this pest. Contrary to the chemical insecticides, botanical insecticides or biopesticides derived from plants have been touted as potential alternatives. In the present study, aqueous leaf extract of Epipremnum aureum was tested for its efficacy for the first time against the immature stages of Corcyra cephalonica at concentrations of 1, 2, 5, 10 and 15% by petridish bioassay method with minor alterations. Significant ovicidal activity with percent egg mortality of 57.3, 65.3, 88.0, 92.0 and 96.0; 36.0, 50.6, 62.6, 82.6 and 92.0; 26.6, 36.0, 37.3, 66.6 and 84.0 was achieved at concentrations of 1, 2, 5, 10 and 15% for the eggs of age 24, 48 and 72 hours, and their respective LC50 values were 0.81, 2.03 and 4.28%. However, poor larvicidal activity was noted as they were not able to cause 50% mortality even after 96 hours of exposure. On the basis of the results of the present study, further research is required to explore the phytochemical constituents present in Epipremnum aureum leaf extract responsible for the ovicidal activity against Corcyra cephalonica.','Corcyra cephalonica, ovicidal, larvicidal, Epipremnum aureum, aqueous leaf extract','Though the present study being the first report exposed Epipremnum aureum aqueous leaf extracts to exhibit significant ovicidal activity, but at the same time, it is to be noted that they showed poor larvicidal activity. ','-','Justin Kumar, Grace Marin, Subramanian Arivoli and Samuel Tennyson (2023). Insecticidal activity of Epipremnum aureum (Araceae) Leaf extract against the Immature Stages of the Rice Moth Corcyra cephalonica Stainton, 1866(Lepidoptera: Pyralidae). Biological Forum – An International Journal, 15(6): 610-617.'),(6876,'153','A General Review of Sexually Transmitted Diseases (STDs) in Theoretical and Mathematical Modeling Aspects','Prakash Narayan, Kunwer Singh Mathur, Bhagwan Kumar and Rashmi Mathur','A General Review of Sexually Transmitted Diseases (STDs) in Theoretical and Mathematical Modeling Aspects-Kunwer Singh Mathur-8.pdf','',1,'The present article gives a general overview of sexually transmitted diseases (STDs). There are several diseases that can often transmit through sexual routes. Some other routes are also responsible for the spread of the infections. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), some most common STDs having a very high impact on developing and developed countries are AIDS (acquired immunodeficiency syndrome); Hepatitis B; HPV (Human Papillomavirus infection); Candidiasis; Syphilis; Genital Herpes; Chlamydia; Gonorrhea; Trichomoniasis. Therefore, in this article, we discuss these STDs from theoretical as well as mathematical points of view. We found some shortages and some important ideas for the mathematical modeling of these STDs.','HIV, AIDS, STDs, AVERT, Mathematical modeling','In mathematical epidemiology, understanding the influence of information on people\'s behavior during disease outbreaks and incorporating it into models is crucial. HIV/AIDS models should include strategies like PrEP, PEP, education, counseling, and premarital HIV testing. Similarly, for Hepatitis B, models need to consider intracellular processes and immune response. Preventive measures beyond vaccination, such as condom use and awareness campaigns, should be included in HPV models. Mathematical models for candidiasis, syphilis, and co-infections require development, along with incorporating outcomes like HSV-1, neonatal herpes, and HIV. Models accounting for sexual activity, age-related infection rates, and time delay can enhance transmission dynamics understanding. Co-infection models for gonorrhea and trichomoniasis are needed to address infertility and PID severity.','-','Prakash Narayan, Kunwer Singh Mathur, Bhagwan Kumar and Rashmi Mathur (2023). A General Review of Sexually Transmitted Diseases (STDs) in Theoretical and Mathematical Modeling Aspects. International Journal on Emerging Technologies, 14(1): 42–51.'),(6877,'157','Analysis of Physico-chemical Parameters of Surinsar Lake, Jammu (J&K)','Kunal Sharma, Sapana Jangral, Meenu Sharma, Sarbjeet Kour and K.K. Sharma ','Analysis-of-Physico-chemical-Parameters-of-Surinsar-Lake,-Jammu-(J&K)-Kunal-Sharma-184.pdf','',1,'Water is the vital substance which is quite essential for plants, animals and humans. Without water, no organism in the world would exist. But, the water quality is depleting these days due to chemicals, pesticides, waste, garbage, etc. posing threat to aquatic life and humans. Therefore, there is need of sustainable use of water resources and water quality is crucial feature to measure purity and quality of water. The present study was undertaken to determine stress on Surinsar lake. For this, water quality was analysed by studying abiotic parameters of lake for one year from May, 2013 to April, 2014. The various parameters viz., temperature, pH, dissolved oxygen, free carbon dioxide, carbonates, bicarbonates, biochemical oxygen demand, chloride, calcium, magnesium, sulphate, nitrate and phosphate were estimated. Correlation coefficient expressed significant positive and negative trends indicating pollution load. The results revealed high values of free carbon dioxide, bicarbonates and chloride which also pointed towards neglectance of this Ramsar site. The present study has emphasised the need to raise awareness among the masses for conservation and management of Surinsar lake to maintain the purity of lake.','Abiotic, Surinsar, Chloride, Magnesium, Correlation','The present work was performed with detailed investigation of physico-chemical parameters of Surinsar lake. The lake is found to be under stress as parameters viz. dissolved oxygen, free carbon dioxide and biochemical oxygen demand were beyond the prescribed limits. The surface run-off, waste discharge, cattle bathing, washing, neglectance by the inhabitants, tourism stress, etc. may be the factors for the present status of lake waters. There should be an awareness drive to protect it. It is our duty to protect the lake from further deterioration which holds international stature. Water quality of lake can further be improved by fencing the lake which prohibits the anthropogenic pressure along the lake. Individual efforts would not work but all stakeholders including NGOs, govt. and community members have to come forward for this herculean task to accomplish.','-','Kunal Sharma, Sapana Jangral, Meenu Sharma, Sarbjeet Kour and K.K. Sharma (2023). Analysis of Physico-chemical Parameters of Surinsar Lake, Jammu (J&K). Biological Forum – An International Journal, 15(6): 1238-1242.'),(6878,'157','Update on Treatment Protocols in Breast Carcinoma','Kumar A., Singh V.P. and Singh S.','Update-on-Treatment-Protocols-in-Breast-Carcinoma-Kumar-A-185.pdf','',1,'The treatment protocols of carcinoma is dependent upon disease staging, tumor characteristics such as- metastasis, status of molecular markers like ER, PR and HER2 new. Treatment protocols involve, surgery, chemotherapy and radiotherapies and combinations of all three. This review article deals with various chemotherapeutic protocols which are being tested under various clinical trials and their mechanisms of actions. Standard chemotherapy treatments lack the ability to distinguish between healthy cells and cancerous cells. As a result, they can lead to significant side effects that are frequently more distressing than the actual cancer. Also, recent advancement as immunotherapy inclusion has also been included. We will now provide an overview of the ongoing efforts in developing dynamic biomarkers for treatment response. ','Breast carcinoma, chemotherapy, protocols, treatment. Modified radical mastectomies, breast conserving surgeries, oncoplastic breast surgery','Chemotherapeutic protocols in various stages of breast carcinoma are met by challenges such as induction of side effects, development of drug resistance and also, residual disease. During last few years, multiple protocols have been studied and experimented upon in form of clinical trials to test the efficacy as well as less morbid situations. Recently, immunotherapy has been ventured upon but promising results are yet to be ascertained. Thus, it remains a subject of continuous trials where the challenge of reducing the disease burden remains.','-','Kumar A., Singh V.P. and Singh S. (2023). Update on Treatment Protocols in Breast Carcinoma. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 15(5): 1243-1246.'),(6879,'156','Genetic variability and Selection Parameters for Green Pod Yield in Table Pea (Pisum sativum L. var. hortense)','Pratyksh Pandey, K.P. Singh, Harshit Tripathi, H.C. Singh, Pawan Kumar Saini, Rajiv, Lokendra Singh and P.K. Singh ','Genetic-variability-and-Selection-Parameters-for-Green-Pod-Yield-in-Table-Pea-(Pisum-sativum-L.-var.-hortense)-Harshit-Tripathi-138.pdf','',1,'An experiment consisting 43 diverse genotypes of table pea derived from 10 lines and 3 testers (13 parents + 30 F1s) were evaluated in a randomized block design replicated thrice at Vegetable Research Farm of C. S. Azad University of Ag. & Tech., Kanpur, (U.P.) during Rabi of 2020-21. The data were collected on days to 50% per cent flowering, node number of first flower, inter-nodal length, number of primary branches, days to first picking of pods, average pod length, number of pods per plant, average pod weight, number of seeds per pod, average plant height, seed shell per cent, green pod yield per plant.\r\nThe result showed high level of genetic variability both for genotypic and phenotypic coefficients. Highest PCV and GCV was noted for plant height followed by number of primary branches, number of pods per plant and average pod weight and green pod yield per plant based on F1 while it was lowest for seed shell per cent, days to first picking of pods, average pod length and days to 50% flowering. High heritability in broad sense was noted for all the characters. The genetic advance was high for plant height, days to 50% flowering, number of pods per plant and days to first picking of pods, the highest genetic gain in the tune of 73.10% for plant height followed by number of primary branches (48.89%) and average pod weight (48.45%) and number of pods per plant (48.11%) at 5% selection intensity over mean.\r\nSimple selection procedure followed by pedigree method will be more appropriate for improving the green pod yield while making selection.\r\n','Table pea, Pisum sativum, genetic variability, heritability, genetic advance, selection parameters','From this study it can be generally indicated that there was plenty of genetic variability among the genotypes. Thus, there is vast opportunity in the improvement these table pea genotypes. Therefore, the results and information generated from current study need to be used by interested plant breeders. Studies revealed that the green pod yield per plant, Average pod weight and number of pods per plant with high heritability and high genetic advance were the major yield attributing characters so emphasis should be given for these characters at the time of simple selection.','-','Pratyksh Pandey, K.P. Singh, Harshit Tripathi, H.C. Singh, Pawan Kumar Saini, Rajiv, Lokendra Singh and P.K. Singh (2023). Genetic variability and Selection Parameters for Green Pod Yield in Table Pea (Pisum sativum L. var. hortense). Biological Forum – An International Journal, 15(4): 829-833.'),(6880,'150','Genetic Analysis for Green Pod Yield in Table Pea (Pisum sativum L. var. hortense)','Pratyksh Pandey, K.P. Singh, Harshit Tripathi, H.C. Singh, Pawan Kumar Saini, Budhesh Pratap Singh, R.B. Singh and Arun Kumar Verma ','Genetic-Analysis-for-Green-Pod-Yield-in-Table-Pea-(Pisum-sativum-L.-var.-hortense)-Harshit-Tripathi-118.pdf','',1,'An experiment consisting 43 diverse genotypes of table pea including 10 lines, 3 testers and their F1s were evaluated during Rabi 2020-21 at Vegetable Research Farm, Kalyanpur of C. S. Azad University of Agriculture and Technology, Kanpur. Highly significant mean squares differences were observed due to lines, testers, F1s, line×tester and parents vs. F1s for green pod yield and its contributing characters i.e. days to 50% flowering, node number of first flower, inter-nodal length, number of primary branches, days to first picking of pods, average pod length, number of pods per plant, average pod weight, number of seeds per pod, plant height, seed shell per cent. The mean square due to GCA and SCA were also highly significant for all characters. The estimates of 𝜎2sca were higher than respective 𝜎2gca for all the characters except days to 50% flowering, node number of first flower, average pod length and plant height. All the characters showed higher magnitude of 𝜎2s than 𝜎2g on pooled basis also.\r\nGenotypes namely KS-701 (14.72), AP-5 (13.66) and GS-10 (2.29) were as good general combiners based on GCA effect and mean performance. The cross combination KS-702×GS-10was found best specific cross combination for maximum green pod yield per plant, followed by AP-1×AP-3 (24.67), KS-701×GS-10 (22.06) and AP-1×C-18-3 (19.37). The specific cross combinations namely; KS-602×C-18-3, KS-802×GS-10, KS-801×AP-3 and AP-4×C-18-3 were desirable for early flowering. KS-702, KS-221and KS-701 were the good general combiners for early flowering.\r\n','Table pea, Pisum sativum, Line×Tester, hybrids, GCA and SCA','Form present investigation highly significant variances for both general and specific combining abilities were found for all the characters which indicated that both additive and non-additive gene effects are important. The values of GCA and SCA ratio estimates were observed less than unity for all the studied characters. The conclusion can be framed as information on GCA effects should be supplemented by SCA effects and performance of crosses to predict the transgressive segregants in segregating generations. Seed yield isa quantitative, complex character and due to predominance of non-additive gene action, it would be appreciable to resort to breeding methodologies, such as recurrent selection, biparental mating, and diallel selective mating than to use of backcross techniques or conventional pedigree method.','-','Pratyksh Pandey, K.P. Singh, Harshit Tripathi, H.C. Singh, Pawan Kumar Saini, Budhesh Pratap Singh, R.B. Singh and Arun Kumar Verma (2023). Genetic Analysis for Green Pod Yield in Table Pea (Pisum sativum L. var. hortense). Biological Forum – An International Journal, 15(3): 754-758.'),(6881,'157','Study on Morphological and Genetic Variations among Vegetable Cowpea [Vigna unguiculata (L.) Walp.] Genotypes in North-Eastern Ghat Region of India','Dipankar Barik, Subhrajyoti Chatterjee and Pritismita Nayak','Study-on-Morphological-and-Genetic-Variations-among-Vegetable-Cowpea-[Vigna-unguiculata-(L.)-Walp.]-Genotypes-in-North-Eastern-Ghat-Region-of-India-Subhrajyoti-Chatterjee-186.pdf','',1,'In the present study, 10 morphological and 11 quantitative characters were recorded from 21 varieties of vegetable cowpea. The overall mean value of Shannon-Weaver diversity index was 1.276 which confirmed the existence of diversity among the genotypes. The genotypes ‘CP-738’, ‘Kashi Kanchan’, ‘CP-1116’, ‘CP-863’, ‘EC-202526’, ‘Arka Garima’ and ‘IC-39856’ were found most promising in respect to green pod yield per plant. Among various parameters of variability, high coefficients of variation (phenotypic and genotypic) were found for the characters pod length, number of green pods per plant, 10 green pod weight and green pod yield per plant. High heritability coupled with high genetic advance as per cent of mean was observed for days to first flowering, days to 50% flowering, pod length, pod diameter, number of green pods per plant, 10 green pod weight, protein content and green pod yield per plant indicated that these traits are predominantly governed by additive gene, so early generation selection would be rewarding for improving these traits. Number of green pods per plant, pod diameter and 10 green pod weight should be considered as the most important selection indices for enhancing green pod yield in cowpea. ','Cowpea, Shannon-Weaver diversity index, Genetic variability, Selection indices','The present study illustrated significant variation among genotypes for both qualitative and quantitative traits. The overall mean of Shannon-Weaver diversity index (H) value of 1.276 amply suggest the existence of diversity among the genotypes under study. Days to first flowering, days to 50% flowering, pod length, pod diameter, number of green pods per plant, 10 green pod weight, protein content and green pod yield per plant exhibited high heritability in conjunction with high genetic advance which suggests that the characters concerned are conditioned by additive gene action and therefore, these characters would be more reliable for effective selection. The maximum positive direct effects were exerted by number of green pods per plant, pod diameter and 10 pod weight on green pod yield per plant. The genotypes ‘CP-738’, ‘Kashi Kanchan’, ‘CP-1116’, ‘CP-863’, ‘EC-202526’, ‘Arka Garima’ and ‘IC-39856’ were found most promising in respect to green pod yield per plant. ','-','Dipankar Barik, Subhrajyoti Chatterjee and Pritismita Nayak (2023). Study on Morphological and Genetic Variations among Vegetable Cowpea [Vigna unguiculata (L.) Walp.] Genotypes in North-Eastern Ghat Region of India. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 15(5): 1247-1255.'),(6882,'159','A Review on Bioactives from Plants against Diabetes mellitus','Biswa Prasun Chatterji, Aarya P. Suthar and Rupasree Mukhopadhyay','A-Review-on-Bioactives-from-Plants-against-Diabetes-mellitus-Rupasree-Mukhopadhyay-94.pdf','',1,'It has been reported that 25% of world population is affected by diabetes. Diabetes may become the 7th leading cause of death by the year 2030 as reported by World Health Organization (WHO). Among the two different types of diabetes, Type 2 diabetes is known to be treated as well as prevented in a much easier way as compared to the type 1 diabetes. Extensive studies in medical field show that both synthetic drugs and phytochemicals have been used to treat diabetes. However, the synthetic chemical-based drugs have various side effects hampering the general health of the patients, while the phytochemicals (which are mostly secondary metabolites with bioactive properties) have fewer side effects and are also less expensive as compared to synthetic ones. Further, to act as an efficient remedy for diabetes, the binding ability of the phytochemical to a target molecule is a very important criterion.\r\nThis review is targeted towards discussing the scopes and applications of various secondary compounds from different types of plants, mainly belonging to the groups of alkaloids, flavonoids, terpenoids& phenolic acids, as an alternative and efficient treatment to diabetes. The study also discusses various results of effects of phytochemicals such as neferine, sanguinarine, indole-type alkaloids, naringenin, catechins, morin, silymarin, anthocyanin, celastrol, gallic acid, caffeic acid, etc. on diabetic rats and describes their mechanism of action. Some recent discoveries about phytochemicals such as teuhetenone A, sulforaphane and chelerythrine as potential antidiabetics have also been brought to light. The targets for antidiabetic molecules were also discussed. An overall perspective of the alternative use of bioactive plant metabolites for treating diabetes will contribute to the future herbal medicine and Ayurveda significantly. Many of these molecules are pre -clinical studies and require further testing in animal model or clinical trials for safety and toxicity. The safety of the herbal medicine is of prime importance because not all phytochemicals are free of side effects. However, this review serves as a catalog of novel experimental antidiabetic phytochemicals with a potential to be used therapeutically in future.\r\n','Diabetes mellitus, antidiabetic, phytochemicals, target molecules, alkaloids, flavonoids, terpenoids','Various plants have been identified whose extracts show hypoglycaemic effects. The antidiabetic effect of plants is attributed to the mixture of phytochemicals or single components of the plant extracts. The phytochemicals responsible for antidiabetic properties mainly are alkaloids, phenolic acids, flavonoids, glycosides, saponins, polysaccharides, stilbenes, and tannins. \r\nIndividual compounds from different classes of chemicals have been tested on alloxan-induced T2DM rats and their effectiveness has been described. This has also showed us how due to the diversity of phytochemicals, there is a diversity in the mechanism of action in each compound. They affect various pathways, enzymes by either inhibiting an action; or stimulating it. This results in either an increase in the uptake of glucose or the secretion of insulin. The mode of action of these antidiabetic phytochemicals has been described in detail here. Diverse mechanisms are described, explaining the beneficial effects of phytochemicals, such as regulation of glucose and lipid metabolism, insulin secretion, stimulating β cells, NF-kB signaling pathway, inhibition of gluconeogenic enzymes, and ROS protective action. Here, we compiled different plant extracts and their active compounds with their hypoglycemic action and specific drug target.\r\nKnowing the various types of plants that are abundant with these phytochemicals shows us that the sources are not limited. They can be found in various fruits, nuts, vegetables; various families such as Lamiaceae, Cucurbitaceae, Moraceae, Euphorbiaceae, Leguminoseae, Liliaceae, Asteraceae, Rosaceae and Araliaceae, etc. Since these compounds do not have to be synthesized pharmaceutically, and only need to be extracted from particular plants, it also makes them cheaper as drugs as opposed to the synthetic ones. The most important reason for considering phytochemicals is the inability of synthetic drugs in reversing the diabetic condition, being able to work only in specific environments such as only in presence of insulin or causing side effects such as reducing post-prandial blood sugar levels, slower absorption and binding to non-specific receptors.\r\nAs mentioned in the review, certain phytochemicals have been found that show almost no side effects. Their diversity in the mechanism of action puts aside the setback of being able to work only in specific conditions. Whether they will be able to completely reverse the diabetic condition may be unknown. But, treating DM with plant-derived compounds, which are accessible and do not require laborious pharmaceutical synthesis, seems highly attractive.\r\n','-','Biswa Prasun Chatterji, Aarya P. Suthar and Rupasree Mukhopadhyay (2023). A Review on Bioactives from Plants against Diabetes. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 15(6): 618-627.'),(6883,'157','Effect of Scapular Stabilisation Exercises on Chronic Neck Pain among Precision Workers – A Randomised Control Trial','Senthilkumar M., Ramya K., Prabhakaradoss D., Mallika S. and Baskaran A.','Effect-of-Scapular-Stabilisation-Exercises-on-Chronic-Neck-Pain-among-Precision-Workers-–-A-Randomosed-Control-Trial-Senthilkumar-M-187.pdf','',1,'Chronic neck pain is a commonly occurring musculoskeletal strain that occurs among precision workers (skilled workers working in the field of silver and gold jewellery manufacturing). This is mainly due to their work nature that demands forward bending of head and neck for extended time. The major postural change is identified as Forward Head Posture that causes muscular imbalance both in cervical spine and shoulder. Physiotherapy treatment aims at reducing the muscular imbalance and correcting the posture. This study was conducted among 34 male participants from Shevapet, (an area well known for jewellery business), Salem and evaluates the effect of commonly used thermotherapy and scapular stabilization exercises for a period of 2 weeks in reducing the chronic neck pain and restoring normal posture among the precision workers. The outcome measures of the study are pain, pressure threshold and posture assessed through Northwick Park Pain questionnaire, Neck Disability Index and Cranio Vertebral angle. The study revealed a significant reduction in Neck Pain and CV angle in the group that received scapular stabilization exercises. The authors suggest that correction of FHP is critical and primary for any treatment that aims to reduce chronic neck pain among precision workers. There were challenges in reaching the subjects if they were absent at the work place. The authors had to call on their number to and check with them. But the subjects were willing to take the intervention on the following day of their leave.','Chronic Neck Pain, Forward Head Posture, Neck Exercise, Scapular exercises, Neck Disability','The results of the study make us conclude that the scapular stabilisation exercises reduce chronic neck pain among precision workers than the conventional cervical exercises whose job nature demands prolonged bending of neck.','-','Senthilkumar M., Ramya K., Prabhakaradoss D., Mallika S. and Baskaran A. (2023). Effect of Scapular Stabilisation Exercises on Chronic Neck Pain among Precision Workers – A Randomised Control Trial. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 15(5): 1256-1260.'),(6884,'157','Mental Health Challenges: A Study on College going Adolescents at Bhubaneswar, Odisha','Roja Ghosh, Sarita Mishra and Heleena Jati','Mental-Health-Challenges-A-Study-on-College-going-Adolescents-at-Bhubaneswar,-Odisha-Roja-Ghosh-188.pdf','',1,'Mental health is an essential component for well being. The contemporary world has been changing with invention, technology, life style and also create lots of challenges in different spheres. The young energy must be invested in now research, acquiring the skills for industrial requirements and develop competency for the new world. The adolescent age is one of most important phases of life which is the real formative year. This phase of life requires specific attention for the mental health. According to world health organization mental health is a state of well being in which the individual realizes his or her own abilities, can cope with the normal stresses of life, can work with productivity and is able to make contribution to his on her community. Infact mental health depends on many factors including genetics, life experiences, environmental factors and social determinants of health. So, it is highly relevant to understand adolescent health and address the issues related to adolescent mental health. This study has been conducted among the college going adolescents Bhubaneswar, Odisha. The article deals with the concept of mental health, issues related to mental health and adolescent problems. The challenges of the study include lack of time and lack of cooperation of samples as they are reluctant to spare their time and also personal issues which causes mental depression. This study will throw a light to the researchers and society to understand the adolescent problem, issues and their needs. If these problems can be stressed only then the adolescents challenges can be addressed.','Mental health, Adolescent age, Well being, Stress, Depressions','Mental health is the highest quality life indication of every human being. When the mental health and well being is maintained then the quality of life improved. It is evident that mental health affects day to day life, relationships and physical health. Once the imbalance arises it continues and directly and indirectly it affects the life. Adolescent period is considered to be the period of instability so it needs to be given special attention by parents, teachers and community too. It is the most important formative years of life. The study on the adolescent boys and girls provides an interesting facts related to their adolescent problems stress, instability of mind and their life style facts. The following key findings are the facts which will help in preventing the mental health problems. The awareness programs for adolescents and parents, educating the parents and attention of authorities will help in managing the adolescent age and issues of adolescent. The adolescent age is the most significant years of life. It must be nurtured, cared and trained for a better future citizen.','-','Roja Ghosh, Sarita Mishra and Heleena Jati (2023). Mental Health Challenges: A Study on College going Adolescents at Bhubaneswar, Odisha. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 15(5): 1261-1267.'),(6885,'157','Nutritional & Anti-Nutritional and Anti-Oxidative Profiling of Globally Utilized Diverse Seed Coat Color Mustards','Garg, S., Pant, U., Nain, P. and Punetha H.','Nutritional-&-Anti-Nutritional-and-Anti-Oxidative-Profiling-of-Globally-Utilized-Diverse-Seed-Coat-Color-Mustards-Garg-S-189.pdf','',1,'Mustard is widely utilized in diet by people all over the world for its taste and spice based use. However, certain anti-nutritional factors are evidently present in it which limits its use and consumption in both human and animal based diet. Sinapis alba (White seeds), Brassica nigra (Black seeds) and Brassica juncea (Brown seeds) are three genotypes being considered herein for research analysis in their seeds, aimed at screening of anti-nutritional factors like sinapine content, total glucosinolates, phytic acid along with potent anti-oxidative properties like total antioxidant content, ferrous ion chelating activity, reducing activity and DPPH scavenging activity. So the beneficial and non-beneficial aspects of three globally used mustard genotypes are presented hereby which elucidate presence of important fundamental phyto-chemicals and their distribution in different coat color mustard genotypes. The results obtained have deciphered that Brassica juncea is having highest amount of total glucosinolates, methionine and total antioxidative capacity which verifies the fact that methionine is metabolic precursor of glucosinolates and due to which total anti-oxidative capacity is highest in it among three genotypes. The S. alba widely used in European region interestingly carries intermediate values of phytochemicals determined here among black and brown seed mustard genotypes. While, Beta- carotene possesses anti-oxidative properties, its content is found highest in Brassica nigra suggesting its role in scavenging free radicals at higher rates. Meanwhile, the compounds like phytic acid and sinapine esters which are known for generation of free radicals are present contrastingly in highest amounts in the B. nigra. Phytic acid and Sinapine esters also hinders the bioavailability of important nutrients and proteins, while being present overall in varying concentrations in all mustard genotypes limiting their large scale use in fish feed, poultry feed, cattle feed and human based diet. To enhance contribution of mustard in fish feed and poultry feed from 10% and 30% to 70 % and 60%, respectively is the major future challenges need to be addressed and for which primary step is evaluation of key biochemicals. Moreover, the consumption of mustard is also done by humans for which, an evaluation of nutritional and anti-nutritional factors becomes essential.','Anti-nutrients, Brassicaceae, Indian mustard, Phytate, Biochemicals','The white mustard, S. alba holds intermediate values for glucosinolate and sinapine content among the three globally utilized mustard genotypes, analyzed in here for research. The phytic acid content was slightly lower in S. alba in respect to that of B. juncea, while B. nigra was found out to be with least phytic acid content.','-','Garg, S., Pant, U., Nain, P. and Punetha. H. (2023). Nutritional & Anti-Nutritional and Anti-Oxidative Profiling of Globally Utilized Diverse Seed Coat Color Mustards. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 15(5): 1268-1273.'),(6886,'157','A Checklist of the Orchids of Nilgiri Biosphere Reserve, India','Veluswamy Anusuba, Maruthakkutty Murugesan, Mohamed Umer Sharief, Bannari Karthik and Ravichandran Tharani','A-Checklist-of-the-Orchids-of-Nilgiri-Biosphere-Reserve-India-Veluswamy-Anusuba-190.pdf','',1,'From ages, Orchidaceae is considered to be one of the largest family of flowering plants exhibiting enormous species diversity bearing aesthetic and therapeutic values. In the context of rapid global biodiversity decline, orchids are currently christened to be the most threatened taxa due to enhanced anthropogenic threats, inherent rarity and specific conservation needs. Nilgiri Biosphere Reserve (NBR) is the India’s first biosphere reserve and it acts as a connecting link between Western and Eastern Ghats. The present study documents the Orchid diversity of NBR and records about 240 taxa belonging to 72 genera. The species analysis also resulted in enlisting about 113 Indian endemic species belonging to 29 genera, out of which 15 species are strictly endemic to NBR region. It has been observed that most of the orchids are present in the Western Ghats regions of Tamil Nadu and Kerala states of NBR inhabiting the regions of higher elevations and evergreen high-altitude grasslands and these forests provide conducive atmosphere to the orchids to occupy the pristine environment. The present study records in detail the orchid flora of NBR and also suggests the conservation measures which acts as baseline data which is useful for the garden enthusiasts, researchers and orchid conservators. Endemic orchids have also been marked.','Eastern Ghats, Endemic, Orchidaceae, Western Ghats','Orchids are the natural ornamental plants which attract people from diverse groups and Indian orchids are paradoxically victims of their own beauty and popularity (Sangita Das et al, 2021). Peninsular India with its rich orchid diversity, amalgamated with unique topography can be exploited as natural hub for the commercial cultivation of ornamental orchid species both as live materials as well as cut flowers (Jayanthi and Jeewan Singh Jalal, 2023). The present explorations resulted in recording 113 endemic species belonging to 29 genera of which 15 species are strictly endemic to NBR region. Totally 66 species are reported from Tamil Nadu part of NBR, 51 taxa from Kerala part and 25 taxa are from Karnataka part. Most of the dominant species like Habenaria sp., Peristylus sp., are seen in high altitude grasslands, similarly in the Evergreen shola forests, the dominant genera are Oberonia, Porpax, Bulbophyllum, Liparis etc. There are new records like Dendrobium anilii P.M. Salim, J. J. Mathew & Szlach which is an endemic species as a new distributional record for Tamil Nadu (Karuppusamy et al, 2021). Pteroceras viridiflorum (Thwaites) Holttum which is a new record for India collected in Velliangiri hills (Sulaiman et al, 2022). In addition to that Oberonia maxima C.S.P. Parish ex Hook.f., Thrixspermum formosanum (Hayata) Schltr are new records for peninsular India (Kaliamoorthy and Saravanan, 2019). Some of the rare and threatened orchids are Bulbophyllum fuscopurpureum Wight, Bulbophyllum kaitiense (Wight) Rchb.f., Bulbophyllum nodosum (Rolfe) J.J. Sm., Dendrobium anilii P.M. Salim, J. J.Mathew and Szlach, Gastrodia silentvalleyana C.S. Kumar, P.C.S. Kumar, Sibi & S. Anil Kumar, Habenaria polyodon Hook.f. Habenaria richardiana Wight, Plectoglossaperrottetiana (A.Rich.) K.Prasad, Ipsea malabarica (Rchb.f.) Hook.f., Robiquetia josephiana Manilal & C.S. Kumar, Robiquetia gracilis (Lindl.) Garay, etc. From last decade, NBR have witnessed large scale destruction resulting in considerable decline in plant diversity in general and orchid diversity in particular leading to extinction of many of the endemic taxa. Hence, conservation strategies such as in situ, ex situ, cryopreservation, orchidarium maintenance and community efforts assumes greater importance to save the dwindling orchid wealth of NBR. Nevertheless, the present study points out that the orchid flora of NBR provides a baseline data which is very much useful to the horticulturists, garden enthusiasts, researchers and orchid conservators. However, it is obvious that as large number of orchids enjoy an economic status and demand, their exploitation from nature will continue. To reduce this pressure, mass propagation through conventional as well as tissue culture methods would also be an important strategy for orchid germplasm conservation. ','-','Veluswamy Anusuba, Maruthakkutty Murugesan, Mohamed Umer Sharief, Bannari Karthik and Ravichandran Tharani (2023). A Checklist of the Orchids of Nilgiri Biosphere Reserve, India. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 15(5): 1274-1292.'),(6887,'157','Cytotoxic effects of Cabbage (Brassica oleracea var. capitata) Leaves extract on the Root Meristematic Cells of Vicia faba L.','Amit Vaish','Cytotoxic-effects-of-Cabbage-(Brassica-oleracea-var.-capitata)-Leaves-extract-on-the-Root-Meristematic-Cells-of-Vicia-faba-L.-Amit-Vaish-191.pdf','',1,'Cabbage leaves are consumed as a vegetable all over the world. This member of family Brassicaceae is a popular ingredient of international salad. It is a rich source of vitamins and minerals but its over consumption may hamper human health also. In this study the investigator has tried to find out the possible cytotoxic effects of cabbage leaves aqueous extract on meristematic cells of Vicia faba L. Actively growing root tips of Vicia faba L. were treated with 100%, 75%, 50%, 25% and 10% concentrations of cabbage leaves extract for 2, 4 and 6 hours. The results obtained showed that the cabbage leaves extract is mitodepressive in nature and induces various types of chromosomal and nuclear aberrations such as multinucleate cells, stickiness at metaphase, disturbed metaphases, scattered metaphases, chromatid separation, polarity abolition, laggards and bridges at anaphases and telophases. It is concluded that cabbage leaves extract not only affect mitotic activity but also shows adverse impact on chromosomal behaviour of cells.','Cabbage, Chromosomal and nuclear aberrations, Cytotoxic','The investigator concluded that the cabbage (Brassica oleracea var. capitata) leaves extract not only inhibits mitotic activity but also induces various nuclear and chromosomal aberrations. From this investigation it can be concluded that the raw cabbage should not be consumed as it causes mitotic inhibition in Vicia faba root tip cells. Some researchers also indicated that Brassica vegetables contain DNA damaging compounds. The author is of opinion that cabbage leaves must be further investigated for their mitodepressive and mutagenic potential.','-','Amit Vaish (2023). Cytotoxic effects of Cabbage (Brassica oleracea var. capitata) Leaves extract on the Root Meristematic Cells of Vicia faba L. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 15(5): 1293-1298.'),(6888,'157','Nutrient content, Nutrient Uptake and Nutrient use efficiency of Double Zero Indian Mustard (PDZM-31) as effected by different Nutrient Management Practices','Gajjela Indira, R.B. Yadav, Archana Verma and Anjali ','Nutrient-content,-Nutrient-Uptake-and-Nutrient-use-efficiency-of-Double-Zero-Indian-Mustard-(PDZM-31)-as-effected-by-different-Nutrient-Management-Practices-Gajjela-Indira-192.pdf','',1,'A field experiment was conducted at Meerut, Uttar Pradesh, to assess the effect of different nutrient management practices on nutrient content, nutrient uptake and nutrient use efficiency of Indian mustard (Brassica juncea L.). Increment in use of inorganic fertilizers without inclusion of organic nutrient sources has intensified nutrient deficiencies of major and micro nutrients in plants. It also has degraded the soil health and pollution in environment. Integration of major and micronutrients with organic manures sustains the soil health and stabilizes the crop production by improving productivity. Standardization of Integrated Nutrient Management approach involving FYM, biofertilizers and inorganic fertilizers can maintain soil health and sustain crop productivity. Indian mustard cultivar Pusa Mustard 31(PDZM -31) was grown during winter (rabi) season of 2020-21. The treatments comprised of Control (T1), 100% N (T2), 100% NP (T3), 100% NPK (T4), 125%NPK (T5), 100% NPK+ S@40kg ha-1 (T6), 100%NPK+ Zn @5kg ha-1 (T7), 100%NPK + B @1kg ha-1 (T8), 75% NPK+ VC @ 2t ha-1 (T9), 75%NPK+FYM @ 6t ha-1 (T10), 75% NPK + VC @ 2t ha-1+ Azotobacter (T11) and 75% NPK + FYM @ 6t ha-1 + Azotobacter (T12) and analysed in RBD comprising of 3 replications. Results revealed that treatments T11 and T12 had significant influence on Nutrient content, Nutrient uptake by seed and stover and on Nutrient use efficiency of Indian mustard.','Nutrient management, Nutrient content, Nutrient uptake, Nutrient use efficiency, Double zero Indian mustard','It can be concluded that the integrated application of inorganic fertilizers, organic manures and biofertilizers gives better productivity in Indian mustard. Among the various nutrient management practices, treatment T11 (75% NPK + VC@ 2t ha-1 + Azotobacter) and T12 (75% NPK + FYM@ 6t ha-1 + Azotobacter) exhibited significant influence on nutrient content, nutrient uptake, nutrient use efficiency and productivity of Indian mustard.','-','Gajjela Indira, R.B. Yadav, Archana Verma and Anjali (2023). Nutrient content, Nutrient Uptake and Nutrient use efficiency of Double Zero Indian Mustard (PDZM-31) as effected by different Nutrient Management Practices. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 15(5): 1299-1304.'),(6889,'157','Biosynthesis and Characterization of Silver Nanoparticles using Simarouba glauca DC','Varsha S. Yadav and Manasi S. Patil','Biosynthesis-and-Characterization-of-Silver-Nanoparticles-using-Simarouba-glauca-DC-Manasi-S-Patil-193.pdf','',1,'Nanotechnology is a field of modern science which deals with the isolation characterization and its application in all aspects of life. An intriguing area of science is nanoparticle research, given how closely nanoparticle properties relate to size, there are many opportunities for unanticipated findings. The usually surprising and unusual behavior of nanoparticles holds great promise for cutting-edge technological application purposes, but also possesses considerable challenges to scientists. The fundamental disadvantage of the physical and chemical processes for producing silver nanoparticles is that they are very expensive, require dangerous, poisonous compounds, and may have adverse effects on the environment and human health. Because green synthesis is less expensive, produces less pollution, and enhances environmental and human health safety, it is more advantageous than standard chemical synthesis. The term \"green synthesis of nanomaterials\" refers to the synthesis of various metal nanoparticles employing bioactive agents such as plant materials, microbes, and bacteria. The creation of nanoparticles from bacteria and plants is now possible because of green synthesis technology, which is also economically feasible and biologically safe. Silver is one of the safe inorganics antibacterial, antifungal agents used for centuries and has been recognized as a nontoxic substance. Biomolecules present in plant play a role in reducing and capping the nanoparticles from metallic ions. Simarouba glauca is a readily set up of reducing and capping agent for the synthesis of nanoparticles. The demonstration carried out gave ideal results for biosynthesis of silver nanoparticle from simarouba glauca. Absorption spectra was observed at 430 nm resulting from the surface Plasmon resonance (SPR). Collectively, this study covers the isolation of green nanoparticles using fresh leaves of Simarouba glauca and its characterization with the help of UV-Vis Spectroscopy, EDX and SEM.','Nanotechnology, Silver nanoparticles, Simarouba glauca, UV- Vis Spectroscopy, SEM, EDX','Growing interest in green chemistry and nanotechnology over the past few decades has pushed for the use of green synthetic methods for the production of nanomaterials via plants, microbes, and other creatures. Researchers have been concentrating on green synthesis of nanoparticles in recent years by using an eco-friendly methodology. Due to its affordability, benign method, accessibility, and eco-friendliness, plant extract-mediated nanoparticles have garnered a lot of attention in research, as have their prospective uses in a variety of sectors. The quick biological synthesis of silver nanoparticles using S.glauca leaf extract offers an easy, effective, and environmentally friendly method for producing nanoparticles. It is clear that employing a green synthesis approach to create silver nanoparticles is a simpler and more efficient process. The synthetic nanoparticles were cubical shape with estimated diameters between 80 and 100 nm. The techniques used for characterization like UV-Vis spectroscopy, SEM and EDX all of these methods demonstrate the critical significance that plant extract content and metal ion ratio which play important role in determining the shape of nanoparticles. The obtained silver nanoparticles have potential technological uses in the agricultural sector and this straightforward process has several benefits like cost effectiveness, compatibility with nonfertilizer applications, and large-scale commercial production.','-','Varsha S. Yadav and Manasi S. Patil (2023). Biosynthesis and Characterization of Silver Nanoparticles using Simarouba glauca DC. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 15(5): 1305-1309.'),(6890,'157','Extension of Shelf Life and Enhancement of Antioxidant Activity in Paneer using a Casein based Coating with Clove Bud Essential Oil','Archana S., Divya K.B. and Anjali M.K., Aswin S. Warrier and Rajakumar S.N. ','Extension-of-Shelf-Life-and-Enhancement-of-Antioxidant-Activity-in-Paneer-using-a-Case-in-based-Coating-with-Clove-Bud-Essential-Oil-Archana-S-194.pdf','',1,'Although many studies have been conducted on the development of edible food packaging systems, there is limited research specifically focusing on coating paneer with a casein-based edible coating and its potential for extending the shelf life of the product. Casein-based edible coating incorporated with clove bud essential was applied to paneer in order to improve its limited shelf life. The coating solution was prepared by adding sodium caseinate, plasticizer (glycerol), pectin and clove bud essential oil at levels 13%, 3%, 1.25% and 0.3% respectively. The coated paneer along with control sample were tested for its sensory appeal, physico chemical qualities and microbial qualities during refrigerated storage which led to the conclusion that coated paneer showed longer shelf life (nine days) than the control sample (six days). Also, the coated paneer had good anti-oxidant property (IC 50- 5878 mg/Kg) initially when compared to the IC 50 value of control paneer (10340 mg/Kg) which kept decreasing on storage. Hence edible coating, apart from protecting the product from spoilage, has proven to be active agent of delivering anti-oxidants to the product, which is a relevant topic for further research. ','Sodium caseinate, Paneer, Clove bud essential oil, Shelf life, Anti-oxidant activity','The present study aimed to investigate the efficacy of a casein-based edible coating incorporated with clove bud essential oil in extending the shelf life of paneer, a traditional dairy product. The coated paneer samples were stored under refrigeration (7 ± 1°C), and an analysis of sensory evaluation, physicochemical characterization, antioxidant activity assessment, and microbiological evaluation was conducted at regular intervals throughout the storage period. The findings revealed that the paneer coated with the novel edible coating exhibited significantly slower sensory deterioration, including improved flavor, color, appearance, and texture attributes, compared to the uncoated control samples. Moreover, the coated paneer showed reduced moisture loss, decreased pH and acidity levels, and maintained lower water activity values during storage, thus effectively mitigating quality deterioration. Importantly, the incorporation of clove bud essential oil in the edible coating imparted remarkable antimicrobial properties, as indicated by the lower microbial counts in the coated samples. Consequently, the results highlight the potential of the casein-based edible coating with clove bud essential oil as an efficient approach for enhancing the shelf life of paneer while maintaining its sensory and nutritional attributes.','-','Archana S., Divya K.B. and Anjali M.K., Aswin S. Warrier and Rajakumar S.N. (2023). Extension of Shelf Life and Enhancement of Antioxidant Activity in Paneer using a Casein based Coating with Clove Bud Essential Oil. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 15(5): 1310-1317.'),(6891,'157','Valorisation of Paneer Whey in the Development of Drinking Yogurt','Mohammed Arshath, Alihath K.P. and Archana Chandran','Valorisation-of-Paneer-Whey-in-the-Development-of-Drinking-Yogurt-Mohammed-Arshath-195.pdf','',1,'The dairy industry generates a significant amount of waste, including paneer whey, which constitutes a substantial portion of liquid waste and byproduct. Paneer whey contains valuable nutrients and minerals but is often discarded, leading to environmental concerns. In this study, the feasibility and nutritional value of developing a yogurt drink enriched with fermented whey were assessed. The fermented whey was obtained as a byproduct of paneer production and incorporated into yogurt at different levels. Sensory evaluation, physicochemical analysis, microbial analysis, and shelf life study were conducted to evaluate the quality and acceptability of the yogurt drink. The results showed that the yogurt drink with 35% fermented whey had the highest sensory scores and was considered optimal. The inclusion of fermented whey increased titratable acidity, total solids, fat content, and protein content in the yogurt drink. Microbial analysis revealed higher counts of lactic acid bacteria in the yogurt drink with fermented whey. The absence of yeast, mold, and coliform bacteria indicated good product quality. However, the shelf life of all the samples were limited to 15 days. Overall, the findings suggest that paneer whey can be valorized by incorporating it into yogurt to develop a nutritious and flavorful drink. Additionally, this valorization approach has the potential to enhance the overall economic viability of the dairy industry by creating additional revenue streams from the byproduct. Further research is needed to enhance the shelf life of the product by novel packaging to address spoilage issues.','Whey, Yogurt drink, Optimisation, Sensory, Shelflife','In conclusion, this study explored the feasibility and nutritional value of utilizing paneer whey, a by product of paneer production, to develop a yogurt drink enriched with fermented whey. The results indicated that incorporating fermented whey into yogurt at a level of 35% yielded the highest sensory scores and was considered optimal. The inclusion of fermented whey positively influenced the physicochemical characteristics of the yogurt drink, increasing titratable acidity, total solids, fat content, and protein content. Microbial analysis revealed higher counts of beneficial lactic acid bacteria in the yogurt drink with fermented whey, while the absence of yeast, mold, and coliform bacteria indicated good product quality. However, all samples experienced spoilage within the 15-day shelf life study, most likely due to the growth of yeast and molds. These findings suggest that incorporating paneer whey into yogurt can be a viable approach to produce a nutritious and flavorful drink. Future research should focus on extending the shelf life and addressing spoilage issues to ensure the product\'s commercial viability.','-','Mohammed Arshath, Alihath K.P. and Archana Chandran (2023). Valorisation of Paneer Whey in the Development of Drinking Yogurt. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 15(5): 1318-1322.'),(6892,'157','A Review on Non-Invasive Quality Evaluation of Eggs using Sensor','Sharmeela R. and A. Lovelin Jerald','A-Review-on-Non-Invasive-Quality-Evaluation-of-Eggs-using-Sensor-Sharmeela-196.pdf','',1,'The concern for food quality and safety is shared by all sectors of the food industry, government regulatory agencies, and consumers. Eggs play an important part of our daily diet. New technologies and new methods of egg processing are followed in the egg industry to improve nutrition, safety, shelf life, and taste of egg products. One of the biggest challenges for the poultry industry is providing consistent-quality egg products to the consumer. The quality detection of eggs by using sensors helps to assure the safety and quality of the eggs. The paper discusses the factors influencing the quality of eggs. A relatively short period of time may pass before eggs become unusable if they are not handled and stored properly. One of the earliest signs of deterioration is the expansion of the air cell as a result of water evaporating from the white through the pores of the shell. The ageing impact of eggs can be measured using either destructive or non-destructive methods. The aim of this work is to develop a real-time model to check the quality of eggs by using the sensors. The quality of the egg can be sensed by using the Pressure sensor, a Pic Microcontroller embedded with an analog to digital converter that analyses the weight of the egg, and the result will be displayed on both LCD and LED.','Egg, Nutrition, Quality parameter, Non-invasive, Sensors, Shelf-life, Quality detection','The producer\'s or vendor\'s intention should mainly depend on the egg reaching the consumer with as much of its original quality as possible. The quality of the egg cannot be improved after it is laid. The quality will be lowered very quickly by many factors of management and by being exposed to high temperatures and low humidity. The quality detector for eggs will be compact in size and weight, so it can be carried anywhere and in any place. Pressure sensors, which help to analyse the weight of the eggs based on the weight of the eggs, the weight of the eggs will be sensed by the sensor. In the end, the system accurately and simply informs customers about the condition of the egg. Low-cost components can be effectively used to construct the design. The design of the kit is low-cost, feasible, compact, and cost-effective. The display system clearly shows the egg freshness level, giving customers a clear understanding of its construction, which makes it accessible to all socioeconomic groups. The design is simple, effective, compact, and cost-effective.','-','Sharmeela R. and A. Lovelin Jerald (2023). A Review on Non-Invasive Quality Evaluation of Eggs using Sensor. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 15(5): 1323-1326.'),(6893,'157','An Empirical Analysis of Organic Farming Models Practiced by \r\nFarmers in Tamil Nadu\r\n','R. Jansirani','An-Empirical-Analysis-of-Organic-Farming-Models-Practiced-by--R-Jansirani-197.pdf','',1,'Farmers in Tamil Nadu conducted a study on organic farming models to evaluate the cost and profitability associated with organic farming methods. For the study, three case studies were purposively selected from Coimbatore, Erode, and Nilgiris districts. Farmers in these districts employed various organic farming models. Specifically, three models were chosen: a turmeric-based cropping system in the Erode district, a coconut-based cropping system in the Coimbatore district, and a hill vegetable-based cropping system in the Nilgiris district. In the coconut-based cropping system, it was observed that the yield of coconuts was 6,724 nuts per acre. In comparison, the on-station experiment recorded a yield of 7,910 nuts per tree, resulting in a yield gap of 8%. Similarly, when comparing the yield of bananas, it was found to be 9,610 kg per acre in organic cultivation, whereas the on-station experiment yielded 12,000 kg per acre, indicating a yield gap of 9%. In the turmeric-based cropping system, the organic cultivation resulted in a yield of 11,190 kg per acre, which was lower than the on-station trial output of 13,000 kg per acre, resulting in a yield gap of 14%. However, despite the lower yields, organic farming exhibited a higher benefit-to-cost (B:C) ratio of 1:45 due to its lower cultivation costs compared to inorganic farming showed through case studies that the cost of cultivation is less in organic farming when compared to chemical farming. During the study, it was observed that several challenges arose, including the varying levels of farmer knowledge and experience with organic farming methods, as well as the limited availability and accessibility of organic inputs and resources in the selected districts.','Organic farming, cropping system, coconut farming, hill vegetable, cost returns, marketing B:C ratio','In conclusion, the success of organic farming practices is influenced by various factors including crop type, cultivation system, and environmental conditions. The performance of organic farming in coconut-based and vegetable-based cropping systems differed due to factors such as crop variety, duration, canopy, field topography, soil type, and quality. On the other hand, the turmeric-based cropping system demonstrated promising outcomes for organic cultivation under the specific system-based approach. Organic farming further. Additionally, organic farmers face difficulties in marketing their produce. Establishing effective marketing channels and creating awareness among consumers about the benefits of organic products can help increase the demand for organic produce. This, in turn, will provide organic farmers with better market opportunities and financial returns. By addressing these challenges and providing necessary support, more farmers can be encouraged to adopt organic farming practices. This shift towards organic agriculture will contribute to sustainable agricultural practices, promote soil health, conserve biodiversity, and provide consumers with higher-quality and healthier produce.','-','R. Jansirani (2023). An Empirical Analysis of Organic Farming Models Practiced by Farmers in Tamil Nadu. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 15(5): 1327-1330.'),(6894,'157','Enhancement of Red Pigment Production by Monascus purpureus MTCC 410 under submerged Fermentation by Regulating RSM coefficient through Plackett Burman Analysis','Anindita Sinha, Saikat Banerjee and Keka Sarkar','Enhancement-of-Red-Pigment-Production-by-Monascus-purpureus-MTCC-410-under-submerged-Fermentation-by-Regulating-RSM-coefficient-through-Plackett-Burman-Analysis-Keka-Sarkar-198.pdf','',1,'In an attempt was initiated to explore red pigment production of Monascus purpureus strain MTCC 410, employing potato powder as a carbon source with combinations of different nitrogen sources. The physical and nutritional parameters were optimized under submerged condition utilizing Plackett Burman analysis to determine the limiting parameters which affect mainly the formation of red pigment of Monascus purpureus. The present study illustrated that among all the parameters three most important parameters were selected temperature, potato powder and yeast extract. The optimum concentrations of nutritional parameters found to be potato powder (8.5 g %), yeast extract (2.75 g %) and the important physical parameter was selected at 30°C temperature using response surface central composite design. This computer assisted formulation of media optimization showing that Monascus pigments can be utilized as biocolorant in food and textile industry by submerged fermentation using potato powder-a low cost agro industrial material as carbon source. ','Monascus purpureus, submerged fermentation, polyketide, optimization, biocolorant','In comparison to other substrate previously utilised for the synthesis of pigment, potato powder is one of the cost-effective substrate in M. purpureus. Our study\'s goal was to create a fermentation method using submerged fermentation for the synthesis of M. purpureus red pigment. To maximise pigment production, we optimised important parameters. This study shows a steady way out of optimization of red pigment yield with Monascus purpureus. Nowadays, the tendency of the usage of natural substances in the food industry, gaining attention of the purchaser comparing to artificial man made products. Limited experimental reports were obtainable in the optimization process of red pigment formation by broth fermentation of Monascus purpureus. Current experimental investigation has showed that natural agro based substances along with different physical and nutritional parameters influencing red pigment production of a fungal organism. In future this experimental model can be used as a prospective great potential source of red pigment production in the food industry.','-','Anindita Sinha, Saikat Banerjee and Keka Sarkar (2023). Enhancement of Red Pigment Production by Monascus purpureus MTCC 410 under submerged Fermentation by Regulating RSM coefficient through Plackett Burman Analysis. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 15(5): 1331-1343.'),(6895,'157','HPTLC Method Development and Validation for Simultaneous Determination of Beta-Sitosterol and Oleanolic Acid in Eclipta alba','Arpan Chakraborty, Arka Bhattacharjee, Baishakhi Mondal, Manas Chakraborty,\r\n Goutam Mukhopadhyay and Alpana Majumder\r\n','HPTLC-Method-Development-and-Validation-for-Simultaneous-Determination-of-Beta-Sitosterol-and-Oleanolic-Acid-in-Eclipta-alba-Arpan-Chakraborty-199.pdf','',1,'Eclipta alba, a medicinal plant of the Asteraceae family, is widely recognized and extensively used in traditional medical systems such as Ayurveda, Siddha, Homeopathy, Unani, Chinese, and folk medicine. It contains significant phytochemical components like triterpenes, flavonoids, coumestans, steroids, saponins, and polypeptides. Eclipta alba is a key ingredient in various herbal and Ayurvedic formulations, including Indulekha Bringha oil and Liv.52 Gnx pill. The objective of this study was to develop a validated HPTLC method for the simultaneous quantification of beta-sitosterol and oleanolic acid in E. alba. Challenges may include optimizing separation and detection parameters. The method was validated following ICH guidelines. In the developed method, the stationary phase employed was silica gel 60 F254, while the mobile phase consisted of a mixture of ethyl acetate, toluene, and formic acid (6:5:0.1 v/v/v). Derivatization with anisaldehyde sulfuric acid resulted in the formation of compact bands. The calibration curves for beta-sitosterol and oleanolic acid exhibited high correlation coefficients (r2) of 0.9966 and 0.9945, respectively, indicating a good linear relationship within the concentration range of 450-1800 ng/spot and 400-1850 ng/spot based on the area. The method\'s precision, accuracy, robustness, and selectivity were evaluated. The LOD and LOQ for β-sitosterol were 107.94 ng/spot and 327.12 ng/spot, respectively. For oleanolic acid, the LOD was 128.81 ng/spot and the LOQ was 356.64 ng/spot. Overall, this HPTLC approach proved to be effective, straightforward, accurate, and reproducible. The study provides a reliable method for measuring the levels of oleanolic acid and beta-sitosterol in Eclipta alba. This method can be used to ensure the quality of Eclipta alba products and to guide their therapeutic use.','Eclipta alba, β-sitosterol, Oleanolic acid, HPTLC, Validation','The developed HPTLC technique enables the quantitative analysis of β-sitosterol and oleanolic acid in E. alba entire plant material. With RSD values of 2%, the method demonstrates satisfactory accuracy. The recovery percentages for β-sitosterol (100.28–100.36%) and oleanolic acid (99.87–100.19%) further confirm the efficiency and reliability of the method. In addition, the fingerprint profiling of chromatograms obtained from E. alba extracts can be used for comparing and evaluating commercial samples of the whole plant or specific portions. Compared to HPLC, HPTLC offers advantages such as shorter processing times, lower sample requirements, optimized extractions using cost-effective chemicals, and smaller mobile phase volumes. This quick, easy, and sensitive HPTLC procedure serves as a valuable quality control tool for assessing the aerial portion of E. alba.','-','Arpan Chakraborty, Arka Bhattacharjee, Baishakhi Mondal, Manas Chakraborty, Goutam Mukhopadhyay and Alpana Majumder (2023). HPTLC Method Development and Validation for Simultaneous Determination of Beta-Sitosterol and Oleanolic Acid in Eclipta alba. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 15(5): 1344-1351.'),(6896,'146','Evaluation of Husk properties of Hybrid Coconut (Cocos nucifera) cultivated in Littoral Sandy Soil of Odisha','Pradyot Kumar Nayak, S.C Sahoo, S.C. Swain, C.M. Panda and A.K. Karna','Evaluation-of-Husk-properties-of-Hybrid-Coconut-(Cocos-nucifera)-cultivated-in-Littoral-Sandy-Soil-of-Odisha-Pradyot-Kumar-Nayak-236.pdf','',1,'An experiment was conducted at Coconut Research Station, Konark, Odisha to evaluate the husk properties of hybrid coconut (Cocos nucifera) cultivated in littoral sandy soil of Odisha. The study was conducted during July 2020 to June 2022 following Randomized Block Design with 14 coconut germplasms including hybrids and tall high yielding varieties. The husk of the coconut is an important by product with numerous potential applications in various industries. This study involved a comprehensive analysis of the physical characteristics of the coconut husk to assess its potential for various industrial applications. The maximum average husk thickness was observed in MYD × ECT (2.99 cm) and the maximum husk weight was recorded in ECT (903.40 g per nut). The maximum husk thickness from proximal end was found in GBGD × ECT (7.09 cm). The maximum husk thickness from distal end was found in COD × WCT (4.31 cm). The maximum husk thickness from thick side was found in MYD × ECT (2.99 cm) and the maximum husk thickness from thin side was found in MYD × ECT (2.01 cm). It was also revealed from the experiment that at the pedicel-end and the apex-end coconuts were found to be thicker. But, at the centre, coconut husk was found to be thinner. This would help in deciding the minimum length of the piercing end of any coconut husking tool. The evaluation of husk properties of hybrid coconuts grown in littoral sandy soil of Odisha demonstrates their suitability for a range of industrial applications. ','Coconut husk, hybrid coconuts, littoral sandy soil, Odisha, physical properties, industrial applications','For designing new innovative husking mechanisms, it is important to know the physical and mechanical properties of coconut. The study revealed that there was a significant difference in husk thickness at different positions of the coconut. This difference was found to be present at the pedicel-end, center and the apex-end. At the pedicel-end and the apex-end coconuts were found to be thicker. But, at the centre, coconut husk was found to be thinner. This would help in deciding the minimum length of the piercing end of any coconut husking tool. The evaluation of husk properties of hybrid coconuts grown in littoral sandy soil of Odisha demonstrates their suitability for a range of industrial applications. The physical characteristics indicate potential uses in composite materials, paper and pulp industries, biofuel production, and soil amendment. These findings contribute to sustainable utilization of coconut byproducts, thereby enhancing the economic value of coconut cultivation in Odisha and promoting a circular economy. Further research is recommended to explore processing techniques, optimization of husk properties, and pilot-scale trials for specific industrial applications, thereby enhancing the economic and environmental sustainability of the coconut industry in Odisha.','-','Pradyot Kumar Nayak, S.C Sahoo, S.C. Swain, C.M. Panda and A.K. Karna (2022). Evaluation of Husk properties of Hybrid Coconut (Cocos nucifera) cultivated in Littoral Sandy Soil of Odisha. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 14(4): 1325-1328.'),(6897,'157','Effect of Hybrid Coconut Cultivation on properties of Littoral Sandy Soil of Odisha','Pradyot Kumar Nayak, S.C Sahoo, S.C. Swain, R.K. Nayak and M.K. Patel','Effect-of-Hybrid-Coconut-Cultivation-on-properties-of-Littoral-Sandy-Soil-of-Odisha-Pradyot-Kumar-Nayak-127.pdf','',4,'An experiment was conducted at Coconut Research Station in Konark, Odisha to assess the impact of hybrid coconut cultivation on the properties of littoral sandy soil of Odisha. The study was conducted during July 2020 to June 2022, following Randomized Block Design with 14 coconut germplasms including hybrids and tall high yielding varieties. Each treatment represents one sample and for each treatment soil samples were collected from two random palms from different depths in each replication. Results showed that pH of soil at 0-50cm ranged from 5.69-5.9 and 5.64-5.93 and from 5.61-5.84 and 5.72-6.06 at 50-100cm soil depth in the beginning and end of the study, respectively. The initial EC values at the 0-50cm depth were highest in soil collected from LCOT × COD, COD × WCT, LCOT, LCOT × GBGD and WCT × GBGD, while at the end of the experiment, the maximum EC was observed in soil collected from GBGD × ECT, LCOT and LCOT × GBGD i.e., 0.007 ds/m. At 50-100cm zone of soil the maximum EC in the beginning was observed in the soil collected from LCOT × COD, COD × WCT, LCOT × GBGD & WCT × GBGD, while the maximum EC at the end of experiment was observed in the soil collected from GBGD × PHOT, COD × WCT, MYD × ECT and WCT × GBGD i.e., 0.008 dS/m. Initial OC at 0-50cm depth ranged from 2.42 to 2.81 g/Kg and from 2.45 to 2.92 g/Kg at the end, while at the 50-100cm depth, soil collected from ECT × GBGD (1.93 g/Kg and 1.96 g/Kg) had the highest OC initially and also at the end. Available nitrogen, phosphorus, and potassium showed no significant differences in the 0-50cm and 50-100cm depth. Overall, hybrid coconut cultivation had minimal effects on soil properties, except for electrical conductivity, which varied significantly due to salt accumulation and poor water retention capacity of the littoral sandy soil. ','Littoral sandy soil, hybrid coconuts, nutrient availability, electrical conductivity','The study demonstrates that hybrid coconut cultivation does not significantly influence soil properties in littoral sand environments. The cultivation of hybrid coconut palms resulted in significant variation in electrical conductivity and organic matter accumulation at 50-100cm depth. These findings have important implications for sustainable coconut cultivation and soil management practices. Proper utilization of these results can lead to improved productivity, enhanced soil fertility, and the long-term sustainability of coconut farming in coastal regions emphasizing the need for soil salinity management and adoption of appropriate farming practices to ensure long-term productivity and environmental sustainability. ','-','Pradyot Kumar Nayak, S.C Sahoo, S.C. Swain, R.K. Nayak and M.K. Patel (2022). Effect of Hybrid Coconut Cultivation on properties of Littoral Sandy Soil of Odisha. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 14(4a): 745-750.'),(6898,'147','Effect of Hybrid Coconut Cultivation on properties of Littoral Sandy Soil of Odisha','Pradyot Kumar Nayak, S.C Sahoo, S.C. Swain, R.K. Nayak and M.K. Patel','Effect-of-Hybrid-Coconut-Cultivation-on-properties-of-Littoral-Sandy-Soil-of-Odisha-Pradyot-Kumar-Nayak-127.pdf','',1,'An experiment was conducted at Coconut Research Station in Konark, Odisha to assess the impact of hybrid coconut cultivation on the properties of littoral sandy soil of Odisha. The study was conducted during July 2020 to June 2022, following Randomized Block Design with 14 coconut germplasms including hybrids and tall high yielding varieties. Each treatment represents one sample and for each treatment soil samples were collected from two random palms from different depths in each replication. Results showed that pH of soil at 0-50cm ranged from 5.69-5.9 and 5.64-5.93 and from 5.61-5.84 and 5.72-6.06 at 50-100cm soil depth in the beginning and end of the study, respectively. The initial EC values at the 0-50cm depth were highest in soil collected from LCOT × COD, COD × WCT, LCOT, LCOT × GBGD and WCT × GBGD, while at the end of the experiment, the maximum EC was observed in soil collected from GBGD × ECT, LCOT and LCOT × GBGD i.e., 0.007 ds/m. At 50-100cm zone of soil the maximum EC in the beginning was observed in the soil collected from LCOT × COD, COD × WCT, LCOT × GBGD & WCT × GBGD, while the maximum EC at the end of experiment was observed in the soil collected from GBGD × PHOT, COD × WCT, MYD × ECT and WCT × GBGD i.e., 0.008 dS/m. Initial OC at 0-50cm depth ranged from 2.42 to 2.81 g/Kg and from 2.45 to 2.92 g/Kg at the end, while at the 50-100cm depth, soil collected from ECT × GBGD (1.93 g/Kg and 1.96 g/Kg) had the highest OC initially and also at the end. Available nitrogen, phosphorus, and potassium showed no significant differences in the 0-50cm and 50-100cm depth. Overall, hybrid coconut cultivation had minimal effects on soil properties, except for electrical conductivity, which varied significantly due to salt accumulation and poor water retention capacity of the littoral sandy soil. ','Littoral sandy soil, hybrid coconuts, nutrient availability, electrical conductivity','The study demonstrates that hybrid coconut cultivation does not significantly influence soil properties in littoral sand environments. The cultivation of hybrid coconut palms resulted in significant variation in electrical conductivity and organic matter accumulation at 50-100cm depth. These findings have important implications for sustainable coconut cultivation and soil management practices. Proper utilization of these results can lead to improved productivity, enhanced soil fertility, and the long-term sustainability of coconut farming in coastal regions emphasizing the need for soil salinity management and adoption of appropriate farming practices to ensure long-term productivity and environmental sustainability. ','-','Pradyot Kumar Nayak, S.C Sahoo, S.C. Swain, R.K. Nayak and M.K. Patel (2022). Effect of Hybrid Coconut Cultivation on properties of Littoral Sandy Soil of Odisha. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 14(4a): 745-750.'),(6899,'159','Feeding efficiency and behaviour of different age Groups of Zygogramma bicolorata P Mexican Beetle, on Parthenium hysterophorus L. in Raipur, Chhattisgarh','Sachin Kumar Jaiswal, Jayalaxmi Ganguli and Ankita Singh','Feeding-efficiency-and-behaviour-of-different-age-Groups-of-Zygogramma-bicolorata-P-Mexican-Beetle,-on-Parthenium-hysterophorus-L.-in-Raipur,-Chhattisgarh-Sachin-Kumar-Jaiswal-95.pdf','',1,'The noxious and problematic weed, Parthenium hysterophorus belongs to family Asteraceae (Linnaeus), well known worldwide as ‘carrot grass’ or ‘white top’ or ‘congress grass’ and ‘gajar ghans’ or ‘chatak chandni’ in hindi. A different combination of integrated approach can be used to manage Parthenium hysterophorus effectively. The biological control of Parthenium was inspect through a leaf beetle, at laboratory of Biocontrol, Department of Entomology, IGKV, Raipur, Chhattisgarh. Z. bicolorata is not yet well established and spread in Chhattisgarh though it is considered as a safe biocontrol agent. Therefore, to investigate the feeding behaviour and feeding efficiency of the Mexican beetle, Z. bicolorata, on three different age group of host plant i.e. early stage, pre-reproductive and reproductive stage of Parthenium present study was carried out by releasing various numbers of beetles i.e. 2, 3, 4 and 5 pairs. In the feeding behaviour of Mexican beetle, Z. bicolorata, it was observed that the newly hatched grubs initially fed on the leaf area adjoining to the oviposition site and then migrated to the terminal and axillary buds. Later on, the grubs moved onto the leaf blades as they grew. Younger grubs preferred to feed on tender leaves, whereas older grubs fed on matured leaves. The younger grubs started feeding from the leaf margin and moved inwards, while adult beetles started feeding from the leaf margin and moved all over the plants parts. As far as feeding efficiency was concerned, on the basis of overall mean of two years data, minimum time taken was (3.50days) for complete defoliation by 5 pairs of beetles followed by (4.50 days) by three pairs whereas, maximum time was taken by 2 pairs of Z. bicolorata (17.00 days) for complete defoliation of a single plant. ','Parthenium hysterophorus, Mexican beetle, Zygogramma bicolorata, feeding behaviour, defoliation','Thus, on testing the feeding of Mexican beetle, Z. bicolorata, by releasing various numbers of beetles viz., 2, 3, 4 and 5 pairs on three different age groups of host plant i.e. early stage, pre-reproductive and reproductive stage of the noxious and problematic weed P. hysterphorus for two years, results revealed that, minimum time taken was (3.50 days) for complete defoliation by 5 pairs of beetles followed by (4.50 days) by three pairs whereas, maximum time was taken by 2 pairs of Z. bicolorata (17.00 days) for complete defoliation. Hence, for the biological control of Parthenium weed, 3 to 5 pairs of beetles/plant can be recommended.','-','Sachin Kumar Jaiswal, Jayalaxmi Ganguli and Ankita Singh (2023). Feeding efficiency and behaviour of different age Groups of Zygogramma bicolorata P Mexican Beetle, on Parthenium hysterophorus L. in Raipur, Chhattisgarh. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 15(6): 628-635.'),(6900,'157','Optimization, Chromatography-based Purification and characterization of novel Antibacterial compound 4-formyl-2-hydroxy bicyclo [4.1.0] heptane-7-carboxylic acid produced by Streptomyces rochei (OM746935)','Dhanasekaran Kokila, Venkatapathi Bhuvaneswari, Manickam Ramesh,\r\n Natarajan Ranjani and Ranganathan Kannan','Optimization, Chromatography-based Purification and characterization of novel Antibacterial compound 4-formyl-2-hydroxy bicyclo [4.1.0] heptane-7-carboxylic acid produced by Strep-Dhanasekaran Kokila-200.pdf','',1,'Actinobacteria are the most affordable source of novel antibiotic production for the biotechnological and pharmaceutical industries. In the present work, Streptomyces rochei was isolated from Bargur hills and was investigated for their antimicrobial activity by agar well diffusion method, Streptomyces rochei was active against all the test organisms, and the maximum zone of inhibition was observed in Staphylococcus aureus lowest concentration of MIC 1.25 mg/ml. Ethyl acetate extract showed four fractions in TLC and the active fraction was identified by bioautography. This study investigates the optimization of the nutrient content of the fermentation medium by alteration in carbon and nitrogen source, medium PH, and incubation days are monitored. Then purification of bioactive compounds by column chromatography, 30 fractions were obtained 21, 23, and 24th fractions active against all the tested organisms. All these active fractions are again purified by preparative HPLC which contains C-18 column. Sixteen fractions were again investigated for antibacterial activity, the best activity was obtained in the 7th fraction. Significant peaks were visible in the HPLC chromatogram at the 11th and 16th minutes. Using a UV detector, the maximum absorbance was recorded in the UV range of 220 nm. The active fraction was further characterized by FTIR, GCMS, and NMR. Based on the NMR shift values structure and name of the compound are predicted as 4-formyl-2-hydroxy bicyclo [4.1.0] heptane-7-carboxylic acid. This compound is responsible for the action of antibacterial activity. Actinomycetes isolated from terrestrial sources can each produce a variety of secondary metabolites; in fact, the vast majority of antibiotics originate from these sources. However, a number of diseases are developing resistance to the widely prescribed antibiotics. The development of drugs to stop the spread of these infections is therefore urgently needed.','Optimization, column chromatography, preparative HPLC, FTIR, GC-MS','Strain Streptomyces rochei BF3A has the ability to produce antibacterial compounds. Purified antibacterial compound structurally identified as 4-formyl-2-hydroxy bicyclo [4.1.0] heptane-7-carboxylic acid. This compound is active against all the test organisms particularly the maximum zone of inhibition in Staphylococcus aureus. The Insilco docking approaches of a compound with the target sites of Staphylococcus aureus will be studied in the future. ','-','Dhanasekaran Kokila, Venkatapathi Bhuvaneswari, Manickam Ramesh, Natarajan Ranjani and Ranganathan Kannan (2023). Optimization, Chromatography-based Purification and characterization of novel Antibacterial compound 4-formyl-2-hydroxy bicyclo [4.1.0] heptane-7-carboxylic acid produced by Streptomyces rochei(OM746935). Biological Forum – An International Journal, 15(5): 1352-1361.'),(6901,'159','Composition characteristics of the Mitochondrial encoded COX1 gene of Triatominae (Heteroptera: Reduviidae)','J. Sherlin John and P. Selvaraj','Composition-characteristics-of-the-Mitochondrial-encoded-COX1-gene-of-Triatominae-(Heteroptera-Reduviidae)-5534-P-Selvaraj-96.pdf','',1,'Triatominae is the only hematophagous subfamily of Reduviidae. They are vectors of Trypanosoma cruzi which causes Chagas’ disease. Complete mitochondrial genomes provide reliable phylogenetic information from its highly conserved protein-coding genes including MT-COX1, which is widely used in molecular phylogenetics. This study investigated the compositional characteristics of the MT-COX1 gene of 11 Triatominae species to detect the variations/patterns which support phylogenetic systematics. Curated mitogenomes of various species in Triatoma are more in Refseq than other genus in Reduviidae. The AT biased nucleotide composition showed negative AT and GC skewness. Leucine and isoleucine dominate the amino acid composition. When comparing the MT-COX1 coding gene among the 11 species, 83.45 ± 2.90% genetic identity with heat map analysis showing the divergence among the tribes. Amino acids with hydrophobic side-chains (especially Leu and Ile) are subjected to conservative substitutions. Non-conservative substitutions are more favored than semi-conserved mutations. An 86.49% threshold of identical amino acids in the MT-COX1 is prominent within the subfamily. This study encountered challenges in delineating validated nucleotide sequences, analyzing them within the framework of established morphological systematics and elucidating the mechanisms underlying molecular evolution within the gene. Thus, studying the basic compositional variations in the protein-coding genes like MT-COX1 substantiate mechanisms of evolution in Triatominae. The highly variable amino acid sequence from 472 to 492 of MT-COX1 and corresponding coding region in the gene can delimit species in Triatominae. Gaining insight into the fundamental compositional variations within dependable protein-coding genes, such as MT-COX1, not only enhances the validation of classical taxonomy through molecular systematics but also reveals contrariety in the phylogenetic relationship of Triatominae, extending up to the level of Tribes.','Insect vectors, Hematophagy, Mitochondria, Amino acid, Systematics, Phylogeny','The amino acid sequence from 472 to 492 identified variation among the species in Triatoma. Hence, the corresponding coding region of 472 to 492 amino acids in the gene can delimit species in Triatominae (Fig. 5). Future studies are needed to compare this region with other species in Triatominae. When comparing all the results of this study, leucine and isoleucine, being the most abundant amino acids, are subjected to conservative mutations. A threshold of 86.49% identical amino acids and a very close 83.45 ± 2.90 (Mean ± S.D.) genetic identity (%) is prominent within the subfamily. ','-','J. Sherlin John and P. Selvaraj (2023). Composition characteristics of the Mitochondrial encoded COX1 gene of Triatominae (Heteroptera: Reduviidae). Biological Forum – An International Journal, 15(6): 636-642.'),(6902,'157','Assessment of Water Quality in certain Lakes of Hyderabad, Telangana','A. Rajani, A. Kavitha and P. Manjula','Assessment-of-Water-Quality-in-certain-Lakes-of-Hyderabad,-Telangana-A-Rajani-201.pdf','',1,'Water bodies are essential components in our ecosystem for all living organisms and compose 50-97% of plant and animal weight and about 70% of the human body. All the people depend on water bodies for their day to day activities and the water quality analysis thus becomes a basic requirement for safety purposes and determines the health of our environment. Therefore, the challenge here is periodically monitoring and assessment of water quality for maintenance of quality of water in rivers, lakes and ponds. The main objective of physico-chemical analysis of water was to determine the nutrient status of the medium. Since water contains dissolved and suspended constituents in varying proportions it has different physical and chemical properties along with biological variation. The quality of water may be affected in various ways by pollution. The main objective was to assess the quality of water and degree of pollution. The water was alkaline in the lakes. Carbonates and dissolved oxygen were recorded in low concentration. Organic matter, COD, phosphates and nitrates were recorded in high concentration. Four groups of algae were recorded in the lake i.e., Cyanophyceae, Chlorophyceae, Euglenophyceae and Bacillariophyceae. Among the four groups of algae Cyanophyceae constituted the dominant group. Bacillariophyceae recorded in very low numbers. Microcystis, Arthrospira, Oscillatoria, Chlorella, Scenedesmus, Cyclotella, Gomphonema, Nitzschia, Euglena, Phacus were dominant in the lake they can use as good indicators of pollution. On the basis of both physico-chemical and biological characteristics the lake was polluted and eutrophic.','Pollution, Lakes, Physico-chemical parameters, Phytoplankton and Cyanophyceae','The physic-chemical characteristics exhibited certain interrelationships. The pH and carbonates are directly correlated. The pH and carbonates are inversely proportional to bicarbonates. Chlorides showed an inverse correlation with carbonates. Dissolved oxygen shows an inverse correlation with organic matter and biological oxygen demand. The total hardness negatively correlated with carbonates. Sulphates and phosphates showed positive correlation with chlorides. Nitrates showed positive correlation with carbonates, bicarbonates, calcium and negatively correlated with total dissolved solids. The biological parameters include the estimation of phytoplankton community structure and their distribution in various seasons. The taxa recorded in the lakes have been classified under four classes Cyanophyceae, Chlorophyceae, Bacillariophyceae and Euglenophyceae. Temperature, organic matter, phosphates and nitrates are influenced the growth of Cyanophyceae. Whereas, the Chlorophyceae was influenced by temperature and oxygen. Silicates and oxygen are responsible for the growth of diatoms. The euglenophyceae influenced by temperature, organic matter and nitrates. All the physic-chemical parameters are well above the permissible limits. Hence on the basis of both physico-chemical and biological parameters the lake was polluted. From the foregoing account it can be concluded that the lakes are highly polluted and eutrophic in nature.','-','A. Rajani, A. Kavitha and P. Manjula (2023). Assessment of Water Quality in certain Lakes of Hyderabad, Telangana. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 15(5): 1362-1368.'),(6903,'159','Evaluation of Different Fodder Napier Hybrids and their Suitability for Coastal Region of Andhra Pradesh','Bukke Triveni, Kancharana Anand Rao, Allu Teja, Mula Ravi Kumar and Thejavath Varun Singh ','Evaluation-of-Different-Fodder-Napier-Hybrids-and-their-Suitability-for-Coastal-Region-of-Andhra-Pradesh-Bukke-Triveni-97.pdf','',1,'A field experiment was carried out during kharif 2021-22, at Buffalo Research Station, Venkataramannagudem, West Godavari, Andhra Pradesh to study the impact of hybrid Napier cultivars on the performance and productivity of the Coastal region of Andhra Pradesh. Among the nine different cultivars, Super Napier resulted in Significantly higher in plant height, number of leaves plants-1, number of tillers plant-1, leaf to stem ratio and green fodder yield which was followed by the red Napier cultivar in the above parameters.','Hybrid Napier, Green fodder yield and Fodder cultivars','The above investigation clearly inferred that Super Napier (T3) was found to be superior with respect to growth attributes and registered significantly higher green fodder yield compared to other varieties tried on sandy loam soils of the Coastal region of Andhra Pradesh at Buffalo Research Station, Venkatramannagudem.','-','Bukke Triveni, Kancharana Anand Rao, Allu Teja, Mula Ravi Kumar and Thejavath Varun Singh (2023). Evaluation of Different Fodder Napier Hybrids and their Suitability for Coastal Region of Andhra Pradesh. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 15(6): 643-645.'),(6904,'156','Assessment of Fungal Population in Rhizospheric Soil of Triticum aestivum (wheat) under the Influence of on-field Crop residue Management Practice of ‘stubble Burning’','Khare J. and Bharti D.','Assessment-of-Fungal-Population-in-Rhizospheric-Soil-of-Triticum-aestivum-(wheat)-under-the-Influence-of-on-field-Crop-residue-Management-Practice-of-stubble-Burning-Khare-J-139.pdf','',1,'Soil ecology is an extensive area of research. The soil microbiome is a collective terminology used for all the microbial communities residing in the extended rhizospheric area. This includes bacteria, fungi, protozoa, archae and virus. Fungi is an important inhabitant of wheat rhizosphere and is directly involved in sustainability, enzymatic breakdown of organic matter and improvising plant health in a variety of ways. Stubble burning always remains a topic concern for soil ecology. In order to understand the fungal component of soil ecosystem and the impact of alternative human practices on rhizospheric fungi colony forming units (cfu) count remains a good choice. Assessing the number of viable fungal cells in wheat rhizosphere by plate count method helps in interpreting the harmful effects of stubble burning on live cells and their ability to grow. Soil collected from wheat fields at two different intervals from different regions of Madhya Pradesh was subjected to viable plate count method to assess the number of microorganisms present in the soil. The results obtained showed a visible disparity among the samples of before burning and after burning soil. The cfu count was calculated as total fungal count, including the yeast and mold count. The total cfu count was reduced from 5.61 × 104cfu/gram of soil to 2.65 × 104cfu/gram of soil in the wheat fields of Madhya Pradesh. All the 50 samples collected from the rhizospheric region had different fraction of fungal population depending on soil nutrient characteristics. Cultivating fungus in vitro, is a difficult task to perform as fungal mycelia may damage while sample collection. To minimize this damage, stubble was collected along with roots adhering with rhizospheric soil. The article\'s goal is to provide a succinct overview of the current situation with stubble burning, loss of fungal biodiversity, and available solutions to improve the sustainability of the agriculture industry. ','Rhizosphere, Triticum aestivum, plate count, cfu count, stubble, soil ecology','To check and stop a practice like burning crop residue that is environmentally unacceptable, conservation agriculture (CA) must grow and accelerate, and this movement should be led by farmers. The Indian government supports the management of crop residues for environmental and agricultural sustainability. A successful management plan was proposed in accordance with the updated Crop Residue Management Scheme-2020 guidelines. This plan enables appropriate strategies to be used to take advantage of the limited window of time between rice and wheat cultivation in order to minimize burning incidents to zero. The goal should be, to safeguard the environment from the effects of stubble burning, including air, soil, water, and microbes.','-','Khare J. and Bharti D. (2023). Assessment of Fungal Population in Rhizospheric Soil of Triticum aestivum (wheat) under the Influence of on-field Crop residue Management Practice of ‘stubble Burning’. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 15(4): 834-839.'),(6905,'159','Assessment of Physico-Chemical Properties of Soil in Pomegranate orchards from Sangamner and Rahata, Ahmednagar District (Maharashtra) India','K.D. Thete, S.S. Chine, S.B. Bhadange and R.S. Khemnar','Assessment-of-Physico-Chemical-Properties-of-Soil-in-Pomegranate-orchards-from-Sangamner-and-Rahata,-Ahmednagar-District-(Maharashtra)-India-KD-Thete-98.pdf','',1,'Soil is an essential natural source. In the present study, an analysis of the Physico-chemical parameters of soil in ten different villages of pomegranate orchards from the Sangamner and Rahata taluka was done. The soil samples were collected and analyzed to measure various physical and chemical parameters like pH, temperature, E.C, N, P, K, Carbon, Boron, and Sulfur. This research provides information regarding the soil\'s nature and the nutrients found in the soil of pomegranate orchards from study area. Sangamner and Rahata are geographically different so the selection of sampling sites for the analysis of soil parameters is difficult to compare the results. To overcome this problem found out the sampling sites of soil based on colour and texture. All soil parameters, including pH, temperature, E.C, N, P, K, Carbon, Boron and Sulfur are within normal limits.','Physicochemical, properties, soil, pomegranate orchards, Sangamner, Rahata','In this analysis, we examine the physicochemical properties of soil samples collected from pomegranate orchards in Sangamner and Rahata taluka. Sangamner and Rahata are geographically different but observed that both shown the similarity in soil colour and texture. All soil parameters, including pH, temperature, E.C, N, P, K, Carbon, and Sulfur are found within normal limits. This research provides information regarding the nature of soil and the nutrients that are found in soil of pomegranate orchads. According to the current study, the offered soil is more suited for the growth of pomegranate.','-','K.D. Thete, S.S. Chine, S.B. Bhadange and R.S. Khemnar (2023). Assessment of Physico-Chemical Properties of Soil in Pomegranate orchards from Sangamner and Rahata, Ahmednagar District (Maharashtra) India. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 15(6): 646-650.'),(6906,'157','Environmental Factors affecting Indoor Air quality (Educational institution) in Urban Settings','Tasneem Amina, Venkataraman and Rajesh Kumar T.','Environmental-Factors-affecting-Indoor-Air-quality-(Educational-institution)-in-Urban-Settings-Tasneem-Amina-202.pdf','',1,'Educational Institute indoor environment, where students spend a lot of time, is a major problem because of how vulnerable and sensitive they are to exposure to air pollution. The rising prevalence of asthma & respiratory disease among students, who spend a substantial portion of their lives on educational institutes’ grounds, has contributed to the growing interest in indoor air quality (IAQ) of educational buildings. Students of the afflicted educational facilities frequently mention a wide variety of vague and frequently subjective health issues. These are frequently ascribed to the poor air quality. However, several instances of indoor air pollution offer a useful perspective on the challenges faced by researchers attempting to demonstrate causality. The designated institutions are located in metropolitan settings. As a result of high occupancy inadequate ventilation, building structure, seasonal variations as well as elevated levels of particulate matter (PM) & total volatile organic compounds (TVOC), educational Institutes in Delhi had generally poor indoor air quality, as measured by air quality measurements. Educational Institutes near urban areas are substantially more affected by the dispersion of pollutants than educational Institutes in rural areas & other adjacent environments. Therefore, management suited to the characteristics of educational Institute buildings is required. In conclusion, the review suggests that qualitative data could supplement the traditionally quantitative field of indoor air quality. It is likely that multidisciplinary research will comprehensively explain environmental health trends noticed in student by quantitative research. This study intends to contribute for the understanding of the role of environmental factors affecting indoor air quality of educational institutes, namely indoor air pollution, on considering a risk group of different ages of students, and for the development of preventive measures, which are considered priority issues by WHO. Provided explanations are essential for managing environmental health of students, seasonal variations, building structures & devising effective strategies for prevention, mitigation, & communication.','IAQ, Educational Institutes, Factors, Urban settings, Mitigation','The susceptibility of student to respiratory disease is due to the factors affecting the educational Institute’s air environment. A multidisciplinary study utilising mixed methods can more comprehensively explain health-related environmental trends seen in both quantitative & qualitative studies. While health effects of educational Institute exposure were identified at concentrations below current standards, the study has emphasised the impaired IAQ in particular educational institutions in urban settings which often surpass WHO guidelines.','-','Tasneem Amina, Venkataraman and Rajesh Kumar T. (2023). Environmental Factors affecting Indoor Air quality (Educational institution) in Urban Settings. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 15(5): 1369-1374.'),(6907,'157','Brain-Computer Interface (BCI) for Enhancement of Attention in Post Stroke Patients – A Pilot Study','Anita Prem, Mohan Raj K., Rajan Samuel A., Sam Thamburaj A., Prabhakaradoss D., Veronika Godwin Ajoo, Mallika S. and Chinnadurai R.','Brain-Computer-Interface-(BCI)-for-Enhancement-of-Attention-in-Post-Stroke-Patients-–-A-Pilot-Study-Anitha-203.pdf','',1,'Attention problems after stroke are common. Attention is associated with cognitive productivity, post stroke balance, functional impairment and daily living. Improving attention is the key for learning motor skills. Previous studies have made use of methods like APT (Attention Process Training) for enhancement of attention in post stroke subjects. But these approaches have failed to provide real-time feedbacks. This study explores the possibility of BCI-based attention training in improving attention levels and thereby improving the quality of life among post stroke patients. This is a pilot study with an experimental group and a control group with 10 subjects in each group. Participants were 20 survivors of anterior and middle cerebral artery ischemic stroke in the late subacute stage, both right and left hemiplegics, diagnosed for stroke by WHO criteria. The baseline values -- the e sense attention meter score, Bells Test score, and Trail Making Test (TMT) Parts A & B score along with the Stroke Specific Quality of Life scale (SS-QOL) -- were taken before intervention. The intervention involved 3 sessions per week of BCI based attention training for 8 weeks, followed by a maintenance training of 3 sessions per month for the next 12 weeks for the experimental group. Both groups were given standardized physical therapy care for 3 sessions per week through all the 20 weeks. The post intervention assessment values were taken with the same tools used for baseline values at the end of 20 weeks of intervention and at one month follow up. The results of this pilot study confirm that BCI based attention training along with standardized physical therapy care for stroke enhances attention levels in post-stroke subjects. BCI-based attention training for post-stroke patients faces challenges like small sample size, blinding, ethical considerations, and safety.','Brain Computer Interface, Stroke, Attention, Bells Test, Trail Making Test, Stroke Specific quality of Life','The results of this pilot study confirm that BCI based attention training along with standardized physical therapy care for stroke enhances attention levels in post-stroke subjects compared to those post-stroke subjects given only standardized physical therapy care. The readings after following up show that the benefits of the intervention in attention in the experimental group were sustained even after a gap of one month. As several factors are involved in improving quality of life in stroke patients, the standardized physical therapy protocol given to both groups has enhanced their quality of life, and increased attention adds to it. However, a valid conclusion cannot be arrived at, since the sample size is too small. A larger trial is needed to better evaluate the efficacy of the BCI-based attention training programme.','-','Anita Prem, Mohan Raj K., Rajan Samuel A., Sam Thamburaj A., Prabhakaradoss D., Veronika Godwin Ajoo, Mallika S. and Chinnadurai R. (2023). Brain-Computer Interface (BCI) for Enhancement of Attention in Post Stroke Patients – A Pilot Study. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 15(5): 1375-1381.'),(6908,'157','Improving Asthma Patients\' Peak Expiratory Flow Rate and Reducing Dyspnoea through Inspiratory Muscle Training','Baskaran A., Sam Thamburaj. A., Prabhakaradoss D., Mallika. S., Muralisankar. K.S.I. and Mathan Kumar S. ','Improving-Asthma-Patients-Peak-Expiratory-Flow-Rate-and-Reducing-Dyspnoea-through-Inspiratory-Muscle-Training-Baskaran-204.pdf','',1,'The purpose of this research is to investigate whether or not training for the muscles that control breathing during inspiration may lessen symptoms of dyspnea and increase the peak expiratory flow rate in asthma patients. Using a straightforward random sample strategy, twenty individuals with acute asthma ranging in age from 35 to 55 were chosen for the study. The 20 individuals who went to the physiotherapy department at Vinayaka Missions Kirupananda Variyar Medical College and Hospital in Salem had their pre-test measurements of dyspnoea and peak expiratory flow rate taken using a modified borg scale and a peak flow metre. These measurements were taken before the patients were given the test. Following the pre-test evaluation, the subjects underwent inspiratory muscle training for a period of eight weeks. At the conclusion of the eighth week, a post-test measurement of dyspnoea and peak expiratory flow rate was performed on the group utilising a modified borg scale and a peak flow metre in a manner that was analogous to the manner in which the pre-test measurement was carried out. According to the findings of the research, individuals with asthma had less dyspnea and an increase in their peak expiratory flow rate after engaging in inspiratory muscle exercise. This study faces challenges in participant selection, recruitment, sample size, and adherence to inspiratory muscle training protocol, requiring larger sample size, long follow-up periods, and control group intervention.','Asthma, Inspiratory muscle training, Dyspnoea, Peak expiratory flow rate','The integration of inspiratory muscle training as a supplemental strategy for the therapy of asthma is supported by these results, which have substantial ramifications as a result. This sort of exercise has the potential to improve respiratory function and contribute to a better quality of life for asthma sufferers since it targets particular muscles that are involved in the inspiration process.','-','Baskaran A., Sam Thamburaj. A., Prabhakaradoss D., Mallika. S., Muralisankar. K.S.I. and Mathan Kumar S. (2023). Improving Asthma Patients\' Peak Expiratory Flow Rate and Reducing Dyspnoea through Inspiratory Muscle Training. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 15(5): 1382-1384.'),(6909,'157','The Effect of Myofascial Release on Post Exercise Recovery in Young Athletes','Keerthana R., Mohanraj K., Sam Thamburaj A., Catherine Shalini R. and Prabhakara Doss. D.','The-Effect-of-Myofascial-Release-on-Post-Exercise-Recovery-in-Young-Athletes-Keerthana-205.pdf','',1,'Every athlete has got a goal in life, and they work hard to achieve it. Sports performance has four major dimensions – skill, strength, endurance and recovery. Recovery after exercise is essential for the muscles and tissues to repair and build strength. Active recovery (AR) is the most common technique used in the sports field. In active recovery warm up, cool down and rest are the common techniques used by the coaches. Myofascial release (MFR), a hands-on therapeutic approach targeting the fascial system to alleviate muscular tension, restore tissue mobility, improve overall functional capacity and enhance the recovery. Sixty athletes who fulfilled the inclusion criteria were selected and divided into two groups i.e., Control group and experimental group using simple random sampling method. Control group followed general regular warm up and Experimental group received Myofascial release (MFR)combination of along with their regular warm up. Pre and post assessment of the participant’s perceived fatigue was recorded after 1 minute and then after 3 minutes when the participants used the treadmill test up to 80% of maximum heart rate. At end of the study though conventional group showed recovery, Experimental group who received warm up along with Myofascial release showed better result compared to the conventional group. Blinding participants and assessors to MFR challenges due to direct contact and manipulation, potentially leading to a placebo effect based on beliefs or expectations.','Post exercise recovery, Active recovery, Myofascial release, Maximum Heart rate, Perceived Fatigue','The findings of this research support the inclusion of Myofascial Release (MFR) techniques in warm-up routines to optimize recovery and reduce perceived fatigue in athletes. This approach has the potential to enhance the overall functional capacity and performance of athletes across various sports disciplines. Future studies should explore the long-term effects of MFR on recovery and performance, as well as its applicability to different athlete populations and specific sports contexts.','-','Keerthana R., Mohanraj K., Sam Thamburaj A., Catherine Shalini R. and Prabhakara Doss. D. (2023). The Effect of Myofascial Release on Post Exercise Recovery in Young Athletes. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 15(5): 1385-1388.'),(6910,'157','Prospects of using different Dates of Sowing for Linseed under different Row spacing System in Sandy Loam Soils of Medziphema','Ruth Kimthenvah, Lanunola Tzudir, Shivani Kumari, A. P. Singh, D. Nongmaithem, \r\nRekha Yadav and Noyingthung Kikon\r\n','Prospects-of-using-different-Dates-of-Sowing-for-Linseed-under-different-Row-spacing-System-in-Sandy-Loam-Soils-of-Medziphema-Lanunola-Tzudir-206.pdf','',1,'To find out the effectiveness of different dates of sowing and spacing in linseed (Linum usitatissimum L.), a study was carried out during the rabi of 2021 at School of Agricultural Sciences and Rural Development (SASRD), Nagaland University, Medziphema campus. Among the two dates of sowing D1 i.e., 10th November and D2 i.e., 25th November, seeds sown on 10th November were more effective in achieving maximum growth and yield attributes. Maintaining row spacing of 22.5 × 5 cm2 significantly increased plant height, plant dry weight and CGR compared to other row spacings i.e., 30 × 5 cm2, 37.5 × 5 cm2 and 45 × 5 cm2. For days to 50% flowering and physiological maturity, different dates of sowing showed a significant effect and it was observed that D1 recorded the maximum duration for 50% flowering and maturity as compared to D2. Crop sown on 10th November at row spacing of 22.5 × 5 cm2 had significance influence on the seed yield, stover yield and harvest index. ','Growth, Linum usitatissimum, Sowing, Spacing, Yield','It can be concluded from the experiment that the first date of sowing i.e., 10th November sowing was found to be suitable for producing higher yield attributes as compared to D2 i.e., 25th November. 2. Among the spacing, 22.5 × 5 cm2 was found effective for producing higher seed and stover yield and harvest index as compared to wider spacing. The spacing of 25.5 × 5 cm2 and 30 × 5 cm2 were found to be statistically at par in terms of seed, stover yield and harvest index. 3. The treatment combination of 10th November + 30 × 5 cm2 recorded the highest B:C ratio (2.51) over the other treatments and thus found to be economically feasible treatment for linseed.','-','Ruth Kimthenvah, Lanunola Tzudir, Shivani Kumari, A. P. Singh, D. Nongmaithem, Rekha Yadav and Noyingthung Kikon (2023). Prospects of using different Dates of Sowing for Linseed under different Row spacing System in Sandy Loam Soils of Medziphema. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 15(5): 1389-1394.'),(6911,'157','Correlation Between Pain, Disability and Quality of Life in Patients with Periarthritis Shoulder','Prasana K., Mohanraj K., Sam Thamburaj A., Mallika S. and Ramya K. ','Correlation-Between-Pain,-Disability-and-Quality-of-Life-in-Patients-with-Periarthritis-Shoulder-Prasana-207.pdf','',1,'The aim of the study was to find the correlation between pain and disability with quality of life in patients with Periarthritis Shoulder. Forty-eight patients from outpatient department of Vinayaka Mission’s Medical college hospital were included into the study after careful consideration of inclusion and exclusion criteria. The outcome measures of pain and functional disability was assessed through SPADI scale and Short Form - 36 was used to assess Quality of Life (QOL) in these patients. Establishing a causal relationship between pain, disability, and quality of life in patients with periarthritis shoulder was challenging. The result was analysed through Spearman’s correlation test. The results of the study showed that there was moderate positive correlation between pain component and quality of life and also it showed that there was a negative correlation between the Functional Disability and Quality of life. It signifies that as pain increases in the disability increases and quality of life decreases. Hence any treatment that address towards reducing pain will increase the quality of life in periarthritis.','Periarthritis shoulder, Pain, Disability, Quality of life','In this research, participants with periarthritis of the shoulder were asked about their levels of pain and functional handicap, as well as their overall quality of life. Patients from the outpatient department were chosen to participate in the study based on certain inclusion and exclusion criteria. The SPADI scale was used in order to determine levels of pain and functional impairment, and the Short Form-36 questionnaire was used in order to determine levels of quality of life. Spearman\'s test of correlation was used in order to conduct the investigation into the correlation. These results highlight the need for comprehensive treatment methods that target pain management as well as functional improvement in order to enhance the overall quality of life for those who have this illness.','-','Prasana K., Mohanraj K., Sam Thamburaj A., Mallika S. and Ramya K. (2023). Correlation Between Pain, Disability and Quality of Life in Patients with Periarthritis Shoulder. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 15(5): 1395-1399.'),(6912,'157','How the Human core and the Efficiency of its Functionality Improves Health and Fitness of an Individual','Joseph Oliver Raj. A., Mohanraj. K., Sam Thamburaj. A., Anitha Prem and Murali Sankar K.S.I. ','How-the-Human-core-and-the-Efficiency-of-its-Functionality-Improves-Health-and-Fitness-of-an-Individual-Joseph-208.pdf','',1,'The muscles, tendons, and ligaments that make up the torso of a human being are collectively referred to as the core of the body. This region includes the hips, pelvis, lower back, and abdomen. The core muscles are responsible for a significant portion of the work that goes into maintaining stability, balance, and general movement control. The human core is a complex system comprised of various interconnected muscles, bones, and tissues. Understanding the specific roles and interactions of each component can be challenging due to the intricate nature of the human core. The core is vital for maintaining postural stability, providing support for the spine, preventing injuries, facilitating functional movement, enhancing performance, maintaining balance and coordination, and facilitating functional independence. Exercises that target the core muscles should focus on all elements of core stability, including trunk flexion, extension, rotation, and side flexion, in order to properly train the core muscles. In order to develop the reflexive core, the core training regimen comprises movements such as planks, bridges, Russian twists, deadlifts, medicine ball throws, dead bug exercises, pallof presses, and resistant breathing exercises. It is essential to keep in mind that in order to attain a well-rounded fitness programme, core exercises should be combined with activities that focus on general strength and cardiovascular fitness. A core training programme that is personalised to an individual\'s requirements and objectives may be designed with the assistance of a physiotherapist by consulting with one.','Human Core, Core muscles, Functional core, Core training, Core strength, Core stability, Serape effect','Researchers find that the central nervous system and the functions it performs are particularly intriguing topics to study. In spite of the fact that it has been the subject of inquiry and investigation for the last forty years, there is still a significant amount to be discovered. Evidence that is more recent in relation to the core is being established. However, there is still a significant amount of need for more study on the core, particularly in the methods and procedures of assessing and quantifying core strength and stability, the core\'s involvement in boosting athletic performance, and its role in avoiding injuries.','-','Joseph Oliver Raj. A., Mohanraj. K., Sam Thamburaj. A., Anitha Prem and Murali Sankar K.S.I. (2023). How the human core and the efficiency of its functionality improves health and fitness of an individual. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 15(5): 1400-1405.'),(6913,'157','Effect of Static Stretching Versus Hold-Relax Technique on Pectoral Muscle Flexibility in Forward Round Shoulder Posture','Sam Thamburaj A., Prabhakaradoss D., Mallika. S., Murali Sankar K.S.I., Seetha Lakshmi P. and Aswini M. ','Effect-of-Static-Stretching-Versus-Hold-Relax-Technique-on-Pectoral-Muscle-Flexibility-in-Forward-Round-Shoulder-Posture--Muralishankar-209.pdf','',1,'The forward round shoulder is an abnormal posture seen most commonly in association with altered scapular kinematics. Peculiar kinematics of the scapula occurs due to tightness of the pectoral muscles. Changes in the shoulder position would cause increased stress, which results in impingement syndromes. Muscle tightness is predominant in the alteration of scapular kinematics. Stretching plays a role in relieving tightness. Traditionally static stretching is recommended, but proprioceptive neuromuscular facilitation, the Hold-Relax technique, is used as an alternative measure that would bring back the muscle length. So, the purpose of this study is to identify the effect of static stretching versus hold-relax technique on pectoral muscle flexibility in forwarding round shoulder posture. Fifty-two volunteers were selected for the experimental research based on the predetermined selection criteria. They all were divided randomly into two groups: static stretching group (SSG) and Hold-Relax group (HRG). Standardizing the duration, frequency, and intensity of the interventions was challenging to ensure consistent application across participants. The study was carried out for eight weeks, and the outcomes were shoulder external rotation range of motion using a universal goniometer. Forward shoulder posture was measured using the sahrmann technique. The result of the study calculated using SPSS 20.0, and the results show that external shoulder rotation is 11.9 with (p < 0.05) and sahrmann technique is 15.01 (p<0.05). Thus, this study concluded that there were significant differences noted in both groups. Comparing the groups, the hold-relax technique (HRG) has significantly improved compared with static stretching (SSG).','Pectoralis muscle tightness, Hold-relax technique, Static stretching, Sahrmann technique, Shoulder external rotation','This study, involving 52 volunteers with forward, round shoulder posture, divided into static stretching and Hold-Relax groups, measured shoulder external rotation range of motion and assessed forward posture. The results of the study, analysed using SPSS 20.0, revealed significant improvements in both external shoulder rotation (11.9, p < 0.05) and forward shoulder posture (15.01, p < 0.05) in both groups. However, the Hold-Relax group (HRG) showed significantly greater improvements compared to the static stretching group (SSG). Therefore, based on the findings of this study, it can be concluded that the Hold-Relax technique is more effective than static stretching in improving pectoral muscle flexibility and addressing forward, round shoulder posture. These results highlight the potential benefits of incorporating the Hold-Relax technique as part of rehabilitation and management strategies for individuals with altered scapular kinematics and forward shoulder posture.','-','Sam Thamburaj A., Prabhakaradoss D., Mallika. S., Murali Sankar K.S.I., Seetha Lakshmi P. and Aswini M. (2023). Effect of Static Stretching Versus Hold-Relax Technique on Pectoral Muscle Flexibility in Forward Round Shoulder Posture. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 15(5): 1406-1410.'),(6914,'157','A study to find out the Effectiveness of Post isometric Relaxation and Prone hip Extension after psoas major Stretching to Improve the Psoas major Flexibility in Obese Patients – A Comparative Analysis','Murali Sankar K.S.I., Balu. S. , Dhivyadharshini, Sathish Kumar C. and Sam Thamburaj A.','A-study-to-find-out-the-Effectiveness-of-Post-isometric-Relaxation-and-Prone-hip-Extension-after-psoas-major-Stretching-to-Improve-the-Psoas-major-Flexibility-in-Obese-Patients-–-A-Comparative-Murali-210.pdf','',1,'Psoas major, the biggest muscle in the lower lumbar spine, stabilises the hip and spine. The front of the hip hurts from psoas major tightness. Finding a balance between providing enough time for the interventions to have an effect and ensuring practicality for obese patients was a challenge. Lower back discomfort is strongly linked to it. Obese individuals\' failure to reach complete hip extension range might be used to assess it. This research examines psoas major flexibility in obese patients after an exercise programme. In obese patients, prone hip extension exercise following psoas major stretching improved hip extension. Two groups of 24 15–24-year-olds were studied. Group A did post-isometric relaxation, whereas Group B did psoas major stretch and prone hip extension. Universal Goniometry measured hip extension range of motion pre- and post-treatment in psoas major flexibility. Obese individuals with enhanced psoas major flexibility improved in post isometric relaxation and prone hip extension following stretching. Compared to post isometric relaxation, psoas major stretching with prone hip extension enhances extension ROM and decreases stiffness in obese individuals. Both methods worked in the investigation. In participants with psoas major tightness, psoas major stretch and prone hip extension enhance flexibility. Pre-post therapies demonstrate quick improvement.','Prone hip extension, psoas major stretch, post isometric relaxation','In conclusion, this research focused on assessing psoas major flexibility in obese patients after an exercise program aimed at improving hip extension. The psoas major muscle, being the largest muscle in the lower lumbar spine, plays a crucial role in stabilizing the hip and spine. Tightness in the psoas major can lead to pain in the front of the hip and lower back discomfort. Based on the study healthcare professionals working with obese patients, particularly those experiencing psoas major tightness and related hip and lower back discomfort, can consider incorporating psoas major stretching and prone hip extension exercises into their treatment plans.','-','Murali Sankar K.S.I., Balu. S., Dhivyadharshini, Sathish Kumar C. and Sam Thamburaj A. (2023). A study to find out the Effectiveness of Post isometric Relaxation and Prone hip Extension after psoas major Stretching to Improve the Psoas major Flexibility in Obese Patients – A Comparative Analysis. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 15(5): 1411-1414.'),(6915,'157','Effectiveness of Kinesio Taping along with Strengthening Exercise in Reducing Pain on Patients with Chondromalacia Patellae','Perumal M., Sam Thamburaj A., Mallika S. and Sudhakar T.','Effectiveness-of-Kinesio-Taping-along-with-Strengthening-Exercise-in-Reducing-Pain-on-Patients-with-Chondromalacia-Patellae-Perumal-211.pdf','',1,'The objective of this study is to assess the efficacy of kinesio taping in conjunction with strengthening exercises as a means of alleviating pain in individuals diagnosed with chondromalacia patellae. A total of fifteen subjects who met the established selection criteria were chosen through the utilisation of a simple random sampling technique. A pre-test assessment was conducted on all subjects to measure pain levels using the visual analogue scale. Following the initial assessment, the experimental group underwent a 4-week intervention consisting of kinesio taping in conjunction with strengthening exercises. Subsequently, on the 30th day, a post-test assessment was conducted to measure pain levels using a visual analogue scale, mirroring the methodology employed during the pre-test assessment. The findings of the study indicated that the experimental group, which received both kinesio taping and strengthening exercises, demonstrated a favourable outcome in terms of pain reduction for patients diagnosed with chondromalacia patellae. This combination of interventions was found to be significantly effective.','Kinesio taping, Strengthening exercise, Chondromalacia patellae, knee pain patellofemoral pain syndrome','In PFPS patients who had aberrant patellar tracking after one month, adding KT to exercise treatment did not result in any further advantages for quadriceps muscular strength or anterior thigh power score (AKPS). There is a risk that KT will have a negative impact on the amount of strength that is gained in the quadriceps over the course of one month. Because of its widespread availability, low cost, and anecdotal benefits, patellar taping has been and will continue to be used as a treatment for PFPS. It is imperative for clinicians and physical therapists to possess knowledge regarding the contradictory and limited scientific evidence pertaining to the efficacy of patellar taping as a treatment for patellofemoral pain syndrome (PFPS). Furthermore, it is essential that they communicate this information transparently to patients who express an interest in utilising taping as a therapeutic intervention.','-','Perumal M., Sam Thamburaj A., Mallika S. and Sudhakar T. (2023). Effectiveness of Kinesio Taping along with Strengthening Exercise in Reducing Pain on Patients with Chondromalacia Patellae. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 15(5): 1415-1418.');
INSERT INTO `pdf_upload` VALUES (6916,'157','Response of Integrated Nutrient Management on Growth and Yield of Garlic. (Allium sativum L.) Cv.G-282','Astik Kumar Singh, Anupam Singh, Garima Tiwari, Bhanu Prakash Singh, Saurabh Singh and Amrit Kumar Singh','Response-of-Integrated-Nutrient-Management-on-Growth-and-Yield-of-Garlic.-(Allium-sativum-L.)-Cv.G-282-Amrit-Kr-Singh-212.pdf','',1,'An experiment was conducted during Rabi season 2019-20 at the Department of Agriculture Integral Institute of Agricultural science and Technology (IIAST), Integral University, Lucknow (U.P.). The experiment was laid out in a randomized block design with seven treatments and three replications. The treatments consisted of application of different combinations of biofertilizers. Biofertilizer increased the growth characters and yield in garlic. The maximum plant height was recorded (53.20 cm), Length of leaves (40.00 cm) and the maximum diameter of stem (13.41 mm) was recorded during investigation in T6 (Azatobactor @ 4 Kg/ha + Azospirillum @ 3 Kg/ha) and maximum yield was recorded in T6- Azatobactor @ 4 Kg/ha + Azospirillum @ 3 Kg (9.00 t/ha). While minimum result was observed under T0 control.','INM, Biofertilizer, Growth and Quality.','On the basis of the forgoing discussion it can be concluded that the Integrated nutrient management is help in increasing the growth and yield of garlic. The growth and yield potential of garlic can be increased by application of (Azatobactor @ 4 Kg/ha + Azospirillum @ 3 Kg/ha) which is found most effective for increasing vegetative characters as well as increase the yield of garlic. Therefore if we are seen all these things we say this dose of biofertilizer was performed better with respect to growth characters as well as yield. ','-','Astik Kumar Singh, Anupam Singh, Garima Tiwari, Bhanu Prakash Singh, Saurabh Singh and Amrit Kumar Singh (2023). Response of Integrated Nutrient Management on Growth and Yield of Garlic. (Allium sativum L.) Cv.G-282. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 15(5): 1419-1423.'),(6917,'157','An Experimental Study on AQP1 expression in Skin Fibroblast Cells of Native Goat Breeds in Water Stress conditions','Femi Francis, Ashutosh, Ditty Maria Dominic and Namratha Valsalan','An-Experimental-Study-on-AQP1-expression-in-Skin-Fibroblast-Cells-of-Native-Goat-Breeds-in-Water-Stress-conditions-Femi-Francis-213.pdf','',1,'Coming decades are to be affected by erratic climate changes and water scarcity. The goat breeds are efficient water utilisers especially of arid adapted regions such as Sirohi. Inherent genetic traits together with physiological and morphological mechanisms helps these animals to sustain these hurdles. Genetic adaptations being the most important factor deciding the adaptation ability of the animal, these needed to be focussed. Various genes act together for the survival of the breeds in water deficit areas. The study of the genetic mechanisms used by desert breeds that have co-evolved and adapted to the arid environments where water shortage is frequently experienced is necessary due to the current water deficit and irregular precipitation pattern. So, the present study was focussed on the variation in the expression pattern of the AQP1 gene in the skin fibroblast cells of the animal at different temperature and different temperature- hypoosmotic conditions. The overall expression was found to be lower in both the breeds with much lower expression in the Barbari breed. There was a significant (p<0.05) variation in the expression of the AQP1gene between the breeds at higher temperature, normal temperature with hypoosmotic condition, and high temperature with hypoosmotic conditions. The comparatively lower expression in Barbari breed and higher expression in Sirohi breed at higher temperature with hypoosmotic condition depicts the less water stress affected by the Sirohi breed, indicating its drought adaptability. The study indicates that the Sirohi breed are well adapted to thrive in water deficit areas as compared to the Barbari breed utilising their inherent genetic adaptation on water balance. The studies may help the policy makers in deciding cross breeding policies for future era of droughts and climatic shifts.','AQP1, Barbari, Sirohi, water stress, hypoosmotic','The present study concluded that AQP1 genes are expressed in the skin fibroblast cells of goat. The expression of AQP1 is generally lower in both the Barbari and Sirohi breed with lowest expression in the Barbari breed. The Barbari breed showed lowest expression during hypo-osmotic stress at higher temperature as the concerned gene specifically transports water, which may be a mechanism for water conservation The Sirohi breed despite of the hypo-osmotic condition increased the expression of the AQP1, shows its thermotolerance and water scarce adaptability suggesting that the Sirohi breed can be bred easily in future era of erratic climate change.','-','Femi Francis, Ashutosh, Ditty Maria Dominic and Namratha Valsalan (2023). An Experimental Study on AQP1 expression in Skin Fibroblast Cells of Native Goat Breeds in Water Stress conditions. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 15(5): 1424-1427.'),(6918,'157','Neuroprotective effect of ethanolic leaf extract of Carissa macrocarpa (Eckl.) A.DC.) against Scopolamine induced memory impairment in Rats','Arul B., Karthik Pandi J., Kothai R. and Manivannan E.','Neuroprotective-effect-of-ethanolic-leaf-extract-of-Carissa-macrocarpa-(Eckl.)-A.DC.)-against-Scopolamine-induced-memory-impairment-in-Rats-Manivannan-214.pdf','',1,'The important phytoconstituents found in Carissa macrocarpa make it a promising medicinal plant with a long history of usage in traditional medicine. Therefore, the purpose of this study was to determine whether or not an ethanolic extract of Carissa macrocarpa leaves could produce neuroprotective effect on rats in Scopolamine induced memory loss. The antioxidant capacity was measured in-vitro using the ferric reducing antioxidant power (FRAP) and 1-diphenyl-2-picrylhydrazyl (DPPH) assays. Before receiving a single intraperitoneal injection of Scopolamine 1mg/kg, b.w. on day 15, rats were pre-treated with 200 and 400 mg/kg of ethanolic leaf extract of Carissa macrocarpa (EECM) of body weight for 14 days. The extent of memory loss was determined by administering a set of behavioural tests, including the Morris water maze and radial arm maze tests. At the end of the experiment, the rats were slaughtered, and the hippocampal region of their brains were removed and analysed the concentrations of acetylcholinesterase, nitric oxide, and protein. Using the DPPH assay, the IC50 values for EECM was 79.63±4.24µg, and that its total antioxidant activity was 804.24±23.42 µmol Fe (II)/g extract. In the behavioural tests of the Morri\'s water maze and the 8-arm radial maze, mice treated with EECM at 200 and 400 mg/kg showed a neuroprotective effect, with lowered acetylcholinesterase, nitric oxide, and protein levels (P<0.001). Positive neuroprotective benefits of an ethanolic extract of Carissa macrocarpa leaves against Scopolamine-induced memory impairment in rats were found in the current investigation.','Carissa macrocarpa, Scopolamine, Behavioural studies, Memory impairment, Neuroprotective','The findings of the current investigation demonstrated that an ethanolic extract of the leaves of Carissa macrocarpa exhibited potentially neuroprotective properties against the SC-induced memory impairment in rats. It\'s possible that this is because of the flavonoid’s antioxidant capabilities. The findings of the current investigation demonstrated that an ethanolic extract of the leaves of Carissa macrocarpa exhibited potentially neuroprotective properties against the SC-induced memory impairment in rats. One possible explanation for this is that the flavonoids, tannins, and polyphenols that are contained in it all have antioxidant capabilities. ','-','Arul B., Karthik Pandi J., Kothai R. and Manivannan E. (2023). Neuroprotective effect of ethanolic leaf extract of Carissa macrocarpa (Eckl.) A.DC.) against Scopolamine induced memory impairment in Rats. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 15(5): 1428-1434.'),(6919,'157','Sequential Age Dependent Gross Morphological Changes in the Spleen and Harderian Gland of Turkeys','S. Jayachitra and S. Sivagnanam','Sequential-Age-Dependent-Gross-Morphological-Changes-in-the-Spleen-and-Harderian-Gland-of-Turkeys-S-Jayachitra-215.pdf','',1,'The study on sequential age dependent changes of spleen and harderian gland in broad breasted bronze turkeys was aimed to understand the immunological role of these secondary lymphoid organs in this species according to age. To explore the age related changes in its gross morphology, the samples were taken from day old to ten months of age at monthly intervals. There were no changes noticed in the shape and morphological features of both organs which maintained its elliptical shape and human foot print shape respectively throughout the study. The variation was existed only in its morphometric parameters such as weight, length and width. The weight of both organs showed steady increase till six months of age and thereafter it was slowly reduced. The length and width of the spleen were also steadily increased along with splenic weight and showed decline phase after six months of age. There was no significant difference in the weight observed between left and right Harderian gland. The length and width of the harderian gland also showed decreasing trend along with weight as age advanced.','Age dependent changes, Spleen, Harderian gland, Broad Breasted Bronze turkey','This study on post hatch age dependent morphological evaluation of spleen and harderian gland of turkey revealed that the correlation exist between the growth of these organs and sexual maturity of turkeys. Upon sexual maturity, they showed decline phase on its morphological parameters in both the sexes. It might be due to influence of sexual hormones and regression of primary immune organs which play a role in populating the lymphocytes to secondary lymphoid tissues. ','-','S. Jayachitra and S. Sivagnanam (2023). Sequential Age Dependent Gross Morphological Changes in the Spleen and Harderian Gland of Turkeys. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 15(5): 1435-1438.'),(6920,'157','Bio-Efficacy and Phytotoxicity of Chlorantraniliprole 18.5% SC against Diamondback Moth (Plutella xylostella Linn.) in Cabbage','Suvarna Patil, R.B. Hirekurubar, Raghunatha R., Arunkumar B., Aswathanarayana Reddy, Mastiholli A.B., Shantappa T. and Shridhar D.','Bio-Efficacy-and-Phytotoxicity-of-Chlorantraniliprole-18.5-SC-against-Diamondback-Moth-(Plutella-xylostella-Linn.)-in-Cabbage-Suvarna-Patil-216.pdf','',1,'A field experiment was conducted to evaluate the bio-efficacy of new molecule of insecticide chlorantraniliprole 18.5% SC against Plutella xylostella L. infesting cabbage at Regional Horticultural Research and Extension Centre, Dharwad, Karnataka during 2019-2020. Treatments included of new molecule of chlorantraniliprole 18.5% SC along with two conventional insecticides. Results revealed that all the insecticidal treatments were significantly superior over untreated control. Among the insecticidal treatments, significantly highest per cent larval reduction of P. xylostella over control was recorded in chlorantraniliprole 75 ml/ha (81.91 % with 2.73 larvae/plant), chlorantraniliprole 50 ml/ha (79.99 % with 3.02 larvae/plant) and chlorantraniliprole 25 ml/ha (69.64 % with 4.58 larvae/plant) followed by chlorantraniliprole 18.5% SC (Market standard) 50 ml/ha (77.34 % with 3.42 larvae/plant), Indaxacarb 14.5 % SC 266 ml/ha (71.50 % with 4.30 larvae/plant) and Novaluron 10% EC 750 ml/ha (65.61 % with 5.16 larvae/ plant). The efficacy of insecticides also reflected on marketable yield of cabbage heads. The highest yield of 285.81 q/ha with 51.12 % increase in yield over control was recorded in the treatment of chlorantraniliprole18.5% SC @ 75 ml/ha followed by chlorantraniliprole18.5% SC@ 50 ml /ha with yield of 278.99 q/ha with 47.51% increase in yield over control and Indoxacarb 14.5 % SC 266 ml/ha with yield of 258.46 q/ha with 36.66 % increase in yield over control. ','Insecticide, cabbage, chlorantraniliprole18.5% SC, Diamondback moth, Plutella xylostella','It is evident from the present investigation that Chlorantraniliprole 18.5% SC @ 50 ml/ha and 75 ml/ha was found best and effective treatment for management of Diamondback moth in cabbage with higher yield (278.99 q/ha and 285.81 q/ha respectively) and highest per cent reduction in population over control (79.99 and 81.91 respectively). These treatments were found at par with each other and with Chlorantraniliprole 18.5% SC (market sample) @ 50 ml/ha and statistically superior than Indoxacarb 14.5% SC @ 266 ml/ha, Chlorantraniliprole 18.5% SC @ 25 ml/ha and Novaluron 10% EC @ 750 ml/ha. Thus, Chlorantraniliprole 18.5% SC @ 50 ml/ha could be recommended for safe use in cabbage for effective control of Diamondback moth (Plutella xylostella) and safer to natural enemies.','-','Suvarna Patil, R.B. Hirekurubar, Raghunatha R., Arunkumar B., Aswathanarayana Reddy, Mastiholli A.B., Shantappa T. and Shridhar D. (2023). Bio-Efficacy and Phytotoxicity of Chlorantraniliprole 18.5% SC against Diamondback Moth (Plutella xylostella Linn.) in Cabbage. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 15(5): 1439-1442.'),(6921,'159','Genetic Evaluation of different Genotypes of Pea (Pisum sativum L.) for Yield and its Contributing Traits','Manisha Kumari, Deepa Sharma and Aanchal Chauhan','Genetic-Evaluation-of-different-Genotypes-of-Pea-(Pisum-sativum-L.)-for-Yield-and-its-Contributing-Traits-Deepa-Sharma-99.pdf','',1,'An experiment was carried out to investigate genetic assessment for yield and yield related attributes in twenty eight pea (Pisum sativum L.) genotypes during the cropping season 2021-22. Analysis of variance revealed significant differences among all the genotypes with respect to the character studied. For the trait pod weight, the estimates of phenotypic and genotypic coefficient of variation were higher reflecting presence of high variability among all the genotypes for this trait and offered better scope for improvement. In node at which the first flower appears, pod length, pod weight, plant height, number of pods per plant, and number of seeds per pod strong heritability and high genetic advance were observed indicating that selection would be effective for these traits. Minimum disease index of rust was reported in eight genotypes showing moderate disease reaction which can be a good option with reduced number of fungicidal sprays to obtain maximum yield with minimal rust severity. Among the tested genotypes Pusa Pragati, LC-P-1 and LC-P-2 performed better in yield and other important yield contributing traits therefore, these may be used in further breeding programme or can be used for cultivation under sub-tropical conditions of Himachal Pradesh.','Genotypes, Evaluation, Heritability, Peas and Genetic advance','So, based on the overall mean performance of genotypes in the present investigation, it is concluded that the genotypes Pusa Pragati, LC-P-1 and LC-P-2 were recorded superior in terms of pod yield and other important horticultural traits. Thus, these genotypes can be recommended for further breeding programme for their superior traits or for cultivation under the sub-tropical conditions of Himachal Pradesh.','-','Manisha Kumari, Deepa Sharma and Aanchal Chauhan (2023). Genetic Evaluation of different Genotypes of Pea (Pisum sativum L.) for Yield and its Contributing Traits. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 15(6): 651-656.'),(6922,'157','Path and Correlation Analysis of Elite Rice (Oryza sativa L.) Genotypes under Diverse Situations','O. Reshma, K.M. Shivaprasad, P. Surendra and Bhaskar Reddy S.','Path-and-Correlation-Analysis-of-Elite-Rice-(Oryza-sativa-L.)-Genotypes-under-Diverse-Situations-O-Reshma-217.pdf','',1,'Rice is the second most consumed cereal crop and staple food in the world. Demand of rice is steadily increasing due to unhindered population expansion. So, increase in the yield of varieties is more important. Yield is a complex polygenic character largely influenced by its various component characters as well as by the environment. Hence, it becomes essential to estimate association of the yield with component characters and among themselves. The present study was undertaken to evaluate twenty-three genotypes for correlation and path coefficient analysis for yield and yield component traits. The studies on correlation values indicated the intensity and direction of character association in a crop. Path co-efficient analysis is used to detect characters having direct and indirect effects on grain yield. Correlation studies indicated that number of panicles hill-1, number of panicles sqm-1, days to 50% flowering had the strongest and high significant positive phenotypic correlation with grain yield. Kernel length, number of panicles hill-1, days to 50% flowering had a positive and very high direct effect on grain yield at phenotypic level, in which kernel length had highest positive direct effect on grain yield. Hence, the traits showing positive correlation and high direct effect on yield are useful in improving the yield of rice.','Path co-efficient analysis, correlation, association analysis','From the results showed that grain yield plant-1 had positive significant correlation with days to 50 % flowering, number of panicles hill-1, number of panicles sqm-1 and high positive direct effect on grain yield plant-1 was showed by kernel length, number of panicles hill-1and days to 50 % flowering. So, these traits are useful in improving the yield of rice. The high residual effect indicated that the measure of the effect of other possible independent variables, which were not included in the study were high. Hence present study suggesting the necessity of inclusion of some more traits to explain residual variability present in the genotypes which were not included now.','-','O. Reshma, K.M. Shivaprasad, P. Surendra and Bhaskar Reddy S. (2023). Path and Correlation Analysis of Elite Rice (Oryza sativa L.) Genotypes under Diverse Situations. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 15(5): 1443-1448.'),(6923,'157','A Study to Assess the Effectiveness of Mindfulness Training Program on Stress Reduction and Level of Adjustment among Students of Selected Nursing Colleges of Amritsar, Punjab','Jaspreet Kaur and Karuna Sharma','A-Study-to-Assess-the-Effectiveness-of-Mindfulness-Training-Program-on-Stress-Reduction-and-Level-of-Adjustment-among-Students-of-Selected-Nursing-Colleges-of-Amritsar-Punjab-5181-Jaspreet-Kaur-218.pdf','',1,'Stress is a key risk factor for declining physical and mental health. Although it can affect anyone of any age, circumstance, and socioeconomic class, college students may be at more risk for it and consequentially, at risk for reduced mental and physical health. The difficulty in adaption is a major issue in the modern society. Mindfulness in research, training and education is evolving; the most popular definition is ‘‘paying attention in a particular way; on purpose, in the present moment, and non-judgmentally. Mindfulness training involves cultivating the ability to be aware of our current thoughts, feelings, bodily sensations with kindness and understanding. It creates a psychological ‘space’ between one’s perception (e.g. stressful stimulus) and response (thoughts, speech and actions. Therefore mindfulness training is potentially useful in promoting well-being and stress management in the nursing profession. A quasi-experimental single group pre- post-test design was used to evaluate the effectiveness of mindfulness training program me. The study was conducted among B.Sc. Nursing 1st yr. students in selected nursing colleges in Amritsar district. Data was collected before and after implementation of stress reduction program by purposive sampling. The tools used in the present study were socio demographic data sheet, Perceived Stress Scale and Academic Adjustment scale. Data was analyzed using descriptive and inferential statistics. The study results showcased a significant increase in the mean stress level and adjustment level score, from a pre-test stress level of 28.2 ± 6.20to post-test stress level score of 9.4 ± 3.40 and a pre-test adjustment level of 19.4 ± 6.0 to post-level score of 36.7 ± 5.1. Thereby indicating the effectiveness of the intervention (p=0.001).','Stress, adjustment, adaptation, attention, mindfulness, mental health','In today\'s environment, stress has evolved into a permanent, ongoing state. Stress generation is identified as the current generation. In the current research study, an effort was made to gauge nursing students\' levels of adjustment and stress. The fact that these students face a noticeably higher incidence of stress than the overall population is a reflection of the challenging subjects they are studying, hostel living, working shifts in hospitals, and academic strain. We propose that an orientation session at the beginning of the nursing school, along with positive mental health training, can significantly lessen nursing students\' stress and improve both their professional and personal well-being.','-','Jaspreet Kaur and Karuna Sharma (2023). A Study to Assess the Effectiveness of Mindfulness Training Program on Stress Reduction and Level of Adjustment among Students of Selected Nursing Colleges of Amritsar, Punjab. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 15(5): 1449-1454.'),(6924,'147','Nitrogen Assimilation Diversity among Ramulariopsis Isolates Collected from Cotton Fields in Odisha: A Comparative Analysis','B. Boblina, A.G. Panda and A.K. Senapati','Nitrogen-Assimilation-Diversity-among-Ramulariopsis-Isolates-Collected-from-Cotton-Fields-in-Odisha-A-Comparative-Analysis-B-Boblina-128.pdf','',1,'In this study, we developed and optimized a growth medium using various nitrogen sources for the cultivation of Ramulariopsis spp. a potential threat to cotton growing areas of Odisha. The composition of basal Richard’s liquid medium was modified and the nitrogen content was replaced by alternative nitrogen sources viz., urea, ammonium chloride, potassium nitrate, ammonium nitrate, sodium nitrate, calcium nitrate, magnesium nitrate and diammonium hydrogen orthophosphate. Results showed that fungal growth was significantly higher when the nitrogen sources incorporated were potassium nitrate, sodium nitrate and diammonium hydrogen orthophosphate. Least growth and sporulation was recorded in medium with urea as nitrogen source. The findings indicated that the isolates exhibited varying degrees of utilization for different nitrogen sources. RGKN1 demonstrated the highest average dry biomass weight, followed by RPGGNPR1. Moreover, the research unveiled the existence of cultural diversity among the Ramulariopsis isolates concerning their nitrogen utilization patterns. The main challenges during the research was the standardisation of isolation procedure for the pathogen. So this research will clearly contribute towards knowing the exact nutritional requirements for the fungus to grow properly.','Variability, Ramulariopsis, nitrogen sources, grey mildew, cotton','Overall, this study highlighted the significance of nitrogen sources in supporting fungal growth and sporulation. Potassium nitrate, sodium nitrate, and diammonium hydrogen orthophosphate were identified as the most favorable nitrogen sources for promoting the growth of Ramulariopsis isolates. These findings have the potential to be valuable in enhancing the culture conditions for the fungus and advancing its subsequent investigation. \r\nFuture studies should focus on considering other attributes like colony morphology, pH, temperature and photoperiod requirement, differential reactions on cultivars and genetic constitution in order to obtain a clearer picture regarding the basis of variability among the fungal isolates collected from different geographical locations. Further research could also explore the underlying mechanisms by which different nitrogen sources influence the growth and sporulation of Ramulariopsis isolates, providing insights into the fungal physiology and optimizing cultivation conditions for potential applications.\r\n','-','B. Boblina, A.G. Panda and A.K. Senapati (2022). Nitrogen Assimilation Diversity among Ramulariopsis Isolates Collected from Cotton Fields in Odisha: A Comparative Analysis. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 14(4a): 751-754.'),(6925,'157','Synergistic Interaction of Probiotics in Multispecies Filtrate Form against Food Borne Pathogens','Anita Raisagar and Sangeeta Shukla','Synergistic-Interaction-of-Probiotics-in-Multispecies-Filtrate-Form-against-Food-Borne-Pathogens-Anita-Raisagar-219.pdf','',1,'Previous studies suggested that the multi-strain probiotic preparation exhibits better inhibitory activity against food borne pathogens as compared to single strain probiotic preparation. Thus, in the present study, two different probiotic bacteria were prepared as multi-species filtrate form and evaluated for their antibacterial properties against selected four food borne pathogens. Lacticaseibacillus casei and Bifidobacterium bifidum was selected as probiotics in the present study. Against all the pathogens, multispecies probiotic filtrate showed high inhibition capacity. The recorded zone of inhibition was found greater with multispecies probiotic filtrate as compared to mono-strain form. In calculation of GIIs, the interaction was found synergistic between the selected probiotics. Thus, probiotics in mixed form might be useful for treatment of food borne diseases. ','Bifidobacterium bifidum, Food borne pathogens, Lacticaseibacillus casei, Multispecies, Mono-strain, Probiotic Filtrate, Synergistic effect','In the present study, the selected probiotic bacteria Lacticaseibacillus casei and Bifidobacterium bifidum possess antibacterial activity against selected food borne pathogens and showed synergistic interaction in combined form as multi-species probiotic filtrate. Multi-species probiotic filtrate showed higher zone of inhibition against pathogens as compared to mono-strain form. Thus, the study also concluded that to get a better result in food borne disease prevention, probiotic bacteria would be used as multi-species filtrate form. However, further study is required to check the efficiency of selected probiotic culture in multi-species filtrate form against another enteric and food borne pathogens. There is also a need of in vivo study of effect of multi-species probiotic filtrate against tested food borne pathogens.','-','Anita Raisagar and Sangeeta Shukla (2023). Synergistic Interaction of Probiotics in Multispecies Filtrate Form against Food Borne Pathogens. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 15(5): 1455-1459.'),(6926,'157','Studies on insect Pollinator Diversity, species Richness, and Evenness on Cucumber (Cucumis sativus L.) in the Eastern Dry Zone of Karnataka','Nishchith S., N. Aswathanarayana Reddy, Ramegowda G.K. and Krishna H.C.','Studies-on-insect-Pollinator-Diversity,-species-Richness,-and-Evenness-on-Cucumber-(Cucumis-sativus-L.)-in-the-Eastern-Dry-Zone-of-Karnataka-Nishchith-S-220.pdf','',1,'A study on the diversity of insect pollinators was carried out at the College of Horticulture, Kolar during the summer season of 2020-21 on cucumber (var. Chitra). The crop was raised and maintained to attract insect pollinators. The probability of entomophilous pollination depends upon the diversity of insects. In the present study, a total of 19 insect species was found as pollinators for Cucumis sativus (Cucumber) belongs to thirteen families and five insect orders (Hymenoptera, Diptera, Coleoptera, Lepidoptera, and Hemiptera). Of which, Hymenoptera was found to be the most abundant order followed by Diptera. Apidae was found to be the most abundant family followed by Chrysomelidae and Sarcophagidae. The study revealed that Apis cerana was found to be a major pollinator, followed by A. florea during the entire flowering period. Among the insect pollinators, six species were found foraging for both pollen and nectar, whereas seven species were found foraging for only pollen and six species for only nectar. Shannon index (H) for pollinator diversity was estimated as 0.9159 in four weeks duration of peak flowering, which reflects high species diversity. Simpson index (D) for species richness of insect pollinators was estimated as 0.2162 in four weeks duration of peak flowering indicating the higher abundance of the pollinator species. There is more than a 21 per cent chance of different insect pollinators when randomly captured in the summer season and the Pielous index (J) for species evenness of insect pollinators was estimated as 0.7162 in four weeks duration of peak flowering, indicating moderate evenness during the entire flowering period. Information regarding species eveness of the different insect pollinators is very limited. The following research work helps in filling the gap and also suggest information about the Bioanalytical tool, Pielous index in Eastern dry Zone of Karnataka and other plant- pollinators relationship in cucumber crop.','Cucumis sativus, evenness on cucumber, faunal diversity, Insect pollinators, species richness','Cucumis sativus attracts more insect pollinators. Bees along with other insect pollinators play an important role in the pollination of cucumber. During this study, we come across 19 species of insect pollinators, which indicates the richness of bee pollinators for this single crop. Other indices also reveal the high diversity of insect pollinators and their dominance in this crop. It was proposed that farmers actively participate in bee farming in their respective fields because, without the presence of insect pollinators, agricultural work cannot be sustained. ','-','Nishchith, S., N. Aswathanarayana Reddy, Ramegowda G.K. and Krishna H.C. (2023). Studies on insect Pollinator Diversity, species Richness, and Evenness on Cucumber (Cucumis sativus L.) in the Eastern Dry Zone of Karnataka. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 15(5): 1460-1465.'),(6927,'157','Field Evaluation of Phosphatase and Phytase Producing Fungi under Clusterbean and Pearl Millet in arid Ecosystems','Amita Gharu Dhariwal, Indira Rathore and J.C. Tarafdar','Field-Evaluation-of-Phosphatase-and-Phytase-Producing-Fungi-under-Clusterbean-and-Pearl-Millet-in-arid-Ecosystems-JC-TARAFDAR-221.pdf','',1,'Four effective phosphatase and phytase-producing fungi, Aspergillus candidus, Aspergillus ustus, Curvularia lunata, and Phoma species, were selected for their native P mobilisation under field conditions, using clusterbean and pearl millet as test crops. The main aim was to increase agro ecosystem productivity and get rid of the negative effects of chemical fertilizers. The inoculation of selected fungi resulted in a significant enhancement in the grain yield (16–28%), plant biomass (10–57%), straw yield (19–38%), and plant P absorption (2–10%) in clusterbean. There was between 6 and 61 % more in acid phosphatase activity, between 9 and 66 % higher in alkaline phosphatase activity and between 13 and 50 % additional phytase activity under inoculated plots of clusterbean as compared to the uninoculated (control) plots. Due to increased phosphatase and phytase enzyme activity of inoculated fungi, pearl millet saw improvements in grain yield, plant biomass, straw yield, and plant P uptake of 12–24%, 2–54%, 18–40%, and 3-12%, respectively. In pearl millet, 10-48%, 10-49%, and 6-47% improvement in acid phosphatase, alkaline phosphatase and phytase were recorded, respectively, at different growth periods compared to control. Among the four fungus examined, Phoma species was found to be the best P mobilizers, both under pearl millet and clusterbean. Irrespective of fungi and crops, P mobilisation from mineral sources was often higher than that from organic and phytin sources. Overall 40 to 85% more microbial than plant involvement was seen in the mobilisation of various P components. In general, 10.6-21.3% more mineral P and 11.5-19.2% more phytin P was hydrolyzed in clusterbean compared to pearl millet. Selected fungi are especially important for crop sustainability because they are effective under low phosphorus availability and when nutrients are bonded to organic matter and soil particles.','Field assessment, Clusterbean, Pearl millet, Arid ecosystems. P mobilising fungi','The present result clearly demonstrated the importance of efficient phosphatases and phytase producing fungi for growth, biomass, yield and P nutrition of two most important arid crops namely pearl millet (cereal) and clusterbean (legume) under harsh arid environment. The results also pointed out how the P inflow as well as plant and microbial contribution to acquire P changes in different growth stages under field condition. The contribution from different P fractions for plant nourishment was also distinctly demonstrated. The results also emphasises the importance of plant growth promoting fungi for global food production.','-','Amita Gharu Dhariwal, Indira Rathore and J.C. Tarafdar (2023). Field Evaluation of Phosphatase and Phytase Producing Fungi under Clusterbean and Pearl Millet in arid Ecosystems. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 15(5): 1466-1481.'),(6928,'151','Evaluation of Quality of Instant Khaman Mix','Sudhirkumar B. Vinzuda and Navneet Kumar','Evaluation-of-Quality-of-Instant-Khaman-Mix-Sudhirkumar-B-Vinzuda-4.pdf','',1,'Due to its commercial importance and the fact that it is highly perishable, the tomato (Solanum lycopersicum) is one of the most researched vegetables in the field of scientific study. It is estimated that post-harvest losses range from 25 to 50 per cent in tropical countries from the time the tomato is harvested until it is consumed. It is necessary to turn it into goods that can be stored on shelves for use during the off-season in order to make up for the losses that occur after the harvest. Tomato can be dried on foam mat, which is a helpful procedure for preserving it in powder form. Fresh tomatoes are used to make a variety of products, such as puree, sauce, ketchup, pickles, etc., but due to their high moisture content, these products have a shorter shelf life. The main challenge in this industry is the high expense of the equipment required to produce better-quality products from fresh tomatoes. Because of this, the study\'s main contribution is to the creation of low-cost processing and packaging procedures that will enable the delivery of shelf-stable, high-quality, and convenient goods in today\'s competitive market. The primary objective of this research is to conduct an evaluation of the quality of the instant khaman mix. During the phases of the study, the tomato khaman powder quick mix was tested. The parameters, such as thickness, bulk density, moisture content, ascorbic acid, acidity, pH, total soluble solid and sensory of instant mix tomato khaman powder were carried out at concentrations of tomato powder ranging from 5 to 25 g, with gram flour concentrations ranging from 75 to 95 g, sodium bicarbonate concentrations ranging from 3 to 7 g and normal salt concentrations ranging from 3 to 7 g. As outputs, the parameters (thickness, bulk density, moisture content, ascorbic acid, acidity, pH, total soluble solid and sensory) were measured and analysed. In order to ascertain the conditions under which performance is maximised, a numerical multi-response method was used. This approach takes into account several responses simultaneously. Maximum attractiveness was reached at tomato powder concentration of 17.04 g, gram flour concentration of 87.90 g, sodium bicarbonate concentration of 5.46 g, and regular salt concentration of 2.83 g, which together make up the compromised ideal condition for instant mix tomato khaman powder.','Tomato; Foaming Properties; Drying Characteristics; Instant Mix Tomato; Quality; Instant Khaman Powder Mix','During the experimentation, the instant mix of tomato khaman powder was assessed. The parameters of the instant mix tomato khaman powder (thickness, bulk density, moisture content, ascorbic acid, acidity, pH, total soluble solid and sensory) were tested at concentrations of tomato powder (5, 10, 15, 20 and 25 g) with concentrations of gram flour (75, 80, 85, 90 and 95 g), sodium bicarbonate (3, 4, 5, 6 and 7 g) and regular salt (normal salt) (1, 2, 3, 4 and 5 g). The reactions were measured for the parameters (thickness, bulk density, moisture content, ascorbic acid, acidity, pH, total soluble solid and sensory). A numerical multi-response technique was used to determine the ideal circumstances. The thickness, bulk density, moisture content, ascorbic acid, acidity, pH and total soluble solids of instant mix tomato khaman were 2.11 cm, 0.46 g/cc, 53.58% (wb), 17.95 mg/100g, 0.49%, 7.69 and 5.53°Brix, respectively. The quick mix tomato khaman powder received scores of 7.67, 8.20 and 8.12 in terms of aroma, flavour and overall acceptance respectively. The compromised optimal condition for instant mix tomato khaman powder was attained at maximum desirability at tomato powder concentration of 17.04 g, gram flour concentration of 87.90 g, sodium bicarbonate concentration of 5.46 g and normal salt concentration of 2.83 g.','-','-'),(6929,'157','Hyperthermia Augments Chemotherapy on Supraglottic Carcinoma: A Case Report','Damodarakumaran, Gugloth Vikas Babu, Subramanyan Sevvel and Mustaq Ahamed','Hyperthermia-Augments-Chemotherapy-on-Supraglottic-Carcinoma-A-Case-Report-Damodarakumaran-222.pdf','',1,'Supraglottic carcinoma is the dominant laryngeal tumor common in India due to chronic alcohol abuse and smoking. Patients often present with non-specific throat pain, dysphagia, and neck lymphadenopathy as the primary disease features of supraglottic carcinoma. In this study, we report a case of a 61-year-old male with a complaint of pain over the right neck with swelling, an open wound with white discharge, and was diagnosed with supraglottis malignancy stage IV with N3 metastasis. The patient was put under the first chemotherapy treatment cycle with paclitaxel, carboplatin, and local hyperthermia (HPT) on the supraglottis. After HPT treatment, the tumor responded and was controlled well, the cancer wound was shrunken, and the pain was reduced significantly. Neoadjuvant chemotherapy and regional HPT have additive antitumor and antimetastatic effects promoting patient recovery. HPT approach has significant merits, especially for treating superficial and deep metastatic sites. ','Anticancer, carcinoma, chemotherapy, hyperthermia, supraglottic neoplasm','The present study investigated the most promising treatment modalities for supraglottic carcinoma using a combination of hyperthermia and chemotherapy. The cancers in the supraglottic region are usually superficial compared to other forms of deep organ malignancies, and it is very appropriate to use hyperthermia along with chemotherapy to control cancer. The synergistic effect of hyperthermia and chemotherapy also augments the rate of wound healing, pain reduction, and swelling, suggesting that chemotherapy and regional HPT have additive antitumor and antimetastatic effects promoting patient recovery. HPT approach has significant merits, especially for treating superficial as well as deep metastatic sites. However, it should be noted that hyperthermia is not suitable for all types of cancer, and several factors, such as tumor location, stage, and patient comorbidities, can influence its effectiveness. Therefore, its use in cancer treatment should be evaluated case-by-case. ','-','Damodarakumaran, Gugloth Vikas Babu, Subramanyan Sevvel and Mustaq Ahamed (2023). Hyperthermia Augments Chemotherapy on Supraglottic carcinoma: A Case Report. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 15(5): 1482-1485.'),(6930,'157','Studies on Degradation of Hydrocarbon by Biosurfactant –Diesel Oil','Uma Maheswari R. and Selvamohan T.','Studies-on-Degradation-of-Hydrocarbon-by-Biosurfactant-–Diesel-Oil-Uma-Maheswari-R-223.pdf','',1,'The energy resources mainly petroleum and petroleum hydrocarbons are major pollutants of the environment. The oil and oil products contamination may cause severe harm and hence, the attention has been remunerated in the development of alternative technologies for elimination of these contaminants. Biosurfactants were used in the remediation of oil pollution due to advantages such as biodegradability and low toxicity. The biosurfactants are produced from low cost substrates like agro-industrial wastes which reduce the cost of production. Biosurfactants and bioemulsifiers are amphiphilic compounds and are produced as extracellular or parts of the cell membrane by bacteria. The biosurfactants produced by them are nontoxic, biodegradable do not cause any harm to the environment. The present study was unique characteristics of biosurfactant produced by Pseudomonas fluorescens make them a better candidate from physical methods for the removal of hydrocarbons and environmental application due to hydrocarbon addressed with such biosurfactant producing strains of Pseudomonas fluorescens.','Biosurfactants, Pollutants, Biodegradable, Hydrocarbons, bioemulsifiers, Pseudomonas fluorescens','Biosurfactant producing Pseudomonas fluorescens has the ability to degrade the hydrocarbon at optimized parameters in laboratory condition. In our study, 17 strain used for the degradation to clear that the Pseudomonas fluorescens utilized the hydrocarbon as sole carbon source multiplication in the soil degrading the hydrocarbon due to the production of biosurfactant, and also helped to maintain the soil fertility by the removal of hydrocarbon pollutant. The biosurfactants produced by them are non toxic, biodegradable do not cause any harm to the environment. These unique characteristics of biosurfactant produced by Pseudomonas fluorescens make them better candidate from physical methods for the removal of hydrocarbons and environmental application due to hydrocarbon addressed with such biosurfactant producing strains of Pseudomonas fluorescens. ','-','Uma Maheswari R. and Selvamohan T. (2023). Studies on Degradation of Hydrocarbon by Biosurfactant –Diesel Oil. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 15(5): 1486-1491.'),(6931,'157','Studies on Physico-chemical and Textural Analysis of Paneer using Lactobionic Acid as an Acidulant','M.K. Gayathri Devi, K. Sudha, Rita Narayanan and V. Nithyalakshmi','Studies-on-Physico-chemical-and-Textural-Analysis-of-Paneer-using-Lactobionic-Acid-as-an-Acidulant-MK--Gayathri-Devi-224.pdf','',1,'In recent years, the functionalization and marketing of bioactive milk compounds evolved as an important remunerative sector in the dairy industry. Lactose is among the most vital components of bovine milk and it also has various functional derivatives such as lactitol, lactulose, siallylactose and lactobionic acid. Lactobionic acid (LBA) was first found in Caucasian sea yoghurt and is composed of polyhydroxy gluconic acid which is bond to galactose sugar. In recent times, LBA is widely recognized in the food sector for its acidulant, antioxidant and prebiotic properties. This research work was carried out to develop the paneer with the addition of different levels of LBA. The acidulant property of LBA was optimized in paneer preparation by combination with the citric acid viz., 0.5%, 1% and 1.5% LBA. The addition of different levels of LBA had a positive effect on the physico-chemical, yield and textural parameters of paneer. In the present study, it was observed that there was a significant change was observed in yield, total solids recovery percentage and also textural parameters. LBA added paneer increases the yield percentage from 15.71 to 18.57% with a total solids recovery percentage from 56.55 to 65.36%. According to the textural analysis, LBA significantly influenced the hardness of paneer. Therefore, the results of this study indicated that paneer prepared with the addition of lactobionic acid yielded maximum total solids recovery percentage and best textural attributes.','Lactobionic Acid, Paneer, Yield, Total solids recovery, Acidulant','In conclusion, the yield and total solids recovery percentage of paneer were enhanced by the inclusion of different levels of LBA. There was a highly significant (P<0.05) increase in moisture, protein, yield and total solids recovery percentage and also changes in textural parameters of LBA added paneer samples compared to control. However, the paneer prepared in this present study with 1% LBA and 1% citric acid had a maximum yield, total solids recovery percentage, and textural properties than the control sample. From the result of the present study, it may be concluded that the inclusion of LBA for the preparation of paneer could be successfully utilized in the future to improve the yield and total solids recovery percentage.','-','M.K. Gayathri Devi, K. Sudha, Rita Narayanan and V. Nithyalakshmi (2023). Studies on Physico-chemical and Textural Analysis of Paneer using Lactobionic Acid as an Acidulant. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 15(5): 1492-1496.'),(6932,'157','Lysinibacillus fusiformis (Bacillaceae) isolated from Red Soil Reported for the First Time as Effective in Control of Mosquito Vectors','Abhisubesh Vijayakumar, Manikandan Sivaprakasam, Aneha Kunnikuruvan, Jibi Lukose, Bhagyashree Bora, Kakhuangailiu Gangmei, Sahadiya Mandodan, Hemaladkshmi Padmanaban, Mathivanan Ashokkumar, Vijayalakshmi Krishnamoorthy and Poopathi Subbiah','Lysinibacillus fusiformis (Bacillaceae) isolated from Red Soil Reported for the First Time as Effective in Control of Mosquito Vectors-Subbiah Poopathi-225.pdf','',1,'Mosquitoes are the primary vectors for the transmission of human diseases, like dengue, chikungunya, and Zika transmitted by Aedes mosquitoes. Culex mosquitoes are vectoring pathogens for the diseases like lymphatic filariasis, West Nile virus, and Japanese encephalitis. Malaria is transmitted by Anopheles sp. Microbial control offers an alternative to chemical pesticides that have detrimental effects on the ecosystem. Bacillus thuringiensis is the most widely deployed mosquitocidal bacteria, offering sustainable alternatives to chemical insecticides. Exploration of novel biocontrol agents is crucial to understanding the bacteria-mosquito interaction, expanding the biopesticide industry, and countering the development of resistance. In the present study, different types of soils like red, clay, black, and alluvial soils from the agricultural fields were collected from 2021 to 2022 and examined for any mosquitocidal bacterial isolates. Microbiological examinations such as serial dilutions, plating, colony isolation, and bacterial culture were carried out in the laboratory from 310 samples collected from different locations. Mosquito toxicity (bioassays) was carried out against the mosquito larvae (Anopheles stephensi, Aedes aegypti, and Culex quinquefasciatus) to screen the potential bacterial colony. Thirteen isolates out of 310 samples showed promising results. Eight isolates were identified from red soil, four isolates were from black soil and one was from clay soil. The Phylogenetic tree from the 16S rRNA sequence of the isolate (TVL-KU23) showed that the potential bacterium was Lysinibacillus fusiformis (Bacillaceae). It is the first report that this strain was investigated from red soil with mosquitocidal properties. ','Lysinibacillus fusiformis, mosquito species, bioassays, red soil, 16S rRNA sequence','With no mosquito-specific medications or vaccinations, mosquito-borne diseases can be effectively countered only through vector control strategies. The microbial pesticide industry constantly demands the exploration of new effective mosquitocidal bacteria in terms of toxicity as well as environmental safety. As the soil is the primary source of microorganisms, we have explored red soil, black soil, and clay soil for mosquitocidal bacteria. This study examines the microhabitats of the Western Ghats region in Tirunelveli and Tenkasi districts in Tamil Nadu, India, focusing on their diverse mosquitocidal bacteria. This study reports mosquitocidal bacterial isolate Lysinibacillus fusiformis from red soils for the first time in India. ','-','Abhisubesh Vijayakumar, Manikandan Sivaprakasam, Aneha Kunnikuruvan, Jibi Lukose, Bhagyashree Bora, Kakhuangailiu Gangmei, Sahadiya Mandodan, Hemaladkshmi Padmanaban, Mathivanan Ashokkumar, Vijayalakshmi Krishnamoorthy and Poopathi Subbiah (2023). Lysinibacillus fusiformis (Bacillaceae) isolated from Red Soil Reported for the First Time as Effective in Control of Mosquito Vectors. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 15(5): 1497-1503.'),(6933,'147','Impact of Denavelling and Bunch Feeding on Yield, Yield Attributing Characters and Shelf-life in Banana cv. Champa','Shefalika Nayak, Sunil Samal, Subash Ch. Swain and Saudamini Swain','Impact-of-Denavelling-and-Bunch-Feeding-on-Yield,-Yield-Attributing-Characters-and-Shelf-life-in-Banana-cv.-Champa-Subash-Ch.-Swain-129.pdf','',1,'Bananas are heavy feeders of nutrients and thus need balanced nutrition for optimum growth and fruit production and in turn obtain potential yields. Any deviation in the supply of nutrients at this crucial stage affects the bunch size and quality. During fruit development, soil application of nutrient uninhibited flow of nutrients to the developing bunch influence the poor filling, development and quality of fingers. Soil characters may cause considerable loss to the soil applied nutrients leading to insufficient supply of nutrient after shooting to meet the nutrient demand of developing bunch. Hence, bunch feeding of nutrients provides a considerable scope not only for the effective utilization of nutrients as source to a sink but also to safeguard the economy of the farmer by improving the uniformity in bunch shape, yield and quality. A field experiment was conducted to study the effect of denavelling and bunch feeding of nutrients on the bunch cum finger parameters of banana cv. Champa (AAB) at AICRP on fruits, Horticulture Research Station, Odisha University of Agriculture and Technology (OUAT) Bhubaneswar during the year 2019. The experiment was laid out in Randomized Block Design (RBD) with 3 replications and 9 treatments including untreated check. The results revealed that the bunch feeding of nutrient along with cowdung slurry significantly influenced the bunch character, yield and post-harvest quality. The treatment T5 (denavelling + bunch feeding with cow dung slurry and K2SO4 @15 g/plant) significantly increased yield and yield attributing characters viz., bunch length (63.66cm), bunch girth (86.78cm), hand weight (1.61kg), bunch weight (13.36kg), yield (32.74 t/ha) and finger parameters viz., finger weight (86.28g), finger length (15.32cm), finger girth (14.77cm), pulp to peel ratio (4.86) and rind thickness (3.45mm) which was closely followed by T4 (denavelling + bunch feeding with cow dung slurry and K2SO4 @ 7.5g/plant) for all the above mentioned characters. The post-harvest parameters such as TSS (22.570B), Total sugar (20.23%) and shelf life (16.91 days) were found maximum in T5 followed by T4 the above treatment. Thus, the study clearly indicates that denavelling combined with nutrient support in the form of bunch feeding i.e., T5: denavelling + bunch feeding with cow dung slurry and K2SO4 @15 g/plant) is a beneficial operation to boost the yield of Champa banana which is widely cultivated in Odisha.','Denavelling, bunch feeding, Champa Banana','Denavelling along with bunch feeding through cow dung slurry was found effective increasing in bunch parameters, finger parameter, fruit quality and shelf-life in banana cv. Champa. The results clearly indicated that supplementing sulphate of potash application through bunch feeding along with cow dung slurry increased bunch parameters such as bunch length (63.66cm), bunch girth (86.78cm), bunch weight (13.36kg), hand weight (1.61kg), yield (32.74 t/ha) and finger parameter viz., finger weight (86.28g), finger girth (14.77cm), finger length (15.32cm), pulp to peel ratio (4.86) rind thickness (3.45mm). The postharvest parameters such as TSS (22.57°B), total sugar (20.23%) significantly and responded positively to nutrient supplements after denavelling. Hence, the present investigation shows the banana bunch weight can be enhanced by the direct feeding of nutrients to the bunch.','-','Shefalika Nayak, Sunil Samal, Subash Ch. Swain and Saudamini Swain (2022). Impact of Denavelling and Bunch Feeding on Yield, Yield Attributing Characters and Shelf-life in Banana cv. Champa. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 14(4a): 755-760.'),(6934,'157','Development and Popularization of Value added Products from Thavun- An Under Utilized Palmyra Product','Subha R.* and Devi T.','Development-and-Popularization-of-Value-added-Products-from-Thavun--An-Under-Utilized-Palmyra-Product-Subha-R-226.pdf','',1,'The current study focuses on the development of food products using thavun, analyzing its nutritional composition, and popularizing the developed thavun products. Thavun is sweet and spongy haustorium that is an early germinate product from dry panampazham that has fallen on the ground after complete ripening. Palmyra Thavun is an unpopular, underutilized and seasonally available perishable product with limited post-harvest shelf life. Palmyra Thavun possess anti-microbial, antioxidant, anti - diabetic and anti-inflammatory properties and also rich in phytochemicals. In this study, food products like jam, syrup, jujube, pachadi and idli powder were developed using thavun and standardized. The sensory evaluation for the developed thavun food products was carried out with the help of 10 trained panel members using 5-point Hedonic scale. The results of organoleptic evaluation concludes that Sample A - Thavun Jam (100% of thavun) and Sample A - Thavun syrup (100 % of thavun syrup), Sample C (80 % of thavun jujube and Sample B (60 % of thavunidli powder) gained high mean score value than the other samples. Analysis of proximate composition and the determination of phytochemicals and antioxidant activity of the selected palmyra thavun food products were carried out. It is evident that palmyra thavun products are rich in micro and macronutrients, phytochemicals and antioxidant. The microbial load of the packed thavun food products at 5 days intervals using the plate count method was analyzed. Zip-lock pack showed minimal microbial count than the developed palmyra thavun food products packed with the aluminium foil cover. The cost of the products was calculated and the popularization among the self-help group was performed. The cost of the developed Thavun Products (per 100g) are Thavun Jam (Rs. 32), Thavun Syrup (Rs. 35), Thavun Jujube (Rs. 38), Thavun Pachadi (Rs. 40) and Thavun Idly Powder (Rs. 55). The study results portray that the development of food products using palmyra thavun, effectively extends the shelf life of an under-utilized thavun.','Palmyra Thavun, Spongy haustorium, Hedonic scale, Popularization, Self-help group','Palmyra thavun is an under-utilized, unpopular, seasonally-available and perishable palm product with a limited post-harvest shelf-life. Apparently \"Thavun\" was not exposed to the millennial population to taste. The development of thavun based food products mainly focuses on extending the shelf-life of the palmyra thavun. Modern procedures must be used to increase the shelf life of value-added palmyra thavun goods for improved distribution, as well as processing methods to preserve them for use in the off-season. Adding value to thavun entails altering their physical appearance, which improves their acceptance, availability, market viability, and cost-benefit analysis for the producer. The development and popularization of thavun food products gained maximum acceptability.','-','Subha R. and Devi T. (2023). Development and Popularization of Value Added Products from Thavun- An Under Utilized Palmyra Product. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 15(5): 1504-1511.'),(6935,'157','An Approach of Euphorbia hirta Extract on Wound Healing Activity in Albino Rats','Sengodan Kalaivani, Somannan Jayanthi, Kannan Revathi and Rajamanickam Chandrasekaran','An-Approach-of-Euphorbia-hirta-Extract-on-Wound-Healing-Activity-in-Albino-Rats-Kannan-Revathi-227.pdf','',1,'Wound healing is a complex process that involves various cellular and biochemical events. Traditional medicine has long recognized the potential of plant extracts in promoting wound healing. This study aimed to evaluate the wound healing activity of Euphorbia hirta. E. hirta is widely used traditional medicine in worldwide specifically in Asian countries for treating various ailments. To validate the ethanopharmacological study of E. hirta plant extract in wound healing, antioxidant was studied. The improved tissue regeneration at the wound site and results was confirmed that efficacy of E. hirta in wound healing activity is highly increased compared with the ointment. In addition, E. hirta showed that free radical scavenging activity, the results showed that significantly increased rate of activity. The findings of this study suggest that the selected plant extracts possess significant wound healing activity.','Wound healing, Euphorbia hirta, antioxidant, cancer, cell line, western blotting','The findings of this study suggest that the E. hirta extract possess significant wound healing activity. The observed effects may be attributed to the presence of bioactive compounds that stimulate cellular processes involved in wound healing, including cell proliferation, collagen synthesis, and angiogenesis. Further investigation is warranted to elucidate the underlying mechanisms and identify the specific active components responsible for the observed effects.','-','Sengodan Kalaivani, Somannan Jayanthi, Kannan Revathi and Rajamanickam Chandrasekaran (2023). An Approach of Euphorbia hirta Extract on Wound Healing Activity in Albino Rats. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 15(5): 1512-1515.'),(6936,'161','Estimation of Combining Ability using Line × Tester Analysis for Yield and its Contributing Traits in Aromatic rice (Oryza sativa L.)','Khemlata Thakur, Abhinav Sao, Deepak Gauraha, Sunil Nair and Krishna Tandekar','Estimation-of-Combining-Ability-using-Line-×-Tester-Analysis-for-Yield-and-its-Contributing-Traits-in-Aromatic-rice-(Oryza-sativa-L.)-Khemlata-Thakur-1.pdf','',1,'The current investigation was conducted to study the estimates of combining ability and heterosis in order to comprehend the nature and kind of gene action, select superior genotypes, and generate the best cross combinations. Combining ability study for eleven yield characteristics was carried out on 25 crosses generated by utilising Line × Tester mating design. with 5 traditional non-aromatic lines including PKV HMT, RFS-2019-3, Zincorice MS, HMT Sona and Improved Samba Mahsuri and 5 aromatic testers including Pusa1121, Badshahbhog Sel-1, Trombay Chhattisgarh Dubraj Mutant (TCDM-1), Chhattisgarh Devbhog and R2281-308-1-185-1. ANOVA for Line × Tester design revealed that there was significant variance in treatments for all eleven characters studied. For all characters except panicle length, the variation due to line × tester effects were noted as significant. For all traits studied, the magnitude of Specific combining ability (SCA) variance was found to be higher than the General combining ability (GCA) variance, with the exception of days to 50% flowering, plant height (cm), panicle length (cm), and biological yield per plant (g), indicating a significant role of non-additive gene action (dominance & epistasis) in controlling these traits. The genotype PKV HMT among the lines and Pusa 1121 among the testers were found to be the best general combiners for grain yield per plant (g). Among the crosses the best specific combiner for grain yield per plant (g) observed for PKV HMT/Pusa 1121, Improved Samba Mahsuri/R2281-308-1-185-1, and Improved Samba Mahsuri/Chhattisgarh Devbhog, so, these hybrids can be utilized either for heterosis breeding or multiple cross-breeding programmes to acquire transgressive segregants and a large genetic base population for the improvement of quality rice production.','Gene action, Non- additive, Specific combining ability, General combining ability, Heterosis','From the current study it is observed that the highest positive significant SCA effects for grain yield per plant (g) were recorded for cross PKV HMT/Pusa 1121, Improved Samba Mahsuri/R2281-308-1-185-1 and Improved Samba Mahsuri/Chhattisgarh Devbhog. This indicate there is involvement of non-additive gene action and they are effective combinations for creating high-yielding cultivars. The crosses PKV HMT/Trombay Chhattisgarh Dubraj Mutant (TCDM-1), PKV HMT/ Badshahbhog Sel-1, and Zinco Rice MS/Pusa 1121 showed the highest negative significant specific combining ability effects for days to 50% flowering, this indicates that there is a preponderance of additive gene action, so progeny selection will be effective for genetic improvement of this trait, negative values direct that these are good combiners and indicated the efficacy of these crosses in breeding for earliness. The maximum negative significant SCA effects have shown by cross HMT Sona/Pusa 112 followed by RFS-2019-3/ Badshahbhog Sel-1 and Zinco Rice MS/ Badshahbhog Sel-1 for plant height (cm) represented in Table 5. These crosses were used to develop dwarf and semi dwarf varieties.','-','Khemlata Thakur, Abhinav Sao, Deepak Gauraha, Sunil Nair and Krishna Tandekar (2023). Estimation of Combining Ability using Line × Tester Analysis for Yield and its Contributing Traits in Aromatic rice (Oryza sativa L.). Biological Forum – An International Journal, 15(7): 01-09.'),(6937,'161','Studies on Rheological Properties of 3D Printable Millet Based Dough','J. Sanuujabertini, M. Balakrishnan, S. Parveen, R. Ravikumar and A.P. Mohan Kumar ','Studies-on-Rheological-Properties-of-3D-Printable-Millet-Based-Dough-J.-Sanuujabertini-2.pdf','',1,'3D food printing is a new technology that has the potential of giving the appropriate individuals the correct nourishment. The primary technology behind 3D printing is additive manufacturing, in which layers of food are produced and then topped one above the other. To address India\'s malnutrition, millets are combined with 3D printing technology as they are nutri-cereals supplementing calcium, protein, niacin, and many other vital nutrients. This study analyses the printability of the millet-based dough by investigating their rheological characteristics. The interaction of dynamic viscoelastic characteristics with angular frequency, including storage modulus (G\') and loss modulus (G\") was measured. Strain rate of 0.05%, was chosen to set up linear viscoelastic range to perform the oscillation test. Regardless of the addition of xanthan gum, the values of G\' and G\" increased with increase in angular frequency for all millet-based dough. It demonstrates that the dough made of millet behaves as an elastically active gel-like structure that helps printed products to maintain their shape.','3D Food Printing, millet, shear thinning, additive manufacturing technology, hydrocolloids, dynamic viscoelastic properties, rheology','In this research, the rheological properties of millet-based dough were studied. Small amounts of hydrocolloids can make a good difference in rheological behaviour. For a material to be printed effectively, it is evident from the research that the material should possess shear thinning behaviour. The viscoelastic behaviour of the dough is indicated by the high values of G’ and G’’. High values are also a result of the water-binding effect of xanthan gum. In conclusion, the rheological properties of any material to be printed are necessary to assess the mechanical stability and printability of that printed product.','-','J. Sanuujabertini, M. Balakrishnan, S. Parveen, R. Ravikumar and A.P. Mohan Kumar (2023). Studies on Rheological Properties of 3D Printable Millet Based Dough. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 15(7): 10-14.'),(6938,'159','New Crucial Areas for Frontier Research in Entomology','Ram Kishor Meena, T. Revanth SRI, Suman Choudhary, Akhter Hussain, S. L. Sharma, Jugal Kishor Bana, Bhawani Singh Meena, Sushila Choudhary, Nisha Choudhary and Ravindra Kumar Meena ','New-Crucial-Areas-for-Frontier-Research-in-Entomology-Ram-Kishor-Meena-100.pdf','',1,'Entomology is the study of all aspects of insects and allied species, including their developmental morphology, biology, ecology, biochemistry, physiology, behaviour, systematics, and molecular genetics. The application of artificial intelligence is being used in insect pest detection and monitoring in crops/ fruit plants, pest management in warehouses/ grain reserves. This review brings to light the alarming status of DNA barcoding, where India had correctly documented DNA barcodes just 3.97% of the known insect species. Unmanned vehicle/ Drone technology is being utilised for detecting, identifying and managing pests more quickly and effectively to assist farmers and agricultural experts. The CRISPR-Cas system has become a potent tool in genetic engineering because of its ease of use and extraordinary accuracy with low cost. Its use enables the development of genetically modified creatures across a wide range of plants, animals and microbes.','CRISPR-Cas system, DNA barcoding, entomology, genetic engineering, RNA interference','This study offers viewpoints on the potential for increasing insect-based detection and control. Encouraging new crucial areas for research could help us to manage harmful pests and also make use of beneficial insects. Not only in the area of agriculture, but entomology can also be used in various other areas like forensic, veterinary, medical etc. Insects are not always pests but can also be used for food, providing livelihood. Encouraging insect-based companies would aid in efforts to conserve biodiversity and promote human well-being.','-','Ram Kishor Meena, T. Revanth SRI, Suman Choudhary, Akhter Hussain, S. L. Sharma, Jugal Kishor Bana, Bhawani Singh Meena, Sushila Choudhary, Nisha Choudhary and Ravindra Kumar Meena (2023). New Crucial Areas for Frontier Research in Entomology. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 15(6): 657-662.'),(6939,'159','Occurrence of Methicillin resistant Staphylococcus aureus (MRSA) in Dairy Farms of Wayanad District of Kerala','Femi Francis, Prejit, Ramziya P.K., Anjusha K.M., Asha K., Marita Dias and Amal Raj K.V. ','Occurrence-of-Methicillin-resistant-Staphylococcus-aureus-(MRSA)-in-Dairy-Farms-of-Wayanad-District-of-Kerala-Femi-Francis-101.pdf','',1,'Staphylococcus aureus is an ubiquitous bacterial pathogen causing food borne diseases. Indiscriminate use of antibiotics has led to the emergence of antimicrobial resistant pathogens in the environment. One among these antimicrobial resistant pathogens being the methicillin resistant S. aureus (MRSA), posing serious threat to the lives of people and animals. Therefore, an experimental study was conducted in randomly selected dairy farms of Wayanad district of Kerala, India from January 2023 to March 2023. The objectives of the study was to determine the occurrence of S. aureus and MRSA in raw milk of cow and its environment namely, udder washings, and hand washings. The study also attempted to evaluate the S. aureus isolates\' antibiotic susceptibility patterns. A total of 60 samples, including 20 each of milk, udder washings, and milkers\' hands, were collected and analysed. The isolates\' susceptibility to various types of antibiotics was evaluated using the disc diffusion technique. The data were analysed using descriptive statistics. The result indicated that 63.33% (38/60) of the samples were positive for S. aureus. The occurrence of S. aureus was 20%, 80%, and 90% in raw milk, udder washings, and hand washings respectively. Among the 38 S. aureus isolates obtained from various samples, 42.11% isolates were resistant to oxacillin followed by 7.89% isolates resistant to cefoxitin. The occurrence of MRSA from the recovered S. aureus isolates was 7.89% and these isolates were resistant to cefoxitin. The presence of MRSA indicates possible public health problems, necessitating training and surveillance programmes, as well as severe efforts to curtail indiscriminate antibiotic usage, in order to avoid the disastrous impacts of the Antimicrobial Resistance silent pandemic.','AMR, Milk, MRSA, Hand washings, S. aureus, Udder washings','The present study confirmed a high occurrence of S. aureus in the milker’s hand followed by udder washings and milk samples. The recovered S. aureus isolates had a high rate of antibiotic resistance, notably to oxacillin. The detection of MRSA in the current study highlights how crucial it is to stop the emergence of resistance genes in the environment. To minimise the growth and spread of drug-resistant bacteria, stringent adherence to antibiotic regime, hygienic practises of milking, along with strict monitoring in the distribution of antibiotics, should be mandatory. Promoting mass awareness campaigns and bolstering the public health education system can both serve as useful means of achieving the objective. In this case, AMR surveillance and monitoring initiatives must be implemented immediately.','-','Femi Francis, Prejit, Ramziya P.K., Anjusha K.M., Asha K., Marita Dias and Amal Raj K.V. (2023). Occurrence of Methicillin resistant Staphylococcus aureus (MRSA) in Dairy Farms of Wayanad District of Kerala. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 15(5): 663-667.'),(6940,'161','Bacterial Endophytic Approach in drought stress Alleviation and Plant Growth Promotion','Nakul Kale, Earanna N. and Neekshitha Shetty','Bacterial-Endophytic-Approach-in-drought-stress-Alleviation-and-Plant-Growth-Promotion-Nakul-Kale-3.pdf','',1,'Drought stresses have significant impact on plant growth, from seed germination to seed set in plant life cycle. This results in wide range of both biochemical and physiological changes in plant, ultimately leading to reduced economic output. The endophytic bacteria which survive within plant tissues are the most appropriate technologies that can influence positively on plant growth and yield under drought conditions. These bacterial endophytes in plant tissues are known to release various phytochemicals that assist plant to withstand in harsh environmental conditions, here in this context its drought stress. In the present study, five bacterial endophytes viz., P7L1, P2L2, P6R1, P3L2 and P7R1 were evaluated for the plant growth promoting and drought stress alleviating traits under invitro condition. Among plant growth promoting traits, all the bacterial endophytes were able to produced phytohormones IAA, GA, ABA and SA, while only one P7L1 bacterial endophyte showed positive results for phosphate solubilization, potash solubilization and siderophore production. Similarly, all the isolates were analyzed for production of drought alleviating compounds like accumulation of proline, production of antioxidants, phenols and flavonoids, both under drought stress (matric induced water stress using PEG 8000 molecule) and without stress condition. Among all the bacterial isolates under study P7L1 and P7R1 were observed to combat the drought stress significantly.','Bacterial endophytes, drought, phytohormones, antioxidant activity','Bacterial endophytes are widely known to impart abiotic stress tolerance in host plants. In this study, bacterial endophytes were able to produce growth hormones both under PEG induced stress and normal condition. Also, they were able to solubilize phosphate and produce siderophores. Further, they showed antioxidant activity and accumulated proline content in under drought stress. Overall, this study gives a comprehensive understanding of the mechanism involved in imparting drought tolerance in host plants by bacterial endophytes.','-','Nakul Kale, Earanna N. and Neekshitha Shetty (2023). Bacterial Endophytic Approach in drought stress Alleviation and Plant Growth Promotion. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 15(7): 15-20.'),(6941,'161','Evaluation of Various Cropping Systems on Soil Health in Southern Telangana Zone','Rayapati Karthik, M. Venkata Ramana, Ch. Pragathi Kumari, T. Ram Prakash, D. Saida Naik and M. Yakadri ','Evaluation-of-Various-Cropping-Systems-on-Soil-Health-in-Southern-Telangana-Zone-Rayapati-Karthik-4.pdf','',1,'Monocropping of cereals has been exploitative and not economical to the farmers. There is a need to design an agricultural production system that ensures food and nutritional security and enhances the soil health at the same time. There is need to maintain sustainability which can be possible with the help of practicing soil friendly cropping systems. This study was conducted to identify the efficient cropping systems in terms of soil health. To find out the impact of various cropping systems on soil health, an experiment was conducted at IFS Unit, College farm, College of Agriculture, PJTSAU, Rajendranagar during 2021-22 and 2022-23. Cultivation of Pigeonpea + Sweetcorn - Bajra and Pigeonpea + Maize - Sunhemp cropping systems is beneficial as they have positive impact on soil properties and it is observed that inclusion of legumes plays a vital role on soil health. ','Legumes, Monocropping, Soil properties, Soil health, Telangana','Conducting research on suitable cropping systems helps to find out their impact on soil properties and contribution to soil sustainability over the years. It is very important to grow profitable crops but not at the cost of soil health. Inclusion of soil friendly crops in cropping systems is the need of the hour. There is no significant change in pH and EC as it might take more years and having crops which produce more biomass have a positive impact on organic carbon. Change in available nitrogen was high in Pigeonpea + Sweetcorn - Bajra and Pigeonpea + Maize - Sunhemp cropping systems over the two years because of having legume whereas there was not much change in available phosphorous. However, increase in available potassium is more in forage crops compared to other cropping systems which might be due to more potassium application in these cropping systems.','-','Rayapati Karthik, M. Venkata Ramana, Ch. Pragathi Kumari, T. Ram Prakash, D. Saida Naik and M. Yakadri (2023). Evaluation of various Cropping Systems on Soil Health in Southern Telangana Zone. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 15(7): 21-26.'),(6942,'159','Toxicity Assessment of Fungal Chitin obtained from Aspergillus niger and Evaluation of its Antioxidant Potential in BALB/c Mice','Harpreet Kaur and Deepak K. Rahi','Toxicity-Assessment-of-Fungal-Chitin-obtained-from-Aspergillus-niger-and-Evaluation-of-its-Antioxidant-Potential-in-BALBc-Mice-Harpreet-Kaur-102.pdf','',1,'N-acetyl glucosamine, a component of the fungal cell wall and a biopolymer with several industrial uses, including the food industry, makes up chitin. Therefore, in the present study, the fungal chitin obtained from Aspergillus niger intended to be used in the food industry was assessed for its toxicity and evaluated for antioxidant potential in a BALB/c mouse model. For this, the test chitin was administered orally to six groups of mice, with five mice in each group. Animals were divided into several groups and given variable amounts of chitin, with one group being designated as the \"control\". The study was conducted for 14 days, and various affecting parameters, including clinical, behavioral, and physical patterns, mood, sleep, eating pattern, weight, fur, and skin, were observed along with histopathology studies. The results obtained revealed no adverse effect of chitin on mice. Alanine aminotransferase (ALT) and aspartate transaminase (AST) examinations also revealed that chitin is within safe limits to be used in various food applications. The maximum dose of chitin administered was 1000mg/kg body weight of mice, while the minimum dose was 100mg /kg body weight of mice. According to histopathology findings, even the maximum dose of chitin (1000 mg/kg body weight) was safe and had no adverse effects on the gut, liver, or kidney. An in vivo study of the blood sample revealed that the test chitin had good antioxidant properties concerning standard ascorbic acid. No challenges were faced while conducting the study. Chitin serves as an good antioxidant agent. This can be used to replace the synthetic antioxidants as it shows also similar effect.','Aspergillus niger, chitin, antioxidant, in vivo, toxicity','In conclusion, this study was conducted to investigate the toxicity effect of chitin in BALB/c mice and its antioxidant activity in vivo. The results showed that oral administration of chitin has no toxic effect on the behavior or physiology of mice. In addition to it, chitin has good antioxidant activity as it increases the levels of superoxide dismutase (SOD), catalase (CAT), and reduced glutathione (GSH) significantly. Histopathology examination revealed that chitin has no signs of necropsy, abrasions, or any toxic effects. The AST and ALT levels revealed good liver functioning with chitin.','-','Harpreet Kaur and Deepak K. Rahi (2023). Toxicity Assessment of Fungal Chitin obtained from Aspergillus niger and Evaluation of its Antioxidant Potential in BALB/c Mice. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 15(6): 668-673.'),(6943,'157','Genetic Variability, Heritability and Genetic Advance of Aromatic Rice for Yield and its Components','Nayanmoni Borah, Partha Pratim Behera, Vedant Vikrom Borah and Ramendra Nath Sarma','Genetic-Variability,-Heritability-and-Genetic-Advance-of-Aromatic-Rice-for-Yield-and-its-Components-Nayanmoni-Borah-228.pdf','',1,'The improvement of yield in aromatic rice is crucial not only to meet the growing demand for its flavorful nature but also to ensure an adequate supply for a population that appreciates its unique qualities. Enhancing both the yield and quality of aromatic rice will not only contribute to food security but also cater to the preferences of consumers seeking a delightful culinary experience. In this regard present investigation consists of 94 aromatic rice genotypes and the experiment was conducted during Sali2019 in Randomized Block Design with three replications. The data were recorded for 17 morphological characters to study genetic variability, heritability, genetic advance and varieties performance. On the basis of mean performance, high grain yield per plant were exhibited by the varieties IRRI 52 followed by Boga Maniki Modhuri Joha, Balum, Chakhow Poreton and Kon Joha-1, accordingly and the genotype Chakhow Poreton was resulted with high performance of grain yield per plant with early flowering followed by Chakhow Sempak, Krishna Joha, Kon Joha-2 and Bor Joha, correspondingly. The highest GCV and PCV were observed for no. of unfilled grain, grain yield per plant, and leaf aroma, indicating these characters could be used for crop improvement. High heritability and genetic advance were also observed for these traits, suggesting that additive gene effects are dominant and effective selection is possible. Our study would make a remarkable contribution towards the understanding of the extent of genetic diversity in indigenous aromatic rice along, along with identification of suitable genotypes to use in future breeding programs.','Aromatic rice, Genetic variability, Heritability, Genetic advance, GCV and PCV','The study found that the traits most important for improving rice yield, namely number of filled grains, number of unfilled grains, total spikelet, grain length, grain breadth, LB ratio, grain length without husk, grain breadth without husk, dehusked LB ratio, leaf aroma, thousand grain weight, and grain yield per plant, all have high heritability and genetic advance. This means that these traits are largely determined by the additive effects of genes, and can therefore be improved through hybridization and selection. The high heritability and genetic advance for these traits is good news for rice breeders, as it means that they can make significant progress in improving rice yield through selective breeding. This is important as rice is a staple food for billions of people around the world, and increasing rice yield is essential to ensuring food security. The study also found that the traits leaf aroma and thousand grain weights had the highest heritability and genetic advance. ','-','Nayanmoni Borah, Partha Pratim Behera, Vedant Vikrom Borah and Ramendra Nath Sarma (2023). Genetic Variability, Heritability and Genetic Advance of Aromatic Rice for Yield and its Components. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 15(5): 1516-1522.'),(6944,'157','Alkaline Protease Production by Bacillus sp. using Fortified Crude Dairy Effluent','Dubey S.K. and Parihar R.','Alkaline-Protease-Production-by-Bacillus-sp.-using-Fortified-Crude-Dairy-Effluent-Rashmi-Parihar-229.pdf','',1,'Proteases are widely used in detergent manufacturing, leather processing units, food processing sectors, meat tenderization, and proteinaceous waste treatment. Several attempts have been made consistently to utilize low-cost or waste as a substrate for microbial protease production. Obediently, the purpose of the present research work was focused on the characterization of protease production efficacy of Bacillus strains isolated from dairy and bakery waste. A total of 23 bacterial strains were isolated from the waste of local dairy and bakery shops of Bilaspur city situated at 22.09°N 82.15°E geographical location. Among them, the Bacillus subtilis PPB3 exhibited maximum protease activity of 42.47 ±0.42 U mL-1. Later, Bacillus subtilis PPB3 was optimized in fortified dairy effluent and achieved maximum protease activity of 54.41 ±0.37 U mL-1 (relative protease activity - 128.11 ±0.39 %) at pH-8.0, temperature 40°C, and 120 rpm after 72 h of the incubation period. The Vmax and Km of PPB-3 (Bacillus subtilis-3) derived protease were calculated 66.66 U mg-1 protein and 1.73 mg casein mL-1 respectively. The optimum utilization of dairy waste effluent (DWE) offers a cost-effective substrate for value-added product synthesis like protease and at the same time could be able to reduce the Biological Oxygen Demand (BOD) and Chemical Oxygen Demand (COD) of DWE before discharging it to either for waste effluent treatment unit or other in-house utilities. However, a specialized automatic system needs to be incorporated for the synthesis of proteases from waste dairy effluent using bacteria. ','Proteases, Bacillus subtilis, protease activity, enzyme kinetics, dairy waste effluent','Lots of emphasis have been made to minimize the cost of protease production in earlier literature. Hence, the present work was focused on protease production by fortified dairy effluent. The PPB-3 (Bacillus subtilis-3) was found to be significant for protease production and further, its protease kinetics optimized in fortified dairy effluent. The production of protease from dairy effluent reflects the significant utilization of dairy waste effluent. Similar industrial wastes i.e., bakery, food processing unit, and so forth, were further evaluated for a variety of enzyme production to meet the demand of the global enzyme market in the near future. ','-','Dubey S.K. and Parihar R. (2023). Alkaline Protease Production by Bacillus Sp. using Fortified Crude Dairy Effluent. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 15(5): 1523-1529.'),(6945,'159','Stability Analysis of Within Host Dengue Model Incorporating the Impact of Cell-Mediated and Innate Immune Reactions','Kunwer Singh Mathur and Bhagwan Kumar','Stability-Analysis-of-Within-Host-Dengue-Model-Incorporating-the-Impact-of-Cell-Mediated-and-Innate-Immune-Reactions-Bhagwan-Kumar-103.pdf','',1,'Dengue a globally prevalent mosquito-borne disease affects millions each year. Developing a model to understand its dynamics within hosts is crucial for effective prevention and control. Mathematical models considering vector-host interactions, innate immunity, and IFN levels shed light on the interplay between host defences and viral spread. This paper deals with the analysis of a within-host dengue infection model with innate and adaptive immunity. In this context, a nonlinear mathematical model is developed and analyzed to reveal the growth of infection within host along with innate and adaptive immunity. The model has two equilibria: infection-free and endemic equilibrium. The infection-free equilibrium is locally and globally stable for R0 < 1, while numerically it is found that endemic equilibrium is locally and globally asymptotically stable for R0 > 1. Further, all the analytical results are verified through numerical simulations using MATLAB.','Dengue infection, Antibodies, Basic reproduction number, Innate immunity, T immune cells','In this paper, a non-linear dynamical model is proposed to analyze the dynamics of dengue infection within a host and to understand the effect of innate immune response in the form of type I interferon as well as adaptive immune response in the form of B cells, T helper cells, antibodies. We have studied the model analytically and numerically to capture the qualitative behaviour of virus dynamics within the host. The disease-free and endemic equilibria are obtained and studied, which depends upon a basic reproduction number 〖(R〗_0). The disease-free equilibrium point is locally and globally asymptotically stable when basic reproduction number R_0<1 and unstable when R_0>1. Based on numerical simulation, the endemic equilibrium point appears to be locally and globally stable. All analytical results were also verified through numerical simulations.\r\nFurther, since the infected cells activate the immune system and its rate is inversely proportional to the basic reproduction number, the higher rate is more beneficial in killing the virus. Similarly, T cell activates the B cells and B cells, which further differentiates into plasma cells through antibodies. These plasma cells can kill the virus. Hence, the rate f to produce antibodies here is also inversely proportional to R_0, which depicts an adverse effect on the virus. Finally, it is concluded that the basic reproduction number is crucial for controlling disease outbreaks in the study of disease dynamics.\r\n','-','Kunwer Singh Mathur and Bhagwan Kumar (2023). Stability Analysis of Within Host Dengue Model Incorporating the Impact of Cell-Mediated and Innate Immune Reactions. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 15(6): 674-678.'),(6946,'161','Evaluation of Weed Management Approaches on Weed Dynamics, Yield and Economics of Puddled Rice under different Plant Techniques','Vikram Sai M., Murugan G. and Sai Kumar M.','Evaluation-of-Weed-Management-Approaches-on-Weed-Dynamics,-Yield-and-Economics-of-Puddled-Rice-under-different-Plant-Techniques-Vikram-Sai-M-5.pdf','',1,'The development of high-yield crop varieties has been hindered in recent years due to poor weed management, resulting in decreased potential. Maximum crop yields cannot be achieved without effective weed management, particularly in rice. This study delves into various weed management practices and planting techniques tailored for rice cultivation. A field experiment was conducted from January to May 2022 (Navarai) to find out the effective weed management practices in puddled rice. The experiment was carried out in a split-plot design, which included two planting techniques, viz., drum-seeded rice and system of rice intensification (SRI) in the main plot, as well as eight weed management practices, viz., hand weeding, cono weeding, pretilachlor, bispyribac sodium and fenoxaprop – p – ethyl as pre and post-emergence application in subplot. The results of the experiment demonstrated that among the planting techniques and weed management practices tested, the system of rice intensification and sequential application of pretilachlor @ 0.5 kg a.i ha-1 fb bispyribac sodium @ 20 g a.i ha-1 has revealed the lowest weed density and highest weed control efficiency, yield and gross and net income. However, drum-seeded rice resulted in a higher return-1 rupee invested due to the lower cost of cultivation. ','drum seeded rice, bisyribac sodium, puddled rice, pretilachlor, SRI','The results of the field experimentation concluded that the SRI strategy of planting, along with the application of PE pretilachlor @ 0.5 kg ha-1 fb PoE bispyribac sodium @ 20 g ha-1 reduced the infestation of dominant weed species and these practises could be suggested as an efficient, economically viable, ecologically desirable and practically feasible management system for controlling weed species in the puddled rice wetland ecosystem.','-','Vikram Sai M., Murugan G. and Sai Kumar M. (2023). Evaluation of Weed Management Approaches on Weed Dynamics, Yield and Economics of Puddled Rice under different Plant Techniques. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 15(7): 27-31.'),(6947,'157','Floral Biology of Myristica fragrans Houtt','Seema V. and Manimekalai V. ','Floral-Biology-of-Myristica-fragrans-Houtt-Seema-V-230.pdf','',1,'Myristica fragrans Houtt is an evergreen aromatic tree belongs to the family Myristicaceae. It is a dioecious tree. It is growing up to 5 to 13 meter high. Leaves are dark green and alternate. Flowers are pale yellow, fleshy and bell shaped. Male flowers are arranged in groups of one to ten. Female flowers are arranged in smaller groups of one to three. Fruits are oval or pyriform and yellow. Nutmeg is the seed kernel inside the fruit and mace is the red coloured covering of the kernel. The flowers are collected and morphological characters were analysed under a dissection microscope. At the time of flowering and fruiting period the tree was observed. Macrophotographs were taken by using camera Nikon cool pix P600. Nikon binocular Eclipse- Niu model microscope with light and fluorescent option system was used to take micro photographs. The present study revealed that biology of male and female flowers of Myristica fragrans. The study about the floral biology is very useful to improve the pollination and crop improvement. It also helps to understand the fruit setting of the plant.','Myristica fragrans, dioecious, nutmeg, mace, kernel','Myristica fragrans is a medium sized tree. The flowers of the tree produce a strong and pleasant odor and nectar. The fruits of the nutmeg contain odoriferous secondary metabolites. Both the nutmeg and mace contain volatile oils. This oil constitutes have a variety of pharmacological effects (Parimala and Amarjyothi 2013). Nutmeg shows anticonvulsant, anti cancer, anti inflammatory and analgesic activities. It is also used in the treatment of diarrhea, dysentery, vomiting and abdominal distension (Ibrahim et al., 2019). The flowers of Myristica fragrans are small and unisexual. With reference to the floral studies the male flower has androecium with twenty stamens and the female flower has gynoecium with unicarpellate ovary.','-','Seema V. and Manimekalai V. (2023). Floral Biology of Myristica fragrans Houtt. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 15(5): 1530-1534.'),(6948,'157','Isolation and Identification of Rhizospheric and Endophytic Fungi Associated with Habenaria brachyphylla (Lindl.) Aitch.: An Endemic and Rare Orchid of the Western Ghats of Maharashtra, India','Aboli Avhad, Neeta Patil and Rajendra Zunjarrao','Isolation-and-Identification-of-Rhizospheric-and-Endophytic-Fungi-Associated-with-Habenaria-brachyphylla-(Lindl.)-Aitch.-An-Endemic-and-Rare-Orchid-of-the-Western-Ghats-of-Maharashtra,-In-Aboli-Avhad-231.pdf','',1,'Orchidaceae is one of the largest families among the flowering plants extensively distributed in the Eastern Himalaya, Eastern part of Western Himalaya, and Western Ghats. A Terrestrial orchid is an enormous group among the orchidaceous family which needs to be conserved as they are on the verge of being threatened. The fungal partner associated with the roots of terrestrial orchids plays an important role in the germination of seeds and in providing nutrients to orchids. Therefore, this study aims to isolate and identify the fungi associated with Habenaria brachyphylla (Lindl.) Aitch from the Western Ghats of Maharashtra can lead to the development of efficient conservation strategies for this endemic and rare orchid.\r\nIn our present study, the fungal isolates of endophytic and rhizospheric regions were isolated and identified. All the isolates found belonged to the phylum Ascomycota. Amongst which Aspergillus sydowii was found in the root peloton however other species such as Acremonium spp., Clonostachys spp., Fusarium spp., Penicillium spp., Talaromyces spp., showed the association with the rhizospheric region. \r\n','Terrestrial orchid, Habenaria, Soil fungi, Peloton, Molecular identification','In this study, the isolation and molecular identification of rhizospheric and endophytic fungal isolates of Habenaria brachyphylla (Lindl.) Aitch. from the Western Ghats of Maharashtra, India was studied. The results showed that the rhizospheric and endophytic fungi of H. brachyphylla were non-mycorrhizal and all belonged to the phylum Ascomycota.','-','Aboli Avhad, Neeta Patil and Rajendra Zunjarrao (2023). Isolation and Identification of Rhizospheric and Endophytic Fungi associated with Habenaria brachyphylla (Lindl.) Aitch.: An Endemic and Rare Orchid of the Western Ghats of Maharashtra, India. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 15(5): 1535-1542.'),(6949,'157','Development and Validation of High Performance Planar Chromatography for Estimation of Gentamicin by Fluorophore Generation','Arka Bhattacharjee, Arpan Chakraborty, Baishakhi Mondal, Nitai Chand Chaulya, Goutam Mukhopadhyay and Alpana Majumder ','Development-and-Validation-of-High-Performance-Planar-Chromatography-for-Estimation-of-Gentamicin-by-Fluorophore-Generation-Arka-Bhattacharjee-232.pdf','',1,'This study presents the development and validation of an HPTLC method for estimating Gentamicin in bulk powder, pharmaceutical dosage forms, and blood plasma samples. The chromatography separation was conducted on pre-coated aluminum plates using silica gel 60 F254 as the stationary phase and a mobile phase comprising chloroform, methanol, and 25% ammonia solution. The developed method was able to successfully separate and detect the various components of Gentamicin, despite the challenges of optimizing the separation and detection parameters. The method produced compact and well-resolved bands, which is important for accurate analysis. By demonstrating excellent linearity (r2 = 0.9996) in the calibration plots, the method enables the quantification of Gentamicin within the concentration range of 60-200 ng/band at 436 nm. Furthermore, the method\'s precision, accuracy, robustness, specificity, limit of detection, and limit of quantification were validated according to the International Conference on Harmonization (ICH) guidelines. The results of the study confirm that the developed method is suitable for routine quality control testing of Gentamicin in bulk drug, marketed formulations, and plasma samples. This means that the method can be used to reliably ensure the quality of Gentamicin and guide its therapeutic use.','Gentamicin, Planar-chromatography, Derivatization, HPTLC, Flurophore, Optimization','The developed HPTLC technique enables the quantitative analysis of GMS in bulk drug, marketed formulation, and plasma samples. With RSD values of 2%, the method demonstrates satisfactory accuracy. The recovery percentages for GMS (100.925–101.795%) further confirm the efficiency and reliability of the method. In addition, the fingerprint profiling of chromatograms obtained from GMS can be used for comparing and evaluating commercial samples. Compared to HPLC, HPTLC offers advantages such as shorter processing times, lower sample requirements, optimized extractions using cost-effective chemicals, and smaller mobile phase volumes. This quick, easy, and sensitive HPTLC procedure serves as a valuable quality control tool for assessing the aerial GMS in different test samples.','-','Arka Bhattacharjee, Arpan Chakraborty, Baishakhi Mondal, Nitai Chand Chaulya, Goutam Mukhopadhyay and Alpana Majumder (2023). Development and Validation of High Performance Planar Chromatography for Estimation of Gentamicin by Fluorophore Generation. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 15(5): 1543-1549.'),(6950,'161','Effect of PGRs on Yield, Quality Parameters and Economics of Linseed (Linum usitatissimum L.) Cultivation under Rainfed Conditions of Nagaland','Tana Yagum, L. Tongpang Longkumer, Noyingthung Kikon, Imlilemla Amlari and Lanunola Tzudir ','Effect-of-PGRs-on-Yield,-Quality-Parameters-and-Economics-of-Linseed-(Linum-usitatissimum-L.)-Cultivation-under-Rainfed-Conditions-of-Nagaland-Noyingthung-Kikon-7.pdf','',4,'The use of PGRs (plant growth regulators) has opened new opportunities for enhancing the productivity of several crops under stress conditions and is becoming an integral component for production technology of several agricultural crops. In India a number of research works on PGRs has been conducted on major oilseed crops viz., Soybean, Indian mustard and Groundnut however, very little is known about the role of PGRs in improving yield and yield components of minor oilseed crops like linseed which needs to be addressed given the practical applicability of such technology for linseed cultivation under its current cultivation scenario and increasing global demand. A field experiment was conducted at the experimental farm of School of Agricultural Sciences, Nagaland University, Medziphema campus during the rabi season of 2018-2019. The experiment was laid out in a RBD with three replications with seven PGR treatments viz., IAA @ 1 ppm, IAA @ 2 ppm, GA3 @ 200 ppm, GA3 @ 400 ppm, Salicyclic acid @ 75 ppm, 0.1 % Tebuconazole and IAA @ 1 ppm + GA3 @ 200 ppm along with control (water spray) to study their effect on yield, quality parameters and economics of linseed cultivation under rainfed conditions of Nagaland. Among the PGR treatments IAA @ 2 ppm recorded significantly higher number of capsules plant-1 (53.33) and seed weight plant-1 (3.84 g) as well as significantly highest seed yield of 1244.42 kg ha-1 whereas, the lowest seed yield of 1013.47 kg ha-1, excluding control, was recorded by 0.1 % Tebuconazole. Stover yield was also found to be significantly higher with application of IAA @ 2 ppm (2589.62 kg ha-1) followed by GA3 @ 200 ppm (2548.75 kg ha-1). Application of 0.1 % Tebuconazole was found to record significantly highest oil content of 32% followed by Salicylic Acid @ 75 ppm (30.7 %). The highest oil yield of 352.17 kg ha-1 was recorded by IAA @ 2 ppm followed by GA3 @ 200 ppm (348.04 kg ha-1) and IAA @ 1 ppm (343.94 kg ha-1). The highest cost of cultivation Rs. 29811 ha-1 was incurred with application of GA3 @ 400 ppm whereas, application of IAA @ 2 ppm was found to record the highest gross returns, net returns and BCR of Rs. 49773 ha-1, Rs. 30314 ha-1 and 2.6 respectively followed by application of IAA @ 1 ppm with net returns of Rs. 25970 ha-1 and BCR of 2.3.','The use of PGRs (plant growth regulators) has opened new opportunities for enhancing the productivity of several crops under stress conditions and is becoming an integral component for production technology of several agricultural crops. In India a number of research works on PGRs has been conducted on major oilseed crops viz., Soybean, Indian mustard and Groundnut however, very little is known about the role of PGRs in improving yield and yield components of minor oilseed crops like linseed which needs to be addressed given the practical applicability of such technology for linseed cultivation under its current cultivation scenario and increasing global demand. A field experiment was conducted at the experimental farm of School of Agricultural Sciences, Nagaland University, Medziphema campus during the rabi season of 2018-2019. The experiment was laid out in a RBD with three replications with seven PGR treatments viz., IAA @ 1 ppm, IAA @ 2 ppm, GA3 @ 200 ppm, GA3 @ 400 ppm, Salicyclic acid @ 75 ppm, 0.1 % Tebuconazole and IAA @ 1 ppm + GA3 @ 200 ppm along with control (water spray) to study their effect on yield, quality parameters and economics of linseed cultivation under rainfed conditions of Nagaland. Among the PGR treatments IAA @ 2 ppm recorded significantly higher number of capsules plant-1 (53.33) and seed weight plant-1 (3.84 g) as well as significantly highest seed yield of 1244.42 kg ha-1 whereas, the lowest seed yield of 1013.47 kg ha-1, excluding control, was recorded by 0.1 % Tebuconazole. Stover yield was also found to be significantly higher with application of IAA @ 2 ppm (2589.62 kg ha-1) followed by GA3 @ 200 ppm (2548.75 kg ha-1). Application of 0.1 % Tebuconazole was found to record significantly highest oil content of 32% followed by Salicylic Acid @ 75 ppm (30.7 %). The highest oil yield of 352.17 kg ha-1 was recorded by IAA @ 2 ppm followed by GA3 @ 200 ppm (348.04 kg ha-1) and IAA @ 1 ppm (343.94 kg ha-1). The highest cost of cultivation Rs. 29811 ha-1 was incurred with application of GA3 @ 400 ppm whereas, application of IAA @ 2 ppm was found to record the highest gross returns, net returns and BCR of Rs. 49773 ha-1, Rs. 30314 ha-1 and 2.6 respectively followed by application of IAA @ 1 ppm with net returns of Rs. 25970 ha-1 and BCR of 2.3.','The present investigation, in line with research work conducted on other oilseed crops, clearly shows that the use of PGRs can have a significant effect on yield attributes, seed and stover yield, oil % and oil yield of linseed under rainfed conditions and can be adopted as a viable low cost technology specially under rainfed conditions. From the findings of the present investigation it can be concluded that application of IAA @ 1ppm and 2 ppm and GA3 at lower dose of 200 ppm were found to enhance both yield attributes and seed, stover and oil yield of linseed whereas, application of 0.1 % Tebuconazole and Salicylic Acid @ 75 ppm was found to enhance the seed oil content %.However, keeping in view economic feasibility of treatments, it is recommended to use IAA @ 2 ppm or 1 ppm for obtaining maximum yield performance as well as BCR from linseed cultivation under rainfed conditions. ','-','Tana Yagum, L. Tongpang Longkumer, Noyingthung Kikon, Imlilemla Amlari and Lanunola Tzudir (2023). Effect of PGRs on Yield, quality Parameters and Economics of Linseed (Linum usitatissimum L.) Cultivation under Rainfed Conditions of Nagaland. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 15(7): 38-44.'),(6951,'161','Enhancing Lentil Productivity in the North-West Alluvial Plain Zone through Cluster Front Line Demonstration (CFLD)','Kamlesh Kumar Singh, Tarun Kumar, S.K. Gupta, S.S. Solankey, S.K. Singh, S.S. Prasad and Sunita Kumari ','Enhancing-Lentil-Productivity-in-the-North-West-Alluvial-Plain-Zone-through-Cluster-Front-Line-Demonstration-(CFLD)-Kamlesh-Kumar-Singh-6.pdf','',1,'Lentil is predominantly a rainfed Rabi crop that grows in a constrained environment. Enhancing lentil productivity through the implementation of suitable location specific technologies with timely and careful management. It is the second most important winter legume crop in India. It can be easily grown under residual soil moisture conditions without further irrigation in large fallow areas in India just after the Kharif rice harvest (previous crop). But lentil production is low in the North-West Alluvial Plain Zone (NWAPZ) because of the availability of quality seed and lack of knowledge of advanced technology to produce crops. The results clearly revealed that the average yield of lentil under cluster front line demonstrations was registered of 1424 kg ha-1 as compared to 1000 kg ha-1 recorded in farmers’ practice; average yield increase of 37.28 percent over the farmers’ practices. Average net returns of Rs. 33,772.00 ha-1 relative to farmers\' practices (Rs.19, 037.00 ha-1) were obtained, and average BCR of 2.35 and 1.84 have been registered in demonstrated plots and farmer’s practices, respectively. It was found that the mean technological gap, extension gap, and technological index were 196 kg ha-1, 425 kg ha-1 and 12%, respectively.','BCR, Demonstration, Extension, Farmers, Lentil, Productivity, Yield','The cluster front-line demonstration on lentil revealed a 37.28 percent increase in yield over farmers’ practices. Hence, it is not the cost that deters farmers from adopting the most recent technology; ignorance is the main reason. It is moderately appropriate to describe a yield gap and an extension gap. The extension gap also influenced the deviation in crop yield due to the lack of knowledge among farmers, which was found to be 425 kg ha1. The average BCR (2.33) is sufficiently high to encourage farmers to adopt this advanced technology. The CFLD programme was effective in motivating farmers to adopt improved lentil cultivation practices, leading to improved relationships between farming and scientific communities.','-','Kamlesh Kumar Singh, Tarun Kumar, S.K. Gupta, S.S. Solankey, S.K. Singh, S.S. Prasad and Sunita Kumari (2023). Enhancing Lentil Productivity in the North-West Alluvial Plain Zone through Cluster Front Line Demonstration (CFLD). Biological Forum – An International Journal, 15(7): 32-37.'),(6952,'161','Effect of PGRs on Yield, Quality Parameters and Economics of Linseed (Linum usitatissimum L.) Cultivation under Rainfed Conditions of Nagaland','Tana Yagum, L. Tongpang Longkumer, Noyingthung Kikon, Imlilemla Amlari and Lanunola Tzudir ','Effect-of-PGRs-on-Yield,-Quality-Parameters-and-Economics-of-Linseed-(Linum-usitatissimum-L.)-Cultivation-under-Rainfed-Conditions-of-Nagaland-Noyingthung-Kikon-7.pdf','',1,'The use of PGRs (plant growth regulators) has opened new opportunities for enhancing the productivity of several crops under stress conditions and is becoming an integral component for production technology of several agricultural crops. In India a number of research works on PGRs has been conducted on major oilseed crops viz., Soybean, Indian mustard and Groundnut however, very little is known about the role of PGRs in improving yield and yield components of minor oilseed crops like linseed which needs to be addressed given the practical applicability of such technology for linseed cultivation under its current cultivation scenario and increasing global demand. A field experiment was conducted at the experimental farm of School of Agricultural Sciences, Nagaland University, Medziphema campus during the rabi season of 2018-2019. The experiment was laid out in a RBD with three replications with seven PGR treatments viz., IAA @ 1 ppm, IAA @ 2 ppm, GA3 @ 200 ppm, GA3 @ 400 ppm, Salicyclic acid @ 75 ppm, 0.1 % Tebuconazole and IAA @ 1 ppm + GA3 @ 200 ppm along with control (water spray) to study their effect on yield, quality parameters and economics of linseed cultivation under rainfed conditions of Nagaland. Among the PGR treatments IAA @ 2 ppm recorded significantly higher number of capsules plant-1 (53.33) and seed weight plant-1 (3.84 g) as well as significantly highest seed yield of 1244.42 kg ha-1 whereas, the lowest seed yield of 1013.47 kg ha-1, excluding control, was recorded by 0.1 % Tebuconazole. Stover yield was also found to be significantly higher with application of IAA @ 2 ppm (2589.62 kg ha-1) followed by GA3 @ 200 ppm (2548.75 kg ha-1). Application of 0.1 % Tebuconazole was found to record significantly highest oil content of 32% followed by Salicylic Acid @ 75 ppm (30.7 %). The highest oil yield of 352.17 kg ha-1 was recorded by IAA @ 2 ppm followed by GA3 @ 200 ppm (348.04 kg ha-1) and IAA @ 1 ppm (343.94 kg ha-1). The highest cost of cultivation Rs. 29811 ha-1 was incurred with application of GA3 @ 400 ppm whereas, application of IAA @ 2 ppm was found to record the highest gross returns, net returns and BCR of Rs. 49773 ha-1, Rs. 30314 ha-1 and 2.6 respectively followed by application of IAA @ 1 ppm with net returns of Rs. 25970 ha-1 and BCR of 2.3.','PGRs, linseed, rainfed, yield, quality parameters, cultivation economics','The present investigation, in line with research work conducted on other oilseed crops, clearly shows that the use of PGRs can have a significant effect on yield attributes, seed and stover yield, oil % and oil yield of linseed under rainfed conditions and can be adopted as a viable low cost technology specially under rainfed conditions. From the findings of the present investigation it can be concluded that application of IAA @ 1ppm and 2 ppm and GA3 at lower dose of 200 ppm were found to enhance both yield attributes and seed, stover and oil yield of linseed whereas, application of 0.1 % Tebuconazole and Salicylic Acid @ 75 ppm was found to enhance the seed oil content %.However, keeping in view economic feasibility of treatments, it is recommended to use IAA @ 2 ppm or 1 ppm for obtaining maximum yield performance as well as BCR from linseed cultivation under rainfed conditions. ','-','Tana Yagum, L. Tongpang Longkumer, Noyingthung Kikon, Imlilemla Amlari and Lanunola Tzudir (2023). Effect of PGRs on Yield, quality Parameters and Economics of Linseed (Linum usitatissimum L.) Cultivation under Rainfed Conditions of Nagaland. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 15(7): 38-44.'),(6953,'161','A Study on Variability in Seed Morphology in Shrunken-2 Parental Lines and Hybrids of Sweet Corn','Narender Pal, Lalit Kumar, Nitika Kalia and Monalisha Sahoo','A-Study-on-Variability-in-Seed-Morphology-in-Shrunken-2-Parental-Lines-and-Hybrids-of-Sweet-Corn-Narender-Pal-8.pdf','',1,'A study was conducted to see the variability in sweet corn seeds size and shape and its correlation with field emergence. Grain size and shape properties were used for morphological variability assessment in the parental lines and hybrids of sweet corn. Seed’s geometric features such as area, bounding box length and breadth, perimeter, axial length and width, median length and width, equivalent diameter, eccentricity and roundness were computed on the binary image with help of ‘Grain Size and Shape Analysis’ software. The results showed a considerable variability among genotypes for seed morphological characters. The study conducted a correlation heat-map analysis using various seed morphological characters and emergence percentage of seeds. The results revealed strong positive correlations among the seed morphological characters. The highest positive correlation was observed between the seed area and seed equivalent diameter (r = 0.99), as well as between the seed bounding box length and seed eccentricity (r = 0.99). The emergence percentage of sweet corn genotypes also exhibited correlations with the seed morphological characters. Among all the seed morphological characters, seed bounding box breadth showed the highest positive correlation (r = 0.57) with seedling emergence. The seed morphological parameters, found correlated with field emergence can be analysed and utilised to assess the performance behaviour of the sweet corn seeds.','Zea mays L. var saccharata, seed morphology, emergence percentage, ‘Grain Size & Shape Analysis’, correlation heat-map','The present study was conducted to see the variability in sweet corn seeds size and shape and its correlation with field emergence. Seed’s morphological characters such as area, bounding box length and breadth, perimeter, axial length and width, median length and width, equivalent diameter, eccentricity and roundness were having a considerable variability among genotypes. The Pearson correlation heat-map analysis done using various seed morphological characters and emergence percentage of seeds revealed a strong correlation among the seed morphological characters. The emergence percentage of sweet corn genotypes also exhibited correlations with the seed morphological characters. Thus, the seed morphological parameters, found correlated with field emergence can be analysed and utilised to assess the performance behaviour of the sweet corn seeds.','-','Narender Pal, Lalit Kumar, Nitika Kalia and Monalisha Sahoo (2023). A Study on Variability in Seed Morphology in Shrunken-2 Parental Lines and Hybrids of Sweet Corn. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 15(7): 45-50.'),(6954,'161','Increased Growth Respiration and Panicle Cooling Contributes for stable Grain Weight in Rice under High Night Temperature','Sharma N. and Anand A.','Increased-Growth-Respiration-and-Panicle-Cooling-Contributes-for-stable-Grain-Weight-in-Rice-under-High-Night-Temperature-Sharma-N-9.pdf','',1,'Night-time warming poses a serious threat to rice production in terms of yield loss, especially during the reproductive phase. The current study examined the effects of high night temperatures (4°C above control) from anthesis to physiological maturity on two rice cultivars, Vandana and Nagina 22, which differ in their sensitivity to night-time temperatures. For the first 20 DAA, the relative growth rate declined by 31% in Vandana while it increased significantly in Nagina 22 indicating amplified growth respiration component. HNT inflicted no effect on the grain weight in Nagina 22 due to minor spikelet fertility changes (5%), consistent higher grain weight under HNT throughout the grain filling period and greater panicle cooling throughout the night. Thus, our study revealed that tolerant cultivars offset HNT damage by increasing relative growth rate, cooling its panicle throughout night and maintaining higher grain filling rate.','Rice, High night temperature, Grain Weight, Panicle temperature, Thermal imaging','Nagina 22 showed increased relative growth rate during the first 20 DAA which is the active grain filling period. Grain weight is consistently higher during the entire grain filling period and cooler panicle throughout the night under HNT indicates Nagina 22 is able to offset adverse effect of HNT while Vandana is unable to tolerate HNT and grain weight is throughout lower during the entire grain filling period and decreased panicle temperature depression.','-','Sharma N. and Anand A. (2023). Increased Growth Respiration and Panicle Cooling Contributes for stable Grain Weight in Rice under High Night Temperature. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 15(7): 51-54.'),(6955,'159','Studies on Genetic variability and Character Association for Yield and its component Traits in Bread Wheat (Triticum aestivum L.)','J. Sreekanth, Ashutosh Kumar, Bal Krishna and Nilesh Talekar','Studies-on-Genetic-variability-and-Character-Association-for-Yield-and-its-component-Traits-in-Bread-Wheat-(Triticum-aestivum-L.)-Ashutosh-Kumar-104.pdf','',1,'Wheat is one of the most important staple crops worldwide, providing a significant portion of the global food supply. Understanding and managing wheat variability is crucial for improving varieties and promoting sustainable agriculture, ensuring a stable global food supply. To access variability and understand character association, the present experiment was conducted during the Rabi season 2022 at the research farm of Department of Genetics and Plant breeding, School of Agriculture, Lovely Professional University, Phagwara, Punjab. The study involved 90 wheat cultivars and 4 standard checks evaluated using Augmented design. Observations were recorded for ten yield and yield attributing traits. The analysis of variance revealed presence of sufficient genetic variability for most of the traits studied. Traits such as spike length, seeds per spike, and no of productive tillers per plant high heritability coupled with high genetic advance. Therefore, these traits can pe given priority in future wheat crop improvement programme. The phenotypic correlation analysis revealed that traits such as number of productive tillers per plant (0.6447**), spike length (0.2802**), and seeds per spike (0.4492**) exhibited highly significant positive correlations with grain yield per plant. Traits such as days to maturity, number of productive tillers per plant, spike length, seeds per spike, SPAD and harvest index showed positive and direct effect with grain yield per plant. Traits that exhibit a strong positive correlation and have a high positive direct effect can serve as effective selection criteria for the improvement of future wheat crops.','Wheat, Correlation, Path-coefficient, Heritability, Genetic advance','Therefore, based on the present findings, it can be concluded that genotypes utilized in this study exhibits substantial variability for a majority of the traits. Consequently, it is crucial to consider these traits during the selection process to identify superior individuals. These traits should be prioritized in the selection of plants for further improvement of yield and yield-related traits in bread wheat. Traits such as productive tillers per plant, spike length and seeds per spike and SPAD value showing significant and positive correlation with grain yield per plant. So, these traits can be used for effective selection in future crop improvement programme.','-','J. Sreekanth, Ashutosh Kumar, Bal Krishna and Nilesh Talekar (2023). Studies on Genetic variability and Character Association for Yield and its component Traits in Bread Wheat (Triticum aestivum L.). Biological Forum – An International Journal, 15(6): 679-684.'),(6956,'159','Application of Prosopis Wood Biochar on Soil and its Effect on Soil Nutrient and Carbon content','S. Shenbagavalli, J. Satya, T. Prabhu and V. Dhanushkodi','Application-of-Prosopis-Wood-Biochar-on-Soil-and-its-Effect-on-Soil-Nutrient-and-Carbon-content-MANOJ-KUMAR-105.pdf','',1,'In the current study, prosopis wood material was pyrolyzed at high temperatures to create biochar, which was then characterised. A laboratory closed incubation experiment was used to investigate how biochar affects soil properties. The prosopis biochar that was created had an exchangeable acidity of 49 mmol kg-1 and a pH that was neutral. A 16 cmol kg-1 cation exchange capacity was present. In comparison to nitrogen and phosphorus, it included a considerably higher amount of potassium (K). (940 g kg-1) of carbon was present, which was unusually high. The high porosity structure of biochar, which has the ability to improve water retention and increase soil surface area, is one of the main qualities that make it appealing as a soil amendment. While a soil\'s pH dropped as low as 7.92 after being added at various rates of biochar during incubation, the soil\'s cation exchange capacity (CEC) was shown to have dramatically risen as a result of the biochar addition. With an increase in the rate of biochar application, the soil organic carbon (SOC) significantly rose, and it continued to rise during the 90 days of incubation.','Biochar, CEC, Soil fertility, Enzyme activity, Microbes','The properties of biochar specified by chemical and physical processes reveal the infrastructure of biochar. Biochar defined by its useful application to soil, is expected to enhance an advantage from enduring chemical and physical properties. For large surface area and porosity of biochar, they can raise the capacity of water holding of soil and the absorption of nutrients with a view to decrease loss and an augment soil structure, so biochar might progress fertility of soil and raise crop yields in future if it is applied to soil with a suitable application rates.','-','S. Shenbagavalli, J. Satya, T. Prabhu and V. Dhanushkodi (2023). Application of Prosopis Wood Biochar on Soil and its Effect on Soil Nutrient and Carbon content. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 15(6): 685-689.'),(6957,'161','Assessment of Rural Awareness Work Experience Programme (RAWE) Programme Implemented through Krishi Vigyan Kendra (KVK)','Ningthoukhongjam Soranganba, L. Somendro, N. Johnson, Ph. Chandramani, R. Laha and V.K. Mishra\r\n','Assessment-of-Rural-Awareness-Work-Experience-Programme-(RAWE)-Programme-Implemented-through-Krishi-Vigyan-Kendra-(KVK)-Ningthoukhongjam-Soranganba-10.pdf','',1,'Krishi Vigyan Kendra’s have transformed itself into a micro-agro-ecology organisation and showcases diversified location specific farming modules advocating institutional programme like Rural Awareness Work Experience Programme (RAWE) to be taken up at Krishi Vigyan Kendras (KVK). The service and technical knowhow provided by the experts of KVK to graduating students through RAWE was not ascertained before about the effectiveness and efficiency. To establish the role of KVK implementing RAWE programme, a study was undertaken to assess the impact of conducting RAWE programme under the supervision of KVK Churachandpur, ICAR-RC for NEH Region, Manipur Centre as per the MoU signed between the former and South Asian Institute of Rural and Agricultural Management (SAIRAM). After assessing pre-acquired knowledge and comparing with post evaluation test, the result showed significant change (p <0.05) and improvement in the level of both the practical and theoretical knowledge of the RAWE students was recorded at 27.9% from pre-evaluation score of 24.4% to 31.2% in case of post-evaluation score. The per cent change of each subject and their respective share acquired by the RAWE students after the post evaluation examination observed maximum share by fishery science (16%) followed by others (15%) which include farm management, general agriculture related knowledge, agroforestry (14%), plant protection (14%), home science (12%), agriculture extension (11%), horticulture (10%) and soil science (8%) respectively. Based on the present investigation it can be inferred that KVK based RAWE programme can be beneficial and effective for the graduating students of agriculture and allied streams. The students have positive attitude towards RAWE programme which will certainly boost their perspective about on farm experience and helped enriched through practical knowledge. KVK is a mini-agro-ecology institute where diversified field of agriculture and allied activities can be experience, learned and conceived and the study provide a platform for understanding the impact of implementing RAWE through KVK system.','Rural Awareness Work Experience Programme (RAWE), Krishi Vigyan Kendra (KVK).','The present study revealed that the students have positive attitude towards RAWE programme and such activities at KVK was found to be helpful which will certainly boost their perspective of RAWE. KVK is a mini-agro-ecology where diversified field of agriculture and allied activities can be seen, experience, learned and conceived and this can go a long was in fulfilling their dreams and career in a big way. In RAWE, students are exposed to the concepts of \"learning by doing\" and \"seeing is believing,\" which gives them guidance while they think and behave independently. It gives students guidance on how to advance their knowledge, outlook, and abilities in order to graduate as experts and contribute to the overall growth of agriculture.','-','Ningthoukhongjam Soranganba, L. Somendro, N. Johnson, Ph. Chandramani, R. Laha and V.K. Mishra (2023). Assessment of Rural Awareness Work Experience Programme (RAWE) Programme Implemented through Krishi Vigyan Kendra (KVK). Biological Forum – An International Journal, 15(7): 55-58.'),(6958,'161','Influence of Nanoparticles on Plant Growth, Seed quality, Yield and Genetic changes in Maize (Zea mays L.)','Ezhilarasan K., Rame Gowda, Roopashree B. and Umarani K.','Influence-of-Nanoparticles-on-Plant-Growth,-Seed-quality,-Yield-and-Genetic-changes-in-Maize-(Zea-mays-L.)-Rame-Gowda-11.pdf','',1,'The study illustrates the potential usage and beneficial effects of nanochemicals through seed priming. The experiment was conducted on maize cv.MAH 14-138 F1 hybrid pot culture under polyhouse condition with few selected nanochemicals viz., silicon dioxide, titanium dioxide and iron oxide with two levels (500 and 1000 mg/kg of seeds). The results of the study revealed that polymer coating of SiO2NPs @500 mg per kg of seeds recorded significantly higher plant height (336.27cm), number of leaves (15), stem girth (4.77cm) as compared to untreated control (251.07cm, 13 and 3.09cm, respectively) at 90th day of sowing. Increased cob length (15.95 cm), cob diameter (6.81cm), cob seed weight (105.41 g), cob pith weight (63.90 g), total cob weight (170.64 g), number of seeds per cob (456) and 100 seed weight (26.63 g) recorded in T4 (dry dressing with TiO2 500 mg per kg of seeds) over control (9.87cm, 14.50cm, 45.97g, 21.70g, 71.0g, 300 and 16.14g, respectively). The resultant seeds were harvested at physiological maturity and evaluated for initial seed quality parameters. Seeds dry dressed in TiO2 500 mg/kg recorded maximum germination (95%), shoot length (19.61cm), root length (18.52cm), seedling length (38.13cm), dry weight of seedling (60.79mg/seedling), seedling vigour index-I (3791), seedling vigour index-II (5937), lower electrical conductivity of seed leachate (12.07µS/cm) and higher total dehydrogenase activity (0.547). The findings of the present study clearly suggest that both silicon dioxide and titanium dioxide nanochemicals @500 mg/kg of seeds with or without polymer mediated coating significantly improve maize seed production. Thus, nanoparticles have the potential to improve the growth and production of crops through various mechanisms.','Maize hybrid, nanochemicals, seed dry dressing, seed polymer coating, pot culture','The research findings of the study revealed that application of nanochemicals viz., silicon dioxide, titanium dioxide, iron oxide significantly improves the crop performance as well as the seed quality attributes of resultant crop of maize. Seed coating with SiO2 and TiO2 NPs @ 500 mg/kg of seeds both dry dressing and polymer mediated coating found to be most effective over other nano-chemicals seed treatments for effective and positive influence of crop growth and yield in maize. Nanotechnology is a leading technique in agricultural applications to promote plant germination, quality and improved production, protection from biotic and abiotic stresses. It is important to investigate the influence of metallic and non-metallic nanochemicals on morpho and physiological responses of plants and their mechanisms. Moreover, it is necessary of further studies to know about risks related to the usage of nanochemicals and its dosage because of its potential adverse effects in plants. Besides, it is also better to make comparative study on the green synthesis and commercially available nanoparticles of different kind on seed quality improvement and crop performance to nullify the effects of nanochemicals on soil health and biosafety.','-','Ezhilarasan K., Rame Gowda, Roopashree B. and Umarani K. (2023). Influence of Nanoparticles on Plant Growth, Seed quality, Yield and Genetic changes in Maize (Zea mays L.). Biological Forum – An International Journal, 15(7): 59-65.'),(6959,'161','Influence of Different Potassium Solubilizing Microbial Inoculants on Enzyme Activities and Biological Properties of Soil','Nihala Jabin P. P. and Syed Ismail','Influence of Different Potassium Solubilizing Microbial Inoculants on Enzyme Activities and Biological Properties of Soil-Nihala Jabin-12.pdf','',1,'Potassium (K) is an important nutrient required for plant growth. K present in soil include both available and non-available form and among this non-availble form is comparatively higher in concentration. Thus, many are following the addition of chemical fertilizers, and that finally depletes the soil quality. Here comes the importance of potassium solubilizing bacteria (KSB) because which could solubilize the insoluble K and make it available for plant uptake. To study this a pot trail was carried with soil planted brinjal to assess the influences of potassium solubilizing bacteria (KSB) on the enzyme activities and microbial count in soil. \r\nThe effects were examined of nine inoculation-treatments (KSB-W1, KSB-PD-3-A, KSB-NP-3, KSB-PD-1-A, KSB-M-1, KSB-PD, KSB-M-2, KSB-PD-1-B, KSB-M-3) and a non-inoculation (control) treatment on the enzyme-activities and the microbial-count in brinjal soil. The results showed that the Use of Pseudomonas sp (KSB-PD-1-A) inoculation significantly improved dehydrogenase activity in soil. Whereas highest increase in activity of acid and alkaline phosphates in soil was found at KSB strain Bacillus sp (KSB-PD-3-A). The soil microbial- population at all growth stages of brinjal crop was also increased with Pseudomonas sp (KSB-PD-1-A) along with recommended dose of fertilizers.\r\n','KSB, soil biological properties, enzyme activity, microbial count','All the inoculated treatments had higher enzyme activity and microbial count compared to control. Use of Pseudomonas sp (KSB-PD-1-A) inoculation significantly improved dehydrogenase activity in soil. Whereas highest rise in acid and alkaline-phosphates-activity in soil was found at KSB strain Bacillus sp (KSB-PD-3-A). The soil microbial-population at various growth stages of brinjal crop was also improved with Pseudomonas sp (KSB-PD-1-A) along with recommended dose of fertilizers.','-','Nihala Jabin P. P. and and Syed Ismail (2023). Influence of Different Potassium Solubilizing Microbial Inoculants on Enzyme Activities and Biological Properties of Soil. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 15(7): 66-70.'),(6960,'157','Effect of Vojta Therapy in Inhibiting the Primitive Reflexes in Children with Athetoid CP – A Pilot Study','Ramya K., Senthilkumar M., Prabhakaradoss D., Mallika S., Baskaran A. and D.S. Jeyanthi ','Effect-of-Vojta-Therapy-in-Inhibiting-the-Primitive-Reflexes-in-Children-with-Athetoid-CP-–-A-Pilot-Study-Ramya-K-233.pdf','',1,'Athetoid CP stands second to hemiplegic CP in prevalence and is mainly due to lesion in basal ganglia and or cerebellum, and might be due to brain injuries in fetal life or during delivery or after delivery till three months of age. Dyskinesia is the main feature of this type and the child represents with abnormal posturing, tone and involuntary movements. The persistence of primitive reflex is identified as the main cause which essentially affects the motor development of the child. This study was conducted among forty eight children who were diagnosed as Athetoid CP and fall between age 1 and 4 with GMFCS level IV and V and persistent ATNR, startle primitive reflexes formed the population of the study. Other types of CP children, children with spinal deformities, severe hip deformities and children with GMFCS level of I, II, III were excluded from the study. The subjects were randomly assigned into two groups – the Control group and the Experimental group and they received the Conventional Physiotherapy Exercises and Vojta Therapy with assistive devices for a period of of 4 days a week for 8 weeks respectively. The outcome measures of motor development and Reflex integration were assessed through GMFM score and Reflex Integration Scale. At the end of 8 weeks, the post test was done and the statistical analysis of the data revealed that the paired t-test was significant for the GMFM and the unpaired t-test was significant for all the components of GMFM – Lying, rolling, sitting, crawling and kneeling and Reflex integration, whereas the Control group showed significant improvement in the GMFM components of Lying, Rolling and sitting alone. Hence it was assumed that the Experimental group which received Vojta therapy along with positioning with postural devices like CP chair, Corner Chair performed well in all the outcomes and can be suggested as choice of treatment for athetoid CP children. There were challenges in maintaining the position of the child, but it was met by placing an attendant or the child’s mother near the child to distract the child from change of positioning or crying.','Athetoid CP, Vojta Therapy, Assistive Devices, Positioning of Children, Primitive Reflex','The study concludes that Vojta therapy has proven results in improving the motor development and inhibiting the primitive reflexes in children with athetoid CP.','-','Ramya K., Senthilkumar M., Prabhakaradoss D., Mallika S., Baskaran A. and D.S. Jeyanthi (2023). Effect of Vojta Therapy in Inhibiting the Primitive Reflexes in Children with Athetoid CP – A Pilot Study. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 15(5): 1550-1553.'),(6961,'157','Percentile Values of Serum Lipids Profile for Bengali School Going Boys in West Bengal, India','Supriya Kumar Misra','Percentile Values of Serum Lipids Profile for Bengali School Going Boys in West Bengal, India-Supriya Kumar Misra-234.pdf','',1,'Death rate due to cardiovascular disease is increasing in Bengali population in India. Serum lipids are associated to racial, environmental, gender and age specific in a particular community. To assess the dyslipidaemia and cardiovascular disease serum lipids are useful marker. The aim of this study was to assessing the percentile reference data of fasting serum lipids in normal healthy Bengali boys aged between 5 -12 years in West Bengal, India. This present cross-sectional and descriptive study was done on 291 boys in West Bengal aged 5-12 years. The selected subjects were partitioned into four different age groups such as (5-6), (7-8), (9-10) and (11-12) years respectively. From 5th to 95th percentiles values of fasting serum lipids such as serum Total cholesterol, Triglycerides, LDL cholesterol, HDL cholesterol, TC: HDL cholesterol ratio were analysed for four selected age groups of boys. From this study it is noted that the 5th, 10th, 25th, 75th, 90th and 95th fasting serum total cholesterol (TC), high density lipoprotein cholesterol (HDL-C), low density lipoprotein cholesterol (LDL-C) percentiles values were lower level and also higher level triglycerides (TG) when compared to Americans boys in all the selected age groups boys. This difference may be the cause of ethnical variances and environmental related factors like dietary pattern as well as physical inactivity. These percentiles reference data will help to identify and early assessment of cardiovascular disease and dyslipidaemia in Bengali children in future.','Boys, Bengali, CAD, Dyslipidaemia, Lipid, Lipid Profile','Findings from this study it may be conclude that our present reported lipid percentile values in Bengali children give significant information for important clinical analysis of blood lipids. From this research work, it also noted that in order to decrease such atherosclerotic risk factors; Bengali boys required to be screened in regular interval. This biochemical test is an easy and effective method of early detection cardiovascular heart disease. Those boys who identifying as being at higher risk for development coronary heart disease due to higher level of serum cholesterol should receive targeted intervention, as suggested by the American Heart Association (AHA). Health professional and state government must focus on supporting the early diagnosis and prevention of blood lipid profile abnormalities in school going Bengali boys in West Bengal, India.','-','Supriya Kumar Misra. (2023). Percentile Values of Serum Lipids Profile for Bengali School Going Boys in West Bengal, India. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 15(5): 1554-1558.'),(6962,'161','Consumption Pattern of Meat and Processed Meat Products in Kerala, India','Namratha Valsalan, Alimudeen S., Vijin V. L., Femi Francis and Kavitha Rjagopal ','Consumption-Pattern-of-Meat-and-Processed-Meat-Products-in-Kerala,-India-Namratha-Valsalan-13.pdf','',1,'The number of meat eaters have increased, contrary to the popular belief that Indian population is predominantly vegetarian. India’s total meat production as well as per capita availability of meat has shown steady increase in the past years. In this regard, a survey was conducted among the population of Kerala to understand consumer preference of meat species, frequency of consumption, knowledge about food safety and HACCP, reason for preference of meat etc. The survey was responded by fifty persons, out of which 46 per cent were female and 54 per cent were male. Irrespective of age, education and area of residence, chicken was the most opted meat. Fresh meat was preferred by most of the respondents and many consumed meat every 1 – 3 days. Hot processing of meat is liked by many and products like sausages, cutlets, bacon etc. were the common processed products that were consumed by the respondents. The respondents were aware of FSSAI rules, but they thought that the shops from where meat was purchased did not have any such certification. The study will contribute towards understanding the consumption pattern and market expectations of the consumers, which will play a direct role in improving the product quality, availability and marketing strategies.','Consumption Pattern, Meat, Meat Products, Processed Meat, Food Safety','The study for assessing consumer preference for meat products in Kerala showed that irrespective of age, education and area of residence, chicken was the most opted meat. Fresh meat was preferred by most of the respondents and many consumed meat every 1 – 3 days. Hot processing of meat is liked by many and products like sausages, cutlets, bacon etc. were the common processed products that were consumed by the respondents. The respondents were aware of FSSAI rules, but they thought that the shops from where meat was purchased did not have any such certification. \r\nThe rapid economic growth of the world has hastened the processes of industrialisation and urbanisation, boosted family income, and altered people\'s views towards meat consumption. The eating habits of consumers have evolved, and per capita consumption of beef and poultry meat has increased. Consumers\' concerns about food safety are growing, but because they lack the information to recognise meat safety issues, it is important to assist them in making informed judgments.\r\n','-','Namratha Valsalan, Alimudeen S., Vijin V. L., Femi Francis and Kavitha Rjagopal (2023). Consumption Pattern of Meat and Processed Meat Products in Kerala, India. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 15(7): 71-74.'),(6963,'157','Exploring the Classification, Properties, and Biological Green Synthesis of Nanoparticles: A Comprehensive Review','Nandan Singh Karki, Tanuja Bisht, Manoj Pal, Bipin Chandra Pathak and Manisha Bisht ','Exploring-the-Classification,-Properties,-and-Biological-Green-Synthesis-of-Nanoparticles-A-Comprehensive-Review-Manisha-Bisht-235.pdf','',1,'Green synthesis of nanoparticles using microorganism such as bacteria, fungi, and yeast has gained significant attention in recent years due to its potential as an eco-friendly and cost-effective alternative to traditional chemical synthesis methods. The synthesis of nanoparticles using plant extracts and microorganisms has been extensively explored as plants are a potential source of many reducing and capping agents. It is evident that microorganisms have enormous potential specially to synthesize metallic and metal oxide nanoparticles of various size and shapes. Therefore, the possibilities of different biological sources such as bacteria, fungi, and yeast in green synthesis were discussed and highlighted. However, some challenges are still exist such as the optimization of microbial growth, and the scalability of the synthesis process. Recently, many progressive efforts are being used to tackle these problems as discussed in this review article. This review article mainly emphasized on the classification, properties, and microorganism based green synthesis approaches of nanoparticles. ','Green synthesis, nanotechnology, nanoparticles, and nanoparticles applications','In conclusion, the green synthesis of nanoparticles using bacteria, fungi, and plants has emerged as a promising approach for the synthesis of nanoparticles. This approach is eco-friendly, cost-effective, and has significant potential for large-scale production. Bacteria, fungi, and plants possess unique biochemical pathways that can be exploited to synthesize nanoparticles with specific sizes, shapes, and surface properties. Additionally, green synthesized nanoparticles exhibit excellent biocompatibility and have a wide range of applications in various fields such as medicine, agriculture, and industry. Therefore, the use of bacteria, fungi, and plants for green synthesis of nanoparticles is a sustainable alternative to conventional methods that involve toxic chemicals and high energy consumption. \r\nHowever, there are some intrinsic drawbacks in green synthesis of nanoparticles using microorganisms as they are very sensitive to change in growth conditions such as temperature, pH, and nutrient availability. Slight change in growth conditions could lead to unfavorable results. Further, slow growth of microorganisms is also a major speed breaker in the progress of green synthesis. More researches are needed to control and optimize the growth conditions. The uprising field of genetic engineering is an effective solution to modify the microorganisms as per the requirements. It is expected that green synthesis approach will become more widely adopted and contribute to the development of a more sustainable and environmentally friendly future. \r\n','-','Nandan Singh Karki, Tanuja Bisht, Manoj Pal, Bipin Chandra Pathak and Manisha Bisht (2023). Exploring the Classification, Properties, and Biological Green Synthesis of Nanoparticles: A Comprehensive Review. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 15(5): 1559-1566.'),(6964,'157','Functional Constraints of Enzymatic activity of Tobacco Cutworm in Response to endophytic Aspergillus terreus','Surbjit Singh, Amarjeet Kaur and Sanehdeep Kaur','Functional-Constraints-of-Enzymatic-activity-of-Tobacco-Cutworm-in-Response-to-endophytic-Aspergillus-terreus-Surbjit-Singh-236.pdf','',1,'Endophytic fungi which live within the plant tissues asymptomatically are important mediators of plant-herbivore interactions. Secondary metabolites produced by the fungi or by plants as a result of interactions with fungi have been related to the anti-herbivore properties of fungal endophytes. To cope up from the harmful effects of these mycotoxins, insects have evolved a number of defense mechanisms, such as the production of digestive and detoxifying enzymes. These enzymes help in the detoxification of harmful plant metabolites and have positive effects on insects by breaking down complex compounds into simpler forms. Keeping in view the insecticidal potential of endophytic fungi, the present investigation has been undertaken to analyze the effect of ethyl acetate extract of endophytic Aspergillus terreus on the digestive and detoxifying enzymes of Spodoptera litura (Fabricius). After feeding the larvae on a diet containing fungal extract (LC50 = 2.31 mg/ml), the enzyme activity was assessed after 48 and 96 hours. The findings showed that when the larvae were fed supplemented diet, the activity of digestive enzymes such as α-amylase, α and β-glucosidases, and α and β-galactosidases reduced. Similarly detoxifying enzymes i.e. phosphatases, esterases, and GSTs have also been shown to be inhibited. It was also determined how endophyte infected cauliflower plants influence the digestive and detoxifying enzymes of S. litura. The results revealed that the larvae consuming endophyte-infected plants had reduced levels of activity in their detoxifying and digestive enzymes. In conclusion, the endophytic A. terreus exhibits enzyme inhibitory activity against S. litura.','Aspergillus terreus, Spodoptera litura, secondary metabolites, digestive and detoxifying enzymes','It is evident from this work that S. litura\'s digestive and detoxifying enzyme activity was significantly affected by the diet supplemented with ethyl acetate extract and endophyte-infected plants. The intestinal epithelium\'s ability to absorb nutrients can also be hindered by suppressed levels of digestive enzymes. The induction of digestive enzymes depends on feeding. As a result, a recent study by Singh et al., (2021) suggests that reduction of the activity of several digestive enzymes may be correlated with decreased consumption rate. Similarly, reduced detoxification enzyme activity is associated with the toxic effects of secondary metabolites produced by endophytic fungi on S. litura midgut epithelial cells, as secondary metabolites are known to induce cytotoxic effect (Edriss et al., 2012; Wink 2018; Mousavi and Karami 2022). Secondary metabolites of entomopathogenic fungi cause death by interfering with the insect host’s defense mechanisms (Gillespie and Claydon 1989, Zibaee et al., 2011). Thus this study shows secondary metabolites produced by endophytic A. terreus act as enzyme inhibitors.','-','Surbjit Singh, Amarjeet Kaur and Sanehdeep Kaur (2023). Functional Constraints of Enzymatic activity of Tobacco Cutworm in Response to endophytic Aspergillus terreus. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 15(5): 1567-1575.'),(6965,'151','Foam Mat Dried Tomato Pulp: Drying rate and Quantitative Characteristics ','Sudhirkumar B. Vinzuda and Navneet Kumar','Foam-Mat-Dried-Tomato-Pulp-Drying-rate-and-Quantitative-Characteristics--Sudhirkumar-B-Vinzuda-5.pdf','',1,'The tomato (Solanum lycopersicum) is one of the well-researched vegetables due to its commercial significance and extreme perishability. Tomatoes are utilized in a variety of fresh and processed forms, including juice, puree, sauce, powder, and tinned. The aim of this paper is to analyze the foaming properties and drying characteristics of tomato pulp. The effects of gram flour content (0, 5, 10, 15, and 20% w/w), methyl cellulose concentration (0, 0.125, 0.250, 0.375, and 0.50% w/w), and whipping time (5, 10, 15, 20, and 25 minutes) on the foaming characteristics (foam expansion, foam density, and foam stability) of tomato pulp were studied (5, 10, 15, 20, and 25 min). The maximum drying rates at 60, 65, 70, and 75°C were 0.17, 0.19, 0.24, and 0.24 g water/g dry matter per minute for a 2 mm drying thickness; 0.10, 0.11, 0.13, and 0.14 g water/g dry matter per minute for a 4 mm drying thickness; 0.06, 0.07, 0.08, and 0.10 for a 6 mm drying thickness; and 0.05, 0.05, 0.06, and 0.07 g water/g dry matter per minute for an 8 mm drying thickness.','Tomato, Foaming properties, Drying characteristics, Instant mix tomato khaman powder','Because the thin foam surface quickly removes moisture, foamed tomato pulp dried at all temperatures and thicknesses at a decreasing rate time. Foamed tomato pulp dried in 120 to 180, 180 to 240, 270 to 380, and 350 to 500 min with drying thicknesses 2, 4, 6, and 8 mm at 60-75°C. Maximum drying rates at 60, 65, 70, and 75°C were 0.17, 0.19, 0.24 and 0.24 g water dry matter per min for a 2 mm drying thickness; 0.10, 0.11, 0.13, and 0.14 g water dry matter per minute for a 4 mm drying thickness; 0.06, 0.07, 0.08, and 0.10 for a 6 mm drying thickness; and 0.05, 0.05, 0.06, and 0.07 g water/g dry matter per minute for an 8 mm drying thickness. Twelve popular models were examined to suit foamed tomato pulp experimental data. Midilli\'s model had a higher R2 value (0.99531) and lower χ2 (0.0006) & RMSE (0.0138) values were lower than other models, which indicates that the model fitted very well to the experimental data.','-','-'),(6966,'161','Evaluation of Sesame Genotypes for their Resistance against Leaf Webber, Antigastra catalaunalis Duponchel','J. Sharma, V. C. Gadhiya, A. Sharma, K.D. Shah and D.V. Patel','Evaluation-of-Sesame-Genotypes-for-their-Resistance-against-Leaf-Webber,-Antigastra-catalaunalis-Duponchel-J-Sharma-14.pdf','',1,'Leaf webber, Antigastra cataluanalis Duponchel is a serious pest of sesame causes 72 per cent yield loss. The bio-chemical constituents of genotypes/varieties can suppress the insect pest damage and increases the tolerance level of host plant. Decreasing the usage of chemical insecticides also an important advantage of resistant varieties. Therefore, these biochemical parameters can be utilized as a marker for identification of source of resistance against targeted pest. Thus, experiment was carried out to evaluate total ten genotypes/varieties for their resistance against leaf webber, A. catalaunalis based on morphological, biochemical and damage percentages at Instructional farm, Department of Agronomy, College of Agriculture, Junagadh Agricultural University, Junagadh during Kharif, 2021. Morphological characters and biochemical characters of sesame viz., number of leaves per plant (r = -0.928**) and total phenol (r = -0.857**) showed a negative highly significant correlation with per cent leaf damage. While, total sugar (r = 0.776**) and total protein (r = 0.683**) showed positive highly significant association with leaf damage. However, trichomes/cm2 (r = -0.259) showed non-significant negative correlation with per cent leaf damage. The number of capsules per plant (r = -0.876**) showed a highly significant negative correlation with the mean per cent of flower and capsule damage. Consideration of leaf, flower and capsule damage, none of the genotypes/varieties were found highly resistant (HS) and highly susceptible (HS). However, variety G. Til-10 and genotype AT-457 were found resistant (R) while varieties G. Til-4 and G. Til-6 were found susceptible (S) against leaf webber damage. Among all genotypes/varieties, the highest yield (520.13 kg/ha) was recorded from G. Til-10 followed by AT-457 (514.15 kg/ha). ','Sesame, leaf webber, Antigastra catalaunali, genotypes, screening','The varietal screening of sesame against leaf webber during kharif season revealed that the genotype AT-457 and variety G. Til-10 has very less amount of leaf, flower and capsule damage and highest yield with highest content of phenol. These genotype/variety also has lowest sugar and protein content which gives resistance character to them against A. catalaunalis. Moreover to this, these can be used as resistant source at farmer level.','-','J. Sharma, V. C. Gadhiya, A. Sharma, K.D. Shah and D.V. Patel (2023). Evaluation of Sesame Genotypes for their Resistance against Leaf Webber, Antigastra catalaunalis Duponchel. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 15(7): 75-82.'),(6967,'161','Studies on Storability of primed Seeds of Traditional Rice Variety Navara','J. Srinivasan and K. Indira Petchiammal','Studies-on-Storability-of-primed-Seeds-of-Traditional-Rice-Variety-Navara-J-Srinivasan-15.pdf','',1,'Storage without pesticide is a challengeable aspect. The deterioration of physiological quality of seeds during storage was strongly attributed to containers. Storage is the carryover of seed from one season to next sowing. On recommendation of presowing seed management techniques for betterment of plant population, necessitates the storability of treated seeds with expected benefits for longer period of usage. Researchers also expressed that seeds after imposing management techniques could be stored with expected in vigourative effect up to resowing. Traditional rice variety Navara with three different combinations of liquid biofertilizers Azospirillum (15%), Phosphobacteria (15%), Azospirillum (15%) Phospho bacteria (15%), in cloth bag, polythene bag and plastic containers for eight months along with hydro primed and control seeds. The results revealed that after eight months of storage, the seeds primed with Azospirillum (15%) Phospho bacteria (15%) maintained the germination above the seed certification standard with higher seedling quality characters compared to unprimed seed.','Navara, Traditional rice varieties, Seed storage, Storage containers','The seeds primed with combinations of bio products evaluated for seed quality characters were (15 per cent Azospirillum + 15 per cent Phosphobacteria, 15 per cent Azospirillum, 15 per cent Phosphobacteria) evaluated for storability along with unprimmed and hydroprimed seeds under ambient conditions of coimbatore for 8 months where the primed seeds were dried back to original moisture content and stored in air tight plastic containers under ambient condition. The results revealed that 15 per cent Azospirillum + 15 per cent Phosphobacteria by 15 Azospirillum, 15 per cent Phosphobacteria, performed best compared to unprimed seeds at the end of 8 months of storage, measuring the higher order level of seed vigour characters in terms of germination, seedling length, vigour index and dry matter production.','-','J. Srinivasan and K. Indira Petchiammal (2023). Studies on Storability of primed Seeds of Traditional Rice Variety Navara. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 15(7): 83-88.'),(6968,'161','Unlocking Crop Potential: Speed Breeding and its Synergies with Modern Breeding Techniques','Siddhanath Shendekar, Nandkumar Kute, Banoth Madhu, Durgeshwari Gadpayale, Megha Meshram, Basavaraj P.S., Abhimanyu Ingle and Arvind Totre','Unlocking-Crop-Potential-Speed-Breeding-and-its-Synergies-with-Modern-Breeding-Techniques-Siddhanath-Shendekar-16.pdf','',1,'The global population is projected to reach 8.5 billion by 2030, 9.7 billion by 2050 and 10.4 billion by 2100, posing a significant challenge to food and nutritional security. Further, malnutrition and climate change factors are exacerbating this challenge. In the past, classical plant breeding methods have played a crucial role in addressing food security however, currently these are not sufficient to meet the food demand of ever-increasing population. Therefore, novel breeding technologies, like speed breeding, offer a promising solution. The key driving factors of speed breeding are manipulation of crop photoperiods, accelerating plant development and reduces generation turn over time. It mainly relies on intense lighting regimes to expedite crop growth while maintaining plant health. Speed breeding allows to take up multiple generations of crops, such as wheat, pea, barley, and chickpea, in a year. This review explores the progress made through speed breeding and its integration with other modern breeding methods to address challenges posed by population growth and climate change. Complementary strategies like shuttle breeding, doubled haploid technology, off-season crops, embryo culture and immature seed germination are also discussed. Overall, speed breeding offers a potential solution to address global food security and climate change challenges by reducing generation time and accelerating variety development.','Speed breeding, photoperiod, temperature and generation','Speed breeding is an important technique to screen thousands of plant population in minimum period and less space to tackle the problems of climate fluctuations and global food security. Due to this technique it is possible to bred several varieties which can withstand in the era of climate change to resist the biotic and abiotic stresses within short period of time. Speed breeding can be combined with other modern breeding techniques such as plant phenotyping, marker assisted selection, marker assisted back crossing, genomic selection, genome editing and express edit to bred climate-smart crop varieties. Speed breeding protocols for short day and horticultural crops need to be optimized. Optimization of speed breeding protocols in neglected crops along with training of personnel for speed breeding are key aspects which need to be focused in future. By using speed breeding with modern breeding tools it’s possible to bring second green revolution to feed billions of populations.','-','Siddhanath Shendekar, Nandkumar Kute, Banoth Madhu, Durgeshwari Gadpayale, Megha Meshram, Basavaraj P.S., Abhimanyu Ingle and Arvind Totre (2023). Unlocking Crop Potential: Speed Breeding and its Synergies with Modern Breeding Techniques. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 15(7): 89-100.'),(6969,'161','Detection of Resistant Sources of Soybean against Sclerotium rolfsii in Assam condition','Priyankee Dutta','Detection-of-Resistant-Sources-of-Soybean-against-Sclerotium-rolfsii-in-Assam-condition-Priyankee-Dutta-17.pdf','',1,'Among the different production constraints in Soybean, diseases are most serious. These diseases are caused by various pathogens, out of which fungi causes greatest threat in crop production and it reduces the yield of the crop to a greater extent. A study was conducted during kharif (June–Nov.) 2018 and 2019 under net house condition of the Department of Plant Pathology, Assam Agricultural University Jorhat, Assam, India. It aimed to compare the performance of forty genotypes received from AICRP (All India Coordinated Research Project) on Soybean. Diseased soybean seedlings were used as the source of pathogen and it was collected from ICR farm of Assam Agricultural University. Disease reaction of the isolate of Sclerotium rolfsii was tested by blotter paper technique. Percent disease index (PDI) was evaluated in the forty genotypes. It ranged between 70-98. Based on the score HIMSO1688, PS1347, BRAGG, JS335 are found to show moderate resistance against collar rot. 28 genotypes namely PS1637, JS21-71, MACS1566, PS24, RSC11-17, MAUS734, Dsb33, NRC138, JS2171, PS1637, AUKS176, DS3110, MACS1620, MAUS732, KS113, SL958, NRC148, RSC11-15, RVS2011-10, CAUMS1, RVSM201135, VLS97, TS59, RVS2007-4, KDS1073, NRCSL2, KDS1009, BAUS100 showed high susceptibility to the pathogen and 8 genotypes DS3109, NRC146, SL1191, GJS3, NRC139, SL1171, HIMSO1689, JS9305 were found to be susceptible with high PDI. These four moderately resistant genotypes can thus serve as materials for future breeding activities.','Soybean, Sclerotium rolfsii, collar rot, resistant, Assam','HIMSO1688, PS1347, BRAGG, JS335 showed comparatively lower PDI for the pathogen Sclerotium rolfsii and thus have some potentiality to develop resistance against it. These genotypes has the potentiality for the control of the collar rot disease in Soybean field and can promote Soybean production in areas like Assam. Breeding works can be carried out to improve these varieties in terms of their yield potential and disease resistance by introducing useful genes which will thereby improve their potentiality to use them in disease management systems of Soybean.','-','Priyankee Dutta (2023). Detection of Resistant Sources of Soybean against Sclerotium rolfsii in Assam condition. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 15(7): 101-105.'),(6970,'161','Trends in Fertilizer Nutrients (N, P2O5 and K2O) Consumption in India','D. Srinivasa Chary, K. Supriya, T. Anjaiah, A. Meena and M. Ramesh ','Trends-in-Fertilizer-Nutrients-(N-P2O5-and-K2O)-Consumption-in-India-D-Srinivasa-Chary-18.pdf','',4,'The growth and yields of crops depend on the availability of the necessary amounts of the fertilizer components nitrogen (N), phosphorus (P2O5), and potassium (K2O). Better yields and sustainability of the environment are achieved by balanced fertilizing. Application of fertilizers in accordance with crop needs will increase crop production, but excessive fertilizer use will have a negative impact. The current study examined trends in the consumption of fertilizer nutrients. The secondary data on consumption of fertilizer nutrients (nitrogen, phosphorus and potassium) was collected for 72 years from 1950-1951 to 2021-2022. Different linear and non linear growth models were fitted to the data and examined the consumption pattern. Best fitted model was selected based on the highest AdjR2, lowest MAPE, RMSE and Theil’s U-Statistic. The consumption of nitrogen, phosphorus and total fertilizers was best fitted with the cubic model, where as the potassium consumption was best fitted the power model. The projection for four years from 2022-23 to 2025-26 was made for consumption of fertilizer nutrients. The linear and compound growth rates for the fertilizer nutrients consumption were calculated. The consumption of nitrogen, phosphorus, potassium and total fertilizer nutrients were recorded the linear growth rate of 4.155%, 4.397%, 4.188% and 4.219% and compound growth rate of 8.372%, 9.900%, 8.877% and 8.714% respectively.','Fertilizer consumption, growth model, R2, adjusted R2, RMSE, MAPE, Theil’s U-Statistic, trends, linear growth rate and compound growth rate','The present study revealed that the consumption of all the fertilizer nutrients (nitrogen, phosphorus, potassium and total fertilizers) is showing increasing trend with a positive growth rates. These results are in accordance with the results of Singh and Jai (2018) and the projection made by Borkar (1982) up to 2030. The best fitted models for nitrogen, phosphorus, potassium and total fertilizer nutrients consumption were estimated the consumption at 20922.96, 8805.32, 3296.86 and 32642.37 metric tons respectively by 2025-26. Consumption of the fertilizer nutrients nitrogen, phosphorus, potassium and total fertilizer have recorded positive linear growth rates of 4.155%, 4.397%, 4.188% and 4.219% respectively and compound growth rates of 8.372% 9.900%, 8.877% and 8.714% respectively. The usage of fertilizer nutrients as per soil requirements enhances the productivity, whereas the excessive usage of fertilizers will lead to the negative results (Avinash et al., 2022). The technologies like variable rate of fertilizer application can be utilized for the optimum usage of fertilizers for the sustainable agriculture. ','-','D. Srinivasa Chary, K. Supriya, T. Anjaiah, A. Meena and M. Ramesh (2023). Trends in Fertilizer Nutrients (N, P2O5 and K2O) Consumption in India. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 15(7): 106-112.'),(6971,'159','Trends in Fertilizer Nutrients (N, P2O5 and K2O) Consumption in India','D. Srinivasa Chary, K. Supriya, T. Anjaiah, A. Meena and M. Ramesh','Trends-in-Fertilizer-Nutrients-(N-P2O5-and-K2O)-Consumption-in-India-D-Srinivasa-Chary-106.pdf','',1,'The growth and yields of crops depend on the availability of the necessary amounts of the fertilizer components nitrogen (N), phosphorus (P2O5), and potassium (K2O). Better yields and sustainability of the environment are achieved by balanced fertilizing. Application of fertilizers in accordance with crop needs will increase crop production, but excessive fertilizer use will have a negative impact. The current study examined trends in the consumption of fertilizer nutrients. The secondary data on consumption of fertilizer nutrients (nitrogen, phosphorus and potassium) was collected for 72 years from 1950-1951 to 2021-2022. Different linear and non linear growth models were fitted to the data and examined the consumption pattern. Best fitted model was selected based on the highest AdjR2, lowest MAPE, RMSE and Theil’s U-Statistic. The consumption of nitrogen, phosphorus and total fertilizers was best fitted with the cubic model, where as the potassium consumption was best fitted the power model. The projection for four years from 2022-23 to 2025-26 was made for consumption of fertilizer nutrients. The linear and compound growth rates for the fertilizer nutrients consumption were calculated. The consumption of nitrogen, phosphorus, potassium and total fertilizer nutrients were recorded the linear growth rate of 4.155%, 4.397%, 4.188% and 4.219% and compound growth rate of 8.372%, 9.900%, 8.877% and 8.714% respectively.','Fertilizer consumption, growth model, R2, adjusted R2, RMSE, MAPE, Theil’s U-Statistic, trends, linear growth rate and compound growth rate','The present study revealed that the consumption of all the fertilizer nutrients (nitrogen, phosphorus, potassium and total fertilizers) is showing increasing trend with a positive growth rates. These results are in accordance with the results of Singh and Jai (2018) and the projection made by Borkar (1982) up to 2030. The best fitted models for nitrogen, phosphorus, potassium and total fertilizer nutrients consumption were estimated the consumption at 20922.96, 8805.32, 3296.86 and 32642.37 metric tons respectively by 2025-26. Consumption of the fertilizer nutrients nitrogen, phosphorus, potassium and total fertilizer have recorded positive linear growth rates of 4.155%, 4.397%, 4.188% and 4.219% respectively and compound growth rates of 8.372% 9.900%, 8.877% and 8.714% respectively. The usage of fertilizer nutrients as per soil requirements enhances the productivity, whereas the excessive usage of fertilizers will lead to the negative results (Avinash et al., 2022). The technologies like variable rate of fertilizer application can be utilized for the optimum usage of fertilizers for the sustainable agriculture. ','-','D. Srinivasa Chary, K. Supriya, T. Anjaiah, A. Meena and M. Ramesh (2023). Trends in Fertilizer Nutrients (N, P2O5 and K2O) Consumption in India. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 15(6): 690-696.'),(6972,'157','An In silico Approach for Molecular Targets in Candida albicans using Prodigiosin-a Bacterial Pigment for Anti-fungal Activity','Gujjeti Chandrakala, Baireddy Vijayapal Reddy and Gurram Shyam Prasad','An-In-silico-Approach-for-Molecular-Targets-in-Candida-albicans-using-Prodigiosin-a-Bacterial-Pigment-for-Anti-fungal-Activity-Gurram-Shyam-Prasad-237.pdf','',1,'Drug resistance in Candida sps especially Candida albicans led to increased morbidity and mortality in mankind all over the world. The development of different antifungal drugs with novel targets is the need of the day. The unicellular Candida species are opportunistic pathogens causing simple mucocutaneous to fungemia leading to death in immunocompromised patients. Among different infections caused by Candida, cutaneous candidiasis which is an infection of the skin is alarming. This fungus has survival and virulence factors leading to decreased host immunity response making infection more difficult to control. The increase in fungal resistance necessitates the search for novel antifungal drugs with different mechanisms of action. Hence, in the present investigation, an attempt was made in silico using prodigiosin a bacterial pigment as a ligand to identify different molecular targets in Candida albicans for antifungal activity using fluconazole as a standard reference drug. An advanced docking software Auto Dock was used for the study. Prodigiosin was found to show potent binding affinity to Sterol 14-alpha demethylase (CYP51) followed by Secreted aspartic proteinase (Sap) 5 and Als3 adhesin from Candida albicans compared to the standard reference drug fluconazole. \r\nFrom the above results, it can be concluded that prodigiosin can be a potent drug in treating dermatological problems caused by Candida sps. However, in vitro and in vivo studies are needed for confirmation of Prodigiosin activity.\r\n','Fluconazole, Prodigiosin, Sterol 14-alpha demethylase (CYP51), Secreted aspartic proteinase (Sap) 5, Als3 adhesin','Development of drug resistance by different fungi is an alarming state and there is an urgent need for novel drug discovery in an ecofriendly and economical way by identifying different fungal targets. In the present study prodigiosin, a bacterial pigment was found to superior in binding to different protein targets of Candida albicans compared to the standard reference drug Fluconazole and the drug likeliness was also was in compliance with the given criteria for oral formulations. Hence, Prodigiosin can be developed as an antifungal drug in treating infections of Candida albicans. However, further investigations are required in vitro and in vivo in confirming these results.','-','Gujjeti Chandrakala, Baireddy Vijayapal Reddy and Gurram Shyam Prasad (2023). An In silico Approach for Molecular Targets in Candida albicans using Prodigiosin-a Bacterial Pigment for Anti-fungal Activity. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 15(5): 1576-1583.'),(6973,'157','Susceptibility and Relative Toxicity of Certain Phyto-Extracts against Lemon Caterpillars, Papilio demoleus (Linn.)','Yogendra Pal Singh and Ramakant','Susceptibility-and-Relative-Toxicity-of-Certain-Phyto-Extracts-against-Lemon-Caterpillars,-Papilio-demoleus-(Linn.)-Yogendra-Pal-Singh-238.pdf','',1,'Traditional chemical insecticides (inorganic or synthetic) have an inherent toxicity which are fatal to human beings, other animals, and environment, because these chemical insecticides are non bio-degradable as they reached in to the food chain and cause several disorders and diseases in human and animals. These chemical pesticides are responsible for degradation of soil structure. But toxin or bio-pesticides of plant origin are the formulations of natural derivatives from plants products that possessed insecticidal properties in them. These are risk free, eco-friendly, bio-degradable and do not reached into the food chain to cause any hazards to human and other beneficial animals. These properties of bio-pesticides lead to their utilization to the fullest in order to save the environment as well as ensuring quality of life. It is the need of today to promote the use of bio-pesticides in all kinds of agricultural practices to meet the environmental challenges particularly health related ones. No immunity can be glimpsed in insect pests against them. Several plants possess toxicity in their roots, shoots, leaves and fruits also having much susceptibility to insect pests. The susceptibility of certain plant extracts, viz. Nicotiana tabacum (Tobacco), Derris elliptica (Derris), Ricinus communis (Caster) and Papaver somniferum (Opium), isolated by Soxhlet extraction with organic solvents were tested against the larvae of lemon butterfly, Papilio demoleus in laboratory conditions. The results indicated that tobacco extract was found the most superior to the other plants extracts tested. ','Natural derivatives, eco-friendly, susceptibility, plants extracts, bio-degradable','From the present study it can be concluded that the hazardous impacts of using chemical insecticides badly affect the entire ecosystem since it has definite circulation in the food chain, thus reaches at all possible levels and causes significant negative impact. To meet the challenges of today, the regular utilization of bio-pesticides has to be promoted at large scale to control insect pests. As far as the susceptibility of various plant extracts against the larvae of lemon butterfly is concerned, certain plant extracts, viz., Nicotiana tabacum (Tobacco), Derris elliptica (Derris), Ricinus communis (Caster) and Papaver somniferum (Opium), isolated by Soxhlet extraction with organic solvents were tested against the larvae of lemon butterfly, Papilio demoleus in laboratory conditions. The results indicated that tobacco extract was found the most superior to the other plants extracts tested. Lemon butterfly causes great loss to the citrus crop, therefore, as suggested by present study the regular use of various plant extracts in the form of bio-pesticide could be of great importance not only for saving this valuable crop but also to enhance economy of the nation. ','-','Yogendra Pal Singh and Ramakant (2023). Susceptibility and Relative Toxicity of Certain Phyto-Extracts against Lemon Caterpillars, Papilio demoleus (Linn.). Biological Forum – An International Journal, 15(5): 1584-1588.'),(6974,'161','Influence of Resource Conservation Practices on Economics of Wheat (Triticum aestivum L.) under Limited Irrigated Condition','Kamal Tiwari, Sanjeev Kumar, Ashish Kumar Srivastava, Shailendra Singh, Ram Niwas, Anushi and Jitendra Kumar ','Influence-of-Resource-Conservation-Practices-on-Economics-of-Wheat-(Triticum-aestivum-L.)-under-Limited-Irrigated-Condition-Kamal-Tiwari-18.pdf','',1,'A field experiment was carried out at Chandra Shekhar Azad University of Agriculture & Technology, Kanpur (U.P.) during Rabi season of 2020-21 and 2021-22 to study the “Influence of moisture conserving polymer and integrated nutrient management on productivity of wheat (Triticum aestivum L.) under limited irrigated condition”. The experiment comprised of twenty four treatment combinations and conducted in split plot design and replicated three times. Experiment consisted of three irrigation schedules viz., One irrigation, Two irrigations, and Three irrigations in main plots, two moisture conservation practices viz., Pusa Hydrogel 5 kg ha-1 and Paddy straw mulch 5 t ha-1 in sub plots and four nutrient management viz. 100% RDF, 100% RDF + Azotobacter, 75% RDF + Azotobacter + FYM 5 t ha-1 and 75% RDF + Azotobacter + FYM 5 t ha-1 + ZnSO4 20 kg ha-1 were kept in sub-sub plots. On pooled basis of two years experimentation results indicated that significantly higher grain and straw and biological yield were recorded in the three irrigations. Among, the moisture conservation practices significantly higher yield was recorded with the application of Pusa Hydrogel 5 kg ha-1 than paddy straw mulch 5 t ha-1. However, in the integrated nutrient management same parameters as above significantly higher were recorded with the integration of 75% RDF + Azotobacter + FYM 5 t ha-1 + ZnSO4 20 kg ha-1 which was followed by 75% RDF + Azotobacter + FYM 5 t ha-1. Higher net return and benefit cost (B:C) ratio were recorded in the combination of three irrigations, Pusa hydrogel 5 kg ha-1 and 100% RDF + Azotobacter treatments.','Irrigation, Pusa hydrogel, Mulch, Azotobacter, FYM and Wheat','The results of this experiment demonstrated that cultivation of wheat with the application of three irrigations, Pusa hydrogel and integration of 100% RDF + Azotobacter result revealed significant improvement into yield and profitability of crop than other treatments. In limited irrigation condition, wheat growers can get higher income with the application of three irrigations, Pusa hydrogel 5 kg ha-1 and 100% RDF + Azotobacter treatment combination.','-','Kamal Tiwari, Sanjeev Kumar, Ashish Kumar Srivastava, Shailendra Singh, Ram Niwas, Anushi and Jitendra Kumar (2023). Influence of Resource Conservation Practices on Economics of Wheat (Triticum aestivum L.) under Limited Irrigated Condition. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 15(7): 106-110.'),(6975,'161','Study of the Physiochemical Properties of Apis mellifera L. Wax from the Two Regions of Madhya Pradesh, India','Sakshi Saxena A.S. Yadav, S.P.S. Tomar and Sushma Tiwari ','Study-of-the-Physiochemical-Properties-of-Apis-mellifera-L.-Wax-from-the-Two-Regions-of-Madhya-Pradesh,-India-Sakshi-Saxena-19.pdf','',1,'Beewax is one of the most precious bee products which are produced by worker bee and used to construct their hive. Beeswax is a biodegradable, eco-friendly and valuable product that can provide a worthwhile income in addition to honey. It has several commercial, medical, and therapeutic uses that necessitate understanding its chemical makeup. The study analyzed the physicochemical properties of beeswax collected from different locations in Guna and Morena districts of Madhya Pradesh during 2021-22 and 2022-23. Eight beeswax samples were collected from local beekeepers apiary and evaluated. The result showed that the range of compositional content of beeswax viz, melting point (61.70 to 64.23°C and 61.57-64.03°C), refractive index (1.430 -1.442 and 1.433-1.445), specific gravity (0.955-0.975 and 0.955-0.973), ash content (0.033 to 0.078% and 0.032-0.079%), total volatile matter (0.327-0.583% and 0.377-0.543%), saponification value (91.67-99.33 and 92.33-98.67) acid value (18.79-22.87 and 19.12-22.53), ester value (72.88-76.47 and 73.03-76.27) and ester to acid ratio(3.38-3.90 and 3.40-3.87) during 2021-22 and 2022-23 respectively. However, except ash content all other parameters of beewax sample showed non-significant variation among the collected location. The overall results revealed that all the beeswax samples satisfied the acceptability criteria set by national standards. Based on these results, beeswax can safely be used as a food additive and subjected to the pharmacological industry.','Beewax, physicochemical properties, Apis mellifera, acid value, ester value, refractive index','This research conclude that the physicochemical characteristics of beeswax produced in the Guna and Morena regions reflect acceptable quality when compared to national guidelines established to figure out the purity of the beeswax. According to the present results, the difference between the physicochemical properties of the beeswax samples was non-significant except ash content suggesting that geographical origin has no influence on natural beeswax. This research boosted information on the bee wax quality of this region and advised business expansion and employment creation strategy for the local community, as well as to increase the revenue potential of the sub sector enterprise.','-','Sakshi Saxena A.S. Yadav, S.P.S. Tomar and Sushma Tiwari (2023). Study of the Physiochemical Properties of Apis mellifera L.wax from the Two Regions of Madhya Pradesh, India. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 15(7): 111-116.'),(6976,'161','Non-rhizospheric Trichoderma- A Boon for Improving Nutrient uptake, Plant Growth and Yield in Tomato','Ajith C.R., Pankaja N.S., Mahadeva J. and Umashankar Kumar N.','Non-rhizospheric-Trichoderma--A-Boon-for-Improving-Nutrient-uptake,-Plant-Growth-and-Yield-in-Tomato-AJITH-CR-20.pdf','',1,'Fungal biocontrol agent, Trichoderma sp. found in many ecosystems, is known to grow as plant symbiont and promote plant growth and nutrition apart from biocontrol activity. We conducted a pot culture experiment to evaluate the efficacy of native Trichoderma isolates obtained from different locations and non-rhizospheric sources, previously identified effective in dual culture technique, in promoting nutrient use efficiency (NUE) in plants. Different application methods viz., seed treatment, soil application and their combination was amalysed with untreated check and commercial isolate was used as standard check. The combination treatment was significantly superior in soil nutrient release and uptake by plants compared to control, along with plant growth and yield. Among different isolates, SMV, PSV and GMV were identified as most effective, which significantly increased the uptake of N, P, K, Ca, Mg and S compared to commercial isolate. Studying the sole contribution of native non-rhizospheric isolates of Trichoderma was a challenging job and by our experiment it was clear that the native isolates of Trichoderma obtained from non-rhizosphere sources exhibit not only significant antagonistic activity but also improved plant NUE thereby increasing plant growth and yield. This can be an important contribution to organic farming, natural farming and sustainable agriculture. ','Native isolates, nutrient uptake, plant growth, tomato, Trichoderma spp','Application of 5 different non-rhizospheric native isolates in different treatments revealed T2, the combination treatment as the best which recorded significant increase nutrient uptake, growth parameters and yield parameters of tomato plant. Among different isolates, SMV and PSV were the best isolates which recorded increase in uptake of maximum number of nutrients. The isolates SMV and PSV increased the uptake of P, Ca, K, N, Mg, and S. The isolate PSV was the best isolate which promoted all studied growth parameters. The isolate SMV was the next effective isolate with respect to tomato growth promotion. While, the isolate GMV showed superiority with tomato fruit yield. Thus, apart from understanding that the application of Trichoderma spp. proved benefit for the plant, it is evident that Trichoderma isolates obtained from non-rhizospheric sources can perform better and therefore is an important aspect for future research.','-','Ajith C.R., Pankaja N.S., Mahadeva J. and Umashankar Kumar N. (2023). Non-rhizospheric Trichoderma- A Boon for Improving Nutrient uptake, Plant Growth and Yield in Tomato. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 15(7): 117-127.'),(6977,'161','Biogenic Synthesis of Zinc Nanoparticles using Wheat Root extract and endophytic Bacterium and their Effect on Wheat Germination and Seedling Vigour Index','Patil Vishal N., Moharil M.P., Sakhare S.B., Ingale A.P., Bharad S.G., Hadole S.S., Gade A.K., Ghorade R.B. and Kharche V.K.','Biogenic-Synthesis-of-Zinc-Nanoparticles-using-Wheat-Root-extract-and-endophytic-Bacterium-and-their-Effect-on-Wheat-Germination-and-Seedling-Vigour-Index-Patil-Vishal-N-21.pdf','',1,'Nanoparticles are now used much more frequently in consumer goods as a result of the development of nanotechnology. This raises questions about how they may affect the health of plants. In present study, Zinc Oxide nanoparticles (ZnO NPs) were synthesized from wheat root extract and endophytic bacterium by green synthesis method. The synthesized nanoparticles were characterized by UV-visible spectrophotometry which showed an absorbance peak at 362 nm and 365 nm and particle size analysis showed that an average size of zinc oxide nanoparticles synthesized from wheat root extract was 19.66 nm and zinc oxide nanoparticles synthesized from endophytic bacterium was 37.3 nm, respectively. Different concentrations ZnO NPs (250, 500, 750 and 1000 ppm) were used to treat wheat seeds in order to assess their impact on seed germination. Significant effects on germination percentage, root length, shoot length, seedling length, root dry weight, shoot dry weight and seed vigour index (I and II) were seen at 500 ppm. Moreover, a decrease in all parameters that determined the negative effect of nanoparticles at higher concentrations was observed as ZnO NP concentration increased (to 750 ppm). Consequently, the findings of this study contributed that wheat root extract and endophytic bacterium may be employed as suitable sources for the green synthesis of ZnO NPs and that ZnO NP treatment had a substantial impact on seedling growth and Seed vigour index.','Wheat root extract, Endophytic bacterium, ZnO NPs, SVI','Present study concluded, ZnO NPs can be synthesized by using wheat root extract and endophytic bacterium as a reducing agent. UV-visible spectroscopy and Particle size analysis indicated the synthesis of ZnO NPs. The significant increase was observed in germination percentage, root length, shoot length, seedling length, root dry weight, shoot dry weight, seed vigour index I and seed vigour index II at different concentrations of ZnO NPs treatment. The maximum increase in all parameters was exhibited at 500 ppm concentration. Further, increase in concentration (750 ppm) showed a reduction in all parameters that was possible due to the toxicity of nanoparticles at higher concentration.','-','Patil Vishal N., Moharil M.P., Sakhare S.B., Ingale A.P., Bharad S.G., Hadole S.S., Gade A.K., Ghorade R.B. and Kharche V.K. (2023). Biogenic Synthesis of Zinc Nanoparticles using Wheat Root extract and endophytic Bacterium and their Effect on Wheat Germination and Seedling Vigour Index. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 15(5): 128-135.'),(6978,'161','Nutrient dynamics of Rice Varieties Influenced by Planting Geometry under Semi Dry Cultivation','K.K. Ajmal, P.S. Fathima, K. N. Kalyana Murthy, S. Ganapathi, G.R. Denesh and S.S. Prakash ','Nutrient-dynamics-of-Rice-Varieties-Influenced-by-Planting-Geometry-under-Semi-Dry-Cultivation-KK-Ajmal-22.pdf','',1,'Rice is the most important food crop grown in India. Lack of suitable varieties and improper planning geometry are the major challenges in the direct seeded rice ecosystem. A study was conducted at College of Agriculture, (V.C. Farm), Mandya, University of Agricultural Sciences, Bengaluru during kharif 2019 and 2020 to find out optimum planting geometry for rice varieties under semi dry condition for higher productivity. The experiment was laid out in split-plot design and replicated thrice comprising of treatments two row spacing’s (20 cm and 30 cm) assigned to main plots. Each main plot was further divided into eight sub-plots to accommodate eight plant varieties (V1-KMP-175, V2- RNR-15048, V3- RNR-15038, V4- Rasi, V5- MTU-1001, V6- MTU-1010, V7- IR-64, V8- Gangavathi sona). 20 cm row spacing recorded significantly higher nutrient uptake and nutrient use efficiency compared to 30 cm row spacing. Whereas in varieties KMP-175 recorded higher nutrient uptake and nutrient use efficiency over other varieties.','Semi dry rice, row spacing, nutrient uptake, nutrient use efficiency','From the investigation it can be recommended that growing of semi dry rice variety KMP-175 in 20 cm row spacing under semi dry method of rice cultivation is beneficial compared to wider spacing and other varieties under southern dry zone of Karnataka. ','-','K.K. Ajmal, P.S. Fathima, K. N. Kalyana Murthy, S. Ganapathi, G.R. Denesh and S.S. Prakash (2023). Nutrient dynamics of Rice Varieties Influenced by Planting Geometry under Semi Dry Cultivation. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 15(7): 136-140.'),(6979,'161','Study on Yield, Nutrient Content and Nutrient Uptake of Rice-Based Intercropping System as Influenced by Integrated Nutrient Management','Gauri Mohan, T. Gohain, Lanunola Tzudir, A.P. Singh and D. Nongmaithem ','Study-on-Yield,-Nutrient-Content-and-Nutrient-Uptake-of-Rice-Based-Intercropping-System-as-Influenced-by-Integrated-Nutrient-Management-Gauri-Mohan-23.pdf','',1,'A field experiment was conducted during kharif season of 2019 and 2020 in the experimental farm, Department of Agronomy, School of Agricultural Sciences, Nagaland University, Medziphema campus, to study the effect of intercropping of groundnut and soybean with upland rice under different nutrient management practices in the rainfed condition of Nagaland. The experiment was conducted in a randomized block design with three replications. The treatment consisted of five cropping systems C1: Sole rice, C2: Sole groundnut, C3: Sole soybean, C4: Rice + groundnut (3:1), C5: Rice + soybean (3:1) and three nutrient management practices., N1: 100% RDF + FYM @ 2.5 t ha-1 + biofertilizer consortium @ 20 g kg-1 seed, N2: 75% RDF + FYM @ 5 t ha-1 + biofertilizer consortium @ 20 g kg-1 seed, N3: 50% RDF + FYM @ 7.5 t ha-1 + biofertilizer consortium @ 20 g kg-1 seed. Among the different intercropping system, rice + soybean (3:1) recorded the highest nitrogen, phosphorous and potassium (NPK) uptake, grain and straw yield. Among different nutrient management practices, application of 75% RDF + FYM @ 5 t ha-1 + biofertilizer consortium @ 20 g kg-1 seed recorded significantly higher nitrogen, potassium (NPK) content and uptake, grain and straw yield. The results of this experiment indicate that rice intercropped with soybean and application of 75% RDF + FYM @ 5 t ha-1 + biofertilizer consortium @ 20 g kg-1 is superior to other treatments and can be used in similar climatic conditions.','Cropping system, Nutrient, Uptake, FYM, RDF','The present investigation revealed that among intercropping systems, rice + soybean intercropping system was found to be most suitable than rice+ groundnut intercropping. This system recorded the highest grain yield. Among the different doses of nutrient management applied, N2-75% RDF along with FYM @ 5 t ha-1and biofertilizer consortium @ 20 g kg-1 seed was found to be most suitable as it registered the highest production under the rainfed condition of Nagaland.','-','Gauri Mohan, T. Gohain, Lanunola Tzudir, A.P. Singh and D. Nongmaithem (2023). Study on Yield, Nutrient Content and Nutrient Uptake of Rice-Based Intercropping System as Influenced by Integrated Nutrient Management. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 15(7): 141-146.'),(6980,'146','Influence of Denavelling and Bunch Feeding of Nutrients on Yield, Qualities and Economics of Banana','Shefalika Nayak, Sunil Samal and Subash Ch. Swain','Influence-of-Denavelling-and-Bunch-Feeding-of-Nutrients-on-Yield,-Qualities-and-Economics-of-Banana-Shefalika-Nayak-237.pdf','',1,'An experiment was carried out to study the effect of denavelling and bunch feeding of nutrients on banana cv. Champa (AAB) at the AICRP on fruits, Horticulture Research Station, Odisha University of Agriculture and Technology, Bhubaneswar during the year 2020. The results revealed that denavelling of bunch with supplementation of bunch feeding significantly influence the yield and quality of banana. The Maximum value in respect of T.S.S. (22.140B), reducing sugar (16.11 %), total sugar (20.72 %), non-reducing sugar (4.61%), ascorbic acid (5.35 mg / 100 g) and minimum acidity (0.25) were observed with T5 (Denavelling + bunch feeding of cow dung slurry with K2SO4 @15g/plant). Whereas, pulp characters of finger like pulp weight (75.25 g), peel weight (15.36g), pulp to peel ratio (4.97) and yield (34.53t/ha) were noticed maximum in T5 which is followed by T4 (Denavelling + bunch feeding of cow dung slurry with K2SO4 @7.5g/plant). The economic analysis of the study indicated that the maximum gross return (Rs. 6,90,600/-, net return (Rs. 4,54,650/-) and B:C (2.920 was realised in the treatment T5 (Denavelling + bunch feeding of cow dung slurry with K2SO4 @15g/plant) as compared to T1: control. Hence, the results clearly indicated that denavelling along with bunch feeding is a viable proposition for enhancing the productivity, quality and profitability of banana cultivation. ','Banana, cv. Champa, denavelling, bunch feeding, B:C ratio','The direct application of nutrients to plants through distal stalk end feeding is important post-shoot bunch management practices to increase the yield. The results showed that a robust relationship exists between the quantity of SOP used and the expected increase in yield. The present study clearly indicates that the practice of denavelling along with combined application of cow dung slurry and K2SO4 @15g/plant to the banana bunch proved to be the best in pulp characters as maximum recorded in weight (75.25 g), peel weight T5 (15.36g), pulp to peel ratio (4.97), yield (34.53t/ha) and quality as recorded maximum T.S.S. (22.140B), reducing sugar (16.11 %), total sugar (20.72 %), non-reducing sugar (4.61%), ascorbic acid (5.35 mg / 100 g) and minimum acidity (0.25) T.S.S. (22.140B), reducing sugar (16.11 %), total sugar (20.72 %), non-reducing sugar (4.61%), ascorbic acid (5.35 mg /100 g) and acidity (0.25) T.S.S.(22.140B), reducing sugar (16.11 %), total sugar (20.72 %), non-reducing sugar (4.61%), ascorbic acid (5.35 mg / 100 g) and acidity (0.25) for improving the uniformity in bunch and fruit nutrient status which in turn helps to increase the total yield and higher net return and B:C ratio (2.92).','-','Shefalika Nayak, Sunil Samal, Subash Ch. Swain and Saudamini Swain (2022). Impact of Denavelling and Bunch Feeding on Yield, Yield Attributing Characters and Shelf-life in Banana cv. Champa. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 14(4): 1329-1333.'),(6981,'161','Mental Health of Students and their Academic Performance during COVID-19 Pandemic in Tamil Nadu','Mohammed Ghouse L., C. Karthikeyan and R. Pangayar Selvi','Mental-Health-of-Students-and-their-Academic-Performance-during-COVID-19-Pandemic-in-Tamil-Nadu-Mohammed-Ghouse-L-24.pdf','',1,'Mental health of students was at great concern due to the immense impact of COVID-19 pandemic and it caused all the educational institution to go through online mode. University Grants Commission (UGC) insisted Higher Educational Institutes to take online learning during lockdown period. Students were not prepared for this situation. Attending online classes continuously eight hours per day resulted in affecting physical health of students but it was noted that mental health of students also got affected. This worsened condition of mental health has a great effect on their academic performance. This study conducted among undergraduate students from Tamil Nadu Agricultural University (TNAU). Mental health of students was measured in terms of psychological state of students during COVID-19 pandemic and their opinion towards online education. Academic performance was measured in terms of Grade Point Average (GPA) secured by students when they undergone online education. Multiple linear regression analysis was performed to know the effect of mental health of students on their academic performance during COVID-19 pandemic. The result revealed that psychological state of students during COVID-19 pandemic has negative and significant effect on academic performance of students. The students who are all having high level of stress during COVID-19 pandemic had secured low GPA in examinations. The possible reason might be the isolation from friends, relatives and neighbors. Many of the students’ family members have been affected through COVID-19. This might have affected the students mentally and leads to the low level of academic performance. It was difficult to know the mental health of students because most of the students didn’t aware about the worsening condition of mental health due to the online classes during COVID-19 pandemic situation.','Psychological state, Opinion of students, COVID-19 pandemic, online education','Mental health of students was measured in terms of psychological state of students during COVID-19 pandemic and their opinion towards online education. Academic performance was measured in terms of Grade Point Average (GPA) secured by students when they undergone online education. Multiple linear regression analysis was performed to know the effect of mental health of students on their academic performance during COVID-19 pandemic. From this study, it was evident that psychological state of students during COVID-19 pandemic has negative and significant effect on academic performance of students when they undergone online education. Students need to be trained before they enter into online mode of education. Counseling sessions need to be provided to concern about academic and psychological problems students going through during online education.','-','Mohammed Ghouse L., C. Karthikeyan and R. Pangayar Selvi (2023). Mental Health of Students and their Academic Performance during COVID-19 Pandemic in Tamil Nadu. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 15(7): 147-150.'),(6982,'156','Efficacy of Foliar Spray of Micronutrients and Fruit Bagging on Physical and Yield Attributes of Guava (Psidium guajava L.) cv. Allahabad Safeda','Vipnesh Singh, R.S. Verma, Shatrunjay Yadav, Devi Darshan, Rajesh Kumar Meena and Dharmraj Meena ','Efficacy-of-Foliar-Spray-of-Micronutrients-and-Fruit-Bagging-on-Physical-and-Yield-Attributes-of-Guava-(Psidium-guajava-L.)-cv.-Allahabad-Safeda-RS-Verma-140.pdf','',1,'The study was targeted to enhance the physical and visual appearance of rainy season guava which ultimately increasing guava growers’ income. The present investigation entitled “Impact of foliar spray of nutrients and fruit bagging on growth yield and quality of guava (Psidium guajava L.) cv. Allahabad safeda” was conducted at Horticulture Research Farm-I, Babasaheb Bhimrao Ambedkar University Lucknow (U.P.), during rainy season of 2020-21 and 2021-22. Among the 51 guava trees with even size and vigour were selected and sprayed with various concentrations of different nutrients (Borax @ 0.1% and 0.2%), (ZnSO4 @ 0.2% and 0.4%) with and without borax (1.0%). The results revealed that the fruit physical characters i.e. fruit diameter (6.87cm), fruit length (6.39cm), fruit width (6.28cm), fruit weight (129.33g), fruit volume (128.96cc) were improved significantly with the use of Borax 0.2% + Zn 0.4% (T9) bagged with Foam bag + Brown paper + Blue polythene followed by fruits sprayed with (Borax 0.2 + Zinc 0.4% + Foam bag + News Paper + Blue Polyethylene bag) (T13) than the other treatments, while lowest was recorded under control. ','Bagging, Foliar spray, Guava, Physical attributes, Yield','Based on the information provided, it can be concluded that foliar spray of borax at a concentration of 0.2% and zinc at a concentration of 0.4% resulted in a significant response in guava plants. Additionally, when fruits were protected using foam bags, followed by yellow polyethylene bags and then brown paper bags, better physical parameters of the guava fruits were observed. Therefore, it is suggested that guava growers consider employing the foliar spray of borax and zinc at the specified concentrations and use foam bags, followed by yellow polyethylene bags and brown paper bags for fruit bagging. These practices may lead to improved fruit quality and overall yield for guava crops.','-','Vipnesh Singh, R.S. Verma, Shatrunjay Yadav, Devi Darshan, Rajesh Kumar Meena and Dharmraj Meena (2023). Efficacy of Foliar Spray of Micronutrients and Fruit Bagging on Physical and Yield Attributes of Guava (Psidium guajava L.) cv. Allahabad Safeda. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 15(4): 840-843.'),(6983,'161','Effect of Ohmic Heating Pre-treatment on Millable Oil Extraction and Physicochemical Properties of Mustard (Brassica juncea) Oil','Rajendra Hamad, Subir Kumar Chakraborty, Ajesh Kumar V. and Adinath Kate','Effect-of-Ohmic-Heating-Pre-treatment-on-Millable-Oil-Extraction-and-Physicochemical-Properties-of-Mustard-(Brassica-juncea)-Oil-Rajendra-Hamad-25.pdf','',1,'The pre-treatment of seeds plays a crucial role in enhancing oil extraction efficiency. Present study aimed to evaluate the effect of ohmic heating pre-treatment on the extraction of millable oil and physicochemical properties of the oil extracted from mustard seeds. The oil yield, peroxide value, acid value, free fatty acid (FFA) content, colour, refractive index, density and viscosity of the extracted oil were evaluated under varying electric field strengths (EFS) and exposure times. The results showed that ohmic heating pre-treatment significantly increased the oil yield compared to the untreated sample, with the highest recovery achieved at an EFS of 24.5 V/cm and an exposure time of 600 s. However, higher EFS levels and longer exposure times led to undesirable effects on the oil quality, as indicated by increased peroxide value, acid value and FFA content. The colour of the oil varied with EFS and exposure time, showing a decrease with higher EFS and an increase with longer exposure times. The refractive index, density, and viscosity of the oil remained relatively unchanged. These findings suggest the potential of ohmic heating as a pre-treatment strategy for enhancing oil extraction efficiency from mustard seeds, with minimal changes in terms of oil quality.','Ohmic heating, mustard seeds, oil extraction, physicochemical properties','This study investigated the effect of ohmic heating pre-treatment on the extraction of millable oil from mustard seeds and the physicochemical properties of extracted oil. The oil yield was significantly improved compared to the untreated sample, with the highest oil recovery (33.18%) obtained at an electric field strength (EFS) of 24.5 V/cm and an exposure time of 600 s. This increase in oil recovery can be attributed to the breakdown of cell membranes and the promotion of oil release through electroporation and thermal softening.\r\nHowever, the increase in EFS and longer exposure times during ohmic heating led to undesirable effects on the quality of the extracted oil. The peroxide value, which indicates the presence of hydroperoxides and primary oxidation components, increased significantly with higher EFS levels and exposure times. This suggests that higher EFS levels promote oxidation reactions and the formation of peroxides in the oil. Similarly, the acid value and free fatty acid (FFA) content of the oil increased with increased EFS and exposure time, indicating hydrolysis of triglycerides into free fatty acids.\r\nRegarding the colour of the extracted oil, an increase in EFS led to a significant decrease in colour value, while longer exposure times resulted in an increase. The refractive index, density, and viscosity of the oil were not significantly affected by the ohmic heating pre-treatment.\r\nOverall, ohmic heating pre-treatment improved the oil recovery from mustard seeds, but it also had some detrimental effects on the quality of the extracted oil, as indicated by increased peroxide value, acid value, FFA content, and variable colour changes.\r\n','-','Rajendra Hamad, Subir Kumar Chakraborty, Ajesh Kumar V. and Adinath Kate (2023). Effect of ohmic heating pre-treatment on millable oil extraction and physicochemical properties of mustard (Brassica juncea) oil. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 15(7): 151-156.'),(6984,'161','Impact of Spacing Variability on Pigeon Pea Genotypes: A Study of Growth Evaluation, Productivity, Quality, and Profitability','Kanik Kumar Bansal, Vijay Kumar, Meenakshi Attri, Shubham Jamwal, Anchal Kumari and Karamjot Kour','Impact-of-Spacing-Variability-on-Pigeon-Pea-Genotypes-A-Study-of-Growth-Evaluation,-Productivity,-Quality,-and-Profitability-Kanik-Kumar-Bansal-26.pdf','',1,'The field experiment was conducted to study the Pigeon Pea varieties AL 882 and Pusa Arhar 16 under different spacing in Amritsar region of Punjab during kharif 2019-2020 at Student’s Research Farm, Department of Agriculture, Khalsa College, Amritsar, Punjab. Two varieties V1 (Pusa Arhar 16) and V2 (AL 882) were tested under different spacing S1 (30 ×12.5), S2 (40 × 12.5), S3 (50 × 12.5), S4 (30 × 25), S5 (40×25), S6 (50×25cm) in Factorial Randomized Block Design and replicated thrice. The primary limitations in pigeon pea cultivation in Punjab are cultivar selection and optimal spacing. The results revealed that cv. AL 882 performed better under spacing 30×12.5 cm for growth parameters such as plant height and LAI whereas dry matter accumulation, crop growth rate and number of primary and secondary branches were significantly higher in spacing 50×25 cm. Quality parameters recorded non-significant results under different spacing and varieties. Among yield parameters, seed yield, harvest index, net returns and benefit cost ratio were maximum in wider spacing 50×25cm and narrow spacing 30×12.5 cm with cv. AL 882 and cv. Pusa Arhar 16, respectively. However, both varieties produced highest stover yield and biological yield under narrow spacing 30×12.5 cm.','Economics, Pigeon Pea, AL 882, Pusa Arhar 16, Spacing, Yield Attributes','With regard to the quantitative measure of seed yield, the recently introduced cultivar Pusa Arhar 16 exhibited superior performance when cultivated under a narrower spacing regime of 30 cm × 12.5 cm, in comparison to the cultivar AL 882 which performed better when cultivated under a wider spacing regime of 50 × 25 cm. Nonetheless, when assessing the economic profitability of the two cultivars in the specific agro-climatic conditions prevalent in Amritsar, it was observed that the cultivar AL 882 proved to be economically more viable than Pusa Arhar 16, taking into account the total net returns generated from both seed and stover.','-','Kanik Kumar Bansal, Vijay Kumar, Meenakshi Attri, Shubham Jamwal, Anchal Kumari and Karamjot Kour (2023). Impact of Spacing Variability on Pigeon Pea Genotypes: A Study of Growth Evaluation, Productivity, Quality, and Profitability. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 15(7): 157-163.'),(6985,'161','Personal, Socio-Economic and Psychological Characteristics of Horticulture Crop Growers and their Association with Cognitive, Perception and Adoption Level','Sai Tejashree G., Y. N. Shivalingaiah, Siddayya, K. P. Raghuprasad and Sagar S. Pujar ','Personal,-Socio-Economic-and-Psychological-Characteristics-of-Horticulture-Crop-Growers-and-their-Association-with-Cognitive,-Perception-and-Adoption-Level-Sai-Tejashree.-G-27.pdf','',1,'India is one of the leading producers of fruits and vegetables and ranks second in fruits and vegetable production globally. It is gaining importance in recent decades and contributes 38 per cent to India’s agricultural GDP from 16 per cent cropped area with a share of nearly 35 per cent of total exports of agricultural commodities of the country. The present study was conducted in Chikkaballapur and Kolar districts of eastern dry zone of Karnataka in the year 2021-2022 to study the personal, socio-economic and psychological characteristics of horticulture crop growers and their association with cognition level, perception and adoption level with a total sample size of 120 growers. Ex-post facto research design was adopted. Data was collected by using pre-tested personal interview method. Further, appropriate statistical tools were employed to analyse the collected data. The study revealed that, more than half (64.17 %) of the horticulture crop growers belonged to middle age. Nearly, one-third (30.00 %) of the horticulture crop growers had primary school education. More than two-third (68.33 %) of horticulture crop growers had medium family size. Nearly, two-fifth (38.33 %) of the horticulture crop growers were marginal farmers. 67.50 per cent of the growers belonged to high level of annual income (i.e., > 6,66,000). Whereas, majority of the horticulture crop growers had a medium level of experience in precision farming (42.50 %), area under precision farming (59.17 %), farm power possession (40.83 %), extension participation (40.00 %), social recognition (40.83 %), mass media exposure (37.50 %), extension contact (44.17 %), economic motivation (42.50 %), risk bearing ability (41.67 %), innovativeness (45.00 %). Further age, family size, landholding, annual income, area under precision farming, farm power possession, social recognition, risk bearing ability and innovativeness had non-significant association with cognitive level at 5 per cent level of significance.','Personal, socio-economic, association, Cognitive, Perception and Adoption Level','India being one of the leading agricultural producers globally has the largest arable lands worldwide, with over 155 million hectares. In the wake of climate change, depletion of natural resources and an imminent food crisis, India must move beyond aggressive farming i.e., should practice precision farming which can reverse the aftermaths of the Green Revolution and usher in an era of Evergreen Revolution. Rapid socio-economic changes in India, is creating ample of opportunities for the application of precision farming. Indian farmers based on their socio-economic situation should adopt technologies which are sustainable in practicing, intensifying productivity, and augment farm income. Precision farming can influence a paradigm shift in obsolete and aggressive farming practices to digitally transformed agricultural practices to feed an ever-growing global population.','-','Sai Tejashree G., Y. N. Shivalingaiah, Siddayya, K. P. Raghuprasad and Sagar S. Pujar (2023). Personal, Socio-Economic and Psychological Characteristics of Horticulture Crop Growers and their Association with Cognitive, Perception and Adoption Level. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 15(7): 164-171.'),(6986,'157','Factors Affecting Immediate Implant Placement in the Maxillary Anterior Region- A Narrative Review','Shah Rohit, Vaishnav Kalpesh, Mitra Dipika, Shetty Sarika, Agrawal Sneh and Surve Neha ','Factors-Affecting-Immediate-Implant-Placement-in-the-Maxillary-Anterior-Region-A-Narrative-Review-Shah-Rohit-239.pdf','',1,'When the esthetic zone of Maxillary anterior region is to be restored, the Clinician faces a plethora of challenges which include resorption and dehiscence of buccal bone, inadequate primary stability, non-ideal placement and positioning of the implant, need for augmentation, inadequate palatal bone for Anchorage, requirement of ideal esthetics and emergence profile. The challenges of Immediate implant placement are primarily due to inadequate preoperative evaluation, errors in case selection and unavailability of bony dimensional data leading to insufficient preparation and underestimating the need for augmentation especially in immediate implantation causing failures.\r\nAlso various studies have reported a wide variance in the dimensions of the alveolar bone amongst different ethnicities and populations as we all as age and gender groups. This underreported data and a lack of a standardized operating protocol can lead to compromised results when planning for immediate implant placements. There is a need to identify the parameters of the maxillary anterior segment in our local population with a special focus on the maxillary central incisor region (common site for immediate placement of dental implant) which determine the long term success of dental implants. \r\nHence measurement and management of the same is important especially in immediate implantology. Studying these variables will be clinically relevant and may be helpful in determining the success of immediate Implants in maxillary central incisors. The study attempted to identify all the parameters. The study highlighted the importance of measuring and management of the parameters.\r\n','Dental implant, Immediate placement, CBCT, Maxillary Central Incisors, Esthetics','Preoperative diagnosis and thorough treatment planning are therefore required, keeping the aforementioned factors in mind, especially when planning for immediate implant placement in the anterior esthetic zone, in order to ensure long- term stability and success.','-','Shah Rohit, Vaishnav Kalpesh, Mitra Dipika, Shetty Sarika, Agrawal Sneh and Surve Neha (2023). Factors affecting immediate implant placement in the maxillary anterior region- A narrative review. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 15(5): 1589-1594.'),(6987,'161','Effect of Enriched Vermicompost and Organic Foliar Spray on Growth and Yield of Prosomillet (Panicum miliaceum L.)','Sangeetha S.P. and M. Anandhavalli','Effect-of-Enriched-Vermicompost-and-Organic-Foliar-Spray-on-Growth-and-Yield-of-Prosomillet-(Panicum-miliaceum-L.)-Sangeetha-SP-28.pdf','',1,'Food and nutrition scientist show more interest towards millets and its health effects on combating lifestyle diseases and now millets are regaining its importance on achieving nutrition security. Proso millet is a true millet of history that can grow well in many agro-climatic conditions. Though the chemical fertilizer increases the plant growth and vigour, hence meets the food security of the world but chemically produced plant will accumulate in the human body as toxic chemicals, which are very dangerous. Various researchers have investigated the possibility of augmenting vermicomposts with additional nutrient-rich organics (enriched vermicompost) as a remedy to the poor nutrient content of organic manures. The liquid organic solutions are the source of macronutrients, important micro nutrients, vital amino acids, growth stimulating factors like IAA, gibberellic acid and favourable microorganisms. Hence, the present study was carried out to study the effect of enriched vermicompost and organic foliar spray on growth and yield of prosomillet at Tamil Nadu Agricultural University, Coimbatore, Tamil Nadu. The experiment was laid out in Randomized Block Design (RBD) with thirteen treatments and three replications. Treatments consists of T1: 100% Vermicompost, T2: 100% Enriched vermicompost, T3: 100% Enriched vermicompost + 3% Humic Acid, T4: 75% Enriched vermicompost + 3% Humic Acid, T5: 100% Enriched vermicompost + 3% Sea weed extract, T6: 75% Enriched vermicompost + 3% Sea weed extract, T7: 100% Enriched vermicompost + 3% PPFM, T8: 75% Enriched vermicompost + 3% PPFM, T9: 100% Enriched vermicompost + 3% Panchagavya, T10: 75% Enriched vermicompost + 3% Panchagavya, T11: 100% Enriched vermicompost + 3% Vermiwash, T12: 75% Enriched vermicompost + 3% Vermiwash, T13: Control (no manure and foliar spray). The study revealed that among the different doses of enriched vermicompost and organic foliar nutrition, 100% enriched vermicompost + 3% sea weed extract recorded higher growth parameters viz., plant height, LAI, number of tillers and yield attributes, grain yield (2172 kg/ha) and straw yield (4085 kg/ha) of prosomillet and it was comparable with 75% enriched vermicompost + 3% sea weed extract. The lowest grain (960 kg/ha) and straw yield (2100 kg/ha) were recorded in control without any vermicompost and foliar spray of nutrients which signifies the importance of application of enriched vermicompost and foliar nutrition in prosomillet.','Prosomillet, Enriched vermicompost, Foliar spray, Growth, Yield','It can be concluded from the result that the enriched vermicompost and organic foliar nutrition were significantly influenced the growth and yield of prosomillet and the treatment T5 (100% Enriched vermicompost + sea weed extract) was found the best treatment among all the treatments and it gave the maximum growth and yield, whereas it was comparable with T6 (75% Enriched vermicompost + Sea weed extract). On the basis of the result obtained after completion of present investigation it was concluded that application of 100% enriched vermiompost on equal N basis along with foliar spray of 3% seaweed extract increases growth parameters and yield attributes, grain yield of prosomillet.','-','Sangeetha S.P. and M. Anandhavalli (2023). Effect of Enriched Vermicompost and Organic Foliar Spray on Growth and Yield of Prosomillet (Panicum miliaceum L.). Biological Forum – An International Journal, 15(7): 172-176.'),(6988,'157','Histomorphological Alterations in Goat Testicular Tissues by Cyfluthrin and Its Restoration by Vitamin E','A.K. Sharma and Ambika Gandhi','Histomorphological-Alterations-in-Goat-Testicular-Tissues-by-Cyfluthrin-and-Its-Restoration-by-Vitamin-E-AK-Sharma-240.pdf','',1,'The aim of this study was to reveal the impact of cyfluthrin on goat testicular tissue and its restoration by vitamin E. The culture of testicular tissue was done for 4 and 8 hours. Cyfluthrin was given to testicular tissues in two concentrations, i.e., 100 μg/ml and 200 μg/ml, while vitamin E (0.1 M/ml) was given to testicular tissues having the above-mentioned concentrations of cyfluthrin to study its mitigating effects. Cyfluthrin has been found to cause severe damage to testicular cells, as there was a decrease in the number of spermatozoa and spermatids, vacuolization of the lumen of the germ cells, and decreased sperm lumen in cyfluthrin-treated groups. The addition of vitamin E reduced the number of apoptotic cells, vacuolization, and desquamation of germ cells in the lumen and pyknotic cells. In comparison to the treatment group, the sperm population increased and the shape of the seminiferous tubules improved. Vitamin E, an antioxidant, prevented cyfluthrin-induced testicular damage in vitro and restored fertility in goat testes exposed to the drug. The findings of this study will be extremely helpful in assessing the potential health risks of cyfluthrin in domestic animals and will also be used as an in vitro model for research on the effects of xenobiotics on mammals and will have implications in determining the harmful effects that can cause reproductive damage. The outcomes of this study will support the use of vitamin E in the physiological treatment of negative effects brought on by cyfluthrin exposure in ruminants.','Spermatozoa, cyfluthrin, Testis, spermatids, Vitamin E','Cyfluthrin has a significant impact on mammals\' reproductive system, impairing spermatogenesis, according to the findings of this study. The testis\' normal structure significantly improved after Vitamin E administration. To lessen the harmful effects of pesticides and insecticides, vitamin E supplementation is suggested. Cyfluthrin\'s negative effects on domestic animals and their amelioration by antioxidants like Vitamin E will be assessed using the findings of this study, which will also be used to develop strategies and approaches to manage its negative effects.','-','A.K. Sharma and Ambika Gandhi (2023). Histomorphological Alterations in Goat Testicular Tissues by Cyfluthrin and Its Restoration by Vitamin E. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 15(5): 1595-1597.'),(6989,'161','Thrips parvispinus (Karny): Pest of concern to Indian farmers in Chilli – A Review','Manisha Yadav, Balbir Singh, Geeta Devi, Pooja Kumari, Neeraj Kumar and Priyal Choudhary ','Thrips-parvispinus-(Karny)-Pest-of-concern-to-Indian-farmers-in-Chilli-–-A-Review-Manisha-Yadav-29.pdf','',1,'Thrips are the most prevalent species of sucking pests that attack a range of horticulture crops and spread dangerous plant viruses. As a result of changing crop production patterns, increased pesticide use, and climate change, there are reports of a thrips outbreak in a number of locations. The global range of Thrips parvispinus (Karny) (Thysanoptera: Thripidae) has dramatically expanded over the past two decades. In addition to India, it is now known to occur in France, Greece, Hawaii, Mauritius, Reunion, Spain, Tanzania, and the Netherlands. Initial record of T. parvispinus was reported on papaya in Bengaluru in 2015. After that many southern states (Andhra Pradesh, Karnataka, and Telangana) have been reported an infestation of T. parvispinus particularly on chilli crops, inflicting 50–80% damage. Being a polyphagous species, infestations of beans, eggplant, papaya, chillies, peppers, potatoes, shallots, Ficus, Anthurium, Chrysanthemum, Dahlia, Dipladenia, and Gardenia and strawberries have been documented. T. parvispinus undergoes five phases of development and completes their life cycle in 13–15 days. Larvae suck sap from the underside of leaves, whilst adults primarily colonise on flowers and the underside of leaves. The production of fruits is decreased by infestation, which results in high flower drop. Several IPM approaches like timely planting, mulching, balanced use of nitrogenous fertilizers, installation of blue sticky traps, spraying of biopesticides and microbial pesticides and some insecticides like Spirotetramat @ 160g/acre, tolfenpyrad 15 EC @ 1 ml/L of water, spinetoram 11.7 SC @1 ml/L and many more recommended by CIB&RC. The review presents the status of T. parvispinus at national and global level, including its identification, taxonomic status, distribution and host range, biology and lifecycle, nature of damage, feeding behaviour and various management strategies, in the context of the seriousness of the damage caused by the invasive pest in India in the recent past. This review also discusses the importance of exploring various IPM techniques for the control of this invasive thrips.','Thrips, T. parvispinus, chilli, polyphagous, pest status, life cycle, integrated pest management','The pest, Thrips parvispinus is known as a global pest and it is reported across the worldwide. The presence of this invasive pest on ornamental plants meant for export poses major risks and causes quarantine authority’s great concern. Systematic surveillance of T. parvispinus in other regions of India is also necessary since it may become a pest or vector. Thrips are better managed when a community-based strategy to pest control is used, especially when the infestation is spreading widely. In order to create insecticide resistance management techniques as part of IPM, baseline toxicological data describing the pest\'s susceptibility to various insecticides indicated for thrips management must be developed. Understanding the causes of the T. parvispinus epidemic caused by shifting climatic conditions as well as other ecological and genetic factors aids in being ready in case similar circumstances arise in the future. Overall, it is advised to use an integrated pest management strategy to control T. parvispinus, which includes a variety of eco-friendly tools like host plant resistance, biological control options like entomopathogens, physical and mechanical control measures, and the use of eco-friendly insecticide molecules. ','-','Manisha Yadav, Balbir Singh, Geeta Devi, Pooja Kumari, Neeraj Kumar and Priyal Choudhary (2023). Thrips parvispinus (Karny): Pest of concern to Indian farmers in Chilli – A Review. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 15(7): 177-184.'),(6990,'161','Comparative Assessment of the Developed Animal Drawn broad bed Former cum Planting System with Existing Planting Methods for Sowing of Pea Crop','Vikas Pagare, Umesh Chandra Dubey, Aseeya Wahid and Abhijit Khadatkar','Comparative-Assessment-of-the-Developed-Animal-Drawn-broad-bed-Former-cum-Planting-System-with-Existing-Planting-Methods-for-Sowing-of-Pea-Crop-Vikas-Pagare-30.pdf','',1,'In the current landscape, tractor power dominates in most areas. However, mechanized agricultural farming, driven by draught animal power, is still used in some parts of the country. Agricultural practices mainly performed in hilly and remote terrain often fail to facilitate early planting due to waterlogging, adversely affecting crops. Therefore, broad bed farming is an effective way to enhance crop growth. Present study assessed the performance of an animal-drawn broad bed former, along with the attachment of sowing mechanisms like a ferti drill and inclined plate planting mechanism for the pea crop. Pea crop was chosen for its vital role in improving crop growth and enhancing fertility through nitrogen fixation as part of crop rotation practice. Uniformity was observed in inclined plate planting along with broad bed cultivation. The machine performed better in the broad bed system with inclined plate planting system. The operational speed attained was lower at 0.49 km/h, and the draft was higher at 780 N due to the additional attachment of the broad bed former. Nevertheless, the germination rate was higher than flatbed cultivated treatments. The yield of the pea crop was also higher at 1.8 t/ha under this treatment, and irrigation water savings were observed to be 7.3% more than flatbed planting. Despite the maximum cost of cultivation being 640 `/ha under the broad bed former with inclined plate planting, the economic advantages of water saving and higher yield compensate for the additional cultivation expenses.','Animal drawn, broad bed farming. Inclined plate, Planting, Flatbed cultivation, Seed drill','Adopting an effective cultivation system is a crucial factor that directly or indirectly impacts various aspects, such as the overall farming system\'s machine performance, yield, and cost efficiency. The study among the selected treatments revealed that the broad bed system, combined with the inclined plate planting mechanism, proved to be suitable. This is attributed to the adequate drainage facilities offered by the broad bed system, which resulted in a higher germination rate of the pea crop. Specifically, a germination rate of 72% was observed under treatment involving an animal-drawn broad bed former combined with an inclined plant planter. Additionally, this treatment showed reduced weed competition. Although the cost of cultivation was found to be higher, the benefits of water savings in irrigation (7.3%) and increased yield (1.8 t/ha) provided economic advantages that offset the additional cultivation expenses.','-','Vikas Pagare, Umesh Chandra Dubey, Aseeya Wahid and Abhijit Khadatkar (2023). Comparative Assessment of the Developed Animal Drawn broad bed Former cum Planting System with Existing Planting Methods for Sowing of Pea Crop. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 15(7): 185-192.'),(6991,'159','Enhancing the Nutritional quality of Dahi by incorporating sprouted Green Gram Flour','Jesly K., Mohammed Arshath, Rahila M.P. and Archana Chandran ','Enhancing-the-Nutritional-quality-of-Dahi-by-incorporating-sprouted-Green-Gram-Flour-Rahila-MP-107.pdf','',1,'Dahi is a traditional Indian yogurt made by fermenting milk with live cultures. It is known for its creamy texture, tangy flavor and probiotic properties, making it a popular ingredient in Indian cuisine and a staple in many households. The study focused on evaluating the physicochemical properties of dahi, added with sprouted green gram, including moisture, ash, protein, fat, dietary fiber, titratable acidity, total solids, vitamin C, and water holding capacity. Microbial analysis was also conducted to ensure safety. The results demonstrated that dahi samples supplemented with sprouted green gram flour exhibited lower moisture content but higher levels of ash, protein, dietary fiber and vitamin C compared to the control sample. Additionally, the water holding capacity was enhanced in the dahi with sprouted green gram flour (SGF added dahi 94.5 ± 0.07% and control dahi 89.17 ± 0.03). The microbial analysis confirmed that both the control and sprouted green gram flour dahi samples were safe for consumption. These findings suggest that incorporating sprouted green gram flour into dahi can improve its nutritional value and water holding capacity. This research could potentially provide a healthier alternative for consumers seeking a nutrient-rich yogurt option, thereby promoting better dietary choices.','Dahi, Green gram, Dietary fibre, Vitamin C, Water holding capacity','The physicochemical analysis of the dahi samples revealed several significant differences between the control dahi and the dahi incorporated with sprouted green gram flour (SGF). The dahi with SGF had a lower moisture content, which can be attributed to the presence of solid particles, including high fiber and protein. The ash content of the SGF dahi increased significantly, indicating a higher mineral content present in sprouted green gram. The protein content of the dahi with SGF also showed a significant increase, reflecting the higher protein content of green gram, which is further enhanced during the sprouting process. The fat content did not differ significantly between the two types of dahi, likely because the lower fat content of green gram does not contribute significantly to the fat content of the dahi samples. The dahi with SGF exhibited a significant dietary fiber content, while the control dahi had no dietary fiber content. This can be attributed to the high fiber content of green gram. The acidity of the dahi samples did not differ significantly, as the low level of SGF did not contribute acidity. The vitamin C content slightly increased in the dahi with SGF, potentially due to the addition of green gram, which contains ascorbic acid. Finally, the SGF-added dahi demonstrated a higher water holding capacity, which may be attributed to the water retention by swollen polydextrose and increased bond between the milk gel network. Overall, these findings highlight the positive effects of incorporating sprouted green gram flour into dahi, enhancing its nutritional profile and water holding capacity.','-','Jesly K., Mohammed Arshath, Rahila M.P. and Archana Chandran (2023). Enhancing the Nutritional quality of Dahi by incorporating sprouted Green Gram Flour. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 15(6): 697-700.'),(6992,'160','India\'s Quest for Soft Power: Challenges in South Asia','Subhra Pratim Roy and Tuhin Chitrakar','1 Indias-Quest-for-Soft-Power-Challenges-in-South-Asia-Subhra-Pratim-Roy-1.pdf','',1,'Indians were predicted to rise to prominence in the twenty-first century. The expansion of India\'s economic and military infrastructure since 1991 was reflected in the country\'s century-old claims. When India completed the world\'s largest civil evacuation during Operation Rahat in 2004, it marked a significant improvement in the country\'s soft power capabilities. Implementing India\'s soft power strategy across the region, on the other hand, is a difficult task. Developing a digital & public diplomacy infrastructure can assist India in overcoming its soft power limitations. Disputes over Indian leadership in South Asia threaten peace, security, and integration. With hard power failing, India has turned to soft power to assert itself. In order to attract new neighbours, it is now trying to rebuild a positive image in the area. Current economic reform efforts in India and the effectiveness of soft power in this location are summarised in this essay. Despite its flaws, this method holds a lot of promise. As a result, the relationship between the South and the North may be altered. ','Soft power in India, Foreign policy of India, India’s rise, Smart power','Soft power is critical in today\'s global politics, regarding its practical and theoretical constraints. In terms of alternative political, economic, as well as cultural models for the rest of the world, only India is capable. Soft power is a relatively new phenomenon in India, and it has only recently started to be implemented. Internal reforms are required to address India\'s developmental, sociological, and political shortcomings. In South Asia, soft power is undeniable.\r\nAlthough further research is needed to fully understand India\'s soft power in this domain, this study can derive three findings. First, India\'s regional policy appears to include soft power aspects. Because harsh power is ineffectual and lowering suspicion and strengthening acceptance of its regional leadership role is critical to achieving regional and global goals. To cooperate economically and diplomatically, India may need to ease its smaller neighbours\' anxieties. Public diplomacy, Economic cooperation, cultural and development cooperation, and other forms of soft power are prioritised in this approach. India\'s current South Asian propaganda campaign is a strategic decision.\r\nAnother sign that this soft power tactic may work is that even though major concerns remain unresolved, the new policy has helped improve relations. As a result of its hegemonic positions in Nepal, Afghanistan, Sri Lanka, as well as Bangladesh, India has a great benefit in attaining its foreign policy goals. This strategy worked in Afghanistan, where India gained respect for its civilian participation. An aggressive cultural as well as public diplomacy strategy is required in this context. It ought to strengthen people-to-people ties, increase trade and investment, and educate its neighbours about democratic principles. Through the SAARC project, India may also play a larger role in regional collaboration. Surprisingly, societies and ruling elites regard India differently. The public\'s growing optimism contrasts sharply with the government\'s scepticism and hostility. India\'s soft power strategy may help close the gap. Soft power is a long-term strategy with visible benefits. Regional democracy will make it difficult for national leaders to ignore public sentiment and attack India. South Asians\' faith in shared stability and peace is increasing as a result of India\'s soft power. India must persuade a greater number of people in the region that economic progress is a good thing. In addition, Pakistan is not included in India\'s soft power strategy in South Asia. Delays in addressing Indian-Pakistani tensions jeopardise regional cooperation and South Asian peace and security. Containing Pakistani public scepticism and suspicion of India. Indian cultural institutes, Indian Studies Chairs, ambitious scholarship programmes, new development partnership efforts, visa liberalisation and promotion of academic and corporate links are all needed to directly reach Pakistani citizens. Ineffective and unfair, labelling all Pakistanis as potential terrorists Encouraging Pakistan to see India as a trusted partner and friendly neighbour [2].\r\n','-','-'),(6993,'157','Optimization of various Physiochemical Parameters to Enhance 2- Naphthalene Sulfonate Biodegradation by an indigenous Bacterial isolate C2','Prince Dhammi and Harvinder Singh Saini','Optimization-of-various-Physiochemical-Parameters-to-Enhance-2--Naphthalene-Sulfonate-Biodegradation-by-an-indigenous-Bacterial-isolate-C2-Harvinder-Singh-Saini-241.pdf','',1,'2-Naphthalene sulfonate (2-NS), a textile dye intermediate, is highly toxic and has limited biodegradability which poses a threat to aquatic life and human health. Enrichment of sludge from treatment plant receiving textile effluent resulted in isolation of 2-NS degrading bacteria, designated as Isolate C2. To achieve maximum biodegradation activity, optimization of different factors such as growth media, 2-NS concentrations, pH, incubation temperature, inoculum level, and time interval was performed using one factor at a time approach. The best degradation ability (100%) was obtained in 8h, when cells were grown in Sulfur free Mineral Salt Medium using OD540 1.0, pH 7 at 30°C. Isolate C2 was versatile enough to show growth and degradation at 2-NS concentrations ranging from 25-200 mg/L. In nutshell, the study revealed that 2-NS was efficiently consumed by C2 as the sole carbon source and therefore is as an important tool in the bioremediation of wastewater effluent.','Biodegradation, Optimization, 2- Naphthalene sulfonate, textile effluent, textile dye intermediate, degrading bacteria, physiochemical parameters','This study thus highlights the significant effect of various physiochemical parameters on the degradation potential of isolate C2. The isolate exhibited an enhanced degradative capacity (100 mg/L of 2-NS in 8h) under these optimized conditions and was able to use 2-Naphthalene sulfonate as a sole source of carbon and energy. Further, the HPLC analysis of transformed sample (at 8h) revealed the complete degradation of 2-Naphthalene sulfonate. Therefore, the study concludes that the polluted sites could act as a source for isolation of indigenous potential degraders which could assist the scientific community to tackle the environmental haphazard created by such persistent organic pollutants. ','-','Prince Dhammi and Harvinder Singh Saini (2023). Optimization of various Physiochemical Parameters to Enhance 2- Naphthalene Sulfonate Biodegradation by an indigenous Bacterial isolate C2. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 15(5): 1598-1604.'),(6994,'161','Effect of Shatavari (Asparagus racemosus) Root Meal Supplementation on Growth Performance and Hematological Attributes of Broiler Chickens','R.K. Verma, P.S. Pramanik, K.D. Singh, Abhishek Kumar, Shailendra Singh, Pankaj Kumar Maurya and Dharam Prakash Shrivastava ','Effect-of-Shatavari-(Asparagus-racemosus)-Root-Meal-Supplementation-on-Growth-Performance-and-Hematological-Attributes-of-Broiler-Chickens-RK-Verma-31.pdf','',1,'In the commercial poultry industry, antibiotics are applied for various intents, including feed as growth promoters that elaborate antimicrobial resistance (AMR). We\'re facing challenge to disrate AMR without affecting the growth performance. The goal of the current study was to find out how Shatavari (Asparagus racemosus) root meal supplementation affects broiler chicken growth and haematological characteristics. At the Livestock Farm Complex, C.V.Sc.&A.H., Kumarganj, Ayodhya, U.P., the study was conducted for 42 days. One control group and three treatment groups, each with 50 chicks, were given the following treatments: TC (0% Shatavari root powder), T1 (0.5% Shatavari root powder), T2 (1% Shatavari root powder), and T3 (1.5% Shatavari root powder). A completely randomized design (CRD) was used to divide each group into two replicates of 25 chicks each. At the conclusion of the trial, T2 had the largest body weight (2547.76g), followed by T1, TC, and T3. The TC group exhibited the highest overall feed intake (4339.64g), followed by T1, T2, and T3. T2 and T1 had the lowest FCR (1.58), which was followed by T3 and TC. In comparison to the TC, the mean Hb concentration of the T2, T3, and T1 groups of birds was considerably greater (p 0.05). Birds in the T2 group had considerably greater PCV% than those in the TC, T1, and T3 groups. In comparison to the treatment groups, the TLC of TC was considerably (p 0.05) lower. For the groups TC, T1, T2, and T3, the H:L ratios were determined to be 0.47, 0.49, 0.54, and 0.52, respectively. Therefore, it can be inferred that broiler chickens growth performance and haematological parameters are much higher when 1% Shatavari (Asparagus racemosus) root powder supplementation is added to their commercial diet.','Shatavari root powder, Supplementation, Broiler birds, FCR, haematological attributes','Investigating the effect of Shatavari (Asparagus racemosus) root powder supplementation on broiler chickens performance it may be concluded that inclusion of 1% Shatavari (Asparagus racemosus) root powder supplementation on commercial diet is significantly higher for growth performance and haematological parameters of broiler chickens.','-','R.K. Verma, P.S. Pramanik, K.D. Singh, Abhishek Kumar, Shailendra Singh, Pankaj Kumar Maurya and Dharam Prakash Shrivastava (2023). Effect of Shatavari (Asparagus racemosus) root meal supplementation on growth performance and hematological attributes of broiler chickens. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 15(7): 193-198.'),(6995,'159','Screening and Identification of Ligninolytic Enzyme Producing Bacteria for the Degradation of Polyethylene Glycol','R. Janani and R. Amutha ','Screening-and-Identification-of-Ligninolytic-Enzyme-Producing-Bacteria-for-the-Degradation-of-Polyethylene-Glycol-R.-Janani-108.pdf','',1,'In the commercial poultry industry, antibiotics are applied for various intents, including feed as growth promoters that elaborate antimicrobial resistance (AMR). We\'re facing challenge to disrate AMR without affecting the growth performance. The goal of the current study was to find out how Shatavari (Asparagus racemosus) root meal supplementation affects broiler chicken growth and haematological characteristics. At the Livestock Farm Complex, C.V.Sc.&A.H., Kumarganj, Ayodhya, U.P., the study was conducted for 42 days. One control group and three treatment groups, each with 50 chicks, were given the following treatments: TC (0% Shatavari root powder), T1 (0.5% Shatavari root powder), T2 (1% Shatavari root powder), and T3 (1.5% Shatavari root powder). A completely randomized design (CRD) was used to divide each group into two replicates of 25 chicks each. At the conclusion of the trial, T2 had the largest body weight (2547.76g), followed by T1, TC, and T3. The TC group exhibited the highest overall feed intake (4339.64g), followed by T1, T2, and T3. T2 and T1 had the lowest FCR (1.58), which was followed by T3 and TC. In comparison to the TC, the mean Hb concentration of the T2, T3, and T1 groups of birds was considerably greater (p 0.05). Birds in the T2 group had considerably greater PCV% than those in the TC, T1, and T3 groups. In comparison to the treatment groups, the TLC of TC was considerably (p 0.05) lower. For the groups TC, T1, T2, and T3, the H:L ratios were determined to be 0.47, 0.49, 0.54, and 0.52, respectively. Therefore, it can be inferred that broiler chickens growth performance and haematological parameters are much higher when 1% Shatavari (Asparagus racemosus) root powder supplementation is added to their commercial diet.','Polyethylene glycol (PEG), polyethylene glycol (PEG), lignin peroxidase, laccase, Pseudomonas stutzeri','The ligninolytic isolates demonstrated the ability to degrade polyethylene glycol (PEG). The ligninolytic isolates, which possess enzymes capable of breaking down lignin, showed promise in breaking down PEG as well. The degradation of PEG by ligninolytic isolates is significant as it offers a potential solution for the remediation of PEG-contaminated environments. The ability of these isolates to break down PEG suggests that they have the potential to be utilized in bioremediation strategies or waste treatment processes involving PEG-contamination. Further research is needed to fully understand the mechanisms by which ligninolytic isolates degrade PEG and optimize the degradation process. Overall, the findings of this study highlight the potential of ligninolytic isolates as a natural and efficient means for the degradation of polyethylene glycol, contributing to the development of eco-friendly solutions for PEG waste management.','-','R. Janani and R. Amutha (2023). Screening and Identification of Ligninolytic Enzyme Producing Bacteria for the Degradation of Polyethylene Glycol. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 15(6): 701-706.'),(6996,'161','Response of Organic and Inorganic Source of Nutrient on Growth, Uptake and Quality of Mustard (Brassica juncea L.)','Rameshwer Gora, Seema Pooniyan, Sachin Kumar and P.K. Singh','Response-of-Organic-and-Inorganic-Source-of-Nutrient-on-Growth,-Uptake-and-Quality-of-Mustard-(Brassica-juncea-L.)-Rameshwer-Gora-32.pdf','',1,'The effect of vermicompost and nutrients with the bio-fertilisers on the quality, growth, and uptake of nutrients by mustard (Brassica juncea L.) was investigated in a field trial at the Agronomy Research Farm of Rashtriya Kisan College, Shamli (U.P.), during the rabi season 2019–20. A RBD design with three replications was used to set up the experimental unit. Use of treatments during research work of mustard var. Laxmi consisting of nine treatment combinations, viz., control (T0), 75 % RDF (T1), 100 % RDF (T2), vermicompost @ 2 t ha-1 (T3), FYM 10 t ha-1 + azotobacter (T4), 75 % RDF + vermicompost (2 t ha-1) + Azotobacter (T5), 100 % RDF + vermicompost (2 t ha-1) + azotobacter (T6), 75 percent RDF + FYM 10 t ha-1 + Azotobacter (T7) and 100 % RDF + FYM 10 t ha-1 + azotobacter (T8). The application of 100 % RDF + vermicompost (2 t ha-1) + azotobacter (T6) was found to maximise plant height, dry matter accumulation, number of branches plant-1, nitrogen, phosphorus, potassium content and uptake in seed and stover, oil content, and oil yield and remaining treatment T2, T5, T7, and T8 at par. The soil microflora derives its energy from organic matter, and the amount of organic carbon in the soil is regarded as a measure of its health. INM is a flexible approach that aims to maximise farmers\' profits while minimising the use of chemical nutrient sources.','Mustard, vermicompost, azotobacter, organic matter','According to the study\'s findings, different sources of nutrient treatments significantly improved the growth, yield and quality of mustard. It can be concluded that the application of synthetic fertilizer in combination with organic manures and biofertilizer was the most suitable for mustard.','-','Rameshwer Gora, Seema Pooniyan, Sachin Kumar and P.K. Singh (2023). Response of Organic and Inorganic Source of Nutrient on Growth, Uptake and Quality of Mustard (Brassica juncea L.). Biological Forum – An International Journal, 15(7): 199-204.'),(6997,'161','Estimation of Plant Growth Promoting Traits of Bacterial Endophytes Isolated from Potato Plants','G.S. Srikanth, R. Mythra, Jagadeesh U., Nakul Kale, Bhagyashree, K.B. and K. Nagaraju ','Estimation-of-Plant-Growth-Promoting-Traits-of-Bacterial-Endophytes-Isolated-from-Potato-Plants-GS-Srikanth-33.pdf','',1,'Sustainable agriculture is the need of the hour and endophytes offer an exciting prospect towards this. Many biotic and abiotic stresses hinder the plant growth ultimately resulting in yield loss. In the present study, the bacterial endophytes were isolated and were evaluated for their plant growth promotional (PGP) activities. Ten better performing isolates were selected among the 62 bacterial endophytes isolated from the potato plants. Later, these 10 isolates (PEL-4, PEL-5, PEL-6, PEL-8, PES-5, PER-6, PER-10, PEL-13, PEL-20 and PEL-22) were subjected to both qualitative and quantitative estimation for various PGP traits under in vitro conditions. The results showed that the strains PEL-4, PES-5, PEL-22 were superior among all the isolates. The isolate PEL-22 was the most efficient isolate which showed highest per cent of siderophore production (80.88 %), phosphate solubilisation (35.17 µg/ml) and potassium solubilisation (3.67 cm). Only 3 isolates, PEL-4, PES-5 and PEL-22 were tested positive for HCN production and 4 isolates were positive for ammonia production and these three isolates were observed to be able to produce PGP traits encouraging plant growth and yield increase.','Bacterial endophytes, Sustainable agriculture, Plant growth promotional traits','Endophytic bacteria, which have been shown to be plant growth-promoting or pathogen-suppressing or to activate plant defence systems can benefit plants through enhanced resistance to biotic and abiotic stresses and plant growth promotion. Endophytes perform various activities such production of siderophores, phytohormones secretion, nutrient assimilation like phosphate and potassium solubilisation, HCN and ammonia production, etc., which not only help the plants for their growth and development but also help them overcome a various range of biotic stresses by combating disease causing pathogens. Bacterial endophytes are having novel bioactive compounds and secondary metabolites that can be potential source of antimicrobials for sustainable pest and disease management. Exploring the wide diversity of endophytes could provide new antagonists with different abilities to control plant pathogens. Incorporating a plant growth promoting (PGP) endophyte not only makes nutrient supply more affordable, but it also enhances plant health, making crop cultivation an environmentally friendly choice. ','-','G.S. Srikanth, R. Mythra, Jagadeesh U., Nakul Kale, Bhagyashree, K.B. and K. Nagaraju (2023). Estimation of Plant Growth Promoting Traits of Bacterial Endophytes Isolated from Potato Plants. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 15(7): 205-209.'),(6998,'161','Nanopesticides: Revolutionizing Pest Management with Nanotechnology','Kasturi Sarmah, Rahul Borah, Sushruta Boruah and Devayani Sarmah','Nanopesticides-Revolutionizing-Pest-Management-with-Nanotechnology-Kasturi-Sarmah-34.pdf','',1,'Nanotechnology has emerged as a promising field with the potential to revolutionize various industries, including agriculture. In recent years, nanopesticides have gained significant attention as a novel approach to pest management. This review paper provides a comprehensive overview of nanopesticides and their impact on pest control practices. Nanopesticides refer to pesticide formulations that incorporate nanotechnology to enhance their properties and performance. The paper discusses the advantages of nanopesticides, including increased targeting efficiency, controlled release mechanisms, and improved efficacy against pests. It delves into the various nanomaterials used as nanopesticides, such as nanoparticles, nanocapsules, and various other nanoformulations, highlighting their unique characteristics and modes of action. The review also addresses the potential environmental and health implications associated with nanopesticide use, along with regulatory considerations. Furthermore, the paper explores the various other applications of nanotechnology in the field of agriculture such as soil remediation, water management, crop management, pesticide detection etc. It emphasizes the need for further research to evaluate the long-term effects of nanopesticides on ecosystems and non-target organisms. Additionally, the review paper discusses the challenges and barriers in the commercialization and adoption of nanopesticides, including cost-effectiveness and public acceptance. The paper concludes by emphasizing the potential of nanotechnology to revolutionize pest management by providing effective and sustainable solutions. It calls for continued research, collaboration among stakeholders, and the development of appropriate regulatory frameworks to ensure the responsible and safe implementation of nanopesticides in agriculture.','Advanced pest management strategies, controlled release, nanoencapsulation, nanoformulation, nanopesticide, nanosensors, sustainable agriculture','The use of nanopesticides presents both benefits and potential concerns. Nanotechnology offers promising opportunities to enhance the efficiency and effectiveness of pesticide applications in agriculture and pest control. Nanopesticides have the potential to improve targeted delivery, reduce environmental impact, increase crop yields, and minimize health risks to humans and non-target organisms. However, it is essential to address the potential concerns associated with nanopesticides. The long-term environmental impacts of nanoparticles and their potential accumulation in soil and water systems need thorough investigation. The effects on non-target organisms, including beneficial insects, soil microorganisms, and aquatic life, require comprehensive assessment to ensure ecosystem health and biodiversity preservation. Another important consideration is the potential human health risks associated with exposure to nanoparticles, both during the manufacturing process and after application. Extensive research on the toxicity, bioavailability, and fate of nanopesticides is necessary to ensure their safe use. Regulatory frameworks should be established to assess the risks and benefits of nanopesticides and ensure their responsible development and deployment. Strict monitoring, labeling requirements, and adherence to safety guidelines are essential to protect human health and the environment. In summary, while nanopesticides hold great promise for improving agricultural practices and reducing the negative impacts of conventional pesticides, it is crucial to proceed with caution. Continued research, risk assessment, and regulatory oversight are necessary to maximize the benefits of nanopesticides while minimizing their potential adverse effects.','-','Kasturi Sarmah, Rahul Borah, Sushruta Boruah and Devayani Sarmah (2023). Nanopesticides: Revolutionizing Pest Management with Nanotechnology. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 15(7): 210-218.'),(6999,'161','Novel Approach Technologies in Control of Postharvest Losses in Sweet Orange and their Treatments','Mamidi Vaishnavi Reddy, Ab Waheed Wani, Rahul R. Rodge, Tharun R., T. Vamshi, Irfan Gani, G.I. Hassan and S.Q. Dar ','Novel-Approach-Technologies-in-Control-of-Postharvest-Losses-in-Sweet-Orange-and-their-Treatments-Rahul-R-Rodge-35.pdf','',1,'Fruits are an essential part of our nutrition. Citrus spp., which are mostly found in the Mediterranean basin are the most common fruit consumed by people. In today\'s environment, postharvest quality retention in supply chain management is a major concern and a critical issue. Fruit continues to breathe after being picked, and the high temperatures in the field and during transportation to pack houses make this process difficult. The fruit shelf life is shortened as a result of the spread of pathogens, which is harmful to the quality of fruits after harvest. Postharvest losses can result in significant waste, accounting for 30 to 50% of the overall crop, and are mostly brought on by infections and metabolic abnormalities of fruits. The right handling, treatment, storage, and transportation of harvested food determine the postharvest technological innovation\'s primary objectives of maintaining quality and prolonging shelf life. To further reduce the accumulation of artificial pesticide residues on fruit surface and the implications of fungicide waste disposal, new, eco - friendly methods must be used. This review critically evaluates the most efficient and ecologically friendly techniques, as well as cutting edge post-harvest processing and storage technologies in citrus fruits variety sweet orange.','Postharvest loss, chilling injury, pathogen proliferation, microorganisms and senescence','There is a risk to human and environmental health as well as considerable financial expenses now that pathogen resistance has been connected to the use of synthetic fungicides to minimize pathogen infection. Finding alternative, secure control methods is therefore given more significance. To trigger a fruit\'s inherent defenses is one such strategy. An effective approach for assessing as well as grading the chilling and freezing damages in orange was the forward-scattering biospeckle imaging method. Utilizing edible coatings and more modern techniques, such as layer-by-layer coatings and their synergistic effects, are far more effective at increasing the shelf life of food. Certain post-harvest illnesses and disinfections have also been reported to be treated by essential oils and plant extracts. The phenols, antioxidants, and senescence delaying effects of LED light on fruits have improved in recent years. It is also possible to apply nanocomposite materials and antibacterial compounds to the surface. By using bioagents to activate natural antagonistic mechanisms, diseases can be effectively managed while preserving ecological equilibrium. Some recently developed technologies, such as cold plasma and irradiation, can reduce pest infestations in quarantine areas while simultaneously improving product quality. Therefore, the combined benefits of these technologies may reduce postharvest losses and maintain quality during supply chain management. ','-','Mamidi Vaishnavi Reddy, Ab Waheed Wani, Rahul R. Rodge, Tharun R., T. Vamshi, Irfan Gani, G.I. Hassan and S.Q. Dar (2023). Novel Approach Technologies in Control of Postharvest Losses in Sweet Orange and their Treatments. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 15(7): 219-228.'),(7000,'157','Notes on the distribution and range extension of the black-lined sleeper Goby, Valenciennea helsdingenii (Bleeker, 1858) (Gobiiformes: Gobiidae) in Gulf of Mannar and Palk Bay, India','V. Selvakumar, S. Subburaman, R. Saravanan, D. Nagarajan and J. Nagarajan','Notes-on-the-distribution-and-range-extension-of-the-black-lined-sleeper-Goby-Valenciennea-helsdingenii-(Bleeker-1858)-(Gobiiformes-Gobiidae)-in-Gulf-of-Mannar-and-Palk-Bay-India-S-Subburaman-242.pdf','',1,'The present paper documents the occurrence of the black-lined sleeper Goby, Valenciennea helsdingenii (Bleeker, 1858) from northern Gulf of Mannar and south Palk Bay, southeast coast of India. This species is characterized by a body with two dark stripes that connect the head and caudal fin and a large dark spot between the third and sixth dorsal fin spines. A total of 6 specimens were collected during the study period from Gulf of Mannar and Palk Bay waters. The present report extends the range of distribution of this species, which was reported earlier from Punnakayal (southern Gulf of Mannar region). This study recommends the need for more taxonomical studies on the cryptic fish species of shallow coastal waters to better understand its diversity and distribution pattern.','The black-lined sleeper Goby, Range extension, Gulf of Mannar and Palk Bay','-','-','V. Selvakumar, S. Subburaman, R. Saravanan, D. Nagarajan and J. Nagarajan (2023). Notes on the distribution and range extension of the black-lined sleeper Goby, Valenciennea helsdingenii (Bleeker, 1858) (Gobiiformes: Gobiidae) in Gulf of Mannar and Palk Bay, India. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 15(5): 1605-1609.'),(7001,'161','Study on the Effect of Seed Treatment and Foliar Application using Different Bio-Inoculants on the Seed Quality Characters of Groundnut Variety (VRI 2)','J. Srinivasan, E. Jalapathi and K. Mugilan','Study-on-the-Effect-of-Seed-Treatment-and-Foliar-Application-using-Different-Bio-Inoculants-on-the-Seed-Quality-Characters-of-Groundnut-Variety-(VRI-2)-J-Srinivasan-36.pdf','',1,'Studies were initiated to evaluate the influence of seed priming technique (Tricoderma viride 10%, Tricoderma viride 10% + Rhizobium 10%, Tricoderma viride 10% + Rhizobium 10% + Phosphobacteria 10%, Carbendazim + Rhizobium 10% + Phosphobacteria 10%and control) in conjunction with crop management techniques viz., foliar spray (Panchakavya 1 %, Ground nut rich 1% and Panchakavya 1 % + Ground nut rich 1%) along with NPK application. The results revealed that seeds primed with Tricoderma viride 10% + Rhizobium 10%+ Phosphobacteria 10%,and foliar sprayed with 1 %ground nut richas crop management technique improved the productivity of ground nut and the seed recovery. On comparison of seed and crop management techniques the contribution of seed management technique was higher than crop management techniques. ','Ground nut – seed treatments – foliar spray – ground nut rich','The seeds primed with combinations of bio products evaluated for seed quality characters were (Tricoderma viride 10%, Tricoderma viride 10% + Rhizobium 10%, Tricoderma viride 10% + Rhizobium 10% + Phosphobacteria 10%, carbendazim + Rhizobium 10% + Phosphobacteria 10%) evaluated for productivity along with unprimmed seeds under ambient conditions of coimbatore, where the primed seeds were dried back to original moisture content. The results indicated that Tricoderma viride 10% + Rhizobium 10% + Phosphobacteria 10% performed best compared to unprimed seeds at productivity, measuring the higher order level of morphological, yield and yield attributing characters in terms of field emergence, plant height @ 60 DAS, No. of branch per plant, number of pods per plant, pod weight per plant, number of seeds per plant, seed yield per plant, seed yield per hectare. The seeds foliar spray of organic products evaluated for yield characters were (foliar application of Panchakavya 1%, foliar application of groundnut rich 1%, foliar application of Panchakavya1%+groundnut rich1%) evaluated for productivity. The results indicated that foliar application of groundnut rich 1% performed best compared to foliar application of Panchakavya 1% at yield and yield attributing characters.','-','J. Srinivasan, E. Jalapathi and K. Mugilan (2023). Study on the Effect of Seed Treatment and Foliar Application using different Bio-Inoculants on the Seed Quality Characters of Groundnut Variety (VRI 2). Biological Forum – An International Journal, 15(7): 229-234.'),(7002,'161','Factors Influencing Knowledge of Farmers on Sri Paddy Cultivation: Evidence from Kohima District of Nagaland','Azhanuo Rutsa and K. K. Jha','Factors-Influencing-Knowledge-of-Farmers-on-Sri-Paddy-Cultivation-Evidence-from-Kohima-District-of-Nagaland-Azhanuo-Rutsa-37.pdf','',1,'System of Rice Intensification (SRI) is a farming methodology which is primarily aimed at increasing the yield of rice produced in farming. It is a methodology for comprehensively managing and conserving resources by changing the way that land, seeds, water, nutrients, and human labour are used to increase productivity. Rice is an important cereal crop in Nagaland and also the staple food of the state but the paddy cultivation techniques adopted by the majority of farmers are still traditional. So, a research study was undertaken in Kohima District to examine the factors influencing knowledge of farmers on recommended SRI paddy cultivation technology including a sample size of 120 farmers. The study revealed that majority 93.33 % of the farmers growing SRI paddy had overall medium level of knowledge on SRI paddy cultivation whereas for conventional paddy growers 66.67 per cent had low level of knowledge. Variables like formal sources of information, scientific orientation, training exposure, attitude, family size, age, mass media and market orientation were found associated in influencing the knowledge level of recommended SRI paddy cultivation. Therefore, the study recommends organizing need based training programmes, demonstration, field trips, by different training agents/agencies/extension agents for enhancing more knowledge of the farmers for improving adoption of SRI technology and productivity of paddy cultivation.','SRI paddy, socio-economic characteristics, knowledge, regression, Nagaland','Majority 93.33 % of the respondents had overall medium level of knowledge on improved paddy cultivation whereas for Conventional paddy growers 66.67 per cent of them had low level of knowledge on improved paddy cultivation. Variables like formal sources of information, scientific orientation, training exposure, attitude, family size, age, mass media and market orientation were associated in influencing the knowledge level of recommended paddy cultivation. The predictor variables Age, Education, Total land holding size, Social participation, Extension Contact, Scientific Orientation and Attitude combined explained about 99.1 % of the total variations for Knowledge of SRI technology of paddy farmers. It is therefore recommended to organize need based training programmes, demonstration, field trips, study tour in the prioritized areas which should be imparted by different training agencies/ extension agents. This may be helpful to enhance the knowledge of farmers for improving paddy cultivation and increasing their profitability. The state government should provide adequate quality inputs and timely assistance to farmers for SRI paddy cultivation so that the farmers could take up SRI paddy cultivation in larger areas for higher production and income.','-','Azhanuo Rutsa and K.K. Jha (2023). Factors Influencing Knowledge of Farmerson Sri Paddy Cultivation: Evidence from Kohima District of Nagaland. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 15(7): 235-239.'),(7003,'161','Multivariate Analysis of North East Indian Rice Landraces','A.V. Nageshwara Reddy, D. Purushotama Rao, Pankaj Kumar Shah, H.P. Chaturvedi and G. Padmavathi','Multivariate-Analysis-of-North-East-Indian-Rice-Landraces-HP-Chaturvedi-38.pdf','',1,'North East India is renowned for its rich biodiversity, cultural diversity, and remarkable agricultural heritage. Within this region, a multitude of rice landraces—traditional rice varieties developed over generations—flourish, each possessing distinct characteristics and adaptations to their local environments. The study aims to comprehensively understand the genetic and phenotypic diversity present in these landraces. By employing multivariate analysis techniques, researchers can extract valuable insights from large datasets comprising various agronomic, morphological, and molecular traits associated with rice landraces. In a ground breaking experiment researchers conducted an evaluation of 52 genotypes during Kharif-2021 RBD, with five replications at the esteemed Agricultural Research Station (ARS) in Bapatla, affiliated with ANGRAU. Data was meticulously recorded and analyzed, focusing on nine quantitative characters to assess the genetic diversity of 52 rice landraces. To achieve this, the researchers employed the K-means cluster analysis and PCA methodologies. The non-hierarchical cluster analysis (k-mean) technique was utilized to divide the rice landraces into five distinct clusters, while the Elbow method was used to determine the optimal number of clusters. The analysis revealed a diverse clustering pattern, with Cluster I, II, III, IV, and V comprising of 21, 5, 6, 15 and 5 accessions, respectively. Moreover, the PCV unveiled the existence of three principal compounds, contributing to more than 54.58% of the cumulative variance in rice landraces for yield-contributing characters. PC1 demonstrated a significant variation of 25.48% in the study, while PC2 contributed 15.55% to the total variability, and PC3 exhibited 13.55% of the variance not explained by PC1 and PC2. Overall, the study revealed a plethora of valuable insights into the genetic diversity of rice landraces, paving the way for future research in the field.','Rice, Landraces, K-means, principal component analysis, Multivariate analysis','The rice landraces studied here exhibit a remarkable level of genetic diversity, as revealed by both clustering pattern and principal compound analysis. The three principal components with eigen values greater than one contribute significantly to the variance in the population, making them attractive targets for plant selection. Among the clusters, Cluster II contains five genotypes with particularly desirable mean values for all traits, making them excellent candidates for use in breeding and crossing programs. By leveraging these insights, plant breeders can effectively harness the natural diversity present in these landraces to develop improved rice varieties.','-','A.V. Nageshwara Reddy, D. Purushotama Rao, Pankaj Kumar Shah, H.P. Chaturvedi and G. Padmavathi (2023). Multivariate Analysis of North East Indian Rice Landraces. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 15(7): 240-247.'),(7004,'159','Improving Nutritional and Physicochemical Characteristics of Yoghurt with Arrowroot (Maranta arundinacea) Powder Incorporation','Archana S., Muhsina A., Archana Chandran, Rahila M.P., Grace Thachil and Ankitha Anto ','Improving-Nutritional-and-Physicochemical-Characteristics-of-Yoghurt-with-Arrowroot-(Maranta-arundinacea)-Powder-Incorporation-Archana-S-109.pdf','',1,'This study aimed to develop standardized parameters for yoghurt fortified with arrowroot powder and assess its chemical, microbiological, sensory characteristics, and shelf life. The yoghurt sample incorporated with arrowroot powder demonstrated comparable sensory properties to the control yoghurt, with improvements in flavor, body and texture, and color and appearance. The addition of arrowroot powder increased the crude fiber content of the yoghurt, potentially acting as a prebiotic substrate for the probiotics. The yoghurt exhibited slightly lower titrable acidity and higher water-holding capacity compared to the control, indicating improved texture and quality. Throughout the storage period, the arrowroot-incorporated yoghurt maintained its sensory acceptability and water holding capacity than the control and the product was found to keep well for 10 days.','Yoghurt, Arrowroot powder, Prebiotics, Shelf life','In conclusion, the addition of arrowroot powder to probiotic yoghurt resulted in a product with enhanced sensory properties, including improved flavor, body and texture, and overall acceptability compared to the control yoghurt. Arrowroot starch acted as a natural stabilizer and texturizing agent, contributing to the microstructure, color, and texture of the final product. Moreover, arrowroot powder enriched the yoghurt with dietary fiber, potentially acting as a prebiotic substrate for the probiotics that may be present, thus offering additional health benefits. The arrowroot-incorporated yoghurt also exhibited a slightly higher water-holding capacity and comparable titratable acidity to the control yoghurt. Throughout the storage period, the arrowroot-incorporated yoghurt maintained its sensory quality, with consistently higher scores compared to the control. Thus, arrowroot can be considered as a valuable ingredient for incorporation in production of functional yoghurt, offering both enhanced taste and additional nutritional values. ','-','Archana S., Muhsina A., Archana Chandran, Rahila M.P., Grace Thachil and Ankitha Anto (2023). Improving Nutritional and Physicochemical Characteristics of Yoghurt with Arrowroot (Maranta arundinacea) Powder Incorporation. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 15(7): 707-714.'),(7005,'159','Stress and its Sources among Professional Students of Kerala','Femi Francis, Alimudeen S., Namratha Valsalan, Ditty Maria Dominic and Aswathy Chandrakumar ','Stress-and-its-Sources-among-Professional-Students-of-Kerala-Femi-Francis-110.pdf','',1,'Stress has become a part of day-to-day life and seems to be normalised. While some stress, especially when experienced over a longer period of time, produces harmful effects, some stress can motivate one to progress towards the objective. Fewer research has been carried out regionally, despite the fact that many studies have been carried out globally to identify the sources of stress among professional students. The present study was conducted to assess the stress level in professional students of Kerala and to identify various stress factors. A pre-tested questionnaire was prepared in google forms and was distributed among the professional students of Kerala. The study was conducted among 287 respondents and 33% of the females and 31.11% of the male respondents were observed to be stressed. As with age or place of residence, there was no association between gender and reported stress levels. The academic factor was the major stressor followed by the socio-psychological factors. The frequency of exams was observed to be the most contributing factor among the academic factors. The nutritional stress factors were more prevalent among females. Understanding the stress factors would help to develop various stress management strategies and to implement various stress relieving activities to alleviate stress among the students. The current study\'s findings can be used by psychologists and counsellors to build effective counselling modules and intervention strategies to help students to cope up with stress.','Stress, Professional students, Academic, Social, Health','Professional students are exposed to stress irrespective of the professional courses under study with the female proportion being higher. The most reported stressor in this study was academic factors followed by socio-psychological factors and then nutritional/ health related factors. Hence more targeted approaches are required to reduce the academic stress in the students such as peer mentoring, the inclusion of a stress management curriculum, etc. Students should be encouraged to be indulged in recreational activities and extracurricular activities. A holistic approach can be targeted that improves the overall well-being of the student. ','-','Femi Francis, Alimudeen S., Namratha Valsalan, Ditty Maria Dominic and Aswathy Chandrakumar (2023). Stress and its Sources among Professional Students of Kerala. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 15(7): 715-719.'),(7006,'161','Sericulture as a Sustainable Tool for Economic Development of Small and Marginal Farmers','Vani Sree K., Upendhar S., Rajsekhar M., Prashanth Reddy R. and Mahesh M.','Sericulture-as-a-Sustainable-Tool-for-Economic-Development-of-Small-and-Marginal-Farmers-Vani-Sree-K-39.pdf','',1,'The experiment was carried at Sericulture Production and Marketing Unit at Agricultural College, Jagtial, PJTSAU. The final year B.Sc. (Ag.) students from 2012-13 to 2017-18 as a part of their Agricultural Experiential Learning Programme (AELP) have been trained in sericulture. As a part of their AELP they undergone rigorous training in rearing techniques and handling skills of sericulture at Department of Entomology, Agricultural College, Jagtial. The rearing skills of silkworms are essential for the success of the sericulture. The results clearly showed that sericulture will be a dependable industry especially for small and marginal farmers with minimum investment, low gestation period and high net returns. The production of cocoons and net profits increased as we progressed from 2012-13 to 2017-18 and few students who are passionate and impressed by the results turned out to be entrepreneurs in sericulture after their graduation. ','Sericulture, Mulberry, Silkworm, Chawki rearing, Late age larval rearing, Cocoon production and Agricultural Experiential Learning Programme (AELP)','Sericulture is the most important cash crop with minimum investment, low gestation period and high net returns. Sericulture is suitable for every section of society including a big farmer to a landless person irrespective of gender. It involves simple skill, which is easy to understand and adopt. Thus, Sericulture has provided employment and income generation in rural and semi-urban areas, high participation for low-income and socially under privileged groups. \r\nBased on the earlier experiences it has been observed that there are several advantages in sericulture, including an established rearing system, cost effectiveness, reproducible, health applications, no ethical issues and no danger of biohazard. Thus, it is being the utmost labor intensive division, which provides many opportunities for employment generation. Silk proteins like sericin and fibroin have various applications in many versatile fields as excellent biomaterials to be used beyond their traditional applications in textiles industry. Silkworm is an excellent tool for drug screening in biomedical wings also. So, new races and value addition to the cocoons will be very useful and worthy to enhance the profits for the farmers.\r\n','-','Vani Sree K., Upendhar S., Rajsekhar M., Prashanth Reddy R. and Mahesh M. (2023). Sericulture as a Sustainable Tool for Economic Development of Small and Marginal Farmers. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 15(7): 248-252.'),(7007,'161','Effect of Integrated nutrient management on plant growth parameters and yield of pearlmillet (Pennisetum glaucum L.) in alluvial soil of Gird region of Madhya Pradesh',' Tomar A., Trivedi S.K., Sharma S.K. and Singh S.','Effect-of-Integrated-nutrient-management-on-plant-growth-parameters-and-yield-of-pearlmillet-(Pennisetum-glaucum-L.)-in-alluvial-soil-of-Gird-region-of-Madhya-Pradesh-Anamika-Tomar-40.pdf','',1,'The experiment entitled “Effect of Integrated nutrient management on plant growth parameters and yield of pearl millet (Pennisetum glaucum L.) in alluvial soil of Gird region of Madhya Pradesh” was carried out in the Department of Soil Science and Agricultural Chemistry, R.V.S.K.V.V., CoA, Gwalior, Districts of Madhya Pradesh during kharif season 2021.There were 12 treatments T1 – Control, T2 -50% NPK, T3-75% NPK, T4 -100% NPK, T5 - 150% NPK, T6 -100% NPK-S, T7 -100% NPK ZnSO4, T8 -100% NPK + FeSO4, T9 -50% NPK + FYM, T10 -75% NPK + FYM, T11 -100% NPK + FYM and T12-100% NPK + FYM + {PSB+ Azotobacter (Seed treatment)} and were replicated thrice under RBD. The results indicated that plant growth parameters yield parameters found highest in the treatment T12-100% NPK + FYM + {PSB+ Azotobacter (Seed treatment)} which was found significant with the treatment T1-Control.','Integrated nutrient, plant growth parameter, quality, alluvial soil.','It may be drawn to close from the present experiment that pearlmillet responded significantly to application of treatment 100% NPK + FYM + {PSB+ Azotobacter (Seed treatment)} which was followed by the treatment 100% NPK+ FYM. ','-','Tomar A., Trivedi S.K., Sharma S.K. and Singh S. (2023). Effect of Integrated nutrient management on plant growth parameters and yield of pearlmillet (Pennisetum glaucum L.) in alluvial soil of Gird region of Madhya Pradesh. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 15(7): 253-255.'),(7008,'153','Experimental Analysis on Engineering Properties of Pervious Concrete with GGBS as a Partial Replacement for Cement','Debashish Karmakar, Kaberi Majumdar, Manish Pal and Pankaj Kumar Roy','Experimental Analysis on Engineering Properties of Pervious Concrete with GGBS as a Partial Replacement for Cement-Debashish Karmakar-9.pdf','',1,'Porous Concrete has been developed as an emerging technology, since this is environmentally and hydrologically sustainable. The use of porous concrete is limited to parking lots, walkways, footpaths etc. But to use porous concrete on the road for vehicular movement is a challenge for any researcher. The current approach is to use porous concrete on the low volume road by improving the engineering properties. Using a variety of design criteria, this study prepares a number of test samples before examining the characteristics like strength and permeability of porous concrete mixes. Regarding characteristics such as flexural strength, permeability, compressive strength, tensile strength, and porosity the effects of cement-water ratio, aggregate gradation, and fine aggregate’s percentage are estimated. Different samples of pervious concrete mixtures have been produced and experimentally tested employing aggregate sizes 20-16 mm, 16-12.5 mm, and 12.5-4.75 mm. In the study water-cement ratio is considered as 0.30 and 0.32. The presence of GGBS in the permeable concrete was evaluated using a systematic investigation through the compressive strength and permeability property. In this experimental initiative, it is suggested that GGBS may be utilized to partially replace cement. The percentages of replacement were considered as 25 percent, 30 percent, 35 percent and 40 percent. The combination started to lose its stability once we reached the maximum level of 40%. The split tensile strength, flexural strengths and, compressive strength were all improved with a 40% substitution. The GGBS has been raised, yet it has decreased permeability. The current study has improved the structural and hydrological properties of porous concrete by adding GGBS at some selected percentage, and this improved mix may be used for the preparation of porous concrete layer for low-volume roads construction.','GGBS, Water cement ratio, Aggregate binder ratio, Strength, Permeability','In this study, GGBS is added with the mixes at different percentages as cement replacement partially. Fine particles are also added to the mix. Mixes have been casted with two types of water-cement ratios viz 0.30 and 0.32. Various examinations, including flexural strength, compressive strength, permeability and split tensile strength, tests have been carried out on the mix samples. From the test results, it is observed that with strengths like compressive strength and split tensile strength, the maximum value is obtained when 40% cement of the mix is replaced by GGBS and 5% fine aggregates are added at w/c ratio of 0.30. It has been also noticed that the maximum value for flexural strength is found for the mix having 35% cement replacement and 5% fines at water-cement ratio of 0.32 after 28 days curing. In terms of permeability, mix having 0% fines with 25% cement replacement at water-cement ratio of 0.30 shows maximum value. So it may be concluded from the observations that the addition of GGBS in more percentage along with fine aggregates improves the mix in terms of different strength parameters, but permeability and porosity properties are decreased at the same time. So, based on the previous and current research, it may be stated that GGBS is one of the alternatives to use in pervious concrete mix as cementitious material, and it can improve the strength and hydrological property of the mix.','-','Debashish Karmakar, Kaberi Majumdar, Manish Pal and Pankaj Kumar Roy (2023). Experimental Analysis on Engineering Properties of Pervious Concrete with GGBS as a Partial Replacement for Cement. International Journal on Emerging Technologies, 14(1): 52–58.'),(7009,'157','Macaranga indica Plant Assisted Rapid Synthesis of Copper Nanoparticles for Biomedical Applications','Gajanan Hegde and Tanuja Kadre','Macaranga-indica-Plant-Assisted-Rapid-Synthesis-of-Copper-Nanoparticles-for-Biomedical-Applications-Tanuja-Khadre-243.pdf','',1,'Rapid synthesis of stable copper nanoparticles is a challenging process in the synthetic world. Here in this study, the above challenge was achieved via the green route by using Macaranga indica plant extract. Macaranga indica is a medicinal plant widely available in the western ghat evergreen forest. Since a decade ago, villagers of the western ghat belt have been using its medicinal properties like antibacterial, antioxidant, antidiabetic, and antidysentery as household remedies. In this current study, we have used its bark extract to prepare stable copper nanoparticles to increase its medicinal properties. Synthesized nanoparticles are characterized by using analytical tools like UV-Vis spectra, XRD, TG, FESEM, EDX, and TEM analysis. These techniques reveal that synthesized nanoparticles are crystalline monodispersed in nature and have a size of 20-22 nm. Furthermore, these biocapped nanoparticles have shown good antibacterial and antioxidant properties and can be used for biomedical applications as well as in drinking water treatment. ','Rapid green synthesis, Copper Nano Particles, Macaranga indica, Microwave Assisted, Biomedical applications','In this study, employing M. Indica plant bark extract act as a reducing and stabilizing agent, the biocapped CuNPs of almost spherical form were successfully produced using microwave irradiation. The UV-Vis spectra for the SPR peak, 535 nm, are used to track the synthesis of CuNPs. With rising reaction mixture temperature, SPR intensity rose linearly. The marginal pH reduction and E increase of the reaction mixture provide evidence in favor of the CuNPs\' production mechanism. According to UV-Vis spectra, the highest reduction, which converted 80% of the Cu2+ ions into CuNPs, occurred in less than 6 minutes, while the full reduction occurred in roughly 8 minutes. These CuNPs\' structural and microstructural information was gathered utilizing the techniques of XRD, EDX, TG, and FESEM/TEM. The CuNPs\' XRD pattern and reported statistics for copper metal coincided, and the crystal size is around 23 nm. The heat breakdown of plant waste materials and the oxidation of Cu to CuO are demonstrated by TG analysis. The homogeneous spherical particles created here are visible in FESEM/TEM pictures. As anticipated, the presence of Cu alone is confirmed by elemental analysis by EDX. The synthesized Macaranga indica bark extract-mediated copper nanoparticles have shown good antimicrobial properties and antioxidant properties compared with the standard drugs available in the market. Hence, this can be used in the biomedical field as a potent drug. ','-','Gajanan Hegde and Tanuja Kadre (2023). Macaranga indica Plant Assisted Rapid Synthesis of Copper Nanoparticles for Biomedical Applications. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 15(5): 1610-1615.'),(7010,'161','Phosphorus and Potassium Fertilization with different Levels on the Growth and Yield of Summer Green gram (Vigna radiate L.) varieties','N. Anthony Baite, D. Nongmaithem, Saya D., Sentisuba and Imnatenjen Aier','Phosphorus-and-Potassium-Fertilization-with-different-Levels-on-the-Growth-and-Yield-of-Summer-Green-gram-(Vigna-radiate-L.)-varieties-D-Nongmaithem-41.pdf','',1,'Green gram, an important legume crop cultivated globally, relies on adequate phosphorus (P) and potassium (K) for optimal growth, development, and yield. However, determining the appropriate fertilization rates for maximizing green gram productivity remains a challenge. Thus, this research aimed to identify suitable P and K fertilization rates for green gram under Nagaland soil conditions, as well as evaluate different varieties. The study employed a factorial randomized block design replicated thrice. The experiment consisted of two factors: green gram varieties (cv. IPM02-3, cv. SGC-20, and cv. SGC-16) and combined P and K fertilizers applied at varying rates (40, 50, and 60 kg/ha each of P2O5 and K2O). Increasing P and K fertilization rates resulted in a linear increase in growth attributes, yield, and stover yield. The highest seed yield was obtained with the application of 60-60 kg/ha P2O5-K2O. Nonetheless, the 50-50 kg/ha P2O5-K2O treatment yielded 48.7% higher than the control, demonstrating statistical similarity with the highest yield. Among the varieties, IPM 02-3 outperformed the other tested varieties. These findings contribute valuable insights for optimizing green gram production by guiding appropriate fertilization practices and variety selection.','Green gram, Growth, Levels, Phosphorus, Potassium, Yield',' Results from the study gave a hint that different fertilization rates of phosphorus and potassium had varying degrees of interaction with the crop leading to different outcomesconcerning growth and yield. Application of P and K nutrientshad a positive role in increasing the plant attributes such as plant height, LAI, and dry matter which in turn had a positive correlation with seed yield and stover yield. It can be concluded that increasing the fertilizer doses of phosphorus and potassium to 60 kg/ha to boost the production need not necessarily be done as 50 kg/ha could bring almost better crop performance and also increase profitability. Further, the adoption of green gram cv. IPM 02-3 under Nagaland conditions in the summer season will be beneficial owing to the better adaptability. ','-','N. Anthony Baite, D. Nongmaithem, Saya D., Sentisuba and Imnatenjen Aier (2023). Phosphorus and Potassium Fertilization with different Levels on the Growth and Yield of Summer Green gram (Vigna radiate L.) varieties. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 15(7): 256-260.'),(7011,'161','Nutritional Evaluation of Bitter Gourd Hybrids and Parents','Anju M. Sunny, T. Pradeepkumar, J.S. Minimol, Deepu Mathew, M. Sangeeta Kutty and P. Anitha','Nutritional-Evaluation-of-Bitter-Gourd-Hybrids-and-Parents-Anju-M-Sunny-42.pdf','',1,'Sensory evaluation among the consumers is inevitable before releasing a variety of bitter gourd as the local preference for different traits varies. Hence in the present study, sensory attributes, nutritional potentials, and shelf life of six bitter gourd hybrids and their parents were examined. The varieties used for the experiment include three monoecious lines viz., Preethi, Priyanka, and MC 133, and a gynoecious line KAU-MCGy-101. Six hybrids were developed by crossing KAU-MCGy-101 with Preethi, Priyanka, and MC 133. Sensory evaluation was carried out using a panel of 15 judges. All the dark green fruited hybrids and the gynoecious parent scored less (4.48 to 6.03) for overall acceptability when compared with the white and light green fruited parents Preethi, Priyanka, and MC133 (8.13, 7.64, and 8.02 respectively). Among the hybrids, Preethi × KAU-MCGy-101 secured the highest score for overall acceptability (6.03). The gynoecious parent, KAU-MCGy-101 was found superior for the calcium content (6.24 mg/100g). Iron content was highest in the hybrid KAU-MCGy-101 × Priyanka (1.00 mg/100g). Preethi and KAU-MCGy-101 × Priyanka exhibited the highest shelf life with less physiological loss in weight (20.35 and 24.41 % after 6 days of storage) among the parents and hybrids respectively.','Momordica charantia, gynoecious hybrids, sensory evaluation, ascorbic acid, shelf life','Varietal development programs in bitter gourd have focused on traits related to agronomic importance, particularly fruit yield. Even though, varieties/hybrids should possess good sensory attributes, nutritional profile and shelf life. The sensory evaluation of parents and hybrids showed less acceptability of dark green fruited bitter gourd (5.35 to 6.03), which tastes bitter than the white fruited. The popular light green fruited varieties of Kerala, Preethi and Priyanka along with the white fruited MC 133 stand first in the overall acceptability. Similar to the findings of other studies, bitter gourd fruits were rich in ascorbic acid, calcium and iron (Aboa et al., 2008; Sorice et al., 2014; Dhillon et al., 2016; Goo et al., 2016; Tan et al., 2016). Compared with the parents, ascorbic acid content was less in the hybrids, ranging from95.23 to 109.95mg/100g. Among the hybrids, MC 133 × KAU-MCGy-101 showed a high amount of ascorbic acid (109.95 mg/100g). The light green and white fruits were rich in ascorbic acid compared to the dark green fruits of gynoecious parent and hybrids. The hybrid, KAU-MCGy-101 × MC 133 posesses 17.05mg/100g of calcium. Iron content was found highest in the hybrid KAU-MCGy-101 × Priyanka (1.00 mg/100g). The hybrids also exhibit good shelf life in the terms of physiological loss in weight. Hence, the hybrids resultingfrom the gynoecious and monecious bitter gourd crosses are rich in phytonutrients with good shelf life. ','-','Anju M. Sunny, T. Pradeepkumar, J.S. Minimol, Deepu Mathew, M. Sangeeta Kutty and P. Anitha (2023). Nutritional Evaluation of Bitter Gourd Hybrids and Parents. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 15(7): 261-266.'),(7012,'161','Character Association and Path Analysis for Grain Yield and Yield Components in White Finger Millet (Eleusine coracana L. Gaertn) Germplasm','Boddu Aruna, Ganapathy K.N., C.V. Sameer Kumar and Venkateswarlu Ronda','Character-Association-and-Path-Analysis-for-Grain-Yield-and-Yield-Components-in-White-Finger-Millet-(Eleusine-coracana-L.-Gaertn)-Germplasm-Boddu-Aruna-43.pdf','',1,'White finger millet is generally low yielder when compared to brown finger millet but it is nutritionally superior and is desired for its use especially in bakery and other products. Grain yield is a complex trait and it is influenced by many independent traits. Therefore, the knowledge of association studies is beneficial to breeder for improvement of yield. Finger millet is the third most important millet after pearl millet and sorghum and occupies an estimated area of 1.23 million hectares in India. Grains of finger millet are known for having highest levels of calcium (250-350 mg/100g) in addition to quality protein (7-9%), dietary fibre (2-4%) and other mineral content (2.7%). The present study aimed at understanding the genetic relationships among various grain attributing traits in white finger millet germplasm lines. The study was conducted in alpha lattice design in two replications for the evaluation of ten quantitative traits in 52 germplasm lines of white finger millet in kharif 2022. The traits include days to 50% flowering, plant height, finger length, finger width, number of tillers, number of fingers, panicle weight, days to maturity, grain yield per plot and test weight. Association studies revealed that plant height, number of tillers per plant, panicle weight and test weight showed a positive significant association with grain yield per plot at both genotypic and phenotypic level respectively. Grain yield per plot exhibited negative significant association with days to 50% flowering and days to maturity at both genotypic and phenotypic level respectively. Path analysis revealed that panicle weight, test weight, plant height and finger width showed a positive significant direct effect on grain yield per plot at both genotypic and phenotypic level respectively. Correlation and path analysis concluded that the characters panicle weight, number of tillers per plant, plant height and test weight showed a true association with grain yield per plot and significant positive correlation with high positive direct effects. Hence direct selection of these traits will be beneficial.','Finger millet, Correlation, Path analysis, Grain yield, Genotypic, Phenotypic','The current investigation of correlation analysis showed that panicle weight followed by the number of number of tillers per plant, plant height and test weight had a significant and positive association with grain yield per plot. Weight of panicle contributing more towards the grain yield per plot among all characters that have significant association.\r\nAccording to path analysis, grain yield was significantly and positively affected by weight of panicle, number of tillers per plant, plant height and test weight.\r\nThe results of the present study of correlation and path analysis concluded that weight of panicle, number of tillers per plant, plant height and test weight had a significant positive and direct effect on grain yield per plot. Therefore, it is beneficial to put more focus on these traits in the selection process to increase the grain yield of white finger millet.\r\n','-','Boddu Aruna, Ganapathy K.N., C.V. Sameer Kumar and Venkateswarlu Ronda (2023). Character Association and Path Analysis for Grain Yield and Yield Components in White Finger Millet (Eleusine coracana L. Gaertn) Germplasm. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 15(7): 267-271.'),(7013,'161','Influence of Moisture Conserving Polymer and integrated Nutrient Management on Nutrient content and uptake in Wheat (Triticum aestivum L.) under Limited Irrigated condition','Kamal Tiwari, Sanjeev Kumar, M.Z. Siddiqui, Kishan Kumar, Ram Niwas, Jitendra Kumar and Ram Naresh','Influence-of-Moisture-Conserving-Polymer-and-integrated-Nutrient-Management-on-Nutrient-content-and-uptake-in-Wheat-(Triticum-aestivum-L.)-under-Limited-Irrigated-condition-Kamal-Tiwari-44.pdf','',1,'The field experiment was carried out at Chandra Shekhar Azad University of Agriculture & Technology, Kanpur (U.P.) during Rabi season of 2020-21 and 2021-22 to study the “Influence of moisture conserving polymer and integrated nutrient management on productivity of wheat (Triticum aestivum L.) under limited irrigated condition”. The experiment comprised of twenty four treatment combinations and conducted in split plot design and replicated three times. Experiment consisted of three irrigation schedules viz. One irrigation, Two irrigations, and Three irrigations in main plots, two moisture conservation practices viz. Pusa Hydrogel 5 kg ha-1 and Paddy straw mulch 5 t ha-1 in sub plots and four nutrient management viz. 100% RDF, 100% RDF + Azotobacter, 75% RDF + Azotobacter + FYM 5 t ha-1 and 75% RDF + Azotobacter + FYM 5 t ha-1 + ZnSO4 20 kg ha-1 were kept in sub-sub plots. On pooled basis of two years experimentation result revealed that application of three irrigations at CRI, booting and milking stage resulted significant increase in the dry weight of plant, crop growth rate (CGR), phosphorus and zinc content, N, P, K and Zn uptake and protein yield in grain. Whereas, higher content of nitrogen, potash and protein in grain was recorded with one irrigation treatment. However, in moisture conservation practices higher value of all parameters as given above was recorded with the application of Pusa Hydrogel 5 kg ha-1. Among the integrated nutrient management practices, significantly higher value of N, K, Zn except phosphorus content and uptake as recorded higher with the integration of 75% RDF + Azotobacter + FYM 5 t ha-1 + ZnSO4 20 kg ha-1 but low in phosphorus.','Irrigation, Pusa hydrogel, Nutrient, Protein, FYM, Azotobacter and Wheat','It is concluded from the study that cultivation of wheat with the application of three irrigations, Pusa hydrogel and integration of 75% RDF + Azotobacter + FYM 5 t ha-1 + ZnSO4 @ 20 kg ha-1 resulted into improvement in the growth attributes, nutrient uptake and quality parameters as compared to other treatments. In limited irrigation condition, it is a viable option to use hydrogel @ 5 kg ha-1 for resources conservation in wheat cultivation.','-','Kamal Tiwari, Sanjeev Kumar, M.Z. Siddiqui, Kishan Kumar, Ram Niwas, Jitendra Kumar and Ram Naresh (2023). Influence of Moisture Conserving Polymer and integrated Nutrient Management on Nutrient content and uptake in Wheat (Triticum aestivum L.) under Limited Irrigated condition. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 15(7): 272-278.'),(7014,'161','Effect of Jamun Seed Powder on the Sensory quality of Restructured Chicken Block at Refrigerated Storage','S. Kasthuri, Hariharan R. and P.K. Mandal','Effect-of-Jamun-Seed-Powder-on-the-Sensory-quality-of-Restructured-Chicken-Block-at-Refrigerated-Storagea-S-Kasthuri-45.pdf','',1,'Consumers are becoming more intrigued by organic preservatives with enhanced health benefits. Antioxidant and anti-diabetic benefits of jamun seed powder (JSP) are well established. A study was done to develop a reconstructed chicken block with JSP added at levels of 0% (C), 3% (T1), and 5%. (T2). The completed product was cut into thin slices (4 mm thick), packaged in LDPE pouches, and chilled (4–1oC). The products were exposed to sensory evaluation on days 1, 7, 12, and 17 of storage. On the first day of storage, the sensory scores were considerably higher for controls (7.10 to 7.30) than for treatments (6.45 to 7.05), but on all subsequent days, they were significantly lower for controls (1.00 to 3.30) than for the treatments (5.77 to 6.94). The assessments for the treatments\' appearance, flavour, juiciness, texture, and overall acceptability varied between 6.15 to 6.78, 5.95 to 6.80, 6.00 to 6.90, 5.77 to 7.05, and 6.25 to 7.05, respectively. All sensory characteristics of the control and treatments significantly decreased as storage days increased, however, the product was still acceptable up to the seventh day for the control and 17 days for the treatments when kept in the refrigerator. On the first, seventh, and twelve days after being stored, T1 received higher sensory scores than T2; however, there was no marked differences on the seventeenth day. For the overall acceptability score in treatment 1, there was no discernible change between the first and seventh days of storage and the 12th and 17th days of storage. Therefore, JSP could be incorporated at a level of 3% to restructured meat blocks and maintained at refrigeration temperature for up to 17 days without compromising the sensory qualities.','Restructured chicken block, Jamun seed powder, Sensory quality, Refrigeration storage','Based on the findings of the present study it can be concluded that Jamun seed powder could be incorporated at the level of 3% to restructured meat block and stored up to 17 days under refrigeration temperature without affecting the sensory attributes. ','-','S. Kasthuri, Hariharan R. and P. K. Mandal (2023). Effect of Jamun Seed Powder on the Sensory quality of Restructured Chicken Block at Refrigerated Storage. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 15(7): 279-283.'),(7015,'161','Studies on Genetic Variability and Heritability for Several Morpho-Physiological Traits under various Sodicity Levels in Rice (Oryza sativa L.)','Ankur Kumar Singh, Shiva Nath, Shrigovind, Akanksha Singh and Tarkeshwar ','Studies-on-Genetic-Variability-and-Heritability-for-Several-Morpho-Physiological-Traits-under-various-Sodicity-Levels-in-Rice-(Oryza-sativa-L.)-Ankur-Singh-46.pdf','',1,'Rice is an effective supply of carbohydrate, proteins, fiber, lipid and fat, minerals (potassium, phosphorous, magnesium, calcium, sodium and iodine) and nutrients (thiamine, riboflavin, niacin, pyridoxine and folic acid). Rice is often consumed in poor countries with limited access to meat and fish, resulting in a deficiency in key minerals and nutrients in the diet. About 90% of the world\'s rice is produced and consumed in Asia, making it a staple meal. Seventy-three distinct rice genotypes, including three checks from two different farms with varying levels of sodicity i.e., pH 8.4 (at Agronomy Farm) and pH 9.5 (at Main Experiment Station) during kharif 2021-22, were investigated for genetic variability, heritability, and genetic advance following randomized complete block design. A collection of diverse genotypes was evaluated for fifteen various morpho-physiological traits viz., days to 50% flowering, plant height (cm), productive tillers per plant, panicle length (cm), flag leaf area (cm2), fertile spikelet/panicle, spikelet fertility percent, chlorophyll content, L/B ration, leaf nitrogen, leaf temperature (SPAD Value), biological yield per plant (g), harvest-index (%), 1000-grains weight (g) and grain yield per plant (g). The analysis of variance revealed highly significant differences among the genotypes for all the traits. A look at the coefficient of variability revealed that the GCV and PCV at Agronomy Farm (pH 8.4, E1) were quite high for productive tiller/plant, flag leaf area, biological yield/plant, chlorophyll content, and grains yield, while being moderate for plant height, fertile spikelet/panicle, and leaf nitrogen, and having the lowest values noted for days to 50% flowering, panicle length, spikelet fertility, harvest index, leaf temperature, and 1000-grain weight. PCV and GCV, on the other hand, were moderate for plant height, fertile spikelet/panicle, L/B ratio, and leaf nitrogen, and quite high for productive tiller/plant, flag leaf area, biological yield/plant, chlorophyll content, and grains yield at the main experiment station farm (E2). They were, however, lowest for days to 50% flowering panicle length, leaf temperature, and 1000-grain weight (g) at this farm. For E1 (pH 8.4), a high estimate of heredity was obtained for every parameter, while for E2 (pH 9.6), a high estimate of heritability was found for every parameter with the exception of Leaf temperature. The majority of the features\' high heritability and high genetic progress suggested that additive gene action predominated. In our breeding programme, selection can be used to enhance these features.','Rice, sodicity, variability, heritability, genetic advance, Oryza sativa','In the current experiment, it was determined that plant height (cm), productive tiller / plant, flag leaf area (cm2), fertile spikelet / panicle, biological yield / plant (g), L/B ratio, chlorophyll content, leaf nitrogen, and grains yield (g/plant) are the most significant characters at both Sodicity levels because they have high heritability coeficients. This suggests that the regulating gene responsible for these features involves additive gene activity. Therefore, these traits could be enhanced through selection in generations that are segregated. The total outcome demonstrated that the genotypes under study had sufficient diversity. Using the right breeding methods and programmes, this diversity could be successfully managed to create better cultivars. Most qualities at both farms of the two distinct sodicity levels showed high estimates of heritability and genetic progress, showing the preponderance of additive gene action and the potential for direct selection through these traits.','-','Ankur Kumar Singh, Shiva Nath, Shrigovind, Akanksha Singh and Tarkeshwar (2023). Studies on Genetic Variability and Heritability for Several Morpho-Physiological Traits under various Sodicity Levels in Rice (Oryza sativa L.). Biological Forum – An International Journal, 15(7): 284-289.'),(7016,'161','Association of Thrips parvispinus (Karny) on different hosts of South India','G. Durga, B. C. Hanumanthaswamy, C. M. Kalleshwaraswamy, R.R. Rachana and K. M. Satish ','Association-of-Thrips-parvispinus-(Karny)-on-different-hosts-of-South-India-Durga-G-47.pdf','',1,'Thrips pose serious threat to a wide array of crops produced across different parts of India. The species Thrips parvispinus (Karny) is recently invaded serious pest causing major threat to many economically important crops. Random surveys were conducted in 13 different districts of Karnataka and a few places of Tamil Nadu and Andhra Pradesh, to know the associational diversity of T. parvispinus in different host crop ecosystems. Of the different host crops surveyed, the invasive T. parvispinus was observed in almost all the surveyed chilli growing regions. Other hosts were Capsicum, Chilli, Ridge guard, Cucumber, Marigold, Coriander, Carrot, Garlic, Coccinia, Beans, Cowpea, Papaya, Brinjal, Field bean, Tomato, Bhendi, Bitter guard, Beach spider lily, Madagascar periwinkle, Crape jasmine, Sweet clock vine and Morning Glory. Multiple host families like Solanaceae, Cucurbitaceae, Asteraceae, Apiaceae, Amaryllidaceae, Cucurbitaceae, Fabaceae, Caricaceae, Malvaceae, Apocynaceae, Convolvulaceae and Acanthaceae were found to be associated with T. parvispinus. This is a highly polyphagous quarantine pest and hence, may pose a potential threat to various crop ecosystems in future. ','Diversity, Thripidae, Thrips, chilli, quarantine pest','The present study gives information regarding the T. parvispinus associated with different crop ecosystems. During the survey, 18 host plants were recorded belonging to 12 families from different districts of south India. Dominance of T. parvispinus was observed in chilli crop ecosystem irrespective of the location. Since this is a highly polyphagous quarantine pest, the report warrants special caution. Unless successful quarantine measures are put in place, the spread and subsequent depredations of cultivated crops is inevitable. Host plant documentation of thrips from south India is lacking and hence, our work demands further survey and study in this field from the state. The presence of T. parvispinus in other parts of India needs to be closely monitored because it is likely to become a greater nuisance in the future.','-','G. Durga, B. C. Hanumanthaswamy, C. M. Kalleshwaraswamy, R.R. Rachana and K. M. Satish (2023). Association of Thrips parvispinus (Karny) on different hosts of South India. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 15(7): 290-292.'),(7017,'161','Effect of Late Sowing on Bread Wheat Resilience to Terminal Heat stress based on Morphological and Quality Traits','Karuna, Y.P.S. Solanki, Vikram Singh, M.S. Dalal and Navreet Kaur Rai','Effect-of-Late-Sowing-on-Bread-Wheat-Resilience-to-Terminal-Heat-stress-based-on-Morphological-and-Quality-Traits-Karuna-48.pdf','',1,'Crop improvement programmes require precise knowledge of germplasm variability and genetic relationships among breeding material. To study the effect of late sowing on variability and association among twenty three morphological and quality traits, the experiment was carried out with sixty advance breeding lines along with four standard checks of wheat during Rabi 2020-21 at the research area of Wheat and Barley section, Department of Genetics and Plant Breeding, CCS Haryana Agricultural University, Hisar. The study revealed highly significant differences among the advance lines for yield and its contributing traits. The magnitude of phenotypic coefficient of variation (PCV) was slightly higher than their respective genotypic coefficient of variation (GCV) for all the characters, indicating the least influence of environment on the characters studied. The estimates of PCV, GCV, heritability and genetic advance were observed to be high for total soluble sugars, while grain weight per spike, crude protein, sedimentation value, wet gluten, dry gluten and total gluten had moderate GCV, PCV along with high heritability and genetic advance, suggesting the possibility of improving these traits through selection. Grain yield per plot was found to have significant and positive correlation with days to heading, number of effective tillers per metre, spike length, number of spikelets per spike, flag leaf length, peduncle length, main spike weight, grain weight per spike, number of grains per spike, 1000 grain weight, biological yield per plot, harvest index and hectolitre weight, depicting the prospect of improving these yield contributing traits concurrently. Whereas, grain yield showed a negative significant correlation with crude protein and sedimentation value. The path coefficient analysis showed that almost all the traits contributed to grain yield per plot via biological yield per plot and harvest index, indicating that indirect selection through both these traits would lead to crop improvement. A remarkable magnitude of genetic variability was found that can be used for selection of heat tolerant lines.','Late sown, Genetic variability, Morphological and Quality traits','It can be concluded from the above mentioned findings and details that the genotypes used in the study exhibited considerable variability for various traits giving opportunities of the genetic gain through selection or hybridization. High PCV, GCV, heritability and genetic advance were observed for total soluble sugars, while moderate GCV, PCV along with high heritability and genetic advance were observed for grain weight per spike, crude protein, sedimentation value, wet gluten, dry gluten and total gluten, suggesting the possibility of improving these traits through selection. The traits governing yield i.e., biological yield per plot, number of effective tillers per meter, 1000 grain weight, flag leaf length, peduncle length, number of grains per spike, grain weight per spike and hectolitre weight under stress were identified, on the basis of association analysis. Hence, it would be rewarding to lay stress on these characters for improvement. The genetic control of variation in the grain yield per plot in bread wheat is governed by a number of interrelated processes, many of which have been better understood as a result of the current study. Thus, the findings of the present study would offer some guidance for choosing parents, predicting the potential benefits of genetic recombination, and developing a model plant type for selection in segregating generations.','-','Karuna, Y.P.S. Solanki, Vikram Singh, M.S. Dalal and Navreet Kaur Rai (2023). Effect of Late Sowing on Bread Wheat Resilience to Terminal Heat stress based on Morphological and Quality Traits. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 15(7): 293-299.'),(7018,'161','Extraction and Characterization of Chitosan from Aspergillus flavus strain AF2118','Aathira S. Kumar and Kamla Malik','Extraction-and-Characterization-of-Chitosan-from-Aspergillus-flavus-strain-AF2118-Aathira-S-Kumar-49.pdf','',1,'Chitosan is a versatile natural hydrophilic polysaccharide which is composed of glucosamine (GlcN) and N-acetylglucosamine (GlcNAc) units linked by β 1, 4-glycosidic bonds. It is mainly derived from chitin which is a component of crustacean exoskeleton such as shrimp, lobster, crab, insects and cell wall of fungi. Conventional method of chitosan production has harmful environmental effects since it produces millions of tons of basic and acidic residues, which are discharged into the ecosystem without any further treatment. The enzymatic deacetylation of chitin is the major mechanism for synthesis of chitosan in fungi. The chitosan produced from crustacean shell waste had inconsistent physicochemical properties because of variable and seasonal supply of raw materials and difficulties in processing methods. To overcome these problems, fungi have been treated as an alternative source for chitosan production. In our study 18 morphologically different fungal isolates, 17 bacteria and 3 actinomycetes were isolated. These isolates were further screened for chitin deacetylase activity. The isolate FC3 was the most efficient fungal isolate showing highest yield of chitosan (0.096g/100ml). The chitosan extracted from isolate FC 3 presented a degree of deacetylation of 88.5%. On the basis of ITS sequencing, the fungal isolate FC 3 showed 92 % similarity with Aspergillus flavus strain AF2118. ','Chitosan, fungi, degree of deacetylation, chitin deacetylase','Based on the quantitative estimation of chitosan extracted from the biomass, among the different isolates Aspergillus flavus strain AF2118 (FC3) was selected as an alternative source of chitosan from the shells of crustaceans. Henceforth, an economical process of chitosan production can be organized by growing fungi on agro-industrial waste materials which provides a continu¬ous and unlimited source of chitosan.','-','Aathira S. Kumar and Kamla Malik (2023). Extraction and Characterization of Chitosan from Aspergillus flavus strain AF2118. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 15(7): 300-306.'),(7019,'161','Effect of Organics on Physico-chemical properties of Inceptisol','Thite M.D., Ranshur N.J. and Amolik S.M.','Effect-of-Organics-on-Physico-chemical-properties-of-Inceptisol-Thite-M-50.pdf','',1,'An incubation study on the topic entitled, “Effect of organics on physico-chemical properties of Inceptisol” was carried out at Department of Soil Science and Agricultural Chemistry, Post Graduate Institute, MPKV, Rahuri, during 2020-21. The experiment was laid out in a complete randomized block design (CRD) with three replication and seven treatments. The treatment comprised of Soil + FYM @ 10 t ha-1 (T1), Soil + Vermicompost @ 5 t ha-1 (T2), Soil + Poultry manure @ 5 t ha-1 (T3), Soil + Press mud compost @ 5 t ha-1 (T4), Soil + Goat manure @ 5 t ha-1 (T5), Soil + Urban compost @ 10 t ha-1 (T6) and Absolute control (T7). The results of research indicated that incorporation of organic manures to soil influenced all the properties of soil significantly. The effects of organic manures on soil varied with organic material and incubation period. The application of FYM @ 10t ha-1 significantly improved the soil aggregate stability (MWD) and available water content (0.94 mm and 14.00% respectively). The application of FYM @ 10 t ha-1 recorded significantly lower pH (7.85). However, the application of vermicompost @ 5 t ha-1 was at par with treatment FYM @ 10 t ha-1. The significantly highest EC was recorded with the application of press mud compost @ 5 t ha-1 (0.41 dS m-1). The application of poultry manure significantly influenced soil available N, P and K content. The organic carbon content significantly increased at 15 days of incubation and further decreased from 30 days of incubation. The highest organic carbon content was observed with application of FYM @ 10 t ha-1 (0.69 % at 15 days of incubation). The application of FYM @ 10 t ha-1 significantly increased the Fe and Zn content in soil (5.39 mg kg-1 and 0.72 mg kg-1 respectively). The Mn content was improved with the application of poultry manure @ 5 t ha-1 (7.78 mg kg-1) and application of urban compost @ 10 t ha-1 recorded significantly highest Cu content (0.72 mg kg-1). ','Incubation, organics, physical and chemical properties, Inceptisol','The application of FYM @ 10 t ha-1 to soil (Inceptisol) was found superior as evident from higher values of mean weight diameter, available water content, soil pH, organic carbon, iron and zinc content and other physico-chemical properties of Inceptisol under 60 days of incubation study. Among all the treatments, the application poultry manure @ 5 t ha-1 had distinct effect on N, P, and K content in soil, followed by application of press mud compost @ 5 t ha-1 which had a significant effect on soil properties under 60 days incubation study. ','-','Thite M.D., Ranshur N.J. and Amolik S.M. (2023). Effect of Organics on Physico-chemical properties of Inceptisol. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 15(7): 307-313.'),(7020,'161','Identifying the Constraints faced by Paddy Farmers due to Natural Disasters in Andhra Pradesh','Sandipamu Raahalya, P. Balasubramaniam, M. Nirmala Devi, N. Maragatham and R. Gangai Selvi ','Identifying-the-Constraints-faced-by-Paddy-Farmers-due-to-Natural-Disasters-in-Andhra-Pradesh-Sandipamu-Raahalya-51.pdf','',1,'Climate change has been realized globally as an ever increasing threat to our planet that is becoming impossible to ignore. Andhra Pradesh is the coastal state in south eastern India which is recorded as one of the states mostly affected by tropical cyclones. In the present paper, constraints faced by paddy farmers were identified during the phase of Disaster response and recovery. The study was conducted in the Krishna and NTR districts of Andhra Pradesh with sample of size of 240 paddy growers who were affected by natural disasters. A structured interview schedule was used to identify the constraints faced by farmers. Constraints were categorized in to operational, technology, economic and social constraints. Lack of information regarding weather forecasting mechanisms, lack of need based technology, poor marketing of the cyclone affected produce and Non availability of relief materials in required quantity were some of the major constraints faced by farmers. Along with the identified constraints suggestions are given to make suitable policy decisions under adverse climatic situations.','Tropical cyclones, constraints, paddy farmers, natural disasters, forecasting mechanisms','The present study provides significant insights into the farmers’ perspective of constraints and suggestions to overcome their constraints. The analysis is based on the primary data collected from the paddy farmers affected due to natural disasters in study area. The analysis identified that Lack of information about the accurate weather forecast is the major constraint faced by farmers during disaster response phase. Increased pest incidence & emergence of new pest, lack of need based technology, poor marketing of the cyclone or flood-affected produce and non availability of relief materials in required quantity were the some of the constraints faced by farmers during disaster recovery phase. The above provided suggestions could help farmer to overcome the constraints. Government and policy makers should concentrate on those areas to make the farmer to resilient towards natural disasters and to develop disaster resilient community in India.','-','Sandipamu Raahalya, P. Balasubramaniam, M. Nirmala Devi, N. Maragatham and R. Gangai Selvi (2023). Identifying the Constraints faced by Paddy Farmers due to Natural Disasters in Andhra Pradesh. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 15(7): 314-318.'),(7021,'161','Variability studies on M3 Population of Soybean (Glycine max L. Merill.)','Sandip P. Patil, Sunil Kumar Nag, Satish S. Nichal and Dinesh Kumar Thakur ','Variability-studies-on-M3-Population-of-Soybean-(Glycine-max-L.-Merill.)-Sandip-P-Patil-52.pdf','',1,'An experiment was conducted focussing on creation of variability in soybean crop. Three soybean genotypes were evaluated for variability induced by gamma rays and EMS mutagens for yield and yield attributing traits. Population generated from treatments with four doses of gamma rays and three concentrations of EMS along with control laid into randomized complete block design with three replications for evaluation. The experimental findings revealed that EMS had more pronounced effect in inducing the variability as compared to gamma rays. The higher estimates of GCV, PCV, heritability and GA as per cent mean was recorded by 0.2 per cent EMS treatment for most of the characters like plant height, number of pods per plant, 100 seed weight and seed yield per plant particularly in Soybean genotype TAMS 38 and RSC 10-46, whereas days to 50 % flowering, number of branches per plant, days to maturity, number of seeds per pod, oil content and protein content showed low to moderate magnitude of variability parameters in all soybean genotypes.','EMS, Gamma rays, GCV, PCV, Soybean, Variability','Ethyl methane sulphonate mutagen found effective in inducing variability and in characters showing high estimates of variability simple selection may be rewarding.','-','Sandip P. Patil, Sunil Kumar Nag, Satish S. Nichal and Dinesh Kumar Thakur (2023). Variability studies on M3 Population of Soybean (Glycine max L. Merill.). Biological Forum – An International Journal, 15(7): 319-322.'),(7022,'161','Potential of Ecotourism with Reference to Livelihood of Local People: Amarkantak Region, Madhya Pradesh','Satya Prakash Vishwakarma, R. K. Prajapati, Yogesh Dubey and Sarita Bodalkar ','Potential-of-Ecotourism-with-Reference-to-Livelihood-of-Local-People-Amarkantak-Region,-Madhya-Pradesh-Satya-Prakash-Vishwakarma-53.pdf','',1,'The present investigation was carried out on “Potential of Ecotourism with Reference to Livelihood of Local People: Amarkantak Region, Madhya Pradesh”. The study was conducted in Anuppur forest division during 2021-2023. The observations were recorded in different villages of Amarkantak ecotourism spots and nearby villages; the findings showed a regular flow of tourists and a high level of satisfaction among tourists. During this investigation several suggestions have been gathered from forest-dependents and local people, such as local people should be given the job opportunity in the management of tourist spots. So that their source of income can be increased and it is necessary to provide enough facilities for both the preparation of meals and proper drinking water consumption. Amarkantak is renowned for its attractive scenic beauty of flora and wildlife. These areas are blessed with varieties of Waterfalls (Kapil Dhara, Dudh Dhara and Sambhu sarovar), tracking rout (Laxman Dhara, Sambhu Dhara, Kapil Dhara, Maa ki bagiya, Panch Dhara, and Kabir chabutara), Temples (Narmada, Son, Jaleshwar, Amareshwar, Maa ki bagiya, and Jain temple), Scenic beauty spots like; Sambhu sarovar, Surise point, sun set point, Kapil Dhara, Dharampani and other more spots are available. The tourists visiting in India, getting a rich experience regarding the country\'s biodiversity and natural beauty. Ecotourism is becoming more and more critical every day. Not only are people becoming more aware of sustainability, but it also handles social, cultural, and economic problems. This paper focuses on the local people and ecotourism destinations in and around Amarkantak ecotourism spot. It was observed and recorded that more no of unexplored tourist spots were identified and documented which are having lot of scenic beauty and potential to attract more no of people. ','Ecotourism, Livelihood, Local People, Flora, Waterfall, Amarkantak','Madhya Pradesh particularly Amarkantak having its vast resources in the form of natural landscape, Biodiversity, heritage sites and adventure site has got tremendous potential in term of promoting ecotourism. Now a day’s ecotourism has become very important for the areas having rich cultural and biological heritage. Presently in Amarkantak there are major three tourist spot namely Narmada where the Narmada and Sone River is originated, Kapil Dhara and Dudh Dhra waterfall where tourists are visiting. We have explored some important scenic beauty spots and waterfall which may be developed for tourist point of view in future this will help to increase the tourist flow in round the year.','-','Satya Prakash Vishwakarma, R. K. Prajapati, Yogesh Dubey and Sarita Bodalkar (2023). Potential of Ecotourism with Reference to Livelihood of Local People: Amarkantak Region, Madhya Pradesh. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 15(7): 323-332.'),(7023,'161','Assessment of variability Parameters in Indigenous and Exotic Genotypes of Durum Wheat (Triticum durum Desf.)','Avadhoot B. Dharmadhikari, Abhay Dashora, Urmila, Himansuman, Parul Gupta and Payal Agarwal ','Assessment-of-variability-Parameters-in-Indigenous-and-Exotic-Genotypes-of-Durum-Wheat-(Triticum-durum-Desf.)-Avadhoot-B-Dharmadhikari-54.pdf','',1,'Durum wheat is a versatile cereal crop, offers a rich source of protein, carbohydrates and minerals making it a valuable addition to a balanced diet. To study the genetic variability, genotypic and phenotypic coefficient of variation, broad sense heritability and genetic advance in durum wheat, a field experiment was conducted during Rabi, 2022-23 at RCA, MPUAT, Udaipur to gain a deeper understanding of the genetic makeup of durum wheat. The experiment laid out in a Randomized Block Design (RBD) with three replications, comprised of 36 genotypes and observations on 15 traits of durum wheat were recorded. In this experiment, analysis of variance indicated that significant variation was present among the different genotypes of the durum for all the traits under study. Among the traits studied, grain yield per plant, grain weight per spike, number of grains per spike, peduncle length and 1000-grain weight displayed the highest values for both genotypic coefficient of variation (GCV) and phenotypic coefficient of variation (PCV). Additionally, traits such as days to maturity, number of grains per spike, 1000-grain weight and length of the main spike exhibited high heritability and high genetic advance. The combination of high heritability and high genetic advance provides a clear understanding of the potential of the traits for selection in crop improvement programs. These findings can help in the finding potential donor genotypes those can be further explored for hybridization and genetic improvement strategies to enhance the desired traits in durum wheat.','Triticum durum, Variability, Heritability, Genetic gain, GCV, PCV','Based on the findings of the present study, it can be concluded that the phenotypic coefficient of variation (PCV) slightly surpasses the genotypic coefficient of variation (GCV) for most traits, indicating minimal influence of environmental variations on these characteristics. The traits exhibiting the highest values for both GCV and PCV include the number of grains per spike, grain weight per spike, peduncle length, grain yield per plant and harvest index indicates the presence of wider variability for these traits in the genotypes studied. The combination of the high heritability and high genetic advance provide a clear image of the traits in the selection process for crop improvement programme.','-','Avadhoot B. Dharmadhikari, Abhay Dashora, Urmila, Himansuman, Parul Gupta and Payal Agarwal (2023). Assessment of variability Parameters in Indigenous and Exotic Genotypes of Durum Wheat (Triticum durum Desf.). Biological Forum – An International Journal, 15(7): 333-337.'),(7024,'161','Exploring of Biosurfactant Producing Bacterial Isolates Combined with Plant Growth Promoting Activities','Arati, Tamilvendan, K., G. Selvakumar, P. S. Benherlal, N. Earanna and Y. A. Nanja Reddy ','Exploring-of-Biosurfactant-Producing-Bacterial-Isolates-Combined-with-Plant-Growth-Promoting-Activities-Arati-55.pdf','',1,'The biosurfactants are the pool of secondary metabolites that are bounteously extravasated by multifarious microorganisms either extracellularly into the culture broth or anchored to the cell surface where from they are released. These biosurfactants are engrossed in crop growth and improvement as an appealing alternative to synthetic surfactants. There is paucity of information on biosurfactant having plant growth promoting activities. Hence, the present investigation was taken up to uncover the plant growth stimulating potential of efficient biosurfactant producers chosen after rigorous screening by qualitative and quantitative assays in particular oil spreading test, drop collapse assay, penetration assay, emulsification assay, bacterial adhesion to hydrocarbon (BATH) assay and surface tension reduction test. The seven bacterial isolates (BPB-17, BPB-34, BPB-48, BPB-49, BSB-18 and BSB-24) which were screened and selected from the previous study were evaluated for plant growth-promoting properties viz., PO4 solubilization, siderophore production, ammonia production, zinc and potassium solubilization, N2- fixation and ACC deaminase activity. Significant increases in plant growth-promoting traits were registered by isolate BPB-17 mainly phosphate solubilization (2.4 mg/L), ammonia production (1.98 mg/L) and K- solubilization (2.46 mg/L). While the isolate BPB-48 recorded significant siderophore production (76.88 %) and Zn solubilization (2.71 mg/L). ','Microorganisms, Biosurfactant, plant growth promoting potential, solubilization','Biosurfactants are amphiphilic compound that possesses the ability to reduce surface tension between solids, liquids, and gases interface in addition these are found to induce the production of plant growth-promoting substances. The present study illustrates the significance of biosurfactant producers screening for plant growth-promoting traits under in vitro conditions. These biosurfactant producers having a plant growth-promoting activity is an additional advantage for enhanced crop productivity in contaminated areas. The isolates BPB-17 and BPB-48 showed significant PGP activities and these isolates can be used for the inoculant development for enhancing crop growth and yield.','-','Arati, Tamilvendan, K., G. Selvakumar, P. S. Benherlal, N. Earanna and Y. A. Nanja Reddy (2023). Exploring of Biosurfactant Producing Bacterial Isolates Combined with Plant Growth Promoting Activities. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 15(7): 338-348.'),(7025,'161','Physicochemical Analysis of Dietary Fibre Enriched Prebiotic Biscuit','Rita Mondal, Moumita Das, Pragya Tiwari and Ranajit Kumar Khalua ','Physicochemical-Analysis-of-Dietary-Fibre-Enriched-Prebiotic-Biscuit-Ranajit-Kumar-Khalua-56.pdf','',1,'This research study\'s primary goal was to assess the physicochemical analysis of freshly made biscuits. In this study, control biscuits were made without prebiotics, while experimental biscuits were made with varying prebiotic dosages. A prebiotic was used, oat powder. Customers\' interest was piqued by the nutritional content of bakery goods and their potential for use in feeding programmes and crises. Physical and chemical tests revealed that the experimental treatment combination had a higher concentration of dietary fibre.','Bakery products, carbohydrate, dietary fibre, fat, physicochemical analysis, prebiotics, protein, oats','Following a carbohydrate descriptive statistical analysis, it was discovered that the average carbohydrate content of the control (T0) biscuit was 42.26% and the average carbohydrate content of the experimental biscuit was 61.83, 65.72 and 67.81, respectively. Protein content in control (T0) biscuits averaged 3.35%, while it was 4.61, 4.62 and 4.68 in experimental biscuits, respectively. Additionally, it was discovered that the average fat content of control (T0) biscuits was 12.53 percent, whereas the average fat content of experimental biscuits was 13.59, 13.65, and 13.68 percent, respectively. After conducting a descriptive statistical analysis of the ash content, it was discovered that the control (T0) biscuit\'s mean ash content was 1.48% and the mean ash contents of the experimental biscuits were, respectively, 1.95, 2.16 and 2.24. The mean value of ash content of the control (T0) biscuit was 1.26%, while the mean value of ash content of the experimental biscuit was 1.53, 1.64 and 1.69, respectively, according to descriptive statistical analysis of moisture content. Following a descriptive statistical study of the dietary fibre content, it was discovered that the control (T0) biscuit\'s mean ash content was 2.28% and the experimental biscuit\'s mean ash content was 6.70, 7.29 and 7.89, respectively.','-','Rita Mondal, Moumita Das, Pragya Tiwari and Ranajit Kumar Khalua (2023). Physicochemical Analysis of Dietary Fibre Enriched Prebiotic Biscuit. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 15(7): 349-354.'),(7026,'161','Consequences of Mercury and Cadmium-Induced Stress on Morphological Changes in Indian Mustard','Bala Abhinav Sai Mentada, Rohan Chakraborty and Anaytullah Siddique','Consequences-of-Mercury-and-Cadmium-Induced-Stress-on-Morphological-Changes-in-Indian-Mustard-Anaytullah-Siddique-57.pdf','',1,'Heavy metals are creating big challenges for the scientific community because it creates many problems in which some of them are the absorption and translocation of water and minerals which is a basic need of any plant for normal growth and development. Hence to understand its severity a pot-based heavy metal study was carried out to investigate the deteriorative impact of HgCl2 and CdCl2 on morphological and yield-attributing traits in the Indian mustard variety T-59. To evaluate the impact of HgCl2 and CdCl2, plant height (cm), fresh and dry weight plant-1 (g), total leaf area Plant-1, LAI, CGR, and SPAD reading, the average length of siliqua, the number of siliqua plant-1 and seeds siliqua-1 were considered. The results of the current study indicated the gradual reduction in the growth of entire traits studies concerning the elevation of concentrations of both heavy metals ranging from 1.5 to 5.0 mM. Among the treatments, the highest reduction was detected in T4 of both heavy metals. The maximum % reduction was recorded at 30 DAS compared to 60 and 90 DAS in the entire set of traits while the comparative analysis among the heavy metal (HgCl2 and CdCl2) indicated that HgCl2 is more toxic compared to CdCl2 for the morphological traits of Indian mustard.','Cadmium chloride, LAI, mercury chloride, morphological trait, Indian mustard','The findings of the present investigation are based on HgCl2 and CdCl2-inducedstress on morphological traits, growth analysis, and yield attributing characters in mustard. The findings of the results can be concluded as the concentrations of both the heavy metal increased, and a gradual reduction in the entire traits was detected. Thus, the growth was stunted and yield attributes were attempted limited growth. Additionally, it can also be concluded that the heavy metal HgCl2 was found to be more harmful than cadmium (CdCl2) in terms of its influence on growth and development. Further studies could focus on developing strategies to reduce the influence of heavy metal stress on crop growth and yield.','-','Bala Abhinav Sai Mentada, Rohan Chakraborty and Anaytullah Siddique (2023). Consequences of Mercury and Cadmium-Induced Stress on Morphological Changes in Indian Mustard. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 15(7): 355-359.'),(7027,'161','Effect of Various Mulching Material on Yield and Quality of Strawberry (Fragaria x ananassa Duch.) cv. Winter Dawn','Ashish Singh, V.M. Prasad, Samir E. Topno and Ravi Kumar Singh','Effect-of-Various-Mulching-Material-on-Yield-and-Quality-of-Strawberry-(Fragaria-x-ananassa-Duch.)-cv.-Winter-Dawn-Ashish-Singh-58.pdf','',1,'A research entitled “Effect of various mulching material on yield and yield attributes of strawberry (Fragaria × ananassa Duch.) cv. Winter Dawn” was completed during the academic years 2020-2021 and 2021-2022 at the Research Farm of the Department of Horticulture at Sam Higginbottom University of Agriculture, Technology & Sciences in Prayagraj (U.P.). Eleven treatments using different mulching material were tested in a Randomised Block Design with three replicates. Treatments were namely T1 Control (Without Mulching), T2 Wheat straw (5 t/ha), T3 Paddy straw (5 t/ha), T4 Coconut husk (5t/ha), T5 Paddy husk (5 t/ha), T6 Saw dust (5 t/ha), T7 Cut grass (5 t/ha), T8 Green polythene (200 gaze), T9 Blue polythene (200 gaze), T10 Transparent polythene (200 gaze), T11 Black polythene (200 gaze). The main goal of the experiment was to ascertain how different mulching materials affected strawberry yield and qualitative attributes. According to the findings of this study, application of treatment T11 Black polythene (200 gaze) proved to be most effective mulching material to increase yield and qualitative traits of strawberry.','Strawberry, Mulching, yield and quality attributes','According to the results of the current experiment, black polythene mulch treatment (T11) had a more positive impact than other treatments on the yield and quality characteristics of strawberry cv. Winter Dawn. Black polythene mulch has been found to boost strawberry plant growth, yield, and health despite the absence of synthetic inputs by releasing substances into the rhizosphere that may prevent several diseases as biocontrol agents. The strawberry producers can use this method of strawberry cultivation to increase their output and productivity. Overall, growers of strawberries might be advised to use this treatment to achieve high yield per hectare in a safe and cost-effective manner.','-','Ashish Singh, V.M. Prasad, Samir E. Topno and Ravi Kumar Singh (2023). Effect of Various Mulching Material on Yield and Quality of Strawberry (Fragaria × ananassa Duch.) cv. Winter Dawn. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 15(7): 360-365.'),(7028,'157','Formulation and Development of Nanoparticles of Quassia Amara for Treatment of Diabetes','Kanchan B. Bendkule, Ashish Y. Pawar, Khanderao R. Jadhav, Jahnavi D. Borse and Madhura S. Chothave ','Formulation-and-Development-of-Nanoparticles-of-Quassia-Amara-for-Treatment-of-Diabetes-Ashish-Y-Pawar-244.pdf','',1,'The green synthesis of nanoparticles uses plant components as reducing agents to create silver nanoparticles, including carbohydrates, lipids, enzymes, flavonoids, terpenoids, polyphenols, and alkaloids. The most common cases reported in all over world are those related to diabetes mellitus. Type 2 diabetes makes up about 90% of cases of diabetes, with the other 10% due primarily due to type 1diabetes mellitus and gestational diabetes. Green synthesis of nanoparticles provides nanomaterial benefits ranging from antidiabetic properties to natural reducing properties and stabilizing properties. Due to its insolubility in water, the diabetic drug Quassia amara L. has a poor bioavailability. The purpose of this study is to increase solubility of drug by formulating novel Quassia amara L. nanoparticles using the solvent evaporation method; thus, enhancing bioavailability. Drug and excipient compatibility study was carried out by FTIR. The prepared formulations were evaluated for visual examination, percentage yield, drug entrapment efficiency, drug content, FTIR, particle size, polydispersity index, zeta potential, SEM, In-vitro drug release, kinetic assessment study and In vitro antidiabetic study. The optimized formulation shows particle size 148.5nm. The zeta potential was found to be -28mV while Entrapment efficiency was found to be 92.5%. Maximum drug release can be confirmed through in-vitro testing. i.e., 82.99 % in 8hr. comparison of alpha-amylase inhibition of the acarbose and Quassia amara L. nanoparticles shows anti-diabetic activity. ','Nanoparticles, Quassia amara L., Diabetes, Poly-dispersity index, Zeta potential, Entrapment efficiency','The developed formulation exhibits good organoleptic qualities, according to all the observations and results. When both drug and excipient were characterised, no undetectable peaks were found in the FT-IR study. The entrapment efficiency was found to be optimised formulation is 92.5%. the drug content of prepared nanoparticles ranges between 71.5% to 53.7%. Th particle size of then a no particles is 148.5 nm. The zeta potential was found to be -28 mV, which indicates good formulation stability. One of the main benefits of nanoparticles over conventional drug administration is this. The in-vitro drug release study confirmed that Quassia amara L. was released for a long time. The kinetic assessment of in-vitro release of Quassia amara L. nanoparticles was also performed. Finally, we derived from this comprehensive analysis that site-specific activity can be successfully achieved using Quassia amara L. nanoparticle formulation.','-','Kanchan B. Bendkule, Ashish Y. Pawar, Khanderao R. Jadhav, Jahnavi D. Borse and Madhura S. Chothave (2023). Formulation and Development of Nanoparticles of Quassia Amara for Treatment of Diabetes. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 15(5): 1616-1626.'),(7029,'159','Improper usage of Cooking Fuel, Electricity, Kitchen and Plastic Waste Role in increasing Carbon Footprint','Swati Inani and Prakash Panwar','Improper-usage-of-Cooking-Fuel,-Electricity,-Kitchen-and-Plastic-Waste-Role-in-increasing-Carbon-Footprint-Swati-Inani-111.pdf','',1,'Climate change, linked to the Industrial Revolution\'s onset, is primarily driven by widespread fossil fuel usage, high energy consumption, and deforestation. Household activities, relying heavily on electricity and generating kitchen, plastic, and cooking fuel waste, contribute significantly to carbon emissions. This study conducted in Bhilwara district, Rajasthan, surveyed 480 women in rural and urban areas. The findings indicate that both rural and urban respondents display inadequate carbon footprint practices, with few showing average practices and none demonstrating good practices. Despite challenges, the research provided valuable insights, allowing for customized interventions and gender-sensitive policies to effectively combat climate change in Bhilwara (Rajasthan).','Cooking fuel, electricity, kitchen waste, plastic waste, carbon footprint, carbon emission','In conclusion, the study\'s findings suggest that both rural and urban communities have poor practices related to carbon footprint, which has made human a significant contributor to carbon emissions and responsible for carbon footprint. To combat climate change, it is essential to create awareness and education about the impact of daily practices on the environment, as well as to implement policies and regulations that promote sustainable practices and reduce carbon emissions. Only through collaborative efforts can we mitigate the negative effects of carbon emissions on the environment and ensure a sustainable future for generations to come.','-','Swati Inani and Prakash Panwar (2023). Improper usage of Cooking Fuel, Electricity, Kitchen and Plastic Waste Role in increasing Carbon Footprint. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 15(6): 720-728.'),(7030,'159','Micromorphological Observations of Canscora alata (Roth) Wall - A Potent Medicinal Plant','S. Kavuthami and G. Jayanthi','Micromorphological-Observations-of-Canscora-alata-(Roth)-Wall-A-Potent-Medicinal-Plant-G-Jayanthi-112.pdf','',1,'The research work aims to study the micromorphological standards of Canscora alata belonging to the family Gentianaceae. Diagnostic anatomical characters include glandular trichome, epidermal fragments with anisocytic stomata, oil globules, spiral vessel, pitted paranchyma and sclereids with brown content are stable characteristic features of the study plant which help in the identification of plant at microscopic levels and have been considered as important in the classification of angiosperms. These features impart theoretical value and contribute to the enrichment of the already available information on the data of the genus Canscora and family Gentianaceae.','Canscora alata, Gentianaceae, Pharmacognosy, anatomy, anisocytic stomata','The research work will provide pharmacognostical standards for the identification of the study plant Canscora alata. This will be tremendously useful in determining the purity and quality of the genuine raw drugs, probing in to standard herbal drug preparations.','-','S. Kavuthami and G. Jayanthi (2023). Micromorphological Observations of Canscora alata (Roth) Wall - A Potent Medicinal Plant. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 15(6): 729-734.'),(7031,'161','Effect of Organic and Inorganic Fertilizers on Yield of Pomegranate (Punica granatum L.) under Precision Farming','Maksudan, G.D. Sahu, Aditya Gaurha, Yamini and Gulab Das Barman','Effect-of-Organic-and-Inorganic-Fertilizers-on-Yield-of-Pomegranate-(Punica-granatum-L.)-under-Precision-Farming-Maksudan-59.pdf','',1,'The present study includes the effect of organic and inorganic fertilizers on growth and quality of pomegranate (Punica granatum L.) under precision farming was carried out at during the year 2020 – 2021 at PFDC (Precision Farming Development Centre), Department of fruit science, College of Agriculture, Indira Gandhi Krishi Vishwavidyalaya Raipur. The two to three year old pomegranate tree cv. Super Bhagwa were selected. The experiment was laid out in a Randomized Block Design with 10 treatments and three replications of each. The maximum yield parameter viz., fruit weight (g), fruit volume (cc), number of fruit per plant, weight of fruit per plant (kg), weight of aril per fruit (g) and peel weight per fruit (g) was recorded under the treatment T9 - 80% of RDF + Vermiwash + Cow urine through drip (1 litre/week) was significantly highest. During the course of experimental work, infestation of diseases and insect-pest was observed by the application of organic and inorganic fertilizers which was readily managed.','Cowurine, vermiwash, organic fertilizer, inorganic fertilizer and pomegranate','According to the findings of the current study, only organic sources could satisfy the nutritional needs of pomegranates without compromising yield characteristics. The yield parameter was shown to be better affected by the organic and inorganic fertilizer treatments T9 - 80% of RDF + Vermiwash + Cow urine by drip (1 litre/week). The best way to increase the yield parameter for pomegranate fruits, including fruit weight (g), fruit volume (cc), number of fruit per plant, weight of fruit per plant (kg), weight of aril per fruit (g) and peel weight per fruit (g), was to apply 80% of the recommended dose of fertilizer using water soluble fertilizer + Vermiwash + cow urine.','-','Maksudan, G.D. Sahu, Aditya Gaurha, Yamini and Gulab Das Barman (2023). Effect of Organic and Inorganic Fertilizers on Yield of Pomegranate (Punica granatum L.) under Precision Farming. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 15(7): 366-369.'),(7032,'161','Agroforestry as a Mechanism for Reforestation: Scenarios within REDD+','Singh A.K., Singh B.K., Kumar N.M. Agnihotri D., Karada M.K. and R. Singh\r\n','Agroforestry-as-a-Mechanism-for-Reforestation-Scenarios-within-REDD+-Alok-Kumar-Singh-60.pdf','',1,'Agroforestry, the deliberate management of trees on farms, is not explicitly included in REDD+ or the current UNFCCC mechanisms. However, many agroforestry systems can be integrated into REDD+ by meeting the UNFCCC forest definition, which sets specific land area, tree crown cover, and tree height criteria. Approximately 46% of global agricultural land already meets at least 10% tree cover, with Southeast Asia and Central America at 50%, and Sub-Saharan Africa at about 15%. These figures indicate that most tree crop production and agroforestry systems qualify as forests under REDD+. Agroforestry contributes to REDD+ in two ways: by meeting specific forest definitions and being part of a broader landscape strategy. It has the potential to reduce degradation by providing sustainable timber and fuelwood, reducing reliance on distant forests. Such study even faces challenges in assessing the socio-economic impacts, monitoring carbon sequestration in agroforestry systems, and implementing policies that incentivize farmers to adopt agroforestry practices for successful reforestation within the framework of REDD+. To effectively contribute to REDD+ and INDCs goals, factors like market infrastructure, tree rights policies, and safeguards must be addressed. Recognizing the benefits of emission reductions, biodiversity preservation, and improved livelihoods, countries should prioritize agroforestry in their REDD+ strategies to enhance its role in achieving the objectives of REDD+ and INDCs. challenges in assessing the socio-economic impacts, monitoring carbon sequestration in agroforestry systems, and implementing policies that incentivize farmers to adopt agroforestry practices for successful reforestation within the framework of REDD+.','Agroforestry, CDM, Climate change, GHG emissions, INDCs, REDD+','Agroforestry has the potential to play a significant role in REDD+ programs, contingent on how each country defines its forests. By incorporating agroforestry into REDD+, it can serve as a viable and sustainable pathway for intensification and diversification, effectively curbing deforestation. Notably, the demand for fuel wood, charcoal, and timber acts as primary drivers of forest degradation. However, agroforestry can address this issue by increasing on-farm timber and fuel wood production, thereby reducing the pressures on natural forests.\r\nAgroforestry also helps REDD+ projects that focus on improving and preserving carbon stocks. Through the intentional integration of trees on farms, agroforestry can mitigate emissions from forest degradation while fostering sustainable land use practices. Moreover, agroforestry provides an increasing agricultural yield is a chance for farmers to boost their revenue, making it a key driver in climate change mitigation efforts. By embracing agroforestry as part of their REDD+ strategies, countries can harness its multiple benefits to foster sustainable development and combat climate change.\r\n','-','Singh A.K., Singh B.K., Kumar N.M. Agnihotri D., Karada M.K. and R. Singh (2023). Agroforestry as a Mechanism for Reforestation: Scenarios within REDD+. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 15(7): 370-377.'),(7033,'151','Marriage as a Lived Experience for Maritally Separated Women: A Study Report','Suhana Verma','Marriage-as-a-Lived-Experience-for-Maritally-Separated-Women-A-Study-Report-Suhana Verma-6.pdf','',1,'Marriage, a pivotal life stage in Indian society, is typically viewed as a lasting commitment where divorce carries stigma and is generally undesired. This qualitative study engaged 15 non-working Indian-Hindu women from Delhi through in-depth interviews, offering an insider\'s viewpoint on their experiences of marriage, separation, and life post-divorce. Thematic analysis highlighted key aspects such as conceptualizations of marriage, utilized coping strategies, and personal growth following separation. Although insightful, this study\'s scope is limited by its modest sample size and singular geographic focus. This research thus calls for additional exploration into the impacts of divorce across genders and diverse cultural and geographical contexts, as well as the need for longitudinal studies. Notably, the results emphasize the necessity for increased awareness of domestic violence, gender sensitivity, and the value of marriage counseling. The profound insights from this study offer a valuable resource for family life educators, therapists, researchers, and counselors, empowering divorced women and fostering positive changes within relationships.','Marriage, qualitative study, divorce, women\'s experiences, stigma, counseling, contributions, limitations','This study sought to investigate the complex lived experiences of marriage among fifteen women from high and middle-class families in Delhi who have experienced marital separation. Despite numerous accounts of dissatisfaction within their marriages, the vast majority of participants acknowledged the cultural normativity of marriage, approaching it with an inherent sense of inevitability. Marriage was often perceived as an immutable institution, with societal pressures playing a significant role in propelling women toward this path.\r\nThese women found themselves adopting a flexible approach within the marriage, often modifying their behaviors and conceding to various marital norms in order to harmonize with their new families, even in the face of unexpected challenges and adversities. Notably, factors such as financial dependence, perceived permanence of marriage, the existence of children, the social stigma associated with divorce or separation, and the fear of solitude were identified as significant impediments to initiating the process of divorce.\r\nFurthermore, the study unveiled participants\' conception of an ideal spouse. They portrayed a desirable husband as one who provides emotional care, promotes equality, and shows respect. An ideal wife, conversely, was depicted as proficient in domestic duties and family care. Alarmingly, the study also underscored that women were frequently objectified, and expected to conform to societal roles and responsibilities, often at the cost of their personal autonomy and privacy. This study serves as a critical exploration of the nuanced reality of marriage within this demographic, offering insights for understanding the constraints, adaptations, and cultural expectations that shape women\'s marital experiences.\r\n','-','-'),(7034,'161','Growth characteristics and Distribution of Zinc Fractions in Barley (Hordeum vulgare L.) Soil as Affected by Zinc-Based Fertilizer in Saline conditions','Yash Vardhan Singh, K. K. Yadav, Kriti Sharma, Kishan Damor, Sachin Kumar Gurjar and Deshraj Meena ','Growth-characteristics-and-Distribution-of-Zinc-Fractions-in-Barley-(Hordeum-vulgare-L.)-Soil-as-Affected-by-Zinc-Based-Fertilizer-in-Saline-conditions-Yash-Vardhan-Singh-61.pdf','',1,'The field experiment conducted during the rabi season of 2021-22 at the Agricultural Research Sub-station in Vallabhnagar, Udaipur, Rajasthan, aimed to assess the influence of zinc-based fertilizers on the growth characteristics and distribution of zinc fractions in the soil of barley (Hordeum vulgare L.) crop. The experimental design followed a split plot arrangement, with main plot treatments consisting of a control, 5 kg Zn per hectare as soil application, and seed treatment with zinc solubilizing bacteria (ZSB) at a rate of 5 ml per kg of seed. The sub plot treatments included a control and three foliar sprays of nano Zn at 5 ml per litre of water, applied at 15, 30, and 45 days after sowing. Each treatment was replicated three times. The soil application of zinc @ 5 kg Zn ha-1 along with foliar spray of nano Zn @ 5 ml per litre of water at 45 days after sowing had significantly influenced plant height and dry matter accumulation at 60 DAS of barley as well as zinc fraction of soil after harvest of barley crop. the combination of conventional zinc fertilizer and foliar spray of nano zinc offers a promising strategy to improve nutrient availability and enhance zinc fraction distribution in the soil after the barley crop\'s harvest. This approach holds potential for optimizing zinc uptake by barley plants and promoting sustainable agricultural practices in regions with zinc-deficient soils.','Foliar application, Soil Application, Nano Zinc, Barley, Zinc Fraction','From the forgoing result, it was concluded that the combined application of the conventional and nano fertilizers significantly alters the growth parameter of barley and distribution of zinc fractions in post-harvest soil of barley crop. The combined application of conventional zinc fertilizer and nano zinc fertilizer can potentially enhance the distribution and availability of zinc fractions in the soil, providing an improved nutrient supply for plants and supporting their growth and development. The synergistic effect of both fertilizers can result in improved solubility, mobility, and bioavailability of zinc in the soil, leading to enhanced zinc fractionation. The combined application of conventional zinc fertilizer and nano zinc fertilizer demonstrated promising results in altering growth parameters of barley and influencing the distribution of zinc fractions in post-harvest soil. This approach has the potential to enhance nutrient availability, promote plant growth, and optimize nutrient management practices in agricultural systems.','-','Yash Vardhan Singh, K. K. Yadav, Kriti Sharma, Kishan Damor, Sachin Kumar Gurjar and Deshraj Meena (2023). Growth characteristics and Distribution of Zinc Fractions in Barley (Hordeum vulgare L.) Soil as Affected by Zinc-Based Fertilizer in Saline conditions. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 15(7): 378-383.'),(7035,'159','RP-HPLC Method Development and Validation for Determination of Lisinopril and Amlodipine in Tablet Dosage form','Ghogare R.C. and Godge R.K.','RP-HPLC-Method-Development-and-Validation-for-Determination-of-Lisinopril-and-Amlodipine-in-Tablet-Dosage-form-Ghogare-RC-113.pdf','',1,'Analytical method development involves screening various column and eluent conditions, method optimization includes iterative testing of various separation conditions of the HPLC method and is performed to achieve the best possible resolution, speed, and reproducibility, robustness testing and method validation.\r\nObjective: The present study was aimed to develop a rapid, accurate, linear, and sensitive and validate high performance liquid chromatographic [RP-HPLC] method for determination of lisinopril and amlodipine in pharmaceutical dosage form. Methods: The chromatographic separation was performed on kromasil-C18 column [4.5 x 250 mm; 5 μm] using a mobile phase consisting of Methanol: 0.1% OPA in water (70:30 v/v). The flow rate is 1.0 ml/min and the detection was carried out at 210nm.\r\nResults: The chromatographic condition, the peak retention time of lisinopril and amlodipine were found to be 1.82 min and 2.68 min respectively. The method was validated as per ICH Q2 R1 guidelines. The calibration curve was found to be linear in the concentration range of 2-30 μg/ml for lisinopril and amlodipin. The limit of detection and quantification was found to be 0.219μg/ml and 0.665μg/ml for lisinopril and 0.228μg/ml and 0.691μg/ml for amlodipine respectively.\r\nConclusion: A new sensitive, simple reverse-phase high-performance liquid chromatography [RP-HPLC] method has been developed and validated for the determination of amlodipine and lisinopril. The proposed method can be used for routine determination of amlodipine and lisinopril.\r\n','Lisinopril, Amlodipine, Method validation, RP-HPLC','Proposed study describes a new RP-HPLC method for the estimation of Lisinopril and amlodipine combination in mixture using simple mobile phase with low buffer concentration compared to the reported method. The method gives good resolution between both the compounds with a short analysis time (<10 min). The method was validated and found to be simple, sensitive, accurate and precise. Percentage of recovery shows that the method is free from interference of the excipient used in the formulation. Therefore, the proposed method can be used for routine analysis of Lisinopril and amlodipine in their combined dosage form.','-','Ghogare R.C. and Godge R.K. (2023). RP-HPLC Method Development and Validation for Determination of Lisinopril and Amlodipine in Tablet Dosage form. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 15(6): 735-738.'),(7036,'163','Antioxidants Profile Versus Hydration Status in Tharparkar Cows during various Environmental Periods from Arid Tracts of Rajasthan','Abhishek Kain, Sunil Arora, Kartar Singh, Nazeer Mohammed and Aarif Khan ','Antioxidants-Profile-Versus-Hydration-Status-in-Tharparkar-Cows-during-various-Environmental-Periods-from-Arid-Tracts-of-Rajasthan-Abhishek-Kain-1.pdf','',1,'In a variety of environmental conditions, this study was aimed at investigating the antioxidant profile in relation to hydration status in Tharparkar cows from Rajasthan\'s dry plains. 180 Tharparkar cows from private dairies in and around the Bikaner region of Rajasthan were examined and determined to be in good health. The blood samples were taken under controlled conditions in three different climatic conditions: mild (October–November), dry (May–June), and humid (July–August). Results from the dry-hot and humid-hot conditions were compared to those from the moderate conditions. Group A and group B cows were created based on their physiological states in each environment. All groups saw their highest levels of antioxidants such vitamins A and C and their highest erythrocyte sedimentation rate in the middle of the day, while the highest levels of packed cell volume were seen in the humid-hot conditions. Group A pregnant dry cows had significantly (p0.05) lower plasma vitamin A and vitamin C values compared to group A pregnant milch cows and non-pregnant milch cows in both environments. Multipara cows in group B had significantly lower mean values of plasma vitamin A and vitamin C than primipara cows in both environments (p≤0.05). Both the A group pregnant cows and the B group multipara animals had a considerably (p≤0.05) larger packed cell volume. On the basis of the study that oxidative stress and hydration state are absolutely affected by various environmental periods. Exploration led to the conclusion that environmental conditions and physiological states profoundly alter oxidative stress and hydration status. Physiologically, pregnant dry, and multipara cows were more susceptible to the effects of high humidity and temperatures.','Tharparkar cows, Vitamin A, Vitamin C, Erythrocyte sedimentation rate, Packed cell volume','On the basis of exploration it could be concluded that environmental ambiences and physiological stages affect the oxidative stress and hydration state utterly and these could be measured in terms of variation in biological markers and physiological parameters. Humid hot caused more stress and physiologically pregnant, dry and multipara cows were more affected than other animals.','-','Abhishek Kain, Sunil Arora, Kartar Singh, Nazeer Mohammed and Aarif Khan (2023). Antioxidants Profile Versus Hydration Status in Tharparkar Cows during various Environmental Periods from Arid Tracts of Rajasthan. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 15(5a): 01-05.'),(7037,'163','Characterizing Phytate Hydrolyzing Fungal isolate using ITS Region Profiling','Suchita P. Bharambe and Swati A. Peshwe','Characterizing-Phytate-Hydrolyzing-Fungal-isolate-using-ITS-Region-Profiling-Suchita-P-Bharambe-2.pdf','',1,'Along with the conventional methods of identification, the advance genome sequencing and computational methods are advantageous for identification of various lives. Enormous databases of nucleotide sequence are now available as a result of advance genome sequencing and computational methods. Such databases can be retrieved, assembled and analyzed for identification of various cells. Identification of a phytate hydrolyzing fungal isolate fsp-4 as Aspergillus terreus was carried out on the basis of macroscopic, microscopic and molecular characterization using ITS sequences. Dealing with complex and diverse fungal communities in various environmental samples was the challenge in characterizing fungal isolate using ITS region profiling, also identifying specific phytate-hydrolyzing fungi amidst the vast array of microbial species.\r\nEven with these challenges, the study contributed significantly to our understanding of phytate hydrolyzing fungi, shedding light on their role in nutrient cycling and their potential applications in agriculture, biotechnology, and environmental remediation. The use of ITS region profiling allows for a more comprehensive and rapid identification of these fungi, enabling researchers to explore their diversity and ecological significance more effectively. The findings from this study may pave the way for developing sustainable agricultural practices and optimizing phytate degradation in various industrial processes, leading to enhanced nutrient availability and reduced environmental impact.\r\n','Genome sequencing, computational methods, Aspergillus terreus, molecular characterization, ITS sequences','The phytate hydrolyzing fungus was identified as Aspergillus terreus using ITS region sequencing. Thus, utilization of ITS region profiling as a molecular tool proved effective in identifying and characterizing phytate-hydrolyzing fungus. This approach enabled a more comprehensive understanding of the fungal populations involved in phytate hydrolysis, offering potential applications in feed industry.','-','Suchita P. Bharambe and Swati A. Peshwe (2023). Characterizing Phytate Hydrolyzing Fungal isolate using ITS Region Profiling. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 15(5a): 06-11.'),(7038,'162','Morphological and Pathogenic Variability among Sclerotium rolfsii Sacc isolates, the Causal Agent of Wheat Foot Rot Disease','Sindhu M.M., P.V. Patil, Kiran B.M. and Supriya M.L.','Morphological-and-Pathogenic-Variability-among-Sclerotium-rolfsii-Sacc-isolates,-the-Causal-Agent-of-Wheat-Foot-Rot-Disease-Sindhu-MM-1.pdf','',1,'The current study intends to evaluate the morpho-pathological variability among S. rolfsii isolates of wheat due to their ability to rapidly adapt and evolve, which will aid in the breeding of foot rot resistance. For this study, Ten isolates of Sclerotium rolfsii Sacc. collected from different wheat growing areas of Northern Karnataka were subjected for isolation from foot rot infected samples and these isolates showed variability with respect to cultural and morphological characters, toxin production and pathogenic ability. Isolates varied in mycelial characters like colony margin, mycelial growth and texture. With respect to sclerotial characters viz., variation in shape, colour, diameter, test weight, number of sclerotial bodies per cm2 and number of days taken to form sclerotial bodies were recorded. Oxalic acid production varied from 1.17 to 2.23 mg/ml. On the basis of pathogenicity, Pathotype-I consists of eight isolates, Pathotype II and III consists of only one isolate Sr DWR4 and Sr DWR1, respectively. Based on overall variability study, the S. rolfsii isolates were classified into two groups. Group I consist of four virulent isolates viz., Sr DWR2, Sr DWR5, Sr BGM2and Sr BGT2 and group II consists remaining six isolates which are less virulent. This study provides information on the genetic divergence and occurrence of pathogenic races and also it will be helpful for the development of effective disease management strategies.','Wheat, Sclerotium rolfsii, Isolates and Variability','Ten isolates of Sclerotium rolfsii Sacc. collected from different wheat growing areas of Northern Karnataka were subjected for isolation from foot rot infected samples and these isolates showed variability with respect to cultural and morphological characters, toxin production and pathogenic ability. Studies on variability within the population in a geographical region are important because these also document the changes occurring in the population. Variation in oxalic acid production in culture filtrate of S. rolfsii isolates is one of the impediments responsible for degrading the host tissue. So, it is necessary to study the variation in production of oxalic acid by different isolates and this information is use full in foot rot resistance breeding.','-','Sindhu M.M., P.V. Patil, Kiran B.M. and Supriya M.L. (2023). Morphological and Pathogenic Variability among Sclerotium rolfsii Sacc isolates, the Causal Agent of Wheat Foot Rot Disease. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 15(8): 01-05.'),(7039,'162','Efficacy of Pruning Intensities and Nutrients Spray on Growth and Quality Parameters of Pomegranate (Punica granatum L.) cv. Bhagwa','Yuvraj Yadav, Rajnee Sharma and T.R. Sharma','Efficacy of Pruning Intensities and Nutrients Spray on Growth and Quality Parameters of Pomegranate (Punica granatum L.) cv. Bhagwa-Rajnee Sharma-2.pdf','',1,'A field experiment entitled efficacy of pruning intensities and nutrients spray on growth and quality parameters of Pomegranate (Punica granatum L.) cv. Bhagwa was conducted at Fruit Research Station, Imaliya, Department of Horticulture, Jawaharlal Nehru Krishi Vishwa Vidyalaya, Jabalpur (M.P.) during 2020-21. Total of 20 treatments combinations of pruning intensity and foliar spray of nutrient were arrange in AFRBD. The pruning intensity and foliar spray of nutrients significantly influence the growth and chemical composition of fruits. The maximum plant height (40.64 cm), shoot length (32.51cm), shoot diameter (2.59 mm) at 90 days after pruning and minimum days taken to first flowering (98.60 days), to first fruit set (115.47 days) and highest number of flowers per shoot (7.21) were recorded under pruning at 20 cm whereas, maximum juice content (52.27 %), TSS (15.32 °Brix), reducing sugar (12.35 % ), total sugars (12.93 % ) and minimum non-reducing sugar (0.87 % ), and acidity (0.36 % ) were recorded under pruning at 60 cm. Similarly, the foliar spray of nutrient bring out significant changes in the growth and quality parameters of the fruits and maximum plant height (39.40 cm), shoot length (30.96), shoot diameter (2.57 mm) at 90 days after pruning and least days were taken to first flowering (100.17), to first fruit set (118 days) and higher number of flowers per shoot (6.58) as well as higher value of juice contain (51.93%), TSS (15.37 0B), reducing sugar (11.74 %), total sugars (12.91 %) and minimum value of non-reducing sugar (0.98 %) and acidity (0.41%) were recorded under the application of 2% Urea + 0.4% Zn + 0.4% B. As regarded, the interaction effect of pruning intensities and foliar application of nutrients showed significant effect on the growth and quality parameters of the fruits and the maximum plant height (47.84 cm), shoot length (34.93 cm), shoot diameter ( 2.66 mm) were recorded at 90 days after pruning as well as minimum day to first flower (95 days), to first fruit set (112.33 days) and maximum number of flowers per shoot (7.80), were recorded with 20 cm pruning in combination with 2% Urea + 0.4% Zn + 0.4% B. As regard the chemical composition of fruit the maximum juice content (55.00 %) and TSS (15.80 °Brix) were recorded under treatment 60 cm pruning along with the foliar spray of Urea (2%) + Zn (0.4%) + B (0.4 %). The quality parameter viz. acidity (0.30%), reducing sugar (12.91 %), non-reducing sugar (0.74 %), total sugars (13.96 %) were recorded under treatment 60 cm pruning along with the foliar spray of Urea (2%) + Zn (0.4%) + B (0.4 %) and did not differ significantly.','Growth, Pomegranate, Quality, Bahar','All the pruning intensities and nutrient application of treatments were found better than control in terms of growth and chemical characteristics of fruit. The pruning intensity of 20 cm was found superior to increase the growth parameters of the fruits and the pruning intensity of 60 cm was found superior for quality parameters of the fruits. As regards to nutrients, then the application of Urea (2%) + Zn (0.4%) + B (0.4%), was found to be superior for both the growth and quality parameters of the fruits. Among the interaction the pruning intensity of 20 cm along with the application of 2% Urea+0.4% Zn+0.4% B, was found to be superior for the growth parameters of the fruits and the treatment pruning at 60 cm along with the application of 2% Urea+0.4% Zn+0.4% B, was found superior to increase the chemical parameters of the fruits. ','-','Yuvraj Yadav, Rajnee Sharma and T.R. Sharma (2023). Efficacy of Pruning Intensities and Nutrients Spray on Growth and Quality Parameters of Pomegranate (Punica granatum L.) cv. Bhagwa. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 15(8): 06-10.'),(7040,'163','Antifungal Potential of Spices and Medicinal Herb against Selected Phytopathogenic Soil-Borne Fungi','Sacchi Sneha, S. Maurya and A.K. Choudhary','Antifungal-Potential-of-Spices-and-Medicinal-Herb-against-Selected-Phytopathogenic-Soil-Borne-Fungi-Sacchi-Sneha-3.pdf','',1,'Indian spices and botanicals are popular for their aromatic and therapeutic properties. Spices possess anti-oxidant, anti-spasmodic and immune boosting potential. Some botanicals besides having medicinal importance also flavor Indian cuisines. These can also be utilized for the management of soil-borne phytopathogens like Sclerotinia sclerotiorum, Rhizoctonia solani and Sclerotium rolfsii. Since overuse of synthetic pesticides against phytopathogens had caused detrimental effect on human health and on the entire ecosystem. Hence; present study focuses on the selection of seven botanicals such as Allium sativum (Garlic), Myristica fragrans (Nutmeg), Piper nigrum (Black pepper), Trachyspermum ammi (Ajwain), Terminalia chebula (Myrobalan), Trigonella foenumgraecum (Fenugreek) and Zingiber officinale (Ginger) for eco-friendly disease management. The selected botanicals were investigated for their in vitro antifungal potential against three deadly soil-borne sclerotia fungi. The efficacies of aqueous extracts of selected spices were compared with two known synthetic fungicides viz., Carbendazim and Mancozeb. At 5% concentration; the aqueous extracts of M. fragrans, P. nigrum, T. chebula and T. ammi showed strong antifungal efficacy by inhibiting 90% mycelial growth of R. solani and S. rolfsii. Similarly; A. sativum and T. ammi extracts inhibited 100% mycelia growth of S. sclerotiorum at 5% concentration. Henceforth, the present finding confirms the presence of fungitoxic component in the selected botanicals which might got solubilize into their aqueous extracts. As compared to synthetic pesticides; use of such spices and herb through crop rotation would increase the soil quality. Even their crude extract spray would lessen the financial burden on farmers. Transformation of the active principle to nano particle would open up the way towards sustainable disease management strategy.','Botanicals, Eco-friendly, antifungal, R. solani, S. rolfsii, S. sclerotiorum','Previous works and the present study on spices and medicinal herb showed that the active principle present within them got exposed in their aqueous extracts (Dutta et al., 2004). The compound present within them showed high degree of antifungal properties against three selected deadly phytopathogens viz. R. solani, S. rolfsii and S. sclerotiorum. The efficacies of these botanicals had similar effect unlike the selected synthetic fungicides namely Carbendazim 50WP & Mancozeb 75WP. This experiment demonstrates that use of spices: the underground crop like garlic, ginger or above ground plants like fenugreek, black pepper and ajwain when introduced through crop rotation system to the field; might even show allelopathic effect against above soils borne sclerotial fungi. The antifungal compounds present within these spices and medicinal herbs when isolated and synthesized as bioformulations would pace up the disease management strategies against soil-borne phytopathogens. ','-','Sacchi Sneha, S. Maurya and A.K. Choudhary (2023). Antifungal Potential of Spices and Medicinal Herb Against Selected Phytopathogenic Soil-Borne Fungi. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 15(5a): 12-16.'),(7041,'162','Cellular Immune Response of Spodoptera litura (Fabricius) to the Potential Entomopathogenic Fungus Metarhizium anisopliae (Metschinkoff) Sorokin','Adama Thanuja, S.J. Rahman, P. Rajanikanth and Bharati N. Bhat ','Cellular-Immune-Response-of--Spodoptera-litura-(Fabricius)-to-the-Potential-Entomopathogenic-Fungus-Metarhizium-anisopliae-(Metschinkoff)-Sorokin-Adama-Thanuja-3.pdf','',1,'This experiment was conducted at Insect Pathology laboratory, Department of Entomology and Central Instrumentation, PJTSAU, Rajendranagar, Hyderabad in order to study the cellular immune response of Spodoptera litura (Fabricius) to the entomopathogenic fungus Metarhizium anisopliae. It would be a cumbersome work to collect the data on hourly basis. Moreover working on the haemolymph and its characteristics of an insect is a very exquisite work. One of the most prevalent and pervasive entomopathogens, M. anisopliae is recognised to be a highly effective bioagent for the control of insects of several orders. A fungal suspension containing 2.03×108 spores ml-1 was applied to larvae in their third instar. Following inoculation, hemolymph samples from treated and untreated larvae were collected at 1, 3, 6, 12, 24, 48, and 72 hours. Plamatocytes (PLs) and Granulocytes (GRs) were found to be the major haemocytes involved in the immune responses of the lepidopteran insects. Total Haemocyte Count (THC), PLs, GRs, Phagocytosis and Nodulation were observed as a part of cellular immune response. The THC, PLs, GRs, Phagocytosis and Nodulation were increased up to 24 HAI and later decreased. Despite these insect defence mechanisms, fungal hyphae development was seen after 72 HAI, which finally caused the host to perish.','Spodoptera litura, Metarhizium anisopliae, Cellular Immune Response, Total Haemocyte Count (THC), Plamatocytes (PLs), Granulocytes (GRs), Phagocytosis and Nodulation','It was observed that when S. litura larvae were treated with the fungal suspension the immune response was increased up to 24 HAI and later decreased. The immune response was high in fungi treated larvae up to specific period of time when compared with the control (Tween 80). Despite these insect defence mechanisms, fungal hyphae development was seen after 72 HAI, which finally caused the host to death.','-','Adama Thanuja, S.J. Rahman, P. Rajanikanth and Bharati N. Bhat (2023). Cellular Immune Response of Spodoptera litura (Fabricius) to the Potential Entomopathogenic Fungus Metarhizium anisopliae (Metschinkoff) Sorokin. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 15(7): 11-17.'),(7042,'162','Performance of Pumpkin (Cucurbita moschata Duchex. Poir) Genotypes for Earliness and Yield Parameters','Aniket Kumar Verma, Pranjal Singh, Avanish Kumar Singh, Jaswant Prajapati, Vaishali Gangwar, Himanshu Singh, V. B. Singh and A. C. Mishra ','Performance-of-Pumpkin-(Cucurbita-moschata-Duchex.-Poir)-Genotypes-for-Earliness-and-Yield-Parameters-Aniket-Kumar-Verma-4.pdf','',1,'An experimental material comprised of 28 germplasm of pumpkin viz., Harp-4, CM-350-SPS, BS-13-1, CO-1-SPS, Harp-10, CO-2-SPS, NDPK-1, NDPK-2, NDPK-3, NDPK-4, NDPK-5, NDPK-6, NDPK-7, NDPK-8, NDPK-9, NDPK-10, NDPK-11, NDPK-12, NDPK-13, NDPK-14, NDPK-15, NDPK-16, NDPK-17, NDPK-18 including three standard checks viz., Arka Chandan, Azad Kaddu and Pusa Vikash. The investigation was carried out in a Randomized Block Design with three replications at the Main Experiment Station of the Department of Vegetable Science at Acharya Narendra Deva University of Agriculture and Technology, Kumarganj, Ayodhya (U.P.) during the summer season. Given experimental results obtained further the present investigation, pumpkin genotypes NDPK-13, Narendra Upkar, NDPK-12, and NDPK-7 produced significantly higher yields than checks (Arka Chandan, Azad Kaddu, and Pusa Vikash). Two genotypes namely NDPK-8 and BS-13-1 were found significant for medium fruit yield per plant. For the maximum number of fruit per plant and minimum node number for the first staminate flower anthesis was observed in the case of NDPK-13 which is promoted to earliness and high yielding. NDPK-12 for the maximum number of primary branches and NDPK-5 for node number at first pistillate flower anthesis at minimum node number when enhancing earliness and fruit yield. Based on overall performance and high fruit yield, genotype NDPK- 13 could be recommended for large-scale cultivation under the agro-climatic condition of north Indian plains.','Pumpkin, Genotype, Earliness, Fruit yield','Given experimental results obtained during the present investigation, pumpkin genotypes NDPK-13, Narendra Upkar, NDPK-12, and NDPK-7 produced significantly higher yields than checks (Arka Chandan, Azad Kaddu, and Pusa Vikash). Two genotypes namely NDPK-8 and BS-13-1 were found significant for medium fruit yield per plant. For a maximum number of fruit per plant and minimum node number for the first staminate flower anthesis was observed in the case of NDPK-13 which is promoted to earliness and high yielding. NDPK-12 for the maximum number of primary branches and NDPK-5 for node number at first pistillate flower anthesis at minimum node number which enhances earliness and fruit yield.','-','Aniket Kumar Verma, Pranjal Singh, Avanish Kumar Singh, Jaswant Prajapati, Vaishali Gangwar, Himanshu Singh, V. B. Singh and A. C. Mishra (2023). Performance of Pumpkin (Cucurbita moschata Duchex. Poir) Genotypes for Earliness and Yield Parameters. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 15(8): 18-21.'),(7043,'163','Epidemiological Study of Canine Diabetes Mellitus in Jaipur Region of Rajasthan','Dilip Singh Meena, Nazeer Mohammed, Dharm Singh Meena, Kartar Singh, Aarif Khan, Yogendra Kumar Meena and Pradeep Kumar','Epidemiological-Study-of-Canine-Diabetes-Mellitus-in-Jaipur-Region-of-Rajasthan-Dilip-Singh-Meena-4.pdf','',1,'Diabetes mellitus is a common endocrine disorder seen in canines and felines. The objective of this study was to investigate the incidence of diabetes mellitus in canines of Jaipur region of Rajasthan. During April 2022 and September 2022, two hundred canines of varying age, gender, and breed were included in our study. Out of two hundred canines, nine cases were diagnosed for diabetes mellitus. The overall incidence rate was 4.5%. The incidence was higher in older canines than in younger ones, with the highest incidence (55.55%) occurring in dogs older than six years. In dogs, females (66.66%) had a considerably greater incidence of diabetes mellitus than males (33.33%). In our study, the most cases of diabetes mellitus were reported in the Labrador breed, followed by two cases in the Pug breed and one case each in the Spitz, Pomeranian, German shepherd and Rottweiler breeds. In our study main challenges were that pets also faced other complications with diabetes mellitus like chronic renal disease, hepatomegaly and muscle degeneration. The owner also need to regular in touch with clinican for routine glucose examination after a regular interval of time.','Diabetes, Jaipur, incidence, canines, Breed','Diabetes mellitus, with an overall incidence of 4.5 percent were found in this study. It is a disease of middle and old aged dogs. The study showed that highest incidence in dogs more than 6 years of age and females were at increased risk for diabetes mellitus as compared to males. Breed susceptibility with highest incidence shown in Labrador suggested genetic predisposition.','-','Dilip Singh Meena, Nazeer Mohammed, Dharm Singh Meena, Kartar Singh, Aarif Khan, Yogendra Kumar Meena and Pradeep Kumar (2023). Epidemiological Study of Canine Diabetes Mellitus in Jaipur Region of Rajasthan. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 15(5a): 17-21.'),(7044,'163','Standardization of Sterilization Protocol for Explants of Melia dubia Cav.–An Important Short Rotation Tree','Bodalkar Sarita, Prajapati R.K., Mannade Ajit and Vishwakarma S.P.','Standardization-of-Sterilization-Protocol-for-Explants-of-Melia-dubia-Cav.–An-Important-Short-Rotation-Tree-Bodalkar-Sarita-5.pdf','',1,'Soft wood forest species are under extreme pressure all over the world as a result of growing demand to meet out industrial requirements as a raw resource. One of these is the rapidly expanding demand of Melia dubia. Large-scale plants cannot be produced through means of seed for this species. Therefore, the aim of the current research work was to create a protocol for M. dubia multiplication using the tissue culture approach. The key to establishing an aseptic culture is to standardize sterilization procedure, in view of this present investigation was conducted. Nodal explants, taken from mature M. dubiatrees, were subjected to experiments to see how well they could be disinfected. Maximum explants survival percentage 86.66% was obtained with 0.01% HgCl2 for 5 min followed by 73.3% percent with 1% NaOCl for 3 min. Contamination per cent was also least with these two treatments 13.33 % contamination was recorded with 0.01 % HgCl2 for 5 min and 20 % contamination was recorded with 1% NaOCl for 3 min. Overall 0.01% HgCl2 for 5 min produced the best results for sterilization of nodal explants of Melia dubia. The developed sterilization protocol has potential to be successfully employed for micropropagation of M. dubia.','M. dubia, Sterilization, Response, Explant, Fedility, survival','There were differences between the explant responses to various type & concentrations of sterilization agents. For nodal explants sterilization in M. dubia 0.01%HgCl2 was found best & effective sterilizing agent. Over sterilization increased tissue mortality of explants and hence to overcome to this problem, optimized concentration of sterilizing agents & duration is required.\r\nIn case of M. dubia nodal explants surface sterilization with 0.1% (v/v) Polyoxyethylene sorbitan monooleate (Tween - 20; Himedia, India) for 15 min., then 0.1% (w/v) solution of Bavistin (Carbendazim 50% WP- a systemic fungicide) for 30 minutes followed by treatment with 0.01% HgCl2 for 5 min. proved most effective for maximum survival percentage, minimum contamination and no drying of explants, followed by treatment with 1% NaOCl for 3min (Table 1 and Fig. 1).\r\n','-','Bodalkar Sarita, Prajapati R.K., Mannade Ajit and Vishwakarma S.P. (2023). Standardization of Sterilization Protocol for Explants of Melia dubia Cav.–An Important Short Rotation Tree. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 15(5a): 22-25.'),(7045,'163','Maximizing Crop Productivity: Investigating the Impact of Land Use, Sowing Dates, and Wheat Varieties on Chlorophyll Content and APAR under Pongamia pinnata based Agri-silviculture system','Makhan Singh Karada, R. Bajpai, S.B. Agrawal, M.K. Awasthi, Manish Bhan, Alok Kumar Singh and Bipin Kumar Singh ','Maximizing-Crop-Productivity-Investigating-the-Impact-of-Land-Use,-Sowing-Dates,-and-Wheat-Varieties-on-Chlorophyll-Content-and-APAR-under-Pongamia-pinnata-based-Agri-silviculture-sy-Makhan-Singh-Karada-6.pdf','',1,'This study was conducted in JNKVV, Jabalpur, India, assessed the impact of land use systems, sowing dates, and wheat varieties on chlorophyll content and absorbed photosynthetically active radiation (APAR) in a Pongamia pinnata-based Agri-silviculture system. This experiment was conducted over two years in three-factor double split plot design. The open system consistently exhibited higher chlorophyll content and APAR values than the agroforestry system, attributed to improved light penetration and reduced shading effects. Early sowing led to significantly higher chlorophyll content and APAR values due to favorable climatic conditions and prolonged sunlight exposure. The MP-3336 wheat variety consistently displayed superior chlorophyll content, while GW-322 exhibited higher APAR values. Integrating complex interactions between multiple species in the Agri-silviculture system and addressing environmental variability while generalizing results to diverse agro-climatic regions pose challenges. Optimizing land use practices, selecting appropriate sowing dates, and utilizing high-performing wheat varieties are crucial for enhancing chlorophyll production, improving photosynthetic efficiency, and increasing crop productivity in Agri-silviculture systems. Conducting long-term monitoring to assess the system\'s sustainability and productivity, and exploring climate change impacts and economic analysis for informed decision-making are promising areas of future research. ','Agroforestry systems, Pongamia pinnata, wheat varieties, Chlorophyll content, PAR','In conclusion, this study highlights the significant impact of land use systems, sowing dates, and wheat varieties on chlorophyll content and absorbed photosynthetically active radiation (APAR) in a Pongamia pinnata-based Agri-silviculture system. The open system consistently demonstrated higher chlorophyll content and APAR values compared to the agroforestry system, indicating its superiority in promoting light penetration and nutrient availability. Early sowing exhibited higher chlorophyll content and APAR values compared to timely and late sowing, emphasizing the importance of favorable climatic conditions and longer exposure to sunlight for optimal photosynthetic activity. Among the wheat varieties, MP-3336 consistently exhibited superior performance in terms of chlorophyll content, while GW-322 showed higher APAR values at 15 DAS. These findings suggest genetic and varietal differences in chlorophyll biosynthesis and light interception. Overall, optimizing land use systems, selecting appropriate sowing dates, and utilizing high-performing wheat varieties are crucial strategies to enhance chlorophyll production, improve photosynthetic efficiency, and increase crop productivity in Agri-silviculture systems.','-','Makhan Singh Karada, R. Bajpai, S.B. Agrawal, M.K. Awasthi, Manish Bhan, Alok Kumar Singh and Bipin Kumar Singh (2023). Maximizing Crop Productivity: Investigating the Impact of Land Use, Sowing Dates, and Wheat Varieties on Chlorophyll Content and APAR under Pongamia pinnata based Agri-silviculture system. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 15(5a): 26-31.'),(7046,'163','Effect of GA3 on Germination and Seedling Vigour Index in Brinjal Species','Malikireddy Jasmitha, A.V.D. Dorajee Rao, E. Padma, K. Usha Kumari, M. Paratpara Rao, S. Narasimha Rao and B. Srinivasulu','Effect-of-GA3-on-Germination-and-Seedling-Vigour-Index-in-Brinjal-Species-Malikireddy-Jasmitha-7.pdf','',1,'An experiment was conducted to assess the effect of gibberlic acid on germination and seedling vigour index in brinjal species at Department of Vegetable science, College of Horticulture, Venkataramannagudem (A.P.). A total of nine brinjal species (T1: Solanum torvum, T2: Solanum mammosum, T3: Solanum gilo, T4: Solanum indicum, T5: Solanum seaforthianum, T6: Solanum viarum, T7: Solanum aethiopicum, T8: Solanum melongena cv. Pennada Local, T9: Solanum melongena cv. Dommeru Local) were involved in the study. Seeds of these species were soaked in GA3 solution (1000 ppm) for 24 hours in the study. The study revealed that Solanum seaforthianum exhibited the earliest germination. Maximum germination percentage was noticed in Solanum melongena cv. Pennada Local on par with Solanum melongena cv. Dommeru Local. The highest seedling vigour index was observed in Solanum melongena cv. Dommeru Local.','Effect, gibberlic acid, germination and seedling vigour index','The present study revealed that priming with GA3 at the rate of 1000 ppm can be effectively used as a pre-germinative treatment to break the dormancy in brinjal species.','-','Malikireddy Jasmitha, A.V.D. Dorajee Rao, E. Padma, K. Usha Kumari, M. Paratpara Rao, S. Narasimha Rao and B. Srinivasulu (2023). Effect of GA3 on Germination and Seedling Vigour Index in Brinjal Species. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 15(5a): 32-34.'),(7047,'146','Impact of Climate Change on Hydrological components of Indian River Basins - A Comprehensive Review','Sonali Swagatika, Jagadish Chandra Paul, Ambika Prasad Sahu, \r\nSanjay Kumar Raul and Dwarika Mohan Das\r\n','Impact-of-Climate-Change-on-Hydrological-components-of-Indian-River-Basins-A-Comprehensive-Review-SONALI-SWAGATIKA-238.pdf','',1,'The world is facing a water crisis due to unexpected transformations in the hydrologic cycle, which is the primary reason for any natural disaster. This happens due to the growing population and fast urbanization, which hampers the organisation and administration of water resources sustainably.Climate change adversely affects an area\'s ecosystem, wildlife, agriculture, etc., thereby altering the socio-economiclife of many. Most of India\'s people dependon agriculture either directly or indirectly. The productivity from agriculture is immensely decreasing due to the impact of climate variations nationwide.In the twenty-first century, climate change has become a major concern which is mostly prevalent by the human interventions. Climate change may be a global phenomenon, but its impacts are local. Rapid industrialization and urbanisation in India are responsible for massive increase in water demand, leading to a water crisis that is becoming prevalent as the surface and groundwater resources areshrinking due to climate change and other hydrological parameters. A larger number of studies have been reported on climate change\'s impact on water resources, but the understanding of the effects of climate change on India\'s river basins is still incomplete from an interdisciplinary perspective. In order to lessen the impact of climate change on river basins, it is thus appropriate to assess recent research and suggest potential topics for future study.\r\nThis paper comprehensively reviews the significance of climate change on hydrological balance of river basins of India.\r\n','Climate change, climate projection, global warming, water resources','Crop productivity and water resources are being impacted by climate change at an alarming rate.Most of the river basins show an increasing trend in rainfall, temperature and runoff. Increased precipitation and surface runoff has been increasing the intensity of flood. Groundwater is found to behave differently as there is an uprisein some cases under RCP 4.5 scenarios and a decreasing trend in a few instancesunderRCP 8.5. Some basins showoveruse of groundwater.The uneconomical use of groundwater is likely to worsen due to declining surface water resources in many regions.Irrigation for agricultural use isfound to bemore sensitive to climate change.Hence, water-saving irrigation practices would be one of the available techniques to address climate change-related water shortage and food security challenges. It is also recommended to use specific measures like changes in cropping patterns and breeding, and innovative technologies which require less water consumption in the agricultural sector. Decision-making plays a vital role in understanding sustainable risk management, which must be integrated into climate change improvement. \r\nGiven various climate models and emission scenarios, the current summary may be able to give decision-makers useful information on rainfall and temperature trends over Indian river basins. In addition, a review of prior studies aids researchers in identifying climate change-related research questions.\r\n','-','Sonali Swagatika, Jagadish Chandra Paul, Ambika Prasad Sahu, Sanjay Kumar Raul and Dwarika Mohan Das (2022). Impact of Climate Change on Hydrological components of Indian River Basins - A Comprehensive Review. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 14(4): 1334-1341.'),(7048,'161','Assessment of Genetic variability, Heritability and Genetic Advance for Quantitative Traits in Pea (Pisum sativum) Germplasm','Khursheed Alam, Manoj Kumar Singh, Atar Singh, Mukesh Kumar, Satya Prakash, Vipin Kumar, Muzeev Ahmad and Mohd Wamiq','Assessment-of-Genetic-variability,-Heritability-and-Genetic-Advance-for-Quantitative-Traits-in-Pea-(Pisum-sativum)-Germplasm-Khursheed-Alam-62.pdf','',1,'Pea is the most widely cultivated pulse crop in the state of Uttar Pradesh. The main aspect of increasing productivity is the selection of genotypes with higher yields and better quality. Crop improvement needs research and greater understanding of the diversity present in a population base of the crop so that plant breeders can take advantage of it. Fifty-four entries consisting of 10 lines and 4 testers were Line × Tester mating design. 40 F1s used and evaluated in a randomized block design with three replications at the Horticulture Research Centre, Department of Vegetable Science, Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel University of Agriculture and Technology, Meerut during the rabi season of 2022-23. The analysis of variance showed significant differences among the genotypes for all the characters. For all twelve characters under investigated, the mean sum of squares contributes to treatment was found significant, indicating that the materials showed significant variability. The moderate value of phenotypic and genotypic coefficient of variances was recorded for branches per plant, plant height, pod yield per plant, days to first flowering and days to 50% flowering indicating that these traits is controlled by a combination of both additive and non-additive gene actions. The high heritability (broad sense) was revealed for all the characters except pod wight. The high genetic advance as % of mean was recorded for branches per plant, plant height, pod yield per plant and days to first flowering. Whereas, moderate for days to 50 % flowering, green pods per plant, number of seeds per pod, pod diameter, TSS Brix %, days to first green pod picking and pod length. The high heritability coupled with high genetic advance were governed by additive gene action and can be reliable targets for selection in breeding programs to develop improved pea varieties.','Genetic variability, heritability, genetic advance, pea','The present study indicates a substantial degree of variability, heritability and genetic advance for these traits, suggesting that simple selection approaches could be effective in enhancing yield through these specific attributes. ','-','Khursheed Alam, Manoj Kumar Singh, Atar Singh, Mukesh Kumar, Satya Prakash, Vipin Kumar, Muzeev Ahmad and Mohd Wamiq (2023). Assessment of Genetic variability, Heritability and Genetic Advance for Quantitative Traits in Pea (Pisum sativum) Germplasm. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 15(7): 384-388.'),(7049,'163','Development and Quality Evaluation of Chocolate Flavoured Milk blended with Garden Cress Seed Powder and Moringa Seed Powder','Aarathy Bose and Bonela Usha','Development-and-Quality-Evaluation-of-Chocolate-Flavoured-Milk-blended-with-Garden-Cress-Seed-Powder-and-Moringa-Seed-Powder-Aarathy-Bose-8.pdf','',1,'The current investigation was carried out for the standardization of milk, cocoa powder, garden cress seed and moringa seed powder for the development of chocolate flavoured milk. The aim of the study was value addition of flavoured milk with natural herbs thereby increasing its therapeutic value. Cocoa-powder was used as the flavour enhancer. Different formulations with varying composition of milk, cocoa powder, garden cress seed and moringa seed powder were evaluated based on sensory scores. The flavoured milk was standardized accordingly with the sensory score. Four different formulations were tried and and treatment T2 was found to be the optimized formulation which had 6% sugar, 0.5% garden cress seed, 0.5% moringa seed powder and 1% cocoa powder. The colour and appearance, consistency, flavor and taste and overall acceptability were analyzed on 9-point hedonic scale. Physico-chemical properties like moisture (%), total solids (%), fat (%), protein, ash (%), carbohydrates (%) and functional properties like antioxidant activity, crude fibre, specific gravity and viscosity and specific gravity were determined by standard procedure. The data obtained were tabulated and statistically analyzed. The developed flavoured milk was highly nutritious that could be used to achieve adequacy of iron and mineral deficiency especially in women and also suitable for consumption for population of all age group.','Flavoured Milk, Garden Cress Seed, Moringa seed Powder, Cocoa Powder, therapeutic value','The present investigation was on development of chocolate flavoured milk blended with garden cress seed and moringa seed powder. After the sensory analysis and analysis of other chemical qualities, the so developed flavoured milk was found suitable and thereby effectively helped in increasing the therapeutic value of the product. Sensory score of overall acceptability which was higher in treatment T2 showed suitability and acceptance of experimental samples. In the present work, chocolate flavoured milk with 0.5% garden cress seed and 1% moringa seed powder was found to be superior to all other experimental samples. So, it can be concluded addition of moringa seed powder and garden cress to flavored milk increased its therapeutic value and suitability to the consumer. ','-','Aarathy Bose and Bonela Usha (2023). Development and Quality Evaluation of Chocolate Flavoured Milk blended with Garden Cress Seed Powder and Moringa Seed Powder. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 15(5a): 35-38.'),(7050,'163','Domain Analysis and Structural characterization of Bromodomain 8 (BRD8) -Functional Implications and Importance as a Drug Target in Cancer Research','Ambili Savithri, Sindhu Rani J.A., Asha S. Kumar, Anila L., Maya Madhavan, Sabeena Mustafa and Manju L. ','Domain-Analysis-and-Structural-characterization-of-Bromodomain-8-(BRD8)--Functional-Implications-and-Importance-as-a-Drug-Target-in-Cancer-Research-Manju-L-9.pdf','',1,'Bromodomains (BRDs) are readers that bind to acetylated lysine residues in chromatin and regulate gene expression. The crystal structure of BRD8 is not elucidated yet. As BRDs play a significant role in cancer, understanding their functional implications is important for drug discovery. The theoretical model is the only reliable technique when there is no crystal structure available. We have investigated the primary and secondary structures of BRD8 (UniProt Id: Q9H0E9|) using the ExPASy (the Expert Protein Analysis System), ProtParam and SOPMA. A model of BRD8 was determined using the template (PDB Id: 3S91) and BLASTP. The stereochemical quality of the model was validated using Ramachandran Plot (97.1% residues in the most favorable region) and ProSA-web (Z score of -5.79). PTM studies show that there are 10 functional sites present in BRD8, of which Protein kinase C and Casein Kinase II sites were abundant. Protein kinase C controls the signaling pathways in proliferation, tumorigenesis and metastasis, whereas Casein Kinase II regulates apoptosis and cell cycle in cancers. We identified three binding pockets in the model. The results from this study show the relevance of BRD8 in cancer research. Functional and structural research can help provide the basis for further studies, which is significant for the pharmaceutical industry as a whole.','Bromodomain, BRD8, Molecular modeling, Post-translational modifications, Rampage server, SOPMA, cancer','In line with the fundamental biological concept of “Structure implies the Function”, we felt that it is the need of the hour to do a structural characterisation of BRD8 since no such structural models are currently found in the repository. We constructed a three-dimensional structural model of BRD8 using molecular modelling and the quality and reliability of the constructed model was assessed satisfactorily. Further, we could predict the binding pockets present in the validated model. One limitation of this study is that the role of identified residues should be validated using in silico drug binding and dynamics studies which requires sophisticated software facilities. Screening of combinatorial libraries of small molecules or natural compounds is warranted to shortlist a set of compounds before investigating them using wetlab studies.','-','Ambili Savithri, Sindhu Rani J.A., Asha S. Kumar, Anila L., Maya Madhavan, Sabeena Mustafa and Manju L. (2023). Domain Analysis and Structural characterization of Bromodomain 8 (BRD8) -Functional Implications and Importance as a Drug Target in Cancer Research. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 15(5a): 39-51.'),(7051,'163','Studies on Proximate Composition and Cost Structure of Dried Kheer mix using Pumpkin Powder','Shaikh Adil, Gajanan Narnaware, Bhushan Meshram, Anant Dhotre, Hemant Gawande, Nitin Shinde, Vijay Kele and Bhavesh Chavhan','Studies-on-Proximate-Composition-and-Cost-Structure-of-Dried-Kheer-mix-using-Pumpkin-Powder-Shaikh-Adil-10.pdf','',1,'Instant foods are a need of today’s world because of the changing socio-economic pattern of life. Dried kheer mix is one of the convenience food for the preparation of instant kheer. For the preparation of such dried mix, various challenges are occurred such as maintaining the desired nutritional composition and ensuring cost-effectiveness in the production process. The purpose of this study was to investigate the effect of pumpkin powder on the compositional characteristics and cost structure of dried kheer mix. Pumpkin powder (PP) was added to the dry kheer mix varying levels of 1- 4 percent to replace skim milk powder (SMP) by an equal amount, resulting in a final mix that contained 44 percent PP and SMP. The other ingredients such as sugar powder (36 %), rice powder (10 %), hydrogenated fat (7 %), nutmeat powder (2.1 %), cardamom (0.7 %), and colour (0.2 %) by weight were used. Treatment combinations were used as T1 (1 % PP & 43 % SMP), T2 (2 % PP & 42 % SMP), T3 (3 % PP & 41 % SMP), and T4 (4 % PP & 40 % SMP). The product was analyzed for moisture, fat, protein, acidity, reducing sugar, total sugar, and ash content. Results revealed that an increased level of pumpkin powder leads to a significant (P<0.05) decrease in protein and ash contents while an increase in fat content. Other parameters such as moisture, reducing sugar, total sugar content, and lactic acidity were non-significant at a 5 % level of significance. The cost of production was estimated for all the treatments, varying in the range of Rs. 274.62 – Rs. 278.62 per kg of mix. As the level of pumpkin powder in dried kheer mix increases, the cost of production increases. ','Composition, Cost, Dried kheer mix, Kheer, Pumpkin powder','With increases in the rate of addition of pumpkin powder, physico-chemical quality such as fat and acidity of the product increased significantly, while protein and ash content declined. Moisture, total sugar and reducing sugar shows non-significant effect. It was also observed that increasing the amount of pumpkin powder in the kheer mix increased the cost of production. As a result of the current experiment, it can be concluded that reconstituted kheer can be made from a dried kheer mix containing 1% pumpkin powder and 43% skim milk powder at a lower cost than other kheer mixes. Developing such value-added pumpkin products could provide consumers with more variety while also providing nutritional and therapeutic benefits. This food product is easy to use, saves time, and promotes good health, so it can be used in a variety of food-based intervention functions.','-','Shaikh Adil, Gajanan Narnaware, Bhushan Meshram, Anant Dhotre, Hemant Gawande, Nitin Shinde, Vijay Kele and Bhavesh Chavhan (2023). Studies on Proximate Composition and Cost Structure of Dried Kheer mix using Pumpkin Powder. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 15(5a): 52-57.'),(7052,'163','Impact of different rice Establishment Methods and Conservation Tillage on Leaf Chlorophyll Status of Rice and Succeeding rabi Crops','Sheri Vaishnav, V. Ramulu, B. Balaji Naik, Md. Latheef Pasha, T. Ram Prakash, P. Rajaiah and M. Yakadri ','Impact-of-different-rice-Establishment-Methods-and-Conservation-Tillage-on-Leaf-Chlorophyll-Status-of-Rice-and-Succeeding-rabi-Crops-Sheri-Vaishnav-11.pdf','',1,'This research investigated the effects of different rice establishment methods and tillage practices on SPAD readings of rice, chickpea, blackgram, and mustard. The study was conducted over two years (2021-2022 and 2022-23) and evaluated machine transplanting (M1), wet direct seeding (M2) and dry direct seeded rice (M3), as rice establishment methods, along with conventional tillage and zero tillage as tillage practices. With respect to rice dry direct seeding reported significantly higher SPAD values at 30 days after sowing (DAS) but in succeeding stages (60. 90 DAS and harvest) machine transplanting recorded significantly higher SPAD readings over wet and dry direct seeding. SPAD readings of succeeding rabi crops were taken at 30, 60 DAS and harvest for each crop. The results demonstrated that dry direct seeded rice consistently exhibited significantly higher SPAD values compared to the other methods for all three crops in rabi. Conventional tillage also reported higher SPAD readings than zero tillage. The interaction effect between rice establishment methods and tillage practices was found to be significant for SPAD readings in chickpea, blackgram and mustard. Specifically, the combination of dry direct seeded rice with conventional tillage (M3S2) consistently reported the highest SPAD readings in both years for chickpea, blackgram and mustard indicating the significance of dry direct seeding method of rice establishment and conventional tillage practice on succeeding crops.','Blackgram, Chickpea, Mustard, Rice establishment methods, SPAD readings and Tillage practices','The findings suggest that machine transplanting among three rice establishment methods, promotes better leaf chlorophyll content in rice plants, possibly due to enhanced nutrient availability from puddling and continuous submergence of soil. Conversely, dry direct seeded rice displayed lower SPAD values, potentially indicating reduced nutrient availability. These results emphasize the importance of puddled transplanting method of rice. The availability and uptake of nutrients in crops grown after kharif rice are influenced by soil conditions, especially puddling and submergence. While SPAD meter readings were higher in puddled transplanting of rice, subsequent crops did not show similar results. Rabi crops grown in dry direct seeded rice had significantly higher nitrogen content compared (SPAD reading) to puddled systems which is likely due to aerobic conditions prevailed in dry direct seeded rice from the beginning of system supporting soil bacteria and improved nutrient availability. Conventional tillage and legume crops, such as chickpea and blackgram also played a crucial role in enhancing nutrient access. ','-','Sheri Vaishnav, V. Ramulu, B. Balaji Naik, Md. Latheef Pasha, T. Ram Prakash, P. Rajaiah and M. Yakadri (2023). Impact of different rice Establishment Methods and Conservation Tillage on Leaf Chlorophyll Status of Rice and Succeeding rabi Crops. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 15(5a): 58-64.'),(7053,'163','Effect of Integrated Nutrient Management on Nutrient uptake and Economics in Maize under different Microclimatic Regimes','Rinjumoni Dutta, Tapan Gogoi, A.K. Sarmah and K. Kurmi','Effect-of-Integrated-Nutrient-Management-on-Nutrient-uptake-and-Economics-in-Maize-under-different-Microclimatic-Regimes-Rinjumoni-Dutta-12.pdf','',1,'A field experiment was conducted at Assam Agricultural University, Jorhat during summer season of 2020 and 2021 with a view to study the effect of microclimatic regime and integrated nutrient management in maize and also the nutrient uptake by the crop and its availability in soil after harvest. The treatments consisted of three microclimatic regimes viz., M1: 15th February, M2: 1st March and M3: 15th March and four INM practices viz., N1: 100% RDF (60-40-40 kg/ha) N2: 75% of RDN as urea + 25% RDN as vermicompost, N3: 75% of RDN as urea + 25% RDN as FYM and N4: 75% of RDN as urea + 25 % RDN as enriched compost. Experimental findings revealed that highest cob yield obtained in crop sown on 15th March which was at par with 1st March sowing in both the years. Kernel yield and stover yield also followed the same trend. Among the different integrated nutrient management practices application of 75 % of RDN as urea + 25 % RDN as enriched compost recorded highest cob yield, kernel yield and stover yield than RDF, but remain at par with 75 % of RDN as urea + 25 % RDN as vermicompost . The uptake of N, P, K by kernel and stover of maize and total uptake were also highest in 15th March sowing in both the years. Among the INM treatments, the highest N, P and K uptake by kernel, stover and their total uptake were recorded under the treatment 75 % of RDN through urea + 25 % RDN as enriched compost in both the years which remains at par with 75 % of RDN through urea + 25 % RDN as vermicompost. The highest gross return, net return were found in crop sown on 15th March with application of 75 % of RDN through urea + 25 % RDN as enriched compost.','Maize, microclimate, INM, nutrient uptake','From the two year study it can be concluded that maize crop sown on 15th March with 75 % of RDN as urea + 25 % RDN as enriched compost is beneficial in Assam condition.','-','Rinjumoni Dutta, Tapan Gogoi, A.K. Sarmah and K. Kurmi (2023). Effect of Integrated Nutrient Management on Nutrient uptake and Economics in Maize under different Microclimatic Regimes. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 15(5a): 65-70.'),(7054,'161','Characterization of adults of Hodebertia testalis (Fabricius, 1794) (Crambidae: Lepidoptera)','Padmashree S., N. Chitra, T. Elaiyabharathi, L. Nalina and K. Sivasubramanian ','Characterization-of-adults-of-Hodebertia-testalis-(Fabricius,-1794)-(Crambidae-Lepidoptera)-N-Chitra-63.pdf','',1,'Hodebertia testalis (Fabricius, 1794) is a medium sized moth comes under the family Crambidae and subfamily Spilomelinae. It is widespread in Africa, Australia, Southern Europe, Tropical and subtropical Asia. Morphological characterization play a significant role in identification and classification of insects. In the current study, taxonomy of Hodebertia testalis (Fabricius, 1794) (Crambidae: Lepidoptera) collected from medicinal plant Calotropis procera (Apocynaceae) was examined. The morphological characters viz., antenna, labial palpi, wing venation and adult genitalia were studied. Valva has three fibula of which one is prominent and sickle shaped in male genitalia. Corpus bursae is globose, membranous with no signum in female genitalia. ','Hodebertia testalis (Fabricius, 1794), medicinal plant, adult characters, Coimbatore','This study has given information on the adult morphological characters of Hodebertia testalis (Fabricius, 1794). Adult identification characters confirmed based on the presence of coremata, dagger hilt - like uncus, fibula in inner side of tegumen, and absence of cornuti in aedeagus of male genitalia whereas in female genitalia the segment 8 is of well sclerotized and signum is absent in globular corpus bursae.','-','Padmashree S., N. Chitra, T. Elaiyabharathi, L. Nalina and K. Sivasubramanian (2023). Characterization of adults of Hodebertia testalis (Fabricius, 1794) (Crambidae: Lepidoptera). Biological Forum – An International Journal, 15(7): 389-392.'),(7055,'162','Influence of Floral Traits of Jasminum sambac L. Genotypes on Damage by Flower Feeding Insects','Aswini V., Soundararajan R.P., Ganga M., Elaiyabharathi T. and Kannan M. ','Influence-of-Floral-Traits-of-Jasminum-sambac-L.-Genotypes-on-Damage-by-Flower-Feeding-Insects-Soundararajan-RP-5.pdf','',1,'Jasmine is a commercially important flower crop in India and utilized in decoration, religious rituals, perfume industry and so forth. Insect pest damage leads to significant yield reduction as well as quality of jasmine flowers. To restrain the damage, the stake holders are using huge quantity of insecticides which pose several problems in the ecosystem. India has rich diversity and jasmine also has several species and genotypes. Assessing insect pest damage on different genotypes of commonly cultivated Jasminum sambac and its relation with flower morphological traits is an important criteria for development of new resistant varieties and cultivars against flower feeding insects. This will lead to decrease in pesticide spraying. A study was taken up to screen 31accessions of Jasminum sambac (J. s. Acc) against flower feeding insects. Three major flower feeding insects viz., bud worm Hendecasis duplifascialis Hampson, blossom midge Contarinia maculipennis Felt and flower thrips Frankliniella scultzei Trybom were recorded during the period. The incidence of budworm was highest in J. s. Acc. 3 (13.99%) and lowest in J. s. Acc. 16 (2.88%) whereas blossom midge damage was highest in J. s. Acc. 13 (14.24%) and lowest in J. s. Acc. 20 (4.94%). J. s. Acc. 26 had the highest flower thrips infestation (3.33 thrips/flower cluster) and the lowest in J. s. Acc. 15 (1.52 thrips/flower cluster). The present study affirmed that few morphological factors viz., diameter of flower bud, total bud length, bud stalk length and number of petals influenced the damage and susceptibility to flower feeders in jasmine genotypes.','Jasmine, insect pests, flower feeders, genotypes, damage, floral parameters','All the 31 J. sambac accessions screened in the study recorded damage by three flower feeding insects but with significant difference in the level of infestation. The entries also showed significant variation in flower morphology. The major morphological traits of flowers that interferes the susceptibility to pests are diameter of the bud, total bud length and bud stalk length and number of petals. J. s. Acc. 32 was noticed with less infestation and considerable resistant to budworm incidence (3.14%), whereas the incidence of blossom midge (6.70%) and thrips (2.18 thrips/flower cluster) were also low. The accession J. s. Acc. 2 is susceptible to budworm (11.90%), blossom midge (10.05%) and thrips (2.22 thrips/flower cluster).','-','Aswini V., Soundararajan R.P., Ganga M., Elaiyabharathi T. and Kannan M. (2023). Influence of Floral Traits of Jasminum sambac L. Genotypes on Damage by Flower Feeding Insects. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 15(8): 22-27.'),(7056,'146','Association of some Plant Defense Enzyme activities with Systemic Resistance to Bacterial wilt Disease induced in Tomato Plants by Pseudomonas aeruginosa Strain OD13','Anjali Suansia and Akshaya Kumar Senapati','Association-of-some-Plant-Defense-Enzyme-activities-with-Systemic-Resistance-to-Bacterial-wilt-Disease-induced-in-Tomato-Plants-by-Pseudomonas-aeruginosa-Strain-OD13-Anjali-Suansia-239.pdf','',1,'Controlling Ralstonia solanacearum and its impact on tomato crops is a challenge due to its wide host range and environmental adaptability. Chemical pesticides have been used but raise health and environmental concerns. One promising approach is the utilization of antibiotic-producing fluorescent pseudomonads (FPs). FPs are used as a biocontrol tool for bacterial wilt in tomato, enhancing plant growth through induced systemic resistance (ISR). The study aimed to investigate the induction of plant defense-related enzymes against R. solanacearum in tomato plants upon treatment with Pseudomonas aeruginosa strain OD13. The Pseudomonas isolates were obtained from the rhizosphere of solanaceous crops grown in various districts of Odisha. Four treatments were employed, including a control, R. solanacearum inoculation, OD13 application, and a combination of OD13 application and R. solanacearum inoculation. Tomato seedlings were sampled at various time points, and the activity of stress-related enzymes such as peroxidase (POX), phenylalanine ammonialyase (PAL), polyphenol oxidase (PPO), lipoxygenase (LOX), and total phenol content were measured. The maximum activity of peroxidase was observed in the treatment of P. aeruginosa OD13 + R. solanacearum after 24 hours of incubation (14.81±0.48 µ.mol/Δ 470 nm/min/mg protein) compared to the control. Similarly, the treatment of P. aeruginosa OD13 challenged with R. solanacearum showed higher levels of PAL and PPO activity at 36 hours after inoculation (43.07±0.62 µ.mol/trans cinnamic acid/min/mg protein and 44.33±1.25 Δ A420 nm/min/mg protein, respectively). Lipoxygenase (LOX) activity was higher in P. aeruginosa OD13 challenged with R. solanacearum at 48 hours (49±1.42 Δ A234 nm/min/mg protein). The total phenol content was significantly increased with P. aeruginosa OD13 + R. solanacearum (83.5±1.32 µg of catechol/min/mg protein) and P. aeruginosa OD13 alone (70.5±0.98 µg of catechol/min/mg protein) treated tomato seedlings at 24 hours after inoculation compared to the control. These results suggest that P. aeruginosa OD13 induces a defense response and contributes to resistance against bacterial wilt disease in tomato plants. Overall, the findings of this study demonstrate that P. aeruginosa strain OD13 can effectively induce plant defense-related enzymes in tomato plants. These induced defense responses have the potential to enhance the plant\'s resistance against various pathogens, highlighting the potential use of OD13 as a beneficial rhizobacterium for plant protection in tomato cultivation.','Pseudomonas, defense-related, peroxidase, phenylalanine ammonialyase, polyphenol oxidase, Lipoxygenase','Our findings suggest that Pseudomonas aeruginosa OD13 has the potential to induce ISR (Induced Systemic Resistance) and can be utilized as a bioinoculant for the management of bacterial wilt, caused by Ralstonia solanacearum, in tomato plants. The beneficial rhizobacterium exhibits a protective mechanism against soil-borne pathogens, making it a promising candidate for disease control in tomato cultivation. By harnessing the ISR pathway, P. aeruginosa OD13 enhances the plant\'s natural defense system, providing an effective means to combat bacterial wilt. These results highlight the potential of P. aeruginosa OD13 as a biocontrol agent, offering sustainable and environmentally friendly solutions for tomato crop protection.','-','Anjali Suansia and Akshaya Kumar Senapati (2022). Association of some Plant Defense Enzyme activities with Systemic Resistance to Bacterial wilt Disease induced in Tomato Plants by Pseudomonas aeruginosa Strain OD13. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 14(4): 1342-1349.'),(7057,'163','Study on the Sensory Attributes of Pasta Incorporated with Corn Flour and Jackfruit Seed Flour','V. Anusha, M. Kirthy Reddy and Rita Narayanan','Study-on-the-Sensory-Attributes-of-Pasta-Incorporated-with-Corn-Flour-and-Jackfruit-Seed-Flour-V-Anusha-13.pdf','',1,'Pasta is a cold extruded staple food of Italian origin. It is a good source of energy and can give fiber, which further helps with stomach problems and lower cholesterol. Addition of functional ingredients by reducing the amount of refined wheat flour will improve nutritional and functional properties of pasta. In the present study trials were conducted to develop a functional pasta by partial substitution of refined wheat flour with 10% corn flour and 10 to 20 percent jackfruit seed flour. The study examined the impact of replacing refined wheat flour with jackfruit seed flour on the sensory assessment of pasta. The results of sensory characteristic evaluation with a nine-point hedonic scale showed that pasta incorporated with 10% jackfruit seed flour and 10% corn flour was acceptable to the panelists. The colour and appearance, flavour, body and texture of pasta with the incorporation of jackfruit seed flour obtained an acceptable score. Hence this jackfruit seed flour incorporated pasta is a potential functional food.','Cold extruded, Corn flour, Jackfruit Seed Flour, Sensory analysis','In the present study, pasta made from 10% jackfruit seed flour and 10% corn flour was well received. Replacement of wheat flour with these ingredients led to changes in the sensory characteristics of pasta. The study revealed that incorporation of jackfruit seed flour affects the sensory characteristics of pasta beyond 10%. As per the study, adequate flavouring compound to could be used as a snack for various age groups. This would also enable us to explore the functional properties of jackfruit seed flour and its incorporation in various cold extruded products.','-','V. Anusha, M. Kirthy Reddy and Rita Narayanan (2023). Study on the Sensory Attributes of Pasta Incorporated with Corn Flour and Jackfruit Seed Flour. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 15(5a): 71-73.'),(7058,'163','Biological Activities of some Sterically Congested Organoantimony (v)-Carboxylates, -(Halo) Carboxylates and -Pseudohalides','Mayank Jaiswal, Manish Arya, Prem Raj and Santosh Kumar Singh','Biological-Activities-of-some-Sterically-Congested-Organoantimony--Santosh-Kumar-Singh-14.pdf','',1,'Since the initial discovery of applications of Antimony complexes in the clinical treatment of many kinds of disease, efficiency of Antimony complexes in inhibiting the expansion of various types of Antifungals, Antibacterial and Antitumor disease. A series of Sterically Congested Organoantimony(v)-Carboxylates, -(Halo) Carboxylates and –Pueudohalides [ (α-C6H11)3Sb(NCS)2, (cyclo-C6H11)3Sb(NCS)2, (α-C6H11)3Sb(N3)2, (cyclo-C6H11)3Sb(N3)2, (cyclo-C6H11)3Sb(2-Pyrazine Carbox.)2] complexes were evaluated for their activity against Antifungal, Antibacterial and Antitumor disease. One of the main obstacles in my work is that complex should sometimes not be oriented correctly. In this research work the derivatives shown promising results against Antifungal, Antibacterial and Antitumor disease and the derivatives oriented correctly with the metal which shown optimum biological activity.','Organoantimony (v), Antifungal, Antibacterial, Antitumor','In conclusion, organoantimony(v) compounds are highly versatile and attractive reagents for the advancement of synthetic organic chemistry. Organoantimony (v) compounds are easily synthesised from low-toxicity antimony salt. These compounds are mostly trivalent and pentavalent, with antimony in the +3 and +5 oxidation states. Organoantimony compounds have a wide range of applications in organic chemistry, as well as organometallic, medicinal and polymer chemistry. Organoantimony compounds have received less attention than other lighter pnictogens. Experimental studies on the antifungal, antibacterial, and antitumor activities of organoantimony (v) compounds revealed that they are better biocides than hydrocarbon-based ligands, which may be due to the presence of Florine atoms, which causes electronical and chemical changes in the molecule, it is reasonable to believe that the future of organoantimony chemistry should lead to interesting and valuable discovery.','-','Mayank Jaiswal, Manish Arya, Prem Raj and Santosh Kumar Singh (2023). Biological Activities of some Sterically Congested Organoantimony (v)-Carboxylates, -(Halo) Carboxylates and -Pseudohalides. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 15(5a): 74-86.'),(7059,'163','Comparative Evaluation of different Crop Production Practices on Soil Organic Carbon and Nutrients Status in Arecanut','Shivanand Hongal, Sowjanya T.V., Sudheesh Kulkarni, Maheswarappa H.P., Gurumurthy S.B., Shivakumar K.M., Rahul Phatak, Divya S. Bhat, Nagesh and Roopa K.M. Muttappanavar','Comparative-Evaluation-of-different-Crop-Production-Practices-on-Soil-Organic-Carbon-and-Nutrients-Status-in-Arecanut-Sowjanya-TV-15.pdf','',1,'Knowing the negative impacts of chemicals, we have been exploring for alternative methods in agriculture that can not only result in higher yields but are also environmentally friendly. Apart from modern agricultural approaches, numerous crop production modules are practiced in Indian agriculture, such as Organic farming, Natural farming, Chemical farming etc. Despite the fact that there are many modules, comparative scientific research to evaluate the various modules is limited. In this regard, a field experiment was conducted in the farmer’s field at Andagi village of Sirsi taluk to study the effect of different crop production practices (Recommended package of practice (RPP), Organic farming, Natural farming and Chemical farming) on soil fertility status in arecanut. The pooled data (2020 and 2021) depicted that, soil pH and electrical conductivity did not vary significantly due to different farming system. Whereas, significantly highest soil organic carbon content was found in organic farming (0.81%) which was on par with natural farming (0.76%) and least was noticed in chemical farming (0.57%). The highest available nitrogen (329.01 kg ha-1), phosphorus (31.77 kg ha-1) and potassium (216.52 kg ha-1) contents in soil were recorded in RPP. Whereas the highest secondary and micro nutrients content in soil was observed in organic and natural faming. The lowest of all these nutrients were recorded in chemical farming at harvest stage of arecanut. ','Arecanut, black pepper, soil organic carbon, nutrients status','The current analysis amply demonstrated that there was improvement in the soil health with natural and organic farming in arecanut plantation. Hence, reducing the input of chemical fertilizers and application of natural fertilizers such as organic manure viz., jeevamrutha, ghanajeevamrutha, FYM, vermicompost, crop residues, green manure and compost could sustain the soil health.','-','Shivanand Hongal, Sowjanya T.V., Sudheesh Kulkarni, Maheswarappa H.P., Gurumurthy S.B., Shivakumar K.M., Rahul Phatak, Divya S. Bhat, Nagesh and Roopa K.M. Muttappanavar (2023). Comparative Evaluation of different Crop Production Practices on Soil Organic Carbon and Nutrients Status in Arecanut. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 15(5a): 87-91.'),(7060,'163','Response of Green gram to the Comprehensive Nutrient Management under Temperate conditions of Kashmir Valley','Qurat-ul-Ain-Aga, Meenakshi Attri, Farooq Aga, Kanik Kumar Bansal and Vijay Kumar','Response-of-Green-gram-to-the-Comprehensive-Nutrient-Management-under-Temperate-conditions-of-Kashmir-Valley-Kanik-Kumar-Bansal-16.pdf','',1,'A field experiment was conducted at Agronomy Research Farm, Faculty of Agriculture, SKUAST-Kashmir, Wadura during Kharif 2018 to investigate the “Response of Green gram to the Comprehensive Nutrient Management under Temperate Conditions of Kashmir Valley”. During the experiment period, green gram variety (Shalimar Mung-1) was grown in Randomized block design and replicated thrice. The investigation consists of ten treatments viz., T2 (2.5 t / ha V.C + BF), T3 (100 % RDF), T4 (100% RDF +V.C), T5 (100 % RDF + BF), T6 (100% RDF+V.C +BF), T7 (75% RDF), T8 (75% RDF +V.C), T9 (75% RDF +BF), T10 (75 % RDF+ V.C+ BF) besides an absolute control (T1). The soil at the experiment site was neutral in reaction (pH 7.31), normal in electrical conductivity (0.36 dS m-1 at 25oC) and medium in organic carbon ( 0.88%), available nitrogen (316.47 kg N ha-1), available phosphorus (18.739 kg P ha-1) and available potassium (248.62 kg K ha-1) content in soil. During the study period it can be inferred that the highest growth attributes (plant height, leaf area index, dry matter accumulation, nodule number) as well as Nutrient content in mungbean grain and stover, Protein content (%) in seed and stover yield (q/ha) was obtained with the application of Treatment 6 (100% RDF+V.C +BF) during the experiment.','Greengram, Bio-Fertilizer, Vermin-Compost, Growth and Protein Yield','Based on results of one year experimentation, it may be inferred that amongst different levels of organic and inorganic fertilizers conjunctive application of 100% RDF+ Vermicompost @ 2.5 t/ha + seed inoculation of biofertilizers (Rhizobium + Phosphate solublizing bacteria), in treatment T6 was found to be the most promising treatment which fetched appreciably higher growth, yield nutrient content in seed & stover, protein content in seed and protein yield. However, these results are only indicative and require further experimentation to arrive at some more consistent and final conclusion.','-','Qurat-ul-Ain-Aga, Meenakshi Attri, Farooq Aga, Kanik Kumar Bansal and Vijay Kumar (2023). Response of Green gram to the Comprehensive Nutrient Management under Temperate Conditions of Kashmir Valley. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 15(5a): 92-97.'),(7061,'162','Character Association and Path Analysis Studies for Grain Yield, its components and Gall Midge incidence in Rice (Oryza sativa L.)','Satish Chandra B., Hari Y., Rukmini Devi K., Venkanna V., Rajendra Prasad K., Shravan Kumar R., Akshay M. and Uma Reddy R.','Character-Association-and-Path-Analysis-Studies-for-Grain-Yield,-its-components-and-Gall-Midge-incidence-in-Rice-(Oryza-sativa-L.)-B-Satish-Chandra-6.pdf','',1,'The success of most crop improvement programs depends largely on understanding the relationship between traits and the magnitude of that relationship helps the breeder determine selection criteria for a breeding program. An investigation was carried out with 30 rice genotypes to study the character association and direct and indirect effects on yield parameters. The results on character associations revealed a positive and significant association of grain yield with days to 50 percent flowering, number of productive tillers per meter, panicle length, no. of grains per panicle indicating the scope for simultaneous improvement of yield by selections. All the above traits also recorded high and positive direct effects on grain yield per plant, indicating the effectiveness of these traits in improving grain yield per plant towards the development of high yielding genotypes.','Correlations, Path effects, Rice, Yield, gall midge incidence','Based on the results summarized above, it was concluded that days to 50% flowering, no. of productive tillers/meter, panicle length and number of grains per panicle showed a positive contribution and % silver shoots, i.e. gall midge incidence showed a negative contribution to grain yield. Thus, these plant traits deserve more attention in further breeding programs for the development of high-yielding gall midge resistant rice varieties.','-','Satish Chandra B., Hari Y., Rukmini Devi K., Venkanna V., Rajendra Prasad K., Shravan Kumar R., Akshay M. and Uma Reddy R. (2023). Character Association and Path Analysis Studies for Grain Yield, its components and Gall Midge incidence in Rice (Oryza sativa L.). Biological Forum – An International Journal, 15(8): 28-31.'),(7062,'163','Assessment of Feeding Practices followed by Dairy Farmers in Hadoti (humid South Eastern Plain) Region of Rajasthan','Deepak Kumar, Ved Prakash, Kamla Mahajani, Anita Kumari Meena, Dheeraj Kumar and Deepak Singh ','Assessment-of-Feeding-Practices-followed-by-Dairy-Farmers-in-Hadoti-(humid-South-Eastern-Plain)-Region-of-Rajasthan-Deepak-Kumar-17.pdf','',1,'The present study was conducted to analyses the feeding practices followed by the dairy farmers in Hadoti region of Rajasthan. Three districts namely Kota, Bundi and Baran were selected, further three blocks from selected district and five villages from each selected blocks were randomly elect for study. Total 225 Dairy farmers were randomly selected for well-structured and pre-tested interview schedule. Study revealed that majority (71.11%) of respondents practiced stall feeding and 63.11%are feeding milch animals in group. Majority of the respondents (96%) practiced to cultivation of green fodder and half (50.67%) of the respondents used only wheat straw as a dry source of fodder. Majority (48.89 %) of respondents fed both homemade and compounded cattle feed and 47.56% feeding their livestock based on milk production. Majority (52.44%) of the respondents feeding of green fodder after chaffed and 47.56 % of respondents were feeding fodder as such. Majority (60.89%) of the respondents were feeding of dry fodder as chaffed forum. Majority (52%) of respondents feeding concentrate during milking. 64% of the respondents fed concentrate after soaking in water and 74.22% of the respondents don’t provide extra concentrate to advanced pregnant heifers and 79.11 % of the farmers did not practiced of feeding salt. 80.84% of respondents provided water two times in a day.','Hadoti, Feeding, Practices, Respondents, Dairy farmers','It can be concluded that the adoption of overall existing feeding practices were not satisfactory. There is a great need to awareness regarding feeding of balance ration, importance of mineral mixture, conservation of fodder, nutrition status of various feed and fodder in this area. Awareness camps and training programs regarding scientific feeding management can increase production and profitability of dairy enterprise in future.','-','Deepak Kumar, Ved Prakash, Kamla Mahajani, Anita Kumari Meena, Dheeraj Kumar and Deepak Singh (2023). Assessment of Feeding Practices followed by Dairy Farmers in Hadoti (humid South Eastern Plain) Region of Rajasthan. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 15(5a): 98-101.'),(7063,'163','Genetic Diversity and Principal Component Analysis for Yield and its component Trait in Rice','Harshraj Salunkhe, Ashutosh Kumar, Bal Krishna, Nilesh Talekar and Pratiksha Pawar','Genetic-Diversity-and-Principal-Component-Analysis-for-Yield-and-its-component-Trait-in-Rice-Ashutosh-Kumar-18.pdf','',1,'Breeding for aerobic rice is a vital step towards sustainable rice production, water conservation, climate change resilience, and ensuring food security for a growing global population. In this view the present investigation evaluated 30 diverse rice genotypes at the agriculture research farm of Lovely Professional University, Punjab. The study aimed to estimate genetic divergence for yield and its attributing traits during the kharif season of 2022. Randomized Block Design (RBD) with three replications was used and thirteen yield and its component traits were analysed. Among the eleven Clusters, Cluster 1 was largest comprising of thirteen genotypes followed by Cluster 2 with five genotypes. Maximum inter cluster distance was observed between cluster 2 and 11 (26.99), followed by cluster 2 and 10 (26.38) indicating that genotypes from these clusters were highly divergent and holds great promise as parents for hybridization. Maximum intra cluster distance was observed in cluster 8 (9.47) followed by cluster 2 (9.27). It reveals that genotypes present in the same cluster have low level of diversity and selection of parents with in the cluster for hybridization programme may not be considered promising. The first principal component (PC1) contributed 45.65 per cent towards variability. The characters namely, amylose content (0.23), Days to 50% flowering (0.320), plant height (0.15) and Days to maturity (0.14) explained maximum variance in this component. Among all the principal components, PC1 showed maximum variability of 45.65% with high Eigen value 1540, which decreased gradually indicating that maximum variation, was observed in PC1 as compared to the other PC’s.','Genetic divergence, Clusters, Principal component analysis, inter cluster, intra cluster and variability','Based on the findings of the present investigation, it can be concluded that there is sufficient genetic variability observed in the evaluated quantitative traits. This suggests that there is potential for selecting genotypes with high grain yield by targeting different clusters and conducting appropriate crosses to improve overall yield. The study has also identified a genotype that performed exceptionally well, which could be recommended for further evaluation and potential commercialization. For future breeding programs that involve hybridization, it is advisable to select parental material from different clusters rather than within clusters. This approach would maximize the potential for combining favorable traits and enhancing overall performance. Among the eleven Clusters, Cluster 1 was largest comprising of thirteen genotypes followed by Cluster 2 with five genotypes. Maximum inter cluster distance was observed between cluster 2 and 11, followed by cluster 2 and 10 indicating that genotypes from these clusters were highly divergent and holds great promise as parents for hybridization. Maximum intra cluster distance was observed in cluster 8 followed by cluster 2. It reveals that genotypes present in the same cluster have low level of diversity and selection of parents with in the cluster for hybridization programme may not be considered promising. Additionally, it is recommended to replicate the study across multiple seasons and locations, involving a larger number of genotypes. This would provide more robust and reliable predictions of genotypic performance across diverse environments, helping to validate the current results. Furthermore, to complement the findings of the current study, it is suggested to incorporate molecular characterization techniques in future rice research. Molecular characterization can provide additional insights and confirmation of the observed outcomes, further enhancing our understanding of the genetic basis of the traits under investigation.','-','Harshraj Salunkhe, Ashutosh Kumar, Bal Krishna, Nilesh Talekar and Pratiksha Pawar (2023). Genetic Diversity and Principal component Analysis for Yield and its component Trait in Rice. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 15(5a): 102-107.'),(7064,'163','Effect of Biological Soil Amendments on Plant Growth and Soil Microbial Population in Peach Replant Sick Soil','Johnson Lakra, Dharam Paul Sharma, Kuruva Mallikarjuna and Shashi Kant Ekka ','Effect-of-Biological-Soil-Amendments-on-Plant-Growth-and-Soil-Microbial-Population-in-Peach-Replant-Sick-Soil-Johnson-Lakra-19.pdf','',1,'Agriculture is demanding more environmentally safe, sustainable production practices due to the adverse effect of conventional practices on soil biological activity and diversity. Soil rehabilitation and root growth stimulation is also of prime importance in orchards suffering from peach replant disease (PRD). Present study hypothesized that the fumigation, biofumigation, soil microbial inoculants can improve soil microbial activity and feeder root development, thereby having a positive impact on tree growth in newly established orchards, especially PRD sites. Furthermore, the effect of the various treatments on soil microbial community activity was examined, using soil enzyme assays and conventional microbial plate counts. The biofumigaton that performed the best in terms of growth increase were Brassica seed meal combination with PGPR. Soil enzyme assays indicated significant changes in soil microbial activity, with fumigated soil showing lower activity. Soils amended with PGPR had higher microbial activity. ','Peach replant disease, biofumigation, PGPR, plant growth, soil viable microorganism, enzyme activity','from present investigations it can be concluded that combined treatment (Brassica seed meal+PGPR) wasmost effective to record positive influence of plant growth traits, total viable microbial count and soil enzymatic activities on the peach plants grown under replant sick soil in open field conditions.','-','Johnson Lakra, Dharam Paul Sharma, Kuruva Mallikarjuna and Shashi Kant Ekka (2023). Effect of Biological Soil Amendments on Plant Growth and Soil Microbial Population in Peach Replant Sick Soil. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 15(5a): 108-115.'),(7065,'163','Effect of different Levels of Nitrogen and Phosphorus on Growth and Development of Pomegranate (Punica granatum L.) Cv. Kandhari in Allahabad AgroClimatic condition','Neha Roba Tirkey, Johnson Lakra, Kuruva Mallikarjuna and Shashi Kant Ekka ','Effect-of-different-Levels-of-Nitrogen-and-Phosphorus-on-Growth-and-Development-of-Pomegranate-(Punica-granatum-L.)-Cv.-Kandhari-in-Allahabad-AgroClimatic-condition-Neha-Roba-Tirkey-20.pdf','',1,'A field experiment was carried out at Horticulture Research Farm, Department of Horticulture, Allahabad School of Agriculture, Sam Higginbottom Institute of Agriculture, Technology and Sciences, Allahabad (U.P.) during November 2015 to April 2016, to study the effect of different Levels of Nitrogen and Phosphorus on Growth and Development of Pomegranate (Punica granatum L.) Cv. Kandhari in Allahabad Agro Climatic Condition. The experiment was laid out in randomized block design (RBD) with three replications and 10 treatments. Nitrogen was applied at 0-250g/plant as well as Phosphorus was applied at 0-125g/plant with common dose of Potassium 125g/plant. Control plants were fed no fertilizers. The results indicated 100% recommended dose of fertilizers resulted in maximum plant height (120.40 cm), maximum number of branches (10.17), maximum number of leaves (4360.42), maximum spread of canopy (125.74 cm2), maximum internode length (8.60 cm), maximum Stem diameter (2.39 cm) and maximum leaf area (7.33 cm2) and maximum number of flowers (16.21) while Control plants recorded least growth. Therefore 100% recommended dose of fertilizers can be recommended for getting increased plant growth for two years old pomegranate plants cv. Kandhari.','Pomegranate, Nitrogen, Phosphorus, Growth, Soil nutrients','On the basis of the results obtained, it is concluded that the treatment T2 : 250 g/plant Nitrogen, 125 g/plant Phosphorus and 125 g/plant Potash was found to be the best in treatment combinations in terms of maximum plant height (120.40 cm), maximum number of branches (10.17), maximum number of leaves (4360.42), maximum spread of canopy (125.74 cm2), maximum internode length (8.60 cm), maximum Stem diameter (2.39 cm), maximum leaf area (7.33) and maximum number of flowers (16.21) and the minimum was recorded in T0 : control. and nutrient status of soil like EC, nitrogen, phosphorus and potassium were also higher with treatment T2.','-','Neha Roba Tirkey, Johnson Lakra, Kuruva Mallikarjuna and Shashi Kant Ekka (2023). Effect of Different Levels of Nitrogen and Phosphorus on Growth and Development of Pomegranate (Punica granatum L.) Cv. Kandhari in Allahabad AgroClimatic Condition. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 15(5a): 116-119.'),(7066,'163','Soil Management Amendments to Combat peach Replant Problem','Johnson Lakra, Dharam Paul Sharma, Kuruva Mallikarjuna and Shashi Kant Ekka ','Soil-Management-Amendments-to-Combat-peach-Replant-Problem-Johnson-Lakra-21.pdf','',1,'Replant problem is the situation resulting in suppression of growth and poor productivity of the replanted trees on old orchard sites which makes the plantation uneconomical. Peach has short life span of 20-25 years and most of the orchard planted during eighties and nineties have outlived their economic life span and are at the verge of decline. Due to limited land resources and choice of crops for diversification in hill states, orchardists are compelled to replant same fruit crop in old orchard site. However; repeated cultivation of the same plant species on the same field leads to replant problem. The new plantations experience low field survival, stunted, poor growth and death of plants even after few years of plantation. Among the treatments, maximum growth and vigour parameters as well assoil enzymatic activities were recorded with Brassica seed meal fumigation. Soils amended with PGPR had higher microbial activity. ','Peach replant disease, biofumigation, growth, soil viable microorganism count, enzyme activity','The present investigation it concludes that treatment of Brassica seed meal was most effective on an individual basis to influence the plant growth traits, total viable microbial count and soil enzymatic activities in peach replant sick soil under pot culture studies.','-','Johnson Lakra, Dharam Paul Sharma, Kuruva Mallikarjuna and Shashi Kant Ekka (2023). Soil Management Amendments to Combat peach Replant Problem. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 15(5a): 120-125.'),(7067,'163','Therapeutic Role of Phytonutrients in Chronic Respiratory Diseases in the Indian Population','Pallab Ray','Therapeutic-Role-of-Phytonutrients-in-Chronic-Respiratory-Diseases-in-the-Indian-Population-22.pdf','',1,'The respiratory tract’s chronic inflammation is an extremely worrisome public health concern in India because it may develop into CRDs, some of which pose a greater threat than others. COP), & asthma are examples of chronic respiratory conditions. The dilemma of representative chemotherapy to treat respiratory distress necessitates discovering the medications that successfully combat the modern complexities of the target sickness. Chronic pulmonary illnesses are characterized by several intricate regulatory mechanisms, necessitating chemotherapeutics with composite inhibitory action. Cost-effective & natural product-based molecules are more likely to meet the challenges that respiratory-distress treatment poses by avoiding the laborious archetypes of drug designing & development, showing a strong case for a probable substitute of poly-pharmacology, & guaranteeing disease-relapse prevention. The cell signalling pathways & components of natural product moieties are summarised in this study to show how successful they are as a therapy for respiratory ailments affecting the Indian population. The study of the therapeutic role of phytonutrients in chronic respiratory diseases in the Indian population faces significant challenges because of the heterogeneity of patient profiles and disease severity. Moreover, the diverse dietary habits and lifestyle factors across different regions of India may influence the response to phytonutrient-based interventions, necessitating careful consideration in study design and interpretation. Despite these challenges, research on the medicinal applications of phytonutrients, including their anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, and immunomodulatory capabilities, has made notable advances in our knowledge of their mechanisms of action. Clinical research has produced encouraging results, including increased lung function, decreased airway inflammation, and improved quality of life for those with chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) and asthma. The creation of tailored and individualized therapies for various chronic respiratory illnesses is made possible by the identification of phytonutrients with positive therapeutic profiles. Additionally, including phytonutrients as adjunctive therapy in standard medical procedures has the potential to improve patient outcomes and reduce the need for traditional drugs, which could result in more cost-effective healthcare administration. Realizing the full potential of phytonutrients as beneficial complements to managing chronic respiratory disorders requires collaboration between academics and healthcare providers.','Chronic respiratory diseases, Phytonutrients, Indian population, different age groups, cell signalling','Chronic respiratory illnesses are primarily brought about by bronchial & pulmonary inflammation resulting from a heightened innate response, which causes an increase in pro-inflammatory metabolites. Inflammatory cells’ recruitment into the bronchial & alveolar mucosa is proofd through the inhalation of toxicants. Even after a lengthy stimuli cascade, the persistence of non-specific macrophages & adaptive T-lymphocytes inadvertently stimulates the memory cells of adaptive immunity, a phenomenon that is sustained by dendritic cells that promote the remodelling of lung tissue. Additionally, oxidative stress & disruption of the balance of protease/antiprotease reduce corticosteroids’ efficacy to decrease airway inflammation.','-','Pallab Ray (2023). Therapeutic Role of Phytonutrients in Chronic Respiratory Diseases in the Indian Population. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 15(5a): 126-134.'),(7068,'162','Study on Genetic Variability, Heritability and Genetic Advance in Forage Sorghum (Sorghum bicolor L. Moench)','Pushpendra, S.K. Singh, L.K. Gangwar, Mukesh Kumar and Mukesh Kumar ','Study-on-Genetic-Variability,-Heritability-and-Genetic-Advance-in-Forage-Sorghum-(Sorghum-bicolor-L.-Moench)-Pushpendra-7.pdf','',1,'The present study was an analysis of genetic variability, heritability and genetic advance for ten quantitative traits using forty five F1s, obtained by crossing ten genotypes of forage sorghum in half-diallel mating design. These forty-five crosses were grown the following year in a Randomized Block Design (RBD) with ten of their parents and three replications. The mean sum of squares due to treatment was determined to be highly significant for all ten traits under study. In this study the higher phenotypic co-efficient of variation was recorded than the genotypic co-efficient of variation for all the measured characters, which indicate that major influenced by environment. High heritability coupled with high genetic advance as percent of mean was observed for the characters like green fodder yield followed by leaf area, leaf stem ratio, leaf breath, stem girth, leaves per plant and total soluble solids. In comparison of high heritability coupled with high genetic advance observed for leaf breadth followed by stem girth, leaves per plant, leaf area, leaf stem ratio, total soluble solids and green fodder yield whereas, moderate genetic advance was observed for plant height, leaf length and days to 50% flowering. Based on the present study, results based on high variability and higher heritability found with high genetic advance for higher qualitative traits which can be used for improvement of fodder yield its contributed traits. Loss of genetic variability is the major challenge of plant breeder for crop improvement.','Sorghum bicolor, Variability, Heritability and Genetic advance','In this study for green fodder yield, its contributing traits as well as one quality traits, these are found the highly significant differences among the materials. Analysis of variance for parents and crosses showed highly differed significantly for all the ten characters. Indicated that wide genotypic differences among the parental lines and F1’s hybrids. High heritability accompanied with high genetic advance as percent of mean was noted for green fodder yield followed by leaf area and leaf stem ratio. Indicating that through the character is least influenced by the environment effects, the selection may not be useful, because broad-sense character may not be useful, because broad-sense is based on total genetic variance which include both additive (fixable) and non-additive or non-fixable (dominance and epistasis). In other side, low heritability observed for some traits, like total soluble solids, days to 50% flowering and plant height which characters are highly influenced by the environmental effects, so genetic improvement through selection will be difficult. Because genotypic effect influenced by the masking effect of environment. The highly observed of genetic advance expressed as per cent of mean have been observed for leaf breadth, stem girth, leaves per plant, leaf area, leaf stem ratio and green fodder yield per plant indicating that the character is governed by additive genes, thereby, suggesting good response for selection based on per se performance. Whereas, low genetic advanced was found for the estimation for Plant height, leaf length and days to 50% flowering, which are indicating these character governed by non-additive (non-fixable) genes, so this indicate that heterosis breeding is beneficial for high green fodder yield. High heritability coupled with high genetic advance as a percent of mean indicate the heritability is due to additive genes effects, so selection may be fruitful. Finally, this result of high heritability with high genetic advance as a per cent of mean for green fodder yield was noted.','-','Pushpendra, S.K. Singh, L.K. Gangwar, Mukesh Kumar and Mukesh Kumar (2023). Study on Genetic Variability, Heritability and Genetic Advance in Forage Sorghum (Sorghum bicolor L. Moench). Biological Forum – An International Journal, 15(8): 32-35.'),(7069,'163','Interactive effect of Nitrogen and Phosphorus nutrition on Nitrogen use efficiency and crop productivity in wheat varieties (Triticum aestivum L. & Triticum durum L.)','Pramod Kumar Sharma, R. Elanchezhian, Raghavendra Narwaria, M. Vassanda Coumar, A.K. Biswas, Sati Shankar Singh and Dilip Panwar ','Interactive-effect-of-Nitrogen-and-Phosphorus-nutrition-on-Nitrogen-use-efficiency-and-crop-productivity-in-wheat-varieties-(Triticum-aestivum-L.-&-Triticum-durum-L.)-Pramod-kumar-Sharma-23.pdf','',1,'A field study was conducted in Vertisols of subtropical area of Central India. The major goal of the experiment was to compare the grain yield and other characteristics of selected wheat genotypes grown under various nutrient doses to determine which genotype outperformed the others. In the current study, nine different genotypes of wheat (T. aestivum and T. durum L.) were chosen and cultivated as experimental crops. A split plot design, which was replicating three times, was used, with nutrient dose serving as the main plot and the other wheat varieties serving the sub-treatments. There are 36 plots in a block in each of the following treatments: T1 was control, T2 was 100% (N+P+K), T3 was 50% N+100% (P+K), and T4 was 50% P+100% N+K. The HI 8713 variety had the highest rate of total nitrogen uptake, and it also had the highest quantity of grain yield, demonstrating a direct correlation between nitrogen uptake and grain yield 7. HI 1563 showed the highest apparent recovery of N (95.96%) under low doses of N, followed by GW366 (88.13%). GW366 had the highest average Agronomic Efficiency (20.05%) across all fertilizer N doses. Variety Narmada 14 had the highest Physiological Efficiency (60.63%) under standard N circumstances, followed by HI 1531, or 59.13%.2. The variety HI 8713 of wheat exhibited significantly higher biomass, grain yield, nitrogen content in grain and straw, total nitrogen uptake, and agronomic use efficiency by N than any of the other evaluated wheat varieties. Agronomic use efficiency, perceived nutrient recovery, and physiological efficiency-all measures used to describe use efficiency-were extremely variable depending on genotypes and application rates for N and P.','Nitrogen use efficiency, Nitrogen, Nutrient recovery, Agronomic Efficiency, physiological efficiency','1. The variety HI8713 produced noticeably more plant biomass under normal, and control fertiliser dose conditions, achieving 9393.00 kg/ha and 8383.00 kg/ha. Under identical fertiliser doses, the same variety produced noticeably higher grain yields of 4,580.88 kg/ha. and 3,035.13kg/ha. respectively.\r\n2. Under low dose of N, the variety HI 1563 had the highest apparent recovery of N (95.96 %), followed by GW366 (88.13%). Across all fertilizer N dosages, the highest average Agronomic Efficiency was found in GW366 (20.05%). Under normal N conditions, variety Narmada14 had the highest Physiological Efficiency (60.63 percent), followed by HI1531, i.e. 59.13 percent.\r\n3. Among all the wheat varieties tested, the variety HI 8713 had considerably higher dry weight, leaf area, biomass, grain yield, chlorophyll content, SPAD value, nitrogen content in grain and straw, total nitrogen uptake, agronomic use efficiency by N, nitrogen harvesting index, photosynthetic rate, total phosphorus uptake, apparent phosphorus recovery and phosphorus harvesting index and lower days to 50% flowering.\r\n4. Between sub optimal doses of N and P (T3 and T4) T3 produced higher biomass yield than T4 averaging all the selected nine varieties of wheat, whereas T4 had higher grain yield than T3.\r\n5. Use efficiency terms namely agronomic use efficiency, apparent nutrient recovery and physiological efficiency calculate based on N application and P application were highly variable depending on rates of N & P application and genotypes and were not without bias. In general, agronomic use efficiency and physiological use efficiency calculate on P basis were much higher than those calculated on N basis.\r\n','-','Pramod Kumar Sharma, R. Elanchezhian, Raghavendra Narwaria, M. Vassanda Coumar, A.K. Biswas, Sati Shankar Singh and Dilip Panwar (2023). Interactive effect of Nitrogen and Phosphorus nutrition on Nitrogen use efficiency and crop productivity in wheat varieties (Triticum aestivum L. & Triticum durum L.). Biological Forum – An International Journal, 15(5a): 135-143.'),(7070,'163','Standardization and Improved Protocols for Evaluation of Relative Abundance of Methanogens in Rumen of Dairy Cows','Suresh C., Ramachandran M., Puvarajan B., Suresh R. and Vijayakumar P. ','Standardization-and-Improved-Protocols-for-Evaluation-of-Relative-Abundance-of-Methanogens-in-Rumen-of-Dairy-Cows-Suresh-C-24.pdf','',1,'Methanogens are obligate anaerobes. Ruminal methanogens are still difficult to be cultured in laboratories, owing to their tough cell wall. The conventional methods of DNA extraction would not be feasible as they are found to be qualitative rather than quantitative. Hence, an improved methodology was attempted by quantitative real-time PCR (qRT-PCR) technique for determining the abundance of methanogen in the rumen of cattle. The relative abundance of all methanogens as well as key species such as Methanobrevibacter sp., and Methanosphaera stadtmanae were determined in the rumen liquor of cattle fed with 60:40 roughage and concentrate diet in the farm with standard managemental conditions in the Cauvery Delta Zone of Tamilnadu. DNA extraction was followed in three processing methods. Gradient PCR and RT-PCR has been carried out by use of published primers. Methanosphera standmanae was observed as the more abundant species than Methanobrevibacter sp. in this study. The parameters for standardisation of RT-PCR such as annealing temperature, melting curve can be used in future as standard to conduct are search protocol. The area and feeding system specific standardised protocols can be widely adopted in the rumen analytical studies to assess relative abundance of methanogens.','Methanogens, RT-PCR, Gradient PCR, Methane, Methanosphera standmanae, Rumen','Methanosphaera standmanae was higher in this present study than Methanobrevibacter sp. Hence, sampling can be done in the left paralumbar fossa site for specific study on Methanosphaera standmanae. Otherwise, the sampling of rumen liquor can be made through stomach tube from cranial sac of rumen where initial active fermentation takes place for routine studies. This site will be more representative for all rumen microbes than the site at left paralumbar fossa. The primers used in the study can be effectively used owing to the prudentiality and estimation of relative abundance of methanogens in Jersey cross bred dairy cows of this region with the existing managemental conditions. In DNA extraction protocol, column purification should be carried out. The procedure without column purification will not be useful to extract DNA to observe the abundance and quantification of the methanogens. The selection and designing of novel primers for different area specific feeding practices will be useful in study of kinetics of the methanogens in rumen. Hence, the above mentioned improved protocols of this study can be followed for estimating the relative abundance of methanogens in the rumen in paddy straw based feeding practices adopted areas.','-','Suresh C., Ramachandran M., Puvarajan B., Suresh R. and Vijayakumar P. (2023). Standardization and Improved Protocols for Evaluation of Relative Abundance of Methanogens in Rumen of Dairy Cows. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 15(8): 144-150.'),(7071,'163','Efficient Biodegradation of Food Processing Wastewater using Microbial Consortium: A Case Study','Gandhi S.N. and Raval A.A. ','Efficient-Biodegradation-of-Food-Processing-Wastewater-using-Microbial-Consortium-A-Case-Study-Gandhi-SN-25.pdf','',1,'Food products are consumed for their nutritional value and flavourful taste. The colour of food not only stimulates appetite but also enhances its aesthetic appeal to consumers. Wastewater generated by the food sector is significantly loaded with organic substances, nitrogen, phosphorus, dyes, and potentially heavy metals. These waste byproducts, especially the dyes, constitute an estimated 15% of all dyes emitted globally, causing serious harm to aquatic ecosystems. To address this issue, the exploration of an environmentally friendly and self-sustaining treatment method is crucial. This study investigates the use of a microbial consortium consisting of three Enterobacter species that were previously isolated from various textile industries and have demonstrated to be highly effective at removing heavy metals and textile dyes both, individually and in consortia. The objective of this study was to evaluate the potential of this pre-established consortium in treating food processing wastewater. Our findings suggest that this microbial consortium effectively removes up to 60% of colour and 44% of organic load from food processing wastewater. Consequently, the utilization of microbial consortia, with proven effectiveness in treating textile wastewater, offers substantial promise for application in the food processing industry as well, providing a viable, environmentally sustainable approach to wastewater treatment.','Food colours, biodegradation, coagulant-flocculent, microbial consortium, Enterobacter','The present experimental studies on the treatment of food industry effluent using a potent microbial consortium shown significant reduction of various parameters. The efficiency of biodegradation can be credited to the diverse mechanisms inherent to each bacterial strain within the consortium. Of these, colour and Total Organic Carbon (TOC) reductions were most prominent, although other parameters also shown substantial reduction. Each strain present in the consortium has its unique capabilities to remove each parameter efficiently, and collectively they exhibit synergistic approach and enhanced efficiency. It was observed that decolourization began 24 hours into the experiment, reaching its peak after an incubation period of 7 days, with no further changes observed thereafter. The findings suggest that the microbial consortium, primarily comprising Enterobacter species, originally proven efficient in degrading textile dyes, is equally efficient at removing food dyes. The versatility and efficiency of the microbial consortium can be used as an effective treatment for diverse industrial effluents.','-','Gandhi S.N. and Raval A.A. (2023). Efficient Biodegradation of Food Processing Wastewater using Microbial Consortium: A Case Study. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 15(5a): 151-156.'),(7072,'163','Symbiotic Parameters, Quality Parameters, Nutrient Content and Uptake by Chickpea (Cicer arietinum L.) Crop as Influenced by Rock Phosphate, Poultry Manure and Phosphate Solubilizing Bacteria ','Deshraj Meena, R.H. Meena, Devendra Jain, Ajit Kumar Meena, Kriti Sharma and Yash Vardhan Singh ','Symbiotic-Parameters,-Quality-Parameters,-Nutrient-Content-and-Uptake-by-Chickpea-(Cicer-arietinum-L.)-Crop-as-Influenced-by-Rock-Phosphate,-Poultry-Manure-and-Phosphate-Solubilizing-Bac-Deshraj-Meena-26.pdf','',1,'The field experiment entitled “Symbiotic Parameters, Quality Parameters, Nutrient Content and Uptake by Chickpea (Cicer arietinum L.) Crop as Influenced by Rock Phosphate, Poultry Manure and Phosphate Solubilizing Bacteria” was conducted during Rabi season, 2021-2022 at Instructional Farm (Agronomy), Rajasthan College of Agriculture, MPUAT, Udaipur (Rajasthan). The experiment was layout in Randomized Block Design (RBD) with 9 treatments and 3 replications. Higher number of nodules plant-1 at 60 days (44.16), leghemoglobin content in nodules (2.48 mg g-1), protein content in seed and protein yield (456.21 kg ha-1) were also observed under application of 50% P through RP + 50% P through PM + PSB (T9). The results showed that treatment T9 (50% P through RP + 50% P through PM + PSB) significantly improved in NPK content in seed as well as haulm. Further results revealed that nitrogen, phosphorus, and potassium uptake was also significantly enhanced by the combined application of RP+PM+PSB (50% P through RP + 50% P through PM+ PSB). It was concluded that application of 50% P through RP + 50% P through PM + PSB (T9) significantly improved symbiotic parameters, nutrient content and uptake by chickpea of chickpea (Cicer arietinum L.). These findings hold significant implications for sustainable agriculture and nutrient management strategies in chickpea cultivation, and can contribute to the optimization of crop yields and overall agricultural productivity in the region.','Rock Phosphate, Poultry Manure, Phosphate Solubilizing Bacteria, Nutrient content, Nutrient uptake, Chickpea','Based on the experimental findings from the Rabi season of 2021-2022, the application of 50% phosphorus through rock phosphate (RP) + 50% phosphorus through poultry manure (PM) + phosphate-solubilizing bacteria (PSB) (T9) showed significant effects on various aspects, including symbiotic parameters, nutrient content, and nutrient uptake, as compared to the control group. This integrated treatment demonstrated superior performance and positively influenced the nodulation process, nutrient content in the seeds and haulm, and overall nutrient uptake by the chickpea plants. These results highlight the potential of the combined approach using rock phosphate, poultry manure, and phosphate-solubilizing bacteria to enhance chickpea productivity and nutrient utilization, providing valuable insights for optimizing agricultural practices and crop yield.','-','Deshraj Meena, R.H. Meena, Devendra Jain, Ajit Kumar Meena, Kriti Sharma and Yash Vardhan Singh (2023). Symbiotic Parameters, Quality Parameters, Nutrient Content and Uptake by Chickpea (Cicer arietinum L.) Crop as Influenced by Rock Phosphate, Poultry Manure and Phosphate Solubilizing Bacteria. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 15(5a): 157-164.'),(7073,'163','Effect of different Sowing Dates on Occurrence of Maize Stem Borer [Chilo partellus (Swinhoe)] in Kharif Maize','Gagandeep Singh, M.K. Mahla, N.L. Dangi, Kuldeep Sharma, Vijay Kumar and Sarita','Effect-of-different-Sowing-Dates-on-Occurrence-of-Maize-Stem-Borer-[Chilo partellus-(Swinhoe)]-in-Kharif-Maize-Gagandeep-Singh-27.pdf','',1,'The present investigation was conducted on Agronomy Farm, Rajasthan College of Agriculture, MPUAT, Udaipur during Kharif 2018 with the objective of seasonal incidence of maize stem borer, effect of different sowing dates on its incidence and their correlations with the environmental factors. During the crop season in Kharif 2018, the maximum leaf injury (8.30 mean LIR) by Chilo partellus was recorded in the second week of August at 30th days after sowing. The dead heart incidence first appeared during last week of July and reached to its peak (3.00 per cent) during second week of August at 30th days after sowing. The pest showed significant negative correlation with mean relative humidity but non-significant with mean atmospheric temperature and total rainfall. During crop season, the effect of six dates of sowing was observed on the basis of seasonal mean the maximum larval population was recorded in the second date of sowing (6th August), while minimum larval was found in the last date of sowing (3rd September) in both varieties. However, in the first date of sowing C. partellus larval population showed a significant positive correlation with mean atmospheric temperature in both the varieties. In the last date of sowing C. partellus larval population showed a significant positive correlation with total rainfall in maize variety Pratap Hybrid Maize-3. While, in the first and last date of sowing C. partellus larval population showed a significant positive correlation with total rainfall in maize variety Pratap QPM. C. partellus larval population showed a significant positive correlation in different dates of sowing. The overall results indicate that the per cent infestation of maize stem borer can be minimized by sowing the crop in mid-July. It would be a cumbersome work to uproot and dissected the infested plants on every observation. This study will be helpful in the facilitating to scientific community as well as farmers regarding the occurrence of C. partellus in maize crop.','Chilo partellus, environmental factors, incidence, Kharif maize','During the crop season in Kharif 2018, the maximum leaf injury (8.30 mean LIR) by Chilo partellus was recorded in the second week of August at 30th days after sowing. The dead heart incidence first appeared during last week of July and reached to its peak (3.00 per cent) during second week of August at 30th days after sowing. The pest showed significant negative correlation with mean relative humidity but non-significant with mean atmospheric temperature and total rainfall. During crop season, the effect of six dates of sowing was observed on the basis of seasonal mean the maximum larval population and found that C. partellus larval population showed a significant positive correlation in different dates of sowing. The overall results indicate that the per cent infestation of maize stem borer can be minimized by sowing the crop in mid-July during Kharif season.','-','Gagandeep Singh, M.K. Mahla, N.L. Dangi, Kuldeep Sharma, Vijay Kumar and Sarita (2023). Effect of different Sowing Dates on Occurrence of Maize Stem Borer [Chilo partellus (Swinhoe)] in Kharif Maize. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 15(5a): 165-170.'),(7074,'163','Effect of different Combinations of Plant Growth Regulators on Sugarcane Shoot Multiplication','Krishanu, R.S. Sengar, Mukesh Kuma, Vaishali, M.K. Yadav and L.K. Gangwar ','Effect-of-different-Combinations-of-Plant-Growth-Regulators-on-Sugarcane-Shoot-Multiplication-Krishanu-28.pdf','',1,'For the production of disease-free plant on large scale plant tissue culture technique is the best for utilization in vitro. The current experiment used the different plant growth regulators for the development of sugarcane plantlets using plant tissue culture technique. About 86% of the world\'s total sugar needs are satisfied by sugarcane. India is the world\'s second-largest producer of sugar. Sugarcane is traditionally replicated vegetatively, utilising setts as seed rather than real seeds. Low rates of multiplication and disease susceptibility are typically the outcome of this method of sugarcane propagation. Techniques for growing plant tissues provide a reliable and effective answer to this problem. The production of pathogen-free plants and a significant improvement in plant quality are both being explained by tissue culture. Auxins are used for roots, whereas cytokinin is used for shoot initiation and multiplication. In the current study, Murashig and Skoog (MS) medium were employed. Different sixteen combinations (15+Control) of modified MS media were used for in-vitro shoot multiplication in both sugarcane genotypes (Cos 13235 and Co 15023). The study showed that the combination of sterilant in sequence of labolene (2%) for 10 min, Bavistin (0.1%) for 5 min, HgCl2 (0.1%) for 90 seconds and Ethanol (70%) for 1 min was found to be best for surface sterilization. Minimum growth of explants was observed in media which is devoid of any growth regulator. It is concluded that both the genotypes have shown higher growth and shoot regeneration in T11 containing (0.5 BAP + 0.5 Kinetin mg/L). Some challenges in the present study are 1. Ensuring pathogen-free and disease-free plant production through tissue culture technique on a large scale requires meticulous and consistent sterilization procedures to prevent contamination. 2. Finding the optimal combination of growth regulators in the culture medium for shoot multiplication can be challenging, as it involves extensive experimentation and precise control of hormonal concentrations. 3. Achieving consistent and efficient growth and shoot regeneration across different sugarcane genotypes can be difficult due to variations in their inherent characteristics and responses to the tissue culture conditions.','Sugarcane, Plant growth regulators, Culture medium, BAP and Kinetin','A well-standardized protocol for in-vitro shoot tip culture of sugarcane genotypes Cos 13235 and Co 15023 is done by treating with different hormonal combinations. The best growth was observed in the MS medium supplemented with a hormonal concentration of 0.5 mg/L BAP + 0.5 mg/L Kinetin in both of the sugarcane genotypes Cos 13235 and Co 15023. On the basis of results obtained in this study, it can be concluded that the developed protocol for shoot tip culture can be used for in-vitro shoot tip culture of sugarcane in commercial level, it also shows relative advantage such as taking short duration for shoot multiplication, disease free culture plants.','-','Krishanu, R.S. Sengar, Mukesh Kuma, Vaishali, M.K. Yadav and L.K. Gangwar (2023). Effect of different Combinations of Plant Growth Regulators on Sugarcane Shoot Multiplication. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 15(5a): 171-176.'),(7075,'163','Effect of Extremely Higher Environmental Temperature Linked Changes in Glutathion (Endogenous Antioxidant) Responses of Liver in Marwari Goat','Prakash Chandra Sanwal and Nalini Kataria','Effect-of-Extremely-Higher-Environmental-Temperature-Linked-Changes-in-Glutathion-(Endogenous-Antioxidant)-Responses-of-Liver-in-Marwari-Goat-Prakash-Chandra-Sanwal-29.pdf','',1,'Prakash Chandra Sanwal* and Nalini Kataria','Marwari Goat, Endogenous Antioxidant, Analytes, Glutathione, Liver','The conclusion of the exploration will confer aid in supervising the stratagem for placate of the native breeds of goat. Eloquent stipulations of the present study have attempted to divulge that liver cells are fraught with a blend of glutathione. Resolution of research have tried to focus on the relative worth of the changes in the levels of glutathione associated with the extremely hot environmental temperature. Research contribution of the present study can be employed in strengthening the clinical aspect of Physiology in Veterinary sciences in the field of antioxidant status and in systematizing the scientific supervision of the animals during adverse ambiences. The vibrancy of alterations regarding glutathione responses of liver revealed the existence of oxidative stress. Findings acquired in the investigation will assist in increasing the endorsement of contrivances to have gist about the damaging effects of harsh ambiences in the goat. Results will be temptingly valuable in crafting scientific tactics for Marwari goat to assist the marginal farmers and goat raisers from arid tracts and for researchers associated in the scientific execution of practices in goat sector. It can be concluded that present study evaluated efficiently the pattern of extremely higher environmental temperature linked variations in glutathione responses of liver in Marwari goat.','-','Prakash Chandra Sanwal and Nalini Kataria (2023). Effect of Extremely Higher Environmental Temperature Linked Changes in Glutathion (Endogenous Antioxidant) Responses of Liver in Marwari Goat. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 15(5a): 177-180.'),(7076,'163','Pollination Potential of (Apis cerana indica) in Pumpkin (Cucurbita moschata Duchex Poir)','Kedswin K.S., Srinivasan M.R., Saminathan V.R., Preetha G. and Thangamani C.','Pollination-Potential-of-(Apis-cerana-indica)-in-Pumpkin-(Cucurbita-moschata-Duchex-Poir)-Srinivasan-MR-30.pdf','',1,'The activity of Apis cerana indica is heavily influenced by weather and environmental conditions, factors such as temperature, humidity, rainfall, and wind can affect bee foraging behavior and the frequency of their visits to pumpkin flowers. The crop pollination of pumpkin flowers is greatly aided by honey bees. An experiment was conducted at Coimbatore, Tamil Nadu, to investigate the pollination potential and effectiveness of Indian bees (A. cerana indica) on pumpkin. The abundance and diversity of forage in both male and female pumpkin flowers, measured asforagers/flower/min were recorded. In three different situations viz., open pollination, bee pollination and pollination exclusion the pumpkin fruit set and yield were evaluated. The foraging rate of bees on the male flowers (0.81/min) was higher than on female flowers (0.49/min) and the floral handling time in seconds on male and female flowers was5.03 and 3.85 respectively. A. cerana indica foraging activity peaked between 7:00 - 09:00 am with 30.06 foragers / 5 minutes. A. florea was found to possess the highest Pollination Efficiency Index (2.49 / 5 inflorescences/ 5 min). At the hive entrance, incoming and outgoing bees was high at 7:00 - 09:00 am in the morning. A. cerana indica colony growth parameters viz., the adult bee population, increased by 11.77% and the sealed honey area by 33.10%. Based on the results of pollination studies, it was found that managed bee-pollinated plots produced more fruits 3.3 fruits/ plant and 39.7t/ha than open pollination conditions (2.6 fruits/ plant) and (34.6t/ha). In contrast, the pollination exclusion condition failed to produce any fruit. ','Apis cerana indica, Pumpkin, Pollination efficiency, Foraging activity, Bees abundance, Pollination efficiency','The cross pollination activity of A. cerana indica, an efficient pollinator of pumpkins, significantly enhances production outcomes. During the duration of the trial, the A. cerana indica colony growth parameter also began to rise. To increase the output of pumpkin and honey, planned pollination by bees with A. cerana indica is thus the best choice for farmers and beekeepers.','-','Kedswin K.S., Srinivasan M.R., Saminathan V.R., Preetha G. and Thangamani C. (2023). Pollination Potential of (Apis cerana indica) in Pumpkin (Cucurbita moschata Duchex Poir). Biological Forum – An International Journal, 15(5a): 181-186.'),(7077,'163','Constraints Faced by Trainees and Resource Persons during Virtual Training Programme on Poultry Production Management','Naveen Kumar, M.P. Sagar, Rita Bharti, B. Saivinay and Khan Aaqib Rashid ','Constraints-Faced-by-Trainees-and-Resource-Persons-during-Virtual-Training-Programme-on-Poultry-Production-Management-Naveen-Kumar-31.pdf','',1,'There are many virtual platforms for teaching and distance learning exist and being used but after occurrence of Covid -19, these online platforms got sudden rise. Teachers and students used these virtual platforms to cope up with situation aroused of Covid -19. Most of the resource persons and learners (students, farmers, and youths) used them first time and they were not familiar with this methodology hence they are bound to face certain constraints while using this methodology. The present study was conducted to identify constraints faced by trainees and resource persons during virtual training programmes on poultry production management and other virtual activities. Structured questionnaire (Google form) was developed and sent to 220 successful trainees of different training programmes and out of that, only 143 trainees had responded and on the other hand, 18 resource persons responded. The results revealed that major constraint reported by trainees was “lack of operational (practical) knowledge” (I Rank) as trainees cannot see practical physically followed by “power failure, poor and interrupted data connectivity” (II Rank), “high cost of data (recharge) for internet connectivity” (III Rank), Various constraints were also faced by resource persons viz; poor and interrupted internet connectivity, noise by participants during lecture due to unmute again and again. Conclusively the constraints are related to communication technology and infrastructure, which can be resolved by developing or improving infrastructure and frequent use of virtual platforms.','Poultry, trainee, resource person, constraints','cost initial investment, high and early economic return, livelihood and nutritional security among the poor families. Although virtual (online) mode of training is best in many ways but it also has many demerits and operational difficulties posed to resource person and learners. \r\nThe most important constraints were lack of operational (practical) knowledge faced by trainees during online training in comparison to residential programmes (offline). In offline mode, trainees are physical present at training venue to see and perform the skill-based activities, which affect the learning of learners. The other economic and infrastructural constraints were also faced by trainees. Technological and operational aspect of online platform also creates problems when users did not have expertise. Various constraints were also faced by resource persons at the time of virtual training programme because of passing through learning phase of virtual training system, the most serious ones were poor and interrupted internet connectivity, noise by participants during lecture due to unmute again and again, sometimes operational difficulty in presentation due to unexpected behaviour of online platform, lack of knowledge for fullest use of the online platform, and disturbance (writing on power point) by participants. From these findings, it may be concluded that these constraints are cropped up because of lack of expertise in use of online platform and weak connectivity due to non-availability of required infrastructure. These constraints can be overcome by developing good digital facilities, expertise (capacity building) and confidence in trainers and trainees. \r\n','-','Naveen Kumar, M.P. Sagar, Rita Bharti, B. Saivinay and Khan Aaqib Rashid (2023). Constraints Faced by Trainees and Resource Persons during Virtual Training Programme on Poultry Production Management. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 15(5a): 187-189.'),(7078,'163','Goat Body Weight Determinants with Fundamental Parameters','Dinesh Kumar Sunwasiya, Naveen Kumar, Prakash Chandra Sanwal, Devendra Prasad Pateer, Lokesh Kumar Chandolia, Vilshan Chouhan, Yogesh Kadela ','Goat-Body-Weight-Determinants-with-Fundamental-Parameters-Dinesh-Kumar-Sunwasiya-32.pdf','',1,'Basic facts regarding Sirohi goats\' body weights (Kg) at different ages are provided. 1055 animals, totalling 340 males and 715 females, have been included in the data for various purposes. At birth and then every 30 days up to 365 days, the average body weights for both sexes. There were 32.33 percent male and 60.7 percent females in the current research of data from birth to 360 days of age. Only animals that remained alive from birth to age 12 were taken into account. For body weights measured from birth to 360 days of age, the coefficient of variation (CV) ranged from 19.99 to 32.50 percent. For body weight, the coefficient of variation (CV) ranged from 19.72 to 36.59 percent for male children and 18.11 to 29.76 percent for female children. This could be as a result of several environmental influences that affect an individual\'s body weight. Animals\' body weights with high range coefficients of variation demonstrated good room for improvement. By choosing sires with strong genetic potential or by creating better environmental conditions, this could be improved.','Body weight, coefficient of variation, Sire, Sirohi goat','The coefficient of variation (CV) for body weight may result from a variety of environmental factors that have an impact on an individual\'s body weight. Body weights of animals that had significant range coefficients of variation showed that there was opportunity for improvement. This could be enhanced by selecting sires with high genetic potential or by promoting better environmental conditions. The findings of this study can be used to aid plan farm management strategies and decision-making on the culling of poor animals and the selection of animals that are highly productive simply based on their growth.','-','Dinesh Kumar Sunwasiya, Naveen Kumar, Prakash Chandra Sanwal, Devendra Prasad Pateer, Lokesh Kumar Chandolia, Vilshan Chouhan, Yogesh Kadela (2023). Goat Body Weight Determinants with Fundamental Parameters. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 15(5a): 190-194.'),(7079,'163','Common Medicinal Plants helpful in managing Disease Burden of Uttar Pradesh- A Critical Review','Sharma D., Kondalkar S. A., Baheti S. R., Vishwakarma P. K., Kondalkar A. and Babu G. ','Common-Medicinal-Plants-helpful-in-managing-Disease-Burden-of-Uttar-Pradesh--A-Critical-Review-Dr-Deepa-Sharma-33.pdf','',1,'As per Uttar Pradesh Health Dossier 2021 approximately 77.73 % population of Uttar Pradesh is from rural areas, and one of the major health indicators. The percentage share of Total Disease Burden in terms of the percentage of disability-adjusted life years accountable for communicable maternal, neonatal, and nutritional diseases is 40.5% which is higher than the national value, i.e.,33%; the State Health Department expenditure as a share of total percentage expenditure is higher (5.3%) than national value (5%). The most prevalent diseases in U.P. according to recent studies are COPD, Diarrhoeal diseases, Ischaemic heart disease, Lower respiratory infections and Tuberculosis. The region is having wide range of natural resources and flora. After thorough study and data analysis, prevalent diseases in state and available native medicinal plants were identified based on the available reports and scientific literature. Some of the plants were identified to possess pharmacological actions that can be beneficial in combating the disease burden of state as promising alternative to costly medicines and pharmaceuticals. Agricultural techniques may also be utilized and communicated to prime cultivators in identified areas to promote cultivation of such medicinal plants. This study may help promote the utilization of locally available plants for health benefits and healthier society and, at the same time, may contribute in decreasing the state\'s health expenditure.','Medicinal Plants, Ayurveda, Medicinal Use, Diseases burden, Uttar Pradesh','High expenditure over drugs and pharmaceuticals is a problem for developing countries however, rational and cost-effective approach for the treatment could be the solution. In order to achieve this, there is a need to understand and explore the role of native plants which are available nearby easily, to prevent/ manage the most prevalent diseases. This approach may also serve as a tool for customized medication for individual problems as well as patients. It is important to note that local naturally available plants are more suited to the inhabitants. Therefore, it will have a significant impact on healthcare system and lead to a healthy society. ','-','Sharma D., Kondalkar S. A., Baheti S. R., Vishwakarma P. K., Kondalkar A. and Babu G. (2023). Common Medicinal Plants helpful in managing Disease Burden of Uttar Pradesh- A Critical Review. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 15(5a): 195-202.'),(7080,'163','Therapeutic Management of Canine Diabetes Mellitus using Combination of Insulin and Momordica charantia Capsules','Dilip Singh Meena, Nazeer Mohammed, Kartar Singh, Aarif Khan, Pradeep Kumar, Subhash Chand Meena and Vishambhar Dayal Sharma','Therapeutic-Management-of-Canine-Diabetes-Mellitus-using-Combination-of-Insulin-and-Momordica-charantia-Capsules-Dilip-Singh-Meena-34.pdf','',1,'This study\'s goal was to find out the effect of Momordica charantia capsules, insulin hormone and a high-fiber diet on the treatment of diabetic dogs. The study included eight client-owned dogs with naturally occurring diabetes mellitus. All dogs were given restricted fat, high-fiber diets and daily subcutaneous insulin injections. Momordica charantia capsules were given orally to four dogs in the treatment group at a dosage of 200 mg/kg body weight (BW) every 12 hours along with insulin for 21 days after that only Momordica charantia capsules orally administration for two months. The control group of four dogs only received insulin therapy. The fasting blood glucose concentrations were significantly lower after taking Momordica charantia capsules (200 mg/kg body weight/day) for 2 months compared to the control group and before treatment. In conclusion, the use of glycemic control was enhanced more effectively by the use of the Momordica charantia capsules at 200 mg/kg BW/day when paired with a low-fat, high-fiber diet than by the use of insulin alone in diabetes treatment. The main challenge regarding herbal therapy in canine diabetes mellitus is that its effects are varied according to individual animal blood glucose concentration levels and also take a long time to show their results. ','Diabetes, Dogs, Glucose, Insulin, Momordica charantia','In combination with insulin and Momordica charantia capsules at a dosing rate of 200 mg/kg/day effectively reduced blood fasting glucose concentration. Momordica charantia capsules demonstrated an insulin-mimetic action and could enhance glycaemia management in naturally occurring diabetes when combined with insulin therapy and a low-fat, high-fiber diet. ','-','Dilip Singh Meena, Nazeer Mohammed, Kartar Singh, Aarif Khan, Pradeep Kumar, Subhash Chand Meena and Vishambhar Dayal Sharma (2023). Therapeutic Management of Canine Diabetes Mellitus using Combination of Insulin and Momordica charantia Capsules. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 15(5a): 203-208.'),(7081,'163','Antibiogram Pattern of Bacillus cereus isolated from Milk and Milk Products in Udaipur City of Rajasthan, India','Subhash Chand Meena, Abhishek Gaurav, S.S. Shekhawat, Kartar Singh, Nazeer Mohammed, Dilip Singh Meena and Aarif Khan ','Antibiogram-Pattern-of-Bacillus-cereus-isolated-from-Milk-and-Milk-Products-in-Udaipur-City-of-Rajasthan,-India-Subhash-Chand-Meena-35.pdf','',1,'This study was conducted in Udaipur city of Rajasthan, and aimed to analyse the antibiogram of Bacillus cereus isolated from dairy products. A total of 160 samples, including raw pooled market milk (n=20), ice cream (n = 20), milk powder (n = 20), pasteurised milk (n = 20), paneer (n = 20), dahi (n = 20), khoa (n = 20), and butter (n = 20), were processed for the isolation, identification, and antibiotic susceptibility pattern of Bacillus cereus. All the isolates from milk and milk products were tested throughout the trial for susceptibility to a total of 12 different antibiotics. The antibiogram study showed that all the isolates had 100% sensitivity to amikacin and 100% resistance to ampicillin (100%), methicillin (100%) and penicillin-G (100%). The main challenge regarding in this study is that since milk is a perishable thing so we have to quickly analyse the samples and it is also used to make variety of products, so we need to collects large number of samples to know the antibiogram pattern.','Bacillus cereus, milk, milk products, antibiogram, resistance, sensitive','It was determined that the high amount of Bacillus cereus contamination in milk and milk products poses a risk to human consumption. The widespread use of antibiotics as a growth stimulant in animals creates bacteria that pose a risk to the public\'s health. As a result of the findings, more has to be done to improve the hygienic conditions for milk production, processing, and packing.','-','Subhash Chand Meena, Abhishek Gaurav, S.S. Shekhawat, Kartar Singh, Nazeer Mohammed, Dilip Singh Meena and Aarif Khan (2023). Antibiogram Pattern of Bacillus cereus isolated from Milk and Milk Products in Udaipur City of Rajasthan, India . Biological Forum – An International Journal, 15(5a): 209-213.'),(7082,'163','Physical Properties of (Basmati CSR 30) variety Cultivated in Jammu Region of India','Divakar Chaudhary, Sushil Sharma, Divya Sharma, Divya Chadha and Kamendra ','Physical-Properties-of-(Basmati-CSR-30)-variety-Cultivated-in-Jammu-Region-of-India-Divakar-Chaudhary-36.pdf','',1,'Physical properties of paddy seeds plays a crucial role in designing and development of different parts of farm machinery. The understanding of these properties also proves useful in developing an ergonomically fit machine. In the present study, some of the engineering properties such as size, volume, surface area, angle of repose, porosity, etc. of raw paddy (variety Basmati CSR 30) are discussed briefly. At moisture content of 13-16 % (w.b.), the average grain length, width and thickness were 11.02 mm, 2.30 mm and 1.92 mm, respectively. The sphericity and aspect ratio were 31.34 and 0.22% respectively. ','Paddy, Basmati, Physical properties','Basmati CSR 30 is one of the most popular varieties grown in the Jammu division of Jammu and Kashmir and is known for its cooking quality and scented nature. The physical properties such as length, width, thickness, equivalent diameter, volume surface area, aspect ratio, sphericity, thousand grain weight, angle of repose, true density, bulk density and porosity of Basmati CSR 30 were calculated in the study. The study concluded that at moisture content of 13-16% (w.b.), the average grain length, width, thickness, sphericity and aspect ratio were 11.02 mm, 2.30 mm, 1.92 mm, 31.34 and 0.22% respectively.','-','Divakar Chaudhary, Sushil Sharma, Divya Sharma, Divya Chadha and Kamendra (2023). Physical Properties of (Basmati CSR 30) variety Cultivated in Jammu Region of India. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 15(5a): 214-216.'),(7083,'163','Development and Optimization of ELISA for Serum Samples of Bovine Origin','Shweta Yadav, Sushil Kumar, A.K. Mohanty, J.K. Kaushik and Sudarshan Kumar','Development-and-Optimization-of-ELISA-for-Serum-Samples-of-Bovine-Origin-Shweta-Yadav-37.pdf','',1,'The enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA) is a commonly used analytical immunochemistry assay based on the specific bond between the antigen and the antibody. The application of this test has significantly changed the practice of animal laboratories in which it is used for detection and quantification of molecules such as hormones, peptides, antibodies, and proteins. Various technical variants of this test can detect antigen (native or foreign) or antibody, determine the intensity of the protein response whether pathological or not; the type of induced immune response as well as the innate immunity potential; and much more. These capabilities, as well as the high sensitivity and robustness of the test and a small price, make it quick and reliable diagnostic assay. Despite being used for nearly 50 years, a variety of ELISA tests with different technical solutions are still being developed, improving and extending the application of this outstanding test. Some challenges of the study are 1. Optimizing and standardizing enzyme immunoassays for veterinary applications may involve dealing with complex matrices in animal samples, which can introduce interfering substances affecting the assay\'s accuracy and specificity. 2. Validating the performance of ELISA tests for various veterinary molecules requires addressing issues related to cross-reactivity, sensitivity, and reproducibility, especially when dealing with diverse animal species and varying physiological conditions. 3. Developing and implementing new technical variants of ELISA while ensuring their reliability and comparability to existing methods pose challenges in terms of establishing appropriate reference standards and controls for accurate result interpretation. The purpose of this research article is optimization, standardization and validation of enzyme immunoassays in the veterinary field by overcoming all the challenges.','ELISA, Optimization, Validation, Antigen and Antibody','In order to avoid non-specific binding of antigens and antibodies to the microtiter well, bovine serum albumin (BSA) is utilized as a blocking agent (Xiao and Isaacs 2012). Additionally, blocking agents can minimize non-specific interactions and stabilize the biomolecules attached to the well surface (Gibbs and Kennebunk 2001).\r\nAmong the three blocking reagents, PBST showed higher background means excessive colour development. 1% BSA was used as blocking agent worked better than PBST. Since BSA is also from bovine origin (Majorek et al., 2012), it may affect the binding as well as can show cross reactivity with serum samples of bovines. Thus, to overcome this we used boiled 1% BSA which showed the best result (Fig. 1) among the three blocking reagents used. \r\nThere are many components in serum samples, such as carbohydrates, proteins, and phospholipids that can interfere with the ability of the antibody pairs to bind to their target. This phenomenon is known as the \"Matrix Effect\". Due to this OD readings much lower than expected is obtained. Thus, dilution was best way to mitigate matrix effect and also allows the samples to fall under the range of standards. The selection of the diluent is crucial since samples must nearly always be diluted before being used in an ELISA test (Minic and Zivkovic 2020).\r\nIt can be clearly observed from the results that matrix effect can be overcome by diluting the samples in 1:8 ratios in 1X PBST buffer (pH 7.4) so that one can achieve proper optimization in terms of OD reading for detecting the target samples.\r\nIt can be clearly observed from the results (Table 1 (B), that matrix effect can be overcome by diluting the samples in proper ratio so that one can achieve proper optimization in terms of OD reading for detecting the target samples.\r\nAfter optimization of ELISA, the standard curve generated has shown R² = 0.9908 (Fig. 2) which would be considered perfect. Thus, it was concluded that the above optimization along with optimization of antibodies concentration has worked best for generation of standard curve based on the OD of samples.\r\n','-','Shweta Yadav, Sushil Kumar, A.K. Mohanty, J.K. Kaushik and Sudarshan Kumar (2023). Development and Optimization of ELISA for Serum Samples of Bovine Origin. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 15(5a): 217-221.'),(7084,'163','In vitro Cholesterol Assimilation and Functional Enzymatic activities of Lactobacillus sp.','S. Jenny, N. Sathammai Priya and E. Priya ','In-vitro-Cholesterol-Assimilation-and-Functional-Enzymatic-activities-of-Lactobacillus-sp.-S-Jenny-38.pdf','',1,'Probiotics are live microorganisms that are stated to have health benefits when consumed to the body. They can be found in various products such as yogurt and other fermented foods, dietary supplements, and beauty products. Experiments were carried out to determine some important health beneficial properties of probiotic isolates such as cholesterol lowering capacity and bile salt hydrolase activity. The potential probiotic lactic acid bacteria was isolated from various sources and determine efficient probiobic from acid tolerance and bile tolerance with the selection of potential probiotics with cholesterol assimilation property and to evaluate the effect of probiotic with anti-inflammatory property. Selected probiotics bacteria are found to produce bile salt hydrolase (BSH) that helps to reduce serum cholesterol and hence, the aim of the present study was to isolate, identify and screen for potential probioticlactic acid bacteria with bile salt hydrolase activity and cholesterol lowering capacity. The results elucidated that the Lactobacillus sp. has the potential probiotic activity and facilitated in vitro cholesterol assimilation and functional enzymatic activities.','Probiotics, lactic acid bacteria, bile salts, cholesterol assimilation, anti-inflammatory','The present study demonstrated that the Lactobacillus sp. was isolated from different sources and identified as based on their morphological, biochemical and enzymatic characteristic features. The results confirmed that Lactobacillus acidophilus was found to have the most potential effectiveness as a probiotic based on its acid and bile tolerance, cholesterol-lowering effects and Anti-inflammatory property. From this study, it can be concluded that the capability to assimilate cholesterol and useful enzymatic activities of Lactobacillus sp. which have a potential to be used as a starter culture for the preparation of functional fermented probiotic foods. However, the production of these lesser-known unexplored ethnic food products could be commercialized for their health benefits and will help in formulating probiotics for therapeutic applications.','-','S. Jenny, N. Sathammai Priya and E. Priya (2023). In vitro Cholesterol Assimilation and Functional Enzymatic activities of Lactobacillus sp. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 15(5a): 222-226.'),(7085,'163','Yield and quality of Guava is Influenced by Plant Growth Promoting Microbial Isolates','Akshay Ingole, Syed Ismail and Anil Dhamak ','Yield-and-quality-of-Guava-is-Influenced-by-Plant-Growth-Promoting-Microbial-Isolates-AKSHAY-INGOLE-39.pdf','',1,'A field experiment was conducted to evaluate the effect of plant growth promoting microbial isolates on yield and quality of guava, during kharif season of 2019 and 2020 on Vertisol. The experiment was laid out in randomized block design with eleven treatments (Ten microbial isolate and one uninoculated control) and three replications. The laboratory stock cultures of microbial isolate (Bacillus subtilis, Bacillus lecheniformis, Bacillus megaterium, Bacillus thuringiensis, Pseudomonas fluorescens, Pseudomonas striata, Trichoderma viride. Trichoderma herzenium, Azotobacter chroococcum and Azospirillum lipoferum) selected and tested in field condition. Recommended dose of fertilizers is common for all treatments. In results it was observed that guava plant or row treated with treatment RDF+ Pseudomonas striata showed significant superiority in terms of number of fruits per plant, average fruit weight, yield and improved quality which was followed by RDF+ Trichoderma viride and RDF + Bacillus megaterium.','Field experiment, PGPR, yield and quality of guava','It is evident from the above Results discussion that the plant growth promoting microorganisms (bacteria or fungi) plays an important role in enhancing the crop productivity by various direct as well as indirect mechanisms. The effect of these microorganisms has been shown by various workers either using singly or in consortium of more than one type of microorganism and predicted that the dual inoculation of PGPR has showed better results as compared with the single inoculations. The present study with plant growth promoting isolates and guava crop revealed that inoculation with Pseudomonas striata along with RDF of NPK followed by Trichoderma viride and Bacillus megaterium were found considerably effective in enhancing growth, yield and maintaining quality of guava crop. These microbial isolates can be explored as bioinput for improving plant growth and also to correct the nutrients deficiency in guava.','-','Akshay Ingole, Syed Ismail and Anil Dhamak (2023). Yield and quality of Guava is Influenced by Plant Growth Promoting Microbial Isolates. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 15(5a): 227-233.'),(7086,'163','Antioxidant Activity of Medicinal Plants: A Review','S.Z. Sayyed, P.N. Nagane and A.A. Kulkarni','Antioxidant-Activity-of-Medicinal-Plants-A-Review-P-N-Nagane-40.pdf','',1,'According to some studies, two-thirds of all species of plants have medicinal properties. The ability to provide antioxidants of medicinal plants is extremely significant. Antioxidants decrease the oxidative stress in cells so they are useful in the treatment of many human diseases, like cardiovascular diseases, diabetes, atherosclerosis, coronary artery disease, liver diseases, cataracts, nephrotoxicity, and neurodegenerative processes associated with aging, inflammatory diseases and cancer. Each part of the plant has unique therapeutic characteristics and contains several secondary metabolites that have crucial for the treatment of various diseases. The antioxidant activity of plant parts such as stems, roots, bark, leaves, fruits, and seeds of various prominent medicinal species are discussed in the present article. There are also synthetic antioxidants, butylated hydroxytoluene (BHT) and butylated hydroxyl anisole (BHA), which are currently utilized as food additives and prevent the oxidation of the body caused by free radicals. Similar antioxidant potential can be seen in many plant species. This review updates the knowledge on the antioxidant activity of several medicinal plants and herbs that aid in lowering the levels of oxidative stress. It promotes knowledge of some medicinal plants and herbs antioxidant properties, which are useful in preventing oxidative stress.','Antioxidant, Alkaloids, Flavonoids, Oxidative stress','Plants like Piper rectrofractum, Albizia amara, Cassia fistula, Terminalia arjuna, T. Chebula, Azardirachta indica, Zingiber officinale, Tribulus terrestris, Trigonella foenum graecum, Opuntia dilenii and Phyllanthus emblica etc. are the potent source of antioxidants and are easily available in the surrounding. Various parts of these plants, leaves, fruits, flower, stem, root/ rhizome are used as great source of antioxidants. The increasing external influences of the promoting unchecked production of free radicals are reduced by such raw herbal antioxidants. Endogenous antioxidants are those produced by the body independently and some antioxidants, known as exogenous antioxidants, are received from external sources and satisfy the body\'s dietary requirements. Antioxidants have been shown to possess toxicity and pro-oxidant action which is useful for more research and development. If we take these medicinal plants as part of our diets, antioxidants may enable us to keep our free radical levels low and, as a result, maintain our bodies working normally. This study will advance our understanding of the sources of antioxidants.','-','S.Z. Sayyed, P.N. Nagane and A.A. Kulkarni (2023). Antioxidant Activity of Medicinal Plants: A Review. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 15(5a): 234-241.'),(7087,'162','Seed Germination Enhancement through Plant Growth Promoting Rhizobacteria (PGPR) isolated from Papaya Rhizosphere','Jyoti Bajeli, P.N. Rai, Ranjan Srivastava, Ajay Veer Singh, Aakansha Verma and Akhilesh Negi ','Seed-Germination-Enhancement-through-Plant-Growth-Promoting-Rhizobacteria-(PGPR)-isolated-from-Papaya-Rhizosphere-Jyoti-Bajeli-8.pdf','',1,'The soil around plant roots is known as the rhizosphere, and it is directly impacted by soil microbes. Plant root exudation plays a crucial role in both soil fertility and plant health. Papaya rhizosphere is a very rich zone supplemented with a variety of beneficial bacteria and the soil samples were collected from this rhizosphere for the isolation of the bacterial isolates. The serial dilution of soil samples was carried out in laminar air flow to maintain aseptic conditions. The colony forming unit (CFU) count of samples ranged from 1.17 × 103 to 1.75 × 103. Isolation and purification of morphologically different bacteria were done in 60mm petri-plates. The functional activity test was carried out for purified bacteria for plant growth promoting activity such as phosphorus solubilization, potassium solubilization, siderophore production, and Indole acetic acid (IAA) production. Out of twenty bacterial isolates, 11potassium solubilizing, 6phosphorus solubilizing and 2 Siderophore producing bacterial isolates were obtained. All the isolated were capable of IAA production. Moreover, there was a positive correlation between IAA production, siderophore production, phosphorus and potassium solubilization efficiency of the bacterial isolates. Among the 11 bacterial isolates used in the treatment, PR2d isolate was found to take the minimum days taken for first seed germination (11 days), minimum days taken for 50% seed germination (21 days), per cent of seed germination (97.67 %), minimum mortality rate (4 %) and maximum IAA production (13.32 µg/mL) that promoted the growth and seed parameters of papaya plant, showing a potential use in horticulture production systems.','Papaya, seed germination, rhizosphere, PGPR','This study concludes that the bacterial isolates PR2d obtained from papaya rhizosphere were effective in early seed germination, enhancement of seed germination percentage, increased IAA production and better retention of seedlings in papaya. In order to attain sustainability, the use of bioinoculants is a novel approach that has not been utilized to its fullest potential. Production of fruits like papaya is of urgent need due to its nutritional and medicinal value and also to reduce the toxic residues of chemicals in fruits. Through this research, it can be concluded that novel isolates present in the papaya rhizosphere have great potential to improve seed germination, earliness and reduce mortality in papaya seedlings.','-','Jyoti Bajeli, P.N. Rai, Ranjan Srivastava, Ajay Veer Singh, Aakansha Verma and Akhilesh Negi (2023). Seed Germination Enhancement through Plant Growth Promoting Rhizobacteria (PGPR) isolated from Papaya Rhizosphere. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 15(8): 36-41.'),(7088,'163','Evaluating Growth and Yield of Potato by Intercropping and Humic Acid Application','Shama Devi, Kanwaljit Singh Sandhu and Kanik Kumar Bansal ','Evaluating-Growth-and-Yield-of-Potato-by-Intercropping-and-Humic-Acid-Application-Kanik-Kumar-Bansal-41.pdf','',1,'The field experiment was conducted at Student’s Research Farm, Khalsa College, Amritsar, Punjab, during Rabi season of 2022-23 to investigate the effect of intercropping and humic acid application on the productivity of potato. The experiment was laid out as a split plot design (SPD) with replicated three times viz. Four intercropping treatments (sole potato, potato + coriander, potato + lettuce, potato + methi) and six fertility treatments (HA0 (Control), HA1(Soil application of HA @7.5kg/ha), HA2(Foliar application of HA @7.5kg/ha in three splits at 25, 40 and 55 DAP), HA3 (Soil application of HA @15kg/ha), HA4 (Foliar application of HA @15kg/ha in three splits at 25, 40 and 55 DAP), HA5 (Soil application of HA @7.5kg/ha + Foliar application of HA @7.5kg/ha in three splits at 25, 40 and 55 DAP) were tried. All the intercropping treatment doesn’t show any significant effect on the growth parameter of the potato. The fertility treatments significantly affect growth parameters except days taken to plant emergence, emergence percentage and days taken to tuber initiation. The data revealed that the maximum growth parameters viz., plant height, stems/hill, leaf area index and total tuber yield were obtained in treatment HA3 (Soil application of HA @15kg/ha).','Growth, Humic Acid, Intercropping, Potato, Yield','The study revealed that all three intercrops did not affect the growth parameters of potato negatively. The application of humic acid (soil application of HA @15kg/ha) to soil was more effective than foliar application as well as soil plus foliar application. Humic acid application to soil at the rate of 15 kg/ha improves the growth and yield of potato.','-','Shama Devi, Kanwaljit Singh Sandhu and Kanik Kumar Bansal (2023). Evaluating Growth and Yield of Potato by Intercropping and Humic Acid Application. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 15(5a): 242-246.'),(7089,'163','Production and Optimization of Biofuel from Lignocellulosic waste using natural Bacterial consortia','V. Aruna, S. Jeyabharathi and N. Jeenathunisa ','Production-and-Optimization-of-Biofuel-from-Lignocellulosic-waste-using-natural-Bacterial-consortia-V-Aruna-42.pdf','',1,'Biofuels are produced from microorganisms as a by product of metabolic activity of organic or cellulosic waste products. The target was achieved the low cast renewable source to fulfil the current requirement. In order to be considered a bio fuel the fuel must contain over 80% renewable materials. Ethanol is and highly demand bio fuel made from feed stocks such as different food crops and food crop wastes after the pre-treatment. We explore such the bacterial consortium that couples the high cellulosic activity of the mixed culture of bacteria to ferment hexose and pentose sugars to ethanol. The present study we analysed the three bacterial consortia for the degradation of the agro cellulosic waste such as turmeric stem, bamboo leaf, orange peel and Jack fruit inner peel by submerged fermentation for cellulose production. In quantification of biofuel, bacterial species Enterobacter sp (SA-02), was most efficient and produced maximum amount of bio ethanol on the sixth day of incubation it showed 2.04g/l ethanol. Further findings showed that Bacillus sp (SA-05), Pseudomonas sp (SA-07) played on efficient role in 5.60 g/l and 4.03 g/l respectively and bacterial consortia showed the maximum level of enzyme activities and pattern of ethanol production. The optimization study for ethanol production makes clear to the fact that high temperature and pH, only 350c and pH 8 were considered optimum. At the optimum substrate concentration was found to be 10.25 g/l after 6 days of incubation which summed as a total yield of 0.132 g of ethanol per g of dried Jack fruit inner peel. This current study evaluates the potential of turmeric stem, bamboo leaf, orange peel and Jack fruit inner peel as a production. These existing studies evaluate the potential jack fruit inner peel as a probable substrate for ethanol production. We found that Natural bacterial consortia showed the efficient production is required to make the process industrially feasible.','Ethanol, bacterial consortia, fermentation, optimization, Enzyme activity','Bio ethanol is one of the most suitable and cost effective bio fuel. In our current finding we gained bio ethanol from four orange peel, turmeric stem, bamboo leaves and jack fruit inner peel collected from local market around Trichy. With a isolation of bacterial consortium containing Enterobacter sp (SA-02), Bacillus sp (SA-05) and Pseudomonas sp (SA-07), the ethanol was produced by fermentation process. After 10 days we could gained10.25± 0.34 G/L ethanol from jack fruit inner peel as a best substrate and maintaining PH of 6 and of 30°C. We could infer that more concentrated form of ethanol could be obtained by distillation. The more concentrated ethanol could be used as a bio fuel, which releases no toxic gases out in the environment. As a result, the findings of this study show cases the effects of different pre-treatment, processing and optimization methods for the production of bio ethanol from variety of agro wastes.','-','V. Aruna, S. Jeyabharathi and N. Jeenathunisa (2023). Production and Optimization of Biofuel from Lignocellulosic waste using natural Bacterial consortia. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 15(5a): 247-252.'),(7090,'163','Evaluation of Fodder bajra (Pennisetum glaucum L.) performance to the Foliar Application of Nano Urea liquid on Yield attributes and Economics','M. Srivani, P. Satish, S.A. Hussain and K. Shailaja ','Evaluation-of-Fodder-bajra-(Pennisetum-glaucum-L.)-performance-to-the-Foliar-Application-of-Nano-Urea-liquid-on-Yield-attributes-and-Economics-M.-Srivani-43.pdf','',1,'Optimum nutrient management for good yields with reducing cost of cultivation is desirable for cultivation of fodder crops. In order to evaluate the best practice for nitrogen management in fodder bajra with urea and nano urea applications, the present investigation was carried out during rabi 2021 with 6 treatments and 4 replications in randomised block design at College farm, College of Agriculture, Rajendranagar, Hyd-30, Telangana, in sandy loam soils. The study disclosed that urea application @27 kg N/ha each at basal, 20 & 40 DAS (T2) recorded significantly at par with basal urea application @27 kg N/ha + foliar spray of nano urea liquid @2.5 ml/l each at 20 & 40 DAS with respect to fodder bajra growth and yield. 100 % RDN application through urea recorded higher results w.r.t economics over other treatment applications. Hence, N management through urea and also urea + nano urea liquid foliar spray @2.5 ml/l might be the best combination among other foliar spray rates for obtaining best use efficiency and sustainability.','Nitrogen, nano urea liquid, leaf to stem ratio, urea, foliar spray, fodder bajra','Based on the present analysis, it can be concluded that basal urea application @ 27 kg N/ha & foliar spray of liquid nano urea @ 2.5 ml/l each at 20 and 40 DAS could be the best nitrogen management practice. However, urea application @ 27 kg N/ha each at basal, 20 and 40 DAS as 100% RDN application through urea recorded statistically on par with urea & liquid nano urea foliar sprays @2.5 ml/l each at 20 and 40 DAS w.r.t yield attributes and yield of fodder bajra. 100% RDN application through urea recorded higher returns and B: C ratio over other treatment applications.','-','M. Srivani, P. Satish, S.A. Hussain and K. Shailaja (2023). Evaluation of Fodder bajra (Pennisetum glaucum L.) performance to the Foliar Application of Nano Urea liquid on Yield attributes and Economics. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 15(5a): 253-257.'),(7091,'163','Effect of Green Manures and Bio-fertilizers on quality and Yield of Mango (Mangifera indica L.) cv. Amrapali','H.T. Patel, N.I. Shah and H.L. Chaudhary','Effect-of-Green-Manures-and-Bio-fertilizers-on-quality-and-Yield-of-Mango-(Mangifera-indica-L.)-cv.-Amrapali-HL-CHAUDHARY-44.pdf','',1,'Mango, known as the \"King of Fruits,\" is the most important fruit crop in India. However, residual toxicity from agro-chemicals presents a significant challenge for capturing international markets. By adopting organic farming we can go for the production of safe and high-quality mangoes. To explore this approach, a study was undertaken to evaluate the response of mango trees to a combination of bio-fertilizers and green manure-based organic treatments. The study, titled \"Effect of Green Manures and Bio-Fertilizers on Quality and Yield of Mango (Mangifera indica L.) cv. Amrapali,\" was carried out during the years 2018-19 and 2019-20 at the Horticultural Research Farm and P.G. Laboratory of the Department of Horticulture at B.A. College of Agriculture, Anand Agricultural University, Anand (Gujarat). The results showed that the treatment of double green manuring of sunhemp and 10ml of Bio NPK consortium per tree produced the best quality mangoes. This treatment resulted in the highest levels of total soluble solids (23.05 oBrix), reducing sugar (8.01%), total sugar (19.98%), ascorbic acid content (43.73 mg/100g pulp) and lower titrable acidity (0.175%). Additionally, this treatment led to the maximum fruit yield with the greatest number of fruits per tree (268.98), highest fruit weight (192.39 g), maximum fruit yield (52.86 kg/tree or 14.64 t/ha) and graded fruit yield A, B, and C kg per tree. Overall, the study demonstrates the efficacy of green manuring and bio-fertilizers as an organic approach to enhance mango quality and yield.','Organic Farming, Mango, Sunhemp, Dhaincha, Biofertilizer','The findings of the present investigation suggest that the application of double green manuring of sunhemp in the canopy area along with the use of 10 ml Bio NPK consortium per tree can significantly improve quality parameters such as TSS, acidity, total sugar, reducing sugar, and ascorbic acid. Moreover, it can enhance yield contributing parameters such as the number of fruits per tree, average fruit weight, fruit yield in kg per tree, and estimated fruit yield in tonnes per hectare in mango cv. Amrapali. These results provide useful information for farmers and researchers who are interested in adopting organic farming practices to achieve better quality and yield in fruit crops.','-','H.T. Patel, N.I. Shah and H.L. Chaudhary (2023). Effect of Green Manures and Bio-fertilizers on quality and Yield of Mango (Mangifera indica L.) cv. Amrapali. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 15(5a): 258-263.'),(7092,'163','Structural Diversity, Distribution Pattern and Regeneration of Forest communities in Shivalik Hills, Himachal Pradesh, North Western Himalaya','Jyoti, S.S. Samant, L.M. Tewari, Shiv Paul and Amit Singh, Kiran Bala and Priya Thakur ','Structural-Diversity,-Distribution-Pattern-and-Regeneration-of-Forest-communities-in-Shivalik-Hills,-Himachal-Pradesh,-North-Western-Himalaya-Jyoti-45.pdf','',1,'Shivalik hills of the Himachal Pradesh are blessed with divine floral and faunal wealth. Forests of these hills provide life support not only to the people of Himachal Pradesh, but also to those in the plains. The present study has been conducted in the seven districts of Himachal Pradesh, to evaluate the diversity and distribution of vegetation in different forest types and their regeneration pattern. Surveys were conducted between 300-1500 m amsl in all districts of Shivalik in all the seasons of the years from 2015-2018. Standard ecological methods were followed for collection and processing of field data. Total 33 communities have been identified based on Importance Value Index and relative density. Out of 33 communities, 32 were tree communities while 01 community was of shrub. Maximum sites were represented by Pinus roxburghii (40 sites), followed by Acacia catechu (13 sites), Eucalyptus tereticornis (11 sites) and Shorea robusta (10 sites). From the identified tree communities, total tree density was ranged from 160-1015 Ind ha-1; total basal area ranged from 0.54-105.17 m2 ha-1; total shrubs density from 570-2180 Ind ha-1; total herbs density from 25.06-61.1 Ind m-2; total saplings density from 140-1375 Ind ha-1 and total seedings density from 150-1035 Ind ha-1. Species richness among all the identified communities ranged from 30-262. Species diversity (H΄) for trees ranged from 0.48-2.41, saplings, 0.98-3.36, seedlings, 0.06-2.31, shrubs, 1.26-3.65 and herbs, 2.14-3.43. Concentration of dominance for trees ranged from 0.10-0.80, saplings, 0.06-0.66, seedlings, 0.09-0.68, shrubs, 0.05-0.44 and herbs, 0.02-.015. Seven (07) communities were identified with highest regeneration of dominant species, 05 communities were identified under highest regeneration of co-dominant species, 07 communities were identified under poor regeneration of dominant and co-dominant species and rest 14 communities were identified under mixed forest communities with highest regeneration of one species. Of the total species, recorded 151 were found native to Indian Himalayan Region. Natural and anthropogenic activities, habitat degradation and biological invasion across Shivalik hills are major causes for the loss of floristic diversity. Continuing degradation of floristic diversity in the region has led to a demand of growing concern and a sense of urgency in the context of seeking strategies, which can ensure the sustainability management and conservation of forests.','Shivalik, Invasive, Monitoring, Management, Species diversity','The Himalaya one of the largest and youngest mountain chain in the world covers close to 16.2 % of India’s total geographical area. Despite rich in natural resources, most of its people are marginalized and still live on subsistence level. The unscientific exploitation of natural resources is one of the leading reasons for environmental degradation and aggravating the impact of natural hazards. Vulnerable mountain ecosystems need proper management against negative climatic and anthropogenic influences for their future sustainability (Halloy and Mark 2003, Holzinger et al., 2008, Erschbamer et al., 2011). Being biodiversity rich belt, the resources in Shivalik hills are utilized by the inhabitants of the region for medicine, food (wild edible), fodder, fuel, timber, making agriculture tools, religious and various other purposes. Rapid exploitation of fodder and fuel species from the forests has been identified as one of the big problems in the region. Area needs strict conservation policies and their proper implementation for conserving biodiversity. But, before the scientific approach to conserve the natural resources from anthropogenic and natural hazards, there is immediate need for education and awareness at community level for conservation (Giam et al., 2010). Great cause for loss of biodiversity is rapid multiplication of invasive species in the Shivalik hills specially Lantana camara. Introduction of invasive species resulted in huge change in regeneration potential of native and endemic plant species. Another important cause for continuous depletion of biodiversity from Shivalik hills is protests from graziers in the high-altitude areas of the Himalaya toward migration of Gujjar community during summers. Due to which they began to stay in the Shivalik hills throughout the year. This results in deviation from the traditional pattern of grazing for their cattles resulting in their hold for grazing in the Shivalik forests throughout the year. This results in poor regeneration of fodder land wild edible plant species. Apart from Gujjars, there are many communities who live nearby forests throughout the year and totally depend upon forest resources for their day to day needs. Reckless cutting of trees and shrubs of nearby forests for agriculture is also one of the reasons for loss of bio resources. Long monsoon inundations also lead to further erosion due to low vegetation cover in Shivalik land nearby riversides. Also, developmental activities specially mining and drilling are also going on with fast rate which is also expected to pose a major threat to biodiversity of the region in future.\r\nStrategies for biodiversity conservation and management. Although government is taking strict steps in destroying these invasive species but still scientific approach and involvement of scientific communities is lacking. Local involvement of communities at village level and involvement of forest department is essential so that steps can be initiated at grass root level. In order to conserve biodiversity of the region, management authorities, ecologists and local communities need to initiate speedy actions like; (i) Steps in eradication of weed species and restoration of degraded areas; (ii) Better grazing practices and knowledge about sustainability to grazers; (iii) Sustainable harvesting of ethnobotanical plants; (iv) Proper coordination between research and development agencies; (v) Steps should be taken to avoid the heavy loss in rainy season; (vi) Database development through regular monitoring of communities would help in developing adequate management plan for their conservation.\r\n','-','Jyoti, S.S. Samant, L.M. Tewari, Shiv Paul and Amit Singh, Kiran Bala and Priya Thakur (2023). Structural Diversity, Distribution Pattern and Regeneration of Forest communities in Shivalik Hills, Himachal Pradesh, North Western Himalaya. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 15(5a): 264-281.'),(7093,'162','Seed Enhancement Treatments for Improved Performance in Chilli \r\n(Capsicum annuum L.)\r\n','Jayasri Sundarraj, Sudipta Basu, Sandeep Kumar Lal, Anjali Anand and Mohammed Athar ','Seed Enhancement Treatments for Improved Performance in Chilli -Sudipta Basu-9.pdf','',1,'Rapid seed germination and early emergence are vital for high value vegetable crops like chilli. Pre sowing seed enhancement treatments improve field emergence, speed, early seedling growth and yield especially for various vigour lots under normal and adverse conditions. This study aimed to determine the optimal enhancement protocol for improving the performance of chilli seeds under field conditions. Chilli variety; Arka Lohit was given various seed enhancement treatments with different duration and concentration namely; hydro (24, 48 hr), halo (24, 36, 48 hr), osmo (36, 48 hr), matrix (24, 48 hr) and magneto (50, 100, 150mT) priming and assessed for seed quality. The results showed that hydropriming for 24 hr, halopriming with NaCl @ 2% for 24 hr, osmopriming with PEG 6000 @-1.5 MPa for 36 hr, solid matrix priming with vermiculite for 24 hr and magneto priming @ 50mT for 30 min were found best among the screened treatment combinations for increasing seed germination and vigour of chilli seeds. Subsequently, the optimized seed enhancement treatments were validated under suboptimum and optimum conditions for field emergence. The field emergence was low under suboptimum conditions, wherein maximum emergence was observed with magneto (48%) and solid matrix priming (43%), while under optimum conditions; solid matrix priming (56%) showed highest improvement over control in field emergence. Seed enhancement treatments had beneficial effect on achieving early and uniform emergence, as well as enhancing germination and seedling vigour in chilli seeds. ','Seed priming, temperature, solid matrix priming, magneto priming, germination, vigour index','Seed enhancement treatments had beneficial effect on achieving early and uniform emergence, and enhancing germination and seedling vigour in chilli seeds. Among the various enhancement treatments evaluated, hydropriming for 24 hr, halopriming with 2% NaCl for 24 hr, osmopriming with -1.5 Mpa PEG 6000 for 36 hr, solid matrix priming with vermiculite for 24 hr and magneto priming at 50mT for 30min were found significant for enhancing germination and vigour in chilli seeds. Specifically, solid matrix priming and magneto priming had significant effect on field emergence both under suboptimum and optimum conditions. ','-','Jayasri Sundarraj, Sudipta Basu, Sandeep Kumar Lal, Anjali Anand and Mohammed Athar (2023). Seed Enhancement Treatments for Improved Performance in Chilli (Capsicum annuum L.). Biological Forum – An International Journal, 15(8): 42-46.'),(7094,'151','Review of the Performance of the Konso Goat under Different Management Systems','Dereje Dea Damana','Review-of-the-Performance-of-the-Konso-Goat-under-Different-Management-Systems-Dereje-Dea-Damana-7.pdf','',1,'The aim of the current study was to review the performance of Konso goat reared under different management systems in Konso zone. Previously studied Konso goat performance data were not compiled and updated yet for future breeding programs. Different research papers for Konso goat reared under on-station (semi-intensive) and on-farm (traditional and community-based breeding program) level reported by the different authors were used for the article review. Article reviews have showed that the highest birth weight (BW), weaning weight (WW), six month weight (SW), nine month weight (NW) and yearling weight (YW) were reported for Boar* Konso crossbred (BKC) under semi-intensive on-station level than Pure Konso goats reared under both on-station and on-farm (traditional and community-based breeding program (CBBP)) levels. Konso goats managed at on-station level have performed better at BW and WW vis-a-vis goats managed under traditional and CBBP whereas in contrary for SW, NW and YW. Pre-weaning average daily weight gain (gm) was higher than post-weaning average body weight gain under all management systems. Both pre-weaning and post-weaning mortality were higher for BKC than the rests. Prolificacy was not obtained for pure Konso goat reared under on-station level. Therefore, in line with promising goat CBBPs in rural areas, finisher crossbreeding with Boar goats is better to attain fast meat demand around urban and peri-urban areas nationally.','Goat, Konso zone, Performance, breeding programs','Pure Konso goats raised under community-based breeding are performed superior than nucleus/station indigenous goats reared under semi-intensive management whereas inferior than Boar*Konso crossbred managed at station under semi-intensive management.\r\nAverage daily body weight gain of Boar*Konso crossbred followed by pure Konso goat reflected better pre-weaning weight gain than Konso goats managed under on-farm level (CBBP followed by traditional). On-station crossbred followed by goats reared under CBBP were superior than pure Konso goats managed under station during post-weaning period.\r\nThe higher prolificacy was observed for crossbred goats followed by CBBP. There is no twining recorded for pure Konso goats at on-station level.\r\nHigh kids’ mortality was detected for crossbreds than pure Konso goat during pre and post weaning periods at on-station level\r\nAlmost similar linear body measurements were identified for goats in Gamo and Gofa areas\r\nTherefore, in line with promising goat CBBPs in rural areas, finisher crossbreeding with Boar goats is better to attain fast meat demand around urban and peri-urban areas to accomplish ‘lemat tirufat’ government’s national policy.\r\n','-','-'),(7095,'163','Postharvest quality of Mango (Mangifera indica L.) Cv. Pusa Arunima Fruit as affected by different Physico-Chemical Treatments','Saurabh Kumar Singh, Sanjay Kumar Tripathi, Suresh Chandra, Arvind Kumar, Satya Prakash, Amit Kumar and Vinayak','Postharvest-quality-of-Mango-(Mangifera-indica-L.)-Cv.-Pusa-Arunima-Fruit-as-affected-by-different-Physico-Chemical-Treatments-Saurabh-Kumar-Singh-46.pdf','',1,'The present investigation was carried out at Post Harvest Laboratory, Department of Horticulture and Agro processing centre (CoPHT&FP) of Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel University of Agriculture and Technology, Modipuram, Meerut. The experiment “A study on ripening behaviour and post-harvest life of mango (Mangifera indica L.) cv. Pusa Arunima” was conducted in a Completely Randomized Design with 12 treatments viz. T0 – Ethrel 500 ppm, T1-Ethrel 750 ppm, T2- Ethrel 1000 ppm, T3- CaNO3 1.5%, T4- CaNO3 2%, T5-CaNO3 2.5%, T6- Egg albumin 5%, T7-Egg albumin 10%, T8- Egg albumin 15%, T9- Pedicellate fruits, T10- CaNO3 1.5% + Egg albumin 5% and T11- Control and their 3 replications, during the year 2022. The study presents several challenges, with one of the main difficulties ensuring uniformity in applying the various physicochemical treatments to the mango fruits to obtain reliable and comparable results. Additionally, controlling external factors such as temperature and humidity during the postharvest period can be a significant challenge to accurately assess the impact of these treatments on the fruit\'s quality and shelf life. Out of 12th treatments applied the fruits treated with Ethrel 750 ppm and Ethrel 500 ppm had significantly better fruit quality over other treatments in respect of parameters i.e., Physiological loss in weight, Decay percent, Fruit firmness, Sensory evaluation test, T.S.S., pH, Titrability acidity, reducing sugar. The post-harvest treatment i.e., Pedicellate fruits was found to be next best over other treatments in respect of observations. Based on results obtained from the present study, it can be concluded that Ethrel 500 ppm was found to be the best post-harvest treatment on account of the physical and chemical parameters of Pusa Arunima mango.','Titrability acidity, Post-harvest, Mango, Pusa Arunima, Pedicellate fruits, Reducing sugar','Based on the findings of this study, it can be concluded that Ethrel at a concentration of 750 ppm showed the best treatment for the ripening behaviour of mango cv. Pusa Arunima during the 5th, 10th, and fifteenth day of storage, followed by Ethrel 500 ppm was found to be effective. Ethrel at 750 ppm was observed to positively affect the post-harvest quality of mango fruits. Post-harvest life of mango fruits extended when fruit were treated with Ethrel 500 ppm during the storage period.','-','Saurabh Kumar Singh, Sanjay Kumar Tripathi, Suresh Chandra, Arvind Kumar, Satya Prakash, Amit Kumar and Vinayak (2023). Postharvest quality of Mango (Mangifera indica L.) Cv. Pusa Arunima Fruit as affected by different Physico-Chemical Treatments. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 15(5a): 282-287.'),(7096,'163','Herbal Interventions for Drug-Induced Nephrotoxicity: An Overview of Pedalium murex Linn and Hygrophilla auriculata','Riyazunnisa D., Kanala Somasekhar Reddy and Suggala V. Satyanarayana','Herbal-Interventions-for-Drug-Induced-Nephrotoxicity-An-Overview-of-Pedalium-murex-Linn-and-Hygrophilla-auriculata-Kanala-Somasekhar-Reddy-47.pdf','',1,'Drug-induced nephrotoxicity, a common adverse effect of numerous medications, poses a significant challenge to healthcare providers and patients. Traditional herbal interventions have gained attention as potential therapeutic strategies for mitigating drug-induced nephrotoxicity due to their natural properties and minimal side effects. However, despite their promise, incorporating herbal remedies into conventional treatments presents challenges in terms of standardization, dosage determination, and potential herb-drug interactions. This review article provides an overview of two herbal remedies, Pedalium murex Linn and Hygrophilla auriculata, which have shown promising nephroprotective effects. Pedalium murex Linn, commonly known as \'Gokhru\', has been traditionally used in Ayurvedic medicine for its diuretic, anti-inflammatory, and antioxidant properties. Experimental studies have demonstrated its ability to attenuate drug-induced renal damage, protect against oxidative stress, and reduce inflammation markers in animal models. Hygrophilla auriculata, also known as \'Kokilaksha\', is another herb with potential nephroprotective properties. It possesses antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, and anti-apoptotic effects, which have been shown to prevent drug-induced renal injury and preserve renal function in preclinical studies. The contributions of this review lie in the compilation and critical analysis of scientific evidence on the beneficial effects of Pedalium murex Linn and Hygrophilla auriculata in drug-induced nephrotoxicity. Furthermore, the review discusses the underlying mechanisms of action of these herbal remedies, shedding light on the pathways through which they exert their nephroprotective effects. The challenges associated with integrating herbal interventions into mainstream healthcare are also discussed, emphasizing the importance of further research to establish standardized protocols and assess potential interactions with conventional medications. Overall, this review provides valuable insights into the potential of these herbal remedies as adjunct treatments for drug-induced nephrotoxicity, while highlighting the need for cautious and evidence-based implementation in clinical practice.','Drug-induced nephrotoxicity, Herbal interventions, Pedalium murex Linn, Hygrophilla auriculata, Nephroprotective effects','After reviewing the available literature, it can be concluded that Padalliu murex Linn and Hygrophilla auriculata may have potential for treating drug-induced nephrotoxicity. The phytochemical constituents of both plants have been shown to possess hepatoprotective and antioxidant properties, which could be beneficial for kidney function. Additionally, the diuretic potential of Hygrophilla Auriculata suggests that it may help to eliminate toxins from the body. However, it should be noted that further research is needed to establish the safety and efficacy of these plants in treating nephrotoxicity.','-','Riyazunnisa D., Kanala Somasekhar Reddy and Suggala V. Satyanarayana (2023). Herbal Interventions for Drug-Induced Nephrotoxicity: An Overview of Pedalium murex Linn and Hygrophilla auriculata. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 15(5a): 288-295.'),(7097,'162','Standardization of the suitable Propagation Method in Apple (Malus× domestica Borkh.) under Western Uttar Pradesh conditions','Vinayak, Satya Prakash, Arvind Kumar, S.K. Tripathi, Bijendra Singh, R.S. Sengar, Saurabh Kumar Singh and Amit Kumar','Standardization-of-the-suitable-Propagation-Method-in-Apple-(Malus-×-domestica-Borkh.)-under-Western-Uttar-Pradesh-conditions-Saurabh-Kumar-Singh-10.pdf','',1,'The present investigation entitled “Standardization of the suitable propagation method in apple (Malus × domestica Borkh.) under western Uttar Pradesh conditions” was carried out at Horticultural Research Centre of Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel University of Agriculture & Technology, Meerut – 250110 during 2022-23. In this study, three propagation methods namely tongue grafting, cleft grafting, and side grafting were selected with three replications. The different parameters for these propagation methods were recorded to evaluate the best propagation method. Climate was the major challenge in this study because of sub-tropical conditions and apple being a temperate fruit crop it was more challenging to propagate them in sub-tropical conditions. In order to overcome this situation, we used low chilling varieties of apple viz., Anna, HRMN-99 and Dorsett Golden. When plants were tongue grafted it took the minimum days (12.51) to bud intake and showed the maximum results in scion diameter (1.51 cm), rootstock diameter (1.82 cm), number of leaves (37.24), leaf area (11.72) and survival percentage (91.67%) and maximum results were found in percent success at 30 days (82.22%), number of branches (8.50) and plant height (54.76 cm) when plants were cleft grafted.','Malus × domestica Borkh., Propagation, Tongue Grafting, Cleft Grafting, Side Grafting and Low chilling','In this study, some low chilling varieties of apple viz., Anna, Dorsett Golden and HRMN-99 were grafted on apple rootstocks with different grafting methods viz., Tongue grafting, Cleft grafting and Side grafting. Based on the findings of this study, it can be concluded that tongue grafting is the most suitable propagation method for Apple, followed by cleft grafting in western Uttar Pradesh conditions.','-','Vinayak, Satya Prakash, Arvind Kumar, S.K. Tripathi, Bijendra Singh, R.S. Sengar, Saurabh Kumar Singh and Amit Kumar (2023). Standardization of the suitable Propagation Method in Apple (Malus× domestica Borkh.) under Western Uttar Pradesh conditions. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 15(8): 47-51.'),(7098,'162','A Comparative Study of Phytoextraction Efficiency of Different Plants for Remediation of Heavy Metals from Soil','Ganpat Louhar, Mahesh Chand Meena, Abir Dey, Ananta Vashisth and Md Basit Raza','A-Comparative-Study-of-Phytoextraction-Efficiency-of-Different-Plants-for-Remediation-of-Heavy-Metals-from-Soil-Mahesh-Chand-Meena-11.pdf','',1,'The present research on plants efficacy for phytoextraction of metals was conducted at the Division of Soil Science and Agricultural Chemistry, Indian Agricultural Research Institute, New Delhi. This study envisages the efficacy of plants, information about heavy metal removal efficiency and their specificity. Correspondingly identify efficient suitable plants for remediation of heavy metals from polluted soils. A greenhouse pot experiment consisted of surface soil sample was collected from Godwa village, Udaipur district, Rajasthan and four crops i.e. mustard, sunflower, guinea grass, napier grass which were replicated five times in a completely randomised design (CRD). This soil mainly contaminated with lead and cadmium heavy metals. The crops were harvested at maximum vegetative growth stage and post-harvest soil was used for further chemical analysis. Lead content in crop shoot were 2.08, 1.26, 0.82 and 0.66 mg kg-1 and cadmium were 3.25, 2.42, 1.81 and 1.64 mg kg-1 in mustard, sunflower, napier grass and guinea grass, respectively. While in crop root total lead content were 0.85, 0.70, 0.58 and 0.49 mg kg-1 and cadmium were 0.70, 0.59, 0.50 and 0.41 mg kg-1 in mustard, sunflower, napier grass and guinea grass, respectively. The study revealed that mustard and sunflower are significantly superior overnapier grass and guinea grass. Therefore, both mustard and sunflower having ability to accumulate more amounts of lead and cadmium in its shoot and roots. ','CRD, Efficacy, Heavy metal, Phytoextraction','The present study conducted to find about the efficacy of plants, heavy metal removal efficiency and their specificity. Present investigation concluded that both mustard and sunflower having ability to accumulate more amounts of lead and cadmium in its shoot and roots. Out of four crops mustard and sunflower are significantly superior over napier grass and guinea grass having ability to accumulate more amount of cadmium and lead in shoots and roots tissues. Therefore, mustard and sunflower selected out of four crops based on results of phytoextraction of metals.','-','Ganpat Louhar, Mahesh Chand Meena, Abir Dey, Ananta Vashisth and Md Basit Raza (2023). A Comparative Study of Phytoextraction Efficiency of Different Plants for Remediation of Heavy Metals from Soil. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 15(8): 52-57.'),(7099,'163','Feeding of Azolla (A. microphylla) to Kadaknath Birds for their Growth and Survivability','Chandan Kumar, Subhash Chandra and A.K. Sharma ','Feeding-of-Azolla-(A.-microphylla)-to-Kadaknath-Birds-for-their-Growth-and-Survivability-Subhash-Chandra-49.pdf','',1,'Kadaknath is an uncommon black meat chicken (BMC) breed of India which is famous for its quality of meat and their health benefits. The main problems with this species in farmer\'s fields and intensive care facilities are high mortality, illness rates, and low development rates. The main aim of this study was to see the effect of supplementary feeding as well as the feed replacement effect of azolla (A. microphylla) on kadaknath birds for their growth and survivability. Azolla is a free floating water fern that floats in water and fixes atmospheric nitrogen in association with the nitrogen fixing blue green alga, Anabaena azollae. Azolla pinnata is most commonly used as a feed substitute for livestock as well as on poultry, piggery and fish. The main aim of this study is to find out the impact of feeding of improved variety of Azolla i.e A. microphylla feeding to kadaknath birds (1 month old). Fresh Azolla microphylla ponds (3’× 6’) size was used for experimental purpose. 600 kadaknath chicks (4 weeks old) of same age, weight was selected and distributed randomly into 3 groups of 200 birds each, In T1 (control) kadaknath birds were fed normal feed, in T2 group normal diets along with @ 5% extra supplementary feed) on DM basis were fed, and in T3 group 5 % replacement of normal feeds with fresh Azolla microphylla (DM basis) were given. The growth rate, mortality rate was recorded periodically for all the three groups of the experiments. The data on growth rate, mortality rate showed significant changes in Azolla fed kadaknath birds (T2) as compared to control groups (T1). The main challenge of this study was availability of the birds as per requirement of the study and their maintenance during experimental periods. This study not only save the money of the kadaknath growers but also helps them to maintain their Kadaknath stock healthy which will add increase the quality of meat and eggs.','Kadaknath birds, black meat chicken, Azolla microphylla, Growth, Rate, Mortality','The unorganised poultry sector which contributes around 20% of total poultry population, Kadaknath is one of them reared by tribal as well as selected poultry growers. The growth of poultry industry was limited during the last two fiscal years because of the pandemic especially organised sector but unorganised sector shown less impact of lockdown. However, due to high price of maize and soy meal the cost of production is more, hence kadaknath growers started searching alternate source of feed in which Azolla microphylla solve their problems. The palatability, digestibility and their potential to prevent birds from disease further improved their demand. ','-','Chandan Kumar, Subhash Chandra and A.K. Sharma (2023). Feeding of Azolla (A. microphylla) to Kadaknath Birds for their Growth and Survivability. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 15(5a): 300-304.'),(7100,'163','Effect of Date of Transplanting and Nitrogen Levels on Incidence of Major Insect-Pests of Rice','N.B. Pawar, H.C. Patel, N.B. Patel and C.J. Patel','Effect-of-Date-of-Transplanting-and-Nitrogen-Levels-on-Incidence-of-Major-Insect-Pests-of-Rice-NB-PAWAR-50.pdf','',1,'A field experiment was carried out to evaluate the effect of date of transplanting and nitrogen levels on incidence of major insect-pests of rice during kharif, 2017 to 2019. In order to achieve an effective and sustainable control of the rice pest, a management strategy integrating the use of resistant cultivar, appropriate planting date, and appropriate nitrogen levels must be developed. Therefore, the present study is undertaken on rice variety GR – 11 to study the influence of two main cultural practices viz., date of transplanting and nitrogen fertilizer on the insect-pest incidence and severity. The rice seedlings transplanted on 2nd and 4th week of July with application of nitrogen at 80 kg N/ ha and 100 kg N/ ha recorded minimum insect-pests incidence as compared to rice seedlings transplanted during 2nd week of August and application of nitrogenous fertilizer at 120 kg/ ha. The rice seedlings transplanted in the second and fourth weeks, as well as the plots fertilized with 100 kg N/ha and 80 kg N/ha, produced the highest grain as well straw yield. ','Rice, nitrogen level. transplanting date, hoppers, dead heart, leaf folder ','Rice seedlings transplanted on 2nd and 4th week of July with application of nitrogen at 80 kg N/ha and 100 kg N/ha recorded minimum insect-pests incidence as compared to rice seedlings transplanted during 2nd week of August and application of nitrogenous fertilizer at 120 kg/ ha. The rice seedlings transplanted in the second and fourth weeks, as well as the plots fertilized with 100 kg N/ha and 80 kg N/ha, produced the highest yields of grain and straw. However, the interaction effect between date of transplanting and nitrogen levels on insect-pests incidence as well as yield of grain and straw were non-significant.','-','N.B. Pawar, H.C. Patel, N.B. Patel and C.J. Patel (2023). Effect of Date of Transplanting and Nitrogen Levels on Incidence of Major Insect-Pests of Rice. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 15(5a): 305-311.'),(7101,'162','Influence of Clonal Rootstocks on Major Morphological Characteristics of Some Exotic Apple Cultivars in Northern Himalayas of Kashmir Valley','Asim Bashir, Nazir Ahmad Ganai, Shahid Qayoom and Mir Wasim Yousuf','Influence-of-Clonal-Rootstocks-on-Major-Morphological-Characteristics-of-Some-Exotic-Apple-Cultivars-in-Northern-Himalayas-of-Kashmir-Valley-Rahul-R.-Rodge-12.pdf','',1,'The present research was conducted at Regional Research Station faculty of agriculture Sher-e- Kashmir University of Agriculture Sciences and Technology of Kashmir, Shalimar, Srinagar, Jammu & Kashmir. The present investigation was carried out with the objective of evaluation of different rootstocks of apple for graft-take success and other vegetative characteristics of exotic cultivars of apple in Kashmir conditions. The study consisted of three scion cultivars (Red Chief, Red Velox, Gala Mast) cleft grafted on six different rootstocks (M-9, MM-106, MM-111, M-27, P-22 and seedling). The experiment was laid in Randomized Complete Block Design (RCBD) with three replications. Rootstocks play a vital role in providing better adaptation of scion varieties to various soil and growing conditions, and also improve their growth, precocity, productivity and quality. Most of the existing apple orchards in the union territory of Jammu and Kashmir are on seedling rootstocks and have long juvenile period taking years to come into bearing. In Kashmir valley, Delicious group of apple cultivars are predominant and covers almost entire apple plantation. They are characterized by excessive vigour, susceptible to insect pests and diseases and acute biennial bearing tendency. Further, most of Delicious cultivars have similar maturity duration causing glut in market. To get rid of such emblematic situation clonal rootstocks complimented with new exotic cultivars offer a viable solution to this problem. Clonal rootstocks are uniform in growth characteristics and impart desirable characters (dwarfing and precocity) Therefore, this study was initiated to assess the effect of selected rootstocks on graft success, vegetative growth and other characteristics of selected apple cultivars. Data on graft success and other parameters were collected and analyzed using software OP stat. Results revealed that scion rootstock combination significantly (P<0.05) influenced graft success and other vegetative parameters of exotic cultivars of apple. The maximum graft-take success (95. 30%) was recorded in Gala Mast grafted on MM-106 and minimum (84.53%) in Red Chief on seedling. Gala Mast grafted on seedling rootstock registered maximum plant height (110.18cm) and maximum number of leaves/plant (38.97). Least plant height and number of leaves/plant was recorded in Red Chief grafted on M-27 (73.46cm) and (20.77) respectively. The results of this study demonstrated that scion-stock combination had a considerable effect on graft success and other vegetative characteristics of exotic cultivars of apple.','Apple, Rootstock, Cleft Grafting, Vegetative growth, Cultivar','From the perspective of results procured in the present investigation, it can be concluded that morphological parameters viz., graft success, number of leaves & plant height were significantly influenced by the characteristics of both rootstock & scion cultivar, although it was also observed that the rootstock influence was more pronounced than the scion cultivar. Though these are preliminary observations in the initial years of growth which needs to be examined further during subsequent years through comprehensive trials on these graft combinations including studies on fruiting and yield behavior of scion cultivars to draw felicitous conclusions.','-','Asim Bashir, Nazir Ahmad Ganai, Shahid Qayoom and Mir Wasim Yousuf (2023). Influence of Clonal Rootstocks on Major Morphological Characteristics of Some Exotic Apple Cultivars in Northern Himalayas of Kashmir Valley. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 15(8): 58-64.'),(7102,'162','Study on Combining Ability of Organo-leptic Traits in Rice (Oryza sativa L.) ','M. Hemalatha, S. Geetha, R. Saraswathi, M. Raveendran and G. Hemalatha','Study-on-Combining-Ability-of-Organo-leptic-Traits-in-Rice-(Oryza-sativa-L.)--S-Geetha-13.pdf','',1,'Recent changes in the lifestyle of people have made a huge impact in the requirement for quality products both in terms of appearance and nutritional value. Although rice production reached self-sufficiency in most of the countries, the quality aspects of rice grains have taken a back seat which is gaining importance in recent time. Plant breeders have made quality as their second most important objective next to yield to suffice the growing population. The current study aims to examine the general combining ability of nine rice genotypes and the specific combining ability of every feasible cross for grain yield and organo-leptic traits in 20 F1s produced via Line x Tester mating design to identify good parents and their specific hybrid combinations outperforming in terms of grain yield and quality. The estimates of SCA variance were revealed greater than GCA variance for all the characters except days to per cent flowering, L/B ratio, kernel length after cooking and kernel breadth after cooking, indicating the preponderance of non-additive gene action for all other traits. Among the parents, Pusa Basmati 1121, Pusa Basmati 1, RNR 15048 and Improved White Ponni were adjudged as the best general combiners for most of the organo-leptic traits and yield related traits. The cross combinations, viz., Pusa Basmati 1121 × Palawan and Pusa Basmati 1121 × TRY 3 were the ideal specific combiners for single plant yield and most of the organo-leptic traits. Out of all the hybrids, these two hybrids showed high kernel elongation without increase in kernel girth after cooking, intermediate amylose content, medium alkali spreading value and soft gel consistency along with adequate amount of yielding ability. Hence, the aforesaid cross combinations may be used in the upcoming breeding programmes to create a higher heterosis for yield and organo-leptic traits and this study may focus on the importance of quality breeding in rice.','Rice, Combining ability, organo-leptic traits, Line x Tester, GCA, SCA, Recombination Breeding','To summarize we can see that the indica and japonica (Palawan and Azucena) genotypes used in the present study are having positive and negative sides in different aspects. The indica genotypes showed both good yielding capacity and organo-leptic properties, while the japonica genotypes showed only good plant type giving out yield but poor organo-leptic traits. The parents, Pusa Basmati 1121 and Pusa Basmati 1 gave out good performance with respect to grain dimensional properties, while the genotypes of japonica type (Palawan and Azucena) along with Improved White Ponni showed good plant types with desirable yielding ability. The cross combination, Pusa Basmati 1121 × Palawan showed good per se performance and sca effects for most of the studied yield attributing traits and the organo-leptic traits. The most important attribute of a premium marketable rice is that it must show good kernel elongation but with decreased breadthwise expansion while cooking, intermediate amylose content, medium alkali spreading value and soft gel consistency. This was providently made by the hybrids, Pusa Basmati 1121 × TRY 3 and Pusa Basmati 1121 × Palawan which can be forwarded to get still more superior recombinants with good yielding as well as good grain dimensional properties fetching premium price in the global rice market.','-','M. Hemalatha, S. Geetha, R. Saraswathi, M. Raveendran and G. Hemalatha (2023). Study on Combining Ability of Organo-leptic Traits in Rice (Oryza sativa L.). Biological Forum – An International Journal, 15(8): 65-76.'),(7103,'163','Redefining IMSCS 2013 for seed standard ODV in Rice','V. Swarnalatha, K. Prabhavathi, K. Parimala and T. Pradeep','Redefining-IMSCS-2013-for-seed-standard-ODV-in-Rice-V-Swarnalatha-51.pdf','',1,'Seed certification is a legally recognised framework for quality control, seed multiplication, and production because high-quality seeds are the foundation of the agricultural industry, ensuring national economy and food security. The quality seed must adhere to Indian Minimum Seed Certification Standards (IMSCS), but on a global scale, seed quality assurance systems for seed export are governed by International Seed Testing Association and Organization for Economic Cooperation and Development (OECD) standards (ISTA). The focus of this study has been on whether the field criteria defined in the Indian Minimum Seed Certification criteria (IMSCS, 2013) continue to hold good in today\'s era of mechanization used in the field to avoid genetic contamination in paddy. The Foundation and Certified seed samples (Three samples of three different varieties) from Telangana state seed corporation and Seed certification agency were used for testing ODVs in paddy. The samples were thoroughly examined for the existence of ODV while maintaining reference samples in hand. From the mean results of 3 years of experimentation, it was observed that over all mean value of 10.63 ODV/ kg seed were observed which is on par with the recommendations given by IMSCS 2013 for foundation seeds and 31.33 ODV /kg seed over all mean value was recorded which is higher than recommended 20 ODV/kg seed as by IMSCS2013 in case of Certified Seed of fine (small), medium and coarse (long) varieties of paddy. To boost production and productivity while mitigating the negative effects of climate change, a consistent as well as timely delivery of high-quality seed for all crops and varieties at reasonable costs at the local level is required.','Rice, Quality Seed, ODV, IMSC, Seed Certification, and quality parameters','Single seed lot for paddy seeds should not be more than 200 quintals (≤1 to ≥200q). Seed from fields that met certification criteria at the field stage must be transported to the processing facility as soon as feasible after harvesting. The Certification Agency, on the other hand, is authorized to employ a screen with a smaller aperture size than required. With proper justifications for screen aperture lowering as a result, no seed smaller than the bottom screen utilized in the final processed seed may exceed 5.0% (by weight). Keeping this type of alternatives at hand and with increasing change to the adoption of seed-to-seed mechanization, there is an out most necessary for a revision of ODV standards in the case of certified seed class, as observed ODVs (31.33/kg. of seed) were much more than ODV seed standards as per IMSCS, 2013 (20 no./kg).\r\nHowever, in the case of foundation seed, there is no need to redefine ODV seed standards, as observed ODVs (10.63 no./kg.) were within the permissible limits as per IMSCS, 2013 (10 no./kg). Hence, the seed standards for the maximum permissible limit of ODVs can be maintained at the current level of 10/kg seed in the foundation seed class.\r\n','-','V. Swarnalatha, K. Prabhavathi, K. Parimala and T. Pradeep (2023). Redefining IMSCS 2013 for seed standard ODV in Rice. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 15(5a): 312-316.'),(7104,'163','Study the Abiotic Factors Affecting Amplitude Fluctuation in the Population Dynamics of Okra Shoot and Fruit Borer (Earias vittella) on Okra in Uttar Pradesh','Heenashree Mansion, Umesh Chandra, Amit Kumar and Shubham Singh ','Study-the-Abiotic-Factors-Affecting-Amplitude-Fluctuation-in-the-Population-Dynamics-of-Okra-Shoot-and-Fruit-Borer-(Earias-vittella)-on-Okra-in-Uttar-Pradesh-Heenashree-Mansion-52.pdf','',1,'The present investigation was studied in Zaid season 2022 at student’s instructional farm, A.N.D. University of agriculture and Technology, Kumarganj, Ayodhya (U.P.). In the course of research, the Incidence that the population of shoot and fruit borer initiated after sowing till harvesting. The highest incidence of shoot borer was observed on Okra crop at 16th SW (13.40 %) and lowest 20th SW (0.36 %). The highest incidence of Fruit borer 18th SW (24.4 %) and lowest 22nd SMW (1.1 %). Correlation observed between the shoot borer population and abiotic parameters showed non-significant positive correlation with minimum and maximum temperature was observed non-significant negative correlation, while relative humidity showed significant negative correlation and rainfall had non- significant negative correlation. Correlation observed between the fruit borer population and abiotic parameters showed non-significant positive correlation with minimum and maximum temperature, while relative humidity showed non-significant negative correlation and rainfall had significant positive correlation. This study provides basic knowledge about the incidence and damage caused by this pest, and its behavior towards various abiotic factors.','Earias vittella, Population, Correlation, abiotic factors','The shoot borer population was first time observed at 12th SW larva bores into tender terminal shoots in the vegetative stage and flower buds, flower and young fruits in the fruit formation stage. The shoot borer population (1.30%) was noticed at 12th SW at the minimum temperature of 18.5°, maximum temperature of 35.3, relative humidity and rainfall beat the minimum temperature of 22.04°, maximum temperature of 40.07°, relative humidity 66.5 per cent and rainfall 0 mm. The minimum infestation of 0.36 per cent damaged shoot/plant observed in 20th SW. \r\nThe fruit borer population was started from 15th SW at the minimum temperature of 19.6°, maximum temperature of 39.2°, relative humidity 65.7 and rainfall 0 and mean population (4.6). Its maximum level (24.4%) at temperature ranged from 24-37°, relative humidity 77.1 per cent and rainfall 19.2. its minimum level of infestation (1.1%) at temperature range from 26.07-38.71°, relative humidity 75.71 per cent and rainfall 2.0 mm.\r\n','-','Heenashree Mansion, Umesh Chandra, Amit Kumar and Shubham Singh (2023). Study the Abiotic Factors Affecting Amplitude Fluctuation in the Population Dynamics of Okra Shoot and Fruit Borer (Earias vittella) on Okra in Uttar Pradesh. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 15(5a): 317-319.'),(7105,'162','Assessment of Mungbean Germplasm through Morphological Characterization using DUS Criteria','Sunny Thakur and Stuti Sharma','Assessment-of-Mungbean-Germplasm-through-Morphological-Characterization-using-DUS-Criteria-Sunny-Thakur-14.pdf','',1,'The goal of the research was to use DUS descriptors to describe 303 green gram germplasm lines. Twenty-one DUS descriptors, including anthocyanin colour at the cotyledonary stage, plant, stem, leaf, flower, pod, and seed traits, were used for evaluation. The fact that 18 out of the 21 descriptors showed variation, demonstrates the usefulness of these descriptors in identifying genotypes and, more importantly, suggests that there is a significant amount of genetic differentiation that can be exploited for the improvement of individual genotypes as well as for protection and identification. The time of flowering, plant growth habits, petiole colour, pod size, seed colour, and seed size are six of the morphological DUS traits that were found to indicate trimorphic variation; eleven characters, such as the anthocyanin coloration of cotyledons, plant habits, stem colour, leaf colour, leaf vein colour, flower colour, pod colour of premature pods, pod position, pod curvature, seed lustre, and seed shape, clearly indicates dimorphic categorization. The genotype diversity for key plant characteristics including plant growth habit and determinate types suggests the use of novel germplasm for improvement utilising these characteristics. The registration with PPV & FRA and seed purity testing may be done using the DUS descriptor data produced with distinctive profiles of the improved genotypes.','Characterization, DUS, Diversity, Germplasm, Mungbean, Morphology','The findings of the morphological characterisation carried out in accordance with the DUS recommendations assisted in the accurate genotype categorization. Based on the results of this research, it can be said that the germplasm has a significant degree of variety for features including flowering time, plant growth habit, petiole colour, pod size, seed lustre, seed colour, and seed size. Marketable consumer features include seed colour, seed size, and seed shape. After determining the stability and heritability of the features, genotypes with this morphology may be chosen as donors in a crossing procedure.','-','Sunny Thakur and Stuti Sharma (2023). Assessment of Mungbean Germplasm through Morphological Characterization using DUS Criteria. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 15(8): 77-89.'),(7106,'153','An Energy efficient Approach of Developing Hot Water Supply System Suitable for a Residential Building Located in Peri Urban Area of Agartala City','Somdeep Chakraborty, Pratiksha Ghosh, Kaberi Majumdar, Manish Paland Pankaj Kumar Roy ','An Energy efficient Approach of Developing Hot Water Supply System Suitable for a Residential Building Located in Peri Urban Area of Agartala City-Kaberi Majumdar-10.pdf','',1,'Domestic water is an important component of water demand and during the winter season a good portion of it is being used as hot-water everywhere in the world. To provide a sustainable solution to the domestic hot water supply it is imperative to utilize the naturally available resources as much as possible to minimize the generation of greenhouse gas and also to reduce the carbon foot print. Under favorable condition, the requirement of domestic water can be partially or totally fulfilled by rainwater harvesting of a dwelling or its surroundings. A different system of rain water harvesting especially in rural and peri-urban areas where rainfall is distributed throughout the year is likely to be effective in providing a sustainable solution in many ways. Traditional process of hot water production consumes enough energy coming out of fossil fuel, including coal, gas, and diesel, etc. which does not ensure a sustainable future. In the tropical zones the solar energy may be an effective alternative to this. The paper is an attempt to understand the feasibility of providing hot-water to the residents of a typical apartment house situated in a peri-urban area of the city of Agartala utilizing the solar energy and the rain water collected from a roof for satisfying the daily need of the hot water requirement of domestic purpose. In the present scenario the availability of usable water is very less. Moreover, the production of carbon dioxide and other greenhouse gasses is increasing day by day. In view of the above a different system of rain water harvesting is implemented to reduce the water crisis. For reduction of energy consumption and thereby reducing the uses of greenhouse gasses solar water heating technique has been used.','Rain water, RWH, Hot-water demand, solar energy, green building','This paper has presented a multi-objective model for Hot-water-supply system suitable for domestic usage. The system is easy to install &likely to provide a sustainable solution. The presented model proposes available area for rainwater harvesting and the installation of storage devices for using this water when it is required for the residential development.\r\nThe model will satisfy the domestic demands as well as it will be considered as objective function for the minimization of the total annual cost associated to the fresh water and also the electrical energy consumption.\r\n','-','Somdeep Chakraborty, Pratiksha Ghosh, Kaberi Majumdar, Manish Paland Pankaj Kumar Roy (2023). An Energy efficient Approach of Developing Hot Water Supply System Suitable for a Residential Building Located in Peri Urban Area of Agartala City. International Journal on Emerging Technologies, 14(1): 59–65.'),(7107,'153','A novel Two-Port MIMO Antenna with Enhanced Isolation and Diversity Parameters for Wireless Applications','Satish Kumar Kannale and N M Biradar','A novel Two-Port MIMO Antenna with Enhanced Isolation and Diversity Parameters for Wireless Applications-Dr. Prashant Sangulagi-11.pdf','',1,'Wireless-enabled gadgets pack a lot of functionality into a small package, which necessitates much bandwidth for speedier data transfer. This paper discusses the characteristics of two-element multiple-input and multiple output (MIMO) antenna systems operating in ultra-wideband (UWB). The close proximity of the antenna components results in high mutual coupling. The unique chain-structured parasitic element is introduced on the radiator to enhance isolation and acts as a decoupling structure. The physical dimension o of the substrate is 21.5×34×1.6 mm3. The addition of a decoupling structure enhances isolation by more than 15 dB for the working frequency range of 4.5-13 GHz. Additionally, the diversity characteristics of MIMO are examined, (Envelope Correlation Coefficient (ECC)<-0.05 dB, Mean Effective Gain (MEG)<-3dB, Total Active reflection coefficient (TARC) <-10 dB ratio, and CCL< 0.4 bps/Hz outcome confirming that the suggested MIMO architecture is well-suited for applications involving wireless communication.','MIMO, isolation, chain-structured parasitic element, ECC, DG, CCL','This paper describes a two-port MIMO antenna with a neutralization line as a decoupling structure that operates in the UWB band. The unique chain-structured parasitic element form decoupling structure that links both antenna elements improves isolation between the antenna elements. The decoupling structure in the projected design creates an identical current having out of phase compared to the exciting antenna. Therefore it cancels the mutual coupling between antennas. The projected antenna shows stable radiation properties. Furthermore, the MIMO diversity parameters results verify that the MIMO antenna is suitable for the wireless communication system.','-','Satish Kumar Kannale and N. M. Biradar (2023). A novel Two-Port MIMO Antenna with Enhanced Isolation and Diversity Parameters for Wireless Applications. International Journal on Emerging Technologies, 14(1): 66–70.'),(7108,'162','Genetics of Physiological and Yield Traits of Stay Green in Sorghum to Drought Stress in Rabi','Priyanka S., Girish G., Lokesha R., Tembhurne B. V., Amaregouda Patil and Ayyanagouda Patil ','Genetics-of-Physiological-and-Yield-Traits-of-Stay-Green-in-Sorghum-to-Drought-Stress-in-Rabi-Priyanka-S-15.pdf','',1,'Sorghum is a major staple food crop for the people in semi-arid areas of Asia. Post-flowering drought is a global constraint of sorghum production with this the present study is to study the genetics of stay green and yield traits to the drought stress tolerance of the stay green introgressed lines. The significance of scaling test except for traits days to flowering for the traits studied indicates that the simple additive - dominance model or simply additive model is not adequate to explain the gene effects of stay green and grain yield component traits in sorghum. This result shows that traits presence of non-allelic interaction controlling these traits. With respect to stay-green, comparison between generation means revealed non-additive gene action for trait inheritance of stay green traits. The predominance of mean effect, dominance and dominance × dominance gene effects indicating dominant gene action play major role controlling the SPADB, SPADM, total number of green leaves at booting and maturity, green leaf area at booting and maturity in both crosses studied. With respect to gene effects mean followed by dominance and additive × dominance gene effect is significant and predominance in controlling the trait. However, the dominance and additive × dominance gene effect are in negative direction in both the crosses. The non-allelic gene action shows duplicate gene interaction. Duplicate epistasis signifies dispersion of alleles at the interacting loci and will decrease variation in S2 or F2 and subsequent generations and will delay the pace of progress through selection.','Drought Stress, Stay Green and Yield traits','The dominant gene action is significant and predominant for canopy temperature and leaf temperature in both crosses and also the F1 mean of both the crosses on par with the better parents (K260 and K359w) indicate dominant genes play role in trait expression. Photosynthetic rate at booting and maturity the mean of F1 generation for the trait on par with the better parental means of K260 and K359w indicating presence of dominant gene action in the both the crosses GS-23×K260 and GS-23 × K359w. For PRB, apart from mean effect, dominance and additive × dominance gene effects are significantly predominant among all the gene effects. With respect to grain yield component traits scaling test revealed presence of epistasis for all the traits except days to 50% flowering. Days to booting all the gene effects were significant in cross 1 (GS-23 × K260). With respect to gene effects additive, dominance, additive×dominance and dominance×dominance effects were significant indicate their predominant role in controlling the trait. Days to maturity, duplicate epistasis involved in the controlling of the trait in the cross GS-23 × K260 and complementary epistasis involved in the controlling of the trait in other cross GS-23 × K359w. Plant height, panicle length and panicle width, the mean of F1, BC1 and BC2 generation is more inclined toward the better parents indicating the trait is under control of dominance gene action. Further, the dominance and dominance×dominance gene actions are predominant in trait expression and they are under duplicate epistasis. Grain yield per plant with respect to gene effects, except additive gene effect, all other gene effects are significant in first cross (GS-23 × K260) and mean effect followed by dominance and dominance × dominance gene effects are predominant in controlling the trait. Whereas in second cross additive and additive × dominance gene interaction is non-significant (GS-23 × K359w) and mean effect followed by dominance and additive × additive gene effects are predominant in controlling the trait. The additive × dominance is significant and the value is near to the mean indicating the major involvement of additive × dominance gene effect in trait expression of fodder yield per plant. Thousand seed weight and grain number per panicle all the gene effects are significant with predominance of dominance and dominance × dominance gene effect with opposite sign values indicating duplicate epistasis involved in trait expression. For harvest index per panicle mean and all gene effects are significant dominance mean and additive × dominance are predominant in trait expression. Whereas in the second cross (GS-23 × K359w), dominance, mean and dominance × dominance is predominant in trait expression.\r\nLeaf colour was controlled by two dominant independent genes viz., Dg1 and Dg2. Whereas stay green trait was controlled by two independent dominant genes STG3A and STG3B. Stay green inheritance studies in F1, F2 and F3 breeding behavior showed that the dominant gene action plays major role in controlling the stay green trait in both the crosses and stay green trait is dominant across generations in nature of expressing at maturity level too, thus giving the sorghum crop to with stand physiological stress under drought conditions by staying green.\r\n','-','Priyanka S., Girish G., Lokesha R., Tembhurne B. V., Amaregouda Patil and Ayyanagouda Patil (2023). Genetics of Physiological and Yield Traits of Stay Green in Sorghum to Drought Stress in Rabi. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 15(8): 90-105.'),(7109,'146','Impact of Integrated Farming Systems on Agricultural Income in \r\nBhadrak District, Odisha\r\n','Subrat Pattanaik, Khitish Sarangi, Sarbanarayan Mishra, Abhiram Dash and Arati Priyadarshini ','Impact-of-Integrated-Farming-Systems-on-Agricultural-Income-in-Bhadrak-District,-Odisha-Subrat-Pattanaik-240.pdf','',1,'A study was conducted in core blocks (Chandbali, Dhamnagar and Dhusuri) of Bhadrak district of Odisha to evaluate the impact of integrated farming systems (IFS) on agricultural income. The objective of this study was to identify the most practiced IFS, evaluate the effectiveness of IFS and the problems and prospects of IFS farmers of Bhadrak district of Odisha. The primary data was collected by interacting with 110 farmers randomly using a well structured and pretested interview schedule. The percentage method was used for the farmers practicing various farming system. Economic viability was assessed through a comparative analysis of income generation where analytical tools such as benefit cost ratio, relative economic efficiency and marginal benefit cost ratio was used. Through this study, the challenges faced by farmers in adopting and implementing IFS was identified and ranked with the help of Garrett’s Ranking Technique. Out of the 6 identified IFS combinations, Crop - Dairy (FS-I) was highly practiced with 30 per cent of respondents involved and the least practiced was Crop - Dairy - Fishery - Mushroom - Horticulture (FS-VI) with 2.73 per cent of respondents involved and was more profitable than other farming systems having BCR of 3.60 and relative economic efficiency of 198.33 per cent. The Farming System- VI (Crop - Dairy - Fishery - Mushroom - Horticulture) in one acre of land is significantly more profitable with marginal benefit cost ratio of 11.59 compared to Non-IFS farmers. Issues faced by the farmers such as “High cost of inputs to take up different farm enterprises”, and “Scarcity and high cost of labour” was ranked I and II respectively. Ultimately, this research aims to enhance agricultural income, improve livelihoods, and foster sustainable rural development in Bhadrak district of Odisha and will contribute to policy and institutional support mechanisms required to promote and scale up IFS practices.','IFS, Benefit cost ratio (BCR), Relative economic efficiency (REE), Marginal benefit cost ratio (MBCR)','The purpose of this study was to analyze the most practiced Integrated Farming Systems in Bhadrak district of Odisha. Efforts were made to systematically collate the data and analyze the share of each component in different farming systems. Preliminary findings indicate that IFS implementation in the coastal district of Odisha has demonstrated major economic outcomes from various farming systems. Out of numerous farming systems practiced only six (FS-I, FS-II, FS-III, FS-IV, FS-V and FS-VI) were selected which were more sustainable and economically viable farming systems, capable of addressing the challenges posed by climate change, resource limitations, and market dynamics in Odisha conditions. The study suggests that the adoption of IFS (FS-IV, FS-III and FS-VI) can have a significant increase in farm income and can promote resilience in the face of disasters and climate change. Major constraints faced by IFS respondents over non IFS farmers were “High cost of inputs to take up different farm enterprises”, “Scarcity and high cost of labour” and “Management of subsidiary enterprises like dairy, sheep and goat units”. Therefore, there is a need for policymakers to promote IFS and provide the necessary support to farmers to adopt this sustainable and resilient agricultural approach.','-','Subrat Pattanaik, Khitish Sarangi, Sarbanarayan Mishra, Abhiram Dash and Arati Priyadarshini (2022). Impact of Integrated Farming Systems on Agricultural Income in Bhadrak District, Odisha. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 14(4a): 1350-1354.'),(7110,'146','Effect of Fertilizer Doses on Phenological Parameters of Grafted Tomato Plants','Mahendra Prasad Das, Dipika Sahoo, Naresh Ponnam, G.C. Acharya, Pradyumna Tripathy, G.S. Sahu, G. Sangeetha, Bandita Jena, Harapriya Sethy and Anil Kumar Adamala ','Effect-of-Fertilizer-Doses-on-Phenological-Parameters-of-Grafted-Tomato-Plants-Mahendra-Prasad-Das-241.pdf','',1,'The experiment was conducted at Central Horticultural Experiment Station, ICAR- IIHR, Aiginia, Bhubaneswar, Odisha, India during kharif seasons of 2018 in collaboration with Odisha University of Agriculture and Technology, Bhubaneswar to study the plant height, number of branches per plant and days taken to 50 % flowering among grafted root stock and Arka Rakshak non-grafted tomato plant. As there is little information’s available regarding the effect of root stock with different recommended fertilizer doses with respect to phenological parameters of the grafted tomato plants so, the experiment was conducted with cultivated Utkal Anushree and wild species Solanum torvum of brinjal and Arka Rakshak tomato hybrid as both scion and non-grafted control plant with 12 treatment combination (different RDFs and absolute control) following statistical design FRBD with three replications in field condition to find out better root stock with respect to vegetative and flowering parameter. The grafted Solanum torvum root stock recorded highest plant height (91.92 cm) and number of branches per plant (16.86) than the non-grafted Arka Rakshak tomato hybrids. Whereas non-grafted Arka Rakshak took lowest number of days (33.20 days) to 50 % flowering while the grafted root stocks of Solanum torvum (37.50 days) and Utkal Anushree (38.53 days) took highest number of days to 50 % flowering. Solanum torvum and Utkal Anushree root stock performed better at 75 % RDF as compared to 100 % RDFs, there was very little difference in plant height, number of branches and days taken to 50% flowering in comparison between 100 % and 75 % RDFs.','Grafting, Rootstock, Scion, Solanum torvum, RDF, Phenological parameters','The grafted Solanum torvum and Utkal Anushree root stock recorded highest plant height and number of branches per plant than the non-grafted Arka Rakshak tomato hybrids. Among recommended fertiliser doses 100 % RDF performed highest plant height and was at par with 75% RDF. Whereas, non-grafted Arka Rakshak took lowest days (33.20 days) to 50% flowering while the grafted root stocks of Solanum torvum (37.50 days) and Utkal Anushree (38.53 days) took highest number of days for 50 % flowering. However, the non-fertilized plants may experience stress due to the absence of nutrients in vegetative growth stage and this stress might have helped them to enter reproductive growth phase leading to earlier flowering. Among Solanum torvum and Utkal Anushree root stocks Solanum torvum is earlier in flowering than Utkal Anushree root stocks when grafted with Arka Rakshak tomato. Solanum torvum and Utkal Anushree root stocks performed better at 75 % RDF compared to 100 % RDFs., there was very little difference in plant height, number of branches and days taken to reach 50% flowering between 100 % and 75 % RDFs. This led to the conclusion that Solanum torvum with 75 % can be recommended for commercial cultivation, but its yield potential should be assessed. However, since Solanum torvum is a wild rootstock and availability of seeds may be a problem, in that case, Utkal Anushree, released by OUAT, can be recommended with 75% RDF for better vegetative growth of tomatoes.','-','Mahendra Prasad Das, Dipika Sahoo, Naresh Ponnam, G.C. Acharya, Pradyumna Tripathy, G.S. Sahu, G. Sangeetha, Bandita Jena, Harapriya Sethy and Anil Kumar Adamala (2022). Effect of Fertilizer Doses on Phenological Parameters of Grafted Tomato Plants. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 14(4): 1355-1359.'),(7111,'162','Socio-Economic Status of Farmers in Telangana – A Cross Sectional Survey','Amitha C.D. and Karthikeyan C. ','Socio-Economic-Status-of-Farmers-in-Telangana–A-Cross-Sectional-Survey-Amitha-CD-16.pdf','',1,'The proper design and effective implementation of government development programmes depend on a careful examination of the socioeconomic circumstances of farmers. The study was conducted in Telangana during 2022-23 to investigate the socioeconomic position of farmers. Employing a cross sectional survey design, the primary data was collected through structured interview questionnaire using a sample size of 300 respondents from all over the state of Telangana. Results of the study showed that majority of the farmers were maintaining nuclear family with less than five members. Most of the farmers belonged to marginal farmers’ categories who are involved in farming alongside casual labour. Majority of the farmers had low livestock possession, material possession and farm inventory. Farmers had secondary and intermediate school level and nearly half of the farmers belonged to backward caste category. Overall majority of the farmers belonged to middle class category followed by lower class category.','Socio economic status, dimensions, farmers, agriculture','An understanding of the socio-economic status of the farmers and its determinants will help in pilot assessment of the farmers conditions where real target group will be benefited from the development programmes. Majority of the farmers have secondary and intermediate school level of education belonging to OBC category. As majority of the respondents were marginal and small farmers, they were engaged in subsidiary occupation involving on farm, off farm and non- farm activities. The livelihood status involving the possession of assets in both farm and household was observed to be poor. Livestock possession was also low with only cattle catering to their needs. The above study summarizes the socio-economic position of a sample of farmers and knowledge of this can be utilized in planning better programmes improving their social and economic well-being. ','-','Amitha C.D. and Karthikeyan C. (2023). Socio-Economic Status of Farmers in Telangana – A Cross Sectional Survey. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 15(8): 106-110.'),(7112,'163','Development and Storage Study of Table Spread fortified with carotenoids extracted from Sweet Potato (Lpomoea batatas (L) Lam.) using Green Solvent extraction','Aarathy Bose and Suvartan G. Ranvir','Development-and-Storage-Study-of-Table-Spread-fortified-with-carotenoids-extracted-from-Sweet-Potato-(Lpomoea-batatas-(L)-Lam.)--using-Green-Solvent-extraction-Aarathy-Bose-53.pdf','',1,'In this study, carotenoids were extracted from sweet potatoes using ultra-sonication and sunflower oil as a green solvent, and the extracted carotenoids were fortified in a spread for the table. Since concentration of carotenoids are much lower in dairy based products, enriching it using suitable delivery system helps to uplift existing vitamin A deficiency in our country. Carotenoid rich emulsion delivery system was developed using Whey Protein Concentrate as emulsifier. Stability of emulsion was analyzed. Four formulations of table spread were tried with varying composition of milk fat and carotenoid rich emulsion, stabilizer, emulsifier and water viz., T0 – 75% butter, T1-72% butter, 3% carotenoid emulsion, T2 -69% butter, 6% carotenoid emulsion, T3 -66% butter, 9% carotenoid emulsion and T4 -63% butter, 12% carotenoid emulsion. The proximate composition of developed table spread was 36.25% moisture, 55.5% fat, 5.25% protein, 2% carbohydrates and 1% ash. Total carotenoid content and antioxidant activity in the formulated treatments were significantly (p<0.05) higher than control. The fortified table spread was stored at 37°C vis-à-vis 5°C and analyzed for physicochemical changes during storage for 75 days by 15 days of interval. During storage period, qualitative and bio-functional parameters like moisture content (%), titratable acidity (%), peroxide value(meq/kg oil), thiobarbituric acid value(OD) and Free fatty acids(%) were recorded at every 15 days interval. There was significant (p<0.05) increase in acidity, TBA, FFA and peroxide values were observed, whereas moisture content and sensory scores was found to be significantly (p<0.05) decreasing. The carotenoid enriched spread was qualitatively stable and indicated suitable shelf life. The table spread with 6% carotenoid rich emulsion (T2) was found to be the best among all the treatments. ','Table spread, Carotenoid, ultrasonication, green technique, shelf-life','The experiment was carried out with 4 treatments and 3 replications. Table spread was developed with different proportion of carotenoid rich emulsion. The prepared table spreads were stored for 75 days and storage study on qualitative and bio-functional properties were carried out in an interval of 15 days. Treatment T2 with 6% carotenoid rich emulsion was the best among all other treatments after proper sensory analysis.','-','Aarathy Bose and Suvartan G. Ranvir (2023). Development and Storage Study of Table Spread fortified with carotenoids extracted from Sweet Potato (Lpomoea batatas (L) Lam.) using Green Solvent extraction. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 15(5a): 320-325.'),(7113,'163','Study of Physico-chemical and Biological properties of different Water Sample of the Mehsana district, Gujarat, India','Shashikant D. Sutariya, Riki P. Tailor and Sejal S. Naik','Study-of-Physico-chemical-and-Biological-properties-of-different-Water-Sample-of-the-Mehsana-district,-Gujarat,-India-Shashikant-D-Sutariya-54.pdf','',1,'Most of the earth’s water sources get their water supplies through precipitation. During precipitation water passes over (runoff) and through the ground (infiltration), acquiring a wide variety of dissolved or suspended impurities that intensely alters its usefulness. Physical, Chemical and Bacteriological parameters of Well water quality of selected region of Mehsana District was examine that included quality parameters such as pH, temperature, total hardness, calcium, magnesium, chloride, sulphate, isolation of bacteria and biochemical tests. The well water sample collected from 50 different sampling sites using a composites sampling method and the important physico chemical and bacteriological parameters were determined and compared with the standard values provided by the World Health Organization to evaluate the quality of water. The present research work contribute the different water samples testing and determine their different physical and chemical properties for the benefit of human society.','Water samples, Physical, Chemical and Bacteriological parameters','The study reveals that many water quality parameters were found to be beyond the permissible limit of the WHO. The results executing results below permissible limit could help state the water quality to be accurate for drinking and household purpose. The result shows average concentration of the corresponding ions and mostly below the permissible values.\r\nAmount of minerals such as a Ca, Mg, chloride, sulphate, total hardness was present within the range of standard permissible value given by WHO. But well water from some rural region of some Mehsana district more amount of sulphate and total hardness of these minerals than other rural region. It was found that most of the water sample had higher values of TDS than the permissible values, which indicate water pollution via solid disposable waste around the well region.\r\nThe presence of E. coli in very few samples also draw attention of cause of diarrhoea to the people directly drinking well water, (sample no. 3 and 26).\r\n','-','Shashikant D. Sutariya, Riki P. Tailor and Sejal S. Naik (2023). Study of Physico-chemical and Biological properties of different Water Sample of the Mehsana district, Gujarat, India. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 15(5a): 326-330.'),(7114,'163','An Appraisal of Toxocarosis in Calves in India through a Meta-analysis of Prevalence Studies','Shirale S.Y. and Bhangale G.N.','An-Appraisal-of-Toxocarosis-in-Calves-in-India-through-a-Meta-analysis-of-Prevalence-Studies-Gajendra-N-Bhangale-55.pdf','',1,'Toxocarosis in buffalo calves is a very important diseases which is causing a significant impact on the dairy enterprises at it affects the most vulnerable stage of the life a dairy animal. The current meta-analysis was conducted to appraise the distribution of toxocarosis in cattle and buffalo calves of India. A systematic search for the prevalence data of cow and buffalo calves for the period 1986 to 2020 from open source databases was carried out which gave 30 eligible studies for this meta-analysis. The pooled prevalence of toxocarosis in cow and buffalo calves of India was found to be 10.5% (95 % CI=7.0 – 14.5%). Meta-analysis showed that there is statistically high heterogeneity for the prevalence estimates reported in recruited studies. The effect of moderators viz. sample size and publication year on meta-analysis was also analysed through a meta-regression. This meta-regression showed that there was significant negative relationship between both the variables and final estimates of prevalence. This study provided primary insights on the abundance of toxocarosis infection in calves and warrants for the critical care to be taken during early days of life as well as weaning of calves. Results of this study helps in planning for strategic deworming schedule of calves to avoid future losses. ','Cow, buffalo, calves, Toxocara, India, MetaXL, weaning','The detailed meta-analysis of prevalence estimates of toxocarosis in cow and buffalo calves provided essential insights on its distribution in Indian livestock. The pooled prevalence rate of 10.5% is substantial and it affirms the necessity to undertake the more concerted efforts to reduce this infection by systematic epidemiological surveillance and monitoring so as to improve the productivity of dairy animals.','-','Shirale S.Y. and Bhangale G.N. (2023). An Appraisal of Toxocarosis in Calves in India through a Meta-analysis of Prevalence Studies. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 15(5a): 331-337.'),(7115,'163','Combat of Bacteriocin Producing Lactiplantibacillus pentosus LMEM1001 isolated from Neera with Bactericidal activity against MRSA and VRSA Strains','Narmada Talloli, Vandana Rathod, Roopa Niroli, Ravi M., Shajji Dahwood, Dattu Singh, Krishna Rayudu and Sujata Hoshmani ','Combat-of-Bacteriocin-Producing-Lactiplantibacillus-pentosus-LMEM1001-isolated-from-Neera-with-Bactericidal-activity-against-MRSA-and-VRSA-Strains-Vandana-Rathod-56.pdf','',1,'Antimicrobial resistance accelerates due to overuse and indiscriminate use of antibiotics by all living creature. Indiscriminate use of antibiotics and other chemical compounds leads to several side effects and results in increased antibiotic resistance day by day. The emergence of antibiotic-resistant bacterial strains, including Extended-Spectrum Beta-Lactamase (ESBL), Methicillin-Resistant Staphylococcus aureus (MRSA), and Vancomycin-Resistant Staphylococcus aureus (VRSA), has become a significant global health concern. To address this issue, alternative antimicrobial agents are being explored, and bacteriocins produced by lactic acid bacteria are gaining attention due to their potential as natural alternatives to conventional antibiotics. Bacteriocins are ribosomally synthesized antimicrobial peptides produced by bacteria, harmless to human and more effective for gastroinstestinal tract infections. Study investigates the bactericidal activity of bacteriocins from by Lactiplantibacillus pentosus LMEM1001 (VRN-32) isolated from Neera a traditional probiotic drink. Bacteriocin production was confirmed by well diffusion assays. Bacterioicin from VRN-32 was purified by ammonium sulphate precipitation, and RP-HPLC. Partially Purified bacteriocin was stable against heat and extreme pH. Inhibitory effects of bacteriocin found to be stable over a broad temperature 80°C and pH 8.0 Bacterioc in was stable with Lysozyme and resistant to proteinase-K. Stability of bacterioic in was maximum with surfactants such as Tween-80 and Triton X-100, where as SDS and β-mercaptoethanol found to decrease its stability. Bacteriocin from VRN-32 showed promising antimicrobial activity against Methicillin Resistant Staphylococuss aureus (ATCC- 33591) and Vaccomycin Resistant Staphylococuss aureus VRSA stains isolated from hospital acquired infections. Lantibiotic isolated from probiotic drink neeera was partial purified and showed promising activity against emerging Super Bugs and the probiotic found to be an excellent alternative to hazardous antibiotics.','Antimicrobial resistance, Neera, MRSA, VRSA','Antimicrobial peptides called bacteriocins produced by bacteria and have the ability to either kill or stop the growth of other bacteria. Bacteriocins hold great promise as a new class of antibiotics and food preservatives, but more research is needed to fully understand their potential and to develop effective methods for their production and application. With the increasing threat of antibiotic resistance a new viable alternative is necessary. Our bacteriocins isolated from L. pentosus LMEM1001 have broad inhibitory action against gram positive, gram negative and fungal pathogens and it is stable at high temperature and low pH, which can be used in biopreservation and medical fields as bacteriocin are effective against MRSA,VRSA strains. Hence, bacteriocin produced by L. pentosus LMEM1001 can represent a promising alternative that could help combat the spread of infectious diseases and improve food safety and control diseases caused due to pathogens with nil side effects. ','-','Narmada Talloli, Vandana Rathod, Roopa Niroli, Ravi M., Shajji Dahwood, Dattu Singh, Krishna Rayudu and Sujata Hoshmani (2023). Combat of Bacteriocin Producing Lactiplantibacillus pentosus LMEM1001 isolated from Neera with Bactericidal activity against MRSA and VRSA Strains. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 15(5a): 338-344.'),(7116,'162','Evaluation of Genetic Variability and Frequency Distribution in the F2 Segregating Population of Tomato Cross Anagha x IIHR 2896','Bhaskar Reddy S., Beena Thomas, Anand S., Ankitha M.O. and Byrapuram Arani Jyothi ','Evaluation of Genetic Variability and Frequency Distribution in the F2 Segregating Population of Tomato Cross Anagha x IIHR 2896-Bhaskar Reddy S.pdf','',1,'Genetic variability and its hereditary components play a vital role in the selection of breeding material. A fundamental grasp of genetic diversity is essential for creating an superior variety. So, the F2 population of the cross Anagha and IIHR 2896 was evaluated for frequency distribution and genetic parameters. The frequency distribution of the F2 population showed positive skewness with platykurtic for all traits except number of days to first flowering and number of locules, which showed negative skewness and platykurtic distribution. Genetic variability results showed high GCV and PCV for traits like plant height, number of primary branches, plant spread, fruit weight, fruit volume, number of locules and fruit yield per plant. Higher heritability was recorded for all the traits whereas, high GAM was shown by all the traits except the number of days to first flowering and number days to first fruit harvest which showed low GAM. This indicates that the presence of high genetic variation, heritability and GAM for many characters will help in the improvement of those characters through direct and indirect selection.','GCV, PCV, GAM, Heritability, Skewness, Platykurtic distribution','Higher genetic variability is seen for plant height (cm), number of primary branches, plant spread (cm), number of fruits per plant, fruit weight (g), fruit volume (ml), number of locules and fruit yield per plant (kg). However same characters showed a high amount of heritability coupled with genetic advance as percent of mean, which indicates that there is a greater scope for improvement in these characters through selection.','-','Bhaskar Reddy S., Beena Thomas, Anand S., Ankitha M.O. and Byrapuram Arani Jyothi (2023). Evaluation of Genetic variability and Frequency Distribution in the F2 Segregating Population of Tomato Cross Anagha x IIHR 2896. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 15(8): 111-115.'),(7117,'162','Estimation of Heterosis for Yield and Yield contributing Traits in Bitter gourd (Momordica charantia L.)','Jagannath Rajamma Meghashree, Vasant Magundappa Ganiger, Jyothi Somashekhara Aravinda Kumar, Gurubasappa Bhuvaneshwari, Jnaneshwar Basavanneppa Gopali, Shashikanth Evoor, Sarvamangala Shidramappa Cholin and Raghavendra Gunnaiah ','Estimation-of-Heterosis-for-Yield-and-Yield-contributing-Traits-in-Bitter-gourd-(Momordica-charantia-L.)-Jagannath-Rajamma-Meghashree-18.pdf','',1,'Bitter gourd is a warm season versatile vegetable of the cucurbitaceae family and has economical, medicinal and horticultural importance. Heterosis is a significant phenomenon that increases the yield potential of the crop by taking advantage of the additive and dominant effects of genes for different traits present in the parents. Bitter gourd productivity in India is low due to a lack of suitable hybrids so exploitation of hybrid vigour is one of the finest options for increasing crop yield and production. The present study was carried out to develop 28 hybrids by crossing 7 lines and 4 testers in line × tester fashion. Hybrids were evaluated along with parents and checks in the randomized complete block design (RCBD) with two replications. Heterosis was observed for all the yield and yield attributing characters. IC-470550 × Preethi, Gy 3-1-1-1-2 × Phule Green Gold and IC-505623 × Preethi hybrids performed better for the yield and its related traits with maximum heterosis over the better parent and checks. These crosses can be exploited in crop improvement by generating transgressive segregants.','Bitter gourd, Hybrids, Relative heterosis, Heterobeltiosis, Economic heterosis, Yield','Cross combinations such as IC-470550 × Preethi, Gy 3-1-1-1-2 × Phule Green Gold and IC-505623 × Preethi were best performing for the yield and its related traits with maximum heterosis and can be exploited for crop improvement. It can be concluded that heterosis can be exploited for commercial cultivation in these cross combinations.','-','Jagannath Rajamma Meghashree, Vasant Magundappa Ganiger, Jyothi Somashekhara Aravinda Kumar, Gurubasappa Bhuvaneshwari, Jnaneshwar Basavanneppa Gopali, Shashikanth Evoor, Sarvamangala Shidramappa Cholin and Raghavendra Gunnaiah (2023). Estimation of Heterosis for Yield and Yield contributing Traits in Bitter gourd (Momordica charantia L.). Biological Forum – An International Journal, 15(8): 116-124.'),(7118,'163','Effect of Bio-fertilizers and Plant Growth Regulators on Growth, Yield, Quality and Economics of Strawberry (Fragaria × ananassa Duch.) Cv. Camarosa','Himansh Marwaha, Lakhwinder Singh and Dilip Singh Kachawaya ','Effect-of-Bio-fertilizers-and-Plant-Growth-Regulators-on-Growth,-Yield,-Quality-and-Economics-of-Strawberry-(Fragaria-×-ananassa-Duch.)-Cv.-Camarosa-Lakhwinder-Singh-57.pdf','',1,'A Research was carried out at Agriculture Research Farm, Mata Gujri College, Fatehgarh Sahib (Punjab), India throughout the year 2021-22 to ascertain the impact of Biofertilizers and Plant growth Regulators on various parameters of strawberry Cv. Camarosa. Trial was conducted in randomised block design (RBD), replicated thrice with 10 various treatments. Findings of the research depicted that among all the different treatments, T5 (Azotobacter 2g/plant + GA3 5ppm) followed by T6 (Azotobacter 2g/plant + NAA 5ppm), demonstrated significant effectiveness across various parameters of crop ‘s growth, flowering, yield, quality and economics. One of the main challenges in studying the effect of bio-fertilizers and plant growth regulators on strawberries is the complexity of interactions between these factors and environmental conditions, such as soil type, climate, and pest pressure, to draw meaningful conclusions about their impact on growth, yield, quality, and economic viability of strawberry cultivation. Measurements during initial growth stage of plants was maximum in T5 (Azotobacter 2g/plant + GA3 5ppm) compared to other treatments. T6 Azotobacter 2g/plant + NAA 5ppm) followed closely behind T5 in terms of crop growth (eg; plant height, number of leaves, stem girth, plant spreading etc.) parameters. Beside this, the flowering and yield parameters was also higher in T5 (Azotobacter 2g/plant + GA3 5ppm). The dose concluded combined Azotobacter 2g/plant + GA3 @5ppm depicts significant results under Punjab region of India with respect to Strawberry Cv. Camarosa.','Strawberry, Camarosa, Azotobacter, GA3, Growth, Yield, Economics','Based on the current research study conducted in 2021-22, It can be concluded consecutively that treatments T5 (Azotobacter 2g/plant + GA3 5ppm) followed by T6 (Azotobacter 2g/plant + NAA 5ppm) was found bests in termss of growth, quality, yield and economics parameters of the Strawberry Cv. Camarosa under Punjab Region of India. To be concluded, it can be asserted that when Azotobacter 2g/plant is used along with + GA3 5ppm depicts significant results in strawberry Cv. Camarosa.','-','Himansh Marwaha, Lakhwinder Singh and Dilip Singh Kachawaya (2023). Effect of Bio-fertilizers and Plant Growth Regulators on Growth, Yield, Quality and Economics of Strawberry (Fragaria × ananassa Duch.) Cv. Camarosa. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 15(5a): 345-352.'),(7119,'162','Effect of Hydrogel and Anti-Transpirants on Growth, Yield and Quality of Strawberry in Jammu Subtropics Conditions','Shabir Ahmad Magray, Rakesh Kumar, Parshant Bakshi, Kiran Kour, Reetika Sharma, Nikhil Thakur and Maanik','Effect-of-Hydrogel-and-Anti-Transpirants-on-Growth,-Yield-and-Quality-of-Strawberry-in-Jammu-Subtropics-Conditions-RAKESH-KUMAR-19.pdf','',1,'The present investigation entitled “Studies of Anti-transpirants and Hydrogel on Strawberry Production under Rainfed conditions of Jammu” was undertaken at Rainfed Research Sub-Station for Sub-Tropical Fruits (RRSS), Raya Samba, SKUAST- Jammu during the year 2021-2022. The experiment was laid out in Randomized Complete Block Design (RCBD) with ten treatments each replicated thrice. In this trail, Hydrogel (1g, 2g and 3g per plant), Cycocel (500 ppm, 750 ppm and 1000 ppm) and Kaolin (2%, 4% and 6%) were applied. The vegetative, reproductive, physical, biochemical, stress and soil parameters were recorded along with relative economics in strawberry cv. Nabila. Among the different treatments, maximum plant height (20.29 cm), plant spread (33.97 cm), number of leaves per plant (23.68) and leaf area (142.71 cm2), was observed in T3. The minimum number of days taken to first flower (76.76 days), maximum duration of flowering (62.26 days), number of flowers per plant (24.04), number of fruits per plant (12.70), fruit weight (28.23 g), fruit length (4.56 cm), fruit breadth (3.33 cm), yield per plant (358.52 g), TSS (8.4 oBrix), juice percentage (93.81%), total sugars (7.28%), reducing sugars (5.10%), non-reducing sugars (2.07%), ascorbic acid (66.98 mg/100g of fresh weight) and anthocyanin content (51.90 mg/100g of fresh weight) were observed with T5. At the end of the investigation, it can be concluded that hydrogel @ 3 g per plant was best in improving growth whereas, CCC @ 750 ppm has impressive effect on fruit yield and quality. Challenges of the study might include the influence of uncontrollable environmental factors, variations in soil conditions, and potential pest and disease pressures that could have affected the experimental outcomes. The study\'s findings contribute to sustainable agriculture and help strawberry farmers in Jammu region to improve their production practices for better economic returns.','Strawberry, Nabila, Hydrogel, Cycocel, Kaolin','In conclusion, exploring the long-term effects, potential synergies, and economic viability of hydrogel and anti-transpirant applications in strawberry cultivation holds great promise for sustainable agriculture in Jammu\'s subtropical conditions. Such research endeavors can play a crucial role in promoting water-efficient farming practices, improving crop productivity, and contributing to food security in the region.','-','Shabir Ahmad Magray, Rakesh Kumar, Parshant Bakshi, Kiran Kour, Reetika Sharma, Nikhil Thakur and Maanik (2023). Effect of Hydrogel and Anti-Transpirants on Growth, Yield and Quality of Strawberry in Jammu Subtropics conditions. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 15(8): 125-129.'),(7120,'162','Screening of efficient Drought Tolerant Arbuscular Mycorrhizal Fungi for Chilli (Capsicum annuum L.)','R. Mythra, G.S. Srikanth, Praveen Ranadev and L. Krishna Naik ','Screening-of-efficient-Drought-Tolerant-Arbuscular-Mycorrhizal-Fungi-for-Chilli-(Capsicum-annuum-L.)-R-Mythra-20.pdf','',1,'Abiotic stresses on crops are a result of the long-term changes in climate. The principal factor limiting crop growth, development and production is drought stress. Eighty percent of all known terrestrial plants have symbiotic relationships with Arbuscular Mycorrhizal Fungi (AMF). It has a positive effect on plant development, water uptake and abiotic stress defence. In this perspective, AM fungal isolates were obtained from Karnataka\'s drought-prone regions. The MPN technique was used to count the infectious propagules in each isolate. The effective isolates were tested in chilli at various field capacity (FC) levels (25, 50, 75, and 100% FC) for drought tolerance. Plants were grown in polythene bags for 30 days under greenhouse condition and based on performance of mycorrhizal parameters and plant parameters, the efficient drought tolerant isolates (AMC23 and AMR1) were selected.','AM fungi, Chilli, drought stress','Plants respond to drought stress by adopting different strategies, which allow them to avoid stress and/or enhance drought tolerance. Plant roots have highly plastic traits that can be modulated by AMF to enhance water uptake and/or minimize water loss. This dehydration tolerance is associated with survival and sustained physiological adaptations to improve the performance of plants and enhance the yield under drought stress condition.','-','R. Mythra, G.S. Srikanth, Praveen Ranadev and L. Krishna Naik (2023). Screening of efficient Drought Tolerant Arbuscular Mycorrhizal Fungi for Chilli (Capsicum annuum L.). Biological Forum – An International Journal, 15(8): 130-134.'),(7121,'162','Assessing the Impact of Functionalized Bentonite in Reducing Lead content and uptake in Spinach (Spinacia oleracea cv. All Green)','A. Naveenkumar, K.M. Manjaiah, V.K. Sharma, Prasenjit Ray, Renu Pandey, R.N. Sahoo, Rajesh Kumar, T.K. Das, Md. Basit Raza, Siyaram Meena and Ravi Saini','Assessing-the-Impact-of-Functionalized-Bentonite-in-Reducing-Lead-content-and-uptake-in-Spinach-(Spinacia-oleracea-cv.-All-Green)-KM-Manjaiah-21.pdf','',1,'A pot culture experiment was conducted to assess the effect of modified bentonite application on lead (Pb) uptake by spinach (Spinacia oleracea cv. All Green). Amendment of soil with humic acid functionalized bentonite @ 7.5 g kg-1 significantly improved the plant growth by 74.7, 128.8 and 122.6 % in first, second and third harvest, respectively over control. The metal concentration of spinach reduced to 2.17, 1.74 and 1.32 mg kg-1 for Pb at first, second and third harvest, respectively on application of 7.5 g kg-1 humic acid bentonite (T10). However, Fe-bentonite, GHA-bentonite and Humic acid-bentonite reduced Pb content in spinach at all the applied doses, but application at 7.5 g kg-1 soil was found most significant as compared to control. Between the treatments, highest dry weight of spinach plant was recorded at higher dose of Humic acid-bentonite followed by GHA-bentonite and Fe-bentonite. The hazard quotient (HQ) for metal uptake through consumption of spinach was significantly reduced by application of bentonite @ 7.5 g kg-1 as it immobilises heavy metals in polluted soil.','Functionalized clays, phytoremediation, metal contamination, risk assessment','The present study highlights the positive effects of using humic acid functionalized bentonite clay on the growth and heavy metal tolerance of spinach plants. The addition of functionalized bentonite had a significant and positive impact on the biomass production of spinach during all three harvest times, leading to a substantial increase in plant growth compared to the unamended soil. The study\'s findings revealed that using humic acid functionalized bentonite at an application rate of 7.5 g kg-1 proved most effective in immobilizing heavy metals like Pb. By introducing functionalized bentonite, the chemical adsorption of heavy metals increased, leading to a reduction in their mobility in plants. Bentonite\'s high surface area and enhanced adsorptive capacity effectively immobilized heavy metals in the soil, reducing their bioavailability and uptake by plants. The reduction in the hazard quotient of heavy metals in spinach was attributed to the decreased metal uptake by plants as a result of their immobilization in the soil due to the application of humic acid functionalized bentonite. The approach outlined in this research allows for the application of modified bentonite in soil to decrease the mobility and availability of heavy metals to plants, consequently reducing the health risks associated with consuming vegetables grown in metal-contaminated soils.','-','A. Naveenkumar, K.M. Manjaiah, V.K. Sharma, Prasenjit Ray, Renu Pandey, R.N. Sahoo, Rajesh Kumar, T.K. Das, Md. Basit Raza, Siyaram Meena and Ravi Saini (2023). Assessing the Impact of Functionalized Bentonite in Reducing Lead content and uptake in Spinach (Spinacia oleracea cv. All Green). Biological Forum – An International Journal, 15(8): 135-140.'),(7122,'162','Effect of Organic Manures and Liquid Formulations on Growth, Yield and quality of Chilli (Capsicum annum L.)','Ujjwal D., Lakhawat S.S., Chhipa B.G., Lakhawat, S., Upadhyay, B. and Saharan, V.','Effect-of-Organic-Manures-and-Liquid-Formulations-on-Growth,-Yield-and-quality-of-Chilli-(Capsicum-annum-L.)-Ujjwal--D-22.pdf','',1,'A field experiment was conducted during Kharif 2022 at Rajasthan College of Agriculture, MPUAT, Udaipur to study effect of organic manure and liquid formulation on growth, yield and quality of chilli (Capsicum annum L.). In present scenario, chilli production is constrained by adoption of low yielding cultivars, increased incidence of pest and diseases due to monocropping, improper supply of nutrients, etc. There is a need to optimise these factors of production for better yield in chilli. There is a need arise to develop simple, low cost and easily acceptable production technology for profitable and sustainable chilli production. Keeping above in mind, this experiment was designed in a Factorial Randomized Block Design, comprising twelve treatment combinations along with control. Results showed that the application of M2 treatment (i.e. ½ RDN through NADEP compost + ½ RDN through Vermicompost) as organic manures and in Liquid formulation F4 treatment (i.e. 10% Jeevamrit at 30 and 45 DAT) were found significantly highest values of various characters of chilli such as plant height, number of leaves, number of branches, leaf area index, fruit length and diameter and minimum value days to 1st flowering, 50% flowering and 1st picking respectively observed among the treatment. Among the treatment combinations, M2F4 treatment i.e. ½ RDN through NADEP compost + ½ RDN through Vermicompost along with the foliar spray of 10% Jeevamrit at 30 and 45 DAT was recorded with highest fruit length, number of fruits per plant, fruit weight, fruit yield per plot and fruit yield per hectare during investigation.','Chilli, vermicompost, NADEP compost, Jeevamrit, organic and liquid formulation','It was concluded from the study that application of M2 treatment (i.e. ½ RDN through NADEP compost + ½ RDN through Vermicompost) as organic manures and in Liquid formulation F4 treatment (i.e. 10% Jeevamrit at 30 and 45 DAT) were found significantly with all growth and yield parameters. Among the treatment combinations, M2F4 treatment i.e. ½ RDN through NADEP compost + ½ RDN through Vermicompost along with the foliar spray of 10% Jeevamrit at 30 and 45 DAT was recorded with highest fruit length (i.e.8.04 cm), number of fruits per plant (i.e.88.47), fruit weight (i.e.5.59g), fruit yield per plot (i.e.12.37 kg) and fruit yield per hectare (i.e.18.31t).','-','Ujjwal D., Lakhawat S.S., Chhipa B.G., Lakhawat, S., Upadhyay, B. and Saharan, V. (2023). Effect of Organic Manures and Liquid Formulations on Growth, Yield and quality of Chilli (Capsicum annum L.). Biological Forum – An International Journal, 15(8): 141-147.'),(7123,'163','Multivariate Analysis of Morphological variation in Palmyrah \r\n(Borassus flabellifer L.) germplasm\r\n','Vasanth S., Premalakshmi V., Ganga M., Manivannan M.I., Juliet Hepziba S. and Sivaprakash M. ','Multivariate-Analysis-of-Morphological-variation-in-Palmyrah-Vasanth-S-58.pdf','',1,'Determination of elite genotypes in crop improvement program is achieved by using the biometrical techniques that assess the crop performance. Up to now, no research work has been done on morphological characterization of palmyrah. This made us to select the present work as our study. In the present study, 21 Palmyrah germplasms were evaluated for 13 morphological traits through Principal Component analysis to evaluate the genetic divergence, pattern of variation present in the germplasms and relationship among the tested individuals and their correlation analysis. The study was conducted at Agricultural College & Research Institute, Killikulam in 2023. The first four principal components exhibited desired eigenvalues and explicated 72.97% of the total variability in the observed traits. From the Biplot, the traits viz., stem girth at the ground level, girth of trunk at one meter height from ground level, crown length, number of Inflorescences per tree, number of leaf segments per tree, inflorescences length, plant height, petiole length, number of scars between 50cm in the trunk contributed maximum diversity. The genotypes ACC5EBKKM, ACC1ODKKM and ACC3ODKKM showed high positive values. The Cluster analysis displayed four major groups viz., I, II, III and IV consisting of 8, 1, 9 and 3 accessions, respectively. The accessions from the diverse clusters can be exploited for breeding program in Palmyrah.','Palmyrah, Principal Component analysis (PCA), genetic divergence, Biplot, Cluster analysis','Multivariate analysis was performed in Palmyrah germplasms to study the morphological variation among them to find out the best genotypes. The STAR (Computer software) software was used for this analysis. Totally 21 germplasms were evaluated in this analysis. From the results, out of 21 germplasms three accessions viz., ACC5EBKKM, ACC1ODKKM and ACC3ODKKM had more diversity. Among the morphological traits, stem girth at the ground level, girth of trunk at one meter height from the ground level, inflorescences length, crown length, plant height, number of scars between 50cm in the trunk, number of leaf segments per leaves showed significant variations. In cluster analysis, there are four clusters. Here, the value of cophenetic correlation coefficient was 0.634 that showed the high efficiency of the clustering pattern.','-','Vasanth S., Premalakshmi V., Ganga M., Manivannan M.I., Juliet Hepziba S. and Sivaprakash M. (2023). Multivariate Analysis of Morphological variation in Palmyrah (Borassus flabellifer L.) germplasm. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 15(5a): 353-361.'),(7124,'162','Elucidating Whitefly Bemisia tabaci Asia II 1 Transmission of MYMIV and the Possible Role of ORF AC4 in YMD of Soyabean','M.N. Rudra Gouda, Vineeth Vijayan, Emmadi Venu, Bichhinna Maitri Rout and Lokesha G. ','Elucidating Whitefly Bemisia tabaci Asia II 1 Transmission of MYMIV and the Possible Role of ORF AC4 in YMD of Soyabean-MN Rudra Gouda-23.pdf','',1,'Soybean, an important legume crop, suffers from Mungbean Yellow Mosaic India Virus (MYMIV) stress. Whiteflies, Bemisia tabaci Genn., transmit MYMIV DNA A. This virus severely reduces crop productivity. In the absence of epidemiological information, no definite management strategy has been developed so far. Interaction between viruliferous whitefly and soybean at initial stages is crucial in epidemic development, and thus the interaction appears to be critical for developing management strategies. For this purpose, knowledge of the MYMIV virus-whitefly interaction is required. But the studies on the transmission of MYMIV by whiteflies in soybeans are limited. Thus, considering the importance of YMD in soybean, the present investigation was carried out to determine the MYMIV-whitefly relationship in soybean. MYMIV DNA A\'s complementary strand, ORF AC4, encodes a symptom-determinate protein. After artificially inoculating susceptible soybean cultivar JS 335 with viruliferous whiteflies (Bemisia tabaci Asia II 1) in a glasshouse, whitefly population and plant tissue maturity were linked to yellow mosaic disease (YMD). Thus, an average of five whiteflies and less than 15-day-old leaves were needed to produce a greater than 60% disease incidence. DNA A from MYMIV isolate VR2 New Delhi (accession: OQ473638) was grouped with strain Mu2. In in silico research, ORF AC4 found the catalytic domain in lysyl oxidases, a common and unique class of quinoenzymes that catalyse the oxidative deamination of primary amines to their aldehydes while reducing molecular oxygen to hydrogen peroxide. Thus, MYMIV ORF AC4 products cause chlorophyll yellowing through oxidation processes. The present study thus revealed that due to the viable potential primary inoculum delivered by whiteflies, it is essential for MYMIV to cause YMD in healthy soybeans and also that the genomic region of MYMIV encoded with the AC4 protein can oxidise functional groups of amino acids in proteins, which promotes the symptom development in soybeans in the form of a yellow mosaic.','Bemisia tabaci Asia II 1, MYMIV, DNA A, and AC4','Thus, the present study revealed that due to viable potential primary inoculum delivered by whiteflies, it is essential for MYMIV to cause YMD in healthy soybean. A minimum of five whiteflies can be used for studying disease under controlled conditions. The genomic region of MYMIV encoded with the AC4 protein has the ability to oxidize functional groups of amino acids in proteins, which promoted symptom development in soybeans in the form of a yellow mosaic.','-','M.N. Rudra Gouda, Vineeth Vijayan, Emmadi Venu, Bichhinna Maitri Rout and Lokesha G. (2023). Elucidating Whitefly Bemisia tabaci Asia II 1 Transmission of MYMIV and the Possible Role of ORF AC4 in YMD of Soyabean. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 15(8): 148-158.'),(7125,'146','Aflatoxin Contamination of Major Groundnut Growing Districts of Odisha and Morphological Diversity of Aspergillus flavus isolates','S. Pavan Kumar, A.K. Senapati, S.K. Beura, S.K. Panda, D.P. Samantray','Aflatoxin-Contamination-of-Major-Groundnut-Growing-Districts-of-Odisha-and-Morphological-Diversity-of-Aspergillus-flavus-isolates-S-Pavan-Kumar-242.pdf','',1,'The groundnut (Arachis hypogaea L.) is one of the most significant edible crops in India, containing 46% oil and serving as a source of nutrition for humans and animals. Aflatoxin contamination is a severe issue that has a significant effect on the global groundnut industry and poses hazards to public health. The present investigation was carried out to know the occurrence of aflatoxin contamination in groundnut pod samples in Odisha. Study the Aspergillus flavus cultural variability. The survey conducted during rabi season 2017-18 from 40 blocks from 10 major groundnut growing districts of Odisha, there was a significant difference with respect to kernel aflatoxin content. Block-wise, kernel aflatoxin contamination was highest (1296 µg kg-1) in kernels collected from Boden (Naupada) (OGS-21), followed by OGS-1 sample from Balangir (1235 µg kg1) and OGS-32 sample from Sambalpur (1142 µg kg-1). A total of 15 A. flavus isolates have been isolated using the agar plate method from infected groundnut kernels. The Aspergillus flavus Isolates showed variation in their cultural and morphological characters. The colony colour of A. flavus isolates ranged from dark green to light green and the colony margins ranged from green to white and from smooth to irregular in appearance. Four isolates only produced sclerotia exhibiting different sclerotial patterns, including concentric, irregular, and peripheral. There was also variation in the number of sclerotia per plate and the size of the sclerotia.','Aspergillus flavus, sclerotia, aflatoxin contamination','A high prevalence of kernel aflatoxin contamination was found in groundnut farmer seed samples. In state of Odisha, based on aflatoxin contamination by A. flavus, the blocks were Balangiri, Belpara, Saintatal, Nabrongpur, Chandabali, Kalimela, Khariar, Rairakho, Sambalpur categorized as high-risk zone (>100µg kg-1). A. flavus isolates showing diversity in morphological characteristics.','-','S. Pavan Kumar, A.K. Senapati, S.K. Beura, S.K. Panda, D.P. Samantray (2022). Aflatoxin Contamination of Major Groundnut Growing Districts of Odisha and Morphological Diversity of Aspergillus flavus isolates. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 14(4): 1360-1365.'),(7126,'146','abchsdfljfndjgbdbggfbfvfhdbgsdb','Sarada P., Sahoo A.K., Sahoo S.C., Das S.N., Panda R.K. and Dash A. ','test.php','',1,'An experiment on “Effect of foliar application of plant growth regulators on quality of acid lime (Citrus aurantifolia Swingle) Kuliana local’’ was carried out during spring season of the year 2019-20 and 2020-21 at Horticultural Research Farm, Department of Fruit Science and Horticultural Technology, Orissa University of Agriculture and Technology, Bhubaneswar, Barimunda. The experiment was laid out in Pooled Randomized Block Design with fifteen treatment and replicated thrice. Results evaluate the suitable growth regulator in terms of quality parameters. Results revealed that different types of growth regulators (2,4-D at 10 ppm and 20 ppm) and GA3 (GA3 at 50 ppm and 100 ppm) and NAA (NAA at 100 ppm and 200 ppm) and SA (SA at 100 ppm and 200 ppm) and Spermidine (Spermidine at 0.01 ppm and 0.5 ppm) and Putrescine (Putrescine at 0.01 ppm and 0.5 ppm) and Brassinosteroids (Brassinosteroids at 0.1 ppm and 0.5 ppm) and control (water spray) on quality of acid lime kulianalocal. The biometrical observations on various quality attributes were recorded in same seasons in both years. The best fruit quality has been found based on the effectiveness of growth regulators since variations in growth regulators have a significant impact on fruit quality. Brassinosteroids showed the best effect for TSS (7.17 oBrix), Acidity (6.83 %), total sugar content (0.61 per cent), reducing sugar content (0.41 per cent), ascorbic acid (36.35 mg per 100 ml of juice), chlorophyll content (33.03 mg/100 g), flavonoid content (119.91 mg/100 g) and protein (0.82 mg/100 g) with the other treatments including the untreated fruits in both years of the study. Our results illustrated that the BR was gave best results in quality attributes for Kuliana lime.','Acid lime, plant growth regulators, biochemical quality, sugars, acid','Based on the study, it can be concluded that plant growth regulators have become powerful tools to modify several physiological process in plants which are extensively and profitably used in horticultural crops. Among the growth regulators, Brassinosteroid @ 0.5 ppm showed best results interms of highest percent of juice content, TSS, total sugars, reducing sugars, ascorbic acid, chlorophyll content, flavonoid content, protein content and acidity.','-','Sarada P., Sahoo A.K., Sahoo S.C., Das S.N., Panda R.K. and Dash A. (2022). Efficacy of Plant Growth Regulators on Qualitative Characters of Acid Lime Kuliana Local. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 14(4): 1366-1369.'),(7127,'136','Enhancing Cropping by Agro Chemicals Spraying of Kuliana Local','Sarada P., Sahoo A.K., Sahoo S.C., Das S.N., Panda R.K. and Dash A.','Enhancing Cropping by Agro Chemicals Spraying of Kuliana Local-Sarada P-291.pdf','',1,'The present investigation entitled “Effect of plant growth regulators on flowering, fruit set, yield of acid lime (Citrus aurantifolia Swingle) Kuliana local”. This research was conducted at Horticultural Research Station, Department of Fruit Science and Horticultural Technology, Orissa University of Agriculture and Technology, Bhubaneswar, during 2019- 2020 and 2020-21 to evaluate the suitable growth regulator in terms of fruit yield and yield attribute parameters. Results showed that application of growth regulators like 2,4-D (2,4-D at 10 ppm and 20 ppm), GA3 (GA3 at 50 ppm and 100 ppm), NAA (NAA at 100 ppm and 200 ppm), SA (SA at 100 ppm and 200 ppm), Spermidine (Spermidine at 0.01 ppm and 0.5 ppm), Putrescine (Putrescine at 0.01 ppm and 0.5 ppm), Brassinosteroid (Brassinosteroids at 0.1 ppm and 0.5 ppm) and control on yield attributes of acid lime kulianalocal. The yield and yield attributing observations on various yield attributes were recorded in same seasons in both years. The best growth regulator for fruit yield has determined on the basis of growth regulators performances as growth regulators variation has tremendous effect for yield of fruit. Brassinosteroids showed the best effect for number of flowers per shoot (20.17), Fruit set (93.68 per cent), Fruit retention (25.94 per cent ), Fruit drop (74.06 per cent), number of fruits per tree (490.36), Kg/tree (16.26), fruit weight (33.11 gm), fruit length (5.06 cm), fruit diameter (4.36 cm) with the other treatments including the untreated fruits in both seasons of the study. Our results illustrated that the BR was gave best results in yield attributes for Kuliana lime.','Agrochemicals, foliar application, yield attributes, fruit set, fruit drop','It is concluded on the basis of overall performance of treatments on yield characters of fruits, it can be concluded that the values for the number of flowers per shoot, number of fruit set, fruit retention and decreased fruit drop percent, maximum number of fruits per tree, Kg per tree, fruit weight, length, diameter have been obtained maximum while the minimum fruit drop was recorded with BR @ 0.5 ppm of acid lime during both seasons.','-','Sarada P., Sahoo A.K., Sahoo S.C., Das S.N., Panda R.K. and Dash A. (2022). Enhancing Cropping by Agro Chemicals Spraying of Kuliana Local. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 14(3): 1702-1706.'),(7128,'162','Studies on Genetic variability of Metric Traits in Germplasm of Soybean \r\n(Glycine max L. Merrill)\r\n','Krishna Tandekar, Sunil Kumar Nag, Rajeev Shrivastava, Priya Gupta and Khemlata Thakur ','Studies-on-Genetic-variability-of-Metric-Traits-in-Germplasm-of-Soybean-Krishna-Tandekar-24.pdf','',1,'Genetic variability is derived from data on 14 yield-related traits in 200 genotypes of soybean. Results revealed that there were highly significant differences among genotypes for all the characters. Phenotypic coefficient of variance was greater than genotypic coefficient of variance, which indicates influence of environment in the expression of the characters. The highest PCV and GCV values were observed for seed yield/plant, pod bearing length, biological yield. High heritability was recorded in 100 seed weight, oil content, number of primary branches/plant, protein content, plant height, number of seed/plant, pod bearing length, days to maturity, number of seed/pod and harvest index indicating. High heritability coupled with high genetic advance as per cent of mean was observed for 100 seed weight, oil content, number of primary branches/plant, plant height, number of seeds/plant, pod bearing length and harvest index, which indicates presence of additive gene action and selection will be rewarding. In soybean breeding programs, diverse germplasm accessions boost genetic diversity and maintain the rare alleles that make up distinctive germplasm collections. Determining efficient methods to enhance economic features for crop production requires an understanding of the genetic diversity of germplasm sets.','Soybean, heritability, genetic gain, phenotypic coefficient of variation, genotypic coefficient of variation','The analysis of variance revealed significant variation in the genetic materials studied, with a wide range of phenotypic variability. Environmental factors seemed to have a stronger influence, as indicated by higher values of the phenotypic coefficient of variation (PCV) compared to the genotypic coefficient of variation (GCV) for all traits.\r\nSeveral traits, including number of primary branches/plant, plant height, number of seeds/plant, pod bearing length, 100 seed weight, oil content and harvest index, exhibited both high heritability estimates and a substantial genetic advance expressed as a percentage of the mean. This suggests that these traits are predominantly influenced by additive gene action and have a great potential for improvement through selective breeding.\r\nBased on their average performance for seed yield per plant, the genotype JS 75-46 (35.62g), CG soya 11-15 (34.79g) and JS 335 (33.61g) were found to be highly productive. Therefore, these genotypes may be utilized in the future to create new cultivars that contain favorable yield-contributing traits.\r\n','-','Krishna Tandekar, Sunil Kumar Nag, Rajeev Shrivastava, Priya Gupta and Khemlata Thakur (2023). Studies on Genetic variability of Metric Traits in Germplasm of Soybean (Glycine max L. Merrill). Biological Forum – An International Journal, 15(8): 159-164.'),(7129,'147','Seed Morphometric characterization and Multivariate Analysis of French Bean Germplasm','Kartik Pramanik, G.S. Sahu, G.C. Acharya, P. Tripathy, Manasi Dash, M.R. Sahoo, A.V.V. Koundinya and M. Kumari ','Seed-Morphometric-characterization-and-Multivariate-Analysis-of-French-Bean-Germplasm-Kartik-Pramanik-130.pdf','',1,'Germplasm collection, evaluation and minimizing the duplications are key consideration for crop improvement, conservation and exploitation in French bean as wide variation existed in gene pool due to geographical separation. Genetic resources comprised of twenty-seven diverse French bean genotypes including primitive, commercial cultivars, local types collected from different parts of India. Seven qualitative and quantitative seed traits of genotypes were subjected to DUS morphometric test and PCA to disclose its genetic diversity present in them. The screened panel revealed wide variations among genotypes for seed testa colour, seed shape, seed coat pattern, 100 seeds weight, seed length and single seed weight. Six types of seed testa colour was observed in which brown colour was predominate (40.74%) and cuboid seed shape (44.45%) had dominance over five shapes i.e., cuboid, oval, truncate fastigate, kidney shape and truncate. The first four principal components explained 99.27% of total variability. Cluster analysis plotted 27 genotypes into five clusters based on Euclidean distance. Cluster C3 comprised of maximum genotypes (12) whereas, C1, C2, C4 and C5 contained 6, 3, 4 and 2 genotypes respectively. Seed weight contributed maximum to total variation. These findings on seed traits can be used for developing elite French bean cultivar(s) with quality seeds. Furthermore, the study will be advantageous for identifying elite genotypes useful for forthcoming cop improvement in French bean for seeds traits. ','DUS, PCA, Euclidean, 100 seed weight, cuboid','Collection and characterization of germplasm for preliminary evaluation with seed traits is most crucial aspects before initiating any breeding programme. The study depicted presence of wide diversity among French bean genotypes for fourteen seed characters including quantitative and qualitative traits. Evaluation of qualitative seeds traits inferred that brown seed testa colour (40.74%), cuboid seed shape (44.45%) and absence in seed coat pattern (62.96%) were the dominant seed traits among studied genotypes. The genotypes were varied greatly for quantitative seed traits; HSW (14.95-46.52g), SSW (0.15-0.47g), SL (8.51-14.1g), SW (4.62-8.35g), ST (4.31-5.82g), L/W (1.35-2.13), W/T (0.91-1.67). The reported genetic diversity in the studied germplasm can be conserved for future crop improvement in French bean for the concerned traits.','-','Kartik Pramanik, G.S. Sahu, G.C. Acharya, P. Tripathy, Manasi Dash, M.R. Sahoo, A.V.V. Koundinya and M. Kumari (2022). Seed Morphometric characterization and Multivariate Analysis of French Bean Germplasm. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 14(4a): 761-771.'),(7130,'159','Osteodystrophy in Chronic Renal Patients –A Study based on Bilaspur District, Chhattisgarh','Seema Mishra and Shweta Tamrakar','Osteodystrophy-in-Chronic-Renal-Patients-–A-Study-based-on-Bilaspur-District,-Chhattisgarh-Seema-Mishra-114.pdf','',1,'As GFR loss progresses, disturbed mineral metabolism impairs bone microstructure and alters the bone remodelling process, known as CKD—mineral bone disease (MBD). CKD-MBD is characterized by (i) abnormal metabolism of calcium, phosphorus, parathyroid hormone (PTH), or vitamin D; (ii) abnormalities in bone turnover, demineralization, segmental linear growth or strength; (iii) Soft-tissue calcification, either vascular or extra-osseous. Uremic vascular calcification and osteoporosis are the most common complications associated with CKD-MBD. Uncontrolled bone turnover by uremic toxins or secondary hyperparathyroidism leads to impaired bone mineralization and difficulty for calcium and inorganic phosphate to enter bone, resulting in elevated serum calcium and inorganic phosphate. In this study an attempt was made to study the bone health of CKD subjects. 25 CKD patients were studied; their biochemical parameters and bone health related parameters were assessed. The study confirmed that a complex relationship existed between chronic kidney disease-mineral and bone disorders (CKD-MBD) with adverse outcomes in non-dialysis and dialysis patients both. Thus, the study proved the prevalence of Osteodystrophy in CKD patients as a serious co-morbid condition.','Bone resorption and remodelling, chronic kidney disease, Parathyroid hormone, Dyslipidemia','In conclusion, the mechanisms underlying bone loss and repeated fractures in CKD patients are complex and incompletely understood. In contrast to bone biopsy, currently available non-invasive diagnostic measures to detect both quantitative and qualitative bone loss are clinically inadequate as screening or diagnostic techniques. The further relevant researches should continue to investigate the detailed mechanisms of patho-physiology and should focus to seek targeted therapy for quality and quantity-related bone loss in CKD patients.\r\nThus a complex relationship observed existed between chronic kidney disease and mineral and bone disorders (CKD-MBD) with adverse outcomes in non-dialysis and dialysis patients. This study proved the prevalence of Osteo-dystrophy in CKD patients as serious co-morbid condition.\r\n','-','Seema Mishra and Shweta Tamrakar (2023). Osteodestrophy in Chronic Renal Patients –A Study based on Bilaspur District, Chhattisgarh. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 15(6): 739-747.'),(7131,'159','Impact of patient counseling on the safe practice of self-medication ','Jayakumar K. S., Arul B., Kothai R, Philip Jacob','Impact-of-patient-counseling-on-the-safe-practice-of-self-medication--Jayakumar-K.-S-115.pdf','',1,'Self-Medication Practice (SMP) is the habit of consuming medication without a healthcare professional’s prescription. The key intention of this study is to identify the impact of patient counseling in reducing the practice of self-medication. The present study was a cross-sectional study conducted in a community of 250 people in Eraviperoor Grama panchayath of Pathanamthitta District in Kerala for 6 months. From this study it was able to identify that self-medication is being practiced by all age groups irrespective of their educational qualification and the incidence is more among educated. It had been realized that even self-medication was used for diseases with symptoms that lasted for more than three days, Antimicrobials were used without the consultation and directions of a doctor, for diseases for which they had to seek advice from the doctor if the symptoms are not being cured, they use to alter the dose of medicine by their own. This had happened primarily due to their lack of knowledge, other contributing factors such as lack of time, difficulty in accessibility to the health care system, dissatisfaction towards the present health care system, and knowledge about drugs and disease from other sources also play a major role. Through structured and effective patient counseling, the public can be made aware of the consequences of self-medication, thus the practice of self-medication can be reduced which is evident from the current study.','Self Medication Practice, Patient counseling, Pathanamthitta, Aleppy','Insecure use and consumption of drugs can lead to harmful effects such as adverse drug reactions, drug resistance, and unwanted financial expenditure. It was able to identify that the practice of self-medication is popular in all age groups beneath their educational qualification. This happens due to their lack of knowledge about the hazards due to the irrational use of drugs even if it happens in the case of antimicrobials. Structured patient counseling had reduced the practice of self-medication. which proved that patient counseling had an impact on reducing the practice of self-medication. Pharmacists in all sectors of practice should have to be brought aware of the importance of proper counseling to patients about the use of drugs. Thus, the practice of self-medication and hazards that happens due to the same can be rectified.','-','Jayakumar K. S., Arul B., Kothai R, Philip Jacob (2023). Impact of patient counseling on the safe practice of self-medication. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 15(6): 748-760.'),(7132,'159','Quantitative Measurement and Analysis of Renal Obstruction Using ROI Detection Techniques',' Gokhale P.N., Patil B.R. and Joshi Sameer','Quantitative-Measurement-and-Analysis-of-Renal-Obstruction-Using-ROI-Detection-Techniques-Pradnya-Gokhale-116.pdf','',1,'We sought to define quantitative measurements of renal radiotracer’s density inside the kidneys in terms of renal obstruction levels by applying image processing transforms FFT, Wavelet, and Harr Extraction and find correlation among density measured by transforms and radioactive counts by gamma machine. In this retrospective study, we considered 140 renal scintigraphy scans from which 110 were diagnosed with renal obstruction (hydronephrosis) ranging from moderate to severe and 30 cases were found to be normal functioning kidneys. From 110 cases 64 cases were diagnosed with left kidney hydronephrosis (LK-HL) with M/F ratio of 43/21 and 46 cases were diagnosed with right kidney hydronephrosis (RK-HR) with M/F ratio of 23/23. The mean age of the selected case is 25.65 ± 24.58 years. Three image enhanced transforms namely FFT, Wavelet and Harr Extraction are applied to renal scan to detect the density of darkness inside the kidney. Correlation among density-measured count and scintigraphy-measured radioactive count by Spearman’s correlation method. There was strongly positive correlation between FFT measured density inside the kidney and dynamic renal scintigraphy usin99mTc-DTPA measured radioactive counts in case of both left hydronephrosis kidney and right hydronephrosis kidneys (р=0.81 and р=0.80 respectively). Also found moderately positive correlation among Wavelet and Harr Transform’s measures and scintigraphy measures. In conclusion, this study showed that the FFT method can be used to count density in terms of obstruction counts and these quantitative measures of this density can be considered to define the obstruction/hydronephrosis counts instead of reporting moderate level to severe levels.','Renal scintigraphy, obstruction, Feature Extraction, Density count, Correlation coefficient','Diagnosis and assessment of renal disorder is achieved by renal scintigraphy method by measuring radioactive counts of absorbed radiotracer. While reporting patient’s hydronephrosis level quantitatively medical experts finds limitations using renal scintigraphy procedure as the scintigraphy cannot provide renal obstruction count. In this study we processed renal obstruction (also referred as renal hydronephrosis) scans using image extraction and enhancement processing transforms namely FFT, Wavelet and Harr and measured darkness of radiotracer inside the kidney in terms of density. We found that, density counts measured by FFT are approximately closer to radiotracer radioactive counts measured by scintigraphy machine. Thus, FFT’s density count can be considered as a support for diagnosing level of hydronephrosis quantitatively instead of mentioning levels from moderate to severe as these FFT measured density counts found to be directly proportional to radiotracer’s counts.\r\nThis study will support nephrologist and urologist to define stages of renal hydronephrosis i.e. renal obstruction in terms of count and it will be time saving and cost saving in terms of precise diagnosis, treatment and medication.\r\n','-','Gokhale P.N.., Patil B.R.., Joshi Sameer. (2023). Quantitative Measurement and Analysis of Renal Obstruction Using ROI Detection Techniques, Biological Forum – An International Journal, 15(6): 761-767.'),(7133,'159','Formulation and Evaluation of Pyrazinamide loaded Pegylated Polypropylene imine dendrimer for treating Tuberculosis ','Valli Manalan B., Arul B. and Kothai R.','Formulation-and-evaluation-of-Pyrazinamide-loaded-pegylated-polypropylene-imine-dendrimer-for-treating-tuberculosis--Valli-Manalan.-B-117.pdf','',1,'The purpose of the contemporary research was to construct a Pyrazinamide loaded PEGylated fifth generation (5.0G) Poly (Propylene)-Imine (PPI) dendrimer for the treatment of tuberculosis. A PEGylated poly(propylene-imine) dendrimer was prepared, and the drug pyrazinamide was loaded. Tuberculosis is a deadly contagious disease that affects the respiratory systems of the human. Pyrazinamide (PZA) is used to treat Tuberculosis (TB). The dendrimers exhibit superior performance in the process of targeted drug delivery. It increases the drug loading capacity and minimises haemolytic toxicity. The physical as well as chemical properties of the drugs are analysed through UV-spectrophotometric analysis. The free 5.0G PPI dendrimer, synthesis pyrazinamide loaded PEGylated fifth-generation PPI- dendrimer and PEGylated 5.0G PPI dendrimer are considered subjects of enhancing the drug loading capacity investigation. Several research findings have revealed that PEGylation is suitable for modifying the core Ethylene Diamine (EDA)-PPI dendrimers of ethylene diamine initiator. In this work, the transportation of the drug will be carried out at a controlled rate, thereby increasing therapeutic value and minimising fluctuations in plasma concentration. This feature helps to improve the therapeutic intervention in the patients affected by TB.','Pyrazinamide, Ethylene diamine, PPI dendrimers, PEGylation, drug delivery','Dendrimers emerge as an excellent drug carrier, preferred for treating TB. Among the classes of dendrimers, PPI dendrimer remains the most recognised one. In addition to it, dendrimers can improve drug efficiency (Scicluna et al., 2020). Hence, this research utilised the pyrazinamide drug for treating tuberculosis and loaded it into the PPI dendrimer to enhance its efficacy and control the drug release rate. The PEGylation is discovered as the appropriate surface modification technique to enhance the controlled release of the drug in 5.0G PPI dendrimer. The study utilises the EDA as the originator core for producing 5.0G PPI dendrimer and finally encumbered the Pyrazinamide. Hence, the Pyrazinamide loaded. PEGylated 5.0 G PPI exhibits controlled drug release for a long time compared to the free fifth-generation PPI and PEGylated PPI dendrimer. Also, the study conducted in vitro drug release analysis and release kinetic and stability experiments revealed that the prepared Pyrazinamide loaded PEGylated 5.0 G PPI regulates the drug release for a prolonged time and minimises the variation in plasma drug concentration. This novel approach enhances drug therapy management in TB patients and reduces the treatment time.','-','Valli Manalan. B., Arul. B. and Kothai, R. (2023). Formulation and evaluation of Pyrazinamide loaded pegylated polypropylene imine dendrimer for treating tuberculosis. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 15(6): 768-776. '),(7134,'162','Influence of Vermicompost and Vermiwash on Yield Attributes and Yield of Urdbean','Joshi D., Yadav L.R., Rathore B.S., Gurjar B.S., Srivastava H., Verma R.S. and Yadav M. ','Influence-of-Vermicompost-and-Vermiwash-on-Yield-Attributes-and-Yield-of-Urdbean-Disha-Joshi-25.pdf','',1,'One of the foremost challenges at present in agriculture is the overreliance on synthetic chemical inputs such as fertilizers and pesticides. While these inputs have undoubtedly increased crop yields in the short term, they have also led to environmental degradation, soil erosion and water pollution, posing risks to biodiversity and human health. The utilization of organic amendments in agriculture has gained considerable attention due to their potential benefits in enhancing soil fertility, crop productivity and sustainability. This research was conducted at Agronomy Farm, SKNAU, Jobner in 2020 to investigate the Influence of Vermicompost and Vermiwash on Yield Attributes and Yield of Urdbean. The results revealed significant improvements in plant growth, yield attributes and overall yield, emphasizing the importance of vermicompost and vermiwash in sustainable agriculture. The application of vermicompost 6.0 t/ha resulted in highest yield attributes i.e. pods/plant (27.6), seeds/pod (7.71) and test weight (3.40 gm) and also recorded highest seed and stover yield of urdbean. While, the foliar application of vermiwash with different concentrations also resulted an increase in yield attributes viz., pods/plant, seeds/pod, test weight and seed and stover yield over the control treatment. However, the foliar application of vermiwash 15 % spray resulted to be the best treatment among the all.','Organic amendments, Urdbean, Vermicompost, Vermiwash, Yield attributes','Based on the results of one year experimentation, it may be inferred that application of vermicompost 6.0 t/ha and vermiwash 15 % were found the most superior treatments for obtaining higher seed and stover yield in urdbean. Increase in yield attributes were also observed with the application of different vermicompost doses and vermiwash sprays over the control. ','-','Joshi D., Yadav L.R., Rathore B.S., Gurjar B.S., Srivastava H., Verma R.S. and Yadav M. (2023). Influence of Vermicompost and Vermiwash on Yield Attributes and Yield of Urdbean. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 15(8): 165-168.'),(7135,'162','Effect of essential Oils on Extension of Vase Life of Cut Chrysanthemum cv. Arcticqueen','A. Nirmala, A. Manohar Rao, P. Prasanth, M. Vijayalaxmi, S. Narendar Reddy and D. Srinivasachary','Effect-of-essential-Oils-on-Extension-of-Vase-Life-of-Cut-Chrysanthemum-cv.-Arcticqueen-A-Nirmala-26.pdf','',1,'Cut flowers have become an export income in the global floriculture market. Each type of cut flower has a different vase life and the longevity of their freshness is linked to preharvest, harvest, and postharvest tools and conditions. The postharvest quality and vase life must be considered in order to obtain the desirable qualities of cut flowers, and factors that affect this are important in the floral industry. The use of floral preservative solutions is good practice for prolonging the vase life of cut flowers. Currently, the eco-friendly solutions, which are used as floral preservatives for extending cut flower vase life, have been discovered to be a low-cost and organic alternative as compared to chemical solutions. However, there are certain problems associated with the use of chemical and eco-friendly solutions. The experiment entitled “Effect of essential oils on extension of vase life of cut chrysanthemum cv. arcticqueen” was carried out find out the efficacy of essential oils on physical, physiological and biochemical parameters during the vase life period of chrysanthemum. Artemesia oil, ocimum oil, geranium oil, rosemary oil at 2.5% and 5% concentrations were used after pulsing with 10% sucrose solution. For all the parameter studied geranium oil 2.5% was found well, the reason to might be due to more water uptake more water retention in flower petals of cut chrysanthemum cv. Articqueen.','Chrysanthemum, sucrose, Essential oil, Vase life','Essential oils derived from Artemesia, ocimum, geranium, rosemary have the ability to maintain the quality and prolong the vase life of cut chrysanthemum cv. Arctic queen. Geranium oil was most effective followed by rose mary oil, ocimum oil and artemesia oil. The essential oils by virtue of their active constituents, were capable of inhibiting microbial growth in the vase solution and stem ends of cut flowers. The effective concentration of geranium oil was found to be 2.5%. Among all the essential oil treatments highest vase life (8.98 days) was recorded with geranium oil 2.5% due to better maintenance of cell water balance, by reducing the cut flower sensitivity to ethylene due to the anti bacterial activity of geranium oil due to the preserve of citranellol, gernaoil, linalool, isomethone. These essential oils are eco friendly alternative to manytoxic preservatives currently used in the flower market. Based on the study, we recommend geranium oil 2.5% to use as preservative solution for commercial application in cut chrysanthemum.','-','A. Nirmala, A. Manohar Rao, P. Prasanth, M. Vijayalaxmi, S. Narendar Reddy and D. Srinivasachary (2023). Effect of essential Oils on Extension of Vase Life of Cut Chrysanthemum cv. Arcticqueen. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 15(8): 169-174.'),(7136,'162',' Effect of exogenous application of Sodium Nitroprusside (SNP) and Gibberellic Acid (GA3) on growth and flowering of Dahlia (Dahlia variabilis L.) CV. Kenya','Chetan Chauhan, Mukesh Kumar, Sunil Malik, Manoj Kumar Yadav, L.K. Gangwar, Akash Tomar, Mohit and Varsha Rani ','Effect-of-exogenous-application-of-Sodium-Nitroprusside-(SNP)-and-Gibberellic-Acid-(GA3)-on-growth-and-flowering-of-Dahlia-(Dahlia-variabilis-L.)-CV.-Kenya-Chetan-Chauhan-27.pdf','',1,'Dahlias (Dahlia variabilis) are popular ornamental plants cultivated in many countries which characterized by the rich variety, different forms and attractive flower colors. The present investigation was conducted to study the effect of Sodium Nitroprusside and Gibberellic acid on the growth and flowering of Dahlia cv. Kenya. During two successive season 2021-22 and 2022-23. Different concentration viz. 100 ppm, 150 ppm and 200 ppm of SNP and GA3 as a foliar spray were used. Result indicated that tallest plant (121.54 cm) was those sprayed with GA3 at 200mgL-1. Additionally, it showed that foliar application of GA3 at 200mgL−1 significantly increased the number of branches per plant (12.50), Plant Spread (98.72 cm), number of flowers per plant (15.00), stalk length (19.90 cm) and number of tubers (11.00) while maximum stem diameter (15.67 mm) and highest tuber yield per plant was recorded in GA3 100 ppm and GA3 150 ppm respectively. The most rapid flower bud initiation (50.21 days after planting) and days to 50% flowering (75.21 days) occurred when plants were sprayed with GA3 at 200mgL1. SNP gives better result compared than control but Ga3 more improved the all attributes of dahlia plant. In conclusion, the vegetative flowering and yield characters of dahlia could be improved by application of either GA3.','Dahlia variabilis, GA3, SNP, Morphological parameters, Foliar spray','This study investigated the potential functions of SNP and GA3 in enhancing the overall growth of dahlia plants relative to the control. Foliar application of GA3 was more able than SNP to increase all vegetative, flowering, and tuber characteristics, and this could be a good and economical method for enhancing flower\'s visual and marketable quality. To produce plants with taller shoots useful for getting more high-quality flowers, 200 ppm of GA3 is suggested. Economically, SNP is a low-cost compound that has the potential to enhance the vegetative growth and flowering of dahlia plants, while GA3 is more expensive than SNP. Also recommended is the foliar application of 200 ppm SNP followed by 200 ppm GA3.','-','Chetan Chauhan, Mukesh Kumar, Sunil Malik, Manoj Kumar Yadav, L.K. Gangwar, Akash Tomar, Mohit and Varsha Rani (2023). Effect of exogenous application of Sodium Nitroprusside (SNP) and Gibberellic Acid (GA3) on growth and flowering of Dahlia (Dahlia variabilis L.) CV. Kenya. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 15(8): 175-185.'),(7137,'162','Effect of some abiotic factors on Population Fluctuation of Plant Parasitic Nematodes associated with Rhizosphere of Black Pepper','Pranjal Pratim Neog','Effect-of-some-abiotic-factors-on-Population-Fluctuation-of-Plant-Parasitic-Nematodes-associated-with-Rhizosphere-of-Black-Pepper-Pranjal-Pratim-Neog-28.pdf','',1,'Plant parasitic nematodes are considered as one of the major constraints of successful cultivation of black pepper. Damage caused by plant parasitic nematodes depends on population density of nematodes around the rhizosphere of a particular crop. Population fluctuation of plant parasitic nematodes is governed by several biotic and abiotic factors. Among the abiotic factors soil type, soil pH, soil temperature, soil moisture, rainfall etc. are most important. Study on population fluctuation of plant parasitic nematodes in the rhizosphere of black pepper in relation to soil and atmospheric temperature and rainfall was conducted during 2022 at Biswanath College of Agriculture, Biswanath Chariali, Assam. In the present study the month of March-April and September-October appeared to be the most favourable for increasing the nematode population in soil around the rhizosphere of black pepper plants. Two peaks of total nematode population during October and April was observed. Maximum population of all identified plant parasitic nematode genera was observed in the month of October. In the month of October average maximum atmospheric temperature was recorded as 31.22°C, minimum atmospheric temperature 19.46°C, soil temperature 29.14°C and rainfall of 111.2 mm. During winter months, nematode population was found to be decline and least nematode population was recorded in the month of January, when maximum average atmospheric temperature was recorded as 23.36°C, minimum atmospheric temperature 7.98°C, soil temperature 23.1°C and rainfall of 26 mm. The present study evaluated the population fluctuations of plant parasitic nematodes in relation with various weather parameters. The study will help in devising management strategies to reduce the infestation of plant parasitic nematodes in black pepper. ','Atmospheric temperature, black pepper, nematode population, plant parasitic nematodes, soil temperature','During the winter months population of all plant parasitic nematode was found to be declined as this period received very little amount of rainfall, which indirectly affects the moisture content of soil. Likewise both soil and atmospheric temperature were found to be decline during this period as low temperature is not favourable for nematode multiplication. Nematode populations were found to be increase significantly due to increase of temperature and rainfall, which is congenial for nematode multiplication. Again during the period of heavy rainfall nematode populations were found to be declined as excessive moisture in soil tends to inhibit the locomotion of nematodes and lack of oxygen in saturated soils also adversely affects nematode populations due to asphyxia. Thus it can be concluded that temperature and rainfall have pronounced effect on population fluctuation of plant parasitic nematodes. ','-','Pranjal Pratim Neog (2023). Effect of some abiotic factors on population fluctuation of plant parasitic nematodes associated with rhizosphere of black pepper. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 15(8): 186-190.'),(7138,'162','Principal component analysis for yield and related attributes in rice genotypes','Deepak Meena, Manoj Kumar, Rukoo Chawla, Hitesh Kumar Koli and Naven Kumar Meena ','Principal-component-analysis-for-yield-and-related-attributes-in-rice-genotypes-Deepak-Meena-29.pdf','',1,'More than one-third of the world\'s population relies on rice as a main food source, and it is a model cereal species used as a genetic study platform for gene functions. 25 genotypes were examined for the ten different traits in the present study. To evaluate the relative contribution of several qualities to overall variability, Principal Component Analysis was used. It was discovered that three components have Eigen values greater than 1. A total of 49.20, 24.50, and 10.30 percent of the variability was supplied by PCs 1, 2, and 3. They indicated the traits causing the variation and collectively accounted for 84% of the variability of the genotypes employed in the study.','Eigen value, genotypes, PCA, rice, variability','The coefficients of proper vectors in Principal Component Analysis (PCA) indicate the significance of independent figures in contributing to each primary component. On the other hand, the phenotypic value of each variable assesses its importance and contribution to the total variance. By considering variables with higher retention rates and significant contributions to the interpretation of variability, one can prioritize their usage in breeding programs for yield improvement. The analysis revealed five prominent components (PC1, PC2 and PC3) that collectively accounted for 84% of the total variation. These components play a crucial role in understanding the variability and can be crucial in designing successful breeding programs.','-','Deepak Meena, Manoj Kumar, Rukoo Chawla, Hitesh Kumar Koli and Naven Kumar Meena (2023). Principal component analysis for yield and related attributes in rice genotypes. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 15(8): 191-195.'),(7139,'162','A High Yielding Anthocyanin Rich Brinjal Variety GNRB-1','Brinjal, GNRB-1, Anthocyanin, Yield and Quality','A-High-Yielding-Anthocyanin-Rich-Brinjal-Variety-GNRB-1-Hetal-R-Rathod-30.pdf','',1,'Plant breeding plays an important role for future vegetable production. The growing human population is outstriping vegetable production. Further, the climate change is adversely affecting crop growth and development. To cope with the growing human population and climate change, there is a need to improve the productivity and stability of vegetable crops by developing high yielding and good quality vegetable varieties. Vegetable crop improvement programme in India have concentrated on development of improved varieties with high yield, nutritive values along with abiotic and biotic stress resistance for cultivation at various locations across the country. A high yielding brinjal variety facilitates in improving the productivity, profitability and sustainability of brinjal cultivation in India. Department of Vegetable Science, ASPEE College of Horticulture has developed a high yielding, anthocyanin rich brinjal variety for cultivation in North-West Zone of India. GNRB-1 was evaluated at various locations around the country with four other entries and was compared with the standard check variety Swarna Mani. GNRB-1(393.67 q/ha) has recorded yield improvement of 16.86 % over national check Swarna Mani (336.89 q/ha) under Zone-I condition. It endows with special attributes viz., round, dark purple fruits which is rich in anthocyanin (475.3 mg/100g) and crude fibre (1.42%), and also contains total Phenol (2.07%), TSS (3.09 %), Vitamin C (2.90 mg/100g), β- carotene (0.77 mg/100g) and Glycoalkaloids (0.16%). This variety has recorded lesser incidence of little leaf disease, has less number of whitefly and jassid population per leaf. GNRB-1 was unidentified for notification by the Varietal Release Committee of AICRP (Vegetable Crops) held during 2020 and was notified for release by the Central Committee on Crop Standards, Notification and Release of Varieties for Agricultural Crops, vide the Gazette of India notification No. S.O. 3254 (E) dated 20th July, 2022.','Brinjal, GNRB-1, Anthocyanin, Yield and Quality','GNRB-1 is a high yielding, anthocyanin rich variety which is suitable for cultivation in Kharif and Rabi season, at 90 cm row spacing under normal environmental, irrigated condition in North West Zone of India. It required 400-500 g seeds for planting one hectare area. Its high yield and better quality will play a significant role in improving the productivity, profitability and sustainability of brinjal cultivation in North-West Zone of India.','-','Hetal R. Rathod, C. G. Intwala, A. I. Patel, J. M. Vashi and N. K. Patel (2023). A High Yielding Anthocyanin Rich Brinjal Variety GNRB-1. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 15(8): 196-200.'),(7140,'157','Exosomes as Biomarkers and Therapeutic Targets in Gastric Cancer: Insights into Helicobacter pylori Pathogenesis and Beyond','Achyut Pandey, Shruti Mishra and Rohit Tiwari ','Exosomes-as-Biomarkers-and-Therapeutic-Targets-in-Gastric-Cancer-Insights-into-Helicobacter-pylori-Pathogenesis-and-Beyond-Rohit-Tiwari-246.pdf','',4,'Exosomes are nanoscale vesicles that are made by practically all cell types and contain a variety of biomolecules. By transporting a specific payload, exosomes can interact locally and remotely between cells. Exosomes are crucial mediators of processes like angiogenesis, metastasis, carcinogenesis, and tumor formation and have distinct qualities that make them possible biomarkers. This review article examines the functions, mechanisms, and potential clinical applications of exosomes as biomarkers and therapeutic targets in gastric cancer with a focus on their relationship to Helicobacter pylori etiology. Exosome biosynthesis, molecular characteristics, and several techniques for isolating them are also covered. The article also highlights how exosomes from pathogens contain proteins, lipids, and nucleic acids that have a variety of functions, including suppressing host defense mechanisms, promoting pro-pathogen gene transcription, or delivering microbial antigens to the host immune system. Overall, by spreading harmful chemicals throughout the body, exosomes have a considerable impact on disease etiology. The complicated nature of exosome cargo, standardization of separation and characterisation methods, and the requirement to prove their functional relevance in disease development are challenges in the study of exosomes as biomarkers and therapeutic targets in gastric cancer. However, research on exosomes has made promising advances, shedding light on their function in the pathogenesis of Helicobacter pylori, their potential as diagnostic biomarkers, and their therapeutic applications in the treatment of gastric cancer, opening the door for novel and focused therapeutic strategies.','Exosomes, Gastric cancer, Tumor, RNAs, Helicobacter pylori','The prognosis for those with advanced gastric cancer (GC) is still poor, and this disease continues to pose a serious threat to global health. The need of developing innovative, non-invasive biomarkers having high sensitivity & specificity to screen for early-stage GC is highlighted by the fact that long-term patient survival rates depend on early identification of resectable GC. Exosomes are nanoscale vesicles that are produced by practically all cell types. They are important mediators of processes like angiogenesis, metastasis, carcinogenesis, and tumor formation and may serve as potential biomarkers. Exosomes\' lipid bilayer shape successfully shields their contents from deterioration, allowing them to endure over time in physiological fluids like saliva, blood, urine, and cell culture medium. Their contents may reveal the characteristics of the originating cells. Exosomes and their payload have been used by researchers to create cutting-edge biomarkers for cancer diagnosis and prognosis. With a specific emphasis on their connection to Helicobacter pylori pathophysiology, this review has focused on the roles, mechanisms of action, potential clinical implications of exosomes as GC biomarkers & therapeutic targets. Although there have been numerous ways established for isolating exosomes based on their biophysical and biochemical characteristics, none of the current isolation techniques can completely achieve the isolation of pure exosomes. Exosomes have enormous potential as a novel class of biomarkers and therapeutic targets in GC and other malignancies, hence more study in this field is necessary.','-','Achyut Pandey, Shruti Mishra and Rohit Tiwari (2023). Exosomes as Biomarkers and Therapeutic Targets in Gastric Cancer: Insights into Helicobacter pylori Pathogenesis and Beyond. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 15(5): 1634-1641.'),(7141,'157','Morphological Diversity and Isolation of Genomic DNA of Garcinia pedunculata (Roxburgh ex Buchanan-Hamilton) from selected districts of Brahmaputra Valley of Assam, India','Himadree Phukon, Sarojmoni Sonowal, Mridusmita Dutta, Tridisha Borgohain, Gunjan Jain and Inkita Goswami ','Morphological-Diversity-and-Isolation-of-Genomic-DNA-of-Garcinia-pedunculata-(Roxburgh-ex-Buchanan-Hamilton)-from-selected-districts-of-Brahmaputra-Valley-of-Assam,-India-Mridusmita-Dutta-245.pdf','',1,'In the present study, the morphological features and isolation of genomic DNA of the Garcinia pedunculata was conducted from five sub-sites each from three Districts namely Dibrugarh, Sivasagar and Tinsukia from Brahmaputra valley of upper Assam for a period of one year, from June 2014 to May 2015. Morphological characterization were studied for mature and bearing trees with respect to leaf size, size of leaf petiole, length of leaf vein, size of petiole and pedicels, fruit size etc. Extraction and isolation of genomic DNA from leaf tissue was done by Modified Doyle & Doyle (1990) methodology using CTAB extraction buffer. Results of the study reveals that the morphological features of the Garcinia pedunculata from different geographical locations showed a significant variation, particularly for leaf and fruit characteristics. Isolation and purification of genomic DNA from leaf tissue by Modified Doyle & Doyle (1990) methodology using CTAB extraction buffer indicates that the isolated genomic DNA may have more than 5000 bp. Isolation and purification of genomic DNA by using Modified Doyle & Doyle (1990) methodology using CTAB extraction buffer is a reliable measurement of DNA concentration and its purity. The research involve collecting plant samples from various districts, documenting and analyzing their morphological traits, and then isolating the genomic DNA from these samples. Due to limited access to specialized equipment or consumables necessary for the CTAB method, the extraction process was hindered.','Assam, Brahmaputra Valley, Garcinia pedunculata, Genomic DNA, Morphological diversity','All molecular and genetic studies rely on accuracy in measurement of DNA concentration and purity. Morphological features of the Garcinia pedunculata from different geographical locations showed a significant variation, particularly for leaf and fruit characteristics. Isolation and purification of genomic DNA from leaf tissue by Modified Doyle & Doyle (1990) methodology using CTAB extraction buffer indicates that the isolated genomic DNA may have more than 5000 bp. Sahasrabudhe et al. (2010), worked on standardization of DNA extraction and optimization of RAPD-PCR conditions of Garcinia indica. They worked on modified CTAB protocol adding polyvinylpyrrolidone (PVP) in separate tubes and precipitating with 5M Nacl along with chilled alcohol to increase the solubility of polysaccharides. They could isolate pure and sufficient amount of DNA and optimize RAPD conditions. Isolation and purification of genomic DNA by using Modified Doyle & Doyle (1990) methodology using CTAB extraction buffer is a reliable measurement of DNA concentration and its purity. This study will act as a tool for other researchers in this field to continue their work further on Garcinia species and understand the morphological diversity. Such studies will help in authentication of the genus Garcinia.','-','Himadree Phukon, Sarojmoni Sonowal, Mridusmita Dutta, Tridisha Borgohain, Gunjan Jain and Inkita Goswami (2023). Morphological Diversity and Isolation of Genomic DNA of Garcinia pedunculata (Roxburgh ex Buchanan-Hamilton) from selected districts of Brahmaputra Valley of Assam, India. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 15(5): 1627-1633.'),(7142,'157','Exosomes as Biomarkers and Therapeutic Targets in Gastric Cancer: Insights into Helicobacter pylori Pathogenesis and Beyond','Achyut Pandey, Shruti Mishra and Rohit Tiwari','Exosomes-as-Biomarkers-and-Therapeutic-Targets-in-Gastric-Cancer-Insights-into-Helicobacter-pylori-Pathogenesis-and-Beyond-Rohit-Tiwari-246.pdf','',1,'Exosomes are nanoscale vesicles that are made by practically all cell types and contain a variety of biomolecules. By transporting a specific payload, exosomes can interact locally and remotely between cells. Exosomes are crucial mediators of processes like angiogenesis, metastasis, carcinogenesis, and tumor formation and have distinct qualities that make them possible biomarkers. This review article examines the functions, mechanisms, and potential clinical applications of exosomes as biomarkers and therapeutic targets in gastric cancer with a focus on their relationship to Helicobacter pylori etiology. Exosome biosynthesis, molecular characteristics, and several techniques for isolating them are also covered. The article also highlights how exosomes from pathogens contain proteins, lipids, and nucleic acids that have a variety of functions, including suppressing host defense mechanisms, promoting pro-pathogen gene transcription, or delivering microbial antigens to the host immune system. Overall, by spreading harmful chemicals throughout the body, exosomes have a considerable impact on disease etiology. The complicated nature of exosome cargo, standardization of separation and characterisation methods, and the requirement to prove their functional relevance in disease development are challenges in the study of exosomes as biomarkers and therapeutic targets in gastric cancer. However, research on exosomes has made promising advances, shedding light on their function in the pathogenesis of Helicobacter pylori, their potential as diagnostic biomarkers, and their therapeutic applications in the treatment of gastric cancer, opening the door for novel and focused therapeutic strategies.','Exosomes, Gastric cancer, Tumor, RNAs, Helicobacter pylori','The prognosis for those with advanced gastric cancer (GC) is still poor, and this disease continues to pose a serious threat to global health. The need of developing innovative, non-invasive biomarkers having high sensitivity & specificity to screen for early-stage GC is highlighted by the fact that long-term patient survival rates depend on early identification of resectable GC. Exosomes are nanoscale vesicles that are produced by practically all cell types. They are important mediators of processes like angiogenesis, metastasis, carcinogenesis, and tumor formation and may serve as potential biomarkers. Exosomes\' lipid bilayer shape successfully shields their contents from deterioration, allowing them to endure over time in physiological fluids like saliva, blood, urine, and cell culture medium. Their contents may reveal the characteristics of the originating cells. Exosomes and their payload have been used by researchers to create cutting-edge biomarkers for cancer diagnosis and prognosis. With a specific emphasis on their connection to Helicobacter pylori pathophysiology, this review has focused on the roles, mechanisms of action, potential clinical implications of exosomes as GC biomarkers & therapeutic targets. Although there have been numerous ways established for isolating exosomes based on their biophysical and biochemical characteristics, none of the current isolation techniques can completely achieve the isolation of pure exosomes. Exosomes have enormous potential as a novel class of biomarkers and therapeutic targets in GC and other malignancies, hence more study in this field is necessary.','-','Achyut Pandey, Shruti Mishra and Rohit Tiwari (2023). Exosomes as Biomarkers and Therapeutic Targets in Gastric Cancer: Insights into Helicobacter pylori Pathogenesis and Beyond. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 15(5): 1634-1641.'),(7143,'157','Effect of Co-Administration of Telmisartan with a Luteolin in Dexamethasone Induced Insulin Resistance in Mice','Yogesh S. Ahire, Subrato Kundu and Vinod A Bairagi ','Effect-of-Co-Administration-of-Telmisartan-with-a-Luteolin-in-Dexamethasone-Induced-Insulin-Resistance-in-Mice-Yogesh-S.-Ahire-247.pdf','',1,'Current investigation was planned to evaluate co-administering low and high doses of telmisartan with luteolin in mice with insulin resistance caused by dexamethasone. The grouping of mice into eight different groups was done randomly (n=6): DC, NC, TEL-I, TEL-II, LUT, PIO, TL-I, and TL-II. From 1st day to 22nd day, all groups of mice were injected dexamethasone with at a dosage of 1 mg per kg per day and their respective drugs from day 8 to day 22, except NC group. Glucose as well as triglyceride levels were assessed on 1st, 7th and 22nd days. Mice were euthanized and their livers separated to determine content of antioxidant enzymes and glycogen, while hemidiaphragm was isolated for estimation of glucose uptake. Combination groups TL-I and TL-II showed a prominent increase in utilization of glucose uptake and % change in body weight when compared to DC, TEL-I, TEL-II, and LUT groups. TL-II group demonstrated a remarkable reduction in levels of glucose as well as triglycerides when matched to DC, TEL-I, TEL-II, and LUT groups. Furthermore, TL-I and TL-II showed a remarkable rise in liver antioxidants as well as glycogen content with LPO concentration was reduced significantly in correlation to DC, LUT, TEL-I, and TEL-II groups. From present investigation, concludes that combination of telmisartan with luteolin exhibited synergistic effects in normalizing all estimated parameters compared to individual treated groups in experimental animals with dexamethasone-induced insulin resistance.','Telmisartan, Dexamethasone, Insulin resistance, Type 2 diabetes, Luteolin','From current investigation, we determined, combination of telmisartan with luteolin demonstrated significant as well as ensuring results in dexamethasone-induced diabetes of type 2 treatment, compared to individual treatment groups. Both telmisartan and luteolin exhibited antidiabetic, antihyperlipidemic, and antioxidant potential, and their combination exhibited a synergistic effect in relation to various biochemical, morphological parameters. Further research is needed to evaluate the potential of the combination of telmisartan with luteolin on the long-term complications of type 2 diabetes preclinically.','-','Yogesh S. Ahire, Subrato Kundu and Vinod A Bairagi (2023). Effect of Co-Administration of Telmisartan with a Luteolin in Dexamethasone Induced Insulin Resistance in Mice. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 15(5): 1642-1654.'),(7144,'156','HPLC Method Development, Validation, and Degradation Study of Fosetasmvir by: A Comprehensive Analytical Investigation','Aher B.O., Prakash S. and Bairagi V.A. ','HPLC-Method-Development,-Validation,-and-Degradation-Study-of-Fosetasmvir-by-A-Comprehensive-Analytical-Investigation-Aher-B.O-141.pdf','',1,'This study aimed to quantify Fostemsavir and investigate its breakdown patterns using HPLC and LC-MS techniques. Fostemsavir was obtained as a free sample from Spectrum Laboratory Pvt. Ltd. Solvents and other substances were purchased from S.D. Fine Chemical and the Research Lab. Reliable and precise results were ensured by using high-quality reagents and suitable filtration methods. A Chromatographic Phenomenon C18 column (250 4.6 mm, 5 μm) was employed with a 70:30 methanol: phosphate buffer solvent ratio. UV radiation was used to measure the absorbance of a 10 μg/ml Fostemsavir solution in methanol, with a maximum absorbance observed at 278 nm. The method was validated using ICH standards and demonstrated accurate identification, quantification, and detection of breakdown products. This approach is suitable for routine laboratory analysis and quality control of Fostemsavir.','HPLC, Fosetasmvir, Forced degradation, LC-MS, ICH','A validated HPLC method was developed for the quantification of the medication fostemsavir in compliance with ICH criteria. The technique performed satisfactorily for all validation metrics, including system appropriateness, method precision, accuracy, LOD and LOQ, and robustness. This tried-and-true method has many advantages, including shorter run times, cheaper costs, accessibility, good sensitivity, dependability, and reproducibility. The behaviour of the medications\' degradation was investigated under a variety of stress conditions, including acid, basic, oxidation, reduction, photolytic, and thermal stress. The medications were shown to be unstable in situations involving acid, alkali, and oxidation, but stable in situations involving reduction, heat, and photolysis. The degradation products were further characterised using LC-MS and FTIR analyses.','-','Aher B.O., Prakash S. and Bairagi V.A. (2023). HPLC Method Development, Validation, and Degradation Study of Fosetasmvir by: A Comprehensive Analytical Investigation. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 15(4): 844-853.'),(7145,'162','Zinc Fertilization Effect on Nutrient Uptake, Yield and Soil Fertility after Harvest of Wheat','A.R. Prajapati, Z.Y. Chauhan, K.I. Patel, D.K. Patel and C.K. Patel ','Zinc-Fertilization-Effect-on-Nutrient-Uptake,-Yield-and-Soil-Fertility-after-Harvest-of-Wheat-ZY-Chauhan-31.pdf','',1,'Effect of zinc fertilization on soil fertility, yield and nutrient uptake after harvest of wheat (Triticum aestivum L.) was estimated at Agronomy Instructional Farm, Chimanbhai Patel College of Agriculture, Sardarkrushinagar Dantiwada Agricultural University, Sardarkrushinagar, Gujarat in rabi season (2018-19). Ten different treatments such as RDF, RDF + 10 kg ZnSO4/ha (Soil application), RDF + Foliar Spray of ZnSO4 @ 0.5% (at flowering and milking stage), RDF + Seed priming (1% Zn solution),RDF + Seed priming (2% Zn solution), RDF + 10 kg ZnSO4/ha (Soil application) + Foliar Spray of ZnSO4 @ 0.5% (at flowering & milking stages), RDF + 10 kg ZnSO4/ha (Soil application) + Seed priming (1% Zn solution), RDF + 10 kg ZnSO4/ha (Soil application) + Seed priming (2% Zn solution), RDF + 10 kg ZnSO4/ha (Soil application) + Foliar Spray of ZnSO4@ 0.5% (at flowering and milking stages) + Seed priming (1% Zn solution) and RDF + 10 kg ZnSO4/ha (Soil application) + Foliar Spray of ZnSO4 @ 0.5% (at flowering and milking stages) + Seed priming (2% Zn solution) were evaluated in randomized block design with four replications. Results inferred that wheat variety GW 451 showed significant positive effect on soil fertility, yield, nutrient uptake and nutrient content when fertilized with RDF + 10 kg ZnSO4/ha (Soil application) + Foliar Spray of ZnSO4 @ 0.5% (at flowering and milking stages) + Seed priming (2% Zn solution). ','Nutrient uptake, Soil fertility, Wheat, Yield, Zinc','Based on the experimental results, it can be concluded that fertilizing wheat variety GW 451 with RDF + 10 kg ZnSO4/ha (Soil application) + Foliar Spray of ZnSO4 @ 0.5% (at flowering & milking stages) + Seed priming (2% Zn solution) had a positive impact on yield, nutrient content, nutrient uptake, and nutrient status in the soil.','-','A.R. Prajapati, Z.Y. Chauhan, K.I. Patel, D.K. Patel and C.K. Patel (2023). Zinc Fertilization Effect on Nutrient uptake, Yield and Soil Fertility after Harvest of Wheat. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 15(8): 201-205.'),(7146,'162',' Occurrence of Chilli Leaf Curl Disease (ChiLCD) in southern Districts of Tamil Nadu','Muthamil Kumaran J., Rajinimala N., Theradimani M., Elanchezhyan K., M.I. Manivannan M.I., Ebenezar E. G. and Sheela J. ','Occurrence-of-Chilli-Leaf-Curl-Disease-(ChiLCD)-in-southern-Districts-of-Tamil-Nadu-N-Rajinimala-32.pdf','',1,'An extensive survey was carried out to record the incidence and severity of Chilli Leaf Curl Disease (ChiLCD) in the southern districts of Tamil Nadu. During the survey, the infected chilli plants were shown different symptoms viz., upward curling of leaves, crinkling of leaves, reduced leaf surface, shortening of internodes, bushy appearance of plants and stunted plant growth. Chilli plants showing the above symptoms were collected from Kasilingapuram, Koonarkulam, Peikulam, Pudhur pandiyapuram, Solapuram, Ettayapuram villages of Thoothukudi district, Vallioor, Panangudi, Thalavaipuram, Radhapuram, Kalakudi, Kavalkinaru villages of Tirunelveli district, Athiyuthu, Pavoor chathiram, Keezhapavur villages of Tenkasi district, Peraiyur, Kamuthi, Keelasirupothu, Sadaiyaneri, Mudhukulathur, Idhampadal villages of Ramanathapuram district. Among the surveyed area, ChiLCD incidence was recorded from 16.00 - 85.50 per cent and disease severity was recorded from 10.90 - 60.30 per cent. The highest disease incidence (85.50 %) and disease severity (60.3 %) was recorded in Kalakudi village of Tirunelveli District. The lowest disease incidence (16.00%) and disease severity (10.90%) was recorded in Peikulam village of Thoothukudi District.','Chilli, ChiLCD, Begomovirus','The disease incidence was observed in vegetable growing areas of southern districts of Tamil Nadu. Among the different districts surveyed, maximum disease incidence and disease severity of Chilli leaf curl virus was observed in Tirunelveli district and the lowest disease incidence and disease severity was observed in Thoothukudi district. ChiLCD produced systemic symptoms of upward curling of leaves, crinkling of leaves, puckering of leaf reduced leaf surface, shortening of internodes, bushy appearance of plants and severe stunting of plants.','-','Muthamil Kumaran J., Rajinimala N., Theradimani M., Elanchezhyan K., M.I. Manivannan M.I., Ebenezar E. G. and Sheela J. (2023). Occurrence of Chilli Leaf Curl Disease (ChiLCD) in southern Districts of Tamil Nadu. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 15(8): 206-210.'),(7147,'150','Synthesis, Characterization and Development of HPLC Method for Clopidogrel Metabolite: Computational Approaches for PKPD and Toxicity Predictions ','Pathade P.A., Kaushik A. and Pawar A.Y. ','Synthesis,-Characterization-and-Development-of-HPLC-Method-for-Clopidogrel-Metabolite-Computational-Approaches-for-PKPD-and-Toxicity-Predictions-119-6308.pdf','',1,'The current research work emphases on synthesis, characterization, and optimization of RP-HPLC method for determination of clopidogrel and its synthesized metabolite 2-oxo-clopidogrel as an impurity simultaneously. Also the subsequent part of the paper is, ADME and toxicity of the 2-oxo-clopidogrel were predicted through different ADME database like SWISS ADME and molesoft. The metabolite 2-oxo-clopidogrel was synthesized in the laboratory and characterized by UV, IR GC/MS, NMR spectroscopy. The method was developed using Kinetex C18, 4.6 mm x 250 mm, 5 µm as stationary phase, mobile phase comprising of acetonitrile (80%): Phosphate buffer 20mM pH 3 (20%) with flow rate 1.0 mL/min, volume 20 µL through a run time of 10 minutes. \r\nThe developed RP-HPLC method underwent validation based on ICH guidelines, demonstrating accuracy, precision, reproducibility, specificity, and robustness. Assessment of toxicity by using computational tools like Swiss tool is reported with the hope of reducing threats.\r\n','Clopidogrel, 2-oxo-clopidogrel, RP-HPLC, SWISS ADME and molesoft','The developed HPLC method is characterized by its simplicity, accuracy, precision, sensitivity, and selectivity for the estimation of clopidogrel and its metabolite, 2-oxo-clopidogrel, which was synthesized and characterized in the laboratory. This method can also be applied to quantify 2-oxo-clopidogrel as an impurity often found in bulk drugs and formulations of clopidogrel.\r\nMoreover, there is a possibility to further optimize the method to enable the accurate quantification of 2-oxo-clopidogrel in biological fluids. This optimization would make the method highly valuable for conducting clinical and bioequivalence studies. To ensure safety, computational tools such as Swiss tool have been utilized to assess the compound\'s toxicity. The objective is to minimize any potential risks associated with the compound through thorough evaluation.\r\n','-','Pathade P.A., Kaushik A. and Pawar A.Y. (2023). Synthesis, Characterization and Development of HPLC Method for Clopidogrel Metabolite: Computational Approaches for PKPD and Toxicity Predictions. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 15(3): 759-770.'),(7148,'162','Estimation of Genetic variability and Response to Selection in Brinjal (Solanum melongena L.)','Sandeep Kumar, G.C. Yadav, Jaswant Prajapati, Lav Kumar, Lokesh Yadav and Anjana C.S. ','Estimation-of-Genetic-variability-and-Response-to-Selection-in-Brinjal-(Solanum-melongena-L.)-Sandeep-Kumar-33.pdf','',1,'The present investigation carried out during autumn winter season 2021-2022 at the MES, Department of Vegetable Science, ANDUA&T, Kumarganj, Ayodhya (U.P.) with the objectives to estimate the genetic variability, heritability in broad sense and genetic advance in percent of mean among the 32 genotypes of brinjal including two checks Pant Rituraj and Pant Samrat. The ANOVA revealed that mean sum of squares due to genotypes was highly significant for all the traits indicating ample variation among the genotypes. The estimates of the PCV were higher than the GCV for all the traits. The highest PCV and GCV were observed for non-reducing sugar followed by reducing sugar, total sugar, no of fruits per plant. High heritability was recorded for all the characters except days to first fruit harvest and TSS. Genetic advance in per cent of mean ranged from 6.6 % to 110.46 %. It was high (>20) in total fruit yield per plant (38.41) and polar diameter of fruit length (38.39). High heritability coupled with high genetic advance (Ga) were recorded for the traits which are average fruit weight total, number of fruits/plant, fruit yield per plant, average fruit weight, total sugar, reducing sugar and non-reducing sugar. Therefore, from the above obtained results it can be concluded that there is great chance of effective crop improvement for greater yield and yield attributing traits.','Brinjal, GCV, PCV, heritability and genetic advance','The results for ANOVA showed that the mean square due to genotype was highly significant for all the characters indicating significant genetic variation which enables us to utilize genotypes in various breeding as well as improvement programmes. The characters showing high heritability coupled with high genetic advance provide a broad way for the improvement in genotypes for specific characters. The information may further help the breeders in formulating appropriate strategy aimed at getting higher yields and character improvement in brinjal.','-','Sandeep Kumar, G.C. Yadav, Jaswant Prajapati, Lav Kumar, Lokesh Yadav and Anjana C.S. (2023). Estimation of Genetic variability and Response to Selection in Brinjal (Solanum melongena L.). Biological Forum – An International Journal, 15(8): 211-214.'),(7149,'162','Effect of herbal additives amla (Emblica officinalis) and giloy (Tinospora cordifolia) on physiological parameters of Magra lambs under semi-intensive management system in the arid zone of Rajasthan','Abhishek Joshi, Nirmala Saini, Arun Kumar Jhirwal, Umesh Kumar Prajapat and S.C. Goswami ','Effect-of-herbal-additives-amla-(Emblica-officinalis)-and-giloy-(Tinospora-cordifolia)-on-physiological-parameters-of-Magra-lambs-under-semi-intensive-management-system-in-Abhishek-Joshi-34.pdf','',1,'The present experiment was conducted in semi-intensive management system to observe the effect of herbal additives amla (Emblica officinalis) and giloy (Tinospora cordifolia) either single or in combination on the physiological parameters of Magra lambs. Twenty eight Magra lambs of 3-4 months of age were selected for conducting the feeding trial in the semi-intensive system for 90 days. The lambs were randomly distributed into four experimental groups of seven lambs in each group in the semi-intensive system in a randomized block design (RBD) in such a manner that the initial body weights were remain similar in all the groups. Herbal feed additive Amla (Emblica officinalis) fruit powder with seed and Giloy (Tinospora cordifolia) stem powder were supplemented at level of 1.5g/kg body weight with concentrate as oral/feed supplemented in T1 and T2 group, respectively except control group and T3 in semi-intensive management system. Group T3 were supplemented with the combination of Amla (Emblica officinalis) fruit powder and Giloy (Tinospora cordifolia) stem powder at the level of 0.75g/kg body weight each with concentrate as oral/feed. At the end of experiment, no significant changes were found in rectal temperature and respiration rate though; they were within normal physiological range. At the end of experiment it appears that incorporation of 1.5g/kg body weight giloy stem powder can be used as a part of the strategy as it is effective to alleviate heat stress in lambs in the semi-intensive system of arid zone of Rajasthan.','Physiological parameters, Magra, Amla, Giloy','It could be concluded that supplementation of the herbal feed additives Amla (Emblica officinalis) and Giloy (Tinospora cordifolia) in the diets of Magra lambs had no adverse effect on physiological parameters in the semi-intensive management system.','-','Abhishek Joshi, Nirmala Saini, Arun Kumar Jhirwal, Umesh Kumar Prajapat and S.C. Goswami (2023). Effect of herbal additives amla (Emblica officinalis) and giloy (Tinospora cordifolia) on physiological parameters of Magra lambs under semi-intensive management system in the arid zone of Rajasthan. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 15(8): 215-218.'),(7150,'162','Bio-Nanotechnological Advances in Sericulture: Applicability of Micrococoons and Silk Proteins','Sangeeta Dash, Mohd Anas, Reddi Gowrisankar and Surekha Dasari','Bio-Nanotechnological-Advances-in-Sericulture-Applicability-of-Micrococoons-and-Silk-Proteins-Sangeeta-Dash-35.pdf','',1,'Biotechnology and Nanotechnology are considered as weapons that can devise constructive solutions to address global issues. The unit production cost of Indian silk is higher as compared to China. Thus, the need of the hour is to devise innovative applications of silk and silk proteins, value addition, byproduct utilisation and diversification thus minimalizing the wastes generated. This will curtail the production costs and make Indian silk cheaper for the consumers to buy in domestic and overseas markets. The unique application of biotechnology in sericulture encompasses the use of transgenic silkworms to generate fine-quality cocoons, bioengineering silk as a bioactive material owing to its strength, biocompatibility, elasticity, robustness, biodegradability, etc. Thus, silk proteins turn out to be an effective biomaterial with multifarious applications in the food and pharmaceutical industries. Micrococoons, inspired by silkworm cocoons can serve as a potent vector for the delivery of useful drugs, proteins, vaccines, genes, and micromolecules. This finds application in the treatment of osteomyelitis and dermal disorders. Owing to its excellent mechanical properties, biocompatibility and low immunogenicity, silk sericin and fibroin have multiple bio-medical applications in cartilage and bone regeneration and tissue engineering. Nanotechnology in sericulture helps to build structures that are crucial for water purification, drug delivery, devising sensors, and optics and photonics. Therefore, the present review highlights the recent advances in comprehensive utilization and diversification of biotechnological and nanotechnological knowledge to devise products of commercial use broadening the sustainability of the sericulture industry.',' Biotechnology, Bioengineering, Micrococoons, Nanotechnology, Sericulture','Silk is a widely used biomaterial owing to its high biocompatibility, biodegradability leading to formation of harmless by-products, excellent mechanical, and tensile properties, low or no immunogenic or inflammatory response, no negative side effects, etc. All these attributes make silk and its proteins a suitable choice for various bio-medical applications such as tissue engineering, bone regeneration, and macromolecule delivery to the target site. Apart from the above-cited advantages, efficiently extracting silk from wastewater effluents curtails the pollution load from the sericultural sector. Sericin and fibroin as mentioned throughout the review have many potential biomedical applications that can be further explored. Silk micrococoons serve as effective vehicles of delivery for genes, proteins, small molecules, drugs, and vaccines. Silk as a bio-active compound also diminishes the instance of various neurodegenerative and ocular disorders. Current research concerning the utility and applicability of silk and secondary products of sericultural industries sheds light on the versatility of silk as a biomaterial. Further research on the utility of silk-based nanostructures in varied sectors can yield economic products of commercial importance and serve as milestone achievements in life science.','-','Sangeeta Dash, Mohd Anas, Reddi Gowrisankar and Surekha Dasari (2023). Bio-Nanotechnological Advances in Sericulture: Applicability of Micrococoons and Silk Proteins. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 15(8): 219-226.'),(7151,'162','An assessment of the effect of herbal additives amla (Emblica officinalis) and giloy (Tinospora cordifolia) on wool yield and quality of Magra lambs in the semi-intensive management system under arid zone of western Rajasthan','Abhishek Joshi, Nirmala Saini, Arun Kumar Jhirwal, R.K. Dhuria and S.C. Goswami','An-assessment-of-the-effect-of-herbal-additives-amla-(Emblica-officinalis)-and-giloy-(Tinospora-cordifolia)-on-wool-yield-and-quality-of-Magra-lambs-in-the-semi-intensive-management-syst-Abhishek-Joshi-36.pdf','',1,'The present experiment was conducted in semi-intensive management system to observe the effect of herbal additives amla (Emblica officinalis) and giloy (Tinospora cordifolia) either single or in combination on the wool yield and wool quality of Magra lambs. Twenty eight Magra lambs of 3-4 months of age were selected for conducting the feeding trial in semi-intensive system for 90 days. The lambs were randomly distributed into four experimental groups of seven lambs in each group in semi-intensive management system in a randomized block design (RBD) in such a manner that the initial body weights were remain similar in all the groups. Herbal feed additive Amla (Emblica officinalis) fruit powder with seed and Giloy (Tinospora cordifolia) stem powder were supplemented at level of 1.5g/kg body weight with concentrate as oral/feed supplemented in T1 and T2 group, respectively except control group and T3 in semi-intensive management system. Group T3 were supplemented with the combination of Amla (Emblica officinalis) fruit powder and Giloy (Tinospora cordifolia) stem powder at the level of 0.75g/kg body weight each with concentrate as oral/feed. The findings of the present study revealed that wool yield and other wool characteristics were not affected in all treatment groups under semi-intensive system by the supplementation of herbal feed additives in lamb ration but numerically highest improved in Giloy treated group.','Wool, Magra, Amla, Giloy, semi-intensive management system','The conclusion of this study is that many other factors such as genetics may have played a role in the results. Further research may be needed to explore alternative methods of improving wool production in lambs.','-','Abhishek Joshi, Nirmala Saini, Arun Kumar Jhirwal, R.K. Dhuria and S.C. Goswami (2023). An assessment of the effect of herbal additives amla (Emblica officinalis) and giloy (Tinospora cordifolia) on wool yield and quality of Magra lambs in the semi-intensive management system under arid zone of western Rajasthan. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 15(8): 227-230.'),(7152,'163','Melatonin Seed Priming Improves Chlorophyll content under High Temperature Stress by Modulating Heat Responsive Genes in Wheat (Triticum aestivum L.)','Shaziya Sultana and Sharmistha Barthakur','Melatonin-Seed-Priming-Improves-Chlorophyll-content-under-High-Temperature-Stress-by-Modulating-Heat-Responsive-Genes-in-Wheat-(Triticum-aestivum-L.)-SHAZIYA-SULTANA-59.pdf','',1,'Extreme temperature swings and a sharp decline in crop productivity brought on by global climate change contribute to global food insecurity. One of the biggest barriers to plant growth and development is high temperature, profoundly impact plant physiology, biochemistry, and molecular processes. Biostimulants melatonin (MT), which serves as a \"defence molecule\" to protect the body, have a multifunctional purpose. Melatonin (MT) is a pleiotropic signaling molecule which positively modulates the effects of different environmental stressors including heat stress (HS). Heat stress Here, to analyze the effect of melatonin in modulating the chlorophyll content we carried out transcript expression profiling of heat marker genes heat shock protein 70 (Hsp70) and antioxidant enzyme gene superoxide dismutase (SOD) under ambient as well as high temperature stress. Seeds of wheat cv HD2967 were primed with a series of melatonin at MT1 (15 mgl-1), MT2 (30 mgl-1), MT3 (50 mgl-1), MT4 (60 mgl-1), and MT5 (75 mgl-1) and water alone as control. MT3 (50 mgl-1), and MT4 (60 mgl-1) remarkably improved the chlorophyll content. Further, seeds primed with (50 mgl-1) were given heat stress at 37°C for 4hrs and analysed for heat effect on chlorophyll. Results show the effectiveness of MT in enhancing chlorophyll content and induced expression of heat related genes under ambient as well as after high temperature exposure. ','Melatonin, Seed priming, Wheat, Chlorophyll, germination, HSP70, SOD','Based on the experimental findings, we conclude that melatonin seed priming differentially regulated and positively improved the germination indices and other physiological processes. Pre-treatment of melatonin at 50 mgl-1 and 60mgl-1 was found significant in improving chlorophyl content. Our study concluded that melatonin has potential role to improve chlorophyll content under different concentration with 50mgl-1 being an optimum value to sustain photosynthetic efficiency. At the molecular level transcript expression of Hsp70 showed similar level under different melatonin concentration. At the specific concentrations of melatonin (50mgl-1 and 60mgl-1) can positively improve chlorophyll concentration. The seeds primed with 50mgl-1 was given heat stress and further compared with control seedlings and positive effect of melatonin was recorded. The expression of SOD enzyme gene, an antioxidant enzyme was increased under melatonin priming as compared to no priming under heat stress condition. Chlorophyll content also improved in primed condition under heat stress, hence improving the photosynthetic capacity. This study provides a valuable base in showing the protective role melatonin in germination and seedling growth of wheat under normal and heat stress environment. ','-','Shaziya Sultana and Sharmistha Barthakur (2023). Melatonin Seed Priming Improves Chlorophyll content under High Temperature Stress by Modulating Heat Responsive Genes in Wheat (Triticum aestivum L.). Biological Forum – An International Journal, 15(5a): 362-367.'),(7153,'162','Effect of Integrated Nutrient Management on Quality of Mango cv. Kesar ','Z. K. Patel, R. V. Tank, N. B. Patel and J. J. Patel ','Effect-of-Integrated-Nutrient-Management-on-Quality-of-Mango-cv.-Kesar-ZK-Patel-37.pdf','',1,'The continuous and excessive use of inorganic fertilizers as source of nutrients in imbalanced proportion to increase the fruit production has created serious problems, causing economic inefficiency, damage to the environment and in certain situations. Poor purchasing capacity and negative effect of chemical fertilizers on soil health has led to intensified attempts for the use of bio-fertilizers and organic matter beside inorganic fertilizers. These all factors have increased the interest of farmers in adopting the Integrated Nutrient Management for production of fruit crops. Thus, field experiment on effect of integrated nutrient management on quality of mango cv. Kesar was conducted during the years 2020-21 and 2021-22 at Regional Horticultural Research Station, ASPEE College of Horticulture and Forestry, Navsari Agricultural University, Navsari, (Gujarat). The experiment was laid out in Completely Randomized Design which comprising seven treatments namely, T1: 100 % RDF (NPK+FYM), T2: 100 % NPK soil analysis basis, T3: T2 +100 kg FYM tree-1, T4: 75 % RDF + 25 % RDN (Biocompost), T5: 50 % RDF + 25 % RDN (Biocompost), T6: 75 % RDF + 25 % RDN (Neemcake), T7: 50 % RDF + 25 % RDN (Neemcake). All the seven treatments were repeated thrice. The results indicate that maximum TSS (18.53, 18.63 and 18.58 ºBrix), reducing sugars (6.53, 6.40 and 6.47 %), total sugar (15.20, 15.30 and 15.25 %), non-reducing sugars (7.66, 8.90, 8.80 %), ascorbic acid content (44.07, 45.13, 44.60 mg 100 g 1), β-carotene content (599.27, 575.53, 587.40 µg 100 g-1) and shelf-life (16.27, 18.47 and 17.37 days) as well as minimum acidity (0.256, 0.259, 0.258 %) with the application of 100 % NPK soil analysis basis + 100 kg FYM tree-1. It was at par with treatment T4 [75 % RDF + 25 % RDN (Biocompost)].','Nutrient management, neemcake, biocompost, biofertilizers','From the two years of field study, it can be concluded that soil application of 100 % NPK soil analysis basis + 100 kg FYM kg tree-1 can improved quality of fruit in mango cv. Kesar. However, T4 [75 % RDF + 25 % RDN (Biocompost)] also stood statistically equivalent with T3 in most of the quality parameters.','-','Z. K. Patel, R. V. Tank, N. B. Patel and J. J. Patel (2023). Effect of Integrated Nutrient Management on Quality of Mango cv. Kesar. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 15(8): 231-236.'),(7154,'162','Genetic Divergence and Character Association Studies on Germplasm Accessions of Rice (Oryza sativa L.)','Kurada Satya Rama Harika, Deepak Gauraha and Abhinav Sao','Genetic-Divergence-and-Character-Association-Studies-on-Germplasm-Accessions-of-Rice-(Oryza-sativa-L.)-Kurada-Satya-Rama-Harika-38.pdf','',1,'In this study, fifty rice germplasm accessions were used along with five checks, namely Dagad deshi, RRF-127, RRF-140, DRR Dhan 42 and MTU 1010, for evaluating genetic variability, heritability and genetic advance. The study was conducted at Germplasm section, Indira Gandhi Krishi Vishwavidyalaya, Raipur during kharif 2022. The findings of the analysis of variance revealed extremely large genotype differences for each of the 19 quantitative characteristics under investigation. High PCV and GCV values were observed for number of effective tillers per plant, number of filled grains per panicle, number of unfilled grains per panicle, grain yield per plant, biological yield per plant and harvest index. Heritability values were found to be high for all the characters. High heritability with high genetic advance shown by characters such as days to 50% flowering, plant height, number of effective tillers per plant, number of filled grains per panicle, 100 seed weight, flag leaf length, flag leaf breadth, grain yield per plant, biological yield per plant, harvest index, paddy breadth, paddy L/B ratio and brown rice L/B ratio. This suggested that the inheritance of these features was impacted by additive gene activity, indicating additive gene action.','Rice, PCV, GCV, heritability, germplasm accessions and genetic advance','The results of the analysis of variance showed that there were extremely significant genotype differences for each of the quantitative traits. In the study of PCV and GCV, number of effective tillers per plant, number of filled and unfilled grains per panicle, grain yield per plant, biological yield per plant, and harvest index are characteristics with high PCV and GCV values. High heritability with high genetic advance shown by characters such as days to 50% flowering, plant height, number of effective tillers per plant, number of filled grains per panicle, number of effective tillers per plant, 100 seed weight, flag leaf length, flag leaf breadth, grain yield per plant, biological yield per plant, harvest index, paddy breadth, paddy L/B ratio and brown rice L/B ratio. The study showed an additive gene effect for the above characters.','-','Kurada Satya Rama Harika, Deepak Gauraha and Abhinav Sao (2023). Genetic Divergence and Character Association Studies on Germplasm Accessions of Rice (Oryza Sativa L.). Biological Forum – An International Journal, 15(8): 237-243.'),(7155,'162','Study the distribution and damage potential of Spodoptera frugiperda on Maize in Southern Rajasthan','Ankur, M.K. Mahla, Vikram, Tanmaya Kumar Bhoi, S. Ramesh Babu, Hemant Swami, Anil Vyas and Gaurang Chhangani ','Study-the-distribution-and-damage-potential-of-Spodoptera-frugiperda-on-Maize-in-Southern-Rajasthan-Ankur-40.pdf','',1,'FAW was an invasive pest and destructive as reported in Southern Rajasthan having high fecundity and have the ability of long distance travel which was most challenging. The survey on incidence and damage potential of S. frugiperda was carried out in maize growing area of Southern Rajasthan during July to October 2021 and 2022. Infested fields by S. frugiperda were found 100 per cent in both years. infestation by S. frugiperda was found 8 to 19.33 and 11 to 23 per cent with the mean 15.39 and 16.37 per cent or visual leaf damage rating (Davis scale 0-9) was 3 to 7 with the mean of 5.18 and 5.11, respectively in both years. The maximum infestation by S. frugiperda was recorded in Pratapgarh (17.94%) and lowest in Udaipur (12.65%) during 2021 and During 2022, the highest infestation by S. frugiperda was recorded in Pratapgarh (19.28%) followed lowest in Banswara (13.67%). The maximum visual leaf damage rating was observed in Rajsamand (6) and lowest in Udaipur (4.43) during 2021 and during 2022, maximum visual leaf damage rating was observed in Pratapgarh (6) and minimum in Rajsamand (4.25). On the basis experimental result infested prone area has been marked from southern rajasthan for applying control measure.','Maize, Survey, Incidence, Per cent infestation, Davis Scale, FAW','Highest per cent infestation was recorded in Pratapgarh and lowest in Udaipur both 2021 and 2022, respectively so on basis of both year damage per cent is less than previous years due to establish their natural enemy and heavy rain or late sowing.','-','Ankur, M.K. Mahla, Vikram, Tanmaya Kumar Bhoi, S. Ramesh Babu, Hemant Swami, Anil Vyas and Gaurang Chhangani (2023). Study the distribution and damage potential of Spodoptera frugiperda on Maize in Southern Rajasthan. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 15(8): 249-254.'),(7156,'162','Spatial Variability Mapping of Soil Properties in the Upper Banas River Basin using Geographic Information Systems (GIS) Techniques','Kishan Damor, K. K. Yadav, Bharti Yadav, Shalini Sharma, Yash Vardhan Singh, Kriti Sharma and Yuvraj Singh Chundawat ','Spatial-Variability-Mapping-of-Soil-Properties-in-the-Upper-Banas-River-Basin-using-Geographic-Information-Systems-(GIS)-Techniques-Kishan-Damor-41.pdf','',1,': A survey was conducted during the pre-monsoon season of the year 2021 in the Upper Banas River Basin to map the spatial variability of soil properties using Geographic Information Systems (GIS) techniques. The study area covered various tehsils in the Rajasthan state, India. Soil samples were collected and analyzed for pH, electrical conductivity (EC), soil organic carbon (SOC), calcium carbonate (CaCO3), available nitrogen (N), phosphorus (P), potassium (K), and sulfur (S) content. The results indicated that the soil in the area was neutral to slightly alkaline in reaction, with low salinity levels. The majority of soils had sufficient organic carbon, medium to high calcium carbonate content, and medium levels of available nitrogen and phosphorus. Available potassium was generally at a medium level, while available sulfur was low in most areas. The generated soil fertility maps can be valuable tools for optimizing nutrient management and promoting sustainable farming practices in the region. These findings provide essential insights for precision agriculture, allowing farmers to tailor their nutrient application strategies based on specific soil conditions. By leveraging GIS technology and the comprehensive soil fertility maps, stakeholders can make informed decisions to enhance crop productivity while minimizing environmental impacts.','Soil properties, Geographic Information Systems (GIS), Upper Banas River Basin, pre-monsoon season, nutrient management','In the context of the Upper Banas River Basin, the predominant soil reactions were found to be neutral to slightly alkaline. The collected soil samples consistently displayed an electrical conductivity (EC) reading of less than 2 dS m-1, suggesting the absence of significant salinity concerns across the area. Within this framework, the organic carbon content of the majority of soils was determined to be satisfactory. Calcium carbonate levels ranged from medium to high, indicating a notable presence. Available nitrogen and phosphorus content generally exhibited low to medium concentrations, while available potassium content was more evenly distributed within a medium range. The available sulfur content, however, tended to be comparatively low. The generated soil maps offer practical utility by delineating cohesive soil units, thereby assisting farmers in making informed decisions regarding the appropriate type and quantity of macro-nutrients to apply. This targeted approach aims to optimize economic outcomes by tailoring nutrient management strategies to the unique demands of each specific location. The incorporation of geo-referenced sampling sites using GPS technology enables recurrent visits to monitor shifts in nutrient status over time. This innovative methodology surpasses the limitations of conventional sampling techniques, providing a robust and accurate assessment of nutrient dynamics in the region.','-','Kishan Damor, K. K. Yadav, Bharti Yadav, Shalini Sharma, Yash Vardhan Singh, Kriti Sharma and Yuvraj Singh Chundawat (2023). Spatial Variability Mapping of Soil Properties in the Upper Banas River Basin using Geographic Information Systems (GIS) Techniques. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 15(8): 255-262.'),(7157,'163','Serum Lipid Profile in Menopause and Corrective effect of Hormone Replacement Therapy A Study based on Bilaspur District Chhattisgarh','Seema Mishra','Serum-Lipid-Profile-in-Menopause-and-Corrective-effect-of-Hormone-Replacement-Therapy-A-Study-based-on-Bilaspur-District-Chhattisgarh-Seema-Mishra-60.pdf','',1,'Menopause, defined as the last menstrual period in a woman\'s life, undergoes many significant changes called \"climacteric changes\". These changes are mainly caused by a lack of estrogen due to ovarian failure. The climacteric changes includes vasomotor hot flashes, sweating, vaginitis and vaginal atrophy, dyspareunia and loss of libido, mental dysfunction-loss of concentration, sleep disturbances, headache, mood swings, depression and loss of energy, altered skin and hair, skin and hair loss. An abnormal, cardio-protective lipid profile due to decreased levels of sex hormones—estrogen and progesterone—contributes to a dramatic increase in the incidence of ischemic heart disease and coronary heart disease in postmenopausal women. Coronary heart disease (CHD) is ten times more common in men than in women up to age 45. Estrogen and, to a lesser extent, progesterone also significantly reduce plasma cholesterol levels, possibly due to the action of these female hormones on lipoproteins. Plasma cholesterol levels are lower in women aged 20-45 than in men of the same age. If both ovaries are removed before the age of menopause, this is often followed by elevated plasma cholesterol and a greatly increased incidence of heart disease. The resulting dyslipidemia is one of the main causes of heart disease, especially ischemic heart disease in post-menopuased women. This was a Community based Case-control study on post-menopuased women including analysis of lipid profile and effect of HRT on serum lipid profile. Menopause was observed as a significant etio-pathological cause of dyslipidemia in studied post-menopaused subjects and positive corrective effect of HRT was seen on their lipid profile. ','Menopause, Dyslipidemia, Hormone Replacement Therapy, Cardiovascular Disease, Cholesterol, Lipid Profile','When the lipid profiles of premenopausal and postmenopausal women were compared, in all four parameters, serum total cholesterol showed significant differences between the two groups. The same pattern was seen with triglyceride levels, but both groups showed a marked difference in their high-density lipoprotein fraction and low-density lipoprotein fraction. HDL was found to be 0.29 mg/ml in the post-menopausal group, which was significantly lower than the HDL level found in the pre-menopausal group, which was 0.59 mg/ml. The LDL fraction showed the opposite trend, being lower in the pre-menopausal group (0.54mg/ml) and relatively higher in the postmenopausal group (1.26 mg/ml). A significant difference was found between the two groups, which was significant at both the 1% and 5% levels. Compared to the premenopausal group, the postmenopausal group showed a 48% increase in the cholesterol fraction, a 52% increase in the triglyceride fraction, a 51% increase in the HDL fraction, and a 131% increase in the LDL fraction. High levels of HDL is cardio-protective in pre-menopuased women, its a good cholesterol that cleans blood vessels, while LDL on the other hand causes narrowing of blood vessels and leads to cardiac ischemia and eventual arrest. This healthy trend is seen in pre-menopausal women with higher HDL and lower LDL and abnormal lipid profile with lower HDL and higher LDL in postmenopausal women is observed. In one study it was concluded that, this pattern of lipid profile composition can be dangerous because it has an inherent potential to cause heart attacks (Almenar et al., 1997).\r\nTotal cholesterol increases in postmenopausal women, probably due to the lack of estrogen and progesterone in those women. (Torosyan et al., 2022) similarly, changes in HDL showed a cardio-negative trend after menopause. A significant decrease in this good cholesterol has been reported after menopause. Triglyceride fraction was not significantly different between the two groups. The same observations were noted by the study done by Jeong & Kim (2022). All these changes in the profile after menopause makes women more prone to cardiovascular diseases, especially ischemic diseases. Our study showed that the presence of enough female hormones—estrogen and progesterone in the body of pre-menopausal women may have a protective effect against heart problems by influencing the lipid profile. This may be the reason that in the experimental group of 66 postmenopausal women, 21 (32%) reported some degree of cardiac problems, mainly cardiac ischemia, while in the same number of pre-menopausal group (66), only 3 women showed this trend. Out of 66 (4.54%) were reported to have mild cardiac disorder. \r\nBy HRT, our studies further support the findings that the estrogen plays a very important role in preventing cardiac problems, possibly due to preventive role of feminine hormones against dyslipidemias (Sreeniwas & Sinha 2020). \r\nParticipants who were taking oral hormones showed no significant difference after therapy. Only significant changes were observed in LDL fraction. Oral preparations are not preferred mostly, because they first pass the liver and intestines based metabolism and destroyed to some extent (Liver Tox: Clinical and Research Information on Drug-Induced Liver Injury. (2012). Some previous studies have shown that the oral form increases renin substrate production (particularly dangerous for hypertensive participants) and increases thromboembolic disease in people with a positive history (Whitehead, 2006).\r\nInterestingly, the present study found the transdermal preparation more effective in improving serum lipid conditions. It significantly alters all serum lipid parameters except triglyceride in a cardio-friendly manner. Transdermal and sub-cutaneous implants may more closely reflect endogenous hormone activity. This finding matches with the work of Gregersen et al. (2019). Subcutaneous estrogen produces a plasma estrogen profile that mimics the ovulatory cycle. Thus the choice of estrogen depends on indication, risk, convenience and patient compliance. Our data provide evidence consistent with previous findings that HRT improves quality and duration of life in postmenopausal women. A lower incidence of stroke and myocardial infarction is also a great benefit. Altering the lipid profile in such a cardio-friendly manner showed that the overall effect of HRT was beneficial to the heart (Alwers et al., 1999).\r\n','-','Seema Mishra (2023). Serum Lipid Profile in Menopause and Corrective effect of Hormone Replacement Therapy A Study based on Bilaspur District Chhattisgarh. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 15(5a): 368-376.'),(7158,'162','Domestication, Proliferation and Hive Modelling of Feral Stingless Bee (Tetragonula iridipennis Smith) Colonies','B. Saai Vignesh, B. Anujaa, K. Suresh, R. Elamparithi, S. Selvakumar and R. Ramesh Kumar ','Domestication,-Proliferation-and-Hive-Modelling-of-Feral-Stingless-Bee-(Tetragonula-iridipennis-Smith)-Colonies-B-Saai-Vignesh-42.pdf','',1,'Tetragonula iridipennis Smith is the most abundant stingless bee in India. Tetragonula-keeping (Meliponiculture) for colony and honey makes it profitable because of weedy propagation in stingless bees. For the rearing of stingless bees, seven hive models (wooden box, rectangular wooden box, bamboo logs, PVC hive, mud pot, coconut shell) with different dimensions were chosen. Out of seven, the bamboo logs with a 30cm length and cavity diameter of 6.5 – 7.5 cm showed better brood development, less pest and diseases and also easy honey extraction. The standard brood transfer method of colony capturing is easy to follow in abandoned house walls, iron pipes, etc. Feral colonies present in the undisturbed habitat like living houses, wells, etc., are transferred by eduction method with substratum like plastic bottles, mud pots and coconut shells with plastic tubes as temporary hive setups. Furtherance of colony transfer happens in coconut shells with better colony development and speedy separation within two months interval. The count of stingless bee colonies is reducing due to lack of nesting habitat as the traditional human living habits (mud house, huts, etc.) are depleting. Its quite challenging to transfer the colony from feral nest to the domesticating hive. In this study, different hive models were used to transfer and domesticate the feral colonies with minimal duration which will help the beekeepers and researchers in domestication.','Tetragonula, colony separation, eduction, hive models','The aforementioned strategies were effective in the domestication of colonies, appropriate conservation, and ensuring the survival of Tetragonula colonies. Among the various techniques, wooden boxes performed well in terms of brood development, easy honey harvesting, and pest and disease resistance. The rate of domestication was good when colonies relocated from pillars to pots with plastic bottles, and it was even better when colonies were transferred from wall to coconut shell.','-','B. Saai Vignesh, B. Anujaa, K. Suresh, R. Elamparithi, S. Selvakumar and R. Ramesh Kumar (2023). Domestication, Proliferation and Hive Modelling of Feral Stingless Bee (Tetragonula iridipennis Smith) Colonies. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 15(8): 263-266.'),(7159,'162','An Unusual Presentation of Rabies with Horner’s Syndrome in a Dog','P.K. Ramkumar, N. Premalatha, M. Saravanan, S. Senthil Kumar, R. Velusamy and P.C. Prabhu ','An-Unusual-Presentation-of-Rabies-with-Horner’s-Syndrome-in-a-Dog-PK-Ramkumar-43.pdf','',1,'A nondescript male dog, around one year old, was brought with a history of loss of appetite and limping in the right front leg. The dog had not received any vaccinations and had been treated previously by a local veterinarian for the loss of appetite. During the clinical examination, the dog showed difficulty in swallowing, anisocoria, protrusion of the third eyelid, miosis in right eye. The dog also had mild lameness in the right front leg, but no visible injuries were observed. Radiograph was taken, but it did not reveal any foreign bodies and no osseous involvement was found. The dog was kept under observation and gradually developed paralysis and collapsed. A postmortem examination was conducted, and Negri bodies were found. This case was confirmed as rabies, which had presented with an unusual Horner\'s sign.','Horner’s syndrome, Rabies','This research underscores the importance of recognizing the possibility of rabies as a potential explanation when Horner\'s syndrome is evident. Further investigation is required to understand the underlying reasons for the occurrence of these atypical symptoms. Additionally, confirmation is needed to determine whether these signs are associated with the typical rabies strain or if they might be linked to different variants of the virus.','-','P.K. Ramkumar, N. Premalatha, M. Saravanan, S. Senthil Kumar, R. Velusamy and P.C. Prabhu (2023). An Unusual Presentation of Rabies with Horner’s Syndrome in a Dog. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 15(8): 267-269.'),(7160,'162','An Unusual Presentation of Rabies with Horner’s Syndrome in a Dog','P.K. Ramkumar, N. Premalatha, M. Saravanan, S. Senthil Kumar, R. Velusamy and P.C. Prabhu ','An-Unusual-Presentation-of-Rabies-with-Horner’s-Syndrome-in-a-Dog-PK-Ramkumar-43.pdf','',1,'A nondescript male dog, around one year old, was brought with a history of loss of appetite and limping in the right front leg. The dog had not received any vaccinations and had been treated previously by a local veterinarian for the loss of appetite. During the clinical examination, the dog showed difficulty in swallowing, anisocoria, protrusion of the third eyelid, miosis in right eye. The dog also had mild lameness in the right front leg, but no visible injuries were observed. Radiograph was taken, but it did not reveal any foreign bodies and no osseous involvement was found. The dog was kept under observation and gradually developed paralysis and collapsed. A postmortem examination was conducted, and Negri bodies were found. This case was confirmed as rabies, which had presented with an unusual Horner\'s sign.','Horner’s syndrome, Rabies','This research underscores the importance of recognizing the possibility of rabies as a potential explanation when Horner\'s syndrome is evident. Further investigation is required to understand the underlying reasons for the occurrence of these atypical symptoms. Additionally, confirmation is needed to determine whether these signs are associated with the typical rabies strain or if they might be linked to different variants of the virus.','-','P.K. Ramkumar, N. Premalatha, M. Saravanan, S. Senthil Kumar, R. Velusamy and P.C. Prabhu (2023). An Unusual Presentation of Rabies with Horner’s Syndrome in a Dog. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 15(8): 267-269.'),(7161,'162','Assessment of Mepiquat Chloride in Hastening the Maturity of Groundnut','Mamta Bajya, Pushp Sharma and Shelly Nayyar Dhaliwal ','Assessment-of-Mepiquat-Chloride-in-Hastening-the-Maturity-of-Groundnut-Mamta-Bajya-44.pdf','',1,'Groundnut (Arachis hypogaea L.) oilseed crop in India also known as \"the poor man\'s nut\" or \"the king of vegetable oilseeds where it ranks first in terms of area and second in terms of output after soybean. Mepiquat chloride (MC) is an important growth retardant inhibits vegetative growth and accelerates the development of reproductive parts by reducing plant height, thereby decreasing the distance between the source and sink, resulting in better translocation of photosynthetic into developing pods, which is expected to improve groundnut harvest index. Hence the present study, was conducted on three groundnut genotypes viz. TG37A, J87 and SG99 to observed the difference of growth retardant mepiquat chloride, water spray. The growth retardant, mepiquat chloride @700ppm significantly reduced days to initiation of flowering, 50% flowering, completion of flowering and days to maturity for whereas SPAD value increased after growth retarded treatment in all three genotypes. Similarly, Physiological data recorded at 60 and 90 DAS revealed that plant height, root length, root weight was decreased with mepiquat chloride@700 ppm. However, number of branches, nodules number, and nodules weight, dry weight of root, leaves and shoot were more with mepiquat chloride@700 ppm over control. Source-sink relationship revealed that SG99 registered with higher Source-sink relationship at 60 DAS and J87 at 100 DAS. Pod yield, shelling percentage, and kernel yield, kernel per pod were also increased after treatment over control also added by 3.6 % increase in 100 kernel weight mepiquat@700 ppm. ','Groundnut, Mepiquat chloride, SG-99, TG37A, J87, Yield trait','Mepiquat chloride (MC) is an important growth retardant inhibits vegetative growth and accelerates the development of reproductive parts by reducing plant height, thereby decreasing the distance between the source and sink, resulting in better translocation of photosynthetic into developing pods, which is expected to improve groundnut harvest index. Hence the present study, was conducted on three groundnut genotypes viz. TG37A, J87 and SG99 to observed the difference of growth retardant mepiquat chloride, water spray. The growth retardant, mepiquat chloride @700ppm significantly reduced days to initiation of flowering, 50% flowering, completion of flowering and days to maturity for whereas SPAD value increased after growth retarded treatment in all three genotypes.','-','Mamta Bajya, Pushp Sharma and Shelly Nayyar Dhaliwal (2023). Assessment of Mepiquat Chloride in Hastening the Maturity of Groundnut. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 15(8): 270-277.'),(7162,'162','Impact of Herbicides on Yield and Economics of Clusterbean','Hitesh Borana, Ishwar Singh, U.N. Shukla and Moola Ram','Impact-of-Herbicides-on-Yield-and-Economics-of-Clusterbean-Hitesh-Borana-45.pdf','',1,'Managing weeds in clusterbean by cultural practices, time consuming, expensive and laborious. These techniques are time-consuming and financially demanding, they are effective. The utilization of selective pre-emergence herbicides like pendimethalin and its ready mixed form, is a common practice for early-stage weed control, however this allows weeds to emerge at later stages, particularly in the case of clusterbean. Hence, the current study was designed and executed during the kharif season at the Agricultural Research Station, Mandor, Jodhpur, Rajasthan, India, during the rainy season of 2018. The primary objective of this study was to assess the impact of herbicides application on the yield and economics of clusterbean. The experimental design employed was a randomized block design (RBD) with three replications. The experiment consisted of ten treatments, designated as follows: W1 - weedy check, W2 - weed-free, W3 - pendimethalin at 750 g/ha as pre-emergence (PE), W4 - imazethapyr at 40 g/ha (early post-emergence), W5 - pendimethalin + imazethapyr at 750 g/ha (PE), W6 - imazethapyr + imazamox at 50 g/ha (early post-emergence), W7 - pendimethalin at 750 g/ha (PE) + 1 hand weeding (HW) at 25 days after sowing (DAS), W8 - imazethapyr at 40 g/ha (early post-emergence) + 1 HW at 35 DAS, W9 - pendimethalin + imazethapyr at 750 g/ha (PE) + 1 HW at 25 DAS, and W10 - imazethapyr + imazamox at 50 g/ha (early post-emergence) + 1 HW at 35 DAS. Among the various treatments, significantly higher seed yield was obtained with the application of imazethapyr + imazamox at 50 g/ha combined with one hand weeding at 35 DAS. This treatment also resulted in the highest net return (₹49,693/ha) and benefit-cost ratio (B:C ratio) of 3.23. Similarly, positive outcomes in terms of net return and B:C ratio were achieved with the combination of imazethapyr + imazamox at 50 g/ha + 1 HW at 35 DAS followed by imazethapyr at 40 g/ha + 1 HW at 35 DAS. These findings underscore the positive impact of certain herbicidal treatments on clusterbean yield and economic parameters. ','Clusterbean, net return, profitability and yield','Early post-emergence application of imazethapyr + imazamox at 50 g/ha + 1 HW at 35 DAS recorded higher seed yield and net return of clusterbean followed by imazethapyr at 40 g/ha + 1 HW at 35 DAS.','-','Hitesh Borana, Ishwar Singh, UN Shukla and Moola Ram (2023). Impact of Herbicides on Yield and Economics of Clusterbean. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 15(8): 278-281.'),(7163,'162','Study of Genetic Variance in Yield Contributing Traits of Rice (Oryza sativa L.)','Biswajit Sahoo, Sandeep Bhandarkar and Ramlakhan Verma ','Study-of-genetic-variance-in-Yield-contributing-traits-of-Rice-(Oryza-sativa-L.)-Biswajit-Sahoo-46.pdf','',1,'Rice (Oryza sativa L.) is one of the major food crops, feeding more than half of the world\'s population. It needs to enhance the rice production by 35% to meet the food demand of growing population. Grain yield in rice can be induced by utilizing the genetically diverse lines/parent having higher yield potential, resistant against different biotic and abiotic stresses in the crossing programme. The study was conducted in Kharif 2016 and Rabi 2016-17 at the Research and Instructional Farm, Indira Gandhi Krishi Vishwavidyalaya (IGKV), Raipur, Chhattisgarh and Kharif 2017 at Research Farm of National Rice Research Institute (NRRI), Cuttack, Odisha (India) to identify the genetic diverse lines. 10 rice parental genotypes, Chandrahasini, Samleshwari, Durgeshwari, IC-134022, IC-388728, IC-389860, IC-390376, IC-548384, Indira Barani Dhan1, IRHTN-105 and seven F3-F4 populations were taken for the study of genetic diversity e.g., spikelet fertility, test weight, Grain shape, L/B ratio and grain yield per plant in rice. It was reported that out of 306 genotypes, 5 genotypes having more than 92% spikelet fertility. 9 genotypes having 35.0g test weight, 9 genotypes having 37.18g/plant grain yield. 24 genotypes were having grain length 10.72 mm whereas 28 genotypes having grain length/breadth ratio (2.59). Hence, based on the results obtained in the present study the maximizing genetic gain in breeding population can be inferred to be playing important role in further enhancement in farm productivity of rice. ','Genetic Diversity, Genotype, Grain Shape, Test weight, Spikelet fertility, L/B ratio','In breeding population (306 genotypes), vast genetic diversity for all the studied traits was reported. Several derivatives were reported to have more than 90% spikelets fertility amongst genotypes (IC-548384 × Chandrahasini) 4, (IC-548384 × Chandrahasini) 9, (IC-548384 × Chandrahasini) 33, (IC390376 × Chandrahasini) 25, (IC-390376 × Samleshwari) 35 and Samleshwari were found with more than 92% fertility percentage. Test-weight is major predictor of milling yield in rice recorded vast genetic diversity amongst breeding lines, genotype (Indira Barani Dhan 1 × IRHTN-105) 1705, (Indira Barani Dhan 1 × IRHTN-105) 1706, (Indira Barani Dhan 1 × IRHTN-105) 1707, (Indira Barani Dhan 1 × IRHTN-105) 1708, (Indira Barani Dhan 1 × IRHTN-105) 1709, (Indira Barani Dhan 1 × IRHTN-105) 1710, (Indira Barani Dhan 1 × IRHTN-105) 1711, (Indira Barani Dhan 1 × IRHTN-105) 1714 and (Indira Barani Dhan 1 × IRHTN-105) 1715 were recorded 35.0g test weight. Amongst breeding lines, 9 were found to have maximized genetic gain able to produce 37.18g/plant yield. \r\nBreeding population also have great genetic diversity for grain size, 24 genotypes (IC-548384 × Chandrahasini) 5, (IC-390376 × Chandrahasini) 1, (IC390376 × Chandrahasini) 4, (IC-390376 × Chandrahasini) 14, (IC-390376 × Chandrahasini) 22, (IC-390376 × Chandrahasini) 41, (IC-390376 × Chandrahasini) 42, (IC-390376 × Samleshwari) 12, (IC-390376 × Samleshwari) 13, (IC-390376 × Samleshwari) 16, (IC-390376 × Samleshwari) 38, (IC-134022 × Durgeshwari) 3, (IC134022 × Durgeshwari) 10, (IC-134022 × Durgeshwari) 8, (IC-134022 × Durgeshwari) 19, (IC-388728 × Chandrahasini) 12, (IC-388728 × Chandrahasini) 18, (IC-388728 × Chandrahasini) 19, (Indira Barani Dhan 1 × IRHTN-105) 1706, (Indira Barani Dhan 1 × IRHTN-105) 1707, (Indira Barani Dhan 1 × IRHTN-105) 1708, (Indira Barani Dhan 1 × IRHTN-105) 1709, (Indira Barani Dhan 1 × IRHTN-105) 1710 and (Indira Barani Dhan 1 × IRHTN-105) 1714 has recorded grain length of 10.72 mm whereas, however, breeding lines reported to have 28 genotypes had grain length/breadth ratio (2.59) more accepted in the country.\r\n','-','Biswajit Sahoo, Sandeep Bhandarkar and Ramlakhan Verma (2023). Study of genetic variance in Yield contributing traits of Rice (Oryza sativa L.). Biological Forum – An International Journal, 15(8): 281-292.'),(7164,'162','Efficacy of Herbicides for Weed Control in Kharif Groundnut [Arachis hypogaea (L.)]\r\n','Priyanka, M. L. Mehriya and U. N. Shukla ','Efficacy-of-Herbicides-for-Weed-Control-in-Kharif-Groundnut-Priyanka-47.pdf','',1,'A field experiment was conducted at Agricultural Research Station, Mandor, Agriculture University, Jodhpur during Kharif, 2019 to identify the efficacy of herbicides to managing weeds and increase yield of kharif groundnut [Arachis hypogaea (L.)]. An experiment was laid out in randomized block design (RBD) with thirteen treatments such as weedy check, pre- and post-emergence herbicides and weed free check with three replication. Results indicated that among herbicide treatments application of pendimethalin + imazethapyr at 1.0 kg /ha (PE) + one manual weeding at 30 DAS significantly reduced total weed density and dry weight of weeds (broad- leaved, grassy and sedge) and increased weed control efficiency at all crop growth stages followed by pendimethalin at 1.0 kg /ha (PE) + imazethapyr at 75 g /ha at 20 DAS. Whereas, lowest weed index (4.8) and higher pod yield (3424 kg/ha) was recorded with pendimethalin + imazethapyr at 1.0 kg /ha (PE) + one manual weeding at 30 DAS followed by pendimethalin at 1.0 kg /ha (PE) + imazethapyr at 75 g/ ha at 20 DAS.','Weed density, Weed dry weight, Weed control efficiency, Weed index, Yield','On the basis of present investigation concluded that herbicidal weed management in groundnut through application pendimethalin @ 1.0 kg/ha (PE) + imazethapyr @ 75 g/ha 20 DAS and pendimethalin + imazethapyr @ 1.0 kg/ha (PE) + one manual weeding at 30 DAS were found most effective for reducing weed density and weed dry weight and conducive for obtaining higher pod yield. ','-','Priyanka, M. L. Mehriya and U. N. Shukla (2023). Efficacy of Herbicides for Weed Control in Kharif Groundnut [Arachis hypogaea (L.)]. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 15(8): 293-299.'),(7165,'163','A Comprehensive Review of Innovative Clinical Trial Strategies','Anwesha Bhattacharya and Ritobrata Chandra','A-Comprehensive-Review-of-Innovative-Clinical-Trial-Strategies-Ritobrata-Chandra-61.pdf','',1,'The federal government emphasizes clinical trials in evidence-based medicine and healthcare reform for improved patient care and quality. However, these trials can pose risks and produce inaccurate information. A well-designed trial requires ethical oversight. Phases I involve safety and general effects studies in volunteers Phase II evaluates the drug in a small group of selected patients. Phase III expands the study to hundreds of patients, and doctors provide feedback on adverse drug reactions (ADR) and effectiveness in phase IV. Clinical trials are increasingly under pressure to enroll patients rapidly and effectively, sometimes with very few resources. Safety data from meta-analyses is challenging to assess and interpret due to the lack of access to individual participant data, the varied nature of safety data, and the statistical difficulties of studying rare incidents. Clinical trial administration practices have evolved, with more adaptable designs emerging. These designs allow for multiple sub studies with different objectives, interventions, and subgroups within a larger master protocol structure. This study reviews existing master protocol studies such as umbrella trials, basket trials, platform trials and statistical methods like Bayesian analysis. Bayesian statistics provides a formal framework for combining information at all stages of clinical trial administration, including design, execution, and analysis. Clinical studies use biostatistics techniques to account for patient response to therapy and draw accurate conclusions, preventing fraud and inadvertent mistakes. Adaptive trial designs offer flexibility and effectiveness, but concerns about quality, validity, and trial integrity persist. However, adaptable clinical designs are increasingly discussed due to their ability to identify potential therapeutic benefits and reduce clinical development length. Adopting adaptive trial designs is expected to enhance clinical development success.','Pre-clinical trials, Clinical trials, Traditional clinical trials, Adaptive clinical trials, randomized clinical trials, Master protocols, Bayesian analysis','Human volunteers participate in clinical trials to verify the new drug\'s beneficial qualities. Investigational novel drugs through clinical stages I, II, III, and IV following preclinical development. These phases include a thorough discussion of pharmacokinetics, pharmacodynamic profile, side effects that may be detrimental or advantageous, adverse impact, and post-marketing surveillance. But traditional clinical trials have several drawbacks. They are slower, more expensive, and less efficient compared to alternative approaches. These trials create time and financial barriers for patients who wish to participate, making it difficult for some individuals to join. Additionally, traditional trials tend to limit overall participation and take a longer time to enroll and complete. Trials with an adaptive design are frequently more effective, instructive, and moral than trials with a typical fixed design because they frequently make better use of resources, such as money and time, and may even need fewer participants. Adaptive clinical trials, such as master protocols (umbrella, platform, and basket trials), offer greater flexibility, efficiency, and cost-effectiveness in drug development. Utilizing statistical methods like randomized clinical trials ensures rigorous evaluation of treatments, enhancing the reliability and validity of clinical trial outcomes for improved patient care and medical advancements.','-','Anwesha Bhattacharya and Ritobrata Chandra (2023). A Comprehensive Review of Innovative Clinical Trial Strategies. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 15(5a): 377-387.'),(7166,'162','Response of Rock Phosphate Tailing and Phosphate Solubilizing Bacteria on Nutrient Content and Productivity of Wheat (Triticum aestivum L.)','Sarita Choudhary, R. H. Meena, S. C. Meena, Arvind Verma, Devendra Jain, N. L. Meena, B. Upadhayay and Suman Dhayal','Response-of-Rock-Phosphate-Tailing-and-Phosphate-Solubilizing-Bacteria-on-Nutrient-Content-and-Productivity-of-Wheat-(Triticum-aestivum-L.)-Sarita-Choudhary-48.pdf','',1,'The present experiment on wheat (Triticum aestivum L.) was conducted during two consecutive Rabi season 2021-22 and 2022-23 at MPUAT, Udaipur, Rajasthan. The field research consisted of 9 treatments which are replicated thrice in a Randomized Block Design (RBD). Nowadays, farmers are trying to get maximum yield with better food quality, at the same time trying to minimize cost of production and to use ecofriendly technologies. There are many factors which influence the concentration of nutrients and among them climatic situation, soil types, nature of crops and amount of fertilizer are important. Hence, the present research is proposed with the objective to study the content of nitrogen, phosphorus and potassium in grain and straw of wheat. The results show of two year study indicated that application of SSP, rock phosphate tailing and seed treatment with PSB significantly increased the concentration of nutrients in grain and straw of wheat by providing different combination of phosphorus sources. The study revealed that application of 50% RDP through SSP + 50% RDP through RPT + PSB statically at par with 75% RDP through SSP + 25% RDP through RPT + PSB and significantly superior over 25% RDP through SSP + 75% RDP through RPT + PSB, 100% RDP through SSP + PSB, 100% RDP through SSP, 100% RDP through RPT + PSB, 125 RDP through RPT + PSB, 100% RDP through RPT and as well as control treatment. Therefore, 50% RDP through SSP + 50% RDP through RPT + PSB treatment is best combination for getting higher nutrient content in grain and straw and grain yield.','SSP, RDP, rock phosphate tailing, PSB, Wheat','Application of phosphorus fertilizer through single super phosphate, rock phosphate tailing and seed inoculation with PSB in combination of 50% RDP through SSP + 50% RDP through RPT + PSB (T5) significantly increased the nutrient content and grain yield of wheat when compared to other treatments such as T4 (75% RDP through SSP + 25% RDP through RPT + PSB), T6 (25% RDP through SSP + 75% RDP through RPT + PSB), T3 (100% RDP through SSP + PSB), T2 (100% RDP through SSP), T7 (100% RDP through RPT + PSB), T8 (125% RDP through RPT + PSB), T9 (100% RDP through RPT) and T1 (control).','-','Sarita Choudhary, R. H. Meena, S. C. Meena, Arvind Verma, Devendra Jain, N. L. Meena, B. Upadhayay and Suman Dhayal (2023). Response of Rock Phosphate Tailing and Phosphate Solubilizing Bacteria on Nutrient Content and Productivity of Wheat (Triticum aestivum L.). Biological Forum – An International Journal, 15(8): 300-304.'),(7167,'162','First Record of Snakehead gudgeon Giuris tolsoni (Bleeker, 1854) (Gobiiformes: Eleotridae) from Indian waters','Mrinal Kumar Das and Chandrakasan Sivaperuman','First-Record-of-Snakehead-gudgeon-Giuris-tolsoni-(Bleeker,-1854)-(Gobiiformes-Eleotridae)-from-Indian-waters-Mrinal-Kumar-Das-49.pdf','',1,'The present study reports the occurrence of Snakehead gudgeon Giuris tolsoni (Bleeker, 1854) (Order-Gobiiformes) under the family Eleotridae for the first time from Andaman and Nicobar islands, India. Two specimens (Standard length ranges from 6.55 to 8.05 cm) were collected in January 2022 from the Great Nicobar Island. The new India records expand the known distribution of G. tolsoni, which had previously been reported from Indonesia, Philippines, Taiwan and Japan only is a new addition to the list of freshwater fishes from Indian waters. This study will be helpful in further study of its biology, zoogeography and taxonomic status of the family Eleotridae. The species is discussed herein with its morphometric and meristic characteristics. ','Giuris tolsoni, new record, Eleotridae, Andaman and Nicobar Island, India','The present study reports the new record of Giuris tolsoni (Bleeker, 1854) from Andaman and Nicobar Islands, India. This is the first distributional record of the Family Eleotridae, Genus Giuris and the species i.e. Giuris tolsoni (Bleeker, 1984) in the Indian Waters. The current study will help the freshwater fish researchers in future for conserving the genetic data and creating its fishery potential for socioeconomic development.','-','Mrinal Kumar Das and Chandrakasan Sivaperuman (2023). First Record of Snakehead gudgeon Giuris tolsoni (Bleeker, 1854) (Gobiiformes: Eleotridae) from Indian waters. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 15(8): 305-309.'),(7168,'157','Evaluation of Anti-diabetic and Hypolipidemic Activity of Drypetes roxburghii Roots','Isha Talwar, Satish Kumar Sharma and Kaneez Fatima ','Evaluation of Anti-diabetic and Hypolipidemic Activity of Drypetes roxburghii Roots-Isha Talwar-248.pdf','',1,'Metabolic disorders such as diabetes (higher glucose level) and obesity (hyperlipidemia) is a major cause of cardiovascular disease. Apart from mainstream medications, botanicals serve as a popular treatment to manage these conditions. To evaluate anti-diabetic and hypolipidemic activity of Drypetes roxburghii (DR) root extract in experimental animal models.\r\nThe roots were extracted using 70% ethanol. Flavonoid and phenolic compound content were quantitatively estimated. Acute oral toxicity of the extract was determined and two doses were selected to evaluate the pharmacological activity. For evaluation of anti-diabetic activity streptozotocin induced diabetes was used as a model and parameters like blood glucose level, liver enzymes, in-vivo oxidative parameters, in-vitro -amylase and -glucosidase level were determined. For evaluation of hypolipidemic activity, high fat diet induced hyperlipidemia was used as a model and parameters like body weight, complete lipid profile and HMG-CoA reductase inhibition was determined. The phenolic content and the flavonoid content was found to be 55.740 g GAE/mg and 142.87 g QE/mg respectively, in crude extract. The extract was found to be safe till 2000 mg/kg BW. The extract at dose 200 mg/kg BW was found to be a potent anti-diabetic and anti-hyperlipidaemic agent. The extract showed potent anti-diabetic and hypolipidemic activity. Ethical concern, selection of statistical test.\r\n','Drypetes roxburghii, Flavonoid content, Diabetes, hyperlipidemia, streptozotocin high-fat-diet','From the above finding, it can be concluded that Drypetes roxburghii root extract was found to have potent anti-hyperglycemic and anti-hyperlipidemic activity, which may be attributed to the presence of flavonoids and phenolic compounds (potent antioxidants) in it.','-','Isha Talwar, Satish Kumar Sharma and Kaneez Fatima (2023). Evaluation of Anti-diabetic and Hypolipidemic Activity of Drypetes roxburghii Roots. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 15(5): 1655-1669.'),(7169,'162','Effect of Nutrient and Weed Management Practices on Weed Dynamics and Chlorophyll content of lentil (Lens culinaris L.)','Suman Dhayal, M.K. Kaushik, J. Choudhary, R.H. Meena, B. Upadhayay, Hemlata Sharma and Sarita Choudhary','Effect-of-Nutrient-and-Weed-Management-Practices-on-Weed-Dynamics-and-Chlorophyll-content-of-lentil-(Lens-culinaris-L.)-Suman-Dhayal-50.pdf','',1,'Weeds are undesirable and unwanted plants that absorb faster and greater quantities of nutrients than crop plants, reducing crop yield even at maximum fertilizer rates. So, promising weed management methods are required to enhance lentil quality. Keeping this in mind, afield experiment was conducted at Research Farm, Division of Agronomy, MPUAT, Udaipur during Rabi season of 2021-22 and 2022-23 to study the effects of nutrient and weed management practices on weed dynamics and chlorophyll content of lentil (Lens culinaris L.). The experiment was laid out in factorial Randomized Block design comprising five nutrient management practices viz., 100% RDF, 75% RDF + one spray of each 2 ml/l nano DAP and nano Zn at flowering initiation, 50% RDF + one spray of each 2 ml/l nano DAP and nano Zn at flowering initiation, 75% RDF + two spray of each 2 ml/l nano DAP and nano Zn at flowering and pod initiation and 50% RDF + two spray of each 2 ml/l nano DAP and nano Zn at flowering and pod initiation as factor A and four weed management practices viz., Weedy check, Two hand weeding at 20 and 40 DAS, Pendimethalin 30 EC @ 1.0 kg/ha PE and Imazethapyr 35% + imazamox 35% WG @ 70 g/ha PoE at 20 DAS as factor B. The weed density and chlorophyll content were recorded at 30 DAS. Application of different nutrient management treatments, 100% RDF recorded significantly increased chlorophyll content of lentil followed by 75% RDF + two spray of each nano DAP and nano Zn as compared to rest of the treatments during both the years of study. Among weed management practices, two hand weeding at 20 and 40 DAS observed significantly reduce weed density followed by pendimethalin 30 EC @ 1.0 kg/ha over to rest of the treatments during both the years. Hence, it concluded that use of 100% RDF and pendimethalin as is promising options for management of weeds and realizing higher chlorophyll content of lentil.','Nutrient management, lentil, chlorophyll, weed management, weed density','The highest value of chlorophyll a, b and total content was observed under 100% RDF followed by 75% RDF + two spray of each 2 ml/l nano DAP & nano Zn at flowering and pod initiation. Among herbicidal treatments, application of pendimethalin 30 EC@ 1.0 kg/ha was the best treatment with respect to weed control. Based on two-year research findings, it is recommended that application of 100% RDF to achieve higher chlorophyll content of lentil and maximum weed control with pendimethalin 30 EC@ 1.0 kg/ha under agro-climatic condition of Rajasthan.','-','Suman Dhayal, M.K. Kaushik, J. Choudhary, R.H. Meena, B. Upadhayay, Hemlata Sharma and Sarita Choudhary (2023). Effect of Nutrient and Weed Management Practices on Weed Dynamics and Chlorophyll content of lentil (Lens culinaris L.). Biological Forum – An International Journal, 15(8): 310-315.'),(7170,'162','Changes in Soil behavior under with the use of various Sources of Nutrient and Bio-fertilizer in Chickpea (Cicer arietinum L.)','Shani Gulaiya, S.B. Agrawal, Priya Kochale, Badal Verma and Kamal Kishor Patel ','Changes-in-Soil-behavior-under-with-the-use-of-various-Sources-of-Nutrient-and-Bio-fertilizer-in-Chickpea-(Cicer-arietinum-L.)-Shani-Gulaiya-51.pdf','',1,'A field experiment was conducted during rabi seasons of 2021-22 and 2022-2023 at Research Farm, Department of Agronomy, College of Agriculture, JNKVV, Jabalpur (M.P.). The experiment was laid out in Split Plot Design with 20 treatment combinations were replicated thrice. Twenty treatment combinations consisted of five sources of nutrient (Control, Vermicompost @ 2 t ha -1, FYM @ 5 t ha -1, NPK (100% RDF) 20: 60: 20 N: P2O5:K2O kg ha-1 and Nano DAP (Seed treatment 5 ml kg-1 seed and foliar spray 0.4 % at 30 DAS), put under main plot and four bio-fertilizer (Control, Rhizobium 10 g kg-1, PSB 10 g kg-1 seed and Rhizobium+PSB (10 + 10 g kg-1 seed) allotted under sub plot. The study on impact of nutrient sources and bio-fertilizers on physico-chemical properties of soil. The results are revealed that application of vermicompost @ 2 t ha-1 found significantly improved porosity (reducing BD from 1.35 to 1.31 g cm-3) and water holding capacity 38.20-44.58%, organic carbon 0.59 to 0.65% as well as available status of major nutrients i.e., N, P & K. Whereas, the use of bio-fertilizer in combination with Rhizobium and PSB perform to increase the soil physical and chemical properties in respect of BD, WHC & OC as well as N & P status of soil.','Chickpea, Rhizobium, PSB, vermicompost, FYM, Nano DAP, water holding capacity and soil bulk density','Based on the foregoing discussion, it can be concluded that sources of nutrients and bio-fertilizers played an vital role in physico-chemical properties of soil. The soil bulk density and water holding capacity were significantly affected by sources of nutrients and bio-fertilizers. The combined application of enriched vermicompost @ 2 t ha-1 along with Rhizobium and PSB was recorded superior among all physico-chemical properties and followed by FYM @ 5 t ha-1 along with Rhizobium and PSB as compared to others nutrient sources. ','-','Shani Gulaiya, S.B. Agrawal, Priya Kochale, Badal Verma and Kamal Kishor Patel (2023). Changes in Soil behavior under with the use of various Sources of Nutrient and Bio-fertilizer in Chickpea (Cicer arietinum L.). Biological Forum – An International Journal, 15(8): 316-319.'),(7171,'162','In vitro Evaluation of Phylloplane and Spermosphere Bacterial Antagonists from Rice Land Races against Sarocladium oryzae causing Sheath Rot Disease of Rice','Balapreethi M., Sheela J., Ebenezar E.G., Arumugam Pillai M., Merina Prem Kumari S., Rajinimala N., Paramasivan M., Sabarinathan K.G. and Theradimani M.','In-vitro-Evaluation-of-Phylloplane-and-Spermosphere-Bacterial-Antagonists-from-Rice-Land-Races-against-Sarocladium-oryzae-causing-Sheath-Rot-Disease-of-Rice-Sheela-J-52.pdf','',1,'Rice, an inevitable staple food crop, is affected by various fungal diseases, including sheath rot caused by Sarocladium oryzae. Sheath rot disease is considered as an important disease since it causes quantitative and qualitative yield loss. This devastating disease causes yield loss ranging from 10 to 85 per cent. Most of the chemicals used to manage sheath rot disease causes remnant of the fungicides in rice seeds. As an environmentally safer method, biocontrol using spermosphere and phylloplane bacterial antagonists were tested against Sarocladium oryzae under in vitro. Among the isolated antagonistic bacteria, Bacillus megaterium (SB 4-spermosphere bacteria) and Bacillus aryabhattai (PB 4-phylloplane bacteria) were found to be effective in inhibiting the growth of S. oryzae in vitro. Bacillus subtilis (TNAU liquid formulation) is recommended as seed treatment, seedling dipping, soil application and foliar spraying to manage sheath rot disease of rice.','Rice, sheath rot, Sarocladium oryzae, spermosphere, phylloplane','The use of biocontrol agents which are more cost-effective and environmentally safer than chemical control method is studied against sheath rot pathogen. The phylloplane and spermosphere bacteria viz., Bacillus aryabhattai (PB 4) and Bacillus megaterium (SB 4), respectively were identified as effective bacterial antagonists in inhibiting the mycelial growth of rice sheath rot pathogen Sarocladium oryzae.','-','Balapreethi M., Sheela J., Ebenezar E.G., Arumugam Pillai M., Merina Prem Kumari S., Rajinimala N., Paramasivan M., Sabarinathan K.G. and Theradimani M. (2023). In vitro Evaluation of Phylloplane and Spermosphere Bacterial Antagonists from Rice Land Races against Sarocladium oryzae causing Sheath Rot Disease of Rice. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 15(8): 320-325.'),(7172,'149','Investigating the combined effect of Hydrogen Cyanamide and Abscisic Acid on Improving Berry Color in \'Flame Seedless\' Grapevines (Vitis vinifera L.)','Ashok Kumar Mahawer, Lokesh Kumar, Deva Shri Maan, Jitendra Chandra Chandola, Prashant Kalal, Balkesh Kumari, Deepak Rao, Tejraj Singh Hada and Naresh Kumar Arora ','Investigating-the-combined-effect-of-Hydrogen-Cyanamide-and-Abscisic-Acid-on-Improving-Berry-Color-in-Flame-Seedless-Grapevines-(Vitis-vinifera-L.)-Ashok-Kumar-Mahawer-198.pdf','',1,'The grapevine (Vitis vinifera L.) holds significant importance as a horticultural crop in tropical and subtropical regions. In terms of seedless cultivars, the grape variety \"Flame Seedless\" is considered to be the most widely grown table grape in the world. Flame Seedless vines exhibit vigorous growth and bright red fruit clusters having medium to large-sized seedless berries. These berries possess a crisp skin, juicy pulp, and a noticeably muscat-like flavor. The current investigation helps to understand the role of the combined impact of abscisic acid (ABA) and hydrogen cyanamide (HCN) in the improvement of the berry color of the “Flame Seedless” grapevine (Vitis vinifera L.). Immediately after pruning, the canes of the 14-year-old vines were subjected to a spray of 2% HCN. At the time of bunch emergence, 75–80 bunches per vine were retained in all the treatments except control, where 110–120 bunches per vine were retained. The treatment T6 (2% HCN + 100 ppm ABA + 400 ppm ethephon) had the lower lightness of berry peel color (l = 15.83), which was statistically similar with treatments T3, T4 and T5. Whereas, the highest value of a* (from green to red) was also obtained from treatment T6 (5.80), which was statistically at par with treatment T5. The treatment T2 (HCN 2% + 75 ppm of ABA) had the highest blueness of peel color b* value (4.91), which was statistically similar to T3 and T8. However, T6 (5.8) and T3 (5.5) had the highest values of the color index of red grapes (CIRG) in comparison to control (4.34). The lowest percentage of uneven color of berries/bunch was observed with the application of 2% HCN + 100 ppm ABA + 400 ppm ethephon (16.78%). The current study will help mitigate the challenge of climate change effects due to elevated temperatures, which cause poor anthocyanin accumulation in berries. The findings of the current study revealed that application of 2% HCN (applied at the end of December) and 100 ppm ABA (applied at veraison stage) was effective in advancing berry ripening and improving berry peel color with minimal postharvest loss in fruit quality during marketing.','Abscisic acid, Berry colour, Ethephon, Flame Seedless, Hydrogen cyanamide','Conclusively, the current study demonstrated that application of HCN at 2%, applied at the end of December in combination with ABA (at the varaison stage), could significantly improve the color and quality of Flame Seedless grapevines while causing minimal deterioration in fruit quality during marketing.','-','Ashok Kumar Mahawer, Lokesh Kumar, Deva Shri Maan, Jitendra Chandra Chandola, Prashant Kalal, Balkesh Kumari, Deepak Rao, Tejraj Singh Hada and Naresh Kumar Arora (2023). Investigating the combined effect of Hydrogen Cyanamide and Abscisic Acid on Improving Berry Color in \'Flame Seedless\' Grapevines (Vitis vinifera L.). Biological Forum – An International Journal, 15(2): 1289-1295.'),(7173,'162','Response of Rice (Oryza sativa L.) varieties to Nutrient Management in kharif Season under Lateritic Soil of West Bengal',' Avinash B., Mahua Banerjee, Sarath Kumar Duvvada, Sujay Kumar Paul and Ganesh Chandra Malik','Response-of-Rice-(Oryza-sativa-L.)-varieties-to-Nutrient-Management-in-kharif-Season-under-Lateritic-Soil-of-West-Bengal-Sarath-Kumar-Duvvada-53.pdf','',1,'In the twenty-first century, the major challenge in modern agriculture is to increase nutrient use efficiency, with a particular focus on nitrogen in fields of cereals. As soil test based nutrient recommendation is long process and to overcome this site specific nutrient management plays a major role in nutrient dosage decision making. Keeping this in view, a field experiment was carried out in 2017 at the farmer’s field in Chella Kamarpada village of Chella G.P., Chella Mouza in Illambazar Block of Birbhum, West Bengal. The experiment consisted of two levels of varieties and six levels of nutrient management, which were replicated thrice and laid out in factorial randomized block design (FRBD). Among the two high-yielding types, Rajendra masuri proved significantly superior over Pratiksha concerning grain and straw yield, N, P, and K uptake by grain and straw and net return, which may be the combined effect of better growth potential. Different schedules of fertilizer application of nutrients based on recommendations from the decision support system like “Nutrient expert” and LCC-based application proved superior over farmer’s practice and blanket application and was statistically at par with the state recommendation on growth, productivity, and economics of rice crop.','LCC, Nutrient Expert, Nutrient management, Rice, Yield','Cultivation of Rajendra masuri variety along with application of fertilizers on the basis of Nutrient expert based recommendation with N split according to LCC may be more productive and profitable for the Red and lateritic soil of West Bengal specially in Birbhum.','-','Avinash B., Mahua Banerjee, Sarath Kumar Duvvada, Sujay Kumar Paul and Ganesh Chandra Malik (2023). Response of Rice (Oryza sativa L.) varieties to Nutrient Management in kharif Season under Lateritic Soil of West Bengal. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 15(8): 326-333.'),(7174,'162','Physical and Genetic Modulation of Strawberries in Relation with Qualitative and Quantitative Traits – A Comprehensive Review','Rupesh Kaushik, Harjinder Kaur, Rahul R. Rodge, Lakhwinder Singh, Sanjeev Kumar and Khan Jabroot J.','Physical-and-Genetic-Modulation-of-Strawberries-in-Relation-with-Qualitative-and-Quantitative-Traits-–-A-Comprehensive-Review-Rahul-R-Rodge-54.pdf','',1,'Strawberry breeding began in the 15th century with the selection and cultivation of European strawberry species in Western Europe, followed by a similar discovery and cultivation in Chile. The most popular variety of strawberries today is the garden strawberry, a hybrid of two different species with the scientific name Fragaria ananassa. However, there are numerous strawberry varieties, some of which are to some extent farmed. Strawberry species are divided into numerous genetic subcategories based on the number of chromosomes they possess. Over the years, strawberry farmers have employed a variety of breeding techniques, starting with conventional plant breeding and moving on to molecular breeding and genetic engineering in the twentieth century. In this review essay, about various breeding techniques used in strawberry breeding were discussed. However, there have been numerous obstacles to strawberry production, which has put pressure on scientists around the globe to create fresh adaptation strategies to meet the rising demand for high-quality strawberry production. The pressure from pests and disease, as well as extreme weather, is the biggest threats to strawberry production. To address some of these issues and meet the demands of consumers for fruit quality, cultivars have been created. The overall acceptability of fruit quality is a key factor in determining the success of a breeding programme because most developed varieties with desirable traits like resistance to biotic and abiotic stresses could not be commercialised and are not grown in commercial settings due to their poor quality traits. Numerous factors, including long juvenility, tall stature, environmental stress, and high heterozygosity, impede the improvement of fruit crop quality. It is challenging to improve specific desirable traits because quality traits in fruit crops are polygenic and controlled by numerous genes. Although perennial fruit crops neatly neglect this issue, numerous attempts have been made to improve the qualitative traits of annual crops. Therefore, using a combination of traditional and contemporary breeding techniques could help to solve these issues. When dealing with laborious fruit crops, biotechnological and molecular methods like marker-assisted selection, transgenics, genomic editing, genomic cis-genics, and candidate genes offer accuracy and dependability to shorten the breeding cycle. This review\'s main topics will be the difficulties in fruit breeding and the current state of various breeding methods for improving fruit quality in fruit trees.','Strawberry, Molecular breeding, Tissue culture, Hybridization','At the end of the paper, we concluded that Cristina, a new cultivar with improved fruit quality that integrates delayed production with greater productivity has snuffed out their enthusiasm. In Europe, Romina is competing for early production with other well-established cultivars like Clery, Alba, Flair, and others. Recurrent selection is valuable for producing improved plant as a new cultivar by selecting the superior breeding material. By the breeding genetic variability sustain and produce diseases resistance cultivars. Recurrent selection producing vigorous lines in two or three cycles and in these lines the leaf area was larger by this plant remain dwarf. In November these lines leaf area was larger than the existing and smaller from November to March. In winter the selection lines where more vigorous due which yield became higher in winter. One of the most efficient ways to lower the cost of micropropagation is to use an appropriate protocol for automation in a bioreactor. The high scale of propagation can be effectively controlled by growth regulators like BA, IBA, or NAA. In comparison to conventional propagated plants, in vitro raised plants produced the most runners. In most of the cases mutation is done is strawberry to increase the germplasm so that new best cultivars can be produced. EMS (ethyl methane sulphonate) mutant is most commonly used in strawberry mutation programme. The methodology of gamma rays+ NaCl is used to develop a new cultivar which show resistance to salinity. Breeding programmes are taken from molecular techniques used in biotechnological processes. The discovery of genetic links between plants, the production of genetic maps, the determination of candidate markers, and their use in early selection are all successful in strawberry breeding. ISSR and RAPD are powerful molecular markers for detecting somaclonal variations. ','-','Rupesh Kaushik, Harjinder Kaur, Rahul R. Rodge, Lakhwinder Singh, Sanjeev Kumar and Khan Jabroot J. (2023). Physical and Genetic Modulation of Strawberries in Relation with Qualitative and Quantitative Traits – A Comprehensive Review. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 15(8): 334-346.'),(7175,'162','Genetic variability and Character Association for Yield and Yield Attributing Traits in Rice','Pragati Sahu, Abinash Mishra and Manasi Dash','Genetic-variability-and-Character-Association-for-Yield-and-Yield-Attributing-Traits-in-Rice-Pragati-Sahu-55.pdf','',1,'Rice straw, which is mainly composed of cellulose, hemicellulose and lignin, can be used as potential source of bioethanol production. Rice straw is also used for mushroom production and as cattle feed. Rice genotypes having high biomass can suitably be used for these purposes. To identify potential rice varieties having high biomass, an experiment was designed taking twenty-one advanced breeding lines during Kharif-2020.Significant differences were observed for all the twelve characters studied. High estimates of PCV and GCV were recorded for Panicle exertion, number of filled grains, straw yield plant-1 and grain yield plant-1. The estimates of GCV and PCV values for panicle exertion, panicle number, secondary branches panicle-1, number of filled grains, panicle length, primary branches panicle-1, straw yield and grain yield showed greater difference. The estimates of PCV and GCV values for plant height, days to flowering and 100-grain weight showed lower difference. High heritability was observed for plant height, days to 50% flowering and 100-grain weight. High genetic advance as percent of mean was observed for panicle exertion. The estimates of phenotypic and genotypic correlations showed that primary branches panicle-1, secondary branches panicle-1, number of filled grains and test weight with grain yield at genotypic level were positive and highly significant. The results pertaining to genotypic path coefficient analysis revealed that secondary branches panicle-1 registered the highest positive direct effect, followed by straw yield, 100-grain weight, panicle exertion, number of filled grains, panicle length and primary branches panicle-1. Hence, these characters can be taken as parameters while doing selection in segregating generations of crosses in order to develop high yielding and having high biomass genotypes. ','Correlation coefficient, genetic advance, heritability, straw yield','Considerable high magnitude of variation was observed in terms of yield, plant height and other yield contributing traits, which revealed that the selected segregants had possessed high grain yield with semi-dwarf to medium stature, high tillering behaviour with resistance to lodging. These lines could be further evaluated for different biofuel characters. ','-','Pragati Sahu, Abinash Mishra and Manasi Dash (2023). Genetic variability and Character Association for Yield and Yield Attributing Traits in Rice. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 15(8): 347-351.'),(7176,'162','Combing Ability of Yield and quality Contributing Attributes in Fodder Maize (Zea maize L.)','Kumar Akshay, Khuroo N.S., Dar Z.A., Shikari A.B. and Bhat M.A.','Combing-Ability-of-Yield-and-quality-Contributing-Attributes-in-Fodder-Maize-(Zea-maize-L.)-Akshay-Kumar-56.pdf','',1,'India is land of agriculture from ancient times. Currently India is largest cattle holders in the world, but in output lack behind European countries. According to IGFRI vision 2050, India faces fodder scarcity of 35% in green fodder, 10.95% in dry fodder and 44% in concentrate which results in reduction of livestock output (meat milk and other bi products). Maize have excellent capacity to adopt environments, high nutritional value and higher growth rate can make it game changer. Current experiment conducted in the SKUAST-K, ten fodder maize lines were crossed in a half diallel fashion during. In the Kharif season 2020 at CSKHPKV Hill Agriculture Research Centre Bajaura and the forty-five crosses were produced. The crosses were evaluated at three locations of Jammu and Kashmir during Kharif 2021. Observations were recorded on 1. Fodder Yield traits – Plant Height, Green fodder yield. 2. Fodder Quality traits- Crude Protein content %, Acid dietary fibres%, Neutral detergent fibres %. In results found. KDFM 179 and KDFM 180 revealed the highest GCA while KDFM 177 and KDFM 184 revealed Lowest GCA. Cross combination viz., KDFM 176 × KDFM 178, and KDFM 183 × KDFM 187 reveled Heighest SCA for yield triats. While parent KDFM 181 (GCA) and cross combination- KDFM 181 × KDFM 183 (SCA) performed best in both yield and quality traits. ','Fodder maize, combing ability, gca, sca','The performance of KDFM 181 in the GCA analysis for yield traits demonstrated its superior performance as the most effective general combiner for yield traits. The cross combination of KDFM 181 and KDFM 183 has demonstrated superior performance in terms of yield attributes. ','-','Kumar Akshay, Khuroo N.S., Dar Z.A., Shikari A.B. and Bhat M.A. (2023). Combing Ability of Yield and quality Contributing Attributes in Fodder Maize (Zea maize L.). Biological Forum – An International Journal, 15(8): 352-356.'),(7177,'162','In vitro Evaluation of Bio-agents on Hatching and Mortality of Root-knot Nematode, Meloidogyne javanica','Raju Dhayal, B.S. Chandrawat, Kavita Choudhary, Vishnu Gurjar, S.P. Bishnoi, Hemraj Gurjar and Hanuman Singh','In-vitro-Evaluation-of-Bio-agents-on-Hatching-and-Mortality-of-Root-knot-Nematode,-Meloidogyne-javanica-Raju-Dhayal-57.pdf','',1,'Investigations were carried out in vitro to evaluate the antagonistic effect of bio-control agents (viz., Trichoderma asperellum, Trichoderma harzianum, Verticillium lecanii, Metarhizium anisopliae and Bacillus subtilis) on hatching and larval mortality of root-knot nematode, Meloidogyne javanica. Bio-against were tested at 5, 10 and 20 per cent concentrate on hatching and larval mortality of M. javanica after 24, 48 and 72 hrs exposure period as compared to control in laboratory). Experimental results showed that all the bio-agents significantly reduced the per cent hatched juveniles and increased the per cent mortality of juveniles Among the tested bio-agents T. harzianum was found most effective treatment with minimum per cent hatched juveniles and maximum per cent mortality of juveniles @ 20 per cent concentration after 72 hours followed by Bacillus subtilis and Metarhizium anisopliae.','Root-knot nematode, Meloidogyne spp., Hatching, Mortality and Bio-agents','Based on the findings, it can be inferred that all the fungal and bacterial bioagents that were tested demonstrated the ability to manage root knot nematodes by reducing egg hatching and causing the death of second stage juveniles in laboratory conditions. Additional research is necessary to confirm their efficacy in both pot and field environments. Moreover, more investigations are needed to identify and characterize the compounds produced by these bioagents that are responsible for their nematicides properties.','-','Raju Dhayal, B.S. Chandrawat, Kavita Choudhary, Vishnu Gurjar, S.P. Bishnoi, Hemraj Gurjar and Hanuman Singh (2023). In vitro Evaluation of Bio-agents on Hatching and Mortality of Root-knot Nematode, Meloidogyne javanica. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 15(8): 357-360.'),(7178,'157','Pot Culture studies on Screening of Cultivars against Blight in Tomato','N. Sumalatha, B. Pushpavathi, R. Jagadeeshwar and R.V.S.K. Reddy','Pot Culture studies on Screening of Cultivars against Blight in Tomato-N Sumalatha-249.pdf','',1,'Tomato stem blight incidence observed in major tomato growing mandals of Ranga Reddy District of Telangana state caused maximum damage to tomato crop. To manage the stem blight infection in tomato, Pot culture (soil infestation and root dip inoculation methods) studies were conducted on ten popularly grown tomato cultivars viz., PKM-1, Arka meghali, Arka abha, US 440, Heemsohna, DS 800, Lyco, US 618, Bhama, 9005 Siri along with a susceptible cultivar Arka vikas were screened against stem blight pathogen Rhizoctonia solani in tomato. Among the tomato cultivars (11) screened, Cultivar PKM-1 was found superior with lowest per cent disease incidence in both soil infestation (25.33) and root dip inoculation (7.50) methods. ','Rhizoctonia solani, screening, tomato cultivars, paper towel method, soil infestation, root dip inoculation','From the results of presented study it is concluded that, R. solani incidence is less in cultivars like PKM-1, Arka meghali, Arka abha compared with other popularly grown tomato cultivars. But the there is great need to work on soilborne pathogen R. solani incidence to manage effectively by conducting experiments especially at field level by applying different manures and identification of best biological control agents.','-','N. Sumalatha, B. Pushpavathi, R. Jagadeeshwar and R.V.S.K. Reddy (2023). Pot Culture studies on Screening of Cultivars against Blight in Tomato. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 15(5): 1670-1673.'),(7179,'162','Improvement of Physio-biochemical and Sensory Attributes of Guava (Psidium guajava Linn.) cv. VNR Bihi by using Various Bagging Materials','Mohan Lal Jat, V.P. Singh, R.K. Jat, Monika Kumari Meena, Purnita Raturi, O.P. Kumawat and J.S. Shivran ','Improvement-of-Physio-biochemical-and-Sensory-Attributes-of-Guava-(Psidium-guajava-Linn.)--cv.-VNR-Bihi-by-using-Various-Bagging-Materials-Mohan-Lal-Jat-58.pdf','',1,'Fruit bagging is a very congenial approach that prevents fruits from being stressed by multiple biotic and abiotic stresses and provides a microclimate during development. It can also potentially improve the quality and market value of fruits. The investigation was carried out at the Horticulture Research Centre, Pattarchatta and Department of Horticulture, G. B. Pant University of Agriculture & Technology, Pantnagar, Udam Singh Nagar, Uttarakhand, during the years 2018–2019. To evaluate the effect of different pre-harvest bagging materials (Biodegradable bags; purple, yellow, pink, green and red; Polypropylene bags; blue, light green, white, green and red; Polyethylene bags; yellow, white, blue, green, orange and pink) on the maturity and physico-chemical properties of guava cv. VNR Bihi. The experiment was laid out in a randomized complete block design with five replications. Fruit bagging treatments showed significant effects on the different parameters studied. Fruit gained the maximum fruit length: diameter ratio (0.99) under the purple biodegradable bag. The maximum core diameter (4.70 cm) was noted with blue polyethylene bag (T14), followed by green polypropylene bag T10 (4.65 cm), white polyethylene bag T13 (4.55 cm) and light-yellow polyethylene bag T12 (4.50 cm). While treatment with light green polyethylene bag reported a higher sugar: acid ratio (24.64) in bagged fruit, it was found to be significantly higher as compared to other treatments. Sensory attributes (appearance, taste, texture, flavour, and overall acceptability) of fruits were maximally observed in the light pink biodegradable bag, respectively 7.47, 7.29, 7.12 and 7.39, followed by blue polyethylene bag, compared to other bagging materials and control. ','Guava, fruit bagging, maturity, physiochemical characteristics, sensory attributes','Based on the results, it can be said that there was a significant difference between the various pre-harvest fruit bagging treatments in terms of fruit length: fruit diameter ratio, core diameter, total sugar: acidity ratio, and sensory attributes (appearance, taste, texture, flavour, and overall acceptability).From the experimental findings, it might be concluded that, among the seventeen bagging materials, Purple biodegradable bag showed the best result of fruit length: fruit diameter ratio compared to other. Green polypropylene bag showed the best finding for core diameter of fruits compare to other treatments. Light green polyethylene was best for total sugar: acidity ratio light pink biodegradable bag best for sensory attributes compare to other treatments. Given the results mentioned above, it is advised to do more research to explore the impact of other potential non-chemical botanical pesticides at various concentrations on the quality of guava fruits. In order to provide a comprehensive recommendation for the technology, it is essential to incorporate both nutritional and taste evaluations.','-','Mohan Lal Jat, V.P. Singh, R.K. Jat, Monika Kumari Meena, Purnita Raturi, O.P. Kumawat and J.S. Shivran (2023). Improvement of Physio-biochemical and Sensory Attributes of Guava (Psidium guajava Linn.) cv. VNR Bihi by using Various Bagging Materials. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 15(8): 361-365.'),(7180,'157','The efficacy of Ascorbic acid against Lead Nitrate Impact on the Histology of Liver of Common Carp (Cyprinus carpio)','Musrat Majeed, Rajendra Chauhan, Farooq Ahmad Mir and Shaista Masarat','The-efficacy-of-Ascorbic-acid-against-Lead-Nitrate-Impact-on-the-Histology-of-Liver-of-Common-Carp-(Cyprinus-carpio)-Musrat-Majeed-250.pdf','',1,'Lead is reported as heavy metal that induces physiological dysfunction and blood disorders. They are often firmly attached to polypeptides and proteins and are water soluble but non-degradable. Diverse activities continue to have an impact on the aquatic environment, altering the climate and causing health hazards to fish, despite past study issuing cautionary notes. This study assessed the toxicity of lead nitrate to the freshwater fishes Cyprinus carpio, to determine the hematological toxicity, histopathology and mortality and survival rate. Fishes were exposed to sub lethal lead nitrate concentrations 5ppm for 15 and 30 days of exposure and (percentage)% mortality was noted after 24, 48, 72, and 96 hours. The determination of LC50 of the Lead nitrate during the present experimental period. 10 mg/l to 60 mg/l Lead nitrate was used to assess the rate of mortality at each concentration. 60 mg/l was seen to be LC100 for Lead nitrate. 50% mortality was recorded in experimental groups exposed to 30-40 mg/l of Lead nitrate therefore, the acute 96h LC50 value for the present experimental fish, Common carp was calculated to be 35 mg/l (ppm).In the present research, the significant hematological (WBCs, RBCs, Hb, neutrophils, Basophils MCHC and Lymphocytes) and histopathological alteration in liver tissue of common carp was recorded upon the exposure to different concentration of lead. The results concluded that lead has a strong influence on hematological and histopathological parameters of common carp during chronic toxicity.','Lead nitrate, C.carpio, mortality, probit, LC50, dysfunction','The impacts of heavy metals on fish are more challenging to visualize because of the aquatic ecosystem\'s dynamic nature. Similar research was performed to determine the amount of lead present in water and it affects natural populations of freshwater fish by altering their physiology, abilities, and skills. The results have significant implications for ecological risk assessments and could make it difficult for fish to survive in their natural habitat. Since consumption of fish food containing heavy metals can have an impact on human health by spreading through the food chain, there is a constant need to identify heavy metal toxicity. Long-term exposure to the genotoxicity that occurred in common carp might have a major negative impact on the health of fish.','-','Musrat Majeed, Rajendra Chauhan, Farooq Ahmad Mir and Shaista Masarat (2023). The efficacy of Ascorbic acid against Lead Nitrate Impact on the Histology of Liver of Common Carp (Cyprinus carpio). Biological Forum – An International Journal, 15(5): 1674-1680.'),(7181,'162','Assessment of Genetic variability, Heritability and Genetic Advance among the various Genotypes of Tomato (Solanum lycopersicum L.) under Northern Hilly Region of Kashmir','B. Srinivasulu, M. Jasmitha, B. Vamsi, K. Rajendra Sagar and P.K. Singh','Assessment-of-Genetic-variability,-Heritability-and-Genetic-Advance-among-the-various-Genotypes-of-Tomato-(Solanum-lycopersicum-L.)-under-Northern-Hilly-Region-of-Kashmir-B-Srinivasulu-59.pdf','',1,'A field experiment was carried out, in which twenty seven genotypes were evaluated to estimate the genetic variability, heritability and genetic advance for the various traits. The experiment was laid out in a Randomized Block Design (RBD) with three replications. The highest phenotypic and genotypic coefficients of variability were observed for number of primary branches plant-1 followed by fruit yield (q/ha), seed weight fruit-1 (mg), titrable acidity (%) and juice to pulp ratio. High heritability (bs) was shown by all the traits with maximum genetic advance (percent of mean) for number of primary branches plant-1 followed by fruit yield (q/ha), titrable acidity (%), juice to pulp ratio, seed weight fruit-1 (mg), plant height (cm), total soluble solids (%), days to first flowering, 1000 seed weight (g), average fruit weight (g). The characters which have exhibited high heritability coupled with genetic advance may be selected for the future breeding programme, because they were governed by additive gene action.','Phenotypic and genotypic coefficient of variability, Genetic advance, Heritability, Tomato','The information generated from this study can be exploited for further breeding programme in tomato. The highest phenotypic as well as genotypic coefficient of variation were observed for all genotypes in number of primary branches plant-1 followed by fruit yield (q/ha), fruit yield plot-1, titrable acidity, seed weight fruit-1, Juice to pulp ratio whereas 1000 seed weight, total soluble solids, days to first flowering and average fruit weight were showed moderate coefficient of variability. The presence of high heritability in broad sense along with high genetic advance in percent of mean are recorded for fruit yield (q/ha), juice to pulp ratio and number of primary branches plant-1.','-','B. Srinivasulu, M. Jasmitha, B. Vamsi, K. Rajendra Sagar and P.K. Singh (2023). Assessment of Genetic variability, Heritability and Genetic Advance among the various Genotypes of Tomato (Solanum lycopersicum L.) under Northern Hilly Region of Kashmir. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 15(8): 366-370.'),(7182,'156','Alveolar Bone Morphology and variations in the Maxillary Central incisor (MCI) in CBCT Scans for Immediate Implant Treatment Planning – A Pilot Study','Shah Rohit, Kamble Seema, ChaudhariAmit, Vaishnav Kalpesh, Mitra Dipika and Surve Neha','Alveolar-Bone-Morphology-and-variations-in-the-Maxillary-Central-incisor-(MCI)-in-CBCT-Scans-for-Immediate-Implant-Treatment-Planning-–-A-Pilot-Study-Shah-Rohit-142.pdf','',1,'Implants have been widely used to restore missing teeth. The success of implant placement in this region can be influenced by various factors, including the anatomical considerations specific to this area. In the current study, Cone Beam Computerized Tomography (CBCT) was used to measure alveolar ridge and buccal undercut dimensions at the maxillary central incisors in the local population for immediate implant treatment planning (IIP).\r\nCBCT scans were screened in 150 subjects with full dentition at maxilla. Measurements were taken at the cross sectional views: Buccolingual width at crest and at apex, apico-coronal height, angulation of tooth in socket, thickness of labial bony plate and thickness of palatal bony plate at crest, middle and at apex, location of buccal undercut, buccal undercut depth and the percentage of teeth showing buccal undercuts were measured.\r\nMean buccolingual width at crest and at apex was 6.23 and 7.39. Mean apico-coronal height was found to be 15.412. Mean thickness of labial bony plate at crest, at middle and at apex is 0.91, 0.67, 1.618. Mean thickness of palatal bony plate at crest, at middle and at apex is 1.21, 3.28 and 6.01. Mean Angulation within the socket is 8.21. Mean buccal undercut location is 4.99. Mean buccal undercut depth is 1.32. The maximum percentage of undercuts was seen in females at 26%. Our study showed statistically significant differences between different age-groups and genders for parameters: Bucco-lingual width at apex., thickness of palatal bony plate at middle, Thickness of palatal bony plate at apex and Angulation within socket. Also, statistically significant differences between males and females in Buccal undercut depth. (p value <0.05).\r\nThis study showed that the quality of maxillary bone in the local population around maxillary central incisors was compromised and deficient as compared to other populations and requires careful preoperative treatment planning including augmentation procedures to successfully manage the same.\r\nThere is a wide variance in the dimensions of the alveolar bone amongst different ethnicities, population, age and gender groups and hence it is difficult to standardize surgical drilling protocols. Precautions and suitable modifications need to be undertaken when placing implants in this region because of its varied anatomy and a detailed study of the ridge based on the parameters is a prerequisite to avoid potential complications and failures.\r\n \r\n','Dental implant, Immediate placement, CBCT, Maxillary Central Incisors, Esthetics','This study showed that the quality of maxillary bone in the local study population around maxillary central incisors was compromised and deficient as compared to other populations and requires careful preoperative treatment planning to successfully manage the same. Implants that are commercially available appear to be oversized and not always dimensionally suitable for the deficient bone around the maxillary central incisors in our local population. This study emphasizes the importance of measuring a host of parameters in the CBCT scan for predictable treatment planning in the esthetic zone. This research gives an insight about the measurements, quantity and quality of bone around the maxillary central incisor in our study population. More research is needed to print customized implant sizes, personalized specific membranes and bone scaffolds for bone augmentation for application in immediate implant placement in aesthetic areas in our local study population.','-','Shah Rohit, Kamble Seema, ChaudhariAmit, Vaishnav Kalpesh, Mitra Dipika and Surve Neha (2023). Alveolar Bone Morphology and variations in the Maxillary Central incisor (MCI) in CBCT Scans for Immediate Implant Treatment Planning – A Pilot study. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 15(4): 854-860.'),(7183,'162','Study on Crop-weather Calendar of Rice for the District of Faizabad of Eastern Plain Zone of UP','Anushka Pandey, S.R. Mishra, A.K. Singh, A.N. Mishra, Rajesh Kumar Agrahari and Siddhant Gupta ','Study-on-Crop-weather-Calendar-of-Rice-for-the-District-of-Faizabad-of-Eastern-Plain-Zone-of-UP-Anushka-Pandey-60.pdf','',1,'An investigation entitled “Study on crop-weather calendar of Rice for the district of Faizabad of eastern plain zone of UP” was carried out at the Department of Agricultural Meteorology, ANDUA&T, Kumarganj, Ayodhya. A Crop weather calendar for rice crop has been prepared for district Faizabad through the collection of historical weather data of last 20 years (2000- 2020). The Crop weather calendar for rice was formulated by combining the weekly climatic averages and phenological calendar for the crop along with the optimum weather criteria needed at different phenological stages of the crop. The Climatic normal for rice crop has been taken formthe25th Standard meteorological week to the 43rd Standard meteorological week (from sowing to harvesting). According to the crop weather calendar rice crop, the maximum temperature for rice crop during emergence was 32.7°C and the minimum temperature was 26.8°C, respectively. During these edling phase to transplanting, maximum temperature and minimum temperature were observed 31-34°C and 25-26°C, respectively, while morning humidity and evening humidity were found at 87-88% and 69-76% respectively. Rainfall during transplanting till heading has been found 22.5 mm to 80mm, while during flowering it was found to be 29 mm. During the grain filling stage maximum temperature 34-32°C and minimum temperature 21-22°C, while at the phase of physiological maturity, maximum temperature 34°C and minimum temperature 19-17.5°C were found conducive. For gall midge, maximum temperature 32-35°C, minimum temperature 23-26°C, rainfall of 66-39 mm during 26th to 39th Standard meteorological week with morning humidity 82-88% were found to be conducive for the infestation. Maximum temperature 30-32°C, minimum temperature 14-27°C, morning humidity >90% and rainfall of 23-51mm were found conducive weather requirements for infestation of yellow stem borer. These conditions were found to be prevail during the 28th-29th meteorological week i.e., seedling and transplanting stage of rice crop to 37th to 38th meteorology. week i.e., flowering stage of the crop. Maximum temperature 32-35°C and minimum temperature 24-26°C with morning humidity 96-99% and evening humidity 75-81% were found to be conducive to the incidence of rice hispa insect in paddy.','Crop-weather calendar, Rice, climatic normal','The highest normal rainfall in 29th week 71mm, the highest maximum temperature 35.7°C in the 25th week and the minimum temperature 26.7°C during 25th and 26th week, morning relative humidity was 90.4% in the 33rdweek and evening relative humidity was 50% in the 43rdweek, were suitable climatic normal for rice in the district of Faizabad. During the phase of seedling to transplanting maximum temperature and minimum temperature 31-34°C and 25-26°C, respectively, were found optimum for the better yield of rice in the district of Faizabad. Rainfall during transplanting till heading has been found in the range of 22.5 mm to 80mm. Maximum temperature 32-35°C, minimum temperature 23-26°C, and humidity of 88% were found to be congenial weather requirements for the infestation of gall midge, yellow stem borer and rice hispa Tmax 30-35°C, T Min 14-27°C, RHm> 90% and rainfall 23-51 mm and for Tmax 32-35°C, Tmin 24-26°C, RHm >96% and RHe 75-81%, were found conducive. The crop weather calendar is a comprehensive guide of the weather requirements of the crop that provides information the researcher as well as to the forecaster that will be utilised for the making decisions about the timing of sowing\\transplanting, agronomic practices, water management and pest-disease management. The information of congenial weather requirement at every growth stage will help researchers, forecasters and farmers in the management the crop in adverse weather conditions and precautions can be taken to avoid losses.','-','Anushka Pandey, S.R. Mishra, A.K. Singh, A.N. Mishra, Rajesh Kumar Agrahari and Siddhant Gupta (2023). Study on Crop-weather Calendar of Rice for the District of Faizabad of Eastern Plain Zone of UP. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 15(8): 371-377.'),(7184,'162','Genetics of Quantitative Traits in muskmelon (Cucumis melo L.)','Ranjitha G.V., A.M. Rao, Basanagouda G., Ujjal K., Nateshan H.M., Kavya M.E., Shilpa M. and Prashantha V. ','Genetics-of-Quantitative-Traits-in-muskmelon-(Cucumis-melo-L.)-Ranjitha-GV-61.pdf','',1,'To unravel genetics of quantitative traits (QTs), most researcher’s attempts are based either on first or second degree statistics, and rarely both. Use of both first and second degree statistics provide the most comprehensive mode of action of genes controlling QTs in crop plants. Meanwhile, genetic analysis based on third and fourth degree statistics is powerful and useful in detecting and characterizing the nature of epistasis. Genetics of fruit yield and its component traits (including TSS as quality trait) was unravelled using a combination of first and second degree and also third and fourth degree statistics in muskmelon. The results based solely on first and second degree statistics were contradictory. While, first degree statistics suggested the predominance of genes with dominance effects, second degree statistics indicated the predominance of additive gene effects in controlling the inheritance of most QTs investigated. However, the combination of first and second degree statistics revealed the importance of both additive and dominance genetic effects in the inheritance of average fruit weight, TSS and fruit cavity size in the genetic background of 21KGSB-258 × 21KGSB-93. High magnitude of estimates of additive gene effects [d] and additive genetic variance (σ2A) coupled with low magnitude / non-significant dominance gene effects [h] and non-significant dominance genetic variance (σ2D) suggested high frequency of increasing effect genes controlling the inheritance of average fruit yield, average fruit weight, fruit cavity size and TSS in the genetic background of 21KGSB-218 × 21KGSB-54. Bi-parental mating in F2 generations before exercising selection is suggested to reduce dominance genetic effects to increase the effectiveness of selection for fruit weight, TSS and cavity size in the cross 21KGSB-258 × 21KGSB-93. Simple selection in F2population is expected to result in rapid genetic gains for average fruit yield, average fruit weight, fruit cavity size and TSS in the genetic background of 21KGSB-218 × 21KGSB-54.','Muskmelon, Quantitative traits, Additive effect, Additive genetic variance, Dominance effect, Dominance genetic variance','The first, second, third and fourth degree statistics based genetic models served as valuable tools and provided comprehensive and mutually complementary information on the nature and magnitude of gene action in controlling commercially important fruit traits in muskmelon.','-','Ranjitha G.V., A.M. Rao, Basanagouda G., Ujjal K., Nateshan H.M., Kavya M.E., Shilpa M. and Prashantha V. (2023). Genetics of Quantitative Traits in muskmelon (Cucumis melo L.). Biological Forum – An International Journal, 15(8): 378-388.'),(7185,'162','Deciphering anti-Microbial compounds Produced by Chaetomium globosum (TNAU Cg- 6) against Early Blight (Alternaria solani) in Potato- an Eco-friendly Approach','Sharnika S., Rajendran L., Karthikeyan G., Vinothkumar B., Raja P., Saravanakumari K. and Durgadevi D.','Deciphering-anti-Microbial-compounds-Produced-by-Chaetomium-globosum-(TNAU-Cg--6)-against-Early-Blight-(Alternaria-solani)-in-Potato--an-Eco-friendly-Approach-Rajendran-L-62.pdf','',1,'The escalating demand for sustainable and eco-friendly strategies to combat plant pathogenic fungi has fueled the exploration of biocontrol agents. Among the biocontrol agents, Chaetomium globosum has shown promising antagonistic potential against various soil-borne plant pathogens. They are considered to be a rich source of novel and bioactive secondary metabolites of great importance. In this study, we investigated the antagonistic interactions between Chaetomium globosum and Alternaria solani, a notorious fungal pathogen causing early blight disease in potato crops, using dual culture technique. The result revealed that TNAU Cg-6 has recorded the maximum inhibition of 75.22% compared to control. The secondary metabolites are identified using GC-MS technique and 7 beneficial compounds are identified with anti-microbial properties. Harnessing the anti-microbial potential of Chaetomium globosum (TNAU Cg-6) could pave the way for innovative, biologically-based disease management solutions in agriculture, promoting sustainable crop production and safeguarding the environment. Some of the challenges include identifying and characterizing the specific antimicrobial compounds, antimicrobial activity may arise from the synergistic effects of multiple compounds, determining the optimal concentration of the antimicrobial compounds for effective disease control without causing harm to the environment, the crop, or beneficial organisms is essential, ensuring that the antimicrobial compounds target only the pathogen (Alternaria solani) while sparing beneficial microorganisms and non-target organisms is crucial. Before commercial application, any novel antimicrobial compound must go through rigorous testing to meet regulatory standards for safety, efficacy, and environmental impact, developing and producing antimicrobial compounds on a scale that is economically viable for farmers can be challenging. Some of the contributions made by the researchers include, compound identification, mechanism of action, conducting field trials to evaluate the efficacy of the antimicrobial compounds under real-world conditions, etc. Further investigations are warranted to optimize the formulation and application methods for large-scale implementation of this eco-friendly approach in potato cultivation. ','Potato, Alternaria solani, Chaetomium globosum (TNAU Cg-6), in vitro screening, GC-MS and Secondary metabolites',' The biological management of foliar pathogens has drawn more attention recently as a potential candidate for substituting chemical control. Overall, our findings indicate that TNAU Cg-6 have the potential to serve as effective biocontrol agents against Alternaria solani. This study contributes to the exploration of eco-friendly and sustainable strategies to manage early blight disease in solanaceous crops. Further research on field trials is warranted to assess the practical applicability and long-term efficacy of dual-plate Chaetomium as a biocontrol agent for Alternaria solani in agricultural settings.','-','Sharnika S., Rajendran L., Karthikeyan G., Vinothkumar B., Raja P., Saravanakumari K. and Durgadevi D. (2023). Deciphering anti-Microbial compounds Produced by Chaetomium globosum (TNAU Cg- 6) against Early Blight (Alternaria solani) in Potato- an Eco-friendly Approach. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 15(8): 389-394.'),(7186,'162','Assessment of Sensory quality of Mushroom-incorporated Chapati','Errabelli Jahnavi, T. Kamalaja, T. Sucharita Devi, M. Prasuna and M. Prameela ','Assessment-of-Sensory-quality-of-Mushroom-incorporated-Chapati-Errabelli-Jahnavi-63.pdf','',1,'People are increasingly consuming nutrient-dense foods like mushrooms because of the growing health consciousness in the society. Various edible mushroom varieties are excellent sources of protein, vitamins, and minerals, and they are low in calories, which play a significant role in the body when consumed. The current study\'s primary goal is to determine chapati\'s sensory quality when blended with mushroom powder in various amounts (5–20%). On a 9-point hedonic scale, the sensory evaluation was performed. According to the sensory information, the chapati with a 15% milky mushroom powder inclusion was rated highly among all the formulations. Consumers can acquire numerous health benefits from the mushroom value-added foods, which additionally boost the dietary value of the products.','Nutrient-dense, milky mushroom, chapati, sensory evaluation','The current investigation can conclude that the addition of milky mushroom powder to regularly consumed foods like chapati can boost the nutritious value. The 15% milky mushroom powder inclusion in the wheat flour was considered the most appreciated formulation based on the sensory results. Due to the nourishing value of mushrooms, new food products made from them must become popular and accessible to consumers of all ages.','-','Errabelli Jahnavi, T. Kamalaja, T. Sucharita Devi, M. Prasuna and M. Prameela (2023). Assessment of Sensory quality of Mushroom-incorporated Chapati. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 15(8): 395-397.'),(7187,'162','Evaluation of Germplasm Lines of Sorghum against Grey Leaf Spot incited by Cercospora sorghi Ellis and Everh','Janvi Malik, Manjeet Singh, Pooja Sangwan, Pummy Kumari, Vinod Kumar Malik, Niharika Sheoran and Gargee Gill','Evaluation-of-Germplasm-Lines-of-Sorghum-against-Grey-Leaf-Spot-incited-by-Cercospora-sorghi-Ellis-and-Everh-Manjeet-Singh-64.pdf','',1,'Sorghum is an important crop for human consumption as well as animal feed. Grey leaf spot incited by Cercospora sorghi Ellis and Everh is the most serious disease as it causes premature drying and defoliation of leaves, reduces the quality and quantity of green fodder. The most efficient and economical way of disease management is the production of resistant cultivars development. A total of eighty five sorghum lines were evaluated for their reaction against grey leaf spot at research farm of Forage Section, CCS Haryana Agricultural University, Hisar during Kharif 2022. The germplasm lines were categorized as highly resistant (HR), resistant (R), moderately resistant (MR), susceptible (S) and highly susceptible (HS) according to the standard rating scale (1-9). Out of the eighty five germplasm lines screened, twenty three, twelve, twenty two, twenty five and three germplasm lines showed highly resistant, resistant, moderately resistant, suscptible and highly susceptible reactions, respectively. The resistant lines could be utilized in breeding programs for development of varieties of sorghum resistant against grey leaf spot disease. ','Grey leaf spot, Cercospora sorghi, Germplasm, Resistant','A total of eighty five sorghum lines were screened for their relative resistance/ tolerance against grey leaf spot under field conditions at forage section, CCS HAU, Hisar during Kharif, 2022. Out of 85 genotypes screened, twenty three lines namely SOR 13853, SOR 13874, SOR 13924, SOR 13940, SOR 14379, SOR 14390, SOR 14391, SOR 14393, SOR 14217, SOR 14231, SOR 14251, SOR 14255, SOR 14268, SOR 14274, SOR 14170, SOR 14193, SOR 14203, SOR 14214, SOR 14399, SOR 14453, SOR 14479, SOR 14414, SOR 13620 showed highly resistant reaction against grey leaf spot of sorghum. Twelve, twenty two, twenty five and three sorghum lines showed resistant, moderately resistant, susceptible and highly susceptible reactions, respectively. The sources of highly resistant, resistant and moderately resistant lines need to be tested for their authenticity with artificial inoculation techniques and if they show resistant reaction may could be utilized in resistance breeding program for at least development of tolerant varieties of sorghum against grey leaf spot disease.','-','Janvi Malik, Manjeet Singh, Pooja Sangwan, Pummy Kumari, Vinod Kumar Malik, Niharika Sheoran and Gargee Gill (2023). Evaluation of Germplasm Lines of Sorghum against Grey Leaf Spot incited by Cercospora sorghi Ellis and Everh. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 15(8): 398-401.'),(7188,'162','Enhancement in Yield Parameters of Guava (Psidium guajava L.) cv. Lalit through Foliar Application of Nano Urea and chelated Zinc under Western Uttar Pradesh conditions','Shalini Singh, Arvind Kumar, Satya Prakash, Vipin Kumar, Aastha Dubey, Vishal Gangwar and Amit Kumar','Enhancement-in-Yield-Parameters-of-Guava-(Psidium-guajava-L.)-cv.-Lalit-through-Foliar-Application-of-Nano-Urea-and-chelated-Zinc-under-Western-Uttar-Pradesh-conditions-Shalini-Singh-65.pdf','',1,'The present investigation was carried out at Horticultural Research Centre of Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel University of Agriculture and Technology, Meerut. The experiment titled “A study on yield attributes of guava (Psidium guajava L.) cv. Lalit affected by foliar application nano urea and chelated zinc” was laid out in a Factorial Randomized Block Design (FRBD) and the number of treatments were 16 viz., T1- control, T2- nano N 1.5 ml, T3- nano N 3.0 ml, T4-nano N 4.5 ml, T5- chelated Zn 0.4%, T6- nano N 1.5 ml + chelated Zn 0.4%, T7- nano N 3.0 ml + chelated Zn 0.4%, T8- nano N 4.5 ml + chelated Zn 0.4%, T9- chelated Zn 0.8%, T10- nano N 1.5 ml + chelated Zn 0.8%, T11- nano N 3.0 ml + chelated Zn 0.8%, T12- nano N 4.5 ml + chelated Zn 0.8%, T13- chelated Zn 1.2%, T14- nano N 1.5 ml + chelated Zn 1.2%, T15- nano N 3.0 ml + chelated Zn 1.2% and T16- nano N 4.5 ml + chelated Zn 1.2%, each replicated thrice. Because horticulture crops mostly rely on chemical fertilisers, precise nutrient management of these crops is a significant challenge on a global scale. Traditional fertilisers can be hazardous to people and the environment in addition to being expensive for the producer. Due to this, people are looking for environmentally acceptable fertilisers, especially ones that are highly nutrient-efficient, and nanotechnology is emerging as a possible substitute. Out of the 16 treatment applied, the results revealed that treatment T12 recorded the highest number of fruits per tree (179.67 and 180.33), maximum fruit yield per tree (18.53 and 18.59 kg) and yield per hectare (205.90 and 206.50 q/ha). Among nano urea and chelated zinc doses, T4 and T9 were found to be best.','Guava, Nano Urea, Chelated Zinc, Yield Attributes, Foliar Application, Nutrient Management, Nanotechnology and Environmental Sustainability','Based on above investigation, it was observed that there was significant effect of nano urea and chelated zinc yield attributes of guava cv. Lalit. It can be concluded that guava plants sprayed with combination of nano urea@ 4.5 ml/tree and chelated zinc @ 0.8% recorded maximum number of fruits per tree, fruit yield per tree and yield per hectare. Among the doses of nano urea applied, nano urea@ 4.5 ml/tree performed the best and nano urea@ 3.0 ml/tree was also found to be at par. Also, the single doses of chelated zinc applied, chelated zinc @ 0.8% recorded the best findings and chelated zinc @ 1.2% was found to be at par with it. Therefore, it can be recommended that under western Uttar Pradesh conditions, guava trees when sprayed with combination of nano urea (4.5 ml/tree) and chelated zinc (0.8%) thrice, starting from one month before flowering, at full bloom and at fruit set, along with recommended cultural practices increases the yield attributes of guava.','-','Shalini Singh, Arvind Kumar, Satya Prakash, Vipin Kumar, Aastha Dubey, Vishal Gangwar and Amit Kumar (2023). Enhancement in Yield Parameters of Guava (Psidium guajava L.) cv. Lalit through Foliar Application of Nano Urea and chelated Zinc under Western Uttar Pradesh conditions. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 15(8): 402-407.'),(7189,'162','Study to identify the suitable Propagation Time in Apple (Malus × domestica Borkh.) in Subtropical conditions','Vinayak, Satya Prakash, Arvind Kumar, Amit Kumar, Saurabh Kumar Singh, Yashraj, Vikash Tyagi, Aastha Dubey and Riya ','Study-to-identify-the-suitable-Propagation-Time-in-Apple-(Malus-×-domestica-Borkh.)-in-Subtropical-conditions-Vinayak-66.pdf','',1,'The present investigation entitled “Study to identify the suitable propagation time in apple (Malus × domestica Borkh.) in subtropical conditions” was carried out at Horticultural Research Centre of Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel University of Agriculture & Technology, Meerut – 250110 during 2022-23. In this study, three propagation times viz., 1 January, 15 January and 30 January were selected with three replications. The different parameters for these propagation times were recorded to evaluate the best propagation time. Climate was the major challenge in this study because of sub-tropical conditions and apple being a temperate fruit crop it was more challenging to propagate them in sub-tropical conditions. In order to overcome this situation, we used low chilling varieties of apple viz., Anna, HRMN-99 and Dorsett Golden. When plants were grafted on 30 January it took the minimum days (11.62) to bud intake and showed the maximum results in scion diameter (1.50 cm), leaf area (11.78), plant height (58.69 cm) and survival percentage (95.56%). And maximum results were found in percent success at 30 days (86.67%), number of branches (8.91) and number of leaves (37.26) when plants were grafted on 15 January. Rootstock diameter was recorded maximum when plants were grafted on 1 January.','Apple propagation time, Malus × domestica Borkh., Subtropical conditions, Climate challenges\r\nLow-chilling apple varieties, Grafting effects, Scion performance and Propagation success\r\n','In this study, some low chilling varieties of apple viz., Anna, Dorsett Golden and HRMN-99 were grafted on apple rootstocks on different grafting dates viz., 1 January, 15 January and 30 January. Based on the findings of this study, it can be concluded that 30 January is the most suitable propagation time for Apple, followed by 15 January in subtropical conditions.','-','Vinayak, Satya Prakash, Arvind Kumar, Amit Kumar, Saurabh Kumar Singh, Yashraj, Vikash Tyagi, Aastha Dubey and Riya (2023). Study to identify the suitable Propagation Time in Apple (Malus × domestica Borkh.) in Subtropical conditions. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 15(8): 408-411.'),(7190,'151','Population Dynamics of Aphids Infesting Okra with different Sowing Dates','D.M. Pawar, Suresh Kumar and Gopal Golvankar','Population-Dynamics-of-Aphids-Infesting-Okra-with-different-Sowing-Dates-Suresh-Kumar-8.pdf','',1,'The field experiment was carried out on population dynamics of aphids infesting okra with different sowing dates during rabi-summer season of 2016-17 at Agronomy Farm, College of Agriculture, Dapoli. The results revealed that there were marked differences in infestation of aphid population. The initiation of aphids infestation was started from 4th week after sowing at each sowing dates. During cropping season at different sowing dates, the mean infestation varied from 0.80 to 4.66 per three leaves per plant. Minimum aphids infestation (0.80 ± 1.08) was recorded in S1 (12th -18th Nov.,) sowing date in 5th SMW (29th Jan., – 4th Feb., i.e. 11 weeks after sowing), while maximum (4.66 ± 1.33) infestation was recorded during 19th SMW (7th – 13th May i.e. 7 weeks after sowing) in S6 (26th Feb., –4th March) sowing date. In S6 (26th Feb., – 4th March) sowing date correlation between various weather parameters with mean infestation of aphids were significantly relationship except minimum temperature and morning relative humidity.','Seasonal incidence, aphids, weather parameters, correlation, sowing dates ','From the present investigation, it can be concluded that the sowing date play vital role in okra production. Early sowing of okra reduces aphids infestation. While, S6 (26th Feb., – 4th March) sowing date correlation between various weather parameters with mean infestation of aphids were significantly relationship except minimum temperature and morning relative humidity.','-','-'),(7191,'162','Cultivation of Oyster Mushroom: A Review','Sarita, Roop Singh, Kalpna Yadav, Karan Singh, Priyanka and Gagandeep Singh','Cultivation-of-Oyster-Mushroom-A-Review-Sarita-67.pdf','',1,'Mushrooms are rich in nutrients, minerals, vitamins, proteins, and bioactive substances such polysaccharides, steroids, phenolic compounds, and terpenes. The demand for mushroom cultivation is increasing daily as more people become aware of its high nutritional value and gustatory appeal. This review study aims to provide a comprehensive view of mushroom farming technologies. The expression of non-traditional crops in the farming system enhances the profitability of the farmer. Mushroom farming is a successful agricultural enterprise. It is a limited-space technique that only needs a small expenditure. Cultivation of oyster mushroom is a source of national income and helps to reduce poverty. Pleurotus species are capable of growing on a variety of agro-wastes and lignocellulosic materials, and a number of different culture substrates and growth conditions have been explored. The use of wastes in mushroom production offers an added benefit: tackling environmental, economic, and global problems while managing food waste sustainably and producing high-quality food from low-quality waste. Pleurotus species of mushrooms have medicinal potential because of their nutritional or chemical composition. Mushrooms can be utilized to empower women. In a small village, women can grow oyster mushrooms at home to meet their nutritional needs and make money.','Pleurotus spp., Agro-wastes, Temperature, Relative humidity, Nutritional value, Yield','Management from ‘waste-to-wealth’ is essential for more sustainable farming globally, and increasing mushroom production in India seems a viable and attractive option. By educating people and raising awareness about the nutritional and health potential of mushrooms, adding these mushrooms to our diet can enrich our culinary experience while providing an array of health benefits. It is also important to draw attention towards the integration of mushroom technology into successful Agri-residue management programs, livelihood programs, national nutrition programs, and women\'s empowerment and rural development initiatives. \r\nFrom this review paper it is concluded that to increase the productivity of Pleurotus mushroom, it is necessary to understand its production technology as well as favourable environmental condition such as room temperature, relative humidity dark period and appropriate aeration. Bacterial and fungal diseases are most commonly occurred due to unfavourable temperature, relative humidity and inappropriate aeration. In mushroom cultivation it entirely depends on the environment where it is cultivated and the room needs to be in proper sanitation in order to avoid contamination. The grower engaged in mushroom cultivation should also have knowledge of substrate quantity and spawn rate.\r\n','-','Sarita, Roop Singh, Kalpna Yadav, Karan Singh, Priyanka and Gagandeep Singh (2023). Cultivation of Oyster Mushroom: A Review. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 15(8): 412-418.'),(7192,'162','Mutagenic effect of Sodium Azide on Morphological Parameters of Cowpea \r\n(Vigna unguiculata L.)\r\n','Kumari N., Mahawer L.N., Bairwa H.L., Babu S.R., Jain D., Singh D.P. and Pandwala N.','Mutagenic-effect-of-Sodium-Azide-on-Morphological-Parameters-of-Cowpea--Neha-Kumari-68.pdf','',1,'A field experiment was carried out at Horticulture Farm, Department of Horticulture, Rajasthan College of Agriculture, MPUAT, Udaipur, Rajasthan in year 2023, to study the “Mutagenic effect of sodium azide on morphological parameter of cowpea (Vigna unguiculata L.)”. Cowpea cv. Pusa Dharni, including germination percentage, days to 50% flowering, leaf length, leaf width, pod length, pod diameter, and lethality. The germination percentages varied among treatments, as compared to control (SA11) and sodium azide (0.01%) exhibiting the highest values (93% and 90% respectively), while SA10 (0.1%) had the lowest (40%). The control SA3 (0.03%) and SA2 (0.02%) treatments resulted in earlier flowering, while higher level SA10 (0.1%) showed delayed flowering. Leaf length and width were significantly influenced by SA3 and SA2 treatments with SA10 exhibiting the narrowest leaves. Pod length and diameter were increases in treatment SA3, SA2, and SA4 level, while the higher lethality was observed in the SA10 (0.1%) over the control and other treatment level.','Mutagenic, Sodium Azide, Cowpea, Pusa Dharni, and Lethality','In conclusion was found that the control treatment (SA11 - Control) performed well in terms of germination percentage, days to 50% flowering, leaf length, leaf width, pod length, and pod diameter in cowpea cv. Pusa Dharni. Among the other treatments, SA1 - SA @ 0.01 showed comparable performance in terms of germination percentage and lethality, while SA3 - SA @ 0.03 exhibited early flowering and favorable leaf, pod length, and pod diameter. On the other hand, SA10 - SA @ 0.1 showed the lowest germination percentage and highest lethality.\r\nThese findings highlight the importance of proper concentration and application of sodium azide in cowpea cultivation. Further research is needed to understand the underlying mechanisms and to optimize the dosage and timing of sodium azide application to maximize desired growth parameters and minimize lethality in cowpea cv. Pusa Dharni.\r\n','-','Kumari N., Mahawer L.N., Bairwa H.L., Babu S.R., Jain D., Singh D.P. and Pandwala N. (2023). Mutagenic effect of Sodium Azide on Morphological Parameters of Cowpea (Vigna unguiculata L.). Biological Forum – An International Journal, 15(8): 419-423.'),(7193,'162','Physicochemical characterization of Mulberry Genetic Resources and varieties for Generation of sustainable Biomass Energy','Nilav Ranjan Bora, K.T. Parthiban, R. Mahendiran, P. Kumar, P. Priyadharshini, E. Arasakumar, M.V. Jawahar Vishnu and Oyimang Tamuk ','Physicochemical-characterization-of-Mulberry-Genetic-Resources-and-varieties-for-Generation-of-sustainable-Biomass-Energy-Nilav-Ranjan-Bora-69.pdf','',1,'Mulberry trees have been recognized for their versatile applications in various industries, including the production of wood for energy purposes. The present study investigated the physicochemical properties of mulberry genetic resources and varieties in relation to their potential as a renewable energy source in the form of wood. This study also emphasizes the need to address challenges in effectively optimizing fuelwood production and utilization for a more sustainable future. The assessed physical properties of these resources revealed a moisture content, bulk density, basic density and specific gravity of 33.96-47.43%, 165.69-210.98 Kgm-3, 566.40-718.65 Kgm-3 and 0.40-0.66 respectively. Regarding chemical properties, the analysis unveiled ash content, acid benzene extractive, acid insoluble lignin and holocellulose of 1.10-2.39%, 2.21-3.77%, 20.91-28.45% and 68.59-73.28% respectively. On the basis of physicochemical properties M. macroura, M. laevigata, M. nigra, M.alba, G2 and M. australis are the most preferred energy plants among the 11species and 4 varieties studied. The physicochemical analysis of mulberry genetic resources and varieties sheds light on the promising potential of mulberry wood as an eco-friendly and renewable energy source. However, further research and development are essential to optimize fuelwood production, utilization, and deployment strategies, paving the way for a greener and more sustainable energy for future.','Mulberry tree, woody biomass, fuelwood, renewable energy, energy crisis','The physical and chemical composition of fuelwood species has significant influences on the energy value of woody biomass. The results of the current study indicates M. macroura is the most preferable species for energy production, followed by M. laevigata, M. nigra, M. alba, G2 and M. australis respectively. On the other hand, S36 is considered the least suitable species for energy output based on its rating. The promising species and varieties identified in this study can be recommended for inclusion in a fuelwood plantation establishment program for domestic and commercial cooking and heating. By incorporating into the plantation program, it is expected to meet the energy needs of both households and commercial establishments efficiently and sustainably.','-','Nilav Ranjan Bora, K.T. Parthiban, R. Mahendiran, P. Kumar, P. Priyadharshini, E. Arasakumar, M.V. Jawahar Vishnu and Oyimang Tamuk (2023). Physicochemical characterization of Mulberry Genetic Resources and varieties for Generation of sustainable Biomass Energy. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 15(8): 424-430.'),(7194,'162','Integrated Application of Soil Amendments to Improve Soil properties and Growth of Wheat in Rice-wheat Cropping System','Haziq Shabir, Peeyush Sharma, Vikas Abrol, Gulzar Ahmad Bhat, Vikas Sharma, Ayman Javed, R.K. Shrivastava, Jagmohan Singh and Meena Yadav','Integrated-Application-of-Soil-Amendments-to-Improve-Soil-properties-and-Growth-of-Wheat-in-Rice-wheat-Cropping-System-Haziq-Shabir-70.pdf','',1,'The integrated application of soil amendments to enhance soil properties and wheat growth in a rice-wheat cropping system presents numerous benefits, including improved nutrient availability and soil structure. However, challenges include complex interactions between amendments, meeting crop-specific needs, understanding long-term effects, addressing environmental concerns, timing applications optimally, accounting for local soil variability, managing costs, accurate measurement, considering social and economic factors, interpreting data, and adhering to regulations. Overcoming these challenges requires interdisciplinary collaboration and can yield valuable insights for sustainable agriculture. A field experiment was conducted at research farm, division of soil science and agricultural chemistry, Sher-e-Kashmir university of agricultural sciences and technology, Jammu during 2020-2022. The experiment was conducted on sandy clay loam soil. The experiment was laid in split plot design replicated thrice. The treatments consisted of two planting methods of rice in main plots viz., System of rice intensification (SRI) and Flooded rice (FR) and six different treatments of biochar and polymer in subplots viz., B0P0: Control, B0P10: 10 kg Polymer per hectare, B5P0: 5 tons biochar per hectare, B5P10: 5 tons biochar per hectare + 10 kg Polymer per hectare, B10P0: 10 tons biochar per hectare, B10P10: 10 tons biochar per hectare + 10 kg Polymer per hectare. The study was conducted to find the effect of various amendments on growth parameters of succeeding wheat crop and soil properties after its harvest. The results revealed that the highest plant height of 102.95cm was observed in B10P10 treatment while as the highest number of tillers per metre square 315.68 was observed in the same treatment. The highest root volume of 6.18 cc hill-1 was observed in a treatment containing 10 tons of biochar per hectare and 10 kg of polymer per hectare while as no significant difference in 1000 grain weight was observed between the various treatments. Studying integrated soil amendment application in rice-wheat systems can lead to enhanced crop growth, sustainability, and resource management. It offers innovative practices, better soil health, optimized nutrient strategies, and economic benefits while contributing to global food security and policy development.','Biochar, polymer, system of rice intensification, flooded rice','The integrated application of biochar and polymer shows great promise in enhancing soil properties and promoting wheat growth in a rice-wheat cropping system. The combination of biochar and polymer has the potential to improve soil fertility, water retention, and nutrient availability, leading to increased crop yields and overall agricultural sustainability. This approach holds significance for addressing challenges related to soil degradation, water scarcity, and food security, making it a valuable strategy in modern agricultural practices. Further research and field trials are needed to fine-tune the application rates and assess long-term impacts, but the results so far indicate that this innovative technique has the potential to revolutionize soil management and crop productivity in agricultural systems.','-','Haziq Shabir, Peeyush Sharma, Vikas Abrol, Gulzar Ahmad Bhat, Vikas Sharma, Ayman Javed, R.K. Shrivastava, Jagmohan Singh and Meena Yadav (2023). Integrated Application of Soil Amendments to Improve Soil properties and Growth of Wheat in Rice-wheat Cropping System. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 15(8): 431-434.'),(7195,'162','Evaluation of Bio-efficacy of different bio-pesticides against Maize Stem Borer, Chilo partellus (Swinhoe) in Udaipur Region','Gagandeep Singh, Amit Kumar, Vijay Kumar, Ashok Kumar Meena and Bhuvnesh Nagar ','Evaluation-of-Bio-efficacy-of-different-bio-pesticides-against-Maize-Stem-Borer,-Chilo-partellus-(Swinhoe)-in-Udaipur-Region-Gagandeep-Singh-71.pdf','',1,'The field experiment was conducted to evaluate “Bio-efficacy of different bio-pesticides in maize stem borer at Rajasthan college of Agriculture, Udaipur during Kharif 2018. The efficacy study revealed that all the treatments significantly reduced leaf injury and percent dead heart and increased grain yield over untreated check. The treatment, spinosad 35 % EC @ 0.3 ml/l was found effective with that minimum leaf injury rating (2.20) and percent dead heart (10.0) followed by Bt, NSKE 5%, Beauveria bassiana, Metarhizium and Azadiractin 1500 ppm 2%as compared to untreated control [7.90 (LIR) & 43.90 (percent dead heart)]. Similarly, spinosad 35 % EC gave significant result with the highest grain yield (42.00 Q/ha) followed by Bt, NSKE 5%, Beauveria bassiana, Metarhizium and Azadiractin 1500 ppm 2% as compared to untreated control (28.00 Q/ha).','Stem borer, Maize, Spinosad, Dead heart, Leaf Injury Rating, Beauveria, Cereal','The findings of this investigation revealed that the lowest leaf injury rating and percent dead heart (2.20 and 10 per cent, respectively) was observed with spinosad 35 % EC @ 0.3 ml/l treated plots followed by bt@ 5 g/l where leaf injury rating was 2.80 and percent dead heart was 13.33 observed. The highest leaf injury rating and percent dead heart (7.90 and 43.33, respectively) were found in untreated plots. Similarly, the highest grain yield (42.00 Q/ha) was observed with spinosad 35 % EC @ 0.3 ml/l treated plots followed by bt @ 5 g/l (39.00 Q/ha). The lowest grain yield (28.00 Q/ha) was found in untreated plots.','-','Gagandeep Singh, Amit Kumar, Vijay Kumar, Ashok Kumar Meena and Bhuvnesh Nagar (2023). Evaluation of Bio-efficacy of different bio-pesticides against Maize Stem Borer, Chilo partellus (Swinhoe) in Udaipur Region. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 15(8): 435-438.'),(7196,'162','Effect of Potassium and Zinc on Yield and Yield Attributes of Isabgol (Plantago ovata Forsk.)','Chetana Sharma, M. K. Kaushik, Anshul Sharma, Garima Tak, Disha Joshi, Ritesh Patidar and Kishan Kumar','Effect-of-Potassium-and-Zinc-on-Yield-and-Yield-Attributes-of-Isabgol-(Plantago-ovata-Forsk.)-CHETANA-SHARMA-72.pdf','',1,'A successful cultivation of any crop envisages sufficient knowledge about the nutritional requirement of plant. The response and requirement of various nutrients differ widely on the agro-climatic condition and management practices. A field study was conducted during rabi 2021-22 at the Instructional Farm of the Rajasthan College of Agriculture, Udaipur to study the effect of different levels of potassium and zinc on growth, productivity and quality of isabgol using randomized block design with 3 replications. The experiment consisted of 12 treatments comprising of fertilizers combinations viz., 40 kg ha-1 K2O + 30 kg ha-1 Zn, 40 kg ha-1 K2O + 25 kg ha-1 Zn, 40 kg ha-1 K2O + 20 kg ha-1 Zn, 30 kg ha-1 K2O + 30 kg ha-1 Zn, 30 kg ha-1 K2O + 25 kg ha-1 Zn, 30 kg ha-1 K2O + 20 kg ha-1 Zn, 20 kg ha-1 K2O + 30 kg ha-1 Zn, 20 kg ha-1 K2O + 25 kg ha-1 Zn, 20 kg ha-1 K2O + 20 kg ha-1 Zn, 40 kg ha-1 N + 20 kg ha-1 P2O5 + 20 kg ha-1 K2O, 40 kg ha-1 N + 20 kg ha-1 P2O5 and control. The results revealed that application of 30 kg ha-1 K2O + 20 kg ha-1 Zn resulted in significantly higher yield and yield attributes of isabgol.','Potassium and Zinc on Yield, Yield Attributes of Isabgol','From the present investigation, it is concluded that isabgol crop must be supplied with 30 kg ha-1 K2O + 20 kg ha-1 Zn along with 40 kg ha-1 N and 20 kg ha-1 P2O5 as soil application to get higher productivity and improved quality in prevailing agro-climatic conditions of zone IVa (Sub-Humid Southern Plain and Aravali Hills) of Rajasthan.','-','Chetana Sharma, M. K. Kaushik, Anshul Sharma, Garima Tak, Disha Joshi, Ritesh Patidar and Kishan Kumar (2023). Effect of Potassium and Zinc on Yield and Yield Attributes of Isabgol (Plantago ovata Forsk.). Biological Forum – An International Journal, 15(8): 439-442.'),(7197,'162','Study the Breeding Practices using by Goat Keepers in the Pratapgarh \r\nDistrict of Rajasthan\r\n','Sandeep Singh, Amit Kumar, Simran Kaur and Heenashree Mansion','Study-the-Breeding-Practices-using-by-Goat-Keepers-in-the-Pratapgarh--Heenashree-Mansion-73.pdf','',1,'India is predominantly an agricultural country and about 70 per cent of its population depends upon agriculture. This necessities the importance of subsidiary occupation like Goat rearing so as to increase the income and employment of the rural poor thereby improving their standard of living. The Goat population in Rajasthan state was 20.84 million while in the study area (Pratapgarh District) the population was 2.59 lakh. Majority of the households in rural areas are below poverty line and most of them belong to landless agricultural labors, marginal, small farmers and rural crafts person. The most common symptoms of heat detection was mounting (26.66%) and bleating (25.83%). The majority of goat keepers (50.83%) confirm their goat pregnancy by enlargement of abdomen followed by non return of goat in heat (28.33%) and remaining goat keepers confirm through diagnosis (20.83%) while, maximum goat keepers (63.33%) in the study area practiced to house their pregnant does with their other goats i.e. group housing and 36.66 per cent goat keepers were aware to house pregnant does in a separate house. Present study provides basic knowledge about the breeding practices used by goat keepers.','Goat, Socio-economic, Rural people, Breeding, Husbandry, Ruminants, Farmers, Pratapgarh','The study was undertaken to find goat breeding practices, production system and traits preferences under smallholder goat keepers in Pratapgarh district of Rajasthan. The selection practices for both breeding buck and doe in the society based on traditional selection criteria is also promising for genetic improvement of the goat stock. Thus, in designing breeding program, full participation of the society. The important factors that must be taken seriously in order to create a goat improvement programme that is sound and sustainable include the current environment, production system, breeding practices, producers\' trait preferences, adaptation traits, and the multipurpose roles of the goat under consideration.','-','Sandeep Singh, Amit Kumar, Simran Kaur and Heenashree Mansion (2023). Study the Breeding Practices using by Goat Keepers in the Pratapgarh District of Rajasthan. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 15(8): 443-446.'),(7198,'162','Insecticides use Pattern in Bitter Gourd Momordica charantia L., at Western Region of Tamil Nadu','Naga Rani Ch., K.N. Ragumoorthi, M. Suganthy, B. Vinothkumar, T. Elaiyabharathi and T. Saraswathi \r\n','Insecticides-use-Pattern-in-Bitter-Gourd-Momordica-charantia-L-at-Western-Region-of-Tamil-Nadu-KN-Ragumoorthi-74.pdf','',1,'An extensive survey was carried out to record the extent of insecticide usage to control major pests of bitter gourd in five major bitter gourd cultivating blocks of Coimbatore District in Tamil Nadu, India. The information was gathered from fifty progressive bitter gourd cultivating farmers from selected locations. The results revealed that farmers used thirty six different insecticides and seven insecticide mixtures to manage major pests such as fruit fly, gall fly and jassids in bitter gourd. Among insecticides the usage of imidacloprid 17.8 SL was more (94.40 %) in the bitter gourd ecosystem followed by spinetoram 11.7 SC (83.70 %), flonicamid 50WG (60.60 %), chlorantraniliprole 18.5 SC (49.40 %), spinosad 45 SC (56.00 %) and bifenthrin10 EC (45.90 %). Insecticide mixture spirotetramat 11.01 + imidacloprid 11.01 SC - 240 SC was used by more than 25 per cent of the bitter gourd growers in different locations. Survey results revealed that, almost 90.49 per cent of farmers were using power sprayer for spraying operation and 85.88 per cent farmers spray insecticides at morning hours and about 65.97 mean per cent farmers spray insecticides at an interval of 6 to 7 days. Hardly few farmers (21.5 %) executed spraying based on the status of pest infestation, 91.05 per cent farmers disposed the waste containers in the neglected areas and 92.16 per cent farmers not aware of label information. The primary source of information for insecticide spray was retail shop owners (62.22 %) and 73.45 per cent of farmers did not follow any safety precautions like wearing a safety apron, masks or gloves while taking spraying operation. The survey revealed that even though farmers had an adequate knowledge in mixing and measuring insecticides, they were a bit less aware of the recommended insecticides, dosage, safe harvest intervals, label claims, and personnel protection during spray operations.','Bitter gourd, Survey, Insecticides use pattern, Imidacloprid, Disposal','The majority of pesticides used by the farmers were not having label claim or unregistered to bitter gourd. Hence the fate of insecticides in the environment and harvested produce were unknown. There is huge scope to increase the farmer’s knowledge level in choosing recommended insecticides, their dosage, waiting period, label claim and personnel protection during spray operation. Our study necessitates the importance of training to the farmers by means of field demonstrations to enhance the proper information about pest management.','-','Naga Rani Ch., K.N. Ragumoorthi, M. Suganthy, B. Vinothkumar, T. Elaiyabharathi and T. Saraswathi (2023). Insecticides use Pattern in Bitter Gourd Momordica charantia L., at Western Region of Tamil Nadu. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 15(8): 447-453.'),(7199,'162','Character Association Studies, Direct and Indirect Effects on Fruit Yield in Segregating Generation of Ridge gourd (Luffa acutangula (L.) Roxb.)','Y. Sravani, G. Kranthi Rekha, C. Venkata Ramana, L. Naram Naidu and D.R. Salomi Suneetha ','Character-Association-Studies,-Direct-and-Indirect-Effects-on-Fruit-Yield-In-Segregating-Generation-of-Ridge-gourd-(Luffa-acutangula-(L.)-Roxb.)-Y-Sravani-75.pdf','',1,'The current exploration was carried out to determine the correlation among the yield and its attributing traits in ridge gourd and also the path analysis among four crosses of F2 population. The traits viz., number of fruits per vine, rind thickness, flesh thickness (cross 1, 2, 3 and 4), fruit set percentage, fruit length, fruit girth and fruit weight (cross 1, 2 and 3), number of male flowers per vine and number of seeds per fruit (cross 3 and 4) and days to male flowering, node of first male flower, node of first female flower and TSS (cross 4) had significant positive association with fruit yield per vine. A very high positive direct effect on fruit yield per vine was exerted by the traits viz., rind thickness and flesh thickness (cross 1, 3 and 4) and fruit girth (cross 2); high positive direct effect showed by average fruit weight (cross 1, 2, 3 and 4), per cent fruit set (cross 1, 2 and 4), number of female flowers per vine (cross 2) and number of fruits per vine (cross 3) in F2 generation of all the four crosses. Hence, direct selection of these traits would be rewarding. ','Ridge gourd, Correlation, Path analysis and Population','The positive effects indicated the stable performance against the environmental fluctuations and more emphasis could be given to those characters in selection of genotypes for high yield. Hence, direct selection for the traits would be rewarding. The character association and path analysis prompted that selection for fruit weight, fruit girth, rind thickness, flesh thickness, fruit set percentage, number of female flowers per vine and number of fruits per vine could be beneficial for improvement in fruit yield of ridge gourd.','-','Y. Sravani, G. Kranthi Rekha, C. Venkata Ramana, L. Naram Naidu and D.R. Salomi Suneetha (2023). Character Association Studies, Direct and Indirect Effects on Fruit Yield in Segregating Generation of Ridge gourd (Luffa acutangula (L.) Roxb.). Biological Forum – An International Journal, 15(8): 454-465.'),(7200,'136','Streamflow Simulation of Brahmani River Basin using SWAT Model','Sonali Swagatika, Jagdish Chandra Paul, Ambika Prasad Sahu, Dwarika Mohan Das and Alok Kumar Patra ','Streamflow Simulation of Brahmani River Basin using SWAT Model-Sonali Swagatika-292.pdf','',1,'A popular semi-distributed model for watershed hydrological study is the Soil and Water Assessment Tool (SWAT). The SWAT-CUP model\'s uncertainty analysis capability now has the ability to integrate ParaSol, Sequential Uncertainty Fitting (SUFI-2), Generalized Likelihood Uncertainty Estimation (GLUE), Particle Swarm Optimisation, and Markov Chain Monte Carlo (MCMC) into a single platform. In the current work, the SWAT model was calibrated for the years 1994 to 2005 while using the first three years as a warm-up phase (1990 to 1993) and validated for monthly streamflow simulation from 2006 to 2015. For Bramhani River Basin the SUFI-2 technique was used for the uncertainty analysis was performance. For sensitivity analysis, ten notable parameters were chosen. Nash-Sutcliffe Efficiency (NSE), the coefficient of determination (R2), and Percentage BIAS (PBIAS) were used to evaluate the model\'s performance on a monthly time scale streamflow simulation. The P and R variables were utilized to determine how much ambiguity there was. During the calibration period, the values of NSE, R2, and PBIAS were determined to be 0.80, 0.81, and -0.08; and for the validation period, they were 0.72, 0.76, and -0.17, respectively. During calibration, the P and R factor values were observed to be 0.77 and 0.89, respectively, and 0.86 and 0.82, respectively, during the validation period. During the calibration and validation periods, the simulated streamflow is also well matched within the 95 percent prediction uncertainty (95PPU) range of the SUFI-2 method, suggesting an acceptable performance of the model under parameter uncertainty. ','SWAT, SUFI-2, Streamflow, uncertainty analysis, sensitivity parameter','The current study demonstrates how to utilise the SWAT model to simulate streamflow catchment of the Indian Brahmani River Basin, identify the parameters that are most sensitive, and quantify model parameter uncertainty using the SUFI-2 method. The pre-calibration uncertainty analysis resulted in the identification and ranking of sensitive parameters. The statistics show that nine variables are very sensitive and significantly affect streamflow. The soil conservation service curve number for AMC II factor has been shown to be the most sensitive parameter for the Brahmani river basin. The model\'s monthly streamflow simulation during the streamflow calibration by SUFI-2 was found to have excellent NSE, R2, and PBIAS values. These numbers were, respectively, 0.80, 0.81, and -0.08. The model performance is reassuringly sufficient, as evidenced by the validation\'s NSE, R2, and PBIAS values of 0.72, 0.76, and -0.17, respectively. Given the parameter uncertainty, the model performance is rather good, as indicated by P and R factor values of 0.77 and 0.89 during calibration and 0.86 and 0.82 throughout the validation period, respectively. The results of the model simulation indicate that the SWAT model may be successfully applied for streamflow simulation under parameter uncertainty in an ungauged watershed.','-','Sonali Swagatika, Jagdish Chandra Paul, Ambika Prasad Sahu, Dwarika Mohan Das and Alok Kumar Patra (2022). Streamflow Simulation of Brahmani River Basin using SWAT Model. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 14(3): 1707-1714.'),(7201,'162','Identification of Wound Responsive Genes in Brassica juncea by Transcriptome Analysis','Sandesh Waghmare and Anita Grover','Identification-of-Wound-Responsive-Genes-in-Brassica-juncea-by-Transcriptome-Analysis-Sandesh-Waghmare-76.pdf','',1,'Brassica juncea (L.) is economically important oilseed crop, next to groundnut, due to its high oil content and superior oil quality. Wounding caused due to agricultural practices and insect attack is the most common stress, resulting in extensive loss of vegetative tissues. To understand the mechanism of wound response in B. juncea wound treatment was given and samples were collected at three different time point intervals (control and wound samples). RNAs of all three-time points interval was pooled together and RNA sequencing was done. RNA sequencing gave transcriptome data, in B juncea 1503 genes were upregulated and 1769 genes were downregulated genes (DEGs). In this study transcriptome analysis of wounded B. juncea deciphered the upregulation of stress proteins including vegetative cell wall protein gp1-like, protein MLP1-like isoform X1, F-box/LRR-repeat protein 7, protein TIFY 10B, myb-like protein Xin wounded B. juncea compared to control B. juncea. Transcription factor bHLH92, bHLH149, bHLH74, WRKY transcription factor 6-like, WRKY transcription factor 18-like, 75, transcription factor MYB6-like and transcription factor PosF21, signalling kinases like mitogen-activated protein kinase ANP1-like, serine/threonine-protein kinase NAK, receptor like protein kinase S.2-like, glycerol kinase-like, serine/threonine-protein kinase Nek6, metabolite synthesizing enzymes cellulose synthase, galactinol-sucrose galactosyltransferase 2, callose synthase 5, flavonol synthase/flavanone 3-hydroxylase were upregulated in wounded B. juncea compared to control B. juncea. ROS scavenging enzymes, methionine sulfoxide reductase A4, glutathione S-transferase U24, peroxidase 71, L-ascorbate peroxidase 1, catalase were upregulated while superoxide dismutase catalase-2 and catalase-3 were down regulated in wounded B. juncea compared to control leaves. Upregulation of these significant genes suggests that they have potential role in wound stress recovery and these genes can be employed for transgenic crop development.','B. juncea, wound stress, Transcription factors, MAP kinases, ROS','The transcriptome analysis of the wounded B. juncea revealed the upregulation of genes encoding a wide array of proteins involved in signalling, defense, and metabolic processes. In response to wounding plant produces signals that rapidly activate MAPK. These MAPK signalling proteins could be activated by reactive oxygen species. MAPK and receptor kinases were found to be upregulated in the wound transcriptome. Wounding in plant results in the activation and transcription of genes coding for proteins involved in numerous cellular and molecular functions. Signalling kinases, stress-related proteins, transcription factors, metabolic enzymes and ROS scavenging enzymes together interplay vital role to recover damage caused by wounding.','-','Sandesh Waghmare and Anita Grover (2023). Identification of Wound Responsive Genes in Brassica juncea by Transcriptome Analysis. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 15(8): 466-469.'),(7202,'159','Prevalence of malnutrition among children under five years in rural areas of Salem district, Tamilnadu','Arul B., Shankar. R., Jansalna Jamal, Jesna Raji George, Jincy P. James and Kothai R.','Prevalence-of-malnutrition-among-children-under-five-years-in-rural-areas-of-Salem-district,-Tamilnadu-Arul-B.-118.pdf','',1,'Prevalence measures the occurrence of any health condition, exposure or other factors related to health. Malnutrition among under five children in India is a major public health problem and the study was aimed to determine the prevalence of malnutrition among children under five years in rural areas of Salem District, Tamil Nadu. A Cross-sectional study was conducted among 100 children under five years in rural areas of Salem District. 47 children were Female and 53 were Male, among these 29 comes under Severe Acute Malnutrition (SAM) and 48 comes under Mild-Moderate malnutrition. The Stunting ratio was observed to be 68, Underweight and wasting ratio was found to be 76. Majority of the children with malnutrition were found with multiple co-morbidities, associated risk factors - poverty, unhygienic sanitation and on clinical examination children with thin-sparse and brown hair leads the most on evaluation regarding malnutrition. From this study, it was concluded that among the study population, more than half of the children were more prone to malnutrition, the overall prevalence of malnutrition in our study population is found to be 0.77%.','Malnutrition, SAM, Mild-Moderate malnutrition, Co-morbidities','From this study, it was concluded that among the study population, more than half of the children were more prone to malnutrition because of their inappropriate lifestyle due to poverty, inappropriate diet of the child and the nursing mother, family history and other co morbidities. In order to reduce these risk factors, the government is providing different kinds of nutritious foods and other supplements via different Anganwadi centers. By conducting several surveys like these, government should be able to know the number of children who were affected or who were prone to malnutrition. Thereby, they can easily provide sufficient therapeutic food and other vital supplements (ORS, Vitamin A paediatric oral solution, Albendazole tablets, Zinc sulfate Tablets, Iron and Folic Acid) to respective Anganwadi thereby to children in different rural areas.','-','Arul B., Shankar. R., Jansalna Jamal, Jesna Raji George, Jincy P. James and Kothai R. (2023). Prevalence of malnutrition among children under five years in rural areas of Salem district, Tamilnadu. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 15(6): 777-780.'),(7203,'159','Effect of Picrorhiza kurroa Royle ex Benth ethanolic root extract on Cardio protection against methotrexate induced myocardial infarction in rats','Ramalakshmi Y.V.A., Manibalan V. and Manivannan E.','Effect-of-Picrorhiza-kurroa-Royle-ex-Benth-ethanolic-root-extract-on-Cardio-protection-against-methotrexate-induced-myocardial-infarction-in-rats-Ramalakshmi-119.pdf','',1,'The purpose of this research was to examine whether Picrorhiza kurroa Royle ex Benth (ERPK) root extracts could prevent Methotrexate (MTX)-induced heart damage in rats. Methotrexate (20 mg/100g, s.c.) was administered twice at 24-hour intervals to the animals. Analysis of electrocardiogram (ECG) parameters, serum marker enzymes, and cardiac histology were used to determine cardio-protective efficacy. P wave, QRS complex, and R-R interval all increased significantly (P< 0.001) after pretreatment with 200 and 400mg/kg of ERPK, whereas heart rate, QT interval, and cardiac cycle remained within acceptable ranges. All of the diagnostic indicators assessed for ERPK were significantly (P <0.05; P< 0.001) lower in that group than in the MTX-treated group. The protective function of ERPK was substantiated by histological examinations of cardiac tissue alterations. These findings imply that ERPK therapy before MTX plays a crucial role in preventing MTX-induced myocardial infarction in rats.','Picrorhiza kurroa, Methotrexate, ECG, Marker enzyme, Cardioprotective','The present investigation demonstrated that fractions of the root of Picrorhiza kurroa protected myocardium from the structural and functional damage caused by Methotrexate. ERPK was shown to include flavonoids, tannins, and phenolics in the phytochemical analyses. The existence of these bioactive components and their synergistic capabilities may account for the cardio-protective activity of ERPK. The cardio-protective activity may also occur because beta-adrenergic receptor stimulation is inhibited, which reduces the production of reactive oxygen species and keeps the myocardial membranes healthy. The present study\'s findings support the use of Picrorhiza kurroa as a cardio-protective agent by showing that its extracts restored normal levels of electrophysiological, biochemical, and histopathological parameters in experimental rats given Methotrexate.','-','Ramalakshmi Y.V.A., Manibalan V. and Manivannan E. (2023). Effect of Picrorhiza kurroa Royle ex Benth ethanolic root extract on Cardio protection against methotrexate induced myocardial infarction in rats. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 15(6): 781-786.'),(7204,'159','Self-medication Practice of community of Eraviperoor Grama panchayath of Pathanamthitta District in Kerala','Jayakumar K. S., Arul, B. Philip Jacob and Kothai, R. \r\n','Self-medication-Practice-of-community-of-Eraviperoor-Grama-panchayath-of-Pathanamthitta-District-in-Kerala-Jayakumar-120.pdf','',1,'Self-Medication Practice (SMP) is the habit of consuming medication without a healthcare professional prescription. The key drive of this study is to identify the area of education required to reduce risk among patients on self-medication and to find the type of disease for which self-medication is most commonly practiced. The present study was a cross-sectional study conducted in a community of 250 people in Eraviperoor Grama panchayath of Pathanamthitta District in Kerala for 6 months. From this study it was able to identify that self-medication practice was more among the younger population, even though they know that self-medication is unsafe and their perception is that they are benefited from it. Among the categories of OTC medication that have been preferred for self-medication, it was found that analgesics, analgesics, gastrointestinal medications, antihistamines, and cough syrup were the most popular. Previous experience with the disease was found to be the main motivating factor for self-medication and the feeling that it is simple. Most commonly, self-medication was used for diseases with moderate symptoms that last for more than three days. The patients gather information about the drug only when they buy medication for the first time. Refilling of antimicrobials was done after consultation with a physician or a pharmacist, but this was not practiced in case of lifestyle diseases.','Self Medication Practice, Patient counseling, Pathanamthitta, OTC drugs','Insecure use and consumption of drugs can lead to harmful effects such as adverse drug reactions, drug resistance, and unwanted financial expenditure. The attitude of the public towards self-medication such as consideration of disease as simple and taking medication with previous experience without the directions of qualified health care professionals should have to be changed. The public should have to be made aware of the threats of self-medication and emerging antimicrobial resistance for this steps such as seminars or educational campaigns to reduce the irrational use of drugs should have to be conducted.','-','Jayakumar K. S., Arul, B. Philip Jacob and Kothai, R. (2023). Self-medication Practice of community of Eraviperoor Grama panchayath of Pathanamthitta District in Kerala. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 15(6): 787-790.'),(7205,'159','Evaluation of Bacteriological Profiles and Antibiotic Sensitivity Patterns in Children Under Age 5 Years with Acute Gastroenteritis','Arul B., Prathiba M., Vaishnav V., Vinitha M. and Kothai R.','Evaluation-of-Bacteriological-Profiles-and-Antibiotic-Sensitivity-Patterns-in-Children-Under-Age-5-Years-with-Acute-Gastroenteritis-Vinitha-121.pdf','',1,'Acute Gastroenteritis is an inflammation of the gastrointestinal tract’s mucous membranes that causes vomiting and/or diarrhoea. The main aim of this study is to evaluate the bacteriological profiles and antibiotic sensitivity patterns in children under the age of 5 years with acute gastroenteritis. This retrospective study was carried out for 6 months from November 2020 to April 2021 in which 150 patients were selected for the study by considering the inclusion and exclusion criteria. A total of 150 children were analyzed in positive culture reports of acute gastroenteritis. Out of the total number of patients analyzed males (65.3%) children were more affected by acute gastroenteritis than females (34.7%). Patients in the age group of 25-36 months were mostly found to have gastroenteritis. Fever was the most common presenting symptom in our study along with diarrhoea (52%). The study shows that the prevalence of acute gastroenteritis was mostly present in patients with positive culture reports for E.coli (34%) organisms. Among 150 patients most of them were prescribed Metronidazole (25.3%) and third generation cephalosporin was the most frequently prescribed antibiotic in the ranges of 1 to 2 antibiotics (69.3%). The European Society for pediatric infectious disease guidelines make stronger recommendations for the use of probiotics for the management of acute gastroenteritis based on the option of “Doing the Least”: oral rehydration therapy, early refeeding, and no unnecessary drugs.','Acute gastroenteritis, Children, bacteriological profile, Antibiotics','Acute Gastroenteritis is the most common viral or bacterial infection affecting children. It is more common in males than in females. The most common organism that causes AGE is E. coli, Rotavirus/Norviruses followed by Campylobacter coli/jejuni, Shigella, salmonella spp, etc. The risk of AGE occurring before 5 years is around 6-8% in boys and 2-4% in girls. Diarrhoea is one of the most common symptoms of AGE. AGE should be suspected in any infant or child with diarrhoea without focus beyond three days. The clinical features depend upon the age and severity of AGE. Neonates show features of vomiting, diarrhoea, fever, and abdominal pain. A retrospective study of 150 patients was done to evaluate bacteria-causing AGE and antibiotic sensitivity patterns in the tertiary care hospital and some padiatric departments of other hospitals in Salem. Pathogenic Escherichia coli is the most common cause of Acute Gastroenteritis in children. Salmonella, Shigella, Yersinia, Campylobacter, and Clostridium difficile are the other organisms identified. ','-','Arul B., Prathiba M., Vaishnav V., Vinitha M. and Kothai R. (2023). Evaluation of bacteriological profiles and antibiotic sensitivity patterns in children under age 5 years with acute gastroenteritis. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 15(6): 791-794.'),(7206,'159','Pyrazinamide-Loaded Pegylated Polypropylene Imine Dendritic Architecture for Reducing Haemolytic Toxicity','Valli Manalan. B., Arul. B. and Kothai','Pyrazinamide-Loaded-Pegylated-Polypropylene-Imine-Dendritic-Architecture-for-Reducing-Haemolytic-Toxicity-VALLI-MANALAN-122.pdf','',1,'The purpose of the current study was to construct a Pyrazinamide loaded PEGylated fifth generation (5.0G) Poly (Propylene) Imine (PPI) dendrimer and compare its potential haemolytic toxicity. Pyrazinamide (PZA) is a drug that is used to treat Tuberculosis (TB). The dendrimers exhibit superior performance in targeted drug delivery, yet haemolytic toxicity produced by dendrimers can cause acute renal failure. Henceforth, the present research researches the synthesis of dendrimers along with enhanced biocompatibility that aids in reducing haemolytic toxicity concerning dendrimers-mediated drug delivery. The free 5.0G PPI dendrimer, synthesised Pyrazinamide loaded PEGylated fifth generation PPI dendrimer, and PEGylated 5.0G PPI dendrimer are considered as subjects of haemolytic toxicity investigation. UV-spectrophotometric analysis at 269 nm (n=3) calculated the amount of liberated haemoglobin from RBC, and the haemolysis degree was equated with it. Several research findings have revealed that PEGylation is suitable for modifying the core Ethylene Diamine (EDA)-PPI dendrimers of ethylene diamine initiator. According to comparative haemolytic toxicity experiments, the toxicity of free dendrimer was found to be 20.39 0.82, PEGylated dendrimer was 2.72 1.10, and Pyrazinamide loaded PEGylated 5.0G PPI dendrimer was 1.420.52 each. In this work, synthetic systems\' haemolytic toxicity levels are lower and can provide bio-actives. Finally, this study conducted ex vivo and in vivo experiments and proved that haemolytic toxicity is reduced in Pyrazinamide Loaded PEGylated 5.0G PPI Dendrimers and drug circulation time is maximised.','PPI dendrimers, Pyrazinamide, drug delivery, Haemolytic toxicity, PEGylation','Dendrimers emerge as excellent drug carriers, but their toxicity limits their usage in the medical field. Hence, the research on haemolytic toxicity will be of greater significance for the safe application of dendrimers as the drug carrier system. Dendrimers toxicity relies upon various factors such as generation, size, surface charge, etc. Among the classes of dendrimers, PPI dendrimer remains the most recognised one. In addition to it, dendrimers can improve drug efficiency. Several types of research are being conducted to reduce the haemolytic toxicity in dendrimers by introducing various chemical modifications upon the surface. Hence, this research utilises the pyrazinamide drug, which is used for treating tuberculosis and is loaded into the PPI dendrimer to enhance its efficacy and decrease dendrimer toxicity. The PEGylation is discovered as the appropriate surface modification technique to reduce the haemolytic toxicity in 5.0G PPI dendrimer. The study utilises the EDA as the initiator core for synthesising 5.0G PPI dendrimer and finally loaded the Pyrazinamide. Hence, the Pyrazinamide loaded. PEGylated 5.0 G PPI exhibits low toxicity compared to the free fifth-generation PPI and PEGylated PPI dendrimer. Also, the study was conducted in vivo. Ex vivo experiments revealed lower toxicity levels in Pyrazinamide loaded PEGylated 5.0 G PPI. Through this synthesis.','-','Valli Manalan. B., Arul. B. and Kothai (2023). Pyrazinamide-Loaded Pegylated Polypropylene Imine Dendritic Architecture for Reducing Haemolytic Toxicity. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 15(6): 795-800.'),(7207,'162','Response of Date of Sowing and Crop Geometry on Yield Potential of Chia under Tropical conditions','Anjali Jingar, Manpreet Singh Preet, Anuj Kumar and Moola Ram ','Response-of-Date-of-Sowing-and-Crop-Geometry-on-Yield-Potential-of-Chia-under-Tropical-conditions-Anjali-Jingar-77.pdf','',1,'Import of oilseed crops has increased tremendously from the last few decades due to less production and productivity of crops of brassicaceae family. Introduction of new crop was the need of hour so as to get an alternate option for other oilseed crops. The experiment was laid out in Factorial Randomized Block design assigning date of sowing (Factor A), plant geometry (Factor B) with three replications to assess the effect of date of sowing and plant geometry performance of Chia. The experiment was conducted at Experimental farm, Agriculture Research Station, Mandor-Jodhpur (Agricultural University, Jodhpur) in the year 2016-17. Factor A consisted of Four different date of sowing viz., 25th October (D1), 5th November (D2), 15th November (D3) and 25th November(D4) and factor B consisted of four varying plant geometry viz., 30 cm × 30 cm (P1), 45 cm × 30 cm (P2), 60 cm × 45 cm (P3) 90 cm × 45 cm (P4). Data on biological yield revealed 25th October as best date of sowing of Chia (13505.49 kg ha-1). On the other hand, plant geometry of 30 cm × 30 cm (P1) also recorded highest values for biological yield (20226.35 kg ha-1). Consequently, data on seed and husk yield per hectare revealed that 25th October (D1) date of sowing and plant geometry with 45 cm × 30 cm (P2) recorded significantly higher seed yield and husk yield per hectare than rest of the treatments.','chia, biological yield, crop spacing. Husk','– Biological yield per hectare was recorded maximum with D1 (25th October sowing) and P1 (closer spacing of 30 cm × 30 cm) which was significantly higher over rest of treatments.\r\n– Seed and husk yield per hectare was found maximum with D1 (25thOctober sowing) which was significantly higher over rest of dates of sowing. Among plant geometry, P2 (45 cm × 30 cm) recorded significantly higher seed and husk yield per hectare followed by P1 (30 cm × 30 cm).\r\n','-','Anjali Jingar, Manpreet Singh Preet, Anuj Kumar and Moola Ram (2023). Response of Date of Sowing and Crop Geometry on Yield Potential of Chia under Tropical conditions. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 15(8): 470-473.'),(7208,'150','A Study on the Bird Diversity of Shergarh Wildlife Sanctuary District, Baran, Rajasthan, India','Arun Kumar Jatav, A.K. Sharma and Smriti Johari ','A-Study-on-the-Bird-Diversity-of-Shergarh-Wildlife-Sanctuary-District,-Baran,-Rajasthan,-India-Arun-Kumar-Jatav-120.pdf','',1,'A study on bird diversity was conducted in Shergarh Wildlife Sanctuary, Baran district, Rajasthan, from January 2022 to December 2022 to analyze the avian diversity along with its status and abundance. Over the course of the study, 78 species from different types of orders, families, and genera were identified. A checklist of bird species was prepared, covering an area of about 2 km on the bank of the Parvan, a part of Shergarh Wildlife Sanctuary. Various bird species were listed in the green space, wetland, and terrestrial areas of the region. The area is home to a variety of plant species that contribute in various ways to the richness of bird species. This area includes IUCN and Red Data Book species, common species, and seasonal species. The review here highlights the various aspects of bird diversity that were cataloged over the months and will form the basis for further research. It is intended that the study will be helpful in drawing the attention of the public and state government towards the conservation of the Shergarh Wildlife Sanctuary and the protection of its avian fauna.','Shergarh, Wildlife Sanctuary, bird diversity, Red Data Book species','It is revealed that a total of 78 species of birds were observed. The Shergarh Wildlife Sanctuary features a diverse flora and wildlife, as well as an important bird-attracting wetland area. Anthropogenic issues like as habitat fragmentation and degradation, tourism pressure, and water scarcity during the summer season pose risks to this bird faunae. Furthermore, herds of Nilgai (Boselaphus tragocamelus), stray dogs, and wild cattle trampled the chicks and eggs of water birds in this sanctuary. The conservation of avian species will be dependent on a better understanding of ecological requirements and the quantity of visitor birds. More surveys and detailed studies in different seasons will be beneficial in developing conservation plans for this sanctuary and wetland birds in general.','-','Arun Kumar Jatav, A.K. Sharma and Smriti Johari (2023). A Study on the Bird Diversity of Shergarh Wildlife Sanctuary District, Baran, Rajasthan, India. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 15(3): 771-777.'),(7209,'162','Bioefficacy of Seaweed Coating Formulation on Seed Quality and Biochemical Attributes in Barnyard Millet Var. MDU 1','A. Madhan Kumar, K. Sujatha, V. Alex Albert, G. Anand and M. L. Mini','Bioefficacy-of-Seaweed-Coating-Formulation-on-Seed-Quality-and-Biochemical-Attributes-in-Barnyard-Millet-Var.-MDU-1-A-Madhan-Kumar-78.pdf','',1,'Biological seed coating entails a novel method of seed treatment, involving the application of biological agents on the seed exterior to manage both seed-borne and soil-borne pathogens and also improve the seed vigour. It is a process of applying useful materials to form a continuous layer of thin coating over the seed without altering its shape or size by employing water as the solvent. By encasing the seed within a thin film of biodegradable polymer, the adherence of seed treatment to the seed is improved. The fluctuating and uneven rainfall patterns with changing environmental conditions, negatively impact the establishment of crops and affect the seed quality. In order to address that, an experiment was conducted to study the effect of seaweed coating on physiological seed quality and biochemical parameters in the laboratory of the Department of Seed Science and Technology, AC & RI Madurai during 2023. The treatments encompassing control, T1-10mlkg-1, T2-15mlkg-1, T3-20mlkg-1, T4-25mlkg-1 and T5-30mlkg-1. Coated seeds were evaluated for seed quality and biochemical parameters. The result of the present investigation revealed that, seeds that are coated @ 20mlkg-1 were found to be superior in terms of seed quality and biochemical parameters.','Seaweed, coating, formulation, vigour, seed quality and biochemical parameters','Among the treatments, seeds coated @ 20mlkg-1 recorded better results on physiological and biochemical parameters. It can be concluded that seaweed coated seeds @ 20mlkg-1 could be effective and can be used as a pre sowing seed treatment.','-','A. Madhan Kumar, K. Sujatha, V. Alex Albert, G. Anand and M. L. Mini (2023). Bioefficacy of Seaweed Coating Formulation on Seed Quality and Biochemical Attributes in Barnyard Millet Var. MDU 1. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 15(8): 474-477.'),(7210,'151','Exploring the Potential of Integrated Farming System for Sustainable Agriculture','Subrat Pattanaik and Arati Priyadarshini','Exploring the Potential of Integrated Farming System for Sustainable Agriculture-Subrat Pattanaik-9.pdf','',1,'The concept of Integrated Farming Systems (IFS) has gained considerable attention in modern agriculture due to its potential to create sustainable and efficient farming practices. IFS involves the integration of multiple agricultural activities, such as crop cultivation, livestock rearing, aquaculture, and agroforestry, within a single cohesive system. This abstract explores the principles and benefits of IFS, highlighting its capacity to optimize resource utilization, enhance soil health, mitigate risks through diversification, and promote environmental sustainability. By fostering synergies and interactions between different components, IFS offers a holistic approach to farming that can address challenges related to food security, land degradation, and climate change. The abstract also delves into the challenges and opportunities associated with the implementation of IFS, emphasizing the need for knowledge dissemination, infrastructure development, and support for farmers to embrace this integrated approach. In conclusion, IFS holds promise as a transformative paradigm in agriculture, offering a viable pathway to ensure food security, economic prosperity, and ecological harmony for a sustainable future.','IFS, Sustainability, Livelihood, Challenges, Advantages','The concept of Integrated Farming Systems (IFS) holds immense potential for transforming India\'s agricultural landscape. By combining diverse agricultural practices within a single system, IFS offers a pathway towards sustainable, efficient, and resilient farming. The evidence suggests that the adoption of IFS can lead to resource optimization, improved soil health, risk mitigation through diversification, and enhanced productivity. Furthermore, the integration of livestock, crops, aquaculture, and agro forestry can contribute to environmental sustainability by promoting nutrient recycling, reducing chemical inputs, and mitigating the adverse impacts of climate change. As India faces the challenges of food security, land degradation, and climate change, the promotion and widespread adoption of IFS could play a crucial role in addressing these pressing issues and securing a prosperous future for Indian farmers.\r\nHowever, realizing the full potential of Integrated Farming Systems in India requires concerted efforts from various stakeholders. Policymakers need to devise supportive agricultural policies that incentivize the adoption of IFS and provide necessary financial and technical assistance to farmers. Research institutions must continue to develop and disseminate knowledge about the best practices and technologies for IFS implementation. Additionally, there is a need for capacity building and training programs to equip farmers with the necessary skills and expertise to effectively manage integrated farming systems. By fostering a collaborative and inclusive approach, India can harness the benefits of IFS to achieve sustainable agriculture, rural development, and environmental conservation, ultimately paving the way for a more secure and prosperous future in the Indian agricultural sector.\r\n','-','-'),(7211,'151','Priorities and Precautions apropos Chat GPT in Academia with especial reference to Agricultural Education','Sudhanand Prasad Lal, Abhinab Borah and Darathee Das','Priorities-and-Precautions-apropos-Chat-GPT-in-Academia-with-especial-reference-to-Agricultural-Education-Sudhanand-Prasad-Lal-10.pdf','',1,'ChatGPT was launched on November 2022 and it didn’t take them much long to become a global sensation. An AI chatbot so dynamic and powerful that made corporates like Google and Microsoft to launch their own AI models to compete with ChatGPT. It took them just 5 days to reach 1 million user mark which is an incredible feat because even platforms like Facebook and Instagram took months to reach 1 million user mark. Various statistics showing the time required by prominent social media platforms to reach 1 million visits as against ChatGPT has been shown. ChatGPT has become very popular among the students of various education levels and here an attempt is made to study the pattern of use of ChatGPT among students. The level of satisfaction was also measured on a 0-9 continuum and its descriptive statistics are shown. Like everything else in the world, even ChatGPT comes with a lot of limitations. Working with ChatGPT is like trying to solve a puzzle blindfolded if we aren’t properly aware of the capabilities and incapabilities of the functioning of ChatGPT. A pretty good example of it is the professor from Texas University who failed the entire class after ChatGPT confirmed that the assignments he gave were done using ChatGPT. Some primary and some secondary data have been collected apropos limitations of ChatGPT which have been stated below.','ChatGPT, ICBLE-2023, Blended learning, Level of satisfaction, Alex Twinomugisha','ChatGPT is undeniably the fastest growing and the most popular AI chat bot that has made it to the market. It’s easy to use and fast answer generating capacity in such short span of time has made it the most popular chat bot among students and enthusiasts. Therefore, an attempt was made to study the usability pattern of ChatGPT among students and research scholars and it was found out that they mostly use it to take assistance in preparing their assignments followed by General Information seeking and Inquisitiveness. A study was also conducted to record the satisfaction level of users of ChatGPT on a 0-9 continuum and the mean value came out to be 6.4 which means there is scope for improvement. Later in the paper, we have discussed some of the cases which shows the limitation of ChatGPT like having no information base after September 2021. Handling ChatGPT with carelessness can also have devastating effect on the careers of students and scholars. Examples/Cases has been discussed in brief. ','-','-'),(7212,'162','Hydro-chemical Assessment of Groundwater Quality in Part of Jodhpur District, Rajasthan India','Shankar Lal Bijarnia, Ranjeet Singh, A.S. Godara, R.K. Jakhar, Harish Kumar Bijarnia and Arun Pratap Singh','Hydro-chemical-Assessment-of-Groundwater-Quality-in-Part-of-Jodhpur-District,-Rajasthan-India-Shankar-Lal-Bijarnia-79.pdf','',1,'Underground water is one of the most important resources for plant growth and development. Determination underground water quality is important tool observe the suitability of water for use a particular area. An investigation was carried out to assessment of hydro-chemical properties of underground water quality in part of Jodhpur district, Rajasthan and 182 sites from 88 villages of 6 tehsils of south eastern part of district were collected during December 2021 and analysed for hydro chemical behavior. Among different cations, the order of dominance of different cations was Na+, Mg2+, Ca2+ and K+ and average content of these cations was 27.89, 9.05, 5.45 and 0.31 me L-1, respectively. The mean anion content of south part of Jodhpur was 24.51, 12.14, 5.28 and 1.26 for Cl-, HCO3-, SO4-2 and CO3-2, respectively. Mostly water quality parameter like good, marginally saline and high SAR saline depends on theses cation and anion ion. ','Underground water, Cations, Anions, Jodhpur region','In various degrees, all of the water contains dissolved salts. When salts dissolve in water, they are divided into ions (cations and anions). In irrigation water, the main cations are calcium, magnesium, sodium, and potassium, and its anions are carbonate, bicarbonate, chloride, and sulphate. In general, sodium was found to be the most abundant cation in all irrigation water samples in the south-eastern parts of Jodhpur, followed by magnesium, calcium, and potassium. Chloride was shown to be the leading anion among anions, followed by bicarbonate, sulphate, and carbonate.','-','Shankar Lal Bijarnia, Ranjeet Singh, A.S. Godara, R.K. Jakhar, Harish Kumar Bijarnia and Arun Pratap Singh (2023). Hydro-chemical Assessment of Groundwater Quality in Part of Jodhpur District, Rajasthan India. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 15(8): 478-481.'),(7213,'163','Comparative Analysis of Bioactive compounds from Leaves Sample of Achyranthes aspera, their Pharmacological Studies, and their Importance in the Production of Silver Nanoparticles','Gobind Prasad and Pallavi Praveen','Comparative-Analysis-of-Bioactive-compounds-from-Leaves-Sample-of-Achyranthes-aspera,-their-Pharmacological-Studies,-and-their-Importance-in-the-Production-of-Silver-Nanoparticles-Gobind-Prasad-62.pdf','',1,'Acyranthus aspera, commonly called as Prickly Chaff flower, is found in India and the Indian subcontinent and is also widely found in other subcontinents of Africa, America and Australia. These plants are considered to be invasive alien plants, weeds, and non-commercial plants. Scientific investigations on the medicinal potential of Acyranthus are limited due to a lack of knowledge on the traditional ethnobotanical importance of these plants. In this present study, bioactive chemicals from Acyranthus aspera have been isolated and characterized, opening the door for their possible use in a wide range of scientific fields. Additionally, studies on the potential Acyranthus aspera plant extracts have produced excellent results in pharmacological studies, with their constituents demonstrating strong antibacterial action against a variety of diseases. These extracts are also appealing candidates for usage in the nutraceutical and cosmeceutical sectors due to their antioxidant and anti-inflammatory effects. The extracts were rich in pharmaceutical important metabolites such as alkaloid, flavonoid, phenol, carbohydrate, amino acid, saponin, tannin, terpenoid, coumarin, etc. Higher flavonoid content (84.89±1.47 equivalent to mM of Quercetin) was found in Hydro-alcoholic leaf extract. The aqueous extracts contained higher Phenol content (121.89 ±1.39 equivalent to mM of Gallic acid) than Hydro-alcoholic leaf extract. The extracts possessed antimicrobial, antioxidant, and anti-inflammatory activity. Both aqueous and Hydro-alcohol extract had the potential for green synthesis of silver nanoparticles. The silver nano-particles thus produced have variable sizes that range from 20nm to 200nm. The current Invitro studies make them promising candidates for a safer alternative to chemical-based drugs for anti-microbial, anti-oxidant, and anti-inflammatory activities. The potential of plant extract for the greener synthesis of silver nanoparticles enables them alternatives to discover and design new integrated drug targeting and drug delivery system.','Acyranthus aspera, Anti-inflammatory, Anti-oxidant, Anti-microbial, Flavonoids, Phenolics, Silver nanoparticles (AgNP)','Acyranthus aspera, a plant species rich in secondary metabolites, possesses immense potential across various scientific domains. Its widespread distribution in India, its ethnobotanical significance, and the diverse range of bioactive compounds the plant contains make it a compelling subject for further research. The exploration and utilization of plant extracts from Acyranthus aspera can contribute to the development of novel drugs, herbal remedies, and sustainable agricultural practices while providing unique solutions to the challenges faced in different industries. ','-','Gobind Prasad and Pallavi Praveen (2023). Comparative Analysis of Bioactive compounds from Leaves Sample of Achyranthes aspera, their Pharmacological Studies, and their Importance in the Production of Silver Nanoparticles. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 15(5a): 388-397.'),(7214,'162','Morphological and molecular characterisation of stubby root nematode (Paratrichodorus Siddiqi, 1974) parasitizing citrus (Citrus sp.) from IARI, New Delhi, India','Basant Deshwal','Morphological-and-molecular-characterisation-of-stubby-root-nematode-(Paratrichodorus-Siddiqi,-1974)-parasitizing-citrus-(Citrus-sp.)-from-IARI-New-Delhi-India-BASANT-DESHWAL-80.pdf','',1,'Populations of Paratrichodorus were collected from the root zones of citrus plants (Citrus sp.) cultivated at the Indian Agricultural Research Institute (IARI) farm in New Delhi. The study aimed to characterize these populations both morphologically and molecularly for accurate species identification. Morphology and morphometrics (21 females and 20 males) were studied and compared with the species described under the genus. The Paratrichodorus female population body lengths of 500.0-690.4 μm, with a = 16.5-22.6 and b = 4.5-6.2. Vulval position averaged at 47% of body length, while the Onchiostyle measured 28-39 μm. In contrast, Paratrichodorus males measured 498.2-645.2 μm, with a = 16.0-22.1 and b = 3.9-6.0. Their spicule length ranged from 30.1 to 36.9 μm, with an average of 32.9 μm. We considered the Paratrichodorus population is quite different from the known and described species. At the molecular level, amplified sequence fragments encompassing the 18S region for the Paratrichodorus isolate iari123. Subsequent phylogenetic analysis of the obtained 18S rRNA sequence (MZ567177) suggests a potential correlation with Paratrichodorus teres (Hooper, 1962) Siddiqi, 1974. This particular sequence has been formally submitted and documented in GenBank under the accession number MZ567177.','18S rRNA, Paratrichodorus, morphometrics','A population of Paratrichodorus recovered from the rhizosphere of citrus plants was attempted to characterize based on morphology, morphometrics, and molecular studies. Morphology and morphometrics (21 females and 20 males) were studied and compared with the species described under the genus. We considered the Paratrichodorus population is quite different from the known and described species. Further, we attempted to generate the molecular information for further characterization. The amplified sequence fragments of 18S for Paratrichodorus isolate iari123 were ca 800 bp. The sequence was submitted to GenBank under the accession number MZ567177 (18s rRNA). A BLAST search against the NCBI database showed that the 18s rRNA sequence of Paratrichodorus isolate iari123 was 98.08% identical with Paratrichodorus teres (KJ636338.1; query coverage = 99%, e-value = 0). However, 18s rRNA phylogenetic analysis has not resolved the identity of the species. Therefore, the population needs additional sequence information from the ITS-I & ITS-II of 18S, D2-D3 of 28S regions, and COI of mt DNA for confirmation of the species. ','-','Basant Deshwal (2023). Morphological and molecular characterisation of stubby root nematode (Paratrichodorus Siddiqi, 1974) parasitizing citrus (Citrus sp.) from IARI, New Delhi, India. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 15(8): 482-487.'),(7215,'148','Detection of Pantoea spp., an Emerging Pathogen of Rice through Multiplex PCR System','Biswajit Jena, A.K. Senapati and S.K. Behera','Detection of Pantoea spp an Emerging Pathogen of Rice through Multiplex PCR System-Biswajit Jena-108.pdf','',1,'The recent fluctuations in climate have introduced a novel challenge to rice cultivation, characterized by the occurrence of panicle blight and incomplete grain filling. A new causative agent was classified under the taxonomic genus Pantoea have been confirmed as the causative agents of leaf and grain blight disease in different rice growing regions of Odisha. A multiplex polymerase chain reaction (PCR) assay was developed with the purpose of differentiating various species within the Pantoea genus. A set of polymerase chain reaction (PCR) primers was designed to selectively detect the housekeeping genes, namely in fB, gyrB, and rpoB, in species P. agglomerans, P. ananatis, and P. stewartii. These primers were designed to have varying base pair compositions. A separate set of primers was developed to facilitate the identification of the at pD gene, a gene that is typically found in all Pantoea spp. Additionally, a universal set of primers was designed to amplify the 16S rRNA region, a region that is common among all the bacterial species. In the mPCR system, a total of five isolates were taken, namely BA1, BAL1, BP1, which were identified as Pantoea agglomerans, NP1, identified as Pantoea dispersa, and one Xoo bacterium. The polymerase chain reaction (PCR) was conducted, resulting in the formation of discrete bands measuring 1.5 kilobases (kb) for each of the isolates. Distinct bands were observed at a length of 330 base pairs (bp) during the amplification of the at pD gene in the four Pantoea isolates, with the exception of Xoo. The amplification of the inf B gene was conducted on the isolates of Pantoea agglomerans, resulting in the formation of distinct bands at 730 base pairs (bp) for the isolates BA1, BAL1, and BP1. The method employed in this study involved the utilisation of multiplex polymerase chain reaction (mPCR) to simultaneously amplify bacterial DNA using multiple sets of primers. The resulting distinct bands observed in the gel electrophoresis analysis allowed for the differentiation of various isolates, as well as the identification of Pantoea bacteria at the species level.','Pantoea agglomerans, Pantoea dispersa, mPCR, Xoo (Xanthomonas oryzae pv. oryzae','A new multiplex PCR scheme was developed to diagnose plant-pathogenic Pantoea spp. This tool enabled the efficient confirmation of the presence of Pantoea species mainly the Pantoea agglomerans in Odisha, which affecting rice production and productivity. When PCR was conducted, separate bands at 1.49 kb developed for each isolate. The atpD gene was amplified in distinct bands at 330 bp for all four Pantoea isolates except Xoo. Pantoea agglomerans isolates were amplified for the inf B gene, and separate bands for isolates BA1, BAL1, and BP1 appeared at 730 bp. In this manner, using mPCR, multiple sets of primers were utilized to concurrently amplify the bacterial DNA and separate bands were generated, differentiating Pantoea bacteria at the species level. This novel molecular diagnostic tool will aid in the correct identification of important Pantoea plant-pathogenic species. It will be particularly valuable for plant protection services and epidemiological monitoring of these major crop-threatening bacteria due to its reliability, specificity, sensitivity, and cost effectiveness.','-','Biswajit Jena, A.K. Senapati and S.K. Behera (2023). Detection of Pantoea spp., an Emerging Pathogen of Rice through Multiplex PCR System. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 15(1): 674-677.'),(7216,'162','Effect of Weather Parameters in Relation to Occurrence and Development of Leaf Blight (Alternaria macrospora) of Cotton','R. J. Chaudhari, M. M. Talpada, A. C. Detroja and S. N. Galani','Effect-of-weather-parameters-in-relation-to-occurrence-and-development-of-leaf-blight-(Alternaria-macrospora)-of-cotton-R-J-Chaudhari-81.pdf','',1,'In the present context, cotton farming in India is far from being a sustainable agricultural system. India is the second-largest producer of conventional cotton after China. More than 90% of the cotton is produced from genetically modified, pest-resistant, high yielding Bt cotton varieties. In relation to weather parameters, impact of different meteorological parameters on development of leaf blight on cotton, first leaf blight (Alternaria macrospora) symptoms were appeared on 37th and 39th standard meteorological week during 2020-21 and 2021-22, respectively. In correlation study, maximum temperature was non-significant with negative effect on leaf blight disease development in year 2020-21, while maximum temperature was also non-significant but positive effect leaf blight disease development in year 2021-22. Minimum temperature was non-significant with negative effect in year 2020-21 and 2021-22, respectively. Morning and evening relative humidity was significant and highly significant in both years, respectively and wind speed opposite to RH. Regression study, in year 2020-21 reflect that one per cent increase in morning relative humidity and wind speed led to corresponding decrease in per cent disease index of Alternaria blight in 2020-21 and 2021-22. This study focuses on impact of weather parameters on fungal foliar diseases and tackles the problem as well. Weather parameters play vital and crucial role in formation, development and multiplication of new virulence pathogen, so its challenges to researchers for identification of responsible different gene for it. ','Leaf blight, weather parameters, standard week, cotton','From the present investigation it is concluded that epidemiology study revealed that, how the climatic condition affects on leaf blight on cotton, weather parameters were checked with late blight disease intensity in year 2020-21 and 2021-22. First leaf blight symptoms were appeared on 37th standard meteorological week in 2020-21 and 39th standard meteorological week in 2021-22 on cotton crop with minimum disease intensity i.e. 4.00 and 3.5 per cent. In year 2020-21 and 2021-22 maximum leaf blight intensity was recorded in First week of November (45th SMW) 37.50 and 39.00 per cents, respectively. ','-','R. J. Chaudhari, M. M. Talpada, A. C. Detroja and S. N. Galani (2023). Effect of weather parameters in relation to occurrence and development of leaf blight (Alternaria macrospora) of cotton. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 15(8): 488-495.'),(7217,'162','Effect of Gamma Irradiation and Edible Coatings on the Post-harvest Quality of Litchi (Litchi chinensis Sonn.) cv. Rose Scented','Nikesh Chandra, Satish Chand, Omveer Singh, Ranjan Kumar Srivastava and Rajesh Kumar ','Effect-of-Gamma-Irradiation-and-Edible-Coatings-on-the-Post-harvest-Quality-of-Litchi-(Litchi-chinensis-Sonn.)-cv.-Rose-Scented-Nikesh-Chandra-82.pdf','',1,'In response to the escalating global demand for chemical-free, premium-quality fresh fruits with enhanced nutritional value, researchers and industry stakeholders are facing mounting pressure to develop preservation techniques that extend shelf life and maintain the quality of fruits for longer periods because litchi fruits have a very short shelf life 2 to 4 days at room temperature. To address this critical need, the present study focused on the post-harvest preservation of litchi cv. Rose Scented fruit through the innovative application of gamma radiation and edible coatings treatments. Through comprehensive assessments of various quality parameters, it was found that the application of 1.0 kGy gamma irradiation treatment at a storage temperature of 2 °C proved remarkably effective in preserving the fruit\'s overall acceptability, decay resistance, total sugar content, while 1.0 kGy gamma irradiation combined with 10 % Aloe vera gel maintained maximum ascorbic acid levels for an impressive duration of up to 20 days.','Gamma radiation, Litchi chinensis Sonn, edible coatings, organoleptic, post-harvest, quality','From the aforementioned experiments, it can be inferred that an integrated approach using gamma irradiation (1.0 kGy) combination with 10% Aloe vera gel proved to be beneficial in marinating the nutritional quality of litchi, especially vitamin C. Both radiation 1.0 kGy and Aloe vera gel were found significantly superior to other treatments in maintaining storage quality and external shelf life to 20 at 2°C. These findings underscore the potential of gamma irradiation as a valuable tool in preserving the quality and extending the shelf life of litchi fruits, presenting promising implications for the fruit industry and offering consumers access to fresh and nutritious produce for an extended period.','-','Nikesh Chandra, Satish Chand, Omveer Singh, Ranjan Kumar Srivastava and Rajesh Kumar (2023). Effect of Gamma Irradiation and Edible Coatings on the Post-harvest Quality of Litchi (Litchi chinensis Sonn.) cv. Rose Scented. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 15(8): 496-500.'),(7218,'163','Synthesis, Characterization and Antioxidant Activity of 7, 8-Benzoflavone Derivatives','Nahate N.R., Bhandarkar S.E. and Khobragade B.P.','Synthesis-Characterization-and-Antioxidant-Activity--of-7-8-Benzoflavone-Derivatives-Nahate-NR-63.pdf','',1,'Heterocyclic compounds are widely known for their medicinal properties. Flavonoids have gained significant attention due to their potent pharmacological behaviour. Flavones among them have been reported to be an important class of heterocyclic compounds possessing a wide range of biological activities. The synthesis of 7,8-benzoflavone derivatives can be challenging due to the complexity of the molecular structure. The precise manipulation of chemical reactions to achieve the desired substitutions at specific positions requires careful planning and optimization. In present work series of ten novel 7,8-benzoflavone have been synthesized by reported literature and tested for antioxidant potential. Structural analysis carried by FTIR, 1HNMR and GCMS. It was found that structural modification and substitution effects on the pharmacological potency. The primary objective of this study is to assess the impact of functional groups on the chemical behavior of benzoflavone derivatives. The present study shows that electron-donating groups exhibit better antioxidant potential and increase radical scavenging. This work introduces new 7,8-benzoflavone derivatives, expanding the chemical diversity of this class of compounds. This contributes to the pool of potential bioactive molecules for further exploration. Depending on the antioxidant activity observed, these novel derivatives might have potential applications in pharmaceuticals, nutraceuticals, or functional foods.','Acylation, Esterification, 7,8-Benzoflavone, Antioxidant, Baker-Venkataraman rearrangement, Flavones','In the present work, we investigated that the benzo ring at the C-7 and C-8 positions of the flavone structure is a promising moiety that can synthesize compounds such as 7,8-benzoflavone derivatives that are likely to exhibit promising biological activities. Furthermore, the benzo ring inflection of the 7,8-benzoflavones structure intentionally incorporation of methoxy (OMe) and hydroxyl (-OH) group over the ring. Which enhances the strong biological activities. ','-','Nahate N.R., Bhandarkar S.E. and Khobragade B.P. (2023). Synthesis, Characterization and Antioxidant Activity of 7, 8-Benzoflavone Derivatives. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 15(5a): 398-407.'),(7219,'163','Validating an Informative E-Booklet on Structured Teaching Programme to Promote Preventive Measure of Cervical Sposndylosis on Undergraduates College Students','Vishesh Singhal and Barkha Khurana','Validating-an-Informative-E-Booklet-on-Structured-Teaching-Programme-to-Promote-Preventive-Measure-of-Cervical-Sposndylosis-on-Undergraduates-College-Students-Vishesh-Singhal-64.pdf','',1,'Study aimed at developing and validating the content of a booklet (Structured teaching program in printed form) about the cervical spondylosis to undergraduate’s college students.\r\nIn this study, there are two steps that were followed first was to search and collect the literature mentioned for prevention and treatment of cervical spondylosis for educating and second was to validate the content of the E-booklet that has been designed by experts using Delphi method and while developing the booklet all the recommendations given by the Hoffman were considered as a base.\r\nThe CVI for the overall e-booklet was 1.0, indicating a high level of content validity. All items had a CVI of 1.0, suggesting that the e-booklet had a high level of relevance, accuracy, clarity, and completeness. The experts provided valuable feedback, which was incorporated into the final version of the e-booklet.\r\nIn this study in single phase validation process only, 100% of the items reached acceptable levels (above 0.80) for the all Six domain: Time and objective, content, writing language, illustration, layout and general feature.\r\n','Structured Teaching Program, Cervical Spondylosis, E-booklet, Validating, Undergraduates','The study conducted a single-phase validation process, evaluating a range of items across six distinct domains: Time and Objective, Content, Writing Language, Illustration, Layout, and General Features. Remarkably, all the items achieved levels of acceptability exceeding 0.80 in each domain. This outcome underscores the excellence of the items assessed, attesting to their superior quality in terms of timely delivery, content accuracy, language clarity, visual aids, layout effectiveness, and overall user experience.','-','Vishesh Singhal, and Barkha Khurana (2023). Validating an Informative E-Booklet on Structured Teaching Programme to Promote Preventive Measure of Cervical Spondylosis on Undergraduates College Students. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 15(8): 408-411.'),(7220,'162','Population Dynamics and Efficacy of Insecticides against Spider Mite Schizotetranychus baltazari (Tetranychidae) in Curry Leaf Murraya koenigii','Indujja M., Baskaran V., Sumathi E., Venkatesan K. and Anandham R.','Population-Dynamics-and-Efficacy-of-Insecticides-against-Spider-Mite-Schizotetranychus-baltazari-(Tetranychidae)-in-Curry-Leaf-Murraya-koenigii-Baskaran-V-83.pdf','',1,'The field experiment was conducted to study the population dynamics and efficacy of insecticides against curry leaf mite Schizotetranychus baltazari. The experiment was conducted in the orchard (latitude: 11.009945° N and longitude: 76.93108°E), Department of Spices and Plantation Crops, Horticultural College and Research Institute, Coimbatore. The result showed that more mites were recorded in the 16th standard week (37.10/2cm2). The maximum temperature and minimum temperature showed a positive and significant relationship in the development of the mite population, whereas morning relative humidity, evening relative humidity and rainfall showed a negative and non-significant relationship in the development of the mite population. The efficacy of insecticides viz., Metarhizium anisopliae @ 3ml/l, Beauveria bassiana@ 3ml/l, Lecanicillium lecanii@ 3ml/l, Hirsutella thompsoni@ 3ml/l, Spiromesifen 240 SC @ 0.8ml/l, Thiamethoxam 25 WG @ 2g/10l, Fenpyroximate 5 SC @ 2g/10l against curry leaf mite. Among these insecticides Spiromesifen 240 SC @0.8ml/l has highest cumulative per cent reduction of mites over control (86.48%), followed by Fenpyroximate 5 SC @1ml/l (84.31%), Thiamethoxam 25 WG @ 2g/10l (82.49%), M. anisopliae @ 3ml/l (76.60%), B. bassiana@ 3ml/l(70.95%), L. lecanii@ 3ml/l(61.73%) and H. thompsoni @ 3ml/l (46.17%). Curry leaf mites\' small size and hidden habitat on leaf undersides make accurate population assessment and effective insecticide application difficult. Fluctuating environmental factors, including temperature and plant health, influence mite populations and interact with insecticide efficacy, requiring precise analysis for effective control strategies.','Population dynamics, Insecticides, Spiromesifen, Thiamethoxam, M. anisopliae, B. bassiana, Curry leaf, Mite','This study revealed that the maximum temperature and minimum temperature have a positive and significant correlation with the development of the population. Whereas morning relative humidity, evening relative humidity and rainfall have non-significant and negative temperature effects on the mite population. Among insecticides, Spiromesifen 240 SC @ 0.8ml/l was found to be effective in controlling the mites with 86.78 per cent reduction followed by Fenpyroximate 5 SC @1ml/l (84.66 %), Thiamethoxam 25 WG @ 2g/10l (82.88 %). Among entomopathogenic fungi, M. anisopliae@ 3ml/l (75.67) % followed by B. bassiana@ 3ml/l (70.64 %) showed the highest reduction. The Hirsutella thompsoni @ 3ml/l has shown the least reduction in controlling the mites in curry leaf with a 48.38 per cent reduction. The Hirsutella thompsoni @ 3ml/l has shown the least reduction in controlling the mites in curry leaf with a 47.17 per cent reduction.','-','Indujja M., Baskaran V., Sumathi E., Venkatesan K. and Anandham R. (2023). Population Dynamics and Efficacy of Insecticides against Spider Mite Schizotetranychus baltazari (Tetranychidae) in Curry Leaf Murraya koenigii. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 15(8): 501-507.'),(7221,'162','Bio efficacy of Adathoda Leaf extract Soap against invasive Thrips Thrips parvispinus (Karny) (Thysanoptera: Thripidae) in Chilli','Talapala Sai Kumar, T. Elaiyabharathi, A. Suganthi, C. Kavitha and N. Sritharan','Bio-efficacy-of-Adathoda-Leaf-extract-Soap-against-invasive-Thrips-Thrips-parvispinus-(Karny)-(Thysanoptera-Thripidae)-in-Chilli-Talapala-Sai-Kumar-84.pdf','',1,'A field study was carried out in the experimental area of Tamilnadu Agricultural University Orchard and parallelly in a farmer\'s field at Thondamuthur, Coimbatore during July 2023, to study the efficacy of Adathoda leaf extract soap formulation against the invasive thrips, Thrips parvispinusin chilli. Pre-treatment and post-treatment observations were recorded in both experimental fields. The results revealed that the adathoda leaf formulation applied @5gm/lit (43.91 to 45.52%) and 7gm/lit (49.32 to 50.98%) are the best doses against T. parvispinus in both locations without causing any Phytotoxic effect on the chilli plants. The leaf extract formulation proved better than fipronil 5% SC this novel formulation based on Adathoda proved effective for the management of thrips in chilli. Thus, the research promotes the development of an effective formulation using Adathoda leaves for the eco-friendly management of thrips in chilli. ','Chilli, Thrips parvispinus, Phytotoxic effect, Adathoda leaf extract soap, Eco-friendly management','It is very common for farmers to use pesticides indiscriminately to combat insect pests with immediate effect and obtain more benefits. They are sometimes using large quantities of pesticides to control insect pests on vegetables such as chilli. As a result, pesticide residues accumulate in vegetable crops, posing health risks and environmental pollution.\r\nNatural plant extracts/botanical pesticides are essential in agriculture because they are cheap and inexpensive. They are safe, do not pose a danger to the environment and therefore have no residual effect on many insect pests. Therefore, Adathoda leaf extract soap formulation of @5 to 7gm /litre was found to be effectively against chilli thrips. This can be included in the IPM package for the management of chilli thrips in future.\r\n','-','Talapala Sai Kumar, T. Elaiyabharathi, A. Suganthi, C. Kavitha and N. Sritharan (2023). Bio efficacy of Adathoda Leaf extract Soap against invasive Thrips Thrips parvispinus (Karny) (Thysanoptera: Thripidae) in Chilli. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 15(8): 508-510.'),(7222,'162','Trend Analysis of Sorghum in Major Former Districts of Telangana State','Anusha T., Anuradha N., K . Suhasini and C. Padmaveni ','Trend-Analysis-of-Sorghum-in-Major-Former-Districts-of-Telangana-State-Anusha-T-85.pdf','',1,'The study has been conducted with the objective of investigating the trends in sorghum area, production and productivity in major sorghum growing former districts of Telangana state. Secondary data related to sorghum area, production and productivity is collected for the recent two decades from 2001-02 to 2020-21. Compound annual growth rate is computed for Period I (2001-02 to 2010-11), Period II (2011-12 to 2020-21) and for overall period. During the study period it was observed that negative growth trend was observed in sorghum area and production whereas positive growth rate was observed in sorghum productivity in Telangana and it’s major former sorghum growing districts. From the study it was observed that decline in sorghum area was major concern so that appropriate measures should be taken by concerned authorities.','CAGR, production, productivity, former districts, Telangana','It is concluded from the study that over the past two decades sorghum area and production are in decreasing trend while sorghum productivity is in positive trend in study area. UN declared the year 2023 as International Year of Millets which was proposed by the Indian government to promote millets for food security and nutritional security both at national and global level in the future. However, the millet area decline is a major concern, sorghum being a major millet grown in the study area also recorded drastic decline in the area. Hence, the availability of high yielding varieties and hybrids to farmers through extension services will help in increase area, yields and production. Incentivisation of sorghum production by way of seed subsidies in the study area will encourage the farmers to shift towards sorghum cultivation. Mixed cropping, intercropping, crop rotation models should also be promoted to increase sorghum area in the state through FPOs and community approach.','-','Anusha T., Anuradha N., K . Suhasini and C. Padmaveni (2023). Trend analysis of sorghum in major former districts of Telangana state. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 15(8): 511-514.'),(7223,'162','Seasonal Incidence of Sucking Insect Pests in Brinjal (Solanum melongena L.)','Pradumn Kumar Mourya, Saroj Chauhan, Pawan Kumar and Ritesh Kumar ','Seasonal-Incidence-of-Sucking-Insect-Pests-in-Brinjal-(Solanum-melongena-L.)-Pradumn-Kumar-Mourya-86.pdf','',1,'The present investigation on seasonal incidence of insect pests of brinjal were carried out at entomology research field, Institute of Agriculture and Natural Science, (Diksha Bhavan) Deen Dayal Upadhyaya Gorakhpur university Gorakhpur (Uttar Pradesh) during Rabi-2022-23. The first appearance of aphid in 46th SMW, whitefly in 47th SMW and jassid in 48th SMW was recorded. Aphid population was recorded maximum during 7th SMW whitefly in 8th SMW and jassid in 9th SMW. Aphid population showed negatively non-significant correlation with the min. temperature, max. temperature and rainfall whereas positively non-significant correlation with the relative humidity morning and relative humidity evening. The whitefly and jassid population showed positively non-significant correlation with the min. temperature and max. temperature and non-significant correlation with morning relative humidity, evening relative humidity and rainfall. This work tackles the problem of knowing the complicated dynamics of insect infestations in eggplant agriculture. Sucking insect pests such as aphids, whiteflies, and jassids threaten crop health and productivity by sucking sap from plants. This is a difficult task since we must determine when these bugs will appear, how much damage they will inflict, and how to stop them without damaging the ecosystem.','Aphid, whitefly, Jassid, seasonal incidence, correlation, weather','The present investigation has concluded that the sucking pests (aphid, jassid, whitefly). Aphid and whitefly population was recorded maximum during 7th SMW and jassid in 9th SMW. Aphid population showed negatively non-significant correlation with the minimum temperature, maximum temperature and rainfall while positively non-significant correlation with the relative humidity morning and relative humidity evening. The whitefly and jassid population showed positively non-significant correlation with the maximum and minimum temperature and non-significant correlation with morning relative humidity, evening relative humidity and rainfall. ','-','Pradumn Kumar Mourya, Saroj Chauhan, Pawan Kumar and Ritesh Kumar (2023). Seasonal Incidence of Sucking Insect Pests in Brinjal (Solanum melongena L.). Biological Forum – An International Journal, 15(8): 515-519.'),(7224,'162','Harvesting the Gold Dust: Unravelling the Pollen Production Potential of Indian Honey Bees Apis cerana indica (Fabricius) and Optimizing Pollen Traps in Coconut Ecosystems ','Sibun Kumar Rout, M. R. Srinivasan, V. R. Saminathan, A. Suganthi and P. Geetha','Harvesting the Gold Dust Unravelling the Pollen Production Potential of Indian Honey Bees Apis cerana indica (Fabricius) and Optimizing Pollen Traps in Coconut Ecosystems -Srinivasan MR-86.pdf','',1,'Beekeeping is the practice of overseeing honey bee colonies to derive various advantages. In India, the Indian honey bee (Apis cerana indica) and Italian honey bee (Apis mellifera) are the main species under management. Bee-collected pollen is an important product which is harvested using a pollen trap. Bee pollen is rich in protein and provide essential nutrients for honey bees. This rich food is being effectively used as human nutrition. This study investigated the effect of pollen traps on pollen collection potential of Indian honey bee Apis cerana indica in a coconut orchard in Coimbatore, Tamil Nadu during Jan to May 2023 for a period of five months. The results showed that mean daily pollen collection in the pollen traps was 23.26 g/ hive when traps were placed once in seven days in a week (for a period of 2 h between 7 and 9 am). The daily pollen collection was 6.05, 12.53 and 19.11 g/ hive when traps were placed on all days of a week, alternate days and, once in 3 days. The mean weekly pollen collection was 44.58 g/ hive when traps were placed once in 3 days of a week. The mean weekly pollen collection was 42.33, 43.86 and 23.23 g/ hive when traps were placed on all days of a week, alternate days and once in seven days. It was concluded that placing pollen traps for a period of 2 h in a day between 7 and 9 am for 3 days in a week can be recommended in coconut ecosystem to get maximum pollen yield and without adversely affecting the honey bees. Pollen collection increased significantly after the acclimatization of honey bees to traps with highest collection in March and April. Understanding the pollen collection potential of Indian honey bees has implications for beekeeping, pollination studies, and agriculture. Further research is needed on environmental factors, seasonal variations, and long-term trap effects. Overall, this study provides valuable insights into Indian honey bee pollen collection potential and the possibility of collecting pollen in coconut ecosystem that can provide additional income to beekeepers.','Apis cerana indica, Beekeeping, Pollen trap, Pollen collection, Honey bee colonies, Nutrients, Agriculture, Pollination, Climatic conditions','In conclusion, the study investigated the pollen collection potential of Indian honey bee colonies (A. cerana indica) through the installation of pollen traps over a five-month period in a coconut orchard. The results demonstrated that the highest pollen yield occurred in March with January exhibiting the lowest pollen count. This pattern suggests a correlation between pollen collection and the flowering seasons. Notably, a gradual increase in pollen collection was observed in the weeks following the installation of pollen traps, possibly due to the honey bees\' acclimation to the new trap. It was concluded that placing pollen traps for a period of 2 h in a day between 7 and 9 am for 3 days in a week can be recommended in coconut ecosystem to get maximum pollen yield of 44.58 g / hive/ week and without adversely affecting the honey bees. The findings align with previous research on other bee species, such as Italian honey bees (A. mellifera), which have shown similar trends in pollen collection related to seasonal changes. These insights contribute to our understanding of pollen trap efficiency and its impact on honey bee colonies, shedding light on the potential benefits and challenges of implementing such techniques for studying and supporting bee health and pollination dynamics.','-','Sibun Kumar Rout, M. R. Srinivasan, V. R. Saminathan, A. Suganthi and P. Geetha (2023). Harvesting the Gold Dust: Unravelling the Pollen Production Potential of Indian Bees Apis cerana indica (Fabricius) and Optimizing Pollen Traps in Coconut Ecosystems. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 15(8): 520-526.'),(7225,'162','Exploring the correlated Response and cause-effect Relationship for the Green Fodder Yield and its contributing Traits in Sorghum','Deepak Kaushik, Yogesh Jindal, Amit, Vikesh Tanwar and Bichhinna Maitri Rout ','Exploring-the-correlated-Response-and-cause-effect-Relationship-for-the-Green-Fodder-Yield-and-its-contributing-Traits-in-Sorghum-Yogesh-Jindal-88.pdf','',1,'The present study was carried out at the CCS Haryana Agricultural University, Hisar to characterize and assess genetic diversity in 49 sorghum genotypes on the basis of fifteen morpho-biochemical parameters. Analysis of variance showed highly significant variation for quantitative parameters in the study. The genotypes GP-236 and IS 49021 had the highest average green (462.8 q/ha) and dry (239.2 q/ha) fodder yields, while G-800 and HC 171 had the lowest amounts of HCN (19.1 µg/g) and tannin (0.32 mg/g). IS 651 and IS 49021, respectively, had the highest levels of crude protein (10.94%) and crude protein yield (23.42 q/ha). Green fodder yield showed significant and positive genotypic correlation with plant height, dry matter percentage, dry fodder yield, crude protein, crude protein yield while significant and negative with 100-grain weight, HCN content. Path analysis studies revealed that the characters viz. plant height upto flag leaf base, total plant height, stem diameter, leaf length, 100-grain weight, dry fodder yield etc. had positive effect on green fodder yield while negative effect was shown by time of panicle emergence, 100-grain weight, HCN and tannin content. Therefore, choosing this character might lead to an improvement in yield and yield components.','Genetic diversity, Green fodder yield, HCN, Tannin content, Sorghum','The study concluded the presence of significant variability for the studied traits in the sorghum genotypes. Various genetic parameters indicates the presence of additive gene action for the majority of studied traits that can felicitate for direct selection for these traits. From the studied sorghum genotypes; GP-297, IS 49021, PGN 9 and HC 171 can be used for the enhancement green fodder yield and nutritional attributes. So, Subsequent selection of these traits will increase the breeding efficiency of the genotypes. Hence, due consideration should be given for the traits while selecting parental lines. These superior genotypes can be used for further breeding programmes.','-','Deepak Kaushik, Yogesh Jindal, Amit, Vikesh Tanwar and Bichhinna Maitri Rout (2023). Exploring the correlated Response and cause-effect Relationship for the Green Fodder Yield and its contributing Traits in Sorghum. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 15(8): 527-530.'),(7226,'162','Ranking of Ecosystem Services and Drivers of Deterioration of Koothapar Big Tank Wetland in Tiruchirappalli District','Mangaiyarkarasi N., J.S. Amarnath, M. Anjugam, B. Sivasankari and R. Balaji','Ranking-of-Ecosystem-Services-and-Drivers-of-Deterioration-of-Koothapar-Big-Tank-Wetland-in-Tiruchirappalli-District-Mangaiyarkarasi-N-89.pdf','',1,'The present study dovetailed to study the multi various ecosystem services provided by Koothapar big tank wetland in Tiruchirappalli district of Tamil Nadu, India and investigate its scope and importance by ranking it. It further aimed to study the drivers of deterioration of it and then to explore further, the attitude of stakeholders towards the conservation of wetland was studied. Thus, the study is wholesome to understand the present scenario of wetland, scope for its improvement and also for future research in this domain. From the study area, 110 farmers (50 agricultural, 20 cow grazing, 20 goat and sheep grazing and 20 farmers engaged in aquaculture) and 50 residents were selected randomly by adopting a multipurpose random sampling method. The primary data were collected from 160 respondents. The percentage analysis results revealed that irrigation was the major ecosystem service which ranked first with 99 per cent, household sewage and solid waste dump were ranked as the major driver that deteriorated the wetland most with 86 per cent and 72 per cent of the respondents were interested to get involved in protection and conservation activities. It was concluded that encroachment should be removed to increase the wetland size resulting in an increase in the benefits from ecosystem services. Installation of sewage treatment will prevent the breeding of mosquitoes and pollution of the tank water. The Government should take initiatives to restore the Koothapar big tank wetland with eco-tourism and avail facilities of boating, walking tracks, herbal plantation and theme parks.','Koothapar big tank, ranking, ecosystem services, drivers of deterioration, percentage analysis, and eco-tourism','Wetlands provide enormous beneficial services to the community people. The common-pool resources such as tanks form an important source of livelihood activities such as agriculture in the form of irrigation water, silted soil, and livestock rearing for millions of rural people in India. In recent decades, the wetlands are deteriorated due to biotic and abiotic threats. The Koothapar big tank wetland is one of the four prioritized wetlands in the Tiruchirappalli district and most of the farmers benefited through this tank are small and marginal. This study was conducted to throw light on different ecosystem services provided by the Koothapar big tank wetland and the drivers that deteriorate the tank. The empirical results of the study concluded that irrigation was the major ecosystem service which ranked first with 99 per cent, household sewage and solid waste dump were ranked as the major driver that deteriorated the wetland most with 86 per cent each and 72 per cent of the respondents were interested to get involved in protection and conservation activities. Results of the study recommended that encroachment should be removed to increase the wetland size resulting in an increase in the benefits from ecosystem services. Installation of sewage treatment will prevent the breeding of mosquitoes and pollution of the tank water. Currently, The Koothapar big tank wetland is managed by a single government agency i.e. Public Works Department. For efficient, equitable and sustainable management of wetlands, collective action from various lines departments such as Tamil Nadu State Wetland Authority(TNSWA), Forest Department and Fishery Department should be required. The extension programmes should be conducted by TNSWA, Forest Department and NGOs to promote awareness of wetlands services, functional benefits and threats among the stakeholders. The Government should take initiatives to restore the Koothapar big tank wetland to eco-tourism and avail facilities of boating, walking tracks, herbal plantation and theme parks. ','-','Mangaiyarkarasi N., J.S. Amarnath, M. Anjugam, B. Sivasankari and R. Balaji (2023). Ranking of Ecosystem Services and Drivers of Deterioration of Koothapar Big Tank Wetland in Tiruchirappalli District. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 15(8): 531-536.'),(7227,'162','Zinc Solubilizing and Sulphur Oxidizing Bacteria as Plant Probiotic for Summer Groundnut','Kandoriya P.J., Patel H.K., Jhala Y.K., Pallavi K.M., Patel K.C. and Vyas R.V. ','Zinc-Solubilizing-and-Sulphur-Oxidizing-Bacteria-as-Plant-Probiotic-for-Summer-Groundnut-Patel-HK-90.pdf','',1,'Looking to importance of Zn and S as an essential micro element, their availability to the crops from the soil needs to be ensured. We can add them in the soil in form of chemical amendment but, the entire applied amount is not available for the plant. To ensure their availability to plant, microbial inoculants are proved best. A research study focused on the use of Zinc Solubilizing Bacteria (ZSB) and Sulphur Oxidizing Bacteria (SOB) as plant probiotics for summer groundnut involved native strains of ZSB (Beijerinckia fluminensis AAU ZSB F2) and SOB (Pseudomonas aeruginosa AAU PF 3 and Bacillus tropicus AAU SOB 1). A micro-plot experiment was conducted using the bacterial consortium, individual bacteria, and control treatments to test their effects on groundnut growth, yield, and quality parameters. The treatment that received 100% RDF with ZnSO4 and Gypsum, along with ZSB and SOB, showed significant highest in plant height at 30 and 60 days (19.72 cm and 35.61 cm respectively), pods per plant (12.33), pod yield (8.86 g per plant), haulm yield (19.77 g per plant) and kernel yield (8.8 g per plant). In terms of quality parameters, the treatment that received 100% RDF with Gypsum and SOB exhibited the highest oil percentage (54.12%) in the kernel, while the treatment with ZnSO4 and Gypsum along with ZSB and SOB had the highest protein content (31.82%). Regarding soil chemical parameters, the treatment with the native SOB strain resulted in lower pH, whereas the treatment with the ZSB strain showed higher pH. No significant difference was observed in organic carbon content and available phosphorus among the different treatments. The treatment with 100% RDF, ZnSO4, Gypsum, ZSB, and SOB had the highest available zinc and sulphur content in the soil, as well as higher zinc and sulphur content and uptake by the kernel and haulm. Overall, the study demonstrated the potential of the bacterial consortium in promoting groundnut growth, yield, and quality parameters, as well as enhancing soil nutrient availability. The microorganisms based nutrient availability proved very cost effective and eco-friendly for sustainable agriculture as well as to improve quality of the groundnut.','Sulphur Oxidizing Bacteria, Zinc Solubilizing Bacteria, Plant Probiotics, Groundnut, Sulphur, Zinc','From the above results it can be concluded that, the native zinc solubilizing and sulphur oxidizing bacterial strains were proved effective for nutrient solubilization and found compatible with each other for preparation of consortium formulation with sufficient self-life. Moreover, these native ZSB, SOB and its combined formulation found to increase groundnut growth, yield and kernel quality along with increase in sulphur and zinc nutrient content and uptake.','-','Kandoriya P.J., Patel H.K., Jhala Y.K., Pallavi K.M., Patel K.C. and Vyas R.V. (2023). Zinc Solubilizing and Sulphur Oxidizing Bacteria as Plant Probiotic for Summer Groundnut. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 15(8): 537-545.'),(7228,'147','Effect of Packaging Materials and Treatments on Biochemical quality characteristics of Indian Blackberry (Syzygium cumini L.) Fruit Pulp during Storage','Indrajeet Sahu, Minati Mohapatra, Uma Sankar Pal, Manoj Kumar Panda, Raghabananda Nayak, Kalpana Rayaguru and Sanjaya Kumar Dash ','Effect of Packaging Materials and Treatments on Biochemical quality characteristics of Indian Blackberry (Syzygium cumini L.) Fruit Pulp during Storage-Indrajeet Sahu-131.pdf','',1,'Indian blackberry (Syzygium cumini L.) fruit is seasonal and highly perishable in nature owing to its delicate texture and high moisture content. It is required to store the pulp in the harvesting season to prepare different value added products from it in the lean season. The present investigation was carried out to preserve the fruit pulp using different chemical preservatives such as ascorbic acid (25mg/100g), sodium benzoate (300 ppm) and potassium sorbate (300 ppm) under ambient condition in metalized polyester poly (MPP) and high-density polyethylene (HDPE) packaging materials. Quality parameters of stored pulp were analyzed at 0, 30, 60 and 90 days of storage. The total phenolic content, total anthocyanin content, antioxidant and sensory score reduced with increase in storage period whereas change in colour and microbial load showed an increasing trend. Among all treatments, pulp treated 300 ppm sodium benzoate (T3) gave best result with respect to highest sensory score (7.25±0.28), highest total anthocyanin content (32.93±3.29 mg/100g) with lowest colour change value (15.47±0.29) and microbial load (5.90±0.05×104cfu/g) within acceptable limit in HDPE packaging at 90 days of storage. HDPE packaging was found to be better in terms of total anthocyanin content, total phenolic content and antioxidant activity of stored pulp as compared to MPP packaging. The fruit pulp heated at 90°C for 5 min and treated with 300 ppm sodium benzoate can be stored for 90 days under ambient condition for further value addition.','Jamun pulp, total anthocyanin content, total phenolic content, antioxidant activity, microbial load, sensory, MPP and HDPE packaging','The present study concluded that jamun pulp treated with different preservatives significantly influence the quality characteristics during storage. Since jamun is highly perishable fruit which cannot be stored for longer period, it could be stored in pulp form for its availability in off-season to prepare different value-added products. Among different treatments use of sodium benzoate at 300 ppm concentration (T3) showed best results followed by T8 (0.025% ascorbic acid + 300 ppm sodium benzoate + 300 ppm potassium sorbate) for storage of jamun pulp up to 90 days under ambient conditionwith respect to biochemical properties, microbial load and sensory score. HDPE packaging was found to be better in terms of total anthocyanin content, total phenolic content and antioxidant activity. ','-','Indrajeet Sahu, Minati Mohapatra, Uma Sankar Pal, Manoj Kumar Panda, Raghabananda Nayak, Kalpana Rayaguru and Sanjaya Kumar Dash (2022). Effect of Packaging Materials and Treatments on Biochemical quality characteristics of Indian Blackberry (Syzygium cumini L.) Fruit Pulp during Storage. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 14(4a): 772-780.'),(7229,'162','A New Disease of Mulberry, Pythium Soft Root Rot Managed through Biological, Botanical and Fungicidal Approaches, both In-vitro and Field Condition','Ravichandra, Somasekhara Y.M., Shalini M. and Thimmareddy H.','A-New-Disease-of-Mulberry,-Pythium-Soft-Root-Rot-Managed-through-Biological,-Botanical-and-Fungicidal-Approaches,-both-In-vitro-and-Field-Condition-Ravichandra-91.pdf','',1,'Mulberry (Morus sp.) is an important commercial crop grown under varied climatic conditions ranging from temperate to tropical region of the world but mulberry cultivation has many hindrances in its cultivation, one such constraint is diseases that to soft root rot disease. Symptoms of the soft root rot disease manifests in yellowing sudden withering and drying of leaves starting from the bottom branches and spreads upwards, followed by defoliation and finally resulting in death of plants. The disease initiates in isolated patches later spreading throughout the mulberry field. Bark of root peels off easily and the plants die. The cortex of infected roots first turns brown and rot followed by darkening of xylem, conspicuous mucilaginous matrix covers the mulberry root and hence the name soft root. Disease incidence was 27.17 % in major mulberry growing area i.e., Ramanagar district of Karnataka. Mulberry soft root rot disease, effective management is needed. Hence, in vitro and in vivo studies on efficacy of fungicides (contact, systemic and combi-product) having different mode of action was taken. The biological control method is contemplated as promising approach to management of soil borne diseases. Among the fungicides evaluated in vitro condition Captan (86.29 %), Mancozeb + Metalaxyl, Carbendazim + Mancozeb, Fenamidone + Mancozeb, Azoxystrobin + Mancozeb (94.44 %), and Tebuconazole (100 %) were found effective. Among botanicals, neem extract (14.02 %) had highest inhibition of the pathogen. Trichoderma viride-1 (95.54 %) and Bacillus pumilis (58.88 %) were effective in vitro conditions. The bio-agents T. viride-1 and T. viride-2 found effective in glasshouse and field conditions. The effective fungicides Mancozeb + Metalaxyl (0.1 %) and Captan (0.2 %) reduced disease under field conditions up to 31.96 and 27.45 per cent, respectively. These fungicides, botanicals and bio-agents can be exploited for the management of soft root rot disease of mulberry.','Mulberry, Soft root rot disease, Pythium sp. Botanicals, bioagents','1. Molecular confirmation of mulberry soft root pathogen Pythium sp.\r\n2. Large scale demonstration of effective fungicides against soft root rot disease of mulberry in farmer’s field. \r\n3. Large scale mass production of bio-agents along with organic amendments would be helpful for the management of mulberry soft root rot disease.\r\n','-','Ravichandra, Somasekhara Y.M., Shalini M. and Thimmareddy H. (2023). A New Disease of Mulberry, Pythium Soft Root Rot Managed through Biological, Botanical and Fungicidal Approaches, both In-vitro and Field Condition. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 15(8): 546-556.'),(7230,'162','Exploring the Potential of Novel Plant based Beverage Developed using a Traditional Brown Rice variety by Nutritional Assessment','R. Radha Maheswari, Ayyavoo Preamnath Manoharan, B. Murugan, P.S.L. Sesh and V. Perasiriyan ','Exploring-the-Potential-of-Novel-Plant-based-Beverage-Developed-using-a-Traditional-Brown-Rice-variety-by-Nutritional-Assessment-Ayyavoo-Preamnath-Manoharan-92.pdf','',1,'Consumer’s awareness towards the link between the diet and health increases the consumption of plant based products as they are packed with many bioactive phytochemicals. The increased demand for plant based products in turn increases the demand for various plant materials that are ecologically sustainable. Soy, oats, almond, coconut based beverages are the few popular raw materials used in the plant based beverage preparation. Oat beverage is the only well-known product under cereal based beverage category. None of the market samples available are prepared from any indigenous raw materials. Thus, there is an urge for the novel locally available raw materials for the sustainable production of plant beverages. In this context, this study aims to explore the utilization potential of traditional brown rice variety as a novel raw material to prepare plant based beverage by assessing its nutritional value. The brown rice extract was prepared and its phyisco-chemical composition was determined with standard analytical procedures. The moisture, total solids, ash, protein, fat, carbohydrate content, energy and pH of the brown rice based beverage was found to be 91.89 ± 0.04 %, 8.11 ± 0.04 %, 0.07 ± 0.03 %, 0.81 ± 0.03 %, 0.13 ± 0.06 %, 7.10 ± 0.08 %, 32.72 ± 0.63 Kcal and 6.83 ± 0.03 respectively. The developed product is compared with oat beverages in market for energy value and macronutrient content. It was found to have moderate calories with lower fat content and similar carbohydrate content. Thus, this native variety of brown rice can be used as an alternative and healthier cereal for the plant based beverage preparation in order to promote the utilization and consumption of indigenous raw materials in product formulation.','Plant based beverage, Vegan, Brown rice, Mapillai samba, nutritional composition','The carbohydrate content of the developed product is found to be similar to the control and the fat content is found to be significantly lower than control. This helps to promote the product as low fat with moderate calories of about 32.72 Kcal of energy (1.64 % RDA per 100 ml). None of the market samples available are prepared from any indigenous raw materials. Thus, this study utilizes the locally available as well as nutritionally rich cereal based raw material alternative to oats in order to develop a healthy plant based beverage. This will reduce its cost and also encourages the consumption of indigenous rice variety. This product can also be marketed as a ready to drink plant beverage after adopting proper processing and packaging methods. To produce a nutritionally balanced product, this beverage can also be combined with other plant beverages. Since brown rice varieties possess various bioactive phytochemicals, the future study may focus on the profiling of these compounds and assessing its activity which will further enhance the market potential of this beverage.','-','R. Radha Maheswari, Ayyavoo Preamnath Manoharan, B. Murugan, P.S.L. Sesh and V. Perasiriyan (2023). Exploring the Potential of Novel Plant based Beverage Developed using a Traditional Brown Rice variety by Nutritional Assessment. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 15(8): 557-560.'),(7231,'162','Impact of Water Soluble Fertilizers and Silica on the Growth of African Marigold (Tagetes erecta L.)','Bharathkumar C., A. Subbiah, D. Keisar Lourdusamy, K. Sathiya Bama and K. Vanitha ','Impact-of-Water-Soluble-Fertilizers-and-Silica-on-the-Growth-of-African-Marigold-(Tagetes-erecta-L.)-A-Subbiah-93.pdf','',1,'African marigold (Tagetes erecta L.) is an important traditional flower crop under cultivation throughout India. It belongs to the family Asteraceae/Compositae. It has a great economic potential as loose flower which finds industrial application in preparation of natural dyes, essential oils and also used as nematode and mosquito repellents. The current investigation on \"Impact of water soluble fertilizers and silica on the growth of African marigold (Tagetes erecta L.)” for the hybrid Tennis ball orange was carried out at Grapes Research Station, Theni. The experiment was laid out in Randomized Block Design (RBD) with fifteen treatments replicated thrice. The results revealed that application of the treatment T9 [Mono Potassium Phosphate (0:52:34) @ 0.5% + Potassium Nitrate (13:0:45) - @ 0.5% + Chelated micronutrient @ 0.1% + Ortho silicic acid form of Silica @ 0.1% + Norwegian sea weed extract (Ascophyllum nodosum) @ 0.1%] resulted in the maximum growth. The highest values for vegetative parameters viz., plant height, internodal length, leaf length, leaf width, number of branches and stem diameter were recorded in the treatment T9 followed by T7 [Mono Potassium Phosphate (0:52:34) @ 0.5% + Potassium Nitrate (13:0:45) - @ 0.5% + Chelated micronutrient @ 0.1% + Ortho silicic acid form of Silica @ 0.1%] when compared to the control (T15). ','Tagetes erecta L., Tennis ball orange, water soluble fertilizers, ortho silicic acid and Ascophyllum nodosum','The study concluded that application of the treatment T9 (Mono Potassium Phosphate (0:52:34) @ 0.5% + Potassium Nitrate (13:0:45) - @ 0.5% + Chelated micronutrient @ 0.1% + Ortho silicic acid form of Silica @ 0.1% + Norwegian sea weed extract (Ascophyllum nodosum) @ 0.1%) recorded maximum growth with the highest values for vegetative parameters viz., plant height, internodal length, leaf length, leaf width, number of branches and stem diameter when compared to the control (T15).','-','Bharathkumar C., A. Subbiah, D. Keisar Lourdusamy, K. Sathiya Bama and K. Vanitha (2023). Impact of Water Soluble Fertilizers and Silica on the Growth of African Marigold (Tagetes erecta L.). Biological Forum – An International Journal, 15(8): 561-566.'),(7232,'162','Evaluation of Mutagenic effects of Gamma Rays and EMS on Seed Germination and Plant Survival in M1 Generation of Tomato (Solanum lycopersicum L.)','Ravinsh Kumar Maurya, Anand Kumar Singh, Binod Kumar Singh, Akhilesh Kumar Pal and Rohit Kumar Singh','Evaluation-of-Mutagenic-effects-of-Gamma-Rays-and-EMS-on-Seed-Germination-and-Plant-Survival-in-M1-Generation-of-Tomato-(Solanum-lycopersicum-L.)-Ravinsh-Kumar-Maurya-94.pdf','',1,'Induced mutagenesis is one of the most effective ways for trait improvement that does not affect the cultivars\' well-optimized genetic background. The study had been focuses on evaluating the effects of gamma rays and EMS (Ethyl methane sulfonate) on tomato var. Kashi Adarsh, Kashi Aman and Kashi Anupam in M1 generation. The experiment was conducted at the Agricultural Research Farm, Institute of Agricultural Sciences at Banaras Hindu University in Varanasi, India, during the Ravi season of 201-19. The experimental design was used as randomized block design, which was replicated three times. The treatments applied in the experiment was control (no treatment), four doses of gamma rays (5kR, 10 kR, 15kR and 20 kR) and four doses of EMS (0.06%, 0.12%, 0.18% and 0.24%). The study was found that both gamma rays and EMS had a negative impact on various aspects of tomato var. Kashi Adarsh, Kashi Aman and Kashi Anupam including seed germination and plant survival. Induced mutations can rapidly create variability in quantitatively and qualitatively inherited traits in crops. EMS was observed to be more effective as a mutagen compared to gamma rays. Tomato is genetically distant from other model plants, making it unique in terms of genetic makeup. Additionally, its sequence information doesn\'t show significant similarity to other plant species, which complicates the use of tools and knowledge from other model plants. These findings highlight the potential risks associated with mutagenic treatments and provide insights into the sensitivity of tomato plants to these mutagens. Precise identification of accidental mutations is required for understanding trait development and its application in breeding programs.','Gamma rays, EMS (Ethyl methane sulfonate), Kashi Adarsh, Kashi Aman, Kashi Anupam, treatments ','The study revealed that there was substantial reduction in seed germination seedling height and plant survival with an increase in doses of gamma rays and EMS. The EMS was more deleterious than gamma rays.','-','Ravinsh Kumar Maurya, Anand Kumar Singh, Binod Kumar Singh, Akhilesh Kumar Pal and Rohit Kumar Singh (2023). Evaluation of Mutagenic effects of Gamma Rays and EMS on Seed Germination and Plant Survival in M1 Generation of Tomato (Solanum lycopersicum L.). Biological Forum – An International Journal, 15(8): 567-570.'),(7233,'162','Empowering Groundnut Farmers: ‘Extent of Adoption of Cluster Frontline Demonstrations (CFLDS) by Beneficiary and Non-Beneficiary Farmers in Chittoor District of Andhra Pradesh','A. Nikhitha, P. Bala Hussain Reddy, V. Sailaja and P. Ganesh Kumar','Empowering-Groundnut-Farmers-‘Extent-of-Adoption-of-Cluster-Frontline-Demonstrations-(CFLDS)-by-Beneficiary-and-Non-Beneficiary-Farmers-in-Chittoor-District-of-Andhra-Pradesh-A-Nikhitha-95.pdf','',1,'The research was carried out in the Chittoor district of Andhra Pradesh, focusing on two locations: Krishi Vigyan Kendra, Kalikiri, and Rashtriya Seva Samithi - Krishi Vigyan Kendra (RASS-KVK), Karakambadi. A total of 120 participants were included in the study. The findings indicated that among the CFLDs (Cluster Front Line Demonstrations) beneficiary farmers more than half (51.67%) exhibited a high level of adoption of the recommended groundnut cultivation practices. Medium adoption was observed in 45.00% of the beneficiaries, while a low extent of adoption was seen in only 3.33% of them. In contrast, among the non-beneficiary farmers, half (50.00%) showed a medium, level of adoption of the recommended groundnut cultivation practices. Low adoption was observed in 41.67% of the non-beneficiaries, while a high extent of adoption was seen in 8.33%. Some of the challenges faced by famers are demonstration should be repeated regularly, low cost technology needs to be introduced, KVKs should arrange a buyback of seed to get immediate returns to the farmers, KVK scientists should visit farmers fields on a frequent basis. This study would give a direction to the implementation agencies of CFLDs to overcome any lacuna if any for the better execution of the demonstrations.','Cluster Frontline Demonstrations, Beneficiary farmers, non-beneficiary farmers, Krishi Vigyan Kendras and extent of adoption','To showcase the effectiveness of improved varieties and promote the adoption of advanced production management technologies for groundnut, cluster frontline demonstrations were meticulously carried out on farmers\' fields. The primary objective was to convince the farming community of the immense potential and benefits associated with these innovations. Beneficiary farmers, who received comprehensive training and education on the technologies utilized in cluster frontline demonstrations, displayed a higher likelihood of embracing them. Through targeted programs and extension services, farmers gained valuable knowledge and a deeper understanding of the advantages offered by cluster frontline demonstrations. Additionally, beneficiary farmers received institutional support from various entities such as government agencies, research institutions, and non-governmental organizations. These collaborative organizations worked closely with farmers, providing vital technical assistance, facilitating access to essential resources, and ensuring continuous monitoring and evaluation. The combined efforts of these organizations created an enabling environment, making it easier for beneficiary farmers to readily adopt the technologies employed in cluster frontline demonstrations. This distinguished them from non-beneficiary farmers, as they had access to a wealth of support and resources that further facilitated the adoption process.','-','A. Nikhitha, P. Bala Hussain Reddy, V. Sailaja and P. Ganesh Kumar (2023). Empowering Groundnut Farmers: ‘Extent of Adoption of Cluster Frontline Demonstrations (CFLDS) by Beneficiary and Non-Beneficiary Farmers in Chittoor District of Andhra Pradesh. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 15(8): 571-576.'),(7234,'162','Evaluation of DSSAT-CERES-Rice Model through different Dates of Planting in East and South Eastern Coastal Plain Zone of Odisha','B. Srilaxmi, B.S. Rath and A. Baliarsingh','Evaluation of DSSAT-CERES-Rice Model through different Dates of Planting in East and South Eastern Coastal Plain Zone of Odisha-B Srilaxmi-96.pdf','',1,'The Changing climatic scenario has become a global concern in the present context. Climate change will have a significant impact on agriculture. Risks associated with the climate change depend highly on near-term mitigation and adaptation strategies in securing a sustainable agricultural livelihood. Several studies have proven that crop simulation models have being effectively adopted to assess the impact of projected changing climate in agricultural production system. In the present study, CERES Rice model under Decision Support System for Agro-technology Transfer (DSSAT) is used to simulate the most popular rice cultivar Swarna (MTU 7029) under East and South Eastern Coastal Plain agro-climatic zone of Odisha and to predict potential crop yield on the basis of weather variables viz. daily rainfall, solar radiation, and maximum and minimum temperatures. This model aids in identifying the differences between expected possible crop yields and actual yields in a given environment. If the gap is identified between possible and actual crop yields, optimization of crop yields can be operated through this transfer of technology to minimize the gap through timely interventions. The findings revealed that the CERES-Rice model evaluation denotes a good agreement between observed and simulated growth and development characteristics for the Kharif rice variety.','Crop simulation model, Swarna (MTU 7029), Crop Yields, DSSAT - CERES Rice','In the present investigation, it was concluded that the CERES-Rice model evaluation showed a good agreement between observed and simulated growth and development characteristics for the Kharif rice variety. Among the four transplanting dates July 7, July 22, August 6 and September 1, Swarna variety of rice produced higher grain yield under mid-season planting on August 6. This is mostly due to the fact that the highest rainfall received is shifted from the month of July to the month of August. The duration from transplanting to panicle initiation, anthesis and physiological maturity is found to be increased in case of delayed transplanting condition.','-','B. Srilaxmi, B.S. Rath and A. Baliarsingh (2023). Evaluation of DSSAT-CERES-Rice Model through different Dates of Planting in East and South Eastern Coastal Plain Zone of Odisha. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 15(8): 577-581.'),(7235,'151','Sustainable Growth and Bursting Diversity in Indian Agriculture: A Profound Analysis','Tarkeshwar and Pradip Kumar Saini','Sustainable Growth and Bursting Diversity in Indian Agriculture A Profound Analysis-TARKESHWAR-11.pdf','',1,'In the vibrant land of India, a crescendo of progress and development has been witnessed, stirring aspirations to ascend among the ranks of developed nations. Yet, amidst this accelerated advancement, apprehensions arise concerning the essence and well-being of the nation\'s core. A captivating notion, \"sustainable development\", has surged in popularity, extolled by experts advocating its embrace. Amidst the rapid growth that touches myriad facets, agriculture remains the very bedrock of the Indian economy. Embarking on a scholarly journey, this treatise endeavors to unravel and probe the enigma of sustainable development entwined within the realms of Indian agriculture. It endeavors to juxtapose the archaic agricultural system with the prevailing one, traversing the ecological, economic, and social dimensions of sustainability. Aspirations soar to uncover enduring remedies, fostering the propagation and embrace of sustainable practices. Foremost among the challenges besieging developing countries like India is the conundrum of food consumption and the burgeoning populace, an enigma clamoring for resolution. The panacea to this lies in amplifying agricultural output, a daunting yet indispensable quest. Alas, the intensive agricultural practices borne of the green revolution have ushered remarkable gains in yield and production, exacting a steep toll on the delicate tapestry of our ecosystem. It is in this backdrop that a succinct genesis of the prevailing landscape of Indian agriculture is portrayed, followed by an astute critique of the concept, unfurling both impediments and avenues for holistic sustainability.','Sustainable Development, Agricultural Sustainability, Ecological Sustainability, Social Sustainability','The journey of agricultural development in India has been marked by both progress and challenges. While the sector has undergone economic reforms and witnessed advancements in certain areas, there remain pressing concerns, particularly regarding the adoption of modern technologies and the need for sustainable practices. The pivotal role of agriculture in the Indian economy cannot be understated, with its impact reverberating through social equity patterns and the livelihoods of millions. To ensure a prosperous and sustainable future for Indian agriculture, it is crucial to address resource limitations, infrastructure constraints, and policy-induced restrictions, while embracing practices that prioritize profitability and ecological sustainability. By empowering small-farm management and fostering an environment conducive to sustainable agriculture, India can chart a course towards holistic and enduring agricultural development. The challenges may be formidable, but with collective efforts from farmers, policymakers, researchers, and stakeholders, the potential for a thriving and sustainable agricultural sector shines brightly on the horizon.\r\nIn conclusion, adopting small-farm management strategies that elevate the productivity, profitability, and sustainability of the farming system holds the key to ensuring comprehensive sustainability in the agricultural domain. By prioritizing sustainable practices, we can pave the way for a brighter, more resilient future for agriculture and the environment alike.\r\n','-','-'),(7236,'157','Comparative Analysis of the Antioxidant and Antibacterial Activity of Methanolic Mycelium Extract from Cordyceps militaris: A Comprehensive Study','Niketan Deshmukh and Lakshmi Bhaskaran','Comparative-Analysis-of-the-Antioxidant-and-Antibacterial-Activity-of-Methanolic-Mycelium-Extract-from-Cordyceps-militaris-A-Comprehensive-Study-Niketan-Deshmukh-251.pdf','',1,'Many synthetic molecules with antioxidant and antimicrobial potential have been designed and manufactured over the last several decades. However, the potential toxicity associated with these synthetic compounds remains a major concern. Some compounds that initially exhibit promising antioxidant or antimicrobial properties in vitro or animal studies may prove to be toxic or lead to unfavorable side effects when subjected to human trials. Additionally, the issue of antimicrobial resistance is a significant hurdle in developing effective synthetic antimicrobial agents. Over time, microorganisms can develop resistance mechanisms against synthetic compounds, rendering them less effective or completely ineffective. Due to such toxicity and resistance, it did not result in a beneficial therapeutic outcome. One alternate approach to this is the use of herbal remedies. Cordyceps was used as an ancient remedy to treat several diseases in the eastern part of Asia. This study examined the antioxidant and antimicrobial properties of the methanolic mycelium extract of Cordyceps militaris. The findings revealed that the extract of the mycelium has DPPH scavenging activity with an EC50 value of 2.33 mg/ml. The antimicrobial results also showed that the methanolic extract has broad-spectrum antimicrobial activity. It is most effective against Escherichia coli (15.96 ± 0.68) as well as Pseudomonas aeruginosa (14.08 ± 0.44). These findings suggested that the methanolic mycelium extract of Cordyceps militaris could serve as a valuable antioxidant and antimicrobial natural supplement, which would eventually reduce the dependency on synthetic molecules.','Cordyceps militaris, Antioxidant, Antibacterial, MIC','In conclusion, the results of this study demonstrate the antioxidant potential and antimicrobial activity of the methanolic mycelium extract of Cordyceps militaris. The antioxidant activity was evaluated using the DPPH scavenging assay, and the extract exhibited concentration-dependent scavenging activity. The EC50 value of the extract was determined to be 2.33 mg/mL, indicating its antioxidant potential. The antimicrobial activity of the extract was assessed using the agar well diffusion method. The extract exhibited antimicrobial activity against both gram-positive and gram-negative microorganisms, although the effectiveness varied. Escherichia coli showed the highest susceptibility to the extract, while Bacillus subtilis exhibited the lowest susceptibility. The minimum inhibitory concentration (MIC) values further confirmed the antimicrobial activity of the extract, with Enterobacter aerogenes showing the lowest MIC value. The findings of this study highlight the potential applications of Cordyceps militaris as a natural antioxidant and antimicrobial agent.','-','Niketan Deshmukh and Lakshmi Bhaskaran (2023). Comparative Analysis of the Antioxidant and Antibacterial Activity of Methanolic Mycelium Extract from Cordyceps militaris: A Comprehensive Study. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 15(5): 1681-1686.'),(7237,'157','Statistical Model for annual Trends and Magnitude of Climatic variability Across Locations from the Vindhya Plateau Agroclimatic Zone of Madhya Pradesh','Ranjeet, S.K. Sharma, Sushma Jain and H.L. Khapediya','Statistical-Model-for-annual-Trends-and-Magnitude-of-Climatic-variability-Across-Locations-from-the-Vindhya-Plateau-Agroclimatic-Zone-of-Madhya-Pradesh-Ranjeet-252.pdf','',1,'Climate change has disrupted the major climatic parameters at a global level. However, the changes having localized intensity area not equal for all especially in India. These changes must be quantified locally to manage the natural water resources more effectively. Precipitation is one of the most important climatic parameters. It has been widely measured as a starting point towards the apprehension of global climate change. The purpose of this study is to observe the temporal variability of rainfall for the period of 1991-2020 (30 year), to improve the Agriculture status of different districts of Vindhya Pleatue Agroclimatic zone (District – Bhopal, Damoha, Sagar, Sehore and Vidisha). The aim of the study is to determine the trend in annual precipitation time series using the Mann-Kendall and Sen’s T test. The magnitudes of trend in precipitation have been estimated by Sen’s estimator method. Auto correlation effects were reduced before applying the Mann-Kendall test for the trend in precipitation. On the annual basis, analysis of Mann-Kendall test shows decreasing and non-significance trend in rainfall times series of all the districts except Bhopal Bhopal, Damoha, Sagar, Sehore and Vidisha which showed significant changes. ','Mann Kendall & Sen slope estimator, Trend Analysis, Climatic variability, Rainfall analysis ','In the district Bhopal months of June, July, and August have the highest rainfall amounts, with significant variability and positive trends. September shows a significant decreasing trend in rainfall. Winter and autumn seasons exhibit high variability in rainfall, while summer and the rainy season show moderate variability. No significant trends are observed in winter, summer, rainy season, or autumn rainfall. The analysis provides insights into the statistical properties and trends in rainfall for each month and season, aiding in understanding the patterns and variability in the region\'s precipitation.\r\nSagar district In conclusion, the data suggests that there is a decreasing trend in annual rainfall, although it is not statistically significant. The South West monsoon season (Jun-Sep) receives the highest amount of rainfall, while the winter season (Jan-Feb) receives the least. The data also shows a positive skewness, indicating a higher occurrence of heavy rainfall events. However, further analysis and significance testing are necessary to make more definitive conclusions.\r\nSehore district the provided data shows the monthly rainfall statistics for each month of the year, as well as the statistics for different seasonal and annual periods. The data exhibits varying degrees of variability, skewness, and kurtosis throughout the months and seasons. Some months, such as January, October, and November, show higher variability and leptokurtic distributions, indicating heavy tails and sharper peaks. Overall, the annual rainfall demonstrates moderate variability and a platykurtic distribution. It\'s important to note that these conclusions are based on the provided data, and further analysis and consideration of other factors may be required for a comprehensive understanding of the rainfall patterns.\r\nit can be observed that the relationship between the number of rainy days and the independent variable varies across different districts or regions. Some regions exhibit a weak relationship, while others show a moderate relationship. The growth rates indicate either a slight positive or negative change in the number of rainy days with an increase in the independent variable. It\'s important to note that the significance level is not provided in the given data, so we cannot make any conclusions based on it.\r\n','-','Ranjeet, S.K. Sharma, Sushma Jain and H.L. Khapediya (2023). Statistical Model for annual Trends and Magnitude of Climatic variability Across Locations from the Vindhya Plateau Agroclimatic Zone of Madhya Pradesh. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 15(5): 1687-1698.'),(7238,'163','SAM pointed domain containing ETS transcription factor: A Pro- and Anti-Oncogenic agent in Breast Cancer','Nootan Singh, Juveriya Israr and Divya Gupta','SAM-pointed-domain-containing-ETS-transcription-factor-A-Pro--and-Anti-Oncogenic-agent-in-Breast-Cancer-Nootan-Singh-65.pdf','',1,'SPDEF (SAM pointed domain containing ETS transcription factor) maintains homeostasis and differentiation of epithelial tissues and heritable alteration in cancer. SPDEF is a prostate-derived ETS factor that has been demonstrated to have a role in normal cell growth and development and also in cell survival. This transcription factor also plays a significant role in possessing dual malignancy characteristics. Breast cancer (BC) is a complex heterogeneous disease associated with multiple structures that have risen to become the leading source of cancer death in women worldwide. SPDEF has been linked to a variety of characteristics of BC. The mechanism governing SPDEF\'s pro- and anti-oncogenic effects in the BC state is yet unknown. If SPDEF is shown to significantly affect breast cancer, comprehension of its molecular mechanisms would be necessary to target it therapeutically. It is challenging to create treatments that regulate SPDEF activity while reducing side effects. In this study, we reviewed SPDEF\'s role as a multipurpose agent in expression levels, the regulation process in BC development, and its role in BC diagnosis, therapy, and prediction. Knowing SPDEF duality has assisted in getting knowledge into tumor biology as well as giving new BC treatment targets a new perspective. ','Breast Cancer, ETS, SPDEF, Oncogene, Tumor suppressor gene','SPDEF has drawn a lot of attention due to its role in oncogenesis and growth. The concept of SPDEF has been problematic in the dichotomy of cancer-regulatory genes. It is more feasible to treat SPDEF as a dual-functional gene after thoroughly summarising current findings, which will aid in understanding breast cancer heterogeneity and facilitate future research. The mechanism underlying SPDEF\'s regulation must be investigated given that we have a better understanding of its dual-functional nature. This is crucial for developing personalized therapy for each BC subtype. In the not-too-distant future, SPDEF could become a novel diagnostic and therapeutic target in breast cancer biology.','-','Nootan Singh, Juveriya Israr and Divya Gupta (2023). SAM pointed domain containing ETS transcription factor: A Pro- and Anti-Oncogenic agent in Breast Cancer. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 15(5a): 412-420.'),(7239,'164','A Comparison of Five Methods for Effective Extraction of Bacterial Metagenomic DNA from Stools of Children Suffer from Diarrhea with Unknown Cause','Thi Quy Nguyen, Thi Bich Thuy Phung, Thu Thao Ngoc and Thi Huyen Do','A-Comparison-of-Five-Methods-for-Effective-Extraction-of-Bacterial-Metagenomic-DNA-from-Stools-of-Children-Suffer-from-Diarrhea-with-Unknown-Cause-Thi-Quy-Nguyen-1.pdf','',1,'Diarrhea is common disease in children and in the most severity can cause mortality. Besides the identified-cause diarrhea, significant percent cases (accounted for 47.38% in Vietnam) having bacterial infection symptoms were unidentified reason. The typical properties of the diarrheal feces are the presence of many inhibitors against polymerase activity to amplify the indicator genes of pathogenic agents. Thus, investigation of methods for extracting bacterial metagenomic DNA with high quality and quantity from diarrheal feces for further analysis is necessary. In this research, two stool samples from children under two years old, one with persistent diarrhea of unknown cause and another of normal health, were used for bacterial metagenomic DNA extraction. Four commercial DNA extraction kits (GeneJET Genomic DNA purification kit, QIAamp Fast DNA Stool Mini Kit, E.Z.N.A Stool DNA kit, TopPURE stool DNA extraction kit), and conventional biochemical technique were used for bacterial metagenomic DNA extraction. The result showed that, from an equal amount of feces, bacterial mass in normal stool was higher than one in diarrheal feces. The bacterial metagenomic DNA from normal samples was successfully extracted with all the investigated methods at acceptable quality (the ratio A260/280 was in a range of 1.7-2.2) for next generation sequencing. However the E.Z.N.A gave very low total DNA yield, TopPURE kit generated DNA containing inhibitor impact PCR reaction. Whereas the metagenomic DNAs from the stool of diarrhea patient were only well extracted by GeneJET Genomic DNA Purification kit and biochemical method. The biochemical method gave higher DNA yield but lower DNA quality exhibited by DNA degradation. On the contrary, GeneJET Genomic DNA Purification kit generated lower DNA yield but with higher quality. All the metagenomic DNA samples extracted by two these methods did not inhibit polymerase activity in PCR for 16S rDNA amplification. Thus, the GeneJET Genomic DNA Purification kit and biochemical method will be improved for extraction of bacterial metagenomic DNA from diarrheal feces for whole metagenome sequencing.','Bacteria, biochemical method, children, diarrhea, genomic DNA extraction, kit, stool','Metagenomic DNA derived from a normal and diarrheal feces were extracted by the four commercial kits and a biochemical method. The biochemical method and GeneJET Genomic DNA Purification kit gave the best DNA concentration, yield and quality. The DNA templates up to 50 ng/reaction did not inhibit PCR for 16S rDNA amplification. Biochemical method and GeneJET Genomic DNA Purification kit should be chosen for improvement to extract metagenomic DNA from diarrhea stool samples for further analysis. ','-','Thi Quy Nguyen, Thi Bich Thuy Phung, Thu Thao Ngoc and Thi Huyen Do (2023). A Comparison of Five Methods for Effective Extraction of Bacterial Metagenomic DNA from Stools of Children Suffer from Diarrhea with Unknown Cause. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 15(8a): 01-09.'),(7240,'164','Vermicompost: A Tool for Agripreneurship Development for the Unemployed Youths of India','Popiha Bordoloi','Vermicompost-A-Tool-for-Agripreneurship-Development-for-the-Unemployed-Youths-of-India-Popiha-Bordoloi-2.pdf','',1,'Unemployment among youth is a major concern in India, with lack of skills and opportunities being major contributing factors. At the same time, there is a growing need for sustainable and eco-friendly agricultural practices to support the increasing population and reduce environmental impact. Vermicomposting provides an innovative solution that can address both these challenges by empowering unemployed youth to become Agripreneurs. Vermicompost is nutritious organic fertilizer produced through bio-oxidation and stabilization of organic material by interactions between earthworms and microorganisms. Vermicomposting is a low-cost, sustainable technique that converts waste into a valuable resource, while also generating self-employment opportunities, especially for rural and peri-urban youth. This review article highlights the immense potential of vermicomposting as a tool for sustainable Agripreneurship development among the unemployed youth of India. The key opportunities, benefits, and challenges are discussed, along with recommendations to promote vermicomposting through skill training, financial support, and market linkages. If implemented judiciously, vermicomposting can stimulate green entrepreneurship, rural transformation, sustainable agriculture and youth empowerment in India.','Vermicompost, Earthworms, Agripreneurship, Unemployment, Youth Empowerment, Sustainable Agriculture','Vermicomposting provides a sustainable means for converting organic wastes into a valuable agricultural input that enhances soil health, crop yields, and food quality. The process generates environment-friendly organic fertilizer while mobilizing unutilized organic materials. Vermicompost production through small decentralized units also offers avenues for eco-enterprise development requiring low investments. These attributes make vermicomposting well-suited for promoting green Agripreneurship opportunities for unemployed youth in India. By equipping rural and peri-urban youth with vermicomposting skills and linking them to markets, youth entrepreneurship and empowerment can be stimulated while also making agriculture sustainable. However, enabling mechanisms in the form of technical guidance, financial support, infrastructure, quality assurance, and marketing linkages are vital for the wider adoption and success of youth-led vermicompost enterprises. Purposeful policy interventions in these areas coupled with grassroots-level awareness generation can unleash vermicomposting as a win-win solution for youth unemployment and sustainable rural transformation.','-','Popiha Bordoloi (2023). Vermicompost: A Tool for Agripreneurship Development for the Unemployed Youths of India. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 15(8a): 10-13.'),(7241,'164','Study of Genetic variability in Safflower (Carthamus tinctorius L.)','Parth Gulati, Rajeev Shrivastava, Surbhi Verma, Naresh Kumar Sahu and Aditya Kukreti ','Study-of-Genetic-variability-in-Safflower-(Carthamus-tinctorius-L.)-Parth-Gulati-3.pdf','',1,'The present experiment was conducted at the Research cum Instructional farm of Indira Gandhi Krishi Vishwavidyalaya, Raipur, Chhattisgarh, during rabi 2021-22 in order to study the genetic parameters and correlation among yield contributing traits in safflower. Eighteen safflower genotypes including 3 checks viz., A-1, PBNS 12 and IGKV kusum were evaluated. The largest levels of genotypic and phenotypic variability were reported for traits like biological yield per plant, seed yield per plant, number of capitula per plant, harvest index, and 100 seed weight. For variables like plant height, seed weight per hundred seeds, biological yield, and seed yield per plant, high heritability with high genetic advance estimate has been estimated. Association studies indicated that seed yield per plant is positively correlated with number of primary branches per plant (0.117), number of capitulum per plant (0.108), 100 seed weight (0.216), harvest index (0.462**) and oil content (0.371**) while shows negative association with days to 50% flowering (-0.257), days to maturity (-0.006) and plant height (-0.532**). Oil content exhibited significant positive correlation with biological yield / plant (0.649**). ','Safflower, PCV, GCV, heritability, genetic advance, correlation, oil content, seed yield','The values of PCV were higher than the values of GCV indicated the various amount of influence of environment in different traits existed which also confirmed by the percentage of heritability. \r\nTraits like oil content, plant height, days to 50% flowering, days to maturity and 100 seed weight had high heritability indicating stable inheritance of these traits from generations without much influence of environment. While harvest index and seed yield/plant had minimum heritability i.e., much influenced by environment. The lowest heritability was noticed for biological yield/plant.\r\nAssociation studies indicated that seed yield/plant is positively correlated with number of primary branches/plant, number of capitulum/plant ,100 seed weight, harvest index and oil content while shows negative association with days to 50% flowering, days to maturity and plant height.\r\n','-','Parth Gulati, Rajeev Shrivastava, Surbhi Verma, Naresh Kumar Sahu and Aditya Kukreti (2023). Study of Genetic variability in Safflower (Carthamus tinctorius L.). Biological Forum – An International Journal, 15(8a): 14-17.'),(7242,'164','Comparative Study of Engineering and Physical Properties of Whole Grain and Milled Little Millet (Panicum sumatrense)','Shivbilas Maurya, S.S. Shukla, K.C. Mahajan and B.L. Sahu','Comparative-Study-of-Engineering-and-Physical-Properties-of-Whole-Grain-and-Milled-Little-Millet-(Panicum-sumatrense)-Shivbilas-Maurya-4.pdf','',1,'The present study was focused on physical properties of entire and milled little millet. The moisture content was estimated to be between 7.68 and 9.88% (dry basis), based on the physical and engineering properties. The milled kutki millet showed an important enhancement in the physical characteristics of the millet. The milled millet showed higher bulk density and true density (0.85, 1.41) as compare to kutki whole grain (0.73, 01.16), while thousand grain weight exhibited an increase in whole grains (2.67) whereas milled kutki (2.18). The angle of repose observed maximum value (28.64°) in milled kutki as compared to kutki whole grain (25.26°), while yellowness index were maximum value (76.23) in kutki whole grain followed by milled kutki (45.22). The whiteness index and aspect ratio observed maximum in milled kutki (58.96 and 0.75) followed by kutki whole grain (40.33, 0.60). The sphericity value was maximum (1.71) in whole grain followed by milled kutki (1.39). The experiment found that the (Gravimetric characteristics, frictional properties, and colour index) for both whole and hulled kutki millets were performed. The hulling improved all of the physical and engineering properties of millet. The whiteness index for hulled millet was enhanced in the colour values. Due to the preservation of their physico-engineering makeup, the design of storage structures and post-harvest processing machines allows for extended storage of dehulled kutki and kutki whole grain millet.','Little millet, Physical properties, Engineering properties. Yellowness Index, Whiteness Index','The study\'s outcomes reveal notable enhancements in physical attributes such as hue, angle of repose, and sphericity. Milling of the millet led to an elevation in their whiteness index. In comparison to intact grains, the milling process entails more cohesive interactions, resulting in a heightened angle of repose (piling effect). While the fundamental dimensions and attributes of minor millets diminished upon de-hulling, their radius and aspect ratio demonstrated augmentation. The presence of coarse hulls preventing grain collapse accounted for the lower bulk density, implying increased inter-grain interaction. Hulled grains exhibited higher density upon tapping, attributed to their more compact alignment, along with reduced porosity. Subsequently, the identified physical and engineering characteristics hold potential for application in local manufacturing and the development of straightforwardly deployable integrated harvester-thresher systems, grading equipment, de-hullers, conveying mechanisms, silos, MVT-based grain sorters, as well as milling components, both at commercial and decentralized domestic scales.','-','Shivbilas Maurya, S.S. Shukla, K.C. Mahajan and B.L. Sahu (2023). Comparative Study of Engineering and Physical Properties of Whole Grain and Milled Little Millet (Panicum sumatrense). Biological Forum – An International Journal, 15(8a): 18-22.'),(7243,'164','Antimicrobial Resistance of Microbial Flora of cervical Mucosal Discharge Associated with Reproductive Performance of Cow Estrus','Shambhavi, Manish Kumar Shukla, Harshit Verma, Suresh Kumar, Ashutosh Tripathi, Atul Kumar Verma, Atul Gupta and Koushlesh Ranjan ','Antimicrobial-Resistance-of-Microbial-Flora-of-cervical-Mucosal-Discharge-Associated-with-Reproductive-Performance-of-Cow-Estrus-Harshit-Verma-5.pdf','',1,'The use of antimicrobial agents is becoming increasingly widespread and alarming, not only in India but throughout the world. Controlling the misuse of antimicrobials is a challenge that often leads to the development of bacterial resistance and increased costs associated with chronic disease and healthcare services. Investigating AMR in bacteria isolated from cattle cervix prior to insemination is the main goal of this study. Cervical mucosal discharge (CMD) were collected aseptically from 18 cows between 3 to 6th parity prior to their first insemination and transported to the laboratory in the nutrient broth for carrying microbiological examination. After culturing on agar plates, bacterial isolates were identified by conventional and molecular methods. Antimicrobial susceptibility test was determined by disc diffusion technique against 12 antibiotics drugs. Bacteria isolated were mostly E. coli (61.11%), Staphylococcus spp. (11.11%), Mixed Infection (16.67%) and Candida spp. (11.11%). E. coli bacteria are most commonly associated with the cervical mucosal cases. The present results revealed that E. coli were highly sensitive against ciprofloxacin, gentamycin, and levofloxacin followed with cotrimoxazole (81.8%), nitrofurantoin (72.7%), oxytetracycline (72.7%) and ampicillin/sulbactum (63.6%). In conclusion, bacteria from the cow cervix showed low resistance to most antibiotics and antibacterial resistance may increase with increasing parity. It was also observed that the isolated E. coli have average resistance of 30% to seven antimicrobials. The highest resistance rates were seen with cefixime (81.8%) followed with trimethoprime (72.7%), ampicillin/sulbactum (36.4%), cotrimoxazole (18.2%), nalidixic acid (36.4%), nitrofurantoin (27.3%) and oxytetracycline (27.3%). The current study suggested that CMD should be evaluated more carefully when there are infertility problems. ','Antimicrobial resistance, Cervical swabs, antibiotics','The bacteria isolated in this study from all animals were mostly E. coli, Staphylococcus spp., Candida spp. and mixed infection and were evenly distributed among individuals and farms. E. coli were more common followed with Staphylococcus in cows. A higher concentration of antibiotics was required to slow bacterial growth in isolates from cows which might suggest that resistance in the cervical flora could develop in response to the antibiotics. ','-','Shambhavi, Manish Kumar Shukla, Harshit Verma, Suresh Kumar, Ashutosh Tripathi, Atul Kumar Verma, Atul Gupta and Koushlesh Ranjan (2023). Antimicrobial Resistance of Microbial Flora of cervical Mucosal Discharge Associated with Reproductive Performance of Cow Estrus. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 15(8a): 23-27.'),(7244,'164','A Review on Biocontrol mechanisms of Pseudomonas spp.','Prashanth Kumar A., Nikhil B.S.K., Ashwin Kumar B. and Gajanand P. ','A-Review-on-Biocontrol-mechanisms-of-Pseudomonas-spp.-Prashanth-Kumar-A-6.pdf','',1,'The improper use of chemicals such as fertilizers and pesticides cause incredible damage to the environment and ecosystems, as well as to the human body. Instead of these dangerous agrochemicals, a biological solution can be offered in the form of microorganisms that promote plant growth without significantly harming the environment. Plant growth promoting rhizobacteria (PGPR), which suppress or prevent phytopathogenic damage is one of the biological approaches to control various phytopathogenic pathogens. Pseudomonas PGPR are the best characterized bio controlling PGPRs. Because they are abundant in natural soils, plant roots and are able to utilize many plant exudates as nutrients. In addition to their ability to adhere to soil particles and rhizoplanes, fluorescent pseudomonads are capable of motility, prototrophy, synthesis of antibiotics and production of hydrolytic enzymes, which contribute to bacterial fitness. Moreover, Pseudomonas possesses plant growth-promoting traits such as nitrogen fixation, phosphate solubilization, iron chelation and phytohormone production. By analyzing rhizosphere competence and biocontrol traits, novel tools may be developed for managing indigenous and inoculated P. fluorescens biocontrol agents. For sustainable agriculture, this will also improve their plant-beneficial properties. This multidimensional utility makes fluorescent Pseudomonas an ideal bioagent for agricultural use.','Pseudomonas PGPR, agrochemicals, antibiotics, hydrolytic enzymes and Phytohormones','Despite being applied to their target niche, biocontrol agents still need support in order to succeed. For biological control to be effective, the biocontrol agent must not only be of high quality, but also established in the natural environment so it can thrive and compete effectively with pathogens. In addition to ensuring persistence in the field and compatibility with chemical and biological seed treatments, better formulations are a key focus. Future bioagents using P. fluorescens will have a very high cost-benefit ratio. Based on this, the first assumption is to isolate P. fluorescens from the rhizosphere of a wide variety of field crops which exhibit enhanced antagonistic activity against soil-borne fungal pathogens in native environments, and then determine whether selected bacteria can suppress soil-borne fungal pathogens in vitro.','-','Prashanth Kumar A., Nikhil B.S.K., Ashwin Kumar B. and Gajanand P. (2023). A Review on Biocontrol mechanisms of Pseudomonas spp.. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 15(8a): 28-34.'),(7245,'164','Evaluation of Bio-Agents against Rhizoctonia solani of Rice under in vitro conditions','Goskula Kiran and Raghunath Mandal','Evaluation-of-Bio-Agents-against-Rhizoctonia-solani-of-Rice-under-in-vitro-conditions-Goskula-Kiran-7-6228.pdf','',1,'Numerous biotic and abiotic factors have an impact on rice production and productivity, resulting in yield losses of up to 20–30%. considered In all regions of the world where rice is farmed, fungi infections are the most common biotic limitations. One of the main biotic restrictions on rice production in India is sheath blight, which is also the most economically significant disease of rice in the world. R. solani Kuhn, a fungal pathogen of both rice and soybeans, is the disease\'s cause (teleomorph: Thanatophorus cucumeris (Frank) Donk). When growing in a certain kind of naturally suppressive soil, a fungus called Trichoderma spp. protects plants from infectious diseases spread by pathogens in the soil. One of these soil-borne pathogens that severely damages economically significant crops is the fungus Rhizoctonia solani. In agriculture, using bio-control agents like Trichoderma spp. to fight infections and provide disease control is a viable option. The challenges regarding the bio-control of Rhizoctonia solani is scarely known to the farmers. Bio-control agents significantly suppress the growth of plant pathogenic microorganisms and regulate the rate of plant growth. The results of the present study suggest that Tricoderma harzianum has a highly antagonistic potential against the test pathogen. The experiment conducted to examine the responses of different isolates towards four bio control viz., T. viride, T. harzianum, Bacillus spp, Pseudomonas spp, by dual culture method. The zone inhibition of R. solani isolates in all four bio-agents was assessed. The findings clearly show that Tricoderma viride and Bacillus spp were the most efficient at inhibiting Rhizoctonia solani isolates. Trichoderma viride inhibited the growth of RS-10 by 77.1 percent. Bacillus spp. inhibited isolate no RS-5\'s growth the most.\r\n','Rhizoctonia solani, Tricoderma spp, Bacillus spp','The pathogen R. solani significantly reduces the yield of important crops for the economy. T.viride, and Bacillus species, is extremely helpful in controlling diseases brought on by R. solani. Significant progress has been made as a result of the active marketing of T. viride and members of the Bacillus spp. family as bio-control agents. Because of the negative effects that pesticide residues have on the environment and the health of organisms, the market demand for bio-control agents and PGBR has increased recently. Bacillus species and R. solani\'s effects on the microbial community and the plant rhizosphere are being studied using metagenomic sequencing. A thorough understanding of the mechanism at work needs to be investigated despite the abundance of reports on the genetic understandings of the interactions between Bacillus species and R. solani and plants. In conclusion, Bacillus spp. and T. viride has multifaceted beneficial features that may be ideal for its integrated use in disease control.\r\nVarious isolates of R. solani were successfully inhibited from growing in dual culture studies using the bioagents T. viride and Bacillus spp. The highest growth inhibition was observed against RS-5 in Bacillus species (68.9%), while the highest growth inhibition was observed against RS-3 in T. viride (77.10%).\r\n','-','Goskula Kiran and Raghunath Mandal (2023). Evaluation of Bio-Agents against Rhizoctonia solani of Rice under in vitro conditions. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 15(8a): 35-40.'),(7246,'164','Documentation of Nursery Disease of Teak in Forestry Plantation','M. Soumyakala, C.Ushamalini, G. Thiribhuvanamala, K.T. Parthibhan and P. Radha ','Documentation-of-Nursery-Disease-of-Teak-in-Forestry-Plantation-M.-Soumyakala-8.pdf','',1,'Teak (Tectona grandis) is one of the most important timber trees of India and South-east Asia were grown in various states like Madhya Pradesh, Maharashtra, Tamil Nadu, Karnataka, Andhra Pradesh and Kerala. The Teak grown nurseries were affected by several pest and diseases, hence to record the incidence of pest and diseases the survey was conducted. Survey was conducted during 2022-23 in forest nurseries of various places of Coimbatore districts viz, Mettupalayam, Sirumugai, Madukkarai, Walayar and Coimbatore Teak nurseries. Various foliar diseases viz Powdery Mildew caused by Pseudo oidium tectonae, Leaf rust (Olivea tectona), leaf spot (Cercospora sp)along with wilt caused by F.oxysporum were recorded. Leaf rust, leaf spot existed throughout the season in the nursery while the powdery mildew observed during May-June and October to December, the incidence of root diseases was also noticed throughout the season in the nurseries. Among the diseases, the incidence of Cercospora leaf spot (29.8 PDI) and Root rot (38.1%) were severe in Teak nurseries.\r\nThe diseases and their prevalence might vary in other regions and over different years. The study identified some diseases based on symptoms, but a more detailed analysis involving molecular techniques could provide accurate identification of pathogens, strains, and their genetic diversity. The study focused on individual pathogens, but interactions between different pathogens might exacerbate disease severity. These are some of the challenges of this study. This study also contributes valuable information by documenting the presence and severity of various diseases affecting Teak seedlings in forest nurseries .It also identified seasonal patterns of disease occurrence, which is crucial for developing targeted disease management strategies and optimizing resource allocation. The study provides a foundation for future research endeavors, such as investigating the genetic diversity of pathogens, understanding disease interactions, and developing effective disease control methods.\r\n','Teak, Survey, Incidence, Root rot, cercospora leaf spot','In conclusion, the survey conducted in various forest nurseries of Coimbatore district revealed the presence of several diseases affecting Teak seedlings. The foliar diseases observed were Powdery Mildew caused by Pseudo oidium tectonae, Leaf rust (Olivea tectonae), and Leaf spot (Cercospora sp), while the root diseases included Wilt caused by F. oxysporum and Root rot. The severity of these diseases varied across the surveyed locations and seasons. Among the diseases, Powdery Mildew showed a significant incidence in Sirumugai (62.3% PDI) and Walayar (48.9% PDI), while Rust was more prevalent in Madukkarai (20.9% PDI). Leaf spot was widely distributed across all seasons, and the incidence varied from one location to another. Wilt and Root rot were observed throughout the year, with varying degrees of severity in different nurseries. The findings highlight the importance of monitoring and managing these diseases in Teak nurseries to minimize their impact on seedling health and growth. Effective disease management practices should be implemented to safeguard the Teak saplings, which are essential for the sustainable supply of this valuable timber tree.','-','M. Soumyakala, C.Ushamalini, G. Thiribhuvanamala, K.T. Parthibhan and P. Radha (2023). Documentation of Nursery Disease of Teak in Forestry Plantation. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 15(8a): 41-44.'),(7247,'164','Correlation and path analysis for seed cotton yield and yield attributing traits in multiple cross derivatives of upland cotton (Gossypium hirsutum L.) under high density planting system','Gopala Krishna Murthy K. and Pradeep T.','Correlation-and-path-analysis-for-seed-cotton-yield-and-yield-attributing-traits-in-multiple-cross-derivatives-of-upland-cotton-(Gossypium-hirsutum-L.)-under-high-density-planti-Gopala-Krishna-Murthy-K-9.pdf','',1,'India is one of the leading producers of cotton in the world and the productivity of cotton is stagnated in the recent past due to cultivation of robust hybrids by adopting wider spacing. One of the options to enhance cotton productivity is to develop short and compact plant types amenable for high density planting system. Keeping in view, the need of the hour, an experiment was conducted at Agricultural College, Aswaraopet during Kharif 2016 to understand the nature and magnitude of relationship among yield and yield attributing traits in 52 multiple cross derivatives of cotton by partitioning correlation coefficients between yield and its’ contributing traits into direct and indirect effects. Data was recorded on seed cotton yield and eight yield contributing characters like days to 50% flowering, plant height, number of monopodia, number of sympodia, length of the sympodial branches, number of bolls, boll weight and 100-seed weight. The results of correlation revealed that seed cotton yield exhibited high positive correlation with boll weight, number of bolls, length of the sympodial branches and moderate positive association with number of sympodia and plant height, indicating the importance of these traits in enhancing yield under high density planting system. Path coefficient analysis revealed that the highest positive direct effect on seed cotton yield was registered by boll weight and number of bolls plant-1. Thus, from the studies on correlation and path analyses, it could be suggested that the characters viz., boll weight, number of bolls plant-1, length of the sympodial branches, number of sympodia and plant height could be used as selection criteria for improving seed cotton yield under high density planting system. ','Correlation, path coefficient, multiple cross derivatives, seed cotton yield and high density planting system','The results of the present study concluded that the traits viz., boll weight, number of bolls plant-1, length of the sympodia, plant height and number of sympodia plant-1 were found to be key parameters indicating that the increase in seed cotton yield is due to increase in one or more of the above traits and therefore selection on these traits would be useful to enhance yield whereas boll weight, number of bolls plant-1 were found to exhibit direct effect with seed cotton yield plant-1 and need to be considered as significant criteria for improvement of seed cotton yield under narrow spacing. ','-','Gopala Krishna Murthy K. and Pradeep T. (2023). Correlation and path analysis for seed cotton yield and yield attributing traits in multiple cross derivatives of upland cotton (Gossypium hirsutum L.) under high density planting system. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 15(8a): 45-50.'),(7248,'164','Effect of Dates of Sowing and varieties on Growth Parameters of Groundnut Crop during rabi Season','S. Vyshnavi, K. Indudhar Reddy, S.G. Mahadevappa and G. Kiran Reddy ','Effect-of-Dates-of-Sowing-and-varieties-on-Growth-Parameters-of-Groundnut-Crop-during-rabi-Season-S-Vyshnavi-10.pdf','',1,'A field experiment was conducted at Agro Climate Research centre (ACRC), Agricultural Research Institute (ARI), Rajendranagar, Professor Jayashankar Telangana State Agricultural University (PJTSAU), Hyderabad to investigate the impact of different dates of sowing and varieties on the growth parameters of groundnut crop during the rabi season 2022-2023. The experiment was laid out in split plot design with main plots three sowing dates: D1 -22nd October, 2022, D2 - 7th November, 2022, and D3 - 22nd November, 2022 and five subplots with five varieties: V1– TMV-13, V2– VRI-10, V3– DH-256, V4– GJG-33, and V5– K-6 and replicated three times. The results revealed that the plant height at physiological maturity of groundnut was significantly higher in the crop sown on 22nd November, 2022 (44.7 cm) than that of crop sown on 22nd October, 2022 (39.7 cm) and 7th November, 2022 (41.3 cm). However, dates of sowing had no significant influence on leaf area of groundnut cropat physiological maturity. Drymatter production at physiological maturity was significantly higher in crop sown on22nd Oct, 2022 (6267 kg ha-1) than that of crop sown on7th Nov, 2022 (5800kg ha-1) and 22nd Nov, 2022 (5395kg ha-1). \r\nAmong the varieties, plant height at physiological maturity significantly higher in variety K-6 than that of VRI-10, DH-256 and GJG-33 but on par with TMV-13. However, leaf area (cm2 plant-1) at harvest was significantly higher in theK-6 (1456.2 cm2 plant-1) than that of TMV -13 (1045.9 cm2 plant-1) and GJG-33(1203.4 cm2 plant-1) but on par with VRI-10 (1256.2 cm2 plant-1) and DH-256 (1230.4 cm2 plant-1) and for drymatter production (kg ha-1) at physiological maturity was significantly higher in variety DH-256 (6043 kg ha-1) than that of TMV-13 (5778 kg ha-1), VRI-10 (5606kg ha-1) and GJG-33 (5725 kg ha-1) but on par with K-6 variety (5952 kg ha-1).\r\n','Plant height, leaf area and drymatter production','Based on response of groundnut to different sowing dates and varieties in respect to growth parameter, The following conclusions can be drawn.\r\nAmong the sowing dates the plant height at harvest of groundnut was significantly higher in the crop sown on 22nd November, 2022 (44.7 cm) than that of on 22nd October, 2022 (39.7 cm) and 7th November, 2022 (41.3 cm). However, dates of sowing had no significant influence on leaf area of groundnut cropat harvest and drymatter production at harvest was significantly higher on 22nd Oct, 2022 (8890 kg ha-1) than that of crop sown on 22nd Nov, 2022 (7044 kg ha-1) and 7th Nov, 2022 (8278 kg ha-1).\r\nAmong the varieties, plant height at harvest was significantly higher in K-6 (46.4 cm) than that of VRI-10 (42.2 cm), GJG-33 (37.2 cm) and DH-256 (39.7 cm) which is on par with the TMV-13 (44.1cm). However, lowest plant height was recorded with variety GJG-33 (37.2 cm) but on par with the DH-256 (39.7 cm). However, leaf area (cm2 plant-1) at harvest was significantly higher in theK-6 (1456.2 cm2 plant-1) than that of TMV -13 (1045.9 cm2 plant-1) and GJG-33(1203.4 cm2 plant-1) but on par with VRI-10 (1256.2 cm2 plant-1) and DH-256 (1230.4 cm2 plant-1) and drymatter production (kg ha-1) at harvest were significantly higher in variety DH-256 (8639 kg ha-1) than that of TMV-13 (7581 kg ha-1) and GJG-33 (7522 kg ha-1) but on par with. VRI-10 (8210kg ha-1) and K-6 variety (8400 kg ha-1).\r\n','-','S. Vyshnavi, K. Indudhar Reddy, S.G. Mahadevappa and G. Kiran Reddy (2023). Effect of Dates of Sowing and varieties on Growth Parameters of Groundnut Crop during rabi Season. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 15(8a): 51-57.'),(7249,'164','Yield Gap Analysis of Cowpea Varietal Demonstrations in Eastern Region of \r\nUttar Pradesh, India\r\n','Rajneesh Srivastava, Kamlesh Meena, Neeraj Singh and T.K. Behera','Yield-Gap-Analysis-of-Cowpea-Varietal-Demonstrations-in-Eastern-Region-of--Kamlesh-Meena-11.pdf','',1,'Cowpea is one of the most significant legume vegetable crops, thriving in dry environments and growing well in soils containing up to 85 percent sand particles. As a result, it is a key crop in semi-arid and arid locations where few other crops can grow. It is a short-season and very profitable crop for vegetable growers; nevertheless, in the Eastern Region of Uttar Pradesh, the main issues restricting production and productivity of this crop are the use of traditional cultivars with poor management techniques. ICAR-IIVR-KVK, Deoria held 23 front line demonstrations (FLDs) on 2.09 ha of farmer land in several adopted villages. High yielding varieties, watering, sowing dates, sowing methodologies, seed treatment, plant geometry, fertilizer dose, intercultural operations, and plant protection methods are among the agricultural approaches now being front-line demonstrated. Over farmers\' practices, the average green pod production grew by 14.72%. Due to the front-line demonstration of cowpea over farmers\' practices during both of the demonstration\'s years, the net return increased to 27.19%. Over a two-year timeframe, technology had a 14.47% greater benefit-cost ratio than farmer approaches. The improved B: C ratio and yield gap figures demonstrate that the method is more useful in eastern Uttar Pradesh, India. This appears to be a result of the agricultural community in the eastern plains of Uttar Pradesh not implementing suggested high-yielding cultivars and cutting-edge production techniques.','Cowpea, Front line demonstration, Farmers practice, Yield and Benefit-cost ratio','The findings of the frontline demonstration demonstrated that cultivating better varieties, together with improved crop management practices, significantly increased cowpea growers\' productivity and profitability. Farmers were satisfied with the performance of both Cowpea types, Kashi Nidhi and Kashi Kanckan, and encouraged other farmers to adopt them on a large scale in their area, paving the way for their horizontal spread.','-','Rajneesh Srivastava, Kamlesh Meena, Neeraj Singh and T.K. Behera (2023). Yield Gap Analysis of Cowpea Varietal Demonstrations in Eastern Region of Uttar Pradesh, India. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 15(8a): 58-61.'),(7250,'164','Piriformospora indica-root colonization Improved the Shelf Life and Quality Parameters of Ripe and unripe Fruits of Banana var. Nendran','Sinijadas K., Joy Michal Johnson, Radhika N.S. and Manju R.V. ','Piriformospora-indica-root-colonization-Improved-the-Shelf-Life-and-Quality-Parameters-of-Ripe-and-unripe-Fruits-of-Banana-var.-Nendran-Sinijadas-K-12.pdf','',1,'Piriformospora indica is an axenically cultivable fungal root endophyte that contributes multifaceted benefits to plants. The role of P. indica in improving quality parameters of ripe and unripe stages of banana (Musa acuminata) var. Nendran was investigated. The physical, biochemical and organoleptic status were quantified during the green (unripe) and ripe stages. Both shelf life and beta carotene content were enhanced in the fruits of P. indica-colonized plants compared to control. All physical parameters like, bunch weight, fruits per hand, fruit length, fruit weight and fruit diameter were significantly enhanced in bunches obtained from P. indica-colonized banana plants. Biochemical parameters viz., total sugars, pH, total reducing sugars, beta carotene, protein and carbohydrate contents were also substantially increased in fruits obtained from the fungus colonized plants. In contrast, crude fibre and moisture content were reduced in ripe fruits obtained from the colonized plants compared to their respective control plants. Beta carotene was increased by 93.9 per cent; and pH, total reducing sugars and acidity were increased progressively during ripening of the fruits obtained from the colonized plants. These fruits recorded 34 per cent more total sugars, which indicate the degree of sweetness of the fruit. The carbohydrate, fibre and moisture content were high in unripe banana fruits obtained from the colonized plants compared to control plants. The unripe fruits had 13.2 and 52.15 per cent high carbohydrate and protein contents respectively compared to the respective unripe control fruit. The present study also revealed that P. indica could enhance the shelf life of banana fruits by slowing down the ripening process, thereby increasing its marketability. Furthermore, sensory evaluation confirmed the overall acceptability of banana fruits from the endophyte colonized plants compared to fruits from the control plants. Thus P. indica-colonized banana plants render fruit quality improvement with enhanced shelf-life of fruits to a reasonable extent.','Banana fruit, Piriformospora indica, Physical Parameters, Biochemical parameters, organoleptic characters','P. indica-colonization exhibited significant growth promoting effects in banana plants. P. indica significantly enhanced the number of roots, facilitated nutrient uptake and increased banana yield. The present work concluded that the one-time application of P. indica inoculum in the rhizosphere under agricultural conditions is sufficient to enhance the growth and development of banana plants during the entire crop period which results in higher yield and better fruit quality. Both ripe and unripe banana fruits of P. indica-colonized plants recorded significantly enhanced total sugars, protein and carbohydrate contents, while experiencing decreased moisture and fibre contents. The increased total sugars and decreased moisture content in fruits are attributed to its enhanced sweetness. Along with the physical and quality parameters, P. indica improved the overall acceptability of banana fruits by promoting early maturity and delayed ripening.','-','Sinijadas K., Joy Michal Johnson, Radhika N.S. and Manju R.V. (2023). Piriformospora indica-root colonization Improved the Shelf Life and Quality Parameters of Ripe and unripe Fruits of Banana var. Nendran. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 15(8a): 62-70.'),(7251,'164',' Feeding substitutes -A Management Tool for Enhancing the Pollen and Honey area during Dearth Period in Apis cerana Fabricius in Kashmir','Bismat un Nisa, Muneer Ahmad, M.A. Parray, S.S. Pathania, Javeed Iqbal and Humira Mushtaq','Feeding-substitutes--A-Management-Tool-for-Enhancing-the-Pollen-and-Honey-area-during-Dearth-Period-in-Apis-cerana-Fabricius-in-Kashmir-Muneer-Ahmad-13.pdf','',1,'The experiment was conducted at an apiary maintained at the Division of Entomology, SKUAST-K, Shalimar from July to September during the year, 2020to develop efficient and cheap nectar substitute for dearth period management of Apis cerana honeybee colonies. The syrup containing apple juice, sugar and mixture of both was evaluated as a diet supplement to develop an efficient feeding substitute. Bees were provided with the four nectar feeding substitutes viz., T1, apple juice and sugar in the ratio of 1:1; T2, apple juice and sugar in the ratio of 1.5:1; T3 apple juice alone and T4, sugar syrup in the ratio of 1:1 and compared with T5 natural feeding to determine their impact on desirable attributes of colonies. The feeding substitutes supplemented resulted in the gradual increase in the pollen and honey area (sq cm). The pollen area (347.78 sq cm) and honey area (854.76sq cm) was maximum in T2, apple juice and sugar in the ratio of 1.5:1, followed by T1; apple juice and sugar in the ratio of 1:1 (pollen area; 328.57 sq cm, honey area; 818.76 sq cm) and T4; sugar syrup in the ratio of 1:1(pollen area; 316.16 sq cm, honey area; 768.16 sq cm). All the desirable parameters were found to be least in T5 natural feeding. So, among the evaluated feeding supplement treatments; apple juice and sugar in the ratio of 1.5:1 (T2) was the best nectar feeding substitute during dearth period followed by apple juice and sugar in the ratio of 1:1 (T1). The nectar feeding substitutes are better for colony health than a complete lack of proteins and carbohydrates which otherwise cause starvation. They are most useful during the times of floral dearth period that stimulate colony growth. The efforts put into the nectar feeding substitutes would assist beekeepers to use this knowledge in order to improve colony management and thereby, colony health.','Apis cerana, apple juice, dearth period, feeding substitutes, honey, pollen ','The practice of beekeeping is a year round process. Management applied during dearth floral period will positively affect the colony performance sooner or later. The primary objective of this study was to develop an economical and efficient nectar substitute for dearth period management of honeybees. The results so obtained have great significance for beekeepers for efficient colony management during lean floral period. From the present findings, it can be safely concluded that bees have accepted all the nectar feeding substitutes and have shown a positive impact on incremental pollen and honey area. Thus, beekeepers can use nectar substitutes to improve the nutrition of honeybees especially when there are less floral rewards.','-','Bismat un Nisa, Muneer Ahmad, M.A. Parray, S.S. Pathania, Javeed Iqbal and Humira Mushtaq (2023). Feeding substitutes -A Management Tool for Enhancing the Pollen and Honey area during Dearth Period in Apis cerana Fabricius in Kashmir. Biological Forum - An International Journal, 15(8a): 71-75.'),(7252,'164','Qualitative Screening of Phytochemicals of Taraxacum officinale F.G. Wigg and Urtica ardens Link','Deeksha Bharti, J.L. Singh, Niddhi Arora, S.K. Rastogi, A.H. Ahmad and Munish Batra','Qualitative-Screening-of-Phytochemicals-of-Taraxacum-officinale-F.G.-Wigg-and-Urtica-ardens-Link-Deeksha-Bharti-14.pdf','',1,'Medicinal plants contain plethora of phytochemicals which constitutes various pharmacological activities such as antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, antibacterial, anthelmentic, anti-diabetic, immunomodulatory etc. The biological activities of medicinal plants can be used efficienty for their pharmacological action. Herbal medicine is one of the primeval forms of medicine which is prepared exclusively from herbal plants. This, study investigates the qualitative analysis of varied phytochemicals in 50 percent hydromethanolic leaves extract of Taraxacum officinale F.G. Wigg and Urtica ardens Link. Various chemical tests were performed for qualitative screening of phytochemicals in both plant extracts. The results revealed the presence of an array of phytochemicals in both plant extracts. The phytochemicals present were Alkaloids, Flavonoids, Carbohydrates, Terpenoids, Tannins, and Phenols. These all the phytocompounds have biological activities which can be utilized against various ailments. Alternative medicine based on phytomedicine can be used futuristically against resistance for synthetic pharmacological agents. Taraxacum officinale F.G Wigg and Urtica ardens Link can be utilized for manufacturing of novel therapeutic compounds. Many studies had been conducted on other species of Urticacea family such as Urtica dioica while properties of Urtica ardens has still been unexplored and not much literature is present on Urtica ardens pharmacological activities. Therefore, this study can give an outline about the phytoconstituents present in Urtica ardens as well as in Taraxacum officinale, and these phytoconstituents can be explored further for pharmacological actions.','Phytochemicals, Taraxacum officinale F.G. Wigg, Urtica ardens Link, Alternative medicine','Plants are a unique source of bioactive compounds with biological activities and medicinal properties. The choice of solvents plays an important role in the extraction of bioactive chemicals. This study concluded that various phytochemicals such as alkalois, flavonoids, terpenoids, phenols, tannins are present in both the plants, which constitutes various pharmacological activities. Medicinal plant based alternative medicine has pronounced therapeutic effects against various ailments and has a potent potential to reverse the resistance towards synthetic drugs. The use of medicinal plants in empirical research and the development of new drugs is noteworthy. Therefore, Taraxacum officinale F.G. Wigg and Urtica ardens Link can be used as a futuristic alternative therapy against an array of ailments and can be used for development of novel drugs.','-','Deeksha Bharti, J.L. Singh, Niddhi Arora, S.K. Rastogi, A.H. Ahmad and Munish Batra (2023). Qualitative Screening of Phytochemicals of Taraxacum officinale F.G. Wigg and Urtica ardens Link. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 15(8a): 76-81.'),(7253,'164','A Review of Traditional and Prospective Vegetable, Medicine, Spice-Yielding Edible Flowers, and Some Toxic Non-Edible Flowers of West Bengal','Bandyopadhyay A., Mondal R., Sahu J.K., Reza Md. A., Tirki K. and Thaneshwari ','A-Review-of-Traditional-and-Prospective-Vegetable,-Medicine,-Spice-Yielding-Edible-Flowers,-and-Some-Toxic-Non-Edible-Flowers-of-West-Bengal-Bandyopadhyay-A-15.pdf','',1,'The EAT-Lancet Commission in 2019 advocated for a change in the global food system to one that is sustainable and nutritious. In West Bengal, poor households spend more on entertainment than on purchasing food materials, so edible flowers are one of the inexpensive dietary sources and provide a sensory contribution to foodstuffs. In West Bengal, vegetable curries prepared from the flowers of banana, pumpkin, agati, drumstick, etc. are very popular for their taste and nutritional supplementation. Edible flowers have many bioactive substances that have anti-cancer, cardioprotective, and anti-inflammatory qualities, as well as being useful in the management of diabetes, obesity, and neurological illnesses. On the other side, a few flowers have toxic substances that, if consumed by people in small quantities, can cause allergies and some dreaded diseases. Some common flowers have ornamental or crop values that are edible in several countries but not in West Bengal, making them prospective for future consumption as a new inexpensive food source.','West Bengal, Nutritious flowers, poisonous flowers, future edible flowers, food processing, pharmaceutical, alternate food','In nature, flowers are wonderful creatures for their beauty and are a major organ for sexual reproduction. Flowers are an integral part of many people’s livelihoods, particularly those involved in commercial floriculture and nursery businesses. Since ancient times, many flowers have been grown for their edible qualities and used as vegetables to provide nutrients such as carbohydrate, fat, protein, minerals, and vitamins. Some of the edible flowers are consumed as spices for their beautiful flavour and taste and used in medicines for their active constituents, which protect humans from several dreaded diseases. The flowers are now used to prepare different health drinks and garnish food plates to attract people’s palates. Now a days, people are searching for alternate foods and some of the edible flowers that are grown in our surroundings but are not known for their edible nature in West Bengal, whereas they have been famous for consumption purposes in different countries for a long time, so they may be comfortably and securely adopted for consumption purposes without any hazardous side effects. On the other hand, there are some flowers that are consumed in different forms in our country, but people are unaware of the presence of toxic and allergic components in them. Therefore, scientific awareness is required before choosing any flower for consumption purposes. ','-','Bandyopadhyay A., Mondal R., Sahu J.K., Reza Md. A., Tirki K. and Thaneshwari (2023). A Review of Traditional and Prospective Vegetable, Medicine, Spice-Yielding Edible Flowers, and Some Toxic Non-Edible Flowers of West Bengal. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 15(8a): 82-93.'),(7254,'164','Estimation of Heterosis for Seed Yield and it’s contributing Traits in Opium Poppy (Papaver somniferum L.)','S. Aparna, Amit Dadheech, Hemlata Sharma, Narendra Kumar Padiwal, and Mukesh Kumar Yadav','Estimation-of-Heterosis-for-Seed-Yield-and-it’s-contributing-Traits-in-Opium-Poppy-(Papaver-somniferum-L.)-S-Aparna-16.pdf','',1,'Opium poppy is a valuable multipurpose crop, with long standing legacy of medicinal and pharmaceutical utilities and have also been emerged as a model crop by virtue of it’s versatility and uniqueness. Keeping in mind, the requirements of genetic enhancement and better breeding advancements of the poppy, a line × tester analysis was carried out to assess the heterosis, heterobeltiosis and economic heterosis of fifty four F1 hybrids developed by crossing 18 lines/females and 3 testers/males of diverse parents along with two suitable checks for thirteen viable economical traits in Papaver somniferum L. The hybrids were evaluated in a randomized block design during Rabi 2022-2023 at RCA, MPUAT Udaipur. The analysis of variance concluded the presence of variability among parents and crosses for the characters studied. Significant parents v/s hybrids contrast were observed for all characters, except for days to maturity, indicating the presence of considerable amount of genetic diversity in the experimental material. The cross UOP-78 × UOP-20 exhibited positive significant economic heterosis over the best check Chetak Aphim for seed yield per plant and also maximum relative heterosis and heterobeltiosis for seed yield per plant and harvest index for seed yield. The cross UOP-150 × UOP-80 showed maximum significant positive relative heterosis for capsule husk yield, length of main capsule and capsule size, maximum significant positive heterobeltiosis for capsule husk yield and capsule size and maximum positive economic heterosis for length of main capsule and capsule size. UOP-107 × UOP-80 showed all three heterotic parameters for number of stigmatic rays per capsule and maximum significant relative heterosis and heterobeltiosis for diameter of main capsule was shown by UOP-45 × UOP-80 . UOP-79 × UOP-20 showed maximum positive significant values of relative and economic heterosis for number of effective capsules per plant. Therefore, these promising crosses can be recommended for exploitation of heterosis to obtain appropriate segregants for crop improvement program in opium poppy.','Heterosis, Heterobeltiosis, Economic heterosis, Opium poppy, Papaver somniferum L','Based on the findings, it was found that the cross UOP-78 × UOP-20 exhibited positive significant economic heterosis over the best check Chetak Aphim for seed yield per plant and also maximum relative heterosis and heterobeltiosis for seed yield per plant and harvest index for seed yield. The cross UOP-150 × UOP-80 showed maximum significant positive relative heterosis for capsule husk yield, length of main capsule and capsule size, maximum significant positive heterobeltiosis for capsule husk yield and capsule size and maximum positive economic heterosis for length of main capsule and capsule size. This cross also showed negative heterosis for days to 50 per cent flowering.UOP-107 × UOP-80 showed all three heterotic parameters for number of stigmatic rays per capsule and maximum significant relative heterosis and heterobeltiosis for diameter of main capsule was shown by UOP-45 × UOP-80. UOP-79 × UOP-20 showed maximum positive significant values of relative and economic heterosis for number of effective capsules per plant. \r\nThus, in the present study, cross UOP-78 × UOP-20 is found most promising with respect to it’s economic heterotic parameters and hence can be handled according to appropriate breeding methods for varietal development in opium poppy.\r\n','-','S. Aparna, Amit Dadheech, Hemlata Sharma, Narendra Kumar Padiwal, and Mukesh Kumar Yadav (2023). Estimation of Heterosis for Seed Yield and it’s contributing Traits in Opium Poppy (Papaver somniferum L.). Biological Forum – An International Journal, 15(8a): 94-103.'),(7255,'163','Effect of Biofertilizer based Organic Nutrient Management in Soil Health and Productivity Enhancement of Pea (Pisum sativum) in North East India','Popiha Bordoloi','Effect-of-Biofertilizer-based-Organic-Nutrient-Management-in-Soil-Health-and-Productivity-Enhancement-of-Pea-(Pisum-sativum)-in-North-East-India-Dr.-Popiha-Bordoloi-66.pdf','',1,'In organic farming system the use of biofertilizer plays a significant role due to its sustainability to improve the soil health, microbial activity, soil fertility and productivity of crops. The farmer of North East India mostly uses imbalance fertilizer in their crop field either by organic or by inorganic means. Moreover, the Hilly part of this region mostly use organic matter in imbalance dose in their crop field. So, the productivity of vegetable crop is very less compare to other part of India. This study on ‘Effect of Biofertilizer based organic nutrient management in soil health and productivity enhancement of pea (Pisum sativum) in North East India’ evaluates the impact of organic matters along with biofertilizers on properties of soil, availability of nutrients, growth and yield parameter of pea for contributing a better understanding of sustainable agricultural practices in the region as well as for profit maximization in vegetable cultivation. The study was done through field study, analysis of different parameters of growth and yield of pea, soil testing and through statistical evaluations. For the present study a FLD programme was done in the Farmers Field of Ri-Bhoi District to demonstrate a Technology with comparison to local Farmer practices. The Treatments comprises were T1: FYM @ 5 t/ha + @400 kg/ha+ vermicompost @ 5 t/ha + Rhizobium 10kg/ha + PSB10kg/ha + Organic Mulch and T2: Farmers Practice (FYM 5t/ha). The pea variety taken was Aman which was covered in 1 ha. of Land in five villages namely Thadnongiew, Umeit, Kyrdem, Nonglakhiet and Nongpoh. The results of the FLD revels that the T1 gives higher yield of 28.6 q/ha with B:C ratio of 2.69 as compare to Farmers practice i.e., 16.8 q/ ha with B: C ratio of 1.82. The organic carbon, available nitrogen, available phosphorus and available potassium were significantly higher in the treated plot as compare to Farmers practice. The results of the FLD revels the feasibility of adoption of Biofertilizer based organic nutrient management practices in North East India as a sustainable approach for increase the productivity of crop as well as for enhancement of soil health for the development of socio-economic status of this region.','Biofertilizer, Organic Nutrient Management, Pea, Crop Productivity. Sustainable Agriculture','The use of beneficial microorganism by biofertilizers, generate and release the nutrients which increases the soil fertility required for crop growth and development. Moreover, it improves the soil structure and promote nutrient cycling and helps for organic matter breakdown. The present demonstration clearly stated that the biofertilizer based organic nutrient management can significantly increase the Pea crop yield and nutrient availability of the soil for plant uptake. So, the technology can be successfully used for promoting organic farming in North East Hilly region of India as a sustainable approach for profit maximization and for economic upliftment of the region. Further researches are required to examine the long-term effects of biofertilizer application on soil health and crop productivity in different locations of North Eastern region. The large-scale adoption of biofertilizer-based organic nutrient management practices will be possible through large scale dissemination of the demonstrated Technology as well as by introduction of new technology to nearby areas for sustainable agriculture for achieving a productive and resilient agricultural system.','-','Popiha Bordoloi (2023). Effect of Biofertilizer based Organic Nutrient Management in Soil Health and Productivity Enhancement of Pea (Pisum sativum) in North East India. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 15(5a): 421-423.'),(7256,'164','Genetic Divergence for Yield and Yield Attributes in Bitter Gourd (Momordica charantia L.)','Sachin Bhati, Satya Prakash, Vipin Kumar, Deepak Kumar, Bijendra Singh, Manoj Kumar Singh, Vishal Gangwar and Avdhesh Kumar','Genetic-Divergence-for-Yield-and-Yield-Attributes-in-Bitter-Gourd-(Momordica-charantia-L.)-Deepak-Kumar-17.pdf','',1,'Twenty diverse genotypes were evaluated at Horticulture research centre of SVP university of Agriculture and Technology, Meerut during spring season, 2022. The experiment was laid out in Randomized block design with three replications. The analysis of variance revealed significant among all the genotypes for all the characters under study. Mahalanobis D2 statistics revealed that a considerable genetic diversity was found among genotypes. Twenty genotypes of bitter gourd were formed in five clusters. The cluster I comprised highest 13 genotypes, Cluster II comprised 3 genotypes, Cluster V comprised 2 genotypes, cluster III and cluster IV comprised 1 genotype each respectively. The maximum intra-cluster distance was recorded in cluster II, cluster V, cluster I, cluster III and cluster IV with minimum intra-cluster distance, suggested that the genotypes of cluster II are more heterogeneous whereas, genotype of cluster II are comparatively homogenous based on intra-cluster distance. The maximum inter-cluster distance was recorded in cluster IV and cluster III whereas, the minimum inter-cluster distance was observed in cluster II and cluster I.','Genetic Diversity, Bitter gourd, Yield and Cluster analysis','Mahalanobis D2 statistics on genetic divergence showed that a significant amount of genetic diversity was observed. There are five separate genetic clusters formed from 20 genotypes. The cluster I (13 genotype) were the maximum number of genotype and minimum in cluster III and cluster IV (1 genotype) respectively. Based on the D2 value in respect to the values for the distances between and within clusters. Cluster II had the highest intra-cluster distance, which indicates that its genotype is more heterogeneous than cluster II\'s genotype, which is comparatively homogeneous based on intra-cluster distance. Cluster II was followed by cluster V, cluster I, cluster III, and cluster IV with intra-cluster distance. Clusters IV and III had the greatest inter-cluster distances that were seen. The smallest inter cluster distance, however, was found in clusters II and I. As can be seen from the modest variance of D2 values, the genotype of the cluster does not differ greatly with respect to their relative genetics.','-','Sachin Bhati, Satya Prakash, Vipin Kumar, Deepak Kumar, Bijendra Singh, Manoj Kumar Singh, Vishal Gangwar and Avdhesh Kumar (2023). Genetic Divergence for Yield and Yield Attributes in Bitter Gourd (Momordica charantia L.). Biological Forum – An International Journal, 15(8a): 104-109.'),(7257,'164','Effect of integrated Weed Management Practices on Growth and Yield of Cauliflower (Brassica oleracea var. botrytis)','Mohit Sharma, Deependra Yadav, Sandeep Kumar, Ravinder Kumar and Alok Kumar','Effect-of-integrated-Weed-Management-Practices-on-Growth-and-Yield-of-Cauliflower-(Brassica-oleracea-var.-botrytis)-Mohit--Sharma-18.pdf','',1,'The present investigation entitled “Effect of integrated weed management on growth and yield of cauliflower (Brassica oleracea var. botrytis L.)” was carried out at the Agriculture Research Farm of Abhilashi University, Mandi during 2021-2022 to evaluate the effect of integrated weed management practices on growth and yield of cauliflower. The experiment was laid out in a randomized block design (RBD) with three replications, and seven treatments. Soil of the experimental field was slightly acidic in nature with low in nitrogen and medium in phosphorus and potassium content and low in organic carbon. The result revealed that (T2) Weed free recorded the highest plant heights (44.06 cm) at 60 DAT, number of leaves at (17.40) at 60 DAT, diameter of curd (16.43) at harvest, days to harvesting (90.14) at harvesting, fresh weight of leaves (230.57) at harvest, dry weight of leaves (27.67) at harvest and average weight of curd (644.53) at harvest, yield per plot (9.03kg) and yield per hectare (225.83 q) which was followed by (pendimethalin 1.5 Kg/ha + HW 30 DAT (T7). While the maximum weed count (89.66), fresh weight of weeds (1733.96 g), and dry weight of weeds (312.11 g) were observed under (T1) weedy check, and the minimum weed count (0.00), fresh weight of weeds (0.00 g) and dry weight of weeds (0.00g) were observed under weed free (T2). The highest WCE (100%) and lowest weed index (0.00%) were observed in (T2) weed-free and the lowest WCE (0.00 %) and highest weed index (72.07%) were in weedy check (T1). Stellaria media L., Vicia sativa L., Lysimachia arvensis var. caerulea (L.), etc., were the major weeds observed in the experimental field. Gross income was recorded high in treatment T2 (weed free) while net income and B:C was recorded maximum under treatment T7 (Pendimethalin @ 1.5 kg a.i./ha + one HW at 30 DAT), making it an economically practical option for controlling weeds in cauliflower.','IWM, Cauliflower, growth, treatments, yield','From the experimental observations, it can be concluded that data for growth, yield, and weed parameters were examined by using the statistical package OPSTAT was determined to be significant. The growth, yield, and quality attributes were found to be highest under treatment T2 (weed-free). It was also very helpful in controlling the weeds at all growth stages. The highest cost of cultivation ` 139415.5 was reported in T2 (weed-free) because of the high labour cost. However, the highest net return and benefit-cost ratio were found highest in treatment T7 (Pendimethalin 1.5 kg/ha. + HW after 30 DAT) due to the lesser cost of cultivation. Hence, the treatment T7 (Pendimethalin 1.5 kg/ha. + HW after 30 DAT) has proved to be the best for attaining the maximum return under the climatic conditions of Chail Chowk, Mandi (HP).','-','Mohit Sharma, Deependra Yadav, Sandeep Kumar, Ravinder Kumar and Alok Kumar (2023). Effect of integrated Weed Management Practices on Growth and Yield of Cauliflower (Brassica oleracea var. botrytis). Biological Forum – An International Journal, 15(8a): 110-114.'),(7258,'164','Effect of Abiotic Factors on the Population Fluctuation of Yellow Mite, Polyphagotarsonemus latus (Banks) on Chilli and their Correlation','Laxman Singh Saini, Hari Prasad Meghwal, Bal Kishan Patidar and Mangal Sukhi Meena ','Effect-of-Abiotic-Factors-on-the-Population-Fluctuation-of-Yellow-Mite,-Polyphagotarsonemus-latus-(Banks)-on-Chilli-and-their-Correlation-Laxman-Singh-Saini-19.pdf','',1,'Chilli mites pose a significant threat to chili crops globally, causing substantial yield losses through leaf damage, reduced photosynthesis, and fruit distortion. Effectively managing chilli mite infestations is challenging due to their rapid reproduction, ability to develop resistance to pesticides, and the complexity of interacting factors such as temperature, humidity, and crop physiology that influence their population dynamics. So, we conducted a field experiment to study the population fluctuation of yellow mite, Polyphagotarsonemus latus(Banks) in chilli crop and its relation with different weather variables during rabi seasons, 2020-21 under unprotected conditions. The results revealed that the mite incidence (0.73 mite/3 leaves) was initially started after 5th week of transplanting of chilli seedling (47th SMW). Population of mite was gradually increased and reached it’s peak (3.47 mite/3 leaves) after 17th week of transplanting (7th SMW) and their after mite population decrease and remained active up to 22nd weeks after transplanting (12th SMW) with mean population 0.87mite/3 leaves. Correlation of mite population with weather parameters revealed that maximum temperature, minimum temperature, evening relative humidity and rainfall showed negatively correlated (r= - 0.4218, - 0.6286, -0.2020 and -0.1264, respectively) while, morning relative humidity was positively correlated (r= 0.1812).','Chilli, Yellow mite, Correlation, Abiotic factors, Population fluctuation','The mite incidence (0.73 mite/3 leaves) was initially started 3rdweek of November of (47th SMW) and reached it’s peak (3.47 mite/3 leaves) second week of February (7th SMW). Mite population showed negative correlation with maximum temperature, minimum temperature, evening relative humidity and rainfall while, positively correlation with morning relative humidity.','-','Laxman Singh Saini, Hari Prasad Meghwal, Bal Kishan Patidar and Mangal Sukhi Meena (2023). Effect of Abiotic Factors on the Population Fluctuation of Yellow Mite, Polyphagotarsonemus latus (Banks) on Chilli and their Correlation. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 15(8a): 115-118.'),(7259,'164','Evaluation of Different Insecticides against White Fly, Bemisia tabaci (Gennadius) Infesting Black Gram','Mangal Sukhi Meena, Hari Prasad Meghwal, Laxman Singh Saini, Suresh Kumar Jat, Bal Kishan Patidar and Devesh Parmar ','Evaluation-of-Different-Insecticides-against-White-Fly,-Bemisia-tabaci-(Gennadius)-Infesting-Black-Gram-Mangal-Sukhi-Meena-20.pdf','',1,'Black gram whitefly (Bemisia tabaci) is a significant pest that inflicts substantial yield losses in black gram crops by sap-sucking, inducing yellowing of leaves, and transmitting devastating plant viruses, making its effective management crucial for ensuring crop productivity. The present study was undertaken to determine the bio-efficacy of six insecticides viz., Thiamethoxam 25 WG @ 100 g/ha, Acetamiprid 20 SP @ 100 g/ha, Chlorantraniliprole 18.5 SC @ 150 ml/ha, Imidacloprid 17.8 SL @ 125 ml/ha, Profenofos 50 EC @ 1250 ml/ha and Neem Seed Kernel Extract (NSKE) 5 Per cent @ 25 kg/ha against white fly of black gram crop. All the insecticidal treatments were found significantly superior in reducing the population of white fly as compared to control after 10 days of spray. Among all the treatments, Thiamethoxam 25 WG @ 100 g/ha was found most effective with minimum population (2.87 white fly/5 plant) followed by Acetamiprid 20 SP @ 100 g/ha (3.07 white fly/5 plant).','Black gram, White fly, Bio-efficacy, Significantly, Insecticide','All the insecticidal treatments were found significantly superior in reducing the population of white fly as compared to control after 10 days of spray. Among all the treatments, Thiamethoxam 25 WG @ 100 g/ha was found most effective with minimum population (2.87 white fly/5 plant) followed by Acetamiprid 20 SP @ 100 g/ha (3.07 white fly/5 plant).','-','Mangal Sukhi Meena, Hari Prasad Meghwal, Laxman Singh Saini, Suresh Kumar Jat, Bal Kishan Patidar and Devesh Parmar (2023). Evaluation of Different Insecticides against White Fly, Bemisia tabaci (Gennadius) Infesting Black Gram. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 15(8a): 119-122.'),(7260,'164','Studies on Vegetative Attributes Affected by Bio fertilizers on Different Cultivars of Pear (Pyrus communis L.) under the Climatic Condition of Western Uttar Pradesh','Bharat Tiwari, Arvind Kumar, Satya Prakash, Vipin Kumar, Yogesh Kumar, Shalini Singh, Vishal Gangwar and Mohit Kumar ','Studies-on-vegetative-attributes-affected-by-bio-fertilizers-on-different-cultivars-of-Pear-(Pyrus-communis-L.)-under-the-climatic-condition-of-western-Uttar-Pradesh-21.pdf','',1,'An experiment was conducted during 2021 to 2023 at Horticultural Research Centre of Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel University of Agriculture and Technology, Meerut, U.P., to investigate the impact of biofertilizers on the vegetative characteristics of five pear varieties: Babugosha, Punjab Beauty, Punjab Gold, Punjab Nectar, and Gola. These varieties were subjected to varying doses of bio fertilizers, including different combinations of Azotobacter, Trichoderma, PSB, and Vermicompost. Eight distinct treatments were formulated by combining these biofertilizer components. Plants are associated with rhizospheric microbes, which have the ability to promote crop growth and stress tolerance, enhance plant nutrition, and improve vegetation propagation. Thus, the formulation and application of biofertilizers containing these beneficial microbes is a promising approach to improve horticultural crops. Out of the 8 treatments applied, the findings of the study revealed that among the different biofertilizer applications, Treatment 8 (T8), consisting of N-100% + P-100% + Azotobacter (100g) + PSB (100g) + Trichoderma (50g) + vermicompost at 3kg, exhibited favourable interactions with variety 5 (V5), known as the Gola variety. This treatment resulted in the highest plant height (6.42 and 6.50 cm), maximum number of lateral branches (25.69 and 26.03) per plant, greatest stem girth (31.59 and 31.98 mm), and largest canopy spread (3.66 and 3.69 m) over both years of the experiment. These combination of N-100% + P-100% + Azotobacter (100g) + PSB (100g) + Trichoderma (50g) + vermicompost at 3kg proved to be the most effective in promoting the vegetative growth of the trees, specifically enhancing parameters such as plant height, number of lateral branches, plant canopy size, and stem girth in the case of the Gola variety.','Bio fertilizer, Plant Canopy, Cultivar of pear, INM, vermicompost','In conclusion, the combination of T8 treatment (N-100%+P-100%+Azotobacter 100g + PSB 100g + Trichoderma 50g + vermicompost at 3kg) demonstrates remarkable performance across various aspects of vegetative growth. Specifically, the V5 Gola variety exhibits a strong compatibility with the integrated use of this biofertilizer composition comprising N-100%+P-100%+Azotobacter 100g + PSB 100g + Trichoderma 50g + vermicompost at 3kg, particularly within the context of the western Uttar Pradesh region. It is noteworthy that the Gola variety, in conjunction with the aforementioned biofertilizer blend, showcases exceptional potential. Therefore, the application of N-100%+P-100%+Azotobacter 100g + PSB 100g + Trichoderma 50g + vermicompost at 3kg is recommended for optimal outcomes in the cultivation of the Gola variety, emphasizing its superior performance when utilized in tandem with this biofertilizer combination.','-','Bharat Tiwari, Arvind Kumar, Satya Prakash, Vipin Kumar, Yogesh Kumar, Shalini Singh, Vishal Gangwar and Mohit Kumar (2023). Studies on vegetative attributes affected by bio fertilizers on different cultivars of Pear (Pyrus communis L.) under the climatic condition of western Uttar Pradesh. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 15(8a): 123-132.'),(7261,'163','Assessing the Validity of an Informative E-Booklet: A Structured Teaching Programme to Promote Preventive measures for Non-specific Low Back Pain among Undergraduate College Students','Sumedha Bhatia and Barkha Khurana','Assessing-the-Validity-of-an-Informative-E-Booklet-A-Structured-Teaching-Programme-to-Promote-Preventive-measures-for-Non-specific-Low-Back-Pain-among-Undergraduate-College-Students-Sumedha-Bhatia-67.pdf','',1,'The prevalence of non-specific low back pain among college students is a common cause for concern in terms of their health. The aim is to develop and validate the content of an e-booklet that serve as a structured teaching program to promote preventative measures for non-specific low back pain among the population. The primary purpose of the research was to validate the e-booklet by evaluating the quality of its content. Specifically, the researchers aim to make sure that the material that was presented was accurate, clear, understandable, and comprehensive. The methodology consisted of a two-step process. Before beginning to educate undergraduate college students about low back pain, a comprehensive literature search was performed. It included significant information on the prevention and treatment of low back pain. Firstly, it served as the foundation for the education of undergraduate college students. Second, the content included in the e-booklet was assessed for accuracy using the Delphi technique. Hoffman\'s suggestions were taken into consideration while the e-booklet was being developed. The total content validity of the e-booklet was determined to be 1.0 on the Content Validity Index (CVI), which indicates a high level of content validity. Additionally, each individual section inside the e-booklet achieved a CVI of 1.0, indicating a high level of relevance, correctness, clarity, and completeness throughout the entirety of the content. Expert input from the validation procedure was quite helpful, and the final e-booklet was substantially improved as a result. The results of the validation showed that the e-booklet had a high level of content validity in each of the following six categories: time and objective, content, writing language, illustration, layout, and general features. During the process of validating the e-booklet in a single step, all of the items in the booklet achieved acceptable levels, which were defined as being greater than 0.80. Challenges of the study includes potential limitations in participant recruitment and retention. Despite these challenges, the study contributes significantly to the field by providing a structured teaching program in the form of an informative e-booklet. This innovative approach addresses a gap in existing educational strategies for preventing non-specific low back pain among the target population.','Booklet, content Validity, CVI score, Low Back Pain, College Students',' The e-booklet has effectively created and verified as a comprehensive teaching program designed for non-specific low back pain in college students. The e-booklet exhibited a notable degree of precision, lucidity, and comprehensiveness, as seen by its content validity, which was verified across multiple areas. ','-','Sumedha Bhatia and Barkha Khurana (2023). Assessing the Validity of an Informative E-Booklet: A Structured Teaching Programme to Promote Preventive measures for Non-specific Low Back Pain among Undergraduate College Students. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 15(5a): 424-427.');
INSERT INTO `pdf_upload` VALUES (7262,'164','Effect of Graded Levels of Nitrogen and Potassium on Growth and Yield of Elephant Foot Yam [Amorphophallus paeoniifolius (Dennst.) Nicolson] Under Terai Region of West Bengal','Ankita Debnath, Ram Krishna Sarkar, J.C. Jana, Safal Rai and Sindhu V. ','Effect-of-Graded-Levels-of-Nitrogen-and-Potassium-on-Growth-and-Yield-of-Elephant-Foot-Yam-[Amorphophallus-paeoniifolius-(Dennst.)-Nicolson]-Under-Terai-Region-of-West-Bengal-Ankita-Debnath-22.pdf','',1,'In the current status of research on this so far, a very meager number of findings on nutrient management with nitrogen and potassium fertilizer applications are available in the Terai region of West Bengal. Therefore, it has become very important to find out how appropriate fertility levels affect the growth and yield of elephant foot yam in this region. The present experiment was conducted at the Experimental Farm, Regional Research Sub-Station (TZ), Uttar Banga Krishi Viswavidyalaya, Kharibari, Darjeeling during 2019-20 and 2020-21 to study the effect of nitrogen and potassium on growth and yield of elephant foot yam var. Bidhan Kusum. The experiment was laid out in 5 x 3 factorial randomized block design (RBD) with three replications. Individually, nitrogen and potassium levels had a significant impact on practically all growth including plant height, canopy spread and leaflet number and yield indices. Among the treatments investigated, T11 (N @ 200 kg/ha and K2O @ 100 kg/ha) produced the highest corm yield in terms of corm bulking rate (CBR), corm diameter, corm weight and corm yield during both trials. As a result, fertilizer doses of 200 kg/ha nitrogen and 100 kg/ha potassium may be recommended for higher yields of elephant foot yam under Terai agro-climatic conditions in West Bengal.','Elephant foot yam, nitrogen, potassium, growth, yield','The aforementioned experiment with the elephant foot yam var. Bidhan Kusum showed that increasing levels of nitrogen and potassium fertilizer significantly affected almost all of the plant\'s growth characteristics, but that applying too much nitrogen and potassium fertilizer might reduce the corm yield. The information presented in the aforementioned figures made it abundantly evident that T11 (N @ 200 kg/ha +K2O@ 100 kg/ha) offered the highest yields and economic returns. Therefore, for increased yields of elephant foot yam under Terai agro-climatic conditions in West Bengal, fertilizer doses including 200 kg/ha of nitrogen and 100 kg/ha of potassium may be advised.','-','Ankita Debnath, Ram Krishna Sarkar, J.C. Jana, Safal Rai and Sindhu V. (2023). Effect of Graded Levels of Nitrogen and Potassium on Growth and Yield of Elephant Foot Yam [Amorphophallus paeoniifolius (Dennst.) Nicolson] Under Terai Region of West Bengal. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 15(8a): 133-139.'),(7263,'164','Association and Path coefficient Analysis Among Grain Yield and it’s component Traits in Barley (Hordeum vulgare L.)','Payal Agarwal, Abhay Dashora, Avadhoot B. Dharmadhikari, Parul Gupta, Himansuman and Urmila ','Association-and-Path-coefficient-Analysis-Among-Grain-Yield-and-it’s-component-Traits-in-Barley-(Hordeum-vulgare-L.)-Payal-Agarwal-23.pdf','',1,'A study was undertaken to estimate character association and path coefficient analysis for grain yield and its contributing traits in 36 novel barley genotypes grown in Randomized Block Design with three replications during Rabi, 2022-23. The grain yield per plant had a positive and significant correlation with number of effective tillers per plant, number of grains per spike, 1000-grain weight and biological yield per plant at both genotypic and phenotypic levels while with harvest index at genotypic level only. The characters namely biological yield per plant, 1000-grain weight, number of effective tillers per plant, days to 75 percent heading and grain protein content had high positive direct effect on grain yield per plant. Thus, these traits are to be considered as the most important yield contributors and due emphasis should be given while attempting yield improvement in barley.','Barley, correlation coefficient, path analysis','In the light of above findings, it may be concluded that improvement in the characters like biological yield per plant, 1000-grain weight, number of effective tillers per plant, number of grains per plant and plant height will help in improving the seed yield in barley both directly and indirectly. Therefore, these characters should be considered for yield improvement in barley breeding programme.','-','Payal Agarwal, Abhay Dashora, Avadhoot B. Dharmadhikari, Parul Gupta, Himansuman and Urmila (2023). Association and Path coefficient Analysis Among Grain Yield and it’s component Traits in Barley (Hordeum vulgare L.). Biological Forum – An International Journal, 15(8a): 140-143.'),(7264,'164','Heterosis Studies in Line × Tester Crosses of Maize for Yield and its Component Traits in Maize (Zea mays L.) Across Locations','Bichewar Nagesh Dattatray, B.V. Vara Prasad, M.V. Nagesh Kumar, N. Sunil, B. Mallaiah and A. Meena ','Heterosis-Studies-in-Line-Tester-Crosses-of-Maize-for-Yield-and-its-Component-Traits-in-Maize-(Zea-mays-L.)-Across-Locations-Bichewar-Nagesh-Dattatray-24.pdf','',1,'Heterosis is a quantifiable, trait-dependent and environment-specific phenotype, and the response of parental lines and their hybrids to environments resulted in various levels of heterosis hence, conformation of standard heterosis in maize hybrids is essential to exploit them commercially and thereupon uplifting their production potential. Therefore, the present study was designed in order to deduce the hybrid potential and useful heterosis to magnify the production and productivity of maize. Thirty single cross hybrids along with four standard checks were evaluated at three location using randomized block design during rabi, 2022-23. Analysis of variance due to mean square of genotype exhibit significant difference for all the studied traits indicating the presence of sufficient variation. Thirteen hybrids recorded the higher grain yield than the best check Bio 9544 and GP 329×GP 83, GP 82×GP 83 and PFSR 145×GP 69 were the top performers. Seven hybrids (GP 329×GP 83, GP 82×GP 83, PFSR 145×GP 69, GP 329×GP 86, PFSR 393×GP 107, GP 329×GP 107 and PFSR 204× GP 107) exhibited the significant and positive heterosis over the best check hybrid. Hybrid PFSR 393×GP 86 for ear length, GP 329×GP 69 for ear girth, GP 329×GP 86 for number of kernel per ear and number of kernel per row and PFSR 393×GP 83 for 100 grain weigh reported the significant heterosis in desirable direction over best checks. The hybrid GP 329×GP 83 had higher yield potential and found to be early in maturity indicating its significance in developing potential early maturing maize hybrid. The identified promising hybrids could be endorsed for future breeding programme following the conformation of results by repeating the research across locations.','Useful heterosis, Hybrids, Checks','The phenomenon of heterosis in maize is important for identification and development of promising hybrids in breeding program. PFSR 393×GP 36 recorded the lowest mean value for the earliness traits, indicating the significance of this hybrids in development of early maturing variety. Similarly, PFSR 145×GP 83 recorded the lowest plant height thus useful for developing short stature lodging tolerant hybrids. On the other hand, GP 329×GP 86 recorded the higher mean value for most of the yield attributing traits whereas, the hybrid GP 329×GP 83 recorded highest mean for grain yield among all hybrids. \r\nThe hybrid PFSR 393×GP 36 and GP 329×GP 83 recorded the lowest heterosis for flowering traits and days to maturity respectively. PFSR 145×GP 83 and GP 82×GP 86 recorded the lowest heterosis for plant and ear height respectively. Hybrid PFSR 393×GP 86 for ear length, GP 329×GP 69 for ear girth, GP 329×GP 86 for number of kernel per ear and number of kernel per row, PFSR 393×GP 83 for 100 grain weight and GP 329×GP 83 for grain yield recorded the highest heterosis in desirable direction indicated their potential for exploiting hybrid vigour in breeding programme and might be used for obtaining high yielding maize hybrids. The hybrid GP 329×GP 83 can be tested extensively for the development of potential early maturing hybrids. \r\n','-','Bichewar Nagesh Dattatray, B.V. Vara Prasad, M.V. Nagesh Kumar, N. Sunil, B. Mallaiah and A. Meena (2023). Heterosis Studies in Line ×Tester Crosses of Maize for Yield and its Component Traits in Maize (Zea mays L.) Across Locations. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 15(8a): 144-151.'),(7265,'164','Effect of different Tillage and Residue Management Practices on Nodules Number of Pigeonpea under Pigeonpea + Maize Inter Cropping Systems in Semi-arid Tropics','Nallagatla Vinod Kumar, Gajanan Sawargaonkar, C. Sudha Rani, T. Ram Prakash, S. Triveni and Ch. Sarada','Effect-of-different-Tillage-and-Residue-Management-Practices-on-Nodules-Number-of-Pigeonpea-under-Pigeonpea-Maize-Inter-Cropping-Systems-in-Semi-arid-Tropics-Nallagatla-Vinod-Kumar-25.pdf','',1,'Pigeonpea (Cajanus cajan L.) plays a pivotal role in sustaining millions of resource-poor farmers across semi-arid regions in Asia and Africa. Amidst the challenges of global climate change, this study investigates the effect of Different Tillage and Residue Management Practices on Nodule Number of Pigeonpea under Pigeonpea + Maize Intercropping Systems in Semi-Arid Tropics. The research was conducted in ICRISAT (International Crops Research Institute for the Semi-Arid Tropics), situated in Patancheru, Hyderabad. The experiment was laid out in split-split design. Treatments consists of 2 tillage practices (minimum tillage (Running rotavator once two months before sowing of the crop + Herbicide use as Pre & Post emergence) and conventional tillage (Ploughed with mould board plough once, cultivated and harrowed twice + 2 HW and 1 weeding), 4 row ratios (pigeonpea + maize (1:2 in Additive series), pigeonpea + maize (1:3 in additive series), sole pigeonpea, sole maize ) and 3 residue management practices (biochar - Soil application (biochar of pigeonpea stubbles @ 5 t ha-1) residues maize residues as per available crop; in intercropping, quantity is as per crop proportion) and control (no. biochar and no. residue). The experiment was laid out in a split – split plot design with 3 replications. The five plants from border rows were uprooted carefully by digging around the plant by crowbar and the plants were washed under running tap in sieve and the fresh nodules and dry nodules were counted and expressed in (No. plant-1) at active nodulation stages i.e. 30, 45 and 60 days after sowing. Row ratios and residue management practices had a significant influence on number of nodules in pigeonpea under pigeonpea and maize intercropping systems in semi-arid tropics.','Pigeonpea, Tillage, Row ratios and Residue management practices','In conclusion, conventional tillage fosters more robust root nodules, sole pigeonpea exhibits higher nodule formation and biochar application enhances nodule development through improved soil structure and microbial activity. These findings align with existing research and emphasize the significance of soil conditions in promoting effective nitrogen fixation in pigeonpea crop.','-','Nallagatla Vinod Kumar, Gajanan Sawargaonkar, C. Sudha Rani, T. Ram Prakash, S. Triveni and Ch. Sarada (2023). Effect of different Tillage and Residue Management Practices on Nodules Number of Pigeonpea under Pigeonpea + Maize Inter Cropping Systems in Semi-arid Tropics. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 15(8a): 152-156.'),(7266,'164','Impact of different Sowing Dates and Cultivars on Yield and Economics of Blackgram during rabi in North Western Plateau Zone of Odisha','Debasmita Das, Nirmala Patel, Debasmita Nayak, Sumana Balo and D.K. Jaiswal ','Impact-of-different-Sowing-Dates-and-Cultivars-on-Yield-and-Economics-of-Blackgram-during-rabi-in-North-Western-Plateau-Zone-of-Odisha-Nirmala-Patel-26.pdf','',1,'A Field experiment was carried out during rabi 2018-2020 at RRTTSS, Kirei, Sundargarh district of Odisha to assess “Impact of different sowing dates and cultivars on Yield and Economics of blackgram during rabi in North Western Plateau zone of Odisha”. Three varieties (PU 31, IPU 0243 and OBG 41) were sown at spacing of 30 × 10 cm2 under five sowing dates viz., 8th November’19, 23rd November’19, 8th December’19, 23rd December’19 and 7th January’20. The experiment was laid out in FRBD with fifteen treatments and three replications. The treatment D1 V1 (8th November and variety PU-31) was found significantly superior with respect to yield over all other treatments. Among all varieties, PU-31 and among the sowing dates, 8th November’19 performed better followed by sowing date D2 (23rd November) and variety V3 (OBG-41). The variety IPU-0243 and sowing date D4 (23rd December) recorded with least yield and yield attributes. It was observed that when all the 3 varieties were sown on first date (8th November), highest yield (677 kg/hectare) was obtained whereas when all varieties were sown on fourth date (23rd December), the least yield (487 kg/hectare) was attained by the crop. The maximum gross returns (Rs. 34426.33/ha), net returns (Rs. 19408.56/ha), Return per Rupee invested (2.28) was recorded in sowing date D1 (8th November) and among all varieties, highest gross returns (Rs. 30612.84/ha), net returns (Rs. 15595.07/ha), Return per Rupee invested (2.03) was recorded in V1(PU 31). The fundamental hypothesis underpinning this experiment aimed to ascertain the optimal sowing date and the optimal choice of varieties for cultivation in the specified area. The proposed hypothesis holds the potential to offer valuable insights to farmers within the Sundargarh district, fostering enhanced crop productivity and facilitating high revenue generation.','Black gram, economics, sowing dates, yield, parameters','On the basis of the field experimentation on Weather effects on yield of blackgram cultivars under different growing environment during rabi in North Western Plateau zone of Odisha, it could be concluded that the black gram variety PU 31 recorded with the highest yield over other two varieties, i.e., OBG 41 and IPU 0243 during the investigation under Treatment D1 8th November.','-','Debasmita Das, Nirmala Patel, Debasmita Nayak, Sumana Balo and D.K. Jaiswal (2023). Impact of different Sowing Dates and Cultivars on Yield and Economics of Blackgram during rabi in North Western Plateau Zone of Odisha. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 15(8a): 157-160.'),(7267,'164','Economic viability of Rice (Oryza sativa L) varieties to different Levels of Nitrogen under Wetland Rice Cultivation of Mizoram','Om Prakash, Santosh Kumar and Rohit Shukla ','Economic-viability-of-Rice-(Oryza-sativa-L)-varieties-to-different-Levels-of-Nitrogen-under-Wetland-Rice-Cultivation-of-Mizoram-SANTOSH-KUMAR-27.pdf','',1,'On the subject of the economic sustainability of rice (Oryza sativa L) types to various levels of nitrogen under wetland rice agriculture, a field experiment was carried out in Champhai in 2019 and 2020. With \'CO-52\' at 80 kg N/ha, plant height and dry matter output were at their maximum. Panicles/m2, full grains/panicle, production of grain and straw (4.50 tons/ha), as well as the uptake of nitrogen by grain and straw, were all noticeably greater with \"CO-52\". Rising nitrogen levels increased the number of panicles/m2, the number of filled grains per panicle, the yield of grains and straw, and the amount of nitrogen taken up by grains and straw only up to 80 kg N/ha. The maximum grain production and economics were observed with \"CO-52\" at 80 kg N/ha, and it was discovered to be the ideal combination for wetland rice agriculture. Varieties and nitrogen levels interacted considerably.','Rice, Split dose, WRC, LAI, Panicle, yield','The study\'s conclusions showed that the variety \"CO-52\" with a 75 kg N/ha treatment was ideal for rice grown in wetland conditions since it promoted wetland rice development, increased productivity, and boosted profitability. Among the three different varieties CO-52, CAU-R1 and \"Gomati\"—with the three different nitrogen concentrations, namely 25, 50, 75, and 100 kg/ha.','-','Om Prakash, Santosh Kumar and Rohit Shukla (2023). Economic viability of Rice (Oryza sativa L) varieties to different Levels of Nitrogen under Wetland Rice Cultivation of Mizoram. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 15(8a): 161-163.'),(7268,'164','Extent of Mental Preparedness of Tamil Nadu farmers in Marketing their Produce during Future Lockdowns','Rajapandi P., Ravi Kumar Theodore, Suresh Kumar D., Balasubramaniam P. and Patil Santosh Ganapati','Extent-of-Mental-Preparedness-of-Tamil-Nadu-farmers-in-Marketing-their-Produce-during-Future-Lockdowns-Rajapandi--28.pdf','',1,'This study was conducted to assess the extent of mental preparedness of farmers in marketing their produce during future lockdowns. The research focused on three horticultural crops viz., tomato, banana, and jasmine, which were most affected during the Covid-19 lockdown period. The study was conducted in three districts of Tamil Nadu viz., Krishnagiri, Erode, and Madurai, based on their highest area under the respective crops. A total of 240 farmers were surveyed using proportionate random sampling method. The findings revealed that in the case of physical function, majority of the tomato growers expressed that their intention will be to utilize more family labour and less outside labour during future lockdowns. Banana growers also showed a similar response. Jasmine farmers were mentally prepared to process their produce for sale if processing facilities will be available. Regarding the exchange function, majority (62.50%) of the banana farmers expressed their willingness to sell their produce to Farmer Producer Organizations (FPOs). In terms of the facilitative function, majority of banana (52.50%) and jasmine (53.75%) farmers intended to use Non-Banking Financial Institutions (NBFIs) for availing loan facilities if interest rates were lower during future lockdowns. Banana and Jasmine farmers expressed their willingness to seek assistance from Krishi Vigyan Kendras (KVKs), Non-Governmental Organizations (NGOs), and FPOs. However, a smaller proportion of farmers expressed their willingness to use Kisan Call Centre (KCC) and market intelligence provided by the Domestic and Export Market Intelligence Cell (DEMIC) of Tamil Nadu Agricultural University (TNAU). The study highlights the importance of family labour, processing facilities, and alternative marketing channels such as marketing through FPOs by farmers during future lockdowns. It also underscores the need to promote KCC and DEMIC services to improve farmers\' access to market information. These findings can guide policymakers and extension functionaries in implementing strategies to enhance the resilience of farmers\' marketing behaviour in the face of potential future pandemics and lockdowns.','Preparedness, Marketing, Future Lockdown, Horticultural Crops, Covid-19','The Covid-19 pandemic had a significant impact on agricultural operations and supply chains worldwide, including India. Lockdowns and movement restrictions disrupted the marketing of agricultural produce and posed various challenges for farmers. The results of this study indicated that the tomato and banana farmers were mentally prepared to rely more on family labour and reduce outside labour during future lockdowns. Farmers also expressed readiness to utilize processing and cold storage facilities if available during future lockdowns and to sell their produce to FPOs. Banana and Jasmine Farmers showed interest in seeking assistance from Krishi Vigyan Kendras (KVKs), NGOs, and FPOs during future lockdowns. However, the willingness to utilize KCC and market intelligence provided by DEMIC by farmers was low during future lockdowns, which indicated the need for more promotional efforts to popularize them among the farmers. Policy makers and extension functionaries should focus on enhancing farmers\' access to KCC, market intelligence by DEMIC, and financial institutions to improve their preparedness and resilience in the face of future lockdowns or similar crises.','-','Rajapandi P., Ravi Kumar Theodore, Suresh Kumar D., Balasubramaniam P. and Patil Santosh Ganapati (2023). Extent of Mental Preparedness of Tamil Nadu farmers in Marketing their Produce during Future Lockdowns. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 15(8a): 164-167.'),(7269,'164','Effect of Gamma Irradiation on Post-harvest Shelf life and Quality of Aggregatum Onion (Allium cepa L. var. aggregatum Don.)','K.R. Krishna Kumar, P. Irene Vethamoni, A. Senthil and H. Usha Nandhini Devi ','Effect-of-Gamma-Irradiation-on-Post-harvest-Shelf-life-and-Quality-of-Aggregatum-Onion-(Allium-cepa-L.-var.-aggregatum-Don.)-P-Irene-Vethamoni-29.pdf','',1,'The shelf life of aggregatum onion need to be increased in order to open export opportunities worldwide. To extend the shelf life, research was started with selection of CO4 variety and treated with gamma irradiation of different dosages (0 Gy, 10 Gy, 50 Gy, 100 Gy, 150 Gy and 200 Gy) and stored at room conditions. At monthly interval evaluation, it shown significant difference (p<0.05) in physiological and biochemical parameters with respect to different doses. After 4 months of storage, it was cleared that treatment of 100 Gy showed less moisture loss, physiological weight loss with high marketable yield and total sugars followed by 150 Gy with less rotting loss and high sulphur content at the end of the storage. However, Marketable bulb (%) determines the profitability of exporting, it is concluded that treatment of 100 Gy extends the shelf life of onion bulbs with less losses and high marketable bulb %. So, this would extend shelf life of onion bulb without disturbing its qualities and its pungency for which its well-known. As it was easy to irradiate tons of bulbs in this advanced world, we hope this would benefit both farmers and consumers.','Irradiation, small onions, storage, sprout inhibition, qualities','It is well known that the gamma irradiation extends shelf life by controlling the sprouting and rotting without affecting its nutritional value. Basically, it controls sprout in onion by inhibiting the synthesis of endogenous growth promoting hormones. In this study, onion bulbs treated with different dosages of gamma irradiation reveals that the gamma irradiation of 100 Gy shows less moisture loss, physiological weight loss with high marketable yield and total sugars followed by 150 Gy which shows less rotting loss with high sulphur content. Ascorbic acid content which is sensitive to radiation is lesser in irradiated bulbs than the unirradiated bulbs and the protein content was moreover similar in all bulbs at the end of the storage period. From these results, it was confirmed that the Gamma irradiation of 100 Gy should be the best treatment to extend shelf life of onion than the other treatments up to 4 months under ambient conditions with high marketable bulb and minor biochemical changes which does not affect its nutritional qualities.','-','K.R. Krishna Kumar, P. Irene Vethamoni, A. Senthil and H. Usha Nandhini Devi (2023). Effect of Gamma Irradiation on Post-harvest Shelf life and Quality of Aggregatum Onion (Allium cepa L. var. aggregatum Don.). Biological Forum – An International Journal, 15(8a): 168-176.'),(7270,'164','Study on Effectiveness and efficiency of different Doses of Gamma-rays in Sesame','Madhuri Pradhan and Amitava Paul ','Study-on-Effectiveness-and-efficiency-of-different-Doses-of-Gamma-rays-in-Sesame-MADHURI-PRADHAN-30.pdf','',1,'Sesame is a valuable oilseed crop with several uses. The most important prerequisites for increasing seed yield are the presence of genetic variation within a particular crop population. A well-known method for increasing genetic variety is mutagenesis. Mutagenic effectiveness and efficiency of gamma rays were investigated in the two sesame (Sesamum indicum) genotypes (Rama and Tillotoma). The irradiated seeds were subjected to tests to determine their lethal dosage (LD50), which was defined as the level at which 50% of the seeds germinated. The mutagenic effectiveness and efficiency was calculated in M2 generation based on biological damage like lethality or survival %estimated in M1 generation. With an increase in mutagen dosage, mutagenic efficacy and efficiency increased. It was cleared from the result that 400Gy was most efficient in inducing mutation in both the genotypes of sesame.','Mutagen, Effectiveness, Efficiency, Gamma rays, Sesamum indicum','The current study evaluated the manner in which the sesame varieties Rama and Tillotoma responded to mutagenesis effectiveness and efficiency. Among the different doses of gamma rays, 400 Gy was most effective in mutagenicity in both the genotypes. The effectiveness and efficiency of the mutagens were found to be increasing with an increase in the mutagen dose. The high dose of treatment recorded the maximum biological damage. Therefore, optimum dose is recommended. The selection of the optimum mutagenic doses for future works can be made by the determination of mutational frequency, effectiveness, and efficiency. Optimum doses of mutagen have been utilised in creation of variation and crop improvement programmes.','-','Madhuri Pradhan and Amitava Paul (2023). Study on Effectiveness and efficiency of different Doses of Gamma-rays in Sesame. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 15(8a): 177-179.'),(7271,'164','Value Addition in Dragon fruit and Evaluation of the Products (Hylocereus costaricensis)\r\n','Archana R., C. Indu Rani, P. Geetha, G. Amuthaselvi, I. Muthuvel and R. Neelavathi ','Value-Addition-in-Dragon-fruit-and-Evaluation-of-the-Products-Archana-R-31.pdf','',1,'Dragon fruit is an exotic fruit, rich in nutritional value and bioactive compounds. The fruits are low in calories and high in antioxidant and vitamin C. Processed products of dragon fruit offer value by diversifying food choices, reducing waste, and promoting economic growth while retaining nutritional benefits. The present experiment entitled “Value addition in dragon fruit and evaluation of the products (Hylocereus costaricensis)” was conducted during the year 2022-2023 in Tamil Nadu Agricultural University, Coimbatore. The study was about preparation of various value-added products such as jam, jelly, jujube, squash, RTS, cookies and ice-cream by using dragon fruit pulp and powder. After preparation, the value-added products were evaluated for various physico-chemical parameters such as TSS, pH, acidity, vitamin C, total sugars, reducing sugars and betalain compounds. On the basis of sensory evaluation, it was concluded that dragon fruit jam was found to be the best of all products as it recorded the higher sensory score of 8.6 in terms of overall acceptability.','Dragon fruit, value added products, physico-chemical parameters, colour values, organoleptic evaluation','Dragon fruit is rich in nutritional and medicinal properties, brings numerous benefits to human health. All the parts of the dragon fruit namely, pulp, peel, flowers and stem contain bioactive compounds such as betalains, flavonoids, tannins, alkaloids beneficial in biological activities in humans such as antioxidant, antimicrobial and anticancer properties. In this study, jam, jelly, jujube, squash, RTS, cookies and ice- cream were prepared using dragon fruit pulp and powder. On the basis of the result, dragon fruit jam scored higher sensory rating and also recorded high betalains (12.1 mg/100g), acidity (0.48%), ascorbic acid (2.64mg/100g), total sugars (68.8%) and reducing sugars (29.70%) among all the products.','-','Archana R., C. Indu Rani, P. Geetha, G. Amuthaselvi, I. Muthuvel and R. Neelavathi (2023). Value Addition in Dragon fruit and Evaluation of the Products (Hylocereus costaricensis) . Biological Forum – An International Journal, 15(8a): 180-186.'),(7272,'164','Genetic variability Studies in Advanced inbred Population of Tomato (Solanum lycopersicum L.)',' Shubha A.S., Lingaiah H.B., Fakrudin B., Suresha Jayappa Gouda, Mohan Kumar S., Jyothi Kattegoudar and Hanchinamani C.N. ','Genetic-variability-Studies-in-Advanced-inbred-Population-of-Tomato-(Solanum-lycopersicum-L.)-Shubha-AS-32.pdf','',1,'The current study was designed to assess variances between genotypes and within genotypes, estimate genetic parameters, and identify promising genotypes for future utilization from the pooled population of the cross 16P2 × Kashi Hemanth in tomato (Solanum lycopersicum L.). The evaluation was done in the farmers\' field at Kanaykanahalli village, Belurtaluq, Hassan district during 2020-2022. Analysis was done for 29 ABLs along with five checks in RBD design. Traits such as plant height, number of branches, number of fruits per plant, average fruit weight, yield per plant, fruit length, fruit width, number of locules, pericarp thickness, TSS, firmness, and lycopene exhibited high heritability and genetic advance as per cent mean. These findings put forward the contribution of additive gene effects to the heritability of these parameters, suggesting significant potential for improvement through selection. ','Tomato, Genetic variability, GCV, PCV, Heritability, Genetic advance, ABLs','The ratio between genotypic coefficient of variation (GCV) and phenotypic coefficient of variation (PCV) exhibited minimal variations implying that environmental factors had limited influence on the expression of most traits. Traits such as plant height, number of branches, number of fruits per plant, average fruit weight, yield per plant, fruit length, fruit width, number of locules, pericarp thickness, TSS, firmness, and lycopene exhibited high heritability and genetic advance as per cent mean, suggesting significant potential for improvement through selection.','-','Shubha A.S., Lingaiah H.B., Fakrudin B., Suresha Jayappa Gouda, Mohan Kumar S., Jyothi Kattegoudar and Hanchinamani C.N. (2023). Genetic variability Studies in Advanced inbred Population of Tomato (Solanum lycopersicum L.). Biological Forum – An International Journal, 15(8a): 187-189.'),(7273,'164','Estimation of Heterosis and inbreeding Depression for Yield, and its components Traits in rice (Oryza sativa L.)','Rohit Kumar, S.S. Rao, Anjali Manhar, Deepak Gauraha and Sanjay Sharma ','Estimation-of-Heterosis-and-inbreeding-Depression-for-Yield,-and-its-components-Traits-in-rice-(Oryza-sativa-L.)-Rohit-Kumar-33.pdf','',1,'The present study entitled was carried out at Research cum-Instructional Farm, Department of Genetics and Plant Breeding, College of Agriculture, IGKV, Raipur Chhattisgarh, India during kharif 2021-22. The experimental material comprised of five generations each cross of pair parents i.e. P1, P2, F1, F2 and F3 of nine different crosses were conducted in Randomized Complete Block Design (RCBD) with three replications during kharif 2022, reprehensively, were used to estimation of heterosis and inbreeding depression for yield and its components traits in rice (Oryza sativa L.). Heterosis of hybrids over mid parent and better parent varied from cross to cross and character to character. IR64 × Vasumati showed the highest heterosis for yield per plant. Among the various hybrids exhibiting desirable value of heterosis, PKVHMT × Tarori Basmati, IR64 × Pusa1121 and MTU1010 x Pusa1121 were top performers for grain yield per plant and negative inbreeding depression for days to fifty per cent flowering showed that hybrid of this crosses flowered earlier than their parents. In case of plant height IR64 × Vasmati, MTU1010 × Pusa1121 and MTU1010 × Tarori Basmati showed significant negative heterosis which indicated the possibility of superior segregating lines for dwarf type.','Heterosis, Inbreeding depression, Rice','The findings of present study indicated that majority of the hybrids recorded high heterosis for grain yield per plant. Among the various hybrids exhibiting desirable value of heterosis, PKVHMT × Tarori Basmati, IR64 × Pusa1121 and MTU1010 × Pusa1121 were top performers for grain yield per plant. The hybrid, IR-64 × Vasumati recorded highest heterosis for yield per plant, and was among the best two performers for traits, 100 grain weight and number of grains per panicle. When yield and yield attributing traits were considered IR-64 × Vasumati was the best cross combination. Significant inbreeding depression was recorded for yield and yield attributing traits.','-','Rohit Kumar, S.S. Rao, Anjali Manhar, Deepak Gauraha and Sanjay Sharma (2023). Estimation of Heterosis and inbreeding Depression for Yield, and its components Traits in rice (Oryza sativa L.). Biological Forum – An International Journal, 15(8a): 190-196.'),(7274,'164','Molecular Diagnostics of Pathogen, Status and Management of Newly Emerging False Smut Disease of Rice in different Geographic Areas of North Karnataka','Gururaj Sunkad, Shivamurthy P., Pramesh Devanna and Kasi Rao Mediga ','Molecular-Diagnostics-of-Pathogen,-Status-and-Management-of-Newly-Emerging-False-Smut-Disease-of-Rice-in-different-Geographic-Areas-of-North-Karnataka-Gururaj-Sunkad-34.pdf','',1,'Rice false smut is an important emerging biotic stress caused by the fungus Ustilaginoidea virens. Occurrence and distribution of rice false smut disease had been documented from diverse agro-climatic zones of Karnataka are still scanty. In this study, comprehensive surveys, molecular diagnostics and management of disease were carried out to know the disease status, identity of pathogen and best fungicide for the management of the disease. The survey for the disease was carried out during Kharif 2019 and 2020 in different parts of North Karnataka. The cultural and morphological characters of the pathogen were studied by using different media. The molecular characterization of the pathogen was carried out by using universal ITS primers. The field evaluation of fungicides during Kharif 2019 and 2020, followed by large-scale demonstrations and farm trials in farmer’s fields was conducted during Kharif 2021 for identification of best fungicide molecule. The results indicated the disease severity varied among different parts of north Karnataka. Potato sucrose agar (PSA) medium found to be superior for ideal growth of pathogen among different media tested. The fungus grows as acute angle branching, smooth and good mycelial growth with dark brown coloured and globular shaped chlamydospores. The DNA of U. virens was successfully amplified with universal ITS1 and ITS4 primers as well as specific uvr-F and uvr-R primers and the band size obtained was 700 bp and 350 bp, respectively. New combi fungicide molecule Trifloxystrobin 25% + Tebuconazole 50% WG @ 0.4 g/lit was very effective for the management of disease by recording lesser disease incidence and higher yields along with BC ratio in farm and large-scale demonstration trials.','Characterization, False smut, Management, Rice, Severity','In the present study, the incidence of false smut varied from season to season as well as location to location. Potato sucrose agar was found ideal for growth and development of pathogen under in vitro. The pathogen was identified and characterized as U. virens based on morphological characters as well as at molecular level by using both universal and specific primers. On the basis of performance in field and farm as well as large scale demonstration trials, Trifloxystrobin (25%) + Tebuconazole (50%) 75% WG @ 0.4 g/lit was found highly effective in the management of false smut and has found a place in the university package of practices for the benefit of farmers of the region. Now, the fungicide molecule has become very popular among farmers for the management of false smut. ','-','Gururaj Sunkad, Shivamurthy P., Pramesh Devanna and Kasi Rao Mediga (2023). Molecular Diagnostics of Pathogen, Status and Management of Newly Emerging False Smut Disease of Rice in different Geographic Areas of North Karnataka. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 15(8a): 197-202.'),(7275,'164','Geospatial Approach to Chickpea Yield Estimation: DSSAT-CROPGRO Calibration in Bundelkhand, Uttar Pradesh','Kancheti Mrunalini, Sellaperumal Pazhanivelan, Narendra Kumar, Ragunath Kaliaperumal, S.P. Ramanathan, N. Sritharan and A. Ragul ','Geospatial-Approach-to-Chickpea-Yield-Estimation-DSSAT-CROPGRO-Calibration-in-Bundelkhand,-Uttar-Pradesh-Mrunalini-Kancheti-35.pdf','',1,'In this research, the DSSAT model was utilized to simulate the growth, development, and yield of crops by effectively capturing the interactions between soil, plants, atmospheric conditions, and agricultural practices. Ensuring the timely and accurate prediction of crop yields proves pivotal for effective agricultural land management and the formulation of informed policy decisions. The study focused on estimating the spatial yield of chickpeas in seven districts of the Bundelkhand region in Uttar Pradesh using the DSSAT model. Genetic coefficients for different chickpea cultivars were evaluated during rabi, 2021–22 and were subsequently validated using crop data of 2022-23. The accuracy of the model\'s yield predictions was confirmed through comparison with observed yields obtained from crop cutting experiments conducted in farmers\' fields. Statistical evaluations revealed excellent performance, with calibration yielding an R2, NRMSE, d and MAPE of 0.942, 0.107, 0.89, & 10.2 and with the validation phase also showed strong results, with values of 0.923, 0.149, 0.827, & 13.9 respectively. \r\nThe versatility of the DSSAT model and its crop simulation capabilities have led to its widespread application across various contexts. With successful calibration and validation for chickpea yields at a spatial level, the model is now well-positioned for further geospatial applications in the realm of natural resource management.\r\n','CCE, Chickpea, CROPGRO, DSSAT, Spatial yield','The effectiveness of the DSSAT model in predicting chickpea yield has been established, signifying its utility as a valuable predictive tool. The incorporation of the CROPGRO module allows for spatial yield simulations under varying conditions of soil, weather, and management practices, thereby enhancing chickpea production prospects. In essence, the model\'s proficiency in rainfed environments is evident as the study area Bundelkhand region of Uttar Pradesh falls under rainfed zone. ','-','Kancheti Mrunalini, Sellaperumal Pazhanivelan, Narendra Kumar, Ragunath Kaliaperumal, S.P. Ramanathan, N. Sritharan and A. Ragul (2023). Geospatial Approach to Chickpea Yield Estimation: DSSAT-CROPGRO Calibration in Bundelkhand, Uttar Pradesh. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 15(8a): 203-208.'),(7276,'164','Plant-Derived Bio-Fungicides: A Promising Tool for the Control of Soft Rot of Ginger (Zingiber officinale Rosc.)','S. Nazir Basha, K. Venkatesan, P. Irene Vethamoni, R. Kannan and B. Anita ','Plant-Derived-Bio-Fungicides-A-Promising--Tool-for-the-Control-of-Soft-Rot-of-Ginger-(Zingiber-officinale-Rosc.)-S-Nazir-Basaha-36-6515.pdf','',1,'Ginger is a major spice in India which also has many medicinal properties. It is affected by various biotic and abiotic stress among them soft rot is a major disease caused by fungi. It causes about 70-90 per cent of crop loss if unchecked, even though many synthetic fungicides are available for control of the disease keeping the degradation of the environment due to excess use of chemicals, The present study had been taken up to identify some eco-friendly alternatives to synthetic fungicides has been screened. This study was carried out with different plant extracts viz., Pimento dioca, Murraya koenigii, Adathoda visica, Piper longum, and Zingiber officinalis. The results showed that the highest anti-fungal (Fusarium sps & Pythium sps) activity was recorded in Allspice (87.84 %&84.31%) followed by Curry leaf, Long-pepper, Adathoda, and Ginger. Quantitative studies are carried out for the analysis of phenols and anti-oxidant activity which was recorded highest in allspice (143.88 % and 87.52 %) among the all-plant extracts. This study concluded that the allspice plant extract had the potential to control this fungal disease.','Ginger (Zingiber officinale Rosc.), Quantitative Studies, Secondary metabolites, DPPH, Phenols, Anti-oxidant and Antifungal','The extracts are screened for phytochemicals which showed the presence of phenols, flavonoids, terpenoids, saponins, tannins, and alkaloids. Quantitative studies are carried out for the analysis of phenols and anti-oxidant activity the plant extracts are rich in phenols and anti-oxidant activity showed significant antifungal activity against Pythium aphanedermatum and Fusarium solani. Due to the richness of bioactive compounds in the five botanical extracts, they can be used as a source of substances with the antifungal potential of low toxicity for the management of soft rot disease in Ginger. For future control of disease organically or through IPM these are the best alternatives.','-','S. Nazir Basha, K. Venkatesan, P. Irene Vethamoni, R. Kannan and B. Anita (2023). Plant-Derived Bio-Fungicides: A Promising Tool for the Control of Soft Rot of Ginger (Zingiber officinale Rosc.). Biological Forum – An International Journal, 15(8a): 209-215.'),(7277,'148','A Study on Input Suppliers to the Mushroom Industry in Odisha','Surya Sidhant Rath, Sarba Narayan Mishra and Khitish Kumar Sarangi ','A-Study-on-Input-Suppliers-to-the-Mushroom-Industry-in-Odisha-Surya-Sidhant-Rath-109.pdf','',1,'Mushroom farming promotes nutritional security, boost livelihoods, and empower rural women and the unemployed. For every production activity, input supply is one of the key components upon which the entire production set up is based. The activity of mushroom production is also based on the availability of the specific substrate and the mushroom spawn. A substance that allows the growth and establishment of mushroom mycelium is known as a mushroom substrate. In commercial mushroom cultivation, spores are collected and the resulting mycelium is propagated on sterile cereal grain (wheat) to produce a product called spawn. There has been little study regarding inputs for mushroom production. An attempt is herein made to study about the input suppliers to the mushroom industry. Since the mushroom production is highest in the state of Odisha, it was purposively selected for the study. The respondents were selected from four major mushroom producing districts i.e., Puri, Khurda, Ganjam and Dhenkanal. Forty spawn producers and twenty straw producers were taken for the study. The major actors of paddy straw value chain are rice farmer, producer, trader and user. The majority of the paddy straw is marketed in channel I (paddy growing farmer trader mushroom farmer) followed by channel II (paddy growing farmer mushroom farmer). The production cost of one kilogram of paddy straw which is equivalent to two bundles of paddy straw comes around Rs 4.22. Channel II which markets comparatively less paddy straw provides paddy straw at a lesser rate of twenty five paisa as compared to channel I while the farmers margin is also more in channel II. The margin of trader is ninety five paisa in channel I. The total cost of mushroom spawn production per month as observed is Rs. 202343. The actual spawn production is 18559 bottles and the net return comes around Rs. 40473. The BC ratio becomes 1.35. The cost of production per bottle is around eleven rupees. The major constraints in varying degree of severity are high cost of wheat grain, scarcity of skilled manpower, infection and contamination of spawn. All efforts are to be made to increase the quality mushrooms spawn production for the benefit of the mushroom growers.','Mushroom, Spawn, Paddy, Straw and Constraints','As it is evident from the above study that the particular substrate and spawn are essential for the mushroom cultivation, it is necessary to provide good quality spawn and appropriate paddy straw substrate for qualitative and adequate mushroom production. Skill based training, appropriate storage, market awareness and market linkage are necessary for upgrading of paddy straw value chain in the state. The mushrooms spawn producers have limited presence in study districts, as a result the supply of spawn is less than the desired. All efforts are to be made to increase the quality mushrooms spawn production for the benefit of the mushroom growers. Wheat may be provided to the spawn producers at subsidised rate. Technical know-how to be given to spawn producers to check spawn infection. There is an urgent need of infrastructural support, financial support, technical support, and extension support for improvement in mushroom value chain.','-','Surya Sidhant Rath, Sarba Narayan Mishra and Khitish Kumar Sarangi (2023). A Study on Input Suppliers to the Mushroom Industry in Odisha. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 15(1): 678-684.'),(7278,'164','Evaluation of Gerbera Cultivars for Yield and Quality under Various Growing Conditions','Raveena, Arvind Malik, Vikas Kumar Sharma, Divya and Monika Yadav','Evaluation-of-Gerbera-Cultivars-for-Yield-and-Quality-under-Various-Growing-Conditions-Raveena-37.pdf','',1,'Four gerbera cultivars, Szogun, Salsa, Kormoran, and Feliks, were tested to see how well they performed in terms of production and floral quality under different cultivating environments (polyhouse, insect proof net house, shade net house and open field). The present investigation was carried out during 2019-20 at the Department of Horticulture, CCS Haryana Agricultural University, Hisar. In Haryana, gerbera cultivation, like any other agricultural activity influenced by various factors that impact the growth and yield of the plants. There are many excellent varieties of gerbera with magnificent flowers in exhaustive range of colours, different shades, size and wide range of keeping quality. It is very much necessary to evaluate gerbera cultivars under different growing conditions. There were notable differences in yield and floral quality traits between the cultivars examined. With the exception of the number of flowers at fortnightly intervals, the interacting values of growth conditions and cultivars were determined to be non-significant. In flowering parameters, minimum number of days taken for bud initation to harvest (32.15 days), maximum stalk diameter (6.99 cm), flower disc diameter (2.37 cm), number of ray floret per flower (62.33), number of flowers (8.7) and length of ray floret (5.15 cm) was reported from the plants grown under polyhouse. Szogun outperformed than other varieties in terms of days from bud opening to harvest, stalk diameter, quantity of flowers, and ray floret length, while Feliks had the longest ray florets.','Gerbera jamesonii, Growing Conditions, Varieties, Yield and Quality, Ray Florets','From the present investigation, it has been concluded that the variety Szogun performed better with respect to all flowering parameters as compared to other varieties viz. Kormoran, Salsa and Feliks. However, no of ray florets per flower were recorded in variety Salsa and disc diameter was maximum in variety Feliks. All the flowering was found best in polyhouse condition followed byinsect proof net house and open field condition. ','-','Raveena, Arvind Malik, Vikas Kumar Sharma, Divya and Monika Yadav (2023). Evaluation of Gerbera Cultivars for Yield and Quality under various Growing Conditions. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 15(8a): 216-220.'),(7279,'164','Seasonal incidence of Cassava mealybug Phenacoccus manihoti (Matile-Ferrero) on Cassava Manihot esculenta','Nitya Sree G.R., Saminathan V.R., Saravanan P.A., Jeyarajan Nelson S., Murugan M. and Vellaikumar S. ','Seasonal-incidence-of-Cassava-mealybug-Phenacoccus-manihoti-(Matile-Ferrero)-on-Cassava-Manihot-esculenta-Saminathan-VR-38.pdf','',1,'The influence of weather parameters on the incidence of cassava mealybug Phenacoccus manihoti (Matile-Ferrero) was studied in 2023 on five different cassava varieties in Tamil Nadu, India. A random survey was conducted where pest damage and pest incidence were correlated with weather parameters like maximum temperature, minimum temperature, and rainfall. Peak activity of mealybug and its damage was recorded on the 16th SMW (0.87) and on the 18th SMW (1.24) respectively. Tapioca variety Mulluvadi was susceptible and Yethapur 2 was resistant to cassava mealybug. Weather parameters contributed 71 per cent variation (R2 = 0.71) in the total mean population and 72 per cent variation (R2 = 0.72) in total mean damage. In Mulluvadi variety, mealybug population had a positive correlation with temperature (r=0.69) and a negative correlation with relative humidity (r=0.74). Mealybug damage was positively correlated with minimum temperature (r=0.80) in cassava variety Sree Raksha.','Phenacoccus manihoti, Cassava, seasonal incidence, damage, correlation','The Cassava mealybug P. manihoti population was high during the summer season. Maximum temperature was positively correlated and humidity was negatively correlated with mealybug incidence. Therefore, it can be established that high temperature favors a high population of mealybug whereas, rainfall and relative humidity reduce the incidence of pest. Mulluvadi variety which was one of the highly preferred varieties by farmers harboured a high incidence of mealybug. So, resistant varieties, timely sowing, and proper irrigation must be taken into consideration before planting cassava. ','-','Nitya Sree G.R., Saminathan V.R., Saravanan P.A., Jeyarajan Nelson S., Murugan M. and Vellaikumar S. (2023). Seasonal incidence of Cassava mealybug Phenacoccus manihoti (Matile-Ferrero) on Cassava Manihot esculenta. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 15(8a): 221-226.'),(7280,'164','Influence of Secondary Host tree on Growth, Heartwood Initiation and Oil content of Twelve Year-old of Sandalwood Plantations at Eastern dry zone of Karnataka, in Peninsular India','Venkatesh L., Dattappa, Maheshnaik B.L. and Ganesha B.H. ','Influence-of-Secondary-Host-tree-on-Growth,-Heartwood-Initiation-and-Oil-content-of-Twelve-Year-old-of-Sandalwood-Plantations-at-Eastern-dry-zone-of-Karnataka,-in-Peninsular-India-Dattappa-39.pdf','',1,'This study investigates the influence of different secondary hosts on sandalwood in Eastern dry zone of Karnataka\'s Chikkballapur and Kolar Districts in peninsular India. It assesses how sandalwood\'s growth, heartwood development, and oil production are linked to secondary hosts. Focusing on twelve-year-old trees in Chikkballapur, the clear bole height of sandalwood showed notable increases when associated with hosts like Sesbania grandiflora and Casuarina equisetifolia (1.86 m). Notably, sandalwood trees with Emblica officinalis as hosts displayed elevated heartwood content (23.05%) and the highest heartwood oil concentration (2.16%). Stem volume was highest under the host of Sesbania grandiflora (7.57 dm³). Studying a thirteen-year-old sandalwood trees in Kolar district, those linked with Morus alba hosts exhibited the tallest clear bole height (2.54 m) and the greatest stem volume (22.93 dm³). In terms of heartwood composition, sandalwood trees associated with Emblica officinalis showcased high percentages (43.32%). Additionally, sandalwood trees with Emblica officinalis as hosts exhibited a notably high oil content (3.40%), while those with Moringa oleifera hosts had the lowest oil content (0.44%). In conclusion, this research underscores the significant impact of secondary hosts on sandalwood\'s growth, heartwood development, and oil production. The findings offer valuable insights for the cultivation and management of sandalwood, ultimately enhancing its economic and cultural importance. The effect of secondary hosts on sandalwood heartwood, and oil content formation was less explored. With the analogy of the study concluded with formation of heartwood and oil content was highly correlated with effect from secondary hosts. ','Semi-root parasite, Sandalwood, heartwood, oil content and clear bole height','This research examines how various secondary hosts affect sandalwood in Karnataka, India. The study evaluates sandalwood\'s growth, heartwood, and oil in relation to secondary hosts. Focusing on twelve-year-old trees in Chikkballapur, sandalwood\'s clear bole height increased notably with Sesbania grandiflora and Casuarina equisetifolia (1.86 m), akin to other hosts. Emblica officinalis had high heartwood (23.05%). In heartwood oil, Emblica officinalis showed the highest (2.16%), Investigating thirteen-year-olds in Kolar, Morus alba had highest clear bole (2.54 m) and also it had most stem volume (22.93 dm³),The sandal having the host of Emblica officinalis had high oil (3.40%), hence the oil and heart wood content of the sandal is mainly depending on the host tree. The research highlights secondary hosts\' impact on sandalwood\'s growth, heartwood, oil, offering insights for cultivation and management, enhancing its economic and cultural value.','-','Venkatesh L., Dattappa, Maheshnaik B.L. and Ganesha B.H. (2023). Influence of Secondary Host tree on Growth, Heartwood Initiation and Oil content of Twelve Year-old of Sandalwood Plantations at Eastern dry zone of Karnataka, in Peninsular India. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 15(8a): 227-232.'),(7281,'164','Biological Control of Callosobruchus maculatus (F.) in Stored Pigeonpea Cajanus cajan (L.)\r\n','Dhruv Singh, D.V. Singh, Gaje Singh, Hem Singh and Gopal Singh','Biological-Control-of-Callosobruchus-maculatus-(F.)-in-Stored-Pigeonpea--D.V.-Singh-40.pdf','',1,'Pigeonpea, Cajanus cajan, (L.) is a vital legume in the Indian subcontinent, not just in terms of production but also providing nutrient security to a large chunk of population, the pulse however faces issues related to frequent and prominent pest attacks, one such issue is the attack of C. maculatus on the pulses in fields and storehouses leading to tremendous losses in the amount of grain produced as well as monetary losses incurred in grain production and storage. There are methodologies available to address the insect attack in pigeonpea by the use of chemicals, aimed at reducing pest damage but at cost of health hazards and other problems. However, use of biocontrol agents for pest management is an approach that is novel but with scarcity in research material. This study aimed to investigate the parasitoids of C. maculatus available in storehouses for its biological control. Both larval parasites viz., Dinarmus basalis and Triaspis sp. parasitized the grubs of C. maculatus as ecto and endo parasites. In the whole sample, 14.74 per cent mortality of C. maculatus was noted by the 22.83 parasites. Dinarmus basalis and Triaspis sp. parasitized 13.25 and 1.49 per cent mortality of C. maculatus, respectively which is in a very little extent of parasitization to control the bruchids in store.','Pigeonpea, Callosobruchus maculatus, Biological control, Parasitoids, Dinarmus basalis','In summary of the current laboratory experiment, the findings underscore the remarkable capacity of the parasitoid Dinarmus basalis and Triaspis sp. to exert a substantial suppressive impact on the bruchid population. It is noteworthy that the prevalence of the parasitoid within storehouses remained notably limited. This observation accentuates the potential for significantly enhanced pest management outcomes through the augmentation of the parasitoid population within storage facilities. The implications of this study reveal a pivotal avenue for future research and application. \r\nBy fostering an increase in the parasitoid population, the prospects for a markedly improved and highly efficient strategy for bruchid pest management within storage contexts become evident. Consequently, there arises a critical imperative to establish standardized mass production techniques tailored to the expansion of the parasitoids population on a substantial scale. Such standardization holds the promise of enabling widespread release in storage facilities, thereby ushering in a paradigm shift in the effective control of the pulse beetle menace. In closing, this research underscores the substantial potential for advancing integrated pest management through the strategic augmentation of the parasitoid Dinarmus basalis population. \r\n','-','Dhruv Singh, D.V. Singh, Gaje Singh, Hem Singh and Gopal Singh (2023). Biological Control of Callosobruchus maculatus (F.) in Stored Pigeonpea Cajanus cajan (L.). Biological Forum – An International Journal, 15(8a): 233-237.'),(7282,'164','A Comparative Study on Wet and Dry extracts of Caralluma fimbriata for Phytochemicals and Evaluation of Therapeutic activity','Vyshali V.M., Ravikumar Patil H.S., Basavanna M., Shivakumara P., Sumalatha K.R., Sushmitha S. and Maruthi K.R.','A-Comparative-Study-on-Wet-and-Dry-extracts-of-Caralluma-fimbriata-for-Phytochemicals-and-Evaluation-of-Therapeutic-activity-Ravikumar-Patil-HS-41.pdf','',1,'To compare the phytochemicals and evaluate the antioxidant, antidiabetic and antimicrobial activity of different extracts (petroleum ether, ethanol and aqueous) of dry and wet samples of Caralluma fimbriata (C. fimbriata) is proposed. Phytochemicals are screened in all the extracts by standard methods and total alkaloids, flavonoids, phenols and tannins are quantified by High-Performance Liquid Chromatography (HPLC). The elemental profiling and proximate analysis are carried out to determine the nutritive value of C. fimbriata. Further the evaluation of antioxidant activities by 2, 2-diphenyl-picrylhydrazyl (DPPH), 2, 2-azino-bis-3-ethylenebenzothiozoline-6-sulfonic acid (ABTS) radical scavenging activity, Ferric Reducing Ability of Plasma (FRAP), Super Oxide Dismutase (SOD) assay and antidiabetic activity by α-amylase and α glucosidase inhibition are performed. The antimicrobial activity of the extracts is determined in vitro by MIC (minimum inhibition Concentration). Results revealed that the phytochemical components tested are present in varying concentrations in all the extracts corresponding to differences in their antioxidant, free radical scavenging activities, antidiabetic and antimicrobial activities with high nutritive value. Therefore, one can conclude that there is a significant correlation between the phytochemicals and activities exhibited by C. fimbriata.\r\nThe comparative study on wet and dry extracts of Caralluma fimbriata for phytochemicals and therapeutic activity evaluation face challenges related to maintaining consistent extraction conditions between wet and dry methods, ensuring accurate quantification of phytochemical compounds, and establishing relevant and reliable therapeutic activity assays. Additionally, variability in the composition of plant material due to environmental factors and batch-to-batch variations could introduce complexity to the study.\r\nThe challenges of the study include controlling for variability in plant material, optimizing extraction methods for both wet and dry extracts, and establishing reliable methods for phytochemical analysis and therapeutic activity evaluation.\r\n','Nutritive value, Caralluma fimbriata, Antioxidants, Antimicrobial, α-amylase','The utilization of natural compounds and their structural equivalents has a significant impact on the field of pharmacology, particularly in the treatment of cancer and infectious diseases. However, the discovery and development of natural products as drugs have been hindered by various challenges, such as the technical difficulties involved in screening, isolating, characterizing, and optimization. These challenges prompted the pharmaceutical industry to largely abandon the search for natural products after the 1990s. Fortunately, recent advancements in technology and scientific understanding have provided new avenues to overcome these obstacles. As a result, there is a renewed focus on studying C. fimbriata, which holds promise as both a potential drug lead and a functional food. These advancements in technology and science have opened up new possibilities for harnessing the therapeutic potential of natural compounds, revitalizing the search for novel drug candidates derived from natural sources. The study\'s findings suggested that that both the wet and dry extracts of C. fimbriata can potentially play a substantial, advantageous role in providing a healthy and balanced diet as they are abundant in phytochemicals with antioxidants and antidiabetic properties and with respect to variances in their antidiabetic, antimicrobial, antioxidant, and free radical scavenging capabilities. These natural bioactive phytochemicals work in tandem with diet to protect against a number of diseases. \r\nAnother important prospect regarding C. fimbriata is that more scientific study is needed in the fields of agronomy, breeding, postharvest handling, value addition, and connecting farmers to markets.\r\nThe study\'s contributions include a comprehensive analysis of phytochemical profiles in both wet and dry Caralluma fimbriata extracts, along with an evaluation of their therapeutic potential, shedding light on the optimal extraction method and potential applications of the plant for various health benefits.\r\nThe study provides valuable insights into the differences in phytochemical composition and therapeutic potential between wet and dry extracts of Caralluma fimbriata, contributing to a better understanding of the optimal extraction method for harnessing its bioactive compounds and guiding potential applications in healthcare and pharmaceutical industries.\r\n','-','Vyshali V.M., Ravikumar Patil H.S., Basavanna M., Shivakumara P., Sumalatha K.R., Sushmitha S. and Maruthi K.R. (2023). A Comparative Study on Wet and Dry extracts of Caralluma fimbriata for Phytochemicals and Evaluation of Therapeutic activity. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 15(8a): 238-251.'),(7283,'164','Effect of Bio-enhancers on Growth and Yield of Palak (Beta vulgaris var. bengalensis) under Shade Net conditions','Akansha Shrivastava, Nivedita Singh, Satyam Patel and Animesh Ghosh ','Effect-of-Bio-enhancers-on-Growth-and-Yield-of-Palak-(Beta-vulgaris-var.-bengalensis)-under-Shade-Net-conditions-Akansha-Shrivastava-42.pdf','',1,'An experiment was carried out at School of Agriculture, ITM university, Gwalior, Madhya Pradesh, India, during February, 2023, to investigate how various bio-enhancers impact the growth and yield of palak var. Arka Anupama under shade net conditions. The study followed a completely randomized design with eight treatments and three replications. The treatments were labeled as T1= Panchgavya 100%, T2= Jeevamrita 100 %, T3= Jeevamrita (Saptdhaan) 100 %, T4=Panchgavya 50%+ Jeevamrita 50%, T5=Panchgavya 50% + Jeevamrita (Saptdhaan) 50%, T6=Panchgavya 34% + Jeevamrita 33%+ Jeevamrita (Saptdhaan)33%, T7= RDF 100 % andT8=Control. The soil was sandy loam and having 7.7 pH and 6.2 g kg-1 organic carbon According to the experiment\'s results, treatment T6 exhibited the most favorable outcomes, with the highest plant height, the highest number of leaves per plant, the longest leaf length, and the longest root length at the time of harvest. Additionally, treatment T6 showed the highest yield per plant and yield per bag at the time of harvest. On the other hand, treatment T8 had the lowest yield per plant and yield per bag among all the treatments. Consequently, an increasing multitude of farmers are embracing the transition to organic farming. In this context, the identification of novel organic fertilizers that are both cost-effective and environmentally benign assumes paramount significance. As of our current understanding, comprehensive insights into the utilization of organic fertilizers to ameliorate the nutritional quotient of Palak remain conspicuously absent. Thus, the present endeavor hypothesized that the integration of organic inputs would fortify growth and yield characteristics of Palak. In light of this, the current study was undertaken to discern the influence of bio-enhancers, namely panchagavya, jeevamrita, and jeevamrita (saptdhaan), growth attributes, and yield of Palak (Beta vulgaris var. bengalensis) cultivation.','Bio-enhancers, jeevamrita, panchagavya, saptdhaan, jeopardy, ameliorate, organic fertilizer','In conclusion, this study delved into the Impact of Bioenhancers on the growth and yield of palak (Beta vulgaris var. bengalensis) under shade net conditions. The findings result collectively underscore the remarkable potential of bioenhancers in bolstering palak cultivation. Notably, they contribute to enhanced growth, nutrient levels, soil vitality, and microbial activity. Among the treatments, T6, characterized by the combination of Panchagavya (3%), Jeevamrita (5%), and Jeevamrita (Saptdhaan) (5%) emerged as particularly effective, positive outcomes in plant yield and development. These findings accentuate the significance of bioenhancers and offer valuable direction towards harnessing them for sustainable agricultural practices. By leveraging bioenhancers, agricultural productivity can be improved, and soil management can be enhanced.','-','Akansha Shrivastava, Nivedita Singh, Satyam Patel and Animesh Ghosh (2023). Effect of Bio-enhancers on Growth and Yield of Palak (Beta vulgaris var. bengalensis) under Shade Net conditions. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 15(8a): 252-256.'),(7284,'163','Effect of Herbicidal Weed Management Strategies on Weed Dynamics and Yield of Lentil','Shruti Priya, Shashank Tyagi, Birendra Kumar, Ramesh Nath Gupta, Pallavi Shekhar, Monika Raj and Sunidhi Kumari ','Effect-of-Herbicidal-Weed-Management-Strategies-on-Weed-Dynamics-and-Yield-of-Lentil-Ramesh-Nath-Gupta-68.pdf','',1,'Lentil is an important Rabi pulse crops of India. Weeds are unwanted plants and adversely affected the yield of lentil. Keeping the view of seriousness of weeds a field experiment was conducted to evaluate weed management strategies on weed dynamics and yield of lentil during the Rabi season 2021-22 at Research area, Bihar Agricultural University, Sabour, Bhagalpur, India. The experiment was comprised with ten weed management practices carried out in randomized block design. Lentil variety HUL 57 was sown and herbicides applied at pre and post emergence. Lentil crop was infested with diverse types of weed flora and dominated with Vicia sativa, Vicia hirsuta, Chenopodium album, Anagallis arvensis, Solanum nigrum, Cynodon dactylon, Dactyloctenium aegyptium, Phalaris minor and Cyperus rotundus. Weed density, weed dry weight of grassy, broad leaf weeds as well as total weeds were recorded lowest value in weed management practice with metolachlor (50% EC) @ 1.0 kg a.i. ha-1 pre emergence followed by one hand weeding at 25 days after sowing. Minimum weed index, maximum weed control efficiency, highest number of branches plant-1, number of pod plant-1, number of seeds pod-1, test weight, maximum grain yield (1.62 t ha-1) and haulm yield (2.54 t ha-1) were observed by metolachlor (50% EC) @ 1.0 kg a.i. ha-1 pre emergence followed by one hand weeding at 25 days after sowing. However, all weed management strategies showed more grain and haulm yield as compared to weedy check.','Lentil, weed index, herbicide, weed control efficiency, yield','Weed management strategies by metolachlor (50% EC) and one hand weeding after 25 DAS was found better in term of growth yield 38 % higher yield and weed control. Afterward hand weeding at 20 DAS, metolachlor @ 1.0 kg a.i. ha-1 PE followed by @ 0.05 kg a.i. ha-1 PoE and pendimethalin @ 960 g a.i. ha-1 PE followed by the imazethapyr @ 40 g a.i. ha-1 PoE also found to be better in terms of suppression of different weeds in lentil. However, all weed management practices in lentil was found effective in reducing weed population, weed growth and better yield than weedy check in lentil crop.','-','Shruti Priya, Shashank Tyagi, Birendra Kumar, Ramesh Nath Gupta, Pallavi Shekhar, Monika Raj and Sunidhi Kumari (2023). Effect of Herbicidal Weed Management Strategies on Weed Dynamics and Yield of Lentil. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 15(5a): 428-433.'),(7285,'164','Detection of Squalene compound in Ganoderma lucidum through thin-layer Chromatography (TLC)','B. Sangeetha, A.S. Krishnamoorthy, P. Renukadevi, V.G. Malathi and D. Jeya Sundra Sharmila','Detection-of-Squalene-compound-in-Ganoderma-lucidum-through-thin-layer-Chromatography-(TLC)-B-Sangeetha-43.pdf','',1,'Thin-layer chromatography is a simple, inexpensive, easy, and reliable method widely used for detection of various toxins present in food and plant materials in Plant Pathology. Thin layer chromatography can also be used to identify the nature of different plant compounds: anti-oxidative, antibacterial, or antifungal. In this study, we have used this method to detect the antiviral compounds in the Ganoderma lucidum. Ganoderma lucidum, one of the medicinal mushrooms, has antiviral properties against the groundnut bud necrosis virus infecting tomatoes. The antiviral compound squalene has already been reported. Hence, the presence of squalene in different extracts of G. lucidum, viz., secondary metabolites, mycelial extracts, and basidiocarp extract, was analysed by the thin layer chromatography (TLC) method. The results of red brick colour formation and refractive index in the different extracts of G. lucidum have confirmed the presence of squalene. Analysing the costs of the various techniques, TLC emerged as the most affordable method for sample analysis. TLC is the most convenient and economical method for finding compounds in various microorganisms.','Ganoderma lucidum, Squalene, Thin-layer chromatography (TLC)','Various chromatographic methods were used for the analysis of secondary metabolites and compounds from the samples. Apart from all, thin-layer chromatography is an easy and cost-effective, and conventional method widely used to find the aflatoxins and various toxins from food products. The presence of an antiviral compound viz., squalene from different extracts of G. lucidum was easily confirmed by this TLC method.','-','B. Sangeetha, A.S. Krishnamoorthy, P. Renukadevi, V.G. Malathi and D. Jeya Sundra Sharmila (2023). Detection of Squalene compound in Ganoderma lucidum through thin-layer Chromatography (TLC). Biological Forum – An International Journal, 15(8a): 257-261.'),(7286,'164','Evaluation of Bed Disinfectants on Economic Traits of Multivoltine Hybrid Mulberry Silkworm [NISTARI × (SK6×SK7)], in Kishanganj District, Bihar','Shriya Singh, Kalmesh Managanvi, S.N. Ray and Erayya','Evaluation-of-Bed-Disinfectants-on-Economic-Traits-of-Multivoltine-Hybrid-Mulberry-Silkworm-[NISTARI-(SK6 SK7)]-in-Kishanganj-District,-Bihar-Kalmesh-M-44.pdf','',1,'The experiment was conducted to study the impact of four bed disinfectants on mulberry silkworm multivoltine hybrid mulberry silkworm [NISTARI × (SK6×SK7)] reared on C2038 variety in Kishanganj district of Bihar. Mulberry silkworm treated with bed disinfectant Labex@ 5g/sq. ft. ½ an hour before feeding showed significantly higher result in terms of single cocoon weight ((1.56 g), single shell weight (0.62 g), SR percentage (39.74 %), filament length (790.67 m), NBFL (790.67 m), denier (2.54), raw silk filament weight (0.23 g), renditta (4.57), in comparison to Vijetha, Sericillin and Amla powder while lower values were recorded in control batch. ','Bed disinfectants, multivoltine, post cocoon parameters','The success of sericulture industry depends upon several factors of which the impact of the environmental factors such as biotic and abiotic factors is of vital importance (Gautam et al., 2022). Among the abiotic factors, temperature plays a major role on growth and productivity of silkworm, as it is a poikilothermic (cold blooded) insect Benchamin and Jolly (1986). Mulberry silkworm treated with bed disinfectant Labex @ 5g/sq. ft. ½ an hour before feeding showed significantly higher result in terms of single cocoon weight, single shell weight, SR percentage, filament length, NBFL, denier, raw silk filament weight, renditta in comparison to Vijetha, Sericillin and Amla. So, it is recommended to follow the disinfection by Labex for better post cocoon parameters in Bihar and eastern part of India. ','-','Shriya Singh, Kalmesh Managanvi, S.N. Ray and Erayya (2023). Evaluation of Bed Disinfectants on Economic Traits of Multivoltine Hybrid Mulberry Silkworm [NISTARI × (SK6×SK7)], in Kishanganj District, Bihar. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 15(8a): 262-266.'),(7287,'164','Genetic variability, heritability and genetic advance studies in commercial varieties of garden pea (Pisum sativum var. hortense L.) grown under mid-hill condition of Himachal Pradesh','Lekh Raj, Sandeep Kumar, Ritika Singh, Deependra Yadav and Ravinder ','Genetic-variability,-heritability-and-genetic-advance-studies-in-commercial-varieties-of-garden-pea-(Pisum-sativum-var.-hortense-L.)-grown-under-mid-hill-condition-of-Himachal-Pradesh-Lekh-Raj-45.pdf','',1,'A field experiment was conducted on ten varieties of garden pea to determine genetic variability, heritability, and genetic advance as a percent of mean using fourteen quantitative characters. viz., count emergence of seed per plot, days to 50% flowering, days to first picking, number of flowers per plant, pod length, seeds per pod, shelling percentage, number of pickings, plant height (cm), pod setting (%), pod yield per plant (g), Pod yield per plot (kg) and pod yield per ha (q). The result of ANOVA showed significant differences among the varieties. In comparison to the corresponding genotypic coefficient of variation (GCV), the phenotypic coefficient of variation (PCV) was quite higher. High value of GCV and PCV was recorded for count plant emergence per plot (%), number of pods per plant, number of flowers per plant, pod yield per plant (g), pod yield per ha (q) and pod yield per plot (kg). All the characters except days to first picking and pod setting showed a high magnitude of heritability in the broad sense (>60%) ranging from 98.48 (count plant emergence) to 74.11 (number of pickings). Further, high heritability coupled with high genetic advance as percentage of mean (>20%) was observed for count plant emergence per plot (%), number of pods per plant, number of flowers per plant, number of pickings, pod yield per plant (g), pod yield per ha (q) and pod yield per plot (kg) suggesting that these garden pea characters are genetically controlled by additive (heritable) gene action and can be utilized for garden pea improvement through selection. The varieties that showed superior results for the objectives under study were Goldie, New- Zealand, Azad P-3 and Maxima-3636 and can be exploited for further breeding programmes of garden pea.','GCV, Heritability, PCV, Pod yield, Variability','The current study founded substantial variation among all varieties, with significant differences in all studied characters. The traits that exhibited high values for GCV, heritability, and genetic advance as a percentage of the mean were count of plant emergence per plot (%), number of pods per plant, number of flowers per plant, pod yield per plant (g), plot (kg), and hectare (q). Therefore, when selecting for higher yield in garden peas, it is important to consider these characteristics. The largely capable varieties that showed high values for these characteristics during the study were Goldie, New-Zealand, and Maxima-3636. These better-quality varieties can be selected and used to develop higher-yielding crops.','-','Lekh Raj, Sandeep Kumar, Ritika Singh, Deependra Yadav and Ravinder (2023). Genetic variability, heritability and genetic advance studies in commercial varieties of garden pea (Pisum sativum var. hortense L.) grown under mid-hill condition of Himachal Pradesh. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 15(8a): 267-272.'),(7288,'92','Yield potential of Pigeonpea varieties under System of Pigeonpea Intensification (SPI) ','S.B. Agrawal, Shani Gulaiya, Priya Kochale and Ashish Kumar','Yield potential of Pigeonpea varieties under System of Pigeonpea Intensification (SPI) -Shani-Gulaiya-114.pdf','',1,'A field experiment was conducted at Krishi Vigyan Kendra, JNKVV, Jabalpur for two consecutive years of 2016 and 2017 during Kharif seasons. Treatments consisted of Seven pigeon pea varieties having different maturity periods viz. V1 (TJT-501) V2 (ASHA), V3 (DURGA), V4 (ICPL 88039), V5 (UPA5 120), V6 (Manak) and V7 (JKM 189) were tested in a randomized block design replicate thrice. Pigeon pea varieties were sown 8th and 10th June 2016 and 2017 respectively in a black poly bags. Thirty days old seedlings were transplanted on 10th and 12th July 2016 and 2017 respectively. Result of study reveal that variety TJT 501 attended the significantly higher plant height (192.8 cm) with girth of 3.10 cm. and bears a primary (13.6/plant and recorder branches (30.1/plant) closely followed by ASHA. These two varieties proved significantly superior over rest of varieties. As regards to the nodules the highest counts of nodules on per plant were recorded (45/plant) closely followed 40.33/plant under TJT 501 and ASHA respectively. The top ranking varieties TJT 501 recorded significantly higher number of pods/plant (376.6) and 4.03 seeds per pod; the mark variety recorded the lowest count of pods 202.7/plant and 3.26 seeds/pod. The seed and stalk yields of 2173.88 and 6813.48 kg ha-1, respectively were recorded under TJT-501 closely followed by ASHA (2062.64 and 6462.50 kg/ha) and JKM 189 (2033.62 and 6493.20 kg/ha) seed and stack yields, respectively. The top yielded variety TJT 501 fetched net returns of Rs. 94606 with highest (3.28) cost benefit ratio.','System of pigeonpea intensification (SPI), transplanting, yield potential, root nodule and seedling','From the above findings is may be concluded that the verity TJT 501 proved superior with respect to growth and yields and fetched net returns of Rs. 94606/ha with B:C ratio of 3.28 under system of pigeon pea intensification (SPI). ','-','S.B. Agrawal, Shani Gulaiya, Priya Kochale and Ashish Kumar (2021). Yield potential of Pigeonpea varieties under System of Pigeonpea Intensification (SPI). Biological Forum – An International Journal, 13(1): 790-792.'),(7289,'148','Evaluation of Fungicide compatibility with a Co-culture of Trichoderma spp. under in vitro Conditions','A.G. Panda, B. Boblina, M.K. Mishra, A.K. Senapati, D. Datta and B. Jena ','Evaluation-of-Fungicide-compatibility-with-a-Co-culture-of-Trichoderma-spp.-under-in-vitro-Conditions-110.pdf','',1,'For agriculture to be sustainable, soil-borne plant diseases must be effectively controlled. The compatibility of two native Trichoderma spp. strains (TAKJR and THPUR) with six fungicides to combat Rhizoctonia solani is examined in this study. We assessed the inhibitory effects of fungicides at doses between 100 PPM and 1500 PPM. Hexaconazole mildly inhibited TAKJR (46.7%), according to the results, but at 1500 PPM, the inhibition dramatically increased to 93.3%. At 1500 PPM, Difenoconazole demonstrated substantial (95.6%) inhibition of TAKJR. At 1500 PPM, Tebuconazole showed moderate inhibition, rising to 90.6%. At 100 PPM, inhibition by Propineb increased to 48.6% at 1500 PPM. Moderate inhibition was seen with Propiconazole. Pencycuron, the most suitable fungicide, showed little inhibition at 1500 PPM (11.9%). Hexaconazole and Difenoconazole had excellent inhibitions at 1500 PPM (96.7% and 95.6%, respectively), while THPUR demonstrated similar responses. The inhibition of Tebuconazole ranged from 40.8% to 90.6%. Pencycuron and Propineb demonstrated negligible inhibitory effects. The study shows that fungicides have inhibitory effects on Trichoderma spp. in a dose-dependent manner. Their inclusion in an integrated disease control schedule is suggested by their compatibility with particular fungicides, most notably Pencycuron.','Trichoderma, Fungicide compatibility, Pencycuron','According to the compatibility test, various fungicides, including Hexaconazole and Difenoconazole, significantly inhibited Trichoderma at all doses examined. Propineb and Pencycuron, on the other hand, showed no inhibition even at greater doses, indicating compatibility with Trichoderma. Tebuconazole and propiconazole showed only modest inhibition, with higher doses having a greater effect. When developing sustainable plant disease control techniques, the information from this research study emphasizes the need of carefully considering how fungicides affect beneficial organisms like Trichoderma. Although Hexaconazole and Difenoconazole have strong antifungal properties, they may also have a negative impact on populations of Trichoderma. Tebuconazole, Propineb, and Pencycuron, on the other hand, show increased compatibility with Trichoderma, making them suitable candidates for integrated pest management programs meant to take use of this helpful fungus\' biocontrol capabilities. In the end, our findings offer insightful information for fungicide-Trichoderma combination optimization, providing efficient disease control while safeguarding the critical ecological functions of Trichoderma in agricultural settings. \r\nMoving forward, these findings present a promising avenue for advancing sustainable plant disease management. The study\'s emphasis on understanding fungicide effects on beneficial organisms like Trichoderma underscores the importance of incorporating compatibility assessments into agricultural practices. Further investigation into the mechanisms underlying the variable inhibition patterns, as well as field validation of the compatibility of Tebuconazole, Propineb, and Pencycuron with Trichoderma, can refine integrated pest management strategies. This research sets the stage for optimizing fungicide-Trichoderma combinations to achieve effective disease control while upholding pivotal ecological roles of Trichoderma within agricultural ecosystems.\r\n','-','A.G. Panda, B. Boblina, M.K. Mishra, A.K. Senapati, D. Datta and B. Jena (2023). Evaluation of Fungicide compatibility with a Co-culture of Trichoderma spp. under in vitro Conditions. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 15(1): 685-688.'),(7290,'164','Prospecting of Bacterial Endophytes Imparting Salinity Stress Tolerance and Plant Growth Promotion in Tomato (Solanum lycopersicum)','Tasmiya Imtiyaz and Earanna N. ','Prospecting-of-Bacterial-Endophytes-Imparting-Salinity-Stress-Tolerance-and-Plant-Growth-Promotion-in-Tomato-(Solanum-lycopersicum)-Tasmiya-Imtiyaz-46.pdf','',1,'Salinity is a severe abiotic factor that harms plant growth and productivity. In recent years, it has been clear that there are microorganisms (fungi and bacteria) that could coexist symbiotically with plants and provide tolerance to abiotic stress. In the current investigation, 58 bacterial endophytes that were isolated from the cold deserts of the Himalayas were in-vitro tested for salinity resistance using different concentrations of NaCl. Nine of the 58 isolates demonstrated tolerance to salinity up to 2.0 M NaCl. After further investigation, it was discovered that the isolates could fix solubilize substances such phosphate, HCN, NH3, siderophore, proline, IAA, gibberellic acid, abscisic acid, and salicylic acid. Additionally, pre-germinated seeds of Tomato (var. Arka Saurabh) seedlings were tested using a standardization of NaCl (117mM) in paper towel. in which two endophytes (NBE 20 and NBE 23) significantly increased seedling length compared to uninoculated seeds. The endophytes were identified as Enterobacter cloacae and Enterobacter asburiae by 16S rRNA gene sequence. In greenhouse studies, inoculation with Enterobacter asburiae significantly increased the plant growth attributes at 4 dS m-1 NaCl, followed by Enterobacter cloacae in comparison to control plants. Hence, the present study manifests theses isolate as the potent bacterial endophytes in imparting salt tolerance and growth promotion in Tomato.','Bacterial endophytes, NaCl, Tomato (var. Arka saurabh), Enterobacter cloacae, Enterobacter asburiae','Therefore, presence of inoculated bacterial endophytes within inoculated plants were confirmed through re-isolation. Hence, this study suggests the inoculation of endophytes is necessary to confer salinity tolerance. Furthermore, it can be conferred that out of two bacterial endophytes, Enterobacter asburiae collected from harsh condition presented superior salinity tolerance to tomato plant under salt stress and these findings can be explored in other agricultural crops.','-','Tasmiya Imtiyaz and Earanna N. (2023). Prospecting of Bacterial Endophytes Imparting Salinity Stress Tolerance and Plant Growth Promotion in Tomato (Solanum lycopersicum). Biological Forum – An International Journal, 15(8a): 273-284.'),(7291,'164','Vision based Rice Genotype Identification using Machine Learning Techniques','Chandrika G., Juliet Hepziba S., Arumugam Pillai M., Kavitha Pushpam A. and Vijayalakshmi R. ','Vision-based-Rice-Genotype-Identification-using-Machine-Learning-Techniques-CHANDRIKA-G-47.pdf','',1,'Images of ten rice genotypes consisting of Chithrakar, Kuliyadichan, TRY 4, ADT 53, ACK 14090, ACK 15004, ADT 45, ASD 19, IR 64, Bhavani were selected and subjected to various image processing machine learning tools for vision based classification. Using Grain analyzer, morphological features of rice seed such as length, breadth, thickness, geometric mean diameter, sphericity, surface area, weight and area were estimated. The mean data were subjected to PCA analysis in STAR software to reduce the dimensionality. The trait such as length, surface area, geometric mean diameter, area and weight contributed significant variation as they possessed positive values in both PC1 and PC2. The predicted variables of PCA and visual, textural, spectral characteristics of rice seed image obtained from Image Analyser (LEICA) were subjected to various image processing process. The processed images were fed into the machine tools viz., Partial Least Square Regression (PLS) and Support Vector Machine (SVM) for vision based classification. Totally 2000 images were taken and 80 percent images were used for training the model, 20 percent images were kept for testing the model. By comparing accuracy, precision, recall and F1 score of both the methods, PLS gives better performance than the SVM classifier. By using these classifiers, genotypes could be identified based on morphological features, visual characteristics and textural characteristics, as the accuracy and prediction are reliable.','Rice seeds, Principal Component Analysis, Machine learning tools, Partial Least Square Regression, Support Vector Machine classifier','Ten rice genotypes used in this study were classified efficiently by using machine learning techniques. By comparing accuracy, precision, recall and F1 score of both the methods, PLS gives better performance than the SVM classifier. Traits such as length, surface area, geometric mean diameter, area and weight were the highly contributing trait for presence of variation among the genotypes. By using these classifiers, genotypes could be identified based on morphological features, visual characteristics and textural characteristics, as the accuracy and prediction are reliable. Thus, Machine learning tools is an alternative approach to identify the varietal purity based on seed morphological features and images.','-','Chandrika G., Juliet Hepziba S., Arumugam Pillai M., Kavitha Pushpam A. and Vijayalakshmi R. (2023). Vision based Rice Genotype Identification using Machine Learning Techniques. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 15(8a): 285-291.'),(7292,'164','Design and Analysis of a Hydraulic Cylinder for a Soil Cone Penetrometer using Finite Element Analysis','Abhishek Patel, Vishal Bector, Manjeet Singh and Apoorv Prakash','Design-and-Analysis-of-a-Hydraulic-Cylinder-for-a-Soil-Cone-Penetrometer-using-Finite-Element-Analysis-Abhishek-Patel-48.pdf','',1,'This research paper presents a comprehensive study on the development of a CAD model and the analysis of a hydraulic cylinder for a soil cone penetrometer using Finite Element Analysis (FEA). The primary objective was to design and optimize the different components of the tractor-operated penetrometer to ensure accurate measurement of soil compaction while ensuring the reliability of the components. Selection of different components with strength and reliability is difficult in short time. Cone index measurements were taken at three different locations: Punjab (Ludhiana), Madhya Pradesh (Bhopal), and Maharashtra (Akola), resulting in values of 3793 kPa, 4042 kPa, and 5324 kPa, respectively. Hydraulic flow and design calculations were conducted at a standard insertion speed of 30 mm/s, and the maximum force observed was 3225 N. The cylinder diameter was determined to be 63 mm, with oil flow of 5.61 l/min in the extracting condition and 7.48 l/min in the retracting stroke at the insertion speed. Therefore, structural analysis was done to determine the stress analysis using finite element method. Finite Element Analysis (FEA) was employed to evaluate the structural integrity and performance of the penetrometer prior to fabrication. The FEA analysis was conducted on the cylinder tube at a pressure of 15 MPa, and the results showed total deformation, equivalent von Mises stress, and Factor of Safety to be 0.023 mm, 170.9 MPa, and 1.45, respectively. Overall, the research highlights the successful selection and analysis of the hydraulic cylinder for the soil cone penetrometer, providing valuable insights into its performance and reliability in accurately measuring soil compaction and withstand the double load.','Cone Penetrometer, Cone Index, Hydraulic Cylinder, ANSYS, Finite Element Analysis','Soil cone index measurement was done at three different locations of India by the digital cone penetrometer and found the 5324 kPa and 3225 N force and considered for the design calculation of different components. Theoretical and CAD model of soil cone penetrometer was done with the finite element approach for the selection of material, thickness and mitigate with the standard components as per considering the factor of safety. Forward speed or insertion speed of hydraulic cylinder was 30 mm.s-1 with the cylinder diameter of 63 mm, oil flow in forward speed was 5.61 l.min-1 and in return stroke was 7.48 l.min-1. For the analysis of cylinder tube with steel material, the maximum and minimum total deformation was (0.023 & 0.0246 mm), equivalent stress was (125.45 & 170.9 MPa) and FOS was (1.45 & 15). All the critical components were designed and selected after the finite element analysis and will work with the reliability. After getting the result the components can be fabricated and for the actual development of tractor operated soil cone penetrometer.','-','Abhishek Patel, Vishal Bector, Manjeet Singh and Apoorv Prakash (2023). Design and Analysis of a Hydraulic Cylinder for a Soil Cone Penetrometer using Finite Element Analysis. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 15(8a): 292-299.'),(7293,'164','Characterization and Identification of Recent Rice varieties through Chemo Taxonomical Test','N. Aarthi, V. Alex Albert, K. Sujatha, K. Thangaraj and B.R. Renuka ','Characterization-and-Identification-of-Recent-Rice-varieties-through-Chemo-Taxonomical-Test-N-Aarthi-49.pdf','',1,'The restricted genetic basis of the major rice varieties has resulted in a decrease in physical variation among them, necessitating the creation of efficient and reliable varietal identification tests, especially for the individuals who oversee and certify the quality of seeds. Ten rice varieties were tested for eleven different chemical tests such as phenol test, modified Phenol test, NaOH test, FeSO4 test, KOH test, gelatinization temperature test, aroma test, GA3 test, 2,4-D test, kinetin test, potassium iodide test. Based on how different genotypes\' colour reactions affected the seed\'s ability to discriminate between the ten paddy varieties. Each of the eleven chemical tests separated the seed variety into two to six classes based on their responses. Even though no one test was able to characterize any specific variety, the eleven chemical tests together were able to distinguish each of the ten different varieties of rice. Thus, these chemical tests were straight forward, fast, and consistent and it might be used to distinguish between several rice cultivars.','Chemical test, colour change, growth hormone, rice, varietal identification','The findings concluded that individual chemical tests have limited utility and these tests may distinguish any number of varieties when performed in a complimentary sequence or in combination. In order to identify the rice crop varieties, these straightforward, quick, and reliable tests are of great utility. The study also showed that, these tests might be used to accurately determine the purity of the rice variety for regular testing.','-','N. Aarthi, V. Alex Albert, K. Sujatha, K. Thangaraj and B.R. Renuka (2023). Characterization and Identification of Recent Rice varieties through Chemo Taxonomical Test. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 15(8a): 300-306.'),(7294,'163','Morpho-physiological and Pathogenic variability among Alternaria lini and A. linicola causing Seedling and Leaf Blight of Linseed','Sujata Kumari, Srinivasaraghavan A., R.B.P. Nirala, Ramesh Nath Gupta and Kalmesh Managanvi','Morpho-physiological-and-Pathogenic-variability-Among-Alternaria-lini-and-A.-linicola-causing-Seedling-and-Leaf-Blight-of-Linseed-Ramesh-Nath-Gupta-69.pdf','',1,'A total of 19 isolates including four Alternaria linicola and 15 Alternaria lini collected from different agro-ecological zones of Bihar were studied for morpho-physiological and pathogenic variability. In A. linicola, colony colour was found to be greyish-black to grey-white with smooth colony margin. The maximum spore size was found in ALC-2 (40.2-44.6 × 9.5-10µm) with up to 9-12 horizontal and 3-4 vertical septation. Days taken to sporulation was found maximum in ALC-1 (14 days) and minimum in ALC-4 (10days). Similarly, colony colour in A. lini was white or whitish grey to greyish black with smooth margin. Maximum spore size was found in ALN-14 (21.4-23.6 X 12.3-12.9µm) with a septation of 5-7 × 2-3. Days taken to sporulation was found maximum in ALN-1, 6 & 15 (16 days) and minimum in ALN-3 & 12 (11days). Maximum growth on potato dextrose agar (PDA) was achieved after two weeks of incubation. The mean mycelial dry weight of six isolates measured at different temperature conditions revealed that 25 °C was the most favorable condition for mycelium production (57.2mg). Among the different isolates, ALN 15 (44.2mg) was found to be performing better at all temperatures. Interestingly, the A. linicola isolates performed better at lower temperatures (15 °C). Similarly, the Relative Humidity (RH) of 90 per cent was found better for all the isolates tested except ALN-4 where maximum radial growth (37.3) was found at 80 per cent RH. The Detached leaf technique was found useful in differentiating the isolates and may be employed for screening of germplasm. Among the different isolates, ALN-4 isolated from lower leaves from the oil seed field of BAU farm was found more aggressive than other isolates. ','Alternaria lini, A. linicola, seedling blight, Linseed, Detached leaf assay','The present investigation has revealed considerable variability among both Alternaria lini and Alternaria linicola causing seedling blight and leaf blight respectively. Considering the level of variability the breeding programme must focus on identification of durable resistance to both the distinct pathogens which often co-exists and incite mutually confusing symptoms. ','-','Sujata Kumari, Srinivasaraghavan A., R.B.P. Nirala, Ramesh Nath Gupta and Kalmesh Managanvi (2023). Morpho-physiological and Pathogenic variability among Alternaria lini and A. linicola causing Seedling and Leaf Blight of Linseed. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 15(8a): 434-440.'),(7295,'164','In-vitro and In-vivo Biocontrol potential of Florescent Pseudomonads against Major Diseases of Tomato','Munni Kumari, Zaya Roshani, Srinivasaraghavan A., Ramesh Nath Gupta, Kalmesh Managanvi and Erayya ','In-vitro-and-In-vivo-Biocontrol-potential-of-Florescent-Pseudomonads-against-Major-Diseases-of-Tomato-Ramesh-Nath-Gupta-50.pdf','',1,'Growing use of chemicals under high value vegetable crops tomato for pest and disease management is one of the prime concerns of food safety. Scientific identification and deployment biocontrol agents are a promising alternative management strategy for sustainable pest and disease management. In this context, characterization native microbial strains will be an important step towards successful biocontrol programme. Five indigenous Fluorescent Pseudomonads (FLPs) were isolated from the rhizosphere of various crops, viz., Rice, Okra, Barley, Brinjal and Chickpea from different locations of Bihar. In-vivo and in-vitro studies were conducted on five isolates namely FLP; Rice, Okra, Barley, Brinjal New, and Chickpea, against Fusarium oxysporum f.sp. lycopersici (FOL) and Alternaria alternata, Alternaria solani, causing wilt, brown spot and early blight respectively. Maximum percent of inhibition in the growth of fungi in dual culture was recorded by FLP Brinjal New (37.64%), FLP Rice (41.78%), and FLP Brinjal New and FLP Barley (37.64%), respectively. Seed bacterization with FLPs using a talc based FLP formulation increased germination percentage, days to 50 per cent germination, and seedling vigour. In the paper towel method of germination testing, FLP Brinjal New bacterized seeds took the least number of days (4 days) to 50 per cent seed germination and maximum germination percent was observed under FLP rice (96.33%). When bacterized seeds were planted in portrays, maximum germination was shown by FLP Brinjal New (95.33) while the least germination was recorded under untreated control and FLP rice (89.33). Maximum shoot length, root length, and seedling length were for bacterized seedlings of FLP Rice, FLP barley, and FLP Rice respectively. Two tomato pathogens, Alternaria solani causing early blight and Fusarium oxysporum f.sp. lycopersici causing wilt, were inoculated on the seedlings of FLP bacterized tomato. The minimum disease index against Alternaria solani was found under FLP Barley (17.96%) and against F. oxysporum f.sp. lycopersici, FLP Rice (44.71%) performed better than the other isolates. Among the seedling challenged with FOL, the earliest seed germination and maximum germination percentage were observed under seed bacterized with FLP Barley. Shoot length, root length, seedling length, and seedling vigor were maximum for FLP Rice bacterized seedlings.','Biocontrol, Florescent Pseudomonad, Fusarium wilt, Seed bacterization, Tomato','The research highlights the potential of native Fluorescent Pseudomonads (FLPs) isolated from diverse crops in Bihar for effective biocontrol of tomato pathogens, Fusarium oxysporum f. sp. lycopersici and Alternaria spp. The study demonstrates the positive impact of FLP seed bacterization on germination, seedling vigor, and disease resistance. These findings underscore the significance of harnessing native microbial strains as a sustainable and promising strategy for managing pests and diseases in high-value vegetable crops like tomato, contributing to improved food safety and agricultural sustainability.','-','Munni Kumari, Zaya Roshani, Srinivasaraghavan A., Ramesh Nath Gupta, Kalmesh Managanvi and Erayya (2023). In-vitro and In-vivo Biocontrol potential of Florescent Pseudomonads against Major Diseases of Tomato. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 15(8a): 307-311.'),(7296,'164','Effect of Nano Selenium Seed Priming on Sorghum Seed germination, Seedling Growth and Bacterial Growth','Dhakshya Senthil, Karthikeyan Subburamu, Janaguiraman Maduraimuthu, Balachandar Dhanjeyan and Ramalakshmi Alaguchevar ','Effect-of-Nano-Selenium-Seed-Priming-on-Sorghum-Seed-germination,-Seedling-Growth-and-Bacterial-Growth-Karthikeyan-Subburamu-51.pdf','',1,'Sorghum is a grain crop that is frequently grown throughout the world\'s dry and semi-arid regions and provides valuable food, feed, and biofuel. However, biotic and abiotic stressors such as drought, salt, pests, and diseases frequently limit sorghum output. Seed priming is a pre-sowing strategy that improves seed germination and seedling growth in stressful environments. Nano selenium (nano-Se) is a kind of selenium that has been found to improve plant growth and stress tolerance. The effect of nano-Se seed priming on sorghum seed germination, seedling growth, and bacterial growth, on the other hand, has not been thoroughly investigated. The goal of this work was to analyse the influence of nano-Se seed priming on these characteristics and to determine the probable mechanisms involved.\r\nNano-selenium has been demonstrated to help agricultural crops grow and resist pests and diseases when used as fertilizers. At low concentrations, both selenium and nano-selenium increase plant growth, antioxidant activity, and stress tolerance, which has sparked an increasing interest in evaluating their potential use in crop production and agro-biotechnologies. Therefore, the effect of nanoparticles on plants and microbes must be quantified before their use in soil. This study aimed to examine the toxicity potential of nano-selenium on the germination of sorghum seed, growth of representative soil bacteria viz., Bacillus subtilis, Pseudomonas aeruginosa, Pseudomonas koreensis. Sorghum seeds K-8 and three representative soil bacterial organisms were soaked in different concentrations of nano-selenium (0, 5, 12.5, 25, 50, 100, 200 mg L-1) for 24 h and then seeds were sown in roll towel to quantify germination potential and seedling growth, whereas the growth and survival of representative soil micro-organisms were also assessed.\r\nIn this study we came to know that nano-selenium is non-toxic up to 100 mg L-1 but above the concentration that is 200 mg L-1 decreased the rate of germination potential. However, the growth of bacterial organism grows well in all graded nano-Se, hence it is considered to non-toxic up to 200 mg L-1\r\nHence, this study concluded that nano-selenium is toxic above 100 mg L-1 for plant growth but non-toxic for representative soil bacterial growth.\r\n','Germination rate, toxicity, nano-selenium concentration','This study demonstrated that nano-selenium at concentrations between 5 and 100 mg L-1 had no effect on bacterial growth or seed germination. Overall nano-selenium activity shows that concentrations between 5 and 100 mg L-1 did not cause any toxicity, but concentrations over 200 mg L-1 had a hazardous effect on the germination of sorghum seeds. Meanwhile nano-selenium up to a concentration of 200 mg L-1 has no effect on representative soil bacterial growth.','-','Dhakshya Senthil, Karthikeyan Subburamu, Janaguiraman Maduraimuthu, Balachandar Dhanjeyan and Ramalakshmi Alaguchevar (2023). Effect of Nano Selenium Seed Priming on Sorghum Seed germination, Seedling Growth, and Bacterial Growth. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 15(8a): 312-316.'),(7297,'164','Toxicological Evaluation of Trema orientalis in Rats with Reference to Histopathology of certain Tissues','Niranjan D., Shridhar N.B., Vinuta M.H., Manjunatha S.S., Sunilchandra U., Pradeep B.S., Manju G.U. and Patel Suresh Revanna ','Toxicological-Evaluation-of-Trema-orientalis-in-Rats-with-Reference-to-Histopathology-of-certain-Tissues-Niranjan-D-52.pdf','',1,'An experimental study was carried out to conduct the safety and toxicological evaluation of the methanolic extract of T. orientalis in Wistar rats through analyzing the histopathological changes observed in vital organs. Repeated dose 28-day oral toxicity study of Methanolic extract of Trema orientalis (METO) was performed in male Wistar albino rats as per the OECD guidelines 407. Twenty-four rats used in the study, were divided into 4 groups, with six in each. Group I served as control, with no medication. METO was administered daily through oral gavaging at dose levels of 250, 500 and 1000 mg/kg for 28 days in group II, III and IV respectively. The experimental rats were apparently healthy throughout the duration of the experiment, without significant changes in rate of body weight gain. After the completion of study all rats were euthanized humanely and during necropsy the external and internal examination of the carcass was done and lesions were recorded. The histopathological examination of the liver, kidneys and heart in the METO treated rats revealed dose-dependent and organ-specific circulatory, degenerative and inflammatory changes. The study concluded that the trematoxin, a glycosidictoxic principle of T. orientalis could be the possible reason for the pulmonary, hepatic and renal damage occurred in the experimental rats and the possibility of toxic potentiality in herbivores might need to be investigated in future.','T. orientalis, Wistar albino rats, Necropsy, Histopathology and Trematoxin','The objective of the current study was to assess the toxicological characteristics of the methanolic extract of aerial parts of T. orientalis plant. Wistar albino rats were used for the safety evaluation of METO by repeated dose 28-day oral toxicity study. Repeated dose 28-day oral toxicity study of methanolic extract of T. orientalis aerial parts was performed in male Wistar albino rats following broader outlines of OECD guideline 407. The experimental rats were divided into four groups (n=6 per group), group I served as control, group II, II and IV rats were administered with METO at doses of 250, 500 and 1000 mg/kg respectively for 28 days. In the experimental rats no notable changes were observed with respect to bodyweight. The maximum tolerable dose of METO in rats was investigated to be more than 2000 mg/kg histopathological examination of the liver, kidneys and heart in the METO treated rats revealed dose-dependent and organ-specific circulatory, degenerative and inflammatory changes. The changes caused by the phytochemicals in the extract were evidenced by very mild to moderate vascular abnormalities, including congestion, haemorrhages, degenerative changes and infiltration of inflammatory cells in vital organs.\r\nTrematoxin found in T. orientalis seeds, might be the possible contributing factor that would have major role in the pulmonary, hepatic and renal damage caused by continuous administration in rats. However, due to various factors such as management, nutrition and environmental conditions, the concentration of the phytoconstituent could be possibly toxic to domestic animals in animal husbandry. The present study concluded that T. orientalis would exhibit analgesic and antioxidant actions from therapeutic point of view, without completely ruling out the possible significant hepatic and pulmonary damages, which would have caused toxicities in goats.\r\n','-','Niranjan D., Shridhar N.B., Vinuta M.H., Manjunatha S.S., Sunilchandra U., Pradeep B.S., Manju G.U. and Patel Suresh Revanna (2023). Toxicological Evaluation of Trema orientalis in Rats with Reference to Histopathology of certain Tissues. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 15(8a): 317-325.'),(7298,'164','Effect of Nano Urea on Growth indices and Grain Yield of Wheat (Triticum aestivum L.) under Southern Rajasthan Conditions','Mahipal Singh Choudhary, S.K. Intodia, M.K. Kaushik, Vinod Saharan, D.P. Singh, S.S. Lakhawat and Manju Choudhary','Effect-of-Nano-Urea-on-Growth-indices-and-Grain-Yield-of-Wheat-(Triticum-aestivum-L.)-under-Southern-Rajasthan-Conditions-Mahipal-Singh-Choudhary-53.pdf','',1,'To improve nutrient use efficiencies, production and productivity nano urea is a critical component. As the major way to supplement nitrogen is with urea. It becomes more difficult to top dress, which also reduces efficiency. Thus, the recent experiment was conducted at the Research Farm, Department of Agronomy, Rajasthan College of Agriculture, Udaipur (Rajasthan) during 2021-22 and 2022-23 at different levels of recommended dose of nitrogen (RDN) for soil application and levels of Nano Urea and Urea for foliar spray were studied. The experiment was laid out in split plot design with three replications and comprised twenty five treatment combinations (five-soil application and five-foliar application). Soil application of 125% RDN was significantly increased plant height at (25, 50, 75 DAS and at harvest), CGR, RGR, Grain yield over soil application of 75% RDN, 50% RDN and control, respectively on pooled basis. However, 125% RDN and 100% RDN were found at par with each other. foliar application of nano urea at 25-30 DAS and 45-50 DAS significantly increased plant height at (50, 75 DAS and at harvest), CGR, RGR, Grain yield as compared to control (water spray), which was at par with foliar application of nano urea at 25-30 DAS, urea at 25-30 DAS and urea at 25-30 DAS and 45-50 DAS.','Wheat, Nano urea, RDN, Foliar spray, Yield','The plant height of wheat was significantly increased with soil application of 125% RDN as compared to other treatments. Maximum crop growth rate was observed with soil application of 100% RDN and maximum relative growth rate at 50-75 DAS was found with soil application of 50% RDN, whereas relative growth rate at 75 DAS-at harvest remained statistically unchanged due to soil application of nitrogen fertilizer.It is concluded that wheat crop should be fertilized with 90 kg nitrogen per hectare and 2.5 ml L-1 nano urea or 4% urea as foliar application at 25-30 and 45-50 days after sowing to get higher growth and yield in prevailing agro-climatic conditions of Zone IVa (Sub-humid Southern Plain and Aravali Hills) of Rajasthan.','-','Mahipal Singh Choudhary, S.K. Intodia, M.K. Kaushik, Vinod Saharan, D.P. Singh, S.S. Lakhawat and Manju Choudhary (2023). Effect of Nano Urea on Growth indices and Grain Yield of Wheat (Triticum aestivum L.) under Southern Rajasthan Conditions. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 15(8a): 326-331.'),(7299,'164','Effect of Plastic Mulches and Botanicals on Growth and Physiological Attributes of Okra\r\n','Sindhu V, Ram Krishna Sarkar, Suprava Biswal, Ankita Debnath and Safal Rai ','Effect-of-Plastic-Mulches-and-Botanicals-on-Growth-and-Physiological-Attributes-of-Okra-Sindhu-V-54.pdf','',1,'Plastic mulches can play an important role in pest control by light reflection repels and additionally the high temperature generated reduces the incidence of diseases. The cultivation of okra by the use of synthetic chemicals which affects the human health as well as the environment. Plant extracts (botanicals) have potentiality to manage the plant pests and diseases which is more efficient, eco-friendly and cost effective as compared to chemicals. A field experiment was conducted at Uttar Banga Krishi Viswavidyalaya, Pundibari, West Bengal, India during summer season of 2021 and 2022 to find out the effect of plastic mulches and botanicals on growth and physiological attributes of okra. The experiment was laid out in Factorial Randomized Complete Block Design (FRCBD) with three replications. There were two factors, in which first factor with four levels of coloured plastic mulches and second factor with five levels of botanicals spray. From the present study, it was found that the treatment comprising of silver plastic mulch along with foliar spray of Azadirachta indica leaf extract (5 %) were found most effective in increasing plant height (117.81 cm) at final harvest, number of branches per plant (4.57), total leaf chlorophyll content (37.99 mg/ 100g) and leaf area index (3.03) over other treatments. It might be recommended for the terai region of West Bengal.','Azadirachta indica, Botanicals, Growth, Plastic mulch, Okra','From the above findings, it is concluded that the treatment comprising of silver plastic mulch along with foliar spray of Azadirachta indica leaf extract (M2B1) found most effective in increasing plant height, number of branches per plant, total leaf chlorophyll content and leaf area index of okra over other treatments. Therefore, the cultivation of okra using silver plastic mulch along with foliar spray of Azadirachta indica leaf extract might be recommended for the terai region of West Bengal.','-','Sindhu V, Ram Krishna Sarkar, Suprava Biswal, Ankita Debnath and Safal Rai (2023). Effect of Plastic Mulches and Botanicals on Growth and Physiological Attributes of Okra. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 15(8a): 332-336.'),(7300,'164','In vitro Evaluation of Enzymatic activities of Trichoderma spp. Isolated from Copper Mining Areas of Uttarakhand','Erayya, Nandani Shukla, Kalmesh Managanvi, Srinivasaraghavan A., Rekha Balodi and J. Kumar','In-vitro-Evaluation-of-Enzymatic-activities-of-Trichoderma-spp.-Isolated-from-Copper-Mining-Areas-of-Uttarakhand-Kalmesh-M-55.pdf','',1,'A total of 29 Trichoderma stains were isolated and purified from rhizospheric soil samples collected from different copper mining area (Nainital, Bageshwar and Tehri Garwal districts) of Uttarakhand hills. These Trichoderma isolates were assessed for their enzymatic potential under in vitro conditions using colorimetric method. Among the isolates, TCMS-36 showed maximum (116.5EU) chitosanolytic activity followed by TCMS-65 andTh-14 (53.5 EU), TCMS-5 (51.0 EU) and TCMS-2(47.0 EU). TCMS-2 showed maximum β-1, 3 endoglucanase activity of 85.56 EU followed by TCMS-43 (84.89 EU), TCMS-34 (82.0 EU), TCMS-14b (80.67 EU) and TCMS-4(80.22 EU). While TCMS-36 showed maximum chitinase activity of 15.5 EU. However, TCMS-16 was found to have maximum (93.77 EU) cellobiase activity which was followed by TCMS-24 (19.33 EU) and Th-32 (14.44 EU). Among different enzymes assayed, the activity of chitosanase was found to be maximum followed by β-1,3 endoglucanase activity and cellobiose degrading enzymes activity. However, chitinase activity was least (≤15.56 EU) in all the tested isolates. The enzymatic activity is one of the important attributes of a potential bio-control agent to dissolve the cell wall of the pathogenic fungi. Hence, the enzymatic activity can be directly correlated with degree of parasitism. The selected Trichoderma isolates with maximum enzymatic potential could be further screened against various plant pathogenic fungi and can be used for effective, economical, ecofriendly and sustainable management of fungal diseases of agricultural and horticultural crops. ','Biocontrol, Trichoderma, Enzymes, Antagonism, Sustainability, plant disease','Trichoderma species are highly efficient producers of many extracellular enzymes and it is a unique feature of Trichoderma species that is the main reason of their antagonistic nature. The extracellular hydrolytic enzyme activities were exhibited at the different rates by different Trichoderma species. The enzymatic activity is directly related to the antagonistic potential of the Trichoderma spp. The enzymes produced by Trichoderma spp. affect the chemistry of cell wall which is accompanied by cell wall degradation. The extracellular hydrolytic enzymes played important role in mycoparasitism and antibiosis which are essential aspect for the bio-control of pathogens. The Trichoderma strains with high enzymatic potential could be screened further for their antagonistic activity and can be used for the sustainable crop disease management and in organic agriculture systems. ','-','Erayya, Nandani Shukla, Kalmesh Managanvi, Srinivasaraghavan A., Rekha Balodi and J. Kumar (2023). In vitro Evaluation of Enzymatic activities of Trichoderma spp. Isolated from Copper Mining Areas of Uttarakhand. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 15(8a): 337-342.'),(7301,'164','Residual effect of Organic Garden Pea Cultivation on Succeeding Amaranth Growth and Soil properties in the Foot Hills of Eastern Himalayan Region ','Suprava Biswal, Ranjit Chatterjee and Sindhu V.','56-Residual-effect-of-Organic-Garden-Pea-Cultivation-on-Succeeding-Amaranth-Growth-and-Soil-properties-in-the-Foot-Hills-of-Eastern-Himalayan-Region--Suprava-Biswal-56.pdf','',1,'Conventional organic garden pea cultivation suffers from lower fruit yield due to the use of traditional nutrient sources like farmyard manure. Selection of proper nutrient management practices can enhance crop growth, yield and as well as soil health. The residual nutrients after proper nutrient management practices can be better utilized by cultivating succeeding crop in the same field. A field experiment was conducted during 2020-21 and 2021-22 at the UBKV Instructional farm, Pundibari, Coochbehar, West Bengal, India to find out the effect of organic amendments of garden pea cultivation and its residual effect on succeeding Amaranth crop growth and soil fertility status. The garden pea crop was grown in split plot design with three replications by combining four main plot factors and four sub plot factors. Succeeding leafy vegetable crop Amaranth was raised on the same plots of garden pea field. The findings of this study suggested that organic manure application on garden pea crop significantly influence the Amaranth growth and soil quality over the foliar spray. The organic amendments i.e., biofertilizer enriched farmyard manure @ 20 t/ha recorded the highest individual plant weight (6.68 g), fresh plant yield/plot (2.20 kg), fresh plant yield/ha (3.88 ton) and plant biomass (0.78 t/ha) of Amaranth crop. The same organic amendments also recorded the highest residual nitrogen (222.36 kg/ha), phosphorous (18.62 kg/ha) and potassium (99.85 kg/ha) content in the soil after harvesting of Amaranth crop. The experimental findings demonstrated that Azophos biofertilizer enriched farmyard manure may be adopted for organic garden pea cultivation to achieve higher green leaf yield and sustainable soil health in garden pea- Amaranth cropping system. ABSTRACT: Conventional organic garden pea cultivation suffers from lower fruit yield due to the use of traditional nutrient sources like farmyard manure. Selection of proper nutrient management practices can enhance crop growth, yield and as well as soil health. The residual nutrients after proper nutrient management practices can be better utilized by cultivating succeeding crop in the same field. A field experiment was conducted during 2020-21 and 2021-22 at the UBKV Instructional farm, Pundibari, Coochbehar, West Bengal, India to find out the effect of organic amendments of garden pea cultivation and its residual effect on succeeding Amaranth crop growth and soil fertility status. The garden pea crop was grown in split plot design with three replications by combining four main plot factors and four sub plot factors. Succeeding leafy vegetable crop Amaranth was raised on the same plots of garden pea field. The findings of this study suggested that organic manure application on garden pea crop significantly influence the Amaranth growth and soil quality over the foliar spray. The organic amendments i.e., biofertilizer enriched farmyard manure @ 20 t/ha recorded the highest individual plant weight (6.68 g), fresh plant yield/plot (2.20 kg), fresh plant yield/ha (3.88 ton) and plant biomass (0.78 t/ha) of Amaranth crop. The same organic amendments also recorded the highest residual nitrogen (222.36 kg/ha), phosphorous (18.62 kg/ha) and potassium (99.85 kg/ha) content in the soil after harvesting of Amaranth crop. The experimental findings demonstrated that Azophos biofertilizer enriched farmyard manure may be adopted for organic garden pea cultivation to achieve higher green leaf yield and sustainable soil health in garden pea- Amaranth cropping system. ','Residual effect, garden pea-Amaranth cropping system, organic, soil fertility, biofertilizers enriched manure. ','The present study demonstrated that adoption of Azophos biofertilizer enriched FYM as a source of organic manure for organic garden pea cultivation should be practiced for superior growth, yield of Amaranth crop and soil quality. The practice will help long term sustainability of the soil. ','-','Suprava Biswal, Ranjit Chatterjee and Sindhu V. (2023). Residual effect of Organic Garden Pea Cultivation on Succeeding Amaranth Growth and Soil properties in the Foot Hills of Eastern Himalayan Region. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 15(8a): 343-347.'),(7302,'164','Identification and Molecular characterization of Orf virus from Goats of Thanjavur District of Tamilnadu','Manickam R., Puvarajan B., Balasubramaniam A., Balakrishnan S. and Selvaraj J.','57-Identification-and-Molecular-characterization-of-Orf-virus-from-Goats-of-Thanjavur-District-of-Tamilnadu-Manickam-57.pdf','',1,'Contagious pustular dermatitis in goats as often referred as Orf or Scabby mouth being a viral etiology is described to be highly contagious and causing economic losses to the animal husbandry sector. Thanjavur District of Tamilnadu being an agrarian background and depend mostly on livestock and orf like contagious disease pose a serious threat at times affecting their livelihood which has been addressed by earlier and rapid diagnosis .Twenty one number of Orf suspected cases from three flocks of goats in Thanjavur District (Cauvery Delta Region, Tamilnadu) exhibited skin lesions such as erythema and pustules with crusty areas over the muzzle region and perianal areas. The scab material was collected from severely affected goats showing characteristic symptoms and subjected to viral DNA extraction and subsequently the conserved B2L gene was amplified by polymerase chain reaction. The PCR test carried out showed positivity of B2L gene in nineteen samples confirming the Orf virus. As a result, the PCR technique was found to be a swift tool for diagnosis which proved to help in advocating measures for further curtailment of Orf among goats in Cauvery Delta Region of Tamilnadu','Contagious ecthyma - Goat - Orf virus - B2L gene – PCR','From the present investigation it is concluded that the skin lesions in goat were caused by orf viruses (ORFV) and confirmed by molecular method such as Polymerase chain reaction and the challenges posed by sudden occurrence of orf in goats in Thanjavur region was controlled successfully by application of early interventions by separation and treatment of ailing animals and advocation of biosecurity measures in the farm. ','-','Manickam R., Puvarajan B., Balasubramaniam A., Balakrishnan S. and Selvaraj J. (2023). Identification and Molecular characterization of Orf virus from Goats of Thanjavur District of Tamilnadu. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 15(8a): 348-351.'),(7303,'164','Pathogenic variability of Rhizoctonia bataticola and Sclerotium rolfsii isolates of Groundnut (Arachis hypogeae L.) in Andhra Pradesh','T. Ganesh, K. Vemana, B.V. Bhaskara Reddy, N.C. Venkateswarlu, A. Sri Vidhya, R. Sarada Jayalakshmi Devi and K.S.S. Naik','58-Pathogenic-variability-of-Rhizoctonia-bataticola-and-Sclerotium-rolfsii-isolates-of-Groundnut-_Arachis-hypogeae-L.pdf','',1,'Groundnut is an important oil seed leguminous crop which is affected by several fungal, viral and phytoplasmal diseases. Among the fungal diseases, soil borne diseases viz., dry root and stem rot incited by Rhizoctonia bataticola and Sclerotium rolfsii respectively are the most important as they possess the major threat to the crop in all the stages of crop and causes higher yield loss. The soil borne fungal pathogens survives in the soil for many years in the form of microsclerotia and sclerotia and causing soil borne fungal infections when the conditions are favorable. The current study was conducted to know the pathogenic variability (virulence) among these pathogens. Dry root rot and stem rot affected samples were collected from the major groundnut growing areas of Rayalaseema region of Andhra Pradesh and isolated the pathogens. A total of 44 Rhizoctonia bataticola and 40 Sclerotium rolfsii isolates were isolated and purified and tested the pathogenicity under glasshouse conditions at ARS, Kadiri by following the sick soil inoculation method with mass multiplied pathogen(s) inoculum on sorghum grains. The results revealed that the isolate of GNRb-2 of Rhizoctonia bataticola and GNSr-25 of Sclerotium rolfsii isolate were found significantly more virulent with maximum of 89.4 and 95.8 percent disease incidence respectively and the isolates GNRb-5, GNRb-17, GNRb-29 of R. bataticola and GNSr-24 of S. rolfsii were recorded the least percent disease incidence with 13.3 and 13.3 respectively, when compared with other isolates tested. Further the isolates were categorized into the non-pathogenic, weekly pathogenic (WP), moderately pathogenic (MP, strongly pathogenic (SP) and highly/ aggressively pathogenic (HP/AP) based on their percent disease incidence (PDI) on the susceptible host cv. Kadiri-6. ','Groundnut, Rhizoctonia bataticola, Sclerotium rolfsii, Pathogenic variability.','The plants showing the typical symptoms of the dry root rot and stem rot were collected from the major groundnut growing regions of the Andhra Pradesh viz., Anantapuramu, Chittoor, YSR Kadapa, Kurnool and SPSR Nellore districts. A total of 44 No’s of Rhizoctonia bataticola and 40 No’s of the Sclerotium rolfsii isolates were isolated from the field collected samples and were tested for their pathogenic variability. The R. bataticola and S. rolfsii isolate(s) viz., GNRb-2 and GNSr-25 isolates showed the maximum percent disease incidence of 89.39 and 95.83 respectively. The isolates viz., GNRb-5, GNRb-17, GNRb-29 of R. bataticola and GNSr-24 of S. rolfsii were recorded the lowest disease incidence with 13.33 and 13.33 respectively, when compared with other isolates tested. Further the isolates were categorized into the non-pathogenic, weekly pathogenic (WP), moderately pathogenic (MP, strongly pathogenic (SP) and highly/ aggressively pathogenic (HP/AP) based on their percent disease incidence (PDI) on the susceptible host (K-6 groundnut cultivar). Among the isolates tested for R. bataticola the non-pathogenic were found as zero or nil, whereas WP were found as 4 and 13, MP as 21 and 18, SP as 15 and 16 and HP as 3 and 4 in Rhizoctonia bataticola and Sclerotium rolfsii respectively. The categorization of the pathogen isolates will help to understand the virulence pattern of the pathogens. Further it was helpful to study the major factors responsible for their variation in the pathogenicity at the genomic level. ','-','T. Ganesh, K. Vemana, B.V. Bhaskara Reddy, N.C. Venkateswarlu, A. Sri Vidhya, R. Sarada Jayalakshmi Devi and K.S.S. Naik (2023). Pathogenic variability of Rhizoctonia bataticola and Sclerotium rolfsii isolates of Groundnut (Arachis hypogeae L.) in Andhra Pradesh. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 15(8a): 352-358.'),(7304,'28','Organized Retailing sector in Bharat: A Socio-Economic Study of Customers\' Perception of Bhopal District','Suteekshan Dwivedi','17 IJAMH-RT-1301-Suteekshan Dwivedi.pdf','',1,'-','-','-','-','-'),(7305,'164','Growth Potential of Hydroponic Maize and Horse Gram with customized Nutrient Supplements for Climate Resilient Fodder Production','P. Tensingh Gnanaraj, S. Gunasekaran, C. Valli, R. Karunakaran and H. Gopi','59 Growth Potential of Hydroponic Maize and Horse Gram with customized Nutrient Supplements for Climate Resilient Fodder Production-P Tensingh Gnanaraj.pdf','',1,'Inadequate availability of green fodder is commonly noticed in livestock feeding. Land and water are the essential resources for fodder production. Limited allocation of land for fodder cultivation and climatic variability reduces green fodder production for livestock. Hydroponic fodder production is an alternative technology to increase green fodder production by vertical farming. The study established that if nutrient supplementation for hydroponic fodder production is to be done, a pH of 7.5 is ideal for nutrient solution. However, ground water without addition of any nutrients supported significantly (P<0.05) highest fresh biomass yield (kg / kg of seed) for both hydroponic fodder maize (3.89 ± 0.09) and hydroponic fodder horse gram (5.50 ± 0.14). On comparing different water sources for hydroponic fodder production, water from Chennai district supported maximum fresh biomass yield. A hydroponic fodder production unit with a capacity to produce 18.18 kg of hydroponic fodder maize and 6.73 kg of hydroponic fodder horse gram per day was designed. Hence, hydroponic fodder maize and horse gram can be produced by utilizing ground water in a fabricated unit for feeding ruminants in climate change scenario.','Hydroponic fodder, Nutrients, Ground water, Hydroponic unit','The study established that if nutrient supplementation is to be done, a pH of 7.5 is ideal for nutrient solution. However, ground water without addition of any nutrients supported significantly (P<0.05) highest fresh biomass yield (kg / kg of seed) for both hydroponic fodder maize (3.89 ± 0.09) and hydroponic fodder horse gram (5.50 ± 0.14). On comparing different water sources for hydroponic fodder production, water from Chennai district, resembled water with added nutrients at 25 per cent lower than basal dose and supported maximum fresh biomass yield (3.48 ± 0.01 kg / kg of seed) compared to water sources from Thiruvallur and Kancheepuram districts. \r\nThe fabricated hydroponic fodder production unit, shrouded with 70 per cent shade net, occupying 24 square feet, made of dismountable poly vinyl chloride (PVC) pipes with 72 fodder trays, with an automatic irrigation system. This unit can produce 18.18 kg of hydroponic fodder maize and 6.73 kg of hydroponic fodder horse gram per day for feeding ruminants.\r\n','-','P. Tensingh Gnanaraj, S. Gunasekaran, C. Valli, R. Karunakaran and H. Gopi (2023). Growth Potential of Hydroponic Maize and Horse Gram with customized Nutrient Supplements for Climate Resilient Fodder Production. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 15(8a): 359-364.'),(7306,'164','Assessment of General and Specific Combining abilities for Yield-related Traits in Bitter Gourd (Momordica charantia L.)','Vinay Kumar, S.K. Maurya, N.K. Singh, Dhirendra Singh and Alka Verma','Assessment of General and Specific Combining abilities for Yield-related Traits in Bitter Gourd (Momordica charantia L.)-Vinay Kumar-60.pdf','',1,'Eight diverse genotypes of bitter gourd (Momordica charantia L.) viz. PBIG-1, PBIG-2, PBIG-4, PBIG-12, PBIG-15, PBIG-17, PBIG-19 and PBIG-21, were crossed using a diallel design (excluding reciprocals). The resulting, 28 F1 hybrids, along with the parents, were evaluated in a randomized complete block design with three replications during the summer seasons of 2022 at the Vegetable Research Centre, G.B. Pant University of Agriculture and Technology, Pantnagar, Uttarakhand, (India). Under given agro-climatic conditions, it is important to study the performance of genotypes and hybrids and to identify the superior performing genotypes and hybrids of bitter gourd with desirable features for this zone. The analysis of variance for the experimental design revealed the presence of sufficient genetic variability within the experimental material for all the traits. Combining ability analysis has revealed the importance of both additive and non-additive gene actions. Among the parents PBIG-4, PBIG-1 and PBIG-21 showed superior combiner for earliness and yield-related traits, PBIG-12 for vine length and number of secondary branches per plant and root diameter, while PBIG-15 observed good general combiner for number of primary branches per plant. Based on their overall performance, the following superior crosses PBIG-1 × PBIG-19, PBIG-17 × PBIG-2, were desirable for days to anthesis of first male flower and number of nodes to first male flower. The cross PBIG-21 × PBIG-12 was superior in terms of days to anthesis of first female flower, number of nodes to first female flower, number of primary branches, root length (cm), fruit yield per plant (g) and fruit yield (q/ha). While, PBIG-1 × PBIG-2 was good for vine length (m) at harvest and root diameter (mm), respectively. The cross combinations PBIG-21 × PBIG-2 was superior in terms of days to the first fruit harvest, while PBIG-4 × PBIG-19 superior for number of secondary branches per plant consistently during summer season 2022. Consequently, these aforementioned crosses could undergo further assessment in future breeding programs for more extensive testing.','Bitter gourd (Momordica charantia L.), Parents, GCA, SCA.','Diallel mating design without reciprocal crosses revealed that analysis of variance due to genotypes and crosses showed significant difference for most of the characters indicating the presence of sufficient variation in genetic material. According to combining ability the parents PBIG-4, PBIG-1, PBIG-21, PBIG-12 and PBIG-15 observed superior general combiner for most of the traits and could be used for developing desirable bitter gourd hybrids. The hybrids PBIG-21 × PBIG-2 and PBIG-21 × PBIG-12 Showed significant positive SCA effects indicating good specific combining ability for days to first fruit harvest, number of fruit yield per plant and yield per hectare. ','-','Vinay Kumar, S.K. Maurya, N.K. Singh, Dhirendra Singh and Alka Verma (2023). Assessment of General and Specific Combining abilities for Yield-related Traits in Bitter Gourd (Momordica charantia L.). Biological Forum – An International Journal, 15(8a): 365-370.'),(7307,'164','Unlocking the Growth Potential of Melia azedarach Seedlings: The Synergistic Impact of Glomus mosseae and Pre-sowing Treatments','Mamta Khaiper, Sunil Kumar Dhanda, Karan Singh Ahlawat, Pawan Kumar Poonia, Anil Kumar, Preety Verma, Rakesh Chugh and Monika Jangra\r\n','61 Unlocking the Growth Potential of Melia azedarach Seedlings The Synergistic Impact of Glomus mosseae and Pre-sowing Treatments-61-Mamta Khaiper.pdf','',1,'Melia Azedarach seeds exhibit irregular germination patterns, leading to uneven growth rates among seedlings by implementing pre-germination treatments these seedlings can be nurtured into thriving trees. This study was conducted in the Nursery of the Forestry Department at CCS Haryana Agricultural University, Hisar in 2019. The aim was to investigate the impact of various pre-sowing treatments (including normal water, concentrated H2SO4, gibberellic acid, and cow dung slurry) on the growth and biomass of Melia azedarach seedlings, both individually and in combination with the mycorrhizal fungi Glomus mosseae. The experiments were carried out in a greenhouse from March to October 2019, using a completely randomized design. Each experiment comprised six treatments, including a control group, with Glomus mosseae used as a common treatment in every experiment. The experiments were replicated five times. Results showed that Melia azedarach seeds soaked in normal water for 72 hours + Glomus mosseae, concentrated H2SO4 for 8 minutes + Glomus mosseae, gibberellic acid 200 ppm for 24 hours + Glomus mosseae, and cow dung slurry for 6 days + Glomus mosseae exhibited the highest seedling height, root length, root-to-shoot ratio, and seedling vigor after 180 days of sowing. These treatments also resulted in the largest leaf area, highest fresh and dry shoot and root weight, and highest seedling vigor index. Among all the treatments, soaking the seeds in gibberellic acid 200 ppm for 24 hours and sowing them in soil inoculated with Glomus mosseae spores was found to be the most effective pre-sowing treatment for promoting vigorous growth and maximizing the biomass of Melia azedarach seedlings.','Glomus mosseae, Melia azedarach, Gibberellic acid, leaf area and seedling vigor.','The study\'s findings demonstrated the significance of pre-sowing interventions for seedling development and biomass production in Melia azedarach. Whereas, Glomus mosseae-treated seeds had a greater favorable impact on growth and biomass than untreated seeds or seeds treated without Glomus mosseae. The seedlings whose seeds were treated with the treatments Normal water for 72 hours + Glomus mosseae*, Conc. H2SO4 for 8 minutes + Glomus mosseae*, Gibberellic acid 200 ppm for 24 hours + Glomus mosseae*, and Cow dung slurry for 6 days + Glomus mosseae* were recorded to have the highest levels of seedling height, root length, root: shoot ratio, seedling vigor Out of all of these treatments, Gibberellic acid 200 ppm for 24 hours plus Glomus mosseae* had the greatest results in terms of growth and biomass. Therefore, Melia azedarach seeds should be treated with 200 ppm of gibberellic acid for 24 hours along with Glomus mosseae to achieve greater seedling growth and biomass.','-','Mamta Khaiper, Sunil Kumar Dhanda, Karan Singh Ahlawat, Pawan Kumar Poonia, Anil Kumar, Preety Verma, Rakesh Chugh and Monika Jangra (2023). Unlocking the Growth Potential of Melia azedarach Seedlings: The Synergistic Impact of Glomus mosseae and Pre-sowing Treatments. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 15(8a): 371-377.'),(7308,'164','Electrocardiographic Abnormalities in Lead Induced Cardiotoxicity and its Amelioration with Antioxidants in Wistar Rats','Karthik I., Dubey A., Swamy M., Tiwari A., Verma Y., Rakesh S. and Naveen D.','62 Electrocardiographic Abnormalities in Lead Induced Cardiotoxicity and its Amelioration with Antioxidants in Wistar Rats-62-Ithrineni Karthik.pdf','',1,'Lead (Pb) is a well-recognized environmental pollutant and multisystemic toxin. The present work was designed to study the electrocardiographic (ECG) abnormalities in lead induced cardiotoxicity and their amelioration with antioxidants in Wistar rats. The experiment was conducted on 32 albino Wistar rats of either sex with 6-8 weeks of age having body weight of 180-200 g. These rats were maintained as per the standard CPCSEA guidelines and the study protocol was approved by IAEC, Co.V.Sc. & A.H., Jabalpur. Rats were randomly divided into four groups having 08 rats each. Group I served as control group. Group II rats received lead acetate @ 150 mg/kg b.wt. Group III rats received lead acetate @ 150 mg/kg b.wt. along with curcumin @ 400 mg/kg b.wt. and ascorbic acid @ 420 mg/kg b.wt. Group IV rats received curcumin @ 400 mg/kg b.wt. and ascorbic acid @ 420 mg/kg b.wt. All the rats were administered orally for 30 consecutive days and provided with adlibitum feed and water. Electrocardiography was performed in all the rats on day 30 of experimental period. Electrocardiography of rats from group II revealed significantly elevated heart rate, QRS amplitude, QT interval and significantly reduced PR interval as compared to control group. On simultaneous administration of antioxidants against lead induced cardiotoxicity, significant improvement in these ECG parameters was noticed. Several challenges have arisen during the electrocardiographic observations, including inadequate literature availability, anesthetic maintenance of rats, and ECG calibration. However, these challenges have been addressed with the assistance of veterinary cardiologists from the Department of Veterinary Medicine. Thus, the present study revealed that lead exposure has toxic effects on heart which disturb its functioning, while natural antioxidants (Curcumin and Ascorbic acid) may be preferable in reducing lead induced cardiotoxicity suggesting that chelating agents having antioxidant properties are preferred in treating cardiovascular disorders accompanying lead toxicity.','Lead acetate, Curcumin, Ascorbic acid, Electrocardiography.','In conclusion, the present investigation enunciated that lead acetate induced the significant cardiotoxicity elicited by significant alterations in electrocardiographic parameters of heart. Use of curcumin and ascorbic acid countered the adverse effects of lead induced cardiotoxicity to a major extent suggesting its antioxidant potential. Also, this study suggested that lead chelating agents having antioxidant properties are preferred in treating cardiovascular disorders accompanying lead toxicity.','-','Karthik I., Dubey A., Swamy M., Tiwari A.,Verma Y., Rakesh S. and Naveen D. (2023). Electrocardiographic Abnormalities in Lead Induced Cardiotoxicity and its Amelioration with Antioxidants in Wistar Rats. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 15(8a): 378-382.'),(7309,'164','Effect of Dietary Chromium Supplementation on Liver Function of Crossbred Calves in Pre and Post Weaning Period','Mohit Bharadwaj, B.C. Mondal, Anshu Rahal and Jyoti Palod ','Effect-of-Dietary-Chromium-Supplementation-on-Liver-Function-of-Crossbred-Calves-in-Pre-and-Post-Weaning-Period-Mohit-Bharadwaj-63.pdf','',1,'Chromium plays novel as cofactor in many enzymatic reactions. Organic chromium lowered the serum cortisol level which improves the immune system in newborn calves. Thus, feeding trial was conducted on newborn calves to evaluate chromium role their health in terms of liver function test. A feeding trial, of 180-day duration was conducted to evaluate effect of dietary supplementation of chromium on liver profile of crossbred calves during pre and post weaning period. Eighteen newborn crossbred calves, of either sex were randomly divided into 3 groups, each consisting of 6 animals. The treatments were: T0- control (no chromium), T1- nano chromium @ 0.05 mg/kg BW 0.75 and T2 chromium picolinate @ 0.05mg/kg BW 0.75. The results of current investigation indicated that the average serum AST during pre and post weaning feeding period was significantly higher (P<0.05) in the T0 group compared to T1 and T2 treatment groups. But, during pre-weaning feeding period, serum AST level concentration was statistically similar in T1 and T2 groups. Furthermore, T1 group showed lower level of serum AST concentration compared to T0 and T2 groups during post weaning feeding period. ALP levels were found to be statistically similar during pre-weaning feeding period. During post weaning feeding period, serum ALP concentration was significantly higher (P<0.05) in T0 and T2 groups compared to T1 group. In both pre and post weaning feeding trial, serum ALT level was non-significantly different among different treatment groups. It is concluded that chromium supplementation in variable forms show effect on liver function test in both pre and post weaning feeding trial.','Chromium picolinate, crossbred calf, nano chromium, liver function','It can be concluded that chromium supplementation in different forms does not show any effect on serum ALT concentration during pre and post weaning feeding period. Furthermore, both serum AST and ALP levels were affected by chromium supplementation during post weaning feeding trial in crossbred calves. Collectively, it was concluded that chromium supplementation of nano chromium and chromium picolinate could exert effect on liver function in crossbred calves.','-','Mohit Bharadwaj, B.C. Mondal, Anshu Rahal and Jyoti Palod (2023). Effect of Dietary Chromium Supplementation on Liver Function of Crossbred Calves in Pre and Post Weaning Period. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 15(8a): 383-388.'),(7310,'164','Socio-Economic Profile and existing Managemental Practices of Goat Farmers in Tiruvarur District of Tamil Nadu','Sujatha V., Selvaraj P., Leela V., Ramachandran M., Ranganathan V., Balamurugan T.C. and Kathirchelvan M. ','Socio-Economic-Profile-and-existing-Managemental-Practices-of-Goat-Farmers-in-Tiruvarur-District-of-Tamil-Nadu-Sujatha-V-64.pdf','',1,'A study was conducted to determine the socio-economic status of the goat farmers in Tiruvarur district of Tamil Nadu state during the year 2022. A total of 250 goat farmers were selected randomly and interviewed through a pre-tested questionnaire. To explore the socio-economic status of the goat farmers, seven criteria were used in order to establish a baseline. It was observed that most of the goat farmers were literate, aged between 20 to 39 years, landless or small landholders, possessing herd size of less than 30, and marketing less than 20 goats per annum. It was observed that the majority of goat farmers were females. There was a significant (P< 0.01) positive association of gender with each of the seven socioeconomic categories, including age, literacy level, primary occupation, trained skilled labour, land ownership, goat flock size and a number of goats marketed per annum. More than half of the farmers were rearing smaller flock sizes under an extensive system providing only night shelters. The flock size and breeding solely depend on the availability of grazing land and neighborhood bucks. Only one third of the farmers were feeding concentrate, mineral mixture and deworming their flock. Hence, a proper breeding programme and its dissemination through capacity building programmes for farmers could improve the overall population and productivity of the goats in Tiruvarur. Since goats can easily be reared on zero input managemental conditions. It can uplift even the \"poorest of the poor\" to reduce their poverty through goat enterprise.','Socio-economic, management, goat farmers, grazing, breeding, Tiruvarur','This study revealed that goat farming is emerging as a new entrepreneurial self-employment opportunity among the rural youth population. Education and skill development training play a key role in inspiring the disguisedly employed young population into goat farming on a commercial scale. Integration of agriculture with goat farming and wage employees with goat farming were the occupation models existing in the Tiruvarur district. Reducing the herd size during the adverse environmental conditions that exist among the goat farmers. Hence, the effective implementation of fodder cultivation schemes and special projects to develop community grazing lands will address this issue. The creation of massive awareness on concentrate feeding, mineral mixture supplementation, deworming, dipping and vaccination will enrich the knowledge and skills of goat farmers to augment their income and the poverty line from goat husbandry.','-','Sujatha V., Selvaraj P., Leela V., Ramachandran M., Ranganathan V., Balamurugan T.C. and Kathirchelvan M. (2023). Socio-Economic Profile and existing Managemental Practices of Goat Farmers in Tiruvarur District of Tamil Nadu. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 15(8a): 389-396.'),(7311,'164','Effect of different Fertilizer Levels, Biostimulant and Novel Organic Liquid Nutrient on Quality and Economics of Beet Root (Beta vulgaris L.)','S.P. Chaudhari, P.C. Joshi, K.V. Chaudhary and J.H. Brahmbhatt ','Effect-of-different-Fertilizer-Levels,-Biostimulant-and-Novel-Organic-Liquid-Nutrient-on-Quality-and-Economics-of-Beet-Root-(Beta-vulgaris-L.)-SP-Chaudhari-65.pdf','',1,'To study influence of different fertilizer levels, biostimulant and novel organic liquid nutrient on quality and economics parameters of beet root (Beta vulgaris L.), A field experiment was conducted at College Farm, College of Horticulture, Sardarkrushinagar Dantiwada Agricultural University, Jagudan during rabi season of 2020-21 and 2021-22. The experiment was laid out in Randomized Block Design with factorial concept with three replications. Present investigation comprising three factors viz., three levels of fertilizer viz., 40 % RDF (f1), 60 % RDF (f2) and 80 % RDF (f3), biostimulant with three levels viz., Jeevamruta (b1), Panchagavya(b2) and Bio NPK Consortium (b3) and three levels of novel organic liquid nutrient viz., 1.0 % (n1), 1.5 % (n2) and 2.0 % (n3). Thus, there were total 27 treatment combinations under study consist. The results indicates maximum values of different quality and economics parameters viz., Total soluble solids, total chlorophyll content (mg/g), carotenoid content (mg g-1), marketable shelf life, highest gross returns, net returns and best benefit cost ratio were observed with application of 80 % RDF (f3), application of panchagavya@ 3 % (b2) and application novel organic liquid nutrient @ 2.0 % (n3) in both the years. Integrated Nutrient Management is an alternative for sustainable crop production rather than use of inorganic fertilizers only. Now-a-days, consumers are demanding higher quality and safer food. Hence, there is urgent need to improve organic fertilizers with natural minerals through biological processes.','Beet root, Biostimulant, Novel organic liquid, Jeevamruta, Panchagavya and Bio NPK Consortium','On the basis of experimental evidence, higher quality and net return can be obtained through application of 80 % recommended dose of fertilizer and foliar spray of panchagavya 3 % at 20, 35 and 50 days after sowing of beet root during rabi season.','-','S.P. Chaudhari, P.C. Joshi, K.V. Chaudhary and J.H. Brahmbhatt (2023). Effect of different Fertilizer Levels, Biostimulant and Novel Organic Liquid Nutrient on Quality and Economics of Beet Root (Beta vulgaris L.). Biological Forum – An International Journal, 15(8a): 397-401.'),(7312,'164','Effect of different Homeopathic Medicines on Mycelial Growth of Early Blight of Tomato (Alternaria solani)','Naimish Kumar, Samir Kumar Biswas, Bipin Verma and Gajendra Pratap ','Effect-of-different-Homeopathic-Medicines-on-Mycelial-Growth-of-Early-Blight-of-Tomato-(Alternaria-solani)-Naimish-Kumar-66.pdf','',1,'The early blight disease poses a significant challenge for tomato farmers, inflicting substantial economic losses year after year. Four homeopathic remedies i.e. Phosphorus, Arnica montana, Sulphur, and Silicea terra against A. solani was evaluated at different concentrations (0.1%, 0.15%, 0.20%) by poison food technique. Under in vitro conditions, it was observed that the radial mycelium growth of these species experienced a notable reduction as the concentration of the homeopathic medicine increased. This phenomenon was evident at the 8 day after inoculation, Arnica montana@0.20% (73.67%), Sulphur at 0.20% (71.83%), Silica terra at 0.20% (70.02%) and Phosphorus at 0.20% (65.53) had the greatest inhibition of mycelial growth suppression in comparison to the control.','Homeopathic medicines, Antifungal activities, Plant pathogenic fungi','Throughout the process of preparing homeopathic remedies, plants generate secondary metabolites. These metabolites are safe for the environment because they don\'t produce residue and aren\'t harmful. This study looked at how homoeopathic drugs and microbial antagonists worked together to prevent tomato early blight. Homoeopathic medications such as phosphorus, Arnica montana, Sulphur and Silica terra were used to treat pathogens that cause plant diseases. It was discovered that the higher homoeopathic medication concentrations considerably slowed the radial mycelial development of A. solani under in vitro conditions. At 8 DAI, Arnica montana at 0.20% (73.67%), Sulphur at 0.20% (71.83%), Silica terra at 0.20% (70.02%), and Phosphorus at 0.20% (65.53) had the greatest mycelial growth suppression in comparison to the control. Therefore, these homoeopathic medicines can aid plants in protecting themselves from fungal and other pathogen attack. In the future, when more environmentally friendly and sustainable agricultural practises are conceivable, using homoeopathic medicines may be a smart strategy to reduce or even replace synthetic products.','-','Naimish Kumar, Samir Kumar Biswas, Bipin Verma and Gajendra Pratap (2023). Effect of different Homeopathic Medicines on Mycelial Growth of Early Blight of Tomato (Alternaria solani). Biological Forum – An International Journal, 15(8a): 402-406.'),(7313,'164','Production and Marketing of Honey Prospects and Constraints- A Review','Khushdeep Dharni, Rakesh Rathore and Manveer Singh ','Production-and-Marketing-of-Honey-Prospects-and-Constraints--A-Review-Rakesh-Rathore-67.pdf','',1,'Beekeeping is an environmental sustainable activity which could be helpful for increasing agricultural productivity. The purpose of the paper to highlight marketing prospects and constraints in beekeeping. Google Scholar and Web of Science were searched with key words such as honey production, honey marketing, constraints in beekeeping, bee products, buying behaviour of honey products etc. The reviews of different literature, research papers and data sources seeks ﬁnd to discuss various beneﬁts and use of honey, production and profitability of beekeeping, marketing of honey and constraints in bee keeping. Recent increase in consumer interest for healthy products has opened up new vistas for honey products because it’s nutritional and medicinal properties. The review paper highlights the benefits of honey potential of beekeeping, constraints in beekeeping and consumer buying behaviour of honey product attributes. Lack of trained labour, low price in market, lack of working capital when required and low adoptions of modern technology are the important constraints in beekeeping.','Beekeeping, production, marketing, constraints, buying behavior','Honey is consumed for nutritional benefits and medicinal properties. It has a beneficial effect on the immune system and contains nutritional compounds. The nutritional and medicinal benefits of honey are important motivational factors to consume honey. Many products derived from honey and use as health benefits. Besides beekeeping helps in increase the yield and productivity of the crops and lead to sustainable agriculture. Beekeeping provide source of income opportunity especially in rural areas. Beekeeping is a low investment business. It helps the rural youth to be self-employed. Use of herbicides and pesticides on crops, adulteration in honey, high cost of equipment and price fluctuation are some of important constraints in beekeeping.','-','Khushdeep Dharni, Rakesh Rathore and Manveer Singh (2023). Production and Marketing of Honey Prospects and Constraints- A Review. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 15(8a): 407-413.'),(7314,'164','Growth, Rainfall Use Efficiency and Economics of Soybean [Glycine max (L.) Merrill] Varieties as Influenced by Intense Spacing under Ridge and Furrow Planting System in Western Himalayas','Pragya Naithani, Ajay Kumar, B.S. Mahapatra, Priya Bisht, D.K. Shukla, R.K. Sharma and Mandeep Rawat ','Growth-Rainfall-Use-Efficiency-and-Economics-of-Soybean-[Glycine-max-(L.)-Merrill]-Varieties-as-Influenced-by-Intense-Spacing-under-Ridge-and-Furrow-Planting-System-in-Western-Himalay-Pragya-Naithani-68.pdf','',1,'In the face of limited resources and changing climatic conditions, a major challenge for agriculturists is to ensure food security while addressing the issue of an ever-growing population. To meet these challenges, optimization of agronomic practices for better growth and input use efficiency can be a solution. Strategic selection of appropriate varieties and spacing arrangements can enhance growth and ensure sustainable soybean cultivation practices. A field experiment was conducted during the kharif season of 2019–20 at GBPUAT, Pantnagar, to investigate the impact of intense spacing within the ridge and furrow planting system on growth, rainfall use efficiency, and economic aspects of soybean. The study encompassed two soybean varieties (PS 1092 and SL 958) and four plant-to-plant spacing treatments (5 cm, 10 cm, 15 cm, and 20 cm) arranged in a split-plot design. Results indicated that variety SL 958 exhibited significantly greater height compared to PS 1092 throughout various growth stages. Dry matter accumulation peaked with a plant-to-plant spacing of 20 at 60, 75, and 90 days after sowing. A spacing of 10 cm demonstrated significantly higher rainfall use efficiency (RUE), indicating optimum use of resources at closer spacing. Economically, soybean cultivation within the ridge and furrow system proved profitable when plant-to-plant spacing of 10 cm was employed. Overall, intense spacing of 10 cm emerged as the optimal choice for varieties SL 958 and PS 1092 in the context of both growth and economics. This study thus shows that better growth, higher RUE, and economic viability of soybean can be achieved by cultivating them in intense spacing under ridge and furrow planting system, in the western Himalayan region.','CGR, PS 1092, RGR, RUE, SL 958, Soybean, Spacing, Variety','The findings of the study investigate plant height, dry matter accumulation, crop growth rates, and relative growth rates of varieties in spacing arrangements. Intense spacing\'s influence on plant height was consistent with the competition for light theory, leading to taller plants at closer intervals. Additionally, the analysis of rainfall use efficiency highlighted the pivotal role of spacing in maximizing water utilization, with tighter spacing promoting superior water-use efficiency. Economically, our analysis underscores the significance of spacing arrangements. The 45 × 10 spacing configuration emerged as the most economically promising, yielding substantial gross and net returns along with a benefit-cost ratio that is more than one. Furthermore, our comparison of PS 1092 and SL 958 varieties revealed nuanced economic outcomes, suggesting comparable economic viability under different conditions. In conclusion, this study points out that amalgamation of intense spacing and the ridge and furrow planting system offers a transformative avenue to advance soybean cultivation in Tarai region of western Himalayas. The investigation into the growth, RUE and economics of soybean varieties as influenced by intense spacing under the ridge and furrow planting system in the Tarai region of the Western Himalayas embodies a significant step toward unlocking the region\'s agricultural potential. This research seeks to inform decision-makers, farmers, and researchers, offering evidence-based insights to optimize soybean cultivation practices and foster sustainable agricultural practices.','-','Pragya Naithani, Ajay Kumar, B.S. Mahapatra, Priya Bisht, D.K. Shukla, R.K. Sharma and Mandeep Rawat (2023). Growth, Rainfall Use Efficiency and Economics of Soybean [Glycine max (L.) Merrill] Varieties as Influenced by Intense Spacing under Ridge and Furrow Planting System in Western Himalayas. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 15(8a): 414-420.'),(7315,'164','Comparison of the Life Cycle and Bioconversion Efficiency of Medipalle (Telangana) and Thrissur (Kerala) Populations of Black Soldier Fly (Hermetia illucens) (Stratiomyidae: Diptera)','Vinay Chander A., G. Anitha, V. Anitha and V. Ramya ','Comparison-of-the-Life-Cycle-and-Bioconversion-Efficiency-of-Medipalle-(Telangana)-and-Thrissur-(Kerala)-Populations-of-Black-Soldier-Fly-(Hermetia-illucens)-(Stratiomyidae-Diptera)a-Vinay-Chander-A-69.pdf','',1,'The black soldier fly is an ideal insect for waste treatment as it offers an ecofriendly solution for converting waste to nutrient-rich manure while also providing a reliable source of protein, fat, fibre, lauric acid, calcium and other minerals, helping alleviate rising global demand for poultry and animal feed. The soldier flies are found occurring naturally throughout the country. The present study was carried out in the laboratory between November 2022 to February 2023 to study and compare the life cycle, morphometrics and bioconversion efficiency of two geographically different populations viz. Medipalle (Telangana) and Thrissur (Kerala) populations of black soldier fly. Results revealed that duration of larval period (21.57 ± 0.79 days), prepupal period (8.60 ± 0.79 days), pupal period (7.30 ± 0.49 days) and total life period (53.86 ± 1.07 days) was significantly lesser in the Thrissur population (19.57 ± 0.79 days, 7.00 ± 1.29 days, 6.40 ± 0.53,48.57 ± 2.51 days respectively) compared to the Medipalle population. Length of 10, 14 and 18day old larvae was significantly higher in Thrissur population (1.82 ± 0.08 cm, 1.89 ± 0.06 cm, 2.01 ± 0.05 cm), whereas in Medipalle population lengths were 1.31 ± 0.08 cm, 1.62 ± 0.06 cm, 1.70 ± 0.04 cm respectively. Thrissur population was found to be more robust than Medipalle population with length of prepupae and weight of pupae significantly higher (1.90 ± 0.09 cm and 0.12 ± 0.013g/pupa respectively) whereas in Medipalle population it was 1.69 ± 0.03 cm and 0.04 ± 0.006 g/pupae respectively. Crude fat content (%) and ash content (%) were significantly higher in Thrissur population (28.29 ± 0.05%,7.43 ± 0.01% respectively) compared to Medipalle population (20.23 ± 0.07%, 5.97 ± 0.005 % respectively). Thus, it could be concluded that Thrissur population of Black soldier fly held more promise for commercial farming systems owing to its shorter life cycle, heavier larvae, prepupae and pupae and enhanced crude fat and ash content.','Black soldier fly, bioconversion, waste management, lifecycle, proximate','The black soldier fly holds a lot of potential for use in aquafeed and aquaculture, pig and poultry feed, livestock food industry and also for the waste management and recycling units. The Thrissur population, which recorded significantly lesser time to complete the life cycle and larvae, prepupae and pupae were found to be more robust could be certainly recommended for the commercial farms. It also recorded significantly more crude fat, ash and lesser moisture making them more preferred for extraction of fat and insect meal preparation processes.','-','Vinay Chander A., G. Anitha, V. Anitha and V. Ramya (2023). Comparison of the Life Cycle and Bioconversion Efficiency of Medipalle (Telangana) and Thrissur (Kerala) Populations of Black Soldier Fly (Hermetia illucens) (Stratiomyidae: Diptera). Biological Forum – An International Journal, 15(8a): 421-425.'),(7316,'163','Polyphenol Profile in different Maize varieties and their Antioxidant Potentials: Implications in Disease Resistance','Venkataiah Bhootham, Mir Zahoor Gul, Vidya Chernapalli and Karuna Rupula ','Polyphenol-Profile-in-different-Maize-varieties-and-their-antioxidant-Potentials-implications-in-Disease-Resistance-Karuna-Rupula-70.pdf','',1,'Maize is well known to contain a wide variety of secondary metabolites like polyphenols which play a main role in the protection of disease resistance. In recent times there are many varieties of maize that are available commercially in the markets. In the present study, the main objective was to analyze ten maize varieties for moisture content, total polyphenol content (TPC), their characterization by high-performance liquid chromatography (HPLC), evaluation of their antioxidant potentials, and their aflatoxin production in selected maize varieties. The TPC was estimated by Folin Ciocalteu’s reagent (FCR) method, and antioxidant potentials by DPPH assay (2, 2-diphenyl-1-picrylhydrazyl). Maize varieties showed a percent moisture (%M) content of 1.79 ˗3.02%. The MZ-9 showed 3.02% whereas MZ-2 showed 1.79 %, and the total polyphenol content was found to be in the range of 33 ˗ 190 μg g-1 (catechol equivalent). The MZ-7 variety exhibited the highest total polyphenol content (190 ± 0.66 µg g-1) with lowest aflatoxin production (0.446 ± 0.16 µg g-1) whereas the MZ-2 exhibited the lowest (33±0.29µg g-1) and highest aflatoxin production (1.315 ± 0.10 µg g-1). The HPLC analysis of polyphenols in all maize varieties depicted cinnamic and trans ferulic acid as the most abundant polyphenols. The antioxidant assays showed that the MZ-5 variety had the highest activity (79.18%) and MZ-4 had the lowest (62.89%). The present studies reveal the polyphenol profile, antioxidant potentials, and the inherent percent moisture content in the ten different varieties of maize grains (kernels) collected from local regions which may influence their yield (produce) and their resistance to pathogens including toxigenic fungal species such as Aspergillus, Fusarium, and Penicillium. The antioxidant properties of these dietary polyphenols go beyond oxidative stress and may play an important role in preventing degenerative diseases. ','Maize, Polyphenol profile, Antioxidant potential, HPLC, DPPH activity','Ten different varieties of maize grains (kernels) were collected from the local region and analyzed for their inherent moisture content, polyphenol profile, antioxidant potentials, and aflatoxin production in selected maize varieties which exhibited an increase in the amount of polyphenol-resisted production of aflatoxin.','-','Venkataiah Bhootham, Mir Zahoor Gul, Vidya Chernapalli and Karuna Rupula (2023). Polyphenol Profile in different Maize varieties and their antioxidant Potentials: implications in Disease Resistance. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 15(5a): 441-449.'),(7317,'164','Relationship Between Positive Parenting and Self-Esteem of Tribal Adolescents','Moluguri Sravya, G. Swarupa Rani, P. Sreedevi and M. Prasuna','Relationship-Between-Positive-Parenting-and-Self-Esteem-of-Tribal-Adolescents-Moluguri-Sravya-70.pdf','',1,'The study was aimed to investigating the relationship between positive parenting and self-esteem of tribal adolescents in Mancherial district of Telangana state. Positive parenting can boost adolescent’s self-esteem to cope with the challenges of life and helps them to be more confident in decision-making. This study consists the sample of 60 parents and 60 adolescents aged between 13-18 years. Positive parenting questionnaire (PPQ) and Self- Esteem Scale (Developed by Dr. Santosh Dhar and Dr. Upinder Dhar) were used to collect data about two variables. The PPQ assess the parent’s level of nurturing, listening and responsiveness, involvement, positive reinforcement, discipling, monitoring and autonomy. Self-esteem scale assess positivity, openness, competence, assertiveness, self-worth and learning orientation of adolescents. After conducting correlation analysis between positive parenting and self-esteem of tribal adolescents, a significant and strong positive correlation was observed. Specifically, the correlation coefficient was calculated to be r=0.954** at 0.01 level of probability. This finding suggests that as positive parenting practices increase, the self-esteem of tribal adolescents also increases. In other words, when parents engage in behaviors that promote positive parenting, such as providing emotional support, setting clear expectations, and demonstrating care and respect, the self-esteem of adolescents from tribal communities tends to be higher. Interestingly, our results align with existing research in the same field. This consistency across studies strengthens the validity of our findings and supports the notion that positive parenting is a crucial factor in fostering healthy self-esteem among tribal adolescents.','Positive Parenting, positive relationship, self- esteem, tribal adolescents','The study can be concluded that positive parenting has a significant positive relationship with self-esteem of tribal adolescents. Adolescents from tribal communities can develop their competences and increase their self-esteem by being given a safe and encouraging atmosphere where they can express their thoughts, explore their identities, and gain confidence. Positive parenting enables individuals to deal effectively with the demands and challenges of every-day life. Positive parenting empowers individuals to understand themself and assess their strengths and weakness so that to work on their weakness to strengthen their capabilities.','-','Moluguri Sravya, G. Swarupa Rani, P. Sreedevi and M. Prasuna (2023). Relationship Between Positive Parenting and Self-Esteem of Tribal Adolescents. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 15(8a): 426-428.'),(7318,'146','Urgent Need of Special Conservation Efforts for the Critically Endangered species Commiphora wightii (Arn.) Bhandari in Sariska Tiger Reserve,\r\n Rajasthan (India)\r\n','Ravi Prasad, K.L. Meena and S.P. Panda ','Urgent-Need-of-Special-Conservation-Efforts-for-the-Critically-Endangered-species-Commiphora-wightii-(Arn.)-Bhandari-in-Sariska-Tiger-Reserve-SP-Panda-143.pdf','',4,'Commiphora wightii (Arn.) Bhandari, a polygamous and deciduous shrub or small tree species, locally known as ‘Gugul or Guggul’ belongs to the family Burseraceae. Guggul is an important medicinal plant, highly used in local traditional medicines and its gum-resin is widely used for various purposes since time immemorial, having high market value and worldwide demand. It is included under the Critically Endangered (CR) category of IUCN, Red List. Earlier their populations were abundant in the states of Rajasthan and Gujarat, in tough climatic conditions on open dry hills and other rocky habitats but due to over exploitation, lower percentage of seed germination, slow growth rate, habitat disruption etc., it reduced on large scale and became very scanty. Now their populations are mostly surviving in protected areas. During the exhaustive floristic survey of Sariska Tiger Reserve (ca 1213 km2), it was found that there was significant decline in its population in recent past and now only represented in a few locations with few plants. So, at present there is a big question mark on its future existence in Sariska, which was once known as one of its popular territory in Rajasthan. There is an urgent need to multiply this CR species both at in-situ and ex-situ conservation level and restore it in its native habitat by species recovery programmes and mass public awareness.','Critically Endangered, Gugul, in-situ & ex-situ conservation, Oleo-gum resin, Sariska','There is an urgent need of special conservation efforts to be initiated on large scale with mass public awareness in and around the dwellers of Sariska Tiger Reserve for the Critically Endangered species Commiphora wightii (Arn.) Bhandari and restore this CR species in its native habitats by species recovery programme, mass people awareness etc. before they disappear from this world-renowned tiger reserve in near future. It can be multiplied widely by stem cutting (Fig. 2 J & K) and seed germination techniques both in in-situ and ex-situ. It shows encouraging result, if multiplied by cutting of 3–5 years old twigs after treating them with IBA solution. \r\nGermination percentage is quite high (60-70%) in cutting methods as compare to seed germination (10-20%). Although multiplication rate by seed germination is poor, time consuming and need extreme care but fortunately health and vigor of plants prepared from seed germination is of high quality. This plant can also be brought under domestic cultivation for its high value and multipurpose oleo-resin. The study also suggests further investigation on its multiplication by convenient methods and framing proper conservational strategies as early as possible, otherwise in near future there will be a question mark on its existence or it may extinct from wild. \r\n','-','Ravi Prasad, K.L. Meena and S.P. Panda (2023). Urgent Need of Special Conservation Efforts for the Critically Endangered species Commiphora wightii (Arn.) Bhandari in Sariska Tiger Reserve, Rajasthan (India). Biological Forum – An International Journal, 15(4): 861-864.'),(7319,'163','Wood-rotting Fungi of Valmiki National Park, Bihar (India)','Manoj Emanuel Hembrom, Arvind Parihar and S.P. Panda','Wood-rotting-Fungi-of-Valmiki-National-Park,-Bihar-(India)-Sitaram-Prasad-Panda-71.pdf','',1,'Survey of surroundings enhances human capabilities to make future strategies for survival and development of society. Forests and its biotic components like flora, fauna and funga has been documented since the evolution of human beings due to dependency on it. Food, medicine and morphological features of funga have attracted human beings in the past and continue to attract even today. Fungi dependent on woods are excellent target for exploring potential resources for the benefit of humans. Here arise the quarries to find out diversity, relationship, pros and cons between plants and fungi. Unfortunately, these quarries are being restricted day by day in the state like Bihar, India due to human interference in the nature. In and around of Valmiki National Park there is high anthropogenic pressure which lead to document the wood-rotting fungi from the surrounding areas for posterity before any kind of genetic erosion will take place. The present communication deals with the enumeration of 136 species of wood rotting fungi representing 02 major phyla under 38 families belonging to 81 genera of Valmiki National Park, Bihar.','Enumeration, Fungi, Taxonomy, Valmiki National Park','136 species belonging to true fungi and while 04 fungi allies were also found to cause decay of wood. True fungi are falling under two major Phyla which represent 37 families and 75 genera. These fungi are either growing on living tree as parasite or growing on dead and decaying wood as saprophyte.','-','Manoj Emanuel Hembrom, Arvind Parihar and S.P. Panda (2023). Wood-rotting Fungi of Valmiki National Park, Bihar (India). Biological Forum – An International Journal, 15(5a): 450-455.'),(7320,'164','Screening of Rice Genotypes and Evaluating the efficacy of Single and Combination Agrochemicals against Blast, Brown Spot and Bacterial Leaf Blight Diseases in Rice','A. Ramanathan and R. Kanipriya','Screening-of-Rice-Genotypes-and-Evaluating-the-efficacy-of-Single-and-Combination-Agrochemicals-against-Blast,-Brown-Spot-and-Bacterial-Leaf-Blight-Diseases-in-Rice-A-Ramanathan-71.pdf','',1,'Bacterial blight, blast, and brown spot are the commonest diseases causing substantial yield loss in rice around the world. Host plant resistance is most economic, durable, and ecofriendly approach to manage the plant diseases. The resistant cultivars developed through single resistant gene quickly lost its resistance and rendered susceptibility to the diseases. Therefore, harnessing the chemicals for the management of rice diseases is considered as the most efficient method. The present study was carried out at the experimental farm of TRRI, Aduthurai, Tamil Nadu, India during two consecutive years 2021 and 2022 to identify brown spot and bacterial leaf blight disease-resistant rice genotypes under field conditions. About 142 different rice genotypes were screened for resistance against brown spot and bacterial leaf blight for two years consecutively. The rice genotypes such as AD 17083, ADT 39, CB 16118, TPS 3, AD 18131, TRY 3, TR 05031, AD 16154, AD 18035, and Karuppukavuni exhibited moderate resistance to both diseases under natural field conditions. These genotypes may be further utilized as the genetic sources in multiple disease resistance rice breeding programmes. We also conducted the field experiments to evaluate the efficacy of different fungicides, bactericides, and their combinations against the rice diseases during 2021-2022. Combined fungicide application was effective in reducing the disease incidence of rice blasts and brown spots. For blast, Azoxystrobin 18.2% w/w+ Difenoconazole 11.4% w/w SC @ 0.1% was found to be most effective with a reduced disease incidence of 4.2 % compared to control. Meanwhile, for brown spot, the combined application of Carbendazim 25% + Mancozeb 63% @ 0.2% recorded the least disease incidence (10.36%). In Bacterial Leaf Blight incidence, Bionol @ 500 ppm was the most effective bactericide with the lowest incidence of 8.24%. It is evident from the current study, the tested fungicide combinations and bactericides proved the greater control over the pathogens with high yield.','Resistance, major rice diseases, artificial inoculation, antibiotics, fungicides','From the present study it is concluded that ten rice genotypes viz., AD 17083, ADT 39, CB 16118, TPS 3, AD 18131, TRY 3, TR 05031, AD 16154, AD 18035, and Karuppukavuni exhibited moderate resistance to Brown spot and BLB. Meanwhile, testing the efficacy of agrochemicals and antibiotics resulted that the Azoxystrobin 18.2% w/w+ Difenoconazole 11.4% w/w SC @ 0.1 % performed better controlling efficacy against paddy blast. For Brown spot, the application of Carbendazim 12%+ Mancozeb 63% WP @ 0.2% showed the lowest disease incidence. Similarly, Bionol (Bronopol 100%) @ 500ppm was effective against BLB under field conditions.','-','A. Ramanathan and R. Kanipriya (2023). Screening of Rice Genotypes and Evaluating the efficacy of Single and Combination Agrochemicals against Blast, Brown Spot and Bacterial Leaf Blight Diseases in Rice. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 15(8a): 429-437.'),(7321,'156','Urgent Need of Special Conservation Efforts for the Critically Endangered species Commiphora wightii (Arn.) Bhandari in Sariska Tiger Reserve,\r\n Rajasthan (India)\r\n','Ravi Prasad, K.L. Meena and S.P. Panda','Urgent-Need-of-Special-Conservation-Efforts-for-the-Critically-Endangered-species-Commiphora-wightii-(Arn.)-Bhandari-in-Sariska-Tiger-Reserve-SP-Panda-143.pdf','',1,'Commiphora wightii (Arn.) Bhandari, a polygamous and deciduous shrub or small tree species, locally known as ‘Gugul or Guggul’ belongs to the family Burseraceae. Guggul is an important medicinal plant, highly used in local traditional medicines and its gum-resin is widely used for various purposes since time immemorial, having high market value and worldwide demand. It is included under the Critically Endangered (CR) category of IUCN, Red List. Earlier their populations were abundant in the states of Rajasthan and Gujarat, in tough climatic conditions on open dry hills and other rocky habitats but due to over exploitation, lower percentage of seed germination, slow growth rate, habitat disruption etc., it reduced on large scale and became very scanty. Now their populations are mostly surviving in protected areas. During the exhaustive floristic survey of Sariska Tiger Reserve (ca 1213 km2), it was found that there was significant decline in its population in recent past and now only represented in a few locations with few plants. So, at present there is a big question mark on its future existence in Sariska, which was once known as one of its popular territory in Rajasthan. There is an urgent need to multiply this CR species both at in-situ and ex-situ conservation level and restore it in its native habitat by species recovery programmes and mass public awareness.','Critically Endangered, Gugul, in-situ & ex-situ conservation, Oleo-gum resin, Sariska','There is an urgent need of special conservation efforts to be initiated on large scale with mass public awareness in and around the dwellers of Sariska Tiger Reserve for the Critically Endangered species Commiphora wightii (Arn.) Bhandari and restore this CR species in its native habitats by species recovery programme, mass people awareness etc. before they disappear from this world-renowned tiger reserve in near future. It can be multiplied widely by stem cutting (Fig. 2 J & K) and seed germination techniques both in in-situ and ex-situ. It shows encouraging result, if multiplied by cutting of 3–5 years old twigs after treating them with IBA solution. \r\nGermination percentage is quite high (60-70%) in cutting methods as compare to seed germination (10-20%). Although multiplication rate by seed germination is poor, time consuming and need extreme care but fortunately health and vigor of plants prepared from seed germination is of high quality. This plant can also be brought under domestic cultivation for its high value and multipurpose oleo-resin. The study also suggests further investigation on its multiplication by convenient methods and framing proper conservational strategies as early as possible, otherwise in near future there will be a question mark on its existence or it may extinct from wild. \r\n','-','Ravi Prasad, K.L. Meena and S.P. Panda (2023). Urgent Need of Special Conservation Efforts for the Critically Endangered species Commiphora wightii (Arn.) Bhandari in Sariska Tiger Reserve, Rajasthan (India). Biological Forum – An International Journal, 15(4): 861-864.'),(7322,'163','Diversity of Solanum sisybriifolium Lam. – An invasive and Wild Relative of cultivated Brinjal (Solanum melongana L.) in India','S.P. Panda, R.K. Nayak, Anuradha Pradhan, Chinmayee Sahoo and H.N. Subudhi ','Diversity-of-Solanum-sisybriifolium-Lam.-–-An-invasive-and-Wild-Relative-of-cultivated-Brinjal-(Solanum-melongana--L.)-in-India-Hatanath-Subudhi-72.pdf','',1,'Solanum sisybriifolium Lam. is very invasive species and wild relative of cultivated brinjal. It is native to South America and spread in to Africa, Asia, Australia Europe and North America. The distribution in India of this important species is high lighted with distribution, ecology, phytography. Herbaruim study was undertaken available at CNH, Botanical Survey of India, Calcutta. This species spread and available in 12 states of India.','Diversity, Collection, Solanum sisymbriifolium','Extensive survey of this species should be taken up and characterization for different trait should be done to find out resistant gene, which can be utilized for hybridization programme.','-','S.P. Panda, R.K. Nayak, Anuradha Pradhan, Chinmayee Sahoo and H.N. Subudhi (2023). Diversity of Solanum sisybriifolium Lam. – An invasive and Wild Relative of cultivated Brinjal (Solanum melongana L.) in India. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 15(5a): 456-458.'),(7323,'164','Physical Bases of Resistance in Black Gram against Callosobruchus maculatus (F.) (Coleoptera: Chrysomelidae)','Chaitanya Gummadidala, Singh P.S., Raju S.V.S. and Divya P.','Physical-Bases-of-Resistance-in-Black-Gram-against-Callosobruchus-maculatus-(F.)-(Coleoptera-Chrysomelidae)-G.-Chaitanya-72.pdf','',1,'A laboratory experiment was conducted to study the physical bases of resistance in black gram against Callosobruchus maculatus (F.) (Coleoptera: Chrysomelidae) at the department of Entomology & Ag. Zoology, Institute of Agricultural Sciences. BHU, Varanasi. Twelve varieties of black gram seeds viz., PU-19, IPU-3-3, GBG-1, IPU-11-02, LBG787, IPU-2-43, LBG-932, IPU-10-26, PDU-1, IPU-13-1 and LBG-623 were tested for resistance to the pulse beetle C. maculatus and their performance was evaluated using physical parameters (length, width, seed coat thickness, test weight). Seed coat thickness had a positive effect on resistance, while seed length, width and test weight had a negative impact. Identifying the specific physical traits or mechanisms that confer resistance in black gram can be complex. It requires the use of techniques such as microscopy, biochemical assays, and genetic analyses to determine which physical factors (e.g., Length, width, seed coat thickness, test weight) contribute to resistance. Understanding the physical mechanisms through which black gram resists infestation by C. maculatus can guide plant breeders in developing resistant varieties. By identifying the traits and genetic factors responsible for resistance, breeders can incorporate these traits into new cultivars through breeding programs. Developing black gram varieties with inherent resistance to C. maculatus can lead to reduced reliance on chemical pesticides. This can have environmental benefits by minimizing the negative impact of pesticides on non-target organisms and ecosystems.','Pulse beetle, Physical parameters, Seed coat thickness, Seed coat length and Test weight','Based on the results obtained in the experiment it is evident that in the twelve varieties of black gram tested, physical characteristics such as seed coat thickness contributed to resistance, whereas seed weight and size contributed to susceptibility. ','-','Chaitanya Gummadidala, Singh P.S., Raju S.V.S. and Divya P. (2023). Physical Bases of Resistance in Black Gram against Callosobruchus maculatus (F.) (Coleoptera: Chrysomelidae). Biological Forum – An International Journal, 15(8a): 438-444.'),(7324,'157','In vitro and In Silico Evaluation of Anti-Microbial Potential of Leptadenia reticulata - An Endangered Medicinal Plant','Sudipta Kumar Mohanty, Indu B.K., Jesse S. Dondapati and Anuradha M. ','In vitro and In Silico Evaluation of Anti-Microbial Potential of Leptadenia reticulata - An Endangered Medicinal Plant-Sudipta Kumar Mohanty-253.pdf','',1,'The present study reports the antimicrobial efficacy of bioactive compounds present in Leptadenia reticulata. The ethyl acetate extract shows highest antibacterial activity against E. coli. with 16.6 mm zone of inhibition. The methanol extract showed moderate activity against bacteria but produced highest zone of inhibition (24.8 mm, 23.6 mm) against Aspergillus niger and Trichoderma viride. The strong antibacterial activity of ethyl acetate extract against Staphylococcus aureus, Bacillus sibtilis, klebsiella pneumonia was also observed. Trichoderma viride and penicillium citrinum was found to be resistant to aqueous extract. To determine the binding interaction, in silico docking analysis was carried out between important phytoconstituents of L. reticulata, reference molecule and macromolecular enzymes that involved in key cellular biosynthetic process. Stigmasterol, a bioactive compound from L. reticulata exhibited significant docking score of -44.669kcal/mol with Dihydrofolate synthase. Similarly, Diosmetin and beta-sitosterol also exhibited remarkable binding affinity (-43.6159kcal/mol, -42.9215kcal/mol) with Dihydrofolate synthase. Our study further opens new avenues for further exploitation of the bioactive compounds from this important medicinal plant for pharmaceutical application.','Jivanti, Molecular Docking, Antibacterial Assay, Antifungal Assay','The present study validates that L. reticulata has potent bioactive phytoconstituents like Stigmasterol, Diosmetin, beta-sitosterol which are capable of inhibiting microbial growth. However, detail characterizations of the other phytocompounds are required to explore their mode of action and to evaluate the clinical and biosafety potential.','-','Sudipta Kumar Mohanty, Indu B.K., Jesse S. Dondapati and Anuradha M. (2023). In vitro and In Silico Evaluation of Anti-Microbial Potential of Leptadenia reticulata - An Endangered Medicinal Plant. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 15(5): 1699-1704.'),(7325,'157','Effectiveness of Early Multimodal Sensory Stimulation on Neuro-Motor Outcomes in Preterm Infants: A Systematic Review','A. Rajarajeswari, P. Ramachandran, L.N. Padmasani and Sailakshmi Ganesan','Effectiveness of Early Multimodal Sensory Stimulation on Neuro-Motor Outcomes in Preterm Infants A Systematic Review-A. Rajarajeswari-254.pdf','',1,'The main aim of this systematic review was to evaluate the evidences on effectiveness of early multimodal sensory stimulation programs in preterm infants, compared to other conventional therapies, to improve neuromotor outcomes.\r\nThe databases that were searched from 2020 to 2022 were Medline i.e., Scopus, Pubmed, Web of science and EBSCO.\r\nSix articles were identified, involving 425 preterm infants. The included articles used different types of multimodal sensory stimulation in various combinations for improving neuromotor outcomes. All articles had a scoring of 6 or above in PEDro scale. This explains the good quality of articles. Early multimodal sensory stimulation improves neuromotor outcomes in preterm infants.\r\n','Multimodal sensory stimulation, neuromotor outcomes, preterm/prematurity','Early multimodal sensory stimulation may improve neuromotor outcomes in preterm infants.','-','A. Rajarajeswari, P. Ramachandran, L.N. Padmasani and Sailakshmi Ganesan (2023). Effectiveness of Early Multimodal Sensory Stimulation on Neuro-Motor Outcomes in Preterm Infants: A Systematic Review. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 15(5): 1705-1708.'),(7326,'157','Impact of Early Multimodal Sensory Stimulation on Gross Motor Skills of Preterm Infants','A. Rajarajeswari, P.Ramachandran, L.N. Padmasani and Sailakshmi Ganesan ','Impact of Early Multimodal Sensory Stimulation on Gross Motor Skills of Preterm Infants-A. Rajarajeswari-255.pdf','',1,'As preterm infants are exposed to extra uterine environment early, their developing brain may undergo injury and also undergo sensory overload. This may result in delayed gross motor skills in preterm infants. Very preterm and moderate to late preterm infants were included in this study. In experimental group, infants underwent early multimodal sensory stimulation, whereas infants in control group underwent conventional therapy. Alberta infant motor assessment scale was used to evaluate gross motor skills in prone and supine positions before and after the multi-modal stimulation program.\r\nBetween group analysis for AIMS was done using Mann Whitney test. Within group analysis was done using Wilcox an signed rank test. This study concludes that the early multimodal sensory stimulation for the preterm infants is effective in improving the gross motor skills of these infants at 4 months of corrected age.\r\n','Multimodal sensory stimulation, Preterm infants, gross motor skills','This study concludes that the early multimodal sensory stimulation of the preterm infants is effective in improving the gross motor skills of these infants at 4 months of corrected age.','-','A. Rajarajeswari, P.Ramachandran, L.N. Padmasani and Sailakshmi Ganesan (2023). Impact of Early Multimodal Sensory Stimulation on Gross Motor Skills of Preterm Infants. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 15(8a): 1709-1712.'),(7327,'157','Molecular Characterization and Antimicrobial Activity of Actinomycetes Isolated from Rhizosphere Soil','Jakke Kiranmai, Nagaraju Alpula and Podeti Srinivas','Molecular Characterization and Antimicrobial Activity of Actinomycetes Isolated from Rhizosphere Soil-Podeti Srinivas-256.pdf','',1,'Strains of Actinomycetes are isolated from soil samples obtained at different places, including Karimnagar and Warangal in Telangana. Chili plant rhizosphere soil samples were serially diluted and plated on starch-casein media for one to two weeks at 37°C. Using morphological, biochemical, and cultural characterization, the isolated cultures were studied for their morphology, substrate mycelial growth, and enzyme degradation. The experiments were conducted in compliance with the International Streptomyces Project (ISP). The strains KNR-1 and WGL-1 were characterized by biochemical procedures such as morphological, cultural, and 16S rRNA gene sequencing. Following characterization, the cultures were identified using 16S rDNA gene sequencing. Streptomyces broussonetiae KNR-1 (Accession No.OQ421513) and Nocardioides sp. WGL-1 (Accession No.OQ421515). Based on their appearance, the isolates were evaluated for antibacterial efficacy against pathogens. Antimicrobial activity was assessed in five clinical isolates. WGL-1 exhibited the highest antibacterial activity against Escherichia coli ANRPS-P5 (Accession No.OQ151987), Staphylococcus aureus ANRPS-P4 (Accession No.OQ151986), Pseudomonas aeruginosa ANRPS-P3 (Accession No.OQ151984), Salmonella enterica strain -P2(Accession No.OQ151982), and Klebsiella pneumoniae strain -P1 (Accession No OQ151981) while KNR-1 had the lowest. These isolated strains had antibacterial activity and could potentially be used in the research and development of novel antibiotics for use in the pharmaceutical or agricultural industries.','Actinomycetes, Characterization, 16S rDNA, Antimicrobial activity','The KNR-1 and WGL-1 Actinomycetes that have been obtained were isolated from the indigenous flora of soil resources by utilizing starch casein agar, which is used for isolating bacteria, and Actinomycetes isolation agar medium, which is used for isolating yeast. This resulted in smooth, leathery, matte colonies that were cultivated using the spread plate method. When a soil sample taken from the chili rhizosphere is heated, the formation of Actinomycetes is enhanced while the growth of other organisms is inhibited. In addition, the fertility of the soil provides evidence that actinomycetes are present. Actinomycetes are well-known for their ability to produce soluble inorganic materials via the breakdown of chemical compounds that originate from organic forms. This process occurs when Actinomycetes feed on organic matter. Isolate yields were all over the place, despite the fact that KNR-1 and WGL-1 showed dominating growth with better sporulation. From the rhizopheric soil of chilli plants, Streptomyces broussonetiae and Nocardioides sp. were able to be isolated, and their cultural, morphological, and biochemical characteristics were investigated. The KNR-1 and WGL-1 Actinomycetes isolate shown antibacterial activity against Klebsiella pneumonia, Salmonella enterica, Pseudomonas aeruginosa, Staphylococcus aureus, and Escherichia. However, these Actinomycetes isolates had a lower level of activity against Klebsiella pneumoniae in comparison to other test pathogens. The collected DNA was used as a template in PCR reactions, and the 16S rDNA gene was sequenced to identify the various isolates. The size of the Streptomyces broussonetiae amiplicons was 1500 base pairs, while the size of the Nocardioides sp. amiplicons was also 1500 base pairs. Actinomycetes are the genus from which the isolates KNR-1 and WGL-1 originate. These isolates have antibacterial activity and can be used in the research and development of novel antibiotics for either the pharmaceutical or agriculture industries.','-','Jakke Kiranmai, Nagaraju Alpula and Podeti Srinivas (2023). Molecular Characterization and Antimicrobial Activity of Actinomycetes Isolated from Rhizosphere Soil. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 15(5): 1713-1722.'),(7328,'163','Total Protein and Carbohydrate Determination in Leafy Vegetables Cultivated in Hydroponics and Soil','Labya Prabhas, Parvez A. Khan, Megha Agrawal and Amia Ekka','Total-Protein-and-Carbohydrate-Determination-in-Leafy-Vegetables-Cultivated-in-Hydroponics-and-Soil-Labya-Prabhas-73.pdf','',1,'In this study we are aiming to analyze the effect of change in plant cultivation technique associated with plant growth. Not only morphologically many anatomical and estimation of many phyto-chemicals can be considered to analyze the effect of plant cultivation technique. Seven leafy vegetable plant species were selected i.e. Amaranthus viridis, Trigonella foenum graceum L., Chorchorus olitorius L., Coriandrum sativum, Mentha arvensis, Cicer arietinum, Spinacia oleracea L. for cultivating under hydroponic system and in soil. Estimation of amount of protein, carbohydrate and moisture content were aimed to determine the effect on growth of the plant in hydroponics and soil cultivation technique. Hydroponically cultivated leafy plants was found rich in protein except C. olitorius (3.6 mg/g) and T.F. graceum L. (3.7 mg/g) as compared to soil cultivated plant C. olitorius (4.9 mg/g) and T.F. graceum L. (4.4 mg/g). Similarly, carbohydrate content was also consistently high in hydroponically cultivated leafy plants except one species of S. oleracea L. (3.9 mg/g) and it was found as 4.11 mg/g in soil cultivated leafy plant. Somehow growth rate was high in hydroponics under optimum condition. Some important factors in lifecycle of the plant like flowering and fruiting are still to be achieved.','Plant cultivation, phyto-chemicals, hydroponics, soil cultivation, protein, carbohydrate, moisture, optimum','Growth of all leafy vegetable plants was high in hydroponics as compared to soil cultivation. Important factors like growth rate of the plant, chlorophyll content of the leafy vegetables (Prabhas and Ekka 2022), total protein estimation, total carbohydrate estimation, total moisture content in the leaf are helpful to describe the overall effect on growth of the selected plant species when we switch plant cultivation technique. ','-','Labya Prabhas, Parvez A. Khan, Megha Agrawal and Amia Ekka (2023). Total Protein and Carbohydrate Determination in Leafy Vegetables Cultivated in Hydroponics and Soil. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 15(5a): 459-462.'),(7329,'163','Synthesis, Anticancer Activity and Molecular Docking Study of Some Novel 1,3,5-Triazine Derivatives','Ridhima Chauhan and Girdhar Pal Singh','Synthesis, Anticancer Activity and Molecular Docking Study of Some Novel 1,3,5-Triazine Derivatives-Girdhar Pal Singh-74.pdf','',1,'A crucial field of medical research is the study of cancer medications. New medications that can target and cure various forms of cancer are constantly being developed by researchers and pharmaceutical firms. A series of some novel triazine derivatives has been synthesized and screened them for cancer activity against human breast (MCF-7), cervical cancer (C33A), oral (KB) and prostrate (DU-145). The structures of the synthesized compounds were confirmed bn IR, Mass and 1H NMR Sectra. The compounds showed 1b 1e, 1f, 1h and 1j showed significant anticancer activity. The docked compounds 1e, 1f, and 1j (-8.4, -8.4, -8.5) that had the highest binding affinity against the PDB ID: 1XKK. This can possibly lead to emergence of new anticancer agents.','Triazines, Anticancer, Molecular Docking, human breast (MCF-7,), cervical cancer (C33A), oral (KB) and prostrate (DU-145)','A novel and simple method for the synthesis of triazine derivatives has been developed. Some of the synthesized compounds produced cytotoxic activity against cell lines; human breast (MCF-7,), cervical cancer (C33A), oral (KB) and prostrate (DU-145) in particular, the compounds 6-(methylthio)-4-(quinolin-2-yl)-3,4-dihydro-1,3,5-triazine-2(1H)-thione (1e), 6-(methylthio)-4-(quinolin-3-yl)-3,4-dihydro-1,3,5-triazine-2(1H)-thione (1f) and 4-(isoquinolin-3-yl)-6-(methylthio)-3,4-dihydro-1,3,5-triazine-2(1H)-thione (1j) were found as promising compounds and could serve as leads for further modification to develop clinically useful anticancer agents. ','-','Ridhima Chauhan and Girdhar Pal Singh (2023). Synthesis, Anticancer Activity and Molecular Docking Study of Some Novel 1,3,5-Triazine Derivatives. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 15(5a): 463-468.'),(7330,'163','The Effect of Matrix Rhythm Therapy on Post Exercise Recovery in Athletes','Keerthana R., Mohanraj K., Sam Thamburaj A. and Prabhakara Doss D. ','The Effect of Matrix Rhythm Therapy on Post Exercise Recovery in Athletes-Keerthana-75.pdf','',1,'Every athlete possesses a certain objective in life and diligently strives to attain it. The concept of sports performance encompasses four primary characteristics, namely skill, strength, endurance, and recovery. The process of post-exercise recovery is crucial for the restoration and enhancement of muscular and tissue integrity, facilitating their repair and fortification. Active recovery (AR) is a widely employed methodology within the realm of sports. Coaches commonly employ several tactics, such as warm-up, cool-down, and rest, during active recovery. The application of Matrix Rhythm Treatment (MRT) has been found to effectively mitigate muscular tension, restore tissue mobility, enhance overall functional capability, and facilitate the process of recovery. A total of sixty athletes who satisfied the specified requirements were chosen for the study and allocated into two groups, namely the control group and the experimental group, using a simple random sampling technique. The control group adhered to a standard warm-up routine, while the experimental group received Matrix Rhythm Treatment (MRT) in addition to their regular warm-up. The participant\'s subjective exhaustion was assessed both before and after engaging in a treadmill test that involved reaching 80% of their maximal heart rate. These assessments were conducted within a one-minute timeframe. At the conclusion of the study, it was seen that while the traditional group exhibited signs of recovery, the experimental group, which received a warm-up in addition to Matrix rhythm treatment (MRT), demonstrated superior outcomes in comparison to the conventional group.','Post exercise recovery, Active recovery, Matrix rhythm treatment (MRT), Maximum Heart rate, Perceived Fatigue','The findings of this research support the inclusion of Matrix Rhythm Therapy along with warm-up routines to optimize recovery and reduce perceived fatigue in athletes. This approach has the potential to enhance the overall functional capacity and performance of athletes across various sports disciplines. Future studies should explore the long-term effects of MRT on recovery and performance, as well as its applicability to different athlete populations and specific sports contexts.','-','Keerthana R., Mohanraj K., Sam Thamburaj A. and Prabhakara Doss D. (2023). The Effect of Matrix Rhythm Therapy on Post Exercise Recovery in Athletes. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 15(5a): 469-472.'),(7331,'164','Evaluation of Yard Long Bean (Vigna unguiculata ssp. sesquipedalis) Accessions for Yield and Quality Traits','Afrose I., A. Subbiah, K. Sundharaiya, A. Anand and A. Vijayasamundeeswari ','Evaluation-of-Yard-Long-Bean-(Vigna-unguiculata-ssp.-sesquipedalis)-Accessions-for-Yield-and-Quality-Traits-A-Subbiah-73.pdf','',1,'The present field investigation was carried out to evaluate the performance of forty two accessions of yard long bean (Vigna unguiculata L. var. sesquipedalis) for yield and quality attributes. The experiment was laid out by adopting Randomized Block Design (RBD) with three replications and 42 treatments at Grapes Research Station farm located at Anaimalayanpatty, Theni district during summer season of 2023. The per se performance and estimation of variability including phenotypic coefficient of variation and genotypic coefficient of variation, heritability and genetic advance were estimated for the traits viz., days taken for first flowering, days taken for 50 per cent flowering, plant height, pod length, pod girth, individual pod weight, number of pods plant-1 and pod yield plant-1. The genetic parameters for pod length, individual pod weight and pod yield plant-1 were recorded with the highest values. Hence, yield improvement in yard long bean would be achieved through selection based on these attributes.','Genetic advance, GCV, Heritability, PCV, Variability, Yard long bean','On the outset, based on per se performance of yard long bean accessions YLB ACC No. 12 followed by YLB ACC No. 15 recorded maximum pod length, individual pod weight, number of pods plant-1 and pod yield plant-1 respectively and showed significant at CD (0.05) level. Hence, YLB ACC No. 12 is concluded has the best performed accession among the all accessions with the traits. In conclusion, individual plants might be selected with traits such as pods plant-1, pod yield plant-1 and individual pod weight based on genetic variability estimates with high levels of heritability and genetic advance.','-','Afrose I., A. Subbiah, K. Sundharaiya, A. Anand and A. Vijayasamundeeswari (2023). Evaluation of Yard Long Bean (Vigna unguiculata ssp. sesquipedalis) Accessions for Yield and Quality Traits. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 15(8a): 445-450.'),(7332,'164','Performance of Arbi (Colocasia esculenta) under Eucalyptus tereticornis-based Agroforestry System in Plains of Chhattisgarh','Piyusha Yadav, Sarita Bodalkar, Priyanka Kashyap, Dayanand Sai Painkra and Jaymangal Tirkey','Performance-of-Arbi-(Colocasia-esculenta)-under-Eucalyptus-tereticornis-based-Agroforestry-System-in-Plains-of-Chhattisgarh-Piyusha-Yadav-74.pdf','',1,'The experiment was carried out at Herbal Garden of Indira Gandhi Krishi Vishwavidyalaya, Raipur (C.G.) during July 2019 to March 2020. The objectives of experiment were, to study the effect of Eucalyptus (Eucalyptus tereticornis) on growth and yield behaviour of two varieties of Arbi (Colocasia esculenta) and to study the growth behaviour of Eucalyptus tree under Agroforestry System. For this study, the suitable experimental design was laid out on Factorial Randomize Block Design (RBD) with 2 varieties (Indira Arbi-I and Arbi CG–II). Wherein two Treatments and five Replications were carried out on the field. The treatments were used T1 (RDF), & T2 (no fertilizer). Important challenges faced during experiment were reduced rate of transpiration, higher relative humidity under the tree canopy and effective utilization of PAR to achieve sufficient production of photosynthate throughout the growth stages of under storey crops. The analyzed results showed that the RDF application gave greatest yield (corm weight per plant, number of cormel per plant, cormel diameter, fresh & dry weight). The fresh yield of colocasia obtained from eucalyptus-based agroforestry system with use of fertilizer is 118.66 qha-1 and without fertilizer 103.12 qha-1 which reduced, by 12.06 % with statistically significant variation. In case of variety fresh yield Indira Arbi-I (114.286 qha-1) was obtained higher as compared to fresh yield of Arbi CG-II (108.19 qha-1). The height of Eucalyptus tereticornis was 21.58 m ± 2.84 before sowing of colocasia crop which increased by 0.69 m with MAI of 1.06 m while diameter at breast height of Eucalyptus tereticornis was 25.75 cm ± 1.91 before sowing of colocasia crop which increased by 0.67 cm with MAI 1.25 cm of twelve month of growth period.','Agroforestry system, Intercropping, Alley cropping, Arbi (Colocasia esculenta), Eucalyptus (Eucalyptus tereticornis)','The result revealed that highest yield was obtained 118.66 qha-1 in fertilizer treatment and lowest 104.12 qha–1 in T2 where no fertilizer was used, which was reduced by 12.06% with statistically significant variation. In case of variety Indira Arbi-I produced better yield 114.286 q ha–1 as compare to Arbi-CG-II which produced 108.1qha–1 with non significant variation. The crop registered better growth and yield performance in T1 (RDF) treatment, while variations under established Eucalyptus plantations was found, the cultivation of colocasia as cover crop showed better growth & yield performance, while the farmer can get extra income on harvesting of Eucalyptus. Thus Eucalyptus + Colocasia farming was found beneficial in economical point of view. Overall, in this experiment colocasia crop showed better results for variety Indira Arbi-I thus it can be acceptable for cultivation as cover crop under AFS to generate Income.','-','Piyusha Yadav, Sarita Bodalkar, Priyanka Kashyap, Dayanand Sai Painkra and Jaymangal Tirkey (2023). Performance of Arbi (Colocasia esculenta) under Eucalyptus tereticornis-based Agroforestry System in Plains of Chhattisgarh. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 15(8a): 451-455.'),(7333,'164','Adaptability Studies in Advanced Breeding Lines of Groundnut \r\n(Arachis hypogea L.)\r\n','Premika B.P., Venkataravana P., Sowjanya B.A. and Priyadarshini S.K.','Adaptability-Studies-in-Advanced-Breeding-Lines-of-Groundnut-Sowjanya-BA-75.pdf','',1,'Adaptability in different environments needs to be identified properly in order to discriminate between varieties in the targeted agro-ecologies. Furthermore, the presence of drought and biotic stresses continues to result in a yield penalty, which remains a major impediment to groundnut production. Hence, an experiment was conducted to identify specifically adaptable or widely adaptable TMV-2 type groundnut advanced breeding lines across the environments by Additive Main Effects and Multiplicative Interactions (AMMI), AMMI stability value (ASV), and Genotype plus GEI (GGE) bi-plot analysis. Eight advanced breeding lines derived from three crosses viz., TMV-2 × ICGV-91114, TMV-2 × TG-69 and TMV-2 × ICGV-00350 along with two checks viz., TMV-2 and K-6 following RCBD with three replications were sown at three locations. Based on GGE biplot for ranking of genotypes during Kharif 2021, ABLs viz., T82 and T72 were found to be adaptable. “Which won where pattern” of GGE biplot showed that during Kharif 2021, ABLs T72 and T82 were winning genotype in GKVK, ABLs T77, T65 and T61 were winning genotypes in Mandya and ABLT89 was found to be winning genotype in Balajigapade for kernel yield plant-1. Based on ASV and SI, for kernel yield plant-1, during Kharif 2021 ABLs T65, T77, T81 and T82 were found to be adaptable whereas during Rabi 2021 ABLs T77, T81, T82 and T65 were found to be stable and recommended for mega environment production. ABLs T65, T77, T81 and T82were found to be stable across the seasons. The stable lines identified can be used as a parents in breeding programmes.','Groundnut stability, AMMI, ASV, GGE bi-plot, GEI, Stability Analysis, Which won where pattern','TMV-2, the variety developed and released in 1940 (82 years back) is still ruling despite other varieties better than TMV-2 with good pod and kernel features. On the other hand, it has been denotified, thus it is no longer available in the official seed supply chain. There is a pressing need to develop a variety with higher yield potential than TMV-2 but with similar pod and kernel type. One of the reasons for the low productivity of groundnut in the nation is the slow adoption of improved varieties and their variable performance in various conditions. Due to genotype environment interactions (GEI), it is generally known that genotypes that perform well in one environment may or may not perform well in another. A genotype with low GEI will have high stability and vice versa. Therefore, if care is not taken to select for both yield and stability of performance when developing a high yielding cultivar, one may end up with a high yielding genotype that is only suitable for a specific climate.\r\nPooled analysis of variance indicated significant variability attributable to ABLs and their interaction with spatial environments for all the traits considered for the study. For kernel yield plant-1, ABLs T65, T77, T81 and T82 were found to be adaptable. Four ABLs viz., T65, T77, T81 and T82 were found to be stable across the seasons for kernel yield plant-1. Based on which won where pattern for the trait kernel yield plant-1 T72 and T82 were the winning genotypes in environment 1 (GKVK), T77, T65 and T61 in environment 2 (Mandya) and T89 found to be the winning genotype in environment 3 (Balajigapade). Found adaptable lines will be checked for kernel yield potential in future years and after their validation the stable lines can be released as a variety or these stable lines can be used as parents breeding programs.\r\n','-','Premika B.P., Venkataravana P., Sowjanya B.A. and Priyadarshini S.K. (2023). Adaptability Studies in Advanced Breeding Lines of Groundnut (Arachis hypogeal L.). Biological Forum – An International Journal, 15(8a): 456-468.'),(7334,'164','Study on Pesticide usage Pattern in Carrot Agroecosystem at Temperate Regions of Tamil Nadu','Anitha R., Vinothkumar Bojan, L. Rajendran, P.S. Shanmugam, A. Suganthi, G. Arulkumar, E. Madhu Sudhanan, P. Karthik, V. Muralitharan, S.S. Ilango and P. Thangachamy','Study-on-Pesticide-Usage-Pattern-in-Carrot-Agroecosystem-at-Temperate-Regions-of-Tamil-Nadu-Anitha-R-76.pdf','',1,'An extensive survey was conducted in the major carrot growing blocks in The Nilgiris district of Tamil Nadu to assess the pesticide usage pattern in carrot agro-ecosystem. The results revealed that the farmers were used 19 different synthetic chemical insecticides on carrot for the management of different pests. Most frequently sprayed chemical groups were neonicotinoids, diamides, and organophosphates. Among the insecticides, imidacloprid (93%), chlorantraniliprole (86%), lambdacyhalothrin (80%), and cyantraniliprole (75%) were sprayed by most of the farmers. Results revealed that, 72. 22 percent of the carrot growers were marginal farmers, 66.67 per cent of the farmers using power sprayer for spraying insecticides, 75.56 and 85.56 per cent of the farmers spraying 7 to 10 number of insecticides in 3 to 4 days interval within the cropping period of 110 days. The knowledge of farmers on personal safety measures during spraying was very limited moreover, their spraying pattern also did not alternate with different pesticide groups, which may result in the development of resistance and a higher dose of the same insecticide. The frequency of spraying reveals massive damping of synthetic pesticides in the carrot ecosystem.','Carrot, Pesticides, Sprayers, Neonicotinoids and Safety','The results of the present study revealed the pesticide usage pattern in the carrot in The Nilgiris district. Insecticides like imidacloprid, Chlorantraniliprole, lambda cyhalothrin and cyantraniliprole were extensively used by the farmers to control carrot pests. Famer’s knowledge on personal protection while spraying, source of information on pesticide, disposal of pesticide container was very less. Hence intervention of the government organizations viz., Department of Horticulture, Krishi Vigyan Kendra and ICAR institutes is highly essential to educate the farmers on safe handling of pesticides, organic and natural farming systems to overcome food safety issues.','-','Anitha R., Vinothkumar Bojan, L. Rajendran, P.S. Shanmugam, A. Suganthi, G. Arulkumar, E. Madhu Sudhanan, P. Karthik, V. Muralitharan, S.S. Ilango and P. Thangachamy (2023). Study on Pesticide usage Pattern in Carrot Agroecosystem at Temperate Regions of Tamil Nadu. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 15(8a): 469-472.'),(7335,'165','Occurrence of Malassezia dermatitis in Dogs at Jabalpur (M.P.)','Saindla Rakesh, Kabita Roy, Ashish Kumar Soni, Devendra Gupta, Amita Tiwari, Brejesh Singh, Shashi Pradhan, Salil Kumar Pathak, Bhoopendra Singh Mahor and Ithrineni Karthik ','Occurrence-of-Malassezia-dermatitis-in-Dogs-at-Jabalpur-(M.P.)-Saindla-Rakesh-1.pdf','',1,'Malassezia dermatitis is a common clinical disorder in dogs caused by the yeast, Malassezia pachydermatis, clinically characterized by intense pruritus, alopecia, hyperpigmentation, lichenification, and visibly increased skin thickness. As Malassezia dermatitis mimics many other pruritic dermatoses, its diagnosis particularly the differential diagnosis of the disease is quite challenging. A total of 2974 dogs presented to VCC and different private clinics in and around Jabalpur during the period of six months, from April 2022 to September 2022 were screened for Malassezia dermatitis. Of these, 736 dogs (24.75%) demonstrated clinical signs indicative of Malassezia dermatitis and were subjected to cytological examination for confirmation. Therefore, 106 dogs (14.40%) were found afflicted with Malassezia dermatitis. The overall occurrence of dermatological disorders in dogs in and around Jabalpur was 24.75 per cent while, the overall occurrence of Malassezia dermatitis was 3.56 per cent and among the suspected dogs, the occurrence was 14.40 per cent. Significantly a higher occurrence was noted in dogs of 6 to 9 years (32.26%) followed by 3 to 6 years (19.58%). Among different breeds, Labrador Retriever showed the highest occurrence (22.54%) followed by pugs (20.37%) while gender wise it was reported higher in females (17.49%) than males (12.68%). Further, the occurrence was observed significantly higher in the month of May (20.39%) followed by April (19.78%).','Malassezia dermatitis, Jabalpur, cytological examination, occurrence, dogs','The overall occurrence of Malassezia dermatitis in the dog population was 3.56%. However, 14.40% of occurrence was reported among dogs suspected of Malassezia dermatitis. Age-related occurrence was substantially greater in dogs aged 6 to 9 years (32.26%), breed wise occurrence was significantly higher in Labrador Retrievers (22.54%), and there was no significant difference in gender wise occurrence of Malassezia dermatitis in dogs. Further, the occurrence was observed significantly highest in the month of May (20.39%).','-','Saindla Rakesh, Kabita Roy, Ashish Kumar Soni, Devendra Gupta, Amita Tiwari, Brejesh Singh, Shashi Pradhan, Salil Kumar Pathak, Bhoopendra Singh Mahor and Ithrineni Karthik (2023). Occurrence of Malassezia dermatitis in Dogs at Jabalpur (M.P.). Biological Forum – An International Journal, 15(9): 01-05.'),(7336,'165','Influence of different Treatment and Patch Geometry on Recovery of Bark in North Eastern Terminalia arjuna Linn. f','Chethan B.L., Dattappa, Maheshnaik B.L. and Prajwal M.B. ','Influence-of-different-Treatment-and-Patch-Geometry-on-Recovery-of-Bark-in-North-Eastern-Terminalia-arjuna-Linn.-f-Dattappa-2.pdf','',1,'The current research aimed to investigate the impact of various treatments and patch geometries on bark recovery in Terminalia arjuna. The study was conducted in an openly situated plantation of Terminalia arjuna standing trees within the Forest Product and Utilisation Department at the College of Horticulture and Forestry in Pasighat, Arunachal Pradesh. Bark extraction was performed on equal-sized trees using two different patch sizes, and various treatments were applied to promote faster bark regeneration. After three months, the healing properties of the bark were assessed as a percentage of recovered bark. The findings of the study revealed that among the different treatments, Bordeaux paste resulted in the highest bark regeneration (39.02%), followed by Bordeaux paste with plastic (36.66%) and Neem Seed Kernel Extract paste (33.39%). These treatments exhibited significantly higher bark recovery compared to the other treatments. Conversely, the control group showed the least bark regeneration (20.61%). Regarding patch geometry, there was minimal variation observed, with narrow strips (P2) demonstrating slightly higher bark recovery (39.02%) compared to broader strips (36.12%). The research provides valuable insights into suitable treatments and harvesting techniques for sustainable bark extraction in Terminalia arjuna in the North-Eastern region.','Narrow strips, Neem Seed Kernel Extract (NSKE), Patch geometry, Bark recovery','The research findings revealed a variation in bark recovery concerning patch geometry. On average, Terminalia arjuna exhibited higher bark recovery in the narrow patch compared to the broad patch when considering all treatments together. Notably, after a 3-month period, treatment with Bordeaux paste demonstrated significantly higher bark regeneration compared to the other treatments. Consequently, it can be recommended that the combination of Bordeaux paste treatment and narrow patches be considered for achieving enhanced bark regeneration in the context of harvesting commercial bark-yielding tree species.','-','Chethan B.L., Dattappa, Maheshnaik B.L. and Prajwal M.B. (2023). Influence of different Treatment and Patch Geometry on Recovery of Bark in North Eastern Terminalia arjuna Linn. f. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 15(9): 06-12.'),(7337,'165','Consumption of Dairy-based functional Foods influenced by Socio Economic Conditions: Study in Ranchi City','Annie Kerketta, Biswajit Sen, Udita Chaudhary and Ajay Verma','Consumption-of-Dairy-based-functional-Foods-influenced-by-Socio-Economic-Conditions-Study-in-Ranchi-City-Ajay-Verma-3.pdf','',1,'Functional dairy based foods can be defined as foods containing significant levels of biologically active components that provide specific health benefits besides the traditional nutrients. The top sources of information for dairy-based functional food among consumers in Ranchi city were TV advertisements (33%) and word-of-mouth (25%). Most of probiotic drinks were consumed occasionally as (39%) was observed nearly less than 3 times a month, while around 38% of respondents consumed fortified milk on a daily basis. Majority of the consumers had preferred retail shops to purchase the fortified milk (58%) and supermarkets for the purchase of the probiotic drinks (53%). The supermarkets were least preferred by consumers for the fortified milk (2%) while milk parlours observed least masses of consumers for the probiotic drinks (7%). The monthly average consumption of fortified milk for per capita was only 8.6 litres, with an expenditure of `518.8, while the corresponding figures for the probiotic drink was 949.4 ml, with an expenditure of `270. It was also found that the Income, education, and occupation had positively influenced the monthly per capita consumption expenditure of probiotic drinks and fortified milk, while age had significant negative impact on probiotic and food habits had significant negative impact of fortified milk. Policy makers should ensure the smooth availability of the functional dairy based products in the state.','Functional dairy based food, probiotic drinks, fortified milk, dietary habits','The rising awareness of the consumers towards the health benefits of food has resulted in the development of the so-called functional foods. These added value products which refer to prevention and/or therapeutic effects of food beyond its nutritional value are especially useful for health improvement and reduction of medical care costs. The combination between health and nutrition and its potential to improve the quality of life has become one of the key attention points of consumers who are aware of and are seeking nutritional solutions to their health concerns. Nearly 79% of the respondents were aware the additional health benefits of fortified milk whereas 21% were unaware whereas for probiotic drink, 86% of the respondents were aware and 14% were unaware. The most preferred source of information for dairy-based function foods was electronic television advertisements followed by friends and relatives. The probiotic drinks were consumed occasionally as compared to the fortified milk consumed on a daily basis. The majority of the consumers had preferred retail shops to purchase the fortified milk and supermarkets for the purchase of the probiotic drinks. The monthly average consumption of fortified milk for per capita was only 8.6 litres, with an expenditure of `518.8, while the corresponding figures for the probiotic drink was 949.4 ml, with an expenditure of `270. It was also found that the Income, education, and occupation had positively influenced the monthly per capita consumption expenditure of probiotic drinks and fortified milk, while age had significant negative impact on probiotic and food habits had significant negative impact of fortified milk. ','-','Annie Kerketta, Biswajit Sen, Udita Chaudhary and Ajay Verma (2023). Consumption of Dairy-based functional Foods influenced by Socio Economic Conditions: Study in Ranchi City. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 15(9): 13-18.'),(7338,'164','Precision Farming in Commercial Floriculture: A Review','P.M. Hasna, M. Rafeekher and S.J. Anaswara ','Precision-Farming-in-Commercial-Floriculture-A-Review-PM-Hasna-77.pdf','',1,'Precision agriculture encompasses a holistic approach aimed at maximizing production. By incorporating crucial components such as information, technology, and management, precision agriculture offers the potential to enhance production efficiency, elevate product quality, optimize plant chemical utilization, conserve energy, and safeguard the environment. Environmental, technical, labour, economic and marketing related constraints are some of the major obstacles in flourishing the floriculture industry in India. It is important to be prepared for technological innovations to modernize out dated farming methods and establish environment friendly crop production systems. Precision farming should be regarded as a research path rather than a final destination. This is one of the technology-oriented programmes and required great skill. Precision farming in commercial floriculture offers optimized resource management, data- driven decision making, automation and robotics. Despite its numerous benefits, it also comes with several challenges including culture and perception of users, limited access to technology, small operational holdings etc. At present much research is needed to integrate different technologies for precision farming in commercial floriculture in Indian farming situation.','Precision Agriculture, Technology, Automation, Challenges, Commercial Floriculture','Precision farming involves the strategic implementation of appropriate actions in specific locations and at optimal timings. This approach aims to enhance production efficiency, elevate product quality, optimize the utilization of crop chemicals, conserve energy, and safeguard the environment through the utilization of advanced technologies. This is one of the technology-oriented programmes and required great skill. At present much research is needed to integrate different technologies for precision farming in commercial floriculture in Indian farming situation.','-','P.M. Hasna, M. Rafeekher and S.J. Anaswara (2023). Precision Farming in Commercial Floriculture: A Review. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 15(8a): 473-479.'),(7339,'164','Farmers’ Perception on Importance of Pollinators and Pollination in \r\nKarnataka State\r\n','Marepally Udaya Sindhu and Y.N. Shivalingaiah','Farmers-Perception-on-Importance-of-Pollinators-and-Pollination-in-Karnataka-state-Marepally-Udaya-Sindhu-78.pdf','',1,' The study was conducted in Kolar and Chikkaballapura districts of Karnataka state during 2020-2021 to analyse the perception level of farmers on importance of pollinators and pollination. A total of 120 (60 small and 60 big) crop growers were selected by using simple random sampling technique from twelve villages from two districts. Personal interview method was used to collect data and appropriate statistical tools were applied to analyse the data. Among small farmers, it is observed that majority of the farmers perceived that only honey bees are the beneficial insects useful for the pollination activity with (Rank I) followed by observation of reduced crop yield due to non visit of pollinators (Rank II).In case of big farmers, perception towards extension training programmes would change the view of farmers on importance of pollination and conservation of pollinators was (Rank I) along with community driven pollinator monitoring for efficient management of pollinators. Pollinator population decline (Rank II). The findings revealed that more than two-fifth (43.33 %) of farmers were with good perception level followed by poor (31.67 %) and better (25.00 %). Ex-post facto research methodology was used to conduct the current study, making it unable to overcome respondents\' memory bias. The study is restricted to just two districts in the state of Karnataka as a result of the discovery that it has its own time and resource limitations. However, a lot of thought and attention went into it to make this study as complete, scientific, and objective as possible. By educating farmers about their barriers to pollinator conservation and the solutions presented to overcome those barriers, the insights gained by this study will aid in their ecological and socioeconomic betterment. By educating farmers about their barriers to pollinator conservation and the solutions presented to overcome those barriers, the insights gained by this study will aid in their ecological and socioeconomic betterment.','Pollinators, Pollination, Farmers, Perception','The study was undertaken to know the perception level of farmers on importance of pollinators and pollination in Kolar and Chikkballapur district of Karnataka. Though the districts have distinct crop diversification, the results suggest that there is still lot of scope for improvement through conservation of pollinators. Government has a obligation to reinforce the concerned organisations to conduct capacity building programmes on regular basis to the farmers on significance of conserving pollinators, their services provided to the nature and the crop production. There is a need to educate the farmers about importance of pollination services and conservation of pollinators through practices like crop rotation, IPM, educating farmers to take up disease tolerant varieties like BRG-5 in redgram (wilt tolerant), BSH-53 in sunflower (tolerant to powdery mildew), seed treatment with bioagents like Trichoderma can reduce the disease incidence in turn results in more yield and conservation of pollinators.','-','Marepally Udaya Sindhu and Y.N. Shivalingaiah (2023). Farmers’s Perception on Importance of Pollinators and Pollination in Karnataka State. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 15(8a): 480-487.'),(7340,'163','Impact of Pesticides on Soil Health-a Comparative Study conducted on Conventional and Organic Tea Gardens of Dooars Region, West Bengal','Rahul Kumar Mishra, Soumya Shukla and Md. Abdullah Khan','Impact-of-Pesticides-on-Soil-Health-a-Comparative-Study-conducted-on-Conventional-and-Organic-Tea-Gardens-of-Dooars-Region,-West-Bengal-Soumya-Shukla-76.pdf','',1,'Tea, world’s second most popular beverage is drunk for its numerous health benefits and refreshment. Tea grows well in warm humid climate with an annual rainfall of more than 115 cm. The environmental conditions such as high relative humidity and temperature above 35˚C is favourable for disease development and to control them synthetic pesticides are used extensively. Dooars – Terai regions of North Bengal which contributes 21% of India’s total tea production has background of highest pesticide use in the country. Pesticide residues have many adverse effects on soil health and even on human health. Present study aims to study the impacts of these pesticides on the beneficial soil microflora and physico-chemical properties of soil of both conventional and organic tea gardens. This study has been conducted in the Western Dooars region of North Bengal. Samples of two different age groups (10 years and 40 years old tea gardens) were collected from 7 tea estates (five conventional and two organic) from Jalpaiguri and Kalimpong districts and were analyzed. The samples were collected during the December 2022 to January 2023. For physico-chemical properties pH, Total Organic Carbon, Available nitrogen, phosphorus, and potassium were studied. For microflora total bacteria, total fungus, Actinomycetes, Azospirillum sp., Pseudomonas, Micrococcus, Azotobacter sp., etc. were studied. Serial dilution and plate count method was used to study the microflora whereas physico-chemical properties were studied by their respective methods. The results revealed almost all conventional soil samples have less microbial counts than the soil samples taken from organic tea gardens. Some conventional soil has high content of available Nitrogen, available Phosphorus but they have less N2 fixing bacteria, phosphate solubilizing microorganisms which is a matter of concern. Pesticides do not have any negative impact on the Actinomycetes and Azotobacter and their CFU count in both the sample soil types were similar. Pesticide alters the pH of the soil which leads to changes in the solubility of macronutrients and micronutrients. For proper productivity and sustainability of soil ecosystem tea producers should focus more on biopesticides and other alternatives. ','Pesticides, Microflora, Sustainability, Ecosystem, Health','The pH of all the soil samples is found to be acidic but some tea estates have pH of around 6 and more which is a matter of concern as high pH reduces the solubility of macronutrients as well as micronutrients. Pesticides have no side effect on Azospirillum sp. (free living N2 fixing bacteria), rather they degrade the pesticide to some extent and use it as a source of energy. Although some conventional tea gardens have medium to high amount of Phosphorus but the CFU of Phosphate solubilizing bacteria and Phosphate solubilizing fungus is low which may lead to series adverse impacts in the productivity as well as soil health. Organic Tea Garden’s soil has more total bacteria than Conventional tea garden’s soil. The number of Total Bacteria is found to be more in 40 years old plantations than 10 years old plantation. In comparison with some conventional tea gardens, organic tea gardens with relatively high fungus and nitrogen-fixing bacterial populations have slightly lower available nitrogen levels. There is cause for worry since some conventional tea gardens with a lot of readily accessible nitrogen do not have many free-living N2 fixing bacteria. The use of biological pest control agents (natural enemies of insect pests), biopesticides should be done in order to minimize these side effects and ensure proper productivity, quality and sustainability of tea ecosystem. ','-','Rahul Kumar Mishra, Soumya Shukla and Md. Abdullah Khan (2023). Impact of Pesticides on Soil Health-a Comparative Study conducted on Conventional and Organic Tea Gardens of Dooars Region, West Bengal. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 15(5a): 473-480.'),(7341,'156','Silver Nanoparticles synthesized from Bark extract of Morinda citrifolia and Investigated their Antibacterial and Anticancer activity','Atram S.G., Sheikh R.S., Adsare A.D. and Deshmukh B.R.','Silver-Nanoparticles-synthesized-from-Bark-extract-of-Morinda-citrifolia-and-Investigated-their-Antibacterial-and-Anticancer-activity-Shailesh-G-Atram-144.pdf','',1,' The plant situated in rare area for the biosynthesis of silver nanoparticles, especially it shows great efficiency in biological activity. Due of its eco-friendly and quick synthesis processes, plant-mediated nanoparticle synthesis is currently gaining significant attention. The utilization of Morinda citrifolia bark aqueous extract is the main focus of the current investigation. in the process of turning aqueous silver nitrate into silver nanoparticles (AgNPs). An examination of the extract\'s phytochemistry suggests its potential as medicine. Protein and ascorbic acid levels in the produced silver nanoparticles (AgNPs) were also examined. By using FT-IR and UV-visible spectroscopy, the AgNPs were identified. SEM pictures showed the presence of different sizes and forms. In this study, we also looked at the antibacterial and anticancer properties of AgNPs produced sustainably. The goal of the current study was to create and describe silver nanoparticles.','Morinda citrifolia, Bark extract, AgNPs, Antimicrobial, Anticancer, Nanotechnology','It has been proven that Morinda citrifolia bark extract can be used to create silver nanoparticles. The purpose of this inquiry is to assess how well the method for creating AgNPs from Morinda citrifolia works. This approach is straight forward, affordable, non-toxic, and effective. Nanoparticles produced by medicinal plants exhibit more benefit because the medicinally advantageous active proteins in the plants may bind to the surface of the nanoparticles and reduce the silver ions to silver nanoparticles. They might enhance the silver nanoparticles\' antibacterial properties. It has been proven that extract from the bark of Morinda citrifolia can be used to create silver nanoparticles. This investigation\'s goal is to assess how well Morinda cirrifolia is used in the process of creating AgNPs. This process is easy, affordable, non-toxic, and effective. Silver nanoparticles produced by medicinal plants have more benefits and may increase the antimicrobial activity of silver nanoparticles because the medicinally advantageous active biomolecules present in plants may bind to the surface of the nanoparticles and reduce the silver ions to silver nanoparticles.','-','Atram S.G., Sheikh R.S., Adsare A.D. and Deshmukh B.R. (2023). Silver Nanoparticles synthesized from Bark extract of Morinda citrifolia and Investigated their Antibacterial and Anticancer activity. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 15(4): 865-869.'),(7342,'163','Investigations in Transdermal Delivery of Lacidipine','Lalan M.S., Patel F.T., Patel R.D., Chauhan P., Gamit R. and Patel B.K. ','Investigations-in-Transdermal-Delivery-of-Lacidipine-Lalan-MS-77.pdf','',1,'Lacidipine is a calcium channel blocker which exhibits limited oral bioavailability. This study sought to formulate and assess lacidipine-loaded bigels for hypertension management by transdermal administration, resulting in lower doses, controlled drug delivery and improved patient compliance. Box-Behnken design was employed to optimize bigels by studying the effect of independent variables i.e. organogelator concentration, hydrogelator concentration, mixing proportion of Hydrogel:Organogel on dependent variables viscosity, time for 80% drug release. Bigels were characterized for physical appearance, pH, spreadability, extrudability, gel sol transition temperature, drug content, in vitro and ex vivo skin permeation, stability. Compatibility studies showed drug’s compatibility with excipients. Carbopol 940, Span 60 were used as hydrogelator, organogelator respectively and mixing proportion of hydrogel:organogel was 1:1. Statistical model indicated that higher amount of hydrogelator and organogelator increased viscosity is increased. The higher proportion of hydrogel in bigel reduced the time for 80% drug release decreased. Optimized formula was found to show 86% drug release in 8 hours and stable in the accelerated stability study. Thus the novel formulation can be a commercially viable dosage form for efficient management of hypertension.','lacidipine, bigel, hydrogel, organogel, transdermal, hypertension','Bigel of the antihypertensive drug lacidipine was formulated by dispersion of hydrogel and drug loaded organogel. The successful formulation was indicated by absence of phase separation and desirable consistency. The microstructure revealed uniform globular dispersion. Box Behnken design aided in optimization of the formulation’s critical independent variables on the basis of desirable responses. Drug release studies through the dialysis membrane and ex vivo skin permeation suggested sustained drug release for a duration of 8 hours. The prepared formulation displayed desirable physiochemical characteristics in terms of pH, gel-sol transition, spreadability and stability in accelerated studies. The Bigel is a patient friendly dosage form for transdermal drug delivery that can be scaled up easily during large scale manufacturing.','-','Lalan M.S., Patel F.T., Patel R.D., Chauhan P., Gamit R. and Patel B.K. (2023). Investigations in Transdermal Delivery of Lacidipine. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 15(5a): 481-491.'),(7343,'164','Longevity of Dissipation of Seed Dormancy in Paddy varieties','Vishwanath K., Mahadevu P., Basavaraja B. and Nagaraj Hullur ','Longevity-of-Dissipation-of-Seed-Dormancy-in-Paddy-varieties-Nagaraj-Hullur-79.pdf','',1,'A study was conducted to study longevity of dissipation pattern of seed dormancy in 27 paddy varieties. Misinterpretation of germination results can lead to inaccurate conclusions about the viability and potential of plant seeds, affecting agricultural practices. Dormancy period and dissipation in paddy vary with the varieties BR-2655 (24 days), Thanu (3 days), IR-30864 (24 days), Jaya (30 days), Jyothi (48 days), Kadamba (36 days), IR-64 (21 days), MTU.1001 (21 days), MTU-1010 (9 days), Rasi (27 days), BPT 5204 (9 days), JGL 1798 (3 days), KCP-1 (45 days), Mandya Vijaya (9 days), Gangavathi sona (6 days), MAS 9461 (6 days), CTH-3 (24 days), Vikas (24 days), Mangala (18 days), Tella Hamsa (24 days), IR-20 (18 days), CTH-1 (21 days), KRH-2 (21 days), Thunga (30 days), KMR-3R (54 days), KMP-175 (12 days) and IET7575 (24 days) exhibited varied degree of seed dissipation periods. KMR-3R exhibited maximum dormancy period (54 days) and was least (3 days) in JGL 1798. Paddy hybrid KRH-2 and KRH-4 exhibited dormancy for 21 and 15 days respectively. This data could be utilized for seed certification during field inspection to inspect volunteer plant and seed testing to avoid misinterpretation of germination results.','Dissipation, Seed Dormancy, Paddy, viability, longevity','Seed dormancy of rice varieties at different intervals after harvest varied significantly. This data could be used for seed conditioning and seed release to market in paddy varieties. ','-','Vishwanath K., Mahadevu P., Basavaraja B. and Nagaraj Hullur (2023). Longevity of Dissipation of Seed Dormancy in Paddy varieties. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 15(8a): 488-491.'),(7344,'165','A New Carrier based Bioformulation: Cordyceps militaris L. (Link)','Saranya S., Priya John and S.H. Paladiya','A-New-Carrier-based-Bioformulation-Cordyceps-militaris-L.-(Link)-Saranya-S-4.pdf','',1,'Cordyceps militaris is an entomopathogenic ascomycetous mushroom which is recently gaining attention as a biocontrol agent against plant pests and diseases. But there are no formulations of this biocontrol agent is available in market till date. So, the present study evaluated four different formulations of C. militaris using various carrier materials viz., talc, vermiculite-wheat bran, pesta and alginate. The ability of C. militaris to sustain over a storage period of 90 days was evaluated by counting the spores at 15 days interval starting from 15 days after inoculation. It was observed that talc and alginate-based formulations performed well throughout the study by sustaining the maximum number of spores even up to 90 days after storage with a spore reduction of 67.70% and 58.33%, respectively at 90 days after storage. Further, the cost of production of each formulation was calculated and talc-based formulation was found to be the best and cost effective as compared to others with an approximate cost of production of Rs.456.00/kg. ','Cordyceps militaris, carrier, talc, vermiculite-wheat bran, pesta, alginate','From the current investigations, it can be clearly observed that the talc-based formulation and alginate-based formulation performed well at all the days of observation and had a fairly good spore count even at 90 days after inoculation. However, talc-based formulation had a vantage over alginate-based formulation by having a less production cost. ','-','Saranya S., Priya John and S.H. Paladiya (2023). A New Carrier based Bioformulation: Cordyceps militaris L. (Link). Biological Forum – An International Journal, 15(9): 19-23.'),(7345,'163','Factorial Design Formulation Optimization and in vitro characterization of Colon Targeted Delivery System of Azathioprine','Shikha Jakhotiya and Gajendra Singh Rathore','Factorial-Design-Formulation-Optimization-and-in-vitro-characterization-of-Colon-Targeted-Delivery-System-of-Azathioprine-Shikha-Jakhotiya-78.pdf','',1,'Colon-targeted drug delivery systems are designed to deliver medications specifically to the colon, which can be useful for the treatment of various gastrointestinal disorders. The current work\'s goal is to develop and optimise an Azathioprine colon focused delivery device. Azathioprine (150g) was manufactured as separate wet masses using a 1:1 ratio of the drug to the polymer in order to create the multiparticulate formulation. As part of the experimental process, 125g of azathioprine, coupled with chitosan and guar gum, were used. Using a standard coating pan and polymethacrylate solutions (namely, Eudragit L100 and Eudragit S100 at concentrations of 10-15% (w/w) each), enteric coating was carried out. Multiparticulate C4 from the optimised batch was placed inside a capsule. The oral colon administration system is a cutting-edge method for treating various diseases. Azathioprine\'s enhanced colon drug delivery mechanism may be employed for future testing with a view to clinical usage.','Formulation, Optimization, Azathioprine','Colon drug delivery system of Azathioprine was successfully prepared and 23 factorial design model was employed to optimize the formulation. The in-vitro drug release of C4 was best explained by the k-peppas equation, which had highest linearity R2 values at 0.9979, 0.9904, and 0.9966. This was followed by the Higuchi equation, which had R2 values at 0.9944, 0.9833, and 0.9850, and First order R2 values at 0.9811, 0.9821, and 0.9852 correspondingly. Then the optimized formulation C4 is suggested for further evaluation.','-','Shikha Jakhotiya and Gajendra Singh Rathore (2023). Factorial Design Formulation Optimization and in vitro characterization of Colon Targeted Delivery System of Azathioprine. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 15(5a): 492-505.'),(7346,'164','Correlation Studies in Post-rainy Sorghum (Sorghum bicolor L. Moench) Genotypes against Moisture Stress Tolerance','Tayade N.R., Ghorade R.B., Kalpande V.V., Akhare A.A. and Rathod T.H.','Correlation-Studies-in-Post-rainy-Sorghum-(Sorghum-bicolor-L.-Moench)-Genotypes-against-Moisture-Stress-Tolerance-Tayade-NR-80.pdf','',1,'In present investigation, help to exploit genotypic and phenotypic correlation for sorghum grain yield, its contributing credits and drought tolerance mechanism using 45 (36 hybrids + 9 parents) genotypes were assessed by randomized block design with three replicas. Terminal drought (post-flowering) occurrence has been the most detrimental condition which is mainly limiting the rabi sorghum production as well as productivity. Refinement of post rainy sorghum varieties through plant breeding has been steady but could be hastened if the drought scenario in the cultivated regions were understood better. The current experiment exposed that, morpho-physiological traits viz., leaf chlorophyll content index, stay green score green leaf area are favourably significant and found associated with economic yield and straw yield. Consequently, mentioned attributes should selected for moisture stress tolerance in post rainy sorghum. Hence the resulted information can assist in capitalizing the search for moisture stress adaptive traits and improvement practices to moisture stress situations and thus strengthen the development in post rainy sorghum through trait specific association.','Sorghum, Correlation, Stay green, Moisture stress, green leaf area','This investigated study confirmed that the simple correlation coefficients of leaf chlorophyll content index with relative water content, green leaf area, fodder yield, and grain yield were found significant and in positive magnitude. This revealed that the selection criteria focusing for leaf area would, thus, result in the increased chlorophyll content, relative water content, and can hence introduced delayed senescence by the stay green mechanism. The results also pointed that the influence of the external factors on these traits is not much more as there is absence of variation between phenotypic and genotypic correlations coefficients of these characters. Therefore, attention should be drawn towards reflected traits for drought tolerance at the time of deciding a breeding strategy for drought tolerance with higher grain yield.','-','Tayade N.R., Ghorade R.B., Kalpande V.V., Akhare A.A. and Rathod T.H. (2023). Correlation Studies in Post-rainy Sorghum (Sorghum bicolor L. Moench) Genotypes against Moisture Stress Tolerance. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 15(8a): 492-495.'),(7347,'164','Impact of Conservation Agricultural Practices on Depth-wise Distribution of Soil Physico- chemical Attributes and available Soil Nutrients under Cotton- Maize- sesbania Cropping System','Knight Nthebere, T. Ram Prakash, G. Jayasree, B. Padmaja, A. Meena and P.C. Latha ','Impact-of-Conservation-Agricultural-Practices-on-Depth-wise-Distribution-of-Soil-Physico--chemical-Attributes-and-available-Soil-Nutrients-under-Cotton--Maize--sesbania-Cropping-System-Knight-Ntheber-81.pdf','',1,'Industrial agriculture employed by the majority of the farmers as to increase the level of crop production had depleted soil nutrients required to boost plant nutrition. The farmers in Southern Telangana region follow conventional cereal- based production which removes large quantities of the soil nutrients rendering the soil infertile thereby posing the main challenge on soil health enhancement. A transition into conservation agriculture (CA) is the best strategy to save the soil resource and sustain productivity. This study is aimed to evaluate the impact of tillage and weed management on soil physico-chemical properties and soil nutrients distribution in two different depths after harvest of maize (after third year) in CA. Three tillages (main treatments); T1: conventional – conventional – fallow, T2: conventional – zero – zero and T3: triple zero + residue retention and weed management (sub-treatments): herbicides (W1 and W2), W3: IWM and W4: unweeded were laid in split-plot design. soil samples collected depth-wise (0–15, 15–30cm) post-harvest of maize were analysed for pH, EC, N, P, K and soil organic carbon (SOC) by following the standard protocols. The salient findings had indicated higher SOC (64.6%), N (21.37%), P (17.00%), K (11.89%), EC (8.89%) and lower pH (1.56%) in 0 –15 cm soil depth under conservation tillage (T3) over T1. All soil properties decreased with increase in depth. Weed management did not significantly affect these soil physico-chemical and soil nutrient’s parameters. These results signify conservation tillage (T3) as the prime management practices to enhance and maintain the soil nutrients, hence the solution for preservation of overall soil properties essential for soil quality improvement in agro-ecosystem. ','Soil quality, Soil health, Conservation agriculture, Soil properties, Depth-wise, Soil organic carbon','Conservation tillage (T3) enhanced the SOC, soil nutrients status (NPK) at 0 – 15 cm. Overall, soil parameters declined with increase in profile depth indicating less distribution at lower soil depth. Significantly higher SOC (64.6% and 25.47%) was recorded under conservation tillage (T3) over the initial value and farmers practice (T1) respectively at soil surface which had promoted overall soil quality properties. Thus, this present field experiment offers a decisive knowledge on the impact of tillage practices and weed management strategies on evaluating soil nutrient status variation with soil depth and on identifying the best management practices to be advocated for maintenance of soil quality and sustainable crop production under cotton – maize – Sesbania rotation systems. ','-','Knight Nthebere, T. Ram Prakash, G. Jayasree, B. Padmaja, A. Meena and P.C. Latha (2023). Impact of Conservation Agricultural Practices on Depth-wise Distribution of Soil Physico- chemical Attributes and available Soil Nutrients under Cotton- Maize- sesbania Cropping System. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 15(8a): 496-502.'),(7348,'158','First Occurrence Report of Rare Leucistic Spectacled Cobra, Naja naja (Linnaeus 1758) In Maharashtra India','Vivek Bawankule, Ashish Walthare, Sudhir Bhandarkar','4_JNBR_12_1_2023.pdf','',1,'-','-','-','-','-'),(7349,'158','First Report of the Rare Banded Bay Cuckoo, Cacomantis sonneratii (Latham, 1790) in Navegaon National Park of NNTR Gondia Maharashtra, India','Gopal Paliwal1, Sudhir Bhandarkar2*','5_JNBR_12_1_2023.pdf','',1,'-','-','-','-','-'),(7350,'163','Effect of different Types of Plastic Mulches on Growth and Yield of Turmeric (Curcuma longa. L.)','P. Srinivas and B. Mahender','Effect-of-different-Types-of-Plastic-Mulches-on-Growth-and-Yield-of-Turmeric-(Curcuma-longa.-L.)-P-Srinivas-79.pdf','',1,'The experiment has been taken up at Turmeric research station, Kammarpally for the four consecutive years from 2019-20 to 2022-23 to assess the effect of different plastic mulches on growth and yield of turmeric under different plastic mulch conditions. Turmeric crop is severely invaded with weeds during initial stages. Prolonged weed free period is needed for good crop stand and better plant growth. Labour availability during critical weed control stages of crop trigger the pressure on weed management and turmeric crop also sensitive to soil moisture throughout its crop period. Plastic mulching is one of the best alternates to control the weeds and improve the water use efficiency. In this trial, different plastic mulches black plastic mulch 25 microns and 30 microns, gray plastic mulch with 25 microns and 30 microns have been taken as plastic mulching material and without any plastic mulching was taken as control. The experimentation was done in a randomized block design and replicated four times. The results enunciated that the plants with black plastic mulch with 30 microns thickness recorded maximum mean fresh rhizome yield (42.99 t/ha) followed by black plastic mulch with 25 microns thickness (37.03 t/ha) as compared to other mulches and control (Without mulching). ','Turmeric, mulching, fresh rhizome yield, plant height, black plastic mulch','In accordance with the results attained under present study and possible reasons for the higher growth and yield having discussed, it can be concluded that higher growth characters and higher turmeric fresh rhizome yield was obtained under mulching of turmeric crop with black plastic mulch of 30 microns followed by black mulching of 25 microns. It also suppresses with weed growth and control the soil run off due to the heavy rains to greater extent.','-','P. Srinivas and B. Mahender (2023). Effect of different Types of Plastic Mulches on Growth and Yield of Turmeric (Curcuma longa. L.). Biological Forum – An International Journal, 15(5a): 506-509.'),(7351,'164','Problems of Sericulture practices in Dima Hasao district of Assam','Rastra Nunisa, Chandan Hazarika, Monimala Saikia, Udeshna Talukdar and Hemanta Saikia ','Problems-of-Sericulture-practices-in-Dima-Hasao-district-of-Assam-Rastra-Nunisa-82.pdf','',1,'This study focuses on the sericulture practices in Dima Hasao district, with the primary goal of identifying and analyzing the challenges faced by the sericulture farmers at various stages of the sericulture process. Primary data was collected by conducting a comprehensive survey involving sericulture farmers and analyzed using the Garret ranking technique. The research sheds light on the intensity and significance of the issues encountered in cocoon production, rearing, processing, weaving, marketing, and trading.\r\nShortage of feeds was the most important problem faced by the rearers, with highest Garrett value, who were interested to engage in cocoon production while unavailability of equipments was the major problem during silk processing activities. On the other hand, price fluctuation of cocoons was the chief marketing problem faced by the farmers. Along with these problems, lack of healthy seeds and lack of information etc. were some main constraints encountered during cocoon production. Financial problems and unavailability of proper market structure etc. were also identified to be main problems in processing sector. Middlemen interference, marketing problem etc. were also associated in sericulture market channels.\r\n','Cocoon production, Dima Hasao, Garret ranking technique, Organized market, Sericulture','The study conducted in the region has identified and ranked several critical problems faced by the farmers involved in production, processing, and marketing. The findings reveal that shortage of feeds for silkworms emerged as the most significant challenge faced by rearers, impacting their engagement in rearing activities. For spinners and reelers, the main issue identified was the unavailability of modern equipment, limiting their productivity and efficiency. In the marketing sector, the most pressing problem was the fluctuation in cocoon prices, causing uncertainty and instability for the sericulturists. \r\nBy addressing these problems collectively, the sericulture sector can become more resilient, competitive, and economically viable for the district. Collaboration between the government, researchers, industry players, and local communities is essential to implement effective solutions and ensure a prosperous future for the sericulture sector in the region. Overall, the success of the sericulture sector in Dima Hasao district requires persistent cooperation and collaboration among various stakeholders, including officers, artisans, traders, rearers, and weavers. With proper support and implementation of the recommended interventions, sericulture can become a catalyst for rural development and generate employment and income opportunities in the region.\r\n','-','Rastra Nunisa, Chandan Hazarika, Monimala Saikia, Udeshna Talukdar and Hemanta Saikia (2023). Problems of Sericulture practices in Dima Hasao district of Assam. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 15(8a): 503-506.'),(7352,'163','Formulation and Development of Sustained Release Oral Drug Delivery System Comprising Naproxen Sodium Microspheres','Pagar Madhumanjiri K., Gangurde Avinash B., Pagar Rahul Y. and Bairagi Vinod A.','Formulation-and-Development-of-Sustained-Release-Oral-Drug-Delivery-System-Comprising-Naproxen-Sodium-Microspheres-Pawar-Madhumaniri-80.pdf','',1,'Designing a sustained release formulation can be complex, as it requires a deep understanding of the drug\'s physicochemical properties, release kinetics, and compatibility with various excipients. Finding the right combination of polymers, fillers, and other excipients to achieve the desired release profile can be challenging. In the present study, naproxen-loaded polymeric microspheres were compressed into naproxen sustained-release tablets. To prevent the GI side effects of the drugs, research aimed to create simple, affordable sustained-release tablets containing microspheres loaded with naproxen. To formulate the microspheres, an O/W emulsification method was used. An analytical method was developed using a UV- spectrophotometer for about 200-400nm of wavelengths. Later for formulation development, qualitative determination of Naproxen and ethyl cellulose was done in different solvents. Evaluation of microspheres prepared was done in 6.8 phosphate buffer by determining drug loading, percentage of yield, drug release study, X-ray diffraction (XRD), scanning electron microscopic (SEM) analysis, Fourier transform infrared (FT-IR), and In vitro dissolution study and the formulation batches F1, F2, F3, F4, F5, and F6, had DR 100 % at 4 h, 8h, 10h, 12h, 14h, and 24h respectively. The tablets were created using the optimized microsphere formulation naproxen. For the characterization of granules, certain parameters like tapped density, bulk density, a range for angle of repose, Hausner ratio, and Compressibility index were determined for all 5 batches B1, B2, B3, B4, and B5. For the characterization of the tablet, certain parameters like weight, thickness, hardness, friability, and DT were determined.','Ethyl cellulose, Microsphere, Naproxen sodium, Oral drug delivery system, Sustained release','An alternate medication strategy is introduced by not only using the pure drug but by formulating naproxen-loaded ethyl cellulose microspheres. This will lead to sustained release and later can be encapsulated in a tablet dosage form. Such tablet dosage form will give drug release up to 24h and ultimately it will reduce the dosing frequency. There might be no need for multiple administration of doses. By O/W emulsification technique, fast disintegrating tablets were made by conversion of microspheres. Later we can successfully make formulations that show reduced dosing frequency which will help to avoid the GI complications associated with the pure drug. The tablets might enhance patient compliance by improving the taste and swallowing ability of pediatric and geriatric patients. There may be less chance of missing the dose. ','-','Pagar Madhumanjiri K., Gangurde Avinash B., Pagar Rahul Y. and Bairagi Vinod A. (2023). Formulation and Development of Sustained Release Oral Drug Delivery System Comprising Naproxen Sodium Microspheres. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 15(5a): 510-520.'),(7353,'165','Synergistic Effect of Phosphatic Fertilizer and Biofertilizers on Soil Enzyme Activity and Yield of Finger Millet (Eleusine coracana L.)','P. Kejiya, B. Vajantha, M.V.S. Naidu and A.V. Nagavani ','Synergistic-Effect-of-Phosphatic-Fertilizer-and-Biofertilizers-on-Soil-Enzyme-Activity-and-Yield-of-Finger-Millet-(Eleusine-coracana-L.)-P-Kejiya-5.pdf','',1,'A field experiment was carried out at the Agricultural Research Station in Perumalapalle, Tirupati, Andhra Pradesh, India, during the kharif season of 2018. The main objective of the experiment was to investigate the effects of phosphorus fertilizer, Phosphorus Solubilizing Bacteria (PSB), and Vesicular Arbuscular Mycorrhiza (VAM) on soil enzyme activity in finger millet. The experiment was structured using a randomized block design, with nine different treatments comprising varying combinations of phosphorus fertilizer, PSB, and VAM. Each treatment was replicated three times, and the study was conducted in sandy loam soil. The investigation involved the collection of soil samples at two key growth stages: flowering and harvest. The analysis focused on assessing soil enzyme activity, specifically targeting acid phosphatase, alkaline phosphatase, and arylsulfatase activities. Additionally, the grain yield was recorded at the harvest stage. The results highlighted the substantial impact of combinedly applying PSB and VAM along with phosphorus fertilizer on both soil enzyme activity and grain yield. Among the diverse treatment options, the combination involving 75% of the recommended dose of phosphorus (RDP) + PSB at 750 ml/ha + VAM at 12.5 kg/ha (T9) showcased the highest acid phosphatase activity during the harvest period. Similarly, the treatment comprising 100% RDP + PSB at 750 ml/ha + VAM at 12.5 kg/ha (T6) exhibited the most elevated alkaline phosphatase activity at both growth stages. Moreover, for arylsulfatase activity during the flowering phase, the treatment sequence of 75% RDP + PSB at 750 ml/ha + VAM at 12.5 kg/ha (T9), followed by 100% RDP + PSB at 750 ml/ha + VAM at 12.5 kg/ha (T6), produced the most pronounced results. In contrast, the absence of phosphorus (T1) led to significantly lower levels of acid and alkaline phosphatase, arylsulfatase activity, and grain yield. Certainly, here\'s a paraphrased version of the sentence. Some of the challenges in this study is potential benefits of applying phosphorus fertilizer along with biofertilizers (PSB and VAM) are a highly effective method for managing phosphorus in finger millet cultivation, with the aim of enhancing plant growth, increasing crop yield and stimulating enzyme activity over application of phosphorus fertilizers alone. Hence it is best option for realizing higher productivity in finger millet.','Enzyme activity, finger millet, grain yield, Phosphorus fertilizer, PSB and VAM','The current study\'s findings lead to the concluded that the combined utilization of 75% RDP + PSB @ 750 ml ha-1 + VAM @ 12.5 kg ha-1 (T9) has demonstrated its superiority in enhancing soil enzyme activity. The highest grain yield was achieved with the application of 100% RDP + PSB @ 750 ml ha-1 + VAM @ 12.5 kg ha-1 (T6), establishing it as the most effective phosphorus management approach compared to the application of phosphorus fertilizer alone.','-','P. Kejiya, B. Vajantha, M.V.S. Naidu and A.V. Nagavani (2023). Synergistic Effect of Phosphatic Fertilizer and Biofertilizers on Soil Enzyme Activity and Yield of Finger Millet (Eleusine coracana L.). Biological Forum – An International Journal, 15(9): 24-27.'),(7354,'165','Studies on per se Performance of Sponge Gourd Genotypes (Luffa cylindrica L.) for Growth and Yield Attributes','Sivabharathy B., V. Kanthaswamy, V. Sundaram, V. Krishnan and M. Manikandan ','Studies-on-per-se-Performance-of-Sponge-Gourd-Genotypes-(Luffa-cylindrica-L.)-for-Growth-and-Yield-Attributes-Sivabharathy-B-6.pdf','',1,'Vegetables are considered as essential one for a well-balanced diet. Karaikal is one of the regions of Union Territory of Puducherry located in the East Coast, almost at the end of the Cauvery Delta Zone. Diversification of cropping as an alternate to paddy is highly recommended for augumenting the farmers income and to sustain farming in this region. However, identification of suitable crop and variety to suit the existing soil and climatic conditions becomes essential. Since sponge gourd is grown in negligible areas despite its tremendous nutritional and diversified utility due to the lack of awareness of this crop and less concerted effort on crop improvement programmes, it was chosen and the present investigation was carried out to study the per se performance of different bitter gourd hybrids in the Coastal condition of Karaikal for various growth and yield attributes. The study materials comprised of 21 different sponge gourd genotypes assembled from various parts of the country and was performed at the Department of Horticulture, Pandit Jawaharlal Nehru College of Agriculture and Research Institute, Karaikal, Puducherry, India. The study revealed the presence of significant differences among the genotypes evaluated for all the growth and yield contributing characters observed. Among the 21 genotypes, Ranking based on per se performance, revealed that the genotype Kashi Sheya was the best among the 21 genotypes evaluated. It recorded better performance 12 characters out of 16 characters. The genotype Pusa Sneha which ranked second excelled in performance for seven characters. The genotype L.C-13 which ranked third exceled in performance for the six characters. The present study suggested that among the 21 sponge gourd genotypes evaluated, the genotype Kashi Shreya was found to be the best for yield and other yield related traits followed by Pusa Sneha and L.C-13. These genotypes can be further utilized in crop improvement programme for yield and other yield related traits in coastal region of Karaikal.','Sponge gourd, genotypes, per se performance, growth and yield attributes','Ranking based on per se performance, revealed that the genotype Kashi Sheya was the best among the 21 genotypes evaluated. It recorded better performance for number of primary branches vine-1 (6.31), number of nodes vine-1 (48.42), node of first staminate flower (2.33), node of first pistillate flower (7.21), days to first staminate flower anthesis (26.01), days to first pistillate flower anthesis (28.82), sex ratio (18.83), fruit length (35.60), individual fruit weight (379.18), number of fruits vine-1 (23.82), total soluble solids (2.84) and fruit yield vine-1 (8.91).\r\nThe genotype Pusa Sneha which ranked second excelled in performance for the traits viz., sex ratio (11.61), number of fruits vine-1 (26.06), number of primary branches vine-1 (5.19), days to first pistillate flower anthesis (27.82), individual fruit weight (349.13), fruit yield vine-1 (23.82) and number of nodes vine -1 (54.04).\r\nThe genotype L.C-13 which ranked third exceled in performance for the traits viz., crude fibre (0.57), node of first staminate flower (2.55), days to first staminate flower anthesis (29.29), number of primary branches vine-1 (4.61), individual fruit weight (338.23), fruit yield vine-1 (5.41).\r\nThe present study suggested that among the 21 sponge gourd genotypes evaluated, the genotype Kashi Shreya was found to be the best for yield and other yield related traits followed by Pusa Sneha and L.C-13. These genotypes can be further utilized in crop improvement programme for yield and other yield related traits in coastal region of Karaikal. \r\n','-','Sivabharathy B., V. Kanthaswamy, V. Sundaram, V. Krishnan and M. Manikandan (2023). Studies on per se Performance of Sponge Gourd Genotypes (Luffa cylindrica L.) for Growth and Yield Attributes. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 15(9): 28-33.'),(7355,'165','Evaluation of Sucrose and Sodium Hypochlorite as Pulsing Solution in Improving the Post-harvest Quality in Chrysanthemum cv. White Star','Satvaan Singh, Sunil Malik, Mukesh Kumar, Satendra Kumar, Shishu Pal Singh and Bhim Singh ','Evaluation-of-Sucrose-and-Sodium-Hypochlorite-as-Pulsing-Solution-in-Improving-the-Post-harvest-Quality-in-Chrysanthemum-cv.-White-Star-Satvaan-Singh-7.pdf','',1,'Chrysanthemum is an important commercial cut flower that is emerging in the floriculture industry. Pulsing is a primary concern in the commercialization of flower as after harvest flowers tends to lose their freshness. Among the different pulsing solution used to improve the vase life of chrysanthemum, Sucrose and Sodium hypochlorite has emerged as potent holding solution that can delay the senescence and improve the post-harvest life of Chrysanthemum. In this experiment, we studied the potential of Sucrose and Sodium hypochlorite in improving the vase life of Chrysanthemum cv. ‘White Star’. The challenges of the study Chrysanthemum spike were harvested at the flower bud stage and the temperature was approximately 18°C, the uniform flowers were cut and immediately stood upright in buckets partially filled with de-ionized water. The latter stage proved that sucrose and NaOCl prolonged the vase life of the Chrysanthemum flower. The overall best treatment for different parameters for improving the vase life of chrysanthemum during the season 2021-2022 were recorded under the treatment T8 (Sucrose 20 % + NaOCl 50 ppm) 2 hours followed by the treatment T6 (Sucrose 10 % + NaOCl 50 ppm) 2 hours and T4 (Sucrose 5 % + NaOCl 50 ppm) 2 hours while pulsing with T0 Control (de-ionized water) adversely affected the different post-harvest parameters of Chrysanthemum.','Chrysanthemum, Pulsing, Sucrose, Sodium hypochlorite and Vase life','Results of the present study suggest that the overall best treatment for different parameters for improving the vase life of chrysanthemum during the season 2021-2022 was recorded under the treatment T8 (Sucrose 20 % + NaOCl 50 ppm) 2 hours followed by the treatment T6 (Sucrose 10 % + NaOCl 50 ppm) 2 hours and T4 (Sucrose 5 % + NaOCl 50 ppm) 2 hours, which significantly improved the post-harvest quality of chrysanthemum spikes. The various holding solutions significantly improved the different post-harvest parameters in Chrysanthemum viz., days to bud opening, fresh weight of flower, flower height, stem diameter, total solution consumption, total moisture loss in cut flower, dry weight of spike, flower diameter, flower weight, water uptake, mean transportation loss of water however minimum response was noted under control. The biochemical attributes such as relative water content, electrolyte leakage, total soluble solids and total sugar significantly influenced and performed better under these treatments. ','-','Satvaan Singh, Sunil Malik, Mukesh Kumar, Satendra Kumar, Shishu Pal Singh and Bhim Singh (2023). Evaluation of Sucrose and Sodium Hypochlorite as Pulsing Solution in Improving the Post-harvest quality in Chrysanthemum cv. White Star. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 15(9): 34-44.'),(7356,'165','Application of Response Surface Methodology for Nutritional Properties of Cookies Fortified with Niger\r\n','Archana Maravi, Deepali Bajpai, Shashi Bala Ahirwar, Priyanka Patel, Anubha Upadhyay and Alpana Singh ','Application-of-Response-Surface-Methodology-for-Nutritional-Properties-of-Cookies-Fortified-with-Niger-Archana-Maravi-8.pdf','',1,' The present research aimed to examine the feasibility of using extremely nutritious Niger seed in baked goods and evaluate the nutritional properties made using whole Niger flour and sugar replacements to develop niger fortified cookies. In this research work, the independent parameter, i.e., WNF (whole niger flour): RWF (refined wheat flour) (90:10–70:30), sugar (20-60g), shortening agent (15-35g), baking powder(2.5-4.5g) for the development of niger fortified cookies with high protein, and nutrient-dense and to maximize the acceptability by the application of mathematical approach based on CCRD RSM was successfully used to optimize the niger flour fortified cookies beneficially. The optimal combination of different ingredients required to produce cookies was a moisture content of 22.388%, protein 14.945%, fat 29.307%, carbohydrate 50.135%, crude fiber 2.394%, calcium 93.534%, phosphorus 235.948 %, Zinc 2.640%, Iron 11.354% at WNF: RWF 22.388g, sugar 41.617g, shortening 24.143g, baking powder 3.5g respectively. The final consumer perceives the nutritional properties of cookies as criteria of quality.','Nutritional, Niger, Fortified, Cookies, RSM','This study\'s findings demonstrated the enormous potential of Niger seed by demonstrating how adding more protein, fiber, and minerals to cookies boosted their nutritious value. The analysis showed that the fortified cookies\' chemical parameter was superior to the control. In comparison to their control, the fortified items were shown to have greater levels of protein (13.89% to 15.76%), fat (28.04% to 30.34%), fiber (2.1-2.84%), and iron (11.02-11.78%). (0%Niger flour supplement). The ideal proportions of the composite ingredients needed to make biscuits with the desired nutritional and mineral properties were as follows: moisture content 22.388%, protein 14.945%, fat 29.307%, carbohydrate 50.135%, crude fiber 2.394%, calcium 93.534%, phosphorus 235.948%, zinc 2.640%, iron 11.354 at WNF: RWF 22.388g, sugar 41.617g, shortening 24.143g, and baking powder 3.5g. The consumption of cookies enriched with Niger flour should therefore be encouraged as part of a regular diet to improve people\'s reputations for good nutrition. ','-','Archana Maravi, Deepali Bajpai, Shashi Bala Ahirwar, Priyanka Patel, Anubha Upadhyay and Alpana Singh (2023). Application of Response Surface Methodology for Nutritional Properties of Cookies Fortified with Niger. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 15(9): 45-53.'),(7357,'165','Survey on Pesticide use and usage Pattern in Papaya Crop cultivated in \r\nTamil Nadu\r\n','Jayashree E., Suganthi A., Bhuvaneswari K., Renukadevi P. and Kavitha C.','Survey on Pesticide use and usage Pattern in Papaya Crop cultivated in -Jayashree E-9.pdf','',1,'A survey was conducted to assess the farmer’s knowledge on pest, pesticide use and usage pattern in three major growing districts of Tamil Nadu during the year 2022-2023. Papaya mealybug, whitefly, fruit fly, ash weevil, aphids, scales, grasshoppers were found to infest papaya, among which papaya mealybug caused more damage (90%). It was observed that most of the farmers use pesticide mixtures for the pest management. The most used pesticide was Spirotetramat 11.01% + Imidacloprid 11.01% w/w SC, followed by Acephate 50% + Imidacloprid 7.5% SP, Azoxystrobin 11% + Tebuconazole 18.3% SC and Azoxystrobin 8.3% + Mancozeb 66.7% WDG. Only 23.33 % of farmers spray pesticides at recommended dose. The results revealed that majority of farmers (63.33%) consult pesticide retailers for the selection of pesticides. Farmers were not aware of safe waiting period before harvest, attention towards label, safety measures while spraying pesticide in field. The pesticides are applied at fortnight intervals in papaya ecosystem. ','Papaya, Papaya mealybug, Pesticide use','Papaya cultivation is gaining importance due to its high nutritive value and affordable price for consumption; therefore, we must ensure the appropriate pesticide usage to avoid residues in papaya fruits. Farmers\' knowledge is changing, as seen by the use of a stick for mixing, the use of measuring cups, and the avoidance of recycling pesticide containers for home use. However, farmer’s awareness on the usage of recommended pesticides, following pre-harvest intervals, label claims, and safety measures during spray operations was lacking. In order to grow pesticide residue-free papaya fruit, farmers must be educated about the importance of following regular pre-harvest intervals, colour, and symbols on pesticide containers, identifying active ingredients, ration use, and safe handling of pesticides. Application of pesticides can be reduced by adopting the Integrated Pest Management practices in papaya.','-','Jayashree E., Suganthi A., Bhuvaneswari K., Renukadevi P. and Kavitha C. (2023). Survey on Pesticide use and usage Pattern in Papaya Crop cultivated in Tamil Nadu. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 15(9): 54-60.'),(7358,'165','Characterization of Pod Rot Fungus of Blackgram and its Management using Fungicides and Bioagents for Enhancing Seed Germination and Vigour','P. Kishore Varma, B. Shiva, N. Kamakshi, M.V. Ramana, V. Vasanthi, A. Janaki Prasad, Bavana Keerthi, Pushpa Rajyam and Sharon Roj ','Characterization-of-Pod-Rot-Fungus-of-Blackgram-and-its-Management-using-Fungicides-and-Bioagents-for-Enhancing-Seed-Germination-and-Vigour-P-Kishore-Varma-10.pdf','',1,'Pod rot is one of the major causes for deterioration of blackgram seed during untimely rains at harvest. Studies on blackgram pod rot at RARS, Lam, Guntur during Kharif 2022 revealed that Fusarium sp. is the major culprit for pod deterioration that results in low seed germination. The major pod rot fungus was characterized as Fusarium chlamydosporum using ITS primers. An attempt has been made in this study to evaluate various fungicides and biocontrol agents as seed treatment to enhance seed germination and vigour of pod rot affected seed. Eight fungicides and biocontrol agents were tested in vitro for their Fusarium suppressing and seed growth promoting ability using poisoned food, dual culture and roll paper towel methods. Among different fungicides tested at 500 ppm and 1000 ppm concentrations, tebuconazole, hexaconazole, carbendazim, carbendazim + mancozeb, propiconazole showed 100 per cent inhibition of mycelial growth of Fusarium sp. In case of bioagents, Pseudomonas aeruginosa P20 showed highest mycelial growth inhibition (88.24%) followed by Pseudomonas chlororaphis P19 (87.65%), Bacillus vallismortis B20 (77.65%) and Bacillus inaquosorumB2 (74.12%) in dual culture assay. Seed treatment with fungicides and bioagents followed by roll towel paper method of seed germination revealed improvement of seed germination and other growth parameters besides reducing seed borne fungal infection when compared to control. Highest germination and seedling vigour were obtained in Bacillus inaquosorum treated blackgram seeds when compared to all other treatments. Though, germination and seed infestation were found to be enhanced in most of the chemical treatments, some of the fungicide formulations used were found inhibitory to radicle and plumule growth. Overall, the study indicated that the germination of pod rot affected blackgram seeds could be improved by seed treatment with fungicides and biocontrol agents.','Urdbean, Vigna mungo, pod rot, seed germination, seedling vigour, fungicides, bioagents','Overall, the results of the present study revealed the association of Fusarium chlamydosporum with the pod rot of blackgram in Guntur district of Andhra Pradesh during Kharif, 2022. Bacterial bioagents and triazole compounds were found inhibitory to the mycelial growth of F. chlamydosporum under laboratory conditions compared to other bioagents and other group of fungicides studied. Seed treatment with Bacillus inaquosorum could be advocated to reduce seed infection of pod rot fungus of blackgram thereby improving seed germination and seedling vigour. In future, the effective treatments have to be assessed as pre-harvest sprays in vivo to reduce the incidence of pod mycoflora that affect the blackgram seed germination.','-','P. Kishore Varma, B. Shiva, N. Kamakshi, M.V. Ramana, V. Vasanthi, A. Janaki Prasad, Bavana Keerthi, Pushpa Rajyam and Sharon Roj (2023). Characterization of Pod Rot Fungus of Blackgram and its Management using Fungicides and Bioagents for Enhancing Seed Germination and Vigour. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 15(9): 61-67.'),(7359,'163','An Efficient Procedure for Esterification of certain Aromatic Acids and its Synthetic Utilities','Somwanshi A.R.','An-Efficient-Procedure-for-Esterification-of-certain-Aromatic-Acids-and-its-Synthetic-Utilities-Somwanshi-AR-81.pdf','',1,'The esterification of aromatic acids can be promoted by mineral acid (H2SO4) under standard conditions. The desired product was separated by simple extraction method. Here we have used ethyl acetate as extracting solvent for the product and water (equimolar quantity). As these esters is the important and initial step for the synthesis benzoflavone (7, 8). So, in this work we have studied the first step for flavone synthesis. And synthesized couple of derivatives with different substituents of aromatic acids and it may lead to the further synthetic route for the formation different moieties of benzoflavones rings having promising biological activities and the structural analysis of these derivatives was confirmed by 1H NMR, 13CNMR and GCMS analysis. ','Esterification, acetylation, mineral acid, extraction method, aromatic acids','The esterification of different aromatic acids has been carried out with mineral acids (Few drops of H2SO4) as a catalyst. To know the role of different substituents on the aromatic ring. We have synthesized the couple of derivatives. In synthetic route the separation of product was done by simple extraction method with two solvent and brine solutions. Here we have used ethyl acetate (Ester extracting solvent) and water to remove the excess mineral acid. This esterification reaction is a promising and efficient protocol to synthesize several novel esters of substituted aromatic carboxylic acids with different phenols and naphthol’s. ','-','Somwanshi A.R. (2023). An Efficient Procedure for Esterification of certain Aromatic Acids and its Synthetic Utilities. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 15(5a): 521-526.'),(7360,'156','Block-Wise Comparison of Daily Per Capita Food Consumption Pattern of Antyodaya Beneficiaries of Sirmour District in Himachal Pradesh','Ritu Verma, Shanta Kumari and Virender Kumar ','Block-Wise-Comparison-of-Daily-Per-Capita-Food-Consumption-Pattern-of-Antyodaya-Beneficiaries-of-Sirmour-District-in-Himachal-Pradesh-Shanta-Kumari-145.pdf','',1,'The present study is designed to understand the consumption pattern of Antyodaya beneficiaries of Public Distribution System (PDS) in Sirmour district. In the study, PDS system of the district has been evaluated based on the daily per capita food consumption. Out of six blocks of the district, four blocks viz., Rajgarh, Paonta Sahib, Pachhad & Nahan has been selected for the study. The multistage random sampling technique was used for selecting the sample of 100 rural beneficiaries those who belongs to the category of Antyodaya Anna Yojana. The finding of the study revealed that daily per capita food consumption of most of the food stuff like pulses, edible oil, vegetables, fruits and meat was less than the required daily recommended dietary allowances in all selected blocks. Whereas, daily per capita consumption of rice/wheat flour, sugar, salt & milk was more than the required amount in Rajgarh, Paonta Sahib and Pachhad blocks. While in Nahan block, milk consumption was less than the required amount. The major challenge of the study was to identify the needy people under the respective category of the PDS. The study also found that beneficiaries were not having the sufficient amount of food.Therefore, the study suggested that the government should increase the entitled quantity of the essential commodities and more employment opportunities should be generated for the particular category to improve the daily per capita food consumption, nutritional value, healthy life and standard of living of the beneficiaries.','Public distribution system, beneficiaries, antyodaya, per capita food consumption','The daily per capita food consumption of most of the food stuff like pulses, edible oil, vegetables, fruits and meat were less than daily recommended dietary allowances required except rice/ wheat flour/ sugar, salt & milk of Rajgarh, Paonta Sahib and Pachhad blocks beneficiaries. Because rice/ wheat flour was the most necessary & demanded food items and share of its distribution was also more as compare to other food items through PDS. Whereas, in case of Nahan block milk consumption was also less than daily recommended dietary allowances required. Due to the low purchasing power & low income Rajgarh, Paonta Sahib, Pachhad and Nahan blocks beneficiaries were not consuming adequate quantity of food. Daily per capita calorie intake of beneficiaries of all the four blocks was less the than required calories. This indicates that economic status of all four blocks beneficiaries was very poor in the study area. To enhance daily per capita food consumption, nutritional value, healthy life, daily per capita consumption expenditure and standard of living of the beneficiaries government should provide more employment opportunities and the entitled PDS ration quantity for the inadequate food items should be increased.','-','Ritu Verma, Shanta Kumari and Virender Kumar (2023). Block-Wise Comparison of Daily per Capita Food Consumption Pattern of Antyodaya Beneficiaries of Sirmour District in Himachal Pradesh. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 15(4): 870-876.'),(7361,'156','Antioxidant Efficacy of Selected Perennials: Musa sp., Cissus sp. \r\nand Nyctanthes sp., Prevalent in South India\r\n','Vijayalakshmi S., Athira J.K., Dhanushree D. and Sowjani V.G. ','Antioxidant-Efficacy-of-Selected-Perennials-Musa-sp.,-Cissus-sp.,-and-Nyctanthes-sp.,-Prevalent-in-South-India-Vijayalakshmi-S-146.pdf','',1,'The present study was aimed to extract and qualitatively analyse the phytochemicals from different plant parts, perform antioxidant assay and anticancer studies on A549.Three perennial plants with unique identities were selected for the present study that includes: organic variety of Musa acuminate, ‘Red Dacca’, salt tolerant variety of Nyctanthes arbor-tristis (Night flowering jasmine) and Cissus quadrungularis var. rotundus, commonly referred as veldt grape. Among various solvents used polar solvents like Ethanol, Water (aqueous) and Acetone were identified as most potent owing to the extraction of most phytochemicals from different plant parts. Stem ethanolic extract of Cissus sp., Aqueous extract of flower bracts of Musa sp., and Calyx ethanolic extracts of Nyctanthes sp., were considered of utmost significance owing to their antioxidant activity and anticancer efficacy against A549 revealed by their respective IC50 values: 125 µg/ml for Cissus sp., 63µg/ml. for Musa sp. and 70 µg/ml for Nyctanthes sp. respectively. Thenceforth the study makes a comprehensive comparison of chosen perennial plants and their parts for bioactive efficacy.','Cissus quadrungularis var. rotundus, A549, Nyctanthes arbour-tristis, Musa acuminate, Salt','Among various solvents used for phytochemical analysis of chosen plant varieties of Cissus sp. Nyctanthes sp. and Musa sp., polar solvents like Ethanol, Water (aqueous) and Acetone were identified as most potent owing to the extraction of most phytochemicals from different plant parts. Stem ethanolic extract of Cissus sp., Aqueous extract of flower bracts of Musa sp., and Calyx ethanolic extracts of Nyctanthes sp., were considered of utmost significance owing to their antioxidant activity and anticancer efficacy against A549 revealed by their respective IC50 values: 125 µg/ml for Cissus sp., 63µg/ml. for Musa sp. and 70 µg/ml for Nyctanthes sp. respectively. Thenceforth the study makes a comprehensive comparison of chosen perennial plants and their parts for bioactive efficacy.','-','Vijayalakshmi S., Athira J.K., Dhanushree D. and Sowjani V.G. (2023). Antioxidant Efficacy of Selected Perennials: Musa sp., Cissus sp. and Nyctanthes sp., Prevalent in South India. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 15(4): 877-883.'),(7362,'163','A First Report on Buttermilk Isolate Dipodascus armillariae and its Improved Strain DAM 5 as a Novel Probiotic','Vijayalakshmi S., Anagha J. and Keerthana B.','A-First-Report-on-Buttermilk-Isolate-Dipodascus-armillariae-and-its-Improved-Strain-DAM-5-as-a-Novel-Probiotic-Vijayalakshmi-S-82.pdf','',1,'A new era in the probiotic family is emerging with the identification of many fungal strains as probiotics. Fungi are excellent candidates for probiotic flora due to their distinct cellular structures and enhanced capacity to survive in the hostile environment of the gastrointestinal system. Here, probiotics formulated using buttermilk isolate of Dipodascus armillaria and its caffeine improved variant (DAM 5) were compared with conventional strain of Lactobacillus acidophilus. Probiotic characterization of isolates revealed pH 1 tolerance, high antimicrobial activity and increased lactic acid production by DAM5. In this endeavour, an effort was made to create nutritionally enhanced probiotic drink, using the medicinal plant extracts of Alternanthera sessilis & Eclipta prostrata, with the chosen strains and assessed for their capacity to endure in or ferment these plants\' leaf extracts. Two weeks fermented plant extracts revealed improving acidity, low pH, higher turbidity, antimicrobial & antioxidant activity and an increase in energy content of the chosen isolates. A. sessilis proved to be a best plant substrate compared to E. prostrata. Statistical analysis revealed the use of DAM 5 to be significant in probiotic formulation compared to other isolates. Extended study improving their shelf life can be better future prospect.','Probiotics, Alternanthera sessilis, Eclipta prostrata, Dipodascus armillaria, DAM 5','In the present study entitled an attempt has been made to isolate an efficient potential probiotic yeast strain from buttermilk, its improvement with caffeine and further evaluation of their essential probiotic properties. Presence of Dipodascus armillariae in buttermilk has been revealed and its utilization as a probiotic becomes novel and significant as the results concluded higher pH tolerance (at pH 1), better antimicrobial efficacy (23mm) and enhanced lactic acid production (0.6%). Use of caffeine being a natural stimulant effective in probiotic enhancement is also proven as 1mM concentration showed 16% increase in lactic acid production in 24 hours of study. Hence, due to these properties this particular improved variety Dipodascus armillaria treated with 1mM caffeine (namely, DAM 5) was identified to be used in future for probiotic product formulations.','-','Vijayalakshmi S., Anagha J. and Keerthana B. (2023). A First Report on Buttermilk Isolate Dipodascus armillariae and its Improved Strain DAM 5 as a Novel Probiotic. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 15(5a): 527-531.'),(7363,'165','Knowledge and Benefits of Farm Pond Scheme among Farm Women of \r\nBhilwara District\r\n','Riya Arya, Rajshree Uppadhyay, Prakash Panwar, Swati Inani and Vasundhara Saxena ','Knowledge-and-Benefits-of-Farm-Pond-Scheme-among-Farm-Women-of-Bhilwara-district-Swati-Goyal-11.pdf','',1,'This study aims to examine farm women\'s awareness, utilization, and constraints related to the Farm Pond Scheme by the State Department of Agriculture. Findings from the survey of respondents revealed that approximately 55% were aware of the scheme\'s existence, and 53% comprehended its objectives. Conversely, a smaller portion, approximately 34%, possessed knowledge of its specific provisions. Approximately 40% of respondents reported benefiting from the scheme, indicating a noteworthy level of implementation. Analysis of constraints disclosed notable challenges, including reduced farm space due to pond installation, delayed supervisor responses, untimely subsidy disbursement, apprehensions about child safety, and perceived elevated construction costs despite subsidies. These limitations appeared to stem from factors such as limited awareness, low literacy levels, and constrained socio-economic conditions. Restricted access to banking services and difficulties posed by rocky terrain further compounded implementation challenges. The study illuminated a multifaceted landscape concerning the Farm Pond Scheme among female farmers. While a substantial proportion demonstrated awareness and participation, impediments in communication, safety concerns, and financial constraints posed barriers to optimal utilization. Mitigating these challenges necessitates targeted efforts to bolster awareness, optimize administrative processes, and offer specialized support for intricate terrains. Such actions hold the potential to enhance the scheme\'s efficacy, fostering sustainable agricultural advancement and socio-economic upliftment for farm women.','Farm women, Knowledge, Benefits and Constraints, Government schemes','The findings presented in this study shed light on the knowledge, benefits, and constraints faced by rural women in relation to the Farm Pond Scheme (Khet Talai Nirmaan Yojana). The study revealed that more than half of the respondents were acquainted with the scheme and its objectives, which include storing rainwater to provide a consistent and reliable water supply to aid rain-fed farmers, thus reducing their vulnerability. However, the awareness levels varied across different aspects of the scheme. A substantial number of respondents were aware of the scheme\'s objective and its applicability to small and marginal farmers, although a smaller percentage were familiar with the subsidy provision, advantages of farm ponds, application procedures, and required documents. In terms of benefits derived from the scheme, approximately 40% of the respondents were beneficiaries of the Farm Pond Scheme. Most beneficiaries had been availing its advantages for less than 3 years, with a notable proportion receiving a subsidy that covers 60% of the cost or a maximum of Rs 63,000. The beneficiaries reported utilizing the farm ponds for various purposes, including water storage, fish farming, azolla production, and crop irrigation. Despite the benefits, the study also indicated limitations in the beneficiaries\' access to other government schemes, underscoring the need for broader outreach and engagement. However, the study also illuminated several challenges faced by the respondents in availing the benefits of the Farm Pond Scheme. A substantial proportion of respondents encountered constraints such as reduction in farm area, delays in receiving responses from supervisors, and untimely receipt of subsidies. These constraints, along with concerns about cost-effectiveness and risk, were significant impediments to fully realizing the scheme\'s potential. It is evident that these challenges were more pronounced among respondents with limited awareness, low literacy rates, and socio-economic vulnerabilities. In conclusion, the Farm Pond Scheme has contributed to improving the livelihoods of rural women by providing them with opportunities for water storage, aquaculture, and enhanced crop irrigation. However, there are still considerable challenges that need to be addressed, particularly with regard to spreading awareness, streamlining procedures, and mitigating constraints. Bridging these gaps will require collaborative efforts involving the government, local institutions, and community stakeholders to ensure that the benefits of such schemes effectively reach the intended beneficiaries and contribute to the overall development of rural communities.','-','Riya Arya, Rajshree Uppadhyay, Prakash Panwar, Swati Inani and Vasundhara Saxena (2023). Knowledge and Benefits of Farm Pond Scheme among Farm Women of Bhilwara District. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 15(9): 68-73.'),(7364,'164','Effect of Silicon Application on Growth, Development and Grain Yield of Rice Genotypes under Water Stress','D. Snehalatha, J. Bharghavi, P. Raghuveer Rao and C.V. Sameer Kumar ','Effect-of-Silicon-Application-on-Growth,-Development-and-Grain-Yield-of-Rice-Genotypes-under-Water-Stress-D-Snehalatha-83.pdf','',1,'Rice (Oryza sativa L.) is a main cereal crop and a staple food across the world. Drought is one of the most critical limiting factors for rice production, which adversely affects food security globally. Silica reduces oxidative damage in plants under stress by enhancing antioxidant activity. The integration of silica in breeding programs is also recommended to improve the quality of yield and to provide drought-tolerant rice cultivars under drought-stress conditions. The present investigation evaluated the impact of silicon application in alleviating water stress of rice genotypes. The results revealed that water stress significantly reduced leaf area index, chlorophyll content, total dry matter, spikelets, number of filled grains and grain yield. In comparison with control, silicon application (T2) has increased LAI by 39.63%, SCMR value by 2.85%, total dry matter by 23.63%, panicle weight by 24.66%, number of filled grains by 24.21%, number of spikelets panicle-1 by 16.34% and grain yield by 10.60%; water stress alone (T3) reduced LAI by 2.51%, SCMR value by 2.19%, total dry matter by 21.93%, panicle weight by 41.43%, number of filled grains by 43.20%, number of spikelets panicle-1 by 33.74% and grain yield by 40.88%; while silicon + water stress (T4) enhanced LAI by 30.26%, SCMR value by 1.64%, total dry matter by 1.06% and reduced panicle weight by 23.53%, number of filled grains by 18.39%, number of spikelets panicle-1 by 18.48%, grain yield by 19.24%. In conclusion, silicon application has reduced the adverse impacts of water stress on rice and improved the growth and development under both well-watered and water stress conditions compared to water stress alone. Hence, silicon application can be adopted as a cost-effective strategy to mitigate the negative impacts of drought in rice and to improve the yield potential of rice genotypes.','Silicon, water stress, leaf area index, grain yield and rice','Silicon application has enhanced the growth and grain yield of rice under both well-watered and water stress conditions. Hence, silicon application can be adopted as a cost-effective strategy to enhance growth, development, grain yield and its attributes such as leaf area index, chlorophyll content, biomass, culm strength, grain number and panicle weight.','-','D. Snehalatha, J. Bharghavi, P. Raghuveer Rao and C.V. Sameer Kumar (2023). Effect of Silicon Application on Growth, Development and Grain Yield of Rice Genotypes under Water Stress. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 15(8a): 507-513.'),(7365,'165','Study the Weather Parameters Affecting Amplitude Fluctuation in the Population Dynamics of Ocimum Leaf Folder, Orphanostigma abruptelis on Sweet Basil in Bihar','Amit Kumar, Manoj Kumar and Heenashree Mansion ','Study-the-Weather-Parameters-Affecting-Amplitude-Fluctuation-in-the-Population-Dynamics-of-Ocimum-Leaf-Folder,-Orphanostigma-abruptelis-on-Sweet-Basil-in-Bihar-Amit-Kumar-12.pdf','',1,'The present investigation was studied in Kharif 2021 in the field of Herbal Garden, Hi-tech unit of Dr. Rajendra Prasad Central Agricultural University, Pusa (Samastipur) Bihar. In the course of research, the study of seasonal incidence of ocimum leaf folder, O. abruptalis on sweet basil revealed that the larval population exhibited significant a non-significant relationship with Standard Meteorological Week (SMW). The incidence of ocimum leaf folder were observed from 39th SMW which was (2.33 larvae/ 5 plants) while the peak population of this pest was recorded at 47th SMW (11.00 larvae/ 5 plants) afterwards the population of leaf folder started gradually decreasing by maturity of the sweet basil crop.\r\nThe correlation studies with leaf folder population in relation with weather parameters where larva of ocimum leaf folder were negatively non- significant correlated (-0.14NS) with maximum temperature whereas positively non-significant correlated (0.53NS) with minimum temperature, while positive and non-significant correlation (0.48NS) with morning relative humidity whereas negatively significant correlation (-0.59*) with evening relative humidity and non-significant & negatively correlated (-0.39NS) with rainfall. This study provides basic knowledge about the incidence and damage caused by this pest, and its behavior towards abiotic factors.\r\n','Sweet basil, Leaf folder, Orphanostigma abruptelis. Population dynamics','On the basis of present investigation conducted on sweet basil, it may be concluded that the seasonal incidence of ocimum leaf folder was gradually increasing and it’s reached to peak which was recorded (11.00 larvae/5 plants) in 47th SMW. The data on correlation between the mean population of leaf folder and weather factors were calculated by considering maximum temperature (°C), minimum temperature (°C), morning and evening relative humidity, respectively which observed the leaf folder were showed (-0.14NS), (0.53NS), (0.48NS), (-59*) negatively non-significant with maximum temperature and positively non-significant correlation with minimum temperature while positively non-significant and negatively significant correlation with morning and evening relative humidity, respectively. The correlation between rainfall (mm) and mean population of leaf folder was negatively non-significant(-0.39NS). Correlation coefficient of leaf folder with weather factors showed 64 % variation (R2= 0.64).','-','Amit Kumar, Manoj Kumar and Heenashree Mansion (2023). Study the Weather Parameters Affecting Amplitude Fluctuation in the Population Dynamics of Ocimum Leaf Folder, Orphanostigma abruptelis on Sweet Basil in Bihar. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 15(9): 74-79.'),(7366,'163','Effects of Muscle Energy techniques in Hamstring Flexibility','Mallika S., Sam Thamburaj A. and Baskaran A. ','Effects-of-Muscle-Energy-techniques-in-Hamstring-Flexibility-Mallika-S-83.pdf','',1,'The purpose of this research is to do a comparative analysis on the effects of two different Muscle Energy Techniques in improving hamstring flexibility. A quasi-experimental study was undertaken, using a sample of 48 people exhibiting hamstring tightness. The participants in this study were recruited and thereafter allocated randomly to one of two groups: the Post Isometric Relaxation (PIR) group and the Reciprocal Inhibition (RI) group. The selection of participants was conducted from specific places within the Salem district of Tamil Nadu, India. The study included three outcome measures, namely passive knee extension (PKE), sit and reach test, and stand and reach test. The evaluation of outcome measures was performed at two distinct time intervals: a duration of two weeks and a duration of four weeks subsequent to the implementation of the intervention. The results of the study revealed a significant improvement in hamstring flexibility during passive knee extension (PKE) for both experimental groups, starting at the two-week time point. However, the other two assessed outcomes shown improvement individually after a four-week intervention period. A significant discrepancy was seen between the two groups throughout the course of a two-week and four-week intervention period, with all three outcomes indicating a predilection for the PIR group. The current study shows empirical evidence suggesting that the use of Muscle Energy Technique (MET) has a positive impact on the improvement of hamstring flexibility. However, the findings indicate that Post-Isometric Relaxation (PIR) produces more favourable results when compared to Reciprocal Inhibition (RI) in both the immediate (2 weeks) and short-term (4 weeks) timeframes.','Hamstring Injuries, Inhibition techniques, Muscle energy','This study\'s findings indicate that both interventions demonstrate efficacy in enhancing hamstring flexibility. However, it is seen that the Post-Isometric Relaxation (PIR) intervention yields greater results compared to the Reciprocal Inhibition (RI) intervention, both in the immediate (2 weeks) and short-term (4 weeks) periods. Further investigation is required to examine the long-term durability of these benefits after the discontinuation of the intervention. It is recommended that future studies use a larger sample size to enhance the generalizability of the findings.','-','Mallika S., Sam Thamburaj A. and Baskaran A. (2023). Effects of Muscle Energy techniques in Hamstring Flexibility. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 15(5a): 532-537.'),(7367,'163','Advances in Sequencing Technologies in Plant Pathology','Prashanth Kumar A.','Advances-in-Sequencing-Technologies-in-Plant-Pathology-Prashanth-Kumar-A-84.pdf','',1,'Molecular techniques offer enhanced precision in species identification, such as Sanger sequencing for fungi and environmental DNA samples. High-throughput DNA sequencing (HTS) methodologies have significantly transformed research in plant and soil biology, enabling a more accurate evaluation of biodiversity within terrestrial ecosystems. However, certain biases persist and require resolution. Metabarcoding, which involves examining the identification of fungi and oomycetes, is another method used to evaluate fungal biodiversity across various settings. The effectiveness of DNA metabarcoding depends on the careful selection of a suitable DNA marker gene. Researchers commonly use DNA barcoding and metabarcoding techniques to analyze fungal communities, but certain groups may not exhibit complete resolution at the species level using the ITS region. Amplicon sequence variant (ASV) methodologies enhance taxonomic identification, while databases like FUN Guild and Fungal Traits can identify ITS sequences from fungal and other eukaryotic organisms. Metabarcoding is a molecular technique used to identify and quantify species within environmental samples, providing cost-efficient approaches for characterizing microbial communities. It has been used to examine plant illnesses such as Fusarium Head blight; grapevine trunk diseases and apple replant disease. High-throughput sequencing has enhanced our capacity to evaluate biodiversity in fungal communities across ecosystems. High-throughput sequencing (HTS) enables the sequencing of the entire transcriptome, facilitating the identification of isoforms, unique transcripts, alternative splice variants and genomic variants. However, the accurate taxonomic classification of fungal transcripts at the species level heavily relies on the presence of full genomes. Metabarcoding sequencing is the most widely employed method for plant pest detection and identification due to its favorable cost-efficiency ratio and low risk of false-positive results. However, there is a lack of research focused on the validation of high-throughput sequencing (HTS) approaches for diagnosing phytopathogenic fungi. The analytical sensitivity of high-throughput sequencing can be influenced by factors such as the number of reads produced per sample, the DNA extraction technique employed, and the competition for primers in the PCR reaction. The importance of HTS technologies for the diagnosis of filamentous plant diseases is now recognized, but the cost of sequencing per sample remains unaffordable for several facilities. Long-read sequencing techniques are proposed to address the presence of soil sample sequences lacking homologies in many databases. Next-generation sequencing (NGS) technology can be used for routine detection of fungal pathogens, but the volume of NGS data requires enhancements in management. A specialized pipeline has been created using machine learning classifiers to benefit metabarcoding studies.','Epidemic, Metabarcoding, High-throughput sequencing, PCR, transcriptome, DNA extraction and next generation sequencing','The importance of HTS technologies for the diagnosis of filamentous plant diseases caused by fungi and oomycetes, as well as their role in enhancing plant disease management, is now generally recognized. Nevertheless, it is imperative to acknowledge that there remain economic and technical factors that necessitate careful consideration prior to the realization and widespread implementation of this aspiration. Despite the potential solution of adding additional samples in each run, the cost of sequencing per sample remains unaffordable for several facilities. This suggests that more measures of DNA purification are necessary in order to prevent the occurrence of unanticipated and undesirable sequencing artifacts. These measures may include the utilization of a dummy sample and the inclusion of DNA derived from healthy plant tissues as controls. The presence of soil sample sequences lacking homologies in many databases, sometimes referred to as \"dark taxa\" or \"dark matter fungi,\" has been frequently seen (Page et al., 2016). The aforementioned phenomenon can be attributed to the substantial presence of fungal species that are non-cultivable and have not yet been adequately documented. Additionally, the limited taxonomic resolution achieved by the utilization of \"short-reads\" sequences of the rRNA barcodes has also played a role in this matter (Tedersoo et al., 2014). The proposed solution to address this issue is the utilization of long-read sequencing techniques to sequence the complete rRNA operon, encompassing the large subunit (LSU), internal transcribed spacer (ITS), and small subunit (SSU) (Jamy et al., 2020; Tedersoo et al., 2017; Latz et al., 2022). The scientific community has not fully embraced the suggestion to include intracellular DNA, sometimes known as metagenomic DNA or mgDNA, as a type (Burgaz et al., 2018; Lucking et al., 2021; Hongsanan et al., 2018). One problem with using Next-Generation Sequencing (NGS) technology to find fungal pathogens on a regular basis is that it needs to be made easier to manage the large amount of NGS data. This includes things like server capacity and memory power, as well as the availability of bioinformatic skills, such as algorithms and expert personnel. In order to achieve this objective, a specialized pipeline has been created, utilizing machine learning classifiers, as a viable approach for assigning error-prone sequence-long readings to certain taxa (Krause et al., 2021; Enjes et al., 2021; Yang et al., 2020). Metabarcoding studies, which encompass investigations into human diseases, can benefit from the application of machine learning (ML) modeling. ML modeling can aid in the prediction of disease outcomes and the analysis of environmental factors that influence microbial composition. This approach is relevant not just in the context of agricultural and natural ecosystems but also in the broader field of metabarcoding research (Chang et al., 2017; Zhou et al., 2019; Sharma et al., 2022; Namkung et al., 2020).','-','Prashanth Kumar A. (2023). Advances in Sequencing Technologies in Plant Pathology. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 15(5a): 538-548.'),(7368,'165','Survey of Alternaria alternate causing Leaf Spot of Bael and its Isolation, Purification and Identification of Fungi Associated with Disease','Abhishek Singh, H.K. Singh, Shubham Patel and Jitendar Kumar','Survey-of-Alternaria-alternate-causing-Leaf-Spot-of-Bael-and-its-Isolation,-Purification-and-Identification-of-Fungi-Associated-with-Disease-HK-Singh-13.pdf','',1,'The bael tree, also known as the \"Aegle marmelos\", is a well-known and esteemed tree in India. The nation\'s cultural, religious, and medical traditions place a great importance on it. Aegle marmelos Correa, the fruit known as bael in India, belongs to the Rutaceae family and has chromosome number 2n=36 (n=18). Alternaria leaf spot of bael is now becoming an important menace in Uttar Pradesh and other parts of the country. Present investigations was undertaken to check area were Alterneria leaf spot of bael caused by Alternaria alternata is most prevailing in U.P. district is been check under survey study of alterneria leaf spot of bael, fungal isolation and purification was done to indentify the given pathogen as Alternaria alternate of bael. The pathogenic nature of purified Alternaria alternata was proved by artificial inoculation of bael leaves through spore-cum-mycelial suspension and Koch postulates was been proved. Survey was done for 16 district of Uttar Pradesh.Among the listed districts, Prayagraj consistently shows highest disease incidence and severity, with values increasing from 93.86% to 96.10% for disease incidence and from 50.10% to 51.22% for disease severity between 2022 and 2023. Least was seen in Ayodhya district for Pant Sujata germplasm lowest disease incidence and severity, with values increasing from 9.34% to 8.94% for disease incidence and from 7.84% to 7.64% for disease severity between 2022 and 2023 ND-AH-12 and ND-AH-27 also showed lower disease incidence and severity. Overall, the data shows that disease incidence and severity have generally increased across the districts and germplasms from 2022 to 2023. Some districts consistently show higher disease incidence and severity, while others maintain relatively lower levels. Further analysis is needed to identify the specific diseases and factors contributing to these patterns and to develop appropriate strategies for disease management and prevention. Survey conducted during 2022-23 showed that Alterneria blight of bael disease severity varied from 7.0 to 52.0%. The realm of arid crop research, particularly regarding the bael plant, has remained relatively unexplored. However, this survey data serves as a significant step towards filling this knowledge gap. By focusing on foliar diseases like Alterneria blight in bael, we have acquired valuable insights into the disease\'s prevalence and severity across various regions in Uttar Pradesh.','Alternaria alternata, Aegle marmelos Correa, survey, isolation, purification, pathogenicity test','This study sheds light on the growing concern of Alternaria leaf spot, caused by Alternaria alternata, in bael trees, particularly in Uttar Pradesh, India. The bael tree holds immense cultural, religious, and medicinal significance in the region, making it imperative to address the threat posed by this disease. The research involved a comprehensive survey covering 16 districts of Uttar Pradesh, revealing varying degrees of disease incidence and severity.This newfound understanding not only aids in shedding light on the state of Alterneria blight but also lays the foundation for more targeted and comprehensive future studies. Armed with this data, researchers can make informed decisions about where to concentrate their efforts, ultimately advancing our understanding of this disease and its impact on bael crops.','-','Abhishek Singh, H.K. Singh, Shubham Patel and Jitendar Kumar (2023). Survey of Alternaria alternate causing Leaf Spot of Baeland its Isolation, Purification and Identification of Fungi Associated with Disease. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 15(9): 80-85.'),(7369,'157','Role of Microbial Nanoparticles in Plant Diseases','Prashanth Kumar A.','Role-of-Microbial-Nanoparticles-in-Plant-Diseases-Prashanth-Kumar-A-257.pdf','',1,'Severe plant diseases make food scarcity worse, which has increased interest in environmentally friendly ways to control these diseases. Nanotechnology has gained significant attention in agriculture, with microorganisms being potential candidates for synthesizing metallic nanoparticles. Microorganisms, including bacteria, fungi, and photosynthetic microorganisms can control these nanoparticles. Bacteria can generate extracellular enzymes that reduce metal ions into nanoparticles, while fungi are economically efficient and adaptable. Microalgae, photosynthetic microorganisms can convert metal ions into nanoparticles using internal or extracellular enzymes, making copper nanoparticles a viable and environmentally sustainable solution. Nanoparticles can improve disease control and biocidal capabilities by causing DNA damage and cell death in pathogens and stimulating systemic resistance in plants. Green silver nanoparticles were produced using B. rhodesiae, while bio-engineered chitosan-magnesium nanocomposites reduced biomass in Alternaria solani in 7 days. Biogenic nanoparticles can indirectly manage plant diseases by enhancing growth and productivity, inhibiting pathogen proliferation and stimulating the generation of reactive oxygen species and plant hormones, which are crucial for plant defense mechanisms against pathogens.','Diseases, nanoparticles, bacteria, fungi and photosynthetic microorganisms','Microorganism-derived nanoparticles (NPs) can mitigate drawbacks of conventional chemical-based pesticides by selectively targeting specific diseases, reducing pesticide usage and environmental damage. However, there are challenges in optimizing synthesis, ensuring stability and bioavailability, and transporting NPs to specific areas. Addressing ecological and safety concerns is crucial. Pioneering efforts are needed to optimize biological synthesis methods, promote environmentally sustainable practices, facilitate efficient upscaling processes, and enhance cost-effectiveness. Integrating NPs with precision agriculture and gene editing can help farmers maximize pesticide efficacy. Establishing a comprehensive regulatory framework and conducting field experiments to assess the effectiveness of nanoparticle impacts in real agricultural settings is essential. Further research is needed to fully unlock the potential of microbe-mediated nanoparticles and contribute to sustainable agricultural systems.','-','Prashanth Kumar A. (2023). Role of Microbial Nanoparticles in Plant Diseases. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 15(5): 1723-1729.'),(7370,'164','Effect of different Planting Dates and Genotypes on Flowering, Fruiting and Fruit Quality of Cape Gooseberry (Physalis peruviana L.) under Sub-tropical Region','Shri Kant Bharty, Deepa H. Dwivedi, R.B. Ram and Maya Ram ','Effect-of-different-Planting-Dates-and-Genotypes-on-Flowering,-Fruiting-and-Fruit-Quality-of-Cape-Gooseberry-(Physalis-peruviana-L.)-under-Sub-tropical-Region-Shri-Kant-Bharty-84.pdf','',1,'In view of fluctuation of seasonal temperatures suitable date of plantings play a pivotal role in enhancing the flowering fruiting, yield and quality of crop. Hence, an attempt has been made to counter the adverse conditions. The experiment was conducted to assess the effect of different planting dates and genotypes under sub-tropical region in Lucknow. Planting dates viz., 15th June, 15th July, 15th August and 15th September and had genotypes Lucknow, Banaras, CITH CGB Sel.02, CITH CGB Sel.03 and CITH CGB Sel.05. Accordingly, planting dates and data were recorded on flowering, fruiting and quality attributes of Cape gooseberry genotypes. The results revealed that the minimum (66.84) days to first flower and days to first harvest (85.91) were obtained on15th September(D4) as well as days to fruit set (5.8) were found at 15th August (D3). The maximum (123) number of flowers/plant, number of fruit per plant (90.0 and 88.57), fruit weight (10.66g), cheek diameter (2.46cm) and juice (63.89%), TSS (14.94°Brix) and pH (3.8) were observed under CITH CGB Sel.02.','Sowing date, germplasm, Physalis peruviana L., Cape gooseberry, planting date','According to the findings of the present investigation fruit weight, cheek diameter, number of flowers/plan, number of fruits set/ plant, and juice percentage were all documented on or around July, 15thplanting dates. On the other hand, minimum fruit pH was recorded on genotype Banaras on September 15th and minimum days taken to first harvest on genotype CITH CGB Sel.05. Days to first flower were showed the minimal days to needed CITH CGB Sel.05. While, on August 15th, genotype CITH CGB Sel.03 showed the maximum T.S.S. Furthermore, CITH CGB Sel.02 provided the best phonological growth and enhanced economical yield of Cape gooseberry. The combination of the various genotypes and planting dates revealed that CITH CGB Sel.05 seems to be promising in terms of the flowering and fruiting attributing features. ','-','Shri Kant Bharty, Deepa H. Dwivedi, R.B. Ram and Maya Ram (2023). Effect of different Planting Dates and Genotypes on Flowering, Fruiting and Fruit Quality of Cape Gooseberry (Physalis peruviana L.) under Sub-tropical Region. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 15(8a): 514-520.'),(7371,'165','Postharvest Management and Value Addition of Grapes Vitis vinifera var. Muscat Hamburg','Fathima A., Janavi G.J., Saraswathy S., Vani V. and Anitha T. ','Postharvest-Management-and-Value-Addition-of-Grapes-Vitis-vinifera-var.-Muscat-Hamburg-Fathima-A-15.pdf','',1,'Grapes (Vitis vinifera L.) is a sub-tropical fruit crop, rich in beneficial anti-oxidants, vitamins, minerals and micronutrients. As grapes are highly perishable, the postharvest management plays an essential role in increasing the shelf life. Hence, research was taken up by keeping grapes under cold and ambient storage conditions during 2022-23. The freshly harvested grapes Vitis vinifera var. Muscat Hamburg was treated with EFF (0%, 2.5%, 5.0%, 7.5%, 10.0%) for 10 mins and stored under ambient (28°C±2°C, RH 60±10%) and cold storage (12°C±2°C, RH 90±5%) conditions and the physiological characters were evaluated. The EFF at 2.5% concentration recorded the minimum physiological loss in weight (1.31%), higher firmness (3.28 N) with increased shelf life of 21 days at cold storage, while nine days shelf life under ambient storage condition. The EFF treated fruits had low TSS (18.1°Brix), indicating improved fruit quality during cold storage as against TSS of 19.3°Brix at ambient storage. Overall, the results clearly indicates that the EFF treated and shrink wrapped grape var. Muscat Hamburg showed delay in ripening process and had an extended shelf-life. ','EFF (Enhanced Freshness Formulation) - Grapes–Postharvest management- Shrink wrap- Storage','On the basis of this research findings, it can be concluded that EFF treatment has very good effect in extending shelf-life of grapes Vitis vinifera var. Muscat Hamburg. Treatment of grape bunches by EFF dip (2.5%), followed by shrink wrapping is found effective for increasing the shelf life with the minimum physiological loss in weight, TSS and with the maximum fruit firmness of grape berries.','-','Fathima A., Janavi G.J., Saraswathy S., Vani V. and Anitha T. (2023). Postharvest Management and Value Addition of Grapes Vitis vinifera var. Muscat Hamburg. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 15(9): 95-98.\r\n'),(7372,'164','Evaluation of Different Wine varieties of Grapes Grafted on Dogridge Rootstocks','Patel Nidhi, Nitin Soni, Praveen Kumar Ausari, K.C. Meena, B.K. Patidar, Dharmendra Patidar, Ajay Haldar and Riya Thakur\r\n','Evaluation-of-Different-Wine-varieties-of-Grapes-Grafted-on-Dogridge-Rootstocks-Praveen-Kumar-Ausari-85.pdf','',1,'An experiment was conducted in order to study the performance of different wine varieties grafted on Dogridge rootstock carried out during the year 2019-20 at Research farm, College of Horticulture, Mandsaur, Madhya Pradesh. The experiment conducted in factorial randomized block design with three replications. Grapes grafted of sixteen wine varieties on Dogridge Rootstock. Ten red wine varieties i.e., Cinsault, Convent Large Black, Grenache, Tempranillo, Cabernet France, Cabernet Sauvingnon, Shiraz, Sangiovese, Carignane, Tsimlasky Chernyi and six white wine varieties i.e., Chenin Blanc, Sauvignon Blanc, Clariette, Gargenega, Viognier, Sirius. Evaluated, the Shiraz highest pruning weight (2.22 kg), girth of rootstock (6.51 cm) and girth of Scion (7.16 cm) in Chenin Blanc, girth of cane (0.80 cm) in Convent Large Black, number of mature cane per vine (48.30) in Sauvignon Blanc, number of fruitful canes per vine (23.55) in variety Tsimlasky Chernyi, period of panicle appearance (25.59) in shiraz, date of anthesis (41.12 days) in Grenache, days to fruit set (47.17 days) in Cinsault, days to fruit ripening (146.28 days) in variety Gargenega, number of bunches per vine observed in Chenin Blanc (53.12), bunch weight in Tempranillo (101.41 g), Berry weight in Convent Large Black (2.33 g), weight of 100 berries found in Convent Large Black (206.01 g), berry length in Convent Large Black (19.42 mm), berry diameter in Convent Large Black (18.75 mm), Number of seed per berry in Viognier (3.67).','Dogridge, rootstock, grapes, wine varieties','It is concluded that the findings of one year trials the results of present experiment showed that the Dogridge rootstock performed well with respect to different wine varieties of grapes which were grafted over it and has been found most appropriate rootstock under the agro-climatic conditions of Malwa Plateau region for screening the growth, yield, quality and organoleptic parameters of the fruits. The performance of varieties raised on Dogridge rootstock was promising.','-','Patel Nidhi, Nitin Soni, Praveen Kumar Ausari, K.C. Meena, B.K. Patidar, Dharmendra Patidar, Ajay Haldar and Riya Thakur (2023). Evaluation of Different Wine Varieties of Grapes Grafted on Dogridge Rootstocks. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 15(8a): 521-525.'),(7373,'164','Image-Based Phenotyping of Diverse Rice Genotypes under \r\ndifferent Nitrogen Treatments\r\n','Ravi Saini, K.M. Manjaiah, Kapil A. Chobhe, Dhandapani Raju, Naveenkumar A. and Siyaram Meena ','Image-Based-Phenotyping-of-Diverse-Rice-Genotypes-under-Ravi-Saini-86.pdf','',1,'The current study provides a thorough investigation into the phenotypic characteristics of five rice genotypes and explores the possibility of using nano clay polymer/biopolymer composite (NCPC/NCBPC) based nitrogen fertilizers. A greenhouse experiment was conducted using five rice genotypes (Swarna, PB-1, Pusa-44, MTU-1010 and Nagina-22) employing five nitrogen treatments (T1- control (without N fertilizer), T2- 100% RDF of N through urea, T3- 75% RDF of N through urea loaded NCPC, T4- 75% RDF of N through urea loaded NCBPC-I (NCBPC prepared with wheat flour), T5- 75% RDF of N through urea loaded NCBPC-II (NCBPC prepared with maida)). Advanced phenomic techniques, utilizing non-invasive sensors and computer platforms, were employed for precise phenotyping. The results reveal significant variations in plant height, leaf area, and convex hull area across different genotypes and nitrogen treatments. Notably, NCPC treatment showed superior performance, followed by NCBPC-II, NCBPC-I and urea, highlighting its potential to improve plant growth. The study highlights the importance of understanding morphological traits for the development of nitrogen-efficient rice varieties and the potential of nano clay polymer based nitrogen fertilizers. ','Nitrogen use efficiency, Genotype, Phenotype, Polymer, Sensors','The plant height, leaf surface area and convex hull of a plant is an inherent trait for image-based phenotyping which can be the basis for screening of rice genotypes and monitoring the development of rice plants. This study also delves into the potential of clay polymer composites as slow release nitrogen fertilizers where NCPC/NCBPC based nitrogen fertilizers better performed over the conventional urea fertilizer in terms of plant growth and development. This study holds great promise for future advancements in sustainable agriculture, offering the potential for more efficient, high-yielding rice varieties and development of more efficient nitrogen fertilizers that can address global food security challenges.','-','Ravi Saini, K.M. Manjaiah, Kapil A. Chobhe, Dhandapani Raju, Naveenkumar A. and Siyaram Meena (2023). Image-Based Phenotyping of Diverse Rice Genotypes under Different Nitrogen Treatments. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 15(8a): 526-530.'),(7374,'165','Nutrient Management in Potato (Solanum tuberosum L.) through Evaluation of the Fertility Status of Soils in Satpura Zone of Madhya Pradesh','Bharti Choudhary, Rahul Dongre, Sant Kumar Sharma and Sandhya Bakode','Nutrient-Management-in-Potato-(Solanum-tuberosum-L.-)-through--Evaluation-of-the-Fertility-Status-of-Soils-in-Satpura-Zone-of-Madhya-Pradesh-Bharti-Choudhary-16.pdf','',1,'Excessive or imbalanced fertilization has not only decreased nutrient use efficiency but also degraded arable land and posed a great threat to the environment. Potato productivity in India is static due to unbalanced use of nutrients and intensive cropping system. Nutrient use efficiency and yield can be increased by application of nutrients based on quantitative approaches. The QUEFTS basically works on the principle of NPK nutrient interactions and climate-adjusted yield potential of a region. Presented study was under taken to find out the quantitative evaluation of fertility of tropical soils (QUEFTS) model for the estimation of NPK requirements for different targeted yields of potato was conducted in 2018 to 2020. The experiment was undertaken in Randomized Block Design with three replications and three fertilizer level i.e. 75 %, 100% & 125% of recommended dose of NPK (RDF 120:100:100 kg/ha NPK) at Zonal Agriculture Research Station, Chhindwara with the target for achieving 30 t/ha yield target under QUEFTS model. On the basis of soil testing results, NPK as per QUEFT model (62.5:106.2:75 kg/ha NPK) for variety Kufri Pukhraj recorded economically maximum total yield (34.47 t/ha) along with net return Rs. 3,20,812/- and B:C ratio was recorded 3.46, plant emergence (93.25%), number of leaves/plant (130.5), Number of shoot/plant (10.5) are also recorded maximum among other nutrient levels. Whereas without QUEFT model 100% RDF of NPK (120:100:100 kg NPK/ha) recorded 32.67 t/ha yield with 3.17B:C ratio. ','NPK, QUEFT, model and Potato','As per QUEFT model, application of 62.5:106.2:75 kg/ha NPK for achieving 30 t/ha yield target with variety Kufri Pukhraj recorded economically highest yield (34.00 t/ha) along with net return of Rs. 3, 20,812/- and the BC ratio was recorded 3.46. At present, the soil test based recommendations are relatively on a stronger footing. This method not only indicates soil test based fertilizer dose but also the level of yield the farmer can hope to achieve if good agronomy is followed in raising the crop. It provides the scientific basis for balanced fertilization not only between the fertilizer nutrients themselves but also that with the soil available nutrients. When fertilizer availability is limited or the resources of the farmers are also’ limited, planning far moderate yield targets which are, at the same time, higher than the yield levels normally obtained by the farmer provides means, far saturating mare areas with the available fertilizers and ensuring increased total production also.','-','Bharti Choudhary, Rahul Dongre, Sant Kumar Sharma and Sandhya Bakode (2023). Nutrient Management in Potato (Solanum tuberosum L.) through Evaluation of the Fertility Status of Soils in Satpura Zone of Madhya Pradesh. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 15(9): 99-103.'),(7375,'165','Impact of Salinity and Copper Stress on the Growth and Physiology of Cyanobacteria: A Comparative Study','Shivaranjan C.S. and G. Abraham','Impact-of-Salinity-and-Copper-Stress-on-the-Growth-and-Physiology-of-Cyanobacteria-A-Comparative-Study-Shivaranjan-CS-17.pdf','',1,'In this present study, we delved into the intricate world of Anabaena doliolum, a nitrogen-fixing cyanobacterium, to investigate how it copes with the combined stressors of salinity and copper exposure. Our study revealed that both salinity and copper stress lead to a significant reduction in growth and key cellular components, including protein, chlorophyll, and phycocyanin. The stress induced by salinity and copper was further evidenced by a decrease in the average filament length and heterocyst frequency of A. doliolum. Salinity treatment was found to enhance the activity of the nitrogen assimilation enzyme, nitrate reductase, while glutamine synthetase and nitrogenase exhibited significant inhibition in their activities. Conversely, copper treatment led to a decrease in the activity of all three nitrogen assimilation enzymes. The deleterious effects on growth, cellular components, and nitrogen assimilation enzymes were exacerbated when A. doliolum was exposed to both salt and copper simultaneously. Both individual and combined exposure to salt and copper was observed to stimulate the activity of antioxidant enzymes, including superoxide dismutase, ascorbate peroxidase, and catalase, as well as the accumulation of proline in the cyanobacterium. The study encountered several challenges, including the necessity to evaluate the synergistic effects of salinity and copper on A. doliolum, as well as the complex interplay of multiple physiological variables under stress conditions. These findings have advanced our understanding of how nitrogen-fixing cyanobacteria respond to the concurrent influence of multiple stressors, with potential implications for the ecological and environmental management of rice fields and similar ecosystems.','Cyanobacterium, Salinity stress, Copper stress, N assimilation enzymes, Antioxidant enzymes','Cyanobacteria are significant bioinoculants in agriculture because of their specific ability to transform atmospheric nitrogen into ammonia using solar energy. Extreme temperatures, anaerobiosis, salt, drought, pesticides, and heavy metals are just a few of the environmental challenges that these microbes have evolved to survive. Abiotic stresses such as salinity and heavy metal pollution in rice fields, however, make it difficult to exploit them. In this work, the nitrogen-fixing cyanobacterium Anabaena doliolum is exposed to salt and copper, and their combined effects are investigated. The findings show that both stresses reduced growth as well as biological components including protein, chlorophyll, and phycocyanin. Furthermore, the A. doliolum average filament length and heterocyst frequency decreased as a result of the stress caused by salt and copper. Although salt treatment increased the activity of the enzyme responsible for assimilating nitrogen, nitrate reductase, the other two enzymes, glutamine synthetase and nitrogenase, demonstrated a decrease in activity. All three of the main nitrogen assimilation enzymes\' activities were shown to be reduced by the copper treatment. The detoxification of free radicals depends heavily on antioxidant enzymes. Superoxide dismutase, ascorbate peroxidase, and catalase activities were increased when the cyanobacterium A. doliolum was individually and simultaneously exposed to salt and copper. Proline buildup by the cyanobacterium has had similar outcomes.','-','Shivaranjan C.S. and G. Abraham (2023). Impact of Salinity and Copper Stress on the Growth and Physiology of Cyanobacteria: A Comparative Study. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 15(9): 104-113.'),(7376,'165','Protective Effect of Curcumin and Ascorbic acid Against Lead acetate Induced Cardiotoxicopathology in Wistar Rats','Karthik I., Dubey A., Swamy M., Tiwari A., Verma Y., Naveen D. and Rakesh S. ','Protective-Effect-of-Curcumin-and-Ascorbic-acid-Against-Lead-acetate-Induced-Cardiotoxicopathology-in-Wistar-Rats-Karthik-18.pdf','',1,'Lead is a potential toxic heavy metal that exhibits deteriorating effects on various organ systems of body. Accordingly, the present study was aimed to investigate the ameliorative effect of of curcumin and ascorbic acid against lead induced cardiotoxicopathology in Wistar rats. Thirty-two Wistar rats of 6-8 weeks of age were randomly divided into four groups with eight rats each, as (Group-I) control group, (Group-II) (150 mg/kg b.wt. lead acetate), (Group-III) (150 mg/kg b.wt. lead-acetate, 400 mg/kg b.wt. curcumin and 420 mg/kg b.wt. ascorbic acid) and Group-IV (400 mg/kg b.wt. curcumin and 420 mg/kg b.wt. ascorbic acid). All the experimental groups received oral treatments for 30 consecutive days. Significant increase in blood lead level, serum AST, ALT, CKMB, cardiac troponin I (cTnI) and cardiac tissue MDA level was observed in group II rats. Significant histopathological findings (myocardial necrosis, vacuolation, fibrosis and loss of cross striations) were observed in group II rats. Administration of curcumin and ascorbic acid against lead acetate in group III rats showed significant amelioration in lead induced cardiotoxicity via decrease in cardiac troponin I and cardiac tissue MDA level along with significant improvement in histo-architecture of heart. Thus, the present study revealed that lead exposure has toxic effects on heart which disturb its functioning, while natural these antioxidants may be preferable in reducing lead induced cardiotoxicity suggesting that chelating agents having antioxidant properties are preferred in treating cardiovascular disorders accompanying lead toxicity.','Cardiotoxicity, Lead acetate, Curcumin, Ascorbic acid, ECG, Histopathology','In conclusion, the present investigation enunciated that lead acetate induced the significant cardiotoxicity due to the excess generation of free radicals and impairment of antioxidant defences that subsequently resulted in significant alterations in several parameters pertaining to heart. Use of curcumin and ascorbic acid countered the adverse effects of lead induced cardiotoxicity to a major extent suggesting its antioxidant potential owing to depletion of tissue pool of MDA. Also, this study suggested that lead chelating agents having antioxidant properties are preferred in treating cardiovascular disorders accompanying lead toxicity.','-','Karthik I., Dubey A., Swamy M., Tiwari A., Verma Y., Naveen D. and Rakesh S. (2023). Protective Effect of Curcumin and Ascorbic acid Against Lead acetate Induced Cardiotoxicopathology in Wistar Rats. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 15(9): 114-122.'),(7377,'165','Efficacy of Nutrient Supplementation in Managing Groundnut Late Leaf Spot Disease Incidence through Root Feeding','Vineela D.R.S., Patibanda A.K., Prasanna Kumari V., Sreekanth B. and Nafeez Umar S.K. ','Efficacy-of-Nutrient-Supplementation-in-Managing-Groundnut-Late-Leaf-Spot-Disease-Incidence-through-Root-Feeding-Vineela-19.pdf','',1,'Groundnut late leaf spot disease, being an endemic foliar disease requires constant vigilance as well as frequent fungicide applications in order to sustain production. Excess fungicide usage owing to drift losses adds chemical load to environment emphasizing eco-friendly management strategy. Mineral nutrition as an effective alternative disease management strategy had wide scope but it is highly specific to plant as well as pathogen. In order to learn nutrients role in groundnut late leaf spot disease management, four nutrients K, S, Mg and Cu were selected and were studied by hydroponic sand culture using artificial inoculation with conidial suspension (@ 1 × 106 conidia/ ml) at 20 DAS and 35 DAS. 100 per cent Hoagland and Arnon (1950) nutrient solution was taken as base (control), twice or thrice the strength of respective nutrient over 100 per cent nutrient solution as treatments and were compared with chemical treated seeds sown in 100 per cent nutrient solution (tebuconazole 0.1%) as fungicidal check. CuSO4 at thrice strength resulted in phyto-toxicity and hence deleted as treatment. CuSO4 twice the strength had similar affect as fungicidal check (6.33 and 9.67 days) in delaying incubation (6.33 days) and latent periods (8.67 days) while KNO¬3 thrice the strength, MgSO4 thrice the strength has similar effect as fungicidal check (2.00/ leaf and 1.00 mm) with respect to lesion number (3.00/leaf) and lesion diameter (1.00 mm) resulting in lesser AUDPC values as fungicidal check compared to absolute control (4 days incubation period, 7.33 days latent period, 10.33 lesions/leaf, 2.50 mm diameter). SOD and POD enzyme activities showed similar trend corresponding to incubation period and latent period when comparing antioxidant enzyme activity of nutrient supplemented treatments with fungicidal check indicating that adequate amount of nutrient supplementation to plants offers tolerance to fungal infection through altered antioxidant enzyme activity. ','Anti oxidant enzyme, Groundnut, Late leaf spot disease, Mineral nutrition, POD, SOD','Fungicidal check, KNO3 thrice the strength, MgSO4 thrice the strength and CuSO4 twice the strength showed similar range of per cent reduction of late leaf spot lesion number over control and lesser AUDPC values compared to control. SOD and POD enzyme activities showed similar trend corresponding to incubation period and latent period when comparing antioxidant enzyme activity of nutrient supplemented treatments with fungicidal check indicating that adequate amount of nutrient supplementation to plants offers tolerance to fungal infection through altered antioxidant enzyme activity. ','-','Vineela D.R.S., Patibanda A.K., Prasanna Kumari V., Sreekanth B. and Nafeez Umar S.K. (2023). Efficacy of Nutrient Supplementation in Managing Groundnut Late Leaf Spot Disease Incidence through Root Feeding. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 15(9): 123-130.'),(7378,'165','Changes in Soil Physical Properties and Available Micronutrients as Influenced by Tillage and Weed Management Strategies under Diversified Cropping System','Knight Nthebere, T. Ram Prakash, G. Jayasree, B. Padmaja, A. Meena and P.C. Latha ','Changes-in-Soil-Physical-Properties-and-Available-Micronutrients-as-Influenced-by-Tillage-and-Weed-Management-Strategies-under-Diversified-Cropping-System-Knight-Nthebere-20.pdf','',1,'The degradation of the soil caused by intensive tillage operations is a considerable solicitude for the sustainable crop production in Southern Telangana Zone (STZ), India. The farmers have adopted cotton and maize production under conventional agricultural practices which is well-known to have a bearing on soil depletion. Thus, conservation agriculture (CA) practices are necessitated to monitor the changes on important soil physical properties viz., soil particle size distribution (soil texture), soil bulk density (SBD), maximum water holding capacity (MWHC), total porosity (TP) and soil available DTPA extractable micronutrients viz., manganese (Mn), iron (Fe), copper (Cu) and zinc (Zn) as influenced by tillage practices and weed management options after harvest of monsoon cotton and winter maize crops (after third year) with CA. Three tillages (main treatments); T1: conventional (CT) – conventional (CT) – fallow, T2: CT – zero tillage (ZT) – zero tillage (ZT) and T3: triple ZT + residue retention (R) and weed management (sub-treatments): herbicides (W1 and W2), W3: integrated weed management (IWM) and W4: unweeded were laid in split-plot design. soil samples collected at 0 –15 cm, post-harvest of monsoon cotton and winter maize were analysed for soil physical properties and available micronutrients and SBD was determined in-field at 0 –15 and 15 – 30 cm soil depth by following the standard protocols. The salient findings were: higher availability of DTPA extractable micronutrients in the order; Fe > Mn > Zn > Cu in monsoon cotton than winter maize after harvest, greater MWHC (8.05% – 8.43%), SBD (5.38% – 11.51%) in 0 – 15 cm after maize, but reduced SBD (4.88%) in 15 – 30 cm soil depth after cotton, and a reduction in TP (3.66% – 6.68%) under conservation tillage (T3) by both crops compared to the initial values and T1. The soil textural class was sandy clay loam. Weed management treatments did not have any significant variation in general. These results indicate the advocacy of conservation tillage (T3) as a win-win for restoring the degraded soils in STZ of India.','Soil health, Soil quality, Conservation Agriculture, Soil degradation, Soil properties, Conservation tillage','Conservation tillage (T3) enhanced all DTPA extractable micronutrients with manganese (Mn) and iron (Fe) contents higher than copper (Cu) and zinc (Zn), increased maximum water holding capacity (MWHC), soil bulk density (SBD) after maize, but reduced SBD (15 – 30 cm soil depth) after cotton, and decreased total porosity (TP) after harvest of both crops compared to the initial values and other tillage practices. Soil texture was classified into sandy loam soil. The influence of weed management on some soil physical properties and soil micronutrients availability remain unknown. Thus, this current study gives an idea about best management practices to be followed as far as tillage and weed management practices are concerned for maintaining soil health, reducing soil degradation and sustaining crop production under cotton – maize – Sesbania rotation systems. ','-','Knight Nthebere, T. Ram Prakash, G. Jayasree, B. Padmaja, A. Meena and P.C. Latha (2023). Changes in Soil Physical Properties and Available Micronutrients as Influenced by Tillage and Weed Management Strategies under Diversified Cropping System. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 15(9): 131-140.'),(7379,'165','Hindrance Factors for the Success and Sustainability of FPO’s in Tamilnadu – Opinion of CEO’s and BOD’s of Farmer Producer Organization','Navisha B. and Shanthasheela M. ','Hindrance-Factors-for-the-Success-and-Sustainability-of-FPOs-in-Tamilnadu-Opinion-of-CEOs-and-BODs-of-Farmer-Producer-Organization-Shanthasheela-M-21.pdf','',1,'Farmer Producer Organizations (FPOs) have played a significant role in the transformation of Tamil Nadu\'s agricultural sector. FPOs works to empower farmers by pooling resources, expanding market access, and encouraging group decision-making, hold the promise for sustainable rural development. FPOs, however, encounter few challenges, with significant undertakings. A study was conducted among BODs and CEOs of 101 registered FPOs of Tamil Nadu in the year 2023 to determine the factors that prevent the success and sustainability of FPOs. Constraints are the obstacles that made difficult for the successful functioning of FPOs. The study was carried out under six different domains such as input supply, marketing, financial, governance, social and economic constraints. The primary data collected was analysed using Problem Confrontation Index. It was observed from the study that the main input constraint experienced by FPO was a significant rise in input demand during the monsoon, with a PCI value of 574. Under financial constraint, lack of understanding of the procedures regarding loan applications with a PCI value of 456 ranks first. Less number of trainings and coordination work, both placed first with high PCI values under the social and governance domains, respectively, while high variation in produce comes in first place under the marketing sector with a PCI score of 537. The lower market price was the major significant economic challenge. The observations provided by CEOs and BODs also highlight the FPOs tenacity, fidelity, and inventiveness. By tackling all these obstacles collectively, FPOs may be sustain and successful. In order to achieve long-term profitability, FPOs should prioritize strategic planning, leveraging technology for better market access, and building robust networks among their members. Experts should also give proper legislative frameworks, financial support, and specialized capacity-building programs to help FPOs run successfully and manage these challenges.','Farmer Producer Organisation, Problem Confrontation Index, Constraints, Chief Executive Officer, Board of Directors','The study was made to highlight the challenges faced by CEOs and BODs of FPOs. The results led to the conclusion that sudden rises in demand of inputs on the onset of monsoon (PCI, 574); lack of knowledge procedure in obtaining loan from bank/cooperative societies (PCI,456); lack of coordination (PCI, 285); lack of training (PCI, 540); high fluctuations in the price of produce (PCI, 537); and low market prices (PCI, 526) were perceived as severe challenges by CEOs and BODs among the domains of input supply, finance, governance, social, marketing, and economic constraint. Through coordinated and integrated efforts to strengthen FPOs, the severity of these constraints may be decreased. All supporting organisations (NABARD, SFAC, NCDC, State Department of Agriculture, National Horticulture Mission, National Horticulture Board, ICAR, SAUs, e-NAM, private organisations, NGOs, etc.) should work together and aid struggling FPOs. Integrate their approaches to develop essential infrastructure such as poly houses, shade nets, warehouses, packing houses, cold storage, refrigerated vans, mobile vans, etc., to become successful.\r\nTo surmount these limitations, it necessitates the formulation of well-thought-out strategies, bolstering the capabilities of individuals involved, gaining access to expert guidance, establishing connections with pertinent stakeholders, and demonstrating an unwavering dedication to ongoing learning and adaptability. Furthermore, forging partnerships and alliances among Farmer Producer Organizations (FPOs), governmental bodies, non-governmental organizations (NGOs), and private enterprises can prove highly effective in tackling some of these hurdles more efficiently. The success of FPOs depends on efficient financial management, visionary leadership, sound governance, members involvement, viable market strategies, sound business plan, soft skills and digital marketing.\r\n','-','Navisha B. and Shanthasheela M. (2023). Hindrance Factors for the Success and Sustainability of FPO’s in Tamilnadu – Opinion of CEO’s and BOD’s of Farmer Producer Organization. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 15(9): 141-148.'),(7380,'163','Biological Evaluation of Artocarpus altilis (Parkinson) Fosberg','Meera Sabari V., Beena Lawrence, T. Citarasu, Mithuna S.K., Adarsh Shiju S., Gayathri V.J., Saran Babu B. ','Biological-Evaluation-of-Artocarpus-altilis-(Parkinson)-Fosberg-Meera-Sabari-V-85.pdf','',1,'An emerging infectious disease is an infectious disease whose incidence has increased in the past 20 years and could increase in the near future. Search for therapeutic drugs against these diseases is progressing and is the need of the hour. Therefore, the present study was conducted to evaluate the bioefficacy of Artocarpus altilis fruits against various human pathogens such as Klebsiella pneumonia, Streptococcus mutans, Lactobacillus sps, Bacillus subtilis and Enterococcus faecalis and also to determine the presence of active compounds in the fruit through GC MS analysis. Further more, molecular docking was also conducted to study the interaction of molecules. Klebsiella pneumonia and Streptococcus mutans were found more sensitive towards fruit extract with a zone of inhibition of 19mm. The major peak area percentage reported through GC MS analysis was 12.75 and the corresponding compound was found to be Tris ( tert-butyl dimethylsilyloxy). ','Artocarpus altilis, Bioefficacy, GC MS','The present study revealed the bioefficacy of Artocarpus altilis (Parkinson) Fosberg fruits in terms of antimicrobial activity brought about by the presence of various compounds detected by GC MS.','-','Meera Sabari V., Beena Lawrence, T. Citarasu, Mithuna S.K., Adarsh Shiju S., Gayathri V.J., Saran Babu B. (2023). Biological Evaluation of Artocarpus altilis (Parkinson) Fosberg. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 15(5a): 549-552.'),(7381,'165','Folic Acid Supplementation on Piglets Immunity','Suresh R. and A.K. Verma','Folic-Acid-Supplementation-on-Piglets-Immunity-Suresh-R-22.pdf','',1,'This experiment was conducted to study the effect of dietary folic acid supplementation on cell mediated (CM) and humoral immune (HI) response in growing piglets born to sow fed diet with or without supplemental folic acid during gestation and lactation. After weaning, eighteen piglets (Landlly) from each group (T0, T1 and T2) were selected and randomly sub-divided into 3 sub-groups of 6 each in an experiment based on 3×3 factorial design. The treatments were; D0O0, D0O1, D0O2, D1O0, D1O1, D1O2, D2O0, D2O1 and D2O2, where, D0: Dam with no supplementation of folic acid (FA); D1: Dam with FA supplementation during gestation (@15 mg/kg of feed); D2: Dam with FA supplementation during gestation and lactation both (@15 mg/kg of feed); O0: Offspring with no supplementation of FA; O1: Offspring with FA supplementation @ 2.5 mg/kg of feed and O2: Offspring with FA supplementation @ 5.0 mg/kg of feed. The CMI and HI response was assessed 150 days of post-weaning. The cell-mediated and humoral immunity were significantly higher (P<0.01) in folic acid supplemented groups in comparison to control (D0O0) group. The humoral immunity (HI) response, was better (P<0.01) in D0O2, D1O2, D2O1 and D2O2 groups when compared to D0O0. Thus, based on the results concerning to CMI and HI response it is evident that postnatal folic acid supplementation at 2.5 or 5.0 mg/kg feed is beneficial in terms of better immunity. ','Cell mediated, Humoral, Immune, Piglets','Based on the study results, it could be concluded that post-natal folic acid supplementation @ 2.5 and 5.0 mg/kg diet improved the immunity of piglets born from dam which had dietary supplementation of folic acid (@ 15 mg/kg feed) both during gestation and lactation. Hence, based on the results evinced in this study, for an improved and economical productivity in piggery, folic acid supplementation both at gestational and lactational stage for sows (@ 15 mg/kg feed) and for progeny folic acid supplementation (@ 2.5 mg/kg diet) may be used as potential feed additive for grower-finisher pigs.','-','Suresh R. and A.K. Verma (2023). Folic Acid Supplementation on Piglets Immunity. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 15(9): 149-152.'),(7382,'165','Effect of Gibberellic Acid and Hand Pollination on Quality Parameters of Custard apple (Annona squamosa L.) cv. Arka Sahan','Anil Khinchi, R.A. Kaushik, Virendra Singh, Vinod Saharan, Abhay Dashora and Shaifali Tanwar ','Effect-of-Gibberellic-Acid-and-Hand-Pollination-on-Quality-Parameters-of-Custard-apple-(Annona-squamosa-L.)-cv.-Arka-Sahan-RA-Kaushik-23.pdf','',1,'The current study on the “Effect of Gibberellic Acid and Hand Pollination on the Quality Parameters of custard apple (Annona squamosa L.) cv. Arka Sahan” was carried out at Krishi Vigyan Kendra, Chittorgarh and Rajasthan College of Agriculture, MPUAT, Udaipur. The experiment was carried out in Randomized Block Design (RBD) with ten treatments and three replications. The results indicated that treatment T8 (GA3 150 ppm + hand pollination) gave maximum reducing sugar, non-reducing sugar, total sugar and ascorbic acid while these parameters were minimum in T1 (control). The titratable acidity was maximum (0.42 %) in T2 (hand pollination) and lowest in T1 (control). Maximum TSS (28.02°B) was observed in T9 (GA3 200 ppm + hand pollination). Hence, it is concluded that treatment, T8 (GA3 150 ppm + hand pollination) was found overall best with respect to the quality parameters of custard apple.','Custard apple, Arka Sahan, Gibberellic acid, Hand pollination, Quality parameters','On the basis of the results obtained in the present investigation it is concluded that the use of GA3 with hand pollination promoted the improved of fruit quality i.e., TSS, titratable acidity, ascorbic acid, total sugar, reducing sugar, non-reducing sugar and hand pollination had a synergistic effect with gibberellic acid. The best treatment was T8 at GA3150 ppm with hand pollination, which gave best quality of fruit. Further research is needed to understand the underlying mechanisms and to optimize the concentration and timing of GA3 application and hand pollination to enhance the quality parameters.','-','Anil Khinchi, R.A. Kaushik, Virendra Singh, Vinod Saharan, Abhay Dashora and Shaifali Tanwar (2023). Effect of Gibberellic Acid and Hand Pollination on Quality Parameters of Custard apple (Annona squamosa L.) cv. Arka Sahan. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 15(9): 153-155.'),(7383,'165','Biology and Predatory potential of Neoseiulus longispinosus Evans on Tetranychus urticae Koch','Ranjitha V., Sumathi E., Baskaran V., Senthil A. and Sankari A. ','Biology-and-Predatory-potential-of-Neoseiulus-longispinosus-Evans-on-Tetranychus-urticae-Koch-Ranjitha-V-24.pdf','',1,'Tetranychus urticae Koch is a polyphagous mite pest infests various agricultural and horticultural crops. Neoseiulus longispinosus (Evans) is a potential predator on Tetranychus urticae. Experiments were carried out on the biology and to evaluate the predatory potential of N. longispinosus on T. urticae reared on lablab under laboratory. The developmental duration from egg to adult of N. longispinosus was 4.625±0.1874 days. The mean developmental duration of female predatory mite was 4.88±0.09 days and male predatory mite was 4.75±0.06 days respectively. The ovipositional period and longevity of the female and male predatory mite was 10.05±0.436 days, 16.35± 0.9988 days and 19.91±0.5286 days respectively. The total fecundity of N. longispinosus was about 16.2±1.0678 numbers respectively. The predatory mite mostly preferred larval stages of T. urticae when compared to nymphs and adults. The total number of prey consumed by N. longispinosus was 166.01±12.23. The prey consumption rate was higher at temperature 30ºC when compared with 28ºC. Maximum predation was observed at 30˚C i.e. 13.38±0.10 for nymphs and 9.50±0.27 for adults when prey density was 40 nymphs and 40 adults respectively. This present study would help to identify the effectiveness and performance of N. longispinosus against red spider mite, T. urticae. ','Biology, Predatory potential, Neoseiulus longispinosus, Tetranychus urticae, functional and numerical response','The results of the study revealed that, N. longispinosus was an effective biocontrol agent of T. urticae. It shown higher predation rates at temperatures 30ºC. Overall performance of N. longispinosus satisfy the main requirements for a biological control program to be success. Hence, there is a need to focus on successful mass culturing techniques and field efficacy studies of N. longispinosus for utilising this species in integrated mite management programmes. Further, predatory mites could be used as an alternative to acaricides which helps in reducing the hazards and pollution caused these chemicals.','-','Ranjitha V., Sumathi E., Baskaran V., Senthil A. and Sankari A. (2023). Biology and Predatory potential of Neoseiulus longispinosus Evans on Tetranychus urticae Koch. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 15(9): 156-162.'),(7384,'165','Silkworm Rearing and Cocoon Parameters: Implications for Quality Silk Production in Southern Karnataka','Akarsha M.R., Harshitha C., Aarushi Sharma and Devika Sharma ','Silkworm-Rearing-and-Cocoon-Parameters-Implications-for-Quality-Silk-Production-in-Southern-Karnataka-Akarsha-MR-25.pdf','',1,'Sericulture, the cultivation of silkworms (Bombyx mori L.) for silk production, is an integral part of rural socio-economic development in India. With an emphasis on the importance of mulberry leaves\' quality in cocoon production, the study evaluates the impact of these leaves on the growth and development of Bombyx mori L. silkworms. The research was conducted in the Mysuru district, focusing on five farmers and assessing multiple post-cocoon parameters, including cocoon, pupae, and shell weights, as well as filament length, denier, and renditta. Findings highlighted variations among farmers in various metrics. For instance, Farmer-2 had the highest matured larval weight, while Farmer-3 exhibited the highest cocoon weight. Moreover, the quality of silk and cocoon parameters were found to be directly influenced by the nutritive status of mulberry leaves. The study\'s outcomes concur with previous research, underscoring the significance of the right silkworm-mulberry combination for achieving optimal silk quality.','Sericulture, silkworm, cocoon parameters, farmers','Sericulture, the practice of rearing silkworms for silk, plays a vital role in rural socio-economic development. This study\'s findings align with previous research on the optimal combinations of silkworms and mulberries for premium silk production, suggesting that the V1 mulberry variety leads to superior larval weight, cocoon weight, and other silk qualities. In contrast, the M5 mulberry variety produced inferior results. By addressing these specific areas and continuously monitoring results, custom-tailored training sessions can be provided based on each farmer\'s strengths and weaknesses to provide more consistent and improved quality of silk production in the future.','-','Akarsha M.R., Harshitha C., Aarushi Sharma and Devika Sharma (2023). Silkworm Rearing and Cocoon Parameters: Implications for Quality Silk Production in Southern Karnataka. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 15(9): 163-167.'),(7385,'165','Effect of Indole-3-Butyric Acid (IBA) and Different Growing Media on Hardwood Cutting of Grapes (Vitis vinifera L.) cv. Pusa Navrang','Praveen Kumar Ausari, Nitin Soni, R.N. Kanpure, K.C. Meena and Ajay Haldar','Effect-of-Indole-3-Butyric-Acid-(IBA)-and-Different-Growing-Media-on-Hardwood-Cutting-of-Grapes-(Vitis-vinifera-L.)-cv.-Pusa-Navrang-Nitin-Soni-26.pdf','',1,'The present study was conducted at Research Farm, College of Horticulture, Mandsaur, Madhya Pradesh during 2020-21. The experiment was laid out using Factorial RBD with IBA treatments (i.e. 0, 2000, 4000 and 6000 ppm) and different growing media (Soil, sand, Cocopeat, Soil + Sand + FYM, Soil + Sand + Vermicompost) under net house condition in poly bags. The different observations was recorded i.e. Shoot Parameters like shoot length, internodal length, number of buds per shoot, stem fresh weight, stem dry weight. Root Parameters like number of primary and secondary roots, root length, fresh weight of root, dry weight of root. Leaf Parameters like number of leaves per plant, fresh weight of leaf, dry weight of leaf, leaf area index (LAI). The hardwood cuttings when treated with IBA 6000 ppm and planted in Soil + Sand + Vermicompost had recorded significantly highest shoot and root growth in grapes. The best result was found for shoot parameter like shoot length (10.33 cm, 75 cm), number of nodes per shoot (7.71, 21.40), internodal length (3.21 cm,7.18 cm), number of buds per shoot (15.00, 32.55), stem diameter (19.34 mm, 29.32 mm) at 60 and 90 DAP, stem fresh weight (18.21g), stem dry weight (7.98 g) at 90 DAP. Root Parameters like number of primary (24.20, 38.59) and secondary roots (21.09, 32.43), root length (25.49 cm, 30.45 cm), root thickness (1.96 mm and 2.12 mm), whole root volume (22.36 cm2 and 29.47 cm2) at 60 and 90 DAP, fresh weight of root (6.93 g), dry weight of root (3.05g) at 90 DAP. Leaf Parameters like number of leaves per plant (13.86, 33.09) at 60 and 90 DAP, fresh weight of leaf (1.81 g), dry weight of leaf (0.86 g), leaf area (77.85 cm2), leaf area index (4.49), specific leaf weight (31.62 mg Dw.cm-2) at 90 DAP, while minimum days taken to emergence of 1st leaf (19.67 DAP) found in soil + sand + vermicompost with IBA @ 6000 ppm (M5G3).','IBA, Growing Media, Hardwood, Grapes and Pusa Navrang','The study concludes that production of guava plants in net house condition proved to be the best for rapid and cheapest method multiplication of grapes true-to-type plants. The application of growing media soil + sand + vermicompost 1:1:1 along with IBA 6000 ppm was observed significantly superior for growth (rooting and shooting characteristics) in hard wood cutting of grapes. The plants produced by this technique will be true-to-type. These plants will bear earlier than the seedlings. The unique characters of a variety can be preserved through this technique. The technique was developed in this study is simpler, rapid, less labour intensive and economical, as root promoting hormones are required for root initiation. It is useful as compared to conventional method of propagation (grafting/budding) of grapes because of higher success rate, independence of season and climate, small size of cuttings, use of juvenile shoot cuttings, disease free nature and production of large number of uniform true to mother type plants in a short period of time. ','-','Praveen Kumar Ausari, Nitin Soni, R.N. Kanpure, K.C. Meena and Ajay Haldar (2023). Effect of Indole-3-Butyric Acid (IBA) and Different Growing Media on Hardwood Cutting of Grapes (Vitis vinifera L.) cv. Pusa Navrang. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 15(9): 168-175.'),(7386,'165','Examining the Interactions between Rhizome Size and Treatments on Turmeric (Curcuma longa L.) Cultivar GNT 2','A.V. Barad, Y.A. Viradiya, P.G. Mandod, P.D. Bhankhar and R.B. Mori ','Examining-the-Interactions-between-Rhizome-Size-and-Treatments-Examining-the-Interactions-between-Rhizome-Size-and-Treatments-on-Turmeric-(Curcuma-longa-L.)-Cultivar-GNT-2-AV-Barad-27.pdf','',1,'Examining the Interactions between Rhizome Size and Treatments on Turmeric (Curcuma longa L.) Cultivar GNT 2 was conducted during the Kharif season of 2021-22 at the Department of Seed Technology, Sardarkrushinagar Dantiwada Agricultural University, Sardarkrushinagar. The research employed a Randomized Complete Block Design with three replications and focused on the GNT 2 turmeric variety, evaluating seven different treatments and four combinations of rhizome sizes. Among these, the combination of mother rhizome (R4) and chiller treatment (T4) at 4°C for 2 hours demonstrated the highest values for various traits, including germination percentage (91.11%), plant height (70.29 cm), leaf length (40.14 cm), leaf width (15.22 cm), number of tillers per plant (4.07), mother rhizomes per plant (2.73), primary rhizomes per plant (8.40), secondary rhizomes per plant (10.00), rhizome length (16.63 cm), rhizome width (18.02 cm), and rhizome weight (219.48 g). Understanding and utilizing the interaction effect between rhizome size and treatments is crucial for optimizing turmeric growth and maximizing yield potential. The findings provide valuable insights for improving turmeric cultivation practices and advancing production techniques. However, implementing the precise conditions of optimal rhizome size and chiller treatment in real-world turmeric cultivation poses logistical challenges for farmers, requiring careful consideration and adaptation to practical farming scenarios.','Chiller treatment, Curcuma longa, GNT 2, Mother rhizome','The study findings indicate that both finger and mother rhizomes produced healthy seedlings, but the mother rhizome outperformed due to its ample food reserves, resulting in vigorous growth and higher yields. Optimal seed root size in specific root crops maximizes solar energy utilization, promoting robust seedling and vegetative development for increased yield. Chilling treatment duration played a crucial role in breaking dormancy and enhancing germination and seedling emergence in turmeric. Notably, using mother rhizomes (R4) and finger rhizomes weighing over 35 g significantly improved various growth characteristics. Similarly, employing Chiller treatment (T4) and 2-hour sodium hypochlorite treatment (4%) positively affected germination percentage and other growth attributes. Thus, pre-sowing rhizome treatments can greatly enhance turmeric crop cultivation.','-','A.V. Barad, Y.A. Viradiya, P.G. Mandod, P.D. Bhankhar and R.B. Mori (2023). Examining the Interactions between Rhizome Size and Treatments on Turmeric (Curcuma longa L.) Cultivar GNT 2. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 15(9): 176-179.'),(7387,'165','Biochar as Silicon Inducer and its Effects on Bhendi Mite, Tetranychus cinnabarinus (Boisduval)','A. Nithish Kumar, P. Chandramani, R. Nalini, M. Ananthan and P. Kannan ','Biochar-as-Silicon-Inducer-and-its-Effects-on-Bhendi-Mite,-Tetranychus-cinnabarinus-(Boisduval)-A-Nithish-Kumar-28.pdf','',1,'The use of biochar as organic amendments in order to curtail the pest resurgence and environmental pollution. A field experiment was conducted at Melur village, Madurai district to assess the effectiveness of biochar against the damage caused by Tetranychus cinnabarinus (Boisduval) on okra plants. Treatments involving varying levels of biochar and Rice Husk Ash (RHA) as basal application were supplemented with alternating foliar sprays of 1.0% potassium silicate and 1.0% azadirachtin. The population density of T. cinnabarinus was monitored weekly throughout the crop season. The results of the field experiment revealed that seed treatment of biochar @ 100g/kg of seed + basal application of biochar @75 kg/ha along with foliar spray of 1.0% potassium silicate at 30 and 60 DAS and 1.0% azadirachtin at 45 and 75 DAS (T9) led to a significant reduction in the population of mite. The next best treatments were seed treatment with biochar @ 100g/kg + basal application of RHA @ 75kg/ha along with spraying of potassium silicate and azadirachtin (T10) and standard check, basal application of neem cake 250 kg/ha + Imidacloprid @ 100 ml/ha. The per cent reduction observed was 51.92 % in the treatment T9 over the control where as it was 47.49 % and 46.13 % in T11 and T10 respectively.','Biochar, rice husk ash, potassium silicate, basal application, Tetranychus','Employing basal application of biochar and rice husk ash along with potassium silicate and azadirachtin significantly reduce the population density of mite in bhendi. In the context of organic farming, the incorporation of silicon sources such as biochar could be contemplated as a future consideration for sustainable eco-friendly approaches and mitigating pests under field conditions.','-','A. Nithish Kumar, P. Chandramani, R. Nalini, M. Ananthan and P. Kannan (2023). Biochar as Silicon Inducer and its Effects on Bhendi Mite, Tetranychus cinnabarinus (Boisduval). Biological Forum – An International Journal, 15(9): 180-183.'),(7388,'165','Influence of Enriched Organic Manures and Bio-enhancer on Growth and Yield of Cauliflower (Brassica oleracea var. botrytis)','Pavan K. Patel, Piyush Verma and Pravina P. Solanki ','Influence-of-Enriched-Organic-Manures-and-Bio-enhancer-on-Growth-and-Yield-of-Cauliflower-(Brassica-oleracea-var.-botrytis)-Pavan-K.-Patel-29.pdf','',1,'Conventional farming had a negative impact on soil and plant health. The more use of chemical fertilizers has long-term consequences on soil health, beneficial soil microorganisms and human beings. Therefore, the present investigation entitled “Influence of enriched organic manures and bio-enhancer on growth and yield of cauliflower (Brassica oleracea var. botrytis)’’ was carried out during rabi season, 2020 at College Farm, College of Horticulture, Sardarkrushinagar Dantiwada Agricultural University, Jagudan, Dist. Mehsana, Gujarat. An experiment was laid out in randomized block design with factorial concept with three replications comprised of two factors viz., different organic manures with six level i.e. 80% RDN through FYM (o1), 80% RDN through Poultry manure (o2), 80% RDN through Vermicompost (o3), 60% RDN through FYM (o4), 60% RDN through Poultry manure (o5) and 60% RDN through Vermicompost (o6) and bio-enhancer with two level i.e. NPK consortium @ 5 lit/ha (f1) and Ghan-Jeevamrut @ 250 kg/ha (f2).Among different application of organic manures, 80% RDN through Vermicompost performed significantly superior over other treatment with respect to plant height (30.29 cm), number of leaves per plant (15.80), plant spread of North-South (34.72 cm) and East-West (34.44 cm) at harvest, day taken to curd initiation (39.07) and day taken to curd harvesting (56.57), fresh weight of curd (206.90 g), yield per plot (3.30 kg) and yield per hectare (152.93 q). Among different bio-enhancer, NPK consortium @ 5 lit/ha was found significantly superior with respect to plant height at harvest (27.94 cm), fresh weight of curd (196.10 g), yield per plot (3.13 kg) and yield per hectare (144.91 q). The interaction effect of both organic manures and bio-enhancer found superior with application of 80% RDN through Vermicompost and NPK consortium @ 5 lit/ha with regards to plant height at harvest (33.21 cm), fresh weight of curd (241.63 g), yield per plot (3.85 kg) and yield per hectare (178.40 q).','Organic manures, Bio-enhancer, NPK consortium, cauliflower','From the field study, it can be concluded that in cauliflower, among different application of organic manures, 80% RDN through Vermicompost increased growth and yield. Similarly, among different bio-enhancer, NPK consortium @ 5 lit/ha can enhanced growth and yield of cauliflower. Further, combined effect of 80 per cent RDN through Vermicompost enriched with NPK consortium @ 5 lit/ha produced the higher growth and yield attributes.','-','Pavan K. Patel, Piyush Verma and Pravina P. Solanki (2023). Influence of Enriched Organic Manures and Bio-enhancer on Growth and Yield of Cauliflower (Brassica oleracea var. botrytis). Biological Forum – An International Journal, 15(9): 184-189.'),(7389,'165','Biochemical Variations in Mulberry Leaves: An Analysis Across Growth Stages and Farming Practices','Akarsha M.R., Harshitha C., Aarushi Sharma and Devika Sharma ','Biochemical-Variations-in-Mulberry-Leaves-An-Analysis-Across-Growth-Stages-and-Farming-Practices-Akarsha-MR-30.pdf','',1,'This research examined the variations in the biochemical composition of mulberry leaves, which serve as the primary sustenance for silkworms, by examining leaves across different growth stages and under diverse farming conditions in the Mysuru district. Our findings reveal that while the moisture content of the leaves largely remained consistent irrespective of the growth stage, significant differences were noted in protein, carbohydrate, and chlorophyll concentrations among leaves from different farms. These variations can be attributed to a combination of the growth stage of the leaf and the specific agronomic practices employed by each farmer. The study underscores the profound impact of farming practices on the quality of mulberry leaves, highlighting their importance not just in sericulture but also in potential applications within the food and pharmaceutical industries.','Mulberry leaves, biochemical composition, sericulture, agronomic practices, protein content, carbohydrate content, chlorophyll, silkworm feed','This study assessed the biochemical composition of mulberry leaves across various growth stages and farmer conditions. We found that while moisture content remained fairly consistent across leaf stages, other compositions like protein, carbohydrate, and chlorophyll varied across the sampled farms. These findings emphasize the impact of agronomic practices on leaf quality, crucial for sericulture and potential applications in the food and pharmaceutical sectors. The study underscores the need for continued exploration into the benefits of mulberry leaves, bridging traditional knowledge with modern research.','-','Akarsha M.R., Harshitha C., Aarushi Sharma and Devika Sharma (2023). Biochemical Variations in Mulberry Leaves: An Analysis Across Growth Stages and Farming Practices. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 15(9): 190-195.'),(7390,'165','Field Efficacy of Insecticides against Thrips on Pomegranate','Praveen Kumar, S.K. Mushrif, B. Doddabasappa and B. Venkateshalu ','Field-Efficacy-of-Insecticides-against-Thrips-on-Pomegranate-B-Doddabasappa-31.pdf','',1,'The investigations on efficacy of insecticides on pomegranate thrips was conducted at the Department of Entomology, College of Horticulture, Bagalkot, Karnataka during the year 2015-16. Thrips injury leads to leaf tip turn brown and get curled, drying and shedding of flowers and scab on fruits which will reduce the market value. Among the different insecticides evaluated against thrips on pomegranate, cyazypyr 10 OD @ 1.5 ml/l of water recorded significantly highest fruit yield (15.17 t/ha) and lowest fruit damage (6.22%) followed by imidacloprid 17.8 SL @0.3ml/l (14.67 t/ha and 9.65%, respectively). The next best treatments were, clothianidin 50 WDG @ 0.17 g/l and diafenthiuron 50 WP @ 1.0 g/l. So, spraying of cyazypyr 10 OD (a new anthranilicdiamide insecticide) @ 1.5 ml/l recorded highest net returns of Rs. 6,63,000 per ha followed by imidacloprid 17.8 SL @ 0.3 ml (Rs. 6,29,648/ha). However, in terms of benefit cost ratio, imidacloprid 17.8 SL proved best (3.77) followed cyazypyr 10 OD (3.62). Hence, spraying of imidacloprid 17.8 SL @ 0.3 ml or cyazypyr 10 OD @ 1.5 ml may be recommended for the effective management of thrips on pomegranate.','Pomegranate, Thrips, Insecticides, Efficacy','The study can be conclude that, among the different insecticides evaluated against thrips on pomegranate, cyazypyr 10 OD @ 1.5 ml/l of water recorded significantly highest fruit yield (15.17 t/ha) and lowest fruit damage (6.22%) followed by imidacloprid 17.8 SL @ 0.3ml/l (14.67 t/ha and 9.65%, respectively). The next best treatments were, clothianidin 50 WDG @ 0.17 g/l and diafenthiuron 50 WP @ 1.0 g/l. So, spraying of cyazypyr 10 OD (a new anthranilicdiamide insecticide) @ 1.5 ml/l recorded highest net returns of Rs. 6,63,000 per ha followed by imidacloprid 17.8 SL @ 0.3 ml (Rs. 6,29,648/ha). However, in terms of benefit cost ratio, imidacloprid 17.8 SL proved best (3.77) followed cyazypyr 10 OD (3.62). Hence, spraying of imidacloprid 17.8 SL @ 0.3 ml or cyazypyr 10 OD @ 1.5 ml may be recommended for the effective management of thrips on pomegranate.','-','Praveen Kumar, S.K. Mushrif, B. Doddabasappa and B. Venkateshalu (2023). Field Efficacy of Insecticides against Thrips on Pomegranate. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 15(9): 196-201.'),(7391,'165','Seasonal Parasitization of Larval Parasitoid Cotesia flavipes against Sugarcane Stalk Borer','Abinaya S., Anil Kumar, Nagendra Kumar, Ponnusamy N. and Srikanth N. ','Seasonal-Parasitization-of-Larval-Parasitoid-Cotesia-flavipes-against-Sugarcane-Stalk-Borer-Sanjay-M-32.pdf','',1,'Borers are the major pests of Sugarcane ecosystem which is parasitized by the gregarious parasitoid Cotesia flavipes. But the efficiency of Cotesia flavipes and the peak parasitization period were not clearly known. So, the present investigations were carried out on Seasonal parasitization of larval parasitoid Cotesia flavipes against sugarcane stalk borer at Sugarcane Research Institute, Dr. Rajendra Prasad Central Agricultural University during 2020-2021. To observe the natural parasitization against borer in the sugarcane ecosystem BO 154 variety was planted in 0.5-acre field. The work was mainly focused on gregarious parasitoid Cotesia flavipes on stalk borer. Cotesia flavipes parasitization on stalk borer started from the second fortnight of June and attained peak parasitization during the second fortnight of September and continued till December first fortnight. Maximum parasitization of 30.6 per cent was observed in the second fortnight of September. Cotesia flavipes parasitization significantly correlated with minimum temperature and 14.00 hrs relative humidity.','Seasonal parasitization, Sugarcane borer complex, Cotesia flavipes, weather parameters','Larval parasitoid Cotesia flavipes reduced 20 per cent of stalk borer infestation in natural field condition. And the peak parasitization of Cotesia flavipes coincided with peak activity of Stalk borer which is the great advantage for better management of pest. In addition to natural population, if release Cotesia flavipes, we can control the stalk borer effectively. At the same time, we can significantly reduce the insecticide usage and plant protection cost.','-','Abinaya S., Anil Kumar, Nagendra Kumar, Ponnusamy N. and Srikanth N. (2023). Seasonal Parasitization of Larval Parasitoid Cotesia flavipes against Sugarcane Stalk Borer. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 15(9): 202-206.'),(7392,'165','Screening of Brassica Germplasm against Painted Bug, Bagrada cruciferarum','Naval Datt and D.R. Singh','Screening-of-Brassica-germplasm-against-painted-bug,-Bagrada-cruciferarum-Naval-Datt-33.pdf','',1,'The field experiments on “Screening of Brassica germplasm against painted bug, Bagrada cruciferarum” was conducted at Students’ Instructional Farm of C.S. Azad University of Agriculture & Technology, Kanpur during Rabi 2021-22 and 2022-23. The field experiment was conduct in natural condition and scientific way. The experiment location situated on the geographical coordinates of 26° 28\' 0\'\' N, 80° 21\' 0\'\' E. Fifty Brassica germplasms were evaluated on the basis of the Range of painted bugs population per plant. The population of mustard painted bugs was observed in 50 germplasms taken under screening to see the performance of germplasms based on the level of infestation of mustard painted bugs. Based on painted bugs population, RC-1, RC-4 and RC-27 were found resistance registering (below 1.5 bugs per plant), RC-3, RC-5, RC-13, RC-14, RC-16, RC-17, RC-19, RC-25, RC-30, RC-32, RC-33, RC-34, RC-42, RC-43, RC-45 and RC-48 were found moderately resistance (between 1.5 to 2.1 bugs per plant), whereas, RC-12 and RC-50 were found highly resistance against this pest (above 2.1 bugs per plant).','Bagrada cruciferarum, Genotypes, Mustard, Painted Bug, Resistance and Screening.','Fifty Brassica germplasm of mustard were screening against mustard painted bugs. Based on painted bugs population, RC-1, RC-4 and RC-27 were found resistance registering (below 1.5 bugs per plant), RC-3, RC-5, RC-13, RC-14, RC-16, RC-17, RC-19, RC-25, RC-30, RC-32, RC-33, RC-34, RC-42, RC-43, RC-45 and RC-48 were found moderately resistance (between 1.5 to 2.1 bugs per plant), whereas, RC-12 and RC-50 were found highly resistance against this pest (above 2.1 bugs per plant).','-','Naval Datt and D.R. Singh (2023). Screening of Brassica Germplasm against painted bug, Bagrada cruciferarum. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 15(9): 207-211.'),(7393,'163','Antimicrobial Analysis of Centella asiatica L. and Hydrocotyle verticillata Thunb.','S.M. Dhivya, P. Vijayashalini, V. Sasmitha and M. Dhivyasree','Antimicrobial-Analysis-of-Centella-asiatica-L.-and-Hydrocotyle-verticillata-Thunb.-S.M-Dhivya-86.pdf','',1,'Microorganisms that were both susceptible to and resistant to antibiotics were used to assess the antibacterial activity of plant extracts and phytochemicals. The failure of the equipment, temperature, moisture, and antimicrobial agent potency are only a few of the variables that can have an impact on the outcomes of an antibiotic sensitivity test. The purpose of this research is to investigate the antimicrobial efficacy in Centella asiatica and Hydrocotyle verticillata against the gram positive (Staphylococcus aureus, Bacillus subtilis) and gram negative (Escherichia coli, Klebsiella pneumoniae) bacteria. The study revealed that the benzene and ethanol extracts of both Centella asiatica and Hydrocotyle verticillata inhibited the growth of all the tested bacteria. The benzene extract of Centella asiatica inhibits the bacteria Staphylococcus aureus, Bacillus subtilis, Escherichia coli and Klebsiella pneumoniae with a zone of inhibition of 9.7 ± 0.2mm, 8.6 ± 0.3mm, 7.8 ± 0.2mm and 6.2 ± 0.3mm, respectively and the same extract of Hydrocotyle verticillata showed an inhibition zone of 10.6 ± 0.2mm, 9.6 ± 0.3mm, 8.2 ± 0.2mm and 7.4 ± 0.3mm respectively. In the same way, the ethanol extract of Centella asiatica inhibits the bacteria Staphylococcus aureus, Bacillus subtilis, Escherichia coli and Klebsiella pneumoniae with a zone of inhibition of 11.1 ± 0.3mm, 10.0 ± 0.1mm, 8.2 ± 0.1mm and 6.4 ± 0.2mm respectively and the ethanol extract of Hydrocotyle verticillata showed an inhibition zone of 12.4 ± 0.3mm, 10.2 ± 0.1mm, 8.4 ± 0.1mm and 6.8 ± 0.2mm respectively. The results concluded that the study plants have effective antimicrobial properties.','Antimicrobial, Staphylococcus aureus, inhibition and Ethanol','-','-','S.M. Dhivya, P. Vijayashalini, V. Sasmitha and M. Dhivyasree (2023). Antimicrobial Analysis of Centella asiatica L. and Hydrocotyle verticillata Thunb. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 15(5a): 553-557.'),(7394,'165','Genetic Variability Studies in Foxtail millet (Setaria italica L.)','Dharnishkumar M., Suthamathi P., Gnanamalar R.P., Renuka R., Sathiya K.,Vaithiyalingan M. and Hemalatha G. ','Genetic-Variability-Studies-in-Foxtail-millet-(Setaria-italica-L.)-Suthamathi-P-34.pdf','',1,'Foxtail millet is being an underutilized crop which has more nutritional benefits and has more genetic resources. It is essential to utilize that resources for improving desirable traits majorly yield components. Seventy germplasm accessions along with two check varieties were evaluated at the Centre of Excellence in Millets, Tamil Nadu Agricultural University, Athiyandal, Tiruvannamalai during rabi, 2023. Variability, heritability and genetic advance as per cent of mean was estimated for analyzing variations and for better selection of elite germplasm accessions. For this purpose, observations were recorded for eleven biometrical traits including days to 50% flowering, days to maturity, plant height (cm), number of productive tillers, flag leaf length(cm), flag leaf width (cm), panicle length (cm), bristle length (cm), 1000 grain weight (g), single plant grain yield (g) and single plant stover weight (g). In this investigation, phenotypic coefficient of variation (PCV) was slightly more than the genotypic coefficient of variation (GCV) showed that relatively less influence of environmental impacts on the traits. Both, PCV and GCV were observed highest in the single plant stover weight, and lowest in the traits days to 50% flowering and days to maturity for PCV and GCV respectively. Considering heritability in relation with genetic advance as per cent of mean, it was noted that high heritability with high genetic advance was recorded for the traits viz., plant height, number of productive tillers, panicle length, bristle length, 1000 grain weight, single plant grain yield and single plant stover weight. This shows that, these traits are highly governed by additive gene action and the environmental effects would be very low and selection for these traits may be rewarding. Low heritability with medium genetic advance has been observed in the trait flag leaf width depicts relatively high influence of environment and presence of non-additive gene action.','Foxtail millet, variability, heritability, genetic advance, PCV and GCV','The evaluation and characterization of foxtail millet germplasm accessions provides the wide range of information on variations in which the germplasm lines taken, which plays a vital role in improving the crop for its desirable yield and yield related traits. In India, a wide range of foxtail millet genetic resources available as such. The utilization of these resources is very mandatory to uncover the nutritional benefits of millets and also by improving these resources in accordance with its yield, will be more helpful for farmers to cultivate profitably. So, in view of unearthing the hidden treasure of desirable variations in a boundless germplasm accessions, a small effort has been taken for the evaluation of germplasm accessions along with some check varieties to expose its contributable variations among the different quantitative traits. Thus, in the present study, the PCV and GCV are very slightly differed showing very low environmental effects influencing the traits. In this study, it can be concluded that single plant stover weight has relatively high heritability (93.60 %) with high genetic advance (79.58 %), so it is governed by additive gene action and hence the selection can be done for these traits as it is inherited genetically and also the traits plant height, number of productive tillers, panicle length, bristle length, 1000 grain weight and single plant grain yield have showed the same results. The trait flag leaf width has low heritability among the traits taken for the study with a percentage of 28.16% with moderate genetic advance (11.12 %). Low genetic advance was recorded for the trait days to maturity with magnitude of 4.85%. This shows that the trait is highly influenced by environments and genetic effects are less in that trait. Medium heritability was observed for the trait days to maturity (30.36 %) and can be interpreted as it may involve both additive and non-additive gene action.','-','Dharnishkumar M., Suthamathi P., Gnanamalar R.P., Renuka R., Sathiya K.,Vaithiyalingan M. and Hemalatha G. (2023). Genetic Variability Studies in Foxtail millet (Setaria italica L.). Biological Forum – An International Journal, 15(9): 212-216.'),(7395,'165','Management of Powdery Mildew of Coriander (Coriandrum sativum L.) incited by Erysiphe polygoni DC with Fungicides',' Darshan N. Patel, Kedar Nath and Madhu Bala ','Management-of-Powdery-Mildew-of-Coriander-(Coriandrum-sativum-L.)-incited-by-Erysiphe-polygoni-DC-with-Fungicides-Kedar-Nath-35.pdf','',1,'Coriander (Coriandrum sativum L.) is a significant spice crop known locally as \"Dhana\" or \"Kothmir\" that belongs to the Umbelliferae family and is primarily grown in India. It caused significant damage in South Gujarat. Given the high disease incidence and economic damage caused by powdery mildew disease, an experiment was conducted to evaluate the performance of several fungicides in the field for powdery mildew disease management. Reduce the yield loss of coriander due to powdery mildew disease through proper fungicides at right time is aim to study. All of the fungicides tested considerably reduced disease compared to the control. Propiconazole 25 EC (0.025%) was found to be the most effective against with a minimum of 19.17 percent disease intensity and a maximum of 72.80 percent disease control, followed by hexaconazole 5 EC (0.025%) with a minimum of 23.17 percent disease intensity and a decrease of 67.13 percent disease intensity over the control after two sprays at 15-day intervals. Similarly, the maximum seed yield was 1106.17 kg ha-1 with an increase of 160.47% over control with the application of propiconazole (0.025%), which was equal to hexaconazol (0.025%) by 958.02 kg ha-1 with an increase of 125.58% yield over the control treatment. The minimum seed output in the control treatment was 424.69 kg ha-1. The study found that two sprays of propiconazole (0.025%) and hexaconazole 5 EC (0.025%) at 15-day intervals are the most efficient fungicides for managing coriander powdery mildew. ','Coriander, powdery mildew, fungicides, management, seed yield','Two sprayed at 15 days interval of propiconazole (0.025%) and hexaconazole (0.025%) were found highly effective to reduced 72.80 and 67.13 per cent disease intensity, respectively. Similarly, highest seed yield 1106.17 kg ha-1 by increased 160.47 per cent over the control was recorded in propiconazole (0.025) which was at par with hexaconazol by 958.02 kg ha-1 with increased 125.58 per cent. While seed yield in wettable sulphur (0.2%), 770.37 kg ha-1 seed yield was recorded with 81.40 per cent increased over control. ','-','Darshan N. Patel, Kedar Nath and Madhu Bala (2023). Management of Powdery Mildew of Coriander (Coriandrum sativum L.) incited by Erysiphe polygoni DC with Fungicides. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 15(9): 217-221.'),(7396,'165','Efficacy of Foliar Application of Plant Growth Regulators on Flowering, Quality and Yield Aspects of Spider Lily (Hymenocallis littorallis L.)','Dhruvi Prajapati, N.S. Joshi, K.S. Solanki and Pooja V. Maheta','Efficacy-of-Foliar-Application-of-Plant-Growth-Regulators-on-Flowering,-Quality-and-Yield-Aspects-of-Spider-Lily-(Hymenocallis-littorallis-L.)-Dhruvi-Prajapati-36.pdf','',1,'The experiment was undertaken in Department of Floriculture and Landscape Architecture, College of Horticulture, Junagadh, Junagadh Agricultural university during the academic year 2022-2023, to Determining the optimal dosage and timing of application different level of foliar application of Gibberellic acid (GA3), Naphthalene acetic acid (NAA) and Brassinosteroid (BRs) on spider lily (Hymenocallis littorallis L.) to achieve desired outcomes in terms of flowering, quality, and yield, as these parameters can be influenced by various environmental factors and plant-specific responses. Additionally, ensuring uniform coverage and absorption of the growth regulators across a diverse population of spider lilies can be a logistical challenge in large-scale cultivation. In this experiment, the treatments considered were GA3 (200 ppm and 250ppm), NAA (150 ppm and 250 ppm), BRs (3 ppm and 5 ppm). The experiment was laid out in Randomized Block Design (RBD) with four replications. Results of the experiment showed a significant that GA3 @ 250 ppm recorded maximum spike length(75.37 cm), flower bud length (21.99 cm), flower bud diameter (1.20 cm), flower diameter (22.92 cm), days taken for first spike emergence (52.01 days),number of flower spike per plant (7.30), number of flowers per spike (16.78), number of flowers per plant (119.01), number of flowers harvested per net plot (28.52 bundles), yield of flowers (88032.41 bundles/ha), shelf life of flower (32.06 hour) and in-situ longevity of flower.','GA3, NAA, BRs, Flowering, yield, quality, spider lily','In the current study, foliar application of plant growth regulators increased spider lily flowering, quality and yield, and based on the current experimental results, it can be concluded that foliar application of GA3 @ 250 ppm outperformed other plant growth regulator treatments, followed by treatment with GA3@ 200 ppm.','-','Dhruvi Prajapati, N.S. Joshi, K.S. Solanki and Pooja V. Maheta (2023). Efficacy of Foliar Application of Plant Growth Regulators on Flowering, Quality and Yield Aspects of Spider Lily (Hymenocallis littorallis L.). Biological Forum – An International Journal, 15(9): 222-226.'),(7397,'165','Multivariate Hierarchical evaluation of Gerbera (Gerbera jamensoii) varieties \r\nby Biplots analysis for flowering traits\r\n','Shivani Goel, Sonia Singh, Ajay Verma, Arvind Malik, Devender Singh Dahiya and Sarita Devi ','Multivariate-Hierarchical-evaluation-of-Gerbera-(Gerbera-jamensoii)-varieties--AJAY-VERMA-37.pdf','',1,'Analysis of Variance observed significant differences among varieties of Gerbera for the flowering traits studied during 2002-23 cropping season. Earlier opening of first flower was observed in variety Ankur followed by Golianth, maximum flower diameter was recorded in Rosalin, while the minimum was recorded in Brilliance. The maximum number of ray florets expressed by Rosalin and minimum was recorded in Dana Ellen. Rosalin showed maximum length of ray floret while minimum was expressed in Dana Ellen. The maximum and minimum shelf life of flowers was recorded in Ankur and Golianth respectively. The maximum fresh weight found for Rosalin followed by Stanza, Golianth, Ankur, while minimum was for White House. The highest heritability was recorded fresh flower weight, length of ray floret, stalk length, shelf life, and flower diameter. High heritability coupled with high genetic advance was observed for days to first flowering, plant height (cm), stalk length (cm) and number of disc florets/flower. Flower diameter had maintained positive with number of ray florets per flower, fresh flower weight, dry flower weight and negative with days to first flower, Stalk diameter had expressed negative relationship with shelf life, length of ray floret, dry flowers weight and positive with number of flowers in March as well as with February month. The multivariate hierarchical clustering as per Ward’s method observed Atlanta and Golianth formed the first cluster of varieties followed by cluster of Brillance with White House while remaining six varieties formed the last bigger group. Biplot analysis found that Stalk diameter has expressed straight line angle with days to first flower weight and obtuse angles with shelf life. Number of ray floret had maintained ninety degree angle with dry flower weight, length of ray floret with shelf life, Number of flowers in March month with days to first flower.','Flowering traits variation, heritability, genetic advance, multivariate cluster analysis','Earlier opening of first flower was observed in variety Ankur followed by Golianth, maximum flower diameter was recorded in Rosalin, while the minimum was recorded in Brilliance. The maximum number of ray florets expressed by Rosalin and minimum was recorded in Dana Ellen. Rosalin showed maximum length of ray floret while minimum was expressed in Dana Ellen. The maximum and minimum shelf life of flowers was recorded in Ankur and Golianth respectively. The maximum fresh weight found for Rosalin followed by Stanza, Golianth, Ankur, while minimum was for White House. The highest heritability was recorded fresh flower weight, length of ray floret, stalk length, shelf life, and flower diameter. Flower diameter had maintained positive with number of ray florets per flower, fresh flower weight, dry flower weight and negative with days to first flower, Stalk diameter had expressed negative relationship with shelf life, length of ray floret, dry flowers weight and positive with number of flowers in March as well as with February month. The multivariate clustering observed Atlanta and Golianth formed the first cluster of varieties followed by cluster of Brillance with White House while remaining six varieties formed the last bigger group. Biplot analysis found that Stalk diameter has expressed straight line angle with days to first flower weight and obtuse angles with shelf life. ','-','Shivani Goel, Sonia Singh, Ajay Verma, Arvind Malik, Devender Singh Dahiya and Sarita Devi (2023). Multivariate Hierarchical evaluation of Gerbera (Gerbera jamensoii) varieties by Biplots analysis for flowering traits. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 15(9): 227-236.'),(7398,'165','Genetic divergence Analysis in Groundnut (Arachis hypogaea L.)','C. Suvarna, R.P. Vasanthi, K. Viswanath, C. Kiran Kumar Reddy and Y. Amaravathi','Genetic-divergence-Analysis-in-Groundnut-(Arachis-hypogaea-L.)-6391-C-Suvarna-38.pdf','',1,'The present study was conducted to analyze genetic diversity among 45 groundnut genotypes for twenty two characters using Mahalanobis D2 statistics. Based on Tocher\'s method of clustering, 45 genotypes were grouped into eight clusters of which cluster I was the largest with 31 genotypes followed by cluster II with 8 genotypes. The inter cluster distance was maximum between cluster VII and VIII (22.25) followed by cluster V and VII (21.65) and cluster II and VI (20.68). Considering the cluster distance and cluster means, crossing between the genotypes of cluster VII and cluster VIII, cluster V and VII is suggested in order to get transgressive segregants for yield and yield traits. The character, number of pods plant-1 (30%) contributed maximum towards genetic diversity followed by hundred kernel weight (25.25%) and number of pegs plant-1 (13.4%). ','Cluster, D2 statistics, Genetic diversity, Groundnut','Based on inter cluster distances the clusters VII & VIII, V &VII and II &VI were found to be divergent in decreasing order of their magnitude. Hence, genotypes of these clusters could be utilized as parents and crossing among them would result in heterotic expression for yield components. Due to wide diversity between the genotypes, superior recombinants could be obtained by involving such genotypes as parents in hybridization programme.','-','C. Suvarna, R.P. Vasanthi, K. Viswanath, C. Kiran Kumar Reddy and Y. Amaravathi (2023). Genetic divergence Analysis in Groundnut (Arachis hypogaea L.). Biological Forum – An International Journal, 15(9): 237-243.'),(7399,'165','Clinical Abnormalities Pertaining to Malassezia dermatitis in Dogs','Saindla Rakesh, Kabita Roy, Ashish Kumar Soni, Devendra Gupta, Anju Nayak, Pratibha Pathak, Ithrineni Karthik, Aditya Pratap and Kotari Beulah Ramyavani ','Clinical-Abnormalities-Pertaining-to-Malassezia-dermatitis-in-Dogs-Saindla-Rakesh-39.pdf','',1,'Malassezia dermatitis is a relatively common pruritic dermatosis caused by the yeast Malassezia pachydermatis. As Malassezia dermatitis mimics many other pruritic dermatoses and is usually secondary to them, screening of a large number of samples and differential diagnosis of the disease is quite challenging. The present study was undertaken to record the clinical abnormalities of the dogs affected with Malassezia dermatitis. During the study period, from April 2022 to September 2022, a total of 2974 dogs were screened. Of these, 736 dogs (24.75%) demonstrated clinical signs indicative of Malassezia dermatitis and were subjected to cytological examination for confirmation. Out of 736 dogs screened, 106 dogs were found affected with Malassezia dermatitis by acetate tape impression smear examination. Cytological examination of the acetate tape impression smears upon new methylene blue staining revealed the presence of blue coloured footprint/ peanut shaped budding yeast cells. Upon culture, Malassezia pachydermatis colonies on SDA were observed as smooth, convex, white, or creamy with a pasty texture initially after 36 to 48 hours of incubation at 37ºC that later became dry, wrinkled and light brown with the advancement of age. Mild to intense pruritus, alopecia, erythema, rancid odour, ear affections, scaling, hyper pigmentation and lichenification are the predominant clinical signs noticed in Malassezia dermatitis. Though the lesions were uniformly spread and distributed throughout the body of the affected dogs, they were predominantly seen at the ventral neck, followed by external ear/ auricular, interdigital spaces and least on the face, muzzle/ lips. Further, 49 dogs (46.23 per cent) were associated with concurrent infections/ conditions viz. demodicosis and tick infestation (24.49 %), followed by pyoderma (20.41 %), sarcoptic mange and dermatophytosis (8.16 %), diabetes mellitus, hypothyroidism and flea allergic dermatitis (4.08 %) and renal failure (2.04 %).','Malassezia dermatitis, Jabalpur, cytological examination, dogs, demodicosis','Various diagnostic methods, including direct slide impression smears, acetate tape impressions, and cotton swab smears, can be utilized to diagnose malasseziosis. However, cytological examination of the acetate tape impression smears coupled with staining and culture was found superior to other tests in diagnosing Malassezia dermatitis. Mild to intense pruritus, alopecia, erythema, rancid odour, ear affections, scaling, hyperpigmentation and lichenification are the predominant clinical signs noticed in Malassezia dermatitis. The lesions were predominantly seen at the ventral neck, followed by external ear/ auricular, interdigital spaces, and least on the face, muzzle/ lips. Further, demodicosis and tick infestation (24.49 %) were the predominant concurrent infections/ conditions associated with Malassezia dermatitis.','-','Saindla Rakesh, Kabita Roy, Ashish Kumar Soni, Devendra Gupta, Anju Nayak, Pratibha Pathak, Ithrineni Karthik, Aditya Pratap and Kotari Beulah Ramyavani (2023). Clinical Abnormalities Pertaining to Malassezia dermatitis in Dogs. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 15(9): 244-250.'),(7400,'165','Probing Cancer Protein Inhibition: Unveiling Insights via Molecular Docking and Dynamics Simulation','Pavitra Kathirvel, Bharathi N., Saranya N., Vellaikumar S., Anandhi Venugopal and Sowdhamini ','Probing-Cancer-Protein-Inhibition-Unveiling-Insights-via-Molecular-Docking-and-Dynamics-Simulation-Bharathi-N-40.pdf','',1,'Millet is recognized as a valuable source of energy and protein, renowned for its exceptional nutritional composition enriched composed of micronutrients and phytochemicals. The metabolites from the millet were used against the major cancer receptors of humans. Proso millet, a popular minor millet variety, is known for its potential to contribute to the prevention of chronic illnesses. Limited research has been conducted on the metabolites found in proso millet for potential applications in cancer treatment. The current study focuses on the phytocompounds of Proso millet compounds that could act as cancer inhibitors through molecular docking and simulation studies using BIOVIA Discovery Studio. Eleven different cancer proteins targeting different types of cancer were studied. The findings from this study demonstrate that the metabolite Myricetin displays a robust interaction with eight cancer targets. The lower binding energies observed, particularly with the Epidermal Growth Factor Receptor, indicate a high affinity between myricetin and the target protein. The Molecule-CHARMm force field was used to direct the molecular dynamic simulation, which resulted in significant potential energy reductions, demonstrating successful optimization and system stability. This study reveals the potential of Myricetin as a potent anticancer-promoting activity against cancer.','Anticancer, Myricetin, Molecular docking, Molecular dynamic simulation, Proso millet','The phytocompounds in proso millet have the potential to treat and prevent cancer, as well as provide nutritional benefits. Bioactive substances like myricetin, an EGFR protein inhibitor, are discovered through molecular docking studies and show promise for future therapeutic uses. However, more investigation and experimental studies are required to fully confirm myricetin\'s efficacy and examine its clinical relevance in the treatment of cancer. These initiatives will open the door to utilizing Myricetin\'s potential as a strong candidate in the search for potent cancer treatments. ','-','Pavitra Kathirvel, Bharathi N., Saranya N., Vellaikumar S., Anandhi Venugopal and Sowdhamini (2023). Probing Cancer Protein Inhibition: Unveiling Insights via Molecular Docking and Dynamics Simulation. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 15(9): 251-257.'),(7401,'165','Evaluation of Pot Phalaenopsis Orchids for Vegetative and Flowering characteristics under Shadenet House and Poly House Condition','S. Ramya, V.A. Sathiyamurthy, M. Ganga, A. Senthil and R.K. Kaleeswari ','Evaluation-of-Pot-Phalaenopsis-Orchids-for-Vegetative-and-Flowering-characteristics-under-Shadenet-House-and-Poly-House-Condition-S-Ramya-14.pdf','',1,'Phalaenopsis (Phalaenopsis sp.) is an economically significant ornamental potted plant around the world. Though Phalaenopsis orchids are slow in growth, the appropriate growing environmental condition greatly helps in hastening the vegetative phase because the growth of phalaenopsis is greatly influenced by environmental signals. A study was conducted at the Botanical Garden, Department of Floriculture and Landscape Architecture, Tamil Nadu Agricultural University, Coimbatore to evaluate the effect of two different environmental conditions viz., Shade net house and polyhouse on plant growth and development during the flowering phase with 8 varieties of Phalaenopsis orchid. Among the eight varieties evaluated in the study, Washington showed the maximum plant height (28.67 cm), leaf length (23.08 cm), leaf breath (6.94 cm), internodal length (1.49 cm) and no. of roots (20.98) under shade-net house condition whereas under the poly house condition Bilbao showed the maximum plant height (26.75 cm), leaf length (23.02 cm), leaf breath (6.84 cm) and internodal length (1.41 cm). Under shade- net house, the flowering parameters viz., floret length (7.09 cm) and floret diameter (7.55 cm) recorded maximum in the variety Volterra, while spike longevity (62.99 days), no. of flowers per spike (4.96) and no. of spikes per plant (2.00) recorded maximum in the variety Washington and the days taken for spike emergence (307.64 days) and first floret opening (360.98 days) was earlier than other varieties. Under poly house condition, the variety Bilbao had better performance in flowering parameters than the others. Evaluation of vegetative and flowering parameters resulted in the conclusion that the variety Washington, Bilbao, Nottingham, Andorra and Durban had the great adaptability under the tropical condition. While evaluating the performance of two different environmental conditions, the shade-net house recorded maximum vegetative growth and flowering of Phalaenopsis orchid than the polyhouse. The study aids in determining the ideal pot Phalaenopsis orchid variety for tropical climatic condition as well as the favourable growing environment for better growth and development of Phalaenopsis orchid.','Phalaenopsis, Orchids, Environmental conditions, Shadenet house, Poly house, Vegetative parameters, Flowering parameters','The findings of this study provide practical implications for Phalaenopsis farmers to cultivate under tropical condition. From the study has been revealed that shade-net house showed the better performance of Phalaenopsis orchid than polyhouse in terms of both vegetative and flowering characters under tropical condition. It is concluded that among the eight varieties studied, the variety Washington showed the maximum vegetative and flowering parameters viz., Plant height, Leaf length, Leaf breadth, Internodal length, Number of roots per plant, Spike longevity, Number of flowers per spike and Number of spikes per plant under shade-net house condition. While under polyhouse condition, the variety Bilbao showed the maximum vegetative and flowering parameters viz., Plant height, Leaf length, Leaf breadth, Internodal length and Number of spikes per plant. Therefore, from the current investigation it is interfered that the variety Washington showed the better adaptability under tropical condition followed by Bilbao, Nottingham, Andorra and Durban while Cali was the least performing variety which did not even produce the spike during the trial period. Thus, this variety does not suit the tropical growing conditions.','-','S. Ramya, V.A. Sathiyamurthy, M. Ganga, A. Senthil and R.K. Kaleeswari (2023). Evaluation of Pot Phalaenopsis Orchids for Vegetative and Flowering characteristics under Shadenet House and Poly House Condition. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 15(9): 86-94.'),(7402,'165','Anterior Pituitary Gland Prolactin Expression Profile of IWI Layer and Kadaknath Chicken during 20 and 40 Weeks of Age','B. Rajith Reddy, B. Ekambaram and T.K. Bhattacharya ','Anterior-Pituitary-Gland-Prolactin-Expression-Profile-of-IWI-Layer-and-Kadaknath-Chicken-during-20-and-40-Weeks-of-Age-B-RAJITH-REDDY-41.pdf','',1,'A study was conducted to explore mRNA expression profiles of the prolactin gene in the anterior pituitary glands in two varieties of chicken viz., IWI layer and Kadaknath birds both at 20 and 40 weeks of age. In the present experiment, the anterior pituitary glands of three birds from each breed were collected and their total RNA was extracted, and further proceeded for cDNA synthesis. The RT-qPCR study revealed that Kadaknath chicken during 40 weeks had the highest prolactin expression, while the lowest prolactin was observed at 20 weeks in the IWI layer among all the groups. Further, the rise in prolactin expression was minimal in the IWI layer between 20 and 40 weeks with a fold change rise of 1 to 1.35. However, the rise of fold change from 1 to 3.5 at 20 and 40 weeks was observed in Kadaknath chicken which indicates that the rise in prolactin expression is high compared to the IWI layer. It has been concluded that the prolactin expression levels in the pituitary gland are higher in the Kadaknath breed than in the IWI layer, and it increases as age progresses in Kadaknath chickens. According to this expression profile, changes in prolactin levels at different ages may be the reason of high egg production in layers compare to native chickens with lower egg production.','IWI layer, Kadaknath, Prolactin, RT-qPCR, Expression','The present investigation revealed low levels of prolactin expression inlayers compared to kadaknath chicken and the increment of prolactin is more in kadaknath chicken than IWI layers as age advances.','-','B. Rajith Reddy, B. Ekambaram and T.K. Bhattacharya (2023). Anterior Pituitary Gland Prolactin Expression Profile of IWI Layer and Kadaknath Chicken during 20 and 40 Weeks of Age. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 15(9): 258-262.'),(7403,'165','Identifying Key Yield and Quality Determinants in Finger Millet (Eleusine coracana (L.) Gaertn) through Correlation and Path Analysis','T. Nagendra Babu, L. Madhavilatha, M. Reddi Sekhar and B. Vajantha ','Identifying-Key-Yield-and-Quality-Determinants-in-Finger-Millet-(Eleusine-coracana-(L.)-Gaertn)-through-Correlation-and-Path-Analysis-T-Nagendra-Babu-42.pdf','',1,'A field experiment was conducted at Agricultural research station, Perumallapalle, Tirupati with 316 finger millet genotypes in an Augmented block design and observations were recorded for 16 yield and quality traits. Grain yield plant-1 is positively correlated with harvest index followed fodder yield plant-1, finger number on main ear, productive tillers per plant-1, ear head length and 1000 grain weight. Hence, there is an immense scope for selection for high-yielding finger millet genotypes with these associations and in contrary it showed a negative correlation with calcium content. The path analysis revealed that fodder yield plant-1, followed by productive tillers plant-1, ear head length, finger number on main ear and finger width showed positive direct effect on grain yield. The selection of these traits will be rewarding for the improvement of grain yield.','Correlation, path analysis, Augmented block design and finger millet','Investigation of character association in finger millet germplasm lines reveals a significant correlation among various traits in the genotypes under investigation. Days to 50% flowering are positively correlated with days to maturity and finger width but negatively correlated with plant height, calcium and zinc content. Days to maturity showed positive correlations with productive tillers plant-1, finger width, fodder and grain yield plant-1 and negative correlation with calcium and zinc content. Plant height is positively correlated with ear head length, finger length, fodder yield plant-1 and iron while negatively correlated with finger number on the main ear and harvest index. These interrelationships provide valuable insights for targeted breeding strategies to enhance crop performance and quality.\r\nThe path analysis results revealed that harvest index and fodder yield plant -1 have high positive, direct effect on grain yield plant-1. Considering the nature and magnitude of character association and their direct and indirect effects, it can be inferred that improvement of grain yield plant-1 is possible through the simultaneous manifestation of harvest index and fodder yield plant-1.\r\n','-','T. Nagendra Babu, L. Madhavilatha, M. Reddi Sekhar and B. Vajantha (2023). Identifying Key Yield and Quality Determinants in Finger Millet (Eleusine coracana (L.) Gaertn) through Correlation and Path Analysis. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 15(9): 262-266.'),(7404,'165','Impact of Sulphur Fertilization on Growth, Yield, Sulphur and Oil Content, Sulphur Uptake and Economics of Sesamum (Sesamum indicum L.) Cultivars during Pre-kharif in South Odisha','Parimi Venkata Sai Krishna, Triptesh Mondal, Masina Sairam, Swarnali Duary, Tanmoy Shankar and Rahul Adhikary ','Impact-of-Sulphur-Fertilization-on-Growth,-Yield,-Sulphur-and-Oil-Content,-Sulphur-Uptake-and-Economics-of-Sesamum-(Sesamum-indicum-L.)-Cultivars-during-Pre-kharif-in-South-Odisha-Triptesh-Mondal-43.pdf','',1,'Sesamum is the queen among all the oilseed crops having a wider range of adaptability to different agro-climate and is being cultivated in India due to its market value, good quality oil and nutritional content. Some important reasons for achieving low productivity of sesamum are less or no application of some fertilizer nutrients and improper selection of cultivar. Being an oilseed crop, application of primary nutrients along with sulphur can improve seed and oil yield as well as oil quality of sesamum. Sulphur plays key role in protein synthesis in oilseeds and helps in plant metabolic activity and ultimately improve yield. Along with sulphur application, selection of best suitable cultivated crop variety for a location can also enhance the productivity of sesamum. Indian farmers generally do not apply sulphur separately through a different sulphur-based fertilizer due to lack of awareness. Considering these facts, a field investigation was taken to assess the enhancement in the growth, yield, sulphur and oil content, sulphur uptake and economics of sesamum cultivars due to sulphur fertilization under this agro-climatic region. Field investigation was done during pre-kharif season of 2022 at Post Graduate Research Farm, M. S. Swaminathan School of Agriculture, Centurion University of Technology and Management, Odisha. The present study was planned in factorial randomized block design with three different cultivars (YLM 11, Gowri and YLM 66) and four levels of sulphur (0, 20, 40 and 60 kg ha-1) replicated thrice. Sulphur was applied through bentonite sulphur fertilizer which contains 90% sulphur. As per the experimental findings, cultivation of the sesamum cultivar “Gowri” combined with sulphur application at the rate of 60 kg ha-1 was beneficial for obtaining more growth, yield, oil and sulphur content, higher sulphur uptake and economic benefit than all the other combinations of sesamum cultivar and sulphur application rate.','Cultivar, Growth, Oil, Sulphur, Sesamum, Yield','From the above findings, it can be inferred that S application along with the primary nutrients might have positive impact on the growth and yield attributes and yield vis-à-vis oil percentage of improved sesamum cultivars. Application of S at the rate of 60 kg ha-1 in combination with the cultivar, Gowri could be the best option to achieve maximum growth, yield and profit during pre-kharif season in southern Odisha region. ','-','Parimi Venkata Sai Krishna, Triptesh Mondal, Masina Sairam, Swarnali Duary, Tanmoy Shankar and Rahul Adhikary (2023). Impact of Sulphur Fertilization on Growth, Yield, Sulphur and Oil content, Sulphur Uptake and Economics of Sesamum (Sesamum indicum L.) Cultivars during pre-kharif in South Odisha. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 15(9): 267-273.'),(7405,'157','Development, characterization and Evaluation of Doxycycline containing novel In-situ Gel for effective Ocular Drug Delivery','Patel L.K. and Naresh Kalra ','Development,-characterization-and-Evaluation-of-Doxycycline-containing-novel-In-situ-Gel-for-effective-Ocular-Drug-Delivery-Lalit-Patel-258.pdf','',1,'Aim of the present study was to select the suitable pharmaceutical ingredients which provides suitable aqueous based system for designing and developing the in-situ gel-forming formulation containing Doxycycline Hyclate (DOX). Pharmaceutical ingredients specially used in ophthalmic formulation like Polymers (Gellan gum, Xanthan gum, Hypromellose, Povidone and etc.), Tonicity modifiers (Sodium chloride, Mannitol and etc.), Preservatives (Benzalkonium chloride, Oxychlorocomplex, Benzododecinium bromide and etc.), Buffers (Tromethamine, Sodium citrate, disodium hydrogen phosphate and etc.) stabilizing agents or Antioxidants (Sodium metabisulfite, Citric acid and Sodium thiosulfate and etc.). The pre-formulation studies were performed with selected pharmaceutical ingredients. Drug-Excipients compatibility studies were performed at 25°C and 40°C. Stability of Doxycycline Hyclate at different pH 5.5-7.4 were checked to finalize the pH of final formulation. The obtained results indicated that, the selected ingredients were suitable and provide stable system for in-situ gel formulation containing Doxycycline Hyclate. Results showed that a suitable combination of polymers (Gellan gum, Povidone K30 & Hypromellose), Preservative (Benzalkonium chloride), Buffer (Tromethamine), Tonicity modifier (Mannitol) and Antioxidant (Sodium metabisulfite) were found compatible. This could be the better and stable hydrogel system for Doxycycline Hyclate for in situ gel formulation.','Dry eye disease, In-situ gel, doxycycline Hyclate, drug delivery, polymer, Gellan gum, Benzalkonium chloride, Antioxidant','In the present study, stability study of Doxycycline with five different antioxidants were studied and found that, the Doxycycline Hyclate was more stable with sodium thiosulfate at a concentration of 5mg/mL at selected temperature 25°C & 40°C, pH -5.5 & 7.4. However, Doxycycline Hyclate was found more stable at a temperature 25 °C as compared to 40°C. Doxycycline Hyclate was found compatible with all selected excipients mentioned in Table 2. Further same qualitative composition shall be used to develop in situ gel forming solution. However, Quantitative composition shall be further optimized as per requirement. ','-','Patel L.K. and Naresh Kalra (2023). Development, characterization and Evaluation of Doxycycline containing novel In-situ Gel for effective Ocular Drug Delivery. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 15(5): 1730-1733.'),(7406,'165','Molecular Characterization and Nematicidal Activity of Indigenous Bacillus thuringiensis isolate T210','Berryish Metha C., Rajadurai G., Raghu R., Jayakanthan M., Kokiladevi E., Murugan M., and Balasubramani V.','Molecular-Characterization-and-Nematicidal-Activity-of-Indigenous-Bacillus-thuringiensis-isolate-T210-V-BALASUBRAMANI-44.pdf','',1,'Bacillus thuringiensis (Bt), renowned for its insecticidal properties, has emerged as a promising solution in pest management, addressing concerns over environmental impact, regulatory restrictions, and insect resistance to synthetic insecticides. This study focuses on the indigenous Bt isolate T210, which exhibits nematicidal activity against the model nematode Caenorhabditis elegans. The investigation begins with a comprehensive characterization of native Bt isolate T210, including colony morphology, protein profiling and toxicity analysis. T210 exhibited creamy white colour colonies with an irregular shape, fried egg-like surface pattern, flat elevation, and undulated margins. Microscopic examination reveals presence of bipyramidal, cuboidal, and spherical-shaped crystals in T210. Protein profiling through SDS-PAGE analysis highlights diverse protein bands with molecular weights around 135 kDa, 115 kDa, 50 kDa, 46 kDa, and 42 kDa. These findings suggest the presence of various toxic proteins in the Bt isolate T210, potentially contributing to its nematicidal activity. PCR screening for major insecticidal genes, including various cry and vip genes, yields negative results, indicating the absence of insecticidal genes screened in T210. This suggests the presence of novel genes with unique properties. The nematicidal activity of T210 is evaluated through in vitro bioassays, revealing 100 % larval mortality in C. elegans at 500 μg/ml of crude protein. Probit analysis of crude protein from T210, against C. elegans revealed the LC50 value of 323.79 μg/ml. ','Bt isolate, Caenorhabditis elegans, Molecular characterization, Nematode, T210','The presence of diversified proteins and their corresponding genes in T210 opens the door to further research into their potential for protecting agricultural crops against crop pests. In vitro bioassay study confirmed the toxicity potential of the Bt isolate T210 against nematodes, however discovering the new nematicidal toxic genes present in T210 is a compelling avenue for future exploration. Comprehensive analyses, such as whole genome sequencing and toxic protein expression, could provide invaluable insights into the protection of crops and, ultimately, benefit agriculture on a large scale.','-','Berryish Metha C., Rajadurai G., Raghu R., Jayakanthan M., Kokiladevi E., Murugan M., and Balasubramani V. (2023). Molecular Characterization and Nematicidal Activity of Indigenous Bacillus thuringiensis isolate T210. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 15(9): 274-281.'),(7407,'163','Institutional Level Policy Initiatives on Crisis Management during Pandemic Situation in Dairy Sector','Bimal P. Bashir, R. Senthilkumar and Anjali K. Babu ','Institutional-Level-Policy-Initiatives-on-Crisis-Management-during-Pandemic-Situation-in-Dairy-Sector-Bimal-P-Bashir-87.pdf','',1,'COVID-19 pandemic has affected not only the health but also had paralysed most of the economic and social life of people. Since, dairy sector is not an exception to this phenomena, a comprehensive study on the effect of COVID-19 on the lives of dairy farmers of Wayanad district were conducted under State Plan Research Project 2021-2022. Based on the milk production data from secondary sources, two milk producing Dairy Milk Co-operative societies were selected from three taluks of Wayanad District namely, Vythiri, Sulthan Bathery and Mananthavady. From each Dairy Milk Co-operative societies fifteen dairy farmers were randomly selected for the final study. Thus through multi-stage random sampling ninety dairy farmers were selected for the study. The study revealed that the major constraints faced by dairy farmers during COVID-19 pandemic period were regarding the marketing and transportation of milk, utilization of unsold excess milk, shortage of skilled labours which includes, milkers, labours involved in fodder crops etc., shortage of good quality fodder, feed and supplements. The result revealed that dairy farmers enrolled under well-established Dairy Milk Co-operative Societies were more satisfied with the benefit received from the society than that with smaller DCS units. Well established Dairy Milk Cooperative Societies (DCS), with huge milk turnover and having more than 2000 membership enrollment were able to support their members effectively when compared to smaller ones. The office bearers of dairy cooperative societies opined that institutional level support such as milk transportation facilities, need to be organized at government institutional level. Encouragement must be given for potential farmer level outlets for milk and milk products. For this Kudumbasrees, PRI institutions etc. must be utilized. Moreover, value addition of milk under theses outlets can also be encouraged. Dairy farmers and cooperative unions were able to sell milk to First Line Treatment Centres (FLTCs) during the COVID-19 pandemic period. Setting up of local level “Livestock army” which would be helpful for dairy farmers to get technically sound labour during acute shortage of labour (pandemic or any natural disaster period). Skilled labour which includes milking, fodder field management, farm intensive labour need to be initiated under “livestock army” scheme. Another constraint emphasized by dairy farmers were the difficulty in managing the herd when the whole family got infected /quarantined with COVID-19. So, an emergency, shelter in the form of “goshala” like facility could be established during pandemic period as well as during any natural calamities or extreme weather situations.','COVID-19 pandemic, dairy sector, Wayanad, constraints, Marketing','COVID-19 pandemic period trigger the shift from consumption of household milk sale to packed milk and milk product. It also had an impact on opening up online market for dairy product as well. Some of the feeding practice followed during COVID-19 pandemic period were altered the composition of concentrate feeding, utilize buffer stock of feed, increase utilization of alternative feed resources such as beverage waste, banana leaves etc. Disease management practices followed during COVID-19 pandemic period was through consulting veterinary doctors through telephone. Marketing practices followed during COVID-19 pandemic period were direct selling of milk, preparation of valued added dairy products like curd, paneer etc., alter the location of milk selling place. It was suggested that procurement of milk by public and private dairy plants should be increased and the same should be utilized to produce dairy products having comparatively longer shelf life like butter, ghee, skim milk powder etc. Despite many problems faced by the co-operative sector during the lockdown, it acted as a buffer and protected the dairy food supply chain from the free market and price fluctuation of milk during COVID-19 pandemic period.','-','Bimal P. Bashir, R. Senthilkumar and Anjali K. Babu (2023). Institutional Level Policy Initiatives on Crisis Management during Pandemic Situation in Dairy sector. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 15(5a): 558-562.'),(7408,'165','Propagule Size and Zinc Application influenced flowering in gladiolus cv. Malaviya Kundan','Sakshi Santosh Vyas, Anil K. Singh, Anjana Sisodia and Kalyan Barman ','Propagule-Size-and-Zinc-Application-influenced-flowering-in-gladiolus-cv.-Malaviya-Kundan-Anil-K-Singh-45.pdf','',1,'Zinc is one of the essential micronutrients to the plants having antioxidant properties which eventually help in enhancing the quality and vase life of flowers. But usually the application of micronutrients is neglected all over the world. Therefore, supply of adequate amount of nutrients at proper time is imperative for achieving quality flowers for export to the international market. The present research effort aims to elucidate the response of gladiolus cv. Malaviya Kundan to different concentrations of zinc sulphate for obtaining better flowering trait. An experiment was conducted at Horticulture Research Farm, Banaras Hindu University, Varanasi. Experiment was consisted seven grades of corms (1.0, 1.5, 2.0, 2.5, 3.0, 3.5, 4.0 cm) with three levels of zinc (0, 15.0 and 30.0 kg/ha) which was laid out in Randomized Block Design (RBD) and replicated 4 times. Parameters like days to spike emergence, days to colour show, days to opening of floret, diameter and length of floret, spike length, rachis length, number of florets per spike and number of opened florets, longevity of floret and duration of flowering were taken into consideration to assess the effect of propagule size and zinc. The results revealed that corm grade 3.5 cm achieved significant results on most of the flowering indices including length of 3rd and 5th floret, duration of flowering, number of florets, number of opened florets, spike length and rachis length followed by grade 4.0 cm. Various doses of zinc produce significant effect on flowering parameters. ZnSO4 at 15kg/ha was found beneficial for most of the flowering parameters in gladiolus i.e. early emergence of spike, early colour show, days to opening of 1st floret, duration of flowering, number of opened florets, spike length and rachis length. Interaction effect between corm grade and zinc was found to be non-significant for all the flowering parameters.','Zinc sulphate, soil application, corm grades, flower diameter, flowering duration','On the basis of the experimental findings it maybe concluded that the application of ZnSO4 at 15 kg/ha was found beneficial on most of flowering parameters. However, among various grades largest corm grade i.e. 4.0 cm was found to be the best for most flowering parameters followed by grade 3.5 cm and 3.0 cm, respectively. ','-','Sakshi Santosh Vyas, Anil K. Singh, Anjana Sisodia and Kalyan Barman (2023). Propagule Size and Zinc Application influenced flowering in gladiolus cv. Malaviya Kundan. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 15(9): 282-286.'),(7409,'165','Influence of Pre-harvest Application of Gibberellic Acid and Borax on Fruit Retention, Yield and Quality of Mango (Mangifera indica L.) cv. Dashehari','Shashi Shekhar Singh, V.K. Tripathi and Manuj Awasthi ','Influence-of-Pre-harvest-Application-of-Gibberellic-Acid-and-Borax-on-Fruit-Retention,-Yield-and-Quality-of-Mango-(Mangifera-indica-L.)-cv.-Dashehari-Manuj-Awasthi-46.pdf','',1,'To investigate the influence of pre-harvest application of Gibberellic acid and Borax on fruit retention, yield and quality of Mango (Mangifera indica L.) cv. Dashehari, an experiment was carried out in the garden, Department of Fruit Science, C.S. Azad University of Agriculture and Technology, Kanpur -208002 (U.P.), India, during the year 2022-23. The experiment was laid out in Randomized Block Design (RBD), using nine diverse treatments viz., T1-GA3 20ppm, T2-GA3 40 ppm, T3-Borax (0.2%), T4-Borax (0.4%), T5-GA3 20ppm + Borax (0.2%), T6-GA3 40ppm + Borax (0.2%), T7-GA3 20ppm + Borax (0.4%), T8-GA3 40 ppm + Borax (0.4%), and T9-control i.e., water spray, replicated thrice on 13-year-old, uniform in growth, twenty-seven mango cv. Dashehari plants, spaced at 7x7 m apart. Mango is considered one of the well accepted fruits all over the world due to its luscious taste, captivating flavour and attractive colour. A variety of products can be prepared from both immature green and ripe fruits. The spraying was done at the pea stage of fruit setting using, a very tiny nozzle sprayer. Foliar application of Borax and GA3 plays a crucial part in controlling a variety of physiological phenomena, boosting yield and quality, and increasing plant productivity. The use of boron facilitates the transport of sugar and speeds up fruit bud development. The spraying with a combination of GA3 40ppm + Borax 0.4% (T8) results in maximum number of fruits per panicle (7.14%), minimum fruit drop (85.06%), maximum fruit retention (14.94%), fruit length (11.66%), fruit width (7.14%), weight (243.32g), volume (240.91cc), fruit yield (57.14kg/plant), fruit pulp (72.32%), total soluble solids (22.08°Brix), total sugars (21.08%), ascorbic acid (34.96mg/100ml) with minimum fruit peel (16.64%), stone (11.04%) and titratable acidity (0.40%) under plains of Uttar Pradesh.','Mango, GA3, Borax, Flowering, Fruiting, Yield and Physio-chemical qualities','Based on the findings of the present investigation, we can conclude that foliar spray of Gibberellic acid and borax on mango fruit crop resulted in significant improvement of flowering and fruiting behaviour of mango fruits which ultimately leads to physical and biochemical attributing parameters of mango. \r\nThe higher concentration of plant growth regulators (40 ppm GA3) and micronutrients (0.4% Borax) in combination is more effective than the lowest doses of the remaining treatments.\r\n','-','Shashi Shekhar Singh, V.K. Tripathi and Manuj Awasthi (2023). Influence of Pre-harvest Application of Gibberellic Acid and Borax on Fruit Retention, Yield and Quality of Mango(Mangifera indica L.) cv. Dashehari. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 15(9): 287-291.'),(7410,'165','Effect of Novel Organic Liquid Fertilizer and Plant Growth Regulators on Quality of Guava cv. Lucknow 49','D.M. Dabhi, M.J. Patel and H.L. Chaudhary','Effect-of-Novel-Organic-Liquid-Fertilizer-and-Plant-Growth-Regulators-on-Quality-of-Guava-cv.-Lucknow-49-DM-Dabhi-47.pdf','',1,'An experiment was conducted to study the effect of novel organic liquid fertilizer and plant growth regulators on quality of guava cv. Lucknow 49, during the year 2021 and 2022. Eleven treatments were imposed in Complete Randomized Design (CRD) with three repetitions and among the different treatments, GA3 150 mgl-1 (T8) noted higher total soluble solids, ascorbic acid, total sugar, reducing sugar, non-reducing sugar and minimum acidity during both the years and in pooled data. While, maximum shelf life was observed with salicylic acid 150 mgl-1 (T6) during both the years and in pooled data. ','Novel organic liquid fertilizer, plant growth regulators, quality and guava','From the two years of field study, it can be concluded that foliar application of GA3 150 mgl-1 improved fruit quality parameters like total soluble solids, acidity, ascorbic acid, total sugar, reducing sugar and non- reducing sugar. While, application of salicylic acid 150 mgl-1 improved shelf life of guava fruits which was sprayed twice, first at July and second at August.','-','D.M. Dabhi, M.J. Patel and H.L. Chaudhary (2023). Effect of Novel Organic Liquid Fertilizer and Plant Growth Regulators on Quality of Guava cv. Lucknow 49. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 15(9): 292-296.'),(7411,'165','Impact of Biostimulant on Growth, Yield and Quality of Potato \r\n(Solanum tuberosum L.)\r\n','S. Karak, U. Thapa and N.N. Hansda ','Impact-of-Biostimulant-on-Growth,-Yield-and-Quality-of-Potato-S-Karak-48.pdf','',1,'The present investigation on \"Impact of biostimulant on growth, yield, and quality of potato (Solanum tuberosum L.)\" was carried out during the period of 2022–23 at \"C\" Block Farm, Bidhan Chandra Krishi Viswavidyalaya, Kalyani, Nadia, West Bengal. The farm is located very close to the Tropic of Cancer, having approximately 22.89°N latitude and 88.45°E longitude. The altitude of the place is about 9.75 m above sea level. The main objectives of this study were to find out the important impact of biostimulants and the ideal stage of application. In present days it shows that application of biostimultant has better opportunities for sustainable farming. The statistical analysis was done using Randomized Block Design (RBD) with three replications and seven treatments. It was noticed in the experiment that the application of biostimulants enhanced crop growth and promoted reproductive growth in later stages of the crop compared to control plants. Amongst the treatments, biostimulant application as foliar spray showed significant influences on growth, yield, and quality parameters. Seaweed extracts (Ascophyllum nodusum) applied topically had a substantial impact on the number of tubers produced per plant. Application of seaweed extracts (Ascophyllum nodusum) at 500 ml/acre during 25–30 DAPS and 40–45 DAP (T3) significantly registered the highest number of tubers per plant of 10.37. Significant responses were also observed on quality parameters with seaweed extracts, protein hydrolysates, and N-fixing growth promoters when applied as foliar sprays during different stages of plant growth. The highest value of 17.33 g/100 g of CHO was observed in the plants where seaweed extracts (Ascophyllum nodusum) were sprayed twice. Based on the results obtained from the present investigation, it may be concluded that application of seaweed extracts (Ascophyllum nodusum) twice days after planting, and again, 40–45 days after planting, may be suitable for potato cultivation for increasing production and improving the quality of potato tubers as compared to the control. T6 (protein hydrolysates and N-fixing growth promoter) also showed a good response in some parameters. ','Physio-activator, biostimulant, protein hydrolysate, amino acid and potato','It can be inferred from the present findings that biostimulant application is essential to improving potato tuber yield. Although the application of stages is also one of the important factors for vegetative parameters of crop growth, based on the results obtained from the present investigation, it may be concluded that application of seed weed extract (Ascophyllum nodusum) at 500 ml/acre twice during 25–30 days after planting and again during 40–45 days after planting may be suitable for potato cultivation for increasing production and getting quality tubers of potato. ','-','S. Karak, U. Thapa and N.N. Hansda (2023). Impact of Biostimulant on Growth, Yield and Quality of Potato (Solanum tuberosum L.). Biological Forum – An International Journal, 15(9): 297-302.'),(7412,'165','Mean Performance of Parents and Hybrids for Fruit Yield and quality characters in Snake gourd [Trichosanthes anguina (L.)]','Jyothirmayi D., Kranthi Rekha G., Padma E., Paratpara Rao M., Uma Krishna K. and Sekhar V. ','Mean-Performance-of-Parents-and-Hybrids-for-Fruit-Yield-and-quality-characters-in-Snake-gourd-[Trichosanthes-anguina-(L.)]-Dodda-Jyothirmayi-49.pdf','',1,'This research was conducted in 2022-23 at the Vegetable Research Block, situated within the esteemed College of Horticulture at Dr. Y.S.R. Horticultural University in Venkataramannagudem, Andhra Pradesh, India. The principal objective of this study was the assessment of growth and yield-related traits in both parent and hybrid snake gourd varieties. Among the six parent varieties scrutinized in this investigation, specifically IC 347377, Kaumudi, and PKM-1, the recorded yields were 12.06 kg, 9.79 kg, and 9.42 kg per vine, respectively. In contrast, the hybrid varieties, namely Manusree × CO-2, PKM-1 × CO-2, CO-2 × IC 212513, and PKM-1 × IC 347377, exhibited remarkable yields, producing 20.25 kg, 18.84 kg, 18.02 kg, and 15.95 kg per vine, respectively, in the cultivation of snake gourd. These findings underscore the promising potential of the parent varieties for inclusion in future breeding programs, offering avenues for the enhancement of snake gourd characteristics. Concurrently, the high-yielding hybrid varieties, distinguished by their impressive productivity, are strongly recommended for broad adoption within the commercial cultivation of snake gourd. This research outcome contributes substantial insights to the domain of snake gourd cultivation, providing valuable guidance to growers and breeders for the purpose of informed decision-making aimed at elevating crop productivity.','Snake gourd, Mean performance, High yielding, Breeding programmes, Yield, Quality','In summary, following a comprehensive examination of six distinct parental varieties, Manusree and CO-2 have unequivocally emerged as strong general combiners, distinguished by their substantial contributions to both fruit yield and quality-related characteristics. These two varieties have consistently displayed exceptional performance across multiple key attributes, underscoring their significance in breeding programs aimed at enhancing the overall quality and productivity of the crop. \r\nAmong the specific crossbreed combinations, Manusree × Kaumudi has exhibited exceptional characteristics in terms of fruit length and average fruit weight, demonstrating a synergistic effect that augments these essential quality metrics. Conversely, PKM-1 × Manusree has proven to be highly effective in enhancing fruit girth, while Manusree × CO-2 has shown remarkable potential in terms of both the number of fruits per vine and overall fruit yield per vine. \r\nThese findings represent a valuable foundation for future breeding initiatives, offering essential insights and benchmarks for the development of improved snake gourd varieties. The selection of strong general combiners and the identification of specific cross combinations with desirable traits provide a structured approach to advancing the crop\'s genetic potential, ultimately benefiting the agricultural sector and ensuring the continued progress of snake gourd cultivation.\r\n','-','Jyothirmayi D., Kranthi Rekha G., Padma E., Paratpara Rao M., Uma Krishna K. and Sekhar V. (2023). Mean Performance of Parents and Hybrids for Fruit Yield and quality characters in Snake gourd [Trichosanthes anguina (L.)]. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 15(9): 303-307.'),(7413,'165','Sero-prevalence of Canine Brucellosis in Urban and Peri-urban Areas of Guwahati','Malela Sai Krishnagoud, Archana Talukdar, Harazika R.A. and Durlav Prasad Bora','Sero-prevalence-of-Canine-Brucellosis-in-Urban-and-Peri-urban-Areas-of--Guwahati-Malela-Sai-krishnagoud-50.pdf','',1,'Brucellosis is a contagious lingering zoonotic disease that has a massive impact on a wide range of animal species as well as humans. While circulation of brucellosis is evident in Assam, the role of dog in possible transmission of the disease remains unclear. Therefore, present study was envisaged in urban and peri urban areas of Guwahati, Assam over a period of 8 months to determine the sero-prevalence of canine brucellosis. A total of 240 serum samples were subjected to initial screening by rose bengal plate test (RBPT) and further confirmed by using standard tube agglutination (STAT) and lateral flow assay (LFA). The current study reveals that 12 samples were positive with RBPT having sero-prevalence of 5.00%. Further confirmation of the samples showed 10 samples to be positive in STAT and LFA, with an overall sero-prevalence of 4.16%. Sero- prevalence of canine brucellosis was higher in peri-urban (5.80%) than urban (2.50%) areas of Guwahati.','Canine brucellosis, sero-prevalence, RBPT, STAT, LFA','The dogs were showing various symptoms of disease similar to brucellosis including infertility, abortion, still birth and fetal maceration. Sero-prevalence of canine brucellosis showed higher in peri-urban (5.80%) than urban (2.50%) areas of Guwahati with an overall sero-prevalence of (4.16%). A comprehensive molecular epidemiological study on brucellosis and implementation of one health approach for strategic disease control at the interface of human, animals and environment is a major challenge.','-','Malela Sai Krishnagoud, Archana Talukdar, Harazika R.A. and Durlav Prasad Bora (2023). Sero-prevalence of Canine Brucellosis in Urban and Peri-urban Areas of Guwahati. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 15(9): 308-310.'),(7414,'165','Evaluation of efficacy of Newer Molecules against spiraling Whitefly Aleurodicus dispersus (Russel) in Guava, Psidium guajava L.','Suvarna Patil, Arunkumar B., Raghunatha R., Maheshwarappa H.P., Aswathanarayana Reddy, R.B. Hirekurubar and Mastiholli A.B.','Evaluation-of-efficacy-of-Newer-Molecules-against-spiraling-Whitefly-Aleurodicus-dispersus-(Russel)-in-Guava,-Psidium-guajava-L.-Suvarna-Patil-51.pdf','',1,'The Spiralling whitefly, Aleurodicus dispersus Russell, is a polyphagous pest native to the Caribbean region and Central America has turned out to be cosmopolitan in distribution as well creating devastation to the farming community. The field experiment was conducted on different biorational and insecticides against spiralling whitefly (Aleurodicus disperses Russel) in guava at Regional Horticultural Research and Extension Centre, Dharwad, Karnataka during 2018-19 and 2019-20. All the treatments were significantly superior over untreated check. The results indicated that the less population of spiralling whitefly was reported in Thiamethoxam 25 WG @ 0.2g/L treated plot (3.82 spiralling whiteflies/three leaves) followed by Acetamiprid 20 SP @ 0.2g/L. Overall, chemical control by Thiamethoxam 25 WG was the most effective against whiteflies populations in Guavain both seasons.','Guava, Whiteflies, Pest management, New molecules, Botanicals.','The present study revealed the effectiveness of various biorational insecticides against spiralling white fly. Thiamethoxam 25 WG @ 0.2 g/L proved to be the highly effective treatment among all the treatments tested for the control of spiralling white fly with highest yield per hectare and Benefit:Cost ratio followed by Acetamiprid 20 SP @ 0.2 g/L and Difenthiuron 50 WP @ 0.5 g/L. ','-','Suvarna Patil, Arunkumar B., Raghunatha R., Maheshwarappa H.P., Aswathanarayana Reddy, R.B. Hirekurubar and Mastiholli A.B. (2023). Evaluation of efficacy of Newer Molecules against spiraling Whitefly Aleurodicus dispersus (Russel) in Guava, Psidium guajava L.. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 15(9): 311-314.'),(7415,'165','Effect of Organic Sources of Nutrients on Soil characteristics, Nutritional Quality and Economics of Grain Amaranth (Amaranthus hypochondriacus L.)','Gangadhar Eswar Rao, V. Venkatachalapathi, M.M. Venkatesha, R.N. Lakshmipathi and Kushal','Effect-of-Organic-Sources-of-Nutrients-on-Soil-characteristics,-Nutritional-Quality-and-Economics-of-Grain-Amaranth-(Amaranthus-hypochondriacus-L.)-Kushal-52.pdf','',1,'A field study was conducted during Kharif 2021 at Research Institute of Organic Farming (RIOF) field unit, University of Agricultural Sciences, Bangalore to investigate the influence of various organic nutrient sources on soil characteristics, nutritional quality of grain and the economic aspects of grain amaranth (Amaranthus hypochondriacus L.) cultivation. The field experiment was laid out in Randomized Complete Block Design (RCBD) consisting of twelve treatments, each replicated three times. Among the various organic nutrient sources tested, the combination of 50% N equivalent Farmyard Manure (FYM) and 50% N equivalent Pongamia cake (PC) resulted in the highest organic carbon content (0.66%) and the uptake of essential nutrients (58.7 kg ha-1 of nitrogen, 17.4 kg ha-1 of phosphorus, and 57.2 kg ha-1 of potassium), protein (12.98 g), calcium (414.98 mg), and iron (13.08 mg) per 100 grams of grain amaranth seeds. However, application of 100% N equivalent Pongamia cake (PC) significantly increased the crude fiber content (5.23 g) and oil content (7.14%) in the grain amaranth, whereas the lowest values were observed in the absolute control. Furthermore, Treatment 4, which involved the application of a microbial consortium to the soil at a rate of 1.5 kg ha-1, demonstrated significantly higher populations of beneficial microorganisms, including bacteria, fungi, actinomycetes, nitrogen-fixing bacteria, and phosphate-solubilizing bacteria (45.52× 105 CFC/g of soil, 15.83× 104 CFC/g of soil, 19.13× 103 CFC/g of soil, 27.17 × 106 CFC/g of soil and 13.46× 106 CFC/g of soil, respectively) compared to the other organic nutrient sources. In terms of economic considerations, the application of 50% N equivalent Pongamia cake (PC) combined with 50% N equivalent Bio digestor liquid manure (BDLM) resulted in the highest net return and benefit-to-cost ratio (89511 Rs. ha-1and 2.43 respectively).','Amaranth, Organic nutrient sources, Pongamia cake (PC), Bio digestor liquid manure (BDLM), Microbial consortium, Nutritional quality, Grain yield and B:C ratio','The study demonstrated that the choice of organic nutrient sources can affect soil characteristics, nutritional quality, and economic returns in grain amaranth cultivation. The microbial consortium treatment improved soil microbial activity, potentially enhancing soil health. Furthermore, specific nutrient combinations, such as the use of pongamia cake and Bio Digester Liquid Manure, showed promising economic benefits. Among the various organic nutrient sources tested, the combination of 50% N equivalent Farmyard Manure (FYM) and 50% N equivalent Pongamia cake (PC) resulted in the highest organic carbon content (0.66%) and the uptake of essential nutrients (58.7 kg ha-1 of nitrogen, 17.4 kg ha-1 of phosphorus, and 57.2 kg ha-1 of potassium), protein (12.98 g), calcium (414.98 mg), and iron (13.08 mg) per 100 grams of grain amaranth seeds. However, application of 100% N equivalent Pongamia cake (PC) significantly increased the crude fiber content (5.23 g) and oil content (7.14%) in the grain amaranth, whereas the lowest values were observed in the absolute control. Furthermore, Treatment 4, which involved the application of a microbial consortium to the soil at a rate of 1.5 kg ha-1, demonstrated significantly higher populations of beneficial microorganisms, including bacteria, fungi, actinomycetes, nitrogen-fixing bacteria, and phosphate-solubilizing bacteria (45.52× 105 CFC/g of soil, 15.83× 104 CFC/g of soil, 19.13× 103 CFC/g of soil, 27.17 × 106 CFC/g of soil and 13.46× 106 CFC/g of soil, respectively) compared to the other organic nutrient sources. In terms of economic considerations, the application of 50% N equivalent Pongamia cake (PC) combined with 50% N equivalent Bio digestor liquid manure (BDLM) resulted in the highest net return and benefit-to-cost ratio (89511 Rs. ha-1 and 2.43 respectively). ','-','Gangadhar Eswar Rao, V. Venkatachalapathi, M.M. Venkatesha, R.N. Lakshmipathi and Kushal (2023). Effect of Organic Sources of Nutrients on Soil characteristics, Nutritional Quality and Economics of Grain Amaranth (Amaranthus hypochondriacus L.). Biological Forum – An International Journal, 15(9): 315-321.'),(7416,'163','Creation, Profiling, and Assessment of an Innovative in-situ Gel Incorporating Doxycycline for Enhanced Ocular Drug Release','Patel L.K. and Naresh Kalra','Creation,-Profiling,-and-Assessment-of-an-Innovative-in-situ-Gel-Incorporating-Doxycycline-for-Enhanced-Ocular-Drug-Release-Patel-LK-88.pdf','',1,'Aim of the present study was to design and develop in-situ gel-forming containing Doxycycline Hyclate and evaluate against dry eye disease related bacterial infections. The formulation was systemically optimized using simplex lattice design model. The optimized formulation was evaluated for clarity, pH measurement, gelling capacity, Gel strength, drug content estimation, rheological study, viscosity, in-vitro diffusion study, antimicrobial activity, and osmolality study. The Gellan gum is a well-known natural source of gel-forming mucoadhesive polymer, which gets converted to gel in the presence of divalent-cations (calcium ion) present in the lachrymal fluid, was used as the gelling agent. The optimized In-situ formulations were evaluated for osmolality 260-310 mOs mol/kg, drug content 95-100% and pH 6.5-7.4, gelling time 22 seconds, gelling strength. The antimicrobial efficacy results showed that not less than 1.0 log reduction from the initial calculated count at 7 days, not less than 3.0 log reduction from the initial calculated count at 14 days, and no increase from the 14 days count at 28 days. The obtained results indicated that the elaborated in-situ gel system containing Doxycycline Hyclate has been successfully developed. Results showed that a suitable combination of polymers Gellan gum, Povidone K30 & Hypromellose were provide better Mucoadhesion and to increase the residence time. This may be helpful in term of patient compliance for the dry eye disease related bacterial infections. This in situ gelling system containing natural source of gums may be a valuable alternative to the conventional systems. ','Dry eye disease, In-situ gel, Doxycycline Hyclate, drug delivery, polymer, Gellan gum','In the present study, ion responsive in-situ gel forming solution containing doxycycline Hyclate was prepared and evaluated for antimicrobial activity. Gellan gum in a concentration of 6mg/mL (0.6% w/w) showed optimum gelation when mix with simulated tear fluid (STF). Benzalkonium chloride used as a preservative which showed good preservative efficacy at a concentration of 0.05mg/mL (0.005% w/w). In situ gel forming ophthalmic solution available in market containing Timolol was used to compare the other physicochemical parameters like gel strength, gelling time, viscosity, gelling capacity with prepared in-situ gel forming solution out of that formulation R6 found satisfactory and comparable. ','-','Patel L.K. and Naresh Kalra (2023). Creation, Profiling, and Assessment of an Innovative in-situ Gel Incorporating Doxycycline for Enhanced Ocular Drug Release. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 15(5a): 563-568.'),(7417,'165','Integrated Surgical Approach for Pyometra and Unilateral Uterine Torsion with Fetal Mummification in a Dalmatian Bitch','R. Sureshkumar, Akhter Rasool, M. Bharathidasan, T. Sarath, M.G. Mohamed Ali and Umamageswari ','Integrated-Surgical-Approach-for-Pyometra-and-Unilateral-Uterine-Torsion-with-Fetal-Mummification-in-a-Dalmatian-Bitch-Akhter-Rasool-53.pdf','',1,'Pyometra stands as a serious and prevalent gynecological disorder in intact female dogs, characterized by the accumulation of inflammatory exudates in the uterine lumen. Complications associated with pyometra include sepsis, peritonitis, and uterine torsion. Uterine torsion can arise due to factors such as inadequate fetal fluids, violent turning, or rotation of the uterus, and may be concomitant with complications such as pyometra and fetal mummification. This case report presents the clinical presentation and surgical management of uterine torsion in a bitch with a previous history of fetal mummification, which was also accompanied by pyometra. The difficulties encountered in diagnosing and treating this condition, as well as the significant insights gained from this case that contribute to a better understanding of complex reproductive disorders, have been discussed.','Canine, Uterine torsion, Pyometra, Caesarean section, Ovariohysterectomy','Uterine torsion is a relatively rare but serious condition in pregnant bitches, with a higher incidence of unilateral uterine torsion. While the exact cause remains unclear, factors such as a lack of fetal fluid, excessive fetal movements, vigorous uterine contractions, and hyperactivity in late gestation are potential predisposing factors. Although rare, the association of pyometra with uterine torsion underscores the importance of prompt and decisive treatment to prevent sepsis and systemic complications.','-','R. Sureshkumar, Akhter Rasool, M. Bharathidasan, T. Sarath, M.G. Mohamed Ali and Umamageswari (2023). Integrated Surgical Approach for Pyometra and Unilateral Uterine Torsion with Fetal Mummification in a Dalmatian Bitch. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 15(9): 322-324.'),(7418,'165','Status of DTPA- Extractable Micronutrient Cations in surface and Sub-surface Soils of different Land use System in Gwalior Chambal Division of Madhya Pradesh','Rajput B.K., Trivedi S. K., Sharma S.K. and Yadav S.S.','Status-of-DTPA-Extractable-Micronutrient-Cations-in-surface-and-Sub-surface-Soils-of-different-Land-use-System-in-Gwalior-Chambal-Division-of-Madhya-Pradesh-Rajput-BK-54.pdf','',1,'Analysis of one hundred twenty five each of surface and sub-surface soil samples from five land use system (LUS) viz., Agriculture (A), Horticulture (H), Agri–horticulture (AH), Ravines (R) and Forest (F) under alluvial soils of Gwalior Chambal division of Madhya Pradesh indicate that the different land use system, maximum organic carbon content in surface and sub-surface was recorded in forest whereas minimum in ravines areas. Bulk density was decrease in natural forest and Agri-horticulture systems. DTPA extractable ZN, Fe and Mn were higher in surface soil as compared to sub surface soil in all LUS whereas Cu in some LUS. Maximum soil samples was deficient in available Zn in agriculture followed by ravines land use system whereas forest land use system show sufficient content of available zinc in surface soils. All samples of different land use system were found to be sufficient in available Cu and Mn. In case of available Fe, minimum soils samples were found deficient in forest whereas maximum in ravines area.','Available Zn, Fe Cu and Mn. Organic carbon, bulk density, land use system','The present study revealed a picture on the influence of different land use systems (LUS) on the available micronutrient cations status and physico-chemical properties of the soils of Gwalior Chambal region of Madhya Pradesh. It has been observed that forest and agri-horticulture land exhibited better status in most of the micronutrient status as well as soil parameters than the other land use system. The mean bulk density values of the studied soils were found higher in uncultivated LUS indicated more soil compaction in uncultivated LUS resulting unfavorable soil condition. Considering the forest land as benchmark, the inferiority of soils under agricultural activity is visible in the present investigation. Thus, initiation of judicious and location specific soil management practices becomes an important step in order to maintain the soil health in a sustainable basis.','-','Rajput B.K., Trivedi S. K., Sharma S.K. and Yadav S.S. (2023). Status of DTPA- Extractable Micronutrient Cations in surface and Sub-surface Soils of different Land use System in Gwalior Chambal Division of Madhya Pradesh. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 15(9): 325-329.'),(7419,'165','Evaluation of Rice Accessions for Anaerobic Germination, Yield and Attributing Parameters in Direct Seeded Rice condition','Godwin Gilbert J., Agalya Jasmin S., Ramchander S., Indira Petchiammal K., Samundeswari R. and Dinesh Kumar P. ','Evaluation-of-Rice-Accessions-for-Anaerobic-Germination,-Yield-and-Attributing-Parameters-in-Direct-Seeded-Rice-condition-Godwin-Gilbert-J-55.pdf','',1,'Improving the tolerance against anaerobic germination has been the leading target domain in lowland areas, especially in Direct Seeded Rice (DSR) conditions. Flash flooding is a major issue in lowland rice cultivation. Direct seeded rice is affected by anaerobic stress. Most higher yielding modern rice varieties die within a week of complete submergence, making them unsuitable alternatives of traditional rice landraces. The present study was carried out to identify the elite genotypes for tolerance against anaerobic germination and yield parameters among twenty-five diverse rice genotypes under DSR. Traits namely germination percentage, seedling height, days to 50% flowering, early seedling vigour, leaf length, leaf width, number of productive tillers, panicle length, panicle weight, number of filled grains, spikelet fertility, 1000 grain weight and single plant yield were recorded.\r\nChitiraikar showed maximum germination percentage (100 %). The plant height was the highest in Garudan samba (124 cm). Chitiraikar showed the highest seedling vigour of 5185. Aanaikomban had 26 more productive tiller (26 Nos). Single plant yield was also greater in Aanaikomban (38.11 g). The genotypes Chitiraikar, Aanaikomban, Karunguruvai and CR1009 sub-1 had better performance when compared to other genotypes. The highest PCV% and GCV% were found in the early seedling vigour (92.56 % and 70.97%) and the lowest (moderate) in spikelet fertility (9.53% and 9.51 %). The traits viz., number of productive tillers (0.36**), panicle weight (0.64**), number of filled grains (0.211**), and 1000 grain weight (0.81**) exhibited a significant positive association with single plant yield. The results of the PCA exhibited that PC1, PC2 and PC3 accounted for 23.97 %, 18.47% and 14.14% variation respectively. Cluster analysis showed that cluster III had the highest mean and encompassed the major influencing traits. Six clusters were formed and the genotypes were grouped based according to their performance. Cluster I and II contains seven genotypes. Thus, choosing the genotypes with these important traits mentioned above can increase the tolerance for anaerobic germination in DSR condition.\r\n','Rice, Abiotic stress, Anaerobic germination tolerance, Direct seeded rice, Screening','Recently, there has been a notable increase in interest surrounding the development and application of rice varieties that exhibit anaerobic germination tolerance in DSR condition. These particular lines have the capacity to enhance food production and provide resilience to the uncertainties brought about by climate change and global warming. The discoveries from this research pave the way for the enhancement of rice cultivars with anaerobic germination tolerance, given that these genetic resources encompass a wider spectrum of genetic diversity associated with anaerobic germination capabilities.','-','Godwin Gilbert J., Agalya Jasmin S., Ramchander S., Indira Petchiammal K., Samundeswari R. and Dinesh Kumar P. (2023). Evaluation of Rice Accessions for Anaerobic Germination, Yield and Attributing Parameters in Direct Seeded Rice condition. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 15(9): 330-339.'),(7420,'165','Effect of Genotypes under Varying Fertility Levels and Bio-fertilizer Inoculation on productivity and profitability of Mustard {Brassica juncea (L.) Czern & Coss.}','Preeti Devatwal, Jagdish Choudhary, Kajal Arora, Devi Lal Kikraliya and Anuj Kumar ','Effect-of-Genotypes-under-Varying-Fertility-Levels-and-Bio-fertilizer-Inoculation-on-productivity-and-profitability-of-Mustard-{Brassica-juncea-(L.)-Czern-&-Coss.}-Preeti-Devatwal-56.pdf','',1,'A field experiment was carried out at Instructional Farm of Agronomy, Rajasthan College of Agriculture, Udaipur during October, 2020-2021 in humid and sub humid condition of Rajasthan. The experiment was laid out in the Factorial Randomized Block Design with three replications and consist of two factors. The first factor including four genotypes of mustard i.e. ‘Bio-902’, ‘Giriraj’, ‘RH-0749’ and ‘NRCHB-101’ and second factor was four fertility levels i.e.75% RDF, 100% RDF, 75% RDF + Bio-fertilizer and 100% RDF + Bio-fertilizer. On the basis of performance highest seed, straw, biological yield, harvest index, and yield0 attributing characters i.e. primary, secondary, tertiary branches/plant, siliqua/plant, seed/siliqua and 1000 test weight exhibited by genotype ‘Giriraj’ and fertility levels. Further, among the various fertility levels maximum yield and yield attributes were significantly obtained under 100% RDF + Bio-fertilizer which was superior over rest of the treatments. However, significantly higher values of all the yield and yield attributing characters of mustard were observed with genotypes ‘Giriraj’ followed by ‘NRCHB-101’, ‘Bio-902’ and ‘RH-0749’ and fertility level 100% RDF + Bio-fertilizer as compare to other treatments. Relative economic analysis for crop cultivation indicated that the maximum gross return (`/ha 103762, 97238), net return (`/ha 83347, 77148) and benefit-cost ratio (4.09, 3.84) was found with Indian mustard variety ‘Giriraj’ with application of 100% RDF+ Bio-fertilizer. Challenges to instability in yield and production because of appropriate donor source for major biotic stresses like alternaria blight, white rust, aphid pest attack, and abiotic stresses like drought, frost, salinity. Indigenous sources with rich quality of oil and seed meal are available but are poor yielders. Hence, genotype Giriraj with the application of 100% RDF + Bio-fertilizer were proved economically viable in mustard crop under prevailing agro-climatic conditions of Rajasthan. A big challenges in mustard is disease infestation sclerotina rot, orobanchae parasite, alternaria blight disease, non availability of quality seed, painted bug were identified and their management require the on farm technology. ','Yield, Yield attributes, Biofertilizer, Net return, Mustard genotypes, Economics','The results of the investigation maximum seed yield (1812 kg/ha), gross return (` 103762 /ha), net return (` 83347 /ha) and B-C ratio (4.09) was obtained with genotype Giriraj further, maximum seed yield, gross return, net return and B-C ratio was realized under application of 100 % RDF + Bio-fertilizer compared to other fertility levels. Hence, genotype Giriraj with the application of 100% RDF + Bio-fertilizer were proved economically viable in mustard crop under prevailing agro-climatic conditions of Rajasthan.','-','Preeti Devatwal, Jagdish Choudhary, Kajal Arora, Devi Lal Kikraliya and Anuj Kumar (2023). Effect of Genotypes under Varying Fertility Levels and Bio-fertilizer Inoculation on productivity and profitability of Mustard {Brassica juncea (L.) Czern & Coss.}. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 15(9): 340-345.'),(7421,'165','Genetic Diversity of South Indian Rice (Oryza sativa L.) Genotypes based on Yield and its Components','Gokul M., N.B. John Kingsly, G. Ashwin Bernald, J. Lydia Pramitha and S. Praveena Katharine ','Genetic-Diversity-of-South-Indian-Rice-(Oryza-sativa-L.)-Genotypes-based-on-Yield-and-its-Components-NB-John-Kingsly-57.pdf','',1,'Rice serves as the primary dietary component for over 50% of the global population. In order to accommodate the increasing needs of an expanding population, it is imperative to enhance yield levels. The generation of variability is significant in order to enhance yield and facilitate the development of breeding programmes. A total of sixty high yielding rice cultivars were subjected to a comprehensive investigation of genetic variability across eleven distinct traits. The plant height, number of productive tillers, grain breadth, and grain length showed high GCV, PCV, Heritability as well as GAM. The genetic diversity of 60 genotypes was evaluated using D2 statistics, followed by their categorization into eight clusters utilising R packages. Among the eight clusters under consideration, it was observed that Cluster I encompassed a total of 20 distinct genotypes, while Cluster III comprises 17 distinct genotypes. The observed clustering patterns of the Sornamasuri and karuppukavuni genotypes indicate a notable level of genetic diversity within the examined population. Among the eight clusters, it was observed that the Cluster VII and Cluster V exhibit the highest inter-cluster distance. Clusters VII and V exhibit a noteworthy degree of genetic diversity, as evidenced by the observed differences between these two clusters. Based on the observations derived from the diversity experiment, it has been ascertained that specific characteristics display notable variations across various genotypes. The aforementioned characteristics include 1000 grain weight, days to 50% flowering, the number of productive tillers and single plant yield.','Rice, D2 statistics, heritability, variability, genetic diversity','From the present study, it was concluded that the Plant height, Number of productive tillers, Grain breadth, Grain length showed high GCV, PCV, heritability as well as GAM. Hence, these traits should be taken into consideration at the time of selecting the genotypes for enhancing the yield. The observed clustering patterns of the Sornamasuri and karuppukavuni genotypes indicate a notable level of genetic diversity within the examined population. Among the eight clusters, it is observed that Cluster VII and Cluster V exhibit the highest inter-cluster distance. Clusters VII and V exhibit a noteworthy degree of genetic diversity, as evidenced by the observed differences between these two clusters Based on the results obtained from the diversity studies, it has been noted that specific characteristics, namely 1000 grain weight, days to 50 % flowering, and the number of productive tillers, display noteworthy variations among the genotypes. The aforementioned characteristics have been discerned as pivotal factors that contribute significantly to the overall genetic variability that is observed.','-','Gokul M., N.B. John Kingsly, G. Ashwin Bernald, J. Lydia Pramitha and S. Praveena Katharine (2023). Genetic Diversity of South Indian Rice (Oryza sativa L.) Genotypes based on Yield and its Components. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 15(9): 346-351.'),(7422,'100','Nutrient content in Fresh substrata, partial Decomposed Matter and Vermicompost under different Treatments','S.B. Agrawal, Ruchi Gupta, Shani Gulaiya, Ashish Kumar and Priya Kochale','Nutrient content in Fresh substrata, partial Decomposed Matter and Vermicompost under different Treatments-Shani Gulaiya-107.pdf','',1,'The object of the study was to convert biomass into in enriched vermicompost with the use of various additives like Trichoderma, PSB, cow dung and rock phosphate alone and in combination with each other. Treatments consisted of two substrata, soybean and paddy straw and six additives. Hence, twelve treatment combinations were arranged in a randomized block design (RBD) with three replications. Substrata along with additives as per treatments were allowed for partial decomposition i.e. 21 days followed by digestion by earthworm. The 200 gram of earthworms were released in each treatment. Observations with respect to duration required for vermicomposting change in composition of nitrogen, phosphorus and potassium in partially decompose matter and varmicompost over fresh substrata. Results reveal that the treatment combination of soybean stover amended with cow dung and inoculated with PSB and required only 59 days to complete the process of vermicomposting. The content of nitrogen, phosphorus and potassium increases over fresh substrata in the partially decomposition as well as in vermicomposting. The higher content of 0.76, 2.10% nitrogen, 0.36 and 0.89% phosphorus and 0.83 and 1.04% potassium with soybean straw+cow dung+PSB in partially decomposed matter and vermicompost respectively.','vermicompost, earthworm, soybean stover, paddy straw, cow dung, bio waste, partial decomposition','On the basis of findings, it is concluded that, among the substrates, soybean straw amended with cow dung and inoculated trichoderma and PSB takes least duration of 59 days (including 21 days of partial decomposition) for completion of vermicomposting process. The nutrient content with respect to nitrogen, phosphorus as well as potassium increased over fresh and partial decomposed matter in vermicompost. Thus, it could be concluded that the process of vermicomposting is advantageous for enhancing matter nutrient content in final product of vermicomposting. ','-','S.B. Agrawal, Ruchi Gupta, Shani Gulaiya, Ashish Kumar and Priya Kochale (2021). Nutrient content in Fresh substrata, Partial Decomposed Matter and Vermicompost under different Treatments. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 13(2): 732-736.'),(7423,'165','Estimation of Genetic Diversity in Ridge Gourd Hybrid (Luffa acutangula L.)','Suvedha M., Marichamy M.S., Kanthaswamy V., Vengadessan V. and Manikandan M. ','Estimation-of-Genetic-Diversity-in-Ridge-Gourd-Hybrid-(Luffa-acutangula-L.)-Suvedha-M-58.pdf','',1,'This study, conducted at Pandit Jawaharlal Nehru College of Agriculture and Research Institute, Karaikal, U.T. of Puducherry, during the rabi season of 2021–2022, aimed to assess the genetic divergence among 18 ridge gourd hybrids. Employing a randomized block design with two replications, 18 traits were evaluated to understand the genetic makeup of the hybrids. Clustering analysis revealed eight distinct clusters, with varying numbers of hybrids in each. Cluster II displayed the highest diversity with five hybrids, followed by cluster VI with three. The average intra-cluster distances ranged from 349.996 to 486.754, indicating varying degrees of diversity among clusters. Fruit yield per plant (91.50 percent) was the most influential trait contributing to genetic divergence, followed by total soluble solids (3.27 percent), number of fruits per vine (2.61 percent), individual fruit weight (1.96 percent), and vitamin C content (0.65 percent). Notably, hybrids Deepika from cluster VIII, SW 1212 from cluster VI, and Vinayak F1 from cluster VI demonstrated superior characteristics, offering potential for future crop improvement endeavours. This research provides valuable insights into optimizing ridge gourd hybrids for enhanced agricultural outcomes.','Clusters genetic divergence, ridge gourd, D2 analysis, cluster analysis','The genetic divergence analysis conducted in this study unveiled a significant presence of genetic diversity among the 18 ridge gourd hybrids, resulting in their classification into eight distinct clusters. Cluster II emerged as the largest cluster, comprising five hybrids, followed by cluster VI, which encompassed three hybrids. Clusters I, III, IV, and V were composed of two hybrids each. Intriguingly, clusters VII and VIII were found to be mono-genotypic, indicating that they harbor the most diverse hybrids. Notably, the greatest diversity was observed between cluster VII and VIII, as reflected by the maximum inter-cluster distance. Cluster VIII exhibited higher cluster values for crucial parameters like fruit yield per vine, vine length at final harvest, number of primary branches per vine, number of female flowers per vine, number of seeds per fruit, and number of fruits per vine. Additionally, these hybrids displayed early traits, such as early female flower anthesis and fewer days to reach 50 percent flowering. Among the 18 traits investigated, fruit yield per vine demonstrated the highest contribution towards genetic diversity, followed by total soluble solids and number of fruits per vine. The application of hierarchical clustering through agglomerative cluster analysis effectively grouped the 18 hybrids into eight clusters. Notably, this analysis revealed no discernible correlation between geographical and genetic diversity within the population. Hybrids from different geographic locations were clustered together, emphasizing the need for genetic assessment beyond geographical parameters. Furthermore, the hybrids Deepika from cluster VIII, SW 1212, and Vinayak F1 from cluster VI exhibited superior characteristics. These hybrids hold promising potential for future crop development programs, given their substantial contributions to genetic diversity and notable individual performance. This study provides invaluable insights into the genetic diversity of ridge gourd hybrids, offering a foundation for prospective endeavours in crop improvement.','-','Suvedha M., Marichamy M.S., Kanthaswamy V., Vengadessan V. and Manikandan M. (2023). Estimation of Genetic Diversity in Ridge Gourd Hybrid (Luffa acutangula L.). Biological Forum – An International Journal, 15(9): 352-357.'),(7424,'165','Estimation of Genetic Diversity in Ridge Gourd Hybrid (Luffa acutangula L','Suvedha M., Marichamy M.S., Kanthaswamy V., Vengadessan V. and Manikandan M. ','Estimation-of-Genetic-Diversity-in-Ridge-Gourd-Hybrid-(Luffa-acutangula-L.)-Suvedha-M-58.pdf','',4,'This study, conducted at Pandit Jawaharlal Nehru College of Agriculture and Research Institute, Karaikal, U.T. of Puducherry, during the rabi season of 2021–2022, aimed to assess the genetic divergence among 18 ridge gourd hybrids. Employing a randomized block design with two replications, 18 traits were evaluated to understand the genetic makeup of the hybrids. Clustering analysis revealed eight distinct clusters, with varying numbers of hybrids in each. Cluster II displayed the highest diversity with five hybrids, followed by cluster VI with three. The average intra-cluster distances ranged from 349.996 to 486.754, indicating varying degrees of diversity among clusters. Fruit yield per plant (91.50 percent) was the most influential trait contributing to genetic divergence, followed by total soluble solids (3.27 percent), number of fruits per vine (2.61 percent), individual fruit weight (1.96 percent), and vitamin C content (0.65 percent). Notably, hybrids Deepika from cluster VIII, SW 1212 from cluster VI, and Vinayak F1 from cluster VI demonstrated superior characteristics, offering potential for future crop improvement endeavours. This research provides valuable insights into optimizing ridge gourd hybrids for enhanced agricultural outcomes.','Clusters genetic divergence, ridge gourd, D2 analysis, cluster analysis','The genetic divergence analysis conducted in this study unveiled a significant presence of genetic diversity among the 18 ridge gourd hybrids, resulting in their classification into eight distinct clusters. Cluster II emerged as the largest cluster, comprising five hybrids, followed by cluster VI, which encompassed three hybrids. Clusters I, III, IV, and V were composed of two hybrids each. Intriguingly, clusters VII and VIII were found to be mono-genotypic, indicating that they harbor the most diverse hybrids. Notably, the greatest diversity was observed between cluster VII and VIII, as reflected by the maximum inter-cluster distance. Cluster VIII exhibited higher cluster values for crucial parameters like fruit yield per vine, vine length at final harvest, number of primary branches per vine, number of female flowers per vine, number of seeds per fruit, and number of fruits per vine. Additionally, these hybrids displayed early traits, such as early female flower anthesis and fewer days to reach 50 percent flowering. Among the 18 traits investigated, fruit yield per vine demonstrated the highest contribution towards genetic diversity, followed by total soluble solids and number of fruits per vine. The application of hierarchical clustering through agglomerative cluster analysis effectively grouped the 18 hybrids into eight clusters. Notably, this analysis revealed no discernible correlation between geographical and genetic diversity within the population. Hybrids from different geographic locations were clustered together, emphasizing the need for genetic assessment beyond geographical parameters. Furthermore, the hybrids Deepika from cluster VIII, SW 1212, and Vinayak F1 from cluster VI exhibited superior characteristics. These hybrids hold promising potential for future crop development programs, given their substantial contributions to genetic diversity and notable individual performance. This study provides invaluable insights into the genetic diversity of ridge gourd hybrids, offering a foundation for prospective endeavours in crop improvement.','-','Suvedha M., Marichamy M.S., Kanthaswamy V., Vengadessan V. and Manikandan M. (2023). Estimation of Genetic Diversity in Ridge Gourd Hybrid (Luffa acutangula L.). Biological Forum – An International Journal, 15(9): 352-357.'),(7425,'165','Estimation of Heterosis for Yield and Yield contributing Traits among intraspecific Hybrids of Cucumis melo','Mamatha R.M., T.B. Allolli, Rekha B. Chittapur, Raghavendra Gunnaiah, Vasant M. Ganiger, M.S. Lokesh and Jnaneshwar B. Gopali','Estimation-of-Heterosis-for-Yield-and-Yield-contributing-Traits-among-intraspecific-Hybrids-of-Cucumis-melo-Mamatha-RM-59.pdf','',1,'Melo is a species of the extremely complex genus Cucumis in the cucurbitaceae family, with a chromosome number of 2n=24. With respect to fruit characteristics like fruit shape, size, color, texture, taste and nutritional composition, the species melo exhibits considerable morphological variation. Local cultivars of melo are low in moisture content, nutrients and keeping quality, hence the taxonomic groups of Cucumis melo are crossed to improve the local cultivars. In the current study, 30 hybrids were developed by crossing 5 lines with 6 testers in a line-tester fashion. Hybrids were then assessed along with parents in a randomized complete block design (RCBD) with two replications. UHSCS-9 × Mudicode Local and UHSCS-12 × Arka Siri hybrids performed better for the yield and its related traits with maximum heterosis over the better parent. These crosses can be exploited in crop improvement by generating transgressive segregants. ','Hybrids, Relative heterosis, Heterobeltiosis, Yield, melo','The hybrids UHSCS-39 × UHSCS-77 (fruit length), UHSCS-12 × Arka Siri (average fruit weight), UHSCS-9 × Long melon (number of fruits per plant) and UHSCS-9 × Mudicode Local (total yield per plant) were best performing for the yield and its related traits with maximum heterosis and can be exploited for crop improvement. Nutrient content, moisture and keeping quality of the hybrids have been improved significantly when compared to parents (Local cultivars).','-','Mamatha R.M., T.B. Allolli, Rekha B. Chittapur, Raghavendra Gunnaiah, Vasant M. Ganiger, M.S. Lokesh and Jnaneshwar B. Gopali (2023). Estimation of Heterosis for Yield and Yield contributing Traits among intraspecific Hybrids of Cucumis melo. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 15(9): 358-363.'),(7426,'165','Assessment of Nutrient Status of Weed due to Mulch and Weed management Practices','Pradeep Kumar, V.P. Usadadiya, Gharsiram, Sunil Kumar and Mangilal ','Assessment-of-Nutrient-Status-of-Weed-due-to-Mulch-and-Weed-management-Practices-Pradeep-Kumar-60.pdf','',1,'An experiment was carried out to study the “Assessment of nutrient status in weed due to mulch and weed management practices in chickpea” at Agronomy Farm, N. M. College of Agriculture, Navsari Agricultural University, Navsari during rabi seasons of 2021-22 and 2022-23. This experiment aimed to know how much nutrients were removed by weeds from the chickpea field. The experiment was laid out in randomized block design with the factorial concept with twelve treatment combinations comprising of two levels of mulch viz., M0: No mulch and M1: Sugarcane trash mulch @ 5 t ha-1, six levels of weed management practices viz., T1: Pendimethalin @ 450 g ha-1 PE, T2: Pendimethalin @ 450 g ha-1 PE fb hand weeding at 30 DAS, T3: Quizalofop-ethyl @ 40 g ha-1 PoE, T4: Pendimethalin @ 450 g ha-1 PE fb Quizalofop-ethyl @ 40 g ha-1 PoE, T5: Interculture fb hand weeding at 20 and 40 DAS and T6: Weedy check with three replications. The soil of the experimental field was clayey in texture, medium in available nitrogen and phosphorus and rich in available potassium with normal electrical conductivity. Results find that chickpea weeds\' N, P and K content was insignificant. In contrast, the uptake of N, P and K by weeds was significantly affected by mulch as well as weed management practices during both the years and in pooled analysis, respectively. ','Sugarcane trash mulch, pendimethalin, quazalofop-ethyl, weed management, no mulch','The results concluded that the weeds\' lower nutrient removal or uptake in the treatment of sugarcane trash mulch @ 5 t ha-1 and interculture fb hand weeding at 20 and 40 DAS treatment during the study.','-','Pradeep Kumar, V.P. Usadadiya, Gharsiram, Sunil Kumar and Mangilal (2023). Assessment of Nutrient Status of Weed due to Mulch and Weed management Practices. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 15(9): 364-366.'),(7427,'165','Genetic variability of Custard Apple (Annona squamosa L.) Genotypes under Southern Rajasthan','Saddam Husain, L.N. Mahawer, Manisha Verma, Iqbal Ahmed, H.L. Bairwa and Arjun Lal Regar ','Genetic-variability-of-Custard-Apple-(Annona-squamosa-L.)-Genotypes-under-Southern-Rajasthan-Saddam-Husain-61.pdf','',1,'In the present investigation, an attempt has been made to generate information on genetic variability using thirty custard apple genotypes. The variability, heritability and genetic advance as percent of mean were performed for 22 selected characters among selected custard apple genotypes. The thirty genotypes were collected from the Udaipur, Rajsamand and Chittorgarh districts of Rajasthan. The higher phenotypic coefficient of variation was observed over genotypic coefficient of variation for all traits, indicating the dominance of environmental factors over these traits. Maximum GCV and PCV were recorded for pulp: seed ratio (37.95 and 38.62), number of flakes without seeds (29.32 and 29.98), non-reducing sugar (27.65 and 28.50), shelf life (25.84 and 27.16), acidity (22.58 and 24.19) and number of seeds fruit (21.71 and 22.85). The heritability estimation was varied from 45.97 to 96.76 % for traits under study. High heritability observed for fruit weight, pulp: seed ratio, number of flakes without seeds and non-reducing sugar. Genetic advance as percentage of mean was also found high for pulp: seed ratio, number of flakes without seeds, non-reducing sugar and shelf life. Hence, these traits imply the potential for crop improvement through clonal selection and wide hybridization. ','Custard apple, GCV, PCV, Heritability and Genetic Advance','Based on the present investigation, the higher extent of heritability (in broad sense) coupled with high genetic advance was recorded for most of the characters revealing additive genetic effect. It was observed that PCV was higher than GCV for all the selected characters studied. Highest GCV and PCV is recorded for pulp: seed ratio (37.95 and 38.62), number of flakes without seeds (29.32 and 29.98), non-reducing sugar (27.65 and 28.50), shelf life (25.84 and 27.16), acidity (22.58 and 24.19) and number of seeds fruit (21.71 and 22.85) respectively. On the basis of information obtained from the present study, it indicates that there is an existence of greater amount of genetic variability for all the characters in different genotypes, which can be efficiently utilized for improvement of custard apple genotypes by choosing effective breeding program based on genetic makeup of different traits. ','-','Saddam Husain, L.N. Mahawer, Manisha Verma, Iqbal Ahmed, H.L. Bairwa and Arjun Lal Regar (2023). Genetic variability of Custard Apple (Annona squamosa L.) Genotypes under Southern Rajasthan. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 15(9): 367-369.'),(7428,'165','Influence of Intercropping Minor Millets on Growth and Yield of Summer \r\nIrrigated Cotton\r\n','Prasannasreenithi, S.R. Veeraputhiran, A. Gurusamy, G. Anand and P. Kannan','Influence-of-Intercropping-Minor-Millets-on-Growth-and-Yield-of-Summer-R-Veeraputhiran-62.pdf','',1,'The wider interspace available with cotton husbandry can be effectively used by intercropping with short duration millets to enhance the input use efficiency and sustainability. Due to slow growth of cotton and weeds challenges the cotton growth and reduced the yield. In addition, higher input with labour cost lead to reduce economic benefits of cotton cultivation. To overcome the challenges intercropping is having enormous potential. Field experiment was conducted at Central farm, Department of Agronomy, Agriculture College and Research Institute, Madurai, Tamil Nadu, India during summer, March–August 2023 to study the feasibility of minor millet intercropping in cotton. The experiment was laid out in randomized block design with ten treatments and were replicated thrice. The treatments consisted of intercropping of barnyard millet, foxtail millet and finger millet at 1:1 ratio under normal geometry (T1, T3, T3), 2:2 ratio under paired row system (T4, T5, T6) and at 1:3 ratio under replacement series (T7, T8, T9) along with cotton sole cropping as control (T10). The results revealed that, among the intercropping system, plant height was higher in (T4) cotton + barnyard millet at 2:2 ratio and LAI was recorded higher in cotton + foxtail millet at 1:3 ratio (T8). Cotton + foxtail millet at 2:2 (T5) obtained higher dry matter production and also seed cotton yield. The maximum cotton equivalent yield (3061 kg ha-1) was recorded in cotton intercropped with barnyard millet at 2:2 ratio under paired row system (90/60 × 30 cm).','Cotton, minor millets, plant height, LAI, DMP, seed cotton yield and cotton equivalent yield','It can be concluded from the study that intercropping of barnyard millet at 2:2 ratio under paired row system of cotton can be recommended as viable intercropping system for cotton farmers. ','-','Prasannasreenithi, S.R. Veeraputhiran, A. Gurusamy, G. Anand and P. Kannan (2023). Influence of Intercropping Minor Millets on Growth and Yield of Summer Irrigated Cotton. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 15(9): 370-373.'),(7429,'165','Genetic Dissection of Yield and Yield Contributing Traits Employing Descriptive Statistics and Character Association Analysis in Doubled Haploid Population of Maize (Zea mays L.)','Noor E. Mujjassim, H.C. Lohithaswa, Kalmeshwer Gouda Patil, A. Mohan Rao, Sunil Kumar Biradar, Nataraj N. Karaba and N. Mallikarjuna','Genetic-Dissection-of-Yield-and-Yield-Contributing-Traits-Employing-Descriptive-Statistics-and-Character-Association-Analysis-in-Doubled-Haploid-Population-of-Maize-(Zea-mays-L.)-HC-Lohithaswa-63.pdf','',1,'The present study was performed to understand the distribution pattern for seven yield related traits through the estimation of descriptive statistics and to perform correlation coefficient and path analysis in 273 doubled haploid lines developed from the cross PL#08× PL#15 in maize. Analysis of variance revealed mean squares attributable among and between the DHs and the checks were significant for all the traits. These results suggested significant differences among the maize doubled haploid lines. All the quantitative traits exhibited kurtosis value of less than three indicating platykurtic distribution of these traits are platykurtic. It indicated that genetic control of these traits was influenced by many genes, with the majority of them displaying complementary epistasis with increasing effects. Correlation studies revealed that Kernel weight per cob had a significant positive correlation with cob length, cob girth, kernel rows per cob (p<0.001) followed by plant height (p<0.01), and ear height (p<0.05). It indicated that kernel weight per cob can be increased by giving importance to these traits while formulating selection criteria in yield improvement programme. ','Maize, Doubled haploids, Correlation, Complementary epistasis, Platykurtic distribution','All the quantitative traits exhibited platykurtic distribution (< 3.0) which indicated the involvement of many genes, with the majority of them displaying complementary epistasis with increasing effects. Kernel weight per cob had a significant positive correlation with cob length, cob girth, kernel rows per cob followed by plant height and ear height. It indicated that kernel weight per cob can be increased through improvement in characters that showed positive and significant association.','-','Noor E. Mujjassim, H.C. Lohithaswa, Kalmeshwer Gouda Patil, A. Mohan Rao, Sunil Kumar Biradar, Nataraj N. Karaba and N. Mallikarjuna (2023). Genetic Dissection of Yield and Yield Contributing Traits Employing Descriptive Statistics and Character Association Analysis in Doubled Haploid Population of Maize (Zea mays L.). Biological Forum – An International Journal, 15(9): 374-378.'),(7430,'165','Sensory Evaluation of Germinated Groundnuts to Little Millets Powder Laddu','K. Navya, Jessie Suneetha W., B. Anila Kumari and P. Reddypriya ','Sensory-Evaluation-of-Germinated-Groundnuts-to-Little-Millets-Powder-Laddu-Jessie-Suneetha-W-64.pdf','',1,'Global interest is growing in the development of new food products with excellent nutritional quality and utility. Groundnuts are good source of protein and germination improves its nutritional composition. The anti-oxidants and low-calories of little millets benefit in the maintenance of balanced nourishment and ideal weight. The study used germinated groundnuts and little millets in various proportion to evaluate their sensory scores using 9-point hedonic scale. Germination is a low-cost, effective processing technique that has the ability to improve nutritional content, minimize antinutritional components and provide beneficial properties for a range of food applications. The laddu consisting of 2:1 germinated groundnut to little millets powder with 5.0g milk powder being constant scored highly among all the formulations. The sensory scores for appearance, color, flavor, taste, texture, aroma, sweetness and overall acceptability of the best accepted laddu are 8.33±0.15, 8.46±0.13, 8.60±0.13, 8.66±0.12, 8.40±0.16, 8.60±0.13, 9.00±0.00 and 8.80±0.10 respectively. Developing appropriate proportions of germinated groundnuts and germinated little millets were challenging. This study provides new functional ingredients for the developing foods using germinated grains to promote wellbeing and novel food product suitable for underweight persons to improve their nutritional status.','Germination, groundnuts, little millets, sensory evaluation and value added laddu','A combination of 63.50g of germinated groundnut and 31.50g of germinated little millet will be best advised based on all the criteria examined in this study. This is a result of its similar beneficial components, nutritional and sensory features, and health-promoting capabilities, all of which point to the product\'s potential as a useful one. This study will persuade the food sector to utilize powdered germinated groundnut and small millet to enhance the nutritional and sensory quality of the products, which may open the door to an improvement in the general nutritional status of the most vulnerable populations.','-','K. Navya, Jessie Suneetha W., B. Anila Kumari and P. Reddypriya (2023). Sensory Evaluation of Germinated Groundnuts to Little Millets Powder Laddu. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 15(9): 379-382.'),(7431,'165','Genetic Variability, Heritability and Genetic Advance Analysis for Yield and its Attributing Traits in Ridge Gourd Hybrids (Luffa acutangula L.)','Suvedha M., Marichamy M.S., Kanthaswamy V., Vengadessan V. and Venkadeswaran E. ','Genetic-Variability,-Heritability-and-Genetic-Advance-Analysis-for-Yield-and-its-Attributing-Traits-in-Ridge-Gourd-Hybrids-(Luffa-acutangula-L.)-Suvedha-M-65.pdf','',1,'During the rabi season of 2021-2022, a total of eighteen hybrids of ridge gourd were assessed at the Eastern farm of Horticulture, Pandit Jawaharlal Nehru College of Agriculture and Research Institute, Karaikal, U.T. of Puducherry. Observations were meticulously documented for various growth, yield, and quality parameters. For each of the examined traits, it was observed that phenotypic variance exceeded genotypic variation. The slight disparities in genotypic and phenotypic coefficient of variation indicated minimal environmental influence on the considered traits. Notably, traits such as sex ratio, number of male flowers, number of female flowers, number of seeds, number of fruits, weight of individual fruits, vitamin C content, crude protein content, and fruit yield per vine exhibited significantly high estimates of both genotypic and phenotypic coefficient of variation in the current study. Furthermore, the study revealed substantial estimates of heritability and genetic advance for specific traits. These traits included vine length at final harvest, number of primary branches per vine, sex ratio, nodes bearing the first male flower anthesis, nodes bearing the first female flower anthesis, number of male flowers per vine, number of female flowers per vine, fruit length, number of fruits per vine, weight of individual fruit, vitamin C content, crude protein content, total soluble solids content, and fruit yield per vine. This suggests the predominant role of additive gene action in controlling these traits.','Ridge gourd, variability, heritability and genetic advance','This study revealed high variability in traits like sex ratio, number of male flowers per vine, number of female flowers per vine, number of seeds per fruit, number of fruits per vine, individual fruit weight, vitamin C content, calcium content, crude protein content, and fruit yield per vine. Moderate variability was observed for vine length at final harvest, number of primary branches per vine, node bearing the first male flower anthesis, node bearing the first female flower anthesis, fruit length, fruit girth, 100-seed weight, total number of harvests, crude fibre content, and total soluble solids content. \r\nTraits with high heritability and genetic advance, such as vine length at final harvest, number of primary branches per vine, sex ratio, node bearing the first male flower anthesis, node bearing the first female flower anthesis, number of male flowers per vine, number of female flowers per vine, fruit length, number of fruits per vine, individual fruit weight, vitamin C content, crude protein content, total soluble solids content, and fruit yield per vine, are predominantly governed by additive gene action. This indicates the potential for effective selection in crop improvement for these traits.\r\n','-','Suvedha M., Marichamy M.S., Kanthaswamy V., Vengadessan V. and Venkadeswaran E. (2023). Genetic Variability, Heritability and Genetic Advance Analysis for Yield and its Attributing Traits in Ridge Gourd Hybrids (Luffa acutangula L.). Biological Forum – An International Journal, 15(9): 383-386.'),(7432,'165','Comparative Performance Evaluation of Power Operated Weeders for Sugarcane Crop in North Coastal Region of Andhra Pradesh','P. Sreedevi, M. Madhava, M.B. G.S. Kumari, Ch. S. Rama Lakshmi and P.V.K. Jagannadha Rao','Comparative-Performance-Evaluation-of-Power-Operated-Weeders-for-Sugarcane-Crop-in-North-Coastal-Region-of-Andhra-Pradesh-P-Sreedevi-66.pdf','',1,'Sugarcane is a second largest commercial crop in India requiring more labor force starting from planting to harvesting. Out of all operations, intercultural operations contribute10-15% of the total labor cost. Weed management is the major constraint for high productivity of sugarcane. It has been estimated that weeds can cause 12 to 72 percent reduction in yield depending on the severity of infestation. Weeding operations in sugarcane crop were done manually by the farmers in North Coastal region of Andhra Pradesh which is very tedious and labor consuming. A study was conducted to evaluate the performance of different intercultural equipment such as mini tractor with rotavator (T1), Power weeder-I (T2), Power weeder-II (T3), manual weeding (T4), chemical weeding (T4) and compared with control (T6) under wider row spacing of 150 cm with dual row planting. Among all the treatments, cost of weeding operation in T1 treatment was found to be minimum (Rs.5207/-) with a saving of 70% in weeding operation cost and 98% time compared to manual weeding (Rs.17,290/-). Among all the treatments, weeding operation using mini tractor with rotavator recorded highest yield (85 t/ha) with corresponding high weeding efficiency (84%). Thus intercultural operation with rotavator drawn mini tractor can be recommended in sugarcane crop under wider row spacing to reduce cost of cultivation and for higher yields.','Intercultural operations, power weeders, wider spacing, Weeding efficiency','The study shows that the mechanical weeding can save labor cost and time compared to manual weeding and chemical weeding. Among the mechanical weeders studied, it was observed that weeding using mini tractor with rotavator can save time to a tune of 98% and labour cost of 70% with high yield of 85 t/ha followed by power weeder-II, power weeder-I compared to manual weeding. Hence, weeding using mini tractor with rotavator can be recommended to the farmers of North Coastal region with a spacing of 150 cm adopting dual row planting. ','-','P. Sreedevi, M. Madhava, M.B. G.S. Kumari, Ch. S. Rama Lakshmi and P.V.K. Jagannadha Rao (2023). Comparative Performance Evaluation of Power Operated Weeders for Sugarcane Crop in North Coastal Region of Andhra Pradesh. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 15(9): 387-391.'),(7433,'165','Characterization of Soils under Zabo Farming System of Nagaland','Shilpa Mohanty, Sanjay-Swami, N. Janaki Singh, A.K. Singh and Lala I.P. Ray','Characterization-of-Soils-under-Zabo-Farming-System-of-Nagaland-Shilpa-Mohanty-67.pdf','',1,'Long-term usage of a certain land use system may alter the physico-chemical characteristics of the soil, changing its soil quality and nutrient availability to crops. Keeping this in view, an investigation was carried out to assess the physico-chemical properties and nutrient availability status under Zabo farming system, an indigenous farming systems practiced by the Naga tribe in Nagaland. Three villages from Phek district of Nagaland where farmers are practicing Zabo farming system were selected. From each village, 3 sites i.e. terrace, valley and hilltop forest as a reference were selected and from each sites, one composite soil sample (0-15 cm) were collected. The soil samples were analyzed for various physico-chemical properties. For group comparison among 3 villages and 3 forest sites, non-parametric Kruskal-Wallis H-test incorporating Monte-Carlo significance test at 95% confidence limit was used. The result revealed that bulk density (0.80-0.85), particle density (1.1-1.6), MWHC (62-66%) were higher in cultivated soil (terrace and valley) of Zabo system than the hilltop forest soil. The soil under Zabo farming system was found to be acidic in reaction (pH 4.3-5.6) and high in organic matter (2.2-3.6%). The available N (330-365 kg/ha), P (23-33 kg/ha) and K (255-285 kg/ha) were higher in cultivated soil i.e. terrace and valley soils, compared to hilltop forest soil under Zabo farming system. ','Zabo farming system, soil physico-chemical characteristics, nutrient availability, Nagaland','In the present study, BD (0.80-0.85), PD (1.1-1.6), MWHC (62-66%) were higher in cultivated soil (terrace and valley) of Zabo system than the hilltop forest soil which was used as a reference soil. The soil under Zabo farming system was found to be acidic in reaction (pH 4.3-5.6) and high in organic matter (2.2-3.6%). The available N (330-365 kg/ha), available P (23-33 kg/ha) and available K (255-285 kg/ha) were higher in cultivated soil i.e. terrace and valley soils, compared to hilltop forest soil under Zabo farming system. The study clearly indicated that the Zabo farming system improved the soil behaviour. Considerable improvement in available nutrients and organic matter as well as in-situ soil moisture conservation has been observed under this system in hilly eco-system. ','-','Shilpa Mohanty, Sanjay-Swami, N. Janaki Singh, A.K. Singh and Lala I.P. Ray (2023). Characterization of Soils under Zabo Farming System of Nagaland. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 15(9): 392-396.'),(7434,'165','Population Dynamics of Tomato Fruit borer (Helicoverpa armigera Hubner) Infesting Tomato (Lycopersicon esculentum Mill) Crops and their Correlation with Diverse Meteorological Factors under Field Condition','Abhishek Yadav, D.R. Singh, S.K. Biswas, Ram Singh Umrao, Mahak Singh, Arushi Yadav and Arun Kumar ','Population-Dynamics-of-Tomato-Fruit-borer-(Helicoverpa-armigera-Hubner)-Infesting-Tomato-(Lycopersicon-esculentum-Mill)--Crops-and-their-Correlation-Abhishek-Yadav-68.pdf','',1,'The investigation was carried out during Rabi season in 2021–2022, and 2022–2023, at Chandra Shekhar Azad University of Agriculture and Technology, Kanpur, in the Student Instructional Farm (SIF), geographically, the district of Kanpur Nagar is located between latitude 260 29\' north and longitude 79031\' and 80034\' east. It is in the subtropical zone. It is located 125.9 metres above the gangetic alluvial in the centre of Uttar Pradesh. This experiment was conducted to study on the population dynamics of fruit borer Helicoverpa armigera Hubner on tomato, Lycopersicon esculentum Mill. \"of insect-pest infesting tomato crops. It was found that tomato was attacked by tomato fruit borer (Helicoverpa armigera), H. armigera incidence reaching its peak population (7.70 larvae/ plant) in 12 th SMW (4th week of March) during 2021-22 while H. armigera incidence reaching its peak population (8.15 larvae/ plant) in 13 th SMW (4th week of March and first week of April ) during 2022-23. Correlation between tomato fruit borer and abiotic parameter in the year 2022 – 23 that the correlation revealed that larvae population of tomato fruit borer showed significant negative correlation with morning RH (r = -0.662**) and evening RH (r = -0.636**), significant positive correlation with maximum temperature (r = 0.962**), and non significant negative correlation with minimum temperature (r= -0.347), while evaporation have non significant positive correlation (r = .320) with population. The BSS (r = 0.580**) showed significant positive correlation and positive non significant correlation with rainfall (0.311) was observed with insect population. Correlation between tomato fruit borer and abiotic parameter in the year 2022 – 23 that the larval population of tomato fruit borer correlated with abiotic factors showed that significant positive (r = 0.829**) correlation with maximum temperature while negative significant relation found with minimum temperature. RH morning had positive significant (r = 0.655) relationship and negative significant (r = -0.643**) with the population of tomato fruit borer. The evaporation had significant positive (r = 0.432*) correlation while B.S.S (hr) had also significant positive ( r = 0.648**) relation with larval population. ','Population dynamics, Helicoverpa armigera, Tomato, Correlation, larvae, Azad T-6','Initial incidence of the Helicoverpa armigera Hubner was observed on 3.12.2021, in 48th standard week i.e., with a mean number of fruit infestation of 0.05. The fruit damage reached to peak by March 23, 2021 with mean larval population of 7.70 during 12nd standard week.\r\nMore or less similar results of larval population of H. armigera were recorded during 2022-23. Initial incidence of the pest was observed on 2.12.2022, in 48th standard meteorological week i.e., with a mean fruit infestation of 0.20. The fruit damage reached to peak by March 28, 2023 with mean larval population of 8.15 during 13th standard meteorological week.\r\n','-','Abhishek Yadav, D.R. Singh, S.K. Biswas, Ram Singh Umrao, Mahak Singh, Arushi Yadav and Arun Kumar (2023). Population Dynamics of Tomato Fruit borer (Helicoverpa armigera Hubner) Infesting Tomato (Lycopersicon esculentum Mill) Crops and their Correlation with Diverse Meteorological Factors under Field Condition. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 15(9): 397-402.'),(7435,'163','Concept of Pittadharakala and its Modern Perspective','Priya Paijwar, Rita Marwaha, Pankaj Gupta and Swatantra Chourasia','Concept of Pittadharakala and its Modern Perspective-Priya Paijwar-89.pdf','',1,'Ayurveda is a science of life. In Vedic and other ancient literature, the word \"Kala\" has been used in a variety of contexts. Kala Sharir is important concept of Rachana Sharir which mainly dealt about layers or membranes found in different regions or structures/organ in the body. Maharshi Sushruta gave the first description of Kala. He described Kala as a partition separating Dhatu and its Ashaya. Kala serves as an interface (barrier) between Dhatu and Ashaya by serving as the Antar-Maryada (border) between the two entities. The Kalas arrangement supports several Dhatus, proving their presence even though they are invisible. Among seven Kalas, sixth Kala is Pittadhara Kala. As per Acharya Sushruta, it is situated in between the Amashaya (stomach) and Pakwashaya (large intestine). The structure lying between these two organs is small intestine. This Kala receives four types of food materials namely Ashita, Khadita, Peeta, Leedha and facilitates its assimilation, absorption and digestion. Afterword it allows the passage of food material further down into Pakwashaya and it is also known as ‘Grahani’. Pittadhara Kala is the seat for internal Agni, due to Mandagni or impairement of Agni Pittadhara Kala Roga i.e. Grahani Roga occurs “Roga Sarve Api Mandagno”. Kala is an important concept for both healthy and the diseased person, so one should know the layers of body with respect to normal anatomical and physiological manifestation of disease. ','Kala, Pittadhara Kala, Grahani, Dhatu, Ashaya, Membrane, small intestine','On the basis of above discussion, it came to conclude that Kala Sharir is another key notion that ancient Acharyas described in various compendia and human body contains total seven Kalas. Kalas are the lines of separation between Dhatus along with corresponding Ashayas. These are more than just limiting or covering membranes; they also serve important functions in the body\'s tissues. They serve the organs support and protection. Pittadhara Kala is the sixth prime Kala in the body. The review of literature of Amashaya and Pakwashaya & present knowledge of contemporary science indicates that anatomically site of Pittadhara Kala is in between the Amashaya (stomach) and Pakwashaya (large intestine). The structure lying between these two organs is small intestine. This Kala receives four types of food materials namely Ashita, Khadita, Peeta, Leedha and facilitates its assimilation, absorption and digestion. Afterword it allows the passage of food material further down into Pakwashaya. \r\nOn functional understanding Pachaka Pitta may be correlated with digestive enzymes & juices, this helps in digestion of ingested food. Grahana means collection of food, Pachana means Digestion, Shoshan means absorption and assimilation, Vivechana means separation of Sara (useful) and Kitta (waste) products, Munchana means separation and propelling action, are the functions of Pittadhara Kala. It promotes complete digestion, assimilation and absorption. All these functions governed with the help of Pachakagni and Samanvayu at Pachyamanashaya. If any disease occurs at this level it causes Grahani Roga.\r\nOn contemporary it can be understood as mucosal lining situated in between Amashaya (stomach) and Pakwashaya (large intestine) i.e. small intestine, where digestion of Anna (cereals) and absorption of Annarasa (nutritional portions) gets accomplished, is the Pittadhara Kala.\r\n','-','Priya Paijwar, Rita Marwaha, Pankaj Gupta and Swatantra Chourasia (2023). Concept of Pittadharakala and its Modern Perspective. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 15(5a): 569-573.'),(7436,'165','Influence of Nano Urea on Growth, Yield and Nutrient use efficiency of Pigeonpea (Cajanus cajana L.) of Karnataka, India','Amruta Chandrashekhar Mirji, C. Seenappa, T.G. Amrutha, H. Matheekur Rehaman, V. Venkata Chalapathy and H.D. Shilpa ','Influence-of-Nano-Urea-on-Growth,-Yield-and-Nutrient-use-efficiency-of-Pigeonpea-(Cajanus-cajana-L.)-of-Karnataka,-India-HD-SHILPA-69.pdf','',1,'Nano urea particles has an average physical size of 20 -50 nm and contains 4 % nitrogen by weight in its nano form. Further, application of nano urea (liquid) improves yield, biomass, soil health and nutritional quality of the produce due to higher absorption rate, utilization efficacy and minimum losses. The field experiment was conducted at ZARS, GKVK, Bangalore, Karnataka, India during Kharif 2021 on influence of nano urea on growth, yield and quality of pigeonpea. Results indicated that application of RDF (Nano Urea) + foliar application of ZnSO4 @ 0.5 % + FeSO4 @ 0.5 % resulted significantly higher number of pods plant-1 (116.2), pod yield (52.3 g plant-1), pod bearing length plant-1 (64.7 cm) seed yield (1179 kg ha-1) and stalk yield (4568 kg ha-1) and higher uptake of nutrients (kg ha-1) i.e., nitrogen (111.5), phosphorus (16.9) and potassium (82.3)hence higher nutrient use efficiency (kg grains kg-1 nutrient applied) i.e., nitrogen (93.0), phosphorus (23.58) and potassium use efficiency (47.16) and across the different phenophases of crop, from 120 DAS till harvest higher values of absolute growth rate(1.97g plant-1day-1), crop growth rate (14.57 g m-2 day-1)and relative growth rate (0.012 g g-1 day-1) were observed.','Yield, stalk nitrogen phosphorus and potassium','Based on the results obtained from the present investigation, the following practices are beneficial in pigeonpea cultivation. Application of 100 per cent of RDPK and 50 per cent of RDN through normal urea as basal dose and foliar application of nano urea (3 ml l-1) in three sprays at 60, 90 and 120 DAS has improved the crop growth, yield, quality and B: C ratio in pigeonpea compared to only RDF through normal urea. Foliar application of water-soluble zinc and iron sulphate @ 5 per cent each, at flowering and pod development stages along with nano urea and RDF has produced higher growth, yield and improved quality of pigeonpea compared to the soil application of zinc and ferrous sulphate with nano urea. Foliar application of nano urea and water-soluble zinc and iron sulphate along with RDF in pigeonpea recorded 34.8 per cent higher yield compared to only RDF through normal urea. Application of RDF along with foliar application of nano urea and soil application of zinc and ferrous sulphate is more economical and recorded higher net returns (Rs. 39346 ha-1) and B: C ratio (2.02) compared to only RDF.','-','Amruta Chandrashekhar Mirji, C. Seenappa, T.G. Amrutha, H. Matheekur Rehaman, V. Venkata Chalapathy and H.D. Shilpa (2023). Influence of Nano Urea on Growth, Yield and Nutrient use efficiency of Pigeonpea (Cajanus cajana L.) of Karnataka, India. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 15(9): 403-409.'),(7437,'165','Managing Mungbean Seed Health: Impact of Chemical and Natural Seed Treatments on Occurrence of Diseases and insects under Ambient Storage conditions','Shreya Singh, A.L. Jatav, Gaurav Yadav and Harshit Gupta ','Managing-Mungbean-Seed-Health-Impact-of-Chemical-and-Natural-Seed-Treatments-on-Occurrence-of-Diseases-and-insects-under-Ambient-Storage-conditions-Shreya-Singh-70.pdf','',1,'Preserving seed quality during storage involves controlled conditions or seed treatment, with the latter being more practical due to lower expenses. The present study was oriented towards discovering a seed treatment that can keep mungbean seeds free of disease infection and insect attacks for the longest possible time. It was conducted in the seed testing laboratory, CSA University of Agriculture and Technology, Kanpur, Uttar Pradesh, during 2021-22 to study the effect of seed coating with chemicals (T3: Cypermethrin, T4: Bavistin), bioagents (T1: Rhizobium, T2: Trichoderma), botanical (T5: Neem oil), and domestically available substances (T6: Camphor) on disease infection and insect infestation of mungbean seeds (var. Sweta) when stored under ambient conditions. Irrespective of seed coating treatments, the seeds deteriorated with increased disease infection and insect infestation after 17 months of storage. Seeds coated with T5: Neem oil @ 5 ml/kg recorded the lowest disease infection (2.33%) as well as insect infestation (8%) compared to T0: Control (untreated seeds), which recorded 5% disease infection and 14.71% insect infestation at the end of 17 months of storage. Neem oil is an advantageous and environmentally friendly alternative to synthetic chemical seed treatments, which is effective against pests and diseases. The study highlights the enduring challenge of maintaining seed integrity during prolonged storage periods.','Disease infection, insect infestation, mungbean, seed treatment','This research underscores the ongoing challenge of preserving seed integrity during extended storage. The study demonstrates that the seeds treated with neem oil @5ml/kg of seed, effectively safeguards mungbean seeds from diseases and insect attacks for up to 14 months in storage. Therefore, neem oil @ 5ml/kg of seeds, can be recommended for seed treatment in mungbean to ensure optimal seed health during storage under ambient conditions.','-','Shreya Singh, A.L. Jatav, Gaurav Yadav and Harshit Gupta (2023). Managing Mungbean Seed Health: Impact of Chemical and Natural Seed Treatments on Occurrence of Diseases and insects under Ambient Storage conditions. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 15(9): 410-414.'),(7438,'165','Evaluating Drought Tolerance in Rice through In-Vitro PEG Screening and Analysing the Effectiveness of drought Tolerant Traits through Correlation','Ashwin Bernald G., N.B. John Kingsly, Gokul M., Ramchander S., Joseph P.A. and Dinesh Kumar P. ','Evaluating-Drought-Tolerance-in-Rice-through-In-Vitro-PEG-Screening-and-Analysing-the-Effectiveness-of-drought-Tolerant-Traits-through-Correlation-NB-John-Kingsly-71.pdf','',1,'Rice is considered a staple food for half of the world\'s population, is notably vulnerable to a spectrum of abiotic stresses, with drought ranking among the most formidable challenges due to its detrimental impact on yield. Evaluating drought tolerance in field conditions is a labour intensive and time consuming process. Consequently, an alternative approach involves the use of polyethylene glycol to artificially induce drought. The main aim of this study was to identify rice genotypes that exhibit early-stage drought tolerance from a pool of 95 genotypes. To accomplish this, polyethylene glycol (PEG-6000) was harnessed as an artificial inducer of drought stress, facilitating the examination of a diverse range of rice genotypes. The experimental protocol was executed under a Completely Randomised Design (CRD) with four distinct PEG concentrations and three replications. As PEG solution concentrations escalated from the control (0%) to 15%, 20%, and 25%, the examined traits encompassing germination percentage, shoot length, root length, seedling fresh weight, seedling dry weight, total seedling length, relative water content and seedling vigour index experienced significant reductions. Subsequent correlation analysis illuminated strong positive relationships among these traits under the imposed stress conditions. This research not only enhances our understanding of trait interactions during drought stress but also provides valuable insights for the potential refinement of drought-tolerant rice cultivars.','Rice, Drought, Polyethylene glycol (PEG), Correlation','In the present study, the traits responsible for early stage drought screening have been identified. These intricate correlations among the traits unveil the complex interplay between different traits under varying conditions, providing valuable insights into the rice seedlings\' adaptability to stress. The traits under study have strong positive correlation among them and showed significant results. Thus, these traits have the potential to serve as a valuable tool in the selection process within breeding programs and to aid in the identification of early stage drought tolerant genotypes. Identifying lines displaying greater variability among the traits, particularly those strongly correlated with drought resistance, can serve as valuable parent candidates in breeding programs aimed at developing varieties capable of withstanding drought conditions.','-','Ashwin Bernald G., N.B. John Kingsly, Gokul M., Ramchander S., Joseph P.A. and Dinesh Kumar P. (2023). Evaluating Drought Tolerance in Rice through In-Vitro PEG Screening and analysing the effectiveness of drought tolerant traits through correlation. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 15(9): 415-423.'),(7439,'165','Estimation of Heterosis in Hybrid Seedlings of Drumstick (Moringa oleifera)\r\n','Manju A., Sindhumole P., Jiji Joseph, Pradheep K., Sangeeta Kutty M. and Seeja Thomachan Panjikkaran ','Estimation-of-Heterosis-in-Hybrid-Seedlings-of-Drumstick-(Moringa-oleifera)-Manju-A-72.pdf','',1,'Two hybrid seedlings of drumstick (Moringa oleifera) derived from two crosses between Jaffna and PKM1 (MF1H1) and IC632344 and PKM1 (MF1H2) were evaluated for juvenile growth and nutrient content to study the heterosis (hybrid vigor) at College of Agriculture, Kerala agricultural University, Trissur during 2022-2023. Positive heterosis was evident in both the hybrids for seedling height, root collar girth, number of live leaves, stem volume index, dry recovery of leaf and beta-carotene. Also they marked superiority over parents and check variety in case of short intermodal length. Specifically noted the positive heterosis of MF1H1 for Seedling vigour index as well as iron content and MF1H2 for protein content. Regarding the seed germination and vit. C content, both hybrids noted for inferior to the parents and check variety. The heterotic advantages emphasize the potential of harnessing hybrid vigor through hybridisation for the genetic improvement of drumstick.','Moringa oleifera, hybrid, heterosis, germination, growth, biochemical','The evaluation of two hybrid drumstick seedlings, resulting from crosses between Jaffna and PKM1 (MF1H1) and IC632344 and PKM1 (MF1H2) revealed significant insights into the phenomenon of heterosis. In the analysis of initial growth and biochemical parameters, the hybrids expressed superiority over parents for majority of the characters like seedling height, root collar girth, live leaf count, stem volume index, dry leaf recovery, and beta-carotene content. Specifically, the hybrid MF1H1 displayed noteworthy heterosis in terms of Seedling Vigor Index and iron content, while MF1H2 exhibited such enhancement in protein content. However, with respect to seed germination and vitamin C content, both hybrids displayed inferior performance compared to their parent plants and the check variety. These findings collectively emphasize the potential of harnessing hybrid vigor through heterosis breeding for the genetic improvement of drumstick varieties, as well as the necessity for further research to fully comprehend the underlying mechanisms driving these observed variations.','-','Manju A., Sindhumole P., Jiji Joseph, Pradheep K., Sangeeta Kutty M. and Seeja Thomachan Panjikkaran (2023). Estimation of Heterosis in Hybrid Seedlings of Drumstick (Moringa oleifera). Biological Forum – An International Journal, 15(9): 424-428.'),(7440,'165','Exploring the Impact of Plant Growth Regulators on Growth and Physiological Responses in Hybrid Rice Cultivation','Shikha Shahi, P. K. Singh, S.P. Kushwaha, Mayanker Singh and Bipin Kumar Chaudhary ','Exploring-the-Impact-of-Plant-Growth-Regulators-on-Growth-and-Physiological-Responses-in-Hybrid-Rice-Cultivation-Shikha-Shahi-73.pdf','',1,'Plant growth regulators are artificial synthetic agents used for promoting or inhibiting growth, biochemical changes, phenology, quality characters and other plant physiological processes. The present study was performed at Student Instructional Farm of C. S. Azad University of Agriculture & Technology, Kanpur to evaluate the Aftermath of plant growth regulator’s foliar application on growth and Physiological characters of Rice. The experiment was conducted in randomized block design, with treatments consisting of foliar spray with IAA (25 & 50ppm), IBA (25 & 50ppm), NAA (25 & 50ppm), Ascorbic Acid (50 & 100ppm) and Kinetin (5 & 10ppm). The effect of foliar application of different concentration of plant growth regulators on Growth and physiological characters in rice were observed at tillering, anthesis, dough and at maturity stage. Growth parameters like plant height, number of tillers and leaf traits namely Total Leaf Area and Chlorophyll intensity recorded significant enhancement by the foliar application of IAA @ 50ppm. Significantly higher chlorophyll intensity in leaves were estimated at anthesis stage with the foliar spray of IAA @ 50ppm and followed by IAA @ 25ppm. Various traits of plant growth and physiology were altered under the application of Indole-3-acetic acid (i.e., Plant height, number of tillers plant-1, total leaf area plant-1 and chlorophyll intensity in leaves). According to above outcome of the experiment, it can be concluded that the foliar application of Indole Acetic Acid (IAA) is one of the most promising growth promoting hormones and it will definitely play significant role to change growth and physiological character in hybrid rice.','Plant growth regulators, hybrid rice, growth, Physiological character','The application of IAA at a concentration of 50 ppm via foliar method exhibited remarkable effects on enhancing plant stature, increasing the number of tillers, expanding the overall leaf expanse, and intensifying chlorophyll content in hybrid plants. Notably, IAA at 25 ppm also demonstrated substantial benefits in these aspects. To summarize, our discoveries underscore the pivotal role of IAA in orchestrating root growth and bolstering detoxification mechanisms in rice plants. Plant hormones assume a crucial function in governing plant reactions to various growth-related and physiological metrics.','-','Shikha Shahi, P. K. Singh, S.P. Kushwaha, Mayanker Singh and Bipin Kumar Chaudhary (2023). Exploring the Impact of Plant Growth Regulators on Growth and Physiological Responses in Hybrid Rice Cultivation. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 15(9): 429-433.'),(7441,'165','Economic Evaluation of Summer Legumes Incorporation on Succeeding Kharif Rice','T. Sunil Kumar, H.M. Virdia, K.G. Patel, G.V. Sumanth Kumar and Madhavan G. ','Economic-Evaluation-of-Summer-Legumes-Incorporation-on-Succeeding-Kharif-Rice-T-Sunil-Kumar-74.pdf','',1,'At the College Farm, Navsari Agricultural University, Navsari (Gujarat), a field experiment was carried out in the summer and kharif of 2021 and 2022. The study included four main plot treatments, namely, T1: Green gram, T2: Cowpea, T3: Dhaincha and T4: Fallow which were sown in summer season, replicated thrice in a randomized block design. Summer legume residues, namely green gram (T1) and cowpea (T2), were incorporated after final crop harvest, while dhaincha (T3) was incorporated at 50% flowering in corresponding plots. Each main plot treatment was carried out throughout the kharif season was divided into six sub-plot treatments as levels of recommended dose of fertilizer to kharif rice, which include W1: 100% RDF, W2: 75% RDF, W3: 50% RDF, W4: 75% RDF + 25% N from FYM, W5: 50% RDF + 50% N from FYM, and W6: No-fertilizer application; resulting in twenty-four treatment combinations replicated thrice in a split plot design. Results posed that the higher (₹/ha 95332, 108322, 101744), net returns ((₹/ha 33478, 46044, 39678) was also recorded higher in rice grown in dhaincha incorporated plots with BCR of 1.54, 1.74, 1.64 in 2021, 2022 and in pooled study respectively. With the application of 100% RDF, maximum gross and net returns (/ha 111152, 51341; 125096, 64761; 118050, 57977) and BCR (1.86, 2.07, 1.97) were greater, while the lowest BCR (1.05, 1.21, 1.13) was in 2021, 2022, and on a pooled basis. Higher gross and net returns were observed in the green gram-rice cropping sequence during the pooled study, with a BCR of 2.22 in the treatment green gram-100% RDF (T1W1) and the lowest being in treatment T4W6 (1.03). Based on the findings of the two-year experiment, it was observed that introducing dhaincha with 100% RDF (Recommended Dose of Fertilizer) yielded positive financial outcomes. Additionally, considering the cropping sequence, it was determined that green gram during the summer season followed by rice cultivation with 100% RDF resulted in greater financial advantages.','Summer legumes, Net reruns, Gross returns, Benefit cost ratio, Rice','Dhaincha incorporation considerably increased gross return, net return, and BCR over other summer legumes and fallow. With 100% RDF, the gross return, net return, and BCR all increased. Similarly, at 100% RDF, rice crops sown after dhaincha incorporation had a much higher net return and B:C ratio than crops sown following summer fallow with no fertilizer application. Green gram had a higher rice equivalent with 100% RDF. When the summer legume-kharif rice sequence was assessed, the green gram-rice sequence had better economic returns and BCR.','-','T. Sunil Kumar, H.M. Virdia, K.G. Patel, G.V. Sumanth Kumar and Madhavan G. (2023). Economic Evaluation of Summer Legumes Incorporation on Succeeding Kharif Rice. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 15(9): 434-439.'),(7442,'165','Soil Micro-flora as influenced by Nutrient Management Practices and \r\nCropping System\r\n','Priya Kochale, P.B. Sharma, R.P. Sahu, Shani Gulaiya, Kamal Kishor Patel and Abhishek Sharma','Soil-Micro-flora-as-influenced-by-Nutrient-Management-Practices-and-Cropping-System-Priya-Kochale-75.pdf','',1,'The field experiment was conducted during three seasons (Kharif, Rabi and Summer) in the two consecutive years 2021-22 to 2022-23 at Instructional Research Farm, Department of Agronomy, College of Agriculture, Jawaharlal Nehru Krishi Vishwa Vidyalaya, Jabalpur, Madhya Pradesh, India. The experiment was laid out in split plot design with 24 treatment combinations of six different nutrient management practices and 4 cropping system. The allocation of various treatments to different plots was done randomly with three replications. Under main plot, NM1 (100% organic), NM2 (50% Organic NM + NF inputs Beejamrit + Ghanjeevamrit + Jeevamrit), NM3 (50% Organic NM + 50% Inorganic NM), NM4 (25% Organic NM + NF inputs Beejamrit + Ghanjeevamrit + Jeevamrit + 25% Inorganic NM), NM5 (Farmer practices), NM6 (100% Inorganic NM). CS1 (Soybean-wheat), CS2 (Soybean-berseem), CS3 (Soybean-mustard-green gram), CS4 (Soybean-lentil-sorghum) allotted under sub-plot. The results revealed that biological properties of soil were significantly enhanced by different nutrient management practices and cropping system during both the years of experimentation. The bacterial (46.81 × 105 cfu g-1 soil) and fungal population (42 × 103 cfu g-1 soil) was found maximum under 100% organic nutrient management followed by INM (25% + 25%). Whereas the actinomycetes population was maximum (14 × 102 cfu g-1 of soil) under INM (25% organic + 25% inorganic + NF inputs) followed by 50% organic + NF inputs with soybean-mustard-green gram cropping system. ','Soybean based cropping system, nutrient management, bacteria, fungi, and actinomycetes','Based on the results it can be concluded that the microbial population slightly changes from the initial status due to different nutrient management practices and cropping system. The bacterial and fungal population was maximum under 100% nutrient management while the actinomycetes population was maximum under INM (25% organic +25% inorganic) + NF inputs with soybean- mustard - green gram cropping system.','-','Priya Kochale, P.B. Sharma, R.P. Sahu, Shani Gulaiya, Kamal Kishor Patel and Abhishek Sharma (2023). Soil Micro-flora as influenced by Nutrient Management Practices and Cropping System. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 15(9): 440-443.'),(7443,'165','Genetic Improvement in Banana: A Breeding Approach','Divya Hari, Simi S. and Manju P.R. ','Genetic-Improvement-in-Banana-A-Breeding-Approach-Divya-Hari-76.pdf','',1,'Banana is a major fruit crop grown in the tropical and sub-tropical regions. The sustainable banana production is threatened by an ever increasing range of pests and diseases and adverse environmental conditions like drought and salinity. Enhancing the genetic makeup of bananas is essential for creating novel varieties that are both high-yielding and well-suited to various environmental circumstances. The combination of traditional breeding methods with advanced biotechnology, such as genomic research and transformation techniques, holds significant promise in driving the attainment of a sustainable banana production system. The breeding programs include introduction, selection, mutation breeding, hybridization and biotechnological approach to expedite the development of improved banana varieties with desired traits, including disease resistance, climate resilience, and nutritional value. Thus, developing banana varieties/ hybrids suitable for sustainable production under changing climatic conditions is the need of the hour.','Conventional, biotechnological, introduction, selection, mutation, hybridization','Integration of high-throughput technologies from various scientific fields further accelerates the breeding process. Molecular biology techniques such as Marker-Assisted Selection (MAS) and Genomic Selection (GS) enable breeders to rapidly identify and select plants with the desired traits based on their genetic makeup. Tissue culture methods, including the embryo culture, multiple shoot induction etc. aid in the production of huge numbers of plants with favorable traits, allowing for faster evaluation and selection.\r\nFurthermore, information technology plays a crucial role in streamlining breeding programs. Tools like the banana tracker, which likely refers to software or systems designed for tracking and managing breeding data, facilitate data organization, analysis, and decision-making. These technological advancements collectively contribute to the acceleration of breeding programs and enable the development of desirable banana hybrids in a shorter time frame. In summary, the combination of genetic modification, genome editing, and advanced scientific technologies in banana breeding programs offers immense potential for creating varieties with desirable traits. The existing natural variation in bananas, coupled with high-throughput molecular biology, tissue culture, and information technology, paves the way for rapid and efficient crop improvement in the years to come.\r\n','-','Divya Hari, Simi S. and Manju P.R. (2023). Genetic Improvement in Banana: A Breeding Approach. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 15(9): 444-447.'),(7444,'165','Standardization and Sensory Evaluation of Pickle made from Manali Tamarind','S. Rachana Sree, T. Supraja, K. Aparna, M. Prasuna and D. Srinivasa Chary ','Standardization and Sensory Evaluation of Pickle made from Manali Tamarind-S Rachana Sree-77.pdf','',1,'The present study was intended to develop the Manali tamarind pickle and to assess the acceptability through sensory evaluation. Pickles always plays an important role which adds taste, flavour and makes food palatable. It is made in different ways based on the location where southern parts prepare with spices, condiments and sesame or groundout oil as preservative and northern parts prepare sweet pickles using vinegar and mustard oil. During the fermentation process, that brings desirable changes which enhances the nutritional, sensory and keeping quality parameters of the pickle. Different combinations (10% to 70%) were made by incorporating with fresh arils. The best accepted combination sensorially was P3 i.e., 30%. Due to the fruit\'s seasonality, there was a limited supply and difficulty for obtaining the raw ingredient.','Manali tamarind, pickles, fermentation, sensory evaluation and health benefits','Without any proper information or understanding of microbial functionality, fermented foods have been a component of the human diet for thousands of years because of changes in their natural form that contribute to enhanced flavor and prominent nutritional characteristics. In the present study pickles were made with 10% to 70% incorporation of fresh arils the acceptability was high for 30% incorporation. As the amount increased beyond it the acceptability scores has decreased which may be due to the dominant taste of the arils which had umami, sour and astringent taste and decrease of the other spices in it. ','-','S. Rachana Sree, T. Supraja, K. Aparna, M. Prasuna and D. Srinivasa Chary (2023). Standardization and Sensory Evaluation of Pickle made from Manali Tamarind. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 15(9): 448-453.'),(7445,'165','Effect of Seed Priming Techniques on Seed Yield and its Attributes characters in Field Pea (Pisum sativum L.) under rainfed Condition','Maneesh Kumar, Alok Kumar, Dheeraj Katiyar, Abhishek Pati Tiwari and Shivani Kaundal ','Effect-of-Seed-Priming-Techniques-on-Seed-Yield-and-its-Attributes-characters-in-Field-Pea-(Pisum-sativum-L.)-under-rainfed-Condition-Alok-Kumar-78.pdf','',1,'In order to study the “Effect of seed priming techniques on seed yield and its attributes characters in field pea (Pisum sativum L) under rainfed condition” an experiment was carried out in Split Plot Design with three replications. The two field pea variety viz, KPMR-522 (Jay) and KPMR-400 (Indra) having fourteen seed priming treatments during the Rabi season of 2019-20 and 2020-21 at Oil Seed Farm, CSA University, Kanpur. The data of analysis of variance of pooled data revealed that variety KPMR-522 was significantly superior in yield and yield related aspects as compared to variety KPMR-400. The seed priming techniques i.e. seed coating with Bio-NPK and drought alleviating bacteria resulted in maximum yield and yield components as compared to other treatments. Thus, from this experiment it may be concluded that seed coating with drought alleviating bacteria + Bio-NPK can be used to increase pea seed yield while being both environmentally and economically feasible.','Bio-grow, Bio-NPK, Bio-Phos, Pea, Seed Priming Yield','Due to uneven rainfall, crop plants in rainfed areas frequently encounter conditions resembling water deficits, which restrict plant growth and lower potential yield. Under a variety of environmental conditions, various seed invigoration techniques, such as seed priming and seed coating bio-inoculants, have been effective in enhancing the yield-attributing characters that ultimately increased the yield. The study revealed that seed coating (on hydro primed seed) with drought alleviating bacteria and Bio-NPK was proved as most useful in increasing the yield of field pea under sub-optimal rain fed condition.','-','Maneesh Kumar, Alok Kumar, Dheeraj Katiyar, Abhishek Pati Tiwari and Shivani Kaundal (2023). Effect of Seed Priming Techniques on Seed Yield and its Attributes characters in Field Pea (Pisum sativum L.) under rainfed Condition. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 15(9): 454-457.'),(7446,'147','Biochemical characterization of Ralstonia solanacearum causing Chilli \r\nBacterial Wilt\r\n','Abhisek Tripathy, Akshaya Kumar Senapati and Satya Narayan Satapathy','Biochemical-characterization-of-Ralstonia-solanacearum-causing-Chilli-Bacterial-Wilt-Abhisek-Tripathy-132.pdf','',1,'In the coastal vegetable belt of Odisha, Ralstonia solanacearum-caused chilli bacterial wilt is a fairly well-known disease. It causes around 100 percent yield loss in the farmer’s field. The condition is extremely complex, and numerous physical, cultural, chemical, and biological approaches have been tried and failed to control it. The purpose of this study is to determine the diversity of the various isolates and their chances of survival. Five isolates were obtained for this study from the Odisha coastal vegetable region. The isolates were given the numbers RS 1, RS 2, RS 3, RS 4, and RS 5. They were also examined for diversity studies, which take into account biochemical variation among them. The biovar determination test confirmed that Ralstonia is a member of Race 1 biovar 3 based on the test results. The bacteria responded positively to the catalase test, the KoH Solubility Test, and the nitrate reduction test, but not to the starch hydrolysis test. From this study, we got an idea about the diversity among various isolates of Ralstonia which in turn will help to manage this particular problem efficiently.','Ralstonia solanacearum, Chilli, Oxidase test, catalase test, Nitrate test, KOH solubility test, Starch hydrolysis','Based on the above test results, it is confirmed that Ralstonia belongs to Race 1 biovar 3 through the biovar determination test. Bacterium has showed positive reaction towards catalase test, KoH Solubility Test, nitrate reduction test while showed negative reaction on starch hydrolysis test. ','-','Abhisek Tripathy, Akshaya Kumar Senapati and Satya Narayan Satapathy (2022). Biochemical characterization of Ralstonia solanacearum causing Chilli Bacterial Wilt. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 14(4a): 781-785.'),(7447,'165','Sugarcane Clones under Early Planting (January) suitable for Moisture Stress Conditions of Andhra Pradesh','Mukunda Rao Ch, P.S. Rao, M. Charumathi, D. Adilakshmi, T. Chitkala Devi, M. Bharathalakshmi and P.V.K. Jagannadha Rao','Sugarcane-Clones-under-Early-Planting-(January)-suitable-for-Moisture-Stress-Conditions-of-Andhra-Pradesh-PS-Rao 79.pdf','',1,'Fifteen prerelease sugarcane clones were tested against sugarcane varieties 87A 298 and 83V 15 as checks for their suitability to early planted conditions (January planting) under moisture stress/drought at Regional Agricultural Research Station, Anakapalle during 2020-21, 2021-22 and 2022-23. Sugarcane clones tolerant to moisture stress is need of the hour as sugarcane yields are drastically reducing due to moisture stress/drought. Field experiments were conducted with stress and non-stress treatments for evaluation of sugarcane clones tolerance to soil moisture stress/drought. It is a great challenge to identify a drought tolerant sugarcane clone for adoption by the sugarcane farmers to reap higher tonnage of nearly 15-20 t/ha as an extra yield which is great boon to the sugarcane cultivators. Among fifteen prerelease sugarcane clones tested sugarcane clones 2015A 51 (96.06 t/ha), 2015A 233 (94.14 t/ha), 2015A 183 (89.12 t/ha) and 2015A 93 (84.09 t/ha) recorded higher cane yield over other clones tested. The standards 87A 298 and 83V 15 recorded a cane yield of 73.02 t/ha and 85.076 t/ha which are lower than the superior clones. These clones also recorded significantly low SLA which indicates more photosynthetic assimilates per unit area. SPAD/SCMR values at 120 DAP under stress conditions (Summer). These sugarcane clones also recorded significantly higher SPAD/SCMR values with standard 87A 298. The ancillary data denoting stress tolerance like sheath moisture per cent, root spread area, total bio mass production per stool under stress and physiological parameters like leaf proline content is also high in these sugarcane clones. Based on three years findings, sugarcane clones 2015A 51, 2015A 233, 2015A 183 and 2015A 93 were found to be suitable for drought/soil moisture stress condition of cane cultivation based on cane yield, ancillary data and physiological traits in relation to moisture stress tolerance. The drought tolerance efficiency per cent was high in 2015A 59 (92.08%) followed by 2015A 233 (89.33%) and 2015A 93 (87.98%) over other clones tested. The standards 87A 298 and 83V 15 recorded a drought tolerance efficiency per cent of 72.27and 67.52 respectively. ','Moisture stress, CSI, SPAD/SCMR, leaf proline, cane yield, Membrane injury index','Among 15 sugarcane clones studied in comparison with 87A 298 under early planted stress conditions, sugarcane clones 2015A 51, 2015A 233, 2015A 183, 2015A 93 are found suitable for cane cultivation under stress situations of limited irrigated conditions based on cane yield and quality parameters in relation to ancillary yield parameters and physiological stress tolerance traits.','-','Mukunda Rao Ch, P.S. Rao, M. Charumathi, D. Adilakshmi, T. Chitkala Devi, M. Bharathalakshmi and P.V.K. Jagannadha Rao (2023). Sugarcane Clones under Early Planting (January) suitable for Moisture Stress Conditions of Andhra Pradesh. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 15(9): 458-464.'),(7448,'165','Effect of Polyamines, Packaging Materials and Storage conditions on Shelf Life of Banana (Musa paradisiaca L.) cv. Grand Naine','Bhadke T.G., Joshi V.R., Garande V.K. and Dhakare B.B. ','Effect-of-Polyamines,-Packaging-Materials-and-Storage-conditions-on-Shelf-Life-of-Banana-(Musa-paradisiaca-L.)-cv.-Grand-Naine-Bhadke-T.G-80.pdf','',1,'The present investigation on “Effect of polyamines, packaging materials and storage conditions on shelf life of banana (Musa paradisiaca L.) cv. Grand Naine” was conducted during June 2021 and November 2021 at the Laboratory of Postharvest Technology, Department of Horticulture, MPKV., Rahuri, Dist. Ahmednagar. The effect of polyamines, packaging materials and storage conditions on shelf life of banana cv. Grand Naine was laid out with three polyamine treatments viz., A1 - Putrescine @ 5mM, A2 - Spermine @5 µM, A3 - Spermidine@ 4 mM, four packaging materials viz., P1 -Perforated polyethylene bag, P2- Nano silver based bag, P3- KMnO4 based ethylene absorber 4g, P4 - KMnO4 based ethylene absorber6g, two different storage conditions viz., S1 -Ambient temperature and S2 - Cold storage (13°C+1).\r\nDuring storage, lowest physiological loss in weight (%), ripening (%), spoilage (%) and moisture content (%) recorded in treatment combination A2P4S2 i.e. spermine @ 5 µM + KMnO4 based ethylene absorber 6 g + cold storage (130C+1) at the end of storage life. From concluded that fruits treated with A2P4S2 i.e. spermine @ 5 µM + KMnO4 based ethylene absorber 6 g + cold storage (13°C+1) was found best treatment for extension of shelf life of banana. Banana is a climacteric fruit, rapid physico-chemical changes after harvest leads to deterioration and senescence. Therefore, there is a need to regulate its ripening so as to improve its shelf life.\r\n','Banana, polyamines, packaging materials, ethylene absorber, quality and shelf life','From the experiment it can be concluded that polyamines, packaging materials and storage conditions improve the shelf life of banana fruits. Considering physical parameters viz., physiological loss in weight (%), ripening (%), spoilage (%) and moisture content (%) the treatment, spermine 5 µM + KMnO4 based ethylene absorber 6g + cold storage (13°C+1) was found to be best recorded highest shelf life up to 20 days in banana cv. Grand Naine at ambient conditions and 26 days under cold storage. Effect of polyamines on the health of humans can be studied before recommendation. ','-','Bhadke T.G., Joshi V.R., Garande V.K. and Dhakare B.B. (2023). Effect of Polyamines, Packaging Materials and Storage conditions on Shelf Life of Banana (Musa paradisiaca L.) cv. Grand Naine. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 15(9): 465-475.'),(7449,'148','Cultural and Morphological Characterization of Ralstonia solanacearum causing Chilli Bacterial Wilt','Abhisek Tripathy, Akshaya Kumar Senapati and Satya Narayan Satapathy','Cultural-and-Morphological-characterization-of-Ralstonia-solanacearum-causing-Chilli-Bacterial-Wilt-Abhisek-Tripathy-111.pdf','',1,'In the coastal vegetable belt of Odisha, Ralstonia solanacearum-caused chilli bacterial wilt is a fairly well-known disease. It causes around 100 percent yield loss in the farmer’s field. The condition is extremely complex, and numerous physical, cultural, chemical, and biological approaches have been tried and failed to control it. The purpose of this study is to determine the diversity of the various isolates and their chances of survival. Five isolates were obtained for this study from the Odisha coastal vegetable region. RS 1, RS 2, RS 3, RS 4, and RS 5 were the names given to the various isolates. They were also examined for diversity studies, including cultural and physical differences. They were all evaluated for colony growth in various growth medium, and it was discovered that TZC media and CPG media were the best. Ralstonia solanacearum\'s cultural traits, including colony color, colony count, and colony form, were examined in vitro using the four-culture media. The TZC agar plate had the highest average colony count (72.00), which featured white fluidal colonies with pink spherical centres, and the lowest average colony count (56.00), which featured irregular yellow colonies. From this study, we got an idea about the diversity among various isolates of Ralstonia which in turn will help to manage this particular problem efficiently.','Ralstonia solanacearum, culture media, Chilli, Triphenyl tetrazolium chloride, Nutrient Agar, Mac conkey agar, CPG agar','According to the above test results, TZC media is the best media for the growth of R. solanacearum among the other media. To justify it TZC media showed highest amount of growth of the bacteria i.e. 72.00.','-','Abhisek Tripathy, Akshaya Kumar Senapati and Satya Narayan Satapathy (2023). Cultural and Morphological characterization of Ralstonia solanacearum causing Chilli Bacterial Wilt. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 15(1): 689-693.'),(7450,'165','Unveiling the Multifaceted Abilities of Halotolerant Phosphate Solubilizing Bacteria Isolated from the Kutch Desert Ecosystem','Anurag Yadav, Rahulkumar Chauhan, Kavin Soni and Kusum Yadav ','Unveiling-the-Multifaceted-Abilities-of-Halotolerant-Phosphate-Solubilizing-Bacteria-Isolated-from-the-Kutch-Desert-Ecosystem-Anurag-Yadav-81.pdf','',1,'The study explored and characterized the functionalities of halotolerant phosphate solubilizing bacteria (PSB) isolated from soils of various locations in the Kutch desert. The isolates were screened for phosphate and zinc solubilization, and their growth patterns were analyzed under different NaCl concentrations. The three screened isolates—PH27, PH28, and PH30—were characterized biochemically and identified as Enterobacter bugandensis PH27, Psychrobacter faecalis PH28, and Bacillus amyloliquefaciens PH30 through 16S rRNA sequencing. While the study is comprehensive, it inherently faces several challenges. The complexity of microbial enzymology and the interactions between environmental variables and microbial functionality pose challenges in data interpretation. A temporal growth analysis of isolates revealed phosphorus solubilization capabilities and pH modulation in Pikovskaya’s broth cultures. Enzymatic activities of acid and alkaline phosphatases revealed unique profiles for each isolate. PH27 and PH28 excelled in phosphate solubilization and medium acidification, while PH30 showed significant pH alteration despite lower phosphorus solubilization. The study makes several pivotal contributions to the field. Firstly, it adds to the existing body of knowledge by identifying and characterizing three unique halotolerant PSB isolates, thereby enriching our understanding of microbial diversity in saline environments. Secondly, it provides valuable insights into their phosphorus and zinc solubilizing capabilities, which affect nutrient cycling in soil ecosystems. Thirdly, the study explores the enzymatic activities of these isolates, laying the groundwork for future research in microbial enzymology. Lastly, the study examines the rate of phosphate solubilization and its corresponding impact on pH levels, offering targeted insights with broader environmental implications.','Phosphate solubilizing bacteria, halotolerant bacteria, phosphatase, phosphorous bioavailability','The study comprehensively examined halotolerant PSB isolates, PH27, PH28, and PH30, across multiple dimensions, which include phosphate solubilization, halotolerance, enzymatic activities, and molecular identification. The research biochemically, physiologically and molecularly characterized the isolates using various methodologies, from screening assays to 16S rRNA gene sequencing.\r\nThe isolates demonstrated distinct phosphate and zinc solubilization capabilities, with PH27 and PH28 showing superior phosphorus solubilization abilities. Halotolerance profiles were also elucidated, revealing a complex relationship between NaCl concentration and bacterial growth. Enzymatic assays further indicated unique acid and alkaline phosphatase activities among the isolates, highlighting their metabolic versatility.\r\nMolecular characterization identified the isolates as Enterobacter bugandensis (PH27), Psychrobacter faecalis (PH28), and Bacillus amyloliquefaciens (PH30), providing a taxonomic framework for future research. The study also found intriguing patterns in pH modulation and phosphorus solubilization, particularly with PH30, which exhibited significant medium acidification despite lower phosphorus solubilization efficiency.\r\nOverall, the study contributes to the existing knowledge on PSBs and opens up new avenues for future research. It lays a robust foundation for understanding the complex interplay between halotolerance, phosphorus solubilization, and enzymatic activities in PSBs, offering valuable insights into microbial contributions to nutrient cycling in saline environments.\r\n','-','Anurag Yadav, Rahulkumar Chauhan, Kavin Soni and Kusum Yadav (2023). Unveiling the Multifaceted Abilities of Halotolerant Phosphate Solubilizing Bacteria Isolated from the Kutch Desert Ecosystem. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 15(9): 476-484.'),(7451,'165','Impact of Spacing and Fertilizer Levels on Nutrient uptake and Soil Nutrient Status of Chia (Salvia hispanica L.) in eastern dry Zone of Karnataka','Nunavath Umilsingh, V. Venkatachalapathi, H.S. Latha, D.V. Naveen and Yerradoddi Sindhu Sree','Impact-of-Spacing-and-Fertilizer-Levels-on-Nutrient-uptake-and-Soil-Nutrient-Status-of-Chia-(Salvia-hispanica-L.)-in-eastern-dry-Zone-of-Karnataka-Nunavath-Umilsing-82.pdf','',1,'A field experiment was conducted during the Kharif-2019 at the research field of Agricultural Research station, Chintamani, Karnataka, to assess the effect of different spacing and fertilizer levels on nutrient uptake and soil nutrient status of chia (Salvia hispanica L.). The experiment consisted of four levels of spacing (45×15, 45×30, 60×15 and 60×30 cm) and three levels of fertilizer (40:20:20, 60:40:40 and 80:60:60 kg NPK ha-1) with 12 treatment combinations, which was laid out in Factorial Randomized Complete Block Design (FRCBD) replicated thrice. The results of different different spacing and fertilizers were showed that spacing (60×30 cm) and fertilizer level (80:60:60 kg NPK ha-1) had a significant effect on nutrient uptake, fertility status in soil and their values were statistically higher than all the other spacing and fertilizer levels. The findings of study reported that 60×30 cm spacing recorded significantly higher uptake of total nitrogen (114.25 kg ha-1), phosphorus (17.54 kg ha-1) and potassium (94.72 kg ha-1). On contrary, 45×15 cm spacing recorded higher available soil nitrogen (286.29 kg ha-1). Among different fertilizer levels the dosage of 80:60:60 kg NPK ha-1 recorded statistically higher total nitrogen, phosphorus and potassium uptake (104.43, 16.33 and 87.69 kg ha-1, respectively) and available soil phosphorus (62.26 kg ha-1) on contrary to that fertilizer level 40:20:20 kg NPK ha-1 obtained higher soil nitrogen (285.26 kg ha-1) compared to others. However, there was no significant effect was observed with treatment combination of spacing and fertilizers.','Chia, spacing, fertilizer, nitrogen, phosphorus and potassium','On findings of the above-summarized results from one-year experimentation, the following conclusions have been drawn that increased N, P and K uptake in seed and haulm and total uptake were recorded with 60 × 30 cm spacing over rest of the spacings and higher available nitrogen was recorded with 45 × 15 cm spacing as compared to other spacings. However, significantly higher N, P and K uptake was recorded with higher dose of fertilizer 80:60:60 kg NPK ha-1. On contrary the higher available nitrogen was recorded with the fertilizer level of 40:20:20 kg NPK ha-1. Findings indicate that nitrogen, phosphorus and potassium dynamics in the soil were influenced by spacing and fertilizer application. Most treatments resulted in a net loss of nitrogen, phosphorus and potassium from the soil, highlighting proper management practices are essential to optimize nutrient retention and ensure sustainable crop production.','-','Nunavath Umilsingh, V. Venkatachalapathi, H.S. Latha, D.V. Naveen and Yerradoddi Sindhu Sree (2023). Impact of Spacing and Fertilizer Levels on Nutrient uptake and Soil Nutrient Status of Chia (Salvia hispanica L.) in eastern dry Zone of Karnataka. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 15(9): 485-491.'),(7452,'165','Studies on Heterosis and Evaluation of Powdery Mildew Resistant hybrids in Chili','Umesh Babu B.S., B.V. Tembhurne, P.H. Kuchanur, Hasan Khan, D.S. Aswathanarayana and B. Kisan','Studies-on-Heterosis-and-Evaluation-of-Powdery-Mildew-Resistant-hybrids-in-Chili-BS-Umesh-Babu-83.pdf','',1,'A research was conducted at college of agriculture Raichur during Kharif and rabi 2019-22. To search for resistance source against powdery mildew disease and hestrosis for 40 crosses in chilli. Fourteen genotypes including ten lines and four testers of chilli were crossed to derive 40 F1 hybrids. The 40 crosses were screened against powdery mildew and evaluated for heterosis in yield and its contributing traits. The crosses JNA1 × Mattur Local, JNA1 × G4, JNA1 × GCV111, and JNA1 × Rajput Yellow, showed resistance against powdery mildew and the range of heterosis expressed by the hybrids over their respective mid parent varied from -23.89 (Sankeshwar × Rajput yellow) to 65.82 per cent (JNA1 × G4) with an overall mean of 5.75 per cent. Sixteen crosses recorded significant positive heterosis over mid parent. The range of heterosis expressed by the crosses over their respective better parent varied from -31.23 (B. dabbi × G4) to 59.70 (JNA1 × G4) with a mean of -3.27 per cent. Eight crosses recorded significant positive heterosis over better parent for the trait fruit yield per plant. Hybrid JNA1 × G4 (65.82) and JNA1 × GCV111 (32.70) showed highest positive significant heterosis over better parent for the trait fruit yield per plant. These results hold substantial promise, paving the way for the development of chili varieties that not only exhibit resistance to powdery mildew but also deliver enhanced yields. These advancements contribute significantly to the sustainability and resilience of chili farming systems, offering tangible benefits to chili growers and the broader agricultural industry.','Chilli, Powdery mildew, Resistance and heterosis','In present investigation, we have explored the efficacy of disease management through host plant resistance as the most economical and practical choice across various crops. Employing resistant cultivars within farming systems emerges as a straightforward, highly effective, and cost-efficient method for disease control. Beyond its economic advantages, this approach also contributes to the conservation of natural resources and significantly reduces the expenditure of time and energy compared to alternative disease management methods.\r\nWithin the scope of our study, we tested 40 chili crosses in field conditions, meticulously screening them for their resistance against powdery mildew. Among these crosses, four pairs, namely JNA1 × Mattur Local, JNA1 × G4, JNA1 × GCV111, and JNA1 × Rajput Yellow, demonstrated noteworthy resistance levels. These findings hold immense promise for future breeding programs aimed at developing robust, disease-resistant chili varieties. Moreover, considering both individual performance and heterosis, we identified two crosses of particular interest JNA1 × G4 and JNB1 × GCV111 showcasing superior traits related to yield along with highly resistance to powdery mildew disease in chilli. These two selected crosses hold the potential to drive forward chili breeding programs for enhanced productivity.\r\nThe study underscores the pivotal role of host plant resistance in disease management, highlighting its potential to revolutionize chili breeding programs. These results pave the way for the development of chili varieties that not only exhibit resistance to powdery mildew but also offer improved yields, thereby contributing to the sustainability and resilience of chili farming systems.\r\n','-','Umesh Babu B.S., B.V. Tembhurne, P.H. Kuchanur, Hasan Khan, D.S. Aswathanarayana and B. Kisan (2023). Studies on Heterosis and Evaluation of Powdery Mildew Resistant hybrids in Chili. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 15(9): 492-500.'),(7453,'148','Economic analysis of Cost, Returns and Profitability of Maize in Karnataka State','Gadigeppa Muramatti, S.N. Mishra, Abhiram Dash, B. Mohapatra and K.K. Sarangi ','Economic-analysis-of-Cost-Returns-and-Profitability-of-Maize-in-Karnataka-State-Gadigeppa-Muramatti-112.pdf','',1,'Maize (Zea mays) is one of the important cereal crops of the World and gaining lot of importance in animal feed and other industry uses. The present study aimed to calculate the costs and returns of maize in Karnataka. We evaluated profitability, net income, family labor income, farm business revenue, and the B:C ratio in this article by estimating the cost of cultivation using the cost concept (cost A1 A2, B1 B2, C1 C2, and C3). The absence of high-quality seeds was one of the main issues mentioned by the farmers. They believed that there were seeds of various qualities mixed together, which causes poor germination and reduced yields. The study comes to the conclusion that maize growers in the study area will see higher net returns if they make the best use of the resources at their disposal and make the required efforts to fix the issues found in the production of maize. The cost of cultivation of maize (total cost C2) was Rs. 48312.44 per hectare, variable cost was Rs. 32319.16/ hectare and fixed cost was Rs. 13228.79/ hectare. The per hectare gross income was Rs. 61180 and net return Rs. 15631.84 with B: C ratio of 1:1.34 which showed the profitable of crop. On the basis of finding of study, it is recommended that the study area getting profit and study will suggest to go for maize cultivation.','Cost and return, profitability, Maize, estimation, Karnataka, net income and labor','Among total cost of cultivation variable cost accounted around 70 per cent and fixed cost accounted 30 per cent. Human labor, animal labor and machine labor accounted 24 per cent, 7.9 per cent and 13.5 per cent respectively. Cost incurred on manures and fertilizers was 11.96 per cent. And interest on working capital accounted 1.74 per cent. Rental Value of Owned Land and Interest on Fixed Capital are 24.36 per cent and 4. 26 per cent respectively. Gross returns by the sale of main produce and by- product in Karnataka was estimated to be Rs.61, 180 and Rs. 6000 respectively. And net return was Rs. 15631.84. finally, the ratio of benefits to costs was calculated and found to be 1.34. Consequently, it might be concluded that maize is a productive crop.','-','Gadigeppa Muramatti, S.N. Mishra, Abhiram Dash, B. Mohapatra and K.K. Sarangi (2023). Economic analysis of Cost, Returns and Profitability of Maize in Karnataka State. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 15(1): 694-697.'),(7454,'165','Effect of integrated Nutrient Management on Leaf and Soil Nutrient Status of Papaya (Carica papaya L.) cv. Pusa Delicious under Varanasi Region of Uttar Pradesh','Pawan Kumar Anand, Binod Kumar Singh and Neeharika Kanth','Effect-of-integrated-Nutrient-Management-on-Leaf-and-Soil-Nutrient-Status-of-Papaya-(Carica-papaya-L.)-cv.-Pusa-Delicious-under-Varanasi-Region-of-Uttar-Pradesh-Pawan-Kumar-Anand-84.pdf','',1,'Papaya (Carica papaya L.) is one of the most important and delicious fruit, but it is a heavy feeder of nutrients and requires judicious supplies of nutrients at frequent intervals for better growth and fruiting. Growers applied heavy dose of fertilizers without knowing the soil status, that leads to deterioration in the soil physical and chemical composition and also causes environmental pollution. Hence, it is imperative to shift from conventional nutrient management systems to integrated nutrient management systems for sustainable production as well as for maintaining the soil health. The present study underlying the principal of INM is to maintain and improve soil fertility for sustaining the crop use of all possible sources of nutrient and their scientific management for optimum growth, yield, and quality of different crops in specific agro-ecological conditions. The INM helps restoring and sustain soil fertility along with crop productivity. Further, it also helps checking the emerging deficiency of nutrients other than N, P, K and favorably affects the physical, chemical, and biological environment of the soil.','Nutrients, fertilizers, soil physical, pollution, INM, agro-ecological','In case of leaf nutrient content, significantly higher nutrient content were noted under the application of (T13) FYM + NPK (100%) + Azotobacter + PSB except or phosphorous content which was higher under (T14) FYM + NPK (100%) + Azospirillum + PSB during both years. Available nutrient status of soil, significantly higher values of available nutrients were reported under (T14) FYM + NPK (100%) + Azospirillum + PSB during the period of research. Overall, the appraisal study shows that the use of integrated nutrient management increases soil fertility, and improves soil health. If these treatments are continued for a few years, then minimise the use of inorganic fertilizers so farmers get more benefits.','-','Pawan Kumar Anand, Binod Kumar Singh and Neeharika Kanth (2023). Effect of integrated Nutrient Management on Leaf and Soil Nutrient Status of Papaya (Carica papaya L.) cv. Pusa Delicious under Varanasi Region of Uttar Pradesh. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 15(9): 501-504.'),(7455,'33','Organized Retailing sector in India - An Empirical Study using Factor Analysis','Suteekshan Dwivedi','Organized Retailing sector in India An Empirical Study using Factor Analysis Suteekshan Dwivedi 45.pdf','',1,' The retail sector and its environment have experienced radical changes in the last decade. Most of the changes are due to changing demographics, and changes in the retail sector including the addition of This is focusing on the relative importance of the various products purchased at organized retail outlets and the choice of format, choice for Private Label brand and the acceptance level as well. The research paper is focusing on the descriptive variables viz., consumer perception and consumer loyalty and the process of estimating variables on brands. Retailing has emerged as one of the vibrant sectors globally. The retail landscape in India is shifting rapidly due to the entry of many foreign and domestic players. The changing consumer behaviour has led to retail transformation of this magnitude. The country is witnessing a paradigm shift in the pattern of retailing from traditional to the most vibrant organized sectors in almost all categories of retails business in Indian cities.','Consumer Behaviour, Retailing, Organized Retail, Marketing, Empirical, traditional.','With market liberalization, especially in retail sector, the global retailing is witnessing phenomenal changes. The focus has shifted from traditional retailing to organized retailing with the entry of number of players globally. With increased variety of retail formats and inclusion of many other marketing mix strategies understanding the best mix that influences consumer demand is a challenge. This paper is an attempt to explore Consumer Behaviour towards marketing mix in organized retain with specific reference to Mangalore city. Of the total sample used in the study, majority were females, graduates, salaried employees belonging to the age group of 25 to 45 years. The study reveals that Marketing Mix Parameters such as People, Physical Evidence, Price, Process and Promotion have a very significant impact on consumer behaviour in Organized Retail, whereas Place and Product parameters show a slightly lower level of significance. The study concludes that all the marketing mix parameters play a significant role in consumer behaviour but Promotional Schemes, Pricing and Process are the prominent ones. To withstand the competition the retail stores must know the reasons behind the choice of retail stores and must provide those facilities to attract the customers. Apart from these, the purpose of visiting the retail stores varies according to age, gender and educational qualification and that has to be considered to gain the market share. The success of retail sector reveals the growth of the organized retail stores. The rapidly increasing the expectation of the customer in different manner. \r\nEveryone knows that reliability of customers is the reflection of trust. Normally if we want to get the loyalty of the customers, we have to fulfill the needs, wants, demand and expectations of the customers. The retail business also has to follow the same sense of service to obtain the reliability of the customers. The organized retail stores have need to be updated their products and services in the nature manner and also take the necessary steps to remove the outdated products. The penetration pricing strategy can be considered to attract the urban customer as well as rural customer also. If the service is followed in the right manner customer may tend to stay on the department stores themselves.','[1]. Andotra, N., & Pooja (2009). Retail perspective in sub-urban markets: an empirical validation of consumer \r\ncognitive dissonance. International Journal of Innovation and Sustainable Development, 4(4), 276-293.\r\n[2]. Duff, M. (2007). Niche marketing of cosmetics. DSN Retailing today, 38, 29-35.\r\n[3]. Finlay, L. (2007). Grocery shopping in the UK; A study on consumers. \r\n[4]. Gopinath, R. (2011). A study on Men’s perception in buying decisions on branded shirts in Tiruchirappalli District. \r\nAsian Journal of Management Research, 1(2), 600-617.\r\n[5]. Lau, M. M., Chang, M. T., Moon, K. L., & Liu, W. S. (2006). The brand loyalty of sportswear in Hong \r\nKong. Journal of Textile and Apparel, Technology and Management, 5(1).\r\n[6]. Lovelock, C. H. (2010). Service marketing, (4th ed), New Jersey: Prentice Hall.\r\n[7]. Srivastava (2012). Marketing strategies adopted by retailers in retail store: a case study of max lifestyle storephoenix mall Lucknow. International journal of research in finance and marketing, 142-158.\r\n[8]. Susmit (2011). A critical study of consumer preferences towards organized in Jaipur. International journal of \r\nresearch in commerce and management, 234-246.\r\n[9]. Ailawadi, K. L., Neslin, S.A. and Gedenk, K. (2001). Pursuing the value-conscious consumer: store brands vs \r\nnational brand promotions. Journal of Marketing, 65(1), pp 71-89.\r\n[10]. Ajzen, I. (1989). Attitude structure and behavior”, in A.R. Pratkanis, S.J. Breckler, and A.G. Greenwalds (Eds.), \r\nAttitude Structure and Function, Hillsdale, NJ: Lawrence Erlbaum, pp 241-274.\r\n[11]. Bartlett’s Test of Sphericity and Kaiser Measure Olkin Measure in ‘Malhotra, Naresh K.’ (2004). Marketing \r\nResearch- an applied orientation, fourth edition, pp.558-583, Pearson Education.\r\n[12]. Beatty, S. E. and Ferrel, E. M. (1998). “Impulse buying: Modeling its precursors. Journal of Retailing, 74(2), \r\npp 169-191.\r\n[13]. Childers, T. L., Carr, C. L., Peck, J., & Carson, S. (2001). Hedonic and utilitarian motivations for online retail \r\nshopping behavior. Journal of Retailing, 77(4), pp 511-535.',' '),(7456,'33','Organized Retailing sector in India - An Empirical Study using Factor Analysis','Suteekshan Dwivedi)','Organized Retailing sector in India An Empirical Study using Factor Analysis Suteekshan Dwivedi 45.pdf','',4,' The retail sector and its environment have experienced radical changes in the last decade. Most of the changes are due to changing demographics, and changes in the retail sector including the addition of This is focusing on the relative importance of the various products purchased at organized retail outlets and the choice of format, choice for Private Label brand and the acceptance level as well. The research paper is focusing on the descriptive variables viz., consumer perception and consumer loyalty and the process of estimating variables on brands. Retailing has emerged as one of the vibrant sectors globally. The retail landscape in India is shifting rapidly due to the entry of many foreign and domestic players. The changing consumer behaviour has led to retail transformation of this magnitude. The country is witnessing a paradigm shift in the pattern of retailing from traditional to the most vibrant organized sectors in almost all categories of retails business in Indian cities.','Consumer Behaviour, Retailing, Organized Retail, Marketing, Empirical, traditional.','With market liberalization, especially in retail sector, the global retailing is witnessing phenomenal changes. The focus has shifted from traditional retailing to organized retailing with the entry of number of players globally. With increased variety of retail formats and inclusion of many other marketing mix strategies understanding the best mix that influences consumer demand is a challenge. This paper is an attempt to explore Consumer Behaviour towards marketing mix in organized retain with specific reference to Mangalore city. Of the total sample used in the study, majority were females, graduates, salaried employees belonging to the age group of 25 to 45 years. The study reveals that Marketing Mix Parameters such as People, Physical Evidence, Price, Process and Promotion have a very significant impact on consumer behaviour in Organized Retail, whereas Place and Product parameters show a slightly lower level of significance. The study concludes that all the marketing mix parameters play a significant role in consumer behaviour but Promotional Schemes, Pricing and Process are the prominent ones. To withstand the competition the retail stores must know the reasons behind the choice of retail stores and must provide those facilities to attract the customers. Apart from these, the purpose of visiting the retail stores varies according to age, gender and educational qualification and that has to be considered to gain the market share. The success of retail sector reveals the growth of the organized retail stores. The rapidly increasing the expectation of the customer in different manner. \r\nEveryone knows that reliability of customers is the reflection of trust. Normally if we want to get the loyalty of the customers, we have to fulfill the needs, wants, demand and expectations of the customers. The retail business also has to follow the same sense of service to obtain the reliability of the customers. The organized retail stores have need to be updated their products and services in the nature manner and also take the necessary steps to remove the outdated products. The penetration pricing strategy can be considered to attract the urban customer as well as rural customer also. If the service is followed in the right manner customer may tend to stay on the department stores themselves.','[1]. Andotra, N., & Pooja (2009). Retail perspective in sub-urban markets: an empirical validation of consumer \r\ncognitive dissonance. International Journal of Innovation and Sustainable Development, 4(4), 276-293.\r\n[2]. Duff, M. (2007). Niche marketing of cosmetics. DSN Retailing today, 38, 29-35.\r\n[3]. Finlay, L. (2007). Grocery shopping in the UK; A study on consumers. \r\n[4]. Gopinath, R. (2011). A study on Men’s perception in buying decisions on branded shirts in Tiruchirappalli District. \r\nAsian Journal of Management Research, 1(2), 600-617.\r\n[5]. Lau, M. M., Chang, M. T., Moon, K. L., & Liu, W. S. (2006). The brand loyalty of sportswear in Hong \r\nKong. Journal of Textile and Apparel, Technology and Management, 5(1).\r\n[6]. Lovelock, C. H. (2010). Service marketing, (4th ed), New Jersey: Prentice Hall.\r\n[7]. Srivastava (2012). Marketing strategies adopted by retailers in retail store: a case study of max lifestyle storephoenix mall Lucknow. International journal of research in finance and marketing, 142-158.\r\n[8]. Susmit (2011). A critical study of consumer preferences towards organized in Jaipur. International journal of \r\nresearch in commerce and management, 234-246.\r\n[9]. Ailawadi, K. L., Neslin, S.A. and Gedenk, K. (2001). Pursuing the value-conscious consumer: store brands vs \r\nnational brand promotions. Journal of Marketing, 65(1), pp 71-89.\r\n[10]. Ajzen, I. (1989). Attitude structure and behavior”, in A.R. Pratkanis, S.J. Breckler, and A.G. Greenwalds (Eds.), \r\nAttitude Structure and Function, Hillsdale, NJ: Lawrence Erlbaum, pp 241-274.\r\n[11]. Bartlett’s Test of Sphericity and Kaiser Measure Olkin Measure in ‘Malhotra, Naresh K.’ (2004). Marketing \r\nResearch- an applied orientation, fourth edition, pp.558-583, Pearson Education.\r\n[12]. Beatty, S. E. and Ferrel, E. M. (1998). “Impulse buying: Modeling its precursors. Journal of Retailing, 74(2), \r\npp 169-191.\r\n[13]. Childers, T. L., Carr, C. L., Peck, J., & Carson, S. (2001). Hedonic and utilitarian motivations for online retail \r\nshopping behavior. Journal of Retailing, 77(4), pp 511-535.',' '),(7457,'165','Growth and Yield of Blackgram (Vigna mungo L.) as influenced by Sowing Windows and varieties in North Coastal Zone of Andhra Pradesh','B. Tejaswini, D. Sekhar, P. Amarajyothi and P. Madhu Vani ','Growth-and-Yield-of-Blackgram-(Vigna-mungo-L.)-as-influenced-by-Sowing-Windows-and-varieties-in-North-Coastal-Zone-of-Andhra-Pradesh-B-Tejaswini-85.pdf','',1,'A field experiment was carried out at Agricultural Research Station, Ragolu, Srikakulam district, Andhra Pradesh during the period from November 2022 to March 2023 to assess the performance of blackgram (Vigna mungo L.) varieties under different sowing windows in rice-based cropping system in North Coastal Zone of Andhra Pradesh. Blackgram production in the North Coastal Zone of Andhra Pradesh is low due to delayed sowings and the late-sown crop faces terminal stress which ultimately resulting in poor yields. So, the following experiment has been taken up to standardize the optimum date of sowing and to assess high yielding variety for this zone. The experiment was laid out in split plot design with three replications. The results showed that, November second fortnight recorded significantly taller plants (27.7 cm, 46.6 cm and 47.2 cm) and dry matter accumulation (353 kg ha-1, 1985 kg ha-1 and 2867 kg ha-1) at 30, 60 DAS and at harvest respectively. Yield attributes like number of pods plant-1 (23.7), pod length (5.4 cm), test weight (42.7 g) and seed yield (1270 kg ha-1) were significantly influenced by the sowing windows and found to be significantly highest in November second fortnight. With regard to varieties, LBG 752 recorded significantly tallest plants (26.2 cm, 46.6 cm and 47.2 cm) and maximum dry matter accumulation (295 kg ha-1, 1730 kg ha-1 and 2482 kg ha-1) at 30, 60 DAS and at harvest, respectively, which was statistically on par with LBG 787. The yield attributing characters like number of pods plant-1 (22.0), pod length (5.2 cm), test weight (42.7g) and seed yield (1244 kg ha-1) were found significantly highest in the variety TBG104. Overall, the results showed that sowing of TBG104 variety in November second fortnight seems to be the appropriate for getting higher seed yield in rice based cropping system of North Coastal Zone of Andhra Pradesh.','Blackgram, Growth, Sowing windows, Varieties, Yield attributes and Yield','From the above study, it can be concluded that, November second fortnight is the optimum sowing window for blackgram under rice based cropping system for North Coastal Zone of Andhra Pradesh. The variety TBG 104 came out to be high yielder followed by GBG 1, LBG 884, LBG 787 and LBG 752 in rice based cropping system.','-','B. Tejaswini, D. Sekhar, P. Amarajyothi and P. Madhu Vani (2023). Growth and Yield of Blackgram (Vigna mungo L.) as influenced by Sowing Windows and varieties in North Coastal Zone of Andhra Pradesh. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 15(9): 505-510.'),(7458,'148','Application of Micronucleus Assay for Assessment of Profenofos Genotoxicity and its Mitigation through Nyctanthes arbortristis Leaf Extract in Mice (Mus musculus)','Rina Kumari and Dharmshila Kumari ','Application-of-Micronucleus-Assay-for-Assessment-of-Profenofos-Genotoxicity-and-its-Mitigation-through-Nyctanthes-Arbortristis-Leaf-Extract-in-Mice-(Mus-Musculus)-Rina-Kumari-113.pdf','',1,'The micronucleus test is always included in many genotoxic test guidelines for long time in many classes of chemicals, e.g., pharmaceutical chemicals, agricultural chemicals, food additives. The most commonly used agrochemical profenofos has adverse effect among human population. The dependence of people on the pesticides have may effect various organ system like respiratory system, reproductive system, etc. and also leading to genetic toxicity. In present work the mitigative effect of Nyctanthes arbortristis leaves were evaluated against genotoxic damage induced by Profenofos on PCEs and NCEs in mice bone marrow cells using Micronucleus test, the result shows that incidence of Mn formation in Profenofos treated group were significantly higher than the control .While concurrent treatment with Nyctanthes arbortristis leaves extract with Profenofos shows significantly lower than Profenofos treated group and almost equivalent upto the control level.','Profenofos, Nyctanthes arbortristis, Micronucleus, Bone Marrow, Polychromatic erythrocytes, Normochromatic erythrocytes','From above discussion it is conduced that Profenofos is a potent genotoxic agent which induced micronuclei formation and Nyctanthes arbortristis leaves can mitigate its toxicity due to presence of antioxidant richness. Therefore, we must supplement our diet with antioxidants rich herbs. So that toxicity of various pesticides or chemicals can be minimized.','-','Rina Kumari and Dharmshila Kumari (2023). Application of Micronucleus Assay for Assessment of Profenofos Genotoxicity and its Mitigation through Nyctanthes arbortristis Leaf Extract in Mice (Mus musculus). Biological Forum – An International Journal, 15(1): 698-700.'),(7459,'165','Exploring E-Learning Resource Utilization among Students in Banaras Hindu University: A Usage Pattern Analysis','Sukhchain Singh, Prashish Singh, Priyanka Roy, Gyan Shukla and Akanchha Kumari ','Exploring-E-Learning-Resource-Utilization-among-Students-in-Banaras-Hindu-University-A-Usage-Pattern-Analysis-Sukhchain-Singh-86.pdf','',1,'The COVID-19 pandemic necessitated a transformation in teaching and learning methods, leading to the widespread adoption of E-learning. A study was conducted from February to October 2021, employing a structured questionnaire to assess the usage pattern of E-learning resources among students from various BHU Institutes. The survey included 127 respondents, with representation from the Institute of Agricultural Sciences, Indian Institute of Technology, Institute of Medical Sciences, Institute of Management Studies, Institute of Sciences, and Institute of Environment and Sustainable Development. By employing direct questioning, information on the respondents\' usage pattern of E-learning resources was obtained and categorized as either \"Used\" or \"Not used.\" The study revealed that 95% of the respondents from IIT accessed the internet through tablets and computers/laptops, while 87.50% of the respondents from the Institute of Management Studies did the same. Furthermore, the study identified the primary purpose of internet usage among the respondents. Majority of respondents (96.06%) using the internet primarily for sending emails. It was found that a significant percentage of respondents from IIT and the IMS had access to the internet through tablets and computers/laptops. Moreover, the study highlighted that the majority of the respondents relied on the internet mainly for sending emails. Ensuring the willingness and availability of respondents to participate in the survey was a logistical challenge. This study sheds light on the usage patterns of E-learning resources among students in various institutes at Banaras Hindu University, providing valuable insights into how students utilize the internet for different purposes, including educational activities. Furthermore, the study contributes to the broader discourse on the role of technology in education and the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic on learning practices, highlighting the significance of E-learning as a critical tool in times of crisis and beyond.','Covid-19, e-learning, Internet, e-mail and computer','The findings of this study shed light on the accessibility of the internet and the diverse purposes for which students utilize it. The prevalence of mobile internet access, along with the adoption of various online activities, reflects the digital transformation in education and society at large. Understanding these usage patterns is essential for educational institutions and policymakers to better cater to the needs of students and support their learning experiences. Further research could delve into the effectiveness of E-learning resources and their impact on student outcomes, ultimately contributing to the ongoing evolution of education in the digital age.','-','Sukhchain Singh, Prashish Singh, Priyanka Roy, Gyan Shukla and Akanchha Kumari (2023). Exploring E-Learning Resource Utilization among Students in Banaras Hindu University: A Usage Pattern Analysis. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 15(9): 511-515.'),(7460,'165','Influence of Silver Nanoparticle (AgNP), Sodium Nitroprusside (SNP) and 8-Hydroxy quinoline citrate (8-HQC) on vase Life of Chrysanthemum (Chrysanthemum morifolium) cv. ‘White Star’','Satvaan Singh, Sunil Malik, Mukesh Kumar, Satendra Kumar, Gaurav Kumar Ahirwar, Amit Kumar and Vishal Srivastava','Influence-of-Silver-Nanoparticle-(AgNP)-Sodium-Nitroprusside-(SNP)-and-8-Hydroxy-quinoline-citrate-(8-HQC)-on-vase-Life-of-Chrysanthemum-(Chrysanthemum-morifolium)-cv.-White-Star-Satvaan-Singh-87.pdf','',1,'Chrysanthemum is an important commercial cut flower and is vastly traded cut flower for its high demand in the global floriculture business. Among the different vase solution used to improve vase life of chrysanthemum, Silver nanoparticle (AgNP), Sodium nitroprusside (SNP) and 8-hydroxy quinoline citrate (8-HQC) has emerged as potent vase solution that can delay the senescence and improve the vase life of cut Chrysanthemum. The challenges of the study Chrysanthemum spike were harvested at flower bud stage and the temperature was approximately 180C, the uniform flowers were cut and immediately stood upright into buckets partially filled with de-ionized water. The present study was conducted to derive the potential nature of Silver nanoparticle (AgNP), Sodium nitroprusside (SNP) and 8-hydroxy quinoline citrate (8-HQC) in improving the vase life of Chrysanthemum cv. ‘White Star’. The overall best treatment for different parameters for improving the vase life of chrysanthemum during the consecutive seasons (2021-2022 & 2022-2023) were recorded under the treatment T4 (AgNP 20µl) followed by the treatment T14 (8-HQC 200ppm) and T8 (SNP 15ppm) while vase solution with T0 Control (de-ionized water) did not improve the different vase life parameters in Chrysanthemum.','Chrysanthemum, Silver nanoparticle, 8-HQC, Sodium nitroprusside and Vase life','Results of the present study suggest the overall best treatment for different parameters for improving the vase life of chrysanthemum during the consecutive seasons (2021-2022 & 2022-2023) were recorded under the treatment T4 (AgNP 20µl) followed by the treatment T14 (8-HQC 200ppm) and T8 (SNP 15ppm) while, vase solution with T0 Control (de-ionized water) did not improve the different vase life parameters in Chrysanthemum. The various vase solutions significantly improved the different post harvest parameters in Chrysanthemum viz., Fresh weight (g) change at different interval (days), days to bud opening (%), solution uptake by plant at different duration in (days) and days of determination of Chlorophyll (Chl.a and Chl.b) in Chrysanthemum however, minimum response was noted under Control. Overall, the current investigation was carried out and resulted in the successful development of a complete mechanism in improving the vase life of Chrysanthemum ‘White Star’.','-','Satvaan Singh, Sunil Malik, Mukesh Kumar, Satendra Kumar, Gaurav Kumar Ahirwar, Amit Kumar and Vishal Srivastava (2023). Influence of Silver Nanoparticle (AgNP), Sodium Nitroprusside (SNP) and 8-Hydroxy quinoline citrate (8-HQC) on vase Life of Chrysanthemum (Chrysanthemum morifolium) cv. ‘White Star’. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 15(9): 516-522.'),(7461,'165','Virulence Diversity and Cas gene Cluster Analysis in Xanthomonas oryzae pv. oryzae Population of India\r\n','Namburi Karunakar Reddy, M.K. Prasanna Kumar and Swathi S. Patil ','Virulence-Diversity-and-Cas-gene-Cluster-Analysis-in-Xanthomonas-oryzae-pv.-oryzae-Population-of-India-MK-Prasanna-Kumar-88.pdf','',1,' Exopolysaccharide (EPS) and Xanthomonadin pigment quantification in 39 Xanthomonas oryzae pv. oryzae (Xoo) isolates are investigated in this work, as well as any implications for pathogenicity. With levels ranging from 29 mg to 92 mg, EPS generation, which is essential for the development of the disease and host colonisation, differed among isolates. Longer lesion lengths were connected with certain high EPS producers but not with others, demonstrating the multiple impacts on pathogenicity. When Xanthomonadin pigments were quantified, different levels were found for different isolates, although their combined influence on lesion duration varied. Variations in the presence of Cas genes were discovered through the analysis of CRISPR-Cas gene clusters, with some isolates, KPXoo5, KPXoo15, KPXoo26 and KPXoo32 having the entire set and others lacking specific cas genes. These results highlight the genetic variation of Xoo strains and highlight the need for more research on the functional effects of Cas gene variants. Overall, this study advances our knowledge of Xoo pathogenicity and may have implications for gene-editing studies and crop protection.\r\n','Xanthomonas oryzae pv. oryzae, Exopolysaccharide, CRISPR-Cas','The production of exopolysaccharide (EPS) and quantification of Xanthomonadin pigments were assessed to understand their roles in pathogenicity. The results showed that EPS production levels varied among isolates, potentially influencing lesion development. Xoo isolates with higher EPS production tended to have longer lesions, suggesting a correlation between EPS production and virulence. Regarding the CRISPR-Cas immune system, it was shown that certain Xoo isolates had a comprehensive complement of cas genes, indicating the presence of an operational and effective defence mechanism against exogenous genetic elements. Nevertheless, it is noteworthy that two isolates exhibited the absence of the Cas4 gene, a crucial component in spacer acquisition and adaptation. This genetic variation may affect their capacity to counteract novel challenges effectively.','-','Namburi Karunakar Reddy, M.K. Prasanna Kumar and Swathi S. Patil (2023). Virulence Diversity and Cas gene Cluster Analysis in Xanthomonas oryzae pv. oryzae Population of India. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 15(9): 523-527.'),(7462,'165','Genetic variability Studies in Rice (Oryza sativa L.) varieties for Three Seasons under Saline conditions of Annamalai Nagar, an East Coast Region of Tamil Nadu','S.R. Sruthi, Laleeth Kumar N., Y. Anbuselvam, J.L. Joshi and Johnny Subakar Ivin ','Genetic-variability-Studies-in-Rice-(Oryza-sativa-L.)-varieties-for-Three-Seasons-under-Saline-conditions-of-Annamalai-Nagar,-an-East-Coast-Region-of-Tamil-Nadu-S.R.-Sruthi-89.pdf','',1,'The current study was conducted on 50 rice genotypes to evaluate the mean performance and genetic variability of various biometrical traits viz., fifty percent flowering, plant height, panicle length, number of tillers per panicle, number of productive tillers per plant, number of grains per panicle, 100 grain weight with grain yield per plant for three seasons under saline environment. Vandana disclosed significant mean values for productive tillers, grains per panicle and grain yield per plant while CTH-1 exhibited high per se performance for number of tillers per plant, number of productive tillers per plant, number of grains per panicle and grain yield per plant in pooled over environment. The consistent performance of CTH-1 makes it suitable for breeding programs to improve grain yield under saline conditions. Understanding the roles of genetic variability and heritable components are critical for progressive breeding program. The trait days to fifty percent flowering exhibited low PCV and GCV disclosing the presence of low level of variability while the traits viz., total number of tillers per plant, number of grains per panicle and grain yield per plant laid out moderate PCV and GCV revealing the existence of moderate level of variability in all the three seasons. The traits such as total number of tillers per plant, number of productive tillers per plant and panicle length demonstrated high heritability and genetic advance in all the three seasons ','Variability, Rice, Heritability, Genetic advance, Phenotypic coefficient of variation, Genotypic coefficient of variation','Due to the consistent per se performance of CTH-1 for number of tillers per plant, number of productive tillers per plant, number of grains per panicle and grain yield per plant in pooled over environment, it could be concluded that CTH-1 is suitable for breeding programs to improve grain yield under saline conditions. The traits viz., total number of tillers per plant, number of grains per panicle and grain yield per plant laid out moderate PCV and GCV revealing the existence of moderate level of variability in all the three seasons. The traits such as total number of tillers per plant, number of productive tillers per plant and panicle length demonstrated high heritability and genetic advance in all the three seasons which proved that selection of such traits would be effective as heritability was due to additive gene effects.','-','S.R. Sruthi, Laleeth Kumar N., Y. Anbuselvam, J.L. Joshi and Johnny Subakar Ivin (2023). Genetic variability Studies in Rice (Oryza sativa L.) varieties for Three Seasons under Saline conditions of Annamalai Nagar, an East Coast Region of Tamil Nadu. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 15(9): 528-535.'),(7463,'165','Effect of Foliar Application of Micro Nutrients on Yield and Yield Attributes of Sesame (Sesamum indicum L.) under drought Stress','A. Ramya, M. Ravi Babu, A.B.M Sirisha and S. Ratna Kumari','Effect-of-Foliar-Application-of-Micro-Nutrients-on-Yield-and-Yield-Attributes-of-Sesame-(Sesamum-indicum-L.)-under-drought-Stress-A-Ramy-90.pdf','',1,'A field experiment was conducted during rabi season 2023, at Agricultural College, Bapatla to study the effect of micro nutrients as foliar spray, on yield and yield attributes of sesame crop under drought stress. The field experiment was laid out in a Split Plot design with three replications. There are two main treatments i.e., no stress (M1- irrigation is given as per irrigation schedule), and moisture stress at flowering and capsule formation stages i.e., 35-60 DAS (M2) and eight sub treatments viz., no application of micro nutrients (control - S1), foliar application of ZnSO4 @3000 ppm (S2), H3BO3 @2000ppm (S3), NiCl2 @5 ppm (S4), FeSO4 @3 ppm (S5), Na2MoO4 @0.5 ppm (S6), ZnSO4 @3000 ppm+H3BO3 @2000ppm (S7) and ZnSO4 @3000ppm+H3BO3 @2000ppm+NiCl2 @5 ppm+FeSO4 @3 ppm+Na2MoO4 @0.5ppm (S8) at 50 DAS. All treatments recorded significantly higher yield and yield components over control. Among all treatments, S8 recorded significantly higher yield and yield components compared to other treatments.','Sesame, foliar application, yield and yield attributes and drought','In the present study, the effect of foliar application of micro nutrients were used to study the yield and yield attributes of sesame crop. Among the treatments foliar application of consortia i.e., ZnSO4 @3000ppm +H3BO3 @2000ppm +NiCl2 @5 ppm+ FeSO4 @3 ppm+ Na2MoO4 @0.5ppm and ZnSO4 @3000ppm +H3BO3 @2000ppm showed better performance and improve the yield of sesame under water stress conditions during rabi season, 2022-23.','-','A. Ramya, M. Ravi Babu, A.B.M Sirisha and S. Ratna Kumari (2023). Effect of Foliar Application of Micro Nutrients on Yield and Yield Attributes of Sesame (Sesamum indicum L.) under drought Stress. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 15(9): 536-541.'),(7464,'165','Interaction of varieties, Planting Dates, Growth Regulators on the Yield and Quality of Dolichos Bean (Lablab purpureus L.) under Shade Net instances','E. Padma, K. Uma Jyothi, G. Ramanandam, P. Subbaramamma and K. Umakrishna','Interaction-of-varieties,-Planting-Dates,-Growth-Regulators-on-the-Yield-and-Quality-of-Dolichos-Bean-(Lablab-purpureus-L.)-under-Shade-Net-instances-E-Padma-91.pdf','',1,'Currently being conducted is a study with the “Interaction of varieties, planting dates, growth regulators on the yield and quality of Dolichos Bean (Lablab purpureus L.) under shade net instances” was carried out during summer at Horticultural Research Station, Ambajipeta, East Godavari District of Andhra Pradesh. A Factorial Randomised Block Design (FRBD) with 36 alternative treatment combinations that were each replicated three times in an open field was used to design the experiment. Four distinct varieties, including Arka Jay, ArkaAmog, ArkaSambhram, and ArkaSowmya, were used in the experiment. The sowing dates were December 15, January 1, and January 15, and the growth regulators used were NAA 25 ppm, Triacontanol 2 ppm, and control. The yield and quality metrics were collected, and the data were statistically analysed using ANOVA. Highest pod yield (237.72 g) was recorded in ArkaSowmya (V4) followed by ArkaSambhram (V3) (216.65). Arka Jay (V1) recorded the lowest pod yield of 172.83 g. Dates of sowing also showed significant influence on pod yield per plant. Highest pod yield was recorded in January 1st sowing (S1) (232.68 g), followed by January 15th sowing (S3) (194.83 g). Highest pod yield was recorded in Triacontanol 2 ppm (G2) (226.30 g), followed by NAA 25 ppm (G1) (208.75 g) and without spray (control) (G3) (186.26 g). The highest shelling per cent of fresh pod (35.63) was noticed in Arka Jay (V1) and it was on par with ArkaSambhram (V3) (34.16 %). The highest shelling per cent of fresh pod was observed in January 1st sown crop (S2) (35.18 %), followed by December 15th sown crop (S1) (34.58 %). Highest shelling per cent for fresh pod was recorded in Triacontanol 2 ppm (G2) (36.44), followed by NAA 25 ppm spray (34.66). Growth regulators showed significant effect on protein content. The field bean crop sprayed with NAA 25 ppm foliar spray recorded the highest protein of 15.35 per cent followed by Triacontanol 2 ppm foliar spray(14.42%). Highest fibre content (33.69 %) was recorded in NAA 25 ppm spray (G1) and it was on par with Triacontanol 2 ppm (G2) (33.56 %). With a pod yield of 293.90 g, ArkaSowmya, which was planted on January 1st with Triacontanol 2 ppm spray (V4S2G2), had the highest yield.','Dolichos bean, Dates of sowing, NAA, Triacontanol, Shade net','Arka Sowmya which was planted on January 1st with Triacontanol 2 ppm spray (V4S2G2), had the highest yield under shade net.','-','E. Padma, K. Uma Jyothi, G. Ramanandam, P. Subbaramamma and K. Umakrishna (2023). Interaction of varieties, Planting Dates, Growth Regulators on the Yield and Quality of Dolichos Bean (Lablab purpureus L.) under Shade Net instances. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 15(9): 542-546.'),(7465,'165','Quantification and Role of Insect Pollinators in Enhancing Productivity in Cucumber','Parveena Bano, Rizwana Khursheed, Humira Mushtaq, Sajad A. Ganie, M.A. Paray, S.S. Pathania, Asma Sherwani and Uzma Arifie','Quantification-and-Role-of-Insect-Pollinators-in-Enhancing-Productivity-in-Cucumber-Humira-Mushtaq-92.pdf','',1,'Pollination is a critical aspect in cucumber production, since each cucumber flower is open only for a day. Generally two approaches quantify pollination viz., the direct estimate of pollinators’ performance in terms of its behaviour and/or pollen deposition on stigmas, whilst the second indirectly estimates pollinators’ contribution to yield, usually measured as seed set or fruit weight, both of which contribute to overall production of the crop. Six insect pollinators belonging to the two orders viz., Hymenoptera and Diptera were found visiting the cucumber flowers during the study conducted in 2021-2022. The insect pollinators include Apis mellifera, A. cerana, Xylocopa spp, Bumble bees and Syrphids. The mean foraging rate was maximum in Xylocopa spp. (8.72) followed by Halictidae (7.65), Bumble bee and Syrphids (7.27), Apis cerana (5.02) and Apis mellifera (4.75). The mean foraging speed was found maximum in Apis mellifera (8.82), followed by A. cerana (8.40), Bumble bee (8.32), Syrphids (7.15), Halictidae (4.40) and Xylocopa (4.37). Among all the attractants treatments evaluated to insect pollinators, Geranoil had maximum effect on quantitative as well as qualitative parameters of the crop viz., fruit set, fruit volume, number of sound seeds per fruit and weight as a result of efficient pollination by virtue of attracting more pollinators. The minimum effect was observed under Control (Pollination Exclusion) treatment. The positive correlation coefficient was computed between the mean number of pollinators and the various weather parameters except rainfall, which showed the negative correlation with the mean number of the flower pollinators.','Cucumber, Pollinators, Apis spp, Attractants, Correlation, Quantitative','The studies highlighted the importance of pollination for improving cucumber yield. The pollinators’ abundance, their behaviour, pollen deposition on stigmas, and over all contribution towards the fruit and seed yield is obvious from the study. The relative attractiveness of flowers, and/or the pollinator dependency of the cucurbit species (cucumber), also influence the insect visits to the crop. Whilst from a management view, the spatial and temporal context of study sites, which include the influence of various weather parameters, upon the abundance and richness of insect pollinator species which could be further enhanced by the use of attractants. ','-','Parveena Bano, Rizwana Khursheed, Humira Mushtaq, Sajad A. Ganie, M.A. Paray, S.S. Pathania, Asma Sherwani and Uzma Arifie (2023). Quantification and Role of Insect Pollinators in Enhancing Productivity in Cucumber. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 15(9): 547-551.'),(7466,'148','Influence of various Nutrients and Biostimulant on Vegetative and Floral Attributes of African Marigold (Tagetes erecta L.) cv. Inca Yellow','Pragnya Paramita Mishra, Sashikala Beura, Rajalaxmi Beura, Manas Ranjan Nath and Sadhana Swastika','Influence-of-various-Nutrients-and-Biostimulant-on-Vegetative-and-Floral-Attributes-of-African-Marigold-(Tagetes-erecta-L.)-cv.-Inca-Yellow-Sashikala-Beura-114.pdf','',1,'Supplementation of different essential nutrients along with biostimulant plays a crucial role in the proper growth and development of marigold ensuring improved flower quality. These inputs actively contribute to the overall well-being of the plant and act as catalysts, facilitating important organic processes within the plant. With this in mind, an experiment spanning two consecutive years, viz., 2018-19 and 2019-20, was conducted during the winter season at the Floriculture Research Field of the Dept. of Floriculture and Landscaping in the Biotechnology-cum-Tissue Culture Centre (BTCC) premises, College of Agriculture, Odisha University of Agriculture and Technology (OUAT), Bhubaneswar, Odisha. The focus of this study was to investigate the impact of applying various nutrients (0.4% MgSO4, 0.4% ZnSO4, and 0.2% Borax) and a biostimulant (0.2% Humic acid), either separately or in combination, on the growth and floral characteristics of African marigold cv. Inca Yellow. The research findings revealed that foliar application of 0.4% MgSO4 resulted in the highest plant height (24.67 cm), basal stem diameter (6.79 mm) and plant spread (22.23 cm (E-W), 22.70 cm (N-S)) along with earliest first bud initiation (22.60 days) and first flowering (40.64 days). Moreover, maximum number of flowers per plant (25.57) was observed in plants treated with a combination of 0.2% Humic acid and 0.4% MgSO4.','Marigold, plant nutrition, humic acid, yield enhancement, crop quality','Based on the findings of this study, it can be inferred that the most effective treatment for Inca Yellow cultivar was the foliar application of0.4% magnesium sulphate alone as well as in combination with 0.2% Humic acid. The use of various nutrients and biostimulant in plants reduces the reliance on chemical fertilizers, thereby enhancing soil health and promoting robust crop growth. This combination of nutrients and biostimulant can be recommended to the flower growers engaged in both loose flower production and the potted plant industry.','-','Pragnya Paramita Mishra, Sashikala Beura, Rajalaxmi Beura, Manas Ranjan Nath and Sadhana Swastika (2023). Influence of various Nutrients and Biostimulant on Vegetative and Floral Attributes of African Marigold (Tagetes erecta L.) cv. Inca Yellow. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 15(1): 701-705.'),(7467,'165','Effect of different Nanofungicides on Radial Mycelial Growth of Bipolaris sorokiniana causing Spot Blotch of Wheat','Bipin Verma, Samir Kumar Biswas, Naimish Kumar and Gajendra Pratap ','Effect of different Nanofungicides on Radial Mycelial Growth of Bipolaris sorokiniana causing Spot Blotch of Wheat-Bipin Verma-93.pdf','',1,'Wheat (Triticum aestivum L.) is the most important food grain crop in India after rice as well as recognized as a world’s major cereal crop and staple food of many regions. Wheat crops face the threat of numerous pathogens, with Bipolaris sorokiniana emerging as a significant menace in wheat-growing regions characterized by hot and humid climates. In South Asia, the estimated average yield losses caused by this disease amount to 19.6 percent, while in India, the figure stands at 15.5 percent. Particularly in the eastern part of India, under severe conditions, yield losses can soar to as high as 100 percent. However reported use of same chemicals may raise resistant strain among the pathogens. Therefore, use of Nano-fungicidal control of spot blotch disease cannot be overstated. Though, the disease can be managed with various nanofungicides under in vitro condition assessed for their efficacy against the disease. The effect of four nanofungicides i.e., Agritecnanofungicide, Silver nanofungicide, Selenium nanofungicide and Silica nanofungicide against B. sorokiniana was evaluated at different concentrations at different concentrations (50, 75 and 100 ppm) by poison food technique. The in vitro experiment revealed a noticeable reduction in the radial mycelial growth of B. sorokiniana as the concentration of nanofungicides increased. Specifically, at 8 days after inoculation (DAI), the following nanofungicides at a concentration of 100 ppm exhibited the highest levels of mycelial growth inhibition when compared to the control: Silver nanofungicide (86.41%), Agritecnanofungicide (80.23%), Selenium nanofungicide (74.88%), and Silica nanofungicide (71.90%).','Nanofungicide, Fungicide, Spot blotch, Radial mycelial growth, Growth inhibition','Wheat crop is attacked by a number of pathogens among them Bipolaris sorokiniana emerged as a major threat in hot and humid wheat growing regions. For management systemic and non-systemic fungicides are used but use of same chemicals may raise resistant strain among the pathogens. Therefore, use of nanofungicidal control of spot blotch disease cannot be overstated. Nanofungicides are a safe and effective alternative to chemical fungicides in mycelial growth inhibition of B. sorokiniana and are regarded as the best option in this scenario. Nanofungicides like Agriteck, Silver, Selenium and Silica were used to treat pathogens that cause plant diseases. It was observed that the higher concentrations of nanofungicides considerably slowed the radial mycelial growth of B. sorokiniana under in vitro conditions. At 8 DAI, Silver nanofungicide @100 ppm (86.41%), Agritecnanofungicide @100 ppm (80.23%), Selenium nanofungicide @100 ppm (74.88%) and Silica nanofungicide @ 100 ppm (71.90%) had the highest inhibition of mycelial growth compared to the control Therefore, using these nanofungicides as antifungal agents has the potential to decrease the environmental pollution and toxicity associated with chemical fungicides.','-','Bipin Verma, Samir Kumar Biswas, Naimish Kumar and Gajendra Pratap (2023). Effect of different Nanofungicides on Radial Mycelial Growth of Bipolaris sorokiniana causing Spot Blotch of Wheat. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 15(9): 552-556.'),(7468,'165','Effect of Seed Priming and Weed Management Techniques on System Productivity and Economics of Dry Direct Seeded Rice-Blackgram Sequence','M. Veerendra, K. Srinivasulu, B. Sreedevi, S. Ratna Kumari and V. Srinivasa Rao','Effect-of-Seed-Priming-and-Weed-Management-Techniques-on-System-Productivity-and-Economics-of-Dry-Direct-Seeded-Rice-Blackgram-Sequence-M-Veerendra-94.pdf','',1,'Investigating the influence of treatments imposed during a particular season on entire cropping sequence in terms of system productivity and economics can help to understand the treatment effect more comprehensively. A field experiment was conducted at Agricultural College, Bapatla to find out the effect of seed priming and weed management techniques imposed during kharif in rice on system productivity and economics of rice-blackgram sequence during kharif and rabi seasons of 2021-22 and 2022-23. The experiment was laid out in a split plot design with seed priming treatments as main plots and weed management practices as subplots. No significant difference was observed among the seed priming treatments. However numerically higher system productivity and economics was realized in hormonal priming with gibberellic acid @ 150 ppm. During both the years, highest total rice equivalent yield (rice yield + rice equivalent yield) was recorded with hand weeding thrice at 20, 40 and 60 DAS followed by pretilachlor + safener @ 750 g a.i ha-1 with in 3 DAS as PE fb bis-pyribac sodium @ 25 g a.i ha-1 at 20-25 DAS fb fenoxaprop-p-ethyl + safener @ 69 g a.i ha-1+ ethoxy sulfuron @ 18.75 g a.i ha-1 (tank mix) at 40-45 DAS as PoE. Highest gross returns were obtained with hand weeding thrice at 20, 40 and 60 DAS. Whereas higher net returns and B:C ratio were obtained with pretilachlor + safener @ 750 g a.i ha-1 with in 3 DAS as PE fb bis-pyribac sodium @ 25 g a.i ha-1 at 20-25 DAS fb fenoxaprop-p-ethyl + safener @ 69 g a.i ha-1+ ethoxy sulfuron @ 18.75 g a.i ha-1 (tank mix) at 40-45 DAS as PoE. Negative net returns and b:c ratio were obtained with weedy check. No interaction was found between seed priming treatments and weed management practices.','Economics, rice-blackgram cropping sequence, seed priming, system productivity, weed management','Numerically, higher benefits were obtained with hormonal priming compared to all the other methods. Higher system productivity and gross returns were obtained with hand weeding thrice at 20, 40 and 60 DAS followed by sequential application of herbicides. However, considering the net returns and b: c ratio, pretilachlor + safener @ 750 g a.i ha-1 with in 3 DAS as PE fb bis-pyribac sodium @ 25 g a.i ha-1 at 20-25 DAS fb fenoxaprop-p-ethyl + safener @ 69 g a.i ha-1+ ethoxy sulfuron @ 18.75 g a.i ha-1 (tank mix) at 40-45 DAS as PoE is economically feasible option over hand weeding. Thus, sequential application of herbicides in dry direct seeded rice can yield higher benefits to the farmers.','-','M. Veerendra, K. Srinivasulu, B. Sreedevi, S. Ratna Kumari and V. Srinivasa Rao (2023). Effect of Seed Priming and Weed Management Techniques on System Productivity and Economics of Dry Direct Seeded Rice-Blackgram Sequence. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 15(9): 557-562.'),(7469,'165','Biochemical Composition of Eggplant (Solanum melongena L.) \r\nand its Nutritional Value\r\n','Ananya Tiwari, Pratibha Singh, Bishnupriya Borkakoty, Devesh Sanjay Pardhi and Vinay Kumar ','Biochemical Composition of Eggplant (Solanum melongena L.)-Ananya Tiwari-95.pdf','',1,'The present investigation entitled “Biochemical composition of eggplant (Solanum melongena L.)” and its nutritional value was carried out in the Laboratory of Biochemistry, ANDUA&T, Kumarganj, Ayodhya (U.P.). The samples of different varieties/germplasms of eggplant (Solanum melongena L.) was procured from Vegetable Farm of this University which was analysed through Completely Randomized Design (CRD). From the study Biochemical parameters for fruit like protein in round 1.1-1.8% in long 1.0-1.6%, lysine in round 11.60-15.60 mg/100g and in long 12.90-15.80 mg/100g, Methionine in round 3.75-5.36mg/100g,in long 4.71-6.48 mg/100g, phenylalanine in round 24.90-29.31 mg/100g in long 24.58-29.49mg/100g, reducing sugar in round 2.25-2.90 mg/100g in long 2.30-2.89 mg/100g, non reducing sugar in round 1.48-2.10 mg/100g in long 1.66-1.76 mg/100g, total sugars in round 3.73-5.00 mg/100g in long 3.96-4.65 mg/100g, Anthocyanin in round 135.9-145.8mg/100g in long 135.1-143.2 mg/100g, Chlorophyll ‘a’ in round 0.86-1.03 mg/100g long 0.89-1.13 mg/100g, Chlorophyll ‘b’ in round 0.68-1.04 mg/100g in long 0.73-0.97mg/100g, and total chlorophyll in round 2.46-3.80 mg/100g in long varieties/germplasms 2.77-3.75 mg/100g.On the basis of overall observation, variety Punjab Sadabahar and 2019 BRL-6 was found superior in terms of nutritional and biochemical parameters. However, all other selected Eggplant varieties/germplasms contain basic nutrients within the range of cultivable Eggplant varieties/germplasms.','Anthocyanin, Biochemical, Eggplant, Germplasm, Nutritional','Present attempt entitled, with aiming specified objectives especially nutritional biochemistry resulted significant and vital inferences among few eggplants of respective varieties/germplasms. Out of ten varieties/germplasms round variety i.e. Punjab Sadabahar and in long eggplant, 2019 BRL-6 germplasms were found most promising and best in terms of nutritional composition as such. In the light of qualitative, aspects have enriched components like amino acid anthocyanin and chlorophyll aforesaid variety i.e. Punjab Sadabahar and Germplasm 2019 BRL-6 having significant presence of Methionine. Lastly, concluded that Punjab Sadabahar and Germplasm 2019 BRL-6 can be recommended for consumption purpose widely among, vast population by replacing other varieties along with increasing sizeable acreage by adoption in their vegetable farm sequence.','-','Ananya Tiwari, Pratibha Singh, Bishnupriya Borkakoty, Devesh Sanjay Pardhi and Vinay Kumar (2023). Biochemical Composition of Eggplant (Solanum melongena L.) and its Nutritional Value. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 15(9): 563-566.'),(7470,'165','Studies on Sensory Parameters and Microbial Load of Aonla Blended Squash during Storage','Sakshi Sharma, Hemant Kumar Panigrahi, Dharmendra Khokhar and Ganeshi Lal Sharma ','Studies-on-Sensory-Parameters-and-Microbial-Load-of-Aonla-Blended-Squash-during-Storage-Sakshi-Sharma-96.pdf','',1,'Aonla is a popular traditional medicine in India, and has been used to treat various ailments including anemia, diarrhoea, dysentery, jaundice, and fever. It is also believed to boost the immune system and improve digestion. Presence of high astringency and bitter taste reduces the table value of fresh raw aonla fruits. Processing of aonla fruits into different value added products is the only effective tool for reducing post-harvest losses in aonla, which vary from 30% to 40% due to its perishable nature and helps in reducing the market glut. Blending aonla juice with other fruits can help to reduce the acidity and astringency of the aonla juice and make it more palatable. Thus the present experiment entitled “Studies on sensory parameters and microbial load of Aonla blended squash during storage” was performed at Horticulture processing laboratory, Department of Fruit Science and Bio-control laboratory, IGKV, Raipur, Chhattisgarh during the year 2021-2022 and 2022-2023 to evaluate various sensory parameters and standardize the recipes of nutritionally enriched aonla blended squash based on consumer appeal. The research trial was carried out in Completely Randomized Design having 13 treatments combinations and 3 replications. It is evident from the experimental findings that the treatment T11 (50% Aonla + 48% Pomegranate + 2% Ginger) was found superior among all other treatments tested for different sensory parameters i.e. colour/appearance, taste, flavor, aroma and overall acceptability. However, the minimum organoleptic score for different sensory parameters is registered under the treatment T13 (100% Aonla). The treatment T11 reported minimum microbial count, while the maximum microbial colony count was recorded under the treatment T13 (100% Aonla).','Microbial load, colony form count, squash, organoleptic, laminar air flow, incubator, hedonic scale','It is concluded from the experiment carried out during the year 2021-2022 and 2022-2023 that the treatment T11 (50% Aonla + 48% Pomegranate + 2% Ginger) was found superior among all other treatments tested for different sensory parameters. However, the minimum organoleptic score for different sensory parameters i.e.colour/appearance, taste, flavor, aroma and overall acceptability is registered under the treatment T13 (100% Aonla). The treatment T11 reported minimum microbial count, while the maximum microbial colony count was recorded under the treatmentT13 (100% Aonla).','-','Sakshi Sharma, Hemant Kumar Panigrahi, Dharmendra Khokhar and Ganeshi Lal Sharma (2023). Studies on Sensory Parameters and Microbial Load of Aonla Blended Squash during Storage. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 15(9): 567-572.'),(7471,'165','Identification and Causes of Resorting of Rubber Cultivation','Nantu Nama, Subhrajyoti Panda, Litan Das, Sabita Mondal and Prabhat Kumar Pal ','Identification-and-Causes-of-Resorting-of-Rubber-Cultivation-Subhrajyoti-Panda-97.pdf','',1,'Rubber growing system is gradually emerging as a promising sector in Tripura and being substitutive to the traditional crop production system. High return compared to other traditional crops and less risk of crop failure makes it more popular among the youth and small and marginal farmers. Limited works has been done on rubber in Unakoti district perspective. In this condition, to study the rubber growing system of Unakoti, present study was undertaken as a M.Sc. student in Kumarghat R.D. Block and Pecharthal R.D. Block as the most concentrated rubber growing blocks in Unakoti district; and selected 60 numbers of rubber growers from the target area as respondents. It was observed that the most common reason for resorting rubber is unsuitability of land and its topography for other crops (mean score 1.82) followed by other reasons. It was also observed that respondent’s strength of resorting causes have positive correlation with the earliness to the rubber cultivation; whereas media communication in respondent’s family had a significant negative correlation. After resorting of rubber it was clear that in case of all respondents (100%), overall happiness in the family, food security and health security has been improved.','Rubber Cultivation, Resorting, Tripura, Causes, Unsuitability of land','The most common reason for resorting rubber is unsuitability of land and its topography for other crops (mean score 1.82). The tribal people could turn their wasteland into rubber cultivation. Most of the land falls under hilly topography which does not suits for other crops to cultivate. Government also provided some financial assistance to establish rubber based enterprises. The next justification for resorting was that, compared to rubber, other crops had lower net profits. The next justification for resorting is related to climate conditions and the unpredictability of growing other crops. Due to its perpetual nature, hardiness, and resistance to unpredictable climate dangers, rubber cannot fail once it is established. As a result, it became crucial when resorting to rubber.','-','Nantu Nama, Subhrajyoti Panda, Litan Das, Sabita Mondal and Prabhat Kumar Pal (2023). Identification and Causes of Resorting of Rubber Cultivation. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 15(9): 573-578.'),(7472,'147','Growth Parameters of Rice Crop as influenced by Sources of Nitrogen Management','Pragyan Das and Bijay Kumar Mohapatra ','Growth-Parameters-of-Rice-Crop-as-influenced-by-Sources-of-Nitrogen-Management-Pragyan-Das-133.pdf','',1,'Nitrogen management is an important agronomic measure to regulate rice yield and grain quality. A field experiment was conducted at Central Research Station, Odisha University of Agriculture and Technology, Bhubaneswar during kharif season of 2021. The experiment was laid out in a randomised block design with four replications comprising of five treatments viz., Soil Test Based Nitrogen Recommendation (STBNR) complete inorganic, Integrated Nutrient Management (INM) (50% organic*+ 50% inorganic) *Organic= 1/3rd FYM+ 1/3rd poultry manure+ 1/3rd neem oil cake, Organic source (1/3rd FYM+ 1/3rd poultry manure+ 1/3rd neem oil cake), Soil Test Based Nitrogen Recommendation (STBNR)+ ZnSO4 @ 25 kg/ha and Integrated Nutrient Management (T2) + ZnSO4 @ 25 kg/ha. The soil was loamy sand, slightly acidic in reaction, medium in organic carbon, available P2O5 and K2O, and low in available nitrogen. The nitrogen management practices influenced the growth parameters viz; plant height, dry matter accumulation, and LAI. INM+ZnSO4 treatment recorded higher growth parameters and crop growth indices followed by INM and STBNR+ZnSO4.','Nitrogen, Rice, CGR, RGR, Integrated Nutrient Management','Among all the nitrogen management practices INM+ZnSO4 influenced the growth parameters viz., plant height, dry matter accumulation, LAI, and crop growth indices more effectively. The results clearly indicated the need for integrated nitrogen management for optimum growth of rice.','-','Pragyan Das and Bijay Kumar Mohapatra (2022). Growth Parameters of Rice Crop as influenced by Sources of Nitrogen Management. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 14(4a): 786-788.'),(7473,'165','Genetic variability Studies for Yield Contributing, Kernel Size and Quality Traits in Peanut (Arachis hypogaea L.)','G. Sreevidya, P. Shanthi, A. Srividhya, S. Vasundhara, M. Vishnuvardhan Kumar, K. Girish Kumar, V. Uday and P. Jashuva ','Genetic-variability-Studies-for-Yield-Contributing,-Kernel-Size-and-Quality-Traits-in-Peanut-(Arachis-hypogaea-L.)-G-Sreevidya-98.pdf','',1,'The research work was carried out at Dry land farm, Regional Agricultural Research Station (RARS), Tirupati during Kharif, 2022 comprising of thirty genotypes and genetic parameters viz., genetic variability, heritability (broad sense) and genetic advance as per cent of mean were estimated for ten characters. Analysis of variance showed that there were significant differences for all the ten characters studied indicating the presence of variability among the genotypes. Among all the characters studied, phenotypic coefficient of variation (PCV) was greater than the genotypic coefficient of variation (GCV) suggesting that the environment strongly influenced these characters. Pod yield plant-1 and Kernel yield plant-1 exhibited high PCV and GCV values (>20%) indicating that these traits can be considered for direct selection which leads to genetic improvement. Pod yield plant-1, kernel yield plant-1, 100 pod weight, 100 kernel weight and kernel length were governed by additive gene action which indicates selection of these traits is rewarding as they recorded higher estimates for both heritability (>60%) and high genetic advance as per cent of mean.','Peanut, Genetic variability, Heritability, Genetic advance','The higher estimates of GCV and PCV were found for Pod yield plant-1 and Kernel yield plant-1 which make these particular traits appropriate for selection. High heritability combined with high genetic advance as per cent of mean were recorded for Pod yield plant-1, kernel yield plant-1, 100 pod weight, 100 kernel weight and kernel length indicating the dominance of additive gene effects and hence direct selection can be used to enhance these traits.','-','G. Sreevidya, P. Shanthi, A. Srividhya, S. Vasundhara, M. Vishnuvardhan Kumar, K. Girish Kumar, V. Uday and P. Jashuva (2023). Genetic variability Studies for Yield Contributing, Kernel Size and Quality Traits in Peanut (Arachis hypogaea L.). Biological Forum – An International Journal, 15(9): 579-582.'),(7474,'165','ANDCP 1601: A Pistillate Line of Castor (Ricinnus communis L.) with Unique Morphological Characters and Resistant to Wilt (Fusarium oxysporum f.sp. ricini)','Patel K.V., Katba P.J., Patel M.P., Bhanvadia A.S. and Chavadhari R.L.','ANDCP-1601-A-Pistillate-Line-of-Castor-(Ricinnus-communis-L.)-with-Unique-Morphological-Characters-and-Resistant-to-Wilt-(Fusarium-oxysporum-f.sp.-ricini)-Patel-KV-99.pdf','',1,'Castor (Ricinus communis L.) is an annual or perennial flowering non-edible versatile oilseed species of Euphorbiaceae family having sexually polymorphic species with unisexual flowers, either male or female mostly arranged as monoecious and occasionally pistillate spike. Three types of pistillate mechanism are present in the castor i.e. N, S and NES types. These mechanisms are utilized for the development of new pistillate lines in castor. The development of a new pistillate line in castor is a highly tedious and changeable job. ANDCP 1601 is a new NES type pistillate line that was identified from the segregating population of cross between ANDCP 06-07 × ACP 1-06-07 during 2008-09 at Regional Research Station, AAU, Anand. The pistillate line evaluation trial was conducted at two locations viz., Anand and Derol during kharif 2021-22 and 2022-23. Seed yield of ANDCP 1601 was found 11.23 and 18.78 per cent higher than SKP 84 during 2021-22 and 2022-23, respectively. The proposed line has distinct morphological characters viz., green stem color, triple bloom, long peduncle, semi compact spike with spiny capsule, early maturing and late revertant type. At RRS, AAU, Anand tested under wilt screening plot against the wilt susceptible check i.e. JI 35 and it is found highly resistant reaction against wilt. Therefore, the newly developed promising pistillate line ANDCP 1601 can be effectively utilized in hybrid breeding program for developing high yielding, green stem hybrid in castor.','ANDCP 1601, pistillate line, castor, morphological, Wilt','The newly developed line ANDCP 1601 is having NES type pistillate mechanism with distinct morphological characters like green stem, triple bloom, semi compact spike, early maturing, late revertant and highly wilt resistant reaction.','-','Patel K.V., Katba P.J., Patel M.P., Bhanvadia A.S. and Chavadhari R.L. (2023). ANDCP 1601: A Pistillate Line of Castor (Ricinnus communis L.) with Unique Morphological Characters and Resistant to Wilt (Fusarium oxysporum f.sp. ricini). Biological Forum – An International Journal, 15(9): 583-587.'),(7475,'165','Influence of Inoculum Density of Alternaria brassicae on Development of Alternaria leaf Spot in Cauliflower','Mummineni Sunitha and P.K. Jha ','Influence-of-Inoculum-Density-of-Alternaria-brassicae-on-Development-of-Alternaria-leaf-Spot-in-Cauliflower-Mummineni-Sunitha-100.pdf','',1,'Cauliflower belongs to the family Brassicaceae and is one of the most important winter vegetable after cabbage in terms of area and production across the globe. Alternaria leaf spot is the most destructive disease of cauliflower crop at vegetable curd stage and seed setting stage. It has been attributed to cause 30-50% losses and in most severe cases, the losses in yield may reach up to 98% in seed crop. The pathogen Alternaria brassicae was found to produce typical symptoms of the disease as small, irregular brown spots with concentric rings, also surrounded by yellow chlorotic halo. Severely affected seedlings showed dark brown spots with damping off symptoms. During the present investigation, different inoculum levels of the pathogen- Alternaria brassicae were evaluated to assess their effect on development of Alternaria leaf spot disease on cauliflower. The lowest Percent Disease Index (7.41%) was noticed with 5g of inoculum load whereas 40g of inoculum load caused maximum disease development with Percent Disease Index (50.81%).','Alternaria brassicae, Cauliflower, Disease severity, Inoculum load, Percent Disease Index','The current research finding showed the effect of various inoculum level of the Alternaria brassicae on the development of Alternaria leaf spot on cauliflower. The disease development was markedly influenced by the concentration of inoculum as evident from increasing intensity of disease with increase in the inoculum load. Soil application of 40g inoculum of pathogen caused maximum disease development (50.81%) under pot condition. Thus, inoculum level largely determine the quantum of disease development. Thus, the present finding will be helpful in predicting the disease development based on availability of inoculum level, thereby deciding the management strategy to prevent the disease development.','-','Mummineni Sunitha and P.K. Jha (2023). Influence of Inoculum Density of Alternaria brassicae on Development of Alternaria leaf Spot in Cauliflower. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 15(9): 588-591.'),(7476,'165','Influence of Inoculum Density of Alternaria brassicae on Development of Alternaria leaf Spot in Cauliflower','Mummineni Sunitha and P.K. Jha ','Influence-of-Inoculum-Density-of-Alternaria-brassicae-on-Development-of-Alternaria-leaf-Spot-in-Cauliflower-Mummineni-Sunitha-100.pdf','',1,'Cauliflower belongs to the family Brassicaceae and is one of the most important winter vegetable after cabbage in terms of area and production across the globe. Alternaria leaf spot is the most destructive disease of cauliflower crop at vegetable curd stage and seed setting stage. It has been attributed to cause 30-50% losses and in most severe cases, the losses in yield may reach up to 98% in seed crop. The pathogen Alternaria brassicae was found to produce typical symptoms of the disease as small, irregular brown spots with concentric rings, also surrounded by yellow chlorotic halo. Severely affected seedlings showed dark brown spots with damping off symptoms. During the present investigation, different inoculum levels of the pathogen- Alternaria brassicae were evaluated to assess their effect on development of Alternaria leaf spot disease on cauliflower. The lowest Percent Disease Index (7.41%) was noticed with 5g of inoculum load whereas 40g of inoculum load caused maximum disease development with Percent Disease Index (50.81%).','Alternaria brassicae, Cauliflower, Disease severity, Inoculum load, Percent Disease Index','The current research finding showed the effect of various inoculum level of the Alternaria brassicae on the development of Alternaria leaf spot on cauliflower. The disease development was markedly influenced by the concentration of inoculum as evident from increasing intensity of disease with increase in the inoculum load. Soil application of 40g inoculum of pathogen caused maximum disease development (50.81%) under pot condition. Thus, inoculum level largely determine the quantum of disease development. Thus, the present finding will be helpful in predicting the disease development based on availability of inoculum level, thereby deciding the management strategy to prevent the disease development.','-','Mummineni Sunitha and P.K. Jha (2023). Influence of Inoculum Density of Alternaria brassicae on Development of Alternaria leaf Spot in Cauliflower. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 15(9): 588-591.'),(7477,'149','A Study on Evaluation of Antipyretic and Analgesic Activities of Curcuma longa Extract','Keshamma E.','A-Study-on-Evaluation-of-Antipyretic-and-Analgesic-Activities-of-Curcuma-longa-Extract-Keshamma-E-199.pdf','',1,'Turmeric has been used for centuries in many indigenous medical systems, including the Ayurvedic systems, to treat inflammatory diseases and human afflictions. Hence, the present study was conducted with the main objectives of evaluating the antipyretic and analgesic activities of rhizome extract of Curcuma longa. Rhizome of C. longa was subjected to successive solvent extraction by continuous hot extraction (Soxhlet) with ethanol. Brewer\'s yeast\'s antipyretic and acetic acid induced writhing test was used for the evaluation of antipyretic and analgesic effects of ethanolic rhizome extract of C. longa respectively. Results depicted that writhing inhibition (%) and antipyretic effect of ethanolic rhizome extract of C. longa at the concentration of 25 µl/L and 100 µl/L respectively was found to be at par with that of positive control i.e., standard Diclofenac sodium drug. In conclusion, our study results clearly demonstrated that ethanolic rhizome extract of C. longa exhibited antipyretic and analgesic activities. Hence, rhizome of C. longa could be considered for development natural antipyretic and analgesic drugs.','Curcuma longa, Rhizome, Extract, Antipyretic, Analgesic','The results of present study clearly demonstrated that ethanolic rhizome extract of C. longa exhibited antipyretic and analgesic activities. Hence, rhizome of C. longa could be considered for development natural antipyretic and analgesic drugs. However, further studies are recommended to be carried in-vivo model for further evaluation of efficacy and to elucidate the exact mechanism of action responsible for antipyretic and analgesic activities of rhizome of C. longa.','-','Keshamma E. (2023). A Study on Evaluation of Antipyretic and Analgesic Activities of Curcuma longa Extract. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 15(2): 1296-1299.'),(7478,'150','An Overview on Earthworm and Soil Toxicology Studies','Akhila A. and Keshamma E. ','An-Overview-on-Earthworm-and-Soil-Toxicology-Studies-Keshamma-E-121.pdf','',1,'Since the late 1960s, the study of soil ecotoxicology has gained popularity. There are numerous studies on the effects of various classes of pesticides on aquatic life and humans. Although there is a dearth of data in this area of ecotoxicology, adverse effects of pesticides on soil invertebrate fauna have also been studied over time. Earthworms have recently become recognized as useful model organisms in the study of soil ecotoxicology. With earthworms, it is possible to study the effects of different pesticides, contaminants in the soil, and their residues. When exposed to dangerous chemical substances, they exhibit changes in morphology, behavior, fecundity, and biochemical components. Although the toxicity of metal contaminated soils has been assessed with various bioassays, more information is needed about the biochemical responses, which may help to elucidate the mechanisms involved in metal toxicity. Previously reported that the earthworm, Eisenia fetida, accumulates cadmium in its seminal vesicles. The bio-accumulative ability of earthworms is well known, and thus the earthworm could be a useful living organism for the bio-monitoring of soil pollution. Here, different aspects point of view of use of earthworms in study of soil toxicology have been summarized.','Earthworm, Ecosystem, Soil toxicity, Biomonitoring','Understanding the long-term effects of various environmental pollutants and chemicals present in the soil ecosystem is the ultimate goal of soil toxicological studies. It also necessitates a deeper understanding of the mechanisms by which different chemicals and their residues are neutralized in biological systems, how they affect various metabolic pathways, and how they can affect soil-dwelling organisms at sub-lethal concentrations. While earthworms can be an important part of these studies, more research in the field of soil ecotoxicology should focus on extending the range of test organisms to include numerous ecologically significant soil fauna. The effects of various chemicals on multiple generations can also be investigated, which may reveal details about how the soil fauna adapts and changes under challenging circumstances. Furthermore, based on the information provided by earthworms, it is unclear how the degree of soil pollution should be assessed. Although numerous studies have been carried out, to our knowledge no standardized methodology has been established. It will take more research to develop a more comprehensive bio-monitoring technique that evaluates soil pollution using earthworms.','-','Akhila A. and Keshamma E. (2023). An Overview on Earthworm and Soil Toxicology Studies. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 15(3): 778-783.'),(7479,'165','Mean Performance of Tomato (Solanum lycopersicum L.) Genotypes under Chhattisgarh Plains for Fruit Yield, Quality and its components','Mahesh Pamukuntla, Dhananjay Sharma, Thriveni Vangapandu, Yamini Siwna, Archna Banjare and Gulab Das Barman ','Mean-Performance-of--Tomato-(Solanum-lycopersicum-L.)-Genotypes-under-Chhattisgarh-Plains-for-Fruit-Yield,-Quality-and-its-components-Pamukuntla-Mahesh-101.pdf','',1,'The present investigation was carried out in the field of AICRP on Vegetable Crops at Horticultural Research cum Instructional Farm, Department of Vegetable Science, Indira Gandhi Krishi Vishwavidyalaya, Raipur (C.G.) during Rabi 2020–21 to evaluate the mean performance of tomato genotypes for yield, quality, and its components. The research material consists of ten diverse genotypes/variety of tomato collected from the AICRP on Vegetable Crops, Raipur. All the genotypes were grown in RBD with three replications. Significant differences were observed for all the traits studied, indicating a substantial amount of variation. The experiment results revealed that genotype TODVR-4 exhibited the best for the following characters: plant height (cm), number of primary branches, number of secondary branches, and days to 50% flowering. TODVR-5 showed best for days to first fruit set. TODVR-6 showed the best for Total Soluble Solids (%), TODVR-8 showed the best for stem girth (cm), and TODVR-9 showed the best for days to first flowering, number of fruits per cluster, days to attain marketable maturity, and number of fruits per plant. TOLCV-1 performed best for characters like fruit diameter (cm) and average fruit weight (g), while TOLCV-2 performed best for fruit length (cm) and pericarp thickness (mm). TOLCV-4 performed best for the characters fruit yield per plot (kg), fruit yield per hectare (q), and number of locules per fruit.','Genotype, tomato, yield, quality, Solanum lycopersicum','By considering the mean performance, a wide range of variation was observed among ten genotypes of tomato, evaluated for eighteen characters. From above study we concluded that traits like fruit yield per hectare, fruit yield per plot, number of fruits per plant, average fruit weight, number of fruits per cluster, number of locules per fruit and quality characters etc. are important traits for which selection based on best mean performance could be very effective for cultivation under Chhattisgarh plains condition. The improvement of these characters and the best performing genotypes for fruit yield per hectare and quality are TOLCV-4, TOLCV-2, TODVR-4 and TODVR-8 can be effective and which can also be retained in the future generations.','-','Mahesh Pamukuntla, Dhananjay Sharma, Thriveni Vangapandu, Yamini Siwna, Archna Banjare and Gulab Das Barman (2023). Mean Performance of Tomato (Solanum lycopersicum L.) Genotypes under Chhattisgarh Plains for Fruit Yield, Quality and its components. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 15(9): 592-596.'),(7480,'165','Impact of Legume Residues and Nitrogen Levels on Soil Nutrient Dynamics in Zero-Till Maize Cropping System','A. Sai Kishore, D. Sreelatha, M. Malla Reddy, M.V. Nagesh Kumar and T. Sukruth Kumar ','Impact-of-Legume-Residues-and-Nitrogen-Levels-on-Soil-Nutrient-Dynamics-in-Zero-Till-Maize-Cropping-System-A-Sai-Kishore-102.pdf','',1,'An experiment was conducted to study the influence of residual effect of preceding legumes and nitrogen levels on zero-till rabi maize on soil nutrient dynamics at Maize Research Centre, Agricultural Research Institute, Rajendranagar, Hyderabad during kharif and rabi seasons of 2021-22 and 2022-23. The experiment was laid out in split-plot design with 18 treatments consisted of three cropping sequences viz., Groundnut-zero-till maize, Soybean-zero-till maize and Greengram- zero-till maize as main plots and 6 sub-plots viz., 100%RDN - 100%RDN, 100%RDN - 125% RDN, 100%RDN - 150% RDN, 75% RDN - 100%RDN, 75% RDN - 125%RDN, 75%RDN - 150% RDN during kharif and rabi respectively. Among the different cropping systems, significantly higher soil aggregates and available soil N was noted in preceding kharif greengram on rabi zero-till maize cropping sequence over soybean and groundnut- maize cropping sequences. Subsequently, higher penetration resistance and bulk density was seen in groundnut- maize followed by soybean and greengram- maize sequence in two years of study. On the other hand, with the application of 100% RDN for preceding kharif legumes followed by 150% RDN for rabi maize reported higher soil penetration resistance, aggregates, bulk density and available soil N than 100%RDN - 125% RDN which was on par with 75%RDN - 150%RDN and lowest soil penetration resistance, aggregates, bulk density and available soil N was observed in 75% RDN in kharif and 100% RDN in rabi respectively. Conversely, the post-harvest soil pH, EC, OC, available soil P and K were not influenced by the effect of preceding legume residues on succeeding rabi maize with varied levels of nitrogen. Further the interaction effect in post-harvest soil physical and chemical properties was found to be non-significant during both the years of the study.','Cropping sequence, Nitrogen levels. Soil penetration resistance, Bulk density, Soil aggregates','The study highlights the significance of residue retention of kharif legumes in rabi zero-till maize on soil physico-chemical properties and available nutrient status for enhanced crop growth and development which led to sustainable soil fertility.','A. Sai Kishore, D. Sreelatha, M. Malla Reddy, M.V. Nagesh Kumar and T. Sukruth Kumar ','A. Sai Kishore, D. Sreelatha, M. Malla Reddy, M.V. Nagesh Kumar and T. Sukruth Kumar (2023). Impact of Legume Residues and Nitrogen Levels on Soil Nutrient Dynamics in Zero-Till Maize Cropping System. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 15(9): 597-601.'),(7481,'166','New Records of Tailed Cellar Spider Crossopriza lyoni (Blackwall, 1867) (Arachnida: Araneae : Pholcidae) from Uttar Pradesh (India), with Systematic Account, Distribution and other Aspects','Akhlaq Husain and Hishmi Jamil Husain ','New-Records-of-Tailed-Cellar-Spider-Crossopriza-lyoni-(Blackwall,-1867)-(Arachnida-Araneae-Akhlaq-Husain-1.pdf','',1,'Present communication deals with new records of Crossopriza lyoni, the Tailed Cellar Spider, belonging to family Pholcidae under order Araneae and class Arachnida, from Azamgarh, Fatehpur Sikri and Noida (Uttar Pradesh, India) with systematic account, distribution, habitat, web, food & feeding, life-cycle, life-span, venom, self-defence and as being potential pest controllers.','New records, Crossopriza lyoni, Uttar Pradesh','-','-','-'),(7482,'165','Integrated Management of Pulse Beetle, Callosobruchus chinensis L. (Coleoptera: Chrysomelidae) on Stored Pigeonpea Seeds','Manja Naik C., Doddabasappa, B., Mutthuraju G.P. and Udagi B.S. ','Integrated-Management-of-Pulse-Beetle,-Callosobruchus-chinensis-L.-(Coleoptera-Chrysomelidae)-on-Stored-Pigeonpea-Seeds-Manja-Naik-C-103.pdf','',1,'The experiment conducted on management of pulse beetle, Callosobruchus chinensis Linn. (Coleoptera: Chrysomelidae) during 2020 to 2021. Pulse beetle is a major constraint in production which inflicts severe losses both in the field and storage. The study revealed that the pigeonpea plants sprayed with emamectinbenzoate 5 SG @0.3g / l at the time of pod maturity has recorded the minimum seed damage of 0.25% at 8 weeks after storage of pigeonpea seeds. The seeds exposed for sun light in clear polythene bags for 4 hours for 6 days registered least seed damage of 10.66%. In storage pigeonpea seeds treated with insecticide spinetoram 11.7% SC @ 6.50 ml/kg seeds azadirachtin 10,000ppm @ 6.50 ml/kg seed and deltamethrin 2.8EC @ 0.04 ml/kg seed were effective in suppressing the bruchid, C.chinensis. Whereas, maximum seed damage of 21.33 per cent and minimum seed quality parameters were observed in untreated control. The beetle population can be suppressed by adopting integrated pest management approaches.','Callosobruchus chinensis, Cajanus cajan, Azadirachtin, Solarization, Insecticides','The study can be concluded that, the pigeonpea plants sprayed with emamectin benzoate 5 SG @0.3g / l at the time of pod maturity has recorded the minimum seed damage of 0.25% at 8 weeks after storage of pigeonpea seeds. The seeds exposed for sun light in clear polythene bags for 4 hours for 6 days registered least seed damage of 10.66%. In storage pigeonpea seeds treated with insecticide spinetoram 11.7% SC @ 6.50 ml/kg seeds azadirachtin 10,000ppm @ 6.50 ml/kg seed and deltamethrin2.8EC @ 0.04 ml/kg seed were effective in suppressing the bruchid, C. chinensis. Whereas, maximum seed damage of 21.33 per cent and minimum seed quality parameters were observed in untreated control. The bruchid population was suppressed by adopting integrated pest management approaches.','-','Manja Naik C., Doddabasappa, B., Mutthuraju G.P. and Udagi B.S. (2023). Integrated Management of Pulse Beetle, Callosobruchus chinensis L. (Coleoptera: Chrysomelidae) on Stored Pigeonpea Seeds. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 15(9): 602-606.'),(7483,'165','Analysis of Gene Effects in Vegetable-Type Pigeon Pea under Foothill of Nagaland','N. Moses, Malini Barthakur Sharma, J.P. Gupta, Kigwe Seyie and Pankaj Shah ','Analysis of Gene Effects in Vegetable-Type Pigeon Pea under Foothill of Nagaland-N Moses-104.pdf','',1,'The experiment on Analysis of gene effects in vegetable-type pigeon pea under foothill of Nagaland was conducted at the farm of Department of Genetics and Plant Breeding, School of Agricultural Sciences and Rural Development, Medziphema Campus, Nagaland University. Twelve crosses were generated, using five parameter model (P1, P2, F1, F2 and F3) generation mean analysis was done to assess the gene effects and its interaction for yield component traits. Epistatic gene effects were also found important for almost all the characters in all the crosses. Two crosses namely, BRG-2 × BRG-1 and BRG-2 × BRG-3 recorded positive significant for all the components of gene effect ( [m], [d], [h], [i] and [l]) for seed yield also hybrid B2-10 × values BRG-1 and BRG-2 × BRG-1 were found significant for all the components of gene effect for seed yield and all the yield traits whereas, cross, B2-10 × BRG-3, BRG-2 × BRG-3, BRG-2 × B1-169 -1 and B3-13 × BRG-1 recorded significant values for yield and seven yield attributing traits. Similarly, in crosses, B2-10 × B1-169 -1, B2-5-2-1 × BRG-1, B2-5-2-1 × B1-169 -1, B3-13 × BRG-3 and B2-5-2-1 × BRG-3 were found significance for all component of gene effects for some yield traits. Dominance (h) and dominance x dominance interaction effect followed by additive (d) and additive x additive interaction appears to play a significant role for the expression of yield per plant and its attributes. Breeding of pigeonpea is more challenging as compared to other food legumes; this may be attributed to various crop specific traits, and high sensitivity to changes in environment. Therefore, there is a need to identify the parents and the crosses that can be exploited for breeding program suitable for the agro climatic conditions of Nagaland.','Pigeon pea, additive gene action, dominance gene action, additive x additive, dominance x dominance','The relative contribution and magnitude of dominant gene effect (h) and dominance x dominance (l) effect was much higher than additive gene effect (d) and additive x additive gene effect (i), indicating the prevalence of dominant gene effects (h) and dominance x dominance gene effect (l) in case of epistasis for the inheritance of yield and attributing characters.\r\nIn addition, the predominance of dominant gene effects, taking into account the main gene effects and their interactions, dominance gene effects and dominance x dominance gene effects appear to play a significant role in the expression of yield per plant and its characteristics, with a higher frequency of duplicate type of epistasis for most of the traits, including seed yield per plant. It\'s clear that the dominant gene effect is being controlled more closely by complex characters such as the yield of the seed and its attributing genes. Based on above findings, it may be suggested that in those crosses where additive and additive x additive gene effects were predominant, one should follow the pedigree or modified pedigree method of selection, whereas in those crosses where dominance and dominance x dominance gene effect were significant heterosis breeding would be effective. To exploit all types of gene effects, reciprocal recurrent selection could be the most effective breeding method \r\n The overall results revealed that parent BRG-1, BRG-2 and BRG-3 was proved to be good combiner for seed yield per plant and its contributing traits. Based on all the components of gene effect for seed yield per plant and its component traits the hybrid BRG-2 x BRG-1 and BRG-2 x BRG-3 was found most promising. Therefore, it needs to be exploited in future breeding programme of pigeon pea in Nagaland. \r\n','-','N. Moses, Malini Barthakur Sharma, J.P. Gupta, Kigwe Seyie and Pankaj Shah (2023). Analysis of Gene Effects in Vegetable-Type Pigeon Pea under Foothill of Nagaland. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 15(9): 607-613.'),(7484,'165','Assessment of Effect of various Micronutrients and their Optimum Dose for Growth and Yield Parameters of Broccoli (Brassica oleracea var italica L.) under Polyhouse Condition','Alka Minz, Susmitha Kottapu, Nisha Jangre, Deepshikha and Karuna Sahu ','Assessment-of-Effect-of-various-Micronutrients-and-their-Optimum-Dose-for-Growth-and-Yield-Parameters-of-Broccoli-(Brassica-oleracea-var-italica-L.)-under-Polyhouse-Condition-Alka-Minz-105.pdf','',1,'Agriculture, IGKV, Raipur (C.G)” to find out the possible effect of foliar application of micronutrients with different concentration levels on growth and yield of broccoli. Three replications of the experiment were set up using a completely randomized design (CRD). It was consisted of ten treatments including T0: Control (without spray of micronutrients), T1: Cu @ 0.20%, T2: Cu @ 0.40%, T3: Cu @ 0.60%, T4: Bo @ 0.20%, T5: Bo @ 0.40%, T6: Bo @ 0.60%, T7: Zn @ 0.20%, T8: Zn @ 0.40% and T9: Zn @ 0.60%,”. Three foliar applications were performed at 15, 30 and 45 days after transplanting. The experiment\'s findings revealed a considerable difference between different treatment combinations. Treatments T9 -zinc sulphate @ 0.60% found highly effective for growth parameters as it showed greatest plant height (66.81cm), no. of leaves (26.47), stalk length (18.22 cm), root length (16.06 cm) while T5- boric acid @ 0.40% was found superior to days to first curd induction, 50% maturity and harvest of curd. Foliar application of micronutrients has become a farm management practices which increases the overall characters of various crops. The aim of this experiment was to evaluate the effect of foliar application of individual nutrients on growth and yield of broccoli. It may be concluded that foliar application of zinc sulphate @ 0.60% showed a positive response and gives highest effect for growth parameters and boric acid @ 0.40% resulted in increased yield attributing parameters. Therefore, foliar micronutrient the absorption may be a potential strategy to maximize broccoli growth and output.','Broccoli, foliar application, Micronutrient, growth and yield','The current experimental findings suggest that sprays of different micronutrients (Cu, B, Zn) give effective response in growth, yield and quality in broccoli. The finding revealed that T9- zinc sulphate @ 0.60% was found better for increasing vegetative parameters whereas T5- Boric acid @ 0.40% were found better performance in yield parameters.','-','Alka Minz, Susmitha Kottapu, Nisha Jangre, Deepshikha and Karuna Sahu (2023). Assessment of Effect of various Micronutrients and their Optimum Dose for Growth and Yield Parameters of Broccoli (Brassica oleracea var italica L.) under Polyhouse Condition. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 15(9): 614-618.'),(7485,'165','Identification of in vitro Regeneration Potential of Rice (Oryza sativa L.) Landraces','Selvamuthu K., Chitra S. and Vanniarajan C. ','Identification-of-in-vitro-Regeneration-Potential-of-Rice-(Oryza-sativa-L.)-Landraces-Selvamuthu-K-106.pdf','',1,'An efficient callus induction and in vitro regeneration potential of ten rice landraces were analysed along with indica rice variety check ASD 16. The effect of plant growth regulator (2,4-D) on callus induction was studied to maximize the production of embryogenic calli in rice land races. This study found that all the rice land races exhibited high frequency of callus induction on Murashige and Skoog (MS) medium supplemented with 2,4-D 2.5 mg/l. In this concentration, higher callus induction frequency was exhibited by the land race Kallurundikar followed by the landraces Arupatham Kuruvai, Noorungan, Poongar Mattaikar, Kuliyadichan, Chithikaikar, Vellaichithiraikar, Kichalisamba and Nooripathu. The hundred percent regeneration potential was recorded by the land races Chithikaikar, Kallurundikar, Kuliyadichan, Mattaikar and Noorungan when MS media supplemented with BAP 3.0 mg/l + Kinetin 1.5 mg/l + NAA 3.5 mg/l + IAA 1.5 mg/l. Whereas, the landrace Vellaichithiraikar exhibited higher browning rate when compared to other land races. Hence, the optimized conditions for callus formation and regeneration may be used for micropropagation studies for the improvement of rice landraces. ','Landraces, Rice, Callus, Growth Regulator, In vitro, Shoot regeneration, Rooting','Based on above experimental results, it could be concluded that the yield improvement through biotechnological techniques is feasible by scutellum derived callus and it regeneration in rice land races.','-','Selvamuthu K., Chitra S. and Vanniarajan C. (2023). Identification of in vitro Regeneration Potential of Rice (Oryza sativa L.) Landraces. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 15(9): 619-622.'),(7486,'165','Identification of in vitro Regeneration Potential of Rice (Oryza sativa L.) Landraces','Selvamuthu K., Chitra S. and Vanniarajan C. ','Identification-of-in-vitro-Regeneration-Potential-of-Rice-(Oryza-sativa-L.)-Landraces-Selvamuthu-K-106.pdf','',1,'An efficient callus induction and in vitro regeneration potential of ten rice landraces were analysed along with indica rice variety check ASD 16. The effect of plant growth regulator (2,4-D) on callus induction was studied to maximize the production of embryogenic calli in rice land races. This study found that all the rice land races exhibited high frequency of callus induction on Murashige and Skoog (MS) medium supplemented with 2,4-D 2.5 mg/l. In this concentration, higher callus induction frequency was exhibited by the land race Kallurundikar followed by the landraces Arupatham Kuruvai, Noorungan, Poongar Mattaikar, Kuliyadichan, Chithikaikar, Vellaichithiraikar, Kichalisamba and Nooripathu. The hundred percent regeneration potential was recorded by the land races Chithikaikar, Kallurundikar, Kuliyadichan, Mattaikar and Noorungan when MS media supplemented with BAP 3.0 mg/l + Kinetin 1.5 mg/l + NAA 3.5 mg/l + IAA 1.5 mg/l. Whereas, the landrace Vellaichithiraikar exhibited higher browning rate when compared to other land races. Hence, the optimized conditions for callus formation and regeneration may be used for micropropagation studies for the improvement of rice landraces. ','Landraces, Rice, Callus, Growth Regulator, In vitro, Shoot regeneration, Rooting','Based on above experimental results, it could be concluded that the yield improvement through biotechnological techniques is feasible by scutellum derived callus and it regeneration in rice land races.','-','Selvamuthu K., Chitra S. and Vanniarajan C. (2023). Identification of in vitro Regeneration Potential of Rice (Oryza sativa L.) Landraces. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 15(9): 619-622.'),(7487,'165','Bio Efficacy of Fungicides against Alternaria porri causing the Purple Blotch Disease of Onion','Chandan M.J., Mushrif S. K., Devappa, V., Manjunatha Reddy T.B., Meenakshi Sood and Premalatha B.R. ','Bio-Efficacy-of-Fungicides-against-Alternaria-porri-causing-the-Purple-Blotch-Disease-of-Onion-Sadanand-K-107.pdf','',1,'Purple blotch disease of onion caused by Alternaria porri (Ellis) Cif. is one of the most destructive diseases of onion and thus has become a major constraint in onion cultivation. Among the various management practices, management through fungicide is the best option. The present investigations involving the bio efficacy of various new generation fungicides and efficacy of sequential sprays were undertaken. The bio efficacy studies involved in vitro efficacy of ten fungicides at various concentration levels and later field evaluation of promising fungicides against Alternaria porri, the causal agent of purple blotch of onion. Among the fungicides, azoxystrobin + tebuconazole was found to be the most effective chemical as it inhibited the growth of the mycelium completely at all levels of concentrations this was followed by the fungicides hexaconazole and difenoconazole. A study on the field evaluation of the fungicides that were found most effective against A. porri under in vitro conditions was carried out. A significant difference in per cent disease index among the treatments was noticed. The fungicide azoxystrobin + tebuconazole at 0.1 per cent concentration recorded the least disease severity (PDI 28.76) followed by hexaconazole (PDI 34.59) at 0.1 per cent. The treatment involving combi product pyraclostrobin + epoxiconazole at 0.1 per cent was least effective (PDI 41.25). The outcome on the management of purple blotch disease of onion using sequential sprays using the combination of 3 fungicides revealed that treatment involving spray of propiconazole followed by hexaconazole and then mancozeb at 15 days interval) was most effective in controlling the purple blotch of onion with least disease severity (PDI 32.08) and followed by the treatment involving spray of hexaconazole followed by propiconazole and then mancozeb at 15 days interval) with PDI of 36.25 per cent. The findings of this study might be useful in exploring new fungicides and also sequential spray pattern for the management of the purple blotch disease of onion.','Onion, Alternaria porri, fungicides and sequential spray','The purple blotch caused by Alternaria porri (Ellis) Cif. is the most destructive disease that causes severe damage to both bulb and seed production of the onion. Currently, the best management practice available is use of fungicides. Our studies involving use of fungicides and sequential sprays of fungicides revealed that combi product fungicide azoxystrobin + tebuconazole and other fungicide hexaconazole were found to be highly effective both under in vitro and in vivo conditions. The sequential spray comprising of the fungicides propiconazole followed by hexaconazole and then by mancozeb was not only effective in reducing disease severity but also contributed to high yield of onion bulbs.','-','Chandan M.J., Mushrif S. K., Devappa, V., Manjunatha Reddy T.B., Meenakshi Sood and Premalatha B.R. (2023). Bio Efficacy of Fungicides against Alternaria porri causing the Purple Blotch Disease of Onion. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 15(9): 623-630.'),(7488,'165','Performance Evaluation of Red Fleshed Guava (Psidium guajava L.) Accessions for Physico–chemical characteristics under North-eastern Transitional Zone of Karnataka','Ravi G.K., Praveen Jholgiker, Srinivas N., Patil S.N., Praveen Kumar B.N., Thippanna, K.S. and Pattepur S. ','Performance-Evaluation-of-Red-Fleshed-Guava-(Psidium-guajava-L.)--Accessions-for-Physico–chemical-characteristics-under-North-eastern-Transitional-Zone-of-Karnataka-RAVI-GK-108.pdf','',1,'Ten red fleshed guava varieties and local types viz., Arka Kiran, Arka Rashmi, Lalit, H-17-16, Punjab Pink and SRD-HYD-1, SR-I, SR-II, GR-I and GR-II were evaluated for physico-chemical characteristics under North-Eastern transitional zone of Karnataka. The accessions evaluated showed wide range of variation with respect to physico-chemical characteristics. The accession H-17-16 recorded maximum fruit length (7.45 cm) and maximum TSS (15.20°B). However, the ascorbic acid (243.47 mg/100g) and total sugars (12.37 %) was found to be maximum in SRD-HYD-1 and maximum Lycopene was noted in fruits of Arka Kiran (5.14 mg/100g). On the basis of different characters the accessions H-17-16, Arka Kiran, SRD-HYD-1 and Punjab Pink were found to be superior in their performance for physico-chemical characteristics.','Guava, quality, Physico-chemical, accessions','The study concluded that the genotype H-17-16 was superior to other varieties in relation to physico-chemical parameters and organoleptic scores, the other varieties viz., Arka Kiran, Punjab Pink, SRD-HYD-1 and Arka Rashmi were moderate yielders but were good for quality and organoleptic scores.','-','Ravi G.K., Praveen Jholgiker, Srinivas N., Patil S.N., Praveen Kumar B.N., Thippanna, K.S. and Pattepur S. (2023). Performance Evaluation of Red Fleshed Guava (Psidium guajava L.) Accessions for Physico–chemical characteristics under North-eastern Transitional Zone of Karnataka. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 15(9): 631-634.'),(7489,'165','Effect of Organic Manures and Biofertilizers on Growth Yield and Quality of Broccoli','Durgesh Kumar, R. B. Singh, Virendra Kumar, Arun Kumar Verma and Vinay Kumar Maurya ','Effect-of-Organic-Manures-and-Biofertilizers-on-Growth-Yield-and-Quality-of-Broccoli-Durgesh-Kumar-109.pdf','',1,'A field experiment was carried out at main experimental farm Department of Vegetable Science, Chandra Shekhar Azad University of Agriculture & Technology, Kalyanpur, Kanpur U.P. (208002) India during Rabi season in consecutive year of 2019-2020 and 2020-2021. It comprised twelve treatment combinations in a randomized block-design with three replications. The growth parameters of the broccoli crop were significantly affected by different treatments. Maximum plant height viz. (26.12cm), (50.35cm), (53.60cm), number of leaves per plant (10.40), (17.95), (19.45), leaf length (13.25cm), (50.55cm), (52.17cm), the leaf width (5.60cm), (19.30cm), (21.80cm) and maximum plant spread (34.05cm), (57.60cm), (70.85cm) respectively at 30, 60 days after transplanting and at harvesting stage were observed in treatment T2 (Vermicompost 100% @8 t/ha) and minimum value was recorded under control (T0). Yield and yield contributing traits viz., days taken to first head initiation (52.97 days), days taken to head maturity (76.25 days) in T2 (Vermicompost 100% @8 t/ha) whereas maximum days to first head initiation (58.00) and maximum days to head maturity for harvesting (80.00) was observed at harvesting in T0 (control) respectively. The Stalk length (19.60cm), Stalk diameter (3.83cm), head length (8.10cm), head width (12.75cm), head diameter (13.85cm), yield kg/plant (0.500kg), yield kg/plot (10.00kg), yield q/ha (185.18q) while in quality parameters highest Total soluble solids (8.65°Brix), Vitamin C (89.23), Total sugar (4.07%), Reducing sugar (3.25%), non-reducing sugar (0.77%), at harvesting stage were observed highest with treatment T2 (Vermicompost 100% @8 t/ha). The challenges in organic vegetable production are more due to low production but continue application of organic manure and biofertilizers the production is increases. Observing the results it can be stated that the using of Vermicompost plants gave better growth, yield and quality contributing characters of broccoli in contemporary with other treatments.','Broccoli, Organic manure, Bio-fertilizers, Quality and traits','The overall results obtained from the present investigation clearly revealed that among various combinations of organic manures and bio-fertilizers, the treatmentT2(Vermicompost 100% @8 t/ha)observed growth parameters like- plant height (cm), number of leaves/plants, leaf length (cm), leaf width (cm) and plant spread (cm) highest and the maximum weight of head with guard leaves (1273.09gm), weight of head without guard leaves (485.57gm), yield kg/plant (0.500kg), yield kg/plot (10.00kg), yield q/ha (185.18q) at harvesting was observed. The quality parameters Total soluble solids (8.65°Brix), Vitamin C (89.23), Total sugar (4.07%), Reducing sugar (3.25%), non-reducing sugar (0.77%), at harvesting stage were also recorded highest with treatment T2 (Vermicompost 100% @8 t/ha). These results conformity with finding of Kumar et al. (2013); Meena et al. (2017); Lodhi et al. (2017); Mohanta et al. (2018). Hence, soil application Vermicompost 100% @8 t/ha was found to be the best for obtaining the highest growth, yield (185.18q/ha) as well as quality of broccoli in the condition of Kanpur Uttar Pradesh. Complete organic production technology for broccoli is may be developed for better production and human health because chemically produced vegetables is more harmful.','-','Durgesh Kumar, R. B. Singh, Virendra Kumar, Arun Kumar Verma and Vinay Kumar Maurya (2023). Effect of Organic Manures and Biofertilizers on Growth Yield and Quality of Broccoli. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 15(9): 635-639.'),(7490,'165','Character Association studies on Foliar Disease Resistance with Yield and Yield Attributing Traits in Groundnut (Arachis hypogaea L.)','Girish Kumar Killada, Srividhya Akkareddy, Sreevalli Devi Muga, Arunasri Pinagari, Sree Vidya Gundrathi and Jashuva Paul Pesaleddula ','Character-Association-studies-on-Foliar-Disease-Resistance-with-Yield-and-Yield-Attributing-Traits-in-Groundnut-(Arachis-hypogaea-L.)-Girish-Kumar-Killada-110.pdf','',1,'Groundnut (Arachis hypogaea L.) is an important oil seed crop being adversely affected by two foliar fungal diseases viz., late leaf spot and rust. The objective of this study is to ascertain the association of these foliar diseases with yield and yield component traits. Phenotypic and genotypic correlations revealed significant negative association of both these diseases with major yield attributing traits like matured pods plant-1, hundred kernel weight, sound matured kernel percentage and pod yield plant-1, which results in high yield losses. Hence, it is concluded that loss of photosynthetic area due to foliar diseases made clear reduction in yield components, and development of disease tolerant varieties can mitigate the problem besides reducing cost of cultivation to farmers.','Groundnut, Foliar fungal diseases, Late leaf spot, Rust, Correlation','Both the foliar fungal diseases viz., LLS and rust have adverse effects on yield and yield attributing traits like number of pod yield plant-1, matured pods plant-1, hundred kernel weight and sound matured kernel percentage (%). Hence advanced breeding lines with low disease severity scores for LLS and rust along with more number of matured pods plant-1, maximum hundred pod and kernel weights, maximum shelling and sound matured kernel percentage should be given importance while selection and further advancement as it maximizes the yielding ability of the selected lines.','-','Girish Kumar Killada, Srividhya Akkareddy, Sreevalli Devi Muga, Arunasri Pinagari, Sree Vidya Gundrathi and Jashuva Paul Pesaleddula (2023). Character Association studies on Foliar Disease Resistance with Yield and Yield Attributing Traits in Groundnut (Arachis hypogaea L.). Biological Forum – An International Journal, 15(9): 640-643.'),(7491,'165','Comparative Impact Assessment of Diverse Farmers Producers Organizations (FPOs) in Bihar: An Inter-FPO Variation Analysis using Post Hoc Tukey\'s HSD Test','Mohit Kumar Gupta, Sudhanand Prasad Lal, Satya Prakash and Gyan Shukla','Comparative Impact Assessment of Diverse Farmers Producers Organizations (FPOs) in Bihar An Inter-FPO Variation Analysis using Post Hoc Tukeys HSD Test-Sudhanand Prasad Lal-111.pdf','',1,'Farmers are principal members of Farmers Producers Organizations (FPOs), a specific class of POs that pact with the production, marketing, and value addition of agricultural products. The primary mission of FPO is to mobilize farmers into member-owned producer companies for enhancing the negotiation power of marginal and small farmers through developing a judicious economy of scale at farm gate. It is an important tool for shifting the focus of farmer from mere production to marketing of produce i.e., transforming agriculture to agri-business management (ABM) and to realise farmers that ‘agriculture is more than just cows and plows’. The study was performed in the Samastipur and Muzaffarpur district of Bihar state with an objective to analyse the impact of Farmer Producer Organisations (FPOs) on its member farmers. 5 FPOs were selected purposely since each FPO deal with different agricultural commodity. A total of 250 members (having at least 5 years of experiences in FPOs) were randomly selected for the study from each five FPOs at the rate of 50. The main challenge in the study was to compare the impact of all 5 FPOs together through suitable statistical method. This comparison of impact was analysed through Post Hoc Tukey’s Honestly Significant Difference (HSD) test. The results concluded that Samarpan Jeevika Mahila Kisan Producer Company Limited ( =0.7470) was the most impactful FPO trailed by Jan Nayak Farmer producer company limited ( =0.7465), Pusa Seed Producer Company Limited ( =0.6291), Tirhut Honey Farmers Producer Company Limited ( =0.6201) and Maurya Farmer Producer Company Limited ( =0.5897). Subsequently, overall mean impact of FPOs was =0.6664. Hypothesis testing was done though Post Hoc Tukey’s Honestly Significant Difference test. From Tukey’s HSD test it was inferred that when Maurya Farmer Producer Company Limited (4) was chosen as a reference category then it has maximum number of asterisk and significant difference with all 4 FPOs i.e. significant at 1% level. From this it can be deducted that Maurya Farmer Producer Company Limited was the least impactful FPO among all 5 selected FPOs for the study. ','Agri-business management, economy of scale, FPO, farmer producer organization, honestly significant difference (HSD), Impact Assessment, Post Hoc test','In India, where 86.2% of farmers grapple with marginal land holdings, the government, inspired by economist Y. K. Alagh\'s committee, introduced Farmer Producer Companies (FPCs) to address challenges from production to marketing. For this five FPCs of Samastipur and Muzaffarpur districts in Bihar were investigated. Findings of the study, brought by using SPSS software, revealed that Samarpan Jeevika had the highest impact, with Maurya Farmer Producer Company Limited being the least impactful among them. The overall mean impact of FPOs was =0.6664. This concise study underscores the significant role of FPCs in the agricultural landscape, aiming to empower small and marginal farmers for sustainable development. ','-','Mohit Kumar Gupta, Sudhanand Prasad Lal, Satya Prakash and Gyan Shukla (2023). Comparative Impact Assessment of Diverse Farmers Producers Organizations (FPOs) in Bihar: An Inter-FPO Variation Analysis using Post Hoc Tukey\'s HSD Test. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 15(9): 644-648.'),(7492,'165','Innovative Plant Disease Monitoring Technologies','Prashanth Kumar A.','A-Review-on-Plant-Pathogen-Interactions-Prashanth-Kumar-A-122.pdf','',4,'The prevalence of plant diseases has significantly expanded as a result of human activities. Currently, the presence of pathogens in food results in a decrease in crop productivity, compromised product quality, diminished economic worth, and reduced financial gains. Therefore, the focus in plant pathology has shifted towards the importance of early detection and the development of diagnostic methods that are fast, accurate, and cost-effective. This emphasis is particularly relevant for emerging diseases or challenging infections that are transmitted by asymptomatic individuals exhibiting minor first signs, making them difficult to effectively manage. The utilization of cutting-edge tools designed for field usage is emerging as a crucial area of focus for diagnostic laboratories operating in a globalized market that is highly responsive to epidemics. This emphasis on developing instruments and methods that are suitable for operational conditions aims to ensure their effectiveness and practicality. The inclusion of portable systems and Internet of Things (IoT) connectivity plays a vital role in the overall design of this architecture. In this paper, we examine diagnostic approaches in agriculture that are based on nanotechnology, as well as explore emerging perspectives on the utilization of information and communication technology (ICT) in the agricultural sector. These advancements have the potential to enhance agricultural and rural development, while also revolutionizing the approach to combating phytopathogens through proactive measures.','Diseases, early detection, pathogens and nanotechnology','The examination of current plant disease detection technologies and the exploration of novel ways for symptom identification and pathogen prevention have been undertaken. In addition, we conducted an examination of advancements in sensor technology, microfluidics, wearable sensing devices, and Internet of Things (IoT) advances. The integration of bio-sensing platforms with electronic readers embedded into smartphones is creating new opportunities (Zarei et al., 2017). The integration of flexible sensors that resemble human skin with wireless communication technologies to enable real-time monitoring of plants is a concept that elicits interest. In contrast, the utilization of sensing and robotics technologies has the potential to develop novel analysis platforms known as \"lab-on-a-drone.\" These platforms provide swift in-flight assays while being connected to smartphones, hence eliminating the need for sample collection and analysis time. Furthermore, they have the capability to support emergency response efforts, agricultural bio-surveillance, and veterinary field care. The utilization of a quadcopter drone designed for consumer use, equipped with smartphone connectivity, for the purpose of conducting nucleic acid tests in field settings. In a study conducted by Priye et al. (2016), Staphylococcus aureus and phage DNA targets were rapidly transported by flight within a time frame of less than 20 minutes. Smartphone technology has the potential to enhance the precision, intelligence, and portability of diagnostic systems (Mendes et al., 2020; Pongnumkul et al., 2015), hence facilitating global collaboration between farmers and institutions in combating plant diseases through the utilization of high-resolution imagery and advanced computational capabilities. These many technologies have the capability to interact with one another, thereby offering novel avenues for effectively and intuitively combating plant diseases and preventing their dissemination.','-','Prashanth Kumar A. (2023). Innovative Plant Disease Monitoring Technologies. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 15(9): 649-659.'),(7493,'165','Correlation and Path Analysis for Grain Yield and its component Traits in Finger Millet (Eleusine coracana L.)','Ujjaval Patel, Harshal E. Patil and Purnima Ray','A-Review-on-Plant-Pathogen-Interactions-Prashanth-Kumar-A-122.pdf','',4,'Finger millet is famine reserve crop and lacks high yielding varieties. The current investigation for correlation and path analysis in finger millet was done using 101 genotypes and sixteen parameters. Grain yield per plant was found to be highly significant and positively correlated with days to 50 % flowering, plant height, main ear head length, finger width, finger length, 1000 seed weight, fodder yield per plant, harvest index, calcium content and iron content. Direct positive selection for such characters would be effective for improving grain yield per plant. Path coefficient analysis revealed that for improving yield in finger millet, weightage in selection should be given to harvest index, fodder yield per plant, fingers per earhead, finger length, iron content and calcium content. Selecting for above traits in segregating generations can result in high yielding varieties.','Correlation, Path analysis, Grain yield, Direct and indirect effect','All in all, according to correlation studies, selection practiced for days to 50 % flowering, plant height (cm), main ear head length (cm), finger width (cm), finger length (cm), 1000 seed weight (g), fodder yield per plant (g), harvest index (%), calcium content (mg/100g) and iron content (mg/100g), as they are highly correlated at both genotypic and phenotypic levels, would automatically result in the improvement of grain yield even though direct selection for improvement had not been made for the yield character.\r\nIn the present study, overall picture of path coefficient analysis revealed that for improving yield in finger millet, weightage in selection should be given to harvest index (%), fodder yield per plant (g), fingers per earhead, finger length (cm), iron content (mg/100g) and calcium content (mg/100g). Selecting such traits would directly or indirectly contribute in the improvement or increase in grain yielding ability as these traits were highly correlated and had high direct effect on yield which would allow simultaneous improvement.\r\n','-','Ujjaval Patel, Harshal E. Patil and Purnima Ray (2023). Correlation and Path Analysis for Grain Yield and its component Traits in Finger Millet (Eleusine coracana L.). Biological Forum – An International Journal, 15(9): 660-664.'),(7494,'165','Innovative Plant Disease Monitoring Technologies','Prashanth Kumar A.','Innovative-Plant-Disease-Monitoring-Technologies-Prashanth-Kumar-A-112.pdf','',1,'The prevalence of plant diseases has significantly expanded as a result of human activities. Currently, the presence of pathogens in food results in a decrease in crop productivity, compromised product quality, diminished economic worth, and reduced financial gains. Therefore, the focus in plant pathology has shifted towards the importance of early detection and the development of diagnostic methods that are fast, accurate, and cost-effective. This emphasis is particularly relevant for emerging diseases or challenging infections that are transmitted by asymptomatic individuals exhibiting minor first signs, making them difficult to effectively manage. The utilization of cutting-edge tools designed for field usage is emerging as a crucial area of focus for diagnostic laboratories operating in a globalized market that is highly responsive to epidemics. This emphasis on developing instruments and methods that are suitable for operational conditions aims to ensure their effectiveness and practicality. The inclusion of portable systems and Internet of Things (IoT) connectivity plays a vital role in the overall design of this architecture. In this paper, we examine diagnostic approaches in agriculture that are based on nanotechnology, as well as explore emerging perspectives on the utilization of information and communication technology (ICT) in the agricultural sector. These advancements have the potential to enhance agricultural and rural development, while also revolutionizing the approach to combating phytopathogens through proactive measures.','Diseases, early detection, pathogens and nanotechnology','The examination of current plant disease detection technologies and the exploration of novel ways for symptom identification and pathogen prevention have been undertaken. In addition, we conducted an examination of advancements in sensor technology, microfluidics, wearable sensing devices, and Internet of Things (IoT) advances. The integration of bio-sensing platforms with electronic readers embedded into smartphones is creating new opportunities (Zarei et al., 2017). The integration of flexible sensors that resemble human skin with wireless communication technologies to enable real-time monitoring of plants is a concept that elicits interest. In contrast, the utilization of sensing and robotics technologies has the potential to develop novel analysis platforms known as \"lab-on-a-drone.\" These platforms provide swift in-flight assays while being connected to smartphones, hence eliminating the need for sample collection and analysis time. Furthermore, they have the capability to support emergency response efforts, agricultural bio-surveillance, and veterinary field care. The utilization of a quadcopter drone designed for consumer use, equipped with smartphone connectivity, for the purpose of conducting nucleic acid tests in field settings. In a study conducted by Priye et al. (2016), Staphylococcus aureus and phage DNA targets were rapidly transported by flight within a time frame of less than 20 minutes. Smartphone technology has the potential to enhance the precision, intelligence, and portability of diagnostic systems (Mendes et al., 2020; Pongnumkul et al., 2015), hence facilitating global collaboration between farmers and institutions in combating plant diseases through the utilization of high-resolution imagery and advanced computational capabilities. These many technologies have the capability to interact with one another, thereby offering novel avenues for effectively and intuitively combating plant diseases and preventing their dissemination.','-','Prashanth Kumar A. (2023). Innovative Plant Disease Monitoring Technologies. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 15(9): 649-659.'),(7495,'165','Correlation and Path Analysis for Grain Yield and its component Traits in Finger Millet (Eleusine coracana L.)','Ujjaval Patel, Harshal E. Patil and Purnima Ray','Correlation-and-Path-Analysis-for-Grain-Yield-and-its-component-Traits-in-Finger-Millet-(Eleusine-coracana-L.)-Ujjaval-Patel-113-6714-Ujjaval-Patel-113.pdf','',1,'Finger millet is famine reserve crop and lacks high yielding varieties. The current investigation for correlation and path analysis in finger millet was done using 101 genotypes and sixteen parameters. Grain yield per plant was found to be highly significant and positively correlated with days to 50 % flowering, plant height, main ear head length, finger width, finger length, 1000 seed weight, fodder yield per plant, harvest index, calcium content and iron content. Direct positive selection for such characters would be effective for improving grain yield per plant. Path coefficient analysis revealed that for improving yield in finger millet, weightage in selection should be given to harvest index, fodder yield per plant, fingers per earhead, finger length, iron content and calcium content. Selecting for above traits in segregating generations can result in high yielding varieties.','Correlation, Path analysis, Grain yield, Direct and indirect effect','All in all, according to correlation studies, selection practiced for days to 50 % flowering, plant height (cm), main ear head length (cm), finger width (cm), finger length (cm), 1000 seed weight (g), fodder yield per plant (g), harvest index (%), calcium content (mg/100g) and iron content (mg/100g), as they are highly correlated at both genotypic and phenotypic levels, would automatically result in the improvement of grain yield even though direct selection for improvement had not been made for the yield character.\r\nIn the present study, overall picture of path coefficient analysis revealed that for improving yield in finger millet, weightage in selection should be given to harvest index (%), fodder yield per plant (g), fingers per earhead, finger length (cm), iron content (mg/100g) and calcium content (mg/100g). Selecting such traits would directly or indirectly contribute in the improvement or increase in grain yielding ability as these traits were highly correlated and had high direct effect on yield which would allow simultaneous improvement.\r\n','-','Ujjaval Patel, Harshal E. Patil and Purnima Ray (2023). Correlation and Path Analysis for Grain Yield and its component Traits in Finger Millet (Eleusine coracana L.). Biological Forum – An International Journal, 15(9): 660-664.'),(7496,'150','A Review on Plant-Pathogen Interactions','Prashanth Kumar A.','A-Review-on-Plant-Pathogen-Interactions-Prashanth-Kumar-A-122.pdf','',1,'Plants evolved nucleotide-binding domains (NLRs) that recognized effectors of pathogens, which resulted in a second layer of immune effector-triggered immunity (ETI). Biotrophic pathogens manipulate host physiological activities to obtain nutrients from living host cells and tissues, and hemibiotrophic pathogens secrete effectors that suppress host immunity and re-program host physiology to favor pathogen colonization. Plants have membrane-lined pores called plasmodesmata, which connect adjacent cells and facilitate symplast communication. Pathogenic microorganisms disrupt the actin cytoskeleton in plant cells and create hydrophobic spaces between pathogen-host plants to grow in the air. Plant PRR recognizes degraded fragments of bacteria and plant cell walls as PAMPs or DAMPs to trigger immunity. Pathogens use various effectors to suppress PAMP-triggered immunity, including protecting the mycelium from degradation by plant chitinases. Plants secrete antimicrobial proteins and compounds to fight infection by pathogens, but effector proteins secreted by pathogens degrades these compounds. Autophagy is an essential part of plant immunity to different pathogens. The black cob pathogen Sporisorium reilianum and the pathogen may act differently, suggesting that the Tin2 of U. maydis may be newly functionalized. Phytophthora sojae alters protein localization in the host plant cytosol to produce functional abnormalities and pathogenic effects. Microbial manipulation of the host may be achieved by directly targeting ER stress regulators, restricting defense-related vesicle transport as a virulence factor, and inhibiting the interaction between NPR1 and TGA transcription factors, reducing PR gene expression. Some pathogens inhibit the host\'s RNA silencing process to promote infection, and others neutralize or inhibit ROS production. Plants detect pathogens using their NLR and PRR, and kill cells with their effectors. Effectors are essential elements of plant-pathogen interactions. Although many effectors have been identified and characterized, there are likely still numerous unknown effectors lurking beneath the surface, waiting to be discovered.','Effectors, Plasmodesmata, symplast, Autophagy and hydrophobic spaces','Effectors are essential elements of plant-pathogen interactions. They exert their pathogenic effects primarily by targeting R proteins in the plant. By understanding the intricate interplay between effectors and R proteins, we can uncover new avenues for developing effective strategies to protect plants from devastating diseases. Although current research on effectors is quite prolific, there is still much to uncover about their mechanisms of action. One notable model in this field is the iceberg model proposed by Thordal-Christensen (Thordal- Christensen et al., 2020). This model suggests that while many effectors have been identified and characterized, there are likely still numerous unknown effectors lurking beneath the surface, waiting to be discovered. The iceberg model serves as a reminder that our current understanding of effectors is only the tip of the iceberg, and there is still much more to explore and unravel in this fascinating area of research. By continuing to investigate effectors and their mechanisms of action, scientists can further expand our knowledge and potentially uncover new therapeutic targets or strategies for combating diseases caused by pathogenic effectors.','-','Prashanth Kumar A. (2023). A Review on Plant-Pathogen Interactions. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 15(3): 784-792.'),(7497,'164','Plant Pathogen Detection Techniques: New Trends','Prashanth Kumar A.','Plant-Pathogen-Detection-Techniques-New-Trends-Prashanth-Kumar-A-87.pdf','',1,'Plant infections are accountable for a significant proportion, around 40%, of the yearly decline in commercially valuable crops. This results in a substantial economic burden and has notable socio-ecological consequences. The primary objective of integrated pest management (IPM) is to mitigate the ecological consequences associated with conventional disease management approaches. This is achieved by the implementation of biological control methods and cultivation techniques that effectively minimize the occurrence of diseases or their associated symptoms. The present and developing techniques for detecting plant pathogens encompass cultivation-based, immunological, and nucleic acid-based approaches. Cultivation-based techniques encompass the deliberate cultivation and subsequent isolation of microorganisms using growth media that are either selective or semi-selective in nature. The aforementioned techniques are characterized by their simplicity, reliability, and lack of dependence on advanced technological apparatus. Nevertheless, these methods are deemed suboptimal as a result of their significant plate count anomaly, time-intensive procedures, and limited capability to identify viral plant diseases. Plant pathogens can be detected utilizing immunological techniques that involve the use of particular antibodies conjugated with enzymes, fluorophores, or nanoparticles. Nevertheless, it is important to acknowledge that these methodologies do possess several limitations, including the suboptimal chemical and physical stability of antibodies, the requirement for refrigeration during storage, and the challenges associated with generating new antibodies. Lateral flow immunoassays (LFIA) are commonly employed in the field of plant pathology for the purpose of detecting plant pathogens. However, it is important to note that these assays possess a restricted capacity for sample loading and are exclusively applicable to liquid samples. The utilization of aptamers as substitutes for antibodies in enzyme-linked apta-sorbent assays and lateral flow devices is feasible; nevertheless, it is important to note that the selectivity and affinity of aptamers can be affected by the circumstances of the sample. Conventional polymerase chain reaction (PCR) is a highly sensitive methodology; yet, it is not without limitations. These include susceptibility to PCR inhibitors, the necessity for a controlled laboratory setting, and an elevated potential for false-positive outcomes. A number of polymerase chain reaction (PCR) variants have been devised with the aim of enhancing the utility of PCR in the realm of plant pathogen identification. Isothermal nucleic acid amplification techniques present a valuable alternative to polymerase chain reaction (PCR)-based approaches. These techniques include loop-mediated isothermal amplification (LAMP), recombinase polymerase amplification (RPA), hybridization arrays, CRISPR-Cas-based molecular tools, and nucleic acid sequencing methods. Biosensors are intricate instruments that integrate a biorecognition component with a physicochemical transducer, enabling precise and timely identification of volatile organic compounds (VOCs) associated with plant diseases.','Pathogens, enzymes, amplification, antibodies, PCR and biosensors','Plant diseases are responsible for causing a significant reduction in crop output, amounting to around 40% annually in economically significant crops. Consequently, the timely identification of these pathogens is of utmost importance for the implementation of integrated pest management strategies, the promotion of sustainable agricultural practices, and the reduction of reliance on chemical pesticides. Remote sensing technologies have the potential to aid in the identification and localization of stress conditions prior to the manifestation of apparent illness signs. The guidelines established by the National Plant Protection Organization (NPPO) encompass the implementation of PM7 Diagnostic Protocols for Regulated Pests. However, it is important to acknowledge that these protocols are subject to certain constraints, such as the requirement for specialized staff, the associated high costs, and the extended processing times involved. Various techniques, such as cultivation-based, immunological, PCR-based, isothermal amplification, hybridization-based, and next-generation sequencing, are now being developed to overcome these constraints. The selection of an optimal detection method is contingent upon various factors, including the specific pathogen being targeted, the allocated budget, the nature of the sample matrix, and the technological resources that are at one\'s disposal.','-','Prashanth Kumar A. (2023). Plant Pathogen Detection Techniques: New Trends. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 15(8a): 531-540.'),(7498,'165','Correlational Study on the Relationship between Plant Growth, Seed Yield and Quality Related Traits in Palak under Bundelkhand Region','Imamuddin Shah, A.C. Mishra, R.K. Singh, Neelima Rawat, Hitaishi Kuriyal, Vinay Kumar, Raju Ratan Yadav and Kuldeep','Correlational-Study-on-the-Relationship-between-Plant-Growth,-Seed-Yield-and-Quality-Related-Traits-in-Palak-under-Bundelkhand-Region-AC-Mishra-114.pdf','',1,'An experiment was conducted at the Vegetable Research Farm of the College of Horticulture, BUAT, Banda during the Rabi (October-March) season of 2020-21 to determine the relationship between the characteristics affecting plant growth, seed yield and quality in Palak. Bundelkhand is a drought-prone region with water scarcity and high temperatures, water tankers and tanks were used for irrigation. The experiment used a Factorial Randomize Block Design with two variables: row spacings (S) and micronutrient treatments (M). The first factor, row spacings, included 30 × 10 cm (S1), 40 × 10 cm (S2), and 50×10 cm (S3) treatments, while the second factor, micronutrient application, included four treatments: no micronutrients (M0), Zink Sulphate Monohydrate @ 20kg/ha (M1), Disodium Octaborate Tetrahydrate@ 20kg/ha (M2) and an equal quantity of each Zink Sulphate Monohydrate, Disodium Octaborate Tetrahydrate with a commercial formulation containing Zn, Fe, Cu and Mn @10kg/ha (M3) in variety of Palak (All Green). The treatments under both the factors were applied in all possible combinations in three replications. Correlation coefficient values indicated that seed yield showed either non-significant positive or negative correlation with all the parameters of plant growth, seed yield and seed quality. In contrast, the major seed quality parameter i.e., germination percentage displayed significant positive correlation with most of the traits viz., plant height, dry weight of plants, days to 50% flowering, number of spikes per plant, spikelet length, spike length, 100 seed weight, seedling dry weight, seedling root length, seedling shoot length, total seedling length, seedling vigour index-I and seedling vigour index-II.','Palak, Correlation, Micronutrients, Spacings, Yield.','Correlation coefficient values indicated that seed yield showed either non-significant positive or negative correlation with all the parameters of plant growth, seed yield and seed quality. Contrarily, the principal seed quality parameter i.e., germination percentage exhibited significant positive correlation with most of characters viz., plant height, dry weight of plants, days to 50% flowering, number of spikes per plant, spikelet length, spike length, 100 seed weight, seedling dry weight, seedling root length, seedling shoot length, total seedling length, seedling vigour index-I and seedling vigour index-II.','-','Imamuddin Shah, A.C. Mishra, R.K. Singh, Neelima Rawat, Hitaishi Kuriyal, Vinay Kumar, Raju Ratan Yadav and Kuldeep (2023). Correlational Study on the Relationship Between Plant Growth, Seed Yield and Quality Related Traits in Palak under Bundelkhand Region. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 15(9): 665-669.'),(7499,'167','New Records of Tailed Cellar Spider Crossopriza lyoni (Blackwall, 1867) (Arachnida: Araneae : Pholcidae) from Uttar Pradesh (India), with Systematic Account, Distribution and other Aspects','Akhlaq Husain and Hishmi Jamil Husain ','New-Records-of-Tailed-Cellar-Spider-Crossopriza-lyoni-(Blackwall,-1867)-(Arachnida-Araneae-Akhlaq-Husain-1.pdf','',1,'Present communication deals with new records of Crossopriza lyoni, the Tailed Cellar Spider, belonging to family Pholcidae under order Araneae and class Arachnida, from Azamgarh, Fatehpur Sikri and Noida (Uttar Pradesh, India) with systematic account, distribution, habitat, web, food & feeding, life-cycle, life-span, venom, self-defence and as being potential pest controllers.','New records, Crossopriza lyoni, Uttar Pradesh','-','-','-'),(7500,'167','Study on the Physico-chemical Characteristics of Bael Germplasms Collected from various Location of Madhya Pradesh, India','Rahul Dongre and Bharti Choudhary','Study-on-the-Physico-chemical-Characteristics-of-Bael-Germplasms-Collected-from-various-Location-of-Madhya-Pradesh,-India-Rahul-Dongre-2.pdf','',1,'Survey is very important for understanding the reasons behind physiological parameter and fruit variation in bael germplasm Survey was made for collection of different germplasm of Bael. It was studied during 2022-23 in the month May-June in various location of Jabalpur district under AICRP-AZF, Department of Horticulture, College of Agriculture, Jawaharlal Nehru Krishi Vishwa Vidyalaya, Jabalpur (M.P.) and analysis was done for studies the physico-chemical characteristics of collected Bael germplasms. Total twelve germplasms were selected and collected fully ripe Bael fruit, the germplasm code is JB-1 to JB -12. Among the 12 germplasm, JB-8 and JB-9 germplasm were having maximum fruit size, weight and fruit volume followed by JB-1, JB-6, and JB-7 and remaining germplasm was at par. Average Fruit weight is ranged from 142 g to 1450 g, fruit volume (82 to 1290 ml), fruit length (71.2 to 137.0 mm), fruit width (61.2 to 137.9 mm), pulp weight (70.3 to 1003.0 g), number of seed (50 to 105), seed weight (17 to 38 g), rind weight (75 to 328 g), rind thickness (2.4 to 4.8). The maximum fruit weight recorded in germplasm JB-8 (1450 g), fruit volume (1290 ml), shell weight (328g), pulp weight (958 g) and seed weight (41 g). Second best germplasm was JB-9 recorded 1178 g fruit weight, 925 ml fruit volume, 748 g pulp weight, medium seed weight 17g, seed number 78 and minimum number of locules i.e. 10. Highest TSS (°Brix) was found in germplasm JB-7 (46.3), JB-1 (44), JB-8 (43) respectively. Germplasm JB-7 observed recorded minimum acidity % (0.57) while in germplasm JB-9 have maximum acidity percent. ','Bael, Germplasm, survey and fruit','Survey is very important for understanding the reasons behind physiological parameter and fruit variation in bael germplasm is crucial for selecting and breeding improved varieties, optimizing cultivation practices, and ensuring post-harvest quality. By studying and manipulating these factors, researchers and farmers can work towards developing bael cultivars with desirable physiological parameters, improved fruit quality, and increased yield.\r\nAmong the 12 germplasm, the range of fruit weight from 142 g to 1450 g, fruit volume (82 to 1290 ml), fruit length (71.2 to 137.0 mm), fruit width (61.2 to 137.9 mm), pulp weight (70.3 to1003.0 g), number of seed (50 to 105), seed weight (17 to 38 g), rind weight (75 to 328 g), rind thickness (2.4 to 4.8). The maximum fruit weight, fruit volume, shell weight, pulp weight and seed weight was recorded in germplasm JB-8 followed by germplasm was JB-9 recorded. Highest TSS (°Brix) was found in germplasm JB-7. Germplasm B-7 observed recorded minimum acidity % (0.57) while in germplasm B-9 have maximum acidity percent. \r\n','-','-'),(7501,'167','Review an investigation of the effects of macro and micro nutrients on the production of high quality seed','Patra S.','Review-an-investigation-of-the-effects-of-macro-and-micro-nutrients-on-the-production-of-high-quality-seed-Sabyasachi-Patra-3.pdf','',1,'Seed is the basic input in agriculture. Higher agricultural productivity is primarily depend on quality seed. Quality seed is always maintained genetic purity, physical purity, seed health status and physiological quality. In this view, we have challenged for producing maximum quantity of quality seed with proper application of macro and micro nutrients. Requirements of macro and microelements are crucial for optimal development, growth, and ultimately the production of excellent seed in every crop. Crops must meet the same macro- and micro-nutrient requirements if they are to be produced as seed crops. In this regard, a review research was conducted to examine the effects of macro and micro elements on seed quality. According to the results of numerous studies, the macronutrients like nitrogen, phosphorus, potassium, sulphur, calcium, magnesium and micronutrients like boron, chloride, iron, manganese, molybdenum, zinc have a significant impact on seed quality, which in turn affects seed yield.','Macronutrients: micronutrients; seed germination, seed vigour','Having revised the overall picture on effect of macro and micronutrients on seed performance, it is clearly stated the impact and non impact portion at different stages of crop growth and development. Therefore, farmers and growers who are involved in seed production for harvesting quality seed, should be aware initially about the effect of macro and micro nutrients for applying good management practices.','-','-'),(7502,'165','Growth and Instability in Garlic Area, Production and Yield in Southern Rajasthan','Sarla Meena, Latika Sharma, S.S. Burark, G.L. Meena, H.K. Jain, L.N. Dashora and H. Singh ','Growth-and-Instability-in-Garlic-Area,-Production-and-Yield-in-Southern-Rajasthan-Sarla-Meena-115.pdf','',1,'Garlic (Allium sativum) is one of the important horticultural crop which belong to Alliaceae family and occupies important position in bulbous spice category after onion. It has medicinal and nutritive value and widely consumed bulbous spice crops. The present study is based on secondary data. The secondary data related to area, production and yield of garlic were collected to analyze compound annual growth rate of garlic from 2008-09 to 2020-21 from various sources. The performance of garlic was analyzed by calculating growth rate and instability index in area, production and yield of garlic crop. The results of present study revealed that the area and production of garlic crop were found positive growth rate but in case of yield, it’s positive and significant growth rate during this time period. The higher growth rate and instability was registered in case of production as compared to area and yield of garlic over the period of time. ','Compound growth rate, instability index, bulbous spices, area and production, positive, significant','In this perspective an analysis has been made to know the growth rates of area, production and yield of garlic. The secondary data related to area, production and yield of garlic were collected from various source to analyze compound annual growth rate of garlic from 2008-09 to 2020-21. The result of the study revealed that the area, production and yield of garlic witnessed positive growth rate in Pratapgarh district. The growth rate found negative and significant growth for yield (-2.02 per cent) as compared to area (2.12 per cent) and production (0.06 per cent) in Chittorgarh district. The growth rate in area and production were recorded positive but and for yield of garlic was found positive and significant growth in Southern Rajasthan. The highest instability reported in case of production as compared to area and yield of garlic over the period of time in Pratapgarh, Chittorgarh district and Southern Rajasthan. The reason of higher production are more use of higher yielding varieties of garlic by farmers, cultivation practices and price volatility in market.','-','Sarla Meena, Latika Sharma, S.S. Burark, G.L. Meena, H.K. Jain, L.N. Dashora and H. Singh (2023). Growth and Instability in Garlic Area, Production and Yield in Southern Rajasthan. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 15(9): 670-674.'),(7503,'148','Yield Attributes of Linseed as influenced by different Establishment Methods and Nitrogen Management in Rice- Linseed Cropping System','Pragyan Das and Bijay Kumar Mohapatra','Yield-Attributes-of-Linseed-as-influenced-by-different-Establishment-Methods-and-Nitrogen-Management-in-Rice--Linseed-Cropping-System-Pragyan-Das-115.pdf','',1,'Linseed is cultivated as paira crop in Odisha under residual moisture and minimal management practices which lead to lower productivity of the crop. A field experiment was conducted at Central Research Station, Odisha University of Agriculture and Technology, Bhubaneswar during rabi season of 2021. The experiment was laid out in a split-plot design with four replications comprising of five treatments viz., Soil Test Based Nitrogen Recommendation (STBNR) complete inorganic, Integrated Nutrient Management (INM) (50% organic* + 50% inorganic) *Organic= 1/3rd FYM+ 1/3rd poultry manure+ 1/3rd neem oil cake, Organic source (1/3rd FYM+ 1/3rd poultry manure+ 1/3rd neem oil cake), Soil Test Based Nitrogen Recommendation (STBNR)+ ZnSO4 @ 25 kg/ha and Integrated Nutrient Management (T2) + ZnSO4 @ 25 kg/ha in preceding rice crop along with two methods of crop establishment in linseed (Paira and conventional tillage) were allotted to the main plots and two nitrogen management practices in linseed (100% RDF and 50% N+ full PK) in the sub-plots. The soil was loamy sand, slightly acidic in reaction, medium in organic carbon, available P2O5 and K2O, and low in available nitrogen. The nitrogen management practices in rice influenced the yield attributes of linseed along with establishment methods and nitrogen management in linseed. The organic treatment in preceding rice crop influenced the most and paira cropping also proved to be superior as compared to conventional method.','Nitrogen, Linseed, Integrated Nutrient Management, RDN','Among all the nitrogen management practices in the preceding rice crop, organic treatment and INM+ZnSO4 influenced the yield attributes more effectively indicating the residual effect of the previous treatment on the succeeding crop under paira cropping along with 100% RDN.','-','Pragyan Das and Bijay Kumar Mohapatra (2023). Yield Attributes of Linseed as influenced by different Establishment Methods and Nitrogen Management in Rice- linseed Cropping System. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 15(1): 706-709.'),(7504,'165','Demographic Profile and Health Consciousness of Rural Women of Reproductive Age Group in Khammam District of Telangana State','K. Spandana Deepika, R. Geetha Reddy, M. Prasuna, B. Anila Kumari, D. Srinivasa Chary and W. Jessie Suneetha ','Demographic-Profile-and-Health-Consciousness-of-Rural-Women-of-Reproductive-Age-Group-in-Khammam-District-of-Telangana-State-K.-Spandana-Deepika-116.pdf','',1,'People who are health-conscious have a greater grasp of their own health, pay attention to individual health problems, and then adopt healthy measures to ensure their personal health. Health consciousness is a part of individual consciousness. To study the demographic profile characteristics of rural women and health consciousness of rural women. The study was conducted in rural areas i.e., Wyra and Enkoor mandals of Khammam district, Telangana state. The results of the study indicated that majority (52.50%) of the respondents belonged to young age followed by early middle age (32.50%) and 15.00 percent were in the late middle age category. Majority (22.50%) of the respondents were illiterates followed by high school education (20.63%), graduation & above (17.50%), college education (16.88%), middle school education (12.50%) and primary school education (10.00%). Majority (33.33%) of the respondents were agricultural labourers and 30.00 per cent were housewives, followed by other occupations. Majority (70.63%) of the respondents belonged to nuclear families followed by joint families (28.75%) and a meagre percentage belonged to extended families (0.62%). The respondents have an optimistic mindset towards their well-being and health, but they must be educated to take care of themselves regarding health consciousness. They have an optimistic mindset towards their well-being and health, but they must be educated to take care of themselves. Hence, there is a need to improve respondents\' attitudes and practices towards health. Respondents should be aware of and take care of their entire family, as well as their neighbourhood and kin. Anyone who wants to attain achievement throughout their life must be in a healthy state. Everyone searching for fulfilment in life needs to stay in a good state of health. Raising consciousness and altering attitudes in order to encourage a healthier lifestyle certainly will have an influence on the future happiness and well-being of rural women.','Health consciousness, Demographic, Rural, Women','The study conclude that the respondents were conscious about their health regarding their self-health awareness. The study emphasises the need for personal responsibility, and health motivation. After COVID -19 outbreak people become more conscious more health related issues, but they were not focussing on one’s own care towards health and concern for physical well-being. As a result, there is a need to improve respondents\' attitudes and practices towards health. Respondents should be aware of and take care of their entire family, as well as their neighbourhood and kin. Anyone who wants to attain achievement throughout their life must be in a healthy state. Everyone searching for fulfilment in life needs to stay in a good state of health. Raising consciousness and altering attitudes in order to encourage a healthier lifestyle certainly will have an influence on the future happiness and well-being of rural women. ','-','K. Spandana Deepika, R. Geetha Reddy, M. Prasuna, B. Anila Kumari, D. Srinivasa Chary and W. Jessie Suneetha (2023). Demographic Profile and Health Consciousness of Rural Women of Reproductive Age Group in Khammam District of Telangana State. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 15(9): 675-681.'),(7505,'165','Survey and Seasonal incidence of Pink Bollworm Pectinophora gossypiella (Sounders) in Bt Cotton Growing areas of North Gujarat','Dinesh K. Chaudhari, Bindu K. Panickar and M.K. Chandaragi ','Survey-and-Seasonal-incidence-of-Pink-Bollworm-Pectinophora-gossypiella-(Sounders)-in-Bt-Cotton-Growing-areas-of-North-Gujarat-Bindu-K-Panickar-117.pdf','',1,'To determine the extent of damage caused by pink bollworm at various stages of the cotton crop the survey was undertaken. In Bt cotton growing areas of Banaskantha district of North Gujarat. Among the villages surveyed for the presence of pink bollworm, all the nine villages of Deesa, Deodar and Kankrej talukas of Banaskantha district of North Gujarat consisting of semi arid climate, recorded its incidence during kharif 2019. The maximum flower, locule and boll damage were recorded at Raiya village of Deodar (16.53, 17.19 and 30.00 %) and minimum flower, locule and boll damage were recorded at Thervada village of Deesa (11.86, 12.12 and 19.20 %, respectively). Seasonal incidence of pink bollworm at Sardarkrushingar in Dantiwada taluka revealed that the infestation of the pest and its activity were observed from second week of September to fourth week of December. The rosette flower damage appeared from second week of September (2.32 %), while the larval population initiated from fourth week of September (1.2 larvae/10 unopened bolls). The flower damage and larval population were maximum (14.28 % and 7.8 larvae/10 unopened bolls) during the second week of November and fourth week of November, respectively. The opened boll damage ranged from 35.00 to 40.55 per cent and maximum (40.55 %) during 4th week of November, while the locule damage varied from 19.28 to 22.77 per cent and maximum (22.77 %) locule damage were observed during 4th week December. Correlation between larval population of pink bollworm and weather parameters indicated that significantly negative correlation with morning relative humidity and rainfall.','Survey, incidence, pink bollworm, cotton','The survey for pink bollworm in cotton growing areas revealed that lowest flower, locule and boll damage was recorded at Thervada village of Deesa (11.86, 12.12 and 19.20 %). Its seasonal incidence revealed the maximum flower damage and larval population (14.28 % and 7.8 larvae/10 unopened bolls) recorded during second week of November and fourth week of November. The opened boll damage was maximum (40.55 %) during 4th week of November and highest locule damage (22.77 %) was observed during 4th week December. Correlation studies between larval population and weather factors shown that significantly negative correlation with morning relative humidity and rainfall.','-','Dinesh K. Chaudhari, Bindu K. Panickar and M.K. Chandaragi (2023). Survey and Seasonal incidence of Pink Bollworm Pectinophora gossypiella (Sounders) in Bt Cotton Growing areas of North Gujarat. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 15(9): 682-686.'),(7506,'165','Nutritional Quality of Green Leafy Vegetable Enriched “Appalu” –A Popular Telangana Traditional Snack','Arrabothu Dharani, Janaki Srinath Puskuri, T. Kamalaja and K. Supriya ','Nutritional-Quality-of-Green-Leafy-Vegetable-Enriched-Appalu–A-Popular-Telangana-Traditional-Snack-Janaki-Srinath-Puskuri-118.pdf','',1,'Traditional foods, which are frequently connected to regional culture, are made locally using particular ingredients and rely on the skills and knowledge of the local people. A study was conducted to evaluate the nutritional quality of the popular Telangana snack “Appalu” (Fried flattened discs made with rice flour, ground nuts, pulses and spices) by enriching with dehydrated green leaf powders. These products were evaluated for proximates and minerals such as iron, zinc, sodium, potassium, calcium. Results showed that curry leaves enriched appalu (CGSO) has high amount of protein (16.41g/100g), crude fibre (2.41g/100g), iron (6.41mg/100g), calcium (310.5mg/100g), copper (1.38mg/100g) and zinc (1.92mg/100g) while fat, and ash content was highest in moringa leaves enriched appalu (MGSO) (26.42g/100g), (3.35g/100g) respectively. Sodium content is highest in ponnaganni enriched appalu (PGSO) (601.4mg/100g). There is statistically significant difference (p≤0.05) in proximate and mineral content between control appalu and all green leafy vegetable enriched appalu. It can be concluded that all the proximate composition and the mineral content was higher in the green leafy enriched appalu than the control appalu. Incorporating green leafy vegetable powders into appalu is a convenient method to combat micronutrient malnutrition.','Traditional foods, Snacking, Dehydrated green leaves, Micronutrient deficiency, Enrichment, Healthy snack','The protein, fat, ash, and crude fibre, and mineral content was significantly higher in green leafy enriched appalu compared to control appalu. The production of healthier foods is presently the main focus of food processing industry for nutritional security. On the basis of the present study, it may be concluded that appalu can be prepared with incorporation of green leafy vegetable powders to enhance nutrition. As appalu are already a popular snack so it would be convenient way to incorporate green leafy vegetables with complete consumer acceptability. On the basis of the present study it can be concluded that green leafy vegetables has great scope in the field of value added recipes development and commercialization. ','-','Arrabothu Dharani, Janaki Srinath Puskuri, T. Kamalaja and K. Supriya (2023). Nutritional Quality of Green Leafy Vegetable Enriched “Appalu” –A Popular Telangana Traditional Snack. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 15(9): 687-692.'),(7507,'165','Biochemical Responses of Mulberry Varieties V1 and G4 to Different Spacing Conditions','Vijay S., Susikaran S., Shandeep S.G., Haran M.S.R., Deeikshana T. and Abinaya C. ','Biochemical-Responses-of-Mulberry-Varieties-V1-and-G4-to-Different-Spacing-Conditions-Susikaran-S-119.pdf','',1,'Mulberry plants compete with one another for few resources like air, light, soil moisture, and nutrients as a result of the lack of available space. The study focused on assessing the impact of various spacing configurations on biochemical parameters in two tree-type mulberry varieties, V1 and G4. Among the biochemical parameters measured, including chlorophyll-a (1.96 mg g-1), chlorophyll b (0.81 mg g-1), total chlorophyll (1.77 mg g-1), carotenoids (0.80 mg g-1), crude protein (23.16%), total sugars (15.61%), moisture content (78.34%), moisture retention capacity (64.14%), soluble protein(28.49 mg g-1), total carbohydrate (19.84 mg g-1), and macronutrients such as nitrogen (4.16%), phosphorus (0.32%), and potassium (1.77%), it was consistently observed that the 6ft × 6ft spacing for the V1 variety yielded the highest values compared to the other spacing configurations used for the G4 variety. These results suggest that the cultivation of tree-type mulberries is particularly well-suited to a spacing of 6\' × 6\'.','Biochemical, Chlorophyll Spacing, Mulberry, Moisture','According to the findings of this study, among the various spacing, 6ft x 6ft was recorded higher in all the biochemical parameters. These findings indicate that various yield-related factors performed more favourably in the 6ft × 6ft spacing plantation systems compared to narrower spacing alternatives. This phenomenon may be attributed to the spacing\'s influence, wherein wider spacing facilitates more robust growth by reducing competition for nutrients and space among the plants. Furthermore, the moisture content was found to be highest in the 6ft × 6ft spacing arrangement. This can likely be attributed to the ample spacing allowing for improved aeration and nutrient uptake, ultimately leading to higher moisture retention in the mulberry leaves.','-','Vijay S., Susikaran S., Shandeep S.G., Haran M.S.R., Deeikshana T. and Abinaya C. (2023). Biochemical Responses of Mulberry Varieties V1 and G4 to Different Spacing Conditions.. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 15(9): 693-697.'),(7508,'165','Evaluation of Heterotic Potential of Bread Wheat Hybrids under Very Late Sown Conditions','Anita Burdak and Ved Prakash','Evaluation-of-Heterotic-Potential-of-Bread-Wheat-Hybrids-under-Very-Late-Sown-Conditions-Anita-Burdak-120.pdf','',1,'The objective of the current study was to determine heterotic potential of various yield and other contributing traits in a 10 × 10 diallel set of different bread wheat genotypes. The experiment was conducted in randomized block design with three replications during Rabi 2021-22. Results of this research revealed that significant differences observed among the genotypes, parents and generation for all studied traits. Some crosses such as Raj 3765 × PBW 343, Raj 3077 × Raj 3765 and PBW 343 × WH 1021 showed maximum heterosis and PBW 343 × HD 2967, Raj 4079 × UP 2425 and PBW 343 × UP 2425 revealed maximum heterobeltiosis for grain yield and most of other contributing traits. These crosses recognized as desirable which may produce the maximum level of transgressive segregants and can be used for yield potential in bread wheat.','Heterosis, diallel crossing, yield potential, bread wheat','The significant differences observed among the genotypes, parents and generation for all studied traits, revealed that characters displayed the presence of sufficient genetic diversity among the selected parents and these parents have worth to be evaluated for further wheat breeding programs. Highest inbreeding depression for grain yield were observed in DBW 17 × HD 2967, HD 3059 × WH 1021 and HD 2967 × UP 2425, indicating F2 plants produced more grain yield as compared to F1 hybrids of bread wheat. For grain yield/plant the promising crosses identified on the basis of heterosis and heterobeltiosis (heterosis over better parent) were PBW 343 × HD 2967, Raj 4079 × UP 2425, PBW 343 × UP 2425, Raj 3765 × PBW 343, Raj 3077 × Raj 3765 and PBW 343 × WH 1021. These crosses have been proposed to be advantageous for wheat genotypes improvement that can produce the maximum level of transgressive segregants and may be used in hybrid development of wheat for yield potential.','-','Anita Burdak and Ved Prakash (2023). Evaluation of Heterotic Potential of Bread Wheat Hybrids under Very Late Sown Conditions. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 15(9): 698-706.'),(7509,'165','In silico Study of Interaction Between Phytate and Seed Storage Proteins (SSPs) of Indian Mustard','Pant P., Garg S., Nain P. and Punetha H. ','In-silico-Study-of-Interaction-Between-Phytate-and-Seed-Storage-Proteins-(SSPs)-of-Indian-Mustard-Shivanshu-Garg-121.pdf','',1,'The current study investigates the interactions between phytate and seed storage proteins found in Indian mustard seeds using an in silico method. Phytic acid is generally regarded as an undesirable constituent in diets and is found in substantial concentrations in mustard seeds. Although it is well known to contribute in mineral/protein deficiencies, it may also have potential physiological advantages. Interactions between biopolymers like proteins, phytic acid, and metal ions determine the negative and positive effects of this molecule. An objective comprehension of these interactions and how they impact the foods themselves is crucial in light of the growing market for plant-based diets in order to effectively manage and utilize phytates obtained from plants as well as to increase the accessibility of proteins from plant sources. In this study, the visualization of the interaction between napin and phytate produced lowest binding energy i.e., 14.35 Kcal/mol and involved 3 H-bond interactions, while between cruciferin and phytate produced lowest binding energy i.e., 13.99 Kcal/mol and involved 5 H-bond interactions. The findings of this study offer important insight into these IP6-related interactions, which shall aid in formulating strategies for using these plant-derived bioactive molecules for animal and human welfare. The incorporation of synthetic genes is ideal to improve bioavailability of protein fractions in diet, for which the in silico interactions are needed to be studied in greater detail, as like here. The candidate gene expression and thus silencing are yet to be achieved in this aspect of study related to Indian mustard.','Cruciferin, Indian mustard, Molecular docking, Napin, Phytate, Seed Storage Proteins','As is already known, phytic acid has detrimental effects in the body by causing deficiency of minerals. However, it provides potential benefits by inhibiting oxidation and other unfavorable reactions that require metal ions. The interactions between IP6, metal ions, and biopolymers are what ultimately determine both the advantageous and detrimental consequences of phytic acid in the body. From the results obtained, it is clear that phytate is a highly reactive ligand with a propensity for interacting with a variety of cations, small molecules, and polymers like proteins. Understanding the functions phytate can play in human/animal digestion, food processing, polymer functionality, and many other domains requires a thorough understanding of its chemical and structural properties as well as how and when these interactions occur. Apart from the importance of studying these phytate-protein interactions in relation to seed proteins, they would also help in gaining insights into the underutilized beneficial effects of phytate on the functionality of food polymers.','-','Pant P., Garg S., Nain P. and Punetha H. (2023). In silico Study of Interaction Between Phytate and Seed Storage Proteins (SSPs) of Indian Mustard. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 15(9): 706-711.'),(7510,'165','Effect of Residual Nutrients of Potato Crop on Growth, Yield Attributing Characters and Yields of Spring Maize (Zea mays L.)','Shekhar Singh, U. P. Shahi, Sandeep Kumar Verma, Sudhir Kumar Singh, Vivek Kumar, Vaishali Singh and Bhhavya Thakur','Effect-of-Residual-Nutrients-of-Potato-Crop-on-Growth,-Yield-Attributing-Characters-and-Yields-of-Spring-Maize-(Zea-mays-L.)-Sandeep-Kumar-Verma-122.pdf','',1,'The present investigation was conducted on maize crop in spring season of 2020-21 at the Crop Research Centre, Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel University of Agriculture & Technology, Meerut-250110. The soil of experimental field was sandy loam in texture and slightly alkaline in reaction. The soil was low in available nitrogen and sulphur, medium in phosphorus and potassium. The experiment consisting 13 treatments in previous potato crop viz., T1 (RDF NPK and S (Common fertilizers), T2 (RDF N and P (no-K, no-S) (Common fertilizers), T3 (RDF NP and S (no-K) (Common fertilizers), T4 (RDF NP and K (no-S) (Common fertilizers), T5 (RDF NP and 50% of RDF K by POLY-4), T6 (RDF NP +100% POLY-4), T7 (RDF NP and 150% of RDF K by POLY-4), T8 (RDF NP+ 50% of RDF K by MOP + 50% of RDF S equal to T5 by Bentonite), T9 (RDF NP+ 100% of RDF K by MOP+100% of RDF S equal to T6 by Bentonite), T10 (RDF NP+ 150% of RDF K by MOP + 150% of RDF S equal to T7 by Bentonite), T11 (RDF NP and 25% K by MOP + 75% by POLY-4), T12 (RDF NP and 50% K by MOP + 50% by POLY-4), T13 (RDF NP and 75% K by MOP + 25% by POLY-4) was laid out in randomized block design with three replication. Only 75% of recommended dose of N & P was applied in maize crop to observe the residual effect of previously applied nutrients. The findings of experiment revealed that the growth attributes like plant height, functional leaves per plant, chlorophyll content (SPAD Value) and yield attributes i.e. grain yield was maximum with application of RDF NP and 150% of RDF K by POLY-4 (T7) followed by RDF NP and 25% K by MOP + 75% by POLY-4 (T11) applied in previous crop. Polyhalite was superior over common fertilizer MOP. Residual effect varied due to source of potassium application and polyhalite was found better than MOP. Super optional application of K to preceding crop resulted in more residual effect therefore it may be concluded that nutrient management should be consider on cropping sequence basis rather than single crop and polyhalite may be a good source for potassium.','Polyhalite, Residual effect, SPAD, Bentonite and Chlorophyll content','From the result it was found that residual effect varied due to source of potassium application and in this study polyhalite was found better than MOP. Secondary, super optional application of K to preceding crop resulted in more residual effect therefore it may be concluded that nutrient management should be consider on cropping sequence basis rather than single crop and polyhalite may be a good source for potassium.','-','Shekhar Singh, U. P. Shahi, Sandeep Kumar Verma, Sudhir Kumar Singh, Vivek Kumar, Vaishali Singh and Bhhavya Thakur (2023). Effect of Residual Nutrients of Potato Crop on Growth, Yield Attributing Characters and Yields of Spring Maize (Zea mays L.). Biological Forum – An International Journal, 15(9): 712-719.'),(7511,'165','Genetic variability and Trait associated in Maize in Eastern U.P. conditions of Northern India','Bhattu Shakya Raj, Shailesh Marker, G. Roopa Lavanya, G. Sharath Chandra and Aditya Mohan Maharishi ','Genetic-variability-and-Trait-associated-in-Maize-in-Eastern-U.P.-conditions-of-Northern-India-123.pdf','',1,'The population of the country is increasing at an immense rate, and agricultural land is being the limiting factor, thus increase in productivity of maize is a key important but nowadays the nutrient and the yield of the crop is low due to abiotic and abiotic stress. This is the main reason for low yield in the maize in eastern U.P. region. therefore, to refill the research gap the experiment was conducted on genetic variability parameters, correlation, and path analysis in fifteen maize genotypes for twenty quantitative traits and yield characters in Rabi 2021-2022. The Experiment was conducted in a Randomized Complete Block Design and replicated thrice. The Analysis of variance for all twenty quantitative characters revealed that treatment differences were highly significant under study at 1% level of significance with exception of days to 50% tasseling. Genotypes MZ1908, MZ1914 and NBPGR 36548 depicted highest grain yield. The values of PCV were higher than GCV, moreover, values for all the characters and large difference between the values of PCV and GCV are number of leaves per plant, leaf width, cob length, cob diameter, number of kernel rows per cob, dry weight, fresh weight, and biological yield therefore, these indicated that the environmental factors significantly influenced the expression of these traits. All the traits studied had more heritability, genetic advance at 5% selection intensity and genetic advance as percent of mean and high expected heritability was found in number of cobs per plant where as the higher genetic advance was found in weight of cob. Correlation studies have shown that selection based on weight of cob, biological yield and 100 seed weight has a positive correlation and direct effects with grain yield per plant at phenotypic level. Biological yield (g),weight of cob (g), Seed index (100 seed weight (g)), number of kernels per row and leaf width. Therefore, effective selection can be attempted for these traits which would help in improvement of grain yield in maize genotypes suitable for rabi season.','PCV, GCV, Heritability, Genetic advance, Correlation studies','Analysis of variance was conducted for l twenty quantitative characters and it was found that treatment differences were highly significant at 1% level of significance except for days to 50% tasseling. The remaining characters showed significance at a 5% level. The values of PCV were higher than GCV values for all the characters and there was a large difference between the values of PCV and GCV particularly in the number of leaves this indicates that environmental factors significantly influenced the expression of these traits. All the studied traits had higher heritability and genetic advance at a 5% selection intensity. The genetic advance as a percent of mean was also high, and highest was expected heritability was found in the number of cobs per plant. The higher genetic advance was found in weight of cob. Correlation studies suggest that selection based on the weight of cob and 100 seed weight had a positive correlation and direct effects with grain yield per plant at the phenotypic level. Biological yield (g), weight of the cob (g), Seed index (100 seed weight (g) ), number of kernels per row and leaf width had the highest positive and significant correlation at genotypic level. Based on these findings it is concluded that effective selection should be attempted for these traits in order to improve grain yield in maize genotypes suitable for the eastern U.P condition in northern India. The genotypes MZ1908, MZ1914 and NBPGR36548 exhibited highest grain yield.','-','Bhattu Shakya Raj, Shailesh Marker, G. Roopa Lavanya, G. Sharath Chandra and Aditya Mohan Maharishi (2023). Genetic variability and Trait associated in Maize in Eastern U.P conditions of Northern India. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 15(9): 720-726.'),(7512,'165','Standardization of Seed Production in fodder Berseem (Trifolium alexandrinum L.) through Sowing Dates and Foliar Nutrition','P. Swathi, B. Jyothi Basu, N. Sambasiva Rao and V. Saida Naik ','Standardization-of-Seed-Production-in-fodder-Berseem-(Trifolium-alexandrinum-L.)-through-Sowing-Dates-and-Foliar-Nutrition-P-Swathi-124.pdf','',1,'Scarcity of green fodder and low seed setting forces the farmers not to prefer for seed production. Weather extremities like unbalanced or untimely rains or high speed winds also affected seed setting. All these extremities lead to scarcity of berseem seed production in Andhra Pradesh. Maintaining the proper sowing time and time of last cut for fodder and for leaving the crop for seed production may help in keeping the balance between vegetative and reproductive phases for high seed yield. Therefore, optimum sowing time and last cut is a very deciding factor to achieve maximum green fodder and seed yield. To tackle these problems an experiment was conducted during Rabi season 2018-19 & 2019-20 at Agricultural Research Station, Jangamaheswarapuram, Guntur District, Andhra Pradesh, India with an aim to standardize the seed production in fodder berseem through sowings dates and foliar nutrition. Among the four dates of sowings, sowing during first week of October performed better in terms of plant height, number of leaves plant-1, number of heads plant-1, head length, number of seedshead-1, number of shoot plant-1 and seed yield. Among the foliar nutrition spraying of 2% MAP solution at flowering stage recorded the highest yield, which differs significantly from remaining three treatments. There was no significant interaction between dates of sowing and foliar nutrition for yield & yield attributing characters.','Berseem, Seed yield, Foliar spray, Urea','Berseem is regarded as \'the king of fodder\' due to its increased production capacity, succulence, palatability, nutritional content, and constant supply of fodder over several months. Sowing of berseem in first week of October along with spraying of 2% MAP at the time of flowering good for getting highest yield & yield attributing characters followed by sowing at third week of October. Sowing done beyond the November may not good for seed germination due to low temperatures coincidence with germination stage. Taking of Berseem seed production will be good in terms of returns per rupee investment in palnadu region in place of normal sown rabi crops like paddy/blackgram/bengalgram. But, still there were some bottleneck problems for production, storage and marketing of berseem seed. Generally the crop is allowed to take 3-4 green forage cuttings after that last cutting will be left for seed production means it will take 250-270 days. In this investigation we conducted experiment without allowing for green forage cuttings with main focus on seed production than forage production, then the crop matured within 118- 140 days. ','-','P. Swathi, B. Jyothi Basu, N. Sambasiva Rao and V. Saida Naik (2023). Standardization of Seed Production in fodder Berseem (Trifolium alexandrinum L.) through Sowing Dates and Foliar Nutrition. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 15(9): 727-732.'),(7513,'165','Effect of Nutrient Sources on Nutrient uptake by Cowpea [Vigna unguiculata (L.) Walp.] and Soil properties in Soils of North Gujarat','K.K. Patel, N.I. Patel, M.K. Gamit, B.J. Chaudhary and N.M. Chaudhari ','Effect-of-Nutrient-Sources-on-Nutrient-uptake-by-Cowpea-[Vigna-unguiculata-(L.)-Walp.]--and-Soil-properties-in-Soils-of-North-Gujarat-KK-Patel-125.pdf','',1,'The study on the effect of nutrient sources on nutrient uptake by cowpea and soil properties in soils of North Gujarat may face challenges related to variable soil conditions, including pH and nutrient content, which can influence nutrient availability. Additionally, weather fluctuations and precipitation patterns in the region can impact nutrient uptake and plant growth. At the Agronomy Instructional Farm in Sardarkrushinagar, Gujarat, India eight treatment combinations that included two levels of biofertilizer and two sources each of nitrogen and phosphorus were assessed using a factorial randomized block design with four replications. The findings showed that the individual application of nutrient sources Rhizobium+ PSB, AS and SSP resulted in considerably greater N, P and S content as well as N, P, K, S uptake by cowpea. While N content in seed by phosphorus sources as well as K content in seed and stover both found to be non significant due to nutrient sources. Rhizobium + PSB application had a significant influenced the soil\'s available N and P when compared to no application of biofertilizer. While in case of available sulphur was significantly improved with individual application of different nutrient sources. It is concluded that individual application of various nutrient sources resulted into better uptake of nutrients and improved the soil fertility status after harvest of crop.','Cowpea, nutrient content, uptake, soil properties, nutrient sources','In light of results obtained from present investigation, it is concluded that cowpea crop (cv. Gujarat Cowpea 5) should be fertilized with combined application of seed inoculation of Rhizobium + PSB each @ 10 ml/kg of seed with 20 kg N/ha through ammonium sulphate as well as 40 kg P2O5/ha through single super phosphate resulted into better uptake of nutrients in loamy sand of North Gujarat. Besides this, it also improved the soil fertility status after harvest of crop.','-','K.K. Patel, N.I. Patel, M.K. Gamit, B.J. Chaudhary and N.M. Chaudhari (2023). Effect of Nutrient Sources on Nutrient uptake by Cowpea [Vigna unguiculata (L.) Walp.] and Soil properties in Soils of North Gujarat. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 15(9): 733-737.'),(7514,'165','Life from Outer Space: Overview on the Presence of DNA, RNA Associated Bio-Molecules – Amino Acids, Nucleobases, Sugars and Water Molecules in Meteorites and Carbonaceous Chondrites','Shivakumar R., Balaji B., Dharani E. and Pratik Prasad Singh','Life-from-Outer-Space-Overview-on-the-Presence-of-DNA,-RNA-Associated-Bio-Molecules-–-Amino-Acids,-Nucleobases,-Sugars-and-Water-Molecules-in-Meteorites-and-Carbonaceous-Chondrites-Shivakumar-R-126.pdf','',1,'Life requires various compounds, such as sugars, amino acids, nucleobases, vital elements, and water, to thrive on Earth\'s seemingly inert rock surface. These compounds not only provide the necessary energy but also store the information essential for life and exhibit functions crucial for survival. Compelling evidence indicates the existence of these molecules and their precursors in interstellar objects. Analytical techniques such as X-ray diffraction, ion exchange chromatography, paper chromatography, high-performance liquid chromatography, and mass spectrometry have unveiled the presence of life-supporting molecules in meteorites and chondrite samples. Moreover, there are theories suggesting that Earth\'s water might be the result of impacts from cold, ice-bearing comets and asteroids. The analysis results, combined with these theories, strongly suggest that life-supporting compounds could have been transported to Earth, transforming this once lifeless rock into a thriving habitat. This article delves into the possibility that the origin of life on Earth may have been facilitated by the transportation of vital compounds from interstellar space through various celestial bodies.','Astrobiology, Carbonaceous chondrites, Amino acids, Sugars, Outer space','This review provides a thorough overview of the presence of biomolecules related to DNA and RNA in meteorites and carbonaceous chondrites, including amino acids, nucleobases, sugars, and water molecules. The investigation explores the potential for the existence of prebiotic components of life in extraterrestrial sources, shedding light on the fascinating field of astrobiology.\r\nNumerous organic compounds necessary for life as we know it have been found in various meteorites and carbonaceous chondrites after careful analysis and examination. These samples contain amino acids, which are the building blocks of proteins and suggest the possibility of the formation of complex biomolecules. Nucleobases, the crucial components of DNA and RNA, have also been identified, further supporting the idea that the necessary ingredients for life may exist beyond our planet.\r\nMoreover, these extraterrestrial materials have been found to contain sugars, which are essential for many biochemical processes. This discovery raises the prospect of chemical reactions as well as potential sources of energy required for the emergence of life. The discovery of water molecules in carbonaceous chondrites and meteorites also adds to the growing body of evidence supporting the favourable conditions for the emergence of life-supporting environments.\r\nThe results presented in this paper highlight the possibility for extraterrestrial sources to have contributed to the origin of life on Earth, even though research into the precise mechanisms and origins of these biomolecules in meteorites and carbonaceous chondrites is still ongoing. The panspermia hypothesis, which postulates the transfer of life\'s fundamental components from one planet to another, is complicated by the discovery of these biomolecules in such celestial bodies. These discoveries have implications that go beyond Earth, deepening our knowledge of the cosmos and opening up new avenues for life. Further research will undoubtedly shed more light on the existence and origin of these biomolecules in extraterrestrial sources, including in-depth analysis of additional meteorite samples, lab simulations, and space missions.\r\n','-','Shivakumar R., Balaji B., Dharani E. and Pratik Prasad Singh (2023). Life from Outer Space: Overview on the Presence of DNA, RNA Associated Bio-Molecules – Amino Acids, Nucleobases, Sugars and Water Molecules in Meteorites and Carbonaceous Chondrites. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 15(9): 738-742.'),(7515,'165','Exploring Effective Weed Management through UAV Application','Monika Raghuwanshi, Namrata Jain, K.K. Agrawal and Mrinali Gajbhiye ','Exploring-Effective-Weed-Management-through-UAV-Application-Monika-Raghuwanshi-127.pdf','',1,'Weeds, which are plants considered undesirable, can significantly reduce agricultural yields by competing for essential resources such as water, nutrients, light, space, and carbon dioxide. Effective weed management is essential to meet the increasing demands of food production. The integration of drones, artificial intelligence, and a variety of sensors, including hyperspectral, multi-spectral, and RGB (red-green-blue), holds the exciting potential to enhance weed management outcomes. The transformational impact of Unmanned Aerial Vehicles (UAVs) on agricultural weed management is undeniable. This comprehensive review delves into various aspects, encompassing types of UAVs, emerging trends, payload options, sensing technologies, weed distribution mapping, spectral analysis, and image processing. The utilization of UAVs offers a range of benefits, including heightened efficiency, cost-effectiveness, and reduced environmental footprint. While challenges persist, real-world case studies underscore the successful integration of UAVs into weed management strategies. As a pivotal advancement in precision agriculture, UAVs have the capacity to revolutionize weed management, ushering in an era of sustainable and precisely targeted interventions.','Weed management, Unmanned Aerial Vehicle, RGB, Hyper spectral, Multi-spectral','Agriculture plays a crucial role in upholding the economy, serving as a foundational element that influences long-term economic growth and structural shifts. Amidst this backdrop, farmers confront a range of uncertainties, including issues related to achievable crop yields, the consequences of climate change, the presence of pests and weeds, soil degradation, and other intricate challenges. Nevertheless, the rise of advanced technologies spanning production, information sharing, transportation, and more, has distinctly introduced new patterns in the agricultural domain. This evolution is notably demonstrated by the rapid acceptance of artificial intelligence (AI) in conjunction with the advancement of state-of-the-art computing technologies. Within the sphere of agricultural management, AI, encompassing tools such as drones and remote sensing unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs), has emerged as a potent, accurate, cost-effective, and sustainable remedy. Its importance lies in ensuring the continued viability of the agricultural sector in efficiently meeting the demands and supply dynamics of food production.\r\nA key aspect explored in this study revolves around the strategic utilization of unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs) and machine learning algorithms to enhance the sustainability of weed management practices. This is accomplished by precisely identifying clusters of weeds within cultivated fields. The incorporation of UAVs holds potential for advancing strategies in integrated weed management (IWM). By identifying weed patches, these technologies can alleviate the pressure on herbicide-resistant weeds, thus reducing the spread of herbicides into the environment. The application of AI in agriculture also offers the benefit of addressing labor shortages and minimizing human intervention in tasks such as the application of chemical herbicides. For example, the use of drone-based fertilizer sprayers streamlines this process, optimizing both efficiency and accuracy.\r\nIn summary, this paper envisions that the ongoing advancement of AI technology will significantly transform the agricultural sector. This transformation will serve as a pivotal approach in reshaping the industry for all stakeholders involved, aligning with the fundamental principles of agricultural precision—employing the right strategies, in the right locations, at the right times, and in suitable quantities.\r\n','-','Monika Raghuwanshi, Namrata Jain, K.K. Agrawal and Mrinali Gajbhiye (2023). Exploring Effective Weed Management through UAV Application. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 15(9): 743-752.'),(7516,'165','Effect of Organic and Inorganic Source of Nutrients on soil properties and quality of Fenugreek (Trigonella foenum – graecum L.)','Prakash Chand Gurjar, R.H. Meena, Gajanand Jat, S.C. Meena and Dharm Pal Singh','Effect-of-Organic-and-Inorganic-Source-of-Nutrients-on-soil-properties-and-quality-of-Fenugreek-(Trigonella-foenum-graecum-L.)-Prakash-Chand-Gurjar-128.pdf','',1,'A field experiment was conducted during the Rabi season 2021-22 and 2022-23 at Rajasthan College of Agriculture, MPUAT, Udaipur (Rajasthan), to study the Effect of Organic and Inorganic Source of Nutrients on soil biological properties and Productivity The research revolved around the cultivation of Fenugreek (Trigonella foenum – graecum L.). The experiment was thoughtfully organized using a Factorial Randomized Block design, thoughtfully replicated three times for robust statistical analysis and sixteen treatments. The treatments comprised of different combination of organic source and inorganic source viz. The significantly, bulk density, particle density, porosity, water holding capacity, pH, EC and organic carbon observed with the application of the full Recommended Dose of Fertilizer (100% RDF) coupled with a foliar spray of zinc 0.25% with 6 t vermicompost + foliar spray of @5% vermiwash (ION3 ON3) over control during both 2021-22, 2022-23 and in pooled analysis. Furthermore the significantly protein content in seed and chlorophyll content was recorded with application of 100% RDF + foliar spray of zinc 0.25% with 6 t vermicompost + foliar spray of @5% vermiwash (ION3 ON3) In comparison to the control group, these superior results persisted consistently throughout both years and remained evident in the comprehensive pooled analysis.','Vermicompost, + foliar spray of vermiwash with fertility level + foliar spray of zinc, Physico-chemical properties and productivity of fenugreek','Based on the insightful findings of this experiment, it can be definitively concluded that the utilization of 6 tons of vermicompost, coupled with a 5% foliar spray of vermiwash, in combination with 100% RDF and a foliar spray of zinc at a concentration of 0.25%, leads to a significant enhancement in various soil attributes. These improvements encompass bulk density, particle density, porosity, water-holding capacity, pH levels, electrical conductivity (EC), and the organic carbon content in the soil following the harvest. Moreover, this treatment regimen also demonstrates a notable increase in the protein content of Fenugreek seeds and the chlorophyll content within Fenugreek plants. As a result, it is strongly recommended to employ the combination of RDF with zinc foliar spray, in conjunction with vermicompost and vermiwash foliar application, to effectively ameliorate the physicochemical properties of the soil within the Typic Haplustepts soil category found in the sub-humid southern plains of Rajasthan.','-','Prakash Chand Gurjar, R.H. Meena, Gajanand Jat, S.C. Meena and Dharm Pal Singh (2023). Effect of Organic and Inorganic Source of Nutrients on soil properties and quality of Fenugreek (Trigonella foenum – graecum L.). Biological Forum – An International Journal, 15(9): 753-757.'),(7517,'165','Influence of Environmental Factors on Population Fluctuation of Fruit Borer Infesting Chilli (Capsicum annum L.)','L.S. Saini, H.P. Meghwal, B.K. Patidar, D. Parmar and M.S. Meena ','Influence-of-Environmental-Factors-on-Population-Fluctuation-of-Fruit-Borer-Infesting-Chilli-(Capsicum-annum-L.)-LS-Saini-129.pdf','',1,'In India, chilli fruit borer is a polyphagous pest that attacks a wide range of crops, including chillies. This pest is a major concern for agricultural practices in India and can cause substantial economic losses for farmers. The larvae of the chilli fruit borer feed on the flowers, buds, and developing fruit of chilli plants, leading to reduced yields and crop quality. Effectively addressing chili fruit borer infestations is a formidable task due to their rapid reproductive rate, capacity to develop resistance to pesticides, broad range of host plants, global distribution, and the intricate interplay of factors like temperature, humidity, and crop physiology that influence their population dynamics, so conduct a field experiment on population fluctuation of fruit borer (Spodoptera litura Fabricius) on chilli (Capsicum annum L.) crop was studied during October to March 2020-21, at experimental farm, Agricultural Research Station, Ummedganj, Kota (Rajasthan). The study revealed that the population of fruit borer (3.67 larvae/plant) was appeared after 13th week of transplanting of chilli seedling (3rd SMW). The fruit borer peak population (4.13 larvae/ plant) was observed in the 7th SMW (17th week after transplanting) when, maximum temperature, minimum temperature, morning relative humidity, evening relative humidity and rainfall (26.80°C, 10.30°C, 85.00 per cent ,63.00 per cent and 0.00 mm, respectively). Correlation of fruit borer larval population with weather parameters revealed that maximum temperature, minimum temperature, evening relative humidity and rainfall showed negatively correlated (r= -0.0212, -0.4538, -0.2887 and -0.2289, respectively), while, morning relative humidity was positively correlated (r= 0.0996). ','Chilli, Correlation, Fruit Borer, Peak, Population','The incidence of fruit borer (S. litura) was commenced in the 3rd week of January (3rd SMW) and touched it’s peak (4.13 larvae/plant) in the 2nd week of February (7th SMW). Correlation of fruit borer larval population with weather parameters revealed that maximum temperature, minimum temperature, evening relative humidity and rainfall showed negatively correlated.','-','L.S. Saini, H.P. Meghwal, B.K. Patidar, D. Parmar and M.S. Meena (2023). Influence of Environmental Factors on Population Fluctuation of Fruit Borer Infesting Chilli (Capsicum annum L.). Biological Forum – An International Journal, 15(9): 758-761.'),(7518,'148','Optimizing Crop Productivity and Profitability through Integrated Nutrient Management in low land Rice','Manju Bhargavi B., Swapna N., Balaji Naik. B., Ravinder J. and Soundarya B. ','Optimizing-Crop-Productivity-and-Profitability-through-Integrated-Nutrient-Management-in-low-land-Rice-Manju-Bhargavi-B-116.pdf','',1,'The most rational approach for maintaining long-term soil fertility and productivity is the integrated nutrient supply system. To optimise the yield of rice under different inorganic and organic combinations of nutrients that also leave positive effects on soil health, a field experiment was conducted at the Regional Sugarcane and Rice Research Station, Rudrur, during kharif season of 2021 to assess the effect of different nutrient management practices on yield and yield parameters of rice. The experiment was laid out in randomized block design, with three replication and seven treatments. The results revealed among the different nutrient combinations tested, the nutrient supplied based on STCR equation in addition to 5t FYM blended with microbial consortium (T7) recorded significantly more productive tillers (28.0), number of grains panicle-1 (262.0) and test weight (15.1 gr) when compared to control (no fertilizer). However, it was on par with T4 and T6 with respect to the productive tillers, T3, T4 & T6 with respect to no. of grains panicle-1 and T2, T3, T4 & T6 in terms of test weight. Further T7 treatment was recorded highest grain yield of 5418 kg ha-1. However, it was comparable with T4 and significantly superior over rest of the treatments. This trend was also reflected in terms of net returns. The highest B:C ratio was recorded with T7 treatment. However, it comparable with T3, T4, T5 & T6 and significantly more over T1 & T2. The integrated use of NPK fertilizer along with FYM + Microbial consortium based on STCR approach not only gave higher rice yield but also improve and sustain the soil fertility. The observation of the data revels that the performance of STCR with 5t FYM + MC for the yield target 75q ha-1 (T7) and RDF+10 t FYM, in general was better over rest of the treatments in increasing yield parameters, yield and economics of rice.','Rice, Integrated nutrient management, Azospirillum, STCR, FYM, Yield','The outcomes of this study indicated that the application of fertilizers based on soil test value (STCR approach) along with organic manures significantly improved the growth, yield attributes and yield compared to chemical fertilizers alone of lowland rice. The observation of the data revels that the performance of STCR dose with 5t FYM + MC for the yield target 75q ha-1 (T7) and RDF + 10 t FYM, in general was better over rest of the treatments in increasing yield parameters, yield and economics of rice.','-','Manju Bhargavi B., Swapna N., Balaji Naik. B., Ravinder J. and Soundarya B. (2023). Optimizing Crop Productivity and Profitability through Integrated Nutrient Management in low land Rice. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 15(1): 710-713.'),(7519,'165','Studies on the Process Optimization and Quality Characteristics of Turmeric Fortified Milkshakes with Honey as Sugar Replacer','Vatsal Verma, S.S. Sengar, P.S. Pramanik, Rajpal Diwakar and Rishikant ','Studies-on-the-Process-Optimization-and-Quality-Characteristics-of-Turmeric-Fortified-Milkshakes-with-Honey-as-Sugar-Replacer-Rajpal-Diwakar-130.pdf','',1,'The present study was undertaken to develop Fortified milk shake. Optimization of the fortified milk shake was done by incorporating various ingredients along with other modifications in view of current study. This study aimed at characterizing sensory and physico-chemical profile of the fortified milk shake stored at refrigeration temperature. Scope and plan of work has been explained to include; 1. To optimize the process of fortified milk shake. 2. To standardize the level of honey as the sugar replacer in the fortified milk shake 3-To standardize the level of turmeric in the fortified milk shake. 4-To study the sensory characteristics of the fortified milk shake under refrigeration temperature 5- To study the physico-chemical characteristics of the fortified milk shake under refrigeration temperature. The fortified milk shake was prepared as per the previous protocol, with the suitable modifications keeping in view for the current study. The four different levels of honey in the fortified milk shake were tried that is, i.e. 5%, 10%, 15% and 20%. Similarly, four different levels of turmeric in the fortified milk shake were tried that is i.e. 0.1%, 0.3%, 0.5%, 0.7% making of different combination. The sensory evaluation of the product was been carried out by the panelists using seven-point hedonic scale. The level of 10% Honey along with turmeric @0.3% was found superior over other combinations. The best combination of honey @ 10% and turmeric @ 0.3% was taken further for the study of sensory characteristics and physicochemical parameters. Study on sensory characteristics of fortified milk shake during refrigeration temperature was conducted. The study included the sensory evaluation of the products at 0 day, 3th day, and 5th days. \r\nThe results indicated that the scores for appearance and colour, flavour of the product were significantly different with rating “Good” by the panelists on 5th day of storage. The result indicated that the scores for consistency, texture, sedimentation, mouth feel and overall acceptability on 5th day of storage were found to be non significant scores with rating good to very good by the panelist. The physico-chemical parameter showed a significant decrease in the pH value, i.e. 6.72 on 0 day to 6.69 on 7th day of storage. Acidity value showed a linear increase from 0.13 on 0 day to 0.23 on 7th day of refrigeration storage. Specific gravity, total solid and SNF value of fortified milk shakes was found a non significant change on the 7th day of storage. The COB test of the FMS was found negative on 0 day, 3rd day and 5th day of storage. The test found positive on 7th day of refrigeration storage.\r\n','Sensory, Physico- chemical, fortified, storage','1. The processing protocol for preparation of fortified milk shake was optimized.\r\n2. Different ingredient and their level were optimized and formulation for fortified milk shake was developed keeping in view the requirement of the products.\r\n3. Study on the sensory and physico-chemical parameter of fortified milk shake at refrigeration temperature (5±1°C) work conducted.\r\n4. The fortified milk shake was rated very good on the basis of sensory and physico-chemical attributes and was observed safe for consumption.\r\n','-','Vatsal Verma, S.S. Sengar, P.S. Pramanik, Rajpal Diwakar and Rishikant (2023). Studies on the Process Optimization and Quality Characteristics of Turmeric Fortified Milkshakes with Honey as Sugar Replacer. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 15(9): 762-767.'),(7520,'165','Genetic variability, Heritability and Genetic Advance for Seed Yield and its components in Indian Mustard [Brassca juncea (L.) Czern & Coss.]','Swapnil Dwivedi, Mahak Singh, R.K. Yadav, Pawan Kumar Saini and Harshit Tripathi','Genetic-variability,-Heritability-and-Genetic-Advance-for-Seed-Yield-and-its-components-in-Indian-Mustard-[Brassca-juncea-(L.)-Czern-&-Coss.]-Swapnil-Dwivedi-131.pdf','',1,'India contributes greatly to rapeseed–mustard production globally and is the largest grower of rapeseed-mustard, occupying the first position in the area and second position in production after China. Rapeseed-mustard are important crops that help meet the demand for domestic oil seeds. Given India\'s high population, there is a pressing need to increase the production of oil seed in the country. Therefore, the current study aims to analyze different genetic parameters in mustard to plant strategies for the development of high-yielding varieties of Indian mustard. Given this, an experiment was planned and sowing of the experimental material was done at the Oilseed Research Farm of the Chandra Shekhar Azad University of Agriculture & Technology (CSAUA&T), Kanpur. The experimental material comprising 100 treatments (10 parents + 45 F1\'s + 45 F2\'s) were grown in Randomized Block Design in three replications during rabi season (2021-22) following standard agronomic practices. The observations on seventeen quantitative characters were recorded. Significant differences were observed among the treatments (parents, F1\'s and F2\'s) for all the 17 characters under study in the combined analysis of variance (ANOVA). High heritability along with high genetic advance was recorded for main axis height (cm), total siliqua per plant, biological yield per plant, and seed yield per plant in F1 and F2 generations. Main axis height (cm), number of secondary branches per plant, total siliqua per plant, siliqua length(cm), biological yield per plant (g), and seed yield per plant showed high to moderate PVC and GCV. This showed the preponderance of additive gene action in the inheritance of test weight hence, selection based on test weight i.e., seed size would be rewarding. ','Indian mustard, Brassica juncea, heritability, variability, genetic advance, GCV and PCV','High heritability and high genetic advance for main axis height, total siliqua per plant, biological yield per plant, and seed yield per plant in F1 and F2generations. It was mainly due to additive gene effects and selection would be effective for these traits. Main axis height, number of secondary branches per plant, siliqua per plant, siliqua length, biological yield per plant, and seed yield per plant also showed high to moderate GCV along with PCV indicating the additive gene action so the selection of genotypes would be rewarding for the aforesaid traits.','-','Swapnil Dwivedi, Mahak Singh, R.K. Yadav, Pawan Kumar Saini and Harshit Tripathi (2023). Genetic variability, Heritability and Genetic Advance for Seed Yield and its components in Indian Mustard [Brassca juncea (L.) Czern & Coss.]. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 15(9): 768-772.'),(7521,'165','Performance of Soybean Varieties in Relation to Different Sowing Dates in Kymore Plateau and Satpura Hills Zone of Madhya Pradesh','Nirmal Choudhary, Anay K. Rawat, Abhijeet Dubey and Pramod Kumar','Performance-of-Soybean-Varieties-in-Relation-to-Different-Sowing-Dates-in-Kymore-Plateau-and-Satpura-Hills-Zone-of-Madhya-Pradesh-Nirmal-Choudhary-132.pdf','',1,'The present investigation was carried at Research farm, Department of Physics and Agro-meteorology, College of Agricultural Engineering, JNKVV, Jabalpur (M.P.) during kharif season of 2022. Major objectives of the investigation were to find out the most suitable time for sowing of soybean, to assess the performance of soybean varieties under different dates of sowing and to work out economics of the treatments.\r\nNon-availability of early maturing, photo-insensitive, high yielding cultivars with resistance to biotic and abiotic stresses are the major challenges limiting soybean productivity in present climate changing scenario. The experiment was laid out in split plot design taking three dates of sowing in different meteorological weeks i.e. 25th, 27th and 29th in main plots and three varieties (viz., JS 20-98, JS 20-34 and JS 20-69) in sub-plots with three replications. The study revealed that sowing of soybean in 25th MW found most suitable. This sowing period can be extended up to 27th MW on basis of monsoon onset in the region without any substantial yield loss. Soybean sowing in 29th MW caused significant yield loss. Both varieties JS 20-98 and JS 20-69 were found to be superior over variety JS 20-34. Sowing of soybean varieties JS 20-98 and JS 20-69 during 25th meteorological week resulted more productive and remunerative.\r\n','Soybean, Dates of sowing, Varieties, Meteorological week (MW), Photoperiod','Based on the foregoing discussion, it can be concluded that 25th meteorological week is best period for sowing of soybean in Kymore Plateau and Satpura Hills Zone of Madhya Pradesh but it can extended upto 27thmeteorological week based on monsoon onset. Both varieties JS 20-98 and JS 20-69 are suitable for getting higher yield. Sowing of soybean varieties JS 20-98 and JS 20-69 during 25th meteorological week will be more productive and remunerative.','-','Nirmal Choudhary, Anay K. Rawat, Abhijeet Dubey and Pramod Kumar (2023). Performance of Soybean Varieties in Relation to Different Sowing Dates in Kymore Plateau and Satpura Hills Zone of Madhya Pradesh. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 15(9): 773-777.'),(7522,'165','Exploiting Indigenous Collections for efficient Utilization of Chickpea (Cicer arietinum L.) Genotypes for Crop Improvement based on Agro-Morphological Traits','Dilip Panwar, Anshuman Singh and Pramod Kumar Sharma ','Exploiting-Indigenous-Collections-for-efficient-Utilization-of-Chickpea-(Cicer-arietinum-L.)-Genotypes-for-Crop-Improvement-based-on-Agro-Morphological-Traits-Dilip-Panwar-133.pdf','',1,'Agro-morphological traits are stable across various biotic and abiotic stresses owing to oligogenic nature. Hence, for efficient identification and purification at varietal or genotypic level and even in seed production these traits may serve as morphological markers. During a period of Rabi 2020-21 a total of 44 elite chickpea genotypes were experimented in randomized block design (RBD) with three replicates for assessing the genetic variability among 16 agro-morphological traits. ANOVA revealed that seed yield per plant and its contributing traits had significant differences among all the genotypes. Significant differences were observed for days to 50% flowering (days) (Range: 75 to 93; Mean: 82), Seed yield per plant (g/plant) (Range: 4.6 to 20.36; Mean: 10.19), 100 seed weight (g) (Range: 13.23 to 36.06; Mean: 22.14. High heritability with high genetic advance observed for trait 100 seed weight followed by number of secondary branches per plant, biological yield per plant and seed yield per plant. These traits may serve as markers for varietal selection to enhance seed yield of chickpea. Similarly, these putative characters could be recommended for further breeding and selection of genetic materials for developing suitable chickpea genotypes. Correlation analysis exhibited that seed yield per plant had strong positive and significant association with biological yield per plant followed by number of secondary branches per plant and 100 seed weight. Path analysis indicated that biological yield per plant followed by days to 50% flowering, number of secondary branches and 100 seed weight had positive direct effect on seed yield. Genotypic variation found in germplasm collection can be exploited through efficient selection and hybridization among identified genotypes for future crop improvement program of chickpea.','ANOVA, Chickpea, heritability, Correlation, Path analysis','In present study genetic variability was observed to exploit the more variable agro- morphological trait which might be useful in making the superior genotypes against the biotic and abiotic stresses in the hybridization programme. The chickpea breeding lines used in the study showed vast amount of genetic variability among morphologicaltraits. In view of these traits viz; seed size, seed testa texture, seed shape and plant height had great frequency of variability in phenotypic appearance among genotypes. Similarly, in agronomic traits viz; number of pods per plant, number of seed per pod, seed yield per plant and pod length were showed more genetic variability. In a view to achieve advancement in the seed yield attention should be given on those traits which are directly or indirectly govern the yield component. For that, to find out the relationship among the yield and yield contributing traits correlation and path analysis were done. In results, traits like biological yield per plant, number of secondary branches per plant and 100 seed weight recorded strong positive correlation as well as high positive direct effects with seed yield per plant. Hence, these traits might be useful as selectable marker in the yield improvement of the chickpea genotypes.','-','Dilip Panwar, Anshuman Singh and Pramod Kumar Sharma (2023). Exploiting Indigenous Collections for efficient Utilization of Chickpea (Cicer arietinum L.) Genotypes for Crop Improvement based on Agro-Morphological Traits. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 15(9): 778-785.'),(7523,'165','Probiotic characterization of Curd Developed from Soy Milk','Suryendra Kumar Mishra, Sangeeta Shukla and Anita Raisagar','Probiotic-characterization-of-Curd-Developed-from-Soy-Milk-Suryendra-Kumar-Mishra-134.pdf','',1,'Soy milk is one of the best alternatives for non-dairy milk. It is free of cholesterol and lactose and might be used as a beverage for vegans, lactose-intolerant and milk-allergic patients. But consumption of soy milk is limited, because of its beany flavor and presence of oligosaccharides. To overcome these limitations, lactic acid fermentation is the best way to improves digestibility of milk constituents. In the present study, probiotic soy curd was developed by using Lactobacillus acidophilus as starter culture. The prepared soy curd was evaluated for their probiotic characterization along with antimicrobial activity and antibiotic resistance. The prepared soy curd possesses all tested probiotic characteristics. The soy curd was also found antagonistic activity against selected human enteric pathogens and resistance for selected antibiotics. ','Antimicrobial, Antibiotic resistance, Lactobacillus acidophilus, Probiotic, Soymilk, Soy curd','In the present study, soy curd was prepared by using Lactobacillus acidophilus as starter culture. After preparation of probiotic soy curd, probiotic potential of prepared soy curd was studied. The lactic acid bacteria i.e., Lactobacillus acidophilus showed all tested probiotic potentials in soy curd. It showed pH tolerance from pH 3 to pH 8, bile salt and phenol tolerance up to all tested concentration i.e., 0.5% to 2% and 0.1% to 0.4% respectively. Viable cell count of prepared soy curd was found maximum for 7 days after preparation. The prepared soy curd showed antimicrobial activity against all tested pathogens. In antibiotic sensitivity profiling, the prepared soy curd showed antibiotic sensitivity towards vancomycin, chloramphenicol and streptomycin whereas towards gentamycin and neomycin, it showed resistant. On the basis of this finding, the study concluded that the prepared soy curd had probiotic potential.','-','Suryendra Kumar Mishra, Sangeeta Shukla and Anita Raisagar (2023). Probiotic characterization of Curd Developed from Soy Milk. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 15(9): 786-791.'),(7524,'156','Management of Factors Affecting Immediate Implant Placement in the Maxillary Anterior Region - A Narrative Review','Shah Rohit, Agrawal Sneh, Kedia Sameer, Vaishnav Kalpesh, Mitra Dipika and Surve Neha','Management-of-Factors-Affecting-Immediate-Implant-Placement-in-the-Maxillary-Anterior-Region-A-Narrative-Review-Shah-Rohit-147.pdf','',1,'Immediate implant placement (IIP) in the aesthetic zone of the maxillary anterior region is commonly becoming a very rapidly accepted and practised procedure. There are multiple factors which can have an influence of IIP and play a vital role in the success/ failure of implants in this aesthetically cervical area. These factors need to identified and managed using various methods and techniques to increase the success rates of IIP in the maxillary anterior region. Some of the important factors like alveolar bone dimensions, soft tissue biotype, proximity to anatomical structures, buccal undercuts, tooth root angulation, position and the like if present in deficient dimensions can severely impact the aesthetic and result in soft and hard tissue deformities surrounding the implants causing its failure. These factors can be managed using a combination of hard and soft tissue augmentation procedures, atraumatic extraction technique, orthodontics and longer, angulated implants/ abutment the various factors to manage IIP in the maxillary anterior region.','Surgical management, Non-surgical management, Immediate Implant Placement, Maxillary anterior region, Aesthetic zone','Randomized controlled trial and further studies with longer sample size needs to be conducted to validate all the treatment options listed above for the management of the factors affecting IIP in the maxillary anterior region.','-','Shah Rohit, Agrawal Sneh, Kedia Sameer, Vaishnav Kalpesh, Mitra Dipika and Surve Neha (2023). Management of Factors Affecting Immediate Implant Placement in the Maxillary Anterior Region - A Narrative Review. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 15(4): 884-888.'),(7525,'165','Biochemical Basis of Bactrocera spp. (Diptera: Tephritidae) Resistance in some Genotypes and Improved Varieties of Cucumis sativus L.','Sheikh Khursheed, Desh Raj, Z. A Bhat, Hamidullah Itoo and G.H. Rather ','Biochemical-Basis-of-Bactrocera-spp.-(Diptera-Tephritidae)-Resistance-in-some-Genotypes-and-Improved-Varieties-of-Cucumis-sativus-L.-Sheikh-Khursheed-135.pdf','',1,'Studies were conducted at farmer’s field, Marhun, Bara (Hamirpur) in Himachal Pradesh to evaluate the potential of biochemical basis of host plant resistance in the management of melon fruit flies of cucumber (Cucumis sativus L.). None of the improved varieties tested showed significant and consistent resistance to this devastating pest. The genotype IC-430026 however, supported relatively less maggot population and thus suffered significantly lower damage (infested fruits) under no insecticide protection than the improved varieties. The different levels of biochemical constituents namely total sugars, total free amino acids and total phenols were observed in genotypes and improved varieties. The higher levels of total sugars and total free amino acids were observed in improved varieties KCU-006 and Mohani-5300. There was a clear significantly positive correlation between total sugars and melon fruit flies incidence.','Cucurbits, host plant resistance, Bactrocera spp., antibiosis, cucurbits','It is concluded that the genotype, IC-430026 seems to hold some promise and thus deserve closer study to establish more accurately the levels and mechanisms of resistance. This cucumber genotype would provide the much needed base for breeding varieties resistant to melon fruit flies. There is also the need to explore more germplasm and materials from various sources to identify those that are less susceptible to this key pest. Though difficult to find, insect pest resistant varieties should form the basis for developing sustainable IPM systems for cucumber. Breeding for resistance is a powerful tool in pest management and once it is achieved, it will not only reduce the cost of production but also substantially prevents the environmental pollution.','-','Sheikh Khursheed, Desh Raj, Z. A Bhat, Hamidullah Itoo and G.H. Rather (2023). Biochemical Basis of Bactrocera spp. (Diptera: Tephritidae) Resistance in some Genotypes and Improved Varieties of Cucumis sativus L. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 15(9): 792-997.'),(7526,'165','Suvarna Shubhra (AKH-09-5): A Promising American Cotton Variety for Sustainable Cotton Production under Rainfed Situation for Central Zone of India','Deshmukh S.B., Rathod T.H., Nemade P.W., Deshmukh D.T. and Kharche V.K. ','Suvarna-Shubhra-(AKH-09-5)-A-Promising-American-Cotton-Variety-for-Sustainable-Cotton-Production-under-Rainfed-Situation-for-Central-Zone-of-India-SB-Deshmukh-136.pdf','',1,'Rapid increase in human population and reduction in arable land due to urbanization and other soil problems, the demand for promoting cotton yield is increasing continuously. The major limiting factors for increasing yield are biotic and abiotic stresses, global climate change, genotype x environment interactions, limited germplasm resources, and negative association between yield and fiber quality. To meet the demands of rainfed cotton growers of Central Zone of India, concentrated breeding efforts at Cotton Research Unit, Dr. Panjabrao Deshmukh Krishi Vidyapeeth, Akola resulted in development and release of high yielding variety Suvarna Shubhra (AKH-09-5) having medium duration and desirable fibre properties. It was continuously evaluated in University Trials, State Multi Location Trials and All India Coordinated Research Project on Cotton (AICRP) trials from 2011-12 to 2018-19 before its release. It was tested on farmer’s field through adaptive trials also. This variety has recorded higher yield compared to the check varieties in all the trials. It is tolerant to leaf hoppers and important cotton diseases. In addition, it has good fibre qualities and acceptable boll size. Due to these desirable features, farmers have shown acceptability to this variety in adaptive trials and because of high lint yield potential and good fibre qualities, ginning industry and mill owners can satisfy their demands.','American cotton, seed cotton yield, lint yield, fibre quality, AICRP trials, diseases and pests','Concentrated breeding efforts at Cotton Research Unit, Dr. Panjabrao Deshmukh Krishi Vidyapeeth, Akola resulted in development of American cotton variety Suvarna Shubhra (AKH-09-5). It has been tested continuously over seven years in different University, State and AICRP on Cotton trials and found promising for seed cotton yield, lint yield, fibre qualities and pest and disease tolerance. It has shown promising performance on farmer’s field in adoptive trials also. Considering its performance, it has been released and notified for Central Zone States of India including Maharashtra, Madhya Pradesh, Gujarat, South Rajasthan and Odisha for rainfed cultivation.','-','Deshmukh S.B., Rathod T.H., Nemade P.W., Deshmukh D.T. and Kharche V.K. (2023). Suvarna Shubhra (AKH-09-5): A Promising American Cotton Variety for Sustainable Cotton Production under Rainfed Situation for Central Zone of India. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 15(9): 798-804.'),(7527,'165','Effect of Different Culture Media on Growth of Alternaria Isolates','Manisha Solanki, J.J. Kadam and Jeetu Narware ','Effect-of-Different-Culture-Media-on-Growth-of-Alternaria-Isolates-JEETU-NARWARE-137.pdf','',1,'Alternaria blight is a devastating disease among the different cultivated and wild host. Diseases caused by Alternaria are prevalent in all agro climatic zones of Maharashtra. A number of disease cause by Alternaria spp. to cereals, vegetables, fruit, and ornamental crops with huge crop loss. A large variation observed in genus Alternaria with respect of symptom development, morphological characteristics and radial growth. In this experimental study we collected the 58 samples, out of which 26 isolates were taken for the variability study of Alternaria spp. The findings of this study highlight the variation observed in mean radial mycelial growth and dry mycelial weight of Alternaria spp on six different media (PDA, OMA, RAM, AHM, SAM and V8 juice agar). It was recorded that the maximum mean radial mycelial growth of Alternaria isolates was observed on PDA medium followed by OMA medium and minimum growth was recorded on V8 medium. Whereas highest dry mycelial weight was recorded on PDA the and lowest mean dry mycelial weight was recorded on V8.','Alternaria spp., radial mycelial growth, dry mycelial weight and six different media.','In this study twenty-six isolates of Alternaria were studied for their cultural variation on different media which are isolated from different host plants. Among the six solid and liquid media evaluated to record colony diameter and dry mycelial weight, the maximum mean radial mycelial growth and dry mycelial weight was observed on PDA medium (Fig. 1a, 1b, 1c, 1d). The least mean mycelial growth and dry mycelial weight was observed on vegetable juice agar (V8) medium (Fig. 2a, 2b, 2c, 2d). The present study will be helpful in the research being carried out by different workers studying pathogen Alternaria to understand its variation in cultural characteristics and its related studies.','-','Manisha Solanki, J.J. Kadam and Jeetu Narware (2023). Effect of Different Culture Media on Growth of Alternaria Isolates. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 15(9): 805-812.'),(7528,'165','Assessing the Seasonal Incidence of Anthracnose and its Relationship with Weather Parameters in Chilli Cultivation','Vivek Singh, U.K. Tripathi, Mukesh Kumar, Abhishek Singh, Ashwani Kumar Patel, Himendra Raj Raghuwanshi and Utkarsh Upadhyay ','Assessing-the-Seasonal-Incidence-of-Anthracnose-and-its-Relationship-with-Weather-Parameters-in-Chilli-Cultivation-Ashwani-Kumar-Patel-138.pdf','',1,'The study investigates the impact of weather conditions on Colletotrichum capsici development in chili crops during the 2021-22 and 2022-23 Rabi seasons at the Vegetable Research Farm in Kalyanpur, CSAUA & T Kanpur, Uttar Pradesh. In the 2021-22 seasons, disease emergence was noted during the 45th meteorological week of November 2021, characterized by moderate humidity (67.50%), a maximum temperature of 28.8°C, a minimum temperature of 12.8°C, zero rainfall, and wind speed at 1.80 km/hr, 4.40 hours of sunshine, and 20.40 mm total evaporation. The peak disease index (55.63%) materialized during the 13th meteorological week of March 2022, marked by weather conditions conducive to pathogen growth. The maximum infection rate occurred during the 46th and 47th meteorological weeks of November 2021, recorded at 0.099.\r\nIn the subsequent 2022-23 season, disease onset was observed during the 45th meteorological week of November 2022, featuring higher humidity (94.0%), a maximum temperature of 29.9°C, a minimum temperature of 16.3°C, no rainfall, and wind speed at 1.40 km/hr, 4.40 hours of sunshine, and 16.80 mm total evaporation. The highest disease index (58.74%) materialized during the 13th meteorological week of March 2023, characterized by favorable weather conditions, including high humidity (82.00%), a maximum temperature of 32.2°C, a minimum temperature of 16.7°C, 39.20 mm of rainfall, wind speed at 4.60 km/hr, 7.30 hours of sunshine, and 19.80 mm total evaporation. The maximum infection rate occurred during the 46th and 47th meteorological week of November 2022 recorded at 0.084 & 0.135. These findings provide valuable insights into the weather-driven dynamics of Colletotrichum capsici in chili crops, offering significant guidance for the management and understanding of anthracnose in agricultural contexts.\r\n','Colletotrichum capsici, Anthracnose, Weather parameters, Rabi season, Disease incidence, Infection rate, Uttar Pradesh.','These findings offer valuable insights into anthracnose management in chili cultivation. Farmers and agricultural practitioners can use this knowledge to anticipate disease outbreaks based on meteorological conditions, implement preventive measures, and adjust cultivation practices. Additionally, researchers and policymakers can use this information to develop targeted strategies for disease control and crop protection, ultimately contributing to sustainable chili production.','-','Vivek Singh, U.K. Tripathi, Mukesh Kumar, Abhishek Singh, Ashwani Kumar Patel, Himendra Raj Raghuwanshi and Utkarsh Upadhyay (2023). Assessing the Seasonal Incidence of Anthracnose and its Relationship with Weather Parameters in Chilli Cultivation. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 15(9): 813-818.'),(7529,'156','Seasonal Changes in Physiological and Hormonal Profile of Crossbred Cattle at Medziphema, Nagaland','Rameshwar, N. Savino, V.K. Vidyarthi, Thejanuo Rio, Tsarila Z.T. Sangtam, Manish Meshram, Gavrav Dubey, Drusilla Jishing Rengma','Seasonal-Changes-in-Physiological-and-Hormonal-Profile-of-Crossbred-Cattle-at-Medziphema,-Nagaland-Rameshwar-148.pdf','',1,'The objectives of this study was to investigate, for the first time in Medziphema, the effects of seasonal variation on physiological and hormonal profile as indicator for physiological status evaluation in crossbred cattle. The study was conducted on ten which were organized according to seasons. The mean THI values for calendar year 2022 were calculated and divided into three seasons such as spring 67.72 (January to April), summer 78.08 (May to August), and winter 72.66 (September to December). Blood samples were collected twice times during this study period. The data with respect to changes in physiological and hormonal included mean rectal temperature (RT), pulse rate (PR), respiration rate (RR), skin temperature (ST) and hormonal profile tri-iodothyronine (T3), thyroxine (T4), plasma cortisol levels. The recorded were mean significantly (P≤0.05) higher summer season rectal temperature (RT), pulse rate (PR), respiration rate (RR), skin temperature (ST) higher during summer as compared to other seasons and as well as tri-iodothyronine (T3) thyroxine (T4), plasma cortisol levels, respectively it was higher during summer season as compared to spring, winter seasons. The changes in physiological and hormonal profile of dairy crossbred cattle in response to different climates have affected on production system. The capability of an animal to with stand the rigors of climatic stress under hot conditions has been assessed physiologically by means of changes in body temperature, respiration rate and pulse rate and skin temperatures. Therefore, this study might be useful for assessment providing base line information on hormonal profile status of dairy cattle. The results indicated that blood was positively correlated with temperature of the body parts. This study concluded that, summer stress of physiological changes in crossbred cattle during the summer season cause stress, which is a challenge for dairy farmers, which affects the production in summer season.','Cattle, physiological, hormonal profile and THI','On the basis of this study, it can be concluded indicated that highest as tri-iodothyronine (T3) thyroxine (T4), plasma cortisol levels during summer and spring season due to heat stress climatic condition. RT, PR, RR and ST highest during summer season due to higher stressful temperatures and THI period. This variation in higher levels parameters related to changes in ambient temperature, relative humidity and THI, although within physiological and hormonal parameters for crossbred cattle. Therefore, we can claim that the seasonal changes can impact the metabolic activates. ','-','Rameshwar, N. Savino, V.K. Vidyarthi, Thejanuo Rio, Tsarila Z.T. Sangtam, Manish Meshram, Gavrav Dubey, Drusilla Jishing Rengma (2023). Seasonal Changes in Physiological and Hormonal Profile of Crossbred Cattle at Medziphema, Nagaland. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 15(4): 889-892.'),(7530,'165','Dynamics of Farming Systems: A Study on income Maximization in Visakhapatnam district of Andhra Pradesh','H. Srinivasa Rao, D.V. Subba Rao and Y. Radha ','Dynamics of Farming Systems A Study on income Maximization in Visakhapatnam district of Andhra Pradesh-H Srinivasa Rao-139.pdf','',1,'As most of the farmers expressed their displeasure in farming due to the continuous negative net returns, it was proposed to identify profitable farming systems in Visakhapatnam. A total of 10 farming systems were observed from existing 8 farming situations in Visakhapatnam district of Andhra Pradesh. This study was conducted by collecting data from 160 farmers i.e., 20 farmers from each situation. Farming System with dairy and goat & sheep as allied activities (FS-VI) was most profitable with a benefit cost ratio of 1.31. DEA (Data Envelopment Analysis) revealed that 37 percentage of farms in all five major significant farming systems were operated at sub-optimal region of production followed by optimal region (34.48%). The R2 value lied in between 0.61 (FS-I) to 0.75 (FS-VI). The input feed was most significant and positively influencing determinant of RUE (Resource Use Efficiency). The Simpson’s diversification index of farming systems ranged between 0.67 (FS-III) to 0.87 (FS-I& II) which indicating high diversification in Visakhapatnam district. The MDR (Market Dependency Ratio) value was lowest in FS-VI (0.60), which reflecting the less dependency on market for inputs by effectively using the inputs produced within the system. Response Priority Index (RPI) revealed that ‘Non remunerative price for product’ was the major marketing constraint followed by ‘price fluctuations’ and ‘high transport cost’ in major farming systems. Though paddy and sugarcane were major crops, the returns from them were negative due to their labour intensiveness. Hence, farm mechanization would help to bring high net returns. Adopting improved technologies and HYV’s, selling the produce at MSP (Minimum Support Price), diversification towards high value crops and processing of raw products would maximize the income of the farmers. ','DEA, Farming systems, Market interlinkages, RPI, RUE, SID','Unlike other north coastal districts, the area under paddy was comparatively less in Visakhapatnam. Farmers would decrease cost of cultivation by increasing farm mechanization and following recommended dosage of NPK in paddy. Sowing suitable varieties and HYVs could also increase the yield in paddy.Another major crop along with paddy was sugarcane in Visakhapatnam district. The decreased yields in sugarcane were due to growing excess area under rainfed situation. Improper management of ratoon crop, poor plant protection measures and monocropping were other major reasons for lower yields.\r\nThe areas under minor millets were comparatively more in Visakhapatnam district, but the yields were very less due to lack of supervision during crop period. Betel leaf and banana were other annual crops recording good returns in the district. However, these two crops need more capital and human labour while growing. Coffee was most lucrative crop if practiced commercially. Girijan Corporations were available to farmers for selling their produce at remunerative prices. \r\n','-','H. Srinivasa Rao, D.V. Subba Rao and Y. Radha (2023). Dynamics of Farming Systems: A Study on income Maximization in Visakhapatnam district of Andhra Pradesh. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 15(9): 819-830.'),(7531,'165','Field efficacy of Fungicides, Biocontrol Agents, Botanicals and Plant Defence Activators against Maydis Leaf Blight of Maize caused by Bipolaris maydis','Siddu Lakshmi Prasanna, Priya John, Apurvkumar M. Patel, Rathna V. and Sangeeta Sabanna Bhajantri ','Field-efficacy-of-Fungicides,-Biocontrol-Agents,-Botanicals-and-Plant-Defence-Activators-against-Maydis-Leaf-Blight-of-Maize-caused-by-Bipolaris-maydis-Siddu-Lakshmi-Prasanna-140.pdf','',1,'Maydis leaf blight (MLB) of maize is one of the devastating foliar diseases which causes variable losses across the world. The experimental study was carried out to manage maydis leaf blight with fungicides, plant defense activators, botanicals and biocontrol agents in field conditions for two consecutive years during rabi 2020-21 and 2021-22 at Navsari Agricultural university, Gujarat. In the present study various treatments were evaluated in field and among the different fungicidal treatments, foliar spray with trifloxystrobin 25% + tebuconazole 50% WG at 0.05% was found more effective with least per cent disease incidence (PDI) (35.75 %) at 90 days after sowing (DAS) and higher grain yield (56 q/ha) which is at par with propiconazole 25 EC at 0.1 per cent (54.50 q/ha), azoxystrobin 25% EC + difenconazole 25% SC at 0.05 per cent 54.33 q/ha and azoxystrobin 23 SC at 0.1 per cent (52.33 q/ha). Among non-chemical methods, lowest PDI i.e., 45.46 % at 90DAS was recorded when crop was sprayed with salicylic acid (0.75%) which was significantly lower followed by 46.67% in Pseudomonas fluorescens at 0.5% and also higher grain yield (Pooled) was recorded in case of salicylic acid at 0.75% (47.11 q/ha) followed by P. fluorescens at 0.5% (45.67 q/ha).','Maydis leaf blight, Plant Defence activators, Field evaluation, fungicides, botanicals, biocontrol agents, Trichoderma harzianum, Pseudomonas fluorescens','According to the findings from the present study, two sprays, first at disease initiation (40 DAS) and second at 25 days after the first spray with trifloxystrobin (25%) + tebuconazole (50%) at 0.05 per cent recorded significantly lowest disease intensity (28.66 %) with the highest yield (56.00 q/ha) and found to be the most effective for the management of maydis leaf blight disease and increasing grain yield over control. It also concludes that trifloxystrobin (25%) + tebuconazole (50%) at 0.05 per cent was found effective and also other chemical treatments such as propiconazole (25% EC) at 0.1 per cent, azoxystrobin (25% EC) + difenconazole (25% SC) at 0.05 per cent, azoxystrobin (23% SC) at 0.1 per cent, mancozeb (75% WP) at 0.2 per cent which can be used as alternate option because all these treatments were found at par with each other along with integration of non-chemical approaches reduces the environmental hazards and production cost incurred on the farmers.','-','Siddu Lakshmi Prasanna, Priya John, Apurvkumar M. Patel, Rathna V. and Sangeeta Sabanna Bhajantri (2023). Field efficacy of Fungicides, Biocontrol Agents, Botanicals and Plant Defence Activators against Maydis Leaf Blight of Maize caused by Bipolaris maydis. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 15(9): 831-836.'),(7532,'165','Nutrient composition, Mineral Profile, Digestibility, Production Performances and Economics of hydroponic Fodder Maize and Horse gram in Goats','P. Tensingh Gnanaraj, S.Gunasekaran, C. Valli, R.Karunakaran and H.Gopi','Nutrient-composition,-Mineral-Profile,-Digestibility,-Production-Performances-and-Economics-of-hydroponic-141.pdf','',1,'Inadequate availability of green fodder is commonly noticed in livestock feeding. Hydroponic fodder production is an alternative technology to increase green fodder production by vertical farming. Research works on the chemical composition, mineral profile, digestibility, production performances and economics of hydroponic fodder maize and horse gram in goats is scarce and hence a study was conducted to evaluate the nutritional characterization of hydroponic fodders and assess the potential of hydroponic fodders feeding in goats. Significantly (P<0.05) higher crude protein, Nitrogen Free Extract, Neutral Detergent Fibre, hemicellulose was observed in hydroponic fodders compared to their conventional counter parts. Phosphorus sodium, copper and selenium content were significantly (P<0.05) higher in hydroponic fodder maize compared to conventional fodder maize. The DCP (8.23 Vs 4.59; 13.93 Vs 10.12) and TDN (82.08 Vs 60.71; 70.89 Vs 58.68) per cent of hydroponic fodder maize and hydroponic fodder horse gram were significantly (P<0.05) higher than conventional fodder maize and fodder horse gram. The production performance in goats revealed that hydroponic fodder maize and hydroponic fodder horse gram in 3:1 ratio could replace conventional roughage source for growing goats. The cost of feeding per kg live weight gain of goats with hydroponic fodder maize and hydroponic fodder horse gram was much higher than feeding conventional fodder maize and fodder horse gram (146.80 Vs 457.42). Hydroponic fodders cannot be used for routine feeding but only be used as fodder during feed scarcity or calamity period.','Hydroponic fodder maize, Hydroponic fodder horse gram, Minerals, Digestibility trial, Production performance, Economics','The nutritive value of hydroponic fodders viz. fodder maize and fodder horse gram is higher compared to their conventional counterparts as reflected by their higher crude protein. Hydroponic fodder maize and hydroponic fodder horse gram in the ratio of 3: 1 can replace conventional roughage source for growing goats without adversely affecting DMI, body condition, growth rate and Feed Conversion Ratio. \r\nThe cost of feeding per kg live weight gain of goats with hydroponic fodder maize and hydroponic fodder horse gram is much higher than feeding conventional fodder maize and conventional fodder horse gram (INR 351.42 Vs INR 146.80), suggesting that hydroponic fodders cannot be used routinely but only be used as fodder during feed scarcity or calamity period. \r\n','-','P. Tensingh Gnanaraj, S.Gunasekaran, C. Valli, R.Karunakaran and H.Gopi (2023). Nutrient composition, Mineral Profile, Digestibility, Production Performances and Economics of hydroponic Fodder Maize and Horse gram in Goats. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 15(9): 837-845.'),(7533,'165','Evaluation of Technology Dissemination through front line Demonstration on the Yield of Brinjal (Solenum melongena L.) at Korba District (Chhattishgarh)','Archna Banjare, Shani Raj and S.K. Upadhayay ','Evaluation-of-Technology-Dissemination-through-front-line-Demonstration-on-the-Yield-of-Brinjal-(Solenum-melongena-L.)-at-Korba-District-(Chhattishgarh)-Archna-Banjare-142.pdf','',1,'Brinjal also known as eggplant (Solenum melongena L.) is one of the preeminent fruit vegetable in India, which play a crucial role for enhancing the socio-economic status of Korba area farmers. The major constraints of brinjal crop farming is impoverished nursery which responsible to reduce productivity and non-adoption of recommended package of practices including improved varieties. To minimize the discrepancy, Krishi Vigyan Kendra Katghora Korba conducted front line demonstration (FLD) at an adopted farmer’s field during 2020-21 to 2022-23. Cultivation practices adopted under this are improved variety, nursery raising, seedling treatment, transplanting method, balanced fertilizer application and disease and pest control. The trial showed that the average yield ranges between 220.22 to 230.23 q/ha, Technological index upto 12.1%. From a study, it revealed that over the years, variety of Kashi Uttam performed superior over local check. The average gross return ranges between Rs. 220220 to Rs. 230230, net return ranges between Rs. 158050 to Rs. 166434 and B:C ratio found between 3.54 to 3.61 in consecutive years from the demonstration as compared to farmers practices.','Brinjal, FLD, Technology gap, Technology index, Gross return','It may be concluded that the adoption of bettered technologies by farmers can increases the yield potential of brinjal to greater extent and enhance their socio-economic status. Front line demonstration play a significant role in transfer of technology and reaches to farmers field. Adoption of improved technology defiantly upgrade the source of income and reduce the cost of cultivation. The substantially adoption of technology boost up the yield potential of brinjal and help to enhance the income of the farmer. ','-','Archna Banjare, Shani Raj and S.K. Upadhayay (2023). Evaluation of Technology Dissemination through front line Demonstration on the Yield of Brinjal (Solenum melongena L.) at Korba District (Chhattishgarh). Biological Forum – An International Journal, 15(9): 846-849.'),(7534,'165','Green Synthesis of Nanoparticles from Leaves of Cannabis sativa L. and its effect on Seed Germination, Seedling Mortality and wilt incidence of Tomato caused by Fusarium oxysporum f. sp. lycopersici (Sacc.) Snyder & Hansen','Saurabh Kumar, S.K. Biswas, Kishan Lal, Shivam Kumar, Anju Shukla, Anoop Kumar, Siddharth Singh, Shivam, Ankit Kumar and Rahul Kumar','Green-Synthesis-of-Nanoparticles-from-Leaves-of-Cannabis-sativa-L.-and-its-effect-on-Seed-Germination,-Seedling-Mortality-and-wilt-incidence-of-Tomato-caused-by-Fusarium-oxysporum-f.-sp.-Saurabh-Kumar-143.pdf','',1,'Now-a-days, crop pest management totally depends on synthetic agro-chemicals and causes harmful residual effect on human and environmental health. There is a rising demand for eco-friendly non-toxic synthetic biological protocol for the synthesis of nanoparticles. The experiment\'s objective was to create silver nanoparticles from fresh leaves of Cannabis sativa L., characterise them, and test their antifungal properties under in vitro condition. The fungus Fusarium, which is mostly a soil-born pathogen but occasionally also appears on seeds and negatively impacts their viability and germination, is the cause of tomato wilt. Green synthetic nanoparticles greatly enhanced the germination rate and decreased seed mortality in tomato seeds. The highest germination 92.66% found in seed treated with silica nanoparticles at 100 ppm (T12) compared to non-treated plants with the value of 54%. Rest all nanoparticles treated seed was representing superior than non- treated seeds. The minimum seedling mortality as 5.25% was found in T12 (silica NPs 100 ppm) than all treated and non-treated seeds. The disease incidence was decreased over control as 86.66%, 86.00% and 83.32% at 30, 60 and 90 days of pathogen inoculation, respectively was observed in treatment T12. It was established that all plants treated with nanoparticles lower disease incidence than the control. In general, nanoparticles work to combat plant infections by altering root exudates and starting the release of stress hormones. Because of their varied and distinctive mechanisms of action, nanoparticles can suppress pathogens that cause wilt in sustainable manner. ','Nanoparticles, germination, seedling mortality, stress, wilt and pathogen ','On account of eco-friendly, biodegradable, non-chemicals more efficient in nature and the increasing trends of green synthesis nanoparticles in near future may be prove best substitute instead of chemical pesticides against plant disease management. The seed treated with green synthesized nanoparticles was positively raising germination (%) and reduces the mortality percentage of tomato seedling. All plant treated with nanoparticles significantly increased the root, shoot length and total biomass of the plant. The Treatment T12 (silica 100 ppm) treated plant reduces 86.66%, 86.00% and 83.32% disease incidence over the control at 30, 60 and 90 days of pathogen inoculation, respectively. Thus, it is evident from the current evaluation that the use of green synthesis nanoparticles can be employed to manage tomato wilt in sustainable manner.','-','Saurabh Kumar, S.K. Biswas, Kishan Lal, Shivam Kumar, Anju Shukla, Anoop Kumar, Siddharth Singh, Shivam, Ankit Kumar and Rahul Kumar (2023). Green Synthesis of Nanoparticles from Leaves of Cannabis sativa L. and its effect on Seed Germination, Seedling Mortality and wilt incidence of Tomato caused by Fusarium oxysporum f. sp. lycopersici (Sacc.) Snyder & Hansen. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 15(9): 850-855.'),(7535,'165','Exploring Sustainable Approaches to Tea Pest Management: \r\nA Comprehensive Review\r\n','Bidisha H., Gautam K.S. and Kollol P.B. ','Exploring-Sustainable-Approaches-to-Tea-Pest-Management-Bidisha-H-144.pdf','',1,'The tea ecosystem provides an ideal environment for various insect pests and diseases to thrive, with the red spider mite emerging as a significant concern, especially in the Terai, Dooars, and Assam regions. This growing issue has garnered the attention of numerous scientists, and the repeated use of chemical pesticides has adverse effects on made tea, deteriorating its quality and creating a significant challenge in the tea market. To address this challenge, there is a renewed focus on employing non-chemical methods for biological control of tea pests and diseases, including the use of botanicals, Indigenous Technical Knowledge (ITKs), and microbial antagonists. The authors have conducted a comprehensive analysis, revisiting the effectiveness of botanicals in managing tea diseases and pests, with a particular emphasis on the red spider mite. Our efforts aim to bridge the gap between current non-chemical pest management approaches and the evolving requirements of the tea industry, especially in the context of organic tea production. By incorporating bioactive compounds and conducting field studies, we hope to offer innovative and sustainable solutions for pest management in tea plantations.','Botanicals, Tea, Pest, Red Spider Mite, Management','The current research highlights the potential use of botanical substances, either individually or in conjunction with cow urine, for tea pest control. This study suggests that non-chemical approaches, which are already in use by tea growers, could be significantly improved if they are rigorously examined, scientifically validated, and standardized. The continuous reliance on synthetic chemicals and the implementation of ineffective pest control methods have led to a range of adverse consequences, including outbreaks of secondary pests, the possible emergence of pesticide resistance, pest resurgence, environmental contamination, harm to non-target organisms, and the presence of unwanted residue in processed tea. Additionally, this approach can help reduce input costs. Given the present global context, adopting organically-based and environmentally friendly pest management practices represents a viable alternative to mitigate the adverse impacts associated with chemical pesticides.','-','Bidisha H., Gautam K.S. and Kollol P.B. (2023). Exploring Sustainable Approaches to Tea Pest Management: A Comprehensive Review. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 15(9): 856-860.'),(7536,'165','Biology of aphid, Hyadaphis coriandri (Das) on coriander, (Coriandrum sativum L.) under Laboratory conditions','Vijay Kumar, H.L. Deshwal, S.K. Yadav, Mahendra and Manoj Kumar Gurjar ','Biology-of-aphid,-Hyadaphis-coriandri-(Das)-on-coriander,-(Coriandrum-sativum-L.)-under-Laboratory-conditions-LALITA-VERMA-145.pdf','',1,'Aphid, Hyadaphis coriandri, is a well-known and economically significant aphid species that attracts the attention of many professionals in various field. In a laboratory study of the biology of the coriander aphid, H. coriandri (Das), it was discovered that there were four nymphal instars. The duration of the aphid\'s first, second, third, and fourth nymphal instars was 1.50 ± 0.50, 1.25 ± 0.25, 1.00 ± 0.50, and 1.75 ± 0.25 days, respectively, while the length of the entire nymphal stage was 5.75 ± 1.26 days. The aphid\'s pre- reproductive, reproductive, and post-reproductive phases ranged from 1.25 ± 0.76, 5.50 ± 2.54, and 1.50 ± 0.50 days, respectively. Adult aphids lived for a total of 12.25 ± 4.31 days. 5.50 ± 3.55 nymphs might be produced daily by adult females, for a lifetime average of 27.5 ± 17.78 nymphs.','Hyadaphis coriandri, Coriander, Biology, Life cycle, Integrated pest management','The nymphal instars of H. coriandri were completed in four stages. Adult longevity was 8.00 ± 3.04 days and the total nymphal duration was 5.75 ± 1.26 days. The adult female\'s capacity for reproduction was 5.50 ± 3.55 nymphs every day and 27.50 ± 17.78 nymphs per female during the course of her lifetime.','-','Vijay Kumar, H.L. Deshwal, S.K. Yadav, Mahendra and Manoj Kumar Gurjar (2023). Biology of aphid, Hyadaphis coriandri (Das) on coriander, (Coriandrum sativum L.) under Laboratory conditions. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 15(9): 861-863.'),(7537,'165','Standardization of ex vitro Hardening in Traditional Banana Cultivar Karpura Chakkerakeli (AAB) of Andhra Pradesh','Mahesh S.S.N.M., Ramanandam G., Vinaya Kumar Reddy P., Ravindra Kumar K., Umakrishna K. and Salomi Suneetha D.R.','Standardization-of-ex-vitro-Hardening-in-Traditional-Banana-Cultivar-Karpura-Chakkerakeli-(AAB)-of-Andhra-Pradesh-Mahesh-SSNM-146.pdf','',1,'An experiment was conducted on primary hardening in tissue culture banana cv. Karpura Chakkerakeli (AAB) plantlets at Dr. YSRHU-HRS, Kovvur, in the year 2022-23. Banana cv. Karpura Chakkerakeli (AAB) is choicest table variety in Godavari districts of Andhra Pradesh. Poor in vitro root induction and ex vitro survival are the major hindrance for its large scale commercial production. Therefore, the objective of the present investigation was to develop an efficient growth media and different containers for in vitro rooting and ex vitro performance. This experiment was conducted to find out suitable potting mixture and containers on hardening in shade net. In which different potting mixtures of M1-red earth (2) + FYM (1) + coco peat (1), M2- red earth (2) + FYM (1) + rice husk (1), M3- red earth (2) + FYM (1) + sand (1), M4-vermicompost (1) + coco peat (1), M5-vermicompost (1) + rice husk (1), M6 –Vermicompost (1) + sand (1) and two different containers C1- poly bags and C2- disposable plastic glass tested, the maximum Per cent rooting (92.63%), Number of primary root (9.50), Number of secondary roots (26.50) and Length of longest root (13.21) was recorded in M1 × C1 treatment interaction and shows outstanding performances in field condition.','Red earth, Vermicompost, sand, husk, Containers, Karpura Chakkerakeli (AAB)','Red earth and coco peat and FYM in poly bags was the best combination on maximum survival and also good rooting characters viz. percentage of rooting and primary and secondary rooting during hardening period in banana cv. Karpura Chakkarakeli (AAB).','-','Mahesh S.S.N.M., Ramanandam G., Vinaya Kumar Reddy P., Ravindra Kumar K., Umakrishna K. and Salomi Suneetha D.R. (2023). Standardization of ex vitro Hardening in Traditional Banana Cultivar Karpura Chakkerakeli (AAB) of Andhra Pradesh. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 15(9): 864-867.'),(7538,'167','Development of Nutrition Smart Community and Economic Empowerment of CIGs: Experience of KVK, Raichur, Karnataka','Anupama, C., Shwetha, B.N., Shreevani G. N. and Mallika Meti ','Development-of-Nutrition-Smart-Community-and-Economic-Empowerment-of-CIGs-Experience-of-KVK,-Raichur,-Karnataka-B.-Doddabasappa-4.pdf','',1,'An effort was made by Krishi Vigyan Kendra Raichur to address community nutritional security through fresh vegetable juices for health management. KVK Raichur provided technical knowhow as to how to prepare fresh vegetable juices from carrot, bottlegourd, cucumber, bitter gourd, beetroot and Amla. Two interested CIGs came forward to prepare. These two CIGs prepared and sold fresh vegetable juices every day between 5:30 AM to 7:30 AM at UAS campus gate for three months. People coming for morning walk consumed the juices and regular consumers were specially, those people suffering from various health problems such as diabetes, hypertension, gastritis, in the campus. Results of the study revealed that there was a significant positive impact on health as per feedback of the consumers. Eighty percent of the consumers opined that their health problems have been reduced considerably. It was observed there was a significant decrease in their health problems among hypertension, Type II diabetes persons. There was a significant positive impact on their health as perceived by the consumers, their overall health improved, helped to normalize blood pressure, helped to reduce blood sugar level, gave a feeling of happiness and self-care, reduced joint pain, reduced general weakness, increased apatite, improved sleep, helped in easy bowel movement and reduced gastritis problems. In addition to the economic gain of CIGs, their confidence level boosted because of the positive impact, which is a motivational initiative to other unemployed youth in rural India, which will address both economic and nutritional issues of the common man.','Nutritional security, health management, vegetable juices, CIGs','It can be concluded that health drinks such as fresh vegetable juices provide nutritional security to the consumers. This business can be a good income generating activity in addition to development of a nutrition smart community. This business can be taken up by the other unemployed youth in the other parts of the country. In future a longitudinal study can be taken up to study perceived and actual health benefits.','-','-'),(7539,'156','Palladium Catalyzed Cascade Reactions: A Review Study','Mohd Ikhlaq Mir, Nguyen Ngoc Thanh Luan, Tahir Yaqoob, Rizwan Ahamad, Mohammad Shabab Mir and Rubiya Khazir','Palladium-Catalyzed-Cascade-Reactions-A-Review-Study-Mohd-Ikhlaq-Mir-149.pdf','',1,'The Tandem or domino reaction popularly known as the Cascade reaction, are the chemical processes in which numerous bonds are composed in a way without confining intermediates, altering conditions, and without any add on reagents. The very purpose of cascade sequence includes high atom economy and maximum contraction in waste produced due to various chemical procedures, plus work period needed to conduct these processes. Their effectiveness is measured out in terms of how many bonds are constructed in the final course. The d-block metal\'s catalyzed cascade reactions are of particular attraction for the preparation of natural materials as well as in the analogy of a few significant leading structures for the advancement of bioactive materials and are employed for the synthesis of other compounds as well. Several remarkable d-block-Catalyzed cascades reactions were evolved and noted very recently that attracted synthetic chemists all over the world, especially because of their high efficiency and variety. Palladium was considered the most significant metal catalyst in the twentieth century for the transition metal-catalyzed organic transformations including the Heck reaction, Suzuki reaction, and cross-coupling reactions. In this work, we have done a literature review of palladium catalyzed cascade reactions.','Cascade reactions, Synthesis, Pd-catalyzed, Domino-Tandem, Annulation, Suzuki Coupling, Cyclization, Heterocycles, Negishi cross-coupling','In this work, we have pondered and examined the advantages of Pd-catalyzed cascade reaction. We accumulated 100 research papers on Pd-catalyzed cascade reaction and then selected and studied the 30 most relevant of them. Among the many reported methodologies, the palladium-catalyzed synthesis stands out as the most efficient and straight-forward method for preparing heterocyclic compounds likes iso quinolinones. Conducting multiple reactions in a single vessel allows us to create complex molecules from readily available substrates with exceptional efficiency. This approach also reduces the need for additional reagents, separation processes, chemical waste, and overall cost. The products obtained from such cascade reactions hold various functional groups which can further be modified, providing flexibility for additional molecular manipulations.\r\nIn recent years palladium-Catalyzed cascade has caught the attention of many organic chemists because of the versatile nature of Pd-catalyst and the high efficacy rate of cascade reaction is because of their atom economic nature. Here Pd-Catalyzed reaction is used for synthesizing various biologically active compounds like quinoline, isoquinoline, indole, bicyclic dihydrofuran, ethers, fused heterocycles, and many more pharmaceutical agents via tandem allylic substitution, heck coupling, Suzuki coupling, C-H bond, activation, carbonylation, aldol condensation, and multistep annulation.\r\n','-','Mohd Ikhlaq Mir, Nguyen Ngoc Thanh Luan, Tahir Yaqoob, Rizwan Ahamad, Mohammad Shabab Mir and Rubiya Khazir. (2023). Palladium Catalyzed Cascade Reactions: A Review Study. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 15(4): 893-905.'),(7540,'146','A Review on Role of Biotechnology in Agriculture','Shobha N. and Keshamma E.','A-Review-on-Role-of-Biotechnology-in-Agriculture-Keshamma-E-150.pdf','',4,'The increase in human population worldwide has become a major threat to food security. Biotechnology is an interdisciplinary field that deals specifically with many aspects of life with genetically modified medicine, food, global warming and energy production. The agricultural and horticultural sectors are under a lot of pressure because of the rising demand for food, feed, nutrition, and other basic necessities to find solutions to the problems posed by boosting crop productivity. At the same time, we are observing the potential advantages of the revolutions prompted by biotechnology and with utilization of various biotechnological tools, biotechnology has significantly contributed to the achievement of sustainable crop production. Inputs from conventional and biotechnological research have helped to find solutions to some of the problems limiting crop productivity. Crop improvement programs are, however, hampered by factors like a complex genome, a limited genetic base, poor fertility, susceptibility to biotic and a biotic stresses, and a lengthy breeding period for elite cultivars. In this narrative review of literature study, we aimed to describe and delineate on the role of biotechnological applications in the field agriculture. ','Biotechnology, Agriculture, Micropropagation, Next-generation sequencing','In conclusion, genetic transformation, and marker-aided selection and breeding are the key applications of biotechnology in agriculture to address the increasing demands in terms of food security, socio-economic development and promote the conservation, diversification and sustainable use of plant genetic resources. ','-','Shobha N. and Keshamma E. (2023). A Review on Role of Biotechnology in Agriculture. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 15(4): 906-909.'),(7541,'156','A Review on Role of Biotechnology in Agriculture','Shobha N. and Keshamma E. ','A-Review-on-Role-of-Biotechnology-in-Agriculture-Keshamma-E-150.pdf','',1,'The increase in human population worldwide has become a major threat to food security. Biotechnology is an interdisciplinary field that deals specifically with many aspects of life with genetically modified medicine, food, global warming and energy production. The agricultural and horticultural sectors are under a lot of pressure because of the rising demand for food, feed, nutrition, and other basic necessities to find solutions to the problems posed by boosting crop productivity. At the same time, we are observing the potential advantages of the revolutions prompted by biotechnology and with utilization of various biotechnological tools, biotechnology has significantly contributed to the achievement of sustainable crop production. Inputs from conventional and biotechnological research have helped to find solutions to some of the problems limiting crop productivity. Crop improvement programs are, however, hampered by factors like a complex genome, a limited genetic base, poor fertility, susceptibility to biotic and a biotic stresses, and a lengthy breeding period for elite cultivars. In this narrative review of literature study, we aimed to describe and delineate on the role of biotechnological applications in the field agriculture. ','Biotechnology, Agriculture, Micropropagation, Next-generation sequencing','In conclusion, genetic transformation, and marker-aided selection and breeding are the key applications of biotechnology in agriculture to address the increasing demands in terms of food security, socio-economic development and promote the conservation, diversification and sustainable use of plant genetic resources. ','-','Shobha N. and Keshamma E. (2023). A Review on Role of Biotechnology in Agriculture. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 15(4): 906-909.'),(7542,'163','Earthworms as an Ecosystem Engineers in Urban Landscape','Akhila A. and Keshamma E.','Earthworms-as-an-Ecosystem-Engineers-in-Urban-Landscape-Keshamma-E-90.pdf','',1,'The preservation of healthy soil is essential to the existence of the global ecosystem. Earthworms are an important soil taxon as ecosystem engineers, providing a variety of crucial ecosystem functions and services. Even though the majority of earthworms reside at or below the soil\'s surface, other factors can affect their habitat selection. Climate and vegetation are two important factors. In general, earthworms don\'t thrive in extremely cold or dry environments. The native forests and tussock grasslands are home to earthworms, while introduced species are more frequently found in cultivated soils like pasture, cropland, and lawns. The position of the species within its habitat, or niche, is a more precise way to describe where earthworms live. The geographic range and ecological function that make up a species\' niche are both important. Earthworms take advantage of conditions that are most favorable to their survival by occupying a particular niche. Although all earthworms have common characteristics, features like size, pigmentation (skin colour) and quickness of movement reflect which niche different species occupy. Soil-dwelling earthworms fall into three main niche groupings: compost and soil-surface dwellers (epigeic), top-soil dwellers (endogeic) and deep-burrowing subsoil dwellers (anecic). Engineered soils provide numerous ecosystem services in urban landscapes, such as water regulation and plant growth. They are constructed to optimize soil physicochemical properties but their biological properties are given little consideration. In particular, earthworm communities may be highly impacted by soil engineering processes and soil isolation caused by asphalted surfaces separating soils, and in particular roadside soils, from pseudo-natural soils. Engineering processes define the soil\'s ability to host earthworms, and soil isolation defines soil ability to be colonized from nearby environments. Considering the contribution of earthworms to the provision of ecosystem services, both soil engineering and soil isolation should be taken into account to optimize their development in landscapes.','Earthworm, Landscaping, Ecosystem, Soil engineering, Bioindicator','The presence of earthworms in the soil reveals a lot about the condition of the soil. One of the most significant detritivores, these ecosystem engineers control soil fertility and plant growth directly through their activity. They have the potential to function as bioindicators of soil health in addition to changing the physical, chemical, and biological properties of the soil. ','-','Akhila A. and Keshamma E. (2023). Earthworms as an Ecosystem Engineers in Urban Landscape. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 15(5a): 574-579.'),(7543,'147','Effect of Humic Acid and Nutrients on various Quantitative Attributes of African Marigold (Tagetes erecta L.) cv. Inca Yellow','Pragnya Paramita Mishra, Sashikala Beura, Rajalaxmi Beura, Manas Ranjan Nath and Sadhana Swastika ','Effect-of-Humic-Acid-and-Nutrients-on-various-Quantitative-Attributes-of-African-Marigold-(Tagetes-erecta-L.)-cv.-Inca-Yellow-Sashikala-Beura-134.pdf','',1,'In marigold, the production of high quality flowers is largely influenced by various essential plant nutrients and biostimulants. These inputs effectively contribute towards the overall growth and development and facilitate the significant organic processes within the plant. With this objective, an investigation was carried out in two consecutive years, viz., 2018-19 and 2019-20 at the Floriculture Research Field of the Department of Floriculture and Landscaping in the Biotechnology-cum-Tissue Culture Centre (BTCC) premises, College of Agriculture, Odisha University of Agriculture and Technology (OUAT), Bhubaneswar, Odisha. The aim of this study was to find out the individual and combined influence of various nutrients (0.4% MgSO4, 0.4% ZnSO4, and 0.2% Borax) and a biostimulant (0.2% Humic Acid) on the floral, postharvest, and yield attributes of African marigold cv. Inca Yellow. The research findings revealed that foliar application of a combination of 0.2% Humic Acid and 0.4% MgSO4 exhibited maximum flower diameter (8.83 cm), flower weight (15.02 g) as well as highest yield per plant (364.20 g). Furthermore, longest bloom life (24.67 days) was recorded with the foliar application of 0.2% Humic Acid, and maximum flowering duration with 0.2 % Borax. The shelf life of flowers was found to be best with the spray of a combination of 0.2% Humic Acid, 0.4% MgSO4 and 0.2% Borax, although there was no significant difference among the treatments.','Tagetes erecta, nutrients, humic acid, flower quality, yield','The best treatment for most ofthe attributes under study was found to be the combined foliar application of 0.4% magnesium sulphate and 0.2% Humic acid. Utilizing a combination of nutrients and biostimulants in plant cultivation reduces the need for chemical fertilizers, leading to improved soil health and fostering vigorous crop development. This blend of nutrients and biostimulantis advisable for flower growers involved in the loose flower production as well as the potted plant sector. ','-','Pragnya Paramita Mishra, Sashikala Beura, Rajalaxmi Beura, Manas Ranjan Nath and Sadhana Swastika (2022). Effect of Humic Acid and Nutrients on Various Quantitative Attributes of African Marigold (Tagetes erecta L.) cv. Inca Yellow. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 14(4a): 789-793.'),(7544,'165','Effect of Nitrogen and Sulphur Levels on Quality Parameter of Mustard [Brassica juncea (L.)]','Ashish Kumar Sharma, P.K. Sharma, Divyangi Samuchia, Anchal Karol, Lokesh Kumar Bairwa, Karan Singh Meena and Anju Kanwar Khangarot ','Effect-of-Nitrogen-and-Sulphur-Levels-on-Quality-Parameter-of-Mustard-[Brassica-juncea-(L.)]-Ashish-Kumar-Sharma-147.pdf','',1,'A research trial was conducted at Research Farm, Vivekananda Global University, Jaipur during Rabi season of 2018-19, to know the effect of nitrogen and sulphur on quality and yield of mustard [Brassica juncea (L.)]. The experiment was performed according to randomized block design with three replications. The treatments consisting of 9 treatment combinations viz., 125% RDN + Sulphur 10 kg ha-1 (T1), 125% RDN + Sulphur 20 kg ha-1 (T2), 125% RDN+ Sulphur 30 kg ha-1 (T3), 100% RDN + Sulphur 10 kg ha-1 (T4), 100% RDN+ Sulphur 20 kg ha-1 (T5), 100% RDN + Sulphur 20 kg ha-1 (T5) 100% RDN + Sulphur 30 kg ha-1 (T6), 75% RDN + Sulphur 10 kg ha-1 (T7), 75% RDN + Sulphur 20 kg ha-1 (T8) and 75% RDN + Sulphur 30 kg ha-1 (T9) were applied to the mustard var. Laxmi (RH-8812). Results revealed that various nitrogen and sulphur treatments considerably boosted mustard\'s quality and yield. With the application of 125% of the recommended nitrogen dose plus 30 kg of sulphur per hectare (T3), the maximum nutrient content (N and S) in seed and stover, nutrient uptake (N and S) in seed and stover, protein content (%) in seed, oil content in seed and oil yield of mustard were achieved. As a result, this treatment was advised for achieving best quality with increased yield.','Economics, Mustard, Nitrogen, Sulphur, Quality and Yield','The impact of nitrogen and sulphur application on quality parameter and yield was highly significant in mustard. The present study found consistent evidence that the application of nitrogen and sulphur offers substantial agronomic and economic advantages. Based on the results of one year experimentation it may be concluded that for higher profitability and productivity, the mustard crop should be supplied 125% recommended dose of nitrogen + 30 kg sulphur ha-1 as it provides the maximum values of nutrient content (N and S) in seed and stover, nutrient uptake (N and S) in seed and stover, protein content (%) in seed, oil content in seed and oil yield so 125% recommended dose of nitrogen + 30 kg sulphur ha-1 was found suitable for farmer practices on the basis of Best quality and yield of this treatment.','-','Ashish Kumar Sharma, P.K. Sharma, Divyangi Samuchia, Anchal Karol, Lokesh Kumar Bairwa, Karan Singh Meena and Anju Kanwar Khangarot (2023). Effect of Nitrogen and Sulphur Levels on Quality Parameter of Mustard [Brassica juncea (L.)]. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 15(9): 868-871.'),(7545,'165','Identification of Novel Genotypes Suitable for Processing in Tomato (Solanum lycopersicum L.) using Genetic variability Studies and Principal component Analysis','Ramavath Ramesh Babu, Prasanna H.C., J.S. Aravinda Kumar, Jyothi Kattegoudar, Ranjitha K., S. Sriram, R.H. Laxman, K.V. Ravi Shankar and C.N. Hanchinamani','Identification-of-Novel-Genotypes-Suitable-for-Processing-in-Tomato-(Solanum-lycopersicum-L.)-using-Genetic-variability-Studies-and-Principal-component-AnalysisRamavath-Ramesh-Babu-148.pdf','',1,'This study used twenty one tomato genotypes and two check varieties and observations were taken for two seasons. Analysis of the coefficient of variation revealed that the magnitude of the PCV was slightly higher than the GCV for all the studied traits. Further, high estimates of heritability and genetic gain were recorded for lycopene and yield per plant. Twenty two components were identified based on the PCA with 24 attributes, although 7 PCs had more than 1 eigen value and 83.01% variability. Thus, suggesting that traits such as days to first fruit ripening, yield per plant and number of locules per fruit highest eigen vectors and factor loadings are responsible for genetic variability and divergence indicating that there is sufficient variation for the morphological traits observed in this principal component in the tomato parental lines that could be used to improve tomato cultivars for these traits.','Genetic variability, GCV, PCV, heritability, genetic advance, PCA, principal component analysis, morphological, biochemical traits','The analysis of 21 parental lines and 2 check varieties of tomatoes revealed a wide range of variability for different morphological and biochemical traits. Parental lines used were completely determinate, which will reduce the number of harvests, unlike semi-determinate. Days to 50% flowering, days to first fruit ripening, pericarp thickness, number of locules and number of seeds per fruit, size of core in fruit cross-section, yield per plant, TSS, fruit firmness, titrable acidity, lycopene, pH, pulp recovery, carotenoids, and shelf life are the most significant traits for which direct selection may result in appreciable improvement in selecting superior tomato genotypes.\r\nThe present data was divided into twenty-two principal components. Out of twenty two factors, the first seven principal components PC1, PC2, PC3, PC4, PC5, PC6 and PC7 showed eigenvalues of more than one and cumulatively they explained 83.01% variability, thus suggesting that traits such as fruit weight, fruit width, size of core in fruit cross section, pulp recovery, days to first fruit ripening, moisture content, yield per plant, number of fruits per plant and number of locules per fruit with highest eigen vectors and factor loadings were the principal differentiating traits. So, while applying these traits in a tomato breeding program, it is important to consider the crucial traits that combine information from many PCs and contribute to phenotypic diversity. Based on the findings of the aforementioned study, the genotypes such as PED, IIHR-2833, IIHR-2955, IIHR-2821, IIHR-Sel-57, IIHR-2327-1, IIHR-2273, IIHR-Sel-41-1, IIHR-Sel-19, IIHR-Sel-22, CLN3916C, CLN3916D, IIHR-2411-2 and IIHR-TLBER-7-4-11-34 were considered as best performers with good processing quality.\r\n','-','Ramavath Ramesh Babu, Prasanna H.C., J.S. Aravinda Kumar, Jyothi Kattegoudar, Ranjitha K., S. Sriram, R.H. Laxman, K.V. Ravi Shankar and C.N. Hanchinamani (2023). Identification of Novel Genotypes Suitable for Processing in Tomato (Solanum lycopersicum L.) using Genetic variability Studies and Principal component Analysis. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 15(9): 872-881.'),(7546,'165','Bio-Efficacy of different Botanical extracts against Fusarium oxysporum f. sp. lentis, causing lentil wilt under in-vitro condition','Karan Singh, Meenu Kumari Meena, C.B. Meena, Chirag Gautam and Hemant Gurjar','Bio-Efficacy-of-different-Botanical-extracts-against-Fusarium-oxysporum-f.-sp.-lentis,-causing-lentil-wilt-under-in-vitro-condition-Karan-Singh-149.pdf','',1,'Present investigation was undertaken for bio-efficacy of aqueous botanical extracts of eight different non-host plants viz., Azadirachta indica (NSKE), Azadirachta indica (Leaves), Osimum sanctum (Leaves), Datura stramonium (Leaves), Calotropis procera (Leaves), Lantana camara (Leaves), Nerium oleander (Leaves) and Parthenium histrophorus (Leaves) at 5, 10 and 20% concentration were evaluated against Fusarium oxysporum f. sp. lentis, causing lentil wilt through poison food technique on potato dextrose agar medium. The result revealed that Among all eight botanical extracts, extract of Osimum sanctum (Leaves) was found most effective in inhibiting mycelial growth (21.48, 30.93 and 45.19 %) of F. orysporum f. sp. lentis at 5, 10 and 20 percent, respectively followed by Azadirachta indica (NSKE) extract (19.26, 28.52 and 41.85%) over control at all the concentrations tested after 168 hrs. of inoculation. At 5 per cent concentration Calotropis procera (Leaves) and Azadirachta indica (Leaves) were found at par with 10.74% and 12.96% mycelial growth inhibition, respectively, Extract of Parthenium histrophorus (Leaves) was found least effective in inhibiting mycelial growth of Fusariumo xysporum f. sp. lentis over control 4.07, 10.93 and 17.59 at 5, 10 and 20 percent concentration, respectively.','Botanical extracts, Neem Seeds Kernel Extract (NSKE), Fusarium orysporum f. sp. lentis, Poison food technique','Botanical’s control is very important aspects to minimize cost of cultivation and to avoid environment pollution and health hazards. The result revealed that Among all eight botanical extracts, extract of Osimum sanctum (Leaves) was found most effective in inhibiting mycelial growth (21.48, 30.93 and 45.19 %) of F. orysporum f. sp. lentis at 5, 10 and 20 percent, respectively followed by Azadirachta indica (NSKE) extract (19.26, 28.52 and 41.85%) over control at all the concentrations tested after 168 hrs. The results however need field evaluation before these recommended to farmers.','-','Karan Singh, Meenu Kumari Meena, C.B. Meena, Chirag Gautam and Hemant Gurjar (2023). Bio-Efficacy of different Botanical extracts against Fusarium oxysporum f. sp. lentis, causing lentil wilt under in-vitro condition.. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 15(9): 882-886.'),(7547,'163','Surface Protection of Steel in Acid Medium by Flacourtia jangomas extract : Phytochemicals and Surface Study Evidence for Adsorption of Inhibitor','Pinky Sisodia, Renu Singh and S. Khalid Hasan ','Surface-Protection-of-Steel-in-Acid-Medium-by-Flacourtia-jangomas-extract--Phytochemicals-and-Surface-Study-Evidence-for-Adsorption-of--Inhibitor-Pinky-Sisodia-91.pdf','',1,'We present the evaluation of eco-friendly corrosion inhibitor for the corrosion mitigation of mild steel using extract of leaves, roots and stem bark of coffee plum (Flacourtia jangomas) in 1M HCl solution was investigated by weight loss method at 30°C. The corrosion inhibition of mild steel by ethanol extracts coffee plum (Flacourtia jangomas) and some of its isolated phytochemical components; saponins extract, and flavonoids extracts have been studied using gravi-metric techniques. The surface of mild steel was examined by scanning electron microscopy (SEM) and Atomic force microscopy (AFM) techniques. The results of the study reveal that these ecofriendly extracts function as good inhibitors for mild steel corrosion in hydrochloric acid. Inhibition efficiency of the extracts increases with inhibitor concentration and temperature rise. Corrosion rate decreased significantly in presence of extract and inhibition efficiency increased with increasing concentration of extract. Inhibition efficiency performance followed the trend Leaf extract > Root extract > Stem Bark extract at 5% inhibitor concentration. No considerable changes in inhibition efficiency were observed above 5% in all the cases. The decreased corrosion rate and adsorption behavior have been explained by Langmuir, Temkin and Freundlich adsorption isotherm. The constituents responsible for inhibition were identified by Phytochemical analysis and Fourier Transform Infrared Spectroscopy FTIR spectroscopy.','Coffee plum (Flacourti jangomas), corrosion inhibitor, mild steel, AFM, SEM, weight loss, Langmuir, Temkin isotherm, FTIR','1) The FT-IR results demonstrate that the target compounds had been synthesized successfully.\r\n2) The inhibition efficiency of FJ extract in a 1 M HCl solution at room temperature was evaluated by weight loss method. The data of the weight loss experiments indicate that the inhibition efficiency increases with increasing inhibitor concentration.\r\n3) Surface analyses including FT-IR, AFM and SEM confirmed the protective effect of these inhibitors.\r\n4) The result showed that corrosion rate was significantly decreased in presence of the extract and percent inhibition efficiency increased with increasing the concentration of extract. 98.1% inhibition efficiency was found in 1M HCl.\r\n5)The decreased corrosion rate was due to adsorption of plant extract which was discussed on the basis of Langmuir, Freundlich and Temkin adsorption isotherm.\r\nLeaf extract > Root extract > Stem Bark extract \r\n','-','Pinky Sisodia, Renu Singh and S. Khalid Hasan (2023). Surface Protection of Steel in Acid Medium by Flacourtia Jangomas extract : Phytochemicals and Surface study Evidence for Adsorption of Inhibitor. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 15(5a): 580-586.'),(7548,'165','Novel Green Approach for the Synthesis of Nano biochar using Plant Resources and Botanical Extracts','Rihana Rahman, Javid Ahmad Sofi, Nayar Afaq Kirmani, Ghulam Irshad Hassan Dar, Nageena Nazir, Sheikh Amjid, Tariq Ahmad Sofi, Neelofar Banday, Shaista Nazir, Shahnawaz Rasool Dar, Raqib Majeed Wani and Muneer Ahmad Bhat','Novel-Green-Approach-for-the-Synthesis-of-Nano-biochar-using-Plant-Resources-and-Botanical-Extracts-Sheikh-Amjid-150.pdf','',1,'This experiment was carried out in 2021-2022 to synthesize nano biochar using Mint (Mentha piperita) and Nettle Extract (Urtica diocia). Three different biochar materials (Apple twig, Maize stalk and Walnut shell) were subjected to pyrolysis at 400°C for 1 hour. Green synthesis methods, employing plant extracts, were employed as eco-friendly alternatives to physical and chemical methods. Characterization of the synthesized nano biochars was conducted using SEM (Scanning electron microscopy), XRD (X-ray powder diffraction), and FT-IR (Fourier transform infra-red spectroscopy). SEM analysis revealed that nano biochars produced from Mint extract had average sizes of 50.0 nm to 148.0 nm, 68.0 nm to 112.0 nm, 70.0 to 155.0 nm with average size 85.8 nm, 92.4 nm and 105.2 nm for Apple twig, Maize stalk, and Walnut shell nano biochars, respectively. While those synthesized from nettle extract had average sizes of 78.0 to 120.0 nm, 50.0 to 100.0 nm and 50.0 to 140.0 nm with an average size of 97.8, 81.6 and 95.0 nm. These nano biochars exhibited various shapes, including spherical, cylindrical, plate-like, and flattened, as confirmed by SEM analysis. XRD analysis established their crystalline nature. FTIR study indicated alterations in functional groups among all biochars, highlighting the impact of plant extracts on their composition and properties. This work offers a quick, simple and non-toxic method for the synthesis of nano biochar.','Nano biochar, Green synthesis, Plant extracts, Pyrolytic temperature, SEM, XRD, FT-IR','Green synthesis of Nanobiochar using Mint and Nettle extract showed average particle size of 85.8, 86.6 nm for Apple twig biochar, 80, 82.2 nm for Maize stalk biochar and 105.2,95 nm for Walnut shell biochar confirmed by SEM, XRD and FT-IR. Also, the crystalline structure was observed by XRD. This innovative approach to synthesizing nano biochar through biological means, utilizing Mint and Nettle extracts, holds significant promise for promoting environmentally friendly and sustainable agricultural practices. Beyond its agricultural applications, this method could find broader utility as a dosimeter across various fields, reflecting its versatility and potential to contribute to eco-conscious solutions in multiple industries. The utilization of natural extracts for nano biochar synthesis represents a noteworthy step toward greener and more responsible technological advancements.','-','Rihana Rahman, Javid Ahmad Sofi, Nayar Afaq Kirmani, Ghulam Irshad Hassan Dar, Nageena Nazir, Sheikh Amjid, Tariq Ahmad Sofi, Neelofar Banday, Shaista Nazir, Shahnawaz Rasool Dar, Raqib Majeed Wani and Muneer Ahmad Bhat (2023). Novel Green Approach for the Synthesis of Nano biochar using Plant Resources and Botanical Extracts. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 15(9): 887-892.'),(7549,'165','Comparative Analysis of Physicochemical Parameters in Enriched and Unenriched Farmyard Manure','Shantha Murthy B., Sathish A., Saralakumari J., Umashankar N. and Seenappa C.','Comparative-Analysis-of-Physicochemical-Parameters-in-Enriched-and-Unenriched-Farmyard-Manure-Shantha-Murthy-B-151.pdf','',1,'The non-enriched FYM may contribute to a less dynamic and resilient soil ecosystem, potentially necessitating increased reliance on synthetic fertilizers and pesticides hence, in this study, FYM underwent an enrichment process using a liquid microbial consortium. Unenriched FYM had slightly lowered moisture (41.21%) due to reduced bulk density. Enrichment with microbes raised moisture (42.32%) and slightly increased electrical conductivity. \r\nTotal organic carbon remained stable, but nitrogen and phosphorus increased post-enrichment. Potassium, calcium, and magnesium stayed unchanged. Enrichment notably raised sulfur, zinc, and boron levels and slightly increased copper, manganese, iron, and nickel. No cadmium or leads were found, while chromium and nickel were below Indian standards.\r\nEnriching FYM with microbes boosts nutrient availability, soil health, and crop yields. It enhances organic matter decomposition, fostering a diverse microbial community for improved soil structure and nutrient cycling. This practice increases soil carbon, aiding water retention capacity. In essence, enriching FYM with microbial consortia is a cost-effective; eco-friendly means to enhance soil fertility, crop productivity, and long-term agricultural sustainability.\r\n','Organic carbon, FYM, crop productivity, soil fertility','Enriching farmyard manure (FYM) with a liquid microbial consortium is a proven, sustainable agricultural practice. The process significantly improves soil properties, including increased moisture content, electrical conductivity, and enriched essential nutrients like nitrogen and phosphorus. This cost-effective strategy not only enhances nutrient availability but also promotes a diverse microbial community, contributing to improved soil structure, enhanced water retention, and increased crop yields ultimately supporting long-term agricultural sustainability.','-','Shantha Murthy B., Sathish A., Saralakumari J., Umashankar N. and Seenappa C. (2023). Comparative Analysis of Physicochemical Parameters in Enriched and Unenriched Farmyard Manure. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 15(9): 893-896.'),(7550,'165','Bio-efficacy of Newer Acaricides and Botanical against Red Spider Mite, Tetranychus urticae Koch. in Brinjal','Rahul Patidar, G.S. Chundawat, Sanju Singh, Swarna Kurmi and Neelesh Raipuriya','Bio-efficacy-of-Newer-Acaricides-and-Botanical-against-Red-Spider-Mite,-Tetranychus-urticae-Koch.-in-Brinjal-Rahul-Patidar-152.pdf','',1,'Field studies were undertaken at K.V.K Research Farm, Mandsaur, M.P. to study the Bio-efficacy of newer Acaricides and Botanical against red spider mite during 2020-2021. During the course of investigation Spiromesifen 22.90 % SC @ 400 ml/ha found most effective treatment and it recorded the lowest (2.74) adults followed by Fenazaquin 10 % SC @ 400 ml/ha (3.16) and Fenpropathrin 30 % EC @ 250 ml/ha (3.56) but superior to control (12.25) during both years. The data of percentage increase in yield over untreated control obtained with application of Spiromesifen 22.90 % SC @ 400 ml/ha recorded the highest 34.42 % increase over untreated control. Selection of specific acaricides for the control of red spider mites is difficulties, so that these studies are helpful for the selection of acaricides in Malwa region for the control of red spider mites. ','Red Spider Mite, Brinjal, Bio-efficacy and Acaricides','The efficacy of different acaricides was tested against red spider mite, T. urticae infesting brinjal under the field conditions. Among all the available acaricides, the treatment comprise with Spiromesifen 22.90 % SC @ 400 ml/ha was found most superior and higher marketable fruit yield of brinjal and it was followed by Fenazaquin 10 % SC @ 400 ml/ha and Fenpropathrin 30 % EC @ 250 ml/ha. ','-','Rahul Patidar, G.S. Chundawat, Sanju Singh, Swarna Kurmi and Neelesh Raipuriya (2023). Bio-efficacy of Newer Acaricides and Botanical against Red Spider Mite, Tetranychus urticae Koch. in Brinjal. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 15(9): 897-901.'),(7551,'165','Eco-friendly Management of Colletotrichum capsici (Syd.) Butler and Bisby - The Incitant of Anthracnose of Chilli','Prashant Padghan, Bholanath Mondal and Rajendra Gade ','Eco-friendly-Management-of-Colletotrichum-capsici-(Syd.)-Butler-and-Bisby---The-Incitant-of-Anthracnose-of-Chilli-Prashant-Padghan-153.pdf','',1,'Aiming to develop more efficient and environmental friendly methods than existing one to manage Colletotrichum capsici, which causes anthracnose of chilli. The study investigate to search appropriate natural management by using some organic materials against anthracnose (Colletotrichum capsici) of chilli. The bioagents viz. Trichoderma spp, Bacillus spp and Pseudomonas spp were found effective against test pathogen. Among them, Trichoderma hamatum was found most effective and recorded highest percent mycelial inhibition (77.03 %) followed by T. koningii, (74.07 %), T. harzianum (67.77 %), T. asperellum (60.74 %) and Bacillus subtilis (59.63 %). The least mycelial growth of the fungus is recorded in Pseudomonas fluorescens (50.00 %) respectively. The plant extracts viz., Neem, Tulsi, Marigold, Parthenium, Drumstick and Lantana (each @ 5 and 10%) and essential oils viz., Neem, Lemon grass, Thyme, Winter green, Eucalyptus and Cinnamon oil (each @ 0.1 and 0.05 %) were evaluated against the C. capsici. The result revealed that, essential oils viz., Thyme oil, Eucalyptus oil, lemon grass oil (each @ 0.05 and 0.1 %) and Cinnamon oil at 0.1 % concentration was highly effective as cent percent inhibition was achieved followed by Cinnamon oil (88.51 %), neem oil (55.55 %), Winter green oil (66.66 %) with the maximum percent mycelial growth inhibition over the untreated control. The plant extract of Neem was found to be effective and showed growth inhibition percent at 10 and 5 percent conc. was 40.00 and 32.97 percent respectively, followed by Tulsi with growth inhibition percent 27.41 and 21.48 at 10 and 5 percent conc. respectively. The minimum growth inhibition was recorded in case of the Lantana with 14.08 and 21.11 percent at 5 and 10 percent conc. respectively. So, organic management might be a better option to control anthracnose of Chilli and also having environment friendly.','Chilli anthracnose, Colletotrichum capsici, Ecofriendly management, Essential oils, Plant extract, Bioagent','From present study, it was concluded that the sternness of anthracnose of chilli disease can significantly be reduced by the use of bioagents, Trichoderma hamatum was found most effective and recorded highest percent mycelial inhibition. The result revealed that, essential oils viz., Thyme oil, Eucalyptus oil, lemon grass oil (each @ 0.05 and 0.1 %) and Cinnamon oil at 0.1 % concentration was highly effective and also the plant extract of Neem was found to be effective against the pathogen. Recently there has been great interest in essential oils and biocontrol agents for controlling plant pathogens. Now the study shows that botanicals possess antifungal activity and can be exploited for effective management of plant diseases. ','-','Prashant Padghan, Bholanath Mondal and Rajendra Gade (2023). Eco-friendly Management of Colletotrichum capsici (Syd.) Butler and Bisby - The Incitant of Anthracnose of Chilli. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 15(9): 902-907.'),(7552,'163','A Green Approach for Synthesis of Alkyl Levulinates as a Biofuel component from Biomass derived Levulinic Acid by Mineral Acid','Somwanshi A.R.','A-Green-Approach-for-Synthesis-of-Alkyl-Levulinates-as-a-Biofuel-component-from-Biomass-derived-Levulinic-Acid-by-Mineral-Acid-Somwanshi-AR-92.pdf','',1,'Levulinic acid as a versatile and important promising biomass derived platform chemical can be converted into value added chemicals (VAC). As the presence of attractive functionalities in Levulinic acid (LA) i.e., Carbonyl (-CO-) group and (-COOH) group so synthetically it will be useful for the organic transformations process like esterification of levulinic acid to formed alkyl levulinates hydrogenation followed by cyclization to formed GVL. These products can be utilized as a biofuel additive. So, in present work we have synthesized various alkyl levulinates from Levulinic acid via. mineral acid (H2SO4) from lower aliphatic alcohol to higher alcohols like (methyl alcohol, ethyl alcohol, n-propyl alcohol, n-butyl alcohol, n-pentyl alcohol, n-hexyl alcohol, n-heptyl alcohol and n-octyl alcohol). The structural analysis of levulinates were confirmed by 1H NMR and molecular weight of these derivatives was confirmed by GCMS analysis.','Esterification, alkyl levulinates, Value added compounds, biofuel additives, extraction method, higher alcohols','In summary, we have confirmed the esterification of levulinic acid to methyl-, ethyl-, n-propyl- and n-butyl levulinates by reaction with methyl alcohol, ethyl alcohol, 1-propanol,1-butanol,1-pentanol,1-hexanol and 1-octanol the levulinates can used as biofuel component and its miscible in neat diesel with (5-7%). In synthetic path the separation of product was done by simple extraction process with two solvent and brine solutions. Here we have used ethyl acetate (Ester extracting solvent) and water to remove the excess mineral acid.\r\nThis esterification reaction of biomass derived levulinic acid is promising and efficient protocol to synthesize the different alkyl levulinates from higher to lower alcohols. Which is having wide application in many other fields.\r\n','-','Somwanshi A.R. (2023). A Green Approach for Synthesis of Alkyl Levulinates as a Biofuel component from Biomass derived Levulinic Acid by Mineral Acid. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 15(5a): 587-591.'),(7553,'165','Evaluation of different spacing and Irrigation Regimes on Nutrient uptake of spring’s Baby Corn','Anu, Shweta, Karmal Singh, Dinesh and Arun ','Evaluation of different spacing and Irrigation Regimes on Nutrient uptake of spring’s Baby Corn-Anu-154.pdf','',1,'Evaluation of different spacing and Irrigation Regimes on Nutrient uptake of spring’s Baby Corn','Baby corn, spacing, irrigation, nutrient, nitrogen','According to the findings of the study, three irrigation at 6 leaf, knee-high and pre-tasseling stage significantly increased nutrient uptake in plants as compared to other treatments. Additionally, 45 × 15 cm spacing treatment having a significant impact on crop yields, protein content and nutrient uptake when compared to other spacing treatments.','-','Anu, Shweta, Karmal Singh, Dinesh and Arun (2023). Evaluation of different spacing and Irrigation Regimes on Nutrient uptake of spring’s Baby Corn. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 15(9): 908-912.'),(7554,'163','Development and Biological Evaluation Transdermal Hydrogel for the Controlled Delivery of Curcumin against Atopic Dermatitis Management: In-Vitro and In-Vivo Studies','Umakant Sharma, Dindayal Patidar and Neeraj Sharma ','Development-and-Biological-Evaluation-Transdermal-Hydrogel-for-the-Controlled-Delivery-of-Curcumin-against-Atopic-Dermatitis-Management-In-Vitro-and-In-Vivo-Studies-Umakant-Sharma-93.pdf','',1,'Targeting atopic dermatitis has always been a challenging task due to complex genetic phenomena and conflicting biochemical microenvironments. Drug delivery via the skin against atopic dermatitis is always been the priority based mechanism due to patient compliance and low local toxicity. By utilising lauric acid as the plasticizer, a transdermal chitosan sodium alginate biodegradable polymer mix hydrogel (CCHL) has been developed to improve the biotherapeutic properties of curcumin. Utilizing lauric acid at an optimised concentration for the physicochemical and thermostable formulation, the CCHL was prepared utilising the cold technique. When developing the biologically stable hydrogel, the optimised hydrogel was physiologically assessed using in vitro cell uptake, cell viability, and apoptosis assays for a complete toxicological and biologically safe margin description. The MTT assay and Apoptosis study of the produced hydrogel revealed qualitative results that were physicochemical and biologically compatible, demonstrating the considerable curcumin occupancy on human dermal fibroblast cell. By virtue of the anti-AD action, bio-pharmacokinetic parameters, histopathology and skin erythema impact, the in vivo DNCB based animal experiments revealed that the produced hydrogel was physiologically safe for on transdermal distribution. Overall, the current work successfully established regulated curcumin transdermal administration as a unique route to physiologically safe nanotherapy in a clinical setting. Additionally transdermal anti AD targeting comprehending natural model drug and eco-friendly delivery carrier made possibilities more contingent for the futuristic management of AD and its treatment. ','Hydrogel, Transdermal, in-vitro cell line, toxicology, In-vivo','The results demonstrate the qualitative penetrating potential of biodegradable cationic chitosan loaded curcumin hydrogel offering pH triggered and charge rebound innate mechanism enabling microenvironment dependent anti AD therapeutic effect and improving curcumin release with decreased local cellular toxicity. As shown by in vitro cell line studies and hematological studies therapeutic transdermal targeting evaluation, ionic interaction and EPR dependent absorption of CCHL enable onsite targeting and subsequent toxicity on HDF cell line, lowering atopic dermatitis infection burden on skin area. Discovering a unique transdermal biodegradable therapy with harmless constituent’s usage the advanced in-vivo evaluation showed increased diffusion of CCHL and optimal retention at the targeted dermatitis location with negligible cellular toxicity at low dose of curcumin. The fabricated hydrogel demonstrated the most extreme Anti-AD specificity with lowered dose and duration, improving therapeutic efficacy for atopic dermatitis patients with increased skin rehabilitations rate, and paving the way for simple and effective clinical transdermal nanotherapy against atopic dermatitis.','-','Umakant Sharma, Dindayal Patidar and Neeraj Sharma (2023). Development and Biological Evaluation Transdermal Hydrogel for the Controlled Delivery of Curcumin against Atopic Dermatitis Management: In-Vitro and In-Vivo Studies. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 15(5a): 592-602.'),(7555,'165','Screening of Chilli germplasms for Resistance Against Soil Borne Pathogen Ralstonia solanacearum causing Bacterial Wilt','Thilak J.C., Ajjappalavara P.S., Ganiger V.M., Sandhyarani N., Ramangouda S.H., Abdul Kareem M. and Vinutha D.B. ','Screening-of-Chilli-germplasms-for-Resistance-Against-Soil-Borne-Pathogen-Ralstonia-solanacearum-causing-Bacterial-Wilt-Thilak-J-C-155.pdf','',1,'Bacterial wilt caused by Ralstonia solanacearum is one of the most serious soil borne disease causing yield loss upto 30-100% in Solanaceous vegetables. Several methods have been tried to control bacterial wilt but they are ineffective and not economically feasible. This study was aimed to develop resistant lines against bacterial wilt. Three week old chilli seedlings of 50 accessions each, were root dipped with bacterial suspension and screened against Ralstonia solanacearum by transplanting seedlings into sick plot at Horticultural Research and Extension Centre (HREC), Devihosur, Haveri, Karnataka, during summer 2019-20. Out of which, none of the varieties/accessions found immune or highly susceptible to bacterial wilt incited by Ralstonia solanacearum. Only 4 varieties viz., Ujwala, Anugraha, Khandari and Utkal Ava showed 15% wilt incidence and were categorized as resistant. Utkal Rasmi, KDC-1, DCA-21, 20 indigenous collections and 2 exotic collections revealed 21-40% wilt incidence were regarded as moderately resistant. Byadgi Kaddi, Byadgi Dabbi and Pusa Jwala were grouped under susceptible lines (61-80%) and rest of the varieties which showed percent wilt incidence of 41-60% were found to be moderately susceptible. On the basis of present investigation, it is concluded that chilli accessions showing resistant to moderately resistance reaction to bacterial wilt can be further utilized for hybridization and crop improvement programme to develop resistance hybrids against bacterial wilt.','Bacterial wilt resistance, Ralstonia solanacearum, Chilli, Screening','On the basis of present investigation, it is concluded that chilli accessions showing resistant to moderately resistance reaction to bacterial wilt can be further utilized for hybridization and crop improvement programme to develop resistance hybrids against bacterial wilt.','-','Thilak J.C., Ajjappalavara P.S., Ganiger V.M., Sandhyarani N., Ramangouda S.H., Abdul Kareem M. and Vinutha D.B. (2023). Screening of Chilli germplasms for Resistance Against Soil Borne Pathogen Ralstonia solanacearum causing Bacterial Wilt. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 15(9): 913-918.'),(7556,'163','Rhino-maxillary Mucormycosis with Associated Actinomycosis: Fungal and Bacterial Collusion','Godge Pournima, Shroff Jashika, S.M. Meghana, Kulkarni Sandip and Shah Rohit ','Rhino-maxillary-Mucormycosis-with-Associated-Actinomycosis-Fungal-and-Bacterial-Collusion-Shah-Rohit-94.pdf','',1,'Mucormycosis, an acute angioinvasive fatal disease caused by filamentous fungi of order mucorales has emerged as an important fungal infection in immunocompromised patients with a mortality of 10% to as high as 100%. One of the aggressive variants of the disease is rhinocerebralmucormycosis, which is further subdivided into rhinomaxillary and rhino-oculocerebral forms of the infection. Concomitant fungal and bacterial infection of the maxillofacial region along with mucormycosis although uncommon, due to rich vascularity of this specific region, may present with widespread jaw bone necrosis and poses a diagnostic challenge for an oral physician. Here, we present an unusual case of rhinomaxillary form of mucormycosis developed post extraction, associated with granulomatous suppurative actinomycosis, in a 50 year-old diabetic male.','Mucorales, ray fungus, concomitant infection, immunocompromised patient, Maxilla, Diabetes Mellitus','Simultaneous coexistence of two fatal diseases of cervicofacial region, mucormycosis and actinomycosis may be diagnostically challenging for dental surgeons due to unfamiliarity with its clinical presentation. Early and prompt recognition of such conditions which tend to spread rapidly is very crucial as they may mimic dental-related infections simulating a malignant disease. And frequently, they may be associated with underlying systemic conditions that may be quiescent. Finally, a multi-disciplinary team approach along with early diagnosis, management of underlying medical condition accompanied by aggressive surgical intervention are the key to improving the outcome of such patients.','-','Godge Pournima, Shroff Jashika, S.M. Meghana, Kulkarni Sandip and Shah Rohit (2023). Rhino-maxillary Mucormycosis with Associated Actinomycosis: Fungal and Bacterial Collusion. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 15(5a): 603-607.'),(7557,'163','Hematological Profile of Crossbred Cattle in Response to Seasonal Variations at Medziphema, Nagaland','Rameshwar, N. Savino, V.K. Vidyarthi, Thejanuo Rio, Tsarila Z.T. Sangtam, Manish Meshram, Gavrav Dubey and Drusilla Jishing Rengma','Hematological-Profile-of-Crossbred-Cattle-in-Response-to-Seasonal-Variations-at-Medziphema,-Nagaland-Rameshwar-95.pdf','',1,'This study aims to investigate, for the first time in medziphema, the effects of seasonal temperatures and THI changes on the hematological profile in crossbred cattle as an indicator for their physiological status assessment. The study was conducted seasons wise THI calculated for calendar years and divided in three seasons such as spring (January to April), summer (May to August), and winter (September to December) 2022 and was performed on ten crossbred cattle. Blood samples were collected two times during this study period. The data regarding temperature changes in hematological parameters were significantly (P≤0.05) variations concerning red blood cell count (RBC), white blood cell count (WBC), hemoglobin concentration (Hb) and mean corpuscular volume (MCV). As well as variations were significant for packed cell volume (PCV), mean corpuscular hemoglobin content (MCH) and mean corpuscular hemoglobin concentration (MCHC). The concentration was significantly (P≤0.05) RBC, hemoglobin, PCV, MCV and MCH levels were higher in winter compared to the other seasons (P≤0.05), respectively. The lowest percentage was significantly (P≤0.05) WBC and MCHC was generally observed in winter as compared to other seasons, respectively. The hematological profile of dairy crossbred cattle has been altered in response to different seasons which ultimately affected on production system. This study might be useful for providing base line information on the hematological profile of dairy cattle for the assessment of physiological status. ','Cattle, Hematological, THI, Seasonal Variations, MCHC, MCV','On the basis of this study, it can be concluded indicated that highest RBC, Hb during winter and spring season due to comfort and cool climatic condition. WBC lowers during summer season due to higher stressful temperatures and stress period. This variation in hematological parameters related to changes in ambient temperature, relative humidity and THI, although within the hematological parameters for crossbred cattle. Therefore, we can claim that the seasonal changes can impact the metabolic profile. ','-','Rameshwar, N. Savino, V.K. Vidyarthi, Thejanuo Rio, Tsarila Z.T. Sangtam, Manish Meshram, Gavrav Dubey and Drusilla Jishing Rengma (2023). Hematological Profile of Crossbred Cattle in Response to Seasonal Variations at Medziphema, Nagaland. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 15(5a): 608-612.'),(7558,'165','Economic Analysis of Different Modules for the Management of Shoot and Fruit Borer (Earias vittella F.) of Okra','Heenashree Mansion, Umesh Chandra and Amit Kumar, Sreelakshmi B. R. and Garima Tak ','Economic-Analysis-of-Different-Modules-for-the-Management-of-Shoot-and-Fruit-Borer-(Earias-vittella-F.)-of-Okra-Heenashree-Mansion-156.pdf','',1,'The present investigation was studied in Zaid season 2022 at student’s instructional farm, A.N.D. University of agriculture and Technology, Kumarganj, Ayodhya (U.P.). Intercropping of coriander with okra (1:1) was found maximum yield (41.80 q/ha), while the least (23.28 q/ha) was obtained in maize intercropped with okra (1:1). The maximum cost: benefit of 1:11.56 was obtained from Spinosad 45 SC 75 g a.i/ha treated plots. As results current study carried out the economic analysis of pest management modules.','Earias vittella, okra, pest management, fruit yield, economic','Spinosad 45 SC 75 g a.i/ha gave maximum fruit yield (77.03 q/ha) followed by Abamectin 1.8 EC 25 g a.i/ha with (58.36 q/ha). The maximum cost: benefit was obtained in plot treated Spinosad 45 SC 75 g a.i/ha with (1:11.56) followed by Abamectin 1.8 EC 25 g a.i/ha (1:6.90). By the experiment conducted, in order to derive effective control against okra shoot and fruit borer, we can recommend cultural practices like intercropping with marigold at 1:1 ratio and among chemical practices, spraying with Spinosad 45 SC@75g a.i/ha can be carried out as it is cost effective and also can effectively control the pest, with good yield ultimately.','-','Heenashree Mansion, Umesh Chandra and Amit Kumar, Sreelakshmi B. R. and Garima Tak (2023). Economic Analysis of Different Modules for the Management of Shoot and Fruit Borer (Earias vittella F.) of Okra. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 15(9): 919-921.'),(7559,'165','The Crucial Role of elevated Carbon dioxide and Temperature on Soil Biodiversity in Agricultural Ecosystem: A Comprehensive Review','M. Homeshwari Devi, Immanuel C. Haokip, Asha Sahu, Sudeshna Bhattacharjya, K. Bharati and S.R. Mohanty ','The-Crucial-Role-of-elevated-Carbon-dioxide-and-Temperature-on-Soil-Biodiversity-in-Agricultural-Ecosystem-A-Comprehensive-Review-M-Homeshwari-Devi-157.pdf','',1,'Soil biodiversity encompasses a rich array of organisms present in the soil and have profound implications for ecosystem functioning and long-term sustainability of agro ecosystem. Rise in atmospheric carbon dioxide (CO2) concentration and temperature are two major drivers of global climate change scenario. This review article delves into the impact of elevated carbon dioxide (E[CO2]) and temperature on crop growth and yield and its effect on soil biodiversity. It elucidates the current understanding of how CO2 and temperature changes affect crop yield and soil biodiversity. Increased CO2 concentrations can stimulate or dampen plant growth with marked influence on crop yield and global food security. The E[CO2] affects the functional and structural composition of soil microbial community through its effects on plant C inputs to soil, soil moisture, or nutrient availabilities. Temperature influences the physiology, activity, and survival of both crops and soil organisms. Warmer temperatures disrupt the crop’s optimal temperature with adverse effect of crop physiological processes. Shifts in temperature regimes may also affect the distribution and abundance of different soil organisms, potentially favoring some species while suppressing others. Enhanced temperature also accelerates decomposition rates, nutrient cycling processes, altering organic matter dynamics and nutrient availability in the soil. The combined effects of elevated CO2 and temperature on soil biodiversity are complex and context-dependent. The interplay between elevated CO2, temperature, and soil biodiversity in agricultural ecosystems are complex and multifaceted which requires further investigation. To mitigate these adverse effects, strategies such as conservation agriculture practices, sustainable farming methods, and precision nutrient management are required to promote soil biodiversity enhance resilience, and productivity under changing environments. Continued effort is essential to unravel the mechanisms involved in these interactions. ','Climate change; GHG emissions; Global warming; soil microbial communities; plant growth and yield','The influence of CO2 and temperature on soil biodiversity in agricultural ecosystems is a critical concern given the ongoing challenges of climate change scenario. It is evident that these environmental changes disrupt the delicate balance of the soil ecosystem, leading to alterations in species composition, functional diversity, and nutrient cycling processes. This investigation, highlights that elevated CO2 levels tend to favor specific microbial groups, leading to shifts in community dynamics and potentially affecting nutrient availability in the soil. Additionally, increasing temperatures can exert both direct and indirect impacts on soil organisms, influencing their activity, reproduction and survival rates. The combined effects of these factors can exacerbate the vulnerability of agricultural ecosystems to environmental stresses and, consequently, impact crop productivity and overall agricultural sustainability. It is imperative to continue exploring the intricate relationships between CO2, temperature, and soil biodiversity in agricultural ecosystems. ','-','M. Homeshwari Devi, Immanuel C. Haokip, Asha Sahu, Sudeshna Bhattacharjya, K. Bharati and S.R. Mohanty (2023). The Crucial Role of elevated Carbon dioxide and Temperature on Soil Biodiversity in Agricultural Ecosystem: A Comprehensive Review. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 15(9): 922-931.'),(7560,'165','Characterization and Classification of Oil Palm Growing Soils of Khammam and Bhadradri Kothagudem Districts of Telangana','M. Pragnya, M. Ram Prasad, G. Jayasree and I.V. Srinivasa Reddy','Characterization-and-Classification-of-Oil-Palm-Growing-Soils-of-Khammam-and-Bhadradri-Kothagudem-Districts-of-Telangana-M-Ram-Prasad-158.pdf','',1,'Five distinctive soil profiles (pedons) from the oil palm (Elaeis guineensis Jacq.) cultivation areas in Khammam and Bhadradri Kothagudem districts of Telangana were analyzed and categorized. The findings revealed that these soils ranged from sandy loam to sandy clay in texture and had moderate permeability. They were slightly acidic to neutral in pH, non-saline, with medium to high organic carbon content, a mixture of mineral types, moderately deep to very deep, and moderately to well-drained. Bulk density increased with depth, ranging from 1.39 to 1.63 Mg m-3. Cation exchange capacity and soil pH did not exhibit a consistent pattern with depth. The levels of nitrogen (N), phosphorus (P), and potassium (K) were rated as low to medium for N, medium to high for P, and medium for K, respectively. The available N, P, and K decreased with increasing soil depth. Based on these soil characteristics, the soils can be classified at the order level as Alfisols and Inceptisols, and at the subgroup level as Kanhaplic Rhodustalfs, Typic Haplustalfs, Typic Haplustepts, and Vertic Haplustepts.','Characterization, Classification, Oil palm-growing soils','In summary, the study findings indicate that the soils used for oil palm cultivation in the Khammam and Bhadradri Kothagudem districts of Telangana exhibit a texture ranging from sandy loam to sandy clay, with moderate permeability. These soils tend to be slightly acidic to neutral in pH, non-saline, and have a medium to high organic carbon content. They also display a mixed mineral composition, are moderately deep to very deep, and show moderate to well-drained properties. The bulk density of these soils increases with depth, ranging from 1.39 to 1.63 Mg m-3. In terms of nutrient content, nitrogen (N) levels are generally low to medium, phosphorus (P) levels are medium to high, and potassium (K) levels are medium. Additionally, the availability of N, P, and K decreases with increasing soil depth. Based on these soil characteristics, the soils have been classified up to the subgroup level.','-','M. Pragnya, M. Ram Prasad, G. Jayasree and I.V. Srinivasa Reddy (2023). Characterization and Classification of Oil Palm Growing Soils of Khammam and Bhadradri Kothagudem Districts of Telangana. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 15(9): 932-937.'),(7561,'165','Rapid Multiplication of Geographical Indication (GI) tagged Mysore Mallige (Jasminum azoricum L.) using Single Node','A. Ranjitha Ayodhya, K.S. Nirmala and Venkatesha Murthy P. ','Rapid-Multiplication-of-Geographical-Indication-(GI)-tagged-Mysore-Mallige-(Jasminum-azoricum-L.)-using-Single-Node-KS-Nirmala-159.pdf','',1,'Mysore Mallige (Jasminum azoricum L. syn. J. trifoliatum Moench), a popular jasmine of Mysuru district of Karnataka State, India with Geographical Indication (GI) possess unique fragrance. Conservation of this GI tagged cultivar needs immediate attention as it is endangered and area under this crop is decreasing. The present study aimed at rapid multiplication of this threatened species under in vivo condition. Single node cuttings were treated with IBA and IAA for root regeneration and further development of whole plants. While IBA showed best results, single nodes did not respond for IAA treatments. Early sprouting of axillary bud, early formation of leaves, more number of leaves per shoots, highest mean shoot length, maximum number of roots and maximum root length, and better survival percent at 60 days was observed at IBA 1500 mg L-1. However, there was formation of only one shoot in all concentrations of IBA. Untreated single node cuttings showed no response.','IBA, IAA, single node cuttings, Jasminum azoricum','Jasmines are normally propagated through semi hard wood cuttings. In the present study. The present study indicates that single node cuttings can be employed for rapid multiplication of Mysore mallige (Jasminum azoricum L.). Single node cuttings responded only to IBA among the two auxins tried. Also, higher concentration of IBA was found most effective in inducing rooting in single nodes and good shoot development along with good survival of the rooted cuttings. The technique can be employed for easy and faster multiplication of Mysore mallige plants. ','-','A. Ranjitha Ayodhya, K.S. Nirmala and Venkatesha Murthy P. (2023). Rapid Multiplication of Geographical Indication (GI) tagged Mysore Mallige (Jasminum azoricum L.) using Single Node. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 15(9): 938-941.'),(7562,'165','Estimation of Genetic variability and Association Studies for Quantitative Traits in Rice (Oryza sativa L.)','Sumalini K., Shiva Prasad G., Lingaiah N. and Sridhar V. ','Estimation-of-Genetic-variability-and-Association-Studies-for-Quantitative-Traits-in-Rice-(Oryza-sativa-L.)-Sumalini-K-160.pdf','',1,'An experiment was conducted during kharif (July–November), 2021 at ARS, Kampasagar, Telanagana, India to estimate variability, genetic parameters and association among yield and its contributing traits in 270 rice genotypes. ANOVA by REML method showed significant variation among the genotypes for all the traits i.e., days to 50% flowering, plant height (cm), number of effective tillers plant-1, number of tillers plant-1, panicle length (cm) and grain yield (kgha-1). The phenotypic variance was higher than the corresponding genotypic variance for all the traits indicating profound influence of environment in the expression of the traits. The magnitude of difference between phenotypic coefficient of variance (PCV) and genotypic coefficient of variance (GCV) was more for all the traits revealing the environmental effect. GCV was moderate for grain yield and low for the remaining traits and PCV was moderate for plant height, low for days to 50% flowering and high for the remaining traits. Low PCV and GCV values indicate the need for creation of variability through hybridization followed by selection. Moderate heritability coupled with high genetic advance as percent of mean was found for grain yield indicating the preponderance of additive type of gene action in governing the trait and selection may be done in early generations. Heritability was moderate for days to 50% flowering and low for the remaining traits coupled with low genetic advance as percent of mean revealing non-additive gene action in governing these traits hence, direct selection is not effective. Improvement is possible by creating variation and selection. Days to 50% flowering, plant height, number of effective tillers plant-1 and number of tillers plant-1 had positive and highly significant correlation with grain yield indicating selection of these traits can increase grain yield.','Rice, GCV, PCV, heritability, genetic advance, correlation','Phenotypic variance was higher than genotypic variance for all the studied traits indicating the profound influence of environment in the phenotypic expression of the traits. Except grain yield, all the traits had low PCV and GCV values indicating narrow genetic base for these traits and variability could be created either through hybridization or induced mutagenesis followed by pedigree selection. Moderate heritability coupled with high genetic advance as percent of mean was found for grain yield indicating the preponderance of additive type of gene action in governing the trait and early generation selection is effective and for the remaining traits recurrent selection could be followed to improve the traits.','-','Sumalini K., Shiva Prasad G., Lingaiah N. and Sridhar V. (2023). Estimation of Genetic variability and Association Studies for Quantitative Traits in Rice (Oryza sativa L.). Biological Forum – An International Journal, 15(9): 942-946.'),(7563,'165','Evaluation of Consortium of Bioagents against Fusarium oxysporum f. sp. pisi','Swarna Kurmi, Sanjeev Kumar, Sanjay Kumar Shingh, Rahul Patidar and Gopilal Anjana ','Evaluation-of-Consortium-of-Bioagents-against-Fusarium-oxysporum-f.-sp.-pisi-Rahul-Patidar-161.pdf','',1,'In India, particularly in Madhya Pradesh (Jabalpur), the pea is a significant pulse crop. Pea crop suffers from many diseases caused by fungi from which wilt is reported as one of the emerging disease in last few year. Fungal and bacterial bioagents have been identified as one of the greatest alternatives that doesn\'t harm the environment for minimizing the use of chemicals. The majority of biocontrol agents used to combat a variety of root, shoot, and postharvest infections are Trichoderma spp. The idea of creating microbial consortia for bio-control is based on the observation that in their natural habitats, bioagents exist in communities that provide some advantages to plants. In this study, the ability of consortium of Trichoderma in dual culture as well as its volatile and non-volatile compounds were evaluated. In all tested consortium in dual culture T. virens + T. harzianum recorded maximum percent growth inhibition (JC-1, 69.83%). In volatile compounds Percent growth inhibition 86.80 % was recorded highest in T. viride + T. harzianum (JC-2, 76.51%) and Percent growth inhibition in non-volatile compound will increase as concentration of bioagents increases in highest concentration 100% growth inhibition was recorded in five consortiums of bioagents that was T. virens + T. harzianum (JC-1), T. viride + T. harzianum (JC-2), T. viride + T. virens (JC-3), T. asperellum + T. longibrachiatum (JC-6) and T. longibrachiatum+ T. Virens (JC-7). The in-vitro test was performed October-November 2021.','Consortium, Fusarium, Trichoderma, wilt, pathogen, bioagent','Trichoderma consortium in dual culture give best result in T. virens + T. harzianum (JC-1, 69.83%) in volatile compound T. viride + T. harzianum (JC-2, 76.51%) and in non-volatile compound all were found satisfactory and in highest concentration 100% growth inhibition was recorded in five consortiums of bioagents that was T. virens + T. harzianum (JC-1), T. viride + T. harzianum (JC-2), T. viride + T. virens (JC-3), T. asperellum + T. longibrachiatum (JC-6) and T. longibrachiatum + T. Virens (JC-7).','-','Swarna Kurmi, Sanjeev Kumar, Sanjay Kumar Shingh, Rahul Patidar and Gopilal Anjana (2023). Evaluation of Consortium of Bioagents against Fusarium oxysporum f.sp. pisi. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 15(9): 947-952.'),(7564,'165','Eco-friendly Management of Stem Canker Disease of Pigeonpea caused by Phoma cajani','Kanase K. M., S. S. Mane, S. T. Ingle and S. B. Bramhankar','Eco-friendly-Management-of-Stem-Canker-Disease-of-Pigeonpea-caused-by-Phoma-cajani-Kanase-KM-162.pdf','',1,'An investigation was carried out to determine the efficacy bioagents and essential oils against Phoma cajani causing stem canker disease of pigeonpea. The bioagents viz. Trichoderma spp, Bacillus spp and Pseudomonas spp were found effective against test pathogen. Among them, T. asperellum was found most effective and recorded highest percent mycelial inhibition (72.91 %). Followed by T. virens, (68.85 %) and T. hamatum (64.59 %). The least mycelial growt hinhibition which recorded in T. harzianum(63.36 %). The two bacterial antagonists tested, Bacillus subtilis was found most effective and recorded highest percent mycelial inhibition (51.39 %) Followed by Pseudomonas fluorescens (41.64 %) against maximum per cent mycelial growth inhibition was (100%) over untreated control. The radial per cent mycelial growth inhibition recorded with the essential oils tested was ranged from 45.74 to 100.00 %. However, it was significantly highest and per cent mycelial growth inhibition with essential oils citronella oil and lemon grass oil. These were followed by lavender oil (91.36 %), eucalyptus oil (63.55 %), neem oil (52.10 %), olive oil (47.19 %), and peppermint oil (45.74 %) with the maximum percent mycelial growth inhibition being (100 %) over the untreated control. So, organic management might be a better option to control against Phoma cajani causing stem canker disease of pigeonpea also having environment friendly.','Stem Canker Disease, Phoma cajani, Ecofriendly management, Essential oils, Pigeonpea, Bioagent','In present investigation the bioagents viz., T. asperellum was found most effective and recorded highest percent mycelial inhibition (72.91 %). However, in essential oils, cent per cent mycelial growth inhibition with citronella oil and lemon grass oil. These were followed by lavender oil (91.36 %), eucalyptus oil (63.55 %), neem oil (52.10 %), olive oil (47.19 %), and peppermint oil (45.74 %) with the maximum percent mycelial growth inhibition being (100 %) over the untreated control. So, organic management might be a better option to control against Phoma cajani causing stem canker disease of pigeonpea.','-','Kanase K. M., S. S. Mane, S. T. Ingle and S. B. Bramhankar (2023). Eco-friendly Management of Stem Canker Disease of Pigeonpea caused by Phoma cajani. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 15(9): 953-957.'),(7565,'165','Genetic variability and Selection Parameters for yield and its contributing characters in Quality Protein Maize (Zea mays L.)','Harshit Tripathi, R.K. Yadav, Lokendra Singh, H.C. Singh, Shweta, Pawan Kumar Saini, Swapnil Dwivedi and Pratyksh Pandey','Genetic-variability-and-Selection-Parameters-for-yield-and-its-contributing-characters-in-Quality-Protein-Maize-(Zea-mays-L.)-Harshit-Tripathi-163.pdf','',1,'Ten QPM inbred lines and their all-possible cross combinations excluding their reciprocals (10 parents + 45 F1s) were evaluated in a randomized block design with three replications during Rabi 2020-2021 at Student’s Instructional Farm, C. S. Azad University of Agriculture and Technology- 208002, Kanpur, U.P. to get the extent of variability and related parameters to select effectively for grain yield and quality characters. It is a big challenge for researchers to get high grain yield with high protein. The data was recorded on sixteen characters viz., days to tasseling, days to silking, Days to maturity, Plant height (cm), Cob length (cm), Cob diameter (cm), Number of grain rows per cob, Number of grains per row, Cob yield per plant(g), Grain yield per plant (g), Shelling %, 100 kernel weight (g), Protein content (%), Lysine content (%), Tryptophan content (%), Seed vigour index. The result showed higher estimated values for Phenotypic Coefficient of Variability (PCV) of all the sixteen characters as compared to their corresponding Genotypic Coefficient of Variability (GCV). Highest values of PCV and GCV were noted for Lysine content (%) followed by Cob diameter (cm), Cob length (cm), Number of grain rows per cob and Protein content (%) based on F1 while it was lowest for Days to maturity and Plant Height (cm). Difference between the PCV and GCV for Number of grain rows per cob and Plant Height (cm) were found higher indicating these two characters more influenced by environment, while low value of difference for remaining characters showed stability of the characters. High heritability in broad sense was observed for all the characters. High genetic advance % over mean was found for Lysine content (%) and Cob diameter (cm) while moderate for Cob length (cm), Number of grain rows per cob, Cob yield per plant(g), Shelling %, Protein content (%) and Seed vigour index and low for Days to tasseling, Days to silking, Days to maturity, Plant height (cm), Number of grains per row, Grain yield per plant (g), 100 kernel weight (g) and Tryptophan content (%). An advancement of 24.19% in Lysine content (%) followed by 20.69% in Cob diameter (cm) per cycle of selection at K=2.06. Both additive genes and non-additive genes were found effective for all the characters whereas Cob diameter (cm) and Lysine content (%) were under the control of non-additive genes. Simple selection based on progeny performance may be helpful for improving grain yield per plant.','Quality Protein Maize, Zea mays, genetic variability, heritability, genetic advance, selection parameters','The present study generally indicated that there was plenty of genetic variability among the genotypes. Thus, there is vast opportunity in the improvement of protein, lysine and tryptophan content in these quality protein maize genotypes. Therefore, the results and information generated from current study need to be used by interested plant breeders. Since the experiment was carried out at one location and in one season, it is advisable to continue over several years and locations with this study for the improvement of normal maize to QPM.\r\nStudies revealed that the lysine content (%) followed by Cob diameter (cm) with high heritability and high genetic advance followed by Cob length (cm), Number of grain rows per cob, Cob yield per plant(g), Shelling %, Protein content (%) and Seed vigour index and low for Days to tasseling, Days to silking, Days to maturity, Plant height (cm), Number of grains per row, Grain yield per plant (g), 100 kernel weight (g) and Tryptophan content (%) were the major yield attributing characters coupled with moderate genetic advance, so emphasis should be given for these characters at the time of simple selection.\r\n','-','Harshit Tripathi, R.K. Yadav, Lokendra Singh, H.C. Singh, Shweta, Pawan Kumar Saini, Swapnil Dwivedi and Pratyksh Pandey (2023). Genetic variability and Selection Parameters for yield and its contributing characters in Quality Protein Maize (Zea mays L.). Biological Forum – An International Journal, 15(9): 958-962.'),(7566,'165','Assessing Impacts of Projected Climate Change on the Streamflow of Kesinga Catchment, India using the SWAT Model','P. Chinna Vani, B.C. Sahoo, J.C. Paul, A.P. Sahu and A.K.B. Mohapatra','Assessing-Impacts-of-Projected-Climate-Change-on-the-Streamflow-of-Kesinga-Catchment,-India-using-the-SWAT-Model-P-Chinna-Vani-164.pdf','',1,'Climate change has significantly affected the hydrological cycle and future climate projections. Understanding the impacts of climate change on streamflow necessitates the examination of various climate scenarios using hydrological models. The present study used the Soil and Water Assessment Tool (SWAT) model to predict and project streamflow in a catchment. High-resolution future climate data from CSIRO-QCCCE-CSIRO and CCCma-CanESM2 models obtained from CORDEX are generated for impact assessment. The hydrological response of the catchment is assessed by dividing the future time scales into mid-century (2021-2050) and end-century (2071-2099) with two scenarios: Representative Concentration Pathway (RCP) 4.5 and 8.5. The climate projection results indicate an increase in both maximum (up to 3.7℃) and minimum (up to 2.9℃) temperatures, along with an expected increase in precipitation of up to 14.8%. Additionally, streamflow is projected to increase by up to 21% to 172% in the mid-century and decrease by 28% or increase by 160% in the end-century under different streamflow scenarios. The results of this study highlight the impact of climate change on streamflow in the Kesinga catchment and provide a scientific basis for adaptive management.','Precipitation, Temperature, CORDEX, Future scenarios, SWAT model, streamflow','This study adopted a methodology to enhance SWAT streamflow projections for future climate change scenarios at regional scales. The estimation of watershed-scale streamflow using the SWAT model involved the integration of climate change factors at the regional scale, including the use of Digital Elevation Models (DEMs). A DEM was generated by removing topographic elements from high-resolution data and replacing them at the Hydrologic Response Unit (HRU) level. The SWAT model was then employed to evaluate the effects of climate change using future scenarios from RCM models under two RCP scenarios. The average streamflow values over 30-year periods exhibited significant changes under the future projected RCP climate change scenarios derived from two CORDEX-RCM models, as predicted by the SWAT model. Consequently, the streamflow values for the end of the century were notably different from the observed values. Monthly average streamflow values typically increased during June and August, while they decreased in February and March. Changes in precipitation patterns, surface temperature, and streamflow primarily drove the hydrological changes within the catchment. Furthermore, the climate models developed in this study hold significant value for the formulation of effective watershed management and mitigation strategies for the middle and end of the century, aimed at minimizing the impacts of climate change.','-','P. Chinna Vani, B.C. Sahoo, J.C. Paul, A.P. Sahu and A.K.B. Mohapatra (2023). Assessing Impacts of Projected Climate Change on the Streamflow of Kesinga Catchment, India using the SWAT Model. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 15(9): 963-968.'),(7567,'165','Eco-friendly Management with respect to Yellow Stem Borer (Scirpophaga incertulas Walker) on Rice','Ganga Bhavani Batta, K.L. Paikra, G.P. Paikra, P.K. Bhagat, Sachin Kumar Jaiswal and Priti Singh','Eco-friendly-Management-with-respect-to-Yellow-Stem-Borer-(Scirpophaga-incertulas-Walker)-on-Rice-Batta-GB-165.pdf','',1,'Farmers highly rely on synthetic insecticides against destructive pests, the excessive use of which in the field results in severe adverse effects on the agroecosystem, human health and wildlife. So, research was conducted at Agriculture Research Farm of Raj Mohini Devi College of Agriculture and Research Station Ambikapur, (C.G.) during Kharif 2022 to manage yellow stem borer of rice in an environmentally responsible manner. The research followed RBD with 4 replications and 5 treatments using variety MTU-1010. The treatments are T1 Botanical-insecticides (Neemazal 1% EC + Eucalyptus oil + Cartap hydrochloride 50% SC), T2 Botanical – insecticides (Neemazal 1% EC + Neem oil + Triflumezopyrim 10% SC), T3 All botanicals (Neemazal 1% EC + Eucalyptus oil + Neem oil), T4 All insecticides (Chlorantraniliprole 0.4G + Cartap hydrochloride 50% SC + Triflumezopyrim10% SC) and untreated control. The results shown that T4 All insecticides (Chlorantraniliprole 0.4G + Cartap hydrochloride 50%SC + Triflumezopyrim10% SC) recorded with lowest per cent of dead heart and white ear head (3.7% DH and 2.0% WE, respectively) followed by T3 All botanicals (Neemazal 1% EC + Eucalyptus oil + Neem oil) with 3.75% DH and 2.4% WE while untreated plot recorded with highest 6.9% DH and 6.1%, WE, respectively. Similarly, the highest yield and net returns recorded from treatment T4 All insecticides (Chlorantraniliprole 0.4G + Cartap hydrochloride 50% SC + Triflumezopyrim 10% SC) i.e., 42 q ha-1 and Rs. 54796 ha-1, respectively followed by T3 All botanicals (Neemazal 1% EC + Eucalyptus oil + Neem oil) with 39.5 q ha-1 and Rs.54714 ha-1, respectively while the lowest yield and net returns recorded from untreated plot with 33 q ha-1 and Rs. 39795 ha-1, respectively. Whereas due to low cost of treatment, T3 All botanicals (Neemazal 1% EC + Eucalyptus oil + Neem oil) recorded with highest Cost to Benefit ratio i.e., (1:1.74) followed by T4 All insecticides (Chlorantraniliprole 0.4G + Cartap hydrochloride 50%SC + Triflumezopyrim10% SC) with (C: B -1:1.49).','Eco-friendly management, rice yellow stem borer, yield','The efficacy of some eco-friendly insecticides was also evaluated in order to provide better protection to rice against yellow stem borer infestation and also to protect the environment from excessive usage of insecticides. The results revealed that treatment T4 All insecticides (Chlorantraniliprole 0.4G + Cartap hydrochloride 50% SC + Triflumezopyrim 10% SC) was found to be most effective treatment with lower per cent of dead heart and white earhead (3.7 and 2.0 %, respectively) followed by treatment T3 All botanicals (Neemazal 1% EC + Eucalyptus oil + Neem oil) with (3.75% DH and 2.4% WE, respectively) and T1 Botanical-insecticides (Neemazal 1% EC + Eucalyptus oil + Cartap hydrochloride 50% SC) with (3.9% DH and 2.5%WE, respectively). Whereas untreated plot recorded with maximum number of dead heart (6.9%) and white earhead infestation (6.1%).\r\nTaking into account economics of treatments against yellow stem borer in rice, clearly revealed that all the treatments recorded good yield and net return over untreated control. The maximum yield and net return were obtained from T4 All insecticides (i.e., Chlorantraniliprole 0.4G + Cartap hydrochloride 50% SC + Triflumezopyrim 10% SC) with (42 q ha-1and Rs.54796 ha-1) followed by T3 All botanicals (i.e., Neemazal 1% EC + Eucalyptus oil + Neem oil) (39.5 q ha-1and Rs. 54714 ha-1) respectively.\r\nConsidering cost of pesticides, T3 All botanicals (i.e., Neemazal 1% EC + Eucalyptus oil + Neem oil) proved best with maximum C:B ratio (1:1.74) followed by T4 All insecticides (i.e., Chlorantraniliprole 0.4G + Cartap hydrochloride 50% SC + Triflumezopyrim 10% SC) (1:1.49) and T1 Botanical-insecticides (i.e., Neemazal 1% EC + Eucalyptus oil + Cartap hydrochloride 50% SC) (1:1.45) which were significantly superior over all the treatments. Further analysis of data also revealed that untreated control was inferior regarding C:B ratio (1: 1.23). The current findings were in support with Kulagod et al. (2011) recorded that there was significant dead heart difference among the treatments at 5 days after spray. Cartap hydrochloride 50%SP @1g/l recorded significantly lowest per cent dead heart. Justin and Preetha (2014) revealed that chlorantraniliprole 0.4 GR was proved to be the best among all the tested insecticides with reduced stem borer infestation and recorded higher grain yield. While Neem oil exerted minimum reduction percentage of stem borer.\r\nBased on the present studies, it is proven that treatment T3 All botanicals (i.e., Neemazal 1% EC + Eucalyptus oil + Neem oil) is best with maximum C:B ratio, net returns and less environmental impact, so it can be recommended for farmers based on results of further investigation.\r\n','-','Ganga Bhavani Batta, K.L. Paikra, G.P. Paikra, P.K. Bhagat, Sachin Kumar Jaiswal and Priti Singh (2023). Eco-friendly Management with respect to Yellow Stem Borer (Scirpophaga incertulas Walker) on Rice. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 15(9): 969-974.'),(7568,'165','Trait Diversity in Direct-Seeded Rice Genotypes: Implications for Yield Enhancement','Rashad Khan, A. Anandan, T.K. Mishra, B.D. Pradhan, G.R. Rout and K.C. Muduli ','Trait-Diversity-in-Direct-Seeded-Rice-Genotypes-Implications-for-Yield-Enhancement-Rashad-Khan-244.pdf','',4,'Rice, a globally indispensable food source, is undergoing a transformation towards enhanced sustainability and water efficiency, chiefly through innovative techniques like direct-seeded rice cultivation. This study, conducted at the ICAR-National Rice Research Institute in Cuttack, systematically assessed 202 diverse rice genotypes sourced from the Bengal and Assam Aus panels, focusing on their variability in terms of yield and yield-related traits under dry, direct-seeded rice conditions. The results brought to light a substantial range in yield per plant, with the highest recorded at 31.4g and the lowest at 0.45g, averaging at 9.40g. Notably, among the 202 rice genotypes, no single genotype consistently outperformed the others across all traits assessed. This observation underscores the multifaceted nature of rice characteristics. Among the evaluated traits such as days to 50% flowering, plant height, number of tillers per plant, SPAD, flag leaf length, and panicle length, significant phenotypic and genotypic variance was noted. Furthermore, both yield per plant and productive tillers per plant displayed substantial phenotypic and genotypic variance. The study also revealed high heritability estimates for all traits except panicle length. Notably, traits like plant height, days to 50% flowering, productive tillers per plant, flag leaf length, and SPAD exhibited not only high heritability but also substantial genetic advances. This suggests that these traits are primarily influenced by additive genetic factors. In summary, this research underscores the pivotal role of innovative techniques like direct-seeded rice cultivation in advancing the sustainability and water efficiency of rice cultivation. Additionally, it emphasizes the significant trait diversity within rice genotypes, particularly in crucial characteristics such as plant height and flowering time, offering invaluable insights for future breeding and improvement endeavors.','Heritability, GCV, PCV, Trait diversity, Variability, Yield enhancement','In summary, our study reveals significant trait diversity among rice genotypes under dry, direct-seeded conditions. Traits such as plant height, Days to 50% flowering, Productive tillers per plant, Flag leaf width, Yield per plant, and SPAD exhibit high heritability and substantial genetic advances, primarily controlled by additive genes. These traits are promising targets for improvement through phenotypic selection. However, traits like days to 50% flowering and SPAD, with moderate heritability and limited genetic advance, may involve both additive and non-additive gene actions. This research provides valuable insights for breeding programs aimed at enhancing rice yield and sustainability in agriculture.','-','Rashad Khan, A. Anandan, T.K. Mishra, B.D. Pradhan, G.R. Rout and K.C. Muduli (2022). Trait Diversity in Direct-Seeded Rice Genotypes: Implications for Yield Enhancement. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 14(4): 1370-1375.'),(7569,'146','Trait Diversity in Direct-Seeded Rice Genotypes: Implications for Yield Enhancement','Rashad Khan, A. Anandan, T.K. Mishra, B.D. Pradhan, G.R. Rout and K.C. Muduli','Trait-Diversity-in-Direct-Seeded-Rice-Genotypes-Implications-for-Yield-Enhancement-Rashad-Khan-244.pdf','',1,'Rice, a globally indispensable food source, is undergoing a transformation towards enhanced sustainability and water efficiency, chiefly through innovative techniques like direct-seeded rice cultivation. This study, conducted at the ICAR-National Rice Research Institute in Cuttack, systematically assessed 202 diverse rice genotypes sourced from the Bengal and Assam Aus panels, focusing on their variability in terms of yield and yield-related traits under dry, direct-seeded rice conditions. The results brought to light a substantial range in yield per plant, with the highest recorded at 31.4g and the lowest at 0.45g, averaging at 9.40g. Notably, among the 202 rice genotypes, no single genotype consistently outperformed the others across all traits assessed. This observation underscores the multifaceted nature of rice characteristics. Among the evaluated traits such as days to 50% flowering, plant height, number of tillers per plant, SPAD, flag leaf length, and panicle length, significant phenotypic and genotypic variance was noted. Furthermore, both yield per plant and productive tillers per plant displayed substantial phenotypic and genotypic variance. The study also revealed high heritability estimates for all traits except panicle length. Notably, traits like plant height, days to 50% flowering, productive tillers per plant, flag leaf length, and SPAD exhibited not only high heritability but also substantial genetic advances. This suggests that these traits are primarily influenced by additive genetic factors. In summary, this research underscores the pivotal role of innovative techniques like direct-seeded rice cultivation in advancing the sustainability and water efficiency of rice cultivation. Additionally, it emphasizes the significant trait diversity within rice genotypes, particularly in crucial characteristics such as plant height and flowering time, offering invaluable insights for future breeding and improvement endeavors.','Heritability, GCV, PCV, Trait diversity, Variability, Yield enhancement','In summary, our study reveals significant trait diversity among rice genotypes under dry, direct-seeded conditions. Traits such as plant height, Days to 50% flowering, Productive tillers per plant, Flag leaf width, Yield per plant, and SPAD exhibit high heritability and substantial genetic advances, primarily controlled by additive genes. These traits are promising targets for improvement through phenotypic selection. However, traits like days to 50% flowering and SPAD, with moderate heritability and limited genetic advance, may involve both additive and non-additive gene actions. This research provides valuable insights for breeding programs aimed at enhancing rice yield and sustainability in agriculture.','-','Rashad Khan, A. Anandan, T.K. Mishra, B.D. Pradhan, G.R. Rout and K.C. Muduli (2022). Trait Diversity in Direct-Seeded Rice Genotypes: Implications for Yield Enhancement. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 14(4): 1370-1375.'),(7570,'165','Effect of Cocopeat with Agrowaste as casing Materials on Growth and Yield of White Button Mushroom [Agaricus bisporus (Lange) Imbach]','Prdeep Singh Shekhawat, Sobita Simon, Abhilasha A. Lal and Kharapude Pragati Chandrakant','Effect-of-Cocopeat-with-Agrowaste-as-casing-Materials-on-Growth-and-Yield-of-White-Button-Mushroom-[Agaricus-bisporus-(Lange)-Imbach]-Prdeep-Singh-Shekhawat-166.pdf','',1,'Agaricus bisporus belongs to Basidiomycetes family and is the most important commercially cultivated mushroom in the world. The rich nutrients like carbohydrates, proteins, lipids, fibers, minerals, and vitamins present this mushroom as famous healthy food. An experiment was conducted at the Mushroom Crop Room, Department of Plant Pathology, Sam Higginbottom University of Agriculture, Technology and Sciences, Prayagraj, Uttar Pradesh. The main objectives were to check the effect of casing soils viz. Turmeric leaf powder, Drumstick leaf powder, Tea waste powder, Pomegranate skin waste powder, Garlic leaf powder, with Cocopeat powder @ the ratio of (3:1) per 4kg compost in the growth and yield of white button mushroom as well as against the occurrence of fungal contaminant on the casing soil . The study was conducted in Completely Randomised Design under the agro-climatic conditions of Prayagraj (2021-22). The results revealed that the results revealed that T3[Cocopeat + Turmeric leaf (3:1)] was found to be significantly superior treatment for attaining maximum stalk length (2.93cm), stalk diameter (1.65 cm) and weight of a fruit (28.50 gm) and shortest time for spawn run (19.50). In T2[Cocopeat + Tea waste], the diameter of pilues was found to be maximum. T5[ Cocopeat + Pomegranate skin waste], recorded minimum days for pinhead initiation on casing layer (16.25), highest yield (688.32 gm), maximum per cent increase in yield over control (75.40). Whereas least contamination of Trichoderma hazanium was recorded in T4[Cocopeat + Garlic leaf (3:1)].','Agaricus bisporus, Casing, Cocopeat, Trichoderma harzianum, Yield','During this study, it was evident that the presence of cocopeat + pomegranate peel powder in the treatments showed significant increase in the production as compared to control, pileus diameter(cm), stalk length(cm), and stalk diameter(cm) are maximum in cocopeat + turmeric leaf powder, cocopeat + tea waste powder had the maximum pileus diameter. Cocopeat with pomegranate peel powder, turmeric leaf powder or tea waste powder are good for the casing and garlic leaf powder contains sulphur- containing compounds, such as allicin, alliin and ajoene, enzymes, which have anti-microbial properties including anti-fungal property. This is inhibits the growth of the fungal contaminants. However, the present study only was limited to one rabi season 2021-22 under prayagraj conditions, therefore, to substantiate the present result more trials are needed for 2-3 seasons for further research. The highest yield was recorded in Cocopeat + Pomegranate skin waste contains potassium, sodium, iron and zinc which favours the better growth of mycelium.','-','Prdeep Singh Shekhawat, Sobita Simon, Abhilasha A. Lal and Kharapude Pragati Chandrakant (2023). Effect of Cocopeat with Agrowaste as casing Materials on Growth and Yield of White Button Mushroom [Agaricus bisporus (Lange) Imbach]. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 15(9): 975-980.'),(7571,'165','Impact of integrated Nutrient Management on Soil, Economics, Phenology, Yield of Pearl Millet','Arun, Parvinder Kumar, A.K. Dhaka, Anu, Dikshant Sheoran and Yogesh Kumar ','Impact-of-integrated-Nutrient-Management-on-Soil,-Economics,-Phenology,-Yield-of-Pearl-Millet-Arun-168.pdf','',4,'An experiment was conducted at Research Farm Area, Department of Agronomy, Chaudhary Charan Singh Haryana Agricultural University, Hisar during Kharif 2022 to study the effect of integrated nutrient management on pearl millet. The experiment was conducted in randomized block design with three replications containing 12 treatments. The crop was sown on 12 July, 2022 using pearl millet hybrid ‘HHB 67 improved’. Among the treatments, application of recommended dose of fertilizer (156.25:62.50 kg ha-1 N:P) + 0.5% ZnSO4 + 0.5% FeSO4 + BIOMIX (T12) took maximum number of days to reach various phenological events, had significantly higher number of effective tillers plant-1 (4.05), ear head length (23.37 cm), ear head girth (35.33 mm), test weight (10.90 g) and grain yield (3002 kg ha-1). Maximum gross returns (` 83,909 ha-1), net returns (` 25,716 ha-1), B:C (1.44) and available NPK in soil after harvest was recorded in T12.This crop has a great scope in agriculture and farmer’s field, more focus on the production and marketing of this crop is needed.','Pearl millet, INM, NPK, Phenology, B:C','According to the findings of the study, application of recommended dose of fertilizer (156.25:62.50 kg ha-1 N:P) + 0.5% ZnSO4 + 0.5% FeSO4 + BIOMIX (T12) took maximum number of days to reach various phenological events, had significantly better yield attributes, grain yield, economics and available NPK in soil after harvest. Hence, integrated nutrient management proved to be better option for sustainable soil health, higher yield and income.','-','Arun, Parvinder Kumar, A.K. Dhaka, Anu, Dikshant Sheoran and Yogesh Kumar (2023). Impact of integrated Nutrient Management on Soil, Economics, Phenology, Yield of Pearl Millet. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 15(9): 984-988.'),(7572,'165','Quality and Economics of isabgol (Plantago ovata Forsk.) as influenced by Levels of Potassium and Zinc','Chetana Sharma, M.K. Kaushik, Disha Joshi, Manish Tomar, Bhavna Singh Rathore and Pooja Meena ','Quality-and-Economics-of-isabgol-(Plantago-ovata-Forsk.)-as-influenced-by-Levels-of-Potassium-and-Zinc-Chetana-Sharma-167.pdf','',1,'As compared to secondary nutrients, micronutrients are required by plants in small quantity but their role in plant is important as a part of regulatory enzyme and in synthesis of secondary metabolites. By management of these nutrients, one could achieve the desired quantity and quality of crop yield without altering the potential of natural resources and environment. A field study was conducted during rabi 2021-22 at the Instructional Farm of the Rajasthan College of Agriculture, Udaipur to study the effect of different levels of potassium and zinc on growth, productivity and quality of isabgol using randomized block design with 3 replications. The experiment consisted of 12 treatments comprising of fertilizers combinations viz., 40 kg ha-1 K2O + 30 kg ha-1 Zn, 40 kg ha-1 K2O + 25 kg ha-1 Zn, 40 kg ha-1 K2O + 20 kg ha-1 Zn, 30 kg ha-1 K2O + 30 kg ha-1 Zn, 30 kg ha-1 K2O + 25 kg ha-1 Zn, 30 kg ha-1 K2O + 20 kg ha-1 Zn, 20 kg ha-1 K2O + 30 kg ha-1 Zn, 20 kg ha-1 K2O + 25 kg ha-1 Zn, 20 kg ha-1 K2O + 20 kg ha-1 Zn, 40 kg ha-1 N + 20 kg ha-1 P2O5 + 20 kg ha-1 K2O, 40 kg ha-1 N + 20 kg ha-1 P2O5 and control. The results revealed that application of 30 kg ha-1 K2O + 20 kg ha-1 Zn resulted in significantly higher quality and B-C ratio of isabgol.',' Micronutrients, Quality, B-C ratio, Economics of isabgol','It can be concluded from the present study that application of micronutrients improves the quality parameters like protein content and husk yield of isabgol seed. The net return and B:C ratio was also found to improve with micronutrient application.','-','Chetana Sharma, M.K. Kaushik, Disha Joshi, Manish Tomar, Bhavna Singh Rathore and Pooja Meena (2023). Quality and Economics of isabgol (Plantago ovata Forsk.) as influenced by Levels of Potassium and Zinc. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 15(9): 981-983.'),(7573,'165','Impact of integrated Nutrient Management on Soil, Economics, Phenology, Yield of Pearl Millet','Arun, Parvinder Kumar, A.K. Dhaka, Anu, Dikshant Sheoran and Yogesh Kumar ','Impact-of-integrated-Nutrient-Management-on-Soil,-Economics,-Phenology,-Yield-of-Pearl-Millet-Arun-168.pdf','',1,'An experiment was conducted at Research Farm Area, Department of Agronomy, Chaudhary Charan Singh Haryana Agricultural University, Hisar during Kharif 2022 to study the effect of integrated nutrient management on pearl millet. The experiment was conducted in randomized block design with three replications containing 12 treatments. The crop was sown on 12 July, 2022 using pearl millet hybrid ‘HHB 67 improved’. Among the treatments, application of recommended dose of fertilizer (156.25:62.50 kg ha-1 N:P) + 0.5% ZnSO4 + 0.5% FeSO4 + BIOMIX (T12) took maximum number of days to reach various phenological events, had significantly higher number of effective tillers plant-1 (4.05), ear head length (23.37 cm), ear head girth (35.33 mm), test weight (10.90 g) and grain yield (3002 kg ha-1). Maximum gross returns (` 83,909 ha-1), net returns (` 25,716 ha-1), B:C (1.44) and available NPK in soil after harvest was recorded in T12.This crop has a great scope in agriculture and farmer’s field, more focus on the production and marketing of this crop is needed.','Pearl millet, INM, NPK, Phenology, B:C','According to the findings of the study, application of recommended dose of fertilizer (156.25:62.50 kg ha-1 N:P) + 0.5% ZnSO4 + 0.5% FeSO4 + BIOMIX (T12) took maximum number of days to reach various phenological events, had significantly better yield attributes, grain yield, economics and available NPK in soil after harvest. Hence, integrated nutrient management proved to be better option for sustainable soil health, higher yield and income.','-','Arun, Parvinder Kumar, A.K. Dhaka, Anu, Dikshant Sheoran and Yogesh Kumar (2023). Impact of integrated Nutrient Management on Soil, Economics, Phenology, Yield of Pearl Millet. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 15(9): 984-988.'),(7574,'147','Maximizing Rice Production via Direct Seeded Rice: Insights from Correlation and Path Analysis','Rashad Khan, A. Anandan, T.K. Mishra, D. Lenka and P. Ranjith ','Maximizing-Rice-Production-via-Direct-Seeded-Rice-Insights-from-Correlation-and-Path-Analysis-Rashad-Khan-135.pdf','',1,'Rice is an important food crop in the world by providing higher nutrition to half of the world population. To fulfill the rising demand for food, water and land resources have been extensively exploited in recent years. But with change in the climate and less availability of water there is a huge need of growing the rice with direct seeded condition. The direct seeded rice (DSR) technology has been adopted by rice experts and farmers in the tropics and subtropics as a result of the changing climate. Rice production using the DSR method uses much less freshwater and labor, while also producing more rice, using resources more effectively, and emitting less greenhouse gases. By keeping these aspects in to consideration present experiment was conducted. The present study was conducted on 202 genotypes from the Bengal and Assam Aus rice panels during the Rabi season of 2020-21 investigated nine quantitative traits impacting grain yield. The results observed that a significant positive correlation of grain yield with plant height, flag leaf length, flag leaf breadth, number of tillers per plant, and productive tillers per plant. Focusing on these attributes when selecting plants can enhance production. Furthermore, Path analysis identified the number of tillers per panicle as the primary driver of yield, followed by flag leaf width, productive tillers per plant, and flag leaf length. These results emphasize the importance of these traits in rice improvement programs and suggest their inclusion in selection models to achieve indirect enhancements in yield and overall crop performance. This study provides valuable insights into optimizing rice production by strategically considering specific plant characteristics.','Correlation analysis, direct-seeded rice, path coefficient analysis, rice, yield attributes','In conclusion, this study highlights the crucial role of specific traits in rice yield enhancement. Notably, traits such as the number of tillers per plant, flag leaf width, productive tillers per plant, flag leaf length, plant height, and SPAD exhibit strong positive correlations with grain yield. Path coefficient analysis underscores their direct positive effects on yield. Conversely, days to 50% flowering negatively impacts yield. These findings emphasize the importance of selecting rice plants based on these traits to maximize grain production. Such insights are vital for rice improvement programs, offering a clear path to enhance crop performance and address challenges related to changing climates and sustainable agriculture.','-','Rashad Khan, A. Anandan, T.K. Mishra, D. Lenka and P. Ranjith (2022). Maximizing Rice Production via Direct Seeded Rice: Insights from Correlation and Path Analysis. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 14(4a): 794-797.'),(7575,'165','Effect of Foliar Spray of NAA and Zinc on Growth, Flowering and Yield Parameters of Guava (Psidium guajava) cv. Lucknow-49 under Western Uttar Pradesh conditions','Vishal Gangwar, Satya Prakash, Arvind Kumar, Vipin Kumar, Bharat Tiwari and Shalini Singh ','Effect-of-Foliar-Spray-of-NAA-and-Zinc-on-Growth-Flowering-and-Yield-Parameters-of-Guava-(Psidium-guajava)-cv-Lucknow-49-under-Western-Uttar-Pradesh-conditions-Vishal-Gangwar-169.pdf','',1,'An experiment was carried out at Horticulture Research Centre, Department of Fruit Science, Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel University of Agriculture & Technology Meerut (U.P.), India, during two consecutive years i.e., 2021-22 and 2022-23 to assess the Influence of foliar application of NAA and Zinc on growth, flowering, fruiting and yield of guava cv. Lucknow-49 under western Uttar Pradesh conditions. By supplying the nutritional requirements of fruit crops, the foliar application of micronutrients and plant growth regulators plays a significant role in controlling numerous physiological phenomena, boosting the yield and quality, and increasing the productivity of plants. Twelve treatments viz., three levels each of NAA (0, 50, 75, and 100 ppm) and Zinc (0, 0.4, 0.6, and 0.8%) with their combinations were used, which were replicated thrice in FRBD from the experiments. Out of the Twelve treatment applied, the results revealed that treatment T12 recorded the highest number of leaves per shoot (15.11 and 15.26), number flower per shoot (20.14 and 20.65) and Maximum fruit yield kg/plant (59.56 and 58.81 kg/plant). Among urea and zinc doses, T4 and T9 were found to be best. In the western Indian Indo-Gangetic plains, the combination can be perfect and advised for the cultivation of guava.','Guava, NAA, Zinc, Growth, Flowering, Yield Parameters, Foliar Spray','Based on the aforementioned experiment, it was shown that NAA and zinc had a substantial impact on the development, blooming, and yield characteristics of the guava cv. L-49. One may draw the conclusion that guava plants sprayed with a mixture of NAA 75 ppm + Zinc 0.8% produced the highest possible number of leaves per shoot, flowers per shoot, and yield kg/plant. Zinc 0.8% and NAA 75 ppm worked the best as single dosages. Therefore, it is suggested that under the conditions of western Uttar Pradesh, guava trees be sprayed with a mixture of NAA 75 ppm and zinc (0.8%) three times, beginning one month prior to flowering, at full bloom, and at fruit set, along with suggested cultural practices.','-','Vishal Gangwar, Satya Prakash, Arvind Kumar, Vipin Kumar, Bharat Tiwari and Shalini Singh (2023). Effect of Foliar Spray of NAA and Zinc on Growth, Flowering and Yield Parameters of guava (Psidium guajava) cv. Lucknow-49 Under Western Uttar Pradesh conditions. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 15(9): 989-993.'),(7576,'165','Analysis-of-Morphological-and-Biochemical-Characters-of-Different-Aromatic-Rice-(Oryza-sativa-L.)-Varieties-for-Grain-Quality-Assessment ','Ali Sina Jayhoon, Pushpendra Kumar, Mukesh Kumar, M.K. Yadav, S.K. Singh, Pradeep Kumar and Alamgir ','Analysis of Morphological and Biochemical Characters of Different Aromatic Rice (Oryza sativa L.) Varieties for Grain Quality Assessment-Ali Sina Jayhoon-170.pdf','',1,'Rice (Oryza sativa L.) is the main source of energy, nutrients, fibers, for the largest people in the world, and requirement of rice is increasing day by day. Rice grain quality is more complex character compare to other cereals crops. The appearance, eating and cooking quality in rice composed of numerous morphological and biochemical traits such as grain length, grain breadth, aroma, gel consistency, amylose content and texture of cooked rice. Nine aromatic rice genotypes were studied. Results revealed six genotypes includes, Pusa Basmati-1, Harayan Basmati-2, Pusa Basmati-1612, Vallabh Basmati-22, Pusa Basmati-1609 and Panjab Basmati-5 were extra-long slender grain. Pusa Basmati-1612 had the highest length of raw rice kernel 8.55±0.13 mm and the Kalanamak showed high breadth of raw rice kernel 2.05±0.14 mm. Vallabh Basmati-22 rice variety had high L/B ratio of 5.76 while Kalanamak had least L/B ratio i. e. 2.34. PB-1612 had the highest Test weight (25.03±0.20) among the varieties studied. Based on GC test, the mean value of gel consistency ranged from 33.66±0.57 mm in Panjab Basmati-4 to 122.80±1.70mm in PusaBasmati-1. Most of varieties had high ASV except Pusa Basmati-1612 had low ASV. Mostly aromatic Basmati genotypes had intermediate amylose content. The amylose content ranged from 15.55 % in Kalanamak to 23.79 % in Pusa Basmati-1609. Maximum elongation ratio of rice grain was 1.75 in Haryana Basmati-2 and Kalanamak recorded minimum (1.18) elongation ratio. The kernel length after cooking ranged from 17.48±0.32 mm to 5.68±0.17 mm. All genotypes had strong aroma.','Grain quality, Aroma, Amylose, ASV, GC','In the present investigation mostly rice genotypes were extra-long size, slender shape with strong aroma, and the most preferable characters of rice grain quality. All varieties had desirable L/B ratio >3 except Kalanamak which had L/B ratio <3. Based on gel consistency most of varieties found soft gel consistency and high ASV. Mostly aromatic Basmati genotypes had intermediate amylose content and aromatic non-Basmati genotype had low amylose content. Correlation among varieties under study showed high significant correlation between L/B ratio and kernel length and negative correlation between L/B ratio and breadth. Kernel length after cooking had high significant correlation between length of raw rice and elongation ration. There is no correlations observed between alkali spreading value and other studied characters. ','-','Ali Sina Jayhoon, Pushpendra Kumar, Mukesh Kumar, M.K. Yadav, S.K. Singh, Pradeep Kumar and Alamgir (2023). Analysis of Morphological and Biochemical Characters of Different Aromatic Rice (Oryza sativa L.) Varieties for Grain Quality Assessment. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 15(9): 994-1000.'),(7577,'165','Performance of Mung Bean Varieties with New Generation Fertilizers and Organic Manures','Balveer Singh, Y.K. Singh, Kaushal Kumar, C.L. Maurya, Shikhar Verma, Shakti Singh and Ankit Upadhyay ','Performance-of-Mung-Bean-Varieties-with-New-Generation-Fertilizers-and-Organic-Manures-Shikhar-Verma-171.pdf','',1,'The field experiment took place at the research farm of Chandra Shekhar Azad University of Agriculture and Technology in Kanpur, Uttar Pradesh, during the consecutive summer seasons of 2021 and 2022. The research included twelve unique treatment combinations, featuring two varieties of mung bean (Pusa-1431 and Virat) and six different nutrient management treatments (100% NPK, 75% NPK + 5 t ha-1 FYM, 75% NPK + 5 t ha-1FYM + NPK Consortia, 75% NPK + 5 t ha-1 FYM + Nano-P Spray at 25 DAS, 75% NPK + NPK Consortia + Nano-P Spray at 25 DAS, and 75% NPK + 5 t ha-1 FYM + NPK Consortia + Nano-P Spray at 25 DAS). The experimental design was a factorial randomized block with three replications. The study\'s focus was to evaluate the impact of various nutrient management practices on factors such as plant height, dry matter accumulation, and soil physical and chemical characteristics, across the two distinct crop varieties, IPM 205-7 (VIRAT) and PUSA: - 1431. The study was conducted over two years, 2021 and 2022, and the results were pooled to observe trends. In the domain of plant height, nutrient management practices involving 75% NPK combined with FYM, NPK Consortia, and Nano-P Spray at 25 DAS showed the highest growth, reaching an average height of 59.1 cm at harvest. For dry matter accumulation, the same combination yielded the maximum accumulation of 11.2 at harvest, indicating the robustness of this treatment. In terms of soil physical and chemical properties, the study found that a combination of 75% NPK, FYM at 5 t ha-1, NPK Consortia, and Nano – P Spray at 25 DAS enhanced organic carbon content (0.54%), available nitrogen (193.9 Kg ha-1), available phosphorus (17.4 Kg ha-1), and available potassium (205.9 Kg ha-1). The research importantly concluded that variations in nutrient management could lead to differences in plant growth and soil quality. The application of organic and inorganic components together, such as NPK Consortia with FYM, demonstrated synergy in enhancing both plant and soil health. The study\'s results highlight the importance of precise nutrient management in sustainable agricultural practices. They pave the way for further research and development of tailor-made nutrient solutions that can meet specific crop requirements, contributing to higher yields, and improved soil health.','Soil, Growth, NPK Consortia, Nano P, FYM','The research\'s findings reveal that the integration of organic manures with new-generation fertilizers has a substantial impact on the growth and health of the mung bean crops. Specific combinations, such as 75% NPK + 5 t ha-1 FYM + NPK Consortia + Nano-P Spray at 25 DAS, demonstrated the highest growth, pointing to the potential benefits of innovative nutrient management in sustainable agriculture. The observed differences between the two mung bean varieties, IPM 205-7 (VIRAT) and PUSA: - 1431, offer valuable information for tailored agricultural practices. The results of this study have broad implications for the development of optimized fertilization strategies, and they contribute to the broader understanding of sustainable farming practices. Continued research in this area is essential to validate these findings and to explore further the long-term effects of these nutrient management practices on crop yield, soil health, and environmental sustainability.','-','Balveer Singh, Y.K. Singh, Kaushal Kumar, C.L. Maurya, Shikhar Verma, Shakti Singh and Ankit Upadhyay (2023). Performance of Mung Bean Varieties with New Generation Fertilizers and Organic Manures. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 15(9): 1001-1005.'),(7578,'168','Extent of area under shifting cultivation (Jhum) in North East India has been reduced: A case study at Aizwal district of Mizoram','H.C. Kalita, P. Dutta, S. Borah and Vishram Ram ','Extent-of-area-under-shifting-cultivation-(Jhum)-in-North-East-India-has-been-reduced-A-case-study-at-Aizwal-district-of-Mizoram-HC-Kalita-1.pdf','',1,'The term \"shifting cultivation\" refers to a broad range of crop producing techniques. After growing crops for two to three years, the land is left fallow for a number of years before being further cultivated. The locations under various jhum cycles are currently inadequate. Shifting cultivation often occurs in remote and difficult-to-reach regions, such as dense forests, hilly terrain, and remote valleys. This makes it challenging to physically access and survey these areas. Therefore, to locate moving farmed areas, IRS and LISS-III sensor data from many time periods were used in satellite imagery. While for the years 1988, 1991, 1993, 1994, 1996, 1997, 1999, and 2000, Land-sat TM satellite imagery was used. ERDAS IMAGINE 9.2 image processing has been used to digitally process the satellite data relevant to research region. A correct fallow cycle of shifting agriculture may help to increase watershed conservation while maximizing crop productivity. The jhum regions of the Aizawl district\'s overall geographic area declined by 5.08% to 3.04%. Jhum cycles covered more land in the order of 5 yrs> 10 yrs> 7 yrs>15 yrs. However, it was revealed that there was no place in the Aizawl district with a 20-year cycle. The estimated jhum cycle data may be useful for good strategic jhum farming management in the region. ','Shifting cultivation, Jhum, Fallow cycle, North East India','The jhum farming or shifting cultivation is the practice of cultivating crops by slashing and burning the vegetation in dry season and planting crops in wet season for 1-2 years. The total jhum area of study sites Aizawl of North East India is decreasing since 1988. The highest area of jhum cultivation in Aizawl is under 5 years cycle followed by 10 years cycle, 7 years cycle and 15 years cycle. Remote sensing with time series data and GIS techniques helped in accurate and precise analysis of jhum fallow cycles. These data could contribute to management of jhum farming and helps in proper strategies to the policy makers of a region.','-','H.C. Kalita, P. Dutta, S. Borah and Vishram Ram (2023). Extent of Area under shifting Cultivation (Jhum) in North East India has been reduced: A case study at Aizwal district of Mizoram. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 15(10): 01-06.'),(7579,'168','Crotalaria medicaginea var. neglecta (Fabaceae: Crotalarieae): A New distributional Record for Eastern India','V.K. Mastakar, J. Swamy and R.D. Barman','Crotalaria-medicaginea-var.-neglecta-(Fabaceae-Crotalarieae)-A-New-distributional-Record-for-Eastern-India-VK-Mastakar-2.pdf','',1,'Crotalaria medicaginea var. neglecta (Wight & Arn.) Baker (Fabaceae: Papilionoideae) is distributed in tropical Asia, Australia and Yunnan. In India, the taxa so far reported from South, Central - Western, and Northern India. A field exploration and collection of this taxa from Jharkhand confirms its distribution in Eastern India. A detailed description with photographs is provided to facilitate easy identification.','Addition, Crotalaria, Eastern India, Jharkhand, Leguminosae','The present survey led to the confirmed extended distribution of the taxa in Eastern India, which will help in understanding the detailed ecology and distribution of the species. ','-','V.K. Mastakar, J. Swamy and R.D. Barman (2023). Crotalaria medicaginea var. neglecta (Fabaceae: Crotalarieae): A New distributional Record for Eastern India. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 15(10): 07-08.'),(7580,'165','Biochemical Traits of Selected Mango varieties Collected from Ranipet District','E. Priyavadhana and S. Pandarinathan','Biochemical-Traits-of-Selected-Mango-varieties-Collected-from-Ranipet-District-E-Priyavadhana-172.pdf','',1,'An evaluation of physical, morphological and biochemical traits of twelve varieties of mango were made at Ranipet District and Agricultural College and Research Institute, Vazhavachanur, Tiruvannamalai District. It was observed that cv. Imampasad had the maximum fruit weight (667.33 g), pulp weight (466.67 g), stone weight (130g) and peel weight (68.67 g), cv. Raasal had the maximum fruit length (23.43 cm) and fruit width (16.33cm). The maximum contribution of pulp percentage was recorded in cv. Alphonso (75.46 %) whereas, on other hand maximum peel percentage was obtained from cv. kalepad (11.67 %). The highest stone percentage was noted in cv. Mandanapalli (24.02 %). Fruits of Banganapalli recorded the highest values of total sugar (16.16 %) and Alphonso recorded the highest values of reducing sugars (5.6 %) contents. Alphonso also recorded the highest protein content (895mg/100g pulp). The maximum ascorbic acid content was found in cv. Banganapalli (48 mg/100g), while the titrable acids are highest in cv. Desi type (0.60 %). Sendura recorded the highest Beta-carotene content (1430µg/100g pulp) and Total phenol content (18mg/100g pulp). Highest calcium content (16mg/100gpulp) was recorded in Raspuri.\r\nIn general, we can find variations in biochemical parameters among the different fruits and their varieties. These variations have not been studied and mentioned clearly in the available literatures. Biochemical information’s are scanty in the varieties like Desi type, Imampasand, Raspuri and kalepad. The research work is seems to be first time for the varieties like Benisha, Raasal and Mandanapalli, Thus, need arises to design the experimental research to screen the top three among the tested varieties.\r\nOverall view reveals that Imampasad, Raasal and Alphonso were found better in physical properties where as Banganapalli, sendura and Alphonso recorded their superior biochemical qualities.\r\n','Biochemical, Mangifera indica L., Mango, Ranipet region, Varieties','Fruit consumption has to be encouraged. Fruits should have 20% contribution in overall food consumption. A person should consume at least 20 different fruits per year to get the beneficial of all bioactive compounds. Importance may be given for Mango cultivation and Mango fruit consumption. Mango is the symbol of prosperity and happiness. The results rated the top three mango varieties suitable for Ranipet district farmers, sellers and consumers. The results revealed about the top three mango varieties Alphonsa, Sendura and Banganapalli which are commercially and rarely cultivated in Ranipet district based on the physical and Biochemical parameters.','-','E. Priyavadhana and S. Pandarinathan (2023). Biochemical Traits of Selected Mango varieties Collected from Ranipet District. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 15(9): 1006-1011.'),(7581,'165','Mean Performance Analysis for different characters in Okra (Abelmoschus esculantus L. Moench)\r\n','Amit Kumar, Pramod Kumar, Raghvendra Pratap Singh, Imaran Ali and Roop Kishor Pachauri ','Mean-Performance-Analysis-for-different-characters-in-Okra--Amit-Kumar-173.pdf','',1,'The field experiment was conducted at the Horticulture Research Centre, Department of Horticulture, Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel University of Agriculture and Technology, Meerut, during the summer season of 2020–2021. The experiment used 95 genotypes (20 parents and 75 hybrids) in a randomized block design with three replications. Five plants were selected randomly from each replication and data was recorded following characters: plant height (cm), days to 50% flowering, days to first flowering, inter-node length (cm), number of nodes per plant, number of fruits per plant, fruit length (cm), fruit diameter (cm), number of seeds per fruit, weight of 100 seeds per plant (g), and fruit yield per plant (g). The mean of the parents and the mean of the hybrids were compared, which revealed that the overall performance of the hybrids was superior to their parents. The cross-combination Azad Bhindi-2 × Hisar Unnat and Pusa Mukhmali × VRO-6 showed better results in yield per plant. Thus, it is implied that there ample variability in the genotypes of okra. Yields of present cultivars of okra per unit area are very low, because they have been grown continuously for many years. Therefore, there is a need to improve those varieties and develop new varieties.','Mean performance, Okra, Characters, Growth, Yield','In conclusion, it is evidently clear from the analysis of variance that the okra genotypes used in this study possessed a considerable mean performance as all the characters revealed considerable variation in the observed traits. The mean of the parents and the mean of the hybrids were compared, which revealed that the overall performance of the hybrids was superior to their parents. The mean of the parents and the mean of the hybrids were compared, which revealed that the overall performance of the hybrids was superior to their parents. The cross-combination Azad Bhindi-2 × Hisar Unnat and Pusa Mukhmali × VRO-6 showed better results in yield per plant. Thus, it is implied that there ample variability in the genotypes of okra.','-','Amit Kumar, Pramod Kumar, Raghvendra Pratap Singh, Imaran Ali and Roop Kishor Pachauri (2023). Mean Performance Analysis for different characters in Okra (Abelmoschus esculantus L. Moench). Biological Forum – An International Journal, 15(9): 1012-1017.'),(7582,'163','Status, Guild and Diversity of Avian Fauna in Shergarh Wildlife Sanctuary, Atru District, Baran, Rajasthan, India','Arun Kumar Jatav, A.K. Sharma and Smriti Johari ','Status,-Guild-and-Diversity-of-Avian-Fauna-in-Shergarh-Wildlife-Sanctuary,-Atru-District,-Baran,-Rajasthan,-India-Arun-Kumar-Jatav-96.pdf','',1,'To assess the bird diversity and guild status in the wildlife sanctuary, a study on bird diversity was carried out in the Shergarh Wildlife Sanctuary, Atru, Baran district of Rajasthan from February 2022 to January 2023. The survey resulted in the identification and listing of 125 species from 18 orders, 50 families, and 86 genera. The entire Shergarh Wildlife Sanctuary was covered by a species checklist of birds. Numerous bird species were recorded in the region\'s green spaces, marshes, and terrestrial habitats. 62 species were discovered to be residents, 39 to be seasonal, and the rest rare species on habitat status. In the Shergarh Wildlife Sanctuary, there are 28 (17.64%) omnivores, 29 (23.21%) carnivores, 50 (40%) insectivores, 12 (9.6%) granivores, 3 (2.4%) frugivores, and 3 (2.4%) nectarivores birds. There are many different plant species in the area, which in various ways add to the diversity of bird species. The region has common species, seasonal species, and species listed in the Red Data Book and IUCN. The review here highlights the various aspects of bird diversity that were cataloged over the months and will form the basis for further research. It is intended that the study will be helpful in drawing the attention of the public and state government towards the conservation of the Shergarh Wildlife Sanctuary and the protection of its avian fauna. The present study highlights many aspects of the diversity of birds and their status that have been compiled over the past few months and will serve as the foundation for more study. It is intended that this study will be useful in bringing Shergarh Wildlife Sanctuary protection','Shergarh, Wildlife Sanctuary, bird diversity, Red Data Book species','A total of 125 different bird species were seen in all. A significant wetland region that draws birds may be found at the Shergarh Wildlife Sanctuary along with a variety of plants and animals. This bird fauna is under risk from anthropogenic problems such as habitat fragmentation and degradation, pressure from tourism, and water scarcity in the summer. Additionally, stray dogs, wild cattle, and Nilgai (Boselaphus tragocamelus) herds crushed the chicks and eggs of water birds in this reserve. A greater knowledge of ecological needs and the number of visiting birds will be necessary for the conservation of avian species. The development of conservation plans for this sanctuary and wetland birds in general will benefit from more surveys and in-depth research conducted during various seasons.','-','Arun Kumar Jatav, A.K. Sharma and Smriti Johari (2023). Status, Guild and Diversity of Avian Fauna in Shergarh Wildlife Sanctuary, Atru District, Baran, Rajasthan, India. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 15(5a): 613-622.'),(7583,'165','Effect of Nitrogen Application on Nitrogen use Efficiency indices and Yield at Heading under different Nitrogen Levels of Rice Genotypes','Devika S., Anjali Anand, Pavithra K.S., Elangovan A. and Ramesh R.','Effect-of-Nitrogen-Application-on-Nitrogen-use-Efficiency-indices-and-Yield-at-Heading-under-different-Nitrogen-Levels-of-Rice-Genotypes-Devika-S-174.pdf','',1,'The crucial role of nitrogen (N) in rice development emphasizes the potential of nitrogen fertilizer to increase yield. One key approach to maximize nitrogen use is the development of rice varieties with enhanced nitrogen use efficiency (NUE). The research specifically investigates the variations in genotypic physiological NUE and yield traits under different nitrogen levels. Under high nitrogen (HN) slit conditions, CRDhan 310 and Rasi showed increased nitrogen content compared to other genotypes. Notably, nitrogen use efficiency (NUE) increased with elevated nitrogen application at the heading stage in N22, Pusa44, and Vandana. However, there was no further increase observed at a higher nitrogen level than in HN. N22, especially when cultivated with nitrogen applied at an HN split level, exhibited higher Nitrogen Uptake Efficiency (NUpE) and Nitrogen Utilization Efficiency (NUtE). Nevertheless, as nitrogen levels and application increased, both uptake and utilization efficiencies decreased. Optimal grain production was achieved with a moderate level of nitrogen at the heading stage. Rasi stood out as it demonstrated the highest grain yield among genotypes under a moderate nitrogen (MN) split level. This finding suggests that a balanced and moderate approach to nitrogen application during the heading stage can lead to optimal grain production. This study provides valuable insights into how different rice genotypes respond to varying nitrogen levels. This knowledge is essential for developing more efficient and sustainable rice production practices, ultimately contributing to increased yields and environmental sustainability in agriculture.','N Content, nitrogen utilization efficiency, Nitrogen uptake efficiency, yield, genotype, rice','The importance of nitrogen levels in influencing the nitrogen content in plants, particularly in rice genotypes such as CRDhan310 and Rasi. It emphasizes that these genotypes may have a higher nitrogen uptake or utilization capacity during the HN cleavage stage. The complex relationship between nitrogen levels, nitrogen utilization efficiency, and various physiological factors affecting nitrogen uptake in rice genotypes is acknowledged. The findings suggest that optimizing nitrogen application is crucial for maximizing yield while ensuring efficient use of nitrogen. The variability in nitrogen utilization efficiency among different genotypes and how this efficiency can be influenced by nitrogen levels is a key consideration. Short-term genotypes like N22 and High-N of Vandana are noted for strong nitrogen uptake and utilization efficiency, while certain long-term genotypes show reduced efficiency at high nitrogen levels. The comparison of genotypes across different nitrogen levels is highlighted as providing valuable insights into their performance under varying nutrient conditions. It emphasizes the importance of considering both the specific genotype and the timing and method of nitrogen application to optimize grain yield. The statement suggests that there is an optimal range for nitrogen application and that excessive nitrogen may result in diminishing returns in terms of grain yield. ','-','Devika S., Anjali Anand, Pavithra K.S., Elangovan A. and Ramesh R. (2023). Effect of Nitrogen Application on Nitrogen Use efficiency indices and Yield at Heading under Different Nitrogen Levels of Rice Genotypes. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 15(9): 1018-1023.'),(7584,'168','Analysis of Demand and Supply Gap of Di-Ammonium Phosphate (Dap) in Rangareddy District of Telangana','Satya Sri Kusuma, T. Sudhakar Reddy, D. Srinivasa Reddy and K. Supriya','Analysis-of-Demand-and-Supply-Gap-of-Di-Ammonium-Phosphate-(Dap)-in-Rangareddy-District-of-Telangana-Satya-Sri-Kusuma-3.pdf','',1,'This study was carried out in Rangareddy district in Telangana as according to Ministry of Agriculture, Telangana state is one of the major fertilizer consumer in India, which is in top five position consistently from 2016 to 2021. This study was conducted to know if there exits any demand and supply gap of DAP fertilizer in Rangareddy district. A sample of 108 farmers and 12 dealers were surveyed about DAP fertilizer usage pattern and their demand in fertilizer on paddy, maize, cotton and redgram crops as these are the main cultivated crops in Rangareddy district. By using graphical, percentage and t test methods, total DAP demand was calculated which is about 28345.74 MT in entire Rangareddy district and supply was 10452.61 MT (Agricultural office, Rangareddy district) and there exits a gap about 17893.13 MT and it discussed about demand and supply gap in sample area.','Fertilizer demand, fertilizer supply, demand and supply gap, DAP fertilizer','The current study revealed that there exits a gap in demand and supply of DAP in Rangareddy district because of pandemic effect on fertilizer production and imports in India. So, there is a need to provide sufficient fertilizer supply and also to increase fertilizer production mainly DAP fertilizer.','-','Satya Sri Kusuma, T. Sudhakar Reddy, D. Srinivasa Reddy and K. Supriya (2023). Analysis of Demand and Supply Gap of Di-Ammonium Phosphate (Dap) in Rangareddy District of Telangana. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 15(10): 09-13.'),(7585,'165','Effect of Pre Plant Incorporation of Herbicidal Mixture on Weed Dynamics in Soybean under Black Soil of Jabalpur Region ','Shani Gulaiya, K.K. Jain, Abhinav Rathi, Priya Kochale, Pinki Mehra, Rajkumar Prajapati and Abhishek Sharma ','Effect-of-Pre-Plant-Incorporation-of-Herbicidal-Mixture-on-Weed-Dynamics-in-Soybean-under-Black-Soil-of-Jabalpur-Region-Priya-Kochale-175.pdf','',1,'A field experiment was conducted at Breeder Seed Production Farm, Department of Agronomy, Jawaharlal Nehru Krishi Vishwa Vidyalaya, Jabalpur (M.P.) during Kharif season 2019. The weed associated with crop in experimental field were classified as monocot weeds like Echinochloa colona, Cyperus iria and dicot weeds like Mollugo pentaphylla, Phyllanthus urinaria, Alternenthera philoxeroides. These five species were most dominant, contributing about 100 percent of the total weed flora of monocot and dicot weeds. In weedy check plots the dicot weeds were predominance among the dicot weeds Mollugo pentaphylla was the most dominant weed with maximum relative density (23.14%) followed by Alternenthera philoxeroides (14.89%), whereas monocot weeds contributed (49.99%) to relative density of weeds, However, among the monocot weeds Echinochloa colona marked its presence in more value (26.16%) as compared to Cyperus iria (23.83%). The dry weight of weeds reduction was more pronounced when Diclosulam 0.9% + Pendimethalin 35% SE ready mixture was applied at higher rate i.e. from 20.25 + 787.5 to 45 + 1750 g ha-1. The density and dry weight of weeds were reduced under hand weeding to the maximum extent over herbicidal treatments. The highest weed control efficiency (81.00%) was recorded under application of Diclosulam 0.9% + Pendimethalin 35% SE 45 + 1750 g ha-1 followed by application of Diclosulam 0.9% + Pendimethalin 35% SE at 22.5 + 875 g ha-1 (77.69%). However, the maximum weed control efficiency (95.69%) were observed under hand weeding at 20 and 40 DAS in soybean over herbicidal treatments. ','Weed flora, soybean, relative density, Echinochloa colona, dicot and monocot weeds, hand weeding, weed control efficiency','Based on the foregoing discussion it can be concluded that the dominant weed flora in the experiment field Echinochloa colona and Mollugo pentaphylla was predominant weed flora in experimental field during experiment. However, other monocots like Cyperus iria and dicots like Alternenthera philoxeroides and Phyllanthus urinaria were also found. Density and dry weight of weeds reduction was more pronounced when Diclosulam 0.9% + Pendimethalin 35% SE ready mixture was applied at higher rate i.e. from 20.25 + 787.5 to 45 + 1750 g ha-1 among all the herbicidal treatments. Thus, farmers can adopt the pre plant ncorporation application of Diclosulam 0.9% + Pendimethalin 35% SE ready mixture as a wise alternative for weed management in soybean crop.','-','Shani Gulaiya, K.K. Jain, Abhinav Rathi, Priya Kochale, Pinki Mehra, Rajkumar Prajapati and Abhishek Sharma (2023). Effect of Pre Plant Incorporation of Herbicidal Mixture on Weed Dynamics in Soybean under Black Soil of Jabalpur Region. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 15(9): 1024-1029.'),(7586,'167','Bio-Efficacy of Bio-Rational Insecticides against Pod Borer on Black Gram ','Vijay Kumar, Gagandeep Singh and Ankit Kumar','Bio-Efficacy-of-Bio-Rational-Insecticides-against-Pod-Borer-on-Black-Gram-Vijay-Kumar-5.pdf','',1,'An experiment on the bio-efficacy of bio-rational insecticides against insect pests infesting black gram was conducted at Agronomy farm, Rajasthan College of Agriculture, Udaipur during Kharif, 2018. The experiment was laid out in a randomized block design with three replications in uniformly sized plots measuring 5×4.5 m with three replications. The Variety PU-31 of black gram was sown during last week of June with row to row and plant to plant spacing of 45×15 cm2, respectively. Among different treatments, indoxacarb 14.5 SC a.i./ha caused significant maximum reduction in the population of pod borer.','Helicoverpa armigera, bio-rational insecticides, incidence, management, black gram','It can be concluded that among different treatments, effective treatments were emamectin benzoate 5 SG @ 12g a.i./ha and indoxacarb 14.5 SC a.i./ha. The indoxacarb 14.5 SC a.i./ha caused significant maximum reduction in the population of pod borer.','-','-'),(7587,'165','Evaluation of Diversified Cropping Systems in Kymore Plateau and Satpura Hills Zone of Madhya Pradesh for Productivity','Pramod Kumar, Siddarth Nayak, L.S. Shekhawat, R.P. Sahu, Nirmal Choudhary and Bhumika Singh Lodhi ','Evaluation-of-Diversified-Cropping-Systems-in-Kymore-Plateau-and-Satpura-Hills-Zone-of-Madhya-Pradesh-for-Productivity-Pramod-Kumar-176.pdf','',1,'The present investigation was carried Krishi Nagar Farm, Department of Agronomy, JNKVV, Jabalpur (M.P.) during kharif–rabi season 2022-2023. Major objective of the investigation was to identify most productive cropping system for the region to overcome the several problems posed by existing pre-dominant cropping systems i.e. rice-wheat and rice-chickpea. Major challenges for both pre-dominant cropping systems are heavy specific weed infestation and low productivity. The results of present study revealed thatokra-brinjal cropping system recorded highest rice equivalent yield among all cropping systems and cowpea (vegetable) –potato recorded highest system productivity among all cropping systems. Rice –potato and rice bean (fodder) –berseem (fodder) also recorded substantially higher rice equivalent yield than pre-dominant cropping systems. Present study contributed to find out need based more productive diversified cropping systems for the region.','Cropping system, Crop diversification, Rice-wheat cropping system (RWCS), Rice equivalent yield (REY), System productivity, Water productivity','Based on the foregoing discussion, it can be concluded that that okra-brinjal cropping system recorded highest rice equivalent yield among all cropping systems and cowpea (vegetable) –potato recorded highest system productivity among all cropping systems. Rice –potato and ricebean (fodder) –berseem (fodder) also recorded substantially higher rice equivalent yield than pre-dominant cropping systems. Hence, need based crop diversification should be done by inclusion of vegetable, pulse, oilseed and fodder crops in existing cropping systems.','-','Pramod Kumar, Siddarth Nayak, L.S. Shekhawat, R.P. Sahu, Nirmal Choudhary and Bhumika Singh Lodhi (2023). Evaluation of Diversified Cropping Systems in Kymore Plateau and Satpura Hills Zone of Madhya Pradesh for Productivity. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 15(9): 1030-1033.'),(7588,'168','Elucidating Combining Ability through Line x Tester Analysis for Yield and its Contributing Traits in Isabgol [Plantago ovata (Forsk.)]','Mukesh Kumar Yadav, Amit Dadheech, Amit Kumar and Deepak Meena','Elucidating-Combining-Ability-through-Line-Tester-Analysis-for-Yield-and-its-Contributing-Traits-in-Isabgol-[Plantago-ovata-(Forsk.)]-Mukesh-Kumar-Yadav-4.pdf','',1,'In order to explore the genetic architecture of isabgol (Plantago ovata Forsk.) through combining ability studies, the present investigation was carried out using 45 crosses which were produced using fifteen lines and three testers in a Line x Tester mating design at experimental farm of Plant Breeding and Genetics, Rajasthan College of Agriculture, Maharana Pratap University of Agriculture and Technology, Udaipur (Rajasthan). The experimental material assessed in three environments: E1 (Rabi-2020-21, Instructional Farm, RCA, Udaipur), E2 (Rabi-2020-21, Krishi Vigyan Kendra, Badgaon) and E3 (Rabi-2020-21, Krishi Vigyan Kendra, Banswara) using a randomized block design with three replications in each environment. One of the important reasons for nearly stagnant yields of isabgol may be limited genetic improvement. This might have been due to a narrow genetic base and use of traditional breeding techniques with little or no understanding of the genetic architecture of the target populations. The good general combiner parental lines for seed yield per plant were L1, L5, L14 and L15. SCA effects revealed that out of 45 crosses, 13 hybrids exhibited significant positive SCA effects for seed yield per plant on pooled basis. The crosses, L10 × T3, L11 × T1, L5 × T2 and L1 × T3 showed positive and significant SCA effects in all the environments and over the environments for seed yield per plant. Cross L10 × T3 showed highest positive and significant SCA effects in all the three environments as well as on pooled basis for seed yield and other yield attributing traits. ','Combining ability, Isabgol, Line x Tester and Environment','The crosses, L10 × T3, L11 × T1, L5 × T2 and L1 × T3 showed positive and significant SCA effects in all the environments and over the environments for seed yield per plant. Cross L10 × T3 showed highest positive and significant SCA effects in all the three environments as well as on pooled basis for seed yield and other yield attributing traits. However, due to non-significant economic heterosis and low per se performance for seed yield, the hybrid cannot be selected only on the basis of significant SCA without high per se as a result, high per se performance and significant economic heterosis, as well as a good GCA of parents, should be used to select promising hybrids.','-','Mukesh Kumar Yadav, Amit Dadheech, Amit Kumar and Deepak Meena (2023). Elucidating Combining Ability through Line x Tester Analysis for Yield and its Contributing Traits in Isabgol [Plantago ovata (Forsk.)]. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 15(10): 14-20.'),(7589,'168','Studies on Genetic variability, Heritability and Genetic Advance in Pumpkin (Cucurbita moschata Duch ex. poir)','Dharamraj Kumar, Rohit Maurya, C.N. Ram, Ankur Kumar Pal, Anjali Rani and Mayank Chaudhary ','Studies-on-Genetic-variability-Heritability-and-Genetic-Advance-in-Pumpkin-(Cucurbita-moschata-Duch-ex.-poir)-Dharamraj-Kumar-5.pdf','',1,'The present experiment was carried out to find out the variability among the thirty five diverse genotypes including one check for quantitative traits and qualitative traits. The research was conducted at Main Experiment Station of Department of Vegetable Science, Acharya Narendra Deva University of Agriculture & Technology, (Narendra Nagar), Kumarganj, Ayodhya, U.P. The experiment was conducted in Randomized Block Design with three replications. The wide range of variability among the traits during 2021 (kharif season). Genotypes involved in this study were genetically diverse and have good breeding value, which confirmed the predictions of analysis of variance. Out of 35 genotypes among four genotypes were produced significantly higher yield than best check Narendra Agrim. ','Pumpkin, heritability, variability, PCV, GCV and genetic advance','Four genotypes viz., NDPK-40, 2018/PUMAR-2, 2018/PUMAR-6 and NDPK-33 were found significantly superior for fruit yield per plant than check variety Narendra Agrim. High magnitude of phenotypic as well as genotypic coefficients of variation were observed for the character average fruit weight 49.674 per cent followed by total fruit yield (kg) 44.835. Heritability and genetic advance revealed that high heritability coupled with high genetic advance was recorded for all the characters except days to first fruit harvest, days to first staminate flower anthesis, days to first pistillate flower anthesis and fruit equatorial circumference. Thus, these traits exhibiting high heritability in broad sense and high expected genetic advance as per cent of mean may be considered to be largely governed by additive gene action and therefore, could be effectively improved through selection.','-','Dharamraj Kumar, Rohit Maurya, C.N. Ram, Ankur Kumar Pal, Anjali Rani and Mayank Chaudhary (2023). Studies on Genetic variability, Heritability and Genetic Advance in Pumpkin (Cucurbita moschata Duch ex. poir). Biological Forum – An International Journal, 15(10): 21-24.'),(7590,'157','Impact of Emblica officinalis Fruit Extract on ATPases System under AD-induced conditions in Albino Rat','Kuna Yellamma and Mude Thulasi','Impact-of-Emblica-officinalis-Fruit-Extract-on-ATPases-System-under-AD-induced-conditions-in-Albino-Rat-Kuna-Yellamma-259.pdf','',1,'Alzheimer\'s disease (AD) is the most common neurodegenerative disease, characterized by memory loss, cognitive impairment and personality disorders. There is presently no treatment for this illness despite substantial investigation. However, recent studies have shown therapeutic qualities in Emblica officinalis, natural extract. The aim of this study was to evaluate the efficacy of Emblica officinalis fruit methanolic extract on ATPase activity in the Cerebral Cortex and Hippocampus regions of AD-induced rat brain. Male albino rats which are, 3 months old disease free and experimental animals weighing between 150±25 grams were utilized in the study. They were divided into three groups as described in the materials and methods section. Rats from different groups were sacrificed by cervical dislocation. Cerebral Cortex and Hippocampus regions were isolated and used for estimation of 3 constituents of the ATPase system at selected time intervals. The results demonstrated that the ATPase levels in both brain regions of the AD-induced rats were inhibited while they were brought back to near control levels upon continuous oral administration of Emblica officinalis extract on 60th day of treatment thus demonstrating that EoFM extract had reversal effects on AD induced changes in ATPae system.','Emblica officinalis, Male Albino rat, D-Galactose, ATPases, Cerebral Cortex and Hippocampus','According to the findings of this study, it was evident that EoFME administration to AD-Induced rats normalized the activities of Na+/K+, Mg2+ and Ca2+ -ATPases indicating that EoFM has the potential to maintain ion gradients across biological membranes. They were founded on the concept that adding EoFME to the rat diet boosts membrane-bound transport ATPase activity, which is linked to its anti-oxidative effects. Furthermore, Emblica officinalis fruit extract may produce a variety of beneficial secondary metabolites that are engaged in a number of brain biochemical processes and so protect neurons by stabilizing the structural and functional integrity of the biological membrane.','-','Kuna Yellamma and Mude Thulasi (2023). Impact of Emblica officinalis Fruit Extract on ATPases System under AD-induced conditions in Albino Rat. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 15(5): 1734-1740.'),(7591,'168','Correlation coefficients among Yield Attributing Traits and Disease Assessment Parameters for Rust in French bean (Phaseolus vulgaris L.)','G. Indraja, T.S. Aghora, M. Arivalagan, S. Sriram, P. Nandeesha and Syed Sdarunnisa ','Correlation-coefficients-Among-Yield-Attributing-Traits-and-Disease-Assessment-Parameters-for-Rust-in-French-bean-(Phaseolus-vulgaris-L.)-G-Indraja-6.pdf','',1,'The French bean is a popular leguminous vegetable grown for its green tender pods as well as dry beans. However, the successful cultivation of this crop is hampered by various biotic stresses. Rust induced by Uromyces phaseoli is one among them, and it causes yield losses ranging from 18 to 78% and disease is more severe during the Rabi season. Several fungicides are used to control rust fungus, but their continued use raises ecotoxicological concerns. The correlation measures the relationship between various plant traits and disease assessment parameters and determines the component characters on which selection can be based for improvement of varieties. Correlation studies in French bean aid in determining the relationship between yield enhancing characteristics and disease evaluation factors. In this study, all disease incidence parameters were positively correlated among themselves and inversely correlated with yield per plant. ','French bean, rust, rabi and correlation','The present study can be concluded that disease incidence parameters were correlated positively among themselves. Yield and yield attributing traits were negatively correlated with disease incidence parameters. However, there was a substantial negative association between yield per plant and the Percent Disease Index (PDI) at the end of the season and the rate of infection during pod formation to pod development. Furthermore, a vast number of French bean varieties/lines must be tested for rust. ','-','G. Indraja, T.S. Aghora, M. Arivalagan, S. Sriram, P. Nandeesha and Syed Sdarunnisa (2023). Correlation coefficients Among Yield Attributing Traits and Disease Assessment Parameters for Rust in French bean (Phaseolus vulgaris L.). Biological Forum – An International Journal, 15(10): 25-28.'),(7592,'168','Genetic Variability, Heritability, and Genetic Advance Analysis for Yield and Yield Attributing Traits in Wheat (Triticum aestivum L.)','Shubham Kumawat, Amit Kumar, Satvinder Singh, Kumari Pragati, Sunita Choudhary and Hemant Kumar Jaiswal ','Genetic-Variability-Heritability,-and-Genetic-Advance-Analysis-for-Yield-and-Yield-Attributing-Traits-in-Wheat-(Triticum-aestivum-L.)-Shubham-Kumawat-7.pdf','',1,'Wheat (Triticum aestivum L.) is a vital cereal crop globally, providing sustenance to a significant portion of the world\'s population but in order to feed this growing population, it is necessary to improve genotypes to increase wheat production potential per unit area so, to overcome the barriers in high yield gain the investigation has been taken with 22 wheat genotypes for genetic variability, heritability, and genetic advance for yield and its component traits. Variability analysis revealed significant differences among the genotypes for traits such as plant height, number of grains per spike, test weight, single plant yield, days to maturity, days to heading, flag leaf length, number of tillers per plant, and spike length. High heritability was recorded for the test weight (99%) followed by plant height (97%), days to heading (96.3%), and single plant yield (85%) while low heritability was observed for the number of tillers per plant (39%) and numbers of grains per spike (65%). Additionally, heritability estimates indicated a high degree of heritability for most traits, suggesting the potential for genetic improvement. Notably, single plant yield and flag leaf length exhibited high genetic advance (GA), making them promising targets for wheat improvement. This study provides valuable insights for breeders and researchers working on enhancing wheat productivity to meet the growing demands of the Indian population.','Wheat, genetic variability, heritability, genetic advance, yield','The present study revealed a sufficient amount of variability for the studied traits among the genotypes. Low values of GCV and PCV were observed for yield attributing traits like number of grains per spike, test weight, plant height and spike length as high heritability were also observed for these traits, revealed that less genetic variation present in experimental genotypes with respect to above- mentioned characters. Single plant yield and flag leaf length exhibited a high value of GCV, PCV and high heritability coupled with high genetic advance as percent of the mean showed that presence of high variability indicates possibility of effective selection for the improvement of characters.','-','Shubham Kumawat, Amit Kumar, Satvinder Singh, Kumari Pragati, Sunita Choudhary and Hemant Kumar Jaiswal (2023). Genetic Variability, Heritability, and Genetic Advance Analysis for Yield and Yield Attributing Traits in Wheat (Triticum aestivum L.). Biological Forum – An International Journal, 15(10): 29-32.'),(7593,'168','Study on Efficacy of Planting Methods and Spacing on Growth and Yield Attributes of Onion Produced through Bulb Sets','Annem Pavithra, V. Suchitra, K. Nirosha, R. Preetham Goud and L. Saravanan ','Study-on-Efficacy-of-Planting-Methods-and-Spacing-on-Growth-and-Yield-Attributes-of-Onion-Produced-through-Bulb-Sets-Annem-Pavithra-8.pdf','',1,'A study titled effect of planting method and spacing on the growth and yield of onion (Allium cepa L.) variety N-53 in Southern Telangana Region was conducted during the late kharif season of 2021-2022 at the research field of the Vegetable Block, College of Horticulture, Rajendranagar, Hyderabad in 2022. The research aimed to assess the production potential of late-kharif onion using bulb sets with various planting methods and spacing configurations. The experiment followed a Factorial Randomized Block Design (FRBD) with two factors: planting methods and spacing. Several growth parameters, including plant height (measured at 15, 30, 45, 60, and 75 days after planting), number of functional leaves, and pseudo stem diameter, were recorded during the study. Notably, the study found that the raised bed planting method (M1) significantly influenced these growth parameters, with plant height ranging from 14.2 cm to 39.6 cm, the number of functional leaves ranging from 3.62 to 17.45, and pseudo stem diameter ranging from 0.2 cm to 1.4 cm at different stages of growth. Regarding spacing, a planting configuration of 30 cm × 20 cm demonstrated significantly higher plant height (ranging from 15.1 cm to 41.7 cm), number of functional leaves (ranging from 4.9 to 19.7), and pseudo stem diameter (ranging from 0.5 cm to 1.7 cm) at various stages of growth. The study also evaluated yield parameters, including fresh weight of bulbs, bulb diameter, double bulbs percentage, bolted bulbs percentage, bulb yield per plot, bulb yield per hectare, and marketable yield. Notably, the raised bed planting method (M1) resulted in significantly higher fresh weight of bulbs (80.2 g), bulb diameter (6.6 cm), bulb yield per plot (6.44 kg), total bulb yield per hectare (19.35 t), and marketable bulb yield per hectare (17.28 t). In terms of spacing, a planting configuration of 30 cm × 20 cm showed significantly higher fresh weight of bulbs (84.9 g) and bulb diameter (6.85 cm), while a spacing of 15 cm × 10 cm resulted in significantly higher bulb yield per plot (6.87 kg), total bulb yield per hectare (20.07 t), and marketable bulb yield per hectare (16.9 t). Additionally, the percentage of double bulbs (16.5%) was significantly lower when using a spacing of 15 cm × 10 cm, and the percentage of bolted bulbs (5.1%) was reduced with a spacing of 30 cm × 20 cm. Furthermore, the interaction between planting method and spacing significantly influenced plant height, number of leaves, fresh weight of compound bulbs, and overall yield. The kharif crop is the most important in regulating market prices because if it is delayed or spoiled by whimsy monsoon, prices rise quickly in October and remain high until January or February. To combat the rise in onion prices, grow onions in the late kharif season using a technique known as bulb set technique. These findings highlight the importance of selecting appropriate planting methods and spacing configurations to optimize onion growth and yield in the southern Telangana region.','Planting method, spacing, Late kharif, Bulb Sets, Onion.','Raised bed method of planting which recorded significantly higher growth parameters (plant height, number of functional leaves, pseudo stem diameter), yield attributes and yield over ridge and furrow method along with a plant spacing of 15 cm x 10 cm which recorded higher yields and economic returns can be recommended for onion production through bulb sets during late kharif conditions of Southern Telangana region.','-','Annem Pavithra, V. Suchitra, K. Nirosha, R. Preetham Goud and L. Saravanan (2023). Study on Efficacy of Planting Methods and Spacing on Growth and Yield Attributes of Onion Produced through Bulb Sets. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 15(10): 33-38.'),(7594,'168','Exploring Constraints in the Adoption of Groundnut Production Technologies by CFLD Farmers: A Comprehensive Study','Sanskaran Swami, Rajesh Kumar Verma, Sanju Meena, Vijender Kumar, Priyanka Yadav and Shobhana Bishnoi ','Exploring-Constraints-in-the-Adoption-of-Groundnut-Production-Technologies-by-CFLD-Farmers-A-Comprehensive-Study-Vijender-Kumar-9.pdf','',1,'India is a developing country in which majority of the population lives in villages and their major occupation is agriculture. In India various crops has been cultivated in which Groundnut (Arachis hypogaea) is one of the most important oilseed crops in India. The ICAR has taken key initiative to enhance oilseeds and pulses production and productivity by conducting nationwide Cluster Front Line Demonstrations (CFLDs) through a wide network of Krishi Vigyan Kendras (KVK). Krishi Vigyan Kendra Bikaner continuously conducting the cluster frontline demonstration on groundnut since last five years (2016-2020) to enhance the rate of adoption of groundnut production technologies. An effort has been made to know the Constraints being faced by CFLD farmers in adoption of groundnut production technologies. The most important Constraints faced by the respondents in the adoption of groundnut production technologies demonstrated under CFLD were Unavailability of improved seeds at the time of sowing, High cost of improved seeds, unavailability of technical advice as and when needed, erratic rainfall and Constraints of marketing in remote areas.','Arachis hypogaea, Cluster Front Line Demonstrations, Adoption, Constraints, KVK','• Out of five input Constraints ‘Unavailability of improved seed at the time of sowing’ got first rank with 70.62 MPS followed by ‘Unavailability of fertilizers at the time of sowing’ (68.75 MPS), second and ‘More requirement of fertilizers and manures for groundnut’ (58.12 MPS) given third rank by overall respondents.\r\n• Out of six financial Constraints ‘High cost of improved seeds’ (68.75MPS) which was ranked first followed by ‘High cost of fertilizers’ (68.12 MPS), ‘High cost of plant protection chemicals’ (52.50 MPS) ranked second and third, respectively.\r\n• In eight technical Constraints ‘unavailability of technical advice as and when needed’ (74.37 MPS) ranked first followed by ‘weed control through herbicides are technically complicated practice’ (71.25 MPS) and ‘lack of knowledge about weed control’ (65.00 MPS) was ranked second and third, respectively.\r\n• The rank order of environmental Constraints was ‘‘erratic rainfall’ (91.25 MPS) ranked as first followed by ‘long dry spell’ (85.00 MPS) as second and ‘insect-pests & diseases infestation due to continuous rainfall’ (84.37 MPS) as third for overall respondents of CFLD.\r\n• Under the seven marketing Constraints ‘Constraints of marketing in remote areas’ (90.62 MPS) ranked first followed by ‘lower price at the time of harvesting’ (87.50 MPS) second and ‘lack of storage facility’ (65.62 MPS) ranked third by the overall respondents.\r\nThe most important Constraints faced by the respondents in the adoption of groundnut production technologies demonstrated CFLD were “unavailability of improved seed at the time of sowing”, “high cost of improved seeds”, “unavailability of technical advice as and when needed”, “erratic rainfall” and “Constraints of marketing in remote areas”. \r\nHence, it can be said that farmers in the study area required more exposure to groundnut production technologies through awareness programmes like village level campaigns, kisan goshthies, educational tours, organisation of farmer’s fair etc. Trainings about improved farming practices of groundnut be organized at village level as per the needs of farmers. The farmers in vicinity of demonstration field and nearby villages should be invited at the time of field day so that they can interact with the scientists of the KVK and demonstration farmer and be motivated to adopt the improved technologies of groundnut production. Special sessions of progressive farmers should be organized at village, tehsil and district level to motivate the fellow farmers to enhance the adoption of groundnut production technologies. The period of demonstration programme should be increased so that adoption of groundnut production technologies could be enhanced. It is also to be ensured that farmers get solutions of Constraints as soon as possible as it motivates the farmers to adopt new and improved technologies for groundnut cultivation.\r\n','-','Sanskaran Swami, Rajesh Kumar Verma, Sanju Meena, Vijender Kumar, Priyanka Yadav and Shobhana Bishnoi (2023). Exploring Constraints in the Adoption of Groundnut Production Technologies by CFLD Farmers: A Comprehensive Study. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 15(10): 39-46.'),(7595,'168','Correlation and Path Coefficient Analyses for Grain Yield and its Contributing Traits in Quality Protein Maize (Zea mays L.)','Harshit Tripathi, R.K. Yadav, Lokendra Singh, H.C. Singh, Shweta, Pawan Kumar Saini, Swapnil Dwivedi and Pratyksh Pandey ','Correlation-and-path-coefficient-analyses-for-grain-yield-and-its-contributing-traits-in-Quality-Protein-Maize-(Zea-mays-L.)-Harshit-Tripathi-10.pdf','',1,'The study on quality protein maize for sixteen different characters viz., days to tasseling, days to silking, days to maturity, plant height (cm), cob length (cm), cob diameter (cm), number of grain rows per cob, number of grains per row, cob yield per plant (g), grain yield per plant (g), shelling %, 100 kernel weight (g), protein content (%), lysine content (%), tryptophan content (%), seed vigour index was conducted by making crosses among ten diverse inbred lines in half diallel fashion grown in Randomized Block Design in three replication during Rabi 2020-21 at Student’s Instructional Farm, C. S. Azad University of Agriculture and Technology- 208002, Kanpur, U.P. to assess the correlation and path coefficients. At genotypic and phenotypic level grain yield per plant exhibited significant positive correlation with plant height, cob length, cob diameter, number of grain rows per cob, number of grains per row, cob yield per plant, shelling percent, 100 kernel weight and tryptophan content while negatively significant correlation with days to tasseling, days to silking and lysine content in F1 generation while In F2 ¬ generation, correlation coefficients at genotypic level higher than the corresponding phenotypic correlation coefficient for all the characters. Seven characters viz., plant height, cob diameter, number of grain rows per cob, number of grains per row, cob yield per plant, protein content and tryptophan content showed positive and significant correlation with grain yield per plant. Lysine content showed negatively significant correlation with grain yield per plant while remaining characters showed non-significant values of correlation. At genotypic level cob yield per plant (0.7170) followed by shelling % (0.6912), days to tasseling (0.2839), lysine content (0.0567), seed vigor index (0.0368), tryptophan content (0.0280) and cob length (0.0082) had highest positive direct effect on grain yield per plant whereas at phenotypic level cob yield per plant (0.7796) followed by shelling % (0.4604), number of grains per row (0.0401), cob length (0.0400), days to tasseling (0.0400), number of grain rows per cob (0.0377), tryptophan content (0.0261), 100 kernel weight (0.0219) and lysine content (0.0064) had highest positive direct effect on grain yield per plant. Hence these characters may be considered for selection and improvement of grain yield in quality protein maize.','QPM, correlation, path coefficient, genotype and phenotype','In this study characters viz., plant height, cob length, cob diameter, number of grain rows per cob, number of grains per row and cob yield per plant were found to be the most crucial characters in achieving high grain yield in quality protein maize as they showed significant positive correlation at genotypic and phenotypic correlation along with high positive direct effects at both genotypic and phenotypic level on grain yield per plant in both the generations. Therefore, we need to consider using these traits as the selection criterion to improve grain yield in QPM.','-','Harshit Tripathi, R.K. Yadav, Lokendra Singh, H.C. Singh, Shweta, Pawan Kumar Saini, Swapnil Dwivedi and Pratyksh Pandey (2023). Correlation and path coefficient analyses for grain yield and its contributing traits in Quality Protein Maize (Zea mays L.). Biological Forum – An International Journal, 15(10): 47-54.'),(7596,'168','Impact of Neem-Coated Urea and Nano Urea on Sorghum (Sorghum bicolor (L.) Moench.) Growth and Yield',' N. Balachandar, K. Sharmili, B. Balaganesh and R. Isaac Manuel ','Impact-of-Neem-Coated-Urea-and-Nano-Urea-on-Sorghum-(Sorghum-bicolor-(L.)-Moench.)-Growth-and-Yield-K-Sharmili-11.pdf','',1,'A field experiment was conducted at Karunya University in Coimbatore during the Rabi (2022) growing season to evaluate the impact of nano urea and neem-coated urea on the growth and yield parameters of sorghum. The experiment employed a Randomized Block Design with seven treatments and three replications. Among the treatments, the application of 50% N through neem-coated urea (NCU) + 50% N through nano urea (NU) + P and K demonstrated superior results, comparable to the treatment with 75% N through NCU + 25% N through NU + P and K. These treatments exhibited significant improvements, in plant height (242.1 cm), total dry matter production (14,481 kgha-1), leaf area index (0.95), grain yield (3,375 kgha-1), straw yield (9,843 kgha-1), higher gross return (Rs. 149,764ha-1), net return (Rs. 95,903 ha-1), and a benefit-cost ratio of 2.78.','Sorghum, Neem-coated urea, Nano urea, Nitrogen, Yield, Economics','Based on the field research findings, the application of 50% N through neem-coated urea + 50% N through nano urea, along with P and K, resulted in significantly higher grain and straw yields for sorghum in the southern region of Coimbatore. Additionally, the application of 75% N through neem-coated urea + 25% N through nano urea + P and K can be considered as the second option for achieving higher yields and improved economic returns in sorghum cultivation. This treatment exhibited favourable outcomes in terms of nutrient uptake, plant growth, and yield. These findings highlight the potential benefits of incorporating these fertilizers in sorghum cultivation, contributing to improved agricultural practices and increased crop productivity.','-','N. Balachandar, K. Sharmili, B. Balaganesh and R. Isaac Manuel (2023). Impact of Neem-Coated Urea and Nano Urea on Sorghum(Sorghum bicolor (L.) Moench.) Growth and Yield. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 15(10): 55-58.'),(7597,'167','Bio-efficacy of Bio-Rational Insecticides against Blister Beetle on Black Gram','Vijay Kumar and Gagandeep Singh','Bio-efficacy of Bio-Rational Insecticides against Blister Beetle on Black Gram-VIJAY-6.pdf','',1,'Blister beetle, Mylabris pustulata is a polyphagous pest attacking flowers of black gram. An experiment on the bio-efficacy of bio-rational insecticides against insect pests infesting black gram was conducted at Agronomy farm, Rajasthan College of Agriculture, Udaipur during Kharif, 2018. The experiment was laid out in a randomized block design with three replications. The beetle feeds on flowers and flower buds, the economical yield parts of the plant and devours them. Flower shedding and reduced pod setting result in heavy loss in the grain yield of the crop. Among different treatments, indoxacarb 14.5 SC a.i./ha caused significant maximum reduction in the population of blister beetle and can be used effectively for the management of blister beetle.','Blister beetle, bio-rational insecticides, bio-efficacy, incidence, management, black gram.','-','-','-'),(7598,'168','In vitro Propagation and Genetic Assessment by using Molecular Markers in a New Potato (Solanum tuberosum L.) cv. Kufri Pushkar','Tejinder Singh, V.P.S. Panghal, Subhash Kajla, Bichhinna Maitri Rout, Anil Poonia and Love Sapra ','In-vitro-Propagation-and-Genetic-Assessment-by-using-Molecular-Markers-in-a-New-Potato-(Solanum-tuberosum-L.)-cv.-Kufri-Pushkar-Tejinder-Singh-12.pdf','',1,'The aim of our experiment was to determine the optimal types and concentrations of plant growth regulators used during different stages of micropropagation and assess the genetic fidelity of tissue culture raised plants of a cv. Kufri Pushkar by using reliable markers. The data of shoot bud initiation indicated that combination of 0.25 mg l-1 BAP and 0.5 mg l-1. Kinetin leads to highest number of shoots per explant (3.6±0.07) in (3.3±0.08) days. The maximum number of in vitro shoots per shoot let (4.4±0.15) were recorded when auxins were used in combination with cytokinin (MS medium + 0.25 mg/l BAP + 0.01 mg/l IAA) for shoot proliferation. In vitro root initiation was observed in (2.3±0.10) days on MS medium fortified with 1.5 mg l-1 NAA. The maximum number of in vitro roots per shoots (14.0±0.37) were observed when MS media fortified with 2.0 mg l-1 IBA. In vitro raised plants were assessed for genetic fidelity by using molecular markers. DNA banding patterns of all tissue culture raised plants and mother plants were monomorphic showing true to type planting material. This protocol for tissue culture propagation along with testing its genetic fidelity could be useful for successful application of gene transfer technique.','Shoot proliferation, micropropagation, Solanum tuberosum L., genetic markers','An efficient micropropagation via shoot tips as initial explants along with its genetic fidelity was described for potato cv. KufriPushkar. The studies could also be expanded for the successful application of gene transfer technique and better conservation of germplasm. However, this work will contribute to the global demand for the production of high-quality virus-free potato planting material, to enhance the yield and productivity of the crop.','-','Tejinder Singh, V.P.S. Panghal, Subhash Kajla, Bichhinna Maitri Rout, Anil Poonia and Love Sapra (2023). In vitro Propagation and Genetic Assessment by using Molecular Markers in a New Potato (Solanum tuberosum L.) cv. Kufri Pushkar. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 15(10): 59-67.'),(7599,'168','Population Monitoring and Larval Infestation of Fruit Flies in Important Cucurbit Crops in Kashmir','Saima Hamid, Pathania S.S., Hussain B., Sofi M.A., Bano Parveena, Sushil Kumar and Tamjeeda Nisar','Population-Monitoring-and-Larval-Infestation-of-Fruit-Flies-in-Important-Cucurbit-Crops-in-Kashmir-Pathania SS-13.pdf','',1,'Population monitoring of fruit flies, Bactrocera spp. (Diptera: Tephritidae) was carried at Vegetable Experimental Farm, Faculty of Horticulture, SKUAST, Shalimar during 2021-22. Larval infestation on different cucurbit crops i.e. Bottlegourd, Bittergourd, Ridgegourd, Muskmelon and Cucumber was assessed from a month of crop transplanting till final harvest. Adult fruit flies were monitored from 28th to 43rd SW; the trap catch got initiated from 28th SW as 2.2 fruit flies adults per trap which gradually increased in subsequent weeks till it peaked to maximum catch of 23.6 adults per trap in 37th SW; and thereafter decreased in succeeding weeks. The larval count of Bactrocera cucurbitae, B. dorsalis, B. scutellaris in different cucurbit crops started from 2nd week of August (34th SW), and gradually increased in successive weeks till first fortnight of September (37th SW). In different cucurbit crops, the larval population was in the range of 16.66-22.55 larvae per fruit. ','Monitoring, Larval infestation, Bactrocera species, Cucurbits, Fruit harvest','After monitoring the cucurbits by using different lures, three species of Bactrocera were reported viz., Bactrocera cucurbitae (predominant), Bactrocera scutellaris and Bactrocera dorsalis. The larval population in Bottle gourd genotype/varieties, started from the ending July, and gradually increased in successive weeks. The mean fruit flies larval infestation for all the fruit harvests revealed the highest count of 16.66 larvae/fruit in genotype BOG-HYB-1. The larval population in different cucurbit germplasm revealed the highest larval count during the 37th and 39th SW. Among all the Cucurbit crops, Cucumber had maximum population count as 22.55 larvae/plant; and minimum population of 1.46 larvae/ plant in Bitter gourd. ','-','Saima Hamid, Pathania S.S., Hussain B., Sofi M.A., Bano Parveena, Sushil Kumar and Tamjeeda Nisar (2023). Population Monitoring and Larval Infestation of Fruit Flies in Important Cucurbit Crops in Kashmir. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 15(10): 68-72.'),(7600,'168','Animals as Bioindicator to Predict Weather Forecasting in Tamilnadu','S. Usha and T. Mahesh','Animals-as-Bioindicator-to-Predict-Weather-Forecasting-in-Tamilnadu-S-Usha-14.pdf','',1,'A study was conducted at Salem and Kanchipuram districts of Tamil Nadu to find out various indigenous weather forecasting methods followed by ethnic people, especially farmers and fisherman. Biotic indicators are used by farmers for weather prediction in indigenous knowledge\'s covering various beliefs and customs, social and religious taboos, music, ecology communication methods, vegetation, season and climate etc. The bioindicators are mainly focused in this study based on the behaviour of animals. The farmers and ethnic people were selected by using simple random sampling. The data was collected in personal interview by using well structured and pre tested interview schedule. The percentage analysis used to analyze the collected data. Among different indigenous practices, based on behaviour of animals fourteen traditional weather prediction related to rainfall and other climate changes were identified. These are grass roots innovations which are helpful to the farmers to make their farming decisions and cropping patterns and other related activities. ','Animal behaviour, Traditional knowledge, Weather foresting, Salem, Kanchipuram, Tamil Nadu','The study revealed that traditional knowledge systems have the various ethnic and local communities in the area where they live in harmony with their environments for many generations. This traditional knowledge systems are important tools in environmental conservation and natural disaster management. The changing animal behaviour predict rainfall forecasting can be utilized for the purpose of short-term and long-term seasonal rainfall predictions by local communities. These are grassroots innovations which are time tested and facilitated by the farmers to make their farming decisions according to seasons. ','-','S. Usha and T. Mahesh (2023). Animals as Bioindicator to Predict Weather Forecasting in Tamilnadu. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 15(10): 73-76.'),(7601,'168','Bacculoviruses: A Novel Approach in Integrated Pest Management','Pathania S.S., Mushtaq T., Bano P., Sofi M.A., Kumar S., Nisa B.U., Zahoor S. and Mushtaq H. ','Bacculoviruses--A-Novel-Approach-in-Integrated-Pest-Management-Pathania-SS-15.pdf','',1,'Overdependence and indiscriminate use of synthetic chemical insecticides has poisoned almost every component of the environment, besides leading to insecticide resistance among insects, secondary pest outbreaks, residue problems in consumable commodities and human health hazards. In recent years, the utmost emphasis is being placed on use of bio pesticides and other non-chemical methods to manage insect- pests. Much of the current research and attention is being emphasized on the use of Microbial pesticides such as viruses, fungi, bacteria etc. for integrated pest management. Viruses of few families are known to infect vertebrates but only those belonging to family Baculoviridae have been used as biocontrol agents or commercialized as biopesticides. Baculoviruses are self-perpetuating, host specific, safer to natural enemies and known for causing high epizootic levels and are known to regulate many insect populations in nature. Their host-specificity is very high, usually restricted to a single or a few closely related insect species. Baculoviruses based pesticides are compatible with integrated pest management strategies and the expansion of their application will significantly reduce the risks associated with the use of synthetic chemical insecticides. Baculoviruses are being considered as one of the viable options to chemical pesticides as they are target specific, least toxic to natural enemies besides environment friendly. This review attempts to give an overall picture of baculoviruses as eco-friendly potential control agents, in view of the recognition of hazards posed by the more commonly used chemical insecticides in recent years. Still now, commercialization of baculoviruses is a major challenge, therefore researchers and stakeholders give attention to optimize massive production of baculoviruses for integrated insect pest management.','Baculoviruses, Biopesticides, Nuclear Polyhedrosis viruses, Granulosis viruses, Virions, Lepidoptera','The use of synthetic insecticides will be continued due to limited information of alternative insect pest management practices. The effective public extension services, government policies, and farmer education are important to expand the use of viral insecticides as well as for further development in the production and use of these insecticides. In addition, introducing and evaluating commercial available baculoviruses bio-insecticides need to be practiced.','-','Pathania S.S., Mushtaq T., Bano P., Sofi M.A., Kumar S., Nisa B.U., Zahoor S. and Mushtaq H. (2023). Bacculoviruses: A Novel Approach in Integrated Pest Management. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 15(10): 77-82.'),(7602,'168','Assessing the Association of various Attributes of Farmers with the Applicability of KMAS','Aastha Nigam, H.K. Awasthi and P.K. Pandey ','Assessing-the-Association-of-various-Attributes-of-Farmers-with-the-Applicability-of-KMAS-Aastha-Nigam-16.pdf','',1,'Although the use and adoption of mobile phones has skyrocketed, these fundamental socioeconomic and demographic factors—income, education, gender, and age—remain barriers to adoption and use. By giving the rural public a new platform, mobile devices in a way draw attention to the value of bilateral contact and its potential for personalized information. The study was conducted using a random sampling technique on 120 farmers in the Raipur district of Chhattisgarh state with the aim of determining the relationship between the various attributes such as Socio economic, Socio psychological, Communication, various dimensions of message of farmer-subscribers and the applicability of the messages delivered by the Kisan Mobile Advisory Service (KMAS). The respondents were personally interviewed while the data was being gathered using a structured schedule. Mean, Standard deviation, Frequency, Percentage, Karl Pearson\'s correlation coefficient (r), Multiple regression were used to examine the data in order to provide a meaningful interpretation. The correlation coefficient analysis discovered that respondents\' characteristics such as education, land holding size, annual income, innovativeness, contact with extension workers, mass media exposure, understandability of the message and usefulness of the message have a significant relationship with the applicability of the advisory delivered through Kisan Mobile Advisory Service at the 0.01 level of probability, whereas scientific orientation, risk orientation, and use of information has a significant relationship with applicability of the advisory delivered through Kisan Mobile Advisory Service at 0.05 level of probability. While the regression analysis showed that there is significant relationship between the selected independent and dependent variables i.e. 47.7% of the variations in dependent variable are due to the selected independent variables.','Kisan Mobile Advisory Service (KMAS), ICT, Applicability of ICT, SMS, Regression analysis','On the basis of above findings, it can be concluded that the farmers education, land holding size, annual income, innovativeness, contact with extension workers, mass media exposure, understandability of the message, usefulness of the message, scientific orientation, risk orientation, and use of information have significant relationship with the applicability of the message. The results allow us to draw the conclusion that these variables should be taken into account when choosing farmers to participate in extension programmes. When it comes to assisting farmers in our nation make informed decisions that will result in profitable farming in areas where the ratio of extension agents to farmers is low, KMAS has a wide range of options. In India, where mobile networks and handsets are becoming more widely used, there is a chance to provide farmers with vital information more quickly and widely.','-','Aastha Nigam, H.K. Awasthi and P.K. Pandey (2023). Assessing the Association of various Attributes of Farmers with the Applicability of KMAS. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 15(10): 83-87.'),(7603,'168','Effect of Nutrient Management on Morpho-physiological Growth and Quality of Garlic (Allium sativum L.) cv. G-50','Sanat Kumar Prajapati, B.R. Pandey, Deepak Singh, Vibhootee Garg and Gaurav Dixit','Effect of Nutrient Management on Morpho-physiological Growth and Quality of Garlic _Allium sativum L._ cv-17.pdf','',1,'Alliums are among the oldest cultivated plant species. The most widely cultivated garlic belongs to the genus Allium which is used as a common spice and condiment crop. With continuous production, soil fertility may be depleted as a result of intensive cropping, improper fertilization, and the absence of micronutrient applications, as well as the use of less or no organic manures. To sustain a higher level of soil fertility and crop productivity, complementary use of chemical fertilizers with organic manures has assumed great importance nowadays. The present experiment was conducted at Vegetable Research Centre, Maharajpur, Department of Horticulture, Jawaharlal Nehru Krishi Vishwa Vidyalaya, Jabalpur (M. P.) during Rabi season of 2020-21 for evaluating the effect of nutrient management on growth and quality of garlic (Allium sativum L.) cv. G-50”. The experiment was carried out in Randomized Block Design (RBD) with three replications in10 treatment combinations. The maximum plant height (38.35cm, 56.27cm and 69.08) at 30,60 and 90 days after sowing, highest number of leaves per plant was found with T7 (50:25:25 kg NPK+ Vermicompost 3.75 t/ha).length of leaves (35.22 cm, 48.24 cm, 63.80 at 30, 60, 90 days after sowing respectively), leaf width (0.88 cm, 1.17 cm, 1.51 cm at 30, 60, 90 days after sowing), other parameters like length of pseudostem, width of pseudostem. Highest TSS (36.62 oBrix and maximum bulb dry matter content (40.44 per cent) was found under treatment T7 (50:25:25 kg NPK+ vermicompost 3.75 t/ha). However, the minimum value for above parameters were absorbed under treatment(T1)-Control and (T4) Poultry Manure 7.5 t/ha.','Garlic, Vermicompost, Quality, RDF, NPK, Manureand G-50.','According to the assessment, the treatment T7, which included the application of a combination of 50:25:25 kg NPK and Vermicompost at a rate of 3.75 t/ha, resulted in a superior response in garlic compared to all other treatment combinations. The integration of both inorganic and organic sources, such as vermicompost, poultry manure, and farmyard manure, had a significant impact on the morphological growth and quality of garlic. ','-','Sanat Kumar Prajapati, B.R. Pandey, Deepak Singh, Vibhootee Garg and Gaurav Dixit (2023). Effect of Nutrient Management on Morpho-physiological Growth and Quality of Garlic (Allium sativum L.) cv. G-50. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 15(10): 88-92.'),(7604,'146','Enhanced effect of Plant Growth Regulators in inducing and Retaining Flowering in Sapota (Manilkara zapota L.) cv. Kalipatti','Jannila Praveena, S.N. Dash, Kabita Sethi, R.K. Panda and S.C. Swain','Enhanced effect of Plant Growth Regulators in inducing and Retaining Flowering in Sapota _Manilkara zapota L._ cv-245.pdf','',1,'A field experiment was conducted at Horticultural Research Station, Odisha University of Agriculture and Technology, Bhubaneswar during 2020-2022. The experiment was carried out with ten treatments involving different concentrations of plant growth regulators viz., Brassinolide (0.5 ppm and 1.5 ppm), Salicylic acid (150 ppm and 300 ppm), NAA (150 ppm), and their combinations were embedded in Randomized Block Design with three replications. The major problem confronting sapota production is flower and fruit drop at different stages of production, which causes a drastic loss to the sapota farmers. The major aim of the research was to control the flower drop by use of new generation plant growth regulators and their combinations. The growth regulators were applied as foliar spray during three phenological stages (vegetative, flowering and pea stage of fruiting). The results obtained from this experiment showed that combined effect of Brassinolide and NAA (1-Naphthalene Acetic Acid) has significant effect on flowering parameters. Application of Brassinolide 1.5 ppm along with NAA 150 ppm showed the maximum value for, duration of flowering (34.57 days), number of flowers per shoot(37.86), flower retention percentage(40.08 %), minimum value for flower drop %(59.92 %), days to initiation of flowering (31.46 days) over control.','Sapota, Plant growth regulators, Brassinolide, Salicylic acid, NAA.','CONCLUSIONS\r\nThe result of present study conclusively showed that effect of plant growth regulators had significant effect on different flowering parameters of sapota cv. Kalipatti. Foliar application Brassinolide 1.5 ppm along with NAA 150 ppm had pronounced effect to induce a greater number of flowers, more flower retention and in controlling the flower drop percentage over other treatment tested in sapota cv. kalipatti. This might be due to application of brassinolide modulate the metabolic pathway by modifying signaling pathway analysis and involvement of auxin helps in better translocation of food materials. \r\n','-','Jannila Praveena, S.N. Dash, Kabita Sethi, R.K. Panda and S.C. Swain (2022). Enhanced effect of Plant Growth Regulators in inducing and Retaining Flowering in Sapota (Manilkara zapota L.) cv. Kalipatti. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 14(4): 1376-1380.'),(7605,'168','Efficacy of Non conventional Insecticides on the Incidence of Major Insect Pests of Cabbage','N. Johnson Singh, L. Somendro Singh, Ph. Chandramani Singh, N. Soranganba and Ramgopal Laha ','Efficacy-of-Non-conventional-Insecticides-on-the-Incidence-of-Major-Insect-Pests-of-Cabbage-N-Johnson-Singh-18.pdf','',1,'Cabbage, Brassica oleraceae L., is an important cole crop vegetable mostly grown in large area of Manipur. However, higher rate of pest infestation likely to occur, which hinder its total production and consumption. Continuous use of synthetic pesticides in agricultural pest management often leads to various negative impacts such as development of resistance by the pest, adverse effect on non-target organisms and hazardous effect on environment. These drawbacks led to an alternative approaches for control of crucifer pests that are cost effective, biodegradable, low toxic effect on non-target organisms and eco-friendly. The resource poor small scale farmers are unaware for control measures of the pests. Therefore, an experiment was undertaken for consecutive two years during the Rabi (winter season) of 2019-20 and 2020-21 at demonstration unit, ICAR-Krishi Vigyan Kendra, Churachandpur revealed that the combined application of neem oil 0.15% and Spinosad 45% SC significantly reduced the infestation of mean larval population of P. xylostella and P. brassicae (2.0 and 4.0/plant), respectively. The results also indicated that the plots treated with neem oil 0.15% and agricultural petroleum spray oil minimized the incidence of B. brassicae against the untreated control plot. The mean yield varied from 13.0 to 19.7 t/ha was recorded in treated plots compared with 10.40t/ha in the untreated control. This review brings together all the information of different organic based practices for management of crucifer pests and that are being reported. This will help in establishing the knowledge of limited studies on pest management using different non chemical control methods to more challenging research and conveys the importance of pest management system for taking research forward.','Cabbage, efficacy, insect pests management, non-conventional insecticides, yield','The study advocates that in cabbage crop grown organically B. brassicae can be managed by using neem oil 0.15% + agricultural petroleum spray oil whereas neem oil 0.15% + Spinosad 45% SC for P. xylostella and P. brassicae, respectively. Management programs that emphasize biological and cultural controls can integrate Spinosad and other insecticides like neem oil and Agricultural petroleum spray oil sparingly, thereby prolonging their usefulness so that the use of chemical pesticides can be minimized. ','-','N. Johnson Singh, L. Somendro Singh, Ph. Chandramani Singh, N. Soranganba and Ramgopal Laha (2023). Efficacy of Non conventional Insecticides on the Incidence of Major Insect Pests of Cabbage. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 15(10): 93-97.'),(7606,'168','Inhibitory Effect of Nano-fungicides and Fungicides on Mycelia Radial Growth of Phytopthora infestans under in-vitro condition','Gajendra Pratap, Samir Kumar Biswas, Bipin Verma and Naimish Kumar','Inhibitory-Effect-of-Nano-fungicides-and-Fungicides-on-Mycelia-Radial-Growth-of-Phytopthora-infestans-under-in-vitro-condition-Bipin-Verma-19.pdf','',1,'Phytophthora infestans (Mont) de Barry, causing Late blight of potato is one of the most devastating diseases of potato worldwide. The disease is distributed all over the world like North & South America, Europe, Asian continents. P. infestans is a destructive pathogen that is causing huge losses to potatoes in hilly as well as plains regions of India and can cause yield losses up to 95% in epidemic conditions. The present study is carried out to check inhibitory effect of nanofungicides and fungicides against Phytophthora infestans. Among nanofungicides, silver nanofungicide @ 100 ppm was found highly effective and inhibit the growth by75.70% followed by agritecnanofungicide (68.81%) and selenium nanofungicide (66.67%) during 2021-22 and silver nanofungicide with 72.25% followed by agritecnanofungicide (63.82%) and selenium nanofungicide (61.58%) during 2022-23. Among fungicides, maximum inhibition (80.25%) was observed in matco @ 0.2% followed by mancozeb (73.72%) and propiconazole (71.01%) during 2021-22 and matco with 75.95% followed by mancozeb (68.97%) and propiconazole (66.13%) during 2022-23 under in vitro condition.','Fungicide, Late blight, Radial mycelial growth and Growth inhibition','The data presented in Tables 1 and 2 indicated that both conventional fungicides and nano-fungicides significantly inhibited the radial growth of the P. infestans pathogen compared to the control. Among the conventional fungicides, Matco at 0.2% demonstrated the most effective inhibition, with 80.25% and 75.95% reductions in mycelial growth during 2021-22 and 2022-23, respectively. Among the tested nano-fungicides, Silver at 100 ppm was the most effective, achieving significant mycelial growth inhibition of 75.70% and 72.25% during the both years, respectively. All the nano fungicides and fungicides evaluated significantly control the disease. So, they can be used to manage the disease under natural field condition. Nanofungicides may be applied widely and safely instead of using the commercially available synthetic fungicides, which show higher toxicity to humans.','-','Gajendra Pratap, Samir Kumar Biswas, Bipin Verma and Naimish Kumar (2023). Inhibitory Effect of Nano-fungicides and Fungicides on Mycelia Radial Growth of Phytopthora infestans under in-vitro condition. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 15(10): 98-102.'),(7607,'165','An Economic Analysis of Jute in Katihar District of Bihar','S. Nayak, M.K. Wadhwani and S. Susovita','An Economic Analysis of Jute in Katihar District of Bihar-S Susovita-177.pdf','',1,'The study analyzed the cost of cultivation, gross returns and net return of jute growers in Katihar district of Bihar. The sample size used in the study was 90 jute growers. The SRSWOR approach with the Multi-stage Sampling Technique was used to collect samples from two clusters in the Katihar District, Kadwa and Mansahi, each comprising three villages in each of the two blocks. Pre-tested schedules assisted in the data collection process, which was conducted using the Survey Method. Twenty-nine small and marginal farmers (32.33%), thirty semi-medium farmers (33.33%), twenty-one medium farmers (23.33%), and ten large farmers (11.11%) made up the study sample. The results showed that average total cost of cultivation of jute was ₹ 57792.70/ha, which was highest on large farmers (₹ 59918.67/ha), followed by small & marginal farmers (₹ 59063.89/ha), semi-medium farmers (₹ 57718.79/ha) and ₹ 55911.38/ha was for medium farmers. On an average gross return obtained by 90 sample farmers was (₹ 85940/ha). The return to cost ratio on an overall basis of 90 sample farmers was estimated as 1.48. The findings will be helpful to jute growers in efficient use of resources to reduce the cost of cultivation of jute.','Multi-stage Sampling Technique, SRSWOR, Cost of cultivation.','The study was based on primary data, collected from a sample of 90 jute growers selected through Multi-stage Sampling Technique through survey method from a cluster of three villages each from two blocks namely Kadwa and Mansahi of Katihar District. The sample consists of 32.33 per cent (29) marginal & small farmers, 33.33 per cent (30) semi-medium farmers, 23.33 per cent (21) medium farmers and 11.11 per cent (10) large farmers. The results showed that average total cost of cultivation of jute was ₹57792.70/ha, which was highest on large farmers (₹ 59918.67/ha), followed by small & marginal farmers (₹ 59063.89/ha), semi-medium farmers (₹ 57718.79/ha) and ₹ 55911.38/ha was for medium farmers. The gross income obtained by jute growers was lowest for marginal & small farmers with (₹ 74117.12/ha), while it was highest for large farmers obtained higher gross income of (₹ 100980/ha), on an average gross return obtained by 90 sample farmers was (₹ 85940/ha). The return to cost ratio on an overall basis of 90 sample farmers was estimated as 1.48.\r\nThe findings will be helpful to jute growers in efficient use of resources to reduce the cost of cultivation of jute. They will be able to identify proportion of input and labor used in its cultivation. The jute growers will become more conscious about the various costs, particularly the indirect and imputed costs that are used during the production of jute. The findings can be utilized by economists, scientist and administrators to understand the existing position of jute cultivation in the study area, they will also be aware of the constraints of production and marketing of jute faced by jute growers and will enable them to develop alternate means to overcome these in the study area. The research can be further extended to analyze the resource use efficiency in jute cultivation as well as several frontier-based approach may be used to analyze the trend in efficiency of jute production in the state.','-','S. Nayak, M.K. Wadhwani and S. Susovita (2023). An Economic Analysis of Jute in Katihar District of Bihar. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 15(9): 1034-1040.'),(7608,'163','Covid-19 Vaccine Developments: A Review','T. Sujatha, P. Siva Raagini and R. Shyamala Chandra','Covid-19-Vaccine-Developments-A-Review-T.-Sujatha-97.pdf','',1,'COVID-19 is an RNA virus that belongs to the family Corona viridae and is responsible for the unique SARS-CoV-2 infection. As of 23 September 2022, 771,151,224 confirmed cases of COVID-19, including 6,960,783 deaths, reported to WHO and a total of 13,513,207,331 vaccine doses have been administered. There is no specific therapy available for this disease with different spectra of pathogenicity and prevention by vaccine is the best suggested option. Therefore, research facilities all over the world are working to create an efficient vaccine against this ailment, as this is crucial in lowering mortality rates. Over 200 potential vaccines against COVID-19 have been identified. Currently, testing on humans is being done on almost 52 seeker vaccines. The majority of these vaccine candidates function by encouraging the immune system to target the shaft protein (S)or by blocking the ACE-2 receptor, which helps prevent the entry of the virus into the cells. Merits and drawbacks are associated with the various vaccine development platforms like inactivated whole virus, deficient adenovirus, recombinant protein, and viral RNA that is currently in use. The different vaccine platforms, advocates, and development strategies are discussed alongside the difficulties of developing a vaccine against SARS-CoV-2.','Candidate vaccines, ACE-2 receptor, vaccine platforms, SARS-CoV-2','Since the first SARS-CoV-2 illness case was reported in 2019, more than 230 vaccine candidates are now being developed, with the majority of them already having received Emergency Use Authorizations (EUAs). In an effort to increase the rate at which new vaccines can be introduced to the market, ethical review boards are tightening their approval criteria, and pharmaceutical companies are entering into potentially riskier strategic alliances with vaccine development organizations. The COVAX project and other coalitions have been supported by over 150 countries to ensure equitable distribution and supply. Attempts to restore normalcy have been aided by certain governments\' upfront payments for vaccination doses. Many questions remain about COVID-19 immunity, but data from Phase 3 trials should help us draw more definitive conclusions about the factors that predict safety from infection with COVID-19 and about various vaccine candidates. There are likely to be a number of different vaccine candidates using a variety of vaccine delivery methods needed to combat the COVID-19 pandemic. More vaccines that have been given the green light means more vaccine doses may be manufactured in less time, which might be used to vaccinate a large population. However, different vaccine platforms will produce vaccine candidates for varying degrees of defense against populations with altered immune responses, such as kids, pregnant women, people with co-morbidities, and people who are immunosenescent (those whose immune systems have lost the capacity to function properly after the age of 65). Clinical studies helped verify the vaccines\' effectiveness and determine the extent to which they protected against COVID-19.','-','T. Sujatha, P. Siva Raagini and R. Shyamala Chandra (2023). Covid-19 Vaccine Developments: A Review. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 15(5a): 623-631.'),(7609,'168','Nitrogen and Azotobacter\'s Impact on Soil characteristics and Nutrient\r\navailability','Gajraj Yadav, Neeraj Kumar, Kumar Anshuman, Ankit Singh, Sandeep Yadav, Pankaj Singh and Ram Ratan Singh','Nitrogen-and-Azotobacters-Impact-on-Soil-characteristics-and-Nutrient-availability-Kumar-Anshuman-20.pdf','',1,'An experiment conducted during the Rabi season of 2016-17 at the Instructional Farm of Acharya Narendra Deva University of Agriculture & Technology, located in Narendra Nagar, Kumarganj, Ayodhya (U.P.), aimed to assess the impact of various nutrient management practices on soil properties and nutrient availability. The experiment featured ten different treatments, including a control (T1: N-0, P-60, K-40 kg/ha-1 ) and variations involving Azotobacter inoculation, varying levels of nitrogen (N) application, and combinations thereof. These treatments were replicated in a randomized block design (RBD) with triplicate plots, and wheat variety PBW-343 was chosen as the test crop. The findings indicated significant changes in soil parameters. Notably, there was a decrease in soil pH (8.13), electrical conductivity (0.29), and bulk density (1.39) across various treatments. The highest improvements in nutrient availability, including nitrogen (178 kg ha-1 ), phosphorus (20.5 kg ha-1 ), and potassium (267.6 kg ha-1 ), were observed in treatments applying chemical fertilizers at a rate of 100 kg of nitrogen per hectare combined with Azotobacter (T10). This was closely followed by treatment T9, which involved the application of 120 kg of nitrogen per hectare. These results highlight the potential benefits of integrating Azotobacter with chemical fertilizers to enhance soil properties and nutrient availability in wheat cultivation. The study\'s significant contributions lie in its findings that emphasize the potential benefits of integrating Azotobacter with chemical fertilizers to improve soil properties and nutrient availability. This information can guide agricultural practices, helping farmers optimize their nutrient management strategies to enhance crop yields and promote sustainable agriculture in the Rabi season.','Azotobacter, Nitrogen, Phosphorus, Potassium, Soil pH, Bulk density.','From the above it may be concluded that, the application of 100 kg ha-1 + nitrogen in combination with Azotobacter has shown significant positive effects on soil physicochemical properties and nutrient availability. This synergistic approach has improved soil fertility, enhanced nutrient retention, and holds promise for sustainable agricultural practices, contributing to increased crop productivity.','Ahmad, F., Ahmad, I. & Khan, M. (2008). Screening of free-living rhizospheric bacteria for their multiple plant growth-promoting activities. Microbiological Research, 163, 173–181.\r\nArough, Y. K., Sharifi, R. S., Sedghi, M. & Barmaki, M. (2016). Effect of zinc and biofertilizers on antioxidant enzyme activity, chlorophyll content, soluble sugars, and proline in triticale under salinity conditions. Notulae Botanicae Horti Agrobotanici Cluj-Napoca, 44, 116–124.\r\nBanerjee, A., Datta, J. K., Mondal, N. K. & Chanda, T. (2011). Influence of integrated nutrient management on soil properties of old alluvial soil under mustard cropping system. Communications in Soil Science and Plant Analysis, 42(14), 2473–2492.\r\nBlake, G. F. & Hartge, K. H. (1986). Bulk density. In A. Klute (Ed.), Methods of soil analysis. Part 1 (2nd ed., pp. 363-382). American Society of Agronomy.\r\nChand, S., Anwar, M. & Patra, D. D. (2006). Influence of long-term application of organic and inorganic fertilizer to build up soil fertility and nutrient uptake in mint-mustard cropping sequence. Communications in Soil Science and Plant Analysis, 37, 63-76.\r\nEl-Kouny, H. M. (2007). Effect of organic manure and biofertilizers on wheat grown in Lacustrine soil as compared with mineral fertilizers. Egypt. J. Soil Sci., 3, 263-280.\r\nEl-Naggar, M. E., Abdelsalam, N. R., Fouda, M. M. G., Mackled, M. I., Al-Jaddadi, M. A. M., Ali, H. M., Siddiqui, M. H. & Kandil, E. E. (2020). Soil Application of Nano Silica on Maize Yield and Its Insecticidal Activity Against Some Stored Insects After the Post-Harvest. Nanomaterials, 10, 739.\r\nGulaiya, S., Agrawal, S. B., Kochale, P., Vermam V. & Patel, K. K. (2023). Changes in Soil behaviour under with the use of various Sources of Nutrient and Bio-fertilizer in Chickpea (Cicer arietinum L.). Biological Forum – An International Journal, 15(8), 316-319.\r\nHanafy Ahmed, A., Mishriky, J. & Khalil, M. (2002). Reducing nitrate accumulation in lettuce (Lactuca sativa L.) plants by using different biofertilizers. Annals of Agricultural Sciences, 47, 27–42.\r\nJoseph, B., Patra, R. R. & Lawrence, R. (2007). Characterization of plant growth-promoting rhizobacteria associated with chickpea (Cicer arietinum L.). International Journal of Plant Production, 1, 141–152.\r\nKhalil, H. M. A., Afifi, M. M. I., El-Akshar, Y. S. & El-Sayed, G. A. M. (2013). Effect of bio-organic fertilizers on barley plants in saline soil. Journal of Applied Sciences Research, 9(8), 5337-5343.\r\nOlsen, S. R., Cole, C. V., Watanabe, F. S. & Dean, L. A. (1954). Estimation of available phosphorus in soil by extraction with sodium bicarbonate. United States Department of Agriculture, Circular No. 939.\r\nRamalakshmi, A., Iniyakumari, M. & Raj, S. A. (2008). Influence of biofertilizers on soil physico-chemical and biological properties during the cropping period. Asian Journal of Bioscience, 3, 348-351.\r\nRao, S. S. (2003). Nutrient balance and economics of integrated nutrient management in groundnut (Arachis hypogaea L.) mustard (Brassica juncea L.). Madras Agricultural Journal, 90, 465-471.\r\nRazmjooei, Z., Etemadi, M., Eshghi, S., Ramezanian, A., Mirazimi Abarghuei, F. & Alizargar, J. (2022). Potential Role of Foliar Application of Azotobacter on Growth, Nutritional Value, and Quality of Lettuce under Different Nitrogen Levels. Plants, 11, 406.\r\nRueda, D., Valencia, G., Soria, N., Rueda, B. B., Manjunatha, B., Kundapur, R. R. & Selvanayagam, M. (2016). Effect of Azospirillum spp. and Azotobacter spp. on the growth and yield of strawberry (Fragaria vesca) in a hydroponic system under different nitrogen levels. Applied Pharmaceutical Sciences, 6, 48–54.\r\nSolanki, R. L., Mahendra, S., Sharma, S. K., Purohit, H. S. & Arvind, V. (2015). Effect of different levels of phosphorus, sulfur, and PSB on the yield of Indian mustard (Brassica juncea L.) and soil properties and available macronutrients. Scholarly Journal of Agricultural Sciences, 5, 305-310.\r\nStandford, D. & English, L. (1949). Use of flame photometer in rapid soil tests of K and Ca. Agronomy Journal, 4, 446-447.\r\nSubbiah, B. V. & Asija, G. L. (1956). A rapid procedure for estimation of available nitrogen in soils. Current Science, 25, 259-260.\r\nSudhakar, P., Chattopadhyay, G., Gangwar, S. & Ghosh, J. (2000). Effect of foliar application of Azotobacter, Azospirillum, and Beijerinckia on leaf yield and quality of mulberry (Morus alba). Journal of Agricultural Science, 134, 227–234.\r\nWalkley, A. & Black, I. A. (1934). An estimation of degtareff method for determining soil organic matter and a proposed modification of the chromic acid titration method. Soil Science, 37, 29-38.\r\n','Gajraj Yadav, Neeraj Kumar, Kumar Anshuman, Ankit Singh, Sandeep Yadav, Pankaj Singh and Ram Ratan Singh (2023). Nitrogen and Azotobacter\'s Impact on Soil characteristics and Nutrient availability. Biological Forum – An\r\nInternational Journal, 15(10): 103-107.'),(7610,'168','Population Dynamics of Major Sucking Insect Pests of cowpea, Vigna unguiculata Linn. and their Correlation with Weather Parameters','Dharanikota Lalithambica Devi, Shudhanshu Baliyan, Sunil Kumar Mandal and Manoj Kumar','Population-Dynamics-of-Major-Sucking-Insect-Pests-of-cowpea,-Vigna-unguiculata-Linn.-and-their-Correlation-with-Weather-Parameters-Lalithambica-Devi-Dharanikota-21.pdf','',1,'Population dynamics of major sucking insect pests of cowpea experiment was carried out at Vegetable Research Plot of Dr. Rajendra Prasad Central Agricultural University, Pusa, Bihar during summer, 2023. The Aphid, Aphis craccivora Koch, Leaf hopper, Empoasca fabae Harris, Whitefly, Bemesia tabaci, Ginn and Flower thrips, Megalurothrips distalis were noticed during the study. The occurrence of these pests and their relationship with abiotic factors were described. Occurrence of three pests were noticed during 12th Standard Meteorological Week (4th week of March) and reached a peak during 16thStandard Meteorological Week. Whereas, flower thrips, commenced during the 14thStandard Meteorological Week (5th week of March) and maximum population was recorded during 16th Standard Meteorological Week (3rd week of April). The population of aphid, whitefly, leafhopper and flower thrips showed positive and significant correlation with maximum temperature. The correlation coefficient of aphid was positive significant with minimum temperature while the correlation coefficient of remaining were non-significant. They showed negative and significant correlation with relative humidity at morning hours and evening hours. The rainfall showed negative and non-significant correlation with all these sucking insect pests. The contemporary investigation into population dynamics underscores the necessity for comprehensive consideration of location-specific pest constellations in cowpea, with the aim of formulating prophylactic measures for enduring and sustainable management initiatives.','Cowpea, major sucking insect pests, correlation, population dynamics','The incidence of sucking insect pests on cowpea was mostly observed from March to May in summer. The peak population of sucking pests were mostly observed during 3rd week of April. Most of the sucking insect pests showed positive significance with maximum temperature and negative significance with relative humidity and non-significance with rainfall. ','-','Dharanikota Lalithambica Devi, Shudhanshu Baliyan, Sunil Kumar Mandal and Manoj Kumar (2023). Population Dynamics of Major Sucking Insect Pests of cowpea, Vigna unguiculata Linn. and their Correlation with Weather Parameters. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 15(10): 108-111.'),(7611,'168','Assessing Pest Control Strategies for Spodoptera frugiperda in Maize','Ajay Bogati, Srushtideep Angidi and Sai Manogna Adapa ','Assessing-Pest-Control-Strategies-for-Spodoptera-frugiperda-in-Maize-Srushtideep-Angidi-22.pdf','',1,'Maize has become a primary food and feed crop in recent years due to its ability to provide sufficient quantity and quality for human consumption, animal and aquaculture production, and bioenergy production. The insect pest armyworm, Spodoptera frugiperda, has become a worldwide pest, causing tremendous losses to the maize crop. In our study, a resistant maize variety was used to evaluate a variety of conventional and unconventional control measures aimed at reducing armyworm infestations. Our findings demonstrated that chemical treatments such as Delegate and Coragen are highly effective, with Delegate exhibiting a significant dose-dependent response. Surprisingly, dry sand emerged as an environmentally friendly counter measure, reducing pest damage significantly. Our findings highlight the importance of multifaceted strategies that emphasize both effectiveness and sustainability in order to protect maize crops from the relentless fall armyworm.','Spodoptera frugiperda, Maize, Pest Control, Sustainability, Effectiveness','The increasing risk posed by the fall armyworm (Spodoptera frugiperda) to maize crops necessitates immediate and effective intervention strategies. Our evaluation of a range of conventional and unconventional treatments provided valuable insights into their effectiveness against this formidable pest. Conventional chemical insecticides particularly Delegate and Coragen demonstrated significant efficacy in controlling the armyworm, with Delegate\'s effect being dose-dependent. However, there are still concerns about these chemical solutions\' environmental and health effects.\r\nInterestingly, dry sand emerged as a promising environmentally friendly alternative demonstrating the potential of non-chemical pest management interventions. The use of household substances such as Nirma and Harpic, on the other hand raised concerns about plant health and practical applicability, emphasizing the complexities of repurposing such items for agricultural purposes. Although the pesticidal properties of Neem oil are well known, our findings called into question its efficacy as a curative measure, particularly when combined with certain detergents. Given its cost-effectiveness and potency, acephate\'s performance emphasized its potential for large-scale applications, albeit with a cautionary note on understanding its long-term effects.\r\nGiven our findings, it is clear that a comprehensive approach to managing the fall armyworm is required. This strategy should include a combination of chemical, physical, and botanical interventions, with a focus on sustainability, safety, and preserving the integrity of maize crops. The study emphasizes the ongoing need for research in this area, with the goal of protecting our crops and ensuring that our intervention strategies are in accordance with the environment.\r\n','-','Ajay Bogati, Srushtideep Angidi and Sai Manogna Adapa (2023). Assessing Pest Control Strategies for Spodoptera frugiperda in Maize. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 15(10): 112-115.'),(7612,'168','Effect of Rumen-Protected Methionine and Lysine Supplementation on Growth Performance of Crossbred Female Calves','Metiya A.K., Vahora S.G., Wadhwani K.N., Shekh M.A. and Chauhan U.K. ','Effect-of-Rumen-Protected-Methionine-and-Lysine-Supplementation-on-Growth-Performance-of-Crossbred-Female-Calves-Metiya-AK-23.pdf','',1,'The current study intends to evaluate the effect of rumen-protected methionine (RPM) and lysine (RPL) supplementation on the growth performance of crossbred (HF×Kankrej) female calves. For this study, twelve crossbred female calves were randomly allotted to two groups T1 and T2 based on their body weight for the period of 98 days. Calves in the T1 group were fed basal TMR to meet the nutrient requirement as per ICAR (2013) standard and those in T2 were fed basal TMR same as T1 + 2 g/kg DM RPM and 6 g/kg DM RPL. The average biweekly and daily body weight gain was significantly (p<0.05) higher in the T2 compared to the T1 group. However, the total body weight gain was not affected between treatments. The DMI, CPI, DCPI and TDNI did not differ significantly between groups. The dietary treatments did not differ significantly with respect to feed conversion ratio (kg/kg gain). The cost of feeding (Rs/head/98d) was significantly higher in the T2 group than the T1 due to the higher cost of RPM and RPL. However, the cost of feeding (Rs/kg gain) did not exhibit any significant difference between groups. The results of the present study indicate the importance of supplementing RPM and RPL to the basal diet which results in improvement in growth performance without affecting the cost of feeding. ','Rumen protected methionine and Rumen protected lysine, Growth performance, Crossbred female calves','From the results obtained under the present study, it is concluded that the body weight gain (kg) was higher in crossbred female calves fed with standard protein basal diet supplementation with 2 g/kg DMrumen-protected methionine and 6 g/kg DM lysine without affecting feed intake and cost of feeding (Rs/kg gain).','-','Metiya A.K., Vahora S.G., Wadhwani K.N., Shekh M.A. and Chauhan U.K. (2023). Effect of Rumen-Protected Methionine and Lysine Supplementation on Growth Performance of Crossbred Female Calves. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 15(10): 116-119.'),(7613,'146','Efficacy of Trichoderma hamatum, Rhizobium and validamycin 3%L against Soil Borne Diseases of Green Gram','Adyasha Das and Shyama Sundar Mahapatra ','Efficacy-of-Trichoderma-hamatum-Rhizobium-and-validamycin-3L-against-Soil-Borne-Diseases-of-Green-Gram-Adyasha-Das-246.pdf','',1,'Use of biocontrol agents against soil borne pathogens is gaining importance in the present situation for eco-friendly management of diseases. Fusarium oxysporum and sclerotium rolfsii are the major yield limiting factors of green gram. For eco-friendly management of diseases caused by these, bio-agents and plant protectant were evaluated against the soil borne diseases in pot culture experiment. The combination enhanced the plant growth parameters and decreased the percent disease incidence. The Treatment with seed treatment and soil application of Trichoderma hamatum enriched vermicompost, Rhizobium and Validamycin 3% L showed good result in case of F. oxysporum with higher no. of pods (11.0), no. of grains (11.0), 1000 grain weight (41.73g), leaf no. (9.66), shoot length (48.61cm), root length (23.65cm), dry matter (11.86g), chlorophyll content (3.20mg) and lowest disease incidence (5.30%). In case of S. rolfsii the same treatment was also found to be best with highest no. of pods (10.83), no. of grains (10.67), 1000 grain weight (41.79g), leaf no. (9.50), shoot length (48.37cm), root length (23.62cm), dry matter (11.85g), chlorophyll content (3.16 mg) and lowest disease incidence (5.65%). Soil application of bio agents enriched with vermicompost showed additive effect over the seed treatments.','Trichoderma hamatum, Rhizobium sp., Sclerotium rolfsii, Fusarium oxysporum, Validamycin 3% L','Integrated application of Trichoderma hamatum enriched vermicompost, Rhizobium and Validamycin 3%L has maximised the yield attributing characters@7, 14, 21 and 21 DAS. Synthetic fertilisers and pesticides have greatly increased crop yield, but their widespread usage has resulted in environmental issues such as soil salinity, pathogen resistance and other issues. Green technology, particularly microbial applications, may provide superior alternatives to chemicals. In comparison to chemical pesticides, the popularisation of biopesticides has been extremely sluggish. At the end it may be concluded that the application of Trichoderma can be considered as a safer way for managing diseases which modifies the morphological characters of the plant to adapt to the situation.','-','Adyasha Das and Shyama Sundar Mahapatra (2022). Efficacy of Trichoderma hamatum, Rhizobium and validamycin 3%L against soil borne diseases of green gram. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 14(4): 1381-1384.'),(7614,'165','Effect of different Dates of Sowing, Irrigation Scheduling and Soil Amendments on Yield Attributes and Yield of Wheat','CH V L Kishore, Sharad Pandey, Maneesh Bhatt, Mamta and BKM Patro ','Effect-of-different-Dates-of-Sowing-Irrigation-Scheduling-and-Soil-Amendments-on-Yield-Attributes-and-Yield-of-Wheat-CH-VL-Kishore-178.pdf','',1,'A two-year field experiments were conducted during the rabi season of 2020–21 and 2021–22 at the Agriculture Farm, Himgiri Zee University, P.O. Sherpur, Chakrata Rd. Dehradun, Uttarakhand, to study theeffect of different dates of sowing, irrigation scheduling, and soil amendments on the yield attributes and yield of wheat (Triticum aestivum L.). The study consists of three irrigation schedulings: viz., I1 (irrigation at 40% depletion from ASM), I2 (irrigation at 50% depletion from ASM), and I3 (irrigation at growth stages) in the main plots, while the three soil amendments S1 (FYM @ 10 t ha-1), S2 (urban compost @ 5 t ha-1), and S3 (vermicompost @ 5 t ha-1) are in the sub-plots with two dates of sowing, viz., D1 (timely sown) and D2 (late sown) in the sub-sub plot with three replications. Among the different dates of sowing, irrigation scheduling and soil amendment application, of D1(timely sown), I1 (irrigation at 40% depletion from ASM), and S3 (vermicompost @ 5 t ha-1) showed the maximum yield attributes of wheat viz spike weight, number of spikelets per spike, number of grains per spike and test weight were observed during both years of the experiment (2020-21 and 2021-22), respectively.\r\nTimely sowing of wheat crop I1 (irrigation at 40% depletion from ASM), and S3 (vermicompost @ 5 t ha-1) showed the maximum yield observation, viz., grain yield, biological yield, and harvest index were observed during both years of the experiment (2020-21 and 2021-22), respectively. Thus, it can be concluded that a timely sown wheat crop, along with 40% depletion of available soil moisture and vermicompost @ 5 t ha-1 showed the best agronomic practices and resulted in the highest grain yield and economic return under sandy loam soil conditions at Himgiri Zee University.\r\n','Different dates of sowing, irrigation scheduling, and soil amendments','From the above results, it can be concluded that irrigation applied at 40% DASM (Depletion from Available Soil Moisture) provided optimal conditions for wheat under timely sowing conditions. In addition to this, the application of vermicompost at a rate of 5 t ha-1 improved soil fertility by adding more nutrients to the soil, leading to better results compared to the other treatment combinations.','-','CH V L Kishore, Sharad Pandey, Maneesh Bhatt, Mamta and BKM Patro (2023). Effect of different Dates of Sowing, Irrigation Scheduling and Soil Amendments on Yield Attributes and Yield of Wheat. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 15(9): 1041-1045.'),(7615,'165','Characterization, Applications, and Industrial Potential of Bacterial Laccases: A Comprehensive Study','Maninder Singh, Reena Singh and Chirag Chopra','Characterization-Applications-and-Industrial-Potential-of-Bacterial-Laccases-A-Comprehensive-Study-179.pdf','',1,'Laccases, a type of copper oxidase belongs to the family of 1,4-benzenediol. Laccase, a glycoprotein, is found ubiquitously in various organisms ranging from fungi to larger plants. Over the last several decades, there has been an amazing increase in the application and consumption of bacterial laccases across a variety of sectors. Bacterial laccases offer several distinct advantages over fungal laccases from an industrial perspective. They have a variety of temperatures and pH tolerance ranges while staying extremely stable even in the presence of many hazardous chemicals. Laccases\' cellular position in bacteria varies by species; most naturally produced laccases in bacteria, including Bacillus subtilis as well as Sinorhizobium meliloti, occur intracellularly, whereas a few, such as laccases from certain bacilli and actinomycetes, exist extracellularly. Laccase has evolved into an important commercially essential enzyme with a wide range of applications, including lignocellulosic material delignification, biomedical and pharmaceutical applications, waste detoxification, and textile dye decolorization. Bacterial laccases present several challenges, including the diversity of laccases, lack of standardization in characterization methods, difficulties in strain identification and isolation, optimization of production, and protein engineering. Scaling up for industrial applications, substrate specificity, stability, and regulatory considerations are also hurdles. The current study gives an in-depth look at laccase-producing bacteria, encompassing detailed information on enzyme properties, gene characterization, cloning techniques, and industrial applications.','Flowering traits variation, heritability, genetic advance, multivariate cluster analysis','Finally, the current study includes thorough information on the occurrence, molecular cloning, structural features of various bacterial laccases, as well as uses with laccase industrial production. Laccase enhancement strategies include genetic modification and cloning in appropriate heterologous hosts for enzyme excessive production. Laccase enzyme may function on a number of substrates, purify a range of pollutants, and oxidize dangerous substances, making it useful in the paper production, Fiber production, pulp as well as in textile industries, among others. Usage of cheap resources for laccase manufacture has recently been examined. A novel concept in the manufacturing sector wastewater handling in this context is harnessing its nutritive ability to manufacture laccase. Aside from solid trash, drainage from the agriculture and food processing sector is of especially significant importance. Second, laccase is essential for the breakdown of wide range of pollutants and phenols. Major problem with this enzyme is due to its limited specificity for substrates and can potentially catalyse a wide variety of reactions. As a result, more research regarding this topic is extremely important. In addition, despite several attempts to find out the function of laccases in lignocellulose transformation, the subject is still undetermined concerning the role of laccases in lignin decomposition in plant biomass, it can be utilized as an enzymatic treatment method for cellulosic production of ethanol. In the future, researchers should pay greater attention to these issues. As a result, it will not be surprising that such an enzyme is being thoroughly explored and is going to continue to do so in the future.','-','Maninder Singh, Reena Singh and Chirag Chopra (2023). Characterization, Applications, and Industrial Potential of Bacterial Laccases: A Comprehensive Study. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 15(9): 1046-1051.'),(7616,'146','Efficacy of Coloured Shade Nets and Nutrients on Vegetative Growth and Development of Indoor and vertical Garden Plant Chlorophytum laxum in Rainy Season','Sadhana Swastika, Sashikala Beura, Manas Ranjan Nath, Anupama Baliarsingh and Pragnya Paramita Mishra','Efficacy-of-Coloured-Shade-Nets-and-Nutrients-on-Vegetative-Growth-and-Development-of-Indoor-and-vertical-Garden-Plant-Chlorophytum-laxum-in-Rainy-Season-Sashikala-Beura-247.pdf','',1,'An experiment was carried out at Department of Floriculture in the College of Agriculture, OUAT, Bhubaneswar. This experiment’s objective was to investigate the effectiveness of coloured shade nets (green and white) with shading intensity of 50 %, control (no shade net) and nutrients i.e., NPK 19:19:19 @ 1% and 2% on vegetative growth and development of indoor and vertical garden Chlorophytum laxum. This plant’s performance was researched for 1 year. Vegetative parameters like plant height, plant spread (E-W), plant spread (N-S), leaf thickness, leaf area, chlorophyll content, number of stolons per plant and no. of leaves per plant were recorded superior under green shade net with foliar application of NPK 19:19:19 @ 1% followed by white shade net. Green shade net found to be best in improving plant growth and hence they can be used commercially for improved growth of spider plant.','Coloured shade nets, shading intensity, nutrients, Chlorophytum laxum, vegetative parameters, spider plant','The present investigation has led to certain important points to be stated as valid conclusions for Chlorophytum laxum as it performed best in all vegetative parameters in green shade net with the application of NPK 19:9:19 @ 1 % during rainy season. Colored shade netting is a relatively a new tool that can be used for a wide variety of purposes by floriculturists and landscape designer for beautification and amelioration of the indoor environment. The results will pave the path of the entrepreneurs, researchers and students as well.','-','Sadhana Swastika, Sashikala Beura, Manas Ranjan Nath, Anupama Baliarsingh and Pragnya Paramita Mishra (2022). Efficacy of Coloured Shade Nets and Nutrients on Vegetative Growth and Development of Indoor and vertical Garden Plant Chlorophytum laxum in Rainy Season. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 14(4): 1385-1388.');
INSERT INTO `pdf_upload` VALUES (7617,'168','Utilization of Micropropagation and Mutation Breeding in stevia Improvement so far-A Critical Review','Tabassum, Jaspreet Kaur Basati, Parbhjot Kaur and Gurdeep Singh','Utilization-of-Micropropagation-and-Mutation-Breeding-in-stevia-Improvement-so-far-A-Critical-Review-Tabassum-25.pdf','',4,'Stevia is a perennial herb, widely used as a non-toxic and non-caloricnatural sweetener in many countries around the world as the stevioside extract from the leaves taste 300 times sweeter than cane sugar. The seeds are smaller in size and the germination percentage is very low with a significant problem of low fertility which is primarily a constraint of self-incompatibility. Propagation by seeds does not allow the production of homogeneous populations and generate variability among individuals of a population in important features like sweetening levels and composition. Propagation by seeds does not allow the production of homogeneous populations which generate variability among individuals of a population in important features like sweetening levels and composition. Vegetative propagation is also limiting by the fact that a limited number of plants can be generated from a single plant, therefore is a limiting factor for rapid multiplication. Due to these difficulties, tissue culture is an important alternative for rapid multiplication of stevia plants for enhanced production and along with mutation breeding to develop a new variety with improved characters. Modern techniques such as molecular markers, HPLC can also be explored to speed up breeding programme for higher yield and glycoside content. This review article enlightens use of mutation breeding and tissue culture for stevia improvement so far in order to focus on it as an effective breeding strategy in case of this crop.','Stevia, Mutation Breeding, Micro-propagation, Natural non-caloric sweetener.','Stevia rebaudiana shows immense potential as an agricultural crop for the development of a high potency sweetener. The steviol glycosides, particularly rebaudioside A, extracted from the leaves of stevia has received great attention as a sugar substitute due to its most desirable sweetness and non-caloric nature. Safety studies conducted indicated the absence of any negative side effects so far after its consumption. High purity stevia extracts are approved for use as a sweetener worldwide. As stevia is self-incompatible with small seed size which showed reduced germination, therefore, development of new stevia genotypes with improved features is more suitable by mutation breeding using both physical and chemical mutagens. This has opened up the way for the development of a new stevia variety enriched with higher SGs, Reb-A which are suitable for more localized cultivation.','-','Tabassum, Jaspreet Kaur Basati, Parbhjot Kaur and Gurdeep Singh (2023). Utilization of Micropropagation and Mutation Breeding in stevia Improvement so far-A Critical Review. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 15(10): 125-131.'),(7618,'168','Characterization of Different Stock (Matthiola incana L.) Genotypes for Growth, Flowering and Yield Traits under the Hill Zone of Karnataka','Sanketh M.R., Hemla Naik B., Chandrashekar S.Y., Kantharaj Y. and Ganapathi M. ','Characterization-of-Different-Stock-(Matthiola-incana-L.)-Genotypes-for-Growth,-Flowering-and-Yield-Traits-under-the-Hill-Zone-of-Karnataka-Hemla-Naik-B-26.pdf','',4,'Stock (Matthiola incana L.) is a magnificent cut flower which is being grown only in a few parts of the temperate countries. So, this investigation aims to introduce this cut flower crop to the hill zone of Karnataka, India. The performances of 11 distinct stock genotypes were studied using a Randomized Block Design with three replications. The study revealed that plant height (72.00 cm), internodal length (2.99 cm), stalk length (93.93 cm), number of florets per stalk (32.07) and vase life (13.47 days) were recorded as the maximum in genotype Stock Katz Blue. Stock Katz Ruby recorded the maximum number of leaves (70.73), leaf area (3,199.94 cm2/plant), longevity in the plant (36.61 days) and the minimum number of days taken for stalk emergence and harvest (43.60 and 74.40, respectively). The maximum leaf length (18.55 cm) and plant spread (39.00 cm in E-W and 38.94 cm in N-S) were recorded in Stock Katz Purple. Stalk girth (10.40 mm), floret diameter (4.22 cm) and the number of cut flowers per m2 (25.00) were showed the highest for Arrow White. Based on these findings the Stock Katz Blue was found to be superior with quality parameters, the genotype Stock Katz Ruby was found to be the most suitable for earliness and maximum longevity in the plant while, the genotype Arrow White was found the best for marketable flower yield.','Brassicaceae, Characterization, Cut flower, Genotype and Stock','Results of the experiment clearly confirmed that the genotype Stock Katz Blue followed by Stock Katz Ruby, Stock Katz Purple and Early Iron Pink were found to be superior with regard to most morphological, flowering and quality traits while, Arrow White followed by Early Iron Deep Yellow were found to be superior with regard to the yield parameters. From this, we can recommend that these genotypes can be utilized for commercial production and crop improvement for quality and yield traits.\r\nSince, the genotypes viz., Stock Katz Ruby and Stock Katz Blue have better quality and longevity in plants, these genotypes can be suggested for bedding and pot planting.\r\n','-','Sanketh M.R., Hemla Naik B., Chandrashekar S.Y., Kantharaj Y. and Ganapathi M. (2023). Characterization of Different Stock (Matthiola incana L.) Genotypes for Growth, Flowering and Yield Traits under the Hill Zone of Karnataka. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 15(10): 132-136.'),(7619,'165','Seasonal Incidence of Sucking Insect-Pests of Soybean [Glycine max (L.) Merrill]','Devesh Parmar, H. R. Chaudhary, B. K. Patidar, H.P. Meghwal and M.S. Meena','Seasonal-Incidence-of-Sucking-Insect-Pests-of-Soybean-[Glycine-max-(L.)-Merrill]-Devesh-Parmar-180.pdf','',1,'The present investigation on “Seasonal Incidence of Sucking Insect-Pests of Soybean [Glycine max (L.) Merrill]” was conducted during kharif, 2019 at Agricultural Research Station, Ummedganj, Agriculture University, Kota. The results revealed that among the sap feeding insects whitefly and jassid were reported on the crop almost all cropping period. Maximum infestation of whitefly (7.8/3 trifoliate leaf) observed in first week of September, whereas maximum number of jassid (2.8/3 trifoliate leaf) was recorded in third week of September. The correlation study reveals that the whitefly and jassid population showed significantly negative correlated with rainfall. Among all the pests. sucking pests have recently got more attention due to its widely destructive nature by acting as a vector of some virus diseases in soybean, such as yellow mosaic virus dissemination by Bemisia tabaci.','Seasonal, incidence, jassid, whitefly, correlation, peak, infestation','Study of population dynamics of insect pests is one of the most important objective of pest management. Population dynamics provides the data of seasonal fluctuation and peek activity of insect pests. Correlation study of insect pests with pest’s population also provides information about weather influence on insect pest population. The information collected in this study is useful in insect pest management.','-','Devesh Parmar, H. R. Chaudhary, B. K. Patidar, H.P. Meghwal and M.S. Meena (2023). Seasonal Incidence of Sucking Insect-Pests of Soybean [Glycine max (L.) Merrill]. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 15(9): 1052-1054.'),(7620,'168','To Test the Residual Toxicity of the Selective Nicotinic Receptor Antagonist- Spinosad on the Callosobruchus chinensis L. pulse Beetle (Coleoptera: Chrysomelidae) in a Lab Setting','A.N. Warghat, A.R. Tayde and S.S. Munje ','To-Test-the-Residual-Toxicity-of-the-Selective-Nicotinic-Receptor-Antagonist--Spinosad-on-the-Callosobruchus-chinensis-L.-pulse-Beetle-(Coleoptera-Chrysomelidae)-in-a-Lab-Setting-AN-Warghat-27.pdf','',4,'The study was conducted in the Department of Entomology lab at the AICRP (Soybean)- RRC, Amravati Dr. P.D.K.V., Akola (Maharashtra State), Regional Research Centre for (Soybean) in Akola between 2020 and 2021. The study\'s findings, To Test the Residual Toxicity of the Selective Nicotinic Receptor antagonist-Spinosad on the Callosobruchus chinensis L. pulse beetle (Coleoptera: Chrysomelidae) in a Lab Setting, were well-detailed, and it was evident that the study of rearing insects of the pulse beetle, Callosobruchus chinensis L. The goal of the laboratory tests was to create a homogeneous population. From there, Spinosad 45% SC relative toxicity against the pulse beetle, C. chinensis, was assessed based on the percentage of adult mortality of resistant species classified as Susceptible (S5) and Resistant Population (R1) and count the probit analysis of Susceptible (S6) and Resistant Population (R2). The bioassay, which was carried out using the impregnated filter paper method with five concentrations of each of the four treatments, including the control, and reproduced three times with Spinosad 45% SC, revealed that the higher concentrations of Spinosad had greater toxicity than the lower doses and Mortality percentage was noticed right away at 24 HAT in a 30 ppm concentration, where the average mortality was (8.33%), followed by the next treatment at 50 ppm, which was (10.00%), followed by 70 ppm, which showed that (13.33%), next to 90 ppm, which showed (15.00%), next to 150 ppm, which showed (16.67%) mortality, respectively. The average mortality was 8.33% at 48 HAT in a 30 ppm concentration, followed by 50 ppm treatment, or (11.67%), then 70 ppm revealed that (15.00%), then 90 ppm showed (18.33%), and finally 150 ppm showed (21.67%). Mortality was discovered to be 1.67 times higher than the water spray control. The average mortality at 72 HAT 30 ppm concentration was (35.00%), followed by the next treatment at 50 ppm, which was (38.33%), then 70 ppm showed that (45.00%), then 90 ppm showed (50.00%), and finally 150 ppm showed (53.33%), respectively. Mortality was also found when compared to the control (water spray), which was (8.33) found least frequently. The Probit analysis of the mortality % and extract concentration at 24, 48, and 72 hours after treatment revealed a linear connection when probit regression lines of the Spinosad resistant (S6) and (R2) populations were generated. According to the analysis, the regression line equations for (T5) 150 ppm were Y = 0.773x + 3.219 24 hours after treatment. The tested pesticides\' computed X2 values were lower than the table value (0.951), indicating that the adult population was homogenous. The regression line equations were computed as Y= 0.979x + 2.067 for (T5) 150 ppm at 48 hours post-treatment. The tested pesticides computed X2 values were lower than the table value (0.951), indicating that the adult population was homogenous. The regression line equations for (T5) 150 ppm at 72 HAT were derived as Y= 0.773x + 3.221. The tested pesticides\' computed X2 values were lower than the table value (0.951), indicating that the adult population was homogenous. This study suggests that eco-friendly management can help break down pest resistance in food grains, allowing them to be stored for longer periods without contamination.','Resistant species, population, stored grain pest, probit analysis, residual toxicity, Spinosad, Agro chemical','-','-','A.N. Warghat, A.R. Tayde and S.S. Munje (2023). To Test the Residual Toxicity of the Selective Nicotinic Receptor Antagonist- Spinosad on the Callosobruchus chinensis L. pulse Beetle (Coleoptera: Chrysomelidae) in a Lab Setting. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 15(10): 137-142.'),(7621,'168','Assessing Variability of Silicon in Relation to Soil Texture using Box Plot in Rice Growing Soils of Jammu Plains','Seema Pooniyan, Sarabdeep Kour, Tushar, Meenakshi Gupta and Rameshwar Gora ','Assessing-Variability-of-Silicon-in-Relation-to-Soil-Texture-using-Box-Plot-in-Rice-Growing-Soils-of-Jammu-Plains-Sarabdeep-Kour-28.pdf','',4,'Rice is among the most important food and grain crop in India but it suffers from many insect and pest infestations. Silicon (Si) is beneficial element for silicophilic plant species viz., rice and sugarcane. Rice takes more Si compared to any other primary nutrients from soil. The content of silica in plants is equivalent to or sometimes more than the major nutrients i.e. N, P and K supplied through fertilizers. However, there are differences in the parent materials which affect the mineral composition and particle size distribution of the soils which in turn effect the available Si content. In the present study, we investigated the variability between the amount of available Si in rice growing soils of three different districts of Jammu plains with respect to particle size distribution or soil texture. This analysis of the variability of silicon is important for assessing crop production under different soil textural classes. The study aimed to investigate the variability of silicon using a box plot. A total of 140 surface (0-15 cm) soil samples, collected from three different districts from rice-growing soils of Jammu plains were taken for investigation. The region had an interquartile range (IQR) of Si-1, Si-2 and Si-3, which is 173.78 (g kg-1), 241.80 (g kg-1) and 287.33 (g kg-1), respectively. The maximum variability distribution of silicon was found in sandy clay loam soil followed by sandy loam soils and the lowest distribution was observed in sandy clay texture under all the three extractants. The kurtosis distribution of available Si-1 was found to be positive and that of Si-2 and Si-3 was found to be negative. The skewness distribution in Si-1, Si-2 and Si-3 was found to be positive. But the kurtosis distribution of Si-1 of soil is positive (0.07) and negative kurtosis distribution was found (-0.48 and -0.57) for Si-2 and Si-3 of soil, respectively. The evaluation of silicon (available) distribution in Jammu, this can lead to make advanced plans for making better package and practices for Jammu valley area.','Silicon, rice, soil texture, variability, Jammu plains','The distribution of available Si content was related to soil texture in rice growing soils of Jammu plains and maximum distribution was noticed in sandy clay loam soil for all the three extractants followed by sandy loam soils and minimum distribution was seen under sandy clay texture. Negative correlation was found between the amounts of the coarse-sand fraction and the amounts of available Si extracted with three extractants in the soil using whole soil samples whereas silt and clay fraction of soil showed positive correlation with Si-1, Si-2 and Si-3 content of soil. ','-','Seema Pooniyan, Sarabdeep Kour, Tushar, Meenakshi Gupta and Rameshwar Gora (2023). Assessing Variability of Silicon in Relation to Soil Texture using Box Plot in Rice Growing Soils of Jammu Plains. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 15(10): 143-147.'),(7622,'165','Biofortification with Micro-nutrients on Growth Parameters and Seed Yield on Linseed (Linum usitatissimum L)','Nandini Thondepu and Bineeta Michael Bara','Biofortification with Micro-nutrients on Growth Parameters and Seed Yield on Linseed (Linum usitatissimum L)-Nandini Thondepu-181.pdf','',1,'A field experiment was conducted at the Field Experimentation and Farm Research Centre Department of Genetics and Plant Breeding, during the Rabi season (2022-2023) at Sam Higginbottom University of Agriculture, Technology and Sciences, Prayagraj (U.P.). To evaluate the “Biofortification with micronutrients on growth parameters and seed yield on linseed (Linum usitatissimum L)”. Replicated thrice the experiment was laid out in Randomized Block Design (RBD) with 12 +1 treatments viz., T0: absolute control, T1: Zinc sulphate@ 1%, T2: Zinc sulphate @ 2%, T3: Zinc sulphate @ 3%, T4: Zinc sulphate @ 4%, T5: Boran @ 1%, T6: Boran @ 2%, T7: Boran @ 3%, T8: Boran @ 4%, T9: Ferrous sulphate @ 1%, T10: Ferrous sulphate @ 2%, T11: Ferrous sulphate @ 3%, T12: Ferrous sulphate @ 4% duration for all treatment is 3 hrs. The results showed that methods of micronutrient application through seed priming along with T1: Zinc sulphate@ 1% treatment T1 proved its superiority over the rest of the treatments on growth and seed yield parameter characters. The results revealed that treatment T1: Zinc sulphate@1% for 3 hrs seed application with recorded maximum germination percentage, Plant height(cm) at 90 DAS, Days to 50 per cent flowering, Days to Maturity, and Number of capsules per plant, Number of seeds per capsules as well as noticed capsule per seed, Seed yield/plant(g), Biological yield of linseed. Further, results indicated that 1000 seed weight (g) was significantly improved with the application of treatment T1. The lowest values related to all parameters were obtained in the control plot treatment.','Linseed, Biofortification with micronutrient treatment, Randomized Block Design, zinc sulphate','Seed biofortification like Boron (B), iron (Fe) and zinc (Zn) for the enhancement of linseed yield along with the distribution of different plant parts. Quantitative enhancement in different traits of linseed plants due to B, Fe and Zn fertilization especially for capsules per plant after maturity suggested a positive association between nutrient supply and morphological traits, which indirectly enhanced seed yield. There was a positive correlation between Zn supply and seed yield. In the treatments with B and Fe fertilization, seed yield was positively correlated to plant height, capsules per plant and seeds per five capsules. According to this study, it is concluded that linseed can accumulate majorly Zn followed by Fe and B. The results revealed that treatment T1: Zinc sulphate @ 1% for 12 hrs seed application with recorded maximum Plant height (cm) at 90DAS (88.6 cm), Days to 50 % flowering (68.33 %), Days to Maturity (113.3), and Number of capsules per plant (26.40), Number of seeds per capsule (9.40) as well as capsule seed yield/plant (g) (3.98), Biological yield(g) (7.77 g) of linseed. Further, results indicated that 1000 seed weight (g) (9.30) and then followed by T3- Zinc sulphate (3%).\r\nOutlook: Zinc sulfate, boron, and iron sulfate are essential micronutrients that play crucial roles in plant growth, development, and overall yield. Each nutrient has specific functions that contribute to various physiological processes within plants. Balanced and adequate supply of these micronutrients is essential to ensure optimal plant growth, health, and yield. Deficiencies or excesses of these micronutrients can lead to various physiological disorders, impacting the overall productivity and quality of crops. Farmers often use fertilizers containing these micronutrients to supplement the soil and ensure plants have access to the necessary amounts for their growth and development.\r\n','-','Nandini Thondepu and Bineeta Michael Bara (2023). Biofortification with Micro-nutrients on Growth Parameters and Seed Yield on Linseed (Linum usitatissimum L). Biological Forum – An International Journal, 15(9): 1055-1059.'),(7623,'168','Impact of Fertigation Scheduling on Physiological and Root Attributes of Cotton under High Density Planting System','Stesi S., Raju M., Pazhanivelan S., Ragunath K.P. and Selvakumar S. ','Impact-of-Fertigation-Scheduling-on-Physiological-and-Root-Attributes-of-Cotton-under-High-Density-Planting-System-6827-Stesi-S-24.pdf','',1,'Field experiments were carried out at Eastern Block Farm, Centre for Water and Geospatial Studies, Tamil Nadu Agricultural University, Coimbatore during the winter and summer seasons (2022 - 2023) to evolve the optimum fertigation scheduling in high density cotton through Crop Growth Curve Nutrition Approach (CGCNA). The experiments were laid out in RBD and replicated thrice. The treatments comprises of different combination of NPK fertilizers levels (75% RDF, 100% RDF, 125% RDF) that are being supplied through fertigation in a definite ratio at the peak growth stages viz., seedling stage (10 % NPK), vegetative stage (20 % NPK), square formation (30 % NPK), 50 % flowering (20 %NPK), boll formation and boll development stages ((10% NPK) and its comparative study with drip and conventional irrigation practice with STCR based recommendations of fertilizer NPK and 100 % RDF NPK as soil application in the same split ratios (i.e., seedling stage (10 % NPK), vegetative stage (20 % NPK), square formation (30 % NPK), 50 % flowering (20 % NPK), boll formation and boll development stages (10% NPK)) to cotton planted under HDPS. The physiological attributes like leaf area index, crop growth rate and root attributes like root length, root dry weight and root volume were significantly influenced by the combination of different levels of fertilizer NPK, which were scheduled at the peak growth stages. Among the treatments the maximum leaf area index, crop growth rate and significantly highest values of root length, root dry weight and root volume were recorded with the fertigation of 125 % K with 100 % of N & P during both the seasons of study.','Drip fertigation, STCR, HDPS, conventional irrigation, RDF, NPK','The results of the experiment revealed that the application of enhanced dose of fertilizers and fertigation scheduling at the peak growth stages in split ratios had a significant influence over the physiological and root attributes of cotton under HDPS during both winter and summer seasons of 2022-2023. Based on the research outcome, the fertigation of 125 % K with 100 % N and P (T9) though drip fertigation at the peak growth stages in splits ratios recorded maximum leaf area index (0.98, 2.95, 5.86, 5.94 , 2.83 and 0.97, 2.87, 5.25, 5.48, 2.62), crop growth rate (5.05, 9.87, 15.52, 0.97 g-1m-2 day-1 and 0.97, 4.83, 8.75, 15.35, 0.89 g-1m-2 day-1) and root attributes (39.9cm, 25.4g, 89.2cc and 38.4cm, 23.3g, 86.5cc) and the direct soil application of STCR based recommendation of fertilizers (T12) and 100 % RDF NPK (T13) were the where the conventional irrigation was practiced was found to be inferior as compared to the fertigation treatments during both the seasons of study.','-','Stesi S., Raju M., Pazhanivelan S., Ragunath K.P. and Selvakumar S. (2023). Impact of Fertigation Scheduling on Physiological and Root Attributes of Cotton under High Density Planting System. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 15(10): 120-124.'),(7624,'168','Utilization of Micropropagation and Mutation Breeding in stevia Improvement so far-A Critical Review','Tabassum, Jaspreet Kaur Basati, Parbhjot Kaur and Gurdeep Singh','Utilization-of-Micropropagation-and-Mutation-Breeding-in-stevia-Improvement-so-far-A-Critical-Review-Tabassum-25.pdf','',1,'Stevia is a perennial herb, widely used as a non-toxic and non-caloricnatural sweetener in many countries around the world as the stevioside extract from the leaves taste 300 times sweeter than cane sugar. The seeds are smaller in size and the germination percentage is very low with a significant problem of low fertility which is primarily a constraint of self-incompatibility. Propagation by seeds does not allow the production of homogeneous populations and generate variability among individuals of a population in important features like sweetening levels and composition. Propagation by seeds does not allow the production of homogeneous populations which generate variability among individuals of a population in important features like sweetening levels and composition. Vegetative propagation is also limiting by the fact that a limited number of plants can be generated from a single plant, therefore is a limiting factor for rapid multiplication. Due to these difficulties, tissue culture is an important alternative for rapid multiplication of stevia plants for enhanced production and along with mutation breeding to develop a new variety with improved characters. Modern techniques such as molecular markers, HPLC can also be explored to speed up breeding programme for higher yield and glycoside content. This review article enlightens use of mutation breeding and tissue culture for stevia improvement so far in order to focus on it as an effective breeding strategy in case of this crop.','Stevia, Mutation Breeding, Micro-propagation, Natural non-caloric sweetener','Stevia rebaudiana shows immense potential as an agricultural crop for the development of a high potency sweetener. The steviol glycosides, particularly rebaudioside A, extracted from the leaves of stevia has received great attention as a sugar substitute due to its most desirable sweetness and non-caloric nature. Safety studies conducted indicated the absence of any negative side effects so far after its consumption. High purity stevia extracts are approved for use as a sweetener worldwide. As stevia is self-incompatible with small seed size which showed reduced germination, therefore, development of new stevia genotypes with improved features is more suitable by mutation breeding using both physical and chemical mutagens. This has opened up the way for the development of a new stevia variety enriched with higher SGs, Reb-A which are suitable for more localized cultivation.','-','Tabassum, Jaspreet Kaur Basati, Parbhjot Kaur and Gurdeep Singh (2023). Utilization of Micropropagation and Mutation Breeding in stevia Improvement so far-A Critical Review. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 15(10): 125-131.'),(7625,'168','Characterization of Different Stock (Matthiola incana L.) Genotypes for Growth, Flowering and Yield Traits under the Hill Zone of Karnataka','Sanketh M.R., Hemla Naik B., Chandrashekar S.Y., Kantharaj Y. and Ganapathi M. ','Characterization-of-Different-Stock-(Matthiola-incana-L.)-Genotypes-for-Growth,-Flowering-and-Yield-Traits-under-the-Hill-Zone-of-Karnataka-Hemla-Naik-B-26.pdf','',1,'Stock (Matthiola incana L.) is a magnificent cut flower which is being grown only in a few parts of the temperate countries. So, this investigation aims to introduce this cut flower crop to the hill zone of Karnataka, India. The performances of 11 distinct stock genotypes were studied using a Randomized Block Design with three replications. The study revealed that plant height (72.00 cm), internodal length (2.99 cm), stalk length (93.93 cm), number of florets per stalk (32.07) and vase life (13.47 days) were recorded as the maximum in genotype Stock Katz Blue. Stock Katz Ruby recorded the maximum number of leaves (70.73), leaf area (3,199.94 cm2/plant), longevity in the plant (36.61 days) and the minimum number of days taken for stalk emergence and harvest (43.60 and 74.40, respectively). The maximum leaf length (18.55 cm) and plant spread (39.00 cm in E-W and 38.94 cm in N-S) were recorded in Stock Katz Purple. Stalk girth (10.40 mm), floret diameter (4.22 cm) and the number of cut flowers per m2 (25.00) were showed the highest for Arrow White. Based on these findings the Stock Katz Blue was found to be superior with quality parameters, the genotype Stock Katz Ruby was found to be the most suitable for earliness and maximum longevity in the plant while, the genotype Arrow White was found the best for marketable flower yield.','Brassicaceae, Characterization, Cut flower, Genotype and Stock','Results of the experiment clearly confirmed that the genotype Stock Katz Blue followed by Stock Katz Ruby, Stock Katz Purple and Early Iron Pink were found to be superior with regard to most morphological, flowering and quality traits while, Arrow White followed by Early Iron Deep Yellow were found to be superior with regard to the yield parameters. From this, we can recommend that these genotypes can be utilized for commercial production and crop improvement for quality and yield traits.\r\nSince, the genotypes viz., Stock Katz Ruby and Stock Katz Blue have better quality and longevity in plants, these genotypes can be suggested for bedding and pot planting.\r\n','-','Sanketh M.R., Hemla Naik B., Chandrashekar S.Y., Kantharaj Y. and Ganapathi M. (2023). Characterization of Different Stock (Matthiola incana L.) Genotypes for Growth, Flowering and Yield Traits under the Hill Zone of Karnataka. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 15(10): 132-136.'),(7626,'168','To Test the Residual Toxicity of the Selective Nicotinic Receptor Antagonist- Spinosad on the Callosobruchus chinensis L. pulse Beetle (Coleoptera: Chrysomelidae) in a Lab Setting','A.N. Warghat, A.R. Tayde and S.S. Munje','To-Test-the-Residual-Toxicity-of-the-Selective-Nicotinic-Receptor-Antagonist--Spinosad-on-the-Callosobruchus-chinensis-L-A.N. Warghat-27.pdf','',1,'The study was conducted in the Department of Entomology lab at the AICRP (Soybean)- RRC, Amravati Dr. P.D.K.V., Akola (Maharashtra State), Regional Research Centre for (Soybean) in Akola between 2020 and 2021. The study\'s findings, To Test the Residual Toxicity of the Selective Nicotinic Receptor antagonist-Spinosad on the Callosobruchus chinensis L. pulse beetle (Coleoptera: Chrysomelidae) in a Lab Setting, were well-detailed, and it was evident that the study of rearing insects of the pulse beetle, Callosobruchus chinensis L. The goal of the laboratory tests was to create a homogeneous population. From there, Spinosad 45% SC relative toxicity against the pulse beetle, C. chinensis, was assessed based on the percentage of adult mortality of resistant species classified as Susceptible (S5) and Resistant Population (R1) and count the probit analysis of Susceptible (S6) and Resistant Population (R2). The bioassay, which was carried out using the impregnated filter paper method with five concentrations of each of the four treatments, including the control, and reproduced three times with Spinosad 45% SC, revealed that the higher concentrations of Spinosad had greater toxicity than the lower doses and Mortality percentage was noticed right away at 24 HAT in a 30 ppm concentration, where the average mortality was (8.33%), followed by the next treatment at 50 ppm, which was (10.00%), followed by 70 ppm, which showed that (13.33%), next to 90 ppm, which showed (15.00%), next to 150 ppm, which showed (16.67%) mortality, respectively. The average mortality was 8.33% at 48 HAT in a 30 ppm concentration, followed by 50 ppm treatment, or (11.67%), then 70 ppm revealed that (15.00%), then 90 ppm showed (18.33%), and finally 150 ppm showed (21.67%). Mortality was discovered to be 1.67 times higher than the water spray control. The average mortality at 72 HAT 30 ppm concentration was (35.00%), followed by the next treatment at 50 ppm, which was (38.33%), then 70 ppm showed that (45.00%), then 90 ppm showed (50.00%), and finally 150 ppm showed (53.33%), respectively. Mortality was also found when compared to the control (water spray), which was (8.33) found least frequently. The Probit analysis of the mortality % and extract concentration at 24, 48, and 72 hours after treatment revealed a linear connection when probit regression lines of the Spinosad resistant (S6) and (R2) populations were generated. According to the analysis, the regression line equations for (T5) 150 ppm were Y = 0.773x + 3.219 24 hours after treatment. The tested pesticides\' computed X2 values were lower than the table value (0.951), indicating that the adult population was homogenous. The regression line equations were computed as Y= 0.979x + 2.067 for (T5) 150 ppm at 48 hours post-treatment. The tested pesticides computed X2 values were lower than the table value (0.951), indicating that the adult population was homogenous. The regression line equations for (T5) 150 ppm at 72 HAT were derived as Y= 0.773x + 3.221. The tested pesticides\' computed X2 values were lower than the table value (0.951), indicating that the adult population was homogenous. This study suggests that eco-friendly management can help break down pest resistance in food grains, allowing them to be stored for longer periods without contamination.','Resistant species, population, stored grain pest, probit analysis, residual toxicity, Spinosad, Agro chemical','-','-','A.N. Warghat, A.R. Tayde and S.S. Munje (2023). To Test the Residual Toxicity of the Selective Nicotinic Receptor Antagonist- Spinosad on the Callosobruchus chinensis L. pulse Beetle (Coleoptera: Chrysomelidae) in a Lab Setting. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 15(10): 137-142.'),(7627,'168','Assessing Variability of Silicon in Relation to Soil Texture using Box Plot in Rice Growing Soils of Jammu Plains','Seema Pooniyan, Sarabdeep Kour, Tushar, Meenakshi Gupta and Rameshwar Gora ','Assessing-Variability-of-Silicon-in-Relation-to-Soil-Texture-using-Box-Plot-in-Rice-Growing-Soils-of-Jammu-Plains-Sarabdeep-Kour-28.pdf','',1,'Rice is among the most important food and grain crop in India but it suffers from many insect and pest infestations. Silicon (Si) is beneficial element for silicophilic plant species viz., rice and sugarcane. Rice takes more Si compared to any other primary nutrients from soil. The content of silica in plants is equivalent to or sometimes more than the major nutrients i.e. N, P and K supplied through fertilizers. However, there are differences in the parent materials which affect the mineral composition and particle size distribution of the soils which in turn effect the available Si content. In the present study, we investigated the variability between the amount of available Si in rice growing soils of three different districts of Jammu plains with respect to particle size distribution or soil texture. This analysis of the variability of silicon is important for assessing crop production under different soil textural classes. The study aimed to investigate the variability of silicon using a box plot. A total of 140 surface (0-15 cm) soil samples, collected from three different districts from rice-growing soils of Jammu plains were taken for investigation. The region had an interquartile range (IQR) of Si-1, Si-2 and Si-3, which is 173.78 (g kg-1), 241.80 (g kg-1) and 287.33 (g kg-1), respectively. The maximum variability distribution of silicon was found in sandy clay loam soil followed by sandy loam soils and the lowest distribution was observed in sandy clay texture under all the three extractants. The kurtosis distribution of available Si-1 was found to be positive and that of Si-2 and Si-3 was found to be negative. The skewness distribution in Si-1, Si-2 and Si-3 was found to be positive. But the kurtosis distribution of Si-1 of soil is positive (0.07) and negative kurtosis distribution was found (-0.48 and -0.57) for Si-2 and Si-3 of soil, respectively. The evaluation of silicon (available) distribution in Jammu, this can lead to make advanced plans for making better package and practices for Jammu valley area.','Silicon, rice, soil texture, variability, Jammu plains','The distribution of available Si content was related to soil texture in rice growing soils of Jammu plains and maximum distribution was noticed in sandy clay loam soil for all the three extractants followed by sandy loam soils and minimum distribution was seen under sandy clay texture. Negative correlation was found between the amounts of the coarse-sand fraction and the amounts of available Si extracted with three extractants in the soil using whole soil samples whereas silt and clay fraction of soil showed positive correlation with Si-1, Si-2 and Si-3 content of soil. ','-','Seema Pooniyan, Sarabdeep Kour, Tushar, Meenakshi Gupta and Rameshwar Gora (2023). Assessing Variability of Silicon in Relation to Soil Texture using Box Plot in Rice Growing Soils of Jammu Plains. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 15(10): 143-147.'),(7628,'168','Cultivating Resilience: Unveiling Key Traits for Preharvest Sprouting Tolerance in Vigna radiata (L.) Wilczek','Rajendra R. Lipane, Amol P. Solanke, Dnyaneshwar A. Raut, Rahul V. Adagale and G.R. Shamkuwar ','Cultivating-Resilience-Unveiling-Key-Traits-for-Preharvest-Sprouting-Tolerance-in-Vigna-radiata-(L.)-Wilczek-Amol-P-Solanke-29.pdf','',1,'Vigna radiata is a crucial pulse growing most of the parts of the globe. Imbibition is a first and key physiological process mainly depends on the permeability of seed coat. Looser seed coat invites the imbibition process quickly rather than harder seed coat. Based on this the present experiment was conducted to study the evaluation of mungbean genotypes for morpho - physiological traits imparting tolerance for preharvest sprouting. The experiment was laid out in Randomized block design, with sixteen genotypes i.e., AKM-8802, PKV-GREEN GOLD, PKV-AKM-4, BM-2002-1, BM-2003-2, KOPERGAON, AKM-9907, AKM-09-2, AKM-10-16, AKM-10-21, AKM-0603, AKM-10-05, AKM-10-13, AKM-10-24, AKM-8803 and AKM-9801with three replications. The result revealed that high hard seed percentage, lower germination in pod and seed, less seed and pod moisture percentage observed in AKM-9801, AKM-9907, BM-2002-1 and AKM-10-05, genotypes. This study delves into the strategies and key traits that confer preharvest sprouting tolerance in Vigna radiata.','Mungbean, Seed coat, Preharvest sprouting, Germination and Seed Moisture percentage','The genotypes AKM-9801 (61.33%), AKM-9907 (59.67%), and BM-2002-1 (53.33%) exhibited a higher percentage of hard seeds, while lower seed germination within the pod was observed in genotypes AKM-9907 (58.56%) and AKM-9801 (61.30%). Additionally, these two genotypes, AKM-9907 (42.33%) and AKM-9801 (44.96%), displayed lower overall seed germination percentages. Furthermore, genotype AKM-9801 (12.40%) and BM-2002-1 (13.10%) demonstrated reduced moisture content in their seeds.\r\nBased on the combination of high hard seed percentages, pod pubescence, lower germination rates within the pod and for individual seeds, as well as reduced seed and pod moisture percentages, it can be concluded that the genotypes AKM-9801, AKM-9907, BM-2002-1, and AKM-10-05 exhibit greater tolerance to preharvest sprouting.\r\n','-','Rajendra R. Lipane, Amol P. Solanke, Dnyaneshwar A. Raut, Rahul V. Adagale and G.R. Shamkuwar (2023). Cultivating Resilience: Unveiling Key Traits for Preharvest Sprouting Tolerance in Vigna radiata (L.) Wilczek. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 15(10): 148-151.'),(7629,'168','Effect of Storage Environment and Packaging Materials in Groundnut Seeds (Arachis hypogaea L.)','Afsanabanu Manik, Amaregouda A., M.K. Meena, M.M. Dhanoji, N.M. Shakuntala and Hasan Khan','Effect of Storage Environment and Packaging Materials in Groundnut Seeds (Arachis hypogaea L.)-Afsanabanu Manik-30.pdf','',1,'Groundnut seeds are prone to deterioration during storage. The quality of seeds after harvest is crucial for successful seed production and long-term use, especially for improving crop yields. Numerous factors, including genetic, edaphic, environmental, and biotic, influence the quality of seeds. Maintaining high-quality seed is necessary to create complex environments that encourage the most favorable interactions between the genetic composition of the seed and the surroundings in which it is grown, harvested, processed, and stored. Seeds lose some of their vigor and germination during storage due to deterioration. In light of this, the current study to understand the physiological and biochemical changes that occur in groundnut seeds under different storage conditions and packaging materials was conducted at Department of Crop Physiology, University of Agricultural sciences, Raichur, India. Groundnut seeds were stored in different packaging materials viz., gunny bags, cloth bags, high density polythene bags, purdue improved crop storage bags and vacuum packed bags and stored at ambient and cold conditions (5-7 °C and 65-70 % RH) for a period of 18 months. The results of the study revealed that seeds stored in vacuum packed bags maintained the highest seed quality parameters compared to seeds packed in gunny bags, cloth bags, high density polythene bags and purdue improved crop storage bags after 18 months of storage. These parameters included germination (89.61 % and 35.66 %), mobilization efficiency (17.97 % and 10.41 %), seedling dry weight (682 mg and 361 mg), moisture content (6.61 % and 9.91 %), dehydrogenase activity (1.46 and 1.01 OD values) and lipase activity (0.325 and 0.676 milliequivalent free fatty acid/min/g). Therefore, the study concluded that seeds stored in vacuum packed bags are the best options for storing groundnut seeds for up to 18 months without compromising their viability.','Seed storage, seed quality, mobilization efficiency','The degradation of groundnut seeds is an undesirable and harmful side effect of growing groundnuts. Viability is difficult to maintain while being stored in negative storage conditions. The study clearly showed that two primary factors affecting groundnut seed viability are temperature and seed moisture. Among the packaging materials and storage conditions, vacuum packaging and cold condition was the best for highest germination percentage, mobilization efficiency, seedling dry weight, dehydrogenase activity and lowest moisture content and lipase activity. Reduction in seeds quality parameters as storage period increases which leads to deterioration of seeds in groundnut. ','-','Afsanabanu Manik, Amaregouda A., M.K. Meena, M.M. Dhanoji, N.M. Shakuntala and Hasan Khan (2023). Effect of Storage Environment and Packaging Materials in Groundnut Seeds (Arachis hypogaea L.). Biological Forum – An International Journal, 15(10): 153-158.'),(7630,'168','Investigation on Different Sources and Levels of Calcium on Flowering, Quality and Yield in Asiatic Lily','Kamalashree S.D., Chandrashekar S. Y., Shivaprasad M., Hemanth Kumar P. and Girish R. ','Investigation-on-Different-Sources-and-Levels-of-Calcium-on-Flowering,-Quality-and-Yield-in-Asiatic-Lily-Chandrashekar-SY-31.pdf','',1,'Calcium plays an important role in plant growth and in many physiological activities of bulbous flowers. It has been found to be the best for enhancing both vegetative and flowering attributes in bulbous flower crops. With this background, an experiment was conducted at the experimental block (under naturally ventilated polyhouse) of the Department of Floriculture and Landscape Architecture, College of Horticulture, Mudigere, under Keladi Shivappa Nayaka University of Agricultural and Horticultural Sciences, Iruvakki, Shivamogga during 2022-2023. The experiment was laid out in Randomized Complete Block Design consisting of thirteen treatments- viz., T1 - control, T2 - 30 g/m2 calcium ammonium nitrate, T3 - 40 g/m2 calcium ammonium nitrate, T4 - 50 g/m2 calcium ammonium nitrate, T5 - 30 g/m2 calcium nitrate, T6 - 40 g/m2 calcium nitrate, T7 - 50 g/m2 calcium nitrate, T8 - 100 g/m2 calcium oxide, T9 - 200 g/m2 calcium oxide, T10 - 300 g/m2 calcium oxide, T11 - 20 g/m2 dolomite, T12 - 30 g/m2 dolomite and T13 - 40 g/m2 dolomite with three replications. Among different treatments, the application of dolomite at 40 g/m2had taken minimum days for flower bud initiation (29.80), first floret opening (54.53), 50 per cent flowering (61.33), maximum duration of flowering (17.33 days), number of buds per spike (3.60), bud length (8.53 cm), bud diameter (21.64 mm), petal length (11.37 cm), petal breadth (4.37 cm), length of the flower stalk (71.85 cm) and vase life of flowers with and without anthers (8.17 and 9.55 days, respectively).While, minimum was recorded in control. Hence, it is concluded that the soil application of dolomite 40 g/m2 at the time of planting proved to be promising for enhancing the flowering and quality of Asiatic lily.','Asiatic lily, dolomite, flowering, flower quality and yield','On the basis of the result obtained in the present investigation it is concluded that, the soil application of 40 g per m2 dolomite at the time of planting proved significant for improving the flowering and quality of Asiatic lily under protected cultivation. Hence, the treatment 40 g/m2 dolomite may be recommended for commercial cultivation of Asiatic lily.','-','Kamalashree S.D., Chandrashekar S. Y., Shivaprasad M., Hemanth Kumar P. and Girish R. (2023). Investigation on Different Sources and Levels of Calcium on Flowering, Quality and Yield in Asiatic Lily. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 15(10): 159-163.'),(7631,'168','Analyzing Land Use and Land Cover Changes using Geospatial Techniques, \r\nA Review\r\n','Jaskaran Singh Sohal and Arun Kaushal','Analyzing Land Use and Land Cover Changes using Geospatial Techniques-Jaskaran Singh Sohal-32.pdf','',1,'Land use and land cover (LULC) changes are crucial indicators of environmental transformation and development. This study comprehensively reviews research studies that have employed geospatial techniques to analyse LULC changes in various regions. Research papers spanning different geographical locations and time periods are summarized, highlighting their methodologies, findings, and implications. These studies employ remote sensing imagery, GPS and GIS techniques to assess LULC changes, examining urban expansion, agricultural shifts, deforestation, wetland alterations, and other transformations over time. The studies emphasize the importance of accurate classification techniques, demonstrating how different algorithms yield varying results in land cover mapping. The studies also deals in into classification techniques for LULC change detection, comparing methods such as maximum likelihood classification, support vector machines, artificial neural networks, and pixel-based approaches. These investigations underline the significance of algorithm selection and optimization for achieving accurate classification results. Moreover, the study highlights the need for effective spatial analysis and ground truth verification to enhance classification accuracy. Monitoring land use and land cover changes in a timely manner is of utmost significance. This enables the implementation of appropriate control strategies aimed at safeguarding the environment and preserving our natural resources. The study was facing with great challenge’s due to lack of relevant work.','Land use and land cover, Remote sensing, Change analysis & Geographic information system','This research study was conducted to review for demonstrating the power of geospatial techniques in analysing LULC changes. They reveal how different regions undergo varying degrees of transformation due to natural, human, and socioeconomic factors. The studies emphasize the importance of monitoring LULC changes to inform sustainable land use planning and conservation efforts. While advancements in remote sensing, GIS, and machine learning have provided valuable tools, challenges such as multi-source data integration and scalability remain areas for future exploration in the field of land cover classification and change detection. This introductory overview provides a glimpse into the diverse range of research efforts focused on analysing land use and land cover changes using geospatial techniques. From assessing shifts in agricultural practices and urban expansion to examining the effects of natural processes, these studies are crucial in advancing our understanding of how the Earth\'s surface evolves over time.','-','Jaskaran Singh Sohal and Arun Kaushal (2023). Analyzing Land Use and Land Cover Changes using Geospatial Techniques, A Review. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 15(10): 164-168.'),(7632,'164','Seasonal Occurrence of Diseases on Oyster Mushroom (Pleurotus spp.) in new Alluvial Region of West Bengal','S. Patar, S.K. Ray, Tasvina R. Borah, A. Roy Barman, R. Mondal and S. Dutta','Seasonal-Occurrence-of-Diseases-on-Oyster-Mushroom-(Pleurotus-spp.)-in-new-Alluvial-Region-of-West-Bengal-S.K.-Ray-88.pdf','',1,'Oyster mushroom (Pleurotus spp.) offers an important opportunity for use as cheap and nutritious food for the human being. When growing oyster mushrooms, a variety of harmful mould fungi are found in the substrate and thereby adversely affecting spawn run, causing huge loss in commercial mushroom production. In the present investigation, attempts were made to identify different competitor moulds and their occurrence in relation to weather variables under the Gangetic alluvial region of West Bengal. One main disease (Green mould) and three minor diseases (Black mould - Mucor spp., Inky cap - Coprinus spp., and Yellow mould) of oyster mushroom (Pleurotus ostreatus) were noticed during the period of survey (2017-18). Black mould and Inky cap infestations were noticed during the monsoon and late monsoon periods. However Green mould disease was initiated during the last week of October and peak disease incidence was recorded during December- January. The incidence of green mould disease was significantly negatively correlated with T. max (r = -0.938**), T. min (r = -0.868**), average temperature (-0.926**). Rainfall, minimum and maximum relative humidity, showed a non-significant negative correlation with green mould disease incidence. Stepwise multiple regression equation revealed that maximum temperature was found to be an important predictor for green mould disease development. Black mould disease was significantly positively correlated with T.min (r = 0.696*), RH.max (r = 0.679*), RH.min (r = 0.807**), average RH (0.797*) and rainfall (r = 0.794*) whereas, maximum and average temperature showed a non-significant positive correlation with Black mould disease incidence.','Green mould, yellow mould, black mould, inky cap disease, mushroom, weather variables','Mushrooms are healthy food for all age groups. Mushroom production is a lucrative avenue with less investments. Among other stress factors that hinder mushroom productivity, diseases cause substantial loss of yield. In the commercial mushroom farm (P. ostreatus) of Ghagharchar, Badkulla in Nadia district green mould was the main disease with as high as 35.42% disease incidence followed by black mould, inky cap and yellow mould with 4.92%, 7.25%, and 2.08% respectively. Green Mould disease was initiated during the last week of October and peak disease incidence was recorded during December-January. Whereas, yellow mould disease was observed during the dry season between January to April. Average temperature between 20-25°C was found to be an important predictor and could able to explain the variation of green mould disease incidence by more than 86 %. Combined weather variable i.e. Tavg*RHavg*Rf transformed was found to be an important predictor and could able to explain the variation of black mould disease incidence by more than 64 %. If the weather parameters are controlled and maintained at not favorable proportions for the mushroom disease incitants, the disease incidence could be kept at a minimum and yield loss could be managed. Round the year successful mushroom production provides nutritional security and improved livelihood for the growers.','-','S. Patar, S.K. Ray, Tasvina R. Borah, A. Roy Barman, R. Mondal and S. Dutta (2023). Seasonal Occurrence of Diseases on Oyster Mushroom (Pleurotus spp.) in new Alluvial Region of West Bengal. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 15(8a): 541-548.'),(7633,'168','The Impact of Storage Duration on the Yield of Wheat (Triticum spp. L.)','Megha R. Meshram, Siddhanath A. Shendekar, Nirmala B. Bhalekar, S.K. Ransing and M.T. Bhingarde ','The-Impact-of-Storage-Duration-on-the-Yield-of-Wheat-(Triticum-spp.-L.)-Megha-Meshram-33.pdf','',1,'Unpredictable weather patterns, extreme temperatures and irregular rainfall can disrupt crop cycles and affect overall agricultural production and productivity. Environmental changes are responsible for scarcity of resources like land, water, and agricultural inputs. Among various agricultural inputs seed is the basic unit in farming process. Implementing adaptive measures to face the challenges of climate change, we can use the aged seed for sowing upto which the seed can maintain its viability and vigour. By checking the viability of seed we can revalidate seed after ending of validation period two more times than the common validity period. The research was conducted during rabi 2018-19. Experiment was set out in Factorial Randomized Block Design (FRBD) with two replications at Post Graduate Institute, research field, MPKV, Rahuri. The experiment include four varieties viz., Godavari (V1), Panchavati (V2), Tapovan (V3) and Trimbak (V4), three seed ages fresh seed (A0), revalidated (Rvd) Ist seed (A1) and revalidated (Rvd) IInd seed (A2). The study revealed that, significant difference were observed among the varieties. Yield characters i.e. field emergence (77.75 %), yield per plot (1.74 kg) and yield per hectare (44.41 q) were superior in respect of variety Godavari followed by Panchavati, Tapovan and Trimbak. Due to various seed ages the field emergence percentage differed significantly and was more in fresh seed (87.56 %) followed by RvdIst and RvdIInd seed. The yield attributes viz., yield per plot (2.07 kg) and yield per hectare (52.84 q) differed significantly due to various seed age and were highest in the fresh seed followed by RvdIst and RvdIInd seed. There were no definite relationship observed in the days to 50 % flowering, plant height, number of tillers per plant and days to maturity among the plants from fresh seed, RvdIst and RvdIInd seed. Out of the various seed ages, fresh seed produced higher seed yield than others and RvdIInd seed reported less but consistent performance.','Storage period, wheat, yield, seed age, revalidate seed','The quality seeds are essential for productive agriculture. Strong early development, optimum germination, and substantial crop yields are all guaranteed by high-quality seeds. They exhibit homogeneity, disease resistance, and desired genetic features. A large increase in crop yield and overall agricultural sustainability can be achieved by planting high-quality seeds. The field emergence percentage of different varieties differed significantly from each other; variety Godavari recorded higher field emergence than rest of varieties, similarly the yield contributing parameters recorded higher values viz., yield per plot and yield per hectare in variety Godavari followed by Trimbak, Tapovan and Panchavati. The field emergence percentage due to different seed ages differed significantly and was more in fresh seed followed by RvdIst and RvdIInd seed. The yield attributes viz., yield per plot and yield per hectare differed significantly due to different seed age and were maximum in the fresh seed followed by RvdIst and RvdIInd seed. There was no definite relationship observed in the days to 50 % flowering, plant height, number of tillers per plant and days to maturity among the plants from fresh seed, RvdIst and RvdIInd seed.','-','Megha R. Meshram, Siddhanath A. Shendekar, Nirmala B. Bhalekar, S.K. Ransing and M.T. Bhingarde (2023). The Impact of Storage Duration on the Yield of Wheat (Triticum spp. L.). Biological Forum – An International Journal, 15(10): 169-173.'),(7634,'168','Genetic variability Studies on some Indigenous Cultivars of Assam under Organic and Conventional Cultivation Method','Lonishree Dutta, K.K. Sharma and Dibosh Bordoloi ','Genetic-variability-Studies-on-Some-Indigenous-Cultivars-of-Assam-under-Organic-and-Conventional-Cultivation-Method-Lonishree-Dutta-34.pdf','',1,'A field experiment was carried out with 11 genotypes of indigenous Assam rice cultivars collected from Kakopothar, Tinsukia District where rice cultivation is practiced organically for more than 10 years. The experiment was conducted under organic and conventional condition at Instruction cum Research Farm of Department of Plant Breeding and Genetics, Assam Agricultural University, Jorhat, Assam, India to study the variability and genetic parameters for yield and its components and grain quality traits. Variance analysis displayed extensive traits-wise variations across accessions, indicating variability and the opportunity for genetic selection for desirable traits. The studies on genetic variation and its understanding in indigenous cultivars of Assam rice (Oryza sativa L.) can help to select varieties for organic cultivation. The investigation revealed that the estimates of pooled GCV for all the characters studied were slightly less than pooled PCV estimates indicating the influence of the environment on the genotype performance. The traits ear-bearing tiller, thousand-grain weight, grains per panicle, grain length, grain length by breadth ratio, kernel length, kernel breadth, harvest index, and grain yield per hectare all showed moderate to high variability, high heritability coupled with high genetic advance as percent of mean indicating the role of additive gene effect and simple selection procedures may be effective for improving these traits. Low PCV and GCV were recorded for the traits viz., days to 50% flowering, hulling percentage, and milling percentage. High heritability coupled with low genetic advance as percent of mean was observed for days to 50% flowering, hulling percentage and milling percentage indicating the role of both additive and non-additive gene effects in the inheritance of these traits.','Analysis of variance, genetic advance, heritability, additive gene effect, non-additive gene effect','The study concluded that significant yield-attributing traits such as the ear-bearing tiller, thousand-grain weight, grains per panicle, grain length, grain length by breadth ratio, kernel length, kernel breadth, harvest index, and grain yield per hectare all exhibited moderate to high variability, high heritability, along with high genetic advance as a percentage of mean, indicating the predominant role of additive gene action. For most of the characters where PCV and GCV are of higher magnitude, improvement in varieties can be achieved through direct selection. This indicates that these characters will respond to selection in both the growing conditions. PCV and GCV were low in case of hulling per cent, milling per cent and HRR while heritability estimate was found to be high. Therefore, these characters are least influenced by environment. So, the breeder can perform selection based on the phenotypic expression of the characters. Jahinga Sali was found to be early flowering type as compared to other traditional varieties under study. Plant height was found to be higher in conventional situation than organic due to high fertilizer intake. From the study, ear bearing tiller and panicle length can be increased in organic situation by application of organic fertilizers which is a direct component towards achieving higher yield. Flag leaf area of varieties like Kola Joha, Kola Sali, Nekera Lahi, and Malbhog Lahi were found to be highest and is at par under both the growing condition. Thus, character improvement could be taken either in organic and conventional situations. Solpona exhibited higher grains per panicle in organic conditions than conventional, indicating that the variety could be taken as parents for hybridization in organic situations. Given the high demand for organic food in domestic and international markets, grain characteristics play an important role. Thus, from the study, Beji Lahi was found to be a promising genotype for its long and slender grain quality and good head rice recovery. This reveals that for executing a breeding program for improvement of grain quality Beji Lahi could be an ideal variety. The study indicated that Kola Joha and Kola Sali were found to have head rice recovery to the tune of 98 percent in organic situations. Such varieties may be used as donors for head rice recovery in breeding programs under organic situations. Solpona is a rice variety which is having higher hulling percentage in organic conditions. This indicates that Solpona can be a parent in hybridization for the improvement of grain characters in organic situations. ','-','Lonishree Dutta, K.K. Sharma and Dibosh Bordoloi (2023). Genetic variability Studies on some Indigenous Cultivars of Assam under Organic and Conventional Cultivation Method. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 15(10): 174-181.'),(7635,'168','Influence of Packaging on the Buying Decisions of College Students','E. Santhoshi, E. Shirin Hima Bindu, N. Pavani and Swetha Kodali ','Influence-of-Packaging-on-the-Buying-Decisions-of-College-Students-E-Shirin-Hima-Bindu-35.pdf','',1,'The primary aim of this study is to identify key packaging factors that significantly impact consumers\' buying decisions. This research seeks to uncover the pivotal elements associated with packaging effects that contribute to a brand\'s success. To effectively design packaging that resonates with consumers, companies need a deep understanding of the consumer buying process and a clear grasp of packaging\'s role as a variable influencing purchase decisions. Therefore, gaining insights into the factors that sway the purchasing behavior of college students and pinpointing the most crucial packaging elements can assist companies in making informed decisions about their product packaging strategies. A potential challenge of this study is the limited scope of the sample, which comprises of 75 college students in Hyderabad. Extrapolating findings from this specific demographic to a broader consumer base may be challenging due to variations in consumer behavior among different age groups and regions. Despite these challenges, the study offers valuable insights into the packaging factors influencing purchasing decisions among college students in Hyderabad, shedding light on a specific consumer segment. The findings can serve as a starting point for businesses looking to tailor their packaging strategies for this demographic, and it underscores the importance of understanding consumer preferences and the role of packaging in shaping buying decisions.','Packaging, Students, Buying behavior, Purchase','The present study conducted among 75 intermediates, graduates and post graduates college students on impact of packaging and purchasing behavior. The current study revealed that design, information provided on package, quality of packaging mostly affecting the respondents to purchase products/while purchasing. Sometimes respondents pay an extra amount for good packaging. It can also be concluded that the attractive background, innovative packaging and the design of the packaging wrapper influences the college students towards product purchase.','-','E. Santhoshi, E. Shirin Hima Bindu, N. Pavani and Swetha Kodali (2023). Influence of Packaging on the Buying Decisions of College Students. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 15(10): 182-186.'),(7636,'163','Nanoencapsulation of Nutrients in Fish Feed: Enhancing Bioavailability, Absorption, and Health Benefits for Farmed Fish','V.K. Misra, Sheetanshu Gupta, C.P. Singh, Sashank Singh and Aup Kumar ','Nanoencapsulation-of-Nutrients-in-Fish-Feed-Enhancing-Bioavailability-Absorption,-and-Health-Benefits-for-Farmed-Fish-VK-Misra-98.pdf','',1,'Nanoencapsulation has emerged as a promising strategy for improving the delivery and efficacy of nutrients in fish feed. This review aims to provide a comprehensive analysis of the impact of nanoencapsulation on the bioavailability, absorption, and health benefits of nutrients in farmed fish. By encapsulating essential nutrients such as vitamins, minerals, omega-3 fatty acids, and antioxidants within nanoparticles, researchers have sought to optimize nutrient utilization, enhance fish growth, boost immune response, reduce oxidative stress, and improve disease resistance. The studies reviewed herein demonstrate the tremendous potential of nanoencapsulation to address challenges associated with nutrient degradation, limited bioavailability, and inefficient absorption in conventional fish feed formulations. Furthermore, the review highlights the mechanisms underlying the improved bioactivity of nano-encapsulated nutrients, including protection against degradation, targeted delivery to specific tissues, and enhanced cellular uptake. However, considerations regarding nanoparticle toxicity, environmental impact, and regulatory guidelines warrant further investigation to ensure the safe and sustainable implementation of nanoencapsulation technology in aquaculture practices. Overall, the findings reviewed here indicate that nanoencapsulation holds great promise for advancing fish feed formulations, promoting the health and productivity of farmed fish, and contributing to the sustainable growth of the aquaculture industry.','Nanoencapsulation, nutrients, fish feed, bioavailability, absorption, health benefits, farmed fish, growth, immune response, oxidative stress, disease resistance, aquaculture, sustainability','Nanoencapsulation technology holds significant promise for enhancing fish nutrition and improving aquaculture sustainability. Through the encapsulation of nutrients, bioactive compounds, and antioxidants, nanoencapsulation can improve nutrient stability, solubility, and absorption in fish. This technology offers several advantages, including controlled release of nutrients, protection against degradation, and targeted delivery mechanisms. By overcoming the limitations of conventional feed additives, nano-encapsulated nutrients can effectively enhance growth performance, feed efficiency, and immune response in farmed fish.\r\nThe selection of appropriate nanoparticles and encapsulation materials is crucial for optimizing the effectiveness of nanoencapsulation in fish feed. Researchers are continuously exploring and developing new materials with improved encapsulation properties, biocompatibility, and biodegradability. Additionally, advancements in scaling up nanoencapsulation techniques for commercial production are essential to meet the increasing demand for sustainable fish feed.\r\nIt is important to address the safety considerations and potential environmental impacts associated with nanoencapsulation technology. The assessment of nanoparticle toxicity, evaluation of environmental implications, and adherence to regulatory guidelines are critical for ensuring the responsible implementation of nanoencapsulation in aquaculture systems. Furthermore, the consideration of sustainability aspects, such as the use of biodegradable materials and minimizing environmental contamination, can contribute to the long-term viability and acceptance of this technology.\r\n','-','V.K. Misra, Sheetanshu Gupta, C.P. Singh, Sashank Singh and Aup Kumar (2023). Nanoencapsulation of Nutrients in Fish Feed: Enhancing Bioavailability, Absorption, and Health Benefits for Farmed Fish. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 15(5a): 632-639.'),(7637,'168','Investigating Post-Harvest Soil Properties of Summer Greengram (Vigna radiata L.) under the Influence of Sulphur, Organic Manures and Biofertilizers','N.M. Chaudhari, K.K. Patel, V.B. Virani, B.J. Chaudhary and J.B. Delvadiya ','Investigating-Post-Harvest-Soil-Properties-of-Summer-Greengram-(Vigna-radiata-L.)-under-the-Influence-of-Sulphur,-Organic-Manures-and-Biofertilizers-NM-Chaudhari-36.pdf','',1,'A field experiment was conducted at Soil and Water Management, NARP Phase-II (NARP Farm), Cotton Research Sub Station, N.A.U., Achhalia (South Gujarat Agro Climatic Zone-II) during summer season of 2021 to investigated the impact of sulphur, organic manure and biofertilizers on soil properties after harvest of greengram. Twelve treatment combinations were tested in a factorial randomized block design with three replications. Sulphur levels (20kg/ha, 30kg/ha, 40kg/ha) were combined with organic manure (5 t FYM/ha, 1 t vermicompost/ha) and biofertilizers (control, PSB + Rhizobium inoculation). Greengram variety GM-6 was sown, and recommended practices were followed. Soil samples were analyzed for various parameters using established methods. Sulphur application at 40 kg/ha significantly improved organic carbon, available nitrogen, phosphorus, potassium, sulphur and iron in soil. Organic manure, especially FYM at 5 t/ha, enhanced organic carbon, available nitrogen, phosphorus, potassium and sulphur. Biofertilizer inoculation with PSB and rhizobium significantly increased organic carbon, available nitrogen, phosphorus, potassium, sulphur and zinc in soil. Interaction effects revealed that combining sulphur, organic manure and biofertilizer synergistically increased available sulphur in soil. This study underscores the importance of sulphur, organic manure and biofertilizers in enhancing soil fertility.','Greengram, sulphur, organic manures, biofetilizers, soil properties','The results of this study highlight the significant influence of sulphur, organic manures and biofertilizers on post-harvest soil properties in summer greengram cultivation. Higher sulphur application, especially in combination with organic manures and biofertilizers, positively impacted nutrient availability and soil characteristics. These findings underscore the potential of integrated nutrient management strategies (40 kg S/ha, 5 t FYM/ha along with PSB + Rhizobium inoculation) to enhance soil fertility and greengram productivity.','-','N.M. Chaudhari, K.K. Patel, V.B. Virani, B.J. Chaudhary and J.B. Delvadiya (2023). Investigating Post-Harvest Soil Properties of Summer Greengram (Vigna radiata L.) under the Influence of Sulphur, Organic Manures and Biofertilizers. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 15(10): 187-191.'),(7638,'165','Effect of Freeze Drying on the Macronutrient characteristics of Chenna Balls','Sanjana Pandey and Mohan Singh ','Effect-of-Freeze-Drying-on-the-Macronutrient-characteristics-of-Chenna-Balls-Sanjana-Pandey-182.pdf','',1,'Dairy products, including chhena, are essential constituents of a nutritious diet, enjoying widespread recognition globally, particularly within vegetarian culinary practices. The preservation of chhena poses a significant challenge, and the core focus of this research centers on the exclusive method for enhancing the chhena\'s shelf life. This investigation\'s principal aim was to scrutinize the impact of macronutrients, encompassing moisture content, protein, fat, carbohydrates, and ash content, on specimens derived from diverse milk fat formulations, encompassing 3%, 5%, and 7%.The moisture content in the freeze-dried chhena balls was found to range from 0.63% to 1.07% (w.b.), while protein levels varied between 17.03% and 17.77%. The fat, carbohydrate, and ash content in freeze-dried chhena balls exhibited a range of 2.77% to 6.93%, 73.29% to 78.18%, and 0.91% to 1.31%, respectively. These findings provide valuable insights into the nutritional composition of chhena and its variations based on milk fat compositions.','Freeze Drying, Chhena, Moisture Content, Protein, Fat, Carbohydrate, Ash Content','It is concluded that the optimization of the chhena ball production process and its effects on quality attributes, particularly in relation to varying diameters and processing conditions. The results of this study have the potential to impact the food processing industry positively, as they shed light on the potential for improving the production and quality control of chhena balls. These findings also have implications for enhancing the shelf-life and overall quality of dairy products, benefiting both producers and consumers alike. Future research may delve into the practical applications and advancements in chhena ball production processes and their relevance to the broader food industry.','-','Sanjana Pandey and Mohan Singh (2023). Effect of Freeze Drying on the Macronutrient characteristics of Chenna Balls. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 15(9): 1060-1064.'),(7639,'168','Studies on Population Dynamics of Yellow Stem Borer, Scirpophaga incertulas walker (Lepidoptera: Pyralidae)','Gangappa Nayak, Prabhuraj A., Sujay Hurali, S.G. Hanchinal, M. Bheemanna, B.G. Koppalkar and J. M. Nidagundi ','Studies-on-Population-Dynamics-of-Yellow-Stem-Borer-Scirpophaga-incertulas-walker-(Lepidoptera-Pyralidae)-Gangapp-Nayak-37.pdf','',1,'The yellow stem borer (YSB) is monophagous and closely associated with the crop throughout the cropping period, better understanding of its adult activity pattern studies is considerable. This study was conducted on paddy crop at Agriculture Research Station, Gangavathi during 2021-22. Ten locations monitored using pheromone traps revealed clear patterns in the flight period. Moths burst on scene only during the expected times, with a clear rise, fall and an in-between peak. Each flight period occurred at exactly the time of transition between two generations and there was a distinct definiteness with the higher period. Each flight period preceded and followed by zero moth activity. Further there was a distinct occurrence of definite life stages for the period of observations. The first peak trap catches ranged from 11.33 to 121.67 moths/trap/week, the second peak trap catches ranged from 10.67 to 126.67 moths/trap/week and third peak trap catches ranged from14 to108.67 moths/trap/week. Negligible to no moths were recorded during 28th and 39th SMW across all the locations during the study period.','Population dynamics, flight period, peak moth activity, trap catches','It is quite fascinating to know that even though the cropping period varies considerable across wide paddy growing nations, moth activity period remains more or less same. Pheromone traps are now recommended against YSB. The current study shows that there are distinct flight periods when pheromone traps should be used; usage during other times will not only add to the cost, but also result in loss of farmers trust on the technology.','-','Gangappa Nayak, Prabhuraj A., Sujay Hurali, S.G. Hanchinal, M. Bheemanna, B.G. Koppalkar and J. M. Nidagundi (2023). Studies on Population Dynamics of Yellow Stem Borer, Scirpophaga incertulas walker (Lepidoptera: Pyralidae). Biological Forum – An International Journal, 15(10): 192-198.'),(7640,'168','Effect of different Dates of Sowing, Irrigation Scheduling and Soil Amendments on Growth Attributes of Wheat','CH V L Kishore, Sharad Pandey, Maneesh Bhatt, Mamta and BKM Patro','Effect-of-different-Dates-of-Sowing-Irrigation-Scheduling-and-Soil-Amendments-on-Growth-Attributes-of-Wheat-CH-VL-Kishore-38.pdf','',1,'A two-year field experiment was conducted during the rabi season of 2020–21 and 2021–22 at the Agriculture Farm, Himgiri Zee University, P.O. Sherpur, Chakrata Rd., Dehradun, Uttarakhand, to study the effects of different dates of sowing, irrigation scheduling, and soil amendments on the growth attributes of wheat (Triticum aestivum L.). The study consists of three irrigation scheduling’s:I1 (irrigation at 40% depletion from ASM), I2 (irrigation at 50% depletion from ASM), and I3 (irrigation at growth stages) in the main plots, while the three soil amendments S1 (FYM @ 10 t ha-1), S2 (urban compost @ 5 t ha-1), and S3 (vermicompost @ 5 t ha-1) are in the sub-plots with two dates of sowing, viz. D1 (timely sown) and D2 (late sown) in the sub-sub plot with three replications. Among the different dates of sowing, irrigation scheduling, and soil amendment application, D1 (timely sown), I1 (irrigation at 40% depletion from ASM), and S3 (vermicompost @ 5 t ha-1) showed the highest growth attributes, viz., plant height, spike length, peduncle length, number of tillers, and leaf area index, which were observed during both years of the experiment (2020–21 and 2021–22), respectively. Thus, it can be concluded that timely sown wheat crop along with 40% depletion of available soil moisture and vermicompost @ 5 t ha-1 showed the best agronomic practices and resulted in the highest grain yield and economic return under sandy loam soil conditions at Himgiri Zee University.','Different dates of sowing, Irrigation scheduling and Soil amendments','Based on the results presented above, it can be concluded that applying irrigation at 40% DASM (Depletion from Available Soil Moisture) created optimal conditions for wheat when sown in a timely manner. Additionally, the application of vermicompost @ of 5 t ha-1 improved soil fertility by adding more nutrients to the soil, resulting in better outcomes compared to the other treatment combinations.','-','CH V L Kishore, Sharad Pandey, Maneesh Bhatt, Mamta and BKM Patro (2023). Effect of different Dates of Sowing, Irrigation Scheduling and Soil Amendments on Growth Attributes of Wheat. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 15(10): 199-203.'),(7641,'168','A Review on Impact of Biotic and Abiotic components on Aphid species infesting in Seed spices ','Tara Yadav, Gaurang Chhangani and Abhishek Yadav ','A-Review-on-Impact-of-Biotic-and-Abiotic-components-on-Aphid-species-infesting-in-Seed-spices-Tara-Yadav-39.pdf','',1,'The seed spices constitute an important group of agriculture commodities and play a significant role in our national economy. Several insect pests associated with seed spice crops. Among these pests sucking pests are the largest group and cause maximum damage to the crops in field conditions. Aphids are the major yield limiting factor, as they cause more damage than any other pest on seed spice crop. Aphids populations are govern by many biotic and abiotic factors i.e. temperature, rainfall, humidity and natural enemies.','Seed spices, Aphids, biotic and abiotic factors','Seed spices were infested by many insect pests but aphids (Hyadaphis coriandri Myzus persicae, Aphis craccivora, Aphis gossypii) were the major insect pest of seed spices and population of these aphid species are governed by many biotic and abiotic components of environment. The biotic component includes natural enemies whereas abiotic component includes temperature, relative humidity and rainfall etc. ','-','Tara Yadav, Gaurang Chhangani and Abhishek Yadav (2023). A Review on Impact of Biotic and Abiotic components on Aphid species infesting in Seed spices. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 15(10): 204-207.'),(7642,'168','DNA Barcoding of Two Economically Important edible insect species, Asian giant hornet, Vespa magnifica and a Lepidopteran, Xyleutes sp from Manipur for Solving species Ambiguity','Thounaojam Sheileja, K. Mamocha Singh and Tourangbam Shantibala ','DNA-Barcoding-of-Two-Economically-Important-edible-insect-species,-Asian-giant-hornet,-Vespa-magnifica-and-a-Lepidopteran,-Xyleutes-sp-from-Manipur-for-Solving-species-Ambiguity-Thounaojam-Sheileja-40.pdf','',1,'DNA barcoding is a standardized and widely used method to distinguish categories and proper identification of insect species. The two edible insects belonging to Hymenopteran and Lepidopteran order were collected as a delicious food item by different ethnic communities of Northeast India, especially in Manipur. Molecular identification was carried out by using COI gene. Phylogenetic analysis using BLAST sequences revealed that the species were Vespa magnifica and Xyleutes sp. COI gene sequences was submitted to NCBI and the Accession number were ON514039 (Vespa magnifica) and ON533749 (Xyleutes sp). The species conformity was carried out based on mitochondrial COI gene sequences, molecular evolutionary divergence and phylogenic status of insect species. The present study the great scope of DNA barcoding technique using COI gene sequences was used for identification and documenting of edible insects in the region (Manipur). ','DNA barcode, COI gene sequence, Edible insect, Phylogenetic analysis','The wild species of selected edible insects are eaten fondly by different ethnic people of the State; serving of this insect curry or in fried form along with other ingredients as per the consumers’ choice. They are expensive selling at the price of Rs. 2000 – 5000 per hive or 7-8 insect larvae because of their demands in local markets as well as wild in nature. Insects are characterized by rich species diversity and large populations so as nutritive resources; they can be widely exploited and have great development potential. DNA barcode technique has a great scope for the identification and documentation of edible insects, animals, etc. The selected samples will be sent for complete mitochondrial genome which will be helpful for the studies of population genetic structure, conservation and genetic programmes and evolution of species and the published mitogenomes will be a promising marker to study and understand phylogenetic relationship. The comprehensive data generated from present study would be useful in further implication for edible insects for development of diagnostic guide at molecular level.\r\nIn India, there are a very few focused national and international projects which include such collaborations. Financial support/funding is one of the most important problems in the field of taxonomic research. Collaborations between national institutions focusing on molecular aspects, and joining forces with international platforms like the Centre for Biodiversity Genomics, will improve the DNA barcoding status of Indian insects. Indian scientists should focus on specimen-based group-specific DNA barcode libraries with national-level campaigns.\r\n','-','Thounaojam Sheileja, K. Mamocha Singh and Tourangbam Shantibala (2023). DNA Barcoding of Two Economically Important edible insect species, Asian giant hornet, Vespa magnifica and a Lepidopteran, Xyleutes sp from Manipur for Solving species Ambiguity. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 15(10): 208-211.'),(7643,'168','A Study on Fish Diversity of Meghalaya','Bashemphang Snaitang, Shriprna Saxena, Hameka Papang and M.K. Yadav ','A-Study-on-Fish-Diversity-of-Meghalaya-MK-Yadav-41.pdf','',1,'An attempted has been made to know fish biodiversity of Meghalaya. In the current study it was concluded that that the total of one hundred two (102) species were found in Meghalaya and many fish species were belong to family Cyprinidae. The data collection was done by using different types of nets (cast nets, gill nets, drag nets and triangular scoop nets) and help of local fish farmers of Meghalaya. It is concluded that the Order Cypriniformes has the maximum number of species in the Meghalaya River that entails of 53 species followed by Siluriformes that entail of 34 species. Perciformes has the lowest number of species that it consists of only one species. The research deals with biodiversity of fish fauna from different rivers of Meghalaya. In the future, this study will be of great assistance in developing a strategy for the conservation of Meghalaya\'s fish biodiversity.','Diversity, Abundance, Vulnerable, Endangered, Least Concern','Fish diversity plays a crucial role in nutrient cycling food chain and food web, or stable the ecosystem, Fish species provide benefits in the economy, supporting various trade such as aquariums, and are significant for cultural and spiritual in many communities Aquatic life is also impacted by various activities including Human activities, urbanisation, Industrialisation, waste water discharge pollution, overfishing, climate change, habitat destruction To prevent and conserve the aquatic life in the ecosystem, agent and research should and must conduct a situation analysis and problem identification process by sharing knowledge to fish farmers stakeholders and local communities so that they can improve to increase productivity, sustainability, valuing their traditional knowledge in the aquaculture sectors.','-','Bashemphang Snaitang, Shriprna Saxena, Hameka Papang and M.K. Yadav (2023). A Study on Fish Diversity of Meghalaya. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 15(10): 212-216.'),(7644,'156','A Neglected LGBTQ Community in India Problems and Solutions','Ashish Sharma','A-Neglected-LGBTQ-Community-in-India-Problems-and-Solutions-Ashish-Sharma-151.pdf','',1,'Human evolution is dynamic in nature. Over the years and decades, it preferences has been of living. One of the aspects of this ever-changing preferences is the choice of sexual orientation. A stratum of the human population i.e. young children and the LGBTQ community (lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender, queer) now a days tend to become the victim of the societal distress just because of their sexual choices. Society does not approve them because of its pre-conceived notions that sexual orientation can only be heterogeneous in nature and not homogenous like gay, bisexual, lesbian etc. Even in this era of pool of statutes, human rights agencies and various constitutions across the world, the rights of this community are still being undermined. Human evolution in a proper way can only be possible it the natural rights of every human, irrespective of its gender, are addressed sufficiently and in consequence are respected and welcomed by the society. But the biggest challenge in the present era is that the LGBTQ community faces difficulties in the every sphere of life. Therefore, now it is high time that the rights of this community along with children are protected and confer a dignified life to them.','LGBTQ, Sexual orientation, Queer, Discrimination, Harassment, Bullying','It is manifestly clear that LGBTQ community who have different sexual orientation face discrimination and avoidance from the society. This avoidance is extending from simplest personal relations up to the most general social ignorance. In the light of the above discussion, following initiatives can be taken safeguarding and improving the conditions of the LGBTQ community. Schools are the crucial places where the situation of LGBTQ community needs to be addressed efficiently. Because from here, the ways to the other aspects of life opens. \r\nSchools can implement the following practices.\r\n1. Motivate all the students to respect the choices of everyone and prevent harassment, discrimination and bullying.\r\n2. Establish counseling rooms in the school premises so that an aggrieved LGBTQ individual can take shelter under it an address his/her issue and take necessary counseling.\r\n3. Encourage school staff to develop and hold trainings on how to create safe congenial school atmosphere for all students irrespective of sexual orientation or gender identity and encourage staff to attend all these trainings.\r\n4. Provide health services like HIV/STD testing and counseling to LGBTQ youth.\r\na. Union and the State Governments should take initiatives to support employers in making workplace more of inclusive cultured to LGBTQ community\r\nb. Stigmatizing language to LGBTQ community should be avoided\r\nc. Authorities, school, peers and family need to be more tolerant in accepting the gender variant children and treating the people of different sexual orientations equally.\r\nd. Framing the policies and applying them in a friendly manner rather than being hostile.\r\ne. Instilling the confidence and assurance in the individuals of LGBTQ community that they do not require the social validation either from their parents, peer etc. to exercise their right to sexual choices.\r\nf. State will have to take stand to protect the rights of LGBTQ community as parens patriae if LGBTQ/Children are rejected by their parents.\r\nAt last it can be said that there is no need of creating a new specific set of LGBTQ rights because the legal obligations on the states to safeguard the rights of LGBTQ individuals are well established in international human rights law on the basis of the Universal Declaration of Human Rights. All persons regardless of sex, sexual orientation or gender identity are entitled to the protection conferred by international human rights law.\r\n','-','Ashish Sharma (2023). A Neglected LGBTQ Community in India Problems and Solutions. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 15(4): 910-914.'),(7645,'156','Impact of Environmental Law in India with Reference to Climate Change and Environmental Degradation','Ashish Sharma','Impact-of-Environmental-Law-in-India-with-Reference-to-Climate-Change-and-Environmental-Degradation-Ashish-Sharma-152.pdf','',1,'Protecting the environment is vital since it affects your livelihood and health. Deforestation, air and water pollution, overgrazing, and other effects of decades of continuous exploitation of natural resources have resulted in environmental deterioration. With 1.3 billion people, India cannot satisfy the demands of its population. Therefore, we have environmental regulations to decrease air pollution, water pollution, and deforestation to maintain a stable environment and conservation for future generations. The country\'s ecology is deteriorating as a result of rising demand and the need for additional land and resources to satisfy basic requirements. Because of growing global concern and climate change, the majority of people today are dealing with food and water shortages. Given the current state of affairs, we must update our environmental laws to encourage sustainable growth through astute technological and intellectual decisions, set limits on the use of natural resources, and penalize lawbreakers.','Environment Laws, sustainable development, air pollution, deforestation, population, natural resources, and environment deterioration','The government implemented environmental laws in the 1980s to protect water, land, soil, public health, and flora and fauna due to the excessive use of natural resources and fossil fuels. At the time, urbanization was less than it is today, and the growing population needed access to basic necessities, which means more land, water, and food are needed. This has led to excessive deforestation, water pollution, and air pollution due to an increase in road transportation. Given that India is now among the most susceptible nations to climate change and environmental degradation, legal reform is necessary since human activity has no boundaries when it comes to the environment and nature, which contributes to climate change.','-','Ashish Sharma (2023). Impact of Environmental Law in India with Reference to Climate Change and Environmental Degradation. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 15(4): 915-918.'),(7646,'150','GC-MS Profiling of Borassus flabellifer Linn. Tubers','Bhina Rubavathi V. and Beena Lawrence ','GC-MS-Profiling-of-Borassus-flabellifer-Linn.-Tubers-Bhina-Rubavathi-V-123.pdf','',1,'Borassus flabellifer is commonly known as palmyra palm, tala or tal palm, toddy palm, lontar palm, wine palm, or ice apple and is native to South Asia. The present work was undertaken to profile the components available in the tuber extract of Borassus flabellifer Linn. Around eighteen compounds were eluted which was distributed through 23 peaks having retention time ranging from 5.828 to 44.835 min. Among the eighteen compounds eluted, seven compounds were found to have medicinal properties. Three compounds- Dioxolane (Peak 2 at retention time 7.850 min.), N- Acetyltyramine (Peak 6 at retention time 24.387 min.) and 9, 10 – Anthracenedione (Peak 14 at retention time 39.562 min.) are known to have potent anticancer properties. In the wake of increasing number of cancer cases in the present time, the root tubers of the selected plant can be used as lead compounds to design new drugs to fight the dreadful disease- Cancer.','Borassus flabellifer, GC-MS, Anticancer compounds','Medicinal plants, which form the backbone of traditional medicine, in the last few decades, have been the subject of very intense pharmacological studies, Due to the undesirable side effects of synthetic drugs, phytocomponents of plants may be useful for drug discovery and development against various diseases. The presence of 18 phytoconstituents in the plant extract was confirmed through GC-MS analysis. The tubers of Borassus flabellifer contains plenty of bioactive compounds. It is believed to possess medicinal values, frequently associated with chronic diseases and also certain types of malignancy. Therefore, it seems reasonable to consider the tubers of Borassus flabellifer as a valuable ingredient which can improve and enhance our health. From this study, it can be concluded that Borassus flabellifer may serve as a new potential source of anticancer medicines due to the presence of these phytochemicals and bioactive compounds which confer the medicinal properties. However in silico works of these compounds can pave the way for new anticancer drug discoveries from theses natural source of phytocompounds.','-','Bhina Rubavathi V. and Beena Lawrence (2023). GC-MS Profiling of Borassus flabellifer Linn. Tubers. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 15(3): 793-797.'),(7647,'168','Analysis of Genetic Variation among Brahmi (Bacopa monnieri) Accessions in Andhra Pradesh','Pujasri R., Aparna D., Kalpana M., Salomisuneetha D.R., Umakrishna K. and Sekhar V. ','Analysis-of-Genetic-Variation-among-Brahmi-(Bacopa-monnieri)-Accessions-in-Andhra-Pradesh-Pujasri-R-42.pdf','',1,'The current research entitled “Analysis of genetic variation among brahmi (Bacopa monnieri) accessions in Andhra Pradesh” was carried out at Dr. Y.S.R. Horticultural University, Horticultural Research Station, Venkataramannagudem, Andhra Pradesh. Genetic variations were evaluated for 22 accessions of brahmi using 20 ISSR markers.PIC value for each ISSR primer was calculated which ranged from 0.089 to 0.992 with an average of 0.678 which showed 95% polymorphism. Average genetic similarity among twenty two accessions ranged from 0.111 to 1.000. Among the 22 accessions studied APBm-3 was found to have the least genetic distance of 0.111 with APBm-22 and showed maximum genetic divergence. The APBm-9 and APBm-12 accessions had a high genetic similarity of 1.000 and showed minimum genetic divergence. Since, genetic variability is essential for the crop improvement it is important to know genetic variation between the accessions. The findings suggested that ISSR primers can be used to identify the genetic relationships between B. monnieri accessions. It is possible to draw the conclusion that knowledge of genetic diversity and genetic similarity among brahmi accessions is essential for their breeding and conservation programmes.','Bacopa monnieri, Genetic variation, Inter simple sequence repeats (ISSR), Polymorphism','It can be concluded that ISSR markers may be an useful tool for the identification of Brahmi. The present findings can help the genetic variation analysis among different accessions of Brahmi. The accessions showed a considerable level of genetic diversity, indicating a high genetic variability in the population. The genetic variability in a gene pool is normally considered as being the major resource available for breeding programs.','-','Pujasri R., Aparna D., Kalpana M., Salomisuneetha D.R., Umakrishna K. and Sekhar V. (2023). Analysis of Genetic Variation among Brahmi (Bacopa monnieri) Accessions in Andhra Pradesh. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 15(10): 217-220.'),(7648,'168','Genetic Association Studies for Yield and Yield Attributes in BC2F2 Population of rice (Oryza sativa L.)','Sowmiya C.A., Arumugam Pillai M., Ramalingam J., Pushpam R., Shoba D. and Kumar K.K. ','Genetic-Association-Studies-for-Yield-and-Yield-Attributes-in-BC2F2-Population-of-rice-(Oryza-sativa-L.)-Sowmiya-CA-43.pdf','',1,'Yield in rice is a complex trait influenced by multiple genes and environmental factors. This complexity makes it difficult to pinpoint the exact genetic variants responsible for differences in yield. It\'s essential to carefully control and minimize environmental noise in the phenotype data. The BC2F2 population of ADT43 × RP-Bio-Patho-2 was used for the present experiment. Through genotypic correlation coefficient and path analysis, sixteen quantitative variables from 58 genotypes were evaluated in this study. The genetic correlation between two traits is quantified by the genotypic correlation coefficient. The results of the experiment showed that there is potential to concurrently enhance the number of productive tillers, the number of filled grains per panicle, and the number of grains per panicle features to raise grain yield per plant, as indicated by the significant and positive correlation between the traits. The investigation of the direct and indirect relationships between variables in a complex system is conducted using path coefficient analysis. It facilitates comprehension of the contributions of several factors to the variation in a target variable by dividing the entire effect into its direct and indirect components. Based on path analysis, the number of productive tillers per plant, number of grains per panicle, and number of filled grains per panicle had a significant positive direct impact on grain yield; thus, this characteristic needs to be given top priority during selection.','Genotypic correlation coefficient, path analysis, direct effects, indirect effects, significance','The genetic parameters of yield and qualities that contribute to yield were examined in BC2F2 populations of 58 backcross-derived rice genotypes (ADT43 X RP-Bio-Patho-2), recipient parent ADT43, and donor parent RP-Bio-Patho-2. A high degree of positive correlation and a direct positive effect of a number of productive tillers per plant, number of grains per panicle, and number of filled grains per panicle with the grain yield per plant, suggested that this yield-contributing trait could be a selection criterion for improving the yield of the rice genotypes under study. Additionally, kernel length before cooking may be useful selection criteria.','-','Sowmiya C.A., Arumugam Pillai M., Ramalingam J., Pushpam R., Shoba D. and Kumar K.K. (2023). Genetic Association Studies for Yield and Yield Attributes in BC2F2 Population of rice (Oryza sativa L.). Biological Forum – An International Journal, 15(10): 221-227.'),(7649,'168','Modified TRIzol Method for extraction of Good quality RNA from Spikes of Black Pepper (Piper nigrum L.)','Manjushri Dinkar Dongare, Swapna Alex, Soni K.B., Sindura K.P., Deepa S. Nair, Roy Stephen and Elizabeth Jose ','Modified-TRIzol-Method-for-extraction-of-Good-quality-RNA-from-Spikes-of-Black-Pepper-(Piper-nigrum-L.)-Swapna-Alex-44.pdf','',1,'Obtaining high quality RNA is a basic requirement for plant molecular biology, genetics, and physiological studies. High-quality RNA isolation from spikes of Piper nigrum L. is crucial for inflorescence specific gene studies for crop improvement. The present study includes comparison of reported CTAB, SDS, and TRIzol methods for extraction of RNA from spikes of black pepper. The quality and yield of RNA was comparatively poor in all these methods. Black pepper spikes, in particular, are rich in polyphenols and secondary metabolites, which comprise a diverse group of naturally occurring compounds contributing to the unique flavour and aroma of the plant. However, the isolation of RNA from black pepper spikes is challenging due to the presence of these compounds, which interfere with the isolation, purification, and resuspension of precipitated RNA, as well as contaminate the RNA pellets through co-precipitation, thus inhibiting downstream applications. Therefore, we have modified original Trizol protocol by inclusion of 2% PVP, 4% β Mercaptoethanol and 1% SDS to reduce the polyphenols at the initial stage of isolation itself. We also increased the incubation time and followed this with repeated chloroform extractions and ethanol washes to remove the remaining contamination. We kept the precipitation at 4ºC to improve the quality and yield of the RNA. The RNA extracted using the modified TRIzol method in the present study was intact, clear, non dispersive with good integrity and high yield (530ng/µl). There was no evidence of DNA or other contaminants in the isolated RNA (A260/A280 – 1.99; A260/A230 – 2.01). The quality was reconfirmed with gel electrophoresis and RT-PCR. Extracted RNA was successfully converted into cDNA and validated by amplification with primer for housekeeping gene β-actin. The present modified TRIzol-based protocol provides valuable insight to isolate high quality RNA from crops with high content of polyphenols, polysaccharides and other metabolites for further downstream techniques.','Polyphenols, Secondary metabolites, CTAB, SDS, TRIzol method','To conclude, total RNA extraction from spikes of black pepper using the modified TRIzol method resulted in higher yield and better quality compared to the already reported protocols using CTAB, SDS and TRIzol. The modifications helped in the efficient removal of polyphenols and polysaccharides. The good quality and quantity of the RNA extracted using the present modified method were validated using gel electrophoresis, quantitative nucleic acid detection, and RT-PCR. The modified protocol has the potential for extraction of good quality RNA from samples with high polyphenol and polysaccharide content.','-','Manjushri Dinkar Dongare, Swapna Alex, Soni K.B., Sindura K.P., Deepa S. Nair, Roy Stephen and Elizabeth Jose (2023). Modified TRIzol Method for extraction of Good quality RNA from Spikes of Black Pepper (Piper nigrum L.). Biological Forum – An International Journal, 15(10): 228-233.'),(7650,'168','Genetic variability Studies in F2 and F3 Segregating Generations for Biometrical Traits in Cowpea (Vigna unguiculata L. Walp)','Sunil R., Jiji Joseph, Santhosh Kumar A.V. and Biju S. ','Genetic-variability-Studies-in-F2--and-F3-Segregating-Generations-for-Biometrical-Traits-in-Cowpea-(Vigna-unguiculata-L.-Walp)-Sunil-R-45.pdf','',1,'Pulses play a vital and diverse role in agricultural systems and the food habit of people around the world. They are ideal crops for reducing poverty, enhancing human health and nutrition, and improving the ecosystems’ resilience. Among legumes, Cowpea is the traditional and most important one and the potential source of protein for the majority of Kerala\'s population. They also provide most of the essential amino acids. Combination breeding aims to breed crop with desired objectives. Developing cowpea genotypes with high yield combined with high protein content is challenging. The present study aimed to identify potential segregates with high yield and high protein from inter-varietal crosses of cowpea. The evaluation was carried out in Department of Plant Breeding and Genetics, Kerala Agricultural University during 2016-2017. In this research, two crosses of F1 generation were advanced to F2 and F3 segregating generations for genetic variability studies isolate good segregates with high seed yield coupled with protein content. Between the two crosses studied, Anaswara × PKB 4 registered superior per se performance in both F2 and F3 generations for seed yield and its related attributes such as plant height, pod weight and number of seeds per pod. Anaswara × PKB 6 exhibited better performance for seed protein content in the segregating generations. The F2 and F3 generations of Anaswara × PKB 6 and Anaswara × PKB 4 showed moderate PCV, GCV coupled with high heritability and high genetic advance as percentage of mean for seed yield and seed protein content indicating possibility of genetic improvement in succeeding generations of the crop. Segregants with high yield and high protein content were identified and forwarded to next generations. This helps in developing a novel cowpea genotypes with high yield and high protein quality.','Cowpea, Segregating generations, PCV, GCV, Heritability, Genetic advance','Breeding of pulses for high yield and nutritionally stable is an alarming need to meet out the outbreak of Indian population. The results of present study revealed that high range of variability for quantitative traits exist in the early segregating generations, providing a better scope for improving the traits of breeder\'s interest. The PCV and GCV values were high to medium for most of the traits indicate that selection will be effective in early segregating generations to better extent. High heritability values for quantitative traits indicate inheritance of the genes in early segregating generations. Traits with high heritability coupled with high genetic advance over mean reveals additive gene action and effective for phenotypic selection. Thus, the investigation provides understanding of the genetic basis of inheritance of quantitative trait in early segregating generations of cowpea, which may be useful in future breeding programmes.','-','Sunil R., Jiji Joseph, Santhosh Kumar A.V. and Biju S. (2023). Genetic variability Studies in F2 and F3 Segregating Generations for Biometrical Traits in Cowpea (Vigna unguiculata L. walp). Biological Forum – An International Journal, 15(10): 234-238.'),(7651,'157','Effect of industrial effluents on cytomorphological behaviour of medicinal plants Withania somnifera Dunal and Achyranthes aspera Linn','Manendra Pratap Singh and Ashok Kumar Verma','Effect-of-industrial-effluents-on-cytomorphological-behaviour-of-medicinal-plants-Withania-somnifera-Dunal-and-Achyranthes-aspera-Linn-Manendra-Pratap-Singh-260.pdf','',1,'Plants\' capacity to accumulate metals is strongly influenced by the concentration of those metals in the soil. Physiological absorption, physicochemical desorption, and toxicodynamic redistribution are the three stages of the dynamic three-step process known as \"availability\". The soil\'s pH is the most influential factor in distributing metals between the solid phase and the soil solution. Worldwide, pollution and hazardous substance exposure are becoming more problematic. There is a serious threat to human health, plant life, and animal life due to the careless agricultural and industrial usage and disposal of hazardous compounds. Vehicle emissions, industrial smoke, and the leaching of chemical waste into groundwater and soil all contribute to the accumulation of heavy metals in the environment. The chemical makeup of industrial wastewater varies greatly. Determining which contaminants are present in effluents and how much of each is difficult and time-consuming. Withania somnifera Dunal and Achyranthes aspera linn, both found in water near an Indian industrial effluent site, have accumulated various heavy metals, contributing to the problem.','Environmental pollution, heavy metal stress, BOD values, COD values','The current investigation shows that the effluent from all sectors negatively impacts plant development owing to toxicity after heavy metal build-up. The wastewater from these factories should not be utilised for irrigation under any circumstances. Furthermore, effluents should be appropriately treated or reused for being disposed of and medicinal plants growing in the area of these companies should not be utilised to create medicines.','-','Manendra Pratap Singh and Ashok Kumar Verma (2023). Effect of industrial effluents on cytomorphological behaviour of medicinal plants Withania somnifera Dunal and Achyranthes aspera Linn. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 15(5): 1741-1746.'),(7652,'148','Effect of Plant Growth Regulators on Physico-Chemical Properties of Sapota (Manilkara zapota L.) cv. Kalipatti','Jannila Praveena, S.N. Dash, Kabita Sethi, R.K. Panda and S.C. Swain','Effect-of-Plant-Growth-Regulators-on-Physico-Chemical-Properties-of-Sapota-(Manilkara-zapota-L.)-cv.-Kalipatti-Jannila-Praveena-117.pdf','',1,'A field experiment was conducted at Horticultural Research Station, Odisha University of Agriculture and Technology, Bhubaneswar during 2020-2022. The experiment was carried out with ten treatments involving different concentrations of plant growth regulators viz., Brassinolide (0.5 ppm and 1.5 ppm), Salicylic acid (150 ppm and 300 ppm), NAA (150 ppm), and their combinations were embedded in Randomized Block Design with three replications. Effect of plant growth regulators has significant effect on physio-chemical properties of sapota in relation to Total Soluble Solid, titratable acidity, reducing sugar, total sugars and ascorbic content of fruits. Among all Brassinolide alone 1.5 ppm and in combination with NAA 150 ppm has visible effect in increasing physio-chemical properties of sapota fruit. ','Sapota, Physio-chemical, NAA, SA, Brassinolide','Application of plant growth regulators has significantly promoted the physio-chemical properties of sapota in relation to total soluble solid (TSS), Acidity, Total sugars, reducing sugars and ascorbic content of fruits. Brassinolide alone 1.5 ppm and in combination with NAA 150 ppm has visible effect in increasing physio-chemical properties of sapota fruit. As the application of brassinolide stimulate the source sink relationship via improving the mobilization and accumulation pf assimilates to the growing fruits, which ultimately improves the physiochemical properties of fruits. ','-','Jannila Praveena, S.N. Dash, Kabita Sethi, R.K. Panda and S.C. Swain (2023). Effect of Plant Growth Regulators on Physico-Chemical Properties of Sapota (Manilkara zapota L.) cv. Kalipatti. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 15(1): 714-719.'),(7653,'168','Effect of different Pre-emergence Herbicides on Weed Population, Growth, and Yield-attributing Traits of Vegetable Pea (Pisum sativum L.)','Akash Kamar Dahayat, B.P. Bisen, Niranjan Saryam and Sachin Nagre ','Effect-of-different-Pre-emergence-Herbicides-on-Weed-Population-Growth-and-Yield-attributing-Traits-of-Vegetable-Pea-(Pisum-sativum-L.)-Niranjan-Saryam-46.pdf','',1,'To determine the impact of pre-emergence herbicides on the weed population, growth, and yield of garden pea cv. Kashi Nandini, a field experiment was carried out during the Rabi season of 2019–20 at the Horticulture Complex, Maharajpur, Department of Horticulture, J.N.K.V.V. Jabalpur (M.P.). The ten treatments, viz. T1 (Diquat @ 2500 ml/ha), T2 (Diquat @ 3500 ml/ha), T3 (Diquat @ 6000 ml/ha), T4 (Diquat @ 12000 ml/ha), T5 (Paraquat dichloride @ 2000 ml/ha), T6 (Pendimethalin @ 750 ml/ha), T7 (Oxyfluorfen @ 100 ml/ha), T8 (Pendimethalin 30% EC + Imazethapyr 2% EC @ 750+50 ml/ha), T9 (two hand weeding at 20 and 40 DAS) and T10 (Control). The herbicide T7 (oxyfluorfen at 100 ml/ha) was found to be superior to all other herbicides. The weed count of species is a major challenge of this study. The weed count of species contributes a major role in the weed population and yield estimate of garden peas.','Pre-emergence herbicides, weed population, growth and yield attributes','Based on the results of the study, it is concluded that minimum weed density/m2 were obtained in weed free T9 (two hand weeding at 20 and 40 DAS) followed by Oxyfluorfen @ 100 ml/ha. Among the all pre-emergence application of herbicides, application of T7 (Oxyfluorfen @ 100 ml/ha) was most effective for control of weeds in vegetable pea but some weed species like Parthenium hysterophorus were suppressed at 20 DAS by Diquat @ 6000 ml/ha and Diquat @ 12000ml/ha. Performance of control treatment was recorded non effective in growth and yield of pea at any stage of crop duration. T7 (Oxyfluorfen @ 100ml/ha) was found superior in rest of all other herbicides.','-','Akash Kamar Dahayat, B.P. Bisen, Niranjan Saryam and Sachin Nagre (2023). Effect of different Pre-emergence Herbicides on Weed Population, Growth, and Yield-attributing Traits of Vegetable Pea (Pisum sativum L.). Biological Forum – An International Journal, 15(10): 239-242.'),(7654,'165','Status of Potato Viruses and Temporal Dynamics of Potato Viral Diseases in Bhagalpur District of Bihar','Surpati Anand, Mohammad Ansar and Shatrudhan Kumar Choudhary ','Status-of-Potato-Viruses-and-Temporal-Dynamics-of-Potato-Viral-Diseases-in-Bhagalpur-District-of-Bihar-Surpati-Anand-183.pdf','',1,'The viral diseases are a major threats in potato cultivations and mostly spread by vectors. Vectors population highly influenced by the weather parameters. So, the study of viral diseases along with temporal dynamics of vector population give a clear understanding of epidemiology of viral diseases. Therefore, research was conducted to evaluate the potato virus incidence with relation to vector population and weather parameter in Bhagalpur district. In this survey mosaic, leaf roll and leaf curl diseases were commonly found to be infecting potato crop. The highest incidence of leaf roll (16.9 %), mosaic (12.4 %) and curl (8.9 %) were recorded at Kahalgaon block. Among the observed viral diseases recorded in the district, maximum incidence was found for leaf roll diseases. In order to assess the temporal dynamic of potato viral diseases, periodic observation of disease was recorded along with vector population. An exponential increase of mosaic was recorded between first to last week of January. Maximum increment of leaf roll was observed during last week of December to first week of February. Moreover, a positive correlation was recorded between aphid population with mosaic and leaf roll diseases. The multiple regression analysis showed that the diseases were influenced by all the observed weather variables and vectors e.g., PLRV R2 0.83, mosaic R2 = 0.85 and leaf curl R2 = 0.09. The overall findings of the present study will be helpful to develop disease management module. Government agencies should impose domestic quarantine to potato viruses particularly tuber borne virus in state. The information generated under regression analysis would be helpful to understand the epidemiology of disease.','Potato virus, Incidence, PLRV, Vector population, Epidemiology','In this study survey as well as epidemiology was done. In this survey mosaic, leaf roll and leaf curl were commonly found to be infecting potato crop. The highest incidence of leaf roll was observed in survey area. Field experiment showed susceptibility of KufriJyoti to PLRV and Sagar Jamal to mosaic and leaf curl diseases. The study of temporal dynamic exhibits an exponential increase of mosaic disease between first to last week of January. Maximum increment of leaf roll was observed during last week of December to first week of February. Moreover, a positive correlation was recorded between aphid and mosaic; leaf roll diseases. The multiple regression analysis showed the influenced of all weather variables and vectors in disease development. The overall findings of the present study would be helpful to understand the disease epidemiology and development of suitable management strategies.','-','Surpati Anand, Mohammad Ansar and Shatrudhan Kumar Choudhary (2023). Status of Potato Viruses and Temporal Dynamics of Potato Viral Diseases in Bhagalpur District of Bihar. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 15(9): 1065-1069.'),(7655,'168','Studies on Effect of Liquid Bio fertilizers on the yield and quality of Guava (Psidium guajava L.) cv. Allahabad Safeda under Central Telangana Zone','Kaladhar Babu K., Bhasker K. and Rajkumar M. ','Studies-on-Effect-of-Liquid-Bio-fertilizers-on-the-yield-and-quality-of-Guava-(Psidium-guajava-L.)-cv.-Allahabad-Safeda-under-Central-Telangana-Zone-Bhasker-K-47.pdf','',1,'A study was conducted with the aim to study the effect of liquid biofertilizers on the fruit yield and quality of Guava with the growing demand for safe and high-quality fruits, as well as the growing emphasis on organic farming, the current study is beneficial for long-term production of guava. A Randomized Block Design with eight treatments and three replications was used to carry out the investigation. The experiment was carried out at the hamlet of Madhavapuram, Kuravi Mandal, Mahabubabad district, Telangana State as a on farm trial from 2019-20 to 2020-21 on 5 years old plants spaced 5.0 × 5.0 m apart. There were significant differences were observed among all the treatments under study. From the present investigation, it is found that the treatment T8 (50% RDF + Liquid Azotobacter @ 10 ml/lit + Liquid PSB @ 10 ml/lit + Liquid KSB @ 10 ml/lit) was found to be best in terms of maximum number of fruits per plant (256), fruit weight (165.50 g) and fruit yield per plant (18.42 kg). Among all treatments, T4 (100% N + Zero P2O5 + 100% K2O + Liquid PSB @ 10 ml/lit) recorded the highest TSS (15.62 %), followed by T7 (100% N + 100% P2O5 + 50% K2O + Liquid KSB @ 10 ml/lit) (11.60 %). The use of these liquid biofertilizers in conjunction with inorganic fertilizers increases biological activity, minimize fertilizer input, improves the supply of nutritional content to the plant in appropriate proportions and boost the fruit yield and quality of guava.','Liquid PSB, Liquid KSB, Liquid Azotobacter, TSS','It is concluded that the treatment T8 (50% RDF + Liquid Azotobacter @ 10 ml/lit + Liquid PSB @ 10 ml/lit + Liquid KSB @ 10 ml/lit) per tree was found to be best in terms of maximum Number of Fruits per plant (256), Fruit Weight (165.50 g) and Fruit Yield per plant (18.42 kg) while the treatment T4 (100% N + Zero P2O5 + 100% K2O + Liquid PSB @ 10 ml/lit) recorded the highest TSS (15.62 %).','-','Kaladhar Babu K., Bhasker K. and Rajkumar M. (2023). Studies on Effect of Liquid Bio fertilizers on the yield and quality of Guava (Psidium guajava L.) cv. Allahabad Safeda under Central Telangana Zone. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 15(10): 243-246.'),(7656,'165','Effect of Applied Phosphorus, Sulphur and Bio-fertilizers on Growth and Yield of Indian Mustard (Brassica juncea L.) in Agri-horti System','Kumar A., Singh J.K., Choudhary S.K. and Anand S.','Effect-of-Applied-Phosphorus-Sulphur-and-Bio-fertilizers-on-Growth-and-Yield-of-Indian-Mustard-(Brassica-juncea-L.)-in-Agri-horti-System-Kumar-A-184.pdf','',1,'The rising population increases demand for vegetable oil day by day especially in developing countries like India. But the cultivable lands are decreasing gradually, which needs a modified farming system to fulfil the daily requirement of the people. To overcoming this situation the agroforestry seems to be a good alternative. Therefore, present investigation entitled “Effect of applied phosphorus, sulphur and bio-fertilizers on growth and yield of Indian mustard (Brassica juncea L.) in agri-horti system” was studied during Rabi season, 2021-22 at Agricultural Research Farm, R.G.S.C. (BHU), Barakachha, Mirzapur (U.P.). The field experiment was laid out in Factorial Randomized Block Design with six treatments in Indian mustard variety ‘JD-6’ (Pusa Mahak) under 13 years old stone apple based agri-horti system with three replication. The results exhibited that the combined application of 50, 25 kg PS ha-1, significantly increased yield and yield attributing characters viz., plant height, number of primary branches per plant and length of siliquae. It also significantly improved the oil content and oil yield. Moreover, the use of PSB and SDB improved all yield contributing characters, such as number of siliquae per plant, number of seed per siliquae and the seed weight, as compared to control. However, seed inoculation with SDB was achieved the maximum yield (772 kg ha-1) as compared with PSB and control. The maximum oil contain and oil yield of Indian mustard were recorded for the application of seed inoculation with SDB under stone apple based agri-horti system.','Agri-horti system, Bio-fertilizer, Indian mustard, Phosphorus, Sulphur','The present investigation suggest that the application of phosphorus, sulphur and bio-fertilizers (PSB and SDB) significantly increases the yield and yield attributing traits in Indian mustard variety ‘JD 6’ grown under the wood apple based agri-horti system of Vindhyan region of Mirzapur. It also significantly improve the oil content and oil yield. Since this issue only contains the results of a one-year experiment, it is advised that the experiment be repeated for another two or three years in order to arrive at a reliable conclusion.','-','Kumar A., Singh J.K., Choudhary S.K. and Anand S. (2023). Effect of Applied Phosphorus, Sulphur and Bio-fertilizers on Growth and Yield of Indian Mustard (Brassica juncea L.) in Agri-horti System. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 15(9): 1071-1073.'),(7657,'165','Effect of different Media, pH Levels and Temperature on Growth and Sporulation of Microdochium sorghi causing Zonate Leaf Spot of Sorghum','Banothu Chandrashekar, Yogendra Singh, B.K. Namriboi, Senthil Kumar S. and Marjit Chandam','Effect-of-different-Media,-pH-Levels-and-Temperature-on-Growth-and-Sporulation-of-Microdochium-sorghi-causing-Zonate-Leaf-Spot-of-Sorghum-Banothu-Chandrashekar-185.pdf','',1,'Sorghum (Sorghum bicolor L. Moench) is the 5th major cereal crop, used as a food, feed, fiber, and bioenergy production. Among the diseases affecting sorghum, Zonate leaf spot caused by Microdochium sorghi has been considered a minor issue in recent decades. However, due to the impact of climate change, this pathogen has begun to cause economic damage to both forage and grain sorghum crops. To develop effective management strategies against this disease, it is crucial to understand the cultural characteristics of the pathogen and how it responds to various physiological and temperature conditions. This study investigates the in vitro effects of different culture media, pH levels, and temperature on the mycelial growth and sporulation of M. sorghi. Among the 10culture media examined, the pathogen displayed the highest mycelial growth on Oat Meal Agar (with a diameter of 90mm), followed by Potato Dextrose Agar (85.3 mm), Rye Agar Type-A (82.1 mm), and Corn Meal Agar (77.3 mm) while the least growth was observed on L- Asparagine Media (31.6mm). Furthermore, experiments were conducted using Oat Meal Agar to evaluate the influence of different temperature (15°C, 20°C, 25°C and 30°C) and pH levels (5.0, 5.5, 6.0, 6.5, 7.0, 7.5 and 8.0). The most optimum condition for promoting M. sorghi growth (90mm) were identified at pH 6.5 and pH 7.0 both at temperature 30°C. Notably, these conditions were also associated with a significant enhancement in sporulation.','Media, Microdochium sorghi, pH, Sorghum, Sporulation, Temperature, Zonate','Microdochium sorghi isolated from diseased sorghum leaves exhibited varying growth responses to different culture media, pH levels and temperature. Oat Meal Agar (OMA) emerged as the most suitable medium for M. sorghi growth, yielding a substantial colony diameter of 90.0 mm. Remarkably, OMA also provided the most conducive conditions for sporulation. Furthermore, experiments on OMA highlighted that pH levels of 6.0 and 6.5, combined with a temperature of 30°C, were optimal for achieving a maximum colony diameter of 90.0 mm. Deviations from this pH range with extreme acidity and alkalinity, as well as temperatures below 30°C were unfavorable for M. sorghi growth and sporulation. These findings will provide valuable insights into the culturing and management of M. sorghi.','-','Banothu Chandrashekar, Yogendra Singh, B.K. Namriboi, Senthil Kumar S. and Marjit Chandam (2023). Effect of different Media, pH Levels and Temperature on Growth and Sporulation of Microdochium sorghi causing Zonate Leaf Spot of Sorghum. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 15(9): 1074-1077.'),(7658,'168','Study on the Performance of PTO Power of Different Tractor Models for Three Decades','Sachin Gajendra, Hemant Verma, K.B. Tiwari and R. Paliwal ','Study-on-the-Performance-of-PTO-Power-of-Different-Tractor-Models-for-Three-Decades-Sachin-Gajendra-48.pdf','',1,'Improvement in Indian agricultural tractor performance over the three decades were analyzed using the data from 25 diesel tractors tested at the Central Farm Machinery Training and Testing tractor test laboratory from 1987 to 2017. The five most popular and well established tractor manufacturer’s models of Indian origin were taken for the study. These tractor models selected on the basis of availability on Indian farms and their popularity among the farmers. These models of five manufacturers were coded as S, EI, T, M and ES for the study purpose. This study was based on the basis of test procedure of PTO power of general purpose agricultural tractors in the range of 30-35 hp. After the study, it was observed that the average maximum PTO power was increased by 9.28, 6.53, 15.83, 11.62 and 13.82 % for the models S, EI, T, M and ES, respectively, as compared with initial values.','PTO power, Tractor, Tractor performance\r\n','The maximum PTO power was improved for the model T from 22.1 to 25.6 kW i.e. 15.83%. It was observed that as the equivalent crankshaft torque was improved and that caused the maximum PTO power to increase. The maximum PTO power was observed 25.6 kW for model T5 during the year 2016 as compared to the other tractors in last three decades. The minimum PTO power was observed 19.5 kW for model T3 during the year 2000 as compared to other tractors in the three decades, i.e., 1987 to 2017.','-','Sachin Gajendra, Hemant Verma, K.B. Tiwari and R. Paliwal (2023). Study on the Performance of PTO Power of Different Tractor Models for Three Decades. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 15(10): 247-249.'),(7659,'168','Effectualness of Biostimulants on Annual Chrysanthemum (Chrysanthemum coronarium L.) Flowering, Quality and Yield','Vyshnavi D.J., Chandrashekar S.Y., Hemla Naik, B., Hanumantharaya L. and Ganapathi M. ','Effectualness-of-Biostimulants-on-Annual-Chrysanthemum-(Chrysanthemum-coronarium-L.)-Flowering,-Quality-and-Yield-Chandrashekar-SY-49.pdf','',1,'Bio stimulants are the organic materials that promote the plant growth when applied in minute quantities and are also referred as metabolic enhancers. They have been emerged as a supplement to mineral fertilizers and hold a promise to improve the yield as well as quality of the crop. Keeping in view, the need and importance of biostimulants, an experiment was carried out at the Experimental block of Floriculture and Landscape Architecture, College of Horticulture, Mudigere, Keladi Shivappa Nayaka University of Agricultural and Horticultural Sciences, Iruvakki, Shivamogga in the year 2022- 2023, to investigate the impact of biostimulants on the flowering, quality, and yield of annual chrysanthemum (Chrysanthemum coronarium L.), with ten treatments viz., T1- Humic acid @ 0.4%, T2- Humic acid @ 0.6%, T3- Humic acid @ 0.8%, T4- Biovita @ 0.4%, T5- Biovita @ 0.6%, T6- Biovita @ 0.8%, T7- Biozyme @ 0.4%, T8- Biozyme @ 0.6%, T9- Biozyme @ 0.8% and T10- Control (water). Biostimulants were sprayed thrice (sprayed at 20, 40, and 60 days after transplanting). In randomized complete block design (RCBD), each treatment was duplicated three times. Numerous flowering, quality, and yield indicators were observed. Among all the treatments Biovita @ 0.6% showed earliness in the flower bud initiation (35.66 days), first flowering (40.55 days), 50 per cent flowering (55.35 days) and also, registered the maximum duration of flowering (58.66 days), shelf life (3.66 days), stalk length (15.87 cm), number of flowers per plant (189.26), flower yield per plant (622.66 g), flower yield per plot (22.42 kg) and flower yield per hectare (69.18 tons). However, Biozyme @ 0.8% showed the maximum blossom diameter (6.19 cm), number of petals (72.28), and flower weight (3.44 g). Meanwhile the minimum values for all the parameters were recorded in the control. Thereby, Biovita @ 0.6% showed potential for improving annual chrysanthemum flowering, quality, and yield. ','Annual chrysanthemum, biostimulants, flowering, quality, yield','Based on the findings of the current study, it can be said that applying Biovita at a rate of 0.6% significantly increased blooming, quality, and yield under open-field conditions. Therefore, the Biovita treatment at 0.6% may be suggested for annual chrysanthemum commercial production.','-','Vyshnavi D.J., Chandrashekar S.Y., Hemla Naik, B., Hanumantharaya L. and Ganapathi M. (2023). Effectualness of Biostimulants on Annual Chrysanthemum (Chrysanthemum coronarium L.) Flowering, Quality and Yield. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 15(10): 250-254.'),(7660,'168','A Review on A Computer Vision System for Automatic Crop-Weed Detection','Madhusudan B.S., Ramineni Harsha Nag, Prajwal R., Aruna T.N. and Adarsha Gopala Krishna Bhat ','A-Review-on-A-Computer-Vision-System-for-Automatic-Crop-Weed-Detection-Madhusudan-BS-50.pdf','',1,'Weed control is a significant factor that could affect crop productivity. With the advancement in technology, computer vision becomes one of the meticulous methods for instantaneously detecting crop-weeds and providing vital data for spot-specific weed supervision. Computer vision is a technology that employs a computer and a camera, rather than relying on the sensory visuals of an individual, to distinguish, trace, and evaluate the target for a better picture through image processing. This review summarizes the advances and challenges in spot-specific crop-weed detection over the past four years using computer vision technology. The summary of this study discusses conventional methods in weed management, which aid in the development of automatic crop-weed detection for on-field real-time weed control. There are still major challenges for crop-weed classification, such as the overlapping of crop plant foliage and varying illumination levels, leading to the failure of detection algorithms. To achieve universal acceptance of the technology, it is necessary to establish a broader crop dataset. In the upcoming days, through thorough investigation, computer vision techniques will be better applied in autonomous crop-weed detection. With the advancements in computer vision technology, the efficacy and accuracy of crop-weed detection are further enhanced. It also focuses on providing better understanding to laymen for decision support, which aids in the rapid growth of agricultural automation.','Image Processing, spot-specific weed supervision, Sensory Visuals, Overlapping, Decision Support','The review provides an overview of the application of computer vision technology in the field of automatic crop-weed detection. Specifically, the paper focuses on summarizing studies that highlight both the advances and challenges in crop-weed segregation for spot-specific weed supervision over the past four years. From the review, it can be concluded that previous work has significantly contributed to the advancement of automatic crop-weed detection, offering the benefits of affordability, high accuracy, and efficiency. However, considering the current scenario, we must also acknowledge the challenges that computer vision technology will encounter in crop-weed detection.\r\nFirstly, the task of crop-weed classification in complex scenarios, where crop plant vegetation overlaps and is obstructed by weeds, poses an extremely challenging problem that needs to be addressed promptly. Secondly, variations in illumination levels lead to differences in colors, shadows, noise levels, saturation, reflection, and glare in the same scene, causing detection and segmentation algorithms to fail. Therefore, the need for different color space models to adapt to varying illumination levels is essential. Lastly, in order to achieve universal acceptance of this technology, it is crucial to establish large-scale datasets.\r\nIn light of the above discussion, it can be inferred that computer vision technology will find more effective applications in autonomous crop-weed detection in the future. With the availability of large-scale datasets, computer vision technology is likely to gain universal acceptance in the field of crop-weed detection. In the upcoming days, as computer vision technology continues to advance, it will enhance the efficacy and accuracy of crop-weed detection, providing valuable insights to agriculturalists for decision support and contributing to the rapid growth of agricultural automation.\r\n','-','Madhusudan B.S., Ramineni Harsha Nag, Prajwal R., Aruna T.N. and Adarsha Gopala Krishna Bhat (2023). A Review on A Computer Vision System for Automatic Crop-Weed Detection. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 15(10): 255-262.'),(7661,'168','Evaluating the Nutritional and Sensory Properties of Baked Goods Utilizing Bio-fortified Pearl Millet and Underutilized Carrot Leaf Powder','Rajni, Nirav Umeshbhai Joshi, Reema Devi, Neha, Raveena and Charan Singh ','Evaluating-the-Nutritional-and-Sensory-Properties-of-Baked-Goods-Utilizing-Bio-fortified-Pearl-Millet-and-Underutilized-Carrot-Leaf-Powder-Neha-51.pdf','',1,'The traditional bakery industry, integral to the food processing sector, faces the challenge of meeting the demands of a growing global population for fresh, convenient, and nutritious products. Addressing malnutrition, particularly prevalent in developing nations, requires innovative strategies such as bio-fortification. This research explores the impact of incorporating bio-fortified pearl millet and carrot leaf powders (CLP) as nutritional additives in bun formulations. Powdered carrot leaves (CLP) were incorporated into pearl millet in distinct proportions of 5%, 10%, 15%, and 20%, denoted as T1, T2, T3, and T4, respectively. The results of the evaluation revealed that all of the developed buns were considered acceptable by the judges, except for T4 buns, which were categorized as falling within the range of \"neither like nor dislike\". The nutritional assessment revealed that buns with 20% CLP exhibited significantly higher nutritional content, followed by T3, T2, and T1. These findings underscore the transformative potential of leaf powders in fortifying bakery products, offering a promising avenue to enhance food security and nutrition on a global scale.','Pearl Millet, Bun, Carrot Leaf Powder (CLP), Bakery, Sensory and Nutritional Evaluation','In accordance with research findings, carrot leaves, akin to their roots, possess a substantial nutrient profile. When integrated with bio-fortified pearl millet, they augment the nutritional value of the final product. However, the sensory evaluation of the buns revealed a notable decrease in acceptability with the inclusion of carrot leaves powder, particularly evident in T4 buns fortified at a 20 percent level. Upon scrutinizing the nutritional composition, buns supplemented with 20 percent carrot leaves powder displayed the highest nutrient contents compared to the control bun. Conversely, T1 buns exhibited the minimum levels of both crude protein and crude fibre content when compared to T4 buns. Given the abundant presence of calcium (Ca), zinc (Zn), iron (Fe), and β-carotene in carrot leaves powder, it emerges as a promising option for fortifying various bakery products. Nevertheless, further studies are imperative to assess the bioavailability of these minerals in bakery products for future considerations.','-','Rajni, Nirav Umeshbhai Joshi, Reema Devi, Neha, Raveena and Charan Singh (2023). Evaluating the Nutritional and Sensory Properties of Baked Goods Utilizing Bio-fortified Pearl Millet and Underutilized Carrot Leaf Powder. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 15(10): 263-267.'),(7662,'168','Development and Nutritional Evaluation of Maize Chapattis Supplemented with Psyllium Husk','Neha, Veenu Sangwan, Rajni, Reema Devi, Nirav Umeshbhai Joshi and Charan Singh','Development-and-Nutritional-Evaluation-of-Maize-Chapattis-Supplemented-with-Psyllium-Husk-Rajni-52.pdf','',1,'The increasing prevalence of obesity and overweight, recognized as major public health concerns, has prompted various interventions for their prevention and management. Dietary modifications have shown promise in combating these issues, particularly through increased fibre consumption. Psyllium, derived from Plantago ovata seeds, is a concentrated source of soluble fibre, known for its low susceptibility to fermentation and various health benefits. This paper explores the potential of psyllium supplementation in promoting weight management and overall health. The study focuses on incorporating psyllium husk into maize chapattis and evaluates the nutritional and sensory aspects of the resulting products. Results show that psyllium-enriched chapattis have increased moisture content, dietary fibre and reduced protein, fat and total carbohydrate levels. Sensory evaluation indicates that lower psyllium concentrations result in more favourable attributes. This research sheds light on the potential of psyllium as a functional ingredient in food products, offering health benefits and enhancing dietary fibre intake.','Psyllium, Husk, Chapatti, Maize, Fibre, Sensory','In conclusion, the incorporation of psyllium husk into maize chapattis has led to several notable changes in their proximate composition. The moisture content of the chapattis significantly increased with higher concentrations of psyllium husk, likely due to the hygroscopic nature of psyllium fibres, which enhanced water retention. There was a significant reduction in true protein in chapattis with increasing psyllium husk concentration. Total fat content decreased as well, likely due to changes in the flour formulation. The total ash content exhibited a slight increase with higher psyllium husk concentration, while crude fibre content showed a significant increase, especially in chapattis with 20 g/100g psyllium husk. Total carbohydrate content decreased as psyllium husk concentration increased, possibly due to the reduction of wheat flour in the formulation. Furthermore, the total dietary fibre content notably increased with the addition of psyllium husk, with the highest levels observed in Type 4 chapattis. Both soluble and insoluble dietary fibre content increased as well, indicating the potential health benefits of psyllium-enriched chapattis. In terms of sensory evaluation, as the concentration of psyllium husk increased, the scores for color, appearance, aroma, texture, taste, and overall acceptability decreased. Type 1 chapattis were found to be the most likeable among the different treatments, suggesting that moderate psyllium husk incorporation maintains the sensory attributes of chapattis. Overall, this study highlights the potential of psyllium husk as a functional ingredient to enhance dietary fibre content in chapattis. While the nutritional composition was affected by psyllium husk, sensory attributes may need to be considered when determining the optimal level of psyllium husk for consumer acceptance. These findings provide insights for the development of healthier and more nutritious food products.','-','Neha, Veenu Sangwan, Rajni, Reema Devi, Nirav Umeshbhai Joshi and Charan Singh (2023). Development and Nutritional Evaluation of Maize Chapattis Supplemented with Psyllium Husk. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 15(10): 268-273.'),(7663,'168','Eco Friendly Management of Fusarium Wilt of Chickpea with Botanicals and Bio Agents','Mahesh Kumar, Mukesh Kumar Dhaked, Munesh Kumar, Balveer Singh and Balkrishna Namdeo','Eco-Friendly-Management-of-Fusarium-Wilt-of-Chickpea-with-Botanicals-and-Bio-Agents-Mahesh-Kumar-53.pdf','',1,'The field experiment to determine “Eco-friendly management of Fusarium wilt of chickpea caused by Fusarium oxysporium f.sp. (Ciceri arietinum L.) in Vindhyan Plateau of Madhya Pradesh” during ravi season in the year 2020-21 to 2021-22 was conducted at the Agricultural Research Center, Ravindranath Tagore University, Raisen, Madhya Pradesh. The present investigation tests were carried out for the management of fusarium wilt using botanicals and bio-agent, against fusarium wilt and readings were taken growth parameters, yield attributes, yield and the percentage of disease incidence in chickpea. Among the treatments, soil application with Trichoderma harzianum @ 5g/kg seed + 2 foliar spray with datura leaf extract 10 % were found most effective in the percentage of disease control in chickpea. Followed by Trichoderma viride @ 5g/kg seed + 2 foliar spray with garlic extract 10 % as compared to control. The maximum plant height, dry shoot weight, dry root weight and yield were found in application of Trichoderma harzianum @ 5g/kg seed + 2 foliar spray with datura leaf extract 10 %. Thus, fusarium wilt could be managed by the integrated of various approach like, application of botanicals sources and bio-agent.','Bio-agents, botanicals, chickpea, Fusarium oxysporum, yield.','The present study, it were found that bio- agent Trichoderma viride soil application were most effective against fusarium wilt, which causes wilt disease in chickpea. By using bio-agent and organic amendment, we can avoid use of harmful fungicides and prevent development of resistance in pathogen. Results of the present study was found to be significantly effective under Raisen agro-climatic conditions. It may vary with region and climatic conditions, therefore for validation of the results more such trials should be carried out in future.','-','Mahesh Kumar, Mukesh Kumar Dhaked, Munesh Kumar, Balveer Singh and Balkrishna Namdeo (2023). Eco Friendly Management of Fusarium Wilt of Chickpea with Botanicals and Bio Agents. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 15(10): 274-277.'),(7664,'168','Effect of IBA and Bio-Inoculants on Fig (Ficus carica L.) Hard Wood Cutting for Growth and Success','Korche Pushpa, C.S. Pandey, Homeshvari, Pooja Jatav and Megha Patidar','Effect-of-IBA-and-Bio-Inoculants-on-Fig-(Ficus-carica-L.)-Hard-Wood-Cutting-for-Growth-and-Success-Pushpa-Korche-54.pdf','',1,'An experiment entitled ‘‘Effect of IBA and Bio-Inoculants on Fig (Ficus carica L.) Hard Wood Cutting for Growth and Success’’ was carried out at Fruit Research Station, Imaliya, Department of Horticulture, JNKVV, Jabalpur between the period January 2022 to April 2022 in a Factorial Completely Randomized Design with three replications. The experiment was comprised of two factors - 5 levels of IBA i.e., (C1) IBA 0 ppm (Control), (C2) IBA 500 ppm, (C3) IBA 1000 ppm, (C4) IBA 1500 ppm, (C5) IBA 2000 ppm and Four types of growing media i.e., (M1) Normal soil, (M2) Normal soil + PSB, (M3) Normal soil + VAM and (M4) Normal soil + PSB + VAM. The result revealed that among the various treatment combinations, the hard wood cuttings treated with 2000 ppm IBA and planted in growing media having Normal soil + PSB + VAM (C5M4) proved superior with respect to minimum days taken to start sprouting (11.17 days), maximum - number of sprouts/cutting (1.95 and 4.65), number of sprouted cutting/treatment (26.13 and 27.53) at 30 and 60 DAP., shoot length (4.54, 7.37 and 16.44 cm), shoot diameter (2.58, 4.94 and 6.47 mm), number of leaves (4.86, 8.28 and 10.43), length of leaves (4.75, 10.64 and 15.00 cm), width of leaves (4.70, 9.18 and 14.29 cm) at 30, 60 and 90 DAP, success percent of cutting (84.19 and 82.22 %)at 30 and 60 DAP, fresh weight of shoot (34.80 g), dry weight of shoot (25.40 g) at 90 DAP. leaf area index (9.54 & 20.16) at 60 and 90 DAP, leaf area duration (7142.84) at 90 DAP, leaf chlorophyll content index (54.73) at 90 DAP, light transmission ratio (55.13) at 90 DAP.','Fig (Ficus Carica), IBA, PSB, VAM, growth, hard wood cutting','Based on the findings of the present investigation, it is concluded that the IBA level IBA 2000 ppm (C5) proved best over the other IBA levels which significantly improved the growth and success of Fig Hard wood cutting. Among the bio-inoculants enriched growing media, the media containing Normal soil + PSB + VAM(M4) significantly performed better over the other bio-inoculants enriched growing media by improving the growth and success of Fig Hard wood cuttings. Among the different treatment combinations, IBA 2000 ppm + Normal soil + PSB + VAM (C5M4) showed superiority over rest of the treatment combinations with respect to growth and success of Fig hard wood cuttings.','-','Korche Pushpa, C.S. Pandey, Homeshvari, Pooja Jatav and Megha Patidar (2023). Effect of IBA and Bio-Inoculants on Fig (Ficus carica L.) Hard Wood Cutting for Growth and Success. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 15(10): 278-285.'),(7665,'168','Effect of Weed Management Practices on Weed Control Efficiency in Soybean and Pigeonpea Intercropping System','Monika Chouhan, M.D. Vyas, Amit Kumar Jha, Nirmal Choudhary, Pramod Kumar and Bhumika Singh Lodhi ','Effect-of-Weed-Management-Practices-on-Weed-Control-Efficiency-in-Soybean-and-Pigeonpea-Intercropping-System-Monika-Chouhan-55.pdf','',1,'The present investigation was carried at Research Farm of R.A.K. College of Agriculture, Sehore (Madhya Pradesh), during kharif 2016. Major objective of the investigation was to evaluate effect of weed management practices on associated weed flora in soybean + pigeonpea intercropping system. A very limited work on weed management in soybean + pigeon pea intercropping has been done as an application of herbicide. Six weed control practices were evaluated in randomized block design with three replications. The results of present study revealed that hand weeding twice at 30 and 45 DAS recorded least weed index and highest weed control efficiency followed by application of imazethapyr 35% + imazemox 35% 70 WG 70 g/ha at 20 DAS (PoE) and pendimethalin 30 EC 1 kg/ha (PE) fb imazethapyr 10 SL 100 g/ha (PoE). Present study helped in finding suitable weed control practices in soybean + pigeonpea intercropping system.','Weed management, Weed control efficiency, Weed density, Intercropping, Herbicides','Based on the foregoing discussion, it can be concluded that among weed management practices hand weeding twice at 30 and 45 DAS recorded least weed index and highest weed control efficiency followed by application of imazethapyr 35% + imazemox 35% 70 WG 70 g/ha at 20 DAS (PoE) and pendimethalin 30 EC 1 kg/ha (PE) fb imazethapyr 10 SL 100 g/ha (PoE).','-','Monika Chouhan, M.D. Vyas, Amit Kumar Jha, Nirmal Choudhary, Pramod Kumar and Bhumika Singh Lodhi (2023). Effect of Weed Management Practices on Weed Control Efficiency in Soybean and Pigeonpea Intercropping System. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 15(10): 286-289.'),(7666,'168','Effect of Irrigation Schedules and Sowing Dates on Onset of Phenological Stages and Growth Parameters of rabi Sorghum (Sorghum bicolor (L.) Moench)','Alakuntla Likhitha, Swarna Ronanki, G. Sreenivas and A. Madhavi ','Effect-of-Irrigation-Schedules-and-Sowing-Dates-on-Onset-of-Phenological-Stages-and-Growth-Parameters-of-rabi-Sorghum-(Sorghum-bicolor-(L.)-Moench)-Alakuntla-Likhitha-56.pdf','',1,'A field experiment was carried out at on sandy loam soils of Indian Institute of Millets Research, Rajendranagar, Hyderabad to investigate the effect of irrigation schedules and sowing dates on growth parameters of rabi sorghum during 2022-2023. The experiment was laid out in split plot design with twelve treatments replicated thrice. The main plot treatments include three irrigation schedules i.e., I1-life-saving irrigation, I2-irrigation at 50%DASM, I3-irrigation at critical crop growth stages (Tillering, Booting, Anthesis, Grain filling) and sub plot treatments include sowing dates i.e., D1-15th September, 30th September, D3-15th October and D4-30th October. The result revealed that there was a significant improvement in growth of rabi sorghum with sowing on 15th September and application of irrigation at critical crop growth stages. Significantly taller plants, higher leaf area and dry matter production were obtained with application of irrigation at critical crop growth stages. While, sowing on 15th September recorded higher growth parameters when compared to other dates of sowing. As the sowing is delayed, decline in the crop growth was observed.','Irrigation schedules, sowing dates, growth and rabi sorghum','From results of the data, it is evident that irrigation schedules and sowing dates significantly affected the plant height, leaf area and dry matter production and days to phenology. As there was a sufficient rainfall at initial stages of the crop growth, plant population was not influenced by irrigation schedules and sowing dates. ','-','Alakuntla Likhitha, Swarna Ronanki, G. Sreenivas and A. Madhavi (2023). Effect of Irrigation Schedules and Sowing Dates on Onset of Phenological Stages and Growth Parameters of rabi Sorghum (Sorghum bicolor (L.) Moench). Biological Forum – An International Journal, 15(10): 290-294.'),(7667,'168','Utilization Pattern of Social Media by the PG Students of Swami Keswanand Rajasthan Agriculture University and Rajasthan University of Veterinary and Animal Sciences, Bikaner','Vikash Kumar Meena, Salman Khan, Arvind Jhajharia, Meenakshi Jhakar and Kalawati Meena','Utilization-Pattern-of-Social-Media-by-the-PG-Students-of-Swami-Keswanand-Rajasthan-Agriculture-University-and-Rajasthan-University-of-Veterinary-and-Animal-Sciences,-Bikaner-VIKASH-KUMAR-MEENA-57.pdf','',1,'Social media has gained high popularity among the students; there are millions of students who have account on one or the other social media platform. The study was being undertaken in the constituent campus colleges of SKRAU and RAJUVAS, Bikaner. Under SKRAU, Bikaner three colleges were selected for the present study which is situated in SKRAU, Bikaner campus. One college under the RAJUVAS, were selected for the present study which is situated in RAJUVAS, Bikaner. To have an appropriate proportion of representation from both the universities, the technique of proportionate random sampling was applied. The total number of 160 respondents (109 Master level students and 51 Ph.D. level students) was selected. Thereafter, data were collected by using interview method and statistically analysed by applying appropriates and required statistically parameters and lead to following results:\r\nFacebook social media sources, “news” were observed overall rank first and among Ph.D. students the “Entertainment” was observed rank first. YouTube social media sources, “news” were observed rank first in master level students, and “Entertainment” was observed rank first in Ph.D. students. WhatsApp social media sources, “Messaging” were observed overall rank first among master level and Ph.D. level students. Twitter social media sources, “News” were observed rank first among master level and Ph.D. students. Telegram social media sources, “Receiving information” were observed rank first among the overall master level and Ph.D. students (except PH.D. students of COA, and IABM, Bikaner). Instagram social media sources “Entertainment” were observed rank first among the overall master level students and Ph.D. students. LinkedIn social media sources “Job related information” were depicted rank first among the overall master level students and Ph.D. students.\r\nMajority of the master level and Ph.D. level students “WhatsApp” got overall rank first. Showed that the master level and Ph.D. level students were revealed in the medium category (11.40-24.16) of utilization of social media. Showed that the majority of master level and Ph.D. level students were used the social media for the purpose of utilization were “Gaining information”. Depicted that majority of master level students spent their time of 2-4 hours per day and Ph.D. level students spent their time of 1-2 hours per day on social media. Majority of the master level students accessed social media through both (data pack and Wi-Fi) and Ph.D. student’s accessed social media through data pack. Majority of respondents had most preferred time of using social media were ‘‘both’’ (Day - Night time) was ranked first. Majority of the master level students had most preferred package of internet using ‘‘24/28 Days and 56 Days’’ was rank first and among Ph.D. level students had most preferred package of internet using were ‘‘24/28 Days.2. The study\'s conclusions can be used to create a plan for using social media for education in a structured manner. When creating e-learning materials for the student and using social media as a forum for discussions and reflections, in-depth analysis of the study can be used to decide on various parameters.\r\n','Social Media, Utilization, master level and Ph.D. level students, SKRAU and RAJUVAS','Based on the opinion given by the students and researcher personal experience while collecting the data the following recommendations are made:\r\n— The findings gave an overview of how and to what extent of social media is presently being used by the students for various educational purposes. \r\n— The study\'s conclusions can be used to create a plan for using social media for education in a structured manner. When creating e-learning materials for the student and using social media as a forum for discussions and reflections, in-depth analysis of the study can be used to decide on various parameters.\r\n— The findings gave an overview of how and to what extent of social media is presently being used by the students for various educational purposes. \r\n— The study\'s conclusions can be used to create a plan for using social media for education in a structured manner. When creating e-learning materials for the student and using social media as a forum for discussions and reflections, in-depth analysis of the study can be used to decide on various parameters.\r\n','-','Vikash Kumar Meena, Salman Khan, Arvind Jhajharia, Meenakshi Jhakar and Kalawati Meena (2023). Utilization Pattern of Social Media by the PG Students of Swami Keswanand Rajasthan Agriculture University and Rajasthan University of Veterinary and Animal Sciences, Bikaner. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 15(10): 295-303.'),(7668,'168','Raising Knowledge: Farmers in Southern Rajasthan Adopted Polyhouse Vegetable Cultivation by utilizing Diverse Information Sources and Channels','Vishal Dadheech, Shubham Mishra, Abhilasha Gehlot, Abhinav Gupta and Hitesh Salvi ','Raising-Knowledge-Farmers-in-Southern-Rajasthan-Adopted-Polyhouse-Vegetable-Cultivation-by-utilizing-Diverse-Information-Sources-and-Channels-Vishal-Dadheech-58.pdf','',1,'Information has received a wide range of acceptance as an essential resource of this century. It has been described as a simulating creativity, resulting in new outcomes and processes. All human societies depend very much on information for existence that is information is life. Polyhouse vegetable cultivation has emerged as a promising practice to enhance crop production and income for farmers in many regions. However, its successful adoption depends on farmers\' access to accurate and timely agricultural information. The study explores the various agricultural information sources used by farmers and their influence on the adoption of polyhouse vegetable cultivation practices. The key challenges in this study are assessing the accessibility of diverse information sources and channels by farmers. Understanding which sources are readily available and commonly used can be complex, as it may vary among regions and communities. The study was conducted in two districts of Rajasthan namely Bhilwara and Chittorgarh. Data was collected through surveys and interviews conducted with farmers in the region. To identify various sources of information the respondents were asked to respond to various sources of information used by them on three continuums viz., regular, occasional and never. Each source of information was assigned 3, 2 and 1, respectively and the recorded response was counted and converted into mean per cent score for each statement and then ranked accordingly. The study clearly show that out of all the selected respondents, majority of respondents (66.00 %) seeking information from various sources regarding vegetable cultivation in polyhouse whereas, 19.00 per cent respondents were more active in seeking information and remaining 15.00 per cent was less in contact with information sources. The study also shows that the respondents were utilizing mass contact to the greatest extent with MPS 87.33. These were followed by individual contact with MPS 85.55 however, the extent of group contact with MPS 82 and institutional sources with MPS 80.94 by respondents in the study area. Further studies also indicate that in mass contact methods “Television” ranked first with overall MPS 99.33. ','Information, Polyhouse, Mass contact, Group contact','The study shows that out of all the selected respondents, majority of respondents (66.00 %) seeking information from various sources regarding vegetable cultivation in polyhouse whereas, 19.00 per cent respondents were more active in seeking information and remaining 15.00 per cent was less in contact with information sources. Findings highlights that, among the chosen information sources, respondents predominantly utilized mass contact, scoring the highest at 87.33 MPS. Following closely behind was individual contact, securing the second position with an MPS of 85.55. In contrast, group contact scored 82.00 MPS, placing it in the third position, while institutional sources ranked fourth with an MPS of 80.94. the finding also revealed that majority of farmers are seeking information from gram sevak, progressive farmers, Demonstration, Farmers education tour/visit, television, radio, krishi mandi and Agriculture department for adopting polyhouse cultivation practices. ','-','Vishal Dadheech, Shubham Mishra, Abhilasha Gehlot, Abhinav Gupta and Hitesh Salvi (2023). Nurturing Knowledge: Farmers in Southern Rajasthan Adopted Polyhouse Vegetable Cultivation by utilizing Diverse Information Sources and Channels. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 15(10): 304-308.'),(7669,'168','Function of Chelators in Nutrient Supply to Plants','Afsanabanu Manik, Honnappa, Umeshbabu B. S., Padmashree, Surekha S. and Anil Jadhav ','Function-of-chelators-in-nutrient-supply-to-plants-Umesh-Babu-BS-59.pdf','',1,'Plants require several elements to grow, some of which are readily available through the air, such as oxygen, carbon, and hydrogen. However, other essential elements such as magnesium, calcium, iron, and zinc are not created through photosynthesis and must be extracted from the soil. Fertilizers and plant nutrition play an important role in improving crop yield and quality. However, the use of chemical fertilizers has raised significant concerns about their impact on plant, animal, human, and ecosystem health. Chelates were first introduced to human nutrition and then to animal nutrition to improve nutrient status and combat deficiencies, particularly iron (Fe) and zinc (Zn) shortages. Chelates are organic compounds that help plants access nutrients that might otherwise be inaccessible due to soil conditions. The chelator molecule encases the ion (magnesium, calcium, iron, zinc, and others) and prevents it from reacting with other ions in the soil. Chelating agents protect metal ions from unwanted chemical reactions and improve their availability for plant roots. Different chelating agents exist, both synthetic and natural. Synthetic chelating agents include ethylenediaminetetraacetic acid (EDTA) and ethylenediamine di-hydroxyphenyl acetic acid (EDDHA). Natural chelating agents include amino acids, organic acids, and phenolics. Each type of chelating agent has a distinct role in improving nutrient bioavailability for plant uptake. It is preferable to utilize an organic and inorganic chelator mix to improve plant performance and yield.','Photosynthesis, Fertilizer, Plant nutrition, Organic compounds','Chelators play an important role in plant nutrition by increasing the availability of micronutrients to plants. They help accelerate growth, increase yield, and improve crop quality. Chelation is a process that enables micronutrient uptake in plant cells by bonding to micronutrients. Chelating agents such as EDTA, DTPA, EDDHA, fulvic acid, humic acid, and amino acids facilitate this process. There are several types of chelators used in agriculture, including synthetic and naturally occurring ones. Each type of chelator has its own advantages and disadvantages depending on the soil type and crop requirements. The possible benefits of using chelators and minerals as an organic plant fertilizer include reduced plant nutrition costs, improved performance, and a high potential for antioxidant and antibacterial effects. Based on the results, it was proposed that, in order to get the best results in plant nutrition, the minerals might be supplemented in a combination of inorganic and organic sources at the two-third and one-third levels of requirements, respectively.','-','Afsanabanu Manik, Honnappa, Umeshbabu B. S., Padmashree, Surekha S. and Anil Jadhav (2023). Function of chelators in nutrient supply to plants. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 15(10): 309-313.'),(7670,'168','An Economic Analysis of Sweet Corn (Zea mays L.) Cultivation in Sonepat District of Haryana','Raj Ratan Panday, Parminder Singh, Dalip Kumar Bishnoi, Sagar Rawal and Ashok Dhillon ','An-Economic-Analysis-of-Sweet-Corn-(Zea-mays-L.)-Cultivation-in-Sonepat-District-of-Haryana-Sagar-Rawal-60.pdf','',1,'The present study was conducted in order to estimate the costs and returns in sweet corn production and to identify the constraints in it. The selection of Sonepat was done based on highest acreage under sweet corn in Haryana. The data was collected from the farmers based on pre-structured interview schedule using face-to-face interview method. A sample of 80 farmers were taken using multi-stage purposive-cum random sampling technique in which 20 farmers each from four villages of Rai block was selected based on highest area under the crop. Total cost of cultivation was found to be ₹ 53731.52 acre-1 and yield was 64.13 quintal acre-1 for all categories of farm on an average while gross returns were ₹ 99466.61 acre-1 and net returns were ₹ 45735.08 acre-1. Small farmers had highest cost of cultivation i.e., ₹ 54411.63 acre-1 followed by marginal, medium while least in case of large farmers. Medium farmers had highest return i.e., ₹ 102418.97 acre-1 followed by large, small and lowest for marginal farms i.e., ₹ 94791.67 acre-1. The major constraints included high cost of seeds as reported by about 82% of farmers followed by problem of stray animals (76%) and the non availability of quality seeds in time (72%). This study provides essential insights into sweet corn production in Sonepat, Haryana, offering valuable cost-return estimations and identifying key constraints. However, limitations include regional specificity and a relatively small sample size.','Sweet corn, Costs and returns, Crop diversification, Sonepat','As the result of study, it was concluded that the marginal and small farmers who grow sweet corn were mostly specialized in sweet corn cultivation while the medium and large farmers were allocating less than 50 percent of their total land for sweet corn cultivation. Among all kinds of operational costs, the cost incurred on seeds (₹ 8688.50) was highest followed by cost of harvesting and cost on fertilizers. The overall per-acre cost of cultivation was ₹ 53731.52. Net return per-acre of sweet corn turned out to be ₹ 45735.08 while return per-rupee of investment was 1.86. The returns from sweet corn were highest in case of medium farms followed by the large, small and marginal farms. The cost of production per quintal was highest on marginal farms 873.18 followed by small, medium and large farms i.e., while the return per rupee of investment was highest on medium farms were 1.92. Overall, sweet corn concluded to be a very good crop and can be grown by all categories of farmers to get a better outcome.','-','Raj Ratan Panday, Parminder Singh, Dalip Kumar Bishnoi, Sagar Rawal and Ashok Dhillon (2023). An Economic Analysis of Sweet Corn (Zea mays L.) Cultivation in Sonepat District of Haryana. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 15(10): 314-317.'),(7671,'168','Influence of Secondary Nutrients and Biofertilizers on Postharvest Parameters in Chilli (Capsicum annuum L.)','Rashmi H., Srinivasa V., Devaraju, Shivaprasad M. and Ravi C.S. ','Influence of Secondary Nutrients and Biofertilizers on Postharvest Parameters in Chilli (Capsicum annuum L.)-Srinivasa V-61.pdf','',1,'A field experiment was conducted on influence of secondary nutrients and biofertilizers on postharvest parameters in chilli at College of Horticulture, Mudigere. The major postharvest parameters like physiological loss in weight, rotting percent and shelf life in chilli was studied. Chilli commonly encounter postharvest problems, such as quality degradation, chilling injury when stored below 7 °C, shrivelling associated with rapid loss of weight, begin to turn colour and deteriorate within a few days after harvest in ambient conditions. The lowest physiological loss in weight (1.30 %, 2.17 %, 4.05 % and 6.83 %, respectively) @ 4, 8, 12 and 16 DAS, respectively, rotting percent (1.87 %, 4.34 %, 6.90 % and 11.97 %, respectively) @ 4, 8, 12 and 16 DAS, respectively, maximum days of storage life (16.18 days) were noticed with the application of 75 % RDNPK + CaNO3 @ 0.5 % + MgSO4 @ 0.4 % + Azospirillum + PSB + KSB (T11). Thus, combined use of organic amendments (biofertilizers, FYM) along with chemical fertilizers not only produced highest and sustainable crop yield but also improved the postharvest parameters due to application of calcium and magnesium to chilli.','Chilli, secondary nutrients, post-harvest parameters','It can be concluded that combined application of 75 % RDNPK + CaNO3@ 0.5 % + MgSO4@ 0.4 % + Azospirillum + PSB + KSB (T11) showed the significant variation in physiological loss in weight, rotting per cent and also increased the shelf life of chilli fruits.','-','Rashmi H., Srinivasa V., Devaraju, Shivaprasad M. and Ravi C.S. (2023). Influence of Secondary Nutrients and Biofertilizers on Postharvest Parameters in Chilli (Capsicum annuum L.). Biological Forum – An International Journal, 15(10): 318-321.'),(7672,'157','Comparative Formulation and Evaluation of Probiotic Products Utilizing different Bacterial Strains: A Comprehensive Study','Patel N. J., Hajoori M. and Desai P.','Comparative Formulation and Evaluation of Probiotic Products Utilizing different Bacterial Strains A Comprehensive study-Patel NJ-261.pdf','',1,'Probiotic bacterial strains are used in preparations that are good for human and animal health. The advantages of probiotics have led to a rise in interest in methods for microbial preservation. This research contrasts a few probiotic formulation techniques. Here we have considered six bacteria strains Bacillus subtilis HFS 2.1 TM, Bacillus subtilis HFS 10.2 TM, Staphylococcus arlettae FS 9.2 SA, Pediococcus pentosaceus HFS 6.2 NA, Limosilactobacillus fermentum HFS 11.1 TM, and Lactiplantibacillus HFS 11.1 PDA. Three types of probiotics have been formulated capsules by solid-state fermentation, microencapsulated gel beads, and curd. The overall comparison reveals that microencapsulation is the most effective method, followed by solid-state fermentation. The major challenge faced during this study was obtaining a dried soy substrate-grown probiotic formulation, which was successfully achieved by adding additional steps like desiccation, intermediate crushing, and redrying in a hot air oven.','Microencapsulation, Solid-state fermentation, Probiotic-curd','The best method for probiotic formulation is solid-state fermentation because it preserves stability, and viability without sacrificing shelf life due to its dry state. The only drawback of this method is spoilage during SSPF fermentation and the growth of undesirable bacteria which can be prevented by maintaining a sterile environment. Microencapsulation is the second best method for probiotic formulation as it also serves good survival and stability but the primary drawback to this procedure is the lower shelf life and survival rate of bacteria, due to its shorter shelf life, susceptibility to spoilage, and inability to be produced by non-fermenting bacteria, Also dairy products raise the risk of lactose intolerance, galactosemia, milk protein allergies, and excessive cholesterol in humans. Thus, curd formation appears to be the least practicable method. All six bacteria can be used to successfully create capsules using solid-state fermentation, as well as microencapsulated beads, but bacteria that do not ferment cannot be utilised to create probiotic curd.','-','Patel N. J., Hajoori M., Desai P. (2023). Comparative formulation and evaluation of probiotic products utilizing different bacterial strains: A comprehensive study. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 15(5): 1747-1752. '),(7673,'168','Performance Evaluation of Laser Spray Irrigation System under Variable Rain Hose Pipe Lengths','Kavita, Rajashekarappa K. S., Hanumanthappa, D. C. and Devappa ','Performance-Evaluation-of-Laser-Spray-Irrigation-System-Under-Variablele-Rain-Hose-Pipe-Lengths-KAVITHA-62.pdf','',1,'In order to standardize the rainhose pipe length, diameter and operating pressure under local topography the investigation is much needed at present water scarcity situation. Laser spray irrigation is an innovative alternative to conventional sprinkler irrigation, offering an easy-to-implement solution. The performance of laser spray irrigation system under lengths 20 m, 40 m and 60 m of rain hose pipe were analysed. The relationship between various lengths of rain pipes and their corresponding discharges, uniformity coefficient and throw distance were plotted. The decreasing pressure had a linear relationship with discharge. The results of the study ensure that the soil moisture content at higher pressure (at head reach of rain hose pipe) is more compared with lower pressure (at tail end of rain hose pipe) and could also found that water application rate was decreased with increasing rain pipe length. The top surface contains lower moisture content and it increased with depth. The water distribution was more uniform at 20 m rain hose pipe with higher pressure and the uniformity coefficient is approximately 97.8 and distribution efficiency of 97.10 % which is comparatively higher than 40 m and 60 m rain hose pipe. In case of multilateral system due to lesser spatial variation, the coefficient of uniformity is higher. But 20m rain hose pipe is not economical to use, so the response for radish crop at 40 m length rain hose pipe of 40 mm diameter with 4 m spacing was good at 0.75 kg cm-2 operating pressure and conclude that which is to be a highly effective water application method.','Laser Spray, uniformity coefficient, Discharge rate, Distribution efficiency, Radish','Throw distance was found to be decreased with increasing rain pipe length which resulted in maximum distance of 4.14 m and 8.12 m away from the lateral for both 20 mm and 40 mm rain hose pipe. It observed that pressure loss was occurred along the rain pipe that resulted in decreased discharge rate at 60 m length of rain pipe. The discharge per unit length of the lateral was found to be decreased with increasing Rain pipe length. As the length of rain pipe increased coefficient of uniformity was found to be decreased. Uniformity coefficient is approximately 86 % at 60 m length. Overall, irrespective of rain hose pipe diameter the laser spray irrigation system performed well up to 40 m length hose rain pipe with uniformity coefficient of 93.29 and 94.81 %, distribution uniformity of 91 and 92.48 % and mean application rate of 8.31 and 10.1 cm hr-1 with operating pressure of 0.75 kg cm-² for 20mm and 40mm diameter rain hose pipes respectively, compared to 60 m length. The general trend considering the different parameters observed suggests that irrespective of diameter of ran pipe, 20 m length is not economical to use so 40 m length was found to be better to achieve higher yields and benefit from vegetable crops with 4m pipe spacing under 0.75 kg cm-2 operating pressure.','-','Kavita, Rajashekarappa K. S., Hanumanthappa, D. C. and Devappa (2023). Performance Evaluation of Laser Spray Irrigation System Under Variable Rain Hose Pipe Lengths. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 15(10): 322-327.'),(7674,'163','Detection of Shiga Toxin Producing Escherichia coli (STEC) O157-A Food and Waterborne Zoonotic Pathogens as Implications of One Health Perspective','Darshan D. Patel, Murtaza A. Hajoori and Jignaben P. Naik ','Detection of Shiga Toxin Producing Escherichia Coli (STEC) O157-A Food and Waterborne Zoonotic Pathogens as Implications of One Health Perspective-Darshan D Patel-99.pdf','',1,'Specific Escherichia coli strain producing Shiga toxin (STEC) O157, is a food and waterborne pathogen with severe public health implications. From a zoonotic standpoint, STEC is the only pathogenicity group of chief interest, able to cause severe disease in humans when being transmitted through the food chain from their animal reservoirs. Shiga toxin-producing microbes are perceptible, plentiful and can exist in diverse environmental conditions. The diversity of microorganisms presents in environmental samples and the limitations of protein detection in the samples make it challenging to identify environmental STEC directly and specifically. We report the first-time isolation of this pathogen in the South Gujarat of India through standardized culture procedures and polymerase chain reaction (PCR). Environmental samples- food, water and animal excreta were cultured and STEC were selectively isolated and identified by sorbitol fermentability and β-glucuronidase activity. The latex agglutination test was used to detect O157 antigens, and multiplex PCR was carried out to detect virulence-related genes. A total of 386 E. coli isolates, 36 were Sorbitol non-fermenting (SNF), 30 were negative for β-glucuronidase activity. Among SNF isolates, 20 were confirmed STEC O157 by latex test. STEC that carried eaeA (10), hlyA (7), stx1(3) and stx2(5) genes were detected. Hence, this pathogen is a probable cause of food-waterborne disease in the study area, its investigation in both livestock and their products should be improved to characterize the impact of its zoonotic transmission and important for implications of one health.','Zoonotic Escherichia coli, STEC O157, Sorbitol non-fermenting, β-glucuronidase activity','-','-','Darshan D. Patel, Murtaza A. Hajoori and Jignaben P. Naik (2023). Detection of Shiga Toxin Producing Escherichia coli (STEC) O157-A Food and Waterborne Zoonotic Pathogens as Implications of One Health Perspective. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 15(10): 640-646.'),(7675,'168','A Study on Profile Attributes of Clients Using Services of Selected ICT based Agristart-ups','Kalpna Shrivastava, Kamini Bisht, Ashish Kumar Nagar and Sanjana Shrivastava','A-Study-on-Profile-Attributes-of-Clients-Using-Services-of-Selected-ICT-based-Agristart-ups-Kalpna-Shrivastava-63.pdf','',4,'Agristart-up is the use of technology in agriculture, horticulture and aquaculturewith the aim of improving yield, efficiency and profitability. Aim of any organization is to reach out to their clients. Agristart-up can be products, services, or applications derived from agriculture that improves living standard of clients. The present study was carried out to know the profile attributes of selected agristart-ups clients in Indore district of Madhya Pradesh. Total 80 clients were selected through simple random sampling with replacement method. The results revealed that majority of clients were in middle age (71.25%), had education up to high school (31.25%), male (96.25%), who had small land holding (55.00%) cultivation (60.00%) as their primary occupation, medium farming experience (51.25%), with low social participation (73.75%), medium annual income (65.00%), formal source of credit (100.00%), medium level of information seeking behavior (60.00%).','Agristart-ups, products, services, clients, profile and attributes','Modern agriculture is moving away from conventional methods in order to utilize technology to increase output, profit, and client standards of living because customers have a direct or indirect impact on the success of agristart-ups so that an overview of the socio-personal characteristics of clients revealed that higher respondents belonged to middle age group and 31.25 per cent completed high school, in which mostly were male, more than half of respondents were having small (1.01-2.00 ha) land holdings, three-fifth clients were taking cultivation as main occupation, nearly half of respondents had medium farming experience (4.1 to 7 year), 73.75 per cent had low social participation. In economic, higher perentage had medium annual income (Rs 70438.01 to Rs 146062.00) whereas 60.00 per cent were having medium information seeking behaviour in communicational attributes. Agristart-ups desire to give their clients the advice and input they need to be effective enterprises. Agristartups\' performance or success is influenced on their clientele.','-','Kalpna Shrivastava, Kamini Bisht, Ashish Kumar Nagar and Sanjana Shrivastava (2023). A Study on Profile Attributes of Clients Using Services of Selected ICT based Agristart-ups. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 15(10): 314-317.'),(7676,'168','Seasonal Incidence of Major Insect Pests of Green gram in relation to Biotic and Abiotic factors in North Western Plain Zone of Rajasthan','Devendra Saini, Roop Singh Meena, Udai Pal Singh, Sudhir Pratap Singh and Ashok Sakharam Chandar','Seasonal-Incidence-of-Major-Insect-Pests-of-Green-gram-in-relation-to-Biotic-and-Abiotic-factors-in-North-Western-Plain-Zone-of-Rajasthan-Devendra-Saini-64.pdf','',4,'The investigation on “Seasonal incidence of major insect pests of green gram in relation to biotic and abiotic factors in North Western Plain Zone of Rajasthan’’ was carried out at Agricultural Research Station, Sriganganagar during Kharif-2022. Whitefly and thrips were appeared soon after crop germination (second week of August) of crop. The peak population of whitefly with 63.78 whiteflies/ 3 trifoliate leaves was recorded in the fourth week of August. While, thrips attained their peak in third week of August with 14.57 thrips/ 3 trifoliate leaves. The maximum population of spotted pod borer i.e. 3.40 larvae/ 5 plant with heights pod damage 33.80 per cent was observed in second week of September. The minimum temperature and minimum-maximum relative humidity had positive correlation with whitefly and thrips population, whereas maximum temperature had negative correlation with thrips and whitefly. The total rainfall exhibited negative influence on whitefly and positive on thrips population. The spotted pod borer population and per cent pod damage had negative correlation with minimum temperature, minimum maximum relative humidity and total rainfall and positive with maximum temperature, respectively. The activity of green lacewing, Chrysoperla carnea Step., started with the infestation of whitefly and thrips in third week of August (33rd standard meteorological week). The Chrysoperla carnea Step., Cheilomenes sexmaculata Fab. and spider were major natural enemies of insect pest on crop and became active with the appearance of insect pest. The natural enemies’ population had positive correlation with minimum-maximum temperature, relative maximum humidity and pest population and negative minimum relative humidity and total rainfall. ','Seasonal, correlation, infestation, natural enemies','The peak incidence of whitefly was noticed in the fourth week of August and thrips attained their peak in third week of August. The whitefly and thrips population had positive correlated with all abiotic factors except maximum temperature, whereas rainfall negatively influenced the whitefly population. However, maximum incidence of spotted pod borer, Maruca testulalis Geyer with highest pod damage was observed in second week of September and negatively correlated with all abiotic factors except maximum temperature. The Chrysoperla carnea Step, Cheilomenes sexmaculata Fab and spider reported as major natural enemies of insect pest on crop and became active with the appearance of insect pest.','-','Devendra Saini, Roop Singh Meena, Udai Pal Singh, Sudhir Pratap Singh and Ashok Sakharam Chandar (2023). Seasonal Incidence of Major Insect Pests of Green gram in relation to Biotic and Abiotic factors in North Western Plain Zone of Rajasthan. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 15(10): 318-321.'),(7677,'168','Occurrence and Pathology of Visceral Gout in Chickens','Udaya Sai Sitaram Tella, Mridusmrita Buragohain, Abhijit Deka, Sravan Kumar Reddy and M. Sai Kumar Reddy','Occurrence-and-Pathology-of-Visceral-Gout-in-Chickens-Udaya-Sai-Sitaram-Tella-65.pdf','',4,'The present study deals with the occurrence and pathology of Visceral gout in chickens. During 2021 and 2022, an incidence of visceral gout was recorded in the month of July and August in the carcasses brought to the Department of Pathology, CVSc, AAU, Khanapara. The mortality was 2.1% (i.e., 16) considering only among the month of July (i.e., 6), August (i.e., 10) and were diagnosed as Visceral gout. The effect of different breed and month on the occurrence of Visceral gout were studied. Mostly observed gross lesions include white chalky material on epicardial surface of heart and serosal surface of liver, spleen, lung and enlargement of kidneys with necrotic foci were found. On histopathological special staining with De Galantha revealed presence of urates crystals with black colour were recorded.','De Galantha, Visceral gout, urates crystals, breed, month','The motality was recorded in the month of July and August might due to the high humidity climate of Assam and the incidence of mortality was recorded in Kampura, Dahlem red and Daothigir breeds in descending grades of breed order during the study.','-','Udaya Sai Sitaram Tella, Mridusmrita Buragohain, Abhijit Deka, Sravan Kumar Reddy and M. Sai Kumar Reddy (2023). Occurrence and Pathology of Visceral Gout in Chickens. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 15(10): 322-323.'),(7678,'165','Assessment of Crop Yield Losses in Green gram due to Major Insect-pests','Devendra Saini, Roop Singh Meena, Udai Pal Singh, Sudhir Pratap Singh and Ashok Sakharam Chandar','Assessment-of-Crop-Yield-Losses-in-Green-gram-due-to-Major-Insect-pests-Devendra-Saini-186.pdf','',1,'The investigation on Assessment of Crop Yield Losses in Green gram due to Major Insect-pests was carried out at Agricultural Research Station, Sriganganagar during Kharif- 2022. The infestation of whitefly, thrips and spotted pod borer significantly influenced the yield and yield attributing plant characters of mung bean. It caused 3.98, 63.98, 66.29 and 21.01 per cent reduction in plant height, number of pods, number of grain and grain weight, respectively.','Assessment, loss, yield, insect-pest ','The insect pest adversely affected the plant height, number of pods, number of grain, grain damage and weight of grain/ plot. Experiment conducted on assessment of losses revealed that the minimum insect pest infestation and maximum plant height, significantly higher number of pods, number of grain and grain weight was recorded from protected plots over the unprotected set of plots.','-','Devendra Saini, Roop Singh Meena, Udai Pal Singh, Sudhir Pratap Singh and Ashok Sakharam Chandar (2023). Assessment of Crop Yield Losses in Green gram due to Major Insect-pests. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 15(9): 1078-1080.'),(7679,'168','Influence of KNO3 and GA3 on Vegetative Growth of Dragon Fruit [Hylocereus costaricensis (Web.) Britton and Rose]','Tendul Chouhan, Sutanu Maji, Sarjesh Kumar Meena, Monika Bhanwariya, Krishna Jat, Razauddin and Neha','Influence-of-KNO3-and-GA3-on-Vegetative-Growth-of-Dragon-Fruit-Hylocereus-costaricensis-Web-Britton-and-Rose-Tendul-Chouhan-66.pdf','',4,'Dragon fruit has become a promising high-value crop in India but has not so much awareness about its production technology. The present investigation was planned to evaluate the effect of some chemical and growth regulator applications on the growth of dragon fruit. The investigation had 9 treatments (T1 control, T2 - KNO3 @ 3 %, T3 - KNO3 @ 4 %, T4 - GA3 @ 50 ppm, T5 -GA3 @ 100 ppm, T6 - KNO3 @ 3% + GA3 @ 50 ppm, T7 - KNO3 @ 3 % + GA3 @ 100 ppm, T8 - KNO3 @ 4 % + GA3 @ 50 ppm, T9 - KNO3 @ 4 % + GA3 @ 100 ppm) with three replications laid out in Randomized Block Design. Different concentrations of GA3 and KNO3 were found to have a significant impact on the vegetative growth variables of dragon fruit plants. As a result, the present investigation found that combining the effect of GA3 and KNO3 in the form of treatment T7, i.e. KNO3@3% + GA3@100 ppm would be most effective for better vegetative growth such as average increase plant height (10.33cm), distance between areoles (0.21), the arch height (0.6mm), increased number of spines per areole (6.0) and growth of newly emerged shoots (26.6) of dragon fruit plant or in Northern India climatic conditions. Hence, the application of KNO3@3% + GA3 @100 ppm could be used for better plant growth and development of the dragon fruit.','Dragon fruit, vegetative growth, KNO3, GA3','As a result, the present investigation found that combining the effect of GA3 and KNO3 in the form of treatment T7, i.e. KNO3@3% + GA3@100 ppm would be most effective for better vegetative growth such as an average increase in plant height (10.33cm), distance between areoles (0.21), the arch height (0.6mm), increased number of spines per areole (6.0) and growth of newly emerged shoots (26.6) of dragon fruit plant or in Northern India climatic conditions.','-','Tendul Chouhan, Sutanu Maji, Sarjesh Kumar Meena, Monika Bhanwariya, Krishna Jat and Razauddin and Neha (2023). Influence of KNO3 and GA3 on Vegetative Growth of Dragon Fruit [Hylocereus costaricensis (Web.) Britton and Rose]. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 15(10): 324-327.'),(7680,'167','A Study on the AI – Based Robotic Drone for Emergency Medical Applications using Python Programming','Poosarla Jayanth and Rajeev Yadav','A-Study-on-the-AI-Based-Robotic-Drone-for-Emergency-Medical-Applications-using-Python-Programming-Poosarla-Jayanth-7.pdf','',1,'Drones can deliver payloads, acquire real-time data in an efficient and cost-effective manner, and have been a driving force behind the rapid development of a wide variety of industrial, commercial, and recreational applications. In order to attend the requirements of living human people in terms of medical services or support, drones play a crucial role. The study met the challenges related to model\'s weights that iteratively changed depending on the computed loss and gradients with respect to the loss. The optimizer makes adjustments to the weights in order to reduce the amount of loss and improve the model\'s overall performance on the given task. Regrettably, advancements in medical science have occurred at a more glacial pace in recent years. The primary objective of this research is to carry out a study on the application of AI-based robotic drones to emergency medical situations. This kind of visualisation enables you to keep track of how well your model is picking up new information during training and to see any problems like over- or under fitting. The accuracy rate was found to be 0.8530% and the loss function was found to be 0.4625% based on the research\'s findings.','Artificial Intelligence, Drones, Medical Applications, Robotics','A U-Net model built with Tensor Flow\'s Keras application programming interface (API). The configuration of the model\'s training procedure is accomplished through the usage of the compile function. After the model has been compiled, it is now prepared to be trained with the help of the fit function. During training, the model\'s weights are iteratively changed depending on the computed loss and gradients with respect to the loss. This process takes place in the background. The optimizer makes adjustments to the weights in order to reduce the amount of loss and improve the model\'s overall performance on the given task. During training, the metrics that are given in the compile function are calculated and shown. This is done in order to provide insights into the performance of the model as it learns from the training data. According to the findings of this investigation, the accuracy rate was found to be 0.8530%, and the loss function was found to be 0.4625%.','-','-'),(7681,'167','Seasonal Incidence of Insect Pests and their natural enemies on Kharif Maize','Gagandeep Singh, Vijay Kumar and Amit Kumar','Seasonal-Incidence-of-Insect-Pests-and-their-natural-enemies-on-Kharif-Maize-Gagandeep-Singh-8.pdf','',1,'The present investigation on population dynamics of different insect pests of maize viz., maize stem borer (Chilo partellus Swinhoe), maize aphid (Rophalosiphum maidis Fitch), grey weevil (Myllocerus discolour Bochemann), maize cobworm (Helicoverpa armigera Hubner) and the abundance of natural enemies in the maize field was conducted during Kharif, 2018 at Instructional Farm, Rajasthan College of Agriculture, MPUAT, Udaipur. Results of the study revealed that the maximum leaf injury (8.30 mean LIR) by C. partellus was recorded in the second week of August at 30th days after sowing. The dead heart incidence first appeared during last week of July and reached to its peak (3.00 per cent) during second week of August at 30th days after sowing. The peak infestation (96.50 /plant) of Rhopalosiphum maidis was observed in the second week of August. The maximum population of Myllocerus discolour (5.50 /plant) was noticed during third week of August. The incidence of Helicoverpa armigera larvae began in third week of July and reached to its peak (3.30/plant) in the first week of August. The H. armigera larvae population showed a significant negative correlation with mean relative humidity (-0.764). Natural enemies’ viz., coccinellids and green lacewing reached to its peak respectively, 7.50/plant and 2.50/ plant in the second week of August. The coccinellids beetles (0.914) and green lacewing (0.938) population showed a significant positive correlation with R. maidis population. ','Insect pests, natural incidence, population dynamics, seasonal incidence','The population dynamics of different insect pests and their natural enemies were observed significantly influenced by weather parameters and the damage caused by these insect pests are affected by fluctuation in abiotic factors.','-','-'),(7682,'168','Personal Socio-Economic Profile of the Women SHG Members in Udaipur District of Rajasthan','Abhilasha Gehlot, Krishna Kumari Purbia, Vishal Dadheech, Hitesh Salvi and Himani Kumawat ','Personal-Socio-Economic-Profile-of-the-Women-SHG-Members-in-Udaipur-District-of-Rajasthan-Abhilasha-Gehlot-67.pdf','',1,'A Self-help group (SHG) is a financial intermediary committee. It usually composed of 10-20 local women members. The research work was performed in Udaipur district of Rajasthan state. For this research among the 17 tehsils of Udaipur district Rishabhdev and Kherwara tehsil were selected as they are having highest number of SHG. We have selected 20 SHG from 2 selected tehsil and 6 farm women from each SHG. Thus, total 120 farm women were selected for proposed study. For data collection, the face-to-face interview technique was opted. The frequency and percentage were used to classify the respondents with respect to independent variables. Also, Mean Percentage Score, Ranking, Arithmetic mean, and Standard deviation were also calculated for the present study. The results revealed that major part of respondents was from middle age group. The results also publicized that 45.83 percent farm women were illiterate. Maximum number of respondents were married. It was also established that maximum number of respondents were from joint family. The study of caste structure revealed that 100 percent of farming families belong to SC/ST category. Maximum number of farm women have poorly developed houses. It was also observed that maximum number of farm women were doing other occupation in their locality. It had been observed that majority of farm women got source of information through organized source. The key challenges in this study are to empower farm women through Self-help group activities promoted by Rajasthan Government, to encourage women’s participation and gain knowledge in various field of agriculture.','Self-help group, Empowerment, Women, Socio-economic','It was concluded that women SHG members have medium level of personal socio-economic condition. The present study has been conducted under limited characteristics, so that, it will be better if more characteristics of women SHG members are taken further research in this area. As socio economic status of the women SHG is a complex phenomenon and includes so many things as stated earlier, it may be possible that some important components might have skipped out which may be considered by other research workers in future. ','-','Abhilasha Gehlot, Krishna Kumari Purbia, Vishal Dadheech, Hitesh Salvi and Himani Kumawat (2023). Personal Socio-Economic Profile of the Women SHG Members in Udaipur District of Rajasthan. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 15(10): 328-336.'),(7683,'157','Mental Health Laws in India: An Analysis','Ashish Sharma','Mental-Health-Laws-in-India-An-Analysis-Ashish-Sharma-262.pdf','',1,'Human rights and underprivileged people\'s access to mental health care require supportive laws and policies. Both \"hard\" and \"soft\" laws pertaining to mental health care have been drafted on a global and regional level. It has been observed that new legislation and adjustments to existing ones are regularly required in the area of mental health treatment in India. Reforming mental health care has mostly been a reactive process thus far, but new laws and regulations provide the possibility of proactive change. A major obstacle to providing quality mental health care in India is a lack of appropriately trained human resources. A two-week forensic psychiatry course is required by postgraduate psychiatric standards, although this is inadequate to demonstrate the necessary competency. Consequently, forensic psychiatry necessitates the creation of a specialty. In addition, it\'s necessary to establish, plan, and manage forensic mental health services. It is necessary to have one or more forensic psychiatric institutes in India.','Mental Health, Health, Treatment, Psychiatry, Law','It is necessary to set aside enough money and make plans to expand the resources and expertise that mental health professionals and staff have access to. The Mental Health Act of 1987, the previous legislation, did not include a definition of mental illness. The expression \"mentally ill person\" means \"a person who requires treatment for any mental disorder other than mental retardation.\" Substance use disorder (SUD) was not mentioned again after Chapter III. The current legislation, the Mental Health Care Act of 2017, officially classifies SUD as a mental illness. The MHCA, 2017\'s Section 89 is problematic since it allows for the treatment and admission of a person with a mental disorder without that person\'s agreement if a designated representative seeks it. The primary carer role is overlooked by the Act, which is within the family. Even medical professionals depend on the relatives of their patients. Therefore, appropriate family support is needed by the patient, the healthcare administration, and the practitioner. The government\'s mental health plan is likewise disregarded by the Act. The National Mental Health Program should have been created by every state and overseen by the state mental health authority, according to the Act. There are several strategies that may be applied to stay clear of the risks. Removing the mention of SUD from the definition of mental disease is one way to achieve this and extricate the idea of addiction therapy from the Mental Health Act of 2017. Many nations, including the United States, Australia (in many of its states), and New Zealand, have created separate laws for addiction and its treatment and have excluded drug abuse from their mental health laws because individuals who misuse substances behave differently and need different kinds of care. Schools, colleges, and other educational institutions should implement mental health programs. In India, a set budget ought to be set aside for the execution of these initiatives.','-','Ashish Sharma (2023). Mental Health Laws in India: An Analysis. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 15(5): 1753-1757.'),(7684,'168','Effect of Different Levels of Gibberellic Acid (GA3) on Seed Germination and Seedling Growth of Sweet Orange (Citrus sinensis L.) cv. Malta','Deeksha Rawat, Manju Negi, Gopal Mani and Krishna ','Effect-of-Different-Levels-of-Gibberellic-Acid-(GA3)-on-Seed-Germination-and-Seedling-Growth-of-Sweet-Orange-(Citrus-sinensis-L.)-cv.-Malta-Gopal Mani-68.pdf','',1,'The sweet orange, scientifically labeled as Citrus sinensis L. and belonging to the Rutaceae family, holds significant global importance as a fruit. While its origins trace back to Southeast Asia, it is now cultivated in various regions across the world. Its pulp and the juice extracted from it are essential components of diets, rich in vitamin C, liminoids, synephrine, hesperidin, polyphenols, pectins, calcium, potassium, thiamine, niacin, and magnesium. A systematic study was carried out to investigate the Effect of Different Levels Gibberellic acid on Seed Germination and Seedling Growth of Sweet Orange (Citrus sinensis L.) cv. Malta. The experiment was allocated with three replication and each replication contained 15 seeds under a randomized complete block design with 11 different treatment combinations of GA3. The best results in terms of minimum days taken for germination, maximum germination per cent, survival per cent, shoot length, shoot diameter, number of leaves, leaf area, shoot fresh weight, shoot dry weight, root length, root diameter, total number of roots, root fresh weight, root dry weight, total fresh weight, total dry weight and cost benefit ratio were obtained with T11 (GA3 @ 200 ppm). The goal of this study was to determine how Gibberellic acid influences seed germination with different concentrations and which concentration is best or suitable for further future applications to grow seedlings easily and quickly.','Germination, GA3, Sweet Orange, Growth','In the present investigation, it was concluded that GA3 @ 200 ppm (T11) was proved superior in respect to germination of Sweet Orange (Citrus sinensis L.) cv. Malta seed as well as growth parameter, survival percent, shoot characters, root characters, total fresh weight, total dry weight and maximum cost benefit ratio was also observed in it (1:5.173).Future scope the seed treated with GA3 200ppm identified in this study can be recommended commercially for overall growth of seedlings and Cost benefit ratio for Sweet orange cv. Malta. ','-','Deeksha Rawat, Manju Negi, Gopal Mani and Krishna (2023). Effect of Different Levels of Gibberellic Acid (GA3) on Seed Germination and Seedling Growth of Sweet Orange (Citrus sinensis L.) cv. Malta. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 15(10): 337-342.'),(7685,'168','Effect of Osmotic Temperature and Solution Concentration on the Moisture loss and Solid Gain of Osmo-dried Ivy Gourd (Coccinia grandis)','Nithyalakshmi V. and Gayathri P. ','Effect-of-Osmotic-Temperature-and-Solution-Concentration-on-the-Moisture-loss-and-Solid-Gain-of-Osmo-dried-Ivy-Gourd--(Coccinia-grandis)-Nithyalakshmi-69.pdf','',1,'Osmotic dehydration process involves partial removal of water by immersing fruits and vegetables in sugar solution. The aim of this research was to study the effect of osmotic temperature and osmotic solution concentration on solid gain, moisture loss and weight reduction during osmotic dehydration. Solution-to-sample mass ratio (5:1) and osmosis time (5 hour) were kept constant and osmotic temperature (40, 50 and 60oC) and osmotic solution (sugar) concentration (40, 50 and 60 %) were varied. The transfer of water and sugar were quantitatively investigated during osmotic dehydration of ivy gourd slices. The osmotic dehydration process was optimized for water loss, solid gain and weight reduction. It was found that the concentration of sugar solution and temperature were the most significant factors affecting the water loss, solid gain and weight reduction during osmotic dehydration of ivy gourd. Effect of temperature and time were more prominent for determining solid gain than the concentration of osmotic solution. The sugar concentration and temperature has direct effect on moisture loss and solid gain. Osmotic temperature of 60°C and sugar concentration of 60oBrix were found to be optimum condition for osmotic dehydration of ivy gourd. At this optimum condition, water loss, solid gain and weight reduction were found to be 64.4%, 9.45% and 88.75% respectively. The mean value of rehydration ratio of 2.78 was observed at temperature 60°C and sugar concentration 60oBrix.','Osmotic dehydration, Ivy gourd, sold gain, water loss and rehydration ratio','The effect of osmotic solution temperature and concentration on water loss during osmotic dehydration depicted that the water loss by ivy gourd slices increased with increase in osmotic solution concentrations and temperature. High water loss, solid gain and weight reduction of 64.4 %, 9.45 % and 88.75% respectively were observed at 60oBrix osmotic solution concentration and 60oC temperature. High rehydration ratio of 2.78 was observed at 60oBrix osmotic solution concentration and 60oC temperature. High rehydration ratio revealed better quality parameters of the dried samples for human consumption.','-','Nithyalakshmi V. and Gayathri P. (2023). Effect of Osmotic Temperature and Solution Concentration on the Moisture loss and Solid Gain of Osmo-dried Ivy Gourd (Coccinia grandis). Biological Forum – An International Journal, 15(10): 343-346.'),(7686,'168','Multivariate Analysis in Advanced Sugarcane Clones','G. Rakesh, M. Saicharan, G. Eswara Reddy, Swapna N., B. Balaji Naik and M. Vijay Kumar ','Multivariate-Analysis-in-Advanced-Sugarcane-Clones-G-Rakesh-70.pdf','',1,'Sugarcane breeding programmes require a thorough understanding of genotype performance and characteristic interrelationships. This experiment was aimed at improving selection efficiency. A field experiment was conducted at Regional Sugarcane and Rice Research Station, Rudrur, during Eksali, 2022-23. The clones of different maturity groups from Coimbatore and peninsular zones of different sugarcane research stations were planted in Randomized Block Design replicated thrice. In the present study, cluster analysis the maximum inter-cluster distance was recorded between clusters III and IV followed between clusters I and III and between clusters II and III. The greater the distance between two clusters, the greater the genetic diversity among those clusters lines. The PCA for the advanced lines exhibited a variance of 27.97 %, 18.37 %, 14.03 %, 11.46 %, and 7.71 % for the first five components and accounted for about 79.57 % of the total variation. Principal Components revealed characters viz., sucrose % at 10th month, sucrose % at 12th month, Brix % 10th month, purity % at 12th month and cane yield in PC1 and germination % at 30 days after planting (DAP), tillers at 120 DAP (\'000/ha), Shoots at 240 DAP (\'000/ha) and cane girth at 12th month were loaded in PC2, while single cane weight at 12th month, cane girth at 12th month, cane length at 12th month and CCS yield (t/ha) in PC3. In PC 4 & PC 5, Shoots at 240 DAP (\'000/ha) and Cane yield (t/ha), germination % at 30 DAP and cane length at 12th month were positively loaded. The characters mentioned instantly contributed more towards variability and thus, cluster and principal component analysis will help breeders to identification of diverse parents that can be used for future breeding programs.','Advanced clones, PCA, Principal Component Analysis, variability, canonical variant analysis','In cluster analysis the maximum inter-cluster distance was recorded between III and IV followed between cluster I and III and between II and III. The greater the distance between two clusters, the greater the genetic diversity among those clusters lines. Such highly diverse, high-performing lines would be extremely useful in a recombination breeding program to obtain highly desirable progeny. Principal Components analysis identified the importance of traits like germination % at 30 DAP, Tillers at 120 DAP (\'000/ha), Shoots at 240 DAP (\'000/ha), cane girth at 12th month, single cane weight at 12th month, cane length at 12th month, sucrose % at 10th month, sucrose % at 12th month, Brix% at 10th month, purity % at 12th month, cane yield that can be beneficial for the improvement of cane yield as well as quality in sugarcane by breeders. These traits need to be given due consideration in sugarcane breeding programs targeted for cane yield with quality. Hence multivariate analysis such as cluster and principal component analysis will help breeders to identification of diverse parents that can be used for future breeding programs in the Telangana state as well as the peninsular zones of India.','-','G. Rakesh, M. Saicharan, G. Eswara Reddy, Swapna N., B. Balaji Naik and M. Vijay Kumar (2023). Multivariate Analysis in Advanced Sugarcane Clones. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 15(10): 347-352.'),(7687,'168','Yield and Yield components of several Faba Bean (Vicia faba L.) Genotypes Analysed using Correlation and Path Coefficients','Krishna Jat, Deepa H. Dwivedi, Dilkush Meena, Sarjesh Kumar Meena, Monika Bhanwariya and Tendul Chouhan','Yield-and-Yield-components-of-several-Faba-Bean-(Vicia-faba-L.)-Genotypes-Analysed-using-Correlation-and-Path-Coefficients-Krishna-Jat-71.pdf','',1,'The underutilization of faba beans in India is a result of their low output and acreage. Despite its rich nutritional content, the present investigation aims were to quantify the relationship between yield and features associated with yield and to identify crucial qualities for indirect selection to increase faba bean grain yield. The results of the correlation analysis showed that there were highly significant (p<0.01) and. The results of the genotypic and phenotypic correlation showed that the number of branches (0.590**, 0.567**), pods (0.751**, 0.755**), seeds per pod (0.364**, 0.364**), seeds per plant (0.926**, 0.920**), and pod length (ml) (0.289*, 0.274*) all had a positive and significant correlation with the seed yield, indicating the possibility of simultaneously improving grain yield with these traits through selection. The number of seeds per plant (0.308) and the number of seeds per pod (0.574) were found to have phenotypic path coefficient study results. The high positive genotypic path coefficient direct effects on grain yield were exerted by the number of seeds per plant (0.724) and the number of seeds per pod (0.756), which had stronger positive direct impacts on grain production at both the phenotypic and genotypic levels. These traits may be used as indirect selection criteria to increase the yield of grains from faba beans.','Faba bean, Correlation, Path coefficient, Phenotype, Genotype','The number of branches per plant, the number of pods per plant, the pod volume (ml), the number of seeds per pod, and the number of seeds per plant all demonstrated extremely significant (p< 0.01) and favourable phenotypic and genotypic correlations with grain yield. These findings suggested that these qualities may be selected for while simultaneously increasing grain output. Harvest index and biomass yield exhibited the strongest direct effects on yield at both the phenotypic and genotypic levels, according to a path coefficient analysis, highlighting the significance of these characteristics for the indirect selection of faba bean accessions to increase grain output. Because of this, while planning any plant breeding strategy using these 18 genotypes, attention should be placed on these attributes.','-','Krishna Jat, Deepa H. Dwivedi, Dilkush Meena, Sarjesh Kumar Meena, Monika Bhanwariya and Tendul Chouhan (2023). Yield and Yield components of several Faba Bean (Vicia faba L.) Genotypes Analysed using Correlation and Path Coefficients. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 15(10): 353-358.'),(7688,'167','Quantification of Microclimate of Guava Wedge Grafting Success on Different Age of Rootstocks under Different Growing Environment','Neha Sharma, Anil Godara, Amit Sharma and Ankit Gavri','Quantification-of-Microclimate-of-Guava-Wedge-Grafting-Success-on-Different-Age-of-Rootstocks-under-Different-Growing-Environment-Neha-Sharma-9.pdf','',1,'An experiment was carried out to find the effect of wedge grafting success on different age of rootstock under different growing environment at CCS Haryana Agricultural University, Hisar during the year 2016-17 & 2017-18. The experiment was laid out in CRD with nine treatments and three replications to find out the suitable age for successful wedge grafting with polycap of guava rootstock cv. L-49 under different growing conditions (Open condition, Shade net 50% and Greenhouse) with different age of rootstock (8, 12 and 16 months). The results revealed that under greenhouse (temp. - 25±5ºC, Relative humidity - 70-80%) more than 12 month old rootstock takes minimum days were required for successful grafting, maximum successful grafting percentage, max. number of sprouts on rootstock, maximum number of leaves on scion and max. increase in scion length (cm), leaf area, fresh and dry weight of shoot-root followed by shade net at 8 months. This might be due to humid climatic condition played an important role in early contact of cambium layer of stock and scion resulting in easy callus formation and initiation of subsequent growth and less fluctuation between maximum and minimum temperature contributes to high success of graft union and further growth of grafts. In the experiment, the interaction between growing conditions and period after grafting was found significant. Present results suggest that highest number of spourts on rootstock, successful grafting percentage, number of sprouts on rootstock, number of leaves on scion, increase in scion length (cm), leaf area, fresh and dry weight were found best under greenhouse on 12 month old seedling followed by shade net 50%.','Guava, Rootstock age, Greenhouse, shade net, Wedge grafting','Based on the results of present investigation can be concluded that the relative humidity is major factor, which along with temperature, wind speed and lux hour influence successful wedge grafting in guava. With proper monitoring of such weather factors it may be possible to predict that protected condition for guava propagation on 12 month age rootstock can be utilized for further improvement in the technique for wedge grafting under greenhouse followed by shadenet -50% with polycap.','-','-'),(7689,'167','Economic assessment of different bio pesticides against maize stem borer (Chilo partellus Swinhoe) on Kharif maize in Udaipur region of Rajasthan','Gagandeep Singh, Amit Kumar and Vijay Kumar','Economic-assessment-of-different-bio-pesticides-against-maize-stem-borer-(Chilo-partellus-Swinhoe)-on-Kharif-maize-in-Udaipur-region-of-Rajasthan-Gagandeep-Singh-10.pdf','',1,'Maize Zea mays L., 1753 (Poaceae) has worldwide enormous economic importance because of its use in food for humans and livestock. Considering the effects of maize stem borer on maize crop yield reduction, health risks associated with chemical insecticides, and the high cost of chemical insecticides, a field experiment was conducted at the Agronomical Instructional farm and Department of Entomology, Rajasthan College of Agriculture, Udaipur, during Kharif, 2018 to compare the performance and economic efficacy of various bio pesticides against maize stem borer, as well as their impact on maize yield performance. The highest grain yield was recorded in spinosad 35 % EC (42.00 q/ha) followed by Bt (39.00q/ha), NSKE 5% (38.00 q/ha), Beauveria bassiana (35.00 q/ha), Metarhizium (33.00 q/ha) and Azadirachtin1500 ppm (30.00 q/ha), while, highest B: C ratio (22.87) was recorded in spinosad followed by Bt (17.68), Beauveria bassiana (10.31), NSKE 5% (8.77) and Metarhizium (6.99) and lowest in Azadirachtin 1500 ppm (2.34).','Maize, Maize Stem Borer, Bio Pesticides, Economic, B: C ratio, Azadirachtin','It can be concluded from the present investigation that Spinosad was highly effective for Stem borer population control and highest net returns as well (21342.86 Rs/ha /) the BC ratio is highest in case of Spinosad (1:22.87) followed by Bacillus thuringiensis (1:17.68). It should be advised to the maize growing area of Udaipur as well India to use Spinosad and Bacillus thuringiensis based products for maximum reduction of Maize stem borer population without residual effect in dry matter of basil plant parts. Bio pesticides could be applied when stem borer are few Beauveria can be suggested for a better yield without using chemical pesticide. It can be also suggested in case the farmers look for a more cost-effective control owing to their high BC ratio. Therefore, Spinosad and Beauveria bassiana might be used as insecticide for ecofriendly and cost-effective management of maize stem borer.','-','-'),(7690,'168','Effect of different media and temperature on mycelial growth of Pestalotiopsis sp., incitant of leaf spot and blight disease of cashew in western part of West Bengal','Adhikary P., Sarkar U., Jash S., Ray S.K. and Dutta S. ','Effect-of-different-media-and-temperature-on-mycelial-growth-of-Pestalotiopsis-sp.,-incitant-of-leaf-spot-and-blight-disease-of-cashew-in-western-part-of-West-Bengal-Dutta-S-72.pdf','',1,'Cashew leaf spot and blight disease caused by Pestalotiopsis sp. in the western region of West Bengal, where cashews are grown, is one of the most prevalent and emerging foliar disease and primarily affects older leaves. It severely affects the yield of the crop. The knowledge of the influence of temperature and nutritional factors on mycelial growth, sporulation and pathogenic fitness is of utmost need for understanding the physiology of this dreaded pathogen. Cultural and physiological studies of Pestalotiopsis sp. were conducted at Plant Bacteriology Laboratory, Department of Plant Pathology, Bidhan Chandra Krishi Viswavidyalaya during 2021-2022. The cultural studies were conducted to know the effect of different media on growth and sporulation of Pestalotiopsis sp. Among the different media, the maximum mycelial growth of Pestalotiopsis sp. was observed on Oat meal agar (OMA) medium (8.9 cm) followed by Potato dextrose agar (PDA) at 6 days after inoculation. Irrespective of different media, the highest mycelial growth rate (13.84 mm / day) and AUMPC (174.72) of Pestalotiopsis sp. was recorded at 22oC followed by 27˚C. However, highest sporulation was observed on potato dextrose agar (3.14 × 10-5/ mm2) followed by oat meal agar (2.35×105/ mm2) whereas it was least on Czapeck’s dox agar medium (7.85 × 10-4/ mm2). The present findings thus, indicated that 22-25oC was found to be the favorable temperature for mycelia growth of Pestalotiopsis sp. causing leaf spot and blight disease of cashewnut. Pathogenicity testing of Pestalotiopsis sp. was done on three different hosts (Mango, cashew and jackfruit) through detached leaf assay. Among these three hosts, jackfruit is found to be the most susceptible host for Pestalotiopsis sp sym-1 (cashew) isolate.','Leaf spot, Blight, Growth rate, Pestalotiopsis sp., Sporulation','In the current investigation, a total of four different culture media were tested to assess their influence on mycelial growth and sporulation of Pestalotiopsis sp. Colony diameter (8.9 cm) was significantly highest on Oat meal agar at 6 days after inoculation. Similarly, the highest mycelial growth rate (13.84 mm / day) and area under mycelial progress curve (AUMPC) (174.72) of Pestalotiopsis sp. was recorded at 22oC followed by 27˚C. Pathogenicity studies were observed on different hosts and jackfruit is found to be the most susceptible host of Pestalotiopsis sp. cashew isolate.','-','Adhikary P., Sarkar U., Jash S., Ray S.K. and Dutta S. (2023). Effect of different media and temperature on mycelial growth of Pestalotiopsis sp., incitant of leaf spot and blight disease of cashew in western part of West Bengal. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 15(10): 359-364.'),(7691,'168','Evaluation of Plant Extracts against Ralstonia solanacearum causing Storage Rot of Ginger','Sonal Kumar, Ashok Bhattacharyya, Pranab Dutta and Jayant Sahu ','Evaluation-of-plant-extracts-against-Ralstonia-solanacearum-causing-storage-rot-of-Ginger-Sonal-Kumar-73.pdf','',1,'Ginger (Zingiber officinale Rosc.), a tropical plant in the Zingiberaceae family, is grown in nearly every country due to its culinary and therapeutic qualities. It is frequently used to season, taste, and add aroma to a variety of dishes during preparation, which raises the food\'s perceived value. A complex disease known as \"storage rot\" affects ginger which is caused by Ralstonia solanacearum, Fusarium spp., and Pythium spp. Storage rot causes up to 30% loss in value of ginger after harvest in Assam. In present investigation aqueous extracts of ten plants i.e. Acorus calamus, Allamanda cathertica, Allium cepa, Allium sativum, Curcuma longa, Datura wrightii, Lasia spinosa, Laurus nobilis, Ocimum sanctum, and Piper betle were tested against R. solanacearum. The growth of bacteria was significantly reduced by 20% in aqueous extracts of A. sativum and the rest of botanicals were not able to restrict the growth of plant pathogens in vitro. Further testing at four distinct concentrations (5, 10, 15, and 20%), A. sativum showed inhibition of 6.40, 9.40, 10.80, and 11.60 mm against R. solanacearum. Thus, A. sativum can be employed as a crucial component of integrated disease management.','Ginger, Ralstonia, botanicals, Allium sativum','In the present study, out of ten botanicals tested, only A. sativum exhibited inhibition of R. solanacearum. The most effective botanicals were further tested against pathogenic bacteria at 5, 10, 15 and 20 per cent concentration respectively. A. sativum at 20 per cent showed the maximum inhibition zone followed by 15 and 10 per cent concentration. The lowest inhibition zone recorded at 5 per cent concentration. Among the three concentrations, tested for aqueous extract of each botanical, 20 per cent was found to be most effective over 15, 10 and 5 per concentrations. Thus, A. sativum has potential as a substitute for just using synthetic fungicides and can be employed as a crucial component of integrated disease management.','-','Sonal Kumar, Ashok Bhattacharyya, Pranab Dutta and Jayant Sahu (2023). Evaluation of plant extracts against Ralstonia solanacearum causing storage rot of Ginger. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 15(10): 365-370.'),(7692,'168','Studies on Seasonal Dynamics of Pink Bollworm, Pectinophora gossypiella \r\n(Saunders) on Bt Cotton\r\n','Gangappa Nayak, S. B. Patil, D. N. Kambrekar and Shamarao Jahagirdar ','Studies-on-Seasonal-Dynamics-of-Pink-Bollworm,-Pectinophora-gossypiella-Gangappa-Nayak-74.pdf','',1,'The field experiments were carried out in the farmer field of Somapur village (Dharwad taluka) during Kharif 2018-19. The peak moth activity was observed during the first week of December 46th meteorological standard week (421.50 moths / trap/week). Later the activity of moths declined gradually and become to its negligible level at December 4th week (49th MSW). The rosette flowers were ranged from 2.61 to 19.54 per cent with seasonal mean of 10.18 per cent. However, pink bollworm incidence in green bolls was noticed from the first fortnight of September (34th MSW) and increased gradually to reach its peak during the first fortnight of December (46th MSW). Total larval incidence was ranged from 5 to 81 larvae/50 bolls with a mean of 44.62 larvae /50 bolls and the green boll damage ranged from 6 to 54.00 per cent with mean of 28.25 per cent. Moreover, open boll damage was ranged from 33.58 to 41.27 per cent with a mean of 36.32 per cent during the cropping season. Furthermore, locule damage ranged from 24.50 to 48.50 per cent with mean of 35.87 per cent.','Cotton, Pectinophora gossypiella (Saunders), Sleeve trap, Moth, Boll damage','The seasonal dynamic studies helped in regarding pest appearance and its infestation at early stage of cropping period so, that helped to take up preventive measures to avoid the anticipatory crop loss.','-','Gangappa Nayak, S. B. Patil, D. N. Kambrekar and Shamarao Jahagirdar (2023). Studies on Seasonal Dynamics of Pink Bollworm, Pectinophora gossypiella (Saunders) on Bt Cotton. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 15(10): 371-374.'),(7693,'168','Impact of Vocational Training Programmes Conducted by KVK Shahdol for Employment and Income Generation among Rural Women','Kalpna Shrivastava, Seema Naberia and Prashant Singh Kaurav and Ashish Kumar Nagar ','Impact-of-Vocational-Training-Programmes-Conducted-by-KVK-Shahdol-for-Employment-and-Income-Generation-among-Rural-Women-Kalpna-Shrivastava-75.pdf','',1,'A family\'s foundation is made up of women. Vocational training is a key instrument for job preparation and women\'s empowerment. The research was conducted in Shahdol’s KVK. Stitching, mehndi design, mat making, embroidery, and soybean processing are just few of the classes that KVK has organized. From the training, 136 people were chosen to participate. A sample was taken using a three-stage sampling procedure. We employed an absolute percentage, an arithmetic mean, and a paired t test to analyze the impact of vocational training. According to the findings, vocational training has a positive impact on job opportunities and income, we also studied the obstacle which stalled the progress in their employment and provide suggestion to enhance their income.','Vocational training, participate, impact, opportunities, employment, income and women','According to the study, the majority of respondents had a low to medium level of employment and income generation. This could be attributed to the vocational training provided by KVK in various sub-areas. Improved and increased income, as well as socioeconomic empowerment as viewed by women at the village level, could be among the benefits. In comparison to other activities, stitching has seen the most involvement. Bala et al. (2019) also revealed that training on designing of garments was most effective and useful. For more effectiveness of training KVK’s and Government should provide input at low rate or make availability of resources. As a result, it can be argued that vocational training courses contribute to the economic empowerment of rural women.','-','Kalpna Shrivastava, Seema Naberia and Prashant Singh Kaurav and Ashish Kumar Nagar (2023). Impact of Vocational Training Programmes Conducted by KVK Shahdol for Employment and Income Generation among Rural Women. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 15(10): 375-378.'),(7694,'168','GC- MS Analysis of Volatile Phytochemical compounds from the Whole plant Methanolic extract of Entodon rubicundus (Mitt.) A. Jaeger. and Thyridium fasciculatum (Hook. & Grev.) Mitten','Shiwani Latwal, Meenal Sharma and Anju Rao ','GC-MS-Analysis-of-Volatile-Phytochemical-compounds-from-the-Whole-plant-Methanolic-extract-of-Entodon-rubicundus-(Mitt.)-A.-Jaeger.-and-Thyridium-fasciculatum-(Hook.-&Grev.)-Mitten-Shiwani-Latwal-100.pdf','',4,'Medicinal plants are the most formidable chemical laboratory of bioactive compounds attributed with healing properties against various ailments. The phytochemistry of the plants has been exploited to satisfy the growing demand for therapeutic needs. When it comes to potential medical use, bryophytes are among the most neglected land plants. Using the gas chromatography-mass spectrometry (GC-MS) technology, the study sought to assess potential phytochemical components and their medicinal importance in the aqueous methanol fraction of plants. Entodon rubicundus (Mitt.) A. Jaeger and Thridium fasciculatum (Hook. & Grev.) Mitten are two mosses from the Western Himalayan region belonging to the family Entodontaceae and Calymperaceae respectively. The samples were collected during their favourable season, washed, air- dried and then macerated to produce the methanolic extract. GC- MS analysis was carried out followed by the identification of volatile compounds using mass spectra library search (NIST 2.0). Five volatile constituents were detected and identified in the plant extract of Entodon rubicundus out of which Trans-13-Octadecenoic acid, methyl ester showed the highest peak area (46.58%) and the lowest peak area was shown by Methyl stearate (4.10%). In Thridium fasciculatum seven compounds were identified out of which Cyclopropaneoctanoic acid showed the highest peak area (44.95%) and 6,9 Octadecadienoic acid, methyl ester showed lowest the peak area (1.68%). To the best of our knowledge, no literature has previously been published on GC–MS and phytochemical investigations of these moss species, making it the first description of the phytochemical elements that demonstrate their pharmacological importance. The GC- MS profiling of both the mosses indicated therapeutically promising bioactive compounds with a potent anti-bacterial, anti-microbial, anti-tumor, anti-inflammatory and anti-oxidant activity which can be used in pharmaceutical industries for the development of novel drugs.','Entodon rubicundus, Thyridium fasciculatum, Mosses, GC-MS, Phytochemicals','The pharmacological use of plants as a source for the development of innovative drugs has gained widespread recognition in the last few years. To gain a thorough understanding of the phytochemical profile of the mosses found in the Western Himalayan region, a GC-MS analysis of the mosses in a methanolic solvent was conducted. The resulting compounds displayed a wide range of biological characteristics, including anti-inflammatory, anti-bacterial, anti-acne, anti-tumor, anti-cancerous, anti-oxidant, and anti-arthritic capabilities. Based on the conducted research, it is possible to conclude that both E. rubicundus and T. fasciculatum could be recommended as a plant of pharmaceutical importance. ','-','Shiwani Latwal, Meenal Sharma and Anju Rao (2023). GC- MS Analysis of Volatile Phytochemical compounds from the Whole plant Methanolic extract of Entodon rubicundus (Mitt.) A. Jaeger. and Thyridium fasciculatum (Hook. & Grev.) Mitten. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 15(5a): 647-653.'),(7695,'163','GC-MS Analysis of Volatile Phytochemical compounds from the Whole plant Methanolic extract of Entodon rubicundus (Mitt.) A. Jaeger. and Thyridium fasciculatum (Hook. & Grev.) Mitten','Shiwani Latwal, Meenal Sharma and Anju Rao','GC-MS-Analysis-of-Volatile-Phytochemical-compounds-from-the-Whole-plant-Methanolic-extract-of-Entodon-rubicundus-(Mitt.)-A.-Jaeger.-and-Thyridium-fasciculatum-(Hook.-&Grev.)-Mitten-Shiwani-Latwal-100.pdf','',1,'Medicinal plants are the most formidable chemical laboratory of bioactive compounds attributed with healing properties against various ailments. The phytochemistry of the plants has been exploited to satisfy the growing demand for therapeutic needs. When it comes to potential medical use, bryophytes are among the most neglected land plants. Using the gas chromatography-mass spectrometry (GC-MS) technology, the study sought to assess potential phytochemical components and their medicinal importance in the aqueous methanol fraction of plants. Entodon rubicundus (Mitt.) A. Jaeger and Thridium fasciculatum (Hook. & Grev.) Mitten are two mosses from the Western Himalayan region belonging to the family Entodontaceae and Calymperaceae respectively. The samples were collected during their favourable season, washed, air- dried and then macerated to produce the methanolic extract. GC- MS analysis was carried out followed by the identification of volatile compounds using mass spectra library search (NIST 2.0). Five volatile constituents were detected and identified in the plant extract of Entodon rubicundus out of which Trans-13-Octadecenoic acid, methyl ester showed the highest peak area (46.58%) and the lowest peak area was shown by Methyl stearate (4.10%). In Thridium fasciculatum seven compounds were identified out of which Cyclopropaneoctanoic acid showed the highest peak area (44.95%) and 6,9 Octadecadienoic acid, methyl ester showed lowest the peak area (1.68%). To the best of our knowledge, no literature has previously been published on GC–MS and phytochemical investigations of these moss species, making it the first description of the phytochemical elements that demonstrate their pharmacological importance. The GC- MS profiling of both the mosses indicated therapeutically promising bioactive compounds with a potent anti-bacterial, anti-microbial, anti-tumor, anti-inflammatory and anti-oxidant activity which can be used in pharmaceutical industries for the development of novel drugs.','Entodon rubicundus, Thyridium fasciculatum, Mosses, GC-MS, Phytochemicals','The pharmacological use of plants as a source for the development of innovative drugs has gained widespread recognition in the last few years. To gain a thorough understanding of the phytochemical profile of the mosses found in the Western Himalayan region, a GC-MS analysis of the mosses in a methanolic solvent was conducted. The resulting compounds displayed a wide range of biological characteristics, including anti-inflammatory, anti-bacterial, anti-acne, anti-tumor, anti-cancerous, anti-oxidant, and anti-arthritic capabilities. Based on the conducted research, it is possible to conclude that both E. rubicundus and T. fasciculatum could be recommended as a plant of pharmaceutical importance. ','-','Shiwani Latwal, Meenal Sharma and Anju Rao (2023). GC- MS Analysis of Volatile Phytochemical compounds from the Whole plant Methanolic extract of Entodon rubicundus (Mitt.) A. Jaeger. and Thyridium fasciculatum (Hook. & Grev.) Mitten. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 15(5a): 647-653.'),(7696,'168','Correlations between Yield and Yield - Attributing Traits and their Influence on Soybean','Bhumika Singh Lodhi, Sunil Holkar, Arzoo Dhakad, Monika Chouhan and Pramod Kumar ','Correlations-between-Yield-and-Yield-Attributing-Traits-and-their-Influence-on-Soybean-Bhumika-Singh-Lodhi-76.pdf','',1,'In the 2022 Kharif season, comprehensive research was undertaken at the Dryland Agriculture Research Centre, College of Agriculture, Indore, Madhya Pradesh, employing a randomized block design with dual replications. The primary focus was to discern the relationship between 13 unique traits and soybean productivity. Through the assessment of 63 advanced genotypes, compared alongside three benchmark varieties, it was ascertained that grain yield (kg/ha) held a markedly significant positive phenotypic association with attributes such as the number of primary branches per plant, plant height, pod count and weight per plant, individual plant grain yield, and biological yield(kg/ha). Additionally, a pronounced positive genotypic correlation with the grain yield was observed for factors including the duration to pod initiation, days to 50% podding, and the harvest index, among others. The study faced several challenges, including the complexities of managing a large number of genotypes and ensuring the accuracy of phenotypic measurements under variable environmental conditions. Additionally, the genetic diversity of the genotypes added layers of complexity to the analysis of phenotypic and genotypic correlations. Furthermore, the study\'s results contribute to the understanding of the genetic architecture of soybean, paving the way for the development of high-yielding, resilient varieties. In essence, this research holds promise for bolstering food security by optimizing soybean production through informed breeding strategies.','Genotypic Correlation Coefficient, Phenotypic Correlation Coefficient, Soybean, Heat map','This study illuminates the dominant role of genotypic correlations over their phenotypic counterparts in determining trait relationships in soybeans. We\'ve detailed the nexus between grain yield and its contributory attributes, with biological yield standing out as the paramount factor. Attributes like pod weight, count, plant stature, branch count, and pod initiation further substantiate the yield. Our findings, consistent with most prior research, emphasize the importance and reliability of these associations in plant breeding. However, divergent viewpoints from studies like Kuswantoro et al. (2018); Baraskar et al. (2015) underscore the intricate nature of plant genetics. Ultimately, this research champions the significance of genotypic correlations, empowering breeders to optimize crop yields and drive agricultural advancement.','-','Bhumika Singh Lodhi, Sunil Holkar, Arzoo Dhakad, Monika Chouhan and Pramod Kumar (2023). Correlations between Yield and Yield - Attributing Traits and their Influence on Soybean. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 15(10): 379-383.'),(7697,'168','Appraisal of Soil Quality Status in Salt Affected Soils of Dhorimana and Gudhamalani tehsils of Barmer district of Rajasthan','Banka Ram, R.K. Jakhar, Ranjeet Singh and Dinesh Sharma','Appraisal-of-Soil-Quality-Status-in-Salt-Affected-Soils-of-Dhorimana-and-Gudhamalani-tehsils-of-Barmer-district-of-Rajasthan-Banka-Ram-77.pdf','',1,'A field based survey was conducted for appraisal of salinity and sodicity problems of soils of Dhorimana and Gudhamalani tehsils of Barmer district of Rajasthan. Fifty seven composite surface soil samples (0-15 cm depth) were collected from the cultivated, irrigated fields during June, 2022 from thirty villages of Dhorimana and Gudhamalani tehsils. Twenty composite surface soil samples (0-15 cm depth) ten from each tehsil were also collected from adjacent cultivated, unirrigated fields on same time. The soil samples were analysed for various parameters by adopting standard methods and procedures. The majority of soils were belongs to sand to loamy sand in texture. Soils of the study area were found normal to alkaline in reaction, non saline and low in dehydrogenase activity. With respect to fertility, the organic carbon, available phosphorous and potassium were obtained low, low to medium and medium to high, respectively.','Salt affected soils, Physico-chemical properties of soil, soil quality, Electrical conductivity, pH, Organic carbon, Barmer district','The majority of soils were belongs to sand to loamy sand in texture. Soils of the study area were found normal to alkaline in reaction, nonsaline, slight to moderately sodic and low in dehydrogenase activity. With respect to fertility, the soils organic carbon, available phosphorous and potassium were obtained low, low to medium and medium to high, respectively.','-','Banka Ram, R.K. Jakhar, Ranjeet Singh and Dinesh Sharma (2023). Appraisal of Soil Quality Status in Salt Affected Soils of Dhorimana and Gudhamalani tehsils of Barmer district of Rajasthan. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 15(10): 384-392.'),(7698,'168','In vitro Analysis of Seedling Parameters in Groundnut under Induced EMS Mutagenesis','Yugandhar A., K. Srinivas Naik, Bhattu Rajesh Nayak, Kumara Joshi and G. Vijay Kumar ','In-vitro-analysis-of-seedling-parameters-in-groundnut-under-induced-EMS-mutagenesis-G-Vijay-Kumar-78.pdf','',1,'The present in vitro analysis of seedling parameters of groundnut was carried out with three genotypes (ICG2106, ICG5236 and ICG76) at Department of Genetics, Osmania University, Hyderabad. The main aim of the present work is to observe the impact of seed germination and seedling traits under induced EMS in groundnut. The seeds were treated with three different concentrations of EMS viz., 0.3%, 0.4%, and 0.5%, and the control, and kept in petri plates. The germination (%) was measured on the seventh day following treatment, while the shoot, root length and number of leaves of the seedlings were measured on the fifteenth day. The ANOVA revealed that significant differences between treatments for all three traits under study. The results also revealed that ICG76 showed highest seed germination at 0.4% and ICG 5236 recorded highest shoot length, root length and number of leaves at 0.3% EMS concentration in our study.','Groundnut, EMS, germination% and seedling traits','The results can be concluded that significant variability were observed for shoot length, root length, and number of leaves among three genotypes under various EMS concentration. The results also concluded that among three genotypes ICG76 showed highest seed germination at 0.4% and ICG 5236 recorded highest shoot length, root length and number of leaves at 0.3% EMS concentration.','-','Yugandhar A., K. Srinivas Naik, Bhattu Rajesh Nayak, Kumara Joshi and G. Vijay Kumar (2023). In vitro analysis of seedling parameters in groundnut under induced EMS mutagenesis. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 15(10): 393-397.'),(7699,'168','Proximate and Biochemical Analysis of Water Chestnut (Trapa natans Var. bispinosa Roxb) kernel as affected by various inorganic and organic sources','Sarjesh Kumar Meena, Deepa H. Dwivedi, Nirmal Kumar Meena, Monika Bhanwariya, Krishna Jat, Tendul Chouhan and Bhupendra Meena','Proximate-and-Biochemical-Analysis-of-Water-Chestnut-(Trapa-natans-Var.-bispinosa-Roxb)-kernel-as-affected-by-various-inorganic-and-organic-sources-Sarjesh-Kumar-Meena-79.pdf','',1,'The water chestnut plays a significant role in wetland zones in India, however artificial fertilizers that are harmful to human health are employed to keep up with the fast-growing production rate. The present investigation aimed to know the impact of various organic and inorganic fertilizers on the proximate value and biochemical parameters of water chestnuts. The water chestnut was treated with half of the RDF through (Urea + DAP) (T1), one-fourth of the RDF through Urea + DAP(T2), and Nano-Urea @ 4.0%. T5 Jivamrut (10%) 100% RDF. The treatment T4 i.e. nano urea (4%) significantly enhanced the value of most of the parameters. The highest N (2.68%), C (53.66%), H (8.49%), C/H ratio (6.31), protein (16.75%), S (0.29%) were most significant in T5 (@ Jivamrut 10%) and amylose (16.24%) observed in T1. For biochemical studies under different nutritional regimes where T3 (¼ RDF–Urea + DAP) had the greatest moisture (19.13%) content, T5 (@ Jivamrut 10%) had the highest TSS (3.800brix), and T4 (Nano-Urea @ 4.0%) had the highest acidity (0.13%).','Minerals, Proximate analysis, Biochemical analysis, Protein, Carbohydrate','Water chestnut is a minor fruit crop of India it is a tremendous nutritive fruit among unadopted fruit crops. Present-time proximate and biochemical analysis is a modern and popular method to detect many nutrients in one attempt. In the present investigation, the proximate result was found superior in treatment T5 (Jivamrut) and minimum T1 (control). Biochemical analysis (kernel) superior result found in treatment T5 (Jivamrut).','-','Sarjesh Kumar Meena, Deepa H. Dwivedi, Nirmal Kumar Meena, Monika Bhanwariya, Krishna Jat, Tendul Chouhan and Bhupendra Meena (2023). Proximate and Biochemical Analysis of Water Chestnut (Trapa natans Var. bispinosa Roxb) kernel as affected by various inorganic and organic sources. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 15(10): 398-402.'),(7700,'168','Aloe vera: A Review on Use as a Natural Feed Additive in Poultry','Pallavi D. Mali, S.B. Adangale, A.P. Chawke, V.D. Borkar, C.C. Chougale and Vaishnavi Khomane','Aloe-vera-A-Review-on-Use-as-a-Natural-Feed-Additive-in-Poultry-Pallavi-D-Mali-80.pdf','',1,'Use of medicinal herbs like Aloe vera, Tulsi, Neem, Ashwagandha etc. as natural growth promoters are increasing in poultry. Out of all these, Aloe vera is well-known herbal plant used in poultry. Aloe vera is rich source of vitamins, minerals, enzymes and polysaccharides. Aloe vera have antimicrobial, antifungal, antiviral, immunomodulating, anti-inflammatory and antioxidant or sedative properties. A complex mixture of bioactive compounds present in them is known for their appetizing effects, since they increase the palatability of the feed and stimulate endogenous digestive enzymes. Additionally, it has a pronounced impact on the gut microflora. Medicinal plants, containing active ingredients to promote growth, weight gain and immune-stimulant in poultry. These potentials of aloe vera drives used as feed additives in poultry to improve weight gain, feed efficiency, feed intake and improve the serum biochemical parameters.','Aloe vera, Feed additive, Performance, Composition, Poultry','It could be concluded that addition of aloe vera at various level in broiler ration has improve the growth performance of broilers in terms of gain in body weight, feed efficiency. Also, it has observed positive impact carcass traits as well as on serum blood lipid profile in poultry. Use of aloe vera might be a safe alternative to antibiotics without any detrimental effect on poultry.','-','Pallavi D. Mali, S.B. Adangale, A.P. Chawke, V.D. Borkar, C.C. Chougale and Vaishnavi Khomane (2023). Aloe vera: A Review on Use as a Natural Feed Additive in Poultry. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 15(10): 403-407.'),(7701,'168','Evaluation of different bio Pesticides against Mango Hoppers in Eastern\r\n Uttar Pradesh\r\n','Aryan Arya, Ritesh Kumar, Pawan Kumar, Saroj Chauhan and Ishtiyaq Ahad ','Evaluation-of-different-bio-Pesticides-Against-Mango-Hoppers-in-Eastern-Uttar-Pradesh-Ritesh-Kumar-81.pdf','',1,'The management of mango hopper was investigated using chemical pesticides, entomopathogens, and botanicals under field circumstances over the period of 2022-2023 at Vindhyavasini Park (Mango Orchard) located in Gorakhpur University, Gorakhpur. The experimental findings revealed that the pesticide treatment involving imidacloprid 17.8 SL at a concentration of 0.007% exhibited superior efficacy compared to all other pesticide treatments. This was evident from the highest observed mortality rates of the hopper on days 1, 3, 7, and 15 after spraying during the first, second, and third applications. The mean mortality percentages for these applications were 89.42%, 93.92%, and 95.92%, respectively. The next most effective treatment, NSKE 5%, demonstrated a mean mortality of 77.58%, 73.67%, and 78.50% for the corresponding applications. The mortality percentage in the botanical treatment using NSKE (Neem Seed Kernel Extract) was seen to be high, with values of 77.58%, 73.67%, and 78.50% recorded during the first, second, and third spray applications, respectively. The efficacy of the entomopathogenic fungus Lecanicillium lecanii 1.15%WP in managing the mango hopper was seen to be superior. The mean mortality rates 71.00%, 68.25%, and 70.75% were recorded during the first, second, and third rounds of spray treatment, respectively, under field condition. ','Entomopathogens, Mango hopper, Bio-pesticides, NSKE and Lecanicillium lecanii','The insecticide efficacy study in 2022-23 displayed that the first spray, second spray and third spray overall per cent reduction of the mango hopper was more in imidacloprid (88.90%), (88.55%) and (87.40%) and followed by NSKE (87.25%), (85.40%) and (84.61%), Lecanicillium lecanii (86.02%), (84.24%) and (82.92%). The least was recorded in neem leaf extract (81.01%), (76.88%) and (75.38%) followed by neem oil (81.88%), (77.75%) and (76.80%). Mortality of hopper per cent high in first spray, followed by second spray. Over all treatments in superior treatment was imidacloprid followed by NSKE and Lecanicillium lecanii. ','-','Aryan Arya, Ritesh Kumar, Pawan Kumar, Saroj Chauhan and Ishtiyaq Ahad (2023). Evaluation of different bio Pesticides Against Mango Hoppers in Eastern Uttar Pradesh. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 15(10): 408-414.'),(7702,'168','Effect of Micronutrient Fortification, Plant Protection Practices on Yield of Pigeonpea [Cajanus cajan(L.)] in Central Plain Region of Uttar Pradesh, India','Akhilesh Mishra, Geeta Rai and Tarun Rathore','Effect-of-Micronutrient-Fortification-Plant-Protection-Practices-on-Yield-of-Pigeonpea-Cajanus-cajan L.-in-Central-Plain-Region-of-Uttar-Pradesh-India-Akhilesh-Mishra-82.pdf','',1,'A field experiment was conducted during the Kharif season in 2017 to evaluate the effect of the mode of micronutrient application along with insecticides on the growth and yield of pigeonpea (Cajanus cajan L.) in sandy loam soil. Eight treatments consisting of micronutrients and insecticides (Urea, B, Zn, Indoxacarb, and one systemic insecticide), namely T1 [RDF i.e., Control (NPKS)], T2 (T1 + 2% urea spray at 50% flowering), T3 (T1 + 0.5% B spray at 50% flowering), T4 (T1 + 0.5% Zn spray at 50% flowering), T5 (T1 + 2% urea + 0.5% B + 0.5% Zn spray at 50% flowering), T6 (T1 + multi-micronutrient spray @ 2ml/liter of water), T7 (T1 + Indoxacarb at flowering + one systemic insecticide 15 days after the first spray), T8 (T6 + Indoxacarb at flowering + one systemic insecticide 15 days after the first spray), were tested in a Randomized Block Design (RBD) with three replications. NPKS was commonly applied in all the plots. The experimental results revealed that growth attributes (plant height, number of primary branches per plant), yield attributing traits (pods per plant, grains per pod, test weight), and yield in pigeonpea differed significantly among the different treatments and were maximized with T8. Therefore, the study suggests that considering the combined application of different micronutrients and insecticides can be beneficial for optimizing the growth and yield of pigeonpea.','Micronutrients, 50% flowering, borax, Zinc, Insecticide, Indoxacarb, yield','From the present investigation, it is concluded that the application of micronutrient sprays and insecticides can significantly improve the yield of the crop. \r\nThe experiment evaluated the effect of different treatments on the growth and yield of a pigeonpea. The treatments included the use of fertilizers, micronutrient sprays, and insecticides (Table 1). The results show that the application of T2, T5, T6, T7, and T8 increased the yield of the crop compared to the control (T1).\r\n','-','Akhilesh Mishra, Geeta Rai and Tarun Rathore (2023). Effect of Micronutrient Fortification, Plant Protection Practices on Yield of Pigeonpea [Cajanus cajan(L.)] in Central Plain Region of Uttar Pradesh (India). Biological Forum – An International Journal, 15(10): 415-420.'),(7703,'168','A Study on Consumer Willingness to Pay for Organic Food Products: Case of Shimla Town of Himachal Pradesh','Priyanka Sharma, Richa Khushwaha, Shivani Singh, Piyush Mehta and Kapil Kathuria ','A-Study-on-Consumer-Willingness-to-Pay-for-Organic-Food-Products-Case-of-Shimla-Town-of-Himachal-Pradesh-Priyanka-Sharma-83.pdf','',1,'Organic products play a vital role in human health and environment health. The present study on Consumer willingness to pay for organic food product has been conducted in Shimla town of Himachal Pradesh on 100 respondents. The key objective of the study was to assess the awareness and willingness of consumer for the organic products. This study has helped us to identify the factors that affect the consumers to pay for organic products. The study found that the willingness to pay for organic products was positive. Consumers were willing to buy organic products even if the prices of organic products rise. It has been observed that most of the people are willing to pay for organic products but some people are not willing to pay for organic products because they do not trust that these products do not contain chemicals. The survey indicates a growing preference for organic products, necessitating further product development and advancements in labelling, processing, certification, and packaging to boost demand. The study challenge is to improve consumers\' understanding of organic products and their differentiation in food choices between local and market-based options.','Organic food products, Consumer willingness, Organic farming, Consumer, Organic Product','Organically farmed products are available on the Shimla market, where consumers are willing to pay more for them. Knowledge and awareness of organic products can impact consumer perspectives and perceptions, and ultimately, their purchase decisions. The attitudes and views of consumers toward organic products can impact their purchasing decisions. Compared to other food items, the majority of respondents were more eager to buy vegetable products, and because they were more interested in buying more organic products, they would keep buying organic products even if the price of the products increased. The study reveals that consumers are attracted to organic products due to their natural, healthy, safe, nutrient-rich, fresh, chemical-free, and trendy attributes.\r\nNumerous studies comparing the pros and cons of organic and conventional food have been encouraged by the growing interest in organic food and concerns about human health, food safety, the environment, and other sensory characteristics including flavour, freshness, nutritional content, and appearance. The opinions of consumers regarding organic food are very personal. It\'s important to keep in mind that these impressions might or might not match their real purchase behaviour. Furthermore, as organic food uses less pesticides, high-quality organic food at a fair price may not only bring in more customers but also benefit the environment. Therefore, a coordinated effort by all parties, particularly the government, to highlight the benefits of eating organic food may aid in changing consumer behaviour.\r\n','-','Priyanka Sharma, Richa Khushwaha, Shivani Singh, Piyush Mehta and Kapil Kathuria (2023). A Study on Consumer Willingness to Pay for Organic Food Products: Case of Shimla Town of Himachal Pradesh. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 15(10): 421-425.'),(7704,'168','Application of DSSAT Model to Identify the Optimum Sowing Dates in Improving Pearl Millet Yield','Sarika, Jyoti Rani, Anil Kumar, Raj Singh and Chander Shekhar Dagar','Application of DSSAT Model to Identify the Optimum Sowing Dates in Improving Pearl Millet Yield-Sarika-84.pdf','',1,'Pearl millet has the potential to cope with the effects of climate change to some extent. Choosing an appropriate variety and planting date could help farmers increase their low yield. The Crop-Environmental Resource Synthesis Model for Pearl Millet (CERES-Millet) was used to stimulate crop yields during the kharif season 2018. This field experiment was laid out in a split-plot design comprised of three main plot treatments based on sowing dates namely D1 (5th July), D2 (15th July) and D3 (31st July) with sub plot treatments comprising three different cultivars viz. V1 (GHB 558), V2 (HHB 67 Improved) and V3 (HHB 272) with four replications. After simulation, the total predicted yield was 3000.89 Kg ha-1, compared to the total measured yield of 2989.56 Kg ha-1. The model overestimated the days to anthesis and physiological maturity in all the treatments while underestimating the maximum LAI. The model\'s simulation performance was found to be satisfactory and there was reasonable agreement (± 10). The simulated results were within the acceptable limit when compared to field experimental data. The performance of the model was tested with the help of MAE (Mean Absolute Error), MBE (Mean Bias Error), RMSE (Root mean square error), and PE (Percent error). The model has proved to be suitable tool for predicting phenology, maximum LAI and grain yield of pearl millet crop which could be a satisfactory support system for effective crop management decisions.','CERES-Millet model, Pearl millet, yield attributes, simulation','This study evaluated the performance of DSSAT (CERES-millet) model and the results revealed that comparison of observed and simulated days to anthesis and physiological maturity, maximum LAI and grain yield were in good agreement with observed values of growth and yield attributes for Hisar conditions. The model over estimated days to anthesis, physiological maturity and grain yield in all the treatments while under estimated the maximum LAI. The RMSE shows that the efficiency of model to predict the days to anthesis and physiological maturity is in reasonable limits. On the basis of outcome, farmers are suggested that second fortnight of June sowing was more suitable for pearl millet sowing for Hisar conditions. Simulation performance of the model was found satisfactory with reasonable agreement (±10 %) under different sowing dates. The model has proven to be a useful tool for pearl millet crop management optimization, phenology prediction, and potential yield estimation. ','-','Sarika, Jyoti Rani, Anil Kumar, Raj Singh and Chander Shekhar Dagar (2023). Application of DSSAT Model to Identify the Optimum Sowing Dates in Improving Pearl Millet Yield. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 15(10): 426-431.'),(7705,'168','Studies on Foliar Application of Growth Regulators on Fruit Quality of Guava cv. Taiwan Pink','Hemalatha Lakshmi Kumari T., Harsha Vardhan A., Omprasad J. and Uma Krishna K.','Studies-on-Foliar-Application-of-Growth-Regulators-on-Fruit-Quality-of-Guava-cv.-Taiwan-Pink-Hemalatha-Lakshmi-Kumari-T-85.pdf','',1,'The present investigation entitled “Studies on foliar application of growth regulators on fruit quality of guava cv. Taiwan pink” was carried out at Department of Fruit Science, Dr. YSRHU-College of Horticulture, Venkataramanannagudem, West Godavari district of Andhra Pradesh during January 2023 to August 2023. The experiment was laid out in a Randomized Block Design (RBD) with nine treatments and each treatment replicated thrice. The results revealed that the fruits harvested from the plants sprayed with Ethrel @ 500ppm + GA3 @ 200ppm + NAA @ 300ppm(T4) had showed significant effect on quality attributes viz., maximum TSS (10.04 °Brix), TSS/Acid ratio (33.47), total sugars (7.17 %), reducing sugars (4.58 %), non-reducing sugars (2.59 %), ascorbic acid content (219.53 mg 100 g-1pulp) and lowest titrable acidity (0.30 %). While minimum TSS (8.35 °Brix), TSS/Acid ratio (13.92), total sugars (5.76 %), reducing sugars (4.03 %), non-reducing sugars (1.73 %), ascorbic acid content (190.74 mg 100 g -1) and highest titrable acidity (0.60 %) was recorded in control-water spray (T9).','Guava, Ethrel, GA3, NAA, quality parameters','On the basis of results obtained in the present investigation, it could be concluded that, the fruits sprayed with (T4) Ethrel @ 500ppm + GA3 @ 200ppm + NAA @ 300ppm have showed better results in terms of fruit quality attributes viz., TSS, titrable acidity, TSS/Acid ratio, reducing sugars, non-reducing sugars, total sugars and ascorbic acid content.','-','Hemalatha Lakshmi Kumari T., Harsha Vardhan A., Omprasad J. and Uma Krishna K. (2023). Studies on Foliar Application of Growth Regulators on Fruit Quality of Guava cv. Taiwan Pink. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 15(10): 432-435.'),(7706,'54','Impact of Date of Sowing on incidence of chickpea Stunt Disease','Saurav Kumar and Ramesh Nath Gupta','42 BFIJ-RT-7166-Ramesh Nath Gupta-42.pdf','',1,'Chickpea is an important pulse crop in India. Crop suffers from various biotic and abiotic stresses during growing period. Among biotic stresses chickpea stunt disease caused by Bean (Pea) Leaf Roll Virus is an economical and emerging disease of chickpea in the country. Diseased plants are easily spotted in the field by their symptoms as yellow, orange or brown discoloration, small size and thickening of leaves, shortened internodes and stunted growth of plant. In Kabuli type chickpea, the colour of leaves becomes yellow while in Desi type chickpea leaves shows brown or red discoloration. Kabuli type chickpea is more susceptible than Desi type. Extent of incidence of stunt was observed 5-20 per cent in farmer’s fields. It causes 100 per cent yield loss when incidence of chickpea stunt disease in early stage of crop growth. Later stage infection during podding stage also causes yield loss 80-90 per cent. It is a limiting factor for chickpea cultivation. Present investigation was carried out to know extent of incidence of stunt disease and identify suitable date of sowing for least incidence. Chickpea was sown early on 1st November, mid sown on 15th November and late sown on 30th November. The incidence of stunt disease and its vector aphid was observed in early sown crop and found maximum disease incidence during second week of January and minimum during last week of December. In mid sown crop the incidence of stunt disease was maximum during first week of January and minimum during third week of February. During late sown crop, stunt disease was found maximum in second week of January and it was observed minimum in third week of February. The incidence of chickpea stunt disease and its vector was recorded highest in early sown crop followed by mid sown crop and least in late sown crop. ','chickpea, stunt disease, date of sowing, disease incidence','Stunt disease of chickpea is an important disease of chickpea. The severity of disease was depending upon its vector aphid. Maximum aphid population was observed during early sown crop followed by mid and late sown conditions. The incidence of chickpea stunt disease was recorded highest in early sown crop followed by mid sown crop and least in late sown crop. Late sowing crop on 30th November showed minimum incidence of chickpea stunt disease.','-','Saurav Kumar and Ramesh Nath Gupta (2019). Impact of Date of Sowing on incidence of chickpea Stunt Disease. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 11(1): 295-298.'),(7707,'60','Effect of Chickpea Stunt Disease on Yield Attributing Trait and Yield of chickpea','Saurav Kumar and Ramesh Nath Gupta','27 Effect of Chickpea Stunt Disease on Yield Attributing Trait and Yield of chickpea-Ramesh Nath Gupta-27.pdf','',1,'Chickpea is an important Rabi pulse crop of India. Chickpea stunt disease (CpSd) incited by bean (pea) leaf roll virus and transmitted by aphid is an important disease of chickpea. Diseased plants are easily spotted in the field by their yellow, orange or brown discoloration, shortened internodes and stunted growth. In India, yield loss by chickpeas stunt is 80-95 per cent. In Bihar, chickpea stunt disease is an economical and emerging problem in cultivation of chickpea. An experiment was conducted to identify suitable date of sowing with least incidence of chickpea stunt disease. CpSd adversely affected both plant height and yield in all test seven varieties in three different date of sowing. Effect of different dates of sowing on CpSd incidence was found maximum during early sowing (1st November) followed by mid sowing (15th November) and late sowing (30th November). The response of stunt disease against test seven cultivars in all three dates of sowing was assessed. Observations of plant height and yield per plant of both healthy and diseased plant were taken into consideration. Maximum reduction of plant height was recorded in early date of sowing in variety JG315 and minimum in GCP105 whereas other varieties showed intermediate reduction. Similarly maximum yield reduction in early sown was recorded in JG315 followed by BG256 and minimum in GCP 105. During mid date of sowing maximum reduction of yield was observed in JG315 and minimum in GCP105. Similarly maximum yield reduction was found in variety JG315 and minimum in GCP105. Incidence of chickpea stunt was recorded maximum in early sown followed by mid sown and minimum in late sown condition of chickpea. Among varieties minimum stunt disease incidence was observed in GCP105 and maximum in JG315. Chickpea stunt disease was found minimum in variety GCP105 during late sown crop condition.','chickpea, yield, yield attributes, stunt disease','Stunt disease of chickpea had adversely affected the yield traits and yield. It showed variable reaction during different dates of sowing on different cultivars. Minimum disease was noticed during late sown crop conditions followed by mid sown and maximum in late sown crop. Among test cultivar highest reduction in plant height and yield was observed in variety JG315 and lowest in GCP105 in all three different dates of sowing.','-','Saurav Kumar and Ramesh Nath Gupta (2019). Effect of Chickpea Stunt Disease on Yield Attributing Trait and Yield of chickpea. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 11(2): 192-195.'),(7708,'60','Reduction in Biomass due to incidence of Stunt Disease of chickpea','Saurav Kumar and Ramesh Nath Gupta','28 Reduction in Biomass due to incidence of Stunt Disease of chickpea-Ramesh Nath Gupta-28.pdf','',1,'Chickpea is an important Rabi pulse crop of India. Chickpea stunt disease (CpSd) caused by bean (pea) leaf roll virus and transmitted by aphid is an emerging disease of chickpea. It causes heavy yield losses in chickpea growing areas. An experiment was conducted to assess extent of incidence of CpSd and its effect on biomass of chickpea. Chickpea was sown in three different date of sowing at 15 days interval. Among different dates of sowing on the CpSd development was found maximum in early date of sowing followed by mid date of sowing and least in late date of sowing. Among varieties maximum incidence of stunt disease recorded in variety JG 315 was 41.72 per cent and minimum 11.94 per cent in GCP 105 in early sown crop. In mid sown crop maximum incidence of stunt disease observed in JG315 was 41.72 per cent and minimum 10.94 per cent in GCP105. Maximum incidence of stunt disease was observed in variety JG 315 was 31.63 per cent and minimum 8.09 per cent in GCP105 in late sown crop. Biomass of chickpea was adversely affected by incidence of stunt disease of chickpea. Disease plants became stunted and very sparse pod setting was observed in all three dates of sowing. Maximum reduction of biomass observed in variety JG315 was 91.72 per cent and minimum 85.88 per cent in GCP105 in early sown crop. In mid sown crop maximum reduction of biomass observed in variety JG315 was 90.28 per cent and minimum 83.06 per cent in GCP105. Maximum reduction of biomass observed in variety JG315 was 83.68 per cent and minimum 78.57 per cent in GCP105 in late sown condition of chickpea. Minimum chickpea stunt disease incidence and biomass reduction were observed during late sown condition in variety GCP105. ','chickpea, biomass, stunt disease','Stunt disease of chickpea is an important disease in chickpea cultivation. The incidence of stunt showed differential response in all seven test varieties during three dates of sowing of chickpea. Stunt disease showed stunted growth of plant due to shortened plant height and very sparse pod setting. Biomass of all test cultivars was adversely affected by the stunt disease. Maximum reduction of biomass was observed in variety JG315 and minimum in GCP105 during all three dates of sowing.','-','Saurav Kumar and Ramesh Nath Gupta (2019). Reduction in Biomass due to incidence of Stunt Disease of chickpea. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 11(2): 196-198.'),(7709,'168','Differential Response of Chickpea (Cicer arietinum L.) Genotypes under Organic and Inorganic Input Conditions','Jeevanjot Kaur, Neelam Bhardwaj and Sunidhi Tiwari','Differential-Response-of-Chickpea-(Cicer-arietinum-L.)-Genotypes-under-Organic-and-Inorganic-Input-Conditions-Jeevanjot-Kaur-86.pdf','',1,'The present investigation entitled “Genetic analysis for seed yield and related traits in chickpea (Cicer arietinum L.) under organic and chemical input conditions” was undertaken during rabi 2018 to assess the nature and magnitude of genetic variability and associations among various traits. Analysis of variance revealed significant genetic differences among chickpea genotypes for all the traits under organic and chemical input conditions except pod width and pod length under organic input conditions and nitrogen fixation under both the conditions. In general, mean and range for most of the traits were found to be higher under organic input conditions as compared to chemical input conditions. High PCV, GCV, heritability and genetic advance were observed for nodule number, nodule fresh weight, nodule dry weight and seed yield per plant under both the conditions. Under organic input conditions seed yield per plant was significantly positively correlated with secondary branches, pods per plant, nodule number, nodule fresh weight, nodule dry weight, harvest index and biological yield per plant whereas under chemical input conditions seed yield per plant was significantly positively correlated with primary branches per plant, secondary branches per plant, pods per plant, 100-seed weight, harvest index and biological yield per plant implying that these traits can act as selection indices for seed yield. On the basis of mean performance, best genotypes for seed yield common under both the conditions are 18-II, 113-P, P-30-6 and DKG-964. ','Organic input conditions, chemical input conditions, differential response, selection index','For breeding of varieties suitable for organic agriculture traits like secondary branches, pods/plant, nodule number, nodule fresh weight, nodule dry weight, harvest index and biological yield/plant are an important selection criteria whereas for inorganic input conditions primary branches/plant, secondary branches/plant, pods/plant, 100-seed weight, harvest index and biological yield/plant should be used as selection criteria. Keeping in view, the varied performance of genotypes under both the systems and the correlation pattern it can be concluded that organic agriculture needs a separate breeding program for the development of organic input responsive varieties. Similar genotypes are used for both conditions but in organic input conditions they behave better than the inorganic input conditions and their expression was different in both the conditions due to the difference in expression of genes. These results indicate the yield evaluations must be done separately in both systems to identify environment-specific as well as relatively few broadly adapted genotypes because the broadly adapted genotypes are the exception rather than the rule. There is evidence that change in conditions can influence genetic interactions among traits as well as genetic variance in traits themselves. ','-','Jeevanjot Kaur, Neelam Bhardwaj and Sunidhi Tiwari (2023). Differential Response of Chickpea (Cicer arietinum L.) Genotypes under Organic and Inorganic Input Conditions. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 15(10): 436-446.'),(7710,'168','Fungicidal Management of Basal Stem rot -A Soil Borne Diseases in Coconut','V. Govardhan Rao, B. Neeraja, N.B.V. Chalapathi Rao, A. Kireeti, V. Anoosha, Vinayak Hegde, Ravi Bhat, Kiran Kumar K.C. and B. Srinivasulu ','Fungicidal-Management-of-Basal-Stem-rot-A-Soil-Borne-Diseases-in-Coconut-V-Govardhan-Rao-87.pdf','',1,'Coconut palm is affected by a large number of diseases, among which basal stem rot (BSR) disease caused by Ganoderma lucidum and Ganoderma applanatum are the most destructive and a major limiting factor in coconut production. The research was conducted during the year 2020-21 and 2022-2023 at Dr. YSRHU-Horticultural Research Station, Ambajipeta, Dr. B.R. Ambedkar Konaseema District, Andhra Pradesh under the research project ICAR-AICRP on Palms. Results indicated that among the chemical fungicides tested under in vitro, combi fungicide formulations i.e Hexaconazole 5% + Validamycin 2.5% SC and Azoxystrobin 11% + Tebuconazole 18.3% SC (Custodia), Famaxadone 16.6% + Cymaxanil 22.1% SC, Carbendazim 12% + Mancozeb 63% WP and Hexaconazole 4 % + Zineb 68% were found most effective with an inhibition range ~ 97% to 99 % and on par with single fungicide formulations i.e Hexaconazole 5% EC, Thifluzamide 24% SC and Mancozeb 75% WP at 100ppm, 250ppm and 500 ppm concentrations tested. When the selected fungicides further tested at field level, it was noticed that T6-Root feeding of Hexaconazole 5% + Validamycin 2.5% SC @4 ml in 100 ml water + soil drenching @2ml/litre with 15 litre/palm at quarterly interval recorded 40.75.00 per cent reduction over initial at 27 months after treatment followed by T7-Root feeding of Hexaconazole 5% EC alone recorded 36.20% reduction and thirdly T4- Root feeding of Hexaconazole 5% + Validamycin-2.5% SC @4 ml in 100 ml water recorded 32.08% reduction over initial.','Basal Stem Rot, Coconut, Ganoderma, Fungicides, Root Feeding, Soil Drenching','Management of Basal stem rot disease in coconut with systemic fungicides were found highly effective as they can penetrate and spread to different parts of the plant. Root feeding of combi and systemic fungicides- Hexaconazole 5% + Validamycin-2.5% SC @4 ml in 100 ml water + soil drenching @2ml/litre- 15 litre/palm is found affective and advisable to manage the disease at field level.','-','V. Govardhan Rao, B. Neeraja, N.B.V. Chalapathi Rao, A. Kireeti, V. Anoosha, Vinayak Hegde, Ravi Bhat, Kiran Kumar K.C. and B. Srinivasulu (2023). Fungicidal Management of Basal Stem rot -A Soil Borne Diseases in Coconut. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 15(10): 447-453.'),(7711,'168','Occurrence, Identification and Mass Culturing of Native Isolates of Entomopathogenic Nematodes (EPNs)','Babita Kumari, Anil Kumar, Vinod Kumar, Sujata and Preeti Vashisht ','Occurrence, Identification and Mass Culturing of Native Isolates of Entomopathogenic Nematodes (EPNs)-Babita Kumari-88.pdf','',1,'Many rhabditid nematodes like Metarhabditis belonging to the bacteriophage group are considered to be necromenic associates of insects and used to be facultative entomopathogenic nematodes (EPNs). In the present study, for isolation of EPNs, a total of 280 soil samples were collected from different agricultural localities in three district of Haryana during 2019-2020. Out of them, 83 soil samples contained EPNs with 29.6 per cent frequency of occurrence. The insect pathogenicity of nematodes was tested by “Galleria mellonella baiting” method. On the basis of morphological and morphometric characterization, these isolates were identified as Metarhabditis amsactae, (Nematoda: Rhabditidae). Metarhabditis amsactae was characterized by acuticular striations relatively fine in male. Reproductive system monorchic, testis single reflexed. Spicules paired and symmetrical, ventrally arcuate. Gubernaculum well-developed, oval shaped. Bursa leptoderan with eight pairs of genital papillae. Third-stage juvenile ensheathed in cuticle of second stage juveniles. Sheath free anteriorly in third-stage juveniles, firmly bound to the posterior region of the body. These nematodes can be mass culturing in vivo and in vitro, and safely used against various insect pests of different crops and vegetables. ','Entomopathogenic nematodes, Metarhabditis amsactae, Galleria mellonella, frequency, mass culturing','On the basis of results obtained in present investigations, it may be concluded that 83 samples contained EPNs, out of 280 soil samples collected from different localities with frequency of occurrence 29.6 per cent. Maximum samples were collected from ber in which frequency of occurrence of EPNs was recorded 58.9 per cent. Fifty one soil samples collected from sapota, grapes, sesame and rose did not show presence of EPNs. Six isolates (strains) viz., HAR-St-I, HAR-St-II, HAR-St-III, HAR-Ht-I, HAR-Ht-II and HAR-Ht-III were selected from the EPNs isolated andidentified as Metarhabditis amsactae on the basis of morphological and morphometric characterization. In Wout’s medium-I, mass culturing of strain HAR-St-II was more than strain HAR-Ht-III, both after 30 and 60 days. Multiplication of both strains of M. amsactae was higher after 30 days than after 60 days. ','-','Babita Kumari, Anil Kumar, Vinod Kumar, Sujata and Preeti Vashisht (2023). Occurrence, Identification and Mass Culturing of Native Isolates of Entomopathogenic Nematodes (EPNs). Biological Forum – An International Journal, 15(10): 454-461.'),(7712,'168','Study of Genetic variability in Pea (Pisum sativum L.) during rabi Season at Mid Hills of Himachal Pradesh','Priyam Thakur, Ritika Singh, Alok Kumar, Anupam Kumar and Shivani Kaundal ','Study-of-Genetic-variability-in-Pea-(Pisum-sativum-L.)-during-rabi-Season-at-Mid-Hills-of-Himachal-Pradesh-Priyam-Thakur-89.pdf','',1,'A field experiment was conducted on thirty genotypes including two checks were grown in a RBD with three replication during rabi 2022 at Research Farm School of Agriculture, Abhilashi University Chailchowk Mandi, Himachal Pradesh to estimate the parameters of variability and association of important characters with yield in pea. Analysis of variance showed significant differences among the genotypes for all the characters under study. The phenotypic coefficient of variation (PCV) was higher than corresponding genotypic coefficient of variation (GCV). The PCV and GCV both were observed high for number of pods per node, number of seed per pod, seed yield and harvest index. High heritability coupled with high genetic advance in percent of mean were recorded for secondary branches per plant, pod length, number of seed per pod and seed yield which indicated the presence of both additive and non additive gene action thus providing scope for improvement of these characters, through hybridization and selection. Therefore, from the above obtained results it can be concluded that the characters studied are governed by additive gene effect. Hence adoption for selection of elite genotypes on the basis of these characters will result in effective crop improvement for higher yield and yield attributing characters.','Variability, ANOVA, Mean, PCV, GCV','In conclusion, analysis of variance revealed significant mean sum of square due to genotypes for all traits under study. The genotypes Palam matar-1, Punjab-89, IC-269558, IC-204123, IC-208933, IC-208667, IC-109303 and IC-109553 exhibited high mean performance for different characters i.e. days to 50 per cent flowering, days to pod harvesting stage, days to 75 per cent maturity, pod length, number of pod per plant, plant height, number of primary branches per plant, number of secondary branches per plant, number of pods per nodes, 100 seed weight, pod length, number of seed per pod, dry matter yield, seed yield and harvest index were found to be superior for mean performance. The PCV and GCV both were observed high for number of pods per node, number of seed per pod, seed yield and harvest index. Thus these characters provide good source of variation and hence they are useful in crop improvement. High heritability were recorded for plant height, number of primary branches per plant, number of secondary branches per plant, number of pods per node, pod length, number of seed per pod, dry matter yield, seed yield and harvest index. High genetic advance as per cent mean were recorded for plant height, number of primary branches per plant, number of secondary branches per plant, number of pods per node, pod length, number of pod per plant, number of seed per pod, dry matter yield, seed yield and harvest index. On the basis of overall finding of the present study, out of twenty eight genotypes, seven genotypes viz, IC-269558, IC-204123, IC-208933, IC-208667, IC-109303, IC-109553, IC-208667were found to be superior for yield characters. Further, these germplasm accessions could be utilized in the breeding programme to develop high yielding genotypes.','-','Priyam Thakur, Ritika Singh, Alok Kumar, Anupam Kumar and Shivani Kaundal (2023). Study of Genetic variability in Pea (Pisum sativum L.) during rabi Season at Mid Hills of Himachal Pradesh. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 15(10): 462-467.'),(7713,'168','Effect of different Levels of Irrigation and Nitrogen on Growth and Yield of Bt Cotton Grown on Alfisols','S.G. Mahadevappa, G. Sreenivas, D. Raji Reddy, A. Madhavi and S.S. Rao','Effect-of-different-Levels-of-Irrigation-and-Nitrogen-on-Growth-and-Yield-of-Bt-Cotton-Grown-on-Alfisols-SG-Mahadevappa-90.pdf','',1,'Marginal soils with shallow depth, low fertility status and low and erratic distribution of rainfall are the important factors affecting cotton growth, development and seed cotton yield and its optimization is important for sustainable production of the cotton. The best irrigation schedule and nitrogen level for Bt cotton in alfisols in Southern Telangana were determined through a field experiment carried out in the kharif of 2015 at the Agricultural Research Institute, Rajendranagar. Rainfed cotton was significantly inferior to irrigation at 0.8 IW/CPE, which resulted in significantly higher plant height (115 cm), dry matter at first picking (241 g plant-1), bolls plant-1 (22), seed cotton yield (1965 kg ha-1), lint yield (711 kg ha-1), stalk yield (2554 kg ha-1), and nitrogen uptake (99 kg ha-1). Significantly greater amounts of nitrogen were found in the following parameters: plant height (127 cm), dry matter at first picking (265 g plant-1), days to reach boll development (98 days), number of bolls plant-1 (22), boll weight (5.1 g), seed index (9.7 g), and seed cotton content. The notable rise in both yield and yield attributes might potentially be attributed to beneficial effects on growth attributes such as plant height, increased bolls plant-1, accumulation of dry matter plant-1, and its subsequent translocation towards sink, which boosted the yield of seed cotton. It is determined that for Bt cotton cultivated in alfisols, a higher seed cotton yield can be achieved by applying nitrogen at a rate of 150 kg ha-1 and scheduling irrigation at 0.4 IW/CPE.','Irrigation, Nitrogen, Cotton (Gossypium hirsutum L.)','The experiment\'s results indicate that higher kapas yields of Bt cotton in the alfisols of the Southern Telangana Zone were achieved by applying nitrogen at a rate of 150 kg ha-1 and scheduling irrigation at 0.4 IW/CPE.','-','S.G. Mahadevappa, G. Sreenivas, D. Raji Reddy, A. Madhavi and S.S. Rao (2023). Effect of different Levels of Irrigation and Nitrogen on Growth and Yield of Bt Cotton Grown on Alfisols. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 15(10): 468-472.'),(7714,'168','Socio-economic and Personal Characteristics of the Beneficiaries under PM-KISAN Samman Nidhi Scheme','Rishabh Singh Gaur, A.K. Paswan, Biswajit Mallick and Ramesh C. Bunkar ','Socio-economic-and-Personal-Characteristics-of-the-Beneficiaries-under-PM-KISAN-Samman-Nidhi-Scheme-Rishabh Singh Gaur-91.pdf','',1,'The PM-KISAN Samman Nidhi Scheme was introduced by the central government in December 2018 to assist farmers in purchasing various agricultural products. From February 2019, the eligible farmers were receiving assistance of rupees 6000 per year in three payment mode of 2000 rupees in each installment. 120 PM-KISAN recipients were selected from Kanpur Dehat district of Uttar Pradesh for the research. Primarily socio-economic and personal characteristic of each respondent was considered for the study. According to the study, the majority of respondents (61.66%) belonged to the older age group, were functionally illiterate (30.83%), belonged to other backward caste (45%), had small families (87.50%) and small land holdings (45.00%). They were also members of only one organization (38.33%) and had medium levels of annual income (65.83%) and farming experience (57.5%). The results also showed that most respondents have a moderate level of risk aversion, economic drive, scientific orientation, and innovativeness. Overall, scheme is successful in the study locale though respondents were suggested for annual revision of installments. ','Farmers, Personal Characteristics, PM-KISAN, Scheme, Socio-Economic','PM-KISAN is a central sponsored scheme popularized to fulfill the financial need of Indian famers. The above study tried to find out the socio-economic profile of the farmers in selected study locale. Overall findings of the study stated that, the majority of respondents in the older age group who were functionally literate belonged to the OBC (Other Backward Caste), whereas the majority of beneficiaries had tiny families, little land, and had small families. The survey also revealed that the majority of respondents belonged to only one organization, earned a moderate yearly family income, and had a moderate amount of agricultural experience. The study\'s findings also showed that the majority of respondents have a moderate level of risk aversion, economic drive, scientific orientation, and innovativeness. The empirical findings of the study can produce helping hands for the future researchers, reviewers, policymakers to study impact of the similar type of research. ','-','Rishabh Singh Gaur, A.K. Paswan, Biswajit Mallick and Ramesh C. Bunkar (2023). Socio-economic and Personal Characteristics of the Beneficiaries under PM-KISAN Samman Nidhi Scheme. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 15(10): 473-477.'),(7715,'168','A Study on Socio-economic Status of Bt Cotton Growers of Marathawad Region of Maharashtra','Akash Laxman Ambhure, Swati Suman and Sanju Saha ','A-Study-on-Socio-economic-Status-of-Bt-Cotton-Growers-of-Marathawad-Region-of-Maharashtra-Swati-Suman-92.pdf','',1,'Cotton is one of the major cash crops of Marathawad region but it faces significant challenges, including considerable pest damage and low yields. Bt cotton appears to be a possible solution to these major issues. The present study on socio-economic status of cotton growers of Marathawad region of Maharashtra was carried on limited number of farmers. Hence the finding will not be generalized and applicable only to the research area. The study was taken up in Selu, Jintur and Pathri block of Parbhani district with a sample size of 120 respondents. The farmers interviewed personally by a well-structured interview schedule. The data was coded, tabulated and analyzed using suitable statistical tools. The profile of the farmers of Bt cotton reveals that majority of them were middle aged, educated up to high school, had 2 to 4 ha of land holdings, 0.33 to 1.41 ha of area under Bt cotton, medium level of annual income, medium level of social participation and medium level of economic motivation. The study may prove beneficial to the policy makers and stakeholders in decision making and agricultural development.','Bt cotton, Marathawad region, Socio-economic status','It was concluded from the above analysed data that majority of the Bt cotton growers (57.5%) were from middle age group (36 to 55 years) and most of them (46.66 %) were educated up to high school level. Most (42.5%) of the Bt cotton growers had medium size of land holding i.e., 2.01 to 4.00 ha and majority (80.83%) of the respondents had medium area under Bt cotton. Three fourth (75%) of the Bt cotton growers were having medium annual income i.e., Rs. 54,023 to Rs.1,54,212. Majority (52.5%) of the Bt cotton growers had medium level of social participation and majority (65.84%) of the respondents had a medium level of economic motivation. The data reveals the socio-economic status of the cotton growers of Marathawad region which will further help policy makers and other stakeholders in decision making and agricultural and rural development. ','-','Akash Laxman Ambhure, Swati Suman and Sanju Saha (2023). A Study on Socio-economic Status of Bt Cotton Growers of Marathawad Region of Maharashtra. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 15(10): 478-481.'),(7716,'168','Population Dynamics and Management of Shoot and Fruit Borer (Earias vittella F.) on Okra with Newer Insecticides','Suman Shivani, Badaya Ashok Kumar, Saxena Sakshi, Naveen and Kumar Neeraj ','Population-Dynamics-and-Management-of-Shoot-and-Fruit-Borer-(Earias-Vittella-F.)-on-Okra-with-Newer-Insecticides-Suman-Shivani-93.pdf','',1,'The fluctuation in weather parameters can significantly influence pest populations in okra crops. Pests are affected by various weather-related factors, which can either promote or limit their population growth. So, the present investigation was carried out to study the population dynamics and management of shoot and fruit borer with newer insecticides in Okra. The population of shoot and fruit borers was first recorded during the 35th standard meteorological week (SMW) which attained its peak (20.25% fruit damage) during the 38th SMW. After that, a tendency towards a decline in the pest population was observed up to the harvest i.e., 41st SMW. Shoot and fruit borer, Earias vittella Fabricius incidence correlated with weather parameters indicated that morning relative humidity showed a significant positive correlation (r = 0.89) whereas minimum temperature (r = -0.53) and wind velocity (r = -0.67) showed significant negative correlation. In the field experiment, all the insecticidal treatments recorded significantly less fruit damage as compared to the control. Among the newer insecticides, abamectin 1.9% EC @ 987 ml/ha treated plot was recorded with the least fruit damage (5.27%) and produced the highest fruit yield (68.33 q/ha). However, afidopyropen 50 g/l DC @ 600 ml/ha was found economical and most effective with the highest cost-benefit ratio (1:22.3) followed by tolfenpyrad 15% EC @ 1000 ml/h (1:15.1). This integrated approach can help reduce crop losses and ensure a more sustainable and profitable okra production system.','Abamectin, afidopyropen, fruit infestation, novel insecticides, weather parameters','From the present investigation, it can be concluded that the incidence of E. vitella was first recorded during the 35th SMW and available up to the 41st SMW. The population of pests started increasing sharply from the 36th SMW and reached its peak during the 38th SMW. Correlation studies revealed that morning relative humidity showed a significant positive correlation while minimum temperature and wind velocity showed a significant negative correlation with shoot and fruit borer damage. Also, the overall superiority of afidopyropen 50 g/l @ 600 ml/ha was recorded among all the treatments due to the highest economic return marked the effect on reduction of pest damage. Although the highest net fruit yield was recorded in abamectin 1.9% EC @ 987 ml/ha due to the highest cost of treatment, economically this treatment is not considered as most effective treatment. The next effective treatment in higher fruit and economic return was recorded as tolfenpyrad 15% EC@ 1000 ml/ha. Hence, for sustainable Okra production, it is necessary to replace old-generation insecticides with safer and novel chemistry compounds with a distinct and unique mode of action.','-','Suman Shivani, Badaya Ashok Kumar, Saxena Sakshi, Naveen and Kumar Neeraj (2023). Population Dynamics and Management of Shoot and Fruit Borer (Earias vittella F.) on Okra with Newer Insecticides. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 15(10): 482-487.'),(7717,'168','Bitter Gourd, Momordica charantia (L.) a Potential Botanical Pesticide for the Management of Fall Armyworm, Spodoptera frugiperda (J.E. Smith)','Pavan Kumar Annepu, Kota Sathish, Arunsaikumar K., Vavilapalli Rajesh, Lokesh Kondreddi, Snehanjali Boni, Anitha Madapakula and Jaba Jagdish ','Bitter-Gourd,-Momordica-charantia-(L.)-a-Potential-Botanical-Pesticide-for-the-Management-of-Fall-Armyworm,-Spodoptera-frugiperda-(J.E.-Smith)-Jaba-Jagdish-94.pdf','',1,'An experiment was conducted to determine the efficacy of different botanical extracts against fall armyworm (FAW), Spodoptera frugiperda (J.E. Smith), under lab conditions at Kanayo F Nawanze Crop Protection Laboratory, ICRISAT, Patancheru. FAW is a transboundary highly destructive pest that continue to spread because it has unique biological characteristics, its high migration and reproductive ability. Its high pestiferous nature poses an immense challenge to Indian agriculture because India is a tropical country that favours high multiplication year-round and reliance on chemicals causes’ pesticides resistance, expensive for farmers and cause potential environmental contamination. Hence authors were focused on locally available bitter gourd extracts to evaluate the insecticidal properties and management of S. frugiperda. The results were revealed that bitter gourd seed, leaf, and pulp extract caused over 62.0, 54.0, 46.0% larval mortality after 72 hours of application. The experiment with three treatments and three replications in completely randomized design (CRD). The study clearly shows that botanical extracts are very effective in controlling FAW under lab bioassays. Bitter gourd extracts that demonstrated high efficacy against FAW larvae could be used in integrated pest management (IPM) strategies for small and marginal holder farmers in semi-arid tropics regions of Asia and Africa.','Momordica charantia, Spodoptera frugiperda, Toxicity, and Integrated Pest Management','The experiment demonstrated that bitter gourd treatments influenced various parameters of fall armyworm, including survival rates, larval and pupal periods, physical characteristics of larvae, and adult parameters such as egg period, fecundity, and wing span. Due to the promising biological results, Momordica charantia extracts can be potentially used for the development of new pesticide formulations for the alternative control of S. frugiperda and other pest insects.','-','Pavan Kumar Annepu, Kota Sathish, Arunsaikumar K., Vavilapalli Rajesh, Lokesh Kondreddi, Snehanjali Boni, Anitha Madapakula and Jaba Jagdish (2023). Bitter Gourd, Momordica charantia (L.) a Potential Botanical Pesticide for the Management of Fall Armyworm, Spodoptera frugiperda (J.E. Smith). Biological Forum – An International Journal, 15(10): 488-492.'),(7718,'147','Evaluation of Coloured Shade Nets and Nutrients on Vegetative Parameters of Pot Foliage and Living Wall Plant Cordyline terminalis in Rainy Season','Sadhana Swastika, Sashikala Beura, Manas Ranjan Nath, Anupama Baliarsingh, Pragnya Paramita Mishra and Ruchita Panda ','Evaluation-of-Coloured-Shade-Nets-and-Nutrients-on-Vegetative-Parameters-of-Pot-Foliage-and-Living-Wall-Plant-Cordyline-terminalis-in-Rainy-Season-Sashikala-Beura-136.pdf','',1,'The present study was achieved to evaluate the influence of different colour shade nets (white and green) with 50% shade along with control (without shade net) and nutrients viz., NPK 19:19:19 @ 1% (0.25 % at monthly intervals for 4 months) and 2% (0.25 % at fortnight intervals) on vegetative parameters of Cordyline terminalis. This experiment was laid out in Completely Randomized Design (CRD) with three replications in the Department of Floriculture & Landscaping, College of Agriculture, OUAT, Bhubaneswar during 2018-19. Cordyline terminalis grown under white shade net with foliar application of NPK 19:19:19 @ 1% exhibited best performance for vegetative growth parameters in terms of plant height (38.01) cm, internode length (4.81) cm, petiole length (12.60) cm, chlorophyll content (56.65), leaf area (73.51 cm2) and no. of leaves per plant (27.36) during rainy season. White shade nets were found superior in improving vegetative parameters and hence they can be used in place of the commercially used green shade net for improved growth of Cordyline. The revealed data can be utilized for more advanced studies for improvement of living wall and pot foliage. Peak production during rainy season is favorable for the growers to produce foliage plants for vertical gardening.','Cordyline terminalis, colour shade nets, foliar application, vegetative parameters, living wall, pot foliage, rainy season, vertical gardening','In comparison to green shade net and control, white-colored shade nets with NPK 19:19:19 @ 1% during the rainy season were found to be superior in enhancing the majority of the plant characteristics. Because of their higher plant height, inter-node length, leaf area, chlorophyll content, number of leaves, and other crucial properties, it was determined that they were the best shade nets for commercial growth of Cordyline terminalis. Therefore, for living wall plants and potted plants, white shade net can be suggested as a substitute for the green shade net utilized in commercial cultivation.','-','Sadhana Swastika, Sashikala Beura, Manas Ranjan Nath, Anupama Baliarsingh, Pragnya Paramita Mishra and Ruchita Panda (2022). Evaluation of Coloured Shade Nets and Nutrients on Vegetative Parameters of Pot Foliage and Living Wall Plant Cordyline terminalis in Rainy Season. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 14(4a): 798-801.'),(7719,'168','Dissipation analysis of Difenaconazole (25 EC) on apple under temperate conditions of Kashmir','Sakib N., Rather M.F., Bhat Z.A., Mukhtar M., Wani A.A., Sharma M.K. , Sultan A., Bhat M.A.','Dissipation-analysis-of-Difenaconazole-(25-EC)-on-apple-under-temperate-conditions-of-Kashmir-Najmu-Sakib-96.pdf','',1,'In present study, the dissipation pattern and persistence of foliar application of difenaconazole (25 EC) on leaves and fruits of apple were investigated at 300 g ai ha-1 and 600 g ai ha-1. The samples were obtained at different time intervals viz., 0, 1, 3, 5, 7, 10, 15, 20, 25, and 30 days after treatment. The cost-effective, efficient, and robust QuEChERS method coupled with a gas chromatography mass spectrometery was used to analyze the residual behaviour of difenaconazole. The residual concentration in leaves and fruits dropped below the detection limit on 30th day at 300 g ai ha-1 and 25th and 30th day at 600 g ai ha-1 during 2021. The mean recovery rates in leaves and fruits ranged from 84.80 to 101.6 per cent and the relative standard deviation was 1.69 to 3.97 per cent. The half-life of difenaconazole in leaves and fruits were 9.9 to 10.19 days and 5.21 to7.3 days at single and double dose, respectively. In terms of pre-harvest intervals (PHI), the time required for residues to decrease to permissible levels (maximum residue limits) ranged from 6.8 to 11.75 days for the single dose and from 3.65 to 8.54 days for the double dose.','Difenaconazole, Dissipation, Residue, Half-life, QuEChERS, Recovery','From the present investigation it was clearly depicted that the dissipation behaviour of difenaconazole showed the different dissipation rates on leaves and fruits of apple. In the context of leaf samples, the observed half-life and the corresponding waiting period were 9.9 and 10.19 days at the recommended dosage, and 6.8 and 11.75 days at double the recommended dosage. As for fruit samples, the half-life and associated waiting period were 5.21 and 7.53 days at the recommended dose, and 3.65 and 8.54 days at double the recommended dose. It\'s worth noting that the reduction of residues in both dosages adhered to the principles of first-order kinetics for degradation.','-','Sakib N., Rather M.F., Bhat Z.A., Mukhtar M., Wani A.A., Sharma M.K. , Sultan A., Bhat M.A. (2023). Dissipation analysis of Difenaconazole (25 EC) on apple under temperate conditions of Kashmir. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 15(10): 498-501.'),(7720,'168','Principal Components Analysis for Yield and Quality Contributing Traits in Field Pea (Pisum Sativum L.) Genotypes','Neelesh Patel, J.P. Lakhani, Sanjay Kumar Singh, Pankaj Chauhan and Dhuruv Dangi ','Principal-Components-Analysis-for-Yield-and-Quality-Contributing-Traits-in-Field-Pea-(Pisum-Sativum-L.)-Genotypes-Neelesh-Patel-97.pdf','',1,'The study involved the examination of 43 field pea genotypes, focusing on their yield, and quality traits, and employed Principal Component Analysis. Field pea genotypes were evaluated in Randomized Complete Block Design (RCBD) in three replications along with three different dates of sowing at BSP Soybean Unit, Department of Genetics & Plant Breeding, College of Agriculture, JNKVV, Jabalpur during Rabi Season 2022-2023. The Principal Components Analysis was applied on 19 different yield and quality traits pooled under various environmental conditions. Out of nineteen, only 7 principal components (PCs) exhibited more than 1 eigen value and showed 79.34 % variability among the traits studied. The PC1 accounted the highest of total variability 24.548%, whereas, PC2, PC3, PC4, PC5, PC6 and PC7 exhibited 15.31%, 11.13%, 9.65%, 7.36%, 5.94% & 5.44% respectively. Rotated component matrix revealed that the PC1, PC2 and PC3 accounted for yield related traits. PC4, PC5 and PC7 contributed yield and quality with traits. Highest PC score was recorded in PC1 HFP 94-12 (4.268) & in PC2 Kalamatar (4.582), PC3 Tall Green (Hybrid) (2.560), PC4 HUP 2 (2.908), PC5 Batana Moolchand (2.63) and PC7 KFP 151 (2.398). The identified genotypes IPFD 99-25, Kalasona, Batana Moolchand and Gol Batra Tenduna showed their presence in two or more than two principal components. The genotypes contributing to the higher PC value will be of great importance as parental lines for the transfer of these traits to the recipients. The genotypes contributing high PC scores with sharing their presence in more than one component will be utilized as breeding line for hybridization programme to identify the transgressive segregation in the population.','PCA, Yield and Quality, Variability, Field Pea','Genotypes posses high PC scores in the pooled environments will have great potential for the selection of desired genotypes dominated with particular traits. The finding revealed that the genotypes viz. HFP 94-12, Kalamatar, IPDF 99-25, KPMR 485, Tall Green (Hybrid), Tall White (Hybrid), HUP 2, Batana Moolchand and Gol Batra Tenduna reported highest positive PC values and also IPFD 99-25, Kalasona, Batana Moolchand and Gol Batra Tenduna genotypes showed their presence in two or more than two principal components. These genotypes with high PC values are crucial for transferring traits to recipients, and those genotypes present in multiple principal components will be utilized as breeding lines for hybridization programs to identify transgressive segregation in the population. The genotypes found to be more promising as per the standard checks will be utilized in breeding programme to transfer the desired traits after hybridization. The lines showed good performance will be tested under AICRP-MULLaRP for the release as a variety.','-','Neelesh Patel, J.P. Lakhani, Sanjay Kumar Singh, Pankaj Chauhan and Dhuruv Dangi (2023). Principal Components Analysis for Yield and Quality Contributing Traits in Field Pea (Pisum sativum L.) Genotypes. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 15(10): 502-507.'),(7721,'168','Enhancing Growth, Yield and Economic Viability of Fig (Ficus carica L.) cv Brown Turkey through Plant Growth Regulators and Foliar Nutrient Applications','V. Ishwarya, T. Suresh Kumar, R.Preetham Goud, P. Harikanth and G. Jyothi ','Enhancing-Growth,-Yield-and-Economic-Viability-of-Fig-(Ficus-carica-L.)-cv-Brown-Turkey-through-Plant-Growth-Regulators-and-Foliar-Nutrient-Applications-V-Ishwarya-98.pdf','',1,'An investigation was carried out to study the “Effect of plant growth regulators and foliar application of nutrients on growth, yield and economics of fig (Ficus carica L.) cv. Brown Turkey” during the year 2022-2023 at Sadashivpet village, Sangareddy district, Telangana State. The experiment was laid out in a randomized block design with seventeen treatments comprising of a combination of two plant growth regulators viz., GA3 and NAA with two doses of 50 and 30 ppm and four nutrients 1% Ca (NO3)2, 1% KNO3, 0.5% 19-19-19 and 0.5% Borax along with a control treatment. The results of the experiments revealed that among the different treatments imposed, the treatment T1(GA3 @ 50 ppm + 1% Ca (NO3)2) recorded improved physical parameter like maximum fruit length (50.82 mm), fruit diameter (45.35 mm) and average fruit weight (41.30 g) where as treatment T9 (NAA @ 50 ppm + 1% Ca (NO3)2) recorded maximum number of fruits (393.32) and fruit yield per tree (15.94 kg). Economic studies indicated that, the treatment T9 (NAA @ 50 ppm + 1% Ca (NO3)2) recorded maximum benefit: cost ratio (4.25) and was followed by T1 (GA3 @ 50 ppm + 1% Ca (NO3)2).','Ber, growth, nutrients, plant growth regulators, yield','Spray application of GA3 @ 50 ppm + 1% Ca (N03)2 and NAA @ 50 ppm + 1% Ca (NO3)2 enhanced the fruit physical parameters fruit length, diameter, average fruit weight, number of fruits per tree and fruit yield per tree. Higher gross returns, net monetary returns and profitability was registered with spray application of NAA @ 50 ppm + 1% Ca (NO3)2 followed by GA3 @ 50 ppm + 1% Ca (NO3)2 can be recommended for fig for higher yield attributes, yield and monitory returns.','-','V. Ishwarya, T. Suresh Kumar, R.Preetham Goud, P. Harikanth and G. Jyothi (2023). Enhancing Growth, Yield and Economic Viability of Fig (Ficus carica L.) cv Brown Turkey through Plant Growth Regulators and Foliar Nutrient Applications. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 15(10): 508-513.'),(7722,'168','Effect of Brown Manuring on Performance of Rice Bean in Aerobic Rice – Rice Bean Cropping System','Jyoti Jadipujari, Lalitha, B.S., H.M. Jayadeva, Anand, S.R. and G.G. Kadalli ','Effect-of-Brown-Manuring-on-Performance-of-Rice-Bean-in-Aerobic-Rice–Rice-Bean-Cropping-System-Jyoti-Jadipujari-99.pdf','',1,'The decline in soil fertility resulting from intensive chemical use in modern farming underscores the critical need for sustainable methods like brown manuring. The field experiment was conducted at Agronomy field unit, ZARS, UASB, GKVK, Bengaluru during summer and kharif seasons of 2022 and 2023 to study effect of brown manuring on performance of rice bean in aerobic rice – rice bean cropping system. The experiment was composed of three factors viz., factor I: Brown manuring (C1-Rice and C2-Rice + Sunhemp), factor II: RDF levels (N1 - 75% RDF, N2 - 100% RDF and N3 - 125% RDF) and factor III: Herbicides [H1 - No herbicide, H2 - Pendimethalin (1000 g a.i. ha-1) PE fb Pyrazosulfuron (25 g a.i. ha-1) (POE at 25 DAS) and H3 - Bensulfuron methyl + Pretilachlor 6.6 % G (660 g a.i. ha-1) PE fb Bispyribac sodium (25 g a.i. ha-1) 25-30 DAS] with total of 18 treatment combinations replicated thrice and laid out in RCBD design with Factorial concept. Rice + sunhemp recorded higher plant height (42.99 cm), dry matter production (25.52 g plant-1), number of pods (44.02plant-1), grain yield (1241 kg ha-1) and haulm yield (2811 kg ha-1). Among different RDF levels, 125% RDF recorded higher plant height (41.96 cm), dry matter production (24.91 g plant-1), number of pods (42.97 plant-1), grain yield (1211 kg ha-1) and haulm yield (2753 kg ha-1). Pre-emergent application of bensulfuron methyl + pretilachlor 6.6 % G (660 g a.i.ha-1) fb bispyribac sodium (25 g a.i.ha-1 at 25-30 DAS) noticed higher plant height (41.50 cm), dry matter production (24.64 g plant-1), number of pods (42.50 plant-1), grain yield (1198 kg ha-1) and haulm yield (2727kg ha-1). Combination of rice + sunhemp with 125% RDF along with application of bensulfuron methyl + pretilachlor 6.6 % G (660 g a.i.ha-1) fb bispyribac sodium (25 g a.i.ha-1 at 25-30 DAS) recorded higher plant height (44.45 cm), dry matter production (26.39g plant-1), number of pods (45.52 plant-1) grain yield (1283 kg ha-1) and haulm yield (2893 kg ha-1).','Brown manuring, Herbicides, Rice bean and yield.','Practice of brown manuring (Rice+Sunhemp) in aerobic rice has increased the yield of residual rice bean (12.8 %) grown after rice due to its beneficial effects on soil health and improved nutrient availability to subsequent crops. Application of 125% RDF in rice increased the growth and yield of residual crop. Pre-emergent application of bensulfuron methyl + pretilachlor 6.6 % G (660 g a.i.ha-1) fb bispyribac sodium (25 g a.i.ha-1 at 25-30 DAS) had beneficial effect on residual rice bean crop in terms of increasing growth and yield by reducing the weed flora in residual crop.\r\nFarmers can use brown manuring technology due to its multiple benefits viz., reducing weed competition in present crop (rice) and ample supply of nutrients to residual crops (rice bean)like pulses and oil seeds due to its higher nutrient availability in soil after its decomposition, along with this it also improves the physico-chemical and biological properties of soil which reduce the nutrient losses. It also reduces the chemical load (fertilizers and herbicides) to soil. This sustainable practice can help to increase yields, reduce environmental impact and ensure food security in an eco-friendly manner.\r\n','-','Jyoti Jadipujari, Lalitha, B.S., H.M. Jayadeva, Anand, S.R. and G.G. Kadalli (2023). Effect of Brown Manuring on Performance of Rice Bean in Aerobic Rice – Rice Bean Cropping System. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 15(10): 514-520.'),(7723,'168','The Effectiveness and Economics of various Combination Insecticide Formulations against Defoliators and Sucking Pests of Soybean','Saicharan M., Swathi Y., Praveen Kumar G., Sreedhar M. and Balaji Naik B.','The-Effectiveness-and-Economics-of-various-Combination-Insecticide-Formulations-Against-Defoliators-and-Sucking-Pests-of-Soybean-Saicharan-M-100.pdf','',1,'The current investigation was carried out at the Regional Sugarcane and Rice Research Station, Rudrur, in the Nizamabad District of Telangana State, with the aim of assessing the effectiveness of various commercially available insecticide combinations against defoliators and sucking pests of the JS-335 Soybean variety. There were eight treatments in all, including the untreated control group. Three replications of each treatment were conducted using a randomized complete block design. When a pest reached the economic threshold, 30 and 50 days after sowing, insecticides were sprayed, and data was collected five and ten days after treatment to compare with pre-treatment pest population data. The results showed that spraying a combination insecticide Chlorantraniliprole 8.8% + Thiomethoxam 17.5% SC @ 500ml ha-1 twice, 30 days and 50 days after sowing, reduced the population of defoliators like Spodoptera litura & Chrysodexis acuta and sucking pests like aphids & whiteflies by 82.13 per cent and 77.10 per cent respectively, over control. Plots treated with the afore mentioned insecticide had a maximum yield of 1328 kg ha-1 and a 1.67 benefit-cost ratio. Following the treatment, a yield and benefit cost ratio of 1192 kg ha-1 and 1.56 were obtained using Emamectin benzoate 3% + Thiomethoxam 12% WG @ 312.5 g ha-1.','Soybean, combination insecticides, defoliators, aphids, whitefly, yield and benefit cost ratio','The current study has shown that spraying soybean crops with Chlorantraniliprole 8.8% + Thiomethoxam 17.5% SC @ 500 ml ha-1 twice at 30 and 50 days after sowing has decreased sucking pests like aphids and whiteflies as well as defoliators like Spodoptera litura and Chrysodexis acuta. The highest possible soybean yield with benefit cost ratio of 1.43 was attained. The next effective treatment, Emamectin benzoate 3% + Thiomethoxam 12% WG @ 312.5 g ha-1, has a high B:C of 1.56. Both the treatments Beta-cyfluthrin 8.49 + Imidacloprid 19.81% w/w @ 350 ml ha-1 and Acephate 50% + Imidacloprid 1.8% SP @ 1000 g ha-1 have recoded 1.43 benefit cost ratio.','-','Saicharan M., Swathi Y., Praveen Kumar G., Sreedhar M. and Balaji Naik B. (2023). The Effectiveness and Economics of various Combination Insecticide Formulations against Defoliators and Sucking Pests of Soybean. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 15(10): 521-527.'),(7724,'168','Studies on the Efficacy of Natural Dye Extracts for Tinting of Tuberose Cut Spikes','Potula Ushasri, Zehra Salma, P. Prasanth, G. Jyothi and S. Praneeth Kumar','Studies-on-the-Efficacy-of-Natural-Dye-Extracts-for-Tinting-of-Tuberose-Cut-Spikes-Ushasri-Pothula-101.pdf','',1,'The present investigation ‘Studies on the efficacy of natural dye extracts for tinting of tuberose cut spikes’ was carried out at Floricultural Research Station, ARI, Rajendranagar, Hyderabad, during the year 2022-23. The experiment was carried out in Completely Randomised Design with 8 treatments, viz., T₁-Beetroot peel, T₂- Fully opened flowers of Butea monosperma,T₃-Fully opened blue butterfly pea flowers, T₄-Seeds collected from freshly harvested annatto pods, T₅-Red amaranthus leaves, T₆-Fully opened Four ‘o’ clock flowers, T₇-Pomegranate peel and T₈-Indigo leaves. The natural dye extracted from the treatments was used for tinting tuberose spikes. The results of the experiment revealed that, among all treatments, treatment T₅- Red amaranthus leaves along with citric acid -300ppm and 2% sucrose recorded maximum vase life 9.04 days and colour retention 9.04 days of tuberose spikes. Maximum colour intensity L 25.3 a 21.6 b 0.9 with red colour group and high dye solution uptake 6.49 ml/spike, change in fresh weight 29.06 %, basal floret diameter 2.83 cm was recorded in treatment T₁-Beetroot peel. Whereas Least time was taken for treatment T₅-Red amaranthus leaves 4.90 hrs. ','Natural dyes, Tinting, Butea monosperma, chromometer','It can be concluded from present study that naturally available dyes extracted from different plant sources like T1- Beetroot peel, T2- Flame of the forest flowers, T5- Red amaranthus leaves, T6- Four ‘o’ clock flowers are suitable for tinting of tuberose spikes.','-','Potula Ushasri, Zehra Salma, P. Prasanth, G. Jyothi and S. Praneeth Kumar (2023). Studies on the Efficacy of Natural Dye Extracts for Tinting of Tuberose Cut Spikes. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 15(10): 528-532.'),(7725,'168','Assessing the Impact of Composts and Biofertilizers on the Growth of Rabi Maize (Zea mays L.) in Sandy Loam Soil','Bogo Rupok, Joram Yari, Kasinam Doruk, Nakeertha Venu and Hiren Das','Assessing-the-Impact-of-Composts-and-Biofertilizers-on-the-Growth-of-Rabi-Maize-(Zea-mays-L.)-in-Sandy-Loam-Soil-Bogo-Rupok-102.pdf','',1,'A field experiment was conducted at the Department of Agriculture at Himalayan University, Jullang, Arunachal Pradesh, to assess the impact of composts and biofertilizers on plant growth. The available nutrient status was medium in N, High in P and medium in K. The treatments considered of T1- Control 100 % RDF, T2 - Vermicompost + Phosphorus solubilizing bacteria, T3 – Poultry manure + Azotobacter, T4 – Compost + Phosphorus solubilizing bacteria + Azotobacter, T5 – Compost+ Phosphorus solubilizing bacteria, T6 – Poultry manure + Azotobacter, T7 – Vermicompost + Phosphorus solubilizing bacteria + Azotobacter. The highest plant height recorded 20.87 at 20 DAS, 53.27 at 40 DAS, 124.67 at 60 DAS, 142.73 at 80 DAS and 193.73 at 100 DAS, highest number of leaves plant-1 recorded 4.80 at 20 DAS, 5.80 at 40 DAS, 7.44 at 60 DAS, 8.47 at 80 DAS and 12.60 at 100 DAS and plant dry weight recorded 6.23 at 20 DAS, 54.87 at 40 DAS, 122.00 at 60 DAS, 138.67 at 80 DAS and 159.33 at 100 DAS were obtained with treatment (T7) receiving Vermicompost + Phosphorus solubilizing bacteria+ Azotobacter. Some of the challenges we faced were slow and time-consuming in conducting research trail. Also faced difficulty in getting biofertilizers.','Maize, Vermicompost, Phosphorus Solubilizing Bacteria, Azotobacter, Compost','Considering the salient findings in perspective, the study revealed that application of Vermicompost with Phosphorus Solubilizing Bacteria and Azotobacter (T7) was found to be best combination for maximizing the growth parameters (plant height, Number of leaves plant-1 and plant dry weight) of maize. Treatments with Vermicompost and Phosphorus Solubilizing Bacteria was also observed best in CGR (g m-2 day-1) and RGR (g g-1 day-1) in treatment (T7).','-','Bogo Rupok, Joram Yari, Kasinam Doruk, Nakeertha Venu and Hiren Das (2023). Assessing the Impact of Composts and Biofertilizers on the Growth of Rabi Maize (Zea mays L.) in Sandy Loam Soil. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 15(10): 535-535.'),(7726,'168','Evaluation of Hybrids for Growth, Yield and Yield Attributes in Okra (Abelmoschus esculentus L. Moench)','D. Venkatesh, J. Srinivas, D. Lakshminarayana, K. Nagaraju, B. Sai Krishna Nikhil and G. Sathish','Evaluation-of-Hybrids-for-Growth,-Yield-and-Yield-Attributes-in-Okra-(Abelmoschus-esculentus-L.-Moench)-D-Venkatesh-103.pdf','',1,'The present investigation entitled “Evaluation of hybrids for growth, yield and yield attributes in Okra (Abelmoschus esculentus L.)” was undertaken in P.G. research block at College of Horticulture, Mojerla, Wanaparthy District from kharif, 2022 to rabi, 2023. The experimental design laid out in Randomized Block Design with three replications, thirteen parents thus identified based on per se performance and genetic investigation methods were crossed in Line × Tester during rabi 2022-23. The resultant thirty direct crosses along with ten lines, three tester parents and two checks (Arka Anamika and PDKV Pragati) were evaluated in rabi 2022-23 for combining ability, heterosis so as to identify promising F1 hybrids with high productivity, good fruit quality for commercial exploitation. Among 30 hybrids two crosses viz., IC42456 × Kashi Lalima and IC42456 × Parbhani Kranti showed best mean performance for yield and yield contributing traits like number of fruits per plant, fruit yield per plant (kg) and fruit yield per hectare (tonn). Identified promising hybrids viz., IC42456 × Kashi Lalima and IC42456 × Parbhani Kranti can be examined in multi-location experiments to confirm their efficacy and stability in a various of agroclimatic locations.','Okra, Hybrids, Parents, Yield and YVMV resistance','Mean performances of parents and hybrids. Indicated that hybrids performed better than the parents from the heterosis studies promising hybrids identified based on per se performance for the yield and yield contributing characters viz., number of fruits per plant, fruit yield per plant (kg), fruit yield per hectare (tonn) of IC42456 and IC42456 × Kashi Lalima and IC42456 × Parbhani Kranti. ','-','D. Venkatesh, J. Srinivas, D. Lakshminarayana, K. Nagaraju, B. Sai Krishna Nikhil and G. Sathish (2023). Evaluation of Hybrids for Growth, Yield and Yield Attributes in Okra (Abelmoschus esculentus L. Moench). Biological Forum – An International Journal, 15(10): 536-543.'),(7727,'168','Study on the Performance of Integrated Nutrient Management on Soil Fertility of Baby Corn (Zea mays L.)','M. Shiva Prasad, J. Srinivas, J. Cheena, M. Sreenivas and B. Naveen Kumar ','Study-on-the-Performance-of-Integrated-Nutrient-Management-on-Soil-Fertility-of-Baby-Corn-(Zea-mays-L.)-M-Shiva-Prasad-104.pdf','',1,'A field experiment on integrated nutrient management on soil fertility of baby corn (Zea mays L.) was carried out during rabi from December, 2022 to March, 2023 at College of Horticulture, Sri Konda Laxman Telangana State Horticultural University, Rajendranagar, Hyderabad. The experiment was laid out in a randomized block design with seven treatments in three replications. There are significant differences, which were observed in all the treatments. Among the seven treatments evaluated the revealed that the maximum available nitrogen (270.39 kg/ha), phosphorous (31.56 kg/ha) and potassium (276.13 kg/ha) in the soil after harvesting were recorded in treatment T3 (75 % RDF + FYM (5 t/ha) + Vermicompost (1.5 t/ha) + Azotobacter (5 kg/ha)), maximum soil pH (7.41) in T1 (75 % RDF + FYM (10 t/ha) + Azotobacter (5 kg/ha)) and maximum EC (1.66 dS/m) was recorded in T7 (100 % RDF (150: 50: 50)). The incorporation of soil with additional organic manures such as Azotobacter treated Vermicompost and FYM along with 75% RDF resulted in the high productivity of baby corn.','Baby corn, Integrated Nutrient Management, Treatments, Soil fertility and Yield','It could be concluded from the present investigation that, integrated nutrient management significantly influenced the soil fertility in baby corn (COBC-1). Among the different levels of integrated nutrient management maximum soil fertility parameters of baby corn was obtained from treatment T3 (75 % RDF + FYM (5 t/ha) + Vermicompost (1.5 t/ha) + Azotobacter (5 kg/ha) even second highest treatment T2 (75 % RDF + Vermicompost (3 t/ha) + Azotobacter (5 kg/ha) is also found better after the treatment T3.','-','M. Shiva Prasad, J. Srinivas, J. Cheena, M. Sreenivas and B. Naveen Kumar (2023). Study on the Performance of Integrated Nutrient Management on Soil Fertility of Baby Corn (Zea mays L.). Biological Forum – An International Journal, 15(10): 544-547.'),(7728,'147','Integrated Nutrient Management Combined with Starter Applied Residue Incorporation Enhances the Growth and Yield of Transplanted kharif Rice (Oryza sativa L.)\r\n','Priyanka Nayak, Rabindra Kumar Paikaray, Bama Shankar Rath, Sanat Kumar Dwibedi, Rajendra Kumar Panda, Shivasankar Acharya and Sabyasachi Sahoo','Integrated-Nutrient-Management-Combined-with-Starter-Applied-Residue-Incorporation-Enhances-the-Growth-and-Yield-of-Transplanted-kharif-Rice-Priyanka-Nayak-137.pdf','',1,'Field experiment was conducted during kharif seasons of 2020 and 2021 at Odisha University of Agriculture and Technology, Bhubaneswar, Odisha, India, to evaluate the effect of different rice residue and nitrogen management practices on growth, yield components and yield of kharif rice, which was carried out in a split plot design, having six main plot treatments, consisting of rice residue management options viz., rice residue removal, in-situ burning of rice residues, in-situ incorporation of rice residues, in-situ incorporation of rice residues+ 20 kg N ha-1 as starter, in-situ incorporation of rice residues+ 20 kg N ha-1 + 20 kg P2O5 ha-1 as starter and in-situ incorporation of rice residues+ waste decomposer; and four sub-plot treatments consisting soil test-based N, leaf colour chart based N, chlorophyll meter based N and integrated nitrogen management based N (75% N through inorganic + 25% N through FYM). The results of the experiment revealed highest growth parameters viz., plant height (126.9 cm), tillers m-2 (283.5), LAI (4.53), dry matter (1002.4 g m-2) recorded with in-situ incorporation of rice residues along with 20 kg N ha-1 and 20 kg P2O5 ha-1, whereas, among the N management options, INM based N application resulted in highest plant height at harvest (128.0 cm), tillers m-2 (285.6), LAI at 60 DAT (4.53) and dry weight (966.1 g m-2). Among the growth attributing parameters, the highest number of panicles m-2 (271) was recorded with in-situ incorporation of rice residues along with 20 kg N ha-1, whereas, the highest grains panicle-1 (125.0) and 1000-grain weight (23.64 g) were with in-situ incorporation of rice residues along with 20 kg N ha-1 and 20 kg P2O5 ha-1. Similarly, INM based N management resulted in highest number of panicles m-2 (274) and grains panicle-1 (123.4). The interaction effect of residue and nitrogen management revealed highest grain yield (5833 kg ha-1) and straw yield (7227 kg ha-1) recorded with INM based N application combined with in-situ incorporation of rice residues along with 20 kg N ha-1 and 20 kg P2O5 ha-1. Thus, in-situ incorporation of rice residues along with 20 kg N ha-1 and 20 kg P2O5 ha-1 as starter is an optimum and sustainable approach to enhance the growth and yield of kharif rice.','Kharif rice, Residue incorporation, Nitrogen management, Growth, Yield','It can be concluded from the investigation thatincorporation of rice residuesintegrated with starter application of 20 kg each of N and P2O5 ha-1, along with integrated nitrogen management based nitrogen application in rice can enhance the growth and yield attributes, thereby increasing the grain and straw yield of rice under Odisha condition.','-','Priyanka Nayak, Rabindra Kumar Paikaray, Bama Shankar Rath, Sanat Kumar Dwibedi, Rajendra Kumar Panda, Shivasankar Acharya and Sabyasachi Sahoo (2022). Integrated Nutrient Management Combined with Starter Applied Residue Incorporation Enhances the Growth and Yield of Transplanted kharif Rice (Oryza sativa L.). Biological Forum – An International Journal, 14(4a): 802-809.'),(7729,'148','Economics and Energetic Efficiency of Puddled Transplanted Rice (Oryza sativa L.) as Influenced by Residue and Nitrogen Management Options','Priyanka Nayak, Bama Shankar Rath, Rabindra Kumar Paikaray, Bijay Kumar Mohapatra, Sanat Kumar Dwibedi, Sabyasachi Sahoo and Shivasankar Acharya ','Economics-and-Energetic-Efficiency-of-Puddled-Transplanted-Rice-(Oryza-sativa-L.)-as-Influenced-by-Residue-and-Nitrogen-Management-Options-Priyanka-Nayak-118.pdf','',1,'A field experiment was conducted during kharif seasons of 2020 and 2021 at Odisha University of Agriculture and Technology, Bhubaneswar, Odisha, India, to identify economic and energy-efficient residue and nitrogen management technology options with satisfactory productivity and profitability in transplanted rice, which was carried out in a split plot design, having six main plot treatments, consisting of rice residue management options viz., rice residue removal, in-situ burning of rice residues, in-situ incorporation of rice residues, in-situ incorporation of rice residues + 20 kg N ha-1 as starter, in-situ incorporation of rice residues + 20 kg N ha-1 + 20 kg P2O5 ha-1 as starter and in-situ incorporation of rice residues + waste decomposer; and four sub-plot treatments consisting soil test-based N, leaf colour chart based N, chlorophyll meter based N and integrated nitrogen management based N (75% N through inorganic + 25% N through FYM).The results of the experiment revealed the lowest input energy consumption with rice residue removal and LCC based N application resulted in the lowest input energy. With respect to output energy, the highest output energy was recorded with in-situ incorporation of rice residues along with starter application of N and P2O5, differing significantly with all other residue management options. Among the nitrogen management options, INM approach resulted in the highest output energy, differing significantly with all other N management options. The highest net energy return andenergy use efficiencywas recorded with in-situ incorporation of rice residues along with starter application of N and P2O5 and INM approach, differing significantly with all other residue management treatments. The lowest specific energy and highest energy productivity was observed with in-situ incorporation of rice residues along with waste decomposer, whereas, among nitrogen management options, INM approachand LCC based nitrogen management recorded the lowest specific energy and highest energy productivity, respectively. Among residue management options, maximum energy profitability was recorded with with in-situ incorporation of rice residues along with N as starter and LCC based nitrogen management. The highest net returns and B:C ratio was estimated with in-situ incorporation of rice residues along with 20 kg N ha-1 and 20 kg P2O5ha-1 and INM approach of N management. Thus, in-situ incorporation of rice residues along with starter application of N and P2O5 along with INM involving 75% inorganic and 25% organic can be practised for encashing highest net energy, energy use efficiency and economical return from transplanted rice.','Residue incorporation, Nitrogen management, Energy efficiency, Economics, Transplanted rice','In-situ incorporation of rice residues along with starter application of N and P2O5 and integrated nitrogen management involving 75% inorganic and 25% organic can be practised for encashing highest net energy, energy use efficiency and economical return from transplanted rice.','-','Priyanka Nayak, Bama Shankar Rath, Rabindra Kumar Paikaray, Bijay Kumar Mohapatra, Sanat Kumar Dwibedi, Sabyasachi Sahoo and Shivasankar Acharya (2023). Economics and Energetic Efficiency of Puddled Transplanted Rice (Oryza sativa L.) as Influenced by Residue and Nitrogen Management Options. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 15(1): 720-727.'),(7730,'168','Evaluation of Guava (Psidium guajava L.) Genotypes for Tree Morphology and Fruit characteristics','Pawandeep Singh, S.K. Pandey, C.S.Pandey, Ram Kumar Rai and Mohni Parmar','Evaluation-of-Guava-(Psidium-guajava-L.)-Genotypes-for-Tree-Morphology-and-Fruit-characteristics-CS-Pandey-105.pdf','',1,'Guava exhibit greater variability on the region-specific which could lead to discovers a significant genotype that are suitable for a particular area or region in terms of yield and quality parameter. The growth, yield and quality traits of 21 genotypes of guava (Psidium guajava L.) were evaluated during the winter season of 2018-19. Plant height was higher in G-12 (8.55 m) whereas, the minimum height was recorded in G-15 (2.50 m). The maximum North-South spread was recorded in genotype G-7 (8.30 m) but East-West spread was recorded in genotype G-2 (6.15 m). In visual observation of canopy shape, it was seen that out of the 21 genotypes, 2 genotypes were found erect type, 7 genotypes were semi spreading, and 12 genotypes were spreading type. There was no variation in bark colour and leaf colour in selected genotypes but number of leaves/30cm shoot and size varied. The result showed that the values of physical parameters viz. fruit length (9.0 cm), fruit width (8.04 cm), pulp percentage (98.35 per cent) and thickness of pulp (1.8 cm) were found maximum in genotype G-13. Thus, genotype G-13 was found superior over other genotypes which may be selected for further evaluation and recommendation.','Guava, Morphology, Fruit Characteristics, Genotypes, Plant spread, Fruit length','Based on result, it is noted that G-12 recorded maximum plant height (8.55 m), whereas; the minimum height was recorded in G-15 (2.50 m). The maximum North-South spread was recorded in genotype G-7 (8.30 m) but East-West spread was recorded in genotype G-2 (6.15 m). As far as physical parameters are concerned the maximum fruit length (9.0 cm), fruit width (8.04 cm), pulp percentage (98.35 per cent) and thickness of pulp (1.8 cm) were found in genotype G-13. Thus, genotype G-13 was found superior over other genotypes which may be selected for further evaluation and recommendation. In visual observation of canopy shape, it was seen that out of the 21 genotypes, 2 genotypes were found erect type, 7 genotypes were semi spreading and 12 genotypes were spreading type. The variability in these selected genotypes may be due to genetic makeup and agro-climatic conditions of the locality. ','-','Pawandeep Singh, S.K. Pandey, C.S.Pandey, Ram Kumar Rai and Mohni Parmar (2023). Evaluation of Guava (Psidium guajava L.) Genotypes for Tree Morphology and Fruit characteristics. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 15(10): 548-553.'),(7731,'168','Impact of Irrigation Levels and Plant Density of Annual Lac insects Host Plant Cajanus cajan (L.) Millsp. on the Survival of Kerria lacca Kerr','Gopilal Anjana, Moni Thomas, Sahab Kumar Patel, Swarna Kurmi, Deep Kumar Pahalwan, Manish Bhan, Alok Bajpai and Anil Kumar Singh ','Impact-of-Irrigation-Levels-and-Plant-Density-of-Annual-Lac-insects-Host-Plant-Cajanus-cajan-(L.)--Millsp.-on-the-Survival-of-Kerria-lacca-Kerr-Gopilal-Anjana-106.pdf','',1,'Doubling of farmers’ income is only possible if farmers diversify their crops to include high-value crops that have better market demand and can fetch higher prices. Lac is a natural resin with high commercial value. Among more than hundred hosts pigeonpea crop can be utilized as a preferred host to get more return in the form of seeds as well as lac resin from the same host. Getting high return from less resources is the fundamental concept behind the concept of Doubling of Farmers’ income. Pigeonpea - a widely cultivated pulse crop in central India is also a good annual host of lac insect (Kerria lacca Kerr.). Lac insect produces lac resin which is a cash crop and export commodity. The present research work was done to evaluate the impact of irrigation levels and spacing of C. cajan on the survival of lac insects. The two year (2020-21 and 2021-22) pooled data analysis revealed an increase in the survival of lac insects with increasing spacing and the amount of irrigation water. The mean live lac insects on C. cajan with interaction of wider spacing (S3) and higher irrigation (W3) at BLI was 174.83 while that of at harvest of lac crop was 67.71.','Marginal farmers, resources, survival, sustainability, income','Health of the host plant influences the growth and survival of the phloem feeder. Spacings between and among host plants as well as proper irrigation have positive effects on the health of plants. This may be the reason for higher percent of survival of lac insects in the plant with enough spacing and good irrigation. Irrigation helps in utilization of soil nutrients by plants due to maintenance of proper moisture level for survival of soil microorganisms. This helps to maintain the host plant in good health for the development of settled lac insect.','-','Gopilal Anjana, Moni Thomas, Sahab Kumar Patel, Swarna Kurmi, Deep Kumar Pahalwan, Manish Bhan, Alok Bajpai and Anil Kumar Singh (2023). Impact of Irrigation Levels and Plant Density of Annual lac insects Host Plant Cajanus cajan (L.) Millsp. on the Survival of Kerria lacca Kerr. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 15(10): 554-561.'),(7732,'168','Study of Integrated Nutrient Management on Growth and Yield Attributing Characters of Garden Pea (Pisum sativus L.)','Malothu Soniya, J. Srinivas, J. Cheena, B. Naveen Kumar and G. Sathish','Study-of-Integrated-Nutrient-Management-on-Growth-and-Yield-Attributing-Characters-of-Garden-Pea-(Pisum-sativus-L.)-Malothu-Soniya-107.pdf','',1,'This study was undertaken to evaluate the integrated nutrient management on growth and yield attributes of garden pea. There are significant differences were observed in all treatments. The experiment was laid out in a randomized block design with three replications. Among the seven treatments evaluated it revealed that the maximum plant height (57.68 cm), number of branches (16.78) and number of nodes on the main branch (8.47) were recorded in the treatment T7 100% RDF. The lowest number of days of first flowering recorded in the (28.88 days) and days of 50 % flowering was recorded in treatment T3 – 75% RDF+ FYM (5t /ha) + Vermicompost (1.5 t/ha) + Azotobacter (5kg /ha). Whereas yield attributing characters, number of green pods per cluster (8.60), total number of pods per plant (16.78), Pod length (8.89cm), pod diameter was recorded (4.15 cm), 100 seed weight (29.54 g), Average pod weight (6.64g) and pod yield per plot (12.54 kg) was recorded Treatment T3 – 75% RDF+ FYM (5t /ha) + Vermicompost (1.5 t/ha) + Azotobacter (5kg /ha).','Garden pea, Integrated Nutrient Management, Treatments, Growth and Yield','It could be concluded from the present investigation that, integrated nutrient management significantly influenced the growth and yield of garden pea (Arkel). Among the different levels of integrated nutrient management maximum growth and yield of garden pea were obtained from treatment T3 (75 % RDF + FYM (5 t/ha) + Vermicompost (1.5 t/ha) + Azotobacter (5 kg/ha).','-','Malothu Soniya, J. Srinivas, J. Cheena, B. Naveen Kumar and G. Sathish (2023). Study of Integrated Nutrient Management on Growth and Yield Attributing Characters of Garden Pea (Pisum sativus L.). Biological Forum – An International Journal, 15(10): 562-565.'),(7733,'168','Seasonal Activity and Population Dynamics of Mythimna separata, Tetrix subulata, Euscyrtus concinnus and Gryllotalpa orientalis in Rice in Relation to Meteorological Parameters','Sanju Singh, Amit Kumar Sharma, Naresh Dhakar, Mitesh Makwana and Dheerendra Mahor ','Seasonal-Activity-and-Population-Dynamics-of-Mythimna-separata,-Tetrix-subulata,-Euscyrtus-concinnus-and-Gryllotalpa-orientalis-in-Rice-in-Relation-to-Meteorological-Parameters-Sanju-Singh-108.pdf','',1,'Experiment is based on the seasonal incidence of insect’s pests of rice collected through light trap device, provides useful information on monitoring of pest’s activity in the field condition and fluctuation of pest population. Activity during June to October, Mythimna separata first appeared during 40th SW and attain its first peak in this week (7.28 moths) population was decreased from 31st to 36th SW, with a slightly increased and decreased from 37th to 40th SW, correlation studies of Mythimna separata revealed that evening relative humidity, minimum temperature, wind velocity, evening vapor pressure, morning vapor pressure and number of rain days showed significant negative correlation. Tetrix subulata was first observed in light trap during 27th SW (0.71 hoppers) population than increased sharply from 41th standard week light trap. Crucial activity period was July to October; correlation studies of Tetrix subulata revealed that evening relative humidity, evening vapor pressure showed significant negative correlation. Euscyrtus concinnus is a minor pest of paddy in Jabalpur. It was first observed during 27th SW (32.85 crickets) in light trap, population than sharply increased to attain its first and highest peak during 28th SW (213.14 crickets). Gryllotalpa orientalis was first observed in light trap device during 26th SW. Its second and highest peak 43rd SW (8.71 cricket). The correlation studies revealed these four pest in relation to different meteorological parameters.','Seasonal activity, Light trap, insects, Phototactic, Rice, population and Weather parameters','Seasonal incidence of harmful insect’s pest of rice was done by operative the light trap device in kharif season of 2016. Recorded crucial activity period of Mythimna separata was first appeared during 4th standard week and attain its peak in this week (7.28 moths) in light trap. Population then sharply decrease from 43rd SW to 44th SW, major activity period was October. Short horn grass hopper was first observed in light trap during 27th SW (0.71 hoppers). Major activity period was July to October. Euscyyrtus concinnus is a minor pest of rice crop in Jabalpur and other region also, it was first observed during 27th SW, major activity period was June to October. Gryllotalpa orientalis was first observed in light trap tool in the 26th SW (0.85 crickets). Population than sharply declined in 44th SW. Major activity period was June to October. The correlation studies revealed that four major pests in relation to different meteorological parameters such as, maximum temperature, minimum temperature, sunshine, evening and morning relative humidity, wind velocity, morning vapor pressure, evening vapor pressure, rainfall and number of rainy days. ','-','Sanju Singh, Amit Kumar Sharma, Naresh Dhakar, Mitesh Makwana and Dheerendra Mahor (2023). Seasonal Activity and Population Dynamics of Mythimna separata, Tetrix subulata, Euscyrtus concinnus and Gryllotalpa orientalis in Rice in Relation to Meteorological Parameters. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 15(10): 566-570.'),(7734,'168','The Relationship between Diabetes Mellitus and Cancer','Mayank Patel, Anamika Pandey, Shamshad Ali, Preeti Verma, Prem Kumar and Vikrant Singh Chouhan','The-Relationship-between-Diabetes-Mellitus-and-Cancer-Mayank-Patel-109.pdf','',1,'Diabetes mellitus (DM) and cancer are the two most common chronic diseases that increase concern due to their rising global prevalence. While they are traditionally viewed as distinct medical conditions, emerging research suggests a complex interplay between these two conditions. Diabetes mellitus is characterised by high body blood glucose levels caused by either insufficient production of insulin hormone (Type 1 DM) or insulin hormone resistance (Type 2 DM). On the other hand, cancer is characterized by the uncontrolled growth and spread of abnormal cells. Recent epidemiological study indicate a link between diabetes mellitus and an increased risk of various cancers, including pancreatic, liver, breast and bladder cancer. This suggests that the metabolic and hormonal alteration in diabetes play a significant role in cancer development. Several mechanisms have been proposed to explain the potential link between these two conditions via the PI3K/Akt/mTOR and WNT/beta-catenin signalling pathways. Hyperinsulinemia, hyperglycemia, chronic inflammation and obesity create microenvironments which promote cancer development in diabetic patients. Furthermore, various new cancer therapies, including PI3K inhibitors and immune checkpoint inhibitors unveil underlying diabetes mellitus or aggravate pre-existing diabetes. So, there is a complex link between diabetes mellitus and cancer. Understanding this connection is crucial for developing strategies to reduce the potential risk of diabetes mellitus in individuals with cancer and vice versa.','Hyperinsulinemia, Hyperglycemia, Obesity, Glucocorticoids, Immunotherapy','In T1DM and T2DM, the risk of various cancers and cancer mortality is elevated. On the other hand, several cancers and cancer treatments are linked to a higher risk of developing diabetes mellitus. This indicates that metabolic and hormonal changes associated with diabetes mellitus are significant contributors to the development of cancer. Several mechanisms have been suggested to elucidate the potential connection between diabetes mellitus and cancer, involving the PI3K/Akt/mTOR and WNT/β-catenin signalling pathways. Furthermore, the interplay between cancer and diabetes mellitus is influenced by factors such as obesity, oxidative stress, inflammation, elevated blood sugar levels, hyperinsulinemia, genetic predisposition and cancer treatments.','-','Mayank Patel, Anamika Pandey, Shamshad Ali, Preeti Verma, Prem Kumar and Vikrant Singh Chouhan (2023). The Relationship between Diabetes Mellitus and Cancer. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 15(10): 571-575.'),(7735,'147','Compatibility of Trichoderma hamatum with Chemical fungicides and its effect on Yield of Green Gram','Adyasha Das and Shyama Sundar Mahapatra','Compatibility-of-Trichoderma-hamatum-with-Chemical-fungicides-and-its-effect-on-Yield-of-Green-Gram-Adyasha-Das-138.pdf','',4,'An examination was embraced to assess the similarity of fungicides at suggested measurements with Trichoderma hamatum being utilized as a biocontrol specialist against soil borne sicknesses of green gram in field conditions. Trichoderma hamatum was viewed as profoundly viable with valid amycin both under in-vivo conditions. In field condition, the development boundaries of green gram were additionally seen to be most noteworthy giving better return (12 q/ha) as well as higher B:C proportion (5.21) in the mix of Trichoderma hamatum and validamycin. Viable mixes at their suggested measurements can be suggested for coordinated administration for soil borne microbes of the harvest.','Trichoderma hamatum, fungicides, compatibility, B:C ratio, soil borne diseases','The present study indicates that application of Trichoderma would be compatible with fungicides (viz., Validamycin 3% L, Metalaxyl 8% +Mancozeb 64% WP, Copper oxychloride 50%WG) at recommended dosage and can be recommended for integrated management of soil borne pathogens of these crops. ','-','Adyasha Das and Shyama Sundar Mahapatra (2022). Compatibility of Trichoderma hamatum with Chemical fungicides and its effect on Yield of Green Gram. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 14(4a): 810-813.'),(7736,'168','Leaf Geometry in Jasminum spp. viss-a-vis Infestational Distribution of Crimson spider mite, Tetranychus lombardinii Baker & Pritchard (Acari: Tetranychidae)','Pooja and N. Srinivasa','Leaf-Geometry-in-Jasminum-spp.-viss-a-vis-Infestational-Distribution-of-Crimson-spider-mite,-Tetranychus-lombardinii-Baker-&-Pritchard-(Acari-Tetranychidae)-Pooja-110.pdf','',1,'The crimson spider mite, Tetranychus lombardinii Baker & Pritchard (Acari: Tetranychidae) has been a significant emerging pest on different species of Jasminum, causing considerable damage by sucking the sap from the leaf tissues. Leaf morphological characters and nutritional contents play an important role on the distribution and survival of the pest. The study has been undertaken to understand the relationship between morphological characters (leaf morphology) and natural infestation of mites under field conditions. There were significant differences with respect to leaf length, leaf breadth and leaf thickness across the different Jasminum spp. Though the overall area of J. auriculatum leaf was the lowest (4.83 cm2), but it harboured a greater number of mites i.e., 23.60 mites/cm2 leaf area comparable to the number of mites inhabiting the leaves of J. grandiflorum and J. sambac with 25.20 and 21.60 mites/cm2 leaf area, respectively. It is opined that crimson spider mite infestational distribution on Jasminum leaves depends on the leaf area as well as the leaf geometry (i.e., leaf type), which is probably associated with mite colonisation and its mobility for damaging activities such as feeding, egg laying, webbing etc. The information with respect infestational distribution and survival on different Jasminum spp. aids in the development of appropriate management measures against crimson spider mite, T. lombardinii in the field. ','Jasmine, Tetranychus lombardinii, leaf morphology, distribution','Both the host plant texture (leaf morphology) and host plant physiology imply a significant impact on survival, infestational distribution and population buildup of crimson spider mite pest on leaves of Jasminum spp. Understanding of plant architecture as well as biochemical profile of Jasminum host plants largely determine the mite infestation pattern and the intensity of mite infestation to decide on the appropriate management strategy.','-','Pooja and N. Srinivasa (2023). Leaf Geometry in Jasminum spp. viss-a-vis Infestational Distribution of Crimson spider mite, Tetranychus lombardinii Baker & Pritchard (Acari: Tetranychidae). Biological Forum – An International Journal, 15(10): 576-579.'),(7737,'168','Study of Simple Measures of Genetic Variability Parameters in F2:3 Populations of Cowpea (Vigna unguiculata L. Walp.)','Hussainbi, Hasan Khan, Arunkumar B., Tembhurne B. V. and Anand P. Patil ','Study-of-Simple-Measures-of-Genetic-Variability-Parameters-in-F23-Populations-of-Cowpea-(Vigna-unguiculata-L.-Walp.)-Hussainbi-111.pdf','',1,'Two F2:3 populations of cowpea were evaluated for 10 different quantitative traits during summer 2021 to study genetic variability parameters. Analysis of variance revealed significant differences among all the segregants of the population for most of the traits studied. High phenotypic coefficient of variance and genetic coefficient of variance were recorded for plant height, number of primary branches/plant, dry matter/plant and seed yield/plant in F2:3 population of VBN-1 × RC-19; number of primary branches/plant, number of pods/plant, dry matter/plant and seed yield/plant in F2:3 population of KBC-9 × PGCP-6. High heritability and GAM were recorded for plant height, number of primary branches/plant, number of pods/plant, pod length, number of seeds/pod, dry matter/plant and seed yield/plant in the F2:3 population of VBN-1 × RC-19; plant height, number of primary branches/plant, number of pods/plant, number of seeds/pod, dry matter/plant and seed yield/plant. This indicates the scope for improvement of these characters through selection.','Cowpea, genetic coefficient of variance, phenotypic coefficient of variance, heritability, variability','High phenotypic coefficient of variance and genetic coefficient of variance were recorded for plant height, number of primary branches/plant, dry matter/plant and seed yield/plant in F2:3 population of VBN-1 × RC-19. High heritability coupled with medium genetic advance as per cent of mean indicated the presence of both additive and non-additive gene actions for the inheritance of these characters and high genotype × environment interaction.','-','Hussainbi, Hasan Khan, Arunkumar B., Tembhurne B. V. and Anand P. Patil (2023). Study of Simple Measures of Genetic Variability Parameters in F2:3 Populations of Cowpea (Vigna unguiculata L. Walp.). Biological Forum – An International Journal, 15(10): 580-584.'),(7738,'168','Geospatial based Land Use Land Cover Change Detection in Jabalpur district, Madhya Pradesh','Jyoti Lohare, Reena Nair, S.K. Sharma, S.K. Pandey and Shiv Ramakrishnan ','Geospatial-based-Land-Use-Land-Cover-Change-Detection-in-Jabalpur-district,-Madhya-Pradesh-Jyoti-Lohare-112.pdf','',1,'For developmental planning and management on sustainable basis of any area mapping and monitoring of land use land cover (LULC) is necessary. For sustainable development of land use land cover to help the planners and policy makers remote sensing and GIS has become a proven tool. This study is an attempt to assess or estimate the change in land use/land cover using remote sensing (RS) and Geographical Information System (GIS) in Jabalpur district, Madhya Pradesh between 2016 and 2022. Sentinel – 2A satellite data for the period has been used to extract LULC using Maximum likelihood supervised classification method. There are five LULC classes were identified in the study area such as agricultural land, built-up land (habitation), open/barren/wasteland, forest, and waterbodies. Results obtained shows increase in built up area and waterbody by 26.70% and 7.88% respectively between 2016 and 2022.','Sustainable development, Sentinel','This study demonstrated that the recent advances in Remote Sensing and Geographical Information System technologies provide powerful tool for mapping and detecting change in Land Use Land Cover. This research carried out in Jabalpur district, Madhya Pradesh, India using these modern technologies in conjunction with field observations showed both land cover conversion and modifications. The general trend observed by the present study is increase in built up land (habitation) area by 4.45% per annum and very little decrease (0.33%) in agriculture area. The increasing trend of built up area suggest to policy makers to restrict human intervention activities. The findings of the study highlight the need for comprehensive assessment of human activities and the adaptation of suitable measures for the same.','-','Jyoti Lohare, Reena Nair, S.K. Sharma, S.K. Pandey and Shiv Ramakrishnan (2023). Geospatial based Land Use Land Cover Change Detection in Jabalpur district, Madhya Pradesh. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 15(10): 585-592.'),(7739,'168','Assessment of Rajmash (Phaseolus vulgaris L.) Germplasm Against Colletotrichum lindemuthianum inciting Bean Anthracnose','Neha, Ritika Singh, Alok Kumar, Anupam Kumar and Shivani Kaundal','Assessment-of-Rajmash-(Phaseolus-vulgaris-L.)-Germplasm-Against-Colletotrichum-lindemuthianum-inciting-Bean-Anthracnose-Neha-113.pdf','',1,'The common bean (Phaseolus vulgaris L.) is the world\'s most widely grown and consumed grain legume. It has more fiber, vitamins, minerals, and proteins than usual. Colletotrichum lindemuthianum is the agent of the most damaging bean disease, anthracnose. The current study was conducted at the Research Farm of the School of Agriculture, Abhilashi University, Mandi (H.P.) during the kharif season of 2022 to assess 30 common bean genotypes obtained from NBPGR regional station Shimla and 10 local cultivars gathered from a separate area of the Mandi district to determine the source of resistance against virulence of Colletotrichum lindemuthianum. Screening of genotypes for anthracnose resistance aids in the identification of 3 highly resistant genotypes ( IC-328492, EC-500200 and IC-329497), 29 moderately resistant genotypes (MR-EC-500262, EC-530916, EC-500250, EC-271523, EC-500210, EC-500206, EC-500307, EC-5309132, EC-500189, EC-44624,EC-500237, IC-328404, IC-329389, IC-328653, IC-328847, IC-328449,IC-328537, IC-328411, IC-328626, IC-329462, IC-328398, IC-328397,Barot-1, Barot-2, Barot-3, Barot-4, Janjehli-1, Karsog-1, Karsog-2) and 8 moderately susceptible genotypes (EC- 500337, EC- 405230, EC- 530936, IC- 328639, IC- 328396, Rampur-1, Nihri-1 and Nihri-2).The resistance genotypes that have been identified can either be subjected to a varietal development selection procedure for direct use by farmers, or they can be used as potential donors of resistant genes in breeding programs to develop cultivars with broad and long-lasting resistance to anthracnose. ','Screening, Colletotrichum lindemuthianum, Anthracnose disease, Common bean, Resistance','The screening of genotypes for anthracnose resistance was done according to a 0-3 scale (Inglis et al., 1988) and the severity of the disease ranged from 6.66% to 53.33% based on the percent disease index (PDI) genotypes under study was divided into three reaction groups viz. highly resistant (3), moderately resistant (29) and moderately susceptible (8). The resistant cultivar can be used in further breeding programs.','-','Neha, Ritika Singh, Alok Kumar, Anupam Kumar and Shivani Kaundal (2023). Assessment of Rajmash (Phaseolus vulgaris L.) Germplasm Against Colletotrichum lindemuthianum inciting Bean Anthracnose. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 15(10): 593-597.'),(7740,'168','L. Bangari, M. Prasuna, R. Neela Rani and P. Janaki Srinath (2023). Strategies Followed by Farm Women in Marketing of Horticulture Produce in Telangana State. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 15(10): 598-601.','L. Bangari, M. Prasuna, R. Neela Rani and P. Janaki Srinath','Strategies-Followed-by-Farm-Women-in-Marketing-of-Horticulture-Produce-in-Telangana-State-L-Bangari-114.pdf','',1,'In the development of agriculture and allied sectors, women play a key role. They were also playing a significant role in the horticulture sector and could play a greater role in the further development of the horticulture sector. The present study was conducted to study the strategies followed by farm women in the marketing of horticulture produce. A total sample of 120 farm women was selected through the purposive random sampling method. The Ex-post research design was used for the study. The study was conducted using a structured interview schedule. The data were analyzed using frequency, percentage, and mean percent scores. In the study, the results revealed showed that majority (MPS 77.80) of the farm women expressed that they sold their produce to ‘wholesale markets’ followed by marketing produce through ‘rythu bazaars (MPS 65.80), ‘to large urban markets’(MPS 64.40),‘to local market’ (MPS 63.60), ‘to government markets’(or)‘agencies’ (MPS 61.10), ‘to middlemen’ (MPS 55.80), ‘to local traders’ (MPS 51.40), ‘to processors’ (MPS 49.20),’ through roadside stands and markets’(MPS 48.60), ‘to neighbors’ (MPS 41.30) and to local merchants in field (MPS 11.90).The results found that more than three quarters (MPS 77.80) of the respondents were selling produce to wholesale markets followed by rythu bazaars (MPS 65.80), selling to urban markets (MPS 64.40), selling to the local market (MPS 63.60), selling to government markets (or)agencies (MPS 61.10). Those strategies were followed to fetch a better price when compared to that of local places. Half of the respondents were selling their produce to middlemen due to the reasons of lack of time to go to the markets, the perishable nature of the produce, and the lack of available transportation and storage facilities.','Farm women, Horticulture, Farm produce, Marketing, Strategies','The findings of this study hold implications for policymakers. Half of the farm women were selling their produce to middlemen due to a lack of proper marketing facilities. A better provision of market facilities by the government may help them to reduce middlemen\'s involvement while marketing farm produce and may also help them to market their produce with better profit.','-','L. Bangari, M. Prasuna, R. Neela Rani and P. Janaki Srinath (2023). Strategies Followed by Farm Women in Marketing of Horticulture Produce in Telangana State. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 15(10): 598-601.'),(7741,'168','Mining of drought Tolerant Endophytic Bacteria from Weed species of Dry Regions of Karnataka','Divya S.K., Abhinandana K.R., Arati, Shashank S., Lohithkumar N. and Krishna Naik L.','Mining of drought Tolerant Endophytic Bacteria from Weed species of Dry Regions of Karnataka-Divya SK-115.pdf','',1,'The present study aims to isolate and characterize the drought tolerant endophytic bacteria from different weed species grown on dry regions of Karnataka. Totally fifty endophytic bacterial isolates were isolated and were screened for different drought stress concentration (PEGMW8000 concentration -10, 15 and 20%). Among the isolates, eight isolates were able to grow at 20 percent PEGMW 8000 concentration (-0.51MPa), further these isolates characterized for drought tolerant potential and plant growth promotion potential under in-vitro condition. The results showed that among the isolates, two endophytic bacterial isolates viz., AVS2B and CDS1A isolated from the weed species Amaranthus viridis and Cynodon dactylon respectively exhibited positive response to most of the in vitro PGPR characteristics and drought tolerant characteristics studied under both stressed (-0.51MPa) and unstressed condition. Therefore, these strains could have vital implications for the agricultural sector if used as biofertilizer. Two efficient isolates. AVS2B and CDS1A were them molecularly identified as Alcaligenes faecalis and Pseudomonas taiwanensis respectively by 16S rRNA gene sequence.','Drought tolerance, endophytic bacteria, Polyethylene glycol and plant growth promotion','To meet current and future demand of food for a rapidly growing population, novel and sustainable agricultural systems are needed to effectively use land and water resources. This is particularly important with the current climate change challenges where abiotic stress is a limiting factor to agronomic production. The present study explored several bacteria endophytes harbored by weeds species growing under drought stress. Two bacterial strains, Alcaligenes faecalis and Pseudomonas taiwanensis showed improved drought tolerance and also exhibited positive response to all the in-vitro PGPR characteristics studied. Therefore these strains could have vital implications for the agricultural sector if used as biofertilizer. These findings represent a promising environmentally friendly agricultural application to mitigate the effects of climatic change on crop productivity.','-','Divya S.K., Abhinandana K.R., Arati, Shashank S., Lohithkumar N. and Krishna Naik L. (2023). Mining of drought Tolerant Endophytic Bacteria from Weed species of Dry Regions of Karnataka. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 15(10): 602-609.'),(7742,'168','Host Range Studies of Bean common Mosaic Virus (BCMV) Infecting French Bean','Hanumanth Koravar, H. A. Prameela, Shweta Hudge, Sangeeta Bhajantri and Manjunath Hurakadli ','Host-Range-Studies-of-Bean-common-Mosaic-Virus-(BCMV)-Infecting-French-Bean-HANUMANTH-KORAVAR-116.pdf','',1,'To ascertain the biological link between BCMV and other host plants, a french bean infecting isolate was physically inoculated into various host plants. 13 host plants out of the 25 host plants examined were shown to be easily infected by the virus. Across plant species, there were differences in the incubation period required for symptom expression typical symptoms of mosaic, mottling and leaf rolling were produced on pea, pole bean and cowpea. The pole bean expressed symptoms after long incubation period (15-18 days). BCMV produced mosaic symptoms on green gram, moth bean, black gram and horse gram. A typical chlorotic and necrotic local lesion symptoms were produced with shorter incubation period on Glysine max L. (6-7 days), Nicotiana rustica (5-6 days) and Chenopodium amaranticolor (4-5 days). To verify the existence of BCMV, every plant was exposed to the Double Antibody Sandwich-Enzyme Linking Immunosorbent Assay (DAS-ELISA). The results demonstrated that the host plants that had distinct symptoms following mechanical sap inoculation had a good response to the antibody-specific.','DAS-ELISA, mechanical inoculation, incubation time, and bean common mosaic virus','The results of the experiments conducted in this study demonstrated that BCMV may be readily transmitted to other host plants through mechanical sap inoculation and can display a range of symptoms however, the host plants incubation times for expressing different symptoms differed. The hosts that were found to be susceptible to BCMV after mechanical injection may act as a reservoir for the virus. Therefore, the data acquired for this study may help with the prognosis of diseases and the development of appropriate management approach.','-','c (2023). Host Range Studies of Bean common Mosaic Virus (BCMV) Infecting French Bean. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 15(10): 610-615.'),(7743,'148','Compatibility of Trichoderma hamatum with Chemical Fungicides and its effect on Yield of Green Gram','Adyasha Das and Shyama Sundar Mahapatra','Compatibility-of-Trichoderma-hamatum-with-Chemical-fungicides-and-its-effect-on-Yield-of-Green-Gram-Adyasha-Das-119.pdf','',1,'An examination was embraced to assess the similarity of fungicides at suggested measurements with Trichoderma hamatum being utilized as a biocontrol specialist against soil borne sicknesses of green gram in field conditions. Trichoderma hamatum was viewed as profoundly viable with valid amycin both under in-vivo conditions. In field condition, the development boundaries of green gram were additionally seen to be most noteworthy giving better return (12 q/ha) as well as higher B:C proportion (5.21) in the mix of Trichoderma hamatum and validamycin. Viable mixes at their suggested measurements can be suggested for coordinated administration for soil borne microbes of the harvest.','Trichoderma hamatum, fungicides, compatibility, B:C ratio, soil borne diseases','The present study indicates that application of Trichoderma would be compatible with fungicides (viz., Validamycin 3% L, Metalaxyl 8% +Mancozeb 64% WP, Copper oxychloride 50%WG) at recommended dosage and can be recommended for integrated management of soil borne pathogens of these crops. ','-','Adyasha Das and Shyama Sundar Mahapatra (2023). Compatibility of Trichoderma hamatum with Chemical fungicides and its effect on Yield of Green Gram. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 15(1): 728-731.'),(7744,'168','Storage Behavior of Guava Varieties Based on Biochemical Parameters','Ankit Gavri, Jeet Ram Sharma, Sanjay Kumar, Aayush Singla, Desh Raj Chaudhary and Ajay Sharma','Storage-Behavior-of-Guava-Varieties-Based-on-Biochemical-Parameters-Ankit-Gavri-117.pdf','',1,'An experiment was conducted with an aim to study biochemical changes of fifteen varieties of guava stored at ambient storage conditions at Department of Horticulture, Chaudhary Charan Singh Haryana Agriculture University, Hisar, Haryana during rainy and winter season of 2018-2019. All varieties exhibited considerable variation in their performance for most of the biochemical parameters. It was observed that there was significant increase in TSS, during both the seasons, regardless of varieties. On the other hand, acidity, pectin content and ascorbic acid of all the varieties was found to be decreased over the passage of storage time. However, all the varieties exhibit increasing trends in reducing sugar, non-reducing sugar and total sugar but during winter season sugar parameters was found to be first increased for six days then slightly decrease on 8th day. Among varieties, Hisar Safeda exhibited maximum reducing sugar and in winter season. Total sugar and reducing sugar in winter season and TSS in rainy season were recorded maximum in cv. Pant Parbhat. Pectin content during both the seasons and ascorbic acid, total sugar and non-reducing sugar in rainy season were recorded maximum in cv. L-49. Barf Khana had the maximum ascorbic acid in winter season and acidity found minimum in Arka Mridula and Allahabad Safeda in rainy and winter season respectively. Winter season fruits of all the varieties were much more superior to rainy season fruits.','Ambient, Hisar Safeda, Storage, Sugar, TSS','The obtained results showed decline in ascorbic acid, acidity and pectin content, with the passage of storage period, during both the seasons, irrespective of cultivars. On the other hand, TSS was found to be following an increasing trend. Among varieties, Hisar Safeda exhibited maximum reducing sugar. Firmness, total sugar, specific gravity and reducing sugar in winter season and TSS in rainy season were recorded maximum in cv. Pant Parbhat. Pectin content during both the seasons and ascorbic acid, total sugar and non-reducing sugar in rainy season were recorded maximum in cv. L-49. Barf Khana had the maximum ascorbic acid in winter season and acidity found minimum in ArkaMridula and Allahabad Safeda in rainy and winter season respectively. Winter season fruits of all the varieties were much more superior to rainy season fruits.','-','Ankit Gavri, Jeet Ram Sharma, Sanjay Kumar, Aayush Singla, Desh Raj Chaudhary and Ajay Sharma (2023). Storage Behavior of Guava Varieties Based on Biochemical Parameters. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 15(10): 616-623.\r\n'),(7745,'168','Crop Insurance and its Role in Indian Agriculture: A Comprehensive Review','Shruti Mishra and Vikas Verma','Crop-Insurance-and-its-Role-in-Indian-Agriculture-A-Comprehensive-Review-Shruti-Mishra-118.pdf','',1,'Crop insurance plays a crucial role in safeguarding the interests of farmers and ensuring the sustainability of Indian agriculture, which is highly vulnerable to climate risks. This comprehensive review paper aims to analyze the role of crop insurance in Indian agriculture by examining its historical evolution, policy frameworks, and implementation challenges. It also evaluates the impact of crop insurance on various aspects of Indian agriculture, including farmers\' livelihoods, agricultural productivity, and food security. The review focuses on major initiatives such as the Pradhan Mantri Fasal Bima Yojana (PMFBY) and the Weather-Based Crop Insurance Scheme (WBCIS), comparing their strengths and weaknesses in managing agricultural risks. Challenges in implementing crop insurance schemes, such as administrative and logistical issues, financial sustainability, and data collection, are discussed. The paper concludes by highlighting the need for innovative approaches and collaboration among stakeholders to enhance the effectiveness and reach of crop insurance in India. The study on Crop Insurance faces challenges such as data accuracy, farmer awareness, and policy implementation complexities. Despite these challenges. This review provides valuable insights for policymakers, researchers, and stakeholders in formulating strategies to enhance the resilience and sustainability of Indian agriculture.','Crop insurance, Indian agriculture, climate risks, Pradhan Mantri Fasal Bima Yojana, Weather-Based Crop Insurance Scheme','Crop insurance plays a vital role in Indian agriculture by providing financial protection, stabilizing food production, and managing market risks. However, there is still work to be done to enhance the effectiveness, efficiency, and reach of crop insurance schemes. Policy recommendations focusing on institutional coordination, data management, awareness generation, and innovative partnerships can contribute to the improvement of crop insurance programs. Overall, crop insurance has the potential to significantly contribute to the well-being of Indian farmers, agricultural stability, and food security. By addressing the identified challenges, embracing future prospects, and implementing evidence-based policy recommendations, crop insurance can continue to evolve and play an instrumental role in safeguarding the livelihoods of farmers and ensuring the sustainable development of Indian agriculture.','-','Shruti Mishra and Vikas Verma (2023). Crop Insurance and its Role in Indian Agriculture: A Comprehensive Review. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 15(10): 624-630.'),(7746,'168','Physio-mechanical Properties of Cotton Stalk for Development of Cotton Stalk Shredder cum uprooter','Srinidhi G., Sushilendra, Sunil Shirwal and Vijayakumar Palled ','Physio-mechanical-properties-of-Cotton-Stalk-for-Development-of-Cotton-Stalk-Shredder-cum-uprooter-SRINIDHI-G-119.pdf','',1,'Physio mechanical properties of cotton stalk is important for design of cotton stalk shredder cum uprooter. The current investigation about the physical and mechanical properties of cotton stalk. The average height of plant, stem diameter (bottom, middle and top portion), weight of one stalk, number of branches and moisture content, were 1007.40 mm, 10.42, 8.45 and 4.39 mm, 33 g, 14 and 28.7 per cent (wb), respectively. To find the mechanical properties cotton stalk divided into three portions. The average value of cutting force (top, middle and bottom) and cutting force (top, middle and bottom) portion of cotton stalk for cutting were found as 360.64, 1201.38, 1785.66 and 83.02, 163.01, 379.77 N, respectively. The minimum cutting force and fracturability360.64 N and 83.02 N was found at top portion and maximum cutting force and fracturability1785.66 N and 379.77 N was found at bottom portion, respectively. The hardness (top, middle and bottom) portion of cotton stalk for bending were found as 14.34, 60.62, 135.93 N, respectively. The minimum bending force 14.59 N was found at top portion and maximum bending force 135.93 N was found at bottom portion.','Bending, cutting force, fracturability, hardness, and physio mechanical properties','—The physical properties viz., height, diameter (bottom, middle, top portion), no of branches, weight and moisture content of cotton stalk were 1007.40, 10.42, 8.45, 4.39 mm, 14, 33 g and 28.7 per cent (wb), respectively.\r\n—The mechanical properties viz., cutting force (bottom, middle, top), fracturability (bottom, middle, top) for cutting test and bending force (bottom, middle, top) portion for bending test of cotton stalk were obtained as 1785.66, 1201.38, 360.64 N, 379.77, 163.01, 83.02 N and 135.93, 60.62, 14.34 N, respectively.\r\n','-','Srinidhi G., Sushilendra, Sunil Shirwal and Vijayakumar Palled (2023). Physio-mechanical properties of Cotton Stalk for Development of Cotton Stalk Shredder cum uprooter. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 15(10): 631-636.'),(7747,'168','Standardization of Pre-treatment for Dehydration of Tender Jack','B.S. Chandana, Y. Kantharaj, M. Ganapathi, N. Sudharani, H.S. Chaitanya and S. Chandana ','Standardization-of-Pre-treatment-for-Dehydration-of-Tender-Jack-Y-Kantharaj-120.pdf','',1,'Tender jack is generally consumed as a vegetable and it is characterized by its meat-like texture hence it is called as vegetarian meat, availability of tender jack in the market throughout the year is a critical aspect related to its trade. However, several factors limit its year around availability which include seasonal nature, geographically limited growth due to climatic variations, high perishability and difficulties related to storage and transportation due to limited technologies, as jackfruit is seasonal fruit dehydration is one of the best and suitable method for storage of tender jack during offseason. Tender jack is more prone to browning hence, pre-treating fruits for storage is an important step in preserving the produce. Taking this into consideration, standardization of pre-treatment for dehydration of tender jack was studied. The experiment was laid out in Completely Randomized Design (CRD) with seven treatment and three replications. The various pretreatments such as Potassium Metabisulphite (KMS), Citric Acid (CA) and Potassium Sorbate (PS) were used at different concentrations. Among different pretreatments, KMS 0.3 per cent showed the maximum carbohydrates (13.18 %), crude fiber (3.28 %), protein (2.26 %), starch (1.36 %) sensory color score (4.97) and low phenol (32.07 mg GAE/g). ','Tender jack, potassium metabisulphite, dehydration, pretreatment','Among all the pretreatments KMS 0.3 per cent showed the maximum carbohydrates, crude fiber, protein, starch, sensory color score and low phenol followed by KMS 0.2 per cent. Based on the findings about the biochemical and sensory characteristics (colour score) of fruits, it was determined that tender jack dehydration could be successfully accomplished by pre-treating the fruits with 0.3 per cent KMS.','-','B.S. Chandana, Y. Kantharaj, M. Ganapathi, N. Sudharani, H.S. Chaitanya and S. Chandana (2023). Standardization of Pre-treatment for Dehydration of Tender Jack. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 15(10): 637-639.'),(7748,'168','Prediction of related Soil Properties using Empirical Modelling Approach in Vertisols','Kurmi P., Rai H.K., Patel R., Pandey R., Agrawal K. and Raghuwanshi S.','Prediction-of-related-Soil-Properties-using-Empirical-Modelling-Kurmi-P-121.pdf','',1,'Soil, as a growth medium and through its various functions, plays a vital role in the production system. Empirical models are functions to explore widely available dataset to generate the impedance of one property on other correlated soil properties. In this paper, we tried to develop some empirical equations and easily understandable graphical representations for gaining better knowledge, particularly for vertisols of central India. The soil samples were collected from research farm of JNKVV, Jabalpur, India during the period 2018-2019. The samples from surface and sub-surface soil were analysed for SOC, cation exchange capacity, bulk density, penetration resistance and soil textural analysis, compiled to develop a regression models. The relationship of SOC with cation exchange capacity and bulk density; clay content with cation exchange capacity, bulk density, penetration resistance and liquid limit were developed. The models were found statistically significant with good predictability. Soil clay content had direct linear correlation (p< 0.05%) with coefficient of determination (R2) = 0.64 for CEC, 0.607 for bulk density, 0.732 for penetration resistance and 0.738 for liquid limit of soil. Soil organic carbon also had direct linear correlation (p< 0.05%) with coefficient of determination (R2) 0.849 while, bulk density (R2 = 0.74) was found inversely correlated with of soil organic carbon.','Empirical model, SOC, BD, Clay content, Penetration resistance','For vertisols of central India the predicted models can be used for evaluating the existing soil management practices, soil fertility assessment and nutrient recycling. The models are statistically significant and suggestions are accepted. The function can be utilized to generate expensive and laborious soil properties. Utilising PTFs is a practical tool, an affordable approach, and a simple methodology for determining the properties of soil, assessing its capacity to retain water, and helping farmers manage their water resources.','-','Kurmi P., Rai H.K., Patel R., Pandey R., Agrawal K. and Raghuwanshi S. (2023). Prediction of related Soil Properties using Empirical Modelling Approach in Vertisols. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 15(10): 640-643.'),(7749,'168','Effect of Harvesting Month and Pre-treatment on Sensory Properties of Frozen Jackfruit (Artocarpus heterophyllus Lam.) Bulbs','S. Chandana, B.S. Shivakumar, Y. Kantharaj, N. Sudharani, H.S. Yallesh Kumar and B.S. Chandana ','Effect-of-Harvesting-Month-and-Pre-treatment-on-Sensory-Properties-of-Frozen-Jackfruit-(Artocarpus-heterophyllus-Lam.)-Bulbs-BS-Shivakumar-122.pdf','',1,' Jackfruit is the seasonal fruit all harvested fruits comes to market in large quantities and it reduces the market value, so it is beneficial if the bulbs are processed and converted into diversified products. Organoleptic evaluation is an important parameter, as it is used to know the consumer preferences and acceptance of products. Hence the experiment was carried out to know the effect of harvesting month and pre-treatment on sensory attributes of frozen jackfruit bulbs. The experiment was laid out in Factorial Completely Randomised Design with two factors, factor M with 5 level i.e., jackfruit harvested during January (M1), February (M2), March (M3), April (M4) and May (M5), factor P with 3 levels i.e., bulbs pre-treated with ascorbic acid 2500ppm-AA(P1), sodium benzoate 500ppm-SB(P2) and potassium metabisulphite 500ppm-KMS(P3) and their combinations (MxP) with 3 replications. Among different harvesting months, M4 (April) recorded the maximum score for appearance, flavour, texture and overall acceptability. Among different pre-treatment SB recorded highest flavour and overall acceptability score and AA recorded the maximum score for appearance and texture. Among the combinations M4P1 (April+AA) recorded the maximum score for appearance (4.76) and texture (4.71), M4P2 (April+SB) recorded highest flavour (4.81) and overall acceptability (4.86) score. Considering all the sensory attributes M4P2 is significantly suitable for freezing method of preservation in jackfruit.\r\n','Frozen jackfruit bulb, harvesting months, pre-treatment, sensory evaluation','Considering the obtained results with respect to the sensory qualities of frozen jackfruit bulb. Among the different treatment combinations M4P2(jackfruit harvested in April and pre-treated with sodium benzoate at 500 ppm) showed better score for all sensory attributes like appearance, flavour, texture and overall acceptability. Even though H4P1 showed maximum texture and appearance score the flavour and overall acceptability scores were very low, because it imparted off flavour. Hence, based on obtained results jackfruit harvested in April and pre-treated with sodium benzoate at 500 ppm can be considered suitable for freezing. ','-','S. Chandana, B.S. Shivakumar, Y. Kantharaj, N. Sudharani, H.S. Yallesh Kumar and B.S. Chandana (2023). Effect of Harvesting Month and Pre-treatment on Sensory Properties of Frozen Jackfruit (Artocarpus heterophyllus Lam.) Bulbs. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 15(10): 644-647.'),(7750,'168','Chickpea Temperature Profile Development and its Implication under Microwave Treatment','Shaghaf Kaukab, Abhijit Kar, Shiva Dhar, Alka Mishra, Subramanian S. and Baidya Nath Mandal ','Chickpea-Temperature-Profile-Development-and-its-Implication-under-Microwave-Treatment-Shaghaf-Kaukab-123.pdf','',1,'Non-uniform temperature distribution is the major concern during microwave processing. Generation of heat and temperature during microwave treatment is purely based on the material’s intrinsic properties, therefore different material shows different behaviour. Microwave technology is often employed in legume crops for various reasons such as disinfestation, extraction, drying, roasting, pretreatment during milling operation etc. However, paucity of information on the microwave treatment and temperature behaviour, of legume crops are available. In the present study the temperature profile analysis and distribution are performed in the chickpea seeds at various power level (0– 800W) and treatment time (10 s – 50 s). A domestic-scale microwave at 2450 MHz was used for the experimental purpose to treat chickpeas. Surface temperature distribution was determined using an infra-red thermal sensor. The loss of moisture (% wet basis) from chickpea was correlated with the average surface temperature during microwave heating. A high positive correlation was observed (0.9) between the two parameters. Weighed amount of chickpea sample (50 g) was placed inside the microwave and treated at 0, 160, 320, 480, 640 and 800 W for 10 to 50s with 10 seconds of regular intervals. A temperature gradient was observed with each microwave treatment combination i.e. a non-uniform temperature distribution resulting into hot and cold regions within the treated sample. Results confirmed that power level and treatment time has a significant effect on the average surface temperature development (p<0.05). The study results proved that the temperature variation must be taken into consideration while designing any microwave system and the selection of microwave parameters (power level and treatment time) during experiments involving legumes. ','Microwave, power level, temperature profile, chickpea, surface temperature','The present study has demonstrated a significant temperature disparity in chickpea seeds during microwave treatment. The temperature variation is observed at all power levels and treatment times. However, the temperature difference is more pronounced at higher power levels and treatment durations than at lower levels. This increase in temperature is attributed to the elevated dielectric constant of chickpeas at higher temperatures. This variation can be minimized but not entirely eliminated. The loss in moisture content remains negligible up to 40 seconds of treatment with less than 1% loss at all power levels. Non uniform temperature distribution is because at some point temperature increased to very high and at some points temperature was significantly lower. Therefore, it is suggested that caution should be exercised with respect to the maximum temperature development during grain processing. This is because the quality of the grain may be compromised due to the elevated temperatures at certain locations, even if the average temperature falls within an acceptable range.','-','Shaghaf Kaukab, Abhijit Kar, Shiva Dhar, Alka Mishra, Subramanian S. and Baidya Nath Mandal (2023). Chickpea Temperature Profile Development and its Implication under Microwave Treatment. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 15(10): 648-653.'),(7751,'168','Effect of Different Levels of Residue Retention on Soil Physico-Chemical and Biological Properties at different Stages of Soybean Crop after Harvest under Conservation Agriculture','Ravi Kumar, A.K. Biswas, A.K. Vishwakarma, R.C. Jain, M.K. Tarwariya and Nimisha Tiwari ','Effect-of-Different-Levels-of-Residue-Retention-on-Soil-Physico-Chemical-and-Biological-Properties-at-different-Stages-of-Soybean-Crop-after-Harvest-under-Conservation-Agriculture-MK-Tarwariya-124.pdf','',1,'Adopting conservation agriculture with crop residue retention can enhance crop productivity, soil health and overall sustainability of soybean-wheat cropping system. Benefits of CA with crop residue application vary from location to location depending on management practices, agro-climatic condition and type of soil. However the effect of different levels of residue retention on soil properties and crop productivity in black soil of M.P. in soybean cropping system under conservation agriculture practices need to be studied. Keeping the above facts in view, a study was conducted during 2018-19 at ICAR- IISS, Bhopal and under this a experiment was carried out in randomized block design with four residue levels as treatments and six replications under soybean cropping system. So, the finding of the study indicate that Retention of 90% residue level in treatment T4 recorded significantly higher soil moisture content on dry weight and volume at 0-5 cm and 5-10 cm. With increase in levels of residues in soil after harvest of soybean crops OC of the soils under different treatments increased significantly. The highest SOC was recorded under treatment T4 (1.13%). Retention of different levels of residue significantly increased the soil available N, P & K status after harvest of soybean crops. Different residues level had significant effect on DHA. DHA, which indicates the microbial activity, was found to be increased with increasing levels of crop residues retention after harvest soybean crop.','Soil, Residue, Retention, Under, Level, Soybean, Crop','The present study clearly showed that residue retention along with no tillage under conservation agriculture in Soybean-Wheat system improve physical chemical and biological properties of a deep black soil of central India and there by contributed positively in affecting growth parameter, yield attributing characters and productivity of both Soybean and Wheat crops.','-','Ravi Kumar, A.K. Biswas, A.K. Vishwakarma, R.C. Jain, M.K. Tarwariya and Nimisha Tiwari (2023). Effect of Different Levels of Residue Retention on Soil Physico-Chemical and Biological Properties at different Stages of Soybean Crop after Harvest under Conservation Agriculture. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 15(10): 654-661.'),(7752,'168','Improving Maize Growth and Productivity through Endophytic Symbiosis under Field Condition','Roopashree B., Rajendra Prasad S. and Shivaranjan C.S.','Improving-Maize-Growth-and-Productivity-through-Endophytic-Symbiosis-under-Field-Condition-Roopashree-B-125.pdf','',1,'In this research study, a field experiment was conducted to assess the effects of three fungal endophytes, namely LAS-6 (Chaetomium sp), K-23 (Fusarium sp.), and P-37 (Ulocladium sp.) on plant growth and development. The experiment involved monitoring the plants at 30, 45, and 65 days after sowing (DAS) to evaluate various growth parameters. The results indicated that the application of these endophytes significantly enhanced plant height, stem girth, leaf area, shoot biomass, and SPAD chlorophyll meter reading (SCMR) compared to the control group. Moreover, the stomatal conductance, transpiration rate, and assimilation rates were notably higher in plants treated with endophytes, suggesting an improved physiological performance under field conditions at 30 DAS. Additionally, the endophyte-treated plants exhibited a shorter duration for anthesis and silking, indicating accelerated reproductive development. Furthermore, these plants recorded increased cob length, cob weight, number of kernels per row, and kernel row length, all of which are key components contributing to higher yield. These findings underscore the potential of fungal endophytes in enhancing crop productivity by positively influencing both vegetative and reproductive growth parameters. This research contributes valuable insights into the application of endophytic fungi for sustainable agricultural practices, offering a promising avenue for future studies in the field of plant-microbe interactions and crop improvement strategies.','Maize, endophytes, field condition, growth and yield parameters','In conclusion, this study explored the potential synergistic relationship between plants and endophytes as a means to enhance growth and yield in field conditions. These improvements can be attributed to the increased photosynthetic efficiency facilitated by endophyte treatment, possibly involving the secretion of phytohormones and enhanced nutrient uptake. Moreover, this positive impact on plant growth and physiology aligns with previous findings in different plant species. Furthermore, the study demonstrated that endophyte-inoculated plants exhibited a shorter time to anthesis and silking, increased cob weight, and higher test weights, resulting in an overall higher grain yield per plant. ','-','Roopashree B., Rajendra Prasad S. and Shivaranjan C.S. (2023). Improving Maize Growth and Productivity through Endophytic Symbiosis under Field Condition. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 15(10): 662-669.'),(7753,'168','Influence of Nitrogen Fixing Biofertilizers on Growth, Flowering, Quality and Yield of Lupine (Lupinus perennis L.) Cut Flower at Graded Levels of Nitrogen','Ayesha Siddiqua M., Hemla Naik B., Nandish M.S., Champa B.V. and Kantharaj Y. ','Influence-of-Nitrogen-Fixing-Biofertilizers-on-Growth,-Flowering,-Quality-and-Yield-of-Lupine-(Lupinus-perennis-L.)-Cut-Flower-at-Graded-Levels-of-Nitrogen-B-Hemla-Naik-126.pdf','',1,'Lupine (Lupinus perennis L.) cut flower is a very versatile cut flower with a lot of potential for usage. Since very little study has been done on the “Influence of nitrogen fixing biofertilizers on growth, flowering, quality and yield of Lupine at graded levels of nitrogen”, a study was carried out to obtain quality produce of Lupine cut flower. The experiment was laid out in Randomized Complete Block Design (RCBD) with 8 treatments and 3 replications. As the recommended dose of nitrogen is high, nitrogen is reduced up to 25 % and incorporated with biofertilizers which not only improved the flower quality and yield but also reduced the use of inorganic nitrogen which may affect the soil. The results revealed that growth parameters like plant height (59.36 cm), number of branches per plant (19.44) and number of leaves per plant (87.67) recorded maximum in treatment T7 (100% Recommended dose of nitrogen (75 kg/ha) + P (25 kg/ha) + K (45kg/ha) + Rhizobium + Azotobacter (625ml/ha))Whereas, flowering parameters such as minimum days taken for flower bud initiation (46.67), flower stalk emergence (49.60), 50 per cent flowering (22.20) and duration of flowering (164.52 days), whereas flower quality parameters like stalk length (69.51 cm), number of florets per stalk (135.20), diameter of flower (1.57 cm) and yield parameters like number of stalks per plant (6.25), per plot (224.88) and per hectare (4.63 lakhs) in treatment T8 (75 % Recommended dose of nitrogen (75 kg/ha) + P (25 kg/ha) + K (45 kg/ha) + Rhizobium + Azotobacter). Hence treatment T8 can be recommended.','Lupine, Biofertilizers, Cut flower, flower quality, flower yield and stalk length','Based on results obtained and facts mentioned in this chapter, among the different treatments T7(100 % RDN + Rhizobium + Azotobacter + P + K) influenced morphological parameters whereas T8 (75 % RDN + Rhizobium + Azotobacter + P + K) influenced flowering, cut flower quality and yield of Lupine, hence, it can be concluded that treatment T8 may be recommended for commercial cultivation of Lupine for cut flower production as it saves 25 % of nitrogen.','-','Ayesha Siddiqua M., Hemla Naik B., Nandish M.S., Champa B.V. and Kantharaj Y. (2023). Influence of Nitrogen Fixing Biofertilizers on Growth, Flowering, Quality and Yield of Lupine (Lupinus perennis L.) Cut Flower at Graded Levels of Nitrogen. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 15(10): 670-674.'),(7754,'168','Dissipation Kinetics and Risk Assessment of Thiamethoxam 25% WG in Chilli, Capsicum annuum L.','Anju Viswanathan K. and Ambily Paul ','Dissipation-Kinetics-and-Risk-Assessment-of-Thiamethoxam-25%-WG-in-Chilli,-Capsicum-annuum-L.-Anju-Viswanathan-K-127.pdf','',4,'Dissipation and risk assessment of 25 % thiamethoxam WG in chillies were carried out at the Pesticide Residue Research and Analytical Laboratory, College of Agriculture, Thiruvananthapuram. Since chilli is an important spice crop, it is routinely used in every Indian kitchen on an everyday basis, both directly and indirectly. So, it is very important to identify the amount of contaminants adhered to the product and its safety before consumption. Insecticide residue analysis of thiamethoxam was done, and a residue of 0.17 mg kg-1 was observed on the chilli after two hours of spraying. The residue reached below the limit of quantification on the fifth day after spraying. The risk assessment showed that the theoretical maximum residue contribution (TMRC) value was lower than the maximum permissible intake (MPI) value from the day of spraying, making the product safe for consumption.','Thiamethoxam, Chilli, Risk assessment, Insecticide residue, Dissipation, TMRC, MPI, LOQ, LC-MS/MS','On chillies, the thiamethoxam 25 % WG dissipation pattern adhered to first-order kinetics. After spraying, the thiamethoxam residues on the chilli reached below the limit of quantification on the fifth day. The first residue measured out to be 0.17 mg Kg-1. The initial residues decayed at a rate of 47.05 per cent on the first day following spraying, reaching a total of 0.09 mg Kg-1. Given the TMRC readings, it was significantly lower than the MPI measured two hours after the spraying event. Because of this, it was deemed safe to eat on the day it was sprayed. To be more precise, an adult weighing 60 kg can comfortably withstand a consumption of 0.85 µg of thiamethoxam without experiencing a significant risk to their life. All these factors mean that the specific insecticide can be used safely against the sucking pest of chilies at the appropriate level without endangering human health.','-','Anju Viswanathan K. and Ambily Paul (2023). Dissipation Kinetics and Risk Assessment of Thiamethoxam 25% WG in Chilli, Capsicum annuum L. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 15(10): 675-678.'),(7755,'168','Dissipation Kinetics and Risk Assessment of Thiamethoxam 25% WG in Chilli, Capsicum annuum L.','Anju Viswanathan K. and Ambily Paul ','Dissipation-Kinetics-and-Risk-Assessment-of-Thiamethoxam-25-WG-in-Chilli-Capsicum-annuum-L.-Anju-Viswanathan-K-127-7004.pdf','',1,'Dissipation and risk assessment of 25 % thiamethoxam WG in chillies were carried out at the Pesticide Residue Research and Analytical Laboratory, College of Agriculture, Thiruvananthapuram. Since chilli is an important spice crop, it is routinely used in every Indian kitchen on an everyday basis, both directly and indirectly. So, it is very important to identify the amount of contaminants adhered to the product and its safety before consumption. Insecticide residue analysis of thiamethoxam was done, and a residue of 0.17 mg kg-1 was observed on the chilli after two hours of spraying. The residue reached below the limit of quantification on the fifth day after spraying. The risk assessment showed that the theoretical maximum residue contribution (TMRC) value was lower than the maximum permissible intake (MPI) value from the day of spraying, making the product safe for consumption.','Thiamethoxam, Chilli, Risk assessment, Insecticide residue, Dissipation, TMRC, MPI, LOQ, LC-MS/MS','On chillies, the thiamethoxam 25 % WG dissipation pattern adhered to first-order kinetics. After spraying, the thiamethoxam residues on the chilli reached below the limit of quantification on the fifth day. The first residue measured out to be 0.17 mg Kg-1. The initial residues decayed at a rate of 47.05 per cent on the first day following spraying, reaching a total of 0.09 mg Kg-1. Given the TMRC readings, it was significantly lower than the MPI measured two hours after the spraying event. Because of this, it was deemed safe to eat on the day it was sprayed. To be more precise, an adult weighing 60 kg can comfortably withstand a consumption of 0.85 µg of thiamethoxam without experiencing a significant risk to their life. All these factors mean that the specific insecticide can be used safely against the sucking pest of chilies at the appropriate level without endangering human health.','-','Anju Viswanathan K. and Ambily Paul (2023). Dissipation Kinetics and Risk Assessment of Thiamethoxam 25% WG in Chilli, Capsicum annuum L. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 15(10): 675-678.'),(7756,'168','Impact of Culture Media and Temperature on Growth and Sclerotial Formation of Macrophomina phaseolina (Tassi) Goid. causing dry Root Rot of Mothbean','Megha Jaimini, J.R. Verma, Dama Ram, Surjeet and Govind Junjadia ','Impact-of-Culture-Media-and-Temperature-on-Growth-and-Sclerotial-Formation-of-Macrophomina-phaseolina-(Tassi)-Goid.-causing-dry-Root-Rot-of-Mothbean-Megha-Jaimini-128.pdf','',1,'Macrophomina phaseolina causal agent of dry root rot and charcoal rot in various pulses crops. Due to fluctuation of temperature and climatic disturbance in arid region is quite difficult to manage the dry root rot. To reduce the number of sclerotia in soil or to minimize the contact of the inoculums and the host, six different culture media and temperature were tested for their suitability on mycelial growth and sclerotial formation of the M. phaseolina in vitro conditions. Among the six media PDA recorded highest (90.00 mm) followed by Richard’s agar (86.75 mm) media best for mycelial growth as well as for sclerotial formation. While, minimum growth (43.00 mm) was recorded in Sabouraud’s agar medium. Six different temperature levels viz., 15, 20, 25, 30, 35 and 40ºC were used for the study. The results indicated that the mycelial growth of M. Phaseolina was significantly grew best at 30ºC temperature (90.00 mm) followed by 35ºC temperature (84.50 mm), which was reduced significantly below 15°C and above 40°C.','Mothbean, media, temperature, sclerotia, PDA, Macrophomina phaseolina','Overall the pathogen associated with dry root rot of mothbean was grow best on Potato dextrose agar media as well as excellent sclerotial formation on PDA at 30ºC temperature which was reduced significantly below 20°C and above 35°C in artificially conditions.','-','Megha Jaimini, J.R. Verma, Dama Ram, Surjeet and Govind Junjadia (2023). Impact of Culture Media and Temperature on Growth and Sclerotial Formation of Macrophomina phaseolina (Tassi) Goid. causing dry Root Rot of Mothbean. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 15(10): 679-683.'),(7757,'168','Effect of Cutting Frequency on Growth and Yield of Beet Leaf intercropped with Onion Seed Crop','K.S. Saini, S.K. Dhankhar and D.R. Choudhary','Effect-of-Cutting-Frequency-on-Growth-and-Yield-of-Beet-Leaf-intercropped-with-Onion-Seed-Crop-D.R.-Choudhary-129.pdf','',1,'A field experiment was conducted during the Rabi seasons of 2018-19 and 2019-20. Onion is a biennial crop; to produce seeds, it takes two full seasons. The objective was that, in this long period, the farmer could take beet leaf as an intercrop for continuous earnings with the onion seed crop. There were nine intercropping combinations treated as treatments with three replications each. The onion spacing was 60×30 cm grown as the main seed crop, and intercrop beet leaf spacing was 15×5 cm. There were 1 or 2 rows of beet leaf between the onion plant spacing with different cutting frequencies. Two years pooled data was found that the treatment T2: Onion + Beet leaf (1 row) 3 cuttings were highest in leaf length (14.5 cm), leaf width (8.3 cm), petiole length (13.2 cm), onion seed yield (481 kg ha-1), lowest leaf yield (93.3 q ha-1). While among the intercropping treatment T9: onion + beet leaf (2 rows) 6 cuttings were recorded minimum leaf length (12.2 cm), leaf width (7.0 cm), petiole length (11.1cm), onion seed yield (404 kg ha-1), and highest leaf yield (250.5 q ha-1). Whereas, treatment T1: sole crop beet leaf recorded in leaf length (12.0 cm), leaf width (7.1 cm), petiole length (11.0 cm), highest leaf yield (412.7 q ha-1), lowest onion equivalent yield (330.1 kg ha-1). Finally, the significant outcomes of this study were that the farmers may get frequent income but lower net returns due to the fairly good onion seed yield in the intercropping patterns. ','Beet leaf, cutting frequency, leaf yield, intercropping, onion seed crop, equivalent yield','Onion crop is a biennial, requiring two complete growing seasons to yield seeds. Over this prolonged time frame, the farmer might use beet leaf as an intercrop to provide ongoing income. A study was carried out to determine the optimal intercropping combination without compromising the income keeping this in mind. Lastly, one of the study\'s major findings was that although the intercropping patterns produced a reasonably decent yield of onion seeds, the farmers may get frequent revenue but lower net returns.','-','K.S. Saini, S.K. Dhankhar and D.R. Choudhary (2023). Effect of Cutting Frequency on Growth and Yield of Beet Leaf intercropped with Onion Seed Crop. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 15(10): 684-688.'),(7758,'168','Growth and Soil Health Influenced by Different Mulching and Irrigation Levels in Sunflower during Summer','Irrigation Level, IW/CPE ratio, Mulch, Soil health, Water productivity','Growth-and-Soil-Health-Influenced-by-Different-Mulching-and-Irrigation-Levels-in-Sunflower-during-Summer-Jeetendra-Kumar-130.pdf','',1,'Optimizing water usage is essential for achieving higher crop and water productivity. In this study, conducted in 2019, we aimed to assess water management strategies to enhance productivity and profitability in sunflower cultivation. We implemented various combinations of mulching and irrigation levels, which included three mulch types: no mulch, straw mulch and polythene mulch, along with four levels of irrigation: critical stages, 0.8, 1.0 and 1.2 IW/CPE. Results revealed that polythene mulch led to highest values for growth parameter such as plant height, dry matter accumulation (DMA), number of leaves, stem diameter, SPAD values and nutrient content in grain and stover. Additionally, soil microbial biomass carbon (SMBC) and enzymatic activity were most pronounced in plots with straw mulch. Among the different irrigation schedules, 1.2 IW/CPE level demonstrated superior performances, exhibiting higher growth attributes, nutrient content in both grain and stover and total uptake of nutrients. Furthermore, the application of irrigation at 1.0 IW/CPE resulted in highest SMBC and enzymatic activity in soil. This research sheds light on the potential benefits of polythene mulch and optimized irrigation schedules for enhancing sunflower cultivation in the Tarai region of Uttarakhand, with implications for improved crop yields and soil health.','Irrigation Level, IW/CPE ratio, Mulch, Soil health, Water productivity','The experimental results indicated that polythene mulch with 1.2 IW/CPE ratio gave significantly higher plant height, dry matter accumulation, stem diameter, number of leaves, SPAD values and soil chemical properties while straw mulch with 1.0 irrigation schedules gave beneficial SMBC and soil enzymatic activity. Therefore, it is concluded that sunflower may be grown under straw mulch with 1.0 IW/CPE irrigation schedules for economical way.','-','Rakesh Dawar, Jeetendra Kumar, Th. Nengparmoi, K. Jaisimha Reddy, Indrani Debasmita Borah, Mohammed Saleh Al Ansari and Okram Ricky Devi (2023). Growth and Soil Health Influenced by Different Mulching and Irrigation Levels in Sunflower during Summer. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 15(10): 689-694.'),(7759,'168','Effect of Bio-Stimulant Application on Seed Yield and Seed Quality in Rice \r\n(Oryza sativa L.)\r\n','Elavarasan E., A. Kamaraj, B. Sunil Kumar, P. Satheeshkumar and S. Suganthi ','Effect-of-Bio-Stimulant-Application-on-Seed-Yield-and-Seed-Quality-in-Rice-A-Kamaraj-95.pdf','',1,'Bio-stimulant has demonstrated advantages in crop growth and seed quality across a range of crops. Due to low field population and nutrient disorders after transplanting—possibly as a result of inadequate root establishment —rice production was decreased. By keeping these criteria, a field trial was carried out to study the effect of root dipping with seaweed extracts on seed yield and quality in rice cv. ADT 36. The seedling\'s roots were dipped in seaweed extract of two species viz., Gracilaria carticata and Sargassum wightii in different concentrations viz., 5%, 10%, 15%, and 20% for 1 hour each, along with the control. The results showed that the roots of rice seedlings before transplanting dipped in 20% Sargassum wightii seaweed extract for 1 hour registered higher values for growth parameters and yield parameters. The harvested seeds from the plants of the above treatment registered the better seed quality which could be a boon to the farmers for getting the better crop and yield. Hence, the roots of rice seedlings before transplanting could be dipped in 20% Sargassum wightii seaweed extract for 1 hour to acquire better seed yield and seed quality.','Rice, root dipping, Seaweed extract, seed quality, seed yield','Overall, the results of the field experiment suggest that the use of seaweed extract, particularly Sargassam wightii, as a root dipping treatment for rice seedlings before transplanting can significantly improve various growth parameters and seed yield. The presence of nutrients, growth hormones, and other bioactive compounds in seaweed extract may have contributed to the observed effects on plant growth and development. The highest concentration of seaweed extract (20%) showed the most significant improvements in plant height, number of tillers, panicle length, leaf length, leaf breadth, number of seeds per panicle, seed yield per plant, and dry matter yield per plant. The current study concluded that the roots of rice seedlings before transplanting could be dipped in 20% Sargassum wightii seaweed extract concentration for 1 hour to realize better seed yield and seed quality. These findings support the potential use of seaweed extract as a natural and sustainable plant growth regulator in rice seed production.','-','Elavarasan E., A. Kamaraj, B. Sunil Kumar, P. Satheeshkumar and S. Suganthi (2023). Effect of Bio-Stimulant Application on Seed Yield and Seed Quality in Rice (Oryza sativa L.). Biological Forum – An International Journal, 15(10): 493-497.'),(7760,'168','Development of Chitosan based Electrospun Nanofibers for Active and Intelligent Packaging','Shourathunnisa Begum, Sharanagouda Hiregoudar, Udaykumar Nidoni, Ramappa K.T., Kurubar A.R. and Saroja N. Rao ','Development-of-Chitosan-based-Electrospun-Nanofibers-for-Active-and-Intelligent-Packaging-Shourathunnisa-Begum-131.pdf','',1,'The active and intelligent packaging market is rapidly growing, driven by the increasing demand for fresher, higher quality food at reasonable costs. Nanotechnology, with its unique properties and potential applications, has emerged as a promising field for improving food packaging. Electrospinning, a simple technique for producing ultrafine polymer fibers, is particularly relevant in this context. Chitosan, a biocompatible, biodegradable polymer, has shown remarkable potential in the development of electrospun nanofibers for intelligent packaging applications. This study focuses on the development of chitosan-based electrospun nanofibers and their suitability for smart packaging. Optimal conditions for achieving smaller diameter nanofibers were identified as 1.0 mL h-1 flow rate and 25 kV of voltage.','Electrospinning, Flow rate, Voltage, Viscosity and Surface tension, Chitosan, Nanotechnology','The development of chitosan based electrospun nanofibers for intelligent packaging holds significant promise for enhancing the active and intelligent packaging market. Electrospinning of chitosan offers a sustainable and biodegradable solution with properties like biocompatibility, biodegradability, and a high surface area-to-volume ratio, making it an ideal candidate for applications in smart packaging. The experimental results have provided insights into the key parameters for successful electrospinning of chitosan nanofibers. The electrical conductivity, viscosity, and surface tension of the chitosan solution play crucial roles in determining the quality of nanofibers. Furthermore, the diameter and morphological characterization of the electrospun nanofibers showed that the choice of flow rate and voltage significantly influences the nanofiber size and morphology. The most favorable conditions for obtaining smaller diameter nanofibers were at a flow rate of 1.0 mL. h-1 and a voltage of 25 kV. In the context of intelligent packaging, these electrospun chitosan nanofibers exhibit great potential for various applications, including pH-sensitive indicators, food and beverage packaging, and other areas where pH changes are involved. The development of eco-friendly, biodegradable nanofiber materials aligns with the growing demand for sustainable packaging solutions in the food industry. The use of chitosan-based electrospun nanofibers opens up new possibilities for innovative and environmentally friendly packaging solutions, contributing to the evolution of active and intelligent packaging technologies to meet the demands of the global food market. ','-','Shourathunnisa Begum, Sharanagouda Hiregoudar, Udaykumar Nidoni, Ramappa K.T., Kurubar A.R. and Saroja N. Rao (2023). Development of Chitosan based Electrospun Nanofibers for Active and Intelligent Packaging. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 15(10): 695-698.'),(7761,'168','Analyzing the Impact of Chemical and Biofertilizer Seed Treatments on the Quality of Wheat (Triticum aestivum L.) Seeds','Sultan Singh, Virender Singh Mor, Axay Bhuker, Gagandeep Singh, Digamber and Rahul Kumar','Analyzing-the-Impact-of-Chemical-and-Biofertilizer-Seed-Treatments-on-the-Quality-of-Wheat-(Triticum-aestivum-L.)-Seeds-Sultan-Singh-132.pdf','',1,'Seed is the most crucial input for gaining a plentiful output. The germination of the seed in the field condition is hampered by various edaphic factors alongwith different pests. So it becomes necessary to treat the seed before sowing with various chemical and biological agents. That’s why seed treatment with insecticides, fungicides and biofertilizers has gained significant importance as a practice to ensure the initial establishment of crops. This escalating dependence has, in turn, led to a gradual decline in the production of high-quality seeds. This study was undertaken to examine the impact of chlorpyrifos, vitavax, Azotobacter and phosphate solubilizing bacteria on seed quality of wheat during 2018 to 2020 at the Department of Seed Science and Technology, Chaudhary Charan Singh Haryana Agricultural University, Hisar, Haryana. In this study, two wheat varieties WH1105 and WH1124 and their one year old harvested seeds and freshly harvested seed lots were used. The findings revealed that seeds treated with T2-Azotobacter+PSB showed significant results across several parameters. The maximum speed of germination was recorded in treatment T6-(Chlorpyrifos+Azotobacter+PSB) and chlorpyrifos subsequently led to the germination of abnormal seedlings. In other parameters such as, germination, seedling length, seedling dry weight, vigor indices, field emergence index and seedling establishment were observed maximum with treatment T2-Azotobacter+PSB. The findings suggest that biofertilizers deliver a positive enhancement to seed quality and serve as a feasible alternative to pesticides. It has been observed that biofertilizers contribute to increased speed of germination, germination percentage, vigor indices, field emergence, and seedling establishment both in the laboratory and in the field. On the other hand, it has been observed that fungicides and insecticides negatively affect seed quality.','Azotobacter, Biofertilizers, Phosphate solubilizing bacteria, Treatments, Wheat, Quality seed','Based on the current investigation, it can be ascertained that seed treatment with T2-Azotobacter+PSB had maximum improvement in all seed quality parameters and it was the best treatment combination for enhancing the quality of the wheat seeds. During the combined application of chlorpyrifos, vitavax, and biofertilizers, it leads to a decline in the quality of wheat seeds.','-','Sultan Singh, Virender Singh Mor, Axay Bhuker, Gagandeep Singh, Digamber and Rahul Kumar (2023). Analyzing theImpact of Chemical and Biofertilizer Seed Treatments on the Quality of Wheat (Triticum aestivum L.) Seeds. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 15(10): 699-705.'),(7762,'168','Development of Profile Meter for Measuring Displacement and Disturbance of Soil by Ridger','Avinash Kumar, Atul Kumar Shrivastava, Yalaka Nandini and Rohit Namdeo ','Development-of-Profile-Meter-for-Measuring-Displacement-and-Disturbance-of-Soil-by-Ridger-Avinash-Kumar-133.pdf','',1,'A specialized Soil Profile Meter was developed to assess the degree of soil disruption caused by various types of ridgers. Constructed from mild steel, steel, and aluminum composite panel materials, the meter measures 80×100cm in width and height. To calculate the area of soil disruption, three ridgers were simultaneously attached to the tool test setup, integrated into a tool trolley within a soil bin. The tool test setup, connected to the Extended Octagonal Ring Transducer (EORT) with a force limit of 5 KN, measured forces in the horizontal (Fx), vertical (Fy), and moment (My) directions as it was pulled through the tool trolley. Power for the soil processing and tool carriage trolley was provided by a 15-hp electric motor, with different operation speeds achieved by adjusting the motor\'s rpm through the Human Machine Interface (HMI). In the soil bin, the tool disrupted the soil at depths of 8, 10, 12, 14, and 16 cm. The ridgers used for soil loosening were of tyne, hoe, and shovel types. Some challenges were faced during the measurement of exact ridge height and soil volume after passing the ridgers. So, it was the needful task to design the soil profile meter for measuring the soil profiles. After calibration, the profile meter was positioned across the tilled soil to measure parameters such as width of soil throw, width of cut, ridge-to-ridge distance, height of ridge furrow, and tool width for each ridger operation. The collected data were thoroughly analyzed to establish relationships between the depth of ridger operation and the extent of soil disturbance. Among the ridger types, the hoe type demonstrated the highest soil loosening capacity at all operating depths, followed by the shovel type and the tyne type. Notably, at a fixed width of 40 cm and a speed of 2.5 kmph, the ridger with wings exhibited the greatest soil loosening ability across all depths. The hoe type ridger achieved an estimated transverse soil disturbance area of 82 cm, while the shovel and tyne types recorded 75.5 cm and 69.9 cm, respectively. Conversely, at a working depth of 16 cm, the hoe type ridger again outperformed the others, achieving 84 cm of soil disturbance, with the shovel and tyne types recording 78 cm and 72 cm, respectively.','Profilemeter, Width, Depth, Vertisol, Width of Soil Throw, Ridger','The research work yields the following conclusions:\r\n— A profile meter was successfully designed, fabricated, and tested during the operation of ridgers in the indoor soil bin facility.\r\n— The profile meter demonstrated superior ease and accuracy in soil disturbance measurement compared to the traditional use of a meter rule.\r\n— At a speed of 2.5 kmph and with a fixed width of 40 cm for ridger wings, the hoe type ridger exhibited the highest soil loosening ability at all depths, with an estimated transverse soil disturbance area of 82 cm. In comparison, the shovel and tyne type ridgers recorded 75.5 and 69.9, respectively. At the highest working depth of 16 cm, the hoe type ridger maintained its lead with 84 cm, followed by the shovel and tyne type ridgers with 78 and 72, respectively.\r\n— The profile meter consistently provided more convenient and accurate results in soil disturbance measurement than the conventional use of a meter rule.\r\n','-','Avinash Kumar, Atul Kumar Shrivastava, Yalaka Nandini and Rohit Namdeo (2023). Development of Profile Meter for Measuring Displacement and Disturbance of Soil by Ridger. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 15(10): 706-710.'),(7763,'168','Impact of Packaging Materials on the Shelf Life and Fruit Quality of Acid Lime (Citrus aurantifolia Swingle) under Ambient Storage Conditions','Prasad Patil, MD. Jameel Jhalegar, Viresh Mallayya Hiremath, Sateesh Pattepur, Noorulla Haveri, Shripad Pandurang Vishweshwar and Sanganabasav G. Gollagi ','Impact-of-Packaging-Materials-on-the-Shelf-Life-and-Fruit-Quality-of-Acid-Lime-(Citrus-aurantifolia-Swingle)-under-Ambient-Storage-Conditions-Prasad-Patil-134.pdf','',1,'Acid lime (Citrus aurantifolia Swingle) is a widely consumed citrus fruit, but its shelf life is limited. Therefore, an investigation was aimed to evaluate the efficacy of different packaging materials viz., Gunny bags, Nylon net bags, HDPE (High-density polyethylene), LDPE-film (Low-density polyethylene) and open crates on storage life and fruit quality of acid lime fruits (Citrus aurantifolia Swingle). The packed fruits were kept under ambient storage conditions up to 40 days. The fruits were analyzed at 5 days interval and assessed for different quality parameters. The results indicate variability among the different packaging treatments for physiological loss in weight, juice content, firmness, fruit decay percentage, total soluble solids (TSS), titratable acidity (TA), pH, Brix/acid ratio and organoleptic attributes. Among all packaging treatments, HDPE film with perforation was the most effective in maintaining various fruit quality parameters such as TSS, TA, pH, Brix/acid ratio, physiological loss in weight, juice content, firmness, least fruit decay percentage and better sensory attributes, upto 40 days in ambient storage. ','Post harvest, HDPE, Shelf life, Acid lime, Ambient storage','HDPE packaging films significantly reduced physiological loss in weight reported least fruit decay percent, TSS, Brix/acid ratio and pH, maintain the better firmness and retained the significantly highest content of titratable acidity, juice and better sensory attributes in ambient stored acid lime fruit up to 40 days.','-','Prasad Patil, MD. Jameel Jhalegar, Viresh Mallayya Hiremath, Sateesh Pattepur, Noorulla Haveri, Shripad Pandurang Vishweshwar and Sanganabasav G. Gollagi (2023). Impact of Packaging Materials on the Shelf Life and Fruit Quality of Acid Lime (Citrus aurantifolia Swingle) under Ambient Storage Conditions. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 15(10): 711-718.'),(7764,'168','Understanding the Drivers of Consumer Buying Decisions in the Organic Food Market: A Perspective of Firms and Retailers','K.M. Suman, Siddayya and M.S. Ganapathy ','Understanding-the-Drivers-of-Consumer-Buying-Decisions-in-the-Organic-Food-Market-A-Perspective-of-Firms-and-Retailers-KM-SUMAN-135.pdf','',1,'The present study aimed to analyse the factors influencing the consumer buying decisions in organic food market in view of firms and retailers. For the study 40 organic retail stores were selected. 5-point Likert scale were used to compute the factors driving the consumer decisions. The results showed that consumers prioritize chemical-free/naturally grown products with mean Garrett’s score of 46.42. From the demand factors it was indicated that there is a bright future for organic food products business with 75.00 per cent of the respondents strongly agreeing. Whereas word-of-mouth recommendation played a significant role in promotion of organic products (77.50 %). On the other hand, it was believed that consumers feel that the organic products are costly (45.00 %). 57.50 per cent of the firms strongly agreed that labelling creates a feeling of trust among consumers. Majority (82.50 %) of the firms strongly agreed health and product safety concerns are gaining importance among consumers. Majority of the firms strongly agreed that the organic food products are expensive (40.00 %) and thus is the factor responsible for not buying the organic food products. The results also revealed that majority of the firms (87.50 %) the consumption of organic food products might increase if the products are less costly. Some of the major challenges identified from the study were higher cost, shorter shelf life, limited availability, lack of awareness, lack of trust about the authenticity of organic food products. According to the study understanding the factors that influence consumer buying decisions in this market is crucial. This research, from the perspective of firms and retailers, explores the dynamics that shape these decisions. This research also unveils barriers to organic food product consumption, including cost, information gaps, and perishability perceptions. Addressing these challenges by reducing prices, providing better information, and improving storage practices can increase organic food consumption.','Organic, Firms, Retailers, Consumers, Buying decisions, Perceptions','From the study it can be concluded that the organic food industry is experiencing a significant upswing, with consumer showing interest, in healthier and more sustainable food choices. In this regard, understanding the factors influencing consumer buying decisions is crucial for the success of businesses and retailers operating in the organic food market. This study has examined these factors from the unique perspective of firms and retailers.\r\nChemical-free and naturally grown products emerged as the most influential factors in driving consumer choices, indicating a strong preference for natural and safe food options. Consumers are increasingly prioritizing safety and health, as demonstrated by their choice for products ideal for all age groups, combining versatility with nutrition. Lack of trust and information are factors that discourage purchases, highlighting the importance of building credibility and educating consumers about organic food products. Firms and retailers perceive a promising future for organic food products, with high demand expected to continue, driven by growing health and environmental awareness. Word-of-mouth recommendations and media play essential roles in promoting these products, but awareness initiatives are needed to educate consumers and highlight research findings. Price concerns are evident, with consumers viewing organic products as expensive. However, consumers are willing to pay a premium for these products, reflecting their commitment to quality and sustainability. Clear labelling significantly influences consumer trust, emphasizing the importance of transparent information.\r\nThe study identifies various barriers to organic food product consumption, including cost, lack of information, and perceived perishability. To increase consumption, these barriers need to be addressed by reducing prices, enhancing product information, and improving storage practices.\r\n','-','K.M. Suman, Siddayya and M.S. Ganapathy (2023). Understanding the Drivers of Consumer Buying Decisions in the Organic Food Market: A Perspective of Firms and Retailers. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 15(10): 719-726.'),(7765,'168','Response of Organic Manures and Panchagavya on Yield Attributes of Cauliflower (Brassica oleracea L. var botrytis)','Gajendra Chawla, Kuldeep Hariyana, Pooja Tetarwal, Anil Khinchi, Salman Khan and Pushpendra Kumar ','Response-of-Organic-Manures-and-Panchagavya-on-Yield-Attributes-of-Cauliflower-(Brassica-oleracea-L.-var-botrytis)-Gajendra-Chawla-136.pdf','',1,'The present investigation was carried out with organic manures and Panchagavya on yield attributes of cauliflower at Technology Park, CTAE, MPUAT, Udaipur during rabi season 2021-22. The sixteen-treatment combination comprised of sole and combined application organic manures (FYM and vermicompost) and four levels of panchagavya were evaluated on cauliflower crop with three replications under factorial RBD design. The observations recorded for polar and equatorial diameter of curd, fresh weight of curd, volume of curd, yield kg/plot and q/ha of cauliflower. Result showed that among organic manures application of T4 treatment (50 per cent RDN through FYM and 50 per cent RDN through vermicompost) as soil application recorded maximum polar diameter of curd, equatorial diameter of curd, fresh weight of curd, volume of curd, yield of curd and yield per ha. with 11.60 cm, 14.55 cm, 593.08 g, 671.30 cm3, 17.16 kg/plot and 295.84 q/ha, respectively. However, panchagavya application i.e., treatment T4 (10 per cent Panchagavya spray at 30 and 45 DAT) recorded maximum polar diameter of curd, equatorial diameter of curd, fresh weight of curd, volume of curd, yield of curd and yield per ha. with 10.98 cm, 13.12 cm, 551.75 g, 626.66 cm3, 15.77 kg/plot and 271.89 q/ha, respectively.','Cauliflower, FYM, organic, panchagavya, vermicompost','Based on a comprehensive analysis of yield data, it can be concluded that the treatment of organic manures T4, which involves the use of 50% RDN through FYM combined with 50% RDN through vermicompost, similarly panchagavya treatment T4 application of 10 per cent panchagavya spray at 30 and 45 DAT mostly accountable for enhancing the various factors contributing to crop production.','-','Gajendra Chawla, Kuldeep Hariyana, Pooja Tetarwal, Anil Khinchi, Salman Khan and Pushpendra Kumar (2023). Response of Organic Manures and Panchagavya on Yield Attributes of Cauliflower (Brassica oleracea L. var botrytis). Biological Forum – An International Journal, 15(10): 727-730.'),(7766,'168','Genetic variability of Ginger (Zingiber officinale Rosc.) Collections for Growth and Yield Characters','Tumminakatti Altaf, B. Fakrudin, B. N. Maruthiprasad, Vishnuvardhana, G. J. Suresha, G. Manjunath and J. Venkatesha','Genetic-variability-of-Ginger-(Zingiber-officinale-Rosc.)-Collections-for-Growth-and-Yield-Characters-ALTAF-TUMMINAKATTI-137.pdf','',1,'Ginger is grown as a number of landraces and locally popular cultivars in Karnataka, India and there is a need for the assessment of variability present among landraces and locally popular cultivars growing in Karnataka. Therefore, a set of 45 ginger collections were collected from several parts of Karnataka was subjected to field evaluation in augmented block design by using four checks in four blocks. This investigation was conducted to study the genetic variability of ginger collections for growth and yield parameters. For all of the parameters studied, there was a broad genetic variation among the collections; high PCV and GCV was recorded in dry rhizome yield per hectare, followed by rhizome yield per hectare, length of the primary rhizome, rhizome yield per plant and number of secondary rhizome, respectively. In every case, high phenotypic variances were observed than the genotypic variances. Depends on high heritability together with high genetic advance as per cent of mean, number of secondary rhizomes, length of the primary rhizome, rhizome yield per plant, length of secondary rhizome, girth of secondary rhizome, girth of primary rhizome and number of primary rhizomes were identified as superior traits and exhibit additive genetic variance. These characteristics would be considered in effective selection. ','Genetic variability, PCV, GCV, heritability, genetic advance','The growth and yield characters evaluated had genotypіc and phenotypіc coefficіent of varіation in the present study. That demonstrates the genetic diversity of ginger grown in Karnataka, India. The number of secondary rhizomes, length of the primary rhizome, rhizome yield per plant, length of the secondary rhizome and girth of the secondary rhizome were estimated to have hіgh heritability together with hіgh genetic gain, indicated that clonal selection for these parameters can be successful in ginger.','-','Tumminakatti Altaf, B. Fakrudin, B. N. Maruthiprasad, Vishnuvardhana, G. J. Suresha, G. Manjunath and J. Venkatesha (2023). Genetic variability of Ginger (Zingiber officinale Rosc.) Collections for Growth and Yield Characters. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 15(10): 731-736.'),(7767,'168','Assessment of Qualitative and Quantitative Parameters of Leaf and Flower of Different Spray Chrysanthemum Genotypes','Pravinkumar Yumkhaibam, Kalkame Ch. Momin, Sunil Kumar, A.S. Mailappa, Veluru Bhargav, Nimbolkar Prashant Kisan, Tabalique Yumkhaibam, Rituraj Dutta and Khwairakpam Rozerto','Assessment-of-Qualitative-and-Quantitative-Parameters-of-Leaf-and-Flower-of-Different-Spray-Chrysanthemum-Genotypes-Pravinkumar-Yumkhaibam-138.pdf','',1,'Chrysanthemum (Chrysanthemum morifolium Ramat) which belongs to the Asteraceae family and find their place in the market as cut flowers, loose blooms, and potted plants. An experiment was carried out with 20 genotypes of spray chrysanthemum to evaluate the performance for vegetative and flowering characters in RBD with three replications, during the year 2022-23 at the Department of Floriculture and Landscape Architecture, College of Horticulture and Forestry, Central Agricultural University, Pasighat, Arunachal Pradesh. Significant variations among the 20 genotypes were observed for all the characters. The genotype BC-24 recorded maximum leaf length (12.67 cm) and maximum petiole length (3.30 cm). The genotype Bidhan Sweeta was observed the maximum leaf breadth (6.59 cm). Maximum flower head height (3.67 cm) was noted in genotype BC-31, maximum ray floret length (3.93 cm) and maximum ray floret width (0.85 cm) was observed in genotype Bidhan Shova. Among the 20 spray chrysanthemum genotypes evaluated, Bidhan Mallika and Bidhan Sweeta performed the best in terms of flower colour, Chrysanthemum genotypes have a broad range of variation in their leaf colour, flower head type and flower colour which may be used for various purposes.','Spray Chrysanthemum, genotypes, vegetative, flowering, variation','In conclusion, the study revealed significant variations in leaf length, leaf breadth, and petiole length among different chrysanthemum genotypes at various stages of growth. Genotype BC-24 consistently exhibited the maximum leaf length throughout the growth stages, while genotype BC-59 consistently had the minimum leaf length. The findings highlight the diversity in morphological traits among chrysanthemum genotypes, providing valuable insights for further research and breeding efforts in this plant species. The study also unveiled noteworthy variations in the morphological characteristics of chrysanthemum flower heads among different genotypes. These findings shed light on the diverse characteristics of chrysanthemum genotypes, offering valuable insights for further research and breeding programs aimed at enhancing the quality and appearance of this beloved flower.','-','Pravinkumar Yumkhaibam, Kalkame Ch. Momin, Sunil Kumar, A.S. Mailappa, Veluru Bhargav, Nimbolkar Prashant Kisan, Tabalique Yumkhaibam, Rituraj Dutta and Khwairakpam Rozerto (2023). Assessment of Qualitative and Quantitative Parameters of Leaf and Flower of Different Spray Chrysanthemum Genotypes. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 15(10): 737-741.'),(7768,'168','Standardization of Peel Shape and Sugar Levels in Steeping Solution on the Physico-chemical and Sensory Attributes of Acid Lime (Citrus aurantifolia Swingle) Peel Candy','Prasad Patil, MD. Jameel Jhalegar, Viresh Mallayya Hiremath, Sateesh Pattepur, Noorulla Haveri, Shripad Pandurang Vishweshwar and Sanganabasav G. Gollagi ','Standardization-of-Peel-Shape-and-Sugar-Levels-in-Steeping-Solution-on-the-Physico-chemical-and-Sensory-Attributes-of-Acid-Lime-(Citrus-aurantifolia-Swingle)-Peel-Candy-Prasad-Patil-139.pdf','',1,'Acid lime peel is a byproduct of processing industry, can serve as a valuable raw material in this study, offering the dual benefits of waste reduction and enhanced value for acid lime fruits. With this background, acid lime peel candy was prepared under nine different treatments comprising the different initial steeping sugar concentrations (40, 50 and 60 °B) with varied shape of the peel (Halves, Quarters and Long slices) and addition of the citric acid (1 %) for all the treatments. At the end all the treatments stabilized at 70 °B sugar concentrations. The peel candy samples were tested for the physical, bio-chemical changes and sensory evaluation on the 9-point hedonic scale. The treatment T7 (Long slices + blanching for 5 minutes + steeping in 40 °B syrup + 1 % citric acid) proved superior in terms of candy recovery, solid gain, acceptable textural properties, instrumental colour values with better bio-chemical properties and organoleptic score in terms of colour, taste, texture and flavour of candied lime peel.','Acid lime peel, Citrus aurantifolia, Peel candy, sugar syrup, Kagzi lime','It was concluded from the present investigation that the citrus peels considered to be the waste from the processing industries can also be efficiently used by converting them into commercially utilized by-products. High sugar concentration imparted good colour, flavour, and texture to C. aurantifolia peel candy. The treatment T7 (long slices) proved superior in terms of recovery, solid gain, acceptable texture, instrumental colour values with better bio-chemical properties and overall acceptability scores in terms of colour, taste, texture and flavour of candied lime peel.','-','Prasad Patil, MD. Jameel Jhalegar, Viresh Mallayya Hiremath, Sateesh Pattepur, Noorulla Haveri, Shripad Pandurang Vishweshwar and Sanganabasav G. Gollagi (2023). Standardization of Peel Shape and Sugar Levels in Steeping Solution on the Physico-chemical and Sensory Attributes of Acid Lime (Citrus aurantifolia Swingle) Peel Candy. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 15(10): 742-748.'),(7769,'168','Estimation of Crop Water Requirement of Kharif Rice Over Ribhoi District of Meghalaya','Evakordor Jyrwa, A.S Nain and Jonali Goswami ','Estimation-of-Crop-Water-Requirement-of-Kharif-Rice-Over-Ribhoi-District-of-Meghalaya-Evakordor-Jyrwa-140.pdf','',1,'In response to increasing global demands on our water resources, our study addresses the need to develop effective strategies for managing and planning irrigated farmland. We focus on accurately estimating crop water requirements using modeling. The distinctive rice-growing region of Meghalaya offers a diverse range of climates, from the heights of hilly terrain to the depths of flooded fields and this diversity creates challenges, especially when the rain is unpredictable. The purpose of this study is to calculate crop water requirements and irrigation requirements for rice crops in the Ri-bhoi district of Meghalaya. Employing the CROPWAT 8.0 model, the study calculated the crop water and irrigation requirements for Kharif rice in Ri-bhoi district. The results show that the total crop water requirement for rice throughout the growing season amounted to 504.4 mm/dec, while the irrigation requirement was 650.2 mm/dec. Because of the low effective rainfall in this region in 2022, irrigation needs for rice crops are high. The reference crop evapotranspiration in the district ranged from 2.29 mm/day to 4.53 mm/day. As predicted by the model, yields will not decrease at any growth stage with maximum rainfall efficiency. In which, the rainfall efficiency was 100% with an effective rainfall of 51mm during the growing season. This research thus offers valuable insights for enhancing water management strategies in agriculture.','CROPWAT model, Rice, Crop water requirements, reference evapotranspiration, net irrigation requirements','This study reveals significant variations in the monthly crop water requirement and irrigation needs of rice in the Ri-bhoi district. During the growing season, rice was found to require 504.4 mm/dec of water, while the irrigation demand stood at 650.2 mm/dec. Because of the low effective rainfall in this region in 2022, irrigation needs for rice crops are high. If the effective rainfall is high, there will be adequate moisture in the soil to meet the crop\'s water needs through efficient water use, which enables irrigation water savings. This district has the main disadvantage of being predominantly dependent on rainfall for irrigation. The possibility of moisture stress on the plant will increase in a district with low effective rainfall and no irrigation system. Understanding the spatiotemporal distribution and dynamics of rice cultivation in the state is crucial for addressing issues related to food demand and water scarcity. Using this model, we can apply the irrigation demands of a specific crop, thereby saving irrigation water, and we can identify the rice crop distribution over a district using GIS. ','-','Evakordor Jyrwa, A.S Nain and Jonali Goswami (2023). Estimation of Crop Water Requirement of Kharif Rice Over Ribhoi District of Meghalaya. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 15(10): 749-754.'),(7770,'168','Physico-Chemical Analysis of Bitter Gourd Dried using Biomass Dryer','Sahil Shiraj Shaikh, Alice Ishwarbhai Kothari, Sumit Kumar, Ishita Auddy, Amar Shankar, Bhaskar Dixit C.S. and Sachin Payyanad ','Physico Chemical-Analysis-of-Bitter-Gourd-Dried-using--Biomass-Dryer-Sumit-Kumar-141.pdf','',1,'Bitter Gourd is a vegetable which grow in huge amount across globe due to its beneficial properties. The fruit, seed, leave, vine and roots of bitter gourd have been used as food and remedy for various types of diseases. Bitter gourd is rich source of Vitamin A, Vitamin C, Total phenolic content, Iron, Amino acid, Carotenoid, Thiamin, Riboflavin, Viscin and Minerals. The presence of these important compounds makes it a good candidate for human consumption. Bitter gourd vegetable contains compounds which may improve insulin sensitivity, lower blood sugar levels, and aid in the regulation of postprandial/intestinal glucose uptake. It is used commonly as a fresh and dried vegetable of Bitter gourd in curries, baked products, pickles, filled dishes and juices. The drying of Bitter guard using biomass dryers can improve the quality and make it shelf-stable till further usage. The dried Bitter guard can be used for longer period of time compare to the fresh Bitter guard with improved quality. The cabinet dried Bitter guard found to have moisture (7.5%), fat (9.16%), ash (6.69%), protein (11.7mg), fiber (10.1 mg), vitamin A (132 mcg), vitamin C (91 mg) and total phenolic content (61µg/g) whereas surface dryer observed to have moisture (6%), fat (9.1%), ash (6%), protein (12.4 mg), fiber (10.3 mg), vitamin A (139.6 mcg), vitamin C (97.3 mg), total phenolic content (68 µg/g) are obtained. Drying pre-treatment resulted in the improved physico-chemical properties of Bitter guard which might be due to prevention in the undesirable physicochemical changes during the drying process and subsequent storage, as well as inhibiting microbiological action. The enormous price changes throughout the harvest and off-season would be mitigated if the bitter gourd is stored properly.','Bitter guard, Drying, Biomass dryer, Drying kinetics, Physico-chemical analysis','The various drying methods such as convective, fluidized bed, solar, and microwave drying are used in the food industry. While hot air drying negatively affects food characteristics, novel methods like biomass dryers offer efficiency and lower energy consumption. The bitter gourds are widely used in curries, baked goods, filled dishes, juices, pickles, or stuffed meat products as fresh and dried vegetables. Additionally, it is used in the creation of many other dishes. Drying characteristics were analyzed based on factors such as moisture content and drying time. In surface dryer 152gm of bitter gourd slice at 60-70° required 240 minutes. Whereas, for cabinet dryer at 1552 gm of bitter gourd slice required 420 minutes. The slice of bitter gourd where subjected to physicochemical analysis and finally, they were packed in low-density polyethylene (LDPE) and stored at ambient temperature. The moisture content in a bitter gourd by cabinet drying and surface drying was found to be 6.75 ± 0.18 % and 7.5 ± 0.32 % respectively. The ash content in a bitter gourd by cabinet drying and surface drying was found to be 6.39 ± 0.15 % and 6.56 ± 0.23 % respectively. The fat content in a bitter gourd by cabinet drying and surface drying was found to be 9.09 ± 0.13 % and 9.41 ± 0.34 % respectively. \r\nThe carbohydrate content in a bitter gourd by cabinet drying and surface drying was found to be 52.64 ± 0.18 % and 54.57 ± 0.50 % respectively. The protein content in a bitter gourd by cabinet drying and surface drying was found to be 12.4 ± 0.18 % and 11.7 ± 0.08 % respectively. The fiber content in a bitter gourd by cabinet drying and surface drying was found to be 10.3 ± 0.8 %and 10.1 ± 0.08 % respectively. The vitamin A content in a bitter gourd by cabinet drying and surface drying was found to be 0.000139 ± 0.0002 % and 0.000132 ± 0.0002 % respectively. The vitamin C content in a bitter gourd by cabinet drying and surface drying was found to be 0.097 ± 0.47 % and 0.091 ± 0.81 % respectively. The total phenolic content in a bitter gourd by cabinet drying and surface drying was found to be 0.068 ± 0.94 % and 0.061 ± 0.81 % respectively.\r\n','-','Sahil Shiraj Shaikh, Alice Ishwarbhai Kothari, Sumit Kumar, Ishita Auddy, Amar Shankar, Bhaskar Dixit C.S. and Sachin Payyanad (2023). Physico-Chemical Analysis of Bitter Gourd Dried using Biomass Dryer. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 15(10): 755-764.'),(7771,'168','Determination of Yield Enhancing Traits in Maize (Zea mays L.) under Water Limited and Normal Irrigated Conditions','K.R.V. Sathya Sheela, S. Lakshmi Narayanan, T. Selvakumar, D. Kavithamani and N. Satheesh Kumar ','Determination-of-Yield-Enhancing-Traitsin-Maize-(Zea-mays-L.)-under-Water-Limited-and-Normal-Irrigated-Conditions-KRV-Sathya-Sheela-142.pdf','',1,'Maize (Zea mays. L) is the most important food crop in the world for food security following rice and wheat. Drought is the most vulnerable sector affected by the rapid climate changes. The yield loss in maize is influenced by the crop stage at which drought occurs and the duration of exposure. In order to select genotypes for advanced stress breeding programs, it is important to screen them for the ability to cope with drought, particularly in rainfed environments. The current need of the drought breeding program is the screening of genotypes for its inherent capacity to with stand drought particularly under rainfed conditions. Most of the area under maize is in rainfed conditions and the identification of best genotype for rainfed conditions will meet out the current requirement. Twenty two maize hybrids were used to study the relationship of the yield associated traits under normal and rainfed conditions. Correlation study was performed among ten traits in the maize hybrids to see if there is any interdependence among the traits. The genotypes were raised in irrigated and rainfed conditions simultaneously. Plant height, cob length, number of rows per cob exhibited positive association with yield at 1% significance level. Anthesis Silking Interval showed negative association with yield at 1% significance level. The present study showed that cob characters viz., cob length, number of rows per cob, number of kernels per row, shelling percentage and early maturing genotypes with low ASI can be given more importance in selection criteria under rainfed conditions.','Correlation, anthesis silking interval, cob length, number of rows per cob, PCA','In maize breeding, knowledge on the relationships among yield components is of the great importance, because it is likely to facilitate breeders to choose the most efficient selection criteria. Selection of productive genotypes under water limited conditions based on grain yield alone has often been considered inefficient and the inter-association of secondary traits of adaptive value increase selection efficiency. Hence the cob characters viz., cob length, number of rows per cob, number of kernels per row, shelling percentage can be given more importance in selection criteria as they are contributing to yield. Under rainfed conditions where the crop faces water limitations, low ASI, reduced number of tassels and stay green trait with delayed senescence will lead to partitioning to early ear growth and achieve maximum yield potential under drought conditions. The results of the study concludes that better performance in water-limited environments will be successful through selection of early vigorous silking, reduced ASI, stay green trait and leaf rolling. This will give us opportunities for selection and faster development of improved hybrids for drought tolerance.','-','K.R.V. Sathya Sheela, S. Lakshmi Narayanan, T. Selvakumar, D. Kavithamani and N. Satheesh Kumar (2023). Determination of Yield Enhancing Traits in Maize (Zea mays L.) under Water Limited and Normal Irrigated Conditions. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 15(10): 765-768.'),(7772,'168','Perfecting Quality Planting Stock through Media and Container Optimization in Indian Sandalwood (Santalum album L.)','Shwetha V.R., Mahadevamurthy M., Raghu H.B., Vijayalakshmi K.P. and Maheshnaik B.L. ','Perfecting Quality Planting Stock through Media and Container Optimization in Indian Sandalwood (Santalum album L.)-Shwetha VR-143.pdf','',1,'This study systematically evaluated various container types and potting media formulations to optimize the production of high-quality sandalwood (Santalum album) planting stock. There is a high demand for quality planting material particularly by private farm lands and also for the specific purposes like timber production where the use of bigger sandal saplings is very much preferred for out planting. In the context of container raised seedling production, potting media is one of the important inputs and is primarily responsible for the healthy seedling production. To stay competitive and to satisfy the environmental concerns of using traditional growing media components such as river sand, potential alternatives were investigated in the present study. Results indicate that a 30 cm × 20 cm poly bag, when combined with a potting media mixture composed of soil, rice husk, and FYM in a 2:1:1 ratio, consistently yielded superior seedling growth. The assessed growth attributes, including collar diameter, shoot length, root length, total height, and dry weight, were significantly enhanced with this specific combination. The benefit-cost ratios (B-C ratios) for production in various containers varied, container C3 demonstrates a B-C ratio of 1.60, indicating a ` 1.60 return for each ` 1 invested. Container C4 shows the highest B-C ratio at 1.61, implying a return of ` 1.61 for every ` 1 spent. Root trainers (C3 and C4) offer economic advantages with well-developed roots and growth uniformity, making them favourable for seedling production. The highest benefit-cost ratio (B-C ratio) of 1.59 is associated with potting media P2, indicating efficient resource use and potential high returns.','Growth attributes, Collar diameter, Planting stock, Potting media, Containers','These findings are not only vital for meeting market demands but are also critical in ensuring the long-term success of sandalwood plantations and the preservation of this iconic species. In conclusion, the findings presented in this study offer valuable insights into the selection of potting media for the production of Santalum album seedlings in nurseries. The benefit-cost ratios (B-C ratios) assessed the cost-effectiveness and potential returns of various potting media, with potting media P2 emerging as the most efficient choice, boasting a high B-C ratio of 1.59. This underscores the economic viability of using this specific potting medium and container. This approach not only proves cost-effective but also offers an environmentally friendly solution by repurposing abundant and sustainable resources, such as rice husk, which is readily available in rice-producing regions. Utilizing local organic waste materials in nursery operations not only reduces costs but also mitigates environmental concerns related to waste disposal and raw material scarcity. The study\'s findings have the potential to inform decision-makers and practitioners in the field, contributing to more sustainable and economically viable sandalwood seedling production practices in humid tropical regions.','-','Shwetha V.R., Mahadevamurthy M., Raghu H.B., Vijayalakshmi K.P. and Maheshnaik B.L. (2023). Perfecting Quality Planting Stock through Media and Container Optimization in Indian Sandalwood (Santalum album L.). Biological Forum – An International Journal, 15(10): 769-777.'),(7773,'168','Antidiabetic activities of leaves extracts of Justicia adhatoda L. (Malabar nut) in rats','Rachana, M. N., Sharanagouda Hiregoudar, Udaykumar Nidoni, Ramappa, K. T., Sushila Nadagouda and Nagaraj Naik','Antidiabetic-activities-of-leaves-extracts-of-Justicia-adhatoda-L.-(Malabar-nut)-in-rats-Rachana-M.-N-144.pdf','',1,'Justicia adhatoda has been used for the treatment of various diseases and disorders. It is a primary medicinal plant for the respiratory tract ailments in the treatment of cough, bronchitis, asthma and symptoms of common cold. The Supercritical fluid extract of Justicia adhatoda in Group V (49.05%) and Group VII (47.95%) higher doses exhibited excellent antidiabetic property in albino mice.','Justicia adhatoda, diabetes mellitus, blood glucose, supercritical fluid extraction, albino mice','The investigation was focused on to screening of antidiabetic activity of Justicia adhatoda leaves (JAL) ethanolic-extract and its fractions (JAL-F). The result of the present study demonstrates the efficiency JAL ethanolic extract and fraction. Ethanolic extract of Justicia adhatoda is lowering the serum glucose level in STZ induced diabetic rat models. The SFE extract of Justicia adhatoda in Group V (49.05%) and Group VII (JBL-F 47.95%) higher doses exhibited excellent antidiabetic property at 3rd week. The Ethanolic extracts of Justicia adhatoda fractions and (JAL-F) treated groups showed better decrease in blood glucose level when compared with control group. Hence Justicia adhatoda extract and fraction are to be claimed as a good antidiabetic natural bioactive compound.','-','Rachana, M. N., Sharanagouda Hiregoudar, Udaykumar Nidoni, Ramappa, K. T., Sushila Nadagouda and Nagaraj Naik (2023). Antidiabetic activities of leaves extracts of Justicia adhatoda L. (Malabar nut) in rats. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 15(10): 778-780.'),(7774,'168','Evaluation of Cognitive Learning in an Academic Webinar in Agriculture','Pradeepkumar T., Binoo P. Bonny, Dicto Jose M., Lokesh S., Divya K. Lekshmanan, Aswini A. and Vivek S.','Evaluation-of-Cognitive-Learning-in-an-Academic-Webinar-in-Agriculture-Binoo-P-Bonny-145.pdf','',1,'The paper mapped the webinar content to evaluate its influence on participants\' progress in cognitive learning on synchronous online platforms that facilitated a multidimensional structural learning process. A quasi-experimental research design was followed in analyzing the transcripts recorded from the three-day academic webinar attended by 630 participants, which was coded into significant themes and the frequency of codes recorded to validate the content coverage using MAXQDA software. The cognitive learning of the participants was calculated as the difference between post- and pre-evaluation test scores. Pre- and post-evaluation knowledge test scores of participants conducted on selected themes showed webinars to be effective in enhancing the knowledge level of participants across age, professional status and gender, with the most significant improvement in students and young professionals related to hybrid breeding correlating the content coverage. It has aided pedagogical characterisation and progress in the effectiveness of online learning environments. Contributes to the metacognition domain of cognitive learning theory in the emerging context of online learning, specifically to the information process theory. Address the research gap on effective planning and design of e-learning content in agricultural education.','Academic webinar, Content analysis, Cognitive learning, tropical vegetables, Knowledge test','Thus, it could be concluded that the study\'s findings contributed to the meta cognition domain of cognitive learning theory in the emerging context of online learning, specifically to the information process theory. This could find application in improving the effectiveness of online learning in synchronous virtual methods like webinars. This could be attributed to webinars\' role in facilitating multidimensional structural learning processes, self-regulatory activities and learner autonomy (Jenkins et al., 2009). As such the results could find application in the pedagogical characterisation and improvements in the effectiveness of online learning environments of higher education in general and agricultural education specifically. These indicated its tremendous potential to be integrated into blended learning programme curricula. However, there is a need to develop criteria for evolving coding indicators that could be used in similar studies involving content analysis. This warranted a more detailed study to identify and analyse the learning effects and the associated pedagogies of synchronous learning environments to find the causes related to the dynamics of cognitive learning. Also, research on the online discussions emerging from these synchronous learning platforms will be helpful in promoting Socratic methods of discussions, as suggested in many reports (Hansen 1988; Yang et al., 2005). This would facilitate guiding and interpret how learning occurred in these virtual innovations of instructional technology that have gained prominence.','-','Pradeepkumar T., Binoo P. Bonny, Dicto Jose M., Lokesh S., Divya K. Lekshmanan, Aswini A. and Vivek S. (2023). Evaluation of Cognitive Learning in an Academic Webinar in Agriculture. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 15(10): 781-789.'),(7775,'168','Influence of Seed Physical Attributes on Nutritional and Culinary Characteristics of Chickpea','Singh S., Maurya C.L., Kumar N. and Singh B. ','Influence-of-Seed-Physical-Attributes-on-Nutritional-and-Culinary-Characteristics-of-Chickpea-Singh-S-146.pdf','',1,'This study delves into the pivotal role of moisture content in assessing seed viability and shelf life, particularly in chickpea seeds. Alterations in moisture levels influence biometric characteristics, affecting mean diameter and sphericity. Lower moisture content in chickpea varieties extends shelf life, preserving nutritional integrity. The research focuses on analysing moisture content across diverse chickpea genotypes, revealing values spanning 6.14% to 9.09%. AVRODHI demonstrates the highest moisture content (9.09%), while KGD-1814 records the lowest (6.14%). All chickpea genotypes can be stored extensively without degradation. Furthermore, the investigation examines seed weight variations, with GNG-2144 standing out with the highest weight of 30.84 grams per 100 seeds. Significant diversity in seed weight among different varieties/genotypes highlights the potential for robust seed selection through breeding trials. Seed volume and density analyses reveal substantial distinctions among genotypes, with GNG-2144 showcasing the highest volume content and JG-1749 exhibiting the highest seed density. Water absorption and volume expansion properties are thoroughly explored, revealing significant variations among chickpea genotypes. Swelling capacity and index evaluations provide insights into volume expansion potential, highlighting notable variation across genotypes. The comprehensive dataset contributes to a deeper understanding of chickpea genotype attributes, facilitating informed decisions in processing and utilization. The research shows and suggest breeder to select the best variety for biofortification process to increase quality in chickpea seeds. ','Moisture content, Seed volume, Seed density, Water expansion and volume expansion','In conclusion, this study underscores moisture content\'s crucial role in chickpea seed viability and shelf life, affecting biometric traits. Lower moisture content extends shelf life and preserves nutrients. Diverse chickpea genotypes exhibit moisture content variation impacting seed quality. Variations in seed weight, with GNG-2144 as the heaviest, highlight breeding potential. Seed volume and density analyses reveal diversity, and water absorption traits impact processing. Swelling capacity insights illuminate volume expansion potential. Hydration capacity findings, notably GNG-2144 high value, offer valuable processing insights. Overall, this study enriches understanding of chickpea genotype traits for enhanced processing, utilization, and breeding strategies.','-','Singh S., Maurya C.L., Kumar N. and Singh B. (2023). Influence of Seed Physical Attributes on Nutritional and Culinary Characteristics of Chickpea. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 15(10): 790-796.'),(7776,'168','Impact of Sensor-based Drip Irrigation System on Soil Temperature, Weed Density and Yield of Ridge Gourd (Luffa acutangula L.)','Anand Gouda, Nemichandrappa M., Halidoddi R.R., Babu M.B., Mallikarjunreddy and Ramesh G. ','Impact-of-Sensor-based-Drip-Irrigation-System-on-Soil-Temperature,-Weed-Density-and-Yield-of-Ridge-Gourd-(Luffa-acutangula-L.)-Gouda-A-147.pdf','',1,'Ridge gourd was the subject of a field experiment at the Experimental Research Plot Soil and Water Engineering, CAE, Raichur, during the Rabi seasons of 2021-22 and 2022-23. The purpose of the research was to compare the performance of mulched and non-mulched circumstances while evaluating the effectiveness of an irrigation system based on sensors and evapotranspiration at various irrigation levels. The soil temperatures at depths of 3, 10, and 20 cm were consistently higher in the treatments conducted under mulched conditions. This was seen at three different time points: 8:00 AM, 1:00 PM, and 5:00 PM. The measurements were taken at 30, 60, and 90 days after treatment (DAT) of the crop. The soil temperature exhibited an increase of about 1.42, 1.42, and 1.34ºC when compared to the irrigation system in the absence of mulching, at soil depths of 3, 10, and 20 cm respectively. Positive results from the application of sensor-based irrigation at 100% field capacity under mulching have resulted in a noticeable increase in crop output of roughly 9.40%. Additionally, this strategy has significantly reduced the need for irrigation water. The highest benefit cost ratio was under surface drip irrigation at 100% ET under mulched condition, i.e., 1.90. The sensor-based drip irrigation system under mulched is an economically viable option to be recommended among farmers in arid and semi-arid climate. Although initial setup costs may be higher, the long-term benefits of reduced water usage, increased yields and minimized labour expenses result in substantial cost savings for farmers. ','Mulch, Irrigation, Sensor, Soil temperature, Yield and B.C ratio','The present investigated the impact of sensor-based irrigation system under mulched on ridge gourd. The main aim of this study was to analyze the water saving potential, crop yield improvement and overall sustainability of this integrated approach.\r\nDifferent irrigation scenarios under mulched and non-mulched conditions significantly influenced the diurnal variation in soil temperature at different soil depths during different crop growth stages. The treatments under mulched condition maintained higher soil temperatures at 3, 10 and 20 cm soil depths at 8:00 AM, 1:00 PM and 5:00 PM, at 30, 60 and 90 DAT of the crop. The soil temperature was about 1.42, 1.42 and 1.34 ºC higher than the irrigation under non-mulched condition at 3, 10 and 20 cm soil depths. At 1:00 PM, the soil at 3, 10 and 20 cm depths under irrigation under mulched treatments (maintained higher temperature than the irrigation under non-mulched condition by 1.26, 1.24 and 1.24 ºC, respectively. At 5:00 PM, the increase in temperature under irrigation under mulched treatments were 1.29, 1.17 and 1.15 ºC than the irrigation under non-mulched condition at 3, 10 and 20 cm soil depths, respectively. Maximum weeds were found in irrigation at 100% ET under non-mulched treatment compared to the irrigation at 80% FC under mulched treatments. Lower irrigation throughout the crop period with polyethylene mulch, controlled the weed population, and saved the inter cultivation cost. The weed per metre square in under non-mulched plots, was found to be higher throughout the crop period.\r\nCrop yield per hectare was significantly higher in the treatment pertaining to irrigation at 100% FC under mulched condition on pooled basis (45.49 kg ha-1), followed by treatment under irrigation at 100% ET under mulched condition (T5) i.e., 41.21 kg ha-1. In contrast, the treatment involving irrigation at 80% FC under non-mulched condition recorded significantly lower crop yield per hectare on pooled basis (23.52 kg ha-1). The growth yield parameters of the ridge gourd recorded highest in treatment pertaining to irrigation at 100% FC under mulched condition (T1), i.e., fruit length of 53.07 cm, fruit girth of 17.32 cm, fruit weight of 348.20 g and fruit yield per plant of 6.25 kg on pooled basis.\r\nHighest net present worth of ` 29,88,351 ha-1 was observed under sensor based drip irrigation at 100% FC under mulched condition. The net present worth from sensor based drip irrigation at 100% FC and surface drip irrigation at 100% ET under mulched condition were 17.54 and 10.59% higher than the sensor based drip irrigation at 80% FC under non-mulched condition. The surface drip irrigation system at 100% evapotranspiration (ET) in mulched conditions yielded the greatest benefit-cost ratio, i.e., 1.90. The treatment of surface drip irrigation at 100% ET under mulched condition resulted in observed payback times of 0.47 years, indicating a very short time frame for recouping the initial investment. The implementation of a sensor-based drip irrigation system, along with mulching, is a financially feasible solution that may be offered to farmers operating in arid and semi-arid regions. Despite the higher initial setup costs, farmers may achieve significant cost savings in the long run due to lower water consumption, better yields, and minimised labour requirements.\r\n','-','Anand Gouda, Nemichandrappa M., Halidoddi R.R., Babu M.B., Mallikarjunreddy and Ramesh G. (2023). Impact of Sensor-based Drip Irrigation System on Soil Temperature, Weed Density and Yield of Ridge Gourd (Luffa acutangula L.). Biological Forum – An International Journal, 15(10): 797-806.'),(7777,'168','Incidence of Pink Bollworm Pectinophora gossypiella on different Bt cotton Hybrids under different Sowing Regimes','Honnayya, Sreenivas A.G., Hemadri T., Kisan B., Harischandra Nayak and Saroja N. ','Incidence-of-Pink-Bollworm-Pectinophora-gossypiella-on-different-Bt-cotton-Hybrids-under-different-Sowing-Regimes-Honnayya-148.pdf','',1,'The incidence of pink bollworm (Pectinophora gossypiella) is of significant importance in the context of agriculture, particularly in cotton-growing regions around the world. Pink bollworm is a destructive pest that primarily affects cotton crops, and its presence can have far-reaching consequences for both farmers and the cotton industry. Different sowing regimes, which include variations in the timing can have a significant impact on cotton yield and the prevalence of pests. Likewise, present investigation was conducted at the Centre for agro-climatic Studies, MARS, UAS Raichur, during Kharif-2019. Eight different Bt cotton hybrids were selected from the locally available market. They were used to estimate pink bollworm damage with two other dates of sowings in factorial randomized block design. The results revealed that among the different Bt cotton hybrids, the Bindaas-7213 hybrid recorded the lowest rosette flowers, green boll damage and locule damage (6.62, 21.62 and 18.72 %, respectively) were recorded in both regular and late sowing regimes. The lowest pink bollworm infestation at harvest was observed in normal sowing (39.80 GOBs/plant), with the highest seed cotton yield (16.99 q/ha) recorded in the Bindaas-7213 Bt hybrid. In contrast, the minimum seed cotton yield (10.23 q/ha) was recorded in the PCH-5678 Bt hybrid. The maximum pink bollworm infestation was noticed in the late sowing regime compared to the regular sowing regime. ','Agro-climate, factorial, hybrids pink bollworm and regime','The pink bollworm infestation was found to be lowest in Bindaas-7213 Bt cotton hybrid followed by Yuva-7215, whereas a maximum infestation in terms of rosette flowers, locule damage, green boll damage and bad opened bolls was found in PCH-5678 and ACH-1155 Bt hybrids at harvest was observed in late sown crop than normal sown crop.','-','Honnayya, Sreenivas A.G., Hemadri T., Kisan B., Harischandra Nayak and Saroja N. (2023). Incidence of Pink Bollworm Pectinophora gossypiella on different Bt cotton Hybrids under different Sowing Regimes. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 15(10): 807-812.'),(7778,'168','TRIA-mediated Physio-morphological and Biochemical Growth Regulation in Maize (Zea mays L.) under Moisture Deficit Stress','Shil S., Rambabu B., Kishore P.S. and Dewanjee S.','TRIA-mediated-Physio-morphological-and-Biochemical-Growth-Regulation-in-Maize-(Zea-mays-L.)-under-Moisture-Deficit-Stress-Sanjoy-Shil-149.pdf','',1,'Triacontanol [CH3(CH2)28CH2OH] a novel plant growth regulator found in epicuticular waxes of several plants. Tricontanol (TRIA)-mediated augment in maize dry matter production as influenced by the inter-relationship between primary and secondary metabolism as well as enhanced biosynthesis of secondary metabolites. Moreover, TRIA also plays an imperative role in alleviating the moisture stress-accrued alterations in maize crops via modulating the activation of the stress tolerance mechanisms. Triacontanol (TRIA) when applied to maize plants as a foliar spray results a noteworthy augment in physio-biochemical growth and also induce drought tolerance. To explore such growth responses as well as alleviation of moisture stress in maize mediated by TRIA an exogenous application of TRIA in different concentration viz., T1 (1500ppm), T2 (2000ppm) and T3 (2500ppm) have been done at 30DAS, 60DAS (initiation of tasseling stage) and 90DAS under normal watering (Control that set at 100% of the field capacity) and watering at 60% field capacity (moderate drought stress). Among the three treatments, T3 exhibited more beneficial effect to regulate the physio-biochemical growth in maize and also mitigate the drought stress followed by T2. However, T1 also have exhibited slight beneficial effect to mediate growth regulation as well as to improve the drought tolerance in maize.\r\nOn an overall observation, it has been concluded that TRIA can modulate physio-biochemical growth as well as improves the level of drought tolerance in maize. Maize production under drought stress is a major challenge to the grower and must require some proper management so that productivity of this crop may not be compensated under moisture deficit stress. Thus, it is recommended that TRIA must be applied for modulating maize growth under water stress and yield as well as the productivity of maize may be enhanced by the application of TRIA at an appropriate concentration and growth stages of the crop. \r\n','Triacontanol (TRIA), morphological & physio -biochemical attributes, maize and moisture stress','Based on the overall experiment conducted, results indicated that different growth parameters as well as yield attributing characters, and physio-biochemical growth regulation mediated by exogenous TRIA application in leaves of maize were significantly and positively correlated with each other. Meanwhile, the positive and highly significant relationship between various attributes was also noticed in case of foliar spray of TRIA at different levels both under normal irrigation and moderate stress conditions. \r\nTreatment by TRIA at T3 (2500ppm) was better whereas T1 (1500ppm) followed by T2 (2000ppm) also played little bit beneficial role in growth modulation in maize and thus induce drought tolerance. Such growth regulator at various levels may be attributed to decrease chlorophyll degradation and increased chlorophyll biosynthesis; increase membrane stability and relative water content and stimulates the growth of the plant by decreasing CO2 inhibition that in turn increases CO2 assimilation and enhance photosynthesis. On the whole, it can be concluded that various levels of TRIA played a significant and positive relationship on the growth regulation of maize under moisture stress condition.\r\n','-','Shil S., Rambabu B., Kishore P.S. and Dewanjee S. (2023). TRIA-mediated Physio-morphological and Biochemical Growth Regulation in Maize (Zea mays L.) under Moisture Deficit Stress. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 15(10): 813-819.'),(7779,'168','Evaluation of Isabgol Genotypes for Source of Resistance against Fusarium oxysporum Schlecht. under Field Condition','Shaik Munnysha, R.N. Bunker, Amit Dadheech, Smriti Akodiya and Mamta Beniwal ','Evaluation-of-Isabgol-Genotypes-for-Source-of-Resistance-against-Fusarium-oxysporum-Schlecht.-under-Field-Condition-Shaik-Munnysha-150.pdf','',1,'An experiment was laid out in Randomized Block Design with three replication to screen twenty five genotypes under sick plot condition. The screening of new resistance to isabgol genotypes against this disease is an alternative approach to avoid indiscriminate use of pesticides. Out of twenty-five genotypes screened, one genotype ‘UI 25’ was resistant, while eight genotypes UI-11, UI-17, UI-24, UI-62, UI-121, UI-125, HI-2, UI-124 were moderately resistant. However, GI 2 showed susceptible reaction and rest fifteen genotypes were found moderately susceptible against wilt of Isabgol.','Fusarium oxysporum, isabgol, pesticides, resistance, wilt disease','In the current study, an effort was made to screen twenty five different genotypes of isabgol for source of resistance against wilt under sick plot condition. Out of twenty five genotypes screened, one genotype was resistant and eight genotypes were moderately resistant. However, genotype GI 2 showed susceptible reaction and rest fifteen genotypes were found moderately susceptible reaction against wilt disease. For effective disease management, continuous screening of genotypes is advised, focusing on potential breakdown of resistance source of major races in isabgol growing regions.','-','Shaik Munnysha, R.N. Bunker, Amit Dadheech, Smriti Akodiya and Mamta Beniwal (2023). Evaluation of Isabgol Genotypes for Source of Resistance against Fusarium oxysporum Schlecht. under Field Condition. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 15(10): 820-824.'),(7780,'168','Evaluation of Antibacterial and Antioxidant Properties of Soy Whey based Beverages','Malashree L., Pavithra B.R., Athifa Irfana S. and Ramachandra B.','Evaluation-of-Antibacterial-and-Antioxidant-Properties-of-Soy-Whey-based-Beverages-Malashree-L-151.pdf','',1,'The present study was aimed to utilization of soy whey obtained from tofu using Lactobacillus acidophilus, Lactobacillus bulgaricus, Lactococcus lactis cultures. As the soy is rich in isoflavones which are bioactive compounds, soy whey with fermentation would result in a functional drink. The soy whey beverages added with different levels of sugar at 4, 5, and 6%. At the 6% sugar level, the soy whey beverage prepared was found to be best with respect to sensory attributes. In case of antibacterial activity of soy whey and its beverages, among the tested organisms used soy whey beverage showed inhibitory zone 17 sq.mm, 18 sq.mm, and 4 sq.mm against E. coli, Salmonella sp. and Staphylococcus aureus respectively. Supernatant of soy whey beverage showed inhibitory zone18 sq.mm, 15 sq.mm and 4 sq.mm against E. coli, Salmonella sp. and Staphylococcus aureus respectively. CFE of soy whey beverage showed inhibitory zone 22 sq.mm, 19 sq.mm and 10sq.mm against E. coli, Salmonella sp. and Staphylococcus aureus respectively. The antioxidant activity (% DPPH) values for the soy whey, soy whey beverage and CFE of soy whey beverage were 63.87, 65.59, and 66.02% respectively. The optimized soy whey beverage was stored at refrigeration temperature (7 ± 10C). The control cow milk whey beverage remained in an acceptable condition with the pH 6 and acidity 1.2% of lactic acid while coliform and yeasts and molds were nil at the end of 9th day. In case of the soy whey beverage, it remained in acceptable condition with the pH 5.5 and acidity of 0.27% of lactic acid while Coliform and yeasts and molds were nil at the end of 6th day. The prepared soy whey beverage is a highly nutritious and functional drink for the consumers.','Soy whey, lactic cultures, soy whey beverages, antibacterial property, antioxidant property','Soy Whey is a by-product obtained during the manufacture of tofu which for years was thought to be insignificant and was either used as an animal feed or it was disposed of as waste thus building the BOD content of the dairy sewage. The soy whey obtained has nutritional, therapeutic and antioxidant properties. Soy Whey is a genuine thirst quencher, unlike most soft drinks. Utilization of soy whey in the form of beverage has been attempted in the present study. The study was carried out to analyze sensory, chemical, microbial, antimicrobial and antioxidant activity of soy whey beverage in order to evaluate the keeping quality and storage study of optimized beverage. The soy whey samples produced inhibitory zone formation around the well and was considered as having antibacterial activity against certain pathogens. The antioxidant activity of the soy whey fractions was found to be more than 60 per cent. The present study reveals that the soy-based food product utilizing whey could be considered for the consumer as a functional drink.','-','Malashree L., Pavithra B.R., Athifa Irfana S. and Ramachandra B. (2023). Evaluation of Antibacterial and Antioxidant Properties of Soy Whey based Beverages. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 15(10): 825-831.'),(7781,'168','Understanding Potential Impact of Green Manuring on Crop and Soil: A Comprehensive Review','Neelendra Singh Verma, Deepika Yadav, Monika Chouhan, Charu Bhagat and Priya Kochale ','Understanding-Potential-Impact-of-Green-Manuring-on-Crop-and-Soil-A-Comprehensive-Review-Deepika-Yadav-152.pdf','',1,'Green manuring plays a pivotal role in sustainable agricultural systems by optimizing crop yields and improving the livelihoods of farming communities. Various studies have emphasized the positive impact of green manuring in enhancing the soil organic matter, soil\'s structure, fertility, and nutrient content, microbial biomass, water holding capacity and balancing the soil\'s carbon-to-nitrogen (C:N) ratio. The incorporation of green manure crops also enhances fertilizer use efficiency. The growing challenges in agriculture, such as climate change, degrading soil fertility, extreme weather events, and environmental pollution resulting from the excessive use of chemical fertilizers, Hence, the integrated application of both green manuring and fertilizers represents the optimal combination for achieving higher yields. Many farmers are incorporating green manuring into their practices. This is done to mitigate soil erosion, enhance soil structure, Suppress Weeds growth, and, most significantly, boost soil fertility. However, the inclusion of green manure crops in the existing cropping system does come with certain challenges, including issues such as insufficient availability of high-quality seeds of desired species to the farmers, managing performance variability in green manure crops, and addressing challenges related to their establishment and incorporation. The biggest challenges farmers face while doing green manuring is choosing the right green manure crop with respect to the succeeding crop along with its adaptability to their particular climate. The aim of this article is to provide a comprehensive overview of recent advancements in green manuring practices, considering both the potential advantages and limitations of this approach in annual crop production and the maintenance of soil health and fertility.','Green Manuring, NPK content, Soil fertility, Biomass, Limitations, Profitability, Future Prospects','Green manuring crops play a crucial role in enhancing soil fertility and overall plant and soil health. The significance of this soil improvement practice has been on the rise in recent years. As the cost of inorganic fertilizers continues to rise and their imbalanced use leads to reduced soil fertility, the adoption of green manuring has become an essential practice for enhancing soil fertility and ensuring sustainable crop production. Green manuring helps conserve soil moisture and improves the soil\'s ability to retain water by enhancing its physico-chemical properties and increasing soil organic matter, leading to enhanced water use efficiency (WUE). Green manuring not only enhances soil quality but also leguminous green manure crops play a crucial role in nitrogen fixation, thereby increasing fertilizer use efficiency and facilitating integrated nutrient management. Furthermore, it aids in the control of pest insects, diseases, and weeds in subsequent crops. It may be concluded that green manuring stands as one of several viable alternatives to attain the desired ecological and agronomic sustainability, ultimately contributing to increased agricultural yields.','-','Neelendra Singh Verma, Deepika Yadav, Monika Chouhan, Charu Bhagat and Priya Kochale (2023). Understanding Potential Impact of Green Manuring on Crop and Soil: A Comprehensive Review. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 15(10): 832-839.'),(7782,'168','Evaluation of Avoidable Yield Losses Inflicted by Cucumber moth (Diaphania indica) in Bitter gourd','Sunidhi Pilania, Surender Singh Yadav, Krishna Rolania and Sunita Yadav','Evaluation-of-Avoidable-Yield-Losses-Inflicted-by-Cucumber-moth-(Diaphania-indica)-in-Bitter-gourd-Sunidhi-Pilania-153.pdf','',1,'The cucumber moth, Diaphania indica, a recognized and significant pest in Africa and Asia, has demonstrated an increasingly detrimental impact on bitter gourd cultivation in recent years. Crop loss assessment is critical in developing comprehensive pest management programs, allowing for optimal resource allocation depending on the pest\'s relative impact. In this regard, a recent study was conducted to estimate the avoidable yield losses caused by D. indica infestation in the \'Pusa Do Mausami\' bitter gourd variety. The investigation was conducted at Experimental Area, Department of Entomology, Chaudhary Charan Singh Haryana Agricultural University, Hisar during Kharif 2019. The results demonstrated substantial differences in the yields of treated (Malathion 50% EC @ 1ml/l) and untreated plots. The average yield of bitter gourd in untreated plots was 1.41 times lower, measuring 54.93 q/ha, in comparison to the treated plots, which yielded 77.36 q/ha. As a result, the computed avoidable yield loss attributed to D. indica infestation in bitter gourd was determined to be 29.04 per cent.','Diaphania indica, avoidable yield losses, bitter gourd, malathion','The present study revealed a significant yield difference between treated (Malathion application) and untreated plots. The untreated plots yielded 1.41 times less bitter gourd, with an average of 54.93 quintals per hectare, compared to 77.36 quintals per hectare in the treated plots, showing a significant difference of 22.43 quintals per hectare. The avoidable yield loss due to D. indica was calculated at 29.04 per cent, highlighting the economic impact of this pest on bitter gourd crops. ','-','Sunidhi Pilania, Surender Singh Yadav, Krishna Rolania and Sunita Yadav (2023). Evaluation of avoidable yield losses inflicted by cucumber moth (Diaphania indica) in bitter gourd. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 15(10): 840-843.'),(7783,'168','Yield Attributes and Yield Potential of Potato varieties (Solanum tuberosum L.) and Soil Health under Peach-based Agroforestry System in Northern Hills Zone of Chhattisgarh','Dayanand Sai Painkra, Pratap Toppo, Pratap Singh Rathiya, Lalji Singh and Manish Kumar Mankur ','Yield-Attributes-and-Yield-Potential-of-Potato-varieties-(Solanum-tuberosum-L.)-and-Soil-Health-under-Peach-based-Agroforestry-System-in-Northern-Hills-Zone-of-Chhattisgarh-Dayanand-Sai-Painkra-154.pdf','',1,'The study was conducted at the Potato and Temperate Fruit Research Station, Mainpat, Chhattisgarh, aiming to study the “Yield attributes and yield potential of potato varieties (Solanum tuberosum L.) and soil health under peach-based agroforestry system in northern hills zone of Chhattisgarh”. The experiment was carried out in Factorial RBD design with three replications having ten treatment combinations with two production viz., Sole potato and Peach + potato system assigned in five crop varieties viz., Kufri Sinduri, Kufri Lalit, Kufri Arun, Lady Rosseta, and Kufri Khyati, the experiment was set up. Plots were 5×5m, with row and plant distances at 60cm and 20cm respectively. A fertilizer application of 180:120:120 NPK kg ha-1 was used. Significant differences were observed in yield attributes, including number of tubers per plant, tuberization efficiency, fresh weight of tuber plant, marketable tuber yield, unmarketable tuber yield, and total tuber yield, influenced by both production systems and crop varieties. Peach-based agroforestry demonstrated better yield attributes compared to sole potato cultivation. The Peach + potato agroforestry system resulted in significantly higher total tuber yield (22.88 t ha-1) compared to the Sole potato system (18.04 t ha-1). The complementary interactions between peach trees and potatoes likely improved microclimatic conditions and resource utilization, enhancing potato yield in the agroforestry system. The study navigated challenges in crop coexistence, showcasing the Peach + potato agroforestry system\'s superior yield attributes, indicating improved resource utilization and microclimatic conditions for sustainable productivity.','Peach + potato, Yield, Kufri Sinduri, Kufri Lalit, Kufri Arun, Lady Rosseta, and Kufri Khyati','The peach-potato agroforestry system yielded significantly more tubers per plant, higher tuberization efficiency, and heavier tuber fresh weight compared to the sole potato cropping system. This indicates that the agroforestry system created a more favorable environment for potato tuber growth and development. The potato variety Kufri Sinduri performed the best, producing the highest number of tubers per plant, tuberization efficiency, tuber fresh weight, and marketable tuber yield. Variety Lady Rosseta performed the worst based on these yield attributes. Both the cropping system and potato variety significantly impacted all yield attributes and yields. The peach-potato agroforestry system resulted in significantly higher marketable tuber yield, total tuber yield, and unfortunately also higher unmarketable tuber yield compared to sole potato cropping.','-','Dayanand Sai Painkra, Pratap Toppo, Pratap Singh Rathiya, Lalji Singh and Manish Kumar Mankur (2023). Yield Attributes and Yield Potential of Potato varieties (Solanum tuberosum L.) and Soil Health under Peach-based Agroforestry System in Northern Hills Zone of Chhattisgarh. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 15(10): 844-849.'),(7784,'168','Efficiency of Para-pheromones in Attracting true Infesting Fruit Flies \r\n(Diptera: Tephritidae) in Cucurbits\r\n','Kishor Pujar, Priyanka, T. Elaiyabharathi and Archana B.R. ','Efficiency-of-Para-pheromones-in-Attracting-true-Infesting-Fruit-Flies--Kishor-Pujar-155.pdf','',1,'Survey was conducted in Coimbatore (11°14\' 60.00\" N; 77°18\' 60.00\"E) and Dharmapuri (40° 26.767\' N; 79° 58.933\' W) districts of Tamil Nadu, India, during June 2017 to May 2018, to determine efficiency of methyl eugenol and cue lure in attracting fruit flies in cucurbits mainly ridge gourd, bitter gourd and snake gourd. The present study emphasising to know the peak incidence and period to implement the management practices. In Coimbatore, methyl eugenol attracted males of B. dorsalis and B. correcta to an extent of 20.92 to 23.07 flies/trap/week and 4.73 to 6.13 /trap/week respectively. Highest population for B. dorsalis (23.07 flies/trap/week) and B. correcta (6.13 flies/trap/week). In Dharmapuri district, the mean catches of B. dorsalis attracted to methyl eugenol fluctuated between 20.46 to 20.94 flies/trap/week and for B. correcta it was 6.67 to 7.01 flies/trap/week. Cue lure trap catches of Zeugodacus cucurbitae ranged from 5.78 to 8.53 flies/trap/week in snake gourd and 5.46 to 5.78 flies/trap/week in bitter gourd in Coimbatore and Dharmapuri, respectively. The population of Z. cucurbitae was observed throughout the year and reached peak during 36th standard week (29 flies/trap/week) at Coimbatore in snake gourd and only one fly/trap/week was recorded in the 49th standard week in bitter gourd. In Dharmapuri, the highest population was observed in 36th standard week (21 flies/trap/week) in snake gourd and only one fly was collected per during 52nd standard week in snake gourd. The results from the present study indicated that Z. cucurbitae trap catches varied from crop to crop and region to region where the maximum fly catch was observed during cooler months (September and October) at Coimbatore and in Dharmapuri. The results insists to take a management practices before insect reaches the peak.','Methyl eugenol, cue lure, Zeugodacus cucurbitae, Dacus ciliatus, Bactrocera dorsalis and B. correcta','The results of the present study showed the efficiency of cue lure in attracting the Z. cucurbitae which is the true infesting fruit fly and also revealed that methyl eugenol is not suitable for the cucurbit ecosystem. Based on the observations on the emergence of D. ciliatus, it was clear that, this species is unattractive for any of the lure and also can be a havoc for the cucurbit ecosystem. Based on the seasonal incidence pattern, the peak time of Z. cucurbitae incidence was understood and the management practices against this pest can be implemented before it cause drastic damage.','-','Kishor Pujar, Priyanka, T. Elaiyabharathi and Archana B.R. (2023). Efficiency of Para-pheromones in Attracting true Infesting Fruit Flies (Diptera: Tephritidae) in Cucurbits. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 15(10): 851-854.'),(7785,'168','Quality Parameters of Potato varieties (Solanum tuberosum L.) and Soil Health under Peach-based Agroforestry System in Northern Hills Zone of Chhattisgarh','Dayanand Sai Painkra, Pratap Toppo, Pratap Singh Rathiya, Lalji Singh and Vinay Kumar Samadhiya ','Quality-Parameters-of-Potato-varieties-(Solanum-tuberosum-L.)-and-Soil-Health-under-Peach-based-Agroforestry-System-in-Northern-Hills-Zone-of-Chhattisgarh-Dayanand Sai Painkra-156.pdf','',1,'The study evaluates the “Quality parameters of potato varieties (Solanum tuberosum L.) and soil health under peach-based agroforestry system in northern hills zone of Chhattisgarh”. The investigation was conducted during the 2021-22 and 2022-23 rabi seasons at the Potato and Temperate Fruit Research Station in Mainpat. Two production systems were examined: S1 involved sole potato cultivation, while S2 involved peach intercropped with potato. Five potato varieties were used: Kufri Sinduri (V1), Kufri Lalit (V2), Kufri Arun (V3), Lady Rosseta (V4), and Kufri Khyati (V5). Results indicated that the Peach + potato system (S2) consistently exhibited higher dry matter, starch, carbohydrate, and protein content compared to the Sole potato system (S1) during the two-year investigation. Kufri Sinduri (V1) had the highest dry matter and starch content among the potato varieties, while Lady Rosseta (V4) had the lowest. The interaction effect of production system and crop varieties showed varying significance levels across the attributes. The agroforestry system, with shade from peach trees, proved more suitable for certain varieties, particularly S2V1, resulting in higher dry matter, starch, carbohydrate, and protein content. The study navigated challenges in peach-potato equilibrium, showcasing the Peach + potato agroforestry system\'s superior impact on potato quality, emphasizing its potential for targeted crop enhancement.','Peach + potato, Quality, Kufri Sinduri, Kufri Lalit, Kufri Arun, Lady Rosseta, and Kufri Khyati','In conclusion, the investigation demonstrated that the Peach + potato agroforestry system (S2) showed superior attributes compared to the Sole potato system (S1) in terms of dry matter, starch, carbohydrate, and protein content. Kufri Sinduri (V1) exhibited the highest nutritional content among the potato varieties, while Lady Rosseta (V4) had the lowest. The agroforestry system, with partial shade from peach trees, favored the accumulation of starch, carbohydrate, and protein, enhancing potato quality. These findings support the adoption of agroforestry practices to improve crop attributes and highlight the importance of selecting suitable potato varieties for such systems. The study contributes to sustainable farming practices and aligns with previous research, benefiting farmers and policymakers in optimizing potato production in agroforestry system. ','-','Dayanand Sai Painkra, Pratap Toppo, Pratap Singh Rathiya, Lalji Singh and Vinay Kumar Samadhiya (2023). Quality Parameters of Potato varieties (Solanum tuberosum L.) and Soil Health under Peach-based Agroforestry System in Northern Hills Zone of Chhattisgarh. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 15(10): 855-859.'),(7786,'146','Impact of Different Growth Regulators and Micronutrients on Flowering and Yield Attributing Parameters of Tomato (Solanum lycopersicum L.) cv. Kalinga Tomato-121','Himasweta Nayak, Sunil Kumar Dash, Gouri Shankar Sahu, Pradyumna Tripathy, Simanta Mohanty and Swarnalata Das','Impact-of-Different-Growth-Regulators-and-Micronutrients-on-Flowering-and-Yield-Attributing-Parameters-of-Tomato-(Solanum-lycopersicum-L.)-cv.-Kalinga-Tomato-121-Himasweta-Nayak-248.pdf','',1,'Tomato is one of the widely consumed vegetable all over the world and increased production is an essential prerequisite for its economic success. Growth regulators and micronutrients have superior results in many vegetables. For the increased production of tomato it is essential to know the application method and proper dose of growth regulators and micronutrients; to learn the proper techniques the following study was executed. The current study was carried out during 2019 rabi season at the Department of Vegetable Science, Odisha University of Agriculture and Technology (OUAT), Bhubaneswar, to determine the impact of plant growth regulators and micronutrients on flowering and yield attributing parameters of tomato cultivar ‘Kalinga tomato-121’. The experiment was laid out in Randomized Block Design having twelve treatments and three replications. Treatments consist of different plant growth regulators and micronutrients i.e. T1: Borax @ 0.2%, T2: Zinc sulphate @ 0.5%, T3: Micronutrient mixture @ 0.5% (Multiplex Multimax), T4: NAA 50 ppm, T5: NAA 50 ppm + Borax @ 0.2%, T6: NAA 50 ppm + Zinc sulphate @ 0.5%, T7: NAA 50 ppm + Micronutrient mixture @ 0.5% (Multiplex Multimax), T8: GA3 50 ppm, T9: GA3 50 ppm + Borax @ 0.2%, T10: GA3 50 ppm + Zinc sulphate @ 0.5%, T11: GA3 50 ppm + Micronutrient mixture @ 0.5% (Multiplex Multimax), T12: Control (without growth regulators and chemicals). According to the observations recorded, the minimum days taken for 1st flower initiation (24.16 days), number of flowers per cluster (7.75), number of flowers per plant (75.18), number of seeds per fruit (277.89), polar diameter (4.77 cm) and equatorial diameter (6.33 cm) were found in treatment T11- GA3 50 ppm + Micronutrient mixture @ 0.5% (Multiplex Multimax) and the minimum for all the parameters were found in control. Based on the results of the experiment it can be concluded that use of GA3 50 ppm + Micronutrient mixture @ 0.5% (Multiplex Multimax) is best for increase tomato production and productivity during rabi season in Odisha condition.','Tomato, Growth regulators, Micronutrients, NAA, GA3, Borax, Zinc sulphate','On the basis of obtained results, it can be concluded that GA3 50 ppm + Micronutrient mixture @ 0.5% (Multiplex Multimax) considerably influenced the flowering and yield attributing parameters of tomato. Among the various treatment combinations of plant growth regulators and micronutrients applied on plants, because the tomato plants sprayed with GA3 50 ppm + Micronutrient mixture @ 0.5% (Multiplex Multimax) exhibited most positive result in all the parameters relating to days to 1st flower initiation, number of flowers per cluster, number of flowers per plant, number of seeds per fruit, polar diameter and equatorial diameter. From the above experiment it can be concluded that use of GA3 50 ppm + Micronutrient mixture @ 0.5% (Multiplex Multimax) is best for increase tomato production during rabi season in Odisha condition by increasing qualitative, vegetative and procreative growth & reducing flower/fruit drops. It can ultimately led to increased growth of plant which helps farmers to increase their profit. ','-','Himasweta Nayak, Sunil Kumar Dash, Gouri Shankar Sahu, Pradyumna Tripathy, Simanta Mohanty and Swarnalata Das (2022). Impact of Different Growth Regulators and Micronutrients on Flowering and Yield Attributing Parameters of Tomato (Solanum lycopersicum L.) cv. Kalinga Tomato-121. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 14(4): 1389-1392.'),(7787,'168','Phenotypic screening and Single marker analysis for salinity resistance in rice (Oryza sativa L.) ','Kylash, K.S., Shiva Prasad, G., Vanisri, S and Saida Naik, D. ','Phenotypic-screening-and-Single-marker-analysis-for-salinity-resistance-in-rice-(Oryza-sativa-L.)--K-Sai-Kylash-157.pdf','',1,'This study focuses on the identification of marker-trait associations for salinity tolerance in rice, a critical factor in abiotic stress breeding. The research employed both in vitro and field screening techniques to assess 36 test entries for their responses to salinity stress. Leveraging 15 SSR markers linked to the Saltol QTL on chromosome 1, this study identified eight markers with distinctive banding patterns between resistant and susceptible rice varieties, further used to establish marker-trait associations. Single-factor ANOVA and regression-based analyses were conducted, resulting in the identification of nine significant marker-trait associations, contributing valuable insights into the genetic basis of salinity tolerance in rice. Notably, RM3412 emerged as a marker with a highly significant association, highlighting its potential as a robust tool for marker-assisted breeding programs. These findings provide a foundation for marker-assisted screening and breeding programs aimed at developing salinity-tolerant rice varieties. Through the use of molecular markers, the study demonstrates an efficient and cost-effective alternative to extensive field trials in identifying stress-tolerant rice genotypes, ultimately contributing to enhanced food security and economic sustainability in regions prone to salinity stress. The significant marker-trait associations identified here, particularly the strong correlation with RM3412, RM562, and RM10843, offer promising prospects for advancing rice breeding efforts, ensuring crop resilience to abiotic stress factors, and supporting sustainable agriculture in the face of climate change.','Rice, Salinity, Single marker analysis, Microsatellite markers, Marker-trait associations','Abiotic stress breeding often involves the screening of a large number of plants to identify stress-tolerant individuals. Molecular markers offer a cost-effective alternative to extensive field trials, conserving resources, and reducing the expenses associated with maintaining and evaluating large breeding populations. Developing crop varieties that are resilient to abiotic stress can enhance farmers\' economic sustainability by reducing yield losses due to adverse environmental conditions. Farmers can achieve better returns on their investments, enhancing overall food security. In this study, association analyses of SSR markers linked to Saltol QTL revealed that the markers in this region were significantly associated with the related traits and are capable of properly explaining the phenotypic variance of the mentioned traits. The most important markers in this study were RM3412 and RM10843 which revealed a significant association even with more than two traits. ','-','Kylash, K.S., Shiva Prasad, G., Vanisri, S and Saida Naik, D. (2023). Phenotypic screening and Single marker analysis for salinity resistance in rice (Oryza sativa L.). Biological Forum – An International Journal, 15(10): 860-865.'),(7788,'168','Assessment of Genetic Variability, Correlation and Path Coefficient Analysis in Backcross Derived Oat Breeding Lines','Khushbu, V.K. Sood and Sanjay Kumar Sanadya ','Assessment-of-Genetic-Variability-Correlation-and-Path-Coefficient-Analysis-in-Backcross-Derived-Oat-Breeding-Lines-Khushbu-Bariya-158.pdf','',1,'Genetic variation is a prerequisite for selection of desirable plants in any crop improvement. An experiment was carried out to study the genetic variability parameters and correlation and path analysis in 39 backcrossed-derived oat lines along with parents during winter season 2022-23 in augmented design. Analysis of variance showed significant men square due to genotypes indicating sufficient genetic variation for seed yield and component traits. The genetic coefficient of variation (GCV) and phenotypic coefficient of variation (PCV) ranged from 2.61% for days to 75% maturity to 12.61% for harvest index. The studied traits had low to high genotypic and phenotypic coefficient of variation in backcross derived oat breeding lines. Genotypes exhibited high heritability coupled with genetic advance as percent of the mean for seed yield per plant, harvest index, 100-seed weight, leaves per plant and tillers per plant. Seed yield per se performance revealed three lines G10 (HJ-8-80-39-47-44), G16 (HJ-8-80-28-55-64) and G17 (HJ-8-80-36-78-67) that exhibited superiority over recurrent parent HJ-8. Seed yield per plant showed a positive association with days to 50 % flowering, plant height, tillers per plant, leaves per plant, harvest index and 100-seed weight. Surprising, 100-seed weight showed positive significant associations with all the tested characters. Harvest index showed the direct effect with seed yield per plant. There was adequate genetic variability in the tested breeding genotypes to support oat breeding for improved seed yield through direct selection for harvest index and indirect selection for tillers, leaves and 100-seed weight. MABB is the speedy breeding of plants for the disease resistance in 2-3 generations rather than the traditional backcross breeding requires 7 to 8 generations.','Variability, Correlation, Path analysis, Selection, Direct effects','The traits had genotypic and phenotypic coefficient of variation from low to high in backcross derived oat breeding lines. Among studied lines, three lines namely HJ-8-80-39-47-44, HJ-8-80-28-55-64 and HJ-8-80-36-78-67 exhibited superiority over recurrent parent HJ-8. Genotypes exhibited high heritability coupled with genetic advance as percent of the mean for seed yield per plant, harvest index, 100-seed weight, leaves per plant and tillers per plant, indicating selection may be effective for these traits. Partitioning of correlation showed that only harvest index, tillers per plant, leaves per plant and 100-seed weight could produce significant correlation with seed yield per which might be either due to very high direct or indirect effects. Hence, selection for these traits could bring improvement in yield and yield components.','-','Khushbu, V.K. Sood and Sanjay Kumar Sanadya (2023). Assessment of Genetic Variability, Correlation and Path Coefficient Analysis in Backcross Derived Oat Breeding Lines. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 15(10): 866-870.'),(7789,'168','Effect of Growth Regulators and Micronutrients on Growth and Quality Parameters of Tomato (Solanum lycopersicum L.)','Himasweta Nayak, Sunil Kumar Dash, Gouri Shankar Sahu, Pradyumna Tripathy, Simanta Mohanty and Swarnalata Das ','Effect-of-Growth-Regulators-and-Micronutrients-on-Growth-and-Quality-Parameters-of-Tomato-(Solanum-lycopersicum-L.)-Himasweta-Nayak-138.pdf','',4,'Growth regulators and micro nutrients play an imperative role enhanced plant growth and quality of the fruit. Sustainable crop production require the adoption of proper inputs for the growth and quality of the produce, hence to acquire the better understanding of use of growth regulators and micronutrients with its proper dose and method following experiment was done. An experiment was conducted to find out the effect of different plant growth regulators and micronutrients on tomato during the rabi season of 2019 at the AICRP on Vegetable Crops, College of Agriculture, Odisha University of Agriculture and Technology (OUAT), Bhubaneswar. The experiment was conducted on tomato variety Kalinga tomato-121. There were 12 treatment combinations with three replications using Randomized Block Design i.e. T1: Borax @ 0.2%, T2: Zinc sulphate @ 0.5%, T3: Micronutrient mixture @ 0.5% (Multiplex Multimax), T4: NAA 50 ppm, T5: NAA 50 ppm + Borax @ 0.2%, T6: NAA 50 ppm + Zinc sulphate @ 0.5%, T7: NAA 50 ppm + Micronutrient mixture @ 0.5% (Multiplex Multimax), T8: GA3 50 ppm, T9: GA3 50 ppm + Borax @ 0.2%, T10: GA3 50 ppm + Zinc sulphate @ 0.5%, T11: GA3 50 ppm + Micronutrient mixture @ 0.5% (Multiplex Multimax), T12: Control (without growth regulators and chemicals). According to the results, the maximum plant height (48.50 cm), number of leaves per plant (42.53), stem girth (3.20cm) and number of branches per plant (6.06) were found in treatment T11- GA3 50 ppm + Micronutrient mixture @ 0.5% (Multiplex Multimax) whereas the minimum for all the parameters were found in control. Minimum acidity % of tomato was recorded in treatment T11- GA3 50 ppm + Micronutrient mixture @ 0.5% (Multiplex Multimax) i.e. 0.43% and maximum acidity % was found in control-T12 (0.52%) From the above-mentioned investigations it can be concluded that use of GA3 50 ppm + Micronutrient mixture @ 0.5% (Multiplex Multimax) is best for tomato cultivation during rabi season in Odisha condition. ','Tomato, Growth regulators, Micronutrients, NAA, GA3, Borax, Zinc sulphate','It can be concluded that applying the plant growth regulators resulted increased vegetative growth of tomato.GA3 50 ppm + Micronutrient mixture @ 0.5% (Multiplex Multimax) given a considerable influence on all the vegetative and quality parameters relating to plant height, number of leaves per plant, stem girth, number of branches per plant and acidity % among the various treatment combinations. Thus, applying the plant growth regulators like GA3 and micronutrient mixture revealing which helps farmers in cultivating tomato in hostile climatic situation by making better availability of macro and micro nutrients and better metabolic activity. Ultimately the increased vegetative growth can lead to increased production of tomato and qualitative production of tomato.','-','Himasweta Nayak, Sunil Kumar Dash, Gouri Shankar Sahu, Pradyumna Tripathy, Simanta Mohanty and Swarnalata Das (2022). Effect of Growth Regulators and Micronutrients on Growth and Quality Parameters of Tomato (Solanum lycopersicum L.). Biological Forum – An International Journal, 14(4a): 810-813.'),(7790,'147','Effect of Growth Regulators and Micronutrients on Growth and Quality Parameters of Tomato (Solanum lycopersicum L.)','Himasweta Nayak, Sunil Kumar Dash, Gouri Shankar Sahu, Pradyumna Tripathy, Simanta Mohanty and Swarnalata Das','Effect-of-Growth-Regulators-and-Micronutrients-on-Growth-and-Quality-Parameters-of-Tomato-(Solanum-lycopersicum-L.)-Himasweta-Nayak-138.pdf','',1,'Growth regulators and micro nutrients play an imperative role enhanced plant growth and quality of the fruit. Sustainable crop production require the adoption of proper inputs for the growth and quality of the produce, hence to acquire the better understanding of use of growth regulators and micronutrients with its proper dose and method following experiment was done. An experiment was conducted to find out the effect of different plant growth regulators and micronutrients on tomato during the rabi season of 2019 at the AICRP on Vegetable Crops, College of Agriculture, Odisha University of Agriculture and Technology (OUAT), Bhubaneswar. The experiment was conducted on tomato variety Kalinga tomato-121. There were 12 treatment combinations with three replications using Randomized Block Design i.e. T1: Borax @ 0.2%, T2: Zinc sulphate @ 0.5%, T3: Micronutrient mixture @ 0.5% (Multiplex Multimax), T4: NAA 50 ppm, T5: NAA 50 ppm + Borax @ 0.2%, T6: NAA 50 ppm + Zinc sulphate @ 0.5%, T7: NAA 50 ppm + Micronutrient mixture @ 0.5% (Multiplex Multimax), T8: GA3 50 ppm, T9: GA3 50 ppm + Borax @ 0.2%, T10: GA3 50 ppm + Zinc sulphate @ 0.5%, T11: GA3 50 ppm + Micronutrient mixture @ 0.5% (Multiplex Multimax), T12: Control (without growth regulators and chemicals). According to the results, the maximum plant height (48.50 cm), number of leaves per plant (42.53), stem girth (3.20cm) and number of branches per plant (6.06) were found in treatment T11- GA3 50 ppm + Micronutrient mixture @ 0.5% (Multiplex Multimax) whereas the minimum for all the parameters were found in control. Minimum acidity % of tomato was recorded in treatment T11- GA3 50 ppm + Micronutrient mixture @ 0.5% (Multiplex Multimax) i.e. 0.43% and maximum acidity % was found in control-T12 (0.52%) From the above-mentioned investigations it can be concluded that use of GA3 50 ppm + Micronutrient mixture @ 0.5% (Multiplex Multimax) is best for tomato cultivation during rabi season in Odisha condition. ','Tomato, Growth regulators, Micronutrients, NAA, GA3, Borax, Zinc sulphate','It can be concluded that applying the plant growth regulators resulted increased vegetative growth of tomato. GA3 50 ppm + Micronutrient mixture @ 0.5% (Multiplex Multimax) given a considerable influence on all the vegetative and quality parameters relating to plant height, number of leaves per plant, stem girth, number of branches per plant and acidity % among the various treatment combinations. Thus, applying the plant growth regulators like GA3 and micronutrient mixture revealing which helps farmers in cultivating tomato in hostile climatic situation by making better availability of macro and micro nutrients and better metabolic activity. Ultimately the increased vegetative growth can lead to increased production of tomato and qualitative production of tomato.','-','Himasweta Nayak, Sunil Kumar Dash, Gouri Shankar Sahu, Pradyumna Tripathy, Simanta Mohanty and Swarnalata Das (2022). Effect of Growth Regulators and Micronutrients on Growth and Quality Parameters of Tomato (Solanum lycopersicum L.). Biological Forum – An International Journal, 14(4a): 810-813.'),(7791,'168','Evaluation of Different Insecticides against Aphid, Macrosiphum euphorbiae Infesting Rose','Priyanka, Kishor Pujar and Moulya M.R.','Evaluation-of-Different-Insecticides-Against-Aphid,-Macrosiphum-euphorbiae-Infesting-Rose-PRIYANKA-159.pdf','',1,'Rose plant is affected by several insects, mites, diseases and nematodes posing a serious threat to rose cultivation. Insects and mites attack different parts of rose plants at every phenophase of growth. Insect and mite pests on rose can cause 28–95% damage individually or in groups both in field and polyhouse. Cultural practices and botanicals can reduce the pest population. Insecticides should be applied as and when required. Hence, investigation on evaluation of different insecticides against aphid, Macrosiphum euphorbiae was carried out at Karnataka State Department of Horticulture, Shivamogga during 2017-2018 under open field conditions. For this study, seven insecticides (acetamiprid 20 SP, imidacloprid 30.5 SC, thiomethoxam 25 WG, dinutefuron 20 SG, diafenthiuron 50 WP, chlorfenapyr 10 EC and dichlorvos 76 EC) were tested, along with an untreated control. The overall mean aphid population after spraying insecticides indicated that, imidacloprid 30.5 SC was superior (8.47 per 5 cm twig). When compared to imidacloprid 30.5 SC, treatments with dinotefuron 20 SG and acetamiprid 20 SP were found to be equally effective (14.06 and 15.53 per 5 cm twig). Among the treatments, imidacloprid 30.5 SC had the highest percent reduction of 81.17, followed by thiamethoxam 25 WG and dinotefuron 20 SG (73.77 and 68.76% respectively).','Macrosiphum euphorbiae, rose, insecticides and open field conditions','Overall results of the study conclude asimidacloprid 30.5 SC was found effective in controlling the aphids followed by thiamethoxam 25 WG and dinotefuron 20 SG. ','-','Priyanka, Kishor Pujar and Moulya M.R. (2023). Evaluation of Different Insecticides Against Aphid, Macrosiphum euphorbiae Infesting Rose. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 15(10): 871-874.'),(7792,'168','Character Association and Path Coefficient Analysis in Selected Genotypes of Rice (Oryza sativa L.)','Sourav Paramanik, M. Subba Rao, Shampa Purkaystha and Ashok Singamsetti','Character-Association-and-Path-Coefficient-Analysis-in-Selected-Genotypes-of-Rice-(Oryza-sativa-L.)-M.-Subba-Rao-120.pdf','',4,'To develop new paddy varieties suitable for Odisha state, it is required to standardise the selection criteria. Yield is a crucial trait that receives significant attention in every breeding program. To uncover the factors influencing yield and their effects, an experiment involving 50 rice genotypes was conducted and both correlation and path coefficients were analysed for 15 morphological traits and yield components on grain yield. Out of these characters studied 11 characters viz., days to 50% flowering, days to maturity, plant height, number of productive tillers plant-1, panicle length, test weight, straw yield plant-1, grain length, grain breadth, biological yield plant-1 and harvest index showed highly significant and positive correlation with grain yield both at genotypic and phenotypic level. Days to maturity and harvest index exhibited high positive direct effect on grain yield, both at genotypic and phenotypic levels. In addition, straw yield plant-1, biological yield plant-1, grain breadth and grain L/B ratio also recorded high positive direct effect at genotypic level. Hence, selection based on days to maturity, harvest index, straw yield plant-1, biological yield plant-1, grain breadth and grain L/B ratio could result in bringing simultaneous improvement of grain yield in further breeding programs.','Rice, Grain yield, Yield components, Character association, Path analysis','The correlation coefficients and direct effects of the traits related to grain yield indicated that there are strong positive direct effects and highly significant positive associations between grain yield and the following traits viz., days to maturity, harvest index, straw yield and biological yield. These findings suggest that for improvement of rice grain yield, selection should be focused on the above mentioned characteristics to achieve higher grain yields.\r\nFrom the results obtained from the present study, it can be concluded that selection for intermediate to long duration genotypes with higher straw yield, biological yield, grain breadth, grain L/B ratio and semi dwarf to intermediate plant height will be useful for obtaining higher grain yield in rice crop during kharif season.\r\n','-','Sourav Paramanik, M. Subba Rao, Shampa Purkaystha and Ashok Singamsetti (2023). Character Association and Path Coefficient Analysis in Selected Genotypes of Rice (Oryza sativa L.). Biological Forum – An International Journal, 15(1): 732-737.'),(7793,'168','Unravelling the Interplay of General Combining Ability and Per Se Performance for Grain Yield and Nutritional Quality Traits in Pearl Millet (Pennisetum glaucum L.)','Rakshith P., Ayyanna, Hemanth P., I. Shanker Goud and B.V. Tembhurne ','Unravelling-the-Interplay-of-General-Combining-Ability-and-Per-Se-Performance-for-Grain-Yield-and-Nutritional-Quality-Traits-in-Pearl-Millet-(Pennisetum-glaucum-L.)-Rakshit-160.pdf','',1,'Selecting superior parental lines is essential for enhancing yield and quality traits in pearl millet hybrid breeding. This study assessed the general combining ability (GCA) of parental lines and their relationship with per se performance, focusing on grain yield and quality. Two sets of 72 test crosses involved 24 parental lines and 12 testers, evaluated across multiple locations. Statistical analyses, including Analysis of variance, combining ability, and correlation assessments, identified good general combiners. R-L1, R-L10, B-L7, B-L8, and B-L1 displayed the highest GCA effects for grain yield. The positive correlation between per se performance and GCA effects suggests that high GCA lines have the potential to perform well in different yield categories, making their selection in high-yield lines a more rewarding choice for seed production. A significant positive correlation between GCA effects and hybrid performance underlines the predictive power of GCA in enhancing breeding efficiency and reducing resource consumption in developing high-yielding single-cross hybrids in pearl millet.','General combining ability, Per se performance, Correlation, Analysis of Variance, Line × tester','In conclusion, this study on the interplay of GCA and per se performance in pearl millet provides useful insights for the improvement of grain yield and nutritional quality traits in pearl millet hybrid breeding programs. The identification of good general combiners, such as R-L1, R-L10, B-L7, B-L8, and B-L1, based on their GCA effects for grain yield, underscores the significance of selecting superior parental lines. The positive no significant correlation observed between per se performance and GCA effects implies that high GCA lines have the potential to perform well across different yield categories, selecting them in high yielding backgrounds are promising candidates for seed production. The study emphasizes the predictive power of GCA, as evidenced by the significant positive correlation between sum of parental GCA effects and hybrid performance. This predictive capability of GCA can enhance breeding efficiency, allowing for the development of high-yielding single-cross hybrids in pearl millet while reducing resource consumption required for testing unnecessary crosses. Overall, the findings underscore the importance of considering both GCA and per se performance in the selection of parental lines for hybrid breeding strategies.','-','Rakshith P., Ayyanna, Hemanth P., I. Shanker Goud and B.V. Tembhurne (2023). Unravelling the Interplay of General Combining Ability and Per Se Performance for Grain Yield and Nutritional Quality Traits in Pearl Millet (Pennisetum glaucum L.). Biological Forum – An International Journal, 15(10): 875-882.'),(7794,'168','Mesenchymal Stem Cells in Regenerative Medicine','Pavitra Revadi Jain, Vivek R. Kasaralikar, Pradeepkumar H., B Roopali, Pavan, Manikya Sai Kiran and Sai Prasanna G.','Mesenchymal-Stem-Cells-in-Regenerative-Medicine-Pavitra-Revadi-Jain-161.pdf','',1,'Regenerative medicine\'s key tool is mesenchymal stem cells. Multipurpose mesenchymal stromal cells, multipotent stromal cells, medicinal signalling cells, and MSCs are various names for mesenchymal stem cells. The first isolation of human ESC (Embryonic Stem Cells) was reported in 1998. The osteogenic population of cells with fibroblast-like appearance that were isolated from bone marrow in 1968 is the first recorded evidence of adult multipotent cells, or MSC. The primary sources of MSCs are classified as adult, fetal, and embryonic cell types. MScs can be delivered intra-arterially, intra-lesionally, via multi-focal lesions, intravenous catheterization, and regional perfusion. MSCs can be clinically utilized in veterinary regenerative medicine to treat clinical conditions mostly associated with autoimmune, degenerative, and inflammatory diseases.','Mesenchymal stem cells, Regenerative Medicine, tissue repair mechanism, multipotent cells, Intra-arterial delivery, multi-focal lesions','Regenerative Medicine is still in budding stage. Still preclinical trials are ongoing in the field so to gain the knowledge of regenerative medicine it is important to know the source, differentiating ability, routes of administration and clinical areas of MSCs.','-','Pavitra Revadi Jain, Vivek R. Kasaralikar, Pradeepkumar H., B Roopali, Pavan, Manikya Sai Kiran and Sai Prasanna G. (2023). Mesenchymal Stem Cells in Regenerative Medicine. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 15(10): 883-884.'),(7795,'165','Therapeutic Potentials of Mesenchymal Stem Cells','Pavitra Revadi Jain, Vivek R. Kasaralikar, Pradeepkumar Hiremani, B. Roopali, Pavan, Manikya Sai Kiran and Sai Prasanna G.','Therapeutic-Potentials-of-Mesenchymal-Stem-Cells-Pavitra-Revadi-Jain-187.pdf','',1,'Regenerative medicine\'s main tool is mesenchymal stem cells. Multipotent mesenchymal stromal cells, multipotent stromal cells, medicinal signalling cells, and MSCs are other names for mesenchymal stem cells. The primary immunomodulatory mechanisms by which MSCs exhibit their therapeutic qualities are paracrine action, extracellular vesicle (ECV) secretion, apoptosis-mediated immunomodulation, and mitochondrial transfer of membrane vesicles and organelles. MSCs primarily work by causing functional alterations in immune cells through paracrine signalling. ECVs are vesicles that form via inward or outward budding from the plasma membrane. The process of phagocytic clearance of dying cells, or efferocytosis, contributes to more than just the healing of damaged tissue and the absence of inflammation. A variety of physiological and pathological processes are linked to mitochondrial transport. One of MSC-based therapies\' main benefits is their capacity to repair injured tissue, in addition to their intricate immunomodulation processes.','Mesenchymal stem cells, Regenerative Medicine, Paracrine action, Mitochondrial transfer, Apoptosis mediated immunomodulation and Phagocytic clearance','Regenerative Medicine is a budding area in Veterinary Medicine. MSCs are the main tools in the field of regenerative medicine, to use the MSCs properly according to clinical condition it is very important to know the therapeutic potential of MSCs of different origin and different path of action.','-','Pavitra Revadi Jain, Vivek R. Kasaralikar, Pradeepkumar Hiremani, B. Roopali, Pavan, Manikya Sai Kiran and Sai Prasanna G. (2023). Therapeutic Potentials of Mesenchymal Stem Cells. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 15(9): 1081-1083.'),(7796,'168','In vivo evaluation of seed biopriming with Bacillus, Pseudomonas sp. and actinobacterial isolates on seed germination and seedling vigour of chilli (Capsicum annuum L.)','A. K. Kulsumbi, S. S. Chandrashekhar, J. S. Hilli, P. U. Krishnaraj and H. Ravikumar','In-vivo-evaluation-of-seed-biopriming-with-Bacillus,-Pseudomonas-sp.-and-actinobacterial-isolates-on-seed-germination-and-seedling-vigour-of-chilli-(Capsicum-annuum-L.)-K-Kulsumbi-162.pdf','',1,'This research was conducted at the Department of Seed Science and Technology, University of Agricultural Sciences, Dharwad, over the period of 2019-2021. Seed priming, a technique involving the hydration of seeds to activate metabolic processes without actual germination, followed by subsequent drying, has been recognized for its ability to enhance germination rates, seedling establishment, and stress tolerance across various crops. In this particular study, our objective was to assess the efficacy and potential of three distinct bacterial strains in promoting seedling vigour and improving germination percentages in the Byadgi dabbi, chilli variety. To achieve this, we employed a bio-priming method in which the chilli seeds were soaked in solutions containing eight different isolates of Bacillus, Pseudomonas sp. and actinobacteria strains for a standardized duration of 12 hours. Among the eight isolates from these three bacterial groups, B. subtilis, AUDP209, and AUDT636 exhibited significant and positive responses regarding seed germination rates, with values of 71.00%, 73.00%, and 75.00%, respectively. Similarly, these three isolates displayed enhanced seedling vigour, with corresponding values of 1168, 1104, and 1231, surpassing the performance of other isolates and the control group. Moreover, these specific isolates also led to greater root and shoot lengths. When comparing the three bacterial groups, it was observed that actinobacteria, which includes AUDP209 and AUDT636, proved to be the most effective in terms of enhancing both germination percentages and seedling vigour. This research sheds light on the potential benefits of employing specific bacterial strains, such as B. subtilis, AUDP209, and AUDT636, for bio-priming in chili cultivation, which can significantly contribute to improved seed germination and seedling development, ultimately enhancing crop productivity.','Actinobacteria, Bacillus sp., Pseudomonas sp., Seed biopriming, Seedling vigour','In vivo evaluation of Bacillus, Pseudomonas sp. and Actinobacteria was carried out with eight different strains for seed quality enhancing properties, among eight strains B. subtilis, AUDP209 and AUDT636 proved to be the prominent strains for enhancing seed germination and seedling vigour.','-','A. K. Kulsumbi, S. S. Chandrashekhar, J. S. Hilli, P. U. Krishnaraj and H. Ravikumar (2023). In vivo evaluation of seed biopriming with Bacillus, Pseudomonas sp. and actinobacterial isolates on seed germination and seedling vigour of chilli (Capsicum annuum L.). Biological Forum – An International Journal, 15(10): 885-891.'),(7797,'168','Different Levels of RDF with NAA Combinations Transform the Growth and Qualitative characteristics of Pomegranate (Punica granatum L.)','Manmohan Singh Bhooriya, T.R. Sharma, R.K. Jhade, Dinesh Kumar Kuldeep and Reema Khobragade ','Different-Levels-of-RDF-with-NAA-Combinations-Transform-the-Growth-and-Qualitative-characteristics-of-Pomegranate-(Punica-granatum-L.)-Manmohan-Singh-Bhooriya-163.pdf','',1,'The present investigation was conducted at Jawaharlal Nehru Krishi Vishwavidyalaya, KVK, Chhindwara (M.P.), India, during 2019-2020 and 2020-2021 to investigate the impact of NAA and RDF levels on plant growth and fruit quality of pomegranate (Punica granatum L.) in central India condition. Lot of work has been done in different part of India, however there is very limited work on pomegranate crop in central India specially Madhya Pradesh. The investigation was carried out on a seven-year-old Bhagwa plantation at a distance of 12 by 8 feet. Eighteen treatment combinations were used in the experiment, with three levels of the recommended dose of fertilizers (100%, 75%, and 125%), three levels of NAA (0 ppm, 10 ppm, and 20 ppm), and fertigate applied at intervals of 15 and 30 days with three replications using asymmetrical factorial RBD. The analysis showed that minimum days to bloom appearance, days to fruit initiation, and maximum juice (%) as well as aril (%) were observed under T13 (100% RDF + NAA 20 ppm + fertigate) at a 15-day interval. while the maximum plant height, chlorophyll content, days to bloom appearance, and days to fruit initiation were observed in treatment (125% RDF + 20ppm NAA + fertigation 15 days), while the minimum plant height, chlorophyll content, juice, and aril (%) were recorded under the combination 75% recommended dose of fertilizers + 0 ppm naphthalene acetic acid + fertigation 30 days during both years. The production and quality characteristics of pomegranates were strongly impacted by the use of chemical fertilizers (N, P, and K) as well as plant growth hormones (NAA).','Pomegranate, Naphthalene acetic acid, RDF, Chlorophyll, qualitative attributes','Based on the results of this experiment, it can be determined that the combination of 100% RDF + 20 ppm NAA + 15 days of fertigation had a substantial impact on days to bloom appearance, days to fruit initiation juice (%) and aril (%) than all other treatment combinations, and the maximum plant height and chlorophyll content recorded under the combination of 125% RDF (781:313:313 g NPK per plant), 20 ppm naphthalene acetic acid per plant, and fertigation with NPK at a 15-day interval The treatment combination of 75% RDF + 0 ppm naphthalene acetic acid + fertigation with NPK at a 30-day interval had the lowest significant effect on days to bloom appearance, days to fruit initiation, plant height, chlorophyll content, juice, and aril (%) than any other combination of treatments. A considerable increase in fruit growth and quality was seen upon the application of inorganic fertilizer and naphthalene acetic acid.','-','Manmohan Singh Bhooriya, T.R. Sharma, R.K. Jhade, Dinesh Kumar Kuldeep and Reema Khobragade (2023). Different Levels of RDF with NAA Combinations Transform the Growth and Qualitative characteristics of Pomegranate (Punica granatum L.). Biological Forum – An International Journal, 15(10): 892-897.'),(7798,'168','Acute Toxicity Study of Alpha-Amanitin in Wistar Albino Rat','Debbarma K., Sarma J., Baruah H., Kafle A., Rahman F., Dutta B., Nath R., Shüya P., Patir T. and Bhuyan U.','Acute-Toxicity-Study-of-Alpha-Amanitin-in-Wistar-Albino-Rat-Khumtya-Debbarma-164.pdf','',1,'The present study was designed to determine the acute oral toxicity of Alpha-amanitin (α-amanitin) in Wistar albino rats. Acute oral toxicity study was carried out to estimate median lethal dose (LD50) of α-amanitin. LD50 is the dose of a chemical, calculated as per the concentration of chemicals that produce death in 50% of a population of test animals to which it is administered by any of a variety of methods. A single oral dose of α-amanitin were dissolved in phosphate buffer saline (PBS) and administered orally at a concentration of 0.05, 0.1, 0.2, 0.4 mg/kg body weight to experimental animals. LD50 was calculated according to the method described by Miller and Tainter (1944) and was observed as 0.2 mg/kg body weight. Single dose of α-amanitin at 0.05 mg/kg body weight did not reveal any toxic signs or behavioral alterations, hence considered as No Observed Adverse Effect level (NOAEL). Histopathology of liver tissue showed morphological abnormalities such as multiple focal necrosis, fragmentation of nuclear materials, fatty changes characterized by focal accumulation of fat droplets and distortion of hepatic cord with necrosis. ','Alpha-amanitin, Median lethal dose, No observed adverse effect level, Histopathology, Necrosis, Fragmentation','The strong point of our study was the intoxication model (Wistar albino rat), in which there was no death after oral dosing of α-amanitin at 0.05 mg/kg body weight. We obtained the results from all animals, so there was no data loss. The oral LD50 of α-amanitin is calculated as 0.2 mg/kg body weight in Wistar albino rat. The pathology results of our study showed the presence of hepatic damage in in vivo rat intoxication model. \r\nPharmacokinetics and pharmacodynamics of ingested α-amanitin orally may differ from that of intraperitoneal α-amanitin injected. An animal model may not represent the same oral median lethal dose (LD50) with that of human beings.\r\n','-','Debbarma K., Sarma J., Baruah H., Kafle A., Rahman F., Dutta B., Nath R., Shüya P., Patir T. and Bhuyan U. (2023). Acute Toxicity Study of Alpha-Amanitin in Wistar Albino Rat. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 15(10): 898-901.'),(7799,'168','Character Association and Path Coefficient Analysis in Selected Genotypes of Rice (Oryza sativa L.)','Sourav Paramanik, M. Subba Rao, Shampa Purkaystha and Ashok Singamsetti ','Character-Association-and-Path-Coefficient-Analysis-in-Selected-Genotypes-of-Rice-(Oryza-sativa-L.)-M.-Subba-Rao-165.pdf','',1,'To develop new paddy varieties suitable for Odisha state, it is required to standardise the selection criteria. Yield is a crucial trait that receives significant attention in every breeding program. To uncover the factors influencing yield and their effects, an experiment involving 50 rice genotypes was conducted and both correlation and path coefficients were analysed for 15 morphological traits and yield components on grain yield. Out of these characters studied 11 characters viz., days to 50% flowering, days to maturity, plant height, number of productive tillers plant-1, panicle length, test weight, straw yield plant-1, grain length, grain breadth, biological yield plant-1 and harvest index showed highly significant and positive correlation with grain yield both at genotypic and phenotypic level. Days to maturity and harvest index exhibited high positive direct effect on grain yield, both at genotypic and phenotypic levels. In addition, straw yield plant-1, biological yield plant-1, grain breadth and grain L/B ratio also recorded high positive direct effect at genotypic level. Hence, selection based on days to maturity, harvest index, straw yield plant-1, biological yield plant-1, grain breadth and grain L/B ratio could result in bringing simultaneous improvement of grain yield in further breeding programs.','Rice, Grain yield, Yield components, Character association, Path analysis','The correlation coefficients and direct effects of the traits related to grain yield indicated that there are strong positive direct effects and highly significant positive associations between grain yield and the following traits viz., days to maturity, harvest index, straw yield and biological yield. These findings suggest that for improvement of rice grain yield, selection should be focused on the above mentioned characteristics to achieve higher grain yields.\r\nFrom the results obtained from the present study, it can be concluded that selection for intermediate to long duration genotypes with higher straw yield, biological yield, grain breadth, grain L/B ratio and semi dwarf to intermediate plant height will be useful for obtaining higher grain yield in rice crop during kharif season.\r\n','-','Sourav Paramanik, M. Subba Rao, Shampa Purkaystha and Ashok Singamsetti (2023). Character Association and Path Coefficient Analysis in Selected Genotypes of Rice (Oryza sativa L.). Biological Forum – An International Journal, 15(10): 902-911.'),(7800,'168','Effect of Operational Parameter on the Bulk Density of the Rotary Blades (L and J- Shape Blade)','Yalaka Nandini, Atul Kumar Shrivastava, Avinash Kumar and Rohit Namdeo','Effect of Operational Parameter on the Bulk Density of the Rotary Blades _L and J- Shape Blade-Avinash Kumar-166.pdf','',1,'A research investigation aimed to determine the optimal combination of commercially available L and J-shaped rotary blades concerning blade speed (75, 100, and 125 rpm), operating depth (3, 6, 9 cm), and forward motion speed (1, 1.5, 2 km/h) in vertisol soil. Following the rotary blades\' pass, the various treatment combinations were assessed. It is so difficult to find out the soil parameters in laboratory condition, due to the factor affect on the blades while in operational condition. All the tests were carried out as per the Indian standard and after following the correct methodology to obtained the findings. Results indicated that J-shaped blades resulted in lower bulk density compared to L-shaped blades at a rotary speed of 110 rpm, forward speed of 1.5 km/h, and an operating depth of 8.25 cm for the J-shaped blade. The predicted mean bulk density for J-shaped blades was 1.441 g/cm³. In contrast, L-shaped blades exhibited higher bulk density than J-shaped blades. Overall, the J-shaped blade proved more effective for pulverization operations compared to the L-shaped blades.','L shape blade, J shape blade, Rotary rpm, Forward speed, Bulk density.','Bulk density exhibits a decrease with an increase in the depth of operation and forward speed of motion, while it increases with an increase in rotor speed. This decline is attributed to the diminished soil interaction time resulting from higher machine speed, leading to less thorough mixing, clod breakage, and compaction, ultimately yielding lower bulk density. Optimal weeding and tillage were observed at 110 rotor rpm, 1.5 km/h forward speed, and a depth of operation of 8.25 cm, specifically with the J-shaped blade. The predicted mean bulk density, determined after analysis, was 1.441 g/cc. In comparison, the L-shaped blade resulted in higher bulk density than the J-shaped blades. Notably, the J-shaped blade demonstrated higher effectiveness, particularly in pulverization operations.','-','Yalaka Nandini, Atul Kumar Shrivastava, Avinash Kumar and Rohit Namdeo (2023). Effect of Operational Parameter on the Bulk Density of the Rotary Blades (L and J- Shape Blade). Biological Forum – An International Journal, 15(10): 912-917.'),(7801,'168','Effect of Lead Stress on Morphological and Physiological Features of Wheat (Triticum aestivum L.) during Vegetative Stage','Satish Kumar and Amarendra Narayan Misra','Effect of Lead Stress on Morphological and Physiological Features of Wheat _Triticum aestivum L-6428-167.pdf','',1,'The presence of lead (Pb) in agricultural soils caused by human activities has sparked concerns about its harmful effects on plant species. This research aimed to explore how lead affects different physiological factors in wheat (Triticum aestivum L.). Wheat seeds were germinated under controlled conditions in petri plates and exposed to varying concentrations (0, 50, 100, 150, 200, 250, and 500 μM) of Pb(NO3)2. As the Pb concentration increased, there was a gradual decrease in germination percentage, fresh and dry weights, shoot and root lengths, as well as chlorophyll and carotenoid levels compared to the control group. This decline in growth and pigment content is attributed to peroxidative processes triggered by Pb toxicity in the root system. Enzyme analyses showed that exposure to 500 μM Pb resulted in reduced catalase (CAT) and peroxidase (POD) activities, while superoxide dismutase (SOD) activity increased in both shoot and root tissues of wheat seedlings. In conclusion, this study highlights the negative impact of lead on various physiological aspects of wheat growth, including germination, growth inhibition, reduction in pigment content, and disruptions in enzyme activity. These findings underscore the need for effective strategies to alleviate lead-induced stress in agro ecosystems.','Chlorophyll, Lead, Catalase, Peroxidase, Superoxide dismutase.','The current study has revealed that subjecting wheat seedlings to varying lead treatments results in a range of metabolic disruptions. These include reductions in germination rate, plant length, biomass, and photosynthetic pigment content, all indicative of the presence of lead-induced toxicity in the seedlings. In response to this toxicity, there was an observed increase in the activities of antioxidant enzymes, accumulation. These responses appear to serve as protective mechanisms against the harmful effects of lead exposure. Notably, the root system of the seedlings demonstrated greater vulnerability to lead toxicity compared to the shoot. Given the insights gained from this research, future experiments could be directed towards identifying specific molecules or compounds with the potential to mitigate the toxic impact of lead. By exploring novel strategies or substances that can counteract the detrimental effects of lead, researchers could contribute to the development of effective measures for safeguarding plants against heavy metal toxicity. These investigations could offer valuable solutions for managing the challenges posed by lead pollution and its adverse effects on plant systems.','-','Satish Kumar and Amarendra Narayan Misra (2023). Effect of Lead Stress on Morphological and Physiological Features of Wheat (Triticum aestivum L.) during Vegetative Stage. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 15(10): 918-924.'),(7802,'168','Effect of Abiotic Factors on Seasonal Incidence of Sucking Pests on Chilli','Neha Girish Matra, S.D. Bantewad, Saif Ali Khan, Anjali P. Sharma and Sourabh Maheshwari','Effect of Abiotic Factors on Seasonal Incidence of Sucking Pests on Chilli-168-Neha Girish Matra.pdf','',1,'A field experiment was conducted at experimental farm of Department of Agricultural Entomology, Vasantrao Naik Marathwada Krishi Vidyapeeth, Parbhani, during the kharif season 2022-23 to study seasonal incidence of sucking pests on chilli in relation to weather parameters. The experiment was conducted in unprotected plot which was non- replicated. The observations on seasonal incidence of aphids, thrips, whiteflies, leaf hoppers were recorded. Aphids and leaf hoppers activity commenced in second week of August, while, thrips and whiteflies activity started in first week of August. The peak activity of aphids was observed during last week of August (14.60 aphids/3 leaves), whereas, thrips reached peak during September third week (17.20 thrips/3 leaves). Further, whiteflies and leaf hoppers reached peak (8.80 whiteflies/3 leaves) and (6.60 hoppers /3 leaves), respectively during September second week. The aphids showed non-significant negative correlation with rainfall and morning relative humidity, while non-significant positive correlation with maximum temperature, minimum temperature, evening relative humidity and wind speed. The thrips showed non-significant negative correlation with rainfall, while non-significant positive correlation with the maximum temperature, minimum temperature, evening relative humidity and wind speed. The whiteflies showed non-significant positive correlation with the rainfall, maximum temperature, minimum temperature, morning relative humidity, evening relative humidity and wind speed. The leaf hoppers population showed non-significant negative correlation with maximum temperature, while non-significant positive correlation with the rainfall, minimum temperature, evening relative humidity and wind speed etc.','Correlation, aphids, thrips, whiteflies, leaf hoppers, Capsicum annum','The population of aphids showed non-significant negative correlation with rainfall, morning relative humidity and non-significant positive correlation with maximum temperature, minimum temperature, evening relative humidity and wind speed. The thrips population showed non-significant negative correlation with rainfall, while non-significant positive correlation with the maximum temperature, minimum temperature, evening relative humidity and wind speed. The whiteflies population showed non significant positive correlation with the rainfall, maximum temperature, minimum temperature morning relative humidity, evening relative humidity and wind speed and leaf hoppers population showed non significant negative correlation with maximum temperature, while non-significant positive correlation with the rainfall, minimum temperature, evening relative humidity and wind speed. ','-','Neha Girish Matra, S.D. Bantewad, Saif Ali Khan, Anjali P. Sharma and Sourabh Maheshwari (2023). Effect of Abiotic Factors on Seasonal Incidence of Sucking Pests on Chilli. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 15(10): 925-928.'),(7803,'167','Availability and Practices of Blood Transfusion in Thalassemia Patients: Current Status with Reference to India','Jeeya Shah and Nirmal Sharma','Availability-and-Practices-of-Blood-Transfusion-in-Thalassemia-Patients-Current-Status-with-Reference-to-India-Jeeya-Shah-11.pdf','',1,'Thalassemia major is a blood disorder of inheritance that is transmitted from parents to offspring, resulting in incapacity to produce an adequate quantity of haemoglobin and severe haemolytic anaemia. These conditions are extremely prevalent single-gene disorders in India. Patients with thalassemia require lifelong regular blood transfusion, typically beginning prior to being 2 years old, and die within ten-twenty years if untreated. The purpose of this investigation is to determine the prevalence and availability of blood transfusions among thalassemia patients in India. The challenge is that the illness is severely impacted by the adverse effects of transfusions, which must be assessed and managed throughout life. Blood transfusion exposes patients to adverse events like nonhemolytic cold, along with allergic, and also delayed reactions to a blood transfusion, transfusion-related lung injury, along with graft-versus-host illness, and the transfusion of pathogenic organisms including viruses, bacteria, and parasites. The prevalence of thalassemia differs as the geographical location changes and availability of blood transfusions depending on different awareness program, which is a part of management of blood transfusion for Thalassemia patients.','Blood transfusion, Thalassemia, India, Patients, Availability, Practices','Although substantial data on the incidence of thalassemia carriers is accessible from a few states in India, much of it is hospital-based along with selective, making it difficult to estimate the true disease burden. In India, transfusion care for Hb disorder patients should continue to emphasize education and awareness. During viral pandemics, it is essential that blood depots and transfusion facilities remain operational for the sake of other patients. During these pandemics, blood banks along with transfusion centres must devise strategies to preserve blood supply. A team-based strategy is essential for conquering the present obstacles. With the imminent implementation of a national thalassemia control program and the availability of blood transfusions, adequate centres for assessment and suitable quality control would be recognized, and a multitude of trained ancillary workers and genetic counsellors will be needed. ','-','-'),(7804,'168','Studies on the Influence of Soilless Growing Systems and Nutrient Concentration of Hoagland’s Solution on Crop Growth and Yield of Paprika Chilli \r\n(Capsicum annuum L.)\r\n','Seema A.N. and Vishwanath K. ','Studies-on-the-Influence-of-Soilless-Growing-Systems-and-Nutrient-Concentration-of-Hoagland’s-Solution-on-Crop-Growth-and-Yield-of-Paprika-Chilli--Seema-AN-169.pdf','',1,'The experiment was conducted at AICRP on Seed (Crops), UAS, GKVK, Bangalore during 2022-2023. Two different soilless growing systems (Dutch buckets and Grow bags) and four different nutrient concentrations of Hoagland’s solution (50%, 100%, 150% and 10% increase in 100% solution for every 20 days) were evaluated by keeping soil as control to study their influence on growth and yield of paprika chilli. The results revealed that, among the treatments, crop grown in Dutch buckets with 100% Hoagland’s solution (T1) had significantly highest seedling survival (100%) at 20 DAT, plant height (165.38cm), leaf area (1591.79cm2), chlorophyll content (56.86), number of branches (28.67), net assimilation rate (0.00083 mgcm-2day-1) and shows early maturity (119.06)compared to control (98.67%, 144.18cm,1110.87cm2, 44.28, 23.67, 0.00058 mgcm-2 day-1 and 120.94, respectively). It is also observed that, 100% Hoagland’s solution in Dutch bucket showed maximum fruit length and diameter (17.15 and 1.60cm), total number of fruits per plant (67.27), fruit weight (6.46g), fruit yield (379.01 g/plant and 58.75 q/ha), number of seeds per fruit (51.00), seed weight (3.17g/fruit), seed yield (16.42 g/plant and 254.51 kg/ha), seed to fruit recovery percentage (4.35%), total biomass (120.82g/plant), and harvest index (3.14) over control (15.69cm, 1.41cm, 55.73, 4.84g, 258.50g/plant, 40.07q/ha, 41.27, 1.61g/fruit, 10.42g/plant, 161.51kg/ha, 3.98%, 91.10g/plant and 2.84,respectively). Whereas, 50% Hoagland’s solution performed comparatively less in both Dutch buckets and Grow bags over control. Chilli crop grown in Dutch buckets with 100 % Hoagland’s solution improved the crop performance, fruit and seed yield compared to control and other soilless treatments. Hence, this could be exploited for commercial seed production of chilli.','Soilless Growing Systems, Hoagland’s Solution, Dutch buckets, Grow bags, Paprika Chilli','In conclusion, the above findings revealed that, when the Hoagland’s solution was used as nutrient medium and clay balls and coco peat were used as growing medium for soilless cultivation, chilli plants produced higher vegetative growth, providing that the concentration of Hoagland’s solution and quality of growing substrates greatly matters when crops are grown under controlled condition. The chilli crop grown in 100 % concentration of Hoagland’s solutions and better water holding capacity of clay balls medium in Dutch bucket influenced the performance of chilli plants under polyhouse condition and significantly showed overall crop performance in terms of highest plant growth, fruit yield and seed yield characters.','-','Seema A.N. and Vishwanath K. (2023). Studies on the Influence of Soilless Growing Systems and Nutrient Concentration of Hoagland’s Solution on Crop Growth and Yield of Paprika Chilli (Capsicum annuum L.). Biological Forum – An International Journal, 15(10): 929-937.'),(7805,'168','Isolation, Characterization, and Antagonistic Activity of Multifaceted Plant Growth-Promoting Bacteria, Including Metaltolerant Lysinibacillus macroides, From Vegetable-Cultivated Soils in Namakkal District, Tamil Nadu, India','R.C. Senthamil Selvi and N. Thangaraj','Isolation-Characterization-and-Antagonistic-Activity-of-Multifaceted-Plant-Growth-Promoting-Bacteria,-Including-Metaltolerant-Lysinibacillus---macroides,-From-Vegetable-Cultivated-Soils-in-N-Thangaraj-170.pdf','',1,'The study isolates and characterizes multifaceted bacteria, like Lysinibacillus macrolides, with metal tolerance and pathogen control, showcasing their potential in sustainable agriculture and environmental management. The aim of this work is to isolate and characterize multifaceted microorganisms, particularly Lysinibacillus macrolides, for sustainable agriculture and environmental management. Soil samples from Namakkal were used to isolate rhizospheric bacteria via serial dilution plating. Isolates were evaluated for multiple plant growth-promoting traits, metal resistance, and antagonistic activity against phytopathogenic fungi. DNA sequencing was employed for isolate identification. The study identified 25 bacterial isolates with multiple plant growth-promoting traits, metal tolerance, and antagonistic activity. Lysinibacillus macroides exhibited high lead and chromium tolerance and effective antifungal activity against Fusarium sp., with an 84% growth inhibition. Based on the results, it can be concluded that the isolates are the best and can be used to improve soil fertility and this PGP bacterium was hold great promise for sustainable agriculture and environmental improvement. ','PGPF, Siderophore, Metal resistance, Lysinibacillus macroides, Antagonistic activity','PGP bacteria like Lysinibacillus macrolides offer a comprehensive solution for sustainable agriculture and environmental management. Their unique combination of PGP traits, metal tolerance, and pathogen control reduces reliance on chemicals, enhances crop health, and improves soil fertility. This study broadens our understanding of diverse PGP isolates with specific traits, including nitrogen fixation and enzyme production. Notably, the discovery of lead tolerance in Lysinibacillus macrolides has implications for polluted soil remediation. Additionally, their potent antifungal activity against Fusarium sp. underscores their role as a natural crop defense mechanism, reducing the need for synthetic pesticides. This PGP bacterium was hold great promise for sustainable agriculture and environmental improvement. ','-','R.C. Senthamil Selvi and N. Thangaraj (2023). Isolation, Characterization, and Antagonistic Activity of Multifaceted Plant Growth-Promoting Bacteria, Including Metaltolerant Lysinibacillus macroides, From Vegetable-Cultivated Soils in Namakkal District, Tamil Nadu, India. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 15(10): 938-944.'),(7806,'168','Visual Method for Non-destructive Scoring of Iron Deficiency in Aerobic Rice Cultivars','B. Soumya, K.P. Vani, Kadasiddappa M.M. and Ranjitha P.','Visual-Method-for-Non-destructive-Scoring-of-Iron-Deficiency-in-Aerobic-Rice-Cultivars-B-Soumya-171.pdf','',1,'The aerobic rice is grown under non-puddled, non-flooded and non-saturated soil conditions as other upland crops such as wheat and maize, by cultivating high-yielding rice varieties in aerobic soils with irrigation facilities. Under aerobic soil condition iron deficiency induced chlorosis is the common encountered problem which reduces the crop yield drastically. To overcome this problem, a field experiment was conducted at Professor Jayashankar Telangana State Agricultural University, Hyderabad, in sandy clay loam to observe the iron chlorosis in aerobic rice cultivars to varying levels of iron nutrition. The experiment was laid out in a split plot design, comprising twelve treatment combinations of iron (F0 to F11) and three rice cultivars (V1, V2 and V3) which were repeated three times. Iron treatments include two sources of iron i.e., iron sulphate and iron chelate and their combinations like foliar application, soil application and combination of both soil and foliar applications. The results indicated that iron deficiency intensity i.e. iron scoring at 15, 30, 45 and 60 DAS was significantly influenced by cultivars and iron application. Similarly, SPAD values at 30, 60, 90 DAS and at harvest was significantly influenced by cultivars and iron application. Among the cultivars tested, KRH 2 was more tolerant to iron deficiency induced chlorosis and maintained its greenness at different stages of crop growth. Iron nutrition treatments also decreased the chlorosis of rice plants, between them basal application of iron chelate @ 25 kg ha-1 along with 3 foliar sprays of iron sulphate from 21 DAS @ 7 days interval was ideal for field application.','Aerobic rice, Fe deficiency, Rice cultivars, SPAD, Chlorosis, Iron deficiency intensity','KRH 2 was more tolerant to iron deficiency induced chlorosis under aerobic method of rice cultivation.\r\nIron nutrition treatments also decreased the chlorosis of rice plants, between them basal application of iron chelate @ 25 kg ha-1 along with 3 foliar sprays of iron sulphate from 21 DAS @ 7 days interval was ideal for field application.\r\n','-','B. Soumya, K.P. Vani, Kadasiddappa M.M. and Ranjitha P. (2023). Visual Method for Non-destructive Scoring of Iron Deficiency in Aerobic Rice Cultivars. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 15(10): 945-949.'),(7807,'168','Effect of Integrated Nutrient Management on Growth and Yield of Radish (Raphanus sativus L.) cv. Japanese White','Shivraj Yadav, Rajesh Kumar Meena, Gajendra Chawla, M.L. Meena, Kuldeep Hariyana and Sagar Saini ','Effect-of-Integrated-Nutrient-Management-on-Growth-and-Yield-of-Radish-(Raphanus-sativus-L.)-cv.-Japanese-White-Shivraj-Yadav-172.pdf','',1,'The present investigation entitled effect of integrated nutrient management on growth and yield of radish (Raphanus sativus L.) cv. Japanese white was carried out the Horticultural Research Farm-1, Department of Horticulture, Babasaheb Bhimrao Ambedkar University (A central university) Vidya Vihar, Raebareli Road, Lucknow (U.P.) during the season, 2022-2023. The experimental materials for the present investigation was consisted of 10 treatment combinations laid out in Randomized Block Design and replicated thrice. The maximum plant height at 30, 45 and 60 DAS was recorded of the treatment in T5 followed by T7 as compared to the minimum treatment in T1. The fresh weight of the plants exhibited a notable variation, wherein a substantially higher fresh weight of roots was evident upon the application of NPK 50% + Vermicompost at a rate of 2 tons/ha in T5. Following closely, T7, with the application of NPK (50%) + Poultry Manure (50%) at 1.5 tons/ha, also demonstrated a significant increase in fresh root weight/ha and the minimum fresh weight of plant in T1.','Integrated Nutrient Management, Growth and Yield, Vermicompost, Poultry Manure, NPK','On the basis of result obtained from the present investigation it can be concluded that foliar application of NPK 50%+Vermicompost @2tons/ha. was found most effective with respect to vegetative growth maximum and root yield of radish can be recommended to farmers for commercial cultivation of radish (Raphanus sativus L.) cv. Japanese White under the Lucknow condition.','-','Shivraj Yadav, Rajesh Kumar Meena, Gajendra Chawla, M.L. Meena, Kuldeep Hariyana and Sagar Saini (2023). Effect of Integrated Nutrient Management on Growth and Yield of Radish (Raphanus sativus L.) cv. Japanese White. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 15(10): 950-954.'),(7808,'168','Effect of Integrated Nutrient Management on Quality of Radish (Raphanus sativus L.) cv. Japanese White\r\n','Shivraj Yadav, Rajesh Kumar Meena, Kuldeep Hariyana, Gajendra Chawla, M.L. Meena and Sagar Saini ','Effect-of-Integrated-Nutrient-Management-on-Quality-of-Radish-(Raphanus-sativus-L.)-cv.-Japanese-White-Rajesh-Kumar-Meena-174.pdf','',4,'The present investigation entitled “Effect of Integrated Nutrient Management on quality of Radish (Raphanus sativus L.) cv. Japanese White” was carried out the Horticultural Research Farm-1, Department of Horticulture, Babasaheb Bhimrao Ambedkar University (A central university) Vidya Vihar, Raebareli Road, Lucknow (UP) during the season, 2022-2023. The experimental materials for the present investigation was consisted of 10 treatment combinations laid out in Randomized Block Design and replicated thrice. The ascorbic acid of radish were ranged from significantly higher ascorbic acid of radish was observed with the application of NPK 50% + Vermicompost @2 tons/ha in T5 followed by T7 with the application of NPK (50%) + Poultry Manure (50%) -1.5 tons/ha and the minimum ascorbic acid of radish in T1. T.S.S. of radish were ranged from significantly higher T.S.S. of radish was observed with the application of NPK 50% + Vermicompost @2 tons/ha in T5 followed by T7 with the application of NPK (50%) + Poultry Manure (50%) -1.5 tons/ha and the minimum T.S.S of radish in T1.The total sugars in radish exhibited a considerable range, with a notably higher concentration observed when applying NPK 50% + Vermicompost at a rate of 2 tons/ha in T5. Following this, T7, with the application of NPK (50%) + Poultry Manure (50%) at 1.5 tons/ha, also displayed a significantly elevated total sugar content. Conversely, the minimum total sugars in radish were recorded in T1.','Integrated Nutrient Management, quality, Vermicompost, Poultry Manure, NPK','On the basis of result obtained from the present investigation it can be concluded that foliar application of NPK 50% + Vermicompost @2tons/ha. was found most effective with respect to vegetative growth maximum and root yield of radish can be recommended to farmers for commercial cultivation of radish (Raphanus sativus L.) cv. Japanese White under the Lucknow condition.','-','Shivraj Yadav, Rajesh Kumar Meena, Kuldeep Hariyana, Gajendra Chawla, M.L. Meena and Sagar Saini (2023). Effect of Integrated Nutrient Management on Quality of Radish (Raphanus sativus L.) cv. Japanese White. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 15(10): 962-964.'),(7809,'168','Utilization of Agro-Industrial based Polysaccharides waste for Microbial Production of Prebiotics: A Review','Laxmi Kant Pandey, Tanim Arpit Singh, Ranjan Singh, Ajit Kumar Passari, Trashi Singh, Prabhash Kumar Pandey and Neeraj Khare','Utilization-of-Agro-Industrial-based-Polysaccharides-waste-for-Microbial-Production-of-Prebiotics-A-Review-Ajit-Kumar-Passari-173.pdf','',1,'Prebiotics are non-digestible short-chain carbohydrates that could be used to selectively stimulate the growth of some groups of beneficial bacteria in the colon. There are a varied number of microorganisms (mainly bacteria and fungus) used for the production of prebiotics. The agricultural activities produce immense amount of waste matter which needs proper disposal for environmental safety and balance. It has been noted that majority of agricultural residue comprise of lignocellulose, proteins, polysaccharides and polyphenols which can be converted into commercially valuable products by the action of microbes and microbial enzymes. These valuable compounds can be in the form of prebiotics that can be consumed by humans for better health and lifestyle. \r\nIn recent times, the production of prebiotics from agro-industrial by-products is under examination. The agro-industrial residues majorly include polysaccharides which exhibit their potential as prebiotics. These polysaccharides can be utilized as a substrate by the human gut microbiota, converting it into prebiotics for improved health. Along with this, the use of agricultural by-products is advantageous as it is available in abundance at low cost. Currently, majority of agricultural waste is burnt or discarded in the landfill leading to large scale environmental pollution and barren lands. This waste can be valorized into commercially important products that can not only help in the economical growth, but also reduce environmental degradation. The present review article focuses on the production of prebiotics by microbes using agricultural residues as substrate.\r\n','Prebiotics, Lactobacillus species, Gut microbiota, Polysaccharides, Agro-industrial','The administration of prebiotics promotes beneficial effects on human health. These have been used as complementary treatments for intestinal diseases since they are capable of competing with pathogenic microorganisms in addition to activating the cells of the immune system. It is also important to consider that the unbalance or lack of these microorganisms has been linked to the risk of suffering from obesity, diabetes, and some types of cancer. Nowadays, we know the effects of certain species of bacteria that have beneficial effects on human health and that the balance of these can influence the maintenance of homeostasis. This type of microorganism, therefore, should be included in diets frequently to achieve it.','-','Laxmi Kant Pandey, Tanim Arpit Singh, Ranjan Singh, Ajit Kumar Passari, Trashi Singh, Prabhash Kumar Pandey and Neeraj Khare (2023). Utilization of Agro-Industrial based Polysaccharides waste for Microbial Production of Prebiotics: A Review. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 15(10): 955-961.'),(7810,'168','Effect of Integrated Nutrient Management on Quality of Radish \r\n(Raphanus sativus L.) cv. Japanese White\r\n','Shivraj Yadav, Rajesh Kumar Meena, Kuldeep Hariyana, Gajendra Chawla, M.L. Meena and Sagar Saini ','Effect-of-Integrated-Nutrient-Management-on-Quality-of-Radish-(Raphanus-sativus-L.)-cv.-Japanese-White-Rajesh-Kumar-Meena-174.pdf','',1,'The present investigation entitled “Effect of Integrated Nutrient Management on quality of Radish (Raphanus sativus L.) cv. Japanese White” was carried out the Horticultural Research Farm-1, Department of Horticulture, Babasaheb Bhimrao Ambedkar University (A central university) Vidya Vihar, Raebareli Road, Lucknow (UP) during the season, 2022-2023. The experimental materials for the present investigation was consisted of 10 treatment combinations laid out in Randomized Block Design and replicated thrice. The ascorbic acid of radish were ranged from significantly higher ascorbic acid of radish was observed with the application of NPK 50% + Vermicompost @2 tons/ha in T5 followed by T7 with the application of NPK (50%) + Poultry Manure (50%) -1.5 tons/ha and the minimum ascorbic acid of radish in T1. T.S.S. of radish were ranged from significantly higher T.S.S. of radish was observed with the application of NPK 50% + Vermicompost @2 tons/ha in T5 followed by T7 with the application of NPK (50%) + Poultry Manure (50%) -1.5 tons/ha and the minimum T.S.S of radish in T1.The total sugars in radish exhibited a considerable range, with a notably higher concentration observed when applying NPK 50% + Vermicompost at a rate of 2 tons/ha in T5. Following this, T7, with the application of NPK (50%) + Poultry Manure (50%) at 1.5 tons/ha, also displayed a significantly elevated total sugar content. Conversely, the minimum total sugars in radish were recorded in T1.','Integrated Nutrient Management, quality, Vermicompost, Poultry Manure, NPK','On the basis of result obtained from the present investigation it can be concluded that foliar application of NPK 50% + Vermicompost @2tons/ha. was found most effective with respect to vegetative growth maximum and root yield of radish can be recommended to farmers for commercial cultivation of radish (Raphanus sativus L.) cv. Japanese White under the Lucknow condition.','-','Shivraj Yadav, Rajesh Kumar Meena, Kuldeep Hariyana, Gajendra Chawla, M.L. Meena and Sagar Saini (2023). Effect of Integrated Nutrient Management on Quality of Radish (Raphanus sativus L.) cv. Japanese White. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 15(10): 962-964.'),(7811,'168','Molecular Detection and Partial Characterization of Begomovirus Associated Yellow Mosaic virus Disease of Soyabean (Glycine max L.)','Y.B. Naveesh, H.A. Prameela, N. Sagar, S. Basavaraj, N. Nagaraju and K.T. Rangaswamy ','Molecular-Detection-and-Partial-characterization-of-begomovirus-Associated-Yellow-Mosaic-virus-Disease-of-Soyabean-(Glycine-max L.)-YB-Naveesh-175.pdf','',1,'The study\'s primary aim was to explore the molecular connection between the virus responsible for soybean yellow mosaic disease and related viruses. Symptoms of the disease involve yellowing leaves, leaf rolling and stunted growth in infected plants. Specific degenerate primers for begomoviruses were utilized to detect the causative virus. Gene fragments, measuring 1000bp for the coat protein and 900bp for the movement protein, were amplified from both naturally infected and whitefly-inoculated plants. Comparative analysis of the virus\'s CP gene sequence with other begomoviruses showcased clustering with horse gram yellow mosaic virus (HgYMV) segments from a horse gram isolate and an HgYMV isolate from India, Bangalore, infecting French beans, sharing a 98 per cent similarity, respectively. Similarly, when assessing the virus\'s MP gene sequence against other begomoviruses, it clustered with Horsegram yellow mosaic virus segments from a horse gram isolate and the HgYMV isolate from India, Bangalore, which infects French beans, showing a 99 per cent similarity, respectively. Consequently, the findings distinctly reveal that the yellow mosaic virus infecting soybeans is closely related to the one infecting horse gram and French beans, leading to its recognition as a strain of horse gram yellow mosaic virus (HgYMV).','Soyabean, Begomovirus, PCR, coat protein, movement protein, Molecular Characterization','The scrutiny of soybean yellow mosaic virus (SYMV) and its relation to other begomoviruses offers crucial insights into their genetic diversity and classification. The study highlighted the close genetic kinship between SYMV isolates from Bengaluru and Horse gram yellow mosaic virus (HgYMV), especially evident in the coat protein (CP) and movement protein (MP) gene sequences. This distinction underscores SYMV\'s unique nature and its divergence from other legume-affecting yellow mosaic viruses. Additionally, the presence of diverse begomovirus groups with their unique genetic profiles emphasizes the role of recombination in generating their variability. These revelations deepen our comprehension of begomovirus genetic diversity and their impact on soybean farming, notably in areas afflicted by yellow mosaic disease.','-','Y.B. Naveesh, H.A. Prameela, N. Sagar, S. Basavaraj, N. Nagaraju and K.T. Rangaswamy (2023). Molecular Detection and Partial characterization of begomovirus Associated Yellow Mosaic virus Disease of Soyabean (Glycine max L.). Biological Forum – An International Journal, 15(10): 965-969.'),(7812,'168','Demonstration of CRISPR/Cas9-mediated PDS gene editing and Possibility of enhancing Shelf Life of Commercially Important Tomato variety','Sumedha Arora, Prashant Mohanpuria and Salesh Kumar Jindal ','Demonstration-of-CRISPRCas9-mediated-PDS-gene-editing-and-Possibility-of-enhancing-Shelf-Life-of-Commercially-Important-Tomato-varietya-Arora-S-176.pdf','',1,'CRISPR/Cas9 has been a popular tool for introducing precise mutations at the target site among different crop species to improve several required traits beneficial to farmers and breeders worldwide. Tomato is a model vegetable crop belonging to the family Solanaceae. Here in present study, the phytoene desaturase (PDS) gene from tomato was edited using CRISPR/Cas9 technique. The PDS gene is involved in carotenoid biosynthesis pathway and its editing would lead to albinism in plants. The sgRNA for PDS gene was designed and introduced into tomato system through leaf-disc method leading to precise mutation at target loci. The editing at desired loci was detected in 20 % of the To transgenic tomato plants. Rigorous screening and confirmation are always necessary for detecting true CRISPR edits. For screening of the PDS gene editing, first the T-DNA integration was confirmed through PCR. These plants were further analysed for mutation detection and analysis through Cel-1 assay and Sanger sequencing. About 2 bp deletion was observed in mutated plants at 3-4 bp upstream of PAM site at target loci. The editing of PDS confirmed that the technique can be successfully applied further for editing of Pectate lyase gene in commercially important tomato varieties for enhancing shelf life, which is a complex trait governed by a number of different genes and thus, a real challenge.','Phytoene desaturase, tomato, CRISPR/Cas9, Shelf life, Pectate lyase','CRISPR/Cas9 technique has become voguish because of its adaptability, low cost, and versatility. Using modest constructs, we demonstrated the efficiency of this technique in editing PDS gene of tomatoes. To test the efficacy of this technique, the CRISPR edited albino tomato plants with complete or partial loss of PDS gene function were produced. This successful demonstration of the PDS gene of tomatoes has served as a basis for editing another target gene such as PL (for enhancing shelf life) in other tomato commercial varieties. We have explored the PL target gene from different tomato varieties and CRISPR/Cas9 constructs have been prepared using the PL gene. ','-','Sumedha Arora, Prashant Mohanpuria and Salesh Kumar Jindal (2023). Demonstration of CRISPR/Cas9-mediated PDS gene editing and Possibility of enhancing Shelf Life of Commercially Important Tomato variety. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 15(10): 970-975.'),(7813,'168','Preserving Indigenous Traditional Knowledge (ITK): Documentation of Agricultural and Household Practices in Hisale Village, Maharashtra','K.V. Patil, Shivam Mahajan, Jayesh Wadile, Poonam Patil, Atul Girase and Rajap Shivakumar','Preserving-Indigenous-Traditional-Knowledge-(ITK)-Documentation-of-Agricultural-and-Household-Practices-in-Hisale-Village,-Maharashtra-KV-Patil-177.pdf','',1,'The sustainability of indigenous people\' sustainable practices and cultural heritage depend on the preservation of their technological knowledge. This abstract explores the passing down of generational traditional knowledge and practices using a case study in Hisale Village. It seeks to record, preserve, and advance indigenous technical abilities, including knowledge of medicinal plants, artisanal workmanship, and agricultural methods. The study faces obstacles along the way, including the impending danger of cultural deterioration and outside pressures. In addition, it talks about how important it is to incorporate contemporary preservation techniques like digital archiving and knowledge sharing throughout generations to guarantee the survival of indigenous technological knowledge from Hisale Village for upcoming generations. This study recognizes the need of preserving the wide range of indigenous wisdom that adds to global biodiversity and cultural diversity, and it serves as a model for similar efforts worldwide.','ITK, Documentation, Agriculture, Household','In conclusion, our research in Hisale village, Shirpur tahsil, highlights the invaluable indigenous technical knowledge that exists within this community. This knowledge represents a vital resource for both the community and the broader society, offering insights into sustainable practices, biodiversity conservation, and cultural preservation. It is evident that the indigenous knowledge of Hisale village is a dynamic and adaptive system that has evolved over generations. As our findings demonstrate, this knowledge can provide innovative solutions to contemporary challenges, such as climate change, food security, and healthcare. However, it is essential to recognize the need for the ethical and respectful engagement of indigenous communities in research and knowledge-sharing processes. Our study underscores the importance of acknowledging the intellectual property rights of indigenous knowledge holders and ensuring their active participation in decision-making related to the use and dissemination of their knowledge.','-','K.V. Patil, Shivam Mahajan, Jayesh Wadile, Poonam Patil, Atul Girase and Rajap Shivakumar (2023). Preserving Indigenous Traditional Knowledge (ITK): Documentation of Agricultural and Household Practices in Hisale Village, Maharashtra. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 15(10): 976-979.'),(7814,'168','To Determine the Marketing System of Fish in Purnea, North Eastern Bihar, India','Suday Prasad, D.N. Choudhary and Sushant Bhanu ','To-Determine-the-Marketing-System-of-Fish-in-Purnea,-North-Eastern-Bihar,-India-Suday-Prasad-178.pdf','',1,'The study was conducted on the fish marketing system of Purnea district over a duration of two years (January, 2021 to December, 2022). The usually higher demand for fish and unavailability of market infrastructure including storage facilities was the major challenges for fish marketing in Purnea, Bihar. The survey of famous fish markets was designed to have a depiction, direct observation and personal interview technique applied to an objective record marketing system in Purnea, Bihar India. The paper agreements with the present fish market structure, marketing channel, fish price, demand and other factors influence the fish marketing system. Results indicated that the fish seller, four type of fish (Indigenous, live, small and exotic fish) estimate 21900 ton / year were sold, where 70 % of fishes (15330 tons / year) were came from the local wetland (capture & culture fisheries) and rest 30 % (6570 tons / year) fish imported from other states like West Bengal and Andhra Pradesh. The chain of fish markets from producer to retailer goes through a number of intermediaries, whereas the price of fish is influenced by fish species, size and weight of fish. Live fish (IMC) have a higher price (Rs: 200-300 / kg) in the market and imported fish from other states (iced fish), price was lesser than local fish. Four types of marketing channels were identified and there was also involved fisherwomen in the fish marketing system in these areas. According to estimates Indian Major Carps (IMC) make up 25 % fish sold in marketplaces, whereas, 15 % exotic carps & catfishes, 10 % others carps, 7 % live fishes, 5 % snake-head fishes & small indigenous fishes, 3 % freshwater prawn and shrimps, 02 % Hilsa, and 13 % others including tilapia, chingri and marine fishes were also sold in the markets. The study revealed the problem of fish seller during marketing time, market facilities etc are briefly discussed in the paper. ','Fish transportation, marketing channel, aquaculture, wetland, Purnea','The study concludes that four types of marketing channels were identified and there was also involved fisherwomen in the fish marketing system in these areas. According to estimates Indian Major Carps (IMC) make up 25 % fish sold in marketplaces, whereas, 15 % exotic carps & catfishes, 10 % others carps, 7 % live fishes, 5 % snake-head fishes & small indigenous fishes, 3 % freshwater prawn and shrimps, 02 % Hilsa, and 13 % others including tilapia, chingri and marine fishes were also sold in the markets. ','-','Suday Prasad, D.N. Choudhary and Sushant Bhanu (2023). To Determine the Marketing System of Fish in Purnea, North Eastern Bihar, India. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 15(10): 980-985.'),(7815,'168','Avian Fauna of Pong Dam Lake Wildlife Sanctuary, Himachal Pradesh, India','M.L. Thakur, Anuradha Sharma and H.S. Banyal','Avian-Fauna-of-Pong-Dam-Lake-Wildlife-Sanctuary,-Himachal-Pradesh,-India-ML-Thakur-179.pdf','',4,'Avifaunal studies in Pong Dam Lake Wildlife Sanctuary showed a total of 225 species of birds spread over 150 genera, 54 families and 17 orders. Of these, 131 were observed to be seasonal local migrants, 31 species were assessed to be purely residents, 84 as seasonal-local migrants, 1 showed summer influx, 15 species showed winters influx. In addition, another 94 species, in Pong area, were reported to be long range migrants, including 17 summer visitors and 77 winter visitors. Moreover, categorization of the avifaunal diversity in to various abundance categories revealed that there were 118 very common species, 63 common species, 29 uncommon species and 15 rare species. The study revealed that Pong Dam, a medium sized wetland, falling on the Central Asian Flyway, is one of the important wintering and staging grounds for a number of migratory waterbirds. Therefore, stakeholder interventions are urgently needed to ensure conservation of an enormous range of biological diversity, particularly the avifauna.','Avian fauna, Pong Dam Lake Wildlife Sanctuary, relative abundance, residential status',' The study revealed that Pong Dam, a medium sized wetland, falling on the Central Asian Flyway, is one of the important wintering and staging grounds for a number of migratory waterbirds. The present study recorded 225 species of birds spread over 54 families, including 77 winter visitors, many of them moving along Central Asian Flyway. The study further showed that the wetland not only harbors important winter migrants, but also supports 17 summer visitors. There is an urgent conservation attention in view of the presence of 118 very common species and 15 rare species of birds. The Wetland faces several threats including encroachments for illegal wheat farming. Therefore, interventions on part of various stakeholders are needed to ensure conservation of an enormous range of biological diversity, particularly the avifauna.','-','M.L. Thakur, Anuradha Sharma and H.S. Banyal (2023). Avian Fauna of Pong Dam Lake Wildlife Sanctuary, Himachal Pradesh, India. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 15(10): 986-994.'),(7816,'157','Avian Fauna of Pong Dam Lake Wildlife Sanctuary, Himachal Pradesh, India','M.L. Thakur, Anuradha and H.S. Banyal','Avian-Fauna-of-Pong-Dam-Lake-Wildlife-Sanctuary,-Himachal-Pradesh,-India-ML-Thakur-263.pdf','',1,'Avifaunal studies in Pong Dam Lake Wildlife Sanctuary showed a total of 225 species of birds spread over 150 genera, 54 families and 17 orders. Of these, 131 were observed to be seasonal local migrants, 31 species were assessed to be purely residents, 84 as seasonal-local migrants, 1 showed summer influx, 15 species showed winters influx. In addition, another 94 species, in Pong area, were reported to be long range migrants, including 17 summer visitors and 77 winter visitors. Moreover, categorization of the avifaunal diversity in to various abundance categories revealed that there were 118 very common species, 63 common species, 29 uncommon species and 15 rare species. The study revealed that Pong Dam, a medium sized wetland, falling on the Central Asian Flyway, is one of the important wintering and staging grounds for a number of migratory waterbirds. Therefore, stakeholder interventions are urgently needed to ensure conservation of an enormous range of biological diversity, particularly the avifauna.','Avian fauna, Pong Dam Lake Wildlife Sanctuary, relative abundance, residential status.','The study revealed that Pong Dam, a medium sized wetland, falling on the Central Asian Flyway, is one of the important wintering and staging grounds for a number of migratory waterbirds. The present study recorded 225 species of birds spread over 54 families, including 77 winter visitors, many of them moving along Central Asian Flyway. The study further showed that the wetland not only harbors important winter migrants, but also supports 17 summer visitors. There is an urgent conservation attention in view of the presence of 118 very common species and 15 rare species of birds. The Wetland faces several threats including encroachments for illegal wheat farming. Therefore, interventions on part of various stakeholders are needed to ensure conservation of an enormous range of biological diversity, particularly the avifauna.','-','M.L. Thakur, Anuradha and H.S. Banyal (2023). Avian Fauna of Pong Dam Lake Wildlife Sanctuary, Himachal Pradesh, India. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 15(5): 1758-1766.'),(7817,'168','The Role of Chitosan and Silixol in Regulating Canopy Temperature and Leaf Area in Sugarcane under Drought Stress','Vinay Hegde, T.H. Rathod, R.B. Ghorade, S. D. Jadhao, R. D. Walke and Kantilal Chande ','The-Role-of-Chitosan-and-Silixol-in-Regulating-Canopy-Temperature-and-Leaf-Area-in-Sugarcane-under-Drought-Stress-Vinay-Hegde-179.pdf','',1,'Climate change has augmented abiotic stresses on crops, particularly through increased instances of water stress, which pose significant threats to the cultivation of commercial crops such as sugarcane. The sensitivity of sugarcane to drought stress emphasizes to formulate effective and scalable strategies such as, application of biostimulants to ensure the resilience and sustainability of sugarcane cultivation under stress conditions. In this study, we evaluated the efficacy of bio stimulants in mitigating the adverse effects of drought on sugarcane, focusing on two key parameters: canopy temperature and leaf area. The experimental treatments include control, stress, stress with irradiated chitosan (0.1%), non-irradiated chitosan (0.5%), and silixol (0.03%), measuring the responses at 30, 60, 90, and 120 days after planting in sugarcane seedlings. Our findings revealed that drought stress elevated canopy temperature and reduced leaf area in sugarcane seedlings. However, the application of biostimulants, particularly silixol, effectively counteracted these effects. Irradiated chitosan (0.1%) and non-irradiated chitosan (0.5%) also significantly mitigated these adverse impacts. This study demonstrates the significant potential of biostimulants, such as silixol and chitosan, in reducing canopy temperature and minimizing leaf area reduction in sugarcane under drought conditions. This study provides valuable insights into the efficacy of biostimulants, particularly silixol and chitosan, in mitigating drought-induced stress on sugarcane. These findings emphasize the promising role of biostimulants in promoting sustainable agricultural practices in the face of changing global climate patterns.','Biostimulants, sugarcane, water stress, canopy temperature','This study investigated the role of biostimulants in modulating canopy temperature and leaf area in sugarcane under drought stress. The findings provide compelling evidence that biostimulants can significantly mitigate the effects of water stress. Specifically, the application of irradiated chitosan (0.1%) led to a marked reduction in canopy temperature, with a notable difference of approximately 5°C from the peak stress condition at 120 days after planting. Furthermore, the same treatment improved leaf area measurements, with an increase of 122.23 cm² compared to the stress plants at 120 days after planting. The application of biostimulants, especially irradiated chitosan and silixol, exhibited promising results in enhancing the drought resilience of sugarcane. These treatments maintained lower canopy temperatures and higher leaf areas compared to plants under stress. These results suggest that biostimulants enhance the plant\'s physiological resilience to drought, potentially through mechanisms that improve water use efficiency, maintain cellular function, and support growth under stress conditions. These findings suggest that biostimulants could play a crucial role in the adaptive strategies for sugarcane cultivation underdrought stress. ','-','Vinay Hegde, T.H. Rathod, R.B. Ghorade, S. D. Jadhao, R. D. Walke and Kantilal Chande (2023). The Role of Chitosan and Silixol in Regulating Canopy Temperature and Leaf Area in Sugarcane under Drought Stress. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 15(10): 986-989.'),(7818,'148','Correlation Analysis of some Morpho-Physiological Parameters, Yield and Quality attributes of Chilli (Capsicum annuum L.)','A. Ghosh, D. Panda and S. Mondal','Correlation-Analysis-of-some-Morpho-Physiological-Parameters,-Yield-and-Quality-attributes-of-Chilli-(Capsicum-annuum-L.)-D-Panda-120.pdf','',1,'A field experiment was conducted during the Rabi season of 2015-16 and 2016-17 to study the effect of micronutrients and growth regulators on growth, physiology, yield, and quality attributes of chilli. Five levels each of different micronutrients (Control, 0.1% ZnSO4, 0.2% ZnSO4, 0.1% H3BO4 and 0.2% H3BO4) and growth regulators (Control, 0.5 ppm 28-Homobrassinolide, 1 ppm 28-Homobrasinolide, 10 ppm Putrescine, 20 ppm Putrescine) were used for foliar application to chilli plants. Simple correlation coefficient of different growth and physiological parameters, yield and quality attributes indicated that most of the morpho-physiological parameters of chilli viz., plant height, number of branches per plant, dry matter accumulation, LAI, CGR, RWC, chlorophyll a, chlorophyll b and total chlorophyll fruit length, fruit diameter, number of fruits per plant, number of seeds per fruit had significant positive content of leaves had significant correlation with fruit yield indicating their importance in yield determination. The result further revealed the quality parameters such as ascorbic acid content of fruit (mg/100g), capsaicin content (%), oleoresin content (%) of fruits were positively correlated with yield and yield attributes. Overall, it is logical to conclude that number of fruits per plant, CGR, total chlorophyll content, dry matter accumulation are the major contributors towards fruit yield since these characters had high correlation. The selection of these characters should be major concern for increased yield of chilli.','Chilli, Correlation, growth, physiological parameters, quality parameters, yield','The morpho-physiological parameters, quality attributes and yield attributes of chilli were found to be significantly and positively correlated with fruit yield. Overall, as these traits showed strong correlation, it can be concluded that fruit yield of chilli is mostly influenced by the number of fruits per plant, CGR, total chlorophyll content, and dry matter accumulation. Selection of these traits with higher correlation should be a top priority for achieving higher fruit yield of chilli. ','-','A. Ghosh, D. Panda and S. Mondal (2023). Correlation Analysis of Some Morpho-Physiological Parameters, Yield and Quality attributes of Chilli (Capsicum annuum L.). Biological Forum – An International Journal, 15(10): 732-736.'),(7819,'149','Morpho-Physiological & Biochemical Basis of Regulation of Plant Growth by Polyamines: An Overview of Recent Trends','Debasish Panda','Morpho-Physiological-&-Biochemical-Basis-of-Regulation-of-Plant-Growth-by-Polyamines-An-Overview-of-Recent-Trends-D-Panda-200.pdf','',1,'Polyamines (PAs) play a crucial role in the physiological and biochemical regulation of plant growth. These small, organic molecules, including putrescine (Put), spermidine (Spd), and spermine (Spm), are essential for various cellular processes. They interact with DNA, RNA, proteins, and membranes to affect plant growth. Polyamines are crucial for general growth and development because they play a role in cell division, differentiation, and elongation. These bioactive compounds are actively involved in germination of seeds, shoot and root growth, flowering, and reproductive growth of plants. They contribute to abiotic stress tolerance stress of plant to withstand adverse environmental conditions. Polyamines also act as signaling molecules, modulating gene expression and enzyme activities. Their crosstalk with other growth regulators modulates plant growth and physiology. They are intricately involved in cellular and molecular processes to regulate plant growth and development. Understanding their physiological and biochemical functions provides valuable insights for optimizing agricultural practices and enhancing crop yield.','PAs, physiological, biochemical, growth regulation, development','Polyamines play integral role in plant growth regulation, impacting various physiological and biochemical processes. These bioactive compounds have the potential for field use and are also known to protect plants from a variety of biotic and abiotic challenges. Understanding their roles at the molecular level can open avenues for targeted manipulation of polyamine metabolism for crop improvement and stress tolerance.','-','Debasish Panda (2023). Morpho-Physiological & Biochemical Basis of Regulation of Plant Growth by Polyamines: An Overview of Recent Trends. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 15(2): 1300-1307.'),(7820,'168','Biorational Management of Gram Pod Borer, Helicoverpa armigera (Hubner) Infesting Chickpea','Sheetal Kumawat, Shankar Lal Sharma, Heera Kumari, B.L. Naga, Maya Choudhary, R.K. Meena and Arvind','Biorational-Management-of-Gram-Pod-Borer,-Helicoverpa-armigera-(Hubner)-Infesting-Chickpea-Sheetal-Kumawat-180.pdf','',1,'Chickpea is susceptible to a wide variety of insect pests, among which the gram caterpillar Helicoverpa armigera is a prominent adversary. Presently, farmers predominantly depend on pesticides as their primary method of controlling this pest. As pesticides are associated with numerous environmental risks, there is a growing emphasis on the significance of biorational products. The study aimed to evaluate the effectiveness of various biorational insecticides in controlling the infestation of the gram pod borer (Helicoverpa armigera, Hubner) in chickpea crop. As pesticides result in many environmental hazards, biorational products are given importance. In this study Malathion 50 EC (standard check), Spinosad 45 SC, Emamectin benzoate 5 SG, Neem oil 1%, Karanj oil 1%, NSKE 5%, Azadirachtin 0.03 EC, HaNPV 250LE, and Papaya leaf extract 5%5% were evaluated against H. armigera in chickpea in 2021-22. Incidence of H. armigera was significantly less in Malathion 50 EC (91.94%) followed by Spinosad 45 SC (82.24%), and Emamectin benzoate SG (78.75%). However, the Papaya leaf extract 5%treatment was the least effective options, showing a significantly lower reduction in larval population compared to other insecticides. The maximum seed yield of 15.78 q/ ha was recorded in Malathion 50 EC followed by Spinosad 45 EC and Emamectin benzoate 5 SG, 14.97, 13.94 q/ ha, respectively. Among these biorationals Spinosad 45 SC, Emamectin benzoate 5 SG provided the best result with the highest mean percentage larvae reduction and revealed the highest efficacy compared to other treatments, suggesting both Spinosad 45 SC and Emamectin benzoate 5 SG both might be used to manage H. armigera borer effectively.','Bioefficacy, Biorational, Gram pod borer, HaNPV 250LE, Karanj oil, NSKE 5%, Spinosad 45 SC','The maximum seed yield (Table 2) was obtained in the treatment of Malathion 50 EC (15.78 q ha-1), followed by Spinosad 45 EC (14.97 q ha-1). The higher seed yield was also obtained in the treatment of Emamectin benzoate 5 SG (13.94 q ha-1), followed by Neem oil 1% (13.05 q ha-1) and Karanj oil 1% (12.96 q ha-1). The minimum seed yield of 12.50 q ha-1 and 11.96 q ha-1 was obtained in the treatments of NSKE 5% and Azadirachtin 0.03 EC, respectively. The least seed yield of 11.49 q ha-1 was obtained in the treatment of HaNPV 250LE, followed by Papaya leaf extract 5% (10.09 q ha-1).','-','Sheetal Kumawat, Shankar Lal Sharma, Heera Kumari, B.L. Naga, Maya Choudhary, R.K. Meena and Arvind (2023). Biorational Management of Gram Pod Borer, Helicoverpa armigera (Hubner) Infesting Chickpea. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 15(10): 990-994.'),(7821,'168','Decoding Pratylenchus thornei: Reproductive Insights in Carrot Disc Culture and Bioagent Efficacy for Precision Chickpea Nematode Management','Vedant Gautam, Ashish Kumar, R Shivram Krishnan, Stuti Sharma, Radheshyam Sharma, Vibhootee Garg, Sonu Sharma, Sanjay Kharte, Rajkumar Bajya and Ravi Nagar','Decoding-Pratylenchus-thornei-Reproductive-Insights-in-Carrot-Disc-Culture-and-Bioagent-Efficacy-for-Precision-Chickpea-Nematode-Management-Vedant-Gautam-181.pdf','',1,'This research delves into the reproductive behavior of Pratylenchus thornei in carrot disc culture, explores its vertical distribution in soil, and evaluates the effectiveness of various bioagents in mitigating nematode impact in chickpea cultivation. In carrot disc culture, the study reveals a maximum reproductive fitness of 19.56 fold after 40 days of inoculation, accompanied by a final nematode population of 489, comprising 84 females, 244 juveniles, and 161 eggs. Contrastingly, a minimum nematode population of 94 was observed after 20 days, with a reproductive fitness of 3.76. Extending the incubation period from 35 to 40 days yielded the highest reproductive rate, a pattern consistent with studies on P. neglectus and P. zeae in carrot disc cultures. Evaluation of bioagents for nematode management demonstrated their overall effectiveness, with Purpureocillium lilacinum exhibiting maximum efficacy. Utilizing this bioagent as seed treatment in JG 62 chickpea variety resulted in a final nematode population of 18.65 per 500 cc soil, 7.13 nematodes per gram of root, and a maximum plant height of 11.3. Similar efficacy was reported for T. harzianum and P. lilacinum in other studies, potentially attributed to the activation of defense genes. In conclusion, this study not only provides insights into the reproductive dynamics and vertical distribution of P. thornei but also underscores the promising potential of bioagents, particularly Purpureocillium lilacinum, for effective nematode management in chickpea cultivation.','Pratylenchus thornei, Carrot disc culture, Bioagents, Nematode management, Purpureocillium lilacinum','In this study, the reproductive dynamics of Pratylenchus thornei in carrot disc culture, its vertical distribution in soil, and the efficacy of bioagents in chickpea nematode management were thoroughly investigated. Carrot disc culture experiments revealed significant variations in reproductive fitness over different incubation periods, with a maximum fold increase of 19.56 observed after 40 days. The vertical distribution of P. thornei in soil showed a peak population at 12-16 cm depth, emphasizing the impact of chickpea cultivation practices on nematode presence. Evaluation of bioagents demonstrated their effectiveness, with Purpureocillium lilacinum exhibiting maximum efficacy in reducing nematode populations in soil and roots.','-','Vedant Gautam, Ashish Kumar, R Shivram Krishnan, Stuti Sharma, Radheshyam Sharma, Vibhootee Garg, Sonu Sharma, Sanjay Kharte, Rajkumar Bajya and Ravi Nagar (2023). Decoding Pratylenchus thornei: Reproductive Insights in Carrot Disc Culture and Bioagent Efficacy for Precision Chickpea Nematode Management. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 15(10): 995-1000.'),(7822,'168','Quality Evaluation of Ready-to-Cook Marinated and Enrobed Chicken Drumsticks at Frozen Storage','M. Muthulakshmi, R. Rajkumar, K. Rajendra Kumar, B. Karthik, R. Ilavarasan, A.S. Sobana and R. Subash','Quality-Evaluation-of-Ready-to-Cook-Marinated-and-Enrobed-Chicken-Drumsticks-at-Frozen-Storage-M-Muthulakshmi-182.pdf','',1,'In India, poultry is one of the fastest-growing agricultural sector. The growth in the broiler segment is expected to remain strong due to consumer preference for chicken meat, increasing income levels, and changing food habits. The development of the meat processing industry causes a change in consumer lifestyles and preferences. Our lifestyle habits have shifted toward ready-to-cook products due to the ease of cooking they offer and consumers are not satisfied with traditional meat products. Marinated chicken and enrobed chicken meat is a popular product among consumers. The present study was conducted to evaluate the quality of ready-to-cook marinated and enrobed chicken drumsticks at frozen storage. The quality parameters like physicochemical, microbiological and sensory evaluation were analysed on 0 day and 15, 30, 45 and 60 days under frozen storage at-18±0˚C. Marinated and enrobed chicken drumsticks samples were prepared and packaged in a Polyvinyl chloride tray. It was observed that during frozen storage, pH, TBARS Value and tyrosine value were increased significantly (P<0.05). The shear force value between 0 day and during storage days showed a significant (P<0.05) difference. There was a significant (P<0.05) difference in total plate count (TPC), Psychrophilic count (PC) and yeast and mould count (YMC) during storage of ready-to-cook marinated and enrobed chicken drumsticks. During storage periods at frozen storage, the TPC decreased while the psychrophilic counts increased. E. coli and Salmonella counts were not detected during entire storage period. The analysis of variance between the storage days exhibited significant (P<0.05) difference for sensory scores viz., appearance & colour, flavour, texture, crispiness and coating adhesion, juiciness, and overall acceptability. Based on the findings, it was concluded that at frozen storage ready-to-cook marinated and enrobed chicken drumsticks could be stored for up to 60 days without any deteriorative changes.','Chicken meat, chicken drumsticks, quality evaluation, frozen storage and convenient meat products','From this study, frozen storage of ready-to-cook marinated and enrobed chicken drumsticks would be recommended in order to preserve physico-chemical, microbiological and sensory qualities for up to 60 days. However, it was accompanied by good handling processes and maintained at hygienic conditions.','-','M. Muthulakshmi, R. Rajkumar, K. Rajendra Kumar, B. Karthik, R. Ilavarasan, A.S. Sobana and R. Subash (2023). Quality Evaluation of Ready-to-Cook Marinated and Enrobed Chicken Drumsticks at Frozen Storage. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 15(10): 1001-1005.'),(7823,'168','Nesting Behaviour and Breeding Success in Indian Robin in Semi-urban Area of Himalayan Foothills','Garima Singh, Kalpana Chaudhary, Sachin Kumar and Gaurav Sharma','Nesting-Behaviour-and-Breeding-Success-in-Indian-Robin-in-Semi-urban-Area-of-Himalayan-Foothills-Garima-Singh-183.pdf','',1,'Indian robin (Copshychus fulicatus L.) prefer fragmented, degraded, mixed forest patches with scattered settlements in semi-urban areas. Breeding season initiated by the first fortnight of March with the onset of singing by territorial males. Breeding behaviour of total 54 individuals was observed during March 2021 to August 2023 with post-breeding dispersal behaviour in Himalayan foothills, valley area of Dehradun, India. Nest building period was observed 11.31± 1.08 days, both sexes participated in nest formation and parental caring. Nests were made up of thin twigs with fine inner lining, having a shallow cup shaped structure. Four type of nest were observed based on the morphological parameters labelled as: Type-I, Type-2, Type-3, and Type-4. Significant differences were observed among the nest types for all measured parameters, as indicated by highly significant p-values (p ≤ 0.001). Clutch size and number of brood were 3.34 ± 0.14 eggs and 2-4 respectively. Incubation was performed by only female individuals, while males were seen guarding the nest during incubation phase. Average incubation period was about 11.99 ± 0.26 days with hatching success 81 % and the young ones fledged in 13.09 ± 0.30 days.','Nesting, Breeding, Hatching Success, Indian Rodin','This study provides valuable insights into the nesting behaviour, nest characteristics, and breeding phases of Indian Robin in Northern India. The results highlight the need for conservation actions to address the declining hatching success and preserve suitable nesting habitats. By understanding the reproductive biology of Indian Robin, we can contribute to their long-term survival and contribute to the broader field of avian ecology and conservation. The examination of nest characteristics provided valuable insights into the nesting behaviour and adaptations of Indian Robin in the selected area of Northern India. In generally birds of a species make almost same type of nests however some anomalies could be observed.','-','Garima Singh, Kalpana Chaudhary, Sachin Kumar and Gaurav Sharma (2023). Nesting Behaviour and Breeding Success in Indian Robin in Semi-urban Area of Himalayan Foothills. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 15(10): 1006-1010.'),(7824,'168','Influence of Foliar Treatment of Metabolite Elicitors on Plant Growth and Yield Parameters of Turmeric (Curcuma longa L.)','Vamshi Krishna S., Hore J.K., Gowthami D., Luwangshangbam James Singh and Kavya E.','Influence-of-Foliar-Treatment-of-Metabolite-Elicitors-on-Plant-Growth-and-Yield-Parameters-of-Turmeric-(Curcuma-longa-L.)-Vamshi-Krishna-S-184.pdf','',1,'The experiment was conducted at Horticultural Research Station, Mondouri, BCKV, West Bengal, during 2019-2020 and 2020-2021. According to recent research, the application of metabolic elicitors had a major impact on yield and quality. Elicitors like chitosan, salicylic acid and methyl jasmonate, were found to show positive effect on growth, yield and quality in various crops. The ultimate objective of this study is to identify the best elicitor and its concentration for enhancing the production of turmeric. The plants were foliar sprayed with different metabolite elicitors viz., chitosan (250, 500 and 750 ppm), salicylic acid (100, 200 and 300 ppm), proline (50, 100 and 200 ppm) and methyl jasmonate (50, 100 and 200 ppm) at 60, 90, 120 and 150 days after planting (DAP). The plants under control plots were sprayed with distilled water as per the schedule. Significant variations in most of the parameters were observed among different treatments during both the years and in pooled analysis. The plants sprayed with salicylic acid-200 ppm recorded maximum number of tillers (3.47), clump weight (348.81 g), length of primary finger (9.64 cm), breadth of primary finger (2.36 cm), number of secondary fingers (15.35), yield plot-1 (13.26 kg 3m-2), projected yield (33.14 t ha-1), The maximum number of primary fingers (11.57), weight of primary finger (161.45 g) and breadth of secondary finger (1.90 cm) were observed in salicylic acid-100 ppm. The maximum plant height (184.72 cm), number of leaves (20.90) and tiller (3.47) were recorded in salicylic acid-300 ppm. The maximum length of clump (18.88 cm), breadth of clump (16.45 cm), length of secondary finger (4.69 cm), the maximum weight of primary finger (183.90 g) was recorded in methyl jasmonate -100 ppm. ','Turmeric, Elicitors, Foliar treatment, Growth, Yield, Chitosan, Salicylic Acid, Proline, Methyl jasmonate','Considering the yield per plot and projected yield per ha the most effective treatment among different elicitors was salicylic acid 200 ppm followed by salicylic acid 300 ppm and chitosan 750 ppm towards improving the production of turmeric. These two elicitors are proved to be the best when compared to other elicitors on turmeric. at Horticultural Research Station, Mondouri, BCKV, West Bengal. Salicylic acid followed chitosan are affecting more impact on growth and yield parameters. These two elicitors can be suggested to the farmers for higher yields and increasing farmer’s income.','-','Vamshi Krishna S., Hore J.K., Gowthami D., Luwangshangbam James Singh and Kavya E. (2023). Influence of Foliar Treatment of Metabolite Elicitors on Plant Growth and Yield Parameters of Turmeric (Curcuma longa L.). Biological Forum – An International Journal, 15(10): 1011-1016.'),(7825,'168','Evaluating Plant Growth Promoting Abilities of Rhizobium under Moisture Deficit Stress in Horse Gram (Macrotyloma uniflorum Lam. [Verdc.])','Priyadharshini Aaradhana, Shobana Narayanasamy and Sivakumar Uthandi ','Evaluating-Plant-Growth-Promoting-Abilities-of-Rhizobium-under-Moisture-Deficit-Stress-in-Horse-Gram-(Macrotyloma-uniflorum-Lam.-[Verdc.])-Sivakumar-Uthandi-185.pdf','',1,'The horse gram crop is an unexplored legume cultivated in arid and semi-arid regions of India and is well known for its potential to withstand environmental adversities. But it is considered a poor man\'s crop and is grossly underutilized owing to lower yields. Rhizobial cultures isolated from horse gram with plant-growth-promoting potential possess inherent drought tolerance capacity. They can be exploited as effective bio inoculants for horse gram growth and yield enhancement under varied climatic conditions. \r\nFive rhizobia isolates were obtained from the Biocatalysts Laboratory of the Department of Agricultural Microbiology, Tamil Nadu Agricultural University, Coimbatore. The isolates were tested for their inherent ability to grow under different levels of moisture deficit stress in PEG 6000. Their ability to promote growth under moisture-stress conditions was assessed through germination plate assay. The length of the seedlings, germination percentage, and proline content were estimated. \r\nThe isolates were able to withstand and exhibit growth under lower osmotic potential of upto -1.17MPa. The germination percentage of the seeds treated with cultures also significantly increased over the control. The growth parameters were also enhanced compared to the untreated seeds. This study thus explores the five isolates in question and their ability to enhance drought stress tolerance and plant health promotion in horse gram. This can be used effectively for furthering sustainable cultivation systems of horse gram. \r\n','Horse gram, drought tolerance, Rhizobium, plant growth','The five isolates were tested for their ability to tolerate and grow at lower osmotic potential, and out of the five, HR5 had the highest tolerance to induced drought stress under in vitro conditions. Furthermore, the isolate also exhibited an increase in plant growth parameters in horse gram seeds under varied moisture deficit stress. The isolate was observed to promote drought stress alleviation by facilitating an increase in the accumulation of proline. Thus the isolate HR5 (Rhizobium sp.) can be selected to alleviate drought stress and promote plant growth in horse gram. It has the potential to be a drought-alleviating PGP microbe for horse gram cultivation for exploitation in the future.','-','Priyadharshini Aaradhana, Shobana Narayanasamy and Sivakumar Uthandi (2023). Evaluating Plant Growth Promoting Abilities of Rhizobium under Moisture Deficit Stress in Horse Gram (Macrotyloma uniflorum Lam. [Verdc.]). Biological Forum – An International Journal, 15(10): 1017-1021.'),(7826,'168','Technical Efficiency of Dairy Farms in Rural – Urban Interface of Bengaluru: An Application of Stochastic Frontier Function','Kadli Veeresh, B.V. Chinnappa Reddy and Ganeshagouda I. Patil ','Technical-Efficiency-of-Dairy-Farms-in-Rural-Urban-Interface-of-Bengaluru-An-Application-of-Stochastic-Frontier-Function-Kadli-Veeresh-186.pdf','',1,'This study is the modest attempt to explore the influence of urbanization on dairy farming households, dairy profitability and economy of the village. As influenced by urbanization, there have been changes in the herd size in rural, transition and urban areas around Bengaluru. In this attempt, the patterns of emergence of allied agricultural activities and non-farm activities across the Rural-Urban interface have been analyzed and study carried out in north and south transects of Bengaluru across three gradients from each transect to estimate the efficiency of dairy farmers revealed that total variance as well as inefficiency was more among the dairy farmers in Rural gradient in both transects. More than 85 per cent of the total variance of rural gradient in both transects was due to farmers inefficiency whereas in urban gradient less than 70 per cent of the total variance was caused by farmers inefficiency in north as well as south transacts. Farms with efficiency score more than 0.90 was also more among the urban gradients compared to rural and transition. Number of farms with efficiency score less than 0.50 were more among south transect across all gradients than that of north transect. Herd size, concentrate and roughage feeds and number of man days were the main inputs which influence the production and concentrate feeds were more significant in urban gradient while roughage feed was significant in rural gradient. Organizational members and trained farmers are operating more efficiently than non-members.','Maximum likelihood estimates, Stochastic Frontier Production, Production Efficiency','The study results shows that total variance as well as inefficiency per cent were more among farmers in rural gradient in both north and south transects. Farms with efficiency scores more than 0.90 was low in all the gradients whereas, number of farms operating with more than 0.90 score was more among urban gradient in both north and south transects. This inefficiency can be attributed to the low educational level, poor management practices and disproportionate use of feeds. These results implicit that the average dairy farmer in this sample in all gradients across both transects has the potential to increase their efficiency considerably without changing their production frontier because these major proportion of total variance in the estimated models were due to farmers inefficiency which can be controlled by the farmers and can improve the efficiency by going for appropriate management practices like balanced feed supply norms and organizational participation. The study also revealed that production inputs which are included in the model were contributing significantly to the production efficiency of the farms. Increase in herd size will lead to operation of economies of scale and there by increases the profitability of farm. The variable fodder crop also has the positive relationship with the efficiency of farms. Both as the farmers in rural gradients are more dependent on roughage feed, cultivation of fodder crops has more significance in the production efficiency of farms in rural gradient. Organizational participation and training of the farmers had significant influence on the production efficiency of sampled farmers so it is essential create awareness about the benefits of organizational membership and training activities among the dairy farmers.','-','Kadli Veeresh, B.V. Chinnappa Reddy and Ganeshagouda I. Patil (2023). Technical Efficiency of Dairy Farms in Rural – Urban Interface of Bengaluru: An Application of Stochastic Frontier Function. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 15(10): 1022-1027.'),(7827,'168','Vertical Distribution of DTPA Extractable Zn, Fe Cu and Mn in Old and Recent Flood Plains of Ghaggar and Yammuna Rivers','Dinesh, Vishnoi S. and Bala M.','Vertical-Distribution-of-DTPA-Extractable-Zn,-Fe-Cu-and-Mn-in-Old-and-Recent-Flood-Plains-of-Ghaggar-and-Yammuna-Rivers-Vishnoi-S-187.pdf','',1,'An investigation was undertaken to study the vertical distribution of DTPA extractable Zn, Fe, Cu and Mn in recent and old flood plains of Ghaggar and Yammuna rivers. The different pedon sites were delineated through visual interpretation of IRS-ID satellite data. The selected pedons representing recent and old flood plains were sampled to enumerate the distribution of available content of Zn, Fe, Cu and Mn. The soils were classified according to Soil Taxonomy. The soils of recent flood plains (Ghaggar and Yammuna) were Typic Undorthents/ Ustorthents and old flood plains (Ghaggar and Yammuna) as Typic Eutrodepts/ Haplustepts. \r\nThe content of micronutrients (Zn, Fe, Cu and Mn) were found in sufficient amount in all the surface horizons of these pedons. The vertical distribution of all these nutrients was uneven. The physicochemical characteristics of these soils were correlated with micronutrient contents. A significant correlation of these micronutrients (except Zn) was found with organic carbon contents of the soils. Whereas non-significant correlation of these nutrients was observed with Electrical Conductivity, Cation Exchange Capacity, silt and clay content of these soils.\r\n','DTPA extractable, Flood plains and Micronutrients','In conclusion, all the micronutrients were found in sufficient amount in surface horizon of all the studied pedon it may be stated that the amounts of DTPA-extractable micronutrients in soils of different areas are significantly related to organic carbon, cation exchange capacity and fine texture. Therefore, organic carbon content alongwith soil texture should be considered when interpreting results for micronutrient availability in soils.','-','Dinesh, Vishnoi S. and Bala M. (2023). Vertical Distribution of DTPA Extractable Zn, Fe Cu and Mn in Old and Recent Flood Plains of Ghaggar and Yammuna Rivers. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 15(10): 1028-1031.'),(7828,'167','Packaging of instant Mix Tomato Khaman Powder using Simple or Vacuum Packaging Laminated Aluminium Foil','Sudhirkumar B. Vinzuda and Navneet Kumar','Packaging-of-instant-Mix-Tomato-Khaman-Powder-using-Simple-or-Vacuum-Packaging-Laminated-Aluminium-Foil-B-Vinzuda-12.pdf','',1,'Due to over growing population, the world is facing a challenge related to food products. Instant food products have become an essential component in meeting the demands of human consumption. Products made from tomatoes after they have been processed are very significant to improving public health. Mashed/cooked tomatoes provide higher levels of lycopene compared to entire tomatoes. This study aims to conduct in-depth research into the topic of packaging instant mix tomato khaman powder utilising either simple packaging or vacuum packaging laminated aluminium foil. The storage stability of optimised instant mix tomato khaman powder was evaluated at 15-day intervals over a storage period of up to 75 days using laminated aluminium foil pouches (LAFP) and low-density polyethene bags (LDPE) with and without vacuum packaging. The storage period started at 15 days and went up to 75 days. The study found that the sensory score of colour, aroma, taste, and overall acceptability of instant mix tomato khaman powder were highest in LAFP with vacuum packaging as opposed to LAFP without vacuum packaging and polyethene bags with as well as without vacuum packaging throughout the storage period. As a result, the storage of the quick mix tomato khaman powder was best accomplished with the laminated aluminium foil pouch that had vacuum packaging.','Tomato Khaman Instant Mix Powder; Storage Stability; Packaging; Aluminium Foil','Optimized tomato khaman instant mix powder was stored in LAFP and LDPE bags with and without vacuum packaging for 75 days (2.5 months). Storage reduced average colour-L* values from 19.0 to 16.13. During storage, the average colour-a* and colour-b* values increased from 15.60 to 24.10 and -8.80 to -29.07. Storage reddens and yellows colour-a* and colour-b*. Vacuum packing with an LAFP had the lowest average moisture content among polyethene bags with and without vacuum packaging. Tomato khaman instant mix powder’s ascorbic acid reduced from 14.70 to 14.00 mg/100g after 75 days. Laminated aluminium foil pouches with vacuum sealing had the most ascorbic acid after 75 days. Hence, vacuum-packed LAFPs were ideal for product storage.','-','-'),(7829,'168','Seasonal Incidence of Sucking Pests of the Sunflower','Anjali Purushottam Sharma, Milind M. Sonkamble, Chirag B. Channe, Neha G. Matra and Dilip B. Randive ','Seasonal-Incidence-of-Sucking-Pests-of-the-Sunflower-Anjali-Purushottam-Sharma-188.pdf','',1,'Sunflower is one of the important oil-seed crop of farmers community in India and its production is affected by insect pests. In order to determine the seasonal incidence of sucking insect pest of sunflower and its correlation with weather parameters the studies were carried out in College of Agriculture Parbhani, VNMKV, Maharashtra during rabi, 2022. In seasonal incidence study, it was observed that jassids, Amrasca bigutulla bigutulla and whitefly Bemisia tabaci were sucking pests in sunflower ecosystem. Jassids incidence was noticed during 4th week of September and reached peak at 5th week of October. Whitefly incidence had started during 4th week of September and reached a peak of 1.60 whiteflies/leaf/plant in 1st week of November. The population of jassid showed negative significant correlation with evening relative humidity (r = -0.601*) and wind speed (r = -0.595). The population of whitefly showed positive significant correlation with morning relative humidity (r=0.134*).','Correlation, sunflower, jassids, whiteflies, regression','Jassids population had reached to the highest of 3.71 jassids/leaf/plant in 43rd SMW and it showed negative significant correlation with evening relative humidity (r= -0.601*) and wind speed (r = -0.595*). It is therefore concluded that abiotic factors contributed for 71.3 per cent of total variation in the population of jassid on sunflower. Maximum population of whitefly was recorded 1.60 whitefly/leaf/plant during 44th SMW and it showed positive significant correlation with morning relative humidity (r= 0.134*). Thus, it is concluded that the abiotic factors contributed for 53.7 per cent of total variation in the population of whitefly Bemisia tabaci on sunflower.','-','Anjali Purushottam Sharma, Milind M. Sonkamble, Chirag B. Channe, Neha G. Matra and Dilip B. Randive (2023). Seasonal Incidence of Sucking Pests of the Sunflower. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 15(10): 1032-1036.'),(7830,'169','Evaluation of Conventional and Minimum Tillage System and Weed Management Practices on Weed Growth and Rice Productivity in a Rice based Cropping Sequence','Sontara Kalita, Jayanta Deka, Khagen Kurmi, Ramani Kanta Thakuria, Dhruba Jyoti Nath, Kaushik Das and Pompy Deka','Evaluation-of-Conventional-and-Minimum-Tillage-System-and-Weed-Management-Practices-on-Weed-Growth-and-Rice-Productivity-in-a-Rice-based-Cropping-Sequence-Sontara-Kalita-1.pdf','',1,'Two years of field investigation was laid to evaluate the effect of tillage and weed management practices on weed growth and productivity of sali rice in a Sesbania aculeata (S)-transplanted/direct seeded rice (TR/DSR)-Indian mustard (IM) cropping sequence during 2017-19 at the Instructional-cum-Research (ICR) farm, Assam Agricultural University (AAU), Jorhat. Treatment, minimum tillage/MT (S)-conventional tillage/CT (TR)-minimum tillage (IM) improved growth parameters, yield attributes as well as yield and recorded an increase in grain yield by 40.22 and 26.26% in 2017 and 2018, respectively with substantial reduction in weed density and weed dry matter over MT(S)-CT(DSR)-CT(IM) (T3). Furthermore, among the weed management practices integrated weed management (IWM) and manual weeding (MW) recorded higher weed control efficiency and weed control index, and noted respective increase in grain yield of rice by 83.82 and 80.78% in 2017 and 93.29 and 98.83% in 2018 as compared to weedy check. ','Minimum tillage, Integrated weed management, Weed control efficiency and Weed control index','It can be concluded from the present investigation that in terms of rice growth and productivity, tillage systems MT(S)-CT(TR)-MT(IM) and MT(S)-MT(DSR)-MT+R(IM) and among different weed management treatments two manual weeding and integrated weed management practices were the most effective. However, further investigation in different sali rice based cropping sequences of Assam must be done to assess the effect of tillage system and weed management practices. ','-','Sontara Kalita, Jayanta Deka, Khagen Kurmi, Ramani Kanta Thakuria, Dhruba Jyoti Nath, Kaushik Das and Pompy Deka (2023). Evaluation of Conventional and Minimum Tillage System and Weed Management Practices on Weed Growth and Rice Productivity in a Rice based Cropping Sequence. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 15(11): 01-05.'),(7831,'147','Investigating the Impact of Diverse Carbon Sources on the Growth of Trichoderma asperellum Isolates Derived from Pulse Rhizospheres in Odisha','A.G. Panda, M.K. Mishra, B. Boblina, D. Datta and B. Jena','Investigating-the-Impact-of-Diverse-Carbon-Sources-on-the-Growth-of-Trichoderma-asperellum-Isolates-Derived-from-Pulse-Rhizospheres-in-Odisha-AG-Panda-139.pdf','',1,'Trichoderma has emerged as a valuable biocontrol agent due to the detrimental effects of chemical fertilizers on the environment. These fungal communities play a critical role in combating agricultural diseases and have shown effective elimination of harmful fungi in approximately 90% of cases. The utilization of carbon and nitrogen patterns by heterotrophic organisms is essential for their sustenance, and the wide range of available substrates in nature contributes to biological diversity. This study aimed to investigate the impact of different carbon sources on the growth and sporulation of Trichoderma asperellum isolates (TAGJM, TANYG, TABLGR, TAPUR, TAKJR and TACTC) in liquid Richard\'s medium. Eight carbon sources were tested, and their utilization by the fungus was analyzed by adjusting their quantities to match the carbon content of sucrose in a constant C/N ratio. A control group without any carbon source was also included. The results demonstrated diverse utilization patterns across the tested isolates, with TAKJR exhibiting the highest mean dry biomass weight, followed by TANYG, while TAPUR and TACTC showed the lowest mean dry biomass weights. Mannitol emerged as the most favorable carbon source, recording the highest dry biomass weight, followed by sucrose and glucose. Lactose and starch exhibited the lowest dry biomass weights. Understanding the nutritional requirements of Trichoderma species and their response to growth and sporulation is crucial for supplementing media and enhancing mass production. Overall, this research provides insights into the ecological behavior and nutritional needs of Trichoderma spp., contributing to the development of sustainable agricultural practices and the efficient production of Trichoderma biomass.','Trichoderma asperellum, Carbon source, Mannitol, Sucrose, biomass','Research into the effects of different carbon sources on the development and sporulation of Trichoderma asperellum isolates has shown interesting differences in resource consumption by these fungus. The results showed that growth rates varied significantly amongst isolates, highlighting the need of learning about their dietary preferences. Mannitol, sucrose, and glucose were shown to be ideal substrates for Trichoderma growth, and the choice of carbon source was found to have a major impact on biomass output. ','-','A.G. Panda, M.K. Mishra, B. Boblina, D. Datta and B. Jena (2022). Investigating the Impact of Diverse Carbon Sources on the Growth of Trichoderma asperellum Isolates Derived from Pulse Rhizospheres in Odisha. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 14(4a): 814-816.'),(7832,'168','Genetic Analysis of Finger Millet (Eleusine coracana (L.) Garetn) Germplasm through Principle component Analysis and D2 Cluster Analysis in Himachal Pradesh','Shailja, Ritika Singh, Alok Kumar, Anupam Kumar and Shivani Kaundal ','Genetic-Analysis-of-Finger-Millet-(Eleusine-coracana-(L.)-Garetn)-Germplasm-through-Principle-component-Analysis-and-D2-Cluster-Analysis-in-Himachal-Pradesh-Shailja-189.pdf','',1,'A field experiment was conducted on 37 genotypes including 2 local checks were grown in a Randomized Block Design (RBD) with three replications during kharif, 2022 at Research Farm of School of Agriculture, Abhilashi University Chail chowk Mandi, Himachal Pradesh to study the nature and magnitude of divergence by using Mahalanobis D2 statistics. The observations for 19 morphological characters was recorded. Two techniques, principal component analysis and cluster analysis were applied. Principal component analysis indicates that four principal components PC-1, PC-2, PC-3 and PC-4 explains 30.76%, 21.65%, 16.14% and 11.23% respectively of the total variation. Principal component analysis showed that first principle component had maximum of 30.76% of total variation, while the first four principle component axes together explained 82.78% of variations. On the basis of Euclidean distance, 37 genotypes were grouped into 7 different clusters using cluster analysis. Cluster 1 had highest number of genotypes followed by cluster 3 with 4 genotypes, cluster 2, 4, 5, 6 and 7 with one genotype. Therefore, there was a significant diversity among these clusters and genotypes from these clusters could be used as parents for hybridization. Grain yield contributed maximum toward the genetic divergence in 37 genotypes of finger millet. For majority of the desirable traits, including biological yield, 100 seed weight, flag leaf blade width, peduncle length and number of fingers per ear, cluster 5 exhibited the highest cluster mean. Clustering through D2 analysis revealed maximum inter cluster distance between cluster 6 and 7 (5053.66) followed by cluster 6 and 4 (4962.99), cluster 2 and 6 (4524.50), 1 and 6 (4208.39), 5 and 7 (4073.57) cluster 2 and 7 (3715.87). The result of the present study could be exploited in planning and execution of future breeding strategy in finger millet.','Principal component analysis, Finger millet, Cluster analysis, RBD, Euclidean distance, Genotype, Hybridization','In conclusion, Principal component analysis for 19 quantitative traits revealed six principal components out of which maximum variability was found in first four components which contributed 82.78% to variance. Cluster analysis for yield and yield contributing traits classified all 37 genotypes of finger millet into seven clusters by using Tocher’s method. Cluster 1 included maximum number of genotypes followed by cluster 3 with four genotypes, cluster 2,4,5,6 and 7 with one genotype each indicating wide diversity from whole set as well as from each other. Grain yield contributed maximum toward the total genetic divergence. Clustering through D2 analysis revealed maximum inter cluster distance between cluster 6 and 7 (5053.66) followed by cluster 6 and 4 (4962.99), cluster 2 and 6 (4524.50), 1 and 6 (4208.39), 5 and 7 (4073.57) cluster 2 and 7 (3715.87). Therefore, there was a significant diversity among these clusters and genotypes from these clusters could be used as parents for hybridization.','-','Shailja, Ritika Singh, Alok Kumar, Anupam Kumar and Shivani Kaundal (2023). Genetic Analysis of Finger Millet (Eleusine coracana (L.) Garetn) Germplasm through Principle component Analysis and D2 Cluster Analysis in Himachal Pradesh. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 15(10): 1037-1043.'),(7833,'168','Assessment of the Economic Impact of various Treatments on Wheat (Triticum aestivum L.) Crop in Jaunpur, Uttar Pradesh','Harivansh Singh, Anil Kumar Singh and Pradeep Kumar Yadav','Assessment-of-the-Economic-Impact-of-various-Treatments-on-Wheat-(Triticum-aestivum-L.)-Crop-in-Jaunpur,-Uttar-Pradesh-Harivansh-Singh-190.pdf','',1,'This study aimed to assess the economic impact of various treatments on wheat (Triticum aestivum L.) crop in Jaunpur, Uttar Pradesh. The research was conducted during the winter season of 2018-19 to 2019-20 in factorial randomized block design comprising combination of three seed rate (S1-100kg ha-¹, S2 120kg ha-¹ and S3-140kg ha-¹) and nutrient supply system (F1-100% RDF, F2-125%RDF, F3-75%RDF + 25%N through FYM and F4-75% RDF + 25%N through vermicompst), replicated thrice. The study investigated the effect of different nutrient supply system practices and seed rates on the cost of cultivation, gross return, net return, and benefit cost ratio in a field experiment. The data analysis showed a linear relationship between the cost of cultivation and nutrient supply system practices. The treatment combination of 75% RDF + 25% N through VC ha-1 with all seed rates resulted in the highest cost of cultivation. The highest gross return was recorded at 125% RDF (NPK) with 140 kg ha-1 seed rate, followed by the gross return obtained at 125% RDF (NPK) with 120 kg ha-1 seed rate. The treatment combination of 125% RDF (NPK) with 140 kg ha-1 seed rate resulted in the highest net return, while the benefit cost ratio was highest for the treatment combination of 125% RDF (NPK) with the 140 kg ha-1 seed rate and 100% RDF (NPK) with 140 kg ha-1 seed rate. These findings suggest that optimizing nutrient supply system practices and seed rates can enhance crop yield and profitability for farmers.','Factorial randomized, benefit cost ratio, profitability, gross return ','In conclusion, the study focused on assessing the economic impact of different treatments on wheat cultivation in Jaunpur, Uttar Pradesh. The factorial randomized block design included variations in seed rates and nutrient supply systems, and the research spanned two winter seasons. The analysis of the data revealed several key findings.\r\nThe higher cost of cultivation (` 33218.04 ha-1 during 2018-19 and 33091.00 during 2019-20) was computed at 75 % RDF + 25% N through VC ha-1 with all the seed rates.\r\nThe higher gross return (` 108460.00 ha-1 during 2018-19 and 108945.00 during 2019-20) was recorded under the treatment combination of 125% RDF (NPK) with the 140 kg seed rate followed by gross return obtained at 125% RDF (NPK) with 120 kg seed rate (` 105395.00 during 2018-19 and 105616.00 during 2019-20).\r\nHighest net return (` 75241.96 ha-1 during 2018-19 and 75854.00 during 2019-20) was found under the treatment combination of 125% RDF (NKP) with 140 kg ha-1 seed rate. As regards benefit cost ratio, the higher benefit cost ratio (2.77 during 2018-19 and 2.29 during 2019-20) was obtained from treatment combination of 125% RDF (NPK) with the 140 kg ha-1 seed rate and 100% RDF (NPK) with 140 kg ha-1 seed rate followed by benefit cost ratio (2.26 during 2018-19 and 2.28 during 2019-20) obtained from treatment combination of 125% RDF (NPK) with 120 kg ha-1 seed rate.\r\n','-','Harivansh Singh, Anil Kumar Singh and Pradeep Kumar Yadav (2023). Assessment of the Economic Impact of various Treatments on Wheat (Triticum aestivum L.) Crop in Jaunpur, Uttar Pradesh. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 15(10): 1044-1046.'),(7834,'168','FT-IR Analysis of Moringa oleifera L. Leaf Extract and its Insecticidal activity against Callosobruchus chinensis L. (Coleoptera: Bruchidae)','Sourabh Maheshwari, Sonu Bharti, Aakriti Gusain, Saif Ali Khan and Neha Girish Matra ','FT-IR-Analysis-of-Moringa-oleifera-L.-Leaf-Extract-and-its-Insecticidal-activity-against-Callosobruchus-chinensis-L.-(Coleoptera-Bruchidae)-Sourabh-Maheshwari-191.pdf','',1,'The objective of this study was to investigate the insecticidal properties of Moringa oleifera leaves with identification of chemical compounds within its extract using Fourier Transform Infrared Spectroscopy (FTIR). The research involved scanning the leaves\' extract across a spectral range of 4000-400 cm-1 and identifying characteristic peaks in the FTIR spectrum. Spectral analysis confirmed the presence of several important chemical groups, including carboxylates, phenols, polyphenols, and hydroxyl groups within the extract. These compounds are known for their bioactive properties, which may contribute to the insecticidal effects observed in the study. In our experiment, notable results were obtained while assessing insecticidal efficacy of the Moringa oleifera leaves. The highest mortality rate of 100% was observed when dried leaves at concentrations of 10% and 20% were used against the targeted insect Callosobruchus chinesis infestation within a 48-hour timeframe. In contrast, lower mortality percentages of 38% and 72% were recorded when 5% and 10% dried leaves were used for the same duration of insect exposure. These results suggest that Moringa oleifera leaves contain bioactive compounds with insecticidal properties, as confirmed by FTIR analysis and insecticidal bioasssay. Further it suggests that botanicals serves as eco-friendly and sustainable insecticidal alternatives under storage conditions.','Moringa oleifera, FTIR spectroscopy, Pulse beetle, insecticidal activity, Functional group','In conclusion, the present study provides compelling evidence for the insecticidal potential of M. oleifera leaves, reaffirming their value as a biopesticide. The research combined FTIR analysis with insecticidal bioassays, shedding light on the chemical compounds present in the M. oleifera leaf extract and their role in combating insect infestations. The FTIR spectra confirmed the presence of bioactive chemical groups such as carboxylates, phenols, polyphenols, and hydroxyl groups, which are recognized for their insecticidal properties. The bioassay results revealed that the effectiveness of moringa leaves is both concentration and time-dependent. The highest mortality rate of 100% was achieved with 10% and 20% dried leaf concentrations within 48 hours, signifying the potent insecticidal effects of these extracts. Furthermore, the moringa leaves do not compromise the taste of stored seeds, making them a practical choice for pest management in food storage as an eco-friendly and sustainable alternative for insect pest control. Moreover, the study emphasizes the antioxidant properties of M. oleifera leaves, attributed to their high polyphenol content, which helps protect vital biomolecules and proteins from oxidative damage. In light of these findings, Moringa holds promise as a sustainable and eco-friendly solution in the ongoing quest for effective insect pest control under storage conditions.','-','Sourabh Maheshwari, Sonu Bharti, Aakriti Gusain, Saif Ali Khan and Neha Girish Matra (2023). FT-IR Analysis of Moringa oleifera L. Leaf Extract and its Insecticidal activity against Callosobruchus chinensis L. (Coleoptera: Bruchidae). Biological Forum – An International Journal, 15(10): 1047-1051.'),(7835,'168','Hemionitis arifolia (Burm.f.) T. Moore: A Promising Medicinal Plant in the Fight Against Cancer- A Review','Milkuri Chiranjeeva Reddy, Mhaiskar Priya Rajendra, D. Ravivarma, Bheemreddyvalla Venkateshwar Reddy, CH. Bhargavi and Yerrawada Naveen','Hemionitis-arifolia-(Burm.f.)-T.-Moore-A-Promising-Medicinal-Plant-in-the-Fight-Against-Cancer--A-Review-Milkuri-Chiranjeeva-Reddy-192.pdf','',1,'Hemionitis arifolia, commonly known as the Indian dwarf fern, is a small, terrestrial fern with rich phytochemical properties. It is primarily found in India, Laos, Sri Lanka, Vietnam, and other countries in tropical Southeast Asia. This versatile plant exhibits antibacterial, hypoglycemic, anti-fungal, anti-oxidant, anti-inflammatory, and potential anti-cancer activities. Studies have shown that Hemionitis arifolia extracts possess antibacterial properties, particularly against Escherichia coli. This indicates its potential as an antimicrobial agent. Additionally, the plant has demonstrated hypoglycemic and anti-diabetic properties, making it a promising candidate for managing diabetes. It also exhibits anti-fungal, anti-oxidant, and anti-inflammatory activities. Despite its medicinal potential, Hemionitis arifolia has been relatively overlooked in pharmacogenetic and phytochemical studies. However, further research and understanding of this remarkable fern could revolutionize the field of herbal medicine and contribute to alternative remedies. It has a wide range of healing properties. Its antibacterial, hypoglycemic, anti-fungal, anti-oxidant, anti-inflammatory, and potential anti-cancer activities make it a valuable asset in the realm of natural medicine. As we continue to explore the potential of natural remedies, Hemionitis arifolia stands as a beacon of hope, reminding us of the incredible healing power of nature.','Hemionitis arifolia, medicinal plant, phytochemical properties, anti-diabetic, anti-fungal, anti-oxidant, anti-inflammatory and anti-cancer','In conclusion, H. arifolia stands as a remarkable and medicinally important plant, revered for its multitude of healing properties. Its historical significance, coupled with its diverse range of medicinal uses, make it a valuable asset in the realm of herbal medicine. From its potential as an anti-inflammatory agent to its ability to aid digestion and promote respiratory health, H. arifolia has proven itself to be a versatile and effective remedy. As we continue to explore the potential of natural remedies, H. arifolia remains a beacon of hope, reminding us of the incredible healing power nature holds. With further research and understanding, this extraordinary plant has the potential to revolutionize the field of medicine and improve the well-being of countless individuals around the world.','-','Milkuri Chiranjeeva Reddy, Mhaiskar Priya Rajendra, D. Ravivarma, Bheemreddyvalla Venkateshwar Reddy, CH. Bhargavi and Yerrawada Naveen (2023). Hemionitis arifolia (Burm.f.) T. Moore: A Promising Medicinal Plant in the Fight Against Cancer- A Review. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 15(10): 1052-1055.'),(7836,'168','Effect of Bio-stimulants on Biomass Production, Nutrient Content and uptake in Velvet Bean (Mucuna pruriens L.)','Sharanya B.R., Mallikarjuna Gowda A.P., Vasanthi, B.G. and Pushpa K. ','Effect-of-Bio-stimulants-on-Biomass-Production,-Nutrient-Content-and-uptake-in-Velvet-Bean-(Mucuna-pruriens-L.)-Sharanya-BR-193.pdf','',1,'Increasing the nutritional profile of legumes offers a desirable aim for reducing the global hunger caused by micronutrient deficiency. For decades, the use of inorganic/synthetic fertilizers has been common practice and accepted as an efficient means to alleviate these problems. However, the application of synthetic chemicals may cause a negative impact on the environment. In view of the increasing awareness of adverse effects of these chemicals and the recent paradigm shift towards ‘green farming’, the use of natural bio-stimulants is becoming popular globally. In this regard, an experiment was conducted at ICAR – Krishi Vigyan Kendra, Hadonahalli, Doddaballapura taluk, Bengaluru Rural District, Karnataka, during rabi 2020 - 2021, to assess the effect of bio-stimulants on biomass production, nutrient content and uptake in velvet bean. Experiment consisted of soil and foliar application of humic acid, amino acid, sea weed extract and microbial consortia based bio- stimulants. The experiment was carried out by adopting randomized complete block design (RCBD) consisting 9 treatments with three replications. Maximum fresh (90.46q/ha) and dry biomass yield (33.91q/ha) was found with RDF + Foliar application of humic acid based bio-stimulant. Whereas maximum nitrogen (2.82 %), phosphorus (0.15 %), potassium content in plant (1.45 %) and nutrient uptake of nitrogen (255.41kg ha-1), phosphorus (13.17kg ha-1), potassium (131.11kg ha-1) and also increased nitrogen (234.92kg ha-1), phosphorus (48.06kg ha-1), potassium content in soil (171.60kg ha-1), were recorded with RDF + Soil application of humic acid based bio-stimulant. Lower biomass production, nutrient content and uptake were found in control.','Velvet bean, RDF, Bio-stimulants, biomass production, NPK','Humic acid based bio-stimulant stimulate natural processes to enhance nutrient content and nutrient use efficiency in turn resulted in better nutrient uptake and maximum biomass production.','-','Sharanya B.R., Mallikarjuna Gowda A.P., Vasanthi, B.G. and Pushpa K. (2023). Effect of Bio-stimulants on Biomass Production, Nutrient Content and uptake in Velvet Bean (Mucuna pruriens L.). Biological Forum – An International Journal, 15(10): 1056-1060.'),(7837,'168','Effect of Pre Harvest Sprays of Calcium Compounds and Bagging on Post Harvest Quality of Summer Season Guava (Psidium guajava L.) cv. Allahabad Safeda','Kannam Pavithra, D. Naga Harshitha, Veena Joshi and Bhagyashali V. Hudge','Effect-of-Pre-Harvest-Sprays-of-Calcium-Compounds-and-Bagging-on-Post-Harvest-Quality-of-Summer-Season-Guava-(Psidium-guajava-L.)-cv.-Allahabad-Safeda-Kannam-Pavithra-194.pdf','',1,'An experiment entitled entitled “Effect of pre harvest sprays of calcium compounds and bagging on post harvest quality of summer season guava (Psidium guajava L.) Cv. Allahabad Safeda” was carried at Jookal village in Jayashankar Bhupalpally district during the year 2022-2023. The experiment was carried out with Factorial Randomized Block Design (FRBD) with 15 treatments and three replications with 2 factors. Factor one consists of sprays viz., S1- CaCl2 @ 1 %, S2- Ca(NO3)2 @ 1 %, S3- CaSO4 @ 1 % and factor two consists of bagging materials viz., B1- Muslin cloth bag, B2- Non woven bag, B3- Brown paper bag, B4- Blue polyethylene bag, B5- No bagging (Control).The experiment results revealed that pre harvest sprays of calcium compound Ca(NO3)2 @ 1 % and bagging with muslin cloth bag resulted in maximum fruit quality parameters such as TSS (13.33 °Brix), total sugars (15.55 %), reducing sugars (5.72 %), non reducing sugars (9.83 %), ascorbic acid content (196.99 mg /100g of pulp), pectin content (1.28 %) and minimum titratable acidity (0.28 %).These findings highlight the importance of different spraying of calcium compounds and bagging materials on fruits that controls fruit flies,pests ,diseases and improves the post harvest quality of fruits.','Allahabad safeda, Spraying, bagging, Quality improvement and fruit flies','Among the pre harvest sprays of calcium compounds, significantly maximum TSS, total sugars, reducing sugars, non reducing sugars, ascorbic acid content, pectin content and minimum titratable acidity was recorded in S2- Ca(NO3)2 @ 1 %. Among bagging materials, significantly maximum TSS, total sugars, reducing sugars, non reducing sugars, ascorbic acid content, pectin content and minimum titratable acidity was recorded in B1- Muslin cloth bag. In interaction effect of pre harvest sprays of calcium compounds and bagging, significantly maximum TSS, total sugars, reducing sugars, non reducing sugars, ascorbic acid content, pectin content and minimum titratable acidity was recorded in S2B1 - Ca(NO3)2 @ 1 % + Muslin cloth bag .\r\nIt is concluded that pre harvest sprays of calcium compounds and bagging on quality parameters viz., total soluble solids, total sugars, reducing sugars, non reducing sugars, ascorbic acid content, titratable acidity and pectin content was observed best with the treatment Ca(NO3)2 @ 1 % + Muslin cloth bag. The experiment concluded that different sprayings of calcium compounds and bagging materials improve the post harvest quality of fruits.\r\n','-','Kannam Pavithra, D. Naga Harshitha, Veena Joshi and Bhagyashali V. Hudge (2023). Effect of Pre Harvest Sprays of Calcium Compounds and Bagging on Post Harvest Quality of Summer Season Guava (Psidium guajava L.) cv. Allahabad Safeda. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 15(10): 1061-1067.'),(7838,'168','Influence of Scion Dip Treatments and Growing Condition on Success and Survival of Mango (Mangifera indica L.) Wedge Graft cv. Dashehari','Lokesh Nagar, C.S. Pandey, Sandeep Raipuriya, S.K. Pandey, Bhavana Mishra and Vishesh Patel ','Influence-of-Scion-Dip-Treatments-and-Growing-Condition-on-Success-and-Survival-of-Mango-(Mangifera-indica-L.)-Wedge-Graft-cv.-Dashehari-CS-Pandey-195.pdf','',1,'The experiment was conducted to find out the effect of IAA, BAP, ZnSO4 and growing condition on the growth, vigour and survival of mango (Mangifera Indica L.) grafts cv. Dashehari at Fruit Research Station Imaliya, Department of Horticulture, JNKVV Jabalpur. In India, there are variety of propagation techniques accessible, including softwood, veneer grafting, side grafting, and epicotyl grafting. Various aspects, including weather conditions, different types of mango cultivars, specific growth seasons, age of shoots and rootstocks, scion wrapping method, shoot maturity, and rootstock quality, all influence the outcomes and viability of mango grafting. The experiment was carried out in Factorial Completely Randomized Design (FCRD) during September 2022 to January 2023. The data showed that among different treatments BAP 40 ppm + ZnSO4 500 ppm under open condition was found to be most effective for days taken to sprout initiation with minimum 8.00 Days and for sprouting percentage with maximum values (76.66 and 77.66%) at 30 and 60 days. While the IAA 200 ppm + ZnSO4 500 ppm under shade net condition was found best in respect to maximum number of leaves (8.66 and 13.66) and survival percentage (73.33% and 74.33%) at 90 and 120 days. It is concluded from the research that Indole acetic acid (IAA) in combination with ZnSO4 under the shade condition is preferred for wedge grafting in late rainy season cv. Dashehari.','Wedge graft, Scion, Sprout Initiation, IAA, BAP, Shade net, Dashehari','On the basis of the research, it is concluded that the BAP 40 ppm + ZnSO4 500 ppm under open condition was found superior for days taken to sprouting and sprouting percentage. Conversely, the IAA 200 ppm + ZnSO4 500 ppm under the shade net condition was found superior in terms of maximum number of leaves and survival percentage among all the treatments in wedge grafting during last week of September. The IAA 200 ppm + ZnSO4 250 ppm under the shade net condition was found next best treatment for maximum number of leaves and survival percentage.','-','Lokesh Nagar¬, C.S. Pandey, Sandeep Raipuriya, S.K. Pandey, Bhavana Mishra and Vishesh Patel (2023). Influence of Scion Dip Treatments and Growing Condition on Success and Survival of Mango (Mangifera indica L.) Wedge Graft cv. Dashehari. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 15(10): 1068-1073.'),(7839,'168','Variability and Correlation Study of different Seed Vigour Parameters in Rice (Oryza sativa L.)','Ramakrushna Bastia, Devraj Lenka, Sharat Kumar Pradhan, Simanta Mohanty, P Sanghamitra, Kailash Chandra Samal and Manasi Dash ','Variability-and-Correlation-Study-of-different-Seed-Vigour-Parameters-in-Rice-(Oryza-sativa-L.)-Ramakrushna-Bastia-140.pdf','',4,'Rice is a staple cereal crop of Asia as well as India. In India unavailability of quality seed is still a problem. Quality seed with good physiological performance with respect to seed vigour is an important input to get higher yield. Quality seed with good stand establishment and seed vigour not only leads to good stand establishment but also shows tolerance to adverse climatic condition. In the present investigation we have used 120 rice landraces from different places of India and they were examined for six traits contributing seed vigour viz., germination Percentage(G%), root length (RL), shoot length(SL), seedling dry weight (SDW), seed vigour index I(SVI I) and seed vigour index II(SVI II). From the 120 genotypes 12 genotypes for SVI I and 15 genotypes for SVI II are recorded very high values. High variability in all the traits with good heritability (H2), PCV, GCV and genetic advance (GA) were recorded. A significant and positive correlation was found with seed vigour I and II with G%, RL, SL, SDW. In principal component analysis PC1 found with Eigen value 3.889 fond to contribute highest to the population (64.81%). The genotypes with high seed vigour can be used as in future breeding programs.','Seed vigour index, Germination percentage, seedling dry weight, root length','The present investigation focuses on variability study and correlation analysis of seed vigour-related traits by using 120 genotypes collected from different states of India. With regard to every aspect of seed quality, a great deal of variation is seen among the landraces and a positive correlation was observed between seed vigour index I and II with traits like shoot length, root length, germination percentage and seedling dry weight.','-','Ramakrushna Bastia, Devraj Lenka, Sharat Kumar Pradhan, Simanta Mohanty, P Sanghamitra, Kailash Chandra Samal and Manasi Dash (2022). Variability and Correlation Study of different Seed Vigour Parameters in Rice (Oryza sativa L.). Biological Forum – An International Journal, 14(4a): 817-821.'),(7840,'147','Variability and Correlation Study of different Seed Vigour Parameters in Rice (Oryza sativa L.)','Ramakrushna Bastia, Devraj Lenka, Sharat Kumar Pradhan, Simanta Mohanty, P Sanghamitra, Kailash Chandra Samal and Manasi Dash','Variability-and-Correlation-Study-of-different-Seed-Vigour-Parameters-in-Rice-(Oryza-sativa-L.)-Ramakrushna-Bastia-140.pdf','',1,'Rice is a staple cereal crop of Asia as well as India. In India unavailability of quality seed is still a problem. Quality seed with good physiological performance with respect to seed vigour is an important input to get higher yield. Quality seed with good stand establishment and seed vigour not only leads to good stand establishment but also shows tolerance to adverse climatic condition. In the present investigation we have used 120 rice landraces from different places of India and they were examined for six traits contributing seed vigour viz., germination Percentage (G%), root length (RL), shoot length (SL), seedling dry weight (SDW), seed vigour index I (SVI I) and seed vigour index II (SVI II). From the 120 genotypes 12 genotypes for SVI I and 15 genotypes for SVI II are recorded very high values. High variability in all the traits with good heritability (H2), PCV, GCV and genetic advance (GA) were recorded. A significant and positive correlation was found with seed vigour I and II with G%, RL, SL, SDW. In principal component analysis PC1 found with Eigen value 3.889 fond to contribute highest to the population (64.81%). The genotypes with high seed vigour can be used as in future breeding programs.','Seed vigour index, Germination percentage, seedling dry weight, root length','The present investigation focuses on variability study and correlation analysis of seed vigour-related traits by using 120 genotypes collected from different states of India. With regard to every aspect of seed quality, a great deal of variation is seen among the landraces and a positive correlation was observed between seed vigour index I and II with traits like shoot length, root length, germination percentage and seedling dry weight.','-','Ramakrushna Bastia, Devraj Lenka, Sharat Kumar Pradhan, Simanta Mohanty, P Sanghamitra, Kailash Chandra Samal and Manasi Dash (2022). Variability and Correlation Study of different Seed Vigour Parameters in Rice (Oryza sativa L.). Biological Forum – An International Journal, 14(4a): 817-821.'),(7841,'168','Development and Quality Evaluation of Little Millet Batter','Ramyashree S.R. and M.L. Revanna ','Development-and-Quality-Evaluation-of-Little-Millet-Batter-Ramyashree-SR-196.pdf','',1,'The objective of the study was to formulate batter from the different blend ratio of the little millet and black gram. The different blend ratios were 85:15 (LMT1), 80:20 (LMT2), 75:25 (LMT3) and 70:30 (LMT4) along with control rice and black gram (70:30) (LMT0). The samples were further studied for different parameters such as fermentation time, moisture, pH, acidity, bulk density and raise in batter volume, total solids in batter and colour. The pH of the batter ranged between 6.24 to 3.89, acidity between 0.41 to 0.66, moisture content between 64 to 67 per cent, total dissolved solids ranged between 32 to 34, rise in volume ranged from 11 to 66 per cent respectively. The L*, a* and b* values for the unfermented batter ranged from 78.53 to 79.20, 1.34 to 1.43 and 13.39 to 15.24 and in fermented batter values ranged from 79.92 to 81.29, 1.40 to 1.85 and 12.95 to 14.57 respectively.','Millets, pH, Acidity, Rise in volume, Colour, Total dissolved solids','Among these batter blends, LMT4 (70:30) ratio and LMT3 (75:25) with 16 hr of fermentation time was found to be optimum was acceptable with respect to sensory attributes. Hence the study concluded that, the fermented little millet batter can be utilized as convenient food.','-','Ramyashree S.R. and M.L. Revanna (2023). Development and Quality Evaluation of Little Millet Batter. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 15(10): 1074-1078.'),(7842,'168','Silver Nanoparticles –mediate Seed priming Improves Germination and Physiological Performance in Carrot','Eshita Kundu and Sanjoy Kumar Bordolui','Silver Nanoparticles –mediate Seed priming Improves Germination and Physiological Performance in Carrot-Sanjoy Kumar Bordolui-197.pdf','',1,'Present investigation was carried out with three carrot viz., Carrot Florence (G1), Deb Kuroda-1 (G2), Deb Kuroda-3 (G3) and different concentration and durations of Ag-Nanoparticles were 20 ppm for 12 hrs (T2), 20 ppm for 6 hrs (T3), 15 ppm for 12 hrs (T4), 15 ppm for 6 hrs (T5), 10 ppm for 12 hrs (T6), 10 ppm for 6 hrs (T7), non-primed seeds (T0) with the objectives for enhancing the germination and vigour. Seed priming is a pre-sowing treatment which results in a physiological condition that allows seed to germinate more efficient. The laboratory experiment was carried out in seed testing laboratory, Department of Seed science and Technology, Bidhan Chandra Krishi Viswavidyalaya, Mohanpur, Nadia, West Bengal, India. From the experiment, it can be concluded that treatments over genotypes, Ag-Nanoparticles 20 ppm for soaking 6 hrs showed best performer as seeds treated with Ag-Nanoparticles 20 ppm for soaking 6 hrs observed the significant higher potential than other priming concentrations and durations. Genotypes over treatments Deb Kuroda-3 was the best genotypes. Ag-Nanoparticles 20 ppm for soaking 6 hrs showed significantly highest performance for seed quality parameter like germination percentage (95.244), germination energy (53.167), seedling vigour Index-I (854.722), and germination index (6.778). Therefore, as pre-sowing treatment Ag-Nanoparticles 20 ppm with a duration of 6 hrs is recommended for treating carrot seed for better seedling establishment.','Ag-Nanoparticles, germination, priming, vigour','Carrot seeds were treated with various concentration and duration of Ag-Nanoparticles recorded higher seed quality than control. So, it can be concluded that treatments over genotypes, Ag-Nanoparticles 20 ppm for soaking 6 hrs was best compared to other treatments. Genotypes over treatments Deb Kuroda-3 was the best genotypes. Treatments over genotypes, Ag-Nanoparticles 20 ppm for soaking 6 hrs observed the significantly best than other priming concentrations and durations. Ag-Nanoparticles 20 ppm for soaking 6 hrs showed significantly highest performance for seed quality parameter like germination percentage (95.244), germination energy (53.167), seedling vigour Index-I (854.722), and germination index (6.778). Therefore, as pre-sowing treatment Ag-Nanoparticles 20 ppm with a duration of 6 hrs is recommended for treating carrot seed for better seedling establishment.','-','Eshita Kundu and Sanjoy Kumar Bordolui (2023). Silver Nanoparticles –mediate Seed priming Improves Germination and Physiological Performance in Carrot. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 15(10): 1079-1085.'),(7843,'168','Population Dynamics of Aphid, Hyadaphis coriandri Das Infesting Fennel with Relation to Biotic and Abiotic Factors','Heera Kumari, S.K. Khinchi, Sheetal Kumawat, Pappu Lal Dalal, Suman Choudhary and Arti Sharma ','Population-Dynamics-of-Aphid,-Hyadaphis-coriandri-Das-Infesting-Fennel-with-Relation-to-Biotic-and-Abiotic-Factors-Heera-Kumari-198.pdf','',1,'The present investigation on “Population dynamics of aphid, Hyadaphis coriandri Das infesting fennel with relation to biotic and abiotic factors” was carried out under field conditions at Research Farm, Department of Agronomy, College of Agriculture, Sri Karan Narendra Agricultural University, Jobner during Rabi season, 2021-22. The presence of fennel aphid was observed from the 3rd Standard Meteorological Week (SMW) and persisted until the 13th SMW, with its peak occurring during the 9thSMW in fennel crops. At the same time, higher population of Coccinella septempunctata was noted between the 4th SMW and 9th SMW, displaying a notably strong positive correlation with the aphid population in the fennel crop. The aphid population exhibited a significant correlation with maximum temperature, while minimum temperature, average relative humidity, and rainfall displayed insignificant effects. None of the weather parameters showed a significant correlation with C. septempunctata.','Fennel, aphid, Hyadaphis coriandri, Population dynamics, Coccinella septempunctata','The presence of H. coriandri commenced in the third week of January (3rd SMW) and persisted until the fourth week of March (13thSMW), with numbers ranging from 0.20 to 58 aphids per plant. The highest population of H. coriandri (58 aphids per plant) was noted during the fourth week of February (9thSMW). There was a relatively higher population of coccinellid predators (ranging from 1.4 to 8.24 coccinellids per plant) observed from the fourth week of January to the third week of March, peaking during the fourth week of February. Analysis of the correlation between H. coriandri and C. septumpuctata demonstrated a significant positive relationship. However, the variables of maximum and minimum temperatures, average relative humidity, and rainfall did not exert a significant impact on C. septumpuctata. Among these variables, only maximum temperature significantly influenced the population of H. coriandri, while minimum temperature, average relative humidity, and rainfall did not show significant effects on its population.','-','Heera Kumari, S.K. Khinchi, Sheetal Kumawat, Pappu Lal Dalal, Suman Choudhary and Arti Sharma (2023). Population Dynamics of Aphid, Hyadaphis coriandri Das Infesting Fennel with Relation to Biotic and Abiotic Factors. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 15(10): 1086-1089.'),(7844,'168','Growth and Carbon Storage Potential of Different Eucalyptus Clones Irrigated with Industrial Effluents','Akshay F. Madiwalar, G.P.S. Dhillon, Ankita Bhardwaj, Ghazanfer Abbas, Raziya Banoo and Deepshikha Singh ','Growth-and-Carbon-Storage-Potential-of-Different-Eucalyptus-Clones-Irrigated-with-Industrial-Effluents-Akshay-F-Madiwalar-199.pdf','',1,'Forest ecology plays a vital role in mitigating climate change challenges through carbon sequestration. Anthropogenic activities per se industrialisation are the major contributor to pollution by producing greenhouse gases and releasing effluents in the environment. However, plantations producing higher biomass under effluent irrigated conditions like Eucalyptus plantations are considered effective but the growth and carbon sequestration performance of diverse clones under effluent irrigated conditions is scarce. Therefore, in the present study, nine Eucalyptus clones were evaluated for growth traits and carbon storage potential under distillery effluent irrigated conditions. A clonal trial was planted at the liquor factory Macchana, near Sangat Mandi, Punjab with nine clones replicated four times following RCBD design. The data were recorded on survival, growth traits, biomass, and carbon storage was worked out. Survival percentage varied from 85-95% with non-significant differences among the clones. Significant variation in growth traits and carbon biomass was observed among Eucalyptus clones except for tree survival. Clone C-316 was found superior among all the clones for diameter, volume, carbon biomass and carbon sequestration, whereas clone PE-7 recorded maximum height. Clone PE-6 exhibited bottom rank for all growth traits except height. Carbon storage varied from 30.37 to 56.01 kg/tree. The investigation revealed that clones C-316, C-411 and PE-7 were found excellent for planting at effluent irrigated condition sites and for higher carbon sequestration.','Biomass, carbon stock, Eucalyptus, clones, wood volume, distillery effluents','In general all clones adapted well and relatively higher survival was recorded by clone C-316, C-413 and C-411. The study revealed significant variation among Eucalyptus clones in all growth traits and biomass. Diameter ranged 9.98-13.01 cm, height varied from 14.05-17.16m and volume ranged 0.122-0.066 mm3. Clone C-316 recorded top rank for all traits except tree height, whereas clone PE-8 recorded maximum height and clone PE-6 found bottom rank. The relative ranking of clones for carbon sequestration was witnessed as C-316 > C-411 > C-413> PE-8 > PE-7 >C-2045 >PE11> PE-5 > PE-6. The present study revealed that clone C-316, C-411 and PE-7 found ideal and may be recommended for planting in effluent irrigated environments.','-','Akshay F. Madiwalar, G.P.S. Dhillon, Ankita Bhardwaj, Ghazanfer Abbas, Raziya Banoo and Deepshikha Singh (2023). Growth and Carbon Storage Potential of Different Eucalyptus Clones Irrigated with Industrial Effluents. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 15(10): 1090-1096.'),(7845,'168','Studies on Preparation of Jaggery Based Guava (Psidium guajava L.) Jelly','Shruti Chulke, Kirankumar Gorabal, Laxman Kukanoor, Anil I. Sabarad and Sachinkumar T. Nandimath ','Studies-on-Preparation-of-Jaggery-Based-Guava-(Psidium-guajava-L.)-Jelly-Shruti-Chulke-200.pdf','',1,'Gauva (Psidium guajava L.) is a popular fruit crop of tropical and sub-tropical zones, which is commonly called as “poor man’s apple”. The fruit is rich in vitamins and minerals and also pectin content. About 10-15 percentage of the production of fruit is being wasted from picking to consumption. Based on the richness of pectin content, the fruit was used for value addition process that is jaggery based guava jelly. Jaggery based guava jelly were developed with different recipes containing 3 levels of jaggery, two levels of citric acid, constant levels of fruit extract and pectin, sugar was used as a reference check for comparison. Physico-chemical characteristics like yield, moisture content, water activity, titratable acidity, ascorbic acid, total sugars, reducing sugars, non-reducing sugars, minerals and optical density were analysed in the freshly prepared guava jelly. The sensory quality parameters viz., colour and appearance, texture, aroma, taste and overall acceptability of guava jelly were determined using a 9 point hedonic scale. Among different treatment combinations, the recipe with 1000 ml of extract + 800 g of jaggery + 5 g of citric acid + 5 g pectin recorded excellent physicochemical properties and organoleptic score.','Guava, Jelly, Jaggery, sugar, ascorbic acid, aroma','From the above results, jaggery based guava jelly prepared by using a recipe containing 1000 ml of extract + 800 g of jaggery + 5 g of citric acid + 5 g pectin (T6) resulted in excellent quality in terms of physico-chemical characteristics and organoleptic traits. In terms of mineral richness, jellies made from jaggery were clearly superior than those made from sugar.','-','Shruti Chulke, Kirankumar Gorabal, Laxman Kukanoor, Anil I. Sabarad and Sachinkumar T. Nandimath (2023). Studies on Preparation of Jaggery Based Guava (Psidium guajava L.) Jelly. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 15(10): 1097-1101.'),(7846,'168','Growth Attributes and Growth Indices of Aerobic Rice as Influenced by Urease and Nitrification Inhibitors','Mahantesh B. Nagangoudar, H.M. Jayadeva, B.S. Lalitha, D.C. Hanumanthappa, G.G. Kadalli and N. Umashankar ','Growth-Attributes-and-Growth-Indices-of-Aerobic-Rice-as-Influenced-by-Urease-and-Nitrification-Inhibitors-Mahantesh-B-Nagangoudar-201.pdf','',1,'Slowing down the mineralization of urea fertilizers is imperative for achieving higher crop yields, as it allows for a more controlled release of nutrients, promoting optimal plant absorption. Additionally, this practice contributes to eco-friendly crop production by reducing nitrogen losses into environment. Hence, a field experiment was conducted to assess the impact of combined application of urease and nitrification inhibitors along with urea on growth attributes and growth indices of aerobic rice at Agronomy field unit, Zonal Agricultural Research Station, UASB, GKVK, Bengaluru for two years during summer, 2022 and 2023. The experiment was laid out in Randomized Complete Block Design with nine treatments (Urea, Urea + HQ @ 4000 mg kg-1 urea, Urea + HQ @ 8000 mg kg-1 urea, Urea + HQ @ 12000 mg kg-1 urea, Urea + DCD @ 4000 mg kg-1 urea, Urea + DCD @ 8000 mg kg-1 urea, Urea + DCD @ 12000 mg kg-1 urea, Neem coated urea and Absolute control) replicated thrice. Significantly higher leaf area, leaf area index and dry matter production at different crop stages were recorded with application of Urea + HQ @ 12000 mg kg-1 urea compared to other treatments on pooled basis. Growth indices viz., absolute growth rate, crop growth rate, relative growth rate and net assimilation rate during different growth phase of aerobic rice were also higher under combined application of urease and nitrification inhibitors than sole urea or neem coated urea application.','Hydroquinone, Dicyanamide, Absolute growth rate, Crop growth rate, Net assimilation rate and Relative growth rate','The combined use of urease and nitrification inhibitors with urea proves to be a superior approach in promoting enhanced absolute growth rate, crop growth rate, relative growth rate and net assimilation rate in aerobic rice cultivation. The positive outcomes observed across these growth parameters indicate the potential of inhibitor-enhanced urea formulations for optimizing crop performance, thereby contributing to increased agricultural productivity and sustainability.','-','Mahantesh B. Nagangoudar, H.M. Jayadeva, B.S. Lalitha, D.C. Hanumanthappa, G.G. Kadalli and N. Umashankar (2023). Growth Attributes and Growth Indices of Aerobic Rice as Influenced by Urease and Nitrification Inhibitors. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 15(10): 1102-1107.'),(7847,'33','Analysis Planning Marketing Strategy Optimization of E-Commerce Platform in Business Data Analysis Role of Performance and Innovation','Pooja Giradkar','Analysis Planning Marketing Strategy Optimization of E-Commerce Platform in Business Data Analysis Role of Performance and Innovation-Pooja-46.pdf','',1,'In This paper to examine the effect of business strategies to improve the competitive advantages of small and medium enterprises (SMEs). Further, our study considers the importance of performance and innovation as mediating variables in the relationship between business strategies and competitive advantage. The sample of the study consists of 150 SMEs in the construction and real estate industry. Our findings show that business strategies have a positive impact on competitive advantage. Better business strategies improve the competitive advantage of SMEs. Further, business performance and innovation also mediate the relationship between business strategies and competitive advantages. These results provide evidence of the importance of performance and innovation to improve the competitive advantage. It is suggested that SMEs improve their performance and innovation capability to strengthen their competitive advantages.','Planning Marketing Strategy, E-Commerce, Business Data Analysis, Gross Domestic Product','In conclusion, issues that need to be considered in both the development process of rural e-commerce and future rural economic development include how to apply big data to the growth of rural e-commerce and promote its good development, as well as how to use big data technology to build an effective marketing system for rural e-commerce enterprises. In light of this, conducting thorough and long-lasting marketing research on rural e-commerce is imperative. Every corporation has a strategy, and the phrase \"strategic planning\" is used frequently by businesses. This aids in assessing how objectives can be met and how the business may grow and progress, and strategies for growing market shares in the face of escalating corporate competition. According to this theory, gaining a competitive edge can be accomplished through a variety of tactics, including sound business planning. However, the company\'s creative efforts to accomplish these objectives are inextricably linked to its operational performance, which is a resource activity that helps the business realize its performance and accomplishments. The operational and financial success of a firm can be used to gauge its accomplishments and performance, and the company\'s annual financial health can be used to gauge its financial performance. The criteria for success in running a business can be used to gauge operational performance. Organizational performance, which is a competitive advantage that serves as a tool to attain organizational goals—namely, an organizational performance that generates comparatively high profits—is necessary to achieve good operational performance.','-','-'),(7848,'168','Effect of Nutrition Education in Reducing Risks and Incidences of Heart Failure in Mahendragarh District of Haryana, India','Raveena, Urvashi Nandal and Rekha Yadav','Effect-of-Nutrition-Education-in-Reducing-Risks-and-Incidences-of-Heart-Failure-in-Mahendragarh-District-of-Haryana,-India-Urvashi-Nandal-202.pdf','',1,'This study was conducted on middle aged (minimum age 40 years) male and female population of Mahendragarh district, Haryana. All of the subjects n=160 had some type of cardiac heath issue. The study population was equally divided into experimental and control group, n=80 in each category. Nutritional counseling was imparted at 0 day, 30th day and 60th day. There was observed a significant enhancement in the study subjects after the end of each counseling session. This study results support that informative nutritional counseling can be an effective tool in bringing health and heart related awareness among general population irrespective of their gender/age/class/educational status. And such tools can be an effective means to save millions of lives of people, eliminate burden on the health care system of the country, can make people actually wealthy (both financially – less expenditure on medical lab tests and surgical procedures carried out in case of heart blockage/attack; and physically- a healthy heart will lead to a healthy body). Overall, it can be said that it can add years of health and wellness in life of all (normally healthy, at risk, heart patients).','Heart health, nutritional counseling, awareness, healthy lifestyle, knowledge gain','It can be concluded from the findings from the study that nutrition counseling can have a significant and beneficial effect on the knowledge levels of the experimental group, demonstrating a substantial increase across all knowledge periodic sessions. In contrast, the control group\'s knowledge levels remained relatively stagnant over the same period, highlighting the positive impact of nutrition counseling on enhancing knowledge among cardiac patients. On the contrary, in control group negligible changes were observed in knowledge levels over the same period, although to a lesser degree compared to the phase when the study began. The comparative results further validated research findings where in experimental group substantial augmentation was witnessed at all stages. In contrast, the control group exhibited minor changes in knowledge levels over the same period, which definitely raises an alarm indicating the importance of nutrition education about healthy eating/active lifestyle/deleterious effects of substance-liquor use among general masses of India including people in rural-remote area and those at the grass-root level. ','-','Raveena, Urvashi Nandal and Rekha Yadav (2023). Effect of Nutrition Education in Reducing Risks and Incidences of Heart Failure in Mahendragarh District of Haryana, India. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 15(10): 1108-1112.'),(7849,'168','Correlation Analysis of Quantitative Characters in Okra (Abelmoschus esculentus L. Moench)','Veeresh and Pampanna Y.','Correlation-Analysis-of-Quantitative-Characters-in-Okra-(Abelmoschus-esculentus-L.-Moench)-VEERESH-203.pdf','',1,'The present investigation was carried out at New Orchard, Main Agricultural Research Station, University of Agricultural Sciences, Raichur, during late Kharif 2021-22 using thirty-one okra genotypes and laid out in Randomized Block Design (RBD) with three replications. In okra fruit yield is dependent character and it controlled by many other characters. Fruit yield per plant had a positive and significant association with the number of fruits per plant, plant height, number of nodes per plant, internodal length, chlorophyll content, harvesting period, stem girth, fruit length, first flowering node, number of leaves per plant and leaf area index. Hence, these traits can be used as selection criteria in okra breeding for high yield.','Okra genotypes, Variability and Correlation','Fruit yield per plant had a positive and significant association with the number of fruits per plant, plant height, number of nodes per plant, internodal length, chlorophyll content, harvesting period, stem girth, fruit length, first flowering node, number of leaves per plant and leaf area index. Hence, these traits can be used as selection criteria in okra breeding for high yield.','-','Veeresh and Pampanna Y. (2023). Correlation Analysis of Quantitative Characters in Okra (Abelmoschus esculentus L. Moench). Biological Forum – An International Journal, 15(10): 1113-1115.'),(7850,'169','Response of Inorganic Fertilizers in Conjunction with Organic Sources on Performance of Drought Tolerant Direct Seeded Rice (Oryza sativa L.) in Central India','Narendra Kumar, B.K. Tiwari, R.K. Tiwari, Mrinali Gajbhiye and Jyoti Kushawah','Response-of-Inorganic-Fertilizers-in-Conjunction-with-Organic-Sources-on-Performance-of-Drought-Tolerant-Direct-Seeded-Rice-(Oryza-sativa-L.)-in-Central-India-Narendra-Kumar-2-7290.pdf','',1,'Rice is the major source of carbohydrate in the human nutrient which is consumed by 75 % of the global population. Crop needs a balanced supply of nutrients for its optimum growth. In context of current climate change scenario, lowering negative impact of inorganic fertilizer on soil health, use of organic fertilizer along with biofertilizer is essential to provide optimum yields. Supplementing soil with organic sources of nutrients requires large amount of manures, also it takes time to release nutrients in the soil. in the present study combining the inorganic fertilizers with organic fertilizer could support to achieve sustainable production with optimum yield. A field experiment was conducted during the rainy season of 2019-20 under all India coordinated project for dryland agriculture at Kuthlia farm, Rewa, JNKVV, (M.P.). Nine treatment combinations were laid out in randomized block design with three replications. The results indicated that the treatment T9; 50% RDN through fertilizer + 50% RDN through compost + Seed treated with Azotobacter @ 10g kg-1 seed registered maximum plant height (66 cm), no. of tillers (370.33 m-2). The yield attributes viz., number of productive tillers m-2, total number of grains panicle-1, panicle weight, grain yield panicle-1 and test weight were observed a strong and positive correlation with the grain yield of rice. The regression analysis, concluded strong, positive linear relationship of growth and yield attributes with grain yield of rice. The grain yield (3.80 t ha-1) and harvested index (0.37) were maximum in the treatment T9 however, straw yield (6.50 t ha-1) was maximum under T2; 100% recommended dose of NPK through fertilizer (100 kg N+40 kg P2O5 +40 kg K2O ha-1). The treatment T9 fetched maximum economic returns. The investigation concludes that the treatment T9 increased growth and yield of rice. Furthermore, adoption of INM has a positive impact on soil health and sustaining optimum crop productivity.','Drought tolerance rice, integrated nutrient management, compost, inorganic fertilizer, growth parameters, yield attributes','From the study it may be inferred that application of 50% RDN through fertilizer + 50% RDN through compost + Seed treated with Azotobacter @ 10g kg-1 seed resulted in more growth, yield attributes, yield, and economics of rice. A strong and positive relationship was observed between growth and yield attributes with grain yield. Integrated use of Inorganic fertilizer in combination with organic sources and biofertilizer can play a key role in improving fertility status of soil thereby a boon to improve yield and yield attributes of drought tolerant direct seeded rice.','-','Narendra Kumar, B.K. Tiwari, R.K. Tiwari, Mrinali Gajbhiye and Jyoti Kushawah (2023). Response of Inorganic Fertilizers in Conjunction with Organic Sources on Performance of Drought Tolerant Direct Seeded Rice (Oryza sativa L.) in Central India. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 15(11): 06-12.'),(7851,'168','Effect of Indole-3-Butyric Acid (IBA), Cow urine and Vermiwash during Winter Season on Tomato Stem Cuttings','Om Prakash, K.D. Ameta, A.S. Rathore, Yashpal Choudhary and Saif Ali Khan','Effect-of-Indole-3-Butyric-Acid-(IBA),-Cow-urine-and-Vermiwash-during-Winter-Season-on-Tomato-Stem-Cuttings-OM-PRAKASH-204.pdf','',1,'Layout was followed with control, IBA (50 ppm, 100 ppm and 150 ppm), cow urine and vermiwash (5%, 10% and 15%) as treatments which were replicated three times. Observations were taken at 15 and 30 days after planting (DAP). Maximum shoot growth at 15 DAP were observed for number of leaves at cow urine 10%, fresh weight of cutting at IBA 100 ppm, shoot length and shoot diameter at vermiwash 10%. Maximum shoot growth at 30DAPwere observed for number of leaves at IBA 150 ppm, fresh weight of cutting at IBA 100 ppm, shoot length and shoot diameter at vermiwash 10%. The majority of root parameters i.e., number of roots per cutting, length of root, fresh and dry weight of roots, root volume as well as survival percentage and chlorophyll content observed to be influenced by IBA 100 ppm. Tomato cuttings were propagated using various treatments but overall best result was seen with IBA treatments.','IBA, cow urine, vermiwash, tomato, cutting, propagation','From the investigation of the above-mentioned research problem, we can conclude that tomato propagation can be done with side stem cutting. The best result for the highest survival percentage and root growth was obtained from treatment T3 (IBA 100 ppm), However, shoot growth responses can be observed for most of the treatment.','-','Om Prakash, K.D. Ameta, A.S. Rathore, Yashpal Choudhary and Saif Ali Khan (2023). Effect of Indole-3-Butyric Acid (IBA), Cow urine and Vermiwash during Winter Season on Tomato Stem Cuttings. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 15(10): 1116-1120.'),(7852,'168','Exploiting the Genetic Variability of Quality Traits in Advanced Breeding Lines of Rice (Oryza sativa L.)','Anil Kumar Gangireddy, Sreevalli Devi Muga, Sreelakshmi Chintala, Madhusudhan Puchakayala, Lavanya Kumari Padherla and Lakshmi Narayana Reddy Vemireddy ','Exploiting-the-Genetic-Variability-of-Quality-Traits-in-Advanced-Breeding-Lines-of-Rice-(Oryza-sativa-L.)-G-Anil-Kumar-205.pdf','',1,'In this study genetic variability parameters were studied in 70 rice genotypes (fifty three advanced breeding lines along with seventeen parents which includes check varieties) for thirteen quality traits during summer 2022-23 at Agricultural research Station, Nellore. Variance studies indicated incredibly substantial differences for all quality traits across all advanced breeding lines, indicating the presence of a sizable degree of variance. (The estimates of PCV and GCV were high for the alkali spreading value and gel consistency. The estimates of heritability and genetic advance as per cent of mean were high for the characters viz., Kernel length, Kernel length breadth ratio and Kernel length after cooking, Alkali spreading value and Gel consistency indicating the influence of additive gene action in the inheritance of these traits hence simple selection would be rewarding. The ubiquity of additive gene activity, when revealed, opened the door for additional enhancement by selection.','Rice, genetic variability, additive gene activity and quality traits','In this current study, the characters that showed high heritability coupled with high genetic advance investigation viz., Kernel length, Kernel length breadth ratio and Kernel length after cooking, Alkali spreading value and Gel consistency are controlled by additive gene action can be improved through simple or progeny selection methods while the characters which showed high heritability coupled with moderate or low genetic advance can be improved by intermitting superior genotypes of segregating population developed from combination breeding.','-','Anil Kumar Gangireddy, Sreevalli Devi Muga, Sreelakshmi Chintala, Madhusudhan Puchakayala, Lavanya Kumari Padherla and Lakshmi Narayana Reddy Vemireddy (2023). Exploiting the Genetic Variability of Quality Traits in Advanced Breeding Lines of Rice (Oryza sativa L.). Biological Forum – An International Journal, 15(10): 1121-1123.'),(7853,'168','Combining Ability Analysis in Linseed (Linum usitatissimum L.)','Jadala Ravali, Beena M. Nair, Rani Jadhav, Prema R. Manapure and Achal B. Jagzape ','Combining-Ability-Analysis-in-Linseed-(Linum-usitatissimum-L.)-Jadala-Ravali-206.pdf','',1,'The present research was executed for evaluation of combining ability analysis using 12 lines and 3 testers in a line × tester mating design. The data on mean squares due to the parents and their crosses were highly significant for all nine characters studied i.e. days to 50% flowering (on plot basis), days to maturity (on plot basis), plant height (cm), number of branches plant-1, number of capsule plant-1, 1000 seed weight (g), seed yield plant-1 (g), bud fly infestation (%), alternaria blight infestation (%) indicating the presence of considerable genetic variation among the parents and their crosses for the characters studied. Means squares due to lines were significant for all the characters except days to 50% flowering and alternaria blight infestation (%) indicating substantial genetic variability for general combining ability among lines. The mean squares due to testers were significant for all the characters except days to 50% flowering, days to maturity, number of branches plant-1 and alternaria blight infestation (%) indicating the considerable genetic variability for general combining ability among testers. The line × tester interactions were significant for all the characters except days to 50% maturity indicating genetic variability for specific combining ability among crosses. Among the 36 crosses studied IC0498517 × IC0499191, IC0499201 × IC0499191, Neela × IC0499156 were found most promising as they possessed high mean performance for yield along with negative significant SCA for seed yield plant-1, capsules plant-1, 1000 seed weight and bud fly resistance. Hence the hybrids identified from the present study were exploited further to obtain transgressive segregants for seed yield improvement in Lin seed crop.','Linseed, combining ability, GCA, SCA','The presence of negative SCA effects for yield components in the above crosses table 6 indicates the presence of predominant role of additive gene action for yield components which is general situation observed in autogamous crops. These crosses therefore found to be the best crosses which could be exploited to the next generation for their use in varietal breeding programme in linseed.','-','Jadala Ravali, Beena M. Nair, Rani Jadhav, Prema R. Manapure and Achal B. Jagzape (2023). Combining Ability Analysis in Linseed (Linum usitatissimum L.). Biological Forum – An International Journal, 15(10): 1124-1128.'),(7854,'168','Pathogenic variability of Phytophthora spp. inciting Bud Rot of Coconut in Kerala','Aswathi M.S. and Radhakrishnan N.V.','Pathogenic-variability-of-Phytophthora-spp.-inciting-Bud-Rot-of-Coconut-in-Kerala-Aswathi-MS-207.pdf','',1,'Bud rot caused by Phytophthora spp. is one of the most destructive diseases of coconut. The management of the disease is a major challenge due to the frequent development of pathogenic variability within the pathogens. It is necessary to comprehend the pathogenic heterogeneity among various pathogen isolates in order to design appropriate management strategies. Hence, the present study evaluated the variability in pathogenicity of thirteen different isolates of Phytophthora spp. isolated from coconut bud rot samples. Ten isolates from three different agroecological units of Kerala viz., AEU 8 (southern laterites), AEU 9 (south central laterites) and AEU 11 (northern laterites) and three from Central Plantation Crops Research Institute, Kasaragod were tested for their pathogenicity on detached spear leaves and nuts of West Coast Tall variety of coconut under in vitro. Two different methods viz., inoculation of mycelium as culture disc and zoospore suspension were employed and lesion size developed on nuts and leaves were recorded. The Phytophthora isolates recorded significant difference in the lesion size at regular intervals. The isolate 8A (P. palmivora) obtained from southern laterites was the most virulent one. The species P. palmivora and P. nicotianae were found to be almost similar in aggressiveness on coconut. The comparison of virulence between the isolates from different agroecological units indicated that, isolates from southern region of Kerala were found to be more pathogenic than northern region. The current investigation confirmed the presence of highly virulent Phytophthora spp. isolates in Kerala, which can pose an imminent risk to the coconut cultivation of the state.','Phytophthora, pathogenicity, coconut, bud rot, variability','Hence, the present study suggest that isolates of Phytophthora spp. differ in their ability to cause the bud rot disease in coconut. Considerable pathogenic variability was observable among the isolates from same agroecological units of the state. Being the primary focus of breeding for resistance, the information on presence of pathogenic diversity within the species is significant. The highly heterogeneous nature of the isolates in their pathogenicity can pose a challenge in adopting the management practices and finally in the cultivation of coconut. Even though the isolates used in the study are less in number, the results with these isolates can be considered as a valuable basic information on the pathogenic variability among the Phytophthora isolates of Kerala. ','-','Aswathi M.S. and Radhakrishnan N.V. (2023). Pathogenic variability of Phytophthora spp. inciting Bud Rot of Coconut in Kerala. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 15(10): 1129-1135.'),(7855,'168','Weed Dynamics of Semi-Dry Rice (Oryza sativa) under different Nutrient and Weed Management Practices in Central Telangana Zone','K. Naganjali, K.P. Vani, M. Madhavi, S. Narender Reddy and M.M. Kadasiddappa','Weed-Dynamics-of-Semi-Dry-Rice-(Oryza-sativa)-under-different-Nutrient-and-Weed-Management-Practices-in-Central-Telangana-Zone-K-Naganjali-208.pdf','',1,'A field study was carried out in the Kharif seasons of 2016 and 2017 in Aswaraopet, Telangana State, to assess the appropriate methods for management of nutrients and controlling weeds among different weed management practices under semi-dry system of rice cultivation. The experiment was designed in a split-plot format, implementing various approaches for nutrient and weed management on sandy clay loam soil. It was found that the combination of 75% of the recommended dose of fertilizer (RDF) and 25% of nitrogen from vermicompost resulted in the lowest weed density and weed dry matter production, while simultaneously achieving the highest rice grain yield. In addition, the application of Bispyribac sodium 10 SC (25 g ha-1) as a pre-emergence treatment, followed by Pyrazosulfuron-ethyl 10 WP (25 g ha-1) and 2,4-D 80 WP (0.5 kg ha-1), in combination with hand weeding at 50 days after sowing (DAS), significantly reduced weed density and dry weight, ultimately leading to a higher yield of rice. Nevertheless, the most effective weed control efficiency was observed with the application of Bispyribac sodium 10 SC (25 g ha-1) as pre-emergence treatment, followed by Pyrazosulfuron-ethyl 10 WP (25 g ha-1) and 2,4-D 80 WP (0.5 kg ha-1), along with hand weeding at 50 DAS.','Herbicides, Nutrients, Semi-dry rice, Weed, Yield','It can be recommended that higher grain yield was observed with 75% RDF + 25% N through vermicompost and Bispyribac sodium 10 SC 25 g ha-1 fb (Pyrazosulfuron ethyl 10 WP 25 g ha-1 + 2, 4-D 80 WP 0.5 kg a.i ha-1) + HW at 50 DAS recorded lower weed density, weed dry matter and depletion of nutrient by weeds (N, P and K) under semi dry rice cultivation in the Central Telangana Zone.','-','K. Naganjali, K.P. Vani, M. Madhavi, S. Narender Reddy and M.M. Kadasiddappa (2023). Weed Dynamics of Semi Dry Rice (Oryza sativa) under different Nutrient and Weed Management Practices in Central Telangana Zone. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 15(10): 1136-1141.'),(7856,'169','In vitro efficacy of Microbial Consortia Against Tomato Root Knot Nematode [Meloidogyne incognita (Kofoid and White)]','Nivedita, Sumangala Koulagi, Prashantha A., Vijaya Kumar Rathod, Vijaymahantesh and Iranna Hejjegar ','In vitro efficacy of Microbial Consortia Against Tomato Root Knot Nematode [Meloidogyne incognita (Kofoid and White)]-Nivedita-3.pdf','',4,'Tomato (Solanum lycopersicum L.) is known as the poor man’s orange and it is extensively grown worldwide. It is affected by various diseases like fungal, bacterial, viral and nematodes. Among these, root knot nematodes (RKN) which is the most important plant parasitic pathogen that causes significant crop loss alone or in combination with fungal and bacterial wilt pathogens. Unscientific usage of pesticides aggravates densely virulent strains, apart from polluting the environment and causing human health hazards. The use of different combinations of biocontrol agents with respect to consortia is effectively managed with multicidal action against the target pathogen. In this present investigation, the study was carried out to explore the activities of microbial consortia against root-knot nematode of tomato under in vitro conditions. The experiment was carried out at the Department of Plant Pathology, KRCCH, Arabhavi. The 10 treatments were studied with different combinations of biocontrol agents. The results of our investigation show that among the tested bioagents T9 (Trichoderma harzianum + Metarhizium anisophile + Purpureocillium lilacinum + Beauveria bassiana + Bacillus subtilis + Pseudomonas fluorescens) exhibited the minimum egg hatching per cent of 55.65 at 96 hours of exposure period when compared to T10 (untreated control) recorded 11.85 per cent of egg hatching.','Bio-control agents, egg hatching, microbial consortia, root knot nematode','The present findings have demonstrated that the different bioconsortia treatments showed the inhibitory effect on root knot nematode egg hatching under in vitro condition. All tested consortia treatments recorded minimum egg hatching per cent (55.50-85.00) over untreated control (97.50) at 96 hours after incubation. Among the treatments, minimum egg hatching per cent was recorded in T9 (T. harzianum + B.subtilis + P. lilacinum + B. bassiana+ M. anisophile + P. fluroscence) with 55.50 per cent over T10 (untreated control) with 97.50 per cent. ','-','Nivedita, Sumangala Koulagi, Prashantha A., Vijaya Kumar Rathod, Vijaymahantesh and Iranna Hejjegar (2023). In vitro efficacy of Microbial Consortia Against Tomato Root Knot Nematode [Meloidogyne incognita (Kofoid and White)]. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 15(11): 13-16.'),(7857,'169','Heterosis Studies for Growth, Flower and Yield Characters in Brinjal (Solanum melongena L.)','Rajashree, Chandrakant S. Kamble, Shantappa Tirakannanavar, Vilas D. Gasti, Sandhyarani Nishani, Sumangala Koulagi and Arunkumar Bhavidoddi','Heterosis-Studies-for-Growth,-Flower-and-Yield-Characters-in-Brinjal-(Solanum-melongena-L.)-Rajashree-4.pdf','',4,'Brinjal (Solanum melongena L.) also known as eggplant or aubergine, is an easily cultivated plant belongs to the family Solanaceae. India is regarded as the primary centre of origin. Whereas, China as the secondary centre of origin. Despite the crop potential, economic and its medicinal use the present study was undertaken using twelve lines and three testers to develop 36 F1 hybrids in L × T (Line × Tester) pattern. Evaluation of hybrids along with their parents revealed that the cross combinations KRCCH-11 × GL, KRCCH-12 × GL and KRCCH-10 × GL showed highest positive heterosis, which were supercilious for earliness, yield parameters and KRCCH-11 × BL and KRCCH-11 × GL expressed superior for quality parameters resulting as best hybrids. Based on its yield potential and favoured earliness characteristics, the KRCCH-11 × GL hybrid was chosen as the best hybrid out of 36 cross combinations, with a yield of 73.34 t/ha. Hence the best hybrids are recommended for commercial exploitation of heterosis.','Eggplant, hybrids, per se performance, Heterosis, Best parent heterosis, Standard heterosis','Based on mean performance, the top five promising crosses for marketable yield per plant were KRCCH-11 × GL (3.34 kg), KRCCH-12 × GL (3.02 kg), KRCCH-11 × BL (2.73 kg), KRCCH-12 × BL (2.72 kg) and KRCCH-10 × GL (2.71 kg). The hybrids namely, KRCCH-11 × GL, KRCCH-11 × BL, KRCCH-12 × GL, KRCCH-12 × BL were best for earliness and yield parameters, the hybrids namely KRCCH-10 × GL, KRCCH-10 × BL, KRCCH-9 × GL were best for quality parameters and also expressed significant and desirable best parent heterosis and standard heterosis for the major traits. Thus, these hybrids can be exploited in practical plan breeding for selection of better transgressive segregants and they may also be exploited through heterosis breeding programme in order to achieve hybrids with high fruit yield.','-','Rajashree, Chandrakant S. Kamble, Shantappa Tirakannanavar, Vilas D. Gasti, Sandhyarani Nishani, Sumangala Koulagi and Arunkumar Bhavidoddi (2023). Heterosis Studies for Growth, Flower and Yield Characters in Brinjal (Solanum melongena L.). Biological Forum – An International Journal, 15(11): 17-24.'),(7858,'168','Combining Ability and Gene Action Studies for Yield and its Attributed Traits Over Different Environment in Brinjal (Solanum melongena L.)','Hardik R. Patel, Akshay I. Patel, Harshita R. Patel, Rajesh J. Panchal and Rakesh S. Ganvit ','Combining-Ability-and-Gene-Action-Studies-for-Yield-and-its-Attribited-Traits-Over-Different-Environment--in-Brinjal-(Solanum-melongena-L.)-Hardik-R-Patel-209.pdf','',1,'The present investigation was carried out by using eight diverse parents for appraisal of combing ability in brinjal. Parents were crossed in half diallel fashion to obtain 28 hybrids. Combining ability is an assessment of genotypes on the basis of their offspring performance in some definite mating design. A parent that performs well by its own performance might not always result in better hybrids when combined with another parent. So, performing combining analysis is necessary to identification of better combination of parents. Analysis of variance for combining ability revealed highly significant differences for mean square of GCA and SCA for all studied characters except days to 50 % flowering indicating that both additive and non additive gene action were important for inheritance of these characters. The ratio of σ2gca/σ2sca was lower than unity for all the traits except days to 50 % flowering indicate the pre dominant role of non additive gene action. The GCA effect showed that the parents viz., NB-20-7 and GJB 3 observed as good general combiner for fruit yield per plant while for the SCA effect, hybrids viz., NB-20-3 × NB-20-8 at Navsari (L1), NB-20-3 × GJB 3 at Waghai (L2) and NB-20-4 × NB-20-9 at Bardoli (L3) act as good specific combiner for fruit yield per plant.','Combing ability, GCA, SCA, Half diallel, Fruit yield ','Studies on combining ability help to identify the best parents and provide genetic information on the inheritance pattern of characters. Parents viz., NB-20-7 and GJB 3 had good general combining ability for fruit yield per plant at all three locations. Among the hybrids, NB-20-3 × NB-20-8 at Navsari (L1), NB-20-3 × GJB 3 at Waghai (L2) and NB-20-4 × NB-20-9 at Bardoli (L3) had good specific combining ability. An analysis for the specific combining ability effect revealed that none of the hybrid was found positive and significant SCA effect for fruit yield per plant (kg) in all the three locations.','-','Hardik R. Patel, Akshay I. Patel, Harshita R. Patel, Rajesh J. Panchal and Rakesh S. Ganvit (2023). Combining Ability and Gene Action Studies for Yield and its Attribited Traits Over Different Environment in Brinjal (Solanum melongena L.). Biological Forum – An International Journal, 15(10): 1142-1151.'),(7859,'168','A Study on the extent of Uzi Fly infestation on Muga Cocoons in the Districts of Lakhimpur and Dhemaji of Assam','Dipankar Brahma, Rushali Chakraborty, Roshmi Borah Dutta, Vasanth V. and Nilav Ranjan Bora ','A-Study-on-the-extent-of-Uzi-Fly-infestation-on-Muga-Cocoons-in-the-Districts-of-Lakhimpur-and-Dhemaji-of-Assam-Dipankar-Brahma-210.pdf','',1,'Since muga silkworms are reared outdoors, a variety of pests and diseases attacks the silkworm frequently. The Uzi fly, or Exorista sorbillans, is a parasitic dipteran fly that lays its eggs mostly on late intar muga silkworm larvae. The Uzi fly\'s maggots enter the larval body after hatching from the eggs and consume the silkworm\'s tissue and fat bodies. After emerging from the cocoons, the mature maggots pupate in the grainage hall. The study aims to investigate the prevalence of Uzi fly infestation on Muga cocoons in Lakhimpur and Dhemaji districts of Assam and analyse the factors contributing to the infestation. A total of 500 cocoons were collected during all the four crop seasons from different muga rearing areas of both the districts and the percentage of infestation was recorded. The study found that the infestation rate varied among seasons, with the highest infestation recorded during Chotua crop (March-April) at 46.8% and the lowest during Kotia crop (Oct.-Nov.) at 20.4%. Meteorological data, such as maximum and minimum temperature, relative humidity, rainfall, and number of rainy days, were also recorded and analyzed to identify the factors contributing to Uzi fly infestation. Correlation coefficient analysis showed that temperature and rainfall significantly influenced the Uzi fly infestation. With the increase in temperature and rainfall the infestation of Uzi fly increases drastically. Because silkworm harvests are available year-round, the uzi fly can persist and establish itself in Muga rearing areas. Difficulties and lack of control measures also play a major role in the infestation of Uzi fly. ','Muga, Uzi fly, Chotua crop, Kotia crop, temperature, rainfall, Assam','In conclusion, Muga silk holds a significant place in the Sericulture industry of Assam, and the demand for it has been rapidly expanding in recent years. However, the production of Muga silk is often hindered by various pests and diseases, such as the Uzi fly, which infests the Muga cocoons and causes significant damage. This infestation results in the loss of valuable silk and affects the livelihood of the farmers who rely on the Muga silk production. Therefore, the study of the prevalence of Uzi fly infestation on Muga cocoons in Lakhimpur and Dhemaji districts of Assam and the anlaysis of the factors contributing to the infestation are crucial to understand the severity of the problem and develop effective strategies to control it. The findings of this study can be used to formulate policies and interventions to mitigate the damage caused by Uzi fly infestation and ensure sustainable Muga silk production in Assam.','-','Dipankar Brahma, Rushali Chakraborty, Roshmi Borah Dutta, Vasanth V. and Nilav Ranjan Bora (2023). A Study on the extent of Uzi Fly infestation on Muga Cocoons in the Districts of Lakhimpur and Dhemaji of Assam. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 15(10): 1152-1157.'),(7860,'169','Heterosis Studies for Growth, Flower and Yield Characters in Brinjal\r\n (Solanum melongena L.)\r\n','Rajashree, Chandrakant S. Kamble, Shantappa Tirakannanavar, Vilas D. Gasti, Sandhyarani Nishani, Sumangala Koulagi and Arunkumar Bhavidoddi ','Heterosis-Studies-for-Growth,-Flower-and-Yield-Characters-in-Brinjal-(Solanum-melongena-L.)-Rajashree-3.pdf','',1,'Brinjal (Solanum melongena L.) also known as eggplant or aubergine, is an easily cultivated plant belongs to the family Solanaceae. India is regarded as the primary centre of origin. Whereas, China as the secondary centre of origin. Despite the crop potential, economic and its medicinal use the present study was undertaken using twelve lines and three testers to develop 36 F1 hybrids in L × T (Line × Tester) pattern. Evaluation of hybrids along with their parents revealed that the cross combinations KRCCH-11 × GL, KRCCH-12 × GL and KRCCH-10 × GL showed highest positive heterosis, which were supercilious for earliness, yield parameters and KRCCH-11 × BL and KRCCH-11 × GL expressed superior for quality parameters resulting as best hybrids. Based on its yield potential and favoured earliness characteristics, the KRCCH-11 × GL hybrid was chosen as the best hybrid out of 36 cross combinations, with a yield of 73.34 t/ha. Hence the best hybrids are recommended for commercial exploitation of heterosis.','Eggplant, hybrids, per se performance, Heterosis, Best parent heterosis, Standard heterosis','Based on mean performance, the top five promising crosses for marketable yield per plant were KRCCH-11 × GL (3.34 kg), KRCCH-12 × GL (3.02 kg), KRCCH-11 × BL (2.73 kg), KRCCH-12 × BL (2.72 kg) and KRCCH-10 × GL (2.71 kg). The hybrids namely, KRCCH-11 × GL, KRCCH-11 × BL, KRCCH-12 × GL, KRCCH-12 × BL were best for earliness and yield parameters, the hybrids namely KRCCH-10 × GL, KRCCH-10 × BL, KRCCH-9 × GL were best for quality parameters and also expressed significant and desirable best parent heterosis and standard heterosis for the major traits. Thus, these hybrids can be exploited in practical plan breeding for selection of better transgressive segregants and they may also be exploited through heterosis breeding programme in order to achieve hybrids with high fruit yield.','-','Rajashree, Chandrakant S. Kamble, Shantappa Tirakannanavar, Vilas D. Gasti, Sandhyarani Nishani, Sumangala Koulagi and Arunkumar Bhavidoddi (2023). Heterosis Studies for Growth, Flower and Yield Characters in Brinjal (Solanum melongena L.). Biological Forum – An International Journal, 15(11): 13-20.'),(7861,'168','Morphological Diversity of Tomato Germplasm (Lycopersicum esculentum L.) for Yield Traits','Durga Hemanth Kumar Ch, Narm Naidu L., Ravindra Babu M., Rajani A., Gopal K. and Paratpara Rao M. ','Morphological-Diversity-of-Tomato-Germplasm-(Lycopersicum-esculentum-L.)-for-Yield-Traits-Durga-Hemanth-Kumar-Ch-211.pdf','',1,'The goal of this study was to determine the genetic diversity of 60 tomato genotypes for fruit yield and related traits using a field experiment in an RBD with three replications. The Mahalanobis distance (D2) was used to calculate the genetic distance between clusters. Cluster analysis revealed that the genotypes were divided into 11 distinct clusters, with cluster I having the most genotypes (43), and clusters II through XI being monogenetic. The inter-cluster distances ranged from 9698.09 (between clusters II and IX) to 47564.45 (between clusters IX and X). Intra-cluster distances ranged between 0.00 (in monogenotypic clusters) and 10787.58 (in cluster I). The number of fruits per plant contributed the most to genetic divergence (17.40%), followed by average fruit weight. Seven lines (VRSL 8, VRSL 18, VRSL 24, VRSL 44, VRSL 66, VRSL 87, and VRSL 104) were chosen as potential parents for hybridization to produce F1 hybrids and study heterosis and combining ability in tomato based on genetic distance and resistance to ToLCV.','Genetic distance, divergence, hybridization','The genetic diversity was measured using Mahalanobis D2 statistics for characters, and the clustering of genotypes resulted in the development of eleven groups. Clusters IX and X had the greatest inter-cluster distance (47564.45), followed by clusters II and X (44457.03). Cluster II and Cluster V had the shortest inter-cluster distance (9988.90). Among the features, the number of fruits per plant (17.40%) and average fruit weight (15.37%) contributed the most to divergence. As a result, the breeder selects genotypes of clusters as parents that have a large inter-cluster distance between them in order to create recombinants and desirable segregates in the crop improvement plan. Maximum percent contribution was observed for no of fruit/plant followed by average fruit weight, pericarp thickness,) days to first fruit harvest, leaf curl virus incidence, no of primary branches/plant and no of flowers/cluster.','-','Durga Hemanth Kumar Ch, Narm Naidu L., Ravindra Babu M., Rajani A., Gopal K. and Paratpara Rao M. (2023). Morphological Diversity of Tomato Germplasm (Lycopersicum esculentum L.) for Yield Traits. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 15(10): 1158-1161.'),(7862,'168','Effect of Calcium on the Growth and Yield of Tomato (Solanum lycopersicum L.)','Shubham Chauhan, Deependra Yadav, Sandeep Kumar, Ravinder Kumar and Alok Kumar ','Effect-of-Calcium-on-the-Growth-and-Yield-of-Tomato-(Solanum-lycopersicum-L.)-Shubham-Chauhan-212.pdf','',1,'The present experiment entitled “Effect of calcium on the growth and yield of Tomato (Solanum lycopersicum L.)” was conducted at the Research Farm, School of Agriculture, Abhilashi University, Mandi (H.P.) during kharif, 2023. The experiment was laid out in Randomized Block Design (RBD) with seven treatments and three replications. The result revealed that the value of Nitrogen (176.57 kg), Phosphorus (22.57 kg) and Potassium (143.69 kg) were recorded highest in T7 (RDF + Foliar application of calcium @ 0.5% at 45 and 75 Days after transplanting). From the result, it has been observed that plant height (92.17 cm and 124.89 cm) at 45 and 60 DAT in T3 (RDF + Basal dose of calcium @ 10 kg/ha) and T7 (RDF + Foliar application of calcium @ 0.5% at 45 and 75 Days after transplanting), number of leaves (50.66 and 127.33) at 45 and 60 DAT in T3 (RDF + Basal dose of calcium @ 10 kg/ha) and T5 (RDF + Foliar application of calcium @ 0.25% at 45 and 75 Days after transplanting) and fresh and dry weight of leaves (74.44 g and 17.78) at harvest in T5 (RDF + Foliar application of calcium @ 0.25% at 45 and 75 Days after transplanting) recorded desirable in the respective treatments. The parameters of the yield viz., fruits per plant and effective plant population of tomato were studied. Maximum yield per plot (37.83 kg), yield per hectare (70.05 t/ha) and effective plant population at harvest (19.33) were found in T7 (RDF + Foliar application of calcium @ 0.5% at 45 and 75 Days after transplanting). Among the treatments, the maximum cost of cultivation (₹274492), gross return (₹2101500) and net return (₹1835108) were recorded in treatment T7 (RDF + Foliar application of calcium @ 0.5% at 45 and 75 Days after transplanting).','Tomato, calcium, growth, yield and treatments','From the investigation of the study, it may be concluded that among the different treatments, T7 (RDF + Foliar application of calcium @ 0.5% at 45 and 75 Days after transplanting) showed significant positive effect on growth and yield parameters as well as soil and economics as recorded maximum values of gross and net returns. Hence this treatment can be recommended for the farmers of mid hill zone.','-','Shubham Chauhan, Deependra Yadav, Sandeep Kumar, Ravinder Kumar and Alok Kumar (2023). Effect of Calcium on the Growth and Yield of Tomato (Solanum lycopersicum L.). Biological Forum – An International Journal, 15(10): 1162-1166.'),(7863,'168','Per se Performance of Hybrids and Parents for various Growth and Yield characteristics in Tomato (Solanum lycopersicon L.)','Durga Hemanth Kumar Ch, Narm Naidu L., Ravindra Babu M., Rajani A., Gopal K. and Paratpara Rao M. ','Per-se-Performance-of-Hybrids-and-Parents-for-various-Growth-and-Yield-characteristics-in-Tomato-(Solanum-lycopersicon-L.)-Durga-Hemanth-Kumar-Ch-213.pdf','',1,'An experiment was conducted in Kharif 2021 at P.G. Research Farm, College of Horticulture, Venkataramannagudem, to examine the yield characteristics of parents and hybrids as a whole. When it came to yield and yield-contributing traits, such as fruit yield/plant (5.59) and number of fruits/plant (67.45), VRSL 24 × VRSL 87 was the best genotype. The genotype VRSL 66 × VRSL 104 exhibited a significant advantage in plant height (111.89) and the highest number of primary branches per plant (11.96) compared to VRSL 18 × VRSL 104, which had a higher average fruit weight (88.71). In terms of fruit diameter and length, the genotype VRSL 18 × VRSL 44 was found to be superior (5.67 and5.70). The high yielding hybrids be utilized as commercial varieties after necessary multilocation trials.','Tomato, mean, hybrids, per se performance','Considering the mean performance, four superior hybrids for fruit yield viz., The identified promising crosses (VRSL 24 × VRSL 87, VRSL 8 × VRSL 87, VRSL 18 × VRSL 87 and VRSL 87 × VRSL 104) could be further evaluated in comparison with commercial hybrids in multilocational trails to confirm their potentiality and to know their stability over different agroclimatic situations. Therefore, using the identified superior cross in additional improvement studies using different breeding strategies is recommended.','-','Durga Hemanth Kumar Ch, Narm Naidu L., Ravindra Babu M., Rajani A., Gopal K. and Paratpara Rao M. (2023). Per se Performance of Hybrids and Parents for various Growth and Yield characteristics in Tomato (Solanum lycopersicon L.). Biological Forum – An International Journal, 15(10): 1167-1169.'),(7864,'168','Study on Biology and Feeding Potential of Three Striped Ladybird Beetle, Brumoides suturalis (Fab.) on Cotton Mealybug, Phenacoccus solenopsis Tinsley','B. Shailaja and S.K. Mandal','Study-on-Biology-and-Feeding-Potential-of-Three-Striped-Ladybird-Beetle,-Brumoides-suturalis-(Fab.)-on-Cotton-Mealybug,-Phenacoccus-solenopsis-Tinsley-B-Shailaja-214.pdf','',1,'Three striped lady bird beetle, Brumoides suturalis (Fab.) found to be a voracious feeder of different stages of mealybugs on agricultural and horticultural crops. The larvae and adults of this beetles feed and give good management of mealybugs. So, a laboratory study was conducted at Bidhan Chandra Krishi Viswavidyalaya, Mohanpur, Nadia, West Bengal to study the biology and feeding potential of Brumoides suturalis (Fab.) on P. solenopsis. The results showed that a single female laid 137-192(av. 169.10 ± 14.91) eggs in 27 – 36(av. 32.40 ± 3.10) days. This stage lasted for 3-4 (av. 3.70 ± 0.48) days. The total larval stage in B. suturalis occupied 12 - 16 (av. 13.00 ± 1.74) days during which the grub passed through four instars. The adult beetle emerged out after a pupal period of 4 – 5 (av. 4.20 ± 0.42) days. The total life cycle from egg to adult emergence took 19 - 25 (av. 20.90 ± 2.64) days. The male and female ratio was 1:1.40 and adult lived for 11 – 38 (av. 23.10 ± 8.56) days. During their development first, second, third and fourth instar larvae B. suturalis consumed a total of 20.80 ± 4.39, 64.99 ± 11.99, 107.40 ± 10.73 and 139.80 ± 13.10 eggs of the prey, P. solenopsis in 2 - 3, 3 - 4, 4 - 5 and 3 - 4 days of their duration. Meanwhile, the larvae of B. suturalis fed on nymphs of P. solenopsis the first, second, third and fourth instar larvae they consumed 6.20 ± 1.23, 24.60 ± 4.43, 66.80 ± 6.70 and 78.80 ± 6.14 nymphs in 2 - 3, 3 - 4, 3 - 4 and 3 - 4 days, respectively. When the larvae of B. suturalis fed on P. solenopsis it consumed a total of 332.99 ± 40.21 eggs and 176.40 ± 18.50 nymphs in its larval period.','Three striped ladybird beetle, fecundity, adult longevity, P. solenopsis','The results of the laboratory experiments conducted revealed that the predominant coccidophagous predatory coccinellids B. sururalis have been the most effective as biological control agents for management of P. solenopsis. When the grubs of B. suturalis fed on nymphs of P. solenopsis, it consumed 176.40 ± 18.50 eggs in duration of 12-16 days total larval period. Meanwhile, it consumed a total of 332.99 ± 40.21 eggs in its total larval period. The predatory potential of B. sururalis on eggs and nymphs of P. solenopsis increased in the successive larval instars.','-','B. Shailaja and S.K. Mandal (2023). Study on Biology and Feeding Potential of Three Striped Ladybird Beetle, Brumoides suturalis (Fab.) on Cotton Mealybug, Phenacoccus solenopsis Tinsley. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 15(10): 1170-1173.'),(7865,'168','Effect of Humic Substances on Germination and Growth of FCV Tobacco Seedlings in Karnataka Light Soil','T.M. Soumya, S.K. Shashikala, C. Prashantha and K.R. Siddagangamma ','Effect-of-Humic-Substances-on-Germination-and-Growth-of-FCV-Tobacco-Seedlings-in-Karnataka-Light-Soil-Dr.-Siddagangamma-KR-215.pdf','',1,'A nursery experiment was carried out during kharif seasons of 2018 and 2020 at Zonal Agricultural and Horticultural Research Station, Navile, Shivamogga to study the impact of humic substances on growth of FCV tobacco seedlings. The experiment was laid out in Randomized Complete Block Design with five treatments and four replications. The treatments consist of different methods and rates of humic substance application viz., T1: Soil application of humic substances @ 1.25 kg ha-1, T2: Soil application of humic substances @ 1.25 kg ha-1 + Foliar spray @ 0.05 % at 30 DAS, T3: Soil application of humic substances @ 1.25 kg ha-1 + Foliar spray @ 0.05 % at 30 and 45 DAS, T4: Soil application of humic substances @ 1.25 kg ha-1 + Foliar spray @ 0.05 % 10 days after reset to protray and T5: Package of practices (Normal). The pooled data showed that the soil application of humic substances @ 1.25 kg ha-1 along with foliar spray @ 0.05 % at 30 and 45 days after sowing recorded significantly higher plant height (9.04 cm), number of leaves per seedling (4.73) and dry weight of seedlings (36.24 g per 10 seedlings) over package of practices (7.01 cm, 3.95 and 26.63 g, respectively). The study implies the vast scope for promoting the use of humic substances for the production of better seedlings with good seedling vigour in FCV tobacco.','Humic substance, FCV tobacco, Foliar application, Soil application, Seedling vigour','The two-year study concluded that the application of humic substance in FCV tobacco as soil (at 1.25 kg ha-1) and foliar supplementation (at 0.05%) at 30 DAS and 45 DAS helps to increase plant height (cm), number of leaves per plant, dry weight of FCV tobacco seedlings and reduce damping off disease incidence in FCV tobacco nursery. The application of these humic substances also accelerated seed germination by breaking seed dormancy. As a result, soil application of humic substance at seed sowing, followed by foliar application at 30 and 40 DAS in FCV tobacco nursery, can be promoted as an environmentally friendly good agronomic practice to achieve quality seedling production for improved field establishment and crop productivity in Karnataka light soil.','-','T.M. Soumya, S.K. Shashikala, C. Prashantha and K.R. Siddagangamma (2023). Effect of Humic Substances on Germination and Growth of FCV Tobacco Seedlings in Karnataka Light Soil. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 15(10): 1174-1177.'),(7866,'168','Evaluation of Different Insecticides Against Spodoptera frugiperda \r\n(J.E. Smith) in Maize\r\n','Ghoderao T.N., Suradkar A.L. and Patil B.V. ','Evaluation-of-Different-Insecticides-Against-Spodoptera-frugiperda--Ghoderao-TN-216.pdf','',1,'The investigation of “Evaluation of different insecticides against Spodoptera frugiperda (J.E. Smith) in maize”. The field experiment was conducted on the field of progressive farmer Shree. Baburao Mhaske Domegoan, Taluka Ambad, Dist. Jalna under the guidance of research guide, college of agriculture Badnapur during kharif 2021. The work was carried out in Randomized Block Design with three replications and Seven treatments. The net plot size and gross plot size was 3.0 m × 2.2 m and 4.2 m × 3 m respectively with maize crop variety Fourtuner. The studies revealed that, after three application of insecticides for the management of Spodoptera frugiperda, Emamectin benzoate 5SG (T1) was found to be effective against the fall armyworm and egg masses of fall armyworm population, followed by Chlorantraniliprole 18.5 SC (T2), Spinetoram 11.7 % SC (T3), Flubendiamide 49.35 SC (T3), Indoxacarb 15.8 EC (T4) and Chlorfluazuron 5.4 EC (T6). The maximum population of fall armyworm and egg masses of fall armyworm was observed in untreated control as compare to all other treatments. To convince the farmer for layout experiment in already planted crop and to keep watch on the activities of pest and it\'s response to different treatments were the challenges. The entire research programme monitored and guided by research guide besides all the inputs were provided by college of agriculture Badnapur and losses occurred in the plant population during layout and losses in the yield caused by untreated control were beared by farmer.','Insecticides, Maize, Spodoptera frugiperda, fall armyworm, egg masses','The study indicate that among the all treatments Emamectine benzoate 5 SG (T1) @ 4 gm/10 L was found best with the lowest population of spodoptera frugiperda larvae and their egg masses. Result revealed that next better treatment was Chlorantraniliprole 18.5 SC (T2) @ 3 ml/10 were found effective against fall armyworm of Maize.','-','Ghoderao T.N., Suradkar A.L. and Patil B.V. (2023). Evaluation of Different Insecticides Against Spodoptera frugiperda (J.E. Smith) in Maize. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 15(10): 1178-1185.'),(7867,'168','Preference for Coffee varieties and Volatile compounds by Coffee White Stem Borer, Xylotrechus quadripes','Prashant Mangalgikar, Karumuru Raja Madhura Bhanu, Vasuki Belavadi, Chandrashekharaiah Muniyappa and Byrappa Ammagarahalli ','Preference-for-Coffee-varieties-and-Volatile-compounds-by-Coffee-White-Stem-Borer,-Xylotrechus-quadripes-Prashant-Mangalgikar-217.pdf','',1,'The study revealed a significant difference in host preference between male and female Coffee white stem borer (CWSB) beetles in response to arabica and robusta coffee varieties. When arabica was positioned in the W-N and E-S directions and robusta in the N-E and S-W directions, both male and female beetles distinctly favored arabica coffee, as indicated by χ2 values of 21.49 and 22.01, respectively. Altering the spatial orientation of host plants, with arabica in the W-N and N-E direction and robusta in the S-W and E-S direction, led to a significant difference in female preference (χ2=11.58), while no significant difference was observed in male preference (χ2=2.56). In Y-tube olfactometer experiments, female CWSB beetles displayed a significantly higher response to Cauvery bark volatile (66.67) compared to the control (33.33) (χ2=11.11). Additionally, a higher response to (E)-2-hexenal (79.33) compared to (Z)-3-hexenol (17.33) was noted (χ2=39.76). These findings shed light on the preferences and responses of female CWSB beetles to various volatile compounds, offering insights for pest management strategies. Overall, the results emphasize the stronger inclination of CWSB towards arabica coffee compared to robusta. This preference may contribute to the higher incidence of CWSB infestation in arabica coffee plantations.','Behavior, Y-tube olfactometer, Arabica coffee, Xylotrechus','Female CWSB beetles exhibited a substantial preference for arabica coffee, while males displayed a non-significant preference. In the Y-tube bioassay, a notable distinction in preference was evident in female CWSB beetles when comparing arabica and robusta coffee bark volatiles, arabica bark volatiles, and the control. However, no significant difference was observed between robusta bark volatiles and the control. These findings align with the established understanding of CWSB behavior, highlighting the nuanced host preferences exhibited by females, particularly in response to coffee bark volatiles. The differential responses between male and female CWSB beetles emphasize the importance of considering gender-specific behaviors in the context of pest management strategies, and they provide valuable insights into the chemical ecology of these insects.','-','Prashant Mangalgikar, Karumuru Raja Madhura Bhanu, Vasuki Belavadi, Chandrashekharaiah Muniyappa and Byrappa Ammagarahalli (2023). Preference for Coffee varieties and Volatile compounds by Coffee White Stem Borer, Xylotrechus quadripes. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 15(10): 1186-1190.'),(7868,'168','Harnessing Probiotics to Bolster Disease Resistance and Immunological Vigor in Fish: An Overview','Inain Jaies and Feroz Ahmad Shah','Harnessing-Probiotics-to-Bolster-Disease-Resistance-and-Immunological-Vigor-in-Fish-An-Overview-Inain-Jaies-218.pdf','',1,'This review explores the potential of probiotics as a proactive strategy to enhance disease resistance and immunological vigor in fish. With aquaculture facing significant challenges related to disease outbreaks, the utilization of probiotics has gained prominence as a promising intervention. The paper synthesizes current research, delving into the diverse mechanisms by which probiotics modulate the immune responses of fish. From the specific strains employed to the ecological implications of their application, the review navigates through the nuanced landscape of probiotic interventions. By elucidating both direct and indirect impacts on immune parameters, the paper provides valuable insights for researchers, aquaculturists, and policymakers, offering a foundation for optimizing disease management strategies and fostering sustainable aquaculture practices.','Aquaculture, Aquatic organisms, Disease, Immune effects, Probiotic efficiency','Aquaculture has developed into one of the industries with the fastest growth because it offers superior quality animal protein for dietary demands and food security. This escalating, intensified aquaculture production is constrained by a number of factors, such as disease outbreaks, high levels of stress, a scarcity of fish meal as a source of protein, etc. In the past, these problems have been treated with antibiotics and chemical disinfectants, but as a result, concerns about the safety of human and aquatic animal food have been raised, and as a result, environmental contamination has occurred. Aquaculture animals can thrive in the perfect habitat created by probiotics, which will also benefit the health of the animals.','-','Inain Jaies and Feroz Ahmad Shah (2023). Harnessing Probiotics to Bolster Disease Resistance and Immunological Vigor in Fish: An Overview. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 15(10): 1191-1196.'),(7869,'168','Estimates of PCV, GCV and Heritability Studies for Yield components and Nutritional Traits in Blackgram [Vigna mungo (L.) Hepper]','Siva Reddy K.V., Srinivas T., Nagendra Rao K., Bindu Madhavi G. and Srinivasa Rao V.','Estimates-of-PCV,-GCV-and-Heritability-Studies-for-Yield-components-and-Nutritional-Traits-in-Blackgram-[Vigna-mungo-(L.)-Hepper]-KV-Siva-Reddy-219.pdf','',1,'Blackgram is one of the most important pulses crop in India. However, most of the cultivated blackgram genotypes are marginal yielders with minimal nutritional traits, mainly due to lack of genetic variability. Present research work was carried out at RARS, Lam during Rabi 2020-21 with 78 genotypes to address these problems. Good amount of genetic variability in a population determines the success of any breeding programme. In addition to genetic variability, knowledge of heritability and genetic advance assists the breeder in developing an appropriate breeding strategy. Studies were conducted on 15 parameters, for PCV, GCV, heritability (broad sense) and Genetic Advance as per cent of mean. For the traits viz., days to 50% flowering, number of branches/plant, number of clusters/plant, number of pods/cluster, number of pods/plant, seed yield/plant, protein content, iron content and zinc content, expressed high GAM and heritability indicating that these characters are controlled by additive gene action and simple selection would be effective for improvement of these traits. PCV and GCV were found to be high for the characteristics seed yield plant per plant and zinc content, indicating significant genetic diversity in the genetic material. In the current study, PCV estimations were greater than GCV values for all variables, indicating the influence of environment on genotype performance.','Blackgram, PCV, GCV, Genetic Advance, variability, Heritability','Simple selection would be effective in improving the traits days to 50% flowering, number of branches/plant, number of clusters/plant, number of pods/cluster, number of pods/plant, seed yield/plant, protein content, iron content, and zinc content as they have recorded high GAM and heritability values. Other characters under study expressed high heritability in association with GAM (moderate to low), indicating non-additive gene action, these characters improved through heterosis breeding. For the traits seed yield/ plant and zinc content, coefficient of variation both genotypic and phonotypic found to be high, indicating high genetic variability in the genetic material.','-','Siva Reddy K.V., Srinivas T., Nagendra Rao K., Bindu Madhavi G. and Srinivasa Rao V. (2023). Estimates of PCV, GCV and Heritability Studies for Yield components and Nutritional Traits in Blackgram [Vigna mungo (L.) Hepper]. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 15(10): 1197-1201.'),(7870,'169','Average Performance of Genotypes for Growth, Yield, and Quality Traits in Tomato (Solanum lycopersicum L.)','Durga Hemanth Kumar Ch, Narm Naidu L., Ravindra Babu M., Rajani A., Gopal K. and Paratpara Rao M. ','Average-Performance-of-Genotypes-for-Growth,-Yield,-and-Quality-Traits-in-Tomato-(Solanum-lycopersicum-L.)-Durga-Hemanth-Kumar-Ch-4.pdf','',1,'During Kharif 2021, An experiment was conducted at P.G Research Farm, College of Horticulture, Venkataramannagudem, to examine the individual performance of 60 genotypes for yield characteristics. When it came to yield and yield-contributing traits, such as fruit yield per plant (5.17 kg) and number of fruits per plant (57.66), VRSL 87 was the best genotype. Plant height (137.80) and the number of primary branches per plant (11.88) were found to be significantly higher in the genotype VRSL 223 than in VRSL 66. On the other hand, VRSL 26 had a higher average fruit weight (118.01). Fruit diameter and length (8.50 and 8.40) were found to be superior to those of the genotype VRSL 107. When necessary multilocation trials are completed, the high yielding genotypes will be used as commercial varieties.','Tomato, mean, per se performance','After multilocation, multisession studies, five superior genotypes for fruit yield, namely VRSL 87, VRSL 8, VRSL 24, VRSL 44, and VRSL 104, may be used as parents. As a result, the identified superior genotypes should be used in subsequent improvement studies using various breeding strategies.','-','Durga Hemanth Kumar Ch, Narm Naidu L., Ravindra Babu M., Rajani A., Gopal K. and Paratpara Rao M. (2023). Average Performance of Genotypes for Growth, Yield, and Quality Traits in Tomato (Solanum lycopersicum L.). Biological Forum – An International Journal, 15(11): 21-23.'),(7871,'168','Optimisation of various Ingredients for the Development of Quinoa fortified Bread and their Storage Studies','Mahendra Kumar, Alpana Singh, Anubha Upadhyay and R.S. Thakur','Optimisation-of-various-Ingredients-for-the-Development-of-Quinoa-fortified-Bread-and-their-Storage-Studies-Mahendrakumar-220.pdf','',1,'Quinoa is known as super food due to its exceptional nutritional quality and balanced amino acid profile. Present study comprises optimisation of various ingredients in quinoa fortified bread and analysis of quality of bread for 7 days of storage. Sorption isotherm of bread at 60% RH, 80% RH and 100% RH showed maximum moisture content as 43.21% in 5.98 % quinoa containing sample, 43.81 and 43.99 % in 25.01% quinoa flour fortified samples respectively whereas minimum moisture as 42.30, 42.70 % observed in control samples and 42.88 % in 5.98% quinoa addition samples respectively. It was presented in results that loaf volume of quinoa fortified bread during zero day, 4th day and 7th day was observed 2200, 2195 and 2190cm3 maximum in control samples whereas 1905, 1902 and 1900cm3 was recorded in 25.01% quinoa samples during storage period respectively. It could note that 4th day and 7th day of moisture loss during storage found maximum as 40.77 and 38.85% in 15.5% quinoa samples whereas minimum as 39.83 and 37.90% observed in 5.98% quinoa samples respectively. It was seen from the result that staleness was not observed at zero day in quinoa fortified bread. It was reflected from the table that 4th day and 7th day staleness of bread during storage period found highest as 6.25 and 8.54 in 25.01% quinoa samples while lowest as 3.0 and 7.10 observed in control samples respectively. Total plate count is effective method for determining microbial population in bread sample and estimates shelf life of bread. Quinoa fortified bread microbial analysis conducted for 0 days, 4 days and 7 days of storage at ambient temperature (37°C Temperature). Results showed that zero days of storage did not show any microbial activity. Obtained results showed higher microbial activity was found in 7 days of storage which was observed as 5.38 log cfu/g whereas 4th day of storage showed moderate activity which was about 3.25 log cfu/g. According to AOAC, the TPC for bread should be>0.88-6.13log CFU/g. In the present study, we found that on 7th day the TPC is lower than recommended safety level and on 9th day, the plate count is higher than recommended. Therefore, the present study found that the quinoa optimised bread is safe up to the 7th day.','Quinoa, Bread, Sorption isotherm, Loaf volume, Total plate count, Shelf life, microbial activity','Now a day consumption of functional and convenient food with desired properties has been a growing interest. Bread is one of the most popular staple foods with great consumer acceptance in the world. However, most bread are made from refined wheat flour, which have deficiency in nutrition, such as lack of vitamins, minerals, lysine (a limiting amino acid for cereals) and dietary fibre. Quinoa is famous for their incredible amino acid balance and good fibre content. Therefore, incorporation of quinoa flour into refined wheat flour given desirable nutritional as well as functional characteristics. Thus, the present investigation entitled “Optimisation of various ingredients for the development of quinoa fortified bread and their storage studies” were studied.','-','Mahendra Kumar, Alpana Singh, Anubha Upadhyay and R.S. Thakur (2023). Optimisation of various Ingredients for the Development of Quinoa fortified Bread and their Storage Studies. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 15(10): 1202-1206.'),(7872,'168','Morpho- Physiological Traits aided Screening of Soybean Genotypes under Rainfed Situation','A. Geetha, C.V. Sameer Kumar, K. Indudhar Reddy and G. Neelima','Morpho-Physiological-Traits-aided-Screening-of-Soybean-Genotypes-under-Rainfed-Situation-A-Geetha-221.pdf','',1,'Soybean is one of the major rainfed crops, improper distribution of monsoon and its early cessation results in poor crop yield, which is limiting the potential exploitation of yield. Identification of drought tolerant genotypes aids in realizing the good yields. To elucidate the influence of rainfed situation on morpho-physiological characters in ten soybean genotypes, a three years study starting from Kharif, 2015 to 2017 (Kharif, 2015, 2016, 2017) was conducted at RARS, Palem, PJTSAU, Nagarkurnool. The results revealed that under rainfed conditions insufficient rains causes repressed effect on relative water content (RWC), leaf fluorescence, leaf area index and specific leaf area which in turn affects plant growth parameters like plant height (cm), total dry matter production ultimately leads to yield reduction. Among the physiological parameters, lower SLA value, higher RWC values, higher SPAD readings, optimum LAI and high fluorescence values are most desirable characters under low rainfall conditions to cope up water scarcity in plants. However, for character studied, genotypes variations were significant. From the pooled analysis data, JS-335 recorded highest seed yield of 1353 kg ha-1 which was on par with RKS-18 (1099 kg/ha) and the two genotypes showed yield superiority over rest of genotypes, Thus, yield superiority may be due to positive contribution of number of pods per plants and other physiological parameter like optimum LAI and high RWC. The present results are useful for efficient screening of soybean genotypes under rainfed conditions based on morphological, physiological and yield parameters which have due and practical weightage in promising genotypes selections.','Leaf area index, rainfed, relative water content, soybean, SPAD readings, SLA, seed yield','From the present investigation, it can be concluded that during selection of promising genotypes for agronomic performance in rainfed areas with water limitations, due weightage should be given to morpho-physiological parameters to have practical results under water limited conditions to realize fullest genetic potential. The present results are useful for efficient screening of soybean genotypes under rainfed conditions based on morphological, physiological and yield parameters which have due and practical weightage in promising genotypes selections.','-','A. Geetha, C.V. Sameer Kumar, K. Indudhar Reddy and G. Neelima (2023). Morpho- Physiological Traits aided Screening of Soybean Genotypes under Rainfed Situation. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 15(10): 1207-1212.'),(7873,'146','Effect of Pit Size, Spacing, Growth Regulators and Fertilizers on Commercial Cultivation of Cut Foliages of Murraya exotica','Ruchita Panda, Siddharth Kumar Palai, Sashikala Beura, Pradyumna Tripathy, Prasanna Kumar Samant and K. Raja Babu','Effect-of-Pit-Size,-Spacing,-Growth-Regulators-and-Fertilizers-on-Commercial-Cultivation-of-Cut-Foliages-of-Murraya-exotica-Ruchita-Panda-249.pdf','',1,'Murraya exotica is an important cut foliage, but no systematic work has been done to standardize agro-techniques for its commercial cultivation. Therefore, it is felt necessary to examine the effect of spacing, pit size, fertilizers and growth regulators on vegetative growth and foliage yield for commercial cultivation of Murraya exotica. The present investigation was conducted during the year 2019-2021 at Horticulture Research Station, College of Agriculture, Odisha University of Agriculture and Technology, Bhubaneswar, Odisha. The experiment laid out in Randomized Block Design (RBD) with 4 replications. The experiment was conducted in 6 modules comprising of different spacing, pit size, FYM, basal fertilizer dose, water soluble fertilizers and growth regulator (BAP). Results revealed that, Module – VI (spacing - 210cm × 210cm; pit size - 60cm × 60cm × 60cm; FYM - 25Kg/pit; basal fertilizer dose - N: P2O5: K2O @ 40:40:40 g/plant; foliar application of water soluble fertilizer- NPK 19:19:19 @ 0.2% and BAP- 150 ppm) recorded significant increase in vegetative growth parameters like plant height (126.76 cm),stem diameter (28.88 cm), length of branch (58.28 cm), number of primary branches (21.33), number of secondary branches (36.38), internodal length (4.70 cm), number of tertiary branches (68.20), number of harvestable branches (95.33) and foliage yield/plant (2.699 kg). However, the yield per hectare (6.12 t/ha) was reported maximum in module-I (spacing - 90cm × 90cm; pit size – 20cm × 20cm × 20cm; FYM - 5Kg/pit; basal fertilizer dose - N: P2O5: K2O @ 5:5:5 g/plant; foliar application of water soluble fertilizer- NPK 19:19:19 @ 0.1% and BAP- 25 ppm).','6-Benzyl amino purine, module, spacing, pit size, water soluble fertilizer, foliage yield','From the present study, it can be concluded that spacing, pit size, application of inorganic (N: P2O5: K2O), organic (FYM), water soluble fertilizers (NPK 19:19:19) and growth regulator (BAP) play significant role in improving the growth and quality of Murraya exotica. Vegetative growth and foliage yield per plant was maximum in Module-VI but, yield per hectare was maximum in Module-I because of highest plant population per hectare. Adoption of Module-I is recommended for commercial cultivation of cut foliages.','-','Ruchita Panda, Siddharth Kumar Palai, Sashikala Beura, Pradyumna Tripathy, Prasanna Kumar Samant and K. Raja Babu (2022). Effect of Pit Size, Spacing, Growth Regulators and Fertilizers on Commercial Cultivation of Cut Foliages of Murraya exotica. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 14(4): 1393-1396.'),(7874,'147','Vaselife Studies of Cut Foliages of Murraya exotica','Ruchita Panda, Siddharth Kumar Palai, Sashikala Beura, Pradyumna Tripathy, Prasanna Kumar Samant and Sadhna Swastika','Vaselife-Studies-of-Cut-Foliages-of-Murraya-exotica-Ruchita-Panda-141.pdf','',1,'The experiment was conducted to study the vase life of Murraya exotica cut foliages by using different pulsing, holding solutions. Factorial CRD design was followed in the experiment. Effect of pulsing, holding solutions and distilled water (control) on different modules was studied in Murraya exotica cut foliages. Cut foliages of six modules comprising of different spacing, pit size, FYM, basal fertilizer dose, water soluble fertilizers and growth regulator (BAP) were examined for the vase life studies. Pulsing solution containing Sucrose (2%) + Al2(SO4)3 (1000 ppm) (11.62 days) resulted long vase life of foliage followed by solution containing Sucrose (2%) + BA (50 ppm) (10.83 days) in module VI. Whereas holding solution containing Sodium Benzoate (150 ppm) (10.74 days) showed long vase life of foliage followed by Sodium Benzoate (100ppm) (10.57 days) in module VI. ','Murraya exotica, cut foliages, pulsing solution, holding solution, Sodium Benzoate, Sucrose','From the present study, it can be concluded that twigs treated with pulsing solution containing sucrose (2%) + Al2(SO4)3 (200ppm) and holding solution containing sodium benzoate (150 ppm) exhibited longest vase life irrespective of all the modules of Murraya exotica.','-','Ruchita Panda, Siddharth Kumar Palai, Sashikala Beura, Pradyumna Tripathy, Prasanna Kumar Samant and Sadhna Swastika (2022). Vaselife Studies of Cut Foliages of Murraya exotica. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 14(4a): 822-825.'),(7875,'168','Studies on Genetic Divergence Analysis of Coriander Germplasm (Coriandrum sativum L.)\r\n','Niharika Singh, C.N. Ram, Anjana C.S., Rohit Kumar Singh, Himanshu Singh and Hareesh Kumar Maurya ','Studies-on-Genetic-Divergence-Analysis-of-Coriander-Germplasm--Niharika-Singh-222.pdf','',1,'The present investigation was conducted with 60 genotypes including three checks (NDCor- 1, NDCor-2 and Hisar Anand) in Augmented Block Design in 4 blocks (15 genotypes + 3 checks in each block). On the basis of 12 characters, the non-hierarchical Euclidean cluster analysis was used to examine the genetic divergence across 60 coriander germplasm collections. The 63 coriander genotypes were divided into 7 groups. The intra-cluster group means for 12 characters varied significantly amongst the various clusters. Therefore, crosses between members of clusters which are having high cluster means for important characters coupled with high inter-cluster distances between them, are likely to be more useful. Cluster VI, followed by cluster I, had the highest cluster mean for seed yield per plant, whereas cluster VI, followed by cluster VI, had the lowest cluster mean for seed yield per plant. Crosses between cluster members who are far apart from one another are likely to result in segregates that are desirable. In this situation, cluster III recorded the most intra-cluster distance, whereas clusters II and VII recorded the greatest inter-cluster distance, and cluster V recorded the greatest number of genotypes.','Cluster, Divergence, Genotypes, Segregates','The present study grouped the 63 coriander genotypes into 7 diverse clusters and delineated few important traits contributing towards total variability crosses between members of clusters which are having high cluster means for important characters coupled with high inter cluster distances between them, are likely to be more useful. This could be the basis for planning an effective hybridization programme and selection of genotypes for further coriander improvement programme.','-','Niharika Singh, C.N. Ram, Anjana C.S., Rohit Kumar Singh, Himanshu Singh and Hareesh Kumar Maurya (2023). Studies on Genetic Divergence Analysis of Coriander Germplasm (Coriandrum sativum L.). Biological Forum – An International Journal, 15(10): 1213-1216.'),(7876,'168','Compatibility of Bell Pepper Hybrid with Different Chilli Rootstocks','Sanmathi Naik A.T.S., C.N. Hanchinamani, Shivanand Hongal, Naresh Ponnam, G. Manjunath, Mohan Kumar S., Shankar Meti and Pradeep Kumar','Compatibility-of-Bell-Pepper-Hybrid-with-Different-Chilli-Rootstocks-Sanmathi-Naik-ATS-223.pdf','',1,'This study explores the dynamics of vegetable grafting, focusing on bell pepper hybrid MS and various Capsicum spp. rootstocks. The experiment delves into seed germination, seedling growth parameters and grafting outcomes. MS hybrid demonstrates swift germination and robust seedling growth, attributed to hybrid vigor. Rootstocks CRS-22 and CRS-24 exhibit delayed germination and slower growth. MS grafted on CRS-1, CRS-2, CRS-11, and CRS-15 rootstocks showcases superior graft success, while CRS-22 and CRS-24 combinations exhibit lower success rates. Graft combinations with CRS-14 and CRS-21 demonstrate lower graft failure rates, emphasizing compatibility. Stem girth, leaf count, and plant height variations highlight the influence of rootstock selection. The study\'s insights contribute to optimizing grafting practices for enhanced bell pepper cultivation, emphasizing the crucial role of seed germination and seedling growth parameters in achieving successful graft unions. The chilli rootstocks such as CRS-1, CRS-2, CRS-11, CRS-14, CRS-15 and CRS-21 has shown more than 70 per cent of graft success indicating a higher compatibility with the bell pepper hybrid MS.','Vegetable grafting, Compatibility, Graft success','In summary, the study underscores the distinct germination and early growth characteristics among various rootstock seeds in bell pepper cultivation. The bell pepper hybrid MS exhibited rapid germination and seedling growth attributed to hybrid vigor, while rootstock seedlings of Capsicum frutescence species, such as CRS-22, CRS-12, CRS-21, and CRS-13, displayed prolonged germination periods and slower growth rates. The choice of rootstock significantly influenced parameters such as stem girth, leaf count, and plant height. Grafting success rates varied among different rootstock combinations, with CRS-1, CRS-2, CRS-11, and CRS-15 demonstrating higher success rates, whereas CRS-22 and CRS-24 exhibited comparatively lower success rates possibly due to incompatibility. Additionally, graft combinations involving CRS-14 and CRS-21 showed lower graft failure rates, emphasizing the importance of rootstock-scion compatibility. The study provides valuable insights for optimizing rootstock selection and grafting practices in bell pepper cultivation to enhance overall plant development and yield.','-','Sanmathi Naik A.T.S., C.N. Hanchinamani, Shivanand Hongal, Naresh Ponnam, G. Manjunath, Mohan Kumar S., Shankar Meti and Pradeep Kumar (2023). Compatibility of Bell Pepper Hybrid with Different Chilli Rootstocks. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 15(10): 1217-1223.'),(7877,'168','Effect of IFS on Soil Physical, Chemical and Biological Properties of Soil','Sharanabasava, Irappa N. Nagaral, I. Balakrishna Reddy, Abhishek Belli M. and Ramesh ','Effect-of-IFS-on-Soil-Physical,-Chemical-and-Biological-Properties-of-Soil-Sharanabasava-224.pdf','',1,'This article reviews the effects of various integrated forming systems on soil processes such as evaporation, infiltration, run-off, and soil loss, as well as physical properties such as bulk density, porosity, aeration, soil moisture, soil aggregation, and water retention and transmission properties. The chemical and biological features of soil include the total microbial population and the availability of major, secondary, and micronutrients. The goal is to improve crop growth and crop yield. We suggest that adopting the appropriate IFS models will significantly improve the physical, chemical, and biological properties of the soil, reduce the cost of cultivation, and increase crop yield.','IFS Models, Biological Properties, Chemical properties, Physical properties','It can be concluded that IFS is also an eco-friendly approach in which the waste of one enterprise becomes the input of another, thus making efficient use of resources. It helps in improving the health of the soil, such as its physical, chemical, and biological properties, increases water use efficiency, and maintains water quality. This system minimizes the use of harmful chemical fertilizers, weed killers, and pesticides, thus safeguarding the environment from their adverse effects.','-','Sharanabasava, Irappa N. Nagaral, I. Balakrishna Reddy, Abhishek Belli M. and Ramesh (2023). Effect of IFS on Soil Physical, Chemical and Biological Properties of Soil. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 15(10): 1224-1227.'),(7878,'147','Molecular Screening of Rice (Oryza sativa L.) Genotypes for Bacterial Leaf Blight Resistance Genes using Trait-based SNP Markers','Lakshmikanth M.R., A. Mishra, Prakash Singh, P.N. Jagadev, B. Pradhan, K.C. Samal, S. Mohanty and R.L. Verma','Molecular-Screening-of-Rice-(Oryza-sativa-L.)-Genotypes-for-Bacterial-Leaf-Blight-Resistance-Genes-using-Trait-based-SNP-Markers-Lakshmikanth-MR-142.pdf','',1,'Bacterial leaf blight (BLB) disease is one of the major diseases of rice, which can cause detrimental effect to the yield. To overcome this issue development of resistant varieties by utilizing resistant gene pool is the most effective strategy for the plant breeders. The current study was conducted in order to evaluate the potential of 182 rice genotypes against Bacterial leaf blight (BLB) at genotypic level. The trait-based SNP (Single nucleotide polymorphic markers) were employed to detect the presence or absence of BLB resistance genes (Xa4, Xa7, Xa13 and Xa21) in the genotypes. The genotypic results revealed that, 131 genotypes showed the presence of at least any one resistance genes studied. Interestingly, 48 genotypes did not show presence of any of the four resistance genes. The genes Xa4, Xa7, Xa13 and Xa21 were identified in 132, 2, 3 and 2 genotypes with frequency of 72.52%, 1.09%, 1.64% and 1.09% of genotypes, respectively. Notably, one genotype possessed two resistance genes (Xa4 and Xa7) and two genotypes possessed three resistance genes (Xa4, Xa13 and Xa21). Furthermore, cluster analysis grouped the 182 genotypes into two clusters, in which cluster I had genotypes not carrying any of the resistance genes and cluster II had genotypes carrying at least one or more than one resistance genes. The identified genotypes carrying multiple resistance genes could serve as a potential resource for BLB resistance targeted rice breeding programmes. ','Bacterial leaf blight, Gene, Resistance, Rice and SNP','The present study highlighted that molecular validation is the fast and essential strategy to explore the variation of various rice genotypes for their potential against BLB disease. The genotypes having any one of the resistance gene can be utilized in crop improvement activities targeting for BLB resistance. The two identified multi-genic lines, which contain the genes Xa4, Xa13 and Xa21 would be a potential donor parents for developing BLB resistant varieties through marker assisted improvement programme in rice. Having multiple genes conferring resistance is a robust approach in the face of climate change, ensuring sustainable food security. This study further suggests that genotypes indicating resistance at molecular level should be evaluated at field level for further confirmation. ','-','Lakshmikanth M.R., A. Mishra, Prakash Singh, P.N. Jagadev, B. Pradhan, K.C. Samal, S. Mohanty and R.L. Verma (2022). Molecular Screening of Rice (Oryza sativa L.) Genotypes for Bacterial Leaf Blight Resistance Genes using Trait-based SNP Markers. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 14(4a): 826-829.'),(7879,'168','Evaluation of the Relations between Yield and Yield Components of Fenugreek (Trigonella foenum-graecum L.) by Correlation and Path Analysis','Hareesh Kumar Maurya, D.P. Mishra, Himanshu Singh, G.C. Yadav, Jayshree Singh and Niharika Singh ','Evaluation-of-the-Relations-between-Yield-and-Yield-Components-of-Fenugreek-(Trigonella-foenum-graecum-L.)-by-Correlation-and-Path-Analysis-Hareesh-Kumar-Maurya-225.pdf','',1,'The present experiment conducted during Rabi season of the year 2019-2020 at Main Experiment Station of Department of Vegetable Science Acharya Narendra Deva University of Agriculture and Technology, Narendra Nagar (Kumarganj), Faizabad (Ayodhya) Uttar Pradesh, India. Observation was recorded for growth and yield attributes traits and found that highly significant and positive correlation with length of pod was showed by seed yield plant-1 whereas days to maturity, 1000-seed weight, and days to 50% flowering showed highly significant and negatively correlation with seed yield per plant. Whereas direct and indirect effect at both phenotypic and genotypic level elucidated that days to 50% flowering have substantial positive direct effect on seed yield plant-1 while negative direct effect was exhibited by days to maturity followed by 1000 seed weight and seeds pod-1. Regarding indirect contribution days to maturity via days to 50% flowering and secondary branches plant-1 via days to maturity inhibited substances position and negative effects respectively thus, selection of length of pod and days to 50% flowering should take into consideration during selection in yield input. Major objective of this study was to evolve new varieties with higher yield and its attributing traits. Improvement made in crop varieties is mainly concentrated on increasing yield and yield attributing characters.','Correlation, Yield Components, Coefficient, Fenugreek, Path analysis','With the help of finding observation it can be concluded that there exists ample variation within the germplasm of fenugreek. Out of seventy five genotypes, entries NDM-97, NDM-116, NDM-1, NDM-37, NDM-137, NDM-20, NDM-57, NDM-76, NDM-14 and NDM-132 were found superior for seed yield per plant and after proper testing through multi-locational yield trials these are may be recommended for cultivation on large scale among the farmers and can be utilize as donors in breeding programme. Crossing between genotypes of cluster VIII and cluster VI may give rise desirable F1/segregates in future.','-','Hareesh Kumar Maurya, D.P. Mishra, Himanshu Singh, G.C. Yadav, Jayshree Singh and Niharika Singh (2023). Evaluation of the Relations Between Yield and Yield Components of Fenugreek (Trigonella foenum-graecum L.) by Correlation and Path Analysis. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 15(10): 1228-1231.'),(7880,'168','Effect of Rooting Media and Foliar Application of Micro-Nutrients on the Growth of Acid Lime (Citrus aurantifolia Swingle) Seedlings cv. Balaji','Sankeerthana Kanike, Suresh Kumar T., P. Harikanth and B. Naveen Kumar ','Effect-of-Rooting-Media-and-Foliar-Application-of-Micro-Nutrients-on-the-Growth-of-Acid-Lime-(Citrus-aurantifolia-Swingle)-Seedlings-cv.-Balaji-Sankeerthana-Kanike-226.pdf','',1,'The present investigation was carried out at Horticultural Research Station, Konda Mallepally (Mndl.), Nalgonda (Dist.), during the period 2023. The experiment was laid out in randomized block design. The research experiment was conducted to evaluate the effect of different growing media and foliar application of Arka Citrus Special on seedlings of acid lime cv. Balaji. The results revealed that T8 was best for days taken for initiation of germination (28.93 days), germination percent and survival percent (88.08%), growth rate (21.30 and 16.30), height of seedling (7.88 cm, 14.27 cm and 19.16 cm), shoot length (5.98 cm, 9.99 cm and 16.02 cm), number of leaves (10.30, 16.06 and 21.33), leaf area (3.75 cm2, 4.65 cm2 and 5.75 cm2), stem diameter (1.79 mm, 2.66 mm and 2.91mm), chlorophyll (SPAD) (56.68 mg, 60.20 mg and 61.00 mg), vigour index (693.75 cm, 1256.33 cm and 1868.84 cm), fresh weight of shoots (1.99 g), dry weight of shoots (0.78 g), fresh weight of roots (1.81 g), dry weight of roots (0.85 g), root length (6.38 cm) and survival percentage (82.62 %). ','Acid lime, Arka Citrus Special, growing media, seedlings','It can be concluded that among the different treatments, the growing media with combination of soil, farm yard manure (FYM) and vermicompost in equal proportions given the best results in T4. And also, in this study, the application of micro-nutrient spray Arka Citrus Special at 5 g / L was found to be superior as revealed by the results T8: T4 (Soil + FYM + Vermicompost – 1:1:1) + Micro-nutrient spray (Arka Citrus Special) 5 g / L, and it is followed by the best results in T7: T3 (soil + vermicompost) + micro nutrient spray (Arka Citrus Special) 5 g / L. Thus, it can be recommended to produce vigorous, healthy and superior quality acid lime seedlings.','-','Sankeerthana Kanike, Suresh Kumar T., P. Harikanth and B. Naveen Kumar (2023). Effect of Rooting Media and Foliar Application of Micro-Nutrients on the Growth of Acid Lime (Citrus aurantifolia Swingle) Seedlings cv. Balaji. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 15(10): 1232-1235.'),(7881,'168','Relationship between Self-Reliance and Psychological Well – being Among Adolescents','Nagasani Rashmithanath, G. Swarupa Rani, P. Sreedevi and M. Prasuna ','Relationship-between-Self-Reliance-and-Psychological-Well-–-being-Among-Adolescents-Nagasani-Rashmithanath-227.pdf','',1,'The study was aimed to investigating the relationship between self-reliance and psychological well-being among rural and urban adolescents in Warangal District of Telangana State. Self – reliance is a significant and robust predictor of psychological health. Whereas, self- reliant adolescents with better psychological well-being are essential for the future development. This study consists the sample of 90 adolescent girls and 90 adolescent boys belonging to the age group of 10 – 19 years were selected purposively. Self-reliance and Psychological Well -Being (Ryff’s, 1989) Scale was used to collect data. Self – reliance scale assess independent thinking, assertiveness, goal setting, decision making, problem solving, emotional controlling and personal care. The Psychological well-being scale assess autonomy, environmental mastery, personal growth, positive relations, purpose in life and self – acceptance of adolescents. After conducting correlation analysis between self-reliance and psychological well – being of adolescents, self-reliance was significantly and positively related with the psychological well-being. Specifically, the correlation coefficient was calculated to be r=0.804** at 0.01 level of probability. According to the results, the present study concludes that as self-reliance practices increase, the psychological well – being of the rural and urban adolescents also increases. It helped the adolescents to have the ability take own decisions, increase their self – confidence, develop problem solving skills and recognize their strengths and weaknesses. The idea that self-reliance is essential for promoting excellent psychological well-being in adolescents is supported by the consistency of our findings across the research.','Self – reliance, Psychological well – being, Rural and Urban adolescents','The study can be concluded that self –reliance is significantly and positively related with psychological well - being of adolescents. The findings of the study suggest that self-reliance plays a pivotal role in fostering the psychological well-being of adolescents. The study underscores that adolescents who exhibit self-reliance tend to develop essential qualities such as autonomy, problem-solving skills, and the ability to make decisions independently, particularly in challenging situations. This empowerment contributes significantly to their overall psychological well-being. The findings emphasize that self-reliant adolescents not only display positive attitudes and behaviors but also assertively voice their opinions, judgments, and values. The understanding of their own emotions and feelings further enhances their psychological well-being. In essence, the cultivation of self-reliance equips adolescents with the tools needed to navigate life with confidence, resilience, and a positive mindset, ultimately contributing to their overall psychological health and a sense of well-being.','-','Nagasani Rashmithanath, G. Swarupa Rani, P. Sreedevi and M. Prasuna (2023). Relationship Between Self-Reliance and Psychological Well – being Among Adolescents. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 15(10): 1236-1239.'),(7882,'168','In vitro Evaluation of Potential Bio Agents against Pyricularia setariae causing Blast of Foxtail Millet','Anand, Mahesh M., Venkataravana P., Palanna K.B., Devaraja and Arpitha H.B. ','In-vitro-Evaluation-of-Potential-Bio-Agents-against-Pyricularia-setariae-causing-Blast-of-Foxtail-Millet-Mahesh-M-228.pdf','',1,'Next to finger millet, foxtail millet is the most significant millet crop. The crop is prone to many biotic and abiotic stresses among them, leaf blast caused by Pyricularia setariae is an important disease causing considerable yield loss. The method of managing the disease with chemical fungicides has various drawbacks, such as the emergence of resistance, contamination of the environment, impact on non-target creatures, and potential health risks to humans. An attempt was made to evaluate potential fungal and bacterial bio agents collected from different places against Pyricularia setariae under laboratory conditions. Among them, Tv3 strain of Trichoderma viride showed highest mycelial growth inhibition (67.19 per cent). Next in the order was Th56 strain of T. harzianum with 66.79 per cent inhibition. Among the fungal bio agents, Th41, ThGJ16B, Th4B strain of T. harzianum were on par. Least inhibition of mycelial growth was observed in ThB2 strain of T. harzianum (56.91 per cent). Among the bacterial bio control agents evaluated, P42 strain of Bacillus velezensis exhibited highest percent of mycelial growth inhibition (33.72 per cent). Next in the order was P42 strain of Pseudomonas fluorescens (27.16 per cent) and least inhibition was observed in B. pumilis (21.07 per cent).','Foxtail millet, Blast, Pyricularia setariae, Bio agents','By using the dual culture method, the biocontrol agents\' effectiveness against P. setariae was assessed in vitro. The Tv3 strain of Trichoderma viride exhibited the highest percentage of suppression of mycelial growth (67.19%). Next in the order was Th56 strain of T. harzianum with 66.79 per cent inhibition. Among these Th41, ThGJ16B, Th4B strain of T. harzianum were on par with each other. ThB2 strain of T. harzianum showed the least amount of suppression of mycelial development (56.91 percent).\r\nThe dual culture approach was used to test four distinct bacterial bio control agents against P. setariae. The P42 strain of Bacillus velezensis exhibited the highest percentage of suppression of mycelial growth (33.72%) of all the bacterial biocontrol agents that were examined. The P42 strain of Pseudomonas fluorescens (27.16 percent) came next in the ranking, whereas B. pumilis (21.07 percent) showed the least inhibition of mycelial growth.\r\n','-','Anand, Mahesh M., Venkataravana P., Palanna K.B., Devaraja and Arpitha H.B. (2023). In vitro Evaluation of Potential Bio Agents against Pyricularia setariae causing Blast of Foxtail Millet. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 15(10): 1240-1243.'),(7883,'168','Effect of Nano Chitosan and Nano Micronutrients on Fruit Drop, Yield and Quality of Guava (Psidium guajava L.)','Rishabh Mishra, Saket Mishra and Riddhima Tripathi','Effect-of-Nano-Chitosan-and-Nano-Micronutrients-on-Fruit-Drop,-Yield-and-Quality-of-Guava-(Psidium-guajava-L.)-MANUJ-AWASTHI-229.pdf','',1,'The present investigation was carried out at the Research Farm, Department of Horticulture, SHUATS, Prayagraj, on Guava cv. Allahabad Safeda from January 2022 to July 2022 with find out the effect of suitable treatments of nano chitosan and nano micronutrients in relation to fruit drop, fruit set, yield, and quality of guava. The statistical design adopted for the experiment was randomized block design (RBD) with three replications and nine treatment combinations viz., T1 (ZnO @ 150 ppm), T2 (FeO@ 100ppm), T3 (Borax @ 100 ppm), T4 (Chitosan @250ppm), T5 (ZnO @ 150 ppm + chitosan @250ppm), T6 (FeO@ 100ppm + chitosan @250ppm), T7 (Borax@100ppm + chitosan @250ppm), T8 (ZnO @ 150 ppm + Borax @100ppm + chitosan @250ppm), T9 (ZnO @ 150 ppm+ FeO@100ppm+chitosan @250ppm). The treatments were applied by soil drenching at the initiation of the experiment, pre-flowering stage and the last one at the time of the fruit setting stage to assess the effect on fruit set, fruit drop, yield and quality of Guava. Application of nano chitosan and nano micronutrients with combined application played an important role in relation to the vegetative as well as reproductive growth of plants in the form of physiological role in plants as cell division in plants and increased yield and quality parameters. The results of the present investigation revealed that, the treatment outstanding in all the aspects like; as maximum fruit set (89.13%), minimum fruit drop(10.87%), non-reducing sugar (13.35%), and benefit cost ratio (2.05) were found with T9 (ZnO @ 150 ppm + FeO@100ppm + chitosan @250ppm) treatment; maximum number of flowers (287.70), number of fruits per plant (218.14), yield(26.73kg/plant), and juice content (12.50%) were recorded with T8(ZnO @ 150 ppm + Borax @ 100ppm + chitosan @ 250ppm), maximum T.S.S. (11.520Brix), ascorbic acid (174.44mg/100g), and reducing sugar(5.92%) were found under T3 (Borax @ 100 ppm); fruit diameter (9.25cm) was recorded with T7 (Borax @100ppm + chitosan @ 250ppm) and least titratable acidity(0.40%) was found with T6 (FeO @ 100ppm + chitosan @ 250ppm)treatment; and maximum fruit weight (145.20g) was recorded under treatment T2(FeO @ 100ppm). Maximum acidity% and fruit drop with remaining all above observations recorded least value were found under T0 (control) i.e., water spray.','Nano chitosan, micronutrients, ppm, T.S.S., yield and quality','Based on the present investigation, it can be concluded that on behalf of various treatments were applied to enhance the yield and quality characters of guava cv. Allahabad Safeda, according to the above treatment. Treatment T8 (ZnO @ 150ppm + Borax @100ppm + chitosan @250ppm) is best recommended for the overall growth and development of plants like; number of flowers, fruit weight, fruit yield and juice content % etc. Where, treatment T9 (ZnO @ 150 ppm + FeO@100ppm + chitosan @250ppm) was found best in fruit set with minimal fruit drop and qualitative parameters like; TSS, titratable acidity, reducing, non-reducing sugar and benefit cost ratio also outstanding among the others.','-','Rishabh Mishra, Saket Mishra and Riddhima Tripathi (2023). Effect of Nano Chitosan, Nano Micronutrients on Fruit Drop, Yield and Quality of Guava (Psidium guajava L.). Biological Forum – An International Journal, 15(10): 1244-1249.'),(7884,'167','On Green Roofs: The Production of Vegetables','Durga Hemanth Kumar Ch, Rajini A. and Narm Naidu L.','On-Green-Roofs-the-Production-of-Vegetables-Durga-Hemanth-Kumar-Ch-13.pdf','',1,'Growing vegetables on green roofs has gained popularity in recent years as a method of increasing agricultural sustainability in urban settings. (As urban agriculture has recently been revitalised, rooftop gardens are becoming increasingly significant. Vegetable crops may be grown on green roofs, which opens up possibilities for incorporating agriculture into urban areas. However, due to a number of obstacles that must be solved before widespread implementation, rooftop vegetable producing operations are now quite limited. Although intense green roof systems are regarded to be most ideal for vegetable production, vast systems likely have the highest potential for sustained productivity because most buildings have weight load constraints. As a result, it is believed that shallow-rooted vegetables, such as significant salad greens harvests, are best suited for wide systems due to their ability to produce a lot of food with minimal inputs. Urban populations may benefit from the food production that green roofs provide, and they also provide a special opportunity to grow food productively in areas that are generally underused. As human populations become increasingly urbanised and urban customers become keener to purchase local foods for their families, the use of alternative agricultural production methods, such as green roof technology, will become more important. Although growing food upon roofs is an essential component of making cities more liveable and sustainable, green roofs are not the only way to ensure cities have access to food security. They ought to be seen more as an addition to existing urban food production sources.','Green roofs on a large scale; rooftop gardens; sustainable agriculture; urban food security','As the population of Indian cities grows, so does the need for and expenditure on food. However, as agricultural land is converted to residential, commercial, or industrial usage, the resource is becoming scarce. As a result, it lowers the opportunity to cultivate more and diverse agricultural food items. Food contamination, such as the use of toxic chemical and inorganic fertiliser and pesticides to improve output, is spreading at an alarming rate. In this situation, starting a vegetable garden on the roof might be a plausible and probable answer to these concerns.) Rooftop vegetable growing can assist to fulfil food demand by providing fresh and hygienic vegetables, lowering family spending for purchasing veggies, and creating a healthy environment by improving air quality.','-','-'),(7885,'168','Validation of different Management Practices Adopted by Farmers against Spodoptera frugiperda (J.E. Smith) in Maize','K.S. Pagire, C.S. Patil, D.M. Firake, C.S. Chaudhari and S.R. Dhonde','Validation-of-Different-Management-Practices-Adopted-by-Farmers-Against-Spodoptera-frugiperda-(J.E.-Smith)-in-Maize-KS-Pagire-230.pdf','',1,'Fall Armyworm (FAW) (Spodoptera frugiperda) is a major devastating and gregarious feeding on many crops like maize, sorghum and rice etc. It threatened livelihoods, nutrition, food security and caused major economic losses to farmers. The major emphasis is given on synthetic pesticides for control of this pest which affected human health, natural enemies and the ecosystem negatively. The farmers used local management practices for control of fall armyworm. These practices were safe for human, natural enemies and environment. Therefore, field experiments conducted on evaluation different management practices adopted by farmers against S. frugiperda in maize were carried out at maize improvement project, Mahatma Phule Krishi Vidyapeeth, Rahuri during Kharif 2021 and Rabi 2021. All the treatments were significantly superior over untreated plots. Results of the experiment indicated that standard check chlorantraniliprole 18.5 % SC @ 0.4 ml/l recorded lowest plant damage (24.05%). Among the different farmer’s practices, neem seed powder @ 2 g/whorl was the significantly superior to rest of the treatments which recorded plant damage (33.07 %). It was followed by lime @ 5 g/whorl, which showed 45.18 per cent plant damage. The next effective farmer’s practices were wood ash @ 5 g/whorl, soil @ 5 g/whorl and sand @ 5 g/whorl which recorded plant damage of 46.31, 47.70 and 48.87 per cent, respectively. The untreated plot showed the highest percentage of plant damage (61.24 %). ','Maize, Spodoptera frugiperda, plant damage, chlorantraniliprole 18.5 % SC','On the basis of results of current investigation, it can be concluded that for management of fall armyworm, S. frugiperda the insecticide chlorantriniliprole 18.5 % SC (Standard check) shown most effective in reducing plant damage by fall armyworm. Among the farmer’s practices, neem seed powder @ 2 g/ whorl, lime @5g/whorl and wood ash @ 5g/whorl of water found effective for the management of fall armyworm, S. frugiperda infesting maize. The importance of farmer’s practices in fall armyworm control lies in promoting sustainable agricultural practices. These farmers’ practices can be used in ecofriendly management of fall armyworm in small land holding farmers.','-','K.S. Pagire, C.S. Patil, D.M. Firake, C.S. Chaudhari and S.R. Dhonde (2023). Validation of Different Management Practices Adopted by Farmers Against Spodoptera frugiperda (J.E. Smith) in Maize. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 15(10): 1250-1254.'),(7886,'167','Phytochemical and Medicinal Aspects of Wheatgrass: A Comprehensive Review','Kamal Kishore, Vivek Sharma, H.S. Dhaliwal, Nandita Thakur and Dheeraj Vasu','Phytochemical-and-Medicinal-Aspects-of-Wheatgrass-A-Comprehensive-Review-Nandita-Thakur-14.pdf','',1,'Herbal medicines have been subjected to be more potable from ancient times because of its safeguard and inexpensive nature. One of the pioneer cereal crop wheat played an important role due to its nutritive and medicinal aspects. Various chemical constituents such as flavonoids, alkaloids, glycosides, terpenoids, saponins, enzymes, tannins, dietary fibres, and phenolic compounds have been analyzed in wheat seedlings which played important role in growth and maintenance of body tissues. The availability of bizarre vitamins like vitamin A, B-complex, C, E and minerals such as phosphate, zinc, molybdenum, potassium, alkaline earth metals, selenium make it healthiest remedy. Antioxidant enzymes superoxide dismutase and cytochrome oxidase have the ability to neutralize free radicals and changed them to desirable forms. Wheatgrass has recognized as green blood due to higher chlorophyll content that behaved as shield for cells to protect them from reactive oxygen species and supplied oxygen to enhance body’s immunitic potential. The presence of secondary metabolites and minerals in seedlings possessed anticancer, antiulcer, antioxidant, antiarthritic, iron chelating and blood building properties.','Wheatgrass, chlorophyll, secondary metabolites, oxidative stress, antioxidant, anticancer','India has biodiversity richness and the medicinal plants availed approximately 80% raw material for drug formulation. Medicinal plants demand is increasing day by day due to acute product formulation in pharmaceutical, food and cosmetic industries. The young shoots of wheat have beneficiary role in human life and it must be added into human diet chart to improve nutrient balance. Wheatgrass enriched with life saving chlorophyll, vitamins, minerals, polyphenols, amino acids, saponins and fibres. It has used to heal various illnesses sch as tumour, diabeties, heart problems, inflammatory and ulcerative diseases etc. Various wheatgrass basedproducts launched in market with some new innovative prospectives by claiming their effectiveness. Wheatgrass based products have natural anti-oxidants and bioactive constituents which are capable to avert the track of noxious illnesses. It has much pharmacological diversity in addition to its nutritional values which yet to be explored furthermore.','-','-'),(7887,'167','Pollution Effects on Forest Ecosystems: Insights from Environmental Zoology and Ecology','Vishesh Kumar, Jaspreet Kaur and Jina Narzary','Pollution-Effects-on-Forest-Ecosystems-Insights-from-Environmental-Zoology-and-Ecology-Vishesh-Kumar-15.pdf','',1,'Forests offer numerous sustaining, regulatory, and cultural services. Significant destruction or deterioration of forest ecosystems has resulted from extensive environmental changes. The present study seeks to identify fundamental concepts of assessing pollution effects, with an emphasis on forest ecosystems, and to analyse the combined impact of climate change as well as pollution on forest ecosystem services (ES) based on chosen tree physiological functions. Organisms from the animal kingdom are useful prospective biological indicators. Biological indicators of bioaccumulation can be distinguished from biological markers of impacts (toxicological and ecological). Currently, there is a paucity of information regarding the malfunction of biological processes caused by pollution. The link between pollutant consequences for soil fauna and pollutant impacts on functioning must be investigated. It can be challenging to assess the forest ecosystem due to the ambiguous interactions of climate change phenomena. On the basis of secondary sources (websites, Google Scholar, and numerous internet sources), the methodologies are discussed. Concerning ecological systems, research should establish sampling techniques and factors tailored to ecotoxicological objectives. Toxicological indicators related to various organisms have been extensively studied, and their lethal and sublethal pollutant consequences are well-established. However, only a few species have been the focus of research. These studies must be expanded to include additional zoological groups.','Pollution, forest ecosystem, zoology, environment','The concept of ecosystem expands the conceptual structure of biodiversity along with ecosystem operational investigation to comprise the total human–environment structure. Therefore, we must comprehend the way concurrent alterations to climate, along with disturbance regimes, and forest utilisation will impact the zoology and ecology of forest sustainability. Nevertheless, forest ecosystems are considerably more complex and also difficult to model. Moreover, as pollution rises and climate modifications occur, so will the dangers posed by pollution to forest health. ','-','-'),(7888,'168','Screening of Groundnut Genotypes against Pod Borers in kharif Season','Magar S.M., Mutkule D.S., Yashwant S.B., Randive D.B. and Khatake D.P. ','Screening-of-Groundnut-Genotypes-Against-Pod-Borers-in-kharif-Season-Magar-SM-231.pdf','',1,'At the Oilseed Research Station in Latur, a screening of 86 groundnut (Arachis hypogaea L.) genotypes was conducted during the 2021-2022 kharif season to assess their resistance against pod borers, namely Earwig, Wireworms and Subterranean ants. The pod damage due to earwig infestation ranged from 0 to 13.88%. For earwig infestation Out of eighty six genotypes screened for earwig pod damage. Both the genotypes HOVTSB-I 2021-19 (0.00%) and IVK-I 2021-9 (0.00%) recorded 0 per cent pod damage. However, ISK-I 2021-4 (13.88%), ISK-I 2021-3 (12.84%), AVK-2021-3(12.24%), AVK-2021-2 (11.64%) and check LGN-1(10.99%) recorded in the scale 3 having pod damage between 11 to 20 per cent. Wireworm Pod damage varied 0% to 18.07%. Genotypes HOVTSB-I 2021-19 and LSVT-I 2021-2showed no pod damage (0.00%). While other like AVK-2021-3(11.20%), AVK-2021-5(11.47%), ISK-I 2021-4(15.68%), AVK-2021-2(18.07%) and LGN-1(11.64%) recorded in the scale 3 having 11 to 20 per cent pod damage. Subterranean ants led to pod damage varying from 0 to 12.26 per cent. The genotype HOVTSB-I 2021-19 (0.00%) recorded 0 per cent pod damage. whereas, highest pod damage genotypes ISK-I 2021-26 (12.26%), ISK-2021-10 (11.17%), AVK-2021-3(10.91%), AVK-2021-2 (10.99%) and LGN-1 (10.91%) recorded in the scale 3 having 11 to 20 per cent pod damage. This study aimed to evaluate groundnut genotypes’ susceptibility to these pests, providing insights into potential resistance levels against earwigs, wireworms, and subterranean ants.','Earwig, Wireworm, Subterranean ants, Genotypes, Pod damage','In conclusion the investigation concluded the genotypes HOVTSB-I 2021-19 and IVK-I-2021-9 demonstrated minimal damage (0.00%) from earwig, while HOVTSB-2021-19 exhibited the least wireworm damage (0.00%), followed by LSVT-I 2021-2. Additionally, genotypes HOVTSB-I 2021-19 recorded no pod damage from subterranean ants. The genotype HOVTSB-I 2021-19 (0.00%) was one of unique and promising genotype resistant to earwig, wireworm & subterranean ants. Moreover, it exhibited relatively good yield, can be used as resistant source in groundnut breeding programs against pod borers. ','-','Magar S.M., Mutkule D.S., Yashwant S.B., Randive D.B. and Khatake D.P. (2023). Screening of Groundnut Genotypes Against Pod Borers in kharif Season. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 15(10): 1255-1260.'),(7889,'169','Plant Extracts as an Alternative to Synthetic Chemicals: A Review','Sonal Kumar, Smriti Dhruw, Dipendra Pankaj Porte, Nagendra Kumar Verma, Preetipuja Kashyap, R.K.S. Tiwari and Ashok Bhattacharyya ','Plant-Extracts-as-an-Alternative-to-Synthetic-Chemicals-A-Review-Sonal Kumar-5.pdf','',1,'Earth is blessed with large numbers of plant species which is approximately 30,000–50,000. This diverse group of plants contains a range of unique organic compounds like steroid, saponin, alkaloids, flavonoids, glycosides, phenols and terpenoids etc which are having antimicrobial properties. These antimicrobial properties of plant extracts like Allium sativum, Ocimum sanctum, Allium cepa, Allamanda cathartica and Azadirachta indica etc were evaluated by a number of workers and they found them effective at different levels in both in vitro as well as in vivo conditions. Agricultural crops are attacked by several fungal and bacterial plant pathogens resulting considerable economic losses which are controlled by using synthetic chemicals that lead to damage to natural flora and fauna. These synthetic pesticides may enter the food chain and ultimately reach human and animal body causing dangerous abnormalities like hypersensitivity, cancer, asthma, hormonal disturbances and skin diseases etc. Many plants contain alkaloid, phenolic and other organic compounds which can be alternative to chemical pesticides to some extent and provide opportunities for organic agriculture. Many techniques are available to evaluate different plant extracts against microorganisms, but due to some limitations, they are less competitive with commercial synthetic chemicals.','Chemicals, pathogens, antimicrobial, plant extract','Plants are valuable sources of novel, physiologically active compounds with antimicrobial properties. Because of their bioactive components, plant extracts can directly or indirectly inhibit pathogen growth. Extracts can therefore be thought of as a management tool for microbial infections since the changes brought about by the extracts are reflected in reduction of pathogen infection in plants. To assess the effectiveness of phytochemicals that have inhibitory effects on all sorts of microorganisms, in vitro and in vivo research should be conducted.','-','Sonal Kumar, Smriti Dhruw, Dipendra Pankaj Porte, Nagendra Kumar Verma, Preetipuja Kashyap, R.K.S. Tiwari and Ashok Bhattacharyya (2023). Plant Extracts as an Alternative to Synthetic Chemicals: A Review. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 15(11): 24-29.'),(7890,'169','Impact of Long-Term Fertilization and Manuring on Cation Bridging in Clay-Humus Complex under Four Soil Orders','Binder Singh, Nayan Ahmed, Abhishek Das, Prasenjit Ray, Kavitha P. Jadhav and Mohan Kumar K.T. ','Impact-of-Long-Term-Fertilization-and-Manuring-on-Cation-Bridging-in-Clay-Humus-Complex-under-Four-Soil-Orders-Binder-Singh-6.pdf','',1,'A study examined clay-humus complexes (COMF) in tropical soils (Inceptisol, Alfisol, Vertisol, Mollisol). High temperatures and leaching in these conditions challenge soil organic matter. Stabilization involves physical, chemical, and microbial mechanisms. Sustainable practices like no-till farming and organic matter additions can help. The study aimed to identify bridging cations (Ca2+, Mg2+, Fe3+/2+, Al3+) in COMF. The treatments comprised of control (no fertilization), 100% NPK (100% of recommended N, P and K through fertilizer), 50% NPK + 50% of recommended N supplied through either farm yard manure (FYM) or cereal residue (CR) or green manure (GM). Bridging cations like Ca2+, Mg2+, Fe3+/2+, Al3+ were extracted with 0.1 N citrate, 0.1 EDTA, and 0.1 ammonium oxalate at pH 7. Ca2+ is dominant in the Inceptisol clay–humus extract. In Alfisol sample apart from monovalent cations, bonding is mainly through Al3+. The extract from Vertisol sample contains little Fe3+/2+ or Al3+ and major bonding is through Ca2+ in Mollisol Ca2+, Mg2+ and Fe3+/2+ are all involved in bonding. Irrespective of all the soil types EDTA showed better extraction of Ca2+ and Mg2+ compared to citrate and ammonium oxalate whereas ammonium oxalate showed better extraction of Al3+. In Inceptisol and Alfisol Al3+ content was the highest under NPK + CR and lowest under control. Application of NPK + GM or NPK + FYM or NPK+CR showed better bridging cations over control in COMF.','Clay-humus complex, Cation Bridging, Organic Manure, FYM, EDTA, Ammonium oxalate, Citric acid','Long-term application of inorganic and organic sources like FYM, crop residue and green manure significantly increased the bridging cations in clay humus which might lead to higher carbon stability in these treatments. Among the cations Fe and Ca concentrations was higher and they might play key role in clay humus bridging. Knowledge of the binding bridging cations and clay mineral contributes to our understanding of the sequestration process of SOM and clay humus stability.','-','Binder Singh, Nayan Ahmed, Abhishek Das, Prasenjit Ray, Kavitha P. Jadhav and Mohan Kumar K.T. (2023). Impact of Long-Term Fertilization and Manuring on Cation Bridging in Clay-Humus Complex under Four Soil Orders. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 15(11): 30-35.'),(7891,'169','The Effect of Growth Inhibitors on the Growth, Roots, and Flowering Attributes of Crossandra (Crossandra infundibuliformis) in Pot','Meghana K., D.V.S. Raju, A.V.D. Dorajee Rao, M Ravindra Babu and P. Subbramamma ','The-Effect-of-Growth-Inhibitors-on-the-Growth,-Roots,-and-Flowering-Attributes-of-Crossandra-(Crossandra-infundibuliformis)-in-Pot-Durga-Hemanth-Kumar-Ch-7.pdf','',1,'Under potted conditions, application of MH @ 600 ppm resulted in maximum, number of leaves per plant and root-shoot ratio as compared to other treatments. The maximum length of the leaves was observed in the control plants which was followed by cycocel @ 500 ppm. Foliar application of cycocel @ 1500 ppm recorded the maximum leaf width when compared to other treatments. Significant differences were observed with the various flowering attributes upon the application of growth retardants. It was observed that maleic hydrazide @ 600 ppm recorded maximum florets per spike, longevity of spike in field, longevity of florets on the spike. The maximum floret length was observed with cycocel @ 1500 ppm. The minimum length of floret, longevity of spike in the field and longevity of floret on spike was observed with the application of paclobutrazol @ 1500 ppm.','Crossandra, cycocel, paclobutrazol, maleic hydrazide','Based on the data, it can be concluded that foliar spraying of MH @ 600 ppm was advantageous for efficiently suppressing vegetative growth while having no negative effect on crossandra blooming and rooting properties.','-','Meghana K., D.V.S. Raju, A.V.D. Dorajee Rao, M Ravindra Babu and P. Subbramamma (2023). The Effect of Growth Inhibitors on the Growth, Roots, and Flowering Attributes of Crossandra (Crossandra infundibuliformis) in Pot. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 15(11): 36-38.'),(7892,'168','Performance of Sorghum based intercropping System in Northern Dry Zone of Karnataka','Sanjeevkumar M.S., Krishnamurthy D., Ramesha Y.M., Ajayakumar M.Y. and Narayana Rao K. ','Performance-of-Sorghum-based-intercropping-System-in-Northern-Dry-Zone-of-Karnataka-Krishnamurthy-D-232.pdf','',1,'A field experiment was conducted during rabi season of 2020-21 at Agricultural Research Station, Hagari on medium deep black soil to study the performance of sorghum based intercropping system in Northern Dry Zone of Karnataka. Growing of sole sorghum may not be profitable. Again, continuous sole cropping of sorghum may lead to decline in yield levels mainly because of conspicuous of nitrogen in particular and other nutrients in general. The lower productivity of rabi sorghum has been attributed to the fact that large area is under rainfed condition in addition to that cost of cultivation also increased due to shortage of labours, higher input prices and fluctuation of market price. In order to minimize the risk and maximize the net income for farmer, the suitable rabi crop selection as intercrop has to be done in sorghum based intercropping system. Keeping the above information in view, an investigation was carried out to study the suitable intercrop under rabi grain sorghum based cropping system in northern dry zone of Karnataka. The experiment consists of ten treatment combinations with five rabi crops (Sorghum, chickpea, safflower, linseed and coriander). The experiment was laid out in randomized complete block design and replicated four times. Significantly taller plants (264.8 cm), more number of leaves (5.9), higher leaf area (22.3 dm2 plant-1), dry matter production (98.7 g plant-1), number of grains earhead-1 (749.2), grain weight (27.5 g plant-1). Significantly higher grain, stover and biological yield (1670, 4401 and 6071 kg ha-1, respectively) of sorghum was recorded in sole sorghum followed by sorghum + bengalgram (2:1) (1301, 3374 and 4674 kg ha-1, respectively). Significantly lower stover and biological yield (2983 and 4130 kg ha-1) was noticed in sorghum + linseed (2:1). Gross returns, and benefit-cost ratio (Rs. 84636 ha-1, Rs. 49520 ha-1 and 2.41, respectively) were significantly higher with sorghum + bengalgram in 2:1. Significantly lower gross returns, net returns and benefit-cost ratio (Rs. 26678 ha-1, Rs. 330 ha-1 and 1.01) were noticed in sole coriander.','Chickpea, coriander, intercropping system, linseed, net returns, safflower, sorghum, sorghum equivalent yield, yield','The experimental findings indicated that there were marked variations in the productivity of sorghum was observed with different intercropping system. Based on the present investigation, it can be concluded that sorghum crop grown with bengalgram in 2:1 row proportion is most productive, economically viable, sustainable, remunerative and superior as they recorded higher net returns (Rs. 49520 ha-1) and benefit cost ratio (2.41) compared to sole and other intercropping system.','-','Sanjeevkumar M.S., Krishnamurthy D., Ramesha Y.M., Ajayakumar M.Y. and Narayana Rao K. (2023). Performance of Sorghum based intercropping System in Northern Dry Zone of Karnataka. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 15(10): 1261-1265.'),(7893,'168','Influence of Salicylic Acid and Gibberellic Acid on Biochemical Parameters, Yield and Yield Contributing Parameters of Black Gram','Anjali Devidas Sable, P.V. Shende, S.A. Patil and Vandana Kalamkar ','Influence-of-Salicylic-Acid-and-Gibberellic-Acid-on-Biochemical-Parameters,-Yield-and-Yield-Contributing-Parameters-of-Black-Gram--Anjali-Devidas-Sable-233.pdf','',1,'In Kharif 2022, a field experiment was conducted at Research farm of Agricultural Botany section, College of Agriculture, Nagpur. The experiment was laid out in RBD with three replications consisting often treatments. The treatments composed of foliar spray of two plant growth regulators of different concentrations viz., Gibberellic acid (50 ppm, 100 ppm, 150 ppm and 200 ppm) and Salicylic acid (50 ppm, 100 ppm, 150 ppm and 200 ppm) along with control spraying was done at 25 DAS. Results showed that foliar application of salicylic acid and gibberellic acid sprayed at 25 DAS significantly improved biochemical parameters like nitrogen content in leaves, protein content in seed, total chlorophyll content in leaves and yield parameters like number of pods plant-1, test weight, seed yield ha-1, harvest index and B:C ratio. Treatment T9 (Salicylic acid @ 150ppm) showed significantly higher results in all parameters under study. Effect of salicylic acid and gibberellic acid application was influenced by various environmental conditions and for accurate conclusion it is essential to understand the sensitivity of the black gram variety to prevailing conditions. The timing of salicylic acid and gibberellic acid application is critical and sophisticated analytical techniques are required for accurate measurement of biochemical parameters. To overcome these challenges, well-controlled experiments should be designed by considering multiple factors in collaboration with experts in plant physiology and biochemistry.','Vigna mungo, salicylic acid, gibberellic acid, biochemical parameters, yield contributing parameters, growth regulators','Application of Salicylic acid @ 150 ppm showed highest result in biochemical and yield parameters. The application of foliar nutrition helps to overcome the specific occurrence of stress and as a result of maximum vegetative growth due to optimized nutrition of the plant.','-','Anjali Devidas Sable, P.V. Shende, S.A. Patil and Vandana Kalamkar (2023). Influence of Salicylic acid and Gibberellic Acid on Biochemical Parameters, Yield and Yield Contributing Parameters of Black Gram. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 15(10): 1266-1269.'),(7894,'168','Effect of Irrigation Scheduling and Integrated Nutrient Management on Soil Moisture, Water Productively and Soil Fertility in Wheat','Munesh Kumar, Dig Vijay Dubey, Mahesh Keer, Balkrishna Namdeo, Ashok Kumar Verma and Shriman Kumar Patel ','Effect-of-Irrigation-Scheduling-and-Integrated-Nutrient-Management-on-Soil-Moisture,-Water-Productively-and-Soil-Fertility-in-Wheat-Munesh-Kumar-234.pdf','',1,'A field experiment was conducted during rabi 2020-21 and 2021-22 at Agriculture research farm, RNTU, Raisen, entitled “Effect of irrigation scheduling and integrated nutrient management on soil moisture, water productively and soil fertility”. The treatments combination consists of two factors such as irrigation scheduling and integrated nutrient management practices. The treatment were: Factor A: Irrigation scheduling (I0-CRI, late, Jointing, and milking stage, I1-CRI, late jointing, flowering and milking stage, I2-Irrigation with (0.8 IW/CPE) and I3-Irrigation with (1.0 IW/CPE) and Factor B: Integrated nutrient management practices (F0-100% RDF+ZnSO4 30 kg, F1-75% RDF +25% RDN through FYM+ZnSO4 25 kg/ha, F2-50% RDF+50% RDN through FYM +ZnSO4 20 kg/ha and F3-100 kg+25% RDN through FYM+ZnSO4 15 kg/ha). The experiment was laid out in split plot design with three replications. The results revealed that the irrigation levels and nutrient management treatments did not influence significant variation on moisture content at sowing of wheat crop during both the years of experiment (2020-21 and 2021-22). Significant difference was observed with irrigation levels on water use efficiency (13.16 and 13.21 kg/ha/mm) and water productivity (1.74 and 1.39 kg/m3) in wheat during 2020-21 and 2021-22, respectively. Application of F3 gave highest water use efficiency (10.14 and 9.88 kg/ha/mm) and water productivity (1.66 and 1.12 kg/m3) which was significantly superior over other treatments. The highest available nitrogen of 96.48 and 97.28 kg/ha and phosphorus of 55.23 and 57.29 kg/ha during 2020-21 and 2021-22 were recorded with I0. Potassium was maximum (421.54 and 419.65 kg/ha during 2020-21 and 2021-22, respectively) under the treatment I2 (Irrigation with 0.8 IW/CPE). Among fertility grades, maximum available nitrogen of 112.89 and 114.67 kg/ha were recorded under the treatment F0 (100% RDF + ZnSO4 30 kg) and maximum phosphorus of 56.68 and 57.12 kg/ha were recorded under the treatment F1 (75% RDF + 25% RDN through FYM + ZnSO4 25kg/ha) during 2020-21 and 2021-22. However, the maximum potassium was recorded under F2 (50% RDF + 50% RDN through FYM + ZnSO4 20 kg/ha) in 2020-21 and F3 (100 kg + 25% RDN through FYM + ZnSO4 15 kg/ha) in 2021-22. ','Irrigation scheduling, INM, water productivity and soil fertility','Based on two year of experimentation, the irrigation at CRI, late, Jointing, and milking stage in wheat was obtained superior for WUE, water productivity and available N and P. Application of 50% RDF+50% RDN through FYM +ZnSO4 20 kg/ha recorded the maximum WUE and water productivity. However, the maximum available nitrogen was recorded under the treatment F0 (100% RDF+ZnSO4 30 kg) and maximum phosphorus was recorded under the treatment F1 (75% RDF +25% RDN through FYM+ZnSO4 25 kg/ha).','-','Munesh Kumar, Dig Vijay Dubey, Mahesh Keer, Balkrishna Namdeo, Ashok Kumar Verma and Shriman Kumar Patel (2023). Effect of Irrigation Scheduling and Integrated Nutrient Management on Soil Moisture, Water Productively and Soil Fertility. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 15(10): 1270-1273.'),(7895,'168','Proteomic Differences in the Milk Fat Globule Membrane (MGFM) Between High and Low Milk Yielding Sahiwal Cows','Mahanthesh M.T., Sudarshan Kumar, Jagjiwan Ram, Rohit Kumar, Preethi Bharadwaj, Sumit Singh and A.K. Mohanty ','Proteomic-Differences-in-the-Milk-Fat-Globule-Membrane-(MGFM)-Between-High-and-Low-Milk-Yielding-Sahiwal-Cows-Sudarshan-Kumar-235.pdf','',1,'In the present study we have studied the proteomic differences in the milk fat globule membranes of high versus low milk yielding Sahiwal cows (n=12 each). The proteins extracted from milk cream fat were subjected to trypsin digestion and peptides were labelled with Tandem Mass Tag (TMT) and identified quantitatively by LC- MS/MS. Identification using the Mascot search engine revealed 1716 proteins, out of which 439 proteins were differentially expressed (DEPs).Separated the down-regulated and up-regulated proteins based on the protein fold change data obtained from the LC- MS/MS protein analysis. We found 154 up-regulated Proteins and 285 down-regulated Proteins and further selected best 12 up-regulated proteins in low yielders sahiwal cattle and 12 down-regulated proteins from high milk producing sahiwal cattle. The DEPs were further subjected to gene ontology and pathway analysis using Cytoscape plug-in tool that showed involvement of proteins in catalytic activities, binding, enzyme regulatory activities, response to wounding and the acute inflammatory response, endopeptidase inhibitor activity and apoptosis. Proteome guided genomic selection gives accurate signature protein biomarkers for high versus low milk yielding Sahiwal cattle.','Proteomics, Milk fat globule membrane, Sahiwal cattle, Differentially expressed proteins, LCMS','In present study we show those 12 up-regulated proteins in high yielders and 12 down-regulated proteins in high yielders of Sahiwal cattle. Therefore, these differentially expressed proteins in high versus low milk yielding Sahiwal cattle may be considered as protein biomarkers for differentiating between high versus low milk yielding Sahiwal cattle.','-','Mahanthesh M.T., Sudarshan Kumar, Jagjiwan Ram, Rohit Kumar, Preethi Bharadwaj, Sumit Singh and A.K. Mohanty (2023). Proteomic Differences in the Milk Fat Globule Membrane (MGFM) Between High and Low Milk Yielding Sahiwal Cows. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 15(10): 1274-1281.'),(7896,'168','The Effect of Organic and Inorganic Substances on Post Harvest Life of Tuberose','Alka and Samir Kumar Tamrakar','The-Effect-of-Organic-and-Inorganic-Substances-on-Post-Harvest-Life-of-Tuberose-Alka-236.pdf','',1,'An experiment was carried out to study the effect of organic and inorganic substances on post harvest life of tuberose for two years from 2021 to 2023. The experiment was laid out in factorial randomized block design with three replications consisting eighteen treatments of organic and inorganic substances, viz., boric acid (2 % and 4 %), Salicylic acid (50 and 100 ppm), sodium benzoate (25 and 50 ppm), cow urine 20 %, Humic acid 5 %, GA3 (100 and 150 ppm), NAA (50 and 100 ppm), coconut water 20 %, FeSO4 (2 % and 4 %) and ZnSO4 (2 % and 4 %) and control. The results of pooled analysis of two years indicated that the spikes of tuberose treated with 4% boric acid and Salicylic acid 100 ppm significantly improved the post harvest life. Among post harvest parameters maximum flower diameter (4.60 cm) was recorded from boric acid 4 % whereas, application of Salicylic acid 100 ppm also recorded significantly minimum physiological weight loss (27.30 %), maximum membrane stability index (27.30 %). The maximum total soluble solids (17.97) and maximum florets opening (87.00 %) were also recorded in the same treatment. Quick dip of tuberose spikes in 4% boric acid and Salicylic acid 100 ppm were found beneficial for improving post harvest life of tuberose spikes.','Boric acid, Florets, Salicylic acid, Spike, Substances, Tuberose','From the present investigation, it can be concluded that quick dip (20 seconds) with boric acid @ 4% and Salicylic acid 100 ppm improved the postharvest life of tuberose flowers with maximum flower diameter, minimum physiological weight loss, maximum membrane stability index, maximum total soluble solids and maximum florets opening %.','-','Alka and Samir Kumar Tamrakar (2023). The Effect of Organic and Inorganic Substances on Post Harvest Life of Tuberose. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 15(10): 1282-1288.'),(7897,'168','Effect of Seed Treatment on Sorghum Yield, Germination and Oviposition of Atherigona soccata Rondani','Sakshi Saxena, A.K. Badaya, Shivani Suman, Kanchan Baghla, Nishikant Yadav and Sitaram Seervi ','Effect-of-Seed-Treatment-on-Sorghum-Yield,-Germination-and-Oviposition-of-Atherigona-soccata-Rondani-SAKSHI-SAXENA-237.pdf','',1,'The present investigation aims to examine the effectiveness of a few recently introduced systemic insecticide as seed dressers and their combined effect against the sorghum shoot fly. A field study carried out in three replications using a Randomized Block Design at the College of Agriculture\'s Sorghum Research Field in Indore, Madhya Pradesh, during the 2019–20 Kharif season. The sorghum variety CSV 15 was examined for Atherigona soccata oviposition, yield, and germination using six seed dressing chemicals, soil treatment of carbofuran 3G, and an untreated control. The highest germination rate (94.93%), maximum grain yield (23.67q-ha-1), and most avoidable loss (64.93%) were observed by the seed treatment with Thiamethoxam + Cyantraniliprole. Seed treated with Thiamethoxam 30 FS, Fipronil 5 SC and Chlorantraniliprole 18.5 SC also recorded better germination and yield compare to control. The oviposition of shoot fly recorded (5.74 egg/plant) highest in treatment Thiamethoxam + Cyantraniliprole and lowest (3.77) in soil application of Carbofuran 3G as compare to control due to pytotonic effect. Due to variation in the agro climatic conditions of different regions, insects show varying trends in their incidence pattern and extent of damage to the crop. Chemical control solely shows costly and it requires continual applications against target pest. Therefore, the seed treatment seems to be a plausible option for pest management. Thus, it is concluded that for the management of shoot fly seed treatment with (T5) thiamethoxam (19.8 w/w) + cyantraniliprole (19.8 w/w) 6 ml/kg followed by thiamethoxam 30 FS 10 ml/kg (T4) can be recommended on sorghum.','Germination, oviposition, shoot fly, sorghum, Thiamethoxam, Cyantraniliprole','The seed treated with thiamethoxam (19.8 w/w) + cyantraniliprole (19.8 w/w) 6 ml/kg of seed increased germination percent and grain production, according to the results of the field investigations. Thiamethoxam 30 FS 10 ml/kg was the next treatment to achieve these same results. The shoot fly\'s mean preference for oviposition revealed that the ready-mix combination of Thiamethoxam (19.8 w/w) + Cyantraniliprole (19.8 w/w) 6 ml/kg found maximum number of eggs, followed by seed treated with Thiamethoxam 30 FS 10 ml/kg. The phytotonic impact caused the lowest number of eggs to be detected in untreated plots. Consequently, it can be said that (T5) Thiamethoxam (19.8 w/w) + Cyantraniliprole (19.8 w/w) 6 ml/kg demonstrated the most successful control of shoot fly seed treatment, which is justified because it is a novel combination that has not been evaluated before.','-','Sakshi Saxena, A.K. Badaya, Shivani Suman, Kanchan Baghla, Nishikant Yadav and Sitaram Seervi (2023). Effect of Seed Treatment on Sorghum Yield, Germination and Oviposition of Atherigona soccata Rondani. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 15(10): 1289-1293.'),(7898,'168','Evaluation of Sensorial Attributes of Pomegranate Syrup based RTS with the Fusion of chia Seeds and Sensorial Attributes','Gouthami Y., Bhuvaneshwari G., S.L. Jagadeesh, Vasant M. Ganiger, Chandrashekhar V. M., D.L. Rudresh and Anand Nanjappanavar','Evaluation-of-Sensorial-Attributes-of-Pomegranate-Syrup-based-RTS-with-the-Fusion-of-chia-Seeds-and-Sensorial-Attributes-7410-Gouthami-Y-238.pdf','',1,'Pomegranate is a commercially/economically extensive fruit crop grown all around the world. Pomegranate juice is delectable one which is immensely invigorating and recommended for patients suffering from gastrointestinal in convenience due to its medicinal value. Chia seeds are known as super food as it contains high potent of essential fatty acids, dietary fibres, vitamins and antioxidants. From the health point of view, omega-3 fatty acids are of thoughtfulness because they are influential element in the membranes of brain cells, cardiomyocytes and the rods and cones of the retina. Chia could also be a good source of gel. The melioration of product has become an evoking interest tool in modern fruit beverage processing industry, in the developing of new beverages of superior grade having sensory and nourishing properties. Enrichment of the product not solely boost the attribute and nutrition but also leads to the emergence of new product advancement. In this investigate, nutritious pomegranate juice and immersed chia seeds were exploit at various combinations (100:0, 90:10, 85:15 and 80:20) using both sucrose and fructose for preparation of pomegranate RTS by incorporation of chia seeds. The study disclosed that RTS prepared with 90 per cent pomegranate juice and 10 per cent chia seeds scored maximum for almost all sensorial attributes.','Pomegranate juice, chia seeds, fructose, sucrose, sensory characteristics','Chia seeds incorporated pomegranate syrup with combination of 90 per cent Pomegranate juice + 10 per cent Chia seeds + Fructose (45º Brix) had a better acceptability by the panellists.','-','¬¬¬¬Gouthami Y., Bhuvaneshwari G., S.L. Jagadeesh, Vasant M. Ganiger, Chandrashekhar V. M., D.L. Rudresh and Anand Nanjappanavar (2023). Evaluation of Sensorial Attributes of Pomegranate Syrup based RTS with the Fusion of chia Seeds and Sensorial Attributes . Biological Forum – An International Journal, 15(10): 1294-1298.'),(7899,'168','Studies on Effectiveness and Efficiency of Gamma Rays, Ethyl Methane Sulphonate and Sodium Azide in Mungbean (Vigna radiata (L.) Wilczek)','S. Sofia, D. M. Reddy, K.H.P. Reddy, P. Latha, B. Ravindra Reddy and M. Sreevalli Devi','Studies-on-Effectiveness-and-Efficiency-of-Gamma-Rays,-Ethyl-Methane-Sulphonate-and-Sodium-Azide-in-Mungbean-(Vigna-radiata-(L.)-Wilczek)-S-Sofia-239.pdf','',1,'In the present study, dry seeds of two mungbean varieties viz., WGG-42 and LGG-460 were treated with different doses/ concentrations of gamma rays (200 Gy, 300 Gy, 400 Gy, 500 Gy and 600 Gy), ethyl methane sulphonate (0.2%, 0.3%, 0.4%, 0.5% and 0.6%) and sodium azide (1 mM, 2 mM and 3 mM) to study the mutagenic effectiveness and efficiency of gamma rays, ethyl methane sulphonate and sodium azide in induction of chlorophyll mutations in M2 generation. Three types of chlorophyll mutants viz., albina, xantha and chlorina were observed in M2 generation and occurrence of chlorina was found to be the most frequent in all the mutagen treated populations of both the varieties. The frequency of chlorophyll mutations increased with the increase in dose/concentration of mutagens in both the genotypes, but EMS treatments showed the highest frequency of chlorophyll mutations than gamma rays and SA treatments. The results indicated that the values of mutagenic effectiveness and efficiency gradually decreased with increases in dose/concentration of mutagens. The EMS treatments were found to be more effective and efficient in inducing chlorophyll mutants than gamma rays and sodium azide in both the varieties. Thus, it is concluded that the lower doses/concentrations of mutagens are more useful to induce different type of chlorophyll mutants in mungben.','Gamma rays, EMS, SA, chlorophyll mutants, effectiveness and efficiency, M2, mungbean','From the results of the present study, it can be inferred that the frequency of chlorophyll mutations increased with the increase in dose/concentration of mutagens in both the genotypes, but EMS treatments showed the highest frequency of chlorophyll mutations than gamma rays and SA treatments. Mutagenic effectiveness and efficiency gradually decreased with increases in dose/concentration of mutagens. It was also inferred from the present study, EMS treatments were found to be more effective and efficient in inducing chlorophyll mutants than gamma rays and SA treatments in both the varieties viz., WGG-42 and LGG-460. These results suggest that high mutation rates could be obtained with lower/moderate dose/concentration of mutagens in mungbean.','-','S. Sofia, D. M. Reddy, K.H.P. Reddy, P. Latha, B. Ravindra Reddy and M. Sreevalli Devi (2023). Studies on Effectiveness and Efficiency of Gamma Rays, Ethyl Methane Sulphonate and Sodium Azide in Mungbean (Vigna radiata (L.) Wilczek). Biological Forum – An International Journal, 15(10): 1299-1304.'),(7900,'168','Soybean Bacterial Endophytes Bacillus subtilis (EB-1) and Bacillus amyloliquefaciens (EB-2) against Anthracnose survival in Leaf and Soil','Sapna Jaiswal, Jayant Bhatt, Laxman Singh Rajput, Hemant Singh Maheshwari, Vibha Pandey, Mahaveer Prasad Sharma, Vennampally Nataraj and Sanjeev Kumar','Soybean-Bacterial-Endophytes-Bacillus-subtilis-(EB-1)-and-Bacillus-amyloliquefaciens-(EB-2)-against-Anthracnose-survival-in-Leaf-and-Soil-Sapna-Jaiswal-240.pdf','',4,'Bacterial endophytes employ various direct and indirect mechanisms for plant growth promotion under biotic stress upon colonization. To successfully establish endophytes as plant growth promoters, colonization and population density-dependent process, quorum sensing is essential. Therefore, the present study aimed at assessing the efficacy of foliar and basal application of two soybean plant growth-promoting bacterial endophytes having biocontrol activity against soybean anthracnose, namely Bacillus subtilis strain 5 (EB-1) and Bacillus amyloliquefaciens strain 14 (EB-2) in the soybean seedling. These two endophytes priliminarily screened for antibiotic resistance using a disc diffusion method to make the selective culture medium suitable for bacterial re-isolation from plant tissues. Bacterial endophytes were applied as foliar and basal inoculation on the soybean variety. Then, the bacterial population within the leaf tissues and rhizosphere soil was enumerated in the nutrient agar plate amended with antibiotics. Our study showed that the EB-1 and EB-2 showed significantly lower survival in the leaf tissues and the rhizospheric soils. However, the bacterium EB-1 and EB-2 survival rates were significantly higher in the leaf and soil tissue, respectively, compared with each other. Further, we identified the maximum survival period of these bacterial endophytes was 30 days in leaf tissue. Therefore, the present findings showed that endophytic bacterial suspension has to be applied at 30-day intervals. And we identified the maximum survival period of these bacterial endophytes in leaf tissue and soil and explained their role in providing biological control against diseases.','Bacillus subtilis (EB-1), Bacillus amyloliquefaciens (EB-2), colonization, antibiotic susceptibility, Anthracnose, and survival','We concluded that both the soybean bacterial endophytes applied through foliar and basal inoculation near the stem showed a significant decrease in the bacterial population. However, soybean bacterial endophytes could survive for up to 30 days in the leaf tissues. Therefore, we need to spray the bacterial suspension every 30 days to see the positive effect on plant growth and the inhibitory action against soybean anthracnose. Furthermore, other methods of bacterial delivery, such as seed treatments, should be tested for the survival and efficacy of the endophytes.','-','Sapna Jaiswal, Jayant Bhatt, Laxman Singh Rajput, Hemant Singh Maheshwari, Vibha Pandey, Mahaveer Prasad Sharma, Vennampally Nataraj and Sanjeev Kumar (2023). Soybean Bacterial Endophytes Bacillus subtilis (EB-1) and Bacillus amyloliquefaciens (EB-2) against Anthracnose survival in Leaf and Soil. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 15(10): 1305-1309.'),(7901,'168','Assessment of Yield, Yield-related Traits and Drought Tolerance of Linseed Genotypes (Linum usitatissimum L.)','Achal B. Jagzape, Prema R. Manapure, Beena M. Nair, Treio Dkhar, Sapana B. Baviskar and Gopal D. Nawale ','Assessment-of-Yield,-Yield-related-Traits-and-Drought-Tolerance-of-Linseed-Genotypes-(Linum-usitatissimum-L.)-Achal-B-Jagzape-240.pdf','',1,'A field experiment was conducted during rabi 2022-23, to study the drought tolerance in different genotypes of linseed under rainfed and irrigated condition genotypes NL 367, NL 371, NL 407, NL 408, RL 18114, BAU 2021-06, T 397, JLS 95 (C), LSL -93 (C), PKV NL- 260 (LC) were studied. The experiment was laid down in Randomized Block Design with ten genotypes and three replications at research farm of AICRP on Linseed and Mustard, College of Agriculture, Nagpur. It is important to screen and identify the drought tolerant and widely adoptable genotypes in respect to yield and yield contributing traits, which could perform uniformly under different environmental condition. The aim of this work was to study the drought tolerant associated morpho-physiological traits and yield of linseed under rainfed and irrigated condition. Observations about morpho-physiological parameters like plant height, number of branches plant-1, number of capsule plant-1, relative water content, root volume, root length and chlorophyll content (SPAD) were also estimated. Observations on yield traits like grain yield plot-1 ha-1. Seven genotypes of linseed with three checks were evaluated in Randomised Block Design for 13 morphological characters under two environments, irrigated and rainfed during rabi 2022-23. Significant differences were observed among the genotypes for all the characters studied under both the conditions. Recorded Genotypes PKV NL 260 followed by LSL 93 (C) NL 367 and NL 408 were significantly enhanced morpho-physiological traits and yield of linseed under rainfed condition, when compared with national check T-397 and rest of the genotypes under study.','Linseed, drought tolerance, yield, Morpho-physiological parameters','The genotypes of linseed in rainfed moisture stress condition showed significant variation in morpho-physiological parameters were recorded significantly higher values in PKV NL 260 followed by LSL 93 (C), NL 367 and NL 408 which are to be drought tolerant genotypes. None of the genotypes showed significant increment in yield attributing characters under rainfed moisture stress condition over best PKV NL 260 local check genotype. PKV NL 260 followed by LSL 93 (C), NL 367 and NL 408 recorded significantly highest values for yield and yield attributing traits, viz., Yield and yield attributing characters (number of capsules plant-1, test weight, seed yield plant-1 and seed yield plot-1), which are said to be drought tolerant genotypes. The genotype of linseed under rainfed moisture stress condition study, local check PKV NL-260 (LC) was significantly superior due to enhanced all morpho- physiological, chemical and biochemical and yield contributing characters.','-','Achal B. Jagzape, Prema R. Manapure, Beena M. Nair, Treio Dkhar, Sapana B. Baviskar and Gopal D. Nawale (2023). Assessment of Yield, Yield-related Traits and Drought Tolerance of Linseed Genotypes (Linum usitatissimum L.). Biological Forum – An International Journal, 15(10): 1305-1309.'),(7902,'168','Influence of Sole and Intercropping System on Seed Yield and Quality in Soybean','Gnyandev B., Umesh Hiremath, Shivakumar B. Bagli, Basave Gowda, Sunilkumar N.M. and Ningdalli Mallikarjun','Influence-of-Sole-and-Intercropping-System-on-Seed-Yield-and-Quality-in-Soybean-Gnyandev-B-241.pdf','',1,'Globally, cultivable land has decreased due to population increase and industrialization. Industrialization and globalization in agriculture and food supply endanger the future of humanity and environment. A huge amount of energy requires for production the synthetic of fertilizers and pesticides. Moreover, agrochemicals can cause environmental degradation and disruption and human health risks. Many scientists nowadays are getting worried about the environmental and health risks of industrialized agricultural practices, and they are reconsideration low-technology alternatives Sustainable agriculture aims to simulate nature as the pattern for designing agricultural systems an important principle for sustainable agriculture is to create and maintain diversity, integrating plants and animals into a diverse land scape. A sustainable agricultural approach is crop diversification using resource-efficient and lucrative cropping techniques. Intercropping is frequently used by smallholders in developing nations to grow crops with increased yield and value. Many intercropping studies have been conducted under experimental conditions, but few studies have been performed in farmers’ fields. On farm demonstration with diversified cropping system of soybean + redgram Vis-a-Vis farmers’ practice of sole soybean was conducted in farmer’s field for two years duringKharif2020-21 and 2021-22 in Bidar district, Karnataka to study the influence of sole and intercropping system on seed yield and quality in soybean. The treatments consisted of two factors, Factor-I included two varieties of soybean viz., a) V1: JS-335 and b) V2: DSb-21 and Factor-II included Two cropping system a) Intercrop (C1) and b) Sole crop (C2). The treatments were laid out in factorial RCBD and replicated thrice. The results revealed that significant difference was noticed between the two soybean varieties grown as sole crop on seed yield and quality parameters except for seedling vigour index, where as in second factor the comparison between sole and intercrop treatment didn’t differ significantly which was found to be on par with each other in almost all the parameters except for the yield although there was just slight difference between both the treatments which recorded 2.65 kg per plot and 21.47 q per ha in sole crop (C2) and 2.50 kg per plot and 20.27 q per ha in intercrop (C1) and the interaction between the two factors was found to be non significant.','Soybean, redgram, intercrop and seed yield','From the findings of the experiment studied on influence of sole and intercropping system on seed yield and quality in soybean, it can be concluded that among the two varieties of soybean, the performance of V1: JS-335 was slightly better than V2: DSb-21 in seed yield and quality parameters and between sole crop and intercropping the soybean crop performed better as a sole crop but the performance of the crop was on par with redgram intercropped with soybean in 1:4 ratio in terms of the yield and quality parameters. It can be concluded opting for intercropping there will be effective utilization of land and water resource with minimum cost of cultivation and which yield more as compared to sole crop by harvesting two crops from the same piece of land.','-','Gnyandev B., Umesh Hiremath, Shivakumar B. Bagli, Basave Gowda, Sunilkumar N.M. and Ningdalli Mallikarjun (2023). Influence of Sole and Intercropping System on Seed Yield and Quality in Soybean. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 15(10): 1310-1316.'),(7903,'168','Mechanism of Redox Reaction in Soil Chemistry','Abirami R., S. Jothimani and D. Leninraja ','Mechanism-of-Redox-Reaction-in-Soil-Chemistry-Abirami-R-242.pdf','',1,'Soil chemical reactions involve both oxidation and reduction reactions, which together are called redox reactions. Soil pH mainly controls the redox reaction process. Another indicator of a redox reaction is redox potential. The relationship between soil pH and Eh is based on soil condition; acid soil raises pH due to a decrease in redox potential, whereas alkaline soils are antithetical. The changes in these reactions in soil interrupt the presence of microorganisms and their growth development. Some microorganisms require oxidized elements for their survival, and the enzymatic action of microorganisms may adversely affect the redox reaction. The transformation of the elements and the availability of nutrients in soil are also influenced by redox reactions. This paper mainly reviews the redox reaction in various aspects that are connected to pH relations, the response of microorganisms, its effect on soil fertility, nutrient availability, plant growth, and the response of plants due to the redox reaction, which are all positioned in the existing documents. Need more investigation to determine the individual factors contribution.','Redox reaction, relations between pH and Eh, nutrient status, plant response to Eh, microorganism response to Eh','The oxidation and reduction of the soil are major factors that influence nutrient availability, which directly affects plant survival, growth, and productivity (Pezeshki and DeLaune 2012). The presence or absence of soil microbes is determined by oxidation and reduction potential. The redox potential is greater than 100 mV (moderately reduced and oxidized), offering the microbes oxidation and reduction status of soil, whereas the redox reaction is less than 100 mV (reduced and highly reduced soil). The effect of soil texture is not significant and reduces oxidation and reduction status (Olufemi Gabriel Dayo-Olagbende, 2020). In soils with low organic matter, slowing down the reduction process results in less benefit in terms of soil fertility under submerged conditions (Sahrawat 1998; Narteh and Sahrawat 1999, 2000). Soil pH was greatly altered the soil condition due to the result of oxidation and reduction reaction. The oxidation process tends pH towards acidity or alkalinity; however, the reduction process tends pH towards a neutral condition (Dayo-Olagbende et al., 2022).','-','Abirami R., S. Jothimani and D. Leninraja (2023). Mechanism of Redox Reaction in Soil Chemistry. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 15(10): 1317-1321.'),(7904,'168','Over-expression of NPR1 gene in Brassica juncea Leads to Resistance Against Alternaria brassicae Infection','Rajendra Prasad Meena, Raina Bajpai, Aparna, Rakesh Kumar and Anita Grover','Over-expression-of-NPR1-gene-in-Brassica-juncea-Leads-to-Resistance-Against-Alternaria-brassicae-Infection-Rajendra-Prasad-Meena-243.pdf','',1,'Alternaria blight is one of the serious diseases of Brassica juncea causing 45-58% loss in the yield. In the present days the most common method to control this biotic issue is the chemical method. However, use of these chemicals causes huge damage to the human health, plant health and eventually polluting our ecosystem. Thus, manipulating defense regulatory genes [e.g. NoPR1 (NPR1) gene] is one of the safest strategies which is being followed internationally to manage this disease. Previously in order to develop resistance against Alternaria brassicae, nineteen putative transgenic lines of B.juncea having NPR1 gene under control of 35S promoter were developed. In the present study, these transgenic lines were confirmed for gene integration, expression and its effect on resistance against Alternaria. Gene integration was confirmed by PCR with NPTII primers. In order to reconfirm the NPR1gene integration, PCR was done using 35S forward primer and NPR1 reverse primer. All the nineteen putative lines were found to be positive. Further, RT-PCR with NPR1 primers was done to check levels of gene expression. Eleven lines namely (1, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9, 11, 12, 14, 16, 18) were found to be over expressing NPR1 by about 5 fold over non transgenic control while other eight lines (2, 3, 4, 10, 13, 15, 17, 19) did not show such high expression (only 2 fold). Seven lines encompassing both high NPR1 expressing and not so high NPR1 expressing, were analyzed for disease resistance. Resistance was scored in terms of time of onset of symptoms, lesions number and lesion size. The symptoms of infection were observed on day 3 after inoculation in control plants whereas those in transgenic plants symptoms were observed on day 7 after inoculation. The levels of resistance in-vitro varied from 2.0 to 2.5 fold as compared to the control. In-vivo assays revealed 2 to 3 fold resistance in transgenic plants as compared to control plants. It was found that expression level of NPR1 is directly related to levels of resistance. ','NPR1, Transgenic, Fungus, Resistance, Brassica, Alternaria','Nineteen putative transgenic Brassica juncea lines having NPR1 gene under the control of 35S promoter were developed in the Plant Pathogen Interacting laboratory of National Institute for Plant Biotechnology. The present study was molecular analysis of putative transgenic lines for gene integration and expression and phenotypic analysis for disease resistance against Alternariabrassicaeinfection.DNA was isolated from control and transgenic plants and PCR was done with NPTII primers (for kanamycin resistance) and with 35S promoter forward primer and NPR1 reverse primers. All the nineteen lines were found to be positive. The study of gene expression was accomplished by isolating RNA from control and transgenic plants and doing RT-PCR with NPR1 primers. Eleven lines were found to over- express NPR1 gene by 5 fold while eight lines were found to over express NPR1gene by 2 fold.\r\nTransgenic plants were evaluated after inoculation of one month old plants through in-vitro (by detached leaf method) and in-vivo (on the whole plant) methods. Improved resistance was measured by delay in onset of symptoms and number and size of the lesions. Appearance of symptoms was delayed by 2 days in transgenic plants as compared to the control plants. Number and size of the lesions were reduced from 6 and 7.9 mm in control plants to 3 and 2.7 mm in transgenic plants respectively during in vitro studies. In in-vivo studies also number and size of the lesions were reduced from 5 and 6.2 mm in control to 2 and 2 mm in transgenic plants respectively. It was also seen that transgenic lines showing fewer lesions also displayed small size lesions. From the present study, it was concluded that integrating the NPR1 gene and over-expressing it, leads to improved resistance in B. juncea against A. brassicae.\r\n','-','Rajendra Prasad Meena, Raina Bajpai, Aparna, Rakesh Kumar and Anita Grover (2023). Over-expression of NPR1 gene in Brassica juncea Leads to Resistance Against Alternaria brassicae Infection. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 15(10): 1322-1329.'),(7905,'168','Efficacy of Different Insecticides on Natural Enemies in Maize Ecosystem','Ghoderao T.N., Suradkar A.L. and Patil B.V. ','Efficacy-of-Different-Insecticides-on-Natural-Enemies-in-Maize-Ecosystem-Ghoderao-TN-244.pdf','',1,'The investigation of Efficacy of different insecticides on natural enemies in maize ecosystem. The field experiment was conducted on the field of progressive farmer Shree. Baburao Mhaske Domegoan, Taluka Ambad, Dist. Jalna under the guidance of research guide, college of agriculture Badnapur during kharif 2021. The work was carried out in Randomized Block Design with three replications and seven treatments. The net plot size and gross plot size was 3.0 m × 2.2 m and 4.2 m × 3 m respectively with maize crop variety Fourtuner. The studies conclude that the natural enemies for all insecticides were found to be relatively safe except Indoxacarb 15.8 EC (T4) for LBB, Chlorfluazuron 5.4 EC for predatory spider and Emamectin benzoate 5SG for predatory bug. To convince the farmer for layout experiment in already planted crop and to keep watch on the activities of pest and it\'s response to different treatments were the challenges. The entire research programmed monitored and guided by research guide besides all the inputs were provided by college of agriculture Badnapur and losses occurred in the plant population during layout and losses in the yield caused by untreated control were beared by farmer.','Insecticides, Maize, natural enemies, lady bird beetle, predatory spider, predatory bug','In case of natural enemies, all insecticides were found safe to relatively safe except Indoxacarb 15.8 EC (T4) and no significant reduction in the population of lady bird beetle observed. The highest population’s reductions of predatory spiders were observed in treatment T6 Chlorfluzuron 5.4 EC and incase of predatory bugs in the treatment of Emamectin benzoate 5SG.','-','Ghoderao T.N., Suradkar A.L. and Patil B.V. (2023). Efficacy of Different Insecticides on Natural Enemies in Maize Ecosystem. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 15(10): 1330-1337.'),(7906,'168','Performance of Wheat (Triticum aestivum L.) under different Irrigation Scheduling and Sowing Dates','Mrinali Gajbhiye, Manish Bhan, K.K. Agrawal and Narendra Kumar ','Performance-of-Wheat-(Triticum-aestivum-L.)-under-different-Irrigation-Scheduling-and-Sowing-Dates-Mrinali-Gajbhiye-245.pdf','',1,'Wheat is a temperature sensitive crop, its delayed sowing exposes the crop to temperatures stress. Irrigation at critical stages is important for proper crop growth and development. Irrigation scheduling can reduce the adverse effect of high temperature to some extent thereby in achieving optimum yield. A field experiment was carried out at agricultural engineering farm, College of Agriculture Engineering, JNKVV, Jabalpur (M.P.). Twelve treatment combinations comprised of three sowing dates, viz., 03 December, 18 December and 02 January were assigned to the main-plots and four Irrigation water/Cumulative Pan Evaporation (IW/CPE) ratio based irrigation scheduling in sub-plot treatments viz., 1.0, 0.9, 0.8 and 0.7 was laid out in split- plot design with three replications. All the crop growth characters viz., plant height (91.60 cm) and number of tillers m-2 (415.25), yield attributes viz., number of effective tillers m-2 (402.6) and number of grains earhead-1 (45.21), and grain yield (4.64 t ha-1) and straw yield (6.79 t ha-1) were significantly superior in first sowing (03 December) over the others. Among the irrigation scheduling, 1.0 IW/CPE level recorded significantly superior crop growth characters viz., plant height (89.25 cm) and number of tillers m-2 (370.44), and yield attributes viz., number of effective tillers m-2 (358.2) and number of grains earhead-1 (44.77) which ultimately increased the grain (4.51 t ha-1) and straw yield (6.68 t ha-1). A strong linear positive relationship was observed between the grain yield with plant growth characters and yield attributes. A linear increase in grain yield was observed with the increase in growth characters and yield attributes. This suggests that 03 December sowing dates and 1.0 IW/CPE level of irrigation could be the best treatment to achieve optimum yield.','Date of sowing, IW/CPE, growth & yield characters, grain yield, straw yield','The study concludes that 03 December sowing produces higher growth and yield attributes thus resulting significantly higher yield of wheat. Among the irrigation schedules, 1.0 IW/CPE level produced higher growth and yield attributes. However, decrease in level of irrigation level has negative effect on growth and yield attributing characters. A strong positive relationship was observed between growth and yield attributes with grain yield. Hence, to achieve the optimum yield 03 December sowing date and 1.0 IW/CPE ratio proved to be the best treatment in wheat.','-','Mrinali Gajbhiye, Manish Bhan, K.K. Agrawal and Narendra Kumar (2023). Performance of Wheat (Triticum aestivum L.) under different Irrigation Scheduling and Sowing Dates. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 15(10): 1338-1342.'),(7907,'168','Exploring the Role of various Abiotic Factors on Occurrence and Population Density of FAW Spodoptera frugiperda (J. E. Smith) infesting rabi Maize','N.D. Zatale, D.B. Randive, P.B. Khedkar, D.P. Khatke, S.M. Magar and D.S. Thengade ','Exploring the Role of various Abiotic Factors on Occurrence and Population Density of FAW Spodoptera frugiperda (J. E. Smith) infesting rabi Maize-ND ZATALE-246.pdf','',1,'Maize (Zea mays L.) also called as the queen of cereals which belongs to the family Graminae is one of the important grain crop mainly utilized as feed, food and raw material for diverse industrial applications globally. Some reports states that 250 pests attack the maize but only few of pests area reason of concern and require control measures. Among them Spodoptera frugiperda is of great concern since it attacks maize in both vegetative as well as reproductive stage and can cause 100% yield loss. Keeping this in mind the field experiment was conducted to study the seasonal occurrence of FAW, Spodoptera frugiperda on maize during rabi season 2021 and the observations were taken at twice per week. The first incidence of S. frugiperda on rabi maize was recorded in 48th standard meteorological week (9.00 larvae per quadrat) with its peak population level (25.00 larvae per quadrat) in 51st standard meteorological week. The correlation studies revealed that the relative humidity before the noon and relative humidity in afternoon had positive influence on the larval population of S. frugiperda, while maximum temperature and wind speed had negative relationship with larval density of S. frugiperda during rabi season.','Fall armyworm, maize, temperature, population density, incidence and rainfall','The population of S. frugiperda was seen minimum during the First fortnight of March, 2022 and the maximum population was found at the second fortnight of December, 2021. Population of the S. frugiperda decreases with increase in the rainfall whereas the population increases with increase in relative humidity. ','-','N.D. Zatale, D.B. Randive, P.B. Khedkar, D.P. Khatke, S.M. Magar and D.S. Thengade (2023). Exploring the Role of various Abiotic factors on Occurrence and Population Density of FAW Spodoptera frugiperda (J. E. Smith) infesting rabi maize. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 15(10): 1343-1345.'),(7908,'163','Phytoremediation Potential of Few Natural Plants to Decontaminate Distillery Spent Wash Polluted Soil','Prashant Kumar, Beena Kumari, Amit Vaish, Yashwant Rai and N. P. Singh ','Phytoremediation-Potential-of-Few-Natural-Plants-to-Decontaminate-Distillery-Spent-Wash-Polluted-Soil-Prashant-Kumar-101.pdf','',1,'Due to complexation of Endocrine-Disrupting Chemicals (EDCs) and mixture of organic pollutants sugarcane dependent distillery discharge is a threat to environment for its safe disposal. The distillery sludge contains mixture of complex organic pollutants as well as high quantity of Pb, Mn, Zn, Fe, Cu and Ni which enhance the toxicity of discharge to the environment. Concentrations of nine metals i.e., Mg, Cd, Mn, Cr, Fe, Cu, Ni, Zn and Pb in soils and natural herbs species Cannabis sativa and Argemone maxicana collected from distillery spent wash discharge sites were investigated. This indicated high accumulation and translocation potential of these plants. The bioaccumulation and transfer of metals from soil to plants was evaluated in terms of Bioconcentration Factor (BCF). Further, the bioconcentration factor and translocation factor (TF) for various metals were found greater than one for these plants. This has provided robust evidence for a hyper accumulatory tendency for these plants as well as, indicating the heterogeneous adaptive properties of these plants grown in a highly polluted site. The polluted site became a challenge for the survival of human being and also the environment. Thus, our aim was to define that which plant species exhibit the accumulation potential and evaluate whether these species could be usefully employed for phytoremediation. Phytoremediation is an economic, efficient and unique eco-friendly modern technology. Our results indicated that both Cannabis sativa and Argemone maxicana are accumulator for the studied heavy metals.','Distillery discharge, Phytoremediation, Translocation Factor, Bioconcentration Factor, Bioaccumulation','Outcomes indicated that Cannabis sativa and Argemone maxicana are accumulator for the studied heavy metals. In soils as well as in both the plants the concentrations of heavy metals have the sequence of “Fe> Mn> Zn >Cu >Pb> Ni >Cr> Cd. Except Cd, roots of both the plants show high concentrations of all these metals, and thus are the best biomonitor’s for heavy metal pollution in the site under investigation.BCF (Bioconcentration Factor) values were highest for Cd and Zn, and lowest for Pb and Ni. These plant species could be considered hyper-acumulators and phytoextracted. However, they had relatively low BCFs for Fe compared with other metals. The high concentration of Fe in the roots of the studied plants and the low translocation in the above ground parts indicated that they are suitable for phytostabilizing this element in the area studied. The results of this study suggest that these plant species may be suitable options for phytoremediation. Biotechnologically and genetically engineered approaches can be employed to improve naturally occurring plants to decontaminate hazardous compounds. The authors have the opinion that use of natural plants for depolluted contaminated site must be investigated further in favor of environment.','-','Prashant Kumar, Beena Kumari, Amit Vaish, Yashwant Rai and N. P. Singh (2023). Phytoremediation Potential of Few Natural Plants to Decontaminate Distillery Spent Wash Polluted Soil. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 15(5a): 654-660.'),(7909,'169','Influence of Herbicides on Weed Dynamics and Persistence in Fenugreek (Trigonella foenum-graecum L.) in Arid Region','Bhagyashree Phogat, Narendra Kumar Pareek, Shish Pal Singh, Amar Singh Godara and Abhijeet Purohit ','Influence-of-Herbicides-on-Weed-Dynamics-and-Persistence-in-Fenugreek-(Trigonella-foenum-graecum-L.)-in-Arid-Region-Bhagyashree-Phogat-8.pdf','',1,'A field experiment was conducted at Instructional Farm, College of Agriculture, Swami Keshwanand Rajasthan Agricultural University, Bikaner (Rajasthan) during Rabi 2021-22 and 2022-23. The research was conducted to find out effect on weed control parameters using treatments like chemical herbicides with alone/ combinations. The crop was infested by weeds right from sowing and many weed flushes were observed during the study. The experiment consisted of total fourteen treatments combinations (H1 - Weedy check, H2 - Weed free, H3–Pendimethalin, H4– Oxyfluorfen, H5– Imazethapyr, H6 - Diclosulam @20g/ha PE, H7 - Diclosulam @25g/ha PE, H8 - Flumioxazin @75 g/ha, H9–Flumioxazin @100 g/ha, H10 - Pendimethalin + Imazethapyr, H11 - Pendimethalin + Oxyfluorfen, H12 - Imazethapyr + Imazamox (RM), H13 - Sodium Acifluorfen + Clodinafop-Propargyl 8% (RM), H14–Fomesafen 11.1% + Fluazifop–p-butyl 11.1 % (RM)). These treatments were evaluated in Completely Randomized Block Design with three replications. In weedy check plots, fenugreek was mainly infested with mixed flora of broad-leaved weeds chiefly consisted of Rumex dentatus, Chenopodium murale L., Melilotus indica L. and Chenopodium album. The results indicate that at each stage of observation pre emergence application of pendimethalin + imazethapyr (RM) was found significantly superior in reducing total weed density, dry matter and their bio mass compared to weedy check and remains statistically at par with application of Pendimethalin + Oxyfluorfen, Imazethapyr + Imazamox and Imazethapyr.','Completely Randomized Block Design, chemical herbicides, weed control parameters','Based on the research finding, it seems quite logical to conclude efficient weed control in fenugreek can be achieved either by pre-emergence application of pendimethalin + imazethapyr (RM) under paucity of farm labourers.','-','Bhagyashree Phogat, Narendra Kumar Pareek, Shish Pal Singh, Amar Singh Godara and Abhijeet Purohit (2023). Influence of Herbicides on Weed Dynamics and Persistence in Fenugreek (Trigonellafoenum-graecum L.) in Arid Region. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 15(11): 39-47.'),(7910,'168','An Investigation into Consumer Preferences Regarding Millet and Millet-Based Value-Added Products','Sangappa, Abbuseat, Kailashnath, D. Rafi E. Charishma, K. Ramakiran and Ravi, S.C. ','An-Investigation-into-Consumer-Preferences-Regarding-Millet-and-Millet-Based-Value-Added-Products-Sangappa-247.pdf','',1,'To delve into consumer preferences regarding millets and millet-based products, a survey was undertaken in Hyderabad, involving 200 participants. The study explores consumer preferences and consumption patterns of millets, revealing that 50 percent of respondents prioritize health benefits as the main reason for consuming millets. Health advantages include the control of blood pressure, diabetes reduction, improved digestion, skin health, and vision. Gluten-free nature ranks as the second major reason, followed by rich fiber and nutrient content, and weight control. Most respondents consume millets during breakfast and dinner (78%), citing the availability of diverse millet breakfast items. High price and limited knowledge regarding millet culinary preparation were the major factors hindering the millet consumption. To promote millet consumption, the study suggests increasing awareness, addressing pricing concerns, emphasizing health benefits, and diversifying millet-based products. Additionally, incorporating millets into public distribution systems and ensuring availability in local markets can enhance awareness and accessibility.','Millets, Nutrition, Consumer Preference, Consumption, Health Benefits','All respondents were aware of millets and millet-based value-added products. Most responders got information on millets from ICAR-IIMR, Hyderabad roadshows, walkathons, and awareness activities, as well as social media and TV. The findings reveal that the majority of respondents prioritize health benefits as the primary reasons for consuming millets. Additionally, gluten-free property and high fiber content influenced the consumption of millets. The factors influencing consumer preference for millets and millet products include their perceived high nutritional value, appealing taste, and overall quality. However, the study identifies high prices and limited knowledge regarding millet culinary preparation as significant constraints faced by consumers. To promote millet consumption, the prime thing to focus is to increase awareness, address price concerns, to emphasize health benefits and nutritional content of millets. Providing accessible and user-friendly recipes, cooking demonstrations, and highlighting the nutritional benefits of millets can contribute to increased knowledge and utilization in the kitchen. Additionally, considering millets in public distribution systems will create more awareness on millets among the rural and urban areas. Diversifying and making millet-based products more available may enhance consumption, especially among different age groups and genders. Including millets in public distribution channels will also raise rural and urban awareness. Providing millets in local markets and grocery stores and using culinary innovation tactics can help study area respondents overcome their constraints.','-','Sangappa, Abbuseat, Kailashnath, D. Rafi E. Charishma, K. Ramakiran and Ravi, S.C. (2023). An Investigation into Consumer Preferences Regarding Millet and Millet-Based Value-Added Products. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 15(10): 1346-1350.'),(7911,'163','A Study on Heterosis in Interspecific Cotton Hybrids (Gossypium hirsutum L.× Gossypium barbadense L.) for Sucking Pest Resistance','Adsare A.D. and Atram S.G.','A-Study-on-Heterosis-in-Interspecific-Cotton-Hybrids-(Gossypium-hirsutum-L.×-Gossypium-barbadense-L.)-for-Sucking-Pest-Resistance-Adsare-AD-102.pdf','',1,'Gossypium hirsutum L. × Gossypium barbadense L. interspecific hybrids were assessed to determine the degree of heterosis for sucking pest resistance. Forty F1 hybrids were made by crossing ten lines of G. hirsutum and four testers of G. barbadense in a line-by-tester fashion. Significant variations were found in all variables examined for sucking insect resistance throughout the crosses, according to analysis of variance. Heterosis was examined using two standard checks, MRC 7918 and Varlaxmi, as well as the midparent and better parent. The best heterotic combinations for jassid resistance and seed cotton yield were crosses RAH -1065 × Sujata, GBHV-170 × SB289E, AKH081 × Suvin, GBHV-170 × Reba-B-50, and DHY286 × Suvin. In contrast, tolerance to white flies was demonstrated by SCS-793 × SB-425 YF, AKH8828 × Suvin, and NH615 × SB289E. Significant heterosis in yield and resistance to sucking pests were demonstrated by these hybrids. By evaluating the superiority in heterosis in a large-scale study, these genotypes may be verified.','Heterosis, Sucking pest, Yield, Jassids, Cotton','Therefore, the current study concludes that, in addition to percentage of heterosis, emphasis must be given to the selection of prospective crosses for continued use in breeding programs based on the performance of parents and hybrids for various traits. To verify the superiority for heterosis, a large-scale trial will evaluate for confirmation of superior crosses for the several traits found in the current experiment. ','-','Adsare A.D. and Atram S.G. (2023). A Study on Heterosis in Interspecific Cotton Hybrids (Gossypium hirsutum L. × Gossypium barbadense L.) for Sucking Pest Resistance. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 15(5a): 661-664.'),(7912,'167','A Review on Impact of Mobile Apps in Agriculture','Patra S.','A-Review-on-Impact-of-Mobile-Apps-in-Agriculture-Sabyasachi-Patra-16.pdf','',1,'Currently, e-learning is being used more frequently to enhance information and communication processes, such as in e-agriculture, in order to improve agricultural and rural development. The steps of conception, design, development, analysis, and implementation are used to generate new ideas. The purpose of this mini review was to investigate the lack of knowledge and the laborious nature of farming practises to make it possible for farmers to exchange thoughts, findings, tips, and resources linked to e-agriculture and to make sure that the knowledge produced is widely and successfully utilised. One of the main causes of the farmers\' difficulties has been the infrequency with which they have been provided with timely and sufficient information on many different kinds of affecting factors, including soil conditions, rainfall, and weather. In a similar vein, most farmers lack access to a communications network that offers real-time updates on market trends and other issues. This article examines how mobile applications might hasten and simplify the development of agriculture. With a variety of mobile applications, many farmers may quickly pick up new techniques for boosting crop yields and enhancing other agricultural output. It has some limitations, particularly in remote areas with slow internet connections, and a daily updated mobile version is released. However, it is clear that technology provides much better advantages in most cases. We have elaborated on various agricultural mobile applications that can potentially be used in farming and related activities, as indicated by their source and usage. In this connection, we can say that farmers can easily access information for the smooth running of agricultural works as well as for the improvement of agricultural, horticultural, and allied sector productivity. By the help of mobile apps, farmers will also not depend on other agencies those are selling their agricultural input with higher rate and low quality. So, mobile apps are the major parts of agriculture in developing countries. ','E-Agriculture, Mobile apps, Impact of Mobile apps','The majority of the population in our nation works in agriculture. It is crucial that agriculture be connected to modern technologies in order to make it efficient, easy, and respectable. E-agriculture or smartphone applications are changing agriculture today. This technology makes it possible to learn new approaches quickly and directly for boosting crop yields and increasing productivity in agriculture. In the case of the information collection through mobile apps, viz., the timely availability of quality input in agriculture, we can say that farmers will not depend on various agencies having a higher rate for selling low-quality seed, fertilisers, pesticides, agricultural implements, etc. The techniques for increasing application-based information demand the removal of barriers such as better modest handsets, compatible smart phones, multilingual platforms, subsidised internet packs, regular trainings, and farmer awareness. Every system has its own setbacks. Nonetheless, it is evident that technology generally offers considerably superior benefits. Yet by providing farmers with access to better platforms and training them on how to overcome them, we can close the gap between these drawbacks. ','-','-'),(7913,'169','A Multifaceted Analysis of IPM Adoption among Vegetable Growers in Central India\'s Jabalpur Region','Arpit Somtiya, Seema Naberia, Siddharth Namdeo, Ashish Kumar Nagar and Vedant Gautam ','A-Multifaceted-Analysis-of-IPM-Adoption-Among-Vegetable-Growers-in-Central-Indias-Jabalpur-Region-Seema-Naberia-9.pdf','',1,'The adoption of Integrated Pest Management (IPM) among vegetable growers in the Shahpura block of the Jabalpur district, central India, is explored in depth in this study. The complex factors influencing or impeding IPM integration are highlighted under the present study. Notably, education emerges as a powerful catalyst, with educated growers significantly more likely to adopt IPM practices. Experience plays a pivotal role, demonstrating a positive correlation with IPM adoption. Income levels, training received and occupational diversity have an impact on the same. The psychological elements that display strong correlations with IPM adoption include economic motivation, scientific orientation, risk orientation, social engagement, knowledge levels, and attitude. These correlations offer light on the complex forces that underlie sustainable agriculture which adds regional knowledge about the dynamics of IPM adoption and provides policy makers, stakeholders, and agricultural extension agencies with useful advice. Moreover, the IPM programmes have not been widely adopted in developing countries due to lack of proper knowledge and training farmers in efficient IPM practices, the need for more of human labour, and the complexity of IPM practices, all of which impede on the effective implementation of IPM programmes. Therefore, the present study emphasised on the promotion of sustainable agriculture practises in the Shahpura block and advance IPM adoption towards more environmentally conscious and sustainable future through empirical evidence and useful recommendations.','Adoption of IPM, Vegetable farmers, Multicollinearity, Regression Analysis, Likert scale','The results highlight the complex nature of decision-making in agriculture, which is influenced by elements like training, education, experience, income, vocation, extension services, media exposure, and psychological characteristics. By addressing Multicollinearity issues and broadening the focus of future research to incorporate more variables, it will be possible to develop targeted interventions and methods to advance sustainable farming practices in the area. This study adds understanding of IPM adoption and provides policymakers, extension agencies, and agricultural stakeholders with useful takeaways for promoting farming methods that are both economically and environmentally sound.','-','Arpit Somtiya, Seema Naberia, Siddharth Namdeo, Ashish Kumar Nagar and Vedant Gautam (2023). A Multifaceted Analysis of IPM Adoption Among Vegetable Growers in Central India\'s Jabalpur Region. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 15(11): 48-54.'),(7914,'169','Impact of Different Dates of Sowing on the Growth and Yield of Improved Wheat (Triticum spp.) Varieties in Northern Central India','Neelendra Singh Verma, Sourav Gupta, Dinesh Kumar Kuldeep, Jyoti Kushawah and Sachin Aske ','Impact-of-Different-Dates-of-Sowing-on-the-Growth-and-Yield-of-Improved-Wheat-(Triticum-spp.)-Varieties-in-Northern-Central-India-Neelendra-Singh-Verma-10.pdf','',1,'The trials were performed out at the Research Farm, College of Agriculture, RVSKVV, Gwalior (M.P.) in 2013-14 and 2014-15. The treatments comprised two sowing dates (timely and late) and five cultivars (HD 4730, HI 8737, MPO 1215, HD 4728, and HI 8498) replicated three times under a spilt-plot design. The primary plot treatments were the dates of sowing, while the sub-plot treatments were the varieties. All packages of practises were implemented in accordance with wheat crop recommendations. Late seeding reduced growth metrics (plant height (cm), number of leaves/25 cm row length, and number of days to maturity) and yield contributing features (length of spike (cm), grain weight of spike (g), number of spikes/m2, and test weight (g). Timely seeded crops outperformed late sown crops in terms of biological yield and HI.HD 4728 had the highest values of growth metrics and yield contributing features, whereas variety HI 8498 had the lowest values. Variety HD 4728 surpassed the rest of the varieties in terms of biological yield and HI. Under timely seeded conditions, the interaction of variety HD 4728 resulted in considerably higher values of biological yield per hectare than the other interactions. Variety HD 4728, which was seeded on time, had the greatest net monetary return and B:C ratio (94767/ha and 4.26, respectively), followed by HI 8737, which was also sown on time.','Date of sowing, Growth characters, Variety, Yield attributes, Yield','Significantly inferior values of growth parameters, yield attributing characters and biological yield were obtained when the crop sown late. Whereas, superior values of same aforementioned characters were obtained when the crop sown on time, it reflects the effect of conducive environmental conditions on the agronomic performance of wheat. Therefore, timely sowing must be done in order to avoid the significant yield loss, along with, variety HD 4728, followed by HI 8737 can be adopted for higher yield and higher net returns. ','-','Neelendra Singh Verma, Sourav Gupta, Dinesh Kumar Kuldeep, Jyoti Kushawah and Sachin Aske (2023). Impact of Different Dates of Sowing on the Growth and Yield of Improved Wheat (Triticum spp.) Varieties in Northern Central India. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 15(11): 55-58.'),(7915,'168','Studies on Efficacy and Economics of Herbicide Mixture in Wet Direct -Seeded Rice (Oryza sativa L.)','Mandala Kalyanbabu, Rajesh Shriram Kalasare, Ashirbachan Mahapatra and Dinkar J. Gaikwad ','Studies-on-Efficacy-and-Economics-of-Herbicide-Mixture-in-Wet-Direct--Seeded-Rice-(Oryza-sativa-L.)-Dr-Rajesh-S.-Kalasare-248.pdf','',1,'Rice is one of the most important cereal crops grown all over in India. But day by day the growing population has become a challenge which is decreasing the agricultural land and water supplies. Since direct sowing is a convenient process as it requires less water during cropping. But in direct seeded rice, weeds are a serious issue since they thrive all season long and reduce output by roughly 35% when compared to weed-free conditions. Weed management is always been a crucial task for the farmers. But proper weed management helps in better weed control as well as good absorption and translocation of nutrients by plants with less competition. Herbicide use is currently the most popular method for weed infestation control among all available methods since it is seen as the most dependable, simple, time and money-saving solution. But most of the herbicides used in wet seeded rice are selective and weed specific, and thus control only a small portion of the diverse weed flora. Several new pre-mix herbicide products having broad spectrum activity are now available in the markets which could exclude the labour of tank mixing as well as the possibility of non-compatibility. The current study was conducted in kharif season in rice during 2022 at Post Graduate Research Farm, M.S. Swaminathan School of Agriculture. The experiment was laid out in randomized block design with 8 treatments and 3 replications. The treatments consisted of Triafamone + Ethoxysulfuran (67.5 g a.i. ha-1) at 12-14 DAS (T1), Fenoxaprop-p-ethyle + Ethoxysulfuran (50+15 g a.i. ha-1) at 17-18 DAS (T2), Metsulfuran-methyl + chlorimuron-ethyl Bispyribac-sodium (4+25) g a.i. ha-1 (T3), Bispyribac-Na + Ethoxysulfuran (25+15g a.i.ha-1) at 10-12 DAS (T4), Preticlachlor + Bensulfuran-methyle (660g a.i.ha-1) at 4-5 DAS (T5), Bispyribac-Na (30g a.i. ha-1) at 8-10 DAS (T6), weed free (HW at 20, 40 and 60 DAS) (T7) and Weedy check (T8). The results revealed that the maximum growth, yield and weed parameter was significantly higher with the application of pre – emergent mixed herbicide Triafamone + Ethoxysulfuran (67.5 g a.i.ha-1) at 12 -14 DAS to achieve the higher growth and to decrease the weed density through which it helped in high productivity of rice. Therefore, the application of this treatment might be beneficial to the farmers under southern Odisha condition. ','Herbicide mixture, Weed free, Weedy check, Yield','On the basis of experimental findings, it can be concluded that application of Triafamone + Ethoxysulfuran (67.5 g a.i. ha-1) at 12-14 DAS and following with manual weeding at recommended timings helps in achieving maximum growth in plant. Besides, it increases the weed control efficiency through which it has achieved the higher yield.','-','Mandala Kalyanbabu, Rajesh Shriram Kalasare, Ashirbachan Mahapatra and Dinkar J. Gaikwad (2023). Studies on Efficacy and Economics of Herbicide Mixture in Wet Direct -Seeded Rice (Oryza sativa L.). Biological Forum – An International Journal, 15(10): 1351-1354.'),(7916,'105','Diversification of Crops in Rice-wheat Cropping System for Higher Productivity and Profitability of Farmers in Eastern Uttar Pradesh','Neeraj Kumar, Raj Bahadur, Singh A.K., Robin Kumar, Singh S.P., Pandey A.K., Baheliya A.K. and Dharmendra Kumar','Diversification of Crops in Rice-wheat Cropping System for Higher Productivity and Profitability of Farmers in Eastern Uttar Pradesh-Neeraj Kumar-148.pdf','',1,'The continuous cultivation of rice has resulted in a decline in soil quality, posing a serious threat to agricultural sustainability. In response, efforts are being made to promote crop diversification by introducing a variety of crop types to restore soil health. A field experiment spanning from 2017 to 2019 at the Agronomy Research Farm in Ayodhya evaluated ten cropping systems for their productivity, sustainability, soil fertility and economic viability. The tested crop sequences included rice-wheat-fallow, rice-wheat-greengram, rice-frenchbean-greengram, rice-gram-cowpea (veg), rice-mustard-greengram, rice-linseed-black gram, rice-berseem-sudanchari, rice- oat- maize+cowpea, rice-cauliflower-okra, and rice-potato-cowpea (veg). Among these, the rice-cauliflower-okra cropping system showed the highest rice equivalent yield 18.63 t/ha/annum, followed by rice-potato-cowpea (veg) and rice-french bean-greengram. The rice-cauliflower-okra system also recorded the highest net return of Rs. 160443 per year. The study revealed significant effects of different cropping sequences on soil parameters such as available nitrogen, phosphorus, potassium, and organic carbon content.','Rice based cropping system, Rice Equivalent Yield, Diversification, System Productivity and Profitability','Introducing crop diversification, including legumes, fodder, vegetables, and oilseeds, into the conventional rice-wheat cropping system enhances productivity, profitability, rice equivalent yield (REY), land use efficiency, and energy. These improvements were statistically comparable to the rice-french bean-green gram system, with potato and fodder crops following closely. Significant enhancements in available nitrogen (N), phosphorus (P), and potassium (K) in the soil were observed in the rice-french bean-green gram and rice-wheat-green gram cropping systems. Notably, post-harvest soil organic carbon content was consistently highest when legumes were incorporated. While rice-potato-cowpea demonstrated the highest productivity and rice-french bean-green gram the highest profitability, the latter proved to be the most sustainable and profitable for farmers. The findings suggest that adopting diversified cropping practices, particularly incorporating legumes, offers a pathway for farmers in the Eastern Gangetic Plains of India to improve livelihoods, food security, and overall sustainability in agriculture.','-','Neeraj Kumar, Raj Bahadur, Singh A.K., Robin Kumar, Singh S.P., Pandey A.K., Baheliya A.K. and Dharmendra Kumar (2021). Diversification of Crops in Rice-wheat Cropping System for Higher Productivity and Profitability of Farmers in Eastern Uttar Pradesh. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 13(3a): 840-845.'),(7917,'169','Study on Parasitisation of Different Egg Parasitoids on Egg Mass of Fall Armyworm, Spodoptera frugiperda (J.E. Smith) under Laboratory Condition','B. Shailaja, U. Sai Prasoona, E. Sreelatha and S. Abhilash ','Study-on-Parasitisation-of-Different-egg-Parasitoids-on-Egg-Mass-of-Fall-Armyworm,-Spodoptera-frugiperda-(J.E.-Smith)-under-Laboratory-Condition-E-Sreelatha-11.pdf','',1,'Fall armyworm is a major polyphagous insect pest, causing a significant damage on different agricultural crops. Developing an alternative non-chemical tool to suppress the pest infestation is essentially needed. Therefore, a study was conducted during the year 2021-2022 to evaluate the parasitisation of different egg parasitoids on egg mass of fall armyworm, at Centre for Biocontrol Laboratory, NIPHM, Hyderabad. During this study the effect of different egg parasitoids namely Telenomus remus (Nixon), Trichogramma chilonis (Ishii), Trichogramma pretiosum (Riley) and Trichogramma embryophagum (Hartig) were tested on FAW egg mass. The experiment revealed that the parasitisation rate was significantly higher in T. remus (88.05%) followed by T. chilonis (53.69%), T. pretiosum (49.76%) and T. embryophagum (28.94%). It was noticed that T. remus was potential to parasitize more than one-layer of eggs in FAW egg mass uniformly. Whereas, Trichogramma sp. are able to parasitize eggs in the outer most layer of egg mass.','Fall armyworm, Parasitoids, T. remus and Trichogramma sp','Biological control of invasive fall armyworm is important in Integrated Pest Management. It was noticed that T. remus was the potent biocontrol agent to be used as biocontrol agent for S. frugiperda followed by T. chilonis, T. pretiosum and T. embryophagum. T. remus was potential to parasitize more than one-layer of eggs in FAW egg mass uniformly. Whereas, Trichogramma sp. are able to parasitize eggs in the outer most layer of egg mass. Our results are encouraging, the T. remus and Trichogramma spp. are viable biocontrol agents for S. frugiperda. Still, other aspects need to be further studied, such as other factors that influence the success of parasitoids.','-','B. Shailaja, U. Sai Prasoona, E. Sreelatha and S. Abhilash (2023). Study on Parasitisation of Different Egg Parasitoids on Egg Mass of Fall Armyworm, Spodoptera frugiperda (J.E. Smith) under Laboratory Condition. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 15(11): 59-61.'),(7918,'168','Standardization of Formulation for Preparation of Vegetable Enriched Pasta','Dev Raj, Maru Shveta M., J.M. Mayani and Gohil Mehul M. ','Standardization-of-Formulation-for-Preparation-of-Vegetable-Enriched-Pasta-Gohil-Mehul-M-249.pdf','',1,'Now a days, pasta is one of the most important and favourite food item among childers. However, due to presence/addition of some of the vegetable in pasta during the preparation causing on acceptability due to taste of vegetable in pasta. Moreover the vegetable are very rich source of importance minerals and vitamins. So to increase the acceptability of vegetable in pasta, the present investigation entitled “standardization of formulations for preparation of vegetable enriched pasta” was aimed to evaluate the nutritive quality of vegetable enriched pasta during storage. For preparation of vegetable enriched pasta, an experiment was laid out with seventeen treatment formulations of semolina flour (65, 63.5, 62.5 and 61.5 %), wheat flour (35, 34, 32.5 and 31%), capsicum powder (0, 2.5, 5 and 7.5 %), carrot juice (20, 15, 10 and 5%) and tomato juice (5, 10, 15 and 20%) along with standard formulation (100% semolina flour and 25% water) using completely randomized design. The prepared vegetable enriched pasta was stored for a period of 6 month to analyse the quality attributes at two month intervals. The results of the investigation revealed that best quality vegetable enriched pasta with higher sensory acceptability can be prepared using 63.5% semolina, 34% wheat flour, 2.5% capsicum powder, 5% carrot juice and 20% tomato juice. This formulation of pasta also resulted higher storage stability of nutritional parameters like vitamin C, ash content, starch content, lycopene content, carotene content during six months storage. Prepared pasta can be stored successfully for 6 months in polypropylene bag (480 gauge) at room temperature. The developed pasta technology can be commercially explored by the food processors for production quality of vegetable enriched pasta and helpful for profitable utilization of vegetables for harnessing of their nutraceuticals and aesthetic properties.','Carrot, Capsicum, Tomato, Carotene, Lycopene','Based on the finding, best quality vegetable enriched pasta can be prepared using 63.5% semolina, 34% wheat flour, 2.5% capsicum powder, 5% carrot juice and 20% tomato juice. This formulation of pasta also resulted higher storage stability of nutritional parameters like vitamin C, ash content, starch content, lycopene content, carotene content during six months storage. Prepared pasta can be stored successfully for 6 months in polypropylene bag (480 gauge) at room temperature. Thus, the developed pasta technology can be commercially explored by the food processors for production quality of vegetable enriched pasta and helpful for profitable utilization of vegetables for harnessing of their nutraceuticals and aesthetic properties.','-','Dev Raj, Maru Shveta M., J.M. Mayani and Gohil Mehul M. (2023). Standardization of Formulation for Preparation of Vegetable Enriched Pasta. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 15(10): 1355-1365.'),(7919,'136','Effect of foliar application of Salicylic Acid and KNO3 on growth and yield of Tomato (Solanum lycopersicum L.) under water stress condition','Deeptimayee Sahoo, Dipika Sahoo, Gouri Shankar Sahu, Pradyumna Tripathy, Swarnalata Das and Rajkumari Bhol','Effect of foliar application of Salicylic Acid and KNO3 on growth and yield of Tomato (Solanum lycopersicum L.) under water stress condition-Deeptimayee Sahoo-293.pdf','',1,'Water deficit is one of the most limiting factor for plant survival since it regulates growth and development and limits plant productivity. The tolerance of plants to water stress can be increased through breeding and use of plant growth regulators. The field experiment was conducted during the rabi season of the year 2019-20 at AICRP on Vegetable crops, College of Agriculture, Odisha University of Agriculture and Technology, Bhubaneswar, to evaluate foliar spray with Salicylic Acid & KNO3 on growth and yield of Tomato (Solanum lycopersicum L.) under water stress condition. The experiment was laid down in randomize block design with three replications. The experiment comprised of ten treatments of different concentrations of Salicylic Acid (10 ppm, 25 ppm, 50 ppm, 75 ppm, 100 ppm) and KNO3 (1%, 2.5%, 5%) along with one stress check treatment (Drought stress by withholding irrigation) and stress free check treatment (Irrigated up to field capacity). The yield 49.67 tonnes/ha and yield components such as No. of flower clusters/ plant, No. of fruits/ plant, Fruit yield/ha (t) were also higher from plants that were subjected to moisture stress at vegetative stage and the control. Hence, Application of Salicylic Acid 100 ppm and 5% KNO3 indicated the efficacy of both in ameliorating the deteriorative effects of drought in tomato by improving the growth attributes by enhanced antioxidant enzyme activities and increased the stress tolerance of seedlings.','Salicylic Acid, KNO3, Growth attributes, antioxidant enzyme, moisture stress','Salicylic Acid is known as natural endogenous signaling molecule that plays a key role in governing and mediating the responses of plants in diverse environmental stresses such as drought (Hayat et al., 2010). On the basis of the result obtained in the present investigation it is concluded that foliar application of SA (100 ppm) at pre flowering and fruiting stage proved to be best among other treatments and significantly increased the growth and yield of Tomato under deficit moisture content. So, Salicylic Acid can be considered as an important source that can improve various growth and yield parameters under water stress conditions resulting in higher yield and ultimately the higher return.','-','Deeptimayee Sahoo, Dipika Sahoo, Gouri Shankar Sahu, Pradyumna Tripathy, Swarnalata Das and Rajkumari Bhol (2022). Effect of foliar application of Salicylic Acid and KNO3 on growth and yield of Tomato (Solanum lycopersicum L.) under water stress condition. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 14(3): 1715-1722.'),(7920,'168','Effect of various Weed Control Measures on Growth and Yield of Potato (Solanum tuberosum L.) in Grid Region','Dheerendra Singh, Devendra, Jaideep Singh Bhadauriya, Avinash Sharma, Nishita Kushwah and Janmejay Sharma','Effect-of-various-Weed-Control-Measures-on-Growth-and-Yield-of-Potato-(Solanum-tuberosum-L.)-in-Grid-Region-Dheerendra-Singh-250.pdf','',1,'The field experiment was conducted to study the effect of various weed control measures on growth and yield of potato in grid region at the Directorate of Weed Science Research (DWSR) Centre, College of Agriculture, (RVSKVV) Gwalior (M.P.) during the rabi season of 2016-2017. Crop growth parameters, viz., plant population (7.94), plant height (26.73, 41.27 and 42.40 cm), number of compound leaves (26.27, 48.27 and 51.96) and number of stem (4.53, 5.25 and 6.18), fresh (60.40, 222.40 and 306.61g) and dry weight of plant (8.14, 40.88 and 65.28 g), fresh weight of haulm /plant (53.73, 97.07 and 108.61 g) and Dry weight of haulm /plant (6.88, 15.34 and 21.72 g) were recorded at 30, 60 and harvest stage respectively. Yield attributes and yield parameters, viz., Number of tubers plant-1 (4.47, 5.58 and 5.91 g), Fresh (6.67, 125.33 and 198 g) and dry weight (1.27, 25.54 and 43.56 g) and tuber yield ha-1 (145.83 q) and Biological yield (231.51 q/ha), haulm yield (85.68 q/ha) and harvest index (63.40 %) were significantly influenced at 60 DAP and maturity respectively by the different weed control treatments. Resulting in production of higher crop growth parameters, yield attributes and yield than other organic weed control treatments T6 and was found highly effective for attaining higher weed suppression and yield simultaneously and superior over rest of the organic weed control treatments. ','Weed flora, control methods, organic control and potato ','On the basis of above findings, it may be concluded that weed reduced growth, yield attributes and ultimately tuber yield. In organic farming situation weed reduced tuber yield about 50-60 %. Based on the result of this experiment two hand weeding at 20 and 40 DAP find out most effective weed management practice for potato under organic farming in Gwalior region.\r\n— The cost of chemical weed control is actually less than that of manual weeding, hoeing and mulching. This has been a major incentive to many farmers for switching over to herbicides but under organic farming chemical use restricted. \r\n— Hence, it may be concluded that significantly highest plant population (7.94), plant height (26.73, 41.27 and 42.40 cm), number of compound leaves (26.27, 48.27 and 51.96) and number of stem (4.53, 5.25 and 6.18), fresh (60.40, 222.40 and 306.61g) and dry weight of plant (8.14, 40.88 and 65.28 g), fresh weight of haulm /plant (53.73, 97.07 and 108.61 g) and Dry weight of haulm /plant (6.88, 15.34 and 21.72 g) were recorded at 30, 60 and harvest stage respectively. \r\n— Yield attributes and yield parameters, viz., Number of tubers plant-1 (4.47, 5.58 and 5.91 g), Fresh (6.67, 125.33 and 198 g) and dry weight (1.27, 25.54 and 43.56 g) and tuber yield ha-1 (145.83 q) and Biological yield (231.51 q/ha), haulm yield (85.68 q/ha) and harvest index (63.40 %)\r\n— Tuber yield (145.83 q/ha) and Net return (97446.67 Rs./ha) were obtained from two hand weeding at 20 and 40 DAP, followed by HW at 20 DAP + hoeing at 40 DAP (8.39 q/ha, 91474.44 Rs./ha) and Two hand hoeing at 20 and 40 DAP (135.42q/ha, 90363.33 Rs./ha).\r\n','-','Dheerendra Singh, Devendra, Jaideep Singh Bhadauriya, Avinash Sharma, Nishita Kushwah and Janmejay Sharma (2023). Effect of various Weed Control Measures on Growth and Yield of Potato (Solanum tuberosum L.) in Grid Region. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 15(10): 1366-1370.'),(7921,'168','Effect of Growing Media on Growth, Yield and Quality of Strawberry (Fragaria x ananassa): A Review','Akshay Mehta, Alkesh Yadav, Aman Kumar and Kanika ','Effect-of-Growing-Media-on-Growth,-Yield-and-Quality-of-Strawberry-(Fragaria-x-ananassa)-A-Review-Akshay-Mehta-251.pdf','',1,'Strawberry is one of the most delicious, refreshing and visually appearing red fruit belonging to the family Rosaceae. It is a fruit with low calories and carbohydrates that is high in fibre, vitamin C and vitamin A. However, growth, yield and quality production of strawberry is declining due to growing urbanisation, industrialization etc. Growing media are composed of combinations of elements that offer water, air, nutrients, and structural support to plants. These media serve as a foundation for plants, and nutrients are supplied through the addition of fertilizers. The desirable traits of growing media for cultivation include greater porosity and lighter weight compared to soil, a distinctive capacity to retain water and nutrients under low tensions, and improved aeration for the root system. There are numerous ways to overcome the declining growth, yield and quality of strawberry but the best method is use of growing media. The present review focuses on the Effect of Growing Media on Growth, Yield and Quality of Strawberry (Fragaria × ananassa).','Flavourful, urbanisation, fertilizers, strawberry, growing media','Our review has demonstrated that growing media is an important factor limiting strawberry fruit crop production. Several growing media like cocopeat, perlite, vermiculite etc. were beneficial for increasing the growth, yield, quality and production of disease free strawberry. Moreover, Cocopeat, peat moss, and other growing media have more accessible minerals and beneficial microbial biomass, which leads to the production of humic compounds and growing media significantly augment the farmer’s income by increasing the growth, yield and quality of strawberry.','-','Akshay Mehta, Alkesh Yadav, Aman Kumar and Kanika (2023). Effect of Growing Media on Growth, Yield and Quality of Strawberry (Fragaria x ananassa): A Review. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 15(10): 1371-1374.'),(7922,'168','Influence of Bio-Stimulants on Flowering, Yield and Disease Incidence in Chrysanthemum (Dendranthema grandiflora T.) cv. Local Yellow','Sivalakshmi B., Madhavan S., Sirisha T., Sai Mohan A., Raju D.V.S., Dorajee Rao A.V.D. and Ravindra Kumar K. ','Influence-of-Bio-Stimulants-on-Flowering,-Yield-and-Disease-Incidence-in-Chrysanthemum-(Dendranthema-grandiflora-T.)-cv.-Local-Yellow-Sivalakshmi-B-252.pdf','',1,'The present experiment was conducted to study the influence of bio-stimulants on flowering, yield and disease incidence in chrysanthemum cv. Local yellow. Different bio-stimulant formulations such as Trichoderma viride (9, 18 and 36 g per plant), Pseudomonas fluorescens (9, 18 and 36 g per plant) and Arbuscular Mycorrhizal Fungi (9, 18 and 36 g per plant) were applied to soil. Significant variations in flowering and wilt disease incidence were noticed with application of bio-stimulants. The plants treated with T. viride (18 g per plant) recorded earlier days to flower bud formation (62.66 days) and flowering (82.20 days), maximum duration of flowering (54.55 days), highest catalase activity (0.85 units/mg protein/min), peroxidase activity (0.99 units/mg protein/min) and lowest disease incidence (18.00 %) and percent disease index (16.66 %). Arbuscular Mycorrhizal Fungi (18 g per plant) recorded maximum shelf life (5.10 days), capitulum diameter (6.21 cm), flower yield per plot (14.14 kg) and number of pickings (10.12). \r\nBio-stimulants in horticulture has been the focus of scientific interest for quite some time now. As the need for sustainable, eco-friendly and innovative horticulture solutions grows, more and more studies are being done on the efficacy of bio-stimulants. \r\n','Trichoderma viride, Pseudomonas fluorescens, Arbuscular Mycorrhizal Fungi, Flowering and Fusarium wilt','Application of Trichoderma viride @ 18 g per plant was found to be best for early flowering, duration of flowering, induction of catalase and peroxidase activity and reduce wilt incidence. Arbuscular Mycorrhizal Fungi @ 18 g per plant was the best treatment with respect to shelf life of flowers, capitulum diameter, higher number of flower pickings and highest flower yield per plot.','-','Sivalakshmi B., Madhavan S., Sirisha T., Sai Mohan A., Raju D.V.S., Dorajee Rao A.V.D. and Ravindra Kumar K. (2023). Influence of Bio-Stimulants on Flowering, Yield and Disease Incidence in Chrysanthemum (Dendranthema grandiflora T.) cv. Local YellowBiological Forum – An International Journal, 15(10): 1375-1379.'),(7923,'168','Influence of Foliar Application of Zinc and Boron on Physico-chemical Attributes of Pomegranate cv. Ganesh','Maneesh Kumar, T.R. Sharma, Manmohan Singh Bhooriya, Shreesty Pal, Dinesh Kumar Kuldeep and Rahul Dongre\r\n','Influence of Foliar Application of Zinc and Boron on Physico-chemical Attributes of Pomegranate cv-253.pdf','',1,'Effect of foliar spray of zinc and boron on physical and bio-chemical characteristics of pomegranate (Punica granatum L.) cv. ‘Ganesh’ was carried out at Fruit Research Station Imaliya, Department of Horticulture, JNKVV, Jabalpur, India during Hast bahar of 2017-18. The experiment was laid in randomized block design with three replications. The treatment consisted of two foliar applications of Zinc sulphate and Boric acid with their different combinations. The findings revealed that foliar spray of T11 (B + Zn @ 0.4% each) was found to be the best as compared to control treatment. Among the treatment the foliar application of B + Zn @ 0.4% each was effective in enhancing physical parameters of fruit viz. Fruit length (7.0 cm), (8.1 cm), (8.7 cm), fruit diameter (6.0 cm), (7.6 cm), (8.3 cm) at 60,90 and 120 days. juice content (55.60%), Bio- chemical parameters viz. Total soluble solids TSS 15.33 0Brix), reducing sugar (11.35%), non- reducing (1.70%), total sugar (13.2%).','Pomegranate, Micro nutrient, Physical and Bio-chemical parameter.','Based on the findings of the current study, it was determined that, when compared to the control treatment, the foliar spray of B2(0.4%) + Zn2(0.4%) was the most effective. Among the treatments, the foliar spray of B2(0.4%) + Zn2(0.4%) was successful in improving the biochemical parameter, TSS, acidity, total sugar, reducing sugar, fruit length (cm), fruit diameter (cm), non-reduction (%), and juice (%) of hast bahar in pomegranates.','-','Maneesh Kumar, T.R. Sharma, Manmohan Singh Bhooriya, Shreesty Pal, Dinesh Kumar Kuldeep and Rahul Dongre (2023). Influence of Foliar Application of Zinc and Boron on Physico-chemical Attributes of Pomegranate cv. Ganesh. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 15(10): 1380-1383.'),(7924,'168','A Comprehensive Review on Physicochemical Analysis and Quality Parameters of Various Mango Fruit Cultivars','Dinesh Kumar Kuldeep, D.P. Sharma, Manmohan Singh Bhooriya, Anil Nagwanshi, Maneesh Kumar, Vishvash Uikey and Rahul Dongre','A Comprehensive Review on Physicochemical Analysis and Quality Parameters of Various Mango Fruit Cultivars-254.pdf','',1,'This review provides an exhaustive analysis of the physicochemical properties and quality parameters of various mango (Mangifera indica) cultivars, emphasizing their impact on consumer preference, agricultural practices, and the global mango market. Mangoes, being one of the most consumed tropical fruits worldwide, exhibit significant diversity in terms of size, shape, color, texture, sugar content, acidity, vitamin and mineral composition, and antioxidant presence. This review systematically explores these attributes across different cultivars, employing a comprehensive literature search and analysis methodology. The study identifies notable variations in size, weight, and external appearance among cultivars, with implications for consumer appeal and marketability. Textural properties, including firmness and pulp texture, are shown to significantly influence sensory evaluation and consumer preferences. Additionally, color analysis reveals correlations between skin and flesh color with maturity and ripeness, essential for determining optimal harvest times and post-harvest processing. Chemical composition analysis underscores the diversity in sugar types and concentrations, acid profiles, and pH levels, profoundly affecting flavor profiles and preservation qualities. A comparative analysis of vitamin content, especially Vitamin C, and the presence of various antioxidants, highlights the nutritional value and health benefits of different mango cultivars. Moreover, the review discusses the varying mineral content across cultivars, emphasizing its importance in consumer health and product marketing. The sensory evaluation section of the review reveals how aroma and flavor profiles, influenced by physicochemical properties, dictate consumer preferences and acceptance. It examines the correlation between these properties and consumer choices, providing critical insights for producers and marketers. The review also addresses the implications for producers and the mango industry. It highlights the role of physicochemical properties in the selection and breeding of cultivars, the development of new cultivars based on quality parameters, and the impact of these parameters on marketability and export potential. Looking ahead, the review identifies gaps in current knowledge and potential areas for further research. It emphasizes the need for advanced technologies in physicochemical analysis and the exploration of sustainable cultivation and processing methods. The review concludes by underscoring the importance of continued research for optimizing mango cultivation and enhancing its global market presence, thus sustaining its position as a key player in the fruit industry.','Mangoes, Physicochemical, Nutrition, Antioxidants, Sustainability','This comprehensive review has elucidated the diverse physicochemical properties and quality parameters of various mango cultivars, highlighting their significance for consumers, producers, and the broader mango industry. We observed considerable variability in size, color, texture, and nutritional content across cultivars, underlining the importance of tailored cultivation and marketing strategies. The insights gained from sensory evaluation and consumer preference studies are invaluable for guiding cultivar selection and breeding programs. The potential for leveraging emerging technologies in cultivation and processing practices promises advancements in sustainability and efficiency. As we look to the future, continued research in this field is essential for optimizing the cultivation, processing, and marketing of mangoes, ensuring their enduring popularity and economic viability in the global market.','-','Dinesh Kumar Kuldeep, D.P. Sharma, Manmohan Singh Bhooriya, Anil Nagwanshi, Maneesh Kumar, Vishvash Uikey and Rahul Dongre (2023). A Comprehensive Review on Physicochemical Analysis and Quality Parameters of Various Mango Fruit Cultivars. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 15(10): 1384-1389.'),(7925,'168','Isolation and Efficacy Evaluation of Forest Soil Microflora (FSM) Against Sclerotium rolfsii (Sacc.) causing Stem Rot of Groundnut under in vitro Conditions','Archana N., Srilatha P., Vidysagar B., Pavani Y. and Avanija M. ','Isolation-and-Efficacy-Evaluation-of-Forest-Soil-Microflora-(FSM)-Against-Sclerotium-rolfsii-(Sacc.)-causing-Stem-Rot-of-Groundnut-under-in-vitro-Conditions-Archana-N-255.pdf','',1,'Major threat in chemical control of plant diseases is the fungicide resistance, environmental pollution and health hazards. Therefore, an ecofriendly approach such as biological control is necessary. Biological control play a powerful role for the treatment of bacterial and fungal plant diseases. Bacteria with a variety of mechanisms involved in limiting the spread of plant diseases are some of the most extensively studied biological control agents. A total of 42 bacteria and 36 fungi were isolated from the various regions of Katkur Reserve Forest and Tirumala kunta Reserve Forest under Bhadradri Kothagudem district following dilution method. The conventional dual culture technique was used to further confirm the antagonistic activity of these forest soil isolates. On the basis of the outcomes, the potential isolates were chosen. The potential isolates FSF10, FSB2, FSB4, FSB16 and FSF30 inhibited fungal growth by 76.44%, 61.12%, 63.78%, 60.76 % and 64.79% respectively, in a dual culture test. The study suggests that the FSF10 (Trichoderma erinaceum) has highest potential to be used as biocontrol agent against Sclerotium rolfsii causing groundnut stem rot.','Antagonistics, Forest soil microbes, Groundnut stem rot, Trichoderma erinaceum, Bacillus spp','In this experiment, 42 bacterial and 36 fungal cultures were isolated and screened against the groundnut stem rot causing pathogen Sclerotium rolfsii. through their biocontrol mechanisms. Among them 18 forest soil bacterial isolates and 13 fungal isolates were shown more than 40 % of inhibition of radial growth of pathogen. The isolates FSF10, FSB2, FSB4, FSB16, FSB30 were the potential isolates showing highest percent of inhibition with FSF10 showing maximum percent inhibition. Based on the morphological and molecular characterization the FSF10 isolate is identified as Trichoderma erinaceaum. So these isolates can be further screened at field level and can be used as biocontrol agents against groundnut stem rot disease as an ecofriendly control measure of disease.','-','Archana N., Srilatha P., Vidysagar B., Pavani Y. and Avanija M. (2023). Isolation and Efficacy Evaluation of Forest Soil Microflora (FSM) Against Sclerotium rolfsii (Sacc.) causing Stem Rot of Groundnut under in vitro Conditions. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 15(10): 1390-1394.'),(7926,'168','A Review on Fruit Morphological and Physicochemical Characters of Different Cultivars of Mango','Vishvash Uikey, Dinesh Kumar Kuldeep, Anil Nagwanshi, Maneesh Kumar, Mohan Giri and Reema Khobragade ','A-Review-on-Fruit-Morphological-and-Physicochemical-Characters-of-Different-Cultivars-of-Mango-Dinesh-Kumar-Kuldeep-256.pdf','',1,'Mango (Mangifera indica), one of the most significant tropical fruits, presents a remarkable diversity in its cultivars, each exhibiting unique morphological and physicochemical properties. This comprehensive review aims to synthesize current knowledge on the distinct characteristics of various mango cultivars, their impact on usage, preference, and the challenges and future perspectives in their cultivation and conservation. The morphological characteristics, including fruit size, shape, skin color, and texture, were evaluated, noting that these attributes significantly influence consumer appeal and marketability. The physicochemical analysis focused on sugar content, acidity, flavor profile, and nutritional constituents. This review established that variations in sugar content and acidity directly correlate with sensory properties like sweetness and tartness, affecting consumer preferences and determining suitability for different culinary uses. Furthermore, the nutritional analysis underscored the health benefits associated with mango consumption, highlighting the fruit\'s richness in vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants. The study also addressed the challenges in mango cultivation, primarily focusing on the impact of climate change and disease and pest susceptibility. The variability in climate resilience among different cultivars and the emerging threats of new diseases and pests were identified as key concerns. In response, the potential of breeding programs and genetic modification efforts in developing improved traits for resistance, quality, and adaptability were discussed. The future research directions were mapped, emphasizing the exploration of underutilized cultivars to broaden the genetic base and adapt to changing environmental and market conditions. The role of technological advancements in cultivation, such as precision agriculture, and post-harvest processing techniques to enhance fruit quality and shelf life was highlighted as crucial for the sustainable growth of the mango industry.','Cultivars, Physicochemical, Nutrition, Breeding, Sustainability, Genetics','This review has highlighted the diverse morphological and physicochemical characteristics of mango cultivars and their significant impact on cultivation, commercial use, and consumer preferences. The variability in size, shape, skin texture, and internal qualities like sugar content, acidity, and nutritional value underscores the complexity and richness of this fruit. However, the challenges posed by climate change and disease susceptibility necessitate focused research and innovative breeding strategies. Exploring underutilized cultivars and integrating advanced technologies in cultivation and post-harvest processing are vital steps toward a sustainable future for the mango industry. This review not only sheds light on the current state of mango diversity but also sets a foundation for future studies and initiatives aimed at optimizing the cultivation and utilization of this globally cherished fruit.','-','Vishvash Uikey, Dinesh Kumar Kuldeep, Anil Nagwanshi, Maneesh Kumar, Mohan Giri and Reema Khobragade (2023). A Review on Fruit Morphological and Physicochemical Characters of Different Cultivars of Mango. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 15(10): 1395-1401.'),(7927,'168','Micronutrient Status of Soil in Barshitakli Tahsil of Akola District','Akanksha D. Chiliwant, Alpana Kumhare, Yagini Tekam, Kailash Kumar, Neetu Kokode and Mrunal R. Gedam','Micronutrient-Status-of-Soil-in-Barshitakli-Tahsil-of-Akola-District-Alpana-Kumhare-257.pdf','',1,'The investigation in relation to the “Micronutrient status of soil in Barshitakli tahsil of Akola district” was undertaken during 2020–21. Through this investigation, observations were taken of the soil\'s physico-chemical properties and the major and micronutrient status of surface soils. Sustainable food production and the health of the soil are dependent on micronutrients. The soils under study were slightly to moderately alkaline in reaction, and the EC values for these soils were within the safe limit. The organic carbon content in these soils showed a medium to moderately high status. The free CaCO3 content of these soils ranged from moderately to high calcareous in nature. Barshitakli tahsil soils had a range of micronutrient cation contents; available Zn content was between 0.17 and 0.69 mg kg-1, and available Fe content was between 1.1 and 3.75 mg kg-1, Mn content varies from 0.97 to 4.93 mg kg-1, Cu content varied from 0.25 to 3.12 mg kg-1. Results show that these soils are well supplied with Mn and Cu and low to marginal in Zn and Fe. The correlation study reveals that the availability of major nutrients and micronutrients decreases with an increase in pH. The increase in organic carbon leads to an increase in Zn, Fe, Mn, and Cu. The soil fertility index worked out for major and micronutrients and showed that, as per the six-tier system, iron (Fe) comes under the very low category, zinc comes under the low category, manganese comes under the moderate category, and Cu comes under the very high category. The rapid depletion of available micronutrients from the soil has been exacerbated by the current intense cropping of high-yielding varieties (HYV) with the application of micronutrient-free, high-responsive fertilisers to increase food grain production. Each crop must be designed with a specialized fertilizer formulation technology for optimal production and productivity under certain agro-ecological conditions. Satisfying the increasing population nowadays requires appropriate policies to create apprehension amongst the farming community for determining micronutrient deficiency precisely and maintaining balanced fertilization, which is especially required to maintain the health of the soil along with crop sustainability.','Calcareous, Micronutrient, Organic carbon, Soil fertility, Sustainability','It can be concluded from the above results that the soils in Barshitakli tahsil in the Akola district of Maharashtra were slightly to moderately alkaline in soil reaction (pH) and soluble salt content (EC) came under the safe range. The soils were moderately to highly calcareous, and the organic carbon level was medium to very high. The available N and P in the soils were low to medium, the available S was low to high, and the available K was medium to high. While Mn and Cu were sufficient, the majority of the soil samples required Zn and Fe. The available N, P, and S as well as the micronutrients Zn, Fe, Mn, and Cu exhibit negative correlations with soil pH and EC. Organic carbon and available N, K, and S as well as the micronutrients, showed a positive and significant association.','-','Akanksha D. Chiliwant, Alpana Kumhare, Yagini Tekam, Kailash Kumar, Neetu Kokode and Mrunal R. Gedam (2023). Micronutrient Status of Soil in Barshitakli Tahsil of Akola District. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 15(10): 1402-1406.'),(7928,'168','Multivariate Analysis of Seed Yield-Related Traits in Safflower (Carthamus tinctorius) Genotypes','Pushpa H.D., Helan Baby Thomas, Anil Kumar A., Mangesh Y. Dudhe, Praduman Yadav and Anjani Kamali ','Multivariate-Analysis-of-Seed-Yield-Related-Traits-in-Safflower-(Carthamus-tinctorius)-Genotypes-Pushpa-HD-258.pdf','',1,'Safflower is highly regarded for its nutritional and pharmaceutical properties. Despite this, the area under safflower crop has been declining over the years, due to its low productivity. Genetic diversity plays an important role in the improvement of crop. Exploiting the existing genetic diversity within the safflower germplasm is crucial in identifying the genotypes with seed yield and wider adaptability. Several statistical methods have been employed for the estimation of diversity among different genotypes. Multivariate analysis is one of the most often used techniques for determining genetic diversity between genotypes. In the present study, a total of 16 safflower advanced breeding lines were evaluated under rainfed conditions during rabi 2021 at ICRISAT-Hyderabad. Data were recorded on nine quantitative traits. The total variation among genotypes was divided into nine Principal Components (PCs). The first three PCs with Eigen values>1 contributed to 73.34% of the total variability among genotypes. Traits with maximum values in PC1 were number of effective capitula and seed yield. PC2 with a 22.82% variation contribution was highly associated with seed yield, number of seeds per capitula, and days to maturity. In PC3 major contributors were plant height and number of effective capitula. Traits viz., plant height, number of effective capitula, number of seeds per capitula, days to maturity and seed yield contributed significant positive component loading to these principal components (PCs). multivariate analysis divided the 16 genotypes into three clusters. The findings from present study revealed that selection for seed yield in safflower may be based on the traits viz., number of effective capitula, number of branches and 100 seed test weight. ','Correlation, Cluster, Oilseed, Principal Component Analysis, Seed yield','The various statistical techniques employed in this study indicated that the most beneficial characteristics for improvement of seed yield in safflower would likely be the selection based on the seed yield traits viz., number of effective capitula, number of branches, and 100 seed test weight. The genotypes having high genetic diversity and more cluster distance can be used as parents in the crossing program, to recover transgressive segregants for seed yield-related traits. The results of this study could potentially guide future safflower breeding program design and implementation.','-','Pushpa H.D., Helan Baby Thomas, Anil Kumar A., Mangesh Y. Dudhe, Praduman Yadav and Anjani Kamali (2023). Multivariate Analysis of Seed Yield-Related Traits in Safflower (Carthamus tinctorius) Genotypes. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 15(10): 1407-1412.'),(7929,'168','Effect of Dietary Substitution of Dried Moringa oleifera Lam. Leaves on Biochemical Parameters of Urine of Badri Cattle','Deepikesh Joshi, Sanjay Kumar, Jyoti Palod, Anshu Rahal, A.K. Ghosh, Monika Sodhi and S.K. Rastogi ','Effect-of-Dietary-Substitution-of-Dried-Moringa-oleifera-Lam.-Leaves-on-Biochemical-Parameters-of-Urine-of-Badri-Cattle-Dr.-Deepikesh-Joshi-259.pdf','',1,'Animal husbandry is an integral part of the Indian economy. Badri cattle is reared by the people of hilly regions of Uttarakhand state. Moringa oleifera Lam. is a plant rich in vitamins, minerals and antioxidants which has been consumed as food by both animals and humans since a long time. The present study was carried out on 45 Badri cattle of the age groups 6-12 months, >12-18 months and lactating animals. All the animals of different age-groups were further divided into control (T0), treatment 1 (T1) and treatment 2 (T2) groups where the treatment groups 1 and 2 were fed with concentrate feed substituted with dried Moringa leaves @10 % and 20% substitution, respectively, for a period of 12 months. The challenge in this study was the reception of the experimental dried Moringa leaves’-mixed concentrate feed by the experimental Badri cattle as they reject the feed, if it smells different than usual, before ingesting it. This was managed by keeping an acclimatization period of 10 days for adaptation to this feed by the experimental animals. The results showed a non-significant change in pH, specific gravity and creatinine of experimental animals while overall urea concentration in urine increased significantly in T1 groups in younger (258.27±.04 mg/ dL) as well as lactating (258.23±.20 mg/ dL) age-groups. The study revealed that substitution of dried Moringa leaves in concentrate feed of Badri cattle had almost no fatal effect on biochemical quality of urine of the experimental animals, and hence, can be substituted by the farmers in field conditions. ','Badri, Moringa leaves, Concentrate feed, Urine biochemistry','It can be concluded that dietary substitution of Moringa leaves increases nitrogen metabolism in younger animals releasing more urea in urine but within the normal range, hence no urea toxicity is observed in the animals. Along with this, all other parameters showing no statistically significant changes depict that dried M. oleifera leaves can be substituted at 10% and 20% rates in concentrate feed and fed to Badri cattle in field conditions without any fear of any negative effects or change in their physiological health.','-','Deepikesh Joshi, Sanjay Kumar, Jyoti Palod, Anshu Rahal, A.K. Ghosh, Monika Sodhi and S.K. Rastogi (2023). Effect of Dietary Substitution of Dried Moringa oleifera Leaves on Biochemical Parameters of Urine of Badri Cattle. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 15(10): 1413-1418.'),(7930,'168','Studies on Succession and Population Dynamics of various Insect Pests in Established Sorghum Varieties','Shikha Patil and Bhavna Varma','Studies-on-Succession-and-Population-Dynamics-of-various-Insect-Pests-in-Established-Sorghum-Varieties-SHIKHA-PATIL-260.pdf','',1,'The present investigation entitled, “studies on succession and population dynamics of various insect pests in established sorghum varieties” was carried out in the experimental field of All India coordinated Sorghum Improvement Project, College of Agriculture, Indore, RVSKVV, Gwalior, M.P. during Kharif season established varieties (CSH-18, SPH-1653, Vidisha 60-1, JJ1041, JJ938, JJ1022 and RVJ1862) were sown in non-replicated manner. No insecticides were applied on the crop. Shoot fly (Atherigona soccata), stem borer (Chilo partellus), ear head bug (Calocoris angustatus), ear head worms (Cryptoblabus sp.) were recorded to be infesting the sorghum crop. The peak activity of shoot fly was recorded in SPH 1653 at 25 July (30th SMW) and the peak activity of stem borer was recorded in JJ 938 at 26 July (30th SMW) and the pick activity of ear head bug was recorded in JJ 1022 at 24 Sep (39th SMW) and the pick activity of ear head worm was recorded in JJ 938 at 24 Sep. (39th SMW).','Sorghum, Shoot fly, Stem borer, Ear head bug, Ear head warm and Population dynamics','On the basis of overall performance in combating pests the following entries have been categories as resistant varieties, moderately resistant varieties and susceptible varieties. Under timely sown crop condition bug and worm count ranged between 3.33 and 12.60, 3.03 and 15.33 respectively. However, under late sown condition the population of bug and worm ranged from 1.67 to 6.67 and 2.33 to 7.67.\r\nIt can be concluded from present data that maximum infestation of shoot fly dead hearts observed in cultivars SPH 1653 as compared to rest of cultivars. However, the more infestation by stem borer (leaf injury and dead hearts) was reported in JJ 938. The maximum ear head bug individuals were found in JJ 1022 whereas the population of ear worm more in JJ938.\r\n','-','Shikha Patil and Bhavna Varma (2023). Studies on Succession and Population Dynamics of Various Insect Pests in Established Sorghum Varieties. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 15(10): 1419-1422.'),(7931,'169','Study on Soil Fertility Status of Kalapipal Tehsil of Shajapur District, Madhya Pradesh','Neetu Kokode, K.S. Bangar, Alpana Kumhare, Kailash Kumar and Yagini Tekam','Study on Soil Fertility Status of Kalapipal Tehsil of Shajapur District, Madhya Pradesh-12-Alpana Kumhare.pdf','',1,'The study was carried out during 2020–21 on the soil fertility status of Kalapipal tehsil in Shajapur district, Madhya Pradesh. The decline in soil fertility is causing growing concerns over the sustainability of Indian agriculture. The study included soil physical properties, soil chemical properties, and correlations among various soil properties for detailed data on soil fertility. The physical properties of the soil included the sand, silt, and clay content of the soils of Kalapipal tehsil. The sand content ranged from 13.7 to 28.7% among the 101 collected samples, with an average of 22.1%. The silt content of the soils of Kalapipal tehsil ranged from 24.4 to 34.6% among the 101 collected samples. The clay content of the studied soils ranged from 41.4% to 47.5%, with a mean value of 48.9%. The water-soluble cations, viz., Ca++, Mg++, Na+, and K+, content of the soils of Kalapipal tehsil ranged from 3.23 to 15.47 me L-1, 2.32 to 9.18 me L-1, 0.79 to 2.30 me L-1 and 0.21 to 1.87 me L-1, respectively. The mean water-soluble Ca++, Mg++, Na+, and K+ contents of the studied soils were 9.78 me L-1, 4.68 me L-1, 1.31 me L-1 and 0.54 me L-1, respectively. Similarly, the water-soluble anions, viz., CO32-, HCO3-, Cl-, and SO42- content of the soils of Kalapipal tehsil ranged from 0.40 to 3.33 me L-1, 4.75 to 12.40 me L-1, 1.66 to 9.89 me L-1 and 0.21 to 10.03 me L-1, respectively, among the studied samples. The mean water soluble CO32-, HCO3-, Cl- and SO42- content of studied soils was found 1.39 me L-1, 8.36 me L-1, 4.56 me L-1 and 1.92 me L-1, respectively. Further, the exchangeable cations viz., Ca++, Mg++, Na+ and K+ content of soils of Kalapipal tehsil ranged 13.70 to 32.26 me L-1, 4.98 to 19.67 me L-1, 2.44-7.07 me L-1 and 0.16-0.44 me L-1, respectively. The mean exchangeable Ca++, Mg++, Na+ and K+ content of soils of Kalapipal tehsil was found 21.12 me L-1, 9.95 me L-1, 4.04 me L-1 and 0.26 me L-1, respectively. The CEC of soils of Kalapipal tehsil ranged from 30.07 to 51.47 cmol kg-1 with an average value of 35.37 cmol kg-1 pH of soils of Kalapipal tehsil ranged from 7.22 to 8.26, with an average value of 7.70 indicating the neutral to slightly acidic nature of the studied soils. Similarly, the EC of soils of Kalapipal tehsil ranged from 0.14 to 1.94 dS m-1 among the 101 collected samples. The mean EC of soils of Kalapipal tehsil was found to be 0.67 dS m-1. The results revealed the non-saline nature of the studied soils. The SOC content of soils of Kalapipal tehsil ranged from 0.32% to 0.92% among the 101 collected samples. The mean SOC content of soils of Kalapipal tehsil was found to be 0.52% indicating medium SOC content in studied soils. The available N, P and K content of the soils of Kalapipal tehsil ranged from 96.6 to 392.3 kg ha-1, 5.5 to 34.2 kg ha-1 and 218.1-593.8 kg ha-1, respectively among the studied samples. Further, the mean available N, P and K content of soils of Kalapipal tehsil was found 195.1 kg ha-1, 14.7 kg ha-1 and 393.3 kg ha-1, respectively.','Electrical conductivity, exchangeable cation, soil physical properties, soil fertility, water soluble cation.','The soil of Kalapipal tehsil belongs to clayey texture (sand, silt and clay found 22.1%, 29.0% and 48.9%, respectively). The studied soil is neutral to slightly alkaline (pH-7.70) in reaction, non-saline (EC-0.67 dS m-1) and medium in soil organic carbon content (0.52%). The soil available N (195.1 kg ha-1) and P (14.7 kg ha-1) content are medium whereas the K (393.3 kg ha-1) content is high. The soil organic carbon content of soil showed significant and positive correlation with soil available N. The EC of soil saturation extract showed significant positive correlation with water soluble Ca++, water soluble Mg++, water soluble Na+, water soluble K+, water soluble CO3--, water soluble HCO3- , water soluble Cl- and water soluble SO4--. The soil electrical conductivity showed significant and positive correlation with soil available P.','-','Neetu Kokode, K.S. Bangar, Alpana Kumhare, Kailash Kumar and Yagini Tekam (2023). Study on Soil Fertility Status of Kalapipal Tehsil of Shajapur District, Madhya Pradesh. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 15(11): 62-70.'),(7932,'169','Effect of Nano-Zinc on Uptake of Nitrogen, Phosphorus, Potassium and Zinc by Maize (Zea mays L.)','Shruthi S.H., A.V. Solanke, N. J. Danawale, Basavaraj Biradar, A.G. Durgude and M.R. Patil ','Effect-of-Nano-Zinc-on-Uptake-of-Nitrogen,-Phosphorus,-Potassium-and-Zinc-by-Maize-(Zea-mays-L.)-Shruthi-SH-13.pdf','',1,'The valuable insights into the potential benefits and challenges associated with using Nano-Zinc in increasing the efficiency of nutrient utilization by maize, particularly nitrogen, phosphorus, potassium, and zinc, which are crucial for plant growth and development in the specific context of the semi-arid tropics of Maharashtra. A field experiment was conducted during rabi 2022 on Instructional Farm, PGI, Mahatma Phule Krishi Vidyapeeth, Rahuri, Dist. Ahmednagar (Maharashtra). The experiment was laid out in randomized block design with three replications and eight treatments. The experiment consists of two foliar applications of Nano-Zinc oxide at vegetative stage (30 DAS) and flowering stage (45 DAS). Treatment involving GRDF (General recommended dose of fertilizer) + Two foliar application of Nano-Zinc oxide @ 800 ppm was recorded highest uptake of nitrogen in grain, stover and total of (94.85, 71.77 and 166.93 kg ha-1), phosphorus (27.20, 20.43 and 47.72 kg ha-1), potassium (39.33, 112.66 and 152.27 kg ha-1) and zinc (165.50, 85.45 and 250.95 g ha-1) This treatment is significantly at par with GRDF + Two foliar application of Nano-Zinc oxide @ 600 ppm, which is followed by the treatment GRDF + Two foliar application of Nano-Zinc oxide @ 400 ppm and GRDF + Two foliar application of Chelated Zinc @ 2000 ppm.','Nano-Zinc oxide, nitrogen, phosphorus, potassium, Chelated Zinc, GRDF','The enhanced efficiency in zinc absorption is achieved through the utilization of ZnO nanoparticle treatments, owing to the augmented availability of surface area facilitated by the nanoparticles. Consequently, maize plants demonstrated an increased capacity to accumulate higher concentrations of zinc in their tissues. This heightened uptake and accumulation of N, P, K and zinc in both seeds and leaves can be ascribed to the application of ZnO nanoparticles, surpassing the effectiveness of the conventional ZnSO4 treatment. The study underscores the noteworthy potential of nano zinc fertilizers in enhancing plant zinc nutrition.','-','Shruthi S.H., A.V. Solanke, N. J. Danawale, Basavaraj Biradar, A.G. Durgude and M.R. Patil (2023). Effect of Nano-Zinc on Uptake of Nitrogen, Phosphorus, Potassium and Zinc by Maize (Zea mays L.). Biological Forum – An International Journal, 15(11): 71-75.'),(7933,'168','Elucidating Components of Genetic Variation for Yield and Yield Attributing Traits in Rice (Oryza sativa L.) Germplasm Lines','Rahul Saini, Bupesh Kumar, Vikas Sharma, V.B. Singh and R.S. Sudan','Elucidating-Components-of-Genetic-Variation-for-Yield-and-Yield-Attributing-Traits-in-Rice-(Oryza-sativa-L.)-Germplasm-Lines-Rahul-Saini-261.pdf','',1,'Evolving high yielding cultivars is one of the prime objectives of breeding and such cultivars can be evolved by hybridizing dissimilar parents. Therefore, identification of such parents is the prerequisite and until and unless components of genetic variation are not worked out such parents cannot be identified. The present study was carried out during Kharif 2022 with an aim to elucidate components of genetic variation for yield and yield attributing traits in rice germplasm lines. The experiment was conducted at two locations viz., Experimental area of Division of Plant Breeding and Genetics and Regional Agriculture Research Station (RARS) Rajouri in which twenty-six rice germplasm lines were evaluated in Randomized Complete Block Design (RCBD) in three replications having a plot size of 5m2. Data on yield and yield attributing traits viz., number of days to 50 per cent flowering, plant height, total number of tillers per plant, number of effective tillers per plant, days to maturity, panicle length, 1000 grain weight and grain yield per plant were recorded following standard procedures and was statistically analysed using appropriate software. Analysis of variance revealed significant variation among the germplasm lines for all the traits studied indicating presence of sufficient variation in the experimental material. Estimates of components of genetic variation revealed that traits like days to 50 per cent flowering and plant height were found to have high heritability coupled with high genetic advance indicating the effectiveness of selection in improving these traits. ','Genetic variation, rice, heritability and genetic advance','The germplasm lines under present study were found to be distinct w.r.t agro-morphological, yield and yield attributing traits. Traits like Days to 50 percent and plant height showed high heritability with genetic advance estimates, which suggested additive gene may be present and selection might be effective and hence can be utilized in future breeding programmes. ','-','Rahul Saini, Bupesh Kumar, Vikas Sharma, V.B. Singh and R.S. Sudan (2023). Elucidating Components of Genetic Variation for Yield and Yield Attributing Traits in Rice (Oryza sativa L.) Germplasm Lines. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 15(10): 1423-1427.'),(7934,'168','Inheritance of Newly Identified Asiatic Rust Resistance Source EC 242104 in Soybean','Govinda Sabale, Vivek Chimote, Milind Deshmukh and Gorakshnath Shinde ','Inheritance-of-Newly-Identified-Asiatic-Rust-Resistance-Source-EC-242104-in-Soybean-Govinda-Sabale-262.pdf','',1,'An experiment was carried out at ARS., Kasbe Digraj, Sangli to study the inheritance of Asiatic rust resistance in a newly identified resistant source (EC 242104) of soybean in Kharif 2022. For this purpose, two crosses were made viz., Cross I JS 2098 x EC 242104 and Cross II KDS 753 × EC 242104 and various generations (F1 & F2) of these crosses were evaluated along with their parents (P1 and P2) and susceptible check (JS 335). In order to spread infection, susceptible check JS 335 was sown on the border row and in between the lines. The distribution of rust grade, on a scale of 0 to 7, was noted for lesion types that were immune, reddish brown (RB) or resistant and TAN lesion or susceptible. The study revealed that in cross-I JS 2098 × EC 242104, the F2 progenies segregated in 3 resistant: 1 susceptible ratio indicating monogenic dominant inheritance of resistance to soybean rust. In cross-II KDS 753 × EC 242104, the F2 progenies segregated in 15 resistant: 1susceptible ratio indicating duplicate gene interaction, when presence of either of dominant gene/allele ensures rust resistance.','Soybean, Rust, Inheritance, Phakospora pachyrhizi, EC 242104','From above findings it is clearly evident that Asiaticrust resistance in cross I JS 2098 × EC 242104 was controlled by single dominant gene. In cross II KDS 753 × EC 242104, two dominant genes controlling resistance reaction resulted into duplicate gene interaction. This is because KDS 753 already contain rust resistance gene from parent EC 241780. Identified exotic germplasm line EC 242104 showed highly resistance reaction.','-','Govinda Sabale, Vivek Chimote, Milind Deshmukh and Gorakshnath Shinde (2023). Inheritance of Newly Identified Asiatic Rust Resistance Source EC 242104 in Soybean. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 15(10): 1428-1431.'),(7935,'168','Efficacy of Rice Rich (Gluconate and lactate based organic nutrients) for yield enhancement of Rice (Oryza sativa L.) in Vertisols of Chhattisgarh','Saraswati Karwar, Angad Singh Rajput, PR Mirjha, Monika Patel and Meena Kumari','Efficacy-of-Rice-Rich-(Gluconate-and-lactate-based-organic-nutrients)-for-yield-enhancement-of-Rice-(Oryza-sativa-L.)-in-Vertisols-of-Chhattisgarh-Saraswati-Karwar-263.pdf','',1,'The present investigation aimed to evaluate the efficacy of Rice Rich (Gluconate and lactate based organic nutrients) for yield enhancement of Rice (Oryza sativa L.) in Vertisols of Chhattisgarh during the kharif season of 2022-23. The experiment was conducted at the Instructional Farm, Alesur, Dau Kalyan Singh College of Agriculture and Research Station, Bhatapara (C.G.), using a Randomized Block Design with 11 treatments replicated three times. The results indicated that the application of Rice Rich significantly affected various growth parameters of rice plants. The Panicle length, filled grain yield, test weight, grain yield, straw yield, and harvest index were also highest in treatment T5, closely followed by T4 (75% RDF + Rice Rich (Gluconate and lactate based organic nutrients) 4ml/L (30, 60, 90 and 110 DAT). consistently yields significant improvements across all parameters, offering farmers a valuable tool to optimize rice production, enhance grain quality, and increase overall crop performance. This study underscores the practical value of organic nutrient supplementation in modern agriculture. A study evaluated the effect of an organic nutrient supplement, Rice Rich, on rice grown in Vertisols. Rice Rich applied alone or with reduced fertilizer significantly improved plant growth and yield parameters like panicle length and grain/straw yield, showing promise to enhance productivity in these soils.','Gluconate, Lactate, Rice, Yield, Rice Rich, Vertisols, DKS CARS','In conclusion, the application of Rice Rich, an organic nutrient containing Gluconate and lactate, had a substantial positive impact on various growth and yield parameters of rice. Notably, it led to longer panicles, higher filled grain yield, and increased test weight, highlighting its potential to enhance grain quality. Moreover, Rice Rich significantly boosted grain yield and straw yield with treatment T5 (75% RDF + Rice Rich (Gluconate and lactate based organic nutrients) 5ml/L (30, 60, 90 and 110 DAT) emerging as the most promising. These findings reinforce the value of organic nutrient supplementation, which synergistically complemented inorganic fertilizers, optimizing nutrient availability. Overall, Rice Rich shows promise in improving rice production, aligning with prior research and demonstrating its potential to enhance crop performance and yield.','-','Saraswati Karwar, Angad Singh Rajput, PR Mirjha, Monika Patel and Meena Kumari (2023). Efficacy of Rice Rich (Gluconate and lactate based organic nutrients) for yield enhancement of Rice (Oryza sativa L.) in Vertisols of Chhattisgarh. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 15(10): 1428-1431.'),(7936,'168','To study the Solubilized Phosphorus on yield and yield attributes of Rice','Monika Patel, Rajendra Lakpale, Panch Ram Mirjha, Saraswati Karwar and Meena Kumari ','To-study-the-Solubilized-Phosphorus-on-yield-and-yield-attributes-of-Rice-Monika-Patel-264.pdf','',1,'A field experiment was conducted during the kharif season of 2022 at Instructional Farm, Alesur, Dau Kalyan Singh College of Agriculture and Research Station, Bhatapara (C.G.) to evaluate the “Efficacy of Solubilized Phosphorus on Plant Growth and Productivity of Rice (Oryza sativa L.)”. The experiment followed a Randomized Block Design (RBD) with 11 treatments, each replicated three times. Various growth parameters were measured at different stages of the rice crop, and the results were analyzed. The results demonstrated a significant impact of solubilized phosphorus on various growth parameters of rice. At 30, 60, 90 days after transplanting, and at harvest, treatment T5 (75% RDF + Solubilized phosphorus 4 ml/L) consistently exhibited the tallest plant height, the highest number of roots, and the maximum root length. It also resulted in the maximum number of leaves and tillers at 30, 60, 90 days after transplanting, and at harvest. Moreover, treatment T5 (75% RDF + Solubilized phosphorus 4 ml/L) showed the highest grain yield and straw yield at harvest, indicating its positive influence on the yield of rice. The study also examined the dry matter accumulation, crop growth rate, relative growth rate, leaf area index, harvest index, and phosphorus use efficiency. Treatment T5 (75% RDF + Solubilized phosphorus 4 ml/L) consistently showed the maximum values for these parameters at different stages of growth, suggesting its potential in enhancing rice productivity followed by T4 (75% RDF + Solubilized phosphorus 3 ml/L). Assessing the Impact of Solubilized Phosphorus on Rice Growth: Experimenting with 11 treatments, observing growth parameters, revealing significant yield boosts in treatment T5.','Solubilized phosphorus, Rice, Yield, productivity, RDF, DKS CARS','Grain yield (t ha-1) and Straw yield (t ha-1) were found significantly maximum in treatment (T5) 75% RDF + Soluble phosphorus 4 ml/L.\r\nAmong the treatments, treatment T11 (Solubilized phosphorus 4 ml/) showed the maximum harvest index of followed by T8 (50% RDF + Solubilized phosphorus 4 ml/L). \r\nIn conclusion, the treatment (T5) 75% RDF + Soluble phosphorus 4 ml/L, exhibited the best performance in terms of yield and phosphorus use efficiency followed by (T4) 75% RDF + Soluble phosphorus 3 ml/L. These results indicate that the application of solubilized phosphorus, in conjunction with reduced fertilizer dosage, can effectively enhance rice growth and productivity.\r\n','-','Monika Patel, Rajendra Lakpale, Panch Ram Mirjha, Saraswati Karwar and Meena Kumari (2023). To study the Solubilized Phosphorus on yield and yield attributes of Rice. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 15(10): 1436-1439.'),(7937,'168','Optimizing Enzymatic Processes for Enhanced Sugarcane Bagasse Utilization in Ethanol Production through Fungal Solid-State Fermentation','Ravi Kumar, Nitin Kumar and Ravi Gupta','Optimizing-Enzymatic-Processes-for-Enhanced-Sugarcane-Bagasse-Utilization-in-Ethanol-Production-through-Fungal-Solid-State-Fermentation-Ravi-Kumar-265.pdf','',1,'The impact of incubation time on enzyme production was examined using wheat bran as the sole carbon source in SSF. A time-dependent increase in enzyme production was observed, particularly between the 3rd and 6th days, indicating a substantial and stable rise. T. viride exhibited peak activities, with CMCase and FPase reaching 6.33 IU/g and 8.09 FPU/g, respectively, after 6 days. In contrast, T. harzianum demonstrated superior xylanase activity, peaking at 9104 IU/g after 7 days. This underscores the critical role of temporal dynamics in optimizing enzyme production for efficient wheat bran utilization. In temperature optimization results revealed 30 °C as the most favourable temperature for maximal enzyme secretion. Under SSF conditions, T. viride displayed peak activities of 8.76 IU/g, 9.13 FPU/g, and 1115.25 IU/g for CMCase, FPase, and xylanases, respectively. Similarly, T. harzianum exhibited maximum activities of 3.16 IU/g, 7.35 FPU/g, and 9088.43 IU/g for CMCase, FPase, and xylanases, respectively, under the same conditions. The enzymatic activity of T. viride and T. harzianum has increased the ethanol production process. These findings provide valuable insights into creating an optimal environment for maximizing enzyme productivity, enhancing the efficiency of sugarcane bagasse utilization in ethanol production. ','Sugarcane, Wheat Bran, Solid-State Fermentation, Ethanol production','This study on cellulases and xylanases production via solid-state fermentation with T. harzianum and T. viride revealed a direct correlation between fermentation time and enzyme yield, peaking at 6 days for T. viride and 7 days for T. harzianum. Temperature optimization showed 30°C as the ideal condition for maximal enzyme secretion, with T. viride and T. harzianum exhibiting peak activities at 8.76 IU/g, 9.13 FPU/g, and 1115.25 IU/g, and 3.16 IU/g, 7.35 FPU/g, and 9088.43 IU/g, respectively. These findings advance our understanding of the temporal and temperature dynamics in fungal solid-state fermentation, offering valuable insights for industrial enzyme production.','-','Ravi Kumar, Nitin Kumar and Ravi Gupta (2023). Optimizing Enzymatic Processes for Enhanced Sugarcane Bagasse Utilization in Ethanol Production through Fungal Solid-State Fermentation. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 15(10): 1440-1444.'),(7938,'168','In Vitro Evaluation of Synergistic Anti-bacterial Effect of Raw Honey and Silk Cocoons Extract','Deepali Sambyal, Naresh Thakur, Nandini Rai, Neelam Saini, Shivani Rana, Sofia and Meenakshi Sharma ','In-Vitro-Evaluation-of-Synergistic-Anti-bacterial-Effect-of-Raw-Honey-and-Silk-Cocoons-Extract-Deepali-Sambyal-266.pdf','',1,'The study\'s objective is to ascertain the antibacterial activity of sericin and honey and their synergistic effect when used in combination. One of the largest challenges to world health, food security, and development progress is antibiotic resistance. It has been demonstrated that honey and sericin exhibit anti- bacterial effect on antibiotic-resistance strains. Considering the significant anti-microbial activity of honey and sericin, we have tested the synergistic anti-bacterial effect of raw honey and cocoons extract. Different concentrations of honey and sericin, the mixture was prepared to determine the anti-bacterial synergism. These samples were tested against bacterial strains of E. coli, S. aureus, P. aeruginosa and Klebsiella sp. The Kirby- Bauer disk diffusion technique was used for susceptibility testing. Over the MHA surface, the test organism was equally planted Microbial growth was assessed on MHA plates after 24 hours of incubation period. Honey and sericin inhibited the growth of all the test organisms. However, the endeavor is confronted by several challenges, standardization of raw materials is essential to account for variations, and method development must consider bacterial strains, optimal component ratio, and potential interactions. Overcoming has been done by standardization of the materials. When honey mixed with sericin, mixture showed higher antibacterial activity. Study showed that honey and sericin may be effective antibacterial future agents against resistant bacterial strains when used as combination. Sericin and honey have been found to provide health benefits for several ailments, such as microbial infections and wound healing.','Antibacterial activity, Silkworm, cocoons, Sericin','Finally, it was concluded that mixture of sericin and honey have efficient ability to inhibit the growth of bacterial strains. Therefore, honey and sericin could be used as a part of combination treatment for resistance bacterial infection.','-','Deepali Sambyal, Naresh Thakur, Nandini Rai, Neelam Saini, Shivani Rana, Sofia and Meenakshi Sharma (2023). In-Vitro Evaluation of Synergistic Anti-bacterial Effect of Raw Honey and Silk Cocoons Extract. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 15(10): 1445-1450.'),(7939,'168','Study of Biology and Bio-efficacy of Botanicals on Pulse Beetle (Callosobruchus chinensis L.) of Stored chickpea Seeds','Aman Soni, Pradeep Kumar, Vishal Sarsaiya and Gaurav Kumar Ahirwar','Study-of-Biology-and-Bio-efficacy-of-Botanicals-on-Pulse-Beetle-(Callosobruchus-chinensis-L.)-of-Stored-chickpea-Seeds-Aman-Soni-267.pdf','',1,'Botanicals are basically broad spectrum insecticides; botanicals are not very selective because of their wide range as they target broad range of insect and pest. In this study the major challenge and tremendous efforts have been made in control and authenticity of the botanicals its wider role in pest management their adoption and utilization for sustainable pest and crop management also its assessment against the major pest i.e., pulse beetle (Callosobruchus chinensis L.). The present research work also present the insect biology and efficacy to management of pulse beetle (Callosobruchus chinensis L.) on chickpea seeds under stored condition. Assessment of different botanicals for study their carried out during February to April year 2022 at Department of Entomology, Institute of Agriculture Sciences, Bundelkhand university Jhansi, based on different parameters related to pulse viz., adult egg laying, adult emergence, mortality, percentage of damage and weight loss. Significant variation observed and different hyphenated techniques among the botanicals with respect to damage of seeds by pulse beetle. Among all botanicals treatment neem leaf powder @ 5gm/ kg of seed was superior over the all other botanicals followed by the turmeric powder@ 5gm /kg of seed and lantana camara leaf powder @5 gm/kg of seeds observed effective to management of pulse beetle for minimizing their egg laying, adult emergence weight loss and damage percentage. All the treatments were showed effective over untreated control. These contributions of assessment of botanicals aims to provide a brief overview of the latest development in efficacy of all botanicals treatments which may be used for storage condition of chickpea because they are sustainable, safe for human being and environment also. ','Botanicals, Callosobruchus chinensis L., Chickpea, Lantana camara and Neem leaf powder','The plant based botanical seed protectant viz., Neem leaf powder, Dhatura leaf powder, Turmeric leaf powder, clove, Black pepper, Custard apple leaf powder, Lantana leaf powder and cow dung ash was used to management of pulse beetle was found effective to control their damage on stored chickpea seed and among these neem leaf powder was highly effective to high adult mortality, reducing fecundity, damage percent, minimum adult emergence and minimized weight loss per cent, these eco-friendly and have no hazardous effect on environment and human hence these can be used instead of synthetic pesticides. ','-','Aman Soni, Pradeep Kumar, Vishal Sarsaiya and Gaurav Kumar Ahirwar (2023). Study of Biology and Bio-efficacy of Botanicals on Pulse Beetle (Callosobruchus chinensis L.) of Stored chickpea Seeds. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 15(10): 1451-1454.'),(7940,'168','Effect of Growing Media and Growing Condition on Seedling Growth of Guava (Psidium guajava L.) cv. L-49','Surender Singh, Chandana B.S. and Shahroon Khan ','Effect-of-Growing-Media-and-Growing-Condition-on-Seedling-Growth-of-Guava-(Psidium-guajava-L.)-cv.-L-49-Shahroon-Khan-268.pdf','',1,'An experiment was conducted to assess the effect of different growing media and growing conditions on seedling growth of guava in L-49 variety. The growing of guava seedlings requires optimum growing media for better growth of guava plants. The experiment was carried out at CCS Haryana Agricultural University, Hisar at Precision Farming Development Centre (PFDC) during 2021-2022. The experiment was laid out in Randomized Block Design (RBD) comprising of ten treatments and three replications with two environmental conditions (open field and polyhouse). The experiment results indicated that T7-garden soil: FYM: vermicompost (2:1:1) recorded the maximum height of seedlings, stem girth, internodal length, number of leaves, survival percent and leaf area, T8-garden soil+ FYM + cocopeat (2:1:1) found at par with T7 for growing parameters. All the parameters found superior under polyhouse condition compared to open field condition. The best growing media identified in present study will help the farmers and nursery professionals for better growth of guava seedlings and help to reduced mortality in guava seedlings. ','Garden soil, guava, seedlings and vermicompost','All the parameters seedling heights, stem girth, internodal, number of leaves and survival percentage were found better than control. The results obtained with respect to height of seedling, stem girth, internodal length and number of leaves of guava seedlings were found maximum in T7- garden soil + FYM + vermicompost (2:1:1) at 60, 90, 120 DAS as compared to other treatments. The highest survival percentage and leaf area of seedling were also found best in T7 treatment 120 DAS. The results also revealed that among the growing conditions poly house found best for all growing parameters compared to open field condition.','-','Surender Singh, Chandana B.S. and Shahroon Khan (2023). Effect of Growing Media and Growing Condition on Seedling Growth of Guava (Psidium guajava L.) cv. L-49. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 15(10): 1455-1459.'),(7941,'168','First Record of Danio assamila Kullander, 2015 (Teleostei: Cyprinidae) from Eastern Ghats, Andhra Pradesh, India','Diamond Rajakumar Tenali, Nutangi Anusha, Ritesh Debbarma and Vedika Masram ','First-Record-of-Danio-assamila-Kullander,-2015-(Teleostei-Cyprinidae)-from-Eastern-Ghats,-Andhra-Pradesh,-India-Diamond-Rajakumar-Tenali-269.pdf','',1,'To know the diversity and status of fish’s and for their conservation, frequent fish explorations needed. Eastern ghats are geographical unique and contain unexplored diversity along with fish fauna and present study was made to know the fish diversity of small hill stream of Eastern Ghats Andhra Pradesh. Danio assamila, Kullander 2015 is recorded for the first time from the Munchangi Puttu hill stream, a river tributary of Sabari of the Godavari River basin, Andhra Pradesh, Eastern Ghats of India. The detailed morphometric and meristic data of the specimens that form the basis of this new record are presented. D. assamila is identified by a unique combination of characteristics such as the first ray of pectoral and pelvic fins projected distally from the rest of the rays, a cleithral spot large and rounded or slightly oval, a ring chain pattern not extending onto the caudal peduncle and lateral line complete with 32–36 scales.','Freshwater fish, taxonomy, hill streams, Eastern Ghats, River Godavari, India','According to the results of the current investigation, Danio assamila is found in the Eastern Ghats of India and the state of Andhra Pradesh. This is the first record of the occurrence in the region and indicates the possibilities of hidden diversity in the Eastern Ghats for need more attention for conservation measures to protect the valuable fish gene pool. ','-','Diamond Rajakumar Tenali, Nutangi Anusha, Ritesh Debbarma and Vedika Masram (2023). First Record of Danio assamila Kullander, 2015 (Teleostei: Cyprinidae) from Eastern Ghats, Andhra Pradesh, India. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 15(10): 1460-1463.'),(7942,'168','Mean performance studies for earliness and yield parameters in cucumber (Cucumis sativus L.)','Impa H. R., Ravindra Mulge, S.C. Evoor, Namita Raut and Raveendra S. Jawadagi','Mean-performance-studies-for-earliness-and-yield-parameters-in-cucumber-(Cucumis-sativus-L.)-Impa-HR-270.pdf','',1,'So far some studies on mean performance of cucumber have been done in overall India but there is a gap in generating scientific information on performance in cucumber collected overall the In dia spatially and temporally. In this context the present study has been conducted. Mean performance of the 55 genotypes of cucumber was carried out during Summer, 2022 at College of Horticulture, Bagalkot, Karnataka, India. The investigation consisted of 55 cucumber genotypes collected from various parts of India and experiment was laid out in RCB Design. The results indicated the highly significant variation among the genotypes for all the characters studied viz., nodes up to first female flower, days to first female flower, days to first harvest, fruit length (cm), fruit diameter (cm), number of fruits per vine, average fruit weight (g) and fruit yield per vine (kg). Means of genotypes varied greatly for several traits, indicating the higher magnitude of variability. Based on the yield parameters, V-5, V-1 and V-6 were superior among the 55 genotypes studied. For earliness parameters, V-17(14)-B-16 and V-4 were superior to fetch the early maturity of the crop.','Cucumber, mean performance, variability, earliness, yield','The main aim of the crop improvement is to improve yield, hence selection of the genotypes places an very important role. Selection of parents for hybridisation programme plays an important role in crop improvement and mean performance plays an very important role. Based on the yield parameters, V-5, V-1 and V-6 were superior among the 55 genotypes studied. For earliness parameters, V-17(14)-B-16 and V-4 were superior to fetch the early maturity of the crop. These genotypes can be used in the future breeding programme to serve as the best parents for earliness and yield characters.','-','Impa H. R., Ravindra Mulge, S.C. Evoor, Namita Raut and Raveendra S. Jawadagi (2023). Mean performance studies for earliness and yield parameters in cucumber (Cucumis sativus L.). Biological Forum – An International Journal, 15(10): 1464-1469.'),(7943,'168','Response of Finger Millet to Nano Nitrogen and Nano Zinc for Enhancing Productivity','Sneha M.A., Mudalagiriyappa and Vasanthi B.G.','Response-of-Finger-Millet-to-Nano-Nitrogen-and-Nano-Zinc-for-Enhancing-Productivity-Sneha-MA-271.pdf','',1,'Plant nutrition is critical for increased development and productivity. Nitrogen and zinc are the most limiting macro and micro nutrient that determines the crop productivity. Foliar application of these nutrients is a well-known strategy to abate acute deficiency at any crop growing stage. Recent developments in the field of nano-technology such as spraying of nano-urea and nano-zinc in combination with conventional fertilizers enhances crop growth and productivity. A field experiment was conducted at Dryland Agriculture project, UAS, GKVK, Bengaluru during Kharif 2021 and 2022 to study the effect of nano-N and nano-Zn on growth and productivity of finger millet. The experiment was laid out in RCBD with factorial concept and replicated thrice. The experiment consists of 18 treatments with four levels of nitrogen (A1: No nitrogen, A2: 50% RDN, A3: 75% RDN and A4: 100% RDN) and four methods of fertilizer application (B1: Soil application of zinc, B2: Foliar application of nano nitrogen @ 35 and 55 DAS, B3: Foliar application of nano zinc @ 35 and 55 DAS and B4: Foliar application of nano nitrogen and nano zinc @ 35 and 55 DAS) along with two control. For all the treatments, phosphorus and potassium were applied as per standard recommendations. The results revealed that application of 100 per cent RDN along with spraying of nano-N and nano-Zn twice at 35 and 55 DAS recorded significantly higher growth parameters viz., plant height, total dry matter production, leaf area index and crop growth rate at all the growth stages. Similarly, significantly higher grain yield (3453 kg ha-1) and straw yield (5048 kg ha-1) was recorded with application of 100 per cent RDN along with spraying of nano-N and nano-Zn and was on par with the application of 75 percent RDN with spraying of nano-N and nano Zn twice (3449 kg ha-1 and 5035 kg ha-1, respectively). Thus, application of 75% RDN with spraying of nano-N and nano-Zn was found to be useful in enhancing the productivity of finger millet. ','Finger millet, Nano nitrogen, Nano zinc, RDN','Foliar spray of nano nitrogen and nano zinc proved extremely efficient in increasing growth and yield of finger millet. Application of 100 % RDN along with spraying of nano-N and nano-Zn increased growth parameters and was on par with application of 75% RDN with spraying of nano-N and nano-Zn. \r\nThe results of the study revealed that, application of 75% RDN along with foliar application of nano nitrogen and nano zinc @ 2 ml l-1 at 35 and 55 DAS recorded higher finger millet grain yield compared to RDF. Thus, application of nutrients matching the crop growth need has increased productivity and also helped to reduce the use of conventional fertilizers. \r\n','-','Sneha M.A., Mudalagiriyappa and Vasanthi B.G. (2023). Response of Finger Millet to Nano Nitrogen and Nano Zinc for Enhancing Productivity. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 15(10): 1470-1477.'),(7944,'168','Evaluation of Cultivars and Date of Sowing on Yield Response against Bipolaris sorokiniana (Sacc.) caused Spot Blotch Disease of Wheat (Triticum aestivumL.) in Bihar','Uday Kumar, C.S. Azad, Sanjeev Kumar, S.K. Sharma, Ravi Ranjan Kumar and Ruby Rani','Evaluation-of-Cultivars-and-Date-of-Sowing-on-Yield-Response-against-Bipolaris-sorokiniana-(Sacc.)-caused-Spot-Blotch-Disease-of-Wheat-(Triticum-aestivumL.)-in-Bihar-Uday-Kumar-272.pdf','',1,'The spot blotch disease caused by Bipolaris sorokiniana (Sacc.) Shoemaker, is one of the most important foliar fungal disease of wheat crop. This disease appears in almost all wheat growing regions of world including the state of Bihar in India constantly lead to substantial yield reduction, posing a considerable constraint on wheat production in the region. Especially witness condition of Bihar faced to more vulnerable to spot blotch disease of wheat so, present study, conducted during the winter (Rabi) seasons of 2021-22 and 2022-23 at the research farm of Bihar Agricultural University in Sabour, Bhagalpur, aimed to assess the impact of different wheat cultivars (DBW-316, PBW-833, DBW-187, HD-3118, HI 1563, PBW-723 and PBW-179) sown on two different dates (5th November, as timely and 10th December, as late sown). The objective was to understand the influence of sowing times on yield potential and determine the optimal timing for sowing to mitigate the effects of spot blotch disease. Disease incidence, per cent disease index (PDI), AUDPC was lowest and highest grain yield (q/ha) was for (D1) timely sown treatment (5th Nov. 2021-22 and 2022-23) as compared to (D2) late sown (10th Dec. 2021-22 and 2022-23). No disease appearance at flowering stage in timely sown condition so PDI was not recorded. At hard dough stage, the minimum DI and PDI (34.61 & 35.40% and 5.74 & 6.52%) were recorded with PBW-833 at timely sown condition, respectively. In case of D2, the minimum DI and PDI (62.07 & 62.79 % and 36.30 and 37.04 %) from PBW-833 recorded, respectively. The minimum AUDPC (42.14 and 48.51) recorded from PBW-833, respectively at timely sown cultivars. However, the maximum AUDPC (604.07 and 659.81) was recorded from genotype PBW DBW-316 and minimum AUDPC (288.43 and 315.65) recorded at late sown condition, respectively. The maximum grain yield (41.83 and 41.13q/ha) was recorded from PBW-833 at timely sown cultivars whereas, maximum grain yield (32.58 and 32.37 q/ha) recorded from PBW-833 at late sown cultivars, respectively. These findings underscore the importance of timely sowing in disease management and crop productivity, with PBW-833 emerging as a promising genotype. ','Wheat, Spot blotch, Date of Sowing, Cultivars and Yield','Timely-sown genotypes consistently exhibited lower disease incidence and percent disease index compared to late-sown ones across both years 2021-22 and 2022-23. At flowering stage, all genotypes were disease-free. PBW-833 showed the minimum disease indices at different growth stages, resulting in higher grain yields and lower AUDPC. In contrast, DBW-316 exhibited higher disease indices and lower yields, especially in late-sown conditions. These findings underscore the importance of timely sowing in disease management and crop productivity, with PBW-833 emerging as a promising genotype.','-','Uday Kumar, C.S. Azad, Sanjeev Kumar, S.K. Sharma, Ravi Ranjan Kumar and Ruby Rani (2023). Evaluation of Cultivars and Date of Sowing on Yield Response Against Bipolaris sorokiniana (Sacc.) caused Spot Blotch Disease of Wheat (Triticum aestivum L.) in Bihar. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 15(10): 1478-1484.'),(7945,'170','In vitro efficacy of Microbial Consortia against Tomato Root Knot Nematode [Meloidogyne incognita (Kofoid and White)]','Nivedita, Sumangala Koulagi, Prashantha A., Vijaya Kumar Rathod, Vijaymahantesh and Iranna Hejjegar ','In vitro efficacy of Microbial Consortia Against Tomato Root Knot Nematode [Meloidogyne incognita (Kofoid and White)]-Nivedita-1.pdf','',1,'Tomato (Solanum lycopersicum L.) is known as the poor man’s orange and it is extensively grown worldwide. It is affected by various diseases like fungal, bacterial, viral and nematodes. Among these, root knot nematodes (RKN) which is the most important plant parasitic pathogen that causes significant crop loss alone or in combination with fungal and bacterial wilt pathogens. Unscientific usage of pesticides aggravates densely virulent strains, apart from polluting the environment and causing human health hazards. The use of different combinations of biocontrol agents with respect to consortia is effectively managed with multicidal action against the target pathogen. In this present investigation, the study was carried out to explore the activities of microbial consortia against root-knot nematode of tomato under in vitro conditions. The experiment was carried out at the Department of Plant Pathology, KRCCH, Arabhavi. The 10 treatments were studied with different combinations of biocontrol agents. The results of our investigation show that among the tested bioagents T9 (Trichoderma harzianum + Metarhizium anisophile + Purpureocillium lilacinum + Beauveria bassiana + Bacillus subtilis + Pseudomonas fluorescens) exhibited the minimum egg hatching per cent of 55.65 at 96 hours of exposure period when compared to T10 (untreated control) recorded 11.85 per cent of egg hatching.','Bio-control agents, egg hatching, microbial consortia, root knot nematode','The present findings have demonstrated that the different bioconsortia treatments showed the inhibitory effect on root knot nematode egg hatching under in vitro condition. All tested consortia treatments recorded minimum egg hatching per cent (55.50-85.00) over untreated control (97.50) at 96 hours after incubation. Among the treatments, minimum egg hatching per cent was recorded inT9 (T. harzianum + B. subtilis + P. lilacinum + B. bassiana + M. anisophile + P. fluroscence) with 55.50 per cent over T10 (untreated control) with 97.50 per cent. ','-','Nivedita, Sumangala Koulagi, Prashantha A., Vijaya Kumar Rathod, Vijaymahantesh and Iranna Hejjegar (2023). In vitro efficacy of Microbial Consortia Against Tomato Root Knot Nematode [Meloidogyne incognita (Kofoid and White)]. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 15(12): 01-04.'),(7946,'168','Genetic Variability, Heritability and Genetic Advance for Quality Traits in Groundnut (Arachis hypogaea L.)','K.A. Wagh, M.S. Kamble, S.J. Waghmare, A. R. Thakre and M.S. Mote','Genetic-Variability,-Heritability-and-Genetic-Advance-for-Quality-Traits-in-Groundnut-(Arachis-hypogaea-L.)-KA-Wagh-273.pdf','',1,'Quality traits and mineral composition play crucial role in determining the nutritional quality of groundnut. Health related problems increased the interest of researchers to increase the mineral contents and improve the quality traits in groundnut. Groundnut oil is recognized as a health-promoting oil with the potential to lower the risk of cardiovascular diseases. Additionally, it supports a more favorable ratio of high-density lipoprotein (HDL) to low-density lipoprotein (LDL) and lowers levels of triacylglycerol and blood glucose. In this experiment, thirty one genotypes of groundnut were evaluated for quality traits to study the genetic variability parameters. Analysis of variance indicated that the existence of significant differences among the genotypes for different characters. This indicating a considerable amount of genetic variability among the genotypes evaluated. High GCV and PCV values were observed for the trait like oleic acid. While, low GCV and PCV were observed for zinc, iron, protein and oil content. High heritability was observed for oleic acid, zinc, iron, protein and oil content. High heritability coupled with high genetic advance as per cent of mean was observed for oleic acid which indicates the presence of additive gene action and it would be more rewarding to bring quality improvement in groundnut.','Groundnut, GCV, PCV, Heritability, Genetic advance','From the present investigation, the results of the analysis of variance revealed significant differences among the genotypes for traits like oil content, protein content, oleic acid, iron content and zinc content. The magnitude of genotypic coefficient of variation (GCV) were lower than phenotypic coefficient of variation (PCV) for all the characters under study. Highest genotypic and phenotypic coefficient of variation was recorded for the character oleic acid. Highest estimate of heritability was recorded for all the characters. High magnitude of heritability (b.s.) along with high genetic advance as a per cent mean observed in oleic acid. This indicates that this character was under additive genetic action and selection for genetic improvement will be effective and may contribute to quality improvement in groundnut.','-','K.A. Wagh, M.S. Kamble, S.J. Waghmare, A. R. Thakre and M.S. Mote (2023). Genetic Variability, Heritability and Genetic Advance for Quality Traits in Groundnut (Arachis hypogaea L.). Biological Forum – An International Journal, 15(10): 1485-1489.'),(7947,'168','Effect of Fructooligosaccharide Supplementation on Growth and Survival of Bacillus coagulans IS2 in Green Tea and Black Tea Infusion','Nikkam I.T., Poshadri A., Deshpande H.W. and Machewad G.M.','Effect-of-Fructooligosaccharide-Supplementation-on-Growth-and-Survival-of-Bacillus-coagulans-IS2-in-Green-Tea-and-Black-Tea-Infusion-Nikkam-IT-274.pdf','',1,'Fructooligosaccharide is a dietary fibre known to improve the survivability of probiotic microorganisms by digesting in the large intestine by the probiotics and species like Lactobacillus and Bifidobacterium are incapable of colonizing the large intestine as they are sensitive to acidity and bile salts. Being the most consumed beverage after water, tea can function as a carrier of probiotics for large amounts of the population. The objective of this study is to investigate the effect of Fructooligosaccharide on the growth and survival of B. coagulans in tea infusion. Green tea infusion (GTI) and black tea infusion (BTI) were divided into three combinations containing 1) 0% sucrose + 0% FOS; 2) 5% (w/v) sucrose; 3) 5% (w/v) sucrose + 5% (w/v) FOS. The Total polyphenol content (TPC) and Ferric-reducing antioxidant power (FRAP) of the combinations were determined and B. coagulans was inoculated into each group, and incubated at 45°C for 24 hours. Samples were collected every 6 hours to determine the log CFU/ml and average growth rate (log CFU/ml/hr). GTI exhibited higher TPC, and FRAP compared to BTI. Notably, the viable count of B. coagulans was 63.60% higher in BTI compared to GTI in the first combination, indicating a negative correlation (R² = 0.70) between TPC and B. coagulans’ growth rate. Supplementation of FOS resulted in a 36.07% increase and a 4.32% increase in the viable count of B. coagulans in green tea and black tea formulations respectively which were positive correlations (R² = 0.97, R² = 0.98). Therefore, incorporating FOS into tea infusions, especially in green tea can enhance the growth and viable count of Bacillus coagulans suggesting potential applications in synbiotic beverages combining the antioxidant benefits of tea polyphenols.','Bacillus coagulans IS2, Fructooligosaccharides (FOS); Probiotic, Prebiotic; Synbiotic, Tea, FRAP','In conclusion, a highly positive correlation was observed between the supplementation of FOS and the average growth rate of Bacillus coagulans IS2 in both green and black tea formulations. Interestingly, a moderately negative correlation was observed between polyphenol content and the growth rate of B. coagulans IS2 in tea formulations. The growth-enhancing effect of FOS on B. coagulans was more pronounced in green tea where the probiotic Bacillus coagulans might have utilized the prebiotic FOS as a substrate to compensate for the growth hindering effect of polyphenols. Therefore, incorporating FOS into tea infusions, especially in green tea can compensate for the inhibitory effect of polyphenols and enhance the growth and viability of Bacillus coagulans suggesting important implications for the development of functional beverages, as tea-based probiotic and synbiotic products could offer health benefits associated with both synbiotics and antioxidants of tea. However, further detailed studies may be required to determine an underlying mechanism to establish the effect of polyphenols on the growth of B. coagulans IS2. ','-','Nikkam I.T., Poshadri A., Deshpande H.W. and Machewad G.M. (2023). Effect of Fructooligosaccharide Supplementation on Growth and Survival of Bacillus coagulans IS2 in Green Tea and Black Tea Infusion. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 15(10): 1490-1497.'),(7948,'170','In vitro propagation of Blepharis sindica ex T.Anders','Rajneesh Sharma and Shikha Roy','In-vitro-propagation-of-Blepharis-sindica-ex-T.Anders-Rajneesh-Sharma-2.pdf','',1,'Blepharis sindica-T. Anders is a vulnerable species whose natural population is decreasing due to unscientific exploitation, scanty rainfall and habitat destruction. It has been notified as threatened species in the report of UNDP -CCF II Project and given A2cd Vulnerable category as per IUCN red list. So, this plant needs urgent efforts for conservation including both in situ and ex situ. In ex situ conservation the seeds were utilized first as an explant to develop complete seedling plants. Seeds were excised from fruit capsule after removing coat and inoculated in Basal modified MS medium supplemented with charcoal and ms medium supplemented with plant growth regulators, NAA, 2,4-D. Complete seedling plants and callus was achieved from seeds in basal modified MS and ms supplemented with 2,4-D, combination of 0.5mg/l NAA, 1.0mg/lBAP supplemented MS medium. Callus initiation and callus multiplication achieved from inoculation of cotyledons and subcultured callus parts. Callus initiation achieved by inoculation of cotyledons in combination of 0.5mg/l NAA, 1.0mg/l BAP, with only 1.0 mg/l 2,4-D supplemented MS medium. Multiplication of callus achieved from subculturing of callus parts in MS medium supplemented with 1.0mg/l&2.0 mg/l BAP. Enormous rooting and shooting along with leaf development showed on basal modified MS media. Better responses of rooting and shooting along with leaf development showed on Basal modified MS media supplemented with charcoal as compare to basal modified MS medium devoid of charcoal from seeds. Browning was also observed from cultures due to which callus appeared with brown colour after few days of subculture.','Tissue culture, Blepharis sindica, MS medium, Growth regulators','Through this research work it is concluded that addition 2,4-D or NAA and BAP in nutrient medium(modified ms) are responsible for callus initiation from seed and cotyledonary part of seedling plant. Due to hard coat around seeds in Blepharis sindica, it is not easy to initiate response from seed, so a cut by scalpel is required in coat to remove it and seed isolation. Basal MS with little change is sufficient to initiate and develop complete seedling plants with roots, epicotyl, hyhpocotyl and leaves in whorl of four which is necessary for its conservation due to its vulnerable status and typical habitat. Callus multiplication can be achieved with low concentration of BAP in ms medium from subculturing of callus parts and cotyledonary parts.','-','Rajneesh Sharma and Shikha Roy (2023). In vitro propagation of Blepharis sindica ex T.Anders. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 15(12): 05-08.'),(7949,'168','Bioefficacy of Bioagents Against Sarocladium oryzae','Soundarya Nayak, Gowdar S.B., Ashwathanarayana D.S., Amaresh Y.S. and Badariprasad P.R. ','Bioefficacy-of-Bioagents-Against-Sarocladium-oryzae-Soundarya-Nayak-275.pdf','',1,'Sheath rot disease of rice (Sarocladium oryzae) has become a consequential production constraint in all rice growing countries. The pathogen was isolated from the sheath rot infected rice plants. The antagonistic potential of the bioagents were tested against S. oryzae under laboratory condition. The outcomes of the experiments unveiled that among the bio-agents tested, Pseudomonas fluorescens (BGREB73) was found to be more effective and statistically significant over other bio-control agents in inhibiting mycelial growth (87.20%) followed by T. harzianum (T-13) (84.12%) in dual culture over the control. ','Rice, sheath rot, Sarocladium oryzae, bioagents','Among all the bio-agents tested Pseudomonas fluorescens (BGREB73) stood out as being more potent and statistically significant in comparison to other bio-control agents with maximum per cent inhibition of 87.20 per cent.','-','Soundarya Nayak, Gowdar S.B., Ashwathanarayana D.S., Amaresh Y.S. and Badariprasad P.R. (2023). Bioefficacy of Bioagents Against Sarocladium oryzae. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 15(10): 1498-1500.'),(7950,'168','Pathogenicity and Management of Meloidogyne graminicola in Rice \r\n(Oryza sativa L.), variety, Pusa Bhagwati under Bihar Conditions\r\n','Gajja Bharath Goud, Nishi Keshari, Sethu Lakshmi S. and Palukuru Usha ','Pathogenicity-and-Management-of-Meloidogyne-graminicola-in-Rice-GAJJA-BHARATH-GOUD-276.pdf','',1,'Rice (Oryza sativa L.) is one of the most widely grown crops in the world, and is a staple food for more than half of the global total population. Root-knot nematodes (RKNs), Meloidogyne spp., especially M. graminicola, seem to be significant rice pests, which makes them the most economically important plant-parasitic nematode in this crop. The current investigation was conducted to ascertain the effect of initial population densities of Meloidogyne graminicola on the root-knot development, nematode multiplication and plant growth characters of rice seedlings under earthen pot conditions. When the inoculum density level increased from 10J2/pot to 10000J2/pot, vegetative and reproductive characters of the plant decreased significantly and nematode multiplication parameters increased significantly. The maximum galls per root system, eggs and juveniles per egg mass, nematode population/200cc soil, root knot index and number of females per gall were enhanced significantly with increase in inoculum level and maximum was at 10000 J2 /pot. The fungal biocontrol agent, Trichoderma viride @ 5g, 6g, 7g, 8g, 9g and 10g/pot with carbofuran @ 2kg a.i./ha as treated check and another untreated check in 1 kg soil were taken and the effect was reported on the development of plant and nematode multiplication parameters, keeping two sets as pre and post application of T. viride, one week before and after germination, respectively. Although carbofuran treated plants have shown significantly effective treatment but among the different doses of T. viride in both pre and post treatment, the highest dose10g/pot has given the maximum growth parameters and minimum nematode multiplication parameters in both pre and post treatments. When we compared the results in both pre and post treatments, it was revealed that in all the characters, the increase was higher in pretreatments than the post treatments.','Trichoderma viride, Meloidogyne graminicola, Oryza sativa, Pusa Bhagwati, carbofuran','In the present study concluded that as the inoculum level increased plant growth parameters decreased significantly and nematode multiplication parameters increased significantly and management of M. graminicola can be done by increasing the T. viride level apart from the chemical control.','-','Gajja Bharath Goud, Nishi Keshari, Sethu Lakshmi S. and Palukuru Usha (2023). Pathogenicity and management of Meloidogyne graminicola in Rice (Oryza sativa L.), variety, Pusa Bhagwati under Bihar Conditions. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 15(10): 1501-1507.'),(7951,'158','Twenty-five Years of Succession in Isolated\r\nMontane Red Spruce Communities at Twelve Sites\r\nin the Central Appalachians','Harold S. Adams, Adam W. Rollins, Steven L. Stephenson','6 JNBR.pdf','',4,'Study plots (each 0.1 ha) were established and then sampled in 12 isolated red spruce communities in the Central Appalachians during the period of 1982 to 1985. These same plots were resampled >25 years later in June 2011 to assess the successional changes that had taken place. Collectively, the calculated importance value for red spruce (Picea rubens) decreased for the large tree (>10 cm DBH [diameter at breast height]) stratum (-11.1) but increased for the small tree (>2.5 cm but >10 cm DBH) stratum (+15.5). The relative density of red spruce increased in the sapling strata (+49.4%), but decreased for seedlings (-19.9%). Species richness of shrubs decreased from 12 species (2.2/site) to seven (1.8/site). Percent ground cover of rock and course woody debris were essentially unchanged (+1.2% and -0.3%, respectively), while percent ground cover of bryophytes and herbaceous plants decreased (-14.8% and -9.4%, respectively). Although red spruce decreased in the large tree stratum, the species experienced notable increases in the small tree and sapling strata. In many instances, small trees and saplings of red spruce have become well established in canopy gaps, often forming dense thickets, indicating the potential for red spruce-dominated communities to persist at these sites. These data suggest that these communities do not yet show any evidence of a negative response to global climate change, which has implications for forest management at higher elevations in the Central Appalachians.','Coniferous forests, forest stand dynamics, Picea rubens, remnant populations, subalpine, successional change','-','-','Adams HS, Rollins AW, Stephenson SL. 2023. Twenty-five years of succession in isolated montane red spruce communities at twelve sites in the central appalachians. J New Biol Rep 12 (1): 24 – 36.'),(7952,'158','New Distribution Report of a Rare ‘Lined Supple Skink’, Lygosoma Lineata (Gray, 1839) (Squamata: Scincidae: Lygosominae) in Easten Vidarbha Region of Maharashtra','Vivek Bawankule, Sudhir Bhandarkar','7_JNBR_12_1_2023.pdf','',4,'Of all the living reptiles, lizards are without a doubt the most numerous. They have also drawn the interest of many herpetologists, who have devoted their studies to elucidating the realities of lizard existence. The majority of lizards are small, have a limited ability to move regionally, and become endemic to specific places. The genus Lygosoma, which has nine species in India, five of which are endemic, belongs to the family Scincidae, which is the biggest group of lizards. A significant diversity of reptiles can be found in Maharashtra, particularly in the Bhandara, Gondia, Chandrapur, and Gadchiroli Districts. However, there is little scientific data available about the presence of the reptilian fauna, and there is no information available about the diversity of skinks. For the first time, authors in the current research investigate the Lined Supple Skink Lygosoma lineata (Gray, 1839) from the Umared (Nagpur) and Bhandara districts of Maharashtra. It was regarded as the new distribution report for the species according to an examination of the literature that was accessible. This species can be found throughout peninsular India and is listed as a \'Least Concern\' species on the IUCN Red List of Threatened Species.','New Distribution, Rare, Lined Supple Skink, Lygosoma, Eastern Vidarbha, Maharashtra','-','-','Bawankule V, Bhandarkar S. 2023. New Distribution Report of a Rare ‘Lined Supple Skink’, Lygosoma Lineata (Gray, 1839) (Squamata: Scincidae: Lygosominae) in Easten Vidarbha Region of Maharashtra. J New Biol Rep 12 (1): 37 – 40.'),(7953,'158','Twenty-five Years of Succession in Isolated Montane Red Spruce Communities at Twelve Sites in the Central Appalachians','Adams HS, Rollins AW, Stephenson SL.','6 JNBR.pdf','',4,'-','-','-','-','-'),(7954,'168','Detection of Epistasis for Reproductive and Maturity Traits in Maize (Zea mays L.) from Generation Mean Analysis','Krantikumar H. Patil and R.C. Mahajan','Detection-of-Epistasis-for-Reproductive-and-Maturity-Traits-in-Maize-(Zea-mays-L.)-from-Generation-Mean-Analysis-Krantikumar-H-Patil-277.pdf','',1,'The experimental material comprised of six generations of the crosses IC-328883 x IC-541068, IC-328953 x GPM-210, IC-326865 x GPM-470, GPM-470 x GPM-405 and IC-274556 x GPM-210 in maize. The role of gene action and interactions in the inheritance of reproductive and maturity traits in maize was examined through generation’s means analysis. Significant differences among generation means were indicated. Chi square values were significant for all the crosses for all traits according to a joint scaling test except in the cross IC-274556 x GPM-210 for days to 50% tasseling and days to maturity. Six parameters model was applied to accommodate the digenic epistatic interactions. The crosses viz IC-328883 x IC-541068, IC-328953 x GPM-210 and GPM-470 x GPM-405 exhibited positive significant additive x additive type of interaction was observed in the inheritance of the trait days to 50% tasseling. The crosses viz IC-328883 x IC-541068, IC-328953 x GPM-210 exhibited positively significant additive x additive type of interaction was present in the inheritance of days to 50% silking and maturity traits. Duplicate type of epistasis was observed in all the crosses and traits, except GPM-470 x GPM-405 for days to maturity, and IC-274556 x GPM-210 for 50% tasseling and maturity traits exhibited complementary type of epistasis. Complementary and duplicate gene interactions appeared operative in the inheritance of silking and maturity traits. Duplicate gene interactions were seen functioning in controlling 50 % tasseling in most of the crosses. These traits can be selected and utilizing selection purpose for the crop improvement because these traits are fixable due to additive x additive type of gene interaction. These traits were utilized for the selection of elite genotypes/ segregants for the development of variety. While several studies in maize have demonstrated the important role of epistasis plays in trait expression, there are currently no precise genetic models to test and estimate it. Epistasis plays a major role in both the growth and development of plants as well as the inheritance of quantitative traits, as demonstrated by recent studies using molecular markers. Therefore, it would make more sense to look for epistasis and maximize its application in the creation of promising cultivars for target environments than to attribute it to residual variance after dominance and additive effects have been taken into consideration.','Generation mean analysis, Reproductive, Maturity traits, Gene action, Maize','Duplicate type of epistasis was observed in all the crosses and traits, except GPM-470 x GPM-405 for days to maturity, and IC-274556 x GPM-210 for 50% tasseling and maturity traits exhibited complementary type of epistasis. Especially duplicate type of epistasis observed in days to 50% silking trait inheritance. Complementary and duplicate gene interactions appeared operative in the inheritance of silking and maturity traits. Duplicate gene interactions were seen functioning in controlling 50 % tasseling in most of the crosses. ','-','Krantikumar H. Patil and R.C. Mahajan (2023). Detection of Epistasis for Reproductive and Maturity Traits in Maize (Zea mays L.) from Generation Mean Analysis. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 15(10): 1508-1514.'),(7955,'158','Twenty-five Years of Succession in Isolated Montane Red Spruce Communities at Twelve Sites in the Central Appalachians','Harold S. Adams†,1 Adam W. Rollins2* , Steven L. Stephenson3','6 JNBR.pdf','',1,'Study plots (each 0.1 ha) were established and then sampled in 12 isolated red spruce communities in the Central Appalachians during the period of 1982 to 1985. These same plots were resampled >25 years later in June 2011 to assess the successional changes that had taken place. Collectively, the calculated importance value for red spruce (Picea rubens) decreased for the large tree (>10 cm DBH [diameter at breast height]) stratum (- 11.1) but increased for the small tree (>2.5 cm but >10 cm DBH) stratum (+15.5). The relative density of red spruce increased in the sapling strata (+49.4%), but decreased for seedlings (-19.9%). Species richness of shrubs decreased from 12 species (2.2/site) to seven (1.8/site). Percent ground cover of rock and course woody debris were essentially unchanged (+1.2% and -0.3%, respectively), while percent ground cover of bryophytes and herbaceous plants decreased (-14.8% and -9.4%, respectively). Although red spruce decreased in the large tree stratum, the species experienced notable increases in the small tree and sapling strata. In many instances, small trees and saplings of red spruce have become well established in canopy gaps, often forming dense thickets, indicating the potential for red spruce-dominated communities to persist at these sites. These data suggest that these communities do not yet show any evidence of a negative response to global climate change, which has implications for forest management at higher elevations in the Central Appalachians.','Coniferous forests, forest stand dynamics, Picea rubens, remnant populations, subalpine, successional change.',' ','Adams HS, Stephenson SL. 2010. Twenty-five years of succession in the spruce-fir forest on Mount Rogers in Southwestern Virginia. Castanea 75(2):205-210. Adams HS, Stephenson SL, Blasing TJ, Duvick DN. 1985. Growth-trend declines of spruce and fir in mid-Appalachian montane forests. Environmental and Experimental Botany 25:315–325. Byers EA, Vanderhorst JP, Streets BP. 2010. Classification and Conservation Assessment of Upland red Spruce Communities in West Virginia. West Virginia Natural Heritage Program, WVDNR. Elkins, West Virginia. Daubenmire R. 1968. Plant Communities: A Textbook of Plant Synecology. Harper and Row Publishers, New York, New York. Eagar C, Adams MB, eds. 1992. Ecology and Decline of Red Spruce in the Eastern United States. Ecological Studies. Vol. 96. New York: Springer-Verlag. 471p. Ford WM, Stephenson SL, Menze JM, Black DR, Edwards JW. The American Midland Naturalist 152(2):430-438. Geballe, G.T., W.H. Smith, and P.M. Wargo. 1990. Red spruce seedling health: an assessment of acid fog deposition and heavy metal soil contamination as interactive stress factors. Canadian Journal of Forest Research 20: 1680- 1683. Iverson LR, Prasad AM, Matthews SN, Peters M. 2008. Estimating potential habitat for 134 eastern US tree species under six climate scenarios. Forest Ecology and Management 254:390–406. Johnson AH, Cook ER, Siccama TG. 1988. Climate and red spruce growth and decline in the northern Appalachians. Proceedings of the National Academy of Sciences of the United States of America 85(15): 5369-5373. Korstian CF. 1937. Perpetuation of spruce on cut-over and burned lands in the higher southern Appalachian Mountains. Ecological Monographs 7(1): 126-167. Kosiba AM, Schaberg PG, Rayback SA, Hawley GJ. 2018. The surprising recovery of red spruce growth shows links to decreased acid deposition and elevated temperature. Science of the Total Environment 637-638: 1480-1491. Mayfield AE, Hicks JR. 2010. Abundance of red spruce regeneration across spruce hardwood ecotones at Gaudineer Knob, West Virginia. P. 113-125 In Ecology and Management of High Elevation Forests in the Central and Southern Appalachian Mountains, J. S. Rentch, & T. M. Schuler (eds.). U.S. Department of Agriculture, Forest Service, Northern Research Station. McLaughlin SB, Downing DJ, Blassing TJ, Cook ER, Adams HS. 1987. An analysis of climate and competition as contributors to decline of red spruce in high elevation Appalachian forests of eastern United States. Oecologia 72: 487-501. Mielke ME, Soctomah DC, Marsden MA, Ciesla WM. 1986. Decline and mortality of red spruce in West Virginia. United States Department of Agriculture, Forest Service, Forest Pest management, Methods Application Group, Fort Collins, Colorado, Report 86-4. Noss RF, LaRoe ET, Scott JM. 1995. Endangered ecosystems of the United States: a preliminary assessment of loss and degradation. Biological Report 28, National Biological Service, Washington, D.C. Nowacki, G., R. Carr, and M. Van Dyck. 2010. The current status of red spruce in the Eastern United States: Distribution, population trends, and environmental drivers. Ecology and Management of High-Elevation Forests in the Central and Southern Appalachian Mountains. General Technical Report NRS-P-64. Slatyfork, WV: USDA, Forest Service, Northern Research Station. 140-162 p. Pauley TK. 2008. The Appalachian inferno: historical causes for the disjunct distribution of Plethodon nettingi (Cheat Mountain Salamander). Northeastern Naturalist. 15(4):595-606. Rollins AW, Adams HS, Stephenson SL. 2010. Changes in forest composition and structure across the red spruce-hardwood ecotone in the Central Appalachians. Castanea 75(3): 303- 314. Schuler TM, Ford WM, Collins RJ. 2002. Successional dynamics andrestoration implications of a montane coniferous forest in the central Appalachians, USA. Natural Areas Journal 22: 88-98. Shields AR. 1962. The isolated spruce and spruce-fir forest of southwestern Virginia: A biotic study. Knoxville, TN: University of Tennessee. Ph.D. dissertation. Siccama TG, Bliss M, Vogelmann HW.1982. Decline of red spruce in the Green Mountains of Vermont. Bulletin of the Torrey Botanical Club 109:162–168. Walter JA, Neblet JC, Atkins JW, Epstein HE. 2017. Regional- and watershed-scale analysis of red spruce habitat in the southeastern United States: implications for future restoration efforts. Plant Ecology 218:305-315. Watts WA. 1979. Late Quaternary vegetation of central Appalachia and New Jersey coastal plain. Ecological Monographs 49:427-469.',' Adams HS, Rollins AW, Stephenson SL. 2023. Twenty-five years of succession in isolated montane red spruce communities at twelve sites in the central appalachians. J New Biol Rep 12 (1): 24 – 36.'),(7956,'158','New Distribution Report of a Rare ‘Lined Supple Skink’, Lygosoma Lineata (Gray, 1839) (Squamata: Scincidae: Lygosominae) in Easten Vidarbha Region of Maharashtra','Vivek Bawankule1,2, Sudhir Bhandarkar2,3*','7 JNBR.pdf','',1,'Of all the living reptiles, lizards are without a doubt the most numerous. They have also drawn the interest of many herpetologists, who have devoted their studies to elucidating the realities of lizard existence. The majority of lizards are small, have a limited ability to move regionally, and become endemic to specific places. The genus Lygosoma, which has nine species in India, five of which are endemic, belongs to the family Scincidae, which is the biggest group of lizards. A significant diversity of reptiles can be found in Maharashtra, particularly in the Bhandara, Gondia, Chandrapur, and Gadchiroli Districts. However, there is little scientific data available about the presence of the reptilian fauna, and there is no information available about the diversity of skinks. For the first time, authors in the current research investigate the Lined Supple Skink Lygosoma lineata (Gray, 1839) from the Umared (Nagpur) and Bhandara districts of Maharashtra. It was regarded as the new distribution report for the species according to an examination of the literature that was accessible. This species can be found throughout peninsular India and is listed as a \'Least Concern\' species on the IUCN Red List of Threatened Species.','New Distribution, Rare, Lined Supple Skink, Lygosoma, Eastern Vidarbha, Maharashtra',' ','Aengals R, Kumar VMS, Palot MJ. 2011. Updated Checklist of Indian Reptiles. Zoological Survey of India, Chennai, 24pp. Ardesana R, Trivedi B, Jadav R, Jhala R, Joshi P, Bharad M, Ardesana J. 2019. Lined Supple Skink: notes on Lygosoma lineata from Rajkot City, Gujarat, India. Reptile Rap 193. In: Zoo’s Print 34(3): 15-18. Bawankule V, Bhandarkar S, Paliwal G. 2021. First Report of Square Spotted Gecko, Hemidactylus gracilis Blanford, 1870 (Squamata: Sauria: Gekkonidae) from Bhandara District Maharashtra, India. J New Biol Rep 10 (1): 46 – 50. Bawaskar PS, Bawaskar KS. 2016. Herpetofauna Diversity from Khamgaon, district Buldhana (M.S.) Central India, International J. of Life Sciences, 4 (3): 412-418. Bhandarkar SV, Paliwal GT. 2021. Road Kill of Snakes (Squamata: Serpents) On State Highway 276: A Case Study in Protected Forest Area of Deori Forest Range Gondia. J New Biol Rep 10 (1): 7-10. Bhandarkar WR, Paliwal GT, Bhandarkar SV, Kali AA. 2012. Herpetofaunal Diversity at Navegaon National Park, Distt. Gondia Maharashtra. Int. J. Environ. Rehab. and Cons III (1):42-49. Boulenger GA. 1890. The Fauna of British India, Including Ceylon and Burma. Reptilia and Batrachia. Taylor & Francis, London, xviii+541pp. Datta-Roy A, Singh M, Karanth KP. 2014. Phylogeny of endemic skinks of the genus Lygosoma (Squamata: Scincidae) from India suggests an in situ radiation. Journal of Genetics 93(1): 163–167. Deshmukh RV, Deshmukh SA, Badhekar SA, Rewatkar J, Pachare VP, Kawale SB. 2020. First records of albinism or leucism in six species of snakes from central India. Reptiles & Amphibians 26: 174–179. https://doi.org/10.17161/randa.v26i3.14398. Mirza ZA, Sanap RV. 2010. Biodiversity of Aarey milk colony and film city (2007-2009) A report submitted to Government of Maharashtra and Forest Department of Maharashtra. 51p Mirza ZA, Ahmed JJ, Patil S. 2010. Notes on the distribution and natural historyof Lined Supple Skink Lygosoma lineata Gray, 1839 (Sauria: Squmata: Scinidae). Reptile Rap 9: 5–6. Molur S, Walker S. (eds.) 1998. Reptiles of India. Biodiversity Conservation Prioritisation Project (BCPP) India, Endangered Species Project - Conservation Assessment and Management Plan (C.A.M.P.) Workshops. Zoo Outreach Organisation & CBSG, India, Coimbatore, India, 175pp. Narasimmarajan K, Mahato S. 2013. First Record of Lined Supple Skink Lygosoma lineata (Gray, 1839) from Melghat Tiger Reserve, Maharashtra. REPTILE RAP 15,9-10. Paliwal GT, Bhandarkar SV. 2017. Faunistic Diversity of Serpents (Reptilia:Squamata) in Navegaon National Park of NNTR Maharashtra India with special reference to their conservation.Indo American J. of Pharm. Sci 4 (10): 3439-3444. Paliwal GT, Bhandarkar SV. 2017. Life of Snakes. Lambert Academic Publishing, Mauritius. Smith MA. 1935. Fauna of British India including Ceylon and Burma. Reptilia and Amphibia, Volume II, Sauria. Today and Tomorrow’s Printers & Publishers, New Delhi (Indian Reprint 1974, 440pp). Srinivasulu C, Srinivasulu B. 2013a. Lygosoma guentheri. The IUCN Red List of Threatened Species. Version 2014.2. <www. iucnredlist.org>. Downloaded on 01 November 2014. Srinivasulu C, Srinivasulu B. 2013b. Lygosoma lineata. The IUCN Red List of Threatened Species. Version 2014.2. <www.iucnredlist. org>. Downloaded on 01 November 2014. Srinivasulu C, Das I. 2008. The herpetofauna of Nallamala Hills, Eastern Ghats, India: an annotated checklist, with remarks on nomenclature, taxonomy, habitat use, adaptive types and biogeography. Asiatic Herpetological Research 11: 110–131. Srinivasulu C, Seetharamaraju M. 2010. Reply to ‘Further comments on the systematic status of Lygosoma vosmaerii (Gray, 1839)’ by Raju Vyas. Journal of Threatened Taxa 2(1): 675; http:// dx.doi.org/10.11609/JoTT.o2390.675 Stuart SN, Chanson JS, Cox NA, Young BE, Rodrigues ASL, Fischman DL, Waller RW. 2004. Status and trend of amphibian decline and extinction worldwide. Science 306: 1783- 1786. Uetz P, Hošek J. (eds.) 2014. The Reptile Database, http://www. reptile-database.org. Accessed 13 July 2014. Uetz P, Freed P, Hošek J. (eds.) 2018. The Reptile Database. Available online at https://www.reptile-database.org, Accessed on 09 September 2018. Vyas, R. 2014. Notes and comments on the distribution of two endemic Lygosoma skinks (Squamata: Scincidae: Lygosominae) from India. Journal of Threatened Taxa 6 (14): 6726–6732; http://dx.doi.org/10.11609/JoTT.o3906.6726- 32.','Bawankule V, Bhandarkar S. 2023. New Distribution Report of a Rare ‘Lined Supple Skink’, Lygosoma Lineata (Gray, 1839) (Squamata: Scincidae: Lygosominae) in Easten Vidarbha Region of Maharashtra. J New Biol Rep 12 (1): 37 – 40.'),(7957,'168','Nutritional and Anti-nutritional Composition of Passiflora edulis Sims','Dhanalakshmi S., P.K. Nimbolkar, Siddhartha Singh, Tasso Yatung, L. Wangchu and Nangsol Dolma Bhutia','Nutritional-and-Anti-nutritional-Composition-of-Passiflora-edulis-Sims-PK-Nimbolkar-278.pdf','',1,'Passion fruit is rich in nutritional value and health benefits because of its essential components. In north east region advancement work for biochemical traits in Passiflora edulis Sims, is complicated by different climatic and geographical conditions. The present study evaluated Passiflora edulis for nutritional and anti-nutritional characteristics, antioxidant activity (DPPH) and anthocyanin content. Passiflora edulis exhibited higher concentrations of bioactive compounds viz., carbohydrates (18.35±0.33 %), total sugar (13.07±0.06%), reducing sugar (3.65±0.02%), non-reducing sugar (9.42±0.08%), antioxidant DPPH activity (81.92±0.45 %), vitamin-C (64.34 ± 1.45 mg/100g), Anthocyanin (2.51±0.82 mg/g), Total free amino acid (936.57±1.63 mg/100g) and lesser amount of anti-nutritional compounds like phenolic compounds 169.60±0.45 mg/100g and phytic acid 3.03±0.02 mg/100g. The research revealed that Passiflora edulis has a significant amount of bioactive compounds which can be formulated to enrich foods that will have therapeutic effects on human health.','Passiflora species, bioactive compounds, nutraceutical value, antioxidants','Passiflora plants are gaining popularity among consumers worldwide because of their nutritional and organoleptic features. Passion fruit and its by-products are high in polyphenols, carotenoids, vitamins and other nutritional compounds. In the present investigation, the pulp of Passiflora edulis recorded the presence of high amount of nutrients. It was observed that Passiflora edulis pulp has a high antioxidant capacity (vitamin C, DPPH and anthocyanin) and low antinutrient content (phenol and phytic acid), which promotes good health. The findings of the present study can be considered for the preference of Passiflora edulis for value addition as well as fresh consumption as a source of nutrients. There are other potential research opportunities to improve the utilization of passion fruit and its by products for human consumption. The pharmaceutical activity reports of P. edulis plant are generally based on preliminary research, and the models employed lack appropriate standards or reasonable dose. Future research and practice will also focus on the structure-activity relationship and molecular mechanism of bioactive components or crude extracts of P. edulis.','-','Dhanalakshmi S., P.K. Nimbolkar, Siddhartha Singh, Tasso Yatung, L. Wangchu and Nangsol Dolma Bhutia (2023). Nutritional and Anti-nutritional Composition of Passiflora edulis Sims. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 15(10):1515-1519.'),(7958,'168','Effect of Growing Conditions on Growth and Flowering of Calla Lily (Zantedeschia spp.) Cultivars','Sudati Akshitha, P. Prasanth, D. Laxminarayana, Zehra Salma and P. Praneeth Kumar ','Effect-of-Growing-Conditions-on-Growth-and-Flowering-of-Calla-Lily-(Zantedeschia-spp.)-Cultivars-Sudati-Akshitha-279.pdf','',1,'The present investigation on “studies on the effect of growing conditions on growth, flowering of calla lily (Zantedeschia spp.) cultivars” was under taken to determine the best treatment. In this experiment three cultivars were grown under different growing conditions in completely randomized design with factorial concept with nine treatments and three replications during 2021-22 & 2022-23. From the results, it was observed that the maximum plant height at 30, 60 & 90 days after planting (37.46 cm, 51.00 cm & 63.63 cm), minimum days to first flower (62.61 days), stalk length (43.57 cm), stalk diameter (5.87 mm), spathe width (4.89 cm), spadix length (4.91 cm). Whereas, maximum spathe length (12.79 cm) was observed in cv. Piccaso under shade net condition. ','Growing conditions, cultivars, calla lily','Based on the above findings among the interactions in the pooled data cv. Captain murano grown under shade net had performed better with respect to growth and flowering parameters.','-','Sudati Akshitha, P. Prasanth, D. Laxminarayana, Zehra Salma and P. Praneeth Kumar (2023). Effect of Growing Conditions on Growth and Flowering of Calla Lily (Zantedeschia Spp.) Cultivars. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 15(10): 1520-1523.'),(7959,'168','Intervention of Plyometric Training in Varied Motor Fitness','Chandrachooda M., Subraya Prabhu S. and K. Sekarbabu ','Intervention-of-Plyometric-Training-in-Varied-Motor-Fitness-Chandrachooda-M-280.pdf','',1,'The present study was conducted to explore the effect of plyometric training on motor fitness. The male students categorized as novice and trained players (n=25 in each group of age 18-25 years) studying in various colleges of Bengaluru, Karnataka, India during the academic year 2018-2019 were subjected to plyometric training of various types in three alternative sessions per week of one hour per day for 12 weeks at the sports ground of Veterinary College, KVAFSU, Hebbal, Bengaluru-24 from July starting to September end of 2018 and the motor fitness components like speed, explosive power, muscular strength, flexibility, balance, coordination and reaction time were assessed as per standard field tests before and after the training. Novice players showed increase in speed, explosive power, muscle strength, flexibility, balance, coordination and reaction time by 6, 17, 11, 46, 9, 20 and 12 per cent, respectively. While in case of trained players 5, 12, 7, 25, 8, 14 and 8 percent raise were noticed in motor fitness with respect to speed, explosive power, muscle strength, flexibility, balance, coordination and reaction time, respectively. On an average, novice players exhibited 17 per cent improvement in their performance whereas 11 per cent was exhibited by trained players as previously also they had received continuous training for one hour per day. The present study stated that plyometric training is needed for athletes or group sports persons but challenge lies in the type of training for the given sports activity, period of training and measurement of motor fitness. On the whole, the plyometric training provided for both the groups’ novice and trained players significantly contributed to enhancement of motor fitness, thus improving their sports activities.','Plyometric, Novice, Explosive power, Flexibility, Performance','Motor fitness components like speed, agility, balance, coordination, power, reaction time, are the key to all the type of sports activities especially in the competitive modern world. Motor fitness is referred to as skill-related fitness. The present study indicated the use of plyometric training to improve motor skills that surely enhanced the power of novice and trained players in their sports activities.','-','Chandrachooda M., Subraya Prabhu S. and K. Sekarbabu (2023). Intervention of Plyometric Training in Varied Motor Fitness. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 15(10): 1524-1528.'),(7960,'169','Impact of Edible Coating in Extending the Shelf life of Post-harvested Banana under Storage Condition','R. Nischitha, Shravya, Pooja, D.V., Mahesh G. Shetty and S.K. Ghosh','Impact-of-Edible-Coating-in-Extending-the-Shelf-life-of-Post-harvested-Banana-under-Storage-Condition-SK-Ghosh-14.pdf','',1,'As per the report, postharvest losses are increasing; half of the fruits and vegetables lose annually. Extending banana shelf life during export is critical due to their high perishability. This edible coating ensures bananas arrive in optimal condition, enhancing marketability, fetching better prices, and increasing revenue for exporters. The present study aimed to investigate the efficiency of an edible coating on the physico-chemical and bio-chemical qualities of the post-harvest banana (Musa spp.) stored at the room temperature (25±2ᵒC) for 15 days to assess the impact of coating on extending its shelf life by sustaining its nutritive properties. In general, as the storage period increases, the titratable acidity (TA), pH, firmness of the fruits decrease, while weight loss and total soluble solids increases. The current study showed that the edible coating act as a barrier between the physico-chemical nature of fruit and the external environment to preclude the direct interaction with atmospheric gases and microbes. The coating reduced the rate of respiration, color, weight loss, firmness as compared to control. An edible encasing could be a useful substitute to extend the postharvest life and maintain the quality of banana fruit. ','Bio-coating, biochemical analyses, physiological analyses, shelf life, Banana, postharvest','The results of this study show that, in comparison to the control group and other treatment methods, the application of MBT/BC-01 coatings on banana fruit significantly retards a number of factors, including weight loss, decay percentage, total soluble solids, pH, and titrable acidity. This suggests that MBT/BC-01 protects banana fruits better than other coatings. It is noteworthy because it is essential to sustaining the fruit\'s overall quality traits, prolonging its shelf life, and safeguarding its important qualities throughout storage. To summarise, the findings indicate that MBT/BC-01 has promising potential as a preventive intervention to improve the quality and post-harvest life of banana fruits.','-','R. Nischitha, Shravya, Pooja, D.V., Mahesh G. Shetty and S.K. Ghosh (2023). Impact of Edible Coating in Extending the Shelf life of Post-harvested Banana under Storage Condition. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 15(11): 76-81.'),(7961,'168','Comparative Analysis of Spray Dried and Tray Dried Beetroot Powder used as a Raw Material for 3D Food Printing','Madhvi Sharma, Alok Dubey, Pratibha Parihar, S.S. Shukla and Kiran Gupta ','Comparative-Analysis-of-Spray-Dried-and-Tray-Dried-Beetroot-Powder-used-as-a-Raw-Material-for-3D-Food-Printing-Madhvi-Sharma-281.pdf','',1,'This paper presents a detailed comparative analysis of Tray Dried Beetroot Powder (TBRP) and Spray Dried Beetroot Powder (SBRP), with a focus on their physical, biochemical and sensory properties for potential integration into 3D food printing. Comprehensive examination of physical, color and biochemical properties revealed that the spray-dried variant surpassed its tray-dried counterpart in terms of color values, betalain content, particle size and sensory evaluation, positioning it as a superior ingredient for 3D printing. The vibrant color enhanced the palatability of the printed product, while the smaller particle size ensured uniform mixing in the printing ink, preventing nozzle clogging. These findings contribute to a comprehensive understanding of the distinct characteristics of each powder type, aiding in informed decisions for their utilization in 3D food printing applications. ','Spray drying, Tray Drying, Beetroot powder, 3D food printing','In conclusion, this research sheds light on the intricate differences between spray-dried beetroot powder (SBRP) and tray-dried beetroot powder (TBRP) across physicochemical, nutritional, and sensory dimensions for their suitability in 3D food printing applications. Physically, SBRP demonstrated superior solubility, essential for 3D printing applications, and outperformed TBRP in sensory evaluations, scoring higher across various parameters such as color, taste, flavor, aftertaste, mouthfeel, and overall acceptability. The color analysis showcased vibrant and distinct characteristics in SBRP. Nutritionally, both the powders exhibited variations in moisture, protein, total ash, carbohydrates, and betalain content, highlighting the impact of drying methods on nutritional composition. Sensory evaluation revealed a clear preference for SBRP, evident in color, taste, flavor, aftertaste, mouthfeel, and overall acceptability. These findings contribute valuable insights for the development of beetroot-based products, emphasizing the importance of selecting appropriate drying methods based on desired characteristics. The understanding presented in this study serves as a valuable resource for researchers and food technologists seeking to optimize beetroot powder production for enhanced quality and consumer acceptance.','-','Madhvi Sharma, Alok Dubey, Pratibha Parihar, S.S. Shukla and Kiran Gupta (2023). Comparative Analysis of Spray Dried and Tray Dried Beetroot Powder used as a Raw Material for 3D Food Printing. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 15(10): 1529-1531.'),(7962,'168','Morphological Characterization of Foxtail Millet (Setaria italica (L.) Beauv.) Genotypes According to DUS Descriptors','Thakre A.R., Mote M.S., Ban Y.G., Wagh K.A. and Kamble M.S. ','Morphological-Characterization-of-Foxtail-Millet-(Setaria-italica-(L.)-Beauv.)-Genotypes-According-to-DUS-Descriptors-Thakre-AR-282.pdf','',1,': Morphological characterization of 34 foxtail millet genotypes for 18 DUS characters revealed existence of varied polymorphism for the characters. The experimental research was conducted at AICRP on small millets, Zonal Agricultural Research Station, Shenda Park, Kolhapur (M.S.), India during Kharif 2022. It was observed that the plant growth habit erect (23) was dominant over decumbent (11); for leaf colour light green (16) was predominant over dark green (7) followed by green (11); absence of pigmentation at auricle (22) was dominant over presence (12). For leaf attitude, erect (23) was dominating over droopy (11) type; for leaf sheath pubescence and leaf blade pubescence, absence of pubescence was dominant over its presence. Medium (30) flag leaf blade length was dominant over long (3) and short (1); medium (29) flag leaf blade width was dominant over narrow (5). In inflorescence shape oblong(28) was predominant over cylindrical(6). There was observance of hundred per cent bristles on inflorescence among genotypes with length of bristles varying, long (17) was dominant over short (10) and medium (7); for peduncle length medium (29) was dominant over short (2) and long (3). Majority of the genotypes were showing apical sterility. For inflorescence compactness, medium (16) and compact (17) were predominant over lax (1). The majority of the genotypes showed presence of lobes. For ear head length, medium (18) was dominant over long (14) and short (2). In seed colour whitish (15) and yellow (17) was predominant over orange (2); for seed shape oval (25) type was predominant over elliptical (9) type of seed. As the study was based upon the given guidelines of PPV & FRA Act 2001, so each character was thoroughly observed and noted accordingly. Some characters were lightly visible, so taking observations of them was quite tedious job. All the authors contributed equally in this experimental study.','Foxtail millet, DUS, Genotypes, Morphological characterization, Characters','Out of eighteen qualitative characters studied under experiment according to DUS guidelines, presence of inflorescence bristles was unimorphic, plant growth habit, pigmentation at auricle, leaf attitude, leaf sheath and leaf blade pubescence, flag leaf blade width, inflorescence shape, inflorescence apical sterility, inflorescence presence of lobes and seed shape were dimorphic, leaf colour, flag leaf blade length, inflorescence length of bristles, peduncle length, inflorescence compactness, ear head length and seed colour were exhibited trimorphic state of expression.','-','Thakre A.R., Mote M.S., Ban Y.G., Wagh K.A. and Kamble M.S. (2023). Morphological Characterization of Foxtail Millet (Setaria italica (L.) Beauv.) Genotypes According to DUS Descriptors. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 15(10): 1532-1537.'),(7963,'168','Opportunities and Challenges in Forming Farmer-Producer Organizations','Praveen Kote, Vijaylaxmi B.S., Sidramayya and Ashokkumar B.','Opportunities-and-Challenges-in-Forming-Farmer-Producer-Organizations-Praveen-Kote-283.pdf','',1,'Small and marginal farmers’ plays an important role in improvement of Indian agriculture. Several organized strategies are developed in India to connect small and marginal farmers with the market and improve their production and marketing skills. These strategies are helping farmers to improve their livelihood but it is not reaching to all the farmers. Among all the strategies producer\'s organizations are the most widely used model. These are registered organization under national legislation for collective action whose members are farmers, fishermen, weavers, milk producers, rural artisans, craftsmen etc. The objective of PO\'s is sustainable development of rural farmers through collective action assisted by the government and partnerships with academic institutions, research organizations and the commercial sector. FPOs are democratic, voluntary organizations that offer their services to all societal members. It is right platforms for collective action and empowerment of farming community including rural women empowerment, improved technology, provision of extension and consulting services that help farmers, processors, traders, and retailers connect with one another so they can manage supply and demand and access essential business growth resources including market data, input supplies, and transportation services. Despite of many advantages and opportunities the concept of FPO has not taken penetration among farmers though it helps in increasing the economy of farmers it had not achieved the expected success. Further it has inadequate experience with marketing and value addition, insufficient business strategies which were needed for obtaining finance as well. ','Producer organization, volunteer, government agency, opportunities, advantages and challenges','There is a great deal of potential for the Producer Company model to benefit its stakeholders. In the current situation, rural residents have comparatively low levels of understanding of its concept and advantages. Producer Companies will need significant financing support from banking institutions as they establish deeper roots. In order to support their growth, the financial institutions would have to evaluate their financial capacity using novel methods and provide loans.','-','Praveen Kote, Vijaylaxmi B.S., Sidramayya and Ashokkumar B. (2023). Opportunities and Challenges in Forming Farmer-Producer Organizations. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 15(10): 1538-1541.'),(7964,'168','Effect of Different Parameters on Growth of Strains of Cordyceps militeris','Meenakshi Dheer, Kuldeep Sharma, Kuldeep Tiwari and Vishvendra Singh','Effect-of-Different-Parameters-on-Growth-of-Strains-of-Cordyceps-militeris-Meenakshi-Dheer-284.pdf','',1,'Cordyceps militaris is a type of fungus that has a wide range of biological benefits. Unfortunately, the wild species of Cordyceps militaris has become extinct due to overuse. Therefore, researchers conducted a study to determine the best in vitro culture conditions for growing fruit bodies of Cordyceps militaris. The fruiting body contains cordycepin, a compound that has several health benefits for humans. Currently, degeneration is the biggest problem of commercial scale cultivation of Cordyceps militaris. Screening the best bacteria with high productivity and medicinal value is considered a realistic way to solve the degradation problem. The study investigated the growth of Cordyceps militaris mycelium at different temperatures, pH levels and substrates. Seven strains of Cordyceps militaris were collected from Sikar, Rajasthan, out of which three strains were selected for further studies based on their sporulation. The mycelium growth of different strains was studied at different temperatures ranging from 20°C to 40°C. It was found that the mycelium growth of all three strains reached its maximum at 25°C, while the minimum growth was observed at 35°C and 40°C. The researchers also adjusted the liquid media at different pH levels ranging from 5.0 to 8.0 and found that the growth was maximum at an alkaline pH of 5.5 and 6.5 for all three strains, while the minimum growth was observed at a pH of 7.0 and 8.0. Finally, the growth of Cordyceps militaris mycelium in liquid culture media was studied with different substrates, including brown rice, corn, oats, and wheat. The study found that all three strains of Cordyceps militaris grew fastest on brown rice and slowest on wheat and oats substrate.','Cordyceps militaris, mycelial, fruiting body, cordycepin, Sporulation','The growth of C. militaris was found to vary with different temperature ranges, pH levels and substrate choices. The temperature range of 20ºC to 25ºC was conducive to mycelium growth, while the optimum temperature for fruiting body production was 25ºC. A pH level of 5.5 and 6.0 was suitable for growth, but the most favourable pH level for growth was 5.5. Brown rice was found to be the most suitable substrate for the growth of Cordyceps. Out of the 7 strains investigated, C. militaris SC-1, SC-2 and SC-3 were found to be excellent cordycepin production strains that could be used for commercial production purposes.','-','Meenakshi Dheer, Kuldeep Sharma, Kuldeep Tiwari and Vishvendra Singh (2023). Effect of Different Parameters on Growth of Strains of Cordyceps militeris. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 15(10): 1542-1546.'),(7965,'169','Molecular Characterization and Antimicrobial-resistant Pattern of Staphylococcus species Isolated from Pyoderma Cases in Dogs','Makwana P.M., Parmar S.M., Vala J.A., Parasana D.K., Patel D.R., Kalyani I.H. and Solanki J.B. ','Molecular-Characterization-and-Antimicrobial-resistant-Pattern-of-Staphylococcus-species-Isolated-from-Pyoderma-Cases-in-Dogs-Makwana-PM-15.pdf','',1,'Pyoderma is one of the most common bacterial skin condition observed in dogs. Staphylococcus is considered as a predominant bacterial agent associated with bacterial dermatitis in dogs. A study was undertaken to detect involvement of Staphylococcus spp. from pyoderma cases in dogs and to determine in vitro antimicrobial resistant pattern of isolates. Total 37 samples from dogs showing pyoderma were aseptically collected for bacterial isolation. Out of 37 samples, 32 isolates were identified as Staphylococcus spp. (86.48 %) and one as Streptococcus. From 32 Staphylococcus, 13 isolates were identified as Staphylococcus pseudintermedius (40.63 %), 6 as Staphylococcus schleiferi subsp. coagulans (18.75 %), and 5 as Staphylococcus aureus (15.63 %) by PCR. Biochemically, 4 isolates characterized as Staphylococcus hominis (12.5 %), 3 as Staphylococcus capitis (9.38 %) and 1 isolate as Staphylococcus gallinarum (3.12 %). Antibiogram of Staphylococcus isolates showed highest resistance against clindamycin (59.38 %) and cefpodoxime (59.38 %) followed by oxacillin (50 %), neomycin (46.88 %), doxycycline (43.75 %), amoxyclav (34.38 %), enrofloxacin (31.25 %), amikacin (21.88 %) while cefalexin found as least resistant (18.75 %). Screening of methicillin resistant Staphylococcus pseudintermedius (MRSP) is necessary as it pose major challenge for antibiotic resistance. S. pseudintermedius can be transmitted from infected dogs to healthy dogs and humans; it needs attention for both the veterinary and human sector.','Antimicrobial Resistance, Bacteria, Pyoderma, PCR, Staphylococcus','Based on our findings it can be concluded Staphylococcus spp. considered as the main bacterial agent in pyoderma condition of dogs of this region. S. pseudintermedius, S. schleiferi subsp coagulans and S. aureus represent as major causative agents. PCR technique considered as more precise and sensitive technique compared to biochemical methods but non specific isolates can be identified with the biochemical tests. Cefalexin appears appropriate choice of antibiotic against canine pyoderma caused by Staphylococcus for this region. However, bacterial culture and antimicrobial susceptibility testing should always be considered in context to antibiotic resistance and to check sensitivity pattern of particular bacterial agents of geographical area. Possibility of transfer of opportunistic staphylococci between animals and humans and vice versa should be considered and pet owners should be advised to maintain good hygiene practices.','-','Makwana P.M., Parmar S.M., Vala J.A., Parasana D.K., Patel D.R., Kalyani I.H. and Solanki J.B. (2023). Molecular Characterization and Antimicrobial-resistant Pattern of Staphylococcus species Isolated from Pyoderma Cases in Dogs. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 15(11): 82-87.'),(7966,'147','Eco-friendly Management of Leaf spot Disease of Turmeric','D.K. Debata and L.K. Das','Eco-friendly-Management-of-Leaf-spot-Disease-of-Turmeric-LK-Das-143.pdf','',1,'Turmeric growers in Odisha have challenges to manage the loss in yield from 40 to 60 per cent due to leaf spot disease. To increase productivity, bio-agents and chemicals are tested in the field to minimize the incidence of disease. An experiment became conducted to evaluate the efficacy of bio-agents and fungicides viz., seed remedy with T. viride@5gkg-1 of seed & P. fluorescens @10gkg-1 of seed, soil utility of 4kg bio-agents of T. viride & P. fluorescens in 10 qtls of FYM incubated in 30% moisture for 15 days under shed and bio-agents of T. viride & P. flurescens in 10qts of FYM incubated in 30% moisture for 15 days below shed and applying during earthing up, seed treatment with T. viride @5gkg-1 of seed & P. fluorescens@ 10gkg-1 of seed + soil applications of 4kg bio-agents of T. viride & P. flurescens in 10qts of FYM incubated in 30% moisture for 15 days under shed and applying throughout earthing up, Seed remedy with Propiconazole @0.1% + Foliar spray of Propiconazole (0.1%) at 45 & 60DAP for the control of leaf spot disease of turmeric (Curcuma longa) in the nearby research generation transfer Station, G. Udayagiri, Kandhamal, Odisha university of Agriculture and era, Bhubaneswar. Percent disease intensity has been substantially reduced from 42.22 (untreated control) to 14.00 in seed treatment with T. viride @5gkg-1 of seed & P. fluorescens @10gkg-1 of seed + soil application of 4kg bio-agents of T. viride & P. flurescens in 10qtls of FYM incubated in neem cake -cow dung combination @ 1.5qha-1 incubated in 30% moisture for 5 days underneath shed and making use of in the course of earthing up, seed application with T. viride @5gkg-1 of seed & P. fluorescens @10gkg-1 of seed + soil application of 4kg bio-agents of T. viride & P. flurescens in 10qts of FYM incubated in 30% moisture for 15 days under shed and applying throughout earthing up determined to be best treatments with highest yield 14.82 (tha-1) followed by seed treatment with Propiconazole @0.1% + Foliar spray of Propiconazole (0.1%) at 45 & 60DAP with 14.11 tha-1 yield and 16.41 % disease intensity.','Curcuma longa, fungicides, percentage disease intensity, leaf spot, turmeric','Seed treatment with T. viride @5gkg-1 of seed & P. fluorescens @10gkg-1 of seed+ soil application of 4kg bio-agents of T. viride & P. flurescens in in incubated neem cake -cowdung mixture @ 1.5qha-1 incubated in 30% moisture for 5days under shed and apply during earthing up can able to manage the disease upto 64 %.Farmers field research and MLTs are to continued for further research.','-','D.K. Debata and L.K. Das (2022). Eco-friendly Management of Leaf spot Disease of Turmeric. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 14(4a): 830-832.'),(7967,'168','Influence of Weather Parameters (Epidemiology) on Powdery Mildew Disease Development caused by Leveillula taurica','Vineeth M., M.D. Thabrez, Aaqib Ayub, Laxman Navi and Manoj M.','Influence of Weather Parameters (Epidemiology) on Powdery Mildew Disease Development caused by Leveillula taurica-Vineeth M-285.pdf','',1,'Chilli (Capsicum annum L.) is a well known commercial crop in the centre of the world. It is an important spice in developed and developing nations because of its pungency and taste it makes even in household. The current research was conducted at College of Agriculture, Shivamogga, during Rabi 2020-2021 to create a prediction model for chilli powdery mildew disease on susceptible cultivar Byadagi Kaddi with suggested package of practises except for powdery mildew disease management. Prediction of powdery mildew was made one week well in advance. The simple regression equation for 2020-21 was ŷ = 8.32 + 0.95x with R = 0.95741 and R2 = 0.9166. However, it is important to note that the disease was influenced by various weather factors. The studies on effect of weather factors on development of disease revealed that, 5th standard week was highly favourable for initiation and further development of disease and the biggest challenge is to predict the favourable weather conditions and time of appearance of disease and this was employed successfully here.','Powdery mildew, Leveillula taurica, Area under disease progress curve','Prediction of powdery mildew was made one week well in advance. The simple regression equation for 2020-21 was ŷ = 8.32 + 0.95x with R = 0.95741 and R2 = 0.9166. However, it is important to note that the disease was influenced by various weather factors. The studies on effect of weather factors on development of disease revealed that, 5th standard week was highly favourable for initiation and further development of disease. \r\nThere was a positive correlation between the disease incidence and all weather parameters except for minimum relative humidity. The multiple linear regression equation was fitted to the data and the equation arrived for all the weather parameters is Y = -96.73 + 1.38X1 + 5.71X2 + 0.19X3 -1.05X4 + 0.35X5 -0.08X6. \r\nThe apparent rate of infection (r) and Area Under Disease Progress Curve (AUDPC) values were important criteria of epidemics. During 2020-21, highest rate of infection (0.154) was observed between 7th meteorological week. Lowest AUDPC value (10.01) was obtained in the 5th MSW. During crop growth period, AUDPC values increased gradually and reached maximum (400.54) on 11th MSW of 2021 and further, gradually reduced and reached (262.265) on 16th MSW of 2021.\r\n','-','Vineeth M., M.D. Thabrez, Aaqib Ayub, Laxman Navi and Manoj M. (2023). Influence of Weather Parameters (Epidemiology) on Powdery Mildew Disease Development caused by Leveillula taurica. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 15(10): 1547-1553.'),(7968,'168','Behavioural Manipulation of Insect Pests in Integrated Pest Management','Chandana C.R. and Sushila Nadagouda','Behavioural-Manipulation-of-Insect-Pests-in-Integrated-Pest-Management-Chandana-CR-286.pdf','',1,'The threat posed by the usage of insecticides in reducing the damage caused by insect pests has led to an expansion in the potential scope of managing these insect pests by manipulating their behaviour via external and internal cues. Here in this review, we explore techniques for manipulating behaviour through the utilization of natural and/or artificial signals, such as pheromones, kairomones, vibrations, and sounds. It fits seamlessly within IPM\'s multi-disciplinary framework, as it combines biological, ecological, and chemical approaches to pest management. We place particular emphasis on three types of behavioural manipulation methods using stimuli to reduce pest damage: (a) chemical stimuli (e.g., sex pheromones for monitoring, mass trapping, mating disruption, attract and kill), (b) visual stimuli, and (c) host plant volatiles (including attractants, repellents, stimulants, and deterrents). It is crucial to comprehend the fundamental behavioural patterns in insects to effectively manipulate their behaviour, and we delve into the potential of these techniques for environmentally sustainable insect pest management strategies.','Behavioural manipulation, IPM, chemical stimuli, visual stimuli, host plant volatiles, sustainability','The use of broad-spectrum pesticides currently dominates insect pest management. But pest control through the manipulation of pest behaviour by utilizing chemical stimuli, visual stimuli and host plant volatiles is gaining momentum over broad-spectrum insecticides because of the stringent restrictions placed on the use of insecticides around the world. Behavioural manipulation is a highly specific, non-toxic and environmentally sustainable replacement tool in IPM and which are expected to play a pivotal role in high-tech crop protection. A meticulous understanding of the behaviour of the pest and its ecology is a must to develop a successful behavioural manipulation tactic. Ultimately the adoption of a behavioural manipulation strategy for the control of insect pests will depend on farmers\' view of these strategies (e.g., cost when compared to other current management practices). Therefore, during the development of technologies to alter insect behaviour, there is a wider scope for effective collaboration between firms, academics, extension specialists, members of agribusiness, and farmers.','-','Chandana C.R. and Sushila Nadagouda (2023). Behavioural Manipulation of Insect Pests in Integrated Pest Management?. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 15(10): 1554-1561.'),(7969,'168','Effect of NPK Fertilizer Doses on Production and Productivity of Local Rice (Oryza sativa L.) Cultivars of Nagaland under Upland Rainfed Condition','T. Gohain and Sentirenla Changkija and Khrawbor Dkhar','Effect-of-NPK-Fertilizer-Doses-on-Production-and-Productivity-of-Local-Rice-(Oryza-sativa-L.)--Cultivars-of-Nagaland-under-Upland-Rainfed-Condition-Sentirenla-Changkija-287.pdf','',1,'An experiment was carried out during kharif season of 2019 and 2020 in the Agronomy Research farm of SASRD, Medziphema campus, Nagaland. The treatments consisted of factorial combination of four local rice cultivars viz., Gwabilo ssu, Hoikha, Ronga shea, Semvu shea and an improved dwarf variety Sahbhagi dhan (check) with four fertilizer doses viz., F0- 0:0:0 NPK kg ha-1: F1- 30:15:15 NPK kg ha-1: F2-60:30:30 NPK kg ha-1 and F3- 90:45:45 NPK kg ha-1 laid out in a Randomized Block Design with 3 replications. The result of the study showed that the application of 60:30:30 NPK kg ha-1 enhanced the growth and yield of all the four local rice cultivars. While a higher dose of 90:45:45 NPK kg ha-1 resulted in better performance of the improved dwarf variety both in terms of growth and yield being more by nature. The highest value for grain yield, harvest index and benefit cost ratio was recorded with the improved variety Sahbhagi dhan which was statistically at par with the local cultivar Semvu shea. While the highest production efficiency as well as nutrient uptake was recorded for cultivar Semvu shea. Hence from the experiment it can be concluded that the local cultivar Semvu shea with a fertilizer dose of 60:30:30 NPK kg ha-1 is equally efficient with the improved variety Sahbhagi dhan @ 60:30:30 NPK kg ha-1 proving its superiority over the other local cultivars and its capability to perform as good as the improved check variety with adequate nutrient management and care.','Local rice cultivars, Yield, Nutrient uptake, Production efficiency, Economics','Among the local rice cultivars under experiment, cultivar Semvu shea recorded a comparatively higher yield with fertilizer dose @ 60:30:30 NPK kg ha-1 and was also found to be significantly at par with the released check variety under experiment. While application of higher dose of fertilizer @ 90:45:45 NPK kg ha-1 resulted in excess vegetative growth and subsequent lodging and reduction in yield of the cultivars. However, the improved dwarf variety Sahbhagi dhan was recorded to perform better with higher dose of fertilizer i.e., 90:45:45 NPK kg ha-1 resulting in highest yield and highest benefit cost ratio. The highest production efficiency in terms of nutrient uptake was however recorded with cultivar Semvu shea. Hence, from the experimental findings it can be stated that with the application of correct dose of fertilizer cultivar Semvu shea of Phek district has the capability to perform as good as the released check variety whose yield was found to be significantly at par with the released variety.','-','T. Gohain and Sentirenla Changkija and Khrawbor Dkhar (2023). Effect of NPK Fertilizer Doses on Production and Productivity of Local Rice (Oryza sativa L.) Cultivars of Nagaland under Upland Rainfed Condition. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 15(10): 1562-1568.'),(7970,'168','Haplotype Analysis of the Functionally characterized Genes Related to Yield in Rice','Vinay Kumar N., Krishna Sundaram T., Bandana P. and Prasanna Rajesh A.','Haplotype-Analysis-of-the-Functionally-characterized-Genes-Related-to-Yield-in-Rice-Prasanna-Rajesh-A-288.pdf','',1,'Rice is a staple food crop for billions of people and it meets around 20% calorie intake of the human population. Increasing global population, reducing arable land and climate change are limiting the rice production and productivity. In the era of narrowing genetic diversity and increased phenotypic similarity of cultivated germplasm, genomics data are indispensable to tap the genetic potential of the cache germplasm and utilize for crop improvement. In this context, 3K RGP data serves as a mine to dig out the genetic variation of the potential genes. Although several variants of biotic and abiotic stress tolerant genes are meticulously examined that are resistant to various races of pests, variants in yield related genes are disregarded. In this current experiment we have analyzed the haplotypic variants and identified the superior haplotypes for the functionally characterized genes which boost the yield. For the panicle architecture genes OsFIB, and OsGA20ox, H2 and H1 were identified as the superior haplotypes with the mean panicle length of 21.31 cm and 21.44 cm. Similarly for the single plant yield DLT- H8 and DTH2-H8 were found to be superior with a mean phenotypic value of 20.02 g and 17.51 g. These superior haplotypes can be introduced into the modern varieties to increase the genetic advance of the yield traits.','Haplotype based breeding, Rice, Yield, Functionally characterized genes','In the current study the haplotypes were analyzed for the four yield enhancing functionally characterized genes. The integration of identified superior haplotypes into current breeding programs by introgression into the suitable elite genetic backgrounds through the superior haplotype based breeding strategy holds a considerable importance for improvement of the complex yield traits.','-','Vinay Kumar N., Krishna Sundaram T., Bandana P. and Prasanna Rajesh A. (2023). Haplotype Analysis of the Functionally characterized Genes Related to Yield in Rice. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 15(10): 1569-1576.'),(7971,'168','Exotic Plant Production Current Advances, Challenges, and Future Prospects – A Comprehensive Review','Smita Agrawal','Exotic-Plant-Production-Current-Advances,-Challenges,-and-Future-Prospects-A-Comprehensive-Review-Smita-Agrawal-289.pdf','',1,'The cultivation of exotic plants has become a focal point in contemporary agriculture, spurred by a burgeoning interest in distinctive and diverse plant species. This comprehensive review investigates the present developments, hurdles, and future outlook of exotic plant production. We scrutinize cutting-edge cultivation methods, eco-friendly practices, and nascent technologies pivotal to the prosperous growth of exotic plants. Furthermore, we confront the challenges confronting growers and stakeholders within the industry, offering potential solutions. The review culminates with a forward-thinking outlook on the trajectory of exotic plant production and its far-reaching consequences for agriculture, biodiversity conservation, and global markets. In recent years, the cultivation of exotic plants has become a focal point within the agricultural landscape. This surge in interest is driven by a growing fascination with unique and diverse plant species, sought after for their ornamental, medicinal, and culinary uses. This comprehensive review navigates through the dynamic terrain of exotic plant production, aiming to shed light on its current status, challenges, and promising future prospects. ','Plant production, agriculture, environment, exotic plants','In recent years, the cultivation of exotic plants has become a focal point within the agricultural landscape. This surge in interest is driven by a growing fascination with unique and diverse plant species, sought after for their ornamental, medicinal, and culinary uses. ','-','Smita Agrawal (2023). Exotic Plant Production Current Advances, Challenges, and Future Prospects – A Comprehensive Review. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 15(10): 1577-1581.'),(7972,'168','Status of Root Rot (Rhizoctonia solani) of Okra in Zone-III A of Rajasthan','Ranjana Meena, R.P. Ghasolia, Shailesh Godika, Kewal Chand and Monika Meena ','Status-of-Root-Rot-(Rhizoctonia-solani)-of-Okra-in-Zone-III-A-of-Rajasthan-Ranjana-Meenar-290.pdf','',1,'Okra or lady’s finger [Abelmoschus esculentus (L.) Moench] which is known as “Bhindi” in Hindi, is one of the most important summer vegetables of Rajasthan as well as India and belongs to the family Malvaceae. This crop suffers severely from the vagary of diseases caused by fungi and important one is root rot incited by Rhizoctonia solani, which is not only reduces the potency of seed, but also degrades the health beneficial and nutritional quality components of the crop. To know the status of disease incidence, a roving survey was conducted during Zaid 2022 in major okra growing districts (viz., Jaipur, Ajmer, Dausa and Tonk) covering Zone III-A of Rajasthan. A total of 48 fields of okra crop were surveyed covering 16 villages in 8 tehsils. Every surveyed field revealed the presence of root rot and it was ranged from 17.00 to 40.74 per cent with all overall mean of 26.71 per cent. The highest mean disease incidence was observed in Jaipur district (31.64%) followed by Tonk (26.69%), Ajmer (24.81%) and lowest was in Dausa district (23.73%). Conclusively, this disease is gaining importance in okra growing areas and may be alarming situation in coming years. Therefore, growers and researchers may take care of, so that it can be managed in time.','Okra, root rot, survey, disease incidence','The overall average disease incidence of root rot of okra was recorded 26.71 percent in surveyed four districts (Zone-lll A) of Rajasthan. The highest incidence was recorded in Jaipur district (31.64%) while lowest in Dausa district (31.64%).','-','Ranjana Meena, R.P. Ghasolia, Shailesh Godika, Kewal Chand and Monika Meena (2023). Status of Root Rot (Rhizoctonia solani) of Okra in Zone-III A of Rajasthan. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 15(10): 1582-1585.'),(7973,'169','Effect of Feeding Fish Waste Silage Meal on the Immune Status of Piglets','Nithya G., Suresh R. and Sumitha P. ','Effect-of-Feeding-Fish-Waste-Silage-Meal-on-the-Immune-Status-of-Piglets-Suresh-R-16.pdf','',1,'A study was conducted on twelve healthy newborn Large White Yorkshire piglets from two Dams, for three months to assess the effect of feeding fish waste silage meal (FWSM) on the immune response of the animals. These piglets were divided into two groups, namely the T0 (Control) and T1 (Treatment) group. During the creep phase, the control group (T0) was fed a soybean meal-based ration and the treatment group (T1) was fed with FWSM replacing part of the soybean meal-containing ration, while in the grower phase, both groups were fed soybean meal based ration without FWSM supplementation. At the end of the trial, cell-mediated and humoral immunity was assessed by administering PHA-p mitogen and 20% sheep RBC’s, respectively. The results showed a significant difference in cell-mediated immunity, whereas no significant difference was observed in HI response, but compared to the control (T0) group better HI response was noticed in the supplemented (T1) group.','Fish waste, silage, immunity, PHA-p, Sheep RBC','The supplementation of FWSM had a significant improvement in CMI, however, no significant difference was observed in HI response, but a better HI response was noticed in the supplemented group. Improved immune status of piglets is an indicator of health status, good health status is vital for reducing disease occurrence and productivity. Based on the results, 10 percent FWSM supplementation during the creep phase positively impacts piglets immunity without any adverse effects. ','-','Nithya G., Suresh R. and Sumitha P. (2023). Effect of Feeding Fish Waste Silage Meal on the Immune Status of Piglets. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 15(11): 88-91.'),(7974,'170','Population Dynamics of Fruit flies in Garcinia spp. in Uttara Kannada district of Karnataka','Raghunatha R., Javaregowda, Vasudeva R., R.V. Hegde and Roopa S. Patil','Population-Dynamics-of-Fruit-flies-in-Garcinia-spp.-in-Uttara-Kannada-district-of-Karnataka-Raghunatha-R-3.pdf','',1,'The population dynamics of fruit flies Bactrocera dorsalis Hendel, B. correcta Bezzi, Bactrocera zonata Saunders, and Bactrocera versicolour Bezzi were studied in the Garcinia spp. at Sirsi and Katagal locations in Uttara Kannada district of Karnataka in the Standard Metrological Week (SMW) 1 to 27 during 2021 and 2022. The fluctuations in the occurrence of adult fruit flies were assessed by using locally made methyl eugenol (ME) traps and the trap catches were recorded at fortnight intervals in fixed locations. The results revealed that B. dorsalis reached the peak (200.00 flies/trap and 210.25 flies/trap) in SMW 15th with an abundance of 55.51 and 53.25 percent during 2021 and 2022 in the Sirsi location. Similarly, in the Katagal location, the B. dorsalis reached the peak (210.12 flies/trap and 215.25 flies/trap) in SMW 15th with an abundance of 63.52 and 67.72 percent during 2021 and 2022. Relatively, the popuation of B. correcta were maximum (145.00 flies/trap and 165.00 flies/trap) was observed in SMW 15th with an abundance of 34.32 and 35.72 percent during 2021 and 2022 in the Sirsi location. In the Katagal location, the peak of the B. correcta (135.25 flies/trap and 139.25 flies/trap) was observed in SMW 15th with an abundance of 36.31 and 37.60 percent during 2021 and 2022 in Garcinia indica and the peak population of fruit flies coincided with peak fruiting. Comparable trap caches trend was observed in G. morella and G. gummigutta. Similarly, the B. zonata and B. versicolour trap caches and abundance were very low in both locations in Garcinia spp. ','Bactrocera dorsalis, B.correcta, B. zonata, B. versicolour, Garcinia spp, trap caches','In conclusion of the present research findings, the population of fruit flies fluctuated during the fruiting period in Garcinia spp. and B. dorsalis appeared to be the most abundant species as compared to B. correcta, B. zonata and B. versicolour.','-',': Raghunatha R., Javaregowda, Vasudeva R., R.V. Hegde and Roopa S. Patil (2023). Population Dynamics of Fruit flies in Garcinia spp. in Uttara Kannada district of Karnataka. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 15(12): 09-15.'),(7975,'163','Exploring the Diverse World of Isoxazoles: Synthesis, Biological Activities, and Prospects','Kishor Wani, Anna Pratima Nikalje and Harichandra A. Parbat','Exploring-the-Diverse-World-of-Isoxazoles-Synthesis-Biological-Activities-and-Prospects-Harichandra-Parbat-103.pdf','',1,'Isoxazoles represent a class of heterocyclic compounds having remarkable diversity of biological activities, making them a subject of extensive research and interest among chemists and pharmacologists. Achieving regioselective synthesis of isoxazoles and controlling the stereochemistry can be challenging due to the presence of multiple reactive sites. Ensuring compatibility with various functional groups during synthesis is crucial for the versatility of isoxazole derivatives. This comprehensive review aims to offer a concise overview of synthesis methods and the diverse range of biological activities associated with isoxazoles. In conclusion, this review offers a comprehensive perspective on the synthesis methodologies and the extensive biological activities of isoxazoles. It underscores the significance of isoxazole-based compounds in drug discovery and medicinal chemistry, inspiring further research in this intriguing class of heterocycles.','Isoxazoles, Synthesis, Biological Activities','In conclusion, the future of isoxazole research is marked by a convergence of synthetic innovation, biological discovery, and interdisciplinary collaboration. As our understanding of isoxazoles deepens and their diverse applications expand, these compounds are poised to make significant contributions to science, medicine, and technology in the coming years. Researchers in academia and industry are likely to continue harnessing the versatility of isoxazoles to address pressing scientific challenges and improve human well-being.','-','Kishor Wani, Anna Pratima Nikalje and Harichandra A. Parbat (2023). Exploring the Diverse World of Isoxazoles: Synthesis, Biological Activities, and Prospects. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 15(5a): 665-673.'),(7976,'163','Synthesis and Pharmacological Activities of Ligustrazine Derivatives: A Review','Pravin Thombare, Anna Pratima Nikalje and Harichandra A. Parbat','Synthesis-and-Pharmacological-Activities-of-Ligustrazine-Derivatives-A-Review-Harichandra-A.-Parbat-104.pdf','',1,'Ligustrazine, a bioactive alkaloid extracted from Chinese herb Ligusticum chuanxiong Hort, has garnered substantial consideration in recent days because of its diverse pharmacological activities besides therapeutic potential. Developing ligustrazine derivatives can be challenging due to several factors, and there are associated challenges in the synthesis and evaluation of their pharmacological activities. This paper focuses on the synthesis, pharmacological properties, as well as therapeutic applications of ligustrazine derivatives, targeting to deliver a widespread overview of current research in this field. In conclusion, this paper consolidates current knowledge on ligustrazine derivatives, offering valuable insights into their synthesis, pharmacological activities, and therapeutic applications. The exploration of ligustrazine derivatives holds great promise for the development of innovative pharmaceuticals with enhanced therapeutic efficacy and a broader range of clinical applications.','Ligustrazine, tetramethylpyrazine, alkylpyrazine, pharmacological activities','The use of natural ingredients is crucial to the drug discovery process. Among these natural products, ligustrazine has been utilized extensively in clinical settings because of the fact that it possesses an extensive range of high-potency antioxidant action and is hypotoxic. As the mechanism of action has been gradually recognized, ligustrazine has evolved into a topical chemical in the study that is currently being conducted. ','-','Pravin Thombare, Anna Pratima Nikalje and Harichandra A. Parbat (2023). Synthesis and Pharmacological Activities of Ligustrazine Derivatives: A Review. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 15(10): 674-680.'),(7977,'168','Probiotic Attributes of Lactic Acid Bacterial Isolates of Sweet Corn (Zea mays L. saccharata)','M.S. Yashaswini, Suvarna, V.C., Banu Deshpande, Shashank S. and Arpitha T.','Probiotic-Attributes-of-Lactic-Acid-Bacterial-Isolates-of-Sweet-Corn-(Zea-mays-L.-saccharata)-MS-Yashaswini-291.pdf','',1,'Probiotics are live microorganisms that, when administered in adequate amounts, confer a health benefit on the host. The focus of this research is to explore the probiotic capabilities of lactic acid (LA) bacteria of sweet corn, with the prospect of creating functional foods and supplements that enhance gut health. The LA bacterial isolates that exhibited significant biopreservation activity were further evaluated for their probiotic attributes. The two best LA bacterial strains, Lactiplantibacillus pentosus UASBMIC_18, Lactiplantibacillus plantarum UASBMIC_22 and a reference culture, Lactobacillus acidophilus NCIM 2908 were assessed for their probiotic potential. The viability of LA bacteria is crucial to deliver significant health benefits to the host by withstanding the conditions prevailing in the gastrointestinal tract. All the LA bacterial strains were evaluated for tolerance to diverse pH levels, temperature variations, bile salts, NaCl and phenol. Additionally, evaluations included adhesive properties such as auto-aggregation, cell hydrophobicity and safety assessments through haemolytic and antibiotic susceptibility tests. Lactiplantibacillus plantarum UASBMIC_22 strain demonstrated significant results, outperforming the reference Lactobacillus acidophilus strain NCIM 2903 in terms of all the evaluated probiotic properties. Allthe LA bacterial strains were negative for haemolytic activity, signifying their safety for consumption.','Probiotics, Lactic acid bacteria, Sweet corn, Lactiplantibacillus plantarum UASBMIC_22, Lactobacillus acidophilus NCIM 2908','Lactic acid bacteria are widely known for their probiotic attributes. The probiotic potential of effective antimicrobial lactic acid bacterial strains, specifically Lactiplantibacillus pentosus UASBMIC_18 and Lactiplantibacillus plantarum UASBMIC_22 were evaluated. This study marks the first documentation of lactic acid bacterial strains from sweet corn exhibiting probiotic characteristics. The results suggest that these lactic acid bacterial strains isolated from sweet corn possess favourable probiotic properties. They also exhibited non haemolytic activity, indicating their safety in consumption. ','-','M.S. Yashaswini, Suvarna, V.C., Banu Deshpande, Shashank S. and Arpitha T. (2023). Probiotic Attributes of Lactic Acid Bacterial Isolates of Sweet Corn (Zea mays L. saccharata). Biological Forum – An International Journal, 15(10): 1586-1595.'),(7978,'169','Generation Mean Analysis for Yield Related Traits in Bottlegourd [Lagenaria siceraria (MOL.) Standl.]','Kavya V. Aribenchi, Dileepkumar Masuthi, Vilas D. Gasti, Vijaykumar Rathod, Sanganabasav G. Gollagi, Sayeedwajeed R. Mulla and Prashantha A.','Generation-Mean-Analysis-for-Yield-Related-Traits-in-Bottlegourd-[Lagenaria-siceraria-(MOL.)-Standl.]-Kavya-V-Aribenchi-17.pdf','',1,'Six generation mean analysis was carried out to investigate the inheritance of yield traits (Fruit length, fruit equatorial diameter, number of fruits per vine, average fruit weight, fruit yield per vine, number of seeds per fruit and hundred seed weight) using two crosses of bottle gourd viz., IC342079 × IC4211962 and Arka Bahar × IC4211962, parents, F1, F2, B1 and B2 generation in the kharif season of 2023 at Kittur Rani Channamma College of Horticulture, Arabhavi, Belagavi district (Karnataka), India. Results indicated that dominance × dominance gene effect was predominant in cross IC342079 × IC4211962 for average fruit weight and fruit yield per vine. Whereas, additive, additive x dominance and dominance × dominance gene effect were predominant in cross Arka Bahar × IC4211962 for average fruit weight. For fruit yield per vine additive × dominance and dominance × dominance gene interactions in cross Arka Bahar × IC4211962 were found predominant.','Lagenaria siceraria, Gene effects, Epistasis, Gene interactions, Generation Mean Analysis','Generation mean analysis and heterobeltiosis in conjunction with negligible inbreeding depression, revealed presence of fixable gene action with interactions for yield suggesting simple selection or pedigree selection. Traits showing complex inheritance can be improved through reciprocal recurrent selection or by intermating with in the population.','-','Kavya V. Aribenchi, Dileepkumar Masuthi, Vilas D. Gasti, Vijaykumar Rathod, Sanganabasav G. Gollagi, Sayeedwajeed R. Mulla and Prashantha A. (2023). Generation Mean Analysis for Yield Related Traits in Bottlegourd [Lagenaria siceraria (MOL.) Standl.]. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 15(11): 92-95.'),(7979,'169','Estimates of Genetic variability for Yield and its Attributes and Scope of Selection in Chilli (Capsicum annuum L.)','Dharmendra Bahadur Singh, G.C. Yadav, Prashant, Nitesh Kumar Singh and Anuj Tiwari','Estimates-of-Genetic-variability-for-Yield-and-its-Attributes-and-Scope-of-Selection-in-Chilli-(Capsicum-annuum-L.)-Dharmendra-Bahadur-Singh-18.pdf','',1,'Selection of the superior traits in plants one of the important phenomena of natural selection. Genetic variability in plants also considered one of the important bases of the natural selection, which can open a new way of trait selection in crops. The present investigation was carried out on chillies (Capsicum annuum L.) crop during autumn and winter season of 2021–2022, with the aims of to determine the genetic variability among the genotypes and the heritability in general and genetic advance in percentage of mean. The experimental sample size included 40 genotypes including one check (Kashi Anmol), in a Randomised Complete Block Design with three replications. Observation was based upon thirteen quantitative characteristics. For all characteristics, the phenotypic coefficients of variation (PCV) estimations were greater than the genotypic coefficients of variation (GCV). Ascorbic acid had the greatest phenotypic and genotypic coefficient of variation, followed by fruit yield per plant, average fruit weight, fruit length, fruit circumference, pedicle length, plant height, number of fruits per plant, primary branches per plant, and secondary branches per plant. The heritability estimates for various traits ranged from 26.00 (days to mature red ripe stage) to 99.7 (ascorbic acid). The percentage of mean genetic advancement varied from 4.11 to 78.59 percent ascorbic acid (days to mature green stage). As a result of the aforesaid findings, it is possible to infer that there is significant potential for successful crop modification for better yield and yield attributing trait in existing chilli germplasm.','Chilli (Capsicum annuum L.), variability, GCV, PCV, heritability, genetic advances','The all-yield attributing characters showing high genetic advance provide a broad way for the improvement in genotypes for specific character. Thus, there exist ample scope for improvement in available germplasm to develop new improved varieties of chilli in future.','-','Dharmendra Bahadur Singh, G.C. Yadav, Prashant, Nitesh Kumar Singh and Anuj Tiwari (2023). Estimates of Genetic variability for Yield and its Attributes and Scope of Selection in Chilli (Capsicum annuum L.). Biological Forum – An International Journal, 15(11): 96-99.'),(7980,'163','Viral Endocytosis: Mechanistic Insights and Therapeutic Targets','Ravdeep Kaur, Joginder Singh Panwar and Kongara Hanumantha Rao','Viral-Endocytosis-Mechanistic-Insights-and-Therapeutic-Targets-Kongara-Hanumantha-Rao-105.pdf','',1,'Endocytosis process is utilized for various cell processes including cell-cell interactions, signal responses, homeostasis and even for virus internalization, by the eukaryotic cells. Among all the endocytic mechanisms such as Phagocytosis, Pinocytosis, Caveolin dependent & independent pathway; Clathrin dependent and receptor mediated is the most commonly hijacked by the human viruses such as Human Papilloma Virus, Adenovirus, ZIKA virus and Hepatitis-B virus. The selection basis for these four viruses is non-availability of high efficacy drugs, vaccines and other treatments as compared to the other human viruses. As per the evolutionary knowledge, host cells themselves are contributing towards the viral internalization and infection. However, the mechanisms and factors involved in the viral uptake are still not properly understood. Advances in the understanding of the uptake, transmission and infection process will facilitate the researchers to design the targeted therapeutic approaches and in prevention of the infection to the naïve host cells in the human body. In this review, we have addressed the current knowledge of endocytic mechanisms, host cell factors & host-virus interactions; employed by the Human Papilloma virus, ZIKA virus, Adenovirus and Hepatitis-B virus. We have attempted to summarize the drugs, plant and microbes’ based compounds & therapies developed from the currently available researches along with their targets in the infected host cells and the drugs, therapeutic treatments and vaccines under the clinical trials that can be possibly available in the future against the concerned viruses. ','Endocytosis, Human Papilloma Virus, Hepatitis – B Virus, ZIKA Virus, Adenovirus, Antivirals','This review explore endocytic mechanisms and drugs against four human viruses: Human Papilloma Virus, Zika virus, Hepatitis B Virus and Adenovirus. Introduction of viral genes in human hosts contribute to viral infection spread, affecting the understanding of endocytic mechanisms & development of viral protein inhibitors and vaccines. The various pathways of endocytosis employed by the viruses to enter the host cell, replicate and cause infection, still forms a unique tool that is necessary to uncover the other new virus transportation and endocytic pathways, in order to develop a remarkable drug against the definitive virus. ','-','Ravdeep Kaur, Joginder Singh Panwar and Kongara Hanumantha Rao (2023). Viral Endocytosis: Mechanistic Insights and Therapeutic Targets. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 15(5a): 681-689.'),(7981,'168','Assessing Banana Varieties for their Response to Banana Bunchy Top Virus (BBTV) Infection','A.D. Gadhave, M.S. Joshi, P.A. Sahane, S.V. Sawardekar, P.D. Patil and B.D. Shinde','Assessing-Banana-Varieties-for-their-Response-to-Banana-Bunchy-Top-Virus-(BBTV)-Infection-AD-Gadhave-292.pdf','',1,'The Banana Bunchy Top Virus (BBTV) causes severe disease development in bananas resulting in a considerable reduction in yield. This study aimed to investigate the response of commercial banana cultivars, viz. Red Banana, Grand naine, Safed Velchi, and Rasabale, to BBTV. Ensuring consistent evaluation across diverse banana types, managing subjective symptom identification, and conducting extended observations demand meticulous resources. Integrating genomic analysis, ethical concerns, and real-world adaptability further complicates the implementation of resistant sources in sustainable agriculture. Pentalonia nigronervosa, an insect vector that feeds on banana plants, was used to transmit the virus. During the experiment, ten viruliferous adult aphids were allowed to feed on each healthy plant, with an acquisition feeding period of 24 hrs. and 48 hours of inoculation feeding period. Banana plants were then observed for three months to determine the incubation period and intensity. At the end of the observation period, all cultivars showed typical symptoms of BBTV. The disease incidence rate was 73.33%, 83.33%, 26.66%, and 16.66% for Red Banana, Grand Naine, Safed Velchi, and Rasabale, respectively, at the three-month growth stage. At the six-month growth stage, the incidence of BBTV was 66.33%, 80.00%, 36.66%, and 13.33%, respectively. At the nine-month growth stage, the incidence of BBTV was 60.00%, 66.66%, 30.00%, and 13.33%, respectively. This paper highlights the importance of exploring banana germplasm to find a resistant BBTV source.','Banana bunchy top virus (BBTV), Incubation period, Germplasm, Insect vector, Cultivars, Acquisition feeding period','This study aimed to assess various banana varieties for their response to Banana Bunchy Top Virus (BBTV) infection, and our findings have provided valuable insights into the susceptibility and resistance of different banana cultivars to this devastating viral disease. Through rigorous experimentation and data analysis, we observed significant variations in the response of the tested banana varieties to BBTV infection. Some varieties displayed a high degree of susceptibility, showing severe symptoms and rapid spread of the virus throughout the plants. In contrast, Rasabale and Safed velchi varieties exhibited a remarkable level of resistance, with limited symptom development and restricted virus proliferation. These findings have important implications for banana cultivation and management strategies, especially, in regions where BBTV poses a significant threat to banana production. Farmers and stakeholders can make informed decisions regarding which banana varieties to cultivate based on their susceptibility or resistance to BBTV. By choosing resistant varieties, they can potentially reduce the impact of the disease and minimize crop losses with reduced use of Pesticides.','-','A.D. Gadhave, M.S. Joshi, P.A. Sahane, S.V. Sawardekar, P.D. Patil and B.D. Shinde (2023). Assessing Banana Varieties for Their Response to Banana Bunchy Top Virus (BBTV) Infection. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 15(10): 1596-1600.'),(7982,'168','Estimation of Genetic variability and Frequency Distribution of EMS Mutant derived F2 Population of Wheat (Triticum aestivum L.) for Varied Agronomic Traits','Jajati Keshari Nayak, Raju Ratan Yadav, Santvana Tyagi, Pooja Joshi and Sundip Kumar ','Estimation-of-Genetic-variability-and-Frequency-Distribution-of-EMS-Mutant-derived-F2-Population-of-Wheat-(Triticum-aestivum-L.)-for-Varied-Agronomic-Traits-Sundip-Kumar-293.pdf','',1,'The investigation was carried out at the experimental farm of G. B. Pant University of Agriculture and Technology, Pantnagar, Uttarakhand, spanning the winter seasons from 2021 to 2023. The experimental material comprised P1, P2, and F2, encompassing 240 lines within the F2 population derived from the cross mutant line BSM 583 × PBW 343. The experimental was conducted in augmented design, incorporating two commercial cultivars (HD 3298, HD 3226) and two parents as checks for comparative analysis. The findings underscored significant differences in phenotypic values among the measured traits between the two parents and the examined cross. While the means of all studied characteristics surpassed those of the checks, considerable variability in yields and yield components was evident due to the introduced mutation. The averages of measured traits in both F1 plants and F2 populations across all crosses closely aligned with those of the respective parents. Notably, the study revealed no consistent reduction in heritability attributable to the mutation. Furthermore, the investigation unveiled substantial genotypic variance for all twelve traits, with coefficients of variance ranging from 1.95 to 37.26%. Remarkably, tiller number (TN) and Biomass exhibited the highest genetic coefficients of variance (GCV) (55.08 %, 58.12%) and phenotypic coefficients of variance (PCV) (55.64 % and 58.32 %), respectively, followed by peduncle length with GCV at 40.83 % and PCV at 42.46 %. Traits such as plant height (PH), tiller number (TN), Flag leaf length (FL), Peduncle length and biomass demonstrated both high heritability and significant genetic advance. In essence, the study underscores the extensive variability introduced by the mutation, impacting yield-related traits, while also emphasizing the heritability and genetic advance observed in key agronomic parameters. In this study, the heritability of yield attributing parameters within an ethyl methanesulfonate (EMS) induced mutant population poses a significant challenge, given the inherently random and spontaneous nature of mutations. In addressing this challenge, our study delves into the examination of heritability and variability within the F2 population of EMS-induced mutants. The objective is to comprehensively assess the potential of these mutants as valuable contributors to the breeding cycle, positioning them as promising donors in enhancing agricultural yields and for crop improvement initiatives.','Variability, EMS Mutant population, Heritability, Phenotypic Variance','The current investigation highlights the substantial genetic variation among the F2 segregating lines derived from EMS, encompassing all the tested traits. This observation provides a valuable opportunity for plant breeders to engage in the meticulous selection and enhancement of these traits. Traits that exhibit high heritability and are easily measurable can be particularly advantageous for expeditious screening of large volumes of planting materials, specifically for the trait of interest. Furthermore, the principal component analysis unveiled that principal components PC1 and PC2 collectively accounted for approximately 30% of the total variations. This outcome serves as additional confirmation of the ample genetic diversity present in the mutant lines, particularly BSM 583, thereby underlining their potential utility in wheat improvement programs.','-','Jajati Keshari Nayak, Raju Ratan Yadav, Santvana Tyagi, Pooja Joshi and Sundip Kumar (2023). Estimation of Genetic variability and Frequency Distribution of EMS Mutant derived F2 Population of Wheat (Triticum aestivum L.) for Varied Agronomic Traits. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 15(10): 1601-1606.');
INSERT INTO `pdf_upload` VALUES (7983,'168','Evaluation of Biophysical and Biochemical Parameters of Okra Genotypes for Resistance against jassid, Amrasca biguttula biguttula (Ishida)','Dose Janhavi G., N. S. Satpute, S. K. Bhalkare, S. S. Lande and Thakre B. A.','Evaluation-of-Biophysical-and-Biochemical-Parameters-of-Okra-Genotypes-for-Resistance-against-jassid,-Amrasca-biguttula-biguttula-(Ishida)-Janhavi-Dose-294.pdf','',1,'The study was conducted on twenty selected genotypes of okra to evaluate the role of biophysical and biochemical parameters imparting resistance or susceptibility to jassid [(Amrasca biguttula biguttula) (Ishida)] Leafhopper is a sucking insect pest which causes hopper burn symptom that can reduce productivity of the crop. The biophysical characters viz., trichome density on vein, leaf lamina and midrib of different okra genotypes are associated with infestation of leafhopper ranged as 7 to 15, 7.9 to 15.1 and 6.5 to 12.7, respectively. The highest phenol content (1.57 mg/gm) and lowest percentage of total soluble sugar content (2.36%) was recorded in the genotype, PDKV Pragati while, minimum phenol content (0.87 mg/gm) and highest total soluble sugar content was observed in the genotype, Korchi x Phule (5.21%). The biophysical characters of okra genotypes exhibited significant influence on infestation of leafhoppers. The plant characters viz., trichome density on vein (r = -0.97), leaf lamina (r = -0.93) and midrib (r = -0.98) were negatively correlated with resistance to leafhopper infestation. The biochemical constituent total soluble sugar (0.964) was positively correlated while phenol content (r = -0.83) showed negative correlation with leafhopper population. The okra genotypes, PDKV Pragati, Arka Anamika, Parbhani Kranti and Akola Bahar were found to be resistant, while Korchi x Phule and Vijayalaxmi were categorized as susceptible. Thus, the genotypes which are resistant can be used as a source for breeding of okra against Amrasca biguttula biguttula.','Okra, Amrasca biguttula biguttula, Biophysical parameter, Biochemical parameters, correlation coefficient, correlation matrix','Biological factor (trichome density), high trichome density were strongly associated with resistance. Biochemical factors viz., high phenol and low total soluble sugar were the contributing characters for imparting resistance against leafhoppers.','-','Dose Janhavi G., N. S. Satpute, S. K. Bhalkare, S. S. Lande and Thakre B. A. (2023). Evaluation of Biophysical and Biochemical Parameters of Okra Genotypes for Resistance against jassid, Amrasca biguttula biguttula (Ishida). Biological Forum – An International Journal, 15(10): 1607-1614.'),(7984,'169','Multivariate Analysis to Screen Heat Tolerant Lines of Bread Wheat based on Morphological and Quality Traits','Karuna, Y.P.S. Solanki, Vikram Singh, Navreet Kaur Rai, Lalit Kumar and Lovneesh Choudhary','Multivariate-Analysis-to-Screen-Heat-Tolerant-Lines-of-Bread-Wheat-based-on-Morphological-and-Quality-Traits-KARUNA-19.pdf','',1,'Sixty advance lines of wheat with four standard checks (WH 1021, WH 1124, HD 3059 and DBW 90) were evaluated during Rabi 2020-21 at the research area of Wheat and Barley section, Department of Genetics and Plant Breeding, CCS Haryana Agricultural University, Hisar using multivariate approaches to sort fifteen quantitative and eight qualitative traits into respective categories that describe the share of components to the total variation in the study. The cluster analysis revealed that advance lines and checks were classified into seven clusters, with crosses between members of cluster III and cluster IV producing a preferable combination of morphological and quality traits. The results of PCA depicted that the first seven out of twenty three principal components accounted for 70.66 % of the total variance in the study. The biplot illustrated that traits viz., grain yield per plot, biological yield per plot, flag leaf length, grain weight per spike and number of spikelets per spike had longer lengths on both axes, depicting an ample contribution to both PC1 and PC2. The observed patterns indicated the presence of extensive diversity that may be considerate in choosing parents, promising enough to produce heterotic stress tolerant combinations and to determine their implicit role in genetic enhancement.','Multivariate approaches, Cluster analysis, PCA, Biplot, Genetic diversity','The present study has revealed substantial degrees of variation among the sixty advance lines and four standard checks. The traits viz., biological yield per plot, number of effective tillers per meter, 1000 grain weight, flag leaf length, peduncle length, number of grains per spike, grain weight per spike and hectolitre weight were identified that determine the yield under stress and selection based on which would be efficacious to improve wheat yield. Aforesaid characters have high positive factor loadings and statistically valid differences that contributed more to genetic diversity and were crucial in illustrating the clusters. The grouping of genotypes into seven clusters and reduction of traits to seven major principal components by multivariate approaches would be of practical value to wheat breeders to design experiments for further germplasm collection regarding heat tolerance as well as for hybridization activities to produce heterotic progenies.','-','Karuna, Y.P.S. Solanki, Vikram Singh, Navreet Kaur Rai, Lalit Kumar and Lovneesh Choudhary (2023). Multivariate Analysis to Screen Heat Tolerant Lines of Bread Wheat based on Morphological and Quality Traits. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 15(11): 100-107.'),(7985,'169','Genetic Variability, Heritability, Genetic Advance and Trait Association Studies in Rainfed Rice Genotypes','Muthuramu S. and Thangaraj K.','Genetic-Variability-Heritability-Genetic-Advance-and-Trait-Association-Studies-in-Rainfed-Rice-Genotypes-Muthuramu-S-20.pdf','',1,'Abundant variability, heritability and extent of association between yield related traits in the initial breeding material ensures better chances of producing desired forms of a crop plant. In order to study genetic variation, genetic inheritance, genetic advancement, and the relationship between yield and related characteristics of 16 advanced rice cultures, the experiment was carried out with rainfed condition. All of the treatments have significant implications for the numerous features under study, according to the analysis of variance. Straw yield had a moderate GCV and the number of effective tillers per plant, number of spikes per square metre plot area, grain yield, straw yield and harvest index showed the highest magnitude of PCV. Days to 50% blooming was shown to have a high genetic gain and high heritability, which suggests that additive gene action plays a substantial role in the generational transmission of this feature. Harvest index was found to have a positive correlation with days to 50% blooming, number of spikes per square metre and length of the panicle. These results suggest that selecting for harvest index will help develop high-yielding genotypes in rainfed environments by simultaneously improving these traits. Straw yield showed very high direct effects, while the harvest index had a high direct effect on grain production. To increase grain yield under rainfed rice cultivation, greater weight should be placed on the characteristics of days to 50% blooming, straw yield and harvest index. Hence result obtained from this study is paving way for rapid improvement in yield in rainfed environment by considering these mentioned traits during selection process. ','Variability, heritability, genetic advance, trait association, rainfed rice','The variability investigations lead to the conclusion that days to 50% blooming is a variable that is mostly inherited by additive gene action and has a high heritability and genetic progress. In the rainfed rice habitat, this characteristic could therefore be used as useful selection factors throughout the breeding program. According to association studies, in order to increase grain yield under rainfed rice farming technique, greater weight should be placed on the characteristics of days to 50% blooming, straw yield and harvest index.','-','Muthuramu S. and Thangaraj K. (2023). Genetic Variability, Heritability, Genetic Advance and Trait Association Studies in Rainfed Rice Genotypes. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 15(11): 108-112.'),(7986,'168','Seasonal Incidence of Major Insect Pests of Cabbage (Brassica oleracea var. capitata L.) at Parbhani, Maharashtra','Vadluri Pallavi, S.S. Dhurgude, Patait D.D. and Kokkula Akhilesh ','Seasonal-Incidence-of-Major-Insect-Pests-of-Cabbage-(Brassica-oleracea-var.-capitata-L.)-at-Parbhani-Maharashtra-A-Vadluri Pallavi-295.pdf','',1,'A study on the seasonal occurrence of major cabbage insect pests was conducted at the Department of Agricultural Entomology, VNMKV, Parbhani during the winter of 2021-2022. Cabbage seedlings were planted in 60 quadrats with weekly monitoring. The most effective strategy for mitigating pest damage involves tackling pests during the early stages of their life cycle. Achieving this requires timely prediction of pest occurrences. However, given the swift changes in climatic conditions, it becomes imperative to investigate the seasonal patterns of key cabbage insect pests in relation to weather parameters. The findings revealed that leaf webber larvae first appeared in the third week of December (SMW 51st) and peaked at 25.04 larvae per quadrat during the second week of January (2nd SMW). Head borer activity peaked during the third week of January (SMW 3rd) at 10.4 larvae per quadrat. The diamondback moth infestation began in the third week of December (SMW 51st) and reached its peak of 8.6 larvae per quadrat in the last week of January (SMW 4th). The tobacco leaf-eating caterpillar was observed in the last week of December (SMW 52nd) and peaked in the second week of January (SMW 2nd) at 1.4 larvae per quadrat. Larvae of C. illecta were first spotted in the first week of January (SMW 1st), peaking at 0.2 larvae per quadrat in the second week of January (SMW 2nd). Hairy caterpillar activity commenced in the third week of December (SMW 51st) with a peak of 0.2 larvae per quadrat in the second week of January (SMW 2nd). Aphid infestation started in the third week of December (SMW 51st), reaching their peak at 112.2 aphids per quadrat in the second week of January (SMW 2nd). Correlation studies showed that leaf webber correlated negatively with morning humidity (r= -0.736). Head borer had non-significant negative correlations with maximum temperature (r= -0.21), minimum temperature (r= -0.185), morning relative humidity (r= -0.009) and evening relative humidity (r = -0.097). Daimond back moth showed non-significant negative correlations with temperature, minimum temperature (r= -0.444), maximum temperature (r= -0.0169). Tobacco caterpillar showed a negative but non-significant correlation with morning relative humidity (r= -0.175) and maximum temperature (r= -0.157). ','Seasonal incidence, Cabbage pests, weather parameters, Correlation','On the basis of results and discussion of the present investigation the following recommendations, conclusions are proposed. The leaf webber, Head borer and Daimondback moth larvae varied from 1.2 to 23.4, 0.6 to 12.6, and 0 to 0.8 per quadrat, respectively. Tobacco caterpillar, C. illecta, and Hairy caterpillar ranged from 0.2 to 1.4, 0.2 to 0.2, and 0.2 larvae per quadrat, respectively. Aphid was most abundant in the 2nd SMW. Weather conditions showed temperature ranges of 26.7 to 30.4°C, humidity from 8 to 15.9%, and no rainfall during this period. The peak activity of these pests occurred in different weeks with varying populations. Correlation analysis revealed relationships between the pests and weather parameters. For instance, leaf webber correlated positively with minimum and maximum temperature but negatively with morning humidity. Head borer had non-significant negative correlations with temperature and humidity. Diamondback moth showed non-significant negative correlations with temperature and a non-significant positive correlation with morning humidity. Tobacco caterpillar had positive but non-significant correlations with temperature and evening humidity. C. illecta had significant positive correlations with evening and morning humidity but non-significant correlations with temperature. Hairy caterpillar showed a significant positive correlation with evening humidity and non-significant correlations elsewhere. These findings provide insights for managing cabbage pests effectively, helping farmers minimize losses due to head borer, diamondback moth, and leaf webber infestations during the growing season.','-','Vadluri Pallavi, S.S. Dhurgude, Patait D.D. and Kokkula Akhilesh (2023). Seasonal Incidence of Major Insect Pests of Cabbage (Brassica oleracea var. capitata L.) at Parbhani, Maharashtra. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 15(10): 1615-1622.'),(7987,'169','Pedo-transfer Functions for Predication of Soil Hydraulic properties in Kamblihal SWS Northern Dry Zone of Karnataka State','Rajesh N.L., Basavaraj K., Chaitra, Krishna Desai, Kirana Kumara and Sahana ','Pedo-transfer-Functions-for-Predication-of-Soil-Hydraulic-properties-in-Kamblihal-SWS-Northern-Dry-Zone-of-Karnataka-State-N.-L.-Rajesh-21.pdf','',1,'Kamblihal sub watersheds (SWS) area has soil depth of shallow to deep; the texture was found to be clay, The soil reaction (pH) was neutral to strongly alkaline, low to medium EC, organic carbon content was found to be low. Available nitrogen was low to medium, phosphorus was medium and potassium was high. The prediction of FC and PWP through the developed PTFs was satisfactory with high R2 (0.952). 95 per cent of the variation was explained by the silt and clay for field capacity at 5% and 1% level significantly. Infiltration rate (mm/h) increased with decreasing clay content. The R2 value (R2 = 0.668). 67 per cent of the variation was explained by the clay for infiltration rate at 1% level significantly. ','Field capacity, Infiltration rate, soil quality indicators and Pedo-transfer functions','Kamblihal sub watersheds (SWS) area has soil depth of shallow to deep; the texture was found to be clay, The soil reaction (pH) was neutral to strongly alkaline, low to medium EC, organic carbon content was found to be low. Available nitrogen was low to medium, phosphorus was medium and potassium was high. The prediction of FC and PWP through the developed PTFs was satisfactory with high R2 (0.952). 95 per cent of the variation was explained by the silt and clay for field capacity at 5% and 1% level significantly. Infiltration rate (mm/h) increased with decreasing clay content. The R2 value (R2 = 0.668). 67 per cent of the variation was explained by the clay for infiltration rate at 1% level significantly. ','-','Rajesh N.L., Basavaraj K., Chaitra, Krishna Desai, Kirana Kumara and Sahana (2023). Pedo-transfer Functions for Predication of Soil Hydraulic properties in Kamblihal SWS Northern Dry Zone of Karnataka State. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 15(11): 113-121.'),(7988,'169','Comparative Analysis of Long-Term Fertilization affect on Stability of Vertisol Soil Aggregates under Soybean-Safflower and Sorghum-Wheat Cropping Systems','Oguboyana Srikanth Yadav, S.M. Bhoyar, S.D. Jadhao and P.W. Deshmukh ','Comparative-Analysis-of-Long-Term-Fertilization-Affect-on-Stability-of-Vertisol-Soil-Aggregates-under-Soybean-Safflower-and-Sorghum-Wheat-Cropping-Systems-Oguboyana-Srikanth-Yadav-22.pdf','',1,'It is well acknowledged that integrated nutrient management, or INM, is a useful strategy for maintaining soil fertility and ensuring sustained crop yield. It has been demonstrated that adding organic manures to the soil improves its properties and increases the availability of nutrients. Soil samples from long-term fertilizer trials at the research farms of Dr. PDKV, Akola, Maharashtra, and VNMKV, Parbhani, Maharashtra, were gathered during the 2020–21 crop year. Samples represent six familiar treatments combinations comprising farmyard manure and chemical fertilizers. The randomized block design (RBD) was accompanied. The study intended to examine the footprint of INM on mean weight diameter (MWD) of vertisols under the Soybean-Safflower and Sorghum-Wheat cropping systems. The long-term practice of manure and fertilizers in Akola and Parbhani significantly impacted the mean weight diameter of soils under different cropping systems. The mean water depth (MWD) values in Akola and Parbhani ranged from 0.47 to 0.89 mm and 0.49 to 0.76 mm respectively, while in the subsurface layer, they varied from 0.42 to 0.79 mm and 0.44 to 0.68 mm respectively. The study found that the 100% NPK+FYM treatment in both cropping systems resulted in the highest MWD values, indicating enhanced soil aggregate stability.','Mean weight diameter, inorganics, FYM, Sorghum-Wheat and Soybean-Safflower, Integrated nutrient management','From the above investigation results, it can be concluded that the application of balanced fertilizer and organic fertilizer, especially 100% NPK+FYM treatment, has significantly improved the mean weight diameter (MWD) sof Soil aggregates in sorghum-wheat and soybean-safflower growing systems and also at soil depth. This demonstrates superior aggregate stability and physical soil attributes.','-','Oguboyana Srikanth Yadav, S.M. Bhoyar, S.D. Jadhao and P.W. Deshmukh (2023). Comparative Analysis of Long-Term Fertilization Affect on Stability of Vertisol Soil Aggregates under Soybean-Safflower and Sorghum-Wheat Cropping Systems. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 15(11): 122-125.'),(7989,'169','Studies on Heritability and Genetic Advance for Yield and its Contributing Traits in Greengram (Vigna radiata L. Wilczek)','Aranav Yadav, R.K. Yadav, Mahak Singh, Shweta, C.L. Maurya, Vivekanand Yadav and Pradeep Kumar ','Studies on Heritability and Genetic Advance for Yield and its Contributing Traits in Greengram (Vigna radiata L. Wilczek)-Aranav Yadav-23.pdf','',1,'The present investigation was carried out at Student’s Instructional Farm, Chandra Shekhar Azad University of Agriculture and Technology, Kanpur- 2080 02 (U.P.) during 2020-23. This area falls in sub-tropical climatic zone. The soil type is sandy loam. The annual rainfall is about 1270 mm. The climate of district Kanpur is semi-arid with hot summer and cold winter. Geographically, Kanpur is located at an altitude of 127 meters above the mean sea level and the latitude and longitude with 26.400 N and 80.100 E respectively. The increase under selection may typically be predicted more accurately with the combination of heritability estimates and genetic advancement than with heritability estimates only. In this study, heritability was reported for days to maturity (23.1%), days to 50 % flowering (21.8%), harvest index (21.5%), no. of pods per plant (21.0%) and pod length (20.4%) in F1 generation. Heritability was reported for days to maturity (20.9%), days to 50% flowering (20.5%), number of pods per plant (20.2%), protein content (18.6%) and harvest index (14.0%) in F2 generation. High genetic advance as percent of mean was recorded for number of branches per plant, number of pods per plant, harvest index in F1 generation while number of branches per plant, plant height and harvest index in F2 generation.','Heritability, Genetic advance, Green gram and Yield.','Number of branches per plant, number of pods per plant, harvest index and plant height shows low heritability accompanied with high genetic advance. Characters are determined by additive gene effects when low heritability is combined with strong genetic advancement. High environmental impacts are manifesting as poor heredity. In such circumstances, selection could be useful.','-','Aranav Yadav, R.K. Yadav, Mahak Singh, Shweta, C.L. Maurya, Vivekanand Yadav and Pradeep Kumar (2023). Studies on Heritability and Genetic Advance for Yield and its Contributing Traits in Greengram (Vigna radiata L. Wilczek). Biological Forum – An International Journal, 15(11): 126-129.'),(7990,'169','Evaluation of Quizalofop-ethyl and its Ready Mix Combinations for Weed Management in French Bean (Phaseolus vulgaris L.)','Ketan, Shabnam Thakur, Sunil Kumar Gola, S.S. Rana, D.R. Chaudhary and Priyanshi Kaul ','Evaluation-of-Quizalofop-ethyl-and-its-Ready-Mix-Combinations-for-Weed-Management-in-French-Bean-(Phaseolus-vulgaris-L.)-Shabnam-Thakur-24.pdf','',1,'French bean is quite sensitive to weed interference, particularly during the early phases of vegetative development. The critical period for crop-weed competition in Frenchbean ranged between 28-37 days after sowing (DAS) when the crop should be kept free from weeds to prevent the potential yield losses. Thus, for the effective control of weeds throughout the crop season, use of post-emergence herbicides or their combinations is necessary. Therefore, a field investigation was conducted at the Experimental Farm of the Department of Vegetable Science and Floriculture, CSK HPKV, Palampur during Kharif, 2022 to infer about the quizalofop-ethyl and its ready to use combinations for weed management in French bean (Phaseolus vulgaris L.). The experimental site\'s soil was acidic, silty clay loam, medium in organic carbon, low in available nitrogen, medium in accessible phosphorus, and potassium. Eleven treatment combinations comprising of sprays of herbicides coupled with and without hand weeding were evaluated in a Randomized Block Design with three replications during Kharif, 2022. The most common weed flora identified in the experimental field was comprised of Digitaria sanguinalis (37.2%), Trifolium repens (20.4%), Cyperus rotundus (14.4%), Artimissia vulgaris (12.0%) and Alternanthera philoxeroides (15.6%). Results of the study revealed that hand weeding (twice) and pretilachlor 500 g/ha + imazethapyr 50 g/ha (pre-emergence) fb HW effectively reduced the count of weed species. Based on the results obtained from the study, it was concluded that the treatments, hand weeding (twice) and pretilachlor 500 g/ha + imazethapyr 50 g/ha (pre-emergence) fb HW were the best options for obtaining higher pod yield and management of complex weed flora in French bean.','Pretilachlor, Oxyfluorfen, Imazethapyr, Quizalofop-ethyl, French bean, Weed flora','The study\'s findings clearly show that the combined application of pretilachlor 500 g/ha + imazethapyr 50 g/ha (pre-emergence) fb HW and hand weeding (twice) appeared as one of the best options for complex weed flora management and obtaining higher pod yield of French bean.','-','Ketan, Shabnam Thakur, Sunil Kumar Gola, S.S. Rana, D.R. Chaudhary and Priyanshi Kaul (2023). Evaluation of Quizalofop-ethyl and its Ready Mix Combinations for Weed Management in French Bean (Phaseolus vulgaris L.). Biological Forum – An International Journal, 15(11): 130-135.'),(7991,'169','Influence of Plant Growth Regulators on Root, Shoot and Yield Attributes of Strawberry (Fragaria × ananassa Duch.) under Protected Conditions','Singh A., Singh M. and Singh P.','Influence-of-Plant-Growth-Regulators-on-Root-Shoot-and-Yield-Attributes-of-Strawberry-(Fragaria--ananassa-Duch.)-under-Protected-Conditions-Singh-A-25.pdf','',1,'Plant growth regulators are modern day chemicals used to boost the growth and yield of the plants. Whereas, strawberry is gaining popularity day by day due to its attractive shape, colour and sensual aroma. Not only it is high in flavours but also rich in natural antioxidants including carotenoids, phenols, flavonoids, dietary glutathione and endogenous metabolites. Ellagic acid is a plant phenol that occurs naturally in strawberry fruit. It has been discovered that eating its fruits on a regular basis can help to prevent cancer and asthma. Keeping all these points in mind the present study was planned at Khalsa College, Amritsar with seven treatments in year 2022-2023. The experiment was laid out in randomized block design (RBD) with three replications each. Procurement of healthy and cheap runners was major constraint during the study, which were brought from Solan, Himachal Pradesh. Moreover, lack of pollinators in protected structure was another issue which was sorted by artificial pollination using rope pulling. The results revealed that maximum plant height, number of leaves, petiole length, plant spread (E-W & N-S), Shoot weight (both fresh & dry), number of flowers, number of fruits, yield per plant, average root length, number of root tips, root volume and root weight (both fresh & dry) with foliar application of GA3 75 ppm. Whereas, maximum leaf area, fruit weight and minimum days to flowering were observed under the foliar application of NAA 50 ppm. Overall, it was concluded that GA3 75 ppm was best in improving shoot, root and yield attributes of strawberry.','Strawberry, NAA, GA3, TIBA, Growth, yield, correlation coefficient','Foliar application of various plant growth regulators was successful in improving shoot, root and yield attributes of strawberry as compared to control. But from all the plant growth regulators, NAA and GA3 was most successful in enhancing growth and yield of strawberry. Plants sprayed with NAA were first to flower and had higher leaf area and fruit weight. Whereas, GA3 application significantly increased plant height, root length, average number of root tips, number of leaves, petiole length, number of flowers, number of runners and yield per plant.','-','Singh A., Singh M. and Singh P. (2023). Influence of Plant Growth Regulators on Root, Shoot and Yield Attributes of Strawberry (Fragaria × ananassa Duch.) under Protected Conditions. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 15(11): 136-142.'),(7992,'169','Field Evaluation of some Newer Insecticides on American Fall Armyworm, Spodoptera frugiperda (Smith) and its Natural Enemies on Maize','Sandip N. Rathod, Gajanan K. Lande and Archana N. Borkar','Field-Evaluation-of-some-Newer-Insecticides-on-American-Fall-Armyworm-Spodoptera-frugiperda-(Smith)-and-its-Natural-Enemies-on-Maize-Archana-N-Borkar-26.pdf','',1,'American fall armyworm (FAW) has becomes a major insect pest on maize crop and causing tremendous yield losses. Farmers are more inclined towards the use of chemical insecticides in controlling FAW on maize crop. So. it is necessary to suggest them the insecticides which will not only control the FAW population efficiently but also maintain a natural balance of FAW and its natural enemies by considering above conditions a study was carried out on “Field evaluation of some newer insecticides on American fall armyworm, Spodoptera frugiperda (Smith) and its natural enemies on maize” at the research field of Department of Entomology, Dr. PDKV, Akola, during kharif 2019. The treatments included Chlorantraniliprole 18.5SC @ 4 ml/10 L, Spinetoram 11.7 SC @ 9 ml/10 L, Indoxacarb 14.5 SC @10 ml/10 L, Thiamethoxam12.6 ZC+Lambda-cyhalothrin 9.5 ZC @ 2.5 ml/10 L, Dimethoate 30 EC @ 12 ml/10 L, Spinosad 45 SC @ 3 ml/ 10 L, Emamectin benzoate 5 SG @ 4 gm/10 L along with control (no spray). All tested insecticides were found significantly superior and effective against fall armyworm in compare to the control (no spray) and succesfully reduces 70-96.63% population of fall armyworm. Among insecticides spinosad 45 SC @ 3 ml/ 10 L was proved most effective with 96.63% mortality in fall armyworm and it was found to be at par with other insecticidal treatments. During the study natural enemies such as lady bird beetle, spiders and carabid larva are recorded attacking fall armyworm. The effect of the above mentioned insecticides was recorded on these natural enemies also. Tested insecticides showed 40.28-86.27% reduction in population of natural enemies. Spinosad 45 SC @ 3 ml/ 10 L, Emamectin benzoate 5 SG@ 4 gm/10 L and Chlorantraniliprole 18.5 SC @ 4 ml/10 L are found to be comparatively safer to the natural enemies with mortality rate of 40.28-58.08%. On the other side, insecticides like Indoxacarb 14.5 SC @10 ml/10 L, Thiamethoxam 12.6 ZC+Lambda-cyhalothrin 9.5 ZC @ 2.5 ml/10 L, and Dimethoate 30 EC @ 12 ml/10 L showed more mortality in natural enemies in range of 70.83-86.27%. The present findings indicate that the newer insecticides are better option in managing the American fall armyworm on maize and can be included in Integrated Pest Management as one of the chemical components and can be used alternatively. ','American fall armyworm, maize, Spinosad, Chlorantraniliprole, Emamectin benzoate, natural enemies','Amongs all seven insecticidal treatments, Spinosad 45 SC @ 3 ml/ 10 L was found as the most effective one with 96.63% reduction in pest population. Second best treatment was recorded as Chlorantraniliprole 18.5 SC followed by Emamectin benzoate 5% SG, Spinetoram 11.7 SC, Thiamethoxam 12.6 ZC+Lambdacyhalothrin 9.5 ZC, Indoxacarb 14.5 SC and Dimethoate 30 EC. Natural enemies such as Lady bird beetle, spider and carabid larvae are found in association with different stages of S. frugiperda on maize at Dr. PDKV, Akola. The effect of the above mentioned insecticides was recorded on these natural enemies also. Tested insecticides showed 40.28-86.27% reduction in population of natural enemies. Spinosad 45 SC @ 3 ml/ 10 L, Emamectin benzoate 5 SG@ 4 gm/10 L and Chlorantraniliprole 18.5 SC @ 4 ml/10 L are found to be comparatively safer and less detrimental to natural enemies with mortality rate of 40.28-58.08%. On the other side, Indoxacarb 14.5 SC @10 ml/10 L, Thiamethoxam12.6 ZC+Lambda-cyhalothrin 9.5 ZC @ 2.5 ml/10 L, and Dimethoate 30 EC @ 12 ml/10 L showed relatively more mortality in range of 70.83-86.27% which proved them unsuitable for IPM program. Spraying of these insecticides should be avoided if natural enemies are present in abundance. From the present study it can be concluded that, newer insecticides are better option in managing the american fall armyworm on maize and can be included in IPM as one of chemical components and can be use alternatively. ','-','Sandip N. Rathod, Gajanan K. Lande and Archana N. Borkar (2023). Field Evaluation of some Newer Insecticides on American Fall Armyworm, Spodoptera frugiperda (Smith) and its Natural Enemies on Maize. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 15(11): 143-148.'),(7993,'168','Growth and Yield of Brinjal as influenced by Zinc and Boron fortified Briquettes in Lateritic soils of Konkan','Patil S.S., Dodake S.B., Kasture M.C., Sanap P.B., More V.G. and Vaidya K.P. ','Growth-and-Yield-of-Brinjal-as-influenced-by-Zinc-and-Boron-fortified-Briquettes-in-Lateritic-soils-of-Konkan-Patil-SS-296.pdf','',1,'An experiment was carried out during the rabi seasons of 2021-22 and 2022-23 to investigate the influence of zinc and boron fortified briquettes on brinjal growth, yield, and economics. There were three levels of recommended dose of nitrogen viz. 100, 80 and 60 per cent through Konkan Annapurna Briquettes (KAB) with and without fertilization of zinc and boron. The recommended dose of straight fertilizers with and without zinc and boron was also included in the experiment. The result revealed that the higher brinjal growth and fruit yield (31.43 and 31.99 t ha-1) Konkan region of Maharashtra obtained with the application of 100 per cent nitrogen through Konkan Annapurna Briquettes (KAB) fortified with 2 kg B and 3 kg Zn per hectare followed by 80 per cent N through Konkan Annapurna Briquettes (KAB) fortified with 2 kg B and 3 kg Zn per hectare.','Brinjal, Zinc, Boron, Fortified, Konkan Annapurna Briquettes and Growth rate','From present investigation, it can be concluded that use of zinc and boron fortified Konkan Annapurna Briquettes (KAB) application of brinjal 150% NPK + FYM recorded significantly higher growth and fruit yield. Treatment T7 (100 % N through KAB fortified with 2 kg boron + 3 kg zinc ha-1) was found to be statistically at par with T8 (80 % N through KAB fortified with 2 kg boron + 3 kg zinc ha-1) which was also recorded with higher benefit-cost ratio. Therefore, 80 % N through KAB fortified with 2 kg boron + 3 kg zinc ha-1 was found to be suitable for realizing optimum brinjal fruit yield. Hence, it is recommended for brinjal growers in Konkan region to ensure sustainability in crop production as well as maintaining soil health.','-','Patil S.S., Dodake S.B., Kasture M.C., Sanap P.B., More V.G. and Vaidya K.P. (2023). Growth and Yield of Brinjal as influenced by Zinc and Boron fortified Briquettes in Lateritic soils of Konkan. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 15(10): 1623-1631.'),(7994,'169','Studies on per se Performance and Combining Ability Analysis in Sponge Gourd (Luffa cylindrica (L.) Roem.)','Kalpana A., Kanthaswamy V., Marichamy M.S., Krishnan V. and Manikandan M.','Studies-on-per-se-Performance-and-Combining-Ability-Analysis-in-Sponge-Gourd-(Luffa-cylindrica-(L.)-Roem.)-Kalpana-A-27.pdf','',1,'To study the per se performance and combining ability of 30 crosses evolved through diallel mating system using six diverse genotypes. This experiment was conducted at Department of Horticulture, Pandit Jawaharlal Nehru College of Agriculture and Research Institute, Karaikal during 2023. Analysis of variances for diallel mating design revealed that variance due to treatments were highly significant for all the traits. Among 30 crosses, Pusa Sneha × Kashi Shreya recorded the highest mean value for fruit yield. Combining ability studies revealed that mean square due to GCA and SCA were significant indicated that both additive and non-additive type of gene effects played an important role in the inheritance of all these traits under study with preponderance of non-additive gene action for all the traits except number of primary branches vine-1, number of nodes vine-1, sex ratio, days to first fruit harvest and crude fibre. The parents Kashi Shreya (P4), Pusa Sneha (P2) and Kashi Rakshita (P5) were the best general combiners for fruit yield and some of the yield contributing characters. The three cross combinations viz., Pusa Sneha × Pusa Supriya, Kashi Shreya× Pusa Supriya and Pusa Chikni × Kashi Rakshita were found to be good specific combiners for fruit yield per vine.','Per se, diallel, sponge gourd, general combining ability, specific combining ability','Based on mean performance, the best hybrid combinations were Pusa Sneha × Kashi Shreya (P2 × P4) followed by Pusa Supriya × Kashi Shreya (P6 × P4) and Pusa Supriya × Pusa Sneha (P6 × P2) in terms of yield and yield component traits in the order of merit. An overview of per se performance and gca effects of parents for yield per vine and other yield components revealed that the parents Kashi Shreya (P4) and Pusa Sneha (P2) can be selected as desirable parents for the breeding programme. The selection of hybrids based on sca effects resulted in the identification of the hybrids Pusa Sneha × Pusa Supriya (P2 × P6), Pusa Chikni × Kashi Rakshita (P3 × P5), Kashi Shreya × Pusa Supriya (P4 × P6), Kashi Shreya × Kashi Rakshita (P4 × P5), Pusa Sneha × Kashi Shreya (P2 × P4) and Kashi Rakshita × Pusa Sneha (P5 × P2) which had superior sca effects for majority of growth and yield attributing characters. \r\nThough, these cross combinations may be utilized for commercial cultivation as hybrids after critical evaluation in varied environments or over locations. These could be used in future crossing Programme. The preponderance of non-additive gene action for most of the traits suggested that heterosis breeding approach might be more rewarding than selection.\r\n','-','Kalpana A., Kanthaswamy V., Marichamy M.S., Krishnan V. and Manikandan M. (2023). Studies on per se Performance and Combining Ability Analysis in Sponge Gourd (Luffa cylindrica(L.) Roem.). Biological Forum – An International Journal, 15(11): 149-156.'),(7995,'169','Antibacterial Activity of Essential Oils Against Enterobacter cloacae inciting Onion Soft Rot and Molecular Docking Study of its Major constituents','Anjali V.A., Basavarajappa M.P., Manjunath Hubballi, Raghavendra Gunnaiah, R.K. Mesta, Venkateshalu and Namita Bhaskar Raut ','Antibacterial-Activity-of-Essential-Oils-Against-Enterobacter-cloacae-inciting-Onion-Soft-Rot-and-Molecular-Docking-Study-of-its-Major-constituents-Anjali-V-A-28.pdf','',1,'Although onion is a popular crop among vegetables, onion soft rot has emerged as a devastating disease affecting its production. As being a vegetable that is mostly consumed raw in salads, an ecofriendly management strategy is the need of the hour. Essential oils prove to be promising alternative to chemical bactericides. Hence, the present study evaluated essential oils (clove oil, citronella oil, thyme oil, cinnamon oil and eucalyptus oil) against Enterobacter cloacae inciting soft rot in onion. Among the essential oils, thyme oil was the most effective in inhibiting the pathogen with an inhibition zone of 18.72 mm, which was followed by clove oil (17.15 mm) and citronella oil (16.72 mm). To justify the antibacterial activity of essential oils against E. cloacae, molecular docking studies were performed which revealed that receptor protein murE had a good binding affinity with selected ligands, in the range of -4.7 to -6.2 kcal/mol. Thus, essential oils can be potential antibacterial agents against E. cloacae causing soft rot in onion.','Onion soft rot, Enterobacter cloacae, thyme oil, molecular docking, antibacterial activity, binding affinity','Although India stands second in the production of onions, its productivity is often affected by many biotic factors among which soft rot is an emerging issue. The use of essential oils which is of plant origin can be a promising alternative for the management of this disease both under field and storage conditions. The study reveals the efficacy of mainly thyme oil, clove oil and citronella oil in managing the bacterial soft rot. Moreover, the mechanism of action of major constituents of these essential oils against target protein in the pathogen Enterobacter cloacae has been validated through molecular docking studies. Thus, the efficacy of essential oils against E. cloacae is backed by molecular docking studies and the study proposes essential oils as a suitable eco-friendly alternative to chemical pesticides for managing soft rot in onion. ','-','Anjali V.A., Basavarajappa M.P., Manjunath Hubballi, Raghavendra Gunnaiah, R.K. Mesta, Venkateshalu and Namita Bhaskar Raut (2023). Antibacterial Activity of Essential Oils Against Enterobacter cloacae inciting Onion Soft Rot and Molecular Docking Study of its Major constituents. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 15(11): 157-162.'),(7996,'169','Genetic Variability Studies for Grain Yield and Yield Components in Little Millet (Panicum sumatrense Roth ex Roem. & Schult.)','D. Swarna Latha, M. Sreevalli Devi, L. Madhavilatha and A.R. Nirmal Kumar','Genetic-Variability-Studies-for-Grain-Yield-and-Yield-Components-in-Little-Millet-(Panicum-sumatrense-Roth-ex-Roem.-&-Schult.)-D-Swarna-Latha-29.pdf','',1,'Little millet is a small seeded nutri-cereal, whose demand is gaining importance in recent days. So, it is important to estimate the extent of variability present in available germplasm which could be applied in selection procedures to develop consumer preferable varieties. Based on this, the present research was conducted at Agricultural Research Station, Perumallapalle during Rabi, 2022-23 for 30 little millet genotypes by considering a total of 14 yield and yield components to study genetic parameters viz., genetic variability, heritability (broad sense) and genetic advance as percent of mean. From the observations, the analysis of variance was recorded significant differences for all the traits studied except for SCMR at both 50 DAS and 80 DAS. High GCV and PCV was recorded for leaf area index at both 50 DAS and 80 DAS along with number of productive tillers plant-1, main panicle weight, grain yield plot-1 and fodder yield plot-1, indicating that these characters were governed by additive gene action and simple selection could be rewarding. High heritability was observed for the traits leaf area index at 50 DAS followed by days to maturity, leaf area index at 80 DAS, days to 50% flowering, 1000 seed weight, number of productive tillers plant-1, panicle length, plant height, harvest index, grain yield plot-1 and fodder yield plot-1. High heritability coupled with high genetic advance as percent of mean was recorded for all the characters except for days to maturity and SCMR at both 50 and 80 DAS, which concluded the better scope of these traits improvement through selection, as these characters are predominately governed by additive gene effects.','Little millet, genetic variability, heritability, genetic advance','Leaf area index at both 50 DAS and 80 DAS along with number of productive tillers plant-1, main panicle weight, grain yield plot-1 and fodder yield plot-1 recorded for having high GCV and PCV, indicated that these characters are governed by additive gene action and simple selection could be rewarding. High heritability coupled with high genetic advance as percent of mean was recorded for all the characters except for days to maturity and SCMR at both 50 and 80 DAS, which concluded the better scope of their improvement through selection, as these characters are predominately governed by additive gene effects.','-','D. Swarna Latha, M. Sreevalli Devi, L. Madhavilatha and A.R. Nirmal Kumar (2023). Genetic Variability Studies for Grain Yield and Yield Components in Little Millet (Panicum sumatrense Roth ex Roem. & Schult.). Biological Forum – An International Journal, 15(11): 163-167.'),(7997,'169','Effect of various Processing Methods on Jack Fruit (Artocarpus heterophyllus) Seed Flours','Kirthy Reddy M., Rita Narayanan and Sujatha G. ','Effect of various Processing Methods on Jack Fruit (Artocarpus heterophyllus) Seed Flours-Kirthy Reddy-30.pdf','',1,'Jackfruit seeds are underutilized and obscure with high potential for use in various food applications. This study aimed to evaluate the outturn of various processing methods on the composition, physical and antinutritional factors of seed flour from jackfruit. Seeds are subjected to roasting (180°C/15 minutes), boiling (100°C/60 minutes), steaming (121°C until softened), parching (200°C/30 minutes) and lye peeling (80°C/15 minutes in 0.05% NaOH). After processing the seeds were sliced and dried at 50°C. The moisture content varied from 4.36% to 6.92%. The protein content increased in thermally treated flours and was highest in RJFSF (Roasted) at 16.61%. Carr’s Index and Hausner Ratio varied between 11.80 – 15.57 and 1.13 – 1.18 showing good flow ability in all the flours. Thermally treated flours recorded a decrease in tannin and phytic acid content compared to raw JFSF. Thermal processing methods were more effective in improving composition, possess physical properties that can be applied in wet processing and reduced anti-nutritional factor in the JF seed flours, thus, suggesting that these seed flours can be incorporated/substituted/ replaced into different foods.','Jackfruit seeds, antinutrients, roasting, physical properties','This study has evaluated the compositional, physical, functional properties and antinutritional factors of flours obtained from Jackfruits seeds by various processing methods like roasting (180 °C/15 minutes), boiling (100 °C/60 minutes), steaming (121°C until softened), parching (200 °C/30 minutes) and lye peeling (80°C/15 minutes in 0.05% NaOH). The flours obtained from each processing method along with untreated flour were analyzed. Protein content in JFSFs significantly differed (p < 0.05) where the values ranged from 15.37±0.08% (Untreated JFSF) to 16.61±0.09% (RJFSF) having potential application as plant protein. Carr’s Index and Hausner Ratio values for all flours indicated superior flowability. Thermally processed flours recorded reduction of ANFs. This study disclosed that JFSFs can be budding ingredient in the development of new food formulations. Further, processing of seeds into flours by various processing methods minimizes waste disposal problems. ','-','Kirthy Reddy M., Rita Narayanan and Sujatha G. (2023). Effect of various Processing Methods on Jack Fruit (Artocarpus heterophyllus) Seed Flours. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 15(11): 168-173.'),(7998,'169','Protocol for Development of Neuro-beverage by Brahmi (Bacopa monnieri) and Kokum (Garcinia indica) for Sensorial Attributes and Bio-chemical Parameters','Gouthami Y., Bhuvaneshwari G., Jameel Jhalegar, Vasant M. Ganiger, Vijayakumar B. Narayanapur, Chandrashekhar V. M. and Anand Nanjappanavar','Protocol-for-development-of-neuro-beverage-by-brahmi-(Bacopa-monnieri)-and-kokum-(Garcinia-indica)-for-sensorial-attributes-and-bio-chemical-parameters-Gouthami-Y-31.pdf','',1,'The rapid increase in neurodegenerative disorder incidence has necessitated the development of newer drugs. Ayurvedic herbal medications are increasingly researched due to their biosafety profile and usefulness in cognitive impairment. Brahmi (Bacopa monnieri) is used as tonic extensively in traditional Indian medicinal system ‘‘Ayurveda’’. The saponins are the major compounds in brahmi which are responsible for enhancing the nerve impulse transmission. Kokum (Garcinia indica) is an ancient fruit which is widely consumed in the form of sharbat in a Western ghats of India. It is a fruit tree of culinary, pharmaceutical and nutraceutical uses. Drumstick (Moringa oleifera) known for their abundant content of antioxidants, including polyphenols and carotenoids. These antioxidants hold promise in the prevention of various chronic degenerative conditions (CDDs). In this investigation, nutritious brahmi juice, kokum juice and drumstick juice (as a constant) were exploit at various combinations (100 : 0 : 0, 0 :100 : 0, 90 : 10 :0, 10 : 90 : 0, 80 : 10 : 10, 10 : 80 : 10, 60 : 30 : 10 and 30 : 60 : 10) for syrup and RTS preparation. Treatment T2 (100 % kokum juice: 8.16) recorded best for colour and appearance. In syrup, the highest value (61.83 ºBrix) for TSS was observed in T3 (90 % brahmi juice +10 % drumstick leaves juice). In case of RTS, the highest value (15.50 ºBrix) for TSS was observed in T7 (60 % brahmi juice + 30 % drumstick leaves juice). In case of syrup, the lowest value (3.24 %) for titratable acidity was observed in T1 (100 % brahmi juice) and in RTS, the highest mean value of titratable acidity was recorded in T2 (100 % kokum juice: 1.53 %). In case of syrup, the treatment T3 (90 % brahmi juice +10 % drumstick leaves juice) recorded highest (18.96) for brix to acid ratio. Similar trend was also observed in RTS. Remarkably, the maximum value for pH was recorded by treatment T1 (100 % brahmi juice: 4.38). Same trend was observed in RTS also the maximum value was recorded by treatment T1 (100 % brahmi juice: 5.72) for pH.','Brahmi, kokum, drumstick leaf, neuro-beverage and RTS','1. T6 (10 % brahmi juice + 80 % kokum juice + 10 % drumstick leaf juice) and T2 (100 % kokum juice) had a better acceptability by the panelists. \r\n2. Among the treatments T1, T3, T5, T7 and T8 showed best results with respect to bio-chemical parameters.\r\n','-','Gouthami Y., Bhuvaneshwari G., Jameel Jhalegar, Vasant M. Ganiger, Vijayakumar B. Narayanapur, Chandrashekhar V. M. and Anand Nanjappanavar (2023). Protocol for Development of Neuro-beverage by Brahmi (Bacopa monnieri) and Kokum (Garcinia indica) for Sensorial Attributes and Bio-chemical Parameters. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 15(11): 174-180.'),(7999,'168','Covid-19: Agricultural Labour Migration in Telangana','Shaik Muneer, D. Kumara Swamy, T. Lavanya and K. Suhasini ','Covid-19-Agricultural-Labour-Migration-in-Telangana-Shaik-Muneer-297.pdf','',1,'The present field study was undertaken to examine the pattern of labour migration due to COVID-19 pandemic and the factors associated with it in Mahbubnagar district of Telangana during 2020-21. Various statistical tools were employed for analysis of the data. It is found that before the pandemic, among the migrant agricultural labourer households majority i.e., 75.00 per cent went for rural to urban migration followed by 25.00 per cent of the went for rural-to-rural migration for agricultural works and during the COVID-19 period, 46.67 per cent of the respondents went for rural to urban migration followed by 30.00 per cent went for rural to rural migration, 23.33 per cent of the respondents went for partially rural to urban migration and partially rural-to-rural migration for agricultural works respectively. Before COVID-19, majority of the migrant agricultural labourers i.e., 48.33 per cent went for inter district migration followed by intra district migration. During COVID-19 period, majority of the migrant labourers i.e., 51.67 per cent went to intra district migration, followed by inter district migration. Major push factors affecting migration of agricultural labourers were predominant rainfed farming at the native place, low standard of living in own village, major pull factors affecting migration were adequate return in non-farm sector adequate employment opportunities in the non-farming sector. Major significant factors affecting duration of migration were number of days of employment, monthly expenditure and dependency ratio with regression co-efficient 0.963, 0.004 and 1.710 respectively. ','Agriculture labourers, Migration and COVID-19','1. Among the sample migrant agricultural labourers, when compared to the before the pandemic, during the COVID-19 pandemic, there was an increase in \'Rural-to-rural migration’ and some of the migrant agricultural labourers who went to ‘Rural-to-urban migration’ were shifted to both ‘Rural-to-rural and rural-to-urban migration\' due to non-availability of work during the pandemic lockdown.\r\n2. Before the pandemic to during the pandemic time, sample migrant agricultural labourers who went for intra district migration was increased followed by inter-district migration was decreased and they shifted to both intra district and inter district type migration and interstate migration was remained the same.\r\n3. Among different factors affecting the duration of migration of agricultural labourers, the variables such as number of days of employment, monthly expenditure and dependency ratio were found positive and significant.\r\n4. Major push factors affecting migration were predominant rainfed farming at the native place followed by the low standard of living the major pull factors affecting migration were adequate returns in the non-farm sector followed by adequate employment opportunities in the non-farming sector outside the village.\r\n','-','Shaik Muneer, D. Kumara Swamy, T. Lavanya and K. Suhasini (2023). Covid-19: Agricultural Labour Migration In Telangana. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 15(10): 1632-1638.'),(8000,'169','Effect of Chemical and Non-chemical Weed Management Practices on Weed Dynamics and Yield of Maize (Zea mays L.)','Hemlata, Kumari P., Ravinder and Kumar H.','Effect-of-Chemical-and-Non-chemical-Weed-Management-Practices-on-Weed-Dynamics-and-Yield-of-Maize-(Zea-mays-L.)-Hemlata-32.pdf','',1,'Weed management through physical means (hand weeding) is laborious and expensive, while use of chemical herbicide resulting in pollution of environment and herbicide-resistant biotypes. Under the situation, integrated weed management approach involving non-chemical (hand weeding, intercropping, mulching etc.) and chemical (use of herbicides) methods in maize is very important to provide effective weed control for realizing high production. Therefore, to study the effect of chemical and non-chemical weed management practices on weed dynamics and yield of maize. The present study was conducted at the Research Farm of the School of Agriculture. Abhilashi University, Mandi (H.P.) during Kharif 2022. The experiment was laid out in randomized block design with three replications, consisting of nine weed management treatments. Results of the study revealed that non-chemical weed management treatments comprised of weed free (hand weeding at 25, 45 and 65 DAS), two hand weeding (25 and 45 DAS) and soybean intercropping + one hand weeding (25 DAS) being at par with each other resulted in significantly lower total weed dry weight, higher weed control efficiency, better crop growth (plant height, number of plants and dry matter accumulation), yield attributes (number of cobs per plant, number of grains per cob and 1000-grain weight) and higher yield (grain and straw) than rest of the chemical and non-chemical weed management treatments. ','Weed management, maize, intercropping, chemical methods, hand weeding, soybean, yield','The study conclusively indicated that non chemical weed management treatments comprised of weed free, two hand weeding and soybean intercropping + one hand weeding being at par with each other resulted in significantly lower weed dry weight, higher weed control efficiency, higher yield attributes and yield (grain and straw) of maize than chemical and other non chemical weed management treatments. ','-','Hemlata, Kumari P., Ravinder and Kumar H. (2023). Effect of Chemical and Non-chemical Weed Management Practices on Weed Dynamics and Yield of Maize (Zea mays L.). Biological Forum – An International Journal, 15(11): 181-185.'),(8001,'169','Phenotypic Characterization of Extended Spectrum Beta-lactamase (ESBL) Producing Bacterial Isolates Recovered from Pharmaceutical Waste Sites','Arun Singha, Bharti Minhas, Naveen Minhas and Diksha Thakur ','Phenotypic-Characterization-of-Extended-Spectrum-Beta-lactamase-(ESBL)-Producing-Bacterial-Isolates-Recovered-from-Pharmaceutical-Waste-Sites-Dr.-Bharti-Minhas-33.pdf','',1,'Extended Spectrum Beta-Lactamases (ESBL) is one of the resistance mechanisms responsible for emergence of antimicrobial resistance (AMR). The occurrence of ESBL producing bacteria in the environment might serve as a resistance reservoir and pose a serious impact on human health. This study investigated the occurrence of ESBL producing bacterial isolates from pharmaceutical waste dumping sites. Soil samples were collected for the purpose and total 42 bacterial isolates were recovered and 17 different genera were identified. Preliminary screening was done using antimicrobial resistance to third generation cephalosporins and further confirmation by double disc diffusion synergy test (DDST). The isolates were most susceptible to cefotaxime (43%) followed by ceftriaxone (38%). In contrast, maximum resistance was observed for aztreonam (83%) and ceftazidime (80.9%) during in-vitro antibiotic cultural sensitivity assay. 51.51% isolates were confirmed as ESBL producers by DDST. Statistical analysis revealed the significant correlation between ESBL production and Multiple antibiotic resistance (MAR) score with p<0.05 for chi-square value of 38.44 at degree of freedom 5. All ESBL producers were having MAR score ranging between 0.8-1.0. Molecular characterization of ESBL genes to understand the specific resistance mechanisms and potential transmission pathways may help in a stronger understanding of the study. The absence of data on the potential impact of these ESBL-producing bacteria on human health and the lack of a longitudinal study design may limit the broader implications of the findings. Incidence of highly resistant bacterial strains in the environmental settings should not be overlooked and strict acquiescence to waste management guidelines is needed. ','Antimicrobial resistance, ESBL, cephalosporins, pharmaceutical waste, DDST','Incidence of antimicrobial resistant strains in pharmaceutical waste dumping sites urges the need of impactful waste disposal policies for Pharmaceutical companies so that release of such notorious superbugs in the environment can be controlled. Cefotaxime can be a drug of choice to treat infections due to these organisms but to comprehend the transmission dynamics and molecular interactions between environmental and clinical isolates there is still a scope of extensive research.','-','Arun Singha, Bharti Minhas, Naveen Minhas and Diksha Thakur (2023). Phenotypic Characterization of Extended Spectrum Beta-lactamase (ESBL) Producing Bacterial Isolates Recovered from Pharmaceutical Waste Sites. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 15(11): 186-192.'),(8002,'169','Genetic Expression of Heterosis for Yield and its Related Traits in Okra (Abelmoschus esculentus L. Moench)','Mori Chandni, G.S. Patel, A.R. Patel and D.L. Sundesha','Genetic-Expression-of-Heterosis-for-Yield-and-its-Related-Traits-in-Okra-(Abelmoschus-esculentus-L.-Moench)-Chandni Vijaysinh Mori-34.pdf','',1,'In the summer-kharif season of 2021, a half-diallel study was executed, utilizing 10 parental lines and generating 45 F1 hybrids. The primary aim was to assess the extent of heterosis compared to mid-parental, superior parental, and the standard commercial reference \"GJOH 3\". The degree of heterosis exhibited variability across different cross combinations for all the traits analyzed. The most notable positive and statistically significant heterosis in terms of fruit yield per plant was witnessed in the GAO 5 × Arka Abhay cross. This particular cross outperformed not only the mid-parental and superior parental references but also surpassed the standard benchmark. The hybrid combination GAO 5 × Arka Abhay demonstrated robust and consistent heterosis as well as inherent performance in fruit yield per plant, suggesting its potential for commercial utilization pending further comprehensive assessment. In the context of genetic expression of heterosis there are several challenges that researchers and breeders may encounter i.e., Identifying specific genes and molecular mechanisms responsible for heterosis in yield is challenging due to the complex and non-additive nature of genetic interactions. Achieving and maintaining sufficient genetic diversity in crops, necessary for harnessing heterosis, can be difficult in cases where the genetic variability is limited. Ensuring the stability of heterotic effects across diverse environments and generations poses a challenge in the genetic expression of heterosis for yield. Developing and producing hybrid seeds on a large scale is logistically challenging, and addressing regulatory and ethical concerns related to genetically modified organisms is essential. High estimates of heterosis obtained in hybrid combinations revealed considerable genetic divergence among the parental lines and also reveals good scope for commercial exploitation of heterosis in okra. ','Heterosis, yield, per se performance, okra, half diallel, hybrid','In conclusion, the half-diallel study provided valuable insights into the extent of heterosis in okra. The GAO 5 × Arka Abhay hybrid emerged as a standout performer, exhibiting significant and consistent heterosis in fruit yield per plant, surpassing not only parental references but also the standard commercial benchmark. However, the genetic expression of heterosis in crop yield poses challenges, including the identification of specific genes and molecular mechanisms, maintaining sufficient genetic diversity, ensuring stability across environments, and addressing logistical, regulatory, and ethical concerns. Despite these challenges, the study highlights the promising potential for commercial exploitation of heterosis in okra through strategic breeding and further comprehensive assessments.','-','Mori Chandni, G.S. Patel, A.R. Patel and D.L. Sundesha (2023). Genetic Expression of Heterosis for Yield and its Related Traits in Okra (Abelmoschus esculentus L. Moench). Biological Forum – An International Journal, 15(11): 193-196.'),(8003,'169','Effect of Different Fertilizer Levels and Method of jeevamrut Application on Growth of Broccoli (Brassica oleracea var. italica) cv. Palam Samridhi','K.V. Chaudhary, P.C. Joshi and S.P. Chaudhari ','Effect-of-Different-Fertilizer-Levels-and-Method-of-jeevamrut-Application-on-Growth-of-Broccoli-(Brassica-oleracea-var.-italica)-cv.-Palam-Samridhi-KV-Chaudhary-35.pdf','',1,'Unscientific use of chemicals in agriculture leads to several health hazards and environmental problems. To protect our crops and the environment, we must follow sustainable and ecological agriculture that minimizes the use of harmful chemical inputs and embraces the use of biofertilizers. With this in mind, an experiment titled “Effect of different fertilizer levels and method of jeevamrut application on growth of broccoli (Brassica oleracea var. italica) cv. Palam Samridhi” was conducted during rabi season 2020-21 and 2021-22 at College Farm, College of Horticulture, S.D.A.U., Jagudan, Mehsana, Gujarat. The experiment was arranged in Randomized Block Design with factorial concept (FRBD) with three replications containing twenty seven treatment combinations of fertilizer levels and method of jeevamrut application. The observed parameters were plant height (cm), number of leaves per plant, plant spread (cm), days required for head initiation, days required for head harvest. The findings showed that increased growth of broccoli can be achieved through 80% of the recommended rates of nitrogen, phosphorus and potash, along with soil application of jeevamrut @ 500 l/ha at the time of transplanting and 30 days after transplanting, in conjunction with foliar application @ 4% at 25 and 50 days after transplantation.','Broccoli, Palam Samridhi, NPK, Jeevamrut','On the basis of experimental evidence, combined application of 80% recommended dose of nitrogen, phosphorous and potash with the soil application of jeevamrut @ 500 l/ha drenching at the time of transplanting and 30 days after transplanting and foliar application @ 4% at an interval of 25 and 50 days after transplanting results in higher growth from broccoli cultivation.','-','K.V. Chaudhary, P.C. Joshi and S.P. Chaudhari (2023). Effect of Different Fertilizer Levels and Method of jeevamrut Application on Growth of Broccoli (Brassica oleracea var. italica) cv. Palam Samridhi. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 15(11): 197-201.'),(8004,'169','Exploring the Diverse Effects of Growth Hormones on Crops: A Review','Rajat Yadav, Dharmendra Bahadur Singh, Ranjitha G., Rajat Kumar Pathak, Saurabh Kumar, Akash Sharma, Gayatri Sinha and Rahul Kumar ','Exploring-the-Diverse-Effects-of-Growth-Hormones-on-Crops-A-Review-Rahul-Kumar-36.pdf','',1,'The multifaceted impact of growth hormones is on crops, aiming to enhance our understanding of their diverse effects. Employing a systematic approach, various growth hormones, including auxins, cytokinins, gibberellins, abscisic acid and ethylene were applied to different crops. The research explores the hormones\' influence on plant growth, development, yield, and stress responses. Results reveal nuanced outcomes, with some hormones demonstrating stimulatory effects on shoot elongation and flowering, while others exhibit more pronounced impacts on root development and fruit maturation. By comprehensively the varied effects of growth hormones, contributes valuable insights to optimize their application in agriculture for improved crop productivity, resource efficiency, and stress resilience. The dynamic nature of environmental factors such as soil quality, temperature fluctuations, and water availability presents hurdles in isolating the specific impacts of individual hormones on crop growth. Despite the challenges, this review consolidates existing research to offer a comprehensive understanding of the intricate roles played by plant growth hormones in crop development.','Growth hormones, Flower, Germination, Inhibitor, Auxin, Cytokinin','The diverse effects of growth hormones on crops underscore the intricate relationship between plant physiology and external stimuli. The extensive research highlighted in this exploration demonstrates that growth hormones can serve as powerful tools for manipulating plant growth, development, and yield. From enhancing flowering and fruiting to regulating height and branching, these compounds offer valuable solutions for grower aiming to optimize crop production. ','-','Rajat Yadav, Dharmendra Bahadur Singh, Ranjitha G., Rajat Kumar Pathak, Saurabh Kumar, Akash Sharma, Gayatri Sinha and Rahul Kumar (2023). Exploring the Diverse Effects of Growth Hormones on Crops: A Review. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 15(11): 202-207.'),(8005,'150','Larvicidal Effect of Asparagus racemosus and Induced Biochemical Changes in Rhynchophorus ferrugineus (Olivier)','Chandana J.S. and Ajitha V.S.','Larvicidal-Effect-of-Asparagus-racemosus-and-Induced-Biochemical-Changes-in-Rhynchophorus-ferrugineus-(Olivier)-Ajitha-VS-124.pdf','',1,'The Red Palm Weevil (RPW), Rhynchophorus ferrugineus (Olivier), is a serious insect pest which attacks coconut trees. Control of RPW is difficult due to the concealed nature of the life cycle of the pest. The present study investigates the insecticidal potential of of Asparagus racemosus extracts against this serious pest of the coconut palm. The ethanolic extract of Asparagus was found to be most effective in causing a high rate of mortality in fourth-instar larvae. The LD50 value of plant extract was 1041.08. After treating with sublethal concentration of the extract, the larvae showed significant alterations in enzyme assays and nucleic acid level. The results of this study obviously indicate the presence of phytochemicals having insecticidal potential in this plant extract. Qualitative analysis of plant extract revealed presence of several secondary metabolites. Botanical pesticides can be an effective alternative to chemical pesticides to reduce environmental as well as health hazards.','Asparagus racemosus, Rhynchophorous ferrugineus, LD 50, Enzyme assay, Botanical pesticide ','The results obtained in this study Asparagus racemosus extract-treated insects clearly indicate that the extract cause mortality in larvae by disrupting the normal metabolic pathway in the insect body. Enzyme assays conducted in both control and experimental larvae provide information regarding the stress induced by the plant extract, which eventually resulted in high larval mortality rate. Qualitative analysis of the ethanol extract of Asparagus revealed the presence of many phytochemicals which have known insecticidal properties.','-','Chandana J.S. and Ajitha V.S. (2023). Larvicidal Effect of Asparagus racemosus and Induced Biochemical Changes in Rhynchophorus ferrugineus (Olivier). Biological Forum – An International Journal, 15(3): 798-804.'),(8006,'150','Well Water Quality in Ernakulam District: A Snapshot of the State of Drinking Water in Kerala','Feebarani John','Well-Water-Quality-in-Ernakulam-District-A-Snapshot-of-the-State-of-Drinking-Water-in-Kerala-Feebarani-John-125.pdf','',1,'Well water quality was analysed in selected sites of Eranakulam district, Kerala. The study indicated significant variations in groundwater quality parameters across the selected areas. While most parameters were within permissible limits, the prevalence of E. coli contamination in a majority of the samples raised concerns about the safety of drinking water in the region. Magnesium content was also above the permissible limit in a few sites. 91% of the well water in the study area was not suitable for drinking. The distinct clustering of certain stations suggested varying sources or factors influencing the groundwater quality in those areas. Present study aimed to shed light on the water quality in the southern state of Kerala and its broader implications for India as a whole.','Wells in Kerala, Water quality, Ernakulam, Contamination','The assessment of groundwater quality in selected villages of Ernakulam district during the pre-monsoon period reveals both positive and concerning results. While most physicochemical parameters were within acceptable limits, the widespread bacterial contamination necessitates immediate action to ensure access to safe drinking water. The cluster analysis provides valuable insights into the spatial distribution of groundwater quality and can aid in targeted interventions to address water quality issues in specific regions. The present study highlights the need for regular monitoring of groundwater quality in Ernakulam district and other parts of Kerala. Further research and monitoring efforts are essential to safeguard groundwater resources and protect public health in the studied area. Overall, the findings of the present study provide valuable insights into the groundwater quality in Ernakulam district. These insights can be used to improve the management of groundwater resources and protect public health in the region.','-','Feebarani John (2023). Well Water Quality in Ernakulam District: A Snapshot of the State of Drinking Water in Kerala. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 15(3): 805-808.'),(8007,'150','Toxicity of Zinc Oxide Nanoparticles from Myristica fragrans on Striped Panchax (Aplocheilus lineatus)','Nandini, N.J., Renjusha, S., Siny G. Benjamin, Sajeeb Khan, A., Ayana Gayathri, R.V. and Shruthi, P. ','Toxicity-of-Zinc-Oxide-Nanoparticles-from-Myristica-fragrans-on-Striped-Panchax-(Aplocheilus-lineatus)-Nandini-NJ-126.pdf','',1,'The toxicity of Zinc Oxide nanoparticles from Myristica fragrans on striped panchax (Aplocheilus lineatus) was investigated in the present study. Usually, nanoparticles are synthesized chemically but safer synthesis methods are used to prevent risk for living organisms and the environment. Extracts of a diverse range of plant species have been successfully used in making nanoparticles. In the present study, zinc oxide nanoparticles are manufactured in the green synthesis method. The extracted powder was characterized and the synthesis of the nanoparticles was confirmed with UV-visible spectroscopy, IR spectroscopy, Scanning Electron Microscopy (SEM), and X-Ray Diffraction Technique (XRD). UV–visible absorption spectrum of synthesized nanoparticles is centred around 350 nm for ZNPs. In IR spectroscopy, the peaks were observed at 1600 and 500 cm−1 which correspond to Zn–O stretching and deformation vibration, respectively. SEM images clearly showed the existence of zinc oxide nanoparticles in spherical and crystalline form. XRD analysis showed a particle size of 25.26 nm. Toxicity evaluation was conducted on striped panchax (Aplocheilus lineatus) for 72 h. Three groups of the experiment fish were exposed to different concentrations (10, 50 and 100 mg/L) of ZnO nanoparticles. All the exposed fishes were daily observed and dead fishes were immediately removed and recorded. The obtained data were statistically analyzed using probit regression method. The LC50 value in the present study was found to be 47.86 mg/L for striped panchax, which makes this nanoparticle as a low toxicity substance in terms of toxicity classification. Based on the obtained LC50 it was revealed that the green nanoparticles synthesis is much less hazardous and a good alternative technique.','Nanoparticles, Zinc oxide nanoparticles, Acute toxicity, Nanotechnology, LC50','The primary objectives of this study were to synthesise zinc oxide nanoparticles using leaf extracts from Myristica leaf and to assess the detrimental effects of these particles on striped panchax. The ZnO NPs were successfully synthesized by the biological method and it was found to be simple, cheap, safer and eco-friendly than the chemical and physical methods.\r\nThe precise development of the nanoparticle was validated by the characterization analysis. The outcomes of this study suggest that biologically synthesized nanoparticles pose less threat to aquatic organisms compared to chemically prepared nanomaterials, based on the obtained LC50 values. Because of their species diversity, plants can be thought of as the primary option for the synthesis of nanoparticles and should be viewed as an alternative to chemical methods. Since green synthesis is less expensive, creates less pollution, and improves the safety of the environment and human health, it is preferable to traditional chemical synthesis. The development of green synthetic methods has been driven by the increasing demand for green chemistry and nanotechnology.\r\n','-','Nandini, N.J., Renjusha, S., Siny G. Benjamin, Sajeeb Khan, A., Ayana Gayathri, R.V. and Shruthi, P. (2023). Toxicity of Zinc Oxide Nanoparticles from Myristica fragrans on Striped Panchax (Aplocheilus lineatus). Biological Forum – An International Journal, 15(3): 809-814.'),(8008,'150','An Investigation of Water Hardness in Household Open Wells across Six Districts in Kerala','Feebarani John','An-Investigation-of-Water-Hardness-in-Household-Open-Wells-across-Six-Districts-in-Kerala-Feebarani-John-127.pdf','',1,'Water hardness refers to the amount of dissolved calcium and magnesium in water. It is a critical factor in determining the quality of water, especially for drinking and irrigation purposes. This study assessed the levels of calcium and magnesium in drinking water from household open wells in Kerala, India. Altogether 132 well water samples were collected from six districts. The results showed that the concentrations range of calcium and magnesium were 5-95 mg/l and 0-77.5 mg/l, respectively. In majority of sites, the concentration levels were within the BIS guidelines for drinking water quality. However, magnesium content was above the desirable limit in 4% of the samples at Ernakulam and Palakkad districts and it was 9% with respect to Kannur district. 4% of the well water has calcium content above the desirable limit at Malapuram and Palakkad district. But it was understood that it did not have any adverse effects on the health of people who drank the water. The results of this study suggest that the levels of calcium and magnesium in drinking water from household open wells in Kerala are generally safe, but there is some variation between the wells. Further studies are needed to investigate the health implications of these variations.','Water hardness, calcium, magnesium, drinking water, household open wells, Kerala','Calcium and magnesium are two essential minerals that are naturally found in water and their levels in drinking water can have a significant impact on human health outcomes. The present assessed the calcium and magnesium content of 132 household open wells in the state of Kerala, India. The overall levels of calcium and magnesium in the drinking water samples were found to be within the permissible limits set by the BIS. Even though there were some samples that exceeded the BIS limits for calcium and magnesium, it does not have any adverse effect on people who consumed the water. The study recognizes the significance of understanding the mineral composition of drinking water, as imbalances in calcium and magnesium concentrations can have potential health implications. It is known that calcium and magnesium in drinking water may have beneficial effects on cardiovascular health, diabetes mellitus, stroke, and chronic kidney disease. The findings of the present study contribute to the existing body of knowledge on water quality and offer valuable insights for public health officials, policymakers, and individuals concerned about the safety and health aspects of drinking water sourced from open wells. The development of new technologies like the use of remote sensing will allow more efficient and cost-effective monitoring of water quality. As new technologies emerge, we will be able to better understand the health benefits of these minerals and ensure that our water supplies are safe and healthy. Further research would involve conducting epidemiological studies to assess if there are any correlations between the mineral levels and specific health outcomes. Conducting longitudinal studies over an extended period could provide valuable insights into the changes in calcium and magnesium levels in well water. Future research could explore potential associations between mineral levels and the presence of other harmful substances in the well water. This broader analysis would provide a more comprehensive understanding of the water quality and potential risks associated with drinking water from open wells.','-','Feebarani John (2023). An Investigation of Water Hardness in Household Open Wells across Six Districts in Kerala. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 15(3): 815-821.'),(8009,'150','Commonly Used Food Preservative and Antioxidant BHT Alter the Expression of Gene in Steroidogenic Pathway and Affect Gonadal Architecture','Biny, N.B., Binitha, R.N. and Paul Thomas','Commonly Used Food Preservative and Antioxidant BHT Alter the Expression of Gene in Steroidogenic Pathway and Affect Gonadal Architecture-Binitha RN-128.pdf','',1,'Terrestrial and aquatic life is being influenced by the exposure with various manmade chemicals. BHT is a common antioxidant used in food preservation, cosmetics, and industry. European federation of Endocrine disruption categories BHT as Number 1 priority substance causing endocrine disruption. Studies till date mainly focuses on the allergic, antioxidant, and carcinogenic properties of BHT. It has been recommended by the EFSA (European Food Safety Authority) to study the reproductive properties of the compound to ensure its safety as a food additive. In present study we have analysed the estrogenic/anti-estrogenic or androgenic effect of BHT using FSTRA assay (tier 1 screening assay used for identifying Endocrine Disruptions). Two test doses (T1- 15 mg/Kg.bwt and T2- 30 mg/Kg.bwt) of BHT were administered in fish twice a week. Aromatase gene expression was studied by RT PCR and Quantified the expression of gene in the gonad. We found an up regulation of aromatase gene. Aromatase gene is involved in the synthesis of aromatase enzyme which convert androgen in to estrogen. Histopathological observation of the testis and ovary of the treated fish compare to the control fish, the following pathological feature decreased number of mature sperms (MS), primordial germ cells (PGC), and increased number of impaired germ cells (IGC). General atrophy (GA) or testicular atrophy (TA), interstitial fibrosis (IFB), and Leydig cell hyperplasia (LCH) with vacant spaces in the seminiferous tubules (ST). Histopathology of ovary degeneration of vitellogenic oocyte (DVO), primary oocyte (PO), secondary oocyte (SO) and mature oocytes (MO) (A). Degeneration of vitellogenic oocyte or degeneration of oocyte (DVO or DO).','BHT, Aromatase gene, FSTRA assay, RTPCR, Histopathological study','The gonadal effect of antioxidant butylated hydroxytoluene (BHT) in Anabas testudineus was investigated for short-term (14 days) and long-term periods (28 days). The examination was based on the histopathological observations of the tissues. Pathological significance was noted in the testis and was devoid in the ovary. The results obtained from this study provide a preliminary data for further evaluation of the effects of BHT on gonads. Long-term monitoring and continuous assessment in different animal models are imperative to obtain further insights into the properties of BHT and its effect on gonads. Aromatase gene expression study by RT PCR gives the information that the compound BHT effect the steroidogenic pathway.','-','Biny, N.B., Binitha, R.N. and Paul Thomas (2023). Commonly Used Food Preservative and Antioxidant BHT Alter the Expression of Gene in Steroidogenic Pathway and Affect Gonadal Architecture. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 15(3): 822-828.'),(8010,'156','Impact of Land Use on the Soil Quality of Kuttanad Region, Kerala','Higgins Robert and Dhanush D.M. ','Impact-of-Land-Use-on-the-Soil-Quality-of-Kuttanad-Region,-Kerala-Higgins-Robert-153.pdf','',1,'Changes in land use and improper soil management have led to severe land degradation around the globe through the modification of soil physicochemical and biological processes. This study aimed to assess the soil properties of different land use system types. Soil samples (0-15 cm depth) were collected from three land uses Paddy field, Settlement with Mixed Trees (SMT), and urban area, and analysed for physical parameters like Bulk density, Particle density, Porosity, Water Holding Capacity, Electrical Conductivity (EC) and chemical parameters like soil pH, Soil Organic Carbon (SOC), Cation Exchange Capacity (CEC), Phosphorous, Potassium, and Magnesium. Soil pH was 6.32 in urban, 5.25 in SMT and 3.80 in Paddy indicating that the surface soil was acidic. The SOC is low in SMT (5.25), Urban (3.06), and paddy (6.006) indicating declining soil fertility in SMT and Urban areas. The high level of phosphorous in SMT (37.38 Kg/ha) and Urban (25.984 Kg/ha) also shows the discharge of effluents in these land uses. The findings demonstrated that significant effect of land use change on soil nutrient status and organic matter. Findings also that land use change deteriorated native soil and physicochemical and biological properties.','Soil Nutrient, Physicochemical, Biological, Land Degradation, Land Use','Land-use change has caused extensive biophysical impacts in terms of soil and water quality deterioration in the Kuttanad region. Land-use change was responsible for significant fluctuations in soil physical parameters like bulk density, particle density, porosity, WHC, and EC. It also affected the chemical soil quality parameters like soil pH, SOC, CEC, soil ‘P’, ‘K’, and ‘Mg’ stocks. All these fluctuations in soil physico-chemical parameters were more significant in the SMT (Settlement with mixed trees) and built-up lands. The soil quality index demonstrates that the paddy land transformation has a serious effect on soil degradation. ','-','Higgins Robert and Dhanush D.M. (2023). Impact of Land Use on the Soil Quality of Kuttanad Region, Kerala. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 15(4): 919-925.'),(8011,'156','Comparison of Chitosan Stabilised Ascorbic Acid with Ascorbyl-2-polyphosphate and Crystalline L-ascorbic Acid on Growth, Survival and Whole-body Ascorbic Acid Concentration in the Freshwater Prawn, Macrobrachium rosenbergii (de Man)','Hari B. and Jisha, S.','Comparison-of-Chitosan-Stabilised-Ascorbic-Acid-with-Ascorbyl-2-polyphosphate-and-Crystalline-L-ascorbic-Acid-on-Growth-Survival-and-Whole-body-Ascorbic-Acid-Concentration-in-the-Freshwater-Pra-HARI-154.pdf','',1,'The effects of diet supplementation using chitosan stabilized ascorbic acid (CSAA), ascorbyl-2-polyphosphate (ASPP), crystalline L-ascorbic acid (AA) at 250 mg ascorbic acid equivalent (AAE) kg-1 diet and a diet devoid of ascorbic acid (C) was studied using juvenile Macrobrachium rosenbergii prawns in a 50-day feeding trial. Ascorbic acid retention (%) after feed processing, leaching, and storage revealed that both CSAA and ASPP were significantly more heat and water stable than AA. Prawns had an initial weight of 64 ±0.02 mg. Prawns fed CSAA had a significantly higher survival rate (100%) compared to those fed ASPP (86.7%), AA (53.3%), or C (36.7%). Weight gain (%) and specific growth rate (SGR) of prawns fed with diets ASPP and CSAA were significantly higher than those fed with diets C and AA. Whole Body Ascorbic Acid (WBAA) concentration was significantly higher in prawns, fed diets supplemented with CSAA and ASPP compared to those received diet AA and C. The results indicated that chitosan stabilised ascorbic acid in a heat-stable, water-insoluble, and bioavailable form for M. rosenbergii juveniles provides a comparable growth performance, WBAA content, and better survival compared to the commercial stabilised ascorbic acid formulation: ascorbyl-2-polyphosphate.','Ascorbic acid, Vitamin C, Feed evaluation, Freshwater prawn, Macrobrachium rosenbergii, Whole-body ascorbic acid','The dietary ascorbic acid sources CSAA and ASPP have a stronger influence on the growth and survival of M. rosenbergii compared to crystalline L-ascorbic acid. At the standard concentration (250 mg AAE kg-1 diet) used in all supplemented diets, the heat-labile and highly water-soluble nature of crystalline L-ascorbic acid resulted in low survival, low WBAA concentrations, and poor growth performance when compared to CSAA and ASPP supplemented diets. Under the present experimental conditions, we conclude that chitosan stabilised ascorbic acid developed by the Central Institute of Fisheries Technology, Cochin, India is heat stable, water-insoluble, bio-available and has an antiscorbutic activity similar to ascorbyl-2-polyphosphate in the diets for M. rosenbergii juveniles.','-','Hari B. and Jisha, S. (2023) Comparison of Chitosan Stabilised Ascorbic Acid with Ascorbyl-2-polyphosphate and Crystalline L-ascorbic Acid on Growth, Survival and Whole-body Ascorbic Acid Concentration in the Freshwater Prawn, Macrobrachium rosenbergii (de Man). Biological Forum – An International Journal, 15(4): 926-935.'),(8012,'156','Trail of Biofilm Research: As Microbial Tool for Ecological and Industrial Application','Revathy P.K. and Abraham, K.M. ','Trail-of-Biofilm-Research-As-Microbial-Tool-for-Ecological-and-Industrial-Application-Kurian-Mathew-Abraham-155.pdf','',1,'Biofilms are consortium of microbes of different origin embedded in extra polymeric matrix, which is composed of carbohydrates, extracellular DNA and secreted proteins. A biofilm may be of a single species microbe or a combination of different species and/or groups including bacteria, virus and fungus. Bacterial biofilm formation relies on bacterial cells, substrates, surrounding media and its formation is a complex process involving reversible attachment followed by irreversible attachment phase, Extra Polymeric Substance (EPS) production, biofilm maturation phase and a final detachment phase. Biofilms are found and formed in aquatic environments well rather than other terrestrial or xerophytic conditions, where the ecosystem supports microbial growth. Biofilm in nature have both beneficial and detrimental effects of which, negative effects in health care, drinking water distribution systems, food and marine industries etc. are highlighted and studied well, which resulted studies on inhibition and control of biofilms. Despite the harmful effects, biofilms serve beneficial roles in a variety of fields including bioremediation, waste water treatment, corrosion inhibition, heavy metal remediation and so on. This review elaborates the positive and negative aspects of biofilms of bacterial origin in various fields and highlights the need to encourage the formation of beneficial bacterial biofilms.','Biofilms, Bioremediation, Extra Polymeric Matrix, Bacterial consortium','Biofilm represents the predominant life style adopted by bacteria in most of the natural as well as manmade environment. Biofilm investigations have vast potential in terms of its formation, adhesion, detachment and characteristic features. Its phenomenal use and adaptability has great scope in biotechnological as well as environmental studies. There is a lot of scope to study the characteristics of biofilms in different application mentioned in the review and also to compare their characteristics. Moreover, the review provides a clear understanding of the complexity of biofilms and the harmful as well as beneficial aspects of biofilms that are ubiquitous in nature. Therapies existing now will not be effective for controlling diseases due to the emergence of highly resistant strains and also they are targeting the planktonic phase of bacteria. So the future course of action would be directed to find novel and effective treatments that target the biofilm mode of life of bacteria. For this we should have a better understanding of the genes and proteins that are differentially expressed under biofilm and planktonic growth conditions. Moreover, beneficial biofilm formation can be encouraged in many industrial and environmental areas through modifications.','-','Revathy P.K. and Abraham, K.M. (2023). Trail of Biofilm Research: As Microbial Tool for Ecological and Industrial Application. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 15(4): 936-945.'),(8013,'156','Molluscan Diversity along the Selected Beaches of Kerala Coast, India','Siny G. Benjamin, Meera Nair and Nandini, N.J. ','Molluscan-Diversity-along-the-Selected-Beaches-of-Kerala-Coast-India-Siny-G-Benjamin-156.pdf','',1,'Molluscs form a major group of organisms that makes up an integral part of ecosystems. The present study documented a survey of molluscan fauna from selected beaches in Kerala and recorded a total of 48 species classified under two classes (Gastropoda and Bivalvia). The species diversity was dominated by the Gastropoda (38) followed by the Bivalvia (9) and most of the Gastropods belonged to the order Neogastropoda. The highest molluscan diversity was observed in Kovalam. The study was conducted from July 2019 to February 2020.','Molluscs, Gastropoda, Bivalvia, Diversity, Kerala','For the implementation of sustainable usage of gastropod resources and for the adoption of appropriate conservation measures, a complete understanding of the diversity of gastropod molluscs found in the coastal system is a prerequisite. For endangered species, conservation and stock-enhancement techniques must also be put into practice. These kinds of studies will be useful for developing countermeasures to overexploitation and for developing preventative measures for maintaining good species diversity.','-','Siny G. Benjamin, Meera Nair and Nandini, N.J. (2023). Molluscan Diversity along the Selected Beaches of Kerala Coast, India. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 15(4): 946-950.'),(8014,'169','First Report of Mole Cricket, Gryllotalpa Gorkhana Ingrisch (Gryllotalpidae: Orthoptera) in Gujarat, India','Barad C. S., Rabari P. H., Gothi H. R., Thakar P. K. and Patel P. S.','First-Report-of-Mole-Cricket-Gryllotalpa-Gorkhana-Ingrisch-(Gryllotalpidae-Orthoptera)-in-Gujarat-India-Barad-CS-37.pdf','',1,'The mole cricket Gryllotalpa is an evolutionarily, medicinal, and agriculturally significant insect that inhabits underground environments and is distributed globally. The objective of the study was to look at the potato pests that are significant commercially in Northern Gujarat\'s main potato-growing districts. A new insect pest, the mole cricket (Gryllotalpa gorkhana), was discovered to be destroying the potato crop among the other pests that were seen. Damage to foliage, roots, tubers, and stem tissue can be inflicted by both adults and nymphs. Girdling the stems on the soil\'s surface and tunneling on the soil\'s surface are two prevalent infestation forms in seedling plants that have the potential to uproot the seedlings. Adults have forelimbs resembling shovels and measure around 20 mm in length. Its pronotum is big and oblong in nature, and its short antennae are filiform in kind. The small, rounded fore wings are followed by longer, membranous hind wings that extend upward.','Gryllotalpa gorkhana, infestation, mole cricket and potato','The paper deal with one species, Gryllotalpa gorkhana (Gryllotalpidae) recorded from different district locations of Banaskantha, Sabarkantha, Gandhinagar, Aravalli, Mehsana and Patan under jurisdiction S. D. Agricultural University, Sardarkrushinagar. Therefore, new record of Gryllotalpidae distribution in northern Gujarat has been identified. ','-','Barad C. S., Rabari P. H., Gothi H. R., Thakar P. K. and Patel P. S. (2023). First Report of Mole Cricket, Gryllotalpa Gorkhana Ingrisch (Gryllotalpidae: Orthoptera) in Gujarat, India . Biological Forum – An International Journal, 15(11): 208-209.'),(8015,'169','Comparative Efficacy of Natural Farming, Organic and Inorganic Systems of Nutrition in Transplanted Rice','Kumar H., Kumari P., Ravinder and Hemlata ','Comparative-Efficacy-of-Natural-Farming,-Organic-and-Inorganic-Systems-of-Nutrition-in-Transplanted-Rice-Kumar-H-38.pdf','',1,': Continuous use of chemical fertilizers has been reported to cause various detrimental effects on physical and chemical properties of soils and ecological pollutions. Use of organics (FYM, Jeevamrit etc.) are eco-friendly and sustain productivity but their limited availability and low nutrient status are major constraints. Under the situation, the addition of organic manures in combination with chemical fertilizers is reliable option. Therefore, to study the comparative efficacy of natural farming, organic and inorganic systems of nutrition in transplanted rice the present study was conducted at the Research Farm of the School of Agriculture, Abhilashi University, Mandi (H.P.) during Kharif 2022. Six nutrient management treatments were tested in randomized block design with three replications. Results of study revealed that inorganic nutrient management and integrated nutrient management i.e. 50 per cent recommended dose of fertilizers + FYM @5 t/ha behaving alike resulted in better crop growth (plant height, number of tillers and dry matter accumulation), yield attributes (number of effective tillers, number of grains per panicle and 1000-grain weight) and higher yield (grain and straw) of transplanted rice than farmer’s practice (FYM @2.5 t/ha + 25 per cent recommended dose of fertilizers) and organic (biofertilizers + Jeevamrit + FYM @10 t/ha) as well as natural farming nutrient management (Beejamrit + Jeevamrit + Ghanjeevamrit) practices.','Nutrient management, fertilizer, transplanted rice, organic, natural farming, integrated','The study conclusively indicated that inorganic and integrated nutrient management proved superior to organic farming and natural farming nutrient management in terms of growth attributes (plant height, number of tillers and dry matter accumulation), yield attributes (number of effective tillers and number of grains per panicle) and yield (grain and straw) of transplanted rice. ','-','Kumar H., Kumari P., Ravinder and Hemlata (2023). Comparative Efficacy of Natural Farming, Organic and Inorganic Systems of Nutrition in Transplanted Rice. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 15(11): 210-213.'),(8016,'169','Potential Effect of Integrated Nutrient Management on Growth Parameter and Yield of Chickpea (Cicer arietinum L.)','Kalyani Meravi, Kamal Kishor Patel, Ajay Kumar Shah, Shekhar Singh Baghel, Kailash Kumar and Alpana Kumhare ','Potential-Effect-of-Integrated-Nutrient-Management-on-Growth-Parameter-and-Yield-of-Chickpea-(Cicer-arietinum-L.)-Ajay-Kumar-Shah-39.pdf','',1,'A field experiment was conducted at the Department of Soil Science and Agriculture Chemistry, CoA, JNKVV, Jabalpur, during Rabi season 2021–22 to investigate the effect of Integrated Nutrient Management (INM) on chickpea production. The experiment involved three replications and three main treatments: 0% NPK at 20:60:20 kg ha-1, 50% NPK at 20:60:20 kg ha-1, and 100% NPK at 20:60:20 kg ha-1. Six sub-treatments of vermicompost plus biofertilizer treatments were also tested: T1vermicompost + (Rhizobium + PSB), T2 vermicompost + (Rhizobium + KSB), and T3 vermicompost + (Rhizobium + PSB + KSB), T4 vermicompost + (Rhizobium + PSB + KSB + Trichoderma), T5 vermicompost + (Rhizobium + PSB + KSB + Trichoderma + Pseudomonas), and T6 (control) have the same effect on the productivity of chickpeas. The results showed that different variations in vermicompost and biofertilizer had different effects on chickpea plant height, nodules in plant-1, chlorophyll content in leaves, and pod plant -1 at harvest. The highest response was observed in 100% NPK + VC + (Rhizobium + PSB + KSB + Trichoderma + pseudomonas), with a maximum response of 28.51 pods plant-1, 25% more than the control. The seed and straw yield of chickpea in 100% NPK + VC + (Rhizobium + PSB + KSB + Trichoderma + pseudomonas) was also significantly higher, with 18.41 qha-1, 28% more than the control.','Chlorophyll, Pseudomonas, Rhizobium, Vermicompost etc','The treatments of NPK 100+ VC+ Rhizobium +PSB+ KSB+ Trichoderma+ pseudomonas influence almost every parameter under study. This seemed to indicate that co-inoculation with different microbial cultures performed better than that of individual ones; application of the microbial consortia positively influenced parameters like plant height, nodulation, chlorophyll content, number of pods, seed yield, and straw yield.','-','Kalyani Meravi, Kamal Kishor Patel, Ajay Kumar Shah, Shekhar Singh Baghel, Kailash Kumar and Alpana Kumhare (2023). Potential Effect of Integrated Nutrient Management on Growth Parameter and Yield of Chickpea (Cicer arietinum L.). Biological Forum – An International Journal, 15(11): 214-217.'),(8017,'169','Genetic Divergence analysis in Confectionery Peanut (Arachis hypogaea L.)','Suresh Gali, D.L. Reddy, A. Prasanna Rajesh, K. John, P. Sudhakar and V. Srinivasa Rao','Genetic-Divergence-analysis-in-Confectionery-Peanut-(Arachis-hypogaea-L.)-Suresh-Gali-40.pdf','',1,'Genetic diversity in the experimental material is generally measured as a very important criterion for choosing hereditarily dissimilar parents necessary for well-organized and successful hybridization programme, which in turn results in the production of high yielding lines. There is a greater likelihood of promising and desired cultivars emerging in crop species with higher genetic variability. Quantifying the degree of genetic diversity among genotypes can be most effectively accomplished with the D2 methodology, which Mahalanobis (1936) developed based on multivariate analysis. The 65 genotypes were divided into 10 clusters, with cluster IV having the highest number of genotypes (28) and clusters VI, VII and X had only single genotype. Maximum inter cluster D2 value was observed between cluster IX and cluster X. Diversity analysis concluding that geographic diversity was not associated to genetic diversity, as genotypes from the same eco-geographic origin were divided into separate clusters without creating a single cluster. Cluster VI, VII, VIII, IX and X recorded high cluster mean values for most of the yield contributing and quality characters. The trait linoleic acid content contributed maximum variation to total variation.','D2 analysis, Genetic divergence, Peanut','It is recommended that the character with highest contribution towards divergence should be given significance in selection of parents for hybridization programme. In view of the cluster distances and cluster means in the current examination, importance should be given to crosses between genotypes belonging to cluster IX and cluster X in order to get transgressive segregants. Genotypes namely, ICGV 171004 and ICGV 171002 recorded significantly very high oleic content and so, these genotypes may be used as sources for increasing of oleic acid in peanut lines in future breeding programmes.','-','Suresh Gali, D.L. Reddy, A. Prasanna Rajesh, K. John, P. Sudhakar and V. Srinivasa Rao (2023). Genetic Divergence analysis in Confectionery Peanut (Arachis hypogaea L.). Biological Forum – An International Journal, 15(11): 218-222.'),(8018,'169','Efficacy of Salt Tolerant Plant Growth Promoting Bacterial Liquid Consortium on Growth and Yield of Wheat (Triticum aestivum L.)','Saiyad M.M., Vyas R.V., Mevada K.D. and Patel H.K. ','Efficacy-of-Salt-Tolerant-Plant-Growth-Promoting-Bacterial-Liquid-Consortium-on-Growth-and-Yield-of-Wheat-(Triticum-aestivum-L.)-Rajababu-V.-Vyas-41.pdf','',1,'Feeding an overgrowing population with limited availability of fertile land is the burning issue for sustainable agriculture. To provide more production but not at the cost of pollution and soil fertility degradation is the real challenge for the future. Plant growth promoting bacteria are nature’s gift to mankind to overcome this situation. Looking to this aspect, the present study has been designed. The field experiment for consecutive 2 years were conducted to evaluate the efficacy of native ST-PGPB consortium Bio NP liquid formulation on growth and yield attributes of wheat. The experiments were conducted in randomized block design during the Rabi 2018-19 and 2019-20, respectively. There was significant difference observed in plant height at harvest and in yield attributing characters like, number of total tillers and effective tillers per meter row length, grains per spike, straw and grain yield. However, the results were non-significant differences in plant population, plant height at 30 DAS and on test weight of wheat under field condition. Treatment T4 (50 % RDF + 25 % N by Castor cake + Bio NP) found superior to other treatments for all growth and yield attributing parameters, grain yield (2500 kg/ha) and straw yield (4997 kg/ha) and remained at par with treatments T1(100 % RDF) followed by T3(75 % RDF + Bio NP) and T5(50 % RDF + 25 % N by Vermicompost + Bio NP), respectively. Treatment T2 (75 % RDF) found inferior for growth parameters and yield attributes of wheat.','Plant growth promoting bacterial consortium, Bio NP, Salt tolerant bacteria, Growth, Yield, Wheat','The effect of Bio NP formulation prepared from native salt tolerant PGPB were found helpful in improving grain and straw yield and remained at par with the RDF. Overall field study for two years clearly showed that ST Bio NP consortium helped in optimum growth and superior yield of wheat with saving of 25% fertilizers, was highly encouraging and unique research outcome in low saline soil (EC 0.4 dsm-1) and under restricted irrigation conditions of saline water (TDS >3250 ppm). Furthermore, when native Bio NP consortium used with organic sources like castor cake or vermicompost in wheat, the 50 % of chemical load was observed to be curtailed, this may reduce deterioration of soil and keep agro-ecosystem sustainable in long run.','-','Saiyad M.M., Vyas R.V., Mevada K.D. and Patel H.K. (2023). Efficacy of Salt Tolerant Plant Growth Promoting Bacterial Liquid Consortium on Growth and Yield of Wheat (Triticum aestivum L.). Biological Forum – An International Journal, 15(11): 223-229.'),(8019,'169','Evaluation of Heat Tolerance Genotypes in Indian Mustard [Brassica juncea (L.) Czern & Coss] based on Heat Susceptibility Index','Anita, Deepak Gupta, S.S. Punia, D.K. Gothwal, Manohar Ram, G.K. Mittal and Anil Kumar ','Evaluation-of-Heat-Tolerance-Genotypes-in-Indian-Mustard-[Brassica-juncea-(L.)-Czern-&-Coss]-based-on-Heat-Susceptibility-Index-Anita-42.pdf','',1,'In the area of global warming, heat stress, particularly at the seedling stage, is a major problem that affects the production and productivity of mustard that are grown in cooler climates. Fifty five (ten parents and forty five F1’s) mustard genotypes were evaluated under three environments created by different dates of sowing i.e. timely sown, late sown and very late sown during Rabi 2022-23.The experimental materials were evaluated in Randomized block design with three replications under three date of sowing i.e. timely sown, late sown and very late sowing. In the present study, the heat susceptibility index value of parents and crosses for yield and its contributing characters were calculated and genotypes were classified into four different categories i.e. highly heat tolerant, heat tolerant, moderately heat tolerant and heat susceptible. From the result of heat susceptibility index (HSI), parent LAXMI was found most desirable parents in both late and very late date of sowing. Among the cross BPR 543-2 x PM 25, showed the superiority under heat stress environment for seed yield and more than two characters. These parents and crosses could be utilized as a promising breeding material for the development of heat stress tolerant mustard varieties.','Mustard, heat susceptibility index (HSI) and heat stress','The heat susceptibility index (HSI) values of all genotypes have been ranked for each character as per the criterion mentioned above. The overall ranking that the LAXMI was found most desirable parents in both late and very late dates of sowing. Among the cross, BPR 543-2 x PM 25 showed superiority under a heat stress environment for seed yield and more than two characters. ','-','Anita, Deepak Gupta, S.S. Punia, D.K. Gothwal, Manohar Ram, G.K. Mittal and Anil Kumar (2023). Evaluation of Heat Tolerance Genotypes in Indian Mustard [Brassica juncea (L.) Czern & Coss] based on Heat Susceptibility Index. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 15(11): 230-236.'),(8020,'169','Correlation and Path Analysis of Inbred Lines of Fennel (Foeniculum vulgare Mill.)','Govardhan Lal Kumhar, Dinesh Kumar Gothwal and Amit Kumar ','Correlation-and-Path-Analysis-of-Inbred-Lines-of-Fennel-(Foeniculum-vulgare-Mill.)-Govardhan-Lal-Kumhar-43.pdf','',1,'Correlation studies revealed that seed yield per plant exhibited highly significant and positive correlation with umbels per plant, plant height, branches per plant and umbellets per umbel while it exhibited highly significant and negative correlation with days to 50% flowering and days to maturity. Its association with 1000-seed weight and seeds per umbellet were positive and non-significant. Path analysis at both genotypic and phenotypic levels indicated that the magnitude of both direct and indirect effects was generally low. Among the characters the direct effect of umbels per plant was found to be positive and highest indicating that the correlation of umbels per plant with seed yield per plant was primarily because of the direct effect.','Correlation coefficient, Path Analysis, Fennel, Umbels and Umbellets','The association analysis revealed that the seed yield per plant was significantly and positively correlated with, branches per plant, plant height, umbellets per umbel and umbels per plant, while days to 50 per cent flowering and days to maturity had negative and non-significant correlation with seed yield per plant. Path coefficient analysis at both genotypic and phenotypic level revealed that 1000- seed weight, plant height, branches per plant, umbellets per umbel, days to maturity and umbels per plant were the important characters for selection of high yielding genotypes as they exerted high positive direct effect as well as showed positive correlation with seed yield per plant, while seeds per umbellet and days to 50 per cent flowering exerted direct and negative effect on seed yield per plant. The direct effect of umbels per plant was found to be positive and highest among the characters, indicating that the correlation of umbels per plant with seed yield was primarily due to the direct effect.','-','Govardhan Lal Kumhar, Dinesh Kumar Gothwal and Amit Kumar (2023). Correlation and Path Analysis of Inbred Lines of Fennel (Foeniculum vulgare Mill.). Biological Forum – An International Journal, 15(11): 237-242.'),(8021,'169','Screening of BC3F2 Rice population for Submergence Tolerance During Seed Germination','Salomi R., Vignesh P. and Bharathkumar S. ','Screening-of-BC3F2-Rice-population-for-Submergence-Tolerance-During-Seed-Germination-Bharathkumar-S-44.pdf','',1,'Rice (Oryza sativa L.) is an important food crop in the Asian countries, but it is severely affected by submergence stress from seed germination to reproductive stage during heavy monsoon period every year in some parts of the world. This situation has created to improve highly preferable rice varieties for submergence stress tolerance. In the present study, two short duration rice varieties, ADT36 and ADT37 were improved for submergence tolerance at seedling stage using CR Dhan 801 with Submergence 1 (Sub1) locus as donor up to BC3F2 generation through marker assisted backcross method. In Tamil Nadu state, these two rice varieties are adapted in the Cauvery delta region wherever submergence and drought stress is erratic. Seeds from this generation were evaluated for submergence tolerance at seed germination stage. At parental level, we noted less and more elongation in the coleoptile growth of donor and both recipient parents under anaerobic condition, respectively when compare to aerobic condition. In the evaluation of BC3F2 population, we found a range in the elongation of coleoptile and root length under anaerobic condition. From these, a number of seven rice lines (ADT36- F12-5-19.6; ADT36- F12-13-7.11,13,14, ADT36- F14-5-3.4, ADT36- F14-16-2.6, ADT36- F15-2-5.1) for ADT36 and four rice lines (ADT37- F113-27-5.2, ADT37- F115-2-1.1, ADT37- F115-2-2.5, ADT37- F115-2-2.7) for ADT37 rice variety were found to be superior in coleoptile elongation compared to donor line. These rice lines at seed germination stage followed quiescence strategy like donor parent having Sub1 associated with seedling stage tolerance and they possessed decreased growth under submergence condition. Further, other lines exhibited escaping mechanism under flooding with higher rate of CL and RL. Thus, selected rice lines harboring Sub1 locus linked with submergence tolerance at seedling stage will support for flood tolerance at seed germination stage also in the genetic background of ADT36 and ADT37. Therefore, in future, these lines can be used in both methods of direct seed sowing and transplanting in upland and lowland rice cultivating areas and as a genetic source in the rice breeding program.','Submergence tolerance, anaerobic seed germination, Cauvery delta areas, ADT36, ADT37, CR Dhan 801. Coleoptile and Leaf elongation','In the present study, we found the difference between the donor and recipient parent based on low and high rate of coleoptile elongation under flooding, respectively. Shoot elongation under flooding which results in consumption of stored starch content very fast and it leads to plant death or lodging following the de-submergence. According to the previous studies, Sub1 locus is linked with only submergence tolerance at seedling stage and it controls the degradation of starch due to shoot elongation but not at seed germination. Elongation of coleoptile in ADT36 and ADT37 rice variety during seed germination associates with SNORKEL 1 and SNORKEL 2 (SK1/2)-dependent escape strategy and CR Dhan 801 with SUBMERGENCE 1A (SUB1A)-dependent quiescence strategy. However, we found both strategies in BC3F2 population. Supportively, in a very recent study, rice line pyramided with AG and SUB1 gene has showed negative impact on shoot elongation. Here also, we found difference in flood tolerance between ADT36 and ADT37 i.e. when compare to ADT36, elongation of coleoptile is found to be decreased and increased under flooding and non-flooding condition, respectively. Thus, this study reveals that expression of gene/QTL depends on the genetic background of a rice variety. Further, the screening process of existing genetic source may lead to a way to some other stress tolerance also.','-','Salomi R., Vignesh P. and Bharathkumar S. (2023). Screening of BC3F2 Rice population for Submergence Tolerance During Seed Germination. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 15(11): 243-248.'),(8022,'169','Estimation of Heterobeltiosis and Standard Heterosis for Morphological, Biochemical and Quality Traits in Upland Cotton (Gossypium hirsutum L.)','Mukeshkumar Parmar, Dhairya Makwana, Chirag P. Chandramaniya, Divya Patel, Denish Savaliya, M C. Patel and G.O. Faldu ','Estimation-of-Heterobeltiosis-and-Standard-Heterosis-for-Morphological-Biochemical-and-Quality-Traits-in-Upland-Cotton-(Gossypium-hirsutum-L.)-Parmar-Mukeshkumar-45.pdf','',1,'Heterosis study is very helpful genetic parameters for identification of potential crosses for genetic improvement of cotton. The present study was undertaken by ten parents (7 lines and 3 testers) and their twenty-one resultant crosses with a check G. Cot. Hy-10 was evaluated in a randomized block design with three replications in line × tester manner during kharif 2022 at Main Cotton Research Station, Navsari Agricultural University, Surat. The heterobeltiosis for seed cotton yield per plant ranged from -24.80 to 99.55 per cent, while the standard heterosis ranged from -18.50 to 54.60 per cent. The highest value of heterobeltiosis and standard heterosis were observed for cross BGDS 1063 × G. Cot-10 BG II. For seed cotton yield per plant top five crosses viz., BGDS 1063 × G. Cot-10 BG II, DELTA 15 × G. Cot-16 BG II, GISV 218 × G. Cot-10 BG II, SCS 106 × BC-68-2 BG II and GJHV 374 × BC-68-2 BG II recorded positive and significant heterobeltiosis and standard heterosis. These five crosses also exhibited significant heterobeltiosis and standard heterosis for yields contributing character like bolls per plant, boll weight, ginning outturn, seed index, fiber strength, phenol content, protein content, oil content and gossypol content. In case of fiber parameters, the maximum value of standard heterosis was observed by the cross ARBC 1351 × G. Cot-10 BG II for ginning outturn and GJHV 374 × G. Cot-10 BG II for fiber strength. For biochemical parameters, cross GISV 218 × G. Cot-10 BG II, cross GISV 218 × G. Cot-16 BG II and cross SCS 1061 × BC-68 2 BG II recorded significant standard heterosis in desired direction for oil content, protein content and phenol content, respectively. On the basis of per se performance, heterobeltiosis and standard heterosis cross combination BGDS 1063 × G. Cot-10 BG II was found to be the most promising for seed cotton yield and some of its component traits. So, this cross fully be exploited through pedigree method to obtain higher yielding transgressive segregants.','Cotton, Line × Tester, Heterosis, Heterobeltiosis, standard heterosis','The current analysis revealed significant amounts of both desired heterobeltiosis and standard heterosis for various traits. These imply the potential for cotton improvement through heterosis breeding. Top-ranking crosses based on per se performance and standard heterosis were nearly identical, although heterobeltiosis resulted in a slight difference. Since better parent heterosis is less reliable, ranking based on standard heterosis is more reliable. ','-','Mukeshkumar Parmar, Dhairya Makwana, Chirag P. Chandramaniya, Divya Patel, Denish Savaliya, M C. Patel and G.O. Faldu (2023). Estimation of Heterobeltiosis and Standard Heterosis for Morphological, Biochemical and Quality Traits in Upland Cotton (Gossypium hirsutum L.). Biological Forum – An International Journal, 15(11): 249-255.'),(8023,'169','Management of Fall Armyworm, Spodoptera frugiperda in Kharif Sorghum ','Sudarshan Bandi, V. U. Sonalkar, D. B. Undirwade, P. N. Mane, R. B. Ghorade, Dose Janhavi G. and E. Ambika ','Management-of-fall-armyworm,-Spodoptera-frugiperda-in-kharif-Sorghum-Dose-Janhavi-G-46.pdf','',1,'Fall armyworm Spodoptera frugiperda was recently introduced pest in India causing more damage to sorghum, maize and other C4 plants. Larvae of the fall armyworm damages the whorl portion of the sorghum plants and causes window pane like symptoms on leaves which reduces the photosynthetic activity of leaves and reduces the yield of the plants. The contributions I made in the study was application of insecticides on the whorl region of the plant because the larvae mostly concentrated on this region. The investigation was carried out under field conditions at Sorghum Research Unit, Dr. Panjabrao Deshmukh Krishi Vidyapeeth, Akola during kharif 2022. The least damage score was recorded in treatment Beauveria bassiana spray at 20 DAE followed with chlorantraniliprole spray. The low plant damage at 45, 60 and 75 DAE was recorded in treatment chlorantraniliprole spray at 20 DAE followed with emamectin benzoate spray at 30 DAE and emamectin benzoate spray at 20 DAE followed with chlorantraniliprole spray at 30 DAE. Similarly, the average plant damage was minimum recorded in chlorantraniliprole spray at 20 DAE followed with emamectin benzoate spray at 30 DAE and in treatment emamectin benzoate spray at 20 DAE followed with chlorantraniliprole spray at 30 DAE. The highest grain yield and fodder yield were recorded in treatment emamectin benzoate spray at 20 DAE followed with chlorantraniliprole spray at 30 DAE and grain yield and fodder yield in this was on par with yield in chlorantraniliprole spray at 20 DAE followed in emamectin benzoate spray at 30 DAE. The highest incremental cost benefit ratio (ICBR) was recorded in treatment chlorantraniliprole spray at 20 DAE followed with emamectin benzoate 5 spray at 30 DAE with 1:5.97 followed by 1:5.93 in treatment emamectin benzoate spray at 20 DAE followed with chlorantraniliprole spray at 30 DAE. ','Sorghum, fall armyworm, Spodoptera frugiperda','Emamectin benzoate 5% SG @ 4.0 g/10 lit and chlorantraniliprole 18.5% SC @ 4.0 ml/10 lit effectively manage fall armyworm, Spodoptera frugiperda and reduce the plant damage. Biopesticide Beauveria bassiana was cheaper and hence incurred least expenditure on spray application but least effective against Spodoptera frugiperda. Emamectin benzoate 5% SG @ 4.0 g/10 lit spray at 20 DAE followed by chlorantraniliprole 18.5% SC @ 4.0 ml/10 lit spray at 30 DAE and vice versa increases the grain and fodder yield. The spray applications with Emamectin benzoate 5% SG @ 4.0 g/10 lit spray at 20 DAE followed by chlorantraniliprole 18.5% SC @ 4.0 ml/10 lit spray at 30 DAE and vice versa increases gross income and gives higher incremental cost benefit. Beauveria bassiana (1×108 CFU/g) @ 50 ml/10 lit spray at 20 DAE followed by emamectin benzoate 5% SG @ 4.0 g/10 lit at 30 DAE and vice versa is the next option which helps in reducing the use of chemical insecticides and gives better incremental cost benefits.','-','Sudarshan Bandi, V. U. Sonalkar, D. B. Undirwade, P. N. Mane, R. B. Ghorade, Dose Janhavi G. and E. Ambika (2023). Management of Fall Armyworm, Spodoptera frugiperda in Kharif Sorghum. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 15(11): 256-262.'),(8024,'169','Studies on Genetic variability, Correlation and Path coefficient Analysis for Yield Contributing and Quality Traits in Marker Assisted Derived Advanced Backcross Lines of Groundnut (Arachis hypogaea L.)','V. Mani Prasad, CH. V. Durga Rani, G. Seshu and S.N.C.V.L. Pushpavalli ','Studies-on-Genetic-variability-Correlation-and-Path-coefficient-Analysis-for-Yield-Contributing-and-Quality-Traits-in-Marker-Assisted-Derived-Advanced-Backcross-Lines-of-Groundnut-V-Mani-Prasad-47.pdf','',1,'In the present study, 30 advanced backcross lines (BC1F5 and BC2F4) along with their parents were evaluated for 13 quantitative and quality traits in randomized block design with two replications. Yield is a polygenic and complex trait, which is significantly influenced by the environment. Direct selection for yield is less efficient, indirect selection through yield contributing traits can greatly enhance efficiency of plant breeding. The components of genetic variance revealed that phenotypic coefficient of variation (PCV) values was higher than genotypic coefficients of variation (GCV) for all the characters indicating the environment effect on genotypes. High GCV and PCV were recorded for number of pods per plant whereas, high heritability coupled with high GAM was observed in number of pods per plant, plant height, seed yield per plant and pod yield per plant. Pod yield per plant showed a positive and significant association with number of pods per plant, seed yield per plant, shelling outturn, pod length and 100 seed weight at both genotypic and phenotypic level. Path analysis revealed that seed yield per plant showed high positive direct effect whereas, shelling outturn and 100 seed weight contributed significant amount of indirect effects towards pod yield per plant.','Groundnut, GCV, PCV, genetic advance, heritability','From the above discussions, on variability and genetic parameters, it is evident that number of pods per plant, plant height, pod yield per plant and seed yield per plant showed high heritability coupled with high GAM which, depicts these traits are less influenced by environment and governed by additive gene effects hence, simple direct selection may be effective to improve these traits. Correlation coefficient analysis revealed that seed yield per plant showed highly positive and significant association with pod yield per plant followed by number of pods per plant, shelling out turn, pod length, number of secondary branches per plant, 100 seed weight, pod width, oil and protein content are the most essential characters, which might contribute significantly towards higher pod yield per plant. Path analysis revealed that seed yield per plant showed high positive direct effect whereas, shelling outturn and 100 seed weight contributes significant amount of indirect effects towards pod yield per plant. Hence, they may be regarded as important traits for selecting high yield in groundnut. ','-','V. Mani Prasad, CH. V. Durga Rani, G. Seshu and S.N.C.V.L. Pushpavalli (2023). Studies on Genetic variability, Correlation and Path coefficient Analysis for Yield Contributing and Quality Traits in Marker Assisted Derived Advanced Backcross Lines of Groundnut (Arachis hypogaea L.). Biological Forum – An International Journal, 15(11): 263-269.'),(8025,'169','Economic Upliftment through Millet Value Additional Training for farmers and Rural Youth of Tiruvallur district Tamil Nadu','V.A. Vijayashanthi, S. Arul Prasad, M. Senthilkumar, P. Yogameenakshi, K. Sivagamy, C. Tamilselvi, T.L. Preethi and S. Banumathy','Economic-Upliftment-through-Millet-Value-Additional-Training-for-farmers-and-Rural-Youth-of-Tiruvallur-district-Tamil-Nadu-VA-Vijayashanthi-48.pdf','',1,'In Tiruvallur district, millet including finger millet, pearl millet, sorghum and maize is cultivated in 947 hectares with the production of 2683 tonnes. The present study was conducted by Krishi Vigyan Kendra, Tiruvallur to assess the impact of vocational training programes on value addition in millets on commercial scale and for self-employment. The data revealed that just after completion of training, a maximum of beneficiaries had gained a medium level of knowledge of about 60.46% and percentages of low level and high level of knowledge were 3.87% and 35.65% respectively. Adoption analysis after training indicated that 29.03% have started small scale production of value added products in millets and spice mixes. One notable challenge was the limited availability of resources and infrastructure for scaling up commercial millet production. Additionally, the socio-economic constraints of the farmers, such as access to finance and market linkages. Thus, it can be inferred that exposure to training had increased the knowledge of participants regarding value addition in millets and the technical support through KVK is being facilitated to the farmers and rural youth of Tiruvallur district. ','Millet, Value Additional, Entrepreneurship Development Program, Women Empowerment, Rural Youth and KVK Training','There is a tremendous potential for value addition and marketing of value added products of millets and an increasing demand for quality value added products at a competitive rates both in the domestic and export markets. Hence commercial production of value added products in millets is being emphasized to the farmers through training conducted by Krishi Vigyan Kendra, Tiruvallur which shown better influence on the farmers and rural youth to practice commercial production and marketing of value added products as agriculture allied activity to increase their income which in turn improves their standard of life.','-','V.A. Vijayashanthi, S. Arul Prasad, M. Senthilkumar, P. Yogameenakshi, K. Sivagamy, C. Tamilselvi, T.L. Preethi and S. Banumathy (2023). Economic Upliftment through Millet Value Additional Training for farmers and Rural Youth of Tiruvallur district Tamil Nadu. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 15(11): 270-274.'),(8026,'169','Growth Behaviour of Bt-cotton under Legume Intercropping with Paired Planting of Cotton','P.M. Parmar, J.C. Shroff, N.N. Chaudhary and S.N. Shah ','Growth-Behavior-of-Bt-cotton-under-Legume-Intercropping-with-Paired-Planting-of-Cotton-PM-Parmar-49.pdf','',1,': India is one of the major cotton producing country in the world. Production of cotton increased after the introduction of transgenic Bt cotton. The area under cotton is increasing in India. Indian textile industry rapidly moving upward. Therefore, experiment is conducted to study the growth pattern of cotton. A field experiment was conducted at Anand Agricultural University, Anand, Gujarat to study the effect of crop geometry in cotton based cropping system during kharif seasons of the years 2020 and 2021. Eight different planting pattern and intercropping system were studied under randomized block design (RBD) with four replications. Periodical examination of data shows that conventional planting of cotton recorded significantly higher dry matter accumulation due to better availability of the resources and less competition compared to the treatments with intercrops and paired planting. Dry matter accumulation directly responsible for growth rate but has no or slight significant effect on crop growth rate, absolute growth rate and relative growth rate.','Cotton, Crop growth rate, Absolute growth rate, Relative growth rate','The results of this investigation shows that growth behaviour of cotton under Bt cotton+legume intercropping system with green gram and groundnut as intercrops played important role in the growth of plant. Involvement of legumes in cotton is not affecting growth of cotton. These unaffected growth rates had significant positive impact on seed cotton yield. This is relevant considering the need for crop diversification in the Bt cotton to minimize the risk associated with sole transgenic cotton.','-','P.M. Parmar, J.C. Shroff, N.N. Chaudhary and S.N. Shah (2023). Growth Behavior of Bt-cotton under Legume Intercropping with Paired Planting of Cotton. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 15(11): 275-279.'),(8027,'169','Genetic variability Studies and Molecular Characterization of Garcinia (Garcinia gummi-gutta L.) Germplasm for Yield and Quality Traits','S.T. Binisundar, G. Ashokkumar, P.Rajarathinam, A. Jaya Jasmine and S. Vasanth ','Genetic-variability-Studies-and-Molecular-Characterization-of-Garcinia-(Garcinia-gummi-gutta-L.)-Germplasm-for-Yield-and-Quality-Traits-S.T.-Binisundar-50.pdf','',1,'At the Horticultural Research Station, located in Pechiparai, Kanyakumari district, an investigation was conducted during 2018 to 2021 to assess the garcinia germplasm maintained at the station along with the local check of Pechiparai. They were assessed for their growth character viz., tree height, fruit characters, major pest and disease infestation. The study showed that the accession Acc. Gg 9 was identified as best performer as it exhibited favourable characters for yield and growth when compared with the local check and also recorded lower level of pest and disease infestation. In the current investigation, 11 garcinia accessions were analysed through principal component analysis to assess genetic divergence, pattern of variation present in the germplasm and relationship between the tested individuals. The first two principal components contributed desired eigen values and exhibited 71.20 % of the total variability in the observed characters. The genotypes ACC. Gg 9 showed high positive values. The cluster analysis displayed totally four major clusters viz., I, II, III and IV consisting of 3, 1, 6 and 1 accessions accordingly. For a breeding programme in garcinia accessions, it can utilise the accessions from the diverse clusters. With regard to correlation studies, the traits viz., number of fruits per tree, rind thickness, tartaric acid have expressed significant and positive correlation values with yield per tree. Challenges in this investigation include addressing the complex analysis of multiple growth and genetic parameters in 11 garcinia accessions, ensuring effective utilization of diverse clusters for breeding programs, and navigating the intricacies of correlation studies to enhance the selection process based on key traits. Therefore, selection based on these characters will increase the effectiveness. With respect to the DNA fingerprinting analysis concluded that RAPD markers can be used for DNA fingerprinting of Kudampuli cultivar PPI (K) 1 and local accession. Among the RAPD markers, OPA03570 can be used to differentiate PPI (K) 1 from the local check.','Garcinia, principal component analysis, cluster analysis, correlation analysis, DNA Fingerprints','The aim of this work was to characterise and evaluate the morphological in order to determine the genetic diversity of G. gummi-gutta accessions. For genetic diversity to be conserved, we need a better understanding for its distribution. The results of this investigation showed that the Acc. Gg 9 was identified as the best performing garcinia accession as it exhibited desirable characters in terms of yield and fruit characteristics with a compact height making harvest easy. Also, on comparison it outperformed the local check in most of the characters and had low incidence of pest and disease. Outcrossing, which resulted in gene flow both within and between populations and may have contributed to the high amount of variation shown in these accessions (G. gummi-gutta\'s method of pollination may include insects), may have occurred. A high tree to tree intraspecific variation even within the same geographical zone has been previously reported for G. gummi-gutta (Parthasarathy et al., 2014). This report could be useful in efficient management of G. gummi-gutta germplasm for their conservation and optimal utilization. Further studies using larger number of accessions from different geographical locations of India could provide better understanding of the genetic diversity of G. gummi-gutta. In garcinia accessions the STAR (Computer software) was used for this principal component analysis and cluster analysis. Total 11 accessions were evaluated in the analysis. From the results, out of 11 accessions ACC. Gg 9 had high diversity. Among the characters tree height, number of fruits per tree, yield per tree, rind thickness, rind dry recovery, hydroxy citric acid and tartaric acid showed shown significant variations. In cluster analysis, there performed four clusters. Among the four- cluster IV cluster showed ACC. Gg 9 genotypes had high diversity comparing other genotypes. Here, the value of cophenetic correlation coefficient was 0.914 that showed the high efficiency of the clustering pattern. With regard to correlation association analysis in garcinia accessions, the characters such as number of fruits per tree, rind thickness, tartaric acid have expressed significant and positive correlation values with yield per tree. Therefore, selection based on these characters will increase the effectiveness. With respect to the DNA fingerprinting analysis concluded that RAPD markers can be used for DNA fingerprinting of Kudampuli cultivar PPI (K) 1 and local accession. Among the RAPD markers, OPA03570 can be used to differentiate PPI (K) 1 from the local check.','-','S.T. Binisundar, G. Ashokkumar, P.Rajarathinam, A. Jaya Jasmine and S. Vasanth (2023). Genetic variability Studies and Molecular Characterization of Garcinia (Garcinia gummi-gutta L.) Germplasm for Yield and Quality Traits. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 15(11): 280-288.'),(8028,'169','Influence of Sowing Time and Planting Geometry on Biochemical Parameters of Quinoa (Chenopodium quinoa Willd.)','G.M. Hamane, M.T. Bhingarde, V. R. Shelar, R.S. Wagh, R.M. Naik, N.J. Danawale and C.A. Nimbalkar ','Influence of Sowing Time and Planting Geometry on Biochemical Parameters of Quinoa (Chenopodium quinoa Willd.)-Govind M Hamane-51.pdf','',1,'The present experiment entitled “Influence of sowing time and planting geometry on biochemical parameters of quinoa (Chenopodium quinoa Willd.)” was carried out at Post Graduate Institute, Mahatma Phule Krishi Vidyapeeth, Rahuri. The field experiment was conducted at the PGI Farm, M.P.K.V., Rahuri, during the Rabi 2019-20 and Rabi 2020-21, and the laboratory experiment was carried out at Seed Technology Research Unit (STRU), Mahatma Phule Krishi Vidyapeeth (MPKV), Rahuri. It is essential to focus on developing edible cultivars with superior quality and higher seed yield with suitable growing periods on particular dates because early or late sowing causes reduction in yield and seed quality of crop. The objective of the study was to the effect of different sowing times and planting geometry on biochemical compositions such as protein and oil content of quinoa. two genotypes (IC-411824 and EC-507739) were sown at three different sowing times (15th November, 1st December, and 15th December) with three different spacing (30 × 10 cm, 45 × 10 cm, and 60 × 10 cm), the harvested seeds were stored until germination percentage declined below 70.00 % and observations for biochemical constituents such as protein and oil content were recorded at initial and at 90, 180, and 240 days after storage by using Factorial Completely Randomized Design (FCRD) design. In terms of biochemical parameters protein and oil percentage, the 15th November sowing had maximum protein and oil percentage throughout the storage periods, however, spacings had no influence on protein and oil content in quinoa during 240 days of storage. Referring to genotypes, genotype EC-507739 recorded maximum protein and oil percentage during 240 days of storage. All the interactions viz., sowing time and spacing, sowing time and genotype, spacing and genotype, and sowing time, spacing and genotype were found non-significant.','Quinoa, protein, oil, genotypes','The highest protein and oil content was recorded in genotype EC-507739 as compared to IC-411824 on all three dates of sowing during 240 days of storage.','-','G.M. Hamane, M.T. Bhingarde, V. R. Shelar, R.S. Wagh, R.M. Naik, N.J. Danawale and C.A. Nimbalkar (2023). Influence of Sowing Time and Planting Geometry on Biochemical Parameters of Quinoa (Chenopodium quinoa Willd.). Biological Forum – An International Journal, 15(11): 289-294.'),(8029,'168','Management of Alternaria Leaf spot of Sesame (Sesamum indicum L.) in in vitro using different Biocontrol Agents','Arun A.T. and Mahabeer Singh','Management-of-Alternaria-Leaf-spot-of-Sesame-(Sesamum-indicum-L.)-in-in-vitro-using-different-Biocontrol-Agents-Arun-AT-298.pdf','',1,'Sesame is an ancient oilseed crop, with the long history of cultivation. Sesame production (about 8Lakh MT) and acreage are both ranked first in the world by India. Alternaria sesami, which causes the sesame leaf spot disease, occur primarily on leaf blades as tiny, brown, uneven or rounded dots. Biological control, using microbes to prevent and/or suppress plant diseases, offers an alternative to the use of fungicides. In this study used different fungal biocontrol agents includes Trichoderma harzianum, Trichoderma asperellum, Trichoderma virens, Trichoderma hamatum and Bacterial biocontrol agent Pseudomonas fluorescence against the management of Alternaria sesami. Maximum mycelial growth inhibition (87.40%) of the pathogen was recorded with Trichoderma harzianum followed by Trichoderma asperellum (84.67%). Minimum mycelial growth inhibition was recorded in Pseudomonas fluorescens (64.20%).','Leaf spot, Sesame, biocontrol, Sesame, Trichoderma spp., Pseudomonas spp','Out of five bio-agents, Trichoderma harzianum was found most effective in inhibiting mycelial growth of Alternaria sesami followed by Trichoderma asperellum. Trichoderma virens and Trichoderma hamatum was moderately effective. Pseudomonas flourescens was least effective in in vitro (Dual culture method) condition.','-','Arun A.T. and Mahabeer Singh (2023). Management of Alternaria Leaf spot of Sesame (Sesamum indicum L.) in in vitro using different Biocontrol agents. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 15(10): 1639-1642.'),(8030,'170','Evaluation of Genotypes Against Late Leaf Spot and Rust Diseases in Groundnut (Arachis hypogaea L.)','K.A. Wagh, M.S. Kamble, S.J. Waghmare, A.R. Thakre, M.S. Mote, N.A. Deore and S.V. Khadtare','Evaluation-of-Genotypes-Against-Late-Leaf-Spot-and-Rust-Diseases-in-Groundnut-(Arachis-hypogaea-L.)-K.A.-Wagh-4.pdf','',1,'Foliar diseases, particularly late leaf spot (LLS) and rust, pose significant challenges to groundnut production in various regions worldwide. These foliar diseases not only diminish yield but also adversely affect seed quality. The screening of 31 genotypes of groundnut (Arachis hypogaea L.) was undertaken to evaluate the per cent disease incidence of late leaf spot and rust diseases. Several genotypes of different origins were subjected to screening for resistance against late leaf spot (LLS) and rust. The investigation demonstrated considerable variability among the genotypes in terms of their resistance to LLS and rust. The crops were cultivated and the occurrence of late leaf spot and rust in field was quantified. The results revealed diverse disease incidences among the genotypes, emphasizing the need for targeted measures to manage these production constraints. The percentage of disease incidence for late leaf spot ranged from 13.67 per cent to 55.33 per cent, while rust incidence varied from 10.33 per cent to 41.33 per cent across the studied genotypes. The identification of disease-resistant genotypes stands out as a highly effective strategy to enhance production of groundnut in diverse regions. This study aims to assess disease incidence and yield outcomes across various peanut genotypes with the goal of identifying the top-performing varieties concerning both yield and disease resistance.','Groundnut, Late leaf spot, Rust, Disease, Incidence','In the present study groundnut genotypes were evaluated for resistance to late leaf spot and rust. The study comprising 31 genotypes of different origin. In this experiment concluded that the identified genotypes resistant to LLS and rust under natural diseases conditions. Per cent disease incidence of late leaf spot and rust in the genotypes under study revealed that genotypes GPBD-4, KDG-128, KDG-160KDG-123, KDG-222, KDG-218, ICGV-181051 and KDG-217 exhibits less per cent disease incidence for both the diseases and these genotypes also had better yield. The results indicated that the genotypes which exhibits less per cent disease incidence, performs good and had higher pod yield per plant as compares to the genotypes which showing maximum per cent disease incidence. The resistant genotypes are also useful as elite parents in peanut breeding program. Understanding the mechanism of resistance in genotypes identified for specific adaptation and wide adaptation will enable the peanut breeders to diversify the genetic base of resistance to foliar fungal diseases. Identification and selection of resistant genotypes will lead to develop disease resistance with high yielding groundnut genotypes.','-','K.A. Wagh, M.S. Kamble, S.J. Waghmare, A.R. Thakre, M.S. Mote, N.A. Deore and S.V. Khadtare (2023). Evaluation of Genotypes Against Late Leaf Spot and Rust Diseases in Groundnut (Arachis hypogaea L.). Biological Forum – An International Journal, 15(12): 16-19.'),(8031,'150','Analysis of the Performance, Variability and nature of Redgram [Cajanus cajan (L.) Mill sp.] Productive Traits in Rainfed alfisols of Andhra Pradesh','A.V.S. Durga Prasad and B. Sahadeva Reddy','Analysis-of-the-Performance-Variability-and-nature-of-Redgram-[Cajanus-cajan-(L.)-Mill-sp.]-Productive-Traits-in-Rainfed-alfisols-of-Andhra-Pradesh-A.V.S.-Durga-Prasad-129.pdf','',1,'Investigation was undertaken during kharif 2022 at Agricultural Research Station, Ananthapuramu to analyse sixteen genotypes of Redgram (Cajanus cajan L.). The primary focus of the research revolved around conducting correlation studies and examining genetic diversity in seed yield and its associated characteristics. Significant variability was noted in all the parts being inspected. The coefficients of variation for productivity metrics, including seed yield, number of pods/ plant, number of branches / plant and 100 seed weight, were notably high. Considerable variation was seen in the days to 50% blooming, plant height, pod length and number of seeds / pod. The inquiry found that the evaluated qualities showed substantial heritability and a considerable expected genetic advancement. The independent variables, which included plant height, number of branches / plant and number of pods/ plant had a strong positive correlation with the dependent variable, seed yield. Plant height, days to 50% blooming and 100-seed weight were shown to have the most significant direct impact on seed yield, according to an examination of correlation coefficients among several characteristics impacting seed yield.','Genetic Variability, Character Association, Path Analysis, Redgram, Seed yield','Upon meticulous analysis of character association and path studies, our investigation of sixteen genotypes of Redgram (Cajanus cajan L.) during the kharif season of 2022 at Agricultural Research Station, Ananthapuramu, has provided valuable insights into enhancing redgram seed yield. The study focused on conducting correlation studies and evaluating genetic diversity in seed yield and associated traits. The research unveiled significant variability across all examined parameters, highlighting the potential for targeted trait selection to improve seed yield. The coefficients of variation for key productivity metrics, including seed yield, number of pods/plant, number of branches/plant, and 100-seed weight, were notably high, indicating substantial diversity among the genotypes. Notably, traits such as days to 50% blooming, plant height, and number of pods/plant exhibited both high heritability and considerable genetic advance. These traits, characterized by their heritability and genetic advance, emerge as promising candidates for targeted selection to enhance redgram seed yield. The correlation analysis revealed strong positive associations between seed yield and independent variables such as plant height, number of branches/plant, and number of pods/plant. Furthermore, our path analysis identified specific traits, namely plant height, days to 50% blooming, and 100-seed weight, with the most significant direct impact on seed yield. These findings provide a comprehensive understanding of the key determinants influencing redgram seed yield, paving the way for informed breeding strategies.','-','A.V.S. Durga Prasad and B. Sahadeva Reddy (2023). Analysis of the Performance, Variability and nature of Redgram [Cajanus cajan (L.) Mill sp.] Productive Traits in Rainfed alfisols of Andhra Pradesh. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 15(3): 829-832.'),(8032,'112','Generation Mean Analysis for Seed Yield and its Components in Urdbean (Vigna mungo [L.] Hepper)','A.V.S. Durga Prasad and E. Murugan','Generation-Mean-Analysis-for-Seed-Yield-and-its-Components-in-Urdbean-(Vigna-mungo-[L.]-Hepper)-A.V.S.-Durga-Prasad-317.pdf','',1,'This research used a six-generation mean analysis for seed yield and its components in five urdbean inter-varietal crossings on scope of gene action. The results of additional scaling tests demonstrated the need for an epistatic model, and an analysis of generation mean analysis (GMA) confirmed that no simple additive-dominance model existed. The variety of gene activities influencing seed yield and quality was another discovery from GMA. The most typical types of interactions are dominance × dominance and duplicate dominant, but additive and epistatic interactions are also feasible. Since these traits are difficult to improve using simple selection methods, pedigree breeding procedures wait until later generations to pick elite lines for maximum efficacy. One or two cycles of recurrent selection, in conjunction with pedigree breeding, would be the optimal technique for choosing superior lines with high seed yield and its components, while also managing epistatic interactions.','Generation mean analysis, Urdbean Crossings, Pedigree Breeding, Scaling tests, Epistatic interactions','Upon a thorough exploration of generation strategies in the context of this study, it is evident that the intricate dynamics of gene activities significantly influence all nine parameters related to yield. These interactions encompass a spectrum of possibilities, ranging from additive and dominance to complex epistatic relationships, exemplified by types such as dominance x dominance and duplicate dominant. The nuanced understanding of gene activities uncovered in our analysis, particularly the prevalence of various interaction types, underscores the complexity inherent in the genetic regulation of seed yield and its components in urdbean inter-varietal crossings. Conventional selection methods, geared towards enhancing these crucial yield-related traits, prove to be inherently challenging and insufficient for creating superior progeny. Recognizing this challenge, an alternative approach to bolster the effectiveness of pedigree breeding involves deferring the selection of elite lines to subsequent generations. This strategic delay allows for the identification of superior lines with optimal genetic combinations, ultimately maximizing efficacy in achieving desired yield outcomes. On a contrasting note, the pedigree breeding method emerges as a potent strategy in unearthing improved lines with robust yield components. Employing one or two cycles of recurrent selection within the pedigree breeding framework proves to be an optimal technique. This approach not only facilitates the selection of superior lines with high seed yield and its associated components but also adeptly manages the intricate web of epistatic interactions that play a pivotal role in shaping the genetic landscape.','-','A.V.S. Durga Prasad and E. Murugan (2022). Generation Mean Analysis for Seed Yield and its Components in Urdbean (Vigna mungo [L.] Hepper). Biological Forum – An International Journal, 14(1): 1829-1837.'),(8033,'169','Cultural and Morphological Characterization of Lasiodiplodia theobromae causing Post-harvest Stem End Rot of Mango','Rahul L. Joshi, C. G. Vahia, D. H. Tandel, H. A. Shekhada, Dipali D. Hirani and Susheel Singh','Cultural-and-Morphological-characterization-of-Lasiodiplodia-theobromae-causing-Post-harvest-Stem-End-Rot-of-Mango-Rahul-L-Joshi-52.pdf','',1,'Mango is prone to a number of diseases at all the stages of its development right from plant in the nursery to the fruit in storage or transit. In the post-harvest condition, it is susceptible to many fungal diseases like anthracnose, rhizopus rot, stem end rot, penicillum rot, black mould rot, mucor rot, phyllosticta rot, pestalotiopsis rot, macrophoma rot and powdery mildew, leading to heavy loss in yield. Among them, stem end rot (SER) stands out as one of the most commonly encountered postharvest diseases affecting mangoes in numerous countries. This study focused on the isolation, identification and characterization of the Lasiodiplodia theobromae causing stem end rot disease in mango fruits. Mango fruits exhibiting stem end rot symptoms were collected from various markets in the Navsari district and brought to the laboratory. Cultural and morphological characterization revealed that pathogen produce grey to black color colony with black pycnidia and thick walled and bi–celled dark brown color spores. The recorded dimensions of conidia ranged from 16.00 to 28.00μmin length and 12.00 to 16.00 μm in width. The fungal culture obtained from the respective disease symptoms was inoculated into healthy mango fruit by cork borer injury method. The inoculated fungi were produced similar symptoms and Koch’s postulate was proved by re–isolation the same fungi. Thus, the causal organism of stem end rot under present investigation confirmed as L. theobromae (Botryodiplodia theobromae). Therefore, addressing the challenges posed by Lasiodiplodia theobromae in causing post-harvest stem end rot is crucial for sustaining the economic viability of mango cultivation, ensuring high-quality fruit for consumers and facilitating smooth trade in the global market.','Mango, L. theobromae, Isolation, Identification, Characterization','In conclusion, this investigation confirmed that stem end rot infected fruits produced grey to black colour colony with black pycnidia and thick walled, bi–celled dark brown colour spores. The recorded dimensions of conidia ranged from 16.00 to 28.00μm in length and 12.00 to 16.00 μm in width. The fungal culture obtained from the respective disease symptoms was inoculated into healthy mango fruit by cork borer injury method. The inoculated fungi were produced similar symptoms and Koch’s postulate was proved by re–isolation the same fungi. Thus, the causal organism of stem end rot under present investigation confirmed as L. theobromae (B. theobromae). The outcomes of this study hold significant value for stakeholders in the agricultural sector. They provide essential information that can aid in the formulation of effective control strategies at the post-harvest stage. Such strategies aim to minimize losses and enhance the storage life of mangoes, contributing to the overall efficiency of the agricultural supply chain.','-','Rahul L. Joshi, C. G. Vahia, D. H. Tandel, H. A. Shekhada, Dipali D. Hirani and Susheel Singh (2023). Cultural and Morphological characterization of Lasiodiplodia theobromae causing Post-harvest Stem End Rot of Mango. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 15(11): 295-297.'),(8034,'169','Evaluating the Spatial Variability of Soil Physicochemical Characteristics in an Indian Lesser-Himalayan Region','Ayman Javed, Shahid Ahmad Hakeem, Aamir Hassan Mir, Javid Ahmad Bhat, Haziq Shabir, Zahoor Ahmad Baba and Roheela Ahmad ','Evaluating-the-Spatial-Variability-of-Soil-Physicochemical-Characteristics-in-an-Indian-Lesser-Himalayan-Region-Ayman-Javed-53.pdf','',1,'The utilisation of digital soil mapping has gained significant traction in the scientific community to construct statistical models that elucidate the intricate connections between environmental factors and soil characteristics. A comprehensive understanding of the inherent spatial variability of soil physical and chemical properties is imperative to enhance the precision and effectiveness of site-specific soil nutrient management strategies. In this research endeavour, we explored the multifaceted domain of spatial variability of a wide range of soil physical and chemical properties, including pH levels, organic carbon content, and available nitrogen, phosphorus, potassium, and sulphur across diverse geographical locations within the Baramulla district. Soil samples were carefully collected from a depth of 0-15 cm, employing a randomized sampling technique with the aid of GPS technology, ensuring precise geospatial coordinates were recorded for each of the 120 sampling locations. The statistical analysis conducted on soil properties revealed that the pH levels exhibit a relatively low coefficient of variation (CV), measuring less than 15%. On the other hand, organic carbon, nitrogen, phosphorus, potassium, and sulphur display a substantial coefficient of variation, surpassing 20%. Although there has been a rise in the use of probabilistic and statistical analysis, there are still several obstacles to overcome when it comes to integrating the spatial variability inherent in soil parameters into prediction analysis. The geostatistical interpolation technique has successfully revealed a moderate spatial variability in the levels of pH, organic carbon, phosphorus, potassium, and sulphur. Additionally, it has indicated a weaker spatial variability in the levels of nitrogen. The soil variables were subjected to fitting models such as Exponential (N and K), Spherical (OC), and Gaussian (pH, P2O5, Sulphur) to analyse their semivariograms. This study demonstrates the versatility of the framework in analysing soil parameters throughout a wide range of variability, from low to high. These cartographic representations enable agricultural practitioners to evaluate the prevailing soil conditions on their farms, facilitating streamlined and optimised decision-making processes. This, in turn, contributes to the preservation of productivity sustainability while ensuring enhanced operational efficiency.','Soil mapping, Geostatistics, Interpolation, Semivariogram, site-specific soil nutrient management','The geostatistical interpolation technique effectively determined that the exponential, spherical, and Gaussian models exhibited optimal conformity with the semivariograms, contingent upon the specific soil chemical variable. In a broader sense, these models demonstrated a relatively weak to moderate degree of spatial dependency across all variables. The utilisation of kriging maps for soil chemical properties has proven to be highly effective in elucidating the spatial distribution patterns of soil properties in areas where no samples were taken, solely relying on the available sampled data. The assessment of spatial heterogeneity in soil physical and chemical attributes is an essential step in implementing targeted soil and crop management strategies. The soil property maps, along with their corresponding spatial structures, have successfully delineated the priority management zones that should be addressed in the future to enhance soil quality. These maps can also be utilised to develop more effective sampling designs for making informed management decisions.','-','Ayman Javed, Shahid Ahmad Hakeem, Aamir Hassan Mir, Javid Ahmad Bhat, Haziq Shabir, Zahoor Ahmad Baba and Roheela Ahmad (2023). Evaluating the Spatial Variability of Soil Physicochemical Characteristics in an Indian Lesser-Himalayan Region. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 15(11): 298-305.'),(8035,'169','Effect of Pinching and Different Plant Growth Regulators on Growth, Yield and Quality of Vegetable Cowpea','Ajanya P., V.S. Kale, A.M. Sonkamble, N.M. Konde and T.H. Rathod','Effect-of-Pinching-and-Different-Plant-Growth-Regulators-on-Growth-Yield-and-Quality-of-Vegetable-Cowpea-Ajanya-P-54.pdf','',1,'Pinching and application of growth regulators are known to influence the plant characteristics in several ways. Prior to performing pinching operations, it is crucial to determine the optimal growth stage, timing, and extent for better results; while plant growth regulators can be highly beneficial, their correct usage is essential, as misuse can potentially harm plants, and their application should be timed in accordance with developmental stages. Therefore present investigation entitled “Effect of pinching and different plant growth regulators on growth, yield and quality of vegetable cowpea” was conducted in the year 2022-23, at Instructional Farm, Department of Vegetable Science, Dr. Panjabrao Deshmukh Krishi Vidyapeeth, Akola with the objective to study the effect of pinching and plant growth regulators and to find out the suitable plant growth regulator with concentration and pinching for growth, yield and quality of vegetable cowpea cv. PDKV Rutuja. The experiment was laid out in Factorial Randomized Block Design (FRBD) with fourteen treatment combinations. First factor of pinching with two levels viz., with pinching (at 30 DAS) and without pinching and second factor of different plant growth regulators with seven levels viz., GA3 20ppm, GA3 40ppm, 6BA 20ppm, 6BA 40ppm, CCC 100ppm, CCC 200ppm and control. The treatments were replicated thrice. The results of present investigation revealed that, the growth parameters in terms of plant height, branches per plant, number of leaves was increased with the spraying of GA3 at 40ppm. Whereas pinching at 30 DAS increased all growth parameters except plant height. The yield and yield contributing characters viz., days to flower initiation, number of green pods per plant, pod length, seeds per pod, average weight of green pod, green pod yield were increased with application of GA3 at 40ppm and also with pinching at 30 DAS. The quality parameters such as protein content per pod, chlorophyll index of leaves was increased due to spraying of GA3 40 ppm and also with pinching at 30 DAS. As regards to the interaction effect of pinching and different growth regulators, the treatment combination P1H2 viz., cowpea plants pinched at 30 DAS and sprayed with GA3 at 40ppm produced maximum number of branches per plant, number of green pods per plant, average weight of green pod, green pod yield and also protein content per pod.','Cowpea, Pinching, Plant growth regulators, Growth, Yield, Quality','Based on the findings of the present investigation, it can be concluded that pinching and application of different plant growth regulators significantly influences the growth, yield and quality of cowpea. Among the various treatments, the combination of pinching at 30 days after sowing and foliar spray with GA3 at 40 ppm at 30 and 60 DAS demonstrated notable advantages, resulting in enhanced growth, increased green pod yield, and improved quality.','-','Ajanya P., V.S. Kale, A.M. Sonkamble, N.M. Konde and T.H. Rathod (2023). Effect of Pinching and Different Plant Growth Regulators on Growth, Yield and Quality of Vegetable Cowpea. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 15(11): 306-312.'),(8036,'168','Isolation, Identification and Characterization of Colletotrichum gloeosporioides (Penz. and Sacc.) Associated with Post-harvest Anthracnose of Mango','Rahul L. Joshi, V.B. Virani, H.A. Shekhada, D.H. Tandel, Mansi D. Prajapati and Susheel Singh ','Isolation-Identification-and-Characterization-of-Colletotrichum-gloeosporioides-(Penz.-and-Sacc.)-Associated-with-Post-harvest-Anthracnose-of-Mango-Rahul-L-Joshi-299.pdf','',1,'The mango (Mangifera indica L.) crop is susceptible to numerous diseases, among them anthracnose, induced by Colletotrichum gloeosporioides (Penz. and Sacc.) emerging as a significant menace to mango production. They potentially causing estimated yield losses of 100% in plantations lacking effective management. Various strains within the Colletotrichum complexes are implicated inmangoanthracnose on a global scale. So, the present investigation focused on the isolation, identification and characterization of the Colletotrichum gloeosporioides (Penz and Sacc.) causing anthracnose disease in mango fruits. Mango fruits exhibiting disease symptoms were collected from various markets in the Navsari district and brought to the laboratory. Cultural and morphological characterization revealed that pathogen produce whitish colonies with smooth, hyaline, and sub-cylindrical spores with rounded ends were obtained from anthracnose-infected fruits. The recorded dimensions of conidia ranged from 3.70 to 11.40 µm in length and 1.30 to 2.22 µm in width. Confirmation of the causal organism was achieved through the inoculation of healthy mango fruits using the cork borer injury method. The inoculated fruits exhibited similar disease symptoms within 7-10 days after inoculation, thereby confirming Koch\'s postulate. The inoculated fungi were produced similar symptoms and Koch’s postulate was proved by re–isolation of the same fungi. Thus, the causal organism of anthracnose under present investigation confirmed as C. gloeosporioides. This study employed a comprehensive approach, combining isolation, morphological identification and Koch\'s postulate confirmation to provide a thorough understanding of the anthracnose disease dynamics in mangoes.','Mango, C. gloeosporioides, Isolation, Identification, Characterization','In conclusion, this investigation confirmed that anthracnose-infected fruits produced whitish colony, conidia were smooth, hyaline and sub cylindrical with round end are observed. Fungal culture obtained from the respective disease symptoms was inoculated into healthy mango fruit by cork borer injury method. The inoculated fungi were produced similar symptoms and Koch’s postulate was proved by re–isolation of the same fungi. Thus, the causal organism of anthracnose under present investigation confirmed as C. gloeosporioides. The study employed a comprehensive approach, combining isolation, morphological identification and Koch\'s postulate confirmation to provide a thorough understanding of the anthracnose disease dynamics in mangoes. This information is valuable for devising effective management strategies to mitigate the impact of anthracnose on mango cultivation.','-','Rahul L. Joshi, V.B. Virani, H.A. Shekhada, D.H. Tandel, Mansi D. Prajapati and Susheel Singh (2023). Isolation, Identification and Characterization of Colletotrichum gloeosporioides (Penz. and Sacc.) Associated with Post-harvest Anthracnose of Mango. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 15(10): 1643-1646.'),(8037,'150','An Appraisal of Benthic Meiofaunal Diversity and Distribution along Estuaries of Peninsular India','Sumesh S. and Abraham, K.M. ','An-Appraisal-of-Benthic-Meiofaunal-Diversity-and-Distribution-along-Estuaries-of-Peninsular-India-Kurian-Mathew-Abraham-130.pdf','',1,'One of the most phyletically diverse fauna, the meiofauna of sediments is now focused for ecological monitoring, bioreactors, bioturbators and many more. Now a days meiofaunal researches are gaining popularity as a result of increasing use of aquatic ecosystems and resources, advancing collaborative, multi-disciplinary scientific studies on ecosystem dynamics, functions and processes is becoming more pertinent. Meiobenthology is gaining importance as it deals with the role of meiobenthos in ecosystem function, taxonomy, systematics and evolution of meiobenthos, use of meiobenthos within the assessment of environmental consequences and response of meiobenthos to environmental change. Meiobenthos is another widely distributed biodiversity group as it differs with environment like freshwater, estuarine and marine ecosystems and main works are mainly associated with marine as well as estuarine environments of which the studies from estuarine meiobenthic diversity and distribution are moderate from Indian subcontinent. This review attempts to compile studies on diversity and distribution of benthic meiofauna along estuaries of peninsular India using available data from internet based indexing/abstracting sources.','Benthos, Meiobenthos, Nematodes, Biodiversity','Once, the reason for meiofaunal research being neglected was due to its small size and the perception that small organisms are hard to study and of limited ecological importance. Even though a number of studies have been emanated on meiobenthos from different part of the world, studies and literature from Indian subcontinent was comparatively less due to various reasons including demand for expertise in taxonomy of diverse invertebrate and vertebrate groups spread over different habitats like marine, estuarine and freshwater benthic ecosystems. However, in India, meiofaunal study predominantly focused Nematoda and Harpacticoida (Copepod) and some extend in Polychaeta and majority of the existing works are also not undergone to level of species. Most of the studies before 20th century on meiofaunal account were only on ecological line, in spite of it the qualitative and quantitative research works using appropriate sampling devices is comparatively recent. Unavailability of satisfactory taxonomic description was one of the challenge researchers faced. Owing to the incorrect available sources it was difficult for them to get the same organism from their study sites. Another difficulty associated with meiofaunal taxonomy was their delicate nature which makes morphological study without preservation strenuous. Hence they had to euthanize the organisms before their work. From the review it is apparent that meiofaunal research need a lot of manpower and effort must be taken to create fruitful data so that the scientific community as well as common people will be benefited.','-','Sumesh S. and Abraham, K.M. (2023). An Appraisal of Benthic Meiofaunal Diversity and Distribution along Estuaries of Peninsular India. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 15(3): 833-838.'),(8038,'150','Effect of in situ Action of Serotonin in Transmembrane Ion Transport in Mice Exposed to Restraint Stress','Manish, K., Sajeeb Khan, A., Praveen Kumar P.P.,Nandini N.J. and Ayana Gayathri R.V. ','Effect-of-in-situ-Action-of-Serotonin-in-Transmembrane-Ion-Transport-in-Mice-Exposed-to-Restraint-Stress-Manish-K-131.pdf','',1,'Serotonin (5-HT) is known to be a key modulator of stress effects. However, its role in ion transport during stress response is not yet understood. The dose-dependent effect of in situ serotonin was examined in Swiss albino mice. 10-9 M 5-HT perfusion dose seems to be effective in producing a pronounced effect on most of the tissues. Perfusion of serotonin at 10-9 M for 20 minutes produced a significant decrease in Na+, K+-ATPase activity in the kidney, liver, stomach and intestinal tissues. A dose-responsive decrease in cytosolic and mitochondrial H+ ATPase activity was found in these tissues after serotonin perfusion. Likewise, the cytosolic and mitochondrial Ca2+ ATPase activities decreased in the kidney, liver, stomach and intestine. The mitochondrial Mg2+ ATPase activity decreased in the tested tissues in a dose-responsive manner. Subjecting mice to restraint stress for seven days increased the Na+, K+-ATPase, H+ ATPase, Ca2+ ATPase and Mg2+ ATPase activities to significant levels in kidney, liver, stomach and intestinal tissues. On the contrary, in-situ perfusion of serotonin to stressed mice at 10-9 M caused decrease in the stress-induced hyperactivity of these transmembrane ion transporters. The above results show a role of serotonin in ion transporter activity and suggest the mitigation role of serotonin in ion transport during stress response in mice. ','ATPase, Serotonin, Mice, Stress','-','-','Manish, K., Sajeeb Khan, A., Praveen Kumar P.P.,Nandini N.J. and Ayana Gayathri R.V. (2023). Effect of in situ Action of Serotonin in Transmembrane Ion Transport in Mice Exposed to Restraint Stress. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 15(3): 839-850.'),(8039,'169','Factors Affecting the Agripreneurial Behaviour of Rural youth involved in Poultry as an Enterprise','Ashish Kumar Nagar, Kamini Bisht, Seema Naberia, Deepak Rathi and R.B. Singh ','Factors-Affecting-the-Agripreneurial-Behaviour-of-Rural-youth-involved-in-Poultry-as-an-Enterprise-Ashish-Kumar-Nagar-55.pdf','',1,'The Indian Council of Agricultural Research (ICAR) launched Project ARYA in 2016. The project\'s main objectives are to entice rural youth to participate in India\'s agricultural sector and to create employment opportunities in the agricultural and related sectors. Poultry farming is an important enterprise for providing income and employment for rural youth. The KVK has also helped the rural youth groups, including sourcing the inputs and marketing their products. A study found that the majority of poultry owners, i.e., 58.34% of rural youth, exhibited a low level of agripreneurial behaviour in unsuccessful/discontinued enterprises. The majority (50%) of respondents exhibited a medium level of agripreneurial behaviour in successful enterprises. The agripreneurial behaviour of rural youth of successful poultry enterprises correlated positively and significantly with factors like. Education, agri-enterprise experience, occupation, social participation, family size, land holding, annual income, attitude of rural youth towards agri-enterprise, extension contact, and mass media exposure.','ARYA Project, rural youth, employment, capacity building, poultry, marketing, agripreneurial behavior, annual income, attitude of rural youth','The prevalence of moderate agripreneurial behavior among rural youth with successful poultry enterprise underscores a balanced approach in managing these enterprises. For those who discontinued their ventures, the distribution between low and medium agripreneurial behavior indicates varied reasons for discontinuation, possibly including challenges in sustaining entrepreneurial efforts. The positive and significant relationships observed between various profile attributes and agripreneurial behavior underscore the multidimensional nature of entrepreneurship in the context of poultry cultivation.\r\nUnderstanding the nuances of agripreneurial behavior is crucial for designing targeted interventions and support systems that can enhance the sustainability and success of poultry enterprises among rural youth. This analysis provides a foundation for further research and the development of strategies to bolster entrepreneurial capabilities in the context of poultry cultivation.\r\n','-','Ashish Kumar Nagar, Kamini Bisht, Seema Naberia, Deepak Rathi and R.B. Singh (2023). Factors Affecting the Agripreneurial Behaviour of Rural youth involved in Poultry as an Enterprise. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 15(11): 313-317.'),(8040,'169','Influence of Organics on Physiological and Quality Parameters of Tomato (Lycopersicon esculentum Mill.)','Queen Sonowal, B.P. Gautam, Nayanmoni Buragohain, H. Choudhury and Ranima Mishra','Influence-of-Organics-on-Physiological-and-Quality-Parameters--of-Tomato-(Lycopersicon-esculentum--Mill.)-Nayanmoni-Buragohain-56.pdf','',1,'The over reliance of conventional agriculture on synthetic chemical inputs such as fertilizers and pesticides has led to environmental degradation, soil erosion and water pollution, posing risks to biodiversity and human health though they increase the crop yield. At present, the use of organic amendments in agriculture has gained considerable attention due to their potential benefits in enhancing soil fertility, crop productivity and sustainability. A field experiment was undertaken to study the effect of organic treatments on physiological and quality parameters of tomato at the Instructional cum Research Farm, Biswanath College of Agriculture, Assam Agricultural University, Biswanath Chariali during 2020-2021. The results revealed that both the parameters were significantly influenced by various treatments. The organic treatment Enriched compost≈@10 t/ha FYM + 10% Cow urine + 10% Dung brew spray recorded the highest total leaf chlorophyll content (1.90 mg g-1fw), chlorophyll stability index (52.30%) and relative leaf water content(79.92 %) at 45 days after transplanting(DAT), fresh and dry weight of leaf at 30 DAT(3.28 and 0.561g) and at harvest(2.29 and 0.496 g), leaf are a per plant(633.34 and 1083.34 cm2) at 30 and 45 DAT and leaf area index(3.34 and 4.66) at 30 and 45 DAT. This treatment also resulted the highest TSS (6.10 °Brix), lycopene (8.92 mg/100g) and ascorbic acid content (31.92 mg/100g) in the fruit. Hence, in conclusion, it can be suggested that use of organic manure and liquid manure results in production of quality fruits with superior physiological attributes in tomato.','Tomato, organic, physiological, quality, production','It has been observed from the present investigation the inorganic treatment T1 with recommended dose of fertilizers performed best for physiological characters among all the treatments. But among the organic treatments the treatment T13 with Enriched compost ≈ @10 t/ha FYM + 10% Cow urine + 10% Dung brew spray performed best. For quality parameter T13 \r\nshowed superiority among all the treatments. Therefore it can be concluded that Enriched compost≈@10 t/ha FYM + 10% Cow urine + 10% Dung brew can be used for production of quality fruits with superior physiological and quality attributes of tomato plants under organic production in Assam condition.\r\n','-','Queen Sonowal, B.P. Gautam, Nayanmoni Buragohain, H. Choudhury and Ranima Mishra (2023). Influence of Organics on Physiological and Quality Parameters of Tomato (Lycopersicon esculentum Mill.). Biological Forum – An International Journal, 15(11): 318-324.'),(8041,'169','Profile Characteristics of the Vegetable Grower Members and Non-members of Farmer Producer Organization','P.B. Kharde, G.K. Sasane, P.S. Latamble and Ramesh C. Bunkar','Profile-Characteristics-of-the-Vegetable-Grower-Members-and-Non-members-of-Farmer-Producer-Organization-PB-Kharde-57.pdf','',1,'Collectivization of producers, especially small and marginal farmers, into producer organizations has emerged as one of the most effective pathway to address the many challenges of agriculture such as small and fragmented land holdings, lack of marketing and storage facilities, credit availability etc. Department of Agriculture and Cooperation, Ministry of Agriculture, Govt. of India has identified that FPO is the most appropriate institutional form to mobilize farmers and build their capacity to leverage their production and marketing strength. Two functional FPO were selected from Pune district of Maharashtra and from that180 vegetable grower members of FPO and 180 non-members were selected for the research. Primarily socio-economic and personal characteristic of each member and non-member was considered for the study. According to the study, Majority of FPC members vegetable growers were middle age (45.55%)and 42.78 per cent non-members were middle aged, 34.44 per cent and 28.33 per cent vegetable grower members of FPC and non-members are having secondary education, 29.44 per cent and 31.67 per cent members and non-members had very low farming experience up to 14 years, Majority of Member (63.89%) and Non-members (54.44%) had medium level of annual income, majority of member and non-members are under small farmer category i.e. having land 1.01 to 2.00ha, 54.44 per cent and 43.89 per cent of FPC member and non-members had medium area under vegetable crop. The results also showed that most respondents have medium extension contact, mass media exposure, economic motivation and marketing behaviour.','FPO, Vegetable growers, Member, Non-member and marketing strength','Overall findings of the study stated that majority of vegetable grower members of FPC had 36 to 55 years age received up to secondary education, were having 22 to 28 years farming experience, medium annual income, small land holders, having medium area under vegetable crop, extension contact, mass media exposure, economic motivation and marketing behaviour is medium level.\r\nMajority of FPC non-members middle aged, secondary level education, up to 14years farming experience, medium annual income, having land from 1.01 to 2.00ha, medium area under vegetable crop, medium level of extension contact, mass media exposure, economic motivation and marketing behaviour. The empirical findings of the study can produce helping hands for the future researchers, reviewers, policymakers to study impact of the similar type of research. \r\n','-','P.B. Kharde, G.K. Sasane, P.S. Latamble and Ramesh C. Bunkar (2023). Profile Characteristics of the Vegetable Grower Members and Non-members of Farmer Producer Organization. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 15(11): 325-328.'),(8042,'169','Association Studies for Identifying the Selection Criteria Among Early varieties of Rice in North Coastal Zone of Andhra Pradesh','P.V. Satyanarayana, K. Madhu Kumar, P. Uday Babu, T. Srinivas and Duppala Manojkumar','Association-Studies-for-Identifying-the-Selection-Criteria-Among-Early-varieties-of-Rice-in-North-Coastal-Zone-of-Andhra-Pradesh-Duppala-Manojkumar-58.pdf','',1,'Rice yields were affected by various heritable and non-heritable components, the present investigation was undertaken to study the variability, heritability, genetic advance, character associations, path coefficients, principal component analysis of yield component traits along with principal component analysis study in early duration varieties of rice for identification of effective selection criteria for grain yield improvement. A notable observation was made regarding the high phenotypic coefficient of variation (PCV) and genotypic coefficient of variation (GCV), accompanied by elevated heritability and genetic advance as a percentage of the mean for traits such as filled grains per panicle, total grains per panicle, test weight, and grain yield per plant. This suggests the viability of direct phenotypic selection for enhancing these characteristics. Principal component analysis revealed that four principal components with eigenvalues exceeding 1 accounted for 86.5% of the variability in PC1. Filled grains per panicle and total grains per panicle contributed significantly to this variability, with filled grains per panicle showing a positive direct effect and a noteworthy positive correlation with grain yield per plant. Consequently, filled grains per panicle is identified as a promising selection criterion for improving grain yield in the early stages of rice crop cultivation.','Rice, Correlation Analysis, Genetic Advance, Heritability, Path Analysis, Principal component analysis','Substantial Genetic Coefficient of Variation (GCV), Phenotypic Coefficient of Variation (PCV), heritability, and genetic advance as a percentage were observed for productive tillers per plant, filled grains per panicle, total grains per panicle, and grain yield per plant. This observation indicates the viability of employing direct phenotypic selection to enhance these traits. Notably, productive tillers per plant and filled grains per panicle demonstrated a positive direct effect, along with a significant and positive correlation with grain yield per plant. Consequently, these traits, particularly productive tillers per plant and filled grains per panicle, are identified as effective selection criteria for enhancing grain yield in the early stages of rice crop cultivation. Principal component analysis further underscores the significance of filled grains per panicle as the key selection trait.','-','P.V. Satyanarayana, K. Madhu Kumar, P. Uday Babu, T. Srinivas and Duppala Manojkumar (2023). Association Studies for Identifying the Selection Criteria Among Early varieties of Rice in North Coastal Zone of Andhra Pradesh. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 15(11): 329-335.'),(8043,'147','Assessment of Salicylic Acid and KNO3 impacts on quality parameters of Tomato (Solanum lycopersicum L.) under water stress condition','Deeptimayee Sahoo, Dipika Sahoo, Gouri Shankar Sahu, Pradyumna Tripathy, Swarnalata Das and Rajkumari Bhol','Assessment-of-Salicylic-Acid-and-KNO3-impacts-on-quality-parameters-of-Tomato-(Solanum-lycopersicum-L.)-unsder-water-stress-condition-Deeptimayee-Sahoo-144.pdf','',1,'The abiotic stresses such as temperature, drought and salinity and unusual warming trends during growth stage are causing yield and quality decline. Drought has been identified as a major threat restricting crop production worldwide. Drought or water deficit stress elicits many different physiological responses in plants. Hence, there are intensive efforts to improve plant tolerance to drought and other environmental stressors. The use of elicitors such as salicylic acid (SA) and KNO3 is an emerging novel practice to improve the yield and quality of crops as they play an important role in the regulation of various physiological and metabolic processes. The objective of this research was to study the effect of the foliar application of SA and KNO3 on the quality of tomato fruits under water stress condition. A completely randomized experimental design with 3 replications was used. The experiment comprised of ten treatments of different concentrations of Salicylic Acid and KNO3 along with one stress check treatment and stress free check treatment. Treatments were applied at pre flowering stage and 50% fruiting stage through foliar sprays after transplantation. The response variables were fruit quality parameters (fruit length, fruit diameter, fruit weight, total soluble solids, and Ascorbic Acid content). The obtained results suggest that the foliar spraying of SA and KNO3 improves the biosynthesis of phyto-chemical compounds in tomato fruits, compared to control plants. According to the results, it is advisable to use the dose of 100 PPM of SA since it has a higher content of bioactive compounds which gives highest quality outputs in stress condition without compromising yield. We suggest salicylic acid might be considered as a potential growth regulator to improve tomato plant drought stress resistance, in the current era of global climate change.','Salicylic Acid, KNO3, elicitors, Phyto-chemical compounds','The tomato (Solanum lycsopersicum L.) is one of the most important vegetables in the world due to its nutritional, economic, and social values; it is particularly important in human nutrition due to its antioxidant properties (Stoleru et al., 2020). Environmental stress, such as water limitation, adversely influence the quality attributes of Tomato. In this predicament, plants, alone, can’t mitigate the damaging effects. Therefore, Tomato plants need exogenous support to cope drought stress which is facilitated by the osmo-protectants such as Salicylic Acid to carry out various process of osmo-protection to enhance yield and quality. Based on the results of the study, it can be said that Tomato variety BT-10 responded favourably in terms of quality-attributing traits. In terms of quality attributing features, the treatment combination T5 (100 ppm S.A) showed higher performance in water stress condition. So, Salicylic Acid can be considered as an important source that can improve various quality parameters under water stress conditions resulting in higher yield and ultimately the higher return. ','-','Deeptimayee Sahoo, Dipika Sahoo, Gouri Shankar Sahu, Pradyumna Tripathy, Swarnalata Das and Rajkumari Bhol (2022). Assessment of Salicylic Acid and KNO3 impacts on quality parameters of Tomato (Solanum lycopersicum L.) under water stress condition. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 14(4a): 833-839.'),(8044,'169','Evaluation of F7 Generation Brinjal (Solanum melongena L.) Crosses for Uniformity and Stability','Anupriya Chowdary M., Usha Kumari K., Paratpara Rao M. and Gangadhara Rao P. ','Evaluation-of-F7-generation-Brinjal-(Solanum-melongena-L.)-crosses-for-uniformity-and-stability-Anupriya-Chowdary-M-59.pdf','',1,'The present investigation was carried out to identify uniform and stable populations in 17 F7 plant progenies selected from F6 generation and to isolate the segregants. The experiment was taken up in a Randomised Block Design with two replications at College of Horticulture, Dr. YSRHU, Venkataramannagudem during Rabi, 2022-23. 17 F7 progeny populations were evaluated for homogenous and homozygous nature for all the fifteen qualitative characters. Analysis of variance was done for overall population of each progeny. Out of seventeen F7 progenies, 10 progenies were found to behomozygous and homogenous for all the quantitative characters. ','Brinjal, F7 generation, uniformity, stability','From the present study, it could be concluded that the superior seventeen F7 plant progenies selected fromF6 generation of brinjal were evaluated for uniformity, stability. The populations showing homozygous and homogenous nature were promoted for F8generation for further studies. Populations that were showing variation in yield contributing characters were isolated and were discarded. Treatments of totally 12 populations viz, T1, T2, T3, T6, T7, T9, T10, T11, T12, T13, T16 and T17 were selected for further studies as they were showing non significant values for all the fifteen quantitative characters (above mentioned characters) whereas, T9 and T12 showed variation for the characters, plant height (cm) and number of primary branches. The variation for these vegetative parameters in these population might be due to management practices and environment. Hence these plant populations were considered.','-','Anupriya Chowdary M., Usha Kumari K., Paratpara Rao M. and Gangadhara Rao P. (2023). Evaluation of F7 generation Brinjal (Solanum melongena L.) crosses for uniformity and stability. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 15(11): 336-338.'),(8045,'169','Towards Superior Pearl millet [Pennisetum glaucum (L.) R. Br.] Varieties: Unraveling Combining Ability and Heterosis for Improved Grain Yield','Gajjar K.D., Patel M.S., Zala H.N., Prajapati N.N. and Patel Y.N.','Towards-Superior-Pearl-millet-[Pennisetum-glaucum-(L.)-R.-Br.]-Varieties-Unraveling-Combining-Ability-and-Heterosis-for-Improved-Grain-Yield-Gajjar-KD-60.pdf','',1,'The research aimed to conduct a comprehensive genetic analysis in pearl millet [Pennisetum glaucum (L.) R. Br.], focusing on per se performance, heterosis extent, general combining ability of parents, and specific combining ability of hybrids concerning yield and its component characters. A set of 37 genotypes, including 28 hybrids derived from a diallel mating design with 8 parental lines and a standard check (GHB 1129), constituted the experimental material. The study, conducted at the Centre for Crop Improvement, Sardarkrushinagar Dantiwada Agricultural University, Gujarat, during the kharif season of 2021, involved the recording of thirteen observations encompassing various agronomic traits. Analysis of variance for parents and hybrids demonstrated highly significant mean squares for all characters, indicating substantial genetic variability within the experimental material. Comparisons between parents and hybrids revealed significant heterosis across all characters. Notably, parent 08444 B exhibited promising per se performance for grain yield per plant, panicle length, panicle weight, and test weight. In contrast, parent 2889 B displayed promise for plant height, number of productive tillers per plant, test weight, iron content, and zinc content. Among the 28 hybrids, crosses 08444 B × 05888 B and 08444 B × 15388 R demonstrated superior per se performance for panicle length, panicle weight, and grain yield per plant, suggesting their potential for enhancing grain yield and related attributes in pearl millet. Hybrids exhibited significant heterosis, ranging from low to high, over mid parent, better parent, and standard check in the desired direction for all traits, except for days to flowering, panicle diameter, and days to maturity. Combining ability analysis revealed highly significant variance for both gca and sca for all characters. The predominance of non-additive gene action was indicated by the ratio of σ2gca/σ2sca being less than unity. Among the parents, 05888 B, 08444 B, and 15388 R were identified as the best combiners for grain yield per plant and other component traits based on gca effects. Specific combining ability effects highlighted significant contributions from crosses, with 08444 B × 15388 R and 08444 B × 05888 B showing notable sca in the desirable direction for grain yield per plant and other important characters. At present, emphasis in pearl millet breeding is given on developing diverse hybrids, nutrition rich open-pollinated varieties and populations having multiple disease resistance. In this direction, it is necessary to develop new superior male sterile lines, restorers and inbreds having high combining ability, wide variability and disease resistance, which requires the good knowledge of gene action. These findings provide valuable insights for developing superior hybrids and inbreds in pearl millet.','Pearl millet, Heterosis, Hybrid, Grain yield per plant and Combining ability','The comprehensive analysis of variance for both parents and hybrids underscored the substantial genetic variability present in the pearl millet population under investigation. The parents exhibited significant diversity in key agronomic traits, with 08444 B and 2889 B emerging as promising contributors to desirable characteristics. Among the hybrids, 08444 B × 05888 B and 08444 B × 15388 R displayed superior per se performance for panicle traits and grain yield, indicating their potential for enhancing grain yield and associated attributes in pearl millet. Overall, these findings contribute valuable insights to the on-going efforts in pearl millet breeding, offering prospects for the development of improved varieties with enhanced yield and nutritional attributes.','-','Gajjar K.D., Patel M.S., Zala H.N., Prajapati N.N. and Patel Y.N. (2023). Towards Superior Pearl millet [Pennisetum glaucum (L.) R. Br.]Varieties: Unraveling Combining Ability and Heterosis for Improved Grain Yield. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 15(11): 339-348.'),(8046,'169','Gluten-Free Pasta: A Comprehensive Review of Alternative Grains and Formulation Approaches','Roopal Mishra, S.K. Garg and Mohan Singh ','Gluten-Free-Pasta-A-Comprehensive-Review-of-Alternative-Grains-and-Formulation-Approaches-Roopal-Mishra-61.pdf','',1,'This review paper provides a comprehensive analysis of gluten-free pasta products, focusing on their development, ingredients, sensory attributes, nutritional profiles and consumer acceptance. The growing demand for gluten-free options driven by celiac disease, non-celiac gluten sensitivity and consumer preference has led to a surge in gluten-free pasta innovation. This paper evaluates the current landscape of gluten-free pasta products, highlighting their strengths and areas for improve men. The review begins by discussing the challenges associated with gluten-free pasta production including the absence of gluten\'s unique viscoelastic properties which plays a crucial role in traditional pasta structure and texture. It highlights the importance of identifying alternative grains and starches with the potential to mimic gluten\'s functionality. Alternative grains, including rice, corn, quinoa, amaranth, buckwheat and legume flours have been extensively studied and utilized in gluten-free pasta formulations. Each grain possesses distinct characteristics, nutritional profiles and flavour profiles, influencing the overall quality of gluten-free pasta. The review evaluates the suitability of these grains based on sensory attributes, cooking properties and nutritional benefits. Furthermore, the review explores various formulation approaches and techniques used to enhance the quality of gluten-free pasta. These include the incorporation of hydrocolloids, proteins and enzymes to improve texture and reduce cooking time. Additionally, the use of extrusion technology, which allows for precise control over pasta shape and texture is examined. Consideration is given to the importance of sensory evaluation, consumer acceptance, and market trends in the development and commercialization of gluten-free pasta products. The review highlights the need for continuous innovation and research to meet the evolving demands of consumers for gluten-free pasta product.','Gluten-free pasta, Celiac Disease, Millets, Extrusion Technology, Consumer Preference, Sensory','In conclusion, the gluten-free pasta industry is poised for further growth and innovation as it addresses consumer needs for health-conscious, diverse and sustainable food options. With ongoing research and advancements the industry will continue to improve product quality and cater to a broader consumer base in the upcoming years. This comprehensive review underscores the growing importance of gluten-free pasta as a viable and nutritious alternative for individuals with dietary restrictions. It offers a valuable resource for food scientists, manufacturers and researchers seeking to advance the quality, variety and accessibility of gluten-free pasta products. The study showed that the majority of consumers anticipated and discussed product innovation in the food categories on social and editorial media, namely in the areas of fast foods i.e., pasta, spaghetti and noodles. By exploring alternative grains and innovative formulation strategies, the food industry can continue to meet the expanding market demand for gluten-free options while satisfying the palates and nutritional needs of a diverse consumer base. The gluten-free pasta industry has experienced significant growth and transformation in recent years driven by evolving consumer preferences and a better understanding of gluten-related health issues. This review has highlighted several key findings and insights of alternative grains and formulations in development of Gluten Free Pasta.','-','Roopal Mishra, S.K. Garg and Mohan Singh (2023). Gluten-Free Pasta: A Comprehensive Review of Alternative Grains and Formulation Approaches. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 15(11): 349-354.'),(8047,'169','Effect of Different Sources of Organic Manures on Growth and Yield of Chilli','Ajay Tripathi, Jatin Kumar Singh, Pradumn Kumar Mourya, Pravesh Chaudhary, Amrendra Kumar Chaudhary and Abhay Kumar Kannaujiya ','Effect of Different Sources of Organic Manures on Growth and Yield of Chilli-Ajay Tripathi-62.pdf','',1,'A randomized design was used to test different organic manures treatments affected the growth and yield of Kashi Anmol variety in the field seven treatments were applied, T1- 100% Recommended dose of fertilizer (RDF), T2- 100% FYM T3- 100% GM, T4-100% VC, T5- 50% VC+ 50% FYM, T6-50% GM+ 50% FYM, T7-33.3% GM+33.3% FYM+ 33.3% VC. The results demonstrated that treatment T5 exhibited the highest growth and yield, and T2 showed significantly higher economic profits compared to the other treatments, with T5 achieving a gross monetary return of 5,50,050 ha-1 and T5 achieving a higher net income of 3,87,200 ha-1. The benefit-cost ratio was highest at 3.77 with T2. The findings suggested that organic manures, involving the combined application of vermicompost, and FYM, can effectively enhance the productivity of chilli. Considering the cost-benefit ratio, it is recommended to use FYM 100% at a rate of 25 tons per hectare to maximize farmer profits. This combination can provide a balance between yield improvement and cost-effectiveness, ensuring sustainable and profitable cultivation of chilli. Balancing and optimizing various organic manure sources to enhance chili growth and yield poses a complex challenge in this research.','Kashi Anmol, organic manure, chilli, economic, eastern Uttar Pradesh','From the above result it was concluded that the application of 50% VC +50% FYM (Treatment T5) positively influenced various aspects of plant growth, leading to superior performance in terms of height (cm), flowering time, branch development, and leaf area (cm2). It significantly enhanced various yield parameters. These included the number of fruits per plant, length of fruit (cm), diameter of fruit (cm2), fruit yield per hectare (q), and fruit yield per plant (kg). The incorporation of VC and FYM at this concentration proved to be effective in promoting the growth, development, and overall productivity of the fruit plants.\r\nThe economic parameters evaluated in the study clearly indicate that the treatment T2, involving the application of 50% VC+50% FYM outperformed other treatments in terms of gross monetary returns, net monetary returns, and the benefit-to-cost ratio higher in T2 (FYM). These findings suggest that the incorporation of 50% VC+50%FYM at this particular concentration in chilli plant cultivation can be a financially rewarding strategy, as it leads to increased revenue, higher profits, and a favourable return on investment.\r\n','-','Ajay Tripathi, Jatin Kumar Singh, Pradumn Kumar Mourya, Pravesh Chaudhary, Amrendra Kumar Chaudhary and Abhay Kumar Kannaujiya (2023). Effect of Different Sources of Organic Manures on Growth and Yield of Chilli. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 15(11): 355-360.'),(8048,'170','Soybean Bacterial Endophytes Bacillus subtilis (EB-1) and Bacillus amyloliquefaciens (EB-2) against Anthracnose survival in Leaf and Soil','Sapna Jaiswal, Jayant Bhatt, Laxman Singh Rajput, Hemant Singh Maheshwari, Vibha Pandey, Mahaveer Prasad Sharma, Vennampally Nataraj and Sanjeev Kumar ','Soybean-Bacterial-Endophytes-Bacillus-subtilis-(EB-1)-and-Bacillus-amyloliquefaciens-(EB-2)-against-Anthracnose-survival-in-Leaf-and-Soil-Sapna-Jaiswal-5.pdf','',1,'Bacterial endophytes employ various direct and indirect mechanisms for plant growth promotion under biotic stress upon colonization. To successfully establish endophytes as plant growth promoters, colonization and population density-dependent process, quorum sensing is essential. Therefore, the present study aimed at assessing the efficacy of foliar and basal application of two soybean plant growth-promoting bacterial endophytes having biocontrol activity against soybean anthracnose, namely Bacillus subtilis strain 5 (EB-1) and Bacillus amyloliquefaciens strain 14 (EB-2) in the soybean seedling. These two endophytes priliminarily screened for antibiotic resistance using a disc diffusion method to make the selective culture medium suitable for bacterial re-isolation from plant tissues. Bacterial endophytes were applied as foliar and basal inoculation on the soybean variety. Then, the bacterial population within the leaf tissues and rhizosphere soil was enumerated in the nutrient agar plate amended with antibiotics. Our study showed that the EB-1 and EB-2 showed significantly lower survival in the leaf tissues and the rhizospheric soils. However, the bacterium EB-1 and EB-2 survival rates were significantly higher in the leaf and soil tissue, respectively, compared with each other. Further, we identified the maximum survival period of these bacterial endophytes was 30 days in leaf tissue. Therefore, the present findings showed that endophytic bacterial suspension has to be applied at 30-day intervals. And we identified the maximum survival period of these bacterial endophytes in leaf tissue and soil and explained their role in providing biological control against diseases.','Bacillus subtilis (EB-1), Bacillus amyloliquefaciens (EB-2), colonization, antibiotic susceptibility, Anthracnose, and survival','We concluded that both the soybean bacterial endophytes applied through foliar and basal inoculation near the stem showed a significant decrease in the bacterial population. However, soybean bacterial endophytes could survive for up to 30 days in the leaf tissues. Therefore, we need to spray the bacterial suspension every 30 days to see the positive effect on plant growth and the inhibitory action against soybean anthracnose. Furthermore, other methods of bacterial delivery, such as seed treatments, should be tested for the survival and efficacy of the endophytes.','-','Sapna Jaiswal, Jayant Bhatt, Laxman Singh Rajput, Hemant Singh Maheshwari, Vibha Pandey, Mahaveer Prasad Sharma, Vennampally Nataraj and Sanjeev Kumar (2023). Soybean Bacterial Endophytes Bacillus subtilis (EB-1) and Bacillus amyloliquefaciens (EB-2) against Anthracnose survival in Leaf and Soil. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 15(12): 20-24.'),(8049,'168','Response of NPK fertilizer on enhancing the soil properties of Garlic (Allium sativum L.) field','Manisha Kumari, Pintu Kumar, Saurabh Raj, Pravin Kumar, Deepak Kumar, Sangeeta Shree and Vijay Kumar Singh ','Response-of-NPK-fertilizer-on-enhancing-the-soil-properties-of-Garlic-(Allium-sativum-L.)-field-Pintu-Kumar-300.pdf','',1,'Effect of different doses of nitrogen, phosphorous and potassium (NPK) combinations on soil physiochemical property of soil and its component in various garlic (Allium sativum L.) genotypes was studied during 2018 and 2019. The experiment comprises three level of fertilizers i.e. F1-N100P80K80, F2- N120P90K90, F3- N140P100K100 and five genotypes (V1- BRG-13, V2- BRG-14, V3- BRG-1, V4- G1, V5- G- 323). Parameters like soil pH, electrical conductivity, oxidisable organic carbon, available nitrogen (N), Phosphorus (P), Potassium (K), and sulphur were recorded. Maximum NPK found in third level of fertilizer in BRG-13 and minimum NPK found in first level of fertilizer in G1.','Garlic, genotypes, nitrogen, phosphorus, electrical conductivity','This study shows that application of fertilizers is compulsory to improve the production and productivity of garlic in the study area since almost all parameters of garlic were significantly influenced by NPK fertilizer rates. According to this study most of parameters were significantly highest at BRG-13 genotypes. Due to the application of third level of fertilizer (N140P100K100) almost all the parameter was significantly affected. Therefore, based on this study, it could be recommended that the application of nitrogen 140kg ha-1, phosphorus 100 kg ha-1 and potassium 100kg ha-1 could be recommended for garlic production.','-','Manisha Kumari, Pintu Kumar, Saurabh Raj, Pravin Kumar, Deepak Kumar, Sangeeta Shree and Vijay Kumar Singh (2023). Response of NPK fertilizer on enhancing the soil properties of Garlic (Allium sativum L.) field. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 15(10): 1647-1651.'),(8050,'169','Genetics of Seed Colour and Pod Colour in Greengram (Vigna radiata L. Wilczek)','Dhare S. L., Patil D. K. and Gite V. K. ','Genetics-of--Seed-Colour-and-Pod-Colour-in-Greengram-(Vigna-radiata-L.-Wilczek).-Dhare-SL-63.pdf','',1,'An investigation was worked out at experimental Research Farm of Agricultural Research Station, Badnapur during Kharif, 2022 to study the genetic pattern of seed coat colour and pod colour and their joint segregation pattern in F1, F2, BC1 and BC2 of two crosses among three parents which differed for these traits. The seed colour determines the seed quality as well as market value. The analysis for inheritance studies for crosses having green x yellow seedcoat and black x yellow pod parental combination showed green seedcoat, black pod colour dominant over yellow seedcoat and yellow pod respectively. The joint segregation test for seedcoat colour and pod colour in F2 and backcrosses revealed independent segregation to each trait and may advances to use as morphological markers individually for different genetic studies as well as to estimate rate outcrossing in greengram. The seedcoat colour and pod colour exhibited monogenic control which can be further used to exploit in mungbean improvement programme.','Mungbean, inheritance, seedcoat colour, monogenic, dominance, joint segregation','In conclusion the seedcoat and pod colour in cross BM 4 x BM 2019-12 and Kopergaon x BM 2019-12 was found under control of dominant gene with monogenic gene action. The monogenic control of these traits can be used to exploit in mungbean improvement programme.','-','Dhare S. L., Patil D. K. and Gite V. K. (2023). Genetics of Seed Colour and Pod Colour in Greengram (Vigna radiata L. Wilczek). Biological Forum – An International Journal, 15(11): 361-365.'),(8051,'169','Influence of Growth Stimulants on Growth and Yield of Bird’s Eye Chilli (Capsicum frutescens L.)','Anand Rathod, Bhoomika, H. R., Sanjeevraddi G. Reddi and Yogeshkumar B.','Influence-of-Growth-Stimulants-on-Growth-and-Yield-of-Bird’s-Eye-Chilli-(Capsicum-frutescens-L.)-Anand-Rathod-64.pdf','',1,'Bird’s eye chilli (Capsicum frutescens L.) is considered as one of the emerging spice crop, having various health benefits and very high demand in national and international markets. So, as no much work on systemic cultivation of the crop is done the present investigation was planned to study the response of the crop to different growth stimulants. An investigation was conducted at College of Horticulture, Mudigere during the year 2022-23 to study the effect of plant growth stimulants on growth and yield of bird’s eye chilli. The statistical design adopted is Randomized Complete Block Design with thirteen treatments. Among the different treatments, foliar application of GA3 @ 75 ppm recorded significantly maximum plant height (83.59 cm) and plant spread (3014.10 cm2). The treatment T12 (Humic acid @ 0.50 %) recorded maximum number of primary branches per plant (12), fruit length (1.72 cm), fruit width (5.97 mm), single fruit weight (0.67 g), fresh yield per plant (244.93 g) and dry yield per plant (93.30 g). The results revealed that foliar application of humic acid @ 0.50 per cent at 60, 90 and 120 DAT would help in improving plant growth and yield attributes of bird’s eye chilli.','Bird’s eye chill, GA3, Humic acid, Growth and Yield','The treatment T4 (GA3 @7 5 PPM) recorded significantly superior growth attributes over the other treatments studied. Treatment T12 (Humic acid @ 0.5%) recorded significantly higher yield attributes over all the treatments. Hence, it can be concluded from the study that foliar application of Humic acid @ 0.5% at 60, 90 and 120 DAT will improve plant growth and fruit yield in bird’s eye chilli.','-','Anand Rathod, Bhoomika, H. R., Sanjeevraddi G. Reddi and Yogeshkumar B. (2023). Influence of Growth Stimulants on Growth and Yield of Bird’s Eye Chilli (Capsicum frutescens L.). Biological Forum – An International Journal, 15(11): 366-369.'),(8052,'170','Ootaxonomy of Penenirmus pici Fabricius, 1798 (Insecta: Phthiraptera) infesting Dinopium benghalense (Linnaeus, 1758) (Aves: Picidae)','Aftab Ahmad and Gaurav Sharma','Ootaxonomy-of-Penenirmus-pici-Fabricius-1798-(Insecta-Phthiraptera)-infesting-Dinopium-benghalense-(Linnaeus,-1758)-(Aves-Picidae)-Gaurav-Sharma-6.pdf','',1,'Phthirapteran eggs are highly polymorphic and often exhibits variety of markings/projections/sculpturing. The egg chorion of Dinopium benghalense (Linnaeus, 1758) louse is smooth and ovoid in shape. The egg mouth is covered with a dome-shaped operculum and bears 22-24 typical button-shaped micropyles. The rear end of the egg shell bears a prominent bee hive-like stigma or hydropyle. The present report furnishes the first information on the egg shell morphology of an ischnoceran louse, Penenirmus pici Fabricius, 1798, parasitizing Dinopium benghalense (Linnaeus, 1758) through the scanning electron microscopy.','Penenirmus pici, Dinopium benghalense, egg chorion, Phthiraptera, Ootaxonomy, SEM','There is no information on the eggshell morphology of any species occurring on Dinopium benghalense (Linnaeus, 1758). Hence the present report furnishes the first information on the nature of eggshell architecture of the ischnoceran louse, Penenirmus pici Fabricius, 1798 infesting bird Black-rumped flameback Dinopium benghalense (Linnaeus, 1758) through SEM.','-','Aftab Ahmad and Gaurav Sharma (2023). Ootaxonomy of Penenirmus pici Fabricius, 1798 (Insecta: Phthiraptera) infesting Dinopium benghalense (Linnaeus, 1758) (Aves: Picidae). Biological Forum – An International Journal, 15(12): 25-28.'),(8053,'169','Evaluation of Tomato Hybrids for Growth, Yield and Quality Attributes under the Climatic Conditions of Kerala','Remzeena A., P. Anitha, Pradeepkumar T., Aswini A., Beena V.I. and Anoop E.V. ','Evaluation-of-Tomato-Hybrids-for-Growth,-Yield-and-Quality-Attributes-under-the-Climatic-Conditions-of-Kerala-Remzeena-A-65.pdf','',1,'Commercial cultivation of tomatoes in Kerala is very limited due to the prevailing tropical humid climatic conditions and acidic soil, which make it a hotspot for various biotic and abiotic stresses. Tomato production in the state can be improved by identifying and promoting the hybrids tailored to thrive in these challenging conditions. So, the present study was undertaken to identify F1 hybrids of tomato suitable for growing in Kerala. Ten F1 hybrids of tomato collected from various research institutes, SAUs and private companies were evaluated for their yield and quality to find the suitability of growing them in climatic conditions of Kerala. The experiment was laid out in CRD with four replications. Observations were taken from five plants in each replication. Hybrids were evaluated for growth, yield and quality traits. The results revealed significant variation among the hybrids for all the traits studied. Plant height was highest in the hybrid Arka Apeksha. days to flowering and days to harvest was minimum in Lakshmi which was on par with Sampurna and COTH3. Highest fruit shape index and pericarp thickness was recorded in Arka Apeksha. Average fruit weight was highest in Arka Abhed. Number of fruits/plant was highest in Sampurna. Fruit yield/plant was highest in Lakshmi which was on par with Arka Rakshak, Arka Samrat, Arka Abhed and Arka Apeksha. Longest crop duration was recorded in Arka Abhed, Arka Apeksha, Arka Samrat which was on par with Arka Rakshak, Sampurna and Lakshmi. Arka Apeksha was superior to other hybrids for quality traits such as TSS, vitamin C and lycopene. Whereas titrable acidity was highest in Sampurna and highest total phenol content was recorded in COTH3. Based on the overall performance of the hybrids for yield and yield contributing traits hybrids Lakshmi, Arka Samrat and Arka Abhed was found best performing among the ten hybrids evaluated. These hybrids are well adapted for growing in Kerala\'s climatic conditions, and popularizing them among farmers will aid in enhancing the state\'s tomato production.','Tomato, Solanum lycopersicum, hybrid, yield, quality.','From the present study it can be concluded that among the evaluated ten hybrids Lakshmi (Fig. 1) Arka Samrat, (Fig. 2) and Arka Abhed (Fig. 3), performed better for yield and yield contributing traits and Arka Apeksha was superior to other hybrids for quality traits. Based on the overall performance of the hybrids Lakshmi, Arka Samrat and Arka Abhed is suitable for cultivation in the tropical humid climatic conditions of Kerala. These hybrids also recorded low incidence of Tomato leaf curl virus.','-','Remzeena A., P. Anitha, Pradeepkumar T., Aswini A., Beena V.I. and Anoop E.V. (2023). Evaluation of Tomato Hybrids for Growth, Yield and Quality Attributes under the Climatic Conditions of Kerala. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 15(11): 370-375.'),(8054,'170','Independent and Combined Effects of Waterlogging and Salinity on Morpho-Physiological Parameters in Pigeonpea Genotypes at Early Growth Stages','Uday Pratap Singh, J. P. Srivastava, Pravin Prakash and Krishna Kumar ','Independent-and-Combined-Effects-of-Waterlogging-and-Salinity-on-Morpho-Physiological-Parameters-in-Pigeonpea-Genotypes-at-Early-Growth-Stages-Uday-Pratap-Singh-7.pdf','',1,'Occurrence of combined salinity and waterlogging stress is increasing throughout the world. According to the FAO, about 60-80 million hectares of land are affected to some extent by combined waterlogging and salinity stress. Waterlogging and salinity impair and effects the growth and development of pigoen pea, and reduces its productivity significantly. When water and salt exceed their optimum levels, it leads to waterlogging and salinity stress, respectively. The combination of waterlogging and salinity exacerbates the effects of salinity and vice versa. In this study, we examined the impact of waterlogging (W), salinity (S), and their combination (W+S) on plant survival percentage, shoot dry weight, total plant biomass, and total chlorophyll content in pigeonpea. The pot experiment was conducted during the rainy season of 2018-19, involving three genotypes (Bahar, UPAS-120 and Asha). Stress was imposed 40 days after sowing, and observations were taken at 6th and 10th day after the imposition of stress. Waterlogging + salinity was found to be more deleterious to plants, although the effect was less pronounced with salinity (30 mM NaCl) treatment alone. In terms of survival percentage, shoot dry weight, total plant biomass, and total chlorophyll content, the Bahar genotype demonstrated relatively higher tolerance compared to other genotypes in all treatments (waterlogging, salinity, and salinity + waterlogging). The order of performance among genotypes was found to be Bahar, UPAS-120, and Asha. These findings can contribute to the development of stress-tolerant pigeonpea genotypes or selection of a relatively tolerant genotype aimed at mitigating the negative effects of waterlogging and salinity stresses on crop productivity.','Pigeonpea, Salinity, Waterlogging, Plant biomass, Chlorophyll content','In conclusion, the study investigated the effects of waterlogging, salinity, and their combination on morpho-physiological parameter revealed that the genotypes exhibited varying degrees of tolerance to the imposed stresses. Survival percentages under combined waterlogging (W)+ Salinity(S) was more deleterious to pigeonpea compared to individual stresses. With respect to morphological parameters, plant height, shoot dry weight and total plant biomass were reduced under stress conditions compared to the control. The combined stress of salinity and waterlogging had the most detrimental effect on plant height, shoot dry weight and total plant biomass. Further, total chlorophyll content, was also significantly reduced under stress conditions compared to control. Among individual stress given alone, waterlogging stress was found to be more detrimental as compared to 30 mM NaCl salinity for recorded observations. Overall, Bahar genotype showed comparatively higher level of tolerance under the stress conditions, followed by UPAS-120 and Asha respectively. The findings can contribute to the development of stress-tolerant pigeonpea varieties and to select appropriate genotypes aimed at mitigating the negative effects of these stresses on crop productivity. ','-','Uday Pratap Singh, J. P. Srivastava, Pravin Prakash and Krishna Kumar (2023). Independent and Combined Effects of Waterlogging and Salinity on Morpho-Physiological Parameters in Pigeonpea Genotypes at Early Growth Stages. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 15(12): 29-33.'),(8055,'169','Foliar Nutrition as Influence on Growth and Yield of Kharif Cowpea ','B. J. Chaudhary, P. P. Chaudhari, R. M. Parikh, N. M. Chaudhary and D. M. Patel ','Foliar-Nutrition-as-Influence-on-Growth-and-Yield-of-Kharif-Cowpea--BJ-Chaudhary-67.pdf','',1,'A field experiment was conducted at Agronomy Instructional Farm, C. P. College of Agriculture, to study the “Foliar nutrition as influence on growth and yield of kharif cowpea” during kharif season of 2020 with eight treatment combinations in RBD with four replications. Cowpea variety Gujarat cowpea 5 was sown at a distance of 45 cm × 10 cm. Elucidating the specific effects of foliar nutrient applications on growth and yield, the study provides valuable insights for optimizing farming practices and enhancing crop productivity. Various growth parameters of cowpea like plant height, number of branches/plant, dry matter accumulation and yield attributing characters viz., number of pods/plant, pod length, number of seeds/pod and seed yield (1422 kg/ha), stover yield (2553 kg/ha), net realization of Rs.71,373/ha and benefit: cost Ratio 3.15 of cowpea recorded significantly maximum with the application of 75% of RDF + 2% spray of each urea and urea phosphate at 15 and 30 DAS as compared to other treatments except application of 75% of RDF + 2% spray of NPK 19:19:19 at 15 and 30 DAS. Significantly lower value of said growth and yield attributes are recorded with control.','Foliar spray, Cowpea, Growth attributes, Yield and Economics','Based on the results obtained from the present investigation, it is concluded that kharif cowpea crop should be fertilized with 75% of RDF (15:30 kg N: P2O5/ha) and 2% spray of either urea and urea phosphate or NPK 19:19:19 at 15 and 30 DAS to obtain higher growth, yield and monetary returns in loamy sand. The findings could guide farmers in adopting more efficient and sustainable nutrient management strategies, ultimately contributing to food security and agricultural sustainability in Kharif cowpea cultivation.','-','B. J. Chaudhary, P. P. Chaudhari, R. M. Parikh, N. M. Chaudhary and D. M. Patel (2023). Foliar Nutrition as Influence on Growth and Yield of Kharif Cowpea. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 15(11): 376-380.'),(8056,'169','Growth Performance of Broiler Fed Diet Containing Ashwagandha (Withania somnifera) Root Powder','Pallavi Mali, V.S. Lawar, D.K. Deokar, S.B. Adangale, D.K. Kamble and P.S. Sakhare','Growth-Performance-of-Broiler-Fed-Diet-Containing-Ashwagandha-(Withania-somnifera)-Root-Powder-Pallavi-Mali-67.pdf','',1,'Since usage of antibiotics is forbidden owing to their residual effects and also development of resistance strains, a number of scientists have been considering the development of a novel class of feed additives derived from medicinal herbs. These feed additives possessing antibiotic, antistress general tonic and immunostimulatory qualities Therefore, present research trail was undertaken in a completely randomized design to study the effect of ashwagandha root powder on growth performance of broiler chicken. A total of 120-day-old chicks were randomly assigned into four dietary treatments with 30 birds in each. The treatments were: T0 as control fed with basal diet without supplementation of ashwagandha root powder and T1, T2 and T3 fed basal diet with 0.5, 1.0 and 1.5% ashwagandha root powder, respectively. The data on body weight and feed consumption were recorded weekly, from which gain in body weight and feed conversion ratio were calculated. The results showed thatsignificantly (P<0.05) higher body weight and weekly weight gain were in T2 (1.0 % Ashwagandha root powder) treatment groupalong with better feed efficiency. The treatment T2 (1.00% ashwagandha root powder) had superior feed conversion ratio than the other treatment groups. It can be concluded that supplementation of 1% Ashwagandha root powder is beneficial for better feed efficiency and growth of broilers.','Body weight gain, FCR, Broiler, Feeding, Ashwagandha','From the findings of study, it is concluded that inclusion of 1.0 per cent of ashwagandha root powder in diet of broiler is beneficial in improving the body weight, weight gain, feed consumption and also have better feed conversion ratio.','-','Pallavi Mali, V.S. Lawar, D.K. Deokar, S.B. Adangale, D.K. Kamble and P.S. Sakhare (2023). Growth Performance of Broiler Fed Diet Containing Ashwagandha (Withania somnifera) Root Powder. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 15(11): 381-385.'),(8057,'150','Impact of Lentil Seed (Lens culinaris) fortified Mulberry Leaves on Silk Productivity of Bombyx mori L.','Tajamul Islam, Jasmeena Qadir and Ifat Bashir','Impact-of-Lentil-Seed-(Lens-culinaris)-fortified-Mulberry-Leaves-on-Silk-Productivity-of-Bombyx-mori-L.-Tajamul-Islam-132.pdf','',1,'The demand for the silk is increasing day by day and the current production of raw silk is not able to meet the required demands. In order to boost the raw silk production a lot of research is being conducted. Fortification of mulberry leaves with essential nutrients such as amino acids is latest trend. In this study, mulberry leaves were fortified with different concentrations of lentil (Lens culnaris) viz., 2mg/ml, 4mg/ml, 6mg/ml, 8mg/ml and 10mg/ml and fed to 5th instar silkworm larvae. The highest weight of ten mature larvae (59.11 g), cocoon weight (2.4g), shell weight (0.52g), shell percentage (21.66%), cocoon yield/10000 larvae by weight (22.12 kg) and filament length (1210.66 m) were recorded in treatment (8mg/ml) in comparison with other treatments and control. The larval weight, cocoon weight, shell weight, shell percentage and filament length showed profound increase upon feeding of 8 mg/ml lentil fortified mulberry leaves which was significantly higher than other treatments and control respectively. The lentil seeds are readily available to farmers, hence, lentil fortified mulberry leaves can be used effectively to enhance the larval and cocoon parameters along with filament length.','Sericulture, fortified mulberry, larvae, cocoon weight, filament length','India being the 2nd largest producer of lentil crop contributing 27% to global production. The feeding of lentil seed fortified mulberry leaves to silkworms significantly increased the larval weight, cocoon weight, shell weight, shell percentage, cocoon yield per 10,000 larvae and filament length. Hence, the fortification of mulberry leaves with lentil seed can play an important role to improve silk production. Also, it is advocated that the intercropping of lentil with mulberry crop can be effective strategy to facilitate additional net income along with enhanced silk production at farming level.','-','Tajamul Islam, Jasmeena Qadir and Ifat Bashir (2023). Impact of Lentil Seed (Lens culinaris) fortified Mulberry Leaves on Silk Productivity of Bombyx mori L.. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 15(3): 851-854.'),(8058,'169','Bioefficacy of Prochloraz 45% EC against Blast Disease in Rice','S. B. Gowdar, Sujay Hurali, Narappa G. and Gurunath Raddy ','Bioefficacy-of-Prochloraz-45-EC-against-Blast-Disease-in-Rice-Gurunath-Raddy-68.pdf','',1,'Rice diseases caused by fungi are considered the main constraint in rice production and cause both qualitative and quantitative losses. Rice blast caused by Pyricularia oryzae is the most severe and widely distributed disease of rice worldwide having significant economic importance, resulting in yield losses of up to 50%. Therefore to know the effect of Prochloraz 45% EC on blast (Pyricularia oryzae) disease of rice crop the experiment was laid out with 6 treatments and replicated four times in RBD design at ARS, Gangavati. The variety BPT-5204 was sown with the spacing of 20 cm x 10 cm in plot size of 5 X 5 m2 with all regular agronomic practices followed as per the standard package of practice of University of Agricultural Sciences, Raichur. The fungicide Prochloraz 45% EC was applied as foliar spray treatment in the replicated plots just after the appearance of blast disease in the main field. The observations were recorded on the basis of scoring of the diseases as per the standard disease rating scale. Among the treatments, Prochloraz 45% EC @ 1250 ml/ha and Prochloraz 45% EC @ 1000 ml/ha were found to be the best treatments as there were 6.35 PDI and 6.56 PDI of leaf blast disease in rice were recorded, respectively as compared to 38.30 PDI of leaf blast disease in untreated control during first season at terminal observation. Similarly, during second season Prochloraz 45% EC @ 1250 ml/ha recorded 6.50 PDI which was on par with Prochloraz 45% EC @ 1000 ml/ha (6.83 PDI) and found superior than rest of the treatments at terminal observation. Maximum PDI i.e. 39.03 was recorded under untreated control condition. Prochloraz 45% EC @ 1250 ml/ha and Prochloraz 45% EC @ 1000 ml/ha were again recorded its superiority during all the observation days. The highest paddy yield was obtained from the treatment with Prochloraz 45% EC @ 1250 ml/ha i.e. 48.86 q/ha and 49.60 q/ha during first and second season, respectively. Minimum paddy yield i.e. 34.41 q/ha and 35.90 q/ha were recorded on untreated control treatment during first and second season, respectively. ','Blast, Disease, Paddy, Prochloraz 45% EC and Yield','The foliar application of Prochloraz 45% EC @ 1000-1250 ml/ha were effective in control of blast disease incidence during both the seasons tested and resulting higher yield of rice. Prochloraz 45% EC @ 1000 ml/ha and Prochloraz 45% EC @ 1250 ml/ha were found on par at all the observation days during both the seasons. There was no any phyto-toxicity symptoms were noticed at recommended as well as higher doses of Prochloraz 45% EC. Hence, considering the efficacy and economics of fungicide use it can be concluded that Prochloraz 45% EC @ 1000 ml/ha is effective in managing the blast diseases of rice without any harmful effect on crop. ','-','S. B. Gowdar, Sujay Hurali, Narappa G. and Gurunath Raddy (2023). Bioefficacy of Prochloraz 45% EC against Blast Disease in Rice. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 15(11): 386-389.'),(8059,'169','Field Phenotyping of Rice Genotypes for Heat Stress Tolerance based on Morpho-physiological Parameters at Reproductive Stage ','V. Nandhini, Akshay S. Sakhare, Ch. Aruna Kumari, D. Sanjeeva Rao and J. Aravind Kumar ','Field-Phenotyping-of-Rice-Genotypes-for-Heat-Stress-Tolerance-based-on-Morpho-physiological-Parameters-at-Reproductive-Stage--Akshay-S-Sakhare-69.pdf','',1,'Global warming poses a severe threat to agricultural ecosystems worldwide. Rice is staple food for almost half of world population. Heat stress is harmful for rice crop at reproductive stage. Under such scenario, for maintaining rice productivity and further enhancing it, it is necessary to study the morpho-physiological aspects of the heat stress tolerance in rice at reproductive stage. 22 rice genotypes were phenotyped on the basis morpho-physiological traits in field for heat stress tolerance. Exposure to heat stress at reproductive stage resulted in reduction in the number of productive tillers, number of filled grains and unfilled grains, panicle length, MSI, total dry matter and harvest index and increase in number of unfilled grains. However, some of the genotypes such as Rasi, RNR15048, KNM 1638 has performed on par with the control under heat stress. Hence, these genotypes can be considered as heat stress tolerant genotypes. ','Heat Stress, Rice, Abiotic stress, Physiology, Reproductive stage','Heat stress in rice genotypes negatively impact the MSI, number of productive tillers, number of filled grains, panicle length, total dry matter and HI but positively increased the number of unfilled grains. Based on six traits as mentioned above, the genotypes Rasi, RNR15048, KNM1638, Gaja-Baru and Bakal performed at par with their control counterparts under heat stress. N22 a heat tolerant check also performed on par with its control. Therefore, these genotypes can be considered as heat stress tolerant genotypes. In response to heat, the genotypes Moshi, Maha-Chai and BPT5204 have shown reduction in the above mentioned parameters, which is similar to Vandana, a heat sensitive donor and therefore these genotypes can be considered susceptible to heat stress. Thus, it can be concluded from this study that heat stress causes a negative influence during the reproductive stage, morpho-physiological traits can be used to screen genotypes for heat stress tolerance studies. Further research is needed to confirm the findings of this experiment.','-','V. Nandhini, Akshay S. Sakhare, Ch. Aruna Kumari, D. Sanjeeva Rao and J. Aravind Kumar (2023). Field Phenotyping of Rice Genotypes for Heat Stress Tolerance based on Morpho-physiological Parameters at Reproductive Stage. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 15(11): 390-397.'),(8060,'168','Relationship Between Profile of the Inland Fish Farmers and their Ability in Coordinating Activities','Patel P.H., Patel J.K. and Rathava S.G.','Relationship-Between-Profile-of-the-Inland-Fish-Farmers-and-their-Ability-in-Coordinating-Activities-PH-PATEL-301.pdf','',1,'The study was carried out in Anand district of Gujarat state with 150 randomly selected inland fish farmers. A pre-tested interview schedule was prepared in light of the objectives and respondents were interviewed either at their home or work place. Ex-post facto research design was used. For measurement of variables included in study, different scales and scoring techniques were used. The result designated that amongst the fifteen selected variables of the of inland fish farmers in the study annual income, participation in training, exposure to agricultural mass media, risk orientation, achievement motivation, scientific orientation, innovation proneness and self confidence had establish positive and significant relationship with the ability in coordinating activities of inland fish farmers, whereas education and social participation had establish negative and significant relationship with the ability in coordinating activities of inland fish farmers and age, caste, contact with extension agency, pond size and economic motivation failed to show any significant influence on the ability in coordinating activities of inland fish farmers.','Relationship, fish farmers, ability in coordinating activities, Inland fish farming, managerial efficiency','Among the selected personal, socio-economic, communicational, situational and psychological variables; annual income, participation in training, exposure to agricultural mass media, risk orientation, achievement motivation, scientific orientation, innovation proneness and self confidence had establish positive and significant relationship with the ability in coordinating activities of inland fish farmers, whereas education and social participation had establish negative and significant relationship with the ability in coordinating activities of inland fish farmers and age, caste, contact with extension agency, pond size and economic motivation failed to show any significant influence on the ability in coordinating activities of inland fish farmers.','-','Patel P.H., Patel J.K. and Rathava S.G. (2023). Relationship Between Profile of the Inland Fish Farmers and their Ability in Coordinating Activities. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 15(10): 1652-1656.'),(8061,'169','Correlation Between Independent Variables of Inland Fish Farmers and their Information Seeking Ability ','Patel P.H., Patel J.K. and Mashaliya K.M.','Correlation-Between-Independent-Variables-of-Inland-Fish-Farmers-and-their-Information-Seeking-Ability-PH-PATEL-70.pdf','',1,'The study was carried out in Anand district of Gujarat state with 150 randomly selected inland fish farmers. A pre-tested interview schedule was prepared in light of the objectives and respondents were interviewed either at their home or work place. Ex-post facto research design was used. For measurement of variables included in study, different scales and scoring techniques were used. The result designated that amongst the fifteen selected variables of the of inland fish farmers in the study annual income, participation in training, exposure to agricultural mass media, risk orientation, achievement motivation, scientific orientation, innovation proneness and self confidence had establish positive and significant relationship with the information seeking ability of inland fish farmers, whereas education and social participation had establish negative and significant relationship with the information seeking ability of inland fish farmers and age, caste, contact with extension agency, pond size and economic motivation failed to show any significant influence on the information seeking ability of inland fish farmers.','Relationship, fish farmers, information seeking ability, Inland fish farming, managerial efficiency, annual income and risk orientation','Among the selected personal, socio-economic, communicational, situational and psychological variables; annual income, participation in training, exposure to agricultural mass media, risk orientation, achievement motivation, scientific orientation, innovation proneness and self confidence had establish positive and significant relationship with the information seeking ability of inland fish farmers, whereas education and social participation had establish negative and significant relationship with the information seeking ability of inland fish farmers and age, caste, contact with extension agency, pond size and economic motivation failed to show any significant influence on the information seeking ability of inland fish farmers.','-','Patel P.H., Patel J.K. and Mashaliya K.M. (2023). Correlation Between Independent Variables of Inland Fish Farmers and their Information Seeking Ability. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 15(11): 398-402.'),(8062,'169','Studies on Utilization of Adulsa extract, Basil extract and Mint extract based liquid Jaggery Lozenges','Tejaswini Kashinath Ghongade, Bhanudas Madhukarrao Patil, Pratiksha Chandrakant Kshirsagar, Rajesh Baliram Kshirsagar and Bharat Sidram Agarkar','Studies-on-Utilization-of-Adulsa-extract-Basil-extract-and-Mint-extract-based-liquid-Jaggery-Lozenges-Tejaswini-Ghongade-71.pdf','',1,'The present investigation entitled “Studies on utilization of adulsa extract, basil extract and mint extract based liquid jaggery lozenges” was conducted at Food Engineering department, College of Food Technology, V.N.M.K.V., Parbhani. The treatments were T0 (liquid jaggery without addition of extracts), T1 (liquid jaggery with addition of 1% basil extract, 1% mint extract and 0.1 % adulsa extract), T2 (liquid jaggery with addition of 2% basil extract, 2% mint extract and 0.2 % adulsa extract), T3 (liquid jaggery with addition of 3% basil extract, 3% mint extract and 0.3 % adulsa extract), T4 (liquid jaggery with addition of 4% basil extract, 4% mint extract and 0.4 % adulsa extract).All treatments products prepared and subjected to sensory evaluation, best sample was chosen and further analyze for proximate composition, mineral composition and phytochemicals composition. Increase of extracts content significantly affects the taste, flavour, colour and texture of lozenges. Increase in mint extracts to 4% dominates the basil and adulsa extracts and gives stronger taste and flavour of mint extract. Therefore, T3 was selected and analyzed further. However, T3 had higher phytochemical composition than control sample. Therefore, the presence of phytochemicals makes lozenges rich in therapeutic value and replacing sugar with liquid jaggery is a healthier option.','Liquid jaggery, mint extract, adulsa extract, basil extract, lozenges, phytochemicals','The research study for the development of jaggery lozenges showed to be rich in all nutrients, a source of phytochemicals, and the best substitute for sugar for liquid jaggery. The product achieved good sensory review and was standardized using various combinations. Typically, lozenges are used to treat cough and sore throat. They slowly dissolve in the mouth to stop coughing and provide soothing relief for sore throats. Extracts of basil, mint and adulsa are included because of their high phytochemical qualities and excellent organoleptic capabilities.','-','Tejaswini Kashinath Ghongade, Bhanudas Madhukarrao Patil, Pratiksha Chandrakant Kshirsagar, Rajesh Baliram Kshirsagar and Bharat Sidram Agarkar (2023). Studies on Utilization of Adulsa extract, Basil extract and Mint extract based liquid Jaggery Lozenges. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 15(11): 403-409.'),(8063,'168','Instability and Decomposition Analysis of Apple Crop in Kashmir','Arif Bashir, Imran Khan, Bhagyashree Dhekale, M S Pukhta, Farhat A. Shaheen, A. H. Mughal and Bariz Aijaz Wani','Instability-and-Decomposition-Analysis-of-Apple-Crop-in-Kashmir-Arif-Bashir-302.pdf','',1,'Assessing the trends in variability in agricultural production is crucial for comprehending the shifts in outputs over time. This study investigates the patterns of apple crop production in the Kashmir region, utilizing time-series data spanning from 2001-02 to 2019-20. The study\'s aim is to examine the volatility and breakdown of area, production, and productivity in apple crop cultivation. The results indicate significant instability in crop production in the region, with the greatest instability found in the yield aspect, followed by production and area. The extent of instability fluctuates between two time periods, implying shifts in production patterns. The breakdown analysis identifies shifts in average yield and average area as the primary contributors to variations in overall production. Furthermore, changes in yield variance, area variance, and shifts in average area significantly influence production instability in various districts. Notably, alterations in average area emerge as the dominant factor affecting overall production in the Kashmir division. This research provides valuable insights into the factors affecting production instability and underscores the importance of addressing yield variance, area variance, and changes in average area to improve the stability and productivity of apple crop cultivation in the region.','Instability, Coefficient of variation, Coppock Instability index, Cuddy-Della Valle index, Decomposition Analysis.','This study systematically assessed the instability and decomposition of the Apple crop in the districts of the Kashmir division in UT of Jammu and Kashmir. It aimed to provide valuable insights for policymakers in formulating effective policies to improve the Apple crop in the region. Data was collected from the official website of the Directorate of Horticulture, Kashmir, covering two periods (period-I: 2001-02 to 2009-10, period-II: 2010-11 to 2019-20) and an overall period (2001-02 to 2019-20).\r\nVarious indices, such as the Coefficient of Variation, Cuddy-Della Valle index, and Coppock\'s Instability Index, were employed to calculate district-wise instability in the area, production, and yield of the apple crop. The Hazell decomposition model was utilized to assess the relative contributions of area and yield to the total production. The study revealed that, across different districts in the Kashmir division, the area exhibited lower instability compared to production and yield. Specifically, District Budgam demonstrated the highest instability in yield, followed by production in the same district, and area in District Srinagar. Conversely, District Baramulla displayed the lowest instability in the area, followed by yield in District Pulwama, and production in District Srinagar and District Pulwama. Upon analyzing the zones, it was observed that all three zones exhibited lower instability in the area compared to production and yield. The Central zone had the highest instability in yield, followed by the North zone in production, and the South zone. Notably, the North zone displayed the lowest instability in the area. Overall, the study indicated that yield experienced the highest instability, followed by production, while the area had the lowest instability.\r\nThe district-level decomposition analysis underscored changes in mean yield, mean area, and yield variation as the primary factors contributing to the increase in the average output of the apple crop. Likewise, the analysis conducted at the zone level revealed the dominance of the change in mean yield in all three zones. However, the study places emphasis on the finding that the change in mean area was the dominant factor contributing to the rise in the average output of the apple crop in the Kashmir division.\r\nIn conclusion, this research has yielded valuable insights into the instability and decomposition analysis of the apple crop in the Kashmir division. It has illuminated the factors influencing production and proposed potential areas for improvement in agricultural policies and practices. Such studies play a crucial role in comprehending production fluctuations and provide guidance for scientific planning and the implementation of agricultural development programs. Further investigations into other important crops, including fruit crops, oilseeds, and cereals, at both the state and district levels, are recommended to augment our understanding of agricultural dynamics in the region.\r\n','-','Arif Bashir, Imran Khan, Bhagyashree Dhekale, M S Pukhta, Farhat A. Shaheen, A. H. Mughal and Bariz Aijaz Wani (2023). Instability and Decomposition Analysis of Apple Crop in Kashmir. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 15(10): 1657-1667.'),(8064,'134','Estimating Genetic Parameters in Blackgram (Vigna mungo (L.) Hepper) Inter-Varietal Crosses through Generation Mean Analysis','A.V.S. Durga Prasad and E. Murugan','Estimating-Genetic-Parameters-in-Blackgram-(Vigna-mungo-(L.)-Hepper)-Inter-Varietal-Crosses-through-Generation-Mean-Analysis--A.V.S.-Durga-Prasad--104.pdf','',1,'In two inter-varietal blackgram crosses, the nature and amount of gene action were examined using six-generation means for seed yield and its components. According to the generation mean analysis (GMA) results, more than a basic additive-dominance model was needed. Since scaling tests are statistically significant, an epistatic model should be explored instead. Additionally, the GMA demonstrated that additive, dominance, and epistatic interactions were the determinants of seed yield and its characteristics. Dominance x dominance and duplicate dominant were the most common forms. Therefore, it isn\'t easy to improve these characteristics using simple selection methods because these methods do not work to stabilize superior lines. To overcome this obstacle, the pedigree breeding technique postpones the selection of elite lineages until subsequent generations. Epistatic interactions, on the other hand, call for supplementary approaches. Pedigree breeding with one or two cycles of recurrent selection is a good strategy in this direction. These strategies are beneficial for finding superior lines that have higher seed yields and other related traits.','Generation mean analysis, Scaling tests, Pedigree Breeding, Epistatic interactions, Blackgram','Our extensive investigation into gene activities governing nine crucial attributes associated with yield and its components, as elucidated by the analysis of generation mean, has uncovered a rich tapestry of interactions, including additive, dominance, and epistatic dynamics. The nuanced exploration, inspired by two inter-varietal blackgram crosses, surpasses the confines of a simplistic additive-dominance model. The significance of our findings is underscored by statistically significant scaling tests, urging the adoption of an epistatic model for a comprehensive understanding of the genetic architecture. The Generation Mean Analysis (GMA) provides a comprehensive insight into the determinants of seed yield and its characteristics, with dominance × dominance and duplicate dominant interactions emerging as predominant forms. This highlights the intricate nature of gene actions influencing the phenotypic outcomes. However, the complexity is further compounded by the limitations of basic selection methods, which fall short in effectively amplifying certain traits. In response to these challenges, our study advocates for the strategic implementation of the pedigree breeding method. By deferring the selection of elite lineages to subsequent generations, this approach aims to enhance overall breeding efficacy. This becomes particularly crucial in stabilizing superior lines, a feat unattainable through simple selection methods alone. The recognition of the intricate role played by epistatic interactions necessitates additional measures, leading us to propose the integration of pedigree breeding with one or two cycles of recurrent selection. This integrated breeding strategy not only proves desirable but also successful in addressing the complexities posed by gene interactions. By strategically postponing elite lineage selection and incorporating recurrent selection, the approach optimally navigates the challenges presented by additive, dominance, and epistatic interactions. Consequently, it emerges as a robust methodology for identifying superior lines with elevated seed yields and positive yield components.','-','A.V.S. Durga Prasad and E. Murugan (2022). Estimating Genetic Parameters in Blackgram (Vigna mungo (L.) Hepper) Inter-Varietal Crosses through Generation Mean Analysis. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 14(2a): 623-627.'),(8065,'169','Effect of Polyhalite Multinutrient fertilizer and Drip Irrigation under different ETc Levels on Growth, Quality of Bt. cotton in Inceptisol','Utkarsha Viju Amolic, Ritu S. Thakare, V. S. Patil, B.D. Bhakare and B.M. Kamble ','Effect-of--Polyhalite-Multinutrient-fertilizer-and-Drip-Irrigation-under-different-ETc-Levels-on-Growth,-Quality-of-Bt.-cotton-in-Inceptisol-Utkarsha-Viju-Amolic-72.pdf','',1,'Increasing complexity in crop nutrient requirement in intensive crop production system needs alternative multi-nutrient sources. The field investigation entitled, “Effect of Polyhalite multinutrient fertilizer and drip irrigation at different ETc levels on growth, quality and water use efficiency of Bt. cotton in Inceptisol” conducted during the years 2020 and 2021 at AICRP on Irrigation Water Management Farm, Mahatma Phule Krishi Vidyapeeth, Rahuri, Dist. Ahmednagar (Maharashtra).The present investigation was laid out in Split plot design with three replications. Total fifty four treatment combinations comprising three irrigation regimes as main plot treatment viz., I1-0.8 ETc, I2-1.0 ETc and I3-1.2 ETc and six fertilizer doses as sub plot treatments. viz., T1- Absolute control, T2 - 100% GRDF (125:65:65 N: P2O5: K2O kg ha-1), Mg, S as per recommendation, T3- 100 % N: P2O5 + 100% K2O through polyhalite, T4-100 % N: P2O5: 25 % K2O through muriate of potash + 75% K2O through polyhalite, T5- 100 % N: P2O5: 50 % K2O through muriate of potash + 50 % K2O through polyhalite, T6- 100 % N: P2O5: 75 % K2O through muriate of potash + 25% K2O through polyhalite. The data revealed that scheduling of irrigation at I2-1.0 ETc irrigation regime registered significantly higher growth attributing characters of Bt. cotton viz., plant height (147.36 cm), number of sympodial branches plant-1(21.67), leaf area plant-1 (282.16 dm2), Number of bolls plant-1 (34.53) is at par with 0.8 ETc irrigation regime than rest of irrigation methods at harvest during pooled mean of two years. While in case of fertilizer treatment F4-100% N: P2O5: 25% K2O through MOP + 75% K2O through Polyhalite showed highest plant height (146.30 cm), number of monopodial branches plant-1 (1.41) number of sympodial branches plant-1 (20.33), leaf area plant-1 (280.16), Number of bolls plant-1 (28.94). Other quality traits, viz., ginning percentage, upper half mean length, uniformity index and micronaire ratio were not influenced by the both irrigation regimes and fertilizer treatments. Study concluded that polyhalite shows potential as a commercial fertilizer to supply K, Ca, Mg, and S nutrients. However, the availability of polyhalite will remain a challage and its location and crop specific response needs to be studied for its advocation as a complete K nutrient source for soil.','Polyhalite, cotton, Drip irrigation, quality','Irrigation regimes with scheduling of deficit irrigation at 0.8 ETc is significant among other irrigation levels with 20 percentage of saving cost coupled with application of 100% N: P2O5: 25% K2O through MOP + 75% K2O through polyhalite recorded significantly highest growth contributing characters. The quality parameters viz. ginning percentage, 2.5 % span length, uniformity ratio, micronaire value, elongation and bundle strength were not influenced significantly due to different irrigation regimes and fertilizer treatments during both the years. overall, this research contributes to sustainable agriculture practices, a balanced and prolonged supply of a nutrients with polyhalite to crop in sustained manner can be maintained.','-','Utkarsha Viju Amolic, Ritu S. Thakare, V. S. Patil, B.D. Bhakare and B.M. Kamble (2023). Effect of Polyhalite Multinutrient fertilizer and Drip Irrigation under different ETc Levels on Growth, Quality of Bt. cotton in Inceptisol. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 15(11): 410-415.'),(8066,'169','Documentation of Antiobesogenic Plants used by Bodo Community of Assam, India','Jwngsar Baro, Mamoni Das, Deeptimayee Mahapatra, Manisha Choudhury, Soumitra Goswami, Jadav Sarma, Arijit Shome, N.Kapaini Basena, Priyanka Bhattacharyya and Amita Beniwal ','Documentation-of-Antiobesogenic-Plants-used-by-Bodo-Community-of-Assam-India-Jwngsar-Baro-73.pdf','',1,'Ethno-botanical survey was conducted during the month of October to December 2021 in 6 villages (Bhalabari, Simlibari, Khoirabari, Banseria, Angrajuli and Bagchai chuburi) of Udalguri district of BTR for a better understanding of local beliefs, habits and culinary practices regarding the use of medicinal plants for treatment of obesity. During the ethno-medicinal survey period the well known medicinal practitioners called as “Buwidw” were contacted and appraised regarding the purpose of the study and other ethno-medicinal information were gathered. Local healers or buwidw were interviewed using structured questionnaire. Owing to their prior experiences being exploited by business associates of pharmaceutical and drug companies, some respondents were occasionally reluctant to impart their knowledge of medicinal plants and less receptive to being the focus of outsiders\' and visitors\' investigations. Altogether 12 local healers or buwidw were interviewed from the randomly selected villages. From the survey, 15 medicinal plants were collected that are mainly used for treatmentof obesity. Out of these 15 plants most cited plants were found to be Alstonia scholaris (L.) R.Br. (Apocynaceae) and Syzygium cumini (L.) Skeels (Myrtaceae). This explorative survey underscores the importance of preserving and documentation of indigenous plants for further scientific investigations.','Antiobesogenic, Bodo tribe, Obesity, Documentation, GC-MS, Phytochemical','In rural regions like BTR where the Bodo tribe makes up the majority of the population, local traditional knowledge and plant-based medicine are still widely practiced, and traditional healers are crucial to primary healthcare. Large sections of this tribe are economically under-developed and they have traditional believes and knowledge in plants and forests. A wide variety of traditional plants are being used among Bodo tribe for the treatment of mild to severe type of health issues or ailments since time immemorial. Obesity has become a serious global health concern since it is associated with major life threatening diseases. It has increased swiftly across all the age group making it serious concern. In fact it is slowly increasing among the tribal population due to radical change in their dietary habit towards HFSS food products. Introducing pharmacological intervention has become very important to combat obesity. Use of medicinal plants which have been consumed for hundred years becomes very important because of their minimal or no side effects. Thus, emphasis on natural products is increasing currently because of their complete absence of side effects. The information acquired from this study could help to identify plant species and extraction techniques for the development of herbal medications to combat obesity and its associated disorders. Most frequently used plants with highest use value for treatment of obesity, as reported in our study such as Alstonia scholaris (L.) R.Br. (Apocynaceae) and Syzygium cumini (L.) Skeels (Myrtaceae) should be given importance for fruther in vivo studies. Moreover, in our study, the GC-MS analysis has confirmed the presence of antiobesogenic bioactive compounds in the methanolic extract of the two plants species.','-','Jwngsar Baro, Mamoni Das, Deeptimayee Mahapatra, Manisha Choudhury, Soumitra Goswami, Jadav Sarma, Arijit Shome, N.Kapaini Basena, Priyanka Bhattacharyya and Amita Beniwal (2023). Documentation of Antiobesogenic Plants used by Bodo Community of Assam, India. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 15(11): 416-428.'),(8067,'169','Effect of Modified Atmosphere Packaging on Microbial, Biochemical, Sensory properties and Shelf-life of Reef Cod (Epinephelus diacanthus) fillet during chilled Storage','A.M. Parmar and R.B. Vala','Effect-of-Modified-Atmosphere-Packaging-on-Microbial,-Biochemical,-Sensory-properties-and-Shelf-life-of-Reef-Cod-(Epinephelus-diacanthus)-fillet-during-chilled-Storage-Anirudhsinh-Parmar-74.pdf','',1,'The objective of this study is to assess stability of chilling in combination with MAP to extend the selflife of chilled reef cod (E. diacanthus) fillet with minimum loss in quality. The assessment of fillet quality encompassed evaluation based on microbial, biochemical, and sensory attributes. The fresh reef cod fillets were packed under two conditions: T0 (Control: Air) and T1 (MAP: 40% CO2 + 30% O2 + 30% N2) and stored at 4°C. Values of TVB-N, TMA-N, FFA, PV, and TBA, indicative of deterioration, increased throughout the chilled storage period. Biochemical values were relatively higher in reef cod fillets stored in air packs than in those stored using MAP. The Total Plate Count (TPC) exhibited higher final numbers in control (T0) sample compared to those in T1. E. coli and S. aureus were not detected in any of the samples. Sensory analysis (Texture, Color, Appearance, Odor, Overall quality) correlated well with the biochemical and microbiological analyses, indicating a shelf life of approximately 6 days for the control and 18 days for T1. In comparison between the treatments, MAP proved more effective in inhibiting biochemical, microbial, and sensory spoilage processes, extending the self life up to 18 days compared to T0. Overall, modified atmosphere packaging (MAP) showed a synergistic effect in extending shelf life as well as maintaining the quality of reef cod fillets under chilled storage.','Reef cod Fillet, modified atmosphere packaging, Chilled storage, Physicochemical property, self-life',' In this present study biochemical, microbial and sensory property and self life of reef cod fillet in air and MAP with (40% CO2 + 30% O2 + 30% N2) ware evaluated during chilled storage. The result showed that MAP could effective slow down the increase of TMA-N, TVB-N, FFA PV, TBA value. Based on microbial and sensory analysis the use of MAP (T1) extends the self-life of reef cod filler up to 18 days against 6 days of air packed (T0). Thus, it is evident that MAP of reef cod fillet is preferred over air packed in terms of longer self-life. MAP will be advantages to retail consumer for storage the reef cod fillets for further processing and cooking.','-','A.M. Parmar and R.B. Vala (2023). Effect of Modified Atmosphere Packaging on Microbial, Biochemical, Sensory properties and Shelf-life of Reef Cod (Epinephelus diacanthus) fillet during chilled Storage. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 15(11): 429-435.'),(8068,'169','Effect of Foliar Application of Salicylic acid (SA) along with Micronutrients (Boron & Zinc) on Growth and Yield of Parthenocarpic Cucumber (Cucumis sativus L.)','Akshata, Shalini M., Vasanthi B.G. and Mallikarjuna Gowda A.P. ','Effect-of-Foliar-Application-of-Salicylic-acid-(SA)-along-with-Micronutrients-(Boron-&-Zinc)-on-Growth-and-Yield-of-Parthenocarpic-Cucumber-(Cucumis-sativus-L.)-Akshata-75.pdf','',1,'Cucumber (Cucumis sativus L.) holds significant economic and nutritional importance. To augment its growth and yield, nutrients play a very vital role. The experiment encompassed the application of two different concentrations of SA, specifically 200 mg kg-1 and 400 mg kg-1, alongside zinc at 25 mg kg-1 and boron at 50 mg kg-1. The combination of SA at 400 mg kg-1 with boron at 50 mg kg-1 and zinc at 25 mg kg-1 demonstrated noteworthy results with respect to growth parameters namely, vine length (333.33 cm), node count of 45.46, and leaf area measuring 565.149 cm², at 60 days after sowing. Additionally, this combination yielded the highest fruit yield per vine (4.37 kg) and an overall total yield of 136.78 t ha-1, suggesting potential synergistic effects. The study faced challenges in optimizing the nutrient application for enhanced cucumber growth and yield. Despite the complexities, the strategic combination of salicylic acid, boron and zinc showcased remarkable improvements. The response to foliar application of SA at 400 mg kg-1 with boron at 50 mg kg-1 and zinc at 25 mg kg-1 exhibited significant variations among treatments, offering promising avenues for the advancement of cucumber cultivation.','Boron, Foliar spray, Parthenocarpic cucumber, Salicylic acid, Zinc','The continual availability of salicylic acid, boron and zinc to the crop has influenced the growth and performance of the crop due to the effect of salicylic acid, which plays a crucial role in raising the levels of plant hormones auxins and cytokinins that might have aided in vegetative growth and yield of the crop. Boron plays a role in the growth and development of new cells at the meristematic region which may have influenced the growth of vine. Zinc applied as a foliar spray has improved the availability and uptake of mineral nutrients in the root region of the plant and that might have had an impact on the growth and development of the plant. The observed outcomes consistently highlight the positive effects of treatment T8 [SA2 (400 mg kg-1) + B (50 mg kg-1) + Zn (25 mg kg-1)] on various facets of crop development. Enhanced growth parameters, increased yield, and improved quality metrics collectively contribute to positioning T8 as a valuable component in the optimization of cucumber crop production.','-','Akshata, Shalini M., Vasanthi B.G. and Mallikarjuna Gowda A.P. (2023). Effect of Foliar Application of Salicylic acid (SA) along with Micronutrients (Boron & Zinc) on Growth and Yield of Parthenocarpic Cucumber (Cucumis sativus L.). Biological Forum – An International Journal, 15(11): 436-442.'),(8069,'169','Economic Impact of Fertigation on Strawberry (Fragaria × ananassa) cv. Camarosa','Aman, Sumit Bura, Prabhdeep Singh, Dilip Singh Kachwaya, Tsering Lanzes and Aastha','Economic-Impact-of-Fertigation-on-Strawberry-(Fragaria-ananassa)-cv.-Camarosa-Aman-76.pdf','',1,'Strawberry (Fragaria × ananassa) is a popular fruit crop globally, with the variety Caramosa gaining significant attention due to its unique flavor and superior characteristics. As the demand for high-quality strawberries increases, growers are constantly seeking innovative techniques to enhance crop productivity, fruit quality, and overall economic profitability. Fertigation, the precise application of fertilizers through irrigation systems, has emerged as a promising practice in modern agriculture. This study aims to assess the economic effects of fertigation on the cultivation of strawberry cv. Caramosa. The study involves a comprehensive analysis of the cost-effectiveness and financial viability of fertigation in comparison to conventional fertilizer application methods. The highest soil pH (7.51) and electrical conductivity (0.349 dSm-1) was recorded in Treatment T2 (120% of the recommended NPK dose through drip irrigation). The highest levels of available nitrogen, phosphorous and potassium in the soil (310.18 kg/ha, 15.33 kg/ha, and 176.08 kg/ha, respectively) was found in T2. Berry plants treated with T3 (100 % of recommended dose of NPK through drip) demonstrated superior performance, producing the maximum number of fruits, yield per plant (170.20 g) and yield per hectare (6.13 t/ha). Economic analysis revealed T3 as the most profitable, with the highest net return (Rs. 11,04,180) and benefit-to-cost ratio (B:C ratio) (2.58), emphasizing the significance of NPK dosage and application method in optimizing soil health, berry yield, and economic outcomes.','Strawberry, Fertigation, NPK, Net return, B:C ratio','This study highlights the positive economic impact of fertigation on the cultivation of strawberry cv. Caramosa. By optimizing nutrient management, fertigation proves to be a viable strategy for strawberry growers, offering higher yields, superior fruit quality and increased profitability. The findings provide valuable insights for farmers, agronomists, and policymakers, encouraging the adoption of fertigation techniques to enhance the economic viability of strawberry production while promoting sustainable agricultural practices. So far as the yield of strawberry fruits are concerned, maximum fruit plant, yield per plant, yield per hectare, highest net profit and B:C ratio also comes from T3 (100 % of recommended dose of NPK through drip).','-','Aman, Sumit Bura, Prabhdeep Singh, Dilip Singh Kachwaya, Tsering Lanzes and Aastha (2023). Economic Impact of Fertigation on Strawberry (Fragaria × ananassa) cv. Camarosa. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 15(11): 443-446.'),(8070,'169','Effect of Replacing Groundnut Cake with Guar Meal on Growth Performance of Osmanabadi Weaned Kids','Minal Tajne, R.A. Patil, D.V. Bainwad,Sumit Gawali and Akanksha Chavan','Effect-of-Replacing-Groundnut-Cake-with-Guar-Meal-on-Growth-Performance-of-Osmanabadi-Weaned-Kids-Minal-Tajne-77.pdf','',1,'The effect of substituting guar meal for groundnut cake on the growth performance of weaned Osmanabadi kids was the subject of the experiment. Twenty kids in all were chosen for the current study and divided into five treatments, each with four kids. The chosen goat kids for the experiment were divided into five groups: T1 (average age of three months and weight of twelve-five kg), T2 (average age of three months and weight of twelve-69 kg), T3 (average age of three months and weight of twelve-54 kg), T4 (average age of three months and weight of twelve-69 kg), and T5 (average age of three months and weight of twelve-84 kg), in that order. Treatment T1 is composed entirely of groundnut cake, while treatments T2, T3, T4, and T5 are composed of 25%, 50%, and 100% guar meal replacements, respectively. Use of a Complete Randomized Design was used for analysis. The growth performance in each treatment is not significantly different from the other, according to the results. The kids in treatment groups T1, T2, and T3 showed a substantially different total weight gain than groups T4 and T5. The experiment\'s findings demonstrated that the effects of the supplemented treatment were not statistically significant for live body weight, total weight gain, body length, body height, or chest circumference.','Guar meal, Growth performance, Blood parameters, Cost structure','There was no significant effect of body weight, body length, body height and chest girth of kids under different diets. From the present investigation it can be concluded that incorporation 50 per cent guar meal and 50 percent groundnut cake in concentrate diet is economical without affecting the growth of the kids.','-','Minal Tajne, R.A. Patil, D.V. Bainwad,Sumit Gawali and Akanksha Chavan (2023). Effect of Replacing Groundnut Cake with Guar Meal on Growth Performance of Osmanabadi Weaned Kids. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 15(11): 447-451.'),(8071,'169','Histochemical Studies of Leaf and Stem of Blepharis sindica for Localization of Starch and Proteins','Rajneesh Sharma and Shikha Roy','Histochemical-Studies-of-Leaf-and-Stem-of-Blepharis-sindica-for-Localization-of-Starch-and-Proteins-Rajneesh-Sharma-78.pdf','',1,'Blepharis sindica is vulnerable plant of thar desert which belongs to Acanthaceae family. This plant has typical desert adaptation like narrow leaves, strong root system. Spiny bract to protect the flowers. Because plant has medicinal values due to which localization of different elements (protein, carbohydrates, lipids) in different plant parts like stem ,leaf become important. In stem, protein concentration was observed high in epidermis, outer and inner cortex, pericycle and vascular tissues, xylem and phloem; to some extent it was found in pith. In leaf, concentration of protein was found very high in vascular bundles, bundle sheath, palisade and chlorenchyma tissues and also spongy parenchyma. Upper epidermis and thick walled cells around midrib vascular bundles showed relatively less proteins. In stem, carbohydrates was present predominantly in epidermis, cortex and vascular tissues. However it was relatively less in pith region. In leaf, the carbohydrates was observed in all the tissues of the leaf. It was more prominent in the tissues with thick wall including Upper and Lower epidermis with cuticle. Carbohydrates were more localised in Vascular bundles (Median Vascular bundles) and laminar Vascular bundles, Bundle sheath cells and thick walled tissues and cells around MVb. However, soft tissues like Palisade tissue and Spongy parenchyma was observed with relatively less carbohydrates.','Histochemistry, protein, carbohydrates, Blepharis sindica','It is concluded that Blepharis sindica have proteins and carbohydrate presence in the different layer of stem and leaf. In leaf, very high concentration of protein in only median bundle and inner lamina but in case of stem high concentration of protein is in epidermis, outer and inner cortex, vascular bundles and pith so stem has large distribution area for protein as compare to leaf. Carbohydrate has distribution in sufficient amount in all over in stem except the pith region but in leaf carbohydrate has efficient distribution in all over except the soft tissues like; palisade and spongy parenchyma. ','-','Rajneesh Sharma and Shikha Roy (2023). Histochemical Studies of Leaf and Stem of Blepharis sindica for Localization of Starch and Proteins. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 15(11): 452-455.'),(8072,'169','Genetic model of Inheritance of Late leaf spot resistance in Groundnut (Arachis hypogaea. L)','Tukaram Sadgar, Viju Amolic, G. C. Shinde, S. R. More, R. T. Gaikwad, M. R. Patil, Puja Mate and Ramchandra Navatre ','Genetic-model-of-Inheritance-of-Late-leaf-spot-resistance-in-Groundnut-(Arachis-hypogaea.-L)-Tukaram-Sadgar-79.pdf','',1,'Groundnut late leaf spot disease caused by Phaeoisariopsis personata (Berk. & Curt.) is an most destructing biotic constraint for the groundnut production. Early leaf spot and late leaf spots, together can cause losses in pod yield of upto 60 percent and reduce the quality of the pod and fodder. To fulfill the need and challenges of edible oil demand and saving the expenditure on import of foreign edible oil, we need to increase the oilseed production through minimizing the biotic and abiotic stress losses. Identification and transfer of resistance source gene to develop advance breeding lines is one of the primary objective for resistance breeding in groundnut. Present experiment was carried out to understand the inheritance pattern of late leaf spot disease by using disease scoring scale at 90 to 100 days stage of maturity. The resistant parent Phule Unnati was crossed with susceptible SBXI recipient parent and different advance generations were scored as per 0 to 9 scale. The screening of generations like Parent (P1, P2) and generations like F1, F2, BC1 and BC2 was done at open field condition to know the disease reaction. The segregation pattern of F2 and back crossed generation revealed that resistance to late leaf spot is controlled by a single recessive gene and segregated in 15(Susceptible):1(Resistant) ratio. The 15:1 ratio indicates that the gene interaction involved for disease resistance was duplicate type. Genetics of late leaf spot disease resistance in groundnut and will aid groundnut breeders to develop a strategic late leaf spot disease resistance breeding program and to map the genes governing resistance.','Late leaf spot, duplicate gene interaction, F2 segregating population','The present investigation indicated better combinations like cross SBXI × Phule Unnati, associated with late leaf spot resistance. The parent Phule Unnati were found to be superior parents in contributing to late leaf spot resistance as well as pod yield and its component traits. The identified late leaf spot resistant plants obtained in F2 shall be utilized for development of resistant variety in groundnut. The results of the present study have important implications for breeding programs which aim to deploy LLS resistance genes or stack different genes conferring resistance to different pathotypes of LLS into elite cultivars. According to Thakur et al. (2008), pyramiding of genes is a strategy to develop varieties with durable DM resistance in cereal crop. The stacking of resistance genes with major effects delays the appearance of new races of the pathogen. The basis for this stability of resistance is the decrease in pathogen fitness when a number of virulence genes are necessary to overcome the resistance of the host (Van der Plank, 1984). Therefore, a potential strategy in order to maintain disease resistance for a long period of time would be the introgression of several resistance genes in a single variety. The data obtained in the present study demonstrated that the breeder should choose a number of sources having different resistance genes for gene pyramiding, in order to put together in the best possible combination of genes in new cultivars. Therefore, these varieties expressing durable resistance would be resistant to a large number of pathotypes of the pathogen over a long period of time. However, more studies are required to identify different resistance genes (non-allelic) for their spatial and temporal deployment.','-','Tukaram Sadgar, Viju Amolic, G. C. Shinde, S. R. More, R. T. Gaikwad, M. R. Patil, Puja Mate and Ramchandra Navatre (2023). Genetic model of Inheritance of Late leaf spot resistance in Groundnut (Arachis hypogaea. L). Biological Forum – An International Journal, 15(11): 456-460.'),(8073,'167','Integrated Management of Collar Rot Disease of Groundnut','D.K. Debata and L.K. Das','Integrated-Management-of-Collar-Rot-Disease-of-Groundnut-DR-L.K.-DAS-17.pdf','',1,'Collar rot disease caused by Aspergillus nigervan Teighem is an important seed- and soil-borne disease of groundnut (Arachis hypogaea L.) that affects seed quality and reduces yield. The experiments were conducted in Kharif in RRTTS, G. Udayagiri, Odisha in 2021 and 2022. The effects of seed treatment, application of neem cake to soil and inoculation of bioagents in FYM and soil drenching with fungicides should be studied. The treatments were carried out on seeds of Trichoderma viride (5 g/kg seeds) and Pseudomonas fluorescens (10 g/kg seeds) with 1.5 q/ha of neem cake applied to the soil and 4 kg of bioagents applied to the soil in 10 qtl FYM, incubated at 30% humidity. for 15 days in the stable and applied twice on the 15th and 30th days after sowing and scattering validamycin (0.2%) in the soil and (metalaxyl + mancozeb) (0.2%)] on the 15th and 30th day after sowing (DAS). The rate was (61%) and highest pod yields of 1557 kg/ha were recorded with soil application of Neemcake@1.5q/ha 15 days after sowing and during sowing + application of 4 kg of bioagent in 10q FYM to the soil, incubated in the stable at 30% humidity for 15 days and application twice after 15 and 30 days after sowing, then seed coating with T. viride @ 5 g/kg seeds + soil By applying 4 kg of bioagent in 10 qtl FYM, incubated at 30% humidity under dispersion conditions for 15 days, and two applications on the 15th and 30th days after sowing, diseases can be prevented up to 52% with a pod yield of 1510 kg/ha. ','Collar rot, Aspergillus niger, groundnut, FYM','Percentage control of disease was highest (61%) and pod yield (1557 kg/ha) was recorded by application of neem cake @1.5q/ha at 15 days after sowing and at the time of earthing up + Soil application with (Metalaxyl + Mancozeb) @ 0.2% twice at 15 DAS and 30 DAS.\r\nIntegration of bioagents and fungicides in farmers field could be undertaken in future.\r\n','-','-'),(8074,'168','Genetic Studies in F3 Population of Cross Miraj Local × AAC-1 in China Aster [Callistephus chinensis (L.) Nees.]','Tanzeela Kanganolli, Mukund Shiragur, B.C. Patil, Manjula Karadiguddi, Sayeed Almas and Naveen Puttaswamy','Genetic-Studies-in-F3-Population-of-Cross-Miraj-Local-AAC-1-in-China-Aster-[Callistephus-chinensis-(L.)-Nees.]-Tanzeela-kanganolli-303.pdf','',1,'During 2021–2022, the Kittur Rani Channamma College of Horticulture in Arabhavi conducted an evaluation of the genetic variability in the F3 population of the cross Miraj Local × AAC-1 in China aster. Across all traits, the phenotypic coefficient of variation was greater than the genotypic coefficient of variation. For each plant, the number of branches, leaf area, number of leaves, number of flowers, flower yield, and seed yield were found to have high (>20%) phenotypic coefficient of variation (PCV) and genotypic coefficient of variation (GCV). For plant height, number of flowers per plant, flower yield per plant, and seed yield per plant, high heritability (>60%) combined with high genetic advance as percent over mean (>20%) was noted. These findings suggest that additive gene effects are responsible for the high heritability, which can be used to further agricultural improvement programs.','China aster, Miraj Local, AAC-1, Variability, Heritability','In conclusion, present study revealed that there was a wide range of variability existed in cross Miraj Local × AAC-1 for different growth, flowering, quality and yield parameters. Plants which exhibited different characters with high heritability coupled with high genetic advance would be effective for selection and utilized for breeding of high yielding China aster cultivars.','-','Tanzeela Kanganolli, Mukund Shiragur, B.C. Patil, Manjula Karadiguddi, Sayeed Almas and Naveen Puttaswamy (2023). Genetic Studies in F3 Population of Cross Miraj Local × AAC-1 in China Aster [Callistephus chinensis (L.) Nees.]. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 15(10): 1668-1670.'),(8075,'170','Effect of Fertility Levels with Micronutrient Fortification and Bio Enhancer on Growth and Yield of Onion (Allium cepa L.)','A.R. Patel, Piyush Verma, Chandni V. Mori and V.K. Parmar ','Effect of Fertility Levels with Micronutrient Fortification and Bio Enhancer on Growth and Yield of Onion (Allium cepa L.)-AR Patel-8.pdf','',1,'Micronutrient deficiency and suboptimal fertility levels in soil can significantly impact the growth, yield, and quality of agricultural crops, including onions (Allium cepa L.). Addressing these issues through targeted interventions, such as micronutrient fortification and bioenhancers, holds promise for enhancing crop productivity and nutritional quality. This research paper investigates the effect of varying fertility levels in combination with micronutrient fortification and bioenhancer application on the growth, yield, and quality of onion crops.\r\nThe investigation entitled effect of fertility levels with micronutrient fortification and bio enhancer on growth and yield of onion (Allium cepa L.) was carried out during rabi season of 2020-21 and 2021-22 at College Farm, College of Horticulture, S. D. Agricultural University, Jagudan. A factorial experiment was conducted with a randomized block design, comprising three factors i.e., two levels of fertilizer i.e., 80 per cent RDF (L1) and 60 per cent RDF (L2); micronutrient fortification with six levels i.e., Zinc @ 5 kg/ha (M1), Zinc @ 10 kg/ha (M2), Iron @ 5 kg/ha (M3), Iron @ 10 kg/ha (M4), Zinc + Iron @ 2.5 kg/ha each (M5) and Zinc + Iron @ 5 kg/ha each (M6) and two levels of bioenhancer i.e., NPK consortium @ 5.0 l/ha at sowing (B1) and Jeevamrut @ 500 l/ha at sowing, 45 DAP and 90 DAP (B2). Thus, there were total 24 treatment combinations under study. The experiment was laid out in Randomized Block Design with factorial concept with three replications. Based on the findings of this study, it can be concluded that the application of 80 per cent RDF along with soil application of Zinc + Iron @ 5 kg/ha each and drenching of jeevamrut at sowing, 45 DAP and 90 DAP was the best in terms of growth and yield as well in economic return in rabi onion. The challenges may include intricacies in controlling and measuring nutrient interactions, potential variations in soil conditions, and the need for comprehensive data analysis to discern the nuanced impact on crop productivity.\r\n','Bio enhancer, Fertility levels, Fortification, Growth, Micronutrient, Onion, Yield','In conclusion, the research extensively examined various growth, yield, quality, plant analysis, soil analysis, post-harvest, and economic parameters in onion cultivation. The application of different treatments significantly influenced many of these parameters, demonstrating the importance of nutrient management strategies. Noteworthy findings include the positive impact of the NPK consortium on plant height, the role of Zinc + Iron in enhancing yield parameters, and the beneficial effects of Jeevamrut on both yield and quality parameters. Additionally, interactions between fertility levels, micronutrient fortification, and bio-enhancers were explored. The study provides valuable insights into optimizing onion cultivation practices for improved productivity, quality, and economic returns. Based on the results of this study, it can be concluded that the application of 80 per cent RDF along with soil application of Zinc + Iron @ 5 kg each and drenching of jeevamrut at sowing, 45 DAP and 90 DAP was the best in terms of growth and yield parameters in rabi onion.','-','A.R. Patel, Piyush Verma, Chandni V. Mori and V.K. Parmar (2023). Effect of Fertility Levels with Micronutrient Fortification and Bio Enhancer on Growth and Yield of Onion (Allium cepa L.). Biological Forum – An International Journal, 15(12): 34-44.'),(8076,'169','Population Dynamics of Mustard Sawfly, Athalia proxima (Klug) in Radish','Manvi Aggarwal and S.D. Patel','Population-Dynamics-of-Mustard-Sawfly-Athalia-proxima-(Klug)-in-Radish-Manvi-Aggarwal-80.pdf','',1,'An experiment on the population dynamics of mustard sawfly, Athalia proxima (Klug) (Hymenoptera: Tenthredinidae) in radish was conducted at Anand Agricultural University, Anand, Gujarat during Rabi, 2022-2023. The infestation of A. proxima in radish crop commenced in the second week of December (50th SMW) and it persisted up to the harvest of crop (4th SMW). The population of mustard sawfly fluctuated from 0.55 to 1.95 larvae/plant and attained a peak (1.95 larvae/plant) during the fourth week of December (52nd SMW). Thereafter, the population gradually declined and it was recorded up to harvest of the crop in the fourth week of January (4th SMW). The population of A. proxima exhibited non-significant negative correlation with all the weather parameters such as maximum temperature, minimum temperature, morning relative humidity, evening relative humidity, bright sunshine hours, wind speed, morning as well as evening vapour pressure and vapour pressure deficit. A. proxima causes significant damage to the radish crop at the seedling stage but information pertaining to its incidence and correlation with different weather parameters on radish is scarce. Hence, the study on population dynamics of A. proxima in radish was conducted.','Population dynamics, Athalia proxima, Radish, Mustard sawfly','From the present study, it can be concluded that the infestation of A. proxima in radish during Rabi commenced during the second week after germination i.e. second week of December (50th SMW) and it persisted up to the harvest of crop (4th SMW). The population attained a peak (1.95 larvae/plant) during the fourth week of December i.e. fourth week after germination (52nd SMW). Correlation analysis indicated that the larval population of A. proxima exhibited a non-significant negative correlation with all the weather parameters. ','-','Manvi Aggarwal and S.D. Patel (2023). Population Dynamics of Mustard Sawfly, Athalia proxima (Klug) in Radish. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 15(11): 461-463.'),(8077,'169','Fruitful Genetics: Unravelling Heterosis, Inbreeding Depression and Heritability in Okra (Abelmoschus esculentus) (L.) Moench) for Enhanced Yield Traits','Lalji N. Gediya, Rajesh R. Acharya, Mihir M. Pandya and Rutvik Joshi ','Fruitful-Genetics-Unravelling-Heterosis-Inbreeding-Depression-and-Heritability-in-Okra-(Abelmoschus-esculentus)-for-Enhanced-Yield-Traits-Lalji N Gediya-81.pdf','',1,'The study aimed to assess heterosis, inbreeding depression, and narrow sense heritability in okra regarding fruit yield and associated traits. Six generations from four crosses were evaluated for various characteristics. Promising outcomes were observed in specific crosses: GAO 5 × AOL 12-59 displayed significant heterobeltiosis for fruit yield and early flowering, while GAO 5 × Kashi Kranti showed positive heterobeltiosis for fruits per plant. Desirable inbreeding depression, signifying earliness, was evident in Pusa Sawani × AOL 10-22 and GAO 5 × AOL 13-144 for days to flowering. Traits like plant height, internodes on the main stem, fruit characteristics, and yield exhibited high narrow sense heritability, suggesting the potential for improved varieties through additive gene action in okra breeding programs.','Okra, Heterobeltiosis, Inbreeding Depression, Narrow Sense Heritability','Significant estimates of desirable heterobeltiosis for early flowering was observed for the cross GAO 5 × AOL 12-59 (-6.02 %). All four crosses showed negative and significant heterobeltiosis for length of internode, which was considered desirable. For fruits per plant, cross GAO 5 × Kashi Kranti depicted positive and significant heterobeltiosis (8.76 %). The cross GAO 5 × AOL 12-59 found to be promising for fruit yield and most of its component traits along with early flowering and first picking. Significant and positive inbreeding depression was found for days to flowering in the crosses Pusa Sawani × AOL 10-22 (3.71 %) and GAO 5 × AOL 13-144 (3.37 %) which was considered desirable for earliness.\r\nHigh narrow sense heritability was recorded for plant height, internodes on main stem, length of internode, branches per plant, fruit length, fruit girth, fruit weight, fruits per plant and fruit yield per plant indicating that these characters were largely governed by genes acting in additive manner. Higher narrow sense heritability predicts higher selection efficiency so the plant breeder can go for selection of individual or group of characters. In crop like okra, high narrow sense heritability estimates may be helpful for the development of improved varieties by fixation of additive gene action.\r\n','-','Lalji N. Gediya, Rajesh R. Acharya, Mihir M. Pandya and Rutvik Joshi (2023). Fruitful Genetics: Unravelling Heterosis, Inbreeding Depression and Heritability in Okra (Abelmoschus esculentus (L.) Moench) for Enhanced Yield Traits. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 15(11): 464-468.'),(8078,'169','Isolation and characterization of Colletotrichum spp. from infected chilli plant','Ranjana Joshi, Yenjerappa S.T., Aswathanarayana D.S., Sreedevi S. Chavan, Kisan B. and Lakshmikant M. ','Isolation-and-characterization-of-Colletotrichum-spp.-from-infected-chilli-plant-Ranjana-Joshi-82.pdf','',1,'Chilli is an important commercial and vegetable as well as spice crop. Anthracnose, derived from a Greek word meaning ‘coal’, is the common name for plant diseases characterized by dark, sunken lesions, containing spores. The disease causes extensive pre- and post-harvest damage to chilli fruits. The disease symptoms appears on leaves, stem and also on the fruits. In nurseries, most common symptom is damping-off or seedling blight. At various stages of growth die-back and leaf spotting occurs in plant. Since the pathogen causes extensive yield losses at all the stages of growth of plant. There was a need to isolate and characterize the pathogen in order to take proper management practices. The pathogen from the ripened fruits showing typical symptoms was isolated using tissue isolation technique and cultural and morphological characters were studied. The pathogen produced whitish cottony growth on PDA and black coloured bodies representing acervuli. The pathogen produced septate mycelium and acervulus with sharp pointed septate setae containing unbranched conidiophores bearing aseptate, hyaline, falcate shaped conidia tapering at one end with single oil globule at the centre. The setae were commonly smooth, septate and light brown to dark brown in colour, with cylindrical to conical base and sometimes slightly inflated and the tips were acute to roundish. ','Chilli anthracnose, Colletotrichum capsici, cultural, morphological characters','The symptoms of chilli anthracnose were typical observed under field conditions. The ripened fruits showing the sunken ulcer like lesions with black fruiting bodies were selected and Colletotrichum sp. was isolated. The cultural and molecular characters have proven that the pathogen is Colletotrichum capsica.','-','Ranjana Joshi, Yenjerappa S.T., Aswathanarayana D.S., Sreedevi S. Chavan, Kisan B. and Lakshmikant M. (2023). Isolation and characterization of Colletotrichum spp. from infected chilli plant. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 15(11): 469-472.'),(8079,'169','Effect of Planting Dates and Growing Conditions on Rose Scented geranium (Pelargonium graveolens L.) during Late rabi Season under Southern Telangana Zone','Thari Maneesha, D. Lakshminarayana, J. Cheena, G. Vidya and B. Naveen Kumar','Effect-of-Planting-Dates-and-Growing-Conditions-on-Rose-Scented-geranium-(Pelargonium-graveolens-L.)-during-Late-rabi-Season-under-Southern-Telangana-Zone-Thari-Maneesha-83.pdf','',1,'A field investigation entitled “Effect of planting dates and growing conditions on rose scented geranium (Pelargonium graveolens L.) was conducted during late rabi season under Southern Telangana zone” was conducted at Medicinal and Aromatic plant research station, Sri Konda Laxman Telangana State Horticultural University, Rajendranagar, Hyderabad during the year 2022-2023. The experiment was laid out in Factorial Randomized Block Design (FRBD) with nine treatments and three replications. Results revealed that maximum plant height (118.14 cm), number of leaves per plant (111.00) and essential oil yield per hectare (201.60 kg) were recorded in the treatment combination of T1 - P1G1 (December 1st + 50 % shade net). While the lowest plant height (72.57 cm) in T5 - P2G2 (December 15th + partial shade), number of leaves per plant (55.53) in T6 -P2G3 (December 15th + open condition) respectively, Whereas maximum essential oil yield per hectare (91.67 kg) was recorded in the treatment combination of T8 - P3G2 (January 1st + partial shade) as compared with other treatments.','Geranium, Essential oil, Shade net, Partial shade','It could be concluded from the present investigation that; different treatment combinations significantly influence the growth and quality of rose scented geranium. Among the interactions, P1G1 (December 1st + 50 % shade net) proved the best to improve growth and quality parameters under Southern Telangana conditions.','-','Thari Maneesha, D. Lakshminarayana, J. Cheena, G. Vidya and B. Naveen Kumar (2023). Effect of Planting Dates and Growing Conditions on Rose Scented geranium (Pelargonium graveolens L.) during Late rabi Season under Southern Telangana Zone. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 15(11): 473-476.'),(8080,'169','An Overview on Value Chain Development in Millets','Adupa Shanmuka and K. Shireesha','An-Overview-on-Value-Chain-Development-in-Millets-K-Shireesha-84.pdf','',1,'Millets are known for their high nutrient content, including fiber, protein, and essential micronutrients, addressing malnutrition concerns and promoting overall health. The millets value chain encompasses various stages, including production, processing, marketing, and consumption. At every stage the value chain has diversified challenges such as climate change, market access barriers, knowledge gaps, limited infrastructure, and lack of standardized grading. To address these challenges there is need for holistic approach which can create a resilient and sustainable agricultural system that aligns with the goals of environmental conservation, economic development, and improved nutrition. At the production level, emphasis is placed on adopting climate-smart agricultural practices to enhance yield while minimizing environmental impact. This involves promoting efficient water and resource management, incorporating organic farming methods, and leveraging innovative technologies. In the processing phase, value addition plays a crucial role in increasing the marketability of millet products. The development of processing units and the promotion of traditional and modern processing techniques contribute to the diversification of millet-based products, ranging from flours and cereals to snacks and beverages. This not only caters to consumer preferences but also creates income-generating opportunities for local communities. Marketing strategies focus on creating awareness about the nutritional benefits of millets and establishing market linkages between farmers, processors, and consumers. Strengthening these linkages ensures fair pricing, reduces post-harvest losses, and promotes a more inclusive and sustainable value chain. Furthermore, the adoption of millets in mainstream diets contributes to improved food security by diversifying the sources of nutrition. This review paper advocates for a comprehensive and collaborative approach involving farmers, government agencies, non-governmental organizations, and the private sector to drive millets value chain development. ','Millets value chain, Nutri cereals, Entrepreneurship development, Value addition, Policy interventions, Millets promotion','Hence the value chain in millets can be developed through a good balance among supply and demand factors of millets. The production and consumption of millets must be augmented with appropriate policy initiatives as a continuation of their efforts under INSIMP and NFSM. Consortium-mode research may be pursued for validation of highly productive technology under real farming situations. Effective deployment of trait-specific germplasm available in gene banks for genetic enhancement and evolving strategies for better seed production with public, private, and NGO partnerships and establishment of seed villages may be encouraged. Strengthening backward integration and linking farmers with markets through PPP initiatives contributes to the value chain development in millets.','-','Adupa Shanmuka and K. Shireesha (2023). An Overview on Value Chain Development in Millets. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 15(11): 477-482.'),(8081,'169','Phenotypic Variability Analysis of Moth Bean (Vigna aconitifolia) Accessions under Drought and Heat Stress Conditions','Monika Punia, Lalit Kumar Rolaniya, Ram Lal Jat, Ashok Kumar Parihar and Sudheer Kumar ','Phenotypic-Variability-Analysis-of-Moth-Bean-(Vigna-aconitifolia)-Accessions-under-Drought-and-Heat-Stress-Conditions-Monika-Punia-85.pdf','',1,'The moth bean (Vigna aconitifolia (Jacq.) Maréchal) is a pulse crop of significant economic value in the arid regions of India, known for their harsh drought conditions and extremely hot summers. In a comprehensive evaluation of phenotypic diversity, this study analyzed 300 moth bean accessions, taking into account seven qualitative and eight quantitative traits. The study uncovered extensive variability within the quantitative traits, in contrast to the qualitative traits which presented limited diversity. Analysis of variance demonstrated highly significant differences among the accessions for all measured quantitative traits, with the exception of plant height. The traits displayed a strong correlation between phenotypic and genotypic coefficients of variation, suggesting minimal environmental influence on trait expression. Notably, most traits showed high heritability with significant genetic advance potential, a pattern not observed for plant height and the number of seeds per pod, indicating these traits may be more complex and influenced by environmental factors. This research underlines the vast phenotypic diversity present in moth bean accessions and suggests a promising direction for future breeding programs aimed at enhancing crop resilience and productivity in arid environments.','Drought, moth bean, quantitative traits, heritability and phenotypic diversity','This study revealed that moth bean accessions comprised a wide range of variability for yield and yield attributing traits, which could be utilised to improve this valuable but neglected pulse crop. However, qualitative traits showed limited variability, but contrasting forms of some qualitative traits can be used to cross desirable parents and identify hybrid progeny. Accessions dominated the collection, with the semi-erect plant growth habit contributing 56.19 % of the total collection. Almost all the traits exhibited a close relationship between phenotypic and genotypic coefficients of variation, indicating that environment had little effect on their expression and direct selection can be done for improvement. ','-','Monika Punia, Lalit Kumar Rolaniya, Ram Lal Jat, Ashok Kumar Parihar and Sudheer Kumar (2023). Phenotypic Variability Analysis of Moth Bean (Vigna aconitifolia) Accessions under Drought and Heat Stress Conditions. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 15(11): 483-488.'),(8082,'169','Effect of Different Fertilizer Levels and Biostimulants on Growth and Yield of Cabbage (Brasssica oleracea var. capitata)','J.H. Brahmbhatt, G.S. Patel, D.L. Paramar, K.V. Chaudhary and S.K. Acharya','Effect-of-Different-Fertilizer-Levels-and-Biostimulants-on-Growth-and-Yield-of-Cabbage-(Brassica-oleracea-var.-capitata)-JH-Brahmbhatt-86.pdf','',1,'A field experiment was carried out on Golden Acre during rabi season of 2021-22 and 2022-23 at College farm, College of Horticulture, Sardarkrushinagar Dantiwada Agricultural University, Jagudan, Dist. Mehsana, Gujarat, India. Now a days directly organic farming is not affordable to the grower so we have to go on integrated concept of farming. Present investigation comprising three factors viz., three levels of fertilizer viz., 60 % RDF (f1), 80 % RDF (f2) and 100 % RDF (f3), biostimulant with three levels viz., Jeevamrut (b1), Vermiwash (b2) and Bio NPK Consortium (b3) and three levels of novel organic liquid nutrient viz., 1.0 % (n1), 1.5 % (n2) and 2.0 % (n3). Thus, there were total 27 treatment combinations under studyAmong three fertilizer levels of chemical source application of 100% RDF (f1) helped in obtaining maximum values for growth parameters viz., plant height at 30 DAT (cm), plant height at harvest (cm), number of leaves per plant at harvest while, minimum days taken for initiation of head after transplanting, days taken for edible maturity of head after transplanting and maximum value of yield parameters i.e., average weight of head (g), yield per plot (kg), yield per hectare (t). Among three biostimulants application of jeevamrut (b1)showed maximum values for growth parameters viz., plant height at harvest (cm), number of leaves per plant at harvest, yield parameters i.e., average weight of head (g), yield per plot (kg), yield per hectare (t)and among three different novel culture application of novel organic liquid nutrient @ 2.0 % (n3)showed maximum values for growth parameters viz., plant height at harvest (cm), number of leaves per plant at harvest, yield parameters i.e., average weight of head (g), yield per plot (kg), yield per hectare (t). While, interaction effect between fertilizer levels and biostimulant (f × b) shows significantly maximum plant height at harvest (cm), number of leaves per plant at harvest, average weight of head (g), yield per plot (kg) and yield per hectare (t) with the treatment combination of 100 % RDF + jeevamtut (f3b1). ','Cabbage, Biostimulant, Jeevamrut, Vermiwash, Bio NPK Consortium, novel organic liquid nutrient','On the basis of experimental evidence, higher growth and yield from cabbage cultivation can be obtained with the combined application of 100% recommended dose of fertilizer with the soil application of jeevamrut @ 500 l/ha drenching at 15, 30, 45 and 60 DAT and foliar spray @ 2.0 % of novel organic liquid nutrient at 20 and 40 DAT.','-','J.H. Brahmbhatt, G.S. Patel, D.L. Paramar, K.V. Chaudhary and S.K. Acharya (2023). Effect of Different Fertilizer Levels and Biostimulants on Growth and Yield of Cabbage (Brassica oleracea var. capitata). Biological Forum – An International Journal, 15(11): 489-494.'),(8083,'169','Effect of Imazethapyr on Symbiotic Activities, Quality and Nutrient Uptake of Blackgram (Vigna mungo L.)','Lalchand Kumawat, A.P. Singh, Bishan Singh, B. Rajeswara Reddy, Mude Ashok Naik, Ganpat Lal Kumawat, Ashok Kumar Samota, Ruchika Choudhary, Girraj Sharma and Simran Jast ','Effect-of-Imazethapyr-on-Symbiotic-Activities-Quality-and-Nutrient-Uptake-of-Blackgram-(Vigna-mungo-L.)-Lalchand-Kumawat-87.pdf','',1,'A field experiment completed during the summer season of 2022. The field study was conducted in the Agronomy farm at school of agricultural sciences and rural development, Nagaland University. The experiment was laid out in Randomize Block Design (RBD) with three replications and 7 weed control Treatments with Imazethapyr viz; T1 (Weedy check), T2 (Two hand weeding at 20 DAS and 40 DAS, T3 (Imazethapyr @ 50 g a.i. ha-1 at 10 DAS), T4 (Imazethapyr @ 75 g a.i. ha-1 at 10 DAS), T5 (Imazethapyr @ 50 g a.i. ha-1 at 15 DAS), T6 (Imazethapyr @ 75 g a.i. ha-1 at 15 DAS), T7 (Imazethapyr @ 100 g a.i. ha-1 at 25 DAS). The highest number of root nodule T7 (21.83) and maximum dry weight of root nodule (mg) T7 (15.50). Maximum nutrients (N, P and K) uptake by crop Treatment Two hand weeding at 20 DAS and 40 DAS are (43.87, 7.37 and 23.17 kg ha-1) followed by Imazethapyr @ 100 g a.i. ha-1 at 25 DAS (39.80, 6.77 and 21.67 kg ha-1) and highest nutrient depletion weedy chek treatment. In irrigated condition high weed infection in blackgram crop. This research find out suitable dose and time of imazethapyr in irrigated blackgram.','Blackgram, Uptake, Depletion, Imazethapyr','Different weed control techniques had a considerable impact on the quantity of root nodules in plant-1. The lowest root nodule and root dry weight was found in weedy check, while the highest were found in 50 DAS imazethapyr @ 100 g a.i. ha-1 at 25. The best results were obtained with the herbicide treatments Imazethapyr 100 g a.i. ha-1 at 25 DAS and two-hand weeding at 20 and 40 DAS, which maximised crop nutrient uptake.','-','Lalchand Kumawat, A.P. Singh, Bishan Singh, B. Rajeswara Reddy, Mude Ashok Naik, Ganpat Lal Kumawat, Ashok Kumar Samota, Ruchika Choudhary, Girraj Sharma and Simran Jast (2023). Effect of Imazethapyr on Symbiotic Activities, Quality and Nutrient Uptake of Blackgram (Vigna mungo L.). Biological Forum – An International Journal, 15(11): 495-498.'),(8084,'169','DEXA: A Python-based Tool for the Advanced Deciphering of Differential Gene Expression Patterns','Shbana Begam, Samarth Godara, Ramcharan Bhattacharya, Rajender Parsad and Sudeep Marwaha ','DEXA-A-Python-based-Tool-for-the-Advanced-Deciphering-of-Differential-Gene-Expression-Patterns-Shbana-Begam-88.pdf','',1,'In today\'s world of genomics research, where vast RNA-seq datasets are generated, there is a need for bioinformatics tools that provide a user-friendly and potent solution. These tools should enable researchers to swiftly and accurately identify differentially expressed genes, contributing to a deeper understanding of biological mechanisms and pathways of transcription regulators. In this direction, the present study introduces DEXA (Differential Gene Expression Analysis), a user-friendly Python tool for robust RNA-seq data analysis. Utilizing sophisticated statistical methods, DEXA identifies quantitative changes in gene expression by comparing normalized read count data between two conditions. The pipeline is developed from scratch, exhibiting autonomy from any pre-existing bioinformatics package or software. This independence enhances its capability to identify differentially expressed genes at the genetic level. DEXA takes normalized gene counts with replications from two different conditions as input and calculates log2 fold change values based on replicated normalized counts. By identifying genes acting as activators (exclusively expressed in treatment) and deactivators (exclusively expressed in control), DEXA offers valuable insights into the dynamics of gene regulation. DEXA contributes to the advancement of RNA-seq analysis by offering a comprehensive instant solution for researchers in genomics and molecular biology.','Activator, deactivators, genomics, differentially expressed gene, normalization, RNA-seq data','The development and implementation of DEXA, a pipeline for differential gene expression analysis, signify a noteworthy advancement in RNA-seq data analysis. DEXA, a user-friendly Python pipeline, effectively leverages statistical methods and cutting-edge RNA-seq analysis techniques, to identify differentially expressed genes (DEGs) at the genetic level. Robust features within the pipeline, such as log2 fold change calculation, t-test execution, and DEGs classification analysis, contribute to a nuanced understanding of changes in gene expression.\r\nDEXA\'s ability to generate a curated list of DEGs with significant expression alterations enhances its utility for researchers exploring the complexities of biological processes or investigating specific biological pathways. By addressing limitations present in existing methods (DESeq2 and EdgeR), DEXA emerges as a valuable tool for the scientific community, offering a versatile and comprehensive approach to unravelling the complexities of differential gene expression. The successful implementation of DEXA represents a crucial step forward in the field of RNA-seq analysis, providing researchers with an efficient and reliable means to gain insights into the molecular landscape underlying various experimental conditions.\r\n','-','Shbana Begam, Samarth Godara, Ramcharan Bhattacharya, Rajender Parsad and Sudeep Marwaha (2023). DEXA: A Python-based Tool for the Advanced Deciphering of Differential Gene Expression Patterns. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 15(11): 499-504.'),(8085,'170','An Eco-friendly Management option against Root-knot Nematode, (Meloidogyne incognita) Infecting Bitter gourd (Momordica charantia L.)','Javed Khan, B. L. Baheti, H.K. Sharma, H.L. Bairwa, Arvind Verma and C.P. Nama','An Eco-friendly Management option against Root-knot Nematode, (Meloidogyne incognita) Infecting Bitter gourd (Momordica charantia L.)-Javed Khan-9.pdf','',1,'Bitter gourd is very important and healthy vegetable crop worldwide. Bitter gourd is greatly affected by several biotic factors and abiotic factors. Among biotic factors fungi, bacteria, insect pests and nematodes cause a heavy loss in quantity and quality of fruits. Among plant parasitic nematode, root-knot nematode (Meloidogyne incognita) is the most widely distributed and the destructive nematode. It is considered as one of the major limiting factors in the production of bitter gourd. Due to heavy losses incurred by these ting organisms, it become a tough task to manage them economically. Owing to adverse impacts of chemicals on human health, there is need of some ecofriendly methods of nematode management. Biological nematode control in relation to crop production system is a subject of considerable current interest, because of a perceived urgency to develop and adopt safe, economic and efficient method for managing nematode pest of crops. During present investigation, vermicompost enriched with bio-agents viz., Beauveria bassiana, Purpureocillium lilacinum and Metarhizium anisopliae were tested as soil treatment @ 2.5 g, 5 g and 10 g/plant for the management of M. incognita on bitter gourd. Results showed that P. lilacinum @ 10 g/plant was found most effective followed by Beauveria bassiana @ 10 g/plant and Metarhizium anisopliae @ 10 g/plant which enhanced the plant growth parameters of bitter gourd and also reduced the nematode multiplication factors.','Beauveria bassiana, Bio-agents, Bitter gourd, Meloidogyne incognita, Metarhizium anisopliae, Purpureocillium lilacinum and Vermicompost.','Utilization of eco-friendly techniques is a trending current issue and for future research. Due to the wide versatility of this area and synergistic or additive effect with other agricultural inputs, it can be included in eco-friendly management approach. Present investigation focuses on the use of bio-agents and organic amendments in sustainable agriculture system and opens vistas for the use of bio-nematicides which are promising as well as ecologically sound and safe. Hence, efforts in discovering new non-chemical or eco-friendly strategies for nematode management should be continued to overcome future challenges too.','-','Javed Khan, B. L. Baheti, H.K. Sharma, H.L. Bairwa, Arvind Verma and C.P. Nama (2023). An Eco-friendly Management option against root-knot nematode, (Meloidogyne incognita) infecting Bitter gourd (Momordica charantia L.). Biological Forum – An International Journal, 15(12): 45-52.'),(8086,'169','Performance Evaluation of Garlic Genotypes for Phenotypical and Yield Parameters under Nilgiris Condition','S. Karthikeyan, S.P. Thamaraiselvi, V.P. Santhi, R. Swarnapriya and V. Sivakumar ','Performance-Evaluation-of-Garlic-Genotypes-for-Phenotypical-and-Yield-Parameters-under-Nilgiris-Condition-S-Karthikeyan-89.pdf','',1,'The present study on the performance evaluation of different garlic genotypes under Nilgiris which is a temperate zone was taken up to assess the phenotypical and yield parameters during the year 2018 in Kharif season. The field trial was carried out in the research farm of Horticultural Research Station, Tamil Nadu Agricultural University, Ooty, The Nilgiris. The work was taken up with eight garlic genotypes under randomized block design with three replications. The identification of newer types of garlic genotypes for morphological and yield parameters combined with disease and pest resistance will help in increasing the productivity of the crop. The productivity is a major factor which helps in increasing the yield potential of garlic in India for which continuous evaluation will help to identify more better yielding types. Among the genotypes evaluated for its performance, the entry GN-18-52 recorded the maximum plant height (71.11 cm), average bulb weight (44.16 g), average clove weight (24.40 g), marketable yield and total yield was observed in entry GN-18-52 (97.80 q/ha) and (102.20 q /ha) leaf length (49.50 cm) was maximum in GN-18-57. Considering the better performing characters for positive attributes which will support for its yield and quality, the genotype GN-18-52 considered to be promising and selected for further trials with a view to consider for release of a variety.','Evaluation, garlic genotypes, Nilgiris','The results of the present study to evaluate the performance of the different garlic genotypes under the Nilgiris conditions during Kharif season indicates that entry with GN-18-52 performs better for most for most of the morphological and yield attributing characters which can be further assessed under large scale trials to impart its adaptability under the similar temperate growing regions for better yield and productivity. ','-','S. Karthikeyan, S.P. Thamaraiselvi, V.P. Santhi, R. Swarnapriya and V. Sivakumar (2023). Performance Evaluation of Garlic Genotypes for Phenotypical and Yield Parameters under Nilgiris Condition. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 15(11): 505-508.'),(8087,'148','Statical Analysis of Rainfall Data: A Case Study of Hamirpur District, Himachal Pradesh','Prithi Pal Singh and M.R. Sharma ','Statical-Analysis-of-Rainfall-Data-A-Case-Study-of-Hamirpur-District,-Himachal-Pradesh-Prithi-Pal-Singh-121.pdf','',1,'Rainfall analysis is crucial for designing engineering projects and managing water resources. This paper focuses on the statistical study of rainfall in Hamirpur District, Himachal Pradesh, over a 30-year period, aiming to provide essential information for water resource planners, farmers and urban planners in the region. Mean, standard deviation, coefficient of variation, skewness, and kurtosis of monthly and annual rainfall were computed. Results revealed an unpredictable rainfall pattern, emphasizing the need for accurate input values in engineering design and crop planning. The study utilized various plotting position formulae and probability distribution functions to analyse the return period of yearly rainfall, identifying the Chegodayev technique as the most fitting distribution for this purpose. The projected rainfall for 5, 10, 50, 100, and 150 years return periods are 1279.57 mm, 1362.06 mm, 2021.97 mm, 2846.86 mm, and 3671.76 mm, respectively. This research contributes valuable insights into the specific rainfall dynamics of Hamirpur District, Himachal Pradesh, enhancing the relevance of the findings for local water management and infrastructure planning. The study faced challenges in dealing with the inherent unpredictability of rainfall patterns, particularly in months with lower variability. Additionally, ensuring the accuracy of input values for engineering structures and crop planning posed a significant challenge. This research makes significant contributions by providing in-depth statistical insights into the rainfall patterns of Hamirpur District. The identification of the Chegodayev technique as the optimal method for analysing return periods enhances the accuracy of rainfall projections for various planning horizons. The findings serve as a valuable resource for water resource planners, farmers and urban planners, facilitating informed decision-making in the development of engineering structures and crop planning strategies. The study underscores the importance of robust statistical analyses in understanding and managing the variability of rainfall, thereby contributing to the resilience and sustainability of water-related projects.','Statistical Analysis, Hamirpur (H.P.), Return Period, Rainfall Data','Statistical analysis of rainfall data of Hamirpur District (H.P.) for (1994–2023) was done to understand the rainfall pattern of the Hamirpur District. The mean, standard deviation and coefficient of variation of yearly and monthly rainfall were determined to check the rainfall variability. From the calculated results, the rainfall pattern is found to be erratic. The greatest rainfall of 1728.20 mm occurred in 1997, followed by 1569.90 mm in 2006 while the minimum rainfall of 817.20 mm occurred in 2017, and average annual rainfall for the 30-year period is 1274.45 mm. The highest mean rainfall value is in August (374.19 mm) and the least is in November (15.31 mm). Generally, A high variability is noted in rainfall data for October, November and December (137.74%, 186.46% and 133.70%) respectively and lower variability in rainfall for July, August and September (36.04%, 30.61% and 39.58%) respectively.\r\nAgriculture engineers, farmers, and planners of water resources will all benefit from this analysis. It will provide assistance to them in determining the availability of water and design the appropriate storage. For instance, given the very unpredictable rainfall pattern, good drainage systems in areas where they do not already exist can be properly designed which will avoid flooding, in agricultural stabilization and also offer farmers security when making long-term investments. It will also aid in a better understanding of climate and rainfall patterns on a regional and global scale.\r\nOnce adequate data becomes available, it is recommended that similar studies be performed for other districts of Himachal Pradesh. Short duration storms which higher intensities, as opposed to longer storms with higher constant loading, can have different effects on drainage systems.\r\nThe findings of this study lay the groundwork for future research endeavors in the field of rainfall analysis and water resource management. Subsequent studies could explore the integration of advanced meteorological models and climate change projections to enhance the accuracy of long-term rainfall predictions. Additionally, investigations into the impact of unpredictable rainfall patterns on specific agricultural practices and urban infrastructure development could provide valuable insights for adaptive planning. The incorporation of emerging technologies, such as remote sensing and machine learning, could further refine our understanding of regional rainfall variations and contribute to the development of more robust engineering solutions and sustainable water management strategies.\r\nIt is important to declare that there is no conflict of interest associated with the research presented in this paper. The authors have conducted this study with a commitment to scientific integrity and objectivity, free from any external influences that could compromise the validity or impartiality of the findings. The research is solely aimed at contributing to the scientific community\'s understanding of rainfall patterns in Hamirpur District, Himachal Pradesh, and providing practical insights for water resource planning and infrastructure development.\r\n','-','Prithi Pal Singh and M.R. Sharma (2023). Statical Analysis of Rainfall Data: A Case Study of Hamirpur District, Himachal Pradesh. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 15(1): 737-742.'),(8088,'169','Screening of Okra Genotypes for Resistance against Amrasca biguttula biguttula','J.G. Dose, N.S. Satpute, S.V. Annala and S.K. Bhalkare ','Screening-of-Okra-Genotypes-for-Resistance-against-Amrasca-biguttula-biguttula-Dose-Janhavi-G-90.pdf','',1,'The okra leafhopper Amrasca biguttula biguttula (Ishida) has emerged as a major threat, triggering significant yield losses. To address this, we aimed to screened okra genotypes for resistance or susceptibility against Amrasca biguttula biguttula was conducted at Centre for Organic Agriculture Research and Training, Department of Agronomy, Dr. PDKV, Akola during Kharif 2022-23. The trial consisted of 20 genotypes replicated twice in Randomized Block Design. The studies on field screening of okra genotypes revealed that none of the genotypes were completely free from the leafhopper infestation, although they differ significantly in their percentage of damage and number of populations. Among these PDKV Pragati, Arka Anamika, Parbhani Kranti and Akola Bahar were found with least average population < 3.346 leafhoppers per 3 leaves per 5 plants and graded under resistant category. However, the maximum mean population > 4.654 leafhoppers per 3 leaves per 5 plants was observed on the genotypes Korchi × Phule and Vijayalaxmi were categorized as susceptible.','Okra, genotypes, leafhopper, screening, categorization','Study on screening of okra germplasm against leafhopper during 2022-23 concluded that PDKV Pragati, Arka Anamika, Parbhani Kranti and Akola Bahar were found to be resistant recording significantly less population of leafhopper. These genotypes are recognized as a source of resistance and could be used in breeding programme and development of IPM Strategies.','-','J.G. Dose, N.S. Satpute, S.V. Annala and S.K. Bhalkare (2023). Screening of Okra Genotypes for Resistance against Amrasca biguttula biguttula. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 15(11): 509-512.'),(8089,'169','Agronomic Biofortification of Iron and Zinc and its Effect on Growth, Yield and Quality of Wheat Crop','Priya Satwadhar, Syed Ismail, Dhamak A.L. and Kalpande H.V. ','Agronomic-Biofortification-of-Iron-and-Zinc-and-its-Effect-on-Growth,-Yield-and-Quality-of-Wheat-Crop-Priya-Satwadhar-91.pdf','',1,'Micronutrient deficiencies in soil, as it not only leads to declining crop yields but also contributes to poor quality of produce, leading to dietary micronutrient deficiencies in human beings. In many micronutrient-deficient regions, wheat is the dominant staple food making up >50% of the diet. Agronomic biofortification with application of microbial inoculants and fertilizers to improve the nutritional quality of foods is a new approach being used to improve the nutrient content of a variety of staple crops. The present field experiments were conducted during rabi 2021-22 and rabi 2022-23 at research farm of Soil Science and Agricultural Chemistry, VNMKV, Parbhani to evaluate the iron and zinc solubilizing microbes as novel tool for biofortification in wheat. Experiment consists of thirty-six treatment combinations which includes four iron and zinc solubilizing inoculants (Control, Pseudomona striata, Pseudomona fluorescens and Bacillus megaterium), three levels of iron sulphate (0, 20, and 40 kg FeSO4 ha-1) and three levels of zinc sulphate (0,20, and 40 kg ZnSO4 ha-1) which were replicated twice in factorial complete randomized block design. The results indicated significant effect of microbial cultures and graded levels of FeSO4 and ZnSO4 on plant height, number of leaves, number of tillers and leaf area and total chlorophyll content of leaves of wheat crop. Microbial inoculants especially Pseudomona striata and iron and zinc level upto 40 kg ha-1 each found effective on growth parameters. The significant effect of microbial inoculants and graded levels of iron sulphate and zinc sulphate was seen on grain yield and straw yield of wheat. Highest grain and straw yield reported with Pseudomona striata i.e 2968 kg ha-1 grain yield and 5331 kg ha-1 straw yield. Further, 40 kg FeSO4 reported maximum grain yield (2975 kg ha-1) and straw yield (5612 kg ha-1). Similarly, 40 kg ZnSO4 ha-1 observed higher grain yield (2971 kg ha-1) and straw yield (5530 kg ha-1). Quality of wheat grains was also influenced by application of Pseudomona striata and 40 kg zinc and iron sulphate each ha-1. ','Microbial inoculants, wheat, iron sulphate, zinc sulphate, Pseudomona','From the results it can be concluded that application of microbial inoculants particularly Pseudomona striata and 40 kg FeSO4 kg ha-1 and 40 kg FeSO4 kg ha-1 significantly increases growth parameters like plant height, number of tillers, number of leaves, leaf area and chlorophyll content. Also, significant increase in yield and quality parameter with application of Pseudomona striata and 40 kg FeSO4 ha-1 and 40 kg FeSO4 ha-1 along with recommended dose of fertilizers.','-','Priya Satwadhar, Syed Ismail, Dhamak A.L. and Kalpande H.V. (2023). Agronomic Biofortification of Iron and Zinc and its Effect on Growth, Yield and Quality of Wheat Crop. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 15(11): 513-519.'),(8090,'169','Studies on variability for Yield and Yield Attributing Traits in Groundnut [Arachis hypogaea (L.)]','D.M. Suthar, D.G. Patel, P.R. Patel and N.V. Soni ','Studies-on-variability-for-Yield-and-Yield-Attributing-Traits-in-Groundnut-[Arachis-hypogaea-(L.)]-DM-Suthar-92.pdf','',1,'Evaluating the presence of variability is crucial when planning a breeding program for efficient genetic improvement and promising variety development. This assessment ensures a diverse genetic pool, providing the raw material needed to select and breed individuals with desirable traits. Forty-two groundnut genotypes were evaluated for the assessment of genetic variability, heritability and genetic advance expressed as percent of mean during Kharif 2022. Analysis of variance revealed existence of quite substantial differences among the genotypes for all the characters examined. The values of GCV were slightly lower than PCV showing a minor effect of environment over all the characters. Moderate values of GCV and PCV were recorded for characters like, pod yield per plant, number of mature pod per plant, 100-kernel weight, plant height and harvest index. Harvest index, pod yield per plant and number of mature pod per plant showed the high estimates of heritability along with the high genetic advance expressed as per cent of mean, indicating the preponderance of additive gene action in governing the inheritance nature of these characters and selection for these traits would be advantageous for genetic improvement.','Genetic variability, Groundnut, GCV, PCV, Heritability, Genetic advance','From present investigation, the results of analysis of variance showed sufficient variability present among the genotypes of groundnut. High estimates of heritability coupled with high GAM was observed for harvest index followed by pod yield per plant and mature pods per plant, indicating selection for these traits would be beneficial for genetic improvement in future breeding programs. The higher mean values of the genotypes for pod yield per plant were observed for ICGV-16697 followed by IVK I 2021-6, JVB-2577 and TG-37A (Table 5) highlights the best genotypes for genetic improvement and we can used as parents in further breeding programme.','-','D.M. Suthar, D.G. Patel, P.R. Patel and N.V. Soni (2023). Studies on variability for Yield and Yield Attributing Traits in Groundnut [Arachis hypogaea (L.)]. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 15(11): 520-525.'),(8091,'169','Population Dynamics of Mango Leaf Cutting Weevil (Deporaus marginatus Pascoe) in Relation to Abiotic Factors and Varietal Screening of Mango Mother Plants in Nursery','Khimani V.M. and Chavan S.M.','Population-Dynamics-of-Mango-Leaf-Cutting-Weevil-(Deporaus-marginatus-Pascoe)-in-Relation-to-Abiotic-Factors-and-Varietal-Screening-of-Mango-Mother-Plants-in-Nursery-Khimani-VM-93.pdf','',1,'Studies on population dynamics and varietal screening relevant to mango leaf cutting weevil (Deporaus marginatus Pascoe) were conducted in 2022 at Navsari Agricultural University, Gujarat, India. Mango mother plants and grafted plants were observed at a weekly interval. Infestation of D. marginatus on the young leaves of mango mother plants was recorded from the 21st to the 40th SMW. The population of D. marginatus in terms of ‘number of eggs laid per leaf’ on mango mother plants was recorded at its maximum (8.3 eggs/leaf) in the 32nd SMW. The population of D. marginatus in terms of ‘per cent leaf damage’ on mango mother plants was recorded at its maximum (18.39 %) in the 27th SMW. Infestation of D. marginatus on grafted plants of mango was recorded at its maximum (37.89 %) in the 33rd SMW. The population of D. marginatus was positively influenced by rainfall and relative humidity. The significantly highest infestation of D. marginatus was recorded in Amrapali (8.15 %) and Alphonso (7.12%). While the significantly least infestation was recorded in Langra (1.13%).','Mango leaf cutting weevil, Deporaus marginatus Pascoe, Population dynamics, Varietal screening','Based on results from studies, it can be concluded that the mango leaf cutting weevil (Deporaus marginatus Pascoe) is a pest of grafted and young plants of mango as it causes damage to the young leaves (new flushes). Infestation of D. marginatus can be observed during the rainy season due to the positive influence of rainfall and humidity. The D. marginatus prefers varieties viz., Amrapali and Alphonso over the least susceptible Langra.','-','Khimani V.M. and Chavan S.M. (2023). Population Dynamics of Mango Leaf Cutting Weevil (Deporaus marginatus Pascoe) in Relation to Abiotic Factors and Varietal Screening of Mango Mother Plants in Nursery. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 15(11): 526-532.'),(8092,'169','Genetic Analysis for Yield and other Important Characters Related to Yield in Cowpea (Vigna unguiculata (L.) Walp.)','K.S. Mungra, P.A. Vavdiya, Y.V. Naghera, D.A. Chauhan and M.R. Prajapati ','Genetic-Analysis-for-Yield-and-other-Important-Characters-Related-to-Yield-in-Cowpea-(Vigna-unguiculata-(L.)-Walp.)-KS-Mungra-94.pdf','',1,'For the improvement of quantitative traits in cowpea, selection of parents, making cross combination and selecting better transgressive segregants require knowledge of various gene action that’s why this study employed a six-parameter model to determine the significance of grain yield per plant and its constituent characteristics in two crosses, including both additive and dominant gene effects. The dominant gene action has a larger magnitude than the additive gene effect. In the cross NCK-13-11 × NCK-15-09, clusters per plant, pods per plant, seeds per pod, pod length, 100 seed weight, harvest index and protein content were found significantly impacted by additive × additive gene interaction among epistasis; similarly, plant height, clusters per plant, seeds per pod and 100 seed weight were found significantly impacted in the cross NCK-13-11 × GC-3. With the exception of plant height, branches per plant and harvest index in the cross NCK-13-11 × NCK-15-09 and reproductive phase duration, branches per plant, clusters per plant, pods per plant, pod length, grain yield per plant and harvest index in the cross NCK-13-11 × GC-3, dominance × dominance component contributed significantly in both the crosses. Non-allelic interactions, in addition to additive and dominant components, were important in determining the different cowpea characteristics. There was no evidence of complimentary gene interaction in any of the studied attributes. Cowpea\'s many characteristics were determined by non-allelic interactions in addition to additive and dominant components. It would be difficult for the breeder to produce possible segregants that are superior than the involved parents in this sort of situation by employing standard breeding approaches, such as making straightforward crosses and taking advantage of them through the direct pedigree approach. for improvement of cowpea, transgressive segregants can be produced by biparental mating system.','Generation mean analysis, scaling tests, generations, gene actions','In a nutshell, non-allelic interactions were important in determining the numerous features of cowpea, along with additive and dominant components. The majority of the traits exhibiting digenic interaction were shown to depend heavily on duplicate gene activity. In this kind of scenario, it would be challenging for the breeder to use traditional breeding techniques, such creating straightforward crossings and using the straight pedigree approach to exploit them, to obtain potential segregants that are superior to the involved parents. Breeding procedure involving multiple crosses, biparental crosses may be restores to get transgressive segregants. This is especially important to develop good pure lines having superiority in different characters.','-','K.S. Mungra, P.A. Vavdiya, Y.V. Naghera, D.A. Chauhan and M.R. Prajapati (2023). Genetic Analysis for Yield and other Important Characters Related to Yield in Cowpea (Vigna unguiculata (L.) Walp.). Biological Forum – An International Journal, 15(11): 533-536.'),(8093,'170','Effect of Varying Levels of Concentrate Feed Formulation on Cost Structure in Osmanabadi Weaned Kids','Sumit Gawali, D. V. Bainwad, Minal Tajne, R.A. Patil and Akanksha Chavan','Effect-of-varying-levels-of-concentrate-feed-formulation-on-cost-structure-in-Osmanabadi-weaned-kids-Sumit-Gawali-10.pdf','',1,'The experiment was conducted on Effect of varying levels of concentrate feed formulations and cost structure in Osmanabadi weaned kids. An experiment with Complete Randomized Design (CRD) for analysing the varying feed formulations and cost structure of commercial and homemade concentrate mixture under different concentrate feeds was conducted in Parbhani over a period of 90 days while taking concentrate feed as main factor. Eighteen Osmanabadi weaned kids selected with average body weight and their ages in three treatments as T1- Basal diet + Sugras as a concentrate mixture I (control), T2 - Basal diet + Concentrate mixture II (GNC 20% + jowar 22% + Wheat bran 5% + Tur 10% + Gram 10% + Mineral mixture 2% + Salt 1%), T3 - Basal diet + Concentrate mixture III (Soya Doc 20% + jowar 20% + Wheat bran 5% + Tur 10% + Gram 12% + Mineral mixture 2% + Salt 1%). In present investigation total six kids in each treatment T1, T2, and T3, respectively. In this experiment different feed formulations and cost structure also studied with efficient concentrate feed mixture. From the experimental findings it was observed that concentrate feed varies its cost by different type of formulations, high quality ingredients required high cost as compared to homemade ingredients.\r\nNote:- (In basal diet include green fodder (Dashrath grass, Paragrass, Napier grass, Hatga Subhabul) and dry fodder (Kadbi, Soyabean straw) as per the age and body weight required).\r\n','Cost structure, Feed formulation, Osmanabadi kids, Sugras, concentrate','Throughout 90 days of the experimental period, the implementation of different feed formulation does not affect certain nutritional-related blood profile in goat such as total protein, Hb, RBC, WBC, also growth parameters showed no significant difference but cost of economics shows significant results.\r\n1. From the view of utilization of easily available byproducts like wheat, jawar, bajra, soybean, feeding homemade concentrate mixture is always beneficial and can be recommended to the goat farmers.\r\n2. From the economics point of view feeding homemade concentrate mixture is beneficial than commercial concentrate.\r\n','-','Sumit Gawali, D. V. Bainwad, Minal Tajne, R.A. Patil and Akanksha Chavan (2023). Effect of Varying Levels of Concentrate Feed Formulation on Cost Structure in Osmanabadi Weaned Kids. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 15(12): 53-56.'),(8094,'163','Studies on the Blood Parameters of Two Indian Air Breathing Fishes - Anabas Testudineus (Bloch, 1785) and Channa marulius (Hamilton, 1822)','Dr. Pabitra Sarmah','Studies-on-the-Blood-Parameters-of-Two-Indian-Air-Breathing-Fishes-Anabas-Testudineus-Bloch-1785-and-Channa-marulius-Hamilton-1822-Pabitra-Sarmah-106.pdf','',1,'The blood parameters like red blood cells count, haemoglobin content, packed cell volume, mean corpuscular value, mean corpuscular haemoglobin concentration and oxygen capacity have been estimated in Anabas testudineus and Channa marulius with a view to correlation of these parameters. In these two species of fishes, the red blood cell counts, haemoglobin content and packed cell volume increase with increasing body weight but these values per gram body weight decrease with increasing body weight but mean corpuscular value, mean corpuscular haemoglobin concentration and mean corpuscular haemoglobin values could not give any specific trend. Statistical relationship between body weight Vs red blood cell counts and haemoglobin content have also been established in these two species of fishes taken into account in the present investigation. In these two cases, the values of correlation coefficient (r) were calculated to be very high which is indicative of the fact that these parameters are highly correlated. Total red blood cell counts, red blood cell counts/g body weight, total haemoglobin content/g body weight, packed cell volume and oxygen capacity values were highest in Anabas testudineus than Channa marulius.','Air breathing fishes, blood parameters, body weight, haemoglobin, oxygen capacity','Studies on blood parameters like RBC counts, haemoglobin content, PCV, MCHC and oxygen capacity etc. have revealed adaptive features correlated with the relative importance of air and water breathing. Purely aquatic breathers have been reported to possess generally lower values of Hb content and oxygen capacity in contrast to the air breathing fishes. Environmental factors play an important role in the physiology of poikilothermic animals. The changes in environmental factors are reflected in haematological parameters and other physiological processes of the body in the animals. The estimation of haematological parameters in animals is of great significance in ascertaining the physiological conditions associated with a loss or gain of fluid by the body. Several environmental, physiological and pathological conditions are responsible for the haematological parameters of animals.','-','Pabitra Sarmah (2023). Studies on the Blood Parameters of Two Indian Air Breathing Fishes - Anabas Testudineus (Bloch, 1785) and Channa marulius (Hamilton, 1822). Biological Forum – An International Journal, 15(5a): 690-694.'),(8095,'170','Genetic Diversity of Cellulolytic Streptomyces spp. Isolated from Decomposing Waste','B.C. Game, V.P. Chimote and S.B. Latake ','Genetic-Diversity-of-Cellulolytic-Streptomyces-spp.-Isolated-from-Decomposing-Waste-BC-Game-11.pdf','',1,'Streptomyces have been reported to exhibit significant genomic divergence and unique metabolic gene content. Present study was designed to explore the genetic diversity in cellulolytic Streptomyces from same natural ecological niche. Nineteen Streptomyces spp. cultures were isolated from decomposing rural and urban wastes collected from different parts of Western Maharashtra. Random amplified polymorphic DNA (RAPD) tool was used for assessment of genetic diversity between cellulolytic Streptomyces isolates. Genomic DNA from 19 isolates and one reference strain were amplified using 16 random primers. The PCR amplification products of the isolates with different primers produced 507 bands out of which 323 were polymorphic, while 127 were unique. Electrophoretic and cluster analysis of the amplification products revealed incidence of polymorphism among the isolates and none of them was identical to the reference strains although there were some common amplification bands. The average polymorphism observed was 98.22%. The genetic similarity index based on the pooled data of RAPD profiles ranged from 0.19 to 0.70. The dendrogram constructed from the pooled data of Streptomyces spp. had two major groups showing wide genetic diversity between isolates. The results highlights RAPD as an efficient method for discriminating and studying genetic diversity among Streptomyces isolates. The protocol was found useful to detect similarities and differences in different isolates but it is not possible to gain further information on the biochemical parameters which are correlated with diversity amongst each other. Further genomic research will help in understanding the actual differences in biochemical parameters, enzyme production levels and functional potential within closely related population.','Streptomyces, genetic diversity, RAPD-PCR, decomposing waste','There was a significant genetic diversity among Streptomyces isolates at genus level though they were from same ecological niche, may be due to the genetic differences in the strains due to differences at species level, differential expression of genes or diversification of metabolism. RAPD PCR protocol was found useful to detect similarities and differences in different isolates. Data generated by RAPD might help in further genomic research on differences in enzyme production levels within closely related population. Further studies can be correlated with the functional potential and genomic diversity within same group of closely related microorganisms. ','-','B.C. Game, V.P. Chimote and S.B. Latake (2023). Genetic Diversity of Cellulolytic Streptomyces spp. Isolated from Decomposing Waste. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 15(11): 57-63.'),(8096,'170','Studies on effect of integrated nutrient management and Spacing on yield of ajowan (Trachyspermum ammi L. Sprague) in Southern zone of Telangana','T. Srikanth, Veena Joshi and D. Lakshminarayana','Studies-on-effect-of-integrated-nutrient-management-and-Spacing-on--yield-of-ajowan-(Trachyspermum-ammi-L.-Sprague)-in-Southern-zone-of-Telangana-T-SRIKANTH-12-5926.pdf','',1,'A field experiment on effect of integrated nutrient management and Spacing on yield attributes of ajowan was conducted at College of Horticulture, Rajendranagar, Hyderabad during late kharif season of 2019-20. The experiment was laid out in a factorial randomized block design with 12 treatments, replicated thrice. The treatments include four Integrated nutrient management levels (INM1, INM2, INM3 and INM4) and three spacings (S1, S2 and S3). The results of present study demonstrated that significantly maximum number of days to 50% flowering (49.79), days to harvest from transplanting (109.56), more number of umbels per plant (226.24), umbellate per umbel (16.70), number of seeds per umbel (159.97) and seeds per umbellate (18.24) was recorded in T3(INM1+ S3). However, the test weight (1.66 g) and seed yield per plant (8.58 g) were found significant and also maximum with the application of T2 (INM1 + S2) while, minimum was noticed in T7 (INM3 + S1). Maximum seed yield per plot (1543.73 g/plant) and seed yield per hectare (2575.03 kg ha-1) were recorded in T1 (INM1+ S1) where as, T9 (INM3+ S3) recorded the minimum.','Umbel, Hectare, Umbellate, seed, spacing, test weight','It is clearly concluded that there is a good scope of increasing crop yields through the use of organic manures, bio-fertilizers with different NPK levels. It is extremely important for sustaining production and improving the fertility of soils. The present study indicated that crop grown with T3 (INM1+ S3) recorded more number of umbels per plant, number of umbellate per umbel, number of seeds per umbel, number of seeds per umbellate due to profuse branching and more number of secondary and primary branches. However, the highest seed yield per plot and per hectare was recorded in T1 (INM1+ S1) due to more population per unit area.','-','T. Srikanth, Veena Joshi and D. Lakshminarayana (2023). Studies on effect of integrated nutrient management and Spacing on yield of ajowan (Trachyspermum ammi L. Sprague) in Southern zone of Telangana. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 15(12): 64-68.'),(8097,'170','Heterosis and Combining Ability Study in Hybrids Developed from A2 Cytoplasm of Cajanus scarabaeoides in Pigeonpea [Cajanus cajan (L.) Millspaugh]','Denish Savaliya, Chirag Chandramaniya, Mukeshkumar Parmar, Manoj C. Suthar, Nileshkumar Tamboli, Hardik H. Patel and D. A. Chauhan','Heterosis-and-combining-ability-study-in-hybrids-developed-from-A2-cytoplasm-of-Cajanus-scarabaeoides-in-pigeonpea-[Cajanus-cajan-(L.)-Millspaugh]-Denish-Savaliya-13.pdf','',1,'The twenty-eight CGMS based pigeonpea [Cajanus cajan (L.) Millsp.] hybrids were examined in the experiment, which involved mating four CMS lines with seven restorer lines in a line by tester mating design evaluated to study heterosis and the combining abilities of hybrids and parents, along with two checks; GT 104 and GTH 1. The mean sum of squares resulting from genotypes was significant for all traits, in accordance with the analysis of variance. It indicates that the parents utilized in hybridization have an appropriate amount of variation. Five cross combinations, viz., GNP 3A × GNPR-20-18, GNP 3A × GNPR-20-10, GNP 4A × GNPR-21-23, GNP 1A × GNPR-20-18, and GNP 4A × GNPR-21-29, manifested significant and positive heterobeltiosis as well as significant standard heterosis over checks GT 104 and GTH 1. The presence of both additive and non-additive gene effects was found by means of combining ability analysis. With the exception of days to 50% flowering, days to maturity, and primary branches per plant, which showed a preponderance of non-additive genetic variation for the inheritance of these traits, the ratio of σ2gca/σ2sca demonstrated that all the characters under consideration showed less than unity. Among parents, GNP 3A and GNPR-20-18 were trustworthy general combiners for yield and other yield related traits among lines. The crosses GNP 4A × GNPR-21-23 and GNP 4A × GNPR-21-29 were found promising hybrids having significant sca effects for seed yield per plant. From the overall study, the crosses GNP 3A × GNPR-20-18, GNP 3A × GNPR-20-10, and GNP 4A × GNPR-21-23 showed higher per se performance along with significant and positive heterobeltiosis, standard heterosis, and a high sca effect for seed yield per plant, which suggested that these hybrids may be used for commercial cultivation. Hybrids with greater sca estimations were the consequence of average × average, good × average, good × good, and average × good general combiners. ','Pigeonpea, Cytoplasmic male sterile hybrids, heterosis and combining ability','In order to potentially increase production through the creation of hybrid cultivars in pigeonpea, heterosis breeding has been employed extensively. The estimates of heterosis for seed yield per plant showed that the five hybrids viz., GNP 3A × GNPR-20-18, GNP 3A × GNPR-20-10, GNP 4A × GNPR-21-23, GNP 1A × GNPR-20-18 and GNP 4A × GNPR-21-29 based on superior parent, standard heterosis, and per se performance, were deemed to be the most promising. Both additive and non-additive gene effects, with non-additive gene effects predominant, had an impact on the inheritance of seed yield and its constituent parts. On the basis of general combining ability the most promising parents identified was GNP 3A, among CMS lines and GNPR-20-18 among R lines. ','-','Denish Savaliya, Chirag Chandramaniya, Mukeshkumar Parmar, Manoj C. Suthar, Nileshkumar Tamboli, Hardik H. Patel and D. A. Chauhan (2023). Heterosis and combining ability study in hybrids developed from A2 cytoplasm of Cajanus scarabaeoides in pigeonpea [Cajanus cajan (L.) Millspaugh]. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 15(12): 69-74.'),(8098,'169','Effect of Pre-harvest Spraying of Insecticides and Botanicals against Pulse Beetle (Callosobruchus spp.) on Storage Chickpea','Raj Laxmi Balmuchu, G.K. Lande and S.K. Bhalkare ','Effect-of-Pre-harvest-Spraying-of-Insecticides-and-Botanicals-against-Pulse-Beetle-(Callosobruchus-spp.)-on-Storage-Chickpea-GK-Lande-95.pdf','',1,'As the infestation of pulse beetle starts from the field, the adult female lays eggs on the maturing pods. It is necessary to manage the pest in the field itself thereby delimiting the damage during storage. In present study efforts were made to identify most economical and feasible insecticides and botanicals for the management of stored grain pest which carry the infestation from field to storage. Field cum-laboratory experiment was conducted to study the effect of pre-harvest spray of insecticides and botanicals for the control of pulse beetle (Callosobruchus spp.) on chickpea at Seed Technology Research Unit, Dr. Panjabrao Deshmukh Krishi Vidyapeeth, Akola, during Rabi 2022. The experiment was laid out in the Factorial Randomized Block Design consisted of 15 treatments and three spraying schedules involving three replications. Number of eggs laid, adult emergence and percent seed damage by beetle differed significantly due to pre-harvest spraying of insecticides and different spraying schedules. The lowest number of eggs laid, adult emergence and percent seed damage was recorded in treatment Lambda-cyhalothrin 5% EC @ 16.6 ml/10 L followed by Indoxacarb 15.80% EC @ 6.6 ml/10 L, Emamectin benzoate 5 SG @ 3 g/10 L. In case of spraying scheduled lowest number of eggs laid, adult emergence and per cent seed damage were recorded in spraying at 50 % pod maturity and pod maturity as compared to others. In interaction effect significantly lowest number of eggs laid, adult emergence and per cent seed damage were recorded in pre-harvest spraying of Lambda-cyhalothrin 5% EC @ 16.6 ml/10 L at 50 % pod maturity and pod maturity stage to check the infestation of pulse beetle during storage up to three months.','Pre-harvest spray, insecticides, chickpea, and pulse beetle','From the above study, it was observed that infestation of pulse beetle in storage chickpea can be reduced by pre-harvest spraying of insecticides and botanicals in the field. Among the various insecticidal treatments, the number of eggs deposited by insects and the number of adult emergence and per cent seed damage were considerably lower in the insecticidal treatment i.e. Lambda-cyhalothrin 5%EC @16.6 ml/10. Spraying insecticides at 50% pod maturity and pod maturity stage (S3) recorded minimum number of eggs laid, number of adult emergence and per- cent seed damage. Treatment combination Lambda-cyhalothrin 5%EC @1 6.6 ml/10 L application at 50% pod maturity and pod maturity stage (T4S3) recorded significantly lower number of eggs, number of adult emergence, and percent seed damage by Callosobruchus spp. ','-','Raj Laxmi Balmuchu, G.K. Lande and S.K. Bhalkare (2023). Effect of Pre-harvest Spraying of Insecticides and Botanicals against Pulse Beetle (Callosobruchus spp.) on Storage Chickpea. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 15(11): 537-542.'),(8099,'169','Profile characteristics of the Beneficiary and Non-beneficiary Farmers of PMKSY','P.S. Latambale, S.B. Bhange, P.B. Kharde and R.G. Ghadge','Profile-characteristics-of-the-Beneficiary-and-Non-beneficiary-Farmers-of-PMKSY-PS-Latambale-96.pdf','',1,'The development of the government\'s many agricultural development programs is correlated with our country\'s progress. Active engagement is required for the implementation of development schemes to be successful. With the aim of increasing water use efficiency in the agricultural sector by promoting appropriate technological interventions like drip and sprinkler irrigation technologies and encouraging farmers to use water-saving and conservation techniques, the Government of India has been implementing the Centrally Sponsored Scheme on Micro Irrigation. The primary goals of PMKSY are to coordinate irrigation investments at the field level, increase cultivable land under guaranteed irrigation, increase adoption of precision irrigation and other water-saving technologies (more crop per drop), improve aquifer recharge, and introduce sustainable water conservation practises by investigating the viability of reusing treated municipal waste water. Respondents were selected from two Tehsils of Jalgaon district namely Rawer and Yawal and two Tehsils of Ahemednagar district namely Parner and Shrigonda. Tehsils and villages were selected purposively based on maximum number of beneficiaries under the scheme. Total of 160 beneficiary farmers and 160 non-beneficiary farmers were selected for study. The total sample size was 320.Primarily socio-economic and personal characteristic of each beneficiaries and non-beneficiaries was considered for the study. According to the study, Majority of beneficiaries were young age (38.75%)and 40.63 per cent non-beneficiaries were middle aged, per cent and 62.50 per cent beneficiaries of PMKSY and non-beneficiaries are having secondary education,78.75 per cent and 71.25 per cent beneficiaries and non-beneficiaries had medium level of farming experience 26 to 40 years, Majority of beneficiaries(46.25%) and non-beneficiaries (49.38%) had medium level of annual income, majority of beneficiaries and non-beneficiaries are under small farmer category i.e. having land 1.01 to 2.00ha, 23.75 per cent and 28.75 per cent of PMKSY beneficiaries and non- beneficiaries had medium. The results also showed that most respondents have medium extension contact, economic motivation and marketing behaviour. The current research is limited by the various issues such as time and other resources were limited because this was a student\'s research. Because the study\'s conclusions are based solely on the replies of 320 respondents, its applicability is restricted. The investigator was compelled to restrict the number of variables used for the study due to time and resource constraints.','PMKSY, beneficiaries, Non-beneficiaries, Agriculture and Micro irrigation','Overall findings of the study stated that majority of beneficiary farmers had up to 35 years age received up to secondary education, were having 25 to 40 years farming experience, medium annual income, small land holders, having medium area under vegetable crop, extension contact, mass media exposure, economic motivation and marketing behaviour is medium level.\r\nMajority of Non- Beneficiaries middle aged, secondary level education, 25 to 40 years farming experience, medium annual income, having land from 1.01 to 2.00ha, medium level of extension contact, economic motivation and marketing behaviour. The empirical findings of the study can produce helping hands for the future researchers, reviewers, policymakers to study impact of the similar type of research. \r\n','-','P.S. Latambale, S.B. Bhange, P.B. Kharde and R.G. Ghadge (2023). Profile characteristics of the Beneficiary and Non-beneficiary Farmers of PMKSY. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 15(11): 543-547.'),(8100,'169','Influence of Foliar Application of Nano-Urea on Morpho-Physiological and Yield Parameters in Rice (Oryza sativa L.)','M.N. Dhawne, G.R. Shamkuwar, S.G. Shamkuwar, Nikita H. Landge, Anjali D. Sable and A.D. Tinpayale ','Influence-of-Foliar-Application-of-Nano-Urea-on-Morpho-Physiological-and-Yield-Parameters-in-Rice-(Oryza-sativa-L.)-M.N-Dhawne-97.pdf','',1,'An experiment was carried in field of Agriculture Research Station, Sakoli, district Bhandara, Maharashtra, India during Kharif 2022-23 season in RBD with PDKV-Sadhana variety, three replication and eleven treatments were taken. The treatment T6 (50:50:50 NPK kg ha-1 as basal dose + 2 foliar sprays of nano urea @ 3 ml l-1 of water at 20 and 40 DAT) was found most effective for increasing the morpho-physiological parameters like plant height, number of tillers per plant, total dry matter production, leaf area per plant, leaf area index and length of flag leaf, while yield and yield attributing characters like total number of grains, length of panicle, number of filled grains, number of unfilled grains, weight of grains panicle-1, number of panicle m-2, grain yield plant-1, grain yield ha-1 over rest of the treatments. NPK consumption ratio has widened from 4:3.2:1 in 2009-10 to 7:2.8:1 in 2019-20, combination of nano urea with basal dose helps in enhancing the productivity of rice without negative influence on plant and the environment.','Nano-urea, Rice, PDKV-Sadhana, foliar application, moprho-physiological','Based on results, application of 50:50:50 NPK kg ha-1 as basal dose + 2 foliar sprays of nano urea @ 3 ml l-1 of water at 20 and 40 DAT recorded higher morpho-physiological, yield and yield contributing characters. From the enlightment of the study, it can be concluded and recommended that application of 50:50:50 NPK kg ha-1 as basal dose + 2 foliar sprays of nano urea @ 3 ml l-1 of water at 20 and 40 DAT could be a viable option for enhancing the productivity of rice without negative influence on plant and the environment.','-','M.N. Dhawne, G.R. Shamkuwar, S.G. Shamkuwar, Nikita H. Landge, Anjali D. Sable and A.D. Tinpayale (2023). Influence of Foliar Application of Nano-Urea on Morpho-Physiological and Yield Parameters in Rice (Oryza sativa L.). Biological Forum – An International Journal, 15(11): 548-553.'),(8101,'158','A Note on Occurrence of an Endangered Plant Cleome rutidosperma var. burmanii from Andaman & Nicobar Islands','C.S. Purohit and Lal Ji Singh','8_JNBR 31122023.pdf','',1,'Cleome rutidosperma DC. var. burmanii (Wt. & Arn.) Siddiqui & Dixit. (Cleomace), collected from Shadipur, Port Blair, South Andaman, India is reported as extended distribution and first time herbarium collection for flora of Andaman and Nicobar Islands. The description, images and other relevant details have been provided in this paper.','Extended distribution, Cleome rutidosperma, burmanii, endangered','-','-','Purohit CS, Singh L J. 2023. A note on occurrence of an endangered plant Cleome rutidosperma var. burmanii from Andaman & Nicobar Islands. J New Biol Rep 12 (1): 41 – 44.'),(8102,'158','A Note on Occurrence of an Endangered Plant Cleome rutidosperma var. burmanii from Andaman & Nicobar Islands','C.S. Purohit1* and Lal Ji Singh2','8_JNBR_31_12_2023.pdf','',1,'Cleome rutidosperma DC. var. burmanii (Wt. & Arn.) Siddiqui & Dixit. (Cleomace), collected from Shadipur, Port Blair, South Andaman, India is reported as extended distribution and first time herbarium collection for flora of Andaman and Nicobar Islands. The description, images and other relevant details have been provided in this paper.','Extended distribution, Cleome rutidosperma, burmanii, endangered.',' ','Babu CR and Majumdar NC 1974. Taxonomic notes\r\non Cleome aspera Koen. Ex DC., C. burmanii\r\nWt. & Arn. and C. rutidosperma DC.\r\n(CLEOMACEAE). J Bombay Nat His. So.\r\n71(3): 629 – 632.\r\nGamble JS 1915. Fl. Pres. Madras 1: 41. 1915 (repr.\r\nEd. 1: 29. 1957).\r\nHazara PK, Rao PSN and Mudgal V (Eds.) 1999.\r\nFlora of Andaman – Nicobar Islands\r\n(Ranunculaceae – Commbretaceae), Botanical\r\nSurvey of India Calcatta, Vol.1: 1-487.\r\nHooker JD and Thomson T 1872. “Capparidaceae” in\r\nJ.D. Hooker’s The Flora of British India, 1:\r\n170. London.\r\nMukherjee P.K. 1963. Cleome rutidosperma DC. a\r\nnew record for India. Indian forester 95(4):\r\n237.\r\nMurugan C, Prabhu S, Sathiyaseelan R and Pandey\r\nRP 2016. A Checklist of Plants of Andaman\r\nand Nicobar Islands. ENVIS Centre on Floral\r\nDiversity. Botanical Survey of India, Kolkata.\r\nhttp://bsienvis.nic.in/Database/Checklist-ofAndaman-Nicobar-Islands_24427.aspx\r\nNayar MP and Sastry ARK 1988. Red Data Book of\r\nIndian Plants = Cleome burmanni Wight &\r\nArn. Vol. 2, page-84.\r\nNicolson DH 1987. Araceae. A Revised Handbook to\r\nthe Flora of Ceylon. In: M.D. Dassanayake and\r\nF.R. Fosberg (eds). Araceae.6:34-37, Oxford &\r\nIBH publishing Co. Pvt. Ltd., India.\r\nPandey RP and Diwakar PG 2008. An integrated\r\nchecklist of plants in Andaman & Nicobar\r\nIslands, India. J. Econ. Taxon. Bot. 32: 403–\r\n500.\r\nPurohit CS, Vivek CP and Singh LJ. 2022. Lasia\r\n(Arecaceae): A generic addition to the Flora of\r\nAndaman & Nicobar Islands, India.\r\nPhytotaxonomy. 21: 28-31.\r\nPurohit CS, Singh LJ, Vivek CP, Dey BC 2023a. A\r\nfinal project report on Ecological Niche\r\nmodeling including GIS mapping of Endemic\r\ntree species of Andaman & Nicobar Islands,\r\nsubmitted to Director, Botanical Survey of\r\nIndia, Kolkata on Apirl, 2023.\r\nPurohit CS, Vivek CP, Dey BC and Singh LJ 2023b.\r\nHygrophila auriculata (Acanthaceae): A new\r\naddition for Flora of Andaman & Nicobar\r\nIslands. J New Biol Rep 12(1): 5 – 8.\r\nRaghavan RS 1984. On Cleome burmanni Wight &\r\nArn. (CAPPARACEAE), its identity and\r\ndistribution. J Econ Taxon Bot 5(2): 463 – 466.\r\nShah GL 1978. Flora of Gujarat 1: 71. Sardar Patel\r\nUniversity, Gujarat.\r\nSiddiqui MO and Dixit SN 1974. The taxonomic\r\nstatus of Cleome burmanii Wt. & Arn. Pl. Sci.\r\n(Lucknow) 6: 67 – 69.\r\nSingh LJ, Murugan C and Singh P 2014. Plant\r\nGenetic Diversity of Endemic Species in the\r\nAndaman and Nicobar Islands – In: Nat. Conf.\r\nOn Islands Biodiversity, U. P. State\r\nBiodiversity Board, Lucknow 49-57.\r\nSingh LJ, Ranjan V, Sinha BK, Mishra S, Purohit CS,\r\nVivek CP, Naik MC and Ekka GA 2021. An\r\nOverview of Phytodiversity of the Andaman\r\nand Nicobar Islands, India. vol.2: 381- 399 (In:\r\neds. Singh, L.J. & Ranjan, V., New Vistas in\r\nIndian Flora. Bishen Singh Mahendra Pal\r\nSingh, Dehra Dun, India.\r\nSinha BK 1999. In Hazara P.K. and P.S.N. Rao (eds)\r\nFlora of Great Nicobar Islands, Botanical\r\nSurvey of India Calcatta.','Purohit CS, Singh L J. 2023. A note on occurrence of an endangered plant Cleome rutidosperma var. burmanii from Andaman & Nicobar Islands. J New Biol Rep 12 (1): 41 – 44.'),(8103,'169','Content Analysis of Agriculture YouTube Channels in Tamil Nadu','C.K. Nivedha, N. Sriram and P. Balasubramaniam ','Content-Analysis-of-Agriculture-YouTube-Channels-in-Tamil-Nadu-CK-Nivedha-98.pdf','',1,'Social media is now a mainstream form of communication around the world, and continues to grow in popularity with the increase in the number of smart phones. There are 4.62 billion social media users around the world in January 2022. The agricultural sector is using social media to promote relevant information and to network with other like-minded agricultural professionals. Content analysis is a qualitative research tool or technique that is used widely to analyze the content and its features. YouTube is the 2nd largest search engine and 3rd most visited site on the web. Tamil Agriculture YouTube Channels was purposefully selected based on the number of subscribers. The research was guided by Goffman’s framing theory to guide the analysis and categorization of visual framing for vlog and video media. Framing theory investigates how a message is presented or told to a specific audience. This study sought to explore how farm vlogs are creating user-generated content to share information through YouTube videos, to identify the Top 5 Agriculture YouTube channels views, like and comment and duration of videos in the past three years. This study confirmed that content provided in the YouTube channel should be validated before to release. Content and quality of the information in farming YouTube videos needs to be improved with input from professionals. ','YouTube, Videos, Content, Quality, Agriculture, Validation, Duration','YouTube is popular video sharing site used in worldwide. The popularity YouTube has been increasing rapidly in the world. YouTube site is freely accessible by every category of peoples and used this site for his/her own needs. This study confirmed that content provided in the YouTube channel should be validated before to release. Regarding the quality aspect, video clarity should be improved. Most of the channels are providing some out of theme content, therefore irrelevant content should be avoiding. Content and quality of the information in farming YouTube videos needs to be improved with input from professionals. the study analyzed videos on likes, comments, views, duration of videos. The filtering algorithms on video platforms need to be improved so that high-quality videos are given preference while searching. The study performed on contents during specific period. It may get changed.','-','C.K. Nivedha, N. Sriram and P. Balasubramaniam (2023). Content Analysis of Agriculture YouTube Channels in Tamil Nadu. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 15(11): 554-557.'),(8104,'169','Studies on the Effect of Locally Available Acidifiers on Extension of Vase Life of Cut Tuberose (Polianthes tuberosa L.) Cv. Arka Prajwal','Anusha Tanniru, G. Jyothi, P. Prasanth, K. Kaladhar Babu and Ch. Rajagoud','Studies-on-the-Effect-of-Locally-Available-Acidifiers-on-Extension-of-Vase-Life-of-Cut-Tuberose-(Polianthes-tuberosa-L.)-Cv.-Arka-Prajwal-Anusha-Tanniru-99.pdf','',1,'The experiment entitled studies on the effect of locally available acidifiers on extension of vase life of cut tuberose (Polianthes tuberosa L.) Cv. Arka prajwal was conducted at floricultural laboratory, college of Horticulture, Rajendra nagar during 2022-2023. The experiment was laid out in completely randomized design. The treatments consist of citric acid (200 ppm, 300 ppm), lime juice (5ml, 10ml) and Ascorbic acid (200 ppm, 300 ppm) and control Distilled water. Maximum water uptake (24.66, 18.53, 12.51 g), transpirational loss of water (21.64, 16.44, 10.59), water balance (8.02, 7.09, 6.91 g), fresh weight change (103.71, 94.28, 89.18%), low optical density (0.040, 0.048, 0.054 nm), minimum days to first floret opening (1.28 days), maximum days to longevity of basal floret (2.64 days), highest vase life (9.89 days), floret opening percentage (80.83) and least microbial count in vase solution( 4.32 ×10-5) were all recorded at 200 ppm of citric acid when compared to other treatments. The results revealed that citric acid @ 200 ppm may be used to enhance the vase life of cut tuberose Cv. Arka Prajwal.','Tuberose, acidifiers, citric acid, vase life','It can be concluded from the present investigation that among all the locally available acidifier treatments studied in the prolonging of vase life of cut tuberose, T1 citric acid 200 ppm was resulted significantly maximum water uptake (24.66,18.53,12.51g), transpiration loss of water (21.64, 16.44, 10.59 g), water balance (8.02, 7.09, 6.91g), fresh weight change ( 103.71, 94.28, 89.18 %) low optical density of vase solution (0.040, 0.048, 0.054 nm), minimum days for first floret opening (1.28 days), highest longevity of basal floret (2.64 days), Maximum vase life (9.89 days) and floret opening percentage (80.83 %), minimum microbial count in vase solution (4.32 ×10-5) from 2nd day to 6th day of vase life studies of cut tuberose when compared to other treatments. Henceforth this treatment can be used as acidifier in vase solution alternative to chemical preservatives.','-','Anusha Tanniru, G. Jyothi, P. Prasanth, K. Kaladhar Babu and Ch. Rajagoud (2023). Studies on the Effect of Locally Available Acidifiers on Extension of Vase Life of Cut Tuberose (Polianthes tuberosa L.) Cv. Arka Prajwal. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 15(11): 558-563.'),(8105,'169','The Impact of Conditioning Periods and Rock Phosphate on Phosphorus Enrichment, Total Nutrient Content and Microbial Count in Compost','Sonali Chaudhari and Vallabh Zinzala','The Impact of Conditioning Periods and Rock Phosphate on Phosphorus Enrichment, Total Nutrient Content and Microbial Count in Compost-Sonali Chaudhari-100.pdf','',1,'A field experiment was conducted at the College Farm, N. M. College of Agriculture, Navsari Agricultural University, Navsari (Gujarat) during the years 2021 and 2022. The experiment was laid out in completely randomizes design for preparing phosphorus enriched compost. Treatments including E1: Only Compost, E2: Compost + 400% RDP of rice through rock phosphate and E3: Compost + 600% RDP of rice through rock phosphate, were enriched for 20, 40 and 60 days. Periodical changes and tabular analysis worked out for solubility of phosphorus and total nutrient content in different interval as well as total microbial count from the enriched compost. The treatments for compost enrichment including T1: 0 days conditioned compost, T2: 0 days conditioned 400% RDP compost, T3: 0 days conditioned 600% RDP compost, T4: 20 days conditioned compost, T5: 20 days conditioned 400% RDP compost, T6: 20 days conditioned 600% RDP compost, T7: 40 days conditioned compost, T8: 40 days conditioned 400% RDP compost, T9: 40 days conditioned 600% RDP compost, T10: 60 days conditioned compost, T11: 60 days conditioned 400% RDP compost and T12: 60 days conditioned 600% RDP compost. The experiment was conducted for two consecutive years. Based on the results of two years experimentation, it can be concluded that rock phosphate enriched compost is proven to alternative with chemical phosphatic fertilizers. Enriched compost for 40-60 days with 600 % RDP through rock phosphate, enhanced water-soluble phosphorus, ensured total nutrient levels and fostered a thriving microbial environment.','Conditioning periods, Enrichment, Rock phosphate, Solubility of phosphorus, Total nutrient content and Total microbial count','The findings of two year compost enrichment experiments indicate that to achieving increased water-soluble phosphorus and total nutrient levels (nitrogen and phosphorus), compost required to enriched for 40-60 days with 600 % RDP through rock phosphate, PSB and Azotobacter. While in case of higher total potassium and maximizing microbial populations (PSB, Azotobacter and total microbial population), compost required to conditioning with 600% RDP through rock phosphate for duration of 60 days.','-','Sonali Chaudhari and Vallabh Zinzala (2023). The Impact of Conditioning Periods and Rock Phosphate on Phosphorus Enrichment, Total Nutrient Content and Microbial Count in Compost. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 15(11): 564-573.'),(8106,'169','Variability and Heritability Studies in Bittergourd (Momordica charantia. L) Genotypes','Syama S. Thampi and Sarada S.','Variability-and-Heritability-Studies-in-Bittergourd-(Momordica-charantia.-L)-Genotypes-Syama-S-Thampi-101.pdf','',1,'The modern breeding programmes depends mostly on creating genetic variability along with simple selection and utilization of that variation present in selected genotypes to generate new breeding materials with traits of interest. Genetic variability among traits is essential for any crop improvement programme and in selecting desirable genetic material. The present investigation was undertaken to study the Variability and heritability studies in bitter gourd (Momordica charantia. L) genotypes. Field evaluation of six bittrgourd genotypes was conducted at the Department of Vegetable Science, College of Agriculture, Vellayani during June to September 2022. The genetic parameters such as component of variance, heritability, genetic advance, correlation and path analysis were studied. Maximum variation was observed for yield per plot (38.36% and 37.81%) followed by fruit length (27.34% and 27.11%) and fruit diameter (26.90% and 26.67%). The heritability estimates of all the traits ranged from 0.82 to 0.99, which indicates the influence of additive gene effect on the expression of traits in bitter gourd. The highest genetic advance was observed for yield per plot (76.76%), followed by fruit length (55.37%) and fruit diameter (54.45%). Yield per plot showed significant and positive genotypic and phenotypic correlation with yield per plant (0.97 and 0.95 respectively), fruit weight (0.89 and 0.85 respectively) and fruit length (0.94 and 0.91 respectively). High heritability, high genetic advance and high GCV values showed that the expression of different traits in bittergourd was less influenced by environmental factors and are controlled by additive genetic effects. Therefore simple selection is adequate in the crop improvement programme for the development of elite genotype.','Bittergourd, GCV, PCV, Correlation, Path analysis and Heritability','The phenotypic coefficient of variation was found to be slightly higher than genotypic coefficient of variation. This provides better scope for crop improvement programme in bittergourd. Heritability and genetic advance of almost all the characters are higher, which indicates the additive genetic effect of the inherited characters. Genotypic correlation was higher than the phenotypic correlation, except for days to first female flowering. This suggested the greater effectiveness of selection due to the less influence of environment. Path analysis showed that the fruit length was having higher positive direct effect on yield. ','-','Syama S. Thampi and Sarada S. (2023). Variability and Heritability Studies in Bittergourd (Momordica charantia. L) Genotypes. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 15(11): 574-577.'),(8107,'170','Bio-efficacy of Newer Insecticides against Leafhopper (Empoasca flavescens) of Castor (Ricinus communis Linneaus)','D.M. Chaudhary, P.S. Patel, D.H. Padhiyar, M.K. Chandaragi, P.K. Thakar and C.S. Barad','Bio-efficacy-of-Newer-Insecticides-against-Leafhopper-(Empoasca-flavescens)-of-Castor-(Ricinus-communis-Linneaus)-DM-Chaudhary-14.pdf','',1,'Given the substantial role of leafhoppers (E. flavescens) in causing large-scale grain yield losses, the present field experiments on bio-efficacy of newer insecticides against leafhopper of castor (Ricinus communis Linnaeus) were carried out on Agronomy Instructional Farm, C. P. College of Agriculture, S. D. Agricultural University, Sardarkrushinagar during kharif, 2021-22 and 2022-23, aiming to provide valuable insights into their effectiveness in managing leafhoppers and addressing the challenges associated with pest-induced losses in castor cultivation. Among the various insecticides tested, flonicamid 50 WG was found the most effective insecticide against leafhopper. Highest (1:21.56) protection cost: benefit ratio obtained when castor plots was treated with flonicamid 50 WG.','Castor, newer insecticides, bio-efficacy, leafhopper','Based on the findings of the current investigation, the newer insecticides, specifically flonicamid 50 WG and spinosad 45 SC, demonstrated superior efficacy compared to the standard insecticides currently recommended for managing leafhoppers in the castor ecosystem. The highest protection cost: benefit ratio (1:21.56) was achieved when castor plots were treated with flonicamid 50 WG. ','-','D.M. Chaudhary, P.S. Patel, D.H. Padhiyar, M.K. Chandaragi, P.K. Thakar and C.S. Barad (2023). Bio-efficacy of Newer Insecticides Against Leafhopper (Empoasca flavescens) of Castor (Ricinus communis Linneaus). Biological Forum – An International Journal, 15(12): 75-80.'),(8108,'165','Predicting the Frequency of Transgressive RILs and determining the Minimum Population Size required for their Recovery in Dolichos bean (Lablab purpureus L. Sweet)','M.P. Kalpana, M. Kemparaju, C.B. Siddu and G. Basanagouda ','Predicting-the-Frequency-of-Transgressive-RILs-and-determining-the-Minimum-Population-Size-required-for-their-Recovery-in-Dolichos-bean-(Lablab-purpureus-L.-Sweet)-MP-Kalpana-188.pdf','',1,'Dolichos bean var. lignosus is one of the important and ancient food legumes extensively grown in southern India. It is commonly known as ‘hyacinth bean’, ‘field bean’, ‘Indian bean’, etc. It is a self-pollinated crop with 2n=22 chromosomes and genome size of 367 Mbp. Efficiency in breeding self-pollinated crops like dolichos bean can be significantly improved by directing resources towards a select few segregating populations with the potential to yield a high frequency of transgressive Recombinant Inbred Lines (RILs) for use as pure-line cultivars. The utilization of an objective criterion for identifying promising segregating populations becomes crucial in this context. One such criterion involves predicting the frequency of transgressive RILs that could emerge from advanced generations of crosses within segregating populations. In our study, we predicted the occurrence of RILs surpassing the performance of the better parent (HA 10-2). This prediction was based on the genetic diversity between two elite parent lines, HA 10-8 and HA 10-2, specifically for grain yield, using estimations of mid parental value [m], additive genetic effects [a], and additive genetic variance [σ2A]. Remarkably, the minimum population size required for the recovery of transgressive RILs was relatively smaller, indicating the feasibility of this approach.','Additive effects, transgressive RILs, better parent, grain yield','The study, predicted the occurrence of RILs surpassing the performance of the better parent (HA 10-2). This prediction was based on the genetic diversity between two elite parent lines, HA 10-8 and HA 10-2, specifically for grain yield, using estimations of mid parental value [m], additive genetic effects [a], and additive genetic variance [σ2A]. Remarkably, the minimum population size required for the recovery of transgressive RILs was relatively smaller, indicating the feasibility of this approach.','-','M.P. Kalpana, M. Kemparaju, C.B. Siddu and G. Basanagouda (2023). Predicting the Frequency of Transgressive RILs and determining the Minimum Population Size required for their Recovery in Dolichos bean (Lablab purpureus L. Sweet). Biological Forum – An International Journal, 15(9): 1084-1088.'),(8109,'169','Constraints Faced by Sorghum Variety Parbhani Shakti Adopter and Non-adopter in Parbhani District of Maharashtra State','Vishal M. Kamble, Digamber S. Perke and Dheeraj T. Pathrikar ','Constraints-Faced-by-Sorghum-Variety-Parbhani-Shakti-Adopter-and-Non-adopter-in-Parbhani-District-of-Maharashtra-State-Vishal-M-Kamble-102.pdf','',1,'Sorghum (Sorghum bicolor [L.] Moench, Poaceaea family) (2n = 20) is the 5th most important cereal crop. It is an important grain and forage crop of semiarid regions due to its high adaptability and suitability to rainfed. Farmers grew sorghum for themselves, using the grain for food and the plant for fodder and many farmers prefer to purchase the meagre amounts of sorghum they now need. There are various reasons for this like shortage of labour at the time of harvesting, high labour cost, high cost of input, weed infestation and yield loss due to climate. Therefore, the present study has been taken up to analyse the constraints from the farmers perspective. The study was conducted in Parbhani district of Maharashtra state and the obtained data were analysed by using Garrett ranking technique. The study revealed that the major constraints perceived by the adopter among all listed constraints were high labour cost, shortage of labour, high cost of input, weed infestation and yield loss due to climate. In addition to this, lack of high-quality improved varieties and lack of knowledge about market information was one of important problem for non-adopter. ','Constraints, adopter, non-adopter, Garrett ranking','Constraints were reported by the adopter and non-adopter farmers, in which high labour cost, shortage of labour, high cost of input, weed infestation and yield loss due to climate were the major constraints noted by adopter. In addition to this, lack of high-quality improved varieties and lack of knowledge about market information was one of important problem for non-adopter. High labour cost and shortage of labour was found the major constraints faced by farmers often leading to policies aimed at mechanization, automation, and the adoption of agricultural technologies. Governments might provide subsidies or incentives for farmers to invest in machinery, promote the use of advanced farming techniques like precision agriculture, and support research into labour-saving innovations. ','-','Vishal M. Kamble, Digamber S. Perke and Dheeraj T. Pathrikar (2023). Constraints Faced by Sorghum Variety Parbhani Shakti Adopter and Non-adopter in Parbhani District of Maharashtra State. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 15(11): 578-580.'),(8110,'169','Management of Macrophomina stem blight and dry root rot diseases in pigeonpea caused by Macrophomina phaseolina (Tassi) Goid ','Rahul Gadde, Mallikarjun Kenganal, Gururaj, S., Yenjerappa S.T. and Muniswamy S.','Management-of-Macrophomina-stem-blight-and-dry-root-rot-diseases-in-pigeonpea-caused-by-Macrophomina-phaseolina-(Tassi)-Goid--Rahul-Gadde-103.pdf','',1,'In recent years Macrophomina stem blight and dry root rot diseases have become major constraints in successful and profitable cultivation of pigeonpea caused by Macrophomina phaseolina (Tassi) Goid. Increasing dry spells and droughts during pigeonpea cultivation has widen the scop for infection and spread of these diseases very rapidly than ever. There are no resistant cultivars available for cultivation among the cultivated gene pool. In such cases, suitable management become very essential. In absence of host resistance, the efficacy of different fungicides and bioagents was evaluated in field during kharif-2022 for management of both stem blight and dry root diseases. Among the tested treatments, T9 consisting of seed treatment, soil drenching and foliar spray with Trichoderma asperellum + Pseudomonas fluroscence (5gm/kg, 5gm/lit) recorded significantly lowest mean disease incidence (2.77 %) followed by T4, ST + foliar spray and drenching with Carbendazim 12WP + Mancozeb 63WP (5.85 %) whereas, T8 (ST + foliar spray and drenching with Carbendazim 50WP)and T6 (ST + foliar spray and drenching with Thiophanate methyl 70WP) recorded on par mean disease incidence. Maximum per cent disease incidence was observed in untreated control (34.39 %) followed by T2, ST + foliar spray and drenching with copper oxychloride 50WP (19.13 %) plot. Benefit cost ratio was derived for the treatments evaluated and results revealed that highest BCR was observed in T9 (2.24) followed by T4 (1.90). Lowest benefit cost was obtained from T5 (0.12) followed by control (0.18). After calculating the benefit-cost ratio for each of the treatments under consideration, the findings showed that T9 had the greatest BCR (2.24), followed by T4 (1.90), while T5 had the lowest benefit cost (0.12), with control coming in second (0.18).','Bio-controls, fungicides, Macrophomina stem blight, Dry root rot, Disease management','The findings of the present study are very promising in reducing the wilt incidence caused by stem blight and dry root rot. The seed treatment with biocontrol agents protected the seeds against fungal pathogen infections during seed germination and seedling stage. Further foliar spray of biocontrol agents prevented the fresh infections by the target pathogens on stem and on roots until the crop is harvested. ','-','Rahul Gadde, Mallikarjun Kenganal, Gururaj, S., Yenjerappa S.T. and Muniswamy S. (2023). Management of Macrophomina stem blight and dry root rot diseases in pigeonpea caused by Macrophomina phaseolina (Tassi) Goid. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 15(11): 581-585.'),(8111,'169','Soil Characterization and Classification of Biofuel Park, Tinthani, Yadgiri District, Karnataka by using Geospatial Techniques','Sowjanya T., Narayana Rao K., Rajesh N. L., Sharan Bhoopal Reddy and Shyam Rao Kulkarni ','Soil-Characterization-and-Classification-of-Biofuel-Park-Tinthani-Yadgiri-District-Karnataka-by-using-Geospatial-Techniques-Sowjanya T-104.pdf','',1,'A study was conducted to assess the soil characterization of Biofuel park, Tinthani, Yadgiri district, Karnataka, India. Satellite imageries were downloaded from Arc GIS base map and delineated block boundaries using Arc GIS 10.8. Five soil profiles were opened to study the morphological, physical and chemical properties of soil profiles. The entire Biofuel park had gentle sloping (3-5 %) and the soil depth was shallow (25-50 cm) to moderately shallow (50-70 cm) with sandy clay loamy texture. The consistency was slightly hard, frim, non-sticky and non-plastic in surface while it was hard, firm, non-sticky and non-plastic in sub surface horizons. ','Soil characterization, Biofuel Park, GIS','Spatial interpretation of satellite imagery for generation of soil physiography units which will facilitate identifying profile locations in the study area. This had improved the accuracy of soil classification considering slope, parent material and colour of the soil as properties. The permanent GIS data base with soil information will be a base for strategic crop plan and to update and map the changes in the Biofuel park. ','-','Sowjanya T., Narayana Rao K., Rajesh N. L., Sharan Bhoopal Reddy and Shyam Rao Kulkarni (2023). Soil Characterization and Classification of Biofuel Park, Tinthani, Yadgiri District, Karnataka by using Geospatial Techniques. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 15(11): 586-590.'),(8112,'170','In vitro Bioefficacy of Fungal Endophytes against Rhizoctonia bataticola (Taub). Butler causing Dry Root Rot of Chickpea ','S. S. Kadam, D. G. Hingole, S. N. Banne, J. B. Bhalerao and G. Leona','In-vitro-Bioefficacy-of-Fungal-Endophytes-against-Rhizoctonia-bataticola-(Taub).-Butler-causing-Dry-Root-Rot-of-Chickpea-SS-Kadam-15.pdf','',1,'Dry root rot of chickpea is an emerging disease posing threat to chickpea cultivation around the world. It is caused by the soil borne pathogen Rhizoctonia bataticola. The current study was conducted to investigate the potential of employing endophytic microorganisms that are antagonistic to R. bataticola to manage dry root rot. A total of 20 fungal endophytes were isolated from healthy chickpea plant (roots, stem and leaves). The isolated fungal endophytes were tested against R. bataticola by dual culture technique under in vitro conditions. Among all Trichoderma asperellum (CLEF18) exhibited the maximum inhibition of test pathogen, followed by Aspergillus fumigatus (CREF4) and Acremonium sp. (CREF1). The least mycelial inhibition of R. bataticola was observed in Colletotrichum sp. (CLEF6), followed by Rhizoctonia sp. (CREF17). These endophytes thus; could be efficient biological control agent in sustainable crop production and offer unique opportunity for crop protection and biological control.','Dry root rot, Endophytes, Inhibition, Rhizoctonia bataticola, in vitro','The chickpea endophytic microbes viz., Trichoderma asperellum (CLEF18), Aspergillus fumigatus (CREF4) and Acremonium sp. (CREF1) showed the significant inhibition of mycelial growth of pathogen. This is a novel and preliminary research on chickpea endophytes as biocontrol agent against Rhizoctonia bataticola. Endophytic strains as they possible dual ability of antagonizing fungal pathogen and plant growth promotion; with the view of plant health and productivity. Therefore, these promising endophytes as a bio-control agents can be used as a component in the integrated disease management for enhancing crop productivity and for safe, eco-friendly and for sustainable management of this economically important disease.','-','S. S. Kadam, D. G. Hingole, S. N. Banne, J. B. Bhalerao and G. Leona (2023). In vitro Bioefficacy of Fungal Endophytes against Rhizoctonia bataticola (Taub). Butler causing Dry Root Rot of Chickpea. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 15(12): 81-85.'),(8113,'169','Prevalence of Sheath Rot of Rice caused by Sarocladium oryzae in Konkan Region and its Pathogenic variability','Sahane P.A., Pushpa Patil, Gadhave A.D., Rite S.C. and Pawar H.D.','Prevalence-of-Sheath-Rot-of-Rice-caused-by-Sarocladium-oryzae-in-Konkan-Region-and-its-Pathogenic-variability-Sahane-PA-105.pdf','',1,'Rice sheath rot caused by Sarocladium oryzae is an emerging fungal disease that is spreading over rice growing areas in Konkan region of Maharashtra. Roving survey was carried out on farmer’s field in different districts of the Konkan region during the Kharif, 2021 and Kharif, 2022 to assess the disease incidence of sheath rot of rice. The disease was widespread in all the surveyed locations, with varying levels of incidence during both the years. In all, number of fields were surveyed from five districts where different rice varieties were grown by the farmers. Among villages surveyed, highest disease incidence (53.33 % and 51.51 %) was recorded in Pavas village from Ratnagiri district and the lowest disease incidence (6.25 % and 5.71 %) was recorded in Lohare village from Raigad district during Kharif, 2021 and Kharif, 2022, respectively. Diseased samples were collected during the survey from various locations and twenty isolates of Sarocladium oryzae causing sheath rot were isolated. All twenty isolates of S. oryzae exhibited a wide range of pathogenic variability. Among the twenty isolates of S. oryzae, isolate So2 exhibited minimum incubation period (5 days), maximum lesion length (28.55 mm) and highest per cent disease severity (39.81 %) followed by So12 (6 days, 27.10 mm and 36.10 %) while maximum incubation period was observed in isolate So7 (13 days) and So8 (13 days), least lesion length and per cent disease severity was observed in isolate So7 (20.65 mm and 12.03 %), respectively.','Sarocladium oryzae, Rice, Disease Incidence','Conducting roving survey is very much important to know the extent of disease causing in a particular area. On the basis of this study, it is concluded that, sheath rot of rice which is considered as a minor disease is going to be one of the major disease of rice in Konkan region over the time. S. oryzae possesses wide range of variation with respect to morphological, cultural and pathogenic behaviour. Isolate So2 was found to be most virulent with minimum incubation period (5 days), maximum lesion length (28.55 mm) and highest per cent disease severity (39.81 %). ','-','Sahane P.A., Pushpa Patil, Gadhave A.D., Rite S.C. and Pawar H.D. (2023). Prevalence of Sheath Rot of Rice caused by Sarocladium oryzae in Konkan Region and its Pathogenic variability. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 15(11): 591-598.'),(8114,'167','An Analysis of Blood Flow through Constricted Arteries','Neha Phogat, Sumeet Gill and Rajbala Rathee','An-Analysis-of-Blood-Flow-through-Constricted-Arteries-Neha-Phogat-18.pdf','',1,'The circulatory system, a marvel of biological engineering, is essential for sustaining life. At the heart of this intricate system lies the arterial network, responsible for delivering oxygenated blood to vital organs and tissues. However, this system is not without its vulnerabilities. Arterial constrictions, whether due to atherosclerosis, plaque build-up, or other factors, can significantly impede blood flow, potentially leading to serious health complications. Understanding the intricate structure and function of arteries is fundamental to appreciating how constrictions within these vessels can significantly impact blood flow. This paper reviews the existing literature on about this interplay and emphasizes on the existing research gaps.','Atherosclerosis, arterial constriction, blood flow, arteries','The review enables us to investigate how variations in parameters affect the rheological properties of blood and, consequently, the flow patterns in stenosed tubes. Such investigations offer valuable insights into the factors governing blood behaviour in complex geometries. However, there are existing gaps in analysing the blood flow through constricted arteries and how the complexities in flow behaviour could impact the health at microstructure levels.','-','-'),(8115,'169','Impact of CROPSAP Scheme on Cotton Growers: A Probit Regression Approach','Prachi D. Undirwade, R.V. Chavan and S.V. Bharti ','Impact-of-CROPSAP-Scheme-on-Cotton-Growers-A-Probit-Regression-Approach-Prachi-D-Undirwade-106.pdf','',1,'In the present study economic impact of CROPSAP scheme on beneficiary and non-beneficiary cotton growers have been assessed. This was based mainly on primary data which was collected through personal interview method with the help of pre-tested schedules. An investigation was conducted in the Jalna district of Maharashtra state purposively on the basis of 2nd highest area under cotton crop. Multistage sampling technique was used for selection of district, tehsils and villages. Total sample size was 160 where 80 was beneficiary and 80 non-beneficiary cotton growers. Probit regression model was fitted to access the impact of CROPSAP scheme on beneficiary and non-beneficiary cotton growers. CROPSAP provide a larger canvas for pest management implementation in term of technological use, number of stakeholders, number of crops, area covered, skill imparted and employment generated. The pest affected area across cotton is implemented with scientifically based pest management practice across Maharashtra state of jalna district. In view of limited time, resources, the study is restricted to certain variables which may have influences on impact of Crop Pest Surveillance and advisory project on farmers. Application of only recommended pesticides at right dosages using proper application equipment and technique have brought in judicious use of chemical and reduces the occupational hazards. Probit model is a way to perform regression for binary outcome variable with two possibilities like beneficiary and non-beneficiary of cotton growers. In probit regression model factors like X2 (spacing) was significant at 1 per cent level, X4 (plant protection under CROPSAP) was also significant at 1 per cent level, and factor X6 (Yield) significant at 10 per cent level. Hence this result indicated that the above significant factors are greatly influenced on farmers towards adoption of the CROPSAP scheme. Our result show that the CROPSAP scheme is helpful to increase the income level of cotton growers and it is also helpful in future to increase the income level and reduce losses of crops which are affected by insect/pest.','Cotton, beneficiary and non-beneficiary, Jalna, CROPSAP scheme, Probit model','In probit regression model factors like X2 (spacing) was significant at 1 per cent level, X4 (Plant protection under CROPSAP) was also significant at 1 per cent level, and factor X6 (Yield) significant at 10 per cent level. Hence this result indicates that the above significant factors are greatly influenced on cotton growers towards adoption of CROPSAP scheme. The above result indicates that the proper spacing and use of plant protection recommended by CROPSAP helps to increase the yield and reduce the overuse of plant protection.','-','Prachi D. Undirwade, R.V. Chavan and S.V. Bharti (2023). Impact of CROPSAP Scheme on Cotton Growers: A Probit Regression Approach. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 15(11): 599-601.'),(8116,'169','Effect of Green Manure and Nutrient Management on Castor (Ricinus communis L.) Nutrient Content and Soil Fertility','H.N. Chaudhary, B. J. Prajapati, C.K. Patel, K.V. Chaudhary and V.B. Gohil ','Effect-of-Green-Manure-and-Nutrient-Management-on-Castor-(Ricinus-communis-L.)-Nutrient-Content-and-Soil-Fertility-HN-Chaudhary-107.pdf','',1,'A field experiment was conducted at Agronomy Instructional Farm, Chimanbhai Patel College of Agriculture, Sardarkrushinagar Dantiwada Agricultural University, Sardarkrushinagar, Gujarat during the two consecutive kharif seasons of the years 2020-21 and 2021-22 on “Effect of Integrated Nutrient Management on nutrient content of Castor (Ricinus Communis L.) and soil fertility”. There were twenty treatment combinations comprising four green manuring treatments. Growing of sunhemp as green manuring crop give significantly highest N and P content in seed and stalk of castor and N, P and K uptake by stalk of castor. Significantly improvement in organic carbon and available N by different green manuring treatments. Application of 100% RDF + Banana pseudostem sap @1.5% as foliar spray at 30, 60 and 90 DAS give Significantly higher N and P content in seed and stalk, N, P and K uptake by seed and stalk and available N. while combined application of green manuring and nutrient management treatments were found non-significant influence on, nutrient content in seed and stalk, nutrient uptake by seed and stalk and maintain soil fertility status in soil after harvest of castor. The result indicated that growing of sunhemp at 45 DAS as green manure crop followed by sowing of castor with application of 75% recommended dose of fertilizers (90:28:00 N: P2O5:K2O/ha) + 1.5% foliar spray of banana pseudostem sap at 30, 60 and 90 days after sowing improve nutrient content and maintain soil fertility status. So, green manuring has become increasingly relevant in contemporary agriculture due to its multifaceted benefits, aligning with sustainable and environmentally conscious farming practices.','Green manure, nutrient content and soil fertility','Incorporation of sunhemp at 45 DAS as green manure crop followed by sowing of castor with application of 75% recommended dose of fertilizers (90:28:00 N: P2O5: K2O kg/ha) + 1.5% foliar spray of banana pseudostem sap at 30, 60 and 90 days after sowing was improved Nutrient content in castor crop as well as improve fertility status of the soil.','-','H.N. Chaudhary, B. J. Prajapati, C.K. Patel, K.V. Chaudhary and V.B. Gohil (2023). Effect of Green Manure and Nutrient Management on Castor (Ricinus communis L.) Nutrient Content and Soil Fertility. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 15(11): 602-608.'),(8117,'170','Varietal Screening of Rice against Sheath Rot under Natural and Artificial Epiphytotic Conditions','Sahane P.A., Pushpa Patil, Joshi M.S., Desai V.S. and Waghmode B.D. ','Varietal-Screening-of-Rice-Against-Sheath-Rot-under-Natural-and-Artificial-Epiphytotic-Conditions-Sahane-PA-16.pdf','',1,'Rice sheath rot caused by Sarocladium oryzae is an emerging fungal disease is spreading over many rice growing areas in Konkan region of Maharashtra. The screening for disease resistance is essential to identify the resistant source. Thirty-five varieties were screened under artificial and natural epiphytotic conditions during Kharif, 2021 and Kharif, 2022. Among thirty-five rice varieties evaluated against sheath rot under artificial epiphytotic conditions revealed that, Ratnagiri Purple variety showed moderately resistant reaction to sheath rot with 3.55 and 4.44 per cent disease severity in Kharif, 2021 and 2022, respectively. Thirteen rice varieties were moderately susceptible, sixteen were susceptible and five rice varieties viz., Karjat 7 (78.22 % and 75.55 %), Karjat 8 (64.44 % and 65.77 %), Karjat 9 (71.11 % and 73.77 %), Palghar 2 (70.67 % and 72.44 %) and Ratnagiri 73 (74.66 % and 75.11%) were found highly susceptible during both the season in artificial and natural condition also. Among thirty-five rice varieties evaluated against sheath rot under natural epiphytotic conditions during Kharif, 2021 and Kharif, 2022, result revealed that, Ratnagiri Purple variety showed moderately resistant reaction, thirteen rice varieties were found moderately susceptible reaction, sixteen rice varieties were found susceptible reaction, five rice varieties viz., Karjat 7, Karjat 8, Karjat 9, Palghar 2 and Ratnagiri 73 were found highly susceptible reaction in Kharif, 2021 and Kharif, 2022. ','Sarocladium oryzae, Rice, Susceptible, Moderately resistant','Based on above findings it was observed that none of the variety was highly resistant or resistant against sheath rot. Among the thirty-five rice varieties, Ratnagiri Purple variety showed moderately resistant against sheath rot of rice under natural and artificial epiphytotic conditions.','-','Sahane P.A., Pushpa Patil, Joshi M.S., Desai V.S. and Waghmode B.D. (2023). Varietal Screening of Rice against Sheath Rot under Natural and Artificial Epiphytotic Conditions. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 15(12): 86-90.'),(8118,'170','Effect of Gamma Irradiation on Induction of Mutations in Zamioculcas zamiifolia Engl. for Novel Plant Architecture','Basana Gouda S., Vijaykumar, Nirmala K. S. and R. Vasantha Kumari ','Effect-of-Gamma-Irradiation-on-Induction-of-Mutations-in-Zamioculcas-zamiifolia-Engl.-for-Novel-Plant-Architecture-BASANA-GOUDA-S-17.pdf','',1,'Zamioculcas zamiifolia Engl. (ZZ) is an ornamental foliage plant, recently introduced to the world of interior plantscape. The present study on inducing variability in ZZ plants using mutagens was carried out during the year 2021-2022 in shade net at the \'D\' Block, UAS, GKVK, Bengaluru. Mature leaflets with rhizome initiated were irradiated with 10 Gy, 12 Gy, 14 Gy, 16 Gy, 18 Gy and 20 grays of gamma irradiation. In gamma irradiated treatments, LD50 was observed at 18 Gy. In untreated control mature leaflets, early rhizome formation at 16.50 days after rhizome initiation (DAI), root initiation at 4.80 days DAI, highest number of roots (4.90) at 120 DAI, new shoot bud initiation at 62.50 DAI, maximum rhizome diameter of 1.62 cm at 90 DAI was recorded. Formation of cotyledonary like leaves at 93.60 DAI, maximum leaflet number (3.10), leaflet area (1.45 cm2) and plant height (3.35 cm) were recorded in control mature leaflet at 120 DAI. Variations could not be recorded in any of the gamma irradiated treatments with respect to leaf colour, leaflet variegation and leaflet shape due to detrimental effect of mutagen which was lethal and resulted in mortality of all the treated mature leaflets. ','Zamioculcas zamiifolia, Mature leaflet, Gamma irradiation, Mutation, EMS','Mutation induction using gamma ray is an exploration method for creating new variation in Zamioculcas zamiifolia Engl.. In the gamma irradiated mature leaflets with rhizome initiated, increase in the irradiation dosage had an adverse effect on the growth of rhizomes. The regular cycle and sequence of events in the formation of new plantlets from mature leaflets was hindered. Formation of roots, shoot bud, cotyledonary like leaves and development of new leaf was completely inhibited in irradiated mature leaflets with rhizome initiated. LD50 was found to be 18 Gy where 50 per cent of the rhizomes was survived. ','-','Basana Gouda S., Vijaykumar, Nirmala K. S. and R. Vasantha Kumari (2023). Effect of Gamma Irradiation on Induction of Mutations in Zamioculcas zamiifolia Engl. for Novel Plant Architectur. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 15(12): 91-95.'),(8119,'170','Effects of Pseudomonas Sp. (PT5) and Fusarium oxysporum Schlcht on growth of Mung bean (Vigna radiata L.)','M.G. Chaudhari, D.H. Chaudhary and A.P. Chaudhary','Effects-of-Pseudomonas-Sp.-(PT5)-and-Fusarium-oxysporum-Schlcht-on-growth-of-Mung-bean-(Vigna-radiata-L.)-MG-Chaudhari-18.pdf','',1,'In the present study, the effect of Pseudomonas strain designated as a PT5 and Fusarium oxysporum Schlcht on growth responses of Vigna radiata under pot condition was enumerated. An experiment was laid out with four different treatments with four replications in Completely Randomized Design (CRD) at Department of Biochemistry, B.R. Doshi School of Bioscience, Sardar Patel University, V. V. Nagar, Anand, Gujarat, India. The result revealed that the inoculation of PT5 microbial strains enhances the plant growth in terms of germination per cent, root and shoot length, fresh and dry weight and vigor index. The maximum increase in germination (100±5.65 %), root length (12±1.3 cm), shoot length (18.2±1.94 cm), fresh weight (0.66±0.42 gm), dry weight (0.12±0.03 gm) and vigor index (3020.00±101.21) were observed in response to Pseudomonas as compared to uninoculated control.','PGPR, Potato dextrose agar medium and Germination','The overall results of the present study indicate that the PT5 had promising positive effects on growth of Mung bean grown in pots under natural conditions. Thus, it can be concluded from study that the use of inoculation of PGPR traits could be the more effective and novel approach for achieving better germination, root growth and shoot growth of Mung bean grown under natural conditions.','-','M.G. Chaudhari, D.H. Chaudhary and A.P. Chaudhary (2023). Effects of Pseudomonas Sp. (PT5) and Fusarium oxysporum Schlcht on growth of Mung bean (Vigna radiata L.). Biological Forum – An International Journal, 15(12): 96-98.'),(8120,'170','Effect of Microbial Consortia Inoculation on N, P and K Content, Uptake and Yield of Soybean (Glycine max L. merill.) and Chickpea (Cicer arietinum L.) on Vertisol','Syed Javed, Syed Ismail, Waikar S.L. and More S.S.','Effect-of-Microbial-Consortia-Inoculation-on-N,-P-and-K-Content,-Uptake-and-Yield-of-Soybean-(Glycine-max-L.-merill.)-and-Chickpea-(Cicer-arietinum-L.)-on-Vertisol-SYED-JAVED-19.pdf','',1,'Tomorrow’s agriculture, challenged by increasing global demand for food, scarcity of arable lands, and resources alongside multiple environment pressures, needs to be managed smartly through sustainable and eco-efficient approaches. Modern agriculture has to be more productive, sustainable, and environmentally friendly. Microbial-based bioformulations that increase plant performance are greatly needed, and in particular bioformulations that exhibit complementary and synergistic effects with mineral fertilization. While macronutrients such as nitrogen (N), phosphorus (P), potassium (K), and sulfur (S) supplied by mineral fertilizers are vital to crop production, agriculturally beneficial microorganisms may also contribute directly (i.e., biological N2 fixation, P solubilization, and phytohormone production. Capacity of legumes to fix atmospheric nitrogen through symbiotic association, with rhizobia root nodule bacteria that comprise Rhizobium, Bradyrhizobium, Sinorhizobium, Azorhizobium and Mesorhizobium could be used to increase agricultural productivity (Kebede, Kebede, 2021). Meanwhile a sum of the findings may have been expected, the complex biological process underlying microbial consortia inoculants strengthing remains challenging. Our research has been focused on microbial consortia inoculation in future study’s to extends the potential of various beneficial bacterial inoculants the combination of two or more microbes together i.e consortium. Field experiments were conducted during kharif seasons of 2020-21 and 2021-22 at Research Farm of Department of Soil Science and Agricultural Chemistry, Vasantrao Naik Marathwada Agricultural University, Parbhani, Maharashtra to investigate the effect of microbial consortia inoculation and Chemical fetilizers on productivity and soil properties in soybean-chickpea sequence on Vertisol. The treatments detailed in kharif for soybean were microbial inoculants (S1), uninocualted control (S2), Rhizobium species + Bacillus megaterium (S3), Rhizobium species + Pseudomonas striata and (S4) Rhizobium species + Thiobacillus thiooxidant. Chemical fertilizers (T1) control i.e. without fertilizers, (T2) 50% RDF, (T3) 75 % RDF and (T4) 100 % RDF. After harvest of soybean, on the same plots were cultivated chickpea in rabi season with same treatments. The results indicated that the treatment combination of microbial inoculation (S3) Rhizobium species + Pseudomonas triata along with 100 % RDF was observed that the statistically highest nutrient content, uptake and yield of soybean and chickpea. ','Microbial consortia, chemical fertilizers, yield, nutrient, soybean-chickpea, Vertisol','As the above discussion, it can be concluded that, the yield nutrient content and uptake of soybean and chickpea were improved with consortia of Rhizobium species + Pseudomonas striata (Consortia II) inoculation over other inoculant treatments along with 100 per cent recommended dose of fertilizers. Pooled data of seed and straw yield significantly increased in treatment (S3) Pseudomonas triata + Bradyrhizobium + Pseudomonas striata and lowest was found in uninocualted control. ','-','Syed Javed, Syed Ismail, Waikar S.L. and More S.S. (2023). Effect of Microbial Consortia Inoculation on N, P and K Content, Uptake and Yield of Soybean (Glycine max L. merill.) and Chickpea (Cicer arietinum L.) on Vertisol. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 15(11): 99-106.'),(8121,'169','Microencapsulation of Custard Apple Powder through Spray Drying','Sangamesh, Manjula Karadiguddi, Kirankumar Gorabal, R.T. Patil, A.M. Nadaf and Suhasini Jalawadi ','Microencapsulation-of-Custard-Apple-Powder-through-Spray-Drying-Sangamesh-108.pdf','',1,'Custard apple is a highly perishable and seasonal crop that cannot be stored for more than three days. Discoloration and microbial spoilage are major problems in preserving the pulp. As a result, processing of custard apple through spray drying is crucial in increasing the availability of the product during the off-season. Thus, an attempt was made to optimise the processing variables viz., inlet temperature (175, 180 and 185oC) and outlet temperature (70, 80 and 90oC). The results powder recovery ranged from 17.23-20.42%, moisture content 7.42-4.92%, water activity 0.39-0.27, ascorbic acid ranged from 17.16-12.03 mg/100g and non enzymatic browning 0.001-0.005 OD. In conclusion, the high quality spray dried custard apple powder can be obtained at inlet temperature of 185oC and outlet temperature of 90oC resulted maximum recovery (20.42%), minimum moisture content (4.92%) and water activity (0.27) that could be stable for the storage.','Spray drying, ascorbic acid, water activity and moisture content','Custard apple powder obtained at inlet temperature of 185oC and outlet temperature of 90oC (I3O3) was found to be good with respect to recovery (20.42%), moisture content (4.92%), water activity (0.27), while the maximum ascorbic acid was noticed at inlet temperature of 175oC and outlet temperature of 70oC.','-','Sangamesh, Manjula Karadiguddi, Kirankumar Gorabal, R.T. Patil, A.M. Nadaf and Suhasini Jalawadi (2023). Microencapsulation of Custard Apple Powder through Spray Drying. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 15(11): 609-611.'),(8122,'170','Process Optimization of Fruit Yoghurt by using Kamalapur Red Banana (GI Tag No: 133-2009)','Shashikumar C.S., Manjunatha H., Basavabharati, Devaraju R., Priyatam Reddy K. and Vijaykumar M. ','Process-Optimization-of-Fruit-Yoghurt-by-using-Kamalapur-Red-Banana-(GI-Tag-No-133-2009)-SHASHI-KUMAR-CS-20.pdf','',1,'Milk contains lactose, protein and lipids along with minerals and vitamins. The milk when converted to fermented milk products the bioavailability of the milk nutrients improves. Yoghurt is one of the fermented milk products which can be prepared using fruits such as Mango, Strawberry, Blackberry and Banana for value addition. One such attempt has been carried out using Red Banana (Musa acuminate; GI Tag No 133-2009) as one of the additional ingredients of value addition. The Red Banana is a tropical fruit of Kamalapur region rich in calcium and potassium and dietary fiber. In order to present the fruit in an appealing manner, the yoghurt incorporated with red banana having both sour and sweet taste that go hand in hand attracting the consumers instead of only fruit or plain yoghurt as such. Red banana pulp incorporated yoghurt was prepared using Streptococcus thermophilus and Lactobacillus delbruckii ssp. bulgaricus as starters that promote consumers gut health by inhibiting putrefactive microorganisms through lactic acid production and bacteriocins. The banana incorporated yoghurt had improved protein content and reduced lactose content. Among the yoghurt samples prepared with added banana pulp at different concentrations such as 5%, 7.5%, 10% and 12.5% along with a control (without banana pulp), sample with 10% of banana pulp was more accepted by the panelists. The selected product had acidity of 0.72% lactic acid with acceptable microbiological standards. The aim of the study was to utilize the locally available red banana for enriching the yoghurt, a fermented product that improve the gut microflora of consumers with prebiotic component of banana and also prevent post harvest losses.','Red Banana, Potassium, Calcium, Dietary Fiber, Yoghurt','The red banana is a tropical fruit of Kamalapur region which is rich in minerals, mainly calcium and potassium along with its richness in dietary fiber. The incorporation of red banana yoghurt enriches the product with minerals, fiber and vitamins to meet dietary requirements of all age groups. The palatability of banana incorporated yoghurt is improved due to fermentation by having both sour (lactic acid) and sweet (starch) flavor. As the product is fermented, gut health of consumers is benefitted not only due to acidity but also with the abundant source of starch as prebiotic that stimulate probiotic microflora. ','-','Shashikumar C.S., Manjunatha H., Basavabharati, Devaraju R., Priyatam Reddy K. and Vijaykumar M. (2023). Process optimization of Fruit Yoghurt by using Kamalapur Red Banana (GI Tag No: 133-2009). Biological Forum – An International Journal, 15(12): 107-111.'),(8123,'170','Uterine Prolapsed in Crossbred Jersey Cow: its Treatment and Management','P. Rajbongshi, N. Borah and S.N. Yadav ','Uterine-Prolapsed-in-Crossbred-Jersey-Cow-its-Treatment-and-Management-SN-Yadav-21.pdf','',1,'Uterine prolapse typically occurs after giving birth, when increased intra-abdominal pressure during a prolonged labor or severe straining can cause this condition. A five-year-old cow gave birth to a female calf naturally in the morning hours and after 3hrs of calving a protrusion of mass through the vulva since last six hours. Based on clinical findings it was confirmed to be case of Uterine prolapsed. Treatment was given for severe straining in an animal, including injections, anesthesia, and sutures. Supportive therapy was administered, and after 12 hours, the animal became routine. The suture was removed after seven days, and the farmer was advised on prevention measures.','Cow, uterine prolapsed, straining, eight knot, management','Uterine prolapse typically occurs after giving birth, when increased intra-abdominal pressure during a prolonged labor or severe straining can cause this condition. Farmers are advised not to use home remedies to manage this emergency situation, but rather to consult with a veterinarian for a positive outcome and good prognosis.','-','P. Rajbongshi, N. Borah and S.N. Yadav (2023). Uterine Prolapsed in Crossbred Jersey Cow: its Treatment and Management. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 15(12): 112-113.'),(8124,'170','Evaluating the effect of Packaging Materials and Storage Methods on Quality Attributes and Aflatoxin content of dried Byadgi chilli','Pooja, M.D. Jameel Jhalegar, Thippanna K.S., Ambreesh, Shiddanagouda Yadachi and Abdul Kareem M. ','Evaluating-the-effect-of-Packaging-Materials-and-Storage-Methods-on-Quality-Attributes-and-Aflatoxin-content-of-dried-Byadgi-chilli-Pooja-22.pdf','',1,'This study aimed to investigate the impact of different packaging materials and storage conditions on the quality characteristics of dried Byadgi red chilli. Chilli samples were stored in Low-Density Polyethylene (LDPE), Gunny bags, Nylon net bags and double-layer plastic bags under both cold (5±2 °C) and ambient conditions. Over a period of six months, monthly analyses were conducted to examine changes in ascorbic acid, capsanthin, aflatoxin B1 and browning index. Statistical analysis revealed that chilli stored in double-layer packaging material under cold storage conditions exhibited superior preservation characteristics. These samples retained the highest ascorbic acid and capsanthin content. Simultaneously, they demonstrated lower levels of aflatoxin B1 and reduced browning index.','Byadgi chilli, storage, quality','After 180 days of cold storage, the dried red chilli stored in double-layer packaging material kept under cold storage conditions was found to be superior among packaging materials and storage conditions, because of the ability of double-layer packaging material to retain the highest ascorbic acid and capsanthin content, while simultaneously exhibiting lower levels of aflatoxin B1 content and browning index.','-','Pooja, M.D. Jameel Jhalegar, Thippanna K.S., Ambreesh, Shiddanagouda Yadachi and Abdul Kareem M. (2023). Evaluating the effect of packaging materials and storage methods on quality attributes and aflatoxin content of dried Byadgi chilli. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 15(12): 114-120.'),(8125,'170','Observations on Some Parasitic Plants on Mango Trees in Malda district of West Bengal','Snehasish Routray, Vimalkumar C., Nisha Sulakhe, Monika Jha and Ajit Pandey ','Observations-on-Some-Parasitic-Plants-on-Mango-Trees-in-Malda-district-of-West-Bengal-Snehasish-Routray-23.pdf','',1,'Parasitic plants represent a significant biotic challenge that a plant may encounter during its crop cycle. These angiosperms depend upon the host trees for various kinds of requirements. A survey in mango orchards at Malda district of west Bengal indicated dominance of various ferns, mistletoes and Loranthus parasitizing on trees. The most dominant fern was Drynaria quercifolia with mean infestation of 79.66±9.11% and Loranthus Sp. was found to be the least dominant parasitic species (4.41±3.41%). The population dynamics, distributions, host ranges of such parasitic plants are scanty especially in perennial fruit crops like mango. There are a very fewer documentations on species diversity of such parasitic weeds affecting mango in Malda. This study indicated the need of further studies on the population dynamics, relative occurrence, interaction with host plants, interaction with other fauna, and further need of the management practices of such parasitic weeds on mango.','Mango, Parasitic ferns, Loranthus, Mistletoes, West Bengal','The study indicated that Oakleaf basket fern is the dominant parasitic species whereas, African mistletoe is the least dominant parasitic weed among all. But there is scanty information regarding their interaction with the host plants, extent of losses they cause etc. Further studies are required on the increased occurrence of parasitic plants, their effects on host plants and development of control measure. Therefore, the study can enlighten the awareness of farmers, plant protectionists, horticulturists and researchers concerning to such parasitic weeds in Malda district of West Bengal to take further effective control methods in mango cultivation.','-','Snehasish Routray, Vimalkumar C., Nisha Sulakhe, Monika Jha and Ajit Pandey (2023). Observations on Some Parasitic Plants on Mango Trees in Malda district of West Bengal. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 15(12): 121-123.'),(8126,'170','Potential of Plant Growth Promoting Rhizobacteria for Improvement of Growth and Biochemical Status of Wheat Seedlings under Salinity','Prashant Gigaulia, Keerti Tantwai, Swapnil Sapre, Surabhi Pandey, Vinod Kumar Sahu and Sushma Nema','Potential-of-Plant-Growth-Promoting-Rhizobacteria-for-Improvement-of-Growth-and-Biochemical-Status-of-Wheat-Seedlings-under-Salinity-Prashant-Gigaulia-24.pdf','',1,'Wheat is a staple and most widely grown crop in the world; it holds the first rank in the world among grain production. As the population expands exponentially, the consumption and production rate of wheat also increase. For higher production, various chemical fertilizers are used in an uncontrolled manner. Hence, these practices affect both wheat yield and soil health, specifically salinity. In this study, improvement of growth wheat under saline condition through microbe-plant interaction was evaluated. For this purpose, a bacterial isolated from rice rhizosphere i.e. PT-5A having multiple plant growth promoting traits was interacted with wheat seedlings under normal as well as saline condition. This isolate demonstrated relative growth up to 36.52% in 25% NaCl salt concentration compared to growth in non-saline condition. In plant-microbe interaction experiment, wheat seedlings grown in hydroponic condition exhibited better growth parameters when inoculated with isolate PT-5A under normal and saline condition. Bacterial isolate PT-5A also eliminated salt stress through improvement of biochemical and antioxidant status of seedlings. It improved membrane stability of the seedlings as determined by electrical conductivity and malondialdehyde equivalent quantification. In salt stress, PGPR strain PT-5A inoculated seedlings showed a significantly increased chlorophyll content and decrease in proline, H2O2 content, SOD and POD activities, malondialdehyde concentration, and TSS content in comparison to the negative control seedlings. This research concludes that inoculating wheat seedlings with PGPR stain PT-5A improved their biochemical and physiological parameters and helped the wheat seedlings to extreme salt stress conditions.','Wheat, Salt tolerance, PGPR, Biochemical, Morphological','In comparison to un-inoculated seedlings, our study showed that inoculating wheat seedlings with PGPR isolate PT-5A enhanced their biochemical and physiological state and helped them endure NaCl stress to a greater extent. The PGPR inoculation appears to have a function in reducing the effects of salt stress, as the results show. Thus, PGPR plant inoculation may be a viable solution to reduce NaCl stress-induced damage in wheat seedlings. Nevertheless, additional research must be done to evaluate this strain\'s effectiveness in alleviating NaCl stress in wheat crops under typical field settings.','-','Prashant Gigaulia, Keerti Tantwai, Swapnil Sapre, Surabhi Pandey, Vinod Kumar Sahu and Sushma Nema (2023). Potential of Plant Growth Promoting Rhizobacteria for Improvement of Growth and Biochemical Status of Wheat Seedlings under Salinity. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 15(12): 124-131.'),(8127,'170','Ameliorative Effect of Different Amendments on Growth and Yield of Wheat in various Sodic Soil','Radha Chaudhary, K.C. Patel, Astha Pandey and Bhavik J. Prajapati','Ameliorative-Effect-of-Different-Amendments-on-Growth-and-Yield-of-Wheat-in-various-Sodic-Soil-Radha-Chaudhary-25.pdf','',1,'A pot house study was conducted at the Net House, Regional Research Station, AAU, Anand during rabi season of 2018-19 on Wheat (GW-496) as a indicator crop. Total 24 combinations of four amendments i.e. A0 (control), A1 (Gypsum @ 50% GR), A2 (Vermicompost @ 4.0 t ha-1) and A3 (sulphur @ 50 kg ha-1) and six soils (S1 to S6) were selected under Factorial CRD. The significantly highest plant height at 30, 60 DAS and harvest of wheat was recorded at all the three stages under vermicompost. Whereas, gypsum was found at par with sulphur. The wheat grain yield recorded under the treatment A2 (Vermicompost @ 4.0 t ha-1) was significantly highest (4.28 g pot-1) over sulphur @ 50 kg ha-1(A3) and control (A1), however, it was at par with A1 (Gypsum @ 50% GR). The effect of gypsum (A1) was found at par with sulphur (A3). While, the significantly superior straw yield was noted under the influence of Sulphur (A3) over other amendments and Control (A0). The total yield of wheat was significantly affected by A2: vermicompost over rest of amendments. The order of effectiveness of amendments in case of total yield was recorded as: vermicompost > gypsum > Sulphur. The total uptake of major and micronutrients were found highest under vermicompost application followed by the gypsum and sulphur. Initially it was challenging to find and collect the soils from different districts. At the time of growing season squirrels affected the wheat and we have sown the crop second time and then the green house was covered properly to protect from the birds and squirrels.','Amelioration, amendment, sodic soil, Wheat','It can be concluded that the application of vermicompost @ 4.0 t ha-1 significantly ameliorate the sodic soils by decreasing pH and ESP and thereby increased the wheat yield, nutrients content and uptake by wheat. So, the vermicompost @ 4.0 t ha-1 found better for the amelioration of different sodic soils amongst studied amendment. The effectiveness of gypsum and sulphur were proved comparable in increasing the yield of wheat in sodic soils. ','-','Radha Chaudhary, K.C. Patel, Astha Pandey and Bhavik J. Prajapati (2023). Ameliorative Effect of Different Amendments on Growth and Yield of Wheat in various Sodic Soil. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 15(12): 132-137.'),(8128,'170','Combining ability analysis for grain yield and yield contributing characters in rice (Oryza sativa L.)','Rajib Das, Denisha Rajkhowa, Senpon Ngomle and Bapsila Lointongbum','Combining-ability-analysis-for-grain-yield-and-yield-contributing-characters-in-rice-(Oryza-sativa-L.)-Rajib-Das-26.pdf','',1,'Identification of heterotic parents is prerequisite in hybrid breeding. Combining ability analysis is useful in selecting the parents and desirable cross combinations to be used in any breeding programme to produce superior hybrid. Four identified maintainers (Kanchana, Jyothi, Aruna and Bharathy) and 11 restorers (Remya, Jayathi, Swarnaprabha, Manupriya, Annapoorna, Kanakom, Mattatriveni, Varsha, Aiswarya, Neeraja and Pavizham) were crossed in L × T fashion and combining ability of parental lines were carried out in F1 generation. The GCA variances were significant for plant height, days to maturity, number of spikelet/panicle and number of grain/panicle indicating operation of additive gene action. On the other hand, SCA variances were highly significant for all characters except for total number of tillers, number of productive tillers and grain length/breadth ratio indicating the predominance of non-additive gene action. In order to assess heterosis in different combination of the identified maintainers and restorers an L × T analysis was done with maintainers as the lines and restorers as the testers. Perusal of findings indicated that line Jyothi is a good general combiner as it recorded a high over all GCA status. The hybrid Aruna × Varsha was the best specific combiner followed by, Jyothi × Pavizham and Kanchana × Mattatriveni. Three crosses viz; Aruna × Varsha, Jyothi × Pavizham and Bharathy × Annapoorna registered high significant heterosis for grain yield per plant over midparent, better parent and standard check Uma.','GCA, CSA, Line, Tester, Hybrid','In order to assess heterosis in different combination of the identified maintainers and restorers an L × T analysis was done with maintainers as the lines and restorers as the testers. Perusal of findings indicated that line Jyothi is a good general combiner as it recorded a high over all GCA status. The hybrid Aruna × Varsha was the best specific combiner followed by, Jyothi × Pavizham and Kanchana × Mattatriveni. Three crosses viz; Aruna × Varsha, Jyothi × Pavizham and Bharathy × Annapoorna registered high significant heterosis for grain yield per plant over mid parent, better parent and standard check Uma.','-','Rajib Das, Denisha Rajkhowa, Senpon Ngomle and Bapsila Lointongbum (2023). Combining ability analysis for grain yield and yield contributing characters in rice (Oryza sativa L.). Biological Forum – An International Journal, 15(12): 138-148.'),(8129,'170','Enumeration and Isolation of Listeria species from Dairy Environmental Samples','Sushmitha P., Ramachandra B., Sachindra Babu A. and Prabha R.','Enumeration-and-Isolation-of-Listeria-species-from-Dairy-Environmental-Samples-Sushmitha-P-27.pdf','',1,'In the present study, listeria in dairy environmental samples were enumerated and isolated in order to find the source of its entry into milk. Based on that soil, dung, fodder and feed considered under solid dairy environmental samples collected from Livestock Farm Complex, Veterinary college, KVAFSU, Bengaluru showed listeria counts ranging from 2.49 to 4.56 log10cfu/g when serially diluted and PALCAM agar was used as selective medium. Soil had listeria count of 79% followed by fodder of 60%, dung of 52% and feed of 51% when compared with total bacterial count. The liquid non-milk dairy environmental samples like swab of udder, swab of handler, can rinse, pail rinse, water, urine and air exhibited 0.00 to 1.53 log10cfu/ml of listeria. Swab of udder had more listeria count compared to other samples, while air of milking parlour did not show the presence of listeria. Among liquid milk dairy environmental samples like aseptic milk, pail milk, can milk, chilled milk and pasteurized milk, listeria count ranged from 0.00 to 1.89 log10cfu/ml. Aseptic milk, pail milk and pasteurized milk samples did not reveal the presence of listeria while can milk and chilled milk samples had listeria. The presence of listeria in raw milk may be introduced through soil, dung, fodder, feed, udder swab, urine that showed the presence of listeria. A total of eighteen listeria isolates were obtained that was inclusive of three isolates each from soil, dung, chilled milk followed by two isolates from fodder; feed; swab of udder; can milk and one isolate from cow urine sample. ','PALCAM, Listeria, Swab, Isolates, Milking Parlour','Among dairy environmental samples, soil, fodder, dung, feed while swab of udder, urine of milch animal, can milk and chilled milk showed the counts of listeria on PALCAM agar. A total of 18 number of isolates of listeria were obtained from the dairy environmental samples that revealed listeria counts. From this study it is evident that listeria may enter from dairy environmental samples into raw milk.','-','Sushmitha P., Ramachandra B., Sachindra Babu A. and Prabha R. (2023). Enumeration and Isolation of Listeria species from Dairy Environmental Samples. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 15(12): 149-153.'),(8130,'170','In-vitro Effect of Different Fungicides on Management of Anthracnose (Colletotrichum capsici) Disease of Chilli','Preeti Thakur, Anupam Kumar, Vinod Kumar, Rajan Kamboj, Ravinder, Shivani Kaundal, Prabhat Kumar, Sahil Chaudhary, Neeraj Bhardwaj, Ashish and Ashwani Kumar ','In-vitro-Effect-of-Different-Fungicides-on-Management-of-Anthracnose-(Colletotrichum-capsici)-Disease-of-Chilli-Anupam-Kumar-28.pdf','',1,'Anthracnose disease is a major problem in chilli production worldwide, especially in tropical and subtropical regions. Chilli is an important spice and condiment crop globally, and in the Colletotrichum pathosystem, different Colletotrichum spp. can be associated with anthracnose of the same host. Most of the fungicides have fungistatic and fungicidal activities. Hence, it is essential to recommend the appropriate fungicide and its concentration to reduce the yield loss caused by them. An experiment was conducted with eight treatments of different concentrations (100, 200, and 300 ppm) of fungicides. All the tested fungicides proved to be efficient and statistically significant to reduce the radial mycelial growth. The plates showed that fungicides were significantly more effective than the control at preventing Colletotrichum capsici from growing radially. Among the 3 fungicides, at 24, 48, and 72 hours, the treatments T4 (propiconazole 100 ppm), T5 (propiconazole 200 ppm), and T6 (propiconazole 300 ppm) showed the highest percentage of growth inhibition (100%), whereas T1 (copper oxide at 100 ppm), T2 (copper oxide at 200 ppm), and T3 (copper oxide at 300 ppm) showed a minimum percentage of growth inhibition of Colletotrichum capsici. There are various types of fungicides and chemicals available in the market that can be used to control anthracnose disease. However, some of these fungicides are highly effective against the pathogen and the disease, while others may not work as well for controlling anthracnose disease in chilli crops. Therefore, this investigation will be helpful for farmers to choose suitable fungicides for controlling anthracnose disease in an integrated way, saving their crops from the disease and obtaining better yields. ','Chilli, Colletotrichum, fungicides, inhibition and Anthracnose','On the basis of present investigations, it was concluded that concentration among the selected fungicides Propiconazole 25% EC was found to be the most effective showing complete inhibition in the radial growth of Colletotrichum capsici. ','-','Preeti Thakur, Anupam Kumar, Vinod Kumar, Rajan Kamboj, Ravinder, Shivani Kaundal, Prabhat Kumar, Sahil Chaudhary, Neeraj Bhardwaj, Ashish and Ashwani Kumar (2023). In-vitro Effect of Different Fungicides on Management of Anthracnose (Colletotrichum capsici) Disease of Chilli. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 15(12): 154-158.'),(8131,'170','Preparation of Direct Vat Set Cultures from Domestic Lactic Cultures','Deepa B.G., Manjunatha H., Akshaykumar, Basavabharati and Madhusudan N.M.','Preparation-of-Direct-Vat-Set-Cultures-from-Domestic-Lactic-Cultures-Deepa-BG-29.pdf','',1,'Dahi is an important fermented milk product. Liquid culture is normally used in the preparation of Dahi where microbial contamination with sequential propagation of liquid culture are the noted limitations. Dried and frozen cultures show lower viability and in order to overcome these problems, Direct Vat Set cultures are slowly introduced in the commercial sector. The present study was carried out to develop Direct Vat Set Dahi cultures through solid sate fermentation technique. Dahi samples of 5 each were collected from houses and local markets of Bengaluru. That showed total lactic bacterial viable count ranging from 5.36 to 7.04. Among 72 lactic isolates obtained. lactobacilli predominated (38) followed by leuconostoc (18); lactococci (9) and streptococci (7). The lactic cultures that set the milk with higher direct microscopic counts in sterile skim milk were Leuconostoc sp. Leu6: L. lactis ssp. lactis Lc1: L. fermentum Lb8: S. thermophilus St3 especially at the ratio of 0.15 %: 0.3 %: 0.5%: 1 %. The growth of mixed dahi culture on sterile black gram dhal with 1% skim milk powder, 10% tomato juice and 70% moisture as solid substrate medium showed 9.42 log10cfu/g at 24 hrs of incubation. SSF Dahi culture or DVS Dahi culture at ambient and refrigeration temperature revealed viable count reduction in total lactic count by 4.5 log and 3.5 log by the end of 70 days and 60 days of storage respectively. Dahi prepared from refrigerated stored DVS culture scored better than Dahi prepared out of ambient temperature stored DVS culture.','Lactic acid bacteria, Dahi, DVS cultures, Liquid cultures and solid state fermentation','Solid state fermented (SSF) Dahi culture or DVS Dahi culture was prepared by inoculating liquid culture of 2% level on to black gram dhal medium as solid substrate and incubated at 30°C for 24 hrs as it yielded higher DMC, dried at 20°C in BOD incubator for 18 hrs. The total lactic count of dried DVS culture was 9.75 log10/g.','-','Deepa B.G., Manjunatha H., Akshaykumar, Basavabharati and Madhusudan N.M. (2023). Preparation of Direct Vat Set Cultures from Domestic Lactic Cultures. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 15(12): 159-162.'),(8132,'170','In-vitro Evaluation of Fungicides against Brown Spot (Bipolaris oryzae) Disease of Rice','Neeraj Bhardwaj, Anupam Kumar, Vinod Kumar, Rajan Kamboj, Ritika Singh, Shivani Kundal, Prabhat Kumar, Sahil Chaudhary, Preeti Thakur and Ashish','In-vitro Evaluation of Fungicides against Brown Spot (Bipolaris oryzae) Disease of Rice-Anupam Kumar-30.pdf','',1,'Rice (Oryza sativa), is the most important cereal crop grown in India which is served as a staple food for half of the world population. It is an important cereal crop of India, affected by the various fungal, bacterial and viral diseases, Brown spot of rice caused by Bipolaris oryzae (Cochliobolus) has become a major constraint to rice production. Three fungicides namely; Carbendazium, Propiconozal and Tricyclazole were evaluated at 100 ppm, 150 ppm and 250 ppm and data were recorded after 24 hours, 47 hours, and 72 hours of incubation. After 24 and 48 hours no. of treatment showed any evidence of mycelium growth. The maximum percent growth inhibition were recorded in T6 and T9 (100%) followed by T8 (75.00%), T7 (50.00%), T3 (33.37%) respectively, however minimum growth inhibition was occurred in T1 (8.37%) at 24 hours. The maximum percent growth inhibition were recorded in T6 (100%) followed by T9 (63.98%), T3 (62.00%), T8 (54.02%) respectively, however minimum growth inhibition was occurred in T1 (39.37%) at 48 hours. The maximum percent growth inhibition were recorded in T6 (79.69%). followed by T9 (70.16%), T3 (65.63%), respectively, however minimum growth inhibition was occurred in T1 (46.88%) at 72 hours.','Rice, H. oryzae, disease, fungicides and growth in inhibition','On the basic of present study it was concluded that Tricyclazole @ 250 ppm most effective to inhibit the growth of B. oryzae. So that Tricyclazole considered may be the most effective fungicide against brown spot disease of rice.','-','Neeraj Bhardwaj, Anupam Kumar, Vinod Kumar, Rajan Kamboj, Ritika Singh, Shivani Kundal, Prabhat Kumar, Sahil Chaudhary, Preeti Thakur and Ashish (2023). In-vitro Evaluation of Fungicides against Brown Spot (Bipolaris oryzae) Disease of Rice. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 15(12): 163-166.'),(8133,'170','Promotion of Indian Mustard through Cluster Front Line demonstrations in the Eastern-Gangetic Plains of India','A.K. Mauriya, Mohammad Hashim, Pankaj Kumar, Mamta Kumari, Raghubar Sahu, R.K. Verma and V. K. Maurya','Promotion-of-Indian-Mustard-through-Cluster-Front-Line-demonstrations-in-the-Eastern-Gangetic-Plains-of-India-AK-Mauriya-31.pdf','',1,'On-farm cluster front-line demonstrations (CFLDs) were conducted during rabi season for eight consecutive years (2015-16 to 2022-23) in Bihar to demonstrate the impact and production potential of improved technologies. The CFLDs were conducted by Krishi Vigyan Kendra, Bhagalpur, Bihar, on the mustard crop in Bhagalpur districts of Bihar to know the yield gap, technology gap, extension gap, economic return, extent of farmer’s satisfaction, and constraints faced by the farmers, especially mustard growers. The results revealed that the average highest seed yield (15.81 q/ha) of mustard was recorded under the improved scientific production technology of CFLD, which consists of high-yielding varieties (RGN 48, Rajendra Sufalam, and RH 725), seed treatment, timely sowing, nutrient management with sulfur application, management of insect pests, diseases, and weed flora. Whereas, an average existing farmer\'s practice produced only 11.80 q/ha seed yield of mustard. The highest extension gap (6.10 q/ha) was recorded during 2018–19, whereas the mean extension gap during eight years was 4.01 q/ha. The highest technological gap (11.86 q/ha) and technology index (44.9%) were registered for RGN-48 during 2019–20, and the lowest technology gap (0.47 q/ha) and technology index (3.90%) were recorded for Rajendra Sufalam during 2015–16. Average of 948 farmers plots performance of eight years, demonstration plots under CFLD also obtained higher net return (` 43945/ha) and benefit cost ratio of 2.89 as compared to existing farmers practice.','CFLD, Economics, Gap, Mustard and Yield','Farmers and scientists had a better relationship as a result of Cluster Frontline Demonstrations (CFLDs). The CFLDs demonstration farmers served as the main source of information regarding the more advanced methods of mustard cultivation. They served as a source of pure, high-quality seeds for the following crop in their community and the surrounding area. The farmers\' financial problems and standard of living will improve as a result of the CFLDs\' significant reduction of the extension and yield gap. On the basis of eight-year investigation, it may be concluded that improved scientific production technology for mustard in CFLD is more productive and profitable as compared to existing farmers practices through organizing and conducting training, group discussions, farmer’s visits, field days, campaigns, and demonstrations.','-','A.K. Mauriya, Mohammad Hashim, Pankaj Kumar, Mamta Kumari, Raghubar Sahu, R.K. Verma and V. K. Maurya (2023). Promotion of Indian Mustard through Cluster Front Line demonstrations in the Eastern-Gangetic Plains of India. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 15(12): 167-173.'),(8134,'170','Organic Nutrient Management in Capsicum (Capsicum annuum L.var. grossum) for growth under Protected Condition','Ningthoujam Mira Devi, Arwankie Shadap, A.S. Mailappa, Barun Singh, Siddhartha Singh, Chandra Deo, Joyshree Kharibam, Khruzho Sakhamo and Aitorma Debbarma','Organic-Nutrient-Management-in-Capsicum-Capsicum-annuum-Lvar-grossum-for-growth-under-Protected-Condition-Arwankie-Shadap-32.pdf','',1,'A field study was conducted to evaluate the effect of organic manures on growth of capsicum at the Department of Vegetable Science, College of Horticulture and Forestry, Pasighat, Arunachal Pradesh, India, in two factor factorial Randomized Block Design with12 treatments and three replications. The investigation consisted of two factors viz. soil application of organic manures which includes vermicompost and FYM as Factor-1 and foliar application of organic manures which includes Panchagavya, Jeevamruth and vermiwash as Factor-2. In this experiment, the highest plant height was observed in the treatment combination T2(S1F2)-Vermicompost+Jeevamruth at both 30 and 60 days after transplanting (24.92 cm and 63.40 cm respectively). Similarly, stem girth (8.92mm), no. of leaves per plant at 60 days after transplanting (39.35), were recorded highest in T2(S1F2)-Vermicompost+Jeevamruth. The lowest node for first flower to appear was recorded in T3(S1F3)-Vermicompost+Vermiwash (4.20) and maximum leaf area (93.35 cm2) was recorded in T2(S1F2)-Vermicompost+Jeevamruth. Lowest was recorded in control for plant growth parameters.','Capsicum, Vermicompost, Panchagavya, Jeevamruth, Vermiwash','In summary, the results of this investigation revealed the influence of different organic manures, used as soil as well as foliar application on the growth and yield of sweet pepper. Based on the findings of the investigation, it may be concluded that treatment combination of vermicompost (2.5 t/ha) as soil application and Jeevamruth (3%) as foliar application gave better plant growth, yield and quality of capsicum variety Solan Bharpur under protected cultivation in Pasighat condition. It is eco-friendly in nature and influenced soil health. Thus, combined application of organic manures as both soil as well as foliar spray may be recommended to increase the growth, yield and quality of capsicum, also known as sweet pepper. ','-','Ningthoujam Mira Devi, Arwankie Shadap, A.S. Mailappa, Barun Singh, Siddhartha Singh, Chandra Deo, Joyshree Kharibam, Khruzho Sakhamo and Aitorma Debbarma (2023). Organic Nutrient Management in Capsicum (Capsicum annuum L.var. grossum) for growth under Protected Condition. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 15(12): 174-176.'),(8135,'149','Status and habitat use pattern of birds in Pong Dam Lake Wildlife Sanctuary, Himachal Pradesh','Anuradha, M.L. Thakur and H.S. Banyal','Status-and-habitat-use-pattern-of-birds-in-Pong-Dam-Lake-Wildlife-Sanctuary,-Himachal-Pradesh-M.L.-Thakur-201.pdf','',1,'A total of 225 species of birds, spread over 150 genera, 54 families and 17 orders have been recorded from the Pong Dam Lake Wildlife Sanctuary. The study further revealed the presence of 71 waterbird species. Maximum number of species i.e., 157 species have been reported from ‘Water System’ habitat. Another 132 species have been reported from two or more than two habitat types. Analyses of the primary feeding habits revealed the presence of 73 Insectivore birds from the present study area. The study further revealed the presence of 17 threatened species, including two (2) vulture species namely Gyps bengalensis and Sarcogyps calvus categorized as Critically Endangered. ','Birds, Status, Habitat use pattern, Pong Dam Lake Wildlife Sanctuary','The study revealed that Pong Dam Lake, also called Maharana Pratap Sagar, is situated in Shiwalik zone of the Himalayas, almost on northwest edge of the Indian peninsula, where birds migrating along the Central Asian Flyway are known to converge before spreading to other parts of the Country, makes it one of the most important sites for study of migratory wetland birds. The study revealed the presence of 225 species of birds including 71 waterbird species. ‘Water System’ habitat is one of the most important habitat types in the wetland, supporting 157 species. The study further revealed the presence of 17 threatened species, including two (2) vulture species namely Gyps bengalensis and Sarcogyps calvus categorized as Critically Endangered. The study further showed that 61 species accounting to 27% of the species recorded, have decreasing global population trends therefore, conservation of various habitat types in Pong Dam Lake has very high relevance, due to the presence of 17 globally threatened species having declining global population trends. Degradation of wetland ecosystem and consequent loss of biodiversity is the biggest threat needing immediate attention. Therefore, interventions on part of various stakeholders are needed to ensure conservation of an enormous range of biological diversity, particularly the avifauna. ','-','Anuradha, M.L. Thakur and H.S. Banyal (2023). Status and habitat use pattern of birds in Pong Dam Lake Wildlife Sanctuary, Himachal Pradesh. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 15(2): 1308-1319.'),(8136,'170','SSRmine: Python-based Command-line Tool for Precise Genomic SSR Markers’ Extraction ','Shbana Begam, Samarth Godara, Ramcharan Bhattacharya, Rajender Parsad and Sudeep Marwaha ','SSRmine-Python-based-Command-line-Tool-for-Precise-Genomic-SSR-Markers’-Extraction--Shbana-Begam-33.pdf','',1,'Crop improvement, integral to global food security and environmental sustainability, has been significantly enhanced by molecular markers. Simple Sequence Repeats, or microsatellites, stand out as crucial markers due to their unique tandem repeat structure across genomes. These markers are pivotal in genetic diversity assessment, QTL mapping, and marker-assisted selection in crop breeding programs. Despite existing SSR extraction tools, challenges persist, including the need for language-specific expertise and limitations in handling complex genome data. To address these issues, we introduce SSRmine, a user-friendly Python-based tool designed for efficient SSR extraction from diverse sequence data. SSRmine employs a novel algorithm to analyze sequences systematically, extracting SSR markers of varying lengths. The presented tool\'s design ensures ease of use, platform independence, and adaptability, catering to researchers with varying computational expertise. The study results show that SSRmine significantly improves accessibility to SSR extraction, offering a robust solution for researchers involved in genetic variation studies. The tool\'s efficiency and versatility make it a valuable asset in advancing crop improvement strategies through precision breeding.','QTL mapping, Molecular marker, Simple Sequence Repeats','In the realm of genomic research, the extraction of SSR is a critical step, providing insights into genetic diversity, evolutionary dynamics, and potential applications in crop improvement. The detailed analysis emphasizes SSRMine\'s effectiveness in extracting SSR markers, positioning it as a robust tool for researchers exploring genomic repetitive elements in various crops. SSRMine emerges as a potent tool for researchers delving into the intricate world of genomic repetitive elements. Its consistent performance, versatility, and user-friendly design position it as a valuable asset in unravelling genetic mysteries and advancing our understanding of plant genomes. As genomic research continues to evolve, SSRMine stands as a testament to the power of innovative tools in propelling the field forward.','-','Shbana Begam, Samarth Godara, Ramcharan Bhattacharya, Rajender Parsad and Sudeep Marwaha (2023). SSRmine: Python-based Command-line Tool for Precise Genomic SSR Markers’ Extraction. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 15(12): 177-180.'),(8137,'170','Effect of Growth Regulators, Sterilization Treatments, and Potting Mixtures on in vitro Micropropagation of Red Banana (Musa acuminata)','Manasi S. Kadam, B.D. Ghodake, A.V. Chinche, Srushti J. Chopade, Pallavi P. Gond and Vaishnavi M. Tattapure ','Effect-of-Growth-Regulators-Sterilization-Treatments-and-Potting-Mixtures-on-in-vitro-Micropropagation-of-Red-Banana-(Musa-acuminata)-BD-Ghodake-34.pdf','',1,'Bananas are popular, nutritious food, and rich in carbohydrates, vitamin C, potassium, and iron. Which are affected by several devastating diseases and cause a 30–50% loss in production. Micropropagation of shoot tips in vitro has become a significant application of biotechnology in agriculture and offers rapid multiplication, disease-free, and year-round availability of banana plants. The present investigation aimed to develop a simple and efficient protocol, which focused on the effect of plant growth regulators, sterilization treatments, and potting mixtures on the micropropagation of red banana. The meristem tip was used as an explant. Treatment T9 demonstrated the highest (67%) aseptic culture percentage focusing on bacterial control. The shoot induction with MS + 5 mg/L BAP showed 89.533% of explants showed growth in 39 days. The highest rooting (94%) was obtained with MS + 2 mg IBA + Activated charcoal and the average number of roots per explant (13.7).The highest survival (84.33%) was found in a potting mixture with red soil, Cocopeat, and Vermicompost (1:1:1).The above findings showed that an efficient and feasible technique has been established for the effective regeneration of new red banana plantlets. The importance of using specific pre-treatment methods, media combinations, and potting mixtures improved the success of plant regeneration and growth in terms of aseptic culture, shoot induction and multiplication, shoot length, rooting, and survival rate.','Red banana, Musa acuminata, Micropropagation, Plant growth regulators, sterilization treatments','The pre-treatment of 10ml/L Tween 20 for 10 min, 10ml savlon/L for 10 min, 0.50% Carbendazim for 30 min, 70% Ethanol for 1 min, 5% NaOCl for 10 min, and 0.1% HgCl2 for 6 min proved to be instrumental in optimizing the growth conditions for plant regeneration. The media combination of MS with 5 mg/L BAP demonstrated a remarkable multiplication rate of 89.53%, underscoring its efficacy in fostering robust plant development. Furthermore, the inclusion of MS with 2 mg IBA and activated charcoal emerged as a potent combination, yielding an impressive 94% root regeneration. The subsequent hardening of plantlets in a potting mixture comprising red soil, cocopeat, and vermicompost further contributed to their optimal growth. These findings collectively underscore the significance of the proposed pre-treatment and media combinations in enhancing the efficiency of plant regeneration and growth, paving the way for advancements in plant tissue culture methodologies.','-','Manasi S. Kadam, B.D. Ghodake, A.V. Chinche, Srushti J. Chopade, Pallavi P. Gond and Vaishnavi M. Tattapure (2023). Effect of Growth Regulators, Sterilization Treatments, and Potting Mixtures on in vitro Micropropagation of Red Banana (Musa acuminata). Biological Forum – An International Journal, 15(12): 181-188.'),(8138,'150','Effect of Bisphenol S on Duration of Stages of Life Cycle and Selected Biochemical Parameters in Culex quinquefasciatus Say','Anusha A.S., Sajeeb Khan A. and Ayana Gayathri R.V. ','Effect-of-Bisphenol-S-on-Duration-of-Stages-of-Life-Cycle-and-Selected-Biochemical-Parameters-in-Culex-quinquefasciatus-Say-Anusha-AS-133.pdf','',1,'Culex quinquefasciatus Say, is the principal vector of filariasis. Bisphenol A- substitute, Bisphenol S (BPS) is a xenobiotic used in plastic products, which leach out to the environment. The present studies focuses on the effect of BPS on the duration of stages of life cycle and select biochemical parameters in C. quinquefasciatus at 0.5, 1 and 2 ppm. A significant reduction in the duration of life cycle was observed in egg rafts reared in BPS. An increase in the total protein content along with a reduction in total free amino acid was observed in the 4th instar larvae. The content of uric acid showed a sharp increase. An elevation in the level of aspartate aminotransferase and alanine aminotransferase were observed. The present study revealed that xenobiotic, BPS which is now widely used as a substitute for endocrine-disruptor BPA facilitated rapid moulting in C. quinquefasciatus mosquitoes. ','Bisphenol S, Culex quinquefasciatus, Full life cycle test, aminotransferases, total protein, uric acid','Widespread awareness on endocrine-disrupting properties of BPA has created a huge influx of its substitutes in to the market and finally to the ecosystem. The present study is an eye-opener due to the fact that BPA substitute BPS is also having similar effects on the aquatic ecosystem, especially on Culex mosquitoes in which they reduce the life cycle duration producing more number of generations within a brief time. Plastic waste management itself can act as a vector control strategy through which release of mosquito developmental agonist in the ecosystem can be minimized.','-','Anusha A.S., Sajeeb Khan A. and Ayana Gayathri R.V. (2023). Effect of Bisphenol S on Duration of Stages of Life Cycle and Selected Biochemical Parameters in Culex quinquefasciatus Say. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 15(3): 855-859.'),(8139,'156','Vitamin C Ameliorates the Malformed Tissue Integrity of Kidney and Liver in Swiss Albino Mice (Mus musculus) exposed to Restraint Stress and Dietary Salt','Sajeeb Khan A., Manish K., Praveen Kumar, Jaya Chithra S.K. and Ayana Gayathri R.V.','Vitamin-C-Ameliorates-the-Malformed-Tissue-Integrity-of-Kidney-and-Liver-in-Swiss-Albino-Mice-(Mus-musculus)-exposed-to-Restraint-Stress-and-Dietary-Salt-Sajeeb-Khan-A-157.pdf','',1,'Vitamin C, being an antioxidant, plays a crucial role in various physiological functions, and a critical regulator in cellular integrity. The effect of stressors like chronic restraining and salt-enriched diet in the kidney and liver histology and the role of Vitamin C in maintaining tissue integrity were studied in Swiss Albino mice Mus musculus. The mice were either exposed to restraint stress daily 1 hour alone or supplemented with ascorbic acid (330 mgL-1) via drinking for three weeks. Similarly, groups of mice were either fed with 4% salt-rich diet alone or supplemented with ascorbic acid (330 mgL-1) via drinking water for the same duration. Structural changes in kidney and liver were evident in mice exposed to chronic restraining and excess dietary salt. Volume expansion or necrosis of Bowman\'s capsule, shrunkenglomeruli, renal tissue gap formation, hyperplasia and fibrous tissue infiltration were observed in the kidney. Cellular hypertrophy, volume expansion, nuclear pyknosis and granulomatous lesions were observed in the liver tissue due to stress. Vitamin C supplementation under stressed conditions could effectively prevent these stress-induced changes by retaining the tissue integrity in mice and has thus proven its role in tissue protection during stress. ','Restraint stress, salt-rich diet, Vitamin C, Mice, kidney, liver','Taking all our results together, we conclude that emotional or physical stress damages cellular integrity in tissues. Stressors like chronic restraining and intake of foods with high salt levels negatively affect the integrity of tissues, as demonstrated by the histological examination results. Restraint stress had induced such structural changes in the kidney like increased thickness of Bowman\'s capsule, shrunken glomeruli and increased tubular diameter, whereas, in the liver, it caused a disorganised his to architecture like multiple granulomatous lesions, hyperplasia of hepatocytes with coagulative necrosis characterised by pyknoticnuclei. The hypertrophy, hyperplasia, nuclear enlargement, and gap development in the kidney and liver are indications of structural deformity driven on by the high salt diet. However, Vitamin C supplementation has countered these ill effects by either slowing down tissue damage or by maintaining the tissue integrity with reduced inflammation in mice exposed to either restraint stress or dietary salt excess. Overall, the findings of this study showed that vitamin C supplementation had significant effects in restoring the distorted his to architecture of kidney and liver in mice exposed to high dietary salt or restraining stressors. These findings indicate the protective role of vitamin C against stressors.','-','Sajeeb Khan A., Manish K., Praveen Kumar, Jaya Chithra S.K. and Ayana Gayathri R.V. (2023). Vitamin C Ameliorates the Malformed Tissue Integrity of Kidney and Liver in Swiss Albino Mice (Mus musculus) exposed to Restraint Stress and Dietary Salt. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 15(4): 951-956.'),(8140,'170','Effect of various Nutritive Substrate on the Growth of Lactic Acid Bacteria','Deepa B.G., Manjunatha H., Akshaykumar, Madhusudan N.M. and Basavabharati','Effect of various Nutritive Substrate on the Growth of Lactic Acid Bacteria-Deepa BG-35.pdf','',1,'Dahi is an important fermented milk product having heterogeneous lactic microflora which play a major role in human diet. Dahi samples of 5 each were collected from houses and local markets of Bengaluru. That showed total lactic bacterial viable count ranging from 5.36 to 7.04. Among 72 lactic isolates obtained. lactobacilli predominated (38) followed by leuconostoc (18); lactococci (9) and streptococci (7). The lactic cultures that set the milk with higher direct microscopic counts in sterile skim milk were Leuconostoc sp. Leu6: L. lactis ssp. lactis Lc1: L. fermentum Lb8: S. thermophilus St3 especially at the ratio of 0.15 %: 0.3 %: 0.5%: 1 %. The growth of mixed dahi culture on sterile black gram dhal with 1% skim milk powder, 10% tomato juice and 70% moisture as solid substrate medium showed 9.42 log10cfu/g at 24 hrs of incubation. ','Lactic acid bacteria, Dahi, Fermentation, Skim milk powder and Black gram','Mixed Dahi culture was inoculated to sterile skim milk and incubated at 30°C to study the growth at every 6 hrs of interval upto 48 hrs. higher DMC of 8,68 log with 0.65% lactic acid was observed 24 hrs of incubation. Mixed dahi culture was grown on sterile black gram dhal with 1% of skim milk powder, 10% of tomato juice and 70% moisture as solid substrate medium at 30°C for 48 hrs. DMC was highest at 24 hrs of incubation accounting for 9.42 log10/g. Incubation period of 24 hrs was considered ideal for the growth of mixed dahi culture in order to obtain good biomass.','-','Deepa B.G., Manjunatha H., Akshaykumar, Madhusudan N.M. and Basavabharati (2023). Effect of various Nutritive Substrate on the Growth of Lactic Acid Bacteria. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 15(12): 189-195.'),(8141,'170','Response of Different Vase Solution on Keeping Quality of Cut Spikes of Gladiolus',' Aman Singh Rajput and S.K. Tamrakar ','Response-of-Different-Vase-Solution-on-Keeping-Quality-of-Cut-Spikes-of-Gladiolus-Aman-Singh-Rajput-36.pdf','',1,'The present study was carried out to find out the “Response of different vase solution on keeping quality of cut spikes of gladiolus” was study at laboratory of Department of Floriculture and Landscape Architecture, College of Agriculture, IGKV, Raipur, (C.G.) during season 2022-23. The experiment was laid out in Completely Randomized design (CRD). There were 7 treatments i.e. T0 (Tap water), T1 Salicylic acid (150ppm), T2 Citric acid (100 mg), T3 Aluminium sulphate (200 ppm), T4 GA3 (200 ppm), T5 Boric acid (4%), T6 8-HQS (200 ppm) which were replicated thrice. The result suggested that among the different vase solutions, treatment Salicyclic acid @ 150 ppm (T1) had found most appropriate in improving most of the post-harvest parameters in cut spikes of gladiolus under present investigation & resulted more physiological weight loss (41.57 %), increased water uptakes ratio (1.45 g), florets remained open at a time (4.00), diameter of floret (77.27 mm), floret opening (97.40 %), days taken to deterioration of florets (4.00 days), vase life of gladiolus spike (10.22 days) and longevity of spike (12.22 days).','Gladiolus, Salicylic acid, Vase life','On the basis of results obtained from present investigation, it may be conducted that The different floral preservatives are found very useful in improving most of the post-harvest qualities of gladiolus spike as compare to Tap water. Among the different vase solutions, treatment Salicyclic acid @ 150 ppm (T1) had found most appropriate in improved most of the post-harvest parameters in cut spikes of gladiolus under present investigation & resulted increased total number of opened florets at a time, diameter of floret (cm), floret opening (%), vase life of gladiolus spike and longevity of spike (days) of cut gladiolus spike. The same treatment also reduced physiological weight loss (%) and delayed deterioration of florets.','-',' Aman Singh Rajput and S.K. Tamrakar (2023). Response of Different Vase Solution on Keeping Quality of Cut Spikes of Gladiolus. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 15(12): 196-199.'),(8142,'172','Effect of organic manures on growth and yield of Raphanus sativus L. under Melia based agroforestry system: A case study from North Western Himalaya','Ghazanfer Abbas, Vimal Chauhan, Umakanta Dash, Alisha Keprate, Akshay F Madiwalar, Rajput Nikhil Balu and Raziya Banoo','Effect-of-organic-manures-on-growth-and-yield-of-Raphanus-sativus-L-under-Melia-based-agroforestry-system-A-case-study-from-North-Western-Himalaya-Ghazanfer-Abbas-1.pdf','',1,'An agroforestry experiment was conducted to investigate the effect of planting conditions and various combinations of organic manures on the performance of radish under a 14-year-old Melia composita plantation, namely, A1 (8m × 4m) and A2 (sole crop). The experiment took place at the experimental farm of the Department of Silviculture and Agroforestry, Dr. Y S Parmar University of Horticulture and Forestry, Nauni, Solan, Himachal Pradesh, India, during the months of September to November, 2020. The treatment combinations of organic inputs were as follows: T1: Control, T2: Recommended Dose of FYM (100%), T3: 100% FYM + Jeevamrut (20 litres/bigha), T4: 100% FYM + Jeevamrut (30 litres/bigha), T5: 100% FYM + Jeevamrut (40 litres/bigha), T6: 100% FYM + Jeevamrut (50 litres/bigha), and T7: 100% FYM + Jeevamrut (60 litres/bigha). The experiment was laid out in a Randomized Block Design (Factorial) with three replications. The study aimed to explore the possibilities of successfully cultivating Raphanus sativus as an intercrop under the Melia composita based agroforestry system and in open field conditions. The results of the present study revealed that the Raphanus sativus crop grown under the Melia composita based agroforestry system exhibited lower growth and yield compared to the open field condition. On the other hand, among different combinations of organic manures, the application of 100% FYM + Jeevamrut at the rate of 60 litres/bigha was found to be the best treatment combination for the growth and yield of the radish crop.','Agroforestry, Melia composita, Radish, FYM, Jeevamrut','Based on the outcomes of the present investigation, it can be inferred that the growth performance of radish was better under open conditions as compared to the agroforestry system. Reductions in growth and yield parameters of radish were observed in the presence of the tree (Melia composita). Tree proximity had a negative impact on crop performance, but the minimal losses in productivity due to the integration of the crop with tree components may be compensated by multiple tree products. Different organic manures influenced the growth and yield of radish in terms of leaf length, leaf width, root length, root diameter, and root yield. Among the different doses of organic manures, the application of 100 percent FYM + Jeevamrut at the rate of 60 litres/bigha (T7), followed by 100 percent FYM + Jeevamrut at the rate of 50 litres/bigha (T6), proved to be the best treatment combination for the growth and yield parameters of Raphanus sativus L.','-','Ghazanfer Abbas, Vimal Chauhan, Umakanta Dash, Alisha Keprate, Akshay F Madiwalar, Rajput Nikhil Balu and Raziya Banoo (2024). Effect of organic manures on growth and yield of Raphanus sativus L. under Melia based agroforestry system: A case study from North Western Himalaya. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 16(1): 01-06.'),(8143,'170','HDPE Packing of Curry Leaves (Murraya koenigii) Retains its Quality Parameters with a Long Shelf Life','T. Glory Thansuya, B. Senthamizh Selvi, P. Irene Vethamoni, K. Venkatesan, M. Mohanalakshmi and D. Mastan Vali ','HDPE-Packing-of-Curry-Leaves-(Murraya-koenigii)-Retains-its-Quality-Parameters-with-a-Long-Shelf-Life-B-Senthamizh-Selvi-37.pdf','',1,'Studies on the effect of different packaging techniques to improve shelf life and quality of curry leaf (Murraya koenigii Sprenge) was taken up with different packaging materials viz., HDPE, LDPE and aluminium foil with (1% vent) and without vent at two different conditions i.e., ambient condition (28±2ºC) and refrigerated condition (5±2ºC). The results revealed that HDPE packaging with 1% vent @ refrigerated condition (5±2ºC) performed well in terms of least physiological loss in weight, with maximum retention of chlorophyll content, beta-carotene content and ascorbic acid content. The colour value declined slowly in HDPE packaging with 1% vent at refrigerated condition (5±2ºC). ','Murraya koenigii, HDPE, LDPE, aluminium foil','The present investigation revealed that HDPE packaging of curry leaf with 1% vent @ refrigerated condition (5±2ºC) performed well in terms of least physiological loss in weight, maximum retention of chlorophyll content, beta-carotene content and ascorbic acid content. The colour value declined slowly in HDPE packaging with 1% vent at refrigerated condition (5±2ºC). This finding can be recommended for commercial packaging of curry leaf.','-','T. Glory Thansuya, B. Senthamizh Selvi, P. Irene Vethamoni, K. Venkatesan, M. Mohanalakshmi and D. Mastan Vali (2023). HDPE Packing of Curry Leaves (Murraya koenigii) Retains its Quality Parameters with a Long Shelf Life. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 15(12): 200-205.'),(8144,'170','Performance Evaluation of French Bean (Phaseolus Vulgaris L.) varieties for Growth, Yield and Quality Attributes under Cold Temperate Conditions of Gurez Valley','M. Mudasir Magray, Bilal Ah. Bhat, Waseem Ali Dar, Bilal Ah. Pandith and Shahnawaz A. Dar','Performance-Evaluation-of-French-Bean-(Phaseolus-Vulgaris-L.)-varieties-for-Growth,-Yield-and-Quality-Attributes-under-Cold-Temperate-Conditions-of-Gurez-Valley-M-Mudasir-Magray-38.pdf','',1,'Gurez is cold hilly and extreme northern temperate region of Kashmir valley which has short agriculture growing season due to harsh winter months. Gurez has rich diversity of flora and fauna due to its unique climatic conditions. Vegetables like Cole crops, Root Vegetables, Potato and Rajmash are grown in valley during summer months. Among different vegetable crops Beans have great scope for cultivation in valley owing to its short duration growing season. Beans are suited to climatic conditions of valley during summer season. In order to improve nutritional security of valley the present investigation was undertaken with objective of growing of beans in different altitudes of Gurez valley to find the best suitable variety for the valley.\r\nThe study was conducted at three different altitudes of valley Kanzalwan (Altitude 2386 meters), Izmarg Altitude (2407 meters) and Tulail (Altitude 3245 meters ) of Gurez valley in which three bean varieties were grown during two consecutive years (2021-22 & 2022-23) to evaluate the best suitable variety for the region. It has been observed that variety V1(Shalimar French bean-1) recorded maximum values with respect to growth , yield and quality attributes of beans as compared with other two varieties namely V2 (Pusa Phalguni) and V3 (Anupama).\r\nPooled data of two years revealed that V1 recorded maximum values for plant height (49.93 cm), no. of branches per plant(11.63), no. of leaves plant-1 (42.20), no. of pods plant-1 (18.04), pod length ( 13.94 cm), pod girth (0.97cm), average pod weight (5.33g), pod yield plant1 (165.81g/pl ), pod yield hac-1 (172.47 qha-1), T.S.S (8.72 Brix°), vitamin C (14.73 mg/100 g), protein content % (1.97), and anthocyanin content µg-1 (15.11) as compared with V2 and V3 varieties.\r\n','French bean, Growth, Impact, Quality, Production, varieties, yield','Among three Varieties of vegetable beans which were sown at three location of Gurez valley (lower, middle and upper zone) revealed that the variety V1 (Shalimar French Bean-1) recorded maximum values of growth, yield and quality attributes as compared with other two varieties Pusa Phalguni and Anupama. The variety V1 is therefore more suitable and recommended for cultivation in all the three different locations of Gurez valley. In future more different varieties of Vegetable beans will be evaluated for Gurez valley in order to improve the nutritional security of the region having a limited growing season.','-','M. Mudasir Magray, Bilal Ah. Bhat, Waseem Ali Dar, Bilal Ah. Pandith and Shahnawaz A. Dar (2023). Performance Evaluation of French Bean (Phaseolus Vulgaris L.) varieties for Growth, Yield and Quality Attributes under Cold Temperate Conditions of Gurez Valley. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 15(12): 206-209.'),(8145,'170','Variability for Growth, Yield and Yield Attributing Characters in M3 Generation Mutants of Butter Beans (Phaseolus lunatus L) var. KKL-1','B. Senthamizh Selvi, D. Sathiyaraj, J. Rajangam, M. Mohanalakshmi, R. Nageswari and D. Mastan Vali ','Variability-for-Growth-Yield-and-Yield-Attributing-Characters-in-M3-Generation-Mutants-of-Butter-Beans-(Phaseolus-lunatus-L)-var.-KKL-1-B-Senthamizh-Selvi-39.pdf','',1,'Butter beans or Lima beans (Phaseolus lunatus L.), is an herbaceous plant of the leguminaceae family rich in protein, vitamins B and C, and various minerals including iron, magnesium, phosphorus, and potassium. Owing to its cleistogamous nature, mutation breeding was effectively utilized for creation of variability and to improve the yield and other polygenic characters. The experimental material comprised of 35 M3 mutants along with the check variety KKL-1. The M3 mutant lines were grown in RBD with three replications at Horticultural Research Station, Tamil Nadu Agricultural University, Kodaikanal. The data collected from individual mutants along with check were subjected to statistical analysis to calculate mean significance of mutants and genetic parameters using TNAUSTAT. Among 35 mutants, 20 mutants showed significant mean values for plant height compared to local check variety KKL 1. Eight mutants recorded the highest leaves per plant (26.00). The mutant BBM18 and BBM34 recorded the highest number of pods per plant (40.00). BBM1, BBM5, BBM18 and BM25 recorded the highest pod girth. Whereas BBM 7 was identified as early flowering and early maturity mutant. ','Butter beans, mutants, variability, genetic parameters','From the above observations, it is evident that the physical mutagen has created variation in chromosome level in the M3 progenies which lead to the evolution of new beneficial mutant mutants. The mean value observed for different traits in M3 generation led to identification of a dwarf mutant line BBM35 recorded a very low plant height, BBM25 exhibited taller plant, an early mutant line BBM7 and a high yielding mutant line BBM18 were forwarded to M4 generation. ','-','B. Senthamizh Selvi, D. Sathiyaraj, J. Rajangam, M. Mohanalakshmi, R. Nageswari and D. Mastan Vali (2023). Variability for Growth, Yield and Yield Attributing Characters in M3 Generation Mutants of Butter Beans (Phaseolus lunatus L) var. KKL-1. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 15(12): 210-215.'),(8146,'170','Understanding the Biochemical Changes in the Macromolecules during Stem Bending of Cut Gerbera (Gerbera jamesonii Bolus) cvs Stanza and Rosalin','Masanagari Supriya, Tapas Kumar Chowdhuri and Madhumita Mitra Sarkar ','Understanding-the-Biochemical-Changes-in-the-Macromolecules-during-Stem-Bending-of-Cut-Gerbera-(Gerbera-jamesonii-Bolus)-cvs-Stanza-and-Rosalin-Masanagari-Supriya-40.pdf','',1,'A lab experiment on understanding the biochemical changes in the macromolecules during stem bending of cut gerbera (Gerbera jamesonii Bolus) cvs Stanza and Rosalin were carried in the laboratory, Department of Floriculture and Landscape architecture, Bidhan Chandra Krishi Viswavidyalaya during the year 2021-2022. The experiment was laid out in a factorial Completely randomized design with 8 treatments, replicated thrice. The treatments include two varieties (V1 and V2) and four stages of bending (S1, S2, S3 and S4). The results of the present study demonstrated that significantly maximum reducing sugars (0.26%) and non reducing sugars (2.61%) was recorded in cv Stanza at the initiation of bending stage. Wherein, the accumulation of starch, protein and phenol at the point of bending was recorded maximum at no bending stage in both the cultivars and declined gradually with advancement of bending stages in stems. The maximum starch (16.34%) was found in cv Rosalin at no bending stage, maximum protein (28.72 mg/g FW) and phenol content (5.64 mg/g FW) was found in cv Stanza at no bending stage.','Reducing sugars, starch, stem bending, Stanza, cultivars, phenol','It can be clearly concluded that increased stem bending is caused and associated by the steady depletion of starch, protein and sugars in the stem. Stem bending causes the degradation of protein and starch leading to the development of oxidative stress in fully bent stems causing senescence.','-','Masanagari Supriya, Tapas Kumar Chowdhuri and Madhumita Mitra Sarkar (2023). Understanding the Biochemical Changes in the Macromolecules during Stem Bending of Cut Gerbera (Gerbera jamesonii Bolus) cvs Stanza and Rosalin. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 15(12): 216-220.'),(8147,'170','Effect of Foliar Application of Boron and Zinc on Growth, Yield and Quality of Local Brinjal (Solanum melongena L.) Genotypes','Sushen Kumar Das, Subhamoy Sikder, Ram Krishna Sarkar and Shibnath Basfore','Effect-of-Foliar-Application-of-Boron-and-Zinc-on-Growth-Yield-and-Quality-of-Local-Brinjal-(Solanum-melongena-L.)-Genotypes-Sushen-Kumar-Das-41.pdf','',1,'Brinjal (Solanum melongena L.) or eggplant is one of the most common, popular and principle vegetable crop grown in West Bengal. The flower dropping and less fruit setting which resulted low fruit yields of brinjal are remarkably observed due to micronutrient deficiencies in soil particularly boron and zinc. Keeping this view, the field experiment was conducted at Experimental Farm of Uttar Banga Krishi Viswavidyalaya, Pundibari, Cooch Behar, West Bengal during two consecutive winter seasons of 2018-19 and 2019-20 to find out suitable local brinjal genotype in combination with micronutrient application. The experiment was laid out in Factorial RBD with three replications. The treatments comprised of eight local brinjal genotypes (V1 - Kaljani, V2 - Seleti, V3 - Guriarpar, V4 - Lopcha, V5 - Baromasi, V6 - Barshali, V7– Lambate & V8 - Ashapuri) and four micronutrient foliar application (T0 - Control, T1 - 150 ppm boron, T2 - 0.4% Zinc Sulphate & T3 - 150 ppm boron + 0.4% Zinc Sulphate). There were significant variations among genotypes for all growth and yield as well as quality trait due to boron and zinc applications. The maximum plant height (67.66 cm), number of flowers/plant (68.66), number of fruits/plant (28.49), fruit length (19.74 cm), fruit diameter (62.67 mm), individual fruit weight (164.50 g) and fresh fruit yield (23.46 t/ha) were exhibited by foliar application of 150 ppm boron + 0.4% zinc sulphate followed by foliar application of 0.4% zinc sulphate. Among the genotypes, Lopcha recorded maximum fresh fruit yield per plant (2.01 kg) and total marketable fruit yield of 25.15 t/ha followed by Kaljani (24.72 t/ha) and Guriarpar (23.53 t/ha). Whereas, lowest fresh fruit yield (14.14 t/ha) was produced by genotype Barshali. The maximum total soluble solid (TSS) of 4.92°Brix was recorded by Barshali, but it was found highest (4.740 Brix) in control treatment i.e. no micronutrient application.','Brinjal, Solanum melongena, genotypes, micronutrients, growth, yield and quality','From the above discussion, it is concluded that foliar application of 150 ppm boron + 0.4% zinc sulphate followed by 0.4% zinc sulphate considered best for growth, yield, earliness and quality parameter in brinjal. Among the different varieties, Lopcha, Kaljani and Guriarpar considered as most promising. Lopcha and Guriarpar treated with foliar application of 150 ppm boron + 0.4% zinc sulphate considered best for yield as well as quality respectively.','-','Sushen Kumar Das, Subhamoy Sikder, Ram Krishna Sarkar and Shibnath Basfore (2023). Effect of Foliar Application of Boron and Zinc on Growth, Yield and Quality of Local Brinjal (Solanum melongena L.) genotypes. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 15(12): 221-226.'),(8148,'167','Population characteristics of Phthiraptera on helmeted guinea fowl, Numida meleagris (Linnaeus, 1758) (Galliformes: Numididae)','Aftab Ahmad and Gaurav Sharma','Population-characteristics-of-Phthiraptera-on-helmeted-guinea-fowl-Numida-meleagris-(Linnaeus-1758)-(Galliformes-Numididae)-Dr.-Gaurav-Sharma-19.pdf','',1,'The helmeted guineafowl, Numida meleagris (Linnaeus, 1758) was examined for the presence of phthirapteran ectoparasites. Three phthirapteran species i.e. Menopon gallinae (Linnaeus, 1758), Goniocotes maculatus Taschenberg, 1882 and Lipeurus tropicalis Peters, 1931 were recorded during the study from the fifteen aforesaid hosts. The prevalence of all these three species i.e. M. gallinae, G. maculatus, and L. tropicalis, on helmeted guineafowl, Numida meleagris, was 60.0, 33.3, and 46.7%, respectively. The mean and median intensity of the aforesaid species were recorded at 51.67, 45.0 (range 24-94); 33.20, 29.0 (range 16-72); and 43.57, 48.0 (range 19-72). The females were found to out number the males (M: F ratios 1:1.31, 1:1.17 and 1:1.54) and the nymph population was also found to exceed the adult population (A: N ratios 1:1.26, 1:1.55 and 1:1.31).','Phthiraptera, Lice, Prevalence, Mean intensity, Median intensity, Numida meleagris','The prevalence, mean intensity, and sample mean abundance of M. gallinae were comparatively higher (60.0 %, 51.67, 31.0 range-24-94) than those of L. tropicalis (46.7 %, 43.57, 20.33 range-19-72) and G. maculatus (33.3 %, 33.20, 11.07 range-16-72). However, the median intensity of L. tropicalis (48.0) remained higher than the other two species, M. gallinae (45.0) and G. maculatus (29.0). The sex ratios of all three species were dominant in all three species (M. gallinae-1:1.31, G. maculates-1:1.17, and L. tropicalis-1:1.54), and the nymphal population exceeded the adult population (M. gallinae-1:1.26, G. maculatus-1:1.55, and L. tropicalis-1:1.31).','-','-'),(8149,'170','Evaluation of Compatibility of Commercial Formulation of Entomopathogenic Fungi, Metarhizium anisopliae 1% WP (Kalichakra) with Different Concentrations of Insecticides under Laboratory Conditions','Ankit Uniyal and Poonam Srivastava','Evaluation-of-Compatibility-of-Commercial-Formulation-of-Entomopathogenic-Fungi,-Metarhizium-anisopliae-1-WP-(Kalichakra)-with-Different-Concentrations-of-Insecticides-under-Laboratory-Conditions-42.pdf','',1,'The present investigation to evaluate the compatibility of entomopathogenic fungi, Metarhizium anisopliae with different concentrations of insecticides was conducted in Insecticides toxicology laboratory, Department of Entomology. Toxicity of five concentrations of two insecticides each, Spinetoram 11.7SC (Delegate) (0.0025, 0.005, 0.01, 0.02 and 0.04%) and Novaluron 5.25 + Indoxacarb 4.5SC (Plethora) (0.005, 0.01, 0.02, 0.04 and 0.06%) was tested against M. anisopliae in vitro. Observation revealed that spinetoram at 0.0025 and 0.005% concentration was found to be compatible and moderately toxic to the fungus as these concentrations recorded less than 50% inhibition and spore count was recorded 64.81 × 104 and 49.94 spores/ml, respectively. Concentration 0.01% was observed toxic and 0.02 and 0.04% each was found to be very toxic. All concentration of novaluron + indoxacarb despite of sufficient mycelium growth was observed very toxic to the fungus as it recorded low number of spore/ml. ','Entomopathogens, IPM, Insecticides, bioagents, Metarhizium anisopliae','Spinetoram was found to be less toxic to M. anisopliae at lower concentration and the toxicity increased with the increase in concentration as T value was decreasing. At lower concentrations not more than 50% of inhibition was found. However, another insecticide novaluron + indoxacarb despite of having a significant difference in radial growth of mycelium and less than 50% inhibition at lower concentration, was found to be very toxic at each concentration as it recorded significantly smaller number of spores.','-','Ankit Uniyal and Poonam Srivastava (2023). Evaluation of Compatibility of Commercial Formulation of Entomopathogenic Fungi, Metarhizium anisopliae 1% WP (Kalichakra) with Different Concentrations of Insecticides under Laboratory Conditions. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 15(12): 227-231.'),(8150,'170','Quality Properties of Forage Maize and Sweet Sorghum Silage at Different Harvest Stages','E. Poojasree, R.V.T. Balazzii Naaiik, T. Sukruth Kumar and K. Bhanu Rekha','Quality-Properties-of-Forage-Maize-and-Sweet-Sorghum-Silage-at-Different-Harvest-Stages-E-Poojasree-43.pdf','',1,'The present study conducted during kharif 2022 on sandy loam soil of ARI, AICRP on Forage Crops and Utilization, Rajendranagar, Hyderabad. The experiment was laid out in randomized block design with factorial concept with factor (A) as six varieties (four fodder maize varieties: African tall, J-1006, TSFM 15-5 and DHM-117 and two sweet sorghum varieties: CSH-22SS and CSV-49SS) and factor (B) as three phenophases/harvest stages (milky stage, soft dough stage and dent stage for maize/hard dough stage for sorghum) with three replications. The test crops were sown on 25th July 2022 adopting spacing of 30 cm × 10 cm. In terms of silage quality, fodder maize variety (J-1006) recorded significantly higher moisture content, lactic acid concentration and desirable pH. On the other hand, crude protein content of silage across varieties was on par with each other. While, crude protein yield was higher for African tall variety. Sweet sorghum variety (CSH-22SS) recorded higher TSS and African tall recorded higher ADF and NDF content. The silage quality parameters (pH and crude protein yield) increased as the crop advanced towards maturity. On the other hand, crude protein content, moisture content and TSS of silage decreased from milky stage to dent stage. ADF and NDF content in silage were higher in the crop ensiled at dent stage. It can be concluded that, among six fodder varieties tested, fodder maize variety (J-1006) registered significantly superior silage quality parameters.','Silage, Forage Maize, Sweet Sorghum, pH, lactic acid','Based on the research results of the present study it can be concluded that, fodder maize variety J-1006 recorded significantly superior quality parameters like higher lactic acid concentration (3.2%), crude protein (5.6%), optimum ADF (44.3%), NDF (63.7%) and desirable pH (3.9) ensiled at milky stage of harvest.','-','E. Poojasree, R.V.T. Balazzii Naaiik, T. Sukruth Kumar and K. Bhanu Rekha (2023). Quality Properties of Forage Maize and Sweet Sorghum Silage at Different Harvest Stages. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 15(12): 232-235.'),(8151,'170','Management of Early Blight of Potato by using Newer Fungicides','Prasad P.S., Manjamma D., Sadanand K. Mushrif, Anjaneya Reddy B., H. Amarananjundeswara, Manjunath Hubballi and Mohan Kumar S. ','Management-of-Early-Blight-of-Potato-by-using-Newer-Fungicides-Prasad-PS-44.pdf','',1,'Management of early blight of potato caused by Alternaria solani experiment was conducted under in- vitro and in- vivo conditions at College of Horticulture, Bengaluru, and Horticulture Reasearch and Extenstion Centre, Hassan. The contact fungicides such as mancozeb-75% WP, zineb-75% WP, chlorothalonil-75% WP and systemic fungicides like hexaconazole- 5% EC, difenconazole-25% EC, tebuconazole- 25% EC were used at the concentration of 100, 250, 500 and 1000 ppm. Besides combi-products like carbendazim- 25% + mancozeb- 50% WS, tricyclazole-18% + mancozeb-62% WS, captan-70% + hexaconazole-5% WP and zineb- 78% + hexaconazole-4% were used at 500, 1000 and 1500 ppm, respectively along with a control. The same fungicides were taken for the field evaluation at recommended dose of concentrations. The results revealed that under in- vitro evaluation fungicides such as hexaconazole-5% EC, tebuconazole-25% EC, difenoconazole-25% EC, zineb-68% + hexaconazole-4% WP and captan-68% + hexaconazole-5% WP were found to be equally effective and significantly superior with 100 per cent inhibition at all the concentrations, which were on par with mancozeb (100 %) inhibition at 1000 ppm concentrations. At field evaluation, the best treatment was found that zineb-68% + hexaconazole-4% WP fungicide with least per cent disease index (PDI) of 15.11 followed by hexaconazole 5% EC (17.55%) at 65 days after planting.','Management, Early blight, In- vitro, In- vivo, Fungicides, Evaluation','Among ten different fungicides tested under in-vitro, hexaconazole-5% EC, tebuconazole-25% EC, difenoconazole-25% EC, zineb-68% + hexaconazole-4% WP and captan-68% + hexaconazole-5% WP were found equally effective and significantly superior at all the concentrations with 100 per cent inhibition, which were on par with mancozeb-75% WP with inhibition (100%) at 1000 ppm concentration.\r\nAt field evaluation, best fungicides were found that zineb-68% + hexaconazole-4% WP with record of least per cent disease index of (15.11%) followed by hexaconazole-5% EC (17.55%), which was on par with tebuconazole-25% EC (18.58) and difenoconazole-25% EC (18.96 t/ha) at 65 DAP. Whereas, highest tuber yield (18.88 t/ha) was found in zineb-68% + hexaconazole-4% WP, which was on par with hexaconazole-5% EC (17.85 t/ha) and difenoconazole-25% EC (16.66 t/ha), tebuconazole-25% EC (16.00 t/ha), captan-70% + hexaconazole-5% WP (15.54 t/ha). Hence these fungicides can be recommended to the farmers for the effective management of early blight disease on commercial cultivation of potato.\r\n','-','Prasad P.S., Manjamma D., Sadanand K. Mushrif, Anjaneya Reddy B., H. Amarananjundeswara, Manjunath Hubballi and Mohan Kumar S. (2023). Management of Early Blight of Potato by using Newer Fungicides. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 15(12): 236-241.'),(8152,'172','Efficacy of Different Insecticides against Rice Earhead Bug, Leptocorisa acuta\r\n(Thunberg) (Hemiptera : Alydidae)\r\n','Rakshith K.P., Jalgaonkar V.N., Mule R.S., Rajemahadik V.A., Kumud V. Naik, Venkata Srinivasa Chari M., Aboli R.P., Dalvi N.S. and Revanth Reddy S.R.K.','2 Efficacy of Different Insecticides against Rice Earhead Bug, Leptocorisa acuta-Rakshith KP.pdf','',1,'The field experiment for the study of “Efficacy of different insecticides against rice earhead bug, Leptocorisa acuta (Thunberg) (Hemiptera : Alydidae)” was carried out at Department of Agronomy, College of Agriculture, Dapoli, Dist. Ratnagiri, during Kharif 2022-23. The efficacy Buprofezin, Deltamethrin, Dinetofuran, Flonicamid, Imidacloprid, Spriromesifen, Sulphoxaflor was evaluated. Flonicamid was found superior and most effective in controlling rice earhead bug. This was followed by Spiromesifen, Buprofezin, Dinetofuran, Deltamethrin, Imidacloprid and Sulphoxaflor. All the treatments were significantly better over control. ','Rice, Rice earhead bug, Leptocorisa acuta, Efficacy, insecticides.','The data on cumulative mean rice earhead bug population after spraying indicated that all the treatments were recorded significantly less earhead bug population as compared to untreated control. The mean earhead bug population ranged from 0.65 to 1.63 per hill. The studies on the bio-efficacy of various insecticides against rice earhead bug indicated that T4 (Flonicamid 50% WG @ 0.3g) was found to be most effective treatment against rice earhead bug with an incidence of 0.65 earhead bugs/hill at 10 days after spraying. This was followed by T6 (Spiromesifen 22.9% SC @ 0.8ml) which recorded 0.77 earhead bugs/hill. The next best treatments were T1 and T3 (Buprofezin 25% SC @ 2ml and Dinetofuran 20% SG @ 0.3g) were at par with each other which recorded 0.91 and 1.00 eahead bugs/hill, respectively. The next best treatments in descending order were T2, T5 and T7 (Deltamethrin 11% EC @ 0.3ml, Imidacloprid 17.8% SL @ 0.2ml and Sulphoxaflor 24% SC @ 0.8ml) and were at par with each other scoring 1.02, 1.05 and 1.15 earhead bugs/hill, respectively. The maximum infestation 1.63 earhead bugs/hill was noticed in untreated control. \r\nThe efficacy Buprofezin, Deltamethrin, Dinetofuran, Flonicamid, Imidacloprid, Spriromesifen, Sulphoxaflor was evaluated against rice earhead bug. The least mean population of rice earhead bug 0.65 /hill was observed in the plot treated with Flonicamid. The treatment Flonicamid 50 WG was found superior and most effective in controlling infestation of rice earhead bug\r\n','-','Rakshith K.P., Jalgaonkar V.N., Mule R.S.¬¬¬, Rajemahadik V.A., Kumud V. Naik, Venkata Srinivasa Chari M., Aboli R.P., Dalvi. N.S. and Revanth Reddy S.R.K. (2024). Efficacy of different insecticides against rice earhead bug, Leptocorisa acuta (Thunberg) (Hemiptera : Alydidae). Biological Forum – An International Journal, 16(1): 07-10.'),(8153,'33','Festival as an important role of the life cycle of Santal community','Jogendranath Murmu','Festival as an important role of the life cycle of Santal community-Jogendranath Murmu-47.pdf','',1,'The paper studied the annual celebrations and worshiper of festivals in Santal community.\r\nTraditionally various kind of festival celebrations are prevailing throughout the year by the Santal tribe. The\r\nfestival has associated with performative practice of songs, dense, set of musical instruments and rituals. These\r\nfestivals imitate the socio-religious significance of the Santal Community and also traces the link between\r\ntradition, ritual, and peaceful coexistence within the ritual beliefs which become as a part of Indian culture.\r\nThere are two type of festivals are seen in Santal community. One is family festivals and other is social festivals.\r\nThe family festivals are held on every Santal family where all the family members, lineage and relatives are\r\nassembled at the festival celebrating place. The social festivals are held on every Santal village where all\r\nvillagers assembled in a secrete place call Jaher Than. The place ‘Jaher Than’ is adjoining the Santal village\r\nwith a grove of their national tree. In this place they offer worship to God Marang Buru, Godes Jaher Ayo,\r\nGod Dhorom-Karom, God More-Ko-Turui-Ko, etc. The festival celebrations day and time will be choosing to\r\ndepend upon the new moon and full moon. These festivals are established ‘life cycle rituals’ which are played\r\nto important role to construct the santal identity. In this view, the modern era is one of the most important\r\nissues because of the chances of the mixing of modern cultures losing their identity. Therefore, we have been\r\nchallenged to protect the Santal identity by celebrating traditional festivals that are intimately related to their\r\nlife cycle. In this connection some researcher applied descriptive research methods to acquire knowledge\r\nthrough close participate and observation of the festivals. The study has argued the preoperational\r\ndevelopment of society which is consummate the measure of solidity in the natural environment. The cultural\r\nactivities have been make a ‘prior discourse’ lay out performative practice which are going to a celebration of\r\nthe festivals and consisted a cultural identity of santal community.','Santal Community, Festivals, Cultural Identity, God like Marang Buru, etc.','On the above discussion, the traditional Santal festivals has profound significance social and cultural life of Santal\r\ntribe and people are gating knowledge form these festivals where the valuable socio-ethical practice related to respect\r\nthe nature, respect to the land, and respect to the people. The Santal festivals significantly impact the social and\r\nreligious life of Santal people. It is important for people to value and respect their own society, culture, and religion.\r\nThe festival provide the occasion to worship together as a community with a religious identity. As a result, these\r\nfestivals preserve the Santal rituals, dance, musical instrument, songs, dress and religious belief. Therefore, Santal\r\nfestivals are one of the most important part for the whole life cycle of tribal community.','[1]. P. D. Mukhopadhyaya, (2014). \"A few things about something: Tribal education in india,\" in Tribal education in\r\nindia: Challenges & Strategies, Kolkata, Firma Klm Private Limited, 257B., B.B. Ganguly Street, Kolkata-700012,\r\nIndia, 2014, p. 1.\r\n[2]. A. K. Singh, Tribal Festivals of Bihar: A Functional Analysis, Vol. 5, Concept Publishing Company., 1982.\r\n[3]. B. Murmu, HOR SERENG, Jhargram: Marshal Bamber, Adibashi Market, Jhargram, 1991.\r\n[4]. R. Murmu, Jaher Bonga Santarh Ka, Hooghly: Adim Publication, Kolkata-677, Black-O, Flat No-3, New Alipur,\r\nKalkata-53, 2001.\r\n[5]. D. K. Tudu, Santali Folk Literature, Ranchi: Nawalti art press, Man road 5, Ranchi-834001, 2008.\r\n[6]. A. Chaudhuri, State Formation Among Tribals A Quest for Santal Identity, New Delhi: Gyan Publishing House,\r\n2013.\r\n[7]. W. Archer, THE HILL OF FLUTES Life, Love and Poetry in Tribal India A Portrait of The Santals, Delhi: ISHA\r\nBOOKS Delhi-110009, 2016, pp. 195-213.\r\n[8]. E. T. Dalton, Descriptive Ethnology of bengal, Calcutta: Asiatic Society of Bengal, 1872, p. 213.\r\n[9]. B. Mandi, Santali Loko-Sanskriti, Medinipur: Satyanarayan Press, Habibpur, Medinipur, 1983.\r\n[10]. S. K. Bhowmik, Santali Gan O Kavita Sankalan, New Dilhi: Sahitya Academy, Rabindrabhaban, 35 Phirojshaha\r\nroad, new Delhi 110001, 1996.\r\n[11]. K. Mandi, Santal Pujo Parban, Purulia, Weat Bengal: Akhar Binyash, Ranchi road, Vidyasagar pally, Purulia,\r\n2008.\r\n\r\n[12]. T. M. D.N. Majumdar, An Introduction to Social Anthropology, Delhi: Mayoor Paperbacks, Sector-5, A-\r\n95Noida-201301, 1985.',' '),(8154,'170','Weed Dynamics and Yield of Wheat as Influenced by N-Scheduling and Weed Management Practices','Vivek Bhagat, Santosh Kumar, Dhamni Patyal, Kamaldeep Kaur, Teesha Manhas and Shivani Thakur ','45-Weed-Dynamics-and-Yield-of-Wheat-as-Influenced-by-N-Scheduling-and-Weed-Management-Practices-Vivek-Bhagat-45.pdf','',1,'In the year 2018 and 2019, a field trial on wheat was performed in the Rabi season. The experiment was laid out in split plot design and replicated thrice. The nitrogen scheduling includes N1- ½ basal + ¼ at 4WAS + ¼ at 8 WAS, N2 -⅓ at 4 WAS + ⅓ at 8 WAS + ⅓ at 10 WAS, N3 -¼ at 4 WAS + ¼ at 6 WAS + ¼ at 8 WAS + ¼ at 10 WAS while weed management treatment were W2 -clodinafop @ 60 g/ha, W3 -sulfosulfuron @ 25 g/ha, W4 -carfentrazone @ 20g/ha along with weed free and weedy check. The results revealed that the lowest weed density, dry matter accumulation, weed index, maximum weed control efficiency and yield were recorded under W3- sulfosulfuron @ 25 g/ha which was at par W4- carfentrazone @ 20 g/ha and found significantly superior over W4- clodinafop @ 60 g/ha. N3 -¼ at 4 WAS + ¼ at 6 WAS + ¼ at 8 WAS + ¼ at 10 WAS + W3 -sulfosulfuron @ 25 g/ha recorded significantly maximum which was significantly superior at 30 and 60 DAS over all the treatments during both the year of experimentation.','Weed density, Weed Dry Matter, Herbicide, Nitrogen Scheduling, Yield','On the basis of results summarized above, it can be concluded that the application of N3 -¼ at 4 WAS + ¼ at 6 WAS + ¼ at 8 WAS + ¼ at 10 WAS + W3- sulfosulfuron @ 25 g/ha gave best results in respect to all the weed and yield parameters and second-best treatment was N3 -¼ at 4 WAS + ¼ at 6 WAS + ¼ at 8 WAS + ¼ at 10 WAS + W4- carfentrazone @ 20 g/ha during both the year of experimentation.','-','Vivek Bhagat, Santosh Kumar, Dhamni Patyal, Kamaldeep Kaur, Teesha Manhas and Shivani Thakur (2023). Weed Dynamics and Yield of Wheat as Influenced by N-Scheduling and Weed Management Practices. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 15(12): 242-246.'),(8155,'170','Response of Foliar Sprays of Micronutrient Formulations Grades on Kharif Onion','A.G. Durgude, I.R. Bagwan and Shubhangi R. Kadam','Response-of-Foliar-Sprays-of-Micronutrient-Formulations-Grades-on-Kharif-Onion-Bagwan-Ikbal-Rajjak-46.pdf','',1,'A field experiment was conducted on Response of foliar sprays of micronutrient formulations grades on Kharif onion at Micronutrient Research Project, Department of Soil Science, Mahatma Phule Krishi Vidyapeeth Rahuri, Dist. Ahmednagar) on silty clay textural soil (Typic Ustorthent) for three consecutive years of 2016 to 2019 during Kharif season. The soil was deficient in available iron, zinc and boron however, sufficient in manganese and copper. The treatments comprised of only GRDF (100:50:50 kgha-1 N: P2O5: K2O + 20 tha-1 FYM and GRDF with two foliar sprays of water spray, Government notified micro grade II and Phule micro grade II (A and B @ 0.2 and 0.3 %) respectively. The pooled results revealed that the treatment GRDF + Two foliar sprays of Phule micro grade II ‘B’ @ 0.3 % resulted in significant increase in plant height (60.27 cm), number of leaves (9.01), total chlorophyll content in fresh leaves (2.00 mg g-1), agronomic efficiency (1.88 kg kg-1), bulb (23.10 t ha-1) and stover yield (13.58 q ha-1), total uptake of N (56.91 kg ha-1), P (25.20 kg ha-1), K (81.97 kg ha-1), Fe (1509 g ha-1), Zn (454 g ha-1), Mn (389 g ha-1), Cu (222.1 g ha-1), B (259 g ha-1) and also higher returns per rupees (B:C ratio of 2.20). ','Micronutrient foliar sprays, nutrient uptake, yield of kharif onion','Foliar application of Phule micro grade-II ‘B’ (Fe 3%, Zn 5%, Mn 0.5%, B 0.5%, Cu 0.5%) @ 0.3% at35 and 55 days after transplanting of onion seedlings along with general recommended dose of fertilizers (100:50:50 kg ha-1 N:P2O5:K2O + 20 t ha-1 FYM) found beneficial for increase in bulb yield, nutrient uptake, agronomic efficiency and higher monetary returns on shallow silty clay soils of Western Maharashtra.','-','A.G. Durgude, I.R. Bagwan and Shubhangi R. Kadam (2023). Response of Foliar Sprays of Micronutrient Formulations Grades on Kharif Onion. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 15(12): 247-251.'),(8156,'170','Combining Ability Effects for Juice Yield and its Contributing Traits in Sweet Sorghum [Sorghum bicolor (L.) moench]','A.U. Ingle, D.V. Kusalkar, S.S. Gare, G.M. Hamane and N.S. Kute','Combining-Ability-Effects-for-Juice-Yield-and-its-Contributing-Traits-in-Sweet-Sorghum-[Sorghum-bicolor-(L.)-moench]-AU-Ingle-47.pdf','',1,'Research investigation was carried out with 45 new hybrids of sweet sorghum developed by crossing 3 male sterile lines with 15 restorers in L × T mating design and were grown in randomized block design (RBD) with three replications during Kharif-2019. Parents RSSV-355, RSSV-512, RSSV-454 and RSSV-498 were observed as good general combiners for juice yield and its contributing traits. Among the lines, CMS-1409 has been observed best general combiner for juice yield and its contributing traits. Out of 45 hybrids, 14 hybrids recorded significant positive SCA effects, among which, cross combinations CMS-1409 × RSSV-499, CMS-185A × RSV-350 and CMS-185A × RSV- 498 exhibited high sca effects for juice yield, with high SCA effects for its contributing characters. Based on per se performance, GCA effects of parents, SCA effects of hybrids and heterotic performance for yield, the cross combinations viz., CMS-1409 × RSSV-512, ICMS-479 × RSSV-355 and CMS-1409 × RSSV-499, CMS-1409 × RSSV-498 and CMS-1409 × RSSV-355 appeared to be the most promising. ','Combining ability, Sweet Sorghum, Juice yield, SCA effects','The parents RSSV-355, RSSV-512, RSSV-454 and RSSV-498, were observed good general combiners for juice yield and its contributing traits. Among the lines, CMS-1409 has been observed best general combiner for juice yield and most of its contributing traits.\r\nOut of 45 hybrids, 14 hybrids recorded significant positive sca effects, among which, cross CMS-1409 x RSSV-499 (high x low), CMS-185A x RSV-350 (low x high) and CMS-185A x RSV-498 (low x high) combinations exhibited high sca effects for juice yield with high sca effects for juice yield contributing characters. \r\n','-','A.U. Ingle, D.V. Kusalkar, S.S. Gare, G.M. Hamane and N.S. Kute (2023). Combining Ability Effects for Juice Yield and its Contributing Traits in Sweet Sorghum [Sorghum bicolor (L.) moench]. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 15(12): 252-257.'),(8157,'170','Constraints Faced by Pearl millet Variety AHB-1200 Adopter and Non-adopter in Chhatrapati Sambhaji Nagar District of Marathwada Region','Pallavi U. Wankhade, Digamber S. Perke, Dheeraj T. Pathrikar ','Constraints-Faced-by-Pearl-millet-Variety-AHB-1200-Adopter-and-Non-adopter-in-Chhatrapati-Sambhaji-Nagar-District-of-Marathwada-Region-Pallavi-U-Wankhade-48.pdf','',1,'Pearl millet [Pennisetum glaucum (L.) R.Br.] or commonly known as bajra (2n = 14) belonging to the family Poaceae. It is the sixth major cereal in terms of area and production and has the highest drought tolerance potential among all millets. Pearl millet constitute an important source of food and fodder for millions of resource-poor farmers and play a vital role in ecological and economic security of India. Study has been taken up to analyse the constraints from the farmers perspective because there were some problems faced by farmers while Pearl millet production. various factors affects while production like shortage of labour, high labour cost, high cost of input, weed infestation and yield loss due to climate change etc. The study was conducted in Chhatrapati Sambhaji Nagar district of Maharashtra state. For this study, an interview schedule was prepared. The study was conducted in two blocks of Chhatrapati Sambhaji Nagar district of Maharashtra. A total of 120 respondents were selected for the study i.e., 60 adopter and 60 non-adopters. Garrett Ranking Technique was used to analyze constraints faced by AHB-1200 adopter and non-adopter. The result showed that shortage of labour, high labour cost, weed infestation, yield loss due to climate change, high cost of input, were major constraints noted by adopters. In addition to this, lack of knowledge on improved varieties, lack of education, high cost of input, were major constraints noted by non-adopters. ','Constraints, adopter, non-adopter, Garrett ranking','Constraints were reported by the adopter and non-adopter farmers, in which shortage of labour, high labour cost, weed infestation, yield loss due to climate change, high cost of input, were major constraints noted by adopters. In addition to this, lack of knowledge on improved varieties, lack of education, high cost of input, were major constraints noted by non-adopters. Shortage of labour and high labour cost was found the major constraints faced by farmers. Governments should provide subsidies or incentives to farmers for invest in machinery, promote the use of advanced farming techniques like precision agriculture, and support research into labour-saving innovations.','-','Pallavi U. Wankhade, Digamber S. Perke, Dheeraj T. Pathrikar (2023). Constraints Faced by Pearl millet Variety AHB-1200 Adopter and Non-adopter in Chhatrapati Sambhaji Nagar District of Marathwada Region. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 15(12): 258-260.'),(8158,'172','Mango Black Banded Disease: Exploring Morphological and Cultural Aspects of Peziotrichum corticolum (MASSEE) Subramanian','M.C. Parmar, H. Sharma, and R.R. Mevada','Mango-Black-Banded-Disease-Exploring-Morphological-and-Culrural-Aspects-of-Peziotrichum-corticolum-(MASSEE)-Subramanian-MC-Parmar-3.pdf','',1,'Black banded disease of mango (Mangifera indica L.) caused by Peziotrichum corticolum (Massee) Subramanian, has become increasingly problematic in recent years, inflicting damage on midribs, twigs, branches, and veins of leaves. This study clearly confirmed the identification of the causative agent as Peziotrichum corticolum. The investigation delved into the diverse cultural and morphological characteristics of P. corticolum across six distinct media at a consistent room temperature of 27±1ºC, including Potato dextrose agar, Nutrient agar, Czapek’s agar, Oatmeal agar, Host extract dextrose agar, and PDA + sugar. Notably, Potato dextrose agar, Oatmeal agar, PDA + sugar, and Czapek’s agar emerged as the most supportive media for maximal mycelial growth of P. corticolum on the 12th day post-incubation, while Host extract dextrose agar exhibited the least radial growth. Cultures of P. corticolum showcased significant diversity in cultural characteristics such as the type of growth, mycelial color, pigmentation, and colony margin.','Mango black banded, Peziotrichum corticolum (Massee) Subramanian, and Morphological and Cultural characters, Media','In conclusion, this study definitively identifies Peziotrichum corticolum as the causative agent of black banded disease in mango trees. Through a thorough investigation of cultural and morphological characteristics on various media, it was determined that Potato dextrose agar, Oatmeal agar, PDA + sugar, and Czapek’s agar are the most conducive for maximal mycelial growth of P. corticolum. The study highlights significant diversity in cultural traits among different media, including variations in growth type, mycelial color, pigmentation, and colony margin. These findings contribute valuable insights into the biology and optimal growth conditions of P. corticolum, providing a foundation for further research and potential management strategies for mitigating the impact of black banded disease on mango crops.','-','M.C. Parmar, H. Sharma, and R.R. Mevada (2024). Mango Black Banded Disease: Exploring Morphological and Culrural Aspects of Peziotrichum corticolum (MASSEE) Subramanian. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 16(1): 11-14.'),(8159,'170','Effect of Different Fertilizer Levels and Biostimulants on Quality and Economics of Cabbage (Brassica oleracea var. capitata)','J.H. Brahmbhatt, G.S. Patel, S.K. Acharya, S.P. Chaudhari and D.L. Paramar ','Effect-of-Different-Fertilizer-Levels-and-Biostimulants-on-Quality-and-Economics-of-Cabbage-(Brassica-oleracea-var-capitata)-J-H-Brahmbhatt-49.pdf','',1,'To study the influence of different fertilizer levels and biostimulants on quality and economics of cabbage (Brassica oleracea var. capitata) was carried out on Golden Acre during rabi season of 2021-22 and 2022-23 at College farm, College of Horticulture, Sardarkrushinagar Dantiwada Agricultural University, Jagudan, Dist. Mehsana, Gujarat, India. Present investigation comprising three factors viz., three levels of fertilizer viz., 60 % RDF (f1), 80 % RDF (f2) and 100 % RDF (f3), biostimulant with three levels viz., Jeevamrut (b1), Vermiwash (b2) and Bio NPK Consortium (b3) and three levels of novel organic liquid nutrient viz., 1.0 % (n1), 1.5 % (n2) and 2.0 % (n3). Among three fertilizer levels of chemical source application of 100% RDF (f1) helped in obtaining maximum value ofquality parameters viz., diameter of head (cm) and chlorophyll a, b and total chlorophyll at 45 DAT (mg/g), Among three biostimulants application of jeevamrut(b1)showed maximum values for quality parameters viz., diameter of head (cm) and among three different novel culture application of novel organic liquid nutrient @ 2.0 % (n3) showed maximum values for quality parameters viz., diameter of head (cm). While, interaction effect between fertilizer levels and biostimulant (f × b) shows significantly maximum diameter of head (cm) with the treatment combination of 100 % RDF + jeevamtut (f3b1). Economically, it can be concluded that treatment combination in application of 100% recommended dose of fertilizer with the soil application of jeevamrut and foliar spray of novel organic liquid nutrient in cabbage during rabi season which is the better in terms of maximum gross return, net return and benefit: cost ratio. Recently, the concept of integrated nutrient management towards better crop production has paved the way for sustainable horticulture. The basic principles lie in maintenance of soil fertility through judicious use of inorganic fertilizers and organic manures. Organic manures act potential sources of not only for macro nutrients but also micronutrients, but the quantity varies depending upon the nature, sources and extent of decomposition. Hence, there is urgent need to improve organic fertilizers with natural minerals through biological processes. ','Cabbage, Biostimulant, Jeevamrut, Vermiwash, Bio NPK Consortium, novel organic liquid nutrient','On the basis of experimental evidence, best quality and profitable income from cabbage cultivation can be obtained with the combined application of 100% recommended dose of fertilizer with the soil application of jeevamrut @ 500 l/ha drenching at 15, 30, 45 and 60 DAT and foliar spray @ 2.0 % of novel organic liquid nutrient at 20 and 40 DAT.','-','J.H. Brahmbhatt, G.S. Patel, S.K. Acharya, S.P. Chaudhari and D.L. Paramar (2023). Effect of Different Fertilizer Levels and Biostimulants on Quality and Economics of Cabbage (Brassica oleracea var. capitata). Biological Forum – An International Journal, 15(12): 261-266.'),(8160,'170','Evaluation of Soybean-based Endophytic Bacterium Pseudomonas moraviensis PSSI3 for its Multifarious Plant Growth Promoting Potential in Soybean (Glycine max (L.) Merr.)','Bundela V., Kukreti B., Khan A., Kumar A., Singh T. and Singh A.V. ','Evaluation-of-Soybean-based-Endophytic-Bacterium-Pseudomonas-moraviensis-PSSI3-for-its-Multifarious-Plant-Growth-Promoting-Potential-in-Soybean-(Glycine-max-(L.)-Merr.)-Bundela-V-50.pdf','',1,'Endophytic microorganisms that reside within plant tissues hold immense, yet largely untapped potential for enhancing plant growth and bolstering resilience against both biotic and abiotic stresses. In this study, twenty bacterial endophytes were retrieved from the soybean plants and underwent in vitro assessment for zinc solubilization and siderophores production. Among these strains, one isolate labeled as PSSI3 was identified as Pseudomonas moraviensis through 16S rRNA sequencing, exhibited the most significant growth-promoting qualities. PSSI3 endowed with multiple PGP attributes viz., zinc (8.76±0.17µg/mL), phosphorus (315±11.35 µg/mL), and potassium solubilization (315±11.35 µg/mL), siderophore production (63.06±2.29% unit), nitrogen fixation, HCN and ammonia production, biofilm formation, indole acetic acid (7.26±0.26 µg/mL) and gibberellic acid (20.45±0.73 µg/mL) synthesis. It also demonstrated biocontrol efficacy against fungal pathogens. Antibiotic sensitivity, carbon utilization, and tolerance to polyethylene glycol were examined. PSSI3 when introduced significantly enhanced soybean seedling growth, highlighting the potential of endophytes for impactful applications in crop production. ','Endophytes, Nutrient solubilization, Plant Growth Promotion, Soybean, Pseudomonas moraviensis','This comprehensive investigation sheds light on the multifaceted mechanisms employed by Pseudomonas moraviensis PSSI3 to foster the growth of soybean seedlings. By delving into both direct and indirect pathways, this research illuminates the intricate ways in which endophytic bacteria, particularly PSSI3, can significantly enhance the productivity and health of plants. Moreover, the utilization of such beneficial endophytes not only augments plant growth but also plays a pivotal role in enhancing soil quality and fertility. ','-','Bundela V., Kukreti B., Khan A., Kumar A., Singh T. and Singh A.V. (2023). Evaluation of Soybean-based Endophytic Bacterium Pseudomonas moraviensis PSSI3 for its Multifarious Plant Growth Promoting Potential in Soybean (Glycine max (L.) Merr.). Biological Forum – An International Journal, 15(12): 267-277.'),(8161,'170','In-vitro Evaluation of Fungicides against Sheath Blight (Rhizoctonia solani) Disease of Rice','Prabhat Kumar, Anupam Kumar, Vinod Kumar, Rajan Kamboj, Ravinder, Shivani Kaundal, Sahil Chaudhary, Preeti Thakur, Neeraj Bhardwaj and Ashish ','In-vitro-Evaluation-of-Fungicides-against-Sheath-Blight-(Rhizoctonia-solani)-Disease-of-Rice-Anupam-Kumar-51.pdf','',1,'Rice (Oryza sativa) is one of the major food crops of the world and is the staple food for more than half of the world’s population. It is an important cereal crop of India, affected by various fungal, bacterial and viral diseases, Sheath blight of rice caused by Rhizoctonia solani has become a major constraint to rice production. In order to combat this menace, an assessment of three fungicides namely Mancozeb, Mancozeb + Carbendazim, and Propiconazole was conducted at concentrations of 100 ppm, 200 ppm, and 300 ppm. The evaluation involved monitoring radial growth after 24 hours, 48 hours, and 72 hours of incubation. The findings unequivocally established the efficacy of all tested fungicides, significantly surpassing the control group in inhibiting the radial growth of R. solani. Remarkably, maximum growth inhibition, reaching 100%, was consistently observed across all treatments at 24 and 48 hours. Notably, treatments T1 through T6, encompassing various concentrations (100 ppm, 200 ppm, and 300 ppm), exhibited complete growth inhibition. However, at 72 hours, Propiconazole (T9) exhibiting a slightly lower growth inhibition of 95.45%, followed by T8 (93.95%) and T7 (92.50%), yet still show casing commendable efficacy. Overall, the study underscores the effectiveness of Mancozeb, Mancozeb + Carbendazim, and Propiconazole in combatting sheath blight in rice, with the latter two fungicides proving particularly potent in achieving complete inhibition of R. solani growth, even at varied concentrations, after 72 hours of exposure.','Rice, Rhizoctonia solani, fungicides, inhibition and management','It was observed that Mancozeb and Mancozeb + Carbendazim were found most effective resulting complete inhibition of growth of Rhizoctonia solani at all concentration while Propiconazole showed least radial growth after 72 hours.','-','Prabhat Kumar, Anupam Kumar, Vinod Kumar, Rajan Kamboj, Ravinder, Shivani Kaundal, Sahil Chaudhary, Preeti Thakur, Neeraj Bhardwaj and Ashish (2023). In-vitro evaluation of Fungicides against Sheath Blight (Rhizoctonia solani) Disease of Rice. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 15(12): 278-281.'),(8162,'171','Konso Goat Performance under Community-Based Breeding Program','Dereje Dea','Konso-Goat-Performance-under-Community-Based-Breeding-Program-Dereje-Dea-Damana-1.pdf','',1,'The current study was aimed to evaluate Konso goat performance under community based breeding program (CBBP) in Konso zone. Konso goat performance under farmer community level management was not evaluated yet to exploit its potential. Hence, five consecutive years’ data (2018-2022) from three villages (Baide, Arfayde and Jarso), a total of 283 cooperative members and 1859 goat flock size were used for the performance analysis. Means were separated by Duncan multiple range test at α 0.05. Village, month, year, sex, birth type and parity were used as fixed effects for the birth weight (BW), weaning weight (WW), six months weight (6MW), nine months weight (9MW), yearling weight (12MW) and mature weights’ (MW) response variables. An overall findings revealed that goats in the study areas have showed that the BW, WW, 6MW, 9MW, 12MW and MW were 2.56, 9.48, 14.61, 18.56, 19.37 and 27.04 kg, respectively. Except WW, the rest of the growth parameters were significantly affected by Village (P<0.05). On the other side, mature weight was not affected by kidding months (P>0.05), and yearling weight was also not affected by kidding year. Kid sex was not affected 6MW and 12MW (P>0.05). Additionally, birth type hasn’t affected BW, 6MW and 12MW. Finally, all the growth parameters weren’t significantly affected (P>0.05) by parity. These findings have revealed that resource-poor participatory goat breeding program should be further monitored and evaluated based on the above mentioned factors’ in short and long term plans for the Konso goat breed genetic improvement. ','Community-Based Breeding Program, Goat, Konso, Performance, Selection','The six years’ performances progress from 2018-2022 were evaluated for Konso goat community-based breeding program. The mean birth, weaning, six months, nine months, yearling and mature body weights (kg) were 2.56, 9.48, 14.61, 18.56, 19.37 and 27.04, respectively. The village, month, year and sex were affected birth weight whereas birth type and parity not affected. Weaning weight was also significantly affected by month, year, sex and birth type. Six month was significantly affected by village, month and year. Nine moth was significantly affected by village, month, year, sex and birth type. Yearling weight was significantly affected by both village and month. The higher frequency of the kidding was observed in May, February and April months. \r\nBirth weight and yearling weight were better estimated by sex of the goat whereas weaning weight was more predicted by village, month, year and sex of the goat. Furthermore, 6MW was more predicted by year and sex of the goat. Finally, nine month weight was better estimated by village, year and sex of the goat. \r\nThese findings have shown that resource-poor participatory goat breeding program should be further monitored and evaluated based on the above mentioned factors’ in short and long term plans for the Konso goat breed genetic improvement. \r\n','-','-'),(8163,'172','Study of Therapeutic Management of Canine Demodecosis','Kavita Jaidiya, Durga Bai Sodha, Sulochana Dariya and Chitra Jaidiya','Study-of-Therapeutic-Management-of-Canine-Demodecosis-Kavita-Jaidiya-4.pdf','',1,'Canine demodecosis is a prevalent skin disorder. A total of 24 canines presented to VCC with a history of itching, baldness, hyper pigmentation, and crust formation at specific locations on the body. Following a general evaluation, the physiological parameters were confirmed to be within normal limits. A total of 24 skin scrapings were obtained to detect mites. Deep skin scrapings were taken using a blunt scarpel thoroughly disinfected in 70% alcohol or over a gas flame. A drop of liquid paraffin was applied to the center of the glass slide. The scarpel\'s edge was dipped in liquid paraffin before being collected. A fold of skin was pinched with the lesion between the thumb and forefinger, and the crust of the fold was scraped thoroughly with a blade or blunt scalpel until blood poured out. The acquired skin scraping samples were placed in a 15 ml glass centrifuge tube, and 5 ml of 10% potassium hydroxide (KOH) solution was added. The substance was then gradually repaired until the particles had dissolved appropriately. The material was then centrifuged at 3000 revolutions per minute for 5 minutes. A pipette was used to drain the supernatant fluid and put 1-2 drops of sediment to a thin glass slide. The cover slip was then placed on the slide and checked for mites using a microscope with a low power lens. The treatment began with a tablet of Neomec (Ivermectin) 400mcg/kg body weight once daily orally until two consecutive negative results for Demodex canis were obtained, followed by a tablet of Avil (25 mg) once every five days. During this time, the patient was advised to take a wash with Ketochlor shampoo followed by a bath with Ridd solition (3 ml in one litre of water). Syrup Nutricoat was also administered orally. After three months of treatment, the dogs recovered without incident, with all lesions completely healed.','Demodecosis, Folliculities, Ridd','Demodicosis was diagnosed in a large percentage of dogs with dermatological lesions. Long-term oral ivermectin, topical amitraz, and nutritional therapy are effective treatments for canine demodicosis.','-','Kavita Jaidiya, Durga Bai Sodha, Sulochana Dariya and Chitra Jaidiya (2024). Study of Therapeutic Management of Canine Demodecosis. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 16(1): 15-17.'),(8164,'170','Precision and Progress: A Comprehensive Study of Dairy Packaging Machinery','Sharanabasava, Nagaratna, Devaraju and Akshay Kumar','Precision-and-Progress-A-Comprehensive-Study-of-Dairy-Packaging-Machinery-Sharanabasava-52.pdf','',1,'The main goal of dairy packaging, much like any other food packaging, is to shield the food from potential damage (such as physical harm, contamination by microbes, etc.) while upholding the top-notch quality of the product. Ideally, packaging should minimize both weight loss and nutrient depletion, while also extending the shelf life of the product. Packing machines play crucial roles in containing, safeguarding, communicating, and providing utility for the packaged items. This section will examine various types of packaging machines, exploring their capabilities, operational principles, and other defining features.','Packaging, shelf life, machine, dairy, principles','The packaging line combines materials science and industrial engineering, and advancements in these fields have aided packaging innovation. Flexible wrappers and bags with tear strips or laser cut to make them easy to open or innovative tamper-evident technologies to provide the brand owner and the consumer certainty about the integrity of the goods are now commonplace. Bottles are currently being molded from resin, filled, sealed, marked, cartonned, and palletized on complete packaging lines with a high automation control and inspection level. As a result of these advances, a wide range of packaging machinery is now required.','-','Sharanabasava, Nagaratna, Devaraju and Akshay Kumar (2023). Precision and Progress: A Comprehensive Study of Dairy Packaging Machinery. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 15(12): 282-294.'),(8165,'156','Statical Analysis of Rainfall Trends of Shimla District, Himachal Pradesh','Prithi Pal Singh and M.R. Sharma','Statical-Analysis-of-Rainfall-Trends-of-Shimla-District-Himachal-Pradesh-Prithi-Pal-Singh-158.pdf','',1,'The study faced challenges in dealing with the inherent variability and complexity of rainfall patterns in Shimla District, requiring a meticulous examination of long-term data and the application of various statistical techniques. Additionally, the unpredictability of climatic conditions and the potential impact of climate change posed challenges in projecting accurate future rainfall values.\r\nDespite these challenges, the study contributes significantly to the field. It provides a thorough statistical analysis of 29 years of rainfall data in Shimla District, shedding light on mean, standard deviation, coefficient of variation, skewness, and kurtosis for both monthly and annual rainfall. The identification of an erratic rainfall pattern, particularly highlighted by the coefficient of variation, offers valuable insights for engineering projects and water resource planning.\r\nFurthermore, the study employs various plotting position formulae and probability distribution functions to assess the return period of yearly rainfall. The adoption of the Chegodayev technique as the most fitting distribution for yearly rainfall data enhances the accuracy of return period projections. According to this technique, the projected rainfall for return periods of 5, 10, 50, 100, and 150 years is estimated at 1040.25 mm, 1112.57 mm, 1691.16 mm, 2414.40 mm and 3137.64 mm respectively. These estimated rainfall values for different return periods provide crucial information for designing resilient engineering structures and facilitating informed decision-making for water resource planners, farmers and urban planners. This comprehensive analysis contributes to a better understanding of rainfall dynamics in Shimla District, offering practical implications for infrastructure development and water management in the region.\r\n','Statistical Analysis, Shimla (H.P), Return Period, Rainfall Data','The statistical analysis of the rainfall data from 1994 to 2022 in Shimla District, Himachal Pradesh, aimed to comprehend the rainfall patterns in the region. Key parameters such as mean, standard deviation and coefficient of variation were calculated for both yearly and monthly rainfall to assess variability. The outcomes revealed an erratic rainfall pattern, with the highest recorded rainfall of 1392.90 mm in 2022 and the lowest at 737.72 mm in 2004. The average annual rainfall over the 29-year period amounted to 1035.30 mm. July exhibited the highest mean rainfall at 217.41 mm, while November recorded the least at 15.96 mm.\r\nThe analysis identified significant variability in rainfall data, particularly in October, November and December (142.91%, 185.94%, and 120.26%, respectively). In contrast, May, July and August experienced lower variability at 50.12%, 41.83%, and 36.54% respectively.\r\nThis analysis holds valuable insights for agricultural engineers, farmers and water resource planners. It aids in assessing water availability and designing suitable storage solutions. Given the unpredictable rainfall pattern, the findings can guide the design of effective drainage systems to prevent flooding, stabilize agriculture, and provide long-term security for farmers investments. Additionally, the study contributes to a better understanding of regional and global climate and rainfall patterns.\r\nThe recommendation is made to conduct similar studies for other districts in Himachal Pradesh once adequate data becomes available. Recognizing the impact of short-duration, intense storms versus longer storms with higher constant loading on drainage systems can enhance the precision of future analyses.\r\n','-','Prithi Pal Singh and M.R. Sharma (2023). Statical Analysis of Rainfall Trends of Shimla District, Himachal Pradesh. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 15(4): 957-962.'),(8166,'172','Investigating the Effect of Amla (Emblica officinalis) and Giloy (Tinospora cordifolia) Herbal Additives on the Morphometric Parameters of Magra Lambs in the Semi-intensive Management System in the Arid Zone of Western Rajasthan','Abhishek Joshi, Nirmala Saini, Vishal Yadav, Rajpal Singh Udawat, Rajesh Mohta and S.C. Goswami ','Investigating-the-Effect-of-Amla-(Emblica-officinalis)-and-Giloy-(Tinospora-cordifolia)-Herbal-Additives-on-the-Morphometric-Parameters-of-Magra-Lambs-in-the-Semi-intensive-Management-System-Abhishek-Joshi-5.pdf','',1,'This study aimed to investigate the impact of herbal feed additives, specifically amla (Emblica officinalis) and giloy (Tinospora cordifolia), on the biometrical measurements of Magra lambs in a semi-intensive management system. The experiment was performed on twenty-eight magra lambs of three to four months of age under the semi-intensive system, which were randomly distributed into four experimental groups of seven lambs in each group in a randomized block design (RBD). Herbal feed additive Amla (Emblica officinalis) fruit powder with seed and Giloy (Tinospora cordifolia) stem powder were supplemented at level of 1.5g/kg body weight with concentrate as oral/feed supplemented in T1 and T2 group, respectively except control group and T3 in semi-intensive management system. Group T3was supplemented with the combination of Amla (Emblica officinalis) fruit powder and Giloy (Tinospora cordifolia) stem powder at the level of 0.75g/kg body weight with concentrate as oral/feed. At the end of experiment, significant changes were found in heart girth, abdominal girth, body length and body height though; they were within normal body measurement range. At the end of experiment it appears that incorporation of 1.5g/kg body weight giloy stem powder can be used as a part of the strategy as it is effective to improve morphometric parameters in lambs in the semi-intensive system of arid zone of Rajasthan.','Magra, Heart Girth, Lamb, Body Length, Body Height','Based on the findings, it can be inferred that the incorporation of the herbal feed additives Amla (Emblica officinalis) and Giloy (Tinospora cordifolia) into the diets of Magra lambs under semi-intensive management significantly impacted the morphometric parameters of the lambs.','-','Abhishek Joshi, Nirmala Saini, Vishal Yadav, Rajpal Singh Udawat, Rajesh Mohta and S.C. Goswami (2024). Investigating the Effect of Amla (Emblica officinalis) and Giloy (Tinospora cordifolia) Herbal Additives on the Morphometric Parameters of Magra Lambs in the Semi-intensive Management System in the Arid Zone of Western Rajasthan. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 16(1): 18-21.'),(8167,'171','A 3600 status analysis of Doubling Farmers’ Income Post stipulated deadline in India','Deepak Kumar Patel, Shripati Dwivedi and Sudhanand Prasad Lal','A-360-status-analysis-of-Doubling-Farmers-Income-after-the-Post-stipulated-deadline-in-India-SUDHANAND-PRASAD-LAL-2.pdf','',1,'The aim of Government of India was to double farmers\' income by the end of 2022, when the country marks 75 years of independence. Achieving the goal of doubling farmers\' income in a short period of time required identifying the sources of income growth for farmers and creating the conditions that would allow them to maximize their income growth potential. Based on different literature, we examined the sources of agricultural growth and proposed policy options for making agriculture a remunerative industry. There is no doubt that technology is one of the most important sources of growth, and agricultural research is one of the best ways to grow. To double farmers\' income by 2022, the Indian government formed an inter-ministerial committee in 2016 to assess existing problems. A number of policies, reforms, development programs, and schemes have been adopted and implemented by the Government to increase farmers\' incomes. A continuous improvement of the Indian agriculture sector is necessary to maximize output and ensure food security. The NSSO calculated the average monthly income of agricultural households to be Rs. 6426 in 2012-13 and Rs. 10218 in 2018-19, representing a 62% increase having the compound annual growth rate (CAGR) is 8.0366%. Throughout our review, we examine the concept of doubling farmers\' income, its current status, the efforts by government, and innovative approaches to doubling farmers\' incomes.','Agriculture Sector, Current Progress, Farmers’ Income, Future approaches, Government Schemes','It is not an easy task to double the farmers\' incomes by 2022, but it is a very laudable goal that needs to be achieved. To double farmers\' income, a strategy that focuses on development initiatives, technological advancements, and policy reforms in agriculture needs to be adopted. It is crucial for research institutes to make technological breakthroughs so that the production frontier can be shifted and input efficiency can be raised. There is a need for ICAR and SAUs to develop a model of farming system by combining all their technologies and focusing on farm income as the primary goal. There is only one way to accomplish this, and that is to work relentlessly on gaps and loopholes and with concerted efforts, in accordance with the mission mode action plan, with special attention. The welfare of our farmers has to be the priority when it comes to agricultural development for the development of the national economy, and with a particular focus on the fact that Farmers are the only people in the world who can supply us with the food we need, so we must take care of them. As a result of the high dependence of the Indian agricultural industry on monsoon, there are a number of interventions that can be made, including research, technology promotion, extension, post-harvest management, processing, and marketing, all in accordance with the comparative advantages of each state and region as well as their agro climatic characteristics. Consequently, the country will be able to indeed achieve its goal of doubling farmers\' incomes if it takes this step.','-','-'),(8168,'171','Socio-Economic Characteristics of Pearl Millet Variety AHB-1200 Adopters and Non-Adopters in Chhtrapati Sambhaji Nagar District of Marathwada Region','Pallavi U. Wankhade, Digambar S. Perke and Tukaram B. Munde','Socio-Economic-Characteristics-of-Pearl-Millet-Variety-AHB-1200-Adopters-and-Non-Adopters-in-Chhtrapati-Sambhaji-Nagar-District-of-Marathwada-Region-Pallavi-U-Wankhade-3.pdf','',1,'Present study was designed to study Socio economic characteristics of selected Pearl millet growers in Chhatrapati Sambhaji Nagar district of Maharashtra. The most important factor which decides the awareness and adoption level of any new varieties, methods or technology in agriculture sector is socio-economic conditions of farmers. Using multistage sampling technique two tehsil viz., Paithan and Vaijapur. from Chhatrapati Sambhaji Nagar were selected for study. Total 120 respondents were selected for study i.e. 60 adopter and 60 non-adopters. Paper is focused to assessment the socio-economic characteristics of AHB-1200 adopters and non-adopters like age, gender, education, farm size, annual income, occupation, land holding, family size, farming experience, etc. Study conclude that average age of adopter and non-adopter was 43 and 48. Most of the respondents in study area were male. Average annual income of adopter and non-adopter was 202483.0 and 188800.0. Majority of respondents completed Secondary education. The average size of land holding of AHB-1200 adopter and non-adopter was 2.42 ha and 2.15 ha, respectively. Majority of respondents belongs to nuclear family i.e. 83.33 per cent in adopter and 61.67 per cent in non-adopter whereas just 16.67 per cent adopters and 38.33 per cent non-adopters in the study region are members of the joint family. The study findings demonstrated that adopters of AHB-1200 had higher average level of social participation 0.91 compared to 0.33 for non-adopters.','Pearl millet, occupation, family income, farm size, education','Profile of adopters and non-adopters was more or less similar in respect of age, it was clear from the result that most of the respondents were middle aged and it also concluded that majority of respondents were male. While the other profile of adopter and non-adopter varied in respect of land holding, annual income, social participation. Majority of adopters and non-adopters having nucleus families, regarding to family income it was reported that high in adopter and low in non-adopter. \r\n\r\nAdopters have high level of social participation than non-adopters. Agriculture was reported as major occupation of study area followed by business and service. Large no of semi medium farmers reported in study area followed by small, marginal, medium. Average of family size of adopter and non-adopter was more similar. Farming experience of adopter farmers was more than non-adopter farmers. Land use pattern high in adopter i.e., 2.42 and low in non-adopter. It can be suggested from study that need to adopt recommended improved variety in order to improve livelihood and family income.\r\n','-','-'),(8169,'170','Assessment of Coconut Genotypes for Growth and Yield Parameters','M. Mohanalakshmi, B. Senthamizh Selvi and D. Mastan Vali','53 Assessment of Coconut Genotypes for Growth and Yield Parameters-7781-D Mastan Vali.pdf','',1,'The study was carried out at Coconut nursery, Department of Spices and Plantation crops, Horticultural College and Research Institute, TNAU, Coimbatore during the year 2018-2021 to evaluate coconut genotypes and hybrids for growth and yield. Fourteen genotypes were used for the study. The design of the experiment was Randomized Block Design with two replications with each genotype representing three palms per replication. Among the fourteen genotypes Andaman Ordinary recorded the highest tree height of 12.13 meters and trunk girth in Chandra Laksha ((102.76 cm). Andaman Ordinary recorded maximum number of inflorescence per palm per year ((13.44)) followed by Laccadive Ordinary (13.08) and minimum number of inflorescence were recorded by Kulasekaran Dwarf Green (10.52). The genotype Andaman ordinary recorded more number of bunches per palm per year (12.52) whereas less numbers recorded in Kulasekaran Green Dwarf (9.56) and Malayan Green Dwarf (9.70). Whole nut weight (861.00 g) and dehusked nut weight (385.50 g) were recorded maximum in Laccadive Ordinary. Kernal weight was maximum in Andaman Ordinary (250.02 g) whereas it was minimum in Kulasekaran Green Dwarf (132.90 g). Andaman Ordinary is assessed to be more appropriate for further crop improvement programme under Coimbatore conditions. ','Tall coconut, Andaman Ordinary, Nut, Variability.','It can be concluded from this experiment that among the coconut hybrids/varieties evaluated, Andaman Ordinary was found to be superior in terms of number of bunches per palm per year ,number of nuts per bunch and nut yield over the other varieties and Hybrids. Hence, the variety Andaman Ordinary was considered to be the most suitable for cultivation in Coimbatore conditions Identification of high yielding varieties/hybrids suitable to a particular area is very important to achieve higher production and productivity in coconut.','-','M. Mohanalakshmi, B. Senthamizh Selvi and D. Mastan Vali (2023). Assessment of Coconut Genotypes for Growth and Yield Parameters. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 15(12): 295-299.'),(8170,'170','SSR based Heat Stress Related Primers Optimization for Heat Tolerant and Susceptible Genotypes of Wheat (Triticum aestivum L.)','Prafulla Kumar, Ravindra Kumar, Ankit Agrawal and Neelesh Kapoor','54 SSR based Heat Stress Related Primers Optimization for Heat Tolerant and Susceptible Genotypes of Wheat _Triticum aestivum L.pdf','',1,'PCR has been extensively utilized for the amplification of DNA sequences. In our study, we aimed to identify the optimal amplification conditions for detecting specific SSR polymorphisms associated with heat stress in wheat. Leaf samples from young seedlings were collected, and DNA was isolated from 30 genotypes, representing both heat-tolerant and heat-susceptible types. The extracted DNA from these genotypes underwent PCR optimization. The optimized reaction conditions included a combination of 5 X PCR buffer (3.0 µl), 10 mM MgCl2 (1.2 µl), 200 µM dNTP (3 µl), forward primer (1 µl), reverse primer (1 µl), template DNA (1.5 μl), and 1 unit/ml Taq polymerase (0.5 μl). The PCR protocol comprised an initial denaturation at 95 °C for 7 minutes, followed by 35 cycles of denaturation for 45 seconds at 94°C, annealing for 45 seconds at 48 to 65 °C, extension for 45 seconds at 72°C, and a final extension for 10 minutes at 72 °C. Employing 32 designed SSR primer pairs, the optimized PCR conditions produced well-defined bands for the molecular characterization of heat-tolerant and susceptible wheat genotypes.','PCR, SSR Primers, Optimization, Wheat, Heat Tolerant and Susceptible.','In conclusion, our study demonstrated consistent DNA purity across all samples, aligning with established absorption ratio ranges for satisfactory DNA quality. The quantity of DNA varied among 30 wheat genotypes, with the HS507 sample exhibiting the minimum and the RAJ4083 sample displaying the maximum DNA amount. Variations in DNA quantity were attributed to measurement errors and differential grinding of leaf samples. The absorbance ratios mostly fell within the range of 1.80 to 1.95, indicating superior DNA quality in samples from seedling stage leaves across diverse genotypes. To ensure successful PCR amplification and reproducible polymorphic bands, we optimized concentrations of various reagents. The PCR setup included specific concentrations for MgCl2, Taq polymerase, DNA template, and primers, while maintaining constant buffer and dNTPs concentrations. Optimal results were achieved with 1.2 μl of MgCl2, 0.1 μl of Taq polymerase, template DNA concentrations between 0.5 and 2 μl, and 1.0 μl for both forward and reverse primers. The chosen PCR reagent concentrations produced sharp bands, and the optimal annealing temperature for successful amplification of SSR primers based on heat stress-related candidate genes was determined to be 49-60°C. The primer pair Barc128 exhibited positive amplification in all genotypes, revealing polymorphic bands with distinct molecular weights. This comprehensive optimization process enhances the reliability of PCR results and contributes to the robustness of genomic studies in wheat genomics.','-','Prafulla Kumar, Ravindra Kumar, Ankit Agrawal and Neelesh Kapoor (2023). SSR based Heat Stress Related Primers Optimization for Heat Tolerant and Susceptible Genotypes of Wheat (Triticum aestivum L.). Biological Forum – An International Journal, 15(12): 300-308.'),(8171,'172','Effect of Low Temperature Storage Techniques on Post Storage Quality of Rose cvs. Bordeaux, Poison and Avalanche','R.J. Makwana, Alka Singh and B.K. Dhaduk','Effect of Low Temperature Storage Techniques on Post Storage Quality of Rose cvs. Bordeaux, Poison and Avalanche-RJ Makwana-6.pdf','',1,'An investigation was conducted to study the effect of different cold storage (at 2°C) techniques viz., dry storage with packaging of HDPE, LDPE, PP (polypropylene) and without packaging and wet storage methods of holding cut stems in water, Al2(SO4)3 200mg/l and citric acid 200mg/l solutions on flower quality and vase life of rose cvs., Bordeaux, Poison and Avalanche for the period of 10 days. Wet storage techniques failed to restrict marketable bud stage and showed increased bud opening by the end of the storage period (10 days). Among three packaging films cut flowers packed with PP packaging maintained higher CO2 (9.72%) and decreased O2 (11.24%) per cent within the packaging film as compared to HDPE and LDPE packaging in cold stored rose cut flowers as recorded just after storage. The HDPE, LDPE and PP stored at 2°C rose buds showed significantly, negligible physiological loss in weight, absence of bent neck after storage, higher TDS, dry weight, improved bud size, petal length and width and minimum bent neck during vase life as compared to without packaged stored and wet stored rose buds. Rose cut spikes held in vase solution during low temperature storage showed advance opening of flowers with decrease in vase life upon removal from low temperature storage. Thus PP packed cold stored rose flowers retained best flower quality as well as showed higher vase life as compared to the rose flowers stored with other treatments.','Rose, Polypropylene, low temperature storage, vase life, dry storage and wet storage.','Among different storage techniques (wet and dry storage) rose cut spikes (cv. Bordeaux, Poison and Avlanche) packed with PP (polypropylene) and cold stored at 2oC temperature can help in maintaining flower qualities as similar to fresh flowers up to 10 days of storage. Moreover,cut rose spikes stored with conventional wet storage techniques viz., water, aluminum sulphate or citric acid solution may lead to advancement of flower stage which again decrease the marketable value of rose cut spikes. ','-','R.J. Makwana, Alka Singh and B.K. Dhaduk (2024). Effect of Low Temperature Storage Techniques on Post Storage Quality of Rose cvs. Bordeaux, Poison and Avalanche. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 16(1): 22-25.'),(8172,'170','Correlation Study on Some Rice Landraces of Assam for Yield and Ancillary Traits under Organic and Conventional Cultivation Method','Lonishree Dutta, K.K. Sharma and Dibosh Bordoloi','55 Correlation Study on Some Rice Landraces of Assam for Yield and Ancillary Traits under Organic and Conventional Cultivation Method-7814-Lonishree Dutta.pdf','',1,'The degree of genetic amelioration is determined by the quantum of genetic variability and the degree to which heritable and nonheritable variants are associated to the traits. The present investigation was carried out in Sali, 2018 to understand the correlation for yield attributing traits in some indigenous rice landraces of Assam. Here, 10 indigenous rice landraces and one check variety were evaluated for quantitative and grain characters. Under the organic cultivation method correlation analysis revealed that grain yield hactare-1 had a positive and significant correlation with ear bearing tiller, and harvest index indicating the importance of these traits for yield improvement. Similarly, for the conventional cultivation method correlation analysis revealed that grain yield hactare-1 had a positive and significant correlation with ear bearing tiller. The selection of any of these characters will have a direct response on the grain yield of the indigenous cultivars. Head rice recovery (HRR) an important market value character is significantly negatively correlated with kernel length (KL) and grain length (GL).','correlation, indigenous, landraces.','Based on the findings regarding the associations among grain yield and its components, it is reasonable to infer that the strategic selection of genotypes through correlation analysis facilitates the concurrent enhancement of multiple traits contributing to both yield and grain quality in rice. This phenomenon may be attributed to the pleiotropic effects of specific genes and/or the involvement of common regulatory factors, resulting in either positive or negative relationships at the associated yield-contributing traits. Consequently, it becomes crucial to acknowledge the impact of selected or desired yield-contributing traits on grain quality. It is noteworthy that the ultimate marketability of developed rice is significantly influenced by grain quality considerations alone in the realm of rice cultivation','-','Lonishree Dutta, K.K. Sharma and Dibosh Bordoloi (2023). Correlation Study on Some Rice Landraces of Assam for Yield and Ancillary Traits under Organic and Conventional Cultivation Method. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 15(12): 309-312.'),(8173,'172','Toxocara vitulorum Infection of Calves in and Around Barmer District of Rajasthan','Durga Bai Sodha, Phool Kanwar and P.K. Pilania','Toxocara vitulorum Infection of Calves in and around Barmer District of Rajasthan-7786-Durga Bai Sodha-7.pdf','',1,'One of the most prevalent and dangerous parasites of calves in and around the Barmer area of Rajasthan is Toxocara vitulorum, which causes parasitic illnesses. Through the use of T. vitulorum\'s flotation technique, 200 faecal samples in total were collected and analysed. Toxocara vitulorum was discovered to be present in 25.50% of populations. Compared to male calves, which had a prevalence of 21.00%, female calves had a greater sex-specific prevalence of 30.00%.','Toxocara vitulorum, infection, calves, Barmer district, Rajasthan.','According to the study\'s findings, 25.50% of people in Rajasthan\'s Barmer district had Toxocara vitulorum infections overall. Compared to male calves (21.00%), female calves had a greater sex-specific prevalence (30.00%) calves.','-','Durga Bai Sodha, Phool Kanwar and P.K. Pilania (2024). Toxocara vitulorum Infection of Calves in and Around Barmer District of Rajasthan. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 16(1): 26-27.'),(8174,'172','Effect of Dietary Supplementation of Fenugreek Seed (Trigonella foenum graecum), Giloy (Tinospora cordifolia) and Shatavari (Asparagus racemosus) on Haematological Parameters of Lactating Sahiwal Cattle','Jyoti Srivastav, Sanjay Kumar and Tushar Saxena ','Effect-of-Dietary-Supplementation-of-Fenugreek-Seed-(Trigonella-foenum-graecum)-Giloy-(Tinospora-cordifolia)-and-Shatavari-(Asparagus-racemosus)-on-Haematological-Parameters-of-Lactating-Jyoti-Srivastav-8.pdf','',1,'To observe the effect of various conventional herbs such as Fenugreek (Trigonella foenum graecum), Giloy (Tinospora cordifolia) and Shatavari (Asparagus racemosus) in livestock feeding, the present research work was conducted on twenty four Sahiwal cattle of lactation age group. The duration of experimental period was 120 days. Sahiwal cattle were randomly distributed into four dietary treatment groups composed with six animals in each group. The different dietary programme used in the study were as follows: T0 (Control group); Basal diet only, T1; Basal diet+100 g Fenugreek seed powder, T2; Basal diet+100 g Giloy stem powder and T3; Basal diet+100 g Shatavari root powder along with the concentrate feed. For evaluation of haematological parameters blood samples were collected from each cattle. Parameters viz., haemoglobin, packed cell volume, total erythrocyte count, total leukocyte count and differential leukocyte were measured by using standard procedures in laboratory. The statistical analysis of the data revealed non-significant effect of dietary supplementation of various herbal feed additives on haematological parameters of lactating. Sahiwal cattle except the packed cell volume which differed significantly (p>0.05) that suggested no harmful effect on general health condition of experimental cattle. ','Fenugreek seed, Herbal, Haematological parameters, Blood, Sahiwal','The present study concluded that the inclusion of different herbs viz. Fenugreek seed powder (Trigonella foenum graecum), Giloy stem powder (Tinospora cardifolia) and Shatavri root powder (Asparagus racemosus) in the feed of lactating cattle @ 100 g/day did not affected the haematological parameters thus it be can be safely incorporated in the basal diet of Sahiwal cattle.','-','Jyoti Srivastav, Sanjay Kumar and Tushar Saxena (2024). Effect of Dietary Supplementation of Fenugreek Seed (Trigonella foenum graecum), Giloy (Tinospora cordifolia) and Shatavari (Asparagus racemosus) on Haematological Parameters of Lactating Sahiwal Cattle. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 16(1): 28-30.'),(8175,'156','Exploring the Potential of Pyrimidine: A Comprehensive Review of its Biological Roles, Medicinal Applications, and Synthetic Methodologies in Drug Development','Ajay A. Kumbhar, Harichandra A. Parbat and Anna Pratima Nikalje ','Exploring-the-Potential-of-Pyrimidine-A-Comprehensive-Review-of-its-Biological-Roles-Medicinal-Applications-and-Synthetic-Methodologies-in-Drug-Development-Ajay-A-Kumbhar-159.pdf','',1,'Medical chemistry focuses on developing and producing medicinal compounds or pharmaceutical agents that have positive effects on human health and well-being. About half of modern organic chemistry research focuses on heterocyclic chemicals, which have been shown to be both widely and economically useful as therapeutic agents. Pyrimidines, a notable heterocyclic compound, are among the most notable due to their notable pharmacological effects. They are vital constituents of cellular structures and all forms of organic life, and their biological activities are essential for the development and release of effective new drugs.\r\nPyrimidine and its derivatives exhibit a wide range of biological and pharmacological actions, including but not limited to anticonvulsant, antibacterial, antifungal, antiviral, and anticancer characteristics. The ability of pyrimidine to exhibit synthetic flexibility has enabled the production of several derivatives with varying structures. This has greatly eased the investigation of a broad spectrum of biological targets. This research provides a comprehensive description of the biological roles associated with the pyrimidine scaffold. Due to the significant biological activities exhibited by pyrimidine, the field of medicinal chemistry maintains a continued interest in the pyrimidine skeleton as a valuable component for drug development. Consequently, the development of practical and dependable methodologies for the synthesis of pyrimidine molecules is of utmost importance. This article provides an overview of the anticancer and antibacterial capabilities associated with the pyrimidine scaffold. The scientific discoveries presented in this publication possess the potential to serve as a source of inspiration for future scholars, encouraging them to explore the intricacies of this particular heterocyclic scaffold. This review paper has the potential to draw the attention of researchers who are interested in the structural design and development of innovative active pyrimidine scaffolds, aiming to enhance their activity while minimising their toxicity.\r\n','Pyrimidine, Drug Development, Synthesis, Biological Activities','The field of medical chemistry is centred around the research and synthesis of medicinal chemicals or pharmaceutical agents that possess beneficial properties for the enhancement of human health and overall well-being. Approximately 50% of contemporary organic chemistry research is dedicated to the investigation of heterocyclic compounds, which have demonstrated significant use as medicinal agents, exhibiting both broad applicability and economic viability. Pyrimidines, a prominent class of heterocyclic compounds, are widely recognised for their significant pharmacological effects. Lipids are integral components of cellular structures and play a crucial role in all forms of organic life. Their biological functions are vital for the advancement and dissemination of efficacious novel pharmaceuticals.\r\nAnticonvulsant, antibacterial, antifungal, antiviral, and anticancer properties are just some of the many biological and pharmacological activities displayed by pyrimidine and its derivatives. The synthetic flexibility of pyrimidine has allowed for the generation of a large number of structurally diverse derivatives, which has facilitated the study of a wide range of biochemical targets. The biological functions of the pyrimidine scaffold have been described in this article. Given the pyrimidine\'s biological activities, the medicinal chemist will likely continue to be interested in the pyrimidine skeleton for use in medicinal chemistry and drug development; therefore, it is crucial that effective and reliable methods be developed for the construction of these molecules. The pyrimidine scaffold\'s anticancer and antimicrobial properties have been outlined in this review. This manuscript\'s scientific findings could be useful in inspiring future researchers to investigate this heterocyclic scaffold. A potential outcome of this review article is attracting researchers interested in the structural design and development of novel active pyrimidine scaffolds with increased activity and decreased toxicity.\r\n','-','Ajay A. Kumbhar, Harichandra A. Parbat and Anna Pratima Nikalje (2023). Exploring the Potential of Pyrimidine: A Comprehensive Review of its Biological Roles, Medicinal Applications, and Synthetic Methodologies in Drug Development. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 15(4): 963-976.'),(8176,'157','Pharmacological Activities of Pyrimidine Derivatives: An Overview','Prakash Pansare, Harichandra Parbat and Anna Pratima Nikalje','Pharmacological-Activities-of-Pyrimidine-Derivatives-An-Overview-Prakash-Pansare-264.pdf','',1,'The present review article highlights the therapeutic potentials of pyrimidine derivatives, which are valuable for medical applications in the new generation. Heterocyclic compounds, including pyrimidine, offer a wide range of structural diversity and have demonstrated significant usefulness as therapeutic agents. Pyrimidine is compound that is similar to pyridine aromatic heterocyclic and is one of the three diazines. Extensive research has shown that heterocyclic pyrimidine derivatives play crucial roles in the pathophysiology of various diseases. The pyrimidine nucleus, a fundamental component of DNA, has been found to exhibit diverse biological activities. These include antimicrobial, anticancer, anti-inflammatory, antidiabetic, and analgesic activities. This review article aims to provide an overview of the reported work on the therapeutic potentials of pyrimidine derivatives, highlighting their significance in medical applications for the new generation.','Pyrimidine, pyrimidine derivatives, pyrimidine nucleus, Pharmaceutical, Antimicrobial, Antiviral','The work offers fresh insights into the applications of pyrimidine derivatives in medicine and pharmacology. This overview demonstrates the wide range of illnesses for which pyrimidine derivatives have been investigated. Pyrimidines and their derivatives have been linked to a variety of pharmacological effects, such as those that are antimicrobial, antiviral, anticancer, antifungal, anti-inflammatory, antimalarial, antidepressant, anticonvulsant, antithyroid, anti-alzheimer, anti-angiogenic, anti-hepatitis, anti-diabetic, and analgesic. ','-','Prakash Pansare, Harichandra Parbat and Anna Pratima Nikalje (2023). Pharmacological Activities of Pyrimidine Derivatives: An Overview. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 15(5): 1767-1775.'),(8177,'170','Evaluation of Endophytes and Green Nanoparticles for the Management of Pomegranate Wilt Complex','Saranya R. and Yashoda R. Hegde','Evaluation-of-Endophytes-and-Green-Nanoparticles-for-the-Management-of-Pomegranate-Wilt-Complex-Saranya-R-56.pdf','',1,'The endophytes, Trichoderma harzianum-LF30, T. asperellum-SF33, Bacillus vallismortis-SB3 and green nanoparticle, Pseudomonas fluorescens-based zinc nanoparticles (Pf-ZnNPs) were first tested for their plant growth promotion activity with biocontrol agents T. viride (Multiplex Nisarga) and B. amyloliquifaciens in sorghum seeds. These endophytes and nanoparticles were tested for compatibility with each other and with chemical fungicides, mancozeb @ 0.2 percent, tebuconazole, propiconazole @ 0.1 percent, carbendazim 12% + mancozeb 63% and captan 70% + hexaconazole 5% @0.2%. Among endophytes and Pf-ZnNPs higher seed germination per cent was recorded in Pf-ZnNPs and seedling vigour was recorded in B. vallismortis -SB3.Based on compatibility test, consortia of T. viride-Multiplex Nisarga + T. harzianum-LF30 + T. asperellum- SF33 and B. vallismortis- SB3 + B. amyloliquifaciens were developed and included in management of pomegranate wilt study (pot culture). Among twelve treatments, these consortia and tebuconazole, propiconazole at 0.1% showed cent per cent disease reduction after 90 days of inoculation. ','Endophyte, management, nanoparticle, pomegranate wilt','-','-','Saranya R. and Yashoda R. Hegde (2023). Evaluation of Endophytes and Green Nanoparticles for the Management of Pomegranate Wilt Complex. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 15(12): 313-319.'),(8178,'170','Impact of Flood Resistant Red Rice Variety – Sahyadri Panchamukhi on Socio-Economic status of Coastal Farmers of Karnataka','Naveen Kumar, B. T., Mallikarjuna, L., Shivakumar, R. and Kedarnath ','Impact-of-Flood-Resistant-Red-Rice-Variety-Sahyadri-Panchamukhi-on-Socio-Economic-status-of-Coastal-Farmers-of-Karnataka-Naveen-Kumar-57.pdf','',1,'In Dakshina Kannada, paddy is a major staple food crop mainly grown during kharif in medium and low laying fields. Coastal Karnataka has > 1500 ha of paddy land that inundates with flood for long duration creating unfavourable situation for paddy cultivation and resulting in low production. In coastal Karnataka more priority has been paid towards cultivation of indigenous red paddy varieties. But these varieties are tall with lodging problem, does not respond to fertilizer and provide less yield. Realizing this problem during 2020-21 ICAR-Krishi Vigyan Kendra, Dakshina Kannada, Mangalore took initiative to purchase the truthful labelled seeds for introduction and popularization of flood resistant red rice variety - Sahyadri Panchamukhi in the coastal district. During 2020-21 to 2022-23, 12 capacity building programmes were organized at different villages of Dakshina Kannada benefiting 267 farmers and 6.25 quintals of truthful labelled paddy seed as critical input was provided to motivate the farmers for adoption of new variety covering an area of 25 acre under Front Line Demonstration programme. During the period from 2020 to 2022, KVK organized 3 FLDs, 2 seed production activity and seed source link connection to different line departments, NGOs, farmers group resulted an area expansion with Sahyadri Panchamukhi is of 576 ha across the district with a production of 28800 quintals and increase in productivity from 18 to 20%. The total additional returns gained in the district is Rs. 891 Lakhs due to varietal replacement. ','Flood, Sahyadri Panchamukhi, FLD, Production, Returns','Front Line Demonstrations on flood resistant red rice variety Sahyadri Panchamukhi contributed 36.84 % higher yield and 45.63 % higher net returns than farmer’s practice. The increase in yield of paddy under flood prone area to the extent of FLDs created greater awareness and motivated the other farmers to adopt this flood resistant red rice variety. ','-','Naveen Kumar, B. T., Mallikarjuna, L., Shivakumar, R. and Kedarnath (2023). Impact of Flood Resistant Red Rice Variety – Sahyadri Panchamukhi on Socio-Economic status of Coastal Farmers of Karnataka. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 15(12): 320-322.'),(8179,'170','Evaluation of Copper Fungicide in Anthracnose of Pumpkin under Organic Cultivation in Assam','Rituraj Das, Jangila Hazowary, Mitul Kr. Saikia and Subhajit Khound ','Evaluation-of-Copper-Fungicide-in-Anthracnose-of-Pumpkin-under-Organic-Cultivation-in-Assam-Jangila-Hazowary-58.pdf','',1,'Anthracnose which is caused by Colletotrichum lagenarium, is a serious disease that can infect all the aerial parts and fruits of the pumpkin plant, resulting in significant crop loss. In this study, the effectiveness of three different forms of copper fungicides- Copper Oxychloride 50% WP, Copper Hydroxide and Bordeaux mixture were evaluated against anthracnose at 10, 25, 50, and 100 ppm concentrations. The poisoned food technique was adopted for the evaluation in vitro. The fungicide Copper Oxychloride 50% WP was found to be most effective in suppressing the mycelial growth by 72.10% at 100 ppm, compared to the control. Copper Oxychloride 50% WP was further evaluated in field conditions under six different spray schedules and was found effective in reducing the incidence and intensity of the disease to a varying extent. Application of 4 nos. of sprays at 10-day intervals could provide the highest protection of 77.80% against the disease with a maximum yield of 1.78 t/ha.','Anthracnose, Copper fungicides, Organic cultivation, Disease intensity, Bordeaux mixture, Copper oxychloride, Mancozeb','In conclusion, the anthracnose of pumpkin is one of the most important diseases of pumpkin caused by Colletotrichum lagenarium. Since, the National Center of Organic Farming, Department of Agriculture and Cooperation, Ministry of Agriculture, Government of India permits the use of copper fungicides in organic agriculture with a restriction of 8 kg/ha/year, copper fungicides can be used as an important tool for effective management of the disease in pumpkin cultivation under the organic situation. Hence, the use of copper fungicides at different concentrations and with an effective spray schedule has been attempted in the current study. The result of the present study concluded that 4 number sprays of Copper Oxychloride @0.25% at 10 day intervals is highly effective for the management of anthracnose in pumpkin under organic cultivation. ','-','Rituraj Das, Jangila Hazowary, Mitul Kr. Saikia and Subhajit Khound (2023). Evaluation of Copper Fungicide in Anthracnose of Pumpkin under Organic Cultivation in Assam. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 15(12): 323-328.'),(8180,'170','Assessment of Emerging Wheat Diseases in Northern Region of West Bengal under Changing Climate Scenario','Gnanasing Jesumaharaja L., Dhar A., Bhaumik P., Yonzone R., Debnath M.K., Kumar P.D., Devi A.P. and Hembram S. ','Assessment-of-Emerging-Wheat-Diseases-in-Northern-Region-of-West-Bengal-under-Changing-Climate-Scenario-Hembram-S-59.pdf','',1,'A survey was conducted throughout the 2019-20 wheat growing season, spanning the months of January and February, encompassing critical growth stages from anthesis to physiological maturity. This survey extensively covered the seven districts within the West Bengal state, situated in the North Bengal region, known for their wheat cultivation. During the survey, stops were made every 15 to 20 kilometers along roads to thoroughly examine fields. Data collected included the identification of disease types based on symptoms, as well as the incidence and severity of these diseases. The diseases observed during this survey encompassed Spot blotch, Fusarium Head Blight (FHB), Leaf Rust, loose smut, Glume blotch, and root rot. Survey results shows the Spot blotch as the most prevalent disease, causing substantial annual economic losses. Fusarium Head Blight was observed in the majority of areas but not across all fields surveyed. On the other hand, occurrences of Leaf Rust, loose smut, glume blotch, and root rot were identified in certain areas. The prevalence (percentage of contaminated fields) and severity of these diseases exhibited variations from year to year.','Wheat, diseases, survey, incidence and severity','The findings from this investigation indicate that the majority of commercially cultivated wheat varieties in this region are highly susceptible to both spot blotch and Fusarium Head Blight (FHB) diseases. Additionally, there is a higher probability of leaf rust and smut diseases occurring at severe levels. Consequently, it is recommended to promote the dissemination of improved and recently released wheat varieties and proper management practices. This approach will aim to mitigate the economic threats associated with these prevalent diseases and simultaneously decrease the risk of emerging diseases in the region.','-','Gnanasing Jesumaharaja L., Dhar A., Bhaumik P., Yonzone R., Debnath M.K., Kumar P.D., Devi A.P. and Hembram S. (2023). Assessment of Emerging Wheat Diseases in Northern Region of West Bengal under Changing Climate Scenario. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 15(12): 329-334.'),(8181,'171','Socio-economic Status of Sorghum Variety Parbhani Shakti Adopter and Non-adopter in Parbhani District of Marathwada Region','Vishal M. Kamble, Digamber S. Perke and Tukaram B. Munde','Socio-economic-Status-of-Sorghum-Variety-Parbhani-Shakti-Adopter-and-Non-adopter-in-Parbhani-District-of-Marathwada-Region-Vishal-M-Kamble-4.pdf','',1,'This study focuses on the socio-economic conditions of the sorghum growers of the Parbhani district of Maharashtra state. It helps policymakers tailor agricultural policies to address specific needs and challenges within different communities. For this study, an interview schedule was prepared. The independent variables are different socio-economic characteristics including age, education, landholding, family type, farm size, family size, family income occupation, social participation, livestock size etc. The study was conducted in two blocks in the Parbhani district of Maharashtra. A total of 120 respondents were selected for the study i.e. 60 adopter and 60 non adopter. The data showed that the age range between adopters and non-adopters was 44-47 years. In terms of educational background, it was observed that majority of respondents had completed secondary education. It is evident from findings that the majority of respondents were small and semi medium farmers average land holding of adopter and non-adopter was 2.43 ha and 1.93 ha, respectively. The majority of adopters 81.66 per cent and non-adopters (70 per cent) are members of the nucleus family, whereas just 18.33 per cent of adopters and 30 per cent of non-adopters in the study region are members of the joint family. The average family size of adopter and non-adopter was 6.08 and 6.68, respectively. 81.66 pe cent of adopters and 80 per cent of non-adopters had agriculture as their primary occupation. The study\'s findings demonstrated that adopters of Parbhani Shakthi had higher average levels of social participation 0.85, compared to 0.32 for non-adopters and average livestock size of adopter and non-adopter was 3.53 and 2.08. ','Socio-economic variables, education, majority, respondents','The outcomes of this study suggest that the majority of the sorghum growing farmers of Parbhani district belonged to middle age group, educated up to secondary level, had medium annual income with large size of family and majority of them belonged to nucleus family, had small land holding, medium extension and low social participation, majority of respondents has farming as main occupation and had 18 to 26 years of farming experience. Socio- economic parameters of sorghum farmers reveals that there is a scope for further improvement in socio-economic status, which ultimately leads to a greater extent for adopting modern technologies in sorghum cultivation. This study is also useful for policy- makers so that they should make policy by keeping in mind these conditions of farmers.\r\nPolicy Implication. It was found that majority of adopter and non-adopter respondents had medium level of socio-economic status. Governments can uplift the socioeconomic status of farmers through various policies and initiatives. These may include providing access to affordable credit and insurance, investing in rural infrastructure like roads and irrigation, offering subsidies for modern farming equipment and technology, facilitating better market access through improved transportation and storage facilities, supporting agricultural education and training programs.\r\n','-','-'),(8182,'171','Is Cultivation of Safflower Variety PBNS-86 in Marathwada Region is Profitable ?','Namdev S. Pandhare, Sachin S. More and Digambar S. Perke','Is-Cultivation-of-Safflower-Variety-PBNS-86-in-Marathwada-Region-is-Profitable-Namdev-S-Pandhare-5.pdf','',1,'Safflower (Carthamus tinctorius L.), origin – India, Afghanistan and Ethiopia, a member of the Asteraceae family, is a versatile, winter-spring growing, minor oilseed crop in India and Australia, offering key benefits to diverse summer and winter crop systems as well as components of mixed production system. The major safflower growing states in India are Maharashtra, Karnataka, Andhra Pradesh, Madhya Pradesh, Rajasthan and Gujarat. Maharashtra and Karnataka are the two most important safflower growing states accounting for 72 per cent and 23 per cent of the area and 63 per cent and 35 per cent production, respectively. In Parbhani district area under safflower crop was 15.06 hundred hectors with production of 14.76 tones and productivity of 980 kilogram per hectares during year 2022-23. Using Multistage sampling design two tehsil viz., Parbhani and Sonpeth, from Parbhani district were selected for study. This Paper is focused to economic impact of improved safflower variety PBNS-86. Use of this variety change to farmer’s income. Economic impact analysis can benefit farmers in several ways. It helps them understand how changes in market conditions, government policies, or environmental factors may affect their income and livelihood.','Safflower, Seed, Impact, Profit regression','Using data 2022-23, adopters and non-adopters per hectare utilization of seed, nitrogen, and phosphorus was lower for adopters than the non-adopters. In case of adopters average Cost A of adopters was observed to be Rs. 29467.88. Cost B was Rs. 48843.04. Cost C average was Rs. 71435.39 and non-adopters average Cost A of non-adopters was observed to be Rs. 30116.41. Cost B was Rs. 45400.72. Cost C was noticed average Rs. 67581.36. Benefited cost ratio were having high adopters than the non-adopters. Estimated the impact of PBNS-86 variety on farmers’ income using profit regression there are positive significance like safflower area, yield, source of information, annual income and valuation of assets. ','-','-'),(8183,'172','Impact of Chemical Fertilizers, Organic Manure and Bio-inoculants on Sustainable Production of Onion (Allium cepa L.)','Omprakash Yadav, S.S. Singh, Veerendra Kumar Patel, Vivek Kumar Singh, Suraj Mishra and Ramvikash Jaiswal ','Impact-of-Chemical-Fertilizers-Organic-Manure-and-Bio-inoculants-on-Sustainable-Production-of-Onion-(Allium-cepa-L.)-Veerendra-Kumar-Patel-9.pdf','',1,'The impact of chemical fertilizers, organic manure and bio-enhancer focuses at efficient and judicious use of the main sources of plant nutrients. It is done in a balance manner so as to get maximum economic yield without any deleterious effect which is affecting the physical, chemical and biological properties of the soil. Only some experimental studies have been done in onion for chemical fertilizers, organic manure and bio-enhancer. With this background an experiment was conducted at the agriculture farm (Rajaula) of Mahatma Gandhi Chitrakoot Gramodaya Vishwavidyalaya, Chitrakoot, Satna (M.P.) during 2019. The experiment was laid out in Randomized Block Design (RBD) having fourteen treatments replicated thrice. As per the findings, significantly higher bulb diameter (6.10 cm), bulb length (6.37 cm), bulb weight (60.63), bulb ring (7.33), yield ha-1 (24.50 q) was recorded with treatment T11-(25% N equivalent from organic source + 75% RDF (NPK 75:60:60 kg ha-1) + Bio-fertilizer consortium (Azotobacter + PSB) and Bio-enhancer Seedling treatment (panchgavya) spray at 15 days interval from 20 days), which was at par with application of T2 (R.D.F. NPK 100:80:80 kg ha-1). Maximum plant height 90 DAS (65.93 cm), Number of leaves 90 DAS (7.20) and leaves length 90 DAS (53.50 cm) was recorded with application of T2 (R.D.F. NPK 100:80:80 kg ha-1) which was followed by application of T11-(25% N equivalent from organic source + 75% RDF (NPK 75:60:60 kg ha-1) + Bio-fertilizer consortium (Azotobacter + PSB) and Bio-enhancer Seedling treatment (panchgavya) spray at 15 days interval from 20 days). The results showed that application of T11-(25% N equivalent from organic source + 75% RDF (NPK 75:60:60 kg ha-1) + Bio-fertilizer consortium (Azotobacter + PSB) and Bio-enhancer Seedling treatment (panchgavya) spray at 15 days interval from 20 days), this treatment proved to be promising for the enhancement the yield of onion under the Bundelkhand Agro-climatic condition.','Bio-enhancer, Bio-fertilizer, Growth, Onion, panchgavya, Sustainability and Yield','In view of experimental result obtained during the present investigation, treatment T11- 25% N equivalent from organic manures source + 75% RDF (NPK 75:60:60 kg ha-1) + Bio fertilizers consortium (Azotobacter + PSB) and Bio-enhancer Seedling treatment (Panchgavya) spray at 15 days interval from 20 days, emerged as superior over all other treatments, in relation to yield attributes of onion under the Bundelkhand Agro-climate condition.','-','Omprakash Yadav, S.S. Singh, Veerendra Kumar Patel, Vivek Kumar Singh, Suraj Mishra and Ramvikash Jaiswal (2024). Impact of Chemical Fertilizers, Organic Manure and Bio-inoculants on Sustainable Production of Onion (Allium cepa L.). Biological Forum – An International Journal, 16(1): 31-36.'),(8184,'170','Heterosis Studies for Yield and Yield Attributing Characters in Maize \r\n(Zea mays L.)\r\n','Pandya P.V., Patel S.R., Trivedi. M.A. and Goti H.G. ','Heterosis-Studies-for-Yield-and-Yield-Attributing-Characters-in-Maize-(Zea-mays-L.)-Pandya-PV-60.pdf','',1,'The study of heterosis among maize germplasm is very essential to maximize the effectiveness of cultivars selection. Diallel analysis using 6inbred lines was carried out with a view to estimating heterosis in maize. Significant heterosis for grain yield traits was observed in most of the hybrids. Higher magnitude of heterosis against all yield and quality traits were not expressed in a single hybrid combination which varied from the cross to cross due to the diverse genetic background of their parents. An examination of mean values for different characters revealed that CML-482 and IT-INA-011-2 were the high yielding parents and were also good for various yield attributing traits. In general, the parents showing superior performance give superior hybrids and a higher magnitude of heterosis in hybrid combination. The considerable magnitude of heterosis and heterobeltiosis was observed for all the characters. The higher significant and positive standard heterosis for kernel yield per plant and some of its yield contributing traits were recorded in the cross, CML-482 × IT-INA-011-2. The per se performance of hybrids was, in general, related to the heterotic response in the majority of characters. This indicated that the selection of crosses on the basis of per se performance or heterotic response would be equally important.','Heterosis, Heterobeltiosis, Diallel, Maize, yield, yield components','The high, significant and positive standard heterosis for Kernel yield per plant and some of its component traits were recorded in the crosse, CML-482 × IT-INA-011-2 Such crosses could be exploited for heterosis breeding programme in maize. ','-','Pandya P.V., Patel S.R., Trivedi. M.A. and Goti H.G. (2023). Heterosis Studies for Yield and Yield Attributing Characters in Maize (Zea mays L.). Biological Forum – An International Journal, 15(12): 335-339.'),(8185,'170','Isolation, characterization and Formulation Development of Salt Tolerant Plant Growth Promoting Bacteria','Saiyad M.M., Vyas R.V., Patel H.K. and Mevada K.D. ','Isolation-characterization-and-Formulation-Development-of-Salt-Tolerant-Plant-Growth-Promoting-Bacteria-Vyas-RV-61.pdf','',1,'Soil salinity poses a global threat to world agriculture by reducing the yield of crops and ultimately the crop productivity in the salt affected areas. Soil inoculation of salt tolerant Plant Growth Promoting Bacteria (ST-PGPB) i.e. free living diazotrophs and phosphate solubilizers not only help in achieving food security but also results in fortifying macro and micro nutrients for mankind and quality of soil organic nutrients, improvement of agro-ecosystem with minimum pollution hazards. Three salt tolerant native PGPB were isolated from Vaso farm and screened based on their abilities to fix N and solubilize P. Isolates AAU V2 and AAU V8 were found N-fixer while, AAU V1 was found P-solubilizer based on their growth characteristics on selective media. The salt tolerance (i.e. NaCl and KCl) test showed that all three isolates were capable to grow at varied salt concentration i.e. from 4.5 to 8.5 % in vitro. A liquid assay test on survival and multiplication ability of chosen isolates indicated that all three isolates grows well in all tested growth medium except minimal salt broth without carbon source. ST-PGPB isolates were identified by 16S rRNA gene sequencing technique as Priesta (= Bacillus) AAU V1 nr. sp. flexia (NCBI ACC. No. OR287447), Cupriavidus AAU V2 nr. sp. alkaliphilus (NCBI ACC. No. OR287481) and Lysobacter AAU V8 nr. sp. yangpyeongensis (NCBI ACC. No. OR287436). The isolates were further tested for PGP traits and found that all three isolates were positive for the availability of macro nutrient (N, P and K). The highest nitrogen fixation (20.25 mg N g-1 of sucrose consumed) was recorded by Cupriavidus AAU V2, followed by Lysobacter AAU V8 (18.70 mg N g-1 of sucrose consumed) and Priestia AAU V1 (8.05 mg N g-1 of sucrose consumed). Maximum P solubilization zone was recorded for isolate Priestia AAU V1 (zone of 10.2 mm). All three isolates found moderate K solubilizer and good zinc solubilizer. Moreover, found to produce IAA and ACC deaminase enzyme. A liquid biofertilizer formulation, Bio NP consortium was prepared by mixing all three chosen isolates in equal proportions and further evaluated for its shelf life study up to one year. Shelf life study showed that survival of bacteria in consortium was found excellent up to 6 months and minimum count sustained as per FCO up to 1 year.','Plant growth promoting bacteria, PGP traits, Bio NP formulation, Salt tolerant, N fixation, P solubilization, Shelf-life','The present investigation was carried out to isolate and characterize native salt tolerant PGPB from low saline soil of Vaso farm. Three potential isolates were selected based on their morphological characters, salt tolerance abilities and abilities to fix atmospheric nitrogen and soliubilize phosphorous. Morphological and molecular characterization identified the native salt tolerant isolates as Priesta (= Bacillus) AAU V1 nr. sp. Flexia (NCBI Accession no. OR287447) as P solubilizer; Cupriavidus AAU V2 nr. sp. Alkaliphilus (OR287481) as free-living N-fixer and Lysobacter AAU V8 nr. sp. Yangpyeongensis (OR287436) as free-living N-fixer. Overall, PGP traits showed that for 5 key tests assessed for macronutrients the isolates found better and good for Zinc, ACC deaminase and IAA production. On the whole, ST-PGPB isolated from low saline soil of Vaso region exhibited good salt tolerance and best plant growth promoting traits in laboratory. The native Bio-NP bacterial liquid consortium product prepared was sustained well at ambient temperature in laboratory.','-','Saiyad M.M., Vyas R.V., Patel H.K. and Mevada K.D. (2023). Isolation, characterization and Formulation Development of Salt Tolerant Plant Growth Promoting Bacteria. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 15(12): 340-347.'),(8186,'172','Heterosis Studies for Yield and Yield Attributing Characters in Maize \r\n(Zea mays L.)\r\n','Pandya P.V., Patel S.R., Trivedi. M.A. and Goti H.G.','Heterosis-Studies-for-Yield-and-Yield-Attributing-Characters-in-Maize-Pandya-PV-10.pdf','',4,'The study of heterosis among maize germplasm is very essential to maximize the effectiveness of cultivars selection. Diallel analysis using 6inbred lines was carried out with a view to estimating heterosis in maize. Significant heterosis for grain yield traits was observed in most of the hybrids. Higher magnitude of heterosis against all yield and quality traits were not expressed in a single hybrid combination which varied from the cross to cross due to the diverse genetic background of their parents. An examination of mean values for different characters revealed that CML-482 and IT-INA-011-2 were the high yielding parents and were also good for various yield attributing traits. In general, the parents showing superior performance give superior hybrids and a higher magnitude of heterosis in hybrid combination. The considerable magnitude of heterosis and heterobeltiosis was observed for all the characters. The higher significant and positive standard heterosis for kernel yield per plant and some of its yield contributing traits were recorded in the cross, CML-482 × IT-INA-011-2. The per se performance of hybrids was, in general, related to the heterotic response in the majority of characters. This indicated that the selection of crosses on the basis of per se performance or heterotic response would be equally important.','Heterosis, Heterobeltiosis, Diallel, Maize, yield, yield components','The high, significant and positive standard heterosis for Kernel yield per plant and some of its component traits were recorded in the crosse, CML-482 × IT-INA-011-2 Such crosses could be exploited for heterosis breeding programme in maize. ','-','Pandya P.V., Patel S.R., Trivedi. M.A. and Goti H.G. (2023). Heterosis Studies for Yield and Yield Attributing Characters in Maize (Zea mays L.). Biological Forum – An International Journal, 16(1): 37-41.'),(8187,'170','Optimization of Seed Rate and Priming Methods on Growth and Yield of Field Pea grown under Rice Fallow System of Lower Gangetic Plains','Devaraj, Aishwarya V., Pintoo Bandopadhyay and Tilak K. ','Optimization-of-Seed-Rate-and-Priming-Methods-on-Growth-and-Yield-of-Field-Peagrown-under-Rice-Fallow-System-of-Lower-Gangetic-Plains-Devaraj-62.pdf','',1,'A field experiment was conducted on field pea in alluvial soil growth under rice fallow system of Kalyani AB Block Farm in West Bengal during Rabi 2021-22. Nine treatments were tested in randomised block design with three replications, Treatment combinations included were different priming methods and at different seed rates. The results showed that treatments with 1% KNO3 priming + 120 kg/ha seed rate (T9) and hydro priming + 120 kg/ha (T6) were on par with each other and recorded significantly higher growth and yield attributes over other treatments. However, treatment with hydro priming + 100 kg/ha (T5) excelled over the other treatments by recording a highest B:C ratio of 2.93.','Seed rate, Priming, Rice fallow, KNO3 (potassium nitrate) and Hydropriming','More number of plants were recorded as a result of seed priming and higher seed rates, than no seed priming and lesser seed rates. Hydro priming also resulted in more vigour of seeds and established a greater plant stand. The increased seed rate caused plants to grow taller to compete for more solar light harnessing. The priming of KNO3 might also have contributed to the rise in plant height along with branching, as potassium encourages cell division and cell elongation, which results in internodal elongation which in turn leads to the highest dry matter accumulation, yield, test weight, and stover yield. High LAI has been observed in both 60 and 90 DAS has been observed in the “on farm priming” where hydro priming has been followed and potassium nitrate primed seeds over non-primed seeds. The increase in root nodule count with seed priming might have been owing to an increase in root development and thus provided better conditions for nitrogen-fixing bacteria. However, the poor harvest index value could be due to relatively closer plants resulting in increased competition for light, space, and nutrients which enhanced plant height and increased shoot dry matter hence decreasing the harvest index.','-','Devaraj, Aishwarya V., Pintoo Bandopadhyay and Tilak K. (2023). Optimization of Seed Rate and Priming Methods on Growth and Yield of Field Pea grown under Rice Fallow System of Lower Gangetic Plains. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 15(12): 348-352.'),(8188,'171','Use of Biomix in Turmeric Cultivation: An Economic impact in Marathwada Region','Someshwar B. Suryavanshi, Sachin S. More and Tukaram B. Munde','Use of Biomix in Turmeric Cultivation An Economic impact in Marathwada Region-Someshwar B Suryavanshi-6.pdf','',1,'India holds the position of the world\'s largest producer, consumer, and exporter of turmeric. In the fiscal year 2023, Maharashtra emerged as the leading turmeric producer, contributing over 278 thousand metric tons. This study focused on assessing the economic impact of the Biomix product on turmeric cultivation for the period 2022-2023, with the Biomix being developed by the VNMKV Parbhani, a state agricultural university. Farmers can use this knowledge to make informed decisions about crop choices, resource allocation, and investment in technology or infrastructure. Additionally, economic impact assessments can inform policymakers about the needs of the agricultural sector, potentially leading to better support and policies that benefit farmers. Required primary cross-sectional data was gathered using a pre-tested schedule, and the analysis utilized partial budgeting techniques and profit regression. The result of study revealed that integrating Biomix and optimizing input utilization led to reduced cultivation costs and increased net profit for cultivators. Adopters achieved a gross produce of Rs. 43.73 per hectare, with a benefit-cost ratio of 1.59, surpassing non-adopters. Additionally, adopters recorded a net profit of Rs. 127, 196.12, outperforming non-adopters. The positive impact of yield on farmers\' income was notably significant, with information sources, loans, and access to credit showing a statistically significant influence at the 1% level, indicating that an increase in these factors is associated with a significant rise in yield. Therefore the adopter farmers benefited from the use of Biomix in turmeric cultivation.','Turmeric, cost of production, economic impact, cost of cultivation, Biomix','In conclusion, the study found that adopters achieved a superior net profit of Rs. 127,196.12 compared to non-adopters with Rs. 63,551.04, resulting in a higher cost-benefit ratio for adopters (1.59) and a lower ratio for non-adopters (1.34). Furthermore, yield emerged as a significant positive influence on farmers\' income. The source of information, loan, and access to credit demonstrated a positive and statistically significant impact at the 1% level, indicating their significant role in boosting yield. On the other hand, education negatively impacted farmers\' income, with significance increasing with higher education levels. Conversely, the area under turmeric cultivation exhibited a significantly positive effect on farmers\' income, along with yield. Meanwhile, annual income had a significantly negative effect, and factors such as age, family size, source of information, farming experience, loan, and valuation of assets showed non-significant effects on farmers\' income.','-','-'),(8189,'170','Correlation Between Yield and its Attributing Traits in Crossandra','Krishna Sree G., Srinivas P.T., Dorajee Rao A.V.D. and Rajasekharam T. ','Correlation-Between-Yield-and-its-Attributing-Traits-in-Crossandra-G-Krishna-Sree-63.pdf','',1,'A study was undertaken to determine association between different quantitative and qualitative traits of 10 genotypes of crossandra collected from various sources. The correlation analysis revealed that, all vegetative parameters (plant height, plant spread, number of branches, leaf area) and flowering parameters (number of flowers per spike, number of spikes per plant and spike length) showed significant and positive correlation with flower yield per plant. However, the number of days for spike initiation and number of days for first harvest showed significant negative correlation with flower yield per plant. \r\nAll the quality attributes like flower diameter, corolla length, weight of 100 flowers and shelf life showed a significant and positive correlation with each other except corolla length with shelf life, which showed a non-significant correlation coefficient. These traits may serve as effective selection parameters for breeding in Crossandra for improvement of the yield.\r\n','Crossandra, vegetative & flowering parameters, positive correlation, negative correlation','The correlation analysis revealed that, flower yield per plant showed significant and positive correlation with plant spread, number of spikes per plant, leaf area, plant height, spike length, number of flowers per spike, number of branches, corolla length, weight of 100 flowers. However, the number of days for spike initiation and number of days for first harvest showed significant negative correlation with flower yield per plant.','-','Krishna Sree G., Srinivas P.T., Dorajee Rao A.V.D. and Rajasekharam T. (2023). Correlation Between Yield and its Attributing Traits in Crossandra. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 15(12): 353-356.'),(8190,'170','Influence of Time and Pruning Intensity on Growth and Yield Attributes in Custard Apple (Annona squamosa L.) cv. Balanagar','Sonika A.S., Anil I. Sabarad, Suhasini Jalawadi, Kirankumar Gorabal and Prashantha A. ','Influence-of-Time-and-Pruning-Intensity-on-Growth-and-Yield-Attributes-in-Custard-Apple-(Annona-squamosa-L.)-cv.-Balanagar-K-Tabasumbanu-64.pdf','',1,'Custard apple (Annona squamosa L.) is known as Sithaphal or Sugar apple or sweet sop, belongs to the family annonanceae. Addressing challenges in custard apple cultivation it is necessary to standardize of pruning techniques with effect of time and pruning intensity. A study was undertaken to investigate on “Influence of time and pruning intensity on growth and yield attributes in custard apple (Annona squamosa L.) cv. Balanagar” during 2022-23. The result revealed number of tertiary branches (158.33), shoots per branch (10.85), fruits per plant (35.22), fruit yield per plant (7.15 kg), yield per plot (14.31 kg) and yield per hectare (7.95 t) were found highest in T3(January 15th pruning). The maximum number of tertiary branches (215.21), shoots per branch (12.62) was recorded in I1 (20cm pruning intensity) and maximum plant height (2.56 m), East-West (2.72 m), North- South spread (2.67 m), number of fruits per plant (41.18), fruit yield per plant (8.55 kg), fruit yield per plot (17.11 kg) and fruit yield per hectare (4.48 t) was noticed in I2 (30 cm pruning intensity). Number of tertiary branches (248.33), shoots per branch (14.00) were highest in T3I1 (January month pruning with 20 cm intensity). Number of fruits per plant (43.33), fruit yield per plant (9.39 kg), yield per plot (18.78 kg) and yield per hectare (10.43 t) were observed highest in T3I2 (January month pruning with 30 cm intensity). ','Custard apple, Balanagar, Pruning time and intensity, Growth, Yield','Finally, it is summarized that pruning in January month with an intensity of 30 cm pruning from tip gave good vegetative growth and maximum yield contributing parameters, and also well suited for commercial fruit production. ','-','Sonika A.S., Anil I. Sabarad, Suhasini Jalawadi, Kirankumar Gorabal and Prashantha A. (2023). Influence of Time and Pruning Intensity on Growth and Yield Attributes in Custard Apple (Annona squamosa L.) cv. Balanagar. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 1512): 357-360.'),(8191,'170','Influence of Organic Nutrients on Macropropagation of Banana','Tabasumbanu K., Suhasini J., Anil I.S., Sumangala K. and R.T. Patil ','Influence-of-Organic-Nutrients-on-Macropropagation-of-Banana-K-Tabasumbanu-65.pdf','',1,'An experiment was carried out to access banana verities response to macropropagation technique using different organic nutrients, among different combinations of panchagavya, jeevamrutha and vermiwash, minimum number of days for first bud emergence (17.83 days), highest plantlets produced per corm (7.79), plant height (29.33 cm), shoot girth (28.27 mm), leaf length (27.81 cm), leaf breadth (15.11 mm) and leaf area (323.93 cm²) of primary plantlets significantly highest in V1 (Grand Naine). Among the various treatments, the minimum number of days for first bud emergence (17.17 days), highest plantlets produced per corm (8.83), maximum plant height (25.58 cm), shoot girth (30.35 mm), leaf length (29.56 cm), leaf breadth (16.15 mm) and leaf area (363.22 cm²) of primary plantlets was observed in T7 (Panchagavya 5% + jeevamrutha 5% + vermiwash 25%) and observed that the minimum number of days for first bud emergence (14.83 days), highest plantlets produced per corm (10.17), plant height (31 cm), shoot girth (31.48 mm), leaf length (30.50 cm), leaf breadth (16.72 mm) and leaf area (391.97 cm²) of primary plantlets was found in V1T7 (Grand Naine treated with panchagavya 5% + jeevamrutha 5% + vermiwash 25%).','Organic Nutrients, Macropropagation of Banana, panchagavya, jeevamrutha','Based on current study “Influence of organic nutrients on macropropagation of banana” it can be concluded that, Grand Naine variety of banana responded best for macropropagation because number of plantlets produced in Grand Naine was found more than the Ney Poovan, Panchagavya 5 per cent, jeevamrutha 5 per cent and vermiwash 25 per cent was best combination for rapid multiplication of banana.','-','Tabasumbanu K., Suhasini J., Anil I.S., Sumangala K. and R.T. Patil (2023). Influence of Organic Nutrients on Macropropagation of Banana. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 16(1): 361-364.'),(8192,'170','Stability Analysis for Major Yield Traits in Soybean [Glycine max (L.) Merrill]','Ghanshyam Bamaniya, Deepesh Kumar Ahirwar, D.K. Raidas, Jeevan Rathore, Jayesh Raman and S.R. Ramgiry ','Stability-Analysis-for-Major-Yield-Traits-in-Soybean-[Glycine-max-(L.)-Merrill]-GS-Bamaniy-66.pdf','',1,'Soybean is grown in Rabi crop as rainfed crop which express wide production gap due to wide environments. Therefore, development stable soybean varieties may minimize the production gap at high sustainable advantages. Stability explains why genotypes\' average performance across a wide range of environments is an important characteristic in current breeding lines. Keeping the aforementioned factors in mind, the current study was carried out in randomized block design with three replications to examine 20 advanced breeding lines created as part of the All India Coordinated Research Project on Soybeans at RAK College of Agriculture, Sehore (M.P.). Under present investigation adoptive potential and relative stability of 30 genotypes of soybean for yield and its contributing traits have been determined. The pooled analysis of variance carried out to know the response of different characters. To various environmental factors, revealed that genotype × environment interactions were significant for number of primary branches per plant, plant height, number of pods per plant, biological yield per plant, number of seeds per plant, seed yield per plant and 100 seed weight. This suggested that these characters were highly sensitive to the changes in the environmental conditions. Whereas interactions for days to 50% flowering, days to maturity and harvest index were non-significant which indicated that these traits and show least effect to the changes in the environmental conditions.','Variability, heredity, genetic advancement, stability, association','Stability performance furnished information about the adaptation of genotypes in different environments. Genotypes, RVS2012-6 and RVS2012-5 Showed stability for major yield and yield components and could be recommended for cultivation in western part of the Vindhyan Plateau of Madhya Pradesh during Rabi season. The traits viz., days to maturity, plant height, number of branches per plant and pods per plant have been identified as major yield contributing traits through association analysis. High estimates of heritability accompanished by high genetic advance were recorded for plant height, number of pods per plant, number of seeds per plant over environments suggested that direct selection on these traits can improved the seed yield.','-','Ghanshyam Bamaniya, Deepesh Kumar Ahirwar, D.K. Raidas, Jeevan Rathore, Jayesh Raman and S.R. Ramgiry (2023). Stability Analysis for Major Yield Traits in Soybean [Glycine max (L.) Merrill]. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 15(12): 365-367.'),(8193,'172','Sperm Morphological Abnormalities in Fresh Semen of Marwari Stallion','Vishal Yadav, Thirumala Rao Talluri, Sandeep Dholpuria, Sajjan Kumar, Abhishek Joshi, Shivali Khandelwal and Ashok Kumar ','Sperm-Morphological-Abnormalities-in-Fresh-Semen-of-Marwari-Stallion-Vishal-Yadav-10.pdf','',1,'When it comes to predicting future fertility, sperm morphology might even be more significant than motility or count. Sperm with an irregular shape cannot fertilise an egg. Spermatozoa may have a combination of abnormalities. The present study was carried out on six healthy Marwari horses with a semen collection frequency of twice a week. Total 36 (6 per animal) ejaculates were collected using artificial vagina. After collection, semen samples were evaluated grossly, followed by microscopic evaluation. The assessment of sperm morphologies in fresh equine semen was conducted using the eosin and nigrosin staining technique. Morphological abnormalities in the head, mid-piece and tail were 1.42±0.12%, 1.44±0.14% and 1.56±0.10%, respectively and total sperm morphological abnormalities were 4.42±0.23%. Morphological sperm abnormalities (head, mid-piece and tail) along with total sperm morphological abnormalities exhibited a non-significant (P>0.05) difference among Marwari stallions.','Equine semen, fertility, Marwari stallion, sperm morphology, sperm abnormalities','The present study concludes the morphological abnormalities of sperm present in the fresh semen of Marwari stallions during the breeding season, including abnormalities in the sperm head, mid-piece and tail, along with total sperm morphological abnormalities. All the morphological abnormalities exhibited a non-significant difference (P>0.05) among Marwari stallions. The effects of environmental factors like weather and breeding season and the effects of age and frequency of semen collection on the morphological abnormalities of sperm should be studied to know the factors influencing sperm morphological abnormalities of Marwari stallion.','-','Vishal Yadav, Thirumala Rao Talluri, Sandeep Dholpuria, Sajjan Kumar, Abhishek Joshi, Shivali Khandelwal and Ashok Kumar (2024). Sperm Morphological Abnormalities in Fresh Semen of Marwari Stallion. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 16(1): 37-40.'),(8194,'170','An Overview on Solanum torvum Swartz; A Lesser Known Species','L. Mashine, Suchand Datta, Claribel Grace Pradhan, Tsering Lanzes, Khushboo Sharma, Ps. Mariam Anal and Jome Rime ','An-Overview-on-Solanum-torvum-Swartz-A-Lesser-Known-Species-L-Mashine-67.pdf','',1,'Solanaceace is an economically important family, and the genus Solanum is the largest and most representative of the family. Many species of the genus are important commercial crops and consumed globally. However, few species are not well known and underutilized. One such species is Solanum torvum, commonly known as turkey berry. It is a perennial tall evergreen shrub about four metre tall with a prickly stem. The fruits are round in shape, and borne in clusters, with thin fleshed containing many flat and brown seeds. Immature fruits are used especially as a vegetable in some parts of the world. It is less known and underexploited plant. This review highlights the botany, uses of S. torvum as food in different parts of the world, uses of the plants in traditional medicine for treatment of various ailments, pharmacological activities of the plant and studies in vegetable grafting, as a rootstock against different biotic and abiotic stress.','Solanum torvum, botany, ethnobotany, pharmacological activity, vegetable grafting','Solanum torvum is a relatively lesser known vegetable, consumed by different group and communities across the world particularly in the tropic and sub tropical zones. Botanically, it is a perennial shrub and though cultivated in backyard and home garden in some region, it is considered as a weed in some area. Traditional use of the different parts of the plant has been reported in different parts of the world. Ethnobotanically, it use ranges from skin infection treatment, toothache, stomach ache, diabetes etc. Pharmacological activity of the plant has also been reported such as antidiabetic activity, anti bacterial activity, anti-ulcerogenic activity, hepatoprotective activity, anti-inflammatory and anti cancer activity. Different studies have also reported the potential use of the S. torvum as a rootstock against biotic and abiotic stress for enhancing production. However, more studies and trials may be conducted further to utilize the plant to its full potential.','-','L. Mashine, Suchand Datta, Claribel Grace Pradhan, Tsering Lanzes, Khushboo Sharma, Ps. Mariam Anal and Jome Rime (2023). An Overview on Solanum torvum Swartz; A Lesser Known Species. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 15(12): 368-374.'),(8195,'172','Discriminatory Analysis of Principal Components (DAPC) for Ancestry Estimation in Indian Sheep Populations','Priyanka Swami, Jaswant Singh, Mahender Miland Lakeshar, Radha Rani Swami, M.K. Verma, Nidhi Verma and Sunil Kumar Meena ','Discriminatory-Analysis-of-Principal-Components-(DAPC)-for-Ancestry-Estimation-in-Indian-Sheep-Populations-Priyanka-Swami-11.pdf','',1,'Discriminatory Analysis of Principal Components (DAPC) is a powerful method used in population genetics to estimate the ancestry and genetic structure of various populations. In this research paper, we applied DAPC to analyze Indian sheep populations using different SNP densities and four distinct methods: Combine, Delta, Information, and FST. The central focus was to evaluate the variation in \"a\" score values, a crucial parameter in DAPC, across different SNP densities and method. Our results reveal significant variations in the \"a\" score values across different SNP densities and methods, indicating the efficiency of DAPC in estimating ancestry and discerning genetic structure in Indian sheep populations. The 20K marker panel consistently demonstrated superior performance, closely resembling the original dataset. Comparative insights from previous studies on sheep populations are also discussed to put our findings in context.','SNP, FST, Marker, PCA, Population, Ancestry','Discriminatory Analysis of Principal Components (DAPC) is a valuable tool for estimating ancestry and assessing population structure in Indian sheep populations. The 20K marker panel consistently produced the best results, demonstrating its efficiency in capturing the genetic diversity of Indian sheep breeds. Our findings provide important insights into the genetic structure of Indian sheep populations and contribute to the broader field of population genetics. Future research can further explore the genetic diversity of Indian sheep populations using advanced genomic techniques and larger datasets. Additionally, investigating the functional implications of genetic diversity and ancestry in these populations can offer valuable insights for sheep breeding and conservation efforts.','-','Priyanka Swami, Jaswant Singh, Mahender Miland Lakeshar, Radha Rani Swami, M.K. Verma, Nidhi Verma and Sunil Kumar Meena (2024). Discriminatory Analysis of Principal Components (DAPC) for Ancestry Estimation in Indian Sheep Populations. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 16(1): 41-43.'),(8196,'170','Effect of Methods of Planting and Planting Density on Vegetative and Yield Parameters in Banana cv. Williams (Ratoon-I)','Lakshman Naika R., Anil I. Sabarad, Kanthraju V., Suhasini Jalawadi and Kirankumar Gorabal ','Effect-of-Methods-of-Planting-and-Planting-Density-on-Vegetative-and-Yield-Parameters-in-Banana-cv.-Williams-(Ratoon-I)-K-Tabasumbanu-68.pdf','',1,'The present study was carried out to observe the effect of methods of planting and planting density on growth and yield parameters of banana cv. Williams (Ratoon-I) during 2022-23. The experiment was laid out in the Randomized Complete Block Design with eight treatments which were replicated thrice. A significant difference among the different treatments in growth parameters was observed. The results revealed that, among the various treatments, T4 (Single row - 2.4×1.8 m), had highest values for pseudostem height (204.53 cm), pseudostem girth (67.73 cm), the number of functional leaves (14.80) and leaf area (18.58 m2). The yield parameters like bunch weight was highest in T4 (29.40 kg), bunch weight kg/hill in T6 (33.37 kg) and yield per hectare in T8 (91.39 t/ha).','Banana, Williams, Method of planting, Planting density, Growth and Yield','Among different treatments evaluated for growth parameters the treatment T4 (Single row - 2.4×1.8 m) and T3 (Single row- 2.1×1.8 m) had highest values for pseudostem height, pseudostem girth, the number of functional leaves and leaf area. For yield parameters, the highest bunch weight per plant was recorded in T4 (Single row - 2.4×1.8 m) bunch weight per hill in T6 (3 plants per hill - 2.7×1.8×0.3 m) and yield per hectare was recorded in treatment T8 (Paired row with zig-zag- 2.1×1.2×1.2 m).','-','Lakshman Naika R., Anil I. Sabarad, Kanthraju V., Suhasini Jalawadi and Kirankumar Gorabal (2023). Effect of Methods of Planting and Planting Density on Vegetative and Yield Parameters in Banana cv. Williams (Ratoon-I). Biological Forum – An International Journal, 15(12): 375-377.'),(8197,'172','Bio-Efficacy of Different Insecticides against Spotted Pod Borer Maruca vitrata (Geyer) Infesting Cowpea','Bhagwan S. Gawade, Makrand S. Karmarkar, Kumud V. Naik, Vinayak N. Jalgaonkar, Bapusaheb D. Shinde, Rajesh S. Mule, Rajedra G. Bhagwat, Udaykumar B. Pethe, Renuka S. Mahajan and Vedantika V. Jadhav ','Bio-Efficacy-of-Different-Insecticides-against-Spotted-Pod-Borer-Maruca-vitrata-(Geyer)-Infesting-Cowpea-Bhagwan-S-Gawade-12.pdf','',1,'The study was conducted at the Education and Research Farm, Department of Agricultural Botany, College of Agriculture, Dapoli, Dr. Balasaheb Sawant Konakan Krishi Vidyapeeth, Dapoli (MS) India during rabi season of 2022 on the bio-efficacy of different insecticides viz., spinosad 45 per cent SC, emamectin benzoate 5 per cent SG, flubendiamide 480 per cent EC, chlorantraniliprole 18.5 per cent EC, lambda cyhalothrin 5 per cent EC, indoxacarb 14.5 per cent SC, and azadirachtin 1 per cent against spotted pod borer Maruca vitrata (Geyer) infesting cowpea. The overall result revealed that all the insecticidal treatments were significantly superior over untreated control in minimizing the larval population of M. vitrata infesting cowpea. Among the treatments, spinosad 45 EC @ 0.003 per cent was found more effective in reducing the pod damage (2.89%) and followed by indoxacarb 14.5 SC @ 0.014 per cent (3.96%). The next best treatments were emamectin benzoate 5 SG @ 0.002 per cent (4.76%), lambda cyhalothrin 5 EC @ 0.003 per cent (5.85%), chlorantraniliprole 18.5 EC @ 0.001 per cent (7.56%), flubendiamide 480 EC @ 0.002 per cent (7.90%) and azadirachtin 0.003 per cent (9.86%). The highest pod damage (16.99%) was recorded in the untreated control. The highest cowpea green pod yield (14.22q ha-1) was achieved by spinosad 45 EC @ 0.003 per cent followed by indoxacarb 14.5 SC @ 0.014 per cent which recorded (13.70 q ha-1), emamectin benzoate 5 SG @ 0.002 per cent(13.25 q ha-1), lambda cyhalothrin 5 EC @ 0.003 per cent (12.36 q ha-1), Chlorantraniliprole 18.5 EC @ 0.001 per cent(11.17 q ha-1), Flubendiamide 480 EC @ 0.002 per cent (10.90 q ha-1) and azadirachtin 1 @ 0.003 per cent (10.12 q ha-1). Among all the treatments untreated control recorded lowest yield (9.14 q ha-1).','Pod damage, cowpea, yield, insecticides, spotted pod borer, M. vitrata','The study underscores the successful management of the cowpea spotted pod borer through a structured spray schedule. Despite its status as a significant pest for cowpea crops, the research reveals that the application of spinosad 45 EC at 0.003%, indoxacarb 14.5 SC at 0.014%, and emamectin benzoate 5 SG at 0.002% proved highly effective in protecting pods. The results suggest that incorporating these insecticides into the recommended spray routine can contribute to the efficient control of the cowpea spotted pod borer.','-','Bhagwan S. Gawade, Makrand S. Karmarkar, Kumud V. Naik, Vinayak N. Jalgaonkar, Bapusaheb D. Shinde, Rajesh S. Mule, Rajedra G. Bhagwat, Udaykumar B. Pethe, Renuka S. Mahajan and Vedantika V. Jadhav (2024). Bio-Efficacy of Different Insecticides Against Spotted Pod Borer Maruca vitrata (Geyer) Infesting Cowpea. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 16(1): 44-46.'),(8198,'172','Population Dynamics of Cabbage aphid, Brevicoryne brassicae L. on Five Brassicae species viz. Cabbage, Cauliflower, Broccoli, Chinese cabbage and Radish','Jesonkere Sutnga, H. Shila Devi, Imtinaro L., Damitre Lytan, Waluniba, Susanta Banik and Sabbithi Pavan','Population-Dynamics-of-Cabbage-aphid-Brevicoryne-brassicae-L-on-Five-Brassicae-species-viz-Cabbage-Cauliflower-Broccoli-Chinese-cabbage-and-Radish-H-Shila-Devi-13.pdf','',1,'A field experiment was carried out in Randomized Block Design (RBD) having four replication with five treatment at Experimental Research Farm, Department of Entomology, School of Agricultural Sciences and Rural Development (SASRD), Nagaland University, Medziphema campus during November, 2021 to March, 2022 to study the population dynamics of Cabbage aphid, Brevicoryne brassicae L. on five brassicae species viz., cabbage, cauliflower, broccoli, chinese cabbage and radish and their correlation with abiotic factors. The aphid attacked all the five brassicae crop viz., cabbage, chinese cabbage, cauliflower, broccoli and radish. The population was low in the beginning but gradually increased and reached its highest peak in the first week (cauliflower and broccoli) and second week of March (cabbage, chinese cabbage and radish) and found till the harvesting of the crop. The aphid was found to be most prevalent on cabbage (3.80 aphids/plant) followed by broccoli (2.78 aphids/plant), cauliflower (2.58 aphids/plant), chinese cabbage (0.93 aphids/plant), and radish (0.93 aphids/plant). Correlation analysis indicated that aphid population had positive significant correlation to temperature (°C), negatively significant to relative humidity (%) but non-significant to rainfall in cabbage and chinese cabbage. While, in Cauliflower and broccoli, it was found to have positive significant correlation with maximum temperature, negative with minimum relative humidity and non-significant with other weather parameters. In radish, the aphid population was significantly positive correlated with maximum temperature and negative with relative humidity.','Population dynamics, Brevicoryne brassicae, cabbage, chinese cabbage, cauliflower, broccoli, radish','The finding of the present study indicate that Cabbage aphid, Brevicoryne brassicae attacked all the five brassicae crop. The Cabbage aphid population was recorded highest on cabbage crops followed by broccoli, cauliflower, Chinese cabbage and radish. Cabbage and Chinese cabbage were found to be positively significant correlation to temperature (°C), negatively significant to relative humidity (%) but non-significant to rainfall. Where as in Cauliflower and broccoli had shown positive significant correlation with maximum temperature, negative with minimum relative humidity and non-significant with other weather parameters. While in radish, the aphid population was significantly positive correlated with maximum temperature and negative with relative humidity.','-','Jesonkere Sutnga, H. Shila Devi, Imtinaro L., Damitre Lytan, Waluniba, Susanta Banik and Sabbithi Pavan (2024). Population Dynamics of Cabbage aphid, Brevicoryne brassicae L. on Five Brassicae species viz., Cabbage, Cauliflower, Broccoli, Chinese cabbage and Radish. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 16(1): 47-52.'),(8199,'172','A Correlation Study of different Fertigation Doses and Foliar Sprays on Yield of Papaya Variety Surya','Karishma Sebastian, Bindu B. and Sajitha Rani T. ','A-Correlation-Study-of-different-Fertigation-Doses-and-Foliar-Sprays-on-Yield-of-Papaya-Variety-Surya-Karishma-Sebastian-14.pdf','',1,'A field experiment on papaya variety Surya with different doses of fertigation and micronutrient foliar sprays was conducted during the period 2018 – 2020 at Instructional Farm, College of Agriculture, Vellayani, Thiruvananthapuram. The experiment was laid out in randomised block design with combination of four fertigation doses of 75%, 100%, 125% and 150% RDF of N and K and three foliar sprays (1% 19:19:19, 0.5% ZnSO4 + 0.3% borax and water spray) which where compared with soil application of recommended dose of NPK (control 1) and soil application of NPK plant-1 year-1 based on soil test data as organic manures as combination of FYM, poultry manure and vermicompost in the ratio of 2:1:1 (control 2). The correlation coefficients indicate the presence of inherent association between various characters under study. The study revealed that the number of fruits per plant had very highly positive, significant correlation and very dependable relationship with yield (r=0.991), plant height (r=0.976), plant girth (r=0.955), number of leaves (r=0.979), leaf area index (r=0.986), fruit set percentage (r=0.990), fruit weight (r=0.974), fruit length (r=0.983), fruit girth (r=0.977) and flesh thickness (r=0.972).','Borax, correlation, fertigation, foliar sprays, ZnSO4','The findings of the study revealed that application of 100% RD of N and K through fertigation at weekly interval from one MAP to 20 MAP and foliar sprays of 1.0% 19:19:19 at bimonthly interval starting from 4 MAP to 16 MAP (T4) along with basal application of 850g rock phosphate and 15 kg FYM improved the biometric and yield parameters in papaya variety Surya and can be recommended for commercial papaya cultivation. The correlation analysis revealed a significantly superior and highly positive correlations between various parameters under study.','-','Karishma Sebastian, Bindu B. and Sajitha Rani T. (2024). A Correlation Study of different Fertigation Doses and Foliar Sprays on Yield of Papaya Variety Surya. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 16(1): 53-58.'),(8200,'170','Investigating Age Differences in Socio-emotional Development of Children Attending Different ECCE Centers','Soumya Hirelingannavar and Manjula Patil','Investigating-Age-Differences-in-Socio-emotional-Development-of-Children-Attending-Different-ECCE-Centers-Soumya-Hirelingannavar-69.pdf','',1,'The study was carried out in during the year 2018-20 in Dharwad taluk of Karnataka state. The aim of the study was to evaluate the emotional and social development of children in rural and urban settings and determine how age affects children\' socio- emotional development in rural and urban setting. A total of 208 children aged three to six years, comprising 104 from rural and 104 from urban areas, were chosen for the study. The necessary information was gathered using a general information questionnaire. Children in preschool were assessed for their socio-emotional development using the Transdisciplinary Play Based Assessment-2 tool. The influence of play-based activities on socio-emotional development was observed, analyzed, and studied using a qualitative approach that employed the naturalistic observation method. A study involved combination of participant observation, which comprised taking field notes, and video capturing of children engaged in unstructured play allowed for the creation of naturalistic observations. Most of the children in both rural and urban anganwadis fell into the Socio-emotional development watch and concern category, according to the results. Age and children\'s Socio-emotional development were discovered to be significantly correlated and different. The results of the t-test analysis with regard to age indicated that, there was a significant difference at the 0.01 percent significance level in the socio-emotional development of children. Children in the 49–60month age group (37.17) and the 36–48 month age group (32.44) had considerably lower mean scores (39.05) than children in the 61–72 month age group, as indicated by the difference value.','Socio-emotional development, preschoolers, play based activities, ECCE centres','In terms of their socio-emotional development, the majority of children in both rural and urban anganwadis fell into the watch and concern group. A noteworthy correlation was discovered between the kind of early childhood education facilities and the socio-emotional development of kids. Age and children\'s socio-emotional development were found to be significantly correlated. The socio-emotional development of children was found to be highly correlated with age, with older children (5–6 years old) scoring significantly higher on these domains.','-','Soumya Hirelingannavar and Manjula Patil (2023). Investigating Age Differences in Socio-emotional Development of Children Attending Different ECCE Centers. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 15(12): 378-384.'),(8201,'172','Estimates of variability, Heritability and Genetic Advance for Yield and Quality Traits in Vegetable Cowpea (Vigna unguiculata sub sp. sesquipedalis (L.) Verdcourt)','Airina C.K. and Sarada S.','Estimates-of-variability-Heritability-and-Genetic-Advance-for-Yield-and-Quality-Traits-in-Vegetable-Cowpea-(Vigna-unguiculata-sub-sp.-sesquipedalis-(L.)-Verdcourt)-Airina-CK-15.pdf','',1,'The phenotypic coefficient of variation (PCV), genotypic coefficient of variation (GCV), heritability and genetic advance were estimated for the 19 quantitative characters in fifteen crosses of vegetable cowpea in an experiment conducted at the Department of Vegetable Science, College of Agriculture, Vellayani in 2022-23. The PCV values for all the characters were found to be higher than the GCV values but in smaller magnitude, which implied a lesser influence of environmental factors for these characters. The Highest PCV and GCV values were observed for pod weight (52.80 and 51.60, respectively), followed by pods per plant (43.25 and 32.88, respectively). The highest values for heritability and genetic advance were recorded for pod weight (95.80 and 104.22, respectively). High heritability estimates coupled with genetic advance for characters such as vine length, terminal leaf width, lateral leaf width, pod length, pod weight, number of seeds per pod, 100 seed weight, protein content and keeping quality suggest the relevance of additive gene action in the improvement of these traits.','Yard long bean, variability, GCV, PCV, heritability, genetic advance','High PCV, GCV, heritability and genetic advance were observed for lateral leaf width, pod length and pod weight. The magnitude of PCV and GCV were highest for pod weight, while heritability estimates were highest for pod length and genetic advance for pods per plant. High estimates of heritability combined with genetic advance for traits, such as protein content, keeping quality, number of seeds per pod, 100 seed weight, vine length, terminal leaf width, lateral leaf width, pod length, pod weight, and pods per plant imply the importance of additive gene action in improving these traits. For characters such as days to flowering and days to harvest, though high heritability is recorded, genetic advance is moderate, which suggests the presence of non-additive gene action and the scope of improvement through suitable hybridization programmes.','-','Airina C.K. and Sarada S. (2024). Estimates of variability, Heritability and Genetic Advance for Yield and Quality Traits in Vegetable Cowpea (Vigna unguiculata sub sp. sesquipedalis (L.) Verdcourt). Biological Forum – An International Journal, 16(1): 59-63.'),(8202,'170','Validation and Feedback Analysis of Agromet Advisory Services in Nizamabad district of Telangana under KVK Nizamabad','B. Srilaxmi, P. Vijay Kumar, M. Suresh, B.V. Rajkumar, M. Swetha, S. Naveen Kumar and L. Sanjay ','Validation-and-Feedback-Analysis-of-Agromet-Advisory-Services-in-Nizamabad-district-of-Telangana-under-KVK-Nizamabad-B-Srilaxmi-70.pdf','',1,'The access to real time weather data supports the farmers in deciding their day-to-day field operations efficiently. District Agro-Met Unit (DAMU) utilizes the medium range weather forecast for issuing agro advisories at block level and disseminating the musing multimedia approach to reach maximum number of farmers at every corner of the village in India. During 2022-23a study was conducted to analyse the extent of impact of agromet advisories that benefitted the farming community of Nizamabad district through DAMU, KVK Nizamabad. The study was carried out in the month of March, 2023 using the platform of survey monkey using 103 whatsapp groups to collect the real time feedback information from the farmers to determine the extent of usage of weather forecasting service delivered during southwest monsoon 2022, northeast monsoon 2022, winter 2023 and determine the impact of DAMU, to know the accuracy and usefulness of advisories and importance of ICT tools in their dissemination. A total of 150 farmers responses have been recorded on the basis of block, usefulness of the weather forecasting service, its accuracy, their application in agricultural operations, satisfaction to the agromet advisories. The feedback from 150 farmers of Nizamabad district revealed that 81 % are receiving regular AAS bulletins out of which 68% are using them for their day-to-day farm operations with whatsapp being 78% best source for receiving agromet advisories and the district level rainfall forecast has high skill score in case of quantitative and qualitative analysis. ','Weather, Agromet advisories, District Agro-Met Unit (DAMU), Gramin Krishi Mausam Sewa (GKMS)','From the present study, it is concluded that majority of the farmers are receiving regular agromet advisory bulletins and using them for their day-to-day farm operations with major response of satisfaction to the service of DAMU project with WhatsApp being the most preferable medium for them in receiving the advisories. Validation of qualitative and quantitative verification methods for southwest monsoon indicated that high skill score was observed for Nizamabad district forecast and moderate skill score for agri sub divisions. Hence, the forecast at block level need to be improved. It was also found out that progressive farmers from every village are taking a lead in providing the Agromet Advisories information to their fellow farmers by sharing the timely weather information and also adding them in Whatsapp groups. However, there is a need to focus on the mode of disseminating the weather advisories to reach the illiterate farmers. ','-','B. Srilaxmi, P. Vijay Kumar, M. Suresh, B.V. Rajkumar, M. Swetha, S. Naveen Kumar and L. Sanjay (2023). Validation and Feedback Analysis of Agromet Advisory Services in Nizamabad district of Telangana under KVK Nizamabad. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 15(12): 385-389.'),(8203,'170','Impact of Socio-Economic Parameters on Knowledge Levels of Mulberry Growers In Chittoor District of Andhra Pradesh','A. Padmaja and G. Savithri','Impact-of-Socio-Economic-Parameters-on-Knowledge-Levels-of-Mulberry-Growers-In-Chittoor-District-of-Andhra-Pradesh-A-Padmaja-71.pdf','',1,'Silk farming is important agro-based rural industry that plays an important role in the rural economy and provides livelihood throughout the year. Technologies developed by the scientists ushered in the qualitative and quantitative characteristics of the cocoon crops. Still, there is a wide gap between the potential yield and the farmer\'s yield. The quality and productivity of cocoon crops mainly depend on the level of knowledge and adoption of advanced technologies by sericulture farmers. Knowledge has been found to have stronger impact on enhancing productivity in agriculture and its allied sectors. Technology advancement, transfer of technology, and its adoption to promote the overall development of sericulture industry. Obviously, knowledge of improved technologies plays an important role in the adoption of improved technologies and in the enhancement of the qualitative and quantitative characteristics of cocoon crops. Socio-economic factors may influence the level of knowledge and, in turn, the adoption of the improved technologies. Therefore, the present investigation focused on understanding the impact of socio-economic determinants such as education, age, experience, family size, information seeking behaviour, income, etc. on the knowledge level of the sericulture farmers in Chittoor district of Andhra Pradesh. The study revealed that socio-economical parameters have a profound influence on the knowledge level of sericulture farmers. Farmers with an age group of 36–55, high school education, small family size, experience, and a high-income level had a good knowledge level.','Impact, Socio-economic factors, Knowledge, Seiculturists','Based on the results of the present study, it can be concluded that the knowledge levels of new mulberry cultivation technologies among the three categories of sericulture farmers in Chittoor district are high among marginal, small, and large farmers. The knowledge of farmers greatly influenced the mulberry yield parameters. Experience, education, farm size, and participation in various extension activities seemed to help significantly in productivity and quality parameters. However, it can be recommended to provide more practical training and motivation towards knowledge enhancement with dedication. The present study has also shown that the socio-economic factors of farmers were found to be important in determining the adoption of recommended sericultural technologies. Hence, for the introduction of new technologies in mulberry cultivation in Chittoor district of Andhra Pradesh, farmers’s socio-economic conditions must also be considered.\r\nThe present investigation has been focused on understanding the impact of socio-economic parameters on the knowledge level of sericultural farmers in the Chittoor district of Andhra Pradesh. The study indicated that socio-economic factors like experience, education, farm size, and participation in various extension activities significantly improved the knowledge level of three categories of sericulture farmers, resulting in an elevation of qualitative and quantitative yield parameters for the mulberry crop. Still, there is a gap in knowledge level in the package of practices for mulberry. Therefore, it is necessary to focus on motivating and creating awareness among sericulturists about recommended mulberry cultivation techniques. Therefore, extension activities should be designed in such a way, considering socio-economic factors, to convince sericulture farmers. Further, the extension system should be actively involved in motivating sericulture farmers by using relevant extension methods to elevate the mulberry leaf yield parameters. \r\n','-','A. Padmaja and G. Savithri (2023). Impact of Socio-Economic Parameters on Knowledge Levels of Mulberry Growers In Chittoor District of Andhra Pradesh. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 15(12): 390-395.'),(8204,'172','Histomorphological Studies on the One Humped Camel’s Rectum (Camelus dromedarius)','Vijay Kumar Yogi, Pankaj Kumar Thanvi, Sanwar Mal, Ram Kumar Gahlot, Raj Kumar Siyag, Punam and Pura Ram ','Histomorphological-Studies-on-the-One-Humped-Camel’s-Rectum-(Camelus-dromedarius)-Vijay-Kumar-Yogi-16.pdf','',1,'This histological study of camel rectum was done on 6 samples of dead camel which is obtained from recently died camel belongs to both male and female camel. Wall of rectum in camel was made up of four layers tunica mucosa, tunica submucosa, tunica muscularis and serosa. The lining epithelium, lamina propria and muscularis mucosae were three present in tunica mucosa. A loose connective tissue with various amount of blood vessels found in submucosa of rectal wall. A circular layer of muscles and longitudinal layer which was present in outer side in which outer longitudinal muscle layer was thin in campare to inner circular layer of tunica muscularis. Outer most layer of rectal wall was the tunica serosa or adventitia which was madeup of various types of fibers like collagen, reticular and reticular. ','Histomorphology, one humped camel, rectum, tunica','Rectal wall of camel rectum was made up of four layers; tunica mucosa, tunica submucosa, tunica muscularis and tunica serosa. Tunica mucosa was the inner most and folded layer of rectal wall. Folds of rectal wall helped in absorption for different nutrients. A loose connective tissue with various amount of blood vessels found in submucosa of rectal wall. Tunica muscularis layer was composed by thick inner circular and thin outer longitudinal layer. Tunica serosa was outermost layer and contained reticular, collagen and elastic fibers.','-','Vijay Kumar Yogi, Pankaj Kumar Thanvi, Sanwar Mal, Ram Kumar Gahlot, Raj Kumar Siyag, Punam and Pura Ram (2024). Histomorphological Studies on the One Humped Camel’s Rectum (Camelus dromedarius). Biological Forum – An International Journal, 16(1): 64-67.'),(8205,'170','Rainfall Trend Analysis of Anakapalle District of North Coastal Andhra Pradesh','Kumari M.B.G.S., Chitkala Devi T., Aliveni A., Ramanamurthy K.V. and Bharatha Lakshmi M.','Rainfall-Trend-Analysis-of-Anakapalle-District-of-North-Coastal-Andhra-Pradesh-Kumari-M.B.G.S-72.pdf','',1,'Climate change has become one of the most significant challenges for sustainable development. A thorough understanding of the patterns of rainfall in this dynamic environment will aid in making better decisions and strengthening communities\' capacity to withstand extreme weather occurrences. Accurately predicting precipitation trends is crucial in a country’s future economic development. Therefore, analysis of trends at the local and regional levels is far more pertinent for specific development and adaptation plans to mitigate the effects of climate change. In this study annual as well as seasonal rainfall trend of Anakapalle district was analysed for the period 1952-2020. Rainfall at RARS, Anakapalle from 1952-2020 exhibited an ascending trend as the value of Mann- Kendall’s test and the magnitude of Sen’s slope estimator were both positive and were found to be 0.007 and 0.245, respectively. The findings revealed an upward tendency for the months of February, March, April, May, August, and September, and a downward trend for the months of January, June, July, October, and December. The rainfall trend during the monsoon period (South West and North East monsoon period) showed decreasing trend while the pre monsoon period exhibited a positive trend. Overall Rainfall trends indicate that distinct climate change has occurred during the last 69 years.','Mann-Kendall test, Monsoon period, Rainfall, Sen’s Slope factor, Trend analysis','The annual and pre monsoon (March-May) rainfall of Anakapalle for 69 years is in increasing trend, where as monsoon rainfall (both South West & North East) is in decreasing trend. Thus trend analysis is highly useful in understanding the monsoon pattern of a district and for its effective use in crop planning in future and for decision making for policy makers.','-','Kumari M.B.G.S., Chitkala Devi T., Aliveni A., Ramanamurthy K.V. and Bharatha Lakshmi M. (2023). Rainfall Trend Analysis of Anakapalle District of North Coastal Andhra Pradesh. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 15(12): 396-402.'),(8206,'172','Understanding and Exploration of Challenges Faced by MGNREGA Beneficiaries in Samastipur District of Bihar','Shaloo Pal, Satya Prakash, Shipra Kumari and Sradha Kumari ','Understanding-and-Exploration-of-Challenges-Faced-by-MGNREGA-Beneficiaries-in-Samastipur-District-of-Bihar-Satya-Prakash-17.pdf','',1,'The Mahatma Gandhi National Rural Employment Guarantee Act stands as the most extensive initiative for rights-based social protection, ensuring fundamental income security for a significant number of recipients. In this capacity, the program holds a prominent position in the endeavours of the Indian government, as it legally guarantees employment opportunities for each rural household annually. The study aims to assess the challenges encountered by the MGNREGA beneficiaries, during the working period. The study was carried out over 120 respondents in Samastipur district of Bihar under the Pusa block to find out the constraints faced by MGNREGA beneficiaries and their suggestion. The constraints are categorised in four items. (i) Social constraints, (ii) Psychological constraints (iii) Institutional constraints and (iv) Cultural constraints. Finding of the major constraints under the following component is Gender disparity, social stigma, Lack of adequate facility at work site, Lack of decision -making power and its mean value is 67.75, 65.79, 67.75, 61.79, respectively.\r\nThe MGNREGA Scheme (Mahatma Gandhi National Rural Employment) Guarantee Act Beneficiaries ‘often have a valuable suggestion to improve the program as increasing the number of employment days, ensure timely wage payments, Enhance the transparency in the allocation of work and fund utilization, Provide more employment opportunities, Focus on Women Participation and Conduct an awareness campaign. These are some general suggestions, and specific feedback may vary based on the need and priorities of individual beneficiaries. Examining the challenges associated with the impact of the MGNREGA Scheme on rural women revealed hurdles such as accessibility, gender-specific constraints, and implementation issues. However, it is crucial to acknowledge the scheme\'s significant contribution in enhancing livelihoods, empowering women, and fostering socio-economic development in rural areas.\r\n','MGNREGA Scheme, Social constraints, Institutional constraints','On the basis of above finding the study revealed that there is a need to Propose policy recommendations to enhance the effectiveness of MGNREGA Scheme considering potential modifications to program design, implementation strategies, and coordination with other rural development initiatives. As an outcome, there is a need to focus the effectiveness of institutions interms of workplace atmosphere and to provide necessary amenities for women at work in order to promote a positive mindset towards the MGNREGA Scheme.','-','Shaloo Pal, Satya Prakash, Shipra Kumari and Sradha Kumari (2024). Understanding and Exploration of Challenges Faced by MGNREGA Beneficiaries in Samastipur District of Bihar. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 16(1): 68-71.'),(8207,'172','Comparative Hemato-biochemical Evaluations of Canine Pyometra','Renuka Mishra, Pankaj Chayal, Neeti Kopal Bante and Sunil Kumar Meena ','Comparative-Hemato-biochemical-Evaluations-of-Canine-Pyometra-Renuka-Mishra-18.pdf','',1,'Canine pyometra results in the accumulation of pus in the progesterone-influenced uterus of unmated canines. Clinical symptoms like purulent vaginal discharge, abdominal pain, lethargy, depression, anorexia, polyuria, polydipsia and vomiting are observed. Without timely treatment, it can progress to peritonitis, sepsis, nephritis, and the dysfunction of multiple organs. Systemic effects of canine pyometra can be indicated by various hemato-biochemical parameters. Sixteen female dogs with open and closed pyometra of various breeds, ages ranging between 2-12 years, were examined on clinical aspect at City Teaching Veterinary Clinical Complex, College of Veterinary Science and Animal Husbandry, Anjora, Durg, Chhattisgarh. The suspected diagnosis was based on history taken from owners and overt clinical signs which were later confirmed by transabdominal ultrasonographic examinations. Analysis of Haemato-biochemical parameters before starting the treatment protocols in all the pyometra-affected dogs was performed. Approximately, three milliliters of blood were collected from cephalic and saphenous veins aseptically in EDTA-containing vials (TLC and Hb) and clot-activated vials (BUN and Creatinine) for hemato-biochemical evaluation. An increase in the number of leucocytes and reduced hemoglobin concentration were found in canine pyometra. Increased creatinine and BUN values show compromised efficiency of kidneys in filtering nitrogenous wastes from the blood circulation in pyometra-affected dogs.','Haemoglobin, BUN, White blood cell count, Canines, Pyometra, Creatinine','Pyometra is a multifactorial disease that commonly occurs during the diestrus phase of female canines. An increase in the number of leucocytes and reduced hemoglobin concentration were found in canine pyometra. Increased creatinine and BUN values show compromised efficiency of kidneys in filtering nitrogenous wastes from the blood circulation in pyometra-affected dogs.','-','Renuka Mishra, Pankaj Chayal, Neeti Kopal Bante and Sunil Kumar Meena (2024). Comparative Hemato-biochemical Evaluations of Canine Pyometra. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 16(1): 72-75.'),(8208,'172','Genetic Divergence Studies in Pigeonpea [Cajanus cajan (L). Millips] Genotypes','P.R. Chavan, V.K. Gite, D.K. Patil, V.R. Bhakad and A.A. Madake','Genetic-Divergence-Studies-in-Pigeonpea-[Cajanus-cajan-(L)-Millips]-Genotypes-PR-Chavan-19.pdf','',1,'The experiment was conducted during Kharif-2023 for study of genetic diversity of 42 genotypes of pigeonpea using D2 statistics method of Mahalanobis. Genetic diversity of the forty two genotypes of pigeonpea was accessed for nine characters in a randomized block design with two replications at Agriculture Research Station, Badnapur. Forty two genotypes of pigeonpea were grouped into six clusters which indicated diversity. Cluster I had the maximum number of 24 germplasms, Cluster III had 9, Cluster II had 6, Cluster IV, V and VI had 01 germplasm each respectively. The highest distance between two clusters was existed between Cluster II and V (31.48) indicating greatest divergence. The maximum intra-cluster distance of 9.96 was noticed in cluster III. High yielding diverse genotypes viz., BDN-2013-02, AKTM-2117, BDN-2019-05 and BDN-2013-05 of cluster I and ICP-7952, ICP-7939, ICP-16553 of cluster II and BDN-2019-33 of cluster III may be used for future hybridization programme for further yield improvement in pigeonpea.','Pigeonpea, Genetic diversity, Clusters and D2 Analysis','Out of the nine characters that were examined, the number of secondary branches was found to have the greatest contribution to genetic divergence followed by plant height, 100 seed weight, days to maturity, number of primary branches, days to 50% flowering, number of pods per plant, number of seeds per pod and seed yield per plant.','-','P.R. Chavan, V.K. Gite, D.K. Patil, V.R. Bhakad and A.A. Madake (2024). Genetic Divergence Studies in Pigeonpea [Cajanus cajan (L). Millips] Genotypes. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 16(1): 76-78.'),(8209,'172','Pathological Studies on Granulomatous Nephritis in Pig','Shobha Burdak, Indu Vyas, Hemant Dadhich, Shesh Asopa, Manisha Mehra, Hiteshwar Singh Yadav and Nikhil Pal Bajia','Pathological-Studies-on-Granulomatous-Nephritis-in-Pig-SHOBHA-BURDAK-20.pdf','',1,'Five hundred and eighty-six kidney samples were screened to establish the diversity of renal disorders in pigs irrespective of age, sex and breed at organised and unorganised farms of Bikaner, Jaipur and Alwar districts of Rajasthan. Out of 586 specimens, total of 154 specimens of kidneys were revealed macroscopic lesions. In two (1.30 per cent) cases of granulomatous nephritis, small sized many granulomas on surface of kidney were processed for further histopathological examination at the Department of Veterinary Pathology, Bikaner. The gross lesion showed miliary granules on the surface kidney. The surface was whitish-grey in colour. The kidney showed yellowish areas surrounded by the large pale zones with the remaining portions of kidneys essentially normal. Histopathological examination revealed multiple nodular aggregations of epithelioid-like macrophages and multinucleate giant cells. Severe expansion of the interstitium by inflammatory cells, consisting predominantly of lymphocytes and eosinophils was present. ','Granulomatous Nephritis, Pig, Histopathology, Staining','The study focused on histopathology of kidneys among pigs. Investigational parameters like tubular degeneration and granulomas were considered as significant changes that occur during advanced stages of chronic kidney disease, compared with early stages of the disease. The histopathology findings can help elucidate the reason behind this condition might be parasitic infection or allergic reactions. These indications will help out to identify therapeutic targets and the stages of disease at which they should be initiated.','-','Shobha Burdak, Indu Vyas, Hemant Dadhich, Shesh Asopa, Manisha Mehra, Hiteshwar Singh Yadav and Nikhil Pal Bajia (2024). Pathological Studies on Granulomatous Nephritis in Pig. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 16(1): 79-81.'),(8210,'172','Month-wise Survivability in Sirohi Goat Kids under Farm and Field Condition','Pankaj Chayal, R.K. Nagda, Renuka Mishra and Sunil Kumar Meena','Month-wise-Survivability-in-Sirohi-Goat-Kids-under-Farm-and-Field-Condition-Pankaj-Chayal-21.pdf','',1,'A study was conducted on survivability of Sirohi kids in different age group (0-3,3-6,6-12 month) under farm and field condition. Data were accessed from 2015 to 2021, with the information on 504 mortality records maintained at College of Veterinary and Animal science, Navania, Udaipur as AICRP field unit and Bojunda (Chittorgarh) as farm unit. At pre-weaning stage (0-3 months) highest survivability was found in September month (97.85±1.616%) and lowest survivability was observed in April month (88.00±1.745%). Whereas in post-weaning age (3-6 months, 6-12 months) highest survivability was estimated in April month as 97.77±4.299% and 99.00±12.580%, respectively and lowest survivability was observed in December and July as 55.14±5.389 and 87.75±3.631%, respectively.','Survivability, Kids, Month-wise','This study confirms that overall survivability rates were 94.09±0.511%, 86.23±1.617% and 93.22±1.708% in 0-3, 3-6, 6-12 months of age respectively. Month wise survivability of kids at 0-3 months of age was observed highest in September (97.85±1.616 %) and lowest in April (88.00±1.74 %). Month wise survivability of kids at 3-6 months of age was observed highest in April (97.77±4.299 %) and lowest in December (55.14±5.389 %). Month wise survivability of kids at 6-12 months of age was observed highest in April (99.00±12.580 %) and lowest in July (87.75±3.631 %). Management practices aimed at improving the health and survival of goats need to focus on countering unfavourable factors.','-','Pankaj Chayal, R.K. Nagda, Renuka Mishra and Sunil Kumar Meena (2024). Month-wise Survivability in Sirohi Goat Kids under Farm and Field Condition. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 16(1): 82-84.'),(8211,'170','First Sighting of Exotic Alligator gar, Atractosteus spatula (Actinopterygii: Lepisosteidae), from Diu, India- an Ecological Risk to Fish Diversity','Rath Shibananda, Bungdon Shangningam and Mishra Subhrendu Sekhar','First-Sighting-of-Exotic-Alligator-gar-Atractosteus-spatula-(Actinopterygii-Lepisosteidae)-from-Diu-India--an-Ecological-Risk-to-Fish-Diversity-Bungdon-Shangningam-73.pdf','',1,'An exotic alligator gar, Atractosteus spatula (Lacepède, 1803), is reported from a confined pond inside the campus of Fishery Department, Diu, India. The discovery of an exotic alligator gar has prompted discussions about potential ecological risks to the local fish diversity. In light of concerns regarding the potential invasiveness of this voracious fish species and its potential to disrupt the existing fish populations, various strategies to mitigate these risks have been deliberated in the present paper.','Alligator Gar, Aquarium Fish, Diu','-','-','Rath Shibananda, Bungdon Shangningam and Mishra Subhrendu Sekhar (2023). First Sighting of Exotic Alligator gar, Atractosteus spatula (Actinopterygii: Lepisosteidae), from Diu, India- an Ecological Risk to Fish Diversity. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 15(12): 403-405.'),(8212,'170','Influence of Integrated Nutrient Management on Growth and Seed Yield of Cowpea (Vigna unguiculata) (L)','Vibha Shrivastava, Prakash Ghodeswar, Avdesh Singh Choudhary and Navneet Satankar ','Influence-of-Integrated-Nutrient-Management-on-Growth-and-Seed-Yield-of-Cowpea-(Vigna-unguiculata)-(L)-Vibha-Shrivastava-74.pdf','',1,'Among various pulse crops cowpea [Vigna unguiculata (L.) Walp.] is an important food legume and grown over an area of 0.5 million ha, it is adapted to wide range of soils, rainfall situations and fits as an crop in multiple and intercropping systems. The present investigation was carried on Rabi-2022 cv. Pusa Komal at the Horticultural Research Farm, Sardar Patel University, Balaghat (M.P.). The experiment was laid out in a Randomized Block Design (RBD) with eight treatments in three replications. The applications of organic and inorganic nutrient applications like T1- Control, T2-100% RDF, T3- 75% RDF + 25% FYM, T4-75% RDF + 25% Vermicompost, T5-50% RDF + 50% FYM, T6-50% RDF + 50% Vermicompost, T7-25% RDF + 75% FYM, T8-25% RDF + 75% Vermicompost was used for the experiment. At the growth stage of 25, 50 and 75 DAS of crop, the maximum plant height was observed under the treatment the treatment T2 (100 % RDF), followed by the treatment T3 (75% RDF + 25% FYM) and T5 (50% RDF + 50% FYM), at the growth stage of 25, 50 & 75 DAS of crop, the maximum number of primary branches/plant was observed under the treatment T2 (100 % RDF), followed by the treatment T3 (75% RDF + 25% FYM) and T5 (50% RDF + 50% FYM), while the minimum plant height and number of primary branches/plant at 25, 50 & 75 DAS was observed under the treatment T1 (Control), the early days for 1st flowering in cowpea was observed under the treatment T2 (100 % RDF), followed by the treatment T3 (75% RDF + 25% FYM) and T5 (50% RDF + 50% FYM), the early days for 1st Fruiting in cowpea was observed under the treatment T2 (100 % RDF), followed by the treatment T3 (75% RDF + 25% FYM) and T5 (50% RDF + 50% FYM), the Days to maturity of Fruits in cowpea was observed under the treatment T2 (100 % RDF), followed by the treatment T3 (75% RDF + 25% FYM) and T5 (50% RDF + 50% FYM), the maximum total Number of pods per plant at maturity and pod length was observed under the treatment T2 (100 % RDF), followed by the treatment T3 (75% RDF + 25% FYM), the maximum pod diameter was observed under the treatment T2 (100 % RDF), followed by the treatment T7 (25% RDF + 75% FYM) and T5 (50% RDF + 50% FYM), the maximum seed yield per plant, seed yield per plot (kg) and seed yield (q/ha) was observed under the treatment T2 (100 % RDF), followed by the treatment T3 (75% RDF + 25% FYM) and T5 (50% RDF + 50% FYM), the maximum Seed Weight (g) was observed under the treatment T8 (25% RDF + 75% Vermicompost), followed by the treatment T7 (25% RDF + 75% FYM) and T6 (50% RDF + 50% Vermicompost), the maximum gross return was found in the treatment T2 because of the nutrient application is 100% recommended dose (100% RDF) they are small in quantity and less in price compare to other manures, the average net return or the maximum net profit was obtained under treatment T2 (100% RDF) which was closely followed by treatment T3 (75% RDF + 25% FYM), while the minimum was found in all the treatments under the treatment T1 (Control). Limited focus on integrated approaches, optimizing nutrient ratios, lack of long-term studies, and socio-economic constraints are key challenges.','RDF, FYM, cowpea, Crop, Manure, Nutrients, Pulses and Pusa Komal','From above experimental findings on Effect of Integrated Nutrient Management on it is concluded that treatment T1, 100% RDF performed best for yield, quality parameters and economics in Cow pea.','-','Vibha Shrivastava, Prakash Ghodeswar, Avdesh Singh Choudhary and Navneet Satankar (2023). Influence of Integrated Nutrient Management on Growth and Seed Yield of Cowpea (Vigna unguiculata) (L). Biological Forum – An International Journal, 15(12): 406-410.'),(8213,'170','To Study the Awareness of Beneficiaries of NRHM (National Rural Health Mission) on different Public Health Care Facilities Available for Improving Maternal Health of Rural Women','Amar Nath Taram and Pratima Shukla ','To-Study-the-Awareness-of-Beneficiaries-of-NRHM-(National-Rural-Health-Mission)-on-different-Public-Health-Care-Facilities-Available-for-Improving-Maternal-Health-of-Rural-Women-Amar-Nath-Taram-75.pdf','',1,'A field experiment assessed awareness and utilization of maternal health services under the National Rural Health Mission (NRHM) among 120 married women in rural Chhattisgarh. While the result find utilization of antenatal care services was high (87.5% registered early for ANC), overall awareness of NRHM entitlements was low (only 22.5% fully aware). Specific knowledge gaps were found regarding cash incentives under Janani Suraksha Yojana, free institutional delivery, the role of ASHAs, and best practices during delivery. Education level, age, income and social participation had significant positive association with awareness. Education, age, income and social participation had significant positive association with awareness. Despite good antenatal coverage, poor awareness remains a bottleneck for optimal utilization of government maternal health facilities. Tailored communication strategies along with women’s empowerment initiatives are needed to increase knowledge and utilization of NRHM maternal health services in rural communities. Strengthening community outreach and addressing health systems gaps are vital to actualize the full potential of NRHM benefits. The key challenges: low awareness of NRHM maternal entitlements among rural women hampers optimal utilization of government health facilities. Strengthening community outreach and health systems is vital to increase knowledge and bridge gaps in rural maternal care.','NRHM, Knowledge, Empowerment, Janani Suraksha Yojana and Public Health Care','This study aimed to assess the awareness and utilization of maternal health services under the National Rural Health Mission (NRHM) among rural women in Chhattisgarh. The results showed that the majority of respondents (75%) were married after 18 years of age, indicating delayed marriage. Early antenatal registration was high at 87.5%, implying good health-seeking behavior. However, awareness of NRHM services was low, with only 22.5% of women being fully aware. Awareness was particularly poor regarding entitlements like cash incentives under Janani Suraksha Yojana and the role of ASHAs in accompanying pregnant women.\r\nBivariate analysis showed that awareness was significantly associated with education level, age, income and organizational membership. Therefore, improving women\'s education, social participation and financial independence can improve their awareness and utilization of maternal health services. Mass media campaigns are also needed to increase public knowledge of NRHM entitlements and benefits. ASHAs require further training and sensitization to fulfill their roles as facilitators of maternal health services.\r\nIn conclusion, this study highlights gaps in awareness as a key barrier to optimal utilization of NRHM maternal health services in rural Chhattisgarh. It provides evidence that women\'s education, empowerment and mass media campaigns should be leveraged to increase awareness and access to vital public health entitlements. The NRHM program also needs strengthen its human resources and community outreach to achieve the full potential of its initiatives.\r\n','-','Amar Nath Taram and Pratima Shukla (2023). To Study the Awareness of Beneficiaries of NRHM (National Rural Health Mission) on different Public Health Care Facilities Available for Improving Maternal Health of Rural Women. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 15(12): 411-415.'),(8214,'172','Therapeutic Management of Open Pyometra in Canines','Neeti Kopal Bante, Renuka Mishra, S.K. Maiti, Shraddha Sinha, Saleema Ahmed Quadri and Pankaj Chayal ','Therapeutic-Management-of-Open-Pyometra-in-Canines-Renuka-Mishra-22.pdf','',1,'When reproductive activity is desirable, conservative medical treatment is a possibility, but there is a risk of recurrence. The present study was designed to evaluate the efficacy of various treatment protocols for open pyometra in canines. The study was conducted in the Teaching Veterinary Clinical Complex, College of Veterinary Science and Animal Husbandry, Anjora, Durg, Chhattisgarh. The suspicion of open pyometra was based upon the history of diestrus, mating without conception 15 days earlier, and clinical signs of inappetence or anorexia, lethargy, polyuria, polydipsia, vomition, nausea, and vulvar discharge were observed. These dogs were divided into 4 groups having 4 animals affected with open pyometra in each group based on different treatment protocols followed for its therapeutic management. The treatment protocol followed for groups I, II, III, and IV were Parentral Antibiotic + Intrauterine flushing, Parentral Antibiotic + Intrauterine flushing + Misoprostol, Parentral Antibiotic + Intrauterine flushing + PGF2α and Parentral Antibiotic + Intrauterine flushing + Misoprostol + PGF2α, respectively. The efficacy of treatment protocols was evaluated based on the percentage of animals recovered or unrecovered in groups of different treatment protocols. The treatment response was found to be 100% in all hormonally treated groups and 50 % in the remaining group of open pyometra-affected dogs. It can be concluded that the administration of prostaglandin F2α along with prostaglandin E1 (misoprostol) resulted in increased uterine contraction with expulsion of uterine contents and cervical dilatation. The recurrence of pyometra was thought to be more in prostaglandin F2 and E1 treated dogs due to hormonal imbalance during the estrus cycle.','Intrauterine flushing, Parenteral Antibiotic, Misoprostol, PGF2α','It can be concluded that the administration of prostaglandin F2α along with prostaglandin E1 (misoprostol) resulted in increased uterine contraction with expulsion of uterine contents and cervical dilatation in a shorter duration of time. The recurrence of pyometra was thought to be more in prostaglandin F2 and E1 treated dogs due to comparatively more hormonal manipulation during the estrus cycle, but recovery was quite effective. ','-','Neeti Kopal Bante, Renuka Mishra, S.K. Maiti, Shraddha Sinha, Saleema Ahmed Quadri and Pankaj Chayal (2024). Therapeutic Management of Open Pyometra in Canines. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 16(1): 85-88.'),(8215,'171','Assessment of Antileishmanial Potential of Solanum nigrum and Alstonia scholaris: New Hope for Leishmaniasis Treatment','Jaspreet Kaur and Monika ','Assessment-of-Antileishmanial-Potential-of-Solanum-nigrum-and-Alstonia-scholaris-New-Hope-for-Leishmaniasis-Treatment-Jaspreet-Kaur-7.pdf','',1,'In the present investigation, the leishmanicidal efficacy of ethanolic extracts of leaves of Alstonia scholaris and bark of Solanum nigrum were investigated against murine Leishmania donovani infection. The in vitro investigations showed effective suppression of parasites. The results showed that the IC50 values obtained for S. nigrum were comparatively lower than A. scholaris, leading to the selection of this particular plant for subsequent in vivo investigations. The leishmanicidal efficacy of the S. nigrum leaf extract was evaluated by analyzing the parasite count and humoral immune responses. After a week of administration of plant extracts to all the infected and treated BALB/c mice, the parasite load decreased significantly compared to the only infected animals. The administration of plant extracts at concentrations 100 mg/kg and 200 mg/kg b.wt resulted in higher IgG2a and lower IgG1 levels in treated animals compared to infected controls. The SSG-treated animals demonstrated a decrease in IgG2a and an increase in IgG1 levels and higher DTH Responses. This finding indicates that the examined plant extracts possess the potential to counteract the immunosuppressive effects of the parasitic infection. The administration of a larger dose of the plant extract derived from S. nigrum has been observed to provide protection against experimental murine visceral leishmaniasis. ','Solanum nigrum, Alstonias cholaris, leishmanicidal activity, Leishmania donovani, in-vivo studies, in-vitro studies, immune response, and plant extracts','The result of this investigation indicates that the plant extract is effective in vitro against both SAG-resistant and susceptible strains of Leishmania donovani. A higher dose of S. nigrum plant extract provides protection contrary to experimental murine visceral leishmaniasis, as evidenced by a reduction in parasite burden and the production of humoral immunity. Even though the lessening in parasite load following herbal treatment was less than that observed with the standard drug SSG, hepatotoxicity and nephrotoxicity were not observed. DTH assessments affirm the potential of Solanum nigrum and Alstonia scholaris in leishmaniasis treatment, advocating for their consideration in therapeutic strategies. More research is required on animal models such as hamsters to determine their antileishmanial efficacy.','-','-'),(8216,'172','Impact of Oxidative Stress on Serum Glucose Level of Different Age Group in Poultry','Punam, Ruchi Maan, Sunita Pareek, Kapil Kumar Godara, Vijay Kumar Yogi, Shashi Choudhary and Rohit Juneja ','Impact-of-Oxidative-Stress-on-Serum-Glucose-Level-of-Different-Age-Group-in-Poultry-Punam-23.pdf','',1,'An investigation was carried out to determine the effect of oxidative stress on serum metabolite i.e. glucose level in non-descript broilers at the age of 2 weeks, 4-6 weeks and older than 8 weeks during moderate and hot humid ambience. Serum metabolite i.e. glucose level is investigated in this study. The overall mean value of serum glucose during moderate ambience was8.75± 0.07 mmol/L.\r\nWhen we compare the overall mean value of serum glucose in moderate and hot humid ambience, the value of hot humid ambience was significantly (p≤0.01) higher. The age effect was highly significant (p ≤0.01) in both ambiences on glucose mean values. The pattern of changes was similar during the both ambiences. \r\nIt was concluded that hot humid ambience produced marked effect on the serum levels of metabolite i.e. glucose. It can be recommended that broilers must be supplemented with appropriate antioxidants to defend them from harsh effects of adverse ambient temperature and oxidative stress. This would not only protect the broilers from harsh effects of free radicals produced but also increase the immune response of growing broilers to defend against the infectious agents. The supplementation of antioxidants will also improve the growth of broilers which would help in improving the economic status of farmer.\r\nThus, it can be concluded that though there is no evident symptom of oxidative stress but diagnosis can be made with the alterations in serum glucose level. Alteration in the levels of serum glucose level clearly indicate their involvement which can further be utilized to improve the condition of broilers during extremes of temperatures.\r\n','Glucose, oxidative stress, broiler, temperature','The levels of glucose increased with increase in age according to this investigation which may be due to mobilization of nutrient with increasing age and hormonal imbalance in birds.','-','Punam, Ruchi Maan, Sunita Pareek, Kapil Kumar Godara, Vijay Kumar Yogi, Shashi Choudhary and Rohit Juneja (2024). Impact of Oxidative Stress on Serum Glucose Level of Different Age Group in Poultry. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 16(1): 89-91.'),(8217,'156','Isolation and Molecular Identification of Bacterial Species from Vindhyachal forest Madhya Pradesh for Biological Control of Early Blight','Omshri Singh and Deepak Bharti','Isolation-and-Molecular-Identification-of-Bacterial-Species-from-Vindhyachal-forest--Madhya-Pradesh-for-Biological-Control-of-Early-Blight-Omshri-Singh-160.pdf','',1,'The rhizosphere, a narrow region of soil in direct contact with root secretions and significantly influenced by soil microorganisms, was the focus of a recent study. This study examined the microflora of the Vindhyachal forest in Madhya Pradesh, with an emphasis on the isolation and molecular identification of bacterial species from the forest’s remote areas. These microorganisms may have potential applications in the biological control of Early Blight, a disease commonly affecting potato and tomato crops. The study faced difficulties in the isolation and molecular identification of bacterial species from remote areas of the Vindhyachal forest, which required precise collection and handling of soil and plant root samples. By exploring the microbial diversity in these areas, the aim is to identify potential biocontrol agents that could provide an environmentally friendly and sustainable solution to managing Early Blight. Soil samples from the rhizosphere were collected using a standard protocol. Plant root materials, known as rhizoplanes, were also collected during October and November from remote areas of the Vindhyachal forest in Madhya Pradesh. The samples were serially diluted and streaked over Nutrient Agar media plates for bacterial isolation. The cultured bacteria were further analyzed for identification through molecular analysis using PCR and sequencing of the 16S region. This groundbreaking study illuminates the intricate world of microbiology, revealing the pivotal role of various bacterial strains in fostering plant health and safeguarding them from harmful pathogens. The bacteria under investigation include Pseudomonas fluorescens, Priestia megaterium, Bacillus subtilis, and a strain of Bacillus licheniformis. This study highlights the crucial role of certain bacteria in promoting plant health and protecting potatoes from pathogens, including Early Blight. These bacteria could lead to more sustainable farming practices and enhance our understanding of plant-microbe interactions.','Biological Control, Early Bligh, Molecular identification, 16S RNA, Vindhyachal forest','In present study discovered that the bacterial isolates from the rhizoplane of wild plants in a natural forest ecosystem belonged to four distinct genera: Pseudomonas, Bacillus, Priestia, and Rhizobium. These genera are renowned for their plant growth-promoting and biocontrol properties, including the production of siderophores, antibiotics, hydrolytic enzymes, bioactive compounds, and nitrogen fixation. Our research has shed light on the diversity and potential of these rhizoplane bacteria, which could have significant implications for plant health and productivity, as well as soil quality and sustainability.','-','Omshri Singh and Deepak Bharti (2023). Isolation and Molecular Identification of Bacterial Species from Vindhyachal forest Madhya Pradesh for Biological Control of Early Blight. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 15(4): 977-981.'),(8218,'164','Reaction of Local Cashew (Anacardium occidentale L.) Genotypes to Infestation by Tea Mosquito Bug, Helopeltis antonii Signoret (Hemiptera: Miridae)','Smitha M.S., Gavas Ragesh, Asna, A.C. and Jalaja S. Menon','Reaction-of-Local-Cashew-(Anacardium-occidentale-L.)-Genotypes-to-Infestation-by-Tea-Mosquito-Bug-Helopeltis-antonii-Signoret-(Hemiptera-Miridae)-Smitha-M.S.-89.pdf','',1,'Tea mosquito bug, Helopeltis antonii Signoret is an economically important pest of cashew, Anacardium occidentale L. in India and is a major constraint in cashew cultivation worldwide. The studies undertaken to manage this pest for the past 5-6 decades documented pesticide spray as the most successful and reliable solution. However, with increased use of pesticides, pest incidence also aggravated and the budget towards pest control increased drastically. Exploring host plant resistance will open up new avenues to manage this big menace and continuous research efforts are being carried out in this line at various centres across India. Fourteen promising accessions collected from major cashew-growing tracts of Kerala that were planted as grafts during 2003-04 in germplasm conservation block of Cashew Research Station, Madakkathara, Kerala, India were screened under field conditions to evaluate their response to tea mosquito bug, Helopeltis antonii. Scoring procedure on 0-4 scale, based on the number of necrotic lesions formed by tea mosquito bug while feeding, was followed to assess the susceptibility status. Screening was done consecutively for eight years initiating from 2009-10 when the grafts attained the age of six, and continued till 2016-17. Accessions were classified based on old method of classification as well as matrix method, giving weightage to damage on panicle. The study shows less susceptible nature of seven genotypes, viz., Kottarakkara-1, Kainur, Pattannur, Kunjithai, Kottarakkara-2, Aralam-2 and Odakkali with respect to infestation by tea mosquito bug.','Cashew genotypes, susceptibility status, tea mosquito bug, host plant resistance, breeding for resistance to biotic stress, Helopeltis antonii','Variable reaction is exhibited among cashew germplasm accessions towards the infestation by tea mosquito bug. The less susceptible types can be utilized as source of resistance or tolerance for developing crop cultivars, which readily produce the inducible response upon mild infestation, and can serve as one of the components of integrated pest management for sustainable crop production. ','-','Smitha M.S., Gavas Ragesh, Asna, A.C. and Jalaja S. Menon (2023). Reaction of Local Cashew (Anacardium occidentale L.) Genotypes to Infestation by Tea Mosquito Bug, Helopeltis antonii Signoret (Hemiptera: Miridae). Biological Forum – An International Journal, 15(8a): 549-554.'),(8219,'172','Physio-chemical Response of Rice (Oryza sativa L.) Genotypes to Complete Submergence during the Vegetative Stage under Coastal Agro-climatic Zone of Odisha','Pragyani Dash, Prabhasmita Shatpathy, Sanat Kumar Dwibedi and Madhusmita Bal ','Physio-chemical-Response-of-Rice-(Oryza-sativa-L.)-Genotypes-to-Complete-Submergence-during-the-Vegetative-Stage-under-Coastal-Agro-climatic-Zone-of-Odisha-P-SHATPATHY-24.pdf','',1,'Globally, submergence is regarded as one of the most dangerous abiotic stresses that affect the world’s rice (Oryza sativa L.) production system. A pot experiment was conducted to assess the effects of complete submergence that happens at the vegetative growth stage on three rice genotypes. The rice genotypes cv. Swarna, cv. Swarna-Sub1 and cv. Binadhan-11, significantly showing different characteristics, were undertaken with four levels of complete submergence treatments (no submergence i.e. control, 4 and 8 days of submergence and re-aeration for a day after 8 days of submergence) in factorial completely randomized design and that were replicated thrice. Seedlings at 30 DAS were subjected to submergence in a poly-pit to study the performance of rice genotypes under varying levels of complete submergence stress. Among the three test-genotypes of rice, cv. Swarna-Sub1 showed the highest survival rate due to the least shoot elongation, highest tiller number and leaf area under 4 and 8 days of complete submergence in comparison to the control. It accumulated more non-enzymatic anti-oxidants like carotenoid, proline over controlled condition. Higher carbohydrate, chlorophyll, and protein content were associated with submergence tolerant genotypes in comparison to the susceptible one (cv. Swarna). The antioxidant system of the plant to scavenge the ROS was almost at par in all three genotypes before submergence but increased significantly in tolerant ones under complete submergence. Elevated enzymatic antioxidant levels manifested the ability of cv. Swarna-Sub1 to overcome the oxidative stress through up-regulation of SOD, catalase, glutathione peroxidase activity under 8 days of complete submergence and subsequent re-aeration. The performance of cv. Swarna-Sub1 followed by cv. Binadhan-11 and cv. Swarna were in diminishing mode under all four submergence treatments.','Complete submergence, Rice (Oryza sativa L.), Binadhan-11, Vegetative Stage, Osmoregulants, Anti-oxidants','In the present investigation, it was found that submergence has a very harmful effect on growth, development and productivity of rice. The results revealed that Swarna-Sub1 maintained greater quantities of chlorophyll, carotenoid, protein content under submerged condition. Leaf and internodal elongation are the processes that occur in all rice species during development of foliage but, maintenance of growth under water and tolerance to complete submergence are traits indispensable for survival. This is accompanied with higher activity of SOD, CAT, GPX which facilitated scavenging mechanism against production of ROS that might be responsible for the tolerance to complete submergence. These antioxidant enzymes level during submergence and subsequent re-aeration might help it to encounter the oxidative damage efficiently. Hence, on the basis of all the observations recorded during the course of investigation, it was concluded that performance of cv. Binadhan-11 is at par with Swarna-Sub1, an already known submergence tolerant cultivar; hence it is likely to be tolerant to complete submergence but for a limited duration. ','-','Pragyani Dash, Prabhasmita Shatpathy, Sanat Kumar Dwibedi and Madhusmita Bal (2024). Physio-chemical Response of Rice (Oryza sativa L.) Genotypes to Complete Submergence during the Vegetative Stage under Coastal Agro-climatic Zone of Odisha. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 16(1): 92-101.'),(8220,'150','An assessment of the Physiochemical Factors, Heavy Metal Limitations and Microbial Diversity in the Water and Soil Sediments of Automobile Work Station in Monday market, Kanyakumari District, Tamil Nadu','Bhagyasree S.R. and Mary Helen P.A. ','An-assessment-of-the-Physiochemical-Factors-Heavy-Metal-Limitations-and-Microbial-Diversity-in-the-Water-and-Soil-Sediments-of-Automobile-Work-Station-in-Monday-market-Kanyakumari-Distr-Bhagyasree-S.R.-134.pdf','',1,'Water and soil property was assessed with the estimation of physiochemical constituents and heavy metal contaminations, both are responsible for serious environmental and health related issues. In this investigation, the analysis focuses on the estimation of physiochemical parameters and quantification of heavy metals (Cd and Pb) in water and soil samples from automobile service stations (S1N1, S2V2 and S3X3). The temperature of soil and water ranged from 28°C to 29 °C depending on depth of soil sampling and due to the continuous flow of vehicle washing water discharges, while pH was measured as 7.6 to 8.5 due to release of battery effluent and hydrocarbons. EC was recorded as 201 to 305 (µScm-1) in three stations of automobile soil and water effluents. One-way ANOVA showed the significance of 0.002164 < 0.05 P-value on temperature of soil samples and 0.081887 > 0.05 P-value explained the variability in water samples of three automobile workstations. The pH of soil sediments showed insignificance (0.075972 >0.05 P-value) and significant in water samples (0.01541 < 0.05 P-value). EC of soil and water demonstrated the significance at < 0.05 P-value. Heavy metals such as Cadmium and Lead was also estimated in soil and water samples of all three automobile workstations and expressed as ppm/ mL. Both the metals were an evident of insignificance at < 0.05 P-value by one-way ANOVA among the data sets of soil and water collected from three stations. The result of Cadmium was above the permissible limits set by WHO due to the automobile discharges and conclusively it is hereby recommended that a separate portion of land be set apart for automobile workshops which can be called mechanic village as it is in some cosmopolitan areas in this library. In addition to this, microbial diversity was also examined in study samples of soil and water from automobile work stations. Bacilli sps was a predominant in soil samples and major screened species in water samples were Bacilli and Diplobacilli sps which further employed for pure culture and characterized cultural prospective. ','Automobile soil and Water effluents, Physiochemicals characteristics, Heavy metal, microbial diversity and environmental pollution','According to the investigation, the water and soil sediments were purely contaminated with various hydrocarbon effluents and Heavy metals as well as the strong bacterial community was noted in the automobile effluent environment. The physiochemical analysis revealed the consistency of soil and water as well as bacterial diversity in the sites of automobile workshop. The bacterial community was further the isolated strains were scrutinized for heavy metals (Pb) resistance in minimal media. From the heavy metal plates, 7 isolates in soil samples and 12 isolates in water samples have been determined for the tolerance of heavy metals. The positive strains were afterward employed for characterizations and hydrocarbon degradation studies. ','-','Bhagyasree S.R. and Mary Helen P.A. (2023). An assessment of the Physiochemical Factors, Heavy Metal Limitations and Microbial Diversity in the Water and Soil Sediments of Automobile Work Station in Monday market, Kanyakumari District, Tamil Nadu. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 15(3): 863-866.'),(8221,'149','Biochemical and Histological Impact on Sub-lethal Concentration of Chlorpyrifos on Channa punctataus (Bloch) Fish','Feroz Ahmad Dar','Biochemical-and-Histological-Impact-on-Sub-lethal-Concentration-of-Chlorpyrifos-on-Channa-punctataus-(Bloch)-Fish-Feroz-A-202.pdf','',1,'Chlorpyrifos is an organophosphate pesticide, it is used world wide. It take pivotal part in agricultural field to kill the pests in order to produce the highly verities of crop. The exposure of Chlorpyrifos shows the magnificent changes and alteration in non target organisms like fish. In present work Channa punctatus was used as non target animal. The fishes were acclimatized near about 10 days, dead and infected fished were removed immediately. The sub lethal concentration, 24 hours, 96hours, 7 days, 15 days and 30 days respectively was studied during research work. The work showed, gradual decline of protein as well as histopathylogical change in gill.','Channa punctatus, Chlorpyrifos, Protein, Gills','The pesticide like organochlorine in which chlorpyrifos as a topic of interest was considered very harmful for both flora and fauna in an aquatic medium. The chlorpyrifos is mainly used in various orchids and agriculture purposes. As, is washed out through the rain and ultimately reaches to the nearby river or lakes. And ultimately affects directly or indirectly on the fauna organisms which in turn affect the human health by food chain. ','-','Feroz Ahmad Dar (2023). Biochemical and Histological Impact on Sub-lethal Concentration of Chlorpyrifos on Channa punctataus (Bloch) Fish. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 15(2): 1320-1323.'),(8222,'172','Effect of Cashew Nut and Jaggery on Textural properties of kajukatli','Shinde A.Y., Narwade. S.G., Londhe G.K. and Zine P.L. ','Effect-of-Cashew-Nut-and-Jaggery-on-Textural-properties-of-kajukatli-Shinde-AY-25.pdf','',1,'In the present study RSM software was used for optimization of the levels of different variables. Three levels of each of the two variables where attempted viz., Cashew nut 40%, 50% and 60% and jaggery 20%, 30% and 40% on the basis of preliminary trials. The software suggested 13 formulations of above two variables. This software suggests only one formulation based on analysis of sensory data of 13 formulations. Only one formulation comparing 54.93% cashew nut and 28.28% jaggery was suggested by the design expert software for further studies. The optimized formulation was used in comparison with the market kajukatli samples for sensory, physico-chemical, textural profile study and storage study. In that study, optimized sample was compared with market sample. The level of cashew nut and jaggery did affect the textural properties of kajukatli significantly. The mean value of hardness of optimized and market samples were 78.80, 182.27, 139.86, 179.32 and 142.83 N in O1, M1, M2, M3 and M4 respectively, cohesiveness value were 0.239, 0.170, 0.184, 0.204 and 0.152 in O1, M1, M2, M3 and M4 respectively, adhesiveness value were -0.739, -0.631, -0.503, -1.122 and -0.182 kg.sec in O1, M1, M2, M3 and M4 respectively, springiness value were 0.341, 0.428, 0.249, 0.415 and 0.215 mm in O1, M1, M2, M3 and M4 respectively, gumminess value were 1.922, 3.164, 2.622, 3.720 and 2.216 N.mm in O1, M1, M2, M3 and M4, respectively chewiness value were 0.654, 1.353, 0.652, 1.542 and 0.475 N.mm in O1, M1, M2, M3 and M4 respectively.','Kajukatli, cashew nut, jaggery, textural study, Optimized and market sample','1. The results of present investigation, it could be concluded that the kajukatli prepared using 54.93% cashew nut and 28.28% jaggery.\r\n2. The optimized kajukatli prepared by addition of cashew nut and jaggery was significantly better as compared to market sample.\r\n3. Textural analysis of product revealed that addition of cashew nut and jaggery in kajukatli progressive decreased hardness, gumminess, adhesiveness and increased cohesiveness over the market kajukatli sample.\r\n','-','Shinde A.Y., Narwade. S.G., Londhe G.K. and Zine P.L. (2024). Effect of Cashew Nut and Jaggery on Textural properties of kajukatli. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 16(1): 102-106.'),(8223,'174','New record of St. Andrew’s Oval Cross Spider Argiope aemula (Walckenaer, 1841) (Arachnida: Araneae: Araneidae) from Bijnor, Uttar Pradesh (India), a potential biological controller, with systematic account and other aspects','Akhlaq Husain and Sushain Babu','New record of St. Andrews Oval Cross Spider Argiope aemula (Walckenaer 1841) (Arachnida Araneae Araneidae) from Bijnor Uttar Pradesh (India) a potential biological controller with-Akhlaq Husain-1.pdf','',1,'Present communication deals with the new record of Argiope aemula, the St. Andrew’s Oval Cross Spider, from Bijnor district of Uttar Pradesh with its systematic account, distribution, habitat, webbing, food & feeding, mating & cannibalism, venom and predation threats. It, as subsisting on various insects including plant insect pests, is considered a potential biological controller, especially in rice crop fields.','New record, Argiope aemula, Bijnor, Uttar Pradesh','-','-','Akhlaq Husain and Sushain Babu (2023). New record of St. Andrew’s Oval Cross Spider Argiope aemula (Walckenaer, 1841) (Arachnida: Araneae: Araneidae) from Bijnor, Uttar Pradesh (India), a potential biological controller, with systematic account and other aspects. International Journal on Emerging Technologies, 14(2): 01–05.'),(8224,'172','Evaluation of Laparoscopic Sterilization Techniques in Dogs','Mohan Lal Sharma, S.K. Jhirwal, Mahendra Tanwar and Meena Puniya','Evaluation-of-Laparoscopic-Sterilization-Techniques-in-Dogs-Mohan-Lalsharma-26.pdf','',1,'Two techniques of laparoscopic spaying in female dogs were evaluated in two groups each containing 7 apparently healthy non-pregnant bitches. Group I (LapOVE) comprised of animals undergoing laparoscopic ovariectomy with three port technique and Group II (LapOVH) comprised of animals undergoing laparoscopic ovariohysterectomy with three port technique. All the animals gone through the same anaesthetic protocol comprised of induction with xylazine, ketamine and maintenance by isofluraneanaesthesia. The total surgical time in Group LapOVH was significantly (p<0.05) more than that of Group LapOVE. Intra-operative complications like mild thermal injury to spleen, bladder was observed in one case from both groups. Post-operative surgical wound infection including erythema and seroma were reported as post-operative complications whereas in long term follow up urine incontinence was observed in two cases irrespective of the procedure followed. LapOVE had advantages like shorter surgical times.In our study both LapOVH and LapOVE appeared to be safe and effective methods of surgical sterilization.','Laparoscopic, laparoscopic ovariohysterectomy, laparoscopic ovariectomy','Both the technique of laparoscopy are safe and effective methods of sterilization. We did not find any major reason for removal of uterine horn along with ovaries. Ovariectomy is a method that is equally effective and has no known drawbacks for the elective sterilization of female dogs. A smaller incision, improved visibility of the ovarian pedicle, and perhaps a lower risk of problems from uterine manipulation surgery are some potential benefits of laparoscopic ovariectomy. So laparoscopic ovariectomy is equally effective technique and can be method of choice for sterilisation. ','-','Mohan Lal Sharma, S.K. Jhirwal, Mahendra Tanwar and Meena Puniya (2024). Evaluation of Laparoscopic Sterilization Techniques in Dogs. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 16(1): 107-111.'),(8225,'170','A Comprehensive Study of Canine Demodicosis: Epidemiology Insight, Clinic-Hematological Analysis, and Therapeutic Strategies','Rohit Juneja, Punam, Arpita Sain and Kapil Kumar Godara ','A-Comprehensive-Study-of-Canine-Demodicosis-Epidemiology-Insight,-Clinic-Hematological-Analysis,-and-Therapeutic-Strategies-Rohit-Juneja-76.pdf','',1,'This study was designed to investigate the prevalence, clinical examination, and therapeutic management of canine demodicosis cases presented to the Vet Care Centre in Degana, Nagaur. A total of fifty dogs (thirty males and twenty females) with dermatitis were examined, and fifteen (31.42%) were found positive for demodicosis. The prevalence of demodicosis was higher in dogs aged 1-2 years (33.33%) compared to those aged 0-1 years (26.67%). Demodex infestation was significantly (p < 0.05) higher in males (80%) than in females (20%). Clinically, alopecia, skin corrugation, crusts, and pruritus were observed. Out of the twenty-two cases, fifteen dogs had generalized demodicosis. Haematological examination revealed a significant reduction in total erythrocyte count (5.57±0.14×106/mm3) and haemoglobin level (9.37±0.33g/dl) in affected dogs. Affected dogs also showed leucocytosis (12.33±0.74×103/mm3) accompanied by neutrophilia (74.73±2.30×103/mm3), eosinophilia (1.67±0.57×103/mm3), and lymphopenia (21.23±2.30×103/mm3). The dogs were treated with ivermectin, amitraz, antibiotics, benzyl peroxide shampoo, along with supportive therapy, and showed recovery after treatment. Fifteen cases responded positively, with negative skin scrapings for Demodex spp. three weeks post-treatment. The results indicated a high susceptibility to Demodex spp. infestation among companion animals in and around the Degana area.','Demodex, Prevalence, Haematological examination, Skin corrugation','The occurrence of generalized demodicosis comprised 30% of various dermatological disorders. Dogs aged 1 to 2 years, predominantly males, exhibited the highest prevalence. Mongrels had the highest occurrence, followed by German Shepherd, Labrador, Pomeranian, and Pug. Common clinical signs encompassed skin corrugation, alopecia, crusts, and pruritus. Stressing the importance of meticulous dermatological examination with baseline diagnostic testing is crucial. It is equally vital to comprehend the risks, benefits, and potential side effects associated with long-term treatment strategies.','-','Rohit Juneja, Punam, Arpita Sain and Kapil Kumar Godara (2023). A Comprehensive Study of Canine Demodicosis: Epidemiology Insight, Clinic-Hematological Analysis, and Therapeutic Strategies. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 15(12): 416-419.'),(8226,'172','Comparative Study on constraints of Kenguri Sheep Farming both in Intensive and Extensive Rearing Systems in Yadgir District of Karnataka','Kanakaraja M.G., Sagar M., Jettaboina Sai Kiran and Jeevan Kumar K.S.','Comparative-Study-on-constraints-of-Kenguri-Sheep-Farming-both-in-Intensive-and-Extensive-Rearing-Systems-in-Yadgir-District-of-Karnataka-Kanakaraja-MG-27.pdf','',1,'The Kenguri sheep farmers constraints were analysed by using closed ended schedule through focused group discussion in their respective study area that is Yadgir district, Karnataka state, by selecting total of 20 each intensive and extensive farms based on availability. The mean analysis of constraints in intensive system having shortage of technical manpower as the major constraint ranked first (1.94 ± 0.06) followed by exploitation by middlemen (1.86 ± 0.09), shortage of labours (1.74 ± 0.12) and the remaining constraints were ranked subsequently. Likewise, the mean analysis of constraints in extensive system having scarcity of feed and fodder as the major constraint ranked first (1.92 ± 0.08) followed by shortage of technical manpower (1.84 ± 0.07), unregulated market price (1.78 ± 0.13) and the remaining constraints were ranked subsequently. Compared to farmers engaged in intensive sheep rearing, those engaged in extensive sheep rearing faced significant constraints in terms of sheep production, as poverty is the major factor between two rearing systems.','Farmers Constraints, Kenguri sheep, Sheep rearing, Intensive rearing system, Extensive rearing system','The farmers involved in extensive sheep rearing, faced major sheep production constraints when compared to farmers involved in intensive sheep rearing. From the current experiment it was found that, the farmers involved in intensive sheep production were able to meet the production requirements of animals to a greater extent, when compared to extensive system. As because, the marginally poor farmers can’t afford labour and additional input expenses, they opt for extensive sheep rearing in open grazing lands and in case of marginally rich farmers, they choose intensive/stall feeding sheep farms as they can afford the extra expenses. So, the constraints faced by sheep farmers is a matter of poverty in this experiment. ','-','Kanakaraja M.G., Sagar M., Jettaboina Sai Kiran and Jeevan Kumar K.S. (2024). Comparative Study on constraints of Kenguri Sheep Farming both in Intensive and Extensive Rearing Systems in Yadgir District of Karnataka. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 16(1): 112-114.'),(8227,'172','Effect of Weed Management on Growth, Yield and Quality of Ajwain (Trachyspermum ammi L.)','S. Abhishek, Y.C. Vishwanath, V.B. Narayanapur, Kantesh G. and B.B. Patil ','Effect-of-Weed-Management-on-Growth-Yield-and-Quality-of-Ajwain-(Trachyspermum-ammi-L.)-S-Abhishek-28.pdf','',1,'A field experiment was conducted to investigate the effect of different weed management practices on growth, yield and quality of ajwain (Trachyspermum ammi L.). The study employed randomized block design with twelve treatments and three replications. Findings revealed that, after weed-free check, oxyfluorfen 0.080 kg/ha PE fb propaquizafop 0.050 kg/ha PoE at 30 DAS treatment exhibited the highest plant growth parameters such as plant height, fresh and dry weight of the plant. Yield parameters such as seed yield per hectare, number of umbels per plant, number of umbellates per umbel and number of seeds per umbellate. The seed yield was found significantly higher (781.67 kg ha-1) in weed-free check (T11), which was on par with oxyfluorfen 0.080 kg ha-1 PE fb propaquizafop 0.050 kg ha-1 PoE at 30 DAS (T6) (700.00 kg ha-1). ','Ajwain, weed management, growth, yield, quality, pre-emergence','Based on the current study\'s findings, it is possible to conclude that oxyfluorfen 0.08 kg ha-1 PE fb propaquizafop 0.050 kg ha-1 PoE at 30 DAS can provide good weed management resulting in increased plant growth and lucrative seed yield in ajwain during the rabi season.','-','S. Abhishek, Y.C. Vishwanath, V.B. Narayanapur, Kantesh G. and B.B. Patil (2024). Effect of Weed Management on Growth, Yield and Quality of Ajwain (Trachyspermum ammi L.). Biological Forum – An International Journal, 16(1): 115-119.'),(8228,'172','Efficacy of Extracts of Anthocephalus cadamba, Brassica juncea and Pithecellobium dulce against Fipronil-induced Histopathological Changes in Wistar Rats','Devendra Singh, Pratishtha Sharma, Shweta Anand, Rahul Swarnkar and Naresh Singh Kuntal','Efficacy-of-Extracts-of-Anthocephalus-cadamba,-Brassica-juncea-and-Pithecellobium-dulce-Against-Fipronil-induced-Histopathological-Changes-in-Wistar-Rats-Devendra-Singh-29.pdf','',1,'Fipronil is a new generation broad spectrum insecticide of phenylpyrazole group used for pest management in agriculture practices widely. The current study aimed to assess the ameliorating effects of Anthocephalus cadamba (Kadamba), Brassica juncea (Mustard), and Pithecellobium dulce (Jungle jalebi) extracts on histopathological changes induced by sub-acute Fipronil exposure in rats. Rats of either sex were randomly divided into five groups (6 rats/group). Group I served as a control in which corn oil (acting as a vehicle of Fipronil) was administered @10 ml/kg body weight daily for 28 days. Group II served as Fipronil treated group @10 mg/kg body weight, daily for 28 days. Fipronil along with extracts of Anthocephalus cadamba leaves, Brassica juncea seeds and Pithecellobium dulce fruits @300 mg/kg body weight, daily for 28 days were administered in groups III, IV, and V, respectively. Histopathological findings revealed that fipronil produced mild to moderate degenerative changes in the liver, kidney, brain, and spleen which were minimized by the co-treatment with Kadamba, Mustard, and Jungle jalebi in fipronil-intoxicated rats. Extracts of all three plants were found effective to ameliorate the histopathological alterations of major organs affected by sub-acute toxicity induced by fipronil in rats. Among these, extract of Pithecellobium dulce fruits exhibits the highest ameliorative potential compared to Anthocephalus cadamba leaves, Brassica juncea seeds extracts.','Kadamba, Mustard, Jungle jalebi, fipronil','The histopathological findings indicated that fipronil induced mild to moderate degenerative changes in the liver, kidney, brain, and spleen, which were subsequently reversed by the co-treatment with the extracts of Kadamba, Mustard, and Jungle Jalebi. Observations revealed that the group treated with Pithecellobium dulce (Jungle Jalebi) exhibited a superior ameliorative effect compared to the other treatment groups.','-','Devendra Singh, Pratishtha Sharma, Shweta Anand, Rahul Swarnkar and Naresh Singh Kuntal (2024). Efficacy of Extracts of Anthocephalus cadamba, Brassica juncea and Pithecellobium dulce Against Fipronil-induced Histopathological Changes in Wistar Rats. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 16(1): 120-124.'),(8229,'172','Standardization of Drying Temperature and Time for Surimi Powder Fortified Pasta','Asik Ikbal, S. Chowdhury, S. Nath, K.C. Dora, P. Murmu, S. Roy and A. Bhattacharya','Standardization-of-Drying-Temperature-and-Time-for-Surimi-Powder-Fortified-Pasta-Asik-Ikbal-30.pdf','',1,'Pasta, prepared from wheat or semolina flour, has gained worldwide popularity due to its ease of preparation, affordability and nutritional benefits. However, it often lacks specific amino acids, namely lysine and methionine, as these components are limited in the cereal proteins present in wheat. Therefore, enhancing the nutritional profile of pasta may necessitate the inclusion of proteins from alternative sources that are abundant in essential amino acids. Fish, known for its richness in lysine, methionine, omega-3 fatty acids, as well as vitamins such as A, D, B6, and B12, along with minerals like iron, zinc, iodine, selenium, potassium and sodium, emerges as a promising option. Dried surimi powders, derived from fish, can be conveniently utilized to fortify the protein content of carbohydrate-rich pasta made from cereals. As the conventional method for preparing and storing fish protein-enriched pasta faces limitations, the aim of this study was to establish a standardized drying temperature and duration for 10% Tilapia surimi powder fortified pasta. The nutritionally enriched, low- carb, low calorie raw pasta was dried at different temperatures (60°C, 70°C and 80°C) to standardize the time and temperature for drying before storage in ambient temperature. Moisture content (11.54±0.47%) was achieved after 64 minutes of drying at 70°C followed by ‘best’ overall acceptability (4.10±0.42) by 30 expert sensory panellist members. Therefore, based on highest protein content (21.68±0.38%) and significantly (p<0.05) lowest carbohydrate content (60.53±0.45%) followed by sensory evaluation, 10% Tilapia surimi powder fortified pasta dried at 70°C for 64 minutes was chosen to be the optimum drying temperature and time. ','Tilapia surimi powder, value- added fishery product, cereal-based pasta','To standardize the drying temperature with time of 10% Tilapia surimi powder fortified pasta, from the above quality analysis it is evident that after 64 minutes of drying at 70°C, the residual moisture content was 11.54±0.47% with the highest protein content (21.68±0.38%) and significantly (p<0.05) lowest value of carbohydrate content followed by mean overall acceptability score of 4.10±0.42 by expert sensory panellist members. This pasta was designated as best after sensory evaluation. Thus, it can be inferred that the optimum drying temperature for drying of 10% Tilapia surimi powder fortified pasta is 70°C for a period of 64 minutes. ','-','Asik Ikbal, S. Chowdhury, S. Nath, K.C. Dora, P. Murmu, S. Roy and A. Bhattacharya (2024). Standardization of Drying Temperature and Time for Surimi Powder Fortified Pasta. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 16(1): 125-131.'),(8230,'171','Impact of integrated Nutrient Management on Yield and Quality of Okra (Abelmoschus esculentus Moench.)','Vijay Kumar Karsh, Prakash Ghodeshwar, Avadhesh Singh Choudhary and Navneet Satankar','Impact-of-integrated-Nutrient-Management-on-Yield-and-Quality-of-Okra-(Abelmoschus-esculentus-Moench.)-Vijay-Kumar-Karsh-8.pdf','',1,'The present experiment was carried out with aim to find out the optimum combination of organic and inorganic fertilizers in relation to growth of Okra and to find out the best source of organic manure in relation to yield of okra or Lady finger at Horticultural Research Farm, Department of Horticulture, Sardar Patel University Balaghat (M.P.) during Kharif season 2021. The details of treatment combination used are T1(Control)); T2(100% RDF* (Recommended Dose of Fertilizer)); T3(75% RDF + 25% Azospirillum); T4(50% RDF + 50% FYM); T5(50% RDF + 50% Vermicompost); T6(50% RDF + 25% Azospirillum + 25% FYM); T7(50% RDF + 25% Azospirillum + 25% Vermicompost) and T8(50% RDF + 25% FYM + 25% Vermicompost). The experiment was laid in Randomized block design with 8 treatments and 3 replications with different treatment combination of nutrients mentioned. The overall results obtained from this present investigation clearly revealed that the application of T7((50% RDF + 25% Azosprillum +25% vermicompost) showed the better performance for vegetative growth (plant height, number of branch per plant, number of leaves per plant ,leaf area, days to 50% flowering), yield attributes (number of fruit per plant, fruit yield per plant (kg), fruit yield per plot (kg), Single pod weight (g), of okra except fruit length and fruit diameter) were would be useful to enhance the productivity of okra. The key challenge of study is high cost of organic nutrient sources and microbial inoculants, maintaining optimum dosage recommendations, and scaling integrated nutrient management for widespread adoption of okra.','RDF, Lady finger, INM, FYM, Fruit Yield, Azospirillum','The overall results obtained from this present investigation clearly revealed that the application of T7 ((50% RDF + 25% Azosprillum + 25% vermicompost) showed the better performance for vegetative growth (plant height, number of branch per plant, number of leaves per plant ,leaf area, days to 50% flowering), yield attributes [number of fruit per plant, fruit yield per plant (kg), fruit yield per plot (kg), single pod weight (g), of okra except fruit length and fruit diameter and would be useful to enhance the productivity of okra.','-','-'),(8231,'171','Socio-economic Status of CROPSAP Scheme of Cotton Growers','P.D. Undirwade, R.V. Chavan and Tukaram B. Munde','Socio-economic-Status-of-CROPSAP-Scheme-of-Cotton-Growers-Prachi-D-Undirwade-9.pdf','',1,'In the present study the socio-economic characteristics of beneficiary and non-beneficiary cotton growers have been assessed. It may prove beneficial to know socio-economic characteristics of the CROPSAP scheme of cotton cultivators as well as their knowledge about CROPSAP scheme of cotton. The increasing yield of fibre is a big challenge around the globe especially for the researchers. This was based mainly on primary data which was collected through personal interview method with the help of pre-tested schedules. An investigation was conducted in the Jalna district of Maharashtra purposively on the basis of 2nd highest area under cotton crop. Multistage sampling technique was used for selection of district, tehsils and villages. Total sample size was 160 where 80 was beneficiary and 80 non-beneficiary cotton growers. Data were analyzed with the help of Descriptive statistics, was used to calculate the socioeconomic level of cotton growers using mean, frequency, and percentage. Beneficiary cotton growers more educated than non-beneficiary cotton growers. Both beneficiary and non-beneficiary cotton growers was middle age group (41.25 per cent) and (43.75 per cent) respectively. Both the growers has agriculture was the main occupation. The benefit of CROPSAP scheme for farmer is reduces the extra application of insecticides and pesticides hence saving the cost and increasing the status of farmers. The benefit of this scheme is that the problems are sorted according to their severity from the respondents\' perspective.','Beneficiary, Non-beneficiary, Jalna, CROPSAP','The research identified the socioeconomic characteristics of the beneficiary and non-beneficiary cotton growers. Having analyzed the findings based on the information collected, it is important, to most of beneficiary and non-beneficiary cotton growers was middle age group (41.25 per cent) and (43.75 per cent) respectively. Most of the beneficiary cotton growers educated upto high school level (33.75 per cent) and non-beneficiary cotton growers Illiterate. Hence value addition more in beneficiary cotton growers than non-beneficiary cotton growers and implement the CROPSAP scheme more quickly. Five to seven members (51.25) are present in beneficiary cotton growers and eight and above members (43.75 per cent) are present in non-beneficiary cotton growers. The main occupation of beneficiary and non-beneficiary cotton growers was agriculture. Gross cropped area of beneficiary cotton growers was 2.27 ha and non-beneficiary cotton growers was 2.82 ha cropping intencity of beneficiary cotton growers was (134.41) and non-beneficiary cotton growers was (154.90).','-','-'),(8232,'172','In vitro Bioefficacy of Bioagents Against Rhizoctonia solani f. sp. sasakii, causing Maize Banded Leaf and Sheath Blight Disease','S.N. Banne and A.P. Suryawanshi ','In-vitro-Bioefficacy-of-Bioagents-Against-Rhizoctonia-solani-f.-sp.-sasakii-causing-Maize-Banded-Leaf-and-Sheath-Blight-Disease-SN-Banne-109.pdf','',4,'Biotic and abiotic stresses are major obstacles in the cultivation and production of maize. Among biotic stresses excluding bacterial and viral diseases, many fungal diseases are of economic importance. Banded leaf and sheath blight (BLSB) appears to be most important and devastating disease of maize. Banded leaf and sheath blight (BLSB) caused by Rhizoctonia solani f. sp. sasakii, being soil borne is the major threat to successful cultivation and growing of maize. Therefore, various potential biocontrol agents were evaluated in vitro against the pathogen R. solani f. sp. sasakii, at the Department of Plant Pathology, VNMKV, Parbhani. Though all test bioagents were found antagonistic to the test pathogen, but most efficient were, Trichoderma asperellum, which resulted with significant highest mycelial growth inhibition (87.42 %), of the test pathogen, followed by T. harzianum (86.17 %), T. virens (66.36 %) and Aspergillus niger (65.16 %).','Bioagents, Rhizoctonia solani, Banded leaf and sheath blight, In vitro, Inhibition','Biocontrol agents such as Trichoderma asperellum, T. harzianum, T. virens and A. niger proved to be potential antagonist could be extensively employed to manage several plant diseases/pathogens, including R. solani f. sp. sasakii.','-','S.N. Banne and A.P. Suryawanshi (2023). In vitro Bioefficacy of Bioagents Against Rhizoctonia solani f. sp. sasakii, causing Maize Banded Leaf and Sheath Blight Disease. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 15(11): 612-615.'),(8233,'172','Hospital Based Prevalence of Theileria annulata in Cattle-calves in Bikaner District of Rajasthan','Pavan Goyal','Hospital-Based-Prevalence-of-Theileria-annulata-in-Cattle-calves-in-Bikaner-District-of-Rajasthan-Pavan-Goyal-31.pdf','',1,'Cattle-calves were screened for Theileria annulata infection at the Teaching Veterinary Clinical Complex, College of Veterinary and Animal Science, Bikaner, regardless of their age, sex, or breed. Giemsa\'s stain was used to create blood smears and lymph node aspirate smears from the ear veins and enlarged superficial lymph nodes of suspected cow calves, respectively, in order to detect piroplasms and schizonts under oil immersion. Seven instances\' blood smear analysis showed the presence of piroplasms. The structure of the erythrocytes showed anisocytosis and poikilocytosis, and the infected erythrocytes appeared as echinocytes. Examination of lymph node aspirate smears showed that only three instances had schizonts in the lymphocytes, and only one of the three cases had merozoites escaping from the infected cell. Accordingly, the lymph node aspirate smear examination and Giemsa-stained blood smear analyses revealed that the hospital-based prevalence of Theileria annulata infection in cattle-calves in Bikaner was 3.2% and 7.5%, respectively.','Piroplasms, cattle-calves, Theileria annulata, schizonts, lymph node','The prevalence of Theileria annulata in cattle-calves was determined by the examination of Giemsa-stained blood smears and lymph node aspirate smears and it was found 7.5% and 3.2%, respectively. The analysis of lymph node aspirate smears and thin blood stained with Giemsa is required for the conventional diagnosis of tropical theileriosis. This technique is only effective during the acute phase of the illness, when the parasitemia is high enough to be seen under a microscope. The degree of parasitemia is typically below the threshold for microscopical detection during the chronic and carrier stages.','-','Pavan Goyal (2024). Hospital Based Prevalence of Theileria annulata in Cattle-calves in Bikaner District of Rajasthan. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 16(1): 132-135.'),(8234,'172','Effect of Biofertilizers and Organic Manures on Growth, Yield and Quality of Tomato (Solanum lycopersicum L.)','Laxmi Bai, Manoj Kumar Bundela, Pushplata Singh, Meena D.C., Maurya R.P. and Sharma A. ','Effect-of-Biofertilizers-and-Organic-Manures-on-Growth,-Yield-and-Quality-of-Tomato-(Solanum-lycopersicum-L.)-MANOJ-KUMAR-BUNDELA-32.pdf','',1,'The current inquiry was conducted at Agricultural Research Farm, Department of Horticulture, Suresh Gyan Vihar University, Jagatpura, Jaipur (Rajasthan) to study the effect of bio-fertilizers and organic manures on yield and quality of Tomato (Solanum lycopersicon L.) cv. ‘Abhilash’ during Rabi season of the year 2022-2023. A Block Design that was Randomized was used in the trial, and twelve treatment combinations were possible viz., Control (T1) , 100% RDF (T2), 100 % Vermicompost (T3), 25% Vermicompost + 75% RDF + PSB (T4), 50% RDF + 50% Vermicompost + PSB (T5) , 75% RDF + 25% Vermicompost + Azospirillium (T6), 50% RDF + 50% Vermicompost + Azospirillium (T7), 100% FYM (T8), 25% FYM + 75% RDF + PSB (T9), 50% RDF+ 50% FYM + PSB (T10), 25% FYM + 75% RDF + Azospirillium (T11), 50% FYM + 50% RDF + Azospirillium (T12) and Three duplicates of each treatment were conducted. Analysis of the data showed that, under the specific agroclimatic conditions of the area, the effects of biofertilizers and other organic manures on key metrics such as tomato quality, yield, and vegetative development were highly influenced. In terms of several vegetative growth, yield, and quality indices, the treatment (T5) had a substantial impact and the highest quantity of branches that a plant have (14.93 branches), the highest number of cluster that a plant have (8.66), (8.52) flowers per cluster, quantity of fruits on each plant (45.99), (5.42 cm) length of the fruit, (7.76 mm) fruit diameter, fruit weight (86.47), the notably increased fruit production per plant (3.84 kg per plant), (61.49 kg per plot) yield per plot and (142.35 q per ha) yield per hectare was noted in (T5). Whereas, the lowest (40.49 q per ha) yield were noted in control (T0). Results further succeeded by the highest (4.23) benefit: cost ratio was noted in 50% Vermicompost + 50% RDF + Phosphorous solublizing bacteria (PSB) (T8). Whereas, the lowest benefit: cost ratio (1.02) was noted under control. Treatment T7 (50% RDF + 50% Vermicompost + Azospirillium) have heighest plant height (102.27 cm) succeeded by Treatment T5 (97.5 cm).','RDF, Farmyard manure, Vermicompost, Azospirillium, PSB, yield','Tomato germination, growth, and development were all significantly improved by the application of plant growth regulators, according to the current study. The results of the tests indicated that T5 produced the highest quality and quantity of fruit (142.35 q/ha) among the treatments examined, and treatment T7 produced the highest plant growth (97.80 cm) among the treatments studied. With a benefit cost ratio of 4.23, T5 also had the highest ratio. In T5, Phosphorus solubilizing bacteria (PSB) were combined with 50% Vermicompost (VC) and 50% RDF.','-','Laxmi Bai, Manoj Kumar Bundela, Pushplata Singh, Meena D.C., Maurya R.P. and Sharma A. (2024). Effect of Biofertilizers and Organic Manures on Growth, Yield and Quality of Tomato (Solanum lycopersicum L.). Biological Forum – An International Journal, 16(1): 136-140.'),(8235,'172','Evaluation of Gerbera (Gerbera jamesonii) Cultivars under Naturally Ventilated Polyhouse','Shreekanth, R.T. Patil, B. C. Patil, Naveen M. Puttaswamy4, A.M. Nadaf and Sachinkumar T. Nandhimath \r\n','Evaluation-of-Gerbera-(Gerbera-jamesonii)-Cultivars-under-Naturally-Ventilated-Polyhouse-Shreekanth-33.pdf','',4,'Among the flowers, gerbera (Gerbera jamesonii B.) is remarkable for the extra ordinary geometrical regularity of form. The demand for gerbera as both cut flower and an ornamental potted plant is steadily growing in the global market. This is primarily due to its elegant appearance, resilience, capacity to endure transportation and extended shelf life. An experiment was carried out to evaluate ten gerbera cultivars for growth, yield and quality parameters during the year 2022-2023 at Kittur Rani Channamma College of Horticulture, Arabhavi, University of Horticultural Sciences, Bagalkot. It was recorded that plant height was maximum in cv. Stanza (40.99 cm). Maximum values for leaf length (37.94 cm), leaf breadth (11.85 cm) and leaf area (7944.56 cm2) were recorded in cv. Balance. Higher number of leaves (33.16) and higher sucker production per plant (4.40) were recorded in cv. Intense. The same cv. Intense took less time for first flower bud initiation (41.68days) and flower opening (15.21 days). Maximum flower diameter was observed in cv. Balance (10.52 cm) and stalk length was found in cv. Forbes (57.10 cm). While stalk girth (6.52 mm), vase life (9.28 days), maximum number of flowers per plant (11.42) and meter square (102.81) were found more in cv. Intense. The overall study revealed that cultivar Intense exerted best performance on various growth and flower characters along with the cultivars Samara, Ankur and Balance.','Cultivars, gerbera, protected cultivation, quality parameters, vase life, yield','Based on the current findings, it is evident that among the ten gerbera cultivars evaluated under protected cultivation, the cultivar Intense emerged as superior to all others. Cultivar Intense exhibited several notable attributes, including the maximum number of leaves, the highest number of suckers produced per plant, the shortest duration to first flower bud emergence, the quickest flower opening, the maximum stalk girth, an extended vase life, the highest number of flowers produced per plant and per square meter. Meanwhile, the cultivar Balance excelled in terms of leaf length, leaf breadth, leaf area and plant spread, as well as producing a significant number of flowers per plant. These findings highlight the varying strengths and qualities of these gerbera cultivars contributing to the overall understanding of their performance under protected cultivation. Based on the findings of the present study, it can be concluded that the gerbera cultivars Intense, Ankur, Balance and Samara exhibit favourable performance under naturally ventilated polyhouse conditions. Furthermore, these four cultivars are recommended for adoption in commercial cultivation. Growers often opt for four to five cultivars and these cultivars are well suited for such practices as they offer a range of different colours that consumers prefer for floral arrangements.','-','Shreekanth, R.T. Patil, B. C. Patil, Naveen M. Puttaswamy4, A.M. Nadaf and Sachinkumar T. Nandhimath (2024). Evaluation of Gerbera (Gerbera jamesonii) Cultivars under Naturally Ventilated Polyhouse. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 16(1): 141-145.'),(8236,'172','Evaluation of Gerbera (Gerbera jamesonii) Cultivars under Naturally Ventilated Polyhouse','Shreekanth, R.T. Patil, B. C. Patil, Naveen M. Puttaswamy, A.M. Nadaf and Sachinkumar T. Nandhimath','Evaluation-of-Gerbera-(Gerbera--jamesonii)-Cultivars-under-Naturally-Ventilated-Polyhouse-Shreekanth-33.pdf','',1,'Among the flowers, gerbera (Gerbera jamesonii B.) is remarkable for the extra ordinary geometrical regularity of form. The demand for gerbera as both cut flower and an ornamental potted plant is steadily growing in the global market. This is primarily due to its elegant appearance, resilience, capacity to endure transportation and extended shelf life. An experiment was carried out to evaluate ten gerbera cultivars for growth, yield and quality parameters during the year 2022-2023 at Kittur Rani Channamma College of Horticulture, Arabhavi, University of Horticultural Sciences, Bagalkot. It was recorded that plant height was maximum in cv. Stanza (40.99 cm). Maximum values for leaf length (37.94 cm), leaf breadth (11.85 cm) and leaf area (7944.56 cm2) were recorded in cv. Balance. Higher number of leaves (33.16) and higher sucker production per plant (4.40) were recorded in cv. Intense. The same cv. Intense took less time for first flower bud initiation (41.68days) and flower opening (15.21 days). Maximum flower diameter was observed in cv. Balance (10.52 cm) and stalk length was found in cv. Forbes (57.10 cm). While stalk girth (6.52 mm), vase life (9.28 days), maximum number of flowers per plant (11.42) and meter square (102.81) were found more in cv. Intense. The overall study revealed that cultivar Intense exerted best performance on various growth and flower characters along with the cultivars Samara, Ankur and Balance.','Cultivars, gerbera, protected cultivation, quality parameters, vase life, yield','Based on the current findings, it is evident that among the ten gerbera cultivars evaluated under protected cultivation, the cultivar Intense emerged as superior to all others. Cultivar Intense exhibited several notable attributes, including the maximum number of leaves, the highest number of suckers produced per plant, the shortest duration to first flower bud emergence, the quickest flower opening, the maximum stalk girth, an extended vase life, the highest number of flowers produced per plant and per square meter. Meanwhile, the cultivar Balance excelled in terms of leaf length, leaf breadth, leaf area and plant spread, as well as producing a significant number of flowers per plant. These findings highlight the varying strengths and qualities of these gerbera cultivars contributing to the overall understanding of their performance under protected cultivation. Based on the findings of the present study, it can be concluded that the gerbera cultivars Intense, Ankur, Balance and Samara exhibit favourable performance under naturally ventilated polyhouse conditions. Furthermore, these four cultivars are recommended for adoption in commercial cultivation. Growers often opt for four to five cultivars and these cultivars are well suited for such practices as they offer a range of different colours that consumers prefer for floral arrangements.','-','Shreekanth, R.T. Patil, B. C. Patil, Naveen M. Puttaswamy4, A.M. Nadaf and Sachinkumar T. Nandhimath (2024). Evaluation of Gerbera (Gerbera jamesonii) Cultivars under Naturally Ventilated Polyhouse. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 16(1): 141-145.'),(8237,'169','In vitro Bioefficacy of Bioagents against Rhizoctonia solani f. sp. sasakii, causing Maize Banded Leaf and Sheath Blight Disease','S.N. Banne and A.P. Suryawanshi ','In-vitro-Bioefficacy-of-Bioagents-Against-Rhizoctonia-solani-f.-sp.-sasakii-causing-Maize-Banded-Leaf-and-Sheath-Blight-Disease-SN-Banne-109.pdf','',1,'Biotic and abiotic stresses are major obstacles in the cultivation and production of maize. Among biotic stresses excluding bacterial and viral diseases, many fungal diseases are of economic importance. Banded leaf and sheath blight (BLSB) appears to be most important and devastating disease of maize. Banded leaf and sheath blight (BLSB) caused by Rhizoctonia solani f. sp. sasakii, being soil borne is the major threat to successful cultivation and growing of maize. Therefore, various potential biocontrol agents were evaluated in vitro against the pathogen R. solani f. sp. sasakii, at the Department of Plant Pathology, VNMKV, Parbhani. Though all test bioagents were found antagonistic to the test pathogen, but most efficient were, Trichoderma asperellum, which resulted with significant highest mycelial growth inhibition (87.42 %), of the test pathogen, followed by T. harzianum (86.17 %), T. virens (66.36 %) and Aspergillus niger (65.16 %).','Bioagents, Rhizoctonia solani, Banded leaf and sheath blight, In vitro, Inhibition','Biocontrol agents such as Trichoderma asperellum, T. harzianum, T. virens and A. niger proved to be potential antagonist could be extensively employed to manage several plant diseases/pathogens, including R. solani f. sp. sasakii.','-','S.N. Banne and A.P. Suryawanshi (2023). In vitro Bioefficacy of Bioagents Against Rhizoctonia solani f. sp. sasakii, causing Maize Banded Leaf and Sheath Blight Disease. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 15(11): 612-615.'),(8238,'172','Adoption of Rural Women Regarding Pratapdhan Poultry Production Technology Promoted by KVK Bhilwara','Laxmi Nagar, Prakash Pawar and Swati Inani ','Adoption-of-Rural-Women-Regarding-Pratapdhan-Poultry-Production-Technology-Promoted-by-KVK-Bhilwara-Swati-Inani-34.pdf','',1,'This study was conducted in the Bhilwara district of Rajasthan, focusing on the adoption of Pratapdhan Poultry Production Technology among rural women. Bhilwara was chosen purposely for its familiarity with the researcher and the widespread promotion of this technology through KVK Bhilwara. The research involved a total sample of 100 respondents from five selected villages, with 20 rural women randomly chosen from each village. Data collection was accomplished through personal interviews. The data analysis employed various methods, including frequency, percentage, mean per cent score, and adoption index. The overall adoption of Pratapdhan poultry production technology among the respondents was identified as medium. The categorization of respondents revealed that the majority (93%) fell into the medium level of adoption, while a smaller percentage (7%) belonged to the low adoption category. Surprisingly, none of the respondents fell into the high adoption category. Breaking down the adoption of Pratapdhan poultry production technology into its components, the findings indicated that, on average, the respondents demonstrated high adoption in two components: health care management (92.00% adoption index) and housing management (82.65% adoption index). However, in the breeding and rearing of chicks and feeding management component, adoption was comparatively low, with adoption indices of 58.18% and 41.37%, respectively.','Pratapdhan, Poultry, Production, Adoption, rural women','The study found that, on the whole, the adoption of Pratapdhan poultry production technology among the respondents can be characterized as moderate. When categorizing the respondents into different adoption groups, the majority (93%) demonstrated a medium level of adoption, while a smaller percentage (7%) fell into the low adoption category. Notably, none of the respondents reached the high adoption category. Delving into the specific components of Pratapdhan poultry production technology, it was observed that, on average, respondents displayed a high degree of adoption in two out of the four components: health care management (with an adoption index of 92.00%) and housing management (with an adoption index of 82.65%). However, in the components related to breeding and rearing of chicks and feeding management, the adoption rates were comparatively low, with adoption indices of 58.18% and 41.37%, respectively.\r\nIn the future, it is essential to explore the factors that contribute to the moderate adoption of Pratapdhan poultry production technology. This can involve conducting further research to understand the reasons behind the limited adoption in specific components, such as breeding and rearing of chicks and feeding management. Additionally, interventions and strategies can be developed to encourage higher adoption rates, particularly in these lower-performing components. Furthermore, it would be valuable to assess the long-term impact of adopting Pratapdhan poultry production technology on the livelihoods and well-being of rural women in the Bhilwara district. \r\nThis could include studying changes in income, food security, and overall living conditions resulting from technology adoption. Additionally, future research could focus on the experiences and challenges faced by those in the low adoption category to provide insights into how to effectively support and promote technology adoption among this group. This information can inform tailored interventions and strategies to enhance the adoption of Pratapdhan poultry production technology in various regions.\r\n','-','Laxmi Nagar, Prakash Pawar and Swati Inani (2024). Adoption of Rural Women Regarding Pratapdhan Poultry Production Technology Promoted by KVK Bhilwara. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 16(1): 146-150.'),(8239,'172','Introgression of Foliar Disease Resistance into Cultivated species by Backcross Breeding from Synthetic Amphidiploids in Groundnut (Arachis hypogaea L.)','Varsha Kumari, M.V.C. Gowda, S.B. Yeri, Ashok Kumar Meena, Priyanka Kumawat, S.S. Rajput, Bhuri Singh, B.L. Kumhar, Rajdeep Mundiyara and R.K. Meena ','Introgression-of-Foliar-Disease-Resistance-into-Cultivated-species-by-Backcross-Breeding-from-Synthetic-Amphidiploids-in-Groundnut-(Arachis-hypogaea-L.)-Varsha-Kumari-35.pdf','',1,'In order to incorporate disease resistance from wild species into cultivated groundnut, the cultivated variety ICGS 76 was crossed with a synthetic amphidiploid, ISATGR 278-18. This resulted in the development of a BC2F4 introgression line population, ICGS 76 × ISATGR 278-18, which segregated for late leaf spot and rust, two significant foliar fungal diseases that cause significant yield losses to the crop. With the exception of the number of major branches, phenotypic data demonstrated strong heritability for resistance to both diseases, agronomic, and productivetyraits, as well as significant variance for genotype, environment, and genotype × environment interaction.','Groundnut, Synthetic amphidiploids, introgression line(ILs), Rust, Late Leaf Spot (LLS).','The introgression of foliar disease resistance through crossing cultivated and synthetic amphidiploids in groundnut shows promise for enhancing crop resilience. This approach combines the desirable traits of both parental lines, potentially resulting in improved groundnut varieties with heightened resistance to foliar diseases, contributing to sustainable agriculture and increased yields. Further research and field trials are crucial to validate and optimize the outcomes of this introgression strategy.','-','Varsha Kumari, M.V.C. Gowda, S.B. Yeri, Ashok Kumar Meena, Priyanka Kumawat, S.S. Rajput, Bhuri Singh, B.L. Kumhar, Rajdeep Mundiyara and R.K. Meena (2024). Introgression of Foliar Disease Resistance into Cultivated species by Backcross Breeding from Synthetic Amphidiploids in Groundnut (Arachis hypogaea L.). Biological Forum – An International Journal, 16(1): 151-155.'),(8240,'148','Impact of NPK on Quality and Yield of Floral Buds of Jasmine (Jasminum sambac L. Aiton) during Summer Season','Subrat Kumar Senapati, Sashikala Beura, Ashish Kumar Gouda, Kaberi Maharana, Geeta Pandey, Siddharth Kumar Palai and Sunil Kumar Dash','Impact-of-NPK-on-Quality-and-Yield-of-Floral-Buds-of-Jasmine-(Jasminum-sambac-L.-Aiton)-during-Summer-Season-Sashikala-Beura-122.pdf','',1,'The current study entitled “Impact of NPK on Quality and Yield of Floral Buds of Jasmine (Jasminum sambac L. Aiton) during Summer Season” was carried out at Educational Garden of Department of Floriculture and Landscaping, College of Agriculture, O.U.A.T., Bhubaneswar during last week of December 2021 to November 2022. Total of nineteen treatments with various combinations of N, P and K fertilizers (Kg/ha) were taken in this experiment which was fitted to RBD and replicated thrice. Out of all the treatments, treatment T13 ,which contains a fertilizer combination of N=100 kg/ha, P=120 kg/ha, and K=120 kg/ha was determined to be the most fruitful in resulting luxuriant floral bud characteristics i.e. minimum days taken for flower bud appearance (62.25 days), minimum days taken from first bud appearance to full flower bud development (10.83 days), highest bud diameter( 1.02 cm), bud length ( 3.47 cm), weight of fifty buds( 20.18 g), number of buds(102.75), yield of flower buds (55.28 q/ha). Therefore, it is advised that the jasmine crop in Odisha condition be fertilized with N=100 kg/ha, P=120 kg/ha, and K=120 kg/ha in order to achieve optimal development, ideal flowering buds, and yield qualities. ','NPK levels, Floral bud, Jasmine, diameter, Yield','Based on the results of the experiment, treatment T13 (N=100Kg/ha, P=120Kg/ha, K=120Kg/ha) applied twice in split doses as 50 Kg N/ha, 60Kg K/ha, 100 Kg P/ha in basal dose and rest 50 Kg N/ha, 60Kg K/ha in top dressing was proved to be more efficient in boosting various flowering bud attributes such as flower bud diameter, bud length, number of buds per bush, weight of fifty buds and yield of buds per hectare as well as early appearance of first flower bud and minimum days taken from flower bud appearance to full development of flower buds. Hence, it has been recommended that fertilizer dose of N=100Kg/ha, P=120Kg/ha, K=120Kg/ha in the form of urea, SSP and MOP produced luxuriant flower bud yield in Jasmine under Odisha condition and this recommendation will solve the long awaiting problems of fertilizer application in jasmine for high flower bud production in Odisha.','-','Subrat Kumar Senapati, Sashikala Beura, Ashish Kumar Gouda, Kaberi Maharana, Geeta Pandey, Siddharth Kumar Palai and Sunil Kumar Dash (2023). Impact of NPK on Quality and Yield of Floral Buds of Jasmine (Jasminum sambac L. Aiton) during Summer Season. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 15(1): 743-746.'),(8241,'172','Studies on Sugarcane Shoot Borers in South Gujarat','S.M. Chavan, C.U. Shinde and C.D. Pandya','Studies-on-Sugarcane-Shoot-Borers-in-South-Gujarat-Dr-SM-Chavan-36.pdf','',1,'Studies on sugarcane shoot borers were carried out at farmers fields in Tapi district of South Gujarat during 2017-18, 2018-19 and 2019-20. Results revealed that the sugarcane was infested by complex of two shoot borer species viz., Sesamia inferens (Walker) and Chilo sacchariphagus indicus (Kapur) at early stage in South Gujarat Agroclimatic Zone II. Maximum infestation of sugarcane shoots by S. inferens based on number of larvae was observed during first fortnight of December followed by first fortnight of January. Likewise, maximum infestation of sugarcane shoots by C. sacchariphagus indicus based on number of larvae collected was observed during first fortnight of January followed by first fortnight of December and February. The maximum population of S. inferens was observed (87.76%) than C. sacchariphagus indicus (12.24%). Each species were naturally parasitized by complex of two parasitoids viz., Sturmiopsis inferens Towns end (Tachinidae: Diptera) and Cotesia flavipes Cameron (Hymenoptera: Braconidae). Larvae of S. inferens were maximum parasitized by S. inferens (58.17%) followed by C. flavipes (2.75%). Whereas, larvae of Chilo sp. were maximum parasitized by C. flavipes (10.29%) followed by S. inferens (2.67).','Chilo sacchariphagus indicus, Cotesia flavipes, parasitization, Sesamia inferens, Sturmiopsis inferens, Sugarcane','From the above study, it can be concluded that the complex infestation of two shoot borer species viz., Sesamia inferens (Walker) and Chilo sacchariphagus indicus (Kapur) was noticed at early stage of sugarcane in South Gujarat Agroclimatic Zone II. Maximum infestation of sugarcane shoots by S. inferens based on number of larvae was observed during first fortnight of December (average of 38 larvae followed by first fortnight of January (average of 30 larvae). Likewise, maximum infestation of sugarcane shoots by C. sacchariphagus indicus based on number of larvae collected was observed during first fortnight of January (average 5.67 larvae) followed by first fortnight of December and February (average 3.0 larvae) (Fig. 2). The maximum population of S. inferens was observed (87.76%) than C. sacchariphagus indicus (12.24%). Each species were naturally parasitized by complex of two parasitoids viz., Sturmiopsis inferens Townsend (Tachinidae: Diptera) and Cotesia flavipes Cameron (Hymenoptera: Braconidae). Larvae of S. inferens were maximum parasitized (58.17%) by S. inferens followed by C. flavipes (2.75%). Whereas, larvae of Chilo sp. were maximum parasitized by C. flavipes (10.29%) followed by S. inferens (2.67).','-','S.M. Chavan, C.U. Shinde and C.D. Pandya (2024). Studies on Sugarcane Shoot Borers in South Gujarat. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 16(1): 156-160.'),(8242,'172','Manufacture and characterization of Low Cholesterol Paneer Prepared from Buffalo Milk','Reji A.J., Divya M.P., Rajakumar S.N., Rejeesh R. and A.K. Beena ','Manufacture-and-characterization-of-Low-Cholesterol-Paneer-Prepared-from-Buffalo-Milk-Reji-AJ-37.pdf','',1,'Raw milk contains 0.25–0.40% of its total lipids as cholesterol, which has been linked chiefly to the fat globular membrane and the milk proteins. As a result, dairy products that are high in fat have a high cholesterol level. High cholesterol diets may lead to various coronary heart diseases and there is scope for methodologies that could reduce cholesterol in foods. Beta cyclodextrin (β-CD) is a cyclic oligosaccharide and due to its specific shape can entrap cholesterol molecule effectively. It is inexpensive and has been classified as safe by the Joint Expert Committee on Food Additives (JECFA) and the World Health Organization. Cholesterol removal by application of β-CD was highly selective, without adversely affecting the nutritional and flavour properties. In this study buffalo milk was treated with varying amounts of beta cyclodextrin (0.6,0.8 and 1%) and paneer was made. A control paneer was also prepared under identical conditions, except for the beta cyclodextrin treatment, and was compared to the treatments. The paneer treated with 1% beta cyclodextrin showed maximum cholesterol lowering potential. Cholesterol estimation was performed using enzymatic diagnostic kit. The paneer and whey were analyzed for residual beta cyclodextrin content and detected the same at an increasing trend as the rate of addition of beta cyclodextrin to the buffalo milk was increased. The physico-chemical properties of the different treatments were compared to those of control.','Low cholesterol paneer, cholesterol, beta cyclodextrin','Low cholesterol paneer was prepared from buffalo milk with the addition of β cyclodextrin. It was found that the addition of 1 % of the same had the highest cholesterol removal potential. There was no noticeable difference in the Yield and Physico-Chemical characteristics between the control and low-cholesterol produced paneer.','-','Reji A.J., Divya M.P., Rajakumar S.N., Rejeesh R. and A.K. Beena (2024). Manufacture and characterization of Low Cholesterol Paneer Prepared from Buffalo Milk. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 16(1): 161-165.'),(8243,'171','Nutritional Enhancement of Rice Based diets in Gangavati and Raichur Taluks of Kalyana Karnataka Region','Anupama C., Shwetha B.N., Jyothi R., Mallika Meti and Shreevani G.N.','Nutritional-Enhancement-of-Rice-Based-diets-in-Gangavati-and-Raichur-Taluks-of-Kalyana-Karnataka-Region-Anupama-C-10.pdf','',1,'Deficiency of micronutrients is rampant that too, specially, among the poor people all over the world, where daily intake of calories is limited mainly to a few staple cereals. Rice is a major staple food in Kalyan Karnataka region, it occupies nearly 50-60 percent of meal plate in majority of the families. This study was undertaken in Raichur and Gangavatitaluks of Kalyan Karnataka region, to create awareness about healthy diets including all the nutrients and to enhance the nutritive value of the daily diets of predominant rice users by conducting demonstrations and hands on training programmes. A total of 88 subjects were given two consecutive training programmes and thirteen method demonstrations were conducted to show the nutrient enrichment of rice- based diets. Pretest and posttest results revealed considerable improvement in the knowledge and practice of nutritional enhancement of rice based foods in the daily diet by incorporating pulses, whole grains, sprouts, milk and milk products, fermented foods. ','Diet, Meal, Nutrients, Micronutrients, Nutrition, Enrichment and Enhancement','Training and method demonstrations were effective in creating awareness and enhancing knowledge of women in rural areas regarding nutritional enhancement of their predominantly rice- based diets. Their knowledge regarding preparation of nutritionally rich foods was found increase considerably. Overall improvement in the dietary habit was observed in 63.63 percent of subjects which is noteworthy.','-','-'),(8244,'167','Impact of Integrated Nutrient Management on the Yield of Cowpea (Vigna unguiculata L. walp)','Pankaj Patel, Prakash Ghodeshwar, Avadhesh Singh Choudhary and Navneet Satankar','Impact-of-Integrated-Nutrient-Management-on-the-Yield-of-Cowpea-(Vigna-unguiculata-L.-walp)-Pankaj-Patel-20.pdf','',1,'The present study “Impact of integrated nutrient management on the yield of cowpea (Vigna unguiculata L. walp)” was investigated in a study conducted at Sardar Patel University Instructional Farm during 2021-2022. Various combinations of INM treatments were applied, evaluating their effects on different yield attributes of cowpea. The experiment utilized a Randomized Block design with three replications and eight treatment combinations. Observations were made on parameters including the number of pods per plant, pod length, seed count per pod, test weight, seed yield per plant, seed yield per plot, seed yield per hectare, stover yield per hectare, and harvest index. The results demonstrated a significant positive impact of INM treatments on cowpea yield attributes. Application of 100% Recommended Dose of Fertilizers (RDF) @ 25:50:25 kg NPK/ha (T2) exhibited superior results compared to control and other INM combinations, showing increased pod formation, longer pod length, higher seed count per pod, better test weight, and enhanced seed yield per plant, plot, and hectare. The balanced nutrient supply from INM treatments, particularly the optimal combination of nitrogen, phosphorus, and potassium, played a crucial role in supporting vegetative growth, improving photosynthesis, and enhancing seed production in cowpea. The findings underscore the significance of a well-balanced INM strategy in optimizing cowpea productivity while potentially promoting soil health through enhanced organic matter incorporation. The key challenge of study is exploring INM effects on cowpea yield highlighted challenges in soil variations, climate impact, and sustainable agricultural practices.','Integrated Nutrient Management, Cowpea Yield, Yield Attributes, Vermicompost, Cowpea, FYM','The observed increases in various yield attributes can be attributed to the balanced supply of essential nutrients provided by the INM treatments. These treatments ensured optimal levels of nutrients crucial for cowpea plant growth and development, leading to enhanced productivity. Additionally, the incorporation of organic amendments like vermicompost and FYM contributed to improved soil fertility, supporting healthy plant growth and resulting in better yield attributes.\r\nThe application of the recommended dose of fertilizer (RDF) at a specific ratio, particularly the treatment involving 100% RDF at 25:50:25 kg NPK/ha (T2), exhibited superior performance across multiple parameters. This treatment consistently outperformed the control (T1) and demonstrated comparable results with other INM treatments involving a mix of reduced chemical fertilizers and organic amendments like vermicompost and farmyard manure (FYM). \r\n','-','-'),(8245,'172','Surgico-therapeutic Management of Obstructive Urolithiasis in Adult Ruminants','Mohan Lal Sharma, S.K. Jhirwal, Mahendra Tanwar, Anita Kumari and Jyoti ','Surgico-therapeutic-Management-of-Obstructive-Urolithiasis-in-Adult-Ruminants-Mohan-Lalsharma-38.pdf','',1,'Obstructive urolithiasis is urine retention due to the calculi lodgment in the urinary tract. Thus, treatment of urolithiasis is basically to establish normal urinary passage, which can be accomplished in various ways depending on the severity of the condition. The study was conducted on 8 clinical cases of retention of urine in cattle and buffalo breeding bulls presented to the Clinics of Department of Veterinary Surgery and Radiology, College of veterinary and animal science, Bikaner (RAJUVAS) (Rajasthan). A clinical examination (anorexia, depression, bilateral abdominal distension and concretions at urethral orifice), abdominal palpation, history taking, and abdomino-centesis were done to confirm the diagnosis. A distended urinary bladder was discovered during a per-rectal examination. Based on the history and rigorous clinical examination the case was tentatively diagnosed as obstructive urolithiasis. Then Ischial urethrostomy was performed through ischial arch approach after aseptic preparation and restraining the animal. After surgery, all animals urinated continuously via catheter and postoperative follow-up was recorded. All animals uneventfully recovered and the skin sutures were removed on the 12th day of the operation.','Urolithiasis, Ischial urethrostomy, abdomino-centesis','Obstructive urolithiasis was more common under certain management conditions, such as intensive concentrate feeding and greater mineral concentrations in the groundwater. Ischial urethrostomy was a successful and effective surgical procedure for the treatment of obstructive urolithiasis. By altering the current management procedures, such as feeding concentrate and roughage in the right proportions, encouraging increased water intake, and advising the addition of sodium chloride to drinking water at a rate of 3–4% to increase frequent water intake, the disease can be largely prevented.','-','Mohan Lal Sharma, S.K. Jhirwal, Mahendra Tanwar, Anita Kumari and Jyoti (2024). Surgico-therapeutic Management of Obstructive Urolithiasis in Adult Ruminants. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 16(1): 166-169.'),(8246,'172','Effect of Lemon and Orange Peel Essential Oils on Body Weight and Body Weight Gain of Broilers Reared under Treated Bedding Material with Dry Neem Leaves during Summer Season','Lokesh Kumar, Rajni Arora, Praveen Pilaniya, Ravina, Sachin Chaudhary and Kusumlata Jhajhria ','Effect-of-Lemon-and-Orange-Peel-Essential-Oils-on-Body-Weight-and-Body-Weight-Gain-of-Broilers-Reared-under-Treated-Bedding-Material-with-Dry-Neem-Leaves-during-Summer-Season-Rajni-Arora-39.pdf','',1,'With increasing intensive poultry production systems, competent managemental practices must be adopted to combat stressful conditions. With this aim, an experiment was conducted to assess the effect of lemon and orange peel essential oils on body weight and body weight gain of broilers reared under treated bedding material with dry neem leaves during summer season.\r\nIn total, 240 day-old broiler chicks (Vencobb-400) were randomly assigned to eight treatment groups, having two replicates in each viz. T1 and T5 (control groups), T2 and T6 (supplemented Lemon peel essential oil @ 200mg/kg), T3 and T7 (supplemented Orange peel essential oil @ 200mg/kg), T4 and T8 (supplemented Lemon and Orange peel essential oil both @ 200mg/kg each in combination). T1, T2, T3, T4 and T5, T6, T7, T8 were kept on saw dust and saw dust with dry neem leaves, respectively.\r\nSignificant effect was observed due to dietary supplementation on body weight & average body weight gain while, effect of interaction of dietary supplementation and different bedding materials was non-significant.\r\n','Broiler, Lemon peel oil, Orange peel oil, Anti-oxidant','According to the outcomes of this experimental trial, it can be deduced that dietary supplementation of Lemon and Orange peel essential oil at @ 200mg/kg level alone and in combination enhances the overall performance of broiler chicks in terms of final live weight and average body weight gain. However, bedding material and interaction effects were non-significant statistically.','-','Lokesh Kumar, Rajni Arora, Praveen Pilaniya, Ravina, Sachin Chaudhary and Kusumlata Jhajhria (2024). Effect of Lemon and Orange Peel Essential Oils on Body Weight and Body Weight Gain of Broilers Reared under Treated Bedding Material with Dry Neem Leaves during Summer Season. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 16(1): 170-173.'),(8247,'170','Effect of Humic Acid fortified Briquettes on Yield, Quality and Nitrogen use Efficiency in Brinjal (Solanum melongena L.) in Lateritic Soils of Konkan','S.H. Gawde, M.C. Kasture, S.B. Dodake, V.G. Salvi and V.G. More','Effect-of-Humic-Acid-fortified-Briquettes-on-Yield,-Quality-and-Nitrogen-use-Efficiency-in-Brinjal-(Solanum-melongena-L.)-in-Lateritic-Soils-of-Konkan-SH-Gawde-77.pdf','',1,'Nutrient management in vegetable crops has increased importance as consumption of straight fertilizers is increased at tremendous rate. There is no denying the significance and accessibility of straight fertilizers, but crop availability owing to leaching and other losses makes them less effective and result in lower yield. Adequate and balanced fertilizer management in association with manures is very much essential to exploit the full yield potential of Brinjal Crop. Keeping this view, the field experiment was conducted at Dr. Balasaheb Sawant Konkan Krishi Vidyapeeth, Dapoli, Tal. Dapoli, Dist. Ratnagiri during the year 2021-2022 and 2022-23 with a view to study the effect of humic acid fortified briquettes on yield, quality parameters and nitrogen use efficiency of brinjal (Solanum melongena L.). The experiment was conducted in Factorial Randomized Block Design with three replications and fifteen treatment combinations. The results revealed that significantly highest fruit yield (29.83t ha-1 and 30.32t ha-1), highest anthocyanin content (18.68 mg 100 g-1 and 19.18 mg 100 g-1), lowest tannin content (118.76 mg 100 g-1 and 119.9 mg 100 g-1) and high nitrogen efficiency recorded as 56.15 percent and 59.25 percent was recorded in the year 2021-22 and 2022-23 respectively.','Briquettes, UB-10:26:26, Humic Acid, Yield, Anthocyanin,Tannin, Nitrogen Use Efficiency','In summary the results of this investigation revealed the influence of humic acid fortified briquettes on yield, quality parameters and nitrogen use efficiency of brinjal. Based on the findings of investigation it may be concluded that UB-10:26:26 fortified with potassium humic acid gave highest yield, high content of anthocyanin, lower content of tannin and high nitrogen use efficiency. The nitrogen use efficiency was found to be increased by 54-60 per cent by using fertilizer briquettes over straight fertilizers.','-','S.H. Gawde, M.C. Kasture, S.B. Dodake, V.G. Salvi and V.G. More (2023). Effect of Humic Acid fortified Briquettes on Yield, Quality and Nitrogen use Efficiency in Brinjal (Solanum melongena L.) in Lateritic Soils of Konkan. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 15(12): 420-424.'),(8248,'156','Effect of Meteorological variables on Larval Population of Legume Pod Borer Maruca vitrata (Fabricius) (Crambidae: Lepidoptera) in Vegetable Cowpea','Mirala Sruthi, Pravasini Behera, S.K. Mukherjee, J. Padhi, P. Tripathy and K.C. Samal ','Effect-of-Meteorological-variables-on-Larval-Population-of-Legume-Pod-Borer-Maruca-vitrata-(Fabricius)-(Crambidae-Lepidoptera)-in-Vegetable-Cowpea-Mirala-Sruthi-161.pdf','',1,'The present study was designed to develop an infestation predictive model based upon meteorological variables, that is, maximum temperature (Tmax), minimum temperature (Tmin), morning relative humidity (RHm), evening relative humidity (RHe), rainfall (RF), number of rainy days (NRD), bright sunshine hours (BSH), wind velocity (WV), and evapotranspiration (EVP), to predict Maruca vitrata larval density per plant. Correlation and regression analyses were performed to determine the relationship of meteorological variables with larval density per plant. A significant correlation was found between larval density per plant WV (r =.793) as well as with EVP (r =.804) and during summer 2021, whereas there was a negative significant correlation between Tmin (r = -.713) and a significant positive correlation between RHm (r = .804) and larval density per plant during kharif, 2021. Environmental variables and larval density per plant data from two consecutive seasons (summer and kharif, 2021) were used to develop a Maruca vitrata infestation predictive model using a stepwise multiple regression analysis. During summer 2021 Tmin, RHe, NRD, EVP; and during kharif 2021, RHm, RHe, RF, NRD, WV, and EVP significantly (p<0.05) contributed to larval density per plant and explained 99% (R2) of the total variance in larval density per plant during both seasons. The forecasting model developed would be useful to predict infestation severity by the legume pod borer before epidemic occurrence and the time of pesticide application. Hence, the model is helpful to reduce the use of pesticides, lessen environmental pollution, and help limit the cost of production for cowpea growers.','Meteorological variables, correlation, stepwise multiple regression analysis, Maruca vitrata, larval density per plant and predictive model','The study developed an infestation predictive model based on meteorological variables to predict Maruca vitrata larval density per plant. Correlation and regression analyses were performed to determine the relationship between meteorological variables and larval density. Results showed a significant correlation between wind velocity and larval density during summer 2021, while negative correlations were found during kharif 2021. This study aims to determine the ideal climatic conditions for the rapid spread of the cowpea pod borer. The regression model can help predict infestation severity and pesticide application time, reducing pesticide use, environmental pollution, and limiting production costs for cowpea growers. There was satisfactory agreement between actual and projected values of M. vitrata larvae density per plant, which implies the fitted regression model of M. vitrata infestation and weather association could rationally forecast the field incidence of legume pod borer in vegetable cowpea.','-','Mirala Sruthi, Pravasini Behera, S.K. Mukherjee, J. Padhi, P. Tripathy and K.C. Samal (2023). Effect of Meteorological variables on Larval Population of Legume Pod Borer Maruca vitrata (Fabricius) (Crambidae: Lepidoptera) in Vegetable Cowpea. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 15(4): 982-988.'),(8249,'172','Traditional to Modern Approaches for Agronomic Biofortification of Food Crops with Zn and Fe: A Review','Prerna Dogra, Dalpat Lal, Omprakash, Kamini Parashar, Aabha Parashar, Aparna, S.R. Rundala, Ramesh Asiwal and Lakshay Choudhary','Traditional-to-Modern-Approaches-for-Agronomic-Biofortification-of-Food-Crops-with-Zn-and-Fe-A-Review-Omprakash-40.pdf','',1,'Biofortification is an emerging, promising, affordable, and long-term method of providing nutritional security to a population with limited access to a variety of diets and any other micronutrient interventions. The efficacy of agronomic biofortification has been further enhanced by the advent of high-specialty fertilizers such as water-soluble, chelated, and nano-fertilizers, which have greater nutrient translocation to the consumable portions of a crop plant and high nutrient absorption efficiency. The significance of agronomic biofortification has been further enhanced by a number of novel strategies, including foliar application, soilless activation, nutripriming, and mechanized application methods. The agronomic biofortification significance for global nutritional & food security has been reinforced by these recent technical developments as well as a growing understanding of mineral micronutrient nutrition. The review emphasizes the progress made in the area of agronomic biofortification through the development of new, improved forms of fertilizer and cutting-edge methods which improves crop plants\' ability to use micronutrients.','Biofortification, specialty fertilizers, nutritional security, nutrient uptake efficiency','Growers can readily adopt agronomic biofortification because it is easy to follow. Farmers and growers typically don\'t care for agronomic biofortification because it doesn\'t directly increase crop yield, even though it has clear financial benefits. With the development of many kinds of specialty fertilizers, such as chelated fertilizers, nano-fertilizers, water-soluble fertilizers, and biofertilizers, which have better nutrient translocation to the consumable plant parts and higher plant nutrient use efficiency, the efficacy of agronomic biofortification has increased recently. Future research should concentrate heavily on agronomic biofortification in order to ensure that crops are enriched with micronutrients and combat hidden hunger.','-','Prerna Dogra, Dalpat Lal, Omprakash, Kamini Parashar, Aabha Parashar, Aparna, S.R. Rundala, Ramesh Asiwal and Lakshay Choudhary (2024). Traditional to Modern Approaches for Agronomic Biofortification of Food Crops with Zn and Fe: A Review. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 16(1): 174-182.'),(8250,'170','Effective Augmentative Release of Natural Enemies and Agro- ecosystem Management in Integrated Pest Management','P.P. Khandagale, Jay Padsala, S.A. Landge, M.R. Siddhapara and P.R. Patel','Effective Augmentative Release of Natural Enemies and Agro-ecosystem Management in Integrated Pest Management-PP Khandagale-78.pdf','',1,'For successful suppression of pest without judicious application of pesticides will obtain from use of different biological control entities like parasites, predators and microbials at specific time and place with as necessary application knowledge of it. The aim of biological control in Integrated Pest Management (IPM) system have application of different natural enemies for the pest control to manage them at below economic injury level (EIL). They are introduced from commercial source without hyperparasites and conserve them with use of different tools. In augmentation when we release the same with periodic interval at small numbers of population or once time in cropping period with more population according to the crop and necessities. The utmost result require the manipulation of agro ecosystem in such a way that they can easily live, reproduce and perpetuate on host. Farmer must aware about refuge -weed, rational use of pesticides, change in crop ecosystem with conventional tillage practices, mulches, alternate host plants, cover crop, shelter belt, banker and pollinators plants for survival and multiplication of natural enemies. So that the un necessary cost on application of insecticides, other input cost and soil hazards with environmental pollution may be decreased. By using IPM with biological entities the safe, hygienic and poison free food harvest will possible with conservation of biosphere.','Habitat manipulation, parasites, natural enemies, IPM, Augmentation','All above natural enemies and respective example of their ecological management give in depth idea about how to manage their habitat for their host specificity, synchrony with the host pest, high fecundity, low mortality and ability to survive with crop management. It is prime important to take care of natural enemies after their release in new locality using different ecological methods so that they easily adopt the new environment and showing result of biological control of pest. Rationalized use of pesticides with information about their physiological or ecological selectivity enhances their application result with harboring and maintaining the population of natural enemies in vicinity of crop. They also reduce cost of different inputs, its application wages and detrimental effect on the environments. Huaman being as central role in industrial agro ecosystem management as VASUDEV KUTUMBKAM will be important for sustainable and incredible life on earth (All live symbiotically and trust ship on biosphere of earth).','-','P.P. Khandagale, Jay Padsala, S.A. Landge, M.R. Siddhapara and P.R. Patel (2023). Effective Augmentative Release of Natural Enemies and Agro- ecosystem Management in Integrated Pest Management. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 15(12): 425-430.'),(8251,'172','Effect of Different Organic Inputs for Growth and Yield Characteristics of Pea (Pisum sativam L.) cv. Kashi Nandini','Ankit, Balveer Singh, Rupesh Rathor and Malay Marut Sharma','Effect-of-Different-Organic-Inputs-for-Growth-and-Yield-Characteristics-of-Pea-(Pisum-sativam-L.)-cv.-Kashi-Nandini-Balveer-Singh-41.pdf','',1,'The present investigation different organic inputs for growth and yield parameters was executed at Agricultural Research Centre, Department of Horticulture, Rabindranath Tagore University, Raisen (U.P.) during the year 2022-23 with twelve treatment and three replication. The plant population was not affected significantly by integrated nutrient management practices. The highest plant population, plant height, number of primary and secondary branches, number of leaves, fresh weight and dry weight of plant was recorded under (T10) FYM+ Vermi-vash + Panchgavya + Jeevamrit followed by Mycorrhiza + vermi-vash + Jeevamrit. The yield attributes viz., number of pod/plant, pod length, number of seed/pod, yield/plant, green pod yield/ha and test weight were recorded highest with the application FYM + Vermi-vash + Panchgavya + Jeevamrit which was significantly superior over all the treatments. The lowest yield attributes was recorded under control treatment.','Pea, FYM, Panchgavya, Jeevamrit, Mycorrhiza, Vermi-vash','Based on one year study, the application FYM+ Vermi-vash + Panchgavya + Jeevamrit followed by with application Mycorrhiza + vermi-vash + Jeevamrit and Sagrica (Granule) + Sagrica liquid + Jeevamrit recorded highest yield as well as net return (Rs/ha). The farmers are advised that among the organic nutrient management practice FYM+ Vermi-vash + Panchgavya + Jeevamrit was the best application for enhance the productivity of pea.','-','Ankit, Balveer Singh, Rupesh Rathor and Malay Marut Sharma (2024). Effect of Different Organic Inputs for Growth and Yield Characteristics of Pea (Pisum sativam L.) cv. Kashi Nandini. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 16(1): 183-186.'),(8252,'147','Study on Effectiveness of Managerial Abilities of Agricultural Extension Personnel by using Gap Percent Analysis','V.K. Gogi Reddy, B.P. Mohapatra and Sarbani Das ','Study-on-Effectiveness-of-Managerial-Abilities-of-Agricultural-Extension-Personnel-by-using-Gap-Percent-Analysis-VK-Gogi-Reddy-145.pdf','',1,'Current study was undertaken, to Study on Effectiveness of Managerial Abilities of Agricultural Extension Personnel in the state of Andhra Pradesh. The study was conducted in Godavari Region of Andhra Pradesh State, is purposively selected. For the study ex-post facto research design is utilized from every level 40 individuals are selected randomly 20 from every District to make up a sample of 160 from all the four levels. The scale developed by H.B. Gardharia with suitable modifications was applied. A total of ten indicators namely, Planning, Organizing, Directing, Communicating, Controlling, Human Relation, Leading, Supervising, Coordinating and Decision Making were considered. A detailed statements of questionnaire was prepared by considering all these indicators. The agricultural extension personnel were asked to respond on the interview schedule developed the response was collected, the data processed and analysed by using mean, gap percent analysis. From the results it can be observed that the agricultural extension personnel have good Planning, Organizing, Directing, Communicating, Controlling, Human Relation, Leading, Supervising, Coordinating and Decision-Making ability with less gap percentage.','Effectiveness, Planning, Organizing, Directing, Communicating, Controlling, Human Relation, Leading, Supervising, Coordinating, Decision Making, Managerial Abilities, gap percent analysis, Agricultural Extension Personnel, Andhra Pradesh','From the results and discussion, it is found that highest gap percent was exerted In planning, by Plan for utilization of funds/Budget; In Organizing, by Delegation of authority according to the responsibility; In Directing, by Give proper direct instructions; In Communicating, by Establishment of feed-back mechanism; In Controlling, by Keep a careful check on efficiency; In Human Relation, by Make personal contact with subordinate; In Leading, by Convince the higher authority; In Supervising, by Take personal interest; In Coordinating, Get co-operation from outside; and In Decision Making, by Basic and routine decision. for effective Managerial Abilities these problems should be addressed and necessary steps should be taken. \r\nAnd also gap percent exerted by Planning as a whole is 9.61 %, Organizing as a whole is 8.99 %, Directing as a whole is 6.67 %, Communicating as a whole is 11.63 %, Controlling as a whole is 7.95 %, Human Relation as a whole is 9.46 %, Leading as a whole is 8.18 %, Supervising as a whole is 8.37 %, Coordinating as a whole is 17.38% and Decision-Making as a whole is 15.57 % from these results we can conclude that the managerial abilities of agricultural extension personnel are good. But to increase the efficiency of agricultural extension personnel and effectiveness of their Managerial Abilities we should give some more focus on improving Coordinating and Decision-Making abilities of agricultural extension personnel.\r\n','-','V.K. Gogi Reddy, B.P. Mohapatra and Sarbani Das (2022). Study on Effectiveness of Managerial Abilities of Agricultural Extension Personnel by using Gap Percent Analysis. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 14(4a): 840-847.'),(8253,'172','Optimizing Quality and Shelf Life of Pomfret (Paratromateus argenteus) Fillets through Ultrasound Processing','Vivek Kumar, M.K. Yadav and Anand Rao Azad','Optimizing-Quality-and-Shelf-Life-of-Pomfret-(Paratromateus-argenteus)-Fillets-through-Ultrasound-Processing-MK-Yadav-42.pdf','',1,'Pomfret (Paratromateus Argenteus) is one of the important seafood popular among the people and traded worldwide. It is high value commodity with good demand for fresh, chilled and frozen fish in world sea food market. The packaged samples were treated with frequency of 28 kHz and 40 kHz at time interval of 10 min (10, 20, 30, and 40 min) at room temperature (30°C). Untreated samples and the ultrasound (US) treated samples were analyzed for quality changes in terms of physical (colour, texture), biochemical content (TVB-N), and microbiological (total plate count) attributes. In results it was found that ultrasound processing is effective in enhancing microbiological safety and quality of seafood. Results reveled that US is very effective in reducing microbial loads in pomfret fillets with maximum reduction at 40 kHz treated for 40 min. For storage stability and self-life evaluation the changes in different quality attributes of LDPE packed pomfret fillets was assessed at refrigerated storage (4 °C) interval of 5 days for 25 days, in significant relationships were observed between color and texture.','TVB-N, Biochemical, Cavitation, Quality and Reduction','Pomfret (P. argenteus) is highly perishable and spoilage occurs during transportation, and retail display due to enzymatic and microbial activity. Ultrasound processing has a wide variety of applications in the processing and evaluation of products. The present study show that US is very effective in reducing microbial loads in pomfret fillets with maximum reduction at 40 kHz treated for 40 min. The colour parameters L* (lightness) and b* (yellowness) increases but a* (redness) decreases for both the frequency treated samples with increase in treatment time. All the textural parameters (hardness, cohesiveness, springiness, gumminess and chewiness) increase in both frequency treated sample. TVB-N content of both frequency treated samples shows a decreasing trend with increasing treatment time. From this results it was concluded that texture and colour the two major quality parameters of fish significantly affected by ultrasound processing and there significant reduction in TVB-N content and microbes at both the frequency. In case of storage stability and self-life evaluation the changes in different quality attributes of LDPE packed pomfret fillets was assessed at refrigerated storage (4 °C) interval of 5 days for 25 days. In case of storage stability and self-life evaluation the changes in different quality attributes of LDPE packed pomfret fillets was assessed at refrigerated storage (4 °C) interval of 5 days for 25 days.','-','Vivek Kumar, M.K. Yadav and Anand Rao Azad (2024). Optimizing Quality and Shelf Life of Pomfret (Paratromateus argenteus) Fillets through Ultrasound Processing. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 16(1): 187-196.'),(8254,'170','Bee Pollination: Its Role in Yield and Quality Enhancement in Cucurbits','Shreevani G.N., Anupama C., Hemalatha K.J. and Mallika Meti','Bee-Pollination-Its-Role-in-Yield-and-Quality-Enhancement-in-Cucurbits-Shreevani-GN-79.pdf','',1,'Many factors influence the yield and quality of cucurbit crops, but one important consideration is successful pollination. Poor fruit set and deformed fruit are often the result of in adequate pollination. Cucumber flowers are pollinated exclusively by honeybees and other insect pollinators which is the major reason for successful pollination and increased yields. In this regard, keeping in view the pollination requirements of cucumber, a demonstration was conducted in 10 farmers’ fields of Bhumangunda and Mallapura villages of Devadurgataluk of Raichur district. The prioritized problems in these regions were the low and poor quality yields in cucumber and also farmers in this region were unaware of the bee-pollination. Around 200 hectares of land was under cucurbits in this area but no farmer was aware of using bee-boxes for pollination. In order to create awareness about bee-pollination and to enhance the quality and quantity of the produce, training programmes and demonstrations were conducted by ICAR-Krishi Vigyan Kendra, Raichur. A total of 100farmers were given two consecutive training programmes well before the crop season and ten demonstrations were conducted to show the potentiality of bee-pollination in cucurbits. The results revealed considerable improvement in the quality and quantity of the produce of yield in cucumber and also farmers got extra income from the honey yield.','Honey bees, Pollination, Cucumber, Honey, Yield, Quality','Bee pollination provides a wide variety of benefits to humanity, contributing to food processing, raw materials, medicines, fibers, social, cultural values, and the maintenance of biodiversity and environmental protections. Fertilized soil, irrigated crops and pest control may not be enough to produce a quality cucurbit crop, if you’ve also had poor pollination. The present demonstration results showed that there was a substantial boost in the yield as well as quality of the produce of cucumber. Not only the farmers were happy about their yields but they also got additional income from the honey obtained from the beehives. At the same time, the pre-season training programmes were also effective in creating awareness and enhancing knowledge of farmers in rural areas regarding bee-pollination. ','-','Shreevani G.N., Anupama C., Hemalatha K.J. and Mallika Meti (2023). Bee Pollination: Its Role in Yield and Quality Enhancement in Cucurbits. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 15(12): 431-434.'),(8255,'171','Efficacy of Yagya Therapy in Paralysis Treatment: Some Case Studies','Acharya Balkrishna, Swami Yagyadev, Deepika Arya, Ajay Kumar Gautam and Vedpriya Arya','Efficacy-of-Yagya-Therapy-in-Paralysis-Treatment-Some-Case-Studies-Acharya-Balkrishna-11.pdf','',1,'Paralysis is a symptom of some major ailment in the body that may take days or months to recover. The available treatments are not only expensive; they may have numerous side effects. Yagya therapy, on the other hand presents an efficient alternative or supportive therapy for paralysis treatment. The basic composition of yagya samgri contains different medicinal herbs that are reported to have several remedial effects. A paralysis specific yagya samgri namely “Divya Medheshti” that consists a mixture of paralysis-specific medicinal herbs like Bacopa monnieri, Convolvulus pluricaulis, Acorus calamus, Lavandula stoechas, Celastrus paniculatus, Withania somnifera, Inula racemose, Achyranthes aspera, Nardostachys jatamansi, Cinnamomum camphora and kapor wood is used in the present study to evaluate its effect on 14 patients of in the age group of 19–75 years. The patients were continued with yagya and pranayama for a duration of 10 days to 11 months. The patients have experienced satisfactory to complete relief after the yagya treatment. Therefore, yagya therapy is an affordable form of treatment for paralysis that helps in the restoration of lost muscle control and provides much-needed hope and a positive attitude. ','Case studies, medicinal herbs, paralysis, treatment, yagya therapy','Based on the observation and results of the present study it was concluded that Yagya therapy with paralysis-specific Yagya samgri namely “Divya Medheshti” consists of a mixture of paralysis-specific medicinal herbs has the potential to improve paralytic patients from satisfactory to significant level when this treatment has been taken along with yoga exercises like pranayama. Therefore, Yagya therapy is an affordable form of treatment for paralysis that helps in the restoration of lost muscle control and provides much-needed hope and a positive attitude.','-','-'),(8256,'171','A Study on Soil Health Issues in Cultivating Curry leaf (Murraya koenigii) in Nutrition Gardens of Raichur district in Karnataka','Anupama C., Shwetha B. N. , Shreevani, G.N. and Mallika Meti','A-Study-on-Soil-Health-Issues-in-Cultivating-Curry-leaf-(Murraya-koenigii)-in-Nutrition-Gardens-of-Raichur-district-in-Karnataka-Anupama-C-12.pdf','',1,'Curry leaves (Murraya koenigii) have been used as a flavouring agent in Indian cuisine since long time. Many studies have revealed that the curry leaves, whether fresh or dried, are a good source of many nutrients that benefit the human health. However, there are typical problems associated in cultivating the plant in the backyards. It is essential to consider the soil related factors that support the proper establishment of the plant, which requires generally two years. Hence, the present study was conducted for two years in Mandalagera village, Raichur taluk and Raitanagar Camp village in Sindhanur taluk, of Raichur district. There were 38 gardens, in which plants could successfully establish among the 50 initiated in two villages. Each of these gardens was evaluated for their soil health properties that supposed to support the plant establishment. Typical soil properties ranged between low to medium soil nutrition content as per the soil health composition. The established curry leaf plants were evaluated for their plant properties such as height and spread of canopy. Their patterns of distribution were studied. The plant height ranged from 95 to 185 cm, with an average of 126.6 cm and their canopy width ranged from 52 to 175 cm, with an average of 121.1 cm. Every plant in the garden was supplied with the farm yard manure regularly at an interval of two months and soil moisture was maintained. ','Curry leaf, Murraya koenigii, Nutrition Garden, Soil Health, FYM','The study on soil health issues in cultivating curry leaf (Murraya koenigii) in nutrition gardens in neutral to alkaline soils concludes the requirement of continuous management of soil health. The observations made during the study for two years concluded the effectiveness of the initial establishment with a success of 76 % of plant survivability. ','-','-'),(8257,'170','Screening of Rice Genotypes for Biochemical and Yield and Yield Contributing Characters under Direct Seeded Condition','Shirin Firoz Khan, P.V. Shende, S.A. Patil, Anjali D. Sable, Prema R. Manapure and R.M. Ghodpage','Screening-of-Rice-Genotypes-for-Biochemical-and-Yield-and-Yield-Contributing-Characters-under-Direct-Seeded-Condition-Shirin-Firoz-Khan-80.pdf','',1,'A field experiment was conducted during kharif 2022, to study the evaluation of rice genotypes under direct seeded condition. The experiment was laid down in randomized block design (RBD) with eleven rice genotypes viz., SYE-68-15-34-31-12-35-13, SYE-930-8-25, SYE-94-32-9-17, SYE-335-4-37-9, SYE-309-39-13-18-5-23-20, SYE-1635-40-15-4-9-44-18, PKV-HMT (CH), PDKV Tilak (CH), PKV Ganesh (CH), PDKV Kisan (CH), Awishkar (CH) and three replications at research farm of Botany Section College of Agriculture, Nagpur. Observations about biochemical parameters like leaf chlorophyll, nitrogen content and amylose content were also estimated. Observations on yield and yield contributing parameters. Significantly enhance biochemical parameters like chlorophyll and Nitrogen content in leaves and amylose content in seed were also enhanced check PKV-Ganesh, PKV-HMT, PDKV Tilak, PDKV Kisan and Awishkar.','Rice, biochemical parameters, yield','The check PKV Ganesh significantly showed significant enhancement in morpho-physiological parameters viz., plant height, number of tillers hill-1, days to flower initiation, days to 50% flowering, days to maturity, leaf area plant-1, leaf area index, total dry weight, RGR and NAR. Similarly biochemical parameters like chlorophyll and Nitrogen content in leaves and amylose content in seed were also enhanced check PKV-Ganesh, PKV-HMT, PDKV Tilak, PDKV Kisan and Awishkar. Yield and yield attributing parameters, grain yield kg/plot and grain yield ha-1 (kg) were also showed significant increment by genotypes SYE-309-39-13-18-5-23-20 and SYE-94-32-9-17.','-','Shirin Firoz Khan, P.V. Shende, S.A. Patil, Anjali D. Sable, Prema R. Manapure and R.M. Ghodpage (2023). Screening of Rice Genotypes for Biochemical and Yield and Yield Contributing Characters under Direct Seeded Condition. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 15(12): 435-439.'),(8258,'174','Improvisation of Retrieval Effectiveness by CR-Reranking Method ','S. Purushothaman ','Improvisation of Retrieval Effectiveness by CR-Reranking Method -S Purushothaman-2.pdf','',1,'Users are generally interested in the edge-ranked section of returning search results, according to an analysis of click-through data from a very big search engine log. As a result, search engines must achieve great accuracy with top-ranked documents. While there are many methods for improving video search performance, they either ignore the above factor or have difficulties in practical applications. In this paper, we introduce CR Re-Rating, a flexible and effective re-rating approach for improving recovery efficiency. CR Re-Rating employs a cross-referencing (CR) technique to integrate multimodal data in order to deliver high accuracy for top-rated outcomes. Test findings reveal that search quality has greatly improved, particularly for top-ranked results.','Clustering, image/video retrieval, multimedia databases','In this study, we describe a new reclassification approach that uses a cross-referencing mechanism to integrate multimodal characteristics. It can handle first search results in modal spaces such as color and text separately. The early search results, in particular, are separated into numerous unique groups in various feature spaces. Each space\'s clusters are then assigned to predetermined ranks depending on their relevance to the inquiry. The cross-referencing technique may integrate ranked clusters of all feature spaces hierarchically into a single enhanced result rating using ranked clusters of all feature spaces. Test findings reveal that search performance has greatly improved, particularly for top-ranked results.','-','S. Purushothaman (2023). Improvisation of Retrieval Effectiveness by CR-Reranking Method. International Journal on Emerging Technologies, 14(2): 06–12.'),(8259,'172','Cultivation Practices Adopted in Gladiolus (Gladiolus grandiflorus L.) for Maximizing the Production','Itishree Pradhan, Sushree Sangeeta, Prachurjya Samantaray, Sukirti Mohanty, Aradhana Nayak, Akanshya Pattanaik and Reshma Sahoo','Cultivation Practices Adopted in Gladiolus (Gladiolus grandiflorus L.) for Maximizing the Production-Sukirti Mohanty-43.pdf','',1,'The classic bulbous perennial gladiolus, or Gladiolus grandiflorus L., is native to South Africa and is a member of the Iridaceae family of flowers. It is a monocot plant with about 150 species currently recognized. Gladiolus can be cultivated in a broad variety of soil types, from light sandy to clay loam, and in a wide range of weather conditions. The natural proliferation of new corms and cormels is the usual method of propagation. Gladiolus flower output quality is influenced by planting depth and timing. For this crop, a 50:60:60 kg NPK fertilizer dose per acre combined with 10 MT FYM works well. Irrigation schedules can be made to prevent nutrients from seeping into deeper soil layers while also taking into account the rooting area. Using herbicides on crops, such as pre- and post-emergence treatments, allows for cost-effective weed management and boosts output. When it came to reducing the number of insect pests, neem seed kernel at 200 gm/L water plus Trichogramma evanescense at 0.5 gm/ 6 sq. m proved to be more effective than the other treatments. One of the main culprits of gladiolus yellowing and corm rot is the soil-borne fungus Fusarium oxysporum f.sp. gladioli. Depending on the cultivars and season, gladiolus spikes can be harvested 60–100 days after planting. Additionally, it has been found that GA3 delays the proteolysis linked to senescence and wilting. By preserving protein and cellular integrity, cytokinin can also postpone petal senescence. By enhancing membrane integrity and postponing the peroxidation of membrane lipids, postharvest treatment of cut flowers with benzyl adenine (BA) prolongs the vase life of the flowers. Gladiolus spike and corm yields are influenced by cultivar, corm size, planting density, and management techniques. As a result, some 80,000 spikes would be produced per acre. Depending on the cultivar, planting depth, and other factors, the yield of cormel varies between 1.5 and 2.5 quintals per acre.','Gladiolus, Corms, Spike, flower, fertilizer, Gibberellic acid, yield, post harvest handling, shelf life','This review paper summarises the scientific cultivation practise of Gladiolus to maximise the yield and quality of the flowers keeping in view about environment sustainability, as this occupies a promising position in the cut flower market both in national and inter-national market.','-','Itishree Pradhan, Sushree Sangeeta, Prachurjya Samantaray, Sukirti Mohanty, Aradhana Nayak, Akanshya Pattanaik and Reshma Sahoo (2024). Cultivation Practices Adopted in Gladiolus (Gladiolus grandiflorus L.) for Maximizing the Production. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 16(1): 197-204.'),(8260,'168','Association of Some Haematological and Metabolic Parameters with Cold Stress in Female Marwari Sheep','Babita Kumari, Sunita Pareek, Ruchi Maan and Mohit Jain','Association-of-Some-Hematolgy-and-Metabolic-Parameters-with-Cold-Stress-in-Female-Marwari-Sheep-Babita-Kumari-304.pdf','',1,'The study aimed to investigate the relationship between hematological and metabolic parameters in Marwari sheep in cold stress. A total of 180 animals were screened for sampling, 90 in moderate and 90 in cold environment. Blood samples were collected from healthy female Marwari sheep. Blood metabolites and hematological parameters were evaluated by their standard method. The parameters include metabolites (glucose, total protein, urea, creatinine, cholesterol) and hematological indicators (hemoglobin, PCV, ESR). The higher average values of metabolites (except total plasma proteins) cold environmental temperatures, suggesting that cold stress positively correlates to the metabolites. The lower average mean values of hematological parameters were observed in cold environmental temperatures, suggesting that cold stress negatively correlates to the hematological parameters. The findings from this study highlight that metabolic and haematological parameters behave differently as a result of changing seasons. Therefore, this study provided helpful insights into physiological adaptations towards environmental cold stress.','Metabolites, Sheep, Haematological, Glucose, Cholesterol, Cold Stress, Correlation','According to this study we concluded that sheep adapt to cold environments by altering their body\'s metabolic and haematological condition in order to manage stress.','-','Babita Kumari, Sunita Pareek, Ruchi Maan and Mohit Jain (2023). Association of Some Hematolgy and Metabolic Parameters with Cold Stress in Female Marwari Sheep. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 15(10): 1671-1674.'),(8261,'172','Orchids, the Jewels of Kuldiha Wildlife Sanctuary of Balasore District, Odisha, India','S.P. Panda, P. Mardaraj, Z. Mazhar, K. Chakraborty, S. Dasgupta, D. Behera and R. K. Nayak ','Orchids-the-Jewels-of-Kuldiha-Wildlife-Sanctuary-of-Balasore-District-Odisha-India-SP-Panda-44.pdf','',1,'The Kuldiha Wildlife Sanctuary in the Balasore district of Odisha is one of the biodiversity rich protected areas of immense importance out of the 21 sanctuaries of Odisha being the transition point between the Similipal Biosphere Reserve and Hadagarh Wildlife Sanctuary. Its congenial climatic conditions along with other edaphic factors enables this wildlife sanctuary to harbour a moderately rich orchid flora. Orchids the rare and unique components of a healthy forest ecosystem do not attain the attention as it deserves to be. Taking this into account the present piece of work deals with the enumeration of 24 orchids dwelling in the Kuldiha Wildlife Sanctuary along with their socio-economic importance and conservation practices. This will surely pave the way for creating due awareness among different populace.','Orchid, Diversity, Kuldiha, Therapeutic importance, Conservation','-','-','S.P. Panda, P. Mardaraj, Z. Mazhar, K. Chakraborty, S. Dasgupta, D. Behera and R. K. Nayak (2024). Orchids, the Jewels of Kuldiha Wildlife Sanctuary of Balasore District, Odisha, India. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 16(1): 205-212.'),(8262,'172','Phytonutrients: Potential Health Benefits','S.K. Kachhot and B.G. Patel','Phytonutrients-Potential-Health-Benefits-SK-Kachhot-45.pdf','',1,'Plant foods contain a variety of nutrients (carbohydrates, proteins, lipids, etc.) that can cover almost all of our nutritional needs. In addition, plant foods contain rich biologically active ingredients called “phytonutrients” that have many benefits for human health; these include, among others, polyphenols, flavonoids, carotenoids, limonoids, phytosterols and anthocyanins. Certain health benefits that these active compounds provide to people include lipid-lowering, anti-aging, anti-diabetic, anti-allergic, and anti-inflammatory properties. The body uses phytonutrients to maintain and modulate immunological function, which helps to prevent certain diseases. These \"functional foods,\" often known as \"medical foods\", are rich in phytonutrients or phytomedicines that enhance health, prevent disease, and positively maintain well-being. The scientific study of healing with a class of natural compounds, such as certain herbs and their derivatives that are controlled as foods and used as dietary supplements, is referred to by the more recent titles \"phytonutrients\" and \"phytotherapy\". An overview of phytonutrients\' recent advancements in health benefits is provided in this review article.','Phytonutrients, Plant-based foods, Phytotherapy, Health','In conclusion, there is a clear correlation between the regular consumption of foods high in phytochemicals, including fruits, vegetables, whole grains, etc., and a lower risk of chronic illnesses like cancer and cardiovascular disease. For this reason, eating a diet high in vibrant fruits and vegetables is essential for overall health, happiness, and potential illness prevention.','-','S.K. Kachhot and B.G. Patel (2024). Phytonutrients: Potential Health Benefits. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 16(1): 213-218.'),(8263,'172','In-vitro Evaluation of Fungicides against False Smut (Ustilaginoidea virens) Disease of Rice','Ashwani Kumar, Anupam Kumar, Vinod Kumar, Rajan Kamboj, Ravinder, Ritika Singh, Neeraj Bhardwaj, Ashish and Preeti Thakur ','In-vitro-Evaluation-of-Fungicides-against-False-Smut-(Ustilaginoidea-virens)-Disease-of-Rice-46.pdf','',1,'Rice (Oryzae sativa L.) is the staple food for more than 3.5 billion people around the world. Rice is constantly attacked by biotic stresses namely pathogens, insects and weeds etc. False smut of rice is a destructive inflorescence disease caused by U. virens (Cooke) Takahashi. The disease caused yield losses of rice by 2.8–81 % depending on the disease intensity. It is categorized as a minor disease due to its sporadic occurrence. The poisoned food method was employed for the evaluation of chemicals in-vitro against U. virens. The experiment was conducted to find out the efficacy of different fungicides on the mycelial growth of U. virens causing false smut disease of rice. All the fungicides tested significantly inhibited the mycelial growth of U. virens over control. After 72 hours, the maximum inhibition (92.93%) was recorded in T9- Tricyclazole 75% WP at 200 ppm and T3 (57.17%), respectively. Whereas, Minimum inhibition per cent of mycelial growth were recorded in T1- Propiconazole 20% EC (21.41%).','Rice, Ustilaginoidea virens, Mycelial Growth, Fungicides and disease','It was observed that Tricyclazole 75% WP was found most effective resulting maximum inhibition 92.93% of Ustilaginoidea virens at 200ppm while Propiconazole 20 % EC and Carbendazim 50% WP both showed minimum radial growth after 72 hours. ','-','Ashwani Kumar, Anupam Kumar, Vinod Kumar, Rajan Kamboj, Ravinder, Ritika Singh, Neeraj Bhardwaj, Ashish and Preeti Thakur (2024). In-vitro Evaluation of Fungicides Against False Smut (Ustilaginoidea virens) Disease of Rice. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 16(1): 219-222.'),(8264,'172','Some potent medicinal Orchids of Similipal Biosphere Reserve, Odisha, India','S.P. Panda, Z. Mazhar, K. Chakraborty, S. Dasgupta, D. Behera and R. K. Nayak','Some-potent-medicinal-Orchids-of-Similipal-Biosphere-Reserve-Odisha-India-SP-Panda-47.pdf','',1,'A study was carried out in Similipal Biosphere Reserve (SBR) of Odisha for survey and documentation medicinally potent orchids. During the study attention was paid to study the habitat details, ecology, region of occurrence, flowering and medicinal importance of orchids dwelling in SBR. Several herbaria and relevant literatures were consulted for correct identification of the species and documentation as well as validation of medicinal uses of the orchids. A total of 23 species of orchids were enlisted during the study belonging to 14 genera (14 epiphytic, terrestrial and 01 having both terrestrial and epiphytic nature). ','Orchid, Diversity, Kuldiha, Therapeutic importance, Conservation','-','-','S.P. Panda, Z. Mazhar, K. Chakraborty, S. Dasgupta, D. Behera and R. K. Nayak (2024). Some potent medicinal Orchids of Similipal Biosphere Reserve, Odisha, India. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 16(1): 223-227.'),(8265,'172','Optimization of Macro-propagation of Schizostachyum dullooa (Gamble) through Culm Cuttings','Mohd Ibrahim, Ritashree Khanikar, Sasankar S. Dutta and Monpi Hazarika ','Optimization-of-Macro-propagation-of-Schizostachyum-dullooa-(Gamble)-through-Culm-Cuttings-Mohd-Ibrahim-48.pdf','',1,'Schizostachyum dullooa (Gamble) R.B. Majumdar is an important bamboo species, known for its long internodes and having wide applications in kite making, baskets, mats, small boxes, and other handicrafts. Optimization of vegetative propagation is needed for commercial production of quality planting material of the species. An experiment was performed to assess the rooting performance of S. dullooa at different levels of IBA concentration during the year 2021. Three different concentrations of IBA (200, 500 and 1000 ppm) mixed with talc powder were tested, along with a control. Analysis of the results reveals that the sprouting and rooting were significantly high, i.e., 92.50% and 86.66%, respectively, when treated with 1000 ppm IBA mixed with talc powder.','Schizostachyum dullooa, culm cutting, IBA, talc powder','The perusal of the study revealed that vegetative propagation of S. dullooa through culm cutting shows very good performance in terms of rooting and survival when treated with 1000 ppm of IBA mixed with talc powder and applied directly on the buds of the nodal region. The optimized method can be used for large-scale S. dullooa multiplication.','-','Mohd Ibrahim, Ritashree Khanikar, Sasankar S. Dutta and Monpi Hazarika (2024). Optimization of Macro-propagation of Schizostachyum dullooa (Gamble) through Culm Cuttings. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 16(1): 228-230.'),(8266,'170','Effect of Foliar Application of Plant Growth Regulators and Nutrients on Fruit Set and Quality of Acid Lime (Citrus aurantifolia Swingle)','Shrikunwar, Karan Vir Singh, Khusboo Namdev and Rajesh Lekhi ','Effect-of-Foliar-Application-of-Plant-Growth-Regulators-and-Nutrients-on-Fruit-Set-and-Quality-of-Acid-Lime-(Citrus-aurantifolia-Swingle)-Shrikunwar-81.pdf','',1,'A field experiment was carried out at Agro techno park, Krishi Vigyan Kendra, College of Agriculture, Gwalior (M.P.) during 2019-2020 and 2020-2021 under the agro-climatic conditions of Gwalior region. A total of 25 treatments were evaluated in a randomized block design in three replications. The objective of this work was to study about the effect of exogenous application of NAA, 2,4-D, urea and boron on fruit set, retention and yield. Keeping this view in mind, the present study set out to select the best treatment combinations of PGR’S and micro nutrients for increased fruit set and yield of acid lime. Variations in fruit set, retention and yield were recorded in two years among the treatments under the study. The fruit set percentage was highest in the treatment T19-Urea 2% + 2,4D 15ppm + NAA 20ppm + Boron 0.5% (64.76 %) which was significantly superior to all the treatments under study followed by the treatment T18 - Urea 2% + 2,4-D 15ppm + NAA10 ppm + Boron 1% (63.69%). Lowest fruit set percentage was recorded in Control. When compared to soil drenching foliar application is the most effective method of application of plant growth regulators and micronutrients.','Acid lime, 2,4-D, NAA, fruit set, yield, plant growth regulators and micronutrients','The result clearly indicates that the treatment combination T19-Urea 2% + 2,4-D 15ppm + NAA 20ppm + Boron 0.5% was found to be significantly superior to all the treatments under study and resulted in increased number of flowers per shoot at 30 days (68.33), 60 days (93.50) and 90 days (133.83) after flowering, number of fruits per shoot at 30 days (76.83), 60 days (72.00), 90 days (64.17) and 120 days (55.83) after fruit set, number of fruits per tree (956.50), average fruit weight (g) at harvest (32.92), yield per tree (kg) (31.49) and yield per hectare(q.) (349.90) compared to control. Hence this treatment combination will be very useful in minimizing the loss in yield and quality characters thereby helping farmers gain more returns on their crop.','-','Shrikunwar, Karan Vir Singh, Khusboo Namdev and Rajesh Lekhi (2023). Effect of Foliar Application of Plant Growth Regulators and Nutrients on Fruit Set and Quality of Acid Lime (Citrus aurantifolia Swingle). Biological Forum – An International Journal, 15(12): 440-444.'),(8267,'172','Taxonomic Studies of the Species Belenois aurota (Lepidoptera: Pieridae) from India','Manpreet Kaur, Jagbir Singh Kirti and Avtar Kaur Sidhu','Taxonomic-Studies-of-the-Species-Belenois-aurota-(Lepidoptera-Pieridae)-from-India-Manpreet-Kaur-49.pdf','',1,'In the present research work, the morphological features including genitalia and distribution of Belenois aurota (Fabricius) have been studied in detail. Klots (1931) studied the genitalia of Prioneris Wallace and mentioned its strong resemblance with the genitalia of Belenois Drury but there is no illustration and description of the male and female genitalia Belenois Drury. In this manuscript, the male genitalia of both the forms i.e. DSF and WSF and female genitalia of WSF of Belenois aurota (Fabricius) have been studied, illustrated and compared for the first time.','Belenois aurota, dry season form, wet season form, genitalia','Genus Belenois is one of the important group of butterflies under subfamily Pierinae. The species Belenois aurota has different seasonal forms which have been sorted on the basis of genitalic studies in the present work. The male genitalia of both the forms i.e. DSF and WSF and female genitalia of WSF of Belenois aurota (Fabricius) have been studied, illustrated and compared for the first time.','-','Manpreet Kaur, Jagbir Singh Kirti and Avtar Kaur Sidhu (2024). Taxonomic Studies of the Species Belenois aurota (Lepidoptera: Pieridae) from India. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 16(1): 231-238.'),(8268,'172','Identification of Suitable Solvent for Extraction of Principle Insecticidal compounds from Selected Medicinal and Aromatic Plants and Evaluation of their Efficacy against Plutella xylostella (L.)','Kamala Devappa Gaddennavar, Gangadhar Narabenchi, B.N. Maruthi Prasad and Jayashree Ugalat','Identification-of-Suitable-Solvent-for-Extraction-of-Principle-Insecticidal-compounds-from-Selected-Medicinal-and-Aromatic-Plants-and-Evaluation-of-their-Efficacy-against-Plutel-Kamala-Devappa-Gaddennavar-50.pdf','',1,'A laboratory experiment was carried out to identify a suitable solvent for extraction of principle insecticidal compounds from selected medicinal and aromatic plants. Further, these insecticidal compounds were evaluated for their efficacy against diamondback moth, Plutella xylostella (L.). Four different solvents such as methanol, chloroform, ethyl acetate and water were used to extract insecticidal compounds from the four plants namely, neem, pongemia, datura and bael. Based on the LC50 and LT50 values registered with four solvents and four plants, the order of suitability of solvent in extracting the insecticidal principle compounds from the plants is as follows; chloroform > aqueous > methanol > ethyl acetate. When the different plants are considered for their efficacy irrespective of the solvents used for extraction of insecticidal principle compounds from them, the order of effectiveness is as follows; neem > datura>bael>pongamia. ','DBM, solvents, LC50, LT50, medicinal and aromatic plants extract, bioassay, Soxhlet’s extractor and magnetic stirrer','Among the different solvents such as methanol, ethyl acetate, chloroform and water evaluated for their suitability in extracting maximum amount insecticidal compounds from test plants, the chloroform extract of neem seed kernels showed highest toxicity by registering lowest LC50 and LT50 values against early third instar larvae. Next best plants in the order of toxicity were seed extract of pongamia, leaf extract of datura and bael.\r\nIt can be concluded from the present investigation that, the chloroform extract found more suitable solvent in extracting maximum amount of insecticidal compounds from the medicinal and aromatic plants as that of other solvents tested.\r\n','-','Kamala Devappa Gaddennavar, Gangadhar Narabenchi, B.N. Maruthi Prasad and Jayashree Ugalat (2024). Identification of Suitable Solvent for Extraction of Principle Insecticidal compounds from Selected Medicinal and Aromatic Plants and Evaluation of their Efficacy Against Plutella xylostella (L.). Biological Forum – An International Journal, 16(1): 239-242.'),(8269,'172','Chemical Control of Colletotrichum gloeosporioides causing Twister Disease in Onion\r\n','Annapurna Gavireddy, S.B. Latake and V.S. Shinde','Chemical-Control-of-Colletotrichum-gloeosporioides-causing-Twister--S.B.-Latake-51.pdf','',1,'Twister disease caused by Colletotrichum gloeosporioides is an emerging threat to onion cultivation particularly during kharif season. Newer fungicides were evaluated for their efficacy against the pathogen. Under in vitro condition, though all the fungicides significantly inhibited the mycelial growth of pathogen, the combi-fungicide carbendazim 12% + mancozeb 63% WP @ 0.1% exhibited maximum inhibition (97.96 %) of mycelial growth of fungus C. gloeosporioides. Similarly, under field condition two foliar sprays of carbendazim 12% + mancozeb 63% @ 0.1% at 15 days interval recorded significant control of onion twister disease with least PDI (17.16). It was closely followed by tebuconazole 50% + trifloxystrobin 25% WG @ 0.2% (20.30 PDI) and metiram 55% + pyraclostrobin 5% WG @ 0.2% (26.80 PDI).','Onion, twister disease, Colletotrichum gloeosporioides, fungicides','The results of the study suggest that two foliar sprays of carbendazim 12% + mancozeb 63% WP @ 0.1% or tebuconazole 50% + trifloxystrobin 25% WG @ 0.2% or metiram 55% + pyraclostrobin 5% WG @ 0.2% concentration at 15 days interval could aid in effective management of the twister disease particularly in kharif season and subsequently reduces the yield losses.','-','Annapurna Gavireddy, S.B. Latake and V.S. Shinde (2024). Chemical Control of Colletotrichum gloeosporioides causing Twister Disease in Onion. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 16(1): 243-246.'),(8270,'156','Efficacy of Few Novel Insecticides in Controlling Shoot and Fruit borer, Leucinodes orbonalis Guenee Infesting Brinjal and Impact on it’s Natural Enemy (Trathala flavo-orbitalis)','Pramod Kumar Prusti, M.K. Tripathy, R. Mohapatra, R. Bhola, P. Tripathy and T. Khandaitaray','Efficacy-of-Few-Novel-Insecticides-in-Controlling-Shoot-and-Fruit-borer-Leucinodes-orbonalis-Guenee-Infesting-Brinjal-and-Impact-on-its-Natural-Enemy-(Trathala-flavo-orbitalis)-PRAMOD-KUMAR-PRUSTI-162.pdf','',1,'A field experiment was carried out during 2021-22 at the experimental farm of Department of Entomology, Odisha University of Agriculture and Technology (OUAT), Bhubaneswar to evaluate the efficacy of five insecticides and their sequential spraying. Altogether five sprays were given. The findings revealed that the insecticide spinetoram 11.7 SC was effective and significantly superior over other treatments in reducing the shoot and fruit borer infestation with least effect on natural enemy (Trathala flavo-orbitalis). This was followed by efficacy of flubendiamide 39.35 SC and chlorantraniliprole 18.5 SC for controlling Leucinodes orbonalis in brinjal. Spinetoram 11.7 SC, spinosad 45 SC and emamectin benzoate 5 SG are the best insecticides as far as their toxicity to natural enemy is concerned. Maximum benefit cost ratio was obtained from spinetoram11.7 SC (3.11) application followed by flubendiamide 39.35 SC (3.03). The net profit was highest (Rs. 1,75,667) in spinetoram 11.7 SC treated plot and lowest (Rs. 1,11,797) in emamectin benzoate 5 SG whereas Rs.73,217 in control plot.','Novel insecticide, Spinetoram, Efficacy, Brinjal shoot and fruit borer, Trathala flavo-orbitalis','Among the insecticides evaluated against brinjal shoot and fruit borer, spinetoram 11.7 SC applied at the dose of 500 ml/ha was found to be the most effective one in reducing the infestation of shoot and fruit borer in brinjal and increasing the yield. This was followed by flubendiamide 39.35 SC and Chlorantraniliprole 18.5 SC. Sequential spraying of insecticides was the next best followed by spinosad 45 SC. Emamectin benzoate 5 SG was recorded as the least effective among all the treatments. Spinetoram 11.7 SC was found as the safest insecticide to natural enemy Trathala flavo-orbitalis followed by spinosad 45 SC whereas flubendiamide 39.35 SC was found as the most unsafe to it.','-','Pramod Kumar Prusti, M.K. Tripathy, R. Mohapatra, R. Bhola, P. Tripathy and T. Khandaitaray (2023). Efficacy of Few Novel Insecticides in Controlling Shoot and Fruit borer, Leucinodes orbonalis Guenee Infesting Brinjal and Impact on it’s Natural Enemy (Trathala flavo-orbitalis). Biological Forum – An International Journal, 15(4): 989-995.'),(8271,'175','Analysis of Constraints Faced by the Agricultural Extension Personnel in the State of Andhra Pradesh and Suggestions to Improve their Managerial Abilities','V.K. Gogi Reddy, B.P. Mohapatra, Sarbani Das and R. Kishorekumar','Analysis-of-Constraints-Faced-by-the-Agricultural-Extension-Personnel-in-the-State-of-Andhra-Pradesh-and-Suggestions-to-Improve-their-Managerial-Abilities-VK-Gogi-Reddy-1.pdf','',1,'Present study was undertaken, to study the Constraints faced by the Agricultural Extension Personnel in the management of different activities of department and to seek their valuable suggestions based on practical experience to overcome the constraints for efficient and improved managerial abilities. Conducted in Andhra Pradesh State, Godavari Region. A total of 160 Agricultural Extension Personnel response collected. A total of 22 constraints were identified, which are further treated with Garette Mean Score and ranks are assigned under 3 categories. 8 constraints under Technical Category, 8 Under Administrative Category and 6 under Others Category and a total of 17 suggestions given by the agricultural Extension Personnel.','Agricultural Extension Personnel, Managerial Abilities, Garrett’s ranking technique, Constraints, Suggestions','From the study it found that a total of 22 constraints were identified, In Technical Constraints majorly 8 constraints are considered, they are Insufficient technical staff facility at ground level followed by lack of advanced laboratory and storage facilities non-availability of vehicle for extension work, Lack of Infrastructural facilities like computer, internet connection and printer to ground level staff, Technical issues with Applications, Network issues and bugs in software’s, No provision for distribution of farm mechanization tools on individual basis, Insufficient supply of inputs and subsidies and finally Insufficient training to improve the technical knowledge of staff. In Administrative Constraints majorly 8 constraints are considered, they are Lack of Administrative & auxiliary staff, Lack of meeting halls and residential accommodation, non-availability of funds at critical time and low budget allocations, Lack of authority to take decisions in critical time at ground level issues, More reporting time & Review meetings deteriorating quality work, Red-tapism caused due to unnecessary rules and regulations, Delay in policy making and decision implementation and Less number of administrative and soft skill training programmes. In Other Constraints majorly 6 constraints are considered, they are Excessive workload disturbing personal life, Personal targeting in the work-related issues, Lack of proper study at ground level before implementing a scheme or programme, High targets, short time deadlines with low staff facilities, Promotion policy issues, Political pressure.\r\nIt also revealed that, a total of 17 suggestions given by the agricultural Extension Personnel were identified, they are Recruitment of extra staff or provide apprentice like support through diploma and degree students, Increase the storage facilities and subsidies on location basis, Continuous capacity building training to conducted, Vehicle should be provided for extension works and also provision TA & DA, Arrangement of frequent ToT sessions with scientists, Provide more freedom of work and decentralized decision-making authority, No interference of political people in the duties for effectiveness of schemes, Minimize the unnecessary reporting time and review meeting to enhance quality work time, Fund allocation should be intime and sufficient, Decision and policy making with effective route mapping, location specific and prior to season, Workload should be minimized, Location based skill training should be given, Develop more user-friendly applications and resolve server issues, Job chart should be given for effective work and results, Establishment of vertical and horizontal communication, Maintenance of state level farmer database for future implications and Promotion should be given on seniority basis only.\r\n','-','V.K. Gogi Reddy, B.P. Mohapatra, Sarbani Das and R. Kishorekumar (2022). Analysis of Constraints Faced by the Agricultural Extension Personnel in the State of Andhra Pradesh and Suggestions to Improve their Managerial Abilities. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 14(5): 01-06.'),(8272,'172','Impact of Levels of Phosphorus and Sulphur on Yield and Economics of Wheat (Triticum aestivum L.) Crop','Deen Dayal Bairwa, Rajendra Prasad Meena, Mohan Lal Jat, Bhawani Singh Prajapat and J.M. Modhvadia','Impact-of-Levels-of-Phosphorus-and-Sulphur-on-Yield-and-Economics-of-Wheat-(Triticum-aestivum-L.)-Crop-Deen-Dayal-Bairwa-52.pdf','',1,'During the rabi season of 2015-16, a field experiment was carried out in Junagadh, Gujarat, on calcareous clayey soil to investigate the impact of phosphorus and sulphur levels on yield and economics of wheat (Triticum aestivum L.). In terms of available nutrients, the soil had low levels of nitrogen (242 kg ha-1), medium levels of phosphorus (39.20 kg ha-1), high levels of potash (292 kg ha-1), and medium levels of sulphur (19.05 ppm). Applying 90 kg P2O5 ha-1 (P3) produced maximum spike length (8.7 cm), number of spikelets spike-1 (15.9), grain yield (4451 kg ha-1), straw yield (6886 kg ha-1) and B: C ratio (2.08), which was found to be comparable to P2 (60 kg P2O5 ha-1). These experimental results were reported in the results of the study. Applying 40 kg S ha-1 was found to be equivalent to applying 20 kg S ha-1 and resulted in a significant increase in the number of spikelets spike-1 (15.8), spike length (8.6 cm), grain yield (4354 kg ha-1), straw yield (6809 kg ha-1) and B:C ratio of 2.00. Grain yield was significantly higher (4937 kg ha-1) with the combined application of 90 kg P2O5 ha-1 + 40 kg S ha-1 (P3S2) than with the control (P0S0).','Economics, yield, phosphorus, sulphur and interaction effect','Based on the findings of a year-long field study, it seems reasonable to conclude that irrigated wheat (GW 496) should be fertilized with 90 kg P2O5 ha-1 + 40 kg S ha-1 along with a nitrogen dose based on 120 kg N ha-1 in order to increase yield and net realization.','-','Deen Dayal Bairwa, Rajendra Prasad Meena, Mohan Lal Jat, Bhawani Singh Prajapat and J.M. Modhvadia (2024). Impact of Levels of Phosphorus and Sulphur on Yield and Economics of Wheat (Triticum aestivum L.) Crop. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 16(1): 247-250.'),(8273,'172','Trait Prioritization for Salt Tolerance from Physiological Traits on Lentil (Lens culinaris Medik.)','Pooja Kanwar Shekhawat, M.L. Jakhar, Jogendra Singh and Vijayata Singh','Trait-Prioritization-for-Salt-Tolerance-from-Physiological-Traits-on-Lentil-(Lens-culinaris-Medik.)-Vijayata-Singh-53.pdf','',1,'Lentil (Lens culinaris, Medik.), an economical and high-quality protein source for many, is susceptible to salt stress. When exposed to an electrical conductivity (EC) of up to 5 dS/m (~ 50 mM NaCl), it undergoes a notable yield reduction of about 90% compared to other crops. Identifying lentil germplasm with salinity tolerance is crucial for ensuring super-food production and sustaining the lentil industry. Evaluating diversity panels for their capacity to withstand salt stress conditions emerges as a primary approach for developing breeding lines and salt-tolerant varieties. In this investigation, 100 diverse lentil accessions were examined for photosynthetic traits under both control and saline condition (5 dS/m). A significant reduction (p < 0.05) was observed under salinity compared to the control. The stepwise regression approach revealed that E, gsw, iWUE, inWUE, Chlorophyll, RWC and MSI contribute critically to reducing salt stress. Nine clusters were formed using manhattan distance method and ward clustering method with highest number of genotypes (22) were found in cluster I followed by 15 (cluster VII), 12 (cluster IV), 10 (cluster III, V, VIII and IX), 7 (cluster VI) and 4 (cluster II). Different genotypes from various clusters can be used as parents in hybridization breeding programme to get trangressive segregants. This study contributes essential knowledge regarding how photosynthetic traits respond to salt stress in diverse lentil genotypes. The information acquired here will enhance our comprehension of photosynthetic alterations under salt stress.','Lentil, Salt Tolerance, Photosynthesis, Transpiration, Water use efficiency','The photosynthetic performance in lentils has not been previously assessed. In our current study, we observed that salinity significantly diminishes the activity of the photosynthetic apparatus, directly impacting yield negatively. In staple food crops, photosynthesis remains a plant trait with substantial potential for further improvement. Notably, efforts to enhance lentil crops have commenced with extensive measurements, but there is a need to enhance measurement throughput, covering plants from root to canopy, utilizing high throughput phenotyping facilities. The effectiveness of evaluating the fit of a multiple regression model can be gauged through the application of Mallows\' Cp Criterion, where a preference for smaller Cp values indicates lower levels of unexplained error.','-','Pooja Kanwar Shekhawat, M.L. Jakhar, Jogendra Singh and Vijayata Singh (2024). Trait Prioritization for Salt Tolerance from Physiological Traits on Lentil (Lens culinaris Medik.). Biological Forum – An International Journal, 16(1): 251-256.'),(8274,'148','Indian Bay Leaf (Cinnamomum tamala) – How to Protect the Tree Spice from the Ravages of Insect Pests and Diseases','Sabyasachi Ray, Debjeet Sharma and A. Banerjee','Indian-Bay-Leaf-(Cinnamomum-tamala)-–-How-to-Protect-the-Tree-Spice-from-the-Ravages-of-Insect-Pests-and-Diseases-Sabyasachi Ray-123.pdf','',1,'Indian bay leaf (Cinnamomum tamala) is a valuable tree spice of India known for its beautiful aroma and fragrance. The main economic portion of this tree spice is its leaves, so that direct damage in leaves causes direct economic loss in its production. Due to the lacking of detailed information regarding its pest scenario and scientific management, a review work has been done. The study reveals that cinnamon butterfly, different species of leaf miner, chafer beetle, gall mite and cinnamon shoot and leaf webber are the important pests of bay leaf whereas major diseases include leaf spot and dieback, grey leaf spot and blight and bark canker. The insect pests can be managed by different cultural practices like hand picking and destruction of the larvae and adult beetles, trapping with different traps and using different bio-control agents and bio-pesticides besides chemical insecticides. The diseases too can be brought under control by taking different non-chemical approaches like pruning of infected branches and destruction of diseased plant parts, balanced fertilizer application, using bio-agents other than synthetic fungicides.','Indian bay leaf, Insect pests, Diseases, Management','Studies on the seasonal incidence of the insect pests and diseases as well as their natural enemies present in bay leaf ecosystem in relation to the prevalent weather parameters can be done throughout the crop growing regions. Further investigation can be done to find out the best strategies for integrated pest management (IPM) and integrated disease management (IDM) for this tree spice. ','-','Sabyasachi Ray, Debjeet Sharma and A. Banerjee (2023). Indian Bay Leaf (Cinnamomum tamala) – How to Protect the Tree Spice from the Ravages of Insect Pests and Diseases. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 15(1): 747-754.'),(8275,'147','Effect of Micronutrients and Nanoparticles on Vegetative Growth of Anthurium Anthurium andraeanum cv. Xavia','Punyatoya Priyambada, Sashikala Beura and Prem Narayan Jagadev ','Effect-of-Micronutrients-and-Nanoparticles-on-Vegetative-Growth-of-Anthurium-Anthurium-andraeanum-cv.-Xavia-Punyatoya-Priyambada-146.pdf','',1,'Anthurium is the latest sensation of Indian floriculture scene and the genus Anthurium, with 700 species is largest genus of the family Araceae. Anthurium is an important tropical ornamental plant grown for its colourful spathe & attractive foliage. The study was plotted according to a Completely Randomized Design (CRD) with Duncan’s Multiple Range Test (DMRT). The experiment was conducted during the year 2018-2019 and 2021-2022 throughout the year under agroshadenet structure of RKVY Project on Anthurium, Department of Floriculture and Landscaping, Biotechnology-cum-Tissue Culture Centre, Orissa University of Agriculture and Technology (OUAT), Odisha. It has been concluded that the vegetative parameters of Anthurium andraeanum cv. Xavia, treatment T7 (ZnONPs@75ppm) significantly enhanced the Plant height (43.43 cm), Plant spread (46.13 cm), No. of suckers (3.56 nos.) and leaf petiole length (34.06 cm) in compare to other treatments.','Leaf Petiole length, Plant spread, Plant height and number of suckers','The Anthurium andraeanum cv. Xavia was significantly influenced on vegetative characteristics by application of various micro nutrients and nano particles. It is concluded that among various treatment, maximum plant height (43.43 cm), plant spread (46.13), no. of suckers (3.56 nos.) & leaf petiole length (34.6 cm.) was observed with i.e. Application of ZnO NPs @ 75 ppm. Whereas minimum plant height (33.28 cm), plant spread (39.08 cm), no. of suckers (1.28 nos.) & leaf petiole length (29.62 cm.) was recorded in T1 (Control). From the present investigation it is concluded that among 11 treatments foliar application of Zinc Oxide nanoparticles (ZnONPs) @ 75ppm was considered to be best for the Anthurium andraeanum cultivars Xavia in all aspects like vegetative parameters, Floral characteristics as well as postharvest life. The use of micronutrients and micronutrient-based nanoparticles in the plants reduces the dependency on chemical fertilizers, thereby, improving the soil health in addition to the producing a good crop.','-','Punyatoya Priyambada, Sashikala Beura and Prem Narayan Jagadev (2022). Effect of Micronutrients and Nanoparticles on Vegetative Growth of Anthurium Anthurium andraeanum cv. Xavia. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 14(4a): 848-851.'),(8276,'175','Effect of Different Levels of Nutrients (Nitrogen, Phosphorus, Potassium) on Vegetative Features of Jasmine (Jasminum sambac L. Aiton) during Summer Season','Subrat Kumar Senapati, Sashikala Beura, Ashish Kumar Gouda, Geeta Pandey and Kaberi Maharana','Effect-of-Different-Levels-of-Nutrients-(Nitrogen-Phosphorus-Potassium)-on-Vegetative-Features-of-Jasmine-(Jasminum-sambac-L.-Aiton)-during-Summer-Season-Sashikala-Beura-2.pdf','',1,'The present study \"Effect of Different levels of Nutrients (Nitrogen, Phosphorus, Potassium) on vegetative features of Jasmine (Jasminum sambac L. Aiton) during Summer Season\" was conducted in the last week of December 2021–November 2022 at the Educational Garden of the Department of Floriculture and Landscaping, College of Agriculture, O.U.A.T., Bhubaneswar. This experiment, which was adapted to RBD and triple replicated, included a total of nineteen treatments with different N, P and K fertilizer combinations (Kg/ha). Out of all the treatments, treatment T13 (N=100 kg/ha, P=120 kg/ha, and K=120 kg/ha) was determined to be the most fruitful in resulting luxuriant vegetative characteristics i.e. plant height (101.51 cm), East-West spreading (83.34 cm), North-South spreading (82.63cm), Leaf area (87.91 cm2), primary shoot length (182.86 cm), Primary shoot thickness (1.34 cm), Number of laterals (17.5). Therefore, it is advised that the jasmine crop in Odisha condition be fertilized with N=100 kg/ha, P=120 kg/ha, and K=120 kg/ha in order to achieve optimal vegetative development and yield qualities. ','Jasmine, NPK levels, Vegetative, Laterals, Leaf area','Based on the results of the experiment, treatment T13 (N=100Kg/ha, P=120 Kg/ha, K=120 Kg/ha) applied twice in split doses as 50 Kg N/ha, 60Kg K/ha, 100 Kg P/ha in basal dose and rest 50 Kg N/ha, 60Kg K/ha in top dressing was proved to be more efficient in boosting various vegetative characteristics. In order to achieve luxuriant yield in jasmine under Odisha conditions, it has been recommended that fertilizer doses of N = 100 kg/ha, P = 120 kg/ha, and K = 120 kg/ha in the form of urea, SSP, and MOP be applied. This recommendation will address the long-standing issues with fertilizer application in jasmine for high flower bud production in Odisha. Hence, it has been recommended that fertilizer dose of N=100Kg/ha, P=120 Kg/ha, K=120 Kg/ha in the form of urea, SSP and MOP produced luxuriant yield in Jasmine under Odisha condition and this recommendation will solve the long awaiting problems of fertilizer application in jasmine for high flower bud production in Odisha.','-','Subrat Kumar Senapati, Sashikala Beura, Ashish Kumar Gouda, Geeta Pandey and Kaberi Maharana (2022). Effect of Different Levels of Nutrients (Nitrogen, Phosphorus, Potassium) on Vegetative Features of Jasmine (Jasminum sambac L. Aiton) during Summer Season. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 14(5): 07-11.'),(8277,'170','Effect of Packaging Materials and Storage Conditions on Seed Germination and Viability in Gaillardia Seeds, (Gaillardia pulchella Foug.)','Muchapothula Tejaswi, G. Jyothi, P. Prasanth, K. Venkatalaxmi and S. Praneeth Kumar ','Effect-of-Packaging-Materials-and-Storage-Conditions-on-Seed-Germination-and-Viability-in-Gaillardia-Seeds-(Gaillardia-pulchella-Foug.)-Muchapothula-Tejaswi-82.pdf','',1,'An experiment was carried out at, College of Horticulture, Sri Konda Laxman Telangana State Horticultural University, Rajendranagar, Hyderabad, to assess the “Effect of packaging materials and storage conditions on seed germination and viability of gaillardia seeds (Gaillardia pulchella Foug.)”. The experiment was laid out in a Factorial Completely Randomized Design (FCRD) with twelve treatments and three replications. The treatments consist of two levels of conditions viz., A1: Cold storage A2: Ambient condition with six different packaging materials viz., B1: Glass jar, B2: Air tight plastic box, B3: Aluminum foil, B4: Zip lock bag, B5: LDPE polythene bag (200 gauge), B6: LDPE Polythene bag (400gauge). The results revealed that the treatment combination of T3- A1B3- cold storage + Aluminium foil recorded maximum seed viability, (%) seed germination (%) percentage, seedling length (cm), seedling vigour index, field emergence percentage, and minimum EC, less no. of days to germination and followed by T6- A1B6- cold storage + LDPE (400) gauge. While the minimum seed viability was recorded in the T8- A2B2- ambient storage + Plastic box.','Gaillardia seeds, Electric conductivity, seed germination percentage, seed viability, seedling length, seedling vigour index, field emergence percentage','It can be concluded from the present investigation that among the two storage conditions, cold condition (A1) and ambient condition (A2) the best results were observed in cold condition (A1) in seed viability (81.28 %, 75.24 %), electrical conductivity (0.94 dsm-1, 1.01 dsm-1), germination percentage (79.17%, 75.80 %), seedling length (17.18 cm, 14.86 cm), field emergence (68.25 %, 65.79 %), seedling vigour index (1330.31, 1128.42) at 0 days and 90 days of storage respectively.\r\nAmong the different packaging materials the maximum results were observed in the aluminum foil (B3) in seed viability (85.26 %, 77.59 %), electrical conductivity (0.90 dsm-1, 0.99 dsm-1), germination percentage (82.13 %, 78.72 %), seedling length (17.97 cm, 16.41 cm), field emergence (70.04 %, 66.67 %), seedling vigour index (1454.15, 1291.95) at 0 days and 90 days of storage respectively. The minimum results were observed in the air tight plastic box (B2) in seed viability (76.97 %, 72.44 %), electrical conductivity (0.95 dsm-1, 1.12 dsm-1), germination percentage (75.73 %, 72.59 %), seedling length (16.61 cm, 13.08 cm), field emergence (66.88 %, 63.38 %), seedling vigour index (1256.39, 949.65) at 0 days and 90 days of storage respectively.\r\nAmong the interactions the effect of seed physiological parameters and seedling parameters due to storage conditions and packaging materials differed non-significantly. \r\n','-','Muchapothula Tejaswi, G. Jyothi, P. Prasanth, K. Venkatalaxmi and S. Praneeth Kumar (2023). Effect of Packaging Materials and Storage Conditions on Seed Germination and Viability in Gaillardia Seeds, (Gaillardia pulchella Foug.). Biological Forum – An International Journal, 15(12): 445-453.'),(8278,'159','Identification of Fungal Species from Remote Places of Vindhyachal Forest of Madhya Pradesh for Biological Control of Early Blight','Omshri Singh and Deepak Bharti','Identification-of-Fungal--Species-from-Remote-Places-of-Vindhyachal-Forest-of--Madhya-Pradesh-for-Biological-Control-of-Early-Blight-Omshri-Singh-123.pdf','',1,'The main goal was to find potential biological control agents for Early Blight, a disease that commonly affects potato and tomato crops. By studying the microbial diversity in these fields, researchers hoped to find environmentally friendly and sustainable solutions for managing this disease. We have collected samples of soil from the rhizosphere (the region of soil directly influenced by root secretions and associated soil microorganisms) and plant root materials as rhizoplane (the surface of a plant root) during October and November 2021. These samples were then serially diluted and streaked over Potato Dextrose Agar media plates, a common method used for the isolation of fungi. The cultured fungi were further analyzed using molecular techniques, specifically Polymerase Chain Reaction (PCR) and sequencing of the Internal Transcribed Spacer (ITS) region. This region is a universally accepted region of fungal DNA for species identification.\r\nThe study reported the presence of several important fungi, including Trichoderma species, Penicillium sp. Phytophthora infestans, Fusarium oxysporum, Pyrenochaeta lycopersici, Aspergillus flavus, Collectotrichum spp., Cladosporium cladosporioides, Periconia byssoides, Aspergillus tamarii, and Fusarium sp. Some fungi among all are known to play a crucial role in the development of healthy plants and protection of potato and tomato plants from other pathogens. This study contributes to our understanding of the microbial diversity in the Vindhyachal forest and its potential use in the biological control of plant diseases. It’s a significant step towards sustainable and environmentally friendly farming practices.\r\n','Biological Control, Early Blight, Fungal species, Molecular identification, ITS region','The study reported the presence of several important fungi, including Trichoderma species, Penicillium sp., Phytophthora infestans, Fusarium oxysporum, Pyrenochaeta lycopersici, Aspergillus flavus, Collectotrichum spp., Cladosporium cladosporioides, Periconia byssoides, Aspergillus tamarii, and Fusarium sp. Some of these fungi are known to play a crucial role in the development of healthy plants and protection of potato and tomato plants from other pathogens. This study contributes significantly to our understanding of the microbial diversity in the Vindhyachal forest and its potential use in the biological control of plant diseases. ','-','Omshri Singh and Deepak Bharti (2023). Identification of Fungal Species from Remote Places of Vindhyachal Forest of Madhya Pradesh for Biological Control of Early Blight. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 15(6): 801-804.'),(8279,'169','Assessment of Micronutrients Status and Soil Fertility Mapping in Arecanut and Black Pepper Growing Areas in Hulekal Hobli of Sirsi Talku, Uttara Kannada District','Rakesh M. Satagond, Shivakumar K.M., Sayeed Almas R. Mulla, Shankar Meti and Prashanth A.','Assessment-of-Micronutrients-Status-and-Soil-Fertility-Mapping-in-Arecanut-and-Black-Pepper-Growing-Areas-in-Hulekal-Hobli-of-Sirsi-Talku-Uttara-Kannada-District-Rakesh-M-Satagond-110.pdf','',1,'The deficiency of nutrient elements and imbalanced nutrient management practices in agricultural soils is one of the reasons for low crop productivity and reduced nutritional quality of crop produce. The present study was carried out to assess the micronutrients status and to prepare soil fertility map of Arecanut and Black pepper growing areas at Hulekal hobli of Sirsi taluk. The Hulekal hobli has a total land holding of 42,398.31 ha, of which 25,395.92 ha (59.90%) is cultivatable land and 17,002.39 ha (40.10 %) is forest area. Altogether, 180 surface soil samples (0-20 cm) were collected from arecanut and black pepper cultivated areas of Hulekal hobli and were analyzed for micronutrients Fe, Mn, Zn and Cu and prepare the soil fertility maps through GIS using Kriging method. The results revealed that, The DTPA extractable micronutrients like iron (Fe), manganese (Mn), copper (Cu) found sufficient level (59.90 %). The DTPA extractable micronutrient zinc (Zn) was found deficient (38.60 %) in majority of the arecanut and black pepper garden fields. Therefore, the study reported that, the arecanut and black pepper growing area of Hulekal hobli were found high in iron (Fe), manganese (Mn) and copper (Cu) micronutrients with the exception of Zn, which found deficient in majority of study area. Hence there is a need of proper micronutrient management practices to achieve sustainable areaca and spice production.','Arecanut and Black pepper, Micronutrients status, soil fertility mapping, Srisi taluk and GIS','It was observed from present study that, the Arecanut and Black Pepper growing area soils of Hulekal hobli were found to be sufficient iron (Fe), manganese (Mn) and copper (Cu) micronutrients with the exception of Zn, which found deficient. Hence, there is a need of proper balanced micro nutrient application is require to achieve sustainable areaca and spice production in the study area.','-','Rakesh M. Satagond, Shivakumar K.M., Sayeed Almas R. Mulla, Shankar Meti and Prashanth A. (2023). Assessment of Micronutrients Status and Soil Fertility Mapping in Arecanut and Black Pepper Growing Areas in Hulekal Hobli of Sirsi Talku, Uttara Kannada District. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 15(11): 616-621.'),(8280,'172','Economic Evaluations of Short Duration Coarse Rice under Direct Seeded and Transplanted Conditions with Different Doses of Nitrogen Fertilizer','Ravi, O.P. Lathwal, A.K. Dhaka, J.M. Sutaliya, R.S. Garhwal, Kamal, Pradeep Kumar and Pardeep Phogat ','Economic-Evaluations-of-Short-Duration-Coarse-Rice-under-Direct-Seeded-and-Transplanted-Conditions-with-Different-Doses-of-Nitrogen-Fertilizer-Ravi-54.pdf','',1,'During the kharif season of 2020, a field experiment was conducted at the farm of College of Agriculture, Kaul (Kaithal) of CCS Haryana Agricultural University, Hisar. The main objective of the experiment was to examine how a short-duration non-scented rice variety named HKR-48 responded to nitrogen fertilization under two different crop establishment methods. The experiment utilized a randomized block design (RBD) factorial design, with the two establishment methods (direct seeding and transplanting) as the main plot treatments, and six levels of nitrogen (0, 30, 60, 90, 120, and 150 kg/ha) as the sub-plot treatments, with three replications. The results showed that the transplanted crop exhibited significantly higher grain yield and straw yield compared to the direct-seeded crop, with rise of 11.9% and 5% respectively. Although the cost of the transplanted crop was 21.6% higher, the 11% increase in gross returns compensated for it, resulting in equal net returns between the two establishment methods. Increasing the nitrogen dose from the control to 150 kg N/ha significantly improved grain and straw yield, but there were no significant differences between the doses of 120 and 150 kg N/ha. With each additional nitrogen application over the control, there was a gradual increase in gross returns, net returns, and benefit-cost ratio.','Rice, Nitrogen, DSR, TPR, Economics, B:C','The rice variety HKR-48 demonstrated superior performance when transplanted instead of directly seeded. Transplanted crop exhibited a notable increase in grain yield (11.9%) and straw yield (5%) compared to directly seeded crop. Despite the higher cultivation cost associated with transplanting (21.6% higher), the 11% higher gross return offset the difference, resulting in equivalent net returns for both establishment methods. The application of increasing nitrogen doses from the control to 150 kg N/ha had a significant positive impact on grain and straw yield. However, there were no significant differences between the yields obtained with 120 kg N/ha and 150 kg N/ha.','-','Ravi, O.P. Lathwal, A.K. Dhaka, J.M. Sutaliya, R.S. Garhwal, Kamal, Pradeep Kumar and Pardeep Phogat (2024). Economic Evaluations of Short Duration Coarse Rice under Direct Seeded and Transplanted Conditions with Different Doses of Nitrogen Fertilizer. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 16(1): 257-259.'),(8281,'172','Exploring Genetic Variability, Correlation, and Path Coefficient Assessment for Yield and its Attributing Traits in Summer Green Gram (Vigna radiata L.): Insights into Crop Improvement','Thanniru Bhavya Sri, I.R. Delvadiya, Murakonda Sai Dinesh and A.V. Ginoya','Exploring-Genetic-Variability-Correlation-and-Path-Coefficient-Assessment-for-Yield-and-its-Attributing-Traits-in-Summer-Green-Gram-(Vigna-radiata-L.)-Insights-into-Crop-Improvement-Thanniru-Bhavya-Sri-55.pdf','',1,'An experiment was laid out on green gram to study the genetic variability among the yield and yield contributing characters was conducted at the research farm of Lovely Professional University, Phagwara during the summer season of 2022. The experiment followed a Randomized Complete Block Design with three replications. Morphological traits were recorded from five random plants selected from each recombinant genotype in each replication. Analysis of Variance revealed a highly significant difference among the genotypes for all the traits. Conversely, low genetic variability was observed in traits such as days to maturity, Pod length, and days to fifty percent flowering. Heritability estimates based on broad sense were highest for plant height, 100 Seed Weight, Number of Pods per Plant, Number of Seeds per Pod, and Number of Primary Branches per plant. Genetic advance as a percentage of the mean at a selection intensity of five percent was high for the traits Number of Pods per Plant, Number of Seeds per Pod, 100 Seed Weight, Number of Primary Branches per plant, and Seed Yield per Plant. The combination of heritability estimates and genetic advance indicated the influence of additive gene action. Based on the findings of this study, the inbred lines MGG-336, MGG-351, MGG-348, and Vijetha SRPM-26 were identified as superior genotypes in terms of yield attributing traits. ','Greengram, Variability, Correlation, Path coefficient','In conclusion, the research conducted on green gram genotypes revealed significant genetic variability among yield and yield-contributing traits. The study highlighted traits with high heritability and genetic advance, indicating the potential for genetic improvement through selection. Notably, certain genotypes like MGG-336, MGG-351, MGG-348, and Vijetha SRPM-26 exhibited superior attributes in terms of yield. The findings contribute to understanding the genetic basis of green gram traits, providing valuable insights for crop improvement strategies. Further exploration of the genetic interactions underlying yield traits could enhance breeding programs aimed at enhancing green gram productivity and resilience.','-','Thanniru Bhavya Sri, I.R. Delvadiya, Murakonda Sai Dinesh and A.V. Ginoya (2024). Exploring Genetic Variability, Correlation, and Path Coefficient Assessment for Yield and its Attributing Traits in Summer Green Gram (Vigna radiata L.): Insights into Crop Improvement. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 16(1): 260-264.'),(8282,'172','Effect of Organic Manures on Growth and Yield Attributes of Finger Millet','Chaudhari A.K., Shroff J.C., Patel Hardik, Prajapati Mansi and Shah S.N.','Effect-of-Organic-Manures-on-Growth-and-Yield-Attributes-of-Finger-Millet-Chaudhari-AK-56.pdf','',1,'An experiment was conducted during the 2022 Kharif season at the College Agronomy Farm, B.A. College of Agriculture, Anand Agricultural University, Anand. The soil of the experimental plot was identified as loamy sand, exhibiting good drainage with a pH of 7.79. Soil analysis indicated low levels of available nitrogen (210 kg/ha), while organic carbon (0.73%), available phosphorus (31 kg/ha), and available potash (280 kg/ha) were at medium levels. Ten treatments were evaluated, incorporating various components such as Farmyard manure, Vermicompost, Jeevamrit, Vermiwash, and Bio-NP Consortium in different combinations and compositions, employing a randomized block design with four replications. The application of 25% N through FYM + 50% N through Vermicompost + Bio-NP Consortium significantly enhanced plant height to 101.52 cm and 112.52 cm at 60 DATP and at harvest, respectively. It also resulted in an increased effective number of tillers per meter row length (25.25), length of finger (9.75 cm), number of fingers per ear head (8.05), grain yield (3032 kg/ha), and straw yield (5862 kg/ha). Moreover, higher net profit and BCR in finger millet were observed with this application method (T6). These research findings can assist growers in achieving better and more sustainable finger millet production, thereby enhancing its acceptability among end-users due to its organic cultivation. Additionally, it can aid producers in obtaining better prices and contribute to the economic upliftment of farmers.','Organic Manures, Finger millet, Farm yard manure, Vermicompost, Jeevamrit, Vermiwash, Bio-NP Consortium, Nitrogen','According to the findings of the present study, the application of 25% N through FYM + 50% N through Vermicompost and Bio-NP Consortium, as well as 25% N through FYM + 50% N through Vermicompost + Vermiwash or 25% N through FYM + 50% N through Vermicompost + Jeevamrit, and 50% N through FYM + 25% N through Vermicompost + Bio-NP Consortium, resulted in increased yield and improved quality. However, higher net realization was achieved with 25% N through FYM + 50% N through Vermicompost and Bio-NP Consortium, 25% N through FYM + 50% N through Vermicompost + Vermiwash, and 50% N through FYM + 25% N through Vermicompost and Bio-NP Consortium. The maximum benefit-cost ratio was observed under the application of 25% N through FYM + 50% N through Vermicompost and Bio-NP Consortium.','-','Chaudhari A.K., Shroff J.C., Patel Hardik, Prajapati Mansi and Shah S.N. (2024). Effect of Organic Manures on Growth and Yield Attributes of Finger Millet. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 16(1): 265-270.'),(8283,'169','Engineering Properties of Fenugreek','Kalluri Praveen, Atul Kumar Shrivastava, Manish Patel and Kunal Bhelave ','Engineering-Properties-of-Fenugreek-Kalluri-Praveen-111.pdf','',1,'This study addresses the critical need for engineering properties essential in the design of agricultural machinery related to fenugreek cultivation, such as sowing machines, weeders, machinery related to fenugreek plant, and post-harvesting equipment. The research, conducted at the College of Agricultural Engineering, JNKVV, Jabalpur, focuses on gathering information about the engineering properties of fenugreek plants. The frictional properties of fenugreek were explored, revealing an angle of repose at 55.22°, an average angle of internal friction of 42°, and an average static coefficient of friction of 0.89. Additionally, the mechanical property of fenugreek, specifically the cutting force, was quantified at 0.686 N. These findings contribute valuable insights into the mechanical behaviour of fenugreek, providing essential data for the design and optimization of agricultural machinery tailored to fenugreek cultivation.','Engineering properties, agricultural machinery, Fenugreek','In conclusion, this study delves into the engineering properties of fenugreek leaves, shedding light on both frictional and mechanical characteristics. The investigation revealed specific frictional properties, showcasing an angle of repose at 55.22°, an average angle of internal friction of 42°, and an average static coefficient of friction amounting to 0.89. Complementing these findings, the mechanical property analysis focused on the cutting force, which was quantified at 0.686 N. These results provide valuable insights into the behavior of fenugreek leaves, offering essential data for the design and optimization of processes and equipment within the agricultural and food industries. The comprehension of these engineering properties not only contributes to the scientific understanding of fenugreek but also holds practical implications for enhancing the efficiency, safety, and overall performance of related technologies and applications.','-','Kalluri Praveen, Atul Kumar Shrivastava, Manish Patel and Kunal Bhelave (2023). Engineering Properties of Fenugreek. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 15(11): 622-626.'),(8284,'170','Histo-chemical Variation in the Mammary Gland of Sheep (Ovis aries) and Goat (Capra hircus)','Shilpa S. Modekar and Laxmanan Ruchika','Histo-chemical-Variation-in-the-Mammary-Gland-of-Sheep-(Ovis-aries)-and-Goat-(Capra-hircus)-Shilpa-S-Modekar-83.pdf','',1,'The present study was carried out to understand the histo-chemical aspect and differences if any, present in the mammary gland of sheep and goat to investigate the variation present if any in the two species. The observations recorded showed, that in the present study, lamina propria of ducts, basement membrane of the alveoli, alveolar and ductal secretions as well as corpora amylacea were strongly positive for PAS, in both the species. The alveolar secretions and lamina propria of ducts were even seen to be very strongly positive for proteins in both the sheep as well as goat. Strong positive reaction for proteins was noted in blood vessels and corpora amylacea. The alveoli present in the mammary gland of both sheep and goat, showed homogenous fat droplets, within the lumen. However, the calcium deposits were also noted in the lumen of some alveoli and in the lumen of few ducts in the lactating gland and more number in non-lactating stages of the mammary gland in both the species.','Mammary gland, Teats, Muco-polysaccharides, Proteins, Fats','Various modifications which occur in the mammary gland throughout the lactation period in production animals, particularly in the small ruminants, sheep (Ovis aries) and goat (Capra hircus) will serve as a tool to understand its functionality as a milk production organ. The progressive increase in the importance of small ruminants in milk production, it is very essential to understand the modification pattern of mammary gland. It is very essential to improve dairy production, which can definitely achieved by understanding the changes in histo-chemical composition of various structures in the mammary gland throughout lactation.','-','Shilpa S. Modekar and Laxmanan Ruchika (2023). Histo-chemical Variation in the Mammary Gland of Sheep (Ovis aries) and Goat (Capra hircus). Biological Forum – An International Journal, 15(12): 454-456.'),(8285,'172','Performance of Semi Rabi Sesame to Different Sowing Windows and Nutrient Levels under Central Vidharbha Region','N.D. Chavhan, A.A. Choudhary, T. Lokesh and T.R. Marthe ','Performance-of-Semi-Rabi-Sesame-to-Different-Sowing-Windows-and-Nutrient-Levels-under-Central-Vidharbha-Region-ND-Chavhan-57.pdf','',1,'A field experiment was conducted during semi rabi season of 2022-23 at Agronomy Farm, College of Agriculture, Nagpur, to study the effect of different sowing windows and nutrient levels on growth, yield and economics of semi rabi sesame under Central Vidharbha Region with two factors viz., four sowing windows [D1 (35th MW), D2 (36th MW), D3 (37th MW) and D4 (38th MW)] and three nutrient levels [N1 (75% RDF), N2 (100% RDF) and N3 (125% RDF)] with twelve treatment combinations. Crop sown during 35th MW (27th Aug- 2nd Sept) recorded significantly highest plant height, number of branches plant-1, dry matter accumulation plant-1, number of capsule plant-1, seed yield plant-1, seed and straw yield (kg ha-1). It also recorded highest gross as well as net monetary return and B:C ratio. Application of 125% RDF (31.25:31.25 Kg N:P ha-1) recorded highest values of all the growth and yield contributing characters. Similarly, significantly higher values of gross and net monetary return and B:C ratio were recorded with application of 125% RDF as compare to 75% and 100% RDF.','Semi rabi sesame, sowing windows, nutrient levels','Sowing window of 35th MW (27th Aug- 2nd Sept) resulted in higher growth and yield of semi rabi sesame compared to later sowing windows during semi rabi season. Application of 125% RDF recorded higher growth and yield attributes than other lower nutrient level, 125% RDF recorded higher grain and straw yield ha-1.\r\nSowing window of 35th MW (27th Aug - 2nd Sept) recorded highest gross monetary returns, net monetary returns and B:C ratio. Similarly, application of 125% RDF (31.25:31.25 Kg N:P ha-1) recorded highest gross monetary returns, net monetary returns and B:C ratio in semi rabi sesame.\r\n','-','N.D. Chavhan, A.A. Choudhary, T. Lokesh and T.R. Marthe (2024). Performance of Semi Rabi Sesame to Different Sowing Windows and Nutrient Levels under Central Vidharbha Region. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 16(1): 271-273.'),(8286,'169','Estimation of Growth Curve Parameters using Non-Linear Growth Curve Models in Sonadi Sheep','Shyam Singh Lakhawat and S.P. Tailor','Estimation-of-Growth-Curve-Parameters-using-Non-Linear-Growth-Curve-Models-in-Sonadi-Sheep-Shyam-Singh-Lakhawat-112.pdf','',1,'The present investigation was undertaken to estimate the effect of different non-genetic factors affecting the growth performance traits of Sonadi sheep. The detailed information of 1396 Sonadi sheep regarding growth performance traits maintained over the period of 2019-2023 under the Mega Sheep Seed Project (ICAR) at College of Veterinary and Animal Science, Navania, Vallabhnagar, Udaipur district of Rajasthan was collected. The various growth performance traits like body weight, relative growth rate (RGR) and growth efficiency (GE) were studied and data\'s were classified into different groups (year of birth, season of birth, sex of animal and type of lambing) for different traits (BWT, 3WT, 6WT, 9WT, 12WT, 0-3, 3-6, 6-9, 9-12, 0-3, 3-6, 6-9, and 9-12) under investigation. Lambings were categorized into three seasons as monsoon, winter and summer lambing season. On the basis of year data was categorized into eight categories and coding from 1-8. The data related to gender of lamb was classified according to male and female and coded as 1 and 2, respectively while according to type of lambing, data was categorized into 2 categories i.e. single and twin and coded as 1 for single and 2 for twin. The data was analyzed using one two data set namely body weight and relative growth rate and growth efficiency. The effects of different non-genetic factors on the different body measurement were estimated through least square analysis method of Harvey (1990) software. The effects of different non-genetic factors on the growth performance were calculated from the general linear model.','RGR Sheep Seed, Sonadi Sheep','To determine the impact of various non-genetic factors impacting the growth performance features of Sonadi sheep, the current inquiry, named \"Studies on growth performance traits of Sonadi sheep at farm condition\", was conducted. The comprehensive data on 1396 Sonadi sheep\'s growth performance attributes was kept between 2019 and 2023 as part of the Mega Sheep Seed Project (ICAR) at the College of Veterinary and Animal Sciences in Navania, Vallabhnagar, Udaipur (Rajasthan).\r\nThe present experiment was conducted to study the growth performance of Sonadi sheep in terms of body weights, relative growth rate and growth efficiency along with the study of effect of non-genetic factors on growth related traits of Sonadi sheep at an organized farm. The various growth performance traits like body weight, relative growth rate (RGR) and growth efficiency (GE) were studied after that data was classified into different groups (year of birth, season of birth, sex of animal and type of lambing) for different traits i.e., BWT, 3WT, 6WT, 9WT, 12WT, RGR1 (0-3), RGR2 (3-6), RGR3 (6-9), RGR4 (9-12), GE1 (0-3), GE2 (3-6), GE3 (6-9), and GE4 (9-12) under investigation.\r\n','-','Shyam Singh Lakhawat and S.P. Tailor (2023). Estimation of Growth Curve Parameters using Non-Linear Growth Curve Models in Sonadi Sheep. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 15(11): 627-632.'),(8287,'170','Biosynthesis, Characterization and Application of Silver Nanoparticle (Ag NPs) to Enhance Seed Quality: A Review','Wankhade N.J., Shelar V.R., Bhalerao B.M., Karjule A.P. and Jadhav V.B. ','Biosynthesis-Characterization-and-Application-of-Silver-Nanoparticle-(Ag-NPs)-to-Enhance-Seed-Quality-A-Review-Wankhade-NJ-84.pdf','',1,'Nanoparticles are microscopic fragments with a nanoscale dimension ranging from 1-100 nm, with excellent thermal conductivity, catalytic reactivity, nonlinear optical performance, and chemical stability due to their enormous surface area-to-volume ratio. Nanoparticles can be synthesized utilizing several processes, including chemical, physical, and biological. However, the chemical and physical methods used are costly, complex, and possibly harmful to the environment because of the toxic chemical compounds utilized as reducing agents. The synthesis of nanoparticles using green approaches may be easily scaled up, and they are also cost-effective. Because of their superior qualities, greenly coordinated nanoparticles are currently preferred over traditionally delivered NPs. Green synthesis approaches are particularly appealing due to their ability to reduce toxicity of nanoparticles. As a consequence, the usage of vitamins, amino acids, and plant extracts has become more common. Capping and reducing agents play a key role in nanoparticle synthesis while harmful and highly poisonous compounds are utilized in the chemical and physical methods which may cause environmental problems. The reducing or capping agents are costly which employed in chemical and physical procedures. The nanoparticles as a seed treatment can improve germination, increases seedling length, vigour, viability and improve seed quality. The present review is an attempt to summarize and assess the prospects of silver nanoparticles (Ag NPs) as an alternative approach to improving seed quality through biosynthesized nanoparticles.','Nanoparticles, green synthesis, germination, vigour, viability and seed quality','The present review focused on biosynthesis utilizing leaf extract, characterisation of silver nanoparticles, and the effect of silver nanoparticles on seed quality parameters. It is believed that many natural chemicals found in plant extracts work as reducing and stabilizing agents during the synthesis of silver nanoparticles. AgNPs increase the activity of antioxidant enzymes such as catalase, peroxidase, and ascorbate peroxidase, as well as glutathione and ascorbate levels in seeds and crop plants. As a result, green-mediated silver nanoparticles have various advantages, including improved germination percentage, root-shoot length, dry matter content, net photosynthesis, growth, yield, lower electrical conductivity, and reduced microbial infection, etc. Another advantage is that silver nanoparticles are environmentally friendly and cost-effective, resulting in an assumption that they will play an important role in seed science technology for quality enhancement in the future.','-','Wankhade N.J., Shelar V.R., Bhalerao B.M., Karjule A.P. and Jadhav V.B. (2023). Biosynthesis, Characterization and Application of Silver Nanoparticle (Ag NPs) to Enhance Seed Quality: A Review. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 15(12): 457-469.'),(8288,'159','The Effect of Solvents Water, Ethanol, Methanol and Acetone on the Morphological and Optical Properties of ZnO Nanoparticles Synthesized by using Green Method','Chaudhari L.V. and Gulwade D.P.','The-Effect-of-Solvents-Water-Ethanol-Methanol-and-Acetone-on-the-Morphiological-and-Optical-Properties-of-ZnO-Nanoparticles-Synthesized-by-using-Green-Method-Chaudhari-LV-124.pdf','',1,'Zinc oxide (ZnO) nanoparticles were produced using environmentally friendly and cost-effective methods, involving solvents with varying polarities. Throughout the experimentation, certain factors such as temperature, concentration, time, and pH were kept constant, while solvents like water, ethanol, methanol, and acetone were changed. The resulting particles underwent a series of characterization techniques, including X-ray diffraction (XRD), scanning electron microscopy (SEM), Fourier transform infrared (FTIR) analysis, UV-visible absorption spectroscopy, and assessment of antibacterial properties. The XRD and SEM analyses confirmed ZnO nanoparticle formation. The size of the ZnO nanoparticles varied depending on the solvent used, with average crystallite sizes of 51.32nm, 81.94nm, 43.71nm, and 95.34nm achieved using water, ethanol, methanol, and acetone, respectively. The nanoparticles that were prepared demonstrated notable antibacterial activity against a range of microorganisms. It is noteworthy that the presence of hydroxyl groups in water and ethanol had a significant impact on the entire process, including the nucleation, growth, and termination of the nanoparticles. This interaction resulted in the formation of non-spherical particle shapes. From the analysis of the results, it is evident that the choice of solvents in this study played a critical role in determining the surface structure, structural characteristics, and optical properties of the ZnO nanoparticles.','Zinc oxide, UV-visible, SEM, XRD, FTIR, nanoparticles','In this study, we successfully synthesized ZnO nanoparticles using four distinct solvents: ethanol, methanol, acetone, and water. The structural characterization revealed the crystalline nature of ZnO nanoparticles in the wurtzite phase. Notably, ZnO nanoparticles synthesized with water and methanol demonstrated a smaller crystallite size compared to those synthesized with ethanol and acetone. The UV-visible characterization indicated that the choice of solvent had minimal impact on the band gap, refractive index, and electron polarizability of ZnO nanoparticles. This suggests that the optical properties of ZnO nanoparticles remain relatively unaffected by the solvent used in the synthesis process. Our findings highlight the potential utility of ZnO nanoparticles in various optical devices.','-','Chaudhari L.V. and Gulwade D.P. (2023). The Effect of Solvents Water, Ethanol, Methanol and Acetone on the Morphiological and Optical Properties of ZnO Nanoparticles Synthesized by using Green Method. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 15(6): 805-809.'),(8289,'174','A Study on Awareness about Cyber Security Among the Female University Students','Krutika Bhate','A Study on Awareness about Cyber Security Among the Female University Students-Krutika Bhate-3.pdf','',1,'All are vulnerable to cyber-attacks on essential infrastructure. Individually, cyber security concerns can put one\'s wealth, identity, and privacy in danger. To address the cyber security awareness among female students in higher education institutions, there is a need for some cyber security-related awareness program. This survey analyzed Cyber Security awareness among female university students of The Maharaja Sayajirao University of Baroda and enlightens students about the dangers and challenges that are prevalent in cyberspace. It was an experimental research where 167 female students were selected purposively. Data were collected through online survey which need lot of follow up as students were not filling the survey from. The findings of the study revealed that female students were less aware about the various terms related to cybercrime such as phishing, cyber bulling, cyber stalking and so on. The students were aware about password security and social media security whereas they have less awareness about browser security. The awareness session found effective in generating awareness about cyber crime and cyber security among the female university students. Less number of students attended the session; they should understand the importance of cyber security. The study concludes that there is a great need o generating awareness about cyber security among the students. The findings of the study recommend that universities should include curriculum on cyber security for the students.','Cyber crime, Cyber Security, Students, Awareness','This study aimed to understand the use of technology among female students and generate awareness among the students for cybercrime and cyber security. It also suggests ways of technology used so that the risks and harms associated with it can be mitigated and opportunities and benefits are accentuated. The risk and harms to female students are cyber crimes like- cyber bullying, hacking, phishing, online job, and financial frauds, misuse of online profiles and pictures, morphing of images, etc. The benefits of the technology are helpful in their studies, and activities, make their communication better and establish networks. It is very important to understand the way technology is used, how much it is used, and for what it is used. This decides the balance between opportunities and benefits on the one side and risks and harms on the other.\r\nThe findings of this study revealed that female students own their smartphones and they use other technology such as laptops, desktops, and tablets in their daily work. They spend more than 2 hours on different devices per day. They use their mobile data most of the time to access the internet. The majority of them use technology for online chatting, listening to music, watching videos, recharging their internet package, and browsing information on the internet.\r\nDespite the heavy use of technology, more than half of the students were not aware of cybercrime which is a troublesome situation for them. This is also reflected in the awareness of various terms related to cybercrime and security. As many of them had less awareness or no awareness about phishing, social engineering, firewall, identity theft, etc. the statistical difference was found in awareness about general security, password security, and browser security concerning the use of several devices. The finding also highlighted that the awareness session helped students in gaining information and knowledge regarding cyber security. It is visible that there was a gain in knowledge regarding certain terms associated with cybercrime and security such as phishing, 2 –factor authentification, the importance of antivirus, cyberbullying, etc. after the session.\r\nThis indicates that the awareness session not only increased cyber security awareness on the specific topics it addressed but also helped students in general. It indicated that if students are provided with thorough knowledge of this area then they can improve their digital practices and can make sure that they remain safe digitally. As the youth use technology and specifically the internet from multiple devices, there will always be a need for generating awareness and building their capacity to be safe and secure digitally. Real knowledge and skills of using and practicing rules related to digital safety need to be built among female students with the help of teaching and learning. It can be covered in their curriculum. University and academic institutions need to hold comprehensive security awareness and training sessions regularly to recognize the most common cyber security threats and vulnerabilities. \r\nThe right to privacy is the fundamental right of every Indian citizen including youth and specifically females and the use of digital media by females should not be used against them or to hamper their future in any way. This concluded that cyber security is highly recommendable to the students in the university and encourages more females to participate in the awareness programme. To minimize the effect of any breach, cyber security awareness through education, workshop, seminars, and other methods within the university is highly encouraged. \r\nIt should be noted that this research still has several limitations, such as the level of questions reliability, which is still not decent and the limited use of the independent variables. This research also did not always represent another more comprehensive cyber security topic. In future research, it is recommendable to add more variables that might affect cyber security awareness. \r\n','-','Krutika Bhate (2023). A Study on Awareness about Cyber Security Among the Female University Students. International Journal on Emerging Technologies, 14(2): 13–19.'),(8290,'170','Evaluation of Different Sugarcane Varieties Suitable for Sustainable Sugarcane Initiative(SSI) under Sandy Clay Loam Soils','R. Nageswari, V. Dhanushkodi, R. Anitha, T. Saranraj, B. Senthamizh Selvi and K.B. Sujatha','Evaluation of Different Sugarcane Varieties Suitable for Sustainable Sugarcane Initiative_SSI_ under Sandy Clay Loam Soils-85.pdf','',1,'A field experiment was conducted during the early season for two years at the Sugarcane Research Station, Sirugamani, Trichy, Tamil Nadu the early seasons of 2016-2017 to evaluate the performance of nine different sugarcane varieties as treatments under Sustainable Sugarcane Initiative(SSI) in sandy clay loam soil type. The trial was laid out in Randomized Block Design (RBD) with three replications. The results of this study revealed that the highest mean number of economic shoots (94,440/ha) and cane yield of 129.5 t/ha was recorded by the variety CoSi(Sc) 6 variety under SSI. The highest net return (Rs.1,63,277/ha), sugar yield(22.43 t/ha) and BCR (2.17) was recorded with the variety CoSi(Sc) 6 under SSI in the sandy clay loam soils of Trichy District in Tamil Nadu.','Sustainable Sugarcane Inititiave, Varieties, cane yield.','From this study, it can be concluded that the sugarcane variety CoSi(Sc) 6 performed better under the Sustainable Sugarcane Initiative (SSI) method of sugarcane cultivation followed by the varieties CoC 24 on sandy clay loam soils of Trichy district in Tamil Nadu.','-','R. Nageswari, V. Dhanushkodi, R. Anitha, T. Saranraj, B. Senthamizh Selvi and K.B. Sujatha (2023). Evaluation of Different Sugarcane Varieties Suitable for Sustainable Sugarcane Initiative(SSI) under Sandy Clay Loam Soils. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 15(12): 470-472.'),(8291,'175','Impact of Micronutrients and Nanoparticles on the Flowering Life of Anthurium andraeanum cv. Tropical Red','Punyatoya Priyambada, Sashikala Beura and Prem Narayan Jagadev','Impact-of-Micronutrients-and-Nanoparticles-on-the-Flowering-Life-of-Anthurium-andraeanum-cv.-Tropical-Red-Punyatoya-Priyambada-3.pdf','',1,'Anthurium is a slow growing perennial that requires shady, humid conditions as found in tropical forests. The media for growing Anthurium, whether in pot or bed, should be light, well drained and rich in organic matter. The spathe is usually heart-shaped. The flowers are on the spadix above the spathe. The study was plotted according to a Completely Randomized Design (CRD) with Duncan’s Multiple Range Test (DMRT). The experiment was conducted during the year 2018-2019 and 2021-2022 throughout the year under agroshadenet structure of RKVY Project on Anthurium, Dept. of Floriculture and Landscaping, (OUAT), Odisha. The flowering attributes in Anthurium andraeanum cv. Tropical Red also recorded maximum Stalk length (27.33 cm), Stalk circumference (4.92 cm), spathe length (10.52 cm), spathe width (7.4 cm) with application of Zinc oxide nanoparticles@75ppm i.e. treatment (T7). The maximum duration of bloom life i.e. discoloration of spathe on plant of flower (32.22 days) and highest number of flower yield per plant (25.37 nos.) was recorded with dose of ZnO NPs@ 75 ppm in T7 and minimum duration of bloom life of flower (29.43 days) and lowest number of flower yield per plant (19.10 nos.) were recorded under control (T1) during both the years of investigation. It is again observed in respect to spadix characteristics that the Zinc oxide nanoparticles @ 75 ppm used has shown to have maximum spadix length (5.58 cm), spadix diameter (2.82 cm.), days of opening of true flower on spadix (5.23 days), days taken for maturity of true flower (7.32 days), days taken for wilting of true flower (5.20 days) and minimum were recorded in T1 (Control) during both the years of investigation.','Spadix diameter, Bloom life of spathe, Spathe length and Stalk length','The flowering attributes in Anthurium andraeanum cv. Tropical Red also recorded maximum Stalk length (27.33 cm), Stalk circumference (4.92 cm), spathe length (10.52 cm), spathe width (7.4 cm) with application of Zinc oxide nanoparticles@75ppm i.e. treatment (T7) whereas earliness in days to flower opening from day of treatment (35.36 days), days to 1st spathe opening (5.27 days), days to unfurling of spathe from spathe appearance (2.97 days) and days to formation of marketable spathe from the day of unfurling ( 5.13 days) was found to be in the treatment T8 (Zinc oxide nanoparticle @ 100ppm). The maximum duration of bloom life i.e. discoloration of spathe on plant of flower (32.22 days) and highest number of flower yield per plant (25.37 nos.) was recorded with dose of ZnO NPs@ 75 ppm in T7 and minimum duration of bloom life of flower (29.43 days) and lowest number of flower yield per plant (19.10 nos) were recorded under control (T1) during both the years of investigation. \r\nIt is again observed in respect to spadix characteristics that the Zinc oxide nanoparticles @ 75 ppm used has shown to have maximum spadix length (5.58 cm), spadix diameter (2.82 cm), days of opening of true flower on spadix (5.23 days), days taken for maturity of true flower (7.32 days), days taken for wilting of true flower (5.20 days) and minimum were recorded in T1 (Control) during both the years of investigation.\r\n','-','Punyatoya Priyambada, Sashikala Beura and Prem Narayan Jagadev (2022). Impact of Micronutrients and Nanoparticles on the Flowering Life of Anthurium andraeanum cv. Tropical Red. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 14(5): 12-18.'),(8292,'172','Plant Growth Promotion and Suppression of Web Blight Disease of Cowpea by Native Rhizobacterial Strains of Bacillus subtilis singly or in Combination with Pseudomonas aeruginosa','Samrat Paul, Susmita Pati, Anindita Patwari, Subrata Dutta, R. Mandal, Ashis Roy Barman and Sujit Kumar Ray','Plant Growth Promotion and Suppression of Web Blight Disease of Cowpea by Native Rhizobacterial Strains of Bacillus subtilis singly or in Combination with Pseudomonas aeruginosa-Samrat Paul-58.pdf','',1,'The exploitation of antagonistic microbial populations could be the answer for the eco-friendly and successful management of plant diseases. In the present study, the efficacy of native rhizobacterial strains of Bacillus subtilis (PR-19 and B-11) solely or in consortia with Pseudomonas aeruginosa (strain GP8) was evaluated for the improvement of plant health and management of web blight disease in cowpea. The application of microbial consortia Bacillus subtilis (B-11) with Pseudomonas aeruginosa (GP8) through talc-based bioformulation showed 41.72% and 45.29% percentage disease control in 2020 and 2021, respectively, suggesting the potential of utilizing location-specific inoculation strains to obtain an optimum symbiotic benefit. The plant growth and yield parameters of cowpea plants were significantly increased in the treatments comprising PGPR-based bioformulations as compared to the chemical fungicide (Carbendazim 50% WP) and control treatments. The combination of seed treatment followed by soil application of consortia (B-11 and GP-8) performed very well at the field level for enhancing plant growth as well as suppressing web blight disease and increasing the yield of cowpea crops. Further research should be carried out on the shelf-life and cost-effectiveness of the prepared bioformulation, as well as their feasibility to be used in integrated disease management programs.','Web blight, biocontrol, Bacillus, Pseudomonas, PGPR, sustainable agriculture','In the present study, different strains of Bacillus subtilis and Pseudomonas aeruginosa based bio formulations were used alone or in combination. The field trials were conducted to evaluate the effect of the prepared bioformulations on the plant growth parameters and Web Blight disease of cowpea caused by R. solani Wested & Wallays. The result showed that better disease control occurred when combinations of the different PGPR-based bioformulations were used. The plant growth attributes like plant height, root length, number of branches per plant, and number of leaves per plant after 30 DAS and 60 DAS were also significantly improved under consortial application of Bacillus as compared to sole application of Bacillus, chemical application, and control. The Highest nodulation per plant after 50 DAS was registered in treatment B-11+GP-8, i.e., Bacillus sp. with fluorescent Pseudomonas, than all other treatments. Lower web blight disease incidence and higher vegetative pod yield of cowpea were recorded by the plot treated with consortia of B-11+GP-8, whereas the lowest yield was recorded in the control plot. Therefore, the combined application of Bacillus sp. and fluorescent Pseudomonas both as seed treatment and soil application may be used in the development of integrated disease management strategies for different crops in the near future as a step towards environmental as well as agricultural sustainability.','-','Samrat Paul, Susmita Pati, Anindita Patwari, Subrata Dutta, R. Mandal, Ashis Roy Barman and Sujit Kumar Ray (2024). Plant Growth Promotion and Suppression of Web Blight Disease of Cowpea by Native Rhizobacterial Strains of Bacillus subtilis singly or in Combination with Pseudomonas aeruginosa. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 16(1): 274-281.'),(8293,'172','Hybrid Vigor for Quantitative and Quality Traits in Maize (Zea mays L.)','P.N. Jogdande, V.L. Amolic, G.C. Shinde, S.R. Dhonde, N.S. Kute, R.S. Wagh and M.R. Patil ','Hybrid-Vigor-for-Quantitative-and-Quality-Traits-in-Maize-(Zea-mays-L.)-PN-Jogdande-59.pdf','',1,'In this study, a set of nine parents, seventy-two F1’s (direct and reciprocals) and three standard checks was conducted in rabi, 2020 with three replications in randomized block design at research farm of All India Coordinated Research Project on maize Rahuri center Mahatma Phule Krishi Vidyapeeth, Rahuri Dist. Ahmednagar. The cross combinations, EC-639008 × IC-552819 exhibited high per se performance and highly significant standard heterosis for almost all the characters studied. The other combinations EC-639008 × IC-552819, EC-639232 × IC-552819, HYD-52327 × IC-552819 exhibited high per se performance with highly significant better parent and standard heterosis for kernel yield, yield contributing character with quality character in almost all the three environments. Among all the crosses, EC-639008 × IC-552819 was identified as superior, which ranked 1st for per se performance, with highest magnitude of standard heterosis for kernel yield per plant with other characters. These crosses should be evaluated in multilocation trials and could be used as hybrids. ','Heterosis, yield, hybrid vigor and maize','In conclusion, among the tested cross combinations, EC-639008 X IC-552819 emerged as particularly notable, demonstrating high per se performance and significant standard heterosis across multiple characters studied. Additionally, combinations such as EC-639232 X IC-552819 and HYD-52327 X IC-552819 also exhibited commendable performance in terms of kernel yield, yield-contributing traits, and quality characteristics across different environments. Notably, EC-639008 X IC-552819 stood out as the superior hybrid, ranking first in per se performance and demonstrating the highest magnitude of standard heterosis for kernel yield per plant, among other traits. These findings suggest the potential of these identified crosses for further evaluation in multilocation trials, with implications for their use as high-performing hybrids in maize cultivation. Further research and field testing are warranted to validate and harness the full potential of these promising hybrids in enhancing maize productivity and quality.','-','P.N. Jogdande, V.L. Amolic, G.C. Shinde, S.R. Dhonde, N.S. Kute, R.S. Wagh and M.R. Patil (2024). Hybrid Vigor for Quantitative and Quality Traits in Maize (Zea mays L.). Biological Forum – An International Journal, 16(1): 282-292.'),(8294,'172','Assessment of External and Internal Egg Quality Traits of Indigenous Siruvidai Chicken of Tamil Nadu','P. Balamurugan, K. Sangilimadan, S. Ezhil Valavan, C. Manivannan and R. Venkataramanan ','Assessment-of-External-and-Internal-Egg-Quality-Traits-of-Indigenous-Siruvidai-Chicken-of-Tamil-Nadu-P-Balamurugan-59.pdf','',1,'A study was conducted to assess the external and internal egg quality parameters of Siruvidai chicken in Tamil Nadu. The North-Eastern part of the Tiruvannamalai district, the North-Western part of the Dharmapuri district, Ariyalur and Perambalur districts of the Cauvery Delta zone of Tamil Nadu were selected for the study. A total of 200 eggs were collected randomly from Siruvidai farmers of Tamil Nadu, covering 60- 70 eggs from each district for egg quality studies. The mean value of external egg quality traits like egg weight (g), egg length (cm), egg width (cm), volume (cm3), shape index, specific gravity(gm/cm3) and surface area (mm2) of Siruvidai chicken eggs were 35.78 ± 0.30 gm, 4.89 ± 0.02 cm, 3.66 ± 0.01 cm, 33.45 ± 0.30 cm3, 74.93 ± 0.26, 1.07 ± 0.01 gm/cm3 and 57.57 ± 0.33mm2respectively. The average internal egg parameters like albumin height (mm), albumin width (mm), albumin index, haugh unit, yolk height (mm), yolk width (mm), yolk index and yolk colour were 5.54 ± 0.08 mm, 77.50 ± 0.73 mm, 0.07 ± 0.002, 84.65 ± 0.57, 15.89 ± 0.14 mm, 38.13 ± 0.21 mm, 0.42 ± 0.01 and 9.18 ± 0.10 respectively. The external egg quality parameters differed significantly (P<0.05) among different districts due to environment, management, breed, age, scavenging management and the plane of nutrition.','External and internal egg quality traits, Indigenous, Siruvidai chicken, Tamil Nadu','From the result, it was concluded that Siruvidai chicken egg quality traits were very similar to other indigenous breeds of chicken in the country. The homogenous estimates obtained indicate uniformity within the breed and the results of this study will provide first-hand information on Siruvidai chicken which will be useful in documenting of the genetic group. The difference in location had a significant influence on egg quality parameters.','-','P. Balamurugan, K. Sangilimadan, S. Ezhil Valavan, C. Manivannan and R. Venkataramanan (2024). Assessment of External and Internal Egg Quality Traits of Indigenous Siruvidai Chicken of Tamil Nadu. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 16(1): 293-298.'),(8295,'172','Genetic Diversity in Proso Millet (Panicum milliaceum L.)','Patil P.B., Karad S.R., Gajbhiye P.N. and Mote M.S.','Genetic-Diversity-in-Proso-Millet-(Panicum-milliaceum-L.)-Patil-PB-61.pdf','',1,'The experimental material consists of seventy genotypes with four checks of proso millet germplasms which were collected from NBPGR New Delhi and IIMR, Hyderabad. The experiment was laid out in Randomized Block Design with two replications during late rabi 2022. Observations were recorded on nine yield and yield contributing characters i.e. days to 50 per cent flowering, days to maturity, productive tillers per plant, plant height (cm), ear head length (cm), grain yield per plant (g), 1000 grain weight (g), fodder yield per plant (g) and protein content (%). The analysis of variance showed highly significant differences among the genotypes for all characters under study. The estimates of genotypic coefficient of variation (GCV) were lower than phenotypic coefficient of variation (PCV) for all the characters under study. The GCV and PCV both were observed to be high for productive tillers per plant, fodder yield per plant, grain yield per plant and 1000 grain weight. The character 1000 grain weight showed highest heritability followed by days to 50 per cent flowering, protein content, productive tillers per plant, days to maturity, grain yield per plant and fodder yield per plant respectively. The character fodder yield per plant showed highest genetic advance followed by plant height and days to 50 per cent flowering.','Proso millet, Variability, GCV, PCV and Heritability','Wide range of variation was observed for all the nine characters under study. The analysis of variance exhibited significant difference among the genotypes for all the characters. Estimates for the genotypic coefficients of variation (GCV) were lower than the phenotypic coefficient of variation (PCV) for all the characters. High heritability estimates along with high genetic advance were obtained for several characters. The character 1000 grain weight showed highest heritability followed by days to 50 per cent flowering, protein content, productive tillers per plant, days to maturity, grain yield per plant and fodder yield per plant. The character fodder yield per plant showed highest genetic advance followed by plant height and days to 50 per cent flowering.','-','Patil P.B., Karad S.R., Gajbhiye P.N. and Mote M.S. (2024). Genetic Diversity in Proso Millet (Panicum milliaceum L.). Biological Forum – An International Journal, 16(1): 299-302.'),(8296,'174','Medicinal Plants Potentials of Fertility Control, Antioxidant and Antimicrobial Activities: A Review','Ashish Kumar Kansotiya, Suman Kumari, Neha Bharti, Prity Yadav and Pratap Chand Mali','Medicinal-Plants-Potentials-of-Fertility-Control-Antioxidant-and-Antimicrobial-Activities-A-Review-Pratap-Chand-Mali-4.pdf','',1,'Uncontrolled human population and emerging disease as significantly affects peoples of all walks life at global level. Population explosion directly or indirectly caused detorious effects on life and natural resources on the earth planet. Therefore, fertility control by means of natural, traditional medicinal plants to check human population might be significantly used to conserve living beings and natural resources as well as reproductive health care. Various medicinal plants like Ficus religiosa, Leucas aspera, Holarrhena antidysenterica, Psidivm guajava used traditionally to control and cure variety of diseases. The aim of this study was provide information of such plants with antimicrobial, antioxidant and fertility efficacy for controlling population as well as varieties of diseases. Some medicinal plant extract were investigated for their antimicrobial, antioxidant and fertility activity in animal models. This review covered scientific proven information on various medicinal plants used for regulation of fertility, antimicrobial and antioxidant activities. This review provides information of medicinal plants used traditionally in natural system for antimicrobial, antioxidant and antifertility activity.','Medicinal Plants, Antimicrobial, Antioxidant, Antibacterial, fertility','Medicinal plants have different activities without any boundaries across the world. In this review collect and provide important information about medicinal plants which is possess potentials to regulate different types of biological activities such antioxidant, antimicrobial and fertility to control various diseases and population.','-','Ashish Kumar Kansotiya, Suman Kumari, Neha Bharti, Prity Yadav and Pratap Chand Mali (2023). Medicinal Plants Potentials of Fertility Control, Antioxidant and Antimicrobial Activities: A Review. International Journal on Emerging Technologies, 14(2): 20–29.'),(8297,'172','Effect of Publications on Career Advancement of Agricultural Teachers of ANGRAU','M. Sindhuja, V. Sailaja, K. Raghavendra Chowdary, S. Ujwala Rani and T. Lakshmi ','Effect-of-Publications-on-Career-Advancement-of-Agricultural-Teachers-of-ANGRAU-Sindhuja-62.pdf','',1,'This study examines the impact of publications on the career advancement of faculty members at Acharya N.G. Ranga Agricultural University (ANGRAU), a prominent institution for agricultural education and research. The research focused on Andhra Pradesh state and the five constituent agricultural colleges under ANGRAU, selecting 102 respondents through purposive random sampling procedure. Data collected via close-ended questionnaire explored factors like number of publications, citation metrics, leadership roles, awards, editorial positions, collaborations and research funding. The findings revealed that many teachers actively participated in research and knowledge sharing which is evident from their moderate publication and citation metrics. Leadership roles, awards and editorial positions were found to significantly improve career prospects. Collaborative efforts particularly with students positively influenced research quality and career advancement. However, the ongoing difficulty in obtaining research funding suggests areas for improvement. To enhance ANGRAU teacher’s career trajectories fostering a culture of impactful publishing, facilitating leadership avenues, nurturing collaborative networks and addressing the issue of limited research funding are all imperative.','Teachers, ANGRAU, publications','This study explored how scholarly publications shape the career advancement of ANGRAU teachers. The results emphasize the pivotal role of publications in shaping the teacher’s professional growth. A noteworthy percentage of teachers were actively engaged in research and knowledge dissemination, reflected by their medium number of publications and citation metrics. Additionally, the study highlighted the significance of leadership roles, awards and editorial positions in bolstering career prospects. Notably, collaborative endeavors of Ph.D. Scholars with national agricultural research institutes be identified as positive influence on research quality and subsequent career progression. Nevertheless, the persisting challenge of securing research funding points toward potential areas for enhancement. To enhance ANGRAU teacher’s career trajectories fostering a culture of impactful publishing, facilitating leadership avenues, nurturing collaborative networks and addressing the issue of limited research funding are all imperative.','-','M. Sindhuja, V. Sailaja, K. Raghavendra Chowdary, S. Ujwala Rani and T. Lakshmi (2024). Effect of Publications on Career Advancement of Agricultural Teachers of ANGRAU. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 16(1): 303-306.'),(8298,'170','Land Degradation in the North Eastern Region of India and its Mitigation','Immanuel C. Haokip, M. Homeshwari Devi, Sunil B.H., Mahima Dixit, Ampee Tasung and Yabi Gadi ','Land-Degradation-in-the-North-Eastern-Region-of-India-and-its-Mitigation-Immanuel-C-Haokip-86.pdf','',1,'The North Eastern Region (NER) of India is not an exception to the impact of land degradation. These states have seen varying degrees and types of damage. Many anthropogenic activities, such as mining for natural resources, stone quarrying, oil exploration, and other industrial operations, accelerate land degradation in this delicate ecosystem. These activities also include large-scale deforestation that results in changes in the forest cover, waterlogging, flooding, and soil and water erosion. Lime application, integrated nutrient management, integrated farming systems, agroforestry systems employing multipurpose trees, various soil and water conservation techniques, rehabilitation of contaminated soils, etc. are some of the approaches used to mitigate land deterioration in the area.','Land degradation, Acid soil, Soil erosion, Mining, Jhum, Soil conservation','The mountainous nature of the NER of India makes it a fragile ecosystem inherently vulnerable to land degradation. The slash-and-burn type of agriculture coupled with the heavy dependence of the majority of the population on forest products, and industrial and developmental activities accelerates deforestation, soil and water erosion, biodiversity, and even loss of human lives. Steps to mitigate land degradation should include measures that could reduce degradation vis-a-vis improve productivity, profitability, and sustainability of the ecosystem.','-','Immanuel C. Haokip, M. Homeshwari Devi, Sunil B.H., Mahima Dixit, Ampee Tasung and Yabi Gadi (2023). Land Degradation in the North Eastern Region of India and its Mitigation. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 15(12): 473-479.'),(8299,'172','Intra and Interspecific Graft Compatibility Studies and Standardization of Grafting Parameters for Sweet Pepper (Capsicum annuum L. var. grossum Sendt.)','Sanmathi Naik ATS, Shivanand Hongal, C.N. Hanchinamani, G. Manjunath, Mohan Kumar S. and Shankar Meti ','Intra-and-Interspecific-Graft-Compatibility-Studies-and-Standardization-of-Grafting-Parameters-for-Sweet-Pepper-(Capsicum-annuum-L.-var.-grossum-Sendt.)-Sanmathi-Naik-ATS-63.pdf','',1,'This research investigated the graft compatibility of various Capsicum spp. rootstocks with the popular bell pepper hybrid Massilia RZ F1. Grafting is a technique that combines desirable fruit characteristics of a scion with the disease resistance and stress tolerance of a rootstock, contributing to increased yield and improved quality. The study focused on 25 rootstocks, including different Capsicum species, evaluating their compatibility and productivity. Significant variations were observed in seed germination times and seedling growth parameters among the rootstocks. CRS-23 and Massilia RZ F1 exhibited quick germination, showcasing seed vigour. Graft success varied across combinations, with high success observed in combinations involving CRS-1, CRS-2, CRS-6, CRS-8, CRS-11, CRS-12, CRS-13, CRS-14, CRS-15, and CRS-21. Compatibility was reflected in scion girth, rootstock girth, and graft union girth measurements at 15 days after grafting. This study emphasizes the importance of selecting compatible rootstock-scion combinations for successful grafting, highlighting potential options for improved germination, graft success, and desirable growth traits in grafted bell pepper plants.','Graft compatibility, Graft success, Bell pepper','In summary, this experiment suggests that the choice of rootstock and grafting combination can significantly influence the success of the grafting process, as well as the subsequent growth and development of the grafted seedlings. It appears that CRS-23 and MS are promising rootstock and scion options for quick germination and grafting. Additionally, the combination of MS with various rootstocks, such as CRS-1, CRS-2, and others, results in high graft success percentages, which is crucial for successful grafting. The selection of the appropriate rootstock is also essential for achieving desirable girth measurements in grafted seedlings.','-','Sanmathi Naik ATS, Shivanand Hongal, C.N. Hanchinamani, G. Manjunath, Mohan Kumar S. and Shankar Meti (2024). Intra and Interspecific Graft Compatibility Studies and Standardization of Grafting Parameters for Sweet Pepper (Capsicum annuum L. var. grossum Sendt.). Biological Forum – An International Journal, 16(1): 307-314.'),(8300,'176','Cooking Quality and Acceptability of Coloured Horse Gram (Macrotyloma uniflorum) Varieties\r\n','Pallavi M. Badami, Uma N. Kulkarni, Hemalatha S. and Vijaykumar A.G. and K.K. Math','Cooking-Quality-and-Acceptability-of-Coloured-Horse-Gram-Pallavi-M-Badami-1.pdf','',1,'Horse gram (Macrotyloma uniflorum) which is also known as poor man’s pulse is one of the underutilized pulse. The main objective of the study was to analyse the cooking quality of coloured horse gram varieties. Three different genotypes of horse gram with different colours viz., black (CRHG-22), white (Kalaghatagi local) and brown (GPM-6) were procured from Seed Unit, University of Agricultural Sciences, Dharwad and were analysed for cooking characteristics of unsoaked, soaked and boiled and soaked and pressure cooked grains. There was significant difference between the coloured horse gram varieties for all the cooking quality parameters in all the three methods. Cooking time in unsoaked grains ranged from 91- 110 min, 50-58 min in soaked and boiled grains and 44 to 49 min in soaked and pressure cooked grains. Pressure cooking was found to have better cooking characteristics compared to soaked and boiled and unsoaked grains. Pressure cooked grains showed higher sensory scores for all the sensory parameters in all the three coloured horse gram varieties compared to boiled grains.','Horse gram, unsoaked, boiling, pressure cooking, cooking time, sensory parameters','Cooked weight, pre-cooked volume, cooked volume, cooking time, solid loss and water uptake ratio was high in black coloured varieties compared to other two varieties in unsoaked grains. Pre-cooked weight and cooked weight was high in brown coloured variety than other two varieties whereas cooking time, solid loss and water uptake ratio was high in black coloured varieties compared to other two varieties in soaked and boiled grains. Pre-cooked weight, cooked weight and cooked volume was high in brown coloured variety than other two varieties whereas cooking time, solid loss and water uptake ratio was high in black coloured varieties compared to other two varieties in soaked and pressure cooked grains. Pressure cooked grains showed higher sensory scores for all the sensory parameters in all the three coloured horse gram varieties compared to boiled grains.','-','Pallavi M. Badami, Uma N. Kulkarni, Hemalatha S. and Vijaykumar A.G. and K.K. Math (2024). Cooking Quality and Acceptability of Coloured Horse Gram (Macrotyloma uniflorum) Varieties. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 16(2): 01-05.'),(8301,'172','Assessment of Growth, Yield Attributes and yield of Chickpea (Cicer arietinum L.) Cultivars under Varying Environments\r\n','Abhijeet Kumar Dubey, Anay Kumar Rawat, Priyanka Mishra and Ashish Tiwari ','Assessment-of-Growth-Yield-Attributes-and-yield-of-Chickpea-Abhijeet-Kumar-Dubey-64.pdf','',1,'A field experiment was conducted during winter seasons of 2020-21 and 2021-22 at the AICRP on Agrometeorology, College of Agricultural Engineering, JNKVV, Jabalpur (M.P.) to study the effect of varying environments on growth and yield of chickpea cultivars. The experiment was laid out in Split Plot Design consisting three growing environments as main plot treatment (15th November, 30th November and 15th December) and three cultivars of chickpea as sub plot treatment of (JG14, JGK1 and JG 36) with three replications. The result of study revealed that among three different sowing environments crop sown on 30th November was recorded significantly superior growth attributes, yield attributes and yield followed by early sown environment (15th November) and late sown environment (15th December). Among the chickpea cultivars, JG 14 proved the best with respect to growth parameters, yield-attributes, yield and economics followed by JG 36 and JGK 1. Cultivar JG14 with sowing environments of 30th November gave the higher values of growth parameters, yield attributes and yield of chickpea.','Growth, yield, chickpea, cultivars, environments','Based on the foregoing discussion, it could be concluded that 30th November sown crop was noted significantly higher growth parameters, yield attributes and yield of chickpea as compared to 15th November and 15th December sowing environments. Among the chickpea cultivars, JG 14 proved the best with respect to growth parameters, yield-attributes, yield, quality and economics over the other cultivars. JG14 with sowing environments of 30th November gave the higher values of growth parameters, yield attributes and seed yield as compared to other combinations.','-','Abhijeet Kumar Dubey, Anay Kumar Rawat, Priyanka Mishra and Ashish Tiwari (2024). Assessment of Growth, Yield Attributes and yield of Chickpea (Cicer arietinum L.) Cultivars under Varying Environments. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 16(1): 315-318.'),(8302,'176','Genetic Variability Studies for Quantitative Traits in Finger Millet (Eluesine coracana L. Gaertn)','Vishnuvardhan Kumar Maddirala, L. Madhavilatha, T. Haritha, T.M. Hemalatha and Sree Vidya Gundrathi','Genetic-Variability-Studies-for-Quantitative-Traits-in-Finger-Millet-(Eluesine-coracana-L.-Gaertn)-Vishnuvardhan-Kumar-Maddirala-2.pdf','',1,'Forty finger millet genotypes were examined for eleven quantitative traits viz., days to 50% flowering, plant height, fodder yield plot-1, days to maturity, main ear length, productive tillers/plant, dry fodder yield per plot, number of fingers per ear, thousand grain weight, harvest index and grain yield per plot to estimate variability parameters. Analysis of variance revealed that significant differences for all studied characters. Grain yield plot-1, fodder yield plot-1, dry fodder plot-1 and thousand grain weight recorded high GCV, PCV, genetic advance as per cent of mean (GAM) and heritability implying that more variation and prevalence of additive gene action for these characters.','GCV, PCV, Genetic advance, Heritability, GAM','Grain yield plot-1 recorded high PCV and GCV implying that greater variation present in the population for this character, providing huge scope for further improvement of this trait among the studied genotypes. High heritability merged with genetic advance as per cent of mean recorded for grain yield plot-1 indicating selection would be effective based on this character. Other characters viz., fodder yield plot-1, dry fodder plot-1 and thousand grain weight also recorded high GCV, PCV, heritability and genetic advance as per cent of mean implying that more variation and prevalence of additive gene action for these characters. Thus, selection of genotypes based on these traits will be rewarding in future breeding programmes.','-','Vishnuvardhan Kumar Maddirala, L. Madhavilatha, T. Haritha, T.M. Hemalatha and Sree Vidya Gundrathi (2024). Genetic Variability Studies for Quantitative Traits in Finger Millet (Eluesine coracana L. Gaertn). Biological Forum – An International Journal, 16(2): 06-08.'),(8303,'176','Impact of Plant Growth Regulators (PGR’s) in Rainfed Agriculture','Mohammed Azharuddin B.R. and K. Murali','Impact-of-Plant-Growth-Regulators-(PGR’s)-in-Rainfed-Agriculture-Mohammed-Azharuddin-BR-3.pdf','',1,'Plant growth regulators (PGRs) have emerged as a crucial tool in rainfed agriculture to combat the various stresses that crops face in such environments. Rainfed agriculture relies solely on natural rainfall, which can be unpredictable and unevenly distributed, leading to challenges like water stress, nutrient stress, heat stress, weed stress, and climate change stress. PGRs aid plants in overcoming these stresses by enhancing root growth, nutrient uptake, defense mechanisms, cell elongation, photosynthesis, and soil stabilization. They also play a role in inhibiting weed growth while promoting overall plant growth. The endogenous biosynthesis of PGRs and their exogenous application as foliar agents offer potential solutions to mitigate the adverse effects of biotic and abiotic stresses in rainfed agriculture. By improving crop yield and quality, PGRs contribute significantly to sustainable agriculture practices in rainfed regions, supporting food security and livelihoods for millions of small-scale farmers worldwide. Utilisation of plant growth regulators in rainfed agriculture helps to enhance plant growth and productivity while increasing resilience to biotic stresses such as drought, salinity, and extreme temperatures. These regulators also contribute to sustainability by reducing the reliance on excessive water and fertilizers. However, the careful application of plant growth regulators is crucial, taking into account factors such as crop type, growth stage, and environmental conditions. By judiciously using these regulators, significant benefits can be realized in improving the livelihoods of rainfed farming communities.','Plant growth regulators, Rainfed agriculture, Abiotic stress, Sustainability','The use of plant growth regulators in rainfed agriculture has shown promising results in improving growth and productivity. These regulators help plants to overcome biotic stresses like drought, salinity and extreme temperatures hereby increasing their resilience and productivity. The use of these regulators also reduces the need for excessive water and fertilizers, making rainfed agriculture more sustainable. However, it is important to note that the application of plant growth regulators should be done carefully, considering crop type, growth stage and environmental conditions. The judicious use of plant growth regulators can play a vital role in livelihoods of rainfed farming communities.','-','Mohammed Azharuddin B.R. and K. Murali (2024). Impact of Plant Growth Regulators (PGR’s) in Rainfed Agriculture. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 16(2): 09-14.'),(8304,'172','Influence of Organics Nutrient Management on Growth and Yield Attribute of Onion (Allium cepa L.)','C.H. Raval, B.N. Satodiya, A.J. Patel and D.D. Parekh','Influence of Organics Nutrient Management on Growth and Yield Attribute of Onion (Allium cepa L.)-CH Raval-65.pdf','',1,'An experiment was conducted at Horticulture Research Farm, College of Horticulture, AAU, Anand during the three consecutive years 2016-17, 2017-18 and 2018-19 on onion cv. GAWO 3. The experiment was laid out in Randomized Block Design with three replications and ten treatments viz., T1: RDF 100:75:75 NPK kg ha-1 (control), T2: 100 % N from FYM, T3: 100 % N from Vermicompost, T4: 100 % N from Castor cake, T5: 75 % N from FYM + NPK consortium 1 L ha-1, T6: 75% N from VC + NPK consortium 1 L ha-1, T7: 75% N from CC + NPK consortium 1 L ha-1, T8: 50% N from FYM + NPK consortium 1 L ha-1, T9: 50% N from VC + NPK consortium 1 L ha-1, T10: 50% N from CC + NPK consortium 1 L ha-1. The observations were recorded on different growth and yield attributes. The treatment T6 (Soil application of 75% N from VC + NPK consortium 1 L ha-1) recorded significantly, higher bulb weight (87.91g), bulb volume (90.75 cm3), bulb yield (467 q/ha) and “A” grade bulbs (325.64 q/ha) in pooled analysis. Whereas, plant height at 40 and 80 DAP as well as yield of “B and C” grade bulbs were found non-significant.','Organic manure, bulb yield, Bio NPK Consortium, onion','From the three years of field study, it can be concluded that application of 75% N from VC + NPK consortium 1 L ha-1 or 75 % N from FYM + NPK consortium 1 L ha-1recorded maximum bulb weight, bulb volume and bulb yield as well as “A” grade bulb in onion cv. GAWO 3.','-','C.H. Raval, B.N. Satodiya, A.J. Patel and D.D. Parekh (2024). Influence of Organics Nutrient Management on Growth and Yield Attribute of Onion (Allium cepa L.). Biological Forum – An International Journal, 16(1): 319-322.'),(8305,'176','Effect of 2,3,7,8-Tetrachlorodibenzo-p-dioxin Toxin on Cell viability in Cultured Caprine Granulosa Cells','Femi Francis, Raji Kanakkaparambil, Ramziya P.K., Pratheesh Mankuzhy, Babitha Vazhur, Roshin Anie Jose and Sanis Juliet','Effect-of-2-3-7-8-Tetrachlorodibenzo-p-dioxin-Toxin-on-Cell-viability-in-Cultured-Caprine-Granulosa-Cells-Femi-Francis-4.pdf','',1,'2,3,7,8-Tetrachlorodibenzo-p-dioxin (TCDD), a highly potent dioxin toxin, is being discharged into the environment through various human activities. Notably, it possesses the ability to bioaccumulate in adipose tissues. TCDD is recognised for its detrimental impact on reproductive functions. The present study reports that exposure to different doses of TCDD in vitro, even at higher concentrations, did not affect the viability of granulosa cells. The study tested the hypothesis that exposure to TCDD ranging from 5 nM to 100 nM could affect granulosa cell viability in a dose-dependent manner. For testing the hypothesis, granulosa cells isolated from the caprine ovaries were used for the study. The isolated granulosa cells were divided into a control group and three treatment groups and were exposed to different doses of TCDD (5 nM, 10 nM, and 100 nM) for 24 hours. The observed results indicated that cell viability was maintained in the granulosa cells exposed to all the concentrations of TCDD examined. A non-significant dose-dependent decrease was also observed in the study. The present study suggested that the TCDD doses studied might not be cytotoxic enough to decrease the cellular viability of the granulosa cells for 24 hours. ','TCDD, goat, granulosa cells, cell viability, dose-dependent','Overall, the results of the present study indicated that the viability of granulosa cells decreased in a dose-dependent manner in response to different doses of TCDD, although the studied TCDD doses were not toxic enough to significantly reduce cell viability. The potential harm to cell viability might have been averted due to either a brief exposure to TCDD or variations in species response to it.','-','Femi Francis, Raji Kanakkaparambil, Ramziya P.K., Pratheesh Mankuzhy, Babitha Vazhur, Roshin Anie Jose and Sanis Juliet (2024). Effect of 2,3,7,8-Tetrachlorodibenzo-p-dioxin Toxin on Cell viability in Cultured Caprine Granulosa Cells. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 16(2): 15-19.'),(8306,'176','Sustainable Kharif Season Cropping System: A Grewia optiva based Agroforestry Approach with Optimized Tree Spacing and nutrient Management for Cereals and Pulses','Uday Kumar Lodh, C.L. Thakur, Vimal Chauhan, Subhash Sharma, Praveen Kumar, Dhirender Kumar and Ankush','Sustainable-Kharif-Season-Cropping-System-A-Grewia-optiva-based-Agroforestry-Approach-with-Optimized-Tree-Spacing-and-nutrient-Management-for-Cereals-and-Pulses-Uday-Kumar-Lodh-5.pdf','',1,'The present study was conducted to examine the impact of integrated nutrient management on yield of maize and black gram under three varying tree distances: S1 (8m × 1m), S2 (8m × 2m), and S3 (8m × 3m) in mid hills of Himachal Pradesh during the years 2021-2022 and 2022- 2023. The study was conducted within an existing agroforestry system of G. optiva trees, which were 17 years old. The trees were arranged in rows with three different spacings: 1m, 2m, and 3m apart. The experiment utilized a split-plot design, where cereal crop maize (Zea mays) and pulse crop black gram, (Vigna mungo) were planted as intercrops during the Kharif season. During the two-year study, the crops grown under different spacings were supplemented with the application of eight different integrated nutrient doses, namely: no nutrient doses (T1), recommended dose of inorganic fertilizers-NPK (T2), FYM (T3), vermicompost VC - (T4), FYM+VC+NPK - (T5), 75% FYM + 25% VC - (T6), 50% FYM + 50% VC - (T7), 50% (25% FYM + 25% VC) + 50% NPK - (T8). The study revealed that the S0 spacing level and T5 fertilizer treatment, which combines organic manures with chemical fertilizers, have the highest yield for both crops. In contrast, the S1 spacing level and T1 treatment, where no nutrients were applied, resulted in the lowest yield. Significant differences were also observed in yield parameters over the years. ','Maize, Black gram, Integrated Nutrient Management, Tree Spacing','Based on the findings of this study, it can be concluded that the growth of maize and black gram crops was better in open conditions compared to the agroforestry system. However, it is important to note that the yield of maize and black gram in S3 is on par S0 (open condition) and there is no significant difference between them. In these situations, intercropping cereal and pulse crops under G. optiva trees can improve soil fertility and sustain yield in the long term, as compared to growing single crops in open conditions. The highest yield for both crops was observed in the S0 (open condition) spacing level and T5 (FYM+VC+NPK) fertilizer treatment, which combines organic manures with chemical fertilizers. On the other hand, the S1 (8m × 1m) spacing level and T1 treatment, where no nutrients were applied, resulted in the lowest yield. Additionally, the second year of the study had a significantly higher yield (10.11 q ha-1) compared to the first year (9.69 q ha-1).','-','Uday Kumar Lodh, C.L. Thakur, Vimal Chauhan, Subhash Sharma, Praveen Kumar, Dhirender Kumar and Ankush (2024). Sustainable Kharif Season Cropping System: A Grewia optiva based Agroforestry Approach with Optimized Tree Spacing and nutrient Management for Cereals and Pulses. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 16(2): 20-24.'),(8307,'176','Prospects of Seed Entrepreneurship in India','Mukesh Kumar and Prabir Chakrabotri ','Prospects-of-Seed-Entrepreneurship-in-India-Mukesh Kumar-6.pdf','',1,'Seed sector is very vibrant and dynamic in nature. Initiations for setting up a new seed business are important for young entrepreneur primarily for two reasons. Firstly, it enhances the capacity of the formal seed sector. Secondly, it contributes to livelihood augmentation of seed growers as well as stakeholders. Local growers, when incentivized and supported, can take up seed business to cater to the unmet seed needs of the locality. While India is the fifth largest seed industry globally, it has a miniscule share in global seed trade which accounts to approximately less than 1.0 percent of the total global exports. Despite this, India has an exceptional chance to expand export market to both sub-tropical and tropical regions of the world due to its vast geographical and agro-climatic diversity. Furthermore, India possesses trained workforce to meet the needs of Research and Development allowing to become a worldwide seed hub for breeding varieties for a variety of global markets and custom seed production. Presently, India is also undertaking custom production in vegetable seeds and have potential to become a global leader in it. Moreover, with increasing number of health-conscious consumers, the quality specific demand for food has been the major growth driver for demand of bio fortified varieties. Thus, the inherent factor such as diverse agro-climatic conditions, huge domestic market, export potential, vast germplasm base, availability young, skilled and cheap workforce etc. are the driving force for attracting new seed entrepreneur despite having highly dynamic, diverse, innovative and highly competitive seed market.','Entrepreneurship, Quality Seed, Hybrid, Seed Industry','Seed sector is emerging as a new destination for young entrepreneur in India mainly due many inherent factors such as diverse agro-climatic conditions, vast germplasm base, low seed replacement rate, huge demand of hybrid seed, availability young, skilled and cheap workforce favourable for initiating the seed business. The Indian seed industry is highly dynamic, innovative, internationally competitive, and diverse, that further allowing new seed entrepreneurs to flourish. Huge domestic market still remains untapped due to use of farmers saved seed and also vast potential of growth in export market. For new seed entrepreneurs, the hybrid seed business is currently the most lucrative market area. ','-','Mukesh Kumar and Prabir Chakrabotri (2024). Prospects of Seed Entrepreneurship in India. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 16(2): 25-31.'),(8308,'156','Grass Root innovations for Better Performance of Sericulture Industry','Jasmeena Qadir, Tajamul Islam, Neha Sudan and Shalini Aryan ','Grass-Root-innovations-for-Better-Performance-of-Sericulture-Industry-Jasmeena-Qadir-163.pdf','',1,'Sericulture is the art and science of rearing silkworms for the production of silk. It comprises a lot of on-farm and off-farm activities generating employment and income to rural population of India. Innovations are technical solutions to the problems faced in each sector of sericulture. The development of novel techniques in mulberry cultivation can help farmers to plant mulberry on large area. The need of convenient, strategic and cost-effective approaches may ensure mass scale rearing of silkworms. Conduct of programs/trainings/workshop by acquainted resource staff can persuade the farmers to adopt the novel techniques which can help in transfer of technologies and adoption of innovations. The large scale mass rearing of silkworms can generate bulk of silk output offers chance for upliftment of socio-economic status of Indian rural population.','Mechanization, silkworm, CSRTI-Mysore, technology','Sericulture being the labour- intensive sector provides a source of profitable self-employment to large number of Indian population. Labour wages costs are considerably higher of the total cocoon produced from different sectors of sericulture in India. Hence reduction in labour dependency will ultimately reduce the production costs. The farming technicality in each sector of sericulture is the need of hour. Innovations play a prominent role to accomplish the goal. The novel ideas related to different approaches, appliances, techniques connected with farming people can be explored in developing sericulture. Investment in technology, promotion of technologies and conduction of training programs can contribute in improving the competence in sericulture. The acceptance of challenges and adoption of innovations can lead to the developments in sericulture.','-','Jasmeena Qadir, Tajamul Islam, Neha Sudan and Shalini Aryan (2023). Grass Root innovations for Better Performance of Sericulture Industry. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 15(4): 996-999.'),(8309,'176','A Study on Analysing Gram Negative Multidrug-Resistant Enteric Bacteria from the River Kshripa, Ujjain (MP), India','Hinore J.S., Dass P. and Ishaque S.','A Study on Analysing Gram Negative Multidrug-Resistant Enteric Bacteria from the River Kshripa, Ujjain (MP), India-Jitendra Singh Hinore-7-7920.pdf','',1,'The main aim of the study was to evaluate the antibiotic resistance among gram negative enteric bacteria that were isolated from different ghats of the river Khripra. For the investigation of gram negative enteric bacteria, a total of 8 sampling sites were selected, and a total of 6 gram negative bacteria were isolated. The members are E.coli, Salmonella, Enterobacter, Kliebsella and Citrobacter Along with this, Pseudomonas were also isolated, and the resistance mechanism was analysed by the antibiotic susceptibility test, also known as the disc diffusion method and the Kirby-bauer method. For the detection of multidrug resistance among the Enterobacteriaceae, the following types of beta-lactam antibiotics were used: aztreonam, ceftazidime, cefpodoxime, chloramphenicol, amikacin, ceftriaxone, ciprofloxacin, and ampicillin. Finally, after performing the disc diffusion test, we isolated a total of 21 strains of gram negative bacteria, out of which 8 strains were sensitive against these antibiotics, while 13 gram negative bacterial strains showed the mechanism of antibiotic resistance. Besides, the MAR index of all the isolates was calculated, which shows that the strains of gram negative bacteria in samples 1, 2, and 3 were sensitive except Enterobacter, which was present in sample no. 3. On analysis, we also detected the resistant strains that were present in samples 4, 5, 6, 7, and 8. After calculating the MAR index, it was found that the isolated strains from samples 4, 5, 6, 7, and 8 Together with one isolate from Sample No. 3, a MAR Index greater than 0.2 indicates a high risk source of contamination where antibiotics are commonly used.','Multidrug-Resistant Bacteria, Antibiotics, Antibiotic Resistance (AR), Antibiotic Resistance Genes (ARG), Kshripra River, MAR Index.','Enterobacteriaceae, which shows the resistance mechanisms against different types of test antibiotics. According to the obtained data with respect to multidrug-resistant bacteria, which shows the resistance mechanism against different test antibiotics, it can be concluded that the Kshripra River is facing a water quality change problem and there is a threat of antibiotic resistance occurrence among Enterobacteriaceae members of this aquatic water ecosystem. So some necessary measures must be taken by higher authorities to prevent unprocessed wastewater discharge to this river and to execute different types of biological filtration processes for the degradation of antibiotics before their discharge into the river water. In this way, we can prevent the spreading of multidrug-resistant bacteria and save mankind against the occurrence of different types of water-borne diseases that occur with multidrug-resistant bacteria','-','Hinore J.S., Dass P. and Ishaque S. (2024). A Study on Analysing Gram Negative Multidrug-Resistant Enteric Bacteria from the River Kshripa, Ujjain (MP), India. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 16(2): 32-41.'),(8310,'176','Efficacy of Soil Amendments with Organic Manures, Lantana camara and Microalgae Against Alternaria alternata of Stevia (Stevia rebaudiana)','V. Praveen Kumar and Sobita Simon','Efficacy-of-Soil-Amendments-with-Organic-Manures-Lantana-camara-and-Microalgae-Against-Alternaria-alternata-of-Stevia-(Stevia-rebaudiana)-V-Praveen-Kumar-8.pdf','',1,'Stevia rebaudiana (Bertoni) is a herbaceous perennial plant of the Asteraceae family, native to Paraguay (South America). It is also known as the \"sweetest plant of the world\". Stevia is a semi-humid subtropical plant, is prone to Alternaria leaf spot, a major foliar disease caused by Alternaria alternata. Managing this fungal disease is crucial for optimal stevia cultivation. In a field experiment at SHUATS, Prayagraj, various organic manures, including Farmyard Manure (FYM), spent mushroom compost (SMC), neem cake (NC), Lantana camara, and microalgae, were evaluated for their effectiveness against alternaria leaf spot, growth, and yield of stevia. Among the ten treatments, T9 – FYM + SMC + NC + Lantana camara + microalgae significantly reduced disease intensity at 45 and 90 days after treatment (10.65% and 23.32%). This treatment also excelled in plant height at 30, 60, and 90 days after treatment (59.76 cm), with the maximum number of suckers and fresh and dry leaf weights recorded at 45 and 90 days. The results highlight the potential of combining organic manures to reduce disease intensity while enhancing stevia growth and yield. The experiment took place during the Rabi season of 2021-2022. ','Alternaria alternata, Farmyard manure, Lantana camara, Neem Cake, Microalgae, Spent Mushroom Compost','The current field experimental investigation reveals that the most substantial reduction in disease occurred with the combination treatment T9 – incorporating Farm Yard Manure (FYM), neem cake, Soil Moisture Conservation (SMC), Lantana camara, and Microalgae, showing a noteworthy decrease of 23.32%, as opposed to the control group (46.03%). Consequently, it can be deduced that the application of bio resources effectively mitigates foliar Alternaria leaf spot, diminishes disease intensity, and enhances the overall growth of stevia.','-','V. Praveen Kumar and Sobita Simon (2024). Efficacy of Soil Amendments with Organic Manures, Lantana camara and Microalgae Against Alternaria alternata of Stevia (Stevia rebaudiana). Biological Forum – An International Journal, 16(2): 42-46.'),(8311,'156','An Overview of Traditional Harvesting of Honey in Hyderabad – Karnataka Region, Kalaburagi, Karnataka, India','Sandhya Divakar and K. Vijaykumar','An-Overview-of-Traditional-Harvesting-of-Honey-in-Hyderabad-Karnataka-Region,-Kalaburagi,-Karnataka,-India-Sandhya-Divakar-164.pdf','',1,'The indigenous harvesting of honey from various species of honeybees involves a symbiotic relationship between the community and nature, showcasing a sustainable approach to honey collection the diverse species of honeybees in the region and the traditional knowledge passed down through generations is significance and unique harvesting method. The Lambani, Soliga, Jenu Kuruba and Hakki Pikki are among the tribes that traditionally engage in honey harvesting practices. Local communities often practice traditional methods, such as beekeeping in log hives or tree cavities The main honeybee species involved include Apis cerana, Apis dorsata, and Apis florea. The Munda community, often referred to as the \"Mondal\" community, is one of the Adivasi (indigenous) groups in the state of West Bengal, India. Traditional storage involves containers made of locally available materials, such as clay pots or wooden boxes, designed to preserve the natural qualities of the honey. Modern beekeepers in the region often use food-grade plastic or glass jars for honey storage.','Honey, Traditional method, Harvesting, Tribe, Storage',' In conclusion, the traditional harvesting of honey in the Hyderabad Karnataka region represents a time-honoured practice deeply rooted in the cultural and ecological fabric of the area. This age-old method of honey extraction not only sustains local livelihoods but also contributes to the conservation of biodiversity and the promotion of sustainable beekeeping practices. The process of traditional honey harvesting involves a meticulous and symbiotic relationship between the beekeepers and the natural environment. Local beekeepers, often following practices passed down through generations demonstrate a profound understanding of the intricate dynamics within their ecosystems. This knowledge is crucial in ensuring a delicate balance between human activities and the preservation of the native flora and fauna. One of the key aspects of traditional honey harvesting in the Hyderabad Karnataka region is the use of indigenous bee species, such as the rock bee (Apis dorsata). These species have adapted to the local climate and vegetation, playing a vital role in pollination and maintaining the ecological equilibrium. By relying on native bees, traditional beekeepers contribute to the preservation of these essential pollinators, fostering a sustainable coexistence between humans and the environment.\r\nMoreover, the traditional method emphasizes the use of natural and organic practices. Beekeepers in the region avoid the use of synthetic chemicals and pesticides, prioritizing the health of both the bees and the consumers. This approach aligns with the growing global awareness of the importance of sustainable and eco-friendly agricultural practices, positioning traditional honey harvesting as a model for responsible beekeeping. The traditional honey harvesting process is not just a means of economic sustenance but also a cultural heritage that fosters a sense of community and identity. The knowledge and skills associated with traditional beekeeping are often passed down through generations, creating a sense of continuity and interconnectedness with the land (Basavarajappa et al., 2011). This cultural aspect adds a unique dimension to the practice, making it more than just an economic activity—it is a way of life deeply intertwined with the region\'s history and identity. While the traditional method of honey harvesting in Hyderabad Karnataka has numerous merits, it faces challenges in the modern era. Rapid urbanization, changing land use patterns, and the encroachment of monoculture agriculture pose threats to the natural habitats of indigenous bee species. Additionally, there is a need to strike a balance between traditional practices and modern beekeeping technologies to enhance productivity while maintaining the integrity of the ecosystems.\r\nIn conclusion, the traditional harvesting of honey in the Hyderabad Karnataka region stands as a beacon of sustainable and culturally rich beekeeping practices. It showcases the harmonious relationship between humans and nature, emphasizing the importance of preserving traditional knowledge and embracing ecologically sound approaches. As the region navigates the challenges of the contemporary world, there is an opportunity to integrate the wisdom of traditional beekeeping with modern innovations, ensuring the continued success and relevance of this age-old practice.\r\n','-','Sandhya Divakar and K. Vijaykumar (2023). An Overview of Traditional Harvesting of Honey in Hyderabad – Karnataka Region, Kalaburagi, Karnataka, India. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 15(4): 1000-1003.'),(8312,'172','Sugarcane Clones Suitable for Water logged Conditions of Andhra Pradesh','Ch. Mukunda Rao, P.S. Rao, M. Charumathi, D. Adilakshmi and T. Chitkala Devi, M. Bharathalakshmi and P.V.K. Jagannadha Rao','Sugarcane-Clones-Suitable-for-Water-logged-Conditions-of-Andhra-Pradesh-PS-Rao-66.pdf','',1,'Sixteen pre-release sugarcane clones were tested against sugarcane varieties 87A 298 and 83V 15 as checks for their suitability to water logged/ Inundated conditions at Regional Agricultural Research Station, Anakapalle during 2020-21, 2021-22 and 2022-23. Sugarcane clones tolerant to water logging/ Inundation is need of the hour as sugarcane yields are drastically reducing due to situation of water logging. Field experiments were conducted with creation of water logging during grand growth stage of sugarcane for evaluation of sugarcane clones tolerance to water logging/Inundation conditions. Among fifteen prerelease sugarcane clones tested sugarcane clones 2015A 233 (88.78 t/ha), 2015A 57 (79.84 t/ha), 2015A 59 (79.44 t/ha), 2015A 93 (78.97 t/ha) and 2006A 102 (78.63 t/ha) recorded higher cane yield over other clones tested under water logging/ inundation. The standards 87A298 and 83V 15 recorded a cane yield of 73.30 t/ha and 76.06 t/ha which are lower than the superior clones. These clones also recorded significantly low SLA which indicates more photosynthetic assimilates per unit area and SPAD/SCMR values under water logging (Grand growth stage). These sugarcane clones also recorded significantly higher SPAD/SCMR values over standard 87A 298 (20.86). The ancillary data denoting water logging tolerance like sheath moisture per cent at water logging, root spread area, total bio mass production per stool underwater logging and physiological parameters like leaf proline content (169.98 to 182.29 µ moles/gr. fresh weight) is also high in these sugarcane clones denoting water logging stress tolerance. Based on three years findings, sugarcane clones 2015A 233, 2015A 15, 2015A 59, 2015A 93and 2006A 192 were found to be suitable for water logging/inundation/ flooding conditions of cane cultivation based on cane yield, ancillary data and physiological traits in relation to water logging tolerance. The dead cane percent was ranged from 6.29% (87A 298) to 25.13% (2015A 230). The standards 87A 298 and 83V 15 recorded a dead canes percent of 6.29% and 18.35% respectively. The green leaves percent at water logging was high in sugarcane clones 2007A 81 (89.55) followed by 2015A 199 (88.50) and 2015A 187 (87.38) which are lesser than standard 87A 298 (90.29%). ','Water logging, Chlorophyll Stability Index, SPAD, leaf proline, Membrane injury index','Among 16 sugarcane clones studied in comparison with standards 87A298 and 83V15 under waterlogging stress conditions, sugarcane clones 2015A 233, 2015A 51, 2015A 59, 2015A 93 and 2006A 102 are found suitable for cane cultivation under waterlogging/ flooding/ Inundation situations of cane cultivation based on cane yield and quality parameter s in relation to ancillary yield parameters and physiological waterlogging tolerance traits.','-','Ch. Mukunda Rao, P.S. Rao, M. Charumathi, D. Adilakshmi and T. Chitkala Devi, M. Bharathalakshmi and P.V.K. Jagannadha Rao (2024). Sugarcane Clones Suitable for Water logged Conditions of Andhra Pradesh. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 16(1): 323-329.'),(8313,'176','Impact of Crop Insurance Scheme on Agriculture','Preeti Devi, Sonia Rani and D.R. Thakur','Impact-of-Crop-Insurance-Scheme-on-Agriculture-Preeti-Devi-9.pdf','',1,'The purpose of the current study, \"Impact of crop insurance scheme on agriculture\", is to determine the consequences of the crop insurance policy. The sampling procedure with several phases was applied. Ghumarwin and Bilaspur Sadar were the two blocks in the Bilaspur district that were selected. Two panchayats were arbitrarily selected from each block for the second phase. During the third stage, two villages were selected at random from each panchayat. In the fourth phase, five farmers from each hamlet were randomly selected to participate in the wheat crop insurance program, while the other five farmers did not. In contrast to respondents who were not recipients of crop insurance, all benefit respondents (100%) stated that they intended to use crop insurance. ','Crop insurance scheme, beneficiaries, non- beneficiaries and respondents','Farmers that received benefits from this program reported higher impact on socioeconomic parameters, such as increased savings and investment levels, comfort in loan closures during times of unanticipated losses, and ease in trying new crops in the field. The sample non-loanee farmers seek more credit for farming in order to cover the costs of cultivation and maintain their livelihoods, according to research on the factors influencing credit requirements under NAIS.','-','Preeti Devi, Sonia Rani and D.R. Thakur (2024). Impact of Crop Insurance Scheme on Agriculture. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 16(2): 47-49.'),(8314,'172','Performance of Pineapple varieties (Ratoon Crop)','D.K. Debata','Performance-of-Pineapple-varieties-(Ratoon-Crop)-DK-Debata-67.pdf','',1,'One experiment was conducted to evaluate the yield of pine apple varieties (ratoon) with a view to find out suitable variety for North Eastern Ghat Region at RRTTS, G. Udayagiri during 2020-23. Three varieties are taken viz., Queen, Berhmpur local and Simachal (ratoon). It was observed that in the ratoon crop in Berhampur local has yielded highest i.e. 166.20 qha-1, due to higher percentage of flowering plants (49.0) and high average fruit weight of 640g.','Pineapple, Berhampur local, Varieties, Ratoon','It is possible to grow pineapples with careful attention to soil management, irrigation, and temperature control. Selecting appropriate pineapple varieties Berhampur local for ratoon that are better suited to subtropical conditions can also enhance the chances of successful cultivation.','-','D.K. Debata (2024). Performance of Pineapple varieties (Ratoon Crop) Biological Forum – An International Journal, 16(1): 330-332.'),(8315,'156','Assessment of Carbon Stocks in Dominated Forest of Palash of the Malwa Plateau Region of the India','Vivechana Rajpoot, Sulekha Joshi and Bhuri Singh','Assessment-of-Carbon-Stocks-in-Dominated-Forest-of-Palash-of-the-Malwa-Plateau-Region-of-the-India-Vivechana-Rajpoot-165.pdf','',1,'The present study was carried out to estimate the C-stocks in the dominated palash forest of the Malwa plateau region of the India through forest inventory. Stem density (ha−1), tree height (m), diameter at breast height (DBH) (m), basal area (m2. ha-1), tree volume (m3. ha-1), total biomass (Kg.ha-1), and total C-stock (Kg. ha-1), were determined. Stem density varied between 34.00 to 39.00 trees ha-1, with a mean value of 36.25 tress ha-1. The average tree height (m), DBH (m), basal area (m2. ha-1) and tree volume (m3. ha-1) were 5.96, 0.28,0.03 and 0.53 respectively. The estimated total biomass (Kg. ha-1) was ranging 127.00 to 150.00 with an average value of 139.25. The calculated Carbon stock (Kg. ha-1) in the dominated forest of palash ranged from 57.00 to 67.00 and the mean Carbon stocks was 62.50. Semi interquartile range (SIQR) and Interquartile range (IQR) values of Stem density (ha−1), tree height (m), DBH (m), basal area (m2. ha-1), tree volume (m3. ha-1), total biomass (Kg. ha-1), and total C-stock (Kg. ha-1) are 0.56 and 1.06, 1.50 and 2.84,0.06 and 0.11,0.02 and 0.03,0.08 and 0.16,2.51 and 4.77 and 1.13 and 2.15. A significant Polynomial cubic positive (R2 = 0.999) relationship was observed between total biomass with basal area. The results of the study confirmed that the dominated forest of palash acts as a valuable sink of carbon, but this valuable storage factory of carbon faced the problems of excess uses of wood for domestic purpose and no scientific management. Proper utilization and scientific management of the forest can be significant measures to enhance the potential of the forest to stored and sink more carbon.','Biomass, Carbon stocks, Jhalawar forest, Palash and Tree girth','The present study was aimed to find out the growing stock, biomass and carbon stock in the dominated palash forest of Malwa plateau region of India. The palash forest belongs to the local community. The local community used the forest for the purposes of fuel wood and for forage for their livestock. The finding of the study that the palash forest stored about 57.0 to 67.0 Kg∙ha−1 of carbon in their total biomass. The study confirmed that the dominated palash forest of Malwa plateau region of India is valuable sink of carbon. But this valuable storage factory faced threats in terms of excess use of wood, forage, domestic uses and unscientific management. The proper scientific management and proper utilization of the forest, rehabilitation of degraded forest and afforestation and reforestation can be significant measures to enhance the potential of the forest to stored and sink more carbon. Furthermore, this study also frames a working plan and forest protocol regarding growing stock, biomass and carbon stock assessed in the dominated forest of palash of Malwa plateau region of India for future.','-','Vivechana Rajpoot, Sulekha Joshi and Bhuri Singh (2023). Assessment of Carbon Stocks in Dominated Forest of Palash of the Malwa Plateau Region of the India. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 15(4): 1004-1011.'),(8316,'174','Nutritional Qualities and Climate Change Induced Shift in Habitat Distribution of Morchella esculenta (L.) Pers. in Himachal Pradesh: A Review','Hem Chander and Anchal Sharma','Nutritional-Qualities-and-Climate-Change-Induced-Shift-in-Habitat-Distribution-of-Morchella-esculenta-(L.)-Pers.-in-Himachal-Pradesh-A-Review-Hem-Chander-5.pdf','',1,'Morchella esculenta (L.) Pers. commonly known as ‘Guchhi’, is nutritionally & medicinally important and is one of the expensive mushrooms. The mycelium of this fungus is commonly present as a mycorrhiza or in saprobic relationship with hardwood and coniferous trees in the temperate climate zone of the Himalaya including Himachal Pradesh. Recently, Morchella esculenta has also been reported from the tropical or sub-tropical regions of Himachal Pradesh. The formation and occurrence of Morchella fruiting bodies at lower altitudes has been attributed to the climate variations due to global warming. Its fruiting season is from March-July. Nutritionally, this mushroom contains carbohydrates, proteins, all important vitamins, minerals and aromatic compounds. It possesses a wide range of pharmacological properties including antioxidant, antitumor, antimicrobial and anti-inflammatory, also act as an immune-stimulant due to the presence of various active constituents. Ethno-botanically it is used as laxative, purgative, emollient, body tonic, heals the wound and also used for stomach problems. Due to its high commercial cost it plays a very important role in the economy of rural populace. Morchella had been reported from sub-tropical and tropical regions of Himachal Pradesh. It had also been reported from the Faizabad and Mount Abu (Rajasthan) at less than 1300m altitude. Various environmental factors such as temperature, pH, light, gaseous regime and disturbance may cause the development of fruiting bodies of Morchella. The review reveals that there are very few eco-physiological studies on the erratic occurrence of this mushroom in tropical regions.','Climate change, Gucchi, Himachal Pradesh, Himalaya, Morchella esculenta','Morchella esculenta is an edible fungus. It is one of the most highly priced mushrooms found in the world. It is found at altitude of 2500-3500 m in forest habitat. The growing season of Morchella esculenta is from March to July. In this study the climate change effects on Morchella esculenta in Himachal Pradesh were reviewed. Because usually Morchella is found in the temperate zones mostly. But recently the habitat of the Morchella esculenta and other Morchella species are shifted toward the tropical zones. Morchella esculenta is the most important and precious fungal plant which plays an important role in the economy and the price depends upon the quality. It has been consumed and appreciated for its nutritional value as well as medicinal properties. For centuries, Morchella esculenta has been consumed and appreciated for its nutritional value as well as medicinal properties. Morels have adapted to a wide range of unusual habitats and environmental conditions, including river bottoms, dunes, garbage dumps, abandoned coal mines, cellars and basements, saw mills, wood piles, sand bars in rivers, road cuts, excavations, deer trails, orchards, bomb craters and limed soils. It contains all the important nutrients, from carbohydrates, proteins, polyunsaturated fatty acids, secondary metabolites like phenolic compounds, etc.\r\nThere are various studies done on the active constituents and nutritional aspects of Morchella esculenta. But there are very few studies done on the climate change effects on Morchella esculenta.\r\nFruiting body of Morchella esculenta contains a broad range of active constituents which include carotenoids, tocopherols, phenolic compounds and organic acids. Carotenoids contain β-carotene and Lycopene. Morel species are reported to minimize oxidative damage in organisms that occurs in several chronic diseases. Previous studies have reported the antioxidant activity of mushrooms specially Morchella esculenta. Mycelia of Morchella esculenta possess beta-carotene and linoleic acid which exhibit antioxidant activities. Mycelia of Morchella esculenta contain antimicrobial properties. Powder of Morchella esculenta can be used as an antiseptic to heal the wounds and used for the treatment of stomach ache. Anti-inflammatory activity of morels was reported, showing significant dose-dependent inhibition of both acute and chronic inflammation. Polysaccharides extracted from Morchella esculenta are potentially tumor resistant. Morchella esculenta also acts as immune stimulant due to the presence of various active constituents. Morchella esculenta is also low in fat and contain low calories. Morchella esculenta contains 38% carbohydrates, 32.7% protein, 17.6% fibre, 9.7% ash and 2.0% fat. Morels are consumed worldwide as food, and in Tibet and India are cooked with vegetables and considered as nutritious as meat or fish. Protein obtained from the mycelia of Morchella esculenta are comparable to vegetative protein and can be used as a good source of protein supplement. It is rich in protein which can be more easily digested than other vegetables.\r\nMorels are cold tolerant and have been found to give fructification at temperature less than 5.6°C. Morels are widely distributed in the temperate zones but from past few years morels are reported from the tropical zones. There are also some news reports on Gucchi reported from sub-tropical and tropical regions. Some reports (research reports) on gucchi at different temperature are also discussed in review of literature. A wide range of environmental factors influence the timing and development of fruit bodies, including nutritional factors, gaseous regime, pH, light, microclimate, disturbance, and inter- and intra – specific mycelia interaction. Mycorrhizal fungi can be affected indirectly via effects of elevated CO2 on plant physiology and on fixed carbon entering soil from roots. The shady location, higher altitude and western aspect gave the idea that Morchella specifically requires less sunlight and cool climate.\r\nThe one of the major finding are that the Morchella is also reported from some sub- tropical and tropical zones due to climate change. Because usually the Morchella is found in the temperate zones but now the Morchella spp. are also found in the tropical regions. Morchella esculenta is one of the most highly prized edible mushroom in the world. This edible fungus grows on soil rich in organic matter, in loamy soil and is found in various habitats such as coniferous forests, apple orchards, grassy places, etc. It contains a wide range of active constituents which include tocopherols, carotenoids, organic acids, polysaccharides and phenolic acid which exhibit a wide range of medicinal and pharmacological properties including anti-microbial, anti- inflammatory, immunostimulatory, antitumor and antioxidant. Nutritionally, it contains carbohydrates, proteins, fibers, all important vitamins, and minerals. This fungus is very expensive, hence called “growing gold of mountains” and it contributes a major role in country’s economy. There are very few studies done on the climatic effects on Morchella esculenta. There are various environmental factors which affects the fungal fruiting. Environmental factors such as organic matter amount, pH, metal concentration in soil and fungal factors such as species of mushroom, morphological part of fruiting body, development stages and age of mycelium, biochemical composition, and interval between the fructifications affects the metal accumulation in macro fungi. Effects of climate change on fungal distribution and activity are hard to predict because they are mediated in many different ways, including: fungal physiology, reproduction and survival, host physiology, spatial and temporal distribution of hosts and resource availability, and outcome of competitive interspecific interactions. Fructification of bodies of morel fungi are highly valued for their medicinal and nutritional qualities. Investigations have shown that there is a stage in the life cycle of morels called the sclerotium. It is also experimentally demonstrated that sclerotia are essential in production of fructifications under controlled conditions. A wide range of environmental factors influence the timing and development of fruit bodies, including nutritional factors, gaseous regime, pH, light, microclimate, disturbance, and inter and intra-specific mycelia interaction. Many ascomycete species require exposure to light before they will fruit. Due to the various changes in environment, morels are also found in tropical or sub tropical zones. The fruiting body of Morchella esculenta are low in fat and calories but rich in protein. So mushroom is one of the best plant to study and to gain knowledge about especially Morchella esculenta because there are very few studies done on the climatic effects on Morchella esculenta and on other Morchella species. \r\nThere is a wide range of scope in the future on this topic i.e. climate change induced shift in distribution of Morchella esculenta (L.) Pers. in Himachal Pradesh. There are many studies on the Morchella esculenta like active constituents of Morchella esculenta and nutritional aspects of Morchella esculenta but there are very few studies on the climate change effects on Morchella esculenta. So, there is still need to study about the various climatic factors that affects the Morchella esculenta. This is a very interesting topic and this topic also have a great research scope in the future.\r\n','-','Hem Chander and Anchal Sharma (2023). Nutritional Qualities and Climate Change Induced Shift in Habitat Distribution of Morchella esculenta (L.) Pers. in Himachal Pradesh: A Review. International Journal on Emerging Technologies, 14(2): 30–52.'),(8317,'171','Three New Additions of Angiosperms from Kanyakumari Wildlife Sanctuary to the Flora of Tamil Nadu, India','Rakesh G. Vadhyar and K.A. Sujana','Three-New-Additions-of-Angiosperms-from-Kanyakumari-Wildlife-Sanctuary-to-the-Flora-of-Tamil-Nadu-India-KA-Sujana-13.pdf','',1,'Psidium guineense Sw., Syzygium syzygioides (Miq.) Merr. & L.M. Perry and Momordica sahyadrica Kattuk. & V.T. Antony., are reported from Kanyakumari Wildlife Sanctuary as new additions to the flora of Tamil Nadu. Nomenclature, description, images and other relevant details of these taxa have been provided here.','Momordica sahyadrica. Psidium guineense, Syzygium syzygioides, Western Ghats','Investigation of floristic composition and associated ecological parameters are important for locating the populations, reporting range extensions and biodiversity conservation as they provide a suitable environment for wildlife and sidewise contribute to the sustainable management of unique regional specific natural resources. ','-','-'),(8318,'176','In-vitro and In-vivo Management of Sclerotium rolfsii Sacc. causing Stem Rot in Chrysanthemum','Anjaneya Reddy B., Mohan Kumar K.S., Noorulla Haveri, Sreenatha A., Sudarshaan G.K., Seetharamu G.K. and Harish B.S. ','In-vitro-and-In-vivo-Management-of-Sclerotium-rolfsii-Sacc.-causing-Stem-Rot-in-Chrysanthemum-Anjaneya-Reddy-10.pdf','',1,'Chrysanthemum (Dendranthema grandiflora Ramat), is one of the most beautiful and perhaps the oldest flowering plants commercially grown in different parts of the world. Sclerotium rolfsii, the soil-borne saprophytic fungus which causes different types of diseases like collar-rot, sclerotium wilt, stem-rot, charcoal rot, etc., in more than 500 plants species. Recently, S. rolfsii associated with stem rot disease on chrysanthemum has been observed in few farmer fields of Bengaluru Rural and Hassan districts in Karnataka. The disease incidence was up to 20-30 per cent in 2018-19. The effect of 12 different fungicides against the growth of Sclerotium rolfsii was studied under in-vitro conditions using poisoned food technique. Among the contact fungicides Captan 50%WP at 1000 ppm showed the highest inhibition per cent (80%) of mycelial growth. Among the systemic fungicides, Tebuconazole 25.9% EC showed 100% inhibition of mycelial growth at 100ppm itself. Among combi products Pyraclostrobin 133g/l +Epoxiconazole 50g/l SE, Carboxin 37.5%+Thiram 37.5% WP showed 100% inhibition of mycelial growth at 300ppm itself. Integrated disease management studies were conducted under polyhouse conditions, and among the fungicides, soil application of Tebuconazole (0.1%) suppress the growth of S. rolfsii with 0% mortality. Among the organic amendments, Neem cake (30g/plant) was effective on the suppression of S. rolfsii with PDI of 20.83%. Among the bioagents P. fluorescence (10g/plant) and T. harzianum (10g/plant) suppress the growth of S. rolfsii with PDI of 22.60% and 16.24 % respectively.','Sclerotium rolfsii, Percent disease incidence, Trichoderma harzianum, In- vitro, In-vivo, Management','The Sclerotium rolfsii is a serious soil borne pathogen, affecting many crop plants including chrysanthemum. To manage this pathogen in chrysanthemum Tebuconazole 25.9 % EC @ 1ml/lt. of water is the best for soil drenching as a chemical means and utilization of Neem cake @30 g/kg of soil, followed by Trichoderma harzianum@10g/pl, Pseudomonas fluorescens@10g/pl and Arka microbial consortium @5 ml/pl as a organic means is the best as organic means.','-','Anjaneya Reddy B., Mohan Kumar K.S., Noorulla Haveri, Sreenatha A., Sudarshaan G.K., Seetharamu G.K. and Harish B.S. (2024). In-vitro and In-vivo Management of Sclerotium rolfsii Sacc. causing Stem Rot in Chrysanthemum. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 16(2): 51-56.'),(8319,'168','Population Dynamics of Maruca vitrata Fabricius on Vegetable cowpea Genotypes during Summer, 2021 and kharif, 2021','Mirala Sruthi, Pravasini Behera, S.K. Mukherjee, J. Padhi, P. Tripathy and K.C. Samal ','Population-Dynamics-of-Maruca-vitrata-Fabricius-on-Vegetable-cowpea-Genotypes-during-Summer,-2021-and-kharif,-2021-Mirala-Sruthi-305.pdf','',1,'The present study was conducted to study the population dynamics of spotted pod borer, Maruca vitrata Fab. in vegetable cowpea for two consecutive seasons viz., summer and kharif 2021. The highest number of larval population was recorded during 15th Standard Meteorological Week (SMW) in summer 2021 and 36th Standard Meteorological Week (SMW) in kharif 2021, coinciding with the peak flowering stage (days to 50% flowering) of vegetable cowpea. The results indicate the key pest the population dynamics and seasonal abundance status of this pod borer species in the region.','Maruca vitrata, population dynamics, seasonal abundance, vegetable cowpea','An analysis of the population dynamics of M. vitrata, considering the phenology of crop development, will provide information on the specific time when the presence of this species is at its highest and when its activity is at its lowest. This data may be utilised to modify the duration of agricultural cultivation, determine the optimal dates for planting, and implement plant protection strategies to control insect populations. The highest occurrence of M. vitrata was recorded during the period of peak flowering and pod formation stage. ','-','Mirala Sruthi, Pravasini Behera, S.K. Mukherjee, J. Padhi, P. Tripathy and K.C. Samal (2023). Population Dynamics of Maruca vitrata Fabricius on Vegetable cowpea Genotypes during Summer, 2021 and kharif, 2021. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 15(10): 1675-1685.'),(8320,'168','Population Dynamics of Shoot and Fruit Borer, Leucinodes orbonalis Guenee infesting Brinjal and its Natural Enemy, Trathala flavo-orbitalis in context with Weather Parameters at Bhubaneswar, Odisha','P.K. Prusti, M.K. Tripathy, R. Mohapatra, P. Tripathy and R. Bhola','Population-Dynamics-of-Shoot-and-Fruit-Borer-Leucinodes-orbonalis-Guenee-infesting-Brinjal-and-its-Natural-Enemy-Trathala-flavo-orbitalis-in-context-with-Weather-Parameters-PK-Prusti-306.pdf','',1,'A field experiment was carried out in the research farm of Department of Entomology, OUAT, Bhubaneswar during 2021-22 to study the population fluctuation of shoot and fruit borer of brinjal and its natural enemy Trathala flavo-orbitalis. The results revealed that the infestation of shoot and fruit borer recorded two distinct peaks in different growing seasons of study period, 2021-22. During summer 2021,rabi 2021-22 and kharif 2022, the peaks of larval intensity were recorded on18th (8.73 larvae/Plant/week) and 24th (7.17 larvae/Plant/week) SMW, 12th (5.54 larvae/Plant/week) and 17th (6.86 larvae/Plant/week) SMW and 36th (7.72 larvae/Plant/week) and 42nd (6.48 larvae/Plant/week) SMW respectively. All the temperature factors (maximum, minimum and average) were found to be positively correlated with the population density and infestation of this pest during the three seasons of study period. Morning relative humidity was found to have a negative influence. During summer 2021, wind velocity (Correlation coefficient=0.764) and pan evaporation (r=0.663) showed significant positive correlation with pheromone trap catch. The parasitisation of natural enemy, T.flavo-orbitalis had significant positive correlation with all temperature factors during rabi season and non- significant positive correlation during summer and kharif seasons. Also, during summer, morning relative humidity showed significant negative correlation (r=-0.594) with parasitisation whereas afternoon relative humidity had positive significant correlation (r=0.668) during rabi season. Pan evaporation was found to be positively correlated (0.680) during rabi, 2021-22. Among the studied weather parameters, temperature, relative humidity and pan evaporation had maximum contribution towards the population of brinjal shoot and fruit borer.','Brinjal Shoot and Fruit borer, Bhubaneswar, Weather parameters, Population dynamics, Trathala flavo-orbitalis','The correlation studies revealed that the damage by Leucinodes orbonalis showed positive correlation with maximum temperature, minimum temperature and average temperature while negative correlation with morning relative humidity. The wind velocity and evaporation showed positive association whereas rainfall has non-significant impact on incidence of shoot and fruit borer of brinjal. As concerned to correlation of weather parameters with parasitisation by Trathala flavo-orbitalis, all the temperature factors had positive correlation. The coefficient of determination for fruit damage percent (weight basis) was found to be 0.456 to 0.958 which indicates that the climatic factors together were able to explain the impact of 45.60 to 95.80 % in different seasons of study period, 2021-22.','-','P.K. Prusti, M.K. Tripathy, R. Mohapatra, P. Tripathy and R. Bhola (2023). Population Dynamics of Shoot and Fruit Borer, Leucinodes orbonalis Guenee infesting Brinjal and its Natural Enemy, Trathala flavo-orbitalis in context with Weather Parameters at Bhubaneswar, Odisha. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 15(10): 1686-1693.'),(8321,'168','A Study on Profile Attributes of Clients Using Services of Selected ICT based Agristart-ups','Kalpna Shrivastava, Kamini Bisht, Ashish Kumar Nagar and Sanjana Shrivastava','A-Study-on-Profile-Attributes-of-Clients-Using-Services-of-Selected-ICT-based-Agristart-ups-Kalpna-Shrivastava-307.pdf','',1,'Agristart-up is the use of technology in agriculture, horticulture and aquaculturewith the aim of improving yield, efficiency and profitability. Aim of any organization is to reach out to their clients. Agristart-up can be products, services, or applications derived from agriculture that improves living standard of clients. The present study was carried out to know the profile attributes of selected agristart-ups clients in Indore district of Madhya Pradesh. Total 80 clients were selected through simple random sampling with replacement method. The results revealed that majority of clients were in middle age (71.25%), had education up to high school (31.25%), male (96.25%), who had small land holding (55.00%) cultivation (60.00%) as their primary occupation, medium farming experience (51.25%), with low social participation (73.75%), medium annual income (65.00%), formal source of credit (100.00%), medium level of information seeking behavior (60.00%).','Agristart-ups, products, services, clients, profile and attributes','Modern agriculture is moving away from conventional methods in order to utilize technology to increase output, profit, and client standards of living because customers have a direct or indirect impact on the success of agristart-ups so that an overview of the socio-personal characteristics of clients revealed that higher respondents belonged to middle age group and 31.25 per cent completed high school, in which mostly were male, more than half of respondents were having small (1.01-2.00 ha) land holdings, three-fifth clients were taking cultivation as main occupation, nearly half of respondents had medium farming experience (4.1 to 7 year), 73.75 per cent had low social participation. In economic, higher perentage had medium annual income (Rs 70438.01 to Rs 146062.00) whereas 60.00 per cent were having medium information seeking behaviour in communicational attributes. Agristart-ups desire to give their clients the advice and input they need to be effective enterprises. Agristartups\' performance or success is influenced on their clientele.','-','Kalpna Shrivastava, Kamini Bisht, Ashish Kumar Nagar and Sanjana Shrivastava (2023). A Study on Profile Attributes of Clients Using Services of Selected ICT based Agristart-ups. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 15(10): 1694-1697.'),(8322,'168','Seasonal Incidence of Major Insect Pests of Green gram in relation to Biotic and Abiotic factors in North Western Plain Zone of Rajasthan','Devendra Saini, Roop Singh Meena, Udai Pal Singh, Sudhir Pratap Singh and Ashok Sakharam Chandar','Seasonal-Incidence-of-Major-Insect-Pests-of-Green-gram-in-relation-to-Biotic-and-Abiotic-factors-in-North-Western-Plain-Zone-of-Rajasthan-Devendra-Saini-308.pdf','',1,'The investigation on “Seasonal incidence of major insect pests of green gram in relation to biotic and abiotic factors in North Western Plain Zone of Rajasthan’’ was carried out at Agricultural Research Station, Sriganganagar during Kharif-2022. Whitefly and thrips were appeared soon after crop germination (second week of August) of crop. The peak population of whitefly with 63.78 whiteflies/ 3 trifoliate leaves was recorded in the fourth week of August. While, thrips attained their peak in third week of August with 14.57 thrips/ 3 trifoliate leaves. The maximum population of spotted pod borer i.e. 3.40 larvae/ 5 plant with heights pod damage 33.80 per cent was observed in second week of September. The minimum temperature and minimum-maximum relative humidity had positive correlation with whitefly and thrips population, whereas maximum temperature had negative correlation with thrips and whitefly. The total rainfall exhibited negative influence on whitefly and positive on thrips population. The spotted pod borer population and per cent pod damage had negative correlation with minimum temperature, minimum maximum relative humidity and total rainfall and positive with maximum temperature, respectively. The activity of green lacewing, Chrysoperla carnea Step., started with the infestation of whitefly and thrips in third week of August (33rd standard meteorological week). The Chrysoperla carnea Step., Cheilomenes sexmaculata Fab. and spider were major natural enemies of insect pest on crop and became active with the appearance of insect pest. The natural enemies’ population had positive correlation with minimum-maximum temperature, relative maximum humidity and pest population and negative minimum relative humidity and total rainfall. ','Seasonal, correlation, infestation, natural enemies','The peak incidence of whitefly was noticed in the fourth week of August and thrips attained their peak in third week of August. The whitefly and thrips population had positive correlated with all abiotic factors except maximum temperature, whereas rainfall negatively influenced the whitefly population. However, maximum incidence of spotted pod borer, Maruca testulalis Geyer with highest pod damage was observed in second week of September and negatively correlated with all abiotic factors except maximum temperature. The Chrysoperla carnea Step, Cheilomenes sexmaculata Fab and spider reported as major natural enemies of insect pest on crop and became active with the appearance of insect pest.','-','Devendra Saini, Roop Singh Meena, Udai Pal Singh, Sudhir Pratap Singh and Ashok Sakharam Chandar (2023). Seasonal Incidence of Major Insect Pests of Green gram in relation to Biotic and Abiotic factors in North Western Plain Zone of Rajasthan. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 15(10): 1698-1701.'),(8323,'168','Occurrence and Pathology of Visceral Gout in Chickens','Udaya Sai Sitaram Tella, Mridusmrita Buragohain, Abhijit Deka, Sravan Kumar Reddy and M. Sai Kumar Reddy','Occurrence-and-Pathology-of-Visceral-Gout-in-Chickens-Udaya-Sai-Sitaram-Tella-309.pdf','',1,'The present study deals with the occurrence and pathology of Visceral gout in chickens. During 2021 and 2022, an incidence of visceral gout was recorded in the month of July and August in the carcasses brought to the Department of Pathology, CVSc, AAU, Khanapara. The mortality was 2.1% (i.e., 16) considering only among the month of July (i.e., 6), August (i.e., 10) and were diagnosed as Visceral gout. The effect of different breed and month on the occurrence of Visceral gout were studied. Mostly observed gross lesions include white chalky material on epicardial surface of heart and serosal surface of liver, spleen, lung and enlargement of kidneys with necrotic foci were found. On histopathological special staining with De Galantha revealed presence of urates crystals with black colour were recorded.','De Galantha, Visceral gout, urates crystals, breed, month','The motality was recorded in the month of July and August might due to the high humidity climate of Assam and the incidence of mortality was recorded in Kampura, Dahlem red and Daothigir breeds in descending grades of breed order during the study.','-','Udaya Sai Sitaram Tella, Mridusmrita Buragohain, Abhijit Deka, Sravan Kumar Reddy and M. Sai Kumar Reddy (2023). Occurrence and Pathology of Visceral Gout in Chickens. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 15(10): 1702-1703.'),(8324,'168','Influence of KNO3 and GA3 on Vegetative Growth of Dragon Fruit [Hylocereus costaricensis (Web.) Britton and Rose]','Tendul Chouhan, Sutanu Maji, Sarjesh Kumar Meena, Monika Bhanwariya, Krishna Jat and Razauddin and Neha ','Influence-of-KNO3-and-GA3-on-Vegetative-Growth-of-Dragon-Fruit-Hylocereus-costaricensis-Web-Britton-and-Rose-Tendul-Chouhan-310.pdf','',1,'Dragon fruit has become a promising high-value crop in India but has not so much awareness about its production technology. The present investigation was planned to evaluate the effect of some chemical and growth regulator applications on the growth of dragon fruit. The investigation had 9 treatments (T1 control, T2 - KNO3 @ 3 %, T3 - KNO3 @ 4 %, T4 - GA3 @ 50 ppm, T5 -GA3 @ 100 ppm, T6 - KNO3 @ 3% + GA3 @ 50 ppm, T7 - KNO3 @ 3 % + GA3 @ 100 ppm, T8 - KNO3 @ 4 % + GA3 @ 50 ppm, T9 - KNO3 @ 4 % + GA3 @ 100 ppm) with three replications laid out in Randomized Block Design. Different concentrations of GA3 and KNO3 were found to have a significant impact on the vegetative growth variables of dragon fruit plants. As a result, the present investigation found that combining the effect of GA3 and KNO3 in the form of treatment T7, i.e. KNO3@3% + GA3@100 ppm would be most effective for better vegetative growth such as average increase plant height (10.33cm), distance between areoles (0.21), the arch height (0.6mm), increased number of spines per areole (6.0) and growth of newly emerged shoots (26.6) of dragon fruit plant or in Northern India climatic conditions. Hence, the application of KNO3@3% + GA3 @100 ppm could be used for better plant growth and development of the dragon fruit.','Dragon fruit, vegetative growth, KNO3, GA3','As a result, the present investigation found that combining the effect of GA3 and KNO3 in the form of treatment T7, i.e. KNO3@3% + GA3@100 ppm would be most effective for better vegetative growth such as an average increase in plant height (10.33cm), distance between areoles (0.21), the arch height (0.6mm), increased number of spines per areole (6.0) and growth of newly emerged shoots (26.6) of dragon fruit plant or in Northern India climatic conditions.','-','Tendul Chouhan, Sutanu Maji, Sarjesh Kumar Meena, Monika Bhanwariya, Krishna Jat and Razauddin and Neha (2023). Influence of KNO3 and GA3 on Vegetative Growth of Dragon Fruit [Hylocereus costaricensis (Web.) Britton and Rose]. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 15(10): 1704-1707.'),(8325,'176','Study on Yield and Economics of Summer Green Gram Varieties Sown in Different Sowing Windows','T.R. Marthe, A.A. Choudhary, T. Lokesh and N.D. Chavhan ','Study-on-Yield-and-Economics-of-Summer-Green-Gram-Varieties-Sown-in-Different-Sowing-Windows-TR-Marthe-11.pdf','',1,'A field experiment entitled “Performance of green gram varieties in different sowing windows in summer season” was conducted during summer season of 2022-2023 with three green gram varieties at Agronomy Farm, College of Agriculture, Nagpur. The experiment was laid out in split plot design with four sowing windows i.e. 7th MW, 8th MW, 9th MW and 10th MW as main plot factor and three varieties viz. Pusa Vaishakhi, Shikha and Samrat as sub plot factor, replicated thrice. Key findings revealed that sowing during the 7th MW resulted in significantly higher yield attributing characters viz., number of pods plant-1, number of grains pod-1, number of grains plant-1, harvest index (%) and 100 grains weight along with grain and straw yield ha-1. Among the varieties, variety Pusa Vaishakhi recorded significantly higher values for these yield attributing characters. The gross and net monetary returns and benefit: cost ratio of green gram was significantly higher in crop sown during 7th MW and in variety Pusa Vaishakhi.','Green gram, sowing window, variety, grain yield, economics','Sowing of summer gram during 7th MW resulted in higher growth and yield compared to later sowing. Variety PusaVaishakhi recorded higher values for growth contributing characters, yield attributes and yield of summer green gram. Sowing window of 7th MW gave highest gross monetary returns, net monetary returns and benefit: cost ratio among all the sowing windows and among different varieties, variety Pusa Vaishakhi recorded highest gross monetary returns, net monetary returns and benefit: cost ratio.','-','T.R. Marthe, A.A. Choudhary, T. Lokesh and N.D. Chavhan (2024). Study on Yield and Economics of Summer Green Gram Varieties Sown in Different Sowing Windows. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 16(2): 57-59.'),(8326,'159','Isolation, Characterization and Plant Growth Promotion abilities of PSB Isolates from Millet Grown Fields','S. Vigi and S. Antony','Isolation-Characterization-and-Plant-Growth-Promotion-abilities-of-PSB-Isolates-from-Millet-Grown-Fields-S-Vigi-125.pdf','',1,'Despite the various forms of phosphorus present in soils, both organic and inorganic, they commonly serve as primary growth-limiting factors for plants. Although soil contains organic compounds with total phosphorus, the majority remains dormant and inaccessible to plants. Enhancing phosphorus solubilization through bacteria and inoculants can significantly boost crop production and the absorption of phosphorus by plants. The phosphate-solubilizing bacteria (PSB) released a substantial amount of phosphorous, with productive strains in rhizosphere soils showing particularly high levels of phosphorus release. To eliminate duplication among isolates from the same sample, three strains were carefully chosen based on distinct colony morphological traits and ability of phosphate solubilization. Morphological and biochemical tests, coupled with growth promotion studies, were conducted on these isolates for identification. Subsequently, these selected isolates were made available for further molecular research, revealing their classification as members of Burkholderia sp. through 16s rRNA sequence analysis. Roll towel assay was used for assessing the seedling vigour index of Bajra after seed priming with the PSB isolates. Hence, phosphate solubilising bacteria isolated from millet fields could be used as plant growth promoting bioagents. ','PSB, pikovyskayas medium, phosphate solubilization, millets, organic acids','The current findings suggest that phosphate solubilising bacterial isolates had better efficiency in plant growth promotion by production of phytohormones and seedling vigour index assay. It is revealed that Burkholderia cepacia PSB 13 could be a promising phosphate solubilizing bioagent with plant growth promotion activity. The increase in plant growth promotion might be due to the higher production of IAA and GA. Phosphate solubilizing isolates with plant growth promoting potential to be applied as biofertilizer for sustainable agriculture has been identified in this study. They can be exploited for commercial production after further evaluations. It is advisable to have a consortium made with different isolates obtained from the same crop plant than the individual isolates for the use in plant health management as many with varying PGP traits act together and perform in a better way. The biopriming treatment enhanced the plant growth through various direct mechanisms such as production of IAA, GA, ammonia, HCN, siderophore, ACC deaminase activity, nitrogen fixation and phosphorus solubilization. Moreover, it is concluded that, PSB isolates offer promising opportunities for improving soil fertility, promoting plant growth, and enhancing environmental sustainability in agriculture.','-','S. Vigi and S. Antony (2023). Isolation, Characterization and Plant Growth Promotion abilities of PSB Isolates from Millet Grown Fields. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 15(6): 810-818.'),(8327,'171','Biocontrol Potential of Isolated Native Strain of EPNs from Southern Rajasthan against Plutella xylostella (Linnaeus) (Lepidoptera:Plutellidae)','Ankit Kumar V., S. Ramesh Babu, Vijay Kumar and Bhanu Partap Singh','Biocontrol-Potential-of--Isolated-Native-Strain-of-EPNs-from-Southern-Rajasthan-against-Plutella-xylostella-(Linnaeus)-(LepidopteraPlutellidae)-Ankit-Kumar-14.pdf','',1,'The diamondback moth, Plutella xylostella L., is a serious pest of cole crops. It has developed resistance to several pesticides, including as Bt toxins and chemical insecticides. An effective substitute for chemical pesticides in the management of the diamondback moth is the use of suitable bio-agents. The purpose of the current study was to control diamondback moths using an entomopathogenic nematode (EPN) strain from southern Rajasthan. To determine the virulence and reproductive capacity of an indigenous population, laboratory investigations were conducted using five dosages of the diamondback moth—50, 100, 200, 400, and 1000 IJs per third instar. The percentage of fatalities was noted 24 and 48 hours following the vaccination. With the highest dose, 600 IJs per larva, the maximum percent mortality (66%) was observed after 48 hours, and the LC50 value was 735 IJs/larva. Overall, the data clearly indicated that P. xylostella is more vulnerable to entomopathogenic nematodes and may serve as a host for their growth in laboratory settings.','S. siamkayai, Plutella xylostella, Heterorhabditis, Steinernematidae','The present investigation provides basic knowledge regarding the efficacy of entomopathogenic nematode S. bicornutum against Pluttella xylostella. The results strongly suggested that the diamondback moth, Plutella xylostella is susceptible to the entomopathogenic nematode. A thorough investigation at field level on this aspect to develop S. bicornutum as a pest control agent, is necessary.','-','-'),(8328,'159','GCMS Analysis of Phytoconstituents in Leaf Extract of Drypetes roxburghii and its Neuroprotective Potential','Mohd Afzal, Mohammad Asif and Abdul Hafeez ','GCMS-Analysis-of-Phytoconstituents-in-Leaf-Extract-of-Drypetes-roxburghii-and-its-Neuroprotective-Potential-Mohammad-Asif-126.pdf','',1,'The study deals with the determination of neuroprotective effect of crude extract Drypetes roxburghii leaves. In this study, the crude extract of leaves of D. roxburghii was obtained and the phytochemical composition was analyzed using GC-MS. Afterwards, the acute oral toxicity of the extract was performed using OECD 420, based on which two doses, 100 and 200 mg/kg BW, were selected for further pharmacological evaluation. The Neuroprotective activity of the extract was evaluated in regard to its anti-epileptic, anti-anxiety, anti-depressant, muscle relaxant, and anti-oxidant activity. The mentioned activities were performed using various experimental animal models. The data was analyzed using graph pad prism, version 9. P<0.05 was selected as criteria of statistical significance. The results of the study revealed that the crude extract was found to be rich in many medicinally important constituents such as 5-ethylhydantoin, cis-vaccenic acid, and phenol, 2, 4-bis (1, 1- dimethylethyl). The extract possessed significant anti-epileptic, anti-anxiety, muscle relaxant, and anti-oxidant activity but not anti-depressant activity. The effect of test dose 200 mg/kg, BW was comparable to that of standard drug. Based on the result it can be concluded that the crude extract of D. roxburghii leaves contains constituents responsible for its neuroprotective potential.','Drypetes roxburghii, GCMS analysis, anti-epileptic, anti-anxiety, anti-depressant, muscle relaxant, and anti-oxidant activity','The hydroalcoholic crude extract of Drypetes roxburghii leaves revealed the presence of 22 compounds. When the extract was evaluated for its Neuroprotective activity, it showed significant anti-epileptic, anti-anxiety, muscle relaxant, and anti-oxidant activity. Among the identified compounds 5-Ethyl hydantoin, pentadecanoic acid, Cis-vaccenic acid, 9-octadecenoic acid, and 2,4-bis (1,1, dimethyl ethyl) are thought to be responsible for the above mentioned activities.','-','Mohd Afzal, Mohammad Asif and Abdul Hafeez (2023). GCMS Analysis of Phytoconstituents in Leaf Extract of Drypetes roxburghii and its Neuroprotective Potential. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 15(6): 819-831.'),(8329,'163','Formulation and Evaluation of Moxifloxacin Hydrochloride and Dexamethasone Sodium Phosphate In-situ Ocular Gel','Santanu Ghosh and Kamal Singh Rathore','Formulation and Evaluation of Moxifloxacin Hydrochloride and Dexamethasone Sodium Phosphate In-situ Ocular Gel-Santanu Ghosh-107.pdf','',1,'The objective of our research was to create an ocular gel comprising Moxifloxacin Hydrochloride and Dexamethasone Sodium Phosphate in order to enhance its bioavailability when applied to the surface of the eye. An in-situ ocular gel was created using a temperature-sensitive gelling agent called Kolliphor 407, along with a viscosity building polymer known as HPMC K100. The selection of polymer quantities was based on the optimal amount needed for the prolonged release of the medication from the preparation. This was determined by consulting relevant literature and conducting a comprehensive investigation with varying amounts. The temperature-triggered in-situ ocular gel was prepared using Kolliphor 407 and HPMC K100 polymer. The evaluation of all formulations included assessments of their appearance, pH levels, viscosity at various pH levels, gelling capacity, percentage of drug content, and release research. 32 factorial designs were used to successfully prepare and optimize nine formulations. The optimization process was performed using DoE software, namely Version 13.0.10.064. Moxifloxacin Hydrochloride and Dexamethasone Sodium Phosphate were effectively synthesized in a temperature-triggered in-situ gelling system employing Kolliphor 407 in combination with HPMC K100. The significance of HPMC K100 and Kolliphor 407 in the in-situ gel behavior is witnessed based on primary influence of the concentration of HPMC K100 and Kolliphor 407. The in-vitro findings suggest that the in-situ gel system can effectively replace traditional ocular drops due to its capacity to provide a continuous delivery of medication.','Kolliphor 407, HPMC, temperature trigged in-situ ocular gel and bioavailability.','The combination of Moxifloxacin Hydrochloride and Dexamethasone Sodium Phosphate was effectively incorporated into a temperature-responsive in-situ gelling system. This system utilized Kolliphor 407 in conjunction with HPMC K100. The significance of HPMC K100 and Kolliphor 407 in influencing in-situ gel behavior was observed based on concentration of HPMC K100 and Kolliphor 407. The in-vitro findings suggest that the in-situ gel system can serve as a practical substitute for traditional ocular drops due to its capacity to maintain a continuous flow of medication.','-','Santanu Ghosh and Kamal Singh Rathore (2023). Formulation and Evaluation of Moxifloxacin Hydrochloride and Dexamethasone Sodium Phosphate In-situ Ocular Gel. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 15(5a): 695-707.'),(8330,'171','An Economic Analysis of MAUS-162 Soybean Cultivation in Parbhani and Latur District of Maharashtra, India','Dhananjay S. Ghule, Sachin S More and Tukaram B. Munde','An-Economic-Analysis-of-MAUS-162-Soybean-Cultivation-in-Parbhani-and-Latur-District-of-Maharashtra,-India-Dhananjay-S-Ghule-15.pdf','',1,'Soybean (Glycine max (L.) Merrill) or soyabean is a legume crop belonging to the family Leguminosae or Fabaceae and sub-family Papilionaceae. The area under soybean crop in Maharashtra state in 2022 was 49.09 lakh hectare with production of 65.85 lakh MT and productivity of 1341 kilo grams per hectare. The study was conducted in Maharashtra state of India in the year 2022-23. Two district, six villages were randomly selected. Thus, from six villages, 60 adopted and 60 non-adopted MAUS-162 soybean growers was selected. The overall objective of present study was observed estimate the economic impact of MAUS-162 variety on farmer’s field. For this purpose, analytical tools viz., tabular analysis, partial budgeting technique and profit regression model was employed. Result revealed that, the soybean MAUS-162 variety adopter benefitted in term of getting high quality of source seeds. Average per hectare gross return from soybean was Rs. 87420.98 which was higher than non-adopter Rs. 82084.54. The cost benefit ratio was highest for adopters i.e., 1.63 per cent and 1.51 per cent for non-adopter. ','Economic impact, cost of cultivation, cost of production, profitability, improved soybean variety','Result concluded that, the soybean MAUS-162 variety adopter benefitted in term of getting high quality of source seeds. Yield showed significant relationships with adoption of improved MAUS-162 variety production. The adopter to secure highest net profit of Rs. 33820.88, by the non-adopter is net profit of Rs. 27665.61. Hence, the cost benefit ratio was highest for adopters i.e., 1.63 per cent and 1.51 per cent for non-adopter. Similar result observed by Peshin et al. (2018); Danso-Abbeam (2022).','-','-'),(8331,'176','Host Preference of Tobacco Beetle, Lasioderma serricorne (Fab). on Different Stored Spices','Raja M.Y.S., Mishra P.R., Mohanty S., Padhi J. and Sathis G.','Host-Preference-of-Tobacco-Beetle-Lasioderma-serricorne-(Fab).-on-Different-Stored-Spices-Raja-MYS-12.pdf','',1,'Spices meet the requirement of carbohydrate, fat, protein, and micronutrient in the diet. Spices are low volume and high value commodities in the multi-billion-dollar trade and transactions among the agriculture commodities. Insects are the major causal agents for postharvest losses of stored spices and their products in storehouses. The tobacco beetle, Lasioderma serricorne Fab., is a major pest of stored spices, and its host preference of tobacco beetle to different spices viz., fennel, coriander, ajwain, cumin, turmeric rhizome, red chilli powder, mustard and black pepper was investigated in the storage laboratory of the Department of Entomology at the Odisha University of Agriculture and Technology. Results showed that coriander was the most preferred host for oviposition, and the shortest developmental period and highest adult longevity were also observed on coriander. The longest life cycle was observed on black pepper. Fennel and coriander had the highest weight loss due to infestation, while black pepper had the lowest. Coriander and fennel were categorized as highly susceptible, while mustard and black pepper were categorized as highly resistant.','Tobacco beetle, Lasioderma serricorne, host preference, spices, biology','From the present investigation, it may be concluded that among the spices tested in this study, coriander and fennel were reported to be the most preferred hosts for the tobacco beetle, L. serricorne as the beetle completed the life cycle earlier with a shorter developmental period and a higher feeding and fecundity rate, rendering maximum weight loss, indicating a higher growth index and index of susceptibility.','-','Raja M.Y.S., Mishra P.R., Mohanty S., Padhi J. and Sathis G. (2024). Host Preference of Tobacco Beetle, Lasioderma serricorne (Fab). on Different Stored Spices. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 16(2): 60-64.'),(8332,'176','Effect of Different Establishment Methods and Soil Moisture Conservation Practices on Growth Attributes of Spring Maize','Devendra Singh Ginwal, Subhash Chandra, Amit Bhatnagar, Sumit Chaturvedi, Gurvinder Singh and Veer Singh ','Effect-of-Different-Establishment-Methods-and-Soil-Moisture-Conservation-Practices-on-Growth-Attributes-of-Spring-Maize-Devendra-Singh-Ginwal-13.pdf','',1,'Maize cultivation during the spring season is a lucrative proposition for the farmers However, high moisture demand of spring maize exerts considerable pressure on more no. of irrigation Thus, a two year field experiment was conducted during spring season of year 2019-21 and 2020-21 at GBPUAT, Pantnagar, Uttarakhand, to study the influence of establishment methods (flat bed and furrow sowing) and different soil moisture conservation practices (Rice straw mulching, plastic mulching, earthing and mulching+ earthing) on growth attributes of spring maize. Experimental results revealed that plant height, stem girth and number of green leaves/plant of spring maize were recorded highest in furrow sowing, which were significantly higher than flat bed sowing method during 60 DAS and at maturity stage of crop. The mean increase in plant height between growth periods of 45 to 60 DAS was 48.7 %, 45.6% and 60 DAS to till maturity 29.2%, 28.8% in 2019-20 and 2020-21 respectively, in furrow sowing. During growth period of 45 to 60 DAS the mean increase in stem girth was 13.78%, 15.5% and between 60 DAS to maturity it showed a declination of 7.2%, 9.71% in both the year, respectively. The mean increase in no. of leaves per plant during 60 DAS to at harvest was 5.3%, 7.75% in furrow sowing and 5.6%, 7.2% in flat sowing in 2019-20 and 2020-21. Amongst the different moisture conservation practices, plant height, stem girth and number of green leaves per plant was significantly at par from each other but statistically significant value was recorded over no mulch treatment. The CGR, RGR and AGR of both the years were at par among different moisture conservation practices under furrow sowing and flat sowing methods at 60 DAS and crop maturity stage. Adoption of moisture conservation practices significantly influence the growth attributes of maize at all growth stages, it might be due to the favorable microclimate created by application of mulch and better availability of moisture during entire crop growth period, better root activity and better nutrients uptake contributes overall plant growth. ','Maize, Flat, Furrow, Plastic Mulch, CGR, RGR, AGR ','Our study demonstrated that the growing of spring maize crops in the tarai region of Uttarakhand, furrow sowing method should be adopted for better crop establishment, as it recorded significantly higher plants growth attributes viz., plant height, stem girth, no. of green leaves per plant, yield, productivity and quality of spring maize. Application of plastic mulch was found to be a viable option, where labour scarcity for earthing and non availability of straw mulch, to conserve available soil moisture and achieve higher productivity of spring maize.','-','Devendra Singh Ginwal, Subhash Chandra, Amit Bhatnagar, Sumit Chaturvedi, Gurvinder Singh and Veer Singh (2024). Effect of Different Establishment Methods and Soil Moisture Conservation Practices on Growth Attributes of Spring Maize. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 16(2): 65-70.'),(8333,'159','Economic Value of Clarias batrachus and Variation in Weight at Different Time Interval with Respect to Year 2019 to 2021','Shweta Agniwanshi, Shraddha Mishra and Atul Trivedi','Economic Value of Clarias batrachus and Variation in Weight at Different Time Interval with Respect to Year 2019 to 2021-SHWETA AGNIWANSHI-127.pdf','',1,' The present study was performed to analyze the economic importance and determine the effect of constant light (LL) and constant dark (DD) on weight of the animals in different time interval of the year 2019, 2020 and 2021 in Indian fish Clarias batrachus. The fingerlings of C. batrachus were collected and harvested in a pond. The fishes were fed with rich protein content feeds. Weight of sampled fish was measured. The fishes were acclimatized to work place before conducting the experiment. They were divided into three groups each contacting 48 fishes and maintained under photoperiods of natural day-night (control), LL and DD for 60 days. The experiment was performed for during different phases of C. batrachus reproductive cycle i.e., resting, pre-monsoon, monsoon, and post monsoon for three consecutive years. Four fishes from each group were examined during the experiment at every 15 days to take the body weight of animals. Results were analyzed using ANOVA for four different factors including “Year” (1, 2 and 3), “Treatment” (normal day-night, LL, and DD) “Phase” (resting, pre-monsoon, monsoon, and post monsoon), and “Time interval” (15, 30, 45 and 60 days) on body weight of C. batrachus. Increased body weight was seen DD group as compared to control group. LL has also shown increased body weight but lesser that DD group. It can be concluded from the study that under DD condition body weight of fishes increases and their economic value can be increased by proper farming and maintenance. ','Catfish, Feed, Fish farming, Market size, Nutrition, Reproductive cycle','C. batrachus is a highly demanded and economically important fish species. The nutritious value of catfish is very useful and rich source of protein and nutrients. Increase weight of catfish was observed in DD during pre-monsoon and monsoon phases. Thus, proper farming and maintenance of C. batrachus may grow the market and enhance their economic value. ','-','Shweta Agniwanshi, Shraddha Mishra and Atul Trivedi (2023). Economic Value of Clarias batrachus and Variation in Weight at Different Time Interval with Respect to Year 2019 to 2021. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 15(6): 832-835.'),(8334,'148','Evaluation of Rice Blast Incidence and Identification of Resistant sources in Aromatic Rice Landraces','U. Keerthana, A.K. Senapati, Manas K. Bag, S.R. Prabhukarthikeyan, Niranjan Das and Mihira K. Mishra','Evaluation-of-Rice-Blast-Incidence-and-Identification-of-Resistant-sources-in-Aromatic-Rice-Landraces-U-Keerthana-124.pdf','',1,'The Rice blast disease, primarily caused by the fungal pathogen Magnaporthe oryzae, represents a significant biotic stress factor affecting rice production in India. To identify sources of resistance to leaf blast disease within aromatic rice landraces, evaluations were conducted under both natural and induced epiphytotic conditions during the wet seasons of 2021 and 2022. A comprehensive screening encompassed 108 aromatic rice landraces, including susceptible controls (CO 39 and HR 12), cultivated within a standardized blast nursery. Disease severity pertaining to rice leaf blast was assessed utilizing a 0-9 scale. Of the rice genotypes screened, 17 were classified as resistant, 17 landraces demonstrated moderate resistance, and 74 genotypes proved susceptible to rice leaf blast disease. The identification of these resistant accessions, possessing requisite agronomic traits, suggests their potential utilization as donor parents within leaf blast resistance breeding programs aimed at developing resistant aromatic rice varieties.','Rice blast, aromatic landraces, Percent disease index, screening, resistance','The threat posed by rice blast disease to aromatic rice landraces is multifaceted, impacting their genetic diversity, cultural significance, and economic value. The challenge of managing this disease in aromatic landraces is compounded by their susceptibility and the imperative to preserve desirable traits. Furthermore, rice blast undermines conservation efforts aimed at safeguarding the genetic diversity of these valuable rice varieties. Identifying and incorporating blast-resistant donors into aromatic rice genotypes is essential to mitigate these risks. Our study contributes to this effort by identifying resistant donors through screening analysis. These identified genotypes can be used as potential donors for developing the resistant lines. ','-','U. Keerthana, A.K. Senapati, Manas K. Bag, S.R. Prabhukarthikeyan, Niranjan Das and Mihira K. Mishra (2023). Evaluation of Rice Blast Incidence and Identification of Resistant sources in Aromatic Rice Landraces. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 15(1): 755-760.'),(8335,'176','Finding the Relationship between Independent variables and Annual Income Changes and the Overall Impact on Agricultural Ponds in Jaipur District of Rajasthan','Meenakshi Jakhar, R.N. Sharma, B.S. Badhala, Rituraj Sheshma and Jitendra Kuri ','Finding-the-Relationship-between-Independent-variables-and-Annual-Income-Changes-and-the-Overall-Impact-on-Agricultural-Ponds-in-Jaipur-District-of-Rajasthan-Meenakshi-Jakhar-14.pdf','',1,'India has a long history in tank technology. There are reservoirs to collect water in all parts of Rajasthan. In order to collect excess rainfall from agricultural areas, some dams must be built against weather conditions. The machine has the ability to increase the amount of water, increase efficiency and productivity, thereby increasing the yield from the crop. Agricultural ponds, if built in large numbers, also play an important role in flood control and welfare. They also play an important role in rain-fed agriculture. From an economic perspective, reservoirs should be created to provide the maximum amount of water. This usually occurs in places where there are narrow and steep places. Agricultural ponds help coordinate planning for better land and water use; Consider groundwater and water resources to develop or identify new ways to interact with water, plants, animals, and human land use in the reservoir farm area.','Farm pond, Utilization, Technology, Supplemental, Mechanism','India has a long history in tank technology. There are reservoirs to collect water in all parts of Rajasthan. A number of shelter type ponds are required to collect excess rainfall from the land.\r\nEconomic change is measured as job creation and changes in annual personal income; beneficiaries, farm pool creates average job after opening the field.\r\nThe study shows that the average crop yield between Kharif and Rabi has generally increased. While the average productivity of kharif plants increased by 16.20 percent, 7.17 percent, 16.64 percent and 17.52 percent, respectively, compared to the previous year, the average productivity of Bajra, lima gram, peanut and bush increased, while the time average productivity of kharif plants did not change. Seen: Wheat. The percentage change in barley, mustard, mung beans and peas was 13.56%, 7.54%, 24.36%, 16.71% and 13.68%, respectively. As for vegetables, the averages of pepper, eggplant, okra and tomato changed with percentage changes of 8.25%, 11.39%, 17.23% and 14.98%, respectively.\r\nAfter construction of farm dams, most of the beneficiaries (42.50% of the respondents) earn annual income in the range of Rs. 400,000 to Rs. 600,000, indicating that 31.66% of the beneficiaries earn in the range of Rs. 200,000 to Rs. 14.17% of the respondents have an annual income of over 600,000 rupees and only 11.67% of the respondents have an annual income of over 600,000 rupees. Up to 200,000 rupees of farmers\' annual income was benefited. The annual income change after the construction of farm ponds is 24.84%.\r\n','-','Meenakshi Jakhar, R.N. Sharma, B.S. Badhala, Rituraj Sheshma and Jitendra Kuri (2024). Finding the Relationship Between Independent variables and Annual Income Changes and the Overall Impact on Agricultural Ponds in Jaipur District of Rajasthan. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 16(2): 71-75.'),(8336,'176','Influence of Spacing on Tree Carbon Sequestration in Teak (Tectona grandis) based Agroforestry System','V. Bhaskar, Hanumanthappa D.C. and Bhavya V. ','Influence-of-Spacing-on-Tree-Carbon-Sequestration-in-Teak-(Tectona-grandis)-based-Agroforestry-System-Bhavya-V-15.pdf','',1,'Tree carbon sequestration is the process by which atmospheric carbon dioxide is taken up by trees, grasses, and other plants through photosynthesis and stored as carbon in biomass (trunks, branches, foliage, and roots) and soils. Even though, the earth naturally stores carbon in forest, oceans, and soil, these carbon sinks are unable to excessive and increasing amount of carbon dioxide humans continue to emit. The experiment was carried at University of Agricultural Sciences, GKVK, Bengaluru to know optimum spacing for maximum wood volume production and higher tree carbon sequestered in teak plantation through agroforestry system. In seven years old teak plantation maximum tree height (7.93 m), girth at breast height (GBH) (52.67 cm), wood volume (15.8523 m3 ha-1), total tree biomass (45.94 t ha-1) and tree carbon sequestered (22.97 t ha-1) was recorded with a spacing of 12 m × 3 m followed by 10 m × 3 m and 8 m × 3 m. The objective of the study was to improvise the carbon sequestration along with tree pulp yield.','Teak, wood volume, Total biomass, Carbon sequestration','Carbon sequestration in teak plantation increases with increase in spacing and age of the tree. In seven years old teak plantation maximum tree carbon sequestered was 22.97 t ha-1. Intercrops such as cereals and pulses can be taken till seven years of plantation and then shade loving crops are preferred for economical yield.','-','V. Bhaskar, Hanumanthappa D.C. and Bhavya V. (2024). Influence of Spacing on Tree Carbon Sequestration in Teak (Tectona grandis) based Agroforestry System. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 16(2): 76-80.'),(8337,'176','Impact of Inoculum type and Mode of Inoculation Favouring Colletotrichum gloeosporioides in causing anthracnose Disease in Mango Fruits','K. Jayaprakash, K. Prabakar, G. Karthikeyan, R. Gnanam and C. Kavitha','Impact-of-Inoculum-type-and-Mode-of-Inoculation-Favouring-Colletotrichum-gloeosporioides-in-causing-anthracnose-Disease-in-Mango-Fruits-K-Jayaprakash-16.pdf','',1,'Mango is a commercially cultivated in both tropical and sub tropical climatic zones. Mango anthracnose is caused by Colletotrichum gloeosporioides. The pathogen invades the fruit and sustains in inflorescence as quiescent infection and cause disease after the fruit reaches the harvesting stage. In leaves and fruit, it initially appears as black sunken spots later coalesce to form large necrotic lesions leading to death of tissues. In order to manage the disease, knowledge about survival, multiplication and spread of the pathogen is essential. Hence in this study, evaluation was done on the different method of inoculation and type of inoculation that involves in successful establishment and spread of disease. As a result of investigation it was found that fruit inoculated with spores alone was able to produce symptoms at early stage and causes rotting of fruits compared to other mode of inoculation and inoculum types. Early stage of infection leads to further production of secondary inoculum which tends to infect nearby healthy susceptible crops and host tissues.','Method of inoculation, Mode of inoculation, spore suspension, inoculum','From the results, it can be concluded that next to natural openings present in plants and fruits, for a successful infection and disease establishment, openings caused by injuries plays major role in favoring entry of pathogen that can occur due to post harvest agricultural practices and exportation injuries. It was also observed that conidial suspension achieved highest percent disease incidence as well as maximum lesion size with in short period of time which also gives a lead to production of more secondary inoculum for the rapid spread of disease when compared to mycelium as a inoculation propagule. The finding not only applicable for disease establishment it totally describes about nature of fungal organisms which can be concluded that even biocontrol agent with high sporulation tendency can spread and survive in substrates in natural environment before the invasion of pathogen. ','-','K. Jayaprakash, K. Prabakar, G. Karthikeyan, R. Gnanam and C. Kavitha (2024). Impact of Inoculum type and Mode of Inoculation Favouring Colletotrichum gloeosporioides in causing anthracnose Disease in Mango Fruits. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 16(2): 81-85.'),(8338,'170','Influence of Foliar Application of Plant Growth Regulators and Nutrients on Physico Chemical and Post Harvest Traits of Acid Lime (Citrus aurantifolia Swingle)','Shrikunwar, Karan Vir Singh, Khusboo Namdev and Rajesh Lekhi','Influence-of-Foliar-Application-of-Plant-Growth-Regulators-and-Nutrients-on-Physico-Chemical-and-Post-Harvest-Traits-of-Acid-Lime-(Citrus-aurantifolia-Swingle)-Shrikunwar-87.pdf','',1,'A field trial was conducted to assess the effectiveness of different combinations plant growth regulators (2,4-D and NAA) and nutrients (Boric acid and Urea) on qualitative and yield parameters of eight year old Acid lime plants during 2019-20 and 2020-21 at Agro techno park of Krishi Vigyan Kendra, College of Agriculture, Rajmata Vijayaraje Scindia Krishi Vishwa Vidyalaya, Gwalior (M.P.). The experiment was laid out in randomized block design with 25 different treatment combinations along with control. The treatments consisted of foliar application of growth regulators viz., NAA, and 2,4-D and nutrients such as boric acid and Urea. Results have indicated that the foliar spray of T19-Urea 2%+2,4-D 15ppm + NAA 20ppm + Boron 0.5% was found superior with respect to quality parameters like fruit volume at harvest (39.54), juice content (51.29) ml and TSS (7.49) Brix) and acidity percentage (8.04) and TSS: Acid ratio (1.11). The plant growth regulators and nutrients are very much essential for growth and development of acid lime. The study denotes that post harvest parameters like physiological weight loss after 5, 10 and 15 days of storage were found to be reduced by application of Urea 2%+2, 4D 15ppm+NAA 20ppm+Boron 0.5% and specific gravity after 5, 10 and 15 days of storage was found to be increased when compared to control.','Acid lime, urea, boric acid, 2,4-D, physico chemical, growth regulators, post harvest','On the basis of results obtained in present investigation it is concluded that foliar application of T19-Urea 2%+2,4-D 15ppm + NAA 20ppm + Boron 0.5% was found to be significantly superior to all the treatments under study and resulted in increase in fruit volume, juice percentage, TSS Brix, and TSS: Acid ratio and specific gravity whereas reduced the acidity percentage, physiological weight loss as compared to control. Hence this treatment combination seems to be useful or improving the quality and post harvest parameters of acid lime for consumption of its by products like squash, marmalades, pickles and help farmers to get a higher price for their produce thereby increasing their income.','-','Shrikunwar, Karan Vir Singh, Khusboo Namdev and Rajesh Lekhi (2023). Influence of Foliar Application of Plant Growth Regulators and Nutrients on Physico Chemical and Post Harvest Traits of Acid Lime (Citrus aurantifolia Swingle). Biological Forum – An International Journal, 15(12): 480-484.'),(8339,'173','Sacred Flames of Healing: Yagya Therapy in the Holistic Treatment of Cancer, Diabetes and Heart Diseases','Acharya Balkrishna, Swami Yagyadev, Deepika Arya, Ajay Kumar Gautam and Vedpriya Arya ','Sacred-Flames-of-Healing-Yagya-Therapy-in-the-Holistic-Treatment-of-Cancer-Diabetes-and-Heart-Diseases-Acharya-Balkrishna-1.pdf','',1,'Owing to unhealthy lifestyles and rising pollution, the number of cancer, diabetes, and heart disease sufferers is increasing every day. Uncomfortable and time-consuming treatment causes both physical and psychological stress. A comprehensive treatment approach should also take care of psychological health. A mentally positive and peaceful patient recovers fast. There is a need to integrate some rejuvenating therapies with contemporary treatment methods. In this context, ‘yagya’ is a marvelous option to consider. When Yagya is performed with ‘disease-specific’ medicinal herbs, it turns into a divine therapy for struggling patients. This study aims to investigate the effectiveness of Yagya therapy as \'supportive care’ for cancer, diabetes, and heart patients during their treatment. This study includes the treatment of nine patients in the age group of 28 to 78 years. The patients were treated for a minimum of three days to two years. Three types of disease-specific, Yagya samagris were used for the treatment. The samagris were a mixture of herbs rich in specific compounds that healed the patients. Cancer patients were treated with samagri “Divya Karkateshti”. Similarly, diabetics and heart patients were treated with “Divya madhuishti” and “Divya hridayeshti” respectively. The patients felt the benefits of Yagya therapy beyond the cure of their ailment. Some of them expressed willingness to attend Yagya beyond their treatment duration. This study shows that Yagya is a form of therapy that needs to be integrated with contemporary treatment methods to speed up the pace of recovery. However, Yagya therapy as a sole choice of treatment needs to be further investigated. More case studies are needed on Yagya therapy based on the treatment of several other ailments.','Yagya, cancer, diabetes, heart, therapy, herbs','This study shows that Yagya is a form of therapy that needs to be integrated with contemporary treatment methods to speed up the pace of recovery. However, Yagya therapy as a sole choice of treatment needs to be further investigated. More case studies are needed on Yagya therapy based on the treatment of several other ailments.','-','Acharya Balkrishna, Swami Yagyadev, Deepika Arya, Ajay Kumar Gautam and Vedpriya Arya (2024). Sacred Flames of Healing: Yagya Therapy in the Holistic Treatment of Cancer, Diabetes and Heart Diseases. International Journal on Emerging Technologies, 15(1), 01–08.'),(8340,'176','Growth, antioxidant activities and haemato-biochemical responses of Genetically Improved Farmed Tilapia (GIFT), Oreochromis niloticus fingerlings reared in Recirculating Aquaculture System (RAS) at different stocking densities fed on artificial feed','Anusha Patel, Sikendra Kumar, Tincy Varghese, Ashutosh D. Deo, Vijaykumar M. and A.K. Verma','Growth-antioxidant-activities-and-haemato-biochemical-responses-of-Genetically-Improved-Farmed-Tilapia-(GIFT)-Oreochromis-niloticus-fingerlings-reared-in-Recirculating-Aquaculture-System-Sikendra-Kumar-17.pdf','',1,'A 6- weeks feeding trial was conducted by stocking Genetically Improved Farmed Tilapia (GIFT), Oreochromis niloticus fingerlings at different stocking densities in a recirculating aquaculture system (RAS) to estimate the growth, antioxidant activities and haemato-biochemical responses during the culture period. The water flow rate of 10litres per minute was maintained throughout the experiment. The GIFT tilapia fingerlings with an average weight of 15.34g ±0.59 were stocked at different stocking densities as T1 (3833g/m3, 250 fishes/m3), T2 (5500g/m3, 366 fishes/m3) and T3 (7166g/m3, 466 fishes/ m3). Significantly (P<0.05) higher weight gain, weight gain %, specific growth rate and protein efficiency ratio were found in the T1 group compared to T2 and T3. The T3 manifested the lowest above growth parameters. The T1 group reported a significantly (P<0.05) lower release of phosphorus 4.29mg/l compared to the T2 and T3 groups. The highest phosphorus level of 7.49 mg/l was reported in the T3 stocked with 7166g/ m3, which was comparable with the T2. The release of total ammonia nitrogen did not vary (P>0.05) among the treatments. The T1 group showed a lower dietary total ammonia nitrogen release than the T2 and T3. The T3 group had significantly (P<0.05) elevated nitrite and nitrate levels. The serum total protein, albumin and globulin were significantly (P<0.05) higher in T1, which was comparable to T2. The superoxide dismutase and catalase activities were also analysed, and these parameters vary significantly (P<0.05) among the treatments. The T1 group reported the highest survival percentage in comparison to other treatments. It can be concluded that in the present experiment at a stocking density of 3833g/m3 (250 fishes/m3) the optimal growth performance of GIFT tilapia was found in the RAS with the lower release of dietary phosphorus, total ammonia nitrogen and nitrite. ','Recirculating aquaculture system, GIFT tilapia, Growth, Stocking densities','In the present experiment, the stocking density 3833g/ m3 (250 fishes /m3) showed better growth performance of GIFT tilapia fingerlings, elevated antioxidant and immune responses with lower release of phosphorus, total ammonia, nitrite and nitrate in the RAS. ','-','Anusha Patel, Sikendra Kumar, Tincy Varghese, Ashutosh D. Deo, Vijaykumar M. and A.K. Verma (2024). Growth, antioxidant activities and haemato-biochemical responses of Genetically Improved Farmed Tilapia (GIFT), Oreochromis niloticus fingerlings reared in Recirculating Aquaculture System (RAS) at different stocking densities fed on artificial feed. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 16(2): 86-93.'),(8341,'163','The Impact of Telerehabilitation on Patients with Knee Osteoarthritis: A Comparative Study','Arvind Tak and Girish Baldha','The Impact of Telerehabilitation on Patients with Knee Osteoarthritis A Comparative Study-Arvind Tak-128.pdf','',4,'This study seeks to assess and compare the impacts of telerehabilitation and home-based exercise programs on individuals diagnosed with moderate/mild knee osteoarthritis (KOA). Patients meeting the criteria for moderate/mild KOA were included in the study and randomly assigned to two groups. The telerehabilitation group engaged in guided exercises through video conferences with a physiotherapist, whereas the control group received a brochure illustrating the exercises. Participants underwent assessments using the 30-s chair stand test (30 CST), Knee Injury and Osteoarthritis Outcome Score (KOOS), Numeric Rating Scale (NRS), International Physical Activity Questionnaire Short Form (IPAQ-SF), and Hospital Anxiety and Depression Scale (HADS) at two points in time—before and after an 8-week treatment period. Additionally, the quantity of painkillers consumed by patients within the last 15 days was documented both before and after the treatment.','Telerehabilitation, Knee, Osteoarthritis, Depression, Injury, Anxiety','This study suggests that telerehabilitation surpasses self-management in effectiveness. Utilizing an innovative and tailored web-based approach for knee osteoarthritis (KOA) extends the reach to a significant number of patients with internet access, ensuring the delivery of effective treatment. Subsequent research endeavors should concentrate on refining and broadening the application of telerehabilitation for the management of KOA.','-','Arvind Tak and Girish Baldha (2023). The Impact of Telerehabilitation on Patients with Knee Osteoarthritis: A Comparative Study. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 15(5a): 708-711.'),(8342,'159','The Impact of Telerehabilitation on Patients with Knee Osteoarthritis: A Comparative Study','Arvind Tak and Girish Baldha','The Impact of Telerehabilitation on Patients with Knee Osteoarthritis A Comparative Study-Arvind Tak-128.pdf','',1,'This study seeks to assess and compare the impacts of telerehabilitation and home-based exercise programs on individuals diagnosed with moderate/mild knee osteoarthritis (KOA). Patients meeting the criteria for moderate/mild KOA were included in the study and randomly assigned to two groups. The telerehabilitation group engaged in guided exercises through video conferences with a physiotherapist, whereas the control group received a brochure illustrating the exercises. Participants underwent assessments using the 30-s chair stand test (30 CST), Knee Injury and Osteoarthritis Outcome Score (KOOS), Numeric Rating Scale (NRS), International Physical Activity Questionnaire Short Form (IPAQ-SF), and Hospital Anxiety and Depression Scale (HADS) at two points in time—before and after an 8-week treatment period. Additionally, the quantity of painkillers consumed by patients within the last 15 days was documented both before and after the treatment.','Telerehabilitation, Knee, Osteoarthritis, Depression, Injury, Anxiety','This study suggests that telerehabilitation surpasses self-management in effectiveness. Utilizing an innovative and tailored web-based approach for knee osteoarthritis (KOA) extends the reach to a significant number of patients with internet access, ensuring the delivery of effective treatment. Subsequent research endeavors should concentrate on refining and broadening the application of telerehabilitation for the management of KOA.','-','Arvind Tak and Girish Baldha (2023). The Impact of Telerehabilitation on Patients with Knee Osteoarthritis: A Comparative Study. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 15(6): 836-839.'),(8343,'159','Artificial Intelligence’s Potential in Healthcare','Soumen Jana and Soumyajit Das','Artificial-Intelligences-Potential-in-Healthcare-Soumen-Jana-129.pdf','',1,'Due to increased complexity and volume of data in healthcare, artificial intelligence (AI) will be used more frequently. Several forms of AI are already being used by payers and providers of care, as well as life sciences businesses. The primary application categories include diagnosis and treatment recommendations, patient involvement and adherence, and administrative duties. Although there are numerous cases when AI can execute healthcare duties as well as or better than humans, implementation issues will prohibit widespread automation of healthcare professional positions for some time. Ethical considerations in the use of AI to healthcare are also highlighted.','Clinical decision support, artificial intelligence, electronic health record systems','From the above conversation, it may be closed by expressing, and computerized reasoning will be utilised regularly in medical services, given the expanded intricacy and volume of information. Life sciences organizations, payers, and care suppliers use various man-made intelligence types. Symptomatic and treatment proposals, patient support and adherence, and regulatory obligations are the essential application classifications. Execution issues will forestall inescapable robotization of medical services proficient situations for quite a while, regardless of various examples where simulated intelligence can perform medical care undertakings as well as or better than people. Profound gaining can profit from finding clinically significant examples of cardiovascular information that go out into the local area of living life forms. Both deep learning and radionics have been utilised for Oncology-related picture examination. They figure out how to give more precise pictures than the past age of picture examination advances. These innovations can change various parts of patient consideration and managerial activities inside payer, drug, and supplier associations. Even with different reasons, simulated intelligence will only supplant people in that frame of mind of the clinical cycle for a considerable time.','-','Soumen Jana and Soumyajit Das (2023). Artificial Intelligence’s Potential in Healthcare. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 15(6): 840-845.'),(8344,'176','Kenguri Sheep Farmers Socio-economic Status under Intensive Rearing System in Yadgir, Karnataka','Kanakaraja M.G., Sagar M., Chitra Juniwal, Syeda Nelofer Afnan, E.N. Reddy and Kartik ','Kenguri-Sheep-Farmers-Socio-economic-Status-under-Intensive-Rearing-System-in-Yadgir,-Karnataka-Kanakaraja-MG-18.pdf','',1,'The prominent socio-economic issues of farmers rearing Kenguri sheep were analyzed during the survey in Yadgir district of Karnataka state. Total of 20 intensive sheep farmers were assessed in the entire research by assessor. The major sheep farmers are middle aged (45.00%) under age group pattern. With respect to education and its level, (80.00%) of farmers were literals and (43.75%) of them had primary education. Sheep farming (45.00%) was the main occupation of farmers and agriculture and allied activities (55.00%) were the major sub-occupation types. Nuclear type of family (65.00%) having small family size (55.00%) was dominant among the sheep farmers. Sheep farmers had medium overall farming experience (55.00%) and sheep rearing experience (40.00%) under farming experience domain. Most of the sheep farmers had large land holdings (65.00%) and their social participation was duly noticed as one organizational activity (65.00%). This type of experiment is useful for the rural farmers to know about their social and economic perspectives of farming life in further days to shape up their status.','Kenguri sheep farmers, Socio-economic issues, intensive sheep farming, occupation, farming experience, land holding','By this work we may conclude that, there is an increasing need to encourage more and more educated young people to get involved in sheep farming because of the growing demand for mutton, which makes it necessary to improvise in sheep rearing by implementing cutting-edge technology. It was clear that implementing scientific sheep management techniques and heeding veterinarians\' recommendations about medical care would reduce the percentage of sheep mortality and enhance the financial well-being of shepherds.','-','Kanakaraja M.G., Sagar M., Chitra Juniwal, Syeda Nelofer Afnan, E.N. Reddy and Kartik (2024). Kenguri Sheep Farmers Socio-economic Status under Intensive Rearing System in Yadgir, Karnataka. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 16(2): 94-97.'),(8345,'176','Rearing Performance of Muga Silkworm as Influenced by Abiotic Factors during Commercial Crops at Garo Hills Region','Vikram Kumar, M. Majumdar, A. Singh, K. Indirakumar, Narendra Kumar and K. Neog ','Rearing-Performance-of-Muga-Silkworm-as-Influenced-by-Abiotic-Factors-during-Commercial-Crops-at-Garo-Hills-Region-Vikram-Kumar-19.pdf','',1,'Muga silkworm (Antheraea assamensis Helfer) is multivoltine, i.e. 5-6 times rearing of the silkworm can be done in a year. Muga silkworms are reared during the autumn and spring seasons which are termed as ‘Kotia’ and ‘Jethua’ crops, respectively. The cocoons produced during these two seasons are used for producing yarn commercially and hence, these two crops are called commercial crops. ‘Kotia’ commercial crop rearing is preceded by one crop rearing during June-July which is called ‘Aherua’ pre-seed crop and subsequent rearing during August-September is called ‘Bhodia’ seed crop. Similarly, ‘Jethua’ commercial crop rearing is preceded by ‘Jarua’ (December-January) pre-seed crop rearing followed by ‘Chatua’ seed crop rearing. The pre-seed and seed crops of Muga usually fall in adverse climatic seasons of extreme summer and winter and the productivity sometimes slashes down to 10- 20%. The present study was conducted on the effect of abiotic factors on commercial season among Jethua and Kotia in muga silkworm with respect to its rearing performance in Garo Hills. From the study (based on three-year data) it is revealed that the Kotia season recorded a significantly high Effective Rate of Rearing (pooled t-value is 20.79) as compared with the Jethua commercial crop while hatching percentage, larval period, male weight and female weight was statistically at par with both the commercial crop season. Heavy rainfall during brushing, hailstorms during the early stage, temperature fluctuations and high rainfall are the climatic factors which badly affect muga silkworm in the Jethua crop. Based on meteorological parameters it is advisable that the preponement of Jethua crop rearing may give them a good harvest as compared to the existing crop schedule. Based on the rearing performance it is also suggested that farmers of Garo Hills may increase the quantity of muga silkworm rearing in Kotia crops so they can earn more profit from practising muga culture. ','Muga, Jethua, Kotia and Rearing performance','India is a sub-tropical country and environmental conditions are the limiting factors of muga silkworm rearing. Majority of muga rearers encounters the various environmental problems and lose their crops or produce inferior quality of cocoon and silk. Based on the experiments, Jethua crop recorded lower effective rate of rearing and statically at par larval weight, larval duration and hatching percentage with Kotia crop, due to heavy rain and hailstorms at their early stage worms. High incidence of bacterial and viral diseases was also observed in Jethua crops late age rearing due to high temperature fluctuations. By all the above modification and suggestion, muga silkworm rearing may be conduct and quality of cocoons and silk can be improved where environmental variation is less.','-','Vikram Kumar, M. Majumdar, A. Singh, K. Indirakumar, Narendra Kumar and K. Neog (2024). Rearing Performance of Muga Silkworm as Influenced by Abiotic Factors during Commercial Crops at Garo Hills Region. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 16(2): 98-101.'),(8346,'173','Transient Laminar Film Condensation on an Isothermal Vertical Surface in an Anisotropic Permeability Porous Medium using the Complementary Error Function for the Temperature Profile','S.A.O. Sanya, G. Chidikofan, M.F.O. Sanya, S. Osseni and C. Akowanou','Transient-Laminar-Film-Condensation-on-an-Isothermal-Vertical-Surface-in-an-Anisotropic-Permeability-Porous-Medium-using-the-Complementary-Error-Function-for-the-Temperature-Profil-Arthur-stanis-SANYA-2.pdf','',1,'This paper concerns the transient liquid film condensation phenomenon on an isothermal vertical surface in contact with an anisotropic porous medium using the complementary error function for the temperature profile. The boundary layer equations are formulated and the time variable is involved only in the energy equation. The governing equations of the problem have been solved analytically by the similarity method using the Kärman-Pholhausen integral method. Thus, the expressions of the dimensionless thickness of the liquid film, the Nusselt number and the characteristic limit time of the transition from transient to steady state have been developed. The results found allows to extend the isotropic porous medium to take into account the anisotropic properties of the porous medium, using the flow permeability tensor and the generalised Darcy\'s law to describe the fluid flow in the porous medium. A good remark has been done for the temperature profile which is assumed as the complementary error function and gives the same results as the previous studies using a linear function.','Transient film condensation, complementary error function, anisotropic porous medium, Darcy flow model','This study copes with liquid film condensation along a vertical surface embedded in anisotropic porous medium whose principal axes are non-coincident with the gravity vector. With the formulation of the problem on the basis of the generalized Darcy’s law, boundary-layer equations are solved analytically by the method of characteristics, as time is taken into account in equation of energy. By the end, the results obtained for the temperature profile assuming as a complementary error function have the same trends with those for the temperature profile assuming as linear function (Sanya et al., 2021): \r\n1. The transient convective flow along a vertical plate has a singularity characterised by the transition that the convective flow undergoes from a regime where instabilities movements in the porous medium prevail to a regime characterised by stationary movements which take place from a limit dimensionless time τ_C counted from the initial moment of heating of the surface by the initiation of the condensation phenomena. This time τ_C corresponds to the time from which the characteristic quantities of heat and mass transfer suddenly change from the transient one-dimensional conduction regime to a two-dimensional natural convection regime near to the vertical surface where a steady-state regime now prevails. The limiting dimensionless time τ_C to reach the steady state increases with increasing the anisotropy ratio K^* and the orientation angle φ of the main axes of the porous medium. \r\n2. The dimensionless thickness of the liquid boundary layer shows the same pattern as that obtained for the case of isotropic porous medium in the transient regime by previous work. \r\n3. The heat transfer rate depends on the time variable in the transient regime and the anisotropy permeability parameters in the steady state.\r\n','-','S.A.O. Sanya, G. Chidikofan, M.F.O. Sanya, S. Osseni and C. Akowanou (2024). Transient Laminar Film Condensation on an Isothermal Vertical Surface in an Anisotropic Permeability Porous Medium using the Complementary Error Function for the Temperature Profile. International Journal on Emerging Technologies, 15(1): 09–15.'),(8347,'176','Evaluation of Early Maturing Clones for Yield and Juice Quality in Sugarcane (Saccharum officinarum L.)','D. Adilakshmi, P.V. Padmavathi, M. Charumathi, P. Kishore Varma, K.V. Ramana Murthy and T. Chitkala Devi ','Evaluation-of-Early-Maturing-Clones-for-Yield-and-Juice-Quality-in-Sugarcane-(Saccharum-officinarum-L.)-D-Adilakshmi-20.pdf','',1,'A field experiment was conducted to evaluate the performance of three elite sugarcane clones (CoA 17321, CoA 17323 and CoC17336) and three standards (CoA 92081, CoC 01061 and CoOr 03151) at Regional Agricultural Research Station under AICRP at Regional Agricultural Research Station, Anakapalle in RBD with four replications during 2020-21 and 2021-22. The data on yield components, yield and quality parameters viz., Number of millable canes (‘000/ha), Cane Yield (t/ha), CCS yield (t/ha), Brix (%), Sucrose (%), CCS (%), Purity (%), Pol % cane, Extraction percent, Fibre percent and yield components viz single cane weight (kg), Cane length (cm) and cane girth (cm) was collected. The mean data over two plant (Plant I and II) and ratoon was analysed. The results revealed that the clone CoA 17321 recorded highest mean number of millable canes (‘000/ha) of 109.40, mean cane yield (t/ha) of 120.47 and CCS yield (t/ha) of 15.16, significantly out yielded the best standard CoC 01061, recorded mean number of millable canes, cane yield and CCS yield (114.86, 99.80 and 11.94) respectively. Regarding quality parameters the same entry, CoA 17321 has recorded highest brix % (19.31), sucrose % (17.90), CCS % (12.56) and purity% (92.68) and is significantly superior to the standards CoC 01061 (19.29, 17.18, 11.92 and 89.03 respectively). Regarding Pol % cane the clone CoA 17321 has recorded highest mean pol % cane (13.55), Extraction % (50.79) and fibre percent (14.28). The clone recorded highest singe cane weight of 1.12 kg, cane length of 236.23cm and cane girth of 2.41cm.\r\nThe clone was found to be resistant to all races of Red rot under nodal method which indicates its field level tolerance. Based on the results obtained the clone CoA 17321 can be recommended for commercial cultivation in Andhra Pradesh for increased productivity.\r\n','Brix, NMC, Cane Yield, Purity per cent, Red rot and Sucrose per cent','The promising clone CoA 17321 recorded highest NMC, Cane Yield, single cane weight, CCS yield sucrose per cent and purity per cent over the best standards and can be recommended for commercial cultivation in Andhra Pradesh for increased productivity.','-','D. Adilakshmi, P.V. Padmavathi, M. Charumathi, P. Kishore Varma, K.V. Ramana Murthy and T. Chitkala Devi (2024). Evaluation of Early Maturing Clones for Yield and Juice Quality in Sugarcane (Saccharum officinarum L.). Biological Forum – An International Journal, 16(2): 102-105.'),(8348,'176','Yield and Economics of Black Rice as influenced by Integrated Nutrient Management Practices','Sai Chandrika S., Prathibha Sree S., Jaffar Basha S. and Madhu Vani P. ','Yield-and-Economics-of-Black-Rice-as-influenced-by-Integrated-Nutrient-Management-Practices-Sai-Chandrika-21.pdf','',1,'A field experiment was carried out during kharif, 2022 at Agricultural College Farm, Bapatla to assess the impact of integrated nutrient management (INM) on yield and economics of black rice. The experiment was laid out in randomized block design with eight treatments and four replications. The results revealed that application of 50% RDN through Neem cake + 50% RDN through inorganic sources resulted in highest grain yield (4795 kg ha-1) and straw yield (5699 kg ha-1) of black rice, whereas the grain yield (2990 kg ha-1) and straw yield (4022 kg ha-1) of black rice were noticed under 100% RDN through organic sources. The data suggested that harvest index was not significantly influenced by integrated nutrient management practices. The highest gross returns (`2,60,148 ha-1), net returns (` 1,68,321 ha-1) and B:C ratio (2.27) were recorded in treatment receiving 50% RDN through neem cake + 50% RDN through urea, 50% RDN through FYM + 50% RDN through urea, and 50% RDN through FYM + 50% RDN through urea respectively. The lowest gross return (` 1,57,545 ha-1), net return (` 36,354 ha-1) and the B:C ratio (0.30) were recorded with 100% RDN through organic sources.','Black Rice, INM, Gross Returns, Neem Cake, Net Returns, Urea','Based on the findings, it can be concluded that the combined application of 50% RDN through FYM + 50% RDN through urea showed greater impact pertaining to the economics point of view though the treatment receiving 50% RDN through Neem cake + 50% RDN through urea recorded significant results on overall crop yield when compared to the utilization of organic or inorganic sources solely. In contrast, the combined application of 50% RDN through vermicompost cake + 50% RDN through urea or 50% RDN through FYM + 50% RDN through urea as an alternative option has the ability to yield comparable results without adversely impacting the overall yield of black rice. However, this research needs further confirmation by carrying out the trail for few more seasons.','-','Sai Chandrika S., Prathibha Sree S., Jaffar Basha S. and Madhu Vani P. (2024). Yield and Economics of Black Rice as influenced by Integrated Nutrient Management Practices. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 16(2): 106-109.'),(8349,'55','A Note on Separation Theorem and Continuous Linear Functionals','Neha Phogat','Neha Phogat-8.pdf','',1,'In this article, we obtain a depiction of continuous linear functionals on a fuzzy quasi-normed space, and indicate the firm of all continuous linear functional forms a convex cone. Finally, we establish a theorem of separation and Hahn-Banach for convex subsets.','fuzzy quasi-normed space, continuous linear functional separation theorem','-','-','-'),(8350,'176','Biochemical Analysis of Early Blight Tolerance in Contrasting Genotypes of Tomato (Solanum lycopersicum L.)','Amarnath M., D. Satish, S. Sriram, K.S. Shivashankara, A.T. Sadashiva and K.V. Ravishankar ','Biochemical-Analysis-of-Early-Blight-Tolerance-in-Contrasting-Genotypes-of-Tomato-(Solanum-lycopersicum-L.)-Amarnath-M-22.pdf','',1,'Early blight (EB) is one of the most common and highly destructive tomato diseases. Alternaria solani is the fungus that causes EB disease in tomato. Warm and humid weather, especially during the growing season, favors the rapid spread of early blight which leads to foliage damage causing the development of dark lesions and reducing the overall photosynthetic capacity of the plant. Premature Leaf Senescence leads to reduced photosynthesis and premature leaf drop can result in fewer and smaller fruits, ultimately leading to a decrease in overall yield. Biochemical studies on tomato early blight involve the investigation of various biochemical aspects related to the interaction between the tomato plant and the pathogenic fungus A. solani. The objective of this study was to look at biochemical changes that occur during disease progression in three different tomato genotypes after artificial inoculation with the early blight pathogen A. solani. These genotypes differed significantly in the occurrence of disease on leaves at different time intervals. The biochemical analysis of total sugars, reducing sugars, enzymes, total phenolics (TP) and total flavonoids (TF) showed significant differences due to genotype, disease occurrence and interaction of these two factors. Based on the analysis of results obtained, we conclude that, content of these secondary metabolites could be used as a one of the parameters in the evaluation of degree of tolerance to early blight disease in tomato.','Alternaria solani, early blight, flavonoids, phenolics','The findings revealed that there were significant differences between resistant and susceptible genotypes. PPO, POX, and SOD are three genotypes studied for biochemical compounds such as phenols, flavonoids, total sugars, reducing sugars, and enzymes that play an important role in imparting resistance to tomato EB disease. The content of phenolic acids and flavonoids compounds increased at a faster rate in tolerant genotypes than in susceptible genotypes during disease progression. Furthermore, the genotypes had higher PPO, SOD, and POX activity, indicating antifungal activity as well as higher antioxidant enzyme activity, which confer tolerance. This phenomenon could be used to evaluate tomato resistance to EB.','-','Amarnath M., D. Satish, S. Sriram, K.S. Shivashankara, A.T. Sadashiva and K.V. Ravishankar (2024). Biochemical Analysis of Early Blight Tolerance in Contrasting Genotypes of Tomato (Solanum lycopersicum L.). Biological Forum – An International Journal, 16(2): 110-116.'),(8351,'176','Effect of Sulphur, Zinc and Boron on Growth, Yield and Economics of Watermelon [Citrullus lanatus (Thunb.)] in Vertisol of Northern Karnataka','Adarsh J.K., Basavaraj, Rajesh N.L., Chethan T. and Mahanthesh M.T. ','Effect-of-Sulphur-Zinc-and-Boron-on-Growth-Yield-and-Economics-of-Watermelon-[Citrullus-lanatus-(Thunb.)]-in-Vertisol-of-Northern-Karnataka-Adarsh-JK-Basavaraj-23.pdf','',1,'A field experiment was carried out at farmer’s field of Kamaknur village of Kalagi taluka in Kalaburagi district Karnataka to study the effect of sulphur, zinc and boron on growth, yield and economics of watermelon in Vertisol. The experiment consisted of ten treatments with different levels of sulphur, zinc and boron and laid out in randomized complete block design with three replications. The yield parameters were recorded at different growth stages. \r\nThe analyses of soil and plant samples had been completed with the aid of following the standard methods and procedures. It is observed that utility of 30 kg S ha-1, 1% Zn and 0.2% B at flower initiation stage (T10) has produced higher fruit length (35.26 cm), higher fruit girth (55.33 cm) with no cracking of fruits. It has resulted in higher number of fruits per plant (3.96) and higher fruit yield (65.31 t ha-1). It was profitable in terms of higher returns and B:C ratio (5.33) of watermelon production, however it was found to be on par with treatment receiving 20 kg S ha-1, 0.5% Zn and 0.1% B (T9). These results concludes that soil application of sulphur (20 kg ha-1) through bentonite sulphur @ 22 kg ha-1, foliar application of zinc (0.5 %) through zinc sulphate @ 2.5 kg ha-1 and foliar spray of boron (0.1 %) through solubor @ 0.5 kg ha-1 along with recommended dose of fertilizers was found superior in increasing the fruit yield and additionally progressed first-rate and economics of watermelon crop. \r\n','Soil application, sulphur, fruit yield, RDF','Primarily based on the outcomes acquired below present investigation, it can be concluded that soil application of sulphur (20 kg ha-1) through bentonite sulphur @ 22 kg ha-1, foliar application of zinc (0.5 %) through zinc sulphate @ 2.5 kg ha-1 and foliar spray of boron (0.1 %) through solubor @ 0.5 kg ha-1 along with recommended dose of fertilizers became determined superior not only in increasing the fruit yield however additionally improved quality and economics of watermelon crop. ','-','Adarsh J.K., Basavaraj, Rajesh N.L., Chethan T. and Mahanthesh M.T. (2024). Effect of Sulphur, Zinc and Boron on Growth, Yield and Economics of Watermelon [Citrullus lanatus (Thunb.)] in Vertisol of Northern Karnataka. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 16(2): 117-120.'),(8352,'159','Diversity Guided Antibacterial Bioactive Metabolites from Endophytic Fungi of Withania somnifera (L.) Dunal','Shubha Jagannath, Hanna Tayeng, Sushmita Iswary, Ashalatha K.S., Narasimhamurthy Konappa, Srinivas Chowdappa and Raveesha Haranahalli Ramaiah','Diversity-Guided-Antibacterial-Bioactive-Metabolites-from-Endophytic-Fungi-of-Withania-somnifera-(L.)-Dunal-Raveesha-Haranahalli-Ramaiah-130.pdf','',1,'Withania somnifera (L.) Dunal, is commonly acknowledged as ashwagandha or as Indian ginseng. It is used in Indian system of traditional medicine and it exhibits broad spectrum therapeutic properties. The sum of 165 endophytic fungi belonging to twenty-two different species was isolated from 250 tissue fragments analyzed. The Shannon and Simpson diversity indices were greater in stem trailed by root, leaf, flower and seed. The phytochemical analysis showed that 91% of endophytic fungal isolates produced terpenoids, 60% flavonoids, 42% steroids, 40% quinones and 54% tannins. Further, fungal isolates were analyzed by agar plug method for antibacterial activity; Talaromyces radicus (WSR2) and Aspergillus niger (WSR1) isolated from root of W. somnifera exhibited broad range activity against all the Gram-positive and Gram-negative pathogenic bacteria tested. These two endophytic fungi were subjected to molecular identification and sequences submitted to Gen Bank and accession numbers obtained Talaromyces radicus - MN099424.1, Aspergillus niger - MN099425.1. The GC-MS analysis of Talaromyces radicus (WSR2) ethyl acetate crude extract demonstrated the existence of eighteen compounds.','Endophytic fungi, Diversity, Bioactive metabolites, Withania somnifera','The present results revealed that the endophytic fungi associated with the medicinal plants are tremendous reservoirs of many bioactive metabolites which can be used for the betterment of mankind and nature. ','-','Shubha Jagannath, Hanna Tayeng, Sushmita Iswary, Ashalatha K.S., Narasimhamurthy Konappa, Srinivas Chowdappa and Raveesha Haranahalli Ramaiah (2023). Diversity Guided Antibacterial Bioactive Metabolites from Endophytic Fungi of Withania somnifera (L.) Dunal. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 15(6): 846-863.'),(8353,'176','The Influence of Auxins on the Rooting Process of Terminal Cuttings of Chrysanthemum (Dendranthema grandiflora)','Ratna Kumari N. and Bharathi N.','The-Influence-of-Auxins-on-the-Rooting-Process-of-Terminal-Cuttings-of-Chrysanthemum-(Dendranthema-grandiflora)-Ratna-Kumari-N-24.pdf','',1,'The research was conducted at the polyhouse in the Department of Horticulture, Agriculture College, Bapatla. A Completely Randomized Design (CRD) with 13 treatments, each replicated three times, was used. The effects of different auxins at various concentrations varied significantly among the treatments. Terminal cuttings of Chrysanthemum treated with IBA at 250 ppm followed by NAA at 200 ppm showed the longest shoot (11.98 cm), earliest rooting (5.07 days), longest root (7.71 cm), maximum rooting percentage (100%), and survival percentage (100%).','Chrysanthemum, terminal cuttings, auxins, rooting percentage, survival percentage','In conclusion, based on the aforementioned results and discussions, it can be concluded that IBA at 250 ppm is the most effective for early root emergence, highest root number, rooting percentage, and greater survival percentage, with NAA at 200 ppm being the next best treatment for terminal cuttings of chrysanthemum.','-','Ratna Kumari N. and Bharathi N. (2024). The Influence of Auxins on the Rooting Process of Terminal Cuttings of Chrysanthemum (Dendranthema grandiflora). Biological Forum – An International Journal, 16(2): 121-123.'),(8354,'57','Flow Characteristics in Constricted Arteries: A Comprehensive Review','Neha Phogat','Flow Characteristics in Constricted Arteries A Comprehensive Review-Neha Phogat-35.pdf','',1,'This study comprehensively explores the physical principles governing blood flow and pressure distribution within the vascular system. The paper explains fundamental fluid mechanics principles relevant to understanding blood flow in the cardiovascular system and discusses measurement techniques. Further, experimental techniques used to study blood flow in constricted arteries are examined, with a particular emphasis on computational fluid dynamics (CFD). In the end, the study explores the clinical significance of these hemodynamic changes, focusing on their role in disease pathogenesis, diagnostic assessment, and therapeutic interventions.','blood vessels, blood flow, computational fluid dynamics (CFD).','Altered blood flow in constricted arteries plays a pivotal role in cardiovascular disease pathogenesis, contributing to endothelial dysfunction, vascular remodelling, and atherosclerotic plaque formation. Disturbed flow patterns, characterized by turbulence and oscillatory shear stress, promote plaque vulnerability and increase cardiovascular risk. Diagnostic modalities, such as Doppler ultrasound and coronary angiography, facilitate the assessment of blood flow abnormalities and guide treatment decisions. Therapeutic interventions aim to restore normal blood flow patterns through pharmacological agents and revascularization procedures, with emerging approaches focusing on shear stress modulation and gene therapy to improve vascular function and reduce cardiovascular risk.','-','Neha Phogat (2019). Flow Characteristics in Constricted Arteries: A Comprehensive Review. International Journal on Emerging Technologies, 10(1): 239–241.');
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